bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal decisions and coordination strategy of a capital-constrained supply chain under customer return and supplier subsidy
Authors: Bi Gongbing , Chen Ping , Fei Yalei
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to explore impacts of financing and supplier subsidy on capital-constrained retailer and the value of returns subsidy contract under a situation where the retailer makes joint operations and finance decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers a two-level supply chain, including a retailer and a supplier. Facing problems of capital constraints and even customer returns, the newsvendor-like retailer orders from a well-capitalized supplier. The supplier allows the retailer a delay in payment and provides a subsidy contract to alleviate its problems if it is profitable. Considering their difference of initial capital status, the retailer is assumed to be Follower of Stackelberg Game and the supplier is the Leader.

Findings

The supplier return subsidy contract has some merits for both of partners in the chain. And it does not coordinate the supply chain when the retailer has enough initial capital; however, when the retailer is capital constrained, it does. In addition, the retailer’s initial capital level significantly affects the supplier’s subsidy decision.

Research limitations/implications

Return rate is simplified to a fixed proportion of completed demand. In addition, trade credit is only financing source in this paper, and other types of financing methods, such as bank credit, can be taken too.

Originality/value

This paper first incorporates trade credit financing and customer returns into a modeling framework to investigate the capital-constrained retailer’s joint operations and finance decisions and the value of supplier’s subsidy contract.
Information technology, knowledge management and human resource management
Authors: Turulja Lejla , Bajgoric Nijaz
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Drawing on dynamic capability view, this study aims to offer a conceptual framework to clarify the nature of the effects of firm’s information technology (IT) capability, knowledge management (KM) capability and human resource management (HRM) capability on organizational business performance. IT is the driver that changes all aspects of doing business in the digital era, while both knowledge and human resources (HR) are being increasingly regarded as key levers of competitive advantage in today’s global, dynamic and complex business environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey methodology was used to collect data. To clarify the relationships between IT capability, KM capability and organizational business performance, the qualitative literature review has been conducted. This review has revealed the three structural models presenting possible interactions between observed constructs. Confirmatory factor analysis has been used for the evaluation of proposed measurement models while structural equation modeling has been used for structural models’ assessments and hypotheses testing.

Findings

IT capability enhances HRM capability which enhances KM capability. As a result, KM capability together with IT capability enhances organizational business performance. In addition, there is an interaction effect of KM capability and HRM capability on business performance.

Research limitations/implications

First, the sample is based on the emerging economy firms. Second, the use of a self-rating performance measure may be a limitation of the study. Third, the data are not completely normally distributed. Fourth, specificities of different industries were not the subject of analysis in this paper. This should be considered in the interpretation and understanding of the results.

Practical implications

From managerial point of view, the paper indicates what managers can do to master their dynamic capabilities, especially those relevant to the business in the digital era. Firms are urged to develop and improve their capabilities to face dynamic environment and intense competition, as well as business globalization. However, to improve certain capability, firms should develop others as well because of their interconnectedness.

Originality/value

The main academic contribution of this study is reflected through the development of the integrative model which is aimed at identifying the interrelationships among IT, KM, HRM and business performance. The results indicate the importance of observing interconnections between the firms’ various capabilities to verify the premise of the dynamic capability view. This paper identified relationships between most prominent firm’s resources for the digital era: knowledge, HR and IT. The results show causes and effects of relationships between capabilities related to these resources.
Larvicidal potency of selected xerophytic plant extracts on Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Abutaha Nael , Al‐Mekhlafi Fahd A. , Al‐Keridis Lamya Ahmed , Farooq Muhammad , Nasr Fahd A. , Al‐Wadaan Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Chemical insecticides released into the environment may have adverse biological effects. Therefore, there is a need for ecofriendly insecticides for mosquito control. Xerophytic plant extracts that may provide more ecofriendly active component were evaluated against Culex pipiens 4th instars. Plant extracts prepared using different solvents with a Soxhlet apparatus and different concentrations were tested against Culex pipiens larvae. The effects were observed at 24 h and 72 h intervals and LD50 and LD90 values determined. Chloroform (CHCl3) and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extracts of Althaea ludwigii were the most effective against Cx. pipiens 4th instars, but were highly dependent on extract concentrations and exposure time. Results suggest that A. ludwigii extracts contain bioactive compounds, such as phenols and saponins, that may provide effective Cx. pipiens larval control. However, the extract was found to be toxic to zebrafish larvae, and may be toxic to other aquatic fauna. Further studies to determine the active components and toxicity to other fauna are needed.
What do women want? Women want services tailored to their needs
Authors: Marsh Jeanne C.
Published: March 2018

Commentary to: Do women with complex alcohol and other drug use histories want women‐only residential treatment?
Fine structure of the canal neuromasts of the lateral line system in the adult zebrafish
Authors: Laurà R. , Abbate F. , Germanà G. P. , Montalbano G. , Germanà A. , Levanti M.
Published: March 2018

The mechanosensory lateral line system of fish is responsible for several functions such as balance, hearing, and orientation in water flow and is formed by neuromast receptor organs distributed on head, trunk and tail. Superficial and canal neuromasts can be distinguished for localization and morphological differences. Several information is present regarding the superficial neuromasts of zebrafish and other teleosts especially during larval and juvenile stages, while not as numerous data are so far available about the ultrastructural characteristics of the canal neuromasts in adult zebrafish. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate by transmission electron microscopy the ultrastructural aspects of cells present in the canal neuromasts. Besides the typical cellular aspects of the neuromast, different cellular types of hair cells were observed that could be identified as developing hair cells during the physiological turnover. The knowledge of the observed cellular types of the canal neuromasts and their origin could give a contribution to studies carried out on adult zebrafish used as model in neurological and non‐neurological damages, such as deafness and vestibular disorders.
Exploring treatment decision‐making in cancer management for rural residents: Patient and provider perspectives on a recently established regional radiotherapy service
Authors: Birch Eleanor M. , Haigh Margaret M. , Baxi Siddhartha , Lyford Marilyn , Cheetham Shelley , Shahid Shaouli , Thompson Sandra C.
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine stakeholders' views of how the establishment of the South West Radiation Oncology Service in Bunbury, Western Australia, has affected treatment decision‐making, and the extent to which patients are involved in the decision‐making process.

Methods

Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were undertaken with 21 service providers involved in the treatment and care of people with cancer, and 17 adults diagnosed with cancer who opted to undergo radiotherapy (RT) treatment at the Service. Data were subject to thematic analysis using the qualitative data analysis software NVivo 10.

Results

Patients were overwhelmingly positive about their experiences at the Service, praising the quality of the care provided and noting the convenience associated with receiving treatment locally. Most patients reported feeling involved in decision‐making, but tended to rely on and generally adopt advice from medical professionals regarding type and location of treatment. Although service providers in the region had become more aware of the regional RT service and referrals had increased, some patients continued to travel to the metropolitan area for treatment. Reasons identified for this included the need for more specialized RT treatment and the more extensive range of allied health services offered.

Conclusion

Increased convenience and a lower financial burden are key reasons why rural cancer patients prefer treatment at a regional RT service rather than travelling to metropolitan centers. These factors highlight the need for ongoing improvement in access to local RT services so that disparities in cancer outcomes between rural and metropolitan patients are reduced.
Management of uterine ectopic pregnancy – local vs. systemic methotrexate
Authors: Koch Marianne , Schwab Stephanie , Meyer Elias , Montanari Eliana , Bader Yvonne , Ott Johannes , Helmy Samir
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare ultrasound‐guided local methotrexate (MTX) vs. systemic methotrexate in uterine ectopic pregnancy regarding the beta human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) clearance duration.

Material and methods

Patients with interstitial pregnancy, cervical pregnancy or cesarean scar pregnancy were included. Methotrexate was administered locally ultrasound‐guided (25 mg methotrexate fixed dose) or systemically (intramuscular; 50 mg/m2 body weight). Beta hCG clearance duration in days formed the main outcome measure.

Results

Forty‐six patients with uterine ectopic pregnancy were included. The mean estimated beta hCG clearance duration was 29.2 days longer in patients with local methotrexate compared with systemic methotrexate (64.7 vs. 31.5 days, respectively; p = 0.026). There was no significant difference between local vs. systemic methotrexate regarding adverse events such as bleeding (p = 0.376), pain (p = 0.146) or secondary surgery (p = 0.631). There was no association of initial beta hCG levels (p = 0.746), initial progesterone levels (p = 0.870) or patients’ age (p = 0.604) and the beta hCG clearance duration. No significant difference in beta hCG clearance duration comparing local methotrexate injection with aspiration vs. local methotrexate injection without aspiration could be found (mean 49.4 and 71.6 days, respectively, p = 0.225).

Conclusions

In patients with uterine ectopic pregnancies, the mean estimated beta hCG clearance duration was 29.2 days longer when applying local methotrexate compared with systemic methotrexate.
Coptisine, a natural alkaloid from Coptidis Rhizoma, inhibits plasmodium falciparum dihydroorotate dehydrogenase
Authors: Lang Li , Hu Qian , Wang Jingyuan , Liu Zehui , Huang Jin , Lu Weiqiang , Huang Ying
Published: March 2018

Plasmodium falciparum dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (PfDHODH) is a promising drug target for antimalarial chemotherapy. In our continuous efforts to develop more potent PfDHODH inhibitors, a unique library of active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been collected and was screened in this study. Through the initial screening, we found that coptisine, a natural alkaloid from TCM Coptidis Rhizoma, was a novel and potent inhibitor of PfDHODH with an IC50 value of 1.83 ± 0.08 μm. At the same time, enzyme kinetic analysis using Lineweaver‐Burk plot indicated that coptisine is an uncompetitive inhibitor for PfDHODH. Thermal shift assay and molecular docking simulation research reveal that coptisine is capable of binding with PfDHODH. Moreover, coptisine exhibits weak inhibition activity against human DHODH, indicating that coptisine is a selective inhibitor of PfDHODH. Taken together, our study highlights the potential of active ingredients in TCM as valuable resource for discovering novel chemical scaffolds for PfDHODH.
“We are caregivers, too”: Foster siblings' difficulties, strengths, and needs for support
Authors: Raineri Maria Luisa , Calcaterra Valentina , Folgheraiter Fabio
Published: March 2018

Children's foster care is practised and studied in many parts of the world, but little attention is paid to foster parents' birth children, despite their right to participate in a process that concerns their lives and despite the role they play in foster care. Drawing on qualitative data collected from 15 foster siblings and 14 foster parents, this paper presents birth children's experiences with the beginning of foster care, their perceptions of the positive and negative aspects of living with a foster child, and their suggestions for foster parents, foster children, and professionals. The data reveal that birth children feel engaged in a caregiver role; therefore, they need guidance with regard to this role. However, social workers and other professionals do not appear to fully recognize this role. Implications for practice are discussed.
Mobile phone applications and self‐management of diabetes: A systematic review with meta‐analysis, meta‐regression of 21 randomized trials and GRADE
Authors: Hou Can , Xu Qian , Diao Sha , Hewitt Jonathan , Li Jiayuan , Carter Ben
Published: March 2018

We conducted a systematic review with meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of diabetes mobile phone applications. A total of 1550 participants from 21 studies were included. For type 1 diabetes, a significant 0.49% reduction in HbA1c was seen (95% CI, 0.04‐0.94; I2 = 84%), with unexplained heterogeneity and a low GRADE of evidence. For type 2 diabetes, using diabetes apps was associated with a mean reduction of 0.57% (95% CI, 0.32‐0.82; I2 = 77%). The results had severe heterogeneity that was explained by the frequency of HCP feedback. In studies with no HCP feedback, low frequency and high frequency HCP feedback, the mean reduction is 0.24% (95% CI, 0.02‐0.49; I2 = 0%), 0.33% (95% CI, 0.07‐0.59; I2 = 47%) and 1.12% (95% CI, 0.91‐1.32; I2 = 0%), respectively, with a high GRADE of evidence. There is evidence that diabetes apps improve glycaemic control in type 1 diabetes patients. A reduction of 0.57% in HbA1c was found in type 2 diabetes patients. However, HCP functionality is important to achieve clinical effectiveness. Future studies are needed to explore the cost‐effectiveness of diabetes apps and the optimal intensity of HCP feedback.
Fish functional diversity responses following flood pulses in the upper Paraná River floodplain
Authors: Baumgartner Matheus T. , de Oliveira Anielly G. , Agostinho Angelo A. , Gomes Luiz C.
Published: March 2018

Flood pulses are the main force driving the dynamics of aquatic communities in floodplains. The responses of communities to environmental changes following flood pulses usually demand a time lag to appear and reach the climax. We assembled a data set of 16 years of fish samplings to assess the relationship between water level and four functional diversity measures, in the upper Paraná River floodplain. Specifically, we approached four aspects of each relationship between water level and functional diversity: nature (positive or negative), sensitivity (response intensity), responsiveness (response delay) and extent (response duration). The nature of the relationship between water level and functional diversity was positive in all cases. Functional richness (FRic) responded right after flood pulses, although with shorter extent. Abundance‐dependent functional measures (evenness—FEve; divergence—FDiv; and Rao's quadratic entropy—Rao's Q) presented delayed responses, reaching peaks more than 1.5 years after flood pulses. Significant effects of floods on fish functional diversity were observed for more than 3 years, although the highest functional diversity was observed with 1.8 years, on average. More importantly, flood pulses had no longer significant effects on functional diversity after 4 years. Regarding conservation strategies in regulated systems, flood events should occur every 2 or 3 years, with adequate timing (October‐November), intensity (up to 450 cm) and duration (at least 50 uninterrupted days). Intervals longer than 3 years or inadequate timing, intensity and duration could dramatically decrease functional diversity and compromise ecosystem services.
Swimming responses of larval and juvenile freshwater fishes to nearshore and offshore water sources
Authors: Malinich Timothy D. , Pangle Kevin
Published: March 2018

Dispersal of young fish through wind‐driven currents has a growing research focus in large freshwater lakes; however, the influence of behaviour on such dispersal has not been tested. Fish may orient to different environmental cues and use swimming behaviours to navigate towards or retain their position within important habitats. To examine the ability of larval and juvenile fishes of the Laurentian Great Lakes to perceive and orient to nearshore or offshore habitats, we carried out a series of behavioural trials in a flume in which fish choose between different combinations of nearshore and offshore water, and well water. Water and a natural assemblage of larval and juvenile nearshore fish (Dominant species: white sucker, Catostomus commersonii, and spottail shiners, Notropis hudonius) used in the experiment were collected from northern Lake Michigan near Beaver Island. Results of our study suggest that young fish are capable of distinguishing and responding to different water sources, indicating a potential to orient within their environment, such as through the use of olfactory cues. We did not see a difference in fish response to changing concentrations of water cues, possibly suggesting that the threshold for fish response occurs at lower concentrations than were tested in our experiments. This preliminary study into orientation of Great Lakes fishes demonstrates the capacity of these fish to orient to cues in water sources and indicates the need to consider active movement in future studies of larval dispersal and habitat choice in the large freshwater lakes.
Multiaxial notch fatigue life prediction based on pseudo stress correction and finite element analysis under variable amplitude loading
Authors: Tao Z.‐Q. , Shang D.‐G. , Sun Y.‐J. , Liu X.‐D. , Chen H. , Li Z.‐G.
Published: March 2018

A new computational methodology is proposed for fatigue life prediction of notched components subjected to variable amplitude multiaxial loading. In the proposed methodology, an estimation method of non‐proportionality factor (F) proposed by authors in the case of constant amplitude multiaxial loading is extended and applied to variable amplitude multiaxial loading by using Wang‐Brown's reversal counting approach. The pseudo stress correction method integrated with linear elastic finite element analysis is utilized to calculate the local elastic‐plastic stress and strain responses at the notch root. For whole local strain history, the plane with weight‐averaged maximum shear strain range is defined as the critical plane in this study. Based on the defined critical plane, a multiaxial fatigue damage model combined with Miner's linear cumulative damage law is used to predict fatigue life. The experimentally obtained fatigue data for 7050‐T7451 aluminium alloy notched shaft specimens under constant and variable amplitude multiaxial loadings are used to verify the proposed methodology and equivalent strain‐based methodology. The results show that the proposed methodology is superior to equivalent strain‐based methodology.
How can “Super Corals” facilitate global coral reef survival under rapid environmental and climatic change?
Authors: Camp Emma F. , Schoepf Verena , Suggett David J.
Published: March 2018

Coral reefs are in a state of rapid global decline via environmental and climate change, and efforts have intensified to identify or engineer coral populations with increased resilience. Concurrent with these efforts has been increasing use of the popularized term “Super Coral” in both popular media and scientific literature without a unifying definition. However, how this subjective term is currently applied has the potential to mislead inference over factors contributing to coral survivorship, and the future trajectory of coral reef form and functioning. Here, we discuss that the information required to support a single definition does not exist, and in fact may never be appropriate, i.e. “How Super is Super”? Instead, we advocate caution of this term, and suggest a workflow that enables contextualization and clarification of superiority to ensure that inferred or asserted survivorship is appropriate into future reef projections. This is crucial to robustly unlock how “Super Corals” can be integrated into the suite of management options required to facilitate coral survival under rapid environmental and climate change.
Comparison of body composition and physical and cognitive function between older Japanese adults with no diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes: A cross‐sectional study in community‐dwelling Japanese older people
Authors: Kera Takeshi , Kawai Hisashi , Hirano Hirohiko , Kojima Motonaga , Watanabe Yutaka , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ihara Kazushige , Obuchi Shuichi
Published: March 2018

Aim

Diabetes is associated with not only cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, but also reductions in physical and cognitive function. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether muscle strength, walking ability and balance declined in Japanese community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes or prediabetes.

Methods

We analyzed data from comprehensive health checkups carried out for 1689 individuals (710 men, 979 women; mean age 71.4 ± 5.6 years) between 2011 and 2016. Participants were divided into three groups: no diabetes (non‐history of diabetes and glycated hemoglobin level <5.7%), prediabetes (non‐history of diabetes, but glycated hemoglobin level was 5.7–6.4%) and diabetes (history of diabetes or glycated hemoglobin level >6.4%). Physical and cognitive function were compared between groups after adjusting for covariates.

Results

Participants with diabetes showed higher levels of obesity, comorbidity, gonarthrosis, and body fat, and lower levels of physical function relative to those observed in participants with prediabetes or no diabetes. After adjusting covariates, participants with diabetes showed significantly lower grip strength (P < 0.010), slower walking speed (P < 0.005), longer Timed Up and Go test time (P < 0.007) and less time spent standing on one foot (P < 0.001) relative to those with no diabetes, but not those with prediabetes.

Conclusions

Significant functional decline was observed in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes, but not in those with prediabetes. Prevention of the progression of prediabetes to diabetes is important in avoiding reductions in physical function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1031–1037.
Association between atherosclerosis and handgrip strength in non‐hypertensive populations in India and Japan
Authors: Yamanashi Hirotomo , Kulkarni Bharati , Edwards Tansy , Kinra Sanjay , Koyamatsu Jun , Nagayoshi Mako , Shimizu Yuji , Maeda Takahiro , Cox Sharon E
Published: March 2018

Aim

Although several risk factors contribute to the development of sarcopenia, whether preclinical atherosclerosis contributes to the risk of sarcopenia is not established. The present cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate if there is an association between preclinical atherosclerosis and muscle strength among two ethnic populations.

Methods

Participants included individuals aged ≥40 years and enrolled in the third follow‐up examination of the Andhra Pradesh Children and Parents Study, India, and in the baseline assessments of the Nagasaki Islands Study, Japan. Preclinical atherosclerosis was evaluated by carotid intima‐media thickness, brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity, cardio‐ankle vascular index. The association of carotid intima‐media thickness and pulse wave velocity/cardio‐ankle vascular index with handgrip strength (HGS) was analyzed separately in the sexes and for hypertensive status from the two cohorts using a multivariable linear regression model.

Results

Data on a total of 1501 participants in India and 3136 participants in Japan were analyzed. Carotid intima‐media thickness was negatively associated with HGS in non‐hypertensive Indian men (B coefficient = −5.38, P = 0.036). Arterial stiffness was also associated with HGS in non‐hypertensive Indian men (B = −0.97, P = 0.001), but not in hypertensive Indian men. Same as Indian men, we found the significant associations between arterial stiffness and HGS in non‐hypertensive women in both India and Japan (B = −0.44, P = 0.020, B = −0.63, P = 0.016, respectively), but not in hypertensive women.

Conclusions

The negative association between preclinical atherosclerosis and HGS was dominantly found in non‐hypertensive participants. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1071–1078.
Clinical experience with moroctocog alfa (AF‐CC) in younger paediatric patients with severe haemophilia A: Two open‐label studies
Authors: Rusen L. , Kavakli K. , Korth‐Bradley J. , Huard F. , Rendo P. , Fuiman J. , Baumann J. A. , Smith L. , Alvey C. , Rupon J.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The pharmacokinetics (PK), efficacy and safety of moroctocog alfa (AF‐CC) have been demonstrated in haemophilia A patients aged ≥6 years.

Aim

These studies aimed to further describe moroctocog alfa (AF‐CC) experience in paediatric patients (<12 years) with severe haemophilia A (FVIII:C < 1%).

Methods

Two prospective, open‐label studies enrolled patients aged <12 years: one study with 37 previously treated patients (PTPs) and another with 23 previously untreated patients (PUPs). All patients initially received 50 IU/kg of moroctocog alfa (AF‐CC) to evaluate either recovery alone, or with other PK parameters (6 to <12 years) before continuing treatment for 100 exposure days (EDs) or 24 months.

Results

At baseline, mean (±SD) recovery ranged between 1.32 ± 0.65 (PUPs aged <2 years) and 2.13 ± 0.82 (PTPs aged 6 to <12 years). The mean (±SD) half‐life was 9.12 ± 1.94 hours in PTPs aged 6 to <12 years. No new safety signals were detected in either study, 2 transient lower titre inhibitors occurred in PTPs while 8 inhibitors (3 low and 5 high titre) were detected in PUPs. Most bleeding episodes resolved with one infusion (94% [893/954]). The annualised bleeding rate (ABR) in the PTP study was 27.5 and 4.2 for patients reporting an on‐demand and routine prophylaxis regimen at baseline, respectively. In the PUP study, the overall ABR was 5.9.

Conclusion

Moroctocog alfa (AF‐CC) had expected PK findings (lower recovery in young children compared with older children) along with being safe and efficacious in a population of young severe haemophilia A patients.
Th‐17 response and antimicrobial peptide expression are uniformly expressed in gastric mucosa of Helicobacter pylori‐infected patients independently of their clinical outcomes
Authors: Cremniter Julie , Bodet Charles , Tougeron David , Dray Xavier , Guilhot Joëlle , Jégou Jean‐François , Morel Franck , Lecron Jean‐Claude , Silvain Christine , Burucoa Christophe
Published: March 2018

Background

The pathological determinism of H. pylori infection is explained by complex interplay between bacterial virulence and host inflammatory response. In a large prospective multicenter clinical study, Th17 response, expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), cagA and vacA status, and bacterial density were investigated in the gastric mucosa of H. pylori ‐infected patients.

Materials and methods

Gastric inflammatory response was analyzed by RT‐qPCR for quantification of Th17 cytokines (IL‐17A, IL‐22), CXCL‐8, and AMPs (BD2 and S100A9) mRNA levels in gastric biopsies. Detection and genotyping of H. pylori strains were achieved by bacterial culture and PCR.

Results

Among 787 patients screened for H. pylori, 269 were analyzed (147 H. pylori ‐infected and 122 uninfected patients). In H. pylori ‐infected patients, distribution was 83 gastritis, 12 duodenal ulcers, 5 gastric ulcers, and 47 precancerous and cancerous lesions. CXCL‐8, IL‐17A, BD2, and S100A9 mRNA levels were significantly increased in H. pylori ‐infected patients but, surprisingly, IL‐22 was not, and no difference was shown between H. pylori ‐related diseases. A positive correlation was identified between S100A9 expression and bacterial density. Although expression of the virulence genes cagA and vacA did not impact inflammatory response, patients infected with a cagA‐positive strain were associated with severe H. pylori ‐related diseases.

Conclusion

This study showed that CXCL‐8, IL‐17A, and AMPs are not differently expressed according to the various H. pylori ‐related diseases. The clinical outcome determinism of H. pylori infection is most likely not driven by gastric inflammation but rather tends to mainly influenced by bacterial virulence factors.
Effects of early motivational interviewing on post‐stroke depressive symptoms: A pilot randomized study of the Good Mood Intervention program
Authors: Kerr Debra , McCann Terence , Mackey Elizabeth , Wijeratne Tissa
Published: March 2018

Aims

The aim of this pilot randomized study was to investigate the feasibility of early motivational interviewing, for reducing mood after acute stroke.

Background

Depression is a frequent consequence of stroke that can adversely affect recovery.

Methods

Design

Pilot randomized study. Intervention group patients received 3, individual motivational interviewing sessions by nurses or social workers prior to hospital discharge.

Participants

Adult patients with acute stroke during 2013 to 2014.

Blinding

Research assistant who collected data was blind to group assignment.

Outcomes

Data were collected at 3 time points: baseline, 1‐month, and 3‐month follow‐up. Outcome measures (anxiety, depression, quality of life) were analysed by descriptive statistics.

Results

Forty‐eight patients were enrolled, and 79% retention was achieved at 3 months. Eight participants withdrew (16.7%), and 2 were unable to participate (death: 2.1% and new onset aphasia: 2.1%), leaving 38 participants in the final cohort (Intervention: N = 18, Control: N = 20). Anxiety, depression, and quality of life measures did not alter significantly in the study period.

Conclusions

Carefully designed studies are required to investigate the effectiveness of early motivational interviewing for improving mood after stroke. The therapy can be administered by nurses, but significant resources are required in terms of training and fidelity.
Requirement of Leptinotarsa decemlineata gene within the 74EF puff for larval–pupal metamorphosis and appendage growth
Authors: Xu Q.‐Y. , Meng Q.‐W. , Deng P. , Fu K.‐Y. , Guo W.‐C. , Li G.‐Q.
Published: March 2018

Two Drosophila melanogaster E‐twenty‐six domain transcription factor isoforms (E74A and E74B) act differentially at the start of the 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) signalling cascade to regulate larval–pupal metamorphosis. In the present paper, we identified the two isoforms (LdE74A and LdE74B) in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. During the larval development stage, the mRNA transcript levels of the two LdE74 isoforms were correlated with circulating 20E titres. In vitro midgut culture and in vivo dietary supplementation with 20E revealed that the presence of 20E induced expression peaks of both LdE74A and LdE74B, with similar patterns observed for the two isoforms. Moreover, the mRNA transcript levels of both LdE74A and LdE74B isoforms were significantly downregulated in the L. decemlineata ecdysone receptor RNA interference (RNAi) specimens, but not in the LdE75 RNAi beetles. Ingestion of 20E reduced the larval fresh weights and shortened the larval development period, irrespective of knockdown of LdE74 or not. RNAi of LdE74 did not affect 20E‐induced expression of the Ecdysone induced protein 75‐hormone receptor 3‐fushi tarazu factor 1 (E75‐HR3‐FTZ‐F1) transcriptional cascade. Thus, it seems that LdE74 mediates 20E signalling independent of the E75‐HR3‐FTZ‐F1 transcriptional cascade. Furthermore, silencing of both LdE74 isoforms caused failure of ecdysis. Most of the LdE74 RNAi beetles remained as prepupae. The LdE74 RNAi prepupae exhibited adult character‐like forms underneath after removal of the apolysed larval cuticle. Their appendages such as antennae, legs and wings were shorter than those of control larvae. Only a few LdE74 RNAi larvae finally became deformed pupae, with shortened antennae and legs. Therefore, LdE74 is required for larval–pupal metamorphosis and appendage growth in L. decemlineata.
Good social skills despite poor theory of mind: exploring compensation in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Livingston Lucy Anne , Colvert Emma ,   the Social Relationships Study Team, Bolton Patrick , Happé Francesca
Published: March 2018

Background

It is proposed that some individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can ‘compensate’ for their underlying difficulties (e.g. in theory of mind; ToM), thus demonstrating relatively few behavioural symptoms, despite continued core cognitive deficits. The mechanisms underpinning compensation are largely unexplored, as is its potential impact on mental health. This study aimed to estimate compensation patterns in ASD, by contrasting overt social behaviour with ToM task performance, in order to compare the characteristics of ‘Low’ and ‘High’ Compensators.

Methods

A total of 136 autistic adolescents, from the ongoing Social Relationships Study, completed a range of cognitive tasks, the Autistic Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and a self‐report anxiety questionnaire. Participants were assigned compensation group status; High Compensators demonstrated good ADOS scores despite poor ToM performance, while Low Compensators demonstrated similarly poor ToM, accompanied by poor ADOS scores.

Results

High Compensators demonstrated better IQ and executive function (EF), but greater self‐reported anxiety, compared with Low Compensators. Such differences were not found when comparing individuals who had good versus poor ADOS scores, when ToM performance was good. Other core autistic characteristics (weak central coherence, nonsocial symptoms) did not differentiate the High and Low Compensators.

Conclusions

IQ, EF and anxiety appear to be implicated in the processes by which certain autistic young people can compensate for their underlying ToM difficulties. This tendency to compensate does not appear to reflect the severity of ‘hit’ for ASD per se, suggesting that well‐compensated individuals are not experiencing a milder form of ASD. The construct of compensation in ASD has implications for research and clinical practice.
Dietary docosahexaenoic acid supplementation enhances expression of fatty acid‐binding protein 5 at the blood–brain barrier and brain docosahexaenoic acid levels
Authors: Pan Yijun , Morris Elonie R. , Scanlon Martin J. , Marriott Philip J. , Porter Christopher J. H. , Nicolazzo Joseph A.
Published: March 2018

The cytoplasmic trafficking of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a cognitively beneficial fatty acid, across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is governed by fatty acid‐binding protein 5 (FABP5). Lower levels of brain DHA have been observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is associated with diminished BBB expression of FABP5. Therefore, up‐regulating FABP5 expression at the BBB may be a novel approach for enhancing BBB transport of DHA in AD. DHA supplementation has been shown to be beneficial in various mouse models of AD, and therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether DHA has the potential to up‐regulate the BBB expression of FABP5, thereby enhancing its own uptake into the brain. Treating human brain microvascular brain endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells with the maximum tolerable concentration of DHA (12.5 μM) for 72 h resulted in a 1.4‐fold increase in FABP5 protein expression. Associated with this was increased expression of fatty acid transport proteins 1 and 4. To study the impact of dietary DHA supplementation, 6‐ to 8‐week‐old C57BL/6 mice were fed with a control diet or a DHA‐enriched diet for 21 days. Brain microvascular FABP5 protein expression was up‐regulated 1.7‐fold in mice fed the DHA‐enriched diet, and this was associated with increased brain DHA levels (1.3‐fold). Despite an increase in brain DHA levels, reduced BBB transport of 14C‐DHA was observed over a 1 min perfusion, possibly as a result of competitive binding to FABP5 between dietary DHA and 14C‐DHA. This study has demonstrated that DHA can increase BBB expression of FABP5, as well as fatty acid transporters, overall increasing brain DHA levels.

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Whole‐exome sequencing reveals a novel missense mutation in the MARS gene related to a rare Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathy type 2U
Authors: Sagi‐Dain Lena , Shemer Lilach , Zelnik Nathanel , Zoabi Yusri , Orit Sadeh , Adir Vardit , Schif Aharon , Peleg Amir
Published: March 2018

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) is a heterogeneous group of progressive disorders, characterized by chronic motor and sensory polyneuropathy. This hereditary disorder is related to numerous genes and varying inheritance patterns. Thus, many patients do not reach a final genetic diagnosis. We describe a 13‐year‐old girl presenting with progressive bilateral leg weakness and gait instability. Extensive laboratory studies and spinal magnetic resonance imaging scan were normal. Nerve conduction studies revealed severe lower limb peripheral neuropathy with prominent demyelinative component. Following presumptive diagnosis of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, the patient received treatment with steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins courses for several months, with no apparent improvement. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel heterozygous c.2209C>T (p.Arg737Trp) mutation in the MARS gene (OMIM 156560). This gene has recently been related to CMT type 2U. In‐silico prediction programs classified this mutation as a probable cause for protein malfunction. Allele frequency data reported this variant in 0.003% of representative Caucasian population. Family segregation analysis study revealed that the patient had inherited the variant from her 60‐years old mother, reported as healthy. Neurologic examination of the mother demonstrated decreased tendon reflexes, while nerve conduction studies were consistent with demyelinative and axonal sensory‐motor polyneuropathy. Our report highlights the importance of next‐generation sequencing approach to facilitate the proper molecular diagnosis of highly heterogeneous neurologic disorders. Amongst other numerous benefits, this approach might prevent unnecessary diagnostic testing and potentially harmful medical treatment.
Retinal histogenesis in an altricial avian species, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata,Vieillot 1817)
Authors: Álvarez‐Hernán Guadalupe , Sánchez‐Resino Elena , Hernández‐Núñez Ismael , Marzal Alfonso , Rodríguez‐León Joaquín , Martín‐Partido Gervasio , Francisco‐Morcillo Javier
Published: March 2018

Comparative developmental studies have shown that the retina of altricial fish and mammals is incompletely developed at birth, and that, during the first days of life, maturation proceeds rapidly. In contrast, precocial fish and mammals are born with fully differentiated retinas. Concerning birds, knowledge about retinal development is generally restricted to a single order of precocial birds, Galliformes, due to the fact that both the chicken and the Japanese quail are considered model systems. However, comparison of embryonic pre‐hatchling retinal development between altricial and precocial birds has been poorly explored. The purpose of this study was to examine the morphogenesis and histogenesis of the retina in the altricial zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata, Vieillot 1817) and compare the results with those from previous studies in the precocial chicken. Several maturational features (morphogenesis of the optic vesicle and optic cup, appearance of the first differentiated neurons, the period in which the non‐apical cell divisions are observable, and the emergence of the plexiform layers) were found to occur at later stages in the zebra finch than in the chicken. At hatching, the retina ofT. guttatashowed the typical cytoarchitecture of the mature tissue, although features of immaturity were still observable, such as a ganglion cell layer containing many thick cells, very thin plexiform layers, and poorly developed photoreceptors. Moreover, abundant mitotic activity was detected in the entire retina, even in the regions where the layering was complete. The circumferential marginal zone was very prominent and showed abundant mitotic activity. The partially undifferentiated stage of maturation at hatching makes theT. guttataretina an appropriate model with which to study avian postnatal retinal neurogenesis.
Calcaneal adduction and eversion are coupled to talus and tibial rotation
Authors: Fischer Katina Mira , Willwacher Steffen , Arndt Anton , Brüggemann Gert‐Peter
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to quantify isolated coupling mechanisms of calcaneal adduction/abduction and calcaneal eversion/inversion to proximal bones in vitro. The in vitro approach is necessary because in vivo both movements appear together, making it impossible to determine the extent of their individual contribution to overall ankle joint coupling. Eight fresh frozen foot‐leg specimens were tested. Data describing bone orientation and coupling mechanisms between segments were obtained using bone pin marker triads. The bone movement was described in a global coordinate system to examine the coupling between the calcaneus, talus and tibia. The strength of coupling was determined by means of the slope of a linear least squares fit to an angle–angle plot. The coupling coefficients in the present study indicate that not only calcaneal eversion/inversion (coupling coefficient: 0.68 ± 0.15) but to an even greater extent calcaneal adduction/abduction (coupling coefficient: 0.99 ± 0.10) was transferred into talus and tibial rotation, highlighting the relevance of calcaneal adduction for the overall ankle joint coupling. The results of this study present the possibility that controlling calcaneal adduction/abduction can affect talus and tibial rotation and therefore the possible genesis of overuse knee injuries.
Long‐term safety and effectiveness of brexpiprazole in Japanese patients with schizophrenia: A 52‐week, open‐label study
Authors: Ishigooka Jun , Iwashita Shuichi , Tadori Yoshihiro
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study assessed the long‐term safety, tolerability, and maintenance of the therapeutic effect of brexpiprazole in Japanese patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

This 52‐week, open‐label, flexible‐dose (1–4 mg/day) study included patients with schizophrenia who continued treatment from a short‐term randomized placebo‐controlled fixed‐dose (1, 2, or 4 mg/day) trial and de novo patients who switched from other antipsychotics.

Results

A total of 282 patients (184 de novo and 98 rolled over from short‐term trial) entered the 52‐week treatment with brexpiprazole, and 150 (53.2%) patients completed the week‐52 assessment. Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE) were experienced by 235/281 patients (83.6%), and TEAE reported by ≥10% of all patients were nasopharyngitis (23.1%) and worsening of schizophrenia (22.4%). During the study, most of the TEAE were mild or moderate in severity, and there were no deaths, and no clinically meaningful mean changes in laboratory values, vital signs, or electrocardiogram parameters. Mean scores for the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total and Clinical Global Impression–Severity remained stable until week 52.

Conclusion

Brexpiprazole was generally safe and well tolerated and maintained therapeutic effects in the long‐term treatment of Japanese patients with schizophrenia.
Altered gray matter volume and disrupted functional connectivity of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in men with heroin dependence
Authors: Lin Huang‐Chi , Wang Peng‐Wei , Wu Hung‐Chi , Ko Chih‐Hung , Yang Yi‐Hsin , Yen Cheng‐Fang
Published: March 2018

Aim

Chronic heroin use can cause various neuropathological characteristics that may compromise brain function. The present study evaluated the alteration of gray matter volume (GMV) and its resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) among male heroin users.

Methods

Thirty heroin‐dependent men undergoing methadone maintenance therapy and 30 educational‐level‐ and age‐matched male controls were recruited for this study. To assess their GMV and rsFC, the participants were evaluated using spoiled gradient echo and gradient‐recalled echo planar imaging sequences with a 3‐Tesla General Electric MR scanner under resting state.

Results

The heroin‐dependent men showed lower GMV over the right DLPFC in comparison with the controls. Further evaluation of the rsFC of the right DLPFC revealed a marked decrease in interhemispheric DLPFC connectivity among those with heroin dependence under control of head movement and GMV of the right DLPFC.

Conclusion

Although the mechanism remains unclear, the present study shows that chronic heroin use is associated with alteration of morphology as well as rsFC over the right DLPFC. As the DLPFC plays an imperative role in various domains of cognitive function, service providers for heroin users should consider the impacts of possible DLPFC‐related cognitive deficits on treatment effectiveness.
Angiomatoid and desmoplastic Spitz nevus presenting as a keloidal nodule
Authors: Yu JiaDe , Jen Melinda V. , Yan Albert C. , Elenitsas Rosalie , Rubin Adam I.
Published: March 2018

Angiomatoid and desmoplastic Spitz nevi are rare histologic variants of Spitz nevi that present most frequently on the extremities of children and young adults. Although Spitz nevi are clinically heterogeneous, one presenting as a keloidal nodule has not been previously published. We present a case of an angiomatoid and desmoplastic Spitz nevus clinically akin to a keloid on an African‐American teenager and describe its unique histopathologic features.
Topical N‐acetylcysteine in ichthyosis: Experience in 18 patients
Authors: Kaplan Laura , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie
Published: March 2018

The treatment options for ichthyosis are limited. Successful treatment with topical N‐acetylcysteine has been reported in a small number of patients, with generally good results. We report the finding of a retrospective chart review of 18 patients treated with N‐acetylcysteine. Although topical N‐acetylcysteine is an effective therapy for some patients with ichthyosis, problems with irritation, objectionable odor, and compounding costs limit its use.
Generalized lymphatic anomaly successfully treated with long‐term, low‐dose sirolimus
Authors: Dvorakova Veronika , Rea David , O'Regan Grainne M. , Irvine Alan D.
Published: March 2018

Generalized lymphatic anomaly is a rare, complex, lymphatic anomaly generally involving soft tissues, spleen, and bones. It can lead to focal skeletal fragility and pathologic effusions. A recent prospective trial of sirolimus for complicated vascular anomalies showed partial response in seven patients with generalized lymphatic anomaly treated with sirolimus with a target trough level of 10‐15 ng/mL for 1 year (Adams et al). We describe successful treatment of generalized lymphatic anomaly with a lower‐dose, long‐term course of sirolimus.