bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of amyloid β peptide by neprilysin expressed from Borna disease virus vector
Authors: Sakai Madoka , Ueda Sakiho , Daito Takuji , Asada‐Utsugi Megumi , Komatsu Yumiko , Kinoshita Ayae , Maki Takakuni , Kuzuya Akira , Takahashi Ryosuke , Makino Akiko , Tomonaga Keizo
Published: May 2018

Accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ40 and Aβ42) in the brain is a characteristic of Alzheimer disease (AD). Because neprilysin (NEP) is a major Aβ‐degrading enzyme, NEP delivery in the brain is a promising gene therapy for AD. Borna disease virus (BoDV) vector enables long‐term transduction of foreign genes in the central nerve system. Here, the proteolytic ability of NEP transduced by the BoDV vector was evaluated and it was found that the amounts of Aβ40 and Aβ42 decreased significantly, suggesting that NEP expressed from the BoDV vector is functional in that it degrades Aβ.
‘If I can walk that far’: space and embodiment in stories of illness and recovery
Authors: Heavey Emily
Published: May 2018

Illness and recovery transform embodied experience, and transform the experience of space. Space, in turn, is a valuable resource in the telling of an illness narrative. Starting from a phenomenological perspective that takes the body to be the centre of experience, and hence of selfhood and storytelling, this article offers an argument for and an approach to analysing space as a narrative resource in stories about illness and recovery. Using a case study of one woman's stories about her amputation, it demonstrates how both narrated space and narrating space can be used as devices to structure the narrative and position its characters and interlocutors to construct the narrator's embodied experiences and identities. The article reveals intersections between embodied experience, space, and narrative identity construction, offering a new way of attending to illness narratives and a new way of engaging with narrative space.
Retracted: The heterogeneous effect of diversity: Ascriptive identities, class and redistribution in developed democracies
Authors: YAKTER ALON
Published: May 2018

Retraction Statement: Alon Yakter, The heterogeneous effect of diversity: Ascriptive identities, class and redistribution in developed democracies, European Journal of Political Research 2019, 58(1), 12283 (https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1475-6765.12283). The above article, published online on 17 May 2018 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief Emiliano Grossman, and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. This action has been agreed due to an error at the publishers which caused a duplicate of the article to be published on 8 February 2019. The correct version of the article is to be found at: ‘The heterogeneous effect of diversity: Ascriptive identities, class and redistribution in developed democracies’ by Alon Yakter (https://doi.org/10.1111/1475-6765.12315).
The reverse remodeling response to sacubitril/valsartan therapy in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Martens Pieter , Beliën Hanne , Dupont Matthias , Vandervoort Pieter , Mullens Wilfried
Published: May 2018

Background

Major classes of medical therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) induce reverse remodeling. The revere remodeling response to sacubitril/valsartan remains unstudied.

Methods

We performed a single‐center, prospective assessor‐blinded study to determine the reverse remodeling response of sacubitril/valsartan therapy in HFrEF patients with a class I indication (New York heart Association [NYHA]‐class II‐IV, Left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] < 35%, optimal dose with Renin‐Angiotensin‐System‐Blocker [RAS‐blocker]). Doses of sacubitril/valsartan were optimized to individual tolerance. Echocardiographic images were assessed offline by 2 investigators blinded to both the clinical data and timing of echocardiograms.

Results

One‐hundred‐twenty‐five HFrEF patients (66 ± 10 years) were prospectively included. The amount of RAS‐blocker before and after switch to sacubitril/valsartan was similar(P = .290), indicating individual optimal dosing of sacubitril/valsartan. Over a median(IQR) follow‐up of 118(77‐160) days after initiation of sacubitril/valsartan, LVEF improved (29.6 ± 6% vs 34.8 ± 6%; P < .001) and Left ventricular end‐systolic (LVESV) and end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV) decreased (LVESV; 147 ± 57 mL vs 129 ± 55 mL; P < .001 and LVEDV; 206 ± 71 mL vs197 ± 72 mL; P = .027). Volumetric remodeling was associated with a reduction in the degree of mitral regurgitation (1.59 ± 1.0 vs 1.11 ± 0.8; P < .001; [scale from 0‐4]). Metrics of diastolic function improved; including a drop in the E/A‐wave ratio (1.75 ± 1.13 vs 1.38 ± 0.88; P = .002) and diastolic filling time (% of cycle length) prolonged (48 ± 9% vs 52 ± 1%; P = .005). The percent of patients with a restrictive mitral filling pattern dropped from 47% to 23% (P = .004). A dose‐dependent effect was noted for changes in LVEF (P < .001) and LVESV (P = .031), with higher doses of sacubitril/valsartan leading to more reverse remodeling.

Conclusion

Switching therapy in eligible HFrEF patients from a RAS‐blocker to sacubitril/valsartan induces beneficial reverse remodeling of both metrics of systolic as diastolic function.
Comparison and discussion of the treatment guidelines for small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhao Honglin , Ren Dian , Liu Hongyu , Chen Jun
Published: May 2018

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which accounts for 15% to 17% of all lung cancers, is one of the leading causes of cancer‐related death worldwide. More than 130 000 new diagnoses of SCLC and 100 000 deaths from the disease were estimated to have occurred in China in 2013. The existing guidelines of SCLC therapeutic principles differ by region. In recent years, new immunotherapy and targeted therapy treatments have been lacking. In order to understand the current status of SCLC treatment in more detail, we identified the similarities and differences among the latest National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines for SCLC, the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Lung Cancer Guidelines, and the European Society for Medical Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines for Metastatic SCLC, and present a reference of treatment strategies that should prove beneficial for the treatment of patients with SCLC.
Pregnancy, parity and periodontal disease
Authors: Morelli EL , Broadbent JM , Leichter JW , Thomson WM
Published: May 2018

Many women believe that their dental condition deteriorated during pregnancy or as a result of having children. Epidemiological studies have reported an association between higher parity and tooth loss, and higher parity and periodontal attachment loss. Several possible explanations for this association exist. First, hormonal changes during pregnancy affect the immune response to bacterial plaque and drive vascular and gingival changes that may contribute to heightened gingival inflammation. These changes are transient, without irreversible loss of periodontal attachment, and post‐partum resolution can be expected for most women. For women with destructive periodontal disease, the effects of pregnancy and parity are unclear. Second, it is also plausible that parity and socioeconomic position (SEP) have shared risk factors, increasing the incidence of disease or influencing its management. Education, one aspect of SEP, is an important determining factor for women's fertility rate, with a gradient of fewer children with higher educational attainment. Higher levels of education are also favourably associated with behaviours conducive to oral health, and a lower incidence of damaging health behaviours. Thus, the potential for confounding is considerable. This review examines the literature on the association between pregnancy, parity and periodontal health, and explores sociobehavioural mechanisms for the observed association.
Looking into the eye of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an opportunity for better microvascular profiling of these complex patients
Authors: Vaes Anouk W. , Spruit Martijn A. , Theunis Jan , Goswami Nandu , Vanfleteren Lowie E. , Franssen Frits M.E. , Wouters Emiel F.M. , De Boever Patrick
Published: May 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex disease with many patients suffering from cardiovascular comorbidity. However, cardiovascular diseases remain often undiagnosed in COPD. Assessment of the retinal microvasculature can provide value in cardiovascular profiling of these patients. Retinal microvascular assessment carried out via a noninvasive eye exam represents an easy to use tool when examining patients with COPD. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of studies assessing structural and functional changes in the retinal microvasculature of patients with COPD. Findings demonstrated that structural and functional microvascular changes were more common and severe in COPD patients as compared to non‐COPD controls, although few retinal investigations have been performed in patients with COPD. As cardiovascular comorbidities are highly prevalent in COPD, we advocate more research to investigate the value of an eye exam for microvascular phenotyping of COPD patients.
Umbilical resection during laparoscopic surgery for urachal remnants
Authors: Maemoto Ryo , Matsuo Susumu , Sugimoto Shinichi , Tokuka Atsuo
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Because urachal remnants are rare, no standard therapeutic guidelines have been established for this lesion. In recent years, laparoscopic surgery (LS) has been performed by many surgeons and urologists to treat urachal remnants. The prevention of postoperative umbilical infection and late malignant transformation are major issues in the treatment of urachal remnants. Adequate resection of the urachal epithelial tissue is required, and therefore, umbilical resection (UR) is performed. We retrospectively assessed the feasibility of this modality for urachal remnants by examining cases we have experienced as well as 210 Japanese surgical cases found through literature review.

Methods

From January 1998 to March 2016, we experienced 14 operative cases of urachal remnants who underwent LS at Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital. We examined the types of urachal remnants and patients’ ages, symptoms, surgical methods, and pathological findings.

Results

We performed UR in 6 of these 14 LS patients to achieve appropriate resection of the urachal epithelial tissue. The main indication for UR was a long history of preoperative therapies for umbilical infection. The average observation period after the operation was 3.95 years, and no patients developed recurrent umbilical infection or cancer. No patients complained about the aesthetic outcome after umbilicoplasty.

Conclusion

We recommend that UR with LS be performed for urachal remnants to prevent any recurrent umbilical infection or malignant transformation in the future.
Vitrification for bovine embryos with low‐quality grade
Authors: Tajimi Hiroshi , Yamazaki Tsugumi , Oike Syoko , Yoshida Tatsuyuki , Okada Konosuke , Kuwayama Masashige , Ushijima Hitoshi
Published: May 2018

This study was conducted to examine the utility of vitrification for bovine embryos with low‐quality grade, and simple cryoprotectants dilution method for practitioners. In Experiment 1, survival of frozen embryos was compared with that of vitrified embryos using minimum volume cooling (MVC). Then, vitrified embryos were used to confirm the optimum sucrose concentration in Experiment 2. The survival rates of embryos that had been vitrified following diluted cryoprotectants with the one‐step in‐straw method were compared with those of fresh control embryos in Experiment 3. Frozen‐thawed or vitrified‐warmed blastocysts were cultured with TCM‐199 supplemented with 100 μmol/L beta‐mercaptoethanol +5% fetal bovine serum at 38.5°C in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air, their survival after 24 hr were compared. The development to term of fair quality in vivo embryos after vitrification was examined in Experiment 4. Results show that survival rates of frozen‐thawed embryos were lower (p < .05) than that of vitrified‐warmed ones. When vitrified embryos were warmed in 0.3 mol/L sucrose in straws, their survival rate was 100%. The total cell numbers of vitrified‐warmed embryos were comparable to those of fresh control embryos. The six calves from 13 vitrified embryos were delivered in Experiment 4. These results indicate that MVC vitrification following one‐step cryoprotectants dilution is utilized to preserve low‐quality bovine embryos.
Semi-Parametric Methods of Handling Missing Data in Mortal Cohorts Under Non-Ignorable Missingness
Authors: Wen Lan , Seaman Shaun R.
Published: May 2018

We propose semi-parametric methods to model cohort data where repeated outcomes may be missing due to death and non-ignorable dropout. Our focus is to obtain inference about the cohort composed of those who are still alive at any time point (partly conditional inference). We propose: i) an inverse probability weighted method that upweights observed subjects to represent subjects who are still alive but are not observed; ii) an outcome regression method that replaces missing outcomes of subjects who are alive with their conditional mean outcomes given past observed data; and iii) an augmented inverse probability method that combines the previous two methods and is double robust against model misspecification. These methods are described for both monotone and non-monotone missing data patterns, and are applied to a cohort of elderly adults from the Health and Retirement Study. Sensitivity analysis to departures from the assumption that missingness at some visit t is independent of the outcome at visit t given past observed data and time of death is used in the data application.
Detection of Multiple Perturbations in Multi-Omics Biological Networks
Authors: Griffin Paula J. , Zhang Yuqing , Johnson William Evan , Kolaczyk Eric D.
Published: May 2018

Cellular mechanism-of-action is of fundamental concern in many biological studies. It is of particular interest for identifying the cause of disease and learning the way in which treatments act against disease. However, pinpointing such mechanisms is difficult, due to the fact that small perturbations to the cell can have wide-ranging downstream effects. Given a snapshot of cellular activity, it can be challenging to tell where a disturbance originated. The presence of an ever-greater variety of high-throughput biological data offers an opportunity to examine cellular behavior from multiple angles, but also presents the statistical challenge of how to effectively analyze data from multiple sources. In this setting, we propose a method for mechanism-of-action inference by extending network filtering to multi-attribute data. We first estimate a joint Gaussian graphical model across multiple data types using penalized regression and filter for network effects. We then apply a set of likelihood ratio tests to identify the most likely site of the original perturbation. In addition, we propose a conditional testing procedure to allow for detection of multiple perturbations. We demonstrate this methodology on paired gene expression and methylation data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA).
How can we expand active surveillance criteria in patients with low‐ and intermediate‐risk prostate cancer without increasing the risk of misclassification? Development of a novel risk calculator
Authors: Gandaglia Giorgio , van den Bergh Roderick C.N. , Tilki Derya , Fossati Nicola , Ost Piet , Surcel Christian I. , Sooriakumaran Prasanna , Tsaur Igor , Valerio Massimo , Kretschmer Alexander , Zaffuto Emanuele , Salomon Laurent , Montorsi Francesco , Graefen Markus , van der Poel Henk , de la Taille Alexandre , Briganti Alberto , Ploussard Guillaume ,   the European Association of Urology Young Academic Urologists Working Party on Prostate Cancer (EAU‐YAUWP)
Published: May 2018

Objective

To develop a novel tool to increase the number of patients with prostate cancer eligible for active surveillance (AS) without increasing the risk of unfavourable pathological features (i.e., misclassification) at radical prostatectomy (RP).

Patients and Methods

Overall, 16 049 patients with low‐ or intermediate‐risk prostate cancer treated with RP were identified. Misclassification was defined as non‐organ confined or grade group ≥3 disease at RP. The coefficients of a logistic regression model predicting misclassification were used to develop a risk score. We then performed a systematic analysis of different thresholds to discriminate between patients with or without unfavourable disease and we compared it to available AS criteria.

Results

Overall, 5289 (33.0%) patients had unfavourable disease. At multivariable analyses, PSA level, clinical stage, biopsy grade group, the number of positive cores, and PSA density were associated with the risk of unfavourable disease (all P < 0.001). The Prostate Cancer Research International: Active Surveillance (PRIAS) criteria were associated with a lower risk of misclassification (13%) compared to other criteria. Overall, 3303 (20.6%) patients were eligible according to the PRIAS protocol. The adoption of an 18% threshold according to the risk score increased the proportion of eligible patients from 20.6% to 29.4% without increasing the risk of misclassification as compared to the PRIAS criteria.

Conclusions

The use of a novel risk score for AS selection would result in an absolute increase of 10% in the number of patients eligible for this approach without increasing the risk of misclassification.
Usefulness of real‐time three‐dimensional ultrasonography in percutaneous nephrostomy: an animal study
Authors: Hongzhang Hong , Xiaojuan Qin , Shengwei Zhang , Feixiang Xiang , Yujie Xu , Haibing Xiao , Gallina Kazobinka , Wen Ju , Fuqing Zeng , Xiaoping Zhang , Mingyue Ding , Huageng Liang , Xuming Zhang
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of real‐time three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (US) in guiding percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN).

Materials and Methods

A hydronephrosis model was devised in which the ureters of 16 beagles were obstructed. The beagles were divided equally into groups 1 and 2. In group 1, the PCN was performed using real‐time 3D US guidance, while in group 2 the PCN was guided using two‐dimensional (2D) US. Visualization of the needle tract, length of puncture time and number of puncture times were recorded for the two groups.

Results

In group 1, score for visualization of the needle tract, length of puncture time and number of puncture times were 3, 7.3 ± 3.1 s and one time, respectively. In group 2, the respective results were 1.4 ± 0.5, 21.4 ± 5.8 s and 2.1 ± 0.6 times. The visualization of needle tract in group 1 was superior to that in group 2, and length of puncture time and number of puncture times were both lower in group 1 than in group 2.

Conclusions

Real‐time 3D US‐guided PCN is superior to 2D US‐guided PCN in terms of visualization of needle tract and the targeted pelvicalyceal system, leading to quick puncture. Real‐time 3D US‐guided puncture of the kidney holds great promise for clinical implementation in PCN.
Extending the scope of amantadine drug by incorporation of phenolic azo Schiff bases as potent selective inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase II, drug‐likeness and binding analysis
Authors: Channar Pervaiz A. , Saeed Aamer , Shahzad Danish , Larik Fayaz Ali , Hassan Mubashir , Raza Hussain , Abbas Qamar , Seo Sung‐Yum
Published: May 2018

A series of Amantadine‐based azo Schiff base dyes 6a–6e have been synthesized and characterized by 1H NMR and 13C NMR and evaluated for their in vitro carbonic anhydrase II inhibition activity and antioxidant activity. All of the synthesized showed excellent carbonic inhibition. Compound 6b was found to be the most potent derivative in the series, and the IC50 of 6b was found to be 0.0849 ± 0.00245 μm (standard Acetazolamide IC50 = 0.9975 ± 0.049 μm). The binding interactions of the most active analogs were confirmed through molecular docking studies. Docking studies showed 6b is interacting by making two hydrogen bonds w at His93 and Ser1 residues, respectively. All compounds showed a good drug score and followed Lipinski's rule. In summary, our studies have shown that these amantadine‐derived phenolic azo Schiff base derivatives are a new class of carbonic anhydrase II inhibitors.
Trends in the prescribing of topical nasal agents Using an NHS England data base
Authors: Saeed H.S. , Wright R.B. , Ghosh S.K.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Our aim is to present data depicting geographical prescribing trends and expenditure related to topical nasal agent prescriptions across clinical commissioning groups (CCG's) in England. We assess if prescribing trends can act as a surrogate marker for allergic rhinitis (AR) and rhinosinusitis disease burden (RS).

Design

NHS England primary care prescriptions dispensed for topical drugs used in nasal allergy (BNF chapter 12.2.1) were accessed using OpenPrescribing beta software. Graphical data over a 5‐year period was generated to highlight nationwide trends in prescribing and expenditure. Out of 211 CCG districts, the highest and lowest 40 prescribing rate CCG's were subdivided according to rural/urban output and geographical location to highlight specific regional trends. Two sampled, paired and unpaired t tests of unequal variance were performed to determine the significance of observed trends.

Results

The 5‐year trend in prescription rate (mean yearly expenditure £40 725 258) for drugs used in nasal allergy marginally increased. Peak prescription was during months of high environmental pollen. Regardless of pollen season (June 2016 vs November 2015), CCG's of urban districts had significantly lower rates of prescribing (P ≤ .001). Amongst the 40 lowest and 40 highest prescribing rate CCG's, prescription rates fell significantly between months of high and low environmental pollen (P ≤ .0001). Regardless of pollen season, rural eastern and eastern coastal districts of England had persistently high rates of prescription.

Conclusions

This study shows marked geographical variation in prescribing for topical nasal agents in England. There is propensity for eastern districts to have higher rates of prescribing in England. Adopting prescribing trends as a surrogate marker for disease burden could allow allergy and endoscopic sinus surgery services to be concentrated to specific regions. This would provide more effective, economical treatment for both AR and RS.
Executive migration: How information cues from departing firms and the labor market affect shareholder value
Authors: Khan Sarfraz , Kalelkar Rachana , Miller Stewart R. , Gerard Sanders Wm.
Published: May 2018

Manuscript Type

Empirical.

Research Question/Issue

This study examines the extent to which newly‐hired migrating executives affect shareholder reaction at their arriving firms. We draw upon the information economics and upper echelons literatures to explain how (1) deviant behavior and ability information cues from an executive's “departing” firm contribute to shareholder value at the “arriving” firm and how (2) labor market information cues moderate these relationships.

Research Findings/Insights

We use event study methodology to determine investors' reactions to the hiring announcements. We test our framework with a sample of 268 chief financial officers who migrated between 2002 and 2014. Controlling for sample selection and endogeneity, we find that a financial restatement at the migrating executive's departing firm adversely affects shareholder reaction at the arriving firm, and the effect is stronger when the migration is recent (i.e., within one year). An extended analysis reveals an interaction between departing firm financial restatement and departing firm financial performance.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Our study contributes to the literature by theorizing and showing that investors screen by using information cues from migrating executives' departing firms when signals are not salient in order to determine their contributions to shareholder reaction at arriving firms. Investors react negatively to deviant behavior information cues from the departing firms of newly hired executives. Also, the framework explains the moderating effect of labor market information cues—investors react unfavorably to deviant behavior information cues when they involve same‐year executive migrations.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Our study suggests that investors and hiring firms have divergent views on the value added of deviant behavior, yet convergent views on the value added from executive abilities.
Health Research Participation, Opportunity, and Willingness Among Minority and Rural Communities of Arkansas
Authors: McElfish Pearl A. , Long Christopher R. , Selig James P. , Rowland Brett , Purvis Rachel S. , James Laura , Holland Angel , Felix Holly C. , Narcisse Marie‐Rachelle
Published: May 2018

Prior research suggests that rural and minority communities participate in research at lower rates. While rural and minority populations are often cited as being underrepresented in research, population‐based studies on health research participation have not been conducted. This study used questions added to the 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to understand factors associated with i) health research participation, ii) opportunities to participate in health research, and iii) willingness to participate in health research from a representative sample (n = 5,256) of adults in Arkansas. Among all respondents, 45.5% would be willing to participate in health research if provided the opportunity and 22.1% were undecided. Only 32.4% stated that they would not be willing to participate in health research. There was no significant difference in participation rates for rural or racial/ethnic minority communities. Furthermore, racial/ethnic minority respondents (Black or Hispanic) were more likely to express their willingness to participate.
Would intravitreal bevacizumab injection increase risk of cerebral infarction?
Authors: Kwon J. , Jee D. , Lim S. H.
Published: May 2018

Background and Purpose

Although studies have evaluated the relationship between intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection and cerebral infarction (CI), the effects of IVB on CI are still not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of IVB injection on patients with CI with age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients with AMD who received IVB injections for 1 year and determined the incidence of CI within 60 days after IVB injection to analyze the possible association between IVB and CI.

Results

A total of 263 patients were enrolled over a 12‐month period. Six patients (2.28%) were diagnosed with CI within 2 months after receiving an IVB injection. The incidence of CI in patients of 75–84 years of age was 6.38%. These results showed a higher incidence for patients with IVB injections than the results of previous epidemiological studies (0.13% for all age groups, 1.68% for patients of 75–84 years of age). All CIs occurred 21–53 days after the IVB injection (mean: 39.33 ± 14.65 days). Logistic regression analyses showed that age and CI history were factors associated with CI.

Conclusions

Treatment with IVB might be an independent risk factor for CI. These results are useful for planning treatment strategies for patients with AMD and for prevention of CI.
Serum serotonin levels in patients with epileptic seizures
Authors: Murugesan Arun , Rani M. R. Sandhya , Hampson Johnson , Zonjy Bilal , Lacuey Nuria , Faingold Carl L. , Friedman Daniel , Devinsky Orrin , Sainju Rup K. , Schuele Stephan , Diehl Beate , Nei Maromi , Harper Ronald M. , Bateman Lisa M. , Richerson George , Lhatoo Samden D.
Published: May 2018

Profound cardiovascular and/or respiratory dysfunction is part of the terminal cascade in sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Central control of ventilation is mediated by brainstem rhythm generators, which are influenced by a variety of inputs, many of which use the modulatory neurotransmitter serotonin to mediate important inputs for breathing. The aim of this study was to investigate epileptic seizure–induced changes in serum serotonin levels and whether there are potential implications for SUDEP. Forty‐one epileptic patients were pooled into 2 groups based on seizure type as (1) generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTCS) of genetic generalized epilepsy and focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures (FBTCS; n = 19) and (2) focal seizures (n = 26) based on clinical signs using surface video‐electroencephalography. Postictal serotonin levels were statistically significantly higher after GTCS and FBTCS compared to interictal levels (P = .002) but not focal seizures (P = .941). The change in serotonin (postictal‐interictal) was inversely associated with a shorter duration of tonic phase of generalized seizures. The interictal serotonin level was inversely associated with a shorter period of postictal generalized electroencephalographic suppression. These data suggest that peripheral serum serotonin levels may play a role in seizure features and earlier postseizure recovery; these findings merit further study.
Surgical correction of entrapment of the large colon and caecum through a mesoduodenal rent with standing laparoscopic repair in a mare
Authors: Cypher E. E. , Blackford J. , Snowden R. T. , Sexton J. A. , Schumacher J.
Published: May 2018

A 12‐year‐old Tennessee Walking Horse mare displaying signs of severe colic for 48 h was found during an exploratory celiotomy to have entrapment of a cranially displaced large colon and the caecum through a rent in the mesoduodenum. The entrapment was relieved, and 24 h later, the mesoduodenal rent was closed laparoscopically, with the mare standing. The owner reported 6 months later that the mare had displayed no signs of colic since being discharged from the hospital 11 days after surgery.
Physiological and oncogenic roles of the PRL phosphatases
Authors: Hardy Serge , Kostantin Elie , Hatzihristidis Teri , Zolotarov Yevgen , Uetani Noriko , Tremblay Michel L.
Published: May 2018

The human Phosphatase of Regenerative Liver (PRL) family comprises three members (PRL‐1, ‐2, ‐3; gene name PTP4A1, PTP4A2, PTP4A3) that are highly expressed in a majority of cancers. This review summarizes our current understanding of PRL biology, including an overview of their evolutionary relationships and the regulatory mechanisms controlling their expression. We provide an updated view on our current knowledge on the PRL functions in solid tumors, hematological cancer, and normal physiology, particularly emphasizing on the use of in vivo mouse models. We also highlight a novel relationship positioning PRL as a central node controlling magnesium homeostasis through an association with the CNNM proteins, which are involved in magnesium transport.
Williams' expansion‐based approximation of the displacement field in an Al 2024 compact tension specimen reconstructed from optical measurements
Authors: Seitl S. , Malíková L. , Růžička V. , Moreno B. , Lopez‐Crespo P.
Published: May 2018

A study on the approximation of the displacement field in the vicinity of a crack tip in a compact tension specimen made from Al 2024‐T351 is presented. Components of displacements vector are expressed using the linear elastic fracture mechanics theory via Williams' power series multi‐parameter formulation. Determination of the coefficients of the terms of this series is performed using a least squares‐based regression technique known as over deterministic method for which displacements data obtained experimentally via optical measurements are taken as inputs. The displacement fields reconstructed are discussed, and several conclusions are drawn regarding the number of the Williams' power series terms considered and the region where the displacement are investigated.
Four‐year measurement of net ecosystem gas exchange of switchgrass in a Mediterranean climate after long‐term arable land use
Authors: Di Virgilio Nicola , Facini Osvaldo , Nocentini Andrea , Nardino Marianna , Rossi Federica , Monti Andrea
Published: May 2018

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a perennial lignocellulosic crop that has gained large interest as a feedstock for advanced biofuels. Using an eddy covariance system, we monitored the net ecosystem gas exchange in a 5‐ha rainfed switchgrass crop located in the Po River Valley for four consecutive years after land‐use change from annual food crops. Switchgrass absorbed 58.2 Mg CO2 ha−1 year−1 (GPP—gross primary production), of which 24.5 (42%) were fixed by the ecosystem (NEE—net ecosystem exchange). Cumulated NEE was negative (i.e. C sink) even in the establishment year when biomass and canopy photosynthesis are considerably lower compared to the following years. Taking into account the last 3 years only (postestablishment years), mean NEE was −26.9 Mg CO2 ha−1 year−1. When discounted of the removed switchgrass biomass, ecosystem CO2 absorption was still high and corresponded to −8.4 Mg CO2 ha−1 year−1. The estimation of the life cycle global warming effect made switchgrass an even greater sink (−12.4 Mg CO2 ha−1 year−1), thanks to the credits obtained with fossil fuels displacement. Water use efficiency (WUE), that is the ratio of NEE to the water used by the crop as the flux of transpiration (ET), corresponded to 1.6 mg C g−1 of H2O, meaning that, on average, 170 m3 of water was needed to fix 1 Mg of CO2. Again, considering only the postestablishment years, WUE was 1.7 mg C g−1 of H2O. In the end, about half of annual precipitation was used by the crop every year. We conclude that switchgrass can be a valuable crop to capture significant amount of atmospheric CO2 while preserving water reserves and estimated that its potential large‐scale deployment in the Mediterranean could lead to an annual greenhouse gas emission reduction up to 0.33% for the EU.
Substance P and Calcitonin gene‐related peptide expression in human periodontal ligament after root canal preparation with Reciproc Blue, WaveOne Gold, XP EndoShaper and hand files
Authors: Caviedes‐Bucheli J. , Rios‐Osorio N. , Rey‐Rojas M. , Laguna‐Rivero F. , Azuero‐Holguin M. M. , Diaz L. E. , Curtidor H. , Castaneda‐Ramirez J. J. , Munoz H. R.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To quantify Substance P (SP) and Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) expression in healthy human periodontal ligament from premolars after root canal preparation with Reciproc Blue, WaveOne Gold, XP EndoShaper and hand files.

Methodology

A total of 50 human periodontal ligament samples were obtained from healthy mandibular premolars where extraction was indicated for orthodontic reasons. Prior to extraction, 40 of these premolars were equally divided into four groups, and root canals were prepared using four different systems: Reciproc Blue, WaveOne Gold, XP EndoShaper and a hand instrumentation technique. The remaining 10 healthy premolars were extracted without treatment and served as a negative control group. All periodontal ligament samples were processed, and SP and CGRP were measured by radioimmunoassay. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to establish significant differences between groups and LSD post hoc comparisons were also performed.

Results

Greater SP and CGRP values were found in the hand instrumentation group, followed by the XP EndoShaper, WaveOne Gold and the Reciproc groups. The lower SP and CGRP values were for the healthy periodontal ligament group. The Kruskal–Wallis test revealed significant differences between groups (P < 0.05). Post hoc Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in SP and CGRP expression between all the comparisons except for the Reciproc Blue and WaveOne Gold group (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

All the root canal preparation techniques tested increased SP and CGRP expression in human periodontal ligament, with hand files and XP EndoShaper instruments being associated with greater neuropeptide release compared to Reciproc Blue and WaveOne Gold files.
Effect of UV‐B treatment during the growth process on the postharvest quality of mung bean sprouts (Vigna radiata)
Authors: Gui Mengyuan , He Hui , Li Yida , Chen Xiaoxuan , Wang Hanbo , Wang Taixia , Li Jingyuan
Published: May 2018

The production patterns and nutritious qualities of mung bean sprouts are in line with the consumption needs of modern people. This study was conducted to explore the effects of low doses of UV‐B irradiation on the 3‐day growth period of mung bean sprouts. The results showed that, when mung bean sprouts were irradiated with UV‐B (0.738 kJ m−2) for 1 h per day, their total phenolic content increased by 22.80%, and the activity of polyphenol oxidase decreased by 45.45%. Hypocotyl epidermis stomata were closed, reducing water loss and the opportunity for microbes to invade plants, leading to the maintenance of freshness of the sprouts. In conclusion, UV‐B irradiation for 1 h per day during the growth of mung bean sprouts can effectively improve their preservation. This method is a low‐cost, environmental friendly and pollution‐free physical preservation technique, and it has good application prospects.
Process analytical technology for cheese manufacture
Authors: Panikuttira Bhavya , O'Shea Norah , Tobin John T. , Tiwari Brijesh K. , O'Donnell Colm P.
Published: May 2018

Recent research on the development and application of process analytical technology (PAT) for cheese manufacture is reviewed in this article. PAT is a framework for innovative process manufacturing and quality assurance, which has been widely investigated for dairy processing applications, where particular processing challenges arise due to the variations in the physiochemical properties of milk. Cheese manufacturers are increasingly considering the adoption of a PAT approach to facilitate manufacture of cheese with enhanced product quality, safety and process efficiency. However, to date adoption of PAT in the dairy industry has been limited due to challenges associated with development and validation of calibration models, instrument variability, sanitary design and compatibility with processing environments. New technical developments in PAT tools, advances in chemometric modelling, robust data management tools and improved understanding of critical product and process parameters will facilitate further adoption of a PAT approach in cheese manufacture.
Accumulation and effects of dietary advanced glycation end products on the gastrointestinal tract in rats
Authors: Yuan Xiaojin , Zhao Jinsong , Qu Wanting , Zhang Yingxiao , Jia Benpan , Fan Zhiyi , He Qihan , Li Juxiu
Published: May 2018

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract represents the first barrier against the penetration of organisms by dietary advanced glycation end products (AGEs), but the tissue accumulation of AGEs and AGE‐induced effects on the GI tract have yet to be completely elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the tissue accumulation of AGEs and AGE‐induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the GI tract of rats after long‐term consumption of AGEs from bread crust (BC). The GI tract was then removed to analyse carboxymethyllysine (CML) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and the levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). This study demonstrates that the oral intake of AGEs promotes their accumulation in the GI tract, and AGEs attenuate the first‐line antioxidant defence and stimulate the inflammatory response of the GI tract by downregulating enzymatic antioxidative pathways and increasing inflammatory cytokine levels.
Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale: Establishing content validity and psychometric properties
Authors: Jones Cindy , Sung Billy , Moyle Wendy
Published: May 2018

Aim

To develop and psychometrically test the Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale.

Background

It is important to study engagement in people with dementia when exploring the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions that can promote meaningful activity, stimulation and well‐being, through an increase in positive emotions and an improvement in quality of life. The Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale was developed based on current literature and previous research work on a video coding tool to ascertain the effect of psychosocial interventions on engagement in people with dementia.

Design/Method

Using the Delphi technique, the content validity of the scale was evaluated by 15 dementia experts and formal/informal dementia carers. Psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated using 131 videos of people with dementia presented with PARO—a therapeutic, interactive, robotic seal—in long‐term aged care facilities.

Results

A 10‐item scale was established following the rewording, combining and elimination of prospective items, with revisions made to the instructions for using and scoring the scale. An overall consensus with agreement for the scale was established among the panel of experts. The scale demonstrated robust internal consistency, inter‐rater and test–retest reliability and convergent and discriminant validity.

Conclusion

This study successfully developed the Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale, with established content validity and psychometric properties. The scale assesses the behavioural and emotional expressions and responses of engagement by people with dementia when partaking in a psychosocial activity in five areas: affective, visual, verbal, behavioural and social engagement.
How does glucagon‐like peptide 1 stimulate human β‐cell proliferation? A lesson from islet graft experiments
Authors: Fujitani Yoshio
Published: May 2018

The incidence of type 2 diabetes increases with age. The age‐dependent decline in functional β‐cell mass contributes to the increased risk of onset of diabetes, reflecting the central role of pancreatic β‐cells in glucose homeostasis. Indeed, the replication rate of human and rodent β‐cells is known to decline sharply with age, and such a characteristic of β‐cells might explain the increased onset of type 2 diabetes in the older population. The molecular mechanism involved in the age‐dependent decline of β‐cell proliferation has been extensively studied, mainly using rodents and in vitro culture systems, but its molecular basis is still largely unknown. A mechanism by which glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor activation induces human β‐cell proliferation only within a restricted time window was recently suggested in a study in which human islets were grafted into immunodeficient mice. The authors found that the mitogenic effects of exendin‐4 require calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T‐cells signaling, and that only in juvenile islets, exendin‐4 induced the expression of nuclear factor of activated T‐cells signaling components, as well as downstream target genes that facilitate β‐cell proliferation. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation as to why glucagon‐like peptide 1 exerts mitogenic effects only in juvenile human β‐cells.
Relational Turbulence Theory Applied to the Transition from Deployment to Reintegration
Authors: Knobloch Leanne K. , Theiss Jennifer A.
Published: May 2018

The transition from deployment to reintegration can be unexpectedly demanding for military couples as they cope with the changes that arose during separation and identify new patterns of relating. Although the postdeployment transition has important ramifications for the well‐being of military couples, the homecoming process is relatively undertheorized and underresearched within the deployment cycle. We identify relational turbulence theory, and its predecessor, the relational turbulence model, as a conceptual approach that may account for the upheaval that returning service members and at‐home partners encounter during the transition from deployment to reintegration. We delineate relational turbulence principles and research with the goal of evaluating their promise for understanding the postdeployment transition. We also describe implications for research and practice.
Current concepts in the neuropathogenesis of mucolipidosis type IV
Authors: Boudewyn Lauren C. , Walkley Steven U.
Published: May 2018

Mucolipidosis type IV (MLIV) is an autosomal recessive, lysosomal storage disorder causing progressively severe intellectual disability, motor and speech deficits, retinal degeneration often culminating in blindness, and systemic disease causing a shortened lifespan. MLIV results from mutations in the gene MCOLN1 encoding the transient receptor potential channel mucolipin‐1. It is an ultra‐rare disease and is currently known to affect just over 100 diagnosed individuals. The last decade has provided a wealth of research focused on understanding the role of the enigmatic mucolipin‐1 protein in cell and brain function and how its absence causes disease. This review explores our current understanding of the mucolipin‐1 protein in relation to neuropathogenesis in MLIV and describes recent findings implicating mucolipin‐1′s important role in mechanistic target of rapamycin and TFEB (transcription factor EB) signaling feedback loops as well as in the function of the greater endosomal/lysosomal system. In addition to addressing the vital role of mucolipin‐1 in the brain, we also report new data on the question of whether haploinsufficiency as would be anticipated in MCOLN1 heterozygotes is associated with any evidence of neuron dysfunction or disease. Greater insights into the role of mucolipin‐1 in the nervous system can be expected to shed light not only on MLIV disease but also on numerous processes governing normal brain function.

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This article is part of the Special Issue “Lysosomal Storage Disorders”.
Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers chloroform extract – a preclinical study
Authors: Philip Sheena , Tom Greeshma , Vasumathi Asha V
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers is an inevitable ingredient of Ayurvedic rasayanas for the treatment of disorders with unregulated inflammation. However, studies regarding the mechanism of anti-inflammatory potential of this plant at the molecular level are lacking.

Methods

In vitro evaluations were conducted in RAW264.7 macrophages which were preincubated with chloroform extract of T. cordifolia (CETC) and subsequently stimulated with LPS. The expressions of COX-2, TNF-α and iNOS genes were analysed by SQRT-PCR and Western blot, cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β and PGE2) levels by ELISA, NF-κB activation and p38 MAPK phosphorylation by Immunoblot and confocal imaging. Anti-inflammatory potential of CETC was validated further in a rat model of carrageenan-induced hind paw edema. Phytochemical characterisation was carried out using the HPLC technique.

Key findings

The LPS-induced upregulation of proinflammatory biomarkers was significantly prevented by CETC, without inhibiting COX-1. CETC- and LPS-incubated cells showed reduced phosphorylated p38 MAPK levels, and higher levels NF-κB were retained in cytoplasm. Rats pretreated with CETC showed a statistically significant decrease in paw oedema (P ≤ 0.05), and HPLC characterisation detected stigmasterol and β-sitosterol. The LD50 of CETC lies above 2000 mg/Kg body weight.

Conclusions

These findings encourage us strongly to focus on CETC to develop anti-inflammatory drugs with lower degree of inhibition to the constitutively expressing COX-1.