bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation for recurrent macular hole retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes
Authors: Li Yanzi , Li Zhaohui , Xu Changzhong , Liu Yong , Kang Xueqin , Wu Jianhua
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To investigate the morphological and functional reconstruction of the macular fovea after autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation for recurrent macular hole retinal detachment (MHRD) in highly myopic eyes.

Methods

Ten consecutive cases of recurrent MHRD with high myopia were retrospectively reviewed. All eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy combined with autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation and were followed up for at least 3 months after silicone oil extraction. The main outcomes were whether or not the retina was reattached and the macular hole (MH) was closed, morphological changes in the retinal graft, best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the sensitivity threshold and blood flow signal in the macula.

Results

At the one month postoperative visit, there was an obvious boundary between the graft and the surrounding retinal tissue, and some retinal structural layers could be seen in the graft on optical coherence tomography scans. At the final follow‐up, eight eyes (80%) showed retinal reattachment and closure of the MH. Optical coherence tomography revealed blurring of the boundary between the graft and surrounding retinal tissue and that the retinal structure in the graft was disordered. The MH was not closed in two eyes (20%), in one case because of partial displacement of the graft and in the other because of incomplete coverage of the MH as a result of a smaller graft. The post‐BCVA was significantly better than the pre‐BCVA (1.32 ± 0.33 versus 2.01 ± 0.29 logMAR; p = 0.000, paired t‐test).

Conclusion

Autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation can be an effective treatment for recurrent MHRD in highly myopic eyes. ‘Fusion’ between the neurosensory retinal graft and the original retinal tissue may be the mechanism involved in the closure of the MH and reconstruction of the macular fovea.
Physical activity and sedentary behaviour in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome: An Australian population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tay Chau Thien , Moran Lisa J. , Harrison Cheryce L. , Brown Wendy J. , Joham Anju E.
Published: April 2020

Objective

Lifestyle is the first‐line treatment for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study examines the physical activity (PA) levels and sedentary behaviours of women with and without PCOS, and their alignment with the PCOS PA guideline.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study on women (aged 22‐27 years) in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health was conducted in 2019 using data collected in 2017. Self‐reported PA levels and total daily sitting time (ST) of women with (n = 7051) and without (n = 796) self‐reported PCOS were presented, stratified by body mass index (BMI) and a combined overweight/obese group.

Results

71.0% and 56.7% of the entire study cohort achieved PA levels recommended for weight maintenance and weight loss, respectively. Overall, PA levels were lower and ST was higher in women with than without PCOS. In each BMI category, similar proportions of women with and without PCOS met the PA guidelines but became lower as BMI category increased. Fewer overweight/obese group women with than without PCOS aligned with recommendations for weight maintenance (58.7% vs 65.7%, P = .003) or weight loss (45.1% vs 50.3%, P = .032). ST ≥8 h/d was observed in two‐thirds of women with and without self‐reported PCOS similarly before and after stratifying by BMI.

Conclusion

High sedentary behaviour was extremely prevalent. Although the majority of women met PA recommendations for weight maintenance, only one in two overweight/obese women met PA recommendation for weight loss. Overweight/obese women with PCOS were more likely to participate in insufficient PA and require increased support to achieve sustainable healthy lifestyle.
Phenotypic and genotypic features of a large kindred with a germline AIP variant
Authors: Dal Jakob , Nielsen Eigil H. , Klose Marianne , Feldt‐Rasmussen Ulla , Andersen Marianne , Vang Søren , Korbonits Márta , Jørgensen Jens Otto L.
Published: April 2020

Context

Acromegaly is usually a sporadic disease, but familial cases occur. Mutations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐interacting protein (AIP) gene are associated with familial pituitary adenoma predisposition. However, the pathogenicity of some AIP variants remains unclear and additional unknown genes may be involved.

Objective

To explore the phenotype and genotype of a large kindred carrying the p.R304Q AIP variant.

Methods

The family comprised 52 family members at risk of carrying the p.R304Q AIP variant including a case with gigantism and one with acromegaly and several family members with acromegalic features. Nine family members (three trios) underwent exome sequencing to identify putative pathogenic variants.

Results

We identified 31 p.R304Q carriers, and based on two cases with somatotropinomas, the disease penetrance was 6%. We observed physical signs of acromegaly in several family members, which were independent of AIP status. Serum insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) levels in all family members were above the mean for age and sex (IGF‐I SDS: +0.6 [CI95% +0.4‐0.9], P < .01). Exome analysis identified two candidate genes: PDE11A, known to be associated with the development of adrenal tumours, and ALG14. Ten asymptomatic p.R304Q family members (age >50 years) were screened for the PDE11A and ALG14 variant; both variants were present in five of ten persons.

Conclusions

This large family adds new information on the p.R304Q AIP variant, and data suggest two new candidate genes could be associated with growth hormone excess.
Timing it right: Suspicious students, family bonds and becoming a woman in Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Grace Samantha L.
Published: April 2020

To improve access to education in Ecuador, state actors encourage parents and youth to think of girls’ emotional bonds to family as potential barriers to schooling. High schoolgirls and their mothers respond by synchronising their institutional and family responsibilities with the emotional norms of age grades such as ‘student youth’ and ‘mother’. Girls dedicated to embodying national progress find themselves trying to delay strong emotional commitments to family until after they have completed their schooling. Examining their construction as emotional suspects reveals the stakes of age expectations for female citizens in Ecuador.
Hard and soft tissue analysis of alveolar ridge preservation in esthetic zone using deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a saddle connective tissue graft: A long‐term prospective case series
Authors: Botilde Gaëlle , Colin Paul‐Emile , González‐Martín Oscar , Lecloux Geoffrey , Rompen Eric , Lambert France
Published: April 2020

Aim

Although alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) procedures appear to limit bone resorption after dental extraction, long‐term outcomes remain limited. The objective of this prospective case series was to evaluate the long‐term hard and soft tissue changes after ARP procedure in the aesthetic area, using deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) and saddle connective tissue graft.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen patients were subjected to ARP and impressions and CT scans were taken at baseline and 3 months. After 5 to 7 years, a secondary long‐term clinical and radiological analysis was carried out. Horizontal alveolar bone changes, soft tissue profiles and implant outcomes were assessed.

Results

Although a limited hard and soft tissue remodeling occurred during the first 3 months after ARP, from 3 months to the long‐term evaluation, the alveolar bone dimensions remained stable and the soft tissue profiles significantly increased, in the more cervical levels. The implant survival rate after 5 to 7 years yielded 100% and peri‐implant bone levels and soft tissue health were good.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the study, the present data confirms the long‐term effectiveness of ARP using DBBM and a saddle connective tissue graft offering stable hard and soft tissue conditions up to 5 to 7 years.
Estimating changes and trends in ecosystem extent with dense time‐series satellite remote sensing
Authors: Lee Calvin K.F. , Nicholson Emily , Duncan Clare , Murray Nicholas J.
Published: April 2020

Quantifying trends in ecosystem extent is essential to understanding the status of ecosystems. Estimates of ecosystem loss are widely used to track progress toward conservation targets, monitor deforestation, and identify ecosystems undergoing rapid change. Satellite remote sensing has become an important source of information for estimating these variables. Despite regular acquisition of satellite data, many studies of change in ecosystem extent use only static snapshots, which ignores considerable amounts of data. This approach limits the ability to explicitly estimate trend uncertainty and significance. Assessing the accuracy of multiple snapshots also requires time‐series reference data which is often very costly and sometimes impossible to obtain. We devised a method of estimating trends in ecosystem extent that uses all available Landsat satellite imagery. We used a dense time series of classified maps that explicitly accounted for covariates that affect extent estimates (e.g., time, cloud cover, and seasonality). We applied this approach to the Hukaung Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Myanmar, where rapid deforestation is greatly affecting the lowland rainforest. We applied a generalized additive mixed model to estimate forest extent from more than 650 Landsat image classifications (1999–2018). Forest extent declined significantly at a rate of 0.274%/year (SE = 0.078). Forest extent declined from 91.70% (SE = 0.02) of the study area in 1999 to 86.52% (SE = 0.02) in 2018. Compared with the snapshot method, our approach improved estimated trends of ecosystem loss by allowing significance testing with confidence intervals and incorporation of nonlinear relationships. Our method can be used to identify significant trends over time, reduces the need for extensive reference data through time, and provides quantitative estimates of uncertainty.
Beyond the Michaelis‐Menten: Accurate Prediction of In Vivo Hepatic Clearance for Drugs With Low KM
Authors: Back Hyun‐moon , Yun Hwi‐yeol , Kim Sang Kyum , Kim Jae Kyoung
Published: April 2020

Clearance (CL) is the major pharmacokinetic parameter for evaluating systemic exposure of drugs in the body and, thus, for developing new drugs. To predict in vivo CL, the ratio between the maximal rate of metabolism and Michaelis‐Menten constant (Vmax/KM estimated from in vitro metabolism study has been widely used. This canonical approach is based on the Michaelis‐Menten equation, which is valid only when the KM value of a drug is much higher than the hepatic concentration of the enzymes, especially cytochrome P450, involved in its metabolism. Here, we find that such a condition does not hold for many drugs with low KM, and, thus, the canonical approach leads to considerable error. Importantly, we propose an alternative approach, which incorporates the saturation of drug metabolism when concentration of the enzymes is not sufficiently lower than KM. This new approach dramatically improves the accuracy of prediction for in vivo CL of high‐affinity drugs with low KM. This indicates that the proposed approach in this study, rather than the canonical approach, should be used to predict in vivo hepatic CL for high‐affinity drugs, such as midazolam and propafenone.
Implementation of an optimized binary classification by GMDH‐type neural network algorithm for predicting the blast produced ground vibration
Authors: Mohammadi Davood , Mikaeil Reza , Abdollahi‐Sharif Jafar
Published: April 2020

Ground vibration is one of the most important undesired phenomena resulting from blasting operations imposing damages to facilities and buildings on the one hand, and creating environmental problems in open pit mining on the other. Therefore, the present study aims to provide an optimized classification binary model to identify the blasting patterns with an acceptable ground vibration intensity to reduce the damages resulting from this artificial phenomenon. This study uses a binary method to provide an optimized classification model for predicting and evaluating the blasting patterns with the minimum ground vibration. Group Method of Data Handling‐Type Neural Network is used as one of the most practical optimization algorithms to solve complicated and uncertain problems in this modelling. In this study, by collecting the data of 52 different blasting patterns from Soungun copper mine, some of the most important geometric properties and the amount of ammonium nitrate fuel oil consumed in each blasting pattern are recorded. In addition, based on expertise and experience of experts, the degree of ground vibration produced by each blasting is qualitatively classified into four different ranges of very high, high, normal and low in the form of unacceptable (very high and High) and acceptable (normal and low) clusters. Based on the results obtained from the analyses, the developed model has a high flexibility and ability in the binary prediction of blasting patterns with an acceptable vibration magnitude.
Collateral damage? Small‐scale fisheries in the global fight against IUU fishing
Authors: Song Andrew M. , Scholtens Joeri , Barclay Kate , Bush Simon R. , Fabinyi Michael , Adhuri Dedi S. , Haughton Milton
Published: April 2020

Concern over illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing has led to a number of policy, trade and surveillance measures. While much attention has been given to the impact of IUU regulation on industrial fleets, recognition of the distinct impacts on small‐scale fisheries is conspicuously lacking from the policy and research debate. In this paper, we outline three ways in which the application of IUU discourse and regulation undermines small‐scale fisheries. First, the mainstream construction of “illegal,” “unreported” and “unregulated” fishing, and also the categorical use of “IUU” in an all‐inclusive sense, disregards the diversity, legitimacy and sustainability of small‐scale fisheries practices and their governing systems. Second, we explore how the recent trade‐related measures to counter IUU fishing mask and reinforce existing inequalities between different sectors and countries, creating an unfair burden on small‐scale fisheries and countries who depend on them. Third, as IUU fishing is increasingly approached as “organized crime,” there is a risk of inappropriately targeting small‐scale fisheries, at times violently. Reflecting on these three trends, we propose three strategies by which a more sensitive and ultimately more equitable incorporation of small‐scale fisheries can be supported in the global fight against IUU fishing.
Shifting trophic architecture of marine fisheries in New Zealand: Implications for guiding effective ecosystem‐based management
Authors: Durante Leonardo Maia , Beentjes Michael Peter , Wing Stephen Richard
Published: April 2020

New Zealand has led the world in restoration of marine fisheries since the introduction of the Quota Management System in 1986, but challenges remain in minimizing the ecosystem‐level effects of industrialized fishing. We analysed existing long‐term fisheries data sets from 1931 to 2015 in New Zealand to resolve trends in important ecological properties of major exploited fish communities. Increases in community dissimilarities of catch composition in 1931 and 1972, followed by increasing total landings, highlight major expansions of fishing grounds and exploited species during these periods. Mirroring global patterns, the remarkable rise in fishing power, demand and generation of new markets in New Zealand have all contributed to this expansion. Marine Trophic Indices (MTIs) of landings have decreased together with total catch after the year 2000, reflecting smaller catches with a higher composition of lower trophic‐level species in recent years. Differences in relative abundance of species estimated between fisheries‐dependent and fisheries‐independent data were observed, where high‐value species displayed better agreement in relative abundance between data sets. Despite being under a Quota Management System, temporal development of MTI values relative to the timing of industrial expansion of fisheries was remarkably similar to those observed in the North Sea and Brazil, with a single expansion and decline. MTI values presented better long‐term stability in the US fisheries analysed. Analysis of long‐term data and the development of well‐resolved ecological baselines will be the first step towards applying EBM to New Zealand fisheries, in keeping with global trends in fisheries management.
Comparative Determination of Mass Fractions of Elements with Variable Chalcophile Affinities in Geological Reference Materials with and without HF‐desilicification
Authors: Zou Zongqi , Wang Zaicong , Cheng Huai , He Tao , Liu Yinuo , Chen Kang , Hu Zhaochu , Liu Yongsheng
Published: April 2020

Desilicification elevates extraction of Re and platinum‐group elements (PGEs) from many geological reference materials (RMs), but the extent to which it affects less chalcophile elements has been investigated rarely. To further evaluate the effect of desilicification, mass fractions of elements with variable chalcophile affinities (In, Cd, Cu, Ag, S, Se, Te, Re and PGEs) in different RMs were obtained by isotope dilution and digestion procedures involving HF‐HNO3 in bombs versus HNO3‐HCl in Carius tubes. The results show that the extraction efficiencies of HF‐desilicification vary in different RMs and for different elements. HF‐desilicification led to a significant increase (30–70%) for In and Cd mass fractions in all analysed RMs, but it played a negligible role in other strongly chalcophile elements in many samples (e.g., UB‐N and WGB‐1). Noticeably, desilicification led to a 10–30% increase in the mass fractions of Cu, Ag, S, Se and Te in BHVO‐2 and BIR‐1a, but less so in BCR‐2. These results could be attributed mainly to the variable chalcophile affinities of elements and their relative budget in sulfides, alloys and silicates. Desilicification should thus be preferred to determine chalcophile elements for most samples, except in cases where they are negligibly hosted in silicates.
Alterations in Brain Function After Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Migraine in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Nahman‐Averbuch Hadas , Schneider Victor J. , Chamberlin Leigh Ann , Kroon Van Diest Ashley M. , Peugh James L. , Lee Gregory R. , Radhakrishnan Rupa , Hershey Andrew D. , King Christopher D. , Coghill Robert C. , Powers Scott W.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

This basic mechanistic study examined the changes in brain activation and resting‐state connectivity after 8 weeks of CBT in youth with migraine.

Background

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a psychological intervention that is effective in reducing pain in migraine patients. However, the neural mechanisms underlying CBT in adolescents with migraine are not yet known.

Methods

Eighteen adolescents with migraine (15 females, age 15.1 ± 2.1 years [mean ± SD]) completed 8 weekly CBT sessions. Before the first and after the final CBT session, participants underwent structural and resting‐state blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent contrast MRI scans. Arterial spin labeling was also used to examine brain activation during the resting state. For connectivity analyses, the right and left amygdala were chosen as seed regions. Relationships of the time courses within these seeds with voxels across the whole brain were evaluated.

Results

Headache frequency decreased from 15 ± 7.4 headaches per month before CBT to 10 ± 7.4 after CBT (P < .001). After CBT, greater brain activations in frontal regions involved in cognitive regulation of pain were found. In addition, after CBT increased connectivity between the amygdala and frontal regions was observed. Associations between brain activation and amygdalar connectivity with a reduction in headache frequency were also observed.

Conclusions

Alterations in brain function and amygdalar connectivity with areas involved in nociceptive processing, cognitive function, and emotional regulation may underlie the ability of CBT to aid in the prevention of headaches in migraine patients.
Aggressive B‐cell lymphomas with a primary bone marrow presentation
Authors: Zamò Alberto , Johnston Peter , Attygalle Ayoma D , Laurent Camille , Arber Daniel A , Fend Falko
Published: April 2020

Aggressive B‐cell lymphomas present as a heterogeneous spectrum of disease. A primary diagnosis in the bone marrow (BM) may be challenging in terms of diagnostic classification and clinical handling, owing to limited architectural information. Aggressive B‐cell lymphomas can be subdivided into entities that typically present primarily in the BM, and cases with BM involvement in which the bulk of disease is present in other organs. One main topic at the 2018 BM workshop of the European Association of Haematopathology/Society of Hematopathology was therefore aggressive B‐cell lymphomas with a primary BM presentation. The spectrum of cases submitted to this topic gave a good overview of commonly encountered problems, as well as unusual manifestations, and highlighted areas of imprecise disease definitions and diagnostic grey zones. The categories submitted to the workshop included cases of Burkitt lymphoma (BL) with unusual features, high‐grade B‐cell lymphomas (HG‐BCLs) with and without so‐called double/triple‐hit, and diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas (DLBCLs) with a primary BM presentation. Areas of difficulties included the morphological boundaries of HG‐BCL not otherwise specified, cases with MYC and bcl‐2 or bcl‐6 translocations and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) expression, which were categorised as B‐cell lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma if most cells showed TdT positivity, and the clinicopathological overlap between intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma, CD5‐positive DLBCL, and DLBCL with primary presentations in the BM, spleen, and liver. This review summarises our understanding of the main aggressive B‐cell lymphoma categories with a common primary BM presentation and potential problem areas, and makes suggestions for the immunophenotypic and genetic work‐up, illustrated by the interesting and challenging cases submitted to the workshop.
A different chemical route to prepare hafnium diboride‐based nanofibers: Effect of chemical composition
Authors: Ghelich Raziyeh , Abdizadeh Hossein , Jahannama Mohammad Reza , Torknik Fatemeh Sadat , Vaezi Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2020

This study reports on the synthesis of hafnium diboride (HfB2)‐based nanofibers via electrospinning of polyhafnoxanesal (PHO)‐based solution followed by pyrolyzing hafnium‐boron containing polyvinylpyrrolidone precursor fibers by a moderate heat treatment at 1500°C under argon atmosphere. The influence of the molar ratios of C/Hf and B/Hf in preceramic polymer method is investigated on the final phase of HfB2‐based nanofibers. Structural, thermal, microstructural, and physical properties of the hafnium‐based fibers are evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG/DSC), X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction (HT‐XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscope/energy‐dispersive spectrometer (FE‐SEM/EDS), and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET). The results unveiled that the acidic pH was the optimal condition needed for obtaining the single phase of HfB2 nanofibers. The precursor fibers with the stoichiometric ratio of 1:4:5 of Hf:B:C prepared under the acidic conditions converted into pure HfB2 nanofibers having rough and porous surface after pyrolysis at 1500°C for 2 hour in argon, whereas HfB2‐HfC composite nanofibers with smooth surface were produced in the neutral conditions. The HfB2 nanofibers with a mean diameter of ~100 nm prepared under the acidic conditions showed a higher specific surface area compared to HfB2‐HfC composite nanofibers with a diameter of ~121 nm derived in the neutral conditions.
Dysregulation of NIPBL leads to impaired RUNX1 expression and haematopoietic defects
Authors: Mazzola Mara , Pezzotta Alex , Fazio Grazia , Rigamonti Alessandra , Bresciani Erica , Gaudenzi Germano , Pelleri Maria Chiara , Saitta Claudia , Ferrari Luca , Parma Matteo , Fumagalli Monica , Biondi Andrea , Cazzaniga Giovanni , Marozzi Anna , Pistocchi Anna
Published: April 2020

The transcription factor RUNX1, a pivotal regulator of HSCs and haematopoiesis, is a frequent target of chromosomal translocations, point mutations or altered gene/protein dosage. These modifications lead or contribute to the development of myelodysplasia, leukaemia or platelet disorders. A better understanding of how regulatory elements contribute to fine‐tune the RUNX1 expression in haematopoietic tissues could improve our knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for normal haematopoiesis and malignancy insurgence. The cohesin RAD21 was reported to be a regulator of RUNX1 expression in the human myeloid HL60 cell line and during primitive haematopoiesis in zebrafish. In our study, we demonstrate that another cohesin, NIPBL, exerts positive regulation of RUNX1 in three different contexts in which RUNX1 displays important functions: in megakaryocytes derived from healthy donors, in bone marrow samples obtained from adult patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and during zebrafish haematopoiesis. In this model, we demonstrate that alterations in the zebrafish orthologue nipblb reduce runx1 expression with consequent defects in its erythroid and myeloid targets such as gata1a and spi1b in an opposite way to rad21. Thus, also in the absence of RUNX1 translocation or mutations, additional factors such as defects in the expression of NIPBL might induce haematological diseases.
Association of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor‐targeted imaging probe with in vivo glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist glucose‐lowering effects
Authors: Murakami Takaaki , Fujimoto Hiroyuki , Fujita Naotaka , Hamamatsu Keita , Yabe Daisuke , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: April 2020

Aims/Introduction

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RA) are used for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus worldwide. However, some patients do not respond well to the therapy, and caution must be taken for certain patients, including those with reduced insulin secretory capacity. Thus, it is clinically important to predict the efficacy of GLP‐1RA therapy. GLP‐1R‐targeted imaging has recently emerged to visualize and quantify β‐cells. We investigated whether GLP‐1R‐targeted imaging can predict the efficacy of GLP‐1RA treatment.

Materials and Methods

We developed 111Indium‐labeled exendin‐4 derivative (111In‐Ex4) as a GLP‐1R‐targeting probe. Diabetic mice were selected from NONcNZO10/LtJ male mice that were fed for different durations with 11% fat chow. After 3‐week administration of dulaglutide as GLP‐1RA therapy, mice with non‐fasting blood glucose levels <300 mg/dL and >300 mg/dL were defined as responders and non‐responders, respectively. In addition, ex vivo 111In‐Ex4 pancreatic accumulations (111In‐Ex4 pancreatic values) were examined.

Results

The non‐fasting blood glucose levels after treatment were 172.5 ± 42.4 mg/dL in responders (n = 4) and 330.8 ± 20.7 mg/dL in non‐responders (n = 5), respectively. Ex vivo 111In‐Ex4 pancreatic values showed significant correlations with post‐treatment glycohemoglobin and glucose area under curve during an oral glucose tolerance test (R2 = 0.76 and 0.80; P < 0.01 and <0.01, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic area under curve for identifying responders by ex vivo 111In‐Ex4 pancreatic values was 1.00 (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Ex vivo 111In‐Ex4 pancreatic values reflected dulaglutide efficacy, suggesting clinical possibilities for expanding GLP‐1R‐targeted imaging applications.
Factors associated with glycemic control in type 1 diabetes patients in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Huo Lili , Deng Wei , Shaw Jonathan E , Magliano Dianna J , Zhang Puhong , McGuire Helen C , Kissimova‐Skarbek Katarzyna , Whiting David , Ji Linong
Published: April 2020

Aims/Introduction

Glycemic control in type 1 diabetes can be challenging, and is influenced by many factors. This study aimed to investigate glycemic control and its associated factors in Chinese people with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 779 participants with type 1 diabetes selected from hospital records review, outpatient clinics and inpatient wards. Data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews, medical records and venous blood samples. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine factors associated with glycemic control.

Results

Among 779 participants, 49.2% were male. The median age was 24 years (interquartile range 14–36 years). The median age at diagnosis of diabetes was 17 years (interquartile range 10–28 years) and the median duration of diabetes was 4 years (interquartile range 1–8 years). The mean ± standard deviation hemoglobin A1c was 9.1 ± 2.5%. Nearly 80% of participants had inadequate glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c ≥7.0%). Multivariable analysis showed that age at diagnosis of diabetes ≤20 years, living in a rural location, low household income, low intake of fruit and vegetables, low level of physical activity, low adherence to insulin, and low utilization of insulin pump were independent risk factors for poor glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c ≥9.0%).

Conclusions

Inadequate glycaemic control is common among people with type 1 diabetes in China. Efforts should be made to control the modifiable risk factors, which include low intake of fruit and vegetables, low level of physical activity, and low adherence to insulin for the improvement of glycemic control. Appropriate use of insulin pump among type 1 diabetes should be encouraged.
Hidradenitis suppurativa in paediatric patients: a retrospective monocentric study in Germany and review of the literature
Authors: Vaiopoulos A.G. , Nikolakis G. , Zouboulis C.C.
Published: April 2020

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory, recurrent, debilitating skin disease of the hair follicle affecting apocrine glands‐rich areas of the body. The disease usually occurs after puberty leading to painful nodules, abscesses, tunnels and scarring. Although uncommonly, HS can also occur in children and adolescents.

Objective

Our objective was to describe the epidemiology, characteristics, predisposing factors and clinical course of HS in paediatric patients.

Methods

The retrospective cohort study included patients with HS, who have been diagnosed in Dessau Medical Center and reported development of HS during childhood or adolescence, fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for HS and had a follow‐up period of at least one year. A systematic review was conducted on MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL on 19 March 2020 using the terms ‘hidradenitis’ or ‘acne inversa’ together with the terms ‘children’, ‘paediatric’ and ‘adolescence’.

Results

Twenty paediatric patients [1 child (0.22%), 19 adolescents (4.25%)] were detected out of 447 patients evaluated (4.5%) with a male to female ratio of 1.86 : 1. The median age at diagnosis was 17 years [interquartile range (IQR) 16–18] and the median age at onset 15 years (IQR: 14–16.5). The majority of the patients suffered from moderate disease were overweight or obese and non‐smokers. The most common comorbid disorder was acne vulgaris. The systematic review revealed reports with data heterogeneity and lack of systematic documentation of specific demographic characteristics. Most paediatric patients were female, obese and non‐smokers, with considerable comorbid disorders.

Conclusions

Hidradenitis suppurativa in Germany may affect children and adolescents exhibiting a particular phenotype of mainly male non‐smokers.
Estimating Judicial Ideal Points in Bi‐Dimensional Courts: Evidence from Catalonia
Authors: Dalla Pellegrina Lucia , Garoupa Nuno , Gili Marian
Published: April 2020

The empirical literature has consistently shown that judicial ideal points can be estimated in a one‐dimensional space that reflects the traditional conservative‐progressive dichotomy. In this article, we develop an empirical methodology to analyze some features that may characterize bi‐dimensional courts when dissenting opinions are not frequent. We apply the analysis to the particular case of the Consell de Garanties Estatutàries de Catalunya (Catalan Constitutional Court). The results illustrate that judicial preferences on conservative‐progressive grounds are likely to affect the decision outcome of the Court on issues having significant public policy content. Conversely, judicial preferences regarding Spanish‐Catalan sovereignty tend to encroach on judgments concerning public policy, thus affecting the outcome of all judgments of the Court regardless of content type. Furthermore, we find that judicial preferences in the Spanish‐Catalan sovereignty dimension are pervasive enough to shift the outcome of all types of decisions in favor of Catalan institutions. Policy conclusions are derived.
Combined control of Lasioderma serricorne (F.) and Ephestia elutella (Hbn.) in a tobacco processing facility by attracticide method
Authors: Trematerra Pasquale
Published: April 2020

Results on application of attracticide method in the combined control of cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne and tobacco moth, Ephestia elutella, infesting a tobacco processing facility are reported. Experimental devices with cross‐panel stripes treated with microencapsulated permethrin at 6% (a.i.) and baited at same time with (4,6‐dimethyl‐7‐hydroxynonan‐3‐one) serricornin and (Z,E)‐9,12‐tetradecadien‐1 ol acetate (TDA) were used for 2 years (2017 and 2018) in an Italian tobacco processing facility. The experiment demonstrated that the presence of both serricornin and TDA dispensers on cross‐panel striped devices had no affect on the numbers of L. serricorne and E. elutella male adults caught. After 2 years, the densities of adult males were clearly suppressed in room treated with attracticide compared to control room. Thus, the 2017–2018 experiment suggests that attracticide devices with two pheromone lures and microencapsulated permethrin at 6% (a.i.) can be effective suppression tools for managing combined pest populations of L. serricorne and E. elutella in tobacco facilities. The reduction of male infestation by L. serricorne ranged from 36% to 87%, and in E. elutella, the reduction of infestation ranged from 63% to 91%.
Where art thou louse? A snapshot of attachment location preferences in salmon lice on Atlantic salmon hosts in sea cages
Authors: Bui Samantha , Oppedal Frode , Nola Velimir , Barrett Luke T.
Published: April 2020

Problematic sea lice infestations on farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) have motivated extensive research and development into new methods to prevent, monitor and control sea lice. Most of these technologies require detailed information on the behaviour, spatial distribution and demography of lice on host fish. This study investigated how salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) infestation density varies across the host's surface under sea cage farming conditions. Lice abundance, demography and attachment location were tracked over time, with repeated sampling of 300 individually tagged salmon across three replicate experimental sea cages. The data reveal clear differences in attachment locations according to sex and stage, but with an overall preference for the dorsal surface among mobile stages—dorsal head for adult females and dorsal‐posterior section for males and pre‐adults. Total lice abundance was highly variable between repeated measures of individual fish, consistent with frequent host‐switching or mortality. Total lice numbers also declined between sampling dates, likely due to handling, with lost mobile lice being almost exclusively adult males. As the distribution of sea lice on hosts is likely determined by numerous factors, future image‐based automated detection systems should be validated in settings that reflect the complex host–parasite interactions that occur in open farming systems.
Fractional microneedling radiofrequency in striae alba: Do growth factors add value?
Authors: Afify Ahmed Abdelfattah , Fawzy Heba M. , Ali Al‐Rubaiay Nuha Hussain , Abdallah Marwa
Published: April 2020

Background

Various treatment modalities have been applied to treat striae alba (SA) with low satisfaction rate. Fractional microneedling radiofrequency (FMR) provides deep dermal coagulation, thereby inducing collagen synthesis and tissue tightening. The addition of platelet‐derived lyophilized growth factors may add to the effect of FMR.

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of FMR alone or combined with lyophilized growth factors in the treatment of SA.

Methods

In this left‐right comparative study, 25 patients suffering from SA on the abdomen received four sessions of FMR with lyophilized growth factors on one side and with saline (as placebo) on the other side at 4 weeks interval. Photographic and biopsy documentation of the progress of the SA was carried out before the start of the treatment and 4 weeks after the last session. Calculation of the width of SA before treatment and after 4 sessions was done by Adobe Photoshop CS6.

Results

There was a significant improvement in SA width after treatment in both the lyophilized growth factors (P = <.0001) and placebo sides (P = <.0001), the lyophilized growth factors being superior (P = .002). Patient satisfaction was more on the lyophilized growth factors (LGF) side (P = .034). Erythema and hyperpigmentation were less on the lyophilized growth factors side. Histopathologically, both showed improvement with no difference between LGF and placebo (epidermal thickness (P = .456), collagen content (P = .297), elastin content (P = .239)).

Conclusion

The combination of FMR and lyophilized growth factors improves SA outcome.
Effectiveness of topical interventions to prevent or treat intravenous therapy‐related phlebitis: A systematic review
Authors: Goulart Cristina B. , Custódio Carolina S. , Vasques Christiane I. , Ferreira Elaine B. , Diniz dos Reis Paula E.
Published: April 2020

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of topical interventions in the prevention or treatment of intravenous therapy‐related phlebitis.

Background

Phlebitis is a severe inflammatory reaction that can be caused by intravenous therapy with hyperosmolar drugs. Although a variety of interventions are performed in several different countries, the most efficient method is yet to be established.

Design

A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted.

Methods

Following the PRISMA checklist, we conducted a literature search using seven different databases using an individual strategy adapted for each. Studies in which any topical intervention was applied to prevent or treat intravenous therapy‐related phlebitis which were published between 1998 and 2019 were analysed.

Results

Data were collected of 13 RCTs, which in total collected data from 2,015 patients during hospital treatments with different types of intravenous therapies, such as fluid replacement, antibiotics, chemotherapy and antiarrhythmic drugs. The effectiveness of different topical interventions such as the application of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs,Sesame indicumoil, heparin sodium formulations,Chamomilla recutitatea and ointment, andRosmarinus officinalisointment were identified.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Although the studies suggest a potential to use phytotherapy agents as topical interventions, pharmaceutical preparations, main substrate, and pharmaceutical or phytotherapeutic origins are very different between studies. There are insufficient data to build a solid conclusion that lead us to recommend a specific topical intervention in the prevention or treatment of intravenous therapy‐related phlebitis.
Major imprint of surface plankton on deep ocean prokaryotic structure and activity
Authors: Ruiz‐González Clara , Mestre Mireia , Estrada Marta , Sebastián Marta , Salazar Guillem , Agustí Susana , Moreno‐Ostos Enrique , Reche Isabel , Álvarez‐Salgado Xosé Antón , Morán Xosé Anxelu G. , Duarte Carlos M. , Sala M. Montserrat , Gasol Josep M.
Published: April 2020

Deep ocean microbial communities rely on the organic carbon produced in the sunlit ocean, yet it remains unknown whether surface processes determine the assembly and function of bathypelagic prokaryotes to a larger extent than deep‐sea physicochemical conditions. Here, we explored whether variations in surface phytoplankton assemblages across Atlantic, Pacific and Indian ocean stations can explain structural changes in bathypelagic (ca. 4,000 m) free‐living and particle‐attached prokaryotic communities (characterized through 16S rRNA gene sequencing), as well as changes in prokaryotic activity and dissolved organic matter (DOM) quality. We show that the spatial structuring of prokaryotic communities in the bathypelagic strongly followed variations in the abundances of surface dinoflagellates and ciliates, as well as gradients in surface primary productivity, but were less influenced by bathypelagic physicochemical conditions. Amino acid‐like DOM components in the bathypelagic reflected variations of those components in surface waters, and seemed to control bathypelagic prokaryotic activity. The imprint of surface conditions was more evident in bathypelagic than in shallower mesopelagic (200–1,000 m) communities, suggesting a direct connectivity through fast‐sinking particles that escape mesopelagic transformations. Finally, we identified a pool of endemic deep‐sea prokaryotic taxa (including potentially chemoautotrophic groups) that appear less connected to surface processes than those bathypelagic taxa with a widespread vertical distribution. Our results suggest that surface planktonic communities shape the spatial structure of the bathypelagic microbiome to a larger extent than the local physicochemical environment, likely through determining the nature of the sinking particles and the associated prokaryotes reaching bathypelagic waters.
Ophthalmic clinical skills teaching in the time of COVID‐19: A crisis and opportunity
Authors: Shih Kendrick Co , Chan Jonathan Cheuk‐Hung , Chen Julie Yun , Lai Jimmy Shiu‐Ming
Published: April 2020

With this issue we begin print publishing the responses received in our call for Medical Education Adaptations: Lessons learned from educators' experiences rapidly transforming practice on account of COVID‐19 related disruption.
A plea for contrastive instructions
Authors: Hautz Wolf E. , Kämmer Juliane E.
Published: April 2020

Yet again common sense is found to mislead as Hautz and Kämmer encourage us towards discriminating instructional approaches over disease‐oriented teaching.
‘Hands‐on’ ideas to provide student‐targeted clinical reasoning educational interventions
Authors: Ribeiro Ligia Maria Cayres , Moura Alexandre Sampaio
Published: April 2020

How can clinical teachers bridge the gap between clinical reasoning research and the real world of their practice? Ribeiro and Moura explore learning opportunities tailored to student characteristics.
Alteration of protein homeostasis mediates the interaction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Yang Nana , Cao Qiao , Hu Shuyang , Xu Chenchen , Fan Ke , Chen Feifei , Yang Cai‐Guang , Liang Haihua , Wu Min , Bae Taeok , Lan Lefu
Published: April 2020

Intracellular protein degradation is essential for the survival of all organisms, but its role in interspecies interaction is unknown. Here, we show that the ClpXP protease of Pseudomonas aeruginosa suppresses its antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, a common pathogen co‐isolated with P. aeruginosa from polymicrobial human infections. Using proteomic, biochemical, and molecular genetic approaches, we found that this effect is due to the inhibitory effects of ClpXP on the quorum sensing (QS) of P. aeruginosa, mainly by degrading proteins (e.g., PhnA, PhnB, PqsR, and RhlI) which are critical for the production of QS signal molecules PQS and C4‐HSL. We provide evidence that co‐culturing with S. aureus induces a decrease in the activity of ClpXP in P. aeruginosa, an effect which was also achieved by the treatment of P. aeruginosa with N‐acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), a widespread chemical present on the surface of diverse cell types from bacteria to humans. These findings extend the range of biological events governed by proteolytic machinery to microbial community structure, thus also suggesting that a chemical‐induced alteration of protein homeostasis is a mechanism for interspecies interactions.
Investment by Chinese Enterprise in Infrastructure Construction in Malaysia
Authors: Zhang Xiekui , Song Wei , Peng Lu
Published: April 2020

In the context of the Belt and Road Initiative, the short‐ and long‐term development strategies of China and Malaysia are highly consistent. Malaysia attaches great importance to infrastructure construction, while China is actively strengthening connectivity with ASEAN countries, providing both opportunities and challenges for Chinese enterprises investing in infrastructure construction in Malaysia. Through an analysis of detailed case studies, we analyze the background of Chinese infrastructure investment in Malaysia, examine major infrastructure projects invested and participated in by Chinese enterprises in recent years, identify the challenges to investment projects in infrastructure construction, and track the Sino‐Malaysian responses to these investments. This article gives perspective to the trends of Sino‐Malaysian relations in these investment activities.
Association of tidal volume during mechanical ventilation with postoperative pulmonary complications in pediatric patients undergoing major scoliosis surgery
Authors: Ren Yi , Liu Jie , Nie Xiaolu , Liu Lin , Fu Wenya , Zhao Xin , Zheng Tiehua , Xu Zenghua , Cai Jingjing , Wang Fang , Li Lijing , Xin Zhong , Hua Lei , Hu Jing , Zhang Jianmin
Published: April 2020

Background

The use of lung‐protective ventilation strategies with low tidal volumes may reduce the occurrence of postoperative pulmonary complications. However, evidence of the association of intraoperative tidal volume settings with pulmonary complications in pediatric patients undergoing major spinal surgery is insufficient.

Aims

This study examined whether postoperative pulmonary complications were related to tidal volume in this population and, if so, what factors affected the association.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data from pediatric patients (<18 years old) who underwent posterior spinal fusion between 2016 and 2018 were collected from the hospital electronic medical record. The associations between tidal volume and the clinical outcomes were examined by multivariate logistic regression and stratified analysis.

Results

Postoperative pulmonary complications occurred in 41 (16.1%) of 254 patients who met the inclusion criteria. For the entire cohort, tidal volume was associated with an elevated risk of pulmonary complications (adjusted odds ratio [OR] per 1 mL/kg ideal body weight [IBW] increase in tidal volume, 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐1.63, P = .038). In subgroup analysis, tidal volume was associated with an increased risk of pulmonary complications in patients older than 3 years (adjusted OR per 1 mL/kg IBW increase in tidal volume, 1.43, 95% CI: 1.12‐1.84), but not in patients aged 3 years or younger (adjusted OR, 0.78, 95% CI: 0.46‐1.35), indicating a significant age interaction (P = .035).

Conclusion

In pediatric patients undergoing major spinal surgery, high tidal volume was associated with an elevated risk of postoperative pulmonary complications. However, the effect of tidal volume on pulmonary outcomes in the young subgroup (≤3 years) differed from that in the old (>3 years). Such information may help to optimize ventilation strategy for children of different ages.