bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of intraocular lens scleral fixation with the friction knot technique
Authors: Aaltonen Petri , Oskala Pertti , Immonen Ilkka
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To examine the clinical outcomes of intraocular lens (IOL) scleral fixation with the friction knot technique.

Methods

Retrospective case series of 152 eyes of 152 patients with inadequate capsular bag support operated with the friction knot IOL scleral fixation technique by a single surgeon. The fixated IOLs were one‐piece or three‐piece models all with open loop haptics. Main outcome measures were change in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and postoperative complications.

Results

The mean follow‐up time was 11.7 months (median 4.9, range 0.7–64.8). The mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution CDVA improved from preoperative 0.77 ± 0.73 (Snellen 20/118 ± 7.3 lines) to 0.44 ± 0.56 (Snellen 20/55 ± 5.6 lines) at the final visit (p < 0.001). The main postoperative complications were ocular hypertension (30.3%), uveitis–glaucoma–hyphaema syndrome (12.5%; UGHS), vitreous haemorrhage (11.2%) and retinal detachment (8.6%). Two (1.3%) cases of suture breakage were seen. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, age under 60 years [hazard ratio (HR) = 5.41; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.95–15.01] and scleral fixated one‐piece IOL (HR = 4.23; 95% CI 1.44–12.44) were found as significant independent risk factors for developing new UGHS.

Conclusion

The friction knot technique provides a firm scleral fixation. Scleral fixation may successfully be utilized in dislocated three‐piece IOLs with loop haptics. We recommend avoiding scleral fixation of one‐piece IOLs in young patients due to a high risk of UGHS.
Physicians’ views on patient participation in choice of oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation—a qualitative study
Authors: Aarnio Emma , Huupponen Risto , Hämeen‐Anttila Katri , Merikoski Merja , Puhakka Jaana , Korhonen Maarit J.
Published: October 2018

Direct oral anticoagulants provide an alternative to vitamin K antagonists for the anticoagulation therapy in atrial fibrillation (AF). The availability of several treatment options with different attributes makes shared decision‐making appropriate for the choice of anticoagulation therapy. The aim of this study was to understand how physicians choose an oral anticoagulant (OAC) for patients with AF and how physicians view patients’ participation in this decision. Semi‐structured interviews with 17 Finnish physicians (eight general practitioners and nine specialists) working in the public sector were conducted. An interview guide on experience, prescribing and opinions about oral anticoagulants was developed based on previous literature. The data were thematically analysed using deductive and inductive approaches. Based on the interviews, patient's opinion was the most influential factor in decision‐making when there were no clinical factors limiting the choice between OACs. Of patient's preferences, the most important was the attitude towards co‐payments of OACs. Patients’ opinions on monitoring of treatment, dosing and antidote availability were also mentioned by the interviewees. The choice of an OAC in AF was patient‐centred as all interviewees expressed that patient's opinion affects the choice.
CEO letters: Social license to operate and community involvement in the mining industry
Authors: de‐Miguel‐Molina Blanca , Chirivella‐González Vicente , García‐Ortega Beatriz
Published: October 2018

This paper aims to analyse how the discourse of CEO letters and other factors influence community involvement and Social Licence to Operate (SLO) in the mining industry. The analysis is based on qualitative information disclosed in sustainability reports and CEO letters from 32 mining firms. Content analysis was undertaken to obtain data for the study, and then a regression analysis and a multiple correspondence analysis were used to test the hypotheses defined in the study. The results indicate that the CEO discourse influences how a firm expresses the importance of gaining its SLO, the philanthropic activities in which companies become involved and the destinations of the investments in the communities in which they operate. The results also show changes in the discourse between 2011 and 2015, which are, in part, explained by the difficult situation experienced by the sector during this period. The paper contributes to the Corporate Social Responsibility literature by integrating different theories from this field into the SLO framework. The analysis carried out and the results obtained are useful for both CEOs and Sustainability Managers, especially in managing their relationships with the communities where they operate or intend to operate.
Tamoxifen ameliorates obstructive nephropathy through Src and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway
Authors: Kim Chang Seong , Kim In Jin , Choi Joon Seok , Bae Eun Hui , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Soo Wan
Published: October 2018

Background information

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis is the end‐point of chronic kidney diseases. Tamoxifen, a selective oestrogen receptor (ER) modulator, attenuates renal fibrosis, by regulating the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β/Smad signalling. Src and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways play critical roles in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis. However, the activation of the non‐canonical TGF‐β signalling in renal fibrosis after treatment with tamoxifen remains unclear. Renal fibrosis was induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in rats. Tamoxifen was orally administered after UUO. Additionally, HK‐2 cells were treated with tamoxifen in the presence or absence of TGF‐β1. The selective ER down‐regulator ICI and ER‐α silencing were used to confirm the involvement of ER‐α on the effect of tamoxifen on TGF‐β1‐stimulated fibrosis in HK‐2 cells.

Results

Tamoxifen treatment ameliorated UUO‐induced renal fibrosis as shown by decreased expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA), fibronectin and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). The phosphorylation of Src, PI3K, Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p70S6K significantly decreased in UUO kidneys from tamoxifen‐treated animals. Tamoxifen dose‐dependently suppressed the TGF‐β1‐induced expression of α‐SMA and CTGF, and phosphorylation of Src, PI3K, Akt, mTOR and p70S6K in HK‐2 cells. These anti‐fibrotic effects were reversed by treatment with ICI and silencing of ER‐α. Moreover, inhibition of the PI3K/Akt and mTOR/p70S6K pathways was observed in HK‐2 cells co‐treated with PP1 (a Src kinase inhibitor) and tamoxifen.

Conclusions

The anti‐fibrotic effects of tamoxifen are associated with the suppression of Src kinase function via ER‐α, followed by inhibition of the PI3K/Akt and mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathways.

Significance

Our findings suggest that tamoxifen is a novel therapeutic option for the prevention and treatment of renal fibrosis.
Immune cells in the tumour: new routes of retinoids for chemoprevention and chemotherapeutics
Authors: Jiang Li , Dong Rong , Ying Meidan , He Qiaojun , Cao Ji , Yang Bo
Published: October 2018

Retinoids, vitamin A and its natural and synthetic analogues have various functions, including being involved in cell proliferation and differentiation and participating in the formation of vertebrate morphology. In addition, they may activate certain tumour suppressor genes that then act as tumour inhibitors. In the past decades, retinoids have been regarded as promising chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive agents; however, their mechanisms are still not fully understood. Immune cells that participate in or are associated with the immune response play vital roles in the initiation and development of many cancers. Interestingly, recent studies have demonstrated that retinoids can also exert various effects on immune cells including macrophages, T cells and dendritic cells in tumour tissues to execute anti‐tumour actions, providing new insights into chemoprevention and chemotherapeutics. In this review, we focus on the effects of retinoids on immune cells in the tumour, which may provide new approaches for antineoplastic strategies.
Biallelic mutations in PMFBP1 cause acephalic spermatozoa
Authors: Sha Yan‐Wei , Wang Xiong , Xu Xiaohui , Ding Lu , Liu Wen‐Sheng , Li Ping , Su Zhi‐Ying , Chen Jing , Mei Li‐Bin , Zheng Liang‐Kai , Wang Hai‐Long , Kong Shuang‐Bo , You Min , Wu Jian‐Feng
Published: October 2018

The majority of men with defects in spermatogenesis remain undiagnosed. Acephalic spermatozoa is one of the diseases causing primary infertility. However, the causes underlying over half of affected cases remain unclear. Here, we report by whole‐exome sequencing the identification of homozygous and compound heterozygous truncating mutations in PMFBP1 of two unrelated individuals with acephalic spermatozoa. PMFBP1 was highly and specifically expressed in human and mouse testis. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining in sperm from a normal control showed that PMFBP1 localizes to the head‐flagella junction region, and the absence of PMFBP1 was confirmed in patients harboring PMFBP1 mutations. In addition, we generated Pmfbp1 knock‐out (KO) mice, which we found recapitulate the acephalic sperm phenotype. Label‐free quantitative proteomic analysis of testicular sperm from Pmfbp1 KO and control mice showed 124 and 35 proteins, respectively, increased or decreased in sperm from KO mice compared to that found in control mice. Gene ontology analysis indicates that the biological process of Golgi vesicle transport was the most highly enriched in differentially expressed proteins, indicating process defects related to Golgi complex function may disturb formation of the head‐neck junction. Collectively, our data indicate that PMFBP1 is necessary for sperm morphology in both humans and mice, and that biallelic truncating mutations in PMFBP1 cause acephalic spermatozoa.
Himalayan Boom Town: Rural–Urban Transformations in Namchi, Sikkim
Authors: McDuie‐Ra Duncan , Chettri Mona
Published: October 2018

Namchi, in the Indian state of Sikkim, is undergoing a building boom that is transforming a small district headquarters into an urban showpiece. Centred on religious theme parks and urban beautification, the boom captures Sikkim's emphasis on tourism as a development strategy. Growth in hydropower and pharmaceutical industries within the state, and infrastructure enabling this growth, seek to reduce dependency on the Indian government and have turned Sikkim into a ‘backyard’ for Indian capital. In contrast, Namchi epitomizes the transition from rural to urban space through tourism‐led growth, creating a ‘front yard’ exhibit which was recently awarded Smart City status despite its small size and relative unimportance. This article explores Namchi's boom by analysing the politics that drive it, the buildings and landscapes that capture its excess, and the town's lived urban spaces. The authors focus on three aspects of Namchi's boom: first, it is crucial for projections of success in Sikkim and aligns urban transformation with a particular vision of development actively promoted by the Chief Minister and ruling party; second, it is not based on resource extraction or agrarian expansion but on funds transferred to cultivate and reward loyalty in this border region; and third, it is drawing migrant workers to the town in large numbers, causing fissures and tensions, and simultaneously creating an emergent, though uneasy, cosmopolitanism.
Technical and vocational education and training in Uganda: A critical analysis
Authors: Okumu Ibrahim Mike , Bbaale Edward
Published: October 2018

This article undertakes a diagnostic study of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sub‐sector in Uganda, with a view to characterizing the sub‐sector and identifying its potential strengths and weakness. We undertook a cross‐sectional pre‐survey of purposively selected key stakeholders in the TVET sub‐sector. We selected performance indicators following their importance in influencing the TVET reform process. Both qualitative and quantitative data was solicited from the stakeholders. Quantitative data was collected through stakeholder‐specific structured questionnaires, whilst qualitative data was collected through desk review and field visits, individual focused interviews and focus group discussions. Our findings indicate that financing and planning constraints have resulted in poor quality equipment, under‐ and ill‐trained staff, limited adoption of a competence‐based education and training (CBET) curriculum, not to mention the supervision inadequacies of TVET institutions. Besides, the limited TVET sub‐sector interaction with the private sector has incapacitated TVET curriculum development to nurture skills demanded by the private sector. Furthermore, backward technology use in the private sector has equally inhibited the success of student attachment programmes. Finally, legal ambiguities have perpetuated a qualification jungle and overlapping curricula.
Identification of candidates for PFO closure in the echocardiography laboratory
Authors: Kerut Edmund Kenneth , Campbell William F. , Hall Michael E. , McMullan Michael R.
Published: October 2018

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is implicated in several pathologic processes, including that of cryptogenic stroke (cCVA). Recent trials identify “high‐risk” PFOs in patients with cCVA as likely to benefit from percutaneous closure. The younger the patient (<60 years old) the more likely a PFO may be attributable to the cCVA. The RoPE Score index helps determine the likelihood that an existing PFO is related to a cCVA. This may help guide the clinician and patient when contemplating percutaneous PFO closure. When evaluating a patient for possible percutaneous closure, one should identify the CVA as a typical ischemic type stroke. In order to “rule‐out” other causes of CVA, imaging of the intracranial arteries, cervical, and aortic arch vessels should be performed. Small vessel disease or a lacunar‐type infarct should be excluded. To rule out atrial fibrillation, prolonged monitoring should be performed. An index has been developed to determine the probability that a PFO is the causative etiology and calculates the risk of recurrence. This may help guide the clinician and patient in the decision for PFO closure. In addition, one should consider a work‐up for a hypercoagulable state. We will obtain an ultrasound of the lower extremities or consider deep pelvic vein thrombosis (prolonged sitting or malignancy). If the closure is to be performed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the Amplatzer PFO Occluder and the GORE Cardioform Septal Occluder for percutaneous closure. These devices are both approved in patients predominately between ages 18 and 60 years with a cCVA due to presumed paradoxical embolism as verified by a neurologist and cardiologist and when other causes of ischemic CVA have been excluded. “High‐risk” PFOs appear to achieve the most potential benefit from percutaneous closure.
Does rTMS reduce depressive symptoms in young people who have not responded to antidepressants?
Authors: Rosenich Emily , Gill Shane , Clarke Patrick , Paterson Tom , Hahn Lisa , Galletly Cherrie
Published: October 2018

Aim

Depression is common in young people, and there is a need for safe, effective treatments. This study examined the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in a sample of young people aged 17 to 25 years.

Methods

This retrospective study included 15 people aged 17 to 25 years referred by their private psychiatrists affiliated with Ramsay Health Care, South Australia Mental Health Services. All patients met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition criteria for treatment‐resistant Major Depressive Disorder. Eleven patients received right unilateral treatment and four patients received bilateral treatment. Patients were assessed at baseline and after treatment.

Results

There was a significant improvement on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (t(14) = 4.71, P < 0.0001); Montgomery‐Åsperg Depression Rating Scale (t(14) = 3.96, P < 0.01) and the Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale (t(14) = 4.13, P < 0.01). There was no difference in response by gender or age. The response rates in these young people did not differ significantly from those of adults aged 25 to 82 years.

Conclusion

This open label, naturalistic study suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is an effective treatment in young adults who have treatment‐resistant depression. Randomized sham‐controlled studies are needed to further investigate the efficacy of this treatment in this age group.
Prognostic significance of genetic biomarkers in isocitrate dehydrogenase‐wild‐type lower‐grade glioma: the need to further stratify this tumor entity – a meta‐analysis
Authors: Vuong H. G. , Tran T. T. K. , Ngo H. T. T. , Pham T. Q. , Nakazawa T. , Fung K.‐M. , Hassell L. , Katoh R. , Kondo T.
Published: October 2018

The clinical outcomes of isocitrate dehydrogenase‐wild‐type (IDH‐wt) lower‐grade glioma (LGG) have been the subject of debate for some time. In this meta‐analysis, we aimed to assess the prognostic values of several known genetic markers (e.g. TERT promoter mutation, H3F3A mutation, CDKN2A loss) in this tumor group. Four electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Virtual Health Library, were searched for relevant articles. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for overall survival were calculated using a random‐effect model weighted by an inverse variance method. A total of 11 studies were finally selected from 2274 articles for meta‐analyses. Several genetic alterations were demonstrated to have a negative impact on prognosis of IDH‐wt LGGs, specifically TERT promoter mutation (HR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.42–2.70), H3F3A mutation (HR, 3.21; 95% CI, 1.86–5.55) and EGFR amplification (HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.02–2.74). However, CDKN loss, ATRX mutation and coexisting gain of chromosome 7/loss of chromosome 10 showed no clinical significance in this glioma entity. Our study results demonstrated that IDH‐wt LGGs are heterogeneous in clinical outcome and not all tumors have a poor prognosis. The presence of TERT promoter mutation, H3F3A mutation and EGFR amplification showed negative prognostic impacts in this tumor entity. These genetic events can be used to better stratify patient outcomes.
Hedge fund leverage: 2002–2017
Authors: Liang Bing , Qiu Liping
Published: October 2018

Using a large panel data set, we investigate the dynamics of hedge fund leverage from 2002 to 2017 and find considerable variations in both time series and cross section. More than 70% of hedge funds use leverage and almost half of the leveraged funds are levered through margin borrowing. On average, hedge funds decreased leverage prior to the beginning of the financial crisis, with leverage remaining below the pre‐crisis levels. We find that the level of leverage and its changes are related to fund characteristics such as age, governance, performance, risk, fees, liquidity, survival, and the birth of a new fund.
Variable weight semantic graph‐based ontology mapping method
Authors: Yang Feng
Published: October 2018

The mapping method that is based on the name and structure of the ontology elements is the strategy used in most mapping methods. Methods using the name often only use the similarity between the individual elements in the ontology to predict the semantic relations between two ontologies, while the latter measure the mapping between two ontologies by means of the structural relations between the elements. The effects of these two kinds of mapping strategies are not ideal. Addressing this issue, the work presented in this paper proposes an ontology mapping approach, in which the ontology element name and structure are combined. It uses the approaches based on linguistics and distance to generate a variable weight semantic graph. On this graph, the similarity of element names and structure are calculated through iterative computation. In the process of iteration, similarity result values are constantly adjusted. The approach avoids the problem of single methods that cannot use the entire amount of ontology information; therefore, it provides a more ideal mapping result. For making full use of the message of ontology, our implementation and experimental results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the mapping approach.
Direct and indirect impacts of pumping station operation on downstream migration of critically endangered European eel
Authors: Bolland Jonathan D. , Murphy Leona A. , Stanford Robert J. , Angelopoulos Natalie V. , Baker Nicola J. , Wright Rosalind M. , Reeds Jake D. , Cowx Ian G.
Published: October 2018

Downstream passage of European eel Anguilla anguilla (L.) in catchments with pump(s) for water level management is a major concern. Catchment‐wide acoustic telemetry revealed silver eels quickly migrated downstream through unobstructed reaches (n = 12; mean ± SD = 17.9 ± 1.9 km/day). Fourteen of 17 acoustic‐tagged eels detected at the pumping station (82.1%) retreated back upstream and ten (58.8%) passed through pumps after delays (9.5 ± 11.0 days). Multi‐beam sonar imaging across the intake screen (55‐mm gaps) revealed that peaks in migration occurred during the nights preceding the new moon but 76.7% retreated back upstream. All passive integrated transponder (PIT)‐tagged eels recaptured (n = 56) downstream of a large (2.23‐m diameter) mixed flow pump survived but 96.5% had minor injuries, reduced physical condition and/or abnormal behaviour. By contrast, 64.7% of PIT‐tagged eels recaptured (n = 17) downstream of a small (0.8‐m diameter) axial flow pump died. No acoustic‐tagged eels that passed through the small axial flow pump (n = 10) performed onward migration at sea, unlike “control” eels released downstream (n = 11). This evidence may help develop effective remediation measures, such as operational changes, to maximise escapement of catadromous eel species at pumping stations.
Dunite channels within a harzburgite layer from the Horoman peridotite complex, Japan: Possible pathway for magmas
Authors: Yoshikawa Masako , Niida Kiyoaki , Green David H.
Published: October 2018

Two discordant dunite channels in a polished slab were collected from a harzburgite layer in the Horoman orogenic lherzolite massif, Hokkaido, Japan. The dunite channels show extreme grain‐size variations, and include very large olivine megacrysts up to 1.6 m long. Spinel‐rich pyroxenite veins or veinlets occasionally cross‐cut the olivine megacrysts. Mineral compositions differ between channels, and the mineral compositions and textures of the dunite channels and the host harzburgite suggest a replacive origin for the dunites. The Sr and Nd isotopic ratios of clinopyroxene separates from the pyroxenite veins in two dunite channels are different, but these ratios are generally similar to those of mid‐ocean ridge basalts. Assuming the channels formed by the through‐flow of melts, then the trace element compositions of the melts estimated from the clinopyroxenes are broadly similar. The melts have similar features such as enriched in incompatible elements and depleted in heavy rare earth elements, but there are differences in the depletions in Ti and Ba, indicating melts that were different but of similar origins. A Rb–Sr crystallization age (~ 52 Ma) was obtained for clinopyroxene–orthopyroxene pairs in a dunite channel and its host harzburgite. The distinctive dunite channels with megacrysts formed as a result of the through‐flow of mafic magma(s), and those magmas had trace and minor element contents that are indicative of contributions of a melt derived from subducted oceanic lithosphere.
Mineralogical characterization of the thrusted manganese ore above the Blackridge Thrust Fault, Kalahari Manganese Field: The footprint of the Mukulu Enrichment
Authors: Vafeas Nicholas A. , Viljoen Karel S. , Blignaut Lauren C.
Published: October 2018

The thrusted manganese ore above the Blackridge Thrust Fault is a predominantly unstudied ore‐type and as such, there is an urgent need to petrographically characterize it. A total of 80 samples were collected from the thrusted lower manganese ore bed of six boreholes on Mukulu in the north of the Kalahari Manganese Field. Each sample underwent a range of optical and electron petrographic analyses in order to effectively characterize three dominant stages of alteration, namely Stages 1, 2 and 3. Similar to the hydrothermally‐altered Wessels‐type manganese ore, braunite II is the predominant mineral phase present during Stage 1 alteration, and alters to bixbyite with increasing proximity to normal faults at the onset of Stage 2 alteration. The final stage of alteration is exhibited by the development of hausmannite and jacobsite adjacent to the ferruginised zone at the normal fault plane. Apatite precipitation, in abundances previously undocumented in the Kalahari Manganese Field, is a hallmark feature of the newly identified Mukulu Enrichment. This supergene‐related enrichment process contributed to the significant abundance of arsenic‐bearing apatite in the ore, whilst residually enriching the ore‐hosted Fe and Mn oxides.
Are prothrombin time and clot waveform analysis useful in detecting a bleeding risk in liver cirrhosis?
Authors: Ruberto Maria F. , Marongiu Francesco , Sorbello Orazio , Civolani Alberto , Demelia Luigi , Barcellona Doris
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Prothrombin time is thought to be unreliable in cirrhotic patients to predict the risk of bleeding. We investigated whether prothrombin time ratio was an independent risk factor for bleeding alongside its clot waveform analysis.

Methods

We studied 307 consecutive cirrhotic patients and 115 healthy subjects. A coagulometer was used for detecting both prothrombin time and clot waveform analysis which included velocity (1st derivative) and acceleration (2nd derivative) of clot formation, and area of parabolic segment of the 1st and 2nd derivatives of prothrombin time (entire cycle of the clot formation).

Results

Logistic regression shows that prothrombin time ratio was the only variable significantly associated with the history of bleeding. Using a hemorrhagic score, the stepwise model included prothrombin time ratio and the area of parabolic segment of the 1st derivative of Prothrombin Time. Odds ratio was used to create a new score to be challenged against the hemorrhagic score in a ROC analysis. The AUC was 0.72, 95% CI: 0.67‐0.77.

Conclusion

Prothrombin time ratio is associated to an increased bleeding risk. Its role may be further emphasized considering clot waveform analysis. The new score, if aggregated to prothrombin time ratio, could be useful to provide a single parameter immediately ready to assess the bleeding risk in the individual cirrhotic patient.
3D structure of oil droplets in hardened geopolymer emulsions
Authors: Davy Catherine A. , Hauss Gregory , Planel Bastien , Lambertin David
Published: October 2018

Geopolymer (GP) cements have the ability to integrate huge amounts of organic oils by direct emulsion in the fresh paste. Moreover, the oil emulsion remains stable during GP hardening. This allows to design tailored GP/oil (GEOIL) composites for an array of industrial applications. Using 3D X‐ray micro‐Computed Tomography (micro‐CT), this research determines the spatial distribution of an industrial oil emulsion inside a GP cement (emulsification in the fresh state, imaging in the hardened state), depending on the oil volume fraction (from 5% to 60% total volume). The oil droplet size distribution, mean distance between droplets, and connectivity of the oil system are determined quantitatively.
Long‐term treatment with ivabradine in transgenic atrial fibrillation mice counteracts hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide gated channel overexpression
Authors: Wang Juan , Yang Yan‐min , Li Yang , Zhu Jun , Lian Hong , Shao Xing‐hui , Zhang Han , Fu Yi‐cheng , Zhang Lian‐feng
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Recent studies have demonstrated that ivabradine (IVA), is a selective inhibitor of funny current (If) and exerts antiarrhythmic effects in the settings of various diseases such as heart failure and myocardial ischemia. However, little is known regarding the effects of long‐term IVA treatment on If current and hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channel overexpression.

Methods and Results

We investigated both the If current and HCN channel expression in wild‐type (WT) mice and transgenic (TG) atrial fibrillation (AF) mice (heart‐specific overexpressing of (pro) renin receptor TG mice) and examined the effects of IVA on the If current and HCN channel expression, and whether those effects were sufficient to prevent an AF episode. Compared with WT mice, the If current density (at −170 mV: TG, −39.6 ± 4.6 pA/pF; WT, −26.9 ± 3.0 pA/pF; P < 0.001) and activation kinetics (V1/2: TG, −109.45 ± 1.35 mV; WT, −128.20 ± 1.65 mV), as well as HCN2 and HCN4 messenger RNA expression and HCN4 protein expression were significantly increased in the atrial myocytes of TG mice. After 4 months of IVA treatment (7 mg/kg per day orally) the effects of IVA on TG AF mice were accompanied by the inhibition of upregulation of HCN2 and HCN4 protein expression in atrial tissue, and then resulted in a uniform If loss of function. Furthermore, we observed that ivabradine significantly decreased the incidence of AF in the TG mice (41.2% in TG mice, 16.7% in TG + IVA mice; P < 0.01).

Conclusion

IVA reduced the incidence of AF in mice, and the antiarrhythmic effects of IVA are not limited to heart rate reduction, as they partially counteract HCN overexpression and reverse electrophysiological cardiac remodeling by attenuating If gain‐of‐function.
Implementing the proclamation of stroke and potentially preventable dementias
Authors: Hachinski Vladimir , Ganten Detlev , Lackland Daniel , Kreutz Reinhold , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Hacke Werner ,   World Stroke Organization, the World Heart Federation, the World Hypertension League, the European Society of Hypertension
Published: October 2018

Brain health plays a central role in well‐being and in the management of chronic diseases. Stroke and dementia pose the two greatest threats to brain health, but recent developments suggest the possibility that preventing stroke may also prevent some dementias: (a) A large population study showed a 32% decrease in the incidence of stroke and a concomitant 7% reduction in the incidence of dementia; (b) the treatment of atrial fibrillation resulted not only in stroke reduction, but also a 48% decrease in dementia; (c) the hypothesis‐free analyses have shown that the first phase of Alzheimer disease involves vascular dysregulation, opening the door to new therapeutic approaches; (d) cognitive impairment, often treatable and reversible, accompanies heart and kidney failure. These developments, combined with the knowledge that stroke, dementia, and heart disease share the same major treatable risk factors, particularly hypertension, offer an opportunity for their joint prevention. This aspiration is expressed by a Proclamation of the World Stroke Organization on Stroke and Potentially Preventable Dementias and endorsed by the World Heart Federation, the World Hypertension League, Alzheimer Disease International, and 18 other international, regional, and national organizations as a call for action.
Twenty‐Four–Hour Diet recall and Diet records compared with 24‐hour urinary excretion to predict an individual’s sodium consumption: A Systematic Review
Authors: McLean Rachael M. , Farmer Victoria L. , Nettleton Alice , Cameron Claire M. , Cook Nancy R. , Woodward Mark , Campbell Norman R. C. ,   TRUE Consortium (in Ternational Consortium for Quality Research on Dietary Sodium/Salt)
Published: October 2018

This systematic literature review aimed to investigate whether 24 hour diet recall and diet records are reliable and valid ways to measure usual dietary sodium intake compared with 24 hour urinary assessment. We searched electronic databases Medline, Embase, Cinahl, Lilacs, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library using pre‐defined terms Studies were eligible for inclusion if they assessed adult humans in free‐living settings, and if they included dietary assessment and 24 hours urinary collection for assessment of sodium intake in the same participants. Studies that included populations with an active disease state that might interfere with normal sodium metabolism were excluded. Results of 20 studies using 24 hour diet recall recall (including 14 validation studies) and 10 studies using food records (including six validation studies) are included in this review. Correlations between estimates from dietary assessment and urinary excretion ranged from 0.16 to 0.72 for 24 hour diet recall, and 0.11 to 0.49 for food diaries. Bland‐Altman analysis in two studies of 24 hour diet recall showed poor agreement with 24 hours urinary sodium excretion. These results show that 24 hour diet recall and diet records inaccurately measure dietary sodium intake in individuals compared with the gold standard 24 hours urinary excretion. Validation studies of dietary assessment methods should include multiple days of assessment and 24 hours urine collection, use relevant food composition databases and Bland‐Altman methods of analysis.
Review of the role of cigarette smoking in diabetic foot
Authors: Xia Nan , Morteza Afsaneh , Yang Fengyu , Cao Hong , Wang Aiping
Published: October 2018

Diabetic foot ulceration has been a serious issue over the past decades in Asia, causing economic and social problems. Therefore, it is important to identify and reduce the risk factors of diabetic foot. Cigarette smoking has been reported to be associated with diabetes and its macrovascular complications, but the relationship between smoking and diabetic foot ulcers is still unclear. In the present review, we summarize the effects of cigarette smoking on diabetic foot ulcers with respect to peripheral neuropathy, vascular alterations and wound healing. One underlying mechanism of these impacts might be the smoking‐induced oxidative stress inside the cells. At the end of this review, the current mainstream therapies for smoking cessation are also outlined. We believe that it is urgent for all diabetic patients to quit smoking so as to reduce their chances of developing foot ulcers and to improve the prognosis of diabetic foot ulcers.
New attempts to improve in vitro diagnosis of contact allergy are still far from regular clinical practice
Authors: Gonçalo M.
Published: October 2018

Linked article: This is a commentary on B. Summer et al., pp. 1542–1548 in the previous issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.14931
Psoriasis: identifying trends through search engines
Authors: Hsu C.
Published: October 2018

Linked article: This is a commentary on A. Martinez‐Lopez et al., pp. e370–e372 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.14944
Five‐year success rate of resin‐bonded fixed partial dentures: A systematic review
Authors: Alraheam Islam Abd , Ngoc Caroline Nguyen , Wiesen Christopher A. , Donovan Terence E.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To assess and compare the 5‐year success rate of resin‐bonded fixed partial dentures (RBFPDs) fabricated from different materials.

Methods

An electronic search on 3 databases from January 1965 to March of 2017 was done for human randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and prospective and retrospective cohort studies. The key words used in the search were: Bridge OR bridges OR fixed partial OR fixed dental AND resin bonded OR Maryland OR ceramic bonded. Quality assessment was done using the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale. Success was defined as the RBFPDs remaining in situ and not having experienced debonding, biological failures, or mechanical failures at the examination visit.

Results

Meta analyses of the included studies showed an estimated 5‐year success rate of 88.18% for the metal framework RBFPDs and 84.41% for the nonmetal framework RBFPDs. The estimated 5‐year success rate for each nonmetal material category was 92.07% for zirconia, 94.26% for In‐Ceram alumina, and 84.83% for fiber‐reinforced composite. The failure rate was not statistically significant among the single, double, and multiple retainers RBFPDs (P > .05). Technical complications were the main reason for failures.

Conclusion

The 5‐year clinical performance of RBFPDs is similar to the performance of conventional fixed partial dentures (FPDs) and implant‐supported crowns.

Clinical Significance

Clinicians should consider using RBFPDs more often because their clinical performance is similar to the performance of conventional FPDs and implant‐supported crowns.
Short Panicle 3 controls panicle architecture by upregulating APO2/RFL and increasing cytokinin content in rice
Authors: Huang Yong , Bai Xufeng , Luo Meifang , Xing Yongzhong
Published: October 2018

Inflorescence architecture is a major determinant of spikelet numbers per panicle, a key component of grain yield in rice. In this study, Short Panicle 3 (SP3) was identified from a short panicle 3 (sp3) mutant in which T‐DNA was inserted in the promoter of SP3, resulting in a knockdown mutation. SP3 encodes a DNA binding with one finger (Dof) transcriptional activator. Quantitative real time (qRT)‐PCR and RNA in situ hybridization assays confirmed that SP3 is preferentially expressed in the young rice inflorescence, specifically in the branch primordial regions. SP3 acts as a negative regulator of inflorescence meristem abortion by upregulating APO2/RFL. SP3 both up‐ and downregulates expression of genes involved in cytokinin biosynthesis and catabolism, respectively. Consequently, cytokinin concentrations are decreased in young sp3 panicles, thereby leading to small panicles having fewer branches and spikelets. Our findings support a model in which SP3 regulates panicle architecture by modulating cytokinin homeostasis. Potential applications to rice breeding, through gene‐editing of the SP3 promoter are assessed.
DETERMINANTS OF THE PERFORMANCE OF MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Hermes Niels , Hudon Marek
Published: October 2018

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) generally aim at improving the access of the poor to financial services while at the same time being financially sustainable. But what do we know about how MFIs reach and combine these two goals? We carry out a systematic review of close to 170 papers discussing the determinants of the financial and social performance of MFIs. The review shows that the most important determinants addressed in the literature are MFI characteristics (size, age and type of organization), their funding sources, the quality of organizational governance and the MFIs’ external context such as macro‐economic, institutional and political conditions. The evidence on these issues is rather mixed. Moreover, the direction of the relationship between these drivers and MFI performance depends on the context, particularly the country‐specific context. Finally, there is a lack of consensus in the literature on the measurement of financial and social performance. Due to the complexity of the concept, we argue that social performance should only be assessed by using a multidimensional perspective. This can be done either by applying recent and holistic social performance measures such as the SPI4, or at least by using a combination of proxies, such as outreach, gender and rural measures.
The Qualities of Same‐Sex and Different‐Sex Couples in Young Adulthood
Authors: Joyner Kara , Manning Wendy , Prince Barbara
Published: October 2018

Objective: The recognition of sexual minorities in social science research is growing, and this study contributes to knowledge on this population by comparing the qualities of same‐sex and different‐sex relationships among young adults.

Background: The findings of studies on this topic may not be generalizable because they are limited to coresidential unions and based on convenience samples. This study extends prior research by examining multiple relationship qualities among a nationally representative sample of males and females in dating and cohabiting relationships.

Method: The authors compare young adults in same‐sex and different‐sex relationships with respect to relationship quality (commitment, satisfaction, and emotional intimacy) and sexual behavior (sexual frequency and sexual exclusivity). Drawing on the 4th wave of data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (
http://www.cpc.unc.edu/projects/addhealth), they use multiple regression to compare: male respondents with different‐sex partners, male respondents with same‐sex partners, female respondents with different‐sex partners, and female respondents with same‐sex partners.

Results: Consistent with previous research, the authors find that respondents in same‐sex relationships experience similar levels of commitment, satisfaction, and emotional intimacy as their counterparts in different‐sex relationships. They also corroborate the finding that male respondents in same‐sex relationships are less likely than other groups of respondents to indicate that their relationship is sexually exclusive.

Conclusion: This study provides an empirical basis for understanding the relationships of sexual minority young adults.
Arterial Spin Labeling MRI to Measure Cerebral Blood Flow in Untreated Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Crisi Girolamo , Filice Silvano , Scoditti Umberto
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This study aims to investigate the significance of regional hyperperfusion (RH) detected by arterial spin labeling (ASL) in a group of untreated stroke patients, within 24‐36 hours after symptom onset. The relationship between RH volume and infarcted volume (DIV) as defined on diffusion weighted images (DWIs) was evaluated.

METHODS

Of the 346 consecutive acute stroke patients who attended our center, we retrospectively reviewed MRI studies of 47 patients who were ineligible for standard treatment with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator. The MRI study included ASL and DWI. The ASL‐derived cerebral blood flow (CBF) maps were coregistered on the DWI images. RH volume and DIV were calculated and compared. Patient NIHSS scores were also evaluated at admission, discharge, and after 1 and 6‐month follow‐up.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two patients showed RH with CBF twice than baseline. In all 22 patients, RH overlaps with DWI infarcted area. No significant difference (P = .94) between RH volume and DIV was found (7.2 ± 9.6 and 9.0 ± 11.9 cm3). The Pearson's correlation coefficient between RH and DIV was .93. On univariate analysis, a significant difference was found between patient's groups on NIHSS at any time points, after covariates adjustment NIHSS difference was significant only at admission.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that ASL perfusion could be an integral part of the MRI examination in the assessment of 24‐36 hours not‐treated stroke patients as sustained RH group had improved outcomes. More importantly, ASL perfusion may provide evidence of beneficial effects of reperfusion induced by recanalization treatment.
Functional Brain Network Changes Following Use of an Allostatic, Closed‐Loop, Acoustic Stimulation Neurotechnology for Military‐Related Traumatic Stress
Authors: Lee Sung W. , Laurienti Paul J. , Burdette Jonathan H. , Tegeler Catherine L. , Morgan Ashley R. , Simpson Sean L. , Gerdes Lee , Tegeler Charles H.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Post‐traumatic stress disorder is associated with connectivity changes in the default mode, central executive, and salience networks, and other brain regions. This study evaluated changes in network connectivity associated with usage of High‐resolution, relational, resonance‐based electroencephalic mirroring (HIRREM®; Brain State Technologies, Scottsdale, AZ), a closed‐loop, allostatic, acoustic stimulation neurotechnology, for military‐related traumatic stress.

METHODS

Eighteen participants (17 males, mean age 41 years [SD = 7], 15 active duty) enrolled in an IRB approved pilot trial for symptoms of military‐related traumatic stress. Participants received 19.5 (1.1) HIRREM sessions over 12 days. Symptoms, physiological and functional measures, and whole brain resting MRI were collected before and after HIRREM. Six whole brain functional networks were evaluated using summary variables and community structure of predefined networks. Pre to postintervention change was analyzed using paired‐sample statistical tests.

RESULTS

Postintervention, there was an overall increase in connectivity of the default mode network (P = .0094). There were decreases of community structure in both the anterior portion of the default mode (medial prefrontal cortex, P = .0097) and in the sensorimotor (P = .005) network. There were no statistically significant changes at the whole brain level, or in the central executive, salience, or other networks analyzed. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in clinical symptoms, as well as autonomic cardiovascular regulation, which have been reported previously.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of closed‐loop, allostatic, acoustic stimulation neurotechnology (HIRREM) was associated with connectivity changes in the default mode and sensorimotor networks, in directions that may have explained the subjects’ clinical improvements.
No Association Between Active Commuting to School, Adiposity, Fitness, and Cognition in Spanish Children: The MOVI‐KIDS Study
Authors: Ruiz‐Hermosa Abel , Martínez‐Vizcaíno Vicente , Alvarez‐Bueno Celia , García‐Prieto Jorge C. , Pardo‐Guijarro María J. , Sánchez‐López Mairena
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Walking and bicycling (active commuting) to school may be a useful strategy to increase the daily amount of physical activity, and, potentially, improve children's health. However, it is unclear whether active commuting to school (ACS) has the potential to improve physical health and cognitive performance in children. Our aim was to examine the relationship between ACS with adiposity indicators, physical fitness, and cognitive performance in 4‐ to 7‐year‐old children.

METHODS

We conducted a cross‐sectional study with 1159 children from the provinces of Cuenca and Ciudad Real, Spain. ACS was self‐reported by parents. Adiposity (body mass index, waist circumference, body fat mass, and triceps skinfold thickness) and physical fitness (cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness) were measured by standard procedures. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Battery of General and Differential Aptitudes. Data analysis included analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

We found no differences in adiposity, physical fitness, and cognitive performance between active commuters and nonactive commuters.

CONCLUSIONS

Walking to school had no positive impact on adiposity, physical fitness, and cognition in 4‐ to 7‐year‐old children. Future studies should examine the intensity and duration of walking to school needed to provide benefits in health and cognitive performance.