bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adequacy of scoring systems in diagnosing paediatric autoimmune hepatitis: retrospective study using a control group children with Hepatitis B infection
Authors: Niţă Andreia Florina , Păcurar Daniela
Published: January 2019

Aim

To evaluate how correct is made the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in children, comparing the adults scoring systems – the 1999 revised scoring system by International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group and the 2007 Simplified Scoring System. The inaccuracies in diagnosis have been analysed.

Methods

The two scoring systems have been applied for 28 children with AIH pre‐treatment and 28 with Hepatitis B infection – matched by sex and age, all diagnosed between 2010 and 2017 in an emergency children's hospital in Bucharest, Romania. They were retrospectively followed throughout the period assessed.

Results

Autoimmune hepatitis was present in 85.7% cases according to the 1999 revised score, respectively, 57.0% as per the 2007 simplified score. The 2007 simplified score led to false negative results when AIH was associated with another autoimmune disease (p = 0.009). Patients who did not undergo liver biopsy were associated with a downgraded diagnosis by the 2007 simplified score (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

There is a need for a scoring system tailored to children's characteristics. Two compulsory components of the future score might be liver biopsy and associated autoimmune disorders. The existing scores could be used in children with consideration, preferably both at once and together with liver biopsy for increased accuracy.
The interplay of corporate social responsibility and corporate political activity in emerging markets: The role of strategic flexibility in non‐market strategies
Authors: Kamasak Rifat , James Simon R. , Yavuz Meltem
Published: January 2019

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate political activities are complementary, and the coordinated management of corporate social responsibility and corporate political activities may lead to better firm performance. However, corporate social responsibility and corporate political activities should be aligned carefully to utilize this complementarity. Strategic flexibility, which is the ability of a firm to adapt to changes in the external environment and make necessary organizational modifications quickly, can help firms to align their corporate social responsibility and corporate political activities. This paper empirically investigates the political dimension and the interactive dimension which describes interactions between corporate social responsibility and corporate political activities together with strategic flexibility and their effects on firm performance through a study of 142 firms in Turkey using moderated multiple regression methods. The results show that, while the political dimension had an inverted U‐shaped effect on firm performance, indicating that only a moderate level of corporate political activities may improve financial performance, the interactive dimension had positive but limited implications for performance. Finally, it was found strategic flexibility plays a positive moderating role on the relationships between the interactive dimension and firm performance. It is concluded that complementarity between corporate social responsibility and corporate political activities which may result in better performance is contingent on strategic flexibility.
AMPK signalling: Implications for podocyte biology in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Szrejder Maria , Piwkowska Agnieszka
Published: January 2019

Diabetic nephropathy is a major long‐term complication of diabetes mellitus and one of the most common causes of end‐stage renal disease. Thickening of the glomerular basement membrane, glomerular cell hypertrophy and podocyte loss are among the main pathological changes that occur during diabetic nephropathy, resulting in proteinuria. Injury to podocytes, which are a crucial component of the glomerular filtration barrier, seems to play a key role in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Recent studies have suggested that dysregulation of AMP‐activated kinase protein, which is an essential cellular energy sensor, may play a fundamental role in this process. The purpose of this review is to highlight the molecular mechanisms associated with AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) in podocytes that are involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.
Nuclear envelope dynamics during mammalian spermatogenesis: new insights on male fertility
Authors: Pereira Cátia D. , Serrano Joana B. , Martins Filipa , da Cruz e Silva Odete A. B. , Rebelo Sandra
Published: January 2019

The production of highly specialized spermatozoa from undifferentiated spermatogonia is a strictly organized and programmed process requiring extensive restructuring of the entire cell. One of the most remarkable cellular transformations accompanying the various phases of spermatogenesis is the profound remodelling of the nuclear architecture, in which the nuclear envelope (NE) seems to be crucially involved. In recent years, several proteins from the distinct layers forming the NE (i.e. the inner and outer nuclear membranes as well as the nuclear lamina) have been associated with meiosis and/or spermiogenesis in different mammalian species. Among these are A‐ and B‐type lamins, Dpy‐19‐like protein 2 (DPY19L2), lamin B receptor (LBR), lamina‐associated polypeptide 1 (LAP1), LAP2/emerin/MAN1 (LEM) domain‐containing proteins, spermatogenesis‐associated 46 (SPATA46) and diverse elements of the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, namely Sad‐1/UNC‐84 homology (SUN) and Klarsicht/ANC‐1/Syne‐1 homology (KASH) domain‐containing proteins. Herein, we summarize the current state of the art on the cellular and subcellular distribution of NE proteins expressed during mammalian spermatogenesis, and discuss the latest research developments regarding their testis‐specific functions. This review provides a comprehensive and innovative overview of the NE network as a regulatory platform and as an essential determinant of efficient meiotic chromosome recombination as well as spermiogenesis‐associated nuclear remodelling and differentiation in mammalian male germline cells. Thus, this review provides important novel insights on the biological relevance of NE proteins for male fertility.
Spectrophotometric versus spectrofluorometric assessment in the study of the relationships between lipid peroxidation and metabolic dysregulation
Authors: Ungurianu Anca , Șeremet Oana , Grădinaru Daniela , Ionescu‐Tîrgoviște Constantin , Margină Denisa , Dănciulescu Miulescu Rucsandra
Published: January 2019

Reactive oxygen species are crucial to normal cell function, but are also part of the pathogenesis of multiple modern maladies. As such, sensitive, fast, and reliable methods of appreciating redox status are needed. We aimed to optimize the Amplex Red (AR) and ferric–xylenol orange (FOX) methods using human serum samples, rat tissue homogenates, and mitochondrial preparations. For AR, we intended to reduce probe concentration, maintaining method sensitivity, as well as extending its use from isolated lipoproteins samples, and readjust it for a high‐throughput application. Also, we evaluated the usefulness of a modified xylenol orange‐based spectrophotometric protocol, comparing and contrasting these methods in terms of clinical relevance and suitability for their further use in assessing redox status of various biological samples in different pathological conditions. Our results show that these optimized protocols are suitable for complex in vivo studies, as they require low quantities of sample and reagents, and are sensitive, rapid, and economical, with the option of adapting them for high‐throughput analysis. For a better assessment of oxidative status of serum‐derived samples, the two methods can be used concurrently, while for tissue‐derived ones, either can be employed for the measurement of a global redox status.
Etiology and classification of food impaction around implants and implant‐retained prosthesis
Authors: Chopra Aditi , Sivaraman Karthik , Narayan Aparna I , Balakrishnan Dhanasekar
Published: January 2019

Background

Food impaction is a common risk factor for the initiation of peri‐implant inflammation and failure of the osseointegrated implant. Although clinicians do acknowledge the presence of food impaction around implants and implant‐retained prosthesis, no classification system has yet classified the food impaction around the implant and implant‐retained prosthesis.

Purpose

The present paper aims to identify and classify the plausible etiology of food impaction around implants and implant‐related prosthesis.

Materials and Methods

The following search terms were utilized for data search: “Food Impaction” AND “Implants” AND “Food Impaction” AND “Perimplantitis” AND “Food Impaction” AND “Classification.” Articles that were written in the English language in PubMed and Cochrane Library database from 1930 till September 2018 were scrutinized. A total of 24 articles were scrutinized, out of which only 15 articles were selected.

Results

Food impaction around implants is broadly classified into five categories based on the number of implants, nature of implants prosthesis involved for replacement and relation of the implant prosthesis to the adjacent tooth, restoration, or prosthesis.

Conclusion

This is the first classification designed to classify food impaction around dental implants and implant‐retained prosthesis. The classification can be used by clinicians for optimal diagnosis, interpretation, and treatment plan for patients.
PASOS: a method for the phylogenetic analysis of shape ontogenies
Authors: Catalano Santiago A. , Segura Valentina , Vera Candioti Florencia
Published: January 2019

We present a novel phylogenetic approach to infer ancestral ontogenies of shape characters described as landmark configurations. The method is rooted in previously published theoretical developments to analyse landmark data in a phylogenetic context with parsimony as the optimality criterion, in this case using the minimization of differences in landmark position to define not only ancestral shapes but also the changes in developmental timing between ancestor–descendant shape ontogenies. Evolutionary changes along the tree represent changes in relative developmental timing between ontogenetic trajectories (possible heterochronic events) and changes in shape within each stage. The method requires the user to determine the shape of the specimens between two standard events, for instance birth and onset of sexual maturity. Once the ontogenetic trajectory is discretized into a series of consecutive stages, the method enables the user to identify changes in developmental timing associated with changes in the offset and/or onset of the shape ontogenetic trajectories. The method is implemented in a C language program called SPASOS. The analysis of two empirical examples (anurans and felids) using this novel method yielded results in agreement with previous hypotheses about shape evolution in these groups based on non‐phylogenetic analyses.
Short‐ and long‐term outcomes of laser haemorrhoidoplasty for grade II–III haemorrhoidal disease
Authors: Faes S. , Pratsinis M. , Hasler‐Gehrer S. , Keerl A. , Nocito A.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Laser haemorrhoidoplasty is associated with minimal postoperative pain and good symptom improvement in the short‐term. However, less is known about its long‐term efficacy. This study aims to determine the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of laser haemorrhoidoplasty.

Method

Between October 2010 and May 2012, 50 consecutive patients with grade II–III haemorrhoids were treated with laser haemorrhoidoplasty. Short‐term follow‐up was assessed on days 1, 30 and 60 and long‐term follow‐up was at 5 years (haemorrhoidal stage reduction, pain, patient satisfaction, symptom improvement, incapacity for work, continence, complications, recurrence).

Results

Short‐term follow‐up was achieved for all patients and long‐term follow‐up for 44/50 patients (88%). At short‐term follow‐up, haemorrhoidal stage reduction was documented in 49 (98%) patients. Complete or good symptom improvement was reported by 36/50 (72%) and 10/50 patients (20%) at 60 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 9/50 patients (18%) with three Clavien–Dindo grade IIIb complications (two fistulas, one incontinence), one grade IIIa (perianal thrombosis) and five grade I (one perianal thrombosis, two perianal eczema, one local bleeding, one anal fissure). Postoperative pain was low (visual analogue scale 0–1) at day 1 in 37/50 (74%), at day 30 in 47/50 (94%) and at day 60 in 50/50 patients (100%). After a mean follow‐up of 5.4 years (SD 5.4 months) the recurrence rate was 34% (15/44 patients) with a median time to recurrence of 21 months (range 0.2–6 years).

Conclusion

Although laser haemorrhoidoplasty achieves a high short‐term success rate with respect to stage reduction and symptom improvement, it is associated with a high rate of minor postoperative complications and long‐term recurrence. Therefore, laser haemorrhoidoplasty should be used with caution.
The “green nail” phenomenon in ICG‐enhanced fluorescence optical imaging – a potential tool for the differential diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Wiemann Oliver , Werner Stephanie G. , Langer Hans‐Eckhard , Backhaus Marina , Chatelain René
Published: January 2019

Background and objectives

Early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis poses a particular challenge. A novel fluorescence optical imaging technique, the Xiralite® system is very useful in this regard as it allows for visualization of microvasculature and perfusion. The present study is the first to systematically examine fluorescence optical signals in a large psoriatic arthritis cohort.

Patients and methods

In the primary study, we reviewed and analyzed extra‐articular fluorescence optical signal patterns in 241 imaging sequences obtained from 187 psoriatic arthritis patients; 36 fluorescence optical sequences from 31 patients with rheumatoid arthritis served as controls. In a follow‐up study, 203 consecutive fluorescence optical sequences from 54 psoriatic arthritis patients and 149 control subjects with various inflammatory rheumatic disorders were retrospectively evaluated in order to validate the primary study results in terms of the patterns previously identified.

Results

Psoriatic arthritis patients exhibited three different fluorescence optical signal patterns in projection of the nails that have not been previously described. One of these patterns was the “green nail” sign, which was highly specific (97 %) for psoriatic arthritis. In the follow‐up study, the specificity of this phenomenon in psoriatic arthritis was 87 % in comparison to the control cohort.

Conclusions

In the present study, fluorescence optical signals in the nail region proved to be highly specific for psoriatic arthritis. The “green nail” phenomenon seems to be of particular diagnostic interest as a potential sign of impaired microcirculation of the nail bed.
Projected 21st‐century distribution of canopy‐forming seaweeds in the Northwest Atlantic with climate change
Authors: Wilson Kristen L. , Skinner Marc A. , Lotze Heike K.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Climate change is predicted to alter the distribution and abundance of marine species, including canopy‐forming seaweeds which provide important ecosystem functions and services. We asked whether continued warming will affect the distribution of six common canopy‐forming species: mid‐intertidal fucoids (Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus), low‐intertidal Irish moss (Chondrus crispus), subtidal laminarian kelps (Saccharina latissima, Laminaria digitata) and the invasive Codium fragile.

Location

Northwest Atlantic.

Methods

We used occurrence records and the correlative presence‐only species distribution model Maxent to determine present‐day distribution. This distribution was compared to each species’ warm‐water physiological thresholds indicating areas of stable or reduced growth and mortality. Present‐day models were then projected to mid‐century (2040–2050) and end‐century (2090–2100) using two contrasting carbon emission scenarios (RCP2.6 and 8.5) and two global climate models from CMIP5 based on changes in ocean temperatures.

Results

Projected range shifts were minimal under low emissions (RCP2.6), but substantial species‐specific range shifts were projected under high emissions (RCP8.5), with all species except C. fragile predicted to experience a northward shift in their southern (warm) edge of ≤406 km by the year 2100. Northward expansions outweighed southern extirpations for fucoids and C. crispus leading to overall range expansions, while range contractions were projected for kelps and C. fragile. Model projections generally agreed with physiological thresholds but were more conservative suggesting that range shifts for kelps may be underpredicted.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight the benefits to be gained from strong climate change mitigation (RCP2.6), which would limit changes in rocky shore community distribution and composition. The business‐as‐usual RCP8.5 scenario projected major range shifts, seaweed community reorganization and transitions in dominant species south of Newfoundland by 2100 (~47°N). As canopy‐forming seaweeds provide essential habitat, carbon storage, nutrient cycling and commercial value, understanding their response to continued climate warming is critical to inform coastal management and conservation planning.
Prognostic value of hyperuricemia in patients with acute coronary syndrome: A meta‐analysis
Authors: He Cuifang , Lin Peihuan , Liu Wenbing , Fang Kuaifa
Published: January 2019

Background

The prognostic significance of elevated circulating uric acid level in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is conflicting. This meta‐analysis aimed to assess the prognostic value of hyperuricemia in patients with ACS.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed in Pubmed, Embase, VIP, CNKI and WanFang databases up to 16 June 2018. All observational studies that investigated the prognostic value of hyperuricemia in ACS patients were selected. Outcome of interests was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), all‐cause mortality or cardiovascular mortality.

Results

A total of nine studies enrolling 8776 ACS patients were included and analysed. ACS patients with hyperuricemia had an increased risk of MACEs (risk ratio [RR]: 1.86; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.47‐2.35), all‐cause mortality (RR 1.86; 95% CI: 1.49‐2.32) and cardiovascular mortality (RR: 1.74; 95% CI: 1.36‐2.22) after adjustment for the conventional risk factors. Stratified analysis showed that the prognostic significance of hyperuricemia was consistently observed in each subgroups.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggests that hyperuricemia independently predicts MACEs and death in ACS patients. Determination of uric acid level has potential to improve risk stratification of adverse outcomes in ACS patients.
Telemedicine screening adolescent metabolic syndrome in Greek schools
Authors: Bacopoulou Flora , Efthymiou Vasiliki , Palaiologos George , Tsarouhas Konstantinos , Landis Georgios , Fostiropoulos Ioannis , Kaklea Maria , Rentoumis Anastasios , Papassotiriou Ioannis
Published: January 2019

Background

Using telemedicine in the school setting in Greece, we screened a representative adolescent sample for MetS (International Diabetes Federation criteria) and explored its associations with anthropometric, sociodemographic and behavioural parameters.

Materials and methods

Cross‐sectional data were obtained from 12‐ to 17‐year‐old high school students.

Results

The prevalence of MetS in 1578 adolescents (mean age ± SD 14.4 ± 1.7 years) was 2.6% (3.4% among males; 2.0% among females), highest (4.3%) at age 13 years and lowest (1.3%) at 16 years. Adolescents with MetS had significantly higher mean body mass index (BMI) ± SD than those without MetS (30.2 ± 4.2 vs 21.3 ± 3.2 kg/m2, respectively; P < 0.001); among participants with obesity, 31.6% had MetS. Abdominal obesity, elevated triglycerides, low HDL‐cholesterol, impaired fasting blood glucose (FBG) and elevated blood pressure (BP) were detected in 9.5%, 2.3%, 10.7%, 25.9% and 21.8% of participants, respectively. Additional analysis (modified NCEP:ATPIII youth criteria) demonstrated similar overall prevalence of MetS (2.9%). Statistically significant correlations were found between most anthropometric and MetS characteristics, with the exception of FBG, which was correlated only with systolic BP. BMI was strongly correlated with waist and hip circumferences (r = 0.818, P < 0.001; r = 0.825, P < 0.001, respectively). Single parenthood and older maternal age (>60 years) were risk factors for MetS. Although counterintuitive, body image distortion, body dissatisfaction and bullying about weight were more prevalent in normal weight girls.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of MetS was low but 12‐fold higher when obesity was taken into account. Impaired FBG and elevated BP were the most prevailing features. Telemedicine services were used effectively in Greek schools for screening youth MetS.
Perspectives in affective disorders: Clocks and sleep
Authors: Wirz‐Justice Anna , Benedetti Francesco
Published: January 2019

Mood disorders are often characterised by alterations in circadian rhythms, sleep disturbances and seasonal exacerbation. Conversely, chronobiological treatments utilise zeitgebers for circadian rhythms such as light to improve mood and stabilise sleep, and manipulations of sleep timing and duration as rapid antidepressant modalities. Although sleep deprivation (“wake therapy”) can act within hours, and its mood‐elevating effects be maintained by regular morning light administration/medication/earlier sleep, it has not entered the regular guidelines for treating affective disorders as a first‐line treatment. The hindrances to using chronotherapeutics may lie in their lack of patentability, few sponsors to carry out large multi‐centre trials, non‐reimbursement by medical insurance and their perceived difficulty or exotic “alternative” nature. Future use can be promoted by new technology (single‐sample phase measurements, phone apps, movement and sleep trackers) that provides ambulatory documentation over long periods and feedback to therapist and patient. Light combinations with cognitive behavioural therapy and sleep hygiene practice may speed up and also maintain response. The urgent need for new antidepressants should hopefully lead to reconsideration and implementation of these non‐pharmacological methods, as well as further clinical trials. We review the putative neurochemical mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effect of sleep deprivation and light therapy, and current knowledge linking clocks and sleep with affective disorders: neurotransmitter switching, stress and cortico‐limbic reactivity, clock genes, cortical neuroplasticity, connectomics and neuroinflammation. Despite the complexity of multi‐system mechanisms, more insight will lead to fine tuning and better application of circadian and sleep‐related treatments of depression.
The Contribution of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to the Configuration of an Ecumenical “Integral Ecology”
Authors: Sereti Maria G.
Published: January 2019

This contribution deals with the issue of the environment, which is centre stage in the ecumenical movement. The research focuses on environmental actions and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s interest in our common home (oikos). It is important that the Ecumenical Patriarch envisages ecology as an integral part of life, a perspective shared by Pope Francis. According to Patriarch Bartholomew, the ecological problem affects all humankind, and above all has a painful impact on the poor and the weak. The message of the Ecumenical Patriarch is one of solidarity and humanity for the marginalized and the poor. The eucharist, the vision of integral ecology, urges us to look after nature and people and fight against exploitation, poverty, and hunger. The Ecumenical Patriarch, from his view of ecology as integral, emphasizes that the environment is not an object for exploitation and expresses his concern for the lack of respect for both nature and people.
Haitian Vodou and Ecotheology
Authors: Weber A. S.
Published: January 2019

This contribution reviews ecotheological perspectives among traditional practitioners of the West African religions known as Vodun and Voodoo and their diasporic syncretic variants Hoodoo, Haitian Vodou and Louisiana Voodoo, using Haiti as the main case study. Based on ethnographic and comparative religion scholarship, as well as consultation with researchers in the field, it discusses Voodoo traditions in light of modern ecotheological concerns, such as sustainability, dominion over nature, anthropocentrism, and animal rights. It also discusses the sometimes accommodating and sometimes hostile relationship with Catholicism with respect to nature and spirit worship, and the overlap of saints and Voodoo spirits as intermediaries. Despite finding a striking disjunction between environmentally unfriendly practices in Haiti and its religious views of nature as sacred, the paper argues that the historical adaptability and accommodationism of Haitian Vodou practices may provide the basis for an eco‐friendly approach to natural resource management and a renewed spiritualized view of nature.
Tackling Climate Change
Authors: van Duin Marijke
Published: January 2019

This article seeks to address the apparent lack of willingness to fully address climate change by looking to the psychological aspects of the problem, particularly through the depth psychology of C. G. Jung. The article unfolds the emerging field of climate psychology and explores the cognitive dissonance behind public reactions to the phenomenon of climate change before explaining central Jungian concepts and their relevance to addressing the deeper personal, social, and cultural aspects of climate change.
IL‐17A/F in Leishmania major‐resistant C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Dietze‐Schwonberg Kirsten , Lopez Kostka Susanna , Lorenz Beate , Regen Tommy , Waisman Ari , von Stebut Esther
Published: January 2019

Proinflammatory IL‐17 plays an important role in various diseases and defence against extracellular microorganisms. Healing of leishmaniasis is promoted by Th1/Tc1 cells, whereas Th2/Treg are associated with worsened disease outcome. In addition, high expression of IL‐17A in Leishmania‐susceptible BALB/c and artificial overexpression of IL‐17A in T cells in resistant C57BL/6 mice worsened disease outcome. Since C57BL/6 mice lacking only IL‐17A exhibited no phenotype, and IL‐17A and IL‐17F share similar receptors, but differentially regulate chemokine secretion, we studied mice lacking both IL‐17A and IL‐17F (IL‐17A/F−/−) in infections with Leishmania major. Interestingly, lesion volumes and parasite burdens were comparable to controls, IL‐17A/F−/− mice developed a Th1/Tc1 phenotype, and exhibited normal lesion resolution. Thus, in C57BL/6 mice, secretion of IL‐17A and IL‐17F does not influence disease progression. It appears that—depending on the genetic background—cytokines of the IL‐17 family might be responsible for disease progression primarily in susceptible mice.
Is there a blue transition underway?
Authors: Nahuelhual Laura , Defeo Omar , Vergara Ximena , Blanco Gustavo , Marín Sandra L. , Bozzeda Fabio
Published: January 2019

In this study, we describe what we term a Blue Transition, defined as the passage from fish biomass reduction to recovery in exploited aquatic resources, enabled by aquaculture. A Blue Transition is a key component of emergent “blue” discourses which support that the expansion of aquaculture would relieve pressure on declining capture fisheries, thus contributing to global food security, particularly of the poorest populations. Based on global secondary data and the case of Chile, we explore the evidence of such claim and the implications of a Blue Transition for fisheries and aquaculture development. In 2012, worldwide aquaculture production surpassed wild captures; nevertheless, such turnaround would have not taken place without China's contribution. In Chile, this turnaround occurred in 2014, concurrently with the lowest industrial landings registered since the 1960s (1,227,359 tons). Chile's aquaculture is not relieving wild fisheries or satisfying food demands of the lower income population, in the country or elsewhere. Salmon, the main aquaculture product, is destined mainly to Japan, Russia and United States where, due to its high prices, it is consumed mostly by wealthy consumers. For the case at hand, evidence suggests that a blue transition may be underway but is going in the wrong direction: from what may have been sustainable fisheries management before the 1970s to the overexploited wild fisheries of today.
Spatiotemporal variability in the phenology of the initial intra‐annual molt of American lobster (Homarus americanus Milne Edwards, 1837) and its relationship with bottom temperatures in a changing Gulf of Maine
Authors: Staples Kevin W. , Chen Yong , Townsend David W. , Brady Damian C.
Published: January 2019

This study uses the Maine Department of Marine Resources Lobster Sea Sampling data (2000–2016) and logistic models to develop the first time series for the timing and suddenness of onset of the initial intra‐annual molt of American lobster in the Gulf of Maine (GoM), an annual fishery recruitment event crucial to fishermen. Data from three GoM regions (eastern, central, and western coastal Maine) were further divided by sex and estimated maturity of sampled lobsters for analysis. We found differences in the patterns of initial molt timing and suddenness between the regions, sexes, and stages of maturity. Using the Northeast Coastal Ocean Forecasting System hindcast temperatures, seasonal accumulated degrees above 5°C were used to describe the thermal history for each region at ocean depths of about 5 and 110 m. These temperature metrics were used in generalized linear models to investigate the potential effects of seasonal temperatures on the initial molt season. Results showed that initial intra‐annual molting of lobsters was variable from 2000 to 2016, with periods of both earlier and more sudden molts and later and more protracted molts. Warmer temperatures, specifically inshore temperatures, were generally associated with an earlier molt, but without complete uniformity in the direction and magnitude across seasons, regions, and lobster demographics. We also discuss why developing molt time series and quantifying the connection to the bottom temperatures are necessary and emphasized why existing monitoring programs and the applied quantification techniques herein make this relationship difficult to quantify.
Provision of consumer health information in Alberta's Rural Public Libraries
Authors: Danhoundo Georges , Whistance‐Smith Doug , Lemoine Daniel , Konkin Jill
Published: January 2019

Background

Access to health services is a major challenge in many rural communities within Canada. Rural public libraries can serve as centres for health resources.

Objective

The aim of this exploratory study was to analyse the manner in which Alberta's rural libraries provide health information to their patrons.

Methods

A questionnaire including closed ended and open ended questions was sent to the 285 rural libraries across the Canadian province of Alberta. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis techniques were used for the data analysis.

Results

The findings indicate that in three quarters of Alberta's rural libraries, about 10% of requests for assistance were related to health issues. The provision of health information in these libraries is hampered by the lack of Internet, private space for reference interviews, and staff and volunteer training. Library staff members were inexperienced in conducting reference transactions and reported lacking confidence in meeting patrons’ needs and ethical standards.

Discussion

Addressing these challenges will require the recruitment of more qualified librarians in rural library systems, possibly through incentive measures, and a comprehensive education and training programme for both staff and volunteers combined with the necessary resource support for the rural libraries.

Conclusion

When human and material resources are adequate, rural libraries can contribute to improving the health literacy of their communities.
The Experience of Prison Recall in England and Wales
Authors: FITZALAN HOWARD FLORA
Published: January 2019

The number of people recalled to custody in England and Wales has increased in recent years. Improving successful re‐release by engaging people in an effective recall process would achieve better outcomes for prisons, probation, and the public. Analysing in‐depth accounts of seven men, recall was experienced as painful and damaging rather than rehabilitative, lacking in credibility and legitimacy, and as a process faced alone. Progression was inhibited by hopelessness and powerlessness. Some expressed motivation for the future, but others intended to disengage from supervision. There is a need for greater procedural justice, collaboration, autonomy, hope, and trust, in the recall process and supervisory relationships.
The role of psychological theories in oral health interventions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sanaei Nasab Hormoz , Yazdanian Mohsen , Mokhayeri Yaser , Latifi Marzieh , Niksadat Negin , Harooni Javad , Armoon Bahram
Published: January 2019

Objective

In the present study, we attempted to assess how psychological theories (health belief model [HBM], theory of planned behaviour [TPB], social cognitive theory [SCT], clinical theories [CT] and other theories [OT]) influence oral health interventions.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane and Web of Knowledge databases from 2000 to 2017 were searched. We defined psychological theories based on five subgroups: (A) HBM, (B) TPB, (C) SCT, (E) CT and (F) OT.

Results

From the 156 identified studies, 19 studies based on PICO were included. Our findings indicated that the standardized mean difference (SMD) of HBM was 0.37 (95% CI: 0.24, 0.51), which was statistically significant in improving oral health. The SMD of SCT was not significant (0.05 [95% CI: −0.33, 0.44]) in improving oral health. The SMD of TPB was significant (1.66 [95% CI: 1.06, 2.27]) in improving oral health. The SMD of CT (−4.6 [95% CI: −6.49, −2.71]) and OT (2.93 [95% CI: 1.55, 4.32]) revealed significant differences in improving oral health.

Conclusion

The current meta‐analysis showed that in general, psychological interventions that used OT, CT, HBM and TPB were effective in enhancing oral health status, and interventions that used SCT did not have an effect on improving oral health status. Oral health care providers who work with patients to take methods and improve behaviours that are related to appropriate oral health need to comprehend their applicability and strengths.
Preferred Reporting Items for RAndomized Trials in Endodontics (PRIRATE) guidelines: a development protocol
Authors: Nagendrababu V. , Duncan H. F. , Bjørndal L. , Kvist T. , Priya E. , Pulikkotil S. J. , Jayaraman J. , Dummer P. M. H.
Published: January 2019

Randomized clinical trials are acknowledged as the most appropriate methodology for demonstrating the efficacy or effectiveness of one intervention as opposed to another and thus play a major role in clinical decision‐making. However, it is recognized that despite the existence of various guidelines, for example, the Consolidated Standards for Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement, the quality of manuscripts describing randomized trials is often suboptimal. The current project aims to develop and disseminate new guidelines, Preferred Reporting Items for RAndomized Trials in Endodontics (PRIRATE), to improve the planning and reporting quality of randomized trials in the field of Endodontics. The project leads (VN, PD) designed a robust process to develop the PRIRATE guidelines. At first, a steering committee of eight members, including the project leads, was formed. Thereafter, a five‐stage consensus process will be followed: initial steps, pre‐meeting activities, face‐to‐face consensus meeting, post‐meeting activities and post‐publication activities. The steering committee will develop the first draft of the PRIRATE guidelines by identifying relevant and important items from various sources including the CONSORT guidelines and the Clinical and Laboratory Images in Publications (CLIP) principles. This will be followed by the establishment of a PRIRATE Delphi Group (PDG) consisting of 30 members. The individual items of the first draft of the PRIRATE guidelines developed by the steering committee will be evaluated and scored on a 9‐point Likert scale by the PDG members. Items with a score of seven and above by more than 70% of PDG members will be included in the second draft of the guidelines, and the Delphi process will be repeated until each item fulfils the set conditions. After obtaining consensus from the PDG, the PRIRATE guidelines will be discussed by 20 selected individuals within a PRIRATE Face‐to‐face Consensus Meeting Group (PFCMG) to arrive at a final consensus. The final PRIRATE guidelines will be accompanied with an explanation and elaboration document developed by the steering committee and approved by six members, three from the PDG and three from the PFCMG. The PRIRATE guidelines will be published in journals and actively disseminated to educational institutions, national and international academic societies and presented at scientific meetings. The steering committee will periodically revise and update the PRIRATE guidelines based on feedback from stakeholders.
Association between genetic obesity susceptibility and mother‐reported eating behaviour in children up to 5 years
Authors: de Lauzon‐Guillain Blandine , Koudou Yves Akoli , Botton Jérémie , Forhan Anne , Carles Sophie , Pelloux Véronique , Clément Karine , Ong Ken K. , Charles Marie Aline , Heude Barbara ,   On behalf of the EDEN Mother‐Child Cohort Study Group
Published: January 2019

Background

Many genetic polymorphisms identified by genome‐wide association studies for adult body mass index (BMI) have been suggested to regulate food intake.

Objective

The objective was to study the associations between a genetic obesity risk score, appetitive traits, and growth of children up to age 5 years, with a longitudinal design.

Methods

In 1142 children from the Etude des Déterminants pre et post natals de la santé de l'ENfant (EDEN) birth cohort, a combined obesity risk‐allele score (BMI genetic risk score [GRS]) was related to appetitive traits (energy intake up to 12 mo, a single item on appetite from 4 mo to 3 y, a validated appetite score at 5 y) using Poisson regressions with robust standard errors. The potential mediation of appetitive traits on the association between BMI‐GRS and growth was assessed by the Sobel test.

Results

Children with a high BMI‐GRS were more likely to have high energy intake at 1 year and high appetite at 2 and 5 years. High energy intake in infancy and high appetite from 1 year were related to higher subsequent BMI. High 2‐year appetite seemed to partially mediate the associations between BMI‐GRS and BMI from 2 to 5 years (all P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Genetic susceptibility to childhood obesity seems to be partially explained by appetitive traits in infancy, followed by an early childhood rise in BMI.
Associations of sleep patterns with metabolic syndrome indices, body composition, and energy intake in children and adolescents
Authors: Mi Sarah J. , Kelly Nichole R. , Brychta Robert J. , Grammer Anne Claire , Jaramillo Manuela , Chen Kong Y. , Fletcher Laura A. , Bernstein Shanna B. , Courville Amber B. , Shank Lisa M. , Pomeroy Jeremy J. , Brady Sheila M. , Broadney Miranda M. , Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: January 2019

Background

Self‐reported short sleep duration is associated with greater risk for metabolic syndrome (MetS), obesity, and higher energy intake (EI). However, studies of these associations in children using objective methods are sparse.

Objectives

The study aims to determine the associations for sleep patterns with MetS indices, body composition, and EI using objective measures in children.

Methods

Free‐living sleep and physical activity were measured in 125 children (aged 8‐17 years, BMI z = 0.57 ± 1.0, 55% female) using wrist‐worn actigraphs for 14 nights. Blood pressure, fasting blood levels of lipids, insulin, glucose, waist circumference, and body composition (dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry [DXA]) were obtained during outpatient visits. EI was assessed during an ad libitum buffet meal.

Results

Later weekday and weekend bedtimes were associated with higher systolic blood pressure (Ps < 0.05). Sleep duration and bedtime were not significantly associated with other components of MetS, body composition, or EI. Short sleepers (duration less than 7 hours) consumed a greater percentage of carbohydrates than those with adequate (greater than or equal to 7 hours) sleep (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Indicators of sleep duration were variably associated with children's eating patterns and risk for chronic disease. Prospective data are needed to determine whether these indicators of sleep quality represent unique or shared risk factors for poor health outcomes.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation of Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate in revascularization of non‐vital immature permanent anterior teeth (randomized clinical study)
Authors: Aly Mariam Mohsen , Taha Sherine Ezz El‐Din , El Sayed Manal Ahmed , Youssef Randa , Omar Hany Mahmoud
Published: January 2019

Objective

To asses clinically and radiographically the effect of using two types of coronal plug materials in revascularization of non‐vital immature teeth.

Methods

A total of 26 necrotic immature permanent anterior teeth were enrolled for pulp revascularization using a double antibiotic mix for root canal disinfection. They were randomly divided into the following based on coronal plug materials used: Biodentine (Group I) and white Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (Group II; n = 13). Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Results

When comparing the overall clinical successes and percentage of increase in root length between the two groups, there was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in the distribution of discoloration between the two groups. One case was reported in Group I, and seven cases were reported in Group II (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Both Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate were successful clinically regarding the resolution of signs and symptoms associated with the necrotic teeth.
Artificial ceramic diatoms with multiscale photonic architectures via nanoimprint lithography for CO2 photoreduction
Authors: Xie Peiwen , Chen Zhihan , Xu Jun , Xie Dajie , Wang Xin , Cui Shifan , Zhou Han , Zhang Di , Fan Tongxiang
Published: January 2019

The elaborated photonic architectures and unique light manipulation ability of diatoms provide inspirations for the design of efficient artificial photosynthetic systems. However, the biomimetic synthesis of artificial diatoms with accurate control over nanoscale geometry for scalable production has been a great challenge. Herein, diatom Coscinodiscus sp. is served as a model for the biomimetic production of artificial ceramic diatoms with multiscale photonic architectures for CO2 photoreduction. Optical finite‐difference time‐domain simulations are conducted to investigate the optical mechanisms on enhanced light harvesting and to establish a modified structural model. Electron Beam Lithography and Nanoimprint Lithography are applied to fabricate artificial TiO2 diatoms with elaborated periodic photonic structures and high surface areas (169.4 m2 g−1). Artificial photosynthesis via CO2 reduction enhances CO and CH4 evolution on the artificial diatoms by up to 2.75‐ and 2.3‐fold, respectively, compared with the corresponding powder sample. Furthermore, gas diffusion behaviors, closely related to the gas‐phase reaction, are investigated by theoretical simulation to reveal the hierarchical structural effects on catalytic efficiency. This work provides a new pathway to design and biomimetic synthesis of artificial structures for enhanced performances.
Outstanding optical temperature sensitivity and dual‐mode temperature‐dependent photoluminescence in Ho3+‐doped (K,Na)NbO3–SrTiO3 transparent ceramics
Authors: Lin Jinfeng , Lu Qiling , Xu Jie , Wu Xiao , Lin Cong , Lin Tengfei , Chen Chao , Luo Laihui
Published: January 2019

High optical temperature sensing properties based on rare‐earth‐doped (K,Na)NbO3‐based ferro‐/piezoelectrics have attracted much attention due to their potential application in novel optoelectronic devices. Here, we fabricated Ho3+‐doped (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–SrTiO3 transparent ceramics by conventional pressureless sintering. Their microstructures, transmittances, up‐conversion photoluminescence, and optical temperature sensing properties have been characterized in details. Because of the cubic‐like phase, dense, and fine‐grained structure as well as relaxor‐like feature, the ceramics exhibit high transmittance (~70%) in the near‐infrared region. Owing to Ho3+, green and red up‐conversion emissions have been observed, which can be easily modulated by temperature. The ceramics have stable emission colors (<200°C) and superior temperature‐modulating emission color‐tunable performance (>200°C). Furthermore, the temperature sensing behavior based on the thermally coupled levels (5F4, 5S2) of Ho3+ has been analyzed by a fluorescence intensity ratio technique. The transparent ceramics possess outstanding optical temperature sensitivity (~0.0096/K at 550 K), higher than most rare‐earth‐doped materials (e.g., ceramics, glasses, and phosphors).
Autogenous and drying shrinkage of alkali‐activated slag mortars
Authors: Hu Xiang , Shi Caijun , Zhang Zuhua , Hu Zhangli
Published: January 2019

Shrinkage of alkali‐activated slag (AAS) cement is a critical issue for its industrial application. This study investigated the mechanisms and effectiveness of shrinkage‐reducing agent (SRA) and magnesia expansive agent on reducing autogenous and drying shrinkage of AAS mortars that were activated by liquid sodium silicate (LSS) solution with modulus (SiO2/Na2O molar ratio) of 0‐1.5. The results showed that the autogenous shrinkage of AAS mortars increased with the increase of LSS modulus from 0 to 0.5, then decreased as modulus increased up to 1.5. The drying shrinkage consistently increased with the increase in the modulus of LSS. The oxyalkylene alcohol‐based SRA could significantly reduce the autogenous and drying shrinkage of AAS mortars while the magnesia expensive agent was comparatively less effective. The autogenous shrinkage of AAS mortars was inversely proportional to the internal relative humidity, while the drying shrinkage was more related to the mass loss of samples. Mathematical models were established to describe the autogenous and drying shrinkage behavior of AAS mortars.