bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Prediction for Heterogeneous Populations with Application to Hospital Admission Prediction
Authors: Huling Jared D. , Yu Menggang , Liang Muxuan , Smith Maureen
Published: October 2017

This article is motivated by the increasing need to model risk for large hospital and health care systems that provide services to diverse and complex patients. Often, heterogeneity across a population is determined by a set of factors such as chronic conditions. When these stratifying factors result in overlapping subpopulations, it is likely that the covariate effects for the overlapping groups have some similarity. We exploit this similarity by imposing structural constraints on the importance of variables in predicting outcomes such as hospital admission. Our basic assumption is that if a variable is important for a subpopulation with one of the chronic conditions, then it should be important for the subpopulation with both conditions. However, a variable can be important for the subpopulation with two particular chronic conditions but not for the subpopulations of people with just one of those two conditions. This assumption and its generalization to more conditions are reasonable and aid greatly in borrowing strength across the subpopulations. We prove an oracle property for our estimation method and show that even when the structural assumptions are misspecified, our method will still include all of the truly nonzero variables in large samples. We demonstrate impressive performance of our method in extensive numerical studies and on an application in hospital admission prediction and validation for the Medicare population of a large health care provider.
Estimation of cis-eQTL Effect Sizes Using a Log of Linear Model
Authors: Palowitch John , Shabalin Andrey , Zhou Yi-Hui , Nobel Andrew B. , Wright Fred A.
Published: October 2017

The study of expression Quantitative Trait Loci (eQTL) is an important problem in genomics and biomedicine. While detection (testing) of eQTL associations has been widely studied, less work has been devoted to the estimation of eQTL effect size. To reduce false positives, detection methods frequently rely on linear modeling of rank-based normalized or log-transformed gene expression data. Unfortunately, these approaches do not correspond to the simplest model of eQTL action, and thus yield estimates of eQTL association that can be uninterpretable and inaccurate. In this article, we propose a new, log-of-linear model for eQTL action, termed ACME, that captures allelic contributions to cis-acting eQTLs in an additive fashion, yielding effect size estimates that correspond to a biologically coherent model of cis-eQTLs. We describe a non-linear least-squares algorithm to fit the model by maximum likelihood, and obtain corresponding p-values. We perform careful investigation of the model using a combination of simulated data and data from the Genotype Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. Our results reveal little evidence for dominance effects, a parsimonious result that accords with a simple biological model for allele-specific expression and supports use of the ACME model. We show that Type-I error is well-controlled under our approach in a realistic setting, so that rank-based normalizations are unnecessary. Furthermore, we show that such normalizations can be detrimental to power and estimation accuracy under the proposed model. We then show, through effect size analyses of whole-genome cis-eQTLs in the GTEx data, that using standard normalizations instead of ACME noticeably affects the ranking and sign of estimates.
Histopathological comparison of healing after maxillary sinus augmentation using xenograft mixed with autogenous bone versus allograft mixed with autogenous bone
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , de Buitrago Juan G. , Padial‐Molina Miguel , Fernández‐Barbero Juan Emilio , Ata‐Ali Javier , O′Valle Francisco
Published: October 2017

Objective

To compare the clinical and histologic outcomes of two different grafting materials (allograft and xenograft) when combined with autogenous bone and covered with a collagen membrane for sinus augmentation.

Material and Methods

A parallel case series of fourteen patients in need of a unilateral sinus augmentation was evaluated in this study. Seven patients received a graft composed by autologous cortical bone (ACB) and anorganic bovine bone in a ratio of 1:1; the other seven patients received ACB mixed with an allograft in the same ratio. Bone biopsies were obtained 6 months after sinus augmentation at the time of implant placement. Comparative histomorphometrical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted and statistically analyzed.

Results

After 12 months of functional loading, all implants in both groups were clinical and radiographically successful. Histomorphometrically, although the initial bone formation was not significantly different between groups (new mineralized tissue: 41.03(12.87)% vs. 34.50(13.18)%, p = .620; allograft vs. xenograft groups), the graft resorbed faster in the allograft group (remnant graft particles: 9.83[7.77]% vs. 21.71[17.88]%; p = .026; allograft vs. xenograft groups). Non‐mineralized tissue did not statistically differ either (49.00[14.32]% vs. 43.79[19.90]%; p = .710; allograft vs. xenograft groups). The histologic analyses revealed higher cellular content, four times more osteoid lines, and higher vascularization in the xenograft group. Musashi‐1 (mesenchymal stromal cell marker) was also more intensively expressed in the xenograft group (p = .019).

Conclusions

Both composite grafts generate adequate substratum to receive dental implants after healing. Compared with the xenograft composite, allograft composite shows faster turnover and a quicker decrease in biological action after 6 months.
Curiosity‐based learning in infants: a neurocomputational approach
Authors: Twomey Katherine E. , Westermann Gert
Published: October 2017

Infants are curious learners who drive their own cognitive development by imposing structure on their learning environment as they explore. Understanding the mechanisms by which infants structure their own learning is therefore critical to our understanding of development. Here we propose an explicit mechanism for intrinsically motivated information selection that maximizes learning. We first present a neurocomputational model of infant visual category learning, capturing existing empirical data on the role of environmental complexity on learning. Next we “set the model free”, allowing it to select its own stimuli based on a formalization of curiosity and three alternative selection mechanisms. We demonstrate that maximal learning emerges when the model is able to maximize stimulus novelty relative to its internal states, depending on the interaction across learning between the structure of the environment and the plasticity in the learner itself. We discuss the implications of this new curiosity mechanism for both existing computational models of reinforcement learning and for our understanding of this fundamental mechanism in early development.
Semi‐physiological model of postprandial triglyceride response in lean, obese and very obese individuals after a high‐fat meal
Authors: Leohr Jennifer , Heathman Michael , Kjellsson Maria C.
Published: October 2017

Aims

To quantify the postprandial triglyceride (TG) response of chylomicrons and very‐low‐density lipoprotein‐V6 (VLDL‐V6) after a high‐fat meal in lean, obese and very obese healthy individuals, using a mechanistic population lipokinetic modelling approach.

Methods

Healthy individuals from three body mass index population categories: lean (18.5‐24.9 kg/m2), obese (30‐33 kg/m2), and very obese (34‐40 kg/m2) were enrolled in a clinical study to assess the TG response after a high‐fat meal, containing 60% fat. Non‐linear mixed‐effect modelling was used to analyse the TG concentrations of chylomicrons and large VLDL‐V6 particles.

Results

The TGs in chylomicrons and VLDL‐V6 particles had a prominent postprandial peak and represented the majority of the postprandial response; only the VLDL‐V6 showed a difference across the populations. A turn‐over model successfully described the TG concentration–time profiles of both chylomicrons and large VLDL‐V6 particles after the high‐fat meal. This model consisted of four compartments: two transit compartments for the lag between meal consumption and appearance of TGs in the blood, and one compartment each for the chylomicrons and large VLDL‐V6 particles. The rate constants for the production of chylomicrons and elimination of large VLDL‐V6 particles, along with the conversion rate of chylomicrons to large VLDL‐V6 particles were well defined.

Conclusions

This is the first lipokinetic model to describe the absorption of TGs from dietary fats into the blood stream and compares the dynamics of TGs in chylomicrons and large VLDL‐V6 particles among lean, obese and very obese people. Such a model can be used to identify where pharmacological therapies act, thereby improving the determination of efficacy, and identifying complementary mechanisms for combinational drug therapies.
Contribution of neurocognition to 18‐month employment outcomes in first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Karambelas George J. , Cotton Sue M. , Farhall John , Killackey Eóin , Allott Kelly A.
Published: October 2017

Aim

To examine whether baseline neurocognition predicts vocational outcomes over 18 months in patients with first‐episode psychosis enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of Individual Placement and Support or treatment as usual.

Methods

One‐hundred and thirty‐four first‐episode psychosis participants completed an extensive neurocognitive battery. Principal axis factor analysis using PROMAX rotation was used to determine the underlying structure of the battery. Setwise (hierarchical) multiple linear and logistic regressions were used to examine predictors of (1) total hours employed over 18 months and (2) employment status, respectively. Neurocognition factors were entered in the models after accounting for age, gender, premorbid IQ, negative symptoms, treatment group allocation and employment status at baseline.

Results

Five neurocognitive factors were extracted: (1) processing speed, (2) verbal learning and memory, (3) knowledge and reasoning, (4) attention and working memory and (5) visual organization and memory. Employment status over 18 months was not significantly predicted by any of the predictors in the final model. Total hours employed over 18 months were significantly predicted by gender (P = .027), negative symptoms (P = .032) and verbal learning and memory (P = .040). Every step of the regression model was a significant predictor of total hours worked overall (final model: P = .013).

Conclusion

Verbal learning and memory, negative symptoms and gender were implicated in duration of employment in first‐episode psychosis. The other neurocognitive domains did not significantly contribute to the prediction of vocational outcomes over 18 months. Interventions targeting verbal memory may improve vocational outcomes in early psychosis.
Discovery of wood nesting by a subterranean halictine bee, Lasioglossum (Evylaeus) vulsum (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)
Authors: Miyanaga Ryoichi , Maeta Yasuo , Ito Fuminori , Devkota Adhikari Radha
Published: October 2017

An unusual nesting substrate of a subterranean halictine bee, Lasioglossum (Evylaeus) vulsum (Vachal), was found at Mt Ishizuchi‐san, Ehime, Japan. Two nests were obtained from a decaying log in a display sign for a local restaurant. Brood cells, forming a cell cluster, were constructed in a wood hollow with rotted wood fibers pressed together. Nests in the decaying log show the same structural elements as those made in soil. This is the first report of wood nesting by subterranean halictine bees belonging to the subgenus Evylaeus.
Structure of the food web including the endangered lycaenid butterfly Shijimiaeoides divinus asonis (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: Murata Kouhei , Tsuchiya Morimasa
Published: October 2017

The structure of the food web including the endangered lycaenid butterfly Shijimiaeoides divinus asonis (Matsumura) was analyzed to identify species contributing most to maintaining the equilibrium of the food web. Twenty‐seven species belonging to 17 families fed on Sophora flavescens Aiton, the host‐plant of S. divinus asonis: 15 species were leaf and stem feeders, seven (including S. divinus asonis) fed on flower buds, four were flower feeders and one fed on the seeds of So. flavescens. Of these 27 species, four were omnivores. The natural enemies of S. divinus asonis comprised six insect species, 11 spider species and one entomopathogenic fungus species, including six new predator records. The linkage density, total number of trophic links, connectance, average chain length and predator–prey ratio were 1.617, 97, 0.0548, 2.267 and 0.694, respectively. Exclusion of any of the 15 species with four or more trophic links reduced the connectance of the food web. These 15 species included facultative mutualistic attendant ants and predators of S. divinus asonis, herbivores to So. flavescens, an omnivore feeding on S. divinus asonis and So. flavescens, and prey insects. Therefore, future studies should monitor these 15 species.
Host‐associated divergence in the activity of digestive enzymes in two populations of the gypsy moth Lymantria dispar (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)
Authors: Lazarević Jelica , Janković‐Tomanić Milena , Savković Uroš , Đorđević Mirko , Milanović Slobodan , Stojković Biljana
Published: October 2017

The gypsy moth is a generalist insect pest with an extremely wide host range. Adaptive responses of digestive enzymes are important for the successful utilization of plant hosts that differ in the contents and ratios of constituent nutrients and allelochemicals. In the present study, we examined the responses of α‐amylase, trypsin, and leucine aminopeptidase to two tree hosts (suitable oak, Quercus cerris, and unsuitable locust tree, Robinia pseudoacacia) in the fourth, fifth, and sixth instars of gypsy moth larvae originating from oak and locust tree forest populations (hereafter assigned as Quercus and Robinia populations, respectively). Gypsy moths from the Robinia forest had been adapting to this unsuitable host for more than 40 generations. To test for population‐level host plant specialization, we applied a two‐population × two‐host experimental design. We compared the levels, developmental patterns, and plasticities of the activities of enzymes. The locust tree diet increased enzyme activity in the fourth instar and reduced activity in advanced instars of the Quercus larvae in comparison to the oak diet. These larvae also exhibited opposite developmental trajectories on the two hosts, i.e. activity increased on the oak diet and decreased on the locust tree diet with the progress of instar. Larvae of the Robinia population were characterized by reduced plasticity of enzyme activity and its developmental trajectories. In addition, elevated trypsin activity in response to an unsuitable host was observed in all instar larvae of the Robinia population, which demonstrated that Robinia larvae had an improved digestive performance than did Quercus larvae.
Transcriptome sequencing reveals abundant olfactory genes in the antennae of the rice leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Liu Su , Wang Wen‐Long , Zhang Yu‐Xing , Zhang Bang‐Xian , Rao Xiang‐Jun , Liu Xiao‐Ming , Wang Dong‐Ming , Li Shi‐Guang
Published: October 2017

The rice leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenée, is an important lepidopteran pest of rice in Asia. Insect olfactory proteins, including olfactory receptors (ORs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs), chemosensory proteins (CSPs) and sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), are responsible for perception of sex pheromones and host plant volatiles, and thus regulate insect behavior. In the present study, transcriptome sequencing was conducted for C. medinalis antennae to identify genes involved in olfaction. A total of 45800 unigenes were assembled from the transcriptome dataset. Of these, 19696 (43.0%) unigenes were annotated by searching against the NCBI non‐redundant database. Functional classification of these unigenes were also conducted by using the Gene Ontology (GO) and Cluster of Orthologous Groups (COG) databases. We identified 90 putative olfactory genes (including 37 novel ones): 46 ORs, 15 IRs, 12 OBPs, 15 CSPs and two SNMPs. BLASTX best hit results indicated that these genes were most identical to their respective orthologs from other lepidopteran insects. Quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR (qRT‐PCR) assays were performed to investigate the expression profiles of newly identified OR genes. All of the OR genes were antennae‐specific or antennae‐enriched. Of these, CmedOR28 and CmedOR31 were mainly expressed in male antennae, while CmedOR27 and CmedOR32 were enriched in female antennae. Our results establish a solid foundation for future functional studies of these genes.
Effects of thiamethoxam and lambda‐cyhalothrin on spermatogenesis of Euschistus heros (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Aguiar Rachel Colauto Milanezi , Husch Patrícia Elizabeth , Gallo Raquel Bozini , Levy Sheila Michele , Vilas‐Bôas Laurival Antônio , Da Silva Carlos Roberto Maximiano , Sosa‐Gómez Daniel Ricardo , Da Rosa Renata
Published: October 2017

Euschistus heros (Fabricius, 1798) is one of the most harmful insect pests damaging Brazilian soybean crops and has become a major problem due to its high population density and resistance to insecticides. Currently, there are no data on whether alterations of testicular morphology and chromosomal behavior are associated with the resistance mechanisms related to the action of insecticides. This study integrated analyses of the testicular morphology, meiocyte cell division, and chromosomal structure and behavior in the process of spermatogenesis in E. heros. We compared these features among wild‐caught individuals, insecticide‐susceptible and ‐resistant strains. The resistant strain was established through a selection experiment exposing the bugs to insecticides (thiamethoxam + lambda‐cyhalothrin) for 15 generations. No differences were detected in the examined features among the three groups of experimental individuals: the testis comprised six lobes, with the fifth lobe thinner than the others; the karyotype was 2n = 14 (12 + XY), with no evident changes in chromosomal breakage, rearrangement or behavior in the meiosis; and abundant spermatozoa were observed in all testicular lobes. Thus, any effects of the long‐term (15 generations) experimental selection by exposure to the insecticides were not detected on the male germinal tissue and chromosomes, suggesting the irrelevancy of the examined features to insecticide‐resistance mechanisms in E. heros.
Promoting Resilience with the ¡Unidos Se Puede! Program: An Example of Translational Research for Latino Families
Authors: Cox Ronald B.
Published: October 2017

Objective

To illustrate the use of T3 translational research in the development of a culturally appropriate intervention targeting Latino immigrant youth and their families.

Background

Demographers estimate that 88% of U.S. population growth over the next 50 years will be from immigrants and their offspring. Much of this growth will come from individuals of Latino heritage. One reason for the lag in developing effective interventions for this rapidly expanding population is the inherent complexity that accompanies working with immigrant populations. In T3 translational research, much of this complexity is managed by generating research closer to the actual setting of practice. Investigators adopt a community‐based participatory research (CBPR) approach that incorporates practitioners, community stakeholders, and members of the target population to explore ways of applying recommendations from research for use in real‐world settings.

Method

We followed the development of the ¡Unidos Se Puede! (United We Can!) program to illustrate the process of T3 translational research with a Latino immigrant population.

Results

Initial program impact indicated a 29% increase in grade point average from Time 1 to Time 2, and absences and tardiness were reduced.

Conclusion

The feasibility and acceptance of ¡Unidos Se Puede! implemented with Latino parents and youth offers evidence of usefulness of CBPR to address the complexity of translational research with immigrant populations.

Implications

There is an urgent need for T3 translational research that develops novel prevention approaches to help immigrant parents raise healthy and thriving children.
Effects of build orientation and thickness of allowance on the fatigue behaviour of 15–5 PH stainless steel manufactured by DMLS
Authors: Croccolo Dario , De Agostinis Massimiliano , Fini Stefano , Olmi Giorgio , Bogojevic Nebojsa , Ciric‐Kostic Snezana
Published: October 2017

The present study is focused on the fatigue strength of 15–5 PH stainless steel, built by Direct Metal Laser Sintering. Six‐specimen sets were manufactured, mechanically and thermally treated and tested under rotating bending fatigue. The study investigates the effects of the build orientation (parallel, perpendicular, or 45° inclined with respect to the vertical stacking direction) and of allowance for machining (1 mm or 3 mm at gage). The results, processed by an ANOVA methodology, indicate that allowance for machining has a beneficial effect on the fatigue response. Removing the surface irregularities, averagely leads to a 19% enhancement of the fatigue limit. The build orientation also becomes beneficial, when the slanted samples are included in the experiment. In this case, a fatigue strength increase up to 20% can be achieved. Further developments will include the investigation of the effects of heat and surface treatments, involving also further materials in the study.
Response surface optimisation of germination conditions to improve the accumulation of bioactive compounds and the antioxidant activity in quinoa
Authors: Paucar‐Menacho Luz María , Martínez‐Villaluenga Cristina , Dueñas Montserrat , Frias Juana , Peñas Elena
Published: October 2017

Germination has been proposed as an economic approach to improve the content of bioactive compounds in pseudocereals. In this work, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to investigate the impact of germination conditions on the phytochemical content and antioxidant activity of quinoa. The use of desirability methodology showed that the optimum conditions to maximise the content of total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity in sprouted quinoa were 20 °C for 42 h. Sprouts produced under these conditions exhibited increases of 80% and 30% in TPC and antioxidant activity, respectively, compared to un‐germinated seeds, and contained high γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration. The nonsignificant lack‐of‐fit and high determination coefficients obtained confirmed the suitability of the predictive models developed for TPC and antioxidant activity, whilst the one obtained for GABA was not significant (R2 < 0.75) within the conditions studied. Sprouting under optimum conditions enhanced the content of both flavonoid and nonflavonoid compounds, being the increase in flavonoids more pronounced. Kaempferol‐O‐dirhamnosyl‐galactopyranose and quercetin‐O‐glucuronide were the compounds that experienced the most noticeable increase in quinoa after germination. In conclusion, this study provides useful information on the optimum germination conditions to improve the levels of health‐promoting compounds in quinoa.
Effect of aromatherapy massage on anxiety, depression, and physiologic parameters in older patients with the acute coronary syndrome: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bahrami Tahereh , Rejeh Nahid , Heravi‐ Karimooi Majideh , Vaismoradi Mojtaba , Tadrisi Seyed Davood , Sieloff Christina
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of aromatherapy massage on anxiety, depression, and physiologic parameters in older patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 90 older women with acute coronary syndrome. The participants were randomly assigned into the intervention and control groups (n = 45). The intervention group received reflexology with lavender essential oil, but the control group only received routine care. Physiologic parameters, the levels of anxiety and depression in the hospital were evaluated using a checklist and the Hospital's Anxiety and Depression Scale, respectively, before and immediately after the intervention.

Results

Significant differences in the levels of anxiety and depression were reported between the groups after the intervention. The analysis of physiological parameters revealed a statistically significant reduction (P < .05) in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate. However, no significant difference was observed in the respiratory rate.

Conclusions

Aromatherapy massage can be considered by clinical nurses an efficient therapy for alleviating psychological and physiological responses among older women suffering from acute coronary syndrome.
Conducting research through cross national collaboration
Authors: Steinke Mary K. , Rogers Melanie , Lehwaldt Daniela , Lamarche Kimberley
Published: October 2017

Aim

To explore the collaborative nature of an international research project with other advanced practice nurse researchers and critically analyse the process.

Background

Research within the nursing community is recognized internationally as important to ensure that nurses participate in cutting‐edge health care and promote evidence‐based practices, yet there is little detail found in literature on how a successful collaborative relationship is initiated and conducted in advanced practice research.

Design

Discussion paper: The purpose of this paper is to discuss the process of collaboration on a research study among advanced practice nurses from four countries who are members of an international organization.

Implications for Nursing

The collaborative process in international nursing research can be challenging and rewarding. It is important to remember that there is a relationship between the complexity of the study and the time required to complete it. Keys to success include following established guidelines.

Conclusion

This project was a valuable experience in developing collaborative relationships as well as creating partnerships for future research to build on the knowledge gained. The authors' linkages to universities facilitated their participation in the research and completion of the ethical review processes. The use of social media and university resources was indispensable.
Autism and primary care dentistry: parents’ experiences of taking children with autism or working diagnosis of autism for dental examinations
Authors: Thomas Nicole , Blake Sharon , Morris Christopher , Moles David R.
Published: October 2017

Background

Accessing and receiving preventative dental treatment can be difficult for children with autism due to sensory processing disorders and/or challenging behaviours coupled with a reported reluctance by dentists to treat these children.

Aim

To gather dental experiences of UK parents of children with autism or working diagnosis of autism and explore how they feel primary care dental services can be improved.

Design

A total of 17 parents of children with a diagnosis or working diagnosis of autism took part in semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed thematically.

Results

Key themes identified were flexibility of the dental team and environment, confidence of the parents to advocate for their children's needs, continuity of services and clear referral pathways to specialist services. Cross‐cutting all themes was the value of clear communication. The experiences provide greater understanding of issues such as hyper‐empathy, the dental chair, challenges of the waiting room, perceived medical authority, and the importance of continuation of care.

Conclusion

In line with previous research about the importance of family‐centred care, a strong relationship between parents and the whole dental team is essential for children with autism to access dental examinations and have satisfactory experience of care.
Respiratory syncytial virus evaluation among asymptomatic and symptomatic subjects in a university hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in the period of 2009‐2013
Authors: Moreira Luciana Peniche , Watanabe Aripuana Sakurada Aranha , Camargo Clarice Neves , Melchior Thais Boim , Granato Celso , Bellei Nancy
Published: October 2017

Background

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is recognized as an important cause of respiratory tract infections. Immunocompromised patients, healthcare workers (HCWs) and children contacts are at increased risk of acquiring the infection. However, the impact of asymptomatic infection in transmission has not been well studied. Objectives: this study evaluated the frequency and viral load (VL) of RSV in nasal swab samples of individuals with different risk factors for acquiring infection in a university hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Methods

We included 196 symptomatic children and their 192 asymptomatic caregivers, 70 symptomatic and 95 asymptomatic HCWs, 43 samples from symptomatic HIV‐positive outpatients, and 100 samples of asymptomatic HIV patients in the period of 2009‐2013.

Results

RSV infection was detected in 10.1% (70/696) of samples, 4.4% (17/387) of asymptomatic patients, and 17.1% (53/309) from symptomatic patients. (P < .0001). The VL of symptomatic patients (4.7 log copies/mL) was significantly higher compared to asymptomatic patients (2.3 log copies/mL). RSV detection among asymptomatic caregivers (6.8%; 13/192) was significantly higher compared to other asymptomatic adults, HIV and HCWs (2.0%; 4/195; P = .0252). A close contact with an infected child at home was an important risk to RSV acquisition [OR 22.6 (95% CI 4.8‐106.7)]. Children who possibly transmitted the virus to their asymptomatic contacts had significantly higher viral load than children who probably did not transmit (P < .0001).

Conclusions

According to our results, it is important to know if people circulating inside the hospital have close contact with acute respiratory infected children.
Use of epidermal skin grafts in chronic wounds: a case series
Authors: Everts Peter AM , Warbout Marco , de Veth Diana , Cirkel Merel , Spruijt Nicole E , Buth Jaap
Published: October 2017

In stalled, chronic wounds, more aggressive and proactive wound closure efforts are needed. We describe adjunctive use of epidermal grafting in patients with chronic wounds. Wound bed preparation consisted of surgical necrotectomy or sharp debridement, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, compression therapy, platelet‐rich plasma therapy and/or heparan sulphate agents. Epidermal grafts were harvested from the patient's thigh and applied to the wound. Wound and donor site healing was monitored. A total of 78 patients (average age = 64·1 ± 15·6 years) were included in the study. Common comorbidities included hypertension (47·4%), venous insufficiency (37·2%) and obesity (28·2%). Average wound duration was 13·2 months (range: 0·3–180 months). The most common wound types were dehiscence (29·5%), radiation ulcer (24·4%) and venous ulcer (17·9%). Total time from epidermal grafting to wound closure was 10·0 ± 7·3 weeks. Of the 78 wounds, 66 (84·6%) reached full wound closure (49 < 3 months, 16 > 3 months, 1 without time data). Of 78 wounds, 10 (12·8%) underwent partial wound healing, while 2 wounds (2/78; 2·6%) remained unhealed. These results suggest that wound surface reduction can be achieved by proactive early application of biological therapies and epidermal skin grafts, which may help decrease time to wound healing.
Atrial tachycardias: Cause or effect with ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation?
Authors: Yamashita Seigo , Hooks Darren A. , Shah Ashok , Relan Jatin , Cheniti Ghassen , Kitamura Takeshi , Berte Benjamin , Mahida Saagar , Sellal Jean‐Marc , Jefairi Nora Al , Frontera Antonio , Amraoui Sana , Collotand Florent , Denis Arnaud , Derval Nicolas , Sacher Frédéric , Cochet Hubert , Dubois Rémi , Hocini Mélèze , Haïssaguerre Michel , Klein George , Jaïs Pierre
Published: October 2017

Introduction

It is largely believed that atrial tachycardias (ATs) encountered during ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (PsAF) are a byproduct of ablative lesions. We aimed to explore the alternative hypothesis that they may be a priori drivers of AF remaining masked until other AF sources are reduced or eliminated.

Methods and results

Radiofrequency ablation of fibrillatory drivers mapped by electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI; ECVUE™, Cardioinsight Technologies, Cleveland, OH, USA) terminated PsAF in 198 (73%) out of 270 patients (61 ± 10 years, 9 ± 9 m). Two hundred and six ATs in 158 patients were subsequently mapped. Their anatomic relationship to the fibrillatory drivers prospectively identified by ECGI was then established. There were 26 (13%), 52 (25%), and 128 (62%) focal, localized, and macrore‐entrant ATs, respectively. In focal/localized re‐entrant ATs, 64 (82%) were terminated within an AF‐driver region, in which 26 (81%) among 32 focal/localized ATs analyzed with 3‐D‐mapping system merged to driver map occurred from AF‐driver regions in 1.0 ± 1.0 cm distance from the driver core. Importantly, there was no attempt at ablation of the associated AF‐driver region in 25 of 64 (39%) of focal/localized re‐entrant ATs. The sites of ATs origin generally had low‐voltage, fractionated, and long‐duration electrograms in AF. All but two focal/localized re‐entrant ATs were successfully ablated.

Conclusion

The majority of post‐AF‐ablation focal and localized re‐entrant ATs originate from the region of prospectively established AF‐driver regions. A third of these are localized to regions not subsequently submitted to ablation. These data suggest that many ATs exist, although not necessarily manifest independently, prior to ablation. They may have a role in the maintenance of PsAF in these individuals.
Identification of a potent MAR element from the human genome and assessment of its activity in stably transfected CHO cells
Authors: Tian Zheng‐Wei , Xu Dan‐Hua , Wang Tian‐Yun , Wang Xiao‐Yin , Xu Hong‐Yan , Zhao Chun‐Peng , Xu Guang‐Hua
Published: October 2017

Low‐level and unstable transgene expression are common issues using the CHO cell expression system. Matrix attachment regions (MARs) enhance transgene expression levels, but additional research is needed to improve their function and to determine their mechanism of action. MAR‐6 from CHO chromosomes actively mediates high and consistent gene expression. In this study, we compared the effects of two new MARs and MAR‐6 on transgene expression in recombinant CHO cells and found one potent MAR element that can significantly increase transgene expression. Two MARs, including the human CSP‐B MAR element and DHFR intron MAR element from CHO cells, were cloned and inserted downstream of the poly(A) site in a eukaryotic vector. The constructs were transfected into CHO cells, and the expression levels and stability of eGFP were detected by flow cytometry. The three MAR sequences can be ranked in terms of overall eGFP expression, in decreasing order, as follows: human CSP‐B, DHFR intron MAR element and MAR‐6. Additionally, as expected, the three MAR‐containing vectors showed higher transfection efficiencies and transient transgene expression in comparison with those of the non‐MAR‐containing vector. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the NFAT and VIBP elements within MAR sequences may contribute to the enhancement of eGFP expression. In conclusion, the human CSP‐B MAR element can improve transgene expression and its effects may be related to the NFAT and VIBP elements.
Cell death‐inducing DFF45‐like effector C gene silencing alleviates pulmonary vascular remodeling in a type 2 diabetic rat model
Authors: Sui Dong‐xin , Zhou Hui‐min , Wang Feng , Zhong Ming , Zhang Wei , Ti Yun
Published: October 2017

Aims/Introduction

Cell death‐inducing DFF45‐like effector C (CIDEC) was proven to be closely associated with the development of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. We aimed to investigate whether CIDEC gene silencing could alleviate pulmonary vascular remodeling in a type 2 diabetes rat model.

Materials and Methods

We built a type 2 diabetes rat model. An adenovirus harboring CIDEC small interfering ribonucleic acid was then injected into the jugular vein to silence the CIDEC gene. After hematoxylin–eosin and Sirius red staining, we detected indexes of the pulmonary arterioles remodeling. Immunohistochemical staining of proliferating cell nuclear antigen was used to evaluate the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation. Apoptosis was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling reaction and western blotting. The levels of signaling pathway proteins expression were measured by western blotting analyses.

Results

Histological analysis of the pulmonary artery showed that the thickness of the adventitia and medial layer increased notably in type 2 diabetes rats. Immunohistochemistry showed that more proliferating cell nuclear antigen‐positive pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells could be seen in type 2 diabetes rats; and after CIDEC gene silencing, proliferating cell nuclear antigen positive cells decreased accordingly. Cleaved caspase‐3 and cleaved poly (adenosine diphosphate‐ribose) polymerase measured by western blotting showed increased apoptosis with overexpressed CIDEC in diabetes. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling reaction showed that the apoptosis mainly occurred in endothelial cells. Western blotting analysis showed CIDEC overexpression in rats with diabetes, and phosphorylated adenosine 5′ monophosphate‐activated protein kinase‐α expression was significantly decreased. After CIDEC gene silencing, the expression of phosphorylated adenosine 5′ monophosphate‐activated protein kinase‐α was upregulated.

Conclusions

The CIDEC/5′ monophosphate‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway could be a potential therapeutic candidate against pulmonary vascular diseases in type 2 diabetes patients.
Interpreting the Chinese version of quality of life questionnaire for functional digestive disorders
Authors: Hou Zheng‐kun , Mi Hong , Liu Feng‐bin , Chen Zhuo‐qun , Chen Xin‐lin , Wu Yu‐hang , Che Xiao‐lu
Published: October 2017

Background and Aim

The Chinese version quality of life questionnaire for functional digestive disorders (Chin‐FDDQL) is a useful health assessment instrument for functional dyspepsia. This study aims to identify its score interpretation for clinical practice.

Methods

Data of Chin‐FDDQL from the functional dyspepsia patients (≥ 18 years) between November 2009 and April 2013 were enrolled in the 1st and 14th day. After baseline and responsiveness analysis, the single score interpretation and percentile ranks were established. The statistically reliable change was defined with effect size, standardized response mean, minimal detectable change, and others. Then the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for health improvement was performed to define the clinically important change.

Results

Two hundred two functional dyspepsia patients, 150 healthy participants, and 25 missing data were enrolled for analysis. Compared with the intake patients, the discharged and healthy persons have significant better health status in all domains (P < 0.001, expect discomfort in discharged people, P = 0.142), totally contrast to missing data. The reliability for single total intake and discharge were both ± 1. Based on score distribution, the 25th, 50th, and 75th percentile ranks were 49, 58, and 66 for intake scores and 59, 65, and 72 for discharge scores, respectively. The minimal detectable change and Reliable Change Index were 6 and 11 for total score. Receiver operating characteristic analyses supported that total score changes 4 or more represented minimal clinically important improvement.

Conclusions

The score interpretation system of the Chin‐FDDQL could assist clinician's decision making during the therapy practice.
Humility, Forgiveness, and Emerging Adult Female Romantic Relationships
Authors: Bell Chance A. , Fincham Frank D.
Published: October 2017

Among a sample of emerging adult females (N = 152) we empirically examined the role of humility and forgiveness in romantic relationships. We specifically tested a model linking perceived humility to relationship satisfaction with self‐forgiveness and partner‐forgiveness. Participants in a romantic relationship completed measures of self‐reported humility, self‐forgiveness, partner‐forgiveness, and relationship satisfaction. Serial mediation analyses were conducted using path analysis to test the following sequence, humilityself‐forgivenesspartner‐forgivenessrelationship satisfaction. Findings indicate that humility was related to relationship satisfaction via a serially mediated path of self‐forgiveness and partner‐forgiveness, which was not reducible to impression management. We consider implications for research and clinical practice.
Effects of GABA active steroids in the female brain with a focus on the premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Authors: Bixo M. , Johansson M. , Timby E. , Michalski L. , Bäckström T.
Published: October 2017

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) afflicts 3%‐5% of women of childbearing age, and is characterised by recurrent negative mood symptoms (eg, irritability, depression, anxiety and emotional lability) during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The aetiology of PMDD is unknown, although a temporal association with circulating ovarian steroids, in particular progesterone and its metabolite allopregnanolone, has been established during the luteal phase. Allopregnanolone is a positive modulator of the GABAA receptor: it is sedative in high concentrations but may precipitate paradoxical adverse effects on mood at levels corresponding to luteal phase concentrations in susceptible women. Saccadic eye velocity (SEV) is a measure of GABAA receptor sensitivity; in experimental studies of healthy women, i.v. allopregnanolone decreases SEV. Women with PMDD display an altered sensitivity to an i.v. injection of allopregnanolone compared to healthy controls in this model. In functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies, women with PMDD react differently to emotional stimuli in contrast to controls. A consistent finding in PMDD patients is increased amygdala reactivity during the luteal phase. Post‐mortem studies in humans have revealed that allopregnanolone concentrations vary across different brain regions, although mean levels in the brain also reflect variations in peripheral serum concentrations. The amygdala processes emotions such as anxiety and aggression. This is interesting because allopregnanolone is detected at high concentrations within the region into which marked increases in blood flow are measured with fMRI following progesterone/allopregnanolone administration. Allopregnanolone effects are antagonised by its isomer isoallopregnanolone (UC1010), which significantly reduces negative mood symptoms in women with PMDD when administered s.c. in the premenstrual phase. This was shown in a randomised, placebo‐controlled clinical trial in which the primary outcome was change in symptom scoring on the Daily Rating of Severity of Problems (DRSP): the treatment reduced negative mood scores (P < .005), as well as total DRSP scores (P < .01), compared to placebo in women with PMDD. In conclusion, the underlying studies of this review provide evidence that allopregnanolone is the provoking factor behind the negative mood symptoms in PMDD and that isoallopregnanolone could ameliorate the symptoms as a result of its ability to antagonise the allopregnanolone effect on the GABAA receptor.
Relevance of smoking interventions for dental clinic patients with smoking‐related disease
Authors: Bilodeau Elizabeth A. , Guggenheimer James
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Despite a decline in cigarette smoking in the United States, high rates persist among the socioeconomically underserved who consequently are at risk for smoking‐related disease (SRD). Since academically affiliated dental clinics are more likely to encounter underserved patients, smoking interventions could address both the oral and systemic risks of continued smoking. To determine the relevance of providing smoking counseling in the context of SRD, this study examined the prevalence of smoking and its associations with socioeconomic status (SES), SRD and its sequela, and medication use.

Methods

Socioeconomic and smoking status was determined from 1,797 electronic health records of a sample of patients at a Pennsylvania dental clinic in 2010. Low SES included patients who were covered by a Medicaid program (MA) or “self‐payers.” High SES encompassed those with an employment‐based commercial dental insurance (COM). Self‐reported smoking rates were compared with patients' SES, SRDs or sequela, and medications being used for the management of their SRDs.

Results

Overall, 41.7 percent of these patients were smoking. Smoking was related to SES with the highest rate (52.7 percent) among MA patients compared with 31.5 percent in patients with COM. In addition, 37 percent of patients with SRD or sequela and 33 percent who were taking medications for their management were smoking.

Conclusions

Academically affiliated dental clinics are more likely to encounter underserved patients who smoke and have SRD. For greater patient impact and receptivity, it is essential that tobacco cessation interventions emphasize the risks of smoking on systemic as well as oral health.
Methyl jasmonate: a phytohormone with potential for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Besson Jean Carlos Fernando , de Carvalho Picoli Caroline , Matioli Graciette , Natali Maria Raquel Marçal
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) has been identified as a vital cell regulator in plants. This substance is analogous to eicosanoids and similar to that of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. In animals and in animal cells, it displayed an efficient neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action; while in tumoral strains, it demonstrates a potentially highly attractive mechanism of apoptosis induction through various cellular and molecular mechanisms. The aim of the present review was to explore two new hypotheses that explain the action of MeJA, a lipid phytohormone and its potentially anti-apoptotic mechanism for use as a therapeutic target for future treatment of Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs).

Key findings

Methyl jasmonate is a new candidate for the treatment of IBDs, modulating the expression of the major classes of caspase-type protease families that selectively act on the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of the apoptotic process. Its action is based on the reduction of the expression in tumour necrosis factor tissue levels and the modulating action of reactive oxygen species production, acting only on the destruction of cells that express the diseased phenotype, and preserving cells that are not transformed.

Conclusions

Methyl jasmonate may represent an alternative for the transduction processes of important signals in the cellular renewal of the intestinal mucosa.