bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cathepsin-Mediated Alterations in TGFß-Related Signaling Underlie Disrupted Cartilage and Bone Maturation Associated With Impaired Lysosomal Targeting
Authors: Flanagan-Steet Heather , Aarnio Megan , Kwan Brian , Guihard Pierre , Petrey Aaron , Haskins Mark , Blanchard Frederic , Steet Richard 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT

Hypersecretion of acid hydrolases is a hallmark feature of mucolipidosis II (MLII), a lysosomal storage disease caused by loss of carbohydrate-dependent lysosomal targeting. Inappropriate extracellular action of these hydrolases is proposed to contribute to skeletal pathogenesis, but the mechanisms that connect hydrolase activity to the onset of disease phenotypes remain poorly understood. Here we link extracellular cathepsin K activity to abnormal bone and cartilage development in MLII animals by demonstrating that it disrupts the balance of TGFß-related signaling during chondrogenesis. TGFß-like Smad2,3 signals are elevated and BMP-like Smad1,5,8 signals reduced in both feline and zebrafish MLII chondrocytes and osteoblasts, maintaining these cells in an immature state. Reducing either cathepsin K activity or expression of the transcriptional regulator Sox9a in MLII zebrafish significantly improved phenotypes. We further identify components of the large latent TGFß complex as novel targets of cathepsin K at neutral pH, providing a possible mechanism for enhanced Smad2,3 activation in vivo. These findings highlight the complexity of the skeletal disease associated with MLII and bring new insight to the role of secreted cathepsin proteases in cartilage development and growth factor regulation. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Depletion of hormones and antimicrobials in cattle manure using thermophilic anaerobic digestion
Authors: Withey Jonathan M , Mugo Samuel M , Zhou Ting , Rosser Patrick M , Gao Tiejun 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDThe fate and effect of hormone and antimicrobial residues in the manure of therapeutically treated cattle is of considerable concern because of the adverse effects of environmental loading of these chemicals. The objective of this study was to determine the depletion of tylosin (TYL), chlortetracycline (CTC), sulfamethazine (SMZ) and megestrol (MEG) using thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD).RESULTSQuantitative methods using HPLC‐DAD‐MS/MS analysis were developed to monitor the hormone and antimicrobials, spiked into manure obtained from unmedicated cattle. These manure samples were incubated for a 28‐day period, during which hormone and antimicrobial depletion, and biogas production, was determined. Significant depletion of TYL, CTC, SMZ and MEG was demonstrated using TAD. Both TYL and CTC underwent complete depletion, while SMZ and MEG were each 80% depleted by the 28th day of incubation. The presence of antimicrobials had no negative effects on process stability and caused no significant reduction in total methane production.CONCLUSIONThis process has demonstrated value in reducing the hormone and antimicrobial load to the environment, while not compromising economic value of the biogas production, and allowing use of post‐digested biosolids as a regenerated fertilizer. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Metabolomic analysis can detect the composition of pasta enriched with fibre after cooking
Authors: Beleggia Romina , Menga Valeria , Platani Cristiano , Nigro Franca , Fragasso Mariagiovanna , Fares Clara 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBACKGROUNDSeveral studies have demonstrated that metabolomics has a definite place in food quality, nutritional value, and safety issues. The aim of the present study was to determine and compare the metabolites in different pasta samples with fibre, and to investigate the modifications induced in these different kinds of pasta during cooking, using a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics approach.RESULTSDifferences were seen for some of the amino acids, which were absent in control pasta, while were present both in the commercially available high‐fibre pasta (samples A–C) and the enriched pasta (samples D–F). The highest content in reducing sugars was observed in enriched samples in comparison with high‐fibre pasta. The presence of stigmasterol in samples enriched with wheat bran was relevant. Cooking decreased all of the metabolites: the high‐fibre pasta (A–C) and Control showed losses of amino acids and tocopherols, while for sugars and organic acids, the decrease depended on the pasta sample. The enriched pasta samples (D–F) showed the same decreases with the exception of phytosterols, and in pasta with barley the decrease of saturated fatty acids was not significant as for tocopherols in pasta with oat. Principal component analysis of the metabolites and the pasta discrimination was effective in differentiating the enriched pasta from the commercial pasta, both uncooked and cooked.CONCLUSIONSThe study has established that such metabolomic analyses provide useful tools in the evaluation of the changes in nutritional compounds in high‐fibre and enriched pasta, both before and after cooking. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
The disease recurrence rate after the canal wall up or canal wall down technique in adults
Authors: Kerckhoffs Kelly G. P. , Kommer Maarten B. J. , van Strien Thom H. L. , Visscher Simeon J. A. , Bruijnzeel Hanneke , Smit Adriana L. , Grolman Wilko 
Published: September 2015

Objectives/HypothesisTo review which type of cholesteatoma surgery, canal wall up (CWU) or canal wall down (CWD), provides the lowest risk for residual and/or recurrent disease in adults with primary acquired cholesteatoma.Data SourcesPubMed, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science.Study DesignWe selected articles comparing CWU with CWD, reporting on disease recidivism (combined residual and recurrent disease) or independent residual or disease recurrence rates. We included studies with a moderate to high relevance.ResultsOur search yielded 2,060 articles. We selected seven studies that carried a moderate risk of bias. Six studies described higher disease recidivism after the CWU procedure [16.7–61.0%] compared to the CWD technique [0–13.2%]. Four studies showed statistical significant difference (P < .05). One study showed opposite results: recidivism was found in 7.8% CWU and in 22.1% CWD cases (P < .001). Studies showed CWU recidivism more likely to be residual disease, whereas CWD recidivism tended to be recurrent disease.ConclusionThe majority of included studies showed CWU to result in more disease recidivism compared to the CWD technique in adult patients with a primary acquired cholesteatoma. If recidivism risk is the most important factor to consider a certain surgical technique, we recommend application of the CWD procedure. However, many additional factors in patient care will define the best treatment decision, such as residual hearing and access to health care. Our recommendations are based on Level II evidence, which underlines the need for future high‐level evidence studies. Laryngoscope, 126:980–987, 2016
The efficacy of gabapentin/pregabalin in improving pain after tonsillectomy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Hwang Se Hwan , Park In Joon , Cho Young Jin , Jeong Yeon Min , Kang Jun Myung 
Published: September 2015

Objectives/HypothesisGabapentin and pregabalin are useful for treating neuropathic pain because of their antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic properties, which may be beneficial in managing acute postoperative pain. The goal of this meta‐analysis was to perform a systematic review of the literature on the effect of gabapentinoids on postoperative pain following tonsillectomy, and its adverse effects in patients.Data Sources: MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane database.MethodsTwo authors independently searched the databases from their inception of article collection to May 2015. Included in the analysis were studies that compared preoperative gabapentinoid administration (gabapentinoids groups) with a placebo or pain control agent (control group) during a 24‐hour postoperative period, the outcomes of interest being postoperative pain intensity; rescue analgesic consumption; or adverse effects such as sedation, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, and headache.ResultsThe pain score reported by the physician during the first 8 hours, as well as the need for analgesics during 24 hours postoperatively, were significantly decreased in the gabapentinoids group versus the control group. Additionally, there was no significant difference between gabapentinoids and control groups for adverse effect during 24 hours postoperatively. In the subgroup analyses (gabapentin and pregabalin) regarding pain‐related measurements, two subgroups showed the similar effect on reducing the postoperative pain severity.ConclusionPreoperative administration of gabapentinoids could provide pain relief without side effects in patients undergoing tonsillectomy. However, considering the insufficient evaluation of efficacy of gabapentinoids according to the high heterogeneity in some parameters, further clinical trials with robust research methodology should be conducted in order to confirm the results of this study.Level of EvidenceNA. Laryngoscope, 126:357–366, 2016
Epley and Semont maneuvers for posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Yun , Wang Wei , Zhang Ao‐bo , Bai Xue , Zhang Shuang 
Published: September 2015

Objectives/HypothesisUsing network meta‐analysis, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of Epley and Semont maneuvers as treatment options for posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.Study DesignNetwork meta‐analysis.MethodsRandomized controlled studies with a Jadad score ≥ 3 that used an Epley or Semont maneuver in posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients were analyzed in this project. The following efficacy outcomes included 1‐week recovery rate and end of study recovery rate. Recurrence rate was used to assess the safety of each treatment.ResultsOf 589 articles, 12 studies that enrolled 999 posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients were selected. The pooled analysis revealed that the Epley maneuver was as efficacious as the Semont maneuver, in both the 1‐week recovery rate and end of study recovery rate (odds ratio [OR] = 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.48‐7.00; OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 0.47‐7.20), and had a similar recurrence rate (OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.33‐4.4). These two techniques were both better than sham‐controlled treatment in the two efficacy indicators. No difference was observed in recurrence rate for treatments.ConclusionsThe Epley maneuver was similar to the Semont maneuver in both efficacy and safety for posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in short‐term effects, and both were superior to the sham‐controlled treatment.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 126:951–955, 2016
WACODI: A generic algorithm to derive the intrinsic color of natural waters from digital images
Authors: Novoa Stéfani , Wernand Marcel , van der Woerd Hendrik Jan 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThis document presents the WAter COlor from Digital Images (WACODI) algorithm, which extracts the color of natural waters from images collected by low‐cost digital cameras, in the context of participatory science and water quality monitoring. SRGB images are converted to the CIE XYZ color space, undergoing a gamma expansion and illumination correction that includes the specular reflection at the air‐water interface. The XYZ values obtained for each pixel of the image are converted to chromaticity coordinates and Hue color angle (αw), which is a measure of color. Based on the distributions of αw in sub‐sections of the image, an approximation of the intrinsic color of the water is obtained. This algorithm was applied to images acquired in 2013 during two field campaigns in Northern Europe. The Hue color angles were derived from hyperspectral measurements above and below the surface, carried out simultaneously with image acquisition. When for each station a specific illumination correction was applied, based on the corresponding hyperspectral data, a good fit (r2 = 0.93) was obtained between the image and the spectra Hue color angles (slope = 0.98, intercept = −0.03). When a more generic illumination correction was applied to the same images, based on the sky conditions at the time of the image acquisition (either overcast or sunny), a slightly inferior, but still satisfactory fit resulted. Results on the application of the WACODI algorithm to the first images collected by the public via the smartphone application or “APP,” developed within the European FP7 Citclops, are presented at the end of this study.
Conference Tutorials as Educational Tool in Polymer Science: The POLYCHAR Conference and Short Course
Authors: Hess Michael 
Published: September 2015

SummaryTutorials in combination with a scientific conference are very useful tools in the education of advanced students, young scientists and newcomers in polymer science. The annual POLYCHAR Conference (World Forum for Advanced Materials) and its Short Course in Polymer Characterization are presented and discussed as an example of a successful combination.
Clinical features of patients with Myasthenia gravis from the Henan province, China
Authors: Gao Feng , Zhao Xue , Zhang Jing , Cui Xinzheng , Zhang Yingna , Li Qianru , Liu Pingping , Fang Hua , Du Ying , Zhang Qingyong , Yang Junhong , Zhang Yunke 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTIntroductionMyasthenia gravis (MG) occurs globally, and many studies have indicated that there are regional differences in epidemiology, biomarkers, and prognosis of MG.MethodsA total of 478 patients with MG who visited hospitals in the Henan Province between January 2010 and February 2014 were included. Age, gender, age at onset, serum antibody, thymus pathology, treatment information, and Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) classification were assessed.ResultsCompared with previous reports from other areas, we found some differences in MG patients from Henan. The proportion of childhood MG in our study was lower than other reports of Oriental patients with MG. There seems to be an association between onset age, muscle involvement, and acetylcholine receptor antibody levels. Thymectomy improved the symptoms in 78.5% of thymectomy‐treated patients.ConclusionsThese differences are likely related to geographical, environmental, and ethnic differences. Understanding these differences will help us to define more specific treatment. Muscle Nerve 53: 711–716, 2016
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties of Oral Voriconazole in Patients with Invasive Fungal Infections
Authors: Wang Taotao , Xie Jiao , Wang Yan , Zheng Xiaowei , Lei Jin'e , Wang Xue , Dong Haiyan , Yang Qianting , Chen Limei , Xing Jianfeng , Dong Yalin 
Published: September 2015

Study ObjectivesTo assess the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) properties of voriconazole and to investigate the relationship between PK/PD parameters and the efficacy of a fixed‐dose oral regimen in the treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFIs).DesignProspective and observational PK/PD study.SettingA university‐affiliated medical center.PatientsFifteen hospitalized patients with proven IFIs who were treated with oral voriconazole for at least 2 weeks.MethodsWe investigated the PK/PD properties of voriconazole using a noncompartmental analysis in 15 patients.ResultsMarked interpatient variation in voriconazole pharmacokinetic properties was noted including peak plasma concentrations (median 2.31 mg/L, range 1.06–4.01 mg/L), 12‐hour area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUCτ) (median 21.18 hr mg/L, range 7.71–42.07 hr mg/L), ratio of the unbound drug AUC over 24 hours (fAUC24) divided by the minimum inhibitory concentration (fAUC24:MIC; median 62.61, range 6.48–415.30), and the free trough plasma concentration (Cmin) divided by the MIC (fCmin:MIC; median 1.81, range 0.46–15.52). There was a good correlation between voriconazole Cmin and AUCτ (R2 = 0.805). Voriconazole therapy was effective in 66.7% of patients (10/15). No significant difference was observed with regard to successful clinical response between the patients with a fAUC24:MIC and fCmin:MIC values higher than 25 and higher than 1 (10/12 vs 10/13, respectively; χ2 = 1.61, p=0.688).ConclusionThere is substantial interpatient variability in the PK/PD properties of voriconazole. fAUC24:MIC values higher than 25 and fCmin:MIC values higher than 1 may predict clinical response in patients with IFIs. Designing an optimal dosage regimen based on individual PK/PD properties will improve the efficacy in patients with IFIs.
Atomoxetine for Orthostatic Hypotension in an Elderly Patient Over 10 Weeks: A Case Report
Authors: Hale Genevieve M. , Brenner Michael 
Published: September 2015

Several nonpharmacologic strategies for orthostatic hypotension exist including avoiding large carbohydrate‐rich meals; limiting alcohol consumption; maintaining adequate hydration; adding salt to foods; and using compression stockings, tilt‐table exercises, or abdominal binders. If these fail, however, only limited evidence‐based pharmacologic treatment options are available including the use of fludrocortisone, midodrine, pyridostigmine, and droxidopa as well as pseudoephedrine, ocetreotide, and atomoxetine. This report discusses a case of atomoxetine use for 10 weeks in an elderly patient with primary orthostatic hypotension. An 84‐year‐old man with long‐standing primary orthostatic hypotension presented to our ambulatory cardiology pharmacotherapy clinic after several unsuccessful pharmacologic therapies including fludrocortisone, midodrine, and pyridostigmine. Nonpharmacologic strategies were also implemented. Atomoxetine was initiated, and the patient showed gradual improvements in symptoms and blood pressure control over the course of 10 weeks. Our data suggest that low‐dose atomoxetine is an effective and safe agent for symptom improvement and blood pressure control in elderly patients with primary orthostatic hypotension.
Rational design of methacrylate monomers containing oxadiazole moieties for single‐layer organic light emitting devices
Authors: Zdyrko Bogdan , Bandera Yuriy , Tsyalkovsky Volodymyr , Huebner Christopher F. , Shetzline Jamie A. , Rungta Parul , Roeder Ryan D. , Tonkin Charles , Creager Stephen E. , Foulger Stephen H. 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTMethacrylate derived monomers functionalized with pendant oxadiazole moieties were synthesized and copolymerized with carbazole containing monomers to form polymers with electron and hole transporting fragments in the same molecule. Substituents on the oxidazole moiety were varied with the purpose of bandgap tuning and performance optimization when employed in single‐layer organic light emitting devices (OLED). Quantum mechanical calculations of the HOMO‐LUMO levels of the oxidazole derivatives were used to down‐select promising candidates for chemical synthesis and testing in single‐layer OLEDs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 1663–1673
The impact of surgery for vulval cancer upon health‐related quality of life and pelvic floor outcomes during the first year of treatment: a longitudinal, mixed methods study
Authors: Jones Georgina L. , Jacques Richard M. , Thompson Joanne , Wood Hilary J. , Hughes Jane , Ledger William , Alazzam Mo'iad. , Radley Stephen C. , Tidy John A. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo measure the long‐term impact of surgical treatment for vulval cancer upon health‐related quality of life and pelvic floor outcomes during the first year of therapy.MethodsProspective, longitudinal, mixed‐methods study. Twenty‐three women aged >18 years with a new diagnosis of vulval cancer were recruited. The EORTC QLQ C30, SF‐36 and an electronic pelvic floor assessment questionnaire (ePAQ‐PF) were administered at baseline (pre‐treatment) and 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post‐treatment. Mixed effects repeated measures models (all adjusted for age and BMI) were used to investigate changes over time and differences between cancer stage. Qualitative interviews were carried out with 11 of the women and analysed using a thematic approach.ResultsMean age was 59.9 years (SD = 15.3; range = 23.8–86.6 yrs). Mean BMI was 30.0 (SD = 4.5; range = 24.4–38.2). Sixteen women had early (Stage 1 to 2B), and seven women had advanced stage disease (Stage 3 to 4B). Questionnaire scores revealed that physical and social functioning, fatigue, pain and general sex life were significantly worse at 12 months than pre‐treatment (p = < 0.05). Qualitative analysis revealed multiple treatment side effects which were perceived as severe and enduring. Women with advanced vulval cancer had significantly worse SF‐36 mental health scores at 12 months compared to women with early stage disease (p = 0.037).ConclusionsSurgery for vulval cancer has long‐term implications which can be persistent 12 months post‐treatment. High rates of morbidity relating to lymphoedema and sexual function re‐enforce the need for specialist clinics to support women who suffer these complications. © 2015 The Authors. Psycho‐Oncology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Let's talk about sex after cancer: exploring barriers and facilitators to sexual communication in male cancer survivors
Authors: Seidler Zac E. , Lawsin Catalina R. , Hoyt Michael A. , Dobinson Katherine A. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractObjectiveChanges to sexuality are a primary concern amongst cancer survivors, leading to psychological distress and impacting long‐term quality of life. Effective sexual communication has been found to be critical in improving sexual satisfaction post‐treatment. However, research suggests that many men struggle to disclose sexual concerns and preferences. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the common barriers and facilitators to sexual communication in male cancer survivors (MCSs).MethodsSeventeen MCSs participated in semi‐structured telephone interviews, which were transcribed and coded using Grounded Theory methodology.ResultsThe emergent theory described that those MCSs with lower quality sexual communication experienced diminished perceived masculinity following cancer‐related sexual dysfunction. These feelings of inadequacy were compounded by inadequate partner support. Contrastingly, participants reporting effective sexual communication expressed the importance of a stable self‐esteem and flexible partner support.ConclusionsThis study challenges the notion that men naturally struggle with intimate dyadic communication and suggests that adequate partner support and a stable sense of self can mitigate MCSs' communicative behaviour, subsequently bolstering self‐esteem. Future research should more broadly explore the diverse experiences of MCSs to enhance the efficacy of psychosexual interventions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.