bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seed value influences cache pilfering rates by desert rodents
Authors: VANDER WALL Stephen B. , DIMITRI Lindsay A. , LONGLAND William S. , WHITE Joseph D. M.
Published: July 2018

Some rodents gather and store seeds. How many seeds they gather and how they treat those seeds is largely determined by seed traits such as mass, nutrient content, hardness of the seed coat, presence of secondary compounds, and germination schedule. Through their consumption and dispersal of seeds, rodents act as agents of natural selection on seed traits, and those traits influence how rodents forage. Many seeds that are scatter‐hoarded by rodents are pilfered, or stolen, by other rodents, and seed traits also likely influence pilfering rates and seed fates of pilfered seeds. To clarify coevolutionary relationships between rodents and the plants that they disperse, one needs to understand the role of seed traits in rodent foraging decisions. We compared how the seeds of 4 species of plants that are dispersed by scatter‐hoarding animals and that differ in value (singleleaf piñon pine, Pinus monophylla; desert peach, Prunus andersonii; antelope bitterbrush, Purshia tridentata; Utah juniper, Juniperus osteosperma) were pilfered and recached by rodents. One hundred artificial caches of the 4 seed species (25 per species) were prepared, and removal by rodents was monitored. Rodents pilfered high‐value seeds more rapidly than the other seeds. Desert peach seeds, which contain toxic secondary compounds, were more frequently recached. Relatively low value seeds like Utah juniper and antelope bitterbrush were pilfered more slowly and were sometimes left at cache sites, and seeds of the latter species were transported shorter distances to new cache sites. The background density of seeds also appeared to influence the relative value of seeds.
The Associations Between Oral Complex Carbohydrate Sensitivity, BMI, Liking, and Consumption of Complex Carbohydrate Based Foods
Authors: Low Julia Y.Q. , Lacy Kathleen E. , McBride Robert L. , Keast Russell S.J.
Published: July 2018

Recent work suggests that humans may perceive complex carbohydrates and that their sensitivity to simple carbohydrates (i.e., glucose and sucrose) is independent from tasting complex carbohydrates. The aim of this study was to confirm whether humans could sense complex carbohydrates from a range of concentration levels; and if their oral sensitivity to complex carbohydrate relates to their BMI, liking, and consumption of complex carbohydrate‐based foods using a large sample group of adults. Participants’ (n = 92 females, age 23.7 ± 0.5 yr [range, 19 to 47 yr]) oral sensitivity towards complex carbohydrate (maltodextrin) and sweet taste function (glucose) was assessed by measuring detection threshold and suprathreshold intensity perception (gLMS). Participants were asked to complete an online version of a Food Frequency Questionnaire and a Likes and Dislikes Questionnaire. Hedonic ratings for complex carbohydrate and sweet solutions, as well as for a range of complex carbohydrate and sweet prototypical foods, were also measured. Consistent with previous findings, there was large interindividual variation in detection and intensity measures for maltodextrin and glucose. No significant associations were found between oral complex carbohydrate sensitivity, Body Mass Index (BMI), and frequency of consumption of complex carbohydrate‐based foods measured. Similarly, no differences were observed between liking of complex carbohydrates, BMI, and food intake. All in, these results from a large sample group further support the proposition that complex carbohydrates are not invisible to the human palate, and can be sensed in the oral cavity even at low concentration levels.
New RANZCR clinical radiology written report guidelines
Authors: Pool Felicity Jane , Siemienowicz Miranda Lynette
Published: July 2018

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) Radiology Written Report Guideline was first issued in 2011. A survey‐based consultation of clinical radiology members of the college in 2015 found that the vast majority of 235 respondents supported all components of the guideline. Since the original guideline was developed, considerable new research has been published about radiology reporting, particularly regarding structured/template reports. In 2016/17 a RANZCR working group used the consultation results, stakeholder feedback and recent research to develop revised guidelines. This article outlines the consultation survey results and guideline revision process as well as some of the supporting evidence from the literature.
Accumulation of NO2‐cobalamin in nutrient‐stressed ammonia‐oxidizing archaea and in the oxygen deficient zone of the eastern tropical North Pacific
Authors: Heal Katherine R. , Qin Wei , Amin Shady A. , Devol Allan H. , Moffett James W. , Armbrust E. Virginia , Stahl David A. , Ingalls Anitra E.
Published: July 2018

Cobalamin (vitamin B12) is a precious resource in natural systems that is produced by select prokaryotes and required by a broad range of organisms. In this way, the production of cobalamin reinforces numerous microbial interdependencies. Here we report the accumulation of an unusual form of cobalamin, nitrocobalamin (NO2‐cobalamin), in a marine oxygen deficient zone (ODZ), isolates of ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA), and an anaerobic ammonium‐oxidizing (anammox) bacteria enriched bioreactor. Low oxygen waters were enriched in NO2‐cobalamin, and AOA isolates experiencing ammonia or copper stress produced more NO2‐cobalamin, though there is wide strain‐to‐strain and batch‐to‐batch variability. NO2‐cobalamin has no known biochemical role. We hypothesize that AOA and anammox bacteria are a source of marine NO2‐cobalamin in the environment via a reactive nitrogen intermediate. These findings suggest connections between cobalamin forms and nitrogen transformations, physiological stress and ocean deoxygenation.
ddPCR applied on archived Continuous Plankton Recorder samples reveals long‐term occurrence of class 1 integrons and a sulphonamide resistance gene in marine plankton communities
Authors: Di Cesare Andrea , Petrin Sara , Fontaneto Diego , Losasso Carmen , Eckert Ester M. , Tassistro Giovanni , Borello Alessio , Ricci Antonia , Wilson William H. , Pruzzo Carla , Vezzulli Luigi
Published: July 2018

Antibiotic resistance is a rising threat for human health. Although in clinical settings and terrestrial environments the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria is well documented, their dissemination and spread in the marine environment, covering almost two‐thirds of the Earth's surface, is still poorly understood. In this study, the presence and abundance of sulphonamide resistance gene (sul2) and class 1 integron‐integrase gene (intI1), used as markers for the occurrence and spread of antibiotic resistance genes since the beginning of the antibiotic era, were investigated. Twenty‐nine archived formalin‐fixed samples, collected by the Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) survey in the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea from 1970 to 2011, were analysed using Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) applied for the first time on CPR samples. The two marker genes were present in a large fraction of the samples (48% for sul2 and 76% for intI1). In contrast, results from Real‐Time PCR performed on the same samples greatly underestimate their occurrence (21% for sul2 and 52% for intI1). Overall, besides providing successful use of ddPCR for the molecular analysis of CPR samples, this study reveals long‐term occurrence and spread of sul2 gene and class 1 integrons in the plankton‐associated bacterial communities in the ocean.
Alcohol dependence and very high risk level of alcohol consumption: a life‐threatening and debilitating disease
Authors: Rehm Jürgen , Guiraud Julien , Poulnais Roch , Shield Kevin D.
Published: July 2018

Women and men with alcohol dependence and very high risk drinking level (VHRDL; defined as drinking >60 or 100 g of ethanol per day, respectively) experience severe health consequences; however, data on the number of these individuals and their health risks are limited. This study estimated (1) the prevalence of VHRDL in 13 European Union (EU) countries among people 15–65 years of age, (2) the risk of disease and injury occurrence associated with VHRDL, (3) the proportion of deaths in nine EU countries attributable to VHRDL and (4) the life expectancy of people in France with VHRDL. Prevalence estimates of VHRDL were based on data obtained from clinical trials and the Global Information System on Alcohol and Health. The risk of disease and injury occurrence was estimated using microsimulations. Population‐attributable fractions (PAFs) were estimated using a Levin‐based methodology. The estimated prevalence of VHRDL in the 13 EU countries examined was 0.74–0.85 percent, with a disease and injury occurrence risk of 13.5 per 100 people with VHRDL per year. For the nine EU countries examined, VHRDL caused 53.6 percent of all liver cirrhosis, 43.8 percent of all pancreatitis and 41.1 percent of oral cavity and pharyngeal cancers (all other PAFs were below 30 percent). Applying these PAFs to French mortality data resulted in a life expectancy of 47–61 years for people with VHRDL—21–35 years less than the general population. These results indicate that the health burdens of VHRDL are potentially large, and interventions targeting VHRDL should be considered when formulating public health policies.
Comparison of three measurement models of discounting among individuals with methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Yoon Jin H. , Weaver Matthew T. , De La Garza Richard , Suchting Robert , Nerumalla Chandra S. , Omar Yasmine , Brown Gregory S. , Haliwa Ilana , Newton Thomas F.
Published: July 2018

Background and Objectives

Delay discounting is associated with numerous clinically significant aspects of substance use disorders (SUDs). Recent studies have demonstrated that different models for assessing discounting may result in disparate conclusions. The current study compared two discounting tasks: money now versus money later (M‐M) and methamphetamine now versus money later (MA‐M) among non‐treatment seeking individuals (N = 59) with methamphetamine use disorder (MAUD). Results from each task were assessed using three different models for assessing delay discounting.

Methods

Discounting data were fit to three models of discounting, log k using Mazur's hyperbolic formula, area under the curve (AUC), and an alternative AUC model in which the delay values have been log transformed (AUClog).

Results

For both discounting tasks, the distribution of model‐related outcomes were normally distributed when using log k and AUClog, but skewed for AUC. Discounting in the MA‐M task was significantly greater compared to the M‐M task when using log k and AUClog but not AUC.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, the current study is the first to report significantly greater discounting in a MA‐M relative to M‐M discounting task among individuals with MAUD, an outcome consistent with other psychomotor stimulants and drugs of abuse.

Scientific Significance

The differential results observed across the three discounting models reaffirm potential issues with AUC noted in recent studies and highlight that researchers must be cautious when deciding on their final model of discounting. (Am J Addict 2018;27:425–432)
Comparative effectiveness of management options for patients with small renal masses: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Alam Ridwan , Patel Hiten D. , Osumah Tijani , Srivastava Arnav , Gorin Michael A. , Johnson Michael H. , Trock Bruce J. , Chang Peter , Wagner Andrew A. , McKiernan James M. , Allaf Mohamad E. , Pierorazio Phillip M.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To explore the comparative effectiveness of partial nephrectomy (PN), radical nephrectomy (RN), ablative therapies (ablation) and active surveillance (AS) for small renal masses (SRMs; tumour diameter ≤4.0 cm) in the domains of survival, renal function and quality of life (QoL) using the prospectively maintained Delayed Intervention and Surveillance for Small Renal Masses (DISSRM) Registry.

Patients and Methods

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated from creatinine values to determine renal function. QoL was measured using the Short Form 12 (SF‐12) questionnaire. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression were used for survival analysis. The mixed‐effects model was used for renal function and QoL analysis.

Results

Of 638 patients, 231 (36.2%) chose PN, 41 (6.4%) RN, 27 (4.2%) ablation and 339 (53.1%) AS. Cancer‐specific survival at 7 years was 98.8% in PN patients and 100% in all other groups. Overall survival (OS) at 7 years was 87.9%, 90.2%, 83.5% and 66.1% in PN, RN, ablation and AS patients, respectively. The OS rate was significantly worse in the AS group than other groups and likely attributable to older age and increased comorbidities. The eGFR was lowest in RN patients but comparable in all other groups. QoL was lowest in AS patients due to lower physical health scores, but mental health scores were similar in all groups.

Conclusions

With excellent oncological outcomes in all groups, nephron‐sparing approaches, like PN and ablation, are preferred over RN when intervention is indicated for SRMs. AS is a reasonable option for select patients, given the comparable oncological and mental health outcomes.
Exploring the heterogeneity of MS lesions using positron emission tomography: a reappraisal of their contribution to disability
Authors: Stankoff Bruno , Poirion Emilie , Tonietto Matteo , Bodini Benedetta
Published: July 2018

The biological mechanisms driving disability worsening in multiple sclerosis (MS) are only partly understood. Monitoring changes in lesion load on MRI has a limited predictive value on the progression of clinical disability, and there is an essential need for novel imaging markers specific for the main candidate mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration which include failing myelin repair, innate immune cell activation and gray matter neuronal damage. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is an imaging technology based on the injection of radiotracers directed against specific molecular targets, which has recently allowed the selective quantification in‐vivo of the key biological mechanisms relevant to MS pathophysiology. Pilot PET studies performed in patients with all forms of MS allowed to revisit the contribution of MS lesions to disability worsening and showed that the evolution of lesions toward chronic activation, together with their remyelination profile were relevant predictors of disability worsening. PET offers the opportunity to bridge a critical gap between neuropathology and in‐vivo imaging. This technique provides an original approach to disentangle some of the most relevant pathological components driving MS progression, to follow‐up their temporal evolution, to investigate their clinical relevance and to evaluate novel therapeutics aimed to prevent disease progression.
Professions and the Social Order: Some Lessons from Burkina Faso?
Authors: Sawadogo Natéwindé , Dingwall Robert
Published: July 2018

The study of professions has been dominated by Anglo‐American models, with their focus on a small group of legally licensed occupations. The field has recently shifted, mainly through studies of European experience, to a wider examination of the social management of expert workers. Very little has been written about developments in Africa and their implications for the way in which we might think about professions. This paper presents a case study of the role and practices of the medical profession in Burkina Faso, which has a relatively open market for the supply of healing services and limited regulation of the suppliers, whether physicians or traditional practitioners. The study returns to classic questions about the extent to which practice is shaped by the nature of occupational niches within the division of labor or to the development of a distinctive moral character among the workers within that niche.
Altered editing level of microRNAs is a potential biomarker in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Maemura Keita , Watanabe Kousuke , Ando Takahiro , Hiyama Noriko , Sakatani Toshio , Amano Yosuke , Kage Hidenori , Nakajima Jun , Yatomi Yutaka , Nagase Takahide , Takai Daiya
Published: July 2018

Adenosine‐to‐inosine (A‐to‐I) microRNA editing is associated with tumor phenotypes in various cancer types. Recent analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset have shown several microRNAs that undergo A‐to‐I editing in human cancers, some of which have been reported to be associated with prognosis. Herein, we examined published small RNA deep sequencing data of 74 cases of lung adenocarcinoma (AD) and the corresponding normal counterpart (NC) specimen in silico in order to identify A‐to‐I microRNA editing events. Editing levels of miR‐379‐5p, miR‐99a‐5p, and miR‐497‐5p were lower in AD than in NC and, in a large number of cases, the editing level of miR‐200b‐3p was higher in AD than in NC. Difference in the editing level between AD and NC was largest for miR‐99a‐5p. Then, we examined the editing level of miR‐99a‐5p in 50 surgically resected lung adenocarcinoma cases at our institution by a conventional sequence‐based method, and its association with clinical outcomes. The editing level of miR‐99a‐5p was significantly lower in 19 cases of AD (38%) than in corresponding NC. These cases showed a shorter overall survival as assessed using the log‐rank test (P = .047). This trend was consistent with previous analyses of TCGA dataset. The altered editing level of microRNAs in lung adenocarcinoma could serve as a potential biomarker.
A protocol for early childhood caries diagnosis and risk assessment
Authors: Evans Robin Wendell , Feldens Carlos Alberto , Phantunvanit Prathip
Published: July 2018

The global Early Childhood Caries (ECC) burden is of concern to the World Health Organisation (WHO), but the quantification of this burden and risk is unclear, partly due to difficulties in accessing young children for population surveys and partly due to diagnostic criteria for ECC experience. The WHO criterion for caries diagnosis is the late stage event of dentine cavitation. Earlier stages of the caries lesion are clinically detectable and should be registered earlier in the life of children and arrested/remineralized before lesions progress to the cavitation stage. A protocol for ECC diagnosis is proposed to guide those engaged in clinical dentistry in their characterization of the ECC lesion. As management of early lesions is a critical step to reduce risk of their progression to later stage lesions, a practical method for assessing ECC risk is proposed also. Risk assessment is very important because it determines (a) urgency for interventions aimed to arrest lesion progression; (b) the frequency of such interventions and (c) the need to enhance the primary prevention of ECC. The guidelines are set out separately for ECC diagnosis for ongoing clinical care and for epidemiologic purposes. Similarly, guidelines are set out for ECC risk assessment and ongoing monitoring.
The impact of a reduction in fluoride concentration in the Malaysian water supply on the prevalence of fluorosis and dental caries
Authors: Mohd Nor Nor Azlida , Chadwick Barbara L. , Farnell Damian J. J. , Chestnutt Ivor Gordon
Published: July 2018

Objective

To assess the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis and caries among Malaysian children following the reduction in fluoride concentration from 0.7 to 0.5 parts per million (ppm) in the public water supply.

Methods

This study involved lifelong residents aged 9‐ and 12‐year‐olds in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas in Malaysia (n = 1155). In the fluoridated area, children aged 12 years and 9 years were exposed to 0.7 and 0.5 ppm, respectively, at the times when maxillary central incisors developed. Standardized photographs of maxillary central incisors were blind scored for fluorosis using Dean's criteria. Dental caries was examined using ICDAS‐II criteria.

Results

The prevalence of fluorosis (Dean's score ≥ 2) among children in the fluoridated area (35.7%, 95% CI: 31.9%‐39.6%) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than children in the nonfluoridated area (5.5%, 95% CI: 3.6%‐7.4%). Of those in the fluoridated area, the prevalence of fluorosis decreased from 38.4% (95% CI: 33.1%‐44.3%) for 12‐year‐olds to 31.9% (95% CI: 27.6%‐38.2%) for 9‐year‐olds, although this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.139). The mean caries experience in the permanent dentition was significantly lower in the fluoridated area than in the nonfluoridated area for both age groups (P < 0.05). In the multivariate models, the difference in the differences of caries experience between fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas remained statistically significant. This suggests that caries‐preventive effect is still maintained at 0.5 ppm.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that the change in fluoride level from 0.7 to 0.5 ppm has reduced fluorosis and maintains a caries‐preventive effect. Although there is a reduction in fluorosis prevalence, the difference was not statistically significant.
What about the fathers? The presence and absence of the father in social work practice in England, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden—A comparative study
Authors: Nygren Karina , Walsh Julie , Ellingsen Ingunn T. , Christie Alastair
Published: July 2018

Within Northern Europe, gendered roles and responsibilities within the family have been challenged through an emergence of different family forms, increasing cultural diversity, and progressive developments in welfare policies. To varying degrees, welfare policies in different countries support a dual‐earner model and encourage men to be more active as fathers by reinforcing statutory rights and responsibilities. In child welfare practice, there has traditionally been a strong emphasis on the mother as primary carer for the child; the father has been less visible. This paper explores, in four national welfare contexts, how child welfare social workers include fathers in practice decisions. Data were collected using focus group interviews with social workers from England, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden. Similarities and differences emerge in relation to services and the focus of social work assessments. However, overall, the research suggests that despite gains in policy and legislation that promote gender equality, fathers remain largely absent in child welfare practice decisions about the parenting of their children. From the research, we raise questions for social work practice and the development of welfare policies.
Assessment of vertical ridge augmentation and labial prominence using buccal versus palatal approaches for maxillary segmental sandwich osteotomy (inlay technique): A randomized clinical trial
Authors: El Hadidy Mona Samy , Mounir Mohamed , Abou‐Elfetouh Adel , Barakat Ahmed
Published: July 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the final vertical gain at the deficient anterior maxillary alveolar ridges using buccal versus palatal approaches for maxillary segmental sandwich osteotomy (inlay technique). This is a single‐institutional randomized comparative clinical trial.

Material and Methods

The study population was 16 patients with edentulous anterior maxillary alveolar ridges (40 implant sites). Patients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Both groups received sandwich osteotomy with down fracture of the deficient anterior maxillary alveolar ridge, using buccal approach (control group) and palatal approach (study group) with interpositional alloplastic bone blocks fixed with miniplates. Assessment included the mean percentage of vertical gain at the proposed implant sites after 4 months, taken from cross‐sectional cuts of a cone beam computed tomography.

Results

All cases showed uneventful wound healing and a total of 40 delayed implant placement were done. Results showed that there was no statistical significance between the 2 groups in terms of bone height (P = .43) and labial prominence (P = .5)

Conclusion

Both techniques were successful where the mean percentage of 4 months postoperative vertical bone gain of the control group was 79.9% and that of the study group was 76.5%.
Report from the American Society of Transplantation Psychosocial Community of Practice Adherence Task Force: Real‐world options for promoting adherence in adult recipients
Authors: Myaskovsky Larissa , Jesse Michelle T. , Kuntz Kristin , Leino Abbie D. , Peipert John Devin , Russell Cynthia L. , Spivey Christina A. , Sulejmani Nimisha , Dew Mary Amanda
Published: July 2018

Starting in 2015, the American Society of Transplantation Psychosocial Community of Practice, with representatives of the Transplant Pharmacy Community of Practice, convened a taskforce to develop a white paper that focused on clinically practical, evidenced‐based interventions that transplant centers could implement to increase adherence to medication and behavioral recommendations in adult solid organ transplant recipients. The group focused on what centers could do in their daily routines to implement best practices to increase adherence in adult transplant recipients. We developed a list of strategies using available resources, clinically feasible methods of screening and tracking adherence, and activities that ultimately empower patients to improve their own self‐management. We limited the target population to adults because they predominate the research, and because adherence issues differ in pediatric patients, given the necessary involvement of parents/guardians. We also examined broader multilevel areas for intervention including provider and transplant program practices. Ultimately, the task force aims to foster greater recognition, discussion, and solutions required for implementing practical interventions targeted at improving adherence.
A microvenular hemangioma with a rare expression of progesterone receptor immunocreativity and a review of the literature
Authors: Juan Yi‐Chen , Chen Chih‐Jung , Hsiao Cheng‐Hsiang , Chiu Tsu‐Man
Published: July 2018

Microvenular hemangioma (MVH) is a rare benign vascular tumor with a controversial etiology, but hormone receptor alterations might be involved. We report a case of MVH in a 41‐year‐old Taiwanese woman who presented with a 1.5 × 1 cm violaceous plaque on left thigh that had appeared 1 year previously. She had taken oral contraceptives for several years and stopped 1 year prior to presentation. Histologically, the tumor was composed of small and compressed venous structures infiltrating in the dermis and subcutis. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells displayed negative immunoreactivity for human herpesvirus‐8 and positive immunoreactivity for smooth muscle actin and progesterone receptor (PR). Taken together with the patient's medical hormone therapy history and the evidence of PR immunoreactivity, our findings support that progesterone may be associated with the tumorigenesis of MVH.
Linearized solar elastosis of the legs: A novel presentation and review of the literature
Authors: Cheng Judy , Ho Jonathan , Barrett Mary , Chung Hye J. , Lam Christina
Published: July 2018

There exists a spectrum of solar elastotic variants based on the clinical and histopathologic findings. We present here a peculiar case of solar elastosis that is unusual in its anatomic location, relative lack of background actinic damage, and pattern of linearization. Its presentation suggests that other factors in addition to ultraviolet radiation may play a role in the pathogenesis of solar elastosis.
Clinical practice guidelines for peroral endoscopic myotomy
Authors: Inoue Haruhiro , Shiwaku Hironari , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Onimaru Manabu , Kobayashi Yasutoshi , Minami Hitomi , Sato Hiroki , Kitano Seigo , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Omura Nobuo , Murakami Kazunari , Fukami Norio , Fujimoto Kazuma , Tajiri Hisao
Published: July 2018

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a novel clinical technique developed in Japan used to treat esophageal achalasia and esophageal motility disorders. This technique has been rapidly accepted and widely disseminated throughout our clinical practice because of its low invasiveness, technical novelty, and high efficacy. Since the advent of POEM, there have been no clinical guidelines that clearly indicated its standard of care, and these guidelines have been anticipated both nationally and internationally by clinicians who engage in POEM practice. In 2017, to meet these needs, the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society (JGES) launched the guideline committee for POEM. Based on the guideline development process proposed by the Medical Information Network Distribution Service (MINDS), the guideline committee initially created research questions on POEM and conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis on each topic. The clinical research extracted from databases for these clinical questions and the systematic review mainly comprised a few retrospective studies with a small number of participants and short trial periods; hence, the strength of the evidence and recommendations derived from these results was low. Throughout this process, the guideline committee met thrice: once on May 13, 2017, and again on September 17, 2017, to formulate the draft. A consensus meeting was then held on January 14, 2018, in Tokyo to establish the guideline statements and finalize the recommendations using the modified Delphi method. This manuscript presents clinical guidelines regarding current standards of practice and recommendations in terms of the nine chief topics in POEM.
Elevated obstructive sleep apnoea risk score is associated with poor healing of diabetic foot ulcers: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Maltese G. , Fountoulakis N. , Drakatos P. , Shah D. , Patel K. , Sharma A. , Thomas S. , Pengo M. F. , Karalliedde J.
Published: July 2018

Aims

To assess the prevalence of risk factors for obstructive sleep apnoea in people with diabetic foot ulcers and to determine whether this risk predicts diabetic foot ulcer healing.

Methods

We studied 94 consecutive people (69% men) with diabetic foot ulcers (Type 2 diabetes, n=66, Type 1 diabetes, n=28) attending a university hospital foot unit. All participants were screened for obstructive sleep apnoea using the STOP‐BANG questionnaire, with a score ≥4 identifying high risk of obstructive sleep apnoea. The primary outcome was poor diabetic foot ulcer healing, defined as diabetic foot ulcer recurrence (diabetic foot ulcers which healed and re‐ulcerated in same anatomical position) and/or diabetic foot ulcer persistence (no evidence of healing on clinical examination). All participants were evaluated at 12 months.

Results

Of the 94 participants, 60 (64%) had a STOP‐BANG score ≥4. Over 12 months, 27 participants with a score ≥4 had poor diabetic foot ulcer healing as compared to seven with a score <4 (45% vs 20.5%; P=0.025). A STOP‐BANG score ≥4 significantly increased the relative risk of poor healing more than twofold, independently of other risk factors in multivariable analyses.

Conclusions

There is a high prevalence of features and risk of obstructive sleep apnoea in people with diabetic foot ulcers. A STOP‐BANG score ≥4 predicts poor diabetic foot ulcer healing. Obstructive sleep apnoea may be a potential, modifiable risk factor/treatment target to improve diabetic foot ulcer outcomes.
The role of functional thyroid capacity in pituitary thyroid feedback regulation
Authors: Hoermann Rudolf , Midgley John E. M. , Larisch Rolf , Dietrich Johannes W.
Published: July 2018

Background

Thyroid feedback regulation and equilibria between thyroid hormones differ in the presence or absence of a functioning thyroid remnant.

Materials and Methods

This study examines the relationship between the sensitivity of TSH feedback and thyroid capacity in untreated patients with thyroid autoimmune disease (n = 86) and healthy controls (n = 271). Functional capacity was estimated at maximum TSH stimulation, and pituitary TSH response was FT4‐standardised with two established indices, the TSH index and the thyrotroph thyroid hormone resistance index.

Results

The two indices correlated inversely with thyroid volume and functional thyroid capacity. Relationships were shifted upwards in patients with thyroid autoimmune disease. This positioned patients with thyroid autoimmune disease predominantly at the lower capacity range and upper part of TSH index. The relationship was modulated by serum FT3 concentrations, shifting 0.19 [95%CI: 0.12, 0.26] mIU/L per pmol FT3 increase. FT3 correlated with TSH index in total group ( = 0.09, P = 0.009) and both subgroups. FT3 levels were maintained despite a substantial capacity loss by progressively increasing conversion rates of T3 from T4, only collapsing at capacities below <1.5 pmol/s.

Conclusion

Functional thyroid capacity and preferential T3 generation are essential elements in adjusting the sensitivity of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐thyroid feedback control and balancing system equilibria. This suggests that the indirect regulatory role of glandular T3 co‐secretion exceeds its quantitative contribution to the thyroid hormone pool. Implications for clinical practice extend to the diagnostic use of TSH in patients with impaired thyroid reserve.
TO “VAPE” OR SMOKE? EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE ON ADULT SMOKERS
Authors: Marti Joachim , Buckell John , Maclean Johanna Catherine , Sindelar Jody
Published: July 2018

A growing share of the U.S. population uses e‐cigarettes but the optimal regulation of these controversial products remains an open question. We conduct a discrete choice experiment to investigate how adult tobacco cigarette smokers' demand for e‐cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes varies by four attributes: (1) whether e‐cigarettes are considered healthier than tobacco cigarettes, (2) the effectiveness of e‐cigarettes as a cessation device, (3) bans on use in public places, and (4) price. We find that adult smokers' demand for e‐cigarettes is motivated more by health concerns than by the desire to avoid smoking bans or higher prices. (JEL C35, I12, I18)
Sovereign credit ratings and central banks: Why do analysts pay attention to institutions?
Authors: Bodea Cristina , Hicks Raymond
Published: July 2018

This paper studies the effect of the governance of modern central banks on the ratings assigned by the credit rating agencies Standard and Poor's and Moody's. Until recently, the rating process was not public. Even still, the factors or precise methodologies used by the agencies remain uncertain and analyst judgment remains important. We argue that, given uncertainty over the future paths of countries, the quality of the central bank governance serves as a useful heuristic for a stable and favorable country trajectory. In particular, the central bank's independence signals that the government is committed to general macroeconomic stability, including debt repayment. Additionally, central bank transparency clarifies who is the principal of the bank and provides information about how the central bank understands the economy and monetary policy. Finally, tensions between the central bank and the government, as reflected by irregular turnover of central bank governors, raise doubts about countries’ future prospects. Empirically, we use a variety of models, including mediation analysis, to ensure that the effect we identify stems from the central bank governance itself, as a heuristic for the future paths of countries, and not the central bank's direct contribution to the macroeconomy, as reflected in the available data.
Mapping of fine‐scale rat prefrontal cortex connections: Evidence for detailed ordering of inputs and outputs connecting the temporal cortex and sensory‐motor regions
Authors: Bedwell Stacey A. , Tinsley Chris J.
Published: July 2018

Cerebral cortex structure is crucially important for cortical organization and function. The organization of prefrontal cortex (PFC) is controversial and here we seek to understand it more clearly through the study of fine‐scale cortical connections. To determine the ordering of microscale input and output connections in the rat PFC, we injected small volumes (20–30 nl) of anterograde (Fluro‐Ruby) and retrograde (Fluoro‐Gold) neuroanatomical tracers into PFC. These injections revealed several connected regions of the brain but here we report findings restricted to PFC to temporal cortex and sensory‐motor cortex pathways. In agreement with previous studies incorporating larger injection volumes we found that smaller injection volumes revealed a more detailed, fine‐scale ordering of both prefrontal inputs and output connections to the temporal cortex and sensory‐motor cortex regions. These findings are also supported by labelling observed from additional tracer injections made into corresponding regions of temporal cortex. The topography observed reflected the ordering seen at a larger level (i.e., with larger injection volumes) but there were some differences in the topography, such as in relation to the direction of ordering. In agreement with earlier work, we found that fine‐scale input and output connections were not always aligned with respect to one another. These results provide evidence for topographically arranged inputs and outputs in two distinct PFC pathways, along with evidence for different connectional patterns within the same pathways. Based on theories of functional connectivity, these findings provide evidence for prefrontal cortical regions residing within networks that contribute to different cognitive functions.
Zolpidem ameliorates motor impairments in the unilaterally 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rat
Authors: Assini Robert , Abercrombie Elizabeth D.
Published: July 2018

Nuclei within the basal ganglia—such as the globus pallidus external segment, subthalamic nucleus, and substantia nigra pars reticulata—have been shown to exhibit synchronous bursting activity entrained to excessive cortical beta oscillations following dopamine depletion. Zolpidem binds to GABAA receptors with selectivity for those expressing the α1 subunit, potentiating inhibitory postsynaptic currents and increasing the time decay of channel opening. Interestingly, zolpidem‐sensitive nuclei within the basal ganglia circuitry are also those that have been shown to exhibit hyperexcitation in a dopamine‐depleted state. We hypothesized that a drug with selectivity for these nuclei may improve motor impairments associated with Parkinson's disease. In order to determine the threshold dose at which zolpidem might encumber motor behavior, a dose‐response experiment was performed in intact rats using rotarod. Next, we tested whether subthreshold doses (0.1, 0.25, 0.5 mg/kg; i.p.) of zolpidem improved volitional motor behavior/coordination using the rotarod balance beam and cylinder/paw preference tests in unilaterally 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rats. It was found that 0.1 mg/kg zolpidem significantly improved rotarod performance and significantly reduced forelimb use asymmetry compared to undrugged post‐lesion conditions. Here, we present the first translational evidence for a role of zolpidem‐sensitive GABAA receptors in the treatment of PD motor symptoms. Our data show that zolpidem improves both motor coordination and volitional forelimb use in the unilateral 6‐hydroxydopamine lesion model of PD, and thus suggest that zolpidem‐sensitive GABAA receptors may represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
The surface area of zeolite‐amended soils exceeds the sum of the inherent surface areas of soil and zeolite
Authors: Jozefaciuk G. , Szatanik‐Kloc A. , Ambrozewicz‐Nita A.
Published: July 2018

Zeolites have an extremely large surface area and porosity and are frequently applied to soils to increase their sorption properties. However, behaviour of the surface properties of zeolite‐amended soil has not been studied in detail. Seven mineral soils were mixed with various amounts of a zeolitic tuff and subjected to three cycles of wetting–drying. Water vapour adsorption isotherms were measured for these mixtures. Simulated isotherms were also calculated from isotherms of the initial materials assuming additivity of the adsorption. Surface areas derived from measured isotherms exceeded those derived from the simulations. The difference in surface area increased with the decrease in soil pH, which resulted from acidic weathering of the zeolite under soil conditions.

Highlights

Changes of surface area in zeolite‐amended soil were studied.

Surface area increased more than that contributed by the added zeolite.

Lower soil pH induced a greater increase in surface area.

The increase in surface area resulted from fast weathering of the zeolite.
Assessing the skin barrier via corneocyte morphometry
Authors: Riethmüller Christoph
Published: July 2018

The skin barrier is an inevitable physiological function. Virtually all skin diseases exhibit an altered barrier. Because of its diversity, this vital function cannot be assessed adequately by a single method. Preference in both pharmaceutical and cosmetic testing is given to noninvasive assays, mostly macroscopic methods like optical or electrical or mechanical measurements. The present review focuses on advances in ultrastructural assays based on corneocytes obtained via tape stripping—highlighting candidates for automated processing. Among these are electron microscopic (EM) and atomic force microscopic (AFM) analyses, which are discussed with respect to clinical signs and skin hydration, as assessed by Raman spectroscopy or by concentration of natural moisturizing factor.
Noninvasive analysis and minimally invasive in vivo experimental challenges of the skin barrier
Authors: van Erp Piet E. J. , Peppelman Malou , Falcone Denise
Published: July 2018

In this review, we aim to give a concise and selective overview of noninvasive biophysical analysis techniques for skin barrier analysis (transepidermal water loss, electrical methods, confocal Raman microspectroscopy, sebumeter, reflectance spectrophotometry, tristimulus colorimetry, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy), including advantages and limitations. Rather than giving an exhaustive description of the many techniques currently available, we show the usefulness of a representative selection of techniques in the functional and morphological evaluation of the skin barrier. Furthermore, we introduce human minimally invasive skin challenging models as a means to study the mechanisms regulating skin homoeostasis and disease and subsequently show how biophysical analysis techniques can be combined with these in vivo skin challenging models in the functional and morphological evaluation of the skin barrier in healthy human skin. We are convinced that the widespread application of biophysical analysis techniques in dermatological practice and in cosmetic sciences will prove invaluable in offering personalized and noninvasive skin treatment solutions. Furthermore, combining the human in vivo challenging models with these novel noninvasive techniques will provide valuable methodology and tools for detailed characterization of the skin barrier in health and disease.
Rapamycin ameliorates psoriasis by regulating the expression and methylation levels of tropomyosin viaERK1/2 andmTORpathways in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Gao Minhong , Si Xiaoqing
Published: July 2018

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease, affecting more than millions of people in the world. Recently, themTORinhibitor rapamycin (RAPA) was reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Haematoxylin and eosin staining was used to examine the effects ofRAPAon inflammatory level of lesional tissues from patients with psoriasis and animal models. Quantitative real‐timePCR, immunohistochemistry and western blot assay were performed to assess the effects ofRAPAon tropomyosins (TPMs) expression in patients with psoriasis, cell models and animal models. Phalloidin staining was used to assess theRAPAeffects on cell skeleton. The effects ofRAPAon cell proliferation and cell cycle were detected byCCK‐8 assay, EdU staining and flow cytometry. Methylation status ofTPMs was analysed by methylation‐specificPCR. The expression ofTPM1 andTPM2 was significantly downregulated, while their methylation level was obviously higher in the lesional tissues, cell models and animal models of psoriasis. After treated withRAPA, the expression and methylation levels ofTPMs were all restored in the cell models and animal models of psoriasis.RAPAinhibited cell proliferation and decreased the ratio of S phase cell in Hacat or human epidermal keratinocytes cell models of psoriasis. Finally, the activatedERK1/2 andmTORpathways in the cell model and animal model of psoriasis were suppressed by the treatment ofRAPA.RAPAcould be used as an effective agent for the treatment of psoriasis by decreasing the methylation level ofTPM1 andTPM2 via inhibiting theERK1/2 andmTORsignalling pathways.
Clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction following total hip and knee arthroplasty in patients with inherited bleeding disorders: A 20‐year single‐surgeon cohort
Authors: Anderson J. A. , Mason J. A. , Halliday B.
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Persons with haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders are prone to disabling joint arthropathy frequently requiring arthroplasty for end‐stage joint disease. Higher complication rates and more modest post‐operative functional outcomes have previously been described.

Aim

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction of persons with inherited bleeding disorders (predominantly haemophilia) undergoing total hip and knee replacement.

Methods

Retrospective, single‐centre cohort study with longitudinal assessment of patients with inherited bleeding disorders who underwent total hip and knee replacement over a 20‐year period. Eligible patients were clinically assessed with Harris Hip Score (HHS), Knee Society Score (KSS), pain visual analogue scale (VAS) and a patient satisfaction questionnaire.

Results

Thirty‐one patients (48 joints) met the inclusion criteria. Mean age at surgery was 49.3 years (SD: 13.1, range 21‐75 years) with a mean follow‐up of 9.33 years (1.7‐19.3). The majority (26/31) of patients had haemophilia A, predominantly severe haemophilia A (22/26). Reported pain levels were low, and patient satisfaction was high. Joint‐specific outcome scores were “good” to “excellent” in 67% of total hip replacement patients and 92% of total knee replacement patients. A low complication rate was observed, with 2 patients requiring revision surgery and 4 patients requiring re‐operation without implant revision.

Conclusion

Arthroplasty is a reliable procedure in patients with inherited bleeding disorders with end‐stage hip or knee arthropathy. The overall complexity of this group is highlighted, and the need for multidisciplinary care is emphasised.
Developing a generic tool to routinely measure the impact of health libraries
Authors: Ayre Stephen , Brettle Alison , Gilroy Dominic , Knock Douglas , Mitchelmore Rebecca , Pattison Sophie , Smith Susan , Turner Jenny
Published: July 2018

Background

Health libraries contribute to many activities of a health care organisation. Impact assessment needs to capture that range of contributions.

Objectives

To develop and pilot a generic impact questionnaire that: (1) could be used routinely across all English NHS libraries; (2) built on previous impact surveys; and (3) was reliable and robust.

Methods

This collaborative project involved: (1) literature search; (2) analysis of current best practice and baseline survey of use of current tools and requirements; (3) drafting and piloting the questionnaire; and (4) analysis of the results, revision and plans for roll out.

Findings

The framework selected was the International Standard Methods And Procedures For Assessing The Impact Of Libraries (ISO 16439). The baseline survey (n = 136 library managers) showed that existing tools were not used, and impact assessment was variable. The generic questionnaire developed used a Critical Incident Technique. Analysis of the findings (n = 214 health staff and students), plus comparisons with previous impact studies indicated that the questionnaire should capture the impact for all types of health libraries.

Conclusions

The collaborative project successfully piloted a generic impact questionnaire that, subject to further validation, should apply to many types of health library and information services.