RP Group Research Articles

Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness Measured By Swept Source OCT in Retinitis Pigmentosa Patients

Abstract Background Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) encompasses a group of hereditary retinal diseases that result in progressive loss of rod and cone photoreceptors. It occurs in approximately one in 4000 individuals, with a worldwide prevalence of 1.5 million affected individuals. Aim of the Work This study aimed measure the subfoveal choroidal thickness and outer retinal layer thickness in patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa and correlate them with visual acuity. Methods Fifty eyes of clinically and electrophysiologically confirmed retinitis pigmentosa patients compare to fifty eyes of normal healthy individuals of the same age group as controls. Both groups were investigated for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA)(LogMAR) and Swept Source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) evaluating outer retinal layer thickness (ORL), central foveal thickness and subfoveal thickness (SFCT) and the integrity of inner segment-outer segment junction IS/OS as being (Intact (+) or disrupted (-)), Results Mean ages were 34.5 ± 11.3 years for controls versus 38.8 ±12.8 years for RP patients (p > 0.05). Mean BCVA (logMAR) was 0.86 for RP group vesus 0.02 for control group. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) measurements were significantly lower in RP group (288.4 µm) than control group (333.7µm) (P value = 0.008). Significant difference was found between choroidal thickness and BCVA (logMAR) (p-value <0.001). Presence of IS/OS was significantly correlated with BCVA (log MAR) (p value=0.0001). And finally, there was moderate negative correlation between central foveal thickness and BCVA (logMAR) (r = -0.414, p-value = 0.012). Conclusion Submacular choroidal thickness as measured by SS–OCT, is significantly reduced in patients with RP and significantly correlated to BCVA and IS/OS integrity.

Moving Past Disconnected Hurdles

This article argues for the need to significantly adjust the process and focus of the educational thesis and dissertation to better match the preparation and needs of students who are practitioners in order to help these students become stronger and better educators and leaders. To that end, the article presents innovative approaches to improve experiences for graduate students who are developing, conducting and completing master’s degree theses and doctoral dissertations in the field of education.
 The vast majority of students who pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in education do not intend to become researchers or university faculty. Rather, most of these students are looking to improve their skills as teachers and educational leaders, and will likely never conduct a major research effort beyond the thesis or dissertation. While these students have a great deal of practical experience in their field, most of them have had little or no exposure to graduate level research, scholarly literature or academic writing. Recognizing that research skills including data collection and analysis, and academic writing are essential skills for all graduate students including those in educational programs, these skills alone are inadequate in preparing educators for the realities they face as they work to conduct multi-tiered and multi-faceted research that will affect positive change and contribute to the field to improve overall student success. For many of these students the thesis and dissertation, while a significant requirement for the degree, are viewed as major “hurdles” that are too often disconnected from the realities and complexities of the classroom and administrative office. 
 Appropriate theoretical and conceptual frameworks are used to examine how the educational thesis and dissertation process can be improved to better serve the needs of educational practitioners. This includes the use of Role AcquisitionTheory (Thornton & Nardi, 1975) to examine and help facilitate the intrinsic change process in graduate students in education during the thesis and dissertation process. Transformative Learning Framework (Cranton, 2016) is used to better understand and advance developmental changes and scaffolding that are necessary to examine problematic frames of reference, openly reflect, and to emotionally change from the experience. The Loss/Momentum Framework (RP Group, 2012) is used in two separate ways; first to scrutinize specific institutional barriers and supports that exist in graduate and doctoral programs in education as well throughout the university that influence the process of completing the thesis and dissertation. Second, it is used to identify and examine individual characteristics, skills, and attributes of these students that serve as either barriers or assets to completing a meaningful thesis or dissertation.
 Practical recommendations for improving the educational thesis and dissertation process are provided, and mentoring and strategic coaching approaches discussed.

Sinapine-enriched rapeseed oils reduced fatty liver formation in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice.

Oil enrichment with trace amounts of components has significant effects on animal nutrition and health. In this work, the potential impact of sinapine, a trace amount of polyphenol naturally present in rapeseeds, was investigated in high-fat diet (HF)-fed C57BL/6J mice. The mice were fed with different diets including chow diet (LF), HF diet, rapeseed oil-containing HF diet (RO), and rapeseed oils enriched with sinapine (500 mg kg−1 oil, high-fat diet, RP) for 12 weeks. Here, it was demonstrated that sinapine supplementation significantly reduced (P < 0.05) body weight increase, fat accumulation, and fatty liver formation in mice when compared with those fed with a high-fat diet. The TG, LDL-C, ALT and AST levels in the RP group were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) by 15.67%, 73.62%, 20.67%, and 31.58%, respectively, compared with that in the HF group. Besides, the addition of sinapine prevented the degeneration of mouse adipocytes and lipid accumulation in the liver. Moreover, this change was achieved by downregulating SREBP-1c and FAS and upregulating PPAR-α and ACOX1 gene expression levels. Our results indicate that sinapine can be used as a prebiotic to enhance the nutritional function of vegetable oils to prevent obesity-related chronic diseases such as NAFLD.

Effects on Humidification and Ventilatory Parameters of Three Single-limb Heated-wired Circuits for Non-invasive Ventilation: A Bench Study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of three single-limb heated wired circuits (SLHWC) for NIV, on ventilatory parameters and humidification performance in a simulation lung model. MethodsThree SLHWC compatible with the MR-850 Heated Humidifier (HH) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand) were tested: RT-319 (FP) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand), Respironics 1045770 (RP) (DEAS, Castel Bolognese, Italy) and Intersurgical B/SYS 5809001 (IT) (Intersurgical, Wokingham, UK). A Bipap Vision ventilator (Philips Respironics, Murrysville, PA, USA) in pressure control ventilation (PCV) connected to a test lung was used for simulation. Each SHWC performance was evaluated in four ventilatory conditions: IPAP of 15cmH2O with FiO2 0.3 and 1, respectively; and, IPAP of 25cmH2O with FiO2 0.3 and 1, respectively. EPAP was set at 5cmH2O. Hygrometric and ventilatory measurements including: relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), Pplat, PIP, PEEP, peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and tidal volume (Vt) were measured. ResultsIn each FiO2 group absolute humidity (AH) was similar with FP regardless of the IPAP level employed compared to IT and RP (P<.001). Except for RP at FiO2 0.3, AH increased significantly in IT and RP groups as IPAP increased (P<.001). PIP, Pplat, PEEP, PIF, and Vt values were significantly higher with FP and RP in each FiO2 group compared to IT (P<.001). ConclusionsHumidification performance varied significantly among the three circuits, being FP the only one able to maintain stable AH values during the study with no influence on ventilatory parameters.

Effect of Silicon dioxide coating of acrylic resin surfaces on Candida albicans adhesion.

Acrylic resin has been used in the manufacture of prostheses, however, in the oral cavity, this material starts to retain microorganisms capable of causing gingival inflammation due its porosities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the use of silicon dioxide as a coating layer applied onto acrylic resin, on the adhesion of Candida albicans (Ca). After the incubation period in Sabouraud Dextrose Broth, a total of 1 ml of the Ca suspension was added to plate wells, each well containing a specimen of acrylic resin. The adhesion ability of Ca on acrylic resin was determined by counting colonies. Three groups (n = 6) of acrylic resin were assessed: with polishing (RP); without polishing (RW); with polishing and coating layer of silicon dioxide (RPC). Ca deposited on the surface of the acrylic resin was also observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Statistical assessment by Kruskal-Wallis and Student-Newman-Keuls Method were done (α = 2%). There was significant difference among the groups. The RPC group showed the lowest growth, with an average of 5.59 Log CFU/cm 2 ; there was a statistically significant difference in relation to group RW, which presented a growth of 6.07 Log CFU/cm 2 and to group RP with 5.91 Log CFU/cm 2 (p < 000.1). SEM images demonstrated that in the RP and RPC group, the surface of the resin had greater regularity, and smaller number of microorganisms. The application of silicon dioxide coating on acrylic resin appears to be a promising alternative, and its use can help in reducing the adhesion of Ca in prostheses.

Persepsi masyarakat terhadap pengelolaan sampah dan kesediaan membayar (willingness to pay) dalam pelayanan pengelolaan sampah di Distrik Manokwari Barat

This study aims to determine community’s perceptions of waste management, determine the value of Willingness to Pay (WTP) and analyze the household characteristics (X), which as the perception of waste management (X1), income (X2), family number (X3) and education level (X4). These factors are expected to affect the amount of the WTP value. The study was conducted in the District of Manokwari Barat approximately two months (May to June 2016). Total of 60 respondents distributed in 6 villages. Most of the respondents said (55%) that the dustman activities done quite well. However, the placement of the container is limited only in the activity center. The majority respondents (61.67%) only use plastic bags for garbage container. The cost of taking out the trash is Rp. 5000 s / d Rp. 20,000, and the weekly cost they spend Rp. 10.000 s / d Rp. 60,000. The majority respondents (80%) stated that the garbage collecting process has done fairly well, the dustman collecting garbage every day with limited fleet and funds. The majority of respondents (56.67%) said the process of garbage removal and transport has done fairly well, well (21.67%), and unfavorable (21.67%). The majority respondents (61.67%) said that the implementation of the landfill were done well, rubbish was dumped without any treatment. This research result that the WTP group of Rp. 50,000 / month was 60%, the Group of WTP Rp. 75,000 / month was 6.67%, and Group WTP Rp. 100,000 / month was 33.33%. Potential retribution Rp. 1.258.563.333 / month. Based on the multiple regression analysis that the entire household characteristics significantly affect the value of WTP, which the value of R2 was 0,513. The coefficient value of each variables to the WTP were X1 (-14,046.268), X2 (0.005), X3 (-6,882.381), and X4 (9,813.867). The F-test was resulted that Fcount at 14.478 higher than Ftable at 2.54, this mean that all variables simultaneously throughout the study variables significantly influence the public decision give WTP values (Y). Similar results were on the t-test results, partially any study variables significantly influence the decision of the community provides WTP values (Y). The tcount was X1 (-2.897), X2 (2.605), X3 (-2.260), and X4 (2.646) higher than ttable at 1.673.

On cohomogeneity one linear actions on pseudo-Euclidean space [formula omitted

The aim of this paper is to study cohomogeneity one isometric linear actions on the p+q-dimensional pseudo-Euclidean space Rp,q. It is proved that the natural isometric action of the nilpotent factor of an Iwasawa decomposition of SO(p,q) is not of cohomogeneity one. The orbits of cohomogeneity one actions of some subgroups of a maximal parabolic subgroup of the isometry group of Rp,q are determined and it is proved that there exist cohomogeneity one isometric actions on Rp,q which are orbit-equivalent on the complement of a p-dimensional degenerate subspace Wp of Rp,q and not orbit-equivalent on Wp.

P3502Transmission electron microscopy reveals ultrastructural differences between reticulated and non-reticulated human platelets

Abstract Reticulated platelets (RP) are the youngest circulating platelets in blood. Compared to older platelets, RP represent a highly active prothrombotic platelet population associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular events, mortality and impaired response to antiplatelet drugs compared to older platelets (non-RP). The underlying mechanisms for these characteristics of RP are so far poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize ultrastructural properties of RP and non-RP by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of FACS-sorted human platelets using a novel staining method for RP. Washed platelets from three healthy donors were stained by SYTO™13, a nucleic acid binding fluorescent dye, which enables determination of RP and non-RP based on their RNA-content. 8×106 platelets were fixed, sorted and sandwiched between two layers of agarose gel. Samples were further processed for visualization by TEM. In total, 1047 platelets, i.e., electron micrographs of individual cross-sections, were analysed by an investigator blinded concerning experimental condition. Sizes, numbers of α-granules, dense granules, mitochondria and open canalicular system openings were assessed in RP and non-RP, respectively. Furthermore, platelets were screened for pseudopodia formation as an indicator for activation. Cross-sectional area was significantly different between RP and non-RP (2.44 [1.80–3.22] vs. 1.34 [1.04–1.89] μm2; p&lt;0.0001; median with IQR). α-granule and mitochondria amounts were higher in RP which persisted even after adjustment for platelet size (α-granules: 4.64 [3.46–5.86]/μm2 vs. 4.15 [2.87–5.26]/μm2; p&lt;0.0001; mitochondria: 0.33±0.02 /μm2 vs. 0.12±0.01/μm2; mean ± SEM). In contrast, the amount of open canalicular system openings per square μm was higher in the non-RP group (5.82 [4.34–7.68] /μm2 vs. 5.52 [4.01–7.11] /μm2; p=0.009). Dense granule content per square μm was similar in both RP and non-RP. Pseudopodia were present in 38% (RP) respective 37% (non-RP) of platelets. Notably, golgi apparatus and rough endoplasmic reticulum which are rarely seen in platelets were detected in several RP. Analysis of TEM pictures revealed an almost 2-fold higher cross-sectional area in RP compared to non-RP. Even after adjustment for differences in size, α-granule content remained significantly higher in RP indicating a higher storage pool for prothrombotic constituents like p-selectin or von Willebrand factor. Although the relative amount of dense granules per area did not differ between the two groups, a higher absolute number of dense granules per platelet in the RP group is indicative for higher amounts of stored small molecules such as ADP, calcium or serotonin. Despite the anucleate nature of platelets, the presence of golgi apparatus and rough endoplasmic reticulum suggests the capability of protein biosynthesis in RP. These comprehensive findings provide new important insight into the ultrastructural properties of human RP. Acknowledgement/Funding PharmCompNet Baden-Württemberg: Kompetenznetzwerk Pharmakologie Baden-Württemberg

Postoperative residual pain is associated with a high magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based signal intensity of the repaired supraspinatus tendon.

To assess patients with and without postoperative residual pain and to compare clinical function and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of the repaired supraspinatus tendon between patients with and without pain. One-hundred and seventeen patients with supraspinatustear were included in this study. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for pain were assessed at a follow-up of at least 1 year. Patients with residual shoulder pain were enrolled in the residual pain group (RP group) and patients without pain enrolled in the no pain group (NP group). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder evaluation form, the modified University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score and the Fudan University Shoulder Score (FUSS) were also used to evaluate shoulder function. MRIexaminations were performed to evaluate rotator cuff integrity according to the Sugaya method, and muscular hypotrophy, fatty infiltration, and signal/noise quotient (SNQ) of the rotator cuff tendon. Thirty-five patients had residual pain (RP group) and 82 patients had no pain (NR group). At the final follow-up, there was a significant difference in ASES (92 ± 8 points vs 76 ± 10 points; p < 0.001), UCLA (32 ± 3 points vs 28 ± 3 points; p < 0.001), FUSS (90 ± 7 points vs 80 ± 9 points; p < 0.001) and strength (9 ± 3kg vs 6 ± 2kg; p < 0.001) between the NP group and the RP group, respectively. Postoperative MRI revealed that there was no significant difference in the retear rate (9.8% vs 8.6%; ns), the muscular hypotrophy (ns), and the fatty infiltration index (0.9 ± 0.2 vs 0.9 ± 0.2; ns) between the NP and the RP groups, respectively. The postoperative tendon SNQ of the RP group was significantly higher than that of the NP group (4.6 ± 2.5 vs 3 ± 1.7; p < 0.001). There was a significant association between tendon SNQ and VAS for this cohort ([Formula: see text] = 0.29; p = 0.003). Postoperative residual pain is associated with a high MRI signal intensity of the repaired supraspinatus tendon. Since high signal intensity of tendon tissue indicates degenerated tendon tissue quality, it highlighted the necessity of debriding the degenerated rotator cuff tendon tissue. III.

Long-term safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of adalimumab biosimilar BI 695501 and adalimumab reference product in patients with moderately-to-severely active rheumatoid arthritis: results from a phase 3b extension study (VOLTAIRE-RAext)

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate long-term safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of BI 695501 in patients with moderately-to-severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have completed VOLTAIRE-RA. Methods: Eligible patients for this phase 3b open-label extension study (VOLTAIRE-RAext), who had completed 48 weeks’ treatment with BI 695501 (Group A), 24 weeks each of adalimumab RP then BI 695501 (Group B), or 48 weeks of adalimumab RP (Group C) in VOLTAIRE-RA, were enrolled. Results: Altogether, 430 patients received BI 695501 fortnightly for 48 weeks: Group A, n = 225; Group B, n = 103; Group C, n = 102. The proportion of patients with drug-related adverse events (AEs; overall 20.2%) was similar across Groups A, B, and C: 21.3%, 20.4%, and 17.6%, respectively. The majority of treatment-emergent AEs were non-serious and of mild/moderate intensity. Consistent with adalimumab RP’s safety profile, most drug-related AEs were in the system organ class infections and infestations. BI 695501 and adalimumab RP responses at the end of VOLTAIRE-RA were sustained during VOLTAIRE-RAext and all efficacy and immunogenicity endpoints were similar across groups. Conclusion: Over 2 years, BI 695501 showed similar safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity to adalimumab RP, independent of initial treatment in VOLTAIRE-RA. No previously unknown adalimumab side effects were identified. Clinical trial registration: NCT02640612.

Effects on Humidification and Ventilatory Parameters of Three Single-limb Heated-wired Circuits for Non-invasive Ventilation: A Bench Study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of three single-limb heated wired circuits (SLHWC) for NIV, on ventilatory parameters and humidification performance in a simulation lung model. MethodsThree SLHWC compatible with the MR-850 Heated Humidifier (HH) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand) were tested: RT-319 (FP) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand), Respironics 1045770 (RP) (DEAS, Castel Bolognese, Italy) and Intersurgical B/SYS 5809001 (IT) (Intersurgical, Wokingham, UK). A Bipap Vision ventilator (Philips Respironics, Murrysville, PA, USA) in pressure control ventilation (PCV) connected to a test lung was used for simulation. Each SHWC performance was evaluated in four ventilatory conditions: IPAP of 15cmH2O with FiO2 0.3 and 1, respectively; and, IPAP of 25cmH2O with FiO2 0.3 and 1, respectively. EPAP was set at 5cmH2O. Hygrometric and ventilatory measurements including: relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), Pplat, PIP, PEEP, peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and tidal volume (Vt) were measured. ResultsIn each FiO2 group absolute humidity (AH) was similar with FP regardless of the IPAP level employed compared to IT and RP (P<.001). Except for RP at FiO2 0.3, AH increased significantly in IT and RP groups as IPAP increased (P<.001). PIP, Pplat, PEEP, PIF, and Vt values were significantly higher with FP and RP in each FiO2 group compared to IT (P<.001). ConclusionsHumidification performance varied significantly among the three circuits, being FP the only one able to maintain stable AH values during the study with no influence on ventilatory parameters.

Dietary Branched-Chain Amino Acids Regulate Food Intake Partly through Intestinal and Hypothalamic Amino Acid Receptors in Piglets

Strategies to increase feed intake are of great importance for producing more meat in swine production. Intestinal and hypothalamic amino acid receptors are found to largely participate in feed intake regulation. The purpose of the current research is to study the function of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation in the regulation of feed intake through sensors that can detect amino acids in piglets. Twenty-four piglets were assigned one of four treatments and fed one of the experimental diets for either a short period (Expt. 1) or a long period (Expt. 2): a normal protein diet (NP, 20.04% CP), a reduced-protein diet (RP, 17.05% CP), or a reduced-protein test diet supplemented with one of two doses of BCAAs (BCAA1, supplemented with 0.13% l-isoleucine, 0.09% l-leucine, and 0.23% l-valine; BCAA2, supplemented with the 150% standardized ileal digestibility BCAA requirement, as recommended by the National Research Council (2012)). In Expt. 1, no differences were observed in the feed intake among piglets fed different diets ( P > 0.05). In Expt. 2, compared with the RP group, the feed intake of piglets was significantly increased after sufficient BCAAs were supplemented in the BCAA1 group, which was associated with decreased cholecystokinin secretion ( P < 0.05), down-regulated expression of type-1 taste receptors 1/3 (T1R1/T1R3) in the intestine, as well as increased expression of pro-opiomelanocortin, activated general control nonderepressible 2 (GCN2), and eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) in the hypothalamus ( P < 0.05). However, the feed intake was decreased for unknown reasons when the piglets were fed a BCAA over-supplemented diet. Our study confirmed that a BCAA-deficient diet inhibited feed intake through two potential ways: regulating the amino acid T1R1/T1R3 receptor in the intestine or activating GCN2/eIF2α pathways in the hypothalamus.

Protein restriction in early life increases intracellular calcium and insulin secretion, but does not alter expression of SNARE proteins during pregnancy.

What is the central question of this study? Does protein restriction in early life modify glucose-induced insulin secretion by altering [Ca2+ ]i and the expression of SNARE proteins in pancreatic islets from pregnant rats? What is the main finding and its importance? Protein restriction in early life increased the first phase of glucose-induced insulin secretion and [Ca2+ ]i without altering the expression of SNARE proteins during pregnancy. This finding contributes to our understanding of the mechanisms of altered insulin secretion and might provide new perspectives for the development of therapeutic tools for gestational diabetes. We investigated the kinetics of glucose-induced insulin secretion and their relationship with [Ca2+ ]i and the expression of protein from exocytotic machinery in islets from recovered pregnant and long-term protein-deficient pregnant rats. Isolated islets were evaluated from control-fed pregnant (CP), protein-deficient pregnant (DP), control-fed non-pregnant (CNP) and protein-deficient non-pregnant (DNP) female adult rats, and from protein-deficient pregnant (RP) and non-pregnant (RNP) rats that were recovered after weaning. The insulin responses to glucose during the first phase of secretion were higher in RP than in CP groups, and both were higher than in the DP group. Islets from RP rats displayed a rapid increase in insulin release (first phase), followed by a plateau that was maintained thereafter. The [Ca2+ ]i in islets from the protein-deficient groups was lower than in the control groups, and both were lower than in the RP and RNP groups. SNAP-25 was increased in islets from pregnant rats independently of their nutritional status, and the syntaxin-1A content was reduced in islets from the RP rats compared with the RNP rats. The VAMP2 content was similar among the groups. Thus, protein restriction during intrauterine life and lactation increased insulin secretion during pregnancy, attributable, in part, to increased [Ca2+ ]i , and independent of an alteration of expression of SNARE proteins.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of second-line palliative chemotherapy with paclitaxel plus raltitrexed and paclitaxel alone in patients with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma: A randomized phase II trial.

4054 Background: Paclitaxel is a microtubule stabilizing agent that has been the standard second line chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer. This study was designed to find out the clinical outcome of paclitaxel plus raltitrexed regimen as second line treatment in MGC patients. Methods: In an open, randomized, multi centers phase II clinical trial , 148 patients were randomly assigned and treated with either RP (raltitrexed 3 mg/m2 d1 and paclitaxel 135mg/m2 d1,3w) or P (paclitaxel 135mg/m2 d1,3w) as second-line palliative chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is PFS, secondary endpoint is ORR, OS and safety. Results: In 148 randomly assigned and treated patients (RP = 73; P = 75), the majority of patients were males (94 vs. 54). Progression free survival has a tendency to be prolonged with RP versus P (2.7m vs. 1.7m, p = 0.148). Overall survival also has a tendency to be prolonged with RP versus P (10.2m vs. 6.1m, p = 0.140). Overall response rate was equal with RP versus P (6.8% vs.4.0%, p = 0.72). DCR in the RP group was 56.2%, P group was 36.0%. Grade 3 to 4 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 36.2% (RP) v 28.2% (P) of patients. Frequent grade 3 to 4 toxicities for RP v P were: neutropenia (11.0% v 4.0%), anemia (1.4% v 4.0%), thrombocytopenia (1.4% v 5.3%), and all grade peripheral neurotoxicity (12.3% v 17.3%),all grade elevated aminotransferase (27.4% v 14.1%). Subgroup analysis shows if the disease combined with ascites or peritoneal involved , OS of RP regimen is more longer (p = 0.05). Conclusions: Second-line palliative chemotherapy with paclitaxel plus raltitrexed provides a tendency to prolong PFS and OS, and the patients with ascites or peritoneal involved may get benifits from combined chemotherapy, which needs to be confirmed by larger sample studies. Clinical trial information: NCT02072317.

Class and Structural Inequality of fishing communities in Ambon City

Social class is a social phenomenon that often occurs in every social group including the fishing communities. The structural inequality of fishing communities is characterized by the imbalance in ownership of production equipment and income distribution among fishermen. This research was conducted in one of the Fishermen Village (Negeri) in Ambon City, called Negeri Latuhalat. Type of research used in this study is post-positivism paradigm using qualitative approach supported by quantitative research. The purpose of this research is to analyze the level of imbalance between Ambon City fishermen. The results showed the formation of fishermen social classes which consist of masnait fishermen, tanase fisherman laborer, small fishermen, middle fishermen and tenant fisherman (capitalist). The gini index of fishermen in the research location shows a figure of 0.74, meaning that it shows a high imbalance between fisherman classes. The ratio of kuznets or the average comparison between fishermen received by 33% of the top group of Rp. 8,404,567, - and 25% of the lowest group of Rp. 2.040.000, -. Measurements using the World Bank also show the same thing with the results of gini index measurements that illustrate the portrait of inequality income distribution in the study sites. This condition illustrates that there has been an imbalance between fishermen classes, as much as 75% are only able to receive 8.72% of total income while as much as 25% of tenant fishermen (capitalist) enjoy and control 91.73% of total income.

The association between metabolic profile indices, clinical parameters, and ultrasound measurement of backfat thickness during the periparturient period of dairy cows

This study aimed to evaluate clinical and biochemical changes in dairy cows during periparturient period. It was carried out on 38 multiparous Holstein/Fersian crossbreed dairy cows 3–11 years old. Using ultrasonography for measurement backfat thickness (BFT) for detection of the energy deficit. BFT on dairy cattle is used to monitor changes in subcutaneous fat thickness which represent changes in energy stores. On the basis of clinical examination and assessment of BHBA concentration in blood, cows were classified to four groups, control healthy cows (C = 16), subclinical ketosis (SCK = 10), cows with retained placenta (RP = 6), and clinical mastitis (CM = 6). BFT showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) after parturition in all diseased groups compared with healthy. The plasma level of NEFA and BHBA showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) at 2 weeks a.p (antepartum) and 2 weeks p.p (postpartum) in RP and SCK than other groups, respectively. The plasma level of glucose showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) at 2 weeks p.p in SCK group. The plasma level of insulin showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) at 4 weeks a.p in RP group and in all groups after parturition. It could be concluded that production diseases induced clinical, biochemical, and subcutaneous fat changes in dairy cows.

Microcomputed Assessment of Transportation, Centering Ratio, Canal Area, and Volume Increase after Single-file Rotary and Reciprocating Glide Path Instrumentation in Curved Root Canals: A Laboratory Study

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to compare the transportation and centering abilities of the ProGlider (PG; Dentsply-Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland), WaveOne Gold Glider (WOGG; Dentsply-Sirona), and R-Pilot (RP; VDW, Munich, Germany) file systems and the changes in the structure model index (SMI), surface area, and root canal volume (after creating the glide path in the mandibular first molar teeth’s mesial canals with moderate curvature) using the micro–computed tomographic (micro-CT) method. MethodsIn the present study, 24 mandibular first molar teeth with 2 separate mesial canals and moderate (10°–20°) curvature were used. After scanning with micro-CT imaging before the procedure, the teeth were divided into 3 groups, PG, WOGG, and RP (n = 10/each group), followed by the glide path procedure. After the root canal preparation, changes in the root canals regarding the volume, surface area, SMI, transportation made by the files, and the change of their centering ability in the apical, middle, and coronal third were analyzed by micro-CT imaging. The data were statistically evaluated using 1-way analysis of variance and the Kruskal-Wallis test with a significance level set at 5% (P < .05). ResultsThe WOGG and RP file systems showed better centering abilities at all thirds compared with the PG file system (P < .05). No significant difference was found in the apical third between the groups in terms of canal transportation degree (P > .05). However, in the WOGG and RP groups, less transportation was observed in the middle and coronal thirds compared with the PG group (P < .05). When the SMI changed, after the root canal preparation was compared, no significant differences were found between the groups (P > .05). Nevertheless, the changes in volume and surface area of the root canal in the WOGG and RP groups were significantly lower than in the PG group (P < .05). ConclusionsThe WOGG and RP file systems caused similar levels of change in the root canal systems based on all parameters. Moreover, it was determined that the PG file system caused a significantly higher volume and surface area increase than the WOGG and RP file systems.

Short-term differences in anterior knee pain and clinical outcomes between rotating and fixed platform posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty with a new femoral component design.

AIMTo compare rotating versus fixed-bearing Press-Fit Condylar (PFC) Sigma posterior stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with the new “J curve” femoral design in terms of clinical outcomes and anterior knee pain.METHODSWe retrospectively analyzed 39 patients who underwent primary total knee replacement surgery for knee osteoarthritis using the PFC Sigma PS TKA with either fixed (FP group, 20 cases) or rotating platform (RP group, 19 cases) treated between 2009 and 2013 by the same surgeon. The two groups were homogeneous for age, gender, weight, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, pre-operative clinical and functional scores, and prosthetic alignment at two years after surgery. We analyzed clinical outcomes score at two years follow-up using Knee Society Score (KSS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Knee Performance Score, Short Form (SF) 36, and anterior knee pain assessed by the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) patellar score.RESULTSNo differences were found in KSS, Knee Performance Score, and SF-36 outcome scores. A statistically significant difference was found in the HSS Patella score objective (FP: 22.36; RP: 28.75; P < 0.05), HSS Patella score total (FP: 73.68; RP: 86.50; P < 0.05), and KOOS symptoms (FP: 73.49; RP: 86.44; P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONRotating platform in PFC Sigma PS TKA appears to reduce the short-term incidence of anterior knee pain compared to the fixed platform.

Reveromycin A Inhibits Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Mice

Background and objectives: Reveromycin A inhibits bone metastasis of lung cancer cells in natural killer cell-depleted immunodeficient mice with increasing apoptosis of osteoclasts. This knowledge suggests that reveromycin A is a potent inhibitor for osteoclasts in vivo. To determine the activity of bone loss in acute estrogen deficiency, we studied ovariectomized mice treated with reveromycin A. Materials and Methods: Eight-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were either ovariectomized or sham-operated. Reveromycin A was continuously administered for the first 2 weeks (Group RA) or the last 2 weeks (Group RP) using a subcutaneous mini osmotic pump. Mice were sacrificed 4 weeks after surgery. Inhibition was detected by images as well as serum carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX). Results: BMD reduction in the RA group was significantly inhibited and was comparable with that in the sham group. In contrast, the RP group failed to inhibit BMD reduction. The plasma CTX level at the 28th day of the experiment was significantly increased in the RP and OVX groups compared with that in the sham group, while the increase was inhibited in the RA group. Morphometric analysis revealed that absorption of trabecular bone was strongly inhibited in the RA group. Conclusion: The inhibitory effects of reveromycin A administered immediately after ovariectomy was the most effective at the early phase of bone loss than at the later stage. A new reagent that inhibits bone loss in acute estrogen deficiency might be a new tool to experimentally study osteoporosis and may have clinical implications.

Effect of Post-space Preparation with Rotary Devices and Heated Instruments on Microbial Leakage of Gutta-percha and Resilon-Epiphany Obturated Canals

Introduction: After endodontic procedures, root canal reinfection is a main concern for dentists. However, application of a proper apical seal can prevent such contamination. Therefore, it seems necessary to study the factors affecting the development of a suitable apical seal. Materials and Methods: In this study, 64 extracted human single-canal premolars were used. An equal length of roots was obtained by cutting the crown. The teeth were randomly divided into four experimental groups of 15 premolars, as well as 2 positive and negative controls. The root canal was manually prepared using K-file and step back method through canal filling by lateral compaction technique. In GP and GH groups, gutta-percha and AH 26 sealer were used to fill the canals, while Resilon and Epiphany sealer were used in RP and RH groups, respectively. Then, to prepare the post space, Peeso Reamer drill was used in GP and RP groups while heat carrier was applied in GH and RH groups to prepare the post space, respectively. The coronal part of each root was contacted with enterococcus faecalis leachate in BHI medium and the root end was placed in the same culture medium. The samples were daily checked for turbidity in the lower culture medium for 90 days. The average duration of bacterial leakage between the groups wascompared using independent Student t-test. Results: All the positive control samples showed bacterial infiltration within 24 to 48 hours, while the negative control teeth remained uninfected during the test. Comparison of bacterial leakage rates between GP and GH groups showed no significant difference, which was similar to comparison results between RP and RH groups (P=0.549 and P=0.097, respectively). Comparison of bacterial leakage between GP and RP groups, as well as between GH and RH groups, showed a significant difference (P=0.018 and P<0.001, respectively), so that the average duration of leakage was significantly longer in the teeth obturated with gutta-percha/AH26 than with Resilon/Epiphany. There was a significant difference in root canal filler material regardless of the post space development method, i.e. heat carrier and Peeso Reamer (P<0.001). Conclusion: Considering the results of this study, the use of gutta-percha as a root filling material results in a better apical seal than Resilon. Application of heat carrier and Peeso Reamer showed no significant difference in effectiveness on the apical seal.