bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distance to treatment as a factor for loss to follow up of hepatitis C patients in North East England
Authors: Simpson H , Manley P , Lawler J , Morey S , Buchanan E , Hewett M , Knowles J , Miller C , McCarron B , Valappil M , McPherson S
Published: October 2018

Background

A large proportion of the 200 000 HCV-infected individuals in the UK are undiagnosed or lost to follow-up. Engaging known infected individuals in treatment is essential for elimination.

Methods

Using PHE surveillance data and HCV treatment registers from North East of England (NE) treatment centres for 1997–2016, we estimated the number of HCV cases not linked to treatment and the proportion with active infection. We compared distances of treated and untreated cases to treatment services, and assessed the effect of expanding HCV treatment into existing drug and alcohol treatment centres in the NEE on treatment accessibility.

Results

The odds of being treated was associated with distance to treatment services. Confirmatory results for ~50% were not reported to PHE NE. Overall, 3385 patients reported to PHE NE had no record of treatment; we estimated 1621 of these may have been lost to follow-up after confirmation of active infection.

Conclusions

Poor access to healthcare services may contribute to under-diagnosis or loss to follow-up. Expanding HCV treatment delivery into NEE drug and alcohol treatment centres would improve the accessibility of treatment services to people infected with/at risk of HCV. This may increase the proportion receiving treatment and support progress towards elimination.
Borrowing for Growth: Big Pushes and Debt Sustainability in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Zanna Luis-Felipe , Buffie Edward F , Portillo Rafael , Berg Andrew , Pattillo Catherine
Published: October 2018

The paper evaluates big push borrowing-and-investment programs in a new model-based framework of debt sustainability that is explicitly designed for policy analysis. The new framework is grounded in a fully-articulated, dynamic macroeconomic model. It allows for financing schemes that mix concessional, external commercial, and domestic debt, while taking into account the impact of public investment on growth and constraints on the speed and magnitude of fiscal adjustment. Supplementing concessional loans with nonconcessional borrowing in world capital markets is generally a high-risk, high-return strategy. It may greatly enhance the prospects for debt sustainability or lead to spectacular failure; much depends on the fine details governing debt contracts, the dynamics of growth, and the speed of fiscal adjustment.
Vesicular hand dermatitis
Authors: Sobering Geraldine , Dika Cheryl
Published: October 2018

Vesicular hand dermatitis is a type of eczema involving the fingers, hands, and sometimes the feet. It is common in primary care, requiring prompt treatment to prevent chronicity. The cause is often unknown, making the condition challenging to treat. Management consists of avoiding irritants and using emollients and topical corticosteroids.
Clinical Overview and Considerations for the Management of Opioid-induced Constipation in Patients With Chronic Noncancer Pain
Authors: Viscusi Eugene R.
Published: October 2018

Objectives:

Opioid analgesics may be associated with chronic adverse effects, such as opioid-induced constipation (OIC). Available and emerging prescription medications for OIC in patients with chronic noncancer pain are described, including concerns and challenges associated with OIC management.

Methods:

Narrative review.

Results:

OIC is characterized by a change in bowel habits and defecation patterns that occurs when initiating opioid therapy and is associated with reduced bowel frequency, straining, sensation of incomplete evacuation, and/or patient distress related to bowel habits. Prescription medications are indicated when OIC persists despite conservative approaches (eg, increased fiber and fluid intake, exercise, over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners). Phase 3 studies have demonstrated the efficacy of peripherally acting µ-opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORA; methylnaltrexone, naloxegol, naldemedine), and a chloride channel activator (lubiprostone) for improving OIC in patients with chronic noncancer pain. Although head-to-head studies are lacking, a meta-analysis demonstrated that μ-opioid receptor antagonists were more effective than placebo for the treatment of OIC. The most common adverse effects associated with prescription medications for OIC are gastrointestinal related (eg, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or distention), with most being mild or moderate in severity. Therapy currently in development for OIC includes the PAMORA axelopran.

Discussion:

Health care providers should be aware of this complication in patients receiving opioids and should monitor and address constipation-related symptoms to optimize pain management and improve patient quality of life.
Pharmacovigilance Program of India: history, evolution and current status
Authors: Thatte Urmila M. , Chaudhari Nayan L. , Gogtay Nithya J.
Published: October 2018

Unlike developed nations most of whom put into place systems of pharmacovigilance in the early 1960s following the thalidomide disaster, India's Pharmacovigilance Program formally began only in the mid-1980s. After several unsuccessful attempts, a robust program was put in place by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization in 2010 called the Pharmacovigilance Program of India. Today, this is a stable system with the Indian regulator at the helm, a formal legislation in place to support the program and a National Coordinating Center located at the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission. In the 8 years since its resurrection, the activities have expanded by leaps and bounds. There are 250 adverse reactions monitoring centers throughout the country and India contributes 1.7% of Individual Case Safety Reports to the Uppsala Monitoring Center's database. The WHO, recognizing India's concerted efforts in the area of pharmacovigilance, established its first WHO Collaborating Centre for Pharmacovigilance in Public Health Programs and Regulatory Services at the National Coordinating Center. The proposed expansion of the program in the coming years will further strengthen the cause of medicines safety in the country in line with the WHO's Third Global Patient Safety Challenge of Medication without Harm.
Sexual Counseling Provided by Cardiovascular Nurses
Authors: Gök Fadime , Demir Korkmaz Fatma
Published: October 2018

Background:

Although sex lives of patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are affected in various ways and degrees, nurses working with these patients refrain from talking about sexual matters with their patients or encounter barriers trying to do so.

Objective:

The purpose of this descriptive study was to identify attitudes and beliefs of cardiovascular nurses regarding talking to their patients about sexual problems, perceived barriers, and proposed solutions.

Methods:

The sample included 170 nurses working for the cardiology and cardiac surgery departments of 1 university hospital, 2 ministry of health hospitals, and 2 private hospitals in Turkey. Data were collected between April and August 2015 through a 4-section questionnaire including the Sexual Attitude and Beliefs Scale. Descriptive, parametric, and nonparametric statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results:

Most (73.5%) reported not talking to their patients about sexual issues, and only 35.9% stated that they had been educated on how to do so. The major reason for nurses avoiding discussions about sex with their patients was not considering sexuality as a patient care priority (86.4%). Establishing privacy for the patient (91.2%) was the solution proposed by most nurses. The average score of the nurses on the Sexual Attitude and Beliefs Scale was only medium.

Conclusion:

Most of the nurses were untrained about how to talk about sexual problems with their patients and therefore were unable to talk about it freely.
Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness—A Systematic Review of the Literature for the Balance Specialist
Authors: Trinidade Aaron , Goebel Joel A.
Published: October 2018

Objective:

To present a systematic review of the current data on persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD), a useful and relatively new diagnosis for a disorder that has previously been known by many different names. In addition, to discuss diagnostic criteria and management strategies for this condition with the otologist in mind.

Data Sources:

CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, Google Scholar.

Review Method:

The phrase “persistent postural-perceptual dizziness” and its acronym “PPPD” were used.

Results:

From 318 articles, 15 were selected for full analysis with respect to PPPD. Most were case-control studies, with one consensus paper from the Bárány Society available. Overall, the pathophysiology of PPPD remains relatively poorly understood, but is likely to be a maladaptive state to a variety of insults, including vestibular dysfunction and not a structural or psychiatric one. Cognitive behavioral therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) all seem to have a role in its management.

Conclusions:

PPPD is useful as a diagnosis for those treating dizziness as it helps to define a conglomeration of symptoms that can seem otherwise vague and allows for more structured management plans in those suffering from it.
Can Preoperative High Resolution Computed Tomography Be Rationalized in Adult Cochlear Implant Candidates?
Authors: Gaskell Peter , Muzaffar Jameel , Colley Steve , Coulson Chris
Published: October 2018

Objective:

To establish whether criteria can be used to identify patients who do not need high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans before cochlear implant operations, by retrospectively applying a preoperative selection pathway, the Cambridge Cochlear Implant Protocol (CCIP).

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Tertiary referral center, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK (QEHB).

Patients:

One hundred adult patients receiving primary cochlear implantation (CI) operations from April 2015 to July 2016 performed at the QEHB who received preoperative HRCTs.

Main Outcome Measures:

Etiology of hearing loss and anatomical abnormalities were collected by reanalyzing HRCT scans. Patients were retrospectively grouped according to criteria to restrict HRCT use derived from the Cambridge Cochlear Implant Programme (CCIP). The two main outcomes, recorded management change and significant abnormalities, were compared between the two CCIP groups, scanned and not scanned.

Results:

Twenty-six patients had significant abnormalities detected on imaging, 16 in the scanned group and 10 in the not scanned group (p = 0.152). Five patients had a recorded management change as a result of HRCT scan, four scanned group, one not scanned group (p = 0.107). Significant abnormalities and recorded management change were seen across all etiological subgroups of hearing loss.

Conclusion:

The anatomy within the temporal bone is variable amongst CI recipients. Recorded management change and significant abnormalities occurred in both CCIP groups and across many etiologies of hearing loss patients. No specific group, based on the etiology of their hearing loss could be identified that do not require preoperative HRCT. Therefore, it is recommended that all CI patients should continue to receive preoperative HRCT imaging.
Prior History of Pancreatitis Accelerates the Development of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Phillips Anna Evans , Shah Nilesh , Borhani Amir A. , Yadav Dhiraj , Brand Randall E.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Presentation of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) as acute pancreatitis (AP), association of chronic pancreatitis (CP) with PC, and role of inflammation in PC carcinogenesis are well recognized. We hypothesized that inflammatory changes associated with remote history of AP (≥2 years before PC diagnosis) would result in earlier age of PC diagnosis.

Methods

We evaluated PC patients prospectively enrolled in the Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Gene Environment Risk (PAGER) study at the University of Pittsburgh for history of pancreatitis and reviewed relevant medical records and imaging studies. Univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses evaluated the relationship between PC and remote history of AP.

Results

Among 790 patients with histologically confirmed PC, 114 (14.4%) had a history of pancreatitis (AP within 2 years of PC diagnosis in 69 [8.7%], remote history of AP in 28 [3.5%], CP in 4 [0.5%], and unknown duration of pancreatitis in 13 [1.6%]). After controlling for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, alcohol history, and diabetic status at diagnosis, patients with a remote history of AP were diagnosed on average 4.7 years earlier with PC when compared with PC patients without history of AP (P < 0.035).

Conclusions

Remote history of AP may accelerate carcinogenesis in PC.
Concordance of the Balthazar Grade and the Revised Atlanta Classification
Authors: Li Weiran , Luo Shuanghong , Zhu Yu , Shu Min , Wen Yang , Wang Zhiling , Wan Chaomin
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the concordance of the Balthazar grade and the revised Atlanta classification and then establish a modified radiological scoring system that would predict 3 degrees of severity of acute pancreatitis (AP) based on the latest Atlanta classification.

Methods

A retrospective study enrolling pediatric inpatients with AP who had completed computed tomography was conducted between January 2006 and March 2018. The concordance of the 2 radiological scoring systems was assessed with κ statistic.

Results

The Balthazar grade was unable to accurately predict the severity of AP compared with the revised Atlanta classification. However, a modified Balthazar grading system defining patents with Balthazar grades A to C as mild, grade D as moderately, and grade E as severe presented perfect agreement with the revised Atlanta classification across the enrolled population (κ, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.97). The concordance of the modified Balthazar score and the revised Atlanta classification remained a perfect degree of agreement across repeated tests in 90 random samples (κ, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.85–0.85).

Conclusions

The modified Balthazar grade demonstrated perfect agreement with the latest Atlanta classification for AP severity scoring. As such, the modified Balthazar grade can be used to predict 3 degrees of severity of AP.
Predictive Factors for Autoimmune Pancreatitis Relapse After 3 Years of Maintenance Therapy
Authors: Nakamura Akira , Ozawa Makiko , Watanabe Takayuki , Ito Tetsuya , Muraki Takashi , Hamano Hideaki , Koinuma Masayoshi , Kawa Shigeyuki
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Oral corticosteroid treatment is the standard therapy for autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) and is highly effective. However, relapse may occur during maintenance therapy (MT). We aimed to clarify the predictive factors for relapse after 3 years of MT for use in deciding on the continuation of long-term MT.

Methods

Among 56 retrospectively recruited AIP patients who received corticosteroid remission induction therapy followed by MT for a minimum of 5 years, 38 subjects were enrolled after exclusion criteria and divided into the relapse group of patients who experienced relapse after 3 years of MT and the nonrelapse group of patients who did not.

Results

According to multivariate analysis, at least 4 other organ involvement numbers at diagnosis (hazard ratio, 5.82; 95% confidence interval, 1.203–28.192) and IgG of 1400 mg/dL or greater at 3 years of MT (hazard ratio, 4.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.096–17.790) were predictive factors for relapse after MT for 3 years, with patients exhibiting both predictive factors having a higher cumulative relapse rate than those with 1 or fewer predictive factor.

Conclusions

We uncovered 2 predictive factors for AIP relapse after 3 years of MT. These findings will assist in deciding corticosteroid therapy regimens at 3 years of MT to minimize AIP relapse risk and adverse corticosteroid effects.
Association of Time-Varying Rest-Activity Rhythm With Survival in Older Adults With Lung Cancer
Authors: Kuo Lou-Ching , Chang Wen-Pei , Huang Hui-Chuan , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: October 2018

Background

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the relationship of rest-activity rhythm with survival in older adults with lung cancer and to consider variations in rest-activity rhythm over time.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between rest-activity rhythm variations and survival in 33 older adults with lung cancer by considering rest-activity rhythm as a time-dependent covariate over time.

Methods

In this prospective study with 5 repeated measurements, patients' rest-activity rhythm over 3 days was measured using actigraphy. The rest-activity rhythm was represented using the dichotomy index I (in-bed activity) < O (out-of-bed activity). The median I < O was used as the cutoff point, with an I < O of greater than or equal to 85.59% and less than 85.59% indicating robust and disrupted rest-activity rhythms, respectively. Data were analyzed using the Cox regression model with time-dependent repeated measurements of a covariate.

Results

In the time-dependent multivariate Cox model, a disrupted rest-activity rhythm was independently associated with a higher risk of death than was a robust rest-activity rhythm (hazard ratio, 16.05; P = .009).

Conclusion

A time-varying rest-activity rhythm is incrementally associated with mortality in older adults with lung cancer and represents a rigorous and independent prognostic factor for their survival.

Implications for Practice

Clinicians may need to pay more attention to the rest-activity rhythms of older adults with lung cancer during disease progression. Future studies should account for the variation in rest-activity rhythm over time.
Evaluation of a Hospital
Authors: Wilcox Diahann , McCauley Paula S. , Delaney Colleen , Molony Sheila L.
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate the ComPass2c program by (1) effectiveness in reducing 30-day hospital readmissions, (2) reach of program into target population, and (3) implementation of key program elements.

Primary Practice Setting:

An academic hospital in New England (John Dempsey Hospital).

Methodology and Sample:

Retrospective analysis of Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) beneficiaries hospitalized at John Dempsey Hospital between May 1, 2012, and November 30, 2014.

Results:

The program reached 34% of eligible Medicare FFS beneficiaries (n = 832; 61% female, mean age = 79 years). The unadjusted 30-day all-cause readmission rate decreased from 21% to 16.2% (p = .03). Implementation was high for postdischarge phone calls (89%) but low for home visits (34%). The mean change in patient activation scores following completion of the program was 0.15 (SD = 4.79), with no change in patient activation level, χ2 (6) = 3.82, p = .70.

Implications for Case Management Practice:

The ComPass2c program was consistent with the philosophy and standards of case management practice. Case managers will want to utilize an evidence-based instrument with real-time information to identify patients at risk for 30-day readmission. A physical presence of ComPass2c coaches within the hospital enabled a strong hospital–community-based organization (CBO) partnership, facilitating the coordination, communication, and collaboration. Case managers will want to advocate for policy incentivizing hospital–CBO partnerships. Patient activation is essential; case managers may benefit from training in motivational interviewing to improve patient activation and outcomes. Additional research is needed to further elucidate and mitigate barriers to posttransition home visits and patient activation.
Leadership Presence: A “Must” Skill for Impactful Case Manager–Client Relationship
Authors: Tahan Hussein M.
Published: October 2018

Successful case manager–client relationships are those that demonstrate a humanistic, personal, empathetic, and empowering approach to health care provision. This editorial discusses leadership presence as an essential skill for professional case management practice and the impact of such relationships on the client/support system experience of care. It also presents a framework for building impactful and therapeutic relationships. In addition, it offers a list of key strategies that contribute to the success of the professional case manager.
A Clinical Nurse Specialist–Led Initiative to Reduce Deficits in Tube Feeding Administration for the Surgical and Trauma Populations
Authors: Bielewicz Brady John , George Elisabeth , Gunn Scott , Oroukin Meredith , Ren Dianxu , Beach Michael , Tuite Patricia
Published: October 2018

Purpose/Objectives:

The purpose of this clinical nurse specialist–led initiative was to redefine the standard of care to reduce the deficit that exists between the daily amount of tube feedings prescribed versus received by patients in a surgical-trauma intensive care unit.

Description of the Project:

Nutrition plays a vital role in health and wellness. Although nutritional recommendations are not always met by individuals on a daily basis—the presence of in-hospital malnutrition presents greater risks and complications after a surgery or traumatic event. An evidence-based algorithm for initiating and maintaining tube feedings was developed and incorporated into morning bedside report. A preintervention and postintervention chart analysis was done to calculate the amount of tube feedings received by patients during their first 5 days of admission.

Outcomes:

Preintervention data revealed that 29 patients received a mean 49.8% (SD, 21.6%) of tube feedings prescribed, and postintervention data showed 31 patients received 60.4% (SD, 18.5%) of tube feedings prescribed (P = .04).

Conclusion:

Through the implementation of a tube feeding algorithm, there was a reduction of tube feed interruptions and volume deficits during the first 5 days of admission.
Alcohol Withdrawal Assessment Tool
Authors: Davis Carmen R. , Keen Alyson , Holly Vince , Balaguras Jean , Miller Wendy R.
Published: October 2018

Purpose/Aims:

The purpose of this study was to validate a tool to assess alcohol withdrawal in acute care patients. Study aims included (1) establish content validity, (2) examine criterion-related validity, (3) test interrater reliability, and (4) assess nurse usability.

Design:

A psychometric research study was designed to evaluate the Alcohol Withdrawal Assessment Tool.

Methods:

Validation was conducted using an expert panel to determine content validity. The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol–Revised was used as comparison for the criterion related validity. Interrater reliability was determined by having 2 investigators simultaneously complete the assessment on the same patients. Usability was determined using a Likert scale survey.

Results:

The average age of participants was 53 years, with a range of 27 to 81 years. Interrater reliability was supported by a κ statistic range of 0.61 to 0.6957, and content validity was supported by a content validity index of 1.0. Criterion-related validity was supported with a Pearson r correlation of 0.665 (P < .000). Of nurses surveyed, all answered agree or strongly agree to the usability survey.

Conclusions:

The assessment tool may be an effective alternative to utilize in the acute care setting. It is easy to use and drives frequency of assessment and appropriate pharmacologic treatment.
Dynamic alterations of retinal EphA5 expression in retinocollicular map plasticity
Authors: Cheng Qi , Graves Mark D. , Pallas Sarah L.
Published: October 2018

The topographically ordered retinocollicular projection is an excellent system for studying the mechanism of axon guidance. Gradients of EphA receptors in the retina and ephrin-As in the superior colliculus (SC) pattern the anteroposterior axis of the retinocollicular map, but whether they are involved in map plasticity after injury is unknown. Partial damage to the caudal SC at birth creates a compressed, complete retinotopic map in the remaining SC without affecting visual response properties. Previously, we found that the gradient of ephrinA expression in compressed maps is steeper than normal, suggesting an instructive role in compression (Tadesse et al., 2013). Here we measured EphA5 mRNA and protein levels after caudal SC damage in order to test the hypothesis that changes in retinal EphA5 expression occur that are complementary to the changes in collicular ephrin-A expression. We find that the nasotemporal gradient of EphA5 receptor expression steepens in the retina and overall expression levels change dynamically, especially in temporal retina, supporting the hypothesis. This change in receptor expression occurs after the change in ephrin-A ligand expression. We propose that changes in the retinal EphA5 gradient guide recovery of the retinocollicular projection from early injury. This could occur directly through the change in EphA5 expression instructing retino-SC map compression, or through ephrinA ligand signaling instructing a change in EphA5 receptor expression that in turn signals the retinocollicular map to compress. Understanding what molecular signals direct compensation for injury is essential to developing rehabilitative strategies and maximizing the potential for recovery.
A Neural Model of Schemas and Memory Consolidation
Authors: Hwu Tiffany , Krichmar Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2018

The ability to behave differently according to the situation is essential for survival in a dynamic environment. This requires past experiences to be encoded and retrieved alongside the contextual schemas in which they occurred. The complementary learning systems theory suggests that these schemas are acquired through gradual learning via the neocortex and rapid learning via the hippocampus. However, it has also been shown that new information matching a preexisting schema can bypass the gradual learning process and be acquired rapidly, suggesting that the separation of memories into schemas is useful for flexible learning. While there are theories of the role of schemas in memory consolidation, we lack a full understanding of the mechanisms underlying this function. For this reason, we created a biologically plausible neural network model of schema consolidation that studies several brain areas and their interactions. The model uses a rate-coded multilayer neural network with contrastive Hebbian learning to learn context-specific tasks. Our model suggests that the medial prefrontal cortex supports context-dependent behaviors by learning representations of schemas. Additionally, sparse random connections in the model from the ventral hippocampus to the hidden layers of the network gate neuronal activity depending on their involvement within the current schema, thus separating the representations of new and prior schemas. Contrastive Hebbian learning may function similarly to oscillations in the hippocampus, alternating between clamping and unclamping the output layer of the network to drive learning. Lastly, the model shows the vital role of neuromodulation, as a neuromodulatory area detects the certainty of whether new information is consistent with prior schemas and modulates the speed of memory encoding accordingly. Along with the insights that this model brings to the neurobiology of memory, it further provides a basis for creating context-dependent memories while preventing catastrophic forgetting in artificial neural networks.
Root endophytes improve physiological performance and yield in crops under salt stress by up-regulating the foliar sodium concentration
Authors: Molina-Montenegro Marco A. , Acuña-Rodríguez Ian S. , Torres-Díaz Cristian , Gundel Pedro E.
Published: October 2018

Increase in the soil salinity will be a conspicuous constraint for both native plant communities as well as several crops worldwide. In this context plant root-associated fungi appear as a new strategy to improve ecophysiological performance and yield of crops under abiotic stress. Here, we evaluated how the inoculation of fungal endophytes isolated from Antarctic plants can improve the ecophysiological performance in cultivars of tomato and lettuce, grown under different salt conditions. In addition, we assessed if the expression of theNHX1gene that is related with salt tolerance is enhanced in presence of fungal endophytes. Finally, we evaluated the regulation the nutritional status and specifically the Na+content in leaves. Overall, those individuals with presence of endophytes showed higher ecophysiological performance. In addition, the presence of fungal endophytes was correlated with a higher regulation of ion homeostasis by enhanced expression ofNHX1gene. Our results suggest that presence of fungal endophytes could minimize the negative effect of salt by improving osmotic tolerance through ecophysiological and molecular mechanisms. Thus, root-endophytes might be a successful biotechnological tool to maintain high levels of ecophysiological performance and productivity in zones under osmotic stress, acting as potential solution to maintain the global food security.

Highlight

We showed that functional symbiosis improve the physiological performance and yield in crops subjected to salinity, by biochemical and molecular mechanisms. Thus, here we pointed a successful strategy to meet the future challenges for help to maintain the food security.
Prevalence of TMD and level of chronic pain in a group of Brazilian adolescents
Authors: Melo Paulo Correia , Aroucha João Marcílio Coelho Netto Lins , Arnaud Manuela , Lima Maria Goretti Souza , Ximenes Rosana , Gomes Simone Guimarães Farias , Rosenblatt Aronita , de França Caldas Arnaldo ,   Paulo Correia de Melo Júnior, João Marcílio Coelho Netto Lins Aroucha, Manuela
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder and associated factors in an adolescent sample from Recife, Brazil.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1342 adolescents aged 10-17 years. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorder (RDC/TMD) was used by calibrated examiners to evaluate the presence and levels of chronic pain. To evaluate the socioeconomic conditions, the Brazilian Economic Classification Criteria (CCEB) questionnaire was answered by the subjects. Data were analyzed by means of binary logistic regression in SPSS.

Results

The results showed that 33.2% of the subjects had TMD irrespective of age (p= 0.137) or economic class (p=0.507). Statistically significant associations were found between TMD and gender (p= 0.020), headache/migraine in the past six months (p=0,000) and the presence of chronic pain (p=0,000). In final model, logistic regression showed that chronic pain contributes to the presence of TMD.

Conclusions

The prevalence of TMD was considered high (33.2%) and adolescents with chronic pain were more likely to have TMD.

Clinical Relevance

The data contribute to the understanding of TMD among adolescents and to the development of preventive measures and polices to identify the dysfunction promptly.
Dynamics and Selective Remodeling of the DNA Binding Domains of RPA
Authors: Pokhrel Nilisha , Caldwell Colleen C. , Corless Elliot I. , Tillison Emma A. , Tibbs Joseph , Jocic Nina , Ali Tabei S. M. , Wold Marc S. , Spies Maria , Antony Edwin
Published: October 2018

Replication protein A (RPA) coordinates important DNA metabolic events by stabilizing single-strand DNA (ssDNA) intermediates, activating the DNA damage response, and handing off ssDNA to appropriate downstream players. Six DNA binding domains (DBDs) in RPA promote high affinity binding to ssDNA, but also allow RPA displacement by lower affinity proteins. We have made fluorescent versions of RPA and visualized the conformational dynamics of individual DBDs in the context of the full-length protein. We show that both DBD-A and DBD-D rapidly bind to and dissociate from ssDNA, while RPA as a whole remains bound to ssDNA. The recombination mediator protein Rad52 selectively modulates the dynamics of DBD-D. This demonstrates how RPA interacting proteins, with lower ssDNA binding affinity, can access the occluded ssDNA and remodel individual DBDs to replace RPA.

One Sentence Summary

The choreography of binding and rearrangement of the individual domains of RPA during homologous recombination is revealed.
TrkB Activation During a Critical Period Mimics the Protective Effects of Early Visual Experience on Perception and the Stability of Receptive Fields in Adult Superior Colliculus
Authors: Mudd David B. , Balmer Timothy S. , Kim So Yeon , Machhour Noura , Pallas Sarah L.
Published: October 2018

During a critical period in development, spontaneous and evoked retinal activity shape visual pathways in an adaptive fashion. Interestingly, spontaneous activity is sufficient for spatial refinement of visual receptive fields in superior colliculus (SC) and visual cortex (V1), but early visual experience is necessary to maintain inhibitory synapses and stabilize RFs in adulthood (Carrasco et al. 2005, 2011; Carrasco & Pallas 2006; Balmer & Pallas 2015a). In visual cortex (V1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its high affinity receptor TrkB are important for development of visual acuity, inhibition, and regulation of the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity (Hanover et al., 1999; Huang et al., 1999; Gianfranceschi et al., 2003). To examine the generality of this signaling pathway for visual system plasticity, the present study examined the role of TrkB signaling during the critical period for RF refinement in SC. Activating TrkB receptors during the critical period (P33-40) in DR subjects produced normally refined RFs, and blocking TrkB receptors in light-exposed animals resulted in enlarged adult RFs like those in DR animals. We also report here that deprivation- or TrkB blockade-induced RF enlargement in adulthood impaired fear responses to looming overhead stimuli, and negatively impacted visual acuity. Thus, early TrkB activation is both necessary and sufficient to maintain visual RF refinement, robust looming responses, and visual acuity in adulthood. These findings suggest a common signaling pathway exists for the maturation of inhibition between V1 and SC.

Significance Statement

Receptive field refinement in superior colliculus (SC) differs from more commonly studied examples of critical period plasticity in visual pathways in that it does not require visual experience to occur; rather spontaneous activity is sufficient. Maintenance of refinement beyond puberty requires a brief, early exposure to light in order to stabilize the lateral inhibition that shapes receptive fields. We find that TrkB activation during a critical period can substitute for visual experience in maintaining receptive field refinement into adulthood, and that this maintenance is beneficial to visual survival behaviors. Thus, as in some other types of plasticity, TrkB signaling plays a crucial role in RF refinement.
Methylglyoxal modification of TrkB promotes synaptic plasticity and enhances resilience to chronic stress
Authors: Wu Ziyin , Fu Yingxue , Yang Yinfeng , Huang Chao , Zheng Chunli , Guo Zihu , Yang Zihao , Chen Xuetong , Zhu Jinglin , Wang Jinghui , Li Xiaogang , Chen Liyang , Zhou Weiwei , Chen Yangyang , Wang Jiangmei , Yang Yang , Jiang Meng , Chen Sushing , Lu Aiping , Liu Jianlin , Li Yan , Sun Shiguo , Wang Zhenzhong , Xiao Wei , Wang Yonghua
Published: October 2018

The endogenous metabolite methylglyoxal (MGO) has recently emerged as a potential mediator of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression, but its precise mechanism of action remains poorly understood. Here, we find that MGO concentrations are decreased in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in rats subjected to chronic stress, and low-dose MGO treatment remarkedly enhances resilience to stress and alleviates depression-like symptoms. This effect is achieved by MGO’s promotion on the synaptic plasticity in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Bothin vitroandin vivoexperiments show that MGO provokes the dimerization and autophosphorylation of TrkB and the subsequent activation of downstream Akt/CREB signaling, which leads to a rapid and sustained expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We further demonstrate that MGO directly binds to the extracellular domain of TrkB, but not its intracellular domain. In addition, we also identify a natural product luteolin and its derivative lutD as potent inhibitors of Glyoxalase 1 and validate their antidepressant effects in chronic stress rat models. The antidepressant role of endogenous MGO provides a new basis for the understanding and therapeutic intervention design for stress-associated mental disorders.
Understanding the Ca2+-dependent Fluorescence Change in Red Genetically Encoded Ca2+ Indicators
Authors: Molina R.S. , Qian Y. , Wu J. , Shen Y. , Campbell R.E. , Hughes T.E. , Drobizhev M.
Published: October 2018

Genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs) are widely used to illuminate dynamic Ca2+ signaling activity in living cells and tissues. Various fluorescence colors of GECIs are available, including red. Red GECIs are promising because longer wavelengths of light scatter less in tissue, making it possible to image deeper. They are engineered from a circularly permuted red fluorescent protein fused to a Ca2+ sensing domain, calmodulin and a calmodulin-binding peptide. A conformational change in the sensing domain upon binding Ca2+ causes a change in the fluorescence intensity of the fluorescent protein. Three factors could contribute to this change in fluorescence: 1) a shift in the protonation state of the chromophore, 2) a change in fluorescence quantum yield, and 3) a change in the extinction coefficient for one-photon excitation or the two-photon cross section for two-photon excitation. We conducted a systematic study of the photophysical properties of a select cohort of red GECIs in their Ca2+-free and Ca2+-saturated states to determine which factors are most important for the Ca2+-dependent change in fluorescence. In total, we analyzed nine red GECIs, including jRGECO1a, K-GECO1, jRCaMP1a, R-GECO1, R-GECO1.2, CAR-GECO1, O-GECO1, REX-GECO1, and a new variant termed jREX-GECO1. We found that these red GECIs could be separated into three classes that each rely on a particular set of factors. Furthermore, in some cases the magnitude of the change in fluorescence was different depending on one-photon excitation or two-photon excitation by up to a factor of two.
Adaptive control of redundant robot manipulators with null-space compliance
Authors: Xu Qing , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an adaptive control for a redundant robot manipulator interacting physically with the environment, especially with the existence of humans, on its body.

Design/methodology/approach

The redundant properties of the robot manipulator are used and a reference velocity variable is introduced to unify the operation-space tracking control and the null-space impedance control under one common framework. Neural networks are constructed to deal with unstructured and unmodeled dynamic nonlinearities. Lyapunov function is used during the course of control design and simulation studies are carried out to further illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategies.

Findings

Satisfying tracking performance in the operation-space and compliance behavior in the null-space of the redundant robot manipulator are ensured simultaneously.

Originality/value

The design procedure of redundant robot manipulators control can be greatly simplified, and the framework of multi-priority control can be transformed into a joint-space velocity tracking problem via the introducing of a reference velocity variable.
Altice: creating a complex and constantly evolving empire
Authors: Whalley Jason , Curwen Peter
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to shed light on the development of Altice, a French-based but multinational operator of cable and mobile networks.

Design/methodology/approach

A detailed longitudinal case study approach is adopted covering the period 2002 to 2018 (inclusive). Data are drawn from multiple sources, including the annual reports of Altice, its filings with the Securities & Exchange Commission, the prospectuses of Altice S.A. and Altice USA and the trade press.

Findings

The paper demonstrates how, until recently, Altice’s presence in France was relatively limited. This changed, however, with the acquisition of Numericable and SFR. These purchases, along with those of Suddenlink and Cablevision in the USA, were funded by a substantial increase in Altice’s debt burden. To address the negative consequences of this burden, Altice has retrenched through selling or planning to sell some of its operations and spinning-off Altice USA to its existing shareholders.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the complexity of multinational telecommunication companies. The challenges of developing a longitudinal case study of a company that operates in multiple countries through cascading holding companies is also illustrated by the paper.

Practical implications

There is a need for more data to be available in the public domain. This will, amongst other things, facilitate the analysis of companies like Altice that operate internationally and bundle products together to enhance their competitiveness.

Originality/value

This paper charts the growth of Altice, highlighting the role played by frequent merger and acquisition activity and debt in shaping its development and strategy.
Exploring the dimensions of individual privacy concerns in relation to the Internet of Things use situations
Authors: Padyab Ali , Ståhlbröst Anna
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The integration of internet of things (IoT) devices into daily life introduces challenges for the privacy of their users and those who are affected by these devices. This paper explores the factors that affect individual concerns regarding IoT use and how those factors affect the dynamics of privacy management with the presence of an IoT device.

Design/methodology/approach

Four focus groups of individuals and IoT experts were studied to understand the groups’ privacy concerns. The authors adopted a qualitative research method based on grounded theory to find relevant dimensions of situational privacy concerns in IoT use situations.

Findings

The results revealed that fourteen dimensions of individuals’ privacy concerns regarding the IoT are relevant and can be categorized under four key influential factors: collection, IoT device, collected data storage and use of collected data. The authors also analyzed the focus groups using genres of disclosure theory and explored how privacy concerns affect individual privacy management regulations.

Research limitations/implications

This paper contributes to how future research can employ genres of disclosure as a theoretical framework to identify situations where privacy violations occur.

Practical implications

This study can assist service providers and IoT manufacturers in deriving design principles and decreasing concerns by addressing the information that must be communicated to their users.

Originality/value

As opposed to the previous research, which was more inclined to dispositional privacy concerns, this study provides insights into situational privacy concerns when individuals are confronted with the IoT. This study represents the first attempt to investigate the process individuals experience in managing their privacy.
Linked data initiatives in libraries and information centres: a systematic review
Authors: Ali Irfan , Warraich Nosheen Fatima
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study aims to explore linked data (LD) initiatives in libraries and information (LI) centres along with motivating factors to start these LD projects and challenges faced by librarians in implementing LD technology.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objectives of the study, a systematic literature review was conducted. The preferred reporting items were used for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Data were collected from different scholarly databases.

Findings

Findings show that many initiatives were taken in LI centres during the past decade. These LI centres had to face many challenges to implement LD technology. These challenges might include technological issues, scarce financial resources, lack of skilled human resources, low level of awareness among community/librarians, proprietary licence, non-availability of standards and best practices. However, technological challenges were more complex. Systematic review shows that most of the LD initiatives and activities in LI centres take place in developed countries. Overall, the results reveal that most of the libraries are in the infancy stage of LD application because of the ambivalent nature of technology.

Originality/value

This study may be beneficial to devise guidelines to transform the aforementioned different challenges into opportunities. It is also important to provide a holistic picture about the challenges and opportunities of LD through a systematic review of initiatives already taken by LI centres.
Unsteady mixed convection along a permeable exponentially stretching surface
Authors: Patil Prabhugouda Mallanagouda , A. Shashikant
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the influence of slip flow and thermal jump and to investigate its effects on unsteady mixed convection along an exponentially stretching surface. It is also intended to explore the influence of suction/injection and volumetric heat source/sink on the fluid flow.

Design/methodology/approach

The assumed problem is modelled into governing equations which are dimensional non-linear partial differential equations in nature. To obtain solutions, initially the governing equations were made non-dimensional by the suitable non-similar transformations. Then, the dimensionless non-linear partial differential equations are linearized with the aid of Quasilinearization technique. The so obtained equations are discretized by the implicit finite difference method.

Findings

The detailed analysis of the considered problem displays that the non-similarity variable reduces the velocity and temperature profiles. For higher values of mixed convection parameter, the magnitude of velocity profile as well as the Nusselt number increase. The unsteady variable diminishes the fluid flow. The higher values of velocity ratio parameter reduce the skin-friction coefficient. Further, the magnitude of skin-friction coefficient and heat transfer rate are to minimize for increasing values of partial slip and thermal jump parameters, respectively. Volumetric heat source and injection parameters are to rise the flow behavior within the momentum and thermal boundary layers significantly.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, no such investigation has been found in the literature.