bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of GPR55 increases neural stem cell proliferation and promotes early adult hippocampal neurogenesis
Authors: Hill Jeremy D , Zuluaga‐Ramirez Viviana , Gajghate Sachin , Winfield Malika , Persidsky Yuri
Published: June 2018

Background and Purpose

The cannabinoid system exerts functional regulation of neural stem cell (NSC) proliferation and adult neurogenesis, yet not all effects of cannabinoid‐like compounds seen can be attributed to the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) or CB2 receptor. The recently de‐orphaned GPR55 has been shown to be activated by numerous cannabinoid ligands suggesting that GPR55 is a third cannabinoid receptor. Here, we examined the role of GPR55 activation in NSC proliferation and early adult neurogenesis.

Experimental Approach

The effects of GPR55 agonists (LPI, O‐1602, ML184) on human (h) NSC proliferation in vitro were assessed by flow cytometry. Human NSC differentiation was determined by flow cytometry, qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Immature neuron formation in the hippocampus of C57BL/6 and GPR55−/− mice was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Key Results

Activation of GPR55 significantly increased proliferation rates of hNSCs in vitro. These effects were attenuated by ML193, a selective GPR55 antagonist. ML184 significantly promoted neuronal differentiation in vitro while ML193 reduced differentiation rates as compared to vehicle treatment. Continuous administration of O‐1602 into the hippocampus via a cannula connected to an osmotic pump resulted in increased Ki67+ cells within the dentate gyrus. O‐1602 increased immature neuron generation, as assessed by DCX+ and BrdU+ cells, as compared to vehicle‐treated animals. GPR55−/− animals displayed reduced rates of proliferation and neurogenesis within the hippocampus while O‐1602 had no effect as compared to vehicle controls.

Conclusions and Implications

Together, these findings suggest GPR55 activation as a novel target and strategy to regulate NSC proliferation and adult neurogenesis.
How do consent forms for diagnostic high‐throughput sequencing address unsolicited and secondary findings? A content analysis
Authors: Vears D.F. , Niemiec E. , Howard H.C. , Borry P.
Published: June 2018

Whole exome and whole genome sequencing are increasingly being offered to patients in the clinical setting. Yet, the question of whether, and to what extent, unsolicited findings (UF) and/or secondary findings (SF) should be returned to patients remains open and little is known about how diagnostic consent forms address this issue. We systematically identified consent forms for diagnostic genomic sequencing online and used inductive content analysis to determine if and how they discuss reporting of UF and SF, and whether patients are given options regarding the return of these results. Fifty‐four forms representing 38 laboratories/clinics were analyzed. A quarter of the forms did not mention UF or SF. Forms used a variety of terms to discuss UF and SF, sometimes using these interchangeably or incorrectly. Reporting policies for UF varied: 5 forms stated that UF will not be returned, 15 indicated UF may be returned, and 28 did not specify their policy. One‐third indicated their laboratory returns SF. Addressing inconsistent terminology and providing sufficient information about UF/SF in consent forms will increase patient understanding and help ensure adequate informed consent.
Metal hypersensitivity in patients with orthopaedic implant complications—A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Furrer Stefan , Scherer Hofmeier Kathrin , Grize Leticia , Bircher Andreas J.
Published: June 2018

Background

Hypersensitivity to metals as a cause of implant‐related complications has been a subject of controversy. Projections indicate an increase in the frequency of joint replacements of between 300% and 600% by the year 2030; therefore, this issue is of considerable interest.

Objective

To evaluate sensitization to implant materials in patients with implant‐related complications, to identify allergens, and to clarify whether hypersensitivity is a relevant cause.

Methods

Patients with implant‐related complications or a positive history of contact allergy and planned total joint replacements referred for allergological investigation between 2004 and 2017 were retrospectively analysed.

Results

In total, 311 patients were included. A positive patch test reaction to a metal was seen in 64.4% of preoperative patients and in 54.6% of patients with implant‐related complications. Common alloy metals such as cobalt, chromium and titanium gave positive reactions in up to 2.9% of patients with implant‐related complications. None of the patients with skin changes had a positive patch test reaction to an implant metal.

Conclusion

Other factors, such as the type of replaced joint and mechanical stress, seem to be more relevant for implant‐related complications. Sensitization to metals or other materials seems to rarely play a role, and is overestimated.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by acrylic‐based medical dressings and adhesives
Authors: Mestach Lien , Huygens Sara , Goossens An , Gilissen Liesbeth
Published: June 2018

Background

Acrylates and methacrylates are acrylic resin monomers that are known to induce skin sensitization as a result of their presence in different materials, such as nail cosmetics, dental materials, printing inks, and adhesives. Allergic contact dermatitis resulting from the use of modern wound dressings containing them has only rarely been reported.

Objectives

To describe 2 patients who developed allergic contact dermatitis caused by acrylic‐based modern medical dressings and/or adhesives.

Methods

The medical charts of patients consulting since 1990 were retrospectively reviewed for (meth)acrylate allergy resulting from contact with such materials, and their demographic characteristics and patch test results were analysed.

Results

Two patients were observed in 2014 and 2016 who had presented with positive patch test reactions to several acrylic‐based dressings and/or adhesive materials, and to several (meth)acrylates, that is, hydroxyethyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, bisphenol A‐glycidyl methacrylate/epoxy‐acrylate, urethane diacrylate, and/or penta‐erythritol acrylate.

Conclusions

Allergic contact dermatitis needs to be considered in patients with eczematous reactions or delayed healing following the use of acrylic‐based modern dressings or adhesives. However, identification of the culprit allergen is hampered by poor cooperation from the producers, so adequate labelling of medical devices is an urgent necessity.
The Informal Economy as a Site of Liquidity: Pakistan's Land Market
Authors: Settle Antonia C.
Published: June 2018

Based on extensive fieldwork, this article examines new informality in Pakistan's land market by which vacant plots of land are transacted informally between market actors in rapidly reversed short‐term holdings. The analysis pivots around the changing economic environment in Pakistan with the shift from heavy regulation of money and controlled pricing, to the liberalization of money and markets. The author explores how liquidity is taken up as a microeconomic strategy to protect against new financial risk in this environment, and how this is played out as a preference for informal transactions. These practices inform a case study that contributes to the established literature on the links between globalization and the informal economy by articulating a driver of growing informal transactions that is novel to the literature.
Traction‐assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection for a giant rectal tumor: Multiple clip‐and‐threads technique
Authors: Yamasaki Yasushi , Harada Keita , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: June 2018

Watch videos of this article.
Glycaemic status and depressive symptoms among adults in Germany: results from the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults (DEGS1)
Authors: Weikert B. , Buttery A. K. , Heidemann C. , Rieckmann N. , Paprott R. , Maske U. E. , Scheidt‐Nave C. , Busch M. A.
Published: June 2018

Aims

To examine the association between glycaemic status and depressive symptoms in a nationwide sample of the adult population in Germany.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of data from 6385 participants aged 18–79 years in the nationwide German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults 2008–2011 (DEGS1). Glycaemic status was classified as follows: diagnosed diabetes (self‐reported diagnosis or receiving antidiabetes medication); undiagnosed diabetes (HbA1c ≥48 mmol/mol [≥6.5%]); prediabetes (HbA1c 39–47 mmol/mol [5.7–6.4%]); or normoglycaemia (HbA1c <39 mmol/mol [<5.7%]). Current depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale (PHQ‐9) and defined as elevated depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9 score ≥10 points; dichotomous variable) and severity of depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9 score, range 0–27 points; continuous variable). Associations of glycaemic status and HbA1c with both depressive symptoms variables were analysed using multivariable logistic (elevated depressive symptoms) and linear (severity of depressive symptoms) regression models.

Results

Compared with normoglycaemia, diagnosed diabetes, but not prediabetes or undiagnosed diabetes, was associated with elevated depressive symptoms (odds ratio 1.55, 95% CI 1.00–2.41) and severity of depressive symptoms (β coefficient 0.71, 95% CI 0.23–1.19) in models adjusting for sociodemographics and health behaviours. Associations were similar among people with diagnosed diabetes taking and not taking antidiabetes medication. Among people without diagnosed diabetes, no associations between HbA1c and depressive symptoms were found.

Conclusions

Diagnosed diabetes, but not prediabetes, undiagnosed diabetes or HbA1c, was associated with depressive symptoms among adults in Germany. Studies examining psychosocial and biological mechanisms that may potentially explain relationships between diagnosed diabetes and depressive symptoms are needed.
In vitro tooth reattachment techniques: A systematic review
Authors: de Sousa Amanda Pinto Bandeira Rodrigues , França Kamilla , de Lucas Rezende Liliana Vicente Melo , do Nascimento Poubel Déborah Lousan , Almeida Julio César Franco , de Toledo Isabela Porto , Garcia Fernanda Cristina Pimentel
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims

Fragment reattachment is a procedure that offers advantages, such as preservation of tooth structure and maintenance of color, shape, and translucency of the original tooth. The aim of this study was to analyze the reattachment techniques used to restore anterior teeth fractured by trauma.

Materials and Methods

The PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were searched in October 2016, and the search was updated in February 2017. A search of the gray literature was performed in Google Scholar and OpenGrey. Reference lists of eligible studies were evaluated to identify additional studies. Two authors assessed studies for inclusion and extracted the data. In vitro studies that evaluated permanent human teeth fractured by trauma were included.

Results

Twenty‐one studies remained after screening. The bond strength between the fragment and the crown was evaluated in 119 experimental groups. Ten different techniques were evaluated as follows: no preparation, chamfer, bevel, anchors, overcontour, internal groove, no preparation associated with chamfer after reattachment, fragment dentin removal associated with chamfer after reattachment, bevel associated with overcontour, and groove associated with shoulder. Five different materials were used to reattach the fragment: bonding system, luting composite resin, flowable composite, microhybrid composite, and nanocomposite.

Conclusion

Fragment reattachment using a technique with no preparation and an adhesive system associated with an intermediate composite with good mechanical properties can restore part of the resistance of the fractured tooth.
Are patterns of violence and aggression at presentation in patients with first‐episode psychosis temporally stable? A comparison of 2 cohorts
Authors: Keane Sarah , Szigeti Attila , Fanning Felicity , Clarke Mary
Published: June 2018

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and clinical correlates of aggression and violence in individuals presenting with first‐episode psychosis (FEP) and to evaluate whether this prevalence has changed in recent years when compared to a similar previous study.

Methods

Retrospective cross‐sectional study of clinical case notes and database records using a keyword search of a sample of patients with FEP (n = 132) aged between 18 and 65 years presenting from a geographically defined catchment area to a secondary referral psychiatric service over a 4‐year period (2010‐2013 inclusive). Use of the Modified Overt Aggression Scale to retrospectively assess aggression and violence in the week prior to, and post, presentation with FEP.

Results

The overall proportion of individuals found to be aggressive and violent was 36% and 29%, respectively. These rates were similar to the 1995 to 1998 cohort (ie, 33% and 29%). A higher percentage of our sample (22%) was violent in the week prior to presentation compared to the 1995 to 1998 cohort (13%). Aggression was independently associated with involuntary (odds ratio [OR] = 4.085, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.310‐12.733) and inpatient treatment status (OR = 0.109, 95% CI 0.023‐0.532) in the week prior to presentation and with high activation (OR = 6.770, 95% CI 1.372‐33.394) and involuntary treatment status (OR = 10.163, 95% CI 2.257‐45.759) in the week following presentation. Violence was associated with involuntary (OR = 3.691, 95% CI 1.197‐11.382) and inpatient status (OR = 0.096, 95% CI 0.020‐0.465) in the week prior to and with high activation (OR = 29.513 95% CI 1.879‐463.676) the week following presentation.

Conclusions

Aggression and violence rates in FEP appear relatively stable over time.
Pediatric thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Joly Bérangère S. , Coppo Paul , Veyradier Agnès
Published: June 2018

Child‐onset thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare entity of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The pathophysiology of the disease is based on a severe functional deficiency of ADAMTS13 (activity <10%), the specific von Willebrand factor (VWF)‐cleavage protease. This deficiency may be either acquired (associated anti‐ADAMTS13 autoantibodies) or congenital (resulting from biallelic mutations of ADAMTS13 gene). ADAMTS13 deficiency is responsible for the accumulation of high molecular weight multimers of VWF and the formation of platelet thrombi in the microcirculation. Consequently, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and consumption thrombocytopenia are associated with organ ischemia. The differential diagnosis with other TMAs, autoimmune cytopenias or hematological malignancies may be challenging. The exploration of ADAMTS13 (activity, antibodies, antigen, ADAMTS13 gene) supports the diagnosis of TTP. The first‐line treatment of the acute phase of TTP is based on plasmatherapy. In congenital TTP, patients with a chronic disease benefit from a prophylactic plasmatherapy. In autoimmune TTP, steroids and B‐cells depleting therapies increasingly are used together with plasma exchange. Long‐term follow‐up including the monitoring of ADAMTS13 activity is mandatory. A severe decrease in ADAMTS13 activity (<10%) may predict relapses and preemptive B‐cell depletion with rituximab can be used to prevent relapses.
The initiation of cannabis use in adolescence is predicted by sex‐specific psychosocial and neurobiological features
Authors: Spechler Philip A. , Allgaier Nicholas , Chaarani Bader , Whelan Robert , Watts Richard , Orr Catherine , Albaugh Matthew D. , D'Alberto Nicholas , Higgins Stephen T. , Hudson Kelsey E. , Mackey Scott , Potter Alexandra , Banaschewski Tobias , Bokde Arun L. W. , Bromberg Uli , Büchel Christian , Cattrell Anna , Conrod Patricia J. , Desrivières Sylvane , Flor Herta , Frouin Vincent , Gallinat Jürgen , Gowland Penny , Heinz Andreas , Ittermann Bernd , Martinot Jean‐Luc , Paillère Martinot Marie‐Laure , Nees Frauke , Papadopoulos Orfanos Dimitri , Paus Tomáš , Poustka Luise , Smolka Michael N. , Walter Henrik , Schumann Gunter , Althoff Robert R. , Garavan Hugh ,   and the IMAGEN Consortium
Published: June 2018

Cannabis use initiated during adolescence might precipitate negative consequences in adulthood. Thus, predicting adolescent cannabis use prior to any exposure will inform the aetiology of substance abuse by disentangling predictors from consequences of use. In this prediction study, data were drawn from the IMAGEN sample, a longitudinal study of adolescence. All selected participants (n = 1,581) were cannabis‐naïve at age 14. Those reporting any cannabis use (out of six ordinal use levels) by age 16 were included in the outcome group (N = 365, males n = 207). Cannabis‐naïve participants at age 14 and 16 were included in the comparison group (N = 1,216, males n = 538). Psychosocial, brain and genetic features were measured at age 14 prior to any exposure. Cross‐validated regularized logistic regressions for each use level by sex were used to perform feature selection and obtain prediction error statistics on independent observations. Predictors were probed for sex‐ and drug‐specificity using post‐hoc logistic regressions. Models reliably predicted use as indicated by satisfactory prediction error statistics, and contained psychosocial features common to both sexes. However, males and females exhibited distinct brain predictors that failed to predict use in the opposite sex or predict binge drinking in independent samples of same‐sex participants. Collapsed across sex, genetic variation on catecholamine and opioid receptors marginally predicted use. Using machine learning techniques applied to a large multimodal dataset, we identified a risk profile containing psychosocial and sex‐specific brain prognostic markers, which were likely to precede and influence cannabis initiation.
Striatal alcohol cue‐reactivity is stronger in male than female problem drinkers
Authors: Kaag Anne Marije , Wiers Reinout W. , de Vries Taco J. , Pattij Tommy , Goudriaan Anna E.
Published: June 2018

Despite apparent sex differences in the development and treatment of alcohol use disorder, relatively little is known about the underlying neural mechanisms. In this study, we therefore investigated neural cue‐reactivity in a sample of male (n = 28) and female (n = 27) problem drinkers (matched on age and alcohol use severity) with an average alcohol use disorder identification test score of 12 which is indicative of a likely alcohol use disorder. Neural cue‐reactivity data were extracted from four regions of interest: the ventral and dorsal striatum and the ventral and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. While the cue‐reactivity paradigm induced similar levels of self‐reported craving in men and women, visual alcohol cues induced significantly stronger striatal activation in men compared to drinkers. While sex differences in ventral striatal cue‐reactivity were partly explained by sex differences in alcohol intake, cannabis use, negative affect and anxiety, this was not the case for sex differences in dorsal striatal cue‐reactivity. These results suggest that alcohol cues are differentially processed by men and women and that the neurobiological mechanisms behind cue‐reactivity differ between the sexes. Consequently, paradigms using alcohol‐related pictures may not be optimal to induce cue‐reactivity in female drinkers and may not be optimal to measure neurobiological markers of alcohol use severity and relapse. Future alcohol cue‐reactivity studies should, in addition to including both men and women, include different types of cues (e.g., stressors and imagery in addition to pictures) to assess sex differences in alcohol cue‐reactivity.
Mechanisms of increased hippocampal excitability in the Mashl+/− mouse model of Na+/K+‐ATPase dysfunction
Authors: Hunanyan Arsen S. , Helseth Ashley R. , Abdelnour Elie , Kherallah Bassil , Sachdev Monisha , Chung Leeyup , Masoud Melanie , Richardson Jordan , Li Qiang , Nadler J. Victor , Moore Scott D. , Mikati Mohamad A.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Na+/K+‐ATPase dysfunction, primary (mutation) or secondary (energy crisis, neurodegenerative disease) increases neuronal excitability in the brain. To evaluate the mechanisms underlying such increased excitability we studied mice carrying the D801N mutation, the most common mutation causing human disease, specifically alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) including epilepsy. Because the gene is expressed in all neurons, particularly γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic interneurons, we hypothesized that the pathophysiology would involve both pyramidal cells and interneurons and that fast‐spiking interneurons, which have increased firing rates, would be most vulnerable.

Methods

We performed extracellular recordings, as well as whole‐cell patch clamp recordings from pyramidal cells and interneurons, in the CA1 region on hippocampal slices. We also performed immunohistochemistry from hippocampal sections to count CA1 pyramidal cells as well as parvalbumin‐positive interneurons. In addition, we performed video—electroencephalography (EEG) recordings from the dorsal hippocampal CA1 region.

Results

We observed that juvenile knock‐in mice carrying the above mutation reproduce the human phenotype of AHC. We then demonstrated in the CA1 region of these mice the following findings as compared to wild type: (1) Increased number of spikes evoked by electrical stimulation of Schaffer collaterals; (2) equalization by bicuculline of the number of spikes induced by Schaffer collateral stimulation; (3) reduced miniature, spontaneous, and evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents, but no change in excitatory postsynaptic currents; (4) robust action potential frequency adaptation in response to depolarizing current injection in CA1 fast‐spiking interneurons; and (5) no change in the number of pyramidal cells, but reduced number of parvalbumin positive interneurons.

Significance

Our data indicate that, in our genetic model of Atp1α3 mutation, there is increased excitability and marked dysfunction in GABAergic inhibition. This supports the performance of further investigations to determine if selective expression of the mutation in GABAergic and or glutamatergic neurons is necessary and sufficient to result in the behavioral phenotype.
The effects of oxcarbazepine, levetiracetam, and lamotrigine on semen quality, sexual function, and sex hormones in male adults with epilepsy
Authors: Wu Dongmei , Chen Lang , Ji Fayuan , Si Yang , Sun Hongbin
Published: June 2018

Objective

To investigate the effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs; oxcarbazepine [OXC], levetiracetam [LEV], and lamotrigine [LTG]) on semen quality, sexual function, and sex hormones in male adults with epilepsy.

Methods

Individual treatment with OXC, LEV, or LTG was randomly assigned to 38 newly diagnosed male adult patients with epilepsy. Semen quality and sex hormones were measured before treatment and 6 months after taking the medicine. A questionnaire was administered using the International Index of Erectile Function Scale‐5 and the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool Self‐Assessment Scale to evaluate sexual function, followed by an analysis of the comparison between the treated patients and healthy volunteers (healthy controls) as well as the changes and differences between the patients themselves before and after treatment.

Results

The total sperm count, fast forward movement rate (FFMR), survival rate, and normal sperm rate in the group with epilepsy were lower than those in healthy controls (P < .05). The FFMR and survival rate of sperm after OXC treatment were significantly higher than before treatment (P < .05). All semen parameters after LEV and LTG showed a possible trend for improvement, but no significant statistical difference. There was no significant difference in sexual function between patients and the control group, as well as before and after treatment with the 3 different AEDs. There was no significant difference in sex hormone levels in the epilepsy group before treatment compared with the healthy controls, or when compared after treatment with the 3 different AEDs. The marital rate and fertility rate of patients with epilepsy were significantly lower than those of healthy controls (P < .05).

Significance

The semen quality of males with epilepsy is decreased even before treatment. The AEDs (OXC, LEV, and LTG) have no significant effect on sexual function and sex hormones, and OXC can improve the sperm FFMR and survival rate.
Differentiation of Self and Dyadic Adjustment in Couple Relationships: A Dyadic Analysis Using the Actor‐Partner Interdependence Model
Authors: Lampis Jessica , Cataudella Stefania , Agus Mirian , Busonera Alessandra , Skowron Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2018

Bowen's multigenerational theory provides an account of how the internalization of experiences within the family of origin promotes development of the ability to maintain a distinct self whilst also making intimate connections with others. Differentiated people can maintain their I‐position in intimate relationships. They can remain calm in conflictual relationships, resolve relational problems effectively, and reach compromises. Fusion with others, emotional cut‐off, and emotional reactivity instead are common reactions to relational stress in undifferentiated people. Emotional reactivity is the tendency to react to stressors with irrational and intense emotional arousal. Fusion with others is an excessive emotional involvement in significant relationships, whilst emotional cut‐off is the tendency to manage relationship anxiety through physical and emotional distance. This study is based on Bowen's theory, starting from the assumption that dyadic adjustment can be affected both by a member's differentiation of self (actor effect) and by his or her partner's differentiation of self (partner effect). We used the Actor‐Partner Interdependence Model to study the relationship between differentiation of self and dyadic adjustment in a convenience sample of 137 heterosexual Italian couples (nonindependent, dyadic data). The couples completed the Differentiation of Self Inventory and the Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Men's dyadic adjustment depended only on their personal I‐position, whereas women's dyadic adjustment was affected by their personal I‐position and emotional cut‐off as well as by their partner's I‐position and emotional cut‐off. The empirical and clinical implications of the results are discussed.
The global prevalence and correlates of skin bleaching: a meta‐analysis and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Sagoe Dominic , Pallesen Ståle , Dlova Ncoza C. , Lartey Margaret , Ezzedine Khaled , Dadzie Ophelia
Published: June 2018

Purpose

To estimate and investigate the global lifetime prevalence and correlates of skin bleaching.

Methods

A meta‐analysis and meta‐regression analysis was performed based on a systematic and comprehensive literature search conducted in Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, ProQuest, PsycNET, PubMed, and other relevant websites and reference lists. A total of 68 studies (67,665 participants) providing original data on the lifetime prevalence of skin bleaching were included. Publication bias was corrected using the trim and fill procedure.

Results

The pooled (imputed) lifetime prevalence of skin bleaching was 27.7% (95% CI: 19.6–37.5, I2 = 99.6, P < 0.01). The highest significant prevalences were associated with: males (28.0%), topical corticosteroid use (51.8%), Africa (27.1%), persons aged ≤30 years (55.9%), individuals with only primary school education (31.6%), urban or semiurban residents (74.9%), patients (21.3%), data from 2010–2017 (26.8%), dermatological evaluation and testing‐based assessment (24.9%), random sampling methods (29.2%), and moderate quality studies (32.3%). The proportion of females in study samples was significantly related to skin bleaching prevalence.

Conclusion

Despite some limitations, our results indicate that the practice of skin bleaching is a serious global public health issue that should be addressed through appropriate public health interventions.
What influences the size of child maintenance payments? A register‐based study of maintenance payments in Finland
Authors: Rissanen Antti , Aaltonen Mikko
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to explore how particular economic and demographic factors contribute to the level of the child maintenance payment (CMP) paid by the non‐resident parent. For this study, we used 5‐year longitudinal panel data from years 2009 to 2013 consisting of over 80,000 non‐resident parents from the Finnish Tax Administration and The Finnish Population Register Centre. Results from regression models indicate that the single biggest factor affecting the size of CMPs is the number of dependent children. We found that the non‐resident parent's higher income is associated with higher CMPs and that non‐resident fathers pay on average larger CMPs than non‐resident mothers, even after accounting for differences in income. Unexpectedly, we found that the age of the dependent child did not predict changes in CMPs. This suggests that once formal CMP‐contracts are determined between the parents, they are seldom changed. Our results suggest that some degree of mandatory periodic review for maintenance contracts is worth considering.
20‐Hydroxyecdysone‐upregulated proteases involved in Bombyx larval fat body destruction
Authors: Guo S.‐Y. , Wu W.‐M. , Li S.‐Y. , Liu Y. , Ruan Z. F. , Ye M.‐Q. , Xiao Y. , Zhong Y.‐J. , Cao Y. , Li K. , Tian L.
Published: June 2018

During insect larval–pupal metamorphosis, the obsolete larval organs and tissues undergo histolysis and programmed cell death to recycle cellular materials. It has been demonstrated that some cathepsins are essential for histolysis in larval tissues, but the process of tissue destruction is not well documented. Fat body, the homologous organ to mammalian liver and adipose tissue, goes through a distinct destruction process during larval–pupal transition. Herein, we found that most of the Bombyx proteases – including Bombyx cathepsin B (BmCatB) (BmCatLL-2), Bombyx cathepsin D (BmCatD), Bombyx cathepsin L like‐1 (BmCatLL-1) and –2(BmCatLL-2), Bombyx fibroinase (BmBcp), Bombyx matrix metalloprotease (BmMmp), Bombyx A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 (BmAdamTS‐1), Bombyx A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs like (BmAdamTS L) and Bombyx cysteine protease inhibitor (Bmbcpi)– were expressed highly in fat body during feeding and metamorphosis, with a peak occurring during the nonfeeding moulting or prepupal stage, as well as being responsive to 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E). The aforementioned protease genes expression was upregulated by injection of 20E into the feeding larvae, while blocking 20E signalling transduction led to downregulation. Western blotting and immunofluorescent staining of BmCatB and BmBcp confirmed the coincident variation of their messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein level during the development and after the treatments. Moreover, BmCatB, BmBcp, BmMmp and BmAdamTS‐1 RNA interference all led to blockage of larval fat body destruction. Taken together, we conclude that 20E regulates larval fat body destruction by upregulating related protease gene expression and protein levels during larval–pupal transition.
Targeting tryptophan availability to tumors: the answer to immune escape?
Authors: Badawy Abdulla A‐B
Published: June 2018

Tumoral immune escape is an obstacle to successful cancer therapy. Tryptophan (Trp) metabolites along the kynurenine pathway induce immunosuppression involving apoptosis of effector immune cells, which tumors use to escape an immune response. Production of these metabolites is initiated by indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO1). IDO1 inhibitors, however, do not always overcome the immune escape and another enzyme expressed in tumors, Trp 2,3‐dioxygenase (TDO2), has been suggested as the reason. However, without Trp, tumors cannot achieve an immune escape through either enzyme. Trp is therefore key to immune escape. In this perspective paper, Trp availability to tumors will be considered and strategies limiting it proposed. One major determinant of Trp availability is the large increase in plasma free (non‐albumin‐bound) Trp in cancer patients, caused by the low albumin and the high non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations in plasma. Albumin infusions, antilipolytic therapy or both could be used, if indicated, as adjuncts to immunotherapy and other therapies. Inhibition of amino acid uptake by tumors is another strategy and α‐methyl‐DL‐tryptophan or other potential inhibitors could fulfill this role. Glucocorticoid receptor antagonists may have a role in preventing glucocorticoid induction of TDO in host liver and tumors expressing it and in undermining the permissive effect of glucocorticoids on IDO1 induction by cytokines. Nicotinamide may be a promising TDO2 inhibitor lacking disadvantages of current inhibitors. Establishing the Trp disposition status of cancer patients and in various tumor types may provide the information necessary to formulate tailored therapeutic approaches to cancer immunotherapy that can also undermine tumoral immune escape.
Stock Liquidity and Firm Value: Evidence from a Policy Experiment in India
Authors: Jawed Mohammad Shameem , Kotha Kiran Kumar
Published: June 2018

The Indian securities market regulator intervened in June 2010 with a regulatory amendment in the listing requirement that mandated all the listed firms other than PSUs (government‐owned companies) to have a minimum public shareholding of 25%. The affected firms were given a 3‐year window to comply with the regulation. This study examines the impact of the new regulation on the affected firms’ value. We explore the relationship between improvement in firms’ value and stock liquidity. This regulatory intervention offers a natural experiment to examine direct causality between stock liquidity and firms’ value. The findings of the empirical analysis confirm the existence of a direct causal relationship between stock liquidity and firm value, stemming from an improved operating performance.
Full‐visible spectrum emitting Zn–In–S:Cu/ZnS nanocrystals based on varying Cu concentrations and its application in white LEDs
Authors: Cao Mengmeng , Yu Caiyan , Xia Jinfeng , Jiang Danyu , Wang Shiwei , Li Huili
Published: June 2018

A series of high‐quality Cu‐doped Zn–In–S nanocrystals (d‐NCs) were prepared by a conventional hot injection process. The full‐visible spectrum emission from 480 to 648 nm can be easily achieved by adjusting the Cu doping concentration in the Zn–In–S system, but not by varying the ratio of In/Zn in the alloyed host material. After wrapping the ZnS shell around the Zn–In–S:Cu d‐NCs core, the resultant Zn–In–S:Cu/ZnS core/shell d‐NCs not only exhibited an enhanced prominent photoluminescent quantum yield (PLQY) up to 65% but also possessed the excellent thermal, photochemical stability, and longer PL lifetime. Furthermore, high color rendition white light was generated from a single color converter Zn–In–S:Cu/ZnS core/shell NCs‐assisted white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Under operation of 38 mA forward bias current, the fabricated white LEDs emitted bright natural white light with a luminous efficiency of 62 lm/W, and the correlated color temperature of 5658 K. Simultaneously, the good color stability was accompanied by the CIE color coordinates of (0.3287, 0.3527) under different forward bias currents.
Prediction of continuous porosity gradients in ceramics using ZnO as a model material
Authors: Cramer Corson L. , Aguirre Trevor G. , Holland Troy B. , Ma Kaka
Published: June 2018

Materials with gradient microstructures have a wide range of applications such as cutting tools, armor, and electronic devices. However, it is difficult to predict and control the gradient microstructure during processing. In the present work, a continuous porosity gradient was successfully achieved in ZnO material via spark plasma sintering with a large induced thermal gradient. The porosity is overestimated if isothermal prediction is applied. The current work proposed a more accurate prediction of the porosity by considering the stress‐shielding effect caused by the thermal gradient. The shielding effect results from different stress states in the sample due to differential sintering: the hotter side of the specimen experiences a higher strain rate and more shrinkage while the colder side experiences a lower strain rate and less shrinkage simultaneously. Therefore, the axial strains are varied throughout the sample thickness. Using the constituent equations in advanced sintering analysis, the shield stress was calculated to be approximately 13 MPa for the viscoelastic assumption of sintering. To improve the accuracy of predicting porosity gradient, it is necessary to add a load to overcome the shield stress when the materials are sintered with a thermal gradient.
Using machine learning to evaluate treatment effects in multiple‐group interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Linden Ariel , Yarnold Paul R.
Published: June 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) is a popular evaluation methodology in which a single treatment unit's outcome is studied over time, and the intervention is expected to “interrupt” the level and/or trend of the outcome, subsequent to its introduction. The internal validity of this analysis is strengthened considerably if the treated unit is contrasted with a comparable control group. In this paper, we introduce a novel machine learning approach using optimal discriminant analysis (ODA) to evaluate treatment effects in multiple‐group ITSA.

Method

We evaluate the effect of California's Proposition 99 (passed in 1988) for reducing cigarette sales, by comparing California (CA) to Montana (MT)—the best matching control state not exposed to any smoking reduction initiatives. We contrast results from ODA to those of ITSA regression (ITSAREG)—a commonly used approach for evaluating treatment effects in ITSA studies.

Results

Both approaches found CA and MT to be comparable on their preintervention time series, and both approaches equally found CA to have statistically lower cigarette sales in the post‐intervention period (P < 0.0001). The ODA model achieved very high effect strength of sensitivity (a measure of classification accuracy) of 91.67%, which remained high (75.00%) after conducting leave‐one‐out analysis to assess generalizability.

Conclusions

The ODA framework achieved results comparable to ITSAREG, bolstering confidence in the intervention effect. In addition, ODA confers several advantages over conventional approaches that may make it a better approach to use in multiple group ITSA studies: insensitivity to skewed data, model‐free permutation tests to derive P values, identification of the threshold value which best discriminates intervention and control groups, a chance‐ and maximum‐corrected index of classification accuracy, and cross‐validation to assess generalizability.
Perinatal outcome of vaginal delivery with epidural analgesia initiated at the early or late phase of labor period: A retrospective cohort study in the Japanese population
Authors: Shiro Michihisa , Nakahata Katsutoshi , Minami Sawako , Kawamata Tomoyuki , Ino Kazuhiko
Published: June 2018

Aim

We compared the perinatal outcomes of vaginal delivery with epidural analgesia initiated at the early versus late phase in a Japanese population.

Methods

Women enrolled in this retrospective cohort study received intrapartum analgesia via combined spinal epidural analgesia after labor onset between May 2010 and August 2015. We compared the perinatal outcomes between two different timings of epidural analgesia: at the early phase (≤3 cm cervical dilatation) and the late phase (≥4 cm) or at the new definition‐based early phase (≤5 cm) and late phase (≥6 cm).

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight singleton pregnant women were eligible. In nulliparous women, there was no marked difference in perinatal outcomes between the early and late phase except for in the first‐stage labor period (13.7 h vs 10.1 h, P = 0.016). In multiparous women, there was no marked difference in perinatal outcomes between the early and late phase except for a higher proportion of Apgar score ≤7 at 1 min in the early phase (20.0% vs 0.0%, P = 0.033). In nulliparous women, the first‐stage labor period in the new early phase was significantly longer than in the new late phase (13.3 h vs 6.9 h, P = 0.035). Other variables for nulliparous women and all for multiparous women were not different between the new early and late phases.

Conclusion

Most perinatal outcomes between the early and late phases of initiated epidural analgesia were not markedly different in our Japanese population, even when using a new definition of labor phase.
The Effect of a Continuous Mechanical Polishing Protocol on Surface Roughness, Biofilm Adhesion, and Color Stability of Acrylic Resin Artificial Teeth
Authors: Barreto Joel de Oliveira , de Alencar‐Silva Flávia Jucá , Oliveira Viviane Cássia , Silva‐Lovato Cláudia Helena , Silva Paulo Goberlânio , Regis Rômulo Rocha
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Acrylic resin properties are susceptible to change over the duration of use, thereby decreasing prosthesis longevity. To make the material less susceptible to the action of external agents such as stain‐causing liquids and cleaning solutions, polishing procedures are recommended. A specific mechanical polishing procedure performed regularly was evaluated regarding the biofilm adhesion, surface roughness (Ra), color stability (ΔE), and mass changes in acrylic resin artificial teeth.

Materials and Methods

Sixty artificial teeth divided into two groups (n = 30) were immersed in distilled water (WT) and coffee (CF). These groups were then subdivided (n = 10) according to the type of polishing procedure administered: no polishing, biweekly polishing (once every 2 weeks) (pol 1), or monthly polishing (once a month) (pol 2), using aluminum oxide paste and a felt polishing wheel attached to an electric motor at a speed of 3000 rpm. Properties were evaluated at baseline and after 4, 8, 12, and 24 months of simulated immersion. At the end, the adhesion of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans multispecies biofilm in all groups was assessed.

Results

The CF group showed an increased Ra and weight, and a significantly greater ΔE compared to the WT group. The polishing procedure reduced Ra and minimized the stains caused by coffee, without losing mass, with the biweekly regime more effective than the monthly regime. Also, polishing reduced the adhesion of biofilm in the CF groups, again with the biweekly regime the most effective.

Conclusions

When performed regularly, the mechanical polishing procedure tested reduces the changes in artificial teeth subjected to immersion in coffee, with the biweekly frequency most effective regarding the properties evaluated.
Infantile‐onset Pompe disease: A case series highlighting early clinical features, spectrum of disease severity and treatment response
Authors: Owens Penny , Wong Melanie , Bhattacharya Kaustuv , Ellaway Carolyn
Published: June 2018

Aim

Pompe disease is a rare, autosomal, recessive disorder. Alterations in the gene encoding lysosomal acid alpha‐glucosidase cause impaired glycogen degradation and resultant lysosomal glycogen accumulation. Classic infantile‐onset Pompe disease (IPD) manifests soon after birth, severe cases have complete/near complete enzyme deficiency. IPD is associated with a broad spectrum of non‐specific clinical features, and diagnostic delays are common. Without treatment, death typically occurs within the first 2 years of life. We present case experiences to help expand paediatricians’ understanding of factors contributing to diagnostic delay, clinical decline and to highlight the need for timely therapy.

Methods

Data were extracted from IPD cases managed at our hospital. Key aspects of clinical presentation, diagnosis, genetic variations, management and overall outcomes were collated then compared with what is already known in the literature.

Results

We report four IPD cases (three female). Two patients were cross‐reactive immunological material negative. Age at symptom onset was 3–9 months, presenting clinical features were varied, and confirmatory diagnosis was significantly delayed in one patient. In concert with the literature, cardiomegaly, ventricular hypertrophy and delayed developmental milestones were seen in all four cases. Our cases demonstrate a range of disease severity, response to enzyme replacement therapy and antibody development. Significant immune responses were seen in two cases (one cross‐reactive immunological material positive); despite immunomodulation therapy, both were associated with fatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Timely diagnosis and initiation of enzyme replacement therapy is critical to patient outcomes as IPD progresses rapidly and irreversible changes in clinical status may occur during the delay.
Melatonin and its metabolites vs oxidative stress: From individual actions to collective protection
Authors: Galano Annia , Reiter Russel J.
Published: June 2018

Oxidative stress (OS) represents a threat to the chemical integrity of biomolecules including lipids, proteins, and DNA. The associated molecular damage frequently results in serious health issues, which justifies our concern about this phenomenon. In addition to enzymatic defense mechanisms, there are compounds (usually referred to as antioxidants) that offer chemical protection against oxidative events. Among them, melatonin and its metabolites constitute a particularly efficient chemical family. They offer protection against OS as individual chemical entities through a wide variety of mechanisms including electron transfer, hydrogen transfer, radical adduct formation, and metal chelation, and by repairing biological targets. In fact, many of them including melatonin can be classified as multipurpose antioxidants. However, what seems to be unique to the melatonin's family is their collective effects. Because the members of this family are metabolically related, most of them are expected to be present in living organisms wherever melatonin is produced. Therefore, the protection exerted by melatonin against OS may be viewed as a result of the combined antioxidant effects of the parent molecule and its metabolites. Melatonin's family is rather exceptional in this regard, offering versatile and collective antioxidant protection against OS. It certainly seems that melatonin is one of the best nature's defenses against oxidative damage.
Different fermentation strategies by Schizochytrium mangrovei strain pq6 to produce feedstock for exploitation of squalene and omega‐3 fatty acids
Authors: Hoang Lan Anh Thi , Nguyen Ha Cam , Le Thom Thi , Hoang Thi Huong Quynh , Pham Van Nhat , Hoang Minh Hien Thi , Ngo Hoai Thu Thi , Hong Dang Diem
Published: June 2018

Schizochytrium mangrovei strain PQ6 was investigated for coproduction of docosahexaenoic acid (C22: 6ω‐3, DHA) and squalene using a 30‐L bioreactor with a working volume of 15 L under various batch and fed‐batch fermentation process regimes. The fed‐batch process was a more efficient cultivation strategy for achieving higher biomass production rich in DHA and squalene. The final biomass, total lipid, unsaponifiable lipid content, and DHA productivity were 105.25 g · L−1, 43.40% of dry cell weight, 8.58% total lipid, and 61.66 mg · g−1 · L−1, respectively, after a 96 h fed‐batch fermentation. The squalene content was highest at 48 h after feeding glucose (98.07 mg · g−1 of lipid). Differences in lipid accumulation during fermentation were correlated with changes in ultrastructure using transmission electron microscopy and Nile Red staining of cells. The results may be of relevance to industrial‐scale coproduction of DHA and squalene in heterotrophic marine microalgae such as Schizochytrium.