bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of left atrial size and function in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and in Fabry disease with left ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Saccheri María Cristina , Cianciulli Tomás Francisco , Challapa Licidio Wilde , Lax Jorge A. , Beck Martín A. , Morita Luis A. , Gagliardi Juan A. ,   AADELFA
Published: February 2018

Background

Fabry disease (FD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are two diseases with a different pathophysiology, both cause left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and myocardial fibrosis. Although remodeling and systolic dysfunction of the left atrium (LA) are associated with atrial fibrillation and stroke in HCM, changes in the size and function of the LA have not been well studied in FD with LVH.

Methods

The following groups were studied prospectively, and their respective findings compared: 19 patients with non‐obstructive HCM (Group I), 20 patients with a diagnosis of Fabry cardiomyopathy (Group II), and 20 normal subjects matched for sex and age (Group III). Left ventricular mass index was measured using Devereux’ formula, left atrial volume with Simpson’s biplane method and left atrial mechanical function, including strain and strain rate, was measured using the speckle tracking technique. Strain and strain rate of the reservoir were measured during the three phases: reservoir (SR S), passive conduit (SR E) and atrial contraction (SR A).

Results

Patients with HCM had a larger left atrial volume than patients with FD (48.16 ± 14.3 mL/m2 vs 38.9 ± 14.9 mL/m2 respectively, P < .001), but in both disorders there was a severe decrease in left atrial function: reservoir strain in the apical four‐chamber view: 17.47% in HCM vs 22.5% in FD, P = .24), strain rate in the apical chamber view: SR A: −0.80/seconds in HCM vs −1.04/seconds in FD (P = .88), SR S: 0.69/seconds in HCM vs 0.93 in FD (P = .12), SR E: −0.80 seconds in HCM vs −0.97/seconds in FD (P = .18).

Conclusions

In this echocardiographic study we used speckle tracking to assess left atrial mechanical function and showed that FD is associated to an atrial cardiomyopathy, affecting the three phasic functions of the LA. Although in patients with HCM left atrial volume is larger than in patients with FD, both disorders exhibit severe decrease in left atrial function. These findings should be considered, given the potentially serious complications that can occur with the two diseases.
Prosthetic mitral valve thrombosis, malfunction, and paroxysmal mitral regurgitation
Authors: Moorthy Nagaraja , Ananthakrishna Rajiv , Rao Dattatreya P. V. , Manjunath Satvic C. , Nanjappa Manjunath C.
Published: February 2018

Intermittent dysfunction of mechanical mitral valve prosthesis is an uncommon condition. It carries serious clinical implications if unrecognized. Here, we present a case of a 28‐year‐old female with a history of rheumatic multivalvular disease, for which she had undergone double valve replacement and tricuspid annuloplasty. Six months later, she presented with heart failure. Clinical examination revealed intermittent loss of closing clicks followed by a pansystolic murmur at the apex, suggestive of mitral prosthetic valve dysfunction. We highlight the echocardiographic findings of paroxysmal mitral valvular regurgitation secondary to prosthetic valve malfunction secondary to prosthetic valve thrombosis.
Sex matters: females in proestrus show greater diazepam anxiolysis and brain‐derived neurotrophin factor‐ and parvalbumin‐positive neurons than males
Authors: Ravenelle Rebecca , Berman Ariel K. , La Jeffrey , Mason Briana , Asumadu Evans , Yelleswarapu Chandra , Donaldson S. Tiffany
Published: February 2018

In humans and animal models, sex differences are reported for anxiety‐like behavior and response to anxiogenic stimuli. In the current work, we studied anxiety‐like behavior and response to the prototypical anti‐anxiety drug, diazepam. We used 6th generation outbred lines of adult Long Evans rats with high and low anxiety‐like behavior phenotypes to investigate the impact of proestrus on the baseline and diazepam‐induced behavior. At three doses of diazepam (0, 0.1, and 1.0 mg/kg, i.p.), we measured anxiogenic responses on the elevated plus maze of adult male and female rats. We assessed parvalbumin and brain‐derived neurotrophin protein levels in forebrain and limbic structures implicated in anxiety/stress using immunohistochemistry. At baseline, we saw significant differences between anxiety lines, with high anxiety lines displaying less time on the open arms of the elevated plus maze, and less open arm entries, regardless of sex. During proestrus, high anxiety females showed less anxiety‐like behavior at 0.1 mg/kg, while low anxiety females displayed less anxiety‐like behavior at 0.1 and 1.0 doses, relative to males. Brain‐derived neurotrophin protein was elevated in females in the medial prefrontal cortex and central amygdala, while parvalbumin‐immunoreactive cells were greater in males in the medial prefrontal cortex. Parvalbumin‐positive cells in high anxiety females were higher in CA2 and dentate gyrus relative to males from the same line. In sum, when tested in proestrus, females showed greater anxiolytic effects of diazepam relative to males, and this correlated with increases in neurotrophin and parvalbumin neuron density in corticolimbic structures.
Node self‐connections and metapopulation persistence: reply to Saura (2018)
Authors: Zamborain‐Mason Jessica , Russ Garry R. , Abesamis Rene A. , Bucol Abner A. , Connolly Sean R.
Published: February 2018

Saura () claims that studies using the Probability of Connectivity metric (PC) had already demonstrated the importance of including node self‐connections in network metrics. As originally defined and used, PC cannot test the importance of self‐connections. However, with key terms redefined, PC could be a useful tool in future work.
Electrocorticographic high‐gamma modulation with passive listening paradigm for pediatric extraoperative language mapping
Authors: Arya Ravindra , Wilson J. Adam , Fujiwara Hisako , Vannest Jennifer , Byars Anna W. , Rozhkov Leonid , Leach James L. , Greiner Hansel M. , Buroker Jason , Scholle Craig , Horn Paul S. , Crone Nathan E. , Rose Douglas F. , Mangano Francesco T. , Holland Katherine D.
Published: February 2018

Objective

This prospective study compared the topography of high‐gamma modulation (HGM) during a story‐listening task requiring negligible patient cooperation, with the conventional electrical stimulation mapping (ESM) using a picture‐naming task, for presurgical language localization in pediatric drug‐resistant epilepsy.

Methods

Patients undergoing extraoperative monitoring with subdural electrodes were included. Electrocorticographic signals were recorded during quiet baseline and a story‐listening task. The likelihood of 70‐ to 150‐Hz power modulation during the listening task relative to the baseline was estimated for each electrode and plotted on a cortical surface model. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were estimated compared to ESM, using a meta‐analytic framework.

Results

Nineteen patients (10 with left hemisphere electrodes) aged 4‐19 years were analyzed. HGM during story listening was observed in bilateral posterior superior temporal, angular, supramarginal, and inferior frontal gyri, along with anatomically defined language association areas. Compared to either cognitive or both cognitive and orofacial sensorimotor interference with naming during ESM, left hemisphere HGM showed high specificity (0.82‐0.84), good accuracy (0.66‐0.70), and DOR of 2.23 and 3.24, respectively. HGM was a better classifier of ESM language sites in the left temporoparietal cortex compared to the frontal lobe. Incorporating visual naming with the story‐listening task substantially improved the accuracy (0.80) and DOR (13.61) of HGM mapping, while the high specificity (0.85) was retained. In the right hemisphere, no ESM sites for aphasia were seen, and the results of HGM and ESM comparisons were not significant.

Significance

HGM associated with story listening is a specific determinant of left hemisphere ESM language sites. It can be used for presurgical language mapping in children who cannot cooperate with conventional language tasks requiring active engagement. Incorporation of additional language tasks, if feasible, can further improve the diagnostic accuracy of language localization with HGM.
Time‐lapse imaging points towards a non‐toxic, mainly immune‐driven mode of action of ingenol mebutate in the treatment of anogenital warts
Authors: Braun Stephan Alexander , Bünemann Erich , Baran Julia , Homey Bernhard , Gerber Peter Arne
Published: February 2018

Recently, it has been reported that ingenol mebutate (IM) is an effective treatment option for anogenital warts (AGW), inducing fast wart necrosis within 24 hours in vivo. With regard to its mode of action, IM is thought to act both as an inducer of direct cytotoxic effects and immunologic mechanisms. To distinguish whether the wart necrosis is mainly caused by cytotoxic effects, or whether immune mechanisms are leading, we used time‐lapse imaging to analyse IM‐treated warts ex vivo over 24 hours. Ex vivo IM‐treated warts, which have been detached from the immune system, did not show destructive necrosis, pointing towards a primarily immune‐driven mode of action of IM in the treatment of AGW.
Skin microbiota and human 3D skin models
Authors: Rademacher Franziska , Simanski Maren , Gläser Regine , Harder Jürgen
Published: February 2018

Although the role of the microbiota in skin homeostasis is still emerging, there is growing evidence that an intact microbiota supports the skin barrier. The increasing number of research efforts that are trying to shed more light on the human skin‐microbiota interaction requires the use of suitable experimental models. Three‐dimensional (3D) skin equivalents have been established as a valuable tool in dermatological research because they contain a fully differentiated epidermal barrier that reflects the morphological and molecular characteristics of normal human epidermis. In this review, we provide an overview of current 3D skin models and illustrate the potential of 3D skin models to study the human skin‐microbiota interplay.
Why haven't we solved instructed SLA? A sociocognitive account
Authors: Toth Paul D. , Moranski Kara
Published: February 2018

Translating current principles of language learning into effective classroom practice requires a nuanced understanding of the cognitive and social factors that shape how learners engage in instructional activity. In this paper, we identify four principles that represent a current theoretical consensus in the field, which we hope will guide practitioners as they assess their work: (1)All language use is purposeful, but not all language use is meaningful; (2)we learn by doing;(3)metalinguistic knowledge (still) matters;and (4)social contexts co‐construct development. We then critique a common assumption that teachers can seamlessly implement pedagogical recommendations from available professional development opportunities and materials. Although the methods and techniques proposed through professional development may provide examples for implementation, only a deep personal understanding of principles can inform how they are most effectively realized in any local context. It is therefore the responsibility of teacher education and professional development providers to better articulate justifications for their recommendations and explore flexible adaptations in their application. It is also incumbent on researchers and theorists to better understand the realities of practitioners so that the principles they espouse will translate more readily into meaningful recommendations for practice.
Variability of sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence according to stand age‐related processes in a managed loblolly pine forest
Authors: Colombo Roberto , Celesti Marco , Bianchi Remo , Campbell Petya K. E. , Cogliati Sergio , Cook Bruce D. , Corp Lawrence A. , Damm Alexander , Domec Jean‐Christophe , Guanter Luis , Julitta Tommaso , Middleton Elizabeth M. , Noormets Asko , Panigada Cinzia , Pinto Francisco , Rascher Uwe , Rossini Micol , Schickling Anke
Published: February 2018

Leaf fluorescence can be used to track plant development and stress, and is considered the most direct measurement of photosynthetic activity available from remote sensing techniques. Red and far‐red sun‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) maps were generated from high spatial resolution images collected with theHyPlantairborne spectrometer over even‐aged loblolly pine plantations in North Carolina (United States). Canopy fluorescence yield (i.e., the fluorescence flux normalized by the light absorbed) in the red and far‐red peaks was computed. This quantifies the fluorescence emission efficiencies that are more directly linked to canopy function compared toSIFradiances. Fluorescence fluxes and yields were investigated in relation to tree age to infer new insights on the potential of those measurements in better describing ecosystem processes. The results showed that red fluorescence yield varies with stand age. Young stands exhibited a nearly twofold higher red fluorescence yield than mature forest plantations, while the far‐red fluorescence yield remained constant. We interpreted this finding in a context of photosynthetic stomatal limitation in aging loblolly pine stands. Current and future satellite missions provide global datasets ofSIFat coarse spatial resolution, resulting in intrapixel mixture effects, which could be a confounding factor for fluorescence signal interpretation. To mitigate this effect, we propose a surrogate of the fluorescence yield, namely the Canopy Cover Fluorescence Index (CCFI) that accounts for the spatial variability in canopy structure by exploiting the vegetation fractional cover. It was found that spatial aggregation tended to mask the effective relationships, while theCCFIwas still able to maintain this link. This study is a first attempt in interpreting the fluorescence variability in aging forest stands and it may open new perspectives in understanding long‐term forest dynamics in response to future climatic conditions from remote sensing ofSIF.
Ethical agro‐food networks in global peripheries, Part II: Re‐placing commodity dependence
Authors: Bidwell Simon , Murray Warwick E , Overton John
Published: February 2018

This is the second of a two‐part series of review articles on ethical agro‐food networks (AFNs) in global peripheries, with a focus on Latin America. This article focuses on origin or locality‐based strategies, including geographical indications (GIs) as well as alternative approaches to valorising place–product connections. It compares the impacts of origin‐based networks to fair trade and organics and identifies possibilities for alternative or hybrid conceptualisations of these networks. It concludes by suggesting some directions for future research on ethical AFNs in the Global South. These include more study of local agro‐food networks in the South, more explicit attention to the role of the State, and analysis of the discursive as well as material construction of ethical AFNs in global peripheries.
The contribution of a negative colorectal screening test result to symptom appraisal and help‐seeking behaviour among patients subsequently diagnosed with an interval colorectal cancer
Authors: Barnett Karen N , Weller David , Smith Steve , Steele Robert JC , Vedsted Peter , Orbell Sheina , Moss Sue M , Melia Jane W , Patnick Julietta , Campbell Christine
Published: February 2018

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programmes using a guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBt) reduce CRC mortality. Interval cancers are diagnosed between screening rounds: reassurance from a negative gFOBt has the potential to influence the pathway to diagnosis of an interval colorectal cancer.

Methods

Twenty‐six semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews were carried out in Scotland and England, with individuals diagnosed with an interval colorectal cancer following a negative gFOBt result.

Results

Participants reported they were reassured by a negative gFOBt, interpreting their result as an “all clear”. Therefore, most did not suspect cancer as a possible cause of symptoms and many did not recall their screening result during symptom appraisal. Among those who did consider cancer, and did think about their screening test result, reassurance from a negative gFOBt led some to “downplay” the seriousness of their symptoms with some interviewees explicitly stating that their negative test result contributed to a delayed decision to seek help.

Conclusion

Screening participants need to be informed of the limitations of screening and the ongoing risk of developing colorectal cancer even when in receipt of a negative result: the importance of minimizing delay in seeking medical advice for colorectal symptoms should be emphasized.
Effect of bristle stiffness of manual toothbrushes on normal and demineralized human enamel—An in vitro profilometric study
Authors: AlShehab AH , AlHazoom AA , Alowa MH , AlAli HA , Abdulmohsen AA , Farooq I
Published: February 2018

Objective

To compare the brushing abrasion carried out by manual toothbrushes with different bristle types (hard and soft) on normal and demineralized human enamel.

Materials and Methods

Thirty enamel blocks (N = 30) were prepared and were randomly divided into three main groups: A, teeth kept in artificial saliva with no brushing (control, n = 2); B, teeth brushed with toothbrushes with hard bristles (n = 14); and C, teeth brushed with toothbrushes with soft bristles (n = 14). Seven teeth belonging to groups B and C were brushed normally, and the remaining seven were demineralized before brushing experiments with 6 wt.% citric acid (pH = 2.2) for 5 minutes. The brushing experiments were carried out twice a day for 2 mins for 7 days inside a toothbrush simulation machine. The changes in the surface of enamel (prebrushing and post‐brushing) were evaluated using non‐contact profilometry. The results were analysed statistically using Kruskal‐Wallis test and the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results

For both normal and demineralized enamel, toothbrushes with soft bristles caused more abrasion. The results revealed significant differences (P = .055) in the surface roughness values between the four groups prebrushing. Within each group, the prebrushing and post‐brushing surface roughness value differences were all statistically significant (P < .05).

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that soft bristles caused more abrasion as compared with the hard bristles. These results could have an impact on the toothbrush recommendations for patients.
Effect of high‐pressure processing on immunoreactivity, microbial and physicochemical properties of hazelnut milk
Authors: Tsai Min‐Ju , Cheng Ming‐Ching , Chen Bang‐Yuan , Wang Chung‐Yi
Published: February 2018

This study investigated the effects of high‐pressure processing (HPP) and thermal processing (TP) on the overall quality attributes of hazelnut milk. HPP achieved the same microbial safety as TP, and the pH, °Brix and sugar contents were maintained at the levels of fresh hazelnut milk. Although HPP caused colour changes, the ∆E was smaller than that of the TP sample. Increasing pressure significantly decreased the immunoreactivity of the hazelnut milk by 70%, while simultaneously reducing the levels of essential and non‐essential amino acids and chemical score (CS) and the essential amino acid index (EAAI) values. However, neither HPP nor TP significantly affected the fatty acid composition of hazelnut milk. HPP retained higher total phenolic and flavonoid levels of the hazelnut milk, with a better antioxidant capacity than TP samples. Thus, the HPP maintained microbial safety during cold storage, and physicochemical properties of the treated hazelnut milk were not significantly different from those of the fresh hazelnut milk.
Identification and functional analysis of a novel chorion protein essential for egg maturation in the brown planthopper
Authors: Lou Y.‐H. , Pan P.‐L. , Ye Y.‐X. , Cheng C. , Xu H.‐J. , Zhang C.‐X.
Published: February 2018

In insect eggs, the chorion has the essential function of protecting the embryo from external agents during development while allowing gas exchange for respiration. In this study, we found a novel gene, Nilaparvata lugens chorion protein (NlChP), that is involved in chorion formation in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. NlChP was highly expressed in the follicular cells of female adult brown planthoppers. Knockdown of NlChP resulted in oocyte malformation and the inability to perform oviposition, and electron microscopy showed that the malformed oocytes had thin and rough endochorion layers compared to the control group. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the eggshell components revealed four unique peptides that were matched to NlChP. Our results demonstrate that NlChP is a novel chorion protein essential for egg maturation in N. lugens, a hemipteran insect with telotrophic meroistic ovaries. NlChP may be a potential target in RNA interference‐based insect pest management.
Lysophosphatidylserine suppression of T‐cell activation via GPR174 requires Gαs proteins
Authors: Barnes Michael J , Cyster Jason G
Published: February 2018

G protein‐coupled receptors regulate diverse aspects of T‐cell activity and effector function. Recently, we showed that GPR174 mediates the suppression of T‐cell proliferation in vitro induced by the polar lipid lysophosphatidylserine (LysoPS). Here, we investigated the in vivo activity of this pathway and characterized the mechanisms involved. Using in vivo models of T‐cell proliferation induced by sublethal irradiation or regulatory T‐cell depletion, we show that GPR174 expression can constrain T‐cell proliferation. In vitro experiments established that Gαs G proteins are needed for LysoPS/GPR174‐mediated suppression of T‐cell proliferation. Mechanistically, LysoPS acts via GPR174 and Gαs to suppress IL‐2 production by activated T cells and limit upregulation of the activation markers CD25 and CD69. Together, our findings identify GPR174 as an abundantly expressed Gαs‐dependent receptor that can negatively regulate naive T‐cell activation.

See also: News and Commentary by Robert & Mackay.
The role of salt for immune cell function and disease
Authors: Willebrand Ralf , Kleinewietfeld Markus
Published: February 2018

The immune system evolved to protect organisms from invading pathogens. A network of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cell types equipped with special effector molecules guarantees efficient elimination of intruders like viruses and bacteria. However, imbalances can lead to an excessive response of effector cells incurring autoimmune or allergic diseases. An interplay of genetic and environmental factors contributes to autoimmune diseases and recent studies provided evidence for an impact of dietary habits on the immune status and related disorders. Western societies underwent a change in lifestyle associated with changes in food consumption. Salt (sodium chloride) is one component prevalent in processed food frequently consumed in western countries. Here we summarize recent advances in understanding the mechanisms behind the effects of sodium chloride on immune cells like regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T helper (TH) 17 cells and its implication as a risk factor for several diseases.
Sponsor's cocreation and psychological ownership in reward‐based crowdfunding
Authors: Zheng Haichao , Xu Bo , Zhang Min , Wang Tao
Published: February 2018

Crowdfunding is a new financing channel for small and medium‐sized enterprises and individual entrepreneurs to raise funds for innovation projects online. In reward‐based crowdfunding, project sponsors invest money and receive rewards as a return. They may also participate in product development and project implementation as value cocreators. This paper investigates how sponsors' cocreation behaviours lead to their generation of psychological ownership in the crowdfunding projects. The research model was developed, and data were collected from sponsors on Zhongchou (www.zhongchou.com), a well‐known crowdfunding platform in China. The results indicated that psychological ownership is an important mental state for sponsors in crowdfunding, which significantly affects their commitment to projects. We also identified the important routes to sponsor psychological ownership in crowdfunding: perceived control and intimate knowing, through which sponsors' cocreation significantly influences the emergence of psychological ownership. The effects of cocreation process are moderated by 2 important factors: entrepreneur activeness, and sponsor's social connection, in the crowdfunding projects. This paper contributes to crowdfunding research and has practical implications for crowdfunding projects and platforms.
High‐Frequency Trading and the New Stock Market: Sense And Nonsense
Authors: Fox Merritt B. , Glosten Lawrence R. , Rauterberg Gabriel V.
Published: February 2018

The stock market has been transformed during the last 25 years. Human suppliers of liquidity like the NASDAQ dealers and NYSE specialists have been replaced by algorithmic market making; stocks that once traded on a single venue now trade across twelve exchanges and a multitude of alternative trading systems. New venues like dark pools, and new participants like high‐frequency traders, have emerged to take on prominent roles. This new market has had more than its share of controversy and regulatory scrutiny, particularly in the wake of Michael Lewis’s bestseller Flash Boys.

In this article, the authors analyze five of the most controversial new market practices, including various high‐frequency trading strategies and dark pool activities. They set out a simple conceptual framework based on adverse selection and agency problems, and apply that framework to assess the welfare effects of each of the five practices. While much that is criticized is indeed objectionable, other controversial practices are much more complex than popularly imagined and may in fact be socially desirable. They conclude by evaluating a range of potential reforms to equity market structure.
Improving the usefulness of a tool for appraising the quality of qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies, the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT)
Authors: Hong Quan Nha , Gonzalez‐Reyes Araceli , Pluye Pierre
Published: February 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Systematic reviews combining qualitative, quantitative, and/or mixed methods studies are increasingly popular because of their potential for addressing complex interventions and phenomena, specifically for assessing and improving clinical practice. A major challenge encountered with this type of review is the appraisal of the quality of individual studies given the heterogeneity of the study designs. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was developed to help overcome this challenge. The aim of this study was to explore the usefulness of the MMAT by seeking the views and experiences of researchers who have used it.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using semistructured interviews with MMAT users. A purposeful sample was drawn from the researchers who had previously contacted the developer of the MMAT, and those who have published a systematic review for which they had used the MMAT. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by 2 coders using thematic analysis.

Results

Twenty participants from 8 countries were interviewed. Thirteen themes were identified and grouped into the 2 dimensions of usefulness, ie, utility and usability. The themes related to utility concerned the coverage, completeness, flexibility, and other utilities of the tool. Those regarding usability were related to the learnability, efficiency, satisfaction, and errors that could be made due to difficulties understanding or selecting the items to appraise.

Conclusions

On the basis of the results of this study, we make several recommendations for improving the MMAT. This will contribute to greater usefulness of the MMAT.
On the issue of choosing psychodiagnostic methods of measuring and scoring of cognitive deficit in case of schizophrenia
Authors: Isaeva Elena Rudolfovna , Lebedeva Gulfya Gadilevna , Simon Yulia Alexandrovna
Published: February 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The article is dedicated to the search of more accurate psychodiagnostic methods and methods of evaluation that can help to define the degree of manifestation of cognitive deficiency among patients suffering from various schizophrenic disorders. The notions of cognitive deficiency and cognitive profile are analysed; we understand them as the correlation between intact and damaged components of cognitive processes and their diagrammatic representation. The authors prove that it is essential to provide a detailed scale of cognitive deficiencies detectable in case of schizophrenic disorders and to design universal algorithms that could translate the results of traditional content analysis of cognitive disorders into quantitative indicators. The article is based on the authors' experiments. We examined 128 patients, among whom 76 were suffering from paranoid schizophrenia (F20 according to ICD) and 52 were suffering from schizotypal disorder (F21 according to ICD).

Method

In evaluation of cognitive deficiency, we used both traditional methods devised in Russia and foreign tests that are seldom used by medical psychologists in their daily practice. We have analysed the difference in doing the cognitive tests between the groups of patients with different forms of schizophrenia and also suffering from it for different periods (up to 5 y and more than 5 y).

Results

On the basis of the quantitative indicators, a cognitive profile of each particular illness was compiled. As a result, we have defined different varieties of cognitive deficiency depending on the symptoms and dynamics of the disease.

Conclusion

The authors have provided a detailed description of the structure and dynamics of the cognitive deficiency in case of different forms of schizophrenia and compiled cognitive profiles based on those data.
Clinical judgement in precision medicine
Authors: Tonelli Mark R.
Published: February 2018

Precision medicine, which aims to individualize care based upon the unique combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle features in particular patients, will require an evolution in clinical decision making. Practitioners of precision medicine will need to utilize an expanded body of medical knowledge derived from a wide variety of sources. Clinical judgement in the case‐based reasoning necessary for individualizing care will involve understanding and utilizing methodological approaches not commonly invoked in medicine, including mechanistic and qualitative research results. Instead of searching for an answer in the published literature, precision medicine demands clinical judgement that finds the reasons for clinical decisions within, not without, the patient.
Cookie‐cutter shark Isistius spp. predation upon different tuna species from the south‐western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Niella Y. V. , Duarte L. A. G. , Bandeira V. R. , Crespo O. , Beare D. , Hazin F. H. V.
Published: February 2018

The predation of cookie‐cutter sharks Isistius spp. upon the early life stages of yellowfin tuna Thunnus albacares, skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis and little tunny Euthynnus alletteratus are described. New evidence suggesting a connection between commercial fishing and predation by Isistius sp. is presented, with these sharks biting tunas hooked in surface waters during daylight. The healing patterns of the wounds made by the sharks are described in detail and, although such damage is known to negatively influence market price elsewhere, it is not the case on the south‐east Brazilian coast.
Cost‐effectiveness of a chronic disease management model for cirrhosis: Analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wigg Alan J , Chin Jong K , Muller Kate R , Ramachandran Jeyamani , Woodman Richard J , Kaambwa Billingsley
Published: February 2018

Background and Aims

In this follow‐up study to a randomized controlled trial of a chronic disease management (CDM) model in cirrhosis, our aim was to assess the relative cost‐effectiveness of this model compared with usual care during the 12‐month study period, using incremental costs per death avoided as the primary outcome.

Methods

Mean differences in hospitalization costs, deaths avoided, and change in Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) total scores were presented with 95% non‐parametric bootstrapped confidence intervals. Results were also presented using a cost‐effectiveness plane (CEP) and cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve.

Results

The CDM intervention was more expensive, by 18 521 AUD per participant, but more effective (% of deaths at 12 months: 10% vs 15% and 0.67 units increase per patient in CLDQ total scores). The resultant incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were 370 425 AUD per death avoided (95% confidence interval: −14 564 AUD to 2 059 373 AUD) and 27 547 AUD per unit improvement in the CLDQ total score (95% CI: 7455 AUD to 143 874 AUD). The CEPs demonstrated some uncertainty around cost‐effectiveness. The cost‐effectiveness acceptability curves demonstrated that at willingness to pay values of 400 000 AUD per additional death avoided and 40 000 AUD per unit improvement in the CLDQ, there was at least a 70% probability of CDM being more cost‐effective than usual care. At 24 months, CDM was much more effective (12% less deaths but now also cheaper by 985 AUD per patient).

Conclusions

The analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial suggests that the CDM intervention used is likely to be cost‐effective, relative to usual care, due to fewer patient deaths.
Developing a Core Outcome Set for Trials to Improve Medication Use: Guidelines or Guidance?
Authors: Marcum Zachary A. , Steinman Michael A.
Published: February 2018

This editorial comments on the article by Rankin et al.
Recent Progress in Assessment of Resource Efficiency and Environmental Impacts Embodied in Trade: An Introduction to this Special Issue
Authors: Tukker Arnold , Giljum Stefan , Wood Richard
Published: February 2018

This paper serves as an introduction to this special issue on the use of multiregional input‐output modeling in assessments of natural resource use and resource use efficiency. Due to globalization, growth in trade has outpaced growth in global gross domestic product (GDP). As a consequence, impacts of consumption of a country increasingly take place abroad. Various methods have been developed to perform so‐called footprint analyses. We argue that global multiregional input‐output (GMRIO) analysis has the largest potential to provide a consistent accounting framework to calculate a variety of different footprint indicators. The state of the art in GMRIO has, however, various shortcomings, such as limited sector and regional detail and incomplete extensions. The work presented in this special issue addresses a number of such problems and how to possibly overcome them, focusing on the construction of a new GMRIO database (EXIOBASE V3). This database includes long time series in both current and constant prices, a high level of product and sector detail, a physical representation of the world economy, and allows analyzing which footprints out of the many possible indicators provide most information for policy making. Various options for empirical analyses are presented in this special issue. Finally, we analyze how GMRIOs can be further standardized and gradually moved from the scientific to the official statistical domain.
United States Model Midwifery Legislation and Regulation: Development of a Consensus Document
Authors: Kennedy Holly Powell , Myers‐Ciecko Jo Anne , Carr Katherine Camacho , Breedlove Ginger , Bailey Tanya , Farrell Marinah V. , Lawlor Mary , Darragh Ida
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Midwifery is defined and regulated across all 50 United States. However, states’ regulations vary markedly, creating confusion for policy makers and consumers, and can limit services to women. In 2011, the International Confederation of Midwives released Global Standards for Midwifery Education, Regulation, and Association, providing guidance for international midwifery for the first time. US organizations representing midwifery education, regulation, and professional associations (US MERA) agreed to work together on common goals.

Methods

The purpose of this modified Delphi study, conducted by US MERA, was to develop a consensus document on principles of model US midwifery legislation and regulation. Expert panelists (N = 51) across maternal and child health care professions and consumer groups participated over several iterative rounds.

Results

The final document establishes guiding principles for US midwifery regulation, including regulatory authority, education, qualifications, regulation, registration and licensure, standards of practice and conduct, complaints, and third‐party payment for services.

Discussion

As more US states recognize and license midwives of all credentials and in every practice setting, we can envision a time when equity, informed choice, safety, and seamless access to quality midwifery care will be the right of every birthing family.
Vitamin D levels in acne vulgaris patients treated with oral isotretinoin
Authors: El‐Hamd Mohammed Abu , El Taieb Moustafa A , Ibrahim Hassan M , Aly Sanaa S
Published: February 2018

Background/Objectives

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disease. Vitamin D deficiency plays a role in many inflammatory skin diseases. It may play a role in pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. This study aimed to assess serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D in patients with acne vulgaris before and after treatment with isotretinoin and its relation with acne vulgaris severity.

Methods

Ninety patients with acne vulgaris and 60 age‐sex matched healthy subject as controls have been recruited in this study. Patients were treated with 0.75 mg/kg/d isotretinoin for 3 months. Serum level of 25 hydroxy vitamin D has been measured at baseline and after treatment.

Results

Serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D were significantly higher in patients with acne vulgaris than healthy controls (P = .001). There was a significant inverse relation between level of 25 hydroxy vitamin D and severity of acne vulgaris before treatment (P = .001). Serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D were significantly increased after isotretinoin treatment in patients with acne vulgaris (P = .001).

Conclusion

This study concluded that vitamin D may play a potential role in pathogenesis of acne vulgaris or acne vulgaris may have a negative effect on vitamin D synthesis. Further studies are needed to confirm these potential relations.
Paths to Democracy and Authoritarianism in Europe before World War One
Authors: Bilinski Adam
Published: February 2018

This article offers a novel explanation of why some European democracies survived while others collapsed in pre‐WWII Europe, describing historical paths which ended with establishment of either self‐sustainable democracies or non‐democratic regimes in the interwar period. The historical path to self‐sustaining democracy began with the emergence, in the nineteenth century, of constitutional monarchies with executive power responsible to the monarch and freely elected legislatures. Such polities, without exception, became self‐sustaining democracies unless the transition was achieved through regime discontinuity (as in Germany in 1918). An intermediate stage in this historical process consisted of development, in some countries, of competitive oligarchy as a transitional stage between the constitutional monarchy and democracy. If a country's political history did not follow the above‐mentioned path, its initial democracy was susceptible to breakdown. This pertained to countries which transitioned directly to democracy or competitive oligarchy from absolute monarchy or other regimes lacking open‐outcome elections.
Evaluation of a Realistic Cleansing Protocol for Preventing Discoloration of Denture Resins
Authors: Zoidis Panagiotis , Polychronakis Nikolaos , Lagouvardos Panagiotis , Polyzois Gregory , Ngo Hien Chi
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of a realistic staining/cleansing protocol for long‐term prevention of discoloration of denture base resins.

Materials and Methods

Sixty discs (20 × 2.5 mm) of auto‐ and heat‐polymerizing denture acrylic resins were fabricated following manufacturer's instructions, polished on one side and stored in water (37°C) for 24 hours before they were assigned randomly into 6 groups (3 for each material, n = 10) to receive 220 cycles of three immersion protocols. Group A was immersed in the following baths: (1) filtered coffee at 45°C for 2 minutes, (2) tap water at 24°C for 20 seconds, (3) as bath 1, (4) as bath 2, (5) Corega Extradent cleansing solution at 45°C for 3 minutes, and (6) water at 24°C for 20 seconds. Group B was immersed in the four first baths of group A (without cleansing action) and group C in bath 1 for the cumulative action of 20 cycles (80 minutes in 45°C coffee) and bath 2 for 40 seconds. A noncontact optical interferometric profilometer was used for qualitative evaluation of the specimens and a contact colorimeter to estimate color change values (ΔΕ*ab) at baseline and every 20 cycles in the baths for a total of 220 cycles. Data were statistically analyzed using a 2‐way‐repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferoni multiple comparisons and trend analysis at α = 0.05 level of significance.

Results

Data indicated changes in color from 1.7 to 14.2 ΔΕ*ab units. The highest values were related to the number of cycles and group B immersion protocol. Significant differences were found among immersion protocols (p < 0.001) and immersion cycles (p < 0.001) with a significant interaction between protocols and cycles (p < 0.001) but not between denture resins (p = 0.991).

Conclusion

The evaluated protocol A was found effective in preventing color changes in both denture resins even after a long period of action. Protocol C had a much lower staining effect on both resins than protocol B and behaved similarly to protocol A until 140 to 160 cycles. Therefore, it is probably not appropriate for use in short‐term color stability experiments.
Distribution and density of melatonin receptors in human main pancreatic islet cell types
Authors: Zibolka Juliane , Bazwinsky‐Wutschke Ivonne , Mühlbauer Eckhard , Peschke Elmar
Published: February 2018

Recent investigations of our group established that melatonin modulates hormone secretion of pancreatic islets via melatonin receptor types MT1 and MT2. Expression of MT1 and MT2 has been shown in mouse, rat, and human pancreatic islets as well as in the β‐, α‐, and δ‐cell lines INS‐1, αTC1.9, and QGP‐1. In view of these earlier investigations, this study was performed to analyze in detail the distribution and density of melatonin receptors on the main islet cell types in human pancreatic tissue obtained from nondiabetic and type 2 diabetic patients. Immunohistochemical analysis established the presence of MT1 and MT2 in β‐, α‐, and δ‐cells, but notably, with differences in receptor density. In general, the lowest MT1 and MT2 receptor density was measured in α‐cells compared to the 2 other cell types. In type 2 diabetic islets, MT1 and MT2 receptor density was increased in δ‐cells compared to normoglycemic controls. In human islets in batch culture of a nondiabetic donor, an increase of somatostatin secretion was observed under melatonin treatment while in islets of a type 2 diabetic donor, an inhibitory influence could be observed, especially in the presence of 5.5 mmol/L glucose. These data suggest the following: i) cell‐type‐specific density of MT1 and MT2 receptors in human pancreatic islets, which should be considered in context of the hormone secretion of islets, ii) the influence of diabetes on density of MT1 and MT2 as well as iii) the differential impact of melatonin on somatostatin secretion of nondiabetic and type 2 diabetic islets.
Rapid evaluation of the texture properties of melon (Cucumis melo L. Var. reticulata cv. Green net) using near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Khurnpoon Lampan , Sirisomboon Panmanas
Published: February 2018

The near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy as the rapid nondestructive method was aimed to be applied for determination of the texture properties of melon intact fruit and pulp including initial firmness, rupture force, average firmness, rupture distance, toughness, average penetrating force and penetrating energy. The data from the reference method of texture analyzer were correlated with the NIR spectral data. The result showed that, only the two properties including rupture force and penetrating force in pulp could be predicted by NIR spectroscopy technique. The determination coefficient of validation (r2) for prediction of rupture force and penetrating force in the pulp of melon using intact fruit spectra were 0.850 and 0.845, respectively. The r2, for prediction of rupture force and penetrating force in the pulp of melon using pulp spectra were 0.813 and 0.778, respectively. This indicated that the NIR spectroscopy protocol developed here was useful for research works such as breeding and postharvest research, the melon processing factory and also the import and export of melon.

Practical applications

The near infrared spectroscopy protocol developed for determination of rupture force and penetrating force in pulp using intact fruit spectra as a nondestructive method will be useful for research works such as breeding and postharvest research, the melon processing factory and also the import and export of melon. There are also the protocol developed using pulp spectra can be used for texture determination of fresh‐cut melon.
Deafness and vestibular dysfunction in a Doberman Pinscher puppy associated with a mutation in the PTPRQ gene
Authors: Guevar Julien , Olby Natasha J. , Meurs Kathryn M. , Yost Oriana , Friedenberg Steven G.
Published: February 2018

Background

A congenital syndrome of hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction affects Doberman Pinschers. Its inheritance pattern is suspected to be autosomal recessive and it potentially represents a spontaneous animal model of an autosomal recessive syndromic hearing loss.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objectives of this study were to use whole genome sequencing (WGS) to identify deleterious genetic variants in candidate genes associated with the syndrome and to study the prevalence of candidate variants among a population of unaffected Doberman Pinschers.

Animals

One affected Doberman Pinscher and 202 unaffected Doberman Pinschers.

Methods

WGS of the affected dog with filtering of variants against a database of 154 unaffected dogs of diverse breeds was performed. Confirmation of candidate variants was achieved by Sanger sequencing followed by genotyping of the control population of unaffected Doberman Pinschers.

Results

WGS and variant filtering identified an alteration in a gene associated with both deafness and vestibular disease in humans: protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type Q (PTPRQ). There was a homozygous A insertion at CFA15: 22 989 894, causing a frameshift mutation in exon 39 of the gene. This insertion is predicted to cause a protein truncation with a premature stop codon occurring after position 2054 of the protein sequence that causes 279 C‐terminal amino acids to be eliminated. Prevalence of the variant was 1.5% in a cohort of 202 unaffected Doberman Pinschers; all unaffected Doberman Pinschers were heterozygous or heterozygous for the reference allele.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

We report the identification of a genetic alteration on the PTPRQ gene that is associated with congenital hearing and vestibular disorder in a young Doberman Pinscher dog.