bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of oral glucosamine hydrochloride and mucopolysaccharide protein in a rabbit model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Jeong Da‐Hee , Ullah H. M. Arif , Goo Moon‐Jung , Ghim Soong‐Gu , Hong Il‐Hwa , Kim Ah‐Young , Jeon Sun‐Min , Choi Myung‐Sook , Elfadl Ahmed K. , Chung Myung‐Jin , Lee Eun‐Joo , Kim Yong D. , Kim Jun‐Hyung , Kim Shin‐Yoon , Jeong Kyu‐Shik 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAimThe aim was to study whether oral glucosamine hydrochloride (GlcN.HCl) or mucopolysaccharide protein (MucoP) has a structure‐modifying effect on an anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) rabbit model of osteoarthritis (OA).MethodsOA was surgically induced in the right knees of rabbits by transection of the ACLT. The left knees served as a sham‐operated control. The animals were divided into four groups (n = 6 each): negative control (phosphate buffered saline, orally), positive control (oral celecoxib 10 mg/kg body weight/day), GlcN.HCl (oral 100 mg/kg/day) and MucoP (oral 100 mg/kg/day). Experimental animals were sacrificed after 8 weeks of treatment and the distal femur was removed for macroscopic examination, histological assessment, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) assay of the OA rabbits.ResultsOn gross morphology, severe lesions were observed in articular cartilage in the negative control group. In the GlcN.HCl and MucoP treatment groups, fibrillations and cartilaginous lesions were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased compared to the negative control group. In particular, degenerative changes in cartilage and chondrocyte cellularity were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in the positive control (celecoxib) group, GlcN.HCl treatment group and MucoP treatment group compared with the negative control group. TUNEL assay showed that apoptotic chondrocytes were significantly suppressed in the celecoxib group. Similar significant (P < 0.05) results were seen in the GlcN.HCl group and MucoP group but apoptosis of chondrocytes were high in the negative control group.ConclusionThese data suggest that the protective effects of GlcN.HCl and MucoP may play a useful role in the clinical treatment of OA.
Integrating genetic analysis of mixed populations with a spatially explicit population dynamics model
Authors: Whitlock Rebecca , Mäntyniemi Samu , Palm Stefan , Koljonen Marja‐Liisa , Dannewitz Johan , Östergren Johan 
Published: December 2017

AbstractInferring the dynamics of populations in time and space is a central challenge in ecology. Intra‐specific structure (for example genetically distinct sub‐populations or meta‐populations) may require methods that can jointly infer the dynamics of multiple populations. This is of particular importance for harvested species, for which management must balance utilization of productive populations with protection of weak ones.Here we present a novel method for simultaneous learning about the spatio‐temporal dynamics of multiple populations that combines genetic data with prior information about abundance and movement, akin to an integrated population modelling approach. We apply the Bayesian genetic mixed stock analysis to 17 wild and 10 hatchery‐reared Baltic salmon (S. salar) stocks, quantifying uncertainty in stock composition in time and space, and in population dynamics parameters such as migration timing and speed.The genetic data were informative about stock‐specific movement patterns, updating priors for migration path, timing and speed. Use of a population dynamics model allowed robust interpolation of expected catch composition at areas and times with no genetic observations. Our results indicate that the commonly used “equal prior probabilities” assumption may not be appropriate for all mixed stock analyses: incorporation of prior information about stock abundance and movement resulted in more plausible and precise estimates of mixture compositions in time and space.The model we present here forms the basis for optimizing the spatial and temporal allocation of harvest to support the management of mixed populations of migratory species.
Prenatal Alcohol Exposure Increases Histamine H3 Receptor‐Mediated Inhibition of Glutamatergic Neurotransmission in Rat Dentate Gyrus
Authors: Varaschin Rafael K. , Allen Nyika A. , Rosenberg Martina J. , Valenzuela C. Fernando , Savage Daniel D. 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundWe have reported that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE)‐induced deficits in dentate gyrus, long‐term potentiation (LTP), and memory are ameliorated by the histamine H3 receptor inverse agonist ABT‐239. Curiously, ABT‐239 did not enhance LTP or memory in control offspring. Here, we initiated an investigation of how PAE alters histaminergic neurotransmission in the dentate gyrus and other brain regions employing combined radiohistochemical and electrophysiological approaches in vitro to examine histamine H3 receptor number and function.MethodsLong‐Evans rat dams voluntarily consumed either a 0% or 5% ethanol solution 4 hours each day throughout gestation. This pattern of drinking, which produces a mean peak maternal serum ethanol concentration of 60.8 ± 5.8 mg/dl, did not affect maternal weight gain, litter size, or offspring birthweight.ResultsRadiohistochemical studies in adult offspring revealed that specific [3H]‐A349821 binding to histamine H3 receptors was not different in PAE rats compared to controls. However, H3 receptor‐mediated Gi/Go protein–effector coupling, as measured by methimepip‐stimulated [35S]‐GTPγS binding, was significantly increased in cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and dentate gyrus of PAE rats compared to control. A LIGAND analysis of detailed methimepip concentration–response curves in dentate gyrus indicated that PAE significantly elevates receptor–effector coupling by a lower affinity H3 receptor population without significantly altering the affinities of H3 receptor subpopulations. In agreement with the [35S]‐GTPγS studies, a similar range of methimepip concentrations also inhibited electrically evoked field excitatory postsynaptic potential responses and increased paired‐pulse ratio, a measure of decreased glutamate release, to a significantly greater extent in dentate gyrus slices from PAE rats than in controls.ConclusionsThese results suggest that a PAE‐induced elevation in H3 receptor‐mediated inhibition of glutamate release from perforant path terminals as 1 mechanism contributing the LTP deficits previously observed in the dentate gyrus of PAE rats, as well as providing a mechanistic basis for the efficacy of H3 receptor inverse agonists for ameliorating these deficits.
Gross anatomy of the heart of the alpaca (Vicugna pacos, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Pérez W. , Méndez V. , Vazquez N. , Navarrete M. , König H. E. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryThe available information about anatomical characteristics of the cardiovascular system of the alpaca (Vicugna pacos, Linnaeus 1758) is scarce. The general objective of this work was to describe its heart anatomy. We dissected six adult animals and five neonates. The heart of the alpaca was located in the middle mediastinum, with a craniocaudal extension from the third to the sixth rib. No ligament that connected the fibrous pericardium to the sternum or to the diaphragm was detected. In the right atrium, there was a developed crista terminalis and small pectinate muscles. In the right ventricle, the septomarginal trabecula was very large. From the proximities of the interventricular septum arose small septomarginal trabeculae that ended in carnous trabeculae of the septal wall. The left atrium included little developed pectinate muscles. On the left ventricle, both papillary muscles were bilobed. Two left septomarginal trabeculas were detected in this ventricle. The left subclavian artery was originated from the aortic arch separately from the brachiocephalic trunk, and bicarotid trunk was present. The other branches of the subclavian artery were similar to the domestic ruminants. The arterial supply of the heart was of the right type. In conclusion, the heart anatomy of alpaca and the irrigation of thoracic cavity were more similar to those of old world camels and different from domestic ruminants.
Histomorphological features of the tongue of the Eurasian teal (Anas crecca)
Authors: Marzban Abbasabadi B. , Sayrafi R. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryThis study presents the histomorphological features of tongue in Eurasian teal (Anas crecca); the smallest extant dabbling duck. Heads of four adult males and four adult females were used in this study. The results illustrate a tongue with three different parts; the apex with a lingual nail in ventral surface, the body with a lingual prominence in caudal part and some large and small conical papillae in lateral sides and the root, that was covered with many conical papillae in different sizes. Histological results revealed two types of keratinized and non‐keratinized epithelium covering parts of the tongue. The lingual salivary glands were observed in the lamina propria of the body and root of the tongue showed strongly periodic acid–Schiff (PAS)‐positive reaction. The yellow adipose tissue was located under the lamina propria on the body and root of the tongue. The filiform papillae between the conical papillae of the body were arranged densely. The sensory organs, which contain sensory receptors (Grandry and Herbst corpuscles), were located in the lamina propria of the body of the tongue. In conclusion, the anatomical and histological structure of the Eurasian teal’ tongue was generally similar to its family members such as domestic goose and duck but showed some differences that may be adoptions to the bird's habitat and mode of feeding.
Frailty prevalence and factors associated with the Frailty Phenotype and Frailty Index: Findings from the North West Adelaide Health Study
Authors: Thompson Mark Q , Theou Olga , Yu Solomon , Adams Robert J , Tucker Graeme R , Visvanathan Renuka 
Published: December 2017

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of frailty and associated factors in the North West Adelaide Health Study (2004–2006) using the Frailty Phenotype (FP) and Frailty Index (FI).MethodsFrailty was measured in 909 community‐dwelling participants aged ≥65 years using the FP and FI.ResultsThe FP classified 18% of participants as frail and the FI 48%. The measures were strongly correlated (r = 0.76, P < 0.001) and had a kappa agreement of 0.38 for frailty classification, with 37% of participants classified as non‐frail by the FP being classified as frail by the FI. Being older, a current smoker, and having multimorbidity and polypharmacy were associated with higher frailty levels by both tools. Female, low income, obesity and living alone were associated with the FI.ConclusionFrailty prevalence was higher when assessed using the FI. Socioeconomic factors and other health determinants contribute to higher frailty levels.
Treatment of severe recalcitrant pyoderma gangrenosum with ustekinumab
Authors: Low Zhi Mei , Mar Adrian 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAn increased expression of interleukin‐23 has been observed in patients with pyoderma gangrenosum, leading to the use of ustekinumab as a therapeutic option. We report the successful use of ustekinumab in three patients with treatment‐resistant pyoderma gangrenosum of varying clinical presentations.
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery: a New Zealand experience
Authors: Bloomfield Ian , Van Dalen Roelof , Lolohea Simione , Wu Linus 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundTransanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) is a proven alternative therapy to either radical surgery or endoscopic mucosal resection for rectal neoplasms. It has proven benefits with lower morbidity and mortality compared with total mesorectal excision, and a lower local recurrence rate when compared to endoscopic mucosal techniques.MethodsA retrospective data collection of TEMS procedures performed through Waikato District Health Board, New Zealand, from 2010 to 2015 was conducted. Supportive follow‐up data were sourced from patient records and from local centres around New Zealand.ResultsA total of 137 procedures were performed over the study period, with five being repeat procedures. Procedures were mostly performed for benign lesions (66.4%) with an overall complication rate of 15.3%, only five of which were Clavien–Dindo grade III (3.6%). Our local recurrence rate after resection of benign lesions was 5.1%.ConclusionOur data set demonstrates the TEMS procedure to be safe compared to radical resection (total mesorectal excision) for sessile rectal lesions. Close endoscopic follow‐up is recommended, especially for close or incomplete margins. Good therapeutic results can be obtained for appropriately selected early malignant lesions. TEMS provides better oncological results than endoscopic mucosal resection or transanal excision.
Prognostic significance of pre‐operative inflammatory markers in resected gallbladder cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Saqib Rukhtam , Pathak Samir , Smart Neil , Nunes Quentin , Rees Jonathan , Finch Jones Margaret , Poston Graeme 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundNeutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) have demonstrated good prognostic value in several cancers but their role in gallbladder cancer (GBC) remains unclear. The aim of this study is to systematically review the current literature to determine their role in predicting survival outcomes in GBC.MethodsUsing a pre‐specified inclusive search strategy MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases were used to identify studies describing survival in patients after GBC resection with high or low pre‐operative CRP, GPS or NLR. A proforma was used to extract study author and date, number of patients, age, gender, tumour stage, use of adjuvant therapy and primary outcome data.ResultsIn all, 46 studies were identified after initial screening with four studies reporting survival outcomes. All studies described a reduction in survival in patients with an elevated NLR, GPS or CRP. Three studies showed NLR to be an independent prognostic marker and one study additionally demonstrated that elevated CRP and GPS were associated with poorer survival.ConclusionsElevated pre‐operative inflammatory markers are inversely related to survival outcomes. They are relatively inexpensive, easy measurable parameters that could aid in the decision making process involved in the management of GBC. Sub‐stratification of groups utilizing inflammatory markers may help guide surgical strategy. However, these studies are retrospective and of low to moderate quality. High quality, prospective studies with well‐defined inclusion criteria and outcomes are needed to guide the role of inflammatory markers in the management of GBC.
Cosmetic tourism for breast augmentation: a systematic review
Authors: Brightman Louise , Ng Sze , Ahern Susannah , Cooter Rodney , Hopper Ingrid 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundThe medical tourism industry, and in particular cosmetic tourism for breast augmentation, is becoming an increasingly popular global phenomenon. The objective of this study is to determine the extent of medical literature and the patient risk profiles associated with cosmetic tourism for breast augmentation both locally and abroad. Data sources: OVID MEDLINE, OVID Embase, Cochrane Central and Proquest electronic databases.MethodsThe search was conducted through to April 2017. Studies pertaining entirely or partly to cosmetic tourism for breast augmentation were considered for inclusion. Exclusion criteria included non‐English articles, studies relating to non‐cosmetic or non‐implant breast augmentation, and studies that did not separately report on findings associated with breast augmentation abroad.ResultsWe identified 17 observational studies. Common destinations included Europe, South America and South East Asia. Infectious complications were common. Wound dehiscence and aesthetic dissatisfaction also featured. Catastrophic outcomes such as sepsis, intubation and ventilation, radical bilateral mastectomy, irreversible hypoxic brain injury and death were also reported. There were expectations that home country health systems would treat complications and provide non‐medically indicated revision procedures. The burden on home country health systems was evident from a public health perspective.ConclusionDetermining the extent of cosmetic tourism for breast augmentation, including outcomes and complications, will help to inform Australian patients who this seek procedure abroad. Furthermore, it will aid in better understanding the health system implications and may help to guide future research and public health interventions both locally and internationally.
Regulated Cell Death of Lymphoma Cells after Graded Mitochondrial Damage is Differentially Affected by Drugs Targeting Cell Stress Responses
Authors: Lombardo Tomás , Folgar Martín Gil , Salaverry Luciana , Rey‐Roldán Estela , Alvarez Elida M. , Carreras María C. , Kornblihtt Laura , Blanco Guillermo A. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractCollapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) is often considered the initiation of regulated cell death (RCD). Carbonyl cyanide 3‐chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) is an uncoupler of the electron transport chain (ETC) that facilitates the translocation of protons into the mitochondrial matrix leading to the collapse of the MMP. Several cell stress responses such as mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis and the ubiquitin proteasome system may differentially contribute to restrain the initiation of RCD depending on the extent of mitochondrial damage. We induced graded mitochondrial damage after collapse of MMP with the mitochondrial uncoupler CCCP in Burkitt's lymphoma cells, and we evaluated the effect of several drugs targeting cell stress responses over RCD at 72 hr, using a multiparametric flow cytometry approach. CCCP caused collapse of MMP after 30 min., massive mitochondrial fission, oxidative stress and increased mitophagy within the 5–15 μM low‐dose range (LDR) of CCCP. Within the 20–50 μM high‐dose range (HDR), CCCP caused lysosomal destabilization and rupture, thus precluding mitophagy and autophagy. Cell death after 72 hr was below 20%, with increased mitochondrial mass (MM). The inhibitors of mitophagy 3‐(2,4‐dichloro‐5‐methoxyphenyl)‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐thioxo‐4(1H)‐quinazolinone (Mdivi‐1) and vincristine (VCR) increased cell death from CCCP within the LDR, while valproic acid (an inducer of mitochondrial biogenesis) also increased MM and cell death within the LDR. The proteasome inhibitor, MG132, increased cell death only in the HDR. Doxycycline, an antibiotic that disrupts mitochondrial biogenesis, had no effect on cell survival, while iodoacetamide, an inhibitor of glycolysis, increased cell death at the HDR. We conclude that mitophagy influenced RCD of lymphoma cells after MMP collapse by CCCP only within the LDR, while proteasome activity and glycolysis contributed to survival in the HDR under extensive mitochondria and lysosome damage.
Expertise in physiological breech birth: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Walker Shawn , Parker Pam , Scamell Mandie 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBackgroundThe safety of vaginal breech birth depends on the expertise of birth attendants, yet the meaning of “expertise” remains unclear and subjectively defined. The objective of this study was to define expertise and the roles experts may play in expanding access to this service.MethodsWe performed an integrative analysis of two strands of data concerning expertise in physiological breech birth, including the following: survey data from a Delphi study involving 26 very experienced clinicians (mean experience = 135 breech births) and 2 service user representatives, and interviews from a grounded theory study of 14 clinicians more moderately experienced with physiological methods (5‐30 upright breech births). Data were pooled and analyzed using constant comparative methods.ResultsExpertise is defined by its ongoing function, the generation of comparatively good outcomes, and confidence and competence among colleagues. Although clinical experience is important, expertise is developed and expressed in social clinical roles, which expand as experience grows: clinician, mentor, specialist, and expert. To develop expertise within a service, clinicians who have an interest in breech birth should be supported to perform these roles within specialist teams.ConclusionsSpecialist breech teams may facilitate the development of expertise within maternity care settings. Evaluation of expertise based on enablement of women and colleagues, as well as outcomes, will potentially avoid the pitfalls of alienation produced by some forms of specialist authority.
Improving services for people with learning disabilities and dementia: Findings from a service evaluation exploring the perspectives of health and social care professionals
Authors: Chapman Melanie , Lacey Huma , Jervis Nicola 
Published: December 2017

Accessible summary

Dementia is an illness caused by damage to a person's brain.

People with learning disabilities, especially people with Down's Syndrome, are more likely to get dementia, and when they are younger.

We talked to people working in community learning disability teams to find out what they thought about services and support for people with learning disabilities and dementia and carers.

Screening and assessments mean that people get diagnosis and support more quickly and other problems are picked up.

More appropriate housing and support is needed so people can stay at home for longer.

Research needs to look at the best ways to support people with learning disabilities and dementia.

It is important to find ways to involve people with learning disabilities and dementia and carers in meetings about their support and future research.

AbstractBackgroundDementia prevalence rates are higher amongst people with learning disabilities than the general population. People with Down's syndrome are at even greater risk of developing dementia and of developing dementia at an earlier age. This study, conducted as part of a wider service evaluation, explored community learning disability team perspectives on screening, pathways, training, information and supports developed to improve services for people with learning disabilities and dementia.MethodsA focus group was held with health and social care professionals working in community learning disability services. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.ResultsThe dementia screening, pathways and processes had become embedded in practice, leading to a common framework, an efficient, multidisciplinary, proactive approach, earlier detection and diagnosis of dementia and identification of other health needs and issues. This avoided crisis situations supporting people to remain at home longer. Training and information were felt to improve care quality and reduce caregiver anxiety. People with learning disabilities and caregivers were involved to varying extents. External influences impacting on support included the availability, appropriateness, cost and effectiveness of different models of service provision.ConclusionsService developments have been made as a result of the findings which suggest that dementia pathways and supports improve service provision and outcomes for people with learning disabilities. It is important to develop the evidence base on the effectiveness of different service models for people with learning disabilities and dementia. Future studies need to gather views of people with learning disabilities and carers.