bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of glucocorticoids on noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission within the basolateral amygdala and dentate gyrus during morphine withdrawal place aversion
Authors: García‐Pérez Daniel , Milanés Maria Victoria
Published: February 2019

Aversive memories related to drug withdrawal can generate a motivational state leading to compulsive drug taking. However, the mechanisms underlying the generation of these withdrawal memories remain unclear. Limbic structures, such as the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus, play a crucial role in the negative affective component of morphine withdrawal. Given the prominent role of glucocorticoids (GCs), noradrenaline (NA), and dopamine (DA) in memory‐related processes, in the present study, we employed the conditioned place aversion (CPA) paradigm to uncover the role of GCs on NA and DA neurotransmission within the BLA and NA neurotransmission within the DG during opiate‐withdrawal conditioning (memory formation consolidation), and after reexposure to the conditioned environment (memory retrieval). We observed that adrenalectomy impaired naloxone‐induced CPA. Memory retrieval was associated with an increase in dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) levels in the BLA in morphine‐addicted animals in a GC‐independent manner. Importantly, NA turnover was related with the expression of withdrawal physical signs during the conditioning phase and with locomotor activity during the test phase. On the other hand, reduced DA concentration in the BLA was correlated with the CPA score. Our results indicate that while noradrenergic system is more associated with the somatic consequences of withdrawal, dopaminergic neurotransmission modulates the affective state. Nevertheless, it seems necessary that both systems work together with GCs to enable aversive‐memory formation and recall.
Posterior sampling in two classes of multivariate fractionally integrated models: corrigendum to Ravishanker, N. and B. K. Ray (1997) Australian Journal of Statistics 39 (3), 295–311
Authors: Doppelt Ross , O'Hara Keith
Published: February 2019

We discuss posterior sampling for two distinct multivariate generalisations of the univariate autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model with fractional integration. The existing approach to Bayesian estimation, introduced by Ravishanker & Ray, claims to provide a posterior‐sampling algorithm for fractionally integrated vector autoregressive moving averages (FIVARMAs). We show that this algorithm produces posterior draws for vector autoregressive fractionally integrated moving averages (VARFIMAs), a model of independent interest that has not previously received attention in the Bayesian literature.
School performance is age appropriate with support services in very preterm children at 11 years of age
Authors: Nyman Anna , Korhonen Tapio , Lehtonen Liisa , Haataja Leena ,   on behalf of the PIPARI Study Group
Published: February 2019

Aim

This Finnish regional birth‐cohort study compared the school performance of very preterm and full‐term children when they reached 11 years of age.

Methods

Teachers rated the educational abilities of 123 preterm children and 133 full‐term controls at the age of 11 years as well as the support services they received. The children were all born in the Turku University Hospital between 2001 and 2005. In the preterm group, neurosensory impairments were confirmed at two years of corrected age, and full‐scale intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed at 11 years of age using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition.

Results

Educational abilities, including academic skills and classroom functioning, did not differ between the two groups after excluding the children with a full‐scale IQ < 70. However, 40% of the preterm group and 26% of the controls had received at least one support service (p <0.02). The 13 preterm children with a full‐scale IQ <70 and the 10 with neurosensory impairment received more support services. Boys in both groups displayed more classroom‐functioning problems than girls.

Conclusion

A full‐scale IQ ≥ 70 and age‐appropriate educational abilities do not exclude a significant need for support services in very preterm children at the age of 11 years.
Optimised infliximab monotherapy is as effective as optimised combination therapy, but is associated with higher drug consumption in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Drobne David , Kurent Tina , Golob Saša , Švegl Polona , Rajar Polona , Hanžel Jurij , Koželj Matic , Novak Gregor , Smrekar Nataša , Ferkolj Ivan , Štabuc Borut
Published: February 2019

Background

Combination treatment with azathioprine for 6‐12 months is the preferred strategy for starting infliximab due to improved pharmacokinetics. However, optimised infliximab monotherapy with proactive dose escalations in case of low trough levels is a safer but under‐studied alternative.

Aim

To compare the clinical success and infliximab consumption of combination vs optimised monotherapy strategies.

Methods

We studied the clinical success and infliximab consumption of both strategies in 149 patients (94 Crohn's disease; 55 ulcerative colitis) starting infliximab and undergoing intensive drug monitoring assisted treatment optimisation.

Results

The drug retention rates were similar for optimised monotherapy and combination treatment after induction (96% vs 97%, P = 0.73), after the first year (90% vs 83%, P = 0.23) and at the end of follow‐up (74% vs 75%, P = 0.968). Similarly, no differences were observed for steroid use at year 1 (5% vs 14%, P = 0.08) or mucosal healing at the end of follow‐up (64% vs 67%, P = 0.8). Higher infliximab consumption (7.6 mg/kg q8 weeks [interquartile range (IQR): 5.9‐10.3] vs 6.4 mg/kg q8 weeks [IQR: 5.2‐8.0], P = 0.019) combined with lower trough levels (1.7 µg/mL [IQR: 0.3‐6.6] vs 5.0 µg/mL [2.5‐8.7], P = 0.012) resulted in almost 3‐fold higher drug‐to‐trough ratio (3.9 vs 1.5) in monotherapy compared to combination strategy at year 1. At the end of follow‐up, when azathioprine had been discontinued for a median of 14 [IQR: 3‐33] months, these differences disappeared.

Conclusions

In this study, optimised infliximab monotherapy was as clinically effective as combination therapy but was associated with significantly higher infliximab consumption. The infliximab‐sparing effect disappeared after azathioprine withdrawal.
Safety of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with antiplatelet therapy: Lessons from more than 800 operations in a single tertiary referral institution
Authors: Sakamoto Yusuke , Fujikawa Takahisa , Kawamura Yuichiro
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The perioperative antiplatelet management of patients receiving antiplatelet therapy (APT) for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is still controversial.

Methods

A total of 808 patients who underwent elective LC were reviewed. We classified patients in this cohort into three groups according to thromboembolic risks: patients with no thromboembolic risk (non‐APT group, n = 653), patients with low thromboembolic risk (APT‐LR group, n = 106), patients with high thromboembolic risk (APT‐HR group, n = 49). Our perioperative management of patients with high thrombotic risks included preoperative continuation of single aspirin therapy and early postoperative reinstitution. We assessed intraoperative and postoperative bleeding/thrombotic events among three groups. Primary outcome measures were intraoperative bleeding complications (IBCs, blood loss 200 mL or more) and postoperative bleeding complications (PBCs), and the independent risk factors for increased IBC were determined by multivariate analysis. This study was approved by our institutional review board (#17011804).

Results

In the current cohort, IBC occurred in 17 (2.1%) patients. Postoperatively, there were three PBCs (0.4%) and two thromboembolic complications (TCs, 0.2%), respectively. The occurrences of IBC and TC did not show any significant difference between the three groups, but PBC was more common in the APT‐LR group (P = 0.022). Multivariate analysis showed that only chronic cholecystitis was the independent risk factor for IBC (P < 0.001, odds ratio = 12.355), but preoperative continuation of APT or multiple APT use did not affect IBC.

Conclusion

We performed elective LC safely in patients receiving APT under rigorous perioperative management of APT. Continuation of aspirin monotherapy is considered in patients with APT during elective LC.
Whole‐genome resequencing to identify candidate genes for the QTL for oleic acid percentage in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Kawaguchi Fuki , Kigoshi Hiroto , Fukushima Moriyuki , Iwamoto Eiji , Kobayashi Eiji , Oyama Kenji , Mannen Hideyuki , Sasazaki Shinji
Published: February 2019

In our previous study, we detected a QTL for the oleic acid percentage (C18:1) on BTA9 in Japanese Black cattle through a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). In this study, we performed whole‐genome resequencing on eight animals with higher and lower C18:1 to identify candidate polymorphisms for the QTL. A total of 39,658 polymorphisms were detected in the candidate region, which were narrowed to 1993 polymorphisms within 23 genes based on allele differences between the high and low C18:1 groups. We subsequently selected three candidate genes, that is, CYB5R4, MED23, and VNN1, among the 23 genes based on their function in fatty acid metabolism. In each candidate gene, three SNPs, that is, CYB5R4 c.*349G > T, MED23 c.3700G > A, and VNN1 c.197C > T, were selected as candidate SNPs to verify their effect on C18:1 in a Japanese Black cattle population (n = 889). The statistical analysis showed that these SNPs were significantly associated with C18:1 (p < 0.05), suggesting that they were candidates for the QTL. In conclusion, we successfully narrowed the candidates for the QTL by detecting possible polymorphisms located within the candidate region. It is expected that the responsible polymorphism can be identified by demonstrating their effect on the gene's function.
Mechanisms of kinesin‐7 CENP‐E in kinetochore–microtubule capture and chromosome alignment during cell division
Authors: Yu Kai‐Wei , Zhong Ning , Xiao Yu , She Zhen‐Yu
Published: February 2019

Chromosome congression is essential for faithful chromosome segregation and genomic stability in cell division. Centromere‐associated protein E (CENP‐E), a plus‐end‐directed kinesin motor, is required for congression of pole‐proximal chromosomes in metaphase. CENP‐E accumulates at the outer plate of kinetochores and mediates the kinetochore‐microtubule capture. CENP‐E also transports the chromosomes along spindle microtubules towards the equatorial plate. CENP‐E interacts with Bub1‐related kinase, Aurora B and core kinetochore components during kinetochore–microtubule attachment. In this review, we introduce the structures and mechanochemistry of kinesin‐7 CENP‐E. We highlight the complicated interactions between CENP‐E and partner proteins during chromosome congression. We summarise the detailed roles and mechanisms of CENP‐E in mitosis and meiosis, including the kinetochore–microtubule capture, chromosome congression/alignment in metaphase and the regulation of spindle assembly checkpoint. We also shed a light on the roles of CENP‐E in tumourigenesis and CENP‐E's specific inhibitors.
From identification to functional characterization of cyriotoxin‐1a, an antinociceptive toxin from the spider Cyriopagopus schioedtei
Authors: Gonçalves Tânia C. , Benoit Evelyne , Kurz Michael , Lucarain Laetitia , Fouconnier Sophie , Combemale Stéphanie , Jaquillard Lucie , Schombert Brigitte , Chambard Jean‐Marie , Boukaiba Rachid , Hessler Gerhard , Bohme Andrees , Bialy Laurent , Hourcade Stéphane , Béroud Rémy , De Waard Michel , Servent Denis , Partiseti Michel
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose

The NaV1.7 channel is highly expressed in dorsal root ganglia of the sensory nervous system and plays a central role in the pain signalling process. We investigated a library prepared from original venoms of 117 different animals to identify new selective inhibitors of this target.

Experimental Approach

We used high throughput screening of a large venom collection using automated patch‐clamp experiments on human voltage‐gated sodium channel subtypes and then in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological experiments to characterize the active peptides that have been purified, sequenced, and chemically synthesized. Analgesic effects were evaluated in vivo in mice models.

Key Results

We identified cyriotoxin‐1a (CyrTx‐1a), a novel peptide isolated from Cyriopagopus schioedtei spider venom, as a candidate for further characterization. This 33 amino acids toxin belongs to the inhibitor cystine knot structural family and inhibits hNaV1.1–1.3 and 1.6–1.7 channels in the low nanomolar range, compared to the micromolar range for hNaV1.4–1.5 and 1.8 channels. CyrTx‐1a was 920 times more efficient at inhibiting tetrodotoxin (TTX)‐sensitive than TTX‐resistant sodium currents recorded from adult mouse dorsal root ganglia neurons and in vivo electrophysiological experiments showed that CyrTx‐1a was approximately 170 times less efficient than huwentoxin‐IV at altering mouse skeletal neuromuscular excitability properties. CyrTx‐1a exhibited an analgesic effect in mice by increasing reaction time in the hot‐plate assay.

Conclusions and Implications

The pharmacological profile of CyrTx‐1a paves the way for further molecular engineering aimed to optimize the potential antinociceptive properties of this peptide.
“Power together”: Professionals and parents of children with disabilities creating productive partnerships
Authors: Cohen Ayala , Mosek Atalia
Published: February 2019

Disparity of power and authority in the relationship between parents and professionals has been shown to be a major challenge in creating a successful partnership in caring for children with disability. The goal of this article was to evaluate workshops attended by professionals and parents of children with disability by raising awareness to barriers related to incompatible expectations and role definitions. The research explored the experiences of the participants in order to identify factors that facilitated or impeded their collaborations. Data were collected from three workshops attended by 22 mothers of children with disability and 24 professionals (most of them are social workers). This qualitative research used interpretative phenomenological analysis to investigate the participants' experiences. Findings showed that parents and professionals joined forces to create a productive working relationship by taking advantage of power over and power together relationships. This mutual process required participants to be aware, empathic, and respectful of one another's needs and limitations; acknowledge the contribution of experiential and professional knowledge; and co‐operate in overcoming the effects of ineffective bureaucratic service systems. Interventions geared to contain emotional burden, acknowledge differential knowledge and experience, and structure the use of power are suggested.
Conical zirconia telescoping into electroformed gold: A retrospective study of prostheses supported by teeth and/or implants
Authors: Brandt Silvia , Winter Anna , Weigl Paul , Brandt Jan , Romanos Georgios , Lauer Hans‐Christoph
Published: February 2019

Background

Telescopic prostheses are an evidence‐based treatment modality, and conical zirconia crowns and electro‐formed gold copings have been used for dentures supported by teeth and/or implants.

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the survival rates of zirconia‐based tooth/implant restorations.

Materials and Methods

A total of 126 telescopic overdentures, all retained by conical zirconia crowns and electro‐formed gold copings, were retrospectively evaluated and failures analyzed for abutment configurations. Survival rates and modifying factors were evaluated by Kaplan‐Meier analysis, log‐rank testing, and Cox regression analysis.

Results

We evaluated observation periods of up to 11.5 years (mean: 45.25 ± 25.11 months). Five‐year prosthesis survival was 96.9 ± 2.2% (95% CI: 92.6‐100). Six dentures had been lost, and these failures were significantly associated with specific abutment configurations.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this retrospective study, the concept of conical zirconia telescoping into electro‐formed gold provides a viable alternative to other telescopic designs used for removable dental prostheses. The concept is well suited especially for tooth/implant‐supported prosthetic rehabilitation.
The Dexcom glucose monitoring system—An isobornyl acrylate‐free alternative for diabetic patients
Authors: Oppel Eva , Kamann Stefanie , Reichl Franz‐Xaver , Högg Christof
Published: February 2019

Background

Glucose monitoring systems, for example, Freestyle Libre (Abott) and Dexcom (Nintamed), are increasingly being used instead of conventional blood sugar measurement. However, many patients have experienced adverse skin reactions such as severe allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Finally, in August 2017, the culprit allergen in Freestyle Libre, isobornyl acrylate (IBOA), was identified.

Objectives

After patients have developed ACD, it is recommended that they no longer use their glucose monitoring systems. Thus, it is important to find an alternative IBOA‐free device.

Patients and Methods

Five patients presented with ACD caused by Freestyle Libre. Each was patch tested with allergens from the baseline series and from a plastics and glues series, and additionally with IBOA 0.1% pet. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC/MS) of the Freestyle Libre sensor and the Dexcom sensor was performed. The Dexcom sensor remained on the skin of all patients for at least 2 days.

Results

All patients were sensitized to IBOA. GC/MS showed the presence of IBOA in the Freestyle Libre sensor, whereas the Dexcom sensor was IBOA‐free. None of the patients had skin reactions to the Dexcom sensor.

Conclusions

Patients with Freestyle Libre and IBOA allergy may use the Dexcom sensor as an alternative for glucose monitoring.
A scoping review of harm reduction training for police officers
Authors: Khorasheh Triti , Naraine Renuka , Watson Tara Marie , Wright Amy , Kallio Natalie , Strike Carol
Published: February 2019

Issues

Preventable overdose deaths, especially due to opioids, have increasingly been reported worldwide. Expansion of life‐saving harm reduction services is underway with increasing public support in some jurisdictions. However, such services often fall short of reaching people who use drugs (PWUD), in part, due to law enforcement practices that are aligned with punitive drug laws and incongruent with harm reduction principles. One suggested strategy to facilitate police understanding and uptake of practices that are more congruent with harm reduction is to provide police with relevant training.

Approach

This scoping review synthesises English‐language peer‐reviewed and grey literature on harm reduction training programs for police.

Key Findings

We reviewed 31 sources and found that most trainings covered topics related to harm reduction objectives, overdose recognition and response, occupational safety and policing practices. Information was often presented via single‐session, 1‐hour long, slide‐assisted presentations that were integrated into in‐service trainings. Inconsistent throughout the literature was the career stage or position/rank of training audience (e.g. cadets, senior officers, street‐level officers), when and how much training should be provided, and the occupational background of the training facilitator.

Implications

The available literature contains significant gaps pertaining to descriptions of training development, design and content specific to facilitating positive police‐PWUD interactions, and formal evaluations. These gaps limit our understanding of what well‐designed trainings may look like, if and how training alters policing practices, and to what extent training completion may lead to improved outcomes.

Conclusion

Greater research and formal evaluations of harm reduction training for police is recommended.
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials on antibiotic treatment for osteomyelitis in diabetes
Authors: Xing K. , Huang G. , Hua S. , Xu G. , Li M.
Published: February 2019

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of antibiotic therapy in osteomyelitis treatment among people with diabetes.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, AMED, Web of Science, the WHO trial registry, Cochrane library databases, and ClinicalTrials.gov, in addition to hand‐searching, was undertaken in July 2018. Two reviewers independently extracted data. The studies’ methodological quality was assessed using the modified Jadad scale. Descriptive analysis was performed.

Results

Seven randomized controlled trials, with 393 participants in total, were included. The antibiotic regimens, treatments and follow‐up durations varied among the trials. The total scores showed that the overall methodological quality of the seven studies was high, despite two studies showing some flaws in double‐blinding and withdrawals/drop‐outs. Of four studies comparing different antibiotic regimens, three implied a similar remission effect, while one implied that ertapenem ± vancomycin treatment showed a higher remission rate than tigecycline treatment; this conclusion was not robust because of low power and small sample size. In the other three studies, which included two different doses of ciprofloxacin, an antibiotics group and a conservative surgical group, and two durations of the same antibiotic strategy, no significant differences in remission were reported between the groups. No difference was observed in the analyses of microbiological outcomes, superinfections and relapse, except adverse events.

Conclusions

There is no definitive evidence supporting the superiority of any particular antibiotic agent, dose, or administration duration in the treatment of osteomyelitis in diabetes. As the included studies had some flaws and limitations, further research is necessary.
Multimodal prevention of first psychotic episode through N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine and integrated preventive psychological intervention in individuals clinically at high risk for psychosis: Protocol of a randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group trial
Authors: Schmidt Stefanie J. , Hurlemann René , Schultz Johannes , Wasserthal Sven , Kloss Christian , Maier Wolfgang , Meyer‐Lindenberg Andreas , Hellmich Martin , Muthesius‐Digón Ana , Pantel Tanja , Wiesner Pia‐Sophie , Klosterkötter Joachim , Ruhrmann Stephan ,   the ESPRIT‐B1 Group
Published: February 2019

Aim

Meta‐analyses indicate positive effects of both antipsychotic and cognitive‐behavioural interventions in subjects clinically at high risk (CHR) for psychosis in terms of a delay or prevention of psychotic disorders. However, these effects have been limited regarding social functioning and the relative efficacy of both types of interventions remains unclear. Furthermore, neuroprotective substances seem to be a promising alternative agent in psychosis‐prevention as they are associated with few and weak side‐effects.

Methods

In this multi‐centre randomized controlled trial (RCT), we investigate the effects of two interventions on transition to psychosis and social functioning: (a) an integrated preventive psychological intervention (IPPI) including stress‐/symptom‐management and social‐cognitive remediation; (b) N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC) as a pharmacological intervention with glutamatergic, neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory capabilities.

Results

This is a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled RCT with regard to NAC and a single‐blind RCT with regard to IPPI using a 2 × 2‐factorial design to investigate the individual and combined preventive effects of both interventions. To this aim, a total of 200 CHR subjects will be randomized stratified by site to one of four conditions: (a) IPPI and NAC; (b) IPPI and Placebo; (c) NAC and psychological stress management; (d) Placebo and psychological stress management. Interventions are delivered over 26 weeks with a follow‐up period of 12 months.

Conclusion

This paper reports on the rationale and protocol of an indicated prevention trial to detect the most effective and tolerable interventions with regard to transition to psychosis as well as improvements in social functioning, and to evaluate the synergistic effects of these interventions.
Surgical management of an enterocutaneous umbilical fistula caused by an incarcerated Richter's hernia in a one‐year‐old Quarter Horse filly
Authors: Sommerfeld T. C. , Röcken M. , Al Naem M. , Geburek F.
Published: February 2019

This article reports a case of a one‐year‐old Quarter Horse filly with an enterocutaneous fistula resulting from an umbilical hernia since birth, treated successfully by en bloc resection of the hernial sac with the fistula and closure of the ileum with a modified Heineke‐Mikulicz technique. This consisted of closing the intestinal wound transversely to the long axis after excision of the fistula to help preserve a sufficient intestinal lumen and prevent potential stricture formation after longitudinal closure. Umbilical hernias are reported to have an incidence of 0.5–2.0% usually resolve spontaneously. Reducible hernias do not represent a surgical emergency whereas incarcerations should always undergo surgery as soon as possible. Enterocutaneous fistulae occur uncommonly as a result of congenital umbilical herniae that developed spontaneously into Richter's herniae or Littré herniae or they are induced traumatically or iatrogenically after therapeutic attempts. In most cases, enterocutaneous fistulae do not require immediate surgery. However, the excision of the fistula should be scheduled within a few days after diagnosis. In the current case, the owner reported a healthy development of the filly after 1 year without any functional problems. This case represents an example of successful use of the Heineke‐Mikulicz technique to establish an alternative to standard end‐to‐end anastomosis.
Healing through Parenting: An Intervention Delivery and Process of Change Model Developed with Low‐Income Latina/o Immigrant Families
Authors: Parra‐Cardona J. Ruben
Published: February 2019

Low‐income Latinas/os are exposed to widespread mental health disparities in the United States. Most recently, a resurgence of anti‐immigration narratives has led vulnerable Latina/o immigrants to experience considerable contextual stressors with multiple deleterious consequences for their overall well‐being, including significant disruptions to their parenting practices. Within this context of adversity and despite the multiple benefits associated with parent training (PT) prevention interventions, the availability of contextually and culturally relevant PT interventions remains limited in underserved Latina/o communities. This paper constitutes a contribution to this gap in knowledge by presenting a model of intervention delivery utilized in the dissemination of culturally adapted versions of the evidence‐based intervention known as GenerationPMTO.© The proposed model also describes a process of change that we have documented in empirical research with low‐income Latina/o immigrant parents who have been exposed to the adapted interventions. The manuscript is organized in four sections. First, an overview of the model is discussed, along with a brief summary of major theories. Next, the core components of the model are described, complemented by the presentation of a case study. Finally, implications for prevention and clinical intervention are discussed.
Discovery and structural analysis of a phloretin hydrolase from the opportunistic human pathogen Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Han Jian‐Ting , Zhang Si‐Ping , Jia Wen‐Juan , Zhang Zhang , Wang Yong , He Yong‐Xing
Published: February 2019

The family of PhlG proteins catalyses the hydrolysis of carbon‐carbon bonds and is widely distributed across diverse bacterial species. Two members of the PhlG family have been separately identified as 2,4‐diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4‐DAPG) hydrolase and phloretin hydrolase; however, the extent of functional divergence and catalytic substrates for most members of this family is still unknown. Here, using sequence similarity network and gene co‐occurrence analysis, we categorized PhlG proteins into several subgroups and inferred that PhlG proteins from Mycobacterium abscessus (MaPhlG) are likely to be functionally equivalent to phloretin hydrolase. Indeed, we confirmed the hydrolytic activity of MaPhlG towards phloretin and its analog monoacetylphloroglucinol (MAPG), and the crystal structure of MaPhlG in complex with MAPG revealed the key residues involved in catalysis and substrate binding. Through mutagenesis and enzymatic assays, we demonstrated that H160, I162, A213 and Q266, which are substituted in 2,4‐DAPG hydrolase, are essential for the activity towards phloretin. Based on the conservation of these residues, potential phloretin hydrolases were identified from Frankia, Colletotrichum tofieldiae and Magnaporthe grisea, which are rhizosphere inhabitants. These enzymes may be important for rhizosphere adaptation of the producing microbes by providing a carbon source through anaerobic degradation of flavonoids. Taken together, our results provided a framework for understanding the mechanism of functional divergence of PhlG proteins.
Multi‐year carbon budget of a mature commercial short rotation coppice willow plantation
Authors: Morrison Ross , Rowe Rebecca L , Cooper Hollie M. , McNamara Niall P.
Published: February 2019

Energy derived from second generation perennial energy crops is projected to play an increasingly important role in the decarbonization of the energy sector. Such energy crops are expected to deliver net greenhouse gas emissions reductions through fossil fuel displacement and have potential for increasing soil carbon (C) storage. Despite this, few empirical studies have quantified the ecosystem‐level C balance of energy crops and the evidence base to inform energy policy remains limited. Here, the temporal dynamics and magnitude of net ecosystem carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange (NEE) were quantified at a mature short rotation coppice (SRC) willow plantation in Lincolnshire, United Kingdom, under commercial growing conditions. Eddy covariance flux observations of NEE were performed over a four‐year production cycle and combined with biomass yield data to estimate the net ecosystem carbon balance (NECB) of the SRC. The magnitude of annual NEE ranged from −147 ± 70 to −502 ± 84 g CO2‐C m−2 year−1 with the magnitude of annual CO2 capture increasing over the production cycle. Defoliation during an unexpected outbreak of willow leaf beetle impacted gross ecosystem production, ecosystem respiration, and net ecosystem exchange during the second growth season. The NECB was −87 ± 303 g CO2‐C m−2 for the complete production cycle after accounting for C export at harvest (1,183 g C m−2), and was approximately CO2‐C neutral (−21 g CO2‐C m−2 year−1) when annualized. The results of this study are consistent with studies of soil organic C which have shown limited changes following conversion to SRC willow. In the context of global decarbonization, the study indicates that the primary benefit of SRC willow production at the site is through displacement of fossil fuel emissions.
Ocular dialysis disequilibrium—Management of intraocular pressure during hemodialysis of open angle glaucoma: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lippold Cassiopia L. , Kalarn Sachin P. , Swamy Ramya N. , Patel Ami M.
Published: February 2019

It has been shown that patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) have an increased risk for changes in intraocular pressure during hemodialysis, or ocular dialysis disequilibrium which can cause pain or discomfort during treatment and lead to decreased vision over time. This is a case of an elderly male with ESRD who was having headaches, nausea, and eye pain during hemodialysis due to increased intraocular pressures. Using a higher sodium prescription resolved his symptoms and normalized his intraocular pressures. This case illustrates that modification in dialysate tonicity can decrease changes in intraocular pressures while patients are on hemodialysis, a vision saving consideration for patients.
Cross‐Sectional Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the Headache‐Specific Locus of Control Scale in People With Migraine
Authors: Grinberg Amy S. , Seng Elizabeth K.
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study aims to investigate the psychometric properties (component structure, reliability, and construct validity) of the Headache‐Specific Locus of Control scale in several clinical migraine populations.

Background

Headache‐specific locus of control beliefs may impact a person’s behavioral decisions that affect the likelihood of migraine attack onset, emotional responses to migraine attacks, coping strategies used, and treatment adherence. The 33‐item Headache‐Specific Locus of Control scale is the most widely used measure of locus of control specific to headache yet psychometric evaluations remain limited.

Methods

Six hundred and ninety‐five adults with a diagnosis of migraine from 5 different research studies completed cross‐sectional self‐report measures including the Headache‐Specific Locus of Control scale and measures of quality of life and disability (Migraine‐Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire and Migraine Disability Assessment).

Results

Five Headache‐Specific Locus of Control components emerged from Horn’s Parallel Analysis, Minimum Average Partial test, and Principal Component Analysis (eigenvalues: Presence of Internal = 5.7, Lack of Internal = 4.0, Luck = 2.9, Doctor = 2.0, and Treatment = 1.5). The 33 Headache‐Specific Locus of Control items demonstrated adequate internal consistency for total (α = 0.79) and subscale scores (α’s = 0.69 to 0.88). This study found preliminary evidence of convergent validity. For example, Lack of Internal (r = −0.12, P = 0.004), Doctor (r = −0.20, P < .001), and Treatment (r = −0.12, P = .004) beliefs were associated with higher overall migraine‐specific quality of life impairments.

Conclusions

The Headache‐Specific Locus of Control scale is a reliable and valid measure of headache‐specific locus of control. Findings suggest that headache‐specific locus of control is more multidimensional than previous conceptualizations and contribute to our understanding of control beliefs as a potential mechanism for migraine treatment.
Half‐dose clarithromycin‐containing bismuth quadruple therapy is effective and economical in treating Helicobacter pylori infection: A single‐center, open‐label, randomized trial
Authors: Lu Bingyun , Wang Jiamin , Li Jing , Liu Le , Chen Ye
Published: February 2019

Background

Clarithromycin‐containing bismuth quadruple therapy has been recommended as the first‐line therapy for H pylori infection in China. However, its expensive cost and high antibiotic‐related adverse reactions are always haunting us. To find a safer, more cost‐effective, and high eradicative strategy for Helicobacter treatment, we investigated the efficacy of 14‐day bismuth quadruple therapy and different doses of clarithromycin in the first‐line treatment.

Method

A total of 210 patients with H pylori infection were recruited and randomly assigned to half‐dose clarithromycin group (esomeprazole 20 mg bid, amoxicillin 1 g bid, clarithromycin 250 mg bid, and bismuth potassium citrate 0.6 g bid) for 14 days or standard‐dose clarithromycin group (esomeprazole 20 mg bid, amoxicillin 1 g bid, clarithromycin 500 mg bid, and bismuth potassium citrate 0.6 g bid) for 14 days. A 13C‐urea breath test (13C‐UBT) was performed at least 4 weeks after treatment. The eradication rate of H pylori, the incidence of side effects, and the cost‐effectiveness of regimens were evaluated in this study.

Results

The eradication frequencies were 86.67% for both groups in the intention‐to‐treat analysis, while the per‐protocol eradication rates were 91% vs. 91.92% (p=0.817). The incidence of adverse events was higher in standard dose group (54.21% vs. 34.29%; p=0.004), especially bitter taste symptom. There was a higher level of costs per person associated with the standard‐dose group as compared with half‐dose group (￥804.3 vs ￥654.36). The cost‐effectiveness ratio of the half dose was less than that of the standard dose (7.55 vs 9.16 CNY per percent).

Conclusions

A 14‐day half‐dose clarithromycin‐containing bismuth quadruple regimen is as effective as the standard bismuth quadruple therapy at eradicating H pylori, which is better tolerated and more economical. (ChiCTR‐ROC‐15007406).
Effects of empagliflozin treatment on cardiac function and structure in patients with type 2 diabetes: a cardiac magnetic resonance study
Authors: Cohen Neale D. , Gutman Sarah J. , Briganti Esther M. , Taylor Andrew J.
Published: February 2019

Background

The effects of empagliflozin on cardiac structure and function are not known.

Aims

To examine the changes in cardiac structure and function following the addition of empagliflozin in patients with type 2 (T2D) diabetes using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging.

Methods

Twenty patients attending a specialist diabetes service recommended for treatment with empagliflozin, and 8 control patients with T2D on stable glucose lowering therapy were recruited for cardiac imaging. Participants underwent CMR scans at baseline and 6 months. Inclusion criteria were established T2D, age < 75 years, estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥45 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results

17 of 20 in the empagliflozin group, and all of 8 in the control group completed the study. Empagliflozin therapy was associated with reduction in left ventricular end diastolic volume 155 mL (137 mL, 174 mL) at baseline to 145 mL (125 mL, 165 mL) at 6 months, P < 0.01, compared with the control group 153 mL (128 mL, 179 mL) at baseline and 158 mL (128 mL, 190 mL), not significant. There were no differences in measures of left ventricular mass, ejection fraction, heart rate or markers of cardiac fibrosis at baseline and 6 months in either group.

Conclusions

This is the first CMR study to examine the effects of empagliflozin on cardiac function and structure, showing evidence of reduced end diastolic volume. This is likely to reflect change in plasma volume, and may explain the reduced cardiovascular death and heart failure seen in the EMPA‐REG OUTCOME trial.
Use of negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and a reticulated open cell foam dressing with through holes in the acute care setting
Authors: McElroy Elizabeth F.
Published: February 2019

Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell time (NPWTi‐d) is an automated system used to deliver, dwell, and remove topical solutions from the wound bed. Recently, a reticulated open cell foam dressing with through holes (ROCF‐CC) was developed, which assists with wound cleansing by removing thick exudate and infectious materials. We present our experience using NPWTi‐d with ROCF‐CC on complex wounds when complete surgical debridement was inappropriate because of medical instability, recurrent non‐viable tissue, or palliative treatment plan. For all wounds, NPWTi‐d with ROCF‐CC was initiated by instilling normal saline, acetic acid, or hypochlorous acid with 2 to 10 minutes of dwell time, followed by 0.5 to 4 hours of negative pressure. Dressings were changed every 2 to 3 days. Fourteen patients with multiple comorbidities were treated for wound types including diabetic foot ulcers, necrotising fasciitis, dehisced wounds, and pressure injuries. Duration of NPWTi‐d with ROCF‐CC ranged from 1 to 15 days, and at dressing changes, wounds showed improved granulation tissue formation, less malodour, less surrounding erythema, and demarcation of healthy skin from devitalised tissue. Based on these patients, adjunctive use of NPWTi‐d with ROCF‐CC provided a practical option for improving tissue quality in wounds for patients in whom surgical debridement was not possible or desired.
Wrongdoing and whistleblowing in health care
Authors: Pohjanoksa Johanna , Stolt Minna , Suhonen Riitta , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: February 2019

Aim(s)

To describe healthcare professionals’ experiences of observed wrongdoing and potential whistleblowing acts regarding it. The main goal is to strengthen the whistleblowing process described based on the existing literature and to make it more visible for future research.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Data were collected between 26 June 2015–17 July 2015 from the Finnish trade union's membership register, electronically using one open question. A total of 226 healthcare professionals participated providing written narratives, which were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Findings

The whistleblowing process in health care was strengthened, identifying the content of observed wrongdoings and whistleblowing acts regarding them. Three themes were identified: wrongdoing related to patients, healthcare professionals, and healthcare managers. Whistleblowing acts were performed internally, externally, or left undone. Three main paths: internal, external, and no whistleblowing, between an observation of wrongdoing and whistleblowing act were identified.

Conclusion

The whistleblowing process should be further developed and ethically effective programmes and interventions should be developed for increasing whistleblowing and preventing wrongdoing in health care.
The existence of a fire‐mediated tree‐recruitment bottleneck in an Asian savanna
Authors: Nguyen Thuy T. , Murphy Brett P. , Baker Patrick J.
Published: February 2019

Aim

A considerable proportion of the global savanna biome has been mis‐classified as forest, especially in Asia. However, the structure and responses of dominant tree species to fire can help to clarify this ambiguity. Here, we examine demographic structure and fire responses of four dominant tree species in a deciduous dipterocarp forest (DDF) of the continental Southeast Asia. We examine whether fire creates a tree‐recruitment bottleneck in the DDF, as in savannas on other continents.

Location

YokDon National Park, Vietnam.

Taxon

Dipterocarpus tuberculatus Roxb.; Dipterocarpus obtusifolius Teysm. ex Miq.; Shorea obtusa Wall. ex Blume; Shorea siamensis (Kurz) Miq.

Methods

We measured the size of all 8,288 individuals of the four dominant dipterocarp species in 12 pair study sites. We then applied fire treatments (burnt or unburnt) to the plots and monitored the survival and growth of juveniles five times over the subsequent growing season.

Results

All four species showed clear indications of a recruitment bottleneck at the sapling stage. Almost all juveniles in the burnt plots suffered aboveground mortality, but 64% resprouted by the end of the following growing season. Compared to large juveniles, small juveniles had a significantly higher probability of aboveground mortality and a more limited ability to resprout. Within 3 months of fire, 43%–93% of individuals had resprouted, and they had recovered 67%–95% of their pre‐fire basal diameter and 43%–94% of their pre‐fire height. At the end of the post‐fire growing season, burnt juveniles experienced virtually no net increase in size; however, juveniles in unburnt plots attained up to 150% of their pre‐fire size.

Main conclusions

The four dominant tree species of the DDF show remarkable similarities in the demographic structures and fire‐responses with savanna tree species on other continents. Our results are consistent with the notion that the DDF is functionally similar to savannas on other continents. Fire appears to act as potent environmental filter of tree species composition in the DDF.
The role of dendritic cells regulated by HMGB1/TLR4 signalling pathway in myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Xue Jiyang , Ge Hanwei , Lin Zhiyong , Wang Hanlei , Lin Wei , Liu Yong , Wu Guowei , Xia Jie , Zhao Qifeng
Published: February 2019

Inflammatory response plays an important role in ischaemia reperfusion injury (IRI) through a variety of inflammatory cells. Apart from neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes, the role of dendritic cells (DCs) in IRI has been noticed. The study was aimed at investigating whether the high‐mobility group protein box‐1/toll like receptor 4 (HMGB1/TLR4) signalling pathway regulate the migration, adhesion and aggregation of DCs to the myocardium, induce DCs activation and maturation, stimulate the expression of surface costimulatory molecules and participate in myocardial IRI. In vivo, migration, adhesion, and aggregation of DCs was enhanced; the expression of peripheral blood DCs CD80 and CD86, myocardial adhesion molecules were increased; and the infarct size was increased during myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury myocardial ischemic/reperfusion injury (MI/RI). These responses induced by MI/RI were significantly inhibited by HMGB1 specific neutralizing antibody treatment. Cellular experiments confirmed that HMGB1 promoted the release of inflammatory cytokines through TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB, upregulated CD80 and CD86 expression, mediated the damage of cardiomyocytes and accelerated the apoptosis. Our results indicate that DCs activation and maturation, stimulate the expression of surface costimulatory molecules by promoting the release of inflammatory factors through NF‐κB pathway and participate in myocardial IRI.
Editorial: Can dysregulated myelination be linked to ADHD pathogenesis and persistence?
Authors: Lesch Klaus‐Peter
Published: February 2019

Converging evidence from new epidemiologic, genetic, epigenetic, neuroimaging, and experimental model findings are further refining a long‐standing concept, regarding the underlying neurobiology of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): that ADHD onset and its persistence into adulthood are the result of dysregulated myelination and associated alterations in neuronal plasticity – linked to disrupted brain maturation and the persistence of cognitive and emotional impairments across the life span. If supported by further work, this concept represents a pathophysiologic mechanism amenable to therapeutic intervention.
Ultrasonographic appearance and measurement of abdominal structures in healthy Capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.)
Authors: Spina Fabio , Brizzi Laura , Spattini Giliola , Faiola Fabio , Birettoni Francesco
Published: February 2019

Background

Previous ultrasonographic studies of Sapajus apella to determine the normal anatomy and physiology are incomplete. The aim of this study was to determine normal ultrasonographic appearance and measurements of all abdominal organs and structures of interest.

Methods

Twelve adult monkeys were recruited considered healthy on the basis of history, physical examination, and general blood work. To avoid additional anesthesia, the ultrasonographic examinations were performed during routine screening, annually scheduled by the Unit of Cognitive Primatology & Primate Center, CNR—Rome, where the animals were housed. Ultrasound data were processed offline by two experienced ultrasonographers.

Results

Topography, morphology and echostructure were described for almost all organs and descriptive statistics were provided.

Conclusion

To the author's knowledge, this is the most complete ultrasonographic study in Capuchin monkeys.