bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A possible link between KCNQ2‐ and STXBP1‐related encephalopathies: STXBP1 reduces the inhibitory impact of syntaxin‐1A on M current
Authors: Devaux Jérôme , Dhifallah Sandra , De Maria Michela , Stuart‐Lopez Geoffrey , Becq Hélène , Milh Mathieu , Molinari Florence , Aniksztejn Laurent 
Published: October 2017

SummaryObjectiveKv7 channels mediate the voltage‐gated M‐type potassium current. Reduction of M current due to KCNQ2 mutations causes early onset epileptic encephalopathies (EOEEs). Mutations in STXBP1 encoding the syntaxin binding protein 1 can produce a phenotype similar to that of KCNQ2 mutations, suggesting a possible link between STXBP1 and Kv7 channels. These channels are known to be modulated by syntaxin‐1A (Syn‐1A) that binds to the C‐terminal domain of the Kv7.2 subunit and strongly inhibits M current. Here, we investigated whether STXBP1could prevent this inhibitory effect of Syn‐1A and analyzed the consequences of two mutations in STXBP1 associated with EOEEs.MethodsElectrophysiologic analysis of M currents mediated by homomeric Kv7.2 or heteromeric Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells coexpressing Syn‐1A and/or STXBP1 or mutants STXBP1 p.W28* and p.P480L. Expression and interaction of these different proteins have been investigated using biochemical and co‐immunoprecipitation experiments.ResultsSyn‐1A decreased M currents mediated by Kv7.2 or Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels. STXBP1 had no direct effects on M current but dampened the inhibition produced by Syn‐1A by abrogating Syn‐1A binding to Kv7 channels. The mutation p.W28*, but not p.P480L, failed to rescue M current from Syn‐1A inhibition. Biochemical analysis showed that unlike the mutation p.W28*, the mutation p.P480L did not affect STXBP1 expression and reduced the interaction of Syn‐1A with Kv7 channels.SignificanceThese data indicate that there is a functional link between STXBP1 and Kv7 channels via Syn‐1A, which may be important for regulating M‐channel activity and neuronal excitability. They suggest also that a defect in Kv7 channel activity or regulation could be one of the consequences of some STXBP1 mutations associated with EOEEs. Furthermore, our data reveal that STXBP1 mutations associated with the Ohtahara syndrome do not necessarily result in protein haploinsufficiency.
Factors associated with the variability of calcineurin inhibitor blood levels in kidney recipients grafted for more than 1 year
Authors: Belaiche Stéphanie , Décaudin Bertrand , Dharancy Sébastien , Gautier Sophie , Noel Christian , Odou Pascal , Hazzan Marc 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe study of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) blood level variability to evaluate adherence in transplantation has improved over the years. The aim of our study was to assess factors associated with this variability using the coefficient of variation (CV). A cross‐sectional sample of kidney recipients grafted for more than 1 year was recruited. We recorded clinical data, data from a clinical pharmacist interview and from six questionnaires measuring adherence, satisfaction, behaviours, beliefs, perception of the illness and social vulnerability. A total of 408 recipients were enrolled (61.2% male, mean age 54) and divided into two groups: low variability CV < 30% (n = 302), high variability CV ≥ 30% (n = 106). In univariate analysis, hospital‐home distance, cyclosporine, time since transplantation and presence of discrepancies in drug regimen were associated with a greater risk of CV ≥ 30%. In contrast, tacrolimus QD conferred a lower risk of CV ≥ 30%. In multivariate analysis, only the presence of discrepancies remained significant: (OR 3.2 [1.21–9.01]; P = 0.022). Discrepancies in drug regimen appear as the main risk factor associated with CNI blood variability. The clinical pharmacist's input is an accurate and simple way of detecting non‐adherence which is not revealed in self‐report questionnaires.
Both hemispheric influenza vaccine recommendations would have missed near half of the circulating viruses in Madagascar
Authors: Guillebaud Julia , Héraud Jean‐Michel , Razanajatovo Norosoa H. , Livinski Alicia A. , Alonso Wladimir J. 
Published: October 2017

BackgroundInfluenza immunization still poses a critical challenge globally and specifically for tropical regions due to their complex influenza circulation pattern. Tropical regions should select the WHO's Northern Hemisphere or Southern Hemisphere recommended vaccine composition based on local surveillance. Analyses of influenza immunization effectiveness have neglected to account for the proportion of circulating viruses prevented from causing infection each year. We investigate this question for Madagascar, where influenza vaccines are not widely available.MethodsSeventy‐eight Malagasy influenza strains characterized from 2002 to 2014 were challenged with hypothetical scenarios in which the WHO's Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere recommended vaccine compositions were provided to the population. Match between circulating and vaccine strains was determined by haemagglutination inhibition assays. Strain‐specific positive matches were scored assuming 9 months of protection, and scenarios incorporated vaccine delays from zero to 5 months.ResultsMalagasy influenza strains matched 54% and 44%, respectively, with the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere recommended vaccine strains when the vaccine was delivered as soon as available. The matching values further decreased when additional delivery and application delays were considered. Differences between recommended compositions were not statistically significant.ConclusionOur results showed matching with the Northern Hemisphere vaccine barely above 50%, even in the more favourable scenario. This suggests that if implemented, routine influenza vaccines would not provide an optimal protection against half of the influenza strains circulating in any epidemic season of Madagascar. We suggest that this limitation in influenza vaccine efficacy deserves greater attention, and should be considered in cost/benefit analyses of national influenza immunization programmes.
Reduction of groin wound complications in vascular surgery patients using closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT): a prospective, randomised, single‐institution study
Authors: Pleger Sebastian P , Nink Nadine , Elzien Meshal , Kunold Alexander , Koshty Ahmed , Böning Andreas 
Published: October 2017

AbstractGroin wound infections in patients undergoing vascular procedures often cause a lengthy process of wound healing. Several clinical studies and case reports show a reduction of surgical site infections (SSIs) in various wound types after using closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT). The aim of this prospective, randomised, single‐institution study was to investigate the effectiveness of ciNPT (PREVENA™ Therapy) compared to conventional therapy on groin incisions after vascular surgery. From 1 February to 30 October 2015, 100 patients with 129 groin incisions were analysed. Patients were randomised and treated with either ciNPT (n = 58 groins) or the control dressing (n = 71 groins). ciNPT was applied intraoperatively and removed on days 5–7 postoperatively. The control group received a conventional adhesive plaster. Wound evaluation based on the Szilagyi classification took place postoperatively on days 5–7 and 30. Compared to the control group, the ciNPT group showed a significant reduction in wound complications (P < 0·0005) after both wound evaluation periods and in revision surgeries (P = 0·022) until 30 days postoperatively. Subgroup analysis revealed that ciNPT had a significant effect on almost all examined risk factors for wound healing. ciNPT significantly reduced the incidence of incision complications and revision procedures after vascular surgery.
Chemical modification at and within nanopowders: Synthesis of core‐shell Al2O3@TiON nanopowders via nitriding nano‐(TiO2)0.43(Al2O3)0.57 powders in NH3
Authors: You Fei , Sun Kai , Yi Eongyu , Nakatani Eitaro , Umehara Noritsugu , Laine Richard M. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractHere, we demonstrate the potential utility of using chemical modification to reorganize metastable nanoparticles into nanostructured nanoparticles without coincidentally inducing extensive necking/sintering. The motivation for this effort derives from the concept that chemical reduction in a single component in a mixed‐metal nanoparticle will create segregated islands of a second immiscible phase. Given the very high chemical energies inherent in nanoparticles, the formation of even smaller islands of a second phase can be anticipated to lead to extremely high interfacial energies that may drive these islands to diffuse to cores or surfaces to form core‐shell structures that minimize such interfacial energies. Thus, ammonolysis of (TiO2)0.43(Al2O3)0.57 composition nanopowders where both elements are approximately uniformly mixed at atomic length scales, under selected conditions (1000°C) for various periods of time at constant NH3 flow rates leads primarily to the reduction in the Ti species to form TiN or TiON which then appears to diffuse to the surface of the particles. The final products consist of Al2O3@TiON core‐shell nanopowders that remain mostly unaggregated pointing to a new mechanism for modifying nanopowder chemistries and physical properties.
Impact of obesity on annual medical expenditures and diabetes care in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kusunoki‐Tsuji Chisato , Araki Shin‐ichi , Kume Shinji , Chin‐Kanasaki Masami , Osawa Norihisa , Morino Katsutaro , Sekine Osamu , Ugi Satoshi , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Maegawa Hiroshi 
Published: October 2017

AbstractAims/IntroductionDiabetes and obesity are important health and economic concerns. We investigated the influence of obesity on diabetes control, the annual medical expenditures and medications in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes who were relatively lean in comparison with those in Western countries.Materials and MethodsA total of 402 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes were enrolled and their annual medical expenditures investigated. Obesity was defined as body mass index ≥25 kg/m2, according to the obesity classifications from the Japan Society for the Study of Obesity.ResultsA total of 165 patients (41.0%) were classified as obese. The obese group was younger, had poor glycemic control and higher frequency of hypertension than the non‐obese group. The median total annual medical expenditures for all participants was ¥269,333 (interquartile range ¥169,664–437,437), which was equivalent to approximately $US2,450. The annual medical expenditure was significantly higher in patients with obesity than in non‐obese patients (P < 0.001). This difference was mainly attributed to the annual expenditures for medication and hospitalization. In particular, the medication expenditures and the average number of drug classes for hyperglycemia and hypertension were significantly higher in the obese group.ConclusionsJapanese patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity had higher annual medical expenditures and a larger number of medications, but their diabetes control care was insufficient in comparison with those without obesity. Further studies are required to assess the effect of reducing bodyweight on diabetes control and costs.
Methods for Alleviating Stress and Increasing Resilience in the Midwifery Community: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Wright Erin M. , Matthai Maude Theo , Warren Nicole 
Published: October 2017

IntroductionWork‐related stress and exposure to traumatic birth have deleterious impacts on midwifery practice, the midwife's physiologic well‐being, and the midwifery workforce. This is a global phenomenon, and the specific sources of this stress vary dependent on practice setting. This scoping review aims to determine which, if any, modalities help to reduce stress and increase resilience among a population of midwives.MethodsA scoping review of the literature published between January 2011 and September 2016 using PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases was performed. Of the initial 796 reviewed records, 6 met inclusion criteria.ResultsThree of the 6 included studies were quantitative in nature, 2 were qualitative, and one used mixed methods. Countries where studies were conducted include Uganda, Iran, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Australia. Three of the studies used interventions for stress reduction and increased coping. Two of these 3 used a mindfulness‐based stress reduction program resulting in improved stress levels and coping skills. In each study, midwives express a desire for work‐based programs and support from colleagues and employers for increasing coping abilities. These studies focused on stress reduction and/or increasing resilience.DiscussionWhile modalities such as mindfulness‐based stress reduction show promise, further studies with a cohort of midwives should be conducted. These studies should include interventions aimed at addressing the needs of midwives to improve psychological outcomes related to employment‐related stress on a global scale and specific to each health care context.
Biomechanical Assessment of Restored Mandibular Molar by Endocrown in Comparison to a Glass Fiber Post‐Retained Conventional Crown: 3D Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Helal Mohammed Abu , Wang Zhigang 
Published: October 2017

AbstractPurposeTo compare equivalent and contact stresses in a mandibular molar restored by all‐ceramic crowns through two methods: ceramic endocrowns and ceramic crowns supported by fiber‐reinforced composite (FRC) posts and core, by using 3D finite element analysis during normal masticatory load.Materials and MethodsThree 3D models of a mandibular first molar were made and labeled as such: intact molar with no restoration (A); ceramic endocrown‐restored molar (B); ceramic crown supported by FRC posts and core restored molar (C). By using 3D FE analysis with contact components, normal masticatory load was simulated. The mvM stresses in all models were calculated. Maximal mvM stresses in the ceramic of restorations, dentin, and luting cement were contrasted among models and to values of materials' strength. Contact shear and tensile stresses in the restoration/tooth interface around restorations were also calculated.ResultsThe highest mvM stress levels in the enamel and dentin for the tooth restored by ceramic endocrown were lower in the crown ceramic than in tooth restored with FRC posts and all‐ceramic crowns; however, in the resin adhesive cement interface it was lower for ceramic crown supported by FRC posts than the in ceramic endocrown restoration. The maximum contact shear and tensile stress values along the restoration/tooth interface of ceramic endocrowns were lower than those with ceramic crowns supported by FRC posts.ConclusionsCeramic endocrown restorations presented a lower mvM stress level in dentin than the conventional ceramic crowns supported by FRC posts and core. Ceramic endocrown restorations in molars are less susceptible to damage than those with conventional ceramic crowns retained by FRC posts. Ceramic endocrowns properly cemented in molars must not be fractured or loosen during normal masticatory load. Therefore, ceramic endocrowns are advised as practicable, minimally invasive, and esthetic restorations for root canal treated mandibular molars.
Chitosan‐triclosan particles modulate inflammatory signaling in gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Pavez L. , Tobar N. , Chacón C. , Arancibia R. , Martínez C. , Tapia C. , Pastor A. , González M. , Martínez J. , Smith P. C. 
Published: October 2017

Background and ObjectivesAn important goal of periodontal therapy is the modulation of the inflammatory response. To this end, several pharmacological agents have been evaluated. Triclosan corresponds to an antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory agent currently used in periodontal therapy. Chitosan is a natural polymer that may act as a drug delivery agent and exerts antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory activities. Therefore, an association between both molecules might be useful to prevent inflammation and tissue destruction in periodontal tissues.Material and MethodsIn the present study, we have generated chitosan‐triclosan particles and evaluated their morphology, charge, biocompatibility and gene expression analysis in human gingival fibroblasts.ResultsThe chitosan‐triclosan particles size and Z potential were 129 ± 47 nm and 51 ± 17 mV respectively. Human gingival fibroblast viability was not affected by chitosan‐triclosan. A total of 1533 genes were upregulated by interleukin (IL)‐1β. On the other hand, 943 were downregulated in fibroblasts stimulated with IL‐1β plus chitosan‐triclosan particles. Fifty‐one genes were identified as molecular targets upregulated by IL‐1 β and downregulated by the chitosan‐triclosan particles. The gene ontology analysis revealed that these genes were enriched in categories related to biological processes, molecular function and cellular components. Furthermore, using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction beta‐actin, fibronectin, interleukin‐6 and IL‐1b genes were confirmed as targets upregulated by IL‐1β and downregulated by chitosan‐triclosan particles.ConclusionOur results show that chitosan‐triclosan particles are able to modulate the inflammatory response in gingival fibroblasts. This effect might be useful in the prevention and/or treatment of inflammation in periodontal diseases.
Possibilities for developing texture‐modified beef steaks suitable for older consumers using fruit‐derived proteolytic enzymes
Authors: Botinestean Cristina , Gomez Carolina , Nian Yingqun , Auty Mark A. E. , Kerry Joseph P. , Hamill Ruth M. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractMeat intakes in the older population are commonly reduced because the relatively tough texture of meat can impair mastication. Fruit‐derived proteolytic enzymes have been reported to have beneficial effects on tenderness, by causing significant degradation of myofibrillar proteins and collagen. Three treatments including: papain, bromelain, and a 50:50 mixture of papain/bromelain, alongside one control were applied to beef M. semitendinosus steaks. Effects on Warner‐Bratzler shear force, texture parameters, color, and cook loss were determined. Both enzymatic treatments that included papain significantly reduced Warner‐Bratzler shear force values (p < .05) and increased cook loss. Beef steaks tenderized with papain and papain/bromelain offer potential for inclusion in older consumers' diets, but improvement in tenderization may be associated with a reduction in processing yield.Practical applicationsMeat processors have a role to play in enhancing the availability of appropriate foodstuffs for older people, through developing targeted products that will meet the specialized nutritional and chemosensory needs of this cohort. Meat intakes in the older population are commonly reduced because the relatively tough texture of meat can impair mastication. In this study, beef steaks tenderized with papain and papain: bromelain (50:50) were demonstrated to produce more tender meat products, with a lower cook loss compared with tenderization with bromelain alone, which has relevance to the development of texture‐optimized meat products that appeal to older adults with difficulty in mastication. This information could help meat processors to develop strategies for optimization of texture‐modified beef products within their own businesses.
Dissolved Oxygen and Aeration in Ictalurid Catfish Aquaculture
Authors: Boyd Claude E. , Torrans Eugene L. , Tucker Craig S. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractFeed‐based production of ictalurid catfish in ponds is the largest aquaculture sector in the USA. Feed has an oxygen demand, and increases carbon dioxide, ammonia nitrogen, and phosphate inputs to ponds. Major sources of oxygen in ponds are phytoplankton photosynthesis and mechanical aeration; the major sink for oxygen is respiration by fish and by microorganisms in the water column and sediment. Dissolved oxygen concentrations decline when respiration exceeds photosynthesis, and the most crucial time for low dissolved oxygen concentration is at night. Mechanical aeration is applied to avoid nighttime dissolved oxygen concentrations from falling below the critical level for catfish of 3 mg/L. Electrically powered paddlewheel aerators are used by most catfish producers. The oxygen‐transfer efficiency of these aerators is known, but calculations of aeration requirement from stocking and feeding rates are not reliable because of variation in phytoplankton abundance and in weather conditions. Dissolved oxygen concentrations must be monitored, and when measurements suggest that nighttime dissolved oxygen concentration will be unacceptably low, tractor‐powered emergency aerators must be operated to supplement dedicated aeration. Dissolved oxygen concentration also is important in hatcheries, and small aeration systems have been developed for hatchery application.
Multiple hypotheses explain variation in extra‐pair paternity at different levels in a single bird family
Authors: Brouwer Lyanne , van de Pol Martijn , Aranzamendi Nataly Hidalgo , Bain Glen , Baldassarre Daniel T. , Brooker Lesley C. , Brooker Michael G. , Colombelli‐Négrel Diane , Enbody Erik , Gielow Kurt , Hall Michelle L. , Johnson Allison E. , Karubian Jordan , Kingma Sjouke A. , Kleindorfer Sonia , Louter Marina , Mulder Raoul A. , Peters Anne , Pruett‐Jones Stephen , Tarvin Keith A. , Thrasher Derrick J. , Varian‐Ramos Claire W. , Webster Michael S. , Cockburn Andrew 
Published: October 2017

AbstractExtra‐pair paternity (EPP), where offspring are sired by a male other than the social male, varies enormously both within and among species. Trying to explain this variation has proved difficult because the majority of the interspecific variation is phylogenetically based. Ideally, variation inEPPshould be investigated in closely related species, but clades with sufficient variation are rare. We present a comprehensive multifactorial test to explain variation inEPPamong individuals in 20 populations of nine species over 89 years from a single bird family (Maluridae). Females had higherEPPin the presence of more helpers, more neighbours or if paired incestuously. Furthermore, higherEPPoccurred in years with many incestuous pairs, populations with many helpers and species with high male density or in which males provide less care. Altogether, these variables accounted for 48% of the total and 89% of the interspecific and interpopulation variation inEPP. These findings indicate why consistent patterns inEPPhave been so challenging to detect and suggest that a single predictor is unlikely to account for the enormous variation inEPPacross levels of analysis. Nevertheless, it also shows that existing hypotheses can explain the variation inEPPwell and that the density of males in particular is a good predictor to explain variation inEPPamong species when a large part of the confounding effect of phylogeny is excluded.