bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyopathy syndrome in Atlantic salmon Salmo salar L.: A review of the current state of knowledge
Authors: Garseth Å H , Fritsvold C , Svendsen J C , Bang Jensen B , Mikalsen A B
Published: October 2017

Cardiomyopathy syndrome (CMS) is a severe cardiac disease affecting Atlantic salmon Salmo salar L. The disease was first recognized in farmed Atlantic salmon in Norway in 1985 and subsequently in farmed salmon in the Faroe Islands, Scotland and Ireland. CMS has also been described in wild Atlantic salmon in Norway. The demonstration of CMS as a transmissible disease in 2009, and the subsequent detection and initial characterization of piscine myocarditis virus (PMCV) in 2010 and 2011 were significant discoveries that gave new impetus to the CMS research. In Norway, CMS usually causes mortality in large salmon in ongrowing and broodfish farms, resulting in reduced fish welfare, significant management‐related challenges and substantial economic losses. The disease thus has a significant impact on the Atlantic salmon farming industry. There is a need to gain further basic knowledge about the virus, the disease and its epidemiology, but also applied knowledge from the industry to enable the generation and implementation of effective prevention and control measures. This review summarizes the currently available, scientific information on CMS and PMCV with special focus on epidemiology and factors influencing the development of CMS.
Establishment and characterization of a new cell line from koi brain (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: Wang Y , Zeng W , Wang Q , Li Y , Bergmann S M , Zheng S , Ren Y , Liu C , Chang O , Lee P
Published: October 2017

A novel permanently growing brain cell line from koi (Cyprinus carpio L.) (KB cell line) was established, and its suitability for detection of koi herpesvirus (KHV) was demonstrated in this study. The KB cell line was optimally maintained at 27°C in Leibovitz's L‐15 medium supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum (FBS). It was subcultured more than 100 times, and chromosome analysis revealed that 51.54% of KB cells at passage 80 maintained the abnormal diploid chromosome number 2n = 96 while the modal chromosome number was 2n = 100. The cell line was cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen at −196°C and was recovered from storage after 1 year with good cell viability and vitality. The results of virus isolation demonstrated that KB cells were susceptible to KHV, which was shown by the presence of an obvious cytopathic effect and abundant virus particles. The viral titres of KHV in KB reached 105.73TCID50/0.1 ml within 7 days. Immunofluorescence and Western blot assays confirmed that KB replicated KHV. The newly established KB cell line will serve as a useful tool to elucidate KHV disease (KHVD) pathogenesis.
On Life Cycle Sustainability Unified Analysis
Authors: Kua Harn Wei
Published: October 2017

Life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) does not adequately consider the role of stakeholders in the assessment process, rebound effects, how the concept of vulnerability and resilience are related in a life cycle, and how stakeholders’ risk aversion can be applied to life cycle thinking. Life cycle sustainability unified analysis (LiCSUA) is proposed to address these four issues, while incorporating key features of existing LCSA framework created by Klöpffer and Renner, and the Life Cycle Sustainability Analysis framework proposed under CALCAS. Specifically, as a methodological approach, LiCSUA established the presence of cross‐linking indicators, inter‐ and intradimensional consequences, rebound effects, and potential “transitioning” of these indicators. Stakeholder involvement is effected through a process supported by psychological and sociological theories, and data uncertainties are treated with respect to risk aversion of decision makers who will interpret and apply these data. A mathematical model is also created to link the vulnerability of a life cycle system to stakeholders’ sense of vulnerability, rebound effects, system resilience, interlinkages among life cycle stages, and the adaptive capacity of the life cycle system. Finally, a hypothetical example on wood‐plastic composite is provided to show how the vulnerability and impact caused by a shock can be assessed with the proposed model.
Reactivity and structural evolution of urchin‐like Co nanostructures under controlled environments
Authors: DEMBELE K. , MOLDOVAN S. , HIRLIMANN Ch. , HARMEL J. , SOULANTICA K. , SERP P. , CHAUDRET B. , GAY A.‐S. , MAURY S. , BERLIET A. , FECANT A. , ERSEN O.
Published: October 2017

In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of samples in a controlled gas environment allows for the real time study of the dynamical changes in nanomaterials at high temperatures and pressures up to the ambient pressure (105 Pa) with a spatial resolution close to the atomic scale. In the field of catalysis, the implementation and quantitative use of in situ procedures are fundamental for a better understanding of the behaviour of catalysts in their environments and operating conditions. By using a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)‐based atmospheric gas cell, we have studied the thermal stability and the reactivity of crystalline cobalt nanostructures with initial ‘urchin‐like’ morphologies sustained by native surface ligands that result from their synthesis reaction. We have evidenced various behaviors of the Co nanostructures that depend on the environment used during the observations. At high temperature under vacuum or in an inert atmosphere, the migration of Co atoms towards the core of the particles is activated and leads to the formation of carbon nanostructures using as a template the initial multipods morphology. In the case of reactive environments, for example, pure oxygen, our investigation allowed to directly monitor the voids formation through the Kirkendall effect. Once the nanostructures were oxidised, it was possible to reduce them back to the metallic phase using a dihydrogen flux. Under a pure hydrogen atmosphere, the sintering of the whole structure occurred, which illustrates the high reactivity of such structures as well as the fundamental role of the present ligands as morphology stabilisers. The last type of environmental study under pure CO and syngas (i.e. a mixture of H2:CO = 2:1) revealed the metal particles carburisation at high temperature.
Chemical imaging of a Symbiodinium sp. cell using synchrotron infrared microspectroscopy: a feasibility study
Authors: GORDON B.R. , MARTIN D.E. , BAMBERY K.R. , MOTTI C.A.
Published: October 2017

The symbiotic relationship between corals and Symbiodinium spp. is the key to the success and survival of coral reef ecosystems the world over. Nutrient exchange and chemical communication between the two partners provides the foundation of this key relationship, yet we are far from a complete understanding of these processes. This is due, in part, to the difficulties associated with studying an intracellular symbiosis at the small spatial scales required to elucidate metabolic interactions between the two partners. This feasibility study, which accompanied a more extensive investigation of fixed Symbiodinium cells (data unpublished), examines the potential of using synchrotron radiation infrared microspectroscopy (SR‐IRM) for exploring metabolite localisation within a single Symbiodinium cell. In doing so, three chemically distinct subcellular regions of a single Symbiodinium cell were established and correlated to cellular function based on assignment of diagnostic chemical classes.
Effect of menstrual cycle phase and hormonal treatments on evaluation of tubal patency in baboons
Authors: Jensen Jeffrey T. , Hanna Carol , Mishler Emily , Lim Jeong Y. , Slayden Ov D.
Published: October 2017

Background

We evaluated whether menstrual cycle phase influences the assessment of tubal patency by hysterosalpingography (HSG) in baboons.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of baseline tubal patency studies and serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) values obtained from female baboons used as models for development of non‐surgical permanent contraception in women. The main outcome measure was bilateral tubal patency (BTP) in relationship with estradiol level.

Results

Female baboons (n = 110) underwent a single (n = 81), two (n = 26), or three (n = 3) HSG examinations. In 33/142 (23%) HSG examinations, one or both tubes showed functional occlusion (FO). The median E2 in studies with BTP (49 pg/mL) was significantly higher than in those studies with FO (32 pg/mL, P = .005). Among 18 animals with repeat examinations where serum E2 changed from <60 to ≥ 60 pg/mL, 13 results changed from FO to BTP (P = .0001). No sets showed a change from BTP to FO with an increase in estradiol.

Conclusion

In baboons, functional occlusion of the fallopian tube is associated with low estradiol levels, supporting a role for estrogen‐mediated relaxation of the utero‐tubal junction.
Endogenous ghrelin‐O‐acyltransferase (GOAT) acylates local ghrelin in the hippocampus
Authors: Murtuza Mohammad I. , Isokawa Masako
Published: October 2017

Ghrelin is an appetite‐stimulating peptide. Serine 3 on ghrelin must be acylated by octanoate via the enzyme ghrelin‐O‐acyltransferase (GOAT) for the peptide to bind and activate the cognate receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHSR1a). Interest in GHSR1a increased dramatically when GHSR1a mRNA was demonstrated to be widespread in the brain, including the cortex and hippocampus, indicating that it has multifaceted functions beyond the regulation of metabolism. However, the source of octanoylated ghrelin for GHSR1a in the brain, outside of the hypothalamus, is not well understood. Here, we report the presence of GOAT and its ability to acylate non‐octanoylated ghrelin in the hippocampus. GOAT immunoreactivity is aggregated at the base of the dentate granule cell layer in the rat and wild‐type mouse. This immunoreactivity was not affected by the pharmacological inhibition of GHSR1a or the metabolic state‐dependent fluctuation of systemic ghrelin levels. However, it was absent in the GHSR1a knockout mouse hippocampus, pointing the possibility that the expression of GHSR1a may be a prerequisite for the production of GOAT. Application of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐conjugated non‐octanoylated ghrelin in live hippocampal slice culture (but not in fixed culture or in the presence of GOAT inhibitors) mimicked the binding profile of FITC‐conjugated octanoylated ghrelin, suggesting that extracellularly applied non‐octanoylated ghrelin was acylated by endogenous GOAT in the live hippocampus while GOAT being mobilized out of neurons. Our results will advance the understanding for the role of endogenous GOAT in the hippocampus and facilitate the search for the source of ghrelin that is intrinsic to the brain.

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Ca2+‐dependent down‐regulation of human histamine H1receptors in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Hishinuma Shigeru , Komazaki Hiroshi , Tsukamoto Hayato , Hatahara Hirokazu , Fukui Hiroyuki , Shoji Masaru
Published: October 2017

Gq/11protein‐coupled human histamine H1receptors in Chinese hamster ovary cells stimulated with histamine undergo clathrin‐dependent endocytosis followed by proteasome/lysosome‐mediated down‐regulation. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+concentrations induced by a receptor‐bypassed stimulation with ionomycin, a Ca2+ionophore, on the endocytosis and down‐regulation of H1receptors in Chinese hamster ovary cells. All cellular and cell‐surface H1receptors were detected by the binding of [3H]mepyramine to intact cells sensitive to the hydrophobic and hydrophilic H1receptor ligands, mepyramine and pirdonium, respectively. The pretreatment of cells with ionomycin markedly reduced the mepyramine‐ and pirdonium‐sensitive binding sites of [3H]mepyramine, which were completely abrogated by the deprivation of extracellular Ca2+and partially by a ubiquitin‐activating enzyme inhibitor (UBEI‐41), but were not affected by inhibitors of calmodulin (W‐7 or calmidazolium) and protein kinase C (chelerythrine orGF109203X). These ionomycin‐induced changes were also not affected by inhibitors of receptor endocytosis via clathrin (hypertonic sucrose) and caveolae/lipid rafts (filipin or nystatin) or by inhibitors of lysosomes (E‐64, leupeptin, chloroquine, orNH4Cl), proteasomes (lactacystin orMG‐132), and a Ca2+‐dependent non‐lysosomal cysteine protease (calpain) (MDL28170). Since H1receptors were normally detected by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy with an antibody against H1receptors, even after the ionomycin treatment, H1receptors appeared to exist in a form to which [3H]mepyramine was unable to bind. These results suggest that H1receptors are apparently down‐regulated by a sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+concentrations with no process of endocytosis and lysosomal/proteasomal degradation of receptors.

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Patterning spinal nerves and vertebral bones
Authors: Keynes Roger
Published: October 2017

A prominent anatomical feature of the peripheral nervous system is the segmentation of mixed (motor, sensory and autonomic) spinal nerves alongside the spinal cord. During early development their axon growth cones avoid the developing vertebral elements by traversing the anterior/cranial half of each somite‐derived sclerotome, so ensuring the separation of spinal nerves from vertebral bones as axons extend towards their peripheral targets. A glycoprotein expressed on the surface of posterior half‐sclerotome cells confines growth cones to the anterior half‐sclerotomes by contact repulsion. A closely similar glycoprotein is expressed in avian and mammalian grey matter, where we hypothesize it may have evolved to regulate neural plasticity in birds and mammals.
Prevalence of rear seat belt use among pregnant women in a suburban area of Japan
Authors: Ogawa Shota , Shinozaki Hiromitsu , Hayashi Kunihiko , Itoh Masahiro , Soda Masayuki , Kameda Takashi , Ozawa Kiyoshi , Yokota Hidemi , Kamioka Kiyoshi , Minegishi Takashi
Published: October 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to clarify the prevalence and influencing factors of rear seat belt use among pregnant women.

Methods

Questionnaires were given to 1546 pregnant women who visited obstetrics clinics and hospitals for prenatal checkups from October to December 2013. A total of 1494 pregnant women (96.6%) agreed to participate in this study and completed the questionnaire.

Results

Fewer than 20% of the rear‐seat passengers ‘always’ used seat belts before and during pregnancy, whereas a third ‘never’ used a seat belt before or during pregnancy. There was no significant decrease in seat belt use by rear‐seat passengers during compared to before pregnancy. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, knowledge of how to use a seat belt during pregnancy, belief in the compulsory use of a rear seat belt and driver behavioral characteristics before pregnancy were associated with rear seat belt use during pregnancy.

Conclusions

The prevalence of fastening seat belts was substantially low. The provision of information regarding proper seat belt use and its role in protecting the fetus may increase use.
Area under the curve of temporal estrogen and progesterone measurements during assisted reproductive technology: Which hormone is the main determinant of cycle outcome?
Authors: Ozkaya Enis , Kutlu Tayfun , Abide Yayla Cigdem , Kayatas Eser Semra , Sanverdi Ilhan , Devranoglu Belgin
Published: October 2017

Aim

Is there any relationship between estrogen and progesterone concentrations during assisted reproductive technology (ART)? Which hormone is the main determinant of impaired endometrial receptivity?

Methods

This study was conducted from July to December 2016 at the in vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection unit at Zeynep Kamil Women and Children's Health Training and Research Hospital. A total of 289 women who underwent ART were prospectively screened and areas under the curve of temporal estrogen (AUCEM) and progesterone measurements (AUCPM) were calculated for each participant. Women were included if they had regular menstrual cycles, normal serum prolactin levels and had not received hormone treatment within three months. ART was indicated in all patients for unexplained infertility. Patients were divided into two groups: with (n = 90) and without (n = 199) embryo implantation. The relationship between the two AUCs and ART success was assessed in terms of embryo implantation and clinical pregnancy.

Results

Implantation was successful in 90 (31.1%) women, and a fetal heart rate was detected in 83 (28.7%) cases. There was a significant correlation between AUCEM and AUCPM (r = 0.525, P < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed significant associations between failure of implantation, lack of clinical pregnancy and AUCEM (beta coefficient = 0.311, P < 0.001; beta coefficient = 0.297, P < 0.001, respectively) after adjusting for AUCPM.

Conclusion

Our data showed that the degree of endometrial estrogen exposure is the main factor functioning as a detrimental effect of ovarian stimulation on endometrial receptivity.
Group Consumption and Product Diversity: The Case of Smoking Bans
Authors: Foucart Renaud
Published: October 2017

I study product diversity in the presence of search costs and groups of consumers. Groups with heterogeneous tastes create a leverage effect on competition: a large majority of firms may end up offering a product that corresponds to the taste of the minority. I illustrate this idea with smoking bans in bars and restaurants. When the first nonsmoking restaurants opened, there were few of them with little competition and high market power on nonsmokers. By extracting a large surplus from nonsmokers, nonsmoking restaurants became unattractive to other groups, while smoking restaurants were plenty and competitive, attracting both smokers and mixed groups.
Protein expression during early stages of bone regeneration under hydrophobic and hydrophilic titanium domes. A pilot study
Authors: Calciolari E. , Mardas N. , Dereka X. , Anagnostopoulos A. K. , Tsangaris G. T. , Donos N.
Published: October 2017

Background and objectives

There is significant evidence that, during the early stages of osseointegration, moderately rough hydrophilic (SLActive) surfaces can accelerate osteogenesis and increase bone‐to‐implant contact in comparison to hydrophobic (SLA) surfaces. However, very little is known regarding the molecular mechanisms behind the influence that surface chemistry modifications to increase hydrophilicity determine on bone healing. The aim of this study was to describe for the first time the proteins and related signalling pathways expressed during early osseous healing stages under SLA and SLActive titanium domes for guided bone regeneration.

Material and methods

One SLA and 1 SLActive dome with an internal diameter of 5.0 mm and a height of 3.0 mm were secured to the parietal bones of nine 6‐month‐old male New Zealand rabbits. Three animals were randomly euthanized at 4, 7 and 14 days and the newly formed tissues retrieved under the domes were analysed with liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. STRING and KEGG databases were applied for Gene Ontology and pathway analyses.

Results

A different modulation of several pathways was detected between the 2 groups at all healing times. The main differences in the osseous healing response associated to the 2 surfaces were related to pathways involved in regulating the inflammatory response, differentiation of osteoblast precursors and skeletogenesis. At day 7, the highest number of proteins and the highest cellular activity were observed in both groups, although a more complex and articulated proteome in terms of cellular metabolism and signal transduction was observed in SLActive samples.

Conclusion

This is the first study describing the proteome expressed during early healing stages of guided bone regeneration and osseointegration. A combination of enhanced early osteogenic response and reduced inflammatory response were suggested for the hydrophilic group. Future studies are needed to corroborate these findings and explore the molecular effects of different titanium surfaces on the cascade of events taking place during bone formation.
Observation and determination of periodontal tissue profile using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Kakizaki S. , Aoki A. , Tsubokawa M. , Lin T. , Mizutani K. , Koshy G. , Sadr A. , Oda S. , Sumi Y. , Izumi Y.
Published: October 2017

Background and Objective

Diagnosis is a crucial step in periodontal treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for observation and determination of periodontal tissue profiles in vivo.

Material and Methods

In experiment 1, refractive indices of purified water, porcine gingiva and human gingiva at 1330 nm were determined for the analysis of OCT images of periodontal tissues. In experiment 2, OCT examination was performed in the midlabial apico‐coronal plane of mandibular anteriors in 30 Asian volunteers with healthy gingiva. Sulcus depth was measured on intra‐oral photographs taken during probing. In the OCT images, the gingival, epithelial and connective tissue thickness, and the position of alveolar bone crest were determined and finally, the biologic width was measured.

Results

Refractive indices of purified water, porcine gingiva and human gingiva were 1.335, 1.393 and 1.397, respectively. Cross‐sectional images of gingival epithelium, connective tissue and alveolar bone were depicted in real‐time. The sulcular and junctional epithelium could be visualized occasionally. Laser penetration and reflection were limited to a certain depth with an approximate maximal imaging depth capability of 1.5 mm and OCT images of the periodontal structure were not clear in some cases. The average maximal thickness of gingiva and epithelium and biologic width at the mandibular anteriors were 1.06 ± 0.21, 0.49 ± 0.15 and 2.09 ± 0.60 mm, respectively.

Conclusion

OCT has promise for non‐invasive observation of the periodontal tissue profile in detail and measurement of internal periodontal structures including biologic width in the anterior region.
Effects of paraoxonase 1 on the cytodifferentiation and mineralization of periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Masumoto R. , Kitagaki J. , Matsumoto M. , Miyauchi S. , Fujihara C. , Yamashita M. , Yamada S. , Kitamura M. , Murakami S.
Published: October 2017

Background and Objective

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) are known to be associated with the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and periodontitis. However, the effects of PON1 on the osteoblastic differentiation of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells are unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of PON1 on the osteoblastic differentiation of PDL cells, and analysed the role of PON1 SNPs on the pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) in the Japanese population.

Material and Methods

Human PDL (HPDL) cells were exposed to the PON1 plasmid and PON1 inhibitor, 2‐hydroxyquinoline, and cultured in mineralization medium. Expression of calcification‐related genes and calcified nodule formation were assessed by real‐time PCR, an alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) activity assay and Alizarin red staining. Sanger sequencing was performed to evaluate whether PON1 SNPs are associated with the pathogenesis of AgP in Japanese people.

Results

During osteoblastic differentiation of HPDL cells, expression of PON1 mRNA increased in a time‐dependent manner. PON1 stimulated an increase in expression of mRNA for calcification‐related genes, as well as ALPase activity. In contrast, 2‐hydroxyquinoline clearly inhibited the expression of calcification‐related genes, ALPase activity and calcified nodule formation in HPDL cells. Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in the minor allele frequency of PON1 SNP rs854560 between the Japanese control database and patients with AgP in the Japanese population (P = .0190).

Conclusion

PON1 induced cytodifferentiation and mineralization of HPDL cells, and PON1 SNP rs854560 may be associated with the pathogenesis of AgP in the Japanese population.
Polydopamine deposition with anodic oxidation for better connective tissue attachment to transmucosal implants
Authors: Teng F. , Chen H. , Xu Y. , Liu Y. , Ou G.
Published: October 2017

Background and Objective

Nowadays, most designs for the transmucosal surface of implants are machined‐smooth. However, connective tissue adhered to the smooth surface of an implant has poor mechanical resistance, which can render separation of tissue from the implant interface and induce epithelial downgrowth. Modification of the transmucosal surface of implants, which can help form a good seal of connective tissue, is therefore desired. We hypothesized that anodic oxidation (AO) and polydopamine (PD) deposition could be used to enhance the attachment between an implant and peri‐implant connective tissue. We tested this hypothesis in the mandibles of Beagle dogs.

Material and Methods

AO and PD were used to modify the transmucosal region of transmucosal implants (implant neck). The surface microstructure, surface roughness and elemental composition were investigated in vitro. L929 mouse fibroblasts were cultured to test the effect of PD on cell adhesion. Six Beagle dogs were used for the in vivo experiment (n = 6 dogs per group). Three months after building the edentulous animal model, four groups of implants (control, AO, PD and AO + PD) were inserted. After 4 months of healing, samples were harvested for histometric analyses.

Results

The surfaces of anodized implant necks were overlaid with densely distributed pores, 2–7 μm in size. On the PD‐modified surfaces, N1s, the chemical bond of nitrogen in PD, was detected using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. L929 developed pseudopods more quickly on the PD‐modified surfaces than on the surfaces of the control group. The in vivo experiment showed a longer connective tissue seal and a more coronally located peri‐implant soft‐tissue attachment in the AO + PD group than in the control group (P < .05).

Conclusion

The modification of AO + PD on the implant neck yielded better attachment between the implant and peri‐implant connective tissue.
Calibrating actigraphy to improve sleep efficiency estimates
Authors: Khan Christina T. , Woodward Steven H.
Published: October 2017

Actigraphy (ACT) can enhance treatment for insomnia by providing objective estimates of sleep efficiency; however, only two studies have assessed the accuracy of actigraphy‐based estimates of sleep efficiency (ACT‐SE) in sleep‐disordered samples studied at home. Both found poor correspondence with polysomnography‐based estimates (PSG‐SE). The current study tested that concordance in a third sample and piloted a method for improving ACT‐SE. Participants in one of four diagnostic categories (panic disorder, post‐traumatic stress disorder, comorbid post‐traumatic stress and panic disorder and controls without sleep complaints) underwent in‐home recording of sleep using concurrent ambulatory PSG and actigraphy. Precisely synchronized PSG and ACT recordings were obtained from 41 participants. Sleep efficiency was scored independently using conventional methods, and ACT‐SE/PSG‐SE concordance examined. Next, ACT data recorded initially at 0.5 Hz were resampled to 30‐s epochs and rescaled on a per‐participant basis to yield optimized concordance between PSG‐ and ACT‐based sleep efficiency estimates. Using standard scoring of ACT, the correlation between ACT‐SE and PSG‐SE across participants was statistically significant (r = 0.35, P < 0.025), although ACT‐SE failed to replicate a main effect of diagnosis. Individualized calibration of ACT against a night of PSG yielded a significantly higher correlation between ACT‐SE and PSG‐SE (r = 0.65, P < 0.001; z = 1.692, P = 0.0452, one‐tailed) and a significant main effect of diagnosis that was highly correspondent with the effect on PSG‐SE. ACT‐based estimates of sleep efficiency in sleep‐disordered patients tested at home can be improved significantly by calibration against a single night of concurrent PSG.
Enhanced natural killer cell activity is found in exposed uninfected recipients of hepatitis C‐contaminated blood
Authors: Ow M. M. , Hegazy D. , Warshow U. M. , Cramp M. E.
Published: October 2017

A minority of injecting drug users, termed exposed uninfected, are resistant to hepatitis C (HCV) infection despite repeated low‐dose exposures. We identify for the first time a cohort of blood recipients who remained uninfected despite large‐dose exposure to HCV‐contaminated blood and characterize immune factors that may confer protection. Of 1340 blood recipients from the English Look Back database who were transfused HCV‐contaminated blood, we identified 8 who remained uninfected. In these 8 exposed uninfecteds, we characterized their natural killer (NK) cell populations and HCV‐specific T‐cell responses. Findings were compared with 10 spontaneous resolvers of HCV infection, 10 patients with chronic HCV infection and 10 healthy controls. Exposed uninfecteds had significantly greater numbers of NK cells with the activating receptor NKp30+ on CD56bright and CD56dim subsets compared with other groups (P < .05). Following interleukin‐2 activation, NK cells of exposed uninfecteds had enhanced cytotoxicity that positively correlated with NKp30 expression (P = .02). Differences in NKp80 and KIR2DL3 expression were also observed. HCV‐specific T‐cell responses were observed in some exposed uninfecteds but of low amplitude. Exposure without infection following transfusion of HCV‐contaminated blood is a very rare phenomenon and suggests a high level of resistance to infection. Enhanced NK cell activation and killing, with weak HCV‐specific T‐cell responses, were observed many years after exposure in uninfected recipients and may contribute to protection from HCV acquisition, although additional protective factors are being sought in this important cohort.
A report on the mosquitoes of mainland Åland, southwestern Finland and revised list of Finnish mosquitoes
Authors: CULVERWELL C. L.
Published: October 2017

To successfully implement surveillance or control strategies for mosquitoes, up‐to‐date knowledge of regional species composition is vital. The last report regarding mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Åland archipelago, southwestern Finland listed 19 species (Utrio, 1979). To determine the current species diversity, one collection trip was made to mainland Åland in 2015 and three in 2016. Mosquitoes (n = 3286) were collected as both adult and immature life stages from 88 collections within 29 1‐km2 areas. Fifteen of the 19 previously reported species were obtained, leaving the current status of four species uncertain. At least 11 species previously not reported from Åland, but confirmed on the Finnish mainland, were collected. Aedes geminus Peus was identified based on examination of the gonostylus, and represents a new species distribution for Finland. Anopheles maculipennis s.s. Meigen was confirmed from cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequence data and is reinstated on the list of Finnish species, along with Ochlerotatus sticticus (Meigen). Dahliana geniculata (Olivier) was found in two locations, in 2 months, indicating that there is an established population in Åland. The present data confirm that at least 27 species inhabit mainland Åland, rising to 31 when historical data are included. The Finnish mosquito fauna is increased from 38 to 41 species.
In vitro antifungal activity of amphotericin B and 11 comparators against Aspergillus terreus species complex
Authors: Vaezi Afsane , Fakhim Hamed , Arastehfar Amir , Shokohi Tahereh , Hedayati Mohammad T. , Khodavaisy Sadegh , Rezaei‐Matehkolaei Ali , Badiee Parisa , Hagen Ferry , Lass‐Flörl Cornelia , Dannaoui Eric , Meis Jacques F. , Badali Hamid
Published: October 2017

Aspergillus terreus infections are difficult to treat because of the intrinsic resistance to amphotericin B, and higher mortality compared to infections caused by other Aspergillus species. The aim of the present study was to determine the in vitro antifungal activity of amphotericin B and 11 comparators against clinical (n = 36) and environmental (n = 45) A. terreus isolates. In vitro antifungal susceptibility was performed using the CLSI M38‐A2 procedure. Amphotericin B exhibited the highest MICs (MIC range, 0.125‐4 μg/mL; MIC90, 2 μg/mL), followed by terbinafine (MIC range, 0.002‐1 μg/mL; MIC90, 1 μg/mL). Only one isolate (1/81) showed amphotericin B MIC above the epidemiologic cut‐off value (ECV; 4 μg/mL). None of the isolates had a MIC of ≥ ECV for voriconazole, itraconazole and posaconazole. The reasons for the difference in amphotericin B susceptibility patterns between studies remain unknown. The genetic and species diversity, clinical, environmental and ecological factors in Terrei section on various amphotericin B susceptibility profiles in different countries should be considered more as the main reasons associated with these differences.
Primary central nervous system extranodal nasal‐type natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma with CD20 expression
Authors: Li Dujuan , Fu Fangfang , Lian Lifei
Published: October 2017

We report a unique case of primary CNS extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma (PCNS ENKTCL) with CD20 expression and the monoclonal rearrangement of Ig heavey chain (IgH) gene. Resection specimens were evaluated using HE‐stained sections, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and PCR. Histopathologic examination, immunohistochemistry and molecular studies showed the intermediate‐sized lymphoma cells expressing CD2, CD3ε, granzyme B, TIA‐1, CD20 and Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded RNA, with germline T‐cell receptor gene and the monoclonal rearrangement of IgH gene. Clinicopathologic and radiographic evaluation indicated the lesion was of exclusive left cerebellar localization. Thus, PCNS ENKTCL with the CD20 expression was diagnosed. ENKTCL with both CD20‐positive expression and the monoclonal rearrangement of IgH gene may be mistaken for B‐cell lymphoma; thus, the comprehensive evaluation of histomorphology, more extensive immunoprofiles and molecular studies is essential to reach the correct diagnosis. The rare PCNS ENKTCL shows a highly aggressive nature and a poorer prognosis.
Theoretical development in the context of nursing—The hidden epistemology of nursing theory
Authors: Hoeck Bente , Delmar Charlotte
Published: October 2017

This article is about nursing theories, the development of nursing knowledge and the underlying, hidden epistemology. The current technical–economical rationality in society and health care calls for a specific kind of knowledge based on a traditional Western, Socratic view of science. This has an immense influence on the development of nursing knowledge. The purpose of the article was therefore to discuss the hidden epistemology of nursing knowledge and theories seen in a broad historical context and point to an alternative epistemology for a future context. It is a question about which nursing theories and what nursing knowledge should be developed in order to benefit patients and relatives of the future. We suggest that future knowledge development in nursing be developed in an interchange between theory and practice and guided by philosophy like a kind of pendulum where all three elements are treated as equals. We suggest a framework for the development of nursing knowledge based on a caring‐ethical practice, a theory on life phenomena in suffering and relationship‐based nursing, and thereby, we may be able to help patients to be cured, to recover, to be alleviated or comforted when suffering.
Adolescent mothers’ anthropometrics and grandmothers’ schooling predict infant anthropometrics in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam
Authors: Schott Whitney , Aurino Elisabetta , Penny Mary E. , Behrman Jere R.
Published: October 2017

We investigated intergenerational associations of adolescent mothers’ and grandmothers’ anthropometrics and schooling with adolescent mothers’ offspring's anthropometrics in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam. We examined birthweight (n = 283), birthweight Z‐score (BWZ), conditional growth in weight‐for‐age Z‐score (cWAZ, residuals from a regression of WAZ at last survey round on BWZ, sex, and age), and height‐for‐age Z‐score (HAZ) of children born to older cohort adolescent girls in the Young Lives study. Our key independent variables were adolescent mothers’ body size: HAZ and body‐mass‐index‐for‐age Z‐score (BMIZ) at age 8, conditional HAZ (cHAZ, residuals from a regression of HAZ at the end of a growth period on prior HAZ, age, and sex), conditional BMIZ growth (cBMIZ, calculated analogously), and grandmaternal BMIZ, HAZ, and schooling. We adjusted for child, maternal, and household characteristics. Adolescent mothers’ cHAZ (ages 8–15) predicted birthweight ( = 130 g, 95% confidence interval (CI) 31–228), BWZ ( = 0.31, CI 0.09–0.53), and cWAZ ( = 0.28, CI 0.04–0.51). Adolescent mothers’ BMIZ at age 8 predicted birthweight ( = 79 g, CI 16–43) and BWZ ( = 0.22, CI 0.08–0.36). Adolescent mothers’ cBMIZ (ages 12–15) predicted child cWAZ and HAZ. Grandmothers’ schooling predicted grandchild birthweight ( = 22 g, CI 1–44) and BWZ ( = 0.05, CI 0.01–0.10).
Wearable cardioverter defibrillators in schools: A guide for parents and educators
Authors: Burch Ashley E. , Spar David S. , Sears Samuel F.
Published: October 2017

Keeping children safe is a goal for everyone. To stay safe, some children need a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). WCDs protect individuals who are at risk for life‐threatening arrhythmias. The LifeVest® (ZOLL, Pittsburgh, PA, USA) is a WCD that identifies, records, and treats potentially life‐threatening abnormal heartbeats, or arrhythmias. The WCD will provide electrical energy to the heart with up to five high‐energy shocks if a potentially dangerous cardiac arrhythmia is detected. This type of arrhythmia, if not treated within a short time period (less than 2 minutes), can result in disruption of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs (that is, a sudden cardiac arrest), and death can occur within minutes. A shock delivered by the LifeVest can terminate an arrhythmia and restore a normal heart rhythm and blood flow to the body. In December 2015, the Food and Drug Administration approved the LifeVest for patients under 18 years old. The purpose of this guide is to serve as a resource for parents and educators, to promote awareness of the LifeVest, and to answer questions about the safety of the LifeVest in schools.
Role of ultrasound measuring position and ventilation pressure in determining correct tube size in children
Authors: Schramm Christoph , Eisleben Luzie S. , Kessler Jens , Jensen Katrin , Plaschke Konstanze
Published: October 2017

Background

Ultrasound measurements of the airway are useful for determining correctly sized, uncuffed endotracheal tubes in children.

Aims

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of ventilation pressure on the sonographically measured tracheal diameter at different levels.

Methods

A total of 100 patients (under 7 years) were enrolled in this study. Six sonographic measurements of minimal transverse diameters at 3 locations (vocal chords, cricoid cartilage, and proximal trachea) and at 2 different ventilation pressures (0 and 15 mbar) were performed before the intubation procedure. The intubating anesthesiologists were blinded to the results of the ultrasound measurements. The rate of agreement of the outer diameter of the correctly sized endotracheal tube (reference) with the 6 sonographic diameters was determined. In addition, the correct tube sizes were compared with the results of traditional prediction methods (Penlington's and Cole's formula in children ≥1 year and a decision table in children <1 year).

Results

Best rate of agreement resulted from cricoid cartilage (70% and 83% at 0 and 15 mbar).

Conclusion

The airway level selected for ultrasound and airway pressure during measurement determines the rate of agreement between the measurement result and correct ETT size.
A quality improvement initiative to increase the safety of pediatric emergency airway management
Authors: Long Elliot , Cincotta Domenic R. , Grindlay Joanne , Sabato Stefano , Fauteux‐Lamarre Emmanuelle , Beckerman David , Carroll Terry , Quinn Nuala
Published: October 2017

Background

Emergency airway management is commonly associated with life‐threatening hypoxia and hypotension which may be preventable.

Aims

The aim of this quality improvement study was to reduce the frequency of intubation‐related hypoxia and hypotension.

Methods

This prospective quality improvement study was conducted over 4 years in the Emergency Department of The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. A preintervention cohort highlighted safety gaps and was used to design study interventions, including an emergency airway algorithm, standardized airway equipment, a preintubation checklist and equipment template, endtidal carbon dioxide monitoring, postintubation team debriefing, and multidisciplinary team training. Following implementation, a postintervention cohort was used to monitor the impact of study interventions on clinical process and patient outcome. Process measures were as follows: use of a preintubation checklist, verbalization of an airway plan, adequate resuscitation prior to intubation, induction agent dose titration, use of apneic oxygenation, and use of endtidal carbon dioxide to confirm endotracheal tube position. The primary outcome measure was first pass success rate without hypoxia or hypotension. Potential harms from study interventions were monitored.

Results

Forty‐six intubations were included over one calendar year in the postintervention cohort (compared to 71 in the preintervention cohort). Overall clinical uptake of the 6 processes measures was 85%. First pass success rate without hypoxia or hypotension was 78% in the postintervention cohort compared with 49% in the preintervention cohort (absolute risk reduction: 29.0%; 95% confidence interval 12.3%‐45.6%, number needed to treat: 3.5). No significant harms from study interventions were identified.

Conclusion

Quality improvement initiatives targeting emergency airway management may be successfully implemented in the emergency department and are associated with a reduction in adverse intubation‐related events.
Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems for the Management of Chronic Noncancer Pain: A Systematic Review of Economic Evaluations
Authors: Duarte Rui V. , Lambe Tosin , Raphael Jon H. , Eldabe Sam , Andronis Lazaros
Published: October 2017

Background

Intrathecal drug delivery (ITDD) systems are one of a limited number of management options for chronic noncancer pain, cancer pain, and spasticity. Concerns over their effectiveness and high initial costs led National Health Service (NHS) England to decommissionITDDfor patients with chronic noncancer pain. However, the extent to which this decision is in line with existing economic evidence is unclear. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and review the existing evidence on the cost effectiveness ofITDDfor chronic noncancer pain.

Methods

Full and partial economic evaluations onITDDwere identified through systematic searches inMEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the NHS for Reviews and Dissemination databases. Database searches were complemented by hand searching of reference lists of relevant studies and searches of grey literature. Study selection was carried out by 2 assessors, independently. Study quality assessment was performed to inform critical appraisal of health economics studies. Data were extracted using a data extraction form developed for the purposes of this study.

Results

Four thousand four hundred and sixty‐four unique studies were identified, of which 7 met the inclusion criteria. With the exception of 1 study, the studies foundITDDto be either cost saving or cost effective compared to conventional medical management.ITDDbecame cost ineffective in 1 further study following price year adjustment to 2016.

Conclusions

Study findings showedITDDto be not cost effective only in extremely conservative scenarios. There is limited evidence on the effectiveness ofITDDin noncancer pain; however, the available economic evidence controverts arguments to refute the treatment on economic grounds.
Pyridoxamine: A novel treatment for schizophrenia with enhanced carbonyl stress
Authors: Itokawa Masanari , Miyashita Mitsuhiro , Arai Makoto , Dan Takashi , Takahashi Katsuyoshi , Tokunaga Taro , Ishimoto Kayo , Toriumi Kazuya , Ichikawa Tomoe , Horiuchi Yasue , Kobori Akiko , Usami Satoshi , Yoshikawa Takeo , Amano Naoji , Washizuka Shinsuke , Okazaki Yuji , Miyata Toshio
Published: October 2017

Aim

The aim of this clinical trial was to obtain proof of concept for high‐dose pyridoxamine as a novel treatment for schizophrenia with enhanced carbonyl stress.

Methods

Ten Japanese schizophrenia patients with high plasma pentosidine, which is a representative biomarker of enhanced carbonyl stress, were recruited in a 24‐week, open trial in which high‐dose pyridoxamine (ranging from 1200 to 2400 mg/day) was administered using a conventional antipsychotic regimen. Main outcomes were the total change in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale score from baseline to end of treatment at week 24 (or at withdrawal).

Results

Decreased plasma pentosidine levels were observed in eight patients. Two patients showed marked improvement in their psychological symptoms. A patient who harbors a frameshift mutation in the Glyoxalase 1 gene also showed considerable reduction in psychosis accompanied with a moderate decrease in plasma pentosidine levels. A reduction of greater than 20% in the assessment scale of drug‐induced Parkinsonism occurred in four patients. Although there was no severe suicide‐related ideation or behavior, Wernicke's encephalopathy‐like adverse drug reactions occurred in two patients and were completely suppressed by thiamine supplementation.

Conclusion

High‐dose pyridoxamine add‐on treatment was, in part, effective for a subpopulation of schizophrenia patients with enhanced carbonyl stress. Further randomized, placebo‐controlled trials with careful monitoring will be required to validate the efficacy of high‐dose pyridoxamine for these patients.
Short‐ and long‐term evaluation of cognitive functions after electroconvulsive therapy in a Japanese population
Authors: Takagi Shunsuke , Takeuchi Takashi , Yamamoto Naoki , Fujita Munehisa , Furuta Ko , Ishikawa Hiroyo , Motohashi Nobutaka , Nishikawa Toru
Published: October 2017

Aim

While electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a well‐established, safe, and effective treatment for mental illnesses, the potential for adverse effects on cognitive functions remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate multiple cognitive functions in different time periods before and after ECT in a Japanese population.

Methods

A battery of five neurocognitive tests was administered to patients who underwent a course of ECT treatment at three time points: before, immediately after, and 4 weeks after ECT.

Results

A transient but significant decline in letter fluency function was observed immediately after ECT, but had recovered well by 4 weeks. We also observed a significant improvement in the trail‐making task at 4 weeks after ECT.

Conclusion

In a Japanese population, adverse effects of ECT on verbal fluency function‐related and other cognitive impairments were transient. Over the longer term, we detected significant improvements in the performance of tasks that presumably reflected information processing speed and executive functions.