bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homogeneous internal structure of CM-like asteroid (41) Daphne
Authors: Carry B. , Vachier F. , Berthier J. , Marsset M. , Vernazza P. , Grice J. , Merline W. J. , Lagadec E. , Fienga A. , Conrad A. , Podlewska-Gaca E. , Santana-Ros T. , Viikinkoski M. , Hanuš J. , Dumas C. , Drummond J. D. , Tamblyn P. M. , Chapman C. R. , Behrend R. , Bernasconi L. , Bartczak P. , Benkhaldoun Z. , Birlan M. , Castillo-Rogez J. , Cipriani F. , Colas F. , Drouard A. , Ďurech J. , Enke B. L. , Fauvaud S. , Ferrais M. , Fetick R. , Fusco T. , Gillon M. , Jehin E. , Jorda L. , Kaasalainen M. , Keppler M. , Kryszczynska A. , Lamy P. , Marchis F. , Marciniak A. , Michalowski T. , Michel P. , Pajuelo M. , Tanga P. , Vigan A. , Warner B. , Witasse O. , Yang B. , Zurlo A.
Published: January 2019

Context.CM-like asteroids (Ch and Cgh classes) are a major population within the broader C-complex, encompassing about 10% of the mass of the main asteroid belt. Their internal structure has been predicted to be homogeneous, based on their compositional similarity as inferred from spectroscopy and numerical modeling of their early thermal evolution.

Aims.Here we aim to test this hypothesis by deriving the density of the CM-like asteroid (41) Daphne from detailed modeling of its shape and the orbit of its small satellite.

Methods.We observed Daphne and its satellite within our imaging survey with the Very Large Telescope extreme adaptive-optics SPHERE/ZIMPOL camera and complemented this data set with earlier Keck/NIRC2 and VLT/NACO observations. We analyzed the dynamics of the satellite with ourGenoidmeta-heuristic algorithm. Combining our high-angular resolution images with optical lightcurves and stellar occultations, we determine the spin period, orientation, and 3D shape, using ourADAMshape modeling algorithm.

Results.The satellite orbits Daphne on an equatorial, quasi-circular, prograde orbit, like the satellites of many other large main-belt asteroids. The shape model of Daphne reveals several large flat areas that could be large impact craters. The mass determined from this orbit combined with the volume computed from the shape model implies a density for Daphne of 1.77 ± 0.26 g cm−3(3σ). This densityis consistent with a primordial CM-like homogeneous internal structure with some level of macroporosity (≈ 17%).

Conclusions.Based on our analysis of the density of Daphne and 75 other Ch/Cgh-type asteroids gathered from the literature, we conclude that the primordial internal structure of the CM parent bodies was homogeneous.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy for diagnosis of gastric subepithelial tumors: a pilot study
Authors: Zhang Ming-Ming , Zhong Ning , Wang Xiao , Li Chang-Qing , Ji Rui , Li Zhen , Gu Xiang , Yu Yan-Bo , Li Li-Xiang , Zuo Xiu-Li , Li Yan-Qing
Published: January 2019

Background The diagnostic yield of current techniques for gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs) is suboptimal. This prospective study aimed to develop diagnostic criteria for needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) of gastric SETs, and to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy, feasibility, and safety of endoscopic ultrasound-guided nCLE (EUS-nCLE).

Methods Eligible patients were prospectively recruited to undergo EUS-nCLE. Four unblinded investigators evaluated nCLE videos and corresponding histopathology to develop the nCLE criteria. The recorded nCLE videos were reviewed off-line by one endoscopist 3 months later. Image quality (five-point scale, 1 = poor and 5 = very good) and the interobserver agreements were assessed.

Results All 33 patients underwent successful EUS-nCLE procedures. The nCLE criteria for gastric SETs were established. Overall accuracy of off-line nCLE was significantly higher than that of EUS alone (87.9 % vs. 63.6 %; P = 0.02). The mean image quality score was 3.9. The kappa values of the interobserver agreements were 0.66 for gastrointestinal stromal tumor, 0.89 for ectopic pancreas, 0.58 for leiomyoma, and 0.72 for carcinoma.

Conclusions EUS-nCLE was feasible and safe to accurately diagnose gastric SETs.
VIS-IT: Visualizing the Injured Tibia—A Cadaveric Study of Limb Positioning for Posterolateral Tibial Plateau Fracture Visualization
Authors: Kendal Joseph K. , Clark Damian , Longino David , Marion Travis E. , Buckley Richard , Schneider Prism S. , Martin Ryan
Published: January 2019

Posterolateral tibial plateau (PLTP) fractures are often associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) incompetence, such as tibial eminence fractures. Both occur from a pivot shift like mechanism. Malreductions of the tibial plateau most frequently occur in the posterolateral quadrant. Acquiring adequate intraoperative visualization of the PLTP poses a challenge. We hypothesized that visualization of PLTP could be improved by positioning the knee at 110 degrees of flexion with the addition of a varus anterolateral rotatory vector. This position and maneuver take advantage of both the nonisometric nature of the lateral soft tissues and, when present, ACL incompetence. In this cadaveric study, we digitally quantified the percentage of the lateral tibial plateau visualized under different conditions after performing an anterolateral surgical approach with submeniscal arthrotomy. Four conditions were assessed for articular visualization: (1) 30 degrees of knee flexion, (2) 110 degrees of knee flexion, (3) 110-degrees of knee flexion plus varus anterolateral rotatory vector, (4) 110-degrees of knee flexion plus varus anterolateral rotatory vector with ACL sacrifice (ACL incompetence model). In the ACL competent models, maximal lateral tibial plateau exposure was obtained with the knee positioned at 110 degrees of flexion with a varus anterolateral rotatory vector (58.2%, range: 52.9–63.4%). Articular visualization was further improved with the ACL incompetent model (82.4%, range: 77.1–87.7%), modeling a tibial eminence fracture.
Microsurgical and Endoscope Assisted Resection of a Right Intracanalicular Vestibular Schwannoma Two-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Cheng Chun-Yu , Qazi Zeeshan , Sekhar Laligam N.
Published: January 2019

A 36-year-old lady presented with tinnitus and hearing loss for 1 year which was progressively worsening. A hearing test revealed pure tone average (PTA) between 48 to 65 dB and speech discrimination of 56% at 95 dB. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a right vestibular schwannoma 5 × 8 mm (Fig. 1) which extended far laterally to the fundus of internal auditory canal (IAC). A translabyrinthine approach was suggested by another neurosurgeon/neurotologist team, but the patient decided to undergo operation by retrosigmoid approach with attempted hearing preservation.

She underwent a right retrosigmoid craniotomy, craniectomy, and mastoidectomy with far lateral approach. We performed petrous transcanalicular microsurgical approach with the assistance of neuroendoscope. Intraoperatively, the internal auditory artery was looping into the IAC between cranial nerves VII and VIII, and coming out inferiorly. The IAC was opened by the diamond drill, ultrasonic bone curette, and fine rongeurs. The tumor was grayish in color with filling the lateral aspect of the IAC. After circumferential dissection of the tumor capsule, the tumor was removed completely. It was arising from the inferior vestibular nerve which was stretched. The patient had vertigo and nausea postoperatively but it is steadily improving. Her hearing test has improved to a PTA of 22 dB and speech discrimination of 100% at 70 dB at 6 weeks. The postoperative MRI showed total resection.

This two-dimensional video shows the technical nuances of microsurgical retrosigmoid approach and endoscopic assisted resection of an intracanalicular vestibular schwannoma and the value of attempting hearing preservation in all vestibular schwannomas (Fig. 2).

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/KHrO_iDI2tw.
Microscopic calculation of the optical properties and intrinsic losses in the methylammonium lead iodide perovskite system
Authors: Bannow Lars C. , Hader Jörg , Moloney Jerome V. , Koch Stephan W.
Published: January 2019

For opto-electronic and photo-voltaic applications of perovskites, it is essential to know the optical properties and intrinsic losses of the used materials. A systematic microscopic analysis is presented for the example of methylammonium lead iodide where density functional theory is applied to calculate the electronic band structure as well as the dipole and Coulomb matrix elements. These results serve as input for a many-body quantum approach used to compute the absorption, photoluminescence, and the optical and Auger losses for a wide range of application conditions. To illustrate the theory, the excitonic properties of the material system are investigated and numerical results are presented for typical photo-voltaic operation conditions and for the elevated carrier densities needed for laser operation.
Use of collaborative funding to implement the Remedial Action Plan for the St. Louis River Area of Concern, Minnesota, USA
Authors: French N. T. , Dekker T. , Hartig J. H.
Published: January 2019

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, collaborative funding by some of the nation’s leading tycoons led to development of Duluth, Minnesota and the surrounding area. This included Andrew Carnegie, Jay Cooke, Andrew Mellon, J. P. Morgan and John D. Rockefeller, to name a few. This tremendous period of growth and expansion included major industrial developments, including grain, lumber, iron mining, manufacturing, rail, shipping and shipbuilding, and associated development of the frontier. Although critical to the development of a vital community, these activities took a toll through unchecked alteration of natural habitat and contamination of St. Louis River estuary sediments. These adverse legacy impacts, which occurred well before the establishment of our current environmental regulatory framework, became well recognized in 1985 when the International Joint Commission’s Great Lakes Water Quality Board identified the St. Louis River as an Area of Concern requiring the development and implementation of a remedial action plan to restore all impaired beneficial uses. This commitment to Remedial Action Plans was then codified in the 1987 Protocol to the U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The initial Stage 1 Remedial Action Plans for the St Louis River Area of Concern was completed in 1992 with the initial Stage 2 Remedial Action Plan completed in 1995, followed by periodic updates through 2012. However, these updates did not have budgets and action timelines necessary to secure the financial commitments to implement identified actions. Establishment of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in 2010 led to the 2013 Remedial Action Plan update (i.e. Stage 2 Remedial Action Plan) that included a business plan that identified specific actions, timelines, and budget estimates. Minnesota began implementing recommendations utilizing collaborative funding through a partnership approach. Ninety-nine percent of the actions identified in the Remedial Action Plan have been completed or are currently underway. Funding needs and sources have been clearly identified and the project is on track to complete major actions by 2020 and remove all beneficial use impairments and delist as an Area of Concern, dependent upon confirmation of use restoration, by 2025.
Borderization theatre: geopolitical entrepreneurship on the South Ossetia boundary line, 2008–2018
Authors: Toal (Gearóid Ó Tuathail) Gerard , Merabishvili Gela
Published: January 2019

Borderization refers to the construction of physical barriers to transform a territorial ceasefire line into an international border. The term was used first by European Union officials to refer to the administrative boundary line between Georgia and de facto state of South Ossetia. The article analyses how physical border construction in this area became a theatre of symbolic (geo)political gamesmanship, a background prop for political competition between Georgian domestic parties and a pilgrimage site for visualizing Georgia’s victimhood to international audiences. Presenting borderization as evidence of domestic irresoluteness or geopolitical aggression is a rhetorical gambit that may or may not work. Those most associated with it in Georgian domestic politics lost power. Internationally, though, borderization is now part of standard litanies of Russian geopolitical aggression, cited even by politicians who support border walls. The relative success of Georgia’s borderization theatre complexifies hegemonic socialization arguments for it reveals the capacity of small states to socialize hegemonic states into sharing their tropes of victimhood and vulnerability.
Nonlinear excitations in magnetic lattices with long-range interactions
Authors: Molerón Miguel , Chong C , Martínez Alejandro J , Porter Mason A , Kevrekidis P G , Daraio Chiara
Published: January 2019

We study—experimentally, theoretically, and numerically—nonlinear excitations in lattices of magnets with long-range interactions. We examine breather solutions, which are spatially localized and periodic in time, in a chain with algebraically-decaying interactions. It was established two decades ago (Flach 1998 Phys. Rev. E 58 R4116) that lattices with long-range interactions can have breather solutions in which the spatial decay of the tails has a crossover from exponential to algebraic decay. In this article, we revisit this problem in the setting of a chain of repelling magnets with a mass defect and verify, both numerically and experimentally, the existence of breathers with such a crossover.
8. The banking crisis and its aftermath
Authors: Davis Mark H. A.
Published: January 2019

What happened to the banks in 2008 and what has been the fallout for mathematical finance? ‘The banking crisis and its aftermath’ explains that for mathematical finance it has meant a complete reorientation. The traditional topics of pricing and arbitrage theory live on, and are still important, but are no longer the sole focus of research since fundamentally the theory is complete, and also because most of the more ‘exotic’ contracts have become unviable in the new regulatory environment. On the other hand, a whole raft of new questions concerning the behaviour and interaction of markets has opened up, and the implications of new technology—FinTech—must be taken on board.
6. Chelonians
Authors: Kemp T. S.
Published: January 2019

Chelonians are the tortoises, terrapins, and turtles, with the single most characteristic feature being the shell, made up of a small number of very large scales, immovably joined to one another. Inside the shell, the number of vertebrae has been greatly reduced and all traces of the lateral undulation of the body typical of most reptiles have vanished. ‘Chelonians’ explains that this greatly affects other aspects of their anatomy and biology, such as how they walk, breathe, and feed. The roughly 320 species of living chelonians fall into two groups: the Pleurodira (the side-necked turtles) and the Cryptodira, far the most diverse of the two.
7. The future of the world’s reptiles
Authors: Kemp T. S.
Published: January 2019

The world’s reptile fauna is facing the threat of a considerable reduction in the number of species. One estimate is that by 2050 over 500 species, around 5 per cent, will have been lost. By 2080, the figure will have grown to 20 per cent, which is approximately 2,000 species. ‘The future of the world’s reptiles’ explains that the threats to reptiles are: commercial exploitation for food, medicines, and ornament; habitat destruction; global climate change; and pollution. Any comprehensive effort to conserve needs to address all of these. By far the most important way to conserve reptiles is setting up and regulating various kinds of protected area. Another important approach is legislation to control trade in reptiles.
Lewis on the way
Authors: Como James
Published: January 2019

‘Lewis on the way’ describes the many images of C. S. Lewis—the author and the man. He was a Christian writer, religious and social philosopher, teacher, conversationalist, and general man of letters; he was imaginative and rational, authoritative and familiar, witty though intellectually severe, combative and mild, certain yet somehow restrained, defiant and unfashionable while also gregarious, good-humoured, and popular to the point of being charismatic. It concludes that his personal influence upon millions of people is deep, significant, and abiding, and his personality and life continue to arouse interest. His many voices have produced a trenchant body of work that includes hallmarks of its many types, remains relevant, and invites commentary.
Fame
Authors: Como James
Published: January 2019

‘Fame’ discusses C. S. Lewis’s work through the 1940s and the rise of his vocation as an apologist. It considers The Screwtape Letters (1942) and his vastly popular BBC talks (which were all to be consolidated and edited by Lewis as Mere Christianity, 1952). Amid prodigious letter writing, he continues the tradition of walking tours with Warren and others from the 1930s and converses with the Inklings. His thoughts on Milton’s Paradise Lost are discussed along with his ideas on the difference between primary and secondary epics. The Abolition of Man, The Great Divorce, and his cosmic mythological fiction—Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength—are also considered.
Identifying Aesthetically Appealing Upper Eyelid Topographic Proportions
Authors: Vaca Elbert E , Bricker Jonathan T , Helenowski Irene , Park Eugene D , Alghoul Mohammed S
Published: January 2019

Background

The goal of upper eyelid procedures is to restore or create the ideal proportions between the pretarsal space and the upper lid fold.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to define the topographic features of the attractive upper lid.

Methods

Caucasian female frontal facial photographs were obtained from public media and periorbital areas were cropped. A total of 294 photographs of eyes were rated by 6 evaluators using a 4-point Likert scale. Eyes rating an average ≥3.5 were defined as “attractive,” whereas those rated ≤2.0 were defined as “unattractive” and analyzed using Adobe Illustrator.

Results

Fifty-one and 19 eyes were included in the attractive and unattractive cohorts, respectively. (Upper lid foldPretarsal) shows ratios averaged between 1.8 and 3.0 among attractive eyes, and larger ratios were observed laterally. These ratios were significantly larger laterally among attractive vs unattractive eyes (P ≤ 0.003). The lash line peak (P < 10–4), lid crease peak (P < 10–3), and brow peak (P < 0.05) were significantly more lateralized in attractive eyes.

Conclusions

Attractive eyes tend to exhibit decreased pretarsal show. However, there is pronounced variability in these ratios among attractive eyes, suggesting the importance of other features. Interestingly, progressive lateralization of the lash line, lid crease, and brow peaks appears to be an undescribed feature common to attractive eyes. Knowledge of attractive eyelid features may be an important consideration for planning and optimization of upper lid rejuvenation procedures.
Rapid alignment-free phylogenetic identification of metagenomic sequences
Authors: Linard Benjamin , Swenson Krister , Pardi Fabio
Published: January 2019

Motivation

Taxonomic classification is at the core of environmental DNA analysis. When a phylogenetic tree can be built as a prior hypothesis to such classification, phylogenetic placement (PP) provides the most informative type of classification because each query sequence is assigned to its putative origin in the tree. This is useful whenever precision is sought (e.g. in diagnostics). However, likelihood-based PP algorithms struggle to scale with the ever-increasing throughput of DNA sequencing.

Results

We have developed RAPPAS (Rapid Alignment-free Phylogenetic Placement via Ancestral Sequences) which uses an alignment-free approach, removing the hurdle of query sequence alignment as a preliminary step to PP. Our approach relies on the precomputation of a database of k-mers that may be present with non-negligible probability in relatives of the reference sequences. The placement is performed by inspecting the stored phylogenetic origins of the k-mers in the query, and their probabilities. The database can be reused for the analysis of several different metagenomes. Experiments show that the first implementation of RAPPAS is already faster than competing likelihood-based PP algorithms, while keeping similar accuracy for short reads. RAPPAS scales PP for the era of routine metagenomic diagnostics.

Availability and implementation

Program and sources freely available for download at https://github.com/blinard-BIOINFO/RAPPAS.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Hippocampal Interaction With Area 25, but not Area 32, Regulates Marmoset Approach–Avoidance Behavior
Authors: Wallis Chloe U , Cockcroft Gemma J , Cardinal Rudolf N , Roberts Angela C , Clarke Hannah F
Published: January 2019

Affective disorders are associated with increased sensitivity to negative feedback that influences approach–avoidance decision making. Although neuroimaging studies of these disorders reveal dysregulation in primate cingulate areas 25 and 32 and the anterior hippocampus (aHipp), the causal involvement of these structures and their interaction in the primate brain is unknown. We therefore investigated the effects of localized pharmacological manipulations of areas 25 and 32 and/or the aHipp of the marmoset monkey on performance of an anxiolytic-sensitive instrumental decision-making task in which an approach–avoidance conflict is created by pairing a response with reward and punishment. During control infusions animals avoided punishment, but this bias was reduced by increasing glutamate release within the aHipp or area 32, and inactivation or 5-HT1a antagonism within area 25. Conversely, increasing glutamate release in area 25 enhanced punishment avoidance but, in contrast to previous reports, area 32 and aHipp inactivations had no effect. Simultaneous inactivation or 5-HT1a antagonism within area 25, but not area 32, abolished the reduced punishment avoidance seen after increasing aHipp glutamate. Besides providing causal evidence that these primate areas differentially regulate negative feedback sensitivity, this study links the decision-making deficits in affective disorders to aberrant aHipp–area 25 circuit activity.
The Increasing Prevalence of Obesity in Residents of U.S. Nursing Homes: 2005–2015
Authors: Zhang Ning , Field Terry , Mazor Kathleen M , Zhou Yanhua , Lapane Kate L , Gurwitz Jerry H
Published: January 2019

Background

Obesity prevalence has been increasing over decades among the U.S. population. This study analyzed trends in obesity prevalence among long-stay nursing home residents from 2005 to 2015.

Methods

Data came from the Minimum Data Sets (2005–2015). The study population was limited to long-stay residents (ie, those residing in a nursing home ≥100 days in a year). Residents were stratified into body mass index (BMI)-based groups: underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25), overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30), and obese (BMI ≥ 30); residents with obesity were further categorized as having Class I (30 ≤ BMI < 35), Class II (35 ≤ BMI < 40), or Class III (BMI ≥ 40) obesity. Minimum Data Sets assessments for 2015 were used to compare clinical and functional characteristics across these groups.

Results

Obesity prevalence increased from 22.4% in 2005 to 28.0% in 2015. The prevalence of Class III obesity increased from 4.0% to 6.2%. The prevalence of underweight, normal weight, and overweight decreased from 8.5% to 7.2%, from 40.3% to 37.1%, and from 28.9% to 27.8%, respectively. In 2015, compared with residents with normal weight, residents with obesity were younger, were less likely to be cognitively impaired, had high levels of mobility impairment, and were more likely to have important medical morbidities.

Conclusions and Relevance

There was a steady upward trend in obesity prevalence among nursing home residents for 2005–2015. Medical and functional characteristics of these residents may affect the type and level of care required, putting financial and staffing pressure on nursing homes.
Gender differences in relationships between sociodemographic factors and e-cigarette use with smoking cessation: 2014–15 current population survey tobacco use supplement
Authors: Abrams Leah R , Kalousova Lucie , Fleischer Nancy L
Published: January 2019

Background

There is conflicting evidence regarding whether men and women are equally likely to quit smoking. We assessed whether gender differences in smoking cessation varied between different sociodemographic groups and across e-cigarette use.

Methods

The 2014–15 cross-section of the Current Population Survey Tobacco Use Supplement was weighted to represent the US adult population of current/former smokers (N = 16 040). Log binomial models tested whether gender modified the relationships between race/ethnicity, education, income or e-cigarette use and 90-day smoking cessation in the past year.

Results

Gender was not associated with cessation in adjusted models (RR = 0.97, CI: 0.85, 1.11). There were no statistically significant interactions between gender and sociodemographic covariates. Current e-cigarette use was associated with higher cessation (RR = 1.53, CI: 1.30, 1.81), and the association varied by gender (Interaction P = 0.013). While male e-cigarette users had a 15% predicted cessation in the past year (CI: 12, 18%), female users had a 9% predicted cessation (95% CI: 7, 11%). Probability of cessation for female e-cigarette users was not different from non-users.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that there are no gender differences in smoking cessation in the USA overall, or by sociodemographic groups. Current e-cigarette use is associated with higher likelihood of recent successful smoking cessation, particularly for men.
Rank Effects in Bargaining: Evidence from Government Formation
Authors: Fujiwara Thomas , Sanz Carlos
Published: January 2019

Theories of multilateral bargaining and coalition formation applied to legislatures predict that parties’ seat shares determine their bargaining power. We present findings that are difficult to reconcile with this prediction, but consistent with a norm prescribing that “the most voted party should form the government”. We first present case studies from several countries and regression discontinuity design-based evidence from twenty-eight national European parliaments. We then focus on 2,898 Spanish municipal elections in which two parties tie in the number of seats. We find that the party with slightly more general election votes is substantially more likely to appoint the mayor. Since tied parties should (on average) have equal bargaining power, this identifies the effect of being labeled the most voted. This effect is comparable to that of obtaining an additional seat, and is also present when a right-wing party is the most voted and the second and third most voted parties are allied left-wing parties who can form a combined majority. A model where elections both aggregate information and discipline incumbents can rationalize our results and yields additional predictions we take to the data, such as voters punishing second most voted parties that appoint mayors.
Use of combined hormonal contraceptives among women with systemic lupus erythematosus with and without medical contraindications to oestrogen
Authors: Mendel Arielle , Bernatsky Sasha , Pineau Christian A , St-Pierre Yvan , Hanly John G , Urowitz Murray B , Clarke Ann E , Romero-Diaz Juanita , Gordon Caroline , Bae Sang-Cheol , Wallace Daniel J , Merrill Joan T , Buyon Jill , Isenberg David A , Rahman Anisur , Ginzler Ellen M , Petri Michelle , Dooley Mary Anne , Fortin Paul , Gladman Dafna D , Steinsson Kristján , Ramsey-Goldman Rosalind , Khamashta Munther A , Aranow Cynthia , Mackay Meggan , Alarcón Graciela , Manzi Susan , Nived Ola , Jönsen Andreas , Zoma Asad A , van Vollenhoven Ronald F , Ramos-Casals Manuel , Ruiz-Irastorza Giuillermo , Lim Sam , Kalunian Kenneth C , Inanc Murat , Kamen Diane L , Peschken Christine A , Jacobsen Søren , Askanase Anca , Sanchez-Guerrero Jorge , Bruce Ian N , Costedoat-Chalumeau Nathalie , Vinet Evelyne
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) in reproductive-age women with SLE with and without possible contraindications and to determine factors associated with their use in the presence of possible contraindications.

Methods

This observational cohort study included premenopausal women ages 18–45 years enrolled in the SLICC Registry ⩽15 months after SLE onset, with annual assessments spanning 2000–2017. World Health Organization Category 3 or 4 contraindications to CHCs (e.g. hypertension, aPL) were assessed at each study visit. High disease activity (SLEDAI score >12 or use of >0.5 mg/kg/day of prednisone) was considered a relative contraindication.

Results

A total of 927 SLE women contributed 6315 visits, of which 3811 (60%) occurred in the presence of one or more possible contraindication to CHCs. Women used CHCs during 512 (8%) visits, of which 281 (55%) took place in the setting of one or more possible contraindication. The most frequently observed contraindications were aPL (52%), hypertension (34%) and migraine with aura (22%). Women with one or more contraindication were slightly less likely to be taking CHCs [7% of visits (95% CI 7, 8)] than women with no contraindications [9% (95% CI 8, 10)].

Conclusion

CHC use was low compared with general population estimates (>35%) and more than half of CHC users had at least one possible contraindication. Many yet unmeasured factors, including patient preferences, may have contributed to these observations. Further work should also aim to clarify outcomes associated with this exposure.
Mosaicism, aging and cancer
Authors: Machiela Mitchell J.
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

Genetic mosaicism is the presence of a somatic mutation in a subset of cells that differs from the inherited germline genome. Detectable genetic mosaicism is attractive as a potential early biomarker for cancer risk because of its established relationship with aging, introduction of potentially deleterious mutations, and clonal selection and expansion of mutated cells. The aim of this review is to survey shared risk factors associated with genetic mosaicism, aging and cancer risk.

Recent findings

Studies have associated aging, cigarette smoking and several genetic susceptibility loci with increased risk of acquiring genetic mosaicism. Genetic mosaicism has also been associated with numerous outcomes including cancer risk and cancer mortality; however, the level of evidence supporting these associations varies considerably.

Ample evidence exists for shared risk factors for genetic mosaicism and cancer risk as well as abundant support linking genetic mosaicism in leukocytes to hematologic malignancies. The relationship between genetic mosaicism in circulating leukocytes and solid malignancies remains an active area of research.
Chordoma: update on disease, epidemiology, biology and medical therapies
Authors: Frezza Anna Maria , Botta Laura , Trama Annalisa , Dei Tos Angelo P. , Stacchiotti Silvia
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

Chordoma is an exceedingly rare subtype of bone sarcoma. This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight into chordoma epidemiology, and an update on the recent advances in disease, biology and medical therapies.

Recent findings

The incidence of chordoma is approximately 0.08/100 000 and the 5-year overall age-adjusted relative survival is 72% in the United States and 61% in Europe. Over the last years, significant steps forwards have been done in the comprehension of chordoma complexity, with insights gained into the biology and morphology of this disease. New entities have been described and potentially druggable molecular targets identified. This is becoming all the more relevant today, as new potentially active agents are under development.

Chordoma is a complex disease because of its rarity, biological heterogeneity and peculiar clinical behaviour. Despite the progress done, the outcome in this disease remains unsatisfactory and the identification of active systemic treatments remains an urgent, unmet medical need.
Through the Microbial Looking Glass: Premature Labor, Preeclampsia, and Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Dunn Alexis B. , Hanson Lisa , VandeVusse Leona , Leslie Sharon
Published: January 2019

The influence of microbial factors on adverse perinatal outcomes has become the focal point of recent investigations, with particular interest in the role of the microbiome and probiotic interventions. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify and critique the most recent evidence about these factors as they relate to pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia (PEC), preterm birth (PTB), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane) were searched for articles published in English in the last 10 years with the concepts of the microbiome, probiotics, and PEC, PTB, or GDM. Forty-nine articles were eligible for full-text review. Five articles were excluded, leaving 44 articles that met all the eligibility criteria. The relationships between the microbiome and the risk for PEC, PTB, and GDM are not fully elucidated, although probiotic interventions seem beneficial in decreasing PEC and GDM risk. Probiotic interventions targeting bacterial vaginosis and elimination of infection in women at risk for PTB appear to be beneficial. More research is needed to understand the contributions of the microbiome to adverse perinatal outcomes. Probiotic interventions appear to be effective in reducing risk for select outcomes.
Efficacy of Vein Visualization Devices for Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Placement in Preterm Infants
Authors: Çağlar Seda , Büyükyılmaz Funda , Bakoğlu İlkay , İnal Sevil , Salihoğlu Özgül
Published: January 2019

The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the efficacy of vein visualization devices and the routine method for insertion of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) in preterm infants. The study was conducted between June 2016 and April 2017 in the neonatal intensive care unit of Bakırköy Dr Sadi Konuk Education and Research Hospital. Participants (N = 90) were randomly assigned to the infrared group (n = 30), the transilluminator group (n = 30), or the control group (n = 30). Time to successful cannulation was significantly lower for the infrared group (8.70 ± 2.56 seconds) than for the transilluminator group (45.27 ± 30.83 seconds) and the control group (17.30 ± 8.40 seconds) (P ≤ .001). Success of the first attempt was significantly higher in the infrared and transilluminator groups than in the control group (P ≤ .05). Dwell time of the PIVC in place was significantly higher in the infrared group than in the transilluminator and control groups (P ≤ .05). Neonatal Infant Pain Scale scores were significantly higher in the transilluminator group (0.60 ± 0.855) than in the infrared (0.33 ± 0.182) and control groups (0.33 ± 0.182) while seeking an appropriate vein (P ≤ .001). The use of an infrared device provides efficacy in time to successful cannulation, success of the first attempt, length of the time the catheter is in place, and technique-related pain.
Comparison of treatment methods for pediatric Monteggia fracture
Authors: He Jin Peng , Hao Yun , Shao Jing Fan
Published: January 2019

Various methods are applied in the treatment of fresh and neglected Monteggia fractures. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of various treatment methods, and assess the complexity associated with missed radial head dislocation.

All fracture patients were reviewed between Jan 2012 and Dec 2016. A detailed comparison was made of the treatment methods between fresh Monteggia fractures and neglected Monteggia fractures with missed diagnosis of dislocation.

A preliminary analysis of clinical information from 1081 patients in our center was investigated, and 42 were included in the final analysis. The fresh group included 25 patients with an average Mayo Elbow Performance Score of 96.3 ± 2.7 and resulted in the following scores after treatment: 21 excellent, 3 good, and 1 fair. In the fresh group, 76% of patients received closed reduction. Treatment with a cast, elastic stable intramedullary nail, and the Kirschner wire stabilization with tension band wiring make up 80% of the choices for fixation treatment. No patients experienced associated vascular injuries, recurrent dislocation, or elbow dysfunction. The neglected group involved 17 patients with Mayo Elbow Performance Score of 92.1 ± 9.3 and resulted in the following scores after treatment: 10 excellent, 4 good, and 3 fair. The locking compression plate (LCP) was the most common choice for postoperative immobilization in the neglected group (88.2%). Three patients in the neglected group experienced recurrent dislocation.

This retrospective analysis indicates that the treatment of neglected Monteggia fractures is more complex than that of fresh Monteggia fractures, and usually results in a worse recovery rate with a higher rate of recurrent dislocation and elbow dysfunction.
Maximum standardized uptake value of foot SPECT/CT using Tc-99m HDP in patients with accessory navicular bone as a predictor of surgical treatment
Authors: Bae Sungwoo , Kang Yusuhn , Song Yoo Sung , Lee Won Woo
Published: January 2019

Quantitative bone SPECT/CT (single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography) using Tc-99m hydroxymethylene diphosphonate is emerging as a useful imaging modality for skeletal diseases. Accessory navicular bone (ANB) has been evaluated by bone scintigraphy only qualitatively and semiquantitatively. However, a truly objective quantitative assessment of ANB is lacking. Here, we measured the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of the ANB and investigated its usefulness as an imaging biomarker for ANB.

Consecutive quantitative bone SPECT/CT studies that had been performed on the foot were retrospectively analyzed. One hundred five patients (male:female = 44:61; median age = 32.0 [range, 11–81] years old; 31 negative controls without ANB and 74 patients with ANB [7 unilateral and 67 bilateral]) and their 210 feet were investigated. The ANBs were classified into types I, II, III (Geist classification), and 0 (contralateral navicular of unilateral ANB). Type II ANBs were subclassified into II-1 (with bony abnormality) or II-0 (without bony abnormality). The treatment modality was observation, conservative treatment, or surgical removal. The associations between the SUVmax and clinical findings, including surgery, were investigated.

Patients with type II-1 ANB had the highest SUVmax among all ANB types (P < .001). The SUVmax of symptomatic ANB was greater than that for asymptomatic ANB (P < .001), and the SUVmax for the surgically resected ANB group was also significantly higher than that for the observation only or conservative treatment group (P < .001). Subtype II-1 had a significantly higher SUVmax compared with subtype II-0 (P < .001). Logistic regression analyses in type II ANB showed that young age (P = .020) and SUVmax (P = .031) were significant predictors for surgery. Receiver operating characteristic curve and survival analyses revealed an optimal SUVmax cutoff of 5.27 g/mL for predicting final surgical treatment.

SUVmax derived from quantitative bone SPECT/CT was strongly associated with symptom, surgical treatment, and a known high-risk type of ANB. Risk stratification for final surgical treatment of ANB can be achieved using the SUVmax from quantitative bone SPECT/CT.
Acupuncture and related techniques for type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Meilu , Chen Jianrong , Ren Qing , Zhu Weifeng , Yan Dongmei , Nie Heyun , Chen Xiaofan , Zhou Xu
Published: January 2019

Background:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global health problem. As a complementary treatment, acupuncture and related techniques are widely used to treat metabolic and endocrine diseases, but their efficacy and safety for T2DM are yet to be established. This systematic review will qualitatively and quantitatively summarize the current randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and related techniques in patients with T2DM.

Methods:

Comprehensive literature searches will be performed on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and a trial registry “ClinicalTrials.gov” from inception to December 3, 2018. We will include RCTs for patients with T2DM that compared acupuncture with placebo, antidiabetic drugs, lifestyle interventions, or the combination. Primary outcomes are fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c. Secondary outcomes include 2-hour blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, incidence of diabetic complications, and acupuncture-related adverse events. The risk of bias of the RCTs included in the review will be examined using a revised Cochrane handbook tool. Heterogeneity will be detected using Cochran Q test and I
2 statistics. With the use of random effects model, we will perform meta-analyses to pool results of RCTs. The effect measures will be weighted or standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the continuous outcomes and risk ratio with 95% CIs for the dichotomous outcomes. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression with predefined effect modifiers will be performed to explore the sources of heterogeneity. Where appropriate, we will assess the possibility of reporting bias based on funnel plots and quantitative detection. We will appraise the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system for each outcome.

Results:

This study will provide accurate results and balanced inferences on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and related techniques on T2DM.

Conclusion:

This well-designed systematic review will establish high-quality evidence of the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and related techniques for T2DM to facilitate the clinical practice and guideline development.

PROSPERO registration number:

CRD42018115639.
A Phase I/IIa Trial of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Following Portoenterostomy in Biliary Atresia
Authors: Mack Cara L. , Spino Cathie , Alonso Estella M. , Bezerra Jorge A. , Moore Jeffrey , Goodhue Catherine , Ng Vicky L. , Karpen Saul J. , Venkat Veena , Loomes Kathleen M. , Wang Kasper , Sherker Averell H. , Magee John C. , Sokol Ronald J. ,   The ChiLDReN Network
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive neonatal fibroinflammatory cholangiopathy. We hypothesized that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) would be safe, feasible, acceptable, and efficacious for the treatment of BA. The primary objective of this study was to establish the feasibility, acceptability, and safety profile of IVIg administration after hepatoportoenterostomy (HPE) in BA. The secondary objective was to determine the treatment efficacy of IVIg based on good bile drainage and survival with the native liver.

Methods:

A multicenter, prospective, open‐labeled, phase I/IIA trial of IVIg was conducted, with 1 g/kg/dose of IVIg infused at 3–5, 30, and 60 days post‐HPE, and subjects followed for 360 days post‐HPE. Twenty‐nine participants completed the study.

Results:

Administration of IVIg infusions was feasible and acceptable in 79%. None of the serious adverse events (SAEs) were directly related to IVIg infusions; however, 90% of participants had an SAE. Compared with a historical placebo‐arm group, there was no significant increase in the proportion of IVIg participants with a serum total bilirubin <1.5 mg/dL at 90, 180, or 360 days post‐HPE. Survival with the native liver in the IVIg participants showed no significant benefit over the historical placebo arm, with a difference at 360 days of −11.9% (IVIg: 58.6%, placebo: 70.5%; 90% UCB: 2.1%; P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Although IVIg infusions in infants with BA post‐HPE were feasible, acceptable and safe, there was no trend to lower bilirubin levels or improved 360‐day survival with the native liver.

Clinical Trial:

Safety Study of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Post‐Portoenterostomy in Biliary Atresia; #NCT01854827.
Biliary Tract Disease in Girls and Young Women With Rett Syndrome
Authors: Motil Kathleen J. , Lane Jane B. , Barrish Judy O. , Annese Fran , Geerts Suzanne , McNair Lauren , Skinner Steven A. , Neul Jeffrey L. , Glaze Daniel G. , Percy Alan K.
Published: January 2019

Objective:

We reviewed medical records and conducted a nationwide survey to characterize the clinical features and determine the prevalence of biliary tract disease in girls and women with Rett syndrome (RTT).

Methods:

Sixty‐two individuals with RTT and biliary tract disease were identified from the membership of Rett Syndrome Organization and patient files of the principal investigator. Medical records of 46 individuals were reviewed for presenting features, diagnostic tests, and treatment outcomes of biliary tract disease. We designed a questionnaire that probed the frequency of risk factors and treatment outcomes of biliary tract disease in RTT. The questionnaire was completed by 271 parents whose daughters met the clinical criteria for RTT and/or had MECP2 mutations and participated in the Natural History of Rett Syndrome Study.

Results:

Presenting symptoms identified by record review included abdominal pain (94%), irritability (88%), weight loss (64%), and vomiting (52%). Biliary dyskinesia, cholecystitis, and cholelithiasis were identified in 90%, 77%, and 70%, respectively, by cholescintigraphy, surgical pathology, and abdominal ultrasound. The prevalence of biliary tract disease was 4.4% (n = 12) in the RTT cohort. Risk factors included older age (P < 0.001) and a positive family history (P < 0.01). Diagnoses included cholecystitis (n = 5), biliary dyskinesia (n = 6), and cholelithiasis (n = 7). Ten individuals underwent surgery; 7 had resolution of symptoms after surgical intervention.

Conclusions:

Biliary tract disease is not unique to RTT, but may be under‐recognized because of the cognitive impairment of affected individuals. Early diagnostic evaluation and intervention may improve the health and quality of life of individuals affected with RTT and biliary tract disease.
Nurse Practitioners in Orthopaedic Surgical Settings
Authors: Spence Brittany G. , Ricci Joanne , McCuaig Fairleth
Published: January 2019

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this article was to conduct an extensive literature review of nurse practitioners (NPs) in orthopaedic surgical settings to delineate whether a need exists for NPs in these settings.

BACKGROUND:

Due to physician shortages and changes in healthcare, patients are experiencing difficulty accessing orthopaedic surgeons. To meet this need, NPs are becoming an essential part of the multidisciplinary orthopaedic team in Level 1 trauma hospitals.

RESULTS:

Nurse practitioners are qualified and competent to work in a variety of orthopaedic settings including preoperative clinics, primary care orthopaedic clinics, and pre-/postoperative care within the hospital. The benefits of NPs in orthopaedic surgical settings includes increased access to care, improved team communication, decreased length of stay, improved quality of care, and improved patient satisfaction. Moreover, NPs meet patient needs while surgeons are operating, and have a positive impact on resident surgeon education.

CONCLUSION:

A need exists for NPs in orthopaedic surgical settings to both improve access to healthcare for patients and reduce the burden on orthopaedic surgeons.