bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optic disc pit maculopathy
Authors: Petrou Petros
Published: December 2019

Since Wiethe first described the clinical presentation of two optic disc depressions in a 62‐year‐old woman in 1882, there have been many studies addressing what later become known as the “optic disc pit.” The main complication of this condition, termed optic disc pit maculopathy, is associated with visual deterioration. Treatment of optic disc pit maculopathy remains challenging. Optic disc pits are a very rare clinical entity, affecting approximately one in 11 000 people. Patients with congenital optic disc pit sometimes remain asymptomatic, but 25% to 75% present with visual deterioration in their 30s or 40s after developing macular schisis and detachment. The most widely accepted treatment for such patients is a surgical approach involving pars plana vitrectomy with or without internal limiting membrane peeling, with or without endolaser photocoagulation and C3F8 endotamponade.
Beyond anti‐TNF‐alpha therapy. New perspectives and preliminary clinical experience
Authors: Carreño Ester
Published: December 2019

What are the options when anti‐TNK‐alpha therapy fails? What it is the evidence for these alternatives. The presentation will cover current evidence in non‐anti‐TNF‐alpha biologic therapy and new molecules with a potential role in the treatment of non‐infectious uveitis.
Effects of technical and biological factors on the dynamic vessel analysis
Authors: Klee Sascha
Published: December 2019

Retinal arterioles and venules dilate when stimulated with flickering light. This phenomenon is described as functional hyperemia and closely associated with neurovascular coupling. The flicker causes a short period of heightened cellular metabolism which increases the need for blood. As a result the retinal vessels dilate and the blood flow increases. The dynamic vessel analysis (DVA) is a non‐invasive method to measure these processes. The DVA is often conducted under reduced ambient lighting conditions and biased by different adaptation levels, is used in repetitive tests with varying resting periods or is influence by different flicker contrasts. However the question of the impact of this technical and biological factors on the DVA is still not sufficiently clarified. This presentation will provide a brief introduction to the method of different experiment designs that can help to clarify these question. Finally, it will present current studies quantifying the influence of the factors.
Dynamic retinal vessel analysis in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kotliar Konstantin
Published: December 2019

Vascular risk factors contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Retinal vessels are similar to cerebral vessels in their structure and function. Dynamic retinal vessel analysis is usually defined as non‐invasive clinical observation of the reaction of retinal vessels to a physiological stimulus. The data which is thus generated may be further analysed with respect to dynamic time‐dependent and spatial vessel behaviour. We apply this principle of integrated analysis of pathologic dynamic retinal vessel behaviour in order to reveal microvascular alterations in the retina in Alzheimer's disease dementia. Four different aspects of dynamic retinal vessel behaviour were evaluated: together with the assessment of retinal vessel reaction to flickering light unstimulated vessel wall behaviour and pulse wave propagation were assessed using mathematical signal analysis. Additionally differences in amplitude and frequency of spatial vessel diameter changes along the measured vessel segments were analysed to assess the microstructure of retinal vascular blood columns. Significant differences in several structural and functional parameters of retinal vessels in Alzheimer's disease dementia were found. The results might indicate alterations in neuro‐vascular coupling, vascular endothelial function, smooth musculature and retinal vessel wall rigidity in this disease, leading to altered perfusion and vascular regulation following metabolic demand in the central microcirculation.
Corneal graft ou corneal regeneration?
Authors: Bourges Jean‐Louis
Published: December 2019

A corneal opacity can severely impair vision. It consists either of surface conjunctivalisation mainly due to limbal stem cell deficiency, stromal matrix deposits and scar from corneal dystrophy and degeneration or corneal edema secondary to various degree of endothelial failure. Penetrationg keratoplasty (PK) as a unique option to replace opacities by transparent tissue has switched into a wide range of lamellar techniques. Each of them should be selected optimally as it could generate some surgical hazard as well as concerning post‐operative issues. Besides, regenerative therapy progresses tremendously. Grafting limbal stem cell expansions or stromal matrix progenitor cells has become a reality. Stromal matrix regenerative drugs are commercially available. Researchers are printing artificial biological buttons. The human trial step has been taken for clinical research on endothelial cell regeneration. Taken all together, a new question arises: is the choice between keratoplasty or keratoregeneration the next option to address corneal opacity?
Corneal Biomechanics in Refractive Surgery
Authors: Fuchsluger Thomas
Published: December 2019

Measurement of corneal biomechanics is becoming increasingly popular due to novel diagnostic instruments and to its importance to corneal integrity. This talk gives an insight into novel data of corneal biomechanics in refractive surgery.
Antisense oligonucleotide treatment in CEP290‐related leber congenital amaurosis
Authors: Leroy Bart P , V Cideciyan Artur , Jacobson Samuel G , V Drack Arlene , Ho Allen C , Garafalo Alexandra , Roman Alejandro J , Schwartz Mike , Biasutto Patricia , de Wit Wilma , Cheetham Michael E , Adamson Peter S , Rodham David , Girach Aniz , De Zaeytijd Julie , Van Cauwenbergh Caroline , Russell Stephen R
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To assess safety and efficacy of the antisense oligonucleotide (QR‐110) in LCA10 patients carrying the c.2991+1655A>G allele in the ciliopathy gene CEP290.

Methods

In a three‐center open‐label clinical trial (NCT03140969), subjects received intravitreal injections of QR‐110 in the worse seeing eye every three months. There were two combinations of loading/maintenance doses: 160/80 μg or 320/160 μg. Systemic and ocular safety was evaluated with standard methods. Efficacy was evaluated with visual acuity (VA), oculomotor control and instability (OCI), two‐colour full‐field stimulus test (FST), and mobility course testing among others. In a patient with an exceptional response, additional specialized tests of visual function were performed. Study was planned for 4 injections over one year but based on exceptional results in one patient an interim analysis was performed with the data cutoff date of Aug 2018.

Results

Ten patients received at least 1 and up to 4 injections, and were followed for at least 1 and up to 9 months. At 3 months after the first (loading) injection, treated eyes were significantly improved compared to baseline by an average of 0.67 log (7 lines) in VA (P=0.022), 0.62 log in red FST (P=1E‐6) and 0.81 log in blue FST (P<2E‐16). At 3 months after the second (maintenance) injection, VA and FST results remained improved, and OCI results also demonstrated greater stability. Exceptional responder showed a VA improvement from light perception to 20/400, and large improvements in FST. Removing the exceptional responder from the analyses did not change the main statistical conclusion supporting significant improvements of vision at 3 months. Adverse events included cystoid macular oedema and cataract.

Conclusions

Preliminary results with QR‐110 support an acceptable safety profile and potential for improvement of visual acuity and light sensitivity. Safety of the drug, and the efficacy and durability of the effect continue to be evaluated.
Can we quantify data on AngioOCT
Authors: Stalmans Ingeborg
Published: December 2019

Since its inception, OCT angiography has moved from pretty images that were subjectively judged to a source of quantifiable vascular data. It has already proven itself as being able to detect glaucoma and it also shows promise as a useful tool for progression analysis. However, there is still controversy in published literature. This might be happening since several studies have been conducted with different approaches to this technology. These differences range from the acquisition stage to the analysis of captured data. Standardization might be key in leading this technology to the next level, allowing a more clear and accurate comparison of study results. Several approaches are being employed and this talk will present data from these attempts.
Evaluation of ganglion cell death: implications for therapy
Authors: Francesca Cordeiro M.
Published: December 2019

Ganglion cell death is implicated in several optic neuropathies, most commonly, glaucoma. Neuroprotective therapies have the potential to halt RGC loss through promoting cell survival. Mechanisms by which this may occur have been well‐researched over the years, and include neuroprotection. However, there until recently there were few methods of assessing the target organ – the ganglion cell. New and promising approaches to assessing the health and sicknes of retinal ganglion cells, including DARC, will be discussed. With these advances, it may be possible for the next wave of new glaucoma treatments in clinic to be assessed with theses promising biomarkers and surrogate endpoints.
Nerve regeneration in liquid cornea patches
Authors: Griffith May
Published: December 2019

In current clinical practice, corneas with perforations that are repaired by cyanoacrylate gluing and those with recurrent ulcerations are often treated by corneal grafting as the treatment to restore vision. However, there is a severe shortage of donor corneas worldwide. More importantly, when someone has a toothache and visits the dentist, the dentist removed the pathologic portions and fills the tooth. Corneal transplantation for a perforation or ulcer would be similar to extracting the tooth and replacing with an implant. Our objective was to develop a method for restoring pathologic corneas such as those with ulcers or perforations that avoids corneal transplantation. We have developed a Liquid Cornea Patch (LCP) that is based on a collagen‐like peptide conjugated to a polyethylene glycol backbone. The LCP is applied as a viscous liquid that polymerises in situ to form a hydrogel. We previously reported its efficacy in sealing large perforation in vitro (Samarawickrama et al. 2018). We also showed that the crosslinking agent used was non‐toxic to corneal epithelial and endothelial cells at doses used for hydrogel formation. Here, we report on a second‐generation patch which we successfully tested in vivo in rabbit and mini‐pig corneas. The LCP withstands bursting pressures up to 170 mm Hg. Although not as strong as cyanoacrylate glue, the bursting pressure is much higher than would be encountered in the human eye (where normal intraocular pressure is between 12 and 22 mm Hg). Over 12 months in mini‐pig corneas, the LCPs promoted regeneration of cornea tissue and nerves. We show that nerve in‐growth proceeded as per solid versions of collagen and collagen‐like peptide‐based implants.
Pharmacokinetics of retinal drug delivery
Authors: Urtti Arto
Published: December 2019

The Sight threatening changes of many ophthalmic diseases are present in the retina. Thus, retina is an important drug target, but it is not an easy tissue for drug delivery. Depending on the route of drug delivery (intravitreal, periocular, systemic) the retinal drug exposure is hampered by various physical barriers (vitreous, inner limiting membrane, retinal pigment epithelium and retinal capillaries) and blood flow factors. In this presentation, delivery aspects are discussed quantitatively utilizing modeling tools and addressing required dosing in different situations. Intravitreal, periocular and systemic routes of drug delivery will be discussed. Furthermore, scaling factors for drug doses between mouse, rabbit and humans are presented.
Where we stand with replacement and regeneration of blindness from optic neuropathy
Authors: Levin Leonard
Published: December 2019

Some of the most dramatic changes in medical therapy of glaucoma have come from the realization that intraocular pressure lowering, which addresses the most treatable risk factor for glaucoma progression, is either insufficient, hard to achieve, or associated with adverse effects. In response, there has been a rebound in research at the basic science and clinical levels on neuroprotective therapies, and even institution of clinical trials for optic neuropathies. This presentation will address the breakthroughs over the past year.
OCT and OCT‐A based management of AMD. Present indications for the use of fluorescein angiography
Authors: Coscas Florence
Published: December 2019

Late stage age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) has been described as the leading cause of blindness in industrialized countries. Neovascular AMD (nAMD) is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels from the choroid through the Bruch’s membrane (CNV). Fluorescein angiography (FA) is historically considered the gold standard in the diagnosis and classification of CNV while indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) can be used to identify the entire extent of the CNV lesion.Once the diagnosis of CNV is established, the effect of anti‐VEGF therapy is efficiently monitored with non‐invasive Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). So nowadays clinical practice mostly relies on structural OCT biomarkers of activity. However, conventional OCT devices do not allow direct visualization of the neovascular network and neovascular activity is inferred through indirect signs such as intraretinal fluid, subretinal fluid or pigment epithelial detachments. OCT‐angiography (OCT‐A) is the most recent advance of OCT technology and provides high resolution images of retinal and choroidal vasculature. It can CNV with the same sensitivity as contrast angiography and enables to evaluate morphological characteristics of neovascular networks. Previous works have demonstrated consistent qualitative features associated with exudation on structural OCT. For instance, exudative lesions were associated with a greater rate of small vessels branching and peripheral arcades and non‐exudative lesions with a dead‐tree appearance. On an attempt to eliminate subjectivity of qualitative evaluation, there has been a crescent effort to obtain quantitative features on neovascular networks, and the study of novel imaging biomarkers for nAMD disease activity has become a hot topic in research. The aim of this conference is to evaluate the current indications for FA use in nAMD and to provide an update on subjective and objective OCTA biomarkers in daily clinical practice.
What is the relationship between eye drops and women in science?
Authors: Kolko Miriam
Published: December 2019

Despite the multifactorial nature of glaucoma, it is evident that treatments to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP) decrease the rate of glaucomatous progression. Within the available treatments, IOP‐lowering eye drops are the far most common strategy. In 2011, the most prescribed anti‐glaucomatous eye drops, Xalatan, went out of patent and since then multiple generic eye drops has entered the market. Although it is an obvious benefit to eradicate the monopoly, the minimum requirements for the introduction of generic eye drops are worrying. Thus, increasing evidence have shown significant differences between generic anti‐glaucomatous eye drops and their brand name products. Moreover, differences in‐between the generic eye drops exist. To complicate it even more, generic Xalatan has changed and is now different from its original form. Overall, it is a jungle and only by improving research, education, and behaviour, the availability of the various treatment options will be rewarding. With a humorous, but serious, angle, the jungle of current available anti‐glaucomatous eye drops will be compared to the challenging career path of women in science.
"My career in ophthalmology" ‐ by a non‐ophthalmologist
Authors: Kotecha Aachal
Published: December 2019

Dr. Aachal Kotecha PhD is an optometrist, whose research career started back in 1995 when she joined the team led by Professor (Sir) Peng Tee Khaw investigating antimetabolites in glaucoma filtration surgery at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology/Moorfields Eye Hospital. Since then her career has taken a very winding path, from being a senior lecturer at the City University, London, to a Senior Research Associate at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, and Principal Optometrist in the Glaucoma Service at Moorfields Eye Hospital. She has now left academia and the NHS and works as a Clinical Development Scientist at Roche Products Ltd, UK, in late stage drug development.

When asked to participate in this symposium, she asked ‘why me? I haven’t really achieved anything’ only to be given a lecture by the organizer about how that very question was so typical of women in science.

She will share her experiences of working in research and academia, the challenges and joys it has brought along the way, and about her transition to industry.
Nystagmus videoocular mouvements recording in children with retinal diseases
Authors: Robert Matthieu
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Nystagmus is the main sign leading to the diagnosis of a retinal dystrophy in infants. It is often simply reported and described as a “nystagmus”, as if any nystagmus in an infant requested the same workup. Is it relevant to classify the nystagmus in an infant with a retinal disease? How can oculomotor recordings help doing so?

Objective

To answer these questions in a synthetic way.

Methods

Literature review using Pubmed and Google Scholar; chosen clinical case series.

Results

Three distinct varieties of nystagmus can be associated with retinal dysfunctions in children: infantile nystagmus syndrome, purely pendular nystagmus, and positional intermittent upbeat nystagmus. While some retinal stationary dysfunctions and dystrophies are specifically associated with one variety of nystagmus, most of them overlap across two varieties. However, it appears that the nature of the nystagmus does correlate with clinical and electroretinographic markers of severity of the retinal dysfunction.

Conclusions

Formal oculomotor recordings therefore could be used as a non‐invasive, additional marker of the degree of retinal preservation, helping assess and better select the patients who could benefit from novel therapies for retinal dystrophies.
Allopurinol reduces oxidative stress and activates Nrf2/p62 to attenuate diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats
Authors: Luo Jierong , Yan Dan , Li Sisi , Liu Shiming , Zeng Fei , Cheung Chi Wai , Liu Hong , Irwin Michael G. , Huang Huansen , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: December 2019

Allopurinol (ALP) attenuates oxidative stress and diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), but the mechanism is unclear. Activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) following the disassociation with its repressor Keap1 under oxidative stress can maintain inner redox homeostasis and attenuate DCM with concomitant attenuation of autophagy. We postulated that ALP treatment may activate Nrf2 to mitigate autophagy over‐activation and consequently attenuate DCM. Streptozotocin‐induced type 1 diabetic rats were untreated or treated with ALP (100 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks and terminated after heart function measurements by echocardiography and pressure‐volume conductance system. Cardiomyocyte H9C2 cells infected with Nrf2 siRNA or not were incubated with high glucose (HG, 25 mmol/L) concomitantly with ALP treatment. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase, 15‐F2t‐Isoprostane and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured with colorimetric enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. ROS, apoptosis, was assessed by dihydroethidium staining and TUNEL, respectively. The Western blot and qRT‐PCR were used to assess protein and mRNA variations. Diabetic rats showed significant reductions in heart rate (HR), left ventricular eject fraction (LVEF), stroke work (SW) and cardiac output (CO), left ventricular end‐systolic volume (LVVs) as compared to non‐diabetic control and ALP improved or normalized HR, LVEF, SW, CO and LVVs in diabetic rats (all P < .05). Hearts of diabetic rats displayed excessive oxidative stress manifested as increased levels of 15‐F2t‐Isoprostane and superoxide anion production, increased apoptotic cell death and cardiomyocytes autophagy that were concomitant with reduced expressions of Nrf2, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and Keap1. ALP reverted all the above‐mentioned diabetes‐induced biochemical changes except that it did not affect the levels of Keap1. In vitro, ALP increased Nrf2 and reduced the hyperglycaemia‐induced increases of H9C2 cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, oxidative stress, apoptosis and autophagy, and enhanced cellular viability. Nrf2 gene silence cancelled these protective effects of ALP in H9C2 cells. Activation of Nrf2 subsequent to the suppression of Keap1 and the mitigation of autophagy over‐activation may represent major mechanisms whereby ALP attenuates DCM.
Platinum‐based combination chemotherapy triggers cancer cell death through induction of BNIP3 and ROS, but not autophagy
Authors: Chung Ling‐Yen , Tang Shye‐Jye , Wu Yi‐Ching , Yang Kai‐Chi , Huang Hui‐Ju , Sun Guang‐Huan , Sun Kuang‐Hui
Published: December 2019

These days, cancer can still not be effectively cured because cancer cells readily develop resistance to anticancer drugs. Therefore, an effective combination of drugs with different mechanisms to prevent drug resistance has become a very important issue. Furthermore, the BH3‐only protein BNIP3 is involved in both apoptotic and autophagic cell death. In this study, lung cancer cells were treated with a chemotherapy drug alone or in combination to identify the role of BNIP3 and autophagy in combination chemotherapy for treating cancer. Our data revealed that various combinational treatments of two drugs could increase cancer cell death and cisplatin in combination with rapamycin or LBH589, which triggered the cell cycle arrest at the S phase. Cells with autophagosome and pEGFP‐LC3 puncta increased when treated with drugs. To confirm the role of autophagy, cancer cells were pre‐treated with the autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA). 3‐MA sensitized cancer cells to chemotherapy drug treatments. These results suggest that autophagy may be responsible for cell survival in combination chemotherapy for lung cancer. Moreover, BNIP3 was induced and localized in mitochondria when cells were treated with drugs. The transfection of a dominant negative transmembrane deletion construct of BNIP3 (BNIP3ΔTM) and treatment of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitor suppressed chemo drug‐induced cell death. These results indicate that BNIP3 and ROS may be involved in combination chemo drug‐induced cell death. However, chemo drug‐induced autophagy may protect cancer cells from drug cytotoxicity. As a result, inhibiting autophagy may improve the effects of combination chemotherapy when treating lung cancer.
Endothelial S1pr1 regulates pressure overload‐induced cardiac remodelling through AKT‐eNOS pathway
Authors: Liu Xiuxiang , Wu Jinjin , Zhu Chenying , Liu Jie , Chen Xiaoli , Zhuang Tao , Kuang Yashu , Wang Yanfang , Hu Hao , Yu Ping , Fan Huimin , Zhang Yuzhen , Liu Zhongmin , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2019

Cardiac vascular microenvironment is crucial for cardiac remodelling during the process of heart failure. Sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) tightly regulates vascular homeostasis via its receptor, S1pr1. We therefore hypothesize that endothelial S1pr1 might be involved in pathological cardiac remodelling. In this study, heart failure was induced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) operation. S1pr1 expression is significantly increased in microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) of post‐TAC hearts. Endothelial‐specific deletion of S1pr1 significantly aggravated cardiac dysfunction and deteriorated cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in myocardium. In vitro experiments demonstrated that S1P/S1pr1 praxis activated AKT/eNOS signalling pathway, leading to more production of nitric oxide (NO), which is an essential cardiac protective factor. Inhibition of AKT/eNOS pathway reversed the inhibitory effect of EC‐S1pr1‐overexpression on angiotensin II (AngII)‐induced cardiomyocyte (CM) hypertrophy, as well as on TGF‐β‐mediated cardiac fibroblast proliferation and transformation towards myofibroblasts. Finally, pharmacological activation of S1pr1 ameliorated TAC‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, leading to an improvement in cardiac function. Together, our results suggest that EC‐S1pr1 might prevent the development of pressure overload‐induced heart failure via AKT/eNOS pathway, and thus pharmacological activation of S1pr1 or EC‐targeting S1pr1‐AKT‐eNOS pathway could provide a future novel therapy to improve cardiac function during heart failure development.
Risk of mycosis fungoides in psoriatic patients: a critical review
Authors: Biondo G. , Cerroni L. , Brunasso A.M.G. , Sola S. , Cota C. , Javor S. , Massone C.
Published: December 2019

Psoriasis has been controversially associated with risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and mycosis fungoides (MF). Also patients who developed MF after systemic treatment for psoriasis have been reported, and some authors suggested that the association between MF and psoriasis is not infrequent. We performed an extensive literature review in order to examine the risk of developing MF in psoriatic patients with a systematic search of the English‐language databases. An increased risk for lymphoma overall in psoriatic patients has been found only by three out of seven studies. The risk of developing MF in psoriatic patients has been investigated by different studies in different populations and with different methodologies presenting bias and limitations, and it seems reasonable that misclassification between psoriasis and MF may explain the association reported. In contrast to the large number of psoriatic patients treated with biologicals, only 27 case reports of MF after biological therapy for psoriasis have been reported, and in 10 cases, the initial psoriasis diagnoses were then revised as MF. A true association between MF and psoriasis is possible, but the real incidence and prevalence are still unknown. The reported higher risk of developing MF in psoriatic patients should be reconsidered in the light of the bias of misclassification and the low magnitude reported in previous studies. There is not enough evidence to support a causal relation among biological therapies and MF in psoriatic patients.
Ulcus vulvae acutum Lipschütz: a systematic literature review and a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm
Authors: Sadoghi B. , Stary G. , Wolf P. , Komericki P.
Published: December 2019

The case report literature on ulcus vulvae acutum Lipschütz (UVAL) is scant, and specific guidelines on its diagnosis and treatment are lacking. Our study's aim was to perform a systematic literature review of UVAL in order to formulate a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. Using the PRISMA criteria, we searched PubMed and MEDLINE for the terms ‘ulcus vulvae acutum’, ‘Lipschütz ulcer’ and ‘acute genital ulcer AND vulva’. We extracted relevant data on ‘type of article’, ‘patients’ age’, ‘amount and localization of ulcers’, ‘presence of flu‐like symptoms’, ‘prior sexual contacts’, ‘diagnostic workup’ (including histology, blood count and serology such as Epstein–Barr virus testing) and ‘treatment/outcome’. Data were meta‐analysed and comparative analyses were discussed in order to create a diagnostic algorithm and recommendations for management. Twenty‐one publications reporting a total of 60 cases of UVAL were included for analysis. On this basis, we formulated a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm defined by two major and four minor criteria. The major criteria were (i) acute onset of one or more painful ulcerous lesions in the vulvar region and (ii) exclusion of infectious and non‐infectious causes for the ulcer. The minor criteria were (i) localization of ulcer at vestibule or labia minora, (ii) no sexual intercourse ever (i.e. patient was a virgin) or within the last 3 months, (iii) flu‐like symptoms and/or (iv) systemic infection within 2–4 weeks prior to onset of vulvar ulcer. Use of a symptom‐based treatment algorithm based on our proposed major and minor criteria will improve the diagnosis and management of UVAL.
Effect of staining and repeated firing on the surface and optical properties of lithium disilicate
Authors: Miranda Jean S. , Barcellos Aline S. P. , MartinelliLobo Carolina M. , Caneppele Taciana M. F. , Amaral Marina , Kimpara Estevão T.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Evaluate the effect of staining and repeated firings on color, translucency and surface proprieties of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate (LD).

Material and Methods

One hundred eighty LD discs were made (ISO 6872) and distributed in different groups (n = 20): control (CO)—no treatment; single‐step characterization (SC)—crystallization and staining fired together; and double step characterization (DC)—crystallization and then staining. The samples were submitted to two, four, or six firings, resulting in nine groups: COII, COIV, COVI, SCII, SCIV, SCVI, DCII, DCIV, and DCVI. The color and translucency were measured by a reflectance spectrophotometer. Surface roughness (Ra) and Vickers nano‐hardness were also measured. ANOVA and Tukey statistical tests were used (α = .05).

Results

Only CO and DC demonstrated significant color alterations (ΔE00 > 1.8). SC and DC did not show changes in translucency by the number of firings (P > .05); however, for CO (P = .02) these values increased. Nano‐hardness was similar in all groups (P > .05). Ra values indicated differences due to the type of characterization (SC presented the highest values) and number of firings (CO and DC groups) (P < .01).

Conclusion

SC promoted color, translucency, and roughness stability after repeated firings.

Clinical Significance

The single characterization technic in CAD/CAM lithium disilicate presents good color, translucency, and hardness stability, which promote predictable results to monolithic restoration.
TheCyphomyrusMyers 1960 (Osteoglossiformes: Mormyridae) of the Lufira basin (Upper Lualaba: DR Congo): A generic reassignment and the description of a new species
Authors: Mukweze Mulelenu Christian , Katemo Manda Bauchet , Decru Eva , Chocha Manda Auguste , Vreven Emmanuel
Published: December 2019

Within a comparative morphological framework,Hippopotamyrus aelsbroecki, only known from the holotype originating from Lubumbashi, most probably the Lubumbashi River, a left bank subaffluent of the Luapula River, is reallocated to the genusCyphomyrus. This transfer is motivated by the fact thatH. aelsbroeckipossesses a rounded or vaulted predorsal profile, an insertion of the dorsal fin far anterior to the level of the insertion of the anal fin, and a compact, laterally compressed and deep body. In addition, a new species ofCyphomyrusis described from the Lufira basin,Cyphomyrus lufirae.Cyphomyrus lufiraewas collected in large parts of the Middle Lufira, upstream of the Kyubo Falls and just downstream of these falls in the lower Lufira and its nearby left bank affluent, the Luvilombo River. The new species is distinguished from all its congeners, that is, firstly, fromC. aelsbroecki,C. cubangoensisandC. discorhynchus, by a low number of dorsal fin rays, 27‐32 (vs.higher, 36 (37), 34 (33‐41) an 38 (38‐40), respectively) and, secondly, fromC. aelsbroecki,C. cubangoensis, andC. discorhynchusby a large prepelvic distance, 41.0–43.8%LS(vs.shorter, 39.7%, 38.9–39.1% and 37.0–41.0%LS, respectively). The description of yet another new species for the Upemba National Park and the Kundelungu National Park further highlights their importance for fish protection and conservation in the area. Hence, there is an urgent need for the full integration of fish into the management plans of these parks.
Separation of serum proteins and micellar casein from skim goat milk by pilot‐scale 0.05‐μm pore‐sized ceramic membrane at 50°C
Authors: Yang Baoyu , Zhang Shuwen , Pang Xiaoyang , Lu Jing , Wu Zheng , Yue Yuanchun , Wang Tong , Jiang Zhumao , Lv Jiaping
Published: December 2019

The fractionation of serum protein (SP) and micellar casein (CN) from skim milk can be accomplished using microfiltration (MF). The objective of this study was to determine the removal of total SP using a 0.05‐μm ceramic membrane at each stage of production, as well as the composition of retentates and permeates for a three‐stage, 3×, discontinuous bleed‐and‐feed process. The average flux of ceramic membrane obtained from our results was 96.25 kg/m2 per hour. The cumulative removal rate of actual SP is 96.2% at Stages 1, 2, and 3 (58.1%, 25.0%, and 13.0%, respectively), closely related to the theoretical value of 96%. In addition, the rate of removal of lactose, ash, calcium, and phosphorus were 86.44%, 82.68%, 34.9%, and 55.0%, respectively. The water flux of the membrane reduced by 55.57% after MF, while membrane flux recovered to 99.21% after cleaning with 2% (w/v) sodium hydroxide and 1% (v/v) nitric acid solution. Moreover, permeates and retentates were concentrated by vacuum and spray drier in order to obtain serum and micelle CN powder having protein contents of 10.19% and 75.57%, respectively.

Practical applications

This article proposes high‐efficiency fractionation of macromolecules and small molecules by membrane technology using skim milk as raw material. Permeate was used to produce high‐quality SP products, which was essentially sterile and fat‐free, and had better solubility, foaming, and gelation than cheese whey protein. And retentates can be directly used for micelle CN powder or cheese production. The composition of the cheese produced was similar to that of traditional cheese. It improves the quality of the products and reduces environmental pollution. In addition, the study also provided a theoretical and applied basis for the membrane separation process of goat milk and the research and development of functional goat milk‐based ingredient.
Instruments for assessing nurses’ palliative care knowledge and skills in specialised care setting: An integrative review
Authors: Soikkeli‐Jalonen Anu , Stolt Minna , Hupli Maija , Lemetti Terhi , Kennedy Catriona , Kydd Angela , Haavisto Elina
Published: December 2019

Aims and objectives

To examine the content and reported psychometric properties of instruments for assessing nurses’ palliative care knowledge and skills in specialised healthcare units.

Background

Knowledge of palliative care, and competence in the delivery of care, is essential. Assessment of competence is an important means of evaluating the knowledge and skills of practitioners in order to improve the quality of care provided for patients and their families.

Design

An integrative review.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in November 2018 in five databases: CINAHL, PubMed (Medline), Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science. The quality assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) Checklist for Analytical Cross‐Sectional Studies. The data were analysed using content analysis. PRISMA guidelines were followed to ensure explicit reporting.

Results

Overall, 5,413 studies were identified and 23 met the inclusion criteria. Nurses’ knowledge and skills, as assessed by the instruments, were as follows: (a) care for the patient, (b) care for the patient's family and (c) professional requirements. Ten instruments were identified assessing nurses’ knowledge and skills through knowledge tests and skill evaluation self‐tests. The psychometric properties of the instruments were reported to varying degrees, mainly focusing on internal consistency and content validation.

Conclusions

Nurses’ knowledge and skills were seen to contribute to the holistic care of the patient and his or her family, and the possession of adequate information and skills is essential when dealing with death and dying. The instruments are commonly available and potentially reliable, although reliability must be determined with caution, so validation studies in other cultures are recommended.

Relevance to clinical practice

These results could be utilised to improve the quality of palliative care by evaluating the knowledge and skills of nursing staff or when considering the needs of palliative care education.
Development and characterization of novel microsatellite markers in Puccinia striiformis f.sp. tritici and their transferability in Puccinia species
Authors: Savadi Siddanna , Prasad Pramod , Bhardwaj Subhash Chander , Rathore Ruchi , Sharma Kiran , Lal Kashyap Prem , Gangwar Om Prakash , Kumar Subodh
Published: December 2019

Puccinia striiformis f.sp. tritici (Pst) and P. striiformis f.sp. hordei (Psh) causing stripe rust disease in wheat and barley, respectively, are two devastating phytopathogens. Microsatellite/simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers are increasingly being utilized for analysis of genetic diversity, diagnosis, population structure and possible migratory routes of plant pathogens. In the current study, novel polymorphic SSR markers were designed for Pst using the genomic sequences of PST‐78 isolate. A total of 1,191 SSR motifs, comprising 30% each of di‐ and tri‐nucleotide type of repeats, 17% of penta‐nucleotide, 15% of tetra‐nucleotide and 8% of hexa‐nucleotide repeats, were detected through in silico scanning of PST‐78 genomic sequences. Polymorphism was detected by nine of the 50 designed SSRs (PsSSRs) in seven stripe rust pathotypes of wheat and barley. The mean number of alleles per SSR locus, mean polymorphism information content (PIC), mean heterozygosity, mean major allele frequency (MAF) and mean gene diversity were 2.33, 0.34, 0.33, 0.71 and 0.40, respectively. The dendrogram analysis suggested that newly developed PsSSR markers could distinguish stripe rust pathotypes based on their virulence phenotype. Further, the cross‐genera and cross‐species amplification test of these markers in 14 different rust pathotypes revealed that 9 PsSSRs are capable of amplification in Pst species infecting wild grass, followed by 6 PsSSRs in Pt, 3 PsSSRs in Pgt, 1 PsSSRs in Puccinia species on barberry and Melampsora lini. Thus, the transferability of PsSSRs to other species reduced with increasing genetic distance of target species. These newly designed SSR markers expand the available Pst SSR marker resources and allow better genetic studies.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and serum profile of broiler chicks fed on housefly maggot meal as a replacement of soybean meal
Authors: Elahi Usman , Ma You‐biao , Wu Shu‐geng , Wang Jing , Zhang Hai‐jun , Qi Guang‐hai
Published: December 2019

A study was conducted to invesstigate the housefly maggot meal (HMM) as an alternative protein source to replace the soybean meal in broiler chick's diet. A total of 720 1‐day‐old male broiler chicks were divided into three groups and fed diets formulated with HMM to replace soybean meal at the rate of 0%, 4% and 8%. The study lasted for 42 days in two phases. Results showed that HMM addition did not markedly affect body weight, average daily body weight gain and average daily feed intake of the broiler chicks. Feed conversion ratio increased linearly (1–21 days) in starter or quadratically (22–42 days) in the grower phase. HMM non‐significantly increased the feed intake and body weight during the grower phase. Slight changes were observed for decrease of blood biochemical indices in the platelets (day 21), and alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme (day 42), and increase for red blood cells, packed cell volume, total protein and uric acid on day 42; however, the fluctuations were within the physiological range. Non‐significant effects were observed for carcass composition and meat quality, except that HMM numerically reduced the shear force of breast muscle (linear, p = .058). These results are the strong evidence that HMM can be used as an alternative protein source at 8% in broiler chick's diet without any adverse effect on chick's performance.
Between Literature and Psychology: Konishi Masutaro (1862–1940) in the History of Russo–Japanese Scientific Connections
Authors: Maslov Kirill
Published: December 2019

The aim of this paper is to describe some episodes from the life of Konishi Masutaro (1862–1940), a Japanese scholar and psychologist who obtained his theological and psychological education in Russia and who played a role in the development of psychological science in Russia. Masutaro is mostly known as a translator of Lev (Leo) Tolstoy, and the psychological side of his biography is not well studied. Masutaro's life and work in Russia occurred in the context of great political and cultural changes. He was one of the first authors who translated fragments from Eastern philosophy (works by Laozi and Confucius) into the Russian language. Personal and scientific details of the life of this educated scholar are also given in the present paper.
Long non‐coding RNA and mRNA expression profiles in peri‐implantitis vs periodontitis
Authors: Liu Yudong , Liu Qifan , Li Zhipeng , Acharya Aneesha , Chen Danying , Chen Zetao , Mattheos Nikos , Chen Zhuofan , Huang Baoxin
Published: December 2019

Background and Objective

Peri‐implantitis is a biofilm‐mediated infectious disease that results in progressive loss of implant‐supporting bone. As compared to its analogue periodontitis, peri‐implantitis is generally known to be more aggressive, with comparatively rapid progression and less predictable treatment outcomes, especially when advanced. An understanding of molecular mechanisms underpinning the similarities and differences between peri‐implantitis and periodontitis is essential to develop novel management strategies. This study aimed to compare long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression profiles between peri‐implantitis and periodontitis.

Methods

Inflamed soft tissue from peri‐implantitis and periodontitis lesions, and healthy gingival tissue controls were analyzed by microarray. Cluster graphs, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and pathway analysis were performed. Quantitative real‐time PCR was employed to verify microarray results. The expression levels of RANKL and OPG in the three tissue types were also evaluated, using qRT‐PCR. Coding non‐coding (CNC) network analyses were performed.

Results

Microarray analyses revealed 1079 lncRNAs and 1003 mRNAs as differentially expressed in peri‐implantitis when compared to periodontitis. The cyclooxygenase‐2 pathway was the most up‐regulated biological process in peri‐implantitis as compared to periodontitis, whereas hemidesmosome assembly was the most down‐regulated pathway. Osteoclast differentiation was relatively up‐regulated, and RANKL/OPG ratio was higher in peri‐implantitis than in periodontitis.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that peri‐implantitis and periodontitis exhibit significantly different lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles, suggesting that osteoclast differentiation‐related pathways are comparatively more active in peri‐implantitis. These data highlight potential molecular targets for periodontitis and peri‐implantitis therapy development.
Questioning Bonaventure's Augustinianism?: On the Noetic Effects of Sin
Authors: Sutanto Nathaniel Gray
Published: December 2019

Recent scholarship suggests that Bonaventure breaks with the Augustinian tradition, in part, by affirming that the mind's cognitive powers remain fully activated even after the fall. I suggest that this claim concerning Bonaventure's denial of the noetic effects of sin should be reconsidered. I provide evidence to show that Bonaventure did, indeed, affirm that the intellect was heavily damaged by the fall and that Bonaventure affirmed two at first seemingly paradoxical propositions: (1) the intellect is indeed damaged by the fall, and (2) that God remains the first thing known by the intellect. It is precisely Bonaventure's coupling of these two seemingly paradoxical propositions that have led some to underplay Bonaventure's affirmation of the noetic effects of sin. In other words, Bonaventure's model opens up the possibility of affirming that the results of the noetic effects of sin consists not in ignorance of God simpliciter, but in a paradoxical state of knowing-yet-not-knowing God, akin to Paul's account of Romans 1.
Update on pediatric gastroparesis: A review of the published literature and recommendations for future research
Authors: Kovacic Katja , Elfar Walaa , Rosen John M. , Yacob Desale , Raynor Jennifer , Mostamand Shikib , Punati Jaya , Fortunato John E. , Saps Miguel
Published: December 2019

Background

Due to scarcity of scientific literature on pediatric gastroparesis, there is a need to summarize current evidence and identify areas requiring further research. The aim of this study was to provide an evidence‐based review of the available literature on the prevalence, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of pediatric gastroparesis.

Methods

A search of the literature was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines with the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts for eligibility.

Key Results

Our search yielded 1085 original publications, 135 of which met inclusion criteria. Most articles were of retrospective study design. Only 12 randomized controlled trials were identified, all of which were in infants. The prevalence of pediatric gastroparesis is unknown. Gastroparesis may be suspected based on clinical symptoms although these are often non‐specific. The 4‐hour nuclear scintigraphy scan remains gold standard for diagnosis despite lack of pediatric normative comparison data. Therapeutic approaches include dietary modifications, prokinetic drugs, and postpyloric enteral tube feeds. For refractory cases, intrapyloric botulinum toxin and surgical interventions such as gastric electrical stimulation may be warranted. Most interventions still lack rigorous supportive data.

Conclusions

Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric gastroparesis are challenging due to paucity of published evidence. Larger and more rigorous clinical trials are necessary to improve outcomes.
HOS15 and HDA9 negatively regulate immunity through histone deacetylation of intracellular immune receptor NLR genes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Leiyun , Chen Xiangsong , Wang Zhixue , Sun Qi , Hong Anna , Zhang Aiqin , Zhong Xuehua , Hua Jian
Published: December 2019

Plant immune responses need to be tightly controlled for growth–defense balance. The mechanism underlying this tight control is not fully understood. Here we identify epigenetic regulation of nucleotide‐binding leucine rich repeat or Nod‐Like Receptor (NLR) genes as an important mechanism for immune responses.

Through a sensitized genetic screen and molecular studies, we identified and characterized HOS15 and its associated protein HDA9 as negative regulators of immunity and NLR gene expression.

The loss‐of‐function of HOS15 or HDA9 confers enhanced resistance to pathogen infection accompanied with increased expression of one‐third of the 207 NLR genes in Arabidopsis thaliana. HOS15 and HDA9 are physically associated with some of these NLR genes and repress their expression likely through reducing the acetylation of H3K9 at these loci. In addition, these NLR genes are repressed by HOS15 under both pathogenic and nonpathogenic conditions but by HDA9 only under infection condition.

Together, this study uncovers a previously uncharacterized histone deacetylase complex in plant immunity and highlights the importance of epigenetic regulation of NLR genes in modulating growth–defense balance.