bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A tale of two countries: all‐cause mortality among people living with HIV and receiving combination antiretroviral therapy in the UK and Canada
Authors: Patterson S , Jose S , Samji H , Cescon A , Ding E , Zhu J , Anderson J , Burchell AN , Cooper C , Hill T , Hull M , Klein MB , Loutfy M , Martin F , Machouf N , Montaner JSG , Nelson M , Raboud J , Rourke SB , Tsoukas C , Hogg RS , Sabin C ,   the Canadian Observational Cohort (CANOC) ‐ UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (UK CHIC) Collaboration
Published: April 2017

Objectives

We sought to compare all‐cause mortality of people living with HIV and accessing care in Canada and the UK.

Methods

Individuals from the Canadian Observational Cohort (CANOC) collaboration and UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (UK CHIC) study who were aged ≥ 18 years, had initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the first time between 2000 and 2012 and who had acquired HIV through sexual transmission were included in the analysis. Cox regression was used to investigate the difference in mortality risk between the two cohort collaborations, accounting for loss to follow‐up as a competing risk.

Results

A total of 19 960 participants were included in the analysis (CANOC, 4137; UK CHIC, 15 823). CANOC participants were more likely to be older [median age 39 years (interquartile range (IQR): 33, 46 years) vs. 36 years (IQR: 31, 43 years) for UK CHIC participants], to be male (86 vs. 73%, respectively), and to report men who have sex with men (MSM) sexual transmission risk (72 vs. 56%, respectively) (all P < 0.001). Overall, 762 deaths occurred during 98 798 person‐years (PY) of follow‐up, giving a crude mortality rate of 7.7 per 1000 PY [95% confidence interval (CI): 7.1, 8.3 per 1000 PY]. The crude mortality rates were 8.6 (95% CI: 7.4, 10.0) and 7.5 (95% CI: 6.9, 8.1) per 1000 PY among CANOC and UK CHIC study participants, respectively. No statistically significant difference in mortality risk was observed between the cohort collaborations in Cox regression accounting for loss to follow‐up as a competing risk (adjusted hazard ratio 0.86; 95% CI: 0.72–1.03).

Conclusions

Despite differences in national HIV care provision and treatment guidelines, mortality risk did not differ between CANOC and UK CHIC study participants who acquired HIV through sexual transmission.
Increased sensibility of mixed ferrite humidity sensors by subsequent heat treatment
Authors: Virlan Constantin , Tudorache Florin , Pui Aurel
Published: April 2017

The study presents the effects of different calcination temperatures on the size and morphology of mixed Co‐Ni ferrites, and the respective changes in the magnetic and electrical properties, with emphasis on their applicability as humidity sensors. The data suggests that the heat treatment does not significantly change the magnetic properties, but significant variations on the morphology of the nanoparticles, correlated with large changes in the electrical properties of the nanoparticles in terms of electrical permittivity and resistivity with electrical field frequency and humidity, with a clear influence of the calcination temperature over the sensibility of the materials to humidity.
Consumer creativity influenced by hope, integral emotions and socio‐economic status
Authors: Trujillo Carlos Andres , Rosa Jose Antonio
Published: April 2017

Low socio economic stratum (SES) consumers face constrains that engender creativity as they try to solve consumption problems using the scant products and services available by repurposing such products. This research investigates mechanisms by which hope and integral emotions interact with SES to influence consumer creativity. Experiments with low and high SES participants in an emerging economy show that when hope is enhanced, positive integral emotions are directed to creativity by all consumers, but when hope is diminished, positive integral emotions are not consistently directed to creativity. SES exerts a moderating role when hope is diminished, and only high SES participants are able to cope with the absence of hope by redirecting dominance feelings to creativity. Results suggest that increasing hope among low SES consumers can enhance their creativity, and that hope can be enhanced through actions undertaken by companies and public organizations.
Controversies in the diagnosis of Type 1 von Willebrand disease
Authors: Bowman M. L. , James P. D.
Published: April 2017

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common bleeding disorder. Type 1 VWD represents the majority of cases and results from a partial quantitative deficiency of von Willebrand factor (VWF). The diagnosis of Type 1 VWD presents many challenges, despite there being three established diagnostic criteria: a personal history of mucocutaneous bleeding, a family history and low VWF levels. These criteria do not always coexist, and there is great overlap of clinical phenotypes and laboratory parameters between healthy individuals and those with VWD. Mild bleeding symptoms can have any number of causes and bleeding is commonly reported in the general population. VWF levels do not always correlate with bleeding symptoms and can be variable between affected family members. Additionally, VWF levels vary widely as a result of both genetic and non‐genetic influences. Perhaps the greatest current controversy in the diagnosis of Type 1 VWD is that there is no consensus laboratory cut‐off for the diagnosis, raising concern about both over‐ and under‐diagnosis. Ongoing studies are addressing these issues by clarifying the underlying pathogenesis of the disease, as well as the natural history and the risk of future bleeding in those with the diagnosis.
Clinical decision support for hematology laboratory test utilization
Authors: Jackups R. , Szymanski J. J. , Persaud S. P.
Published: April 2017

Clinical decision support (CDS) is the use of information and communication technologies to improve clinical decision making and patient care. CDS applications have been used in many aspects of health care, including medication ordering and diagnostic prediction algorithms. As economic and regulatory pressures place a strain on laboratory resources, the potential of CDS to improve utilization of laboratory testing has also begun to be realized. Hematology and coagulation laboratories stand to gain tremendously from the implementation of CDS interventions, given their mixture of high‐volume, low‐cost tests (eg CBC, PT, aPTT) and tests that carry a high potential of being misused or misinterpreted (eg lupus anticoagulant, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia testing). This brief review will define the key terms in the field of clinical decision support, provide instructive examples of CDS interventions to improve utilization of hematology and coagulation testing, introduce methods to implement these interventions effectively, and discuss metrics by which the success of these interventions can be evaluated.
The prenatal gut microbiome: are we colonized with bacteria in utero?
Authors: Walker R. W. , Clemente J. C. , Peter I. , Loos R. J. F.
Published: April 2017

The colonization of the gut with microbes in early life is critical to the developing newborn immune system, metabolic function and potentially future health. Maternal microbes are transmitted to offspring during childbirth, representing a key step in the colonization of the infant gut. Studies of infant meconium suggest that bacteria are present in the foetal gut prior to birth, meaning that colonization could occur prenatally. Animal studies have shown that prenatal transmission of microbes to the foetus is possible, and physiological changes observed in pregnant mothers indicate that in utero transfer is likely in humans as well. However, direct evidence of in utero transfer of bacteria in humans is lacking. Understanding the timing and mechanisms involved in the first colonization of the human gut is critical to a comprehensive understanding of the early life gut microbiome. This review will discuss the evidence supporting in utero transmission of microbes from mother to infants. We also review sources of transferred bacteria, physiological mechanisms of transfer and modifiers of maternal microbiomes and their potential role in early life infant health. Well‐designed longitudinal birth studies that account for established modifiers of the gut microbiome are challenging, but will be necessary to confirm in utero transfer and further our knowledge of the prenatal microbiome.
The social security number: A small device underpinning big systems
Authors: Adèle Paul‐Anthelme
Published: April 2017

The possession and use of a personal social security number helps to structure people's daily lives. However, despite its fundamental normative importance, the social security number remains a little‐known entity. Increasingly universal and yet diverse in form, it is a legal and technical norm which is as much a mechanism for surveillance and monitoring as it is a necessary instrument for giving effect to social rights. Analysis of this constituent element of social security systems permits as assessment of some of the technical difficulties presented by the ever‐increasing movement of people and data. Overcoming these technical difficulties should permit to envisage a first technical step towards realizing a universal and global social security system.
The effect of adult Early Warning Systems education on nurses’ knowledge, confidence and clinical performance: A systematic review
Authors: Saab Mohamad M. , McCarthy Bridie , Andrews Tom , Savage Eileen , Drummond Frances J. , Walshe Nuala , Forde Mary , Breen Dorothy , Henn Patrick , Drennan Jonathan , Hegarty Josephine
Published: April 2017

Aims

This review aims to determine the effect of adult Early Warning Systems education on nurses’ knowledge, confidence and clinical performance.

Background

Early Warning Systems support timely identification of clinical deterioration and prevention of avoidable deaths. Several educational programmes have been designed to help nurses recognize and manage deteriorating patients. Little is known as to the effectiveness of these programmes.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Psychology and Behavioral Science Collection, SocINDEX and the UK & Ireland Reference Centre, EMBASE, the Turning Research Into Practice database, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and Grey Literature sources were searched between October and November 2015.

Review methods

This is a quantitative systematic review using Cochrane methods. Studies published between January 2011 ‐ November 2015 in English were sought. The risk of bias, level of evidence and the quality of evidence per outcome were assessed.

Results

Eleven articles with 10 studies were included. Nine studies addressed clinical performance, four addressed knowledge and two addressed confidence. Knowledge, vital signs recording and Early Warning Score calculation were improved in the short term. Two interventions had no effect on nurses’ response to clinical deterioration and use of communication tools.

Conclusion

This review highlights the importance of measuring outcomes using standardized tools and valid and reliable instruments. Using longitudinal designs, researchers are encouraged to investigate the effect of Early Warning Systems educational programmes. These can include interactive e‐learning, on‐site interdisciplinary Early Warning Scoring systems training sessions and simulated scenarios.
Readiness for hospital discharge: A concept analysis
Authors: Galvin Eileen Catherine , Wills Teresa , Coffey Alice
Published: April 2017

Aim

To report on an analysis on the concept of ‘readiness for hospital discharge’.

Background

No uniform operational definition of ‘readiness for hospital discharge’ exists in the literature; therefore, a concept analysis is required to clarify the concept and identify an up‐to‐date understanding of readiness for hospital discharge. Clarity of the concept will identify all uses of the concept; provide conceptual clarity, an operational definition and direction for further research.

Design

Literature review and concept analysis.

Method

A review of literature was conducted in 2016. Databases searched were: Academic Search Complete, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, PsycARTICLES, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, PsycINFO, Social Sciences Full Text (H.W. Wilson) and SocINDEX with Full Text. No date limits were applied.

Results

Identification of the attributes, antecedents and consequences of readiness for hospital discharge led to an operational definition of the concept. The following attributes belonging to ‘readiness for hospital discharge’ were extracted from the literature: physical stability, adequate support, psychological ability, and adequate information and knowledge.

Conclusion

This analysis contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the area of hospital discharge, by proposing an operational definition of readiness for hospital discharge, derived from the literature. A better understanding of the phenomenon will assist healthcare professionals to recognize, measure and implement interventions where necessary, to ensure patients are ready for hospital discharge and assist in the advancement of knowledge for all professionals involved in patient discharge from hospital.
Who Cares? European Public Opinion on Foreign Aid and Political Conditionality
Authors: Bodenstein Thilo , Faust Jörg
Published: April 2017

We provide evidence on the individual and country‐level determinants of citizens' support for political conditionality in foreign aid, using novel survey data for 27 European countries. Based on the welfare state literature and existing public opinion research in foreign aid, we expect citizens with more rightist political orientations as well as those who do not perceive their own state apparatus to function in a meritocratic way to be more likely to support political conditionality. Our multi‐level analysis supports these hypotheses in general, but also shows that the effect of political orientations on support for political conditionality in foreign aid is limited to traditional EU donor countries, where the left/right‐cleavage has been dominant in politics.
Consensus statement on prevention and management of adverse effects following rejuvenation procedures with hyaluronic acid‐based fillers
Authors: Philipp‐Dormston W.G. , Bergfeld D. , Sommer B.M. , Sattler G. , Cotofana S. , Snozzi P. , Wollina U. , Hoffmann K.P.J. , Salavastru C. , Fritz K.
Published: April 2017

Facial fillers play an important role in the correction of facial changes associated with ageing. They offer quick treatments in the outpatient setting with minimal subsequent downtime that provide predictable, natural‐looking, long‐lasting results. Adverse reactions after hyaluronic acid injections tend to be mild or moderate and rather temporary. However, as with all injected or implanted biomaterials, severe adverse events can occur and patients must be fully informed of potential risks prior to undergoing treatment. A panel of experts from Germany (D), Austria (A) and Switzerland (CH) developed recommendations, and this study provides the ‘DACH Consensus Recommendations’ from this group specifically on the use of hyaluronic acid fillers. The aim is to help clinicians recognize potential risks and to provide guidance on how best to treat adverse events if they arise. Contraindications to hyaluronic acid fillers are also detailed, and ways to prevent adverse events occurring are discussed. Hyaluronic acid‐based products are claimed to be very close to an ideal tissue augmentation agent; nevertheless, profound medical, anatomical and product knowledge are of paramount importance to minimize the occurrence of adverse reactions.
A bacterium with close genetic identity to Pseudomonas mandelii associated with spring fish kills in wild bluegill Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque and pumpkinseed sunfish Lepomis gibbosus (Linnaeus)
Authors: Lovy J , Dicarlo‐Emery D , Hutcheson J M
Published: April 2017

Pseudomonas fluorescens are known bacterial pathogens in fish. The P. fluorescens group contains at least nine different bacterial species, although species from fish have rarely been differentiated. Two isolated fish kills affecting wild bluegills, Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque, and pumpkinseed sunfish, Lepomis gibbosus (Linnaeus), occurred in the spring of 2015 during cool water temperatures (12.5°C–15.5°C). Disease signs included severe bacteraemia with rare gross external signs. Pure bacterial cultures isolated from kidneys of all affected fish were identified as P. fluorescens using the API 20NE system, while no bacteria were isolated from asymptomatic fish. To further identify the species of bacterium within the P. fluorescens complex, genetic analysis of the 16S rRNA, rpoD and gyrB genes was conducted. DNA sequences of bacterial isolates from both mortality events were identical and had close identity (≥99.7%) to Pseudomonas mandelii. Although likely widespread in the aquatic environment, this is the first report of a bacterium closely resembling P. mandelii infecting and causing disease in fish. The bacterium grew at temperatures between 5°C and 30°C, but not at 37°C. It is possible that infections in fish were a result of immunosuppression associated with spring conditions combined with the psychrotrophic nature of the bacterium.
Impact of right and left ventricular systolic dysfunction on perioperative outcome and long‐term survival after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Griese Daniel P. , Kerber Sebastian , Barth Sebastian , Diegeler Anno , Babin‐Ebell Jörg , Reents Wilko
Published: April 2017

Background

Aim of the study was to determine the impact of right‐ and left‐ventricular systolic dysfunction on perioperative outcome and long‐term survival after TAVR.

Methods

Study population consisted of 702 TAVRs between 2009 and 2014, 345 by TF, 357 by TA route. RV and LV function were determined by TAPSE and LVEF measurement during baseline echocardiography. Patients were divided according to TAPSE (>18 mm/14‐18 mm/<14 mm) and LVEF (>50%/30‐50%/<30%) tertiles. Outcome at day‐30 and Kaplan‐Meier 4‐year survival were analyzed.

Results

Impaired RV and LV‐function did not adversely affect mortality, stroke, bleeding, and vascular‐complications at 30 days. Patients with TAPSE < 14 mm displayed elevated rate of renal failure requiring dialysis (11%; P < 0.01). Kaplan‐Meier survival was adversely affected by RV‐systolic dysfunction RVSD (P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed that impaired RVSD but not LVSD was an independent determinant for late mortality (hazard ratio TAPSE 14‐18 mm: 1.53; P = 0.02; TAPSE <14 mm: 2.12; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Peri‐operative mortality and risk of stroke after TAVR are not adversely affected by preexisting RV or LV dysfunction. Long‐term survival is impaired in patients with RVSD. RVSD but not LVSD is an independent risk factor for late mortality. TAVR should be the preferred therapy for patients with RVSD and LVSD, especially when patient is suitable for TF.
Real‐life data regarding acute procedural success and 1‐year clinical outcome of desolve bioresorbable scaffolds
Authors: Gunes Haci Murat , Gokdeniz Tayyar , Kizilirmak Yilmaz Filiz , Demir Gultekin Gunhan , Guler Ekrem , Babur Guler Gamze , Karaca Oğuz , Cakal Beytullah , Omaygenç Mehmet Onur , İbişoğlu Ersin , Boztosun Bilal
Published: April 2017

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the peri‐procedural success of DESolve bio‐resorbable scaffolds (BRSs) and analyzed real‐life data about major cardiac events during 1‐year follow‐up.

Background

There is little information about real‐life data of DESolve BRS which is a novel stent technology offering various advantages over drug eluting stents and commonly used in daily cardiology practice.

Methods

We conducted this single‐center and non‐randomized cross‐sectional study from June 2015 through August 2016 in Medipol University Department of Cardiology and included 117 patients undergoing single or multivessel percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) with novolimus‐eluting BRS devices (152 scaffolds) (Elixir Medical Corporation). Study end points were acute device and procedural success, scaffold thrombosis and major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rates of DESolve BRS.

Results

Device success was 96.7% and procedural success was 99.3%. We detected MACE rate as 0.9% while clinical‐driven target lesion revascularization was performed in one patient. None of the patients experienced scaffold thrombosis or death. Peri‐procedural complications were reported in three patients.

Conclusions

High rates of successful scaffold implantations, low rates of peri‐procedural complications, and major cardiac events in long‐term suggest that DESolve scaffolds can safely and effectively be used in daily intervention practice by particularly experienced operators.
Payment Card Interchange Fees and Price Discrimination
Authors: Ding Rong , Wright Julian
Published: April 2017

We consider the implications of platform price discrimination in the context of card platforms. Despite the platform's ability to price discriminate, we show that it will set fees for card usage that are too low, resulting in excessive usage of cards. We show this bias remains even if card fees (or rewards) can be conditioned on each type of retailer that the cardholder transacts with. We use our model to consider the European Commission's objection to the rules card platforms have used to sustain differential interchange fees across European countries.
The Meteoritical Bulletin, No. 103
Authors: Ruzicka Alex , Grossman Jeffrey , Bouvier Audrey , Agee Carl B.
Published: April 2017

Meteoritical Bulletin 103 contains 2582 meteorites including 10 falls (Ardón, Demsa, Jinju, Križevci, Kuresoi, Novato, Tinajdad, Tirhert, Vicência, Wolcott), with 2174 ordinary chondrites, 130 HED achondrites, 113 carbonaceous chondrites, 41 ureilites, 27 lunar meteorites, 24 enstatite chondrites, 21 iron meteorites, 15 primitive achondrites, 11 mesosiderites, 10 Martian meteorites, 6 Rumuruti chondrites, 5 ungrouped achondrites, 2 enstatite achondrites, 1 relict meteorite, 1 pallasite, and 1 angrite, and with 1511 from Antarctica, 588 from Africa, 361 from Asia, 86 from South America, 28 from North America, and 6 from Europe. Note: 1 meteorite from Russia was counted as European. The complete contents of this bulletin (244 pages) are available on line. Information about approved meteorites can be obtained from the Meteoritical Bulletin Database (MBD) available on line at http://www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/.
Premastication and length for age among children under 24 months in Laos
Authors: Conkle Joel , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Young Melissa , Stein Aryeh D.
Published: April 2017

Premastication of infant food by caregivers is common in Laos. Premastication is hypothesized to have both positive and negative implications for children, but the net effect of premastication on child health and nutrition is largely unknown because of a lack of research. This study quantitatively describes premastication in 5 provinces of Laos and examines the associations between premastication and the length of young children. We analyzed cross‐sectional data from the Laos 2015 Food and Nutrition Security Survey to characterize premastication among children under 2 years of age (n = 1,661) and to test associations between premastication and child length‐for‐age z‐score. We explored associations using multilevel mixed effects linear regression. Among children 0–23 months, 27.2% of mothers reported giving premasticated food in the past week. Receipt of premasticated food was inversely associated with length‐for‐age z‐score after controlling for potential confounders (child's age, ethno‐linguistic group, wealth, and parity) among children 6–13 months (β −0.36, CI [−0.68, −0.04]) and among children 14–23 months (β −0.43, CI [−0.81, −0.05]). For breastfed children 0–5 months who received complementary food, the coefficient was similar, but the association was not statistically significant (β −0.42, CI [−1.2, 0.37]). Premastication is a common feeding practice for children 0–23 months of age, and many infants consume premasticated food on a daily basis. There was a negative relationship between premastication and child length. However, given the cross‐sectional nature of this study and potential unmeasured confounding factors, reverse causality or confounding cannot be ruled out. Longitudinal studies are needed to develop recommendations on premastication.
Calcium and electrical signaling in arterial endothelial tubes: New insights into cellular physiology and cardiovascular function
Authors: Behringer Erik J.
Published: April 2017

The integral role of the endothelium during the coordination of blood flow throughout vascular resistance networks has been recognized for several decades now. Early examination of the distinct anatomy and physiology of the endothelium as a signaling conduit along the vascular wall has prompted development and application of an intact endothelial “tube” study model isolated from rodent skeletal muscle resistance arteries. Vasodilatory signals such as increased endothelial cell (EC) Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and hyperpolarization take place in single ECs while shared between electrically coupled ECs through gap junctions up to distances of millimeters (≥2 mm). The small‐ and intermediate‐conductance Ca2+ activated K+ (SKCa/IKCa or KCa2.3/KCa3.1) channels function at the interface of Ca2+ signaling and hyperpolarization; a bidirectional relationship whereby increases in [Ca2+]i activate SKCa/IKCa channels to produce hyperpolarization and vice versa. Further, the spatial domain of hyperpolarization among electrically coupled ECs can be finely tuned via incremental modulation of SKCa/IKCa channels to balance the strength of local and conducted electrical signals underlying vasomotor activity. Multifunctional properties of the voltage‐insensitive SKCa/IKCa channels of resistance artery endothelium may be employed for therapy during the aging process and development of vascular disease.
Treatment effects of Reverse Twin‐Block and Reverse Pull Face Mask on craniofacial morphology in early and late mixed dentition children
Authors: Fareen N. , Alam M. K. , Khamis M. F. , Mokhtar N.
Published: April 2017

Structured Abstract

Objective

Reverse Twin‐Block (RTB) and Reverse Pull Face Mask (RPFM) appliances are used to correct Class III malocclusion in growing patients. Aim of this retrospective study was to compare and analyse craniofacial changes produced by RTB and RPFM in the early and late mixed dentition in Malay children with Class III malocclusion.

Methods

Data consisted of pre‐ and post‐treatment lateral cephalograms of 95 children, 49 patients with RTB and 46 patients with RPFM, divided into an early (8‐9 year) and late (10‐11 year) group. Treatment changes were assessed by the Ricketts analysis using CASSOS software, where 71 anatomic landmarks were identified in each cephalogram. Paired and independent t tests were performed for statistical comparison.

Results

Paired t test revealed significant changes in facial axis, facial angle, MD plane to FH, lower facial height, mandibular arc, maxillary convexity, U1 to APog, L1 to APog, L1 to APog angle and upper lip to E‐plane measurements in RPFM, whereas significant changes were found in facial taper, U1 to APog and lower lip to E‐plane values with RTB in the early treatment group. Independent t test revealed significant changes in U1 to APog, L1 to APog and U6 to PtV values in the RTB group. Post‐treatment comparison of RTB and RPFM showed significant differences in L1 to APog and L1 to APog angle values.

Conclusions

RPFM revealed more favourable craniofacial changes than RTB, particularly in the late mixed dentition stage.
Scattering contribution to the double‐pass PSF using Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Christaras Dimitrios , Ginis Harilaos , Pennos Alexandros , Artal Pablo
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Scattering in the eye occurs mainly at two sites: the eye's optical media and the deeper retinal layers. Although the two phenomena are often treated collectively, their spatial domain of contribution to the double‐pass Point Spread Function (PSF) is different: the fundus effect is limited to the narrow and middle part of the PSF whereas scattering in the eye's optics extends also to wide angles. The objective of this work was to determine the domain of contribution at the double‐pass PSF of light scattered in the ocular media and the ocular fundus, using simulated and experimental data for two different wavelengths and for two different pigmentations.

Methods

Diffuse reflection was simulated using Monte Carlo simulations for a four‐layer retinal fundus model. Four situations were simulated in total for two different choroidal absorptions at two different wavelengths. Light diffusion in the fundus was the only phenomenon considered in the model. The simulations were compared against experimental fundus reflection data obtained in a previous study.

Results

The simulations showed that at 560 nm, diffusion in the fundus causes light to extend to a radius of 2°, independently of the choroidal pigmentation, whereas at 650 nm it extends to radii of 4.5° and 4° for low and high choroidal pigmentation respectively. Experimental data showed a similar behaviour at low angles where light diffusion in the fundus is dominant, but different at higher angles due to scattering in the ocular media.

Conclusion

The spatial contribution of light diffused in the ocular fundus to the PSF was found to be limited to narrower angles compared to that of scattering at the ocular media. The comparison of simulated and optical data showed that beyond 2° at 560 nm and 4–4.5° at 650 nm the only phenomenon contributing to the PSF is scattering in the ocular media, whereas the fundus contribution can be assumed as negligible.
LncRNA‐H19 Modulates Wnt/β‐catenin Signaling by Targeting Dkk4 in Hindlimb Unloaded Rat
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Jun , Zhao Jie , Ma Jian‐xiong , Jia Hao‐bo , Zhang Yang , Xing Guo‐sheng , Ma Xin‐long
Published: April 2017

Objective

To investigate the biological functions of long noncoding RNA‐H19 (H19) in the pathogenesis of disuse osteoporosis (DOP).

Methods

Fifty‐four male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups: baseline control (BC, 6), age‐matched control (AC, 24), and hindlimb unloading (HLU, 24). The rats in the BC group were sacrificed at the beginning of the experiment, while the AC and HLU rats were sacrificed at different times (7, 14, 21 and 28 days after HLU). The DOP model was verified by micro‐CT scan, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was used to quantify the expression of osteogenic genes (OPG, RunX2 and OPG). Gene sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were performed to find H19 target genes and the associated signaling pathway, which were first verified on tissue samples. Further verification was performed by knocking down the H19 and related gene in rat osteoblast cell line (UMR106 cell). Then, the changes of associated signaling pathway and osteogenic function were examined to confirm the prediction of the bioinformatic analysis.

Results

Micro‐CT scans and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) tests showed progressively deteriorated trabecular bone and decreased level of osteogenic genes in the metaphysis of distal femur during HLU, indicating the successful establishment of a DOP model. According to RNA sequencing, 1351 mRNA and 464 lncRNA were abnormally expressed in response to mechanical unloading, in which the H19 decreased 2.86 fold in HLU rats. There were 1426 mRNA predicted to be the target genes of H19, and KEGG pathway analysis suggested that Wnt signaling pathway (Wnt signaling) was the top pathway responsible for these target genes. In the Wnt‐associated genes targeted by H19, 11 were differentially expressed between HLU and AC rats, among which Dkk4 increased 2.44 fold in HLU rats when compared to normal controls. These results of sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were confirmed by the low expression of H19, overexpression of Dkk4 and inhibited Wnt signaling observed in DOP rats. Subsequent in vitro cell assay further demonstrated that knockdown of H19 led to upregulation of Dkk4, and inhibition of Wnt signaling and osteogenic function in UMR106 cell. These effects can be greatly reversed after application of knocking down Dkk4.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that low expression of H19, induced by mechanical unloading, leads to development of DOP through inhibition of Wnt signaling by promoting Dkk4 expression.
Genetic variability of Meloidogyne paranaensis populations and their aggressiveness to susceptible coffee genotypes
Authors: Santos M. F. A. , Correa V. R. , Peixoto J. R. , Mattos V. S. , Silva J. G. P. , Moita A. W. , Salgado S. M. L. , Castagnone‐Sereno P. , Carneiro R. M. D. G.
Published: April 2017

Meloidogyne paranaensis is one of the most destructive root‐knot nematode (RKN) species parasitizing coffee in Brazil and in the Americas generally. The objectives of this study were to assess the genetic variability, aggressiveness and virulence of seven different M. paranaensis populations on susceptible and resistant Coffea spp. All seven RKN populations were identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Coffee seedlings were inoculated in the greenhouse, and the nematode reproduction factor was used to infer their reproduction on coffee genotypes. Phylogenetic studies showed a low genetic variability in M. paranaensis populations, regardless of the existence of three esterase phenotypes (Est P1, P2 and P2a), except for the population Est P2a from Guatemala, which is genetically different from other M. paranaensis populations from Brazil. The Est P2a and Est P2 (Herculândia, SP, Brazil) populations were the most aggressive on two susceptible C. arabica cultivars under greenhouse conditions. None of the M. paranaensis populations were virulent on resistant coffee genotypes, confirming their resistance to the seven M. paranaensis populations tested. The resistant coffee cultivars, namely Clone 14 INCAPER, Catuaí Vermelho × Amphillo MR2161 (E1 16‐5 III), Apoatã IAC 2258, Timor Hybrid UFV 408‐01 (E1 6‐6 II) and IPR 100, exhibited segregation for resistance in the ratio of 0%, 2.4%, 12%, 26% and 29%, respectively. These are promising results, because they validate resistance against several M. paranaensis populations in different Coffea spp. genetic resources, which can be used in breeding programmes or as rootstocks, such as Apoatã IAC 2258 and Clone 14 INCAPER.
Jean‐Luc Nancy and the “exit from religion”
Authors: Eaghll Tenzan
Published: April 2017

This article provides an introduction to Jean‐Luc Nancy's project on the “deconstruction of Christianity” by situating his work philosophically and historically. The author explains that Nancy's work on religion does not provide a new “theory” for the study of religion but shows how Western religious and philosophical foundations are caught up in a process of decomposition that has been brought about by Christianity. Strictly speaking, Nancy's work is not even an analysis of religion but builds upon the broader critique of metaphysical nihilism that thinkers like Nietzsche, Heidegger, and Derrida have taken up in the past.
How does burnout impact the three components of nursing professional commitment?
Authors: Chang Hao‐Yuan , Shyu Yea‐Ing Lotus , Wong May‐Kuen , Chu Tsung‐Lan , Lo Yuan‐Yu , Teng Ching‐I
Published: April 2017

Background

While the impact of burnout on organisational commitment has been widely observed, its impact on nursing professional commitment has not previously been investigated. The literature has clarified that professional commitment has three distinct components: affective, continuance and normative.

Aims

This study aims to investigate the relationships between burnout and the three components of nursing professional commitment.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study using questionnaires to collect data in one large medical centre. Responses from 571 nurses were used for regression analysis. Among the sampled nurses, 90.9% had <15 years of nursing experience. MBI‐HSS was used for measuring burnout. Three components of nursing professional commitment came from Meyer et al. (J Appl Psychol, 78, 1993 and 538) a formally validated instrument.

Results

Analytical results indicated that burnout is negatively related to affective and normative professional commitment (B ≤ −0.09, p < 0.01), but not related to continuance professional commitment (B = 0.05, p > 0.05).

Linking evidence to action

Nurse managers aiming to improve nurses’ professional commitment should consider reducing nurses’ burnout, for example improving nursing optimism and reducing administrative tasks, as suggested by the literature.
Overexpression of a type‐I isopentenyl pyrophosphate isomerase of Artemisia annua in the cytosol leads to high arteannuin B production and artemisinin increase
Authors: Ma Dongming , Li Gui , Alejos‐Gonzalez Fatima , Zhu Yue , Xue Zhen , Wang Aimin , Zhang Hui , Li Xing , Ye Hechun , Wang Hong , Liu Benye , Xie De‐Yu
Published: April 2017

We recently characterized a gene–terpene network that is associated with artemisinin biosynthesis in self‐pollinated (SP) Artemisia annua, an effective antimalarial plant. We hypothesize that an alteration of gene expression in the network may improve the production of artemisinin and its precursors. In this study, we cloned an isopentenyl pyrophosphate isomerase (IPPI) cDNA, AaIPPI1, from Artemisia annua (Aa). The full‐length cDNA encodes a type‐I IPPI containing a plastid transit peptide (PTP) at its amino terminus. After the removal of the PTP, the recombinant truncated AaIPPI1 isomerized isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) to dimethyl allyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) and vice versa. The steady‐state equilibrium ratio of IPP/DMAPP in the enzymatic reactions was approximately 1:7. The truncated AaIPPI1 was overexpressed in the cytosol of the SP A. annua variety. The leaves of transgenic plants produced approximately 4% arteannuin B (g g−1, dry weight, dw) and 0.17–0.25% artemisinin (g g−1, dw), the levels of which were significantly higher than those in the leaves of wild‐type plants. In addition, transgenic plants showed an increase in artemisinic acid production of more than 1% (g g−1, dw). In contrast, isoprene formation was significantly reduced in transgenic plants. These results provide evidence that overexpression of AaIPPI1 in the cytosol can lead to metabolic alterations of terpenoid biosynthesis, and show that these transgenic plants have the potential to yield high production levels of arteannuin B as a new precursor source for artemisinin.
Detection and identification of platelet antibodies using a sensitive multiplex assay system–platelet antibody bead array
Authors: Metzner Krista , Bauer Julie , Ponzi Heather , Ujcich Allison , Curtis Brian R.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Tests for platelet‐specific antibodies are important in the diagnosis of immune platelet disorders. Monoclonal antibody glycoprotein capture assays have been the gold standards in platelet antibody detection for almost 30 years. However, such assays are complex and cumbersome to perform, which limits their routine use. We report the performance of a newly developed, easy to perform platelet antibody bead array (PABA) for the detection of platelet‐specific antibodies.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

PABA is the equivalent of the monoclonal antigen capture enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (MACE) on a bead and instead with fluorescent detection of immunoglobulin (Ig)G platelet antibodies by Luminex. Antibodies against platelet glycoproteins (GP) GPIIb/IIIa, GPIb/IX, GPIa/IIa, GPIV, and class I human leukocyte antigen (HLA) could be detected in a patient's serum simultaneously in a single well of a microplate. Results from 80 patient samples and 20 normal donor samples were compared using PABA, MACE, and a commercial ELISA kit.

RESULTS

PABA detected all antibodies, with specificity for human platelet antigens (HPAs) HPA‐1a, HPA‐1b, HPA‐2a, HPA‐2b, HPA‐3a, HPA‐3b, HPA‐4a, HPA‐4b, HPA‐5a, HPA‐5b, HPA‐15b, and HLA. Overall, compared with MACE, the sensitivity and specificity of PABA were 99% and 97%, respectively, and both were significantly better than those of the commercial ELISA. PABA had greater analytic sensitivity than MACE for HPA‐1a, HPA‐3a, and HPA‐5b antibodies. In addition, PABA detected HPA‐5b and HPA‐3b antibodies that were missed by MACE. The overall false‐positive rate of PABA compared with MACE was 2.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The PABA is a rapid, highly sensitive and specific, multiplex bead‐based assay for detecting human platelet antibodies. Such a simple yet high‐throughput platform will facilitate practical, routine testing for the identification of platelet‐specific antibodies.
Biologic variability of cardiac troponin I in healthy dogs and dogs with different stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease using standard and high‐sensitivity immunoassays
Authors: Winter Randolph L. , Saunders Ashley B. , Gordon Sonya G. , Miller Matthew W. , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: April 2017

Background

Biologic variability (BV) is one aspect of interpreting changes in biomarker concentrations known to be clinically important in people with cardiac disease, but it has not been adequately addressed in dogs so far.

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to determineBVof cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in healthy dogs and dogs with 3 stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Methods

Healthy dogs and dogs with 3 stages ofMMVDwere prospectively assigned to groups based on comprehensive clinical evaluation using current guidelines. Concentrations ofcTnIwere measured hourly, daily, and weekly using standard and high‐sensitivity immunoassays. Within‐ (CVI) and between‐subject (CVG) coefficients of variability, percent reference change value (RCV), and index of individuality (IoI) were calculated.

Results

All 10 healthy dogs and 76/112 (68%) of samples from 28MMVDdogs hadcTnIconcentrations below the limit of detection (LOD) using a standard sensitivity immunoassay. Only 49/160 (31%) of healthy dog samples and noMMVDsamples hadcTnIbelow the high‐sensitivity immunoassayLOD. Data analysis for the high‐sensitivity immunoassay revealedCVIof 48.1%,CVGof 60.1%,RCVof 134.0%, and IoI of 0.804 in healthy dogs. InMMVDdogs,CVIwas 39.6%,CVGwas 80.7%,RCVwas 110%, and IoI was 0.494. Of allMMVDdogs, those with Stage B2 had the lowestRCVof 91%.

Conclusions

Biologic variability affectscTnIconcentrations in healthy dogs and dogs withMMVD. Consideration of BV may be clinically relevant when monitoring individual changes incTnIvalues, using high‐sensitivity immunoassays.
Scleromyxoedema in a dog
Authors: Laprais Aurore F. , Bizikova Petra , Lashnits Erin W. , Tucker Alison , Linder Keith E.
Published: April 2017

Background

In humans, scleromyxoedema is a chronic progressive skin condition traditionally characterized by deposits of mucin, increased number of fibroblasts and fibrosis in the skin, and by systemic disease. Thyroid disease is typically absent. A monoclonal gammopathy is usually present, as are other comorbidities. Descriptions of scleromyxoedema in the veterinary literature are limited to a single feline case. One dog, previously reported as having papular mucinosis, exhibited features that matched the more current diagnostic criteria of scleromyxoedema.

Objectives

To describe generalized papular mucinosis in a dog with systemic illness and to compare the signs with those of human lichen myxoedematosus conditions, specifically scleromyxoedema.

Results

A nine‐year‐old female, spayed English springer spaniel dog presented with generalized papules and nodules (0.5–5 cm) on the body and proximal fore and hind limbs, sparing the face and distal limbs distal to carpi/tarsi. Larger nodules were erythematous. Nodules occurred in proximal limb muscles. The dog had concurrent osteoarthritis of the elbows and coxofemoral joints, developed generalized weakness, declined in health and was euthanized. Thyroid disease was lacking and a monoclonal gammopathy was not present. Histopathological evaluation revealed the classic triad of mucin, fibroblast proliferation and fibrosis with very mild inflammation, as described for humans.

Conclusion and clinical importance

We document scleromyxoedema in a dog with significant morbidity and features of the human disease. Recognizing the typical histopathology is important for identifying cases and to establish a diagnosis. Systemic evaluation is important to identify evidence of internal disease and associated comorbidities, which are common, variable, and impact classification and prognosis in humans.
Restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing allows for the rapid identification of simple sequence repeat markers in Echinochloa crus‐galli
Authors: Chen Guoqi , Zhang Wei , Fang Jiangpeng , Dong Liyao
Published: April 2017

Echinochloa crus‐galli is a serious weed worldwide. Microsatellite markers (simple sequence repeats, SSRs) are important molecular markers that are used widely for studying genetic diversity in plants. However, a limited number of SSRs is available for E. crus‐galli. The restriction site‐associated DNA (RAD) sequencing approach was combined with Illumina DNA sequencing for the rapid and mass detection of SSRs in E. crus‐galli. The RAD tags were generated from the genomic DNA of E. crus‐galli and were sequenced in order to produce 6921.6 Mb of high‐quality sequences with 45.1% guanine–cytosine content. In total, 3081 putative SSRs were detected, of which 82.2% were dinucleotide motif‐repeats. AT was the most frequent motif, accounting for 35.0% of the SSRs. In order to test the validity of the SSRs that were developed here, eight SSRs that were selected from putative SSRs were used to study the genetic diversity and structures of 20 E. crus‐galli populations that had been collected from rice fields in eastern China. Ninety‐seven alleles were amplified from the eight microsatellite loci among the 20 E. crus‐galli populations. These populations showed low genetic diversity and were classified on the basis of their genetic structures into three distinct groups that corresponded to the three regions of population sampling. The SSRs that were identified in this study represent a valuable resource for studying the genetic diversity, population biology and evolution of E. crus‐galli.