bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Visual acuity and microperimetric mapping of lesion area in eyes with inflammatory cystoid macular oedema
Authors: Munk Marion R. , Kiss Christopher G. , Huf Wolfgang , Montuoro Alessio , Sulzbacher Florian , Kroh Maria , Larsen Michael , Schmidt‐Erfurth Ursula 
Published: June 2013

Abstract.Purpose:  To evaluate the effect of fluid accumulation on local visual function in inflammatory cystoid‐macular‐edema (ICME).Methods:  This cross‐sectional study applied optical‐coherence‐tomography over a 12 × 12 fovea‐centered field in 50 patients with ICME and mapped the extent of fluid‐filled spaces in various retinal layers, of subretinal‐fluid and of diffuse‐edema. Regression analysis examined effect of planimetric fluid‐distribution on best‐corrected‐visual‐acuity (BCVA) and mean microperimetric‐sensitivity.Results:  BCVA decreased with increasing central‐neuroretinal‐thickness (r = 0.52, p = 0.001), total central‐retinal‐thickness, including subneuroretinal‐fluid (r = 0.41, p = 0.006), total cystoid‐and‐diffuse edema‐area (r = 0.35, p = 0.036) and cystoid inner‐nuclear‐layer area (r = 0.39, p = 0.02). Mean retinal‐sensitivity decreased with increasing diffuse edema‐area (r = −0.86, p < 0.0001), total cystoid‐and‐diffuse edema‐area (r = −0.54, p = 0.001), cystoid inner‐nuclear‐layer area (r = −0.46, p = 0.008) and cystoid ganglion‐cell‐layer area (r = −0.6, p = 0.049), central‐neuroretinal‐thickness (r = −0.42, p = 0.028) and total central‐retinal‐thickness (r = −0.34, p = 0.039). In multivariate‐analyses BCVA was best described by central‐neuroretinal‐thickness, duration of edema, total cystoid‐and‐diffuse edema‐area and cystoid inner‐nuclear‐layer area (R2 = 0.5, p = 0.002). Mean retinal‐sensitivity was best described by diffuse edema‐area, total cystoid‐and‐diffuse edema‐area and central‐neuroretinal‐thickness (R2 = 0.75, p < 0.0001). Subretinal‐fluid area and cystoid outer‐nuclear/Henle’s layer area had no effect on either BCVA or microperimetry.Conclusions:  Thickening of the neurosensory‐fovea, not subfoveal‐fluid, had major impact on both BCVA and retinal‐sensitivity. The extent of edema in inner retinal layers also had major impact on both of these two functional parameters. Visual‐impairment seems to differ depending on the layers involved, thus different types of fluid accumulation may potentially be given varying treatment priorities.
Culture, role and group work: A social network analysis perspective on an online collaborative course
Authors: Stepanyan Karen , Mather Richard , Dalrymple Roger 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThis paper discusses the patterns of network dynamics within a multicultural online collaborative learning environment. It analyses the interaction of participants (both students and facilitators) within a discussion board that was established as part of a 3‐month online collaborative course. The study employs longitudinal probabilistic social network analysis (SNA) to identify the patterns and trends within the network. It conjectures and tests a set of hypotheses concerning the tendencies towards homophily/heterophily and preferential attachment. The paper presents identified interaction network patterns in relation to cultural differences. It also evaluates network dynamics by considering participant roles and group work in the course under study. Results of social network analyses are reported along with measures of statistical confidence in findings. The potential for extending exploratory SNA methods and visualisation techniques in educational research are discussed here.
Morphogenesis of peri‐implant mucosa revisited: an experimental study in humans
Authors: Tomasi Cristiano , Tessarolo Francesco , Caola Iole , Wennström Jan , Nollo Giandomenico , Berglundh Tord 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimTo apply a novel human model to evaluate the morphogenesis of the mucosal attachment to implants.Material and methodsTwenty one patients receiving implant‐supported single‐tooth replacement were enrolled in this study. After implant installation, a custom‐designed experimental abutment was connected to the implant. Soft tissue biopsies representing 2, 4, 8 or 12 weeks of healing were collected by the use of a circular cutting device and prepared for histological analysis.ResultsThe soft tissue biopsies were retrieved, preserved and processed with a technique that was safe and reproducible. The results from the histological analysis in regards to dimensional and qualitative changes in the mucosa over time were consistent with those reported from animal experiments. At 8 weeks, the soft tissue dimension was about 3.6 mm and included a barrier epithelium of 1.9 mm and a connective tissue portion of 1.7 mm. Similar dimensions were found at 12 weeks.ConclusionIt is suggested that the new human model provides advantages in terms of cost‐effectiveness in research as well as from ethical aspects and should be considered as an alternative to pre‐clinicalin vivostudies in animals.
Strategies for the prevention of postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease
Authors: Yamamoto T. , Watanabe T. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimTo review the optimal strategy to prevent recurrence of Crohn's disease (CD) after surgery, with particular emphasis on the risk factors that predict postoperative recurrence, methods of monitoring for recurrence and medications used to prevent postoperative recurrence.MethodMEDLINE and the Cochrane Library were searched for clinical trials and meta‐analyses that studied postoperative recurrence and prophylactic medications in CD.ResultsThe most significant factor that predicted postoperative recurrence was patient smoking status. Smokers had an increased risk of recurrence (odds ratio = 2.15; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.42–3.27). Similarly, perforating CD appeared to be associated with a higher recurrence rate compared with nonperforating CD (hazard ratio = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.16–1.93). The optimal monitoring strategy for postoperative recurrence has yet to be established. Nonetheless, ileocolonoscopy is considered to be the gold standard. Noninvasive imaging techniques including contrast ultrasonography and capsule endoscopy appear to be useful for postoperative monitoring. A number of meta‐analyses found that mesalazine, nitroimidazole antibiotics and purine analogues (azathioprine/6‐mercaptopurine) significantly reduced the risk of postoperative recurrence when compared with placebo. Additionally, recent randomized controlled trials have suggested that an early intervention with infliximab is likely to prevent recurrence after ileocolonic resection. Likewise, in prospective studies, biological therapy (infliximab/adalimumab) reduced clinical and endoscopic CD activity in patients with early endoscopic recurrence after surgery.ConclusionAlthough additional evidence is necessary, endoscopic monitoring and treatment step‐up should be used to prevent postoperative recurrence of CD.
Two weeks of reduced‐volume sprint interval or traditional exercise training does not improve metabolic functioning in sedentary obese men
Authors: Skleryk J. R. , Karagounis L. G. , Hawley J. A. , Sharman M. J. , Laursen P. B. , Watson G. 
Published: June 2013

AimsTo investigate the effects of short‐term, reduced‐volume sprint interval training (SIT) compared to traditional exercise recommendations (TER) in sedentary obese men.MethodsSixteen subjects [37.8 ± 5.8 years; body mass index (BMI) 32.8 ± 4.7 kg/m2] were randomly allocated to 2 weeks of either SIT (6 sessions of 8–12 × 10 s sprints) or TER [10 sessions of 30 min at 65% peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak)] cycle exercise. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA), homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity (HOMA–IR), body composition and VO2peak were assessed at baseline and approximately 72 h after the final training bout. Skeletal muscle biopsy samples were also obtained before and 72 h after training and analysed for AS160 phosphorylation and COX II, COX IV, GLUT‐4, Nur77 and SIRT1 protein expression.ResultsNo changes in BMI, body composition, VO2peak, glucose, insulin, NEFA and HOMA–IR were observed after training, either within or between groups. Skeletal muscle markers of glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function also remained unaltered after 2 weeks of exercise training.ConclusionsOur findings show that 2 weeks of reduced‐volume SIT or TER did not elicit any measurable metabolic adaptations in sedentary obese men. Further work is needed to determine the minimal amount of exercise required for short‐term adaptations in this population.
Evaluations and the Forgetfulness of Pedagogical Relations: Remarks on Educational Authority
Authors: Thompson Christiane 
Published: June 2013

AbstractIn this essay, Christiane Thompson addresses the question of evaluative practices, particularly student evaluation of teaching (SET), and their effects with respect to pedagogical relations in the university setting. In the first part of the essay, Thompson draws on Michel Foucault's analysis of power to show how university teaching has come to be defined according to notions of obligation, accountability, and assurance. The forgetfulness of pedagogical relations that results from the increasing use of SET prompts Thompson to rethink the significance of pedagogical relations in the second part of the essay. Referring to the notion of “educational authority” and Foucault's framework of power, Thompson argues that education is about the continuous re‐institution of pedagogical relation to the other. In the final section, Thompson reflects upon the professor's “authority” in terms of constituting a “community of inquiry”: specifically, the seminar is interpreted as a pedagogical setting that implies a different “being‐with” than SET suggests. She concludes by considering what possibilities and limitations the seminar setting offers and how we can discuss this issue (by means of evaluative practice).
Three dimensional, radiosteriometric analysis (RSA) of equine stifle kinematics and articular surface contact: A cadaveric study
Authors: Halley S. E. , Bey M. J. , Haladik J. A. , Lavagnino M. , Arnoczky S. P. 
Published: June 2013

SummaryReasons for performing studyStudies examining the effect of stifle joint angle on tibial rotation, adduction–abduction angle and articular contact area are lacking.ObjectivesTo test the hypothesis that tibial rotation, adduction–abduction angle and articular contact area change with stifle joint angle.Study designDescriptive study of normal kinematics and articular contact patterns of the equine stifle through the functional range of motion using 3 dimensional (3D) radiosteriometric analysis (RSA) and equine cadaver stifles.MethodsMultiple, radiopaque markers were embedded in the distal femur and proximal tibia and sequential, biplanar x‐rays captured as the stifle was passively extended from 110° to full extension. Computer‐programmed RSA was used to determine changes in abduction–adduction and internal–external rotation angles of the tibia during stifle extension as well as articular contact patterns (total area and areas of high contact) through the range of motion.ResultsThe tibia rotated externally (P<0.001) as the stifle was extended. Tibial abduction occurred from 110–135° of extension (P<0.001) and tibial adduction occurred from 135° through full extension (P = 0.009). The centre of joint contact moved cranially on both tibial condyles during extension with the lateral moving a greater distance than the medial (P = 0.003). Articular contact area decreased (P = 0.001) in the medial compartment but not in the lateral compartment (P = 0.285) as the stifle was extended. The area of highest joint contact increased on the lateral tibial condyle (P<0.001) with extension but decreased (P = 0.001) on the medial tibial condyle.ConclusionsSignificant changes occur in tibial rotation, adduction–abduction angle and articular contact area of the equine stifle through the functional range of motion. Understanding the normal kinematics of the equine stifle and the relationship between joint positions and articular contact areas may provide important insight into the aetiology and location of common stifle joint pathologies (articular cartilage and meniscal lesions).
Comparison between cold plasma, electrochemotherapy and combined therapy in a melanoma mouse model
Authors: Daeschlein Georg , Scholz Sebastian , Lutze Stine , Arnold Andreas , von Podewils Sebastian , Kiefer Thomas , Tueting Thomas , Hardt Olaf , Haase Hermann , Grisk Olaf , Langner Sönke , Ritter Christoph , von Woedtke Thomas , Jünger Michael 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThe study was undertaken to compare antitumor efficacy of electrochemotherapy (ECT) with cold plasma therapy (CP) in a melanoma mouse model. After melanoma implantation into the flank of C57BL/6N mice, CP by two different plasma sources (APPJ and DBD) was applied directly to the tumor surface. ECT was performed with bleomycin intravenously at a field strength of 1000 V/cm without or combined with CP. Primary endpoints were tumor growth acceleration (TGA), daily volume progression (DVP) and survival after treatment. Both plasma sources as single treatment showed a significant TGA delay, which proved less effective than ECT. CP (APPJ) combined with ECT (ECJ) significantly improved per cent mouse survival, with significant superiority compared with ECT. Plasma therapy alone albeit less effective seems a potential alternative to ECT in patients with melanoma and can be applied manifold in a session without general anaesthesia. Accordingly, CP alone and combined with ECT may serve as new option in palliative skin melanoma therapy.
Comparison of circulating tumour necrosis factor superfamily cytokines in periodontitis patients undergoing supportive therapy: a case‐controlled cross‐sectional study comparing smokers and non‐smokers in health and disease
Authors: Nile Christopher J. , Sherrabeh Sakhr , Ramage Gordon , Lappin David F. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractBackgroundB‐cells are prominent immune cells in established periodontitis lesions. Tumour necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) cytokines play roles in supporting B‐cell function as well as bone re‐modelling. The influence of smoking on factors that support B‐cell function in periodontitis remains unclear.AimTo investigate plasma concentrations of TNF (TNSF1A), soluble receptor activator of nuclear‐factor Kappa‐B ligand (sRANKL/TNFSF11), a proliferation‐inducing ligand (APRIL/TNFSF13), B‐cell activating factor (BAFF/TNFSF13B) and Osteoprotegerin (OPG/TNFRSF11B) in smokers and non‐smokers with and without chronic periodontitisMaterials & MethodsPlasma concentrations of TNFSF and OPG were evaluated in 200 systemically healthy subjects divided into four groups: non‐smokers with periodontitis (n = 101), smokers with periodontitis (n = 55), healthy non‐smokers (n = 27) and healthy smokers (n = 17).ResultsPeriodontitis patients had significantly higher plasma sRANKL, TNF, APRIL and BAFF and lower OPG than healthy subjects (p < 0.01). TNF and sRANKL were significantly greater in smokers with periodontitis (p = 0.011, p = 0.001) and OPG concentrations significantly lower (p = 0.001), whereas APRIL or BAFF were little changed. Plasma APRIL, BAFF, sRANKL and TNF correlated with probing depth and clinical attachment loss.ConclusionTNFSF cytokines correlate with periodontitis disease severity. However, only TNF, sRANKL and OPG levels were altered by cigarette smoking. APRIL and BAFF appear as good indicators of disease severity.
Microsporidian Diversity in Soil, Sand, and Compost of the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Ardila‐Garcia Alex M. , Raghuram Nandini , Sihota Panela , Fast Naomi M. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractMicrosporidia are intracellular parasites considered to be ubiquitous in the environment. Yet the true extent of their diversity in soils, sand, and compost remains unclear. We examined microsporidian diversity found in the common urban environments of soil, sand, and compost. We retrieved 22 novel microsporidian sequences and only four from described species. Their distribution was generally restricted to a single site and sample type. Surprisingly, one novel microsporidian showed a wide distribution, and high prevalence, as it was detected in five different compost samples and in soil samples collected over 200 km apart. These results suggest that the majority of Microsporidia appear to have a narrow distribution. Our phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Microsporidia detected in this study include representatives from four of the five major microsporidian groups. Furthermore, the addition of our new sequences calls into question the cohesiveness of microsporidian clade II. These results highlight the importance of increasing our knowledge of microsporidian diversity to better understand the phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history of this important group of emerging parasites.
Worse outcome of sorafenib therapy associated with ascites and Child‐Pugh score in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Hwi Young , Park Joong‐Won , Joo Jungnam , Kim Hyoseok , Woo Sang Myung , Lee Woo Jin , Kim Chang‐Min 
Published: June 2013

AbstractBackground and AimThe outcomes of sorafenib therapy in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and impaired liver function remain unresolved. Although Child–Pugh (CP) classification is widely used for patient categorization, heterogeneity within a given CP class makes outcomes less predictable. The aim was to investigate the prognostic significance of CP score elements on the outcome of sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC and impaired liver function.MethodsOf 1385 consecutive patients with advanced HCC in our center between January 2007 and December 2010, we reviewed the medical records of 325 patients who received sorafenib monotherapy.ResultsMedian duration of sorafenib was 2.0 months (range 0.4–24.2) and median follow‐up was 4.9 months (range 0.5–43.4). Disease control rates were significantly higher in CP class A (CPA) than in CP class B (CPB) patients. Median overall survival (OS) was 5.8 months. Subgroups with different CP scores showed significantly different OS (months): CPA5, 8.4; CPA6, 5.1; CPB7, 3.5; CPB8–9, 2.6 (P < 0.001). The presence of ascites was a significant prognostic factor in CPB7 patients (hazard ratio 2.262; P = 0.016). OS of CPB7 patients without ascites was similar to that of CPA6 patients (4.6 months) and was significantly longer than that of CPB7 patients with ascites (2.5 months; P = 0.027). OS of CPB7 patients with ascites was similar to that of CPB8–9 patients.ConclusionsCP score was more important than CP class in predicting the outcome of sorafenib therapy in patients with advanced HCC. Among the CP score components, presence of ascites was a significant prognostic factor, especially in CPB7 patients.
AtFH16, an Arabidopsis Type II Formin, Binds and Bundles both Microfilaments and Microtubules, and Preferentially Binds to Microtubules
Authors: Wang Jiaojiao , Zhang Yi , Wu Jing , Meng Lei , Ren Haiyun 
Published: June 2013

AbstractFormins are well‐known regulators that participate in the organization of the actin cytoskeleton in organisms. The Arabidopsis thaliana L. genome encodes 21 formins, which can be divided into two distinct subfamilies. However, type II formins have to date been less well characterized. Here, we cloned a type II formin, AtFH16, and characterized its biochemical activities on actin and microtubule dynamics. The results show that the FH1FH2 structure of AtFH16 cannot nucleate actin polymerization efficiently, but can bind and bundle microfilaments. AtFH16 FH1FH2 is also able to bind and bundle microtubules, and preferentially binds microtubules over microfilaments in vitro. In addition, AtFH16 FH1FH2 co‐localizes with microtubules in onion epidermal cells, indicating a higher binding affinity of AtFH16 FH1FH2 for microtubules rather than microfilaments in vivo. In conclusion, AtFH16 is able to interact with both microfilaments and microtubules, suggesting that AtFH16 probably functions as a bifunctional protein, and may thus participate in plant cellular processes.
Impact of new gestational diabetes mellitus criteria on stillbirth: A regional population‐based study in Japan
Authors: Kodama Yuki , Sameshima Hiroshi , Ohashi Masanao , Ikenoue Tsuyomu 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to determine whether the new gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) criteria increase the prevalence of diabetes‐mellitus‐related stillbirths by using a regional population‐based approach.Material and MethodsA retrospective, population‐based study was conducted to assess 114 036 deliveries from 2000 to 2010 in Miyazaki, Japan. During this period 318 stillbirths occurred after 22 weeks of gestation. Of these cases, 236 were examined to determine the cause of death. The remaining 82 cases were not fully investigated. In particular, we investigated the prevalence of pregestational diabetes mellitus and GDM among the stillbirths. We also applied new GDM criteria to evaluate the impact of these factors on stillbirth.ResultsOf the 236 stillbirths, 47% were due to an explainable cause. Application of previous criteria indicated two cases of pregestational diabetes mellitus and three GDM cases in the remaining unexplained stillbirths. By applying new GDM criteria, the GDM count increased to 17.ConclusionsIn an unselected population in southern Japan, the application of new GDM criteria resulted in a 5.7‐fold increase (from 2.4% [3/126] to 13.5% [17/126]) in the number of GDM cases in unexplained stillbirths. Even in women with a mild degree of GDM, proper management of both mother and fetus could reduce the number of unexplained stillbirths.
Low‐dose acetylsalicylic acid and gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding – a cohort study of the effects of proton pump inhibitor use patterns
Authors: Hedberg J. , Sundström J. , Thuresson M. , Aarskog P. , Oldgren J. , Bodegard J. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the associations between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) usage patterns and risk of severe gastrointestinal events in patients treated with low‐dose acetylsalicylic acid (LDA).Design and settingA nationwide cohort study in Sweden.PatientsAll Swedish residents ≥40 years of age, without cancer and receiving LDA treatment (≥80% adherence for 365 days between 2005 and 2009) were identified in the Swedish Prescription Register. Continuous PPI use was defined as >60 of 90 days covered by daily PPI doses and further divided into high (≥80%) or moderate (<80) adherence. All other PPI use was defined as intermittent use.Main outcome measuresThe risk of a combined end‐point of gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding was analysed using Cox proportional hazard models. We also investigated risk of >45 days of LDA treatment interruption.ResultsDuring a median follow‐up of 2.5 years, 7880 of 648 807 (1.2%) LDA‐treated patients experienced gastrointestinal events. In multivariable‐adjusted models, both intermittent‐PPI and no‐PPI use were associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding compared with continuous PPI use with a high level of adherence [hazard ratio (HR) 1.83 (95% CI 1.66–2.02) and 1.14 (95% CI 1.05–1.23), respectively]. Amongst continuous PPI users, moderate adherence also increased the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding [HR 1.22 (95% CI 1.07–1.40)]. The risk of LDA treatment interruption was higher with intermittent PPI use [HR 1.16 (95% CI 1.14–1.19)] than continuous PPI use with high adherence.ConclusionsIn this large cohort of LDA users, intermittent PPI use was associated with higher risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding and interrupted LDA treatment, compared with continuous PPI use.