bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation and endoscopic papillary balloon dilation both without sphincterotomy for removal of large bile duct stones: A propensity‐matched analysis
Authors: Hakuta Ryunosuke , Kawahata Shuhei , Kogure Hirofumi , Nakai Yousuke , Saito Kei , Saito Tomotaka , Hamada Tsuyoshi , Takahara Naminatsu , Uchino Rie , Mizuno Suguru , Tsujino Takeshi , Tada Minoru , Sakamoto Naoya , Isayama Hiroyuki , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) may facilitate extraction of large bile duct stones through achieving adequate dilation of the ampulla. However, contrary to favorable long‐term outcomes after endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD), that of EPLBD without EST has been little investigated. Therefore, we conducted the current study to evaluate short‐ and long‐term outcomes of EPLBD without EST and EPBD after removal of large bile duct stones (LBDS; ≥10 mm).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients without a previous history of EST, EPBD or EPLBD who underwent EPLBD without EST or EPBD for removal of LBDS. Each patient in the EPLBD without EST group was matched to a patient in the EPBD group using propensity scores.

Results

Forty‐four patients in each group were matched for the analysis. Baseline characteristics were balanced after propensity matching. Rate of complete stone removal in a single session was higher (80% vs 16%, P < 0.001), number of ERCP sessions (1.3 ± 0.7 vs 2.4 ± 1.5, P < 0.001) and rate of lithotripsy use (30% vs 80%, P < 0.001) were smaller in the matched EPLBD without EST group. Contrary to null between‐group differences in early adverse events (P = 0.99), a cumulative rate of late biliary complications was higher in the EPLBD without EST group (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

EPLBD without EST showed higher efficacy for removal of LBDS but was associated with worse long‐term outcomes when compared to EPBD.
The Effects of Protests on Agents’ Expectations: Evidence from Students’ Demonstrations in Chile
Authors: Correa Juan A. , Morales Raúl , Parro Francisco
Published: June 2018

We use a narrative approach to study the effects of protests on agents’ expectations. The “protest shocks” in the case of our study arose from Chile's student demonstrations. The demonstrations, led by university and secondary students, raised demands related to greater involvement of the state in the funding, provision, and regulation of the education sector. We find a negative response in relation to both the consumer confidence index and the business confidence index in the face of those demonstrations. The negative effect of the protests on the consumer confidence index lasted, on average, six months after the demonstrations. The impact of the protests on the business confidence index was more limited, although still negative and statistically significant.
Hypoglycaemia risk in the first 8 weeks of titration with insulin glargine 100 U/mL in previously insulin‐naive individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Frier Brian M. , Landgraf Wolfgang , Zhang Mei , Bolli Geremia B. , Owens David R.
Published: June 2018

Patient characteristics associated with hypoglycaemia frequency during insulin glargine 100 U/mL (Gla‐100) titration and clinical outcomes at Week 24 were examined using participant‐level data from 16 treat‐to‐target trials involving individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were inadequately controlled with oral antidiabetes drugs and were initiating Gla‐100 (n = 3549). Hypoglycaemia (plasma glucose <3.9 mmol/L or severe) during the first 8 weeks of titration was stratified by number of events (0, 1‐3 and ≥4), resulting in 72.5%, 20.6% and 6.9% of participants in each group, respectively. Changes in glycaemia, body weight and insulin dose from baseline to Weeks 12 and 24 were analysed. Hypoglycaemia was more common in participants with lower BMI and fasting C‐peptide, and in those undergoing sulfonylurea treatment. Glycaemic outcomes at Week 24 were similar in each hypoglycaemia group, despite the fact that the Week 24 mean daily dose and dose increase for Gla‐100 were highest in participants without hypoglycaemia and were lowest in those experiencing ≥4 events. The risk of hypoglycaemia during Gla‐100 titration depends mainly on patient characteristics and on sulfonylurea use and may delay dose titration, which apparently has little effect on short‐term glycaemic control in a clinical trial setting.
Successful thrombolysis of a subacute prosthetic valve thrombosis with modified ultra‐slow thrombolytic therapy
Authors: Altay Hakan , Kocabaş Umut , Yıldırımtürk Özlem , Özkalaycı Flora , Sarıtaş Bülent , Pehlivanoğlu Seçkin
Published: June 2018

Prosthetic valve thrombosis is a serious complication of heart valve surgery. According to the recent studies, thrombolytic therapy is an important alternative therapy to the open heart surgery with successful outcomes. We present a case of a prosthetic mitral valve thrombosis who was successfully treated with modified ultra‐slow thrombolytic therapy.
Beamforming algorithms for endocardial border detection
Authors: Kulina Robert , Seetharam Karthik , Agarwal Sunil , Wiley Brandon M. , Narula Jagat , Chaudhry Farooq A. , Sengupta Partho P.
Published: June 2018

Background

Software‐based beamforming which utilizes delay and standard beamforming is a signal processing technique that temporarily stores data from each probe element to improve specular reflections to improve the image resolution. We compared a software algorithm which uses delay and standard beamforming with delay and sum beamforming in standard, hardware to evaluate endocardial borders and need for echo contrast.

Methods

In this prospective study, eligible participants were ≥18 years of age referred clinically for transthoracic echocardiograms. A limited study consisting of three views (apical 4, apical 3, and apical 2 chamber) was performed with the software‐based beamforming and standard platform. Number and quality of segments visualized were evaluated using a 17‐segment model. Quality of segments was graded as 0 = not visualized, 1 = incompletely visualized, or 2 = completely visualized. Overall quality score for each study (0 = poor, 1 = adequate, 2 = good) was reported. The need for contrast was determined by ASE guidelines.

Results

A total of 101 patients (mean age 61 ± 16 years, males 52%) were enrolled. Mean number of segments visualized in apical 4‐ (6.28 vs 5.65, P < .001), apical 3‐ (6.27 vs 5.54, P < .001), and apical 2‐chamber views (6.26 vs 5.72 P < .001) was higher with the software vs standard platform. The average overall score for image quality was significantly better for the software platform vs standard (1.4 vs 0.9, P =< .001). With the software platform, 23% were judged as requiring contrast as compared with 45% for the standard platform (P < .001).

Conclusions

Delay and standard beamforming in software platform identified more segments with better image quality when compared to the standard high‐end platform, decreasing the need for contrast usage.
Short‐term longitudinal changes in adult dental fear
Authors: Hagqvist Outi , Tolvanen Mimmi , Rantavuori Kari , Karlsson Linnea , Karlsson Hasse , Lahti Satu
Published: June 2018

This study aimed to evaluate (i) longitudinal fluctuations and considerable changes in adult fear at five data‐collection points during a 2.5‐yr period and (ii) the stability of symptoms of depression in dental fear‐change groups. Pilot data from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort study, of 254 families expecting a baby, were used. Data‐collection points (DCPs) were: 18–20 and 32–34 gestational weeks; and 3, 12, and 24 months after delivery. At baseline, 119 women and 85 men completed the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) questionnaire. At all DCPs, 57 (48%) women and 35 (41%) men completed MDAS. Depression was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Changes in MDAS were analyzed using general linear modelling for repeated measures. Stability of dental fear was assessed using dichotomized MDAS scores. Dental fear among women decreased statistically significantly in late pregnancy and increased thereafter. Among men, dental fear tended to increase in late pregnancy and decreased afterwards. Depression scores varied in high and fluctuating fear groups but the differences diminished towards the last DCP. Dental fear among adults experiencing a major life event does not seem to be stable. Clinicians should take this into account. The mechanisms behind these changes need further research.
Deciphering the mechanism of potent peptidomimetic inhibitors targeting plasmepsins – biochemical and structural insights
Authors: Mishra Vandana , Rathore Ishan , Arekar Anagha , Sthanam Lakshmi Kavitha , Xiao Huogen , Kiso Yoshiaki , Sen Shamik , Patankar Swati , Gustchina Alla , Hidaka Koushi , Wlodawer Alexander , Yada Rickey Y. , Bhaumik Prasenjit
Published: June 2018

Malaria is a deadly disease killing worldwide hundreds of thousands people each year and the responsible parasite has acquired resistance to the available drug combinations. The four vacuolar plasmepsins (PMs) in Plasmodium falciparum involved in hemoglobin (Hb) catabolism represent promising targets to combat drug resistance. High antimalarial activities can be achieved by developing a single drug that would simultaneously target all the vacuolar PMs. We have demonstrated for the first time the use of soluble recombinant plasmepsin II (PMII) for structure‐guided drug discovery with KNI inhibitors. Compounds used in this study (KNI‐10742, 10743, 10395, 10333, and 10343) exhibit nanomolar inhibition against PMII and are also effective in blocking the activities of PMI and PMIV with the low nanomolar Ki values. The high‐resolution crystal structures of PMII–KNI inhibitor complexes reveal interesting features modulating their differential potency. Important individual characteristics of the inhibitors and their importance for potency have been established. The alkylamino analog, KNI‐10743, shows intrinsic flexibility at the P2 position that potentiates its interactions with Asp132, Leu133, and Ser134. The phenylacetyl tripeptides, KNI‐10333 and KNI‐10343, accommodate different ρ‐substituents at the P3 phenylacetyl ring that determine the orientation of the ring, thus creating novel hydrogen‐bonding contacts. KNI‐10743 and KNI‐10333 possess significant antimalarial activity, block Hb degradation inside the food vacuole, and show no cytotoxicity on human cells; thus, they can be considered as promising candidates for further optimization. Based on our structural data, novel KNI derivatives with improved antimalarial activity could be designed for potential clinical use.

Database

Structural data are available in the PDB under the accession numbers 5YIE, 5YIB, 5YID, 5YIC, and 5YIA.
The MocR‐like transcription factors: pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate‐dependent regulators of bacterial metabolism
Authors: Tramonti Angela , Nardella Caterina , di Salvo Martino L. , Pascarella Stefano , Contestabile Roberto
Published: June 2018

Many biological functions played by current proteins were not created by evolution from scratch, rather they were obtained combining already available protein scaffolds. This is the case of MocR‐like bacterial transcription factors (MocR‐TFs), a subclass of GntR transcription regulators, whose structure is the outcome of the fusion between DNA‐binding proteins and pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP)‐dependent enzymes. The resultant chimeras can count on the properties of both protein classes, i.e. the capability to recognize specific DNA sequences and to bind PLP and amino‐compounds; it is the modulation of such binding properties to confer to MocR‐TFs chimeras the ability to interact with effector molecules and DNA so as to regulate transcription. MocR‐TFs control different metabolic processes involving vitamin B6 and amino acids, which are canonical ligands of PLP‐dependent enzymes. However, MocR‐TFs are also implicated in the metabolism of compounds that are not substrates of PLP‐dependent enzymes, such as rhizopine and ectoine. Genomic analyses show that MocR‐TFs are widespread among eubacteria, implying an essential role in their metabolism and highlighting the scarcity of our knowledge on these important players in microbial metabolism. Although MocR‐TFs have been discovered 15 years ago, the research activity on these transcriptional regulators has only recently intensified, producing a wealth of information that needs to be brought back to general principles. This is the main task of this review, which reports and analyses the available information concerning MocR‐TFs functional role, structural features, interaction with effector molecules and the characteristics of DNA transcriptional factor‐binding sites of MocR‐based regulatory systems.
Influence of radiation on Hemarthria compressa's genetic variations
Authors: Wu Bingchao , Zhang Yu , Yan Haidong , Yang Shengting , Zhou Sifan , Zhang Xinquan , Liu Wei , Nie Gang , Peng Yan , Ma Xiao , Yan Yanhong , Li Zhou , Huang Linkai
Published: June 2018

Using the material of Hemarthria compressa (L.F.) R.Br. cv. YA’AN, we carried out this research to study the influence of radiation on the genetic variation of plants. Genetic difference was analyzed with expressed sequence tag‐simple sequence repeat (EST‐SSR) molecular marker through the comparison of 60Co‐γ radiation on H. compressa seed stems and original variety. By using 20 primer pairs, 176 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐amplifications with clear and consistent bands were obtained. The results showed that 155 of 176 bands were polymorphic, which indicating an 88.07% polymorphism rate, and each pair of primers had 8.8 amplified bands on average; the amplitude of polymorphism information content was 0.4709–0.6952 with an average value 0.6081. The genetic similarity coefficient of H. compressa and its mutants ranged from 0.4318 to 0.8239 with an average of 0.6671. As a consequence, existence of genetic differences between the mutants and the basic material was proved.
Recommendations on multidisciplinary management of elective surgery in people with haemophilia
Authors: Escobar M. A. , Brewer A. , Caviglia H. , Forsyth A. , Jimenez‐Yuste V. , Laudenbach L. , Lobet S. , McLaughlin P. , Oyesiku J. O. O. , Rodriguez‐Merchan E. C. , Shapiro A. , Solimeno L. P.
Published: June 2018

Planning and undertaking elective surgery in people with haemophilia (PWH) is most effective with the involvement of a specialist and experienced multidisciplinary team (MDT) at a haemophilia treatment centre. However, despite extensive best practice guidelines for surgery in PWH, there may exist a gap between guidelines and practical application. For this consensus review, an expert multidisciplinary panel comprising surgeons, haematologists, nurses, physiotherapists and a dental expert was assembled to develop practical approaches to implement the principles of multidisciplinary management of elective surgery for PWH. Careful preoperative planning is paramount for successful elective surgery, including dental examinations, physical assessment and prehabilitation, laboratory testing and the development of haemostasis and pain management plans. A coordinator may be appointed from the MDT to ensure that critical tasks are performed and milestones met to enable surgery to proceed. At all stages, the patient and their parent/caregiver, where appropriate, should be consulted to ensure that their expectations and functional goals are realistic and can be achieved. The planning phase should ensure that surgery proceeds without incident, but the surgical team should be ready to handle unanticipated events. Similarly, the broader MDT must be made aware of events in surgery that may require postoperative plans to be changed. Postoperative rehabilitation should begin soon after surgery, with attention paid to management of haemostasis and pain. Surgery in patients with inhibitors requires even more careful preparation and should only be undertaken by an MDT experienced in this area, at a specialized haemophilia treatment centre with a comprehensive care model.
In the shadows of empires: Early medieval Croatia in the ninth and tenth centuries
Authors: Majnarić Ivan
Published: June 2018

The early medieval history of the European periphery in the 9th century and its relations with the Carolingian and the Byzantine Empire have in the last two decades become a focal point for medievalists. In a number of research papers studying the areas beyond the eastern borders of the Carolingian Empire, interest has been shown for the northeastern hinterlands of the Adriatic coast, that is, the area in which the Duchy of Croatia was formed during the 9th century. The question at the heart of these medievalists' interest is the appearance of Croats in recorded history. The modern solutions to this question are not unanimous, as they range from a collective migration in the 7th century to the creation of a Croatian elite in the first half of the 10th. Also, due to the lack of primary sources, various methodological templates have been used to make sense of the past, applied chiefly—until recently—by non‐Croatian historians. Meanwhile, the developmental perspective of the 9th century has often been disregarded due to the ever‐present fragmentation of research—especially regarding the interrelated shaping of social and identity structures during the Carolingian and post‐Carolingian era—although this has proven essential as a means of historical inquiry when primary sources are scarce. The formation and survival of structures in early medieval Croatia during the 9th and 10th centuries should be considered in terms of the long‐term binarity of identities at the juncture of the Carolingian and the Byzantine Empire, as this paper will attempt to do.
Mesenteric tumour deposits arising from small‐intestine neuroendocrine tumours are frequently associated with fibrosis and IgG4‐expressing plasma cells
Authors: Roberts Jordan , Gonzalez Raul S , Revetta Frank , Shi Chanjuan
Published: June 2018

Aims

Mesenteric tumour deposits frequently occur in small‐intestine neuroendocrine tumours. In many instances, these mesenteric tumour deposits are surrounded by a dense fibrotic stroma and have associated lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. The aim of this study was to examine whether mesenteric tumour deposits in patients with small‐intestine NETs neuroendocrine tumours show histological and immunophenotypic overlap with IgG4‐related sclerosing mesenteritis.

Methods and results

Sixty‐six mesenteric tumour deposits from 66 patients with small‐intestine neuroendocrine tumours with blocks available for further studies were identified from our archives. Cases were assessed for clinicopathological features and the presence of IgG4‐positive and IgG‐positive plasma cells by immunohistochemistry. Ratios of IgG4‐positive to IgG‐positive plasma cells were calculated. Seventeen mesenteric tumour deposits (26%) showed >40 IgG4‐positive plasma cells per high‐power field, and the majority of cases (68%) showed at least some staining of IgG4‐positive plasma cells. Mesenteric tumour deposits with >20 IgG4‐positive plasma cells per high‐power field tended to be larger (25.9 ± 13.0 mm versus 18.6 ± 15.8 mm; P = 0.07), and had more IgG‐positive plasma cells (88 ± 24 versus 36 ± 37; P < 0.01) and a higher IgG4‐positive/IgG‐positive plasma cell ratio (0.66 ± 0.18 versus 0.17 ± 0.25; P < 0.01). All but one mesenteric tumour deposit with >20 IgG4‐positve plasma cells had a ratio of >40%.

Conclusions

IgG4 expression is frequent in mesenteric tumour deposits from small‐intestine neuroendocrine tumours. Undersampling of tumour on biopsies of mesenteric tumour deposits could potentially cause diagnostic confusion with IgG4‐related sclerosing mesenteritis.
Are fine‐needle aspiration biopsy‐derived cell blocks a useful surrogate for tissue samples in breast cancer?
Authors: Puccetti Maurizio , Ravaioli Sara , Tumedei Maria M , Bucchi Elisa , Malmesi Manuela , Medri Laura , Bravaccini Sara
Published: June 2018

Aims

The diagnosis of breast cancer (BC) is based on clinical examination in combination with imaging, and confirmed by pathological assessment of core needle biopsy or fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). The biological profile of the lesion is needed to define the prognosis and establish therapy. Given the importance of an early and minimally invasive diagnosis, we aimed to verify whether the biological features detected in FNAB‐derived cytological material reflect the biological characteristics of surgical samples.

Methods and results

We used immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation to study a panel of conventional biomarkers [oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PgR), Ki67, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)] in FNAB‐derived cytological samples included in cell blocks of 93 BC patients, and compared the results with those obtained from histological evaluation of the same parameters in surgical samples. Median immunopositive values of ER, PgR and Ki67 were similar in cell blocks and surgical samples. The concordance rates of ER and PgR between FNAB‐derived cell blocks and histological samples were 98% and 84%, respectively. The concordance rates of Ki67 and HER2 between the two sample types were 90% and 96%, respectively. Tumour subtype classification for triple‐negative and HER2‐positive BCs in FNAB‐derived cell blocks was always concordant with the subtype determined in surgical material.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that biological marker determination in FNAB‐derived cell blocks is feasible, and provides useful information and comparable results to those obtained with histological evaluation. Given the low cost of the procedure and its minimal impact on patients, we believe that cytological samples could be used as an alternative to tissue samples for early BC biomarker evaluation.
TESTING FOR MICRO‐EFFICIENCY IN THE HOUSING MARKET
Authors: Anundsen André Kallåk , Røed Larsen Erling
Published: June 2018

Using highly granular transaction‐level data for the Norwegian housing market over the period 2002–2014, we investigate whether excessive prices persist or revert in repeat sales. Excessiveness in prices is detected by comparing selling prices to predicted prices implied by a hedonic model, which includes a rich set of attributes. Persistence is rejected and there is substantial reversion in excessive prices. Our results also show little scope for profitable arbitrage by investing in apparently underpriced units. We suggest that excessive prices are related to the stochastic arrival of interested purchasers at public showings, which we show is nonrepeatable.
Immunoglobulin gene analysis as a tool for investigating human immune responses
Authors: Dunn‐Walters Deborah , Townsend Catherine , Sinclair Emma , Stewart Alex
Published: June 2018

The human immunoglobulin repertoire is a hugely diverse set of sequences that are formed by processes of gene rearrangement, heavy and light chain gene assortment, class switching and somatic hypermutation. Early B cell development produces diverse IgM and IgD B cell receptors on the B cell surface, resulting in a repertoire that can bind many foreign antigens but which has had self‐reactive B cells removed. Later antigen‐dependent development processes adjust the antigen affinity of the receptor by somatic hypermutation. The effector mechanism of the antibody is also adjusted, by switching the class of the antibody from IgM to one of seven other classes depending on the required function. There are many instances in human biology where positive and negative selection forces can act to shape the immunoglobulin repertoire and therefore repertoire analysis can provide useful information on infection control, vaccination efficacy, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. It can also be used to identify antigen‐specific sequences that may be of use in therapeutics. The juxtaposition of lymphocyte development and numerical evaluation of immune repertoires has resulted in the growth of a new sub‐speciality in immunology where immunologists and computer scientists/physicists collaborate to assess immune repertoires and develop models of immune action.
Germinal center responses to complex antigens
Authors: Finney Joel , Yeh Chen‐Hao , Kelsoe Garnett , Kuraoka Masayuki
Published: June 2018

Germinal centers (GCs) are the primary sites of antibody affinity maturation, sites where B‐cell antigen‐receptor (BCR) genes rapidly acquire mutations and are selected for increasing affinity for antigen. This process of hypermutation and affinity‐driven selection results in the clonal expansion of B cells expressing mutated BCRs and acts to hone the antibody repertoire for greater avidity and specificity. Remarkably, whereas the process of affinity maturation has been confirmed in a number of laboratories, models for how affinity maturation in GCs operates are largely from studies of genetically restricted B‐cell populations competing for a single hapten epitope. Much less is known about GC responses to complex antigens, which involve both inter‐ and intraclonal competition for many epitopes. In this review, we (i) compare current methods for analysis of the GC B‐cell repertoire, (ii) describe recent studies of GC population dynamics in response to complex antigens, discussing how the observed repertoire changes support or depart from the standard model of clonal selection, and (iii) speculate on the nature and potential importance of the large fraction of GC B cells that do not appear to interact with native antigen.
iReceptor: A platform for querying and analyzing antibody/B‐cell and T‐cell receptor repertoire data across federated repositories
Authors: Corrie Brian D. , Marthandan Nishanth , Zimonja Bojan , Jaglale Jerome , Zhou Yang , Barr Emily , Knoetze Nicole , Breden Frances M. W. , Christley Scott , Scott Jamie K. , Cowell Lindsay G. , Breden Felix
Published: June 2018

Next‐generation sequencing allows the characterization of the adaptive immune receptor repertoire (AIRR) in exquisite detail. These large‐scale AIRR‐seq data sets have rapidly become critical to vaccine development, understanding the immune response in autoimmune and infectious disease, and monitoring novel therapeutics against cancer. However, at present there is no easy way to compare these AIRR‐seq data sets across studies and institutions. The ability to combine and compare information for different disease conditions will greatly enhance the value of AIRR‐seq data for improving biomedical research and patient care. The iReceptor Data Integration Platform (gateway.ireceptor.org) provides one implementation of the AIRR Data Commons envisioned by the AIRR Community (airr‐community.org), an initiative that is developing protocols to facilitate sharing and comparing AIRR‐seq data. The iReceptor Scientific Gateway links distributed (federated) AIRR‐seq repositories, allowing sequence searches or metadata queries across multiple studies at multiple institutions, returning sets of sequences fulfilling specific criteria. We present a review of the development of iReceptor, and how it fits in with the general trend toward sharing genomic and health data, and the development of standards for describing and reporting AIRR‐seq data. Researchers interested in integrating their repositories of AIRR‐seq data into the iReceptor Platform are invited to contact support@ireceptor.org.
How infrastructures anchor open entrepreneurship: The case of Bitcoin and stigma
Authors: Ingram Bogusz Claire , Morisse Marcel
Published: June 2018

This paper delves into the question: How does an entrepreneur commercialising an open source technology (an “open entrepreneur”) respond when an underlying infrastructure that is maintained by a distributed and heterogeneous community become stigmatised, particularly when the source of the stigma is unclear? Research has found that, when faced with stigma, the most effective and robust strategy for established nondigital firms is to try to and create a distance from it. Open entrepreneurs with different ideologies would likely benefit from similar actions; however, the interdependencies created when they rely upon a digital infrastructure may make this strategy impossible. Given the tensions between ideological heterogeneity and a shared infrastructure, how—and why—do open entrepreneurs respond to stigma? This paper extends existing literature on stigma by developing a model of ideologically mediated responses to stigma by open entrepreneurs through an inductive study based upon interviews, archival, and forum data. We further contribute to extant literature on open entrepreneurship by proposing a model of ideologically mediated responses to stigma, which is grounded in group identity theory. We also build on digital infrastructure literature by proposing the concept of digital infrastructure anchoring. Lastly, we show how ideological heterogeneity leads to business model heterogeneity among open entrepreneurs and discuss the practical implications of this research.
OsPKpα1 encodes a plastidic pyruvate kinase that affects starch biosynthesis in the rice endosperm
Authors: Cai Yue , Zhang Wenwei , Jin Jie , Yang Xiaoming , You Xiaoman , Yan Haigang , Wang Liang , Chen Jie , Xu Jiahuan , Chen Weiwei , Chen Xingang , Ma Jing , Tang Xiaojie , Kong Fei , Zhu Xiaopin , Wang Guoxiang , Jiang Ling , Terzaghi William , Wang Chunming , Wan Jianmin
Published: June 2018

Pyruvate kinase (PK) is a key enzyme in glycolysis and carbon metabolism. Here, we isolated a rice (Oryza sativa) mutant, w59, with a white‐core floury endosperm. Map‐based cloning of w59 identified a mutation in OsPKpα1, which encodes a plastidic isoform of PK (PKp). OsPKpα1 localizes to the amyloplast stroma in the developing endosperm, and the mutation of OsPKpα1 in w59 decreases the plastidic PK activity, resulting in dramatic changes to the lipid biosynthesis in seeds. The w59 grains were also characterized by a marked decrease in starch content. Consistent with a decrease in number and size of the w59 amyloplasts, large empty spaces were observed in the central region of the w59 endosperm, at the early grain‐filling stage. Moreover, a phylogenetic analysis revealed four potential rice isoforms of OsPKp. We validated the in vitro PK activity of these OsPKps through reconstituting active PKp complexes derived from inactive individual OsPKps, revealing the heteromeric structure of rice PKps, which was further confirmed using a protein–protein interaction analysis. These findings suggest a functional connection between lipid and starch synthesis in rice endosperm amyloplasts.
Genome‐wide screening of long non‐coding RNAs involved in rubber biosynthesis in Eucommia ulmoides
Authors: Liu Huimin , Lu Yan , Wang Juan , Hu Jingjing , Wuyun Tana
Published: June 2018

Increasing evidence indicates that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play pivotal roles in regulatory networks controlling plant and animal gene expression. However, lncRNA roles in regulating rubber biosynthesis in Eucommia ulmoides, an emerging source of natural rubber (Eu‐rubber), are currently unknown. Here, we report on RNA deep‐sequencing of E. ulmoides fruits at two developmental stages. Based on application of a stringent pipeline, 29,103 lncRNAs and 9,048 transcripts of uncertain coding potential (TUCPs) were identified. Two differentially expressed (DE) TUCPs appear to simultaneously regulate 12 protein‐coding genes involved in Eu‐rubber biosynthesis (GIEBs), as well as 95 DE genes. Functional categorization of these 95 DE genes indicated their involvement in subcellular microstructures and cellular processes, such as cell wall, cell division, and growth. These DE genes may participate in the differentiation and development of laticifers, where Eu‐rubber is synthesized. A model is proposed in which “commanders” (DE TUCPs) direct the “builders” (DE genes) to construct a “storehouse” of materials needed for Eu‐rubber synthesis, and the “workers” (GIEBs) to synthesize Eu‐rubber. These findings provide insights into both cis‐ and trans‐polyisoprene biosynthesis in plants, laying the foundation for additional studies of this crucial process.
Modulation of synaptic inputs in magnocellular neurones in a rat model of cancer cachexia
Authors: Yokoyama Toru , Terawaki Kiyoshi , Minami Kouichiro , Miyano Kanako , Nonaka Miki , Uzu Miaki , Kashiwase Yohei , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Ueta Yoichi , Uezono Yasuhito
Published: June 2018

In cancer cachexia, abnormal metabolism and neuroendocrine dysfunction cause anorexia, tissue damage and atrophy, which can in turn alter body fluid balance. Arginine vasopressin, which regulates fluid homeostasis, is secreted by magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs) of the hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus. Arginine vasopressin secretion by MNCs is regulated by both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity, alterations in plasma osmolarity and various peptides, including angiotensin II. In the present study, we used whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings of brain slices to determine whether hyperosmotic stimulation and/or angiotensin II potentiate excitatory synaptic input in a rat model of cancer cachexia, similar to their effects in normal (control) rats. Hyperosmotic (15 and 60 mmol L‐1  mannitol) stimulation and angiotensin II (0.1 μmol L‐1) increased the frequency, but not the amplitude, of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents in normal rats; in model rats, both effects were significantly attenuated. These results suggest that cancer cachexia alters supraoptic MNC sensitivity to osmotic and angiotensin II stimulation.
The price of journeying towards the prize—Commencing nursing students' experiences of working and studying: A qualitative study
Authors: Salamonson Yenna , Priddis Holly , Woodmass Joel M , Everett Bronwyn , Lynch Joan , Curtis Elizabeth , Ramjan Lucie M
Published: June 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore the experiences of commencing first‐year undergraduate nursing students who were studying full time while engaging in 20 or more hours of paid work each week.

Method

Using a qualitative exploratory design, commencing full‐time nursing students who were employed in paid work for at least 20 hr per week were interviewed between May–June 2016. Data were thematically analysed using the following approach: data familiarisation, generating initial codes independently, searching and reviewing themes and subthemes, and defining and naming these themes and subthemes.

Results

Four main themes were identified which illustrated students' experiences of working and studying: (a) “Work is a necessity…not a choice” identified how students relied heavily on the financial income from paid work to support themselves and others during their studies, (b) “Something's got to give” highlighted the sacrifices that needed to be made to avoid negative effects on their studies, (c) “It's a balancing act!” demonstrated how students studied strategically and balanced their workload despite challenges, and lastly (d) “Being supported to work and study” described the overwhelming support from others for students to succeed academically.

Conclusions

Despite support, working 20 hr or more per week while studying full time often overwhelmed students' personal resources and negatively impacted on course grades. Inflexible University timetables compounded the challenges experienced by students who struggled to balance work and study commitments.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nursing employers play a pivotal role in enabling students to juggle effectively their work‐study commitments, through providing work flexibility. Students may also benefit if the nursing workforce advocates that they be awarded exclusion from selected clinical placement requirements, particularly if the clinical placement focus is closely related to their current nursing employment.
Evaluation of three pain assessment scales used for ventilated neonates
Authors: Huang Xiao‐Zhi , Li Li , Zhou Jun , He Fang , Zhong Chun‐Xia , Wang Bin
Published: June 2018

Aims and objectives

To compare and evaluate the reliability, validity, feasibility, clinical utility, and nurses’ preference of the Premature Infant Pain Profile‐Revised, the Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale, and the Neonatal Infant Acute Pain Assessment Scale used for procedural pain in ventilated neonates.

Background

Procedural pain is a common phenomenon but is undermanaged and underassessed in hospitalised neonates. Information for clinician selecting pain measurements to improve neonatal care and outcomes is still limited.

Design

A prospective observational study was used.

Methods

A total of 1,080 pain assessments were made at 90 neonates by two nurses independently, using three scales viewing three phases of videotaped painful (arterial blood sampling) and nonpainful procedures (diaper change). Internal consistency, inter‐rater reliability, discriminant validity, concurrent validity and convergent validity of scales were analysed. Feasibility, clinical utility and nurses’ preference of scales were also investigated.

Results

All three scales showed excellent inter‐rater coefficients (from 0.991–0.992) and good internal consistency (0.733 for the Premature Infant Pain Profile‐Revised, 0.837 for the Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale and 0.836 for the Neonatal Infant Acute Pain Assessment Scale, respectively). Scores of painful and nonpainful procedures on the three scales changed significantly across the phases. There was a strong correlation between the three scales with adequate limits of agreement. The mean scores of the Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale for feasibility and utility were significantly higher than those of the Neonatal Infant Acute Pain Assessment Scale, but not significantly higher than those of the Premature Infant Pain Profile‐Revised. The Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale was mostly preferred by 55.9% of the nurses, followed by the Neonatal Infant Acute Pain Assessment Scale (23.5%) and the Premature Infant Pain Profile‐Revised (20.6%).

Conclusions

The three scales are all reliable and valid, but the Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale and the Neonatal Infant Acute Pain Assessment Scale perform better in reliability. The Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale appears to be a better choice for frontier nurses to assess procedural pain in ventilated neonates based on its good feasibility, utility and nurses’ preference.

Relevance to clinical practice

Choosing a valid, reliable, feasible and practical measurement is the key step for better management of procedural pain for ventilated newborns. Using the right and suitable tool is helpful to accurately identify pain, ultimately improve the neonatal care and outcomes.
Characteristics of interruptions during medication administration: An integrative review of direct observational studies
Authors: Schroers Ginger
Published: June 2018

Aims and objectives

To synthesise and summarise data gathered by direct observation of the characteristics of interruptions in the context of nursing medication administration (MA) in hospital settings.

Background

Interruptions are prevalent during the MA process performed by nurses in hospital settings and have been found to be associated with an increase in frequency and severity of nursing MA errors. In addition, interruptions decrease task efficiency, leading to longer MA completion times.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

The electronic databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, PsycARTICLES and Google Scholar were searched using the terms “interruptions” AND “medication administration” AND “direct observation.” Nine articles met the inclusion criteria.

Results

Interruptions are likely to occur at least once during nursing MA processes in hospital settings. This finding applies to medication administered to one patient, termed a medication pass, and medication administered to multiple patients, termed a medication round. Interruptions are most commonly caused by another nurse or staff member or are self‐initiated, and last approximately 1 min in length.

Conclusions

A raised awareness among staff of the most common sources of interruptions may encourage changes that lead to a decrease in the occurrence of interruptions. In addition, nurse leaders can apply an understanding of the common characteristics of interruptions to guide research, policies and educational methods aimed at interruption management strategies.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings from this review can be used to guide the identification and development of targeted interventions and strategies that would have the most substantial impact to reduce and manage interruptions during MA. Interruption management strategies have the potential to lead to a decrease in medication errors and an increase in task efficiency.
Paediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation: Knowledge and perceptions of surf lifeguards
Authors: Webber Jonathon , Moran Kevin , Cumin David
Published: June 2018

Aim

To conduct a comprehensive analysis of surf lifeguards' real and perceived ability in paediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), knowledge of child resuscitation protocols and technical competency during a simulated CPR scenario.

Methods

Surf lifeguards aged 16 years and over were invited to complete a written survey and simulated test of five cycles of single‐rescuer CPR on a paediatric manikin. In accordance with the latest Australia and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR) guidelines, practical skills were assessed by trained observers. A manikin fitted with electronic data‐collection capability recorded technical compression and ventilation skills.

Results

A total of 244 participants were entered into the study. Most previous CPR training did not include a paediatric component (53%). Lifeguards rated their ability to perform CPR on an adult as ‘highly effective’ or ‘effective’ in 56% of responses. Less than a quarter (23%), however, gave this response when compared to a child. Observed CPR skills were mostly compliant with ANZCOR guidelines (80–99%). Manikin data provided a median compression rate of 115.6 min−1, compression depth of 3.7 cm and tidal volume of 220.0 mL. Almost half of ventilations were too little (45%), and around one fifth were too much (22%).

Conclusions

Surf lifeguards are less confident in paediatric CPR. The overall performance of observed and technical CPR skills, which were mostly ANZCOR guideline compliant, suggests that performance could be improved if paediatric‐specific training is provided to supplement the adult‐focused methods currently in use. The use of electronic feedback manikins is recommended to address the technical compression and ventilation issues identified in this study.
Diversity of fungal latent pathogens and true endophytes associated with fruit trees in Uruguay
Authors: Sessa Lucía , Abreo Eduardo , Lupo Sandra
Published: June 2018

We have explored the fungal diversity in asymptomatic twigs of apple, peach, pear and blueberry trees, with the objective of discerning between true endophytes and latent pathogens. Several fungal genera containing known bark pathogens were found. Seven Diaporthe species—D. oxe, D. infecunda, D. serafiniae, D. phaseolorum, D. terebinthifolii, D. foeniculina and D. brasiliensis—were identified, along with Botryosphaeria dothidea, Neofusicoccum parvum, Neofusicoccum australe, Cytospora sp., Cytospora acaciae and Pestalotiopsis spp. A pathogenicity trial was undertaken to determine the role of these species on apple, pear, blueberry and peach shoots. Diaporthe brasiliensis, D. foeniculina, Diaporthe inconspicua, D. terebinthifolii, Diaporthe sp.1, Cytospora‐like isolates and Pestalotiopsis spp. isolates produced no lesions on inoculated shoots, suggesting that they could be considered true endophytes on their respective hosts. Meanwhile, some of the isolates of Diaporthe—D. oxe, Diaporthe sp.2, D. infecunda and D. serafiniae, B. dothidea, N. parvum and N. australe could be regarded as latent pathogens in their respective hosts as they produced sunken cankers and necrosis on inoculated shoots. These results demonstrate that apple, pear, blueberry and peach healthy shoots can host many known endophytic fungi along with potential wood disease‐causing fungi that should be regarded as latent pathogens.
Comparison of temperature effects on the in vitro growth and disease development in potato tubers inoculated with bacteria Pectobacterium atrosepticum, P carotovorum subsp. carotovorum and Dickeya solani
Authors: Lebecka Renata , Flis Bogdan , Murawska Zofia
Published: June 2018

The relationship between the rate of in vitro growth of bacterial isolates of Pectobacterium atrosepticum, P. carotovorum subsp. carotovorum and Dickeya solani and their pathogenicity was investigated in tubers of two potato cultivars at four temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. The rate of in vitro growth was highly positively correlated with the number of rotted tubers (r ranged from 0.91 to 0.93) and with the weight of macerated potato tissue, which, however, was only found for P. carotovorum and D. solani (r = 0.76; r = 0.91, respectively) and not for P. atrosepticum. The weight of macerated tissue increased with the temperature, but significant differences between species of bacteria were observed only at 26°C and above, at which temperatures D. solani was the most aggressive, followed by P. carotovorum and P. atrosepticum. Almost all potato tubers inoculated with bacteria showed symptoms of soft rot at 26°C and 30°C, but the number of rotting tubers at lower temperatures (22°C and 18°C) decreased significantly. The lowest disease incidence, 11% of tubers with symptoms, was observed for the D. solani and cultivar Sonda at 18°C, what was also confirmed in a separate experiment with tubers from four potato cultivars inoculated with the highly aggressive isolate of D. solani. At temperatures from 18°C to 30°C, the differences in disease severity between potato cultivars with various resistance to bacteria increased in line with temperature, while the differences in disease incidence decreased.
Flavonoids of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. heartwood inhibit the innate immune responses of human phagocytes
Authors: Septama Abdi Wira , Jantan Ibrahim , Panichayupakaranant Pharkphoom
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To investigate the effects of flavonoids isolated from Artocarpus heterophyllus. heartwood on chemotaxis, phagocytosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of human phagocytes.

Methods

Chemotaxis was evaluated using a modified Boyden chamber and phagocytosis was determined by flowcytometer. Respiratory burst was investigated by luminol-based chemiluminescence assay while MPO activity was determined by colorimetric assay.

Key findings

Artocarpanone and artocarpin strongly inhibited all steps of phagocytosis. Artocarpanone and artocarpin showed strong chemotactic activity with IC50 values of 6.96 and 6.10 μm, respectively, which were lower than that of ibuprofen (7.37 μm). Artocarpanone was the most potent compound in inhibiting ROS production of polymorphonuclear leucocytes and monocytes with IC50 values comparable to those of aspirin. Artocarpin at 100 μg/ml inhibited phagocytosis of opsonized bacteria (28.3%). It also strongly inhibited MPO release with an IC50 value (23.3 μm) lower than that of indomethacin (69 μm). Structure–activity analysis indicated that the number of hydroxyl group, the presence of prenyl group and variation of C-2 and C-3 bonds might contribute towards their phagocytosis.

Conclusions

Artocarpanone and artocarpin were able to suppress strongly the phagocytosis of human phagocytes at different steps and have potential to be developed into potent anti-inflammatory agents.