bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyocyte Expression of ZO-1 Is Essential for Normal Atrioventricular Conduction but Does Not Alter Ventricular Function
Authors: Zhang Jianlin , Vincent Kevin P. , Peter Angela K. , Klos Matthew , Cheng Hongqiang , Huang Selina M. , Towne Jordan K. , Ferng Debbie , Gu Yusu , Dalton Nancy D. , Chan Yunghang , Li Ruixia , Peterson Kirk L. , Chen Ju , McCulloch Andrew D. , Knowlton Kirk U. , Ross Robert S. 
Published: April 2020

Rationale:
ZO-1 (Zonula occludens-1), a plasma membrane-associated scaffolding protein regulates signal transduction, transcription, and cellular communication. Global deletion of ZO-1 in the mouse is lethal by embryonic day 11.5. The function of ZO-1 in cardiac myocytes (CM) is largely unknown.

Objective:
To determine the function of CM ZO-1 in the intact heart, given its binding to other CM proteins that have been shown instrumental in normal cardiac conduction and function.

Methods and Results:
We generated ZO-1 CM-specific knockout (KO) mice using α-Myosin Heavy Chain-nuclear Cre (ZO-1cKO) and investigated physiological and electrophysiological function by echocardiography, surface ECG and conscious telemetry, intracardiac electrograms and pacing, and optical mapping studies. ZO-1cKO mice were viable, had normal Mendelian ratios, and had a normal lifespan. Ventricular morphometry and function were not significantly different between the ZO-1cKO versus control (CTL) mice, basally in young or aged mice, or even when hearts were subjected to hemodynamic loading. Atrial mass was increased in ZO-1cKO. Electrophysiological and optical mapping studies indicated high-grade atrioventricular (A-V) block in ZO-1cKO comparing to CTL hearts. While ZO-1-associated proteins such as vinculin, connexin 43, N-cadherin, and α-catenin showed no significant change with the loss of ZO-1, Connexin-45 and Coxsackie-adenovirus (CAR) proteins were reduced in atria of ZO-1cKO. Further, with loss of ZO-1, ZO-2 protein was increased significantly in ventricular CM in a presumed compensatory manner but was still not detected in the AV nodal myocytes. Importantly, the expression of the sodium channel protein NaV1.5 was altered in AV nodal cells of the ZO-1cKO versus CTL.

Conclusions:
ZO-1 protein has a unique physiological role in cardiac nodal tissue. This is in alignment with its known interaction with CAR and Cx45, and a new function in regulating the expression of NaV1.5 in AV node. Uniquely, ZO-1 is dispensable for function of the working myocardium.
Conventional and Complementary Healthcare Utilization Among US Adults With Cardiovascular Disease or Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: Kohl Wiebke Kathrin , Dobos Gustav , Cramer Holger 
Published: April 2020

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (
CVDs
) and their risk factors need guideline‐oriented treatment to provide the best benefit for patients. These guidelines include recommendations for regular checkups, realized by general medical practitioners. In addition, individuals with
CVD
or
CVD
risk factors tend to use complementary methods for their condition. There is limited information on the association between complementary healthcare utilization and the adherence to recommended conventional health care.

Methods and Results

In this cross‐sectional analysis of the nationally representative 2017 National Health Interview Survey (n=26 742; response rate 80.7%) we examined the prevalence of conventional and complementary healthcare utilization within the past 12 months in individuals with
CVD
and/or
CVD
risk factors and the interactions between the two categories of health care. Of all participants, 38.1% reported risk factors for
CVD
and 11.4% a
CVD
diagnosis (groups show an overlap). Overall prevalence of visits to conventional and complementary medicine providers and the use of mind–body medicine was high within the population analyzed. Individuals with
CVD
and/or
CVD
risk factors using complementary health care were as likely or more likely to consult general practitioners (
CVD
: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.17; 95% CI, 0.93–1.47;
CVD
risk: aOR, 1.21; 95%
CI
, 1.05–1.39) and medical specialists (
CVD
: aOR, 1.38; 95%
CI
, 1.17–1.64;
CVD
risk: aOR, 1.42; 95%
CI
, 1.28–1.58) than those not using complementary health care. Those using complementary health care were as likely to adhere to medical checkup as those not using complementary health care.

Conclusions
Complementary healthcare utilization use was not associated with a reduced adherence to conventional health care and recommended checkups. The potential positive association of complementary and conventional healthcare utilization needs to be confirmed in further studies.
An Empirical Investigation of the Use of Limitations to Freedom of Religion or Belief at the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Alves Pinto Thiago 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Most literature on freedom of religion or belief argues that there should be a high threshold for the imposition of limitations to the manifestation of the right. However, the practice of the European Court of Human Rights shows that the bar is much lower than academics suggest. This article explores this issue by analysing a plethora of cases and on the basis of interviews with lawyers connected to the Court. While the Court often considers the requirements of legality, legitimacy, and necessity, it does so briefly; focusing mostly on the analysis of proportionality and the margin of appreciation to the State in question. This approach makes the decisions exceedingly subjective and leads to little legal certainty in the area. Therefore, it is suggested that if the Court would analyse all criteria to impose limitations strictly, it could become more efficient while providing greater protection for persons to manifest their religion or belief.
Limitations Clauses, Evidence, and the Burden of Proof in the European Court of Human Rights
Authors: Gunn T. Jeremy 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Courts and tribunals involved in evaluating whether states have applied limitations clauses appropriately should pay increased attention to the core underlying issues of the parties’ respective burdens of proof, the standards of proof, and identifying which parties are required to prove which assertions. The European Court of Human Rights has not articulated with sufficient clarity the rules of evidence that apply to its proceedings, thereby permitting ad hoc and inconsistent evaluations of issues pertaining to the freedom of religion or belief. The Court should take seriously its obligation to clarify its standards and thereafter apply them.
Integrity of the pectineal ligament in MRI correlates with radiographic superior pubic ramus fracture displacement
Authors: Klengel Alexis , Steinke Hanno , Pieroh Philipp , Höch Andreas , Denecke Timm , Josten Christoph , Osterhoff Georg 
Published: April 2020

Background Estimating the stability of pelvic lateral compression fractures solely by static radiographs can be difficult. In this context, the role of anterior pelvic soft tissues as potential secondary stabilizer of the pelvic ring has hardly been investigated. Purpose To correlate the initial radiographic appearance of the pubic ramus fracture with the integrity of the pectineal ligament, a strong ligament along the pecten pubis. Material and Methods In total, 31 patients with a pelvic lateral compression fracture (AO/OTA 61- B1.1/B2.1) with 33 superior pubic ramus fractures and available post-traumatic radiographs (pelvis anteroposterior, inlet, outlet) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis with fat-suppressed coronal images were reviewed retrospectively. Radiographic superior pubic ramus fracture displacement was measured and correlated to the degree of MR-morphologic alterations of the pectineal ligament (grade 0 = intact, grade 3 = rupture). Results In the majority of fractures (72.7%), associated MR-morphologic alterations of the pectineal ligament were present. Radiographic displacement and MRI grading showed a strong positive correlation (Spearman rho = 0.783, P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity for a radiographic displacement of >3 mm on plain radiographs to detect a structural ligament lesion on MRI (grade 2 and higher) were 73% and 100%, respectively. Conclusion Radiographic displacement of superior pubic ramus fractures >3 mm is a strong indicator for a structural lesion of the pectineal ligament. Future studies should investigate the potential biomechanical importance of this ligament for pelvic ring stability.
Use of double-J ureteric stents post-laparoscopic pyeloplasty to treat ureteropelvic junction obstruction in hydronephrosis for pediatric patients: a single-center experience
Authors: Zhu Haobo , Wang Jun , Deng Yongji , Huang Liqu , Zhu Xiaojiang , Dong Jun , Sha Jintong , Gu Nannan , Ge Zheng , Ma Geng , Guo Yunfei , Zhang Aihua 
Published: April 2020

Objectives We aimed to investigate the safety concerns associated with placing double-J ureteric stents post-laparoscopic pyeloplasty surgery for congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) and hydronephrosis. Methods A total of 1349 patients with postoperative double-J stent placement at our center were included. Clinical variables for enrolled patients were collected by two independent authors. We compared clinical variables and the efficacy of stenting post-laparoscopic pyeloplasty. Results The mean age of the patients was 4.23 ± 2.39 years. A total of 58.49% of patients were diagnosed with left UPJO with hydronephrosis and 33.95% were diagnosed with right UPJO. Furthermore, 7.56% of patients had bilateral UPJO. In all cases, 96.96% of indwelling double-J stents were successfully removed 4 weeks post-surgery. A total of 3.04% of the patients still required further management, including stent migration to the renal pelvis (0.37%), stent migration to the bladder (0.30%), prolapse of the stent through the ureter (0.15%), blockage of stents (1.85%), and fouling of stents (0.37%). Conclusions Double-J ureteric stents used after laparoscopic pyeloplasty for treating UPJO in hydronephrosis for pediatric patients is a safe, feasible, and beneficial method, which can be recommended for routine procedures. However, caution should be practiced for follow-up and removal using this method.
FOXL2 expression might be a novel prognostic biomarker in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ge Jun , Jiang Li , Tian Yuke , Zheng Min , Huang Meiling , Li Juan 
Published: April 2020

Objectives This study aimed to explore the expression profile of the Forkhead box protein L2 gene ( FOXL2) and to determine its prognostic value and associated epigenetic and genetic alterations in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Materials and methods Data for a subset of patients with LSCC (N = 116) were extracted from the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma dataset of The Cancer Genome Atlas and analyzed in relation to FOXL2 expression and survival. Results Aberrant FOXL2 expression was an independent prognostic factor for progression-free survival (PFS) (hazard ratio (HR): 2.63, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34–5.18) and overall survival (OS) (HR: 2.39, 95%CI: 1.28–4.46). Two gene-body CpG sites (cg10554436 and cg23637494) were moderately and positively correlated with FOXL2 expression. DNA amplification (+2/+1) was common (82/115, 71%) in LSCC, and FOXL2 expression was significantly upregulated in the high-amplification group (+2) compared with copy-neutral (0) cases. Conclusion Aberrant FOXL2 expression may be a novel prognostic biomarker for PFS and OS among patients with LSCC. FOXL2 upregulation may be related to gene-body hypermethylation and DNA amplification.
Comparison of Occlusal Contact Changes During Retention Between Hawley-Type Retainers and Other Retention Appliances: A Systematic Review
Authors: B. Priya , Jain Ravindra Kumar , Chaturvedula Balavenkata Bharathi 
Published: April 2020

Background: Achieving adequate and broad occlusal contacts following orthodontic treatment usually is performed during retention phase, and it ensures good intercuspation of posterior teeth and post-treatment stability. Objective: To investigate the changes in occlusal contacts with the use of Hawley-type retainers (Hawley’s and wrap around retainers) and compare them with other retention appliances. Methods: The search included articles that were published until December 2018 in three popular databases. Selection criteria comprised studies evaluating number and area of occlusal contact changes during or at the end of retention phase, following orthodontic treatment. After study retrieval and selection, data extraction and individual study risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: A total sum of eight studies reporting on outcome comparison between Hawley-type retainers with other retention appliances and untreated controls were selected. In all the eight studies, the risk of bias was unclear since blinding and random sequence generation was not reported. In all the eight reported studies, it was concluded that the number of occlusal contacts improved during retention period with Hawley type retainers, but when comparisons were done in between retainers, only two studies reported that Hawley-type retainers were better. Conclusion: This systematic review concludes that the number and area of occlusal contacts improved during retention with Hawley-type retainers. The overall quality of available literature is poor and unclear to support the conclusion that Hawley-type retainers are better than other existing retainers in improving occlusal contacts.
Low Intensity Laser Influence on Orthodontic Movement: A Randomized Clinical and Radiographic Trial
Authors: Pereira Suelen Cristina da Costa , Avila Fabiola E. Alvarez , Pinzan Arnaldo , Lima Ludmila M. , Storniolo-Souza Juliana Moura , Janson Guilherme 
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Finding a method to decrease orthodontic treatment time has been a concern for several authors. This study evaluated, clinically and radiographically, the influence of low-level laser therapy on the rate of orthodontic movement and dental tissue integrity. Methods: The sample included 11 individuals with class I malocclusion, requiring extraction of 4 first premolars. Gallium aluminum arsenide diode laser with a wavelength of 780 nm was used once a month during retraction mechanics, to irradiate the maxillary and mandibular canines on one side and compare them with the nonirradiated contralateral side, after spring activation, until canine retraction was completed. This was followed by movement measurement. Periapical radiographs were used to check for possible modifications in the supporting tissues and root surface of the displaced canines. Results: No differences in the rate of tooth movement were found between the irradiated and nonirradiated side on both dental arches. There was no resorption of the root and/or alveolar bone crest, maintaining the integrity of these tissues. Conclusions: Low-level laser therapy did not promote an increment on the rate of tooth movement and did not cause greater root and alveolar bone crest resorption than on the nonirradiated side with the used protocol.
Online or offline? Coaching media as mediator of the relationship between coaching style and employee work-related outcomes
Authors: Hui Ray Tak-yin , Law Kuok Kei , Lau Sara Choi-Ping 
Published: April 2020

This article examines how leaders make use of different coaching media, namely face-to-face coaching and e-coaching, to coach and regulate the behavior and performance of followers. Specifically, we examine coaching medium as the mediator of the relationship between two coaching styles and three work outcomes (adaptive performance, creativity, and emotional exhaustion), based on a two-wave longitudinal field study of 114 employees in Hong Kong. The results of structural equation modeling show that the two coaching styles (guidance and facilitation coaching) are indirectly related to adaptive performance, creativity, and emotional exhaustion, as mediated by choice of coaching medium. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed. JEL Classification: M54, O32
Moral dilemmas involving anthropological and ethical dimensions in healthcare curriculum
Authors: Macpherson Ignacio , Roqué María Victoria , Segarra Ignacio 
Published: April 2020

Background Currently a variety of novel scenarios have appeared within nursing practice such as confidentiality of a patient victim of abuse, justice in insolvent patients, poorly informed consent delivery, non-satisfactory medicine outputs, or the possibility to reject a recommended treatment. These scenarios presuppose skills that are not usually acquired during the degree. Thus, the implementation of teaching approaches that promote the acquisition of these skills in the nursing curriculum is increasingly relevant. Objective The article analyzes an academic model which integrates in the curriculum a series of specific theoretical concepts together with practical skills to acquire the basic ethic assessment competency. Research design The project includes designing two subjects, General Anthropology and Ethics-Bioethics, with an applied approach in the nursing curriculum. The sequential structure of the curriculum in both subjects is constituted by three learning domains (theoretical, practical, and communicative) with different educational strategies. Ethical considerations No significant ethical considerations as this is a discussion paper. Findings The model was structured from the anthropology’s concepts and decision-making process, applied to real situations. The structure of the three domains theoretical–practical–communicative is present in each session. Discussion It is observed that theoretical domain fosters the capacity for critical analysis and subsequent ability to judge diverse situations. The practical domain reflected two significant difficulties: students’ resistance to internalizing moral problems and the tendency to superficial criticism. The communicative domain has frequently shown that the conflicting points are in the principles to be applied. Conclusion We conclude that this design achieves its objectives and may provide future nursing professionals with ethical competences especially useful in healthcare practice. The three domains of the presented scheme are associated with the same process used in decision making at individual levels, where the exercise of clinical prudence acquires particular relevance.
Capitalism after communism: The triumph of neoliberalism, nationalist reaction and waiting for the leftist wave
Authors: Żuk Piotr , Toporowski Jan 
Published: April 2020

AbstractWas neoliberal capitalism the only possible development path in Eastern Europe after the collapse of real socialism? How did the restoration of capitalism in the former Eastern bloc affect the economic and political situation in the world? Is the support of workers and lower classes for right-wing populists that has been observed in Eastern Europe for the past 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall a permanent phenomenon? By asking these questions, the authors point out that the offensive of the far right began in Europe before the 2015 migration crisis and the 2008 financial crisis, and that it coincided with the weakening of leftist workers’ parties. This process began in the 1990s after the collapse of the Eastern bloc. What can stop this process and change the situation? The solution is to show that another model is still possible: greater egalitarianism, democracy and the rule of law. This sociopolitical alternative, however, must simultaneously oppose two powerful forces: neoliberal capitalism and nationalist populism.
A novel homozygous frameshift variant in the cellular retinaldehyde-binding protein 1 (RLBP1) gene causes retinitis punctata albescens
Authors: Torres-Costa Sónia , Ferreira Carla Sofia , Grangeia Ana , Santos-Silva Renato , Brandão Elisete , Estrela-Silva Sérgio , Falcão-Reis Fernando 
Published: April 2020

Background Retinitis punctata albescens is a form of retinitis pigmentosa characterized by white fleck-like deposits in the fundus, in most cases caused by pathogenic variants in RLBP1 gene. The purpose of this work is to report the phenotypic and genotypic data of a patient with retinitis punctata albescens carrying a deletion in the RLBP1 gene. Results An 8-year-old Caucasian female has been complaining of nyctalopia for the last 2 years. No other ocular symptoms were present. No relevant past medical or familiar history was described. At clinical examination, the patient’s best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes. Anterior segment evaluation and intraocular pressure were normal in both eyes. At fundoscopy, multiple punctate whitish-yellow fleck-like lesions were observed in the proximity of temporal superior and inferior vascular arcades. Scotopic electroretinogram demonstrated severely reduced rod response, without improvement or recovery of rod system function after prolonged dark adaptation. Blood DNA samples of this patient and from her parents were screened for causal variants in RLBP1, RDH5, and PRPH2. Conclusion A probable pathogenic frameshift variant was identified in homozygosity in the RLBP1 gene with an autosomal recessive transmission as another cause of retinitis punctata albescens. This DNA variant will aid ongoing functional studies and add to our understanding of the molecular pathology about RLBP1-associated retinopathies.
Fast and sustained healing of resistant corneal ulcers using corneal scrubbing and matrix regenerating therapy
Authors: Lazreg Sihem , Labetoulle Marc , Renault Didier , Baudouin Christophe 
Published: April 2020

Aim The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of corneal scrubbing associated with matrix regenerating agent on corneal wound healing in patients with persistent corneal ulcers. Methods This was a retrospective case study in patients with difficult-to-treat corneal ulcer. Corneal scrubbing was performed with a sterile dry cotton bud to eliminate damaged epithelial cells and corneal deposits, promoting epithelial renewal. Regenerating agent was then administered as one eye drop every 2 days in addition to preservative-free ocular lubricants. A bandage contact lens was applied in case of moderate-to-severe corneal pain. Corneal ulcers were regularly assessed until healing. Results In total, 17 patients with a chronic corneal ulcer of various etiologies for several months on average were enrolled. Corneal scrubbing combined with regenerating agent administration led to a rapid corneal ulcer size reduction from 26.4 ± 20.6 mm2 after scrubbing (before regenerating agent) to 7.2 ± 7.1 mm2 at day 5, 3.3 ± 6.0 mm2 at day 10, and 0.9 ± 2.3 mm2 at day 18. Complete corneal ulcer healing was observed in 35.2% of patients within 10 days, in 70.4% within 18 days, and in all patients within 25 days. Corneal ulcer relapse was observed in two (11.8%) patients after 6 weeks and 5 months, respectively; both were successfully treated using the same procedure. The regenerating agent was well tolerated in all patients. Conclusion In this study, combined corneal scrubbing and matrix regenerating therapy (with or without bandage contact lens) led to a rapid healing and successful resolution of persisting corneal ulcers, including large and deep corneal ulcers.