bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Activation of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptors in the nucleus accumbens attenuates cocaine seeking in rats
Authors: Hernandez Nicole S. , O'Donovan Bernadette , Ortinski Pavel I. , Schmidt Heath D. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractRecent evidence indicates that activation of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptors reduces cocaine‐mediated behaviors and cocaine‐evoked dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, no studies have examined the role of NAc GLP‐1 receptors in the reinstatement of cocaine‐seeking behavior, an animal model of relapse. Here, we show that systemic infusion of a behaviorally relevant dose of the GLP‐1 receptor agonist exendin‐4 penetrated the brain and localized with neurons and astrocytes in the NAc. Administration of exendin‐4 directly into the NAc core and shell subregions significantly attenuated cocaine priming‐induced reinstatement of drug‐seeking behavior. These effects were not due to deficits in operant responding or suppression of locomotor activity as intra‐accumbal exendin‐4 administration had no effect on sucrose‐seeking behavior. To determine the effects of GLP‐1 receptor activation on neuronal excitability, exendin‐4 was bath applied to ex vivo NAc slices from cocaine‐experienced and saline‐experienced rats following extinction of cocaine‐taking behavior. Exendin‐4 increased the frequency of action potential firing of NAc core and shell medium spiny neurons in cocaine‐experienced rats while no effect was observed in saline controls. In contrast, exendin‐4 did not affect the frequency or amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents or alter the paired‐pulse ratios of evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents. These effects were not associated with altered expression of GLP‐1 receptors in the NAc following cocaine self‐administration. Taken together, these findings indicate that increased activation of GLP‐1 receptors in the NAc during cocaine abstinence increases intrinsic, but not synaptic, excitability of medium spiny neurons and is sufficient to reduce cocaine‐seeking behavior.
Prognostic significance of interim 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography volumetric parameters in metastatic or recurrent gastric cancer
Authors: Lee Suk‐young , Seo Hyo Jung , Kim Sungeun , Eo Jae Seon , Oh Sang Cheul 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAimTo evaluate the prognostic role of interim analysis of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) volumetric parameters in patients with recurrent or metastatic advanced gastric cancer (AGC) treated with fluoropyrimidine‐based palliative chemotherapy.MethodsForty‐four patients who underwent baseline and interim PET/CT scanning during palliative chemotherapy were analyzed retrospectively. Initial and change of metabolic parameters (MP) – metabolic tumor volume (MTV), tumor lesion glycolysis (TLG) and maximum and mean standardized uptake values (SUV) were measured with PET/CT. Metabolic change was measured by ∆MP (%) = (MPinterim − MPinitial)/MP initial × 100. Independent t‐test was employed to compare values of initial, interim and change of metabolic parameters between each response group. Log‐rank test was employed for univariate analysis, and multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model to determine independently significant prognostic factors.ResultsReduced percentage values of maximum and mean SUV on interim PET/CT and initial values of volumetric parameters (MTV and TLG) were significant predicting factors to response to fluoropyrimidine‐based palliative chemotherapy. The decreased percentage values of metabolic parameters as well as maximum and mean SUV with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve determined cut‐off points were significant prognostic factors for overall survival and progression‐free survival in univariate and multivariate analyses.ConclusionMeasurement of metabolic decrease of volumetric parameters by interim PET/CT analysis is useful to determine the prognosis of patients with recurrent or metastatic AGC.
Place of death in the Snowy Monaro region of New South Wales: A study of residents who died of a condition amenable to palliative care
Authors: Rainsford Suzanne , Glasgow Nicholas J. , MacLeod Rod D. , Neeman Teresa , Phillips Christine B. , Wiles Robert B. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the place of death of residents in a rural region of New South Wales.DesignCross‐sectional quantitative study using death data collected from local funeral directors (in person and websites), residential aged‐care facilities, one multipurpose heath service and obituary notices in the local media (newspapers/radio).SettingSnowy Monaro region (New South Wales Australia).ParticipantsResidents, with advanced frailty or one of 10 conditions amenable to palliative care, who died between 1 February 2015 and 31 May 2016.Main outcome measurePlace of death.ResultsOf 224 deaths in this period, 138 were considered amenable to palliative care. Twelve per cent of these deaths occurred in a private residence, 38% in the usual place of residence and 91% within the region.ConclusionMost rural residents with conditions amenable to palliative care died in the region. Most did not die in their usual place of residence. Further qualitative work is needed to determine palliative care patients’ and family caregivers’ preferences for, and the importance placed on, place of death. While there may be a need to support an increase in home deaths, local rural hospitals and residential aged‐care facilities must not be overlooked as a substitute for inpatient hospices.
Intravenous dexamethasone for prophylaxis of postoperative nausea and vomiting after administration of long‐acting neuraxial opioids: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Grape S. , Usmanova I. , Kirkham K. R. , Albrecht E. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryLong‐acting neuraxial opioids provide excellent analgesia after surgery, but are associated with higher rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Dexamethasone effectively prevents postoperative nausea and vomiting after general anaesthesia, but its value in patients receiving long‐acting neuraxial opioids is undetermined. Therefore, the objective of this meta‐analysis was to assess the prophylactic anti‐emetic efficacy of intravenous (i.v.) dexamethasone in this population. The study methodology followed the PRISMA statement guidelines. The primary outcome was the need for rescue anti‐emetics during the first 24 postoperative hours, analysed according to the dose of dexamethasone (low‐dose 2.5–5.0 mg; intermediate dose 6.0–10.0 mg), timing of administration (beginning or end of surgery) and route of long‐acting opioid administration (intrathecal or epidural). Additionally, the rates of complications (restlessness, infection, hyperglycaemia) were sought. Thirteen trials were identified, representing a total of 1111 patients. When compared with placebo, intravenous dexamethasone reduced the need for rescue anti‐emetics (risk ratio (95%CI) 0.44 (0.35–0.56); I2 = 43%; p < 0.00001; quality of GRADE evidence: moderate), without differences between dexamethasone doses (p for sub‐group difference = 0.67), timing of administration (p for sub‐group difference = 0.32) or route of long‐acting opioid (p for sub‐group difference = 0.10). No patients developed infection or restlessness among trials that sought these complications. No trial measured blood glucose levels. In conclusion, there is enough evidence to state that intravenous dexamethasone provides effective anti‐emetic prophylaxis during the first 24 postoperative hours in patients who receive long‐acting neuraxial opioids.
Mechanical Evaluation of Tracheal Grafts on Different Scales
Authors: Aoki Fabio Gava , Moriya Henrique Takachi 
Published: December 2017

AbstractTissue engineered (or bioengineered) tracheas are alternative options under investigation when the resection with end‐to‐end anastomosis cannot be performed. One approach to develop bioengineered tracheas is a complex process that involves the use of decellularized tissue scaffolds, followed by recellularization in custom‐made tracheal bioreactors. Tracheas withstand pressure variations and their biomechanics are of great importance so that they do not collapse during respiration, although there has been no preferred method of mechanical assay of tracheas among several laboratories over the years. These methods have been performed in segments or whole tracheas and in different species of mammals. This article aims to present some methods used by different research laboratories to evaluate the mechanics of tracheal grafts and presents the importance of the tracheal biomechanics in both macro and micro scales. If bioengineered tracheas become a reality in hospitals in the next few years, the standardization of biomechanical parameters will be necessary for greater consistency of results before transplantations.
Clinical characteristics of maternal mental health service users treated with mood stabilizing or antipsychotic medication
Authors: Møller‐Olsen Charmian , Friedman Susan Hatters , Prakash Chandni , North Abigail 
Published: December 2017

AbstractIntroductionWe aimed to investigate the characteristics of pregnant women who required either mood stabilizer or antipsychotic treatment. These women requiring such treatment are likely to be more mentally unwell and thus carry a higher burden of comorbidities associated with poor pregnancy outcomes.MethodsThis retrospective review investigated the common characteristics of pregnant women who were prescribed with antipsychotics or mood stabilizers under a major city's public maternal mental health service. Demographic data, pregnancy factors and prenatal care, stressors and support, concurrent medical and substance abuse problems, and ongoing maternal mental health issues were recorded.ResultsMost pregnancies were unplanned. Commonly, social stressors, medical problems, and substance use were identified. The most common diagnosis was bipolar disorder.DiscussionPregnant women requiring treatment with mood stabilizers or antipsychotics are a complex clinical population, with multiple risk factors for negative pregnancy outcome, before even considering the potential risk from psychotropic agents and mental illness itself. Obtaining reliable data about substance use and medication compliance remains problematic.
Letter: biologics treatment in Crohn's disease and risk of bowel resection—what about the patients who stop anti‐TNF therapy?
Authors: Ribaldone D. G. , Saracco G. , Astegiano M. , Pellicano R. 
Published: December 2017

Linked ContentThis article is linked to Eberhardson et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14224 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14398.
Editorial: alfapump—an alternative to large‐volume paracentesis for patients with refractory ascites? Authors’ reply
Authors: Stirnimann G. , De Gottardi A. 
Published: December 2017

Linked ContentThis article is linked to Stirnimann et al and Macdonald and Jalan papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14331 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14390.
The clinical course of late‐life bipolar disorder, looking back and forward
Authors: Dols Annemiek , Korten Nicole , Comijs Hannie , Schouws Sigfried , van Dijk Moniek , Klumpers Ursula , Beekman Aartjan , Kupka Ralph , Stek Max 
Published: December 2017

ObjectivesLittle is known about the course of late‐life bipolar disorder (LLBD). First, we studied patients with LLBD retrospectively with regard to age at first mood episode, onset polarity, predominant polarity and episode density and its associations with other clinical variables. Next, we examined prospectively the clinical course and its associated factors.MethodsData were used from a dynamic cohort (Dutch Older Bipolars [DOBi]) including 101 patients with LLBD (mean age of 68.9 years) at baseline in 2012, with 3‐year follow‐up measurements available for 64 of these patients. Retrospective course was assessed by diagnostic interviews, and at follow‐up polarity and duration for each consecutive episode were noted. Linear and logistic analyses were performed to assess associations between relevant factors and outcome.ResultsThe mean age at the first episode was 33.0 years. Onset polarity was depression in 44.6% of patients, with a predominant polarity of depression in 47.5%. At 3‐year follow‐up, 37.5% of patients reported at least one mood episode, mainly depression. Life events, somatic illness, use of lithium and other factors were not associated with recurrence during the 3‐year follow‐up.DiscussionA relapse rate of 37.5% in 3 years is high, considering that LLBD patients generally have a longer history of disease and were receiving care and medication. The course of LLBD can provide important information on which clinical factors are associated with recurrence. Further phenotyping may reveal unique predictors for outcome, and both course specifiers and clinical variables should be included.
Associations between and development of cool and hot executive functions across early childhood
Authors: O'Toole Sarah , Monks Claire P. , Tsermentseli Stella 
Published: December 2017

This study explored the development of cool and hot EF skills across early childhood. Children 4.5‐ to 5.5‐years‐old (N = 80) completed performance‐based assessments of cool EF (inhibition and working memory), hot EF (affective decision‐making and delay of gratification) at three time points across 12 months. Cool EF task performance was consistently correlated with early childhood, but hot EF task performance was not. Performance on cool EF tasks showed significant improvements over early childhood, but performance on hot EF tasks did not. During early childhood performance on delay of gratification and affective decision‐making tasks may therefore be unrelated and show limited sensitivity to improvement.
Statement of contribution

What is already known about cool and hot EF

An EF model has been proposed that distinguishes between cool‐cognitive and hot‐affective skills.

Findings regarding whether cool and hot EF are distinct in early childhood are mixed.

Hot EF skills, compared to cool EF abilities, are thought to develop more gradually.

What the present study adds to understanding of cool and hot EF

Performance on cool EF tasks and hot delay of gratification were associated in early childhood.

Performance on hot EF tasks was not related, meaning they do not tap the same underlying factor.

Age related gains in hot EF were not found, but 5‐year‐olds had better hot EF than 4‐year‐olds.
Informal digital learning of English and second language vocabulary outcomes: Can quantity conquer quality?
Authors: Lee Ju Seong 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThis study investigated to what extent quantity (frequency/amount of time) and quality (diversity) of informal digital learning of English (IDLE) activities was conducive to second language (L2) vocabulary outcomes. Data (n = 77) were gathered quantitatively and qualitatively through a questionnaire, English vocabulary tests (ie, measuring receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge), and a semistructured interview from three universities in an English as a foreign language Korean context. Contrary to earlier findings, this study found that quantity of IDLE was not related to vocabulary scores. It revealed that the quality of IDLE was significantly, positively associated with vocabulary outcomes. These results lead us to the conclusion that the frequent practice of IDLE activities may not automatically guarantee successful L2 vocabulary gains. Rather, engagement with varied types of IDLE activities that combines both form‐ and meaning‐focused language learning is essential for achieving L2 vocabulary acquisition.
Mechanical responses of the mechanosensitive unstructured domains in cardiac titin
Authors: Pang Si Ming , Le Shimin , Yan Jie 
Published: December 2017

Background InformationTitin is one of the three main filaments in cardiac sarcomere. Besides a chain of Ig domains, cardiac titin also contains a proline (P), glutamate (E), valine (V), lysine (K) (PEVK) domain and a cardiac‐specific N2B domain, both are largely unstructured. While they are believed to be involved in the elastic (PEVK and N2B) and the trophic (N2B) functions of the heart, their mechanical responses in physiological level of forces remains poorly understood.ResultsIn order to gain understanding on their mechanical responses, we used magnetic tweezers to investigate their force responses from 1 to 30 pN. We confirmed that in vitro the PEVK domain is intrinsically disordered within the force range. Surprisingly, we discovered a mechanosensitive folded element in the disordered region of N2B, ∼84 amino acids in length, which has a large folding energy of approximately −10 kBT. Based on the force responses of PEVK and N2B domains, as well as an approximated force‐dependent unfolding and refolding rates of titin Ig domains, we show that the tension in cardiac titin fluctuates within 5 pN during cardiac contraction and extension cycle using Gillespie simulation algorithm. Exceptionally, the simulation shows that deletion of N2B domain results in 10‐fold increase in peak force.ConclusionOur results highlight a critical role that N2B may potentially play in regulating tension on cardiac titin.SignificanceThe study provides new insights into the tension regulatory role of unstructured domains in the elastic function of the heart, which has broad implication in diastolic dysfunction and cardiac trophic mechanisms. In addition, the method can be applied to probing other unstructured mechanosensitive proteins/domains.
CNS high‐grade neuroepithelial tumor with BCOR internal tandem duplication: a comparison with its counterparts in the kidney and soft tissue
Authors: Yoshida Yuka , Nobusawa Sumihito , Nakata Satoshi , Nakada Mitsutoshi , Arakawa Yoshiki , Mineharu Yohei , Sugita Yasuo , Yoshioka Takako , Araki Asuka , Sato Yuichiro , Takeshima Hideo , Okada Masahiko , Nishi Akira , Yamazaki Tatsuya , Kohashi Kenichi , Oda Yoshinao , Hirato Junko , Yokoo Hideaki 
Published: December 2017

AbstractCentral nervous system high‐grade neuroepithelial tumors with BCOR alteration (CNS HGNET‐BCOR) are a recently reported rare entity, identified as a small fraction of tumors previously institutionally diagnosed as so‐called CNS primitive neuroectodermal tumors. Their genetic characteristic is a somatic internal tandem duplication in the 3′ end of BCOR (BCOR ITD), which has also been found in clear cell sarcomas of the kidney (CCSK) and soft tissue undifferentiated round cell sarcomas/primitive myxoid mesenchymal tumors of infancy (URCS/PMMTI), and these BCOR ITD‐positive tumors have been reported to share similar pathological features. In this study, we performed a clinicopathological and molecular analysis of six cases of CNS HGNET‐BCOR, and compared them with their counterparts in the kidney and soft tissue. Although these tumors had histologically similar structural patterns and characteristic monotonous nuclei with fine chromatin, CNS HGNET‐BCOR exhibited glial cell morphology, ependymoma‐like perivascular pseudorosettes and palisading necrosis, whereas these features were not evident in CCSK or URCS/PMMTI. Immunohistochemically, diffuse staining of Olig2 with a mixture of varying degrees of intensity, and only focal staining of GFAP, S‐100 protein and synaptophysin were observed in CNS HGNET‐BCOR, whereas these common neuroepithelial markers were negative in CCSK and URCS/PMMTI. Therefore, although CNS HGNET‐BCOR, CCSK and URCS/PMMTI may constitute a group of BCOR ITD‐positive tumors, only CNS HGNET‐BCOR has histological features suggestive of glial differentiation. In conclusion, we think CNS HGNET‐BCOR are a certain type of neuroepithelial tumor relatively close to glioma, not CCSK or URCS/PMMTI occurring in the CNS.
Changes in verbal and visuospatial working memory from Grade 1 to Grade 3 of primary school: Population longitudinal study
Authors: Nicolaou E. , Quach J. , Lum J. , Roberts G. , Spencer‐Smith M. , Gathercole S. , Anderson P. J. , Mensah F. K. , Wake M. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBackgroundAdaptive working memory training is being implemented without an adequate understanding of developmental trajectories of working memory. We aimed to quantify from Grade 1 to Grade 3 of primary school (1) changes in verbal and visuospatial working memory and (2) whether low verbal and visuospatial working memory in Grade 1 predicts low working memory in Grade 3.MethodThe study design includes a population‐based longitudinal study of 1,802 children (66% uptake from all 2,747 Grade 1 students) at 44 randomly selected primary schools in Melbourne, Australia. Backwards Digit Recall (verbal working memory) and Mister X (visuospatial working memory) screening measures from the Automated Working Memory Assessment (M = 100; SD = 15) were used to assess Grades 1 and 3 (ages 6–7 and 8–9 years) students. Low working memory was defined as ≥1 standard deviation below the standard score mean. Descriptive statistics addressed Aim 1, and predictive parameters addressed Aim 2.ResultsOne thousand seventy (59%) of 1802 Grade 1 participants were reassessed in Grade 3. As expected for typically developing children, group mean standard scores were similar in Grades 1 and 3 for verbal, visuospatial, and overall working memory, but group mean raw scores increased markedly. Compared to “not low” children, those classified as having low working memory in Grade 1 showed much larger increases in both standard and raw scores across verbal, visuospatial, and overall working memory. Sensitivity was very low for Grade 1 low working memory predicting Grade 3 low classifications.ConclusionAlthough mean changes in working memory standard scores between Grades 1 and 3 were minimal, we found that individual development varied widely, with marked natural resolution by Grade 3 in children who initially had low working memory. This may render brain‐training interventions ineffective in the early school year ages, particularly if (as population‐based programmes usually mandate) selection occurs within a screening paradigm.
Acceptability and benefit of rectal irrigation in patients with low anterior resection syndrome: a qualitative study
Authors: McCutchan G. M. , Hughes D. , Davies Z. , Torkington J. , Morris C. , Cornish J. A. ,   the LARRIS Trial Management Group
Published: December 2017

AbstractAimLow anterior resection syndrome (LARS) following rectal cancer surgery impairs the patient's quality of life (QoL). Rectal irrigation has been demonstrated to be effective for anterior resection syndrome but many surgeons do not suggest it as a treatment. This feasibility study aimed to explore treatment acceptability and the benefit of rectal irrigation in patients who developed LARS following an anterior resection for rectal cancer.MethodThis was a qualitative study involving semi‐structured interviews. Twenty‐one patients diagnosed with LARS following anterior resection for rectal cancer in a single tertiary centre were offered rectal irrigation as a treatment option. Qualitative interviews (n = 17) were conducted at baseline to explore the patient‐reported impact of LARS on QoL, treatment acceptability and factors influencing the decision to accept/decline treatment. Follow‐up interviews were carried out at 6 months for the treatment group only (n = 12), to assess its practicality and impact on QoL.ResultsQualitative interview findings suggest that rectal irrigation is an acceptable method of treatment for LARS. Participants who perceived their symptoms to be more severe or poorly controlled were most likely to consider rectal irrigation as a treatment option. Patients who completed treatment reported improvements in their QoL, the ability to control the time of defaecation being the key benefit.ConclusionClinicians should consider offering rectal irrigation as a treatment option to patients presenting with bowel dysfunction following anterior resection as it can improve symptoms. Patients who perceive that their symptoms are severe are more likely to consider treatment.