bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome of fixed volume intracameral sodium hyaluronate 1.4% injection for early postoperative hypotony after Baerveldt glaucoma implant
Authors: Chiam Patrick J , Chen Xiaoli , Haque M Sayeed , Sung Velota CT
Published: June 2018

Importance

Using an ophthalmic viscoelastic device to manage early postoperative hypotony after Baerveldt glaucoma implant (BGI).

Background

To determine the outcome of intracameral sodium hyaluronate injection for early postoperative hypotony treatment after BGI.

Design

A retrospective study.

Participants

One‐hundred‐and‐thirty‐eight patients (176 eyes) had BGI from January 2012 to November 2015. Those who had hypotony within 3 months postoperatively were studied.

Methods

Hypotonous eyes were injected with 0.1 mL sodium hyaluronate 1.4% intracameral on the slit‐lamp. The patients were followed up weekly and the injection repeated up to 3 times if hypotony persisted. The tube was tied surgically as a last resort.

Main Outcome Measures

The intraocular pressure and best‐corrected visual acuity at week 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and month 4 were assessed.

Results

Thirty (17.0%) out of 176 eyes developed early postoperative hypotony. The median intraocular pressure and median best‐corrected visual acuity when hypotony first presented were 3 mmHg and 0.8 logMAR. Two eyes were excluded as they had more than 0.1 mL injection. Eight (29%) of the 28 hypotonous eyes resolved after one injection, seven (25%) required two and 10 (36%) needed three injections. Three (11%) eyes had surgical tube tie. The median intraocular pressures were 5, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 13 mmHg at week 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and month 4 post‐injection. The median best‐corrected visual acuity were 0.60, 0.50, 0.50, 0.45, 0.40 and 0.40 logMAR for the same period.

Conclusions and Relevance

Standardised intracameral 0.1 mL sodium hyaluronate 1.4% is an effective and safe way to manage early postoperative hypotony after BGI.
Identification and association of recurrent ALOXE3 mutation with non‐bullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma in two ethnically distinct Pakistani families
Authors: Rahman Simeen Ber , Mir Asif , Ahmad Nafees , Haider Syed Husnain , Malik Salman Akbar , Nasir Muhammad
Published: June 2018

Non‐bullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma (NCIE) is characterized by skin scaling with erythema. In this study, two Pakistani families with NCIE are genetically characterized through Whole Exome and Sanger sequencing to identify molecular basis of the disease. We identified a nonsense homozygous c.2026C>T mutation of ALOXE3, causing premature termination of the eLOX3 protein (p.Q676X). In silico studies predicted impaired enzymatic activity of the premature truncated eLOX3, leading to abnormal synthesis of specific hepoxilin derivatives, essential for epidermal barrier formation. It is the first ever study reporting homozygotes of p.Q676X mutation in ethnically distinct two Pakistani families; otherwise, heterozygotes of the said mutation have been reported in South Asian population only. Hence, mutation seems to be region‐specific and may be useful for molecular diagnosis of NCIE. Moreover, our findings should help in genetic counseling and career screening.
Geometric morphometrics, homology and cladistics: review and recommendations
Authors: Palci Alessandro , Lee Michael S. Y.
Published: June 2018

Geometric morphometric (GM) data has a long and contentious history in phylogenetic analyses. Often associated with phenetics, GM has been considered by many to be unable to provide meaningful information on phylogenetic relationships. However, the concepts of primary and secondary homology as developed for discrete characters can be readily extended to GM data: raw similarity in aligned landmark positions represents primary homology, and similarity ascribable to common ancestry represents secondary homology. We review fundamental concepts from the literature and provide a series of practical guidelines for the use of GM data in phylogenetics: (i) alignments that minimize linear distances between landmarks (or their approximation) perform better in highlighting apomorphic traits; (ii) Type I, Type II and linear semi‐landmarks are preferable to Type III and surface semi‐landmarks; (iii) excluding bilateral landmarks after, rather than before, alignment will prevent artefactual mediolateral displacement of midsagittal landmarks; (iv) phylogenetic analyses should employ linear rather than squared‐change parsimony analysis of landmark displacements; (v) optimization of shape changes across a tree can be improved with methods that re‐align the landmark configurations based on the results of the phylogenetic analysis; and (vi) GM data are no substitute for traditional morphological characters, but rather a complementary descriptor of shape diversity.
Lateral alveolar ridge augmentation with autogenous block grafts fixed at a distance versus resorbable Poly‐D‐L‐Lactide foil fixed at a distance: A single‐blind, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Bartols Andreas , Kasprzyk Sebastian , Walther Winfried , Korsch Michael
Published: June 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare bone block grafts fixed at a distance (BBG‐D) with the SonicWeld Rx shell technique (Poly‐D‐L‐Lactide foil fixed at a distance, augmented with autogenous and deproteinized bovine bone particles (SWST)) for lateral alveolar ridge augmentation.

Methods

In this single‐blinded, randomized, controlled trial, 30 patients with a bucco‐palatal bone width of ≤3 mm were randomized into the treatment groups: “BBG‐D” and “SWST”. Bone width was measured with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). One implant was placed at each grafted site. Frequencies of complications, bone gain and bone resorption in the CBCT were assessed as outcomes.

Results

Fifteen sites were augmented in each treatment group. One graft (7%) in the BBG‐D group and five (33%) in the SWST group were lost (p = 0.17). In the SWST group, two implants (20%) were lost and none in the BBG‐D group (p = 0.18). The rate of pooled severe complications (loss of graft and/or implant) was different (p = 0.035). Five (33%) wound dehiscences happened in the SWST group and none in the BBG‐D group (p = 0.042). Seven (47%) nonsevere complications (wound dehiscence, inflammation, transient nerve injury) happened in the SWST group and one (7%) in the BBG‐D group (p = 0.035). At the one‐year evaluation, there were no significant differences in bone loss at the mesial, distal or buccal implant shoulder between treatment groups.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, the BBG‐D method remains the gold standard for lateral alveolar ridge augmentation compared to the shell technique because of the lower complication rates.
Genome sequencing and conservation genomics in the Scandinavian wolverine population
Authors: Ekblom Robert , Brechlin Birte , Persson Jens , Smeds Linnéa , Johansson Malin , Magnusson Jessica , Flagstad Øystein , Ellegren Hans
Published: June 2018

Genetic approaches have proved valuable to the study and conservation of endangered populations, especially for monitoring programs, and there is potential for further developments in this direction by extending analyses to the genomic level. We assembled the genome of the wolverine (Gulo gulo), a mustelid that in Scandinavia has recently recovered from a significant population decline, and obtained a 2.42 Gb draft sequence representing >85% of the genome and including >21,000 protein‐coding genes. We then performed whole‐genome resequencing of 10 Scandinavian wolverines for population genomic and demographic analyses. Genetic diversity was among the lowest detected in a red‐listed population (mean genome‐wide nucleotide diversity of 0.05%). Results of the demographic analyses indicated a long‐term decline of the effective population size (Ne) from 10,000 well before the last glaciation to <500 after this period. Current Ne appeared even lower. The genome‐wide FIS level was 0.089 (possibly signaling inbreeding), but this effect was not observed when analyzing a set of highly variable SNP markers, illustrating that such markers can give a biased picture of the overall character of genetic diversity. We found significant population structure, which has implications for population connectivity and conservation. We used an integrated microfluidic circuit chip technology to develop an SNP‐array consisting of 96 highly informative markers that, together with a multiplex pre‐amplification step, was successfully applied to low‐quality DNA from scat samples. Our findings will inform management, conservation, and genetic monitoring of wolverines and serve as a genomic roadmap that can be applied to other endangered species. The approach used here can be generally utilized in other systems, but we acknowledge the trade‐off between investing in genomic resources and direct conservation actions.
Longitudinal assessment of hepatic fibrosis in responders to direct‐acting antivirals for recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation using noninvasive methods
Authors: Omar Heba , Said Mohamed , Eletreby Rasha , Mehrez Mai , Bassam Mohamed , Abdellatif Zeinab , Hosny Adel , Megawer Sherif , El Amir Mona , Yosry Ayman
Published: June 2018

Successful eradication of recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection following liver transplantation (HCV) improves graft survival. This study aimed at evaluation of hepatic fibrosis changes among long‐term responders to DAA therapy for recurrent HCV after liver transplantation using noninvasive methods. Patients with significant hepatic fibrosis (≥F2) who achieved SVR12 after treatment with DAAs for recurrent HCV were included (n = 52). Hepatic fibrosis status was assessed, noninvasively, by calculation of fibrosis‐4 score (FIB‐4) and Aspartate Aminotransferase Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) and by measurement of graft stiffness using FibroScan at baseline and 12 and 18 months post‐treatment. Acoustic radiation force imaging (ARFI) was done for all patients 12 and 18 months post‐treatment. Patients were classified into two groups based on baseline liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by FibroScan; significant fibrosis (F2; n = 28) and advanced fibrosis groups (≥F3). Over 18‐month follow‐up period, there was serial improvement of FIB‐4, APRI, and LSM by FibroScan in both groups. Higher baseline LSM and delayed initiation of antiviral therapy were significant predictors of lack of fibrosis regression (P‐value 0.01 and 0.04, respectively). Fibroindices and LSM improved over time in liver transplant recipients who responded to DAAs. Baseline LSM can predict post‐treatment fibrosis regression.
A comparison of quality of life and psychological distress in heart transplantation patients at adult and pediatric ages
Authors: Cavalli Chiara , Tarzia Vincenzo , Marini Massimo , Gregori Dario , Casella Silvia , Bottio Tomaso , Toscano Giuseppe , Fraiese Angela Pompea , Gambino Antonio , Volpe Biancarosa , Gerosa Gino
Published: June 2018

Background

The aim of the current study was to evaluate and compare the quality of life (QOL) and psychological status of adult patients who underwent heart transplant (HTx) at pediatric or adult ages.

Methods

The population consisted of two groups: patients who received HTx after 18 years old and pediatrics who received HTx between the age of 1 and 18 years. At the time of the study, all patients were over 18 years old. QOL data were collected from patients using 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐36) and psychological distress by the Symptom checklist 90‐revised questionnaire (SCL‐90‐R).

Results

A total of 232 HTx patients were evaluated; 217 were transplanted at an adult age and 15 at a pediatric one. QOL improved significantly in pediatrics patients in the general health perceptions subscale and physical pain subscale than adult patients. The Global Index of the psychological distress did not differ in the two groups, but the pediatric patients registered statistically significant higher scores on the interpersonal sensitivity symptom subscale (adult group 36 ± 0.42 vs pediatric group 81 ± 0.79), the hostility subscale (adult group m 39 ± 0.44 vs pediatric group 73 ± 0.76) and the paranoid ideation subscale (adult group 46 ± 0.46 vs pediatric group 96 ± 1.02).

Conclusion

The pediatric heart recipients showed better quality of life, but they show marked sensitivity, hostility and paranoid ideation which increases the risk of mental distress and therefore their adherence to medical treatment.
Comparison of pancreatic volume and fat amount linked with glucose homeostasis between healthy Caucasians and Koreans
Authors: Roh Eun , Kim Kyoung M. , Park Kyeong S. , Kim Yoon J. , Chun Eun J. , Choi Sung H. , Park Kyong S. , Jang Hak C. , Lim Soo
Published: June 2018

Aim

To compare pancreatic volume and fat amount, and their associations with glucose homeostasis, in a Korean and a white population.

Materials and methods

In 43 healthy Korean and 43 healthy white people, matched for age (±3 years) and body mass index (BMI; ±1 kg/m2), we measured pancreatic volume and fat amount in the pancreas and abdomen using computed tomography. Pancreatic β‐cell function and insulin resistance were estimated according to biochemical characteristics and a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test. Body composition and resting energy expenditure (REE) were examined using bioimpedance and indirect calorimetry, respectively.

Results

The mean ±SD age of the participants was 29.9 ± 5.9 years and 30.0 ± 5.2 years, and BMI was 24.0 ±3.7 and 24.1 ±3.2 kg/m2 in the white participants and the Korean participants, respectively. Pancreatic volume in the white participants was greater than that in Korean participants (77.8 ±11.6 vs 68.2 ±12.1 cm3; P < .001). Pancreatic fat content in Korean participants was 22.8% higher than in white participants (P = .051). Insulinogenic index, disposition index, muscle mass and REE were significantly lower in Korean participants. Pancreatic volume was positively associated with indices linked to β‐cell function; fat content in the pancreas was negatively associated with such indices, and positively with insulin resistance after adjusting for relevant variables including REE.

Conclusions

A smaller pancreas and higher fat deposition might be crucial determinants of vulnerability to diabetes in Korean people compared with white people with similar BMI and body fat levels.
Acute vs cumulative benefits of metformin use in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure
Authors: Weir Daniala L. , Abrahamowicz Michal , Beauchamp Marie‐Eve , Eurich Dean T.
Published: June 2018

Aims

To evaluate the association between metformin use and heart failure (HF) exacerbation in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and pre‐existing HF using alternative exposure models.

Materials and methods

We analysed data for patients with T2D and incident HF from a national US insurance claims database. We compared the results of several multivariable Cox models where time‐varying use of metformin was modelled as: (1) current use; (2) total duration of past use; and (3) use within the past 30 days or 10 days. The outcome was defined as time to HF‐related hospitalization. We then re‐analysed the data using flexible weighted cumulative exposure (WCE) models.

Results

A total of 7620 patients with diabetes and incident HF were analysed. The mean (SD) patient age was 54 (8) years, and 58% (n = 4440) were men. In all, 3799 individuals (50%) were exposed to metformin, and 837 HF hospitalizations (11%) occurred (mean follow‐up 1.7 years). Results of conventional models suggested potential acute benefits in reducing HF exacerbation with metformin use in the past 10 days (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60‐0.97), while WCE models, which provided a better fit for the data, suggested lack of a systematic effect (aHR 0.91, 95% CI 0.69‐1.20).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that cumulative metformin exposure does not decrease the risk of HF‐related exacerbation. Use of other anti‐hyperglycaemic agents with proven efficacy in patients with HF should also be considered as treatment options in this population.
Effect of different scoring approaches upon credit assignment when using Multiple True‐False items in dental undergraduate examinations
Authors: Kanzow P. , Schuelper N. , Witt D. , Wassmann T. , Sennhenn‐Kirchner S. , Wiegand A. , Raupach T.
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Various scoring approaches for Multiple True‐False (MTF) items exist. This study aimed at comparing scoring results obtained with different scoring approaches and to assess the effect of item cues on each scoring approaches’ result.

Materials and Methods

Different scoring approaches (MTF, Count‐2, Count‐3, “Vorkauf‐Method,” PS50, Dichotomized MTF, “Blasberg‐Method,” Multiple response (MR), Correction for Guessing, “Ripkey‐Method,” Morgan‐Method, Balanced Scoring Method) were retrospectively applied to all MTF items used within electronic examinations of undergraduate dental students at the University Medical Center Göttingen in the winter term 2016/2017 (1297 marking events). Item quality was evaluated regarding formal parameters such as presence of cues and correctness of content. Differences between scoring results of all scoring approaches and the differences between each methods’ scoring results of items with and without cues were calculated by Wilcoxon rank sum tests (P < .05).

Results

Average scoring results per item highly differed between the scoring approaches and ranged from 0.46 (MR) to 0.92 (Dichotomized MTF). Presence of cues leads to significantly higher scoring in case of all scoring approaches (P < .001; +0.14 on average). However, effect of cues differed amongst scoring approaches and ranged from +0.04 (Dichotomized MTF) to +0.20 (MR).

Conclusion

Scoring of MTF items is complex. The data presented in this manuscript may help educators make informed choices about scoring algorithms.
The burden of disease in pyruvate kinase deficiency: Patients’ perception of the impact on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Grace Rachael F. , Cohen Jennifer , Egan Shayna , Wells Ted , Witherspoon Brooke , Ryan Aisling , Salek Sam S. , Bodie Susan , Klaassen Robert J.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

This study explored how signs and symptoms of pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency, a rare hemolytic anemia caused by mutations in the PKLR gene, impacts patients’ health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Interviews with 21 adults with PK deficiency in the United States, Netherlands, and Germany were conducted. Participants were asked to describe signs, symptoms, and impacts of the disease on their daily lives. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative analysis methods.

Results

The most common signs and symptoms reported were yellow eyes (n = 19), tiredness (n = 18), yellow skin (n = 17), fatigue (n = 15), low energy (n = 13), and shortness of breath (n = 13). Furthermore, signs and symptoms of PK deficiency negatively impact the ability to perform physical activities, appearance, social activities, emotional states, activities of daily living, leisure activities, work and/or school, sleep, and cognitive states of those living with PK deficiency. A conceptual model is presented that further demonstrates the profound impact that signs and symptoms of PK deficiency have on dimensions of patients’ HRQoL.

Conclusions

This is the first study that provides patient perspective on the burden of living with PK deficiency and lays the foundation for future studies to examine the effect of pharmacologic interventions on overall HRQoL for patients living with PK deficiency.
Singing activity‐driven Arc expression associated with vocal acoustic plasticity in juvenile songbird
Authors: Hayase Shin , Wada Kazuhiro
Published: June 2018

Learned vocalization, including birdsong and human speech, is acquired through self‐motivated vocal practice during the sensitive period of vocal learning. The zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) develops a song characterized by vocal variability and crystallizes a defined song pattern as adulthood. However, it remains unknown how vocal variability is regulated with diurnal singing during the sensorimotor learning period. Here, we investigated the expression of activity‐dependent neuroplasticity‐related gene Arc during the early plastic song phase to examine its potential association with vocal plasticity. We first confirmed that multiple acoustic features of syllables in the plastic song were dramatically and simultaneously modulated during the first 3 hr of singing in a day and the altered features were maintained until sleep. In a concurrent manner, Arc was intensely induced during morning singing and a subsequent attenuation during afternoon singing in the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA) and the interfacial nucleus of the nidopallium (NIf). The singing‐driven Arc expression was not altered by circadian rhythm, but rather reduced during the day as juveniles produced more songs. Song stabilization accelerated by testosterone administration in juveniles was accompanied with attenuation of Arc induction in RA and NIf. In contrast, although early‐deafened birds produced highly unstable song even at adulthood, singing‐driven Arc expression was not different between intact and early‐deafened adults. These results suggest a potential functional link between Arc expression in RA and NIf and vocal plasticity during the sensorimotor phase of song learning. Nonetheless, Arc expression did not reflect the quality of bird's own song or auditory feedback.
Spread of dystonia in patients with idiopathic adult‐onset laryngeal dystonia
Authors: Esposito M. , Fabbrini G. , Ferrazzano G. , Berardelli A. , Peluso S. , Cesari U. , Gigante A. F. , Bentivoglio A. R. , Petracca M. , Erro R. , Barone P. , Schirinzi T. , Eleopra R. , Avanzino L. , Romano M. , Scaglione C. L. , Cossu G. , Morgante F. , Minafra B. , Zibetti M. , Coletti Moja M. , Turla M. , Fadda L. , Defazio G.
Published: June 2018

Background and purpose

Adult‐onset laryngeal dystonia (LD) can be isolated or can be associated with dystonia in other body parts. Combined forms can be segmental at the onset or can result from dystonia spread to or from the larynx. The aim of this study was to identify the main clinical and demographic features of adult‐onset idiopathic LD in an Italian population with special focus on dystonia spread.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Italian Dystonia Registry (IDR) produced by 37 Italian institutions. Clinical and demographic data of 71 patients with idiopathic adult‐onset LD were extracted from a pool of 1131 subjects included in the IDR.

Results

Fifty of 71 patients presented a laryngeal focal onset; the remaining subjects had onset in other body regions and later laryngeal spread. The two groups did not show significant differences of demographic features. 32% of patients with laryngeal onset reported spread to contiguous body regions afterwards and in most cases (12 of 16 subjects) dystonia started to spread within 1 year from the onset. LD patients who remained focal and those who had dystonia spread did not show other differences.

Conclusions

Data from IDR show that dystonic patients with focal laryngeal onset will present spread in almost one‐third of cases. Spread from the larynx occurs early and is directed to contiguous body regions showing similarities with clinical progression of blepharospasm. This study gives a new accurate description of LD phenomenology that may contribute to improving the comprehension of dystonia pathophysiology.
Clinical perspectives into the use of thalidomide for central nervous system tuberculosis
Authors: Keddie S. , Bharambe V. , Jayakumar A. , Shah A. , Sanchez V. , Adams A. , Gnanapavan S.
Published: June 2018

Background and purpose

Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis (TB) accounts for over 4% of all TB notifications in the UK and causes death or significant disability in over half of those affected. Tumour necrosis factor alpha is a critical cytokine involved in the neuropathogenesis of CNS TB. Thalidomide has been trialled in CNS TB due to its immunomodulatory and immune reconstitution effects through the inhibition of tumour necrosis factor alpha. Despite animal models demonstrating dramatic improvement in survival, studies in paediatric patients have been associated with higher levels of mortality. The effects of thalidomide have not yet been studied in adults with CNS TB.

This narrative case series guides clinicians through a range of CNS TB clinical cases seen in a large London teaching hospital, serving a region with a high incidence of TB (32 per 100 000) with 55% of TB cases manifesting as extrapulmonary disease. We aimed to illustrate our experiences of using thalidomide to treat a range of severe CNS TB complications.

Methods

Five inpatients at The Royal London Hospital, London, UK treated with thalidomide in addition to standard TB treatment are described in detail. The rationale for treatment initiation with thalidomide is explained.

Results

The case examples are used to guide our reflections and lessons learnt regarding the use of thalidomide. Responses to treatment and functional outcomes suggest that thalidomide may be a useful adjunct to standard TB therapy in selected adult cases.

Conclusions

The experience gained from using thalidomide in this small case series may provide evidence leading to more research into using thalidomide to treat severe CNS TB.
Cerebral autoregulatory performance and the cerebrovascular response to head‐of‐bed positioning in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Truijen J. , Rasmussen L. S. , Kim Y. S. , Stam J. , Stok W. J. , Pott F. C. , van Lieshout J. J.
Published: June 2018

Background and purpose

Cerebrovascular responses to head‐of‐bed positioning in patients with acute ischaemic stroke are heterogeneous, questioning the applicability of general recommendations on head positioning. Cerebral autoregulation is impaired to various extents after acute stroke, although it is unknown whether this affects cerebral perfusion during posture change. We aimed to elucidate whether the cerebrovascular response to head position manipulation depends on autoregulatory performance in patients with ischaemic stroke.

Methods

The responses of bilateral transcranial Doppler ultrasound‐determined cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and local cerebral blood volume (CBV), assessed by near‐infrared spectroscopy of total hemoglobin tissue concentration ([total Hb]), to head‐of‐bed lowering from 30° to 0° were determined in 39 patients with acute ischaemic stroke and 17 reference subjects from two centers. Cerebrovascular autoregulatory performance was expressed as the phase difference of the arterial pressure‐to‐CBFV transfer function.

Results

Following head‐of‐bed lowering, CBV increased in the reference subjects only ([total Hb]: + 2.1 ± 2.0 vs. + 0.4 ± 2.6 μM; P < 0.05), whereas CBFV did not change in either group. CBV increased upon head‐of‐bed lowering in the hemispheres of patients with autoregulatory performance <50th percentile compared with a decrease in the hemispheres of patients with better autoregulatory performance ([total Hb]: +1.0 ± 1.3 vs. −0.5 ± 1.0 μM; P < 0.05). The CBV response was inversely related to autoregulatory performance (r = −0.68; P < 0.001) in the patients, whereas no such relation was observed for CBFV.

Conclusion

This study is the first to provide evidence that cerebral autoregulatory performance in patients with acute ischaemic stroke affects the cerebrovascular response to changes in the position of the head.
Exploratory factor analysis of signalment and conformational measurements in Thoroughbred horses with and without recurrent laryngeal neuropathy
Authors: McGivney C. L. , Gough K. F. , McGivney B. A. , Farries G. , Hill E. W. , Katz L. M.
Published: June 2018

Background

Conflicting results have been reported for risk factors for recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) based on resting endoscopic evaluation and comparison of single conformation traits, with many traits correlated to one another.

Objectives

To simplify identification of signalment and conformation traits (i.e. variables) associated with RLN cases and controls diagnosed with exercising overground endoscopy (OGE) using exploratory factor analysis (EFA).

Study design

Prospective cohort.

Methods

Pearson's rank correlation was used to establish significance and association between variables collected from n = 188 Thoroughbreds from one stable by observers blinded to OGE results. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on nine variables for cases and controls; common elements between variables developed a factor, with variables grouped into three factors for cases and controls respectively. Correlation (loading) between each variable and factor was calculated to rank relationships between variables and cases/controls, with factors retrospectively named based on their underlying correlations with variables.

Results

Numerous inter‐correlations were present between variables. Most strongly correlated in cases were wither height with body weight (r = 0.70) and ventral neck length (r = 0.68) and in controls body weight with rostral neck circumference (r = 0.58). Wither height (r = 0.61) significantly loaded the top‐ranked factor for cases (‘heightRLN’), explaining 25% of conformational variance. Ventral neck length (r = 0.69) and age (r = 0.57) significantly loaded the second‐ranked factor for cases (‘neck lengthRLN’), explaining 16% of conformational variance. Rostral neck circumference (r = 0.86) and body weight (r = 0.6) significantly loaded the top‐ranked factor for controls (‘body sizeCON’), explaining 19% of the variance. Wither height (r = 0.84) significantly loaded the second‐ranked factor for controls (‘heightCON’), explaining 13% of the variance.

Main limitations

Horses had not reached skeletal maturity.

Conclusions

Exploratory factor analysis allowed weightings to be determined for each variable. Wither height was the predominant conformational feature associated with RLN. Exploratory factor analysis confirms aggregated conformational differences exist between RLN cases and controls, suitable for future evaluations.
Cervical dysplasia in a patient with multiple sclerosis treated with natalizumab
Authors: Durrieu Geneviève , Dardonville Quentin , Clanet Michel , Montastruc Jean‐Louis
Published: June 2018

We describe one report of a cervical dysplasia in a patient receiving natalizumab for multiple sclerosis. Other cases were identified in the WHO's global individual case safety report database, VigiBase®. These data underline the importance of monitoring HPV infection in patients with MS treated with natalizumab.
Ubiquitin ligase TRAF2 attenuates the transcriptional activity of the core clock protein BMAL1 and affects the maximal Per1 mRNA level of the circadian clock in cells
Authors: Chen Suping , Yang Jing , Yang Lu , Zhang Yang , Zhou Liang , Liu Qing , Duan Chunyan , Mieres Crystal A. , Zhou Guanghai , Xu Guoqiang
Published: June 2018

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS) modulates the ubiquitination and degradation of many proteins and thus alters their abundance and biological functions. The core clock protein, aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator‐like protein 1 (ARNTL or BMAL1), is the master regulator of the circadian clock and plays important roles in the regulation of many biological processes, such as protein synthesis, cell senescence, and circadian rhythms. However, the influence of the UPS on BMAL1 is not fully understood. Here, we find an E3 ubiquitin ligase, TNF receptor‐associated factor 2 (TRAF2), as an interacting protein of BMAL1 to reduce its stability. Biochemical experiments demonstrate that this regulation is achieved through the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of BMAL1. We further reveal that BMAL1 preferentially interacts with the zinc finger domain but not the conventional substrate recognition domain in TRAF2. Functional studies find that TRAF2 expression reduces the BMAL1 transcriptional activity and Traf2 knockdown elevates the maximal Per1 mRNA level of the circadian clock in a neuroblastoma cell line. This work discovers TRAF2 as a novel regulatory factor for BMAL1 and reveals a new domain in TRAF2 for substrate binding, which may extend the regulatory functions of TRAF2 and BMAL1 in many biological processes, such as circadian rhythm.
Targeting transglutaminase 2 partially restores extracellular matrix structure but not alveolar architecture in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Mižíková Ivana , Pfeffer Tilman , Nardiello Claudio , Surate Solaligue David E. , Steenbock Heiko , Tatsukawa Hideki , Silva Diogo M. , Vadász István , Herold Susanne , Pease Richard J. , Iismaa Siiri E. , Hitomi Kiyotaka , Seeger Werner , Brinckmann Jürgen , Morty Rory E.
Published: June 2018

The generation, maturation and remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) are essential for the formation of alveoli during lung development. Alveoli formation is disturbed in preterm infants that develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), where collagen fibres are malformed, and perturbations to lung ECM structures may underlie BPD pathogenesis. Malformed ECM structures might result from abnormal protein cross‐linking, in part attributable to the increased expression and activity of transglutaminase 2 (TGM2) that have been noted in affected patient lungs, as well as in hyperoxia‐based BPD animal models. The objective of the present study was to assess whether TGM2 plays a causal role in normal and aberrant lung alveolarization. Targeted deletion of Tgm2 in C57BL/6J mice increased septal thickness and reduced gas‐exchange surface area in otherwise normally developing lungs. During aberrant lung alveolarization that occurred under hyperoxic conditions, collagen structures in Tgm2−/− mice were partially protected from the impact of hyperoxia, where normal dihydroxylysinonorleucine and hydroxylysylpiridinoline collagen cross‐link abundance was restored; however, the lung alveolar architecture remained abnormal. Inhibition of transglutaminases (including TGM2) with cysteamine appreciably reduced transglutaminase activity in vivo, as assessed by Nε‐(γ‐l‐glutamyl)‐l‐lysine abundance and TGM catalytic activity, and restored normal dihydroxylysinonorleucine and hydroxylysylpiridinoline collagen cross‐link abundance under pathological conditions. Furthermore, a moderate improvement in alveoli size and gas‐exchange surface density was noted in cysteamine‐treated mouse lungs in which BPD was modelled. These data indicate that TGM2 plays a role in normal lung alveolarization, and contributes to the formation of aberrant ECM structures during disordered lung alveolarization.
Hydrogeochemical Evolution of Interaction Between Surface Water and Groundwater Affected by Exploitation
Authors: Guo Xueru , Zuo Rui , Wang Jinsheng , Meng Li , Teng Yanguo , Shi Rongtao , Gao Xiang , Ding Fei
Published: June 2018

Hydrogeochemical evolution of interactions between surface water and groundwater is crucial for guaranteeing water supply quality in a riverside water source area. This study focuses on the seasonal and spatial characteristics of hydrogeochemical evolution affected by groundwater exploitation in the Hulan water source area using hydrochemical analyses and stable isotope tracers. Results show that the concentrations of major ions and total dissolved solids (TDS) increase considerably during the dry season. A bicarbonate water type is primarily produced by the dissolution of calcite, dolomite and gypsum, as well as the cation exchange and human activities. Along the typical infiltration path, the proportions of surface water increase with proximity to the river from 8%‐63% during the wet season to 11%‐84% during the dry season, which are attributed to an increased hydraulic gradient by exploitation. The typical path is classified into two zones. The first is the intensive mixing zone (within 1 km) with increasing concentrations of major ions and TDS due to mixing effect. The second is the exploitation influence zone (1‐3.3 km) with increased concentrations of Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42−, and HCO3− during the dry season due to two reasons of seasonal variations in evaporation, stronger water‐rock interactions and mixing effects with increased surface water by exploitation.
Factors improving the utility of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B: A nationwide multicenter study in Japan
Authors: Yamagiwa Yoko , Masaki Naohiko
Published: June 2018

Aim

The consideration of patients' needs in terms of research outcomes is emphasized in research promotion to eradicate hepatitis B virus according to the Basic Act on Hepatitis Measures in Japan. This study analyzed patients' attitudes toward experienced antiviral therapies for chronic hepatitis B and their need for future therapies.

Methods

A self‐administered questionnaire comprising 124 questions was completed among patients with chronic hepatitis B from 61 core‐center hospitals designated to implement and research policies on hepatitis in 47 prefectures from August 2013 to January 2014 (n = 3021, response rate = 51%).

Results

In decision‐tree models with 333 variables generated from the questionnaire data, patients’ satisfaction with therapy and reduction in anxiety about therapy were dependent on favorable therapeutic effects, sufficient information provided by the physician, and fewer lifestyle disturbances. Medical expenses were not selected at a superior branch because subsidy for antiviral therapy started in 2010. In correspondence analysis of free text answers, patients’ need for therapy and support mechanisms differed among their attributes, including a great need for novel therapy in older men, hope for avoidance of lifestyle disturbance in younger men, and alleviation of painful experience with the disease in women.

Conclusions

Continual provision of sufficient information is necessary to improve the utility of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B as well as for favorable therapeutic effects. The patients believed that novel drugs and support would reduce the diverse burden of the disease on their lives.
Long‐term outcomes after cholecystocolostomy for progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis
Authors: Chen Long , Xiao Hui , Ren Xiang‐hai , Li Long
Published: June 2018

Aim

To evaluate the long‐term efficacy of cholecystocolostomy surgery for progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC).

Methods

From August 2003 to November 2014, 34 clinically diagnosed children, including 11 with familial intrahepatic cholestasis‐1 (FIC1), 13 with bile salt export pump (BSEP) disease, five with low γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) disease (levels <100 U/L), and five with multidrug resistance class III (MDR3) disease with high GGT (>100 U/L), were identified in our center. Data were collected retrospectively from individuals who collectively had 36 surgical operations and two orthotopic liver transplantations (OLT).

Results

Serum total bilirubin (0 = 163.54 ± 106.02, 36 months = 23.38 ± 17.66 μmol/L) and bile acid (0 = 325.83 ± 153.09, 36 months = 48.36 ± 79.71 μmol/L) decreased after cholecystocolostomy in PFIC patients (P < 0.001). All patients experienced decreased severity of pruritus (88.2% vs. 16.1%, P < 0.001) and a greater freedom from growth retardation after cholecystocolostomy (−3.35 vs. −1.03, P < 0.001). Defecation frequency increased in PFIC patients after cholecystocolostomy (P = 0.002). Four patients (three with FIC1 and one with BSEP) experienced recurrence of cholestasis and two underwent reoperation. Two BSEP patients underwent OLT. One patient with BSEP and one patient with MDR3 died due to severe diarrhea and dehydration; one BSEP patient died of intractable constipation.

Conclusions

This is the first long‐term, large‐scale analysis of cholecystocolostomy approaches for PFIC. Approaches single and well tolerated, and generally result in improvement of pruritus and cholestasis.
Professional collaboration in searching the evidence for an ill‐defined concept
Authors: McMahon Martin , Hatton Chris , Alberici Simon
Published: June 2018

This paper outlines the inter‐professional collaboration of the authors, a PhD student, his supervisor and an information professional, to systematically search the literature for an ill‐defined concept. The research question posed for the scoping literature review indicated that the topic, the subjective socio‐economic status and health of adults with intellectual disabilities, was rare. The need for a methodological search process was therefore identified and successfully carried out. The paper presents an analysis of the processes and the collaboration involved in developing a successful search strategy. The resulting transformative learning by the researcher of the professional practice of the information specialist illuminates their facilitating and supportive role in advancing health related research.

F.J.
C/C–SiC composite fabricated via PCS–Si slurry reactive melt infiltration
Authors: Guo Wenjian , Bai Shuxin , Ye Yicong , Zhu Lian , Li Shun
Published: June 2018

The slurry reactive melt infiltration (RMI) method was used to overcome the shortcomings of the traditional RMI method utilized in preparing the large‐irregular shaped C/C preform. C/C–SiC composite was successfully fabricated via PCS–Si slurry RMI. Results show that it has a favorable physical bonding between the PCS–Si slurry and the C/C preform. After RMI, most of the Si in the PCS–Si slurry coating infiltrated into the C/C preform, the density of the C/C preform increased from 1.24 to 1.52g cm−3, and the open porosity decreased from 27.22% to 18.04%. SiC was formed on the surface as well as in the pores of the C/C preform. The as‐received C/C–SiC composite showed a pseudo‐ductile fracture behavior with a flexural strength of 76.4MPa. The mass ablation rate of the C/C–SiC composite is 0.34 mg s−1, exhibiting much better ablation resistance than the C/C preform with a mass ablation rate of 1.80 mg s−1.
Effect of whey protein addition on the nutritional, technological and sensory quality of banana cake
Authors: Camargo Liziane R. , Silva Letícia M. , Komeroski Marina R. , Kist Tarso B. L. , Rodrigues Carlos E. , Rios Alessandro de O. , Silva Médelin M. , Doneda Divair , Schmidt Helena de O. , Oliveira Viviani R.
Published: June 2018

Whey proteins are of great nutritional and technological interest and their addition to bakery products can provide an increase in quality parameters such as texture, flavour and colour. In this study, four formulations were elaborated containing 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% of whey proteins. The physicochemical assessment included weight, height, volume, density, colour, hardness and centesimal and amino acid analysis. The sensory analysis included an affective test and buying intention. Height and volume after baking increased according to the amount of whey proteins added, while post‐baking density decreased. Whey protein added to cakes presented a protein increase higher than 50% when compared to the standard one. There was also a progressive increase in amino acids as quantities of whey proteins were added. The sensory showed a difference only in the 30% whey protein added cake, which proved to be less promising when compared to the other samples.
Moral mindfulness: The ethical concerns of healthcare professionals working in a psychiatric intensive care unit
Authors: Salzmann‐Erikson Martin
Published: June 2018

Healthcare professionals working on inpatient wards face the externalizing or challenging behaviour of the patients who are admitted. Ethical values and principles in psychiatric nursing have been reported to be important when approaching patients during the most acute phase of deterioration in their mental health. Hence, the aim of this study was to discover and describe staff members’ ethical and moral concerns about their work as healthcare professionals in a psychiatric intensive care unit. The study has a qualitative descriptive design and makes use of Framework Analysis. Registered nurses and psychiatric aides in a psychiatric intensive care unit in Sweden were observed during ethical reflection meetings. Four to six staff attended the 90‐min meetings. The data comprise observations from six meetings, which provided 94 pages of text. The results demonstrate that the work was described as being both motivating and exhausting. The staff faced ethical concerns in their daily work, as patients often demonstrated challenging behaviours. Three themes were identified as follows: (i) concerns about the staff impacting on patients’ experience of care, (ii) concerns about establishing a safe working environment, and (iii) concerns about becoming unprofessional due to expectations and a high workload. Ethical concerns included simultaneously taking into account both the patients’ dignity and safety aspects, while also being exposed to high workloads. These elements of work are theorized as influencing complex psychiatric nursing. If we are to bring these influential factors to light in the workplace, advanced nursing practice must be grounded in moral mindfulness.
What factors influence the decisions of mental health professionals to release service users from seclusion?
Authors: Jackson Haley , Baker John , Berzins Kathyrn
Published: June 2018

Mental health policy stipulates seclusion should only be used as an intervention of last resort and for the minimum possible duration. Current evidence details which service users are more likely to be secluded, why they are secluded, and what influences the decision to seclude them. However, very little is known about the decision to release service users from seclusion. An integrative review was undertaken to explore the decision‐making processes of mental health professionals which guide the ending of seclusion. The review used a systematic approach to gather and thematically analyse evidence within a framework approach. The twelve articles identified generated one overriding theme, maintaining safety. In addition, several subthemes emerged including the process of risk assessing which was dependent upon interaction and control, mediated by factors external to the service user such as the attitude and experience of staff and the acuity of the environment. Service users were expected to demonstrate compliance with the process ultimately ending in release and reflection. Little evidence exists regarding factors influencing mental health professionals in decisions to release service users from seclusion. There is no evidence‐based risk assessment tool, and service users are not routinely involved in the decision to release them. Support from experienced professionals is vital to ensure timely release from seclusion. Greater insight into influences upon decisions to discontinue episodes may support initiatives aimed at reducing durations and use of seclusion.
The effect of electrochemical cycling on the strength of LiCoO2
Authors: Feng Lin , Lu Xuefeng , Zhao Tingting , Dillon Shen
Published: June 2018

This work utilizes in situ transmission electron microscopy–based nanopillar compression to investigate the effect of electrochemical cycling on the mechanical properties of LiCoO2. The ultimate strength of LiCoO2 in the pristine state, and after 1 and 11 cycles are 5.62 ± 0.22 GPa, 3.91 ± 1.22 GPa, and 2.27 ± 1.07 GPa, respectively. The reduced average yield strengths and the large standard deviations of cycled samples, relative to the pristine powder, are hypothesized to result from nonuniform accumulation of Li+ site‐point defects during cycling; either H+ or Li+ vacancies. Density functional theory calculations support our hypothesized link between a nonuniform Li site‐point defect distribution in the cathode and reduction in the materials cohesive strength.