bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of phosphatidylserine and omega-3 fatty acid-containing supplement on late life depression
Authors: Komori Teruhisa
Published: February 2020

Late life depression is often associated with a poor response to antidepressants; therefore an alternative strategy for therapy is required. Although several studies have reported that phosphatidylserine (PS) may be effective for late life depression and that omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA have also proven beneficial for many higher mental functions, including depression, no concrete conclusion has been reached. This study was performed to clarify the effect of PS and omega-3 fatty acid-containing supplement for late life depression by not only clinical evaluation but also salivary cortisol levels. Eighteen elderly subjects with major depression were selected for the study. In all, insufficient improvement had been obtained by antidepressant therapy for at least 6 months. The exclusion criteria from prior brain magnetic resonance images (MRI) included the presence of structural MRI findings compatible with stroke or other gross brain lesions or malformations, but not white matter hypersensitivities. They took a supplement containing PS 100 mg, DHA 119 mg and EPA 70 mg three times a day for 12 weeks. The effects of the supplement were assessed using the 17-item Hamilton depression scale (HAMD17) and the basal levels and circadian rhythm of salivary cortisol. The study adopted them as indices because: salivary cortisol levels are high in patients with depression, their circadian rhythm related to salivary cortisol is often irregular, and these symptoms are alleviated as depression improves. The mean HAM-D17 in all subjects taking the supplement was significantly improved after 12 weeks of taking the supplement. These subjects were divided into 10 non-responders and 8 responders. The basal levels and circadian rhythm of salivary cortisol were normalized in the responders while not in non-responders. PS and omega-3 fatty acids, or other elements of the supplement, may be effective for late life depression, associated with the correction of basal levels and circadian rhythm of salivary cortisol.
Olanzapine-induced neutropenia
Authors: Malhotra Kirti , Vu Priscilla , Wang Danielle H. , Lai Hank , Faziola Lawrence R.
Published: February 2020

Olanzapine-induced neutropenia is a rare adverse effect that is currently poorly described in literature. Although neutropenia is a known adverse effect of clozapine, it has been associated with the use of other antipsychotic medications like olanzapine. This case report describes and reviews a case of olanza-pine-induced neutropenia in a schizophrenic patient. Although the mechanism of antipsychotic-induced neutropenia is still debated, this report attempts to discuss current theories as well as supply evidence in literature of this rare but potentially dangerous adverse effect.
Behavioral phenotype and autism spectrum disorders in Cornelia de Lange syndrome
Authors: Parisi Lucia , Filippo Teresa Di , Roccella Michele
Published: February 2020

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a congenital disorder characterized by distinctive facial features, growth retardation, limb abnormalities, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. Cornelia de Lange syndrome is associated with abnormalities on chromosomes 5, 10 and X. Heterozygous point mutations in three genes (NIPBL, SMC3 and SMC1A), are responsible for approximately 50-60% of CdLS cases. CdLS is characterized by autistic features, notably excessive repetitive behaviors and expressive language deficits. The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptomatology is comparatively high in CdLS. However, the profile and developmental trajectories of these ASD characteristics are potentially different to those observed in individuals with idiopathic ASD. A significantly higher prevalence of self-injury are evident in CdLS. Self-injury was associated with repetitive and impulsive behavior. This study describes the behavioral phenotype of four children with Cornelia de Lange syndrome and ASDs and rehabilitative intervention that must be implemented.
The quality of life in girls with Rett syndrome
Authors: Parisi Lucia , Filippo Teresa Di , Roccella Michele
Published: February 2020

Nowadays, quality of life is receiving an increasing attention in all scientific areas. Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurological development, affecting mainly females. The congenital disease affects the central nervous system, and is one of the most common causes of severe intellectual disability. The aim of our study is to evaluate the effect of RTT on the quality of life of people who are affected. Both parents of 18 subjects, all female, diagnosed with RTT, took part in the research. Quality of life was assessed using the Italian version of the Impact of Childhood Illness Scale. This scale consists of 30 questions that investigate the effect of illness on children, parents and families. For each question, the parent was asked to rate two variables: frequency and importance. Another questionnaire was administered to obtain medical history, diagnostic and therapeutic data of the persons with RTT. Our data show that RTT has a considerable impact on both the child's development and the entire family. Parents' answers demonstrated that their child's illness had consequences for the child and how the family coped with it. For this reason, attention should be directed at psychological and social aspects, as well as attitudes, manners, reactions and effects such disturbances can have on the entire family.
The effects of symptoms, diagnostic labels, and education in psychiatry on the stigmatization towards schizophrenia: a questionnaire survey among a lay population in Japan
Authors: Matsunaga Asami , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: February 2020

This questionnaire survey was conducted to study the determinants of stigmatization toward schizophrenia in Japan. A total of 1003 persons living in Kumamoto Prefecture (mean age 25.5; SD=14.1) participated in this study through convenience sampling. They read one of four case vignettes about a person with mental illness and answered questions about their attitudes toward the case. Vignettes varied in terms of descriptions of symptoms (schizophrenia vs. depression) and presentation of the diagnostic label of schizophrenia (yes or no). A path analysis was performed to examine the effects of symptoms, diagnostic label, experience of education in psychiatry, and demographic features on stigmatizing attitudes. Results showed that schizophrenic symptoms, diagnostic label of schizophrenia, and experience of education in psychiatry were significantly associated with stigmatization toward the case. Interaction terms of these variables did not show significant association with stigmatization. These results highlight the importance of optimizing education techniques about mental illness so as to avoid cultivating stigmatizing attitudes toward schizophrenia.
Tennis enhances well-being in university students
Authors: Yazici Ahmet Bulent , Gul Mine , Yazici Esra , Gul Gazanfer Kemal
Published: February 2020

Sports and physical activity are widely recommended, both as guidelines and in clinical practice, because of their broad range of positive effects on health, depression, anxiety, and psychological well-being. While several studies have examined the anti-depressive and anxiolytic effects of physical activity in clinical populations, and fewer studies have focused on the nonclinical populations, the relationship between tennis and well-being has not been clearly investigated. This study was carried out with 76 student volunteers from Kocaeli University (Turkey) who had chosen tennis lessons as their University. The tennis exercise program consisted of 90-minute basic tennis skills lessons for 13 weeks. At the beginning and at the end of the study, the students were given the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scales, and were evaluated by the DeWitt-Dugan Tennis Service Test, the DeWitt-Dugan Speed Test, and the Dyer Backboard Tennis Test. Upon evaluating the students' pre- and post-test scores, we concluded that their BDI and BAI scores had significantly decreased, with the most significant decreases seen in several sub-scores of the SCL-90-R; their tennis skills, meanwhile, increased significantly. This study shows that partaking in tennis exercise once a week decreases depression and anxiety symptoms and enhances well-being in healthy young people.
Social anxiety disorder and its impact in undergraduate students at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hakami Ramzi M. , Mahfouz Mohamed S. , Adawi Abdulrahman M. , Mahha Adeebah J. , Athathi Alaa J. , Daghreeri Hadi H. , Najmi Hatim H. , Areeshi Nuha A.
Published: February 2020

Although social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a common mental disorder, it is often under diagnosed and under treated. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence, severity, disability, and quality of life towards SAD among students of Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a stratified sample of 500 undergraduate students to identify the prevalence of SAD, its correlates, related disability, and its impact on the quality life. All participants completed the Social Phobia Inventory, Leibowitz Social Anxiety Scale, Sheehan Disability Scale, and the WHO Quality of Life – BREF questionnaire. Of 476 students, 25.8% were screened positive for SAD. About 47.2% of the students had mild symptoms, 42.3% had moderate to marked symptoms, and 10.5% had severe to very severe symptoms of SAD. Students who resulted positive for SAD reported significant disabilities in work, social, and family areas, and this has adversely affected their quality of life as compared to those who screened negative for SAD. Students reported several clinical manifestations that affected their functioning and social life. Acting, performing or giving a talk in front of an audience was the most commonly feared situation. Blushing in front of people was the most commonly avoided situation. Since the present study showed a marked prevalence of SAD among students, increased disability, and impaired quality of life, rigorous efforts are needed for early recognition and treatment of SAD.
Anti-stress effects of simplified aroma hand massage
Authors: Komori Teruhisa , Kageyama Mutsumi , Tamura Yuko , Tateishi Yuki , Iwasa Takashi
Published: February 2020

In order to be able to use the aroma hand massage as a skill that can be done by a nurse who does not have a special aromatherapy technique, we examine anti-stress effects of simplified aroma hand massage for healthy subjects. We evaluated the anti-stress action of aroma hand massage and the different components of the procedure in 20 healthy women in their twenties. We used autonomic nervous function measured via electrocardiogram as an index of stress. After conducting a baseline electrocardiogram, we induced stress in the participants by asking them to spend 30 minutes completing Kraepelin's arithmetic test. We then administered various treatments and examined the anti-stress effects. Kraepelin's test significantly increased sympathetic nervous function and significantly reduced parasympathetic nervous function. Compared with massage without essential oil or aroma inhalation, aroma hand massage significantly increased parasympathetic nervous function and significantly decreased sympathetic nervous function. The effect of the aroma hand massage persisted when the procedure was simplified. The anti-stress action of the aroma hand massage indicates that it might have beneficial application as a nursing technique. There are several limitations in this study; ambiguities of low component/high component ratio of heart rate variability and bias by small subjects groups of the same women.
How often do women use non-drug treatment methods for psychiatric symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum periods?
Authors: Yuvaci Hilal Uslu , Yazici Esra , Yazici Ahmet Bulent , Cevrioglu Serhan
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of complementary and alternative medical applications (CAM) and non-drug treatments of women during their pregnancies, postpartum periods and the changes between these periods. The Screening Form for Non-pharmacologic Methods Used during Pregnancy and Postpartum period was administered to the participants. Passiflora (Incarnata), Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort), omega 3 supplements, bright light treatment, transmagnetic stimulation, S-adenosyl-methionine, herbal teas, biofeedback/neurofeedback, amulets, exercise, acupuncture and psychotherapy were investigated. The ratio of the use of one of the CAM methods for psychiatric complaints during people's lifetime was found to be 33.3% (n=162). Herbal teas were the main practice used during pregnancy (58.8%) and the postpartum. The use of CAM according to the utilization periods of the participants statistically significantly decreased in those who were currently pregnant (Cochran's Q=298.007; P<0.05). The use of participants' non-drug treatments in the periodical follow-up decreased in those who are currently pregnant and increased during the postpartum period.
The cynical subordinate: exploring organizational cynicism, LMX, and loyalty
Authors: Scott Kristyn A. , Zweig David
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Adopting a social exchange framework, this article examines the relationship between organizational cynicism and leader–member exchange (LMX) using two different methodologies.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 utilizes a longitudinal panel design (N = 291) to examine the reciprocal relationships between organizational cynicism and LMX over time. Study 2 (N = 348) positions loyalty as a possible mechanism through which organizational cynicism might impair LMX.

Findings

Study 1 provides evidence for the existence of some reciprocity in the relationships between organizational cynicism and LMX; however, organizational cynicism appears to be a stronger predictor of LMX than the obverse. The results of Study 2 suggest that cynical employees are less loyal to their supervisors, and this cynicism can interfere with the reciprocity process inherent in the creation and maintenance of high-quality social exchanges at work.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the relations between organizational cynicism and LMX in a longitudinal design. Additionally, the inclusion of loyalty and demonstration that organizational cynicism impacts loyalty to supervisors negatively represents a novel direction in organizational cynicism research.
Role of integration in scaling of an e-Government project
Authors: Anand Ambuj , Vaidya Sanjiv D. , Sharahiley Sanawi M.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Scaling is an important concern in the management of information systems projects. E-Government projects are no exception to the challenges of scaling. The problem is more severe because of a large and diverse population of target users and more crucial because of the vulnerability of the target population in case of failure of such initiatives (in projects, such as public distribution system of food). In spite of a significant awareness of its importance among implementers, scaling still remains a challenge. This paper aims to examine this important issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study method has been used to demonstrate the relationship between integration and scaling of e-Government projects. This study uses analytic generalization from field case as a method to theorize a broad framework for the integration of information and communications technology projects. The context of this study is an e-Government project in West Bengal, India. The selection of the case involved theoretical sampling apart from considerations for the possibility of access to the project and its appropriateness with respect to the topic under study.

Findings

Five different levels of integration in e-Government projects, namely, interface, data, electronic communication, application, and knowledge, have been identified. Further, it has been demonstrated that each of these integration mechanisms impacts scaling of e-Government projects. Also, the nature of the impact has been identified.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the impact of integration on the scaling of e-Government projects. It analyzes the phenomenon of integration in terms of five different levels. All the levels of integration impact scaling of e-Government projects in different ways.
Epigenetics in ecology and evolution
Authors: Herrel Anthony , Joly Dominique , Danchin Etienne
Published: February 2020

The discovery of the multidimensional nature of the inherited information carried by the epigenome and the characterization of its intra‐ and intergenerational dynamics have profoundly changed our understanding of the functioning of biological organisms and the origins of phenotypic diversity.

This has raised considerable interest in the study of epigenetics which is emerging as a ‘missing link’ between environmental and phenotypic variation.

Recent discoveries have provided important insights into the mechanisms of phenotypic plasticity, inheritance and adaptation; key concepts at the crossroads of individual‐centred approaches (that mostly study proximate mechanisms); and supra‐individual ones (that mostly study ultimate processes).

In this context, epigenetics emerges as a major source of inquiry for the study of ecological and evolutionary dynamics. This special feature provides an overview of the role of epigenetics in ecology and evolution.
The Limits of Homeownership: Racial Capitalism, Black Wealth, and the Appreciation Gap in Atlanta
Authors: Markley Scott N. , Hafley Taylor J. , Allums Coleman A. , Holloway Steven R. , Chung Hee Cheol
Published: February 2020

In the wake of the 2007–08 housing crash, the Black–white wealth gap reached a staggering 20 to 1. Since then, a growing chorus of influential voices has proposed measures to increase the Black homeownership rate as a means to narrow the gap. Others, however, have argued that the uneven racial geography of home price appreciation necessarily restricts the degree to which Black households, in the aggregate, can build wealth via homeownership. We aim to contribute to these debates by theorizing a racial appreciation gap as a central feature of urban housing markets under racial capitalism, and analyzing how neighborhood racial and income characteristics have structured home price appreciation from before the height of the housing boom (2000–03) to its post‐crisis recovery (2014–16). Focusing on the two counties that encompass Atlanta, Georgia, USA—an area famous for Black prosperity—we find that a neighborhood's racial composition has a more salient impact on home price change than its income. Results indicate that when a place is marked as Black, this may itself inhibit home price appreciation, suggesting that an enduring racial appreciation gap may limit the potential for Black homeownership to substantively narrow the racial wealth gap.
The Gains from Catch‐up for China and the USA: An Empirical Framework
Authors: Dungey Mardi , Osborn Denise R.
Published: February 2020

As China becomes more closely entwined with the USA, positive shocks in the USA translate into positive outcomes for China, but any gain to the USA is less clear. We develop a framework of two interacting open economies in which Chinese gross domestic product per capita moves towards long‐run convergence with the USA. Although the short‐run interactions are constant over time, the resulting model implies that the impulse responses of both countries may be sensitive to the timing of shocks. Empirical results show the changing effects of US shocks, with both countries benefiting from the catch‐up process.
Suitability of elderly adult hospital readmission rates for profiling readmissions in younger adult and pediatric populations
Authors: Bucholz Emily M. , Toomey Sara L. , Butala Neel M. , Chien Alyna T. , Yeh Robert W. , Schuster Mark A.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To determine the correlation between hospital 30‐day risk‐standardized readmission rates (RSRRs) in elderly adults and those in nonelderly adults and children.

Data Sources/Study Setting

US hospitals (n = 1760 hospitals admitting adult patients and 235 hospitals admitting both adult and pediatric patients) in the 2013‐2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis comparing 30‐day RSRRs for elderly adult (≥65 years), middle‐aged adult (40‐64 years), young adult (18‐39 years), and pediatric (1‐17 years) patients.

Principal Findings

Hospital elderly adult RSRRs were strongly correlated with middle‐aged adult RSRRs (Pearson R2 .69 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66‐0.71]), moderately correlated with young adult RSRRs (Pearson R2 .44 [95% CI 0.40‐0.47]), and weakly correlated with pediatric RSRRs (Pearson R2 .28 [95% CI 0.17‐0.38]). Nearly identical findings were observed with measures of interquartile agreement and Kappa statistics. This stepwise relationship between age and strength of correlation was consistent across every hospital characteristic.

Conclusions

Hospital readmission rates in elderly adults, which are currently used for public reporting and hospital comparisons, may reflect broader hospital readmission performance in middle‐aged and young adult populations; however, they are not reflective of hospital performance in pediatric populations.
Gut microbiota in ulcerative colitis: insights on pathogenesis and treatment
Authors: Guo Xiao Yan , Liu Xin Juan , Hao Jian Yu
Published: February 2020

Gut microbiota constitute the largest reservoir of the human microbiome and are an abundant and stable ecosystem—based on its diversity, complexity, redundancy, and host interactions This ecosystem is indispensable for human development and health. The integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier depends on its interactions with gut microbiota. The commensal bacterial community is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC). The dysbiosis of microbes is characterized by reduced biodiversity, abnormal composition of gut microbiota, altered spatial distribution, as well as interactions among microbiota, between different strains of microbiota, and with the host. The defects in microecology, with the related metabolic pathways and molecular mechanisms, play a critical role in the innate immunity of the intestinal mucosa in UC. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been used to treat many diseases related to gut microbiota, with the most promising outcome reported in antibiotic‐associated diarrhea, followed by IBD. This review evaluated the results of various reports of FMT in UC. The efficacy of FMT remains highly controversial, and needs to be regularized by integrated management, standardization of procedures, and individualization of treatment.
Current status of metformin in addition to insulin therapy in adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: An analysis from the Guangdong Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Translational Medicine Study
Authors: Qiu Liling , Ling Ping , Yang Daizhi , Luo Sihui , Zheng Xueying , Liang Hua , Yuan Yong , Liang Ganxiong , Xu Wen , Yao Bin , Yan Jinhua , Weng Jianping
Published: February 2020

Background

Limited data on the efficacy of the additional metformin therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) under real‐life conditions have been available so far.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with a duration of T1DM for at least 1 year were included in this multicenter observational study. Patients with insulin combined with metformin therapy (MET group) were compared with those with insulin therapy only (INS group).

Results

A total of 76 patients in the MET group were compared with 655 patients in the INS group. At baseline, patients with dyslipidemia were more prevalent in the MET group (17.6% vs 9.0%; P = .006), and they also had a higher body mass index (BMI) (21.7 ± 3.2 kg/m2 vs 20.4 ± 2.6 kg/m2; P < .001) than those in the INS group. But glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and daily insulin dose were not significantly different between the two groups. After 1‐year follow‐up, HbA1c decreased in both groups, while the daily insulin dose decreased in the MET group, but did not change in the INS group (−0.02 IU/kg [−0.16, 0.09] vs 0 IU/kg [−0.09, 0.09]; P = .029). The additional metformin therapy led to no change of BMI and weight in the MET group, while the body weight increased from 53.7 ± 8.6 kg to 55.0 ± 7.9 kg in the INS group (P < .001).

Conclusions

Metformin is initiated more in T1DM patients with dyslipidemia or higher BMI in current practice in China. The addition of metformin is effective in maintaining weight and reducing the insulin dosage without improving glycemic control in patients with T1DM.
Spinal ‘flip‐flop’ effect in anorexia nervosa: A case report
Authors: Varotto Alessia , Vitale Valerio , Mansour Mariam , Di Pascoli Lorenza , Iannucci Giuseppe
Published: February 2020

Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric eating disorder related to malnutrition and consequent altered metabolism. A 48‐year‐old female with a history of anorexia in the last 2 years referred to our hospital with spinal pain. She underwent spinal X‐ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showing multiple vertebral collapses in dorsal and lumbar spine with inversion of normal bone marrow and soft tissue signal in T1‐weighted and STIR images. We describe this case of spinal ‘flip‐flop’ phenomenon, underlining how what seems a technical failure is actually a specific imaging pattern related to the clinical context.
Evaluation of a radiographer‐led peripherally inserted central catheter insertion service
Authors: De Boo Diederick W , Marshall Elissa , Erskine Brendan , Koukounaras Jim , Kavnoudias Helen , Thomson Kenneth R
Published: February 2020

Introduction

To evaluate a radiographer‐led peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion service within an interventional radiology suite using ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance.

Methods

Data from 366 consecutive PICC insertions by five trained angiography‐specialized radiographers were prospectively collected over a 12‐month period. For each PICC insertion, patient demographics, including past medical history of cystic fibrosis (CF), number of punctures, vein used, final tip position, contrast administration and screening time were recorded. Institutional review board approval was obtained.

Results

The overall PICC insertion success rate was 100%. Fifty‐five (15%) had a known medical history of CF. Three hundred and thirty‐one (90%) PICC insertions required a single puncture and 32 (9%) required two punctures. The remaining three insertions required three punctures. The basilic vein was most commonly used (69%) followed by the brachial vein (29%), and the cephalic vein was used only in 2%. Administration of contrast medium was necessary during 27 (7%) PICC insertions. Mean screening time was 10.7 s.

Conclusion

Our specifically trained, radiographer‐led PICC insertion service proved to be successful. Both straightforward and complex insertions, for example in CF patients could be adequately and efficiently performed.
Tract sealing with normal saline after percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsies
Authors: Babu Suresh B , Srinivasan Sivasubramanian , Chung Raymond , Chawla Ashish , Tan Hsien Khai , Lohan Rahul
Published: February 2020

Introduction

In the present study, we aimed to assess whether normal saline injection for sealing the biopsy track is useful in reducing the incidence of pneumothorax after computed tomography (CT)‐guided percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsy (PTLB).

Methods

We retrospectively compared the incidence of pneumothorax in 100 consecutive biopsies (n = 100, group A) that had injection of saline along the track, with historical cohort of same number of consecutive patients who underwent PTLB without injection of saline along the needle track (n = 100, group B). CT‐guided biopsies were performed by coaxial technique and 1–3 ml of saline was injected along the tract. Patient chjmirocteristics, lesion size, location and other baseline pjmirometers were compared. Incidence of pneumothorax and number of patients who underwent catheter drainage of pneumothorax was compared in both groups.

Results

Baseline chjmirocteristics were compjmiroble in both groups. Track sealing with saline was successful in all patients. Pneumothorax rate was 46% for patients in group B and 32% in group A (P < 0.05). Seven patients (7%) had insertion of chest drain for pneumothorax in the group B and only 1% in the group A (P < 0.05). No mortality was observed in both groups. No complications were observed in any of the patients due to saline injection.

Conclusion

Track sealing with saline is a simple and safe technique which significantly reduces the incidence of pneumothorax and chest tube insertion after PTLB.
Economic model of albumin infusion in septic shock: The EMAISS study
Authors: Guidet Bertrand , Ghout Idir , Ropers Jacques , Aegerter Philippe
Published: February 2020

Background

The cost‐effectiveness of albumin‐based fluid support in patients with septic shock is currently unknown.

Methods

In a simulation study, we compared standard medical practice and systematic 20% albumin infusion. The study population consisted of patients with septic shock admitted to one of the 28 ICUs belonging to the Cub‐Réa regional database between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016. Cost estimates were based on French diagnosis‐related groups and fixed daily prices. Estimation of mortality reduction relied on ALBIOS trial data documenting a Risk Ratio of 0.87 in a non‐preplanned subgroup of patients with septic shock. Life expectancy was estimated with follow up data of 184 patients with septic shock admitted in the year 2000 in the same ICUs. Several sensitivity analyses were performed including a one‐way Deterministic Sensitivity Analysis (DSA) and a Probabilistic multivariate Sensitivity Analysis (PSA).

Results

About 6406 patients were included. In the base‐case scenario, the mean live years gained with albumin was 0.49. The mean extra cost of using albumin was €480 per year. The cost per year gained was €974. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results. The probability of albumin being cost‐effective was 95% and 97% for a threshold fixed at €20 000 and €30 000 per life‐year saved, respectively.

Conclusion

Based on the risk reduction observed in the septic shock subgroup analysis of the ALBIOS dataset, the application of the ALBIOS trial results to Cub‐Réa data may suggest that albumin infusion is likely cost‐effective in septic shock.
A comparison of the marginal gaps of lithium disilicate crowns fabricated by two different intraoral scanners
Authors: Kwong B , Dudley J
Published: February 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess marginal gaps of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate crowns constructed using two different intraoral scanners of different generations.

Methods

Twenty four Columbia model lower left molars were prepared for lithium disilicate crowns in a simulated environment by undergraduate students. The crown preparations were scanned by E4D and Trios 3 intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM lithium disilicate crowns designed and manufactured. The crowns were seated onto the original crown preparations and three vertical marginal gap measurements taken at four locations (mid‐buccal, mid‐lingual, mid‐mesial and mid‐distal) using a stereomicroscope. The mean marginal gap (MMG) was calculated for each crown and each individual tooth surface.

Results

The MMG was not statistically significantly different for the Trios 3 and E4D scanners (P = 0.111). There was no statistically significant effect of measurement location on the tooth on the marginal gap (P = 0.1134).

Conclusions

There was no difference in the MMGs of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate crowns constructed using two different intraoral scanners of different generations. Within the limitations of this study, the advances in scanning technology have produced small and insignificant improvements in the accuracy of crown margins.
Atraumatic restorative treatments reduce the need for dental general anaesthesia: a non‐inferiority randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Arrow P , Forrest H
Published: February 2020

Background

A dental general anaesthesia (DGA) is commonly undertaken for the management of dental caries in young children. A randomized‐controlled trial was undertaken to test the feasibility of using the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment and Hall Technique approaches (ART/HT) to manage the dental treatment of children recommended for a DGA.

Methods

Consenting children, recommended a DGA for caries management, at the Oral Health Centre of Western Australia were randomized. Test group children were treated using the ART/HT approach and the control group under a DGA. Children were examined after 12 months by two blinded, calibrated examiners. Analysis was on an intention to treat basis; between and within group comparisons were undertaken using appropriate paired and unpaired tests. Logistic regression was used to test restorative success, controlling for clustering of teeth.

Results

Sixty‐five children participated, (Test = 32; Control = 33). At study termination, 28 children (88%) in the ART/HT group and 20 children (61%) in the DGA group had been provided with care, P < 0.01. Crown restorations were protective of restorative failure in a multivariate logistic model (OR 0.05, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Use of the ART/HT approach enabled timely dental treatment of young children recommended for a DGA, and should be among the treatment options considered.
International consensus definition of low anterior resection syndrome
Authors: Keane Celia , Fearnhead Nicola S. , Bordeianou Liliana G. , Christensen Peter , Espin Basany Eloy , Laurberg Søren , Mellgren Anders , Messick Craig , Orangio Guy R. , Verjee Azmina , Wing Kirsty , Bissett Ian P. ,   on behalf of the LARS International Collaborative Group
Published: February 2020

Background

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is pragmatically defined as disordered bowel function after rectal resection leading to a detriment in quality of life. This broad characterization does not allow for precise estimates of prevalence. The LARS score was designed as a simple tool for clinical evaluation of LARS. Although the LARS score has good clinical utility, it may not capture all important aspects that patients may experience. The aim of this collaboration was to develop an international consensus definition of LARS that encompasses all aspects of the condition and is informed by all stakeholders.

Methods

This international patient‐provider initiative used an online Delphi survey, regional patient consultation meetings and an international consensus meeting. Three expert groups participated: patients, surgeons and other health professionals from five regions (Australasia, Denmark, Spain, Great Britain and Ireland, and North America) and in three languages (English, Spanish and Danish). The primary outcome measured was the priorities for the definition of LARS.

Results

Three hundred and twenty‐five participants (156 patients) registered. The response rates for successive rounds of the Delphi survey were 86%, 96% and 99%. Eighteen priorities emerged from the Delphi survey. Patient consultation and consensus meetings refined these priorities to eight symptoms and eight consequences that capture essential aspects of the syndrome. Sampling bias may have been present, in particular, in the patient panel because social media was used extensively in recruitment. There was also dominance of the surgical panel at the final consensus meeting despite attempts to mitigate this.

Conclusions

This is the first definition of LARS developed with direct input from a large international patient panel. The involvement of patients in all phases has ensured that the definition presented encompasses the vital aspects of the patient experience of LARS. The novel separation of symptoms and consequences may enable greater sensitivity to detect changes in LARS over time and with intervention.
Spatial Poetics Under Authoritarianism: Graffiti and the Contestation of Urban Redevelopment in Contemporary China
Authors: Smith Nick R.
Published: February 2020

This article investigates the expression of resistance to urban redevelopment in the authoritarian context of contemporary China. Where conventional channels of public expression are closed, the very space of urban transformation becomes an important medium of contestation. Through the practice of “spatial poetics”, residents manipulate the taken‐for‐granted meanings attached to urban space, challenging the spatial codes that authorise redevelopment. Working across four spatial dimensions—territory, place, scale, and network—these poetic manipulations allow residents to de‐naturalise existing power structures, escape their effects, and re‐code space with alternative meanings. The article illustrates the practice of spatial poetics through an analysis of Ciqikou, a historic district of Chongqing undergoing redevelopment. Residents expressed their resistance to redevelopment by writing slogans on buildings slated for demolition. By emphasising relationships of scale, network, and place, residents’ graffiti challenged the territorial basis of the Chinese party‐state’s redevelopment project and revalorised the neighbourhood as worthy of preservation.
Samoan children's sense of place: Experiential landscapes in an urban village
Authors: Ergler Christina R. , Freeman Claire , Latai Anita
Published: February 2020

Pacific Island communities are experiencing significant societal changes as a result of rural urban, inter‐island migration and migration to New Zealand. These relocations have significant implications for children's relationship to place. However, virtually nothing is known about children's sense of place in Samoa or places and activities that are important to them. This exploratory study worked with eight children aged 5–12 years growing up in an urban village in Samoa drawing on ‘Talanoa’ as research methodology and method by employing photo‐elicitation. The study provides a first snapshot of Samoan children's sense of place growing up in an urban village.
Was Lacquer the Key Ingredient for Luxurious Jinyin Pingtuo Products in the Tang Dynasty of China (AD 618–907)?
Authors: Wang Q. , Chen Y. , Tamburini D.
Published: February 2020

Jinyin pingtuo is one of the most sumptuous decorative methods applied on ‘lacquered' objects described in Tang dynasty literatures. Two Tang dynasty objects, a silver bowl and a bronze mirror, in the British Museum collection said to be made by this technique, were scientifically examined to confirm the application of the technique. Although the metal décors levelled with the rest of the surfaces on these objects suggested the application of the pingtuo method, lacquer, a major ingredient of this technique, was not identified by Py (HMDS)‐GC–MS in any of the four samples analysed. The results question the use of lacquer in the pingtuo technique as usually described. The detection of shellac and oil in the bronze mirror aligns with other studies on similar objects, whereas proteinaceous materials as main ingredient of the decorative layers of the silver bowl, appear less usual. Further comparative study by scientific analysis of similar objects in other museum collections or from excavations is required to help better understand the use of lacquer in ancient China.
The ethics of ectogenesis‐aided foetal treatment
Authors: Segers Seppe , Pennings Guido , Mertes Heidi
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we aim to stimulate ethical debate about the morally relevant connection between ectogenesis and the foetus as a potential beneficiary of treatment. Ectogenesis could facilitate foetal interventions by treating the foetus independently of the pregnant woman and provide easier access to the foetus if interventions are required. The moral relevance hereof derives from the observation that, together with other developments in genetic technology and prenatal treatment, this may catalyse the allocation of a patient status to the foetus. The topic of foetal medicine is of growing interest to clinicians, and it also deserves due attention from an ethical perspective. To the extent that these developments contribute to the allocation of a patient status to the foetus (and to its respective interests for medical treatment), normative questions arise about how moral responsibilities towards foetal interests should be balanced against the interests of the pregnant woman. We conclude that, even if ectogenesis could facilitate foetal therapy, it is important to remain sensitive to the fact that it would not circumvent the key ethical concerns that come with in utero foetal treatment and that it may even exacerbate potential conflicts between directive treatment recommendations and the pregnant woman’s autonomous decision to the contrary.
Phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase promotes proliferation and bortezomib resistance through increasing reduced glutathione synthesis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Wu Xuan , Xia Jiliang , Zhang Jingyu , Zhu Yinghong , Wu Yangbowen , Guo Jiaojiao , Chen Shilian , Lei Qian , Meng Bin , Kuang Chunmei , Feng Xiangling , He Yanjuan , Shen Yi , Li Xin , Qiu Lugui , Li Guancheng , Zhou Wen
Published: February 2020

The serine synthesis pathway (SSP) is active in multiple cancers. Previous study has shown that bortezomib (BTZ) resistance is associated with an increase in the SSP in multiple myeloma (MM) cells; however, the underlying mechanisms of SSP‐induced BTZ resistance remain unclear. In this study, we found that phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH), the first rate‐limiting enzyme in the SSP, was significantly elevated in CD138+ cells derived from patients with relapsed MM. Moreover, high PHGDH conferred inferior survival in MM. We also found that overexpression of PHDGH in MM cells led to increased cell growth, tumour formation, and resistance to BTZ in vitro and in vivo, while inhibition of PHGDH by short hairpin RNA or NCT‐503, a specific inhibitor of PHGDH, inhibited cell growth and BTZ resistance in MM cells. Subsequent mechanistic studies demonstrated PHGDH decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) through increasing reduced glutathione (GSH) synthesis, thereby promoting cell growth and BTZ resistance in MM cells. Furthermore, adding GSH to PHGDH silenced MM cells reversed S phase arrest and BTZ‐induced cell death. These findings support a mechanism in which PHGDH promotes proliferation and BTZ resistance through increasing GSH synthesis in MM cells. Therefore, targeting PHGDH is a promising strategy for MM therapy.
Update of P2Y receptor pharmacology: IUPHAR Review 27
Authors: Jacobson Kenneth A. , Delicado Esmerilda G. , Gachet Christian , Kennedy Charles , von Kügelgen Ivar , Li Beibei , Miras‐Portugal M. Teresa , Novak Ivana , Schöneberg Torsten , Perez‐Sen Raquel , Thor Doreen , Wu Beili , Yang Zhenlin , Müller Christa E.
Published: February 2020

Eight G protein‐coupled P2Y receptor subtypes respond to extracellular adenine and uracil mononucleotides and dinucleotides. P2Y receptors belong to the δ group of rhodopsin‐like GPCRs and contain two structurally distinct subfamilies: P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4, P2Y6, and P2Y11 (principally Gq protein‐coupled P2Y1‐like) and P2Y12–14 (principally Gi protein‐coupled P2Y12‐like) receptors. Brain P2Y receptors occur in neurons, glial cells, and vasculature. Endothelial P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4, and P2Y6 receptors induce vasodilation, while smooth muscle P2Y2, P2Y4, and P2Y6 receptor activation leads to vasoconstriction. Pancreatic P2Y1 and P2Y6 receptors stimulate while P2Y13 receptors inhibits insulin secretion. Antagonists of P2Y12 receptors, and potentially P2Y1 receptors, are anti‐thrombotic agents, and a P2Y2/P2Y4 receptor agonist treats dry eye syndrome in Asia. P2Y receptor agonists are generally pro‐inflammatory, and antagonists may eventually treat inflammatory conditions. This article reviews recent developments in P2Y receptor pharmacology (using synthetic agonists and antagonists), structure and biophysical properties (using X‐ray crystallography, mutagenesis and modelling), physiological and pathophysiological roles, and present and potentially future therapeutic targeting.
The influence of Epstein‐Barr virus and cytomegalovirus on childhood respiratory health: A population‐based prospective cohort study
Authors: van Meel Evelien R. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , van Zelm Menno C. , de Jongste Johan C. , Moll Henriëtte A. , Duijts Liesbeth
Published: February 2020

Background

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection are common in early childhood. CMV infection favours a T‐helper‐1 and EBV infection a T‐helper‐2 cell response, possibly leading to disbalanced T‐helper cell response, and subsequent risk of asthma or atopy.

Objective

To study the associations of EBV and CMV with lung function, asthma and inhalant allergic sensitization at school age.

Methods

This study among 3546 children was embedded in a population‐based prospective cohort. At age 6 years, serum IgG levels against EBV and CMV were measured by ELISA. At age 10 years, lung function was measured by spirometry, asthma by questionnaire and inhalant allergic sensitization by skin prick test.

Results

Unadjusted models showed that seropositivity for EBV was associated with a higher FEV1 and FEF75 (Z‐score difference (95% CI): 0.09 (0.02, 0.16) and 0.09 (0.02, 0.15)), while seropositivity for CMV was not. Specific combinations of viruses showed that seropositivity for EBV was only associated with FEV1 and FEF75 in the presence of seropositivity for CMV (0.12 (0.04, 0.20)) and 0.08 (0.01, 0.15)). Seropositivity for CMV in the absence of seropositivity for EBV was associated with an increased risk of inhalant allergic sensitization (OR (95% CI): 1.31 (1.02, 1.68)). All effect estimates attenuated into non‐significant mainly after adjustment for child's ethnicity. Seropositivity for EBV or CMV was not associated with asthma.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Associations of EBV and CMV infections in early childhood with school‐age lung function and inhalant allergic sensitization are explained by ethnicity, or sociodemographic and lifestyle‐related factors.
Palatal tremor and intact Guillain‐Mollaret triangle secondary to Hashimoto’s encephalopathy
Authors: Zabala‐Angeles Indhira , Casallas‐Vanegas Adriana , Garcia‐Estrada Christian , Gomez‐Figueroa Enrique , Simon‐Arcos Miguel , Marcin Mariana , Ugalde‐Mejía de María , Corona‐Vázquez Teresita , Flores‐Rivera José , Rivas‐Alonso Verónica
Published: February 2020

Background

Hashimoto’s encephalopathy, also known as steroid‐responsive encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroiditis, is a rare association of neuropsychiatric symptoms and autoimmune thyroid disease. Among the movement disorders reported in Hashimoto’s encephalopathy, palatal tremor is relatively uncommon.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 50‐year‐old woman with neuropsychiatric symptoms characterized by behavioral changes, cognitive impairment, epilepsy, parkinsonism, palatal tremor and ataxia with high levels of serum anti‐thyroid peroxidase and a clear response after steroid therapy.

Conclusions

Given the reversibility of clinical manifestations, Hashimoto’s encephalopathy should be in the differential diagnosis of patients with unexplained seizures or encephalopathy who present with these symptoms or other involuntary movements.