bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of selective outcome reporting and trial registration practices among addiction clinical trials
Authors: Vassar Matt , Roberts William , Cooper Craig M. , Wayant Cole , Bibens Michael
Published: November 2019

Background and Aims

Selective outcome reporting occurs when trialists pre‐specify primary and secondary outcomes during trial planning but alter the definitions in the published report. Here, we investigate selective outcome reporting in published addiction randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and evaluate whether particular funding sources are associated with an increased likelihood of selective outcome reporting.

Design

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of published addiction clinical trials. A PubMed search was performed to identify RCTs in addiction journals from 2013 to 2017. Included studies used a randomized design to address one of the following topics: (1) drug, alcohol and tobacco addiction prevention, (2) stabilization following excessive use of a substance, (3) relapse prevention or (4) recovery maintenance.

Setting

Single‐center, medical research institution.

Participants

Our sample included 162 RCTs that were prospectively registered with a clearly defined primary outcome.

Measurement

We extracted the following items from addiction RCTs: journal, funding source, trial registry number (if included), sample size, dates of subject enrollment, whether primary and secondary outcomes were denoted, all published outcomes,P‐value for all outcomes and whether authors mentioned any deviations from the trial protocol as it related to RCT outcomes.

Findings

In total, 47 of 162 RCTs (29.0%) had at least one major discrepancy between the trial registry and published RCT. Overall, these 47 RCTs included 54 major discrepancies. The most common major discrepancy was demotion of a primary registered outcome (19/54, 35.2%). The majority of RCTs (132/162, 81.5%) were funded from public sources. Additionally, 166 RCTs were excluded from our sample because registration could not be confirmed.

Conclusions

There is evidence suggestive of selective outcome reporting in addiction randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The most common major discrepancies pertained to the primary outcome.
Prognostication accuracy of final destination in poststroke patients requiring transitional care
Authors: Iddagoda Mayura Thilanka , Inderjeeth Charles Anoopkumar , Chan Kien , Raymond Warren David
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Transitional care program in Australia targets older patients in hospitals requiring ongoing slow‐stream restorative care prior to discharge. Poststroke patients often require extended care and are transferred to these facilities. Transitional care providers require a predicted discharge destination. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of this prediction.

Methodology

This study included all patients transferred to transitional care from a stroke rehabilitation unit over eight years. Information regarding the predicted final discharge destination was collected from medical records, and the actual discharge destination was obtained from the transitional care registry.

Results

Final destination prediction was equivalent between medical and multidisciplinary teams (κ = 0.87). However, only 60% of the predictions were accurate. Subgroup analysis, as measured by the Modified Barthel Index, suggested that functional gain was a better predictor of final destination. Other characteristics, such as age, sex and type of stroke, did not demonstrate good correlation with the final destination.

Conclusion

Functional improvement, that is the Modified Barthel Index, is the best predictor of final destination after transitional care.
Rapid response teams to support dementia care in Australian aged care homes: Review of the evidence
Authors: Westera Anita , Fildes David , Grootemaat Pam , Gordon Rob
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To identify attributes of rapid response services designed to support people with very severe and extreme responsive behaviours, otherwise known as behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, in aged care homes.

Methods

A rapid evidence assessment was conducted to inform the evaluation of the Severe Behaviour Response Team (SBRT) service, including a targeted search of peer‐reviewed academic literature and an Internet‐based search of government, service provider, peak body and university websites.

Results

A number of localised rapid response services targeting people with similar clinical profiles were identified, but none operated on the scale of the SBRT. Five operational attributes in common were as follows: clearly defined parameters and processes; provision of clinical expertise and knowledge translation activities; person‐centred philosophy; relationship‐oriented approach to stakeholders; and generalisable and sustainable outcomes.

Conclusions

The five attributes provided a useful framework to guide the evaluation of the SBRT and clarify opportunities for continued service development.
Is androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer associated with cardiovascular disease? A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Liang Zhen , Zhu Jun , Chen Longlong , Xu Yawei , Yang Yongjiao , Hu Rui , Zhang Wei , Song Yuxuan , Lu Yi , Ou Ningjing , Liu Xiaoqiang
Published: November 2019

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is widely being applied in men who suffered from prostate cancer. Whether androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular‐related disease is poorly defined.

Objectives

The aim of the present meta‐analysis is to explore the relationship between ADT and the risk of cardiac events.

Materials and methods

For this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched databases from inception to April 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCT) or observational studies that reported data on ADT administration and cardiac event incidence. The connection was evaluated through estimating relative risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A significantly increased acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was detected in the ADT group compared with the control group (RR = 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02‐1.39, P < .05). A significant difference between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and ADT was also observed, with summary RR = 1.25, 95% CI, 1.11‐1.40, P < .05. Furthermore, our study also suggested ADT was not related to increased incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) (RR = 1.13, 95% CI, 0.92‐1.38, P = .24); AMI and CVD were not connected with the duration of ADT (AMI: RR = 1.31; 95% CI, 0.66‐2.63, P = .44, for > 5 year group; CVD: RR = 1.12, 95% CI, 0.97‐1.30, P = .12, for > 5 year group). In addition, the RR for risk of CVD was 1.28 (95% CI, 1.01‐1.62, P < .05) for men with PCa on new hormonal agents.

Discussion

Various ADT modalities have different impact on cardiovascular disease risk in different level. Long‐term application of ADT is not associated with increased risk of AMI and CVD. Both abiraterone and enzalutamide could significantly increase the incidence of cardiac events in patients who suffered from prostate cancer. Cautions and periodic cardiovascular elevation are necessary for patients before the ADT starting.

Conclusions

Androgen deprivation therapy is associated with increased risk of AMI, CHD, in contrast, this association is not detected in SCD.
Mindfulness‐Based Interventions for University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Dawson Anna F. , Brown William W. , Anderson Joanna , Datta Bella , Donald James N. , Hong Karen , Allan Sophie , Mole Tom B. , Jones Peter B. , Galante Julieta
Published: November 2019

Background

University students are expressing an increased need for mental health support. Mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) are being integrated into university stress‐reduction programmes globally. We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing MBI effects on university students’ mental and physical health.

Methods

We searched nine databases, including grey literature and trial registries. Two independent reviewers extracted data following a prospective public protocol.

Results

Fifty‐one RCTs were included. In comparison with passive controls, and when measured shortly after intervention completion, MBIs improve distress, anxiety, depression, well‐being, rumination, and mindfulness with small to moderate effect sizes, with no benefit found for blood pressure, sleep, life satisfaction, resilience, worry, and thought suppression. Evidence for self‐compassion is inconclusive. Effects last beyond three months for distress and mindfulness, with no data on other outcomes. Compared with active control groups, MBIs significantly improve distress and state anxiety, but not mindfulness, depression, well‐being, affect, trait anxiety, or emotion regulation. Results were robust to adjustment for multiple testing, but RCTs’ risk of bias is generally high. Moderator analyses did not find differential intervention effects according to intervention duration, delivery mode, or sub‐populations.

Conclusions

MBIs may be helpful to students but higher‐quality research is needed.
Estimating individualized treatment regimes from crossover designs
Authors: Nguyen Crystal T. , Luckett Daniel J. , Kahkoska Anna R. , Shearrer Grace E. , Spruijt‐Metz Donna , Davis Jaimie N. , Kosorok Michael R.
Published: November 2019

The field of precision medicine aims to tailor treatment based on patient‐specific factors in a reproducible way. To this end, estimating an optimal individualized treatment regime (ITR) that recommends treatment decisions based on patient characteristics to maximize the mean of a prespecified outcome is of particular interest. Several methods have been proposed for estimating an optimal ITR from clinical trial data in the parallel group setting where each subject is randomized to a single intervention. However, little work has been done in the area of estimating the optimal ITR from crossover study designs. Such designs naturally lend themselves to precision medicine since they allow for observing the response to multiple treatments for each patient. In this paper, we introduce a method for estimating the optimal ITR using data from a 2 × 2 crossover study with or without carryover effects. The proposed method is similar to policy search methods such as outcome weighted learning; however, we take advantage of the crossover design by using the difference in responses under each treatment as the observed reward. We establish Fisher and global consistency, present numerical experiments, and analyze data from a feeding trial to demonstrate the improved performance of the proposed method compared to standard methods for a parallel study design.
Monetary policy under a multiple‐tool environment
Authors: Varlik Serdar , Berument M. Hakan
Published: November 2019

Since the 2008 global financial crisis, central banks have been using a new set of policy tools in addition to conventional tools (such as short‐term interest rates) to conduct monetary policy. This paper employs a methodology that captures 25 of these tools with a limited number of factors for Turkey. Due to a set of factors such as the high volatility of inflation, market‐friendly financial architecture and its size, Turkey provides a unique environment to capture these factors and their effects on economic performance. The three factors identified here can be categorized as interest rate, central bank foreign exchange position and liquidity. The empirical evidence reveals that these three factors affect all the economic‐state variables considered in the paper in different directions and magnitudes.
Clinical relevance of St. John's wort drug interactions revisited
Authors: Nicolussi Simon , Drewe Jürgen , Butterweck Veronika , Meyer zu Schwabedissen Henriette E.
Published: November 2019

The first clinically relevant reports of preparations of St. John's wort (SJW), a herbal medicine with anti‐depressant effects, interacting with other drugs, altering their bioavailability and efficacy, were published about 20 years ago. In 2000, a pharmacokinetic interaction between SJW and cyclosporine caused acute rejection in two heart transplant patients. Since then, subsequent research has shown that SJW altered the pharmacokinetics of drugs such as digoxin, tacrolimus, indinavir, warfarin, alprazolam, simvastatin, or oral contraceptives. These interactions were caused by pregnane‐X‐receptor (PXR) activation. Preparations of SJW are potent activators of PXR and hence inducers of cytochrome P450 enzymes (most importantly CYP3A4) and P‐glycoprotein. The degree of CYP3A4 induction correlates significantly with the hyperforin content in the preparation. Twenty years after the first occurrence of clinically relevant pharmacokinetic drug interactions with SJW, this review revisits the current knowledge of the mechanisms of action and on how pharmacokinetic drug interactions with SJW could be avoided.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on The Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.6/issuetoc
The changing place of condominiums across a metropolitan area, 1970–2015
Authors: Harris Richard , Rose Geoff
Published: November 2019

By definition, all condominiums share social features and challenges of governance, but they have inspired two separate narratives: as suburban, often gated, communities and as downtown high‐rises or conversions. In Canada, as elsewhere, research has focused on large urban areas, neglecting subtly different dynamics in smaller centres. The purpose of this case study of mid‐sized Hamilton, Ontario, was to assess whether and how those dynamics are different across a whole metro area, using newspapers and building permit data. It tracks the changing place of condo developments and conversions across Hamilton since 1970. For decades, most developments were suburban town (row) houses; since 2000, downtown revival has included conversions and taller, new‐build projects. It argues that early developments and conversions reflected a “value gap” in relation to purpose‐built rental apartments. Led by a migrant arts community, recent centralization has exploited an inner‐city “rent gap,” coupled with a popular reassessment of urban living.
Assessment of vertical ridge augmentation and marginal bone loss using autogenous onlay vs inlay grafting techniques with simultaneous implant placement in the anterior maxillary esthetic zone: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: El Zahwy Mohamed , Taha Said Abd allah K. , Mounir Ragia , Mounir Mohamed
Published: November 2019

Background

Bony reconstruction and dental rehabilitation of patients with posttraumatic anterior maxillary alveolar defects is a very complicated procedure. The aim of this study is the assessment of vertical ridge augmentation using autogenous onlay vs inlay bone grafting techniques in the anterior maxilla.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen patients (40 implants) with vertically deficient anterior maxillary alveolar ridges were equally allocated into two groups; Autogenous block bone graft was harvested from the chin with simultaneous implant placement was done either onlay (control) or inlay (study). Radiographic assessment was performed preoperatively, 1 week and 6 months postoperatively. Assessment included measurements of linear changes in the vertical height on cross sectional cuts of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) using special software. Finally, the amount of vertical gain and marginal bone loss in each group was compared to that of the other.

Results

Wound healing was uneventful for all cases except three cases of the onlay group showed wound breakdown and graft loss. The mean vertical bone gain in the control group was −0.02 mm while in the study was 3.34 mm. While the mean of the crestal bone loss of the control group was 4.77 mm and that of the study group was 1.65 mm.

Conclusion

The final vertical bone gain was statistically significant in the study group, so the inlay bone grafting technique with immediate implant placement could be used successfully for vertical alveolar ridge augmentation in the esthetic zone.
Prevalence and factors associated with traumatic dental injuries among schoolchildren in war‐torn Libya
Authors: Arheiam Arheiam A. , Elareibi Iman , Elatrash Aymen , Baker Sarah R.
Published: November 2019

Background/Aims

No previous epidemiological study has investigated the prevalence and associated factors of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) among Libyan children. Such information is required for the planning and evaluation of health services. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of TDIs and associated factors among 12‐year‐old schoolchildren in Benghazi, Libya.

Methods

Data for this study were collected as part of a comprehensive, cross‐sectional survey investigating oral health status and treatment needs of 12‐year‐old schoolchildren in Benghazi, Libya, between December 2016 and May 2017. Sociodemographic information was collected through a dental health questionnaire. The children were assessed for oral health status, including TDIs according to modified World Health Organization (WHO) classification criteria, in their classroom by trained and calibrated examiners. Anthropometric measures, lip competence and overjet were all assessed and reported. History of TDIs was sought among those affected. Logistic regression models were applied for TDIs as an outcome variable. The statistical significance for all tests was ≤0.05.

Results

Data from 1134 participants were included in this study. TDIs were observed in 10.3% of the sample. Most of these TDIs were enamel fractures only (55.6%) and enamel and dentine fractures (35.9%). “Falling” was the most common cause of TDIs, accounting for 51% of cases. While increased overjet appeared to be associated with higher risk of TDIs (OR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.29‐2.86), being female (OR: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.22‐0.53) and overweight (OR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.13‐0.83) were also associated with lower risk of having TDIs.

Conclusions

This survey showed that a considerable proportion (10.3%) of 12‐year‐old Libyan children had TDIs, with relatively high unmet treatment needs. More efforts are required to develop effective prevention programmes and to enhance the provision of dental treatment of TDIs for Libyan children.
Ability of micaceous minerals to adsorb and desorb caesium ions: Effects of mineral type and degree of weathering
Authors: Kitayama Rikuo , Yanai Junta , Nakao Atsushi
Published: November 2019

To evaluate the effects of type of micaceous mineral and degree of weathering on the ability to adsorb and desorb radiocaesium (RCs) ions, various levels of weathering were induced (K‐depletion) in three types of micaceous minerals: biotite, muscovite and illite. The ability to adsorb RCs was represented by RCs interception potential (RIP) and a desorption ratio was determined by the amount of 137Cs desorbed from the minerals by 1 M ammonium acetate (137Cs desorption ratio). The RIP values were in the order of illite > biotite > muscovite. The RIP values for biotite gradually increased with the release of up to ~50% of the K+ from interlayer sites but then decreased with the further release of K+, up to ~100%, which was associated with the formation of a fully expanded interlayer: vermiculite. The change from increasing to decreasing RIP due to the weathering of the biotite strongly indicated that the selective adsorption sites for RCs are not located in an expanded interlayer but in intermediate sites between non‐expanded and expanded interlayers: frayed edge sites (FES). In contrast, for both the muscovite and illite, the RIP only increased. The 137Cs desorption ratio, <7% for all the samples, tended to decrease with increasing degrees of weathering and did not differ greatly by mineral type. These results contribute to a more accurate prediction of the risk of RCs transfer from soils to crops and the understanding of the weathering processes of micaceous minerals in soils.

Highlights

Radiocaesium adsorption and desorption was investigated for gradually K‐removed biotite, muscovite and illite.

Vermiculitization of biotite via K removal firstly increased then decreased the frayed edge sites (FES).

Adsorption was influenced by di/trioctahedral character and charge localization, and desorption by degree of weathering.

These results lead to better understanding of the weathering processes of micaceous minerals and fate of RCs in soils.
Dialysis‐associated allergic reactions during continuous renal replacement therapy and hemodialysis: A case report
Authors: Chen Dhruti P. , Flythe Jennifer E.
Published: November 2019

Dialyzer reactions are long‐appreciated complications of dialysis. Despite advances in dialysis machines and membranes, these life‐threatening reactions still occur. It is imperative to recognize potential dialyzer reactions when assessing adverse dialysis events as reexposure to dialytic treatments could be life threatening. We present the case of a 72‐year old woman with dialysis‐requiring anuric acute kidney injury who experienced acute hypotension and cardiopulmonary arrest during both continuous renal replacement therapy and a subsequent hemodialysis treatment. We concluded that she had an anaphylactic reaction to an unidentified component of the dialysis equipment. Identification, work up, treatment, and reporting of dialyzer reactions are discussed in the context of this case.
An image‐based mapping of significance and relevance of facial skin colour changes of females living in Thailand
Authors: Séroul P. , Campiche R. , Gougeon S. , Cherel M. , Rawlings A.V. , Voegeli R.
Published: November 2019

Objective

There are methods to evaluate skin colour on defined areas over the face but no approach automatically and accurately evaluates skin colour variations on large facial areas, comparing subjects, treatments and/or time points. We propose such an image‐based approach to visualize quickly the outcome of clinical studies on colour variations.

Methods

Among 54 Asian women, one group applied a vehicle twice daily, during 28 days, and the other group an anti‐ageing emulsion, taking facial images at baseline and after treatment. Changes in L*a*b* values were studied on four pre‐selected facial regions. We also reconstructed average facial images from which the L*a*b* parameters were extracted for every pixel, computing relevance (ΔE) and significance data. Using colour gradients, we mapped these results onto the average facial images.

Results

After treatment, L*a*b* parameters show no statistically relevant colour changes in the vehicle group. In the ‘active’ group, skin was lighter at the upper cheek and, overall, redness decreased. Relevance and significance maps confirmed no visible colour changes in the vehicle group. In the ‘active’ group, the mapping approach revealed colour changes and their location. Skin became lighter below the eye, cheek and forehead. It was less red below the eyes, on the cheek, jawline and forehead, and generally more yellow.

Conclusion

Our image‐based mapping approach proves to be powerful. It enables us to identify precise facial regions of relevant and statistically significant colour changes after a topical treatment, regions that would have otherwise been undetected.
Nationwide survey of endogenous hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in Japan (2017–2018): Congenital hyperinsulinism, insulinoma, non‐insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome and insulin autoimmune syndrome (Hirata’s disease)
Authors: Yamada Yuki , Kitayama Kana , Oyachi Maki , Higuchi Shinji , Kawakita Rie , Kanamori Yutaka , Yorifuji Tohru
Published: November 2019

Aims/Introduction

We aimed to investigate the nationwide incidence, treatment details and outcomes of patients with endogenous hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (EHH), including those with transient/persistent congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI), insulinoma, non‐insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome and insulin autoimmune syndrome (Hirata’s disease) in Japan.

Materials and Methods

A nationwide, questionnaire‐based survey was carried out to determine the number of patients with EHH who were treated for hypoglycemia or hypoglycemia‐related complications in 2017−2018. The questionnaires were sent to all hospitals in Japan with >300 beds, and with pediatric and/or adult clinics likely managing EHH patients. The secondary questionnaires were sent to obtain the patients’ date of birth, sex, age at onset, treatment details and post‐treatment outcomes.

Results

A total of 447 patients with CHI (197 transient CHI, 225 persistent CHI and 25, unknown histology), 205 with insulinoma (118 benign, 18 malignant and 69 unknown subtype), 111 with non‐insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome (33 post‐gastric surgery HH, 57 postprandial HH, 10 nesidioblastosis and 11 unknown subtype) and 22 with insulin autoimmune syndrome were identified. Novel findings included: (i) marked improvement in the prognosis of persistent CHI over the past 10 years; (ii) male dominance in the incidence of transient CHI; (iii) non‐insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome emerging as the second most common form of EHH in adults; (iv) frequent association of diabetes mellitus with insulin autoimmune syndrome; and (v) frequent post‐treatment residual hypoglycemia and impaired quality of life.

Conclusions

The first nationwide, all age group survey of EHH showed the current status of each type of EHH disorder and the unmet needs of the patients.
Business dynamics statistics of High Tech industries
Authors: Goldschlag Nathan , Miranda Javier
Published: November 2019

Modern market economies are characterized by the reallocation of resources from less productive, less valuable activities to more productive, more valuable ones. Businesses in the High Tech sector play a particularly important role in this reallocation by introducing new products and services that impact the entire economy. In this paper we describe an extension to the Census Bureau's Business Dynamics Statistics that tracks job creation, job destruction, startups, and exits by firm and establishment characteristics, including sector, firm age, and firm size in the High Tech sector. We preview the resulting statistics, showing the structural shifts in the High Tech sector over the past 30 years, including the surge of entry and young firm activity in the 1990s that reversed abruptly in the early‐2000s.
Sphingosine 1‐phosphate but not Fingolimod protects neurons against excitotoxic cell death by inducing neurotrophic gene expression in astrocytes
Authors: Tran Collin , Heng Benjamin , Teo Jonathan D. , Humphrey Sean J. , Qi Yanfei , Couttas Timothy A. , Stefen Holly , Brettle Merryn , Fath Thomas , Guillemin Gilles J. , Don Anthony S.
Published: November 2019

Sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) is an essential lipid metabolite that signals through a family of five G protein‐coupled receptors, S1PR1‐S1PR5, to regulate cell physiology. The multiple sclerosis drug Fingolimod (FTY720) is a potent S1P receptor agonist that causes peripheral lymphopenia. Recent research has demonstrated direct neuroprotective properties of FTY720 in several neurodegenerative paradigms; however, neuroprotective properties of the native ligand S1P have not been established. We aimed to establish the significance of neurotrophic factor up‐regulation by S1P for neuroprotection, comparing S1P with FTY720. S1P induced brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), platelet‐derived growth factor B (PDGFB), and heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factor (HBEGF) gene expression in primary human and murine astrocytes, but not in neurons, and to a much greater extent than FTY720. Accordingly, S1P but not FTY720 protected cultured neurons against excitotoxic cell death in a primary murine neuron‐glia coculture model, and a neutralizing antibody to LIF blocked this S1P‐mediated neuroprotection. Antagonists of S1PR1 and S1PR2 both inhibited S1P‐mediated neurotrophic gene induction in human astrocytes, indicating that simultaneous activation of both receptors is required. S1PR2 signaling was transduced through Gα13 and the small GTPase Rho, and was necessary for the up‐regulation and activation of the transcription factors FOS and JUN, which regulate LIF, BDNF, and HBEGF transcription. In summary, we show that S1P protects hippocampal neurons against excitotoxic cell death through up‐regulation of neurotrophic gene expression, particularly LIF, in astrocytes. This up‐regulation requires both S1PR1 and S1PR2 signaling. FTY720 does not activate S1PR2, explaining its relative inefficacy compared to S1P.

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Effect of a sphingolipid‐mimetic compound on the promotion of hair growth: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Lee Weon Ju , Sohng Chihyeon , Kim Jun Young , Park Kyung Duck , Jang Yong Hyun , Lee Seok‐Jong
Published: November 2019

Background

Pattern hair loss is a very common skin disorder, but more therapeutic modalities for hair growth are still required.

Objective

We investigated the effect of a newly synthesized sphingolipid‐mimetic compound (pseudo‐ceramide: bis‐oleamide isopropyl alcohol [BOI]) on the promotion of hair growth for patients with mild pattern hair loss.

Methods

A total of 58 patients with mild pattern hair loss participated in this clinical trial. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was conducted for 6 months. Participants in the experimental group applied 1% BOI lotion (ceramide HS) on the whole scalp once a day for 6 months. Participants in the control group applied simulacrum using the same protocol. We evaluated daily hair loss, hair density, hair thickness, and hair length at intervals of 3 months; patient satisfaction and adverse events were evaluated at 6 months.

Results

At 6 months in the experimental group, daily hair loss at baseline (52.52 ± 33.98) decreased to 40.41 ± 24.78, vertex hair density at baseline (131.07 ± 43.73) increased to 156.00 ± 39.59, frontal hair density at baseline (104.21 ± 30.72) increased to 124.10 ± 28.28, thickness of vertex hair at baseline (0.067 ± 0.012 cm) increased to 0.075 ± 0.014 cm, thickness of frontal hair at baseline (0.070 ± 0.009 cm) increased to 0.076 ± 0.012 cm, and hair growth rate was 16.17 ± 1.89 mm/month.

Conclusion

Ceramide HS may be a new candidate for the treatment of pattern hair loss.
(THE IMAGE OF) GOD IN ALL OF US
Authors: Alexander Laura E.
Published: November 2019

This essay compares Sikh and Christian thought about and practices of hospitality in light of the global refugee crisis. It aims to show how both practices of hospitality, and religious ethical thought about hospitality, can be enhanced by dialogue between traditions. The refugee crisis arises out of a global failure of hospitality, and the type of hospitality refugees most fundamentally need is that which confers membership in a political community. Comparing Christian and Sikh ethics of hospitality provides guidance toward building rooted religious communities that welcome outsiders, including by incorporating them into political communities. In particular, Christians who hold social power and privilege can better fulfill ethical mandates of hospitality by looking to the example of Sikhs and other marginalized groups. Sikhs have often built communities through acts of hospitality and welcomed outsiders without fear, even in contexts where their own belonging is questioned and their own security is under threat.
Reason with Baggage
Authors: Milevsky Jonathan
Published: November 2019

In this article I show that David Novak's natural law theory precedes his encounter with Judaism. That is to say, the theory is the product of a theological viewpoint consisting of three components—createdness, commandedness, and response—that is then found by Novak in a number of areas of Jewish thought and practice that admit of the same three parts. As a result of this interpretation, I posit that Paul Nahme, who argues for a pragmatic reading of Novak's theory, as well as Martin Kavka and Randi Rashkover, who offer a political understanding of it, do not account for the theological richness and metaphysical basis of Novak's natural law theology.
Recentering Christian Ethics as Comparative Religious Ethics
Authors: Ilesanmi Simeon O.
Published: November 2019

The filial relationship between Christian ethics and Comparative Religious Ethics (CRE) need not be perniciously distortive and can be salutary for comparative work. I suggest that the suspicions about CRE as a disguised form of a “Christian ethical enterprise” are overstated and that we can appreciate the value of the legacy of Christian ethics for comparative work in the focal themes of emancipatory criticism and common morality. Both of these themes, even if influenced by Christian ethics, reflect more universal social‐moral problems that can be discerned in cross‐cultural contexts.
Exploring New and Renewed Eco‐Spiritualities
Authors: Stewart‐Kroeker Sarah
Published: November 2019

This essay discusses five recent books, written in French, that contribute to refection in environmental ethics. Francophone literature on the topic is marked by resonant and divergent concerns, and rooted in a geography, politics, and history different from North America and marked by distinctive lines of intellectual influence. Jean‐Claude Eslin proposes recovering ecological resources from the Christian tradition and also suggests imagining new images of God: notably, God as pilote rather than artisan. Dominique Bourg takes a multi‐disciplinary approach that emphasizes the spiritual conditions for relating to the world ecologically and economically; he argues for sobriété (austerity) as a spiritual disposition and an economic model. Baptiste Morizot develops diplomacy as an ethical, political, and spiritual model for cohabiting with wolves, whose return to the French countryside has been highly controversial. Nastassja Martin offers an anthropological study of the indigenous Gwich’in community of Fort Yukon, Alaska that accentuates the mix of Protestant missional influences and Gwich’in spiritual affirmations and practices at play in their relationship to the nonhuman world. Attending to this literature may helpfully decenter anglophone debates and enrich their conceptual vocabulary.
Melatonin ameliorates SGLT2 inhibitor‐induced diabetic ketoacidosis by inhibiting lipolysis and hepatic ketogenesis in type 2 diabetic mice
Authors: Park Jae‐Hyung , Seo Incheol , Shim Hae‐min , Cho Hochan
Published: November 2019

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are effective hypoglycemic agents that can induce glycosuria. However, there are increasing concerns that they might induce diabetic ketoacidosis. This study investigated the effect of melatonin on SGTL2i‐induced ketoacidosis in insulin‐deficient type 2 diabetic (T2D) mice. The SGLT2i dapagliflozin reduced blood glucose level and plasma insulin concentrations in T2D mice, but induced increases in the concentrations of plasma β‐hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and free fatty acid and a decrease in the concentration of plasma bicarbonate, resulting in ketoacidosis. Melatonin inhibited dapagliflozin‐induced ketoacidosis without inducing any change in blood glucose level or plasma insulin concentration. In white adipose tissue, melatonin inhibited lipolysis and downregulated phosphorylation of PKA, HSL, and perilipin‐1. In liver tissue, melatonin suppressed cellular cyclic AMP levels and downregulated phosphorylation of PKA, AMPK, and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC). In addition, melatonin increased hepatic ACC activity, but decreased hepatic CPT1a activity and acetyl‐CoA content. These effects of melatonin on lipolysis and hepatic ketogenesis were blocked by pretreatment with melatonin receptor antagonist or PKA activator. Collectively, these results suggest that melatonin can ameliorate SGLT2i‐induced ketoacidosis by inhibiting lipolysis and hepatic ketogenesis though cyclic AMP/PKA signaling pathways in T2D mice. Thus, melatonin treatment may offer protection against SGLT2i‐induced ketoacidosis.
Linking mineralogy and spectroscopy of highly aqueously alteredCMandCIcarbonaceous chondrites in preparation for primitive asteroid sample return
Authors: Bates H. C. , King A. J. , Donaldson Hanna K. L. , Bowles N. E. , Russell S. S.
Published: November 2019

The highly hydrated, petrologic type 1CMandCIcarbonaceous chondrites likely derived from primitive, water‐rich asteroids, two of which are the targets forJAXA's Hayabusa2 andNASA'sOSIRIS‐REx missions. We have collected visible and near‐infrared (VNIR) and mid infrared (MIR) reflectance spectra from well‐characterizedCM1/2,CM1, andCI1 chondrites and identified trends related to their mineralogy and degree of secondary processing. The spectral slope between 0.65 and 1.05 μm decreases with increasing total phyllosilicate abundance and increasing magnetite abundance, both of which are associated with more extensive aqueous alteration. Furthermore, features at ~3 μm shift from centers near 2.80 μm in the intermediately alteredCM1/2 chondrites to near 2.73 μm in the highly alteredCM1 chondrites. The Christiansen features (CF) and the transparency features shift to shorter wavelengths as the phyllosilicate composition of the meteorites becomes more Mg‐rich, which occurs as aqueous alteration proceeds. Spectra also show a feature near 6 μm, which is related to the presence of phyllosilicates, but is not a reliable parameter for estimating the degree of aqueous alteration. The observed trends can be used to estimate the surface mineralogy and the degree of aqueous alteration in remote observations of asteroids. For example, (1) Ceres has a sharp feature near 2.72 μm, which is similar in both position and shape to the same feature in the spectra of the highly alteredCM1MIL05137, suggesting abundant Mg‐rich phyllosilicates on the surface. Notably, bothOSIRIS‐REx and Hayabusa2 have onboard instruments which cover theVNIRandMIRwavelength ranges, so the results presented here will help in corroborating initial results from Bennu and Ryugu.
Acquiring mathematical concepts: The viability of hypothesis testing
Authors: Buijsman Stefan
Published: November 2019

Can concepts be acquired by testing hypotheses about these concepts? Fodor famously argued that this is not possible. Testing the correct hypothesis would require already possessing the concept. I argue that this does not generally hold for mathematical concepts. I discuss specific, empirically motivated, hypotheses for number concepts that can be tested without needing to possess the relevant number concepts. I also argue that one can test hypotheses about the identity conditions of other mathematical concepts, and then fix the application conditions based on those hypotheses—under the assumption that the neo‐logicist view on abstraction principles is correct.
Resistance profile and molecular characterization of pyrethroid resistance in a Rhipicephalus microplus strain from Colombia
Authors: Villar D. , Klafke G. M. , Rodríguez‐Durán A. , Bossio F. , Miller R. , Pérez de León A. A. , Cortés‐Vecino J. A. , Chaparro‐Gutiérrez J. J.
Published: November 2019

Intensive use of chemical acaricides for the control of cattle ticks (Rhipicephalus microplus) has led to the development of multiple acaricide resistance in Colombia. The present study aimed to characterize, using toxicological bioassays and molecular biology techniques, the resistance profile of a tick strain isolated from the Arauca state, Northeast Colombia. Commercial acaricides were used in adult immersion tests to determine its in vitro efficacies. Deltamethrin showed very low activity (4–7.3%), a mixture of cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos had intermediate efficacy (64–75.2%), and ethion presented the highest activity (88.5–100%). A colony (Arauquita strain) was established and larval immersion tests confirmed high resistance level to deltamethrin (241‐fold) and susceptibility to ivermectin. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction‐high resolution melt technique was used to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the para‐sodium channel gene. All of the genotyped individuals were mutant, presenting one (n = 7), two (n = 7) or three (n = 9) SNPs previously associated with pyrethroid resistance. Sequencing revealed a novel mutation (F712L), that was found for the first time in R. microplus ticks from South America. This is the first description of mutations associated with pyrethroid resistance in R. microplus from Colombia. The acaricide resistance pattern found in the Arauquita strain is similar to other parts of Colombia.
Genetic characterization of anemone‐type chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) using floral morphology and SRAP markers
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Ao Ni , Qu Yixin , Wu Yangyang , Su Jiangshuo , Ding Lian , Chen Sumei , Jiang Jiafu , Guan Zhiyong , Chen Fadi , Fang Weimin , Zhang Fei
Published: November 2019

An appreciation of the genetic diversity retained in the gene pool of anemone‐type chrysanthemums is needed to drive further genetic improvement of this commercially important ornamental species. Here, a panel of 67 accessions was characterized with respect to both floral morphology, assessed using a set of 12 inflorescence‐associated traits, and to genotype, using sequence‐related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) fingerprinting. Abundant variation and a high level of broad‐sense heritability (>88%) were revealed for all traits except number of tubular floret lobes. Of the possible 66 pairwise inter‐trait combinations, 37 proved to be significantly correlated. A principal component analysis of the trait data showed that the first four principal components explained ~78% of the variance; meanwhile a hierarchical clustering analysis revealed a number of discrete groups reflecting the various cultivated types, but was not predictive of provenance. The SRAP genotyping employed 22 primer combinations and generated 238 informative fragments. A moderately high level of the Jaccard's similarity coefficient (mean 0.67) was calculated for the examined panel. A hierarchical clustering analysis based on the genotypic data revealed four groups, which were clearly reflective of cultivated type; moreover, a comparison of the within‐cluster means for each of the two key anemone‐related traits—tubular floret length and tubular floret length/style length—showed that the genotype‐based clusterings were associated with the anemone levels, albeit imperfectively. A principal coordinate analysis showed that the first two coordinates accounted for about 14% of the total variation. In summary, the present study adds new understanding of the genetic diversity present in the anemone‐type chrysanthemum gene pool, and the findings will lay the foundation for implementing a genotype/phenotype association strategy to reveal the genetic and molecular basis of floral form in this valuable ornamental species.
Fluence Rate Determines PDT Efficiency in Breast Cancer Cells Displaying Different GSH Levels
Authors: dos Santos Ancély F. , de Almeida Daria Raquel Q. , Terra Letícia F. , Wailemann Rosangela A.M. , Gomes Vinícius M. , Arini Gabriel S. , Ravagnani Felipe G. , Baptista Maurício S. , Labriola Leticia
Published: November 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) appears as a promising alternative in the treatment of breast cancer since it can be highly effective in curing cancer while preserving normal tissue. However, predicting outcomes in PDT still constitutes a great challenge. One of the parameters that are usually empirically determined is the rate of photon flux delivered to the tissue (light fluence rate). In the present study, we intended to understand why monolayers of human cells derived from mammary adenocarcinomas (MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7) respond quite differently to fluence rates (cells were irradiated either for 6 or for 16 min) at a fixed light dose (4.5 J cm−2) delivered with an array of LEDs in a typical methylene blue PDT protocol. While death rates of MDA‐MB‐231 cells were insensitive to the fluence rate, MCF‐7 cells showed a quite impressive (three times) decrease in cell death levels in the shorter irradiation protocol. Independent on cell type cell death was invariably correlated with the depletion of reduced glutathione intracellular levels and consequently with widespread redox misbalance. Our data show the potential to optimize fluence rates to provide exhaustion of the cell antioxidant responses in order to circumvent therapy resistance of breast tumors.
Containment and Connectivity in Dutch Urban Systems: A Network‐Analytical Operationalisation of the Three‐Systems Model
Authors: Poorthuis Ate , van Meeteren Michiel
Published: November 2019

This paper discusses key methodological issues with nodalising interaction data of urban networks to produce a state‐of‐the‐art settlement geography of the Netherlands. We operationalise the three‐systems model that analyses functional settlement geographies through the interaction between the daily urban system, the central place system and the export base system. We utilise theoretically‐informed selections of spatial interactions derived from travel survey data at the finely‐grained postcode level. After examining the methodological challenge of the node‐inclusivity dilemma, we estimate the causal mechanisms that geographically structure each system and determine which spatial interactions should be assigned to nodes (containment) and edges (connectivity). The three systems produce different regionalisations that are neither mutually exclusive nor perfectly nested. Further analysis of the multiplexity of the three systems reveals the importance of the imbricated boundaries between the urban subsystems. We argue that these interplaces deserve more attention as they are particularly sensitive to changes in urbanisation trends.
The role of frozen–thawed embryo replacement cycles in assisted conception
Authors: Noble Matt , Child Tim
Published: November 2019

Key content

Recent years have seen a dramatic rise in the number of frozen–thawed embryo replacement (FER) cycles.

Improved embryo cryopreservation techniques have resulted in outcomes for FER that are similar to fresh embryo transfer.

FER maximises the cumulative live‐birth rate of a fresh in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle by using excess embryos and encourages a policy of single embryo transfer; this has contributed to a fall in the multiple pregnancy rate associated with IVF.

Freezing all suitable embryos in a fresh cycle reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

The endometrium is prepared for FER by a natural or medicated protocol; the optimum method is unknown.

Learning objectives

To appreciate the importance of FER in IVF practice.

To understand the current debate surrounding fresh versus frozen IVF.

To understand the indications for, and methods of, embryo cryopreservation.

To understand the commonly used methods of endometrial preparation for FER.

To be able to date an FER pregnancy.

Ethical issues

Funding from the National Health Service (NHS) for embryo storage and FER varies widely across the UK; where funding is limited, this can result in viable embryos being discarded.

When an embryo is created by a couple, the consent of both partners is required before transferring the embryo.