bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of a telemedicine intervention on home non‐invasive ventilation in a rural population with advanced COPD
Authors: Leonard Rachel , Forte Michael , Mehta Devanshi , Mujahid Hassan , Stansbury Robert
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Rural regions have unique challenges with the implementation of new therapies upon discharge from the hospital due to multiple barriers.

Objectives

We investigated the effect of home non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) plus the implementation of a call center following hospitalization for acute exacerbations of COPD (chronic obstructive lung disease) on NIV usage and readmissions.

Methods

In this prospective pilot study, consecutive patients were screened at our institution for diagnosis of hypercarbic respiratory failure or COPD exacerbation from 2018 to 2019. Patients with more than two admissions in the last year were reviewed for eligibility. Of the 82 patients screened, 22 were eligible. There were 10 participants randomized to the intervention (NIV and call center) arm and 10 to NIV alone.

Results

A total of 20 patients were randomized (mean age of 64, 45% males, BMI of 32). At three months, average usage was 32.1 days out of 90, 35%. When comparing the call center group to the standard group, there was a statistically significant difference in total days of device usage 48.7 compared to 15.5 (significant U‐value of 16, critical value of U at p<.05 of 27) and cumulative use in hours 284 versus 87.7 (significant U‐value of 20). Participants in the call center group were readmitted on average 4.2 times compared to 2.4 in the control group which was not statistically different (non‐significant U‐value of 42). In the follow‐up period, 9/20 (45%) of the participants died.

Conclusion

This pilot study highlights the challenges in implementing care for advanced COPD in a rural population. Our data suggest that telemedicine may favorably address therapy adherence.
A Simulation for Managing Retail Inventory Flow Using RFID and Bar Code Technology
Authors: Atkins Ryan , Sener Abdurrezzak , Russo John
Published: March 2021

The increasingly complex retail environment faces many inventory management challenges. Automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies have been applied by retailers to address these challenges, with mixed levels of success. This article presents a classroom simulation of a retail environment in which students utilize a bar code scanner and a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to manage inventory for the simulated retailer. From the simulation, students gain hands‐on experience with these technologies, learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the technologies, and discuss additional cutting‐edge AIDC technology.
Aggressiveness and screening for host responses in yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) clones to a wilt disease caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata
Authors: Brito Nícolas Manarim de , Duarte Henrique da Silva Silveira , Auer Celso Garcia , Wendling Ivar , Alfenas Rafael Ferreira , Dos Santos Álvaro Figueredo
Published: March 2021

Ceratocystis wilt of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) caused by the fungus Ceratocystis fimbriata was observed in 2018 in commercial plantations located in São Mateus do Sul, PR and Arvorezinha, RS, Brazil, where mortality of the plants was up to 5%. Due to the need of control measures for this disease and to the lack of knowledge on the impact of this pathogen this new host, this study aimed to evaluate the aggressiveness of C. fimbriata isolates collected from yerba mate plantations and screen for host responses in yerba mate clones to Ceratocystis wilt. Two experiments were conducted in a completely randomized design, with 11 treatments (isolates) to assess aggressiveness of the isolates. Two experiments were conducted to assess resistance of yerba mate to C. fimbriata in a completely randomized design in a 6 × 2 factorial scheme (6 clones × 2 isolates) in two different environmental conditions (plant growth chamber and greenhouse). The isolates of C. fimbriata showed different levels of aggressiveness to yerba mate, and all evaluated clones were susceptible to Ceratocystis wilt. The plant growth chamber condition led to a faster death of the plants compared with greenhouse. This information will be useful to understand the pathosystem and seek strategies for controlling this disease in yerba mate.
A shift from phenol to silica‐based leaf defences during long‐term soil and ecosystem development
Authors: de Tombeur Felix , Laliberté Etienne , Lambers Hans , Faucon Michel‐Pierre , Zemunik Graham , Turner Benjamin L. , Cornelis Jean‐Thomas , Mahy Grégory
Published: March 2021

The resource availability hypothesis predicts that plants adapted to infertile soils have high levels of anti‐herbivore leaf defences. This hypothesis has been mostly explored for secondary metabolites such as phenolics, whereas it remains underexplored for silica‐based defences. We determined leaf concentrations of total phenols and silicon (Si) in plants growing along the 2‐million‐year Jurien Bay chronosequence, exhibiting an extreme gradient of soil fertility. We found that nitrogen (N) limitation on young soils led to a greater expression of phenol‐based defences, whereas old, phosphorus (P)‐impoverished soils favoured silica‐based defences. Both defence types were negatively correlated at the community and individual species level. Our results suggest a trade‐off among these two leaf defence strategies based on the strength and type of nutrient limitation, thereby opening up new perspectives for the resource availability hypothesis and plant defence research. This study also highlights the importance of silica‐based defences under low P supply.
Heterotopic polydontia as a cause for a cystic lesion in the paranasal sinus of a Thoroughbred filly
Authors: Gardner A. , Lorbach J. , Rice H.
Published: March 2021

A 1‐year‐old Thoroughbred filly with left bony facial distortion was diagnosed with a multilobar expansile mass within the caudal maxillary and frontal sinuses on computed tomography (CT). Typical findings associated with a sinus cyst, including expression of amber fluid from the mass and a thick lining that could be peeled from the sinus walls, were found on surgical exploration of the sinus under general anaesthesia. Histological examination of firm structures within the fluid‐filled cyst contained all components of embryologically normal dental tissue. The filly recovered well and entered training to race as a 2‐year‐old, as remodelling of the bony distortion and narrowing of the nasal passage was sufficient for airflow. Previous reports of paranasal cystic lesions in horses suggest developmental abnormalities as a causative factor, especially in young horses. Furthermore, heterotopic polydontia is reported as the underlying aetiology in some human paranasal sinus cysts. While polydontia has been reported in the paranasal sinuses and nasal passages of horses, this is the first case report that finds them associated with a cystic lesion within the paranasal sinus.
Temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition is linked with a K‐selected microbial community
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Shan , Semenov Mikhail V. , Yao Fei , Ye Ji , Bu Rencang , Ma Ruiao , Lin Junjie , Kurganova Irina , Wang Xugao , Deng Ye , Kravchenko Irina , Jiang Yong , Kuzyakov Yakov
Published: March 2021

Temperature sensitivity (Q10) of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition is a crucial parameter to predict the fate of soil carbon (C) under global warming. Nonetheless, the response pattern of Q10 to continuous warming and the underlying mechanisms are still under debate, especially considering the complex interactions between Q10, SOM quality, and soil microorganisms. We examined the Q10 of SOM decomposition across a mean annual temperature (MAT) gradient from −1.9 to 5.1°C in temperate mixed forest ecosystems in parallel with SOM quality and bioavailability, microbial taxonomic composition, and functional genes responsible for organic carbon decomposition. Within this temperature gradient of 7.0°C, the Q10 values increased with MAT, but decreased with SOM bioavailability. The Q10 values increased with the prevalence of K‐strategy of soil microbial community, which was characterized by: (i) high ratios of oligotrophic to copiotrophic taxa, (ii) ectomycorrhizal to saprotrophic fungi, (iii) functional genes responsible for degradation of recalcitrant to that of labile C, and (iv) low average 16S rRNA operon copy number. Because the recalcitrant organic matter was mainly utilized by the K‐strategists, these findings independently support the carbon quality‐temperature theory from the perspective of microbial taxonomic composition and functions. A year‐long incubation experiment was performed to determine the response of labile and recalcitrant C pools to warming based on the two‐pool model. The decomposition of recalcitrant SOM was more sensitive to increased temperature in southern warm regions, which might attribute to the dominance of K‐selected microbial communities. It implies that climate warming would mobilize the larger recalcitrant pools in warm regions, exacerbating the positive feedback between increased MAT and CO2 efflux. This is the first attempt to link temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition with microbial eco‐strategies by incorporating the genetic information and disentangling the complex relationship between Q10 and soil microorganisms.
Elevated CO2 shifts soil microbial communities from K‐ to r‐strategists
Authors: Sun Yuan , Wang Cuiting , Yang Jinyan , Liao Jiahui , Chen Han Y.H. , Ruan Honghua
Published: March 2021

Aims

Soil microbes are key to myriad processes in terrestrial ecosystems. Elevated CO2 represents a dominant driver of global climate change; however, it remains unclear to what extent elevated CO2 impacts soil microbial communities at ecosystem and global scales. Here, we sought to address the following questions: (a) Do the compositions of microbial communities shift from K‐ to r‐strategists under elevated CO2? (b) What is the extent of the compositional shifts of microbial communities affected by elevated CO2 concentrations, experimental duration, ecosystem types and/or background climates? (c) Are the responses of microbial communities to elevated CO2 associated with changes in soil pH and carbon and nitrogen availabilities?

Location

Global.

Time period

1998–2020.

Major taxa studied

Soil microbes.

Methods

We performed a global meta‐analysis of 965 observations from 122 studies, which tested the effects of elevated CO2 on microbial communities. The data covered broad variations in ecosystems, climate, CO2 concentrations, experimental duration, and soil factors.

Results

We revealed that elevated CO2 decreased the K‐ to r‐strategist ratios with decreasing fungi : bacteria, Gram+ : Gram– bacteria, and Acidobacteria : Proteobacteria ratios, and increased bacterial biomass, microbial biomass carbon, Gram– bacteria, and Acidobacteria abundance. Moreover, the shifts from K‐ to r‐strategists were more pronounced under higher CO2 concentrations and longer experimental durations. The responses of microbial attributes to elevated CO2 did not differ significantly among croplands, forests and grasslands. Furthermore, the response of microbial biomass to elevated CO2 was negatively correlated with the response of soil pH, while those of bacterial biomass and fungi : bacteria ratios were positively correlated with those of soil organic carbon and soil carbon : nitrogen ratios, respectively.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that elevated CO2 shifts soil microbial communities from K‐ to r‐strategists, and provide supportive evidence for understanding responses of soil microbial processes to elevated CO2.
The intrinsically disordered N‐terminal region of mouse DNA polymerase alpha mediates its interaction with POT1a/b at telomeres
Authors: Mizuno Takeshi , Hirabayashi Kei , Miyazawa Sae , Kobayashi Yurika , Shoji Kenta , Kobayashi Masakazu , Hanaoka Fumio , Imamoto Naoko , Torigoe Hidetaka
Published: March 2021

Mouse telomerase and the DNA polymerase alpha‐primase complex elongate the leading and lagging strands of telomeres, respectively. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of lagging strand synthesis, we investigated the interaction between DNA polymerase alpha and two paralogs of the mouse POT1 telomere‐binding protein (POT1a and POT1b). Yeast two‐hybrid analysis and a glutathione S‐transferase pull‐down assay indicated that the C‐terminal region of POT1a/b binds to the intrinsically disordered N‐terminal region of p180, the catalytic subunit of mouse DNA polymerase alpha. Subcellular distribution analyses showed that although POT1a, POT1b, and TPP1 were localized to the cytoplasm, POT1a‐TPP1 and POT1b‐TPP1 coexpressed with TIN2 localized to the nucleus in a TIN2 dose‐dependent manner. Coimmunoprecipitation and cell cycle synchronization experiments indicated that POT1b‐TPP1‐TIN2 was more strongly associated with p180 than POT1a‐TPP1‐TIN2, and this complex accumulated during the S phase. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and proximity ligation assays showed that POT1a and POT1b interacted with p180 and TIN2 on telomeric chromatin. Based on the present study and a previous study, we propose a model in which POT1a/b‐TPP1‐TIN2 translocates into the nucleus in a TIN2 dose‐dependent manner to target the telomere, where POT1a/b interacts with DNA polymerase alpha for recruitment at the telomere for lagging strand synthesis.
The molecular functions of Biodentine and mineral trioxide aggregate in lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflamed dental pulp cells
Authors: Wang M. C. , Tu H. F. , Chang K. W. , Lin S. C. , Yeh L. Y. , Hung P. S.
Published: March 2021

Aim

To explore the proliferation, adhesion and differentiation response and the underlying mechanisms that occur in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced inflamed dental pulp cells (DPCs) in contact with Biodentine and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA).

Methodology

The DPCs were isolated from three healthy donors and named DPC‐H1 to DPC‐H3. The DPCs were pre‐cultured with 2 or 5 μg mL−1 LPS for 24 h to induce inflammation. The expression of inflammation marker miR‐146a was detected by q‐PCR. The normal and LPS‐induced DPCs were further treated with 0.14 mg mL−1 Biodentine or 0.13 mg mL−1 MTA for 24 h. MTT assay and adhesion assay were used to analyse the changes of cell phenotypes. DSPP, AKT and ERK expressions were detected by Western blotting. The data were analysed by Mann–Whitney test or two‐way anova. Differences were considered statistically significant when P < 0.05.

Results

In LPS‐induced DPCs, Biodentine and MTA treatment neither induced nor aggravated LPS‐induced inflammation, but their presence did increase the expression of the odontogenic differentiation marker DSPP. Under 2 or 5 μg mL−1 LPS‐induced inflammation, Biodentine and MTA promoted the proliferation of DPC cells, and significantly in DPC‐H2 (P < 0.0001 for both reagents). With the treatment of 2 μg mL−1 LPS, the cell adhesion of DPCs on the fibronectin‐coated culture plates was increased significantly by Biodentine (P = 0.0413) and MTA (P < 0.0001). Biodentine and MTA regulated cell adhesion on the fibronectin‐coated culture plates (P < 0.0001 for both reagents) and proliferation (P < 0.0001 for both reagents) via the AKT pathway. However, the AKT pathway was not involved in the expression of DSPP induced by Biodentine and MTA.

Conclusion

Biodentine and MTA enhanced the proliferation, adhesion and differentiation of LPS‐induced DPCs. The proliferation and adhesion process induced by Biodentine and MTA was via the AKT pathway. However, the cellular differentiation process might not use the same pathway, and this needs to be explored in future studies.
Modelling hypercholesterolaemia in rats using high cholesterol diet
Authors: Cunha Luiza Ferracini , Ongaratto Mariana Aubin , Endres Marcelo , Barschak Alethea Gatto
Published: March 2021

Hypercholesterolaemia is a complex condition with multiple causes, including both lifestyle and genetic aspects. It is also a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are responsible for 172 million deaths/year. Although the reasons for hypercholesterolaemia are known, there are many critical questions that remain to be answered so that new therapeutics can be developed. In order to elucidate the pathobiology of this condition, animal models can mimic the pathology of human hypercholesterolaemia. One example of an animal model is induced by the hypercholesterolaemic diet in Wistar rats. The present review first summarizes the current understanding of the metabolic profile involved in hypercholesterolaemia in humans. Next it comments about the lack of consensus as to which hypercholesterolaemia induction protocol should be used. The present work aimed to review experimental studies that induced hypercholesterolaemia in Wistar rats it was not intended to judge the “best” model, since they all achieved the goal of inducing an increase in serum cholesterol.
Skin biopsy as an aid to diagnosis of disorders of the nervous system without cutaneous manifestations
Authors: George Mamatha , Noone Mohan L. , Santhosh Parvathy , Santhoshkumar Rashmi , Sagar B. K. Chandrasekhar , Mahadevan Anita
Published: March 2021

There are several neurological diseases wherein skin biopsy is useful for diagnosis, even in the absence of skin involvement. Skin biopsy is especially relevant in diseases in which the metabolic error is unknown or has no available diagnostic biochemical test. Skin biopsy, being relatively noninvasive, obviates the need for an invasive procedure such as a brain biopsy. These disorders wherein skin biopsies are particularly useful include the progressive myoclonic epilepsies, cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), neuroaxonal dystrophy, and small fiber neuropathies (SFN). We review the role of skin biopsy in such conditions with notes on preferred sites and techniques.
Caustic ingestions over 10 years in Victoria, Australia: high rates in migrants and women
Authors: Rouse Sarah , Buckle Andrew , Hebbard Geoff , Metz Andrew , Sood Siddharth
Published: March 2021

Background

Caustic ingestion is relatively common in developing countries and can result in life‐threatening sequelae. There is limited understanding of the epidemiology and incidence in Australia.

Aims

This statewide 10‐year audit aims to document the rate of caustic injury in a defined Australian pouplation.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted over 10 years (2007–2016), including all admissions to hospitals in Victoria. This includes a population of 5.9 million people and 22 hospitals.

Results

Three hundred and eighty‐four cases of caustic ingestion were admitted to hospital between January 2007 and December 2016. The overall incidence was 7 cases/million/year. This cohort included 217 (56.5%) females, 193 (50.2%) overseas born patients and 196 (51%) people with a history of mental illness. The countries of birth with the highest incidence of caustic ingestion were Ethiopia (11 patients; 227 cases/million/year; relative risk (RR) 31.7; P < 0.0001), Sudan (11 patients; 161 cases/million/year; RR 22.6; P < 0.0001) and India (38 patients; 27 cases/million/year; RR 3.9; P < 0.0001). All had a significantly higher incidence than the Australian‐born population of only 6.5 cases/million/year (RR 0.4; P < 0.0001). Of those born in India, Sudan and Ethiopia, rates of females (72%) were considerably higher than males. The overall mortality rate in this cohort was 2.3%.

Conclusions

Caustic ingestion remains a significant cause of morbidity and health expenditure in Victoria, particularly among vulnerable groups such as recent female migrants from areas in Africa and India. The high frequency of events seen in migrant populations highlights the significant need for awareness of risks in these groups for the development of possible prevention strategies that are required.
Structural drivers controlling sulfur solubility in alkali aluminoborosilicate glasses
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Youngman Randall E. , Kapoor Saurabh , Goel Ashutosh
Published: March 2021

If the direct feed approach to vitrify the Hanford's tank waste is implemented, the low activity waste (LAW) will comprise higher concentrations of alkali/alkaline‐earth sulfates than expected under the previously proposed vitrification scheme. To ensure a minimal impact of higher sulfate concentrations on the downstream operations and overall cost of vitrification, advanced glass formulations with enhanced sulfate loadings (solubility) are needed. While, the current sulfate solubility predictive models have been successful in designing LAW glasses with sulfate loadings <2 wt.%, it will be difficult for them to design glass compositions with enhanced loadings due to our limited understanding of the fundamental science governing these processes. In this pursuit, this article unearths the underlying compositional and structural drivers controlling the sulfate solubility in model LAW glasses. It has been shown that the preferentially removes non‐framework cations from the modifier sites in the silicate network, thus, leading to the polymerization in the glass network via the formation of ring‐structured borosilicate units. Furthermore, though the sulfate solubility slightly decreases with increasing Li+/Na+ in the glasses, the prefers to be charge compensated by Na+, as it is easier for to break Na–O bonds instead of Li–O bonds.
Relationship of structure and mechanical property of silica with enhanced sampling and machine learning
Authors: Deng Yuanpeng , Du Tao , Li Hui
Published: March 2021

As one of the most abundant materials on Earth, silica has been widely studied in various crystal structures and glassy states. However, in terms of molecular structure and the corresponding mechanical properties between those of ordered and disordered states, partially ordered silica states are not well‐explored in the relevant literature owing to a low probability of appearance in experiments and simulations. The lack of this knowledge significantly hinders the understanding of the inherent mechanism of mechanical properties and limits the applications in many engineering fields. In this study, we present an exploration of the complex interdependent relations of the structural properties of silica over a wide range of free energy surfaces and establish a machine learning‐based prediction model via high‐throughput molecular dynamics simulations coupling with an enhanced sampling method. Each scale of structure information of samples with varying crystallinity is analyzed. First, descriptors of silica structures were identified and selected as inputs to a deep neural network (DNN). The results indicate that our DNN‐based approach can provide an accurate prediction of bulk modulus, shear modulus, and tensile strength of silica samples. Furthermore, the generalizability of the machine learning model is verified on the prediction tasks for much larger silica systems, as well as silica quenched at varying cooling rates. Overall, the enhanced sampling method can reliably accelerate the exploration of free energy surfaces and collection of training samples, and machine learning methods are effective in generating accurate and reliable predictions of mechanical properties of materials over the free energy surface.
Nanoparticle synthesis of transition‐metal borides by pulsed discharge of compacted powder
Authors: Nguyen D. Hieu , Ngo M. Chu , Tokoi Yoshinori , Do Thi‐Mai‐Dung , Nakayama Tadachika , Suematsu Hisayuki , Niihara Koichi
Published: March 2021

In this study, boride nanoparticles were synthesized via a low‐cost and simple pulsed discharge of compacted crystalline and amorphous B micron‐sized powders for the first time. Borides of Ti, Mo, W, and Zr were chosen for synthesis experiments. The as‐synthesized powders were spherically shaped and smaller than 100 nm. X‐ray diffraction patterns indicated the presence of several minor phases in each boride powder in addition to a single main‐phase boride. Specifically, the main phases were TiB2, MoB2, WB4, and ZrB2 for borides of Ti, Mo, W, and Zr, respectively. Energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) indicated the presence of B and metal in almost all particles of every sample. The observed particles usually exhibited a two‐part structure: a boride phase and B. Small amounts of C, Fe, Cr, and Ni were detected by EDS; however, the contents of Fe, Cr, and Ni were substantially reduced after improvements to the experimental setup.
Effect of rs67085638 in long non‐coding RNA (CCAT1) on colon cancer chemoresistance to paclitaxel through modulating the microRNA‐24‐3p and FSCN1
Authors: Xiao Zhong‐Sheng , Zhao Lei , Zhang Xiao‐Ning , Li Han‐Xian , Yin Zhi‐Hui
Published: March 2021

It has been reported that rs67085638 in long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNA)‐CCAT1 was associated with the risk of tumorigenesis. Also, CCAT1 could affect chemoresistance of cancer cells to paclitaxel (PTX) via regulating miR‐24‐3p and FSCN1 expression. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of rs67085638 on the expression of CCAT1/miR‐24‐3p/FSCN1 and the response of colon cancer to the treatment of PTX. 48 colon cancer patients were recruited and grouped by their genotypes of rs67085638 polymorphism as a CC group (N = 28) and a CT group (N = 20). PCR analysis, IHC assay and Western blot, TUNEL assay and flow cytometry were conducted. LncRNA‐CCAT1 and FSCN1 mRNA/protein were overexpressed, whereas miR‐24‐3p was down‐regulated in the CT‐genotyped patients and cells compared with those in the CC‐genotyped patients and cells. The survival of colon cancer cells was decreased, whereas the apoptosis of colon cancer cells was increased by PTX treatment in a dose‐dependent manner. MiR‐24‐3p was validated to target lncRNA‐CCAT1 and FSCN1 mRNA, and the overexpression of CCAT1 could reduce the expression of miR‐24‐3p although elevating the expression of FSCN1. Knockdown of lncRNA‐CCAT1 partly reversed the suppressed growth of CT‐genotyped tumours. And the knockdown of lncRNA‐CCAT1 partly reversed the dysregulation of lncRNA‐CCAT1 and FSCN1 mRNA/protein in rs67085638‐CT + NC shRNA mice. The findings of this study demonstrated that the presence of the minor allele of rs67085638 increased the expression of CCAT1 and accordingly enhanced the resistance to PTX. Down‐regulation of CCAT1 significantly re‐stored the sensitivity to PTX of colon cancer cells.
Exercise‐induced peptide EIP‐22 protect myocardial from ischaemia/reperfusion injury via activating JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Xuejun , Zhang Hao , Feng Mengwen , Ding Jingjing , Zhang Bing , Cheng Zijie , Qian Lingmei
Published: March 2021

Recent studies have revealed that exercise has myocardial protective effects, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. Studies have increasingly found that peptides play a protective role in myocardial ischaemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, little is known about the role of exercise‐induced peptides in myocardial I/R injury. To elucidate the effect of exercise‐induced peptide EIP‐22 in myocardial I/R injury, we first determined the effect of EIP‐22 on hypoxia/reperfusion (H/R)‐ or H2O2‐induced injury via assessing cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. In addition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was assessed by fluorescence microscope. Meanwhile, Western blot and TUNEL methods were used to detect apoptosis level. Then, we conducted mice I/R injury model and verified the effect of EIP‐22 by measuring cardiac function, evaluating heart pathology and detecting serum LDH, CK‐MB and cTnI level. Finally, the main signalling pathway was analysed by RNA‐seq. In vitro, EIP‐22 treatment significantly improved cells viabilities and MMP and attenuated the LDH, ROS and apoptosis level. In vivo, EIP‐22 distinctly improved cardiac function, ameliorated myocardial infarction area and fibrosis and decreased serum LDH, CK‐MB and cTnI level. Mechanistically, JAK/STAT signalling pathway was focussed by RNA‐seq and we confirmed that EIP‐22 up‐regulated the expression of p‐JAK2 and p‐STAT3. Moreover, AG490, a selective inhibitor of JAK2/STAT3, eliminated the protective roles of EIP‐22. The results uncovered that exercise‐induced peptide EIP‐22 protected cardiomyocytes from myocardial I/R injury via activating JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway and might be a new candidate molecule for the treatment of myocardial I/R injury.
Opening the black box of AI‐Medicine
Authors: Poon Aaron I F , Sung Joseph J Y
Published: March 2021

One of the biggest challenges of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is that physicians are reluctant to trust and adopt something that they do not fully understand and regarded as a “black box.” Machine Learning (ML) can assist in reading radiological, endoscopic and histological pictures, suggesting diagnosis and predict disease outcome, and even recommending therapy and surgical decisions. However, clinical adoption of these AI tools has been slow because of a lack of trust. Besides clinician's doubt, patients lacking confidence with AI‐powered technologies also hamper development. While they may accept the reality that human errors can occur, little tolerance of machine error is anticipated. In order to implement AI medicine successfully, interpretability of ML algorithm needs to improve. Opening the black box in AI medicine needs to take a stepwise approach. Small steps of biological explanation and clinical experience in ML algorithm can help to build trust and acceptance. AI software developers will have to clearly demonstrate that when the ML technologies are integrated into the clinical decision‐making process, they can actually help to improve clinical outcome. Enhancing interpretability of ML algorithm is a crucial step in adopting AI in medicine.
Gut microbiota composition associated with hepatic fibrosis in non‐obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Iwaki Michihiro , Kessoku Takaomi , Ozaki Anna , Kasai Yuki , Kobayashi Takashi , Nogami Asako , Honda Yasushi , Ogawa Yuji , Imajo Kento , Yoneda Masato , Maeda Ayako , Tanaka Yoshiki , Nakajima Shunji , Ohno Hiroshi , Usuda Haruki , Kawanaka Miwa , Kawaguchi Takumi , Torimura Takuji , Kage Masayoshi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Takahashi Hirokazu , Eguchi Yuichiro , Aishima Shinichi , Wada Koichiro , Kobayashi Noritoshi , Sumida Yoshio , Saito Satoru , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Gut microbiota composition is associated with the pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the association between gut microbiota composition and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in non‐obese patients remains unclear. We compared clinical parameters and gut microbiota profiles of healthy controls and non‐obese and obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Methods

We examined the clinical parameters and gut microbiota profiles by 16S rRNA sequences and short‐chain fatty acid levels in fecal samples from 51 non‐obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (body mass index <25 kg/m2) and 51 obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) who underwent pathological examination and 87 controls at five hospitals in Japan.

Results

Although no significant differences between the non‐obese and other groups were observed in alpha diversity, a significant difference was found in beta diversity. We observed a significant decrease in serum alanine aminotransferase levels, Eubacterium population, and butyric acid levels in non‐obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease compared with those in obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. A significant negative correlation was found between the stage of hepatic fibrosis and Eubacterium abundance in non‐obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Conclusions

The decrease in the abundance of Eubacterium that produces butyric acid may play an important role in the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in non‐obese individuals. This study was registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network clinical trial registration system (UMIN000020917).
Training therapists in emotionally focused therapy: A longitudinal and cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Koren Réka , Woolley Scott R. , Danis Ildikó , Török Szabolcs
Published: March 2021

Using cross‐sectional and longitudinal data, our study looks at the effectiveness of the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Externship and Core Skills trainings. It is the first study to evaluate EFT Core Skills trainings and the first to evaluate change longitudinally throughout the standardized EFT training program. We used the Hungarian EFT Knowledge and Competency Scale (Hungarian EFT‐KACS) to examine self‐perceived knowledge, competency, and alliance over three 4‐day training blocks (Externship, Core Skills Modules 1&2, Core Skills Modules 3&4). Results indicate that each training block significantly increased self‐perceived knowledge, competency, and alliance. During the Externship, participants’ knowledge increased the most and remained at this level after each training block. Competency showed a more modest but significant increase during the Externship. However, by the end of the Core Skills training, competency showed a significant increase compared to post‐Externship results, demonstrating the unique role of Core Skills training in developing competency in EFT.
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): Serotonergic and dopaminergic mechanisms related to its use and misuse
Authors: Schenk Susan , Highgate Quenten
Published: March 2021

Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an amphetamine analogue that preferentially stimulates the release of serotonin (5HT) and results in relatively small increases in synaptic dopamine (DA). The ratio of drug‐stimulated increases in synaptic DA, relative to 5HT, predicts the abuse liability; drugs with higher DA:5HT ratios are more likely to be abused. Nonetheless, MDMA is a drug that is misused. Clinical and preclinical studies have suggested that repeated MDMA exposure produces neuroadaptive responses in both 5HT and DA neurotransmission that might explain the development and maintenance of MDMA self‐administration in some laboratory animals and the development of a substance use disorder in some humans. In this paper, we describe the research that has demonstrated an inhibitory effect of 5HT on the acquisition of MDMA self‐administration and the critical role of DA in the maintenance of MDMA self‐administration in laboratory animals. We then describe the circuitry and 5HT receptors that are positioned to modulate DA activity and review the limited research on the effects of MDMA exposure on these receptor mechanisms.

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Central actions of insulin during pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Ladyman Sharon R. , Brooks Virginia L.
Published: March 2021

Pregnancy and lactation are highly metabolically demanding states. Maternal glucose is a key fuel source for the growth and development of the fetus, as well as for the production of milk during lactation. Hence, the maternal body undergoes major adaptations in the systems regulating glucose homeostasis to cope with the increased demand for glucose. As part of these changes, insulin levels are elevated during pregnancy and lower in lactation. The increased insulin secretion during pregnancy plays a vital role in the periphery; however, the potential effects of increased insulin action in the brain have not been widely investigated. In this review, we consider the impact of pregnancy on brain access and brain levels of insulin. Moreover, we explore the hypothesis that pregnancy is associated with site‐specific central insulin resistance that is adaptive, allowing for the increases in peripheral insulin secretion without the consequences of increased central and peripheral insulin functions, such as to stimulate glucose uptake into maternal tissues or to inhibit food intake. Conversely, the loss of central insulin actions may impair other functions, such as insulin control of the autonomic nervous system. The potential role of low insulin in facilitating adaptive responses to lactation, such as hyperphagia and suppression of reproductive function, are also discussed. We end the review with a list of key research questions requiring resolution.
Genetic basis of susceptibility to low‐dose paraquat and variation between the sexes in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lovejoy Pamela C. , Foley Kate E. , Conti Melissa M. , Meadows Samantha M. , Bishop Christopher , Fiumera Anthony C.
Published: March 2021

Toxicant resistance is a complex trait, affected both by genetics and the environment. Like most complex traits, it can exhibit sexual dimorphism, yet sex is often overlooked as a factor in studies of toxicant resistance. Paraquat, one such toxicant, is a commonly used herbicide and is known to produce mitochondrial oxidative stress, decrease dopaminergic neurons and dopamine (DA) levels, and decrease motor ability. While the main effects of paraquat are well‐characterized, less is known about the naturally occurring variation in paraquat susceptibility. The purpose of this study was to map the genes contributing to low‐dose paraquat susceptibility in Drosophila melanogaster, and to determine if susceptibility differs between the sexes. One hundred of the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP) lines were scored for susceptibility via climbing ability and used in a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). Variation in seventeen genes in females and thirty‐five genes in males associated with paraquat susceptibility. Only two candidate genes overlapped between the sexes despite a significant positive correlation between male and female susceptibilities. Many associated polymorphisms had significant interactions with sex, with most having conditionally neutral effects. Conditional neutrality between the sexes probably stems from sex‐biased expression which may result from partial resolution of sexual conflict. Candidate genes were verified with RNAi knockdowns, gene expression analyses, and DA quantification. Several of these genes are novel associations with paraquat susceptibility. This research highlights the importance of assessing both sexes when studying toxicant susceptibility.
Direct Anterior Approach in Lateral Decubitus Position Versus Supine Position for Unilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Comparative Study
Authors: Zhao Wenbo , Li Shanwu , Yin Yi , Wang Zhiqiang , Sun Guanjun , Peng Xu , Lan Jiaping , Ye Yongjie
Published: March 2021

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy of the direct anterior approach in lateral decubitus position (L‐DAA) and supine position (S‐DAA) for unilateral total hip arthroplasty.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 89 patients who underwent primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty in our department between August 2016 and December 2017. There were 46 patients who underwent L‐DAA and 43 patients who underwent S‐DAA. The body mass index (BMI), operation time, blood loss, preoperative Hb, first day and third day postoperative Hb, incision length, hospital stay, preoperative and postoperative Harris score, preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, radiological evaluation, intraoperative and postoperative complication, postoperative absolute length difference of lower extremity were recorded and analyzed. P < 0.05 was set as the significant difference.

Results

All patients were followed up for 8–23 months, with an average of 15.6 months. No significant differences were found in preoperative and postoperative Harris scores, preoperative Hb, incision lengths, radiological evaluations, preoperative and postoperative VAS scores, and hospital stay (P > 0.05). However, significant differences were detected in BMI, blood loss, first day and third day postoperative Hb, and operation time (P < 0.05). There were no postoperative complications in the L‐DAA and S‐DAA groups. During the operation, two cases of proximal femoral fracture occurred in the L‐DAA group, four in the S‐DAA group, and the difference was statistically significant. There were significant differences found in the postoperative absolute length difference of lower extremity between the two groups.

Conclusion

Compared with the S‐DAA approach, the L‐DAA approach had the advantages of shorter operation time and less blood loss. Compared with S‐DAA, it was easier to expose the proximal femur, and lower BMI was required in L‐DAA. However, it was more difficult to compare the length of both lower extremities in the L‐DAA approach than in the S‐DAA approach.
Tinea corporis incognito due to Microsporum Gypseum: Report of eight cases in children
Authors: Starace Michela , Carpanese Miriam Anna , Alessandrini Aurora , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Patrizi Annalisa , Neri Iria
Published: March 2021

Microsporum gypseum is a geophilic saprophyte for which soil is the natural habitat. Tinea corporis caused by Microsporum gypseum is rare and usually occurs after direct contact with the soil or healthy carrier animals. We present a case series of eight children with tinea corporis caused by M gypseum, with unusual clinic presentations mimicking dermatitis.
High expression of Ras‐specific guanine nucleotide‐releasing factor 2 (RasGRF2) in lung adenocarcinoma is associated with tumor invasion and poor prognosis
Authors: Nakagawa Tomoki , Kim YunJung , Kano Junko , Murata Yoshihiko , Kosibaty Zeinab , Noguchi Masayuki , Sakamoto Noriaki
Published: March 2021

The expression of Ras‐specific guanine nucleotide‐releasing factor 2 (RasGRF2) in lung adenocarcinomas was examined using immunohistochemistry in relation to clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis. In comparison to low expression, high expression of RasGRF2 was more closely associated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, expression of phosphorylated epithelial cell transforming 2 (pECT2), which – like RasGRF2 – is also a guanine‐nucleotide exchange factor, was also associated with prognosis, and patients with high expression of both RasGRF2 and pECT2 had a much poorer outcome than those who were negative for both.
Time Matters: How Default Resolution Times Impact Final Loss Rates
Authors: Betz Jennifer , Kellner Ralf , Rösch Daniel
Published: March 2021

Using access to a unique bank loss database, we find positive dependencies of default resolution times (DRTs) of defaulted bank loan contracts and final loan loss rates (losses given default, LGDs). Due to this interconnection, LGD predictions made at the time of default and during resolution are subject to censoring. Pure (standard) LGD models are not able to capture effects of censoring. Accordingly, their LGD predictions may be biased and underestimate loss rates of defaulted loans. In this paper, we develop a Bayesian hierarchical modelling framework for DRTs and LGDs. In comparison to previous approaches, we derive final DRT estimates for loans in default which enables consistent LGD predictions conditional on the time in default. Furthermore, adequate unconditional LGD predictions can be derived. The proposed method is applicable to duration processes in general where the final outcomes depend on the duration of the process and are affected by censoring. By this means, we avoid bias of parameter estimates to ensure adequate predictions.
Functional central limit theorems for persistent Betti numbers on cylindrical networks
Authors: Krebs Johannes , Hirsch Christian
Published: March 2021

We study functional central limit theorems for persistent Betti numbers obtained from networks defined on a Poisson point process. The limit is formed in large volumes of cylindrical shape stretching only in one dimension. The results cover a directed sublevel‐filtration for stabilizing networks and the Čech and Vietoris–Rips complex on the random geometric graph. The presented functional central limit theorems open the door to a variety of statistical applications in topological data analysis and we consider goodness‐of‐fit tests in a simulation study.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQA1*05:13 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Genebrier Steve , Lemal Richard , Nivet Carl , Chérel Mathilde , Renac Virginie
Published: March 2021

DQA1*05:13 differs from DQA1*05:05:01:04 by one nucleotide substitution at position 37 in exon 1.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DPA1*01:49 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Bouthemy Charlène , Cargou Marine , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Fort Marylise , Congy‐Jolivet Nicolas
Published: March 2021

HLA‐DPA1*01:49 differs from DPA1*01:03:01:04 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 119 in exon 3.
Efficacy of postoperative antibiotic use after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs: A systematic review
Authors: Budsberg Steven C. , Torres Bryan T. , Sandberg Gabriella S.
Published: March 2021

Objective

A systematic review of published data to determine whether postoperative antibiotic use after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) decreases infection rates.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

A broad bibliographic search was performed in three online databases through March 2020 for publications on postoperative antibiotic use after TPLO in dogs. Search terms included dog, canine, TPLO, tibial plateau leveling osteotomy, infection, antibiotic, and antimicrobial. Articles that met inclusion criteria were evaluated for level of evidence (LoE) by a modified Oxford Level of Evidence (mOLE) and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) classification and evaluation.

Results

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Effect of antibiotic use was the primary question in four studies. Among those, 50% (2/4) were assigned a mOLE of 1b and a GRADE of moderate, while the other 50% (2/4) were assigned a mOLE of 4b or 4c with a GRADE of low. The two studies with the highest LoE did not provide evidence of the benefit of antibiotic usage. Results of only one study provided evidence to support the use of postoperative antibiotics. The remaining nine studies provided evaluation of antibiotic use secondarily and were all assigned a low LoE. Among these, 78% (7/9) provided evidence to support the use of postoperative antibiotics.

Conclusion

We found little evidence to support the use of postoperative antibiotics to reduce the risk of surgical site infections in dogs after TPLO. The answer to this clinical question is complicated by the lack of prospective studies and inconsistent treatment protocols in the evaluated studies.

Clinical significance

The clinical impact of postoperative antibiotic administration on infection rates after TPLO is uncertain.
Parent Cooperative Early Childhood Settings: Empowering Family Strengths and Family Engagement for All Young Children
Authors: Harris Kathleen I
Published: March 2021

Parent cooperative preschools are unique educational enterprises because they involve the participation of parents and children. The purpose of this historical qualitative analysis examines the history of parent cooperative preschools and the contributions of this type of early childhood setting, including parent engagement in the classroom, family strengths (both personal and in the community), and the teacher’s role in the classroom as a facilitator, leader, and parent educator. Reflections from past parent cooperative board members of a parent cooperative are included sharing their personal contributions, joys, collaborations, and challenges of engagement in this type of early childhood program. The reflections from the parent cooperative board members share insight into the role they played in the awareness of early childhood education to society, family engagement, advocacy, and the critical importance of this type of early childhood setting for all young children. Parent cooperative preschools encourages families to engage in reciprocal relationships with teachers by offering learning activities for the home and in the community. They are associated with important values and virtues for families to grow and learn with their child.