bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capn5 expression in the healthy and regenerating zebrafish retina
Authors: Coomer Cagney E. , Morris Ann C.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Autosomal dominant neovascular inflammatory vitreoretinopathy (ADNIV) is a devastating inherited autoimmune disease of the eye that displays features commonly seen in other eye diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy. ADNIV is caused by a gain of function mutation in Calpain-5 (CAPN5), a calcium dependent cysteine protease. Very little is known about the normal function of Capn5 in the adult retina, and there are conflicting results regarding its role during mammalian embryonic development. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is an excellent animal model for studying vertebrate development and tissue regeneration, and represents a novel model to explore the function of Capn5 in the eye.

Methods

We characterized the expression of Capn5 in the developing zebrafish central nervous system (CNS) and retina, in the adult zebrafish retina, and in response to photoreceptor degeneration and regeneration using whole mount in situ hybridization, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), and immunohistochemistry.

Results

In zebrafish, capn5 is strongly expressed in the developing embryonic brain, early optic vesicles, and in newly differentiated retinal photoreceptors. We found that expression of capn5 co-localized with cone specific markers in the adult zebrafish retina. We observed an increase in expression of Capn5 in a zebrafish model of chronic rod photoreceptor degeneration and regeneration. Acute light damage to the zebrafish retina, was accompanied by an increase in expression of Capn5 in the surviving cones and in a subset of Müller glia.

Conclusions

These studies suggest that Capn5 may play a role in CNS development, photoreceptor maintenance, and photoreceptor regeneration.
Intrinsic DNA binding properties demonstrated for lineage-specifying basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors
Authors: Casey Bradford H. , Kollipara Rahul K. , Pozo Karine , Johnson Jane E.
Published: March 2018

During development, transcription factors select distinct gene programs, providing the necessary regulatory complexity for temporal and tissue-specific gene expression. How related factors retain specificity, especially when they recognize the same DNA motifs, is not understood. We address this paradox using basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors ASCL1, ASCL2, and MYOD1, crucial mediators of lineage specification. In vivo, these factors recognize the same DNA motifs, yet bind largely different genomic sites and regulate distinct transcriptional programs. This suggests that their ability to identify regulatory targets is defined either by the cellular environment of the partially defined lineages in which they are endogenously expressed, or by intrinsic properties of the factors themselves. To distinguish between these mechanisms, we directly compared the chromatin binding properties of this subset of bHLH factors when ectopically expressed in embryonic stem cells, presenting them with a common chromatin landscape and cellular components. We find that these factors retain distinct binding sites; thus, specificity of binding is an intrinsic property not requiring a restricted landscape or lineage-specific cofactors. Although the ASCL factors and MYOD1 have some distinct DNA motif preference, it is not sufficient to explain the extent of the differential binding. All three factors can bind inaccessible chromatin and induce changes in chromatin accessibility and H3K27ac. A reiterated pattern of DNA binding motifs is uniquely enriched in inaccessible chromatin at sites bound by these bHLH factors. These combined properties define a subclass of lineage-specific bHLH factors and provide context for their central roles in development and disease.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of bis(2,6-diaminopyridinium) tetrachloridocobaltate(II)
Authors: Ben Moussa Oumaima , Chebbi Hammouda , Zid Mohamed Faouzi
Published: March 2018

In the title molecular salt, (C5H8N3)2[CoCl4], the cations are protonated at their pyridine N atoms and the anion is an almost regular tetrahedron. The crystal structure consists of alternating inorganic layers, built from tetrachloridocobaltate anions, and organic layers formed by protonated cations of 2,6-diaminopyridinium. The crystal packing is governed by C/N—H...Cl hydrogen-bonding interactions between the organic and the inorganic ions and Cl...Cl interactions. Moreover, the cations show a π–π stacking interaction [intercentroid distance = 3.763 (2) Å]. The prevalence of these interactions is illustrated by an analysis of the three-dimensional Hirshfeld surface and by two-dimensional fingerprint plots.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld analysis of trans-bis(5-fluoroindoline-2,3-dione 3-oximato-κ2
O
2,N
3)-trans-bis(pyridine-κN)copper(II)
Authors: Melo Ana Paula Lopes de , Bresolin Leandro , Martins Bianca Barreto , Gervini Vanessa Carratu , Oliveira Adriano Bof de
Published: March 2018

The reaction in methanol of CuII acetate monohydrate with 5-fluoroisatin 3-oxime deprotonated with KOH in a 1:2 molar ratio and recrystallization from pyridine yielded the title compound, [Cu(C8H4FN2O2)2(C5H5N)2]. In the centrosymmetric complex, the anionic form of the isatin oxime acts as a κ2
N,O donor, building five-membered metallarings. The CuII cation is sixfold coordinated in a slightly distorted octahedral environment by two trans, equatorial, anionic isatin derivatives and two trans pyridine ligands in axial positions. The complexes are linked by hydrogen bonding into a three-dimensional network, which is also stabilized by π–π stacking interactions [centroid-to-centroid distance = 3.7352 (9) Å] and C—H...π contacts. The Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the major contributions for the crystal packing are H...H (31.80%), H...C (24.30%), H...O (15.20%) and H...F (10.80%). This work is the second report in the literature of a crystal structure of a coordination compound with isatin 3-oxime ligands (coordination chemistry).
Worldwide Protein Data Bank validation information: usage and trends
Authors: Smart Oliver S. , Horský Vladimír , Gore Swanand , Svobodová Vařeková Radka , Bendová Veronika , Kleywegt Gerard J. , Velankar Sameer
Published: March 2018

Realising the importance of assessing the quality of the biomolecular structures deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB), the Worldwide Protein Data Bank (wwPDB) partners established Validation Task Forces to obtain advice on the methods and standards to be used to validate structures determined by X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and three-dimensional electron cryo-microscopy. The resulting wwPDB validation pipeline is an integral part of the wwPDB OneDep deposition, biocuration and validation system. The wwPDB Validation Service webserver (https://validate.wwpdb.org) can be used to perform checks prior to deposition. Here, it is shown how validation metrics can be combined to produce an overall score that allows the ranking of macromolecular structures and domains in search results. The ValTrendsDBdatabase provides users with a convenient way to access and analyse validation information and other properties of X-ray crystal structures in the PDB, including investigating trends in and correlations between different structure properties and validation metrics.
Preliminary study of the vibration-based maintenance implementation: case study
Authors: Semma El Mehdi , Mousrij Ahmed , Gziri Hassan
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the different phases of the implementation of vibration-based maintenance (VBM). Then, the focus will be on the first two stages, namely, the inventory and feasibility study where each step will be translated into a very detailed implementation process through an industrial case study.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a state of art on the implementation of the VBM; a survey of national and international experts in the field of VBM and finally an analysis of 30 years of VBM practice in a large Moroccan company in the field of chemical processing, via a collective approach called Diagnostic Court Autonome.

Findings

The study showed that improving productivity by reducing downtimes due to vibration defects through effective vibration monitoring is possible and investment in equipment and vibration monitoring personnel is largely justified in the company studied.

Originality/value

This paper presents in detail the two preliminary phases with all procedures describing in a practical way the operating rules to apply and organize the roles of different actors. The work will be useful both to researchers and maintenance managers interested in structuring their vibration monitoring cells.
Primary productivity explains size variation across the Pallid bat's western geographic range
Authors: Kelly Rochelle M. , Friedman Rachel , Santana Sharlene E.
Published: March 2018

Body size is associated with many aspects of the life history, ecology and physiology of animals. Within a species, body size can vary substantially across space and time, and the mechanisms generating these patterns have been the focus of evolutionary and ecology research.

Bergmann’s rule predicts a negative relationship between body size and temperature across the geographic range of endothermic animals; larger animals have a lower surface to volume ratio, which would allow for greater heat conservation. Despite the broad support for this pattern, its underlying mechanisms are heavily debated. Numerous alternative explanations have been proposed to explain why larger animals are found in colder climates and vice versa, including heat dissipation, environmental seasonality and resource availability.

We used the Pallid bat, Antrozous pallidus, as a model to evaluate Bergmannian size patterns and the relative support for major explanatory hypotheses of geographic body size variation. We tested the hypothesis that geographic size variation is predicted by productivity, as opposed to seasonality, heat conservation or dissipation, or some combination of these processes. Additionally, we investigated the potential ecomorphological consequences of size variation in Pallid bats by determining if skull shape (an indicator of bite performance) varies with size.

Whereas we did find that Pallid bat populations in northern latitudes are composed of larger individuals, our results suggest that net primary productivity and, to a lesser extent heat conservation, best explain size variation throughout the western range of this species. We also found that skull shape in Pallid bats changes in tandem with skull size, with larger bats having cranial traits associated with greater bite force production.

The results of our study indicate that variation in resource availability may be a key factor underlying spatial patterns in size, morphology and, possibly, feeding performance within wide‐ranging bat species.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Persistent symptoms and activity changes three months after mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Cooksley Rebecca , Maguire Emma , Lannin Natasha A. , Unsworth Carolyn A. , Farquhar Michelle , Galea Claire , Mitra Biswadev , Schmidt Julia
Published: March 2018

Background/aim

Approximately, 80% of traumatic brain injuries are considered mild in severity. Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) may cause temporary or persisting impairments that can adversely affect an individual's ability to participate in daily occupations and life roles. This study aimed to identify symptoms, factors predicting level of symptoms and functional and psycho‐social outcomes for participants with mTBI three months following injury.

Method

Patients discharged from the Emergency Department of a major metropolitan hospital with a diagnosis of mTBI were contacted by telephone three months after injury. An interview with two questionnaires was administered: The Concussion Symptom Inventory (CSI) Scale and the Rivermead Head Injury Follow‐Up Questionnaire (RHIFUQ). Data obtained were used to determine the type and prevalence of post‐concussion symptoms and their impact on activity change.

Results

Sixty‐three people with mTBI participated in the study. The majority of participants (81%) reported that all symptoms had resolved within the three‐month time frame. Of those still experiencing symptoms, workplace fatigue (22%) and an inability to maintain previous workload/standards (17%) were reported.

Conclusion

There is a small, but clinically significant, subgroup of patients who continue to experience symptoms three‐month post‐mTBI. Symptoms experienced beyond the expected three‐month recovery timeframe have the potential to adversely affect an individual's ability to participate in daily occupation and return to work.
Gossypol stimulates opening of a Ca2+‐ and Na+‐permeable but Ni2+‐ and Co2+‐impermeable pore in bEND.3 endothelial cells
Authors: Chen Cing‐Yu , Lin Wen‐Chuan , Wong Kar‐Lok , Cheng Ka‐Shun , Leung Yuk‐Man , Yang Shu‐Er
Published: March 2018

Gossypol, a polyphenolic dialdehyde toxin isolated from cotton seed, has anti‐cancer properties and has recently shown some success in the treatment of glioma. Its effects on brain neurons and blood vessels are poorly understood. In this work we examined the effects of gossypol on cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) of mouse brain bEND.3 endothelial cells. Cell viability tests revealed that after 3 hour and 18 hour exposures, 10 µmol/L gossypol caused 23% and 65% cell death, respectively; 3 µmol/L gossypol caused no and 21% cell death, respectively. [Ca2+]i was raised concentration‐dependently by 1‐10 µmol/L gossypol. We then explored the Ca2+ signalling triggered by 3 µmol/L gossypol, which inflicted minimal toxicity: the Ca2+ signal was composed largely of Ca2+ influx and to a small extent, intracellular Ca2+ release. Such Ca2+ influx was much larger than store‐operated Ca2+ influx triggered by maximal Ca2+ pool depletion. The Ca2+ influx triggered by 3 and 10 µmol/L gossypol caused NO release and cell death, respectively. Gossypol also triggered influx of Mn2+ and Na+, but not Ni2+ and Co2+. Gossypol‐triggered Ca2+ signal was inhibited only by 14% and 37% by 100 µmol/L La3+ and 10 µmol/L nimodipine, respectively; and not suppressed at all by 5 mmol/L Ni2+. Gossypol‐triggered Ca2+ signal was suppressed by 78% by 30 µmol/L ruthenium red, suggesting gossypol may act on TRPV channels. Our results suggest gossypol triggered opening of a non‐selective cation pore, possibly a member of the TRPV family.
Use of the malnutrition screening tool by non‐dietitians to identify at‐risk patients in a rehabilitation setting: A validation study
Authors: Wester Paulina , Angus Rebecca , Easlea Dayle , Lin Michelle , Chen Benjamin , Bisset Leanne
Published: March 2018

Aim

Malnutrition is highly prevalent in rehabilitation patients, and screening is important to allow for timely intervention to reduce the incidence of adverse clinical outcomes. We aimed to determine the reliability and validity of the commonly employed malnutrition screening tool by non‐dietitian staff in categorising patients at risk of malnutrition in the rehabilitation setting.

Methods

This prospective observational cohort study recruited 100 participants on admission to a rehabilitation ward. The malnutrition screening tool was applied by nursing staff and repeated by nutrition assistants. Results were compared to malnutrition as determined by dietitian‐applied subjective global assessment of each patient. Inter‐rater reliability tests were conducted with two dietitians, two nutrition assistants and two nurses independently but simultaneously recording malnutrition screening tool scores on a subgroup of 15 participants.

Results

Agreement between dietitian‐determined malnutrition and risk as identified by nutrition assistant and nursing staff screening tool application was only modest (64% and 51%, respectively). While both professions met the a priori criteria for acceptable specificity (≥60%), neither met the criterion for adequate sensitivity (≥80%). The inter‐rater reliability of the tool was excellent, with almost perfect agreement (≥0.89) between ward dietitian and nutrition assistants, and moderate to substantial agreement (0.56–0.65) with nursing staff, when compared to a senior dietitian.

Conclusions

Non‐dietitian staff failed to apply the malnutrition screening tool with sufficient sensitivity in normal ward practice to warrant its use in the rehabilitation setting. Alternative options for identification of malnutrition need to be considered to ensure appropriate treatment.
Are freelancers a breed apart? The role of protean and boundaryless career attitudes in employability and career success
Authors: Lo Presti Alessandro , Pluviano Sara , Briscoe Jon P.
Published: March 2018

Recent economic and organisational changes have fostered an increasing diversification of the workforce, among whom freelancers are an under‐represented population in the literature. This study aimed at examining the role of protean and boundaryless career, professional commitment, and employability activities in fostering freelancers' subjective career success. Data were collected via an online survey among a sample of 425 Italian freelancers and analysed through structural equation modelling. Results partially confirmed several hypotheses: higher self‐directed career management and boundaryless mindset predicted higher employability activities and professional commitment; moreover, employability and professional commitment acted as mediators between career attitudes and subjective career success. The study provides support for the importance of such variables to freelancers' career success, as well as for the significance of protean and boundaryless careers among nontraditional occupational groups. Interventions aimed at fostering such attitudes could support freelancers in improving their attainment of professional progress and perception of career success.
Non‐additivity in Accounting Valuation: Theory and Applications
Authors: Paugam Luc , Casta Jean‐François , Stolowy Hervé
Published: March 2018

This paper has three objectives. First, to introduce a theoretical solution to the issue of non‐additivity between assets in place, relying on an accounting‐based valuation approach. Second, to explain how such an approach can be implemented empirically by measuring synergies between assets. Third, to present the properties of this non‐additive valuation technique. We use Choquet capacities, that is, non‐additive aggregation operators, to measure the interactions between assets and apply our methodology to a sample of US firms from the capital goods industry. To operationalize our approach we examine the relationships between synergies—captured by Choquet capacities—and the market‐to‐book ratio (proxying for growth options), and show how interactions between assets are consistently linked to a firm’s market‐to‐book ratio. We also measure firm‐specific productive efficiency relative to the industry and firm size. For large firms, efficiency, as defined by our approach, is positively associated with higher future operating cash flows. For small firms, efficiency is positively associated with higher future sales growth. We document that the non‐additive approach appears to be better able to identify expected relationships between efficiency and future performance than a simpler approach based on the market‐to‐book ratio.
Text Messaging to Reduce Alcohol Relapse in Prelisting Liver Transplant Candidates: A Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: DeMartini Kelly S. , Schilsky Michael L. , Palmer Amanda , Fehon Dwain C. , Zimbrean Paula , O'Malley Stephanie S. , Lee Hochang B. , Toll Benjamin A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Many liver transplantation programs require documented alcohol sobriety prior to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) listing. This pilot study examined the feasibility of the first mobile, alcohol relapse prevention intervention for liver transplant patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD).

Methods

This was a randomized 8‐week pilot feasibility trial of a text message‐based alcohol intervention. In‐treatment assessment was conducted at 4 weeks (4W), and immediate posttreatment assessment was conducted at 8W. Participants were liver transplant candidates (N = 15) diagnosed with ALD who reported at least 1 drinking episode in the past year. Primary feasibility outcomes were percent of messages responded to and posttreatment intervention satisfaction ratings. Preliminary clinical efficacy outcomes were any biologically confirmed alcohol consumption, stress, abstinence self‐efficacy, and alcohol craving.

Results

On feasibility outcomes, participants responded to 81% of messages received and reported high rates of intervention satisfaction, looked forward to receiving the messages, and found it easy to complete the intervention. On preliminary efficacy outcomes, zero participants in the text message (TM) had positive urine alcohol tests at 8W. Two of the 6 participants in standard care (SC) tested positive at 8W. No effects were seen on craving. For stress, a condition × time interaction emerged. TM participants had less stress at 4W and 8W compared with SC at baseline. They maintained their stress level during the intervention. For self‐efficacy, a trend for condition effect emerged. TM participants had higher self‐efficacy than SC participants.

Conclusions

Participants reported high satisfaction with the intervention, looked forward to the messages, and found it easy to complete. Participants who received the intervention had better treatment outcomes than those who received standard care. They maintained higher levels of self‐efficacy and lower stress. Mobile alcohol interventions may hold significant promise to help ALD liver transplant patients maintain sobriety.
Patterns and predictors of conversion to bipolar disorder in 91 587 individuals diagnosed with unipolar depression
Authors: Musliner K. L. , Østergaard S. D.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Conversion from unipolar depression (UD) to bipolar disorder (BD) is a clinically important event that should lead to treatment modifications. Unfortunately, recognition of this transition is often delayed. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify predictors of diagnostic conversion from UD to BD.

Method

Historical prospective cohort study based on 91 587 individuals diagnosed with UD in Danish hospital psychiatry between 1995 and 2016. The association between a series of potential predictors and the conversion from UD to BD during follow‐up (702 710 person‐years) was estimated by means of Cox regression with death as competing risk.

Results

During follow‐up, 3910 individuals with UD developed BD. The cumulative incidence of conversion was slightly higher in females (8.7%, 95% CI: 8.2–9.3) compared to males (7.7%, 95% CI: 7.0–8.4). The strongest predictor of conversion from UD to BD was parental history of BD (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 2.60, 95% CI: 2.20–3.07)). Other predictors included psychotic depression at the index UD episode (aHR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.48–2.02), a prior/concomitant non‐affective psychosis (aHR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.51–1.99), and in‐patient treatment at the index episode (aHR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.63–1.91).

Conclusion

Diagnostic conversion from UD to BD is predicted by severe depression requiring in‐patient treatment, psychotic symptomatology, and parental history of BD.
Strong opioid prescription in cancer patients in their final year of life: A population‐based analysis using a Taiwanese health insurance database
Authors: Lin Yu‐Lin , Hsieh Ruey Kuen , Tang Chao‐Hsiun
Published: March 2018

Aim

Pain assessment and management have been important criteria in hospital accreditation in Taiwan since 2007. We used a Taiwanese health insurance database to determine factors influencing patterns of strong opioid use in cancer patients in their final 12 months of life.

Methods

Data from patients with cancer in Taiwan outpatient clinics with cancer‐related deaths between 2008 and 2011 were included in the analysis. Strong opioid prescription data from the last 12 months of each patient's life, as well as patient, physician, and hospital characteristics, were collected from the National Health Insurance Research Database.

Results

Among 162 679 patients, more were male (63.6%) than female (36.4%) and almost half (49.3%) were ≥70 years old. Most (44.9%) patients had gastrointestinal cancer. More than one‐third (35.4%) of patients were prescribed strong opioids during the 12 months before death, and more than half (53.2%) of those prescribed opioids received them in the 3 months before death. Median duration of strong opioid use was 81 days before death. Patients with head/neck cancer (52.8%) or who were treated in hematology and oncology departments (45.8%) were most likely, and patients with gastrointestinal cancer (hazard ratio = 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.64–0.67) or treated in gastroenterology departments (hazard ratio = 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.84–0.93) were least likely to be prescribed strong opioids.

Conclusion

Strong opioid prescriptions varied among patients with different cancer diagnoses and physicians. Information from this study can guide efforts to improve patient and physician education about cancer pain management.
Outcomes of Australian patients receiving non‐funded anti‐PD‐1 immune checkpoint inhibitors for non‐melanoma cancers
Authors: Tiu Crescens , Wong Annie , Herschtal Alan , Mileshkin Linda
Published: March 2018

Aim

To characterize the outcomes of patients with nonmelanoma solid tumors receiving anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy not funded by the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Methods

Medical records of patients with metastatic nonmelanoma tumor diagnoses treated with anti‐PD‐1 (self‐funded pembrolizumab or nivolumab through an access program) from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2016, at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, were retrospectively reviewed. Events after December 31, 2016, were censored.

Results

Of 47 patients identified, 27 (57%) had lung cancer. Twenty‐six had compassionate access to nivolumab (24 lung, one renal, one gastroesophageal with possible new lung primary). Median overall survival was 5.7 months. Eleven (23%) achieved a partial response; none had complete response. Twenty (43%) had disease progression on first imaging; 16 (48%) of these continued treatment beyond radiological progression, with three achieving subsequent partial responses. Ten (21%) were not re‐staged mostly due to rapid deterioration or death. At 6 and 12 months, nine (20%) and two (4%) remained on treatment, respectively. Five (12%) discontinued treatment due to immune‐related toxicities. Of 34 patients who died, 71% received treatment within the last month of life; 38% died in an acute hospital. None of 25 patients with poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance scores of 2–4 responded.

Conclusion

The response rates and overall survival of patients with NSCLC, renal carcinoma and triple negative breast cancer of good performance status receiving anti‐PD‐1 therapy outside of a clinical trial are consistent with clinical trial data. However, patients with poor ECOG performance status are unlikely to respond. Careful patient selection and counseling about the potential outcomes of self‐funding treatment in this setting is needed.
The Africa Yoga Project and Well‐Being: A Concept Map of Students’ Perceptions
Authors: Giambrone Carla A. , Cook‐Cottone Catherine P. , Klein Jessalyn E.
Published: March 2018

Background

Concept mapping methodology was used to explore the perceived impact of practicing yoga with the Africa Yoga Project (AYP)—an organisation created to increase health and well‐being by providing community‐based yoga classes throughout Kenya. AYP's mission fit with theoretical models of well‐being is discussed. Anecdotal evidence and initial qualitative research suggested the AYP meaningfully impacted adult students.

Methods

Of the hundreds of AYP's adult students, 56 and 82 students participated in Phases I and II, respectively. Phase I brainstorming resulted in 94 student‐generated statements about their perceived change. Phase II participants sorted and rated statements in terms of importance. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis of sort data was utilised to map and group statements into clusters.

Results

Based on statistical and interpretive criteria, a five‐cluster solution with the following concepts was identified as the best model of students’ change: Personal Growth; Interpersonal Effectiveness (lowest importance); Physical and Social Benefits; Emotional Resiliency; and Improved Self‐Concept (highest importance).

Conclusions

Overall, students reported positive perceptions of the AYP. Additional research is needed to quantify students’ change, and to compare the AYP outcomes to those of other programs aimed at poverty‐related stress reduction and well‐being.
β‐2 Agonists as Misusing Drugs? Assessment of both Clenbuterol‐ and Salbutamol‐related European Medicines Agency Pharmacovigilance Database Reports
Authors: Milano Giulia , Chiappini Stefania , Mattioli Francesca , Martelli Antonietta , Schifano Fabrizio
Published: March 2018

A recent years’ increase in misusing levels of image‐ and performance‐ enhancing drugs (IPEDs) has been observed. Out of these drugs, beta‐2 agonists have recently emerged for their potential of misuse, especially for slimming and bodybuilding purposes. To this perspective, clenbuterol (‘the size zero pill’) has been reported as being both popular and widely available from the illegal market. All clenbuterol and salbutamol misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal/overdose/off‐label spontaneous reports (2006–2016) from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) EudraVigilance (EV) database were collected and analysed by age range, gender, concomitant therapies and source of information. From the EV database, 55 of a total number of 920 ‘suspect’ misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal/overdose/off‐label ADRs (e.g. 5.97%; corresponding to 25 of 138 individuals) and 1310 of 62,879 ADRs (e.g. 2.08%; corresponding to 474 of 6923 individuals) were, respectively, associated with clenbuterol (typically ingested in combination with a range of anabolic steroids) and salbutamol. Proportional reporting ratio (PRR) value for misuse/abuse ADRs was higher (PRR = 18.38) for clenbuterol in comparison with salbutamol. Clenbuterol misuse/abuse could be a cause for major concern, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Understanding mothers’ decision‐making needs for autopsy consent after stillbirth: Framework analysis of a large survey
Authors: Schirmann Anne , Boyle Frances M. , Horey Dell , Siassakos Dimitrios , Ellwood David , Rowlands Ingrid , Flenady Vicki
Published: March 2018

Background

Experiencing stillbirth is devastating and leaves parents searching for causes. Autopsy is the gold standard for investigation, but deciding to consent to this procedure is very difficult for parents. Decision support in the form of clear, consistent, and parent‐centered information is likely to be helpful. The aims of this study were to understand the influences on parents’ decisions about autopsy after stillbirth and to identify attributes of effective decision support that align with parents’ needs.

Methods

Framework analysis using the Decision Drivers Model was used to analyze responses from 460 Australian and New Zealand (ANZ) mothers who took part in a multi‐country online survey of parents’ experiences of stillbirth. The main outcomes examined were factors influencing mothers’ decisions to consent to autopsy after stillbirth.

Results

Free‐text responses from 454 ANZ mothers referenced autopsy, yielding 1221 data segments for analysis. The data confirmed the difficult decision autopsy consent entails. Mothers had a strong need for answers coupled with a strong need to protect their baby. Four “decision drivers” were confirmed: preparedness for the decision; parental responsibility; possible consequences; and role of health professionals. Each had the capacity to influence decisions for or against autopsy. Also prominent were the “aftermath” of the decision: receiving the results; and decisional regret or uncertainty.

Conclusions

The influences on decisions about autopsy are diverse and unpredictable. Effective decision support requires a consistent and structured approach that is built on understanding of parents’ needs.
Children's emotion understanding in relation to attachment to mother and father
Authors: Psychogiou Lamprini , Nath Selina , Kallitsoglou Angeliki , Dimatis Konstantinos , Parry Elizabeth , Russell Abigail Emma , Yilmaz Merve , Kuyken Willem , Moberly Nicholas J.
Published: March 2018

Although attachment plays a key role in children's socio‐emotional development, little attention has been paid to the role of children's attachment to their father. This study examined whether insecure attachment to each parent was associated with reduced emotion understanding in children and whether children showed consistent attachments to their mother and father. We measured children's attachment to each parent using the Manchester Child Attachment Story Task and child emotion understanding using the Test of Emotion Comprehension (children's Mage = 5.64 years, SD = 0.84). The results indicated that insecure father–child attachment and insecure mother–child attachment were each associated with lower emotion understanding in children after controlling for parent's depressive symptoms and children's age. There was significant concordance of child attachment to mother and father. The findings provide support for convergence of children's attachment across parents and suggest that father–child attachment is an important factor to consider when examining children's emotion understanding.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject

Secure mother–child attachment is positively associated with children's emotional competence.

Children form similar representations of attachment to their mother and father.

What the present study adds

Both mother–child and father–child attachment are associated with children's emotion understanding.

The study's findings highlight the importance of father–child attachment in their children's emotion understanding.

The study provides support for concordance of children's attachment across parents.
Media exposure to terrorism and people's risk perception: The role of environmental sensitivity and psychophysiological response to stress
Authors: Rubaltelli Enrico , Scrimin Sara , Moscardino Ughetta , Priolo Giulia , Buodo Giulia
Published: March 2018

Terrorist attacks have a destabilizing impact on the general population, causing distress and fear. However, not all individuals are equally susceptible to the effects of terror threat. This study aimed to examine whether exposure to terrorism‐related pictures interacted with individual differences in environmental sensitivity and psychophysiological response to stress to explain people's risk perception, operationalized as perceived likelihood of a terrorist attack and willingness to trade off one's privacy to increase national security. Ninety‐five university students were randomly assigned to one of two conditions (terrorism‐related vs. neutral pictures). After watching the pictures, they answered questions concerning risk perception and completed questionnaires. Stress was induced by the Mannheim Multicomponent Stress Test, during which heart rate was recorded. Results showed that the perceived likelihood of future attacks was affected by the interaction between exposure to terrorism pictures and psychophysiological reactivity to stress, whereas willingness to trade off one's privacy to improve national security was influenced by the interaction between exposure to terrorism pictures and environmental sensitivity. The study suggests that individuals high in sensitivity and psychophysiological stress reactivity are particularly affected by terrorism‐related pictures. Psychologists should direct their efforts to raise general awareness of the negative effects, especially for some people, of such media coverage.
High IDO‐1 expression in tumor endothelial cells is associated with response to immunotherapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Seeber Andreas , Klinglmair Gerald , Fritz Josef , Steinkohl Fabian , Zimmer Kai‐Christian , Aigner Friedrich , Horninger Wolfgang , Gastl Günther , Zelger Bettina , Brunner Andrea , Pichler Renate
Published: March 2018

Nivolumab belongs to the standard therapy in the second‐line setting of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Although deep and long‐lasting responses are seen in some patients, the majority of patients will further progress. PD‐L1 is still under critical evaluation as a predictive biomarker. Thus, more accurate biomarkers are clearly warranted. Here, we investigated for the first time the predictive role of IDO‐1, a negative immune‐regulatory molecule, on clear cell RCC tissues of 15 patients undergoing nivolumab therapy. IDO‐1 and other immune inhibitory molecules (PD‐L1, PD‐L2, FOXP3) as well as immune cell subsets (CD3, CD4 and CD8) were measured on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded sections of RCC specimens by immunohistochemistry. IDO‐1 was predominantly expressed in tumor endothelial cells, and was totally absent from tumor cells itself. IDO‐1 overexpression (>10%) could be detected more frequently in responders (100%, n = 6/6) compared to non‐responders (33.3%, n = 3/9; P = .028), resulting in a better progression‐free survival during immunotherapy (IDO‐1 ≤ 10% vs >10%, median: 3.5 vs not estimated (NE) months, P = .01 by log‐rank test). In addition, IDO‐1 was positively correlated with CD8+ T cell expression (rs = .691, P = .006). PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells was negative in 13 (86.7%) of 15 patients, irrespective of therapeutic response (responders vs non‐responders: 83.3% vs 88.9%). No differences were noticed in the PD‐L1 expression on tumor‐infiltrating immune cells (PD‐L1 < 1% in 66.7% of both responders and non‐responders). In contrast to PD‐L1, these results suggest that IDO‐1 may be a more promising predictive biomarker for response to immune‐based cancer therapy in mRCC.
Dental follicle mesenchymal stem cells down‐regulate Th2‐mediated immune response in asthmatic patients mononuclear cells
Authors: Genç D. , Zibandeh N. , Nain E. , Gökalp M. , Özen A. O. , Göker M. K. , Akkoç T.
Published: March 2018

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease in which inflammatory responses have the polarisation of CD4+ T cells to Th2 cells. Dental follicle mesenchymal stem cells (DFSCs) have strong anti‐inflammatory properties comparable to other mesenchymal stem cells.

Objective

We investigated the immunomodulatory effects of DFSCs on CD4+ T helper cell responses of asthmatic patients and compared the results with those obtained with asthmatic subjects on immunotherapy and with healthy individuals.

Method

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from immunotherapy naïve asthmatics, asthmatics on subcutaneous Der p1 immunotherapy and from healthy individuals. PBMC were pre‐conditioned with anti‐CD3/anti‐CD28 mAbs, Der p1 or IFN‐γ in the presence and absence of DFSCs and analysed for T cell viability and proliferation, CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cell frequencies, cytokine expression, and GATA3, T bet and FoxP3 expressions. Neutralisation of TGF‐β and blockade of IDO and PGE2 pathways were performed to determine suppressive signalling pathways of DFSCs.

Results

Dental follicle mesenchymal stem cells suppressed proliferative responses of CD4+ T lymphocytes and increased the frequency of Treg cells. DFSCs decreased effector and effector memory CD4+ T cell phenotypes in favour of naïve T cell markers. DFSCs decreased IL‐4 and GATA3 expression and increased IFN‐γ, T‐bet and IL‐10 expression in asthmatics. Costimulatory molecules were suppressed in monocytes with DFSCs in the cocultures. DFSCs down‐regulated inflammatory responses via IDO and TGF‐β pathways in asthmatic patients.

Conclusion

Dental follicle mesenchymal stem cells suppressed allergen‐induced Th2‐cell polarisation in favour of Th1 responses and attenuated antigen‐presenting cell co‐stimulatory activities. These studies suggest that DFSC‐based cell therapy may provide pro‐tolerogenic immunomodulation relevant to allergic diseases such as asthma.
Accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas in long eyes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Qiwei , Jiang Wu , Lin Tiao , Zhu Yi , Chen Chuan , Lin Haotian , Chen Weirong
Published: March 2018

Importance

Visual outcome after intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in long eyes is considerably affected by IOL power calculation. Various formulas have been designed to achieve an accurate IOL power prediction. However, controversy about the accuracy remains.

Background

To evaluate the accuracy of IOL power calculation formulas in long eyes.

Design

Meta‐analysis.

Participants

Patients with ocular axial length (AL) over 24.5 mm.

Methods

A comprehensive search in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Data Base of Systematic Reviews and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were conducted by September, 2017. The weighted mean differences of mean absolute errors (MAE) and the odds ratio of percentage of eyes within ±0.50D of prediction error among formulas were analysed.

Main Outcomes Measures

Between‐group differences of MAE among formulas.

Results

Eleven observational studies, involving 4047 eyes, were enrolled. Six formulas for IOL power calculation were compared: Barrett Universal II, Haigis, Holladay 2, SRK/T, Hoffer Q and Holladay 1. The MAE of Barrett Universal II was statistically lower than that of Holladay 2 (mean difference, MD = −0.04D, P = 0.0002), SRK/T (MD = −0.05D, P < 0.00001), Hoffer Q (MD = −0.07D, P < 0.00001) and Holladay 1 (MD = −0.07D, P < 0.00001). Barrett Universal II yielded significantly higher percentage of eyes within ±0.50D of the prediction error than the other formulas. The heterogeneity was minimized through dividing eyes into two groups by the AL of 26 mm.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study demonstrates the superiority of Barrett Universal II over Holladay 2, SRK/T, Hoffer Q and Holladay 1 in predicting IOL power in long eyes.
Evidence‐based knowledge on the aesthetics and maintenance of peri‐implant soft tissues: Osteology Foundation Consensus Report Part 2—Effects of hard tissue augmentation procedures on the maintenance of peri‐implant tissues
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Giannobile William V. , Jung Ronald E. ,   on behalf of the Groups of the 2nd Osteology Foundation Consensus Meeting
Published: March 2018

Objectives

One task of Working Group 1 at the 2nd Consensus Meeting of the Osteology Foundation was to comprehensively assess the effects of hard tissue augmentation procedures on peri‐implant health or disease.

Materials and methods

One systematic review and meta‐analysis on the effects of hard tissue augmentation procedures included a total of eight studies (n = 12 publications). Consensus statements, clinical recommendations, and implications for future research were based on structured group discussions and plenary session approval.

Results

After 1–10 years of follow‐ up, lateral bone augmentation procedures were associated with peri‐implant tissue stability, as evidenced by minimal and non‐significant changes in bleeding on probing, probing depth, and marginal bone levels. Case definitions based on clinical and radiographic parameters to differentiate peri‐implant health from disease have been inconsistently employed in the studies investigated.

Conclusions

Lateral bone augmentation procedures are associated with peri‐implant tissue stability on short‐term (1–3 years) and midterm follow‐ups to long‐term (>3 years) follow‐ups.
Effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on peri‐implant health or disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Naenni Nadja , Figuero Elena , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Schwarz Frank , Jung Ronald E. , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio
Published: March 2018

Objective

To review the dental literature in terms of soft tissue augmentation procedures and their influence on peri‐implant health or disease in partially and fully edentulous patients.

Methods

A MEDLINE search from 1966 to 2016 was performed to identify controlled clinical studies comparing soft tissue grafting versus no soft tissue grafting (maintenance) or two types of soft tissue grafting procedures at implant sites. The soft tissue grafting procedures included either an increase of keratinized tissue or an increase of the thickness of the peri‐implant mucosa. Studies reporting on the peri‐implant tissue health, as assessed by bleeding or gingival indices, were included in the review. The search was complemented by an additional hand search of all selected full‐text articles and reviews published between 2011 and 2016. The initial search yielded a total number of 2,823 studies. Eligible studies were selected based on the inclusion criteria (finally included: four studies on gain of keratinized tissue; six studies on gain of mucosal thickness) and quality assessments conducted. Meta‐analyses were applied whenever possible.

Results

Soft tissue grafting procedures for gain of keratinized tissue resulted in a significantly greater improvement of gingival index values compared to maintenance groups (with or without keratinized tissue) [n = 2; WMD = 0.863; 95% CI (0.658; 1.067); p < .001]. For final marginal bone levels, statistically significant differences were calculated in favor of an apically positioned flap (APF) plus autogenous grafts versus all control treatments (APF alone; APF plus a collagen matrix; maintenance without intervention [with or without residual keratinized tissue]) [n = 4; WMD = −0.175 mm; 95% CI: (−0.313; −0.037); p = .013]. Soft tissue grafting procedures for gain of mucosal thickness did not result in significant improvements in bleeding indices over time, but in significantly less marginal bone loss over time [WMD = 0.110; 95% CI: 0.067; 0.154; p < .001] and a borderline significance for marginal bone levels at the study endpoints compared to sites without grafting.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this review, it was concluded that soft tissue grafting procedures result in more favorable peri‐implant health: (i) for gain of keratinized mucosa using autogenous grafts with a greater improvement of bleeding indices and higher marginal bone levels; (ii) for gain of mucosal thickness using autogenous grafts with significantly less marginal bone loss.
Syncope as a subject of the risk assessment of pulmonary thromboembolism to be used for: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ozyurt Songul , Ozsu Savas , Erbay Muge , Oztuna Funda , Gumus Aziz , Sahin Unal
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Syncope is infrequent in pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) yet might be indicative of haemodynamic instability. The prognostic role of syncope in PTE has not been well documented.

Objectives

In this study, the association between risk classification of the European Society of Cardiology and syncope was investigated in the normotensive PTE patients.

Methods

We retrospectively screened electronic medical records of patients who were admitted in 2 tertiary care hospital and diagnosis of PTE with computed tomography pulmonary angiography. Patients with hypotension (high risk) at the time of admission were excluded from the study.

Results

Of 5% patients (16/322) had syncope with the proportion of 81.3% (13/16) in the intermediate high risky group, 18.7% (3/16) in intermediate low risk group and 0% in low risk group. Mortality rate was higher in subjects with syncope (25% vs 11.1%) although it was not it was not statistically significant (P = NS). In those with syncope, the central venous thrombus was more frequent than those without it (78.6% vs 30.1%, P = .008). Only heart rate and intermediate high‐risk group were retained as independent predictors of syncope selection in the multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion

Although syncope is positively correlated with the severity of PTE, it does not predict the prognosis alone. Nonetheless, syncope in patients with PTE can be considered as an important alarming stimulus for clinical course.