bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of reported sediment samples from 20 Ma using a molecular phylogenetic approach: comment on Liu et al. (2017)
Authors: Segawa Takahiro , Yonezawa Takahiro
Published: January 2020

Liu et al. reported the cultivation and DNA sequencing of 69 fungal isolates (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) from ancient subseafloor sediments, suggesting that they represent living fungal populations that have persisted for over 20 million years. Because these findings could bring about a paradigm shift in our understanding of the spatial breadth of the deep subsurface biosphere as well as the longevity of ancient DNA, it is extremely important to verify that their samples represent pure ancient fungi from 20 million years ago without contamination by modern species. For this purpose, we estimated the divergence times of Dikarya (Ascomycota + Basidiomycota) and Mucoromycota fungi assuming that the fungal isolates were actually sampled from 20 Ma (mega‐annum) sediments and evaluated the validity of the sample ages. Using this approach, we estimate that the age of the last common ancestor of Dikarya and Mucoromycota fungi greatly exceeds the age of the Earth. Our finding emphasizes the importance of using reliable approaches to confirm the dating of ancient samples.
Intraclonal competitive fitness of longitudinal cystic fibrosis Pseudomonas aeruginosa airway isolates in liquid cultures
Authors: Cramer Nina , Fischer Sebastian , Hedtfeld Silke , Dorda Marie , Tümmler Burkhard
Published: January 2020

The metabolically versatile Pseudomonas aeruginosa inhabits biotic and abiotic environments including the niche of cystic fibrosis (CF) airways. This study investigated how the adaptation to CF lungs affects the within‐clone fitness of P. aeruginosa to grow and persist in liquid cultures in the presence of the clonal ancestors. Longitudinal clonal P. aeruginosa isolates that had been collected from 12 CF donors since the onset of colonization for up to 30 years was subjected to within‐clone competition experiments. The relative quantities of individual strains were determined by marker‐free amplicon sequencing of multiplex PCR products of strain‐specific nucleotide sequence variants, a novel method that is generally applicable to studies in evolutionary genetics and microbial ecology with real‐world strain collections. For 10 of the 12 examined patient courses, P. aeruginosa isolates of the first years of colonization grew faster in the presence of their clonal progeny than alone. Single growth of individual strains showed no temporal trend with colonization time, but in co‐culture, the early isolates out‐competed their clonal progeny. Irrespective of the genetic make‐up of the clone and its genomic microevolution in CF lungs, the early isolates expressed fitness traits to win the within‐clone competition that were absent in their progeny.
Impacts from Delaying Access to Retirement Benefits on Welfare Receipt and Expenditure: Evidence from a Natural Experiment
Authors: Oguzoglu Umut , Polidano Cain , Vu Ha
Published: January 2020

Governments are responding to fiscal pressures associated with ageing populations by increasing the eligibility age for publicly funded retirement benefits. However, recent studies show large resulting increases in the receipt of disability and unemployment benefits, which raises concern that welfare savings are offset by increased inflows into alternative payments. Using administrative data to examine the impacts of female eligibility age increases in Australia, we find little evidence of this. Instead, most of the increase is because the delay mechanically extends the receipt time of people already on alternative payments. The implication is that fiscal savings are not jeopardised by welfare substitution.
Results of the 2018 Rapid DNA Maturity Assessment
Authors: Romsos Erica L. , French Julie L. , Smith Mark , Figarelli Vincent , Harran Frederick , Vandegrift Glenn , Moreno Lilliana I. , Callaghan Thomas F. , Brocato Joanie , Vaidyanathan Janaki , Pedroso Juan C. , Amy Andrea , Stoiloff Stephanie , Morillo Victor H. , Czetyrko Karina , Johnson Elizabeth D. , de Tagyos Jessica , Murray Ashley , Vallone Peter M.
Published: January 2020

Three commercially available integrated rapid DNA instruments were tested as a part of a rapid DNA maturity assessment in July of 2018. The assessment was conducted with sets of blinded single‐source reference samples provided to participants for testing on the individual rapid platforms within their laboratories. The data were returned to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for review and analysis. Both FBI‐defined automated review (Rapid DNA Analysis) and manual review (Modified Rapid DNA Analysis) of the datasets were conducted to assess the success of genotyping the 20 Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core STR loci and full profiles generated by the instruments. Genotype results from the multiple platforms, participating laboratories, and STR typing chemistries were combined into a single analysis. The Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 80% for full profiles (85% for the 20 CODIS core loci) with automated analysis. Modified Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 90% for both the CODIS 20 core loci and full profiles (all attempted loci per chemistry). An analysis of the peak height ratios demonstrated that 95% of all heterozygous alleles were above 59% heterozygote balance. For base‐pair sizing precision, the precision was below the standard 0.5 bp deviation for both the ANDE 6C System and the RapidHIT 200.
Concentrations of heavy metals in muscle and edible offal of pork in Nanjing city of China and related health risks
Authors: Pei Fei , Wang Yueying , Fang Yong , Li Peng , Yang Wenjian , Ma Ning , Ma Gaoxing , Hu Qiuhui
Published: January 2020

The concentrations of heavy metals, such as chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb), in different muscles and edible offal of consumed pork from the city of Nanjing and related health risks were evaluated. The results showed that the detected Hg concentrations from 6 of 80 samples exceeded the maximum allowable concentration (GB 2762‐2017). Moreover, most of the edible offal, especially the kidneys, contained more heavy metals than the other parts, although the concentrations among the samples were significantly different (P < 0.05). In addition, the health risk evaluation revealed that the estimated daily intake of all the samples was far below the recommended limit, and all the target hazard quotients and total target hazard quotients were less than 1, which is considered safe for human health. Nevertheless, the Hg concentrations over the acceptable limit should receive sufficient attention, considering the long‐term consumption of pork.

Practical Application

Currently, no reports have been available on the heavy metal assessment of pork, though pork is widely consumed in many non‐Muslim communities. In this study, the concentrations of heavy metals in different muscles and edible offal of consumed pork were determined and their related health risks were evaluated. This study will provide a significant reference to understand the quality and safety of pork in China or other similar developing countries.
The gut microbiota and its interactions with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Xu Hui , Wang Xiang , Feng Wenke , Liu Qi , Zhou Shanshan , Liu Quan , Cai Lu
Published: January 2020

The intestine is colonized by a considerable community of microorganisms that cohabits within the host and plays a critical role in maintaining host homeostasis. Recently, accumulating evidence has revealed that the gut microbial ecology plays a pivotal role in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Moreover, the effects of imbalances in microbe–host interactions on homeostasis can lead to the progression of CVD. Alterations in the composition of gut flora and disruptions in gut microbial metabolism are implicated in the pathogenesis of CVD. Furthermore, the gut microbiota functions like an endocrine organ that produces bioactive metabolites, including trimethylamine/trimethylamine N‐oxide, short‐chain fatty acids and bile acids, which are also involved in host health and disease via numerous pathways. Thus, the gut microbiota and its metabolic pathways have attracted growing attention as a therapeutic target for CVD treatment. The fundamental purpose of this review was to summarize recent studies that have illustrated the complex interactions between the gut microbiota, their metabolites and the development of common CVD, as well as the effects of gut dysbiosis on CVD risk factors. Moreover, we systematically discuss the normal physiology of gut microbiota and potential therapeutic strategies targeting gut microbiota to prevent and treat CVD.
Getting to the Heart of Low Sensitivity to Alcohol: Context Moderates Low Cardiovascular Response to Alcohol in Persons With a Family History of Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Bates Marsha E. , Mun Eun‐Young , Buckman Jennifer F. , Vaschillo Evgeny , Vaschillo Bronya , Lehrer Paul , Udo Tomoko , Lesnewich Laura M.
Published: January 2020

Background

Low sensitivity to alcohol in persons with a family history of alcoholism (FH+), compared to those without (FH−), contributes to risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, sensitivity of FH+ cardiovascular response to alcohol is not well understood. This gap is significant because cardiovascular processes contribute to emotional regulation and stress response problems theorized to be central to the development and persistence of AUD. This study compared changes in heart rate (HR) and HR variability (HRV) between FH groups after consuming alcohol and control beverages and examined how these changes were moderated by emotional and alcohol‐related contexts.

Methods

Young adults (N = 165) with FH+ (n = 110) or FH− (n = 55) each completed 2 sessions, separated by 1 week. They received one of 3 different beverages (alcohol, placebo, and told‐no‐alcohol) in each session. Electrocardiogram data were recorded during pre–beverage consumption and post–beverage consumption baselines, and then during 4 picture cue tasks (neutral, positive, negative, and alcohol‐related). Generalized estimating equations were used to examine differences in cardiovascular reactivity (changes in HR and HRV power at ~ 0.1 Hz) across FH groups, beverage conditions, and picture cue tasks.

Results

A significant beverage condition × cue task × FH interaction effect on HRV was observed. The FH+ group, compared to the FH− group, showed (a) significantly less HRV suppression in specific cue contexts following alcohol, (b) a mixed pattern of more and less HRV suppression across cue contexts following placebo, and (c) a similar HRV reactivity pattern in the told‐no‐alcohol condition across cue tasks. For HR, there were no significant effects involving FH.

Conclusions

Diminished cardiovascular sensitivity to oral alcohol in FH+ persons varied within a given drinking episode depending on emotional and alcohol‐related features of the context, suggesting that environmental characteristics play a role in the expression of low sensitivity to alcohol among FH+ individuals.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Health Needs Assessment in Brazil
Authors: Rocha Anastácia Guimarães , de Souza Paulo Ricardo Assis , Wachholz Gabriela Elis , Fraga Lucas Rosa , Sanseverino Maria Teresa V. , Terra Anna Pires , da Silva André Anjos , Vianna Fernanda Sales Luiz , Abeche Alberto Mantovani , Larrandaburu Mariela , del Campo Miguel , Schuler‐Faccini Lavínia
Published: January 2020

Background

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a disorder caused by alterations in embryo‐fetal development due to prenatal alcohol exposure. It is estimated that between 0.5 and 2 per 1,000 individuals are born with FAS every year. In Brazil, there are few studies addressing the extent of the problem of FAS/fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD); these studies are confined to limited geographic areas. Therefore, we decided to perform a health needs assessment for FAS/FASD in Brazil.

Methods

To estimate the prevalence of FAS and FASD in Brazil, we used information from the literature, which estimates between 0.5 and 2/1,000 births per year for FAS and 10 to 50/1,000 for FASD.

Results

We estimated that approximately 1,500 to 6,000 children are born with FAS every year. Considering the whole population, the prevalence would be 95,377 to 380,000 affected people. However, when we consider FASD as a whole, we estimate that between 1,900,000 and 9,500,000 Brazilians might suffer the more severe consequences of alcohol exposure during pregnancy and be living with FASD.

Conclusion

The results of the current study indicate that FAS and FASD are prevalent disorders in Brazil, and more policies targeting alcohol intake during pregnancy must be developed.
Social interaction reward in rats has anti‐stress effects
Authors: Lemos Cristina , Salti Ahmad , Amaral Inês M. , Fontebasso Veronica , Singewald Nicolas , Dechant Georg , Hofer Alex , El Rawas Rana
Published: January 2020

Social interaction in an alternative context can be beneficial against drugs of abuse. Stress is known to be a risk factor that can exacerbate the effects of addictive drugs. In this study, we investigated whether the positive effects of social interaction are mediated through a decrease in stress levels. For that purpose, rats were trained to express cocaine or social interaction conditioned place preference (CPP). Behavioural, hormonal, and molecular stress markers were evaluated. We found that social CPP decreased the percentage of incorrect transitions of grooming and corticosterone to the level of naïve untreated rats. In addition, corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) was increased in the bed nucleus of stria terminalis after cocaine CPP. In order to study the modulation of social CPP by the CRF system, rats received intracerebroventricular CRF or alpha‐helical CRF, a nonselective antagonist of CRF receptors. The subsequent effects on CPP to cocaine or social interaction were observed. CRF injections increased cocaine CPP, whereas alpha‐helical CRF injections decreased cocaine CPP. However, alpha‐helical CRF injections potentiated social CPP. When social interaction was made available in an alternative context, CRF‐induced increase of cocaine preference was reversed completely to the level of rats receiving cocaine paired with alpha‐helical CRF. This reversal of cocaine preference was also paralleled by a reversal in CRF‐induced increase of p38 MAPK expression in the nucleus accumbens shell. These findings suggest that social interaction could contribute as a valuable component in treatment of substance use disorders by reducing stress levels.
Microhabitat selection and niche partitioning in two syntopic geckos
Authors: Petford Melissa Anne , Alexander Graham John
Published: January 2020

Syntopic species often exhibit evolutionary mechanisms that reduce competition. A common mechanism facilitating coexistence is niche separation, which may manifest through spatial, temporal or trophic dimensions. Species that are morphologically similar, such as congeners, are likely to compete directly and thus separate their niche spatially. The microhabitat selection and partitioning of two endemic geckos of the Soutpansberg Mountains, Lygodactylus incognitus (Jacobsen, 1992; Squamata: Gekkonidae) and L. soutpansbergensis (Jacobsen, 1994; Squamata: Gekkonidae), was investigated by recording fine‐ and broad‐scale habitat variables. Results reveal that L. incognitus is restricted to high elevations above 1100 m a.s.l. and is associated with moist microclimates. Although primarily saxicolous, they also utilise tree trunks, branches and stems. Lygodactylus soutpansbergensis occurs above 800 m a.s.l and is restricted to rocky outcrops, open woodlands and rocky grasslands, often found on loose rocks. Perch height for L. soutpansbergensis is close to ground level, and they are limited to drier microclimates. Microhabitat partitioning does not appear to be due to interspecific exclusion as the smaller L. soutpansbergensis occupies the same niche dimensions in areas where L. incognitus is not present. Sites where L. incognitus occurs in the absence of L. soutpansbergensis are forested with high canopy cover, likely preventing the colonisation of L. soutpansbergensis. This suggests that morphological and physiological constraints define microhabitat limits, although this still requires testing. Anthropogenic activities are likely to threaten the persistence of L. incognitus and L. soutpansbergensis on the Soutpansberg in the future. The results from this study may aid the interpretation and understanding on the syntopy of morphologically similar species that inhabit the same macrohabitats in other areas.
PROSPECT guideline for oncological breast surgery: a systematic review and procedure‐specific postoperative pain management recommendations
Authors: Jacobs A. , Lemoine A. , Joshi G. P. , Van de Velde M. , Bonnet F. ,   the PROSPECT Working Group collaborators
Published: January 2020

Analgesic protocols used to treat pain after breast surgery vary significantly. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available literature on this topic and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after oncological breast surgery. A systematic review using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis guidance with procedure‐specific postoperative pain management (PROSPECT) methodology was undertaken. Randomised controlled trials assessing postoperative pain using analgesic, anaesthetic or surgical interventions were identified. Seven hundred and forty‐nine studies were found, of which 53 randomised controlled trials and nine meta‐analyses met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Quantitative analysis suggests that dexamethasone and gabapentin reduced postoperative pain. The use of paravertebral blocks also reduced postoperative pain scores, analgesia consumption and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Intra‐operative opioid requirements were documented to be lower when a pectoral nerves block was performed, which also reduced postoperative pain scores and opioid consumption. We recommend basic analgesics (i.e. paracetamol and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs) administered pre‐operatively or intra‐operatively and continued postoperatively. In addition, pre‐operative gabapentin and dexamethasone are also recommended. In major breast surgery, a regional anaesthetic technique such as paravertebral block or pectoral nerves block and/or local anaesthetic wound infiltration may be considered for additional pain relief. Paravertebral block may be continued postoperatively using catheter techniques. Opioids should be reserved as rescue analgesics in the postoperative period. Research is needed to evaluate the role of novel regional analgesic techniques such as erector spinae plane or retrolaminar plane blocks combined with basic analgesics in an enhanced recovery setting.
Cross‐validation of Actigraph derived accelerometer cut‐points for assessment of sedentary behaviour and physical activity in children aged 8‐11 years
Authors: Duncan Michael J. , Eyre Emma L. J. , Cox Val , Roscoe Clare M. P. , Faghy Mark A. , Tallis Jason , Dobell Alexandra
Published: January 2020

Aim

To cross‐validate previously calibrated Actigraph cut‐points in children.

Methods

Twenty‐eight children (50% boys) aged between 8 and 11 years of age (9.4 ± 1.4 years) performed a series of 5 minute bouts of activity reflective of different levels of PA from sedentary behaviour (SB) to moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA); O2 was assessed using breath‐by‐breath indirect calorimetry, and activity was assessed using Actigraph accelerometers worn on the hip and non‐dominant wrist. The O2 values were then converted into age‐specific METs (measured METs) and coded as SB, light PA and MVPA. Accelerometer data were analysed using previously calibrated cut‐points at different epochs, that is 5, 15, 30 and 60 seconds.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that there was excellent discrimination of SB using the Evenson et al (15 seconds), Romanzini (15 seconds), Treuth et al (30 seconds), Freedson et al (60 seconds), Treuth et al (60 seconds) and Troiano et al (60 seconds) cut‐points. ROC analysis indicated poor discrimination for LPA irrespective of the cut‐points used. Good discrimination of MVPA was evident for all existing cut‐points using a 60‐second epoch.

Conclusion

There is considerable variation in the performance of existing cut‐points for assessment of SB, LPA and MPA in children.
Systematic review: ibuprofen‐induced liver injury
Authors: Zoubek Miguel E. , Lucena María Isabel , Andrade Raúl J. , Stephens Camilla
Published: January 2020

Background

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a leading cause of drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) across the world. Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used and safest NSAIDs, nevertheless reports on ibuprofen‐induced hepatotoxicity are available.

Aim

To analyse previously published information on ibuprofen‐induced liver injury for a better characterisation of its phenotypic expression.

Method

A systematic search was performed and information on ibuprofen‐induced liver injury included in case series and case reports, in terms of demographic, clinical, biochemical and outcome data, was analysed.

Results

Twenty‐two idiosyncratic ibuprofen hepatotoxicity cases were identified in the literature, suggesting a very low prevalence of this type of DILI. These patients had a mean age of 31 years and 55% were females. Mean cumulative dose of ibuprofen and time to onset were 30 g and 12 days, respectively. Hepatocellular injury was the most frequently involved liver injury pattern. Six cases developed vanishing bile duct syndrome. Full recovery occurred in 11 patients after a mean time of 14 weeks, whereas five cases evolved to acute liver failure leading to death/liver transplantation.

Conclusions

When assessing potential hepatotoxicity cases, physicians should keep in mind that ibuprofen has been associated with hepatotoxicity in the literature. Ibuprofen‐associated DILI presents commonly as hepatocellular damage after a short latency period. Published reports on ibuprofen hepatotoxicity leading to liver failure resulting in liver transplantation or death are available. However, due to the apparent low absolute risk of ibuprofen‐induced liver complications, ibuprofen can be regarded as an efficacious and safe NSAID.
Robot‐assisted radical perineal prostatectomy: a review of 95 cases
Authors: Tuğcu Volkan , Ekşi Mithat , Sahin Selcuk , Çolakoğlu Yunus , Simsek Abdulmuttalip , Evren İsmail , İhsan Taşçı Ali
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To assess the early functional and oncological outcomes of a large series of patients who underwent robot‐assisted radical perineal prostatectomy (RPP).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analysed the patients who underwent robot‐assisted RPP for localized prostate cancer between November 2016 and September 2018. Patients who had locally advanced disease proven on biopsy or were suspected to have locally advanced disease on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and patients who had a contraindication for the exaggerated lithotomy position were not included in this study. Patient demographics, preoperative and postoperative variables, complications and follow‐up times were recorded.

Results

A total of 95 patients were included. Their mean ± sd age was 61.5 ± 6.5 years. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) preoperative prostate‐specific antigen level was 6.1 (3.7) ng/mL, the median (IQR) operating time was 140 (25) min, and the mean ± sd blood loss was 67.4 ± 17 mL. Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) was performed for 12 patients (12.6%). The median (IQR) hospital stay was 1 (1) days. Positive surgical margins were present in eight patients (8.4%). After catheter removal, the immediate continence rate was 41%. Continence rates were 78%, 87% and 91%, respectively, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Potency rates were 49%, 69% and 77%, respectively, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery for patients who had adequate potency preoperatively. The median (IQR) follow‐up time was 13 (3.1) months.

Conclusion

We conclude that robot‐assisted RPP is a reliable and effective surgical technique that can be employed in the treatment of localized prostate cancer regardless of prostate volume, especially in patients with a history of abdominal surgery. As an additional advantage, PLND can be performed through the same incision.
Millennial‐to‐centennial scale lake system development in the mountains of tropical Mexico
Authors: Franco‐Gaviria Felipe , Correa‐Metrio Alex , Núñez‐Useche Fernando , Zawisza Edyta , Caballero Margarita , Prado Blanca , Wojewódka Marta , Olivares Gustavo
Published: January 2020

Rapid degradation of freshwater ecosystems threatens water supply for human populations and natural landscapes. At diverse time scales, this process has been clearly associated with climatic and anthropogenic forcings. The question remains, however, how tropical lakes have responded to these two sources of variability. We present a multiproxy record from Lake San Lorenzo, Lagunas de Montebello National Park, tropical Mexico, spanning the last ~3400 years. We used multi‐elemental concentrations, and Cladocera and pollen assemblages along the record to reconstruct regional and local environmental variability, aiming to infer the factors and processes involved in the evolution of the lacustrine system. A principal component analysis on the pooled biological and geochemical evidence allowed the inference of the main changes in lake level and productivity. At millennial scales, the development of the lake system has been closely associated with regional moisture availability, with wetter (drier) time intervals associated with high (low) lake stands. According to Ti concentrations, from ~3400 to 1000 cal. a BP, regional conditions followed a trend towards drier conditions, with littoral cladoceran assemblages suggesting high lake productivity. The extreme regional droughts reportedly associated with the cultural collapse of the Maya civilization manifested in our study area through both high lake productivity and the lowest lake levels of the record. Through the last ~800 years, the regional moisture availability has increased, with the water body becoming deeper and larger. Overall, our record offers evidence of a highly variable system strongly coupled with regional climates, but also very sensitive to local disturbances associated with human occupation. Lake San Lorenzo has been highly resilient to external pressures and has previously recovered from conditions probably alike those associated with the ongoing modern deterioration process. Nevertheless, such recovery involves a complex network of interactions amongst natural and human factors.
Prognostic and radiographic correlates of a prospectively collected molecularly profiled cohort of IDH1/2‐wildtype astrocytomas
Authors: Lin Andrew L. , Rosenblum Marc , Mellinghoff Ingo K. , Tabar Viviane S. , Ogilvie Shahiba , Schaff Lauren , Yang Tzu-I Jonathan , Young Robert J. , Taylor Barry S. , Jonsson Philip , Bale Tejus A.
Published: January 2020

Background: In the molecular era, the relevance of tumor grade for prognostication of IDH1/2‐wildtype (WT) gliomas has been debated. It has been suggested that histologic grade II and III astrocytomas with molecular features of glioblastoma, IDH1/2‐WT have a similar prognosis to glioblastoma and should be considered for the same clinical trials. Methods: We integrated prospective clinical sequencing from 564 patients with IDH1/2‐WT gliomas (26 grade II, 71 grade III and 467 grade IV) with clinical and radiographic data to assess associations between molecular features, grade and outcome. Results: Compared to histologic grade IV IDH1/2‐WT astrocytomas, histologic grade II astrocytomas harbor fewer chromosome 7/10 alterations (P = 0.04), EGFR amplifications (P = 0.022) and alterations in cell‐cycle effectors (P = 1.9e‐11), but a similar frequency of TERT promoter mutations. In contrast, there is no difference in the frequency of these canonical molecular features in histologic grade III vs. IV IDH1/2‐WT disease. Progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for histologic grade II tumors were significantly longer than grade III tumors (P = 0.02 and P = 0.008, respectively), whereas there was no difference in PFS and OS for histologic grade III compared to grade IV tumors. Median PFS for histologic grade II, III and IV tumors was 19, 11 and 9 months, respectively. Median OS for the same tumors was 44, 23 and 23 months, respectively. In histologic grade II and III IDH1/2 WT tumors, gliomatosis is associated with the absence of cell‐cycle alterations (P = 0.008) and enriched in grade II features (P = 0.1) and alterations in the PI3K‐AKT pathway (P = 0.09). Conclusions: Grade II histology has genotypic and phenotypic associations with prognostic implications in IDH1/2‐WT astrocytomas.
Family‐centred service: Perspectives of paediatric residents from a non‐Western country
Authors: Zengin Akkus Pinar , Ilter Bahadur Evin , Coskun Aysenur , Koken Gizem , Karahan Sevilay , Ozmert Elif Nursel
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The concept of family‐centred service (FCS), which is recognized as the standard of paediatric health care, emerged from Western countries, and integration of FCS can be challenging especially in non‐Western countries. This study aims to explore family‐centred behaviours of paediatric residents and their perspectives on FCS being trained in a non‐Western country before and 6 months after an educational workshop. It was hypothesized that the workshop will increase the awareness of paediatric residents regarding FCS and improve their self‐reported family‐centred practices.

Study design

Ninety‐nine residents who are in a 4‐year paediatric residency program were included. A 2‐hr interactive workshop was conducted for all participants. The measure of processes of care for service providers was used to measure self‐reported family‐centred practices of paediatric residents, and a study specific questionnaire was utilized to understand their perspectives towards FCS prior to and 6 months after the workshop.

Results

There were statistically significant increases in the measure of processes of care for service providers scores suggesting improvements in self‐reported family‐centred practices of participants 6 months after the workshop. Moreover, the percentage of participants describing themselves as knowledgeable and competent increased. Viewpoints of paediatric residents on the implementation of FCS and several challenges perceived by participants were highlighted.

Conclusion

This is the first study conducted in a non‐Western country exploring perspectives of paediatric residents towards the implementation of FCS and measuring their self‐reported family‐centred practices before and after an educational workshop. The study revealed that although a 2‐hr interactive workshop improved the self‐reported family‐centred practices of participants, they still found FCS challenging.
Prevalence and incidence of thyroid dysfunction in type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and latent autoimmune diabetes of adults: The Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II
Authors: Peters Kirsten E. , Chubb Stephen A. Paul , Bruce David G. , Davis Wendy A. , Davis Timothy M. E.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Since the results of published studies assessing thyroid dysfunction complicating diabetes have been variable in quality, inconsistent and may not reflect contemporary clinical care, the aim of this study was to determine its prevalence and incidence in a large, well‐characterized, representative cohort.

Design

Community‐based, longitudinal, observational study.

Patients

A total of 1617 participants from the Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II (FDS2), including 130 (8.0%) with type 1 diabetes, 1408 (87.1%) with type 2 diabetes, and 79 (4.9%) with latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA).

Measurements

Serum thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) at baseline between 2008 and 2011 and in those attending Year 4 follow‐up.

Results

The prevalence of known thyroid disease (ascertained from baseline self‐reported thyroid medication use or hospitalization data) was 11.7% (189/1617). Of the remaining 1428 participants, 5.1% (73/1428) had biochemical evidence of subclinical hypothyroidism, 1.1% (15/1428) overt hypothyroidism, 0.1% (2/1428) subclinical hyperthyroidism and 0.2% (3/1428) overt hyperthyroidism, representing an overall baseline prevalence of thyroid disease of 17.4% (282/1617). During 5694 patient‐years of follow‐up, 25 (3.0%) of the 844 with a normal baseline TSH and follow‐up data developed known thyroid disease. Of the remaining 819, 3.4% developed subclinical hypothyroidism, 0.2% overt hypothyroidism and 0.5% subclinical hyperthyroidism. There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence or incidence of thyroid dysfunction by diabetes type.

Conclusions

Thyroid dysfunction, known or detected through screening, is common in diabetes. These data suggest the need for periodic clinical and biochemical screening for thyroid disease in all types of diabetes.
Interspecialty referral of oesophagogastric and pharyngolaryngeal cancers delays diagnosis and reduces patient survival: A matched case‐control study
Authors: Bird Jon H. , Williams Elizabeth J. , Heathcote Kate J. , Ayres Lachlan , De Zoysa Nilantha , King Emma V. , Parry Sally D. , Nouraei S. A. Reza
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Pharyngolaryngeal and oesophagogastric cancers present with swallowing symptoms and as such, their clinical evaluation traverses boundaries between different specialties. We studied the incidence and significance of interspecialty cancer referrals (ICRs), that is, pharyngolaryngeal cancers first evaluated by gastroenterology and oesophagogastric cancers first evaluated by otolaryngology.

Design

A subset analysis of our Integrated Aerodigestive Partnership's audit dataset, of all ICR patients, and an equal number of controls matched for age, sex and cancer subsite.

Main outcome measures

Information about patient age and presenting symptoms was recorded. The relationship between symptoms and ICR risk was examined with binary logistic regression. Referral‐to‐diagnosis latency was compared between ICR and control patients with unpaired Student's t test. Cox regression was used to identify independent predictors of overall survival.

Results

Of 1130 patients with pharyngolaryngeal and oesophagogastric cancers between 2008 and 2018, 60 diagnoses (5.3%) were preceded by an ICR. Referral‐to‐diagnosis latency increased from 43 ± 50 days for control patients to 115 ± 140 days for ICR patients (P < .0001). Dysphagia significantly increased the risk of an ICR (odds ratio 3.34; 95% CI 1.30‐8.56), and presence of classic gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (heartburn or regurgitation; OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.08‐0.83) and “distal” symptoms (nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain or dyspepsia; OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.08‐068) significantly reduced the risk. Eleven pharyngolaryngeal cancers (of 26; 42%) were missed by gastroenterology, and eight (of 34; 24%) oesophageal cancers were missed by otolaryngology. An ICR was an independent adverse prognostic risk factor on multivariable analysis (hazard ratio 1.76; 95% CI 1.11‐2.73; P < .02; log‐rank test). Two systemic root causes were poor visualisation of pharynx and larynx by per‐oral oesophago‐gastro‐duodenoscopy (OGD) for pharyngolaryngeal cancers, and poor sensitivity (62.5%) of barium swallow when it was used to 'evaluate' oesophageal mucosa.

Conclusions

An interspecialty cancer referral occurs in a significant proportion of patients with foregut cancers. It almost triples the time to cancer diagnosis and is associated with a high incidence of missed cancers and diminished patient survival. It is a complex phenomenon, and its reduction requires an integrated approach between primary and secondary care, and within secondary care, to optimise referral pathways and ensure appropriate and expeditious specialist evaluation.
Head and neck cancer risk calculator (HaNC‐RC)—V.2. Adjustments and addition of symptoms and social history factors
Authors: Tikka Theofano , Kavanagh Kimberley , Lowit Anja , Jiafeng Pan , Burns Harry , Nixon Iain J. , Paleri Vinidh , MacKenzie Kenneth
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Head and neck cancer (HNC) diagnosis through the 2‐week wait, urgent suspicion of cancer (USOC) pathway has failed to increase early cancer detection rates in the UK. A head and neck cancer risk calculator (HaNC‐RC) has previously been designed to aid referral of high‐risk patients to USOC clinics (predictive power: 77%). Our aim was to refine the HaNC‐RC to increase its prediction potential.

Design

Following sample size calculation, prospective data collection and statistical analysis of referral criteria and outcomes.

Setting

Large tertiary care cancer centre in Scotland.

Participants

3531 new patients seen in routine, urgent and USOC head and neck (HaN) clinics.

Main outcome measures

Data collected were as follows: demographics, social history, presenting symptoms and signs and HNC diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were performed to identify significant predictors of HNC. Internal validation was performed using 1000 sample bootstrapping to estimate model diagnostics included the area under the receiver operator curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity.

Results

The updated version of the risk calculator (HaNC‐RC v.2) includes age, gender, unintentional weight loss, smoking, alcohol, positive and negative symptoms and signs of HNC. It has achieved an AUC of 88.6% with two recommended triage referral cut‐offs to USOC (cut‐off: 7.1%; sensitivity: 85%, specificity: 78.3%) or urgent clinics (cut‐off: 2.2%; sensitivity: 97.1%; specificity of 52.9%). This could redistribute cancer detection through USOC clinics from the current 60.9%–85.2%, without affecting total numbers seen in each clinical setting.

Conclusions

The use of the HaNC‐RC v.2 has a significant potential in both identifying patients at high risk of HNC early thought USOC clinics but also improving health service delivery practices by reducing the number of inappropriately urgent referrals.
Training in colorectal surgery in Europe and 20 years of the European Board of Surgical Qualification coloproctology examination
Authors: Teixeira Farinha H. , Matzel K. E. , Nicholls J. , Hetzer F. , Zimmerman D. D. E. , Warusavitarne J. , Hahnloser D.
Published: January 2020

Aim

Training in colorectal surgery across Europe is not yet standardized. The European Board of Surgical Qualification (EBSQ) coloproctology examination has been held annually since 1998. The aims of this study were to illustrate the current situation of coloproctology specialization in Europe and to analyse the EBSQ examinations held over the last 20 years.

Method

A survey, focused on current training and education in colorectal surgery in Europe, was conducted among all national representatives of the European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) in 2018. Candidate demographics (1998–2018) and the results of the EBSQ examination (2007–2018) were analysed.

Results

In Europe, there are currently 26 national colorectal societies, 27 national annual colorectal meetings, 16 national specialized training programmes and 13 national colorectal fellowships. Six countries have board certification in colorectal surgery and five a dedicated examination. During the last 20 years, 475 candidates from 29 countries, of whom 88 (19%) were women, passed the EBSQ examination. The pass rate was higher in younger applicants (< 42 years, P = 0.01). The success rate was higher for candidates with academic experience (more than five publications or presentations) and with an academic title (thesis) (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Colorectal surgical training is still not standardized in Europe, although efforts have been made to recognize colorectal surgery as an independent speciality. The number of holders of the EBSQ Diploma has increased over the years, demonstrating the acceptance of the examination among European surgeons. Young candidates with an academic profile are the most successful.
Reproducibility of a ramping protocol to measure cerebral vascular reactivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Evanoff Nicholas G. , Mueller Bryon A. , Marlatt Kara L. , Geijer Justin R. , Lim Kelvin O. , Dengel Donald R.
Published: January 2020

Though individual differences in arterial carbon dioxide and oxygen levels inherently exist, the degree of their influence on cerebral vascular reactivity (CVR) is less clear. We examined the reproducibility of BOLD signal changes to an iso‐oxic ramping PetCO2 protocol. CVR changes were induced by altering PetCO2 while holding PetO2 constant using a computer‐controlled sequential gas delivery (SGD) device. Two MRI scans, each including a linear change in PetCO2, were performed using a 3‐Tesla (3T) scanner. This ramp sequence consisted of 1 min at 30 mmHg followed by 4 min period during where PetCO2 was linearly increased from 30 to 50 mmHg, 1 min at 51 mmHg, and concluded with 4 min at baseline. The protocol was repeated at a separate visit with 3 days between visits (minimum). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and coefficients of variation (CV) were used to verify reproducibility. Eleven subjects (6 females; mean age 26.5 ± 5.7 years) completed the full testing protocol. Good reproducibility was observed for the within‐visit ramp sequence (Visit 1: ICC = 0.82, CV = 6.5%; Visit 2: ICC = 0.74, CV = 6.4%). Similarly, ramp sequence were reproducible between visits (Scan 1: ICC = 0.74, CV = 6.5%; Scan 2: ICC = 0.66, CV = 6.1%). Establishing reproducible methodologies for measuring BOLD signal changes in response to PetCO2 alterations using a ramp protocol will allow researchers to study CVR functionality. Finally, adding a ramping protocol to CVR studies could provide information about changes in CVR over a broad range of PetCO2.
Does stretch training induce muscle hypertrophy in humans? A review of the literature
Authors: Nunes João Pedro , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Nakamura Masatoshi , Ribeiro Alex S. , Cunha Paolo M. , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: January 2020

Stretch training is widely used in a variety of fitness‐related capacities such as increasing joint range of motion, preventing contractures and alleviating injuries. Moreover, some researches indicate that stretch training may induce muscle hypertrophy; however, studies on the topic have been primarily relegated to animal and in vitro models. The purpose of this brief review was to evaluate whether stretch training is a viable strategy to induce muscle hypertrophy in humans. An extensive literature search was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO and Scopus databases, using terms related to stretching and muscle hypertrophy. Only human trials that evaluated changes in measures of muscle size or architecture following training protocols that it was performed stretching exercises were selected for inclusion. Of the 10 studies identified, 3 observed some significantly positive effects of stretch training on muscle structure. Intriguingly, in these studies, the stretching was carried out with an apparatus that aided in its performance, or with an external overload. In all studies, the subjects performed stretching at their own self‐determined range of motion, and no effect was observed. Of the 5 available studies that integrated stretching into a resistance training programme, 2 applied the stretching in the interset rest period and were the ones that showed enhanced muscle growth. In conclusion, passive, low‐intensity stretch does not appear to confer beneficial changes in muscle size and architecture; alternatively, albeit limited evidence suggests that when stretching is done with a certain degree of tensile strain (particularly when loaded, or added between active muscle contractions) may elicit muscle hypertrophy.
Trending MCN: Fifty Years of Museum Computing Conferences and Community
Authors: Marty Paul F. , Kim Castle U.
Published: January 2020

Established in 1967, the Museum Computer Network (MCN) supports an international community of museum professionals who are interested in the design, development, and use of information technologies in museums. Since 1968, MCN has hosted regular conferences for its members, providing a space where museum professionals from around the world can assemble for professional development, networking, and educational opportunities related to museum computing. This paper presents an analysis of five decades of MCN conference programs to determine how the evolution of the MCN conference from 1968 to 2017 reflects a corresponding co‐evolution of MCN as a professional organization. The results document the historical development of MCN as a community of practice, and show how the MCN conference has informed, engaged, and inspired museum professionals over the last 50 years.
Telecytology rapid on‐site evaluation: Diagnostic challenges, technical issues and lessons learned
Authors: Xing Juan , Monaco Sara E. , Cuda Jacqueline , Pantanowitz Liron
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) has been widely used to improve diagnostic adequacy and facilitate specimen triage. Telecytology ROSE has gained popularity recently and shown high concordance with traditional ROSE. However, telecytology involves multiple personnel and technical devices that could introduce additional errors. The aim of this paper is to share errors encountered and lessons learned since employing telecytology for ROSE at our institution.

Methods

The laboratory information system was searched for all documented telecytology ROSE errors from 2017 to 2019. These errors were subclassified as technical errors, cytotechnologist‐related errors and pathologist‐related errors. The following details were recorded for each reported event: type of error, reason for error, ROSE diagnosis, final diagnosis and actions taken to avoid future errors.

Results

Telecytology ROSE errors were documented in 46 (1.3%) sessions. Ten (22%) had technical errors, 13 (28%) were owing to cytotechnologist errors and 23 (50%) were attributed to pathologist interpretation errors. The majority of the technical (90%) and cytotechnologist errors (85%) occurred within the first year of implementation of telecytology. Common ROSE misinterpretation errors included missing microorganisms, misclassifying neuroendocrine tumours as other neoplasms and overcalling malignancy on gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures.

Conclusions

A variety of errors may occur during telecytology ROSE. While some errors are inevitable (eg, information technology downtime), certain telecytology errors can be reduced by increasing staff familiarity with the system, providing timely feedbacks and taking prompt corrective actions. We recommend establishing a mechanism to document and act upon recorded errors as part of a telecytology quality improvement programme.