bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kidney function monitoring and nonvitamin K oral anticoagulant dosage in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Andreu Cayuelas Jose Manuel , Caro Martínez Cesar , Flores Blanco Pedro Jose , Elvira Ruiz Gines , Albendin Iglesias Helena , Cerezo Manchado Juan Jose , Bailen Lorenzo Jose Luis , Januzzi James L. , García Alberola Arcadio , Manzano‐Fernández Sergio
Published: February 2018

Background

Clinical practice guidelines recommend regular kidney function monitoring in atrial fibrillation patients on nonvitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOAC); however, information regarding compliance with these recommendations in daily life conditions is scarce. We sought to determine the compliance with kidney function monitoring recommendations in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients starting NOAC and its implication on the appropriateness of NOAC dosage.

Material and methods

This study involves the retrospective analysis of a multicentre registry including consecutive NVAF patients who started NOAC (n = 692). Drug dosage changes and serum creatinine determinations were recorded during 1‐year follow‐up. European Heart Rhythm Association criteria were used to define the appropriateness of kidney function monitoring as well as adequate NOAC dosage.

Results

During the follow‐up (334 ± 89 days), the compliance with kidney function monitoring recommendations was 61% (n = 425). After multivariate adjustment, age (OR × year: 0.92 (CI 95%: 0.89‐0.95) P < .001), creatinine clearance (OR × mL/min: 1.02 (CI 95%: 1.01‐1.03) P < .001) and adequate NOAC dosage at baseline (OR: 1.54 (CI 95%: 1.06‐2.23), P = .024) were independent predictors of appropriate kidney function monitoring. Compliance with kidney function monitoring recommendations was independently associated with change to appropriate NOAC dose after 1 year (OR: 2.80 (CI 95%: 1.01‐7.80), P = .049).

Conclusions

Noncompliance with kidney function monitoring recommendations is common in NVAF patients starting NOAC, especially in elderly patients with kidney dysfunction. Compliance with kidney function monitoring recommendations was associated with adequate NOAC dosage at 1‐year follow‐up. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the implication of kidney function monitoring on prognosis.
Relation of quality of anticoagulation control with different management systems among patients with atrial fibrillation: Data from FANTASIIA Registry
Authors: Roldán Rabadán Inmaculada , Esteve‐Pastor María Asunción , Anguita‐Sánchez Manuel , Muñiz Javier , Camacho Siles José , Quesada María Angustias , Ruiz Ortiz Martín , Marín Francisco , Martínez Sellés Manuel , Bertomeu Vicente , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Cequier Fillat Angel , Badimón Lina ,   the FANTASIIA Study Investigators
Published: February 2018

Background

Anticoagulation control in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) has a multidisciplinary approach although is usually managed by general practitioners (GP) or haematologists. The aim of our study was to assess the quality of anticoagulation control with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in relation to the responsible specialist in a “real‐world” AF population.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled VKA anticoagulated patients included in the FANTASIIA Registry from 2013 to 2015. We analysed demographical, clinical characteristics and the quality of anticoagulation control according to the specialist responsible (ie GPs or haematologists).

Results

Data on 1584 patients were included (42.5% females, mean age 74.0 ± 9.4 years): 977 (61.7%) patients were controlled by GPs and 607 (38.3%) by haematologists. Patients managed by GPs had higher previous heart disease (53.2% vs 43.3%, P < .001), heart failure (32.9% vs 26.5%, P < .008) and dilated cardiomyopathy (15.2% vs 8.7%, P < .001) with better renal function (69.3 ± 24.7 vs 63.1 ± 21.4 mL/min, P < .001) compared to patients managed by haematologists. There was no difference between groups in the type of AF, CHA2DS2‐VASc or HAS‐BLED scores, but patients with electrical cardioversion were more prevalent in GP group. The overall mean time in therapeutic range (TTR) assessed by Rosendaal method was 61.5 ± 24.9%; 52.6% of patients had TTR<65% and 60% of patients had TTR<70%. TTR was significantly lower in patients controlled by haematologists than by GPs (63 ± 24.4 vs 59.2 ± 25.6, P < .005).

Conclusions

About 60% of AF patients anticoagulated with VKAs had poor anticoagulation control (ie TTR<70%), and their management was only slightly better than when it is managed by general practitioners.
Impact of Mon2 monocyte‐platelet aggregates on human coronary artery disease
Authors: Brown Richard A. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Varma Chetan , Shantsila Eduard
Published: February 2018

Background

Monocyte‐platelet aggregates (MPAs) form when Mon1, Mon2 or Mon3 monocyte subsets adhere to platelets. They are pathophysiologically linked to coronary artery disease (CAD). However, their individual roles in the occurrence of diffuse CAD remain unknown.

Materials and methods

Peripheral blood from 50 patients with diffuse CAD, 40 patients with focal CAD and 50 age‐matched patients with normal coronary arteries was analysed by flow cytometry to quantify MPAs associated with individual monocyte subsets. Cutaneous forearm microcirculation was assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry at rest and after iontophoresis of acetylcholine (endothelium‐dependent vasodilation) and sodium nitroprusside (endothelium‐independent vasodilation) at 100 μA for 60 seconds. Patients with CAD had repeat assessment at 6 and 12 months.

Results

Baseline counts of MPAs with Mon2 subset (CD14++CD16+CC2+ monocytes) were significantly higher in patients with diffuse CAD compared to focal CAD (P = .001) and patients without CAD (P = .006). On multivariate regression, MPAs with Mon2 independently predicted diffuse CAD (odds ratio 1.10, 95% confidence interval 1.02‐1.19, P = .01) and correlated negatively with endothelium‐dependent microvascular vasodilation (r = −.37, P = .008), an association which persisted after adjustment for covariates. Longitudinal observation confirmed the persistence of an inverse relationship between MPAs with Mon2 and endothelium‐dependent microvascular function.

Conclusion

Monocyte‐platelet aggregates with Mon2 are increased in patients with diffuse CAD and therefore could represent an important contributor to accelerated coronary atherosclerotic progression by a mechanism involving microvascular endothelial dysfunction.
Functional components of public expenditure, fiscal consolidations, and economic activity
Authors: Castro Vítor
Published: February 2018

This paper analyses how the functional components of public expenditure and spending‐driven consolidations affect the economic growth, unemployment, and income inequality. A dynamic panel data least squares dummy variable estimator estimator is employed over a sample of 15 European Union countries during the period 1990–2012. The empirical results show that real GDP growth decreases when fiscal austerity measures are implemented, especially if they are spending‐driven. Cuts in public expenditure undermine economic growth, namely if they slash spending on public order, recreation, and education. Spending cuts on education, in particular, affect the investment in human capital, harming not only growth but also economic, social, and human development. The unemployment rate also proved to be significantly boosted when austerity measures restrict spending on education, whereas income inequality rises when social protection expenditures are cut.
A canker disease of apple caused by Cytospora parasitica recorded in China
Authors: Ma R. , Liu Y.‐M. , Yin Y.‐X. , Tian C.‐M.
Published: February 2018

A stem canker disease of apple that differs from previously reported canker diseases has been recorded in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China. Eight Cytospora strains obtained from diseased apple trees and inoculated onto healthy apple tree branches resulted in the development of the same disease symptoms. This pathogen formed conceptacles, which were multilocular pycnidia with common walls and a single ostiole. Comprehensive analysis of three DNA sequence regions (internal transcribed spacer, large ribosomal subunit and transcription elongation factor) and morphological and cultural characteristics revealed that these strains were most similar to the fungus Cytospora parasitica. This is the first report of C. parasitica causing canker disease of apple in China.
Effect of individual structured and qualified feedback on improving clinical performance of dental students in clinical courses‐randomised controlled study
Authors: Schüler I. M. , Heinrich‐Weltzien R. , Eiselt M.
Published: February 2018

Aim

Analysis of the effect of individual structured and qualified feedback (FB) on practical skills development of dental students during clinical courses.

Methods

Fifty‐three final‐year dental students at Jena University Hospital participated in this prospective randomised controlled interventional study. Two calibrated assessors evaluated 128 pre‐ and post‐assessments of 4 different dental treatment steps performed by dental students during the integrated clinical course in restorative dentistry and prosthodontics and the clinical course paediatric dentistry. The assessment included direct observation, graded and non‐grading evaluation and was documented with a specific FB assessment tool. Dental students in the intervention group (IG) received an elaborated, structured and qualified FB after the pre‐assessment that focussed on individual strengths and weaknesses, providing specific suggestions for improvement and establishing a personal learning goal. Participants were randomly allocated to the IG and the control group (CG).

Results

In both groups, dental students significantly enhanced their performance, but the difference was higher in the IG than in the CG. Large effect sizes (ES) were observed in all observed items, but FB had largest effect size in improving technical skills (ES = 1.6), followed by management (ES = 1.3) and communication skills (ES = 0.8). Factors with the highest influence on FB in enhancing dental students' clinical performance were their insight into their own mistakes or omissions, the observed dental treatment step and the duration of FB.

Conclusion

Individual structured and qualified FB is an effective method to enhance dental students' professional performances and to individually guide the learning process.
Tools for managing hydrologic alteration on a regional scale: Estimating changes in flow characteristics at ungauged sites
Authors: Sengupta Ashmita , Adams Stephen K. , Bledsoe Brian P. , Stein Eric D. , McCune Kenneth S. , Mazor Raphael D.
Published: February 2018

Hydrologic alteration is a predominant stressor for biological resources in streams. This stress is further aggravated by competing human and ecological demands for limited water resources. Understanding flow–ecology relationships and establishing relevant and implementable flow targets are essential to protect biological communities.

Estimating degree of ecologically relevant hydrologic alteration depends on the availability of long‐term flow data at sites with biological information. However, measured flow data are seldom available at sufficient density to support large‐scale analyses of the biological effects of hydrologic alterations. The ability to accurately simulate flows and estimate flow metrics at many ungauged locations across a broad geographical area remains a fundamental challenge.

We address this challenge by applying a novel technique to simulate flow regimes at any stream reach of interest by first developing an ensemble of regionally calibrated and validated hydrological models, and then using a selection tool to match the “best‐fit” model to ungauged stream reaches. An ensemble of 26 HEC‐HMS rainfall–runoff models were calibrated to represent the range of catchment conditions in the southern California region.

We developed current and historical flow regimes and a suite of flow metrics at 572 ungauged sites in southern California with bioassessment monitoring data. The flow metrics represent hydrograph characteristics of magnitude, timing, frequency, duration and variability. The flow metrics were estimated under three precipitation conditions—dry, wet and average. In addition, we estimated aggregated flow metrics for (dry + wet + average) condition. Hydrologic alteration was estimated as the deviation between the modelled current and historical flow metrics.

Approximately 79% of the region shows some degree of hydrologic alteration, and approximately 40% of the sites are estimated to be severely altered. Magnitude metrics tend to increase in response to urban and agricultural land uses, whereas the timing and duration metrics are mostly unchanged.

This mechanistic modelling approach demonstrates the feasibility of estimating flow alterations for ungauged catchments with relative ease of transferability over a broad geographical region. The continuous granular flow data allow for computation and consideration of metrics that may be applicable to a variety of ecological endpoints and consideration of a range of management trade‐offs.
Plant geographical range size and climate stability in China: Growth form matters
Authors: Xu Wubing , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Chen Guoke , Chen Bin , Huang Jihong , Ma Keping
Published: February 2018

Aim

Geographical variation of range size is thought to be linked to climate seasonality and Quaternary glacial–interglacial oscillations. In addition, the importance of long‐term climate stability is expected to be modulated by species' migration abilities. For plants, growth forms integrate traits that affect migration ability. Hence, we assess the relative importance of short‐ and long‐term climate stability for range size patterns in plants and whether long‐term stability is more important for more poorly migrating growth forms.

Location

China.

Time period

Last 21 ka.

Major taxa studied

Vascular plants.

Methods

A dataset including > 30,000 vascular plants was used to quantify geographical patterns of range size across China for all species and for eight growth forms separately. Spatial and non‐spatial regressions with information‐theoretical multi‐model selection were performed to estimate the explanatory importance of climate seasonality and climate‐change velocity from the Last Glacial Maximum to the present. The proportion of endemism for each growth form was also calculated.

Results

Large geographical range sizes were generally observed in regions with strong climate seasonality and high climate‐change velocity. The association between range size and velocity was stronger for perennial herbs and shrubs than for ferns, annual herbs, climbers and trees and stronger for small than for large trees; that is, more important for the growth forms with lower migration capacities. In line with this interpretation, growth forms strongly influenced by velocity also tend to have high proportions of endemism, which is also consistent with a relatively low ability to migrate.

Main conclusions

Range size patterns of vascular plants in China are shaped by both climate seasonality and long‐term climate stability, even though the region had a relatively mild influence from the Pleistocene glaciations, with a stronger influence of palaeoclimate stability on more poorly migrating groups. The differential influences of palaeoclimate stability across growth forms suggest that it needs further attention in research and management and that different growth forms are likely to respond in different ways to future climate changes.
Mutations at multiple CDK phosphorylation consensus sites on Cdt2 increase the affinity of CRL4Cdt2 for PCNA and its ubiquitination activity in S phase
Authors: Nukina Kohei , Hayashi Akiyo , Shiomi Yasushi , Sugasawa Kaoru , Ohtsubo Motoaki , Nishitani Hideo
Published: February 2018

CRL4Cdt2 ubiquitin ligase plays an important role maintaining genome integrity during the cell cycle. A recent report suggested that Cdk1 negatively regulates CRL4Cdt2 activity through phosphorylation of its receptor, Cdt2, but the involvement of phosphorylation remains unclear. To address this, we mutated all CDK consensus phosphorylation sites located in the C‐terminal half region of Cdt2 (Cdt2‐18A) and examined the effect on substrate degradation. We show that both cyclinA/Cdk2 and cyclinB/Cdk1 phosphorylated Cdt2 in vitro and that phosphorylation was reduced by the 18A mutation both in vitro and in vivo. The 18A mutation increased the affinity of Cdt2 to PCNA, and a high amount of Cdt2‐18A was colocalized with PCNA foci during S phase in comparison with Cdt2‐WT. Poly‐ubiquitination activity to Cdt1 was concomitantly enhanced in cells expressing Cdt2‐18A. Other CRL4Cdt2 substrates, Set8 and thymine DNA glycosylase, begin to accumulate around late S phase to G2 phase, but the accumulation was prevented in Cdt2‐18A cells. Furthermore, mitotic degradation of Cdt1 after UV irradiation was induced in these cells. Our results suggest that CDK‐mediated phosphorylation of Cdt2 inactivates its ubiquitin ligase activity by reducing its affinity to PCNA, an important strategy for regulating the levels of key proteins in the cell cycle.
Rhinoceros Auklet pair‐mates migrate independently but synchronize their foraging activity during the pre‐laying period
Authors: Kubo Aina , Takahashi Akinori , Thiebot Jean‐Baptiste , Watanuki Yutaka
Published: February 2018

Pair bonds are considered important for successful breeding in monogamous birds but their maintenance may be challenging for migratory species, as mates can be separated for months during the non‐breeding period. To investigate whether mates of monogamous migratory seabirds stay together throughout the non‐breeding period and how and when they start synchronizing their activity before breeding, we tracked seven pairs and 22 individuals of Rhinoceros AukletsCerorhinca monoceratawith geolocators and saltwater immersion loggers. Mates migrated across similar areas during the non‐breeding period but with a sustained temporal shift, putting them an average of 377 km apart and resulting in an average difference of return date at the colony of 5.6 days, with no sex biases. These values did not differ significantly from those between ‘pairs’ of randomly selected, non‐mated birds. Mates showed synchronized on‐water/in‐air at‐sea activities once both birds returned and spent the first night together at the colony. The synchronization of activities was highest on the day following the nights when both mates visited the colony, and decreased with elapsed time. Mates then left the colony together for a pre‐laying exodus of 8–9 days and males returned 2–4 days earlier than females before incubation started. Mates kept synchronizing at‐sea activity during the early part of the exodus. We interpret this as the mates staying together at sea during the pre‐laying period, increasing the males’ chances of copulation at sea. The patterns of mate association observed in Rhinoceros Auklets contrast with those of the Procellariiformes, presumably reflecting differences in the place and timing of copulation.
A microRNA‐1 gene, tci‐miR‐1‐3p, is involved in cyflumetofen resistance by targeting a glutathione S‐transferase gene, TCGSTM4, in Tetranychus cinnabarinus
Authors: Zhang Y. , Feng K. , Hu J. , Shi L. , Wei P. , Xu Z. , Shen G. , Li M. , Xu Q. , He L.
Published: February 2018

microRNA‐1 (miR‐1) is a well‐studied conservative microRNA (miRNA) involved in immune responses in mammals and insects. However, little is known about its role in pesticide resistance in arthropods. In this study, we found that a microRNA belong to miR‐1 family (tci‐miR‐1‐3p) was significantly down‐regulated in a cyflumetofen‐resistant strain (CYR) of Tetranychus cinnabarinus compared with its homologous susceptible strain (SS), indicating an involvement of miR‐1 in cyflumetofen resistance in mites. One glutathione S‐transferase (GST) gene (TCGSTM4, a mu class GST gene), a candidate target gene of tci‐miR‐1‐3p, was found to be significantly down‐regulated when tci‐miR‐1‐3p was over‐expressed. The specific interaction between tci‐miR‐1‐3p and the target sequence in the 3′ untranslated region of TCGSTM4 was confirmed. A decrease or increase in tci‐miR‐1‐3p abundance through feeding miRNA inhibitors or mimics significantly increased or decreased TCGSTM4 expressions at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. In addition, an over‐expression of tci‐miR‐1‐3p resulted in a decrease in the tolerance of T. cinnabarinus to cyflumetofen in both SS and CYR strains, and vice versa. After decreasing TCGSTM4 transcription via RNA interference, T. cinnabarinus became more sensitive to cyflumetofen in both resistant and susceptible mites, and the change in mortality was greater in CYR than that in SS. Moreover, the recombinant TCGSTM4 could significantly decompose cyflumetofen, indicating that TCGSTM4 is a functional gene responsible for cyflumetofen resistance in mites.
Perpetual complexity: predicting human CD8+ T‐cell responses to pathogenic peptides
Authors: Di Carluccio Anthony R , Triffon Cristina F , Chen Weisan
Published: February 2018

The accurate prediction of human CD8+ T‐cell epitopes has great potential clinical and translational implications in the context of infection, cancer and autoimmunity. Prediction algorithms have traditionally focused on calculated peptide affinity for the binding groove of MHC‐I. However, over the years it has become increasingly clear that the ultimate T‐cell recognition of MHC‐I‐bound peptides is governed by many contributing factors within the complex antigen presentation pathway. Recent advances in next‐generation sequencing and immunnopeptidomics have increased the precision of HLA‐I sub‐allele classification, and have led to the discovery of peptide processing events and individual allele‐specific binding preferences. Here, we review some of the discoveries that initiated the development of peptide prediction algorithms, and outline some of the current available online tools for CD8+ T‐cell epitope prediction.
Human MAIT cells show metabolic quiescence with rapid glucose‐dependent upregulation of granzyme B upon stimulation
Authors: Zinser Madeleine E , Highton Andrew J , Kurioka Ayako , Kronsteiner Barbara , Hagel Joachim , Leng Tianqi , Marchi Emanuele , Phetsouphanh Chansavath , Willberg Chris B , Dunachie Susanna J , Klenerman Paul
Published: February 2018

Mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are a well‐characterized innate‐like T cell population abundant in the human liver, peripheral tissues and blood. MAIT cells serve in the first line of defense against infections, through engagement of their T cell receptor, which recognizes microbial metabolites presented on MR1, and through cytokine‐mediated triggering. Typically, they show a quiescent memory phenotype but can undergo rapid upregulation of effector functions including cytolysis upon stimulation. T cells profoundly change their cellular metabolism during their maturation and activation. We sought to determine how MAIT cell metabolism may facilitate both the long‐term memory phase in tissue and the transition to rapid effector function. Here, we show, by flow cytometric metabolism assays and extracellular flux analysis that, despite an effector‐memory profile, human MAIT cells are metabolically quiescent in a resting state comparable to naïve and central memory T cells. Upon stimulation, they rapidly increase uptake of glucose and show a concomitant upregulation of the effector molecules notably granzyme B, which is impaired by inhibition of glycolysis with 2‐deoxyglucose. These findings suggest that MAIT cells share some metabolic characteristics of both resting and effector T cell subsets, with a rapid transition upon triggering. Metabolic programming of this cell type may be of interest in understanding and modulating their function in infectious diseases and cancer.
An activity theory study of data, knowledge, and power in the design of an international development NGO impact evaluation
Authors: Kelly Paul Richard
Published: February 2018

International development is now a data‐, information‐, and knowledge‐intensive industry, which some have characterised as “development 2.0.” Power relations are rarely foregrounded in this landscape, even though they shape what data and knowledge is constructed or discarded. Impact evaluation is one example of this intensive work, yet evaluation models seldom make power relations explicit or actionable. Furthermore, implicit models of data and knowledge on which impact evaluation processes rely also neglect power and social practice. The resulting problem is that power remains silent in development impact evaluation practice. In response, this article articulates an alternative, using Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) to analyse impact evaluation activities conducted by a UK‐based philanthropic donor and their grantee in India, a small non‐government organisation (NGO) doing rural development work. The analysis uses CHAT to illustrate how impact data, knowledge, and power are simultaneously generated during professional evaluation activities. The study broadens our view of impact and offers two contributions. Firstly, for researchers in information and communications technology for development (ICT4D) and knowledge management for development (KM4D), it contributes the application of a perspective on social practice, CHAT, to development evaluation. A novel extension to CHAT, the concept of “temporal activity chains,” is put forward to complement the established activity system frame. Secondly, the article demonstrates a practice‐based view of development impact evaluation for researchers and practitioners who wish to acknowledge and respond to the generation of unequal power dynamics during evaluation processes.
Learning monotone preferences using a majority rule sorting model
Authors: Sobrie Olivier , Mousseau Vincent , Pirlot Marc
Published: February 2018

We consider the problem of learning a function assigning objects into ordered categories. The objects are described by a vector of attribute values and the assignment function is monotone w.r.t. the attribute values (monotone sorting problem). Our approach is based on a model used in multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA), called MR‐Sort. This model determines the assigned class on the basis of a majority rule and an artificial object that is a typical lower profile of the category. MR‐Sort is a simplified variant of the ELECTRE TRI method. We describe an algorithm designed for learning such a model on the basis of assignment examples. We compare its performance with choquistic regression, a method recently proposed in the preference learning community, and with UTADIS, another MCDA method leaning on an additive value function (utility) model. Our experimentation shows that MR‐Sort competes with the other two methods, and leads to a model that is interpretable.
Outcomes for design and learning when teenagers with autism codesign a serious game: A pilot study
Authors: Bossavit B. , Parsons S.
Published: February 2018

Digital educational games research tends to lack ecological validity by not adequately taking into account the views and perspectives of children and young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This paper is a pilot study that explores and analyses an academic‐based educational game that was co‐designed with and for young people with ASD. The serious game aims to help the players learn Geography‐specific knowledge and integrates several strategic features so that users can collaborate together against the computer or compete against each other. The educational game was evaluated over 5 sessions by 3 peer teams from 2 different special educational institutions, involving a total of 6 students with ASD. The participants were positive about their enjoyment, motivation, and social engagement. The results showed that the players' level of competitiveness not only influenced the experience within the game but also the interaction within the peer teams. The game mechanisms did help the participants with ASD increase their knowledge in Geography content. The main conclusion is that there are considerable benefits of including children with ASD in the design process and future research should explore more fully on how their involvement can enhance curriculum‐based learning as well as social engagement within the classroom.
Cigarette smoking causes a worse long‐term outcome in persistent atrial fibrillation following catheter ablation
Authors: Cheng Wen‐Han , Lo Li‐Wei , Lin Yenn‐Jiang , Chang Shih‐Lin , Hu Yu‐Feng , Hung Yuan , Chung Fa‐Po , Chang Ting‐Yung , Huang Ting‐Chung , Yamada Shinya , Salim Simon , Te Abigail Louise D. , Liao Jo‐Nan , Tuan Ta‐Chuan , Chao Tze‐Fan , Tsai Tseng‐Ying , Liu Shin‐Huei , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Cigarette smoking contributes to the development of atrial fibrosis via nicotine. The impact of smoking on ablation results in persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown. We aimed to investigate the triggers and long‐term outcome between smokers and nonsmokers in the patients with persistent AF after catheter ablation.

Methods

This study included 201 (177 males, 53 ± 10 years old) patients who received index catheter ablation, including pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAEs) ablation for persistent AF, retrospectively. Electrophysiological characteristics at the index procedure and long‐term outcome were investigated to determine the differences between smokers and nonsmokers.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between two groups. Pulmonary vein (PV) triggers were found in all patients in the two groups. There was a higher incidence of nonpulmonary vein (NPV) triggers in smokers than in nonsmokers (61% vs. 31%, P < 0.05). There were no differences of the long‐term ablation outcomes between smokers and nonsmokers in Kaplan–Meier analysis. Smokers with PV plus right atrial NPV (RA‐NPV) triggers had a higher incidence of recurrence (log‐rank P < 0.05) than those without RA‐NPV triggers, but not in nonsmokers, after a mean follow‐up of 31 ± 25 months.

Conclusions

Smoking increases the incidence of NPV triggers in patients with persistent AF. Smokers who have RA‐NPV triggers during index procedure do have a worse outcome after catheter ablation, indicating the harmful effects of nicotine to right atrium.
Physiological status ofDrosophila suzukii(Diptera: Drosophilidae) affects their response to attractive odours
Authors: Wong J. S. , Wallingford A. K. , Loeb G. M. , Lee J. C.
Published: February 2018

An improved understanding of the biology of the invasive pest,Drosophila suzukii(Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), is critical for the development of effective management strategies. Trapping is one technique used for both detection and control; however, the efficacy of trapping can vary depending on the target insect's physiological state, its behavioural priorities and the type of attractant used in the trap. We conducted a series of caged trapping experiments and a greenhouse trapping experiment to investigate the effects ofD. suzukiifeeding status, age, mating status, ovipositional status and seasonal morph type on the capture rate of traps baited with fermentation odours. Starved flies were trapped at greater rates compared to fed flies; more virgin flies were trapped than mated flies; flies deprived of an oviposition substrate were trapped more frequently than flies given an oviposition substrate. It is still unclear whether age or seasonal morphology affect bait response. Lastly, a caged choice experiment investigated the relationship between female reproductive status and attraction to fermentation or fruit odours. Fermentation‐based traps captured female flies regardless of their reproductive status but, ripe fruit‐based traps were more attractive to flies with more than seven eggs. In summary, studies that use fermentation‐based traps should recognize that capture rates ofD. suzukiiwill depend on the feeding, mating and oviposition experiences of the population; also, fruit‐based traps may better target gravid females.
Construction and evaluation of type III secretion system mutants of the catfish pathogen Edwardsiella piscicida
Authors: Edrees A , Abdelhamed H , Nho S W , Park S B , Karsi A , Austin F W , Essa M , Pechan T , Lawrence M L
Published: February 2018

Catfish is the largest aquaculture industry in the United States. Edwardsiellosis is considered one of the most significant problems affecting this industry. Edwardsiella piscicida is a newly described species within the genus Edwardsiella, and it was previously classified as Edwardsiella tarda. It causes gastrointestinal septicaemia, primarily in summer months, in farmed channel catfish in the south‐eastern United States. In the current study, we adapted gene deletion methods used for Edwardsiella to E. piscicida strain C07‐087, which was isolated from a disease outbreak in a catfish production pond. Four genes encoding structural proteins in the type III secretion system (T3SS) apparatus of E. piscicida were deleted by homologous recombination and allelic exchange to produce in‐frame deletion mutants (EpΔssaV, EpΔesaM, EpΔyscR and EpΔescT). The mutants were phenotypically characterized, and virulence and vaccine efficacy were evaluated. Three of the mutants, EpΔssaV, EpΔyscR and EpΔesaM, were significantly attenuated compared to the parent strain (p < .05), but EpΔescT strain was not. Vaccination of catfish with the four mutant strains (EpΔssaV, EpΔesaM, EpΔyscR and EpΔescT) provided significant protection when subsequently challenged with wild‐type strain. In conclusion, we report methods for gene deletion in E. piscicida and development of vaccine candidates derived from a virulent catfish isolate.
Sub‐epithelial connective tissue graft for the management of Miller's class I and class II isolated gingival recession defect: A systematic review of the factors influencing the outcome
Authors: Yadav Anisha P. , Kulloli Anita , Shetty Sharath , Ligade Shruti S. , Martande Santosh S. , Gholkar Meenakshi J.
Published: February 2018

The aim of the present systematic review was to analyze the factors that affect the outcome of subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) for managing Miller's class I and class II isolated gingival recession defect. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews were used. Quality assessments of selected articles were performed. Data on root surface condition, recession type defect, flap thickness, different flap designs, different harvesting techniques, presence/absence of the epithelial collar, graft thickness, flap tension, suturing techniques, and smoking‐related outcomes on root coverage were assessed. The SCTG procedure provides the best root coverage outcomes for Miller's class I and class II recession. The critical threshold of flap thickness was found to be 1 mm. Maximum root coverage was achieved by envelope and modified tunnel technique. SCTG with the epithelial collar does not provide additional gains than SCTG without the epithelial collar. The thickness of SCTG for root coverage was found to be 1.5‐2 mm. Greater flap tension and smoking adversely affect root coverage outcomes. Analysis of the factors discussed would be of key importance for technique selection, and a combined approach involving factors favoring outcomes of SCTG could be of clinical relevance in recession coverage.
Early CALP2 expression and microglial activation are potential inducers of spinal IL‐6 up‐regulation and bilateral pain following motor nerve injury
Authors: Chen Shao‐Xia , Wang Shao‐Kun , Yao Pei‐Wen , Liao Guang‐Jie , Na Xiao‐Dong , Li Yong‐Yong , Zeng Wei‐an , Liu Xian‐Guo , Zang Ying
Published: February 2018

Previous work from our laboratory showed that motor nerve injury by lumbar 5 ventral root transection (L5‐VRT) led to interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) over‐expression in bilateral spinal cord, and that intrathecal administration of IL‐6 neutralizing antibody delayed the induction of mechanical allodynia in bilateral hind paws. However, early events and upstream mechanisms underlying spinal IL‐6 expression following L5‐VRT require elucidation. The model of L5‐VRT was used to induce neuropathic pain, which was assessed with von Frey hairs and the plantar tester in adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Calpain‐2 (CALP2, a calcium‐dependent protease) knockdown or over‐expression and microglia depletion were conducted intrathecally. Western blots and immunohistochemistry were performed to explore the possible mechanisms. Here, we provide the first evidence that both IL‐6 and CALP2 levels are increased in lumbar spinal cord within 30 min following L5‐VRT. IL‐6 and CALP2 co‐localized in both spinal dorsal horn (SDH) and spinal ventral horn. Post‐operative (PO) increase in CALP2 in ipsilateral SDH was evident at 10 min PO, preceding increased IL‐6 at 20 min PO. Knockdown of spinal CALP2 by intrathecal CALP2‐shRNA administration prevented VRT‐induced IL‐6 overproduction in ipsilateral spinal cord and alleviated bilateral mechanical allodynia. Spinal microglia activation also played a role in early IL‐6 up‐regulation. Macrophage/microglia markers ED1/Iba1 were increased at 30 min PO, while glial fibrillary acidic protein (astrocyte) and CNPase (oligodendrocyte) markers were not. Increased Iba1 was detected as early as 20 min PO and peaked at 3 days. Morphology changed from a small soma with fine processes in resting cells to an activated ameboid shape. Depletion of microglia using Mac‐1‐saporin partially prevented IL‐6 up‐regulation and attenuated VRT‐induced bilateral mechanical allodynia. Taken together, our findings provide evidence that increased spinal cord CALP2 and microglia cell activation may have early causative roles in IL‐6 over‐expression following motor nerve injury. Agents that inhibit CALP2 and/or microglia activation may therefore prove valuable for treating neuropathic pain.

image
Perinatal high fat diet and early life methyl donor supplementation alter one carbon metabolism and DNA methylation in the brain
Authors: McKee Sarah E. , Zhang Sisi , Chen Li , Rabinowitz Joshua D. , Reyes Teresa M.
Published: February 2018

One carbon metabolism is regulated by the availability of nutrients known as methyl donors, and disruption of this pathway can affect multiple physiological systems. DNA methylation, critical for the regulation of gene expression, is linked to one carbon metabolism, and can be altered by perinatal diet. In this study, dams (n = 12/group) were fed HF or standard control (SC) diet through pregnancy and lactation, and male and female offspring were then fed either SC or methyl donor‐supplemented diet (MDS) between 3 and 6 weeks of age (n = 20–26/group). Concentration of one carbon intermediates and other related metabolites were assessed within brain tissue (prefrontal cortex, PFC) through the use of mass spectrometry at 6 weeks of age. In addition, the expression of target genes and enzymes that participate in DNA methylation or are relevant to one carbon metabolism were measured. We found that MDS increases the concentration of folate intermediates in the PFC, and that this increase is blunted in male offspring from dams fed a HF diet. In addition, perinatal HF diet increased the concentration of cysteine in the PFC of both male and female offspring, consistent with oxidative stress. Furthermore, both maternal HF diet and postnatal MDS altered global DNA methylation in the PFC in males but not females. Collectively, these data demonstrate sex differences in changes in one carbon metabolites in the prefrontal cortex in response to early life high fat diet and methyl donor supplementation.

image

Read the Editorial Highlight for this article on page 358
Timing of prenatal exposure to trauma and altered placental expressions of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis genes and genes driving neurodevelopment
Authors: Zhang W. , Li Q. , Deyssenroth M. , Lambertini L. , Finik J. , Ham J. , Huang Y. , Tsuchiya K. J. , Pehme P. , Buthmann J. , Yoshida S. , Chen J. , Nomura Y.
Published: February 2018

Prenatal maternal stress increases the risk for negative developmental outcomes in offspring; however, the underlying biological mechanisms remain largely unexplored. In the present study, alterations in placental gene expression associated with maternal stress were examined to clarify the potential underlying epi/genetic mechanisms. Expression levels of 40 selected genes involved in regulating foetal hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis and neurodevelopment were profiled in placental tissues collected from a birth cohort established around the time of Superstorm Sandy. Objective prenatal traumatic stress was defined as whether mothers were exposed to Superstorm Sandy during pregnancy. Among the 275 mother‐infant dyads, 181 dyads were delivered before Superstorm Sandy (ie, Control), 66 dyads were exposed to Superstorm Sandy during the first trimester (ie, Early Exposure) and 28 were exposed to Superstorm Sandy during the second or third trimester (ie, Mid‐Late Exposure). Across all trimesters, expression of HSD11B2, MAOA, ZNF507 and DYRK1A was down‐regulated among those exposed to Superstorm Sandy during pregnancy. Furthermore, trimester‐specific differences were also observed: exposure during early gestation was associated with down‐regulation of HSD11B1 and MAOB and up‐regulation of CRHBP; exposure during mid‐late gestation was associated with up‐regulation of SRD5A3. The findings of the present study suggest that placental gene expression may be altered in response to traumatic stress exposure during pregnancy, and the susceptibility of these genes is dependent on the time of the exposure during pregnancy. Further studies should aim to clarify the biological mechanisms that underlie trimester‐specific exposure by evaluating the differential impact on offspring neurodevelopment later in childhood.
Neuropsychological differentiation of progressive aphasic disorders
Authors: Harris Jennifer M. , Saxon Jennifer A. , Jones Matthew , Snowden Julie S. , Thompson Jennifer C.
Published: February 2018

The differentiation of subtypes of primary progressive aphasia (PPA) remains challenging. We aimed to identify optimum neuropsychological measures for characterizing PPA, to examine the relationship between behavioural change and subtypes of PPA and to determine whether characteristic profiles of language, working memory, and behavioural changes occur in PPA. Forty‐seven patients with PPA and multi‐domain Alzheimer's disease (AD) together with 19 age‐matched controls underwent a large battery of working memory and language tests. We found that simple tasks of sentence ordering, narrative production, and buccofacial praxis were particularly useful in differentiating non‐fluent/agrammatic variant PPA (nfvPPA) from other PPA subtypes, whereas a test of single word comprehension was useful in detecting semantic dementia (SD). No individual tests were discriminating for logopenic variant PPA (lvPPA) relative to nfvPPA. LvPPA and multidomain AD exhibited similar language profiles. A principal components analysis revealed that characteristic PPA profiles extended beyond the realms of language, in particular, the presence of apraxia in nfvPPA, behavioural changes in SD, and working memory deficits in lvPPA. These findings suggest that not all tests are equally discriminatory for PPA and highlight the importance of a test profile in differentiating PPA. These results also support the view that lvPPA is a focal form of AD and emphasize the difficulties classifying lvPPA.
An integrative review exploring the perceptions of patients and healthcare professionals towards patient involvement in promoting hand hygiene compliance in the hospital setting
Authors: Alzyood Mamdooh , Jackson Debra , Brooke Joanne , Aveyard Helen
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To review patients’ and healthcare professionals’ perceptions of patient involvement in promoting hand hygiene compliance in the hospital setting.

Background

Initiatives continue to emphasise the importance of involving patients in their safety at the point of care. A patient‐centred care approach aimed to empower patients to become active members of the healthcare team. However, understanding the perceptions of patients and healthcare professionals of patient involvement in promoting hand hygiene compliance among healthcare professionals has yet to be fully explored.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Methods

A five‐stage review process informed by Whittemore and Knafl's methodology was conducted. MEDLINE and CINAHL were searched for papers published between January 2009–July 2017. Data were extracted manually, organised using NVivo 11 and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

From an identified 240 papers, 19 papers were included in this review. Thematic analysis revealed two main themes with three related subthemes. Patients were willing to remind healthcare professionals (especially nurses) to wash their hands, healthcare professionals perception towards patients’ involvement varied from one study to another. However, an overall positive attitude towards patient involvement was related to how patients asked and how healthcare professionals responded to being asked.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence regarding patients’ actual intention to ask healthcare professionals to wash their hands, and some evidence that patients are reluctant to do so. Further research is required to understand this area thoroughly, including which situations patients would feel more empowered to speak up.

Relevance to clinical practice

Simple messages promoting patient involvement may lead to complex reactions in both patients and healthcare professionals. It is unclear, yet how patients and staff react to such messages in clinical practice. There is a need for a deeper understanding of how they can work together to support harm free care.
Redefining the Corporation for a Sustainable New Economy
Authors: Sjåfjell Beate
Published: February 2018

‘Business as usual’ is a very certain path towards a very uncertain future. On the ‘business as usual’ trajectory, the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), epitomizing the overarching goals of global society, is unlikely. A fundamental transition away from ‘business as usual’ and onto a sustainable path is necessary. However, the SDGs themselves do not seem informed by a recognition of a potential conflict between indefinite economic growth and planetary boundaries. This article posits that this is symptomatic of our economic system, and turns to the dominant business form – the corporation – to discuss its significance as a barrier to and potential as a driver for sustainability. Drawing on multi‐jurisdictional, comparative research, the article presents a reform proposal, challenging the shareholder‐primacy drive, and ending on a positive note with the potential of corporate contribution to systemic change.
Telling Stories Beautifully: Hybrid Legal Forms in the New Economy
Authors: Morgan Bronwen
Published: February 2018

This article explores the expressive and constitutive dimensions of hybrid legal forms emerging as vehicles for grass‐roots innovations that seek to forge renewed economic trajectories. Drawing on a relational perspective, it analyses company constitutions, and crowdfunding offers based on them. It explores the ways in which the practices of forming a legal entity and raising finance to support its growth relate to a broader narrative of creating initiatives for a sustainable economy, one that radically reworks the priority of social and environmental objectives in economic organizations. A closer examination of three specific initiatives from Australia illustrates the ways in which dynamic engagement with legal form can enable, loosen or magnify relationality. This approach helps illuminate the ways in which formal legal structure for economic enterprise is both an inherently regulatory vehicle, but also a site for the mediation and stabilization of patterns of exchange.