bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased habenular connectivity in opioid users is associated with an α5 subunit nicotinic receptor genetic variant
Authors: Curtis Kaylah , Viswanath Humsini , Velasquez Kenia M. , Molfese David L. , Harding Mark J. , Aramayo Eduardo , Baldwin Philip R. , Ambrosi Elisa , Madan Alok , Patriquin Michelle , Frueh B. Christopher , Fowler J.Christopher , Kosten Thomas R. , Nielsen David A. , Salas Ramiro
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic disorder with relapse based on both desire for reinforcement (craving) and avoidance of withdrawal. The aversive aspect of dependence and relapse has been associated with a small brain structure called the habenula, which expresses large numbers of both opioid and nicotinic receptors. Additionally, opioid withdrawal symptoms can be induced in opioid‐treated rodents by blocking not only opioid, but also nicotinic receptors. This receptor co‐localization and cross‐induction of withdrawal therefore might lead to genetic variation in the nicotinic receptor influencing development of human opioid dependence through its impact on the aversive components of opioid dependence.

Methods

We studied habenular resting state functional connectivity with related brain structures, specifically the striatum. We compared abstinent psychiatric patients who use opioids (N = 51) to psychiatric patients who do not (N = 254) to identify an endophenotype of opioid use that focused on withdrawal avoidance and aversion rather than the more commonly examined craving aspects of relapse.

Results

We found that habenula–striatal connectivity was stronger in opioid‐using patients. Increased habenula–striatum connectivity was observed in opioid‐using patients with the low risk rs16969968 GG genotype, but not in patients carrying the high risk AG or AA genotypes.

Conclusions

We propose that increased habenula–striatum functional connectivity may be modulated by the nicotinic receptor variant rs16969968 and may lead to increased opioid use.

Scientific Significance

Our data uncovered a promising brain target for development of novel anti‐addiction therapies and may help the development of personalized therapies against opioid abuse. (Am J Addict 2017;26:751–759)
Very preterm birth before arrival at hospital
Authors: Boland Rosemarie Anne , Davis Peter Graham , Dawson Jennifer Anne , Stewart Michael J. , Smith Jacqui , Doyle Lex William
Published: August 2017

Background

Our aim was to report perinatal characteristics of very preterm births before arrival (BBAs) at a hospital, and perinatal and infant mortality rates up to one year, comparing BBAs with births in a hospital.

Materials and Methods

A population‐based cohort study of 22–31 weeks’ gestation births in the state of Victoria, Australia from 1990–2009. BBAs were defined as unintentional births at home or on route to hospital. Perinatal data were obtained from the Department of Health and Human Services, Victoria. Perinatal and infant mortality data comparing BBAs with births in hospitals were analysed by logistic regression, adjusted for gestational age, birthweight and sex.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐three BBAs were recorded: 51 (38%) stillbirths and 82 (62%) livebirths. Compared with births in a hospital, BBAs were less mature (26.3 weeks (SD 2.9) vs 27.7 weeks (SD 2.8), P < 0.001) and a higher proportion were born to teenagers: 13% versus 5% (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.86, P < 0.001). BBAs were significantly more likely to be stillborn (aOR 2.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41, 3.23, P < 0.001) die within 28 days of livebirth (aOR 2.97, 95% CI 1.54, 5.73, P = 0.001) or die within a year of livebirth (aOR 2.87, 95% CI 1.51, 5.46, P = 0.001) compared with hospital births. Overall, 54 BBAs survived to one year (41% all BBAs, 67% liveborn BBAs), compared with 69% of hospital births (87% of livebirths).

Conclusions

Very preterm birth before arrival is more common in teenagers and is associated with significantly increased risks of perinatal and infant mortality compared with birth in a hospital.
Simultaneous induction of HSP70 expression, and degranulation, in IgE/Ag‐stimulated or extracellular HSP70‐stimulated mast cells
Authors: Li X. , Kanegasaki S. , Jin F. , Deng Y. , Kim J.‐R. , Chang H. W. , Tsuchiya T.
Published: August 2017

Background

In mast cells, induction of HSP70 expression during antigen stimulation has not been reported.

Methods

Mouse bone marrow‐derived mast cells (BMMC) were stimulated with IgE/Ag or HSP70. Induction of HSP70 expression and signaling protein phosphorylation were evaluated by immunoblotting.

Results

HSP70 expression is induced in BMMC at an early stage of IgE/Ag‐dependent stimulation, some of which is released from the cells in a granule‐associated form. Induction of HSP70 expression was also observed with an IgE/Ag‐stimulated human basophilic cell line, indicating that the phenomenon is not restricted to mouse BMMC. The induction of HSP70 expression, and its release, followed a similar time course to that of degranulation. Released HSP70 seems to be responsible for degranulation and production of eicosanoids, at least in part, because a neutralizing anti‐HSP70 antibody mitigated these activities and because exogenous HSP70 not only induced immediate degranulation followed by autocrine HSP70 expression but also enhanced degranulation in IgE/Ag‐stimulated BMMC. Extracellular HSP70 was found to induce phosphorylation of linker for activation of T cells (LAT) and a series of downstream signaling molecules in BMMC. We further found that Fyn, Lyn, and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), which are known to concern LAT phosphorylation in IgE/Ag‐stimulated BMMC, were not phosphorylated in HSP70‐stimulated BMMC, whereas lymphocyte‐specific protein tyrosine kinase (Lck) was phosphorylated.

Conclusion

FcεRI stimulation in BMMC and basophils induces HSP70 expression and its release. Extracellular HSP70 induces degranulation and mediator release via phosphorylation of LAT.
Pregbalin induced recurrent syncopal attacks with prolong QT interval
Authors: Adar Adem , Cakan Fahri , Önalan Orhan
Published: August 2017

Long QT syndrome may lead to fatal dysrhythmia. Prolongation of QT interval due to pregabalin has been shown in rats and no data is available in humans. We report a 80‐year‐old female patient using pregabalin. She was presented to emergency room with syncope attacks. Her admission electrocardiography demonstrated prolonged QT interval. After excluding the possible causes of the long QT syndrome, we attributed prolonged QT interval to pregabalin therapy. After discontinuation of pregabalin QT interval returned to normal range and patient experienced no further syncope attacks. It is first time for documentation of prolonged QT due to pregabalin in humans.
Producing Victimhood: Landmines, Reparations, and Law in Colombia
Authors: Counter Max
Published: August 2017

This research theorizes Colombia's 2011 Victims’ and Land Restitution Law (the Victims’ Law) as a biopolitical program that intends to foster the lives of conflict‐affected populations through providing an array of reparation measures. Based on fieldwork with internally displaced landmine victims in Colombia's Magdalena Medio region, I highlight how the Victims’ Law constitutes the identity of which populations count as “victims” worthy of reparations, how such parameters are contested, and how landmine survivors’ sense of themselves as “victims” is mediated via their experiences with the Victims’ Law and the reparation programs it provides. In particular, I highlight the possibilities and limitations of reparation measures that hinge on small‐scale business incubation programs for landmine victims to show how a legally recognized victimhood category presupposes “self‐responsible” neoliberal subjects who must confront contexts of conflict and state neglect.
Spectacle use after routine cataract surgery: a study from the Swedish National Cataract Register
Authors: Farhoudi Daniel B. , Behndig Anders , Montan Per , Lundström Mats , Zetterström Charlotta , Kugelberg Maria
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To explore patients' obtaining and use of spectacles after routine cataract surgery.

Methods

The study included 1329 patients who underwent bilateral surgery with the second eye operated during March 2013 at 38 different clinics in Sweden. Five months after the second‐eye surgery, patients completed a five‐item questionnaire about their spectacle use preoperatively and postoperatively. The responses were linked to data from the registry on multiple variables including postoperative refraction, age and gender.

Results

Of the 387 patients who were advised by their surgeons to obtain distance spectacles postoperatively, most did so (77.3%, n = 299), while of the 691 patients who were not so advised, most did not obtain spectacles (78.9%, n = 545). Nevertheless, almost 50% of patients with both spherical and cylindrical errors exceeding 1 dioptre (D) did not obtain new distance spectacles postoperatively, while about 25% of patients with bilateral emmetropia (spherical error <0.5 D, cylinder <1 D) obtained new distance spectacles postoperatively.

Conclusion

Patients' choices regarding obtaining and using new spectacles postoperatively are strongly correlated with advice given by the surgeon about the need for distance correction. The large difference between groups who were and were not advised to obtain spectacles for distance correction was only partially reflected in the postoperative refractive errors. Similarly, the patterns of preoperative spectacle use and gender or age differences did not explain this difference.
Self‐Regulatory Efficacy Encourages Exercise Persistence Despite Arthritis Flare Symptoms
Authors: Sessford James D. , Brawley Lawrence R. , Cary Miranda A. , Flora Parminder K. , Blouin Jocelyn E. , Meade Laura , Strachan Shaelyn M. , Gyurcsik Nancy C.
Published: August 2017

Background

The study of exercise adherence during an arthritis flare is recommended by arthritis researchers. Studies to date have been correlational.

Methods

Social cognitions of exercising individuals with arthritis who consider exercise adherence under different levels of challenge of an arthritis flare were examined using an experimental design. Exercising individuals with differential self‐regulatory efficacy for managing arthritis flare symptoms (SRE‐flare) were randomly assigned to conditions where flare symptoms were perceived as either many or few. Individuals in each condition responded about the strength of their anticipated persistence to continue exercise, and their self‐regulatory efficacy to use coping strategies to enable exercise.

Results

Higher SRE‐flare individuals expressed significantly (a) greater persistence (Cohen's d = 1.17) and (b) more confidence to use their flare coping solutions (Cohen's d = 1.44).

Conclusion

Main findings were as hypothesised. When exposed to the condition with more limiting flare symptoms (i.e. greater challenge), high SRE participants were the most confident in dealing with flare symptoms and exercising. Identifying lower SRE‐flare individuals less likely to persist with exercise during arthritis flares may improve tailored exercise counselling.
Learning spaces in the countryside: university students and the Harper assemblage
Authors: Robinson Philip A.
Published: August 2017

Using the concepts of affect and assemblage, this paper expands the boundaries of the geographies of education by shifting the student focus from the urban to the rural. Based on the findings of student interviews, it demonstrates how a multiscalar and diversely constituted network of material and non‐material things (including buildings, animals and plants) coalesces with students to create affective atmospheres of learning in a specialist agri‐food and land‐based rural university. This learning is underpinned by a sense of attachment to historical tradition through more than a century of agricultural education on the campus, giving students a strong sense of identity in corporeality. Animals are enrolled in teaching and learning through embodied sensory engagement with their states of health, welfare and disease. Students learn both with and from their student peers, centred on a mutual interest in the science and practicality of caring for production animals and pets. This mutual learning and sharing takes place both within, and informally beyond, the geographies of the classroom. The paper draws out wider cautionary lessons for ongoing university expansions; the praxis of university education within fieldwork‐ and vocationally‐based domains; and the role of both formal and informal assemblages of teaching and learning within the academy.
Assessment of florfenicol as a possible treatment for chlamydiosis in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: Budd C , Flanagan C , Gillett A , Hanger J , Loader JJ , Govendir M
Published: August 2017

Objective

Because of limited availability of chloramphenicol to veterinary suppliers, a preliminary study was performed to predict whether an analogue, florfenicol, is an efficacious treatment for chlamydiosis in koalas.

Methods

Florfenicol was administered to koalas with naturally occurring chlamydiosis at 20 mg/kg SC (n = 3) and at 5 mg/kg (n = 3) and 10 mg/kg (n = 3) IV. The estimated areas under the plasma concentration versus time curves (AUC) were compared with the minimum inhibitory concentration to inhibit Chlamydia pecorum. Clinical data were also examined from field trials conducted on koalas (n = 19) with naturally occurring chlamydiosis and treated with florfenicol at a range of dosages (5–20 mg/kg SC and 6–15 mg/kg IV). Florfenicol binding to proteins in plasma was also determined.

Results

Florfenicol was not detectable in plasma 24 h post‐administration at 20 mg/kg SC. The estimated AUC0–24 h following administration at 10 mg/kg IV suggests florfenicol might be effective against Chlamydia spp. via this route. Florfenicol binding to plasma proteins was 13.0% (± 0.30 SEM).

After treatment with florfenicol in field trials, 5 of 19 koalas (26%) were released without further treatment, 4 with no long‐term follow‐up; 6 (32%) required additional treatment with chloramphenicol to resolve chlamydiosis; 7 (36%) failed to clinically improve, of which 3 had clinical signs and/or necropsy findings suggestive of antibiotic‐related gastrointestinal dysbiosis; another koala died within minutes of florfenicol administered IV at 7 mg/kg.

Conclusion

When administered at dosages tolerable in the field, florfenicol is a problematic treatment for chlamydiosis based on equivocal outcomes and plasma concentrations below those that inhibit the pathogen.
Effect of insemination site and diameter of the pre‐ovulatory follicle on the odds of pregnancy in heifers using sexed or non‐sexed semen
Authors: Ingenhoff L , Hall E , Ranjbar NI S , House JK
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine if insemination site or pre‐ovulatory follicle diameter at fixed‐time artificial insemination (FTAI) affects the odds of pregnancy when heifers are inseminated with sexed semen.

Methods

The study was conducted in 422 Holstein heifers enrolled into 531 inseminations. Inseminations were randomly allocated to 1 of 16 treatment combinations involving three variables: semen type (sexed vs non‐sexed), insemination site (uterine horn vs uterine body) and one of four sires. Ovaries were examined by transrectal ultrasound prior to FTAI to determine the follicle diameter and location. AI technician, times bred, age, weight and temperature–humidity index were also recorded. Pregnancy diagnosis was conducted 29 days post‐insemination. Follicle diameter and body weight were categorised according to arbitrary cut‐points. Each variable was analysed by logistic regression to determine the effect on pregnancy per AI and compare between sexed and non‐sexed inseminations.

Results

Insemination site did not affect pregnancy per AI for either sexed (P = 0.528) or non‐sexed (P = 0.886) inseminations. Heifers with an 18–22 mm follicle had better odds of pregnancy than heifers that did not (odds ratio (OR) 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.004–2.09), although no effect was detected for only sexed or only non‐sexed inseminations. Heifers weighing 310–370 kg had a higher pregnancy per AI than heifers weighing > 370 kg for non‐sexed inseminations (P = 0.004) and sexed semen from sire 4 caused lower odds of pregnancy than semen from sire 1 (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.18–0.89).

Conclusion

Insemination site did not affect pregnancy per AI, but heifers with an 18–22 mm pre‐ovulatory follicle at insemination had better odds of pregnancy for both sexed and non‐sexed inseminations.
Use of cabergoline for oestrus induction in multiparous anoestrous Beagle bitches
Authors: Shimatsu Y
Published: August 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of daily cabergoline administration on oestrus induction in bitches.

Methods and Results

Of 20 multiparous Beagle bitches, 15 were not mated with sires in their last oestrus and 5 bitches that had been mated whelped. All bitches were in early or mid‐anoestrus and received 5 μg/kg/day cabergoline PO. Oestrus was induced in the mid‐anoestrus bitches at a higher rate than in the early anoestrus bitches. Comparing the different histories of previous pregnancy among the mid‐anoestrus bitches, the rate of oestrus induction in the non‐pregnant bitches was higher than in the bitches that whelped.

Conclusion

Cabergoline is effective for oestrus induction in mid‐anoestrus bitches.
FLCRM: Functional Linear Cox Regression Model
Authors: Kong Dehan , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Lee Eunjee , Zhu Hongtu
Published: September 2017

We consider a functional linear Cox regression model for characterizing the association between time-to-event data and a set of functional and scalar predictors. The functional linear Cox regression model incorporates a functional principal component analysis for modeling the functional predictors and a high-dimensional Cox regression model to characterize the joint effects of both functional and scalar predictors on the time-to-event data. We develop an algorithm to calculate the maximum approximate partial likelihood estimates of unknown finite and infinite dimensional parameters. We also systematically investigate the rate of convergence of the maximum approximate partial likelihood estimates and a score test statistic for testing the nullity of the slope function associated with the functional predictors. We demonstrate our estimation and testing procedures by using simulations and the analysis of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) data. Our real data analyses show that high-dimensional hippocampus surface data may be an important marker for predicting time to conversion to Alzheimer's disease. Data used in the preparation of this article were obtained from the ADNI database (adni.loni.usc.edu).
Hospital admission for hyperemesis gravidarum in women at increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth
Authors: Kleine Ira , Da Silva Ana , Ahmed Wafaa , Forya Frida , Whitten Sara M. , David Anna L. , James Catherine P.
Published: August 2017

Background

Progesterone administration prevents spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) in women at increased risk. Progesterone concentration is lower in women with subsequent sPTB. Conversely, high concentrations of progesterone are implicated in the pathogenesis of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). We hypothesized that women at increased risk of sPTB or spontaneous late miscarriage would be less likely to have a diagnosis of HG. To explore this hypothesis, we compared the incidence of HG in women at increased risk of sPTB and women with no identifiable risk factors.

Methods

Women at increased risk of sPTB were identified from a specialist Preterm Birth Clinic (PTBC) database where criteria for PTBC attendance are previous cervical surgery, previous sPTB <34 weeks, previous spontaneous late miscarriage, incidental sonographic cervical shortening, and uterine anomaly. Hospital antenatal booking and coding records for the same time period were examined to identify HG admissions. Women with multiple gestations, trophoblastic disease, or pre‐existing abnormal thyroid function were excluded. The incidence of HG among PTBC (n=394) and non‐PTBC attendees (n=4762) was calculated.

Results

The incidence of HG was lower in women at increased risk of sPTB (1.52%, n=6) compared with women with no identifiable risk factor for sPTB (3.33%, n=159; P=.049).

Conclusion

Hospital admission for HG is reduced in women with risk factors for sPTB compared with those without risk factors. Exploration of the pathogenesis of HG may improve understanding of the mechanisms underlying sPTB.
Sleep difficulties and academic performance in Norwegian higher education students
Authors: Hayley Amie C. , Sivertsen Børge , Hysing Mari , Vedaa Øystein , Øverland Simon
Published: September 2017

Background

Sleep difficulties are common among university students and may detrimentally affect academic outcomes. Despite this, remarkably little information is currently available during this critical developmental period of early adulthood, and thus, the direct effect on measurable domains of academic ability and proficiency is equivocal.

Aims

To evaluate the associations between difficulties initiating and maintaining sleep (DIMS) and subjective and objective academic performance in a large sample of university students.

Sample

A total of 12,915 students who participated in large student survey in Norway from 24 February 2014 to 27 March 2014. DIMS was assessed by the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist (HSCL‐25), and academic outcomes included failed examinations, delayed study progress, and school‐related self‐efficacy (General Self‐Efficacy Scale).

Results

Difficulties initiating and maintaining sleep was independently associated with increased odds for poor school performance for all academic outcomes. Reporting ‘extreme’ DIMS was associated with increased odds of reporting delayed study progress (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.57, p < .05), increased odds for having failed several examinations (adjusted OR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.56–2.34, p < .001), and being in the lowest self‐efficacy quartile (adjusted OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 4.04–6.03, p < .001).

Conclusions

Self‐reported sleep difficulties are associated with poorer objective markers of academic outcomes as well as poorer self‐rated academic proficiency among higher education students. Amelioration of sleep difficulties may improve overall academic performance and health outcomes in affected students.
Light‐induced regulation of ligand‐gated channel activity
Authors: Bregestovski Piotr , Maleeva Galyna , Gorostiza Pau
Published: August 2017

The control of ligand‐gated receptors with light using photochromic compounds has evolved from the first handcrafted examples to accurate, engineered receptors, whose development is supported by rational design, high‐resolution protein structures, comparative pharmacology and molecular biology manipulations. Photoswitchable regulators have been designed and characterized for a large number of ligand‐gated receptors in the mammalian nervous system, including nicotinic acetylcholine, glutamate and GABA receptors. They provide a well‐equipped toolbox to investigate synaptic and neuronal circuits in all‐optical experiments. This focused review discusses the design and properties of these photoswitches, their applications and shortcomings and future perspectives in the field.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.11/issuetoc
Gendered Parenting in Early Childhood: Subtle But Unmistakable if You Know Where to Look
Authors: Mesman Judi , Groeneveld Marleen G.
Published: September 2017

Gendered parenting refers to parental messages and behaviors that convey information about how girls and boys are supposed to behave. In this article, we show that although gendered socialization is rarely found in broad parenting styles or explicit parenting practices, it is present in implicit parenting practices. Such implicit practices can be directed to the child (direct messages) and take the form of exposing children to different products and responding to children's behaviors differently depending on gender. Implicit gendered parenting practices can also be directed to others or reflect general gendered expressions that are conveyed to the child (indirect messages); these can take the form of gendered evaluations of others’ behaviors in the child's presence and modeling gendered roles. We argue that studying these subtle forms of gendered parenting is important to understand gendered child development in light of the changing societal backdrop of gender roles and values.
Thyroid‐stimulating hormone and risk of sudden cardiac death, total mortality and cardiovascular morbidity
Authors: Langén Ville L. , Niiranen Teemu J. , Puukka Pauli , Lehtonen Arttu O. , Hernesniemi Jussi A. , Sundvall Jouko , Salomaa Veikko , Jula Antti M.
Published: September 2017

Background

Previous data on the association of thyroid function with total mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes and sudden cardiac death (SCD) are conflicting or limited. We investigated associations of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) with these outcomes in a nationwide population‐based prospective cohort study.

Methods

We examined 5211 participants representative of the Finnish population aged ≥30 years in 2000‐2001 and followed them for a median of 13.2 years. Using Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusted for baseline age, gender, smoking, diabetes, systolic blood pressure and total and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, we assessed the associations of continuous baseline TSH and TSH categories (low [<0.4 mU/L], reference range [0.4‐3.4 mU/L] and high [>3.4 mU/L]) with incident total mortality, SCD, coronary heart disease events, stroke, CVD, major adverse cardiac events and atrial fibrillation.

Results

High TSH at baseline was related to a greater risk of total mortality (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.02‐1.76) and SCD (HR 2.28, 95% CI 1.13‐4.60) compared with TSH within the reference range. High TSH was not associated with the other outcomes (P ≥ .51), whereas low TSH was not associated with any of the outcomes (P ≥ .09). TSH at baseline over the full range did not have a linear relation with any of the outcomes (P ≥ .17). TSH showed a U‐shaped association with total mortality after a restricted cubic spline transformation (P = .01).

Conclusions

Thyroid function abnormalities could be linked with higher risks of total mortality and SCD. Large‐scale randomized studies are needed for evidence‐based recommendations regarding treatment of mild thyroid failure.
Recessive mutations in NDUFA2 cause mitochondrial leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Perrier S. , Gauquelin L. , Tétreault M. , Tran L.T. , Webb N. , Srour M. , Mitchell J.J. , Brunel‐Guitton C. , Majewski J. , Long V. , Keller S. , Gambello M.J. , Simons C. ,   Care4Rare Canada Consortium, Vanderver A. , Bernard G.
Published: August 2017

Deficiencies of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I frequently result in leukoencephalopathy in young patients, and different mutations in the genes encoding its subunits are still being uncovered. We report 2 patients with cystic leukoencephalopathy and complex I deficiency with recessive mutations in NDUFA2, an accessory subunit of complex I. The first patient was initially diagnosed with a primary systemic carnitine deficiency associated with a homozygous variant in SLC22A5, but also exhibited developmental regression and cystic leukoencephalopathy, and an additional diagnosis of complex I deficiency was suspected. Biochemical analysis confirmed a complex I deficiency, and whole‐exome sequencing revealed a homozygous mutation in NDUFA2 (c.134A>C, p.Lys45Thr). Review of a biorepository of patients with unsolved genetic leukoencephalopathies who underwent whole‐exome or genome sequencing allowed us to identify a second patient with compound heterozygous mutations in NDUFA2 (c.134A>C, p.Lys45Thr; c.225del, p.Asn76Metfs*4). Only 1 other patient with mutations in NDUFA2 and a different phenotype (Leigh syndrome) has previously been reported. This is the first report of cystic leukoencephalopathy caused by mutations in NDUFA2.
A classification system to enhance light‐fastness data interpretation based on microfading tests and rate of colour change
Authors: Prestel Thomas
Published: August 2017

In general light‐fastness tests are carried out by comparing the colour change of a sample to the colour change of Blue Wool Standards in the same illumination conditions. With the microfading technique, developed to test the light fastness of a tiny test area on objects of cultural value, this comparison is made by absolute colour change after exposure. This article presents a new approach to enhance data interpretation of light‐fastness tests by the use of the rate of colour change. The procedure is combined with the conventional classification process using absolute colour change. The new classification system with the rate of colour change was applied to 44 samples, 13 of them were classified in more sensitive Blue Wool categories when analysing the rate of colour change. The perspective of rate of colour change helps to enhance data interpretation especially of samples showing fading characteristics different from the light‐fastness standards.
The effect of CCR5Δ32 on the risk of grade 3‐4 acute graft‐versus‐host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Niu Jing‐wen , Pan Ting , Zhang Bin , Chen Hu
Published: September 2017

Objective

Many studies have showed that CCR5 was involved in the pathological process of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD). However, the relationship between CCR5Δ32, a frameshift mutation, and grade 3‐4 acute GVHD risk has not been well established. We performed a meta‐analysis to explore the effects of CCR5 gene polymorphisms on grade 3‐4 aGVHD.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched to collect relevant articles. Studies about association between CCR5 genotype in recipients or donors of allo‐HSCT and aGVHD risk were included. All pooled analyses were based on fixed effects models. The effects were assessed from odd ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of three studies comprising 937 recipients and 914 donors of allo‐HSCT met the inclusion criteria. Compared with the wild‐type CCR5 homozygotes, the pooled odd ratios (ORs) for CCR5Δ32 mutation (both homozygous and heterozygous) was 0.71 (95% CI, 0.40‐1.26; P = .24) for donors, and 0.79 (95% CI, 0.35‐1.81; P = .58) for recipients. No relationship was found between the presence of the CCR5Δ32 mutation and grade 3‐4 aGVHD. Larger clinical investigations and retrospective studies are needed to explore the association of CCR5 gene polymorphisms with aGVHD risk as well as the outcome of HSCT.
Does Trade Liberalization Boost Quality Upgrading? Evidence From Indonesian Plant‐Product‐Level Data
Authors: Hayakawa Kazunobu , Matsuura Toshiyuki , Takii Sadayuki
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we examine the effects of tariff reduction on product quality upgrading by employing Indonesian plant‐product‐level panel data matched with plant‐level data. In particular, the effects of reduction in output tariffs and input tariffs are separately explored. We focus on the apparel industry. By estimating the Berry‐type demand function, we derive product quality indicators based on the Khandelwal methodology, which enables us to isolate changes in prices from quality upgrading. Our findings are as follows. First, a reduction in output tariffs does not affect product quality upgrading. Second, a reduction in input tariffs boosts quality upgrading in general. In particular, this impact is greater for import plants, as is consistent with our expectation that the source of the boost is the import of high‐quality foreign inputs.
FAIR ALLOCATION WHEN PLAYERS' PREFERENCES ARE UNKNOWN
Authors: Rong Kang
Published: August 2017

Suppose an arbitrator needs to allocate an asset among two players, whose claims on the asset are incompatible. The allocation outcome is said to be fair if the arbitrator awards an outcome that brings the same utility payoff to the two players whenever the two players' claims are symmetric and the allocation set is symmetric. In conjunction with other natural axioms, this fairness requirement implies a unique allocation outcome for any claims problem. We propose a mechanism which can be used by the arbitrator to implement this allocation outcome, even when the players' preferences are unknown to the arbitrator. (JEL C78, D63, J52)
Innovations, ICT and ICT‐driven labour productivity in Poland
Authors: Arendt Lukasz , Grabowski Wojciech
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we describe and develop a two‐step model, based on the CDM approach and the new firm paradigm, to link innovation outputs and ICT to productivity gains, using micro‐level data from 1,000 Polish companies. Our study confirmed the mediating role of innovations and ICT complementarities with respect to productivity gains. However, the main finding is that the strength of this relationship depends on the company's distance to the technological frontier. We show that the more productive a company is, the more important are co‐innovative sources of productivity. Thus, support programmes should also be provided to highly productive companies, which require a higher level of ICT complementarities to boost productivity. This finding may hold true for other CEE countries as well.
Perception of parents and self‐reports of children regarding the impact of traumatic dental injury on quality of life
Authors: Barbosa Neves Érick Tássio , Perazzo Matheus França , Gomes Monalisa Cesarino , Martins Carolina Castro , Paiva Saul Martins , Granville‐Garcia Ana Flávia
Published: August 2017

Background/Aim

Traumatic dental injuries occur frequently among young children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of traumatic dental injuries on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in preschool children using the Scale of Oral Health Outcomes for 5‐year‐old children (SOHO‐5).

Materials and Methods

This study involved 769 five‐year‐old children enrolled at public and private preschools. Two examiners underwent a training process which involved the determination of interexaminer and intra‐examiner agreement (Kappa statistic) for all clinical conditions (K > 0.82). Descriptive statistics were performed, followed by Poisson regression analysis (α = 5%).

Results

The prevalence of the impact of oral problems on OHRQoL was 32.9% and 42.2% according to the parents/caregivers and children, respectively. Based on the children's self‐reports, the occurrence of two or more injured teeth (PR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.04‐1.64), toothache (PR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.35‐2.09), and a low level of parent's schooling (PR = 1.54; 95% CI: 1.24‐1.91) exerted impacts on OHRQoL. For the reports of parents/caregivers, the occurrence of non‐complicated TDI (PR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.44‐0.98), toothache (PR = 8.03; 95% CI: 5.92‐10.88), and a low level of parent's schooling (PR = 1.60; 95% CI: 1.17‐2.17) remained associated with the final model.

Conclusions

The impact of oral problems on the OHRQoL of the preschool children was high. A greater number of injured teeth, the presence of toothache, and socioeconomic factors were associated with poorer OHRQoL, based on the reports of both the parents/caregivers and the children. The occurrence of non‐complicated TDI was a protective factor for OHRQoL.
Caecal intussusception in the horse: Ultrasonographic findings and survival to hospital discharge of 60 cases (2009–2013)
Authors: Paulussen E. , Broux B. , van Bergen T. , Lefère L. , De Clercq D. , van Loon G.
Published: August 2017

Diagnosis of caecal intussusception can be challenging. Transabdominal ultrasound is often used as a diagnostic tool in equine colic. Differentiation between caecocaecal and caecocolic intussusception might be useful in the decision process before surgery. The aims of this study were: 1) to assess the usefulness of ultrasound for diagnosis of intussusception and differentiation between caecocaecal and caecocolic intussusception; and 2) to determine survival to hospital discharge after surgery. Therefore, a retrospective case series (2009–2013) was performed of all colic cases with caecal intussusception (n = 60) confirmed at surgery or necropsy. In all horses, the intussusception could be visualised using ultrasound at admission. Caecocolic intussusception (n = 46) was much more common than caecocaecal (n = 14) intussusception and correct ultrasonographic differentiation between both types could be made in 92% of the cases. Ten horses (out of 14) diagnosed with caecocaecal intussusception underwent surgery, of which 8/10 (80%) were discharged, one horse (10%) was subjected to euthanasia during and one (10%) after surgery. Of the 28 (out of 46) operated horses with caecocolic intussusception, 17 (61%) survived to discharge, while 7 (25%) and 4 (14%) were subjected to euthanasia during and after surgery, respectively. Of all horses that underwent surgery, in 13/38 (34%) surgical reduction was possible, while 13/38 (34%) needed partial typhlectomy and 4/38 (11%) needed colostomy because of an irreducible intussusception. Survival to discharge after successful surgery was 12/13 (92%) when only reduction was performed, 11/13 (85%) if partial typhlectomy was needed and 2/4 (50%) after colostomy and partial typhlectomy. In conclusion, abdominal ultrasound is a useful tool in the diagnosis and differentiation of caecal intussusception. Survival to hospital discharge after successful surgery is good.
Rationale and design of the CANARI study: a case–control study investigating the association between prostate cancer and 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitors for symptomatic benign prostate hypertrophy by linking SNIIRAM and pathology laboratories in a specific region in France
Authors: Scailteux Lucie‐Marie , Balusson Frédéric , Vincendeau Sébastien , Rioux‐Leclercq Nathalie , Nowak Emmanuel
Published: August 2017

Benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) could be associated with low urinary symptoms requiring medical treatment: 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitors (5‐ARI) or ɑ‐blockers. Two clinical trials investigating 5‐ARI use in prostate cancer (PCa) primary prevention highlighted a potential safety signal with an increased risk of high‐grade PCa. Later observational studies failed to show similar results but have some limits. This paper focuses on describing the protocol of the CANARI study and its feasibility, as regards the matching process of two pseudo‐anonymous databases. The study concerned patients living in the Brittany region (France) between 2010 and 2013. We designed a case–control study nested within a cohort of men treated by medical drugs licensed for symptomatic BPH between 2010 and 2011. Cases were patients with incident PCa diagnosed between 2012 and 2013 identified through French Health database (SNIIRAM). Gleason score was searched through Brittany pathology laboratories. Controls were patients without PCa diagnosis. Local pathology laboratories database was constituted in Brittany, gathering Gleason scores. No unique identification number is available in France; linkage of SNIIRAM and Brittany pathology laboratories database was made by deterministic matching. We matched 859 cases to Gleason grading (119 had Gleason score ≥8 and 740 had Gleason <8); around 22% of cases received 5‐ARI and 78% α‐blockers or phytotherapy. The CANARI study investigated in a population of men treated for BPH the risk of PCa with 5‐ARI, according to Gleason grade thanks to SNIIRAM database enriched by local pathological results.
Development and psychometric properties of the Basic Amputee Mobility Score for use in patients with a major lower extremity amputation
Authors: Kristensen Morten Tange , Nielsen Anni Østergaard , Topp Ulla Madsen , Holmehave‐Brandt Jakob , Petterson Charlotte Falkenberg , Gebuhr Peter
Published: August 2017

Aim

To develop and examine the psychometric properties, including responsiveness and interrater reliability, of a new outcome measure for the evaluation of basic mobility activities after a major lower extremity amputation – The Basic Amputee Mobility Score (BAMS).

Methods

The four following essential activities were chosen through consensus meetings with experienced amputee physiotherapists: (i) supine in bed to sitting on the edge of the bed; (ii) bed to wheelchair transfer; (iii) indoor wheelchair mobility; and (iv) get up from a wheelchair to standing on the non‐amputated leg. Each activity is scored from 0 to 2 (0 = not able to; 1 = able to with assistance/guiding; and 2 = independent), and cumulated to a 1‐day BAMS score of 0–8. Validity and responsiveness were established in 106 consecutive in‐hospital patients with a major dysvascular lower extremity amputation, while reliability and agreement were examined in an additional sample of 30 patients.

Results

The 30‐day mortality risk was reduced by 88% (HR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.02–0.68) for those out of bed (BAMS ≥2 points) at the first physiotherapy assessment, while BAMS scores improved between the first and the discharge assessment, with a standardized response mean of 1.3. Reliability assessments resulted in a weighted Kappa value of 0.98, a standard error of measurement of 0.32 and a minimal detectable change of 0.89 points. No systematic between‐rater bias was seen (P = 0.3).

Conclusions

The BAMS was feasible in all patients, and showed a large responsiveness, excellent interrater reliability and with a change of 1 point indicating a real change in performances. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 138–145.
The effect of dental bleaching on pulpal tissue response in a diabetic animal model: a study of immunoregulatory cytokines
Authors: Ferreira L. L. , Gomes‐Filho J. E. , Benetti F. , Carminatti M. , Ervolino E. , Briso A. L. F. , Cintra L. T. A.
Published: August 2017

Aim

To evaluate the influence of tooth bleaching on immunoregulatory cytokines production (IL‐6, Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and IL‐17) in the pulp tissue of normoglycaemic and diabetic rats.

Methodology

Twenty‐eight rats were divided into normoglycaemic and diabetic rats (n = 14). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced with a single dose of alloxan diluted in citrate buffer via intramuscular injection. After DM confirmation, all rats were sedated and tooth bleaching was performed using 35% hydrogen peroxide on the right maxillary molars for 30 min. Left molars were used as controls. Bleaching resulted in four hemimaxillae groups: normoglycaemic (N), N‐bleached (NBle), diabetic (D) and D‐bleached (DBle). After 2 and 30 days, rats were euthanized and hemimaxillae processed for analysis by haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry. Results within and between animals were submitted to Wilcoxon signed‐rank and Mann–Whitney tests (P < 0.05).

Results

At 2 days, the NBle group had mild, and the DBle had severe inflammatory infiltration in the pulpal tissue (P < 0.05). TNF‐α and IL‐6 cytokines were associated with increased immunolabelling in the bleached groups compared to nonbleached (P < 0.05). However, IL‐17 had increased immunolabelling in the NBle compared to the N and DBle group (P < 0.05). At 30 days, reactionary dentine was observed in the coronal pulp of all bleached teeth and no inflammation was present (P > 0.05). TNF‐α cytokines had increased immunolabelling in the DBle group compared to the D group (P < 0.05). However, for IL‐6 and IL‐17, no difference was observed in this period (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Tooth bleaching increased IL‐6 and TNF‐α in the pulp tissue regardless of diabetes mellitus; however, diabetic rats had higher TNF‐α levels for longer periods. Tooth bleaching influenced the increase in IL‐17 in the early periods in normoglycaemic rats.
Technical quality of root canal treatment performed by undergraduate students using hand instrumentation: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Ribeiro D. M. , Réus J. C. , Felippe W. T. , Pacheco‐Pereira C. , Dutra K. L. , Santos J. N. , Porporatti A. L. , De Luca Canto G.
Published: September 2017

The technical quality of root canal treatment (RCT) may impact on the outcome. The quality of education received during undergraduate school may be linked to the quality of treatment provided in general dental practice. In this context, the aim of this systematic review was to answer the following focused questions: (i) What is the frequency of acceptable technical quality of root fillings, assessed radiographically, performed by undergraduate students? (ii) What are the most common errors assessed radiographically and reported in these treatments? For this purpose, articles that evaluated the quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students were selected. Data were collected based on predetermined criteria. The key features from the included studies were extracted. GRADE‐tool assessed the quality of the evidence. MAStARI evaluated the methodological quality, and a meta‐analysis on all studies was conducted. At the end of the screening, 24 articles were identified. Overall frequency of acceptable technical quality of root fillings was 48%. From this total, 52% related to anterior teeth, 49% to premolars and 26% to molars. The main procedural errors reported were ledge formation, furcation perforation, apical transportation and apical perforation. The heterogeneity amongst the studies was high (84–99%). Five studies had a high risk of bias, eight had a moderate risk, and 11 had low risk. The overall quality of evidence identified was very low. The conclusion was that technical quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students is low, which may reveal that endodontic education has limited achievement at undergraduate level. A plan to improve the quality of root fillings, and by extrapolation the overall quality of root canal treatment, should be discussed by the staff responsible for endodontic education and training.
EMPLOYMENT ADJUSTMENT AND LABOR UTILIZATION
Authors: Trapeznikova Ija
Published: August 2017

Standard models of labor adjustment assume that firms can change only the size of their workforce (the extensive margin) and not the number of hours of their existing employees (the intensive margin) in response to shocks. I propose a general equilibrium search model that allows for adjustment on both of these margins. The model includes on‐the‐job search that generates different vacancy filling and attrition rates across firms. I calibrate the model to a unique matched employer–employee panel of Danish firms and simulate two labor market policies aimed at promoting job creation: hiring subsidies and a reduction in the official workweek.
GAINS FROM TRADE
Authors: Chambers Christopher P. , Hayashi Takashi
Published: August 2017

In a social choice context, we ask whether there exists a rule in which nobody loses under trade liberalization. We consider a resource allocation problem in which the traded commodities vary. We propose an axiom stating that enlarging the set of tradable commodities hurts nobody. We show that if a rule satisfies this axiom, together with an allocative efficiency axiom and an institutional constraint axiom stating that only preferences over tradable commodities matter, gains from trade can be given to only one individual in the first step of liberalization.