bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A case‐control study: are urological procedures risk factors for the development of infective endocarditis?
Authors: Mohee Amar R. , West Robert , Baig Wazir , Eardley Ian , Sandoe Jonathan A.T. 
Published: November 2013

ObjectiveTo evaluate the association between urological procedures and the development of infective endocarditis (IE), as there are case‐reports linking urological procedures to IE but evidence of a causal relationship is lacking and no major guidelines advise prophylaxis to prevent development of IE during transurethral urological procedures. No case‐control study has been undertaken to examine the relationship between urological procedures and the development of IE.Patients and MethodsRetrospective evaluation of the IE database at our institution.The population consisted of patients diagnosed with enterococcal, staphylococcal, Streptococcus bovis‐group and oral streptococcal IE over a 10‐year period.Possible risk factors for the development of IE, including urological procedures were collected.A case‐control design was used and univariable and multivariable analyses were carried out. Missing data was accounted for using the multiple imputations method.ResultsWe included 384 patients with IE.There was a statistical association between the development of enterococcal IE and preceding urological procedures (odds ratio 8.21, 95% confidence interval 3.54–19.05, P < 0.05).Increasing age and being an intravenous drug user were also associated with enterococcal IE.Haemodialysis and the presence of an intracardiac device were associated with the development of coagulase‐negative staphyloccal IE.ConclusionThis is the first study to show a statistical association between urological procedures and the development of IE.The bacteraemia leading to IE may be a result of the urological procedures or a consequence of the underlying urological pathology causing recurrent subclinical bacteraemias.
Prognostic value of microRNA expression pattern in upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Izquierdo Laura , Ingelmo‐Torres Mercedes , Mallofré Carmen , Lozano Juan José , Verhasselt‐Crinquette Marie , Leroy Xavier , Colin Pierre , Comperat Eva , Roupret Morgan , Alcaraz Antonio , Mengual Lourdes 
Published: November 2013

ObjectiveTo examine the microRNA (miRNA) expression pattern in tumour samples from patients with progressing and non‐progressing upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) in order to identify putative miRNAs that may be used as prognostic markers.Patients and MethodsWe conducted a multicentre, retrospective study of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples from 150 patients with UTUC who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy.Global miRNA expression patterns were analysed in 18 selected samples from patients with UTUC using TaqMan arrays.The differential expression of five key miRNAs was validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in an independent cohort of 132 samples from patients with UTUC.Models to predict tumour progression and cancer‐specific survival that included miRNA expression patterns were developed by Cox regression analysis.ResultsTwenty‐six miRNAs were found to be aberrantly expressed between samples from patients with progressing and non‐progressing UTUC and five of these were selected for subsequent studies.The regression analysis identified tumour stage and miR‐31 and miR‐149 expression as independently associated with tumour progression and tumour stage and miR‐149 expression as independently associated with cancer‐specific survival.The risk scores derived from these miRNA models were able to discriminate two groups with a highly significantly different probability of tumour progression (hazard ratio [HR] 4.78; P < 0.001) and death (HR 276; P = 0.004).ConclusionsThere is a differential miRNA expression pattern between patients with progressing and non‐progressing UTUC.The identification of new miRNAs associated with a high probability of tumour recurrence and cancer‐specific survival in patients with UTUC and their combination in a robust, easy‐to‐use and reliable algorithm may help tailor treatment and surveillance strategies in these patients.
Myosin Va is required for the transport of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) granules
Authors: Lindsay Andrew J. , McCaffrey Mary W. 
Published: November 2013

Background InformationFragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) is a selective RNA binding protein that functions as a translational inhibitor. It also plays a role in directing the transport of a subset of mRNAs to their site of translation and several recent reports have implicated microtubule motor proteins in the transport of FMRP–messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) granules in neurons. Earlier work reported the association of the actin‐based motor protein myosin Va with FMRP granules.ResultsHere, we follow up on this finding and confirm that myosin Va does in fact associate with FMRP and is required for its correct intracellular localisation. FMRP is concentrated in the perinuclear region of myosin Va‐null mouse melanoma cells which contrasts starkly with the evenly distributed punctate pattern observed in wild‐type cells. Similarly, overexpression of a dominant‐negative mutant of myosin Va results in the accumulation of FMRP in large aggregate‐like structures. FRAP experiments demonstrate that FMRP is largely immobile in the absence of myosin Va.ConclusionsCombining these data, we propose a model in which myosin Va and kinesin play key roles in the assembly and subsequent transport of FMRP granules along microtubules to the periphery of the cell. Myosin Va captures the complex onto peripheral actin structures and mediates the local delivery of the FMRP granule to the site of mRNA translation.
Regulation of PKD1‐mediated Golgi to cell surface trafficking by Gαq subunits
Authors: Coria A. Soledad , Masseroni M. Luján , Díaz Añel Alberto M. 
Published: November 2013

Background InformationHeterotrimeric GTP‐binding proteins play a key role in cell trafficking regulation. Above all, specific Gβγ subunits have been shown to be a major component of a signal transduction pathway, which also involves phospholipases C (PLC), protein kinases C (PKC) and D (PKD), whose main function is to regulate transport between Golgi and plasma membrane. It was the involvement of PLC which led us to study the role of the other member of this G protein family, the α subunits, in the regulation of membrane fission at the Golgi apparatus.ResultsAmong constitutive active (QL) variants of different G protein α subunit sub‐families, only GαqQL subunits were able to induce Golgi fragmentation, a phenotype that mainly reflects a membrane fission increase at this organelle. This phenotype was not observed with a GαqQL palmitoylation mutant, showing the need for a membrane‐bounded subunit. Besides, GαqQL‐dependent Golgi fission was blocked by specific PLC and PKC inhibitors, and in the presence of a PKD1‐kinase dead variant. In addition, GαqQL was the only α subunit capable of inducing PKD1 phosphorylation. Finally, Vesicular Stomatitis Virus thermosensitive mutant glycoprotein (VSVG tsO45) transport assays have demonstrated that GαqQL acts directly on Golgi membranes to regulate trafficking between this organelle and plasma membrane.ConclusionsAll these results indicate Gαq subunits for the first time as a regulator of PKD‐mediated intracellular trafficking between Golgi apparatus and plasma membrane, opening new perspectives in the understanding of internal trafficking regulation by external signals through G protein‐coupled receptors.
Using Genetic Profiles of African Forest Elephants to Infer Population Structure, Movements, and Habitat Use in a Conservation and Development Landscape in Gabon
Authors: EGGERT L. S. , BUIJ R. , LEE M. E. , CAMPBELL P. , DALLMEIER F. , FLEISCHER R. C. , ALONSO A. , MALDONADO J. E. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractConservation of wide‐ranging species, such as the African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), depends on fully protected areas and multiple‐use areas (MUA) that provide habitat connectivity. In the Gamba Complex of Protected Areas in Gabon, which includes 2 national parks separated by a MUA containing energy and forestry concessions, we studied forest elephants to evaluate the importance of the MUA to wide‐ranging species. We extracted DNA from elephant dung samples and used genetic information to identify over 500 individuals in the MUA and the parks. We then examined patterns of nuclear microsatellites and mitochondrial control‐region sequences to infer population structure, movement patterns, and habitat use by age and sex. Population structure was weak but significant, and differentiation was more pronounced during the wet season. Within the MUA, males were more strongly associated with open habitats, such as wetlands and savannas, than females during the dry season. Many of the movements detected within and between seasons involved the wetlands and bordering lagoons. Our results suggest that the MUA provides year‐round habitat for some elephants and additional habitat for others whose primary range is in the parks. With the continuing loss of roadless wilderness areas in Central Africa, well‐managed MUAs will likely be important to the conservation of wide‐ranging species.Utilización de Perfiles Genéticos de Elefantes Africanos para Inferir su Estructura Poblacional, Movimientos y Uso del Hábitat en un Paisaje con Conservación y Desarrollo en Gabón Resumenfgs
Relationship between frequency of surveillance colonoscopy and colorectal cancer prevention
Authors: Kawamura Takuji , Oda Yasushi , Murakami Yoshitaka , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Matsuda Koji , Kida Mitsuhiro , Tanaka Kiyohito , Kawahara Yosuke , Koizumi Wasaburo , Yasuda Kenjiro , Tajiri Hisao 
Published: November 2013

Background and AimThe impact of frequent colonoscopy on colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between frequency of surveillance colonoscopy and CRC prevention.MethodsFrom April 2010 to April 2011, patients who underwent surveillance colonoscopy after screening and polypectomy in four Japanese endoscopy centers were enrolled in this multicenter historical cohort study. Patients were classified into the following two groups according to the findings of past colonoscopy: a low‐risk group (no neoplasia or 1–2 cumulative adenomas <10 mm) and an increased‐risk group (advanced adenoma or ≥3 cumulative adenomas). The relationship between colonoscopy frequency within the previous 5 years and the prevalence of advanced neoplasia in each group was analyzed using multiple logistic regression.ResultsThe final analysis included 2391 patients. In the low‐risk group, the odds ratios for advanced adenoma in patientsundergoing moderately frequent colonoscopy (2–3 times within the previous 5 years), and frequent colonoscopy (≥4 times within 5 years) were 0.33 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14–0.81) and 0.21 (95% CI, 0.02–1.60), respectively, compared with infrequent colonoscopy (once or not at all within 5 years). In the increased‐risk group, the respective odds ratios were 0.48 (95% CI, 0.28–0.83) and 0.28 (95% CI, 0.12–0.64).ConclusionsAlthough frequent colonoscopy provides benefits against advanced adenoma, the optimal benefit was achieved at 2–3 times. With very frequent colonoscopy (i.e. ≥4 times within 5 years), the additional risk reduction for advanced adenoma was relatively small.
Pilot study of ‘Scissorhands’ technique for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection using novel gel and endoscopic scissors in a porcine model (with video)
Authors: Khashab Mouen A. , Saxena Payal , Sharaiha Reem , Messallam Ahmed , Akshintala Venkata S. , Singh Vikesh K. , Lennon Anne Marie , Canto Marcia I. , Kalloo Anthony N. , Pasricha Pankaj J. 
Published: November 2013

Background and AimEndoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a complex procedure and is associated with significant risks. The aims of this pilot study were to study feasibility and procedural times of gastric ESD using a novel gel and endoscopic scissors in a porcine model.MethodsSimulated 3‐cm gastric submucosal lesions were created in a porcine model. Subsequently, viscous gel was injected into the created bleb. A needle knife was used to create an initial incision when needed. Endoscopic scissors were then used for circumferential incision around the simulated submucosal lesions. The inserted coil (i.e. submucosal lesion) was then removed. The submucosal surface was carefully examined for signs of injury. Procedural times were recorded.ResultsESD was carried out in four consecutive pigs using the ‘Scissorhands’ technique. A small submucosal incision was created a using needle knife in the first pig and electrocauterywas not used in the remaining three pigs. Circumferential incision using the scissors was done successfully in all pigs. Submucosal dissection was not required in any case. ‘Auto‐dissection’ of created lesions by the gel was noted to be complete in all cases. Inserted coils were noted in the submucosal space during all experiments and were removed. All lesions were successfully resected en bloc. The mean procedure time was 19 min (range 13–22 min).ConclusionThe combined technique of endoscopic scissors for circumferential incision and viscous gel for submucosal dissection permitted easy, safe and efficient gastric ESD. Electrocautery may be avoided and its consequent adverse events (e.g. perforation).
Allogeneic adipose stem cell therapy in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Rigol Montserrat , Solanes Núria , Roura Santiago , Roqué Mercè , Novensà Laura , Dantas Ana Paula , Martorell Jaume , Sitges Marta , Ramírez José , Bayés‐Genís Antoni , Heras Magda 
Published: November 2013

AbstractBackgroundStem cell therapy offers a promising approach to reduce the long‐term mortality rate associated with heart failure after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). To date, in vivo translational studies have not yet fully studied the immune response to allogeneic adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ATMSCs). We analysed the immune response and the histological and functional effects of allogeneic ATMSCs in a porcine model of reperfused AMI and determine the effect of administration timing.DesignPigs that survived AMI (24/26) received intracoronary administration of culture medium after reperfusion (n = 6), ATMSCs after reperfusion (n = 6), culture medium 7 days after AMI (n = 6) or ATMSCs 7 days after AMI (n = 6). At 3‐week follow‐up, cardiac function, alloantibodies and histological analysis were evaluated.ResultsAdministration of ATMSCs after reperfusion and 7 days after AMI resulted in similar rates of cell engraftment; some of those cells expressed endothelial, smooth muscle and cardiomyogenic cell lineage markers. Delivery of ATMSCs after reperfusion compared with that performed at 7 days was more effective in increasing: vascular density (249 ± 64 vs. 161 ± 37 vessels/mm2; P < 0·01), T lymphocytes (1 ± 0·4 vs. 0·4 ± 0·3% of area CD3+; P < 0·05) and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; 32 ± 7% vs. 20 ± 4% of area VEGF+; P < 0·01). Allogeneic ATMSC‐based therapy did not change ejection fraction but generated alloantibodies.ConclusionsThe present study is the first to demonstrate that allogeneic ATMSCs elicit an immune response and, when administered immediately after reperfusion, are more effective in increasing VEGF expression and neovascularization.
Tissue‐specific promoter usage and diverse splicing variants of found in neurons, an ancestral Hu/ELAV‐like RNA‐binding protein gene of insects, in the direct‐developing insect Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Watanabe T. , Aonuma H. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractHu/ELAV‐like RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) are involved in the post‐transcriptional regulation of RNA metabolism including splicing, transport, translational control and turnover. The Hu/ELAV‐like RBP genes are predominantly expressed in neurons, and are therefore used as common neuronal markers in many animals. Although the expression patterns and functions of the Hu/ELAV‐like RBP genes have been extensively studied in the model insect Drosophila melanogaster, little is known in basal direct‐developing insects. In the present study, we performed an identification and expression analysis of the found in neurons (fne) gene, an ancestral insect Hu/ELAV‐like RBP gene, in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. Contrary to expectation that the Gryllus fne transcript would be predominantly expressed in the nervous system, expression analysis revealed that the Gryllus fne gene is expressed broadly. In addition, we discovered that alternative promoter usage directs tissue‐specific and embryonic stage‐dependent regulation of fne expression, and that alternative splicing contributes to the generation of diverse sets of fne transcripts. Our data provide novel insights into the evolutionary diversification of the Hu/ELAV‐like RBP gene family in insects.
Comparative analyses of salivary proteins from three aphid species
Authors: Vandermoten S. , Harmel N. , Mazzucchelli G. , De Pauw E. , Haubruge E. , Francis F. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractSaliva is a critical biochemical interface between aphids and their host plants; however, the biochemical nature and physiological functions of aphid saliva proteins are not fully elucidated. In this study we used a multidisciplinary proteomics approach combining liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry and two‐dimensional differential in‐gel electrophoresis/matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/mass spectrometry to compare the salivary proteins from three aphid species including Acyrthosiphon pisum, Megoura viciae and Myzus persicae. Comparative analyses revealed variability among aphid salivary proteomes. Among the proteins that varied, 22% were related to DNA‐binding, 19% were related to GTP‐binding, and 19% had oxidoreductase activity. In addition, we identified a peroxiredoxin enzyme and an ATP‐binding protein that may be involved in the modulation of plant defences. Knowledge of salivary components and how they vary among aphid species may reveal how aphids target plant processes and how the aphid and host plant interact.
Adult men's beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding contraceptives: a systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Hoga Luiza AK , Rodolpho Juliana RC , Sato Priscila M , Nunes Michelly CM , Borges Ana LV 
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectivesTo explore the men's beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences towards contraceptives.BackgroundThe promotion of male participation in contraceptive practices requires the knowledge and consideration of the beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences involved. The systematic review of the literature focusing on these themes can be useful for the evidence‐based health care.DesignA systematic review of qualitative studies.MethodsStudies published between 1994 until 2011 (inclusive) were included. The participants included men from all cultures, ethnic backgrounds and religions who have expressed their beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding male contraceptives. The databases CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, SciELO, LILACS and MedCarib were explored. The appraisal of primary studies, carried out through the JBI‐QARI (Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument) resulted in the inclusion of 16 studies in this systematic review.ResultsThe set of statements of beliefs, values, attitudes and experiences regarding contraceptives resulted in five synthesis: (1) contraceptive behaviour is influenced by religious, family and social backgrounds; (2) gendered, male‐centred values predominate in contraceptive behaviours; (3) the sense of invulnerability influences contraceptive behaviours; (4) strong obstacles should be overcome to use contraceptives; (5) behaviours, decision‐making and experiences regarding male contraceptives.ConclusionsThe male beliefs and values regarding contraceptives are strongly influenced by religious, family and social backgrounds, and their attitudes in this scope are male centred.Relevance to clinical practiceA deeper male consciousness regarding contraceptive responsibility should be promoted. It requires the knowledge of the men's personal backgrounds regarding contraceptives because they can be diverse according to family, social and cultural contexts. The consideration of the men's personal perspective is essential in the planning and implementation of reproductive health care. These aspects are essential for the concretisation of the evidence‐based health care, a current challenge worldwide.
Perceived learning needs of Syrian patients postcoronary artery bypass graft surgery
Authors: Omari Ferdous , Al‐Zaru Ibtisam , AL‐Yousef Rasha H 
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectivesTo describe the perceived learning needs of Syrian patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery before hospital discharge and to examine the differences in the mean scores of the categories (subscales) of the modified Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory according to the demographic characteristics of the participants.BackgroundKnowledge about the learning needs of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery can help nurses in coronary care units to provide them with the information that they need. This might improve their quality of life through decreasing complications, length of stay in the hospital and hospital readmissions.DesignA descriptive design was used for this study.MethodsA convenience sample of 135 patients participated in this study and completed the demographic form and the modified Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory.ResultsInformation about chest and leg wound care, complications, medication and physical activity was the most important learning needs. There were significant differences between patients' perceptions of learning needs and their age, chronic illnesses and their working status.ConclusionSyrian patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery were able to identify their learning needs that should be the focus of nursing practice.Relevance to clinical practiceMeeting the needs of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery should be emphasised in nursing practice. Meeting these needs might enhance their self‐care behaviours.
A Technical Note on the Use of Choquet Integral to Analyze Consumer Preferences: Application to Meat Consumption
Authors: Alfonso Leopoldo 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThis paper deals with the use of the Choquet integral to analyze meat consumer preferences. First, we present the method in comparison with multiple linear regression. Second, we illustrate the application in a data set of panelist evaluation of fresh pork loin chops for three attributes (color, lean content and overall acceptability) and purchase intention. Kappalab and Rfmtool packages for the GNU R statistical system were used for data analysis. The Choquet integral allowed to analyze the contribution of each attribute and their combinations, overcome the problems of multicollinearity in linear regression, and showed a similar or better predictive ability than linear model. In conclusion, the Choquet integral can be considered a complementary tool of usual statistical analysis of food consumer preferences.Practical ApplicationsThis paper suggests the use of the Choquet integral as a complementary statistical tool that can facilitate the analyses of complex sensory evaluations and the behavior of consumers. The Choquet integral allows estimating the importance of different sensorial attributes on the final consumer decision taking into account the dependencies existing between them. It allows a better understanding of the relationships existing between sensorial attributes especially in the presence of multicollinearity. Furthermore, the comparison of the behavior of different groups of consumers can be performed easily.