bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An expert consensus for the management of chronic hepatitis B in Asian Americans
Authors: Tong M. J. , Pan C. Q. , Han S.‐H. B. , Lu D. S.‐K. , Raman S. , Hu K.‐Q. , Lim J. K. , Hann H. W. , Min A. D.
Published: February 2018

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is common with major clinical consequences. In Asian Americans, theHBsAg carrier rate ranges from 2% to 16% which approximates the rates from their countries of origin. Similarly,HBVis the most important cause of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver related deaths inHBsAg positive Asians worldwide.

Aim

To generate recommendations for the management of Asian Americans infected withHBV.

Methods

These guidelines are based on relevant data derived from medical reports onHBVfrom Asian countries as well as from studies in theHBsAg positive Asian Americans. The guidelines herein differ from other recommendations in the treatment of bothHBeAg positive and negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB), in the approach toHCCsurveillance, and in the management ofHBVin pregnant women.

Results

Asian American patients,HBeAg positive or negative, withHBV DNAlevels >2000 IU/mL (>104copies/mL) andALTvalues above normal are candidates for anti‐viral therapy.HBeAg negative patients withHBV DNA>2000 IU/mL and normalALTlevels but who have either serum albumin <3.5 g/dL or platelet count <130 000 mm3, basal core promoter (BCP) mutations, or who have first‐degree relatives withHCCshould be offered treatment. Patients with cirrhosis and detectableHBV DNAmust receive life‐long anti‐viral therapy. Indications for treatment include pregnant women with high viraemia, coinfected patients, and those requiring immunosuppressive therapy. InHBsAg positive patients with risk factors, life‐long surveillance forHCCwith alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) testing and abdominal ultrasound examination at 6‐month intervals is required. InCHBpatients receivingHCCtreatments, repeat imaging with contrastCTscan orMRIat 3‐month intervals is strongly recommended. These guidelines have been assigned to a Class (reflecting benefit vs. risk) and a Level (assessing strength or certainty) of evidence.

Conclusions

Application of the recommendations made based on a review of the relevant literature and the opinion of a panel of Asian American physicians with expertise inHBVtreatment will inform physicians and improve patient outcomes.
A critical appraisal of the evidence for the role of splenectomy in adults and children with ITP
Authors: Rodeghiero Francesco
Published: February 2018

In primary chronic immune thrombocytopenia, long‐term response to splenectomy, with 60% of patients enjoying a treatment‐free life, is higher when compared with rituximab and similar to that with continuous thrombopoietin‐receptor agonists (TPO‐RA) administration. Splenectomy should continue to be offered to patients failing initial treatments in the absence of increased surgery‐related risks. The higher lifelong safety concerns with splenectomy (increased risk of infection, shared in part with rituximab, and of thrombosis, in common with TPO‐RA) and a mortality <1–2%, justify postponing surgery to the chronic phase, when spontaneous remissions are rarer. Patients failing initial treatment with corticosteroids/intravenous immunoglobulin may use TPO‐RA (or rituximab in selected cases) as a bridge to surgery if they prefer to reconsider splenectomy later on, in case of no response, adverse effects or if sustained response after stopping TPO‐RA is not attained. Special considerations apply in children aged ≤5 years, with splenectomy playing a marginal role. The recent approval of TPO‐RA in children may represent a major advancement.
Visual convincing of intangible cultural relationships using maps: A case study of the Tongariro National Park World Heritage nomination dossier
Authors: Palmer Mark H. , Feyerherm Anna
Published: February 2018

UNESCO World Heritage site nominations require the use and presence of maps and GIS to demarcate potential heritage property boundaries. UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee provided specific cartographic guidelines and standards for the inclusion of maps within the nominations. The New Zealand government used maps and GIS to visually convince UNESCO, the World Heritage Committee, the International Union on the Conservation of Nature, and the International Council on Monuments and Sites of intangible cultural relationships at Tongariro National Park. More specifically, New Zealand combined scientific maps, Māori language narratives, and symbols to make the intangible tangible and geographically visible. Maps and GIS images that accompanied World Heritage nomination dossiers were housed at the UNESCO World Heritage Centre and the International Council on Monuments and Sites in Paris, France. The first section of the paper introduces the data sources and methods used in our archival research. Next, we provide a brief description of the Tongariro National Park nomination and present a case study on, and interpretation of, the maps and GIS contained within the Tongariro National Park World Heritage nomination dossier. Finally, we will offer some conclusions and directions for future research.
Innovating via building absorptive capacity: Interactive effects of top management support of learning, employee learning orientation and decentralization structure
Authors: Li Chenwei , Sun Li‐Yun , Dong Yuntao
Published: February 2018

Building on the organizational learning perspective, the study examines the effect of learning‐related personal and contextual factors on organizational absorptive capability (AC) and subsequent innovative performance, as well as how a decentralized organizational decision‐making structure may moderate these relationships. Using data collected from 112 manufacturing firms, we found a positive effect of top management support of learning and employee learning orientation on AC and subsequent firm innovative performance. Further, we found that decentralization moderated the effect of top management support of learning on innovative performance via AC such that the indirect effect was significant only when decentralization was higher. However, we did not find that the indirect effect of employee learning orientation on innovative performance via AC varied significantly as a function of decentralization structure. This study extends the AC literature by highlighting the importance of managerial learning‐supportive practices and employee learning orientation, and by revealing how decentralization structure facilitates the organization and employees to translate the learning support and learning motivation to AC and innovation.
The role of perceived comprehension in idea evaluation
Authors: Sukhov Alexandre
Published: February 2018

Idea evaluation is a vital stage in the front end of innovation, which helps managers decide the direction of future innovation projects. Often, idea evaluations are crowdsourced from users in order to know their preferences. However, since early ideas are incomplete, evaluations may be exposed to cognitive bias. Previous research suggests that people have a tendency to fill in the gaps in idea descriptions and understand them implicitly, but this can lead to additional processing and result in the undervaluation of the idea. This study tests the relationship between idea completeness, the assessors’ subjective comprehension, and the perceived quality of early ideas for public transport services. The results show that there is no consistently direct effect between completeness and idea quality, which suggests that idea evaluations do not rely on informed decision‐making (i.e., decisions based on the provided information). In fact, people who think they comprehend an idea also perceive its quality more higher than people who do not comprehend it. An increase in completeness acts as an aid for comprehension. These findings have important implications for idea management, and point to the significant effect of incomprehension during evaluation, something which needs to be taken into account when using crowdsourcing.
ERAP1/ERAP2 and RUNX3 polymorphisms are not associated with ankylosing spondylitis susceptibility in Chinese Han
Authors: Su W , Du L , Liu S , Deng J , Cao Q , Yuan G , Kijlstra A , Yang P
Published: February 2018

Previous studies show that endoplasmic reticulum-associated aminopeptidase (ERAP1/ERAP2) and runt-related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3) gene polymorphisms are associated with AS (ankylosing spondylitis) in European Caucasians. However, contradictory results were reported in different Asian populations. The purpose of this study was to determine whether eleven candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ERAP1/ERAP2 and six in RUNX3 genes confer susceptibility to AS with or without acute anterior uveitis (AAU) [AS+AAU+ or AS+AAU–] in Chinese Han. Therefore, a case–control association study was performed in 882 AS+AAU−, 884 AS+AAU+ and 1727 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using the iPLEXGold genotyping assay. A meta-analysis was performed to assess the association of polymorphisms of ERAP1 with AS susceptibility in Asian populations. No association was found between SNPs of ERAP1/ERAP2/RUNX3 and susceptibility of AS with or without AAU. A case–control study between patients with human leucocyte antigen HLA-B27-positive and healthy controls also failed to demonstrate an association of the tested SNP with AS with or without AAU. Moreover, a meta-analysis showed that there was no association of rs30187, rs27037, rs27980, rs27434 and rs27582 in ERAP1 with AS in Chinese Han. Taken together, 17 SNPs in ERAP1/ERAP2 and RUNX3 genes did not confer disease susceptibility to AS in Chinese Han.
In vivo evaluation of β‐CS/n‐HA with different physical properties as a new bone graft material
Authors: Elkholy Sahar , Yahia Sarah , Awad Manal , Elmessiery Medhat
Published: February 2018

Background

Natural polymer composite materials are becoming increasingly important as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. Composite materials based on combinations of biodegradable polymers and bioactive ceramics, including CTS and Hap.

Purpose

β‐Chitosan/n‐HA composite with different percentages was prepared. Some of the physical and mechanical properties were examined by using (scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope). Histological evaluation of in vivo implantation of β‐Chitosan/n‐HA composite as bone graft material was done.

Material and Methods

β‐type chitosan was obtained through a modified procedure from squid pens (Loligo vulgaris). It was used in combination with different proportions of nano‐hydroxyapatite (n‐HA), to develop new series of β‐CS/n‐HA nanocomposites. Sample were obtained in a powder form with the ratio of 30 CH to 70% nHA. The product was implanted in the femoral condyle of the animals (adult rabbits).

Results

Compact strength was 13.05 MPa for the weight ratio of 30/70. Histological examinations showed that the implant not only biological compatible but also its presence promotes and accelerate bone growth.

Conclusions

The composite β‐CS/HPa (30/70) as biodegradable bone substitute that not only enhance bone generation but also accelerate the formation of Haversian system. We used the composite in a powder form and examined its suitability as artificial bone graft; yet the mechanical properties have shown that 30/70 ratio of β‐CS/HPa offer suitable mechanical strength to be employed as a solid‐shaped implants.
Preferential modulation of the lateral habenula activity by serotonin‐2A rather than ‐2C receptors: Electrophysiological and neuroanatomical evidence
Authors: Delicata Francis , Bombardi Cristiano , Pierucci Massimo , Di Maio Roberto , De Deurwaerdère Philippe , Di Giovanni Giuseppe
Published: February 2018

Aims

Serotonergic (5‐HT) modulation of the lateral habenula (LHb) activity is central in normal and pathologic conditions such as mood disorders. Among the multiple 5‐HT receptors (5‐HTRs) involved, the 5‐HT2CR seems to play a pivotal role. Yet, the role of 5‐HT2ARs in the control of the LHb neuronal activity is completely unknown.

Methods

Single‐cell extracellular recording of the LHb neurons was used in rats to study the effect of the general activation and blockade of the 5‐HT2CR and 5‐HT2AR with Ro 60‐0175 and SB242084, TCB‐2 and MDL11939, respectively. The expression of both receptors in the LHb was confirmed using immunohistochemistry.

Results

Cumulative doses (5‐640 μg/kg, iv) of Ro 60‐0175 and TCB‐2 affected the activity of 34% and 63% of the LHb recorded neurons, respectively. LHb neurons were either inhibited at low doses or excited at higher doses of the 5‐HT2A/CR agonists. SB242084 or MDL11939 (both at 200 μg/kg, iv) did not modify neuronal firing when injected alone, but reverted the bidirectional effects of Ro 60‐0175 or TCB‐2, respectively. 5‐HT2CRs and 5‐HT2ARs are expressed in less than the 20% of the LHb neurons, and they neither colocalize nor make heterodimers. Strikingly, only 5‐HT2ARs are expressed by the majority of LHb astrocyte cells.

Conclusions

Peripheral administration of 5‐HT2AR agonist promotes a heterogeneous pattern of neuronal responses in the LHb, and these effects are more prominent than those induced by the 5‐HT2CR activation.
Neuroanatomical profiles of bilingual children
Authors: Archila‐Suerte Pilar , Woods Elizabeth A. , Chiarello Christine , Hernandez Arturo E.
Published: February 2018

The goal of the present study was to examine differences in cortical thickness, cortical surface area, and subcortical volume between bilingual children who are highly proficient in two languages (i.e., English and Spanish) and bilingual children who are mainly proficient in one of the languages (i.e., Spanish). All children (N= 49) learned Spanish as a native language (L1) at home and English as a second language (L2) at school. Proficiency of both languages was assessed using the standardized Woodcock Language Proficiency Battery. Five‐minute high‐resolution anatomical scans were acquired with a 3‐Tesla scanner. The degree of discrepancy between L1 and L2 proficiency was used to classify the children into two groups: children withbalanced proficiencyand children withunbalanced proficiency. The groups were comparable on language history, parental education, and other variables except English proficiency. Values of cortical thickness and surface area of the transverseSTG,IFG‐pars opercularis, andMFG, as well as subcortical volume of the caudate and putamen, were extracted from FreeSurfer. Results showed that children with balanced bilingualism had thinner cortices of the leftSTG, leftIFG, leftMFGand a larger bilateral putamen, whereas unbalanced bilinguals showed thicker cortices of the same regions and a smaller putamen. Additionally, unbalanced bilinguals with stronger foreign accents in the L2 showed reduced surface areas of theMFGandSTSbilaterally. The results suggest that balanced/unbalanced bilingualism is reflected in different neuroanatomical characteristics that arise from biological and/or environmental factors.
Experiences of living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: a systematic review and synthesis of qualitative data
Authors: Domeij Helena , Fahlström Gunilla , Bertilsson Göran , Hultcrantz Monica , Munthe‐Kaas Heather , Gordh Christina Nehlin , Helgesson Gert
Published: February 2018

Aim

To identify and assess available evidence from qualitative studies exploring experiences of individuals living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) or those living with a child with FASD, as well as experiences of interventions aimed at supporting individuals with FASD and their families.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted in six electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Included studies were analysed using manifest content analysis. Methodological limitations and confidence in the evidence were assessed using a modified version of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation–Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research approach respectively.

Results

Findings from 18 studies show that individuals with FASD experience a variation of disabilities, ranging from somatic problems, high pain tolerance, destructive behaviour, hyperactivity, and aggressiveness, to social problems with friendship, school attendance, and maintenance of steady employment. Most studies reported parents’ experiences with FASD; parenting was viewed as a lifelong engagement and that the whole family is isolated and burdened because of FASD. People with FASD feel that their difficulties affect their daily life in a limiting way and make them feel different from others.

Interpretation

From the perspective of primarily parents, individuals with FASD and their parents face many different difficulties, for which they need societal support.

What this paper adds

Individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) feel their difficulties make them different from others.

Parents think of their parenting as a lifelong engagement.

There is a shortage of studies investigating experiences of children with FASD.

There is a shortage of studies investigating experiences of interventions given to individuals with FASD.
3D Printed Surgical Simulation Models as educational tool by maxillofacial surgeons
Authors: Werz S. M. , Zeichner S. J. , Berg B.‐I. , Zeilhofer H.‐F. , Thieringer F.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether inexpensive 3D models can be suitable to train surgical skills to dental students or oral and maxillofacial surgery residents. Furthermore, we wanted to know which of the most common filament materials, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polylactic acid (PLA), can better simulate human bone according to surgeons' subjective perceptions.

Materials and Methods

Upper and lower jaw models were produced with common 3D desktop printers, ABS and PLA filament and silicon rubber for soft tissue simulation. Those models were given to 10 blinded, experienced maxillofacial surgeons to perform sinus lift and wisdom teeth extraction. Evaluation was made using a questionnaire.

Results

Because of slightly different density and filament prices, each silicon‐covered model costs between 1.40‐1.60 USD (ABS) and 1.80‐2.00 USD (PLA) based on 2017 material costs. Ten experienced raters took part in the study. All raters deemed the models suitable for surgical education. No significant differences between ABS and PLA were found, with both having distinct advantages.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that 3D printing with inexpensive printing filaments is a promising method for training oral and maxillofacial surgery residents or dental students in selected surgical procedures. With a simple and cost‐efficient manufacturing process, models of actual patient cases can be produced on a small scale, simulating many kinds of surgical procedures.
Efficacy of slow oscillatory‐transcranial direct current stimulation on EEG and memory – contribution of an inter‐individual factor
Authors: Koo Ping Chai , Mölle Matthias , Marshall Lisa
Published: February 2018

Despite many reports on beneficial effects of anodal slow oscillatory‐transcranial direct current stimulation (so‐tDCS) during non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep on memory consolidation, frequent negative outcomes have also been observed. Our working hypothesis is that so‐tDCS efficacy is strongly dependent upon the susceptibility of the underlying network. One component determining susceptibility of the network is hypothesized to be reflected in learning or ‘task‐induced’ plastic changes. Another component is hypothesized to represent inter‐individual confounds. Twenty‐five (15 female) healthy students participated in two learning conditions with and without so‐tDCS during early nocturnal NREM sleep and in one control condition without learning tasks. So‐tDCS was applied in five 5‐min blocks. EEG was assessed during two time windows: an acute period with five 1‐min epochs after each stimulation block and a 150‐min post‐stimulation time period. Inter‐individual differences were assessed by a memory quotient (MQ) and subjects classified into high‐ vs. low‐scoring groups. Although so‐tDCS was efficient in enhancing fast spindle parameters in the 150‐min time period in all subjects, so‐tDCS failed to modulate memory consolidation. In contrast, in subjects with a high MQ, memory retention on a figural paired‐associate task was significantly increased after so‐tDCS. Task‐induced slow spindle density was modulated in the opposite direction in subjects with high vs. low MQ being increased in the high‐MQ group only. Effects of so‐tDCS on EEG were limited to fast spindle modulations in both time windows. These results reveal that inter‐individual confound can impact so‐tDCS efficacy, suggesting potential use of such factors as biomarkers.
Excitatory extrinsic afferents to striatal interneurons and interactions with striatal microcircuitry
Authors: Assous Maxime , Tepper James M.
Published: February 2018

The striatum constitutes the main input structure of the basal ganglia and receives two major excitatory glutamatergic inputs, from the cortex and the thalamus. Excitatory cortico‐ and thalamostriatal connections innervate the principal neurons of the striatum, the spiny projection neurons (SPNs), which constitute the main cellular input as well as the only output of the striatum. In addition, corticostriatal and thalamostriatal inputs also innervate striatal interneurons. Some of these inputs have been very well studied, for example the thalamic innervation of cholinergic interneurons and the cortical innervation of striatal fast‐spiking interneurons, but inputs to most other GABAergic interneurons remain largely unstudied, due in part to the relatively recent identification and characterization of many of these interneurons. In this review, we will discuss and reconcile some older as well as more recent data on the extrinsic excitatory inputs to striatal interneurons. We propose that the traditional feed‐forward inhibitory model of the cortical input to the fast‐spiking interneuron then inhibiting the SPN, often assumed to be the prototype of the main functional organization of striatal interneurons, is incomplete. We provide evidence that the extrinsic innervation of striatal interneurons is not uniform but shows great cell‐type specificity. In addition, we will review data showing that striatal interneurons are themselves interconnected in a highly cell‐type‐specific manner. These data suggest that the impact of the extrinsic inputs on striatal activity critically depends on synaptic interactions within interneuronal circuitry.
Toward evidence‐based severity assessment in rat models with repeated seizures: I. Electrical kindling
Authors: Möller Christina , Wolf Fabio , van Dijk R. Maarten , Di Liberto Valentina , Russmann Vera , Keck Michael , Palme Rupert , Hellweg Rainer , Gass Peter , Otzdorff Christiane , Potschka Heidrun
Published: February 2018

Objective

Rodent epilepsy models can significantly contribute to our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms and to validation of biomarker and target candidates. Evidence‐based severity assessment is a presupposition for the ethical evaluation of animal experimentation allowances as well as for the development of efficacious refinement concepts.

Methods

Aiming to improve our understanding of the impact of experimental procedures and repeated seizures, we have completed a comprehensive behavioral and biochemical analysis assessing various parameters that can inform about the influence of an electrical kindling paradigm on well‐being in rats. Thereby, we have focused on the immediate effects of phases with focal and generalized seizures with behavioral testing during kindling acquisition.

Results

Electrode implantation exerted mild effects on anxiety‐associated behavior and reduced serum corticosterone at 3 weeks, but not 7 weeks, following surgery. Analysis in kindled rats excluded any relevant impact of focal seizures on behavioral and biochemical parameters. Assessment in rats with generalized seizures revealed an impact on nest complexity scores, nest soiling, and selected parameters in paradigms evaluating anxiety‐associated behavior. Moreover, serum corticosterone levels, but neither hair corticosterone nor fecal corticosterone metabolite concentrations were lowered as a consequence of repeated generalized seizures. The assessment of various other behavioral and biochemical parameters did not reveal any other relevant effects of generalized seizures. Cross‐correlation analysis suggested that assessment of nest building and maintenance can provide information comparable to that from more elaborate behavioral assays. This finding provides first evidence that nest scoring might serve as a simple and valid approach to evaluate rat well‐being during routine assessment schemes.

Significance

The findings argue against a persistent level of pronounced distress and suggest a classification of the kindling paradigm as a model with moderate severity based on a longer‐lasting mild impact on animal behavioral patterns. This suggestion provides a basis for a prospective and retrospective case‐by‐case severity assessment.
The contribution of feedback loops between miRNAs, cytokines and growth factors to the pathogenesis of psoriasis
Authors: Masalha Moamen , Sidi Yechezkel , Avni Dror
Published: February 2018

The present review describes in detail the existent data regarding feedback loops between miRNAs and cytokines or growth factors in the psoriatic inflammation. We have chosen to describe the roles of miR‐31, miR‐21, miR‐146a, miR‐155, miR‐197 and miR‐99a in this process. This choice derives from the fact that among around 250 miRNAs being altered in the psoriatic lesion, the comprehensive functional role was described only in those detailed above. In addition, considering the molecular targets and the pathways, which may possibly be regulated by those miRNAs, it seems that they may be chosen as preferred targets for the therapy of psoriasis.
Seeking alternative stable states in a deep lake
Authors: Bruel Rosalie , Marchetto Aldo , Bernard Anaëlle , Lami Andrea , Sabatier Pierre , Frossard Victor , Perga Marie‐Elodie
Published: February 2018

Hysteresis linked to alternative stable states may explain delays in water quality recovery despite reduced nutrient loadings in shallow lakes. Because deep lakes are assumed to be less prone to critical transitions, similar delays are attributed to the confounding effects of additional environmental disturbances, such as climate warming. Herein, we hypothesised that the lack of evidence of nutrient‐driven alternative stable states in a deep lake arises from the fact that the nutrient threshold that causes the critical transition is lower than the nutrient threshold in shallow lakes. Thereby, it might have been crossed much earlier in the lake history.

To test this hypothesis, we focused on the palaeo‐ecological trajectory of Lake Varese, which is a deep, hypereutrophicated peri‐alpine lake undergoing restoration. Proxies for drivers of ecological state (i.e. total phosphorus—TP—through diatoms and pigments) and ecological responses (Cladocera), as well as a repeatable analysis, were used to identify transitions and to distinguish hysteretic delays from those of the ecosystems responding to additional constraints over the past century.

Our results suggest spatial heterogeneity in the ecological response. The littoral habitats changed abruptly and prematurely for a low TP threshold, causing a shift that met many criteria of a flickering‐type critical transition. Soon after the littoral shift, a striking increase in the lake phosphorous concentration was recorded and drove the pelagic assemblage towards a new state. This transition was abrupt, and the pelagic communities exhibited limited evidence of recovery; however, we found no evidence of hysteresis. Therefore, the modern ecological trajectory of the pelagic communities is currently driven by climate warming.

This detailed analysis allowed us to go beyond the general pattern that links ecological responses to drivers and suggest that a nonlinear transition following eutrophication can take place in a deep lake synchronously with linear transitions. Instead of triggering a new regime shift, climate warming, to which pelagic habitats are more sensitive than littoral ones, has driven the lake further from its safe operating space.
Coming full circle: The 2017 UK general election and the changing electoral map
Authors: Johnston Ron , Rossiter David , Manley David , Pattie Charles , Hartman Todd , Jones Kelvyn
Published: February 2018

After a period of little change, the United Kingdom's electoral map changed markedly in the last decades of the twentieth century and the first decade of the twenty‐first. The three most recent elections – in 2010, 2015 and 2017 – witnessed further very substantial change, in part reflecting changes to the party system and the geography of party competition. This commentary explores those recent changes, showing how changes in support for parties other than the two largest – Conservative and Labour – have resulted in major alterations to the country's electoral geography, with major implications for government formation.
The periplasmic disordered domain of RodZ promotes its self‐interaction in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ikebe Ryosuke , Kuwabara Yuri , Chikada Taiki , Niki Hironori , Shiomi Daisuke
Published: February 2018

Rod shape of bacterial cells such as Escherichia coli is mainly regulated by a supramolecular complex called elongasome including MreB actin. Deletion of the mreB gene in rod‐shaped bacterium E. coli results in round‐shaped cells. RodZ was isolated as a determinant of rod shape in E. coli, Caulobacter crescentus and Bacillus subtilis and it has been shown to be an interaction partner and a regulator of assembly of MreB through its cytoplasmic domain. As opposed to functions of the N‐terminal cytoplasmic domain of RodZ, functions of the C‐terminal periplasmic domain including a disordered region are still unclear. To understand it, we adopted an in vivo photo‐cross‐linking assay to analyze interaction partners to identify proteins which interact with RodZ via its periplasmic domain, finding that the RodZ self‐interacts in the periplasmic disordered domain. Self‐interaction of RodZ was affected by MreB actin. Deletion of this region resulted in aberrant cell shape. Our results suggest that MreB binding to the cytoplasmic domain of RodZ causes structural changes in the disordered periplasmic domain of RodZ. We also found that the disordered domain of RodZ contributes to fine‐tune rod shape in E. coli.
Transgenic mouse lines expressing the 3xFLAG‐dCas9 protein for enChIP analysis
Authors: Fujita Toshitsugu , Kitaura Fusako , Oji Asami , Tanigawa Naoki , Yuno Miyuki , Ikawa Masahito , Taniuchi Ichiro , Fujii Hodaka
Published: February 2018

We developed the engineered DNA‐binding molecule‐mediated chromatin immunoprecipitation (enChIP) technology to isolate specific genomic regions while retaining their molecular interactions. In enChIP, the locus of interest is tagged with an engineered DNA‐binding molecule, such as a modified form of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system containing a guide RNA (gRNA) and a catalytically inactive form of Cas9 (dCas9). The locus is then affinity‐purified to enable identification of associated molecules. In this study, we generated transgenic mice expressing 3xFLAG‐tagged Streptococcus pyogenes dCas9 (3xFLAG‐dCas9) and retrovirally transduced gRNA into primary CD4+ T cells from these mice for enChIP. Using this approach, we achieved high yields of enChIP at the targeted genomic region. Our novel transgenic mouse lines provide a valuable tool for enChIP analysis in primary mouse cells.
Furazolidone treatment for Helicobacter Pylori infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhuge Liya , Wang Youhua , Wu Shuang , Zhao Ru‐Lin , Li Zhen , Xie Yong
Published: February 2018

Antibiotic resistance is a major cause of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) treatment failures. Because the resistance rate of H. pylori to furazolidone is low, we aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of furazolidone. We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases and included randomized controlled trials (RCT) that either compared furazolidone to other antibiotics or changed the administered dose of furazolidone. A total of 18 articles were included in the meta‐analysis. According to the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, the total eradication rates of furazolidone‐containing therapy were superior to those of other antibiotic‐containing therapies (relative risk [RR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01‐1.14) (13 RCTs). Specifically, the eradication rates of furazolidone‐containing therapy were better than those for metronidazole‐containing therapy (RR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.01‐1.21 for ITT). The eradication rate of furazolidone‐containing bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy was 92.9% (95% CI: 90.7%‐95.1%) (PP). In addition, a higher daily dose of furazolidone increased the eradication rate (RR 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05‐1.31). And the incidence of some adverse effects, such as fever and anorexia, was higher in the furazolidone group than in the control group, the overall incidences of total side effects and severe side effects showed no significant differences between the groups. Furazolidone‐containing treatments could achieve satisfactory eradication rates and did not increase the incidence of total or severe adverse effects, but the incidence of milder side effects, such as fever and anorexia, should be considered when prescribing furazolidone‐containing treatments to patients.
Personal strengths reported by people with chronic illness: A qualitative study
Authors: Kristjansdottir Olöf Birna , Stenberg Una , Mirkovic Jelena , Krogseth Tonje , Ljoså Tone Marte , Stange Kurt C. , Ruland Cornelia M.
Published: February 2018

Background

Self‐management of chronic illness can be highly demanding and people need to mobilize their personal strengths to live well with their condition. More knowledge is needed about how people with chronic illness perceive and use their personal strengths as a basis for better integrating empowering person‐centred approaches into health care.

Objective

To explore what people with chronic illness describe as their strengths relevant to their health and well‐being.

Setting and Participants

Thirty‐nine participants (11 men) from 4 outpatient self‐management programmes were recruited to individual or group interviews. Participants included patients with chronic respiratory disease (n = 7), chronic pain (n = 18) and morbid obesity (n = 14). Interviews were analysed using content analysis.

Results

A number of personal strengths were reported and categorized into 3 domains: (i) Internal strengths, (ii) External strengths and (iii) Self‐management strategies. Internal strengths included being persistent, having a positive outlook, being kind and caring, experiencing positive emotions, being kind towards oneself, reconciling oneself with the situation, having courage and having knowledge and insight. External strengths included support from family, friends, peers and health‐care providers. Self‐management strategies included being active, planning and prioritizing, reducing stress, goal setting and seeking knowledge and help.

Discussion and Conclusion

The study provides insights into personal strengths as reported by people with chronic illness. The results complement prior findings on strengths in people with health challenges and can aid in incorporating person‐centred approaches into health care.
Effectiveness and clinical implications of the use of topical antibiotics in regenerative endodontic procedures: a review
Authors: Montero‐Miralles P. , Martín‐González J. , Alonso‐Ezpeleta O. , Jiménez‐Sánchez M. C. , Velasco‐Ortega E. , Segura‐Egea J. J.
Published: February 2018

Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) are biologically based procedures planned to replace damaged tissues, including dentinee and root structures, as well as cells of the pulp–dentine complex. Effective sterilization of the root canal is essential in REPs, and antibiotics have been widely used to disinfect root canals. The aim of this paper was to review the scientific literature on (i) Effectiveness of antibiotics used in REPs against bacteria implicated in endodontic disease; (ii) Scientific evidence supporting the use of topical antibiotics in REPs; (iii) Clinical implications of the use of antibiotics in REPs and the possible side effects; (iv) Effect of antibiotics on dental pulp stem cells; and (v) Ongoing research on the use of antibiotics in REPs. Antibiotics used in REPs are effective against bacteria implicated in endodontic infections. Triple antibiotic pastes with minocycline attain complete disinfection of immature teeth with necrotic pulps, without affecting SCAP. Experimental studies carried out in dogs support the use of antibiotics in REPs. Clinical studies report high success rates of RET using antibiotics as intracanal dressings. However, tooth discolouration is an important side effect of the use of TAP. An antibiotic paste containing only metronidazole and ciprofloxacin could be a good alternative to the use of TAP. The use of antibiotic‐containing scaffolds or clindamycin‐modified triple antibiotic (metronidazole, ciprofloxacin and clindamycin) polymer could be a biologically safe antimicrobial drug delivery system in REPs.
Reparative bone‐like tissue formation in the tooth of a systemic sclerosis patient
Authors: Matsuda S. , Memida T. , Mizuno N. , Ogawa I. , Ouhara K. , Kajiya M. , Fujita T. , Sugiyama E. , Kurihara H.
Published: February 2018

Aim

To report a case of reparative bone‐like tissue formation in the tooth of a patient with systemic sclerosis.

A 58‐year‐old Japanese female patient with systemic sclerosis was referred because of tooth fracture. Cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) revealed multiple root resorption and the unclear transition from alveolar bone to root profile. A sample from a fractured tooth was analysed histologically. Haematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections revealed the irregular replacement of pulp and dentine by bone‐like tissue. Calcinosis was noted in various parts of the body and a histological analysis identified it as dystrophic calcification on sclerosed fibrous connective tissue. Bite force and the occlusal area were markedly weaker than the means for female of the same age.

Key learning points

CBCT may be more useful than dental radiography for diagnosing multiple root resorption in systemic sclerosis patients.

When systemic sclerosis patients have calcinosis, their root status must be examined carefully.

When root resorption is present in systemic sclerosis patients, reparative bone‐like tissue formation in teeth needs to be taken into account prior to the initiation of dental treatment.
Cyclic fatigue resistance of new reciprocating glide path files in 45‐ and 60‐degree curved canals
Authors: Topçuoğlu H. S. , Topçuoğlu G. , Kafdağ Ö. , Arslan H.
Published: February 2018

Aim

To compare the cyclic fatigue resistance of R‐PILOT and WaveOne Gold Glider files in curved artificial canals.

Methodology

A total of 60 new R‐PILOT and WaveOne Gold Glider files were tested in artificial canals with 45° and 60° angles of curvature. Fifteen new files of each brand were tested in both canals. Cyclic fatigue resistance was determined by recording the time to file fracture in the artificial canals. The length of each fractured fragment was also recorded. An independent sample t‐test was used to analyse the data.

Results

In the canal with a 45° angle of curvature, no significant differences were observed between the R‐PILOT and WaveOne Gold Glider files (P > 0.05). In the canal with a 60° angle of curvature, WaveOne Gold Glider files had greater cyclic fatigue resistance than R‐PILOT files (P < 0.05). There was no difference between the files in terms of the lengths of fractured fragments in canals with 45° and 60° angles of curvature (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

WaveOne Gold Glider files exhibited greater cyclic fatigue resistance than R‐PILOT files in artificial canals with a 60° angle of curvature.
Correlation between testicular mast cell count and spermatogenic epithelium in non‐obstructive azoospermia
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Ahmed A. M. , Atef Hoda , Zalata Khaled R. , Abdel‐Latif Atef
Published: February 2018

Although there is emerging evidence that mast cells are involved in infertility, their exact role has not been elucidated clearly. Here we carried out a retrospective case–control study to find out whether there is a correlation between mast cell (MC) count and proliferation (Ki67 index) of the spermatogenic epithelium as well as of the Sertoli cells (vimentin‐positive) in non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA). We assessed MCs, Ki67 and vimentin expression in Sertoli cells in testicular biopsies of germ cell aplasia (GCA, n = 14) and maturation arrest (MA, n = 14) vs. normal spermatogenesis (n = 14) cases. There was a significant decrease in the spermatogonial Ki67 index (1.25 ± 0.91, 4.21 ± 1.81 vs. 39.57 ± 3.92) and Johnsen score (2.48 ± 0.65, 4.89 ± 1.05 vs. 9.75 ± 0.30) as well as a significant increase (P < 0.001) in MC count (29.00 ± 4.11, 7.57 ± 1.95 vs. 3.00 ± 1.30) in seminiferous tubules of infertile cases with GCA and MA vs. controls. On the other hand, the percentage of vimentin‐expressing Sertoli cells was significantly decreased (P < 0.001) in biopsies of cases with MA (35.50 ± 15.62) compared to those of cases with GCA and controls (72.64 ± 10.67 and 98.57 ± 1.45 respectively). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was detected between MC count and Ki67 index as well as Johnsen score in the MA group which became more significant in the GCA group. The significant increase in MC count in the GCA group and to a lesser extent in the MA group indicates their possible role in NOA particularly at the spermatogonial proliferation level and this is supported by the significant negative correlation with the Ki67 index.
Mild diabetes: long‐term effects on gastric motility evaluated in rats
Authors: Hauschildt Andrieli T. , Corá Luciana A. , Volpato Gustavo T. , Sinzato Yuri K. , Damasceno Débora C. , Américo Madileine F.
Published: February 2018

Moderate hyperglycaemic levels seem to be related to abnormal gastric motility indiabetes mellitus. However, experimental models designed to evaluate the relationship between motility and diabetes over time are not yet well established. Our objective was to investigate the long‐term effects of mild diabetes on gastric motility in rats. Newborn male rats received streptozotocin (mild diabetes groups – MD) or vehicle (control groups – C), and both groups were evaluated after 3 (C3 and MD3) and 6 months (C6 and MD6) postinduction. Mild diabetic animals (MD3 and MD6) showed moderately elevated blood glucose and decreased insulin levels compared with control (C3 and C6). Insulin secretion was enhanced in MD6 compared with MD3, most likely due to partial β‐cell regeneration indicated by HOMA‐β. In HOMA‐IR, it was noticed that MD6 animals had impaired insulin response compared with MD3. Gastric emptying was faster, amplitude of contraction was stronger in MD6 compared with MD3, and in both groups, the differences were significant when compared with control animals. A significant abnormal rhythmic index was calculated for the mild diabetic groups, despite unchanged mean frequency of contraction. In conclusion, despite increased insulin levels over time, constant levels of moderate hyperglycaemia are also related to abnormal gastric motility and impairment of gastric function.
Effect of deposition conditions on physical properties of sputtered silicon oxynitride thin films on float glass
Authors: Šimurka Lukáš , Čtvrtlík Radim , Roch Tomáš , Turutoğlu Tuncay , Erkan Selen , Tomaštík Jan , Bange Klaus
Published: February 2018

Silicon oxynitride layers have been widely used to tailor the optical performance and mechanical resistance of multilayer optical coatings. The key issue for their reliable large‐scale application on a glass substrate is the effect of technological parameters on their performance. Here we report on the interrelationship between the conditions of the reactive magnetron deposition process and composition, structure and in turn optical and mechanical properties. The process gas composition and pressure level exhibit a strong influence on the film properties, whereas only moderate effect of magnetron power was observed. The O/(O+N) ratio of the films changes from 0.33 to 0.90 and the film density varies between 2.66 g.cm−3 and 1.85 g.cm−3 along with the increase in the process gas pressure from 0.58 Pa to 1.02 Pa. The refractive index shifts between 1.81 and 1.48 and the residual stress of the film varies in the range from compressive (−385 MPa) to tensile (26 MPa). Hardness and reduced modulus follow the same trend and decline with the increase in process pressure from 12.1 GPa to 2.1 GPa and from 120.3 to 31.6 GPa, respectively. The abrasive wear resistance decreases with the nitrogen content in the films.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach: Is it a safe and feasible treatment option for pheochromocytomas larger than 6 cm?
Authors: Chung Ho Seok , Kim Myung Soo , Yu Ho Song , Hwang Eu Chang , Kim Sun‐Ouck , Oh Kyung Jin , Jung Seung Il , Kang Taek Won , Park Kwangsung , Kwon Dong Deuk
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the surgical feasibility of laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for the treatment of large pheochromocytomas, and to identify the preoperative risk factors for intraoperative hypertension.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 51 patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for the treatment of pheochromocytomas. Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed and compared between the two study groups based on tumor size: group A (n = 27, ≤6 cm) and group B (n = 24, ˃6 cm).

Results

There was no significant difference in preoperative characteristics between the two groups except for tumor size (P = 0.001) and urinary metanephrine (P = 0.011). Group B patients required longer operating time (P = 0.008), had a greater estimated blood loss (P = 0.001) and hemoglobin change (P = 0.002). However, no significant differences were observed in perioperative complications and mortality. Multivariate analysis showed that symptomatic pheochromocytomas (P = 0.004) and tumor size (P = 0.007) were significant risk factors for intraoperative hypertension.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for pheochromocytomas can be regarded as a treatment option, even for tumors measuring >6 cm. Symptomatic pheochromocytomas and large tumor size seem to represent risk factors for intraoperative hypertension.
Coordination in a retailer‐dominated supply chain with a risk‐averse manufacturer under marketing dependency
Authors: Huang Fuyou , He Juan , Lei Qian
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a combined contract composed of option and cost sharing is proposed to investigate coordination and risk‐sharing issues of the supply chain consisting of a dominant retailer and a risk‐averse manufacturer. Demand faced by the retailer is stochastic in nature and dependent on marketing effort. We adopt the conditional value‐at‐risk (CVaR) criterion to model risk aversion of the manufacturer, and derive the optimal strategy for each member with a Stackelberg game in which the retailer acts as the leader. It is verified that the combined contract can coordinate the supply chain and achieve Pareto‐improvement. Moreover, the dominant retailer can allocate the system‐wide profit arbitrarily only by option price in the premise of coordination. It is worth mentioning that coordination of the supply chain is reachable only when the manufacturer is low in risk aversion, and the manufacturer's risk aversion is a significant element for contract design and profit allocation.