bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ventricular global longitudinal strain is altered in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Whipple Nicholas S. , Naik Ronak J. , Kang Guolian , Moen Joseph , Govindaswamy Sarala D. , Fowler James A. , Dowdy Jolanta , Penkert Rhiannon , Joshi Vijaya M. , Hankins Jane S.
Published: November 2018

Cardiac disease is the primary cause of death in sickle cell disease (SCD). Right and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (RVGLS, LVGLS) are early markers of systolic dysfunction but are not well investigated among children with SCD. One hundred and forty‐three patients with HbSS or HbSβ0‐thalassaemia (median age 11 years, range 5–19 years) and 71 controls matched for age and sex were compared. RVGLS and LVGLS were measured and compared with conventional measures of echocardiography and markers of haemolysis and inflammation. RVGLS was higher in children with SCD than in controls (−25·72% ± 3·45% vs. −24·54% ± 2·41%, P = 0·005); LVGLS was not different. RVGLS decreased with older age in children with SCD (ρ = 0·338, P < 0·001) but not among controls. Decreased RVGLS was associated with increased left atrial end diastolic volume (ρ = 0·181, P = 0·04); RVGLS increased with cardiac output (r = −0·279, P = 0·01). RVGLS and LVGLS were not associated with disease‐modifying therapies, degree of anaemia or haemolysis markers. Elevated RVGLS may indicate an early RV compensatory mechanism in response to upstream myocardial insults and elevated cardiac output. Global longitudinal strain may serve as an early marker of altered myocardial function in children with SCD.
Genetic predisposition to PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity in children treated according to NOPHO ALL2008
Authors: Højfeldt Sofie G. , Wolthers Benjamin O. , Tulstrup Morten , Abrahamsson Jonas , Gupta Ramneek , Harila‐Saari Arja , Heyman Mats , Henriksen Louise T. , Jónsson Òlafur G. , Lähteenmäki Päivi M. , Lund Bendik , Pruunsild Kaie , Vaitkeviciene Goda , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Albertsen Birgitte K. ,   the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology Oncology (NOPHO) group
Published: November 2018

Asparaginase is essential in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) treatment, however hypersensitivity reactions to pegylated asparaginase (PEG‐asparaginase) hampers anti‐neoplastic efficacy. Patients with PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity have been shown to possess zero asparaginase enzyme activity. Using this measurement to define the phenotype, we investigated genetic predisposition to PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity in a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). From July 2008 to March 2016, 1494 children were treated on the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology ALL2008 protocol. Cases were defined by clinical hypersensitivity and no enzyme activity, controls had enzyme activity ≥ 100 iu/l and no hypersensitivity symptoms. PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity was reported in 13·8% (206/1494) of patients. Fifty‐nine cases and 772 controls fulfilled GWAS inclusion criteria. The CNOT3 variant rs73062673 on 19q13.42, was associated with PEG‐asparaginase allergy (P = 4·68 × 10−8). We further identified two signals on chromosome 6 in relation to HLA‐DQA1 (P = 9·37 × 10−6) and TAP2 (P = 1·59 × 10−5). This study associated variants in CNOT3 and in the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) region with PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity, suggesting that not only genetic variations in the HLA region, but also regulation of these genes are of importance in the biology of this toxicity. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the importance of using asparaginase enzyme activity measurements to identify PEG‐asparaginase hypersensitivity.
Genome‐wide identification of microRNAs regulating the human prion protein
Authors: Pease Daniel , Scheckel Claudia , Schaper Elke , Eckhardt Valeria , Emmenegger Marc , Xenarios Ioannis , Aguzzi Adriano
Published: November 2018

The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is best known for its misfolded disease‐causing conformer, PrPSc. Because the availability of PrPC is often limiting for prion propagation, understanding its regulation may point to possible therapeutic targets. We sought to determine to what extent the human microRNAome is involved in modulating PrPC levels through direct or indirect pathways. We probed PrPC protein levels in cells subjected to a genome‐wide library encompassing 2019 miRNA mimics using a robust time‐resolved fluorescence‐resonance screening assay. Screening was performed in three human neuroectodermal cell lines: U‐251 MG, CHP‐212 and SH‐SY5Y. The three screens yielded 17 overlapping high‐confidence miRNA mimic hits, 13 of which were found to regulate PrPC biosynthesis directly via binding to the PRNP 3’UTR, thereby inducing transcript degradation. The four remaining hits (miR‐124‐3p, 192‐3p, 299‐5p and 376b‐3p) did not bind either the 3’UTR or CDS of PRNP, and were therefore deemed indirect regulators of PrPC. Our results show that multiple miRNAs regulate PrPC levels both directly and indirectly. These findings may have profound implications for prion disease pathogenesis and potentially also for their therapy. Furthermore, the possible role of PrPC as a mediator of Aβ toxicity suggests that its regulation by miRNAs may also impinge on Alzheimer’s disease.
Character Development: Four Facets of Virtues
Authors: Lerner Richard M.
Published: November 2018

Character virtues are morally based actions that enable and individual and his or her social world to thrive across time and place. The morally valanced relation between individual and context involved in character virtue development may be studied productively by research and program evaluation focused on four facets of virtues: (a) Character virtue development involves mutually beneficial relations between the individual and the context (individual ⇔ context relations); (b) Coherence, reflecting the Aristotelian concept of phronesis, enables understanding of the specific ways in which an individual may contribute positively to the context that, in turn, supports him or her; (c) Specific character virtues develop in specific places at specific times through specific individual ⇔ context relations; and 4. Idiographic analysis is a useful first step in the study of character virtue development. Implications of these ideas for research and the evaluation of character education programs are discussed.
Using environmental DNA and occupancy modelling to identify drivers of eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) extirpation
Authors: Wineland Sean M. , Welch Shane M. , Pauley Thomas K. , Apodaca Joseph J. , Olszack Max , Mosher Jennifer J. , Holmes Jeffrey N. , Waldron Jayme L.
Published: November 2018

Population declines and local extirpation trends are widespread among freshwater species, but the responsible drivers of these trends are poorly understood. Identifying the potential drivers of population declines is essential to effective conservation planning. However, conventional detection methods used to monitor cryptic and elusive freshwater species are inefficient. Integrating new surveying and modelling techniques may allow for a more comprehensive assessment of population declines.

We used environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling methods and detailed historical records to identify drivers of local extirpation in a declining, long‐lived giant salamander, the eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) in West Virginia, U.S.A. We used a site occupancy and detection modelling framework (SODM) to test the influence of current land use, historical mining, hydrogeomorphic and water quality variables on model‐based predictions of hellbender extirpation and detection.

We failed to detect hellbender eDNA at 51% (naïve 1 – Ψ) of historical sites, suggesting local extirpation at a broad spatial scale in West Virginia. Our best‐supported SODM model suggested catchment‐scale road density was the best predictor of hellbender extirpation, and that 38% (predicted 1 – Ψ) of historical sites may be locally extirpated. Estimates of hellbender occupancy probability were extremely low in highly developed catchments. Water turbidity and conductivity were the best predictors of eDNA detection, both negatively influencing detection probability.

Roads can increase sedimentation rates and alter water chemistry of freshwater ecosystems, identifying landscape alteration/human development and water quality declines as possible drivers of hellbender extirpation trends in West Virginia. Our findings also suggest that water conductivity and turbidity may act as polymerase chain reaction inhibitors and decrease eDNA detection in lotic systems.

This study emphasises the negative impacts of urban development on freshwater ecosystems and the sensitivity of long‐lived amphibian species to rapid environmental change. Our findings may aid in conservation planning by providing a sampling framework that integrates eDNA data within a SODM framework to rapidly and accurately assesses relational changes in aquatic species' occupancy at historical sites.
Generating Alternative Land‐use Allocation for Mixed Use Areas: Multi‐Objective Optimization Approach
Authors: Sharmin Nusrat , Haque Afsana , Islam Md. Monirul
Published: November 2018

Current research is carried out with an intention to present an optimization approach for the urban land‐use allocation problem by generating Pareto optimum solutions considering two objectives—maximizing compatibility among adjacent space uses of a study area without compromising the area’s total land price and maximizing the price of plot of each individual owner. Considering the non‐linear characteristics of the objective functions, a multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm approach called Non‐Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm‐II (NSGA‐II) is applied to obtain Pareto optimal land‐use allocation subject to different set of constraints. The objective functions are tested over a case study area of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The resulting NSGA‐II model produces 24 Pareto optimal solutions of land‐use allocation, allowing tradeoff between maximizing compatibility and land price from one solution to other. This research also expresses the potential of the model to aid the policymakers and city planners of development authorities by providing alternative land‐use plans, and thereby predicting the consequences of any plan before practical application.
Factors influencing blood pressure classification for adults: Gender differences
Authors: Choi Jin Yi , Yun Eun Kyoung , Yeun Eun Ja , Jeong Eun Sook
Published: November 2018

Aim

Hypertension is a common condition contributing to many diseases. Factors influencing blood pressure (BP) classification for adults have changed over time. This study aimed to identify factors influencing BP classification according to gender.

Methods

Data from the Sixth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2014) were used in this descriptive, cross‐sectional study. Participants were 1555 adults (589 men, 966 women). Measures included demographic, health‐related, and lifestyle factors.

Results

Compared with the male normal BP group, in the male prehypertension group, body mass index, problem drinking, and reduced sleep duration were higher; and in the male hypertension group, age, poor subjective health status, body mass index, diabetes, problem drinking, smoking, and sodium intake were higher. Compared with the female normal BP group, age, and body mass index were higher in the female prehypertension group; and age, poor subjective health status, body mass index, menopause, and diabetes were higher in the female hypertension group.

Conclusion

Hypertension and prehypertension prevention interventions for adults should be distinguished according to gender.
Health beliefs and behaviours in relation to sexually transmitted infections among South Korean juvenile offenders: A focused ethnography study
Authors: Jeong Sookyung , Lee Jacob , Seo Yu Bin , Cha Chiyoung
Published: November 2018

Aim

This study explored health beliefs and behaviours related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from the perspective of juvenile offenders with STIs in three urban cities.

Methods

Data were collected using observations and in‐depth interviews between July and November, 2014. Under the supervision of probation officers, 24 juvenile offenders with STIs were interviewed. Leininger's four‐step method guided the data analysis.

Findings

From participants' perspectives, poor hygiene and a promiscuous lifestyle caused the STIs. The diseases were considered an adult disease with distinct symptoms and deformities, no cure, and therefore fatal. STIs were shameful for juveniles because their presence revealed sexually active behaviours. The juveniles' health‐related behaviours included neglecting their STI symptoms because they did not know they were infected, mistaking STIs for other health conditions, choosing to suffer rather than revealing their diagnosis, and keeping their genitals clean.

Conclusion

A large gap emerged between juveniles' beliefs and behaviours related to STIs. Policies and education are needed to provide accurate STI information for this population.
Service managers’ experiences of how the participation of people with intellectual disabilities can be promoted in Swedish group homes
Authors: Berlin Hallrup Leena , Kumlien Christine , Carlson Elisabeth
Published: November 2018

Background

People with intellectual disabilities in staffed group homes often need lifelong support and dependency on others. Thereby, special demands are placed on staff and service managers to ensure opportunities for participation in everyday life. This study aims to explore how service managers promote participation in Swedish group homes for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A qualitative research design involving individual interviews with 14 service managers was used to gain an understanding of how the participation of adults with intellectual disabilities can be promoted in Swedish group homes.

Results

The results comprise two main themes; Creating preconditions for participation and Barriers for promotion of participation.

Conclusions

Service managers experienced that promoting service user participation in group homes was an important part of their responsibility. The findings indicate that structural strategies such as coaching, supervision and reflection are important and should be further developed.
Secular changes in clinical manifestations of kidney disease among Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes from 1996 to 2014
Authors: Kume Shinji , Araki Shin‐ichi , Ugi Satoshi , Morino Katsutaro , Koya Daisuke , Nishio Yoshihiko , Haneda Masakazu , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Maegawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2018

Aims/Introduction

Diabetic kidney disease is characterized by increased albuminuria and/or a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We analyzed secular changes in the prevalence of albuminuria and reduced estimated GFR (eGFR) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes, and identified factors associated with these changes.

Materials and Methods

Using 1996, 2001, 2006 and 2014 cohort data from the Japanese serial cross‐sectional studies conducted at Shiga University of Medical Science, secular changes in the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (albuminuria and/or reduced eGFR), patient characteristics and their associations were analyzed.

Results

The prevalence of microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria decreased over time, whereas the prevalence of moderately reduced eGFR (30–60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and severely reduced eGFR (<30 mL/min/1.73 m2) increased. Severely reduced eGFR was observed mainly in the patients with macroalbuminuria, regardless of year. Conversely, the prevalence of moderately reduced eGFR increased in the patients without macroalbuminuria. Both macroalbuminuria and moderately reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria in the 2014 cohort were refractory to the recently recommended intensive therapy. Finally, we showed that obesity accompanied by vascular dysfunction was a risk factor for the development of albuminuria, and that age‐dependent arterial stiffness was associated with reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria in the 2014 cohort.

Conclusions

During the past 20 years in Japan, the prevalence of albuminuria declined, whereas that of reduced eGFR increased. Additionally, obesity‐ and high age‐related vascular damage seems to be associated with macroalbuminuria and reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria, respectively.
Predictors of response to omalizumab and relapse in chronic spontaneous urticaria: a study of 470 patients
Authors: Marzano A.V. , Genovese G. , Casazza G. , Fierro M.T. , Dapavo P. , Crimi N. , Ferrucci S. , Pepe P. , Liberati S. , Pigatto P.D. , Offidani A. , Martina E. , Girolomoni G. , Rovaris M. , Foti C. , Stingeni L. , Cristaudo A. , Canonica G.W. , Nettis E. , Asero R.
Published: November 2018

Background

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined as spontaneous occurrence of wheals and/or angioedema for ≥6 weeks. Omalizumab is a monoclonal anti‐IgE antibody effective in refractory CSU, but its mechanism of action and markers predictive of response remain not completely defined.

Objectives

To correlate baseline levels of two proposed biomarkers, total IgE (bIgE) and d‐dimer (bd‐dimer), and clinical parameters to omalizumab response and to relapses after drug withdrawal.

Methods

In this retrospective Italian multicentre study, clinical data were collected in 470 CSU patients, and bIgE and bd‐dimer were measured in 340 and 342 patients, respectively. Disease activity was determined by Urticaria Activity Score 7 (UAS7) at week 1 and 12 after omalizumab starting. Relapses were evaluated during a 2‐ and 3‐month interval after a first and a second course of treatment, respectively.

Results

bIgE correlated to a good response to omalizumab since levels were significantly higher in responders than non‐responders (P = 0.0002). Conversely, bd‐dimer did not correlate to response. There was no correlation between both bIgE and d‐dimer and either first or second relapse. Disease duration was significantly longer in patients who experienced either first or second relapse (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0105, respectively), while baseline UAS7 correlated only to first relapse (P = 0.0023).

Conclusions

Our study confirms bIgE as a reliable biomarker predicting response to omalizumab in CSU, while it does not support the usefulness of bd‐dimer unlike previous findings. CSU duration before omalizumab and baseline UAS7 may be clinical markers of relapse risk.
Biocomposite edible coatings based on cross linked‐sesame protein and mango puree for the shelf life stability of fresh‐cut mango fruit
Authors: Sharma Loveleen , Saini Charanjiv Singh , Sharma Harish Kumar , Sandhu Kawaljit Singh
Published: November 2018

Effect of bi‐layer coatings based on native/crosslinked sesame protein guar gum and mango puree with the addition of guar gum and calcium chloride on storage of fresh cut mango for 15 days was evaluated. Fruits were coated by layer by layer dipping method by crosslinked sesame protein/guar gum (coating‐ A) as a first layer and mango puree/calcium chloride (coating‐B) as a second layer and stored in polystyrene trays. Drip loss %, firmness, °Brix, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid content, total phenolic content, carotenoids, total sugars, and reducing sugars for both coated and noncoated samples were determined during 1, 3, 7, 12, and 15 days of storage. Results exhibited that all coating formulations have potential to improve the shelf life and maintain the quality of fresh cut mango for 15 days. Coatings from crosslinked proteins were found to be more effective as compared with native sesame protein based coatings.

Practical applications

Significant amount of mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit is wasted due to its climacteric nature and short life. Coatings have been applied to prolong shelf life and reduce wastage. The samples were coated with bi‐layer coatings based on native/crosslinked sesame protein, guar gum, mango puree, and calcium chloride. Based on the results obtained from drip loss percentage, chemical, and organoleptic characteristics, it was concluded that the effect of coating as well as storage temperature on the quality and shelf life of the fruit was significantly different when compare to noncoated samples. Sesame protein isolate crosslinked with organic acids can be act as a better and cost effective substitute of coatings obtained from other sources.
Self‐injurious behaviours in rhesus macaques: Potential glial mechanisms
Authors: Ramsey J. , Martin E. C. , Purcell O. M. , Lee K. M. , MacLean A. G.
Published: November 2018

Background

Self‐injurious behaviour (SIB) can be classified as intentional, direct injuring of body tissue usually without suicidal intent. In its non‐suicidal form it is commonly seen as a clinical sign of borderline personality disorder, autism, PTSD, depression, and anxiety affecting a wide range of ages and conditions. In rhesus macaques SIB is most commonly manifested through hair plucking, self‐biting, self‐hitting, and head banging. SIB in the form of self‐biting is observed in approximately 5–15% of individually housed monkeys. Recently, glial cells are becoming recognised as key players in regulating behaviours.

Method

The goal of this study was to determine the role of glial activation, including astrocytes, in macaques that had displayed SIB. To this end, we performed immunohistochemistry and next generation sequence of brain tissues from rhesus macaques with SIB.

Results

Our studies showed increased vimentin, but not nestin, expression on astrocytes of macaques displaying SIB. Initial RNA Seq analyses indicate activation of pathways involved in tissue remodelling, neuroinflammation and cAMP signalling.

Conclusions

Glia are most probably activated in primates with self‐injury, and are therefore potential novel targets for therapeutics.
Crystal structure and catalytic activity of the PPM1K N94K mutant
Authors: Dolatabad Meisam Rostaminasab , Guo Lu‐lu , Xiao Peng , Zhu Zhongliang , He Qing‐tao , Yang Du‐xiao , Qu Chang‐xiu , Guo Sheng‐chao , Fu Xiao‐lei , Li Rui‐rui , Ge Lin , Hu Ke‐jia , Liu Hong‐da , Shen Yue‐mao , Yu Xiao , Sun Jin‐peng , Zhang Peng‐ju
Published: November 2018

Abstracts

Protein Phosphatase Mg2+/Mn2+‐Dependent 1K (PPM1K),also named as PP2Cm or branched‐chain α‐ketoacid dehydrogenase complex phosphatase, is a member of the metal‐dependent phosphatase family and an important metabolic regulator. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in PPM1K contributing to protein functional defects have been found to be associated with numerous human diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, maple syrup urine disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurological disease. PPM1K N94K is an identified missense mutant produced by one of the SNPs in the human PPM1K coding sequence. However, the effects of the N94K mutant on its activity and structural property have not been defined. Here, we performed a detailed enzymological study using steady‐state kinetics in the presence of pNPP or phospho‐peptide substrates and crystallographic analyses of the wild‐type and N94K PPM1K. The PPM1K‐N94K significantly impaired its Mg2+‐dependent catalytic activity and structural analysis demonstrated that the N94K mutation induced a conformational change in the key residue in coordinating the Mg2+ in the active site. Specifically, three Mg2+ were located in the active site of the PPM1K N94K instead of two Mg2+ in the PPM1K wild type. Therefore, our results provide a structure basis for the metal ion‐dependent PPM1K‐N94K phosphatase activity.

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Symptom Science Research in the Era of Big Data: Leveraging Interdisciplinary Resources and Partners to Make It Happen
Authors: Corwin Elizabeth J. , Jones Dean P. , Dunlop Anne L.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to review the concept of team science as well as its benefits and challenges, within the framework of how including new ways of knowing can advance nursing science.

Design

An exemplar highlights the experiences and strategies utilized by researchers at one school of nursing as they increasingly became involved in team science.

Methods

Presented are the steps and processes that occurred as team science became the norm, expanding to include a network of linked investigators.

Conclusions

Although challenges to conducting team science exist, a reflection on how team science fits into the theoretical framework of Carper's Patterns of Knowing highlights its potential to drive nursing research forward.

Clinical Relevance

Leading or participating in team science can expand the lens by which nursing scientists conduct research that is meaningful to patients and families.
Potential biomarkers of the mature intervertebral disc identified at the single cell level
Authors: Li Kangning , Kapper Devin , Youngs Brittany , Kocsis Victoria , Mondal Sumona , Kraus Petra , Lufkin Thomas
Published: November 2018

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and trauma is a major socio‐economic burden and the focus of cell‐based regenerative medicine approaches. Despite numerous ongoing clinical trials attempting to replace ailing IVD cells with mesenchymal stem cells, a solid understanding of the identity and nature of cells in a healthy mature IVD is still in need of refinement. Although anatomically simple, the IVD is comprised of heterogeneous cell populations. Therefore, methods involving cell pooling for RNA profiling could be misleading. Here, by using RNA in situ hybridization and z proportion test, we have identified potential novel biomarkers through single cell assessment. We quantified the proportion of RNA transcribing cells for 50 genetic loci in the outer annulus fibrosus (AF) and nucleus pulposus (NP) in coccygeal bovine discs isolated from tails of four skeletally mature animals. Our data reconfirm existing data and suggest 10 novel markers such as Lam1 and Thy1 in the outer AF and Gli1, Gli3, Noto, Scx, Ptprc, Sox2, Zscan10 and LOC101904175 in the NP, including pluripotency markers, that indicate stemness potential of IVD cells. These markers could be added to existing biomarker panels for cell type characterization. Furthermore, our data once more demonstrate heterogeneity in cells of the AF and NP, indicating the need for single cell assessment by methods such as RNA in situ hybridization. Our work refines the molecular identity of outer AF and NP cells, which can benefit future regenerative medicine and tissue engineering strategies in humans.
Autologous platelet‐rich gel for facial rejuvenation and wrinkle amelioration: A pilot study
Authors: Jiménez Gómez Natalia , Pino Castresana Ander , Segurado Miravalles Gonzalo , Truchuelo Díez Mayte , Troya Estavillo María , Anitua Aldecoa Eduardo , Jaén Olasolo Pedro
Published: November 2018

Background

The demand for safe and minimally invasive soft tissue augmentation procedures has increased. Recently, a novel injectable gel based on the autologous platelet rich in growth factor (PRGF) technology has been developed to provide long‐term shape and volume stability. It can be customized into low (LVG) or high viscosity (HVG) gel forms to meet different dermatological requirements.

Objectives

The mechanical and biological properties of both gel forms have been evaluated. The clinical efficacy and safety of this autologous procedure were also evaluated.

Methods

Growth factor content and biomechanical properties of both gel forms were determined. The in vitro biological capacity on human dermal fibroblasts proliferation was assessed. Clinical performance analysis over ten patients was evaluated by standardized macrophotographs, 3D topographic images, and ultrasound analysis over periocular and nasolabial areas.

Results

Both gel types showed similar growth factor concentration. HVG showed a higher stiffness profile indicating its suitability for deeper tissue defect viscosupplementation while LVG showed optimal rheologic characteristics for superficial volumization. Both gels showed a noticeable biostability after catalytic enzyme degradation. Both forms significantly increased the mitogenic activity of dermal fibroblasts. All patients referred to be highly satisfied and presented optimal clinical results after one month. Overall clinical improvement was maintained for 16 weeks. At the end of the study, the ultrasound examination revealed a cutaneous regenerative effect. No adverse events occurred.

Conclusions

This preliminary study suggests that autologous platelet gels have desirable mechanical and bioactive properties and allows moderate wrinkle reduction and efficient facial volume reposition with natural results.
First trimester physiological development of the fetal foot position using three‐dimensional ultrasound in virtual reality
Authors: Bogers Hein , Rifouna Maria S. , Cohen‐Overbeek Titia E. , Koning Anton H. J. , Willemsen Sten P. , van der Spek Peter J. , Steegers‐Theunissen Régine P. M. , Exalto Niek , Steegers Eric A. P.
Published: November 2018

Aim

In anatomic studies of the embryo, it has been established that during the development of the lower limb, several changes in foot position can be observed defined as a temporary ‘physiological clubfoot’. The aim of this study was to develop and test a measurement tool for objective documentation of the first trimester foot position in vivo and made an attempt to create a chart for first trimester foot position.

Methods

We developed a virtual orthopedic protractor for measuring foot positioning using three‐dimensional virtual reality visualization. Three‐dimensional ultrasound volumes of 112 pregnancies of women examined during the first trimester were studied in a BARCO I‐Space. The frontal angle (plantar flexion) and the lateral angle (adduction) between the leg and foot were measured from 8 until 13 weeks gestational age.

Results

We observed that the frontal angle steadily decreases, whereas the lateral angle first increases, resulting in transient physiological clubfeet position at 10‐ to 11‐week gestation, followed by a decrease to a normal foot position.

Conclusion

A transient clubfoot position is present during the normal development of the lower limbs, and it has been measured in vivo for the first time. This study emphasizes that a diagnosis of congenital clubfoot should not be made in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Pathotypic and molecular evolution of contemporary population of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici in Egypt during 2016–2018
Authors: Draz Ibrahim Sobhy
Published: November 2018

The contemporary races of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) in Egypt during 2016–2018 were differentiated based on virulence and molecular patterns. Virulence patterns based on the reaction of the 17 World/European differential sets carrying stripe rust resistance genes (Yr genes) resulted in ten races including four new (first recorded in Egypt) and six old (previously recorded in Egypt). The new races were identified as 64E0 (virulence [V] Yr4, Su), 0E16 (V Yr8, 19), 66E0 (V Yr4, 7, 22, 23, Su) and 4E130 (V Yr2, 6, 7, 25, HVII), while the old were 0E0 (avirulence), 2E0 (V Yr7, 22, 23), 2E16 (V Yr7, 8, 19, 22, 23), 4E0 (V Yr2, 6), 6E4 (V Yr2, 6, 7, 22, 23, 25) and 70E4 (V Yr2, 4, 6, 7, 22, 23, 25, Su). Cluster analysis differentiated Pst races based on virulence frequency to Yr genes. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to detect the molecular polymorphism of the Pst races. Clustering separated the old and new races into two groups, indicating their common ancestry since the new races were very distinct from the old races. Although clustering based on virulence revealed some evolutionary patterns, where the new races 64E0 and 66E0 may have probably evolved from the old races (2E16, 2E0, 6E4, 70E4) and the new race 4E130 may be evolved from the joint race 4E0. However, clustering based on molecular patterns indicated that the new races appear to be genetically distinct and may represent an exotic introduction rather than a mutation in isolates of the old races. A weak association between virulence and molecular patterns revealed that they are independent of each other. The SSR markers did not correspond to the virulences in the pathogen. Further studies on the potential virulence genes of the detected Pst virulences are needed.
The chemical composition, antifungal, antioxidant and antimutagenicity properties of bioactive compounds from fungal endophytes associated with Thai orchids
Authors: Bungtongdee Nattawadee , Sopalun Kathawut , Laosripaiboon Wanpen , Iamtham Siriluck
Published: November 2018

Some plant‐derived bioactive compounds produced by fungal endophytes have been proven to have antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. In this study, endophytic fungi were isolated from 20 orchid samples collected in northern Thailand from 12 genera of orchids. In total, 97 isolates were isolated from the leaves (44.3%), stems (40.2%) and flowers (15.5%) of the orchid samples. The antifungal activity was investigated of the endophytic isolates against the plant pathogenic fungi. The results showed that 13 endophytic isolates provided antifungal activities against Fusarium sp., Colletotrichum sp. and Curvularia sp. The endophyte CK F05‐5, which was isolated from the flower part of Dendrobium lindleyi, was chosen for further testing because it the highest level of antifungal activity against Fusarium sp. The isolate CK F05‐5 was identified as Fusarium oxysporum on the basis of its ITS sequences of 5.8 s rRNA, and phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of coumarins. The ethyl acetate extract of CK F05‐5 was examined for its total phenolic content and antioxidant activity using Folin–Ciocalteu's reagent and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, respectively. The phenolic content was 160.51 mg of GAE/g of extract, and the free radical scavenging activity was 89.61 µg/ml at the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). The antimutagenic potential of the ethyl acetate extract of CK F05‐5 against Trp‐P‐1 mutagenic substances was determined using the Ames test which revealed that the extract of CK F05‐5 at 10 mg/plate had the highest antimutagenic activity against Trp‐P‐1 (51.2%) and 39.6% for strains TA98 and TA100, respectively. The active compounds present in the acetate extract of CK F05‐5 were examined using GC‐MS analysis, which displayed the presence of gibepyrone A, pyrrolo [1, 2‐a] pyrazine‐1, 4‐dione, hexahydro‐3‐(2‐methylpropyl) and indoleacetic acid as major components. Based on the results, this endophytic fungus contains various bioactive components that have various biological activities. This useful information could help in producing potentially valuable and novel pharmaceutical products.
Healing differences in narrow diameter implants submitted to immediate and conventional loading in mandibular overdentures: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bielemann Amália Machado , Marcello‐Machado Raissa Micaella , Schuster Alessandra Julie , Chagas Júnior Otacílio Luiz , Del Bel Cury Altair Antoninha , Faot Fernanda
Published: November 2018

Background

Biological responses to different loading protocols during the bone healing phase in subjects with long time since edentulism, rehabilitated with narrow diameter implants (NDIs) to retain mandibular overdentures (MOs), are still unavailable.

Objective

This randomized clinical trial compared the peri‐implant health, implant stability, and concentrations of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines in the peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) in mandibular edentulous patients under conventional (CL) and immediate loading (IML) during healing.

Methodology

Twenty totally edentulous patients received two NDIs (2.9 × 10 mm, Facility NeoPoros) placed in mandible anterior region and were randomly assigned to two loading protocols: CL (n = 10) and IML (n = 10). The following clinical outcomes were evaluated 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery: (a) peri‐implant tissue health (gingival index‐GI, plaque index‐PI, calculus‐presence CP, probing depth‐PD, and bleeding on probing‐BOP); (b) implant stability quotient (ISQ); and (c) IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐α levels in the PICF analyzed by ELISA.

Results

The CL group showed significantly higher CP scores at weeks 8 and 12. The IML group showed significantly higher GI from the first week onwards. The IML group presented significantly lower PD at all follow‐up times, and higher BOP rates than CL at week 12. The ISQ values of the CL group were higher than those of the IML group, except at week 4. The IML group released significantly more TNF‐α between weeks 1 and 4 and more IL‐1β during week 4‐12, while releasing less IL‐6 until week 8, mainly at week 2 (−47.6%). The release of IL‐10 was similar for both groups and increased progressively over time. At week 12, the IML group released 45.74% more IL‐10 than the CL group. The survival rates were 95% and 90% for CL and IML, respectively.

Conclusion

The IML group presented more favorable PD at all evaluation times; the differences between the other clinical parameters were less systematic. The implant stability and the inflammatory marker concentrations were more stable in the CL group.
Periodontal condition in Japanese coronary heart disease patients: A comparison between coronary and non‐coronary heart diseases
Authors: Aoyama Norio , Kobayashi Naho , Hanatani Tomoya , Ashigaki Norihiko , Yoshida Asuka , Shiheido Yuka , Sato Hiroki , Takamura Chisato , Yoshikawa Shunji , Matsuo Katsuhiko , Izumi Yuichi , Isobe Mitsuaki
Published: November 2018

Objective

The aim of this clinical trial was to assess the relationship between periodontal bacterial burden and coronary heart disease (CHD) in Japanese population.

Background

Many epidemiological reports suggest that periodontitis is a risk factor for CHD; however, the influence of each periodontal bacterium and periodontal condition in Japanese CHD patients is unclear.

Methods

We studied 897 patients with cardiovascular diseases in Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital from May 2012 to August 2015. The subjects were divided into six groups according to age and the existence of CHD (46‐60 years with CHD (n = 56): Group YC, 61‐70 years with CHD (n = 106): Group MC, over 70 years with CHD (n = 177): Group EC, 46‐60 years without CHD (n = 152): Group YN, 61‐70 years without CHD (n = 216): Group MN, and over 70 years without CHD (n = 190): Group EN).

Results

We found that the patients in Groups MC and EC had deeper periodontal pocket compared to the patients in Group YN (P < 0.05), although there was no statistical difference of pocket depth between Group YC and Groups MC and EC. Many subjects in Group EC had high anti‐Porphyromonas gingivalis and anti‐Prevotella intermedia antibodies in comparison to Group EN (P < 0.05). The CHD patients generally had worse oral condition than the non‐CHD patients. Elderly with CHD had a higher level of serum anti‐Porphyromonas gingivalis antibody and anti‐Prevotella intermedia antibody than those without CHD.

Conclusion

Increased periodontal infection was found in Japanese CHD patients compared to non‐CHD patients.
Longitudinal monitoring of anti‐saliva antibodies as markers of repellent efficacy against Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus papatasi in dogs
Authors: Risueño J. , Spitzová T. , Bernal L. J. , Muñoz C. , López M. C. , Thomas M. C. , Infante J. J. , Volf P. , Berriatua E.
Published: November 2018

A 2‐year longitudinal study of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) antibodies against Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae) sandfly saliva was performed in 32 Beagle dogs treated preventively with an imidacloprid–permethrin topical insecticide in an endemic area in Spain. Dogs were grouped into three sandfly exposure groups according to the time of inclusion in the study. Assays analysed immunoglobulin G (IgG) against salivary gland homogenates (SGH) of both species and recombinant P. papatasi rSP32 and P. perniciosus rSP03B proteins in serum. The dogs were participating in a Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) vaccine trial and were experimentally infected with the parasite in the second year. No dog acquired natural L. infantum infections during the first year, but most developed anti‐saliva antibodies, and median log‐transformed optical densities (LODs) were seasonal, mimicking those of local sandflies. This indicates that the repellent efficacy of the insecticide used is below 100%. Multi‐level modelling of LODs revealed variability among dogs, autocorrelation and differences according to the salivary antigen and the dog's age. However, dog seroprevalence, estimated using pre‐exposure LODs as cut‐offs, was relatively low. This, and the fact that dogs did not become naturally infected with L. infantum, would support the efficacy and usefulness of this imidacloprid–permethrin topical insecticide in canine leishmaniasis control.
Perspectives on phronesis in professional nursing practice
Authors: Jenkins Karen , Kinsella Elizabeth Anne , DeLuca Sandra
Published: November 2018

The concept of phronesis is venerable and is experiencing a resurgence in contemporary discourses on professional life. Aristotle’s notion of phronesis involves reasoning and action based on ethical ideals oriented towards the human good. For Aristotle, humans possess the desire to do what is best for human flourishing, and to do so according to the application of virtues. Within health care, the pervasiveness of economic agendas, technological approaches and managerialism create conditions in which human relationships and moral reasoning are becoming increasingly de‐valued. This creates a tension for nurses, and nursing leaders, as the desire to do what is morally right is often in conflict with contextual demands. In this paper, Aristotle’s writing on phronesis is examined with a focus on his classic conceptions of eudaimonia, the virtues, deliberation, judgement, and praxis. Building on Aristotle’s work, a number of contemporary views are explored with a focus on what various conceptualizations offer for the discipline of nursing. These expanded conceptions of phronesis include attention to: embodiment in practice; open‐mindedness including the capacity to stay curious and open to recognizing what we do not know; perceptiveness as a disposition towards insight and aesthetic understanding; and reflexivity as an ongoing process of interrogation and inquiry into ourselves and our actions. Drawing on these concepts, we discuss the affordances of phronesis as a morally informed guiding force to attend to modern‐day challenges in nursing practice and nursing leadership.
Bearing witness in nursing practice: More than a moral obligation?
Authors: Djkowich Mikelle , Ceci Christine , Petrovskaya Olga
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we explore the concept of bearing witness in nursing practice. We examine the description of bearing witness in the nursing literature, particularly that offered by William Cody who suggests that bearing witness results in the limited moral obligation of “true presence.” We then turn to Lorraine Code's work on testimony, drawing parallels between the concepts of testimony and bearing witness. Code suggests that receiving testimony results in a responsibility to respond, and that this is an ethico‐political obligation. We discuss these ideas in relation to a Canadian exemplar of witnessing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's work to understand and address the historical injustices done to Indigenous peoples in Canada. Here, we focus on the Commission's definition of witnessing and highlight the experience of Shelagh Rogers who served as an honorary witness. As an outcome of our analysis, we suggest that bearing witness in nursing practice is most usefully conceptualized as both a moral and a political obligation. Implications for nursing practice are suggested, including first, the need to critically examine our own understandings of power and privilege in order to authentically bear witness and avoid being complicit in injustice, and second, the concomitant responsibility to take action to challenge injustice once we have borne witness to it.
Growth patterns and overbite depth indicators of long and short faces in Korean adolescents: Revisited through mixed‐effects analysis
Authors: Han Seong Ho , Park Young‐Seok
Published: November 2018

Structured Abstract

Objective

The purpose was to evaluate skeletal factors related to the growth of subjects with skeletal open and deep bites based on lateral cephalographs from 9 years of pure longitudinal data using mixed effect analysis.

Setting and Sample Population

Fifty‐one children with extreme lower anterior facial height to total anterior facial height (LAFH/TAFH) ratio values at the age of 14 were assigned to either skeletal open bite or skeletal deep bite groups from a total of 223 subjects.

Material & Methods

The palatal plane angle (PPA), mandibular plane angle (MPA), gonial angle (GA), palatomandibular plane angle (PMA), upper gonial angle (UGA), lower gonial angle (LGA), occlusal plane angle (OPA) and overbite depth indicator (ODI) were measured and analysed. Mixed‐effects regression model analysis was used for the interpretation of data with random effects.

Results

Morphological differences were evident from the beginning and became more pronounced with age in MPA, GA, PMA, ODI and LGA. The initial values of all variables were statistically significant. Annual increases with age were statistically significant in GA, OPA, ODI and UGA. The morphological differences in the annual increases in MPA, GA, PMA and UGA were also statistically significant.

Conclusions

Morphologically different growth patterns were mainly contributed by lower anterior facial height dimensions. The extent of individual variations mandates judicious decision‐making in clinical situations.
Glycopyrronium tosylate in pediatric primary axillary hyperhidrosis: Post hoc analysis of efficacy and safety findings by age from two phase three randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hebert Adelaide A. , Glaser Dee Anna , Green Lawrence , Werschler William P. , Forsha Douglass W. , Drew Janice , Gopalan Ramanan , Pariser David M.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Hyperhidrosis in pediatric patients has been understudied. Post hoc analyses of two phase 3 randomized, vehicle‐controlled, 4‐week trials (ATMOS‐1 [NCT02530281] and ATMOS‐2 [NCT02530294]) were performed to assess efficacy and safety of topical anticholinergic glycopyrronium tosylate (GT) in pediatric patients.

Methods

Patients had primary axillary hyperhidrosis ≥ 6 months, average Axillary Sweating Daily Diary (ASDD/ASDD‐Children [ASDD‐C]) Item 2 (sweating severity) score ≥ 4, sweat production ≥ 50 mg/5 min (each axilla), and Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) ≥ 3. Coprimary end points were ≥ 4‐point improvement on ASDD/ASDD‐C Item 2 (a validated patient‐reported outcome) and change in gravimetrically measured sweat production at Week 4. Efficacy and safety data are shown through Week 4 for the pediatric (≥ 9 to ≤ 16 years) vs older (> 16 years) subgroups.

Results

Six hundred and ninety‐seven patients were randomized in ATMOS‐1/ATMOS‐2 (GT, N = 463; vehicle, N = 234); 44 were ≥ 9 to ≤ 16 years (GT, n = 25; vehicle, n = 19). Baseline disease characteristics were generally similar across subgroups. GT‐treated pediatric vs older patients had comparable improvements in ASDD/ASDD‐C Item 2 (sweating severity) responder rate, HDSS responder rate (≥ 2‐grade improvement]), sweat production, and quality of life (mean change from Baseline in Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI]/children's DLQI), with greater improvement vs vehicle. Treatment‐emergent adverse events were similar between subgroups, and most were mild, transient, and infrequently led to discontinuation.

Conclusions

Topical, once‐daily GT improved disease severity (ASDD/ASDD‐C, HDSS), sweat production, and quality of life (DLQI), with similar findings in children, adults, and the pooled population. GT was well tolerated, and treatment‐emergent adverse events were qualitatively similar between subgroups and consistent with other anticholinergics.