bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Modified Lapidus Procedure on Pronation of the First Ray in Hallux Valgus
Authors: Conti Matthew S. , Willett Joseph F. , Garfinkel Jonathan H. , Miller Mark C. , Costigliola Stephen V. , Elliott Andrew J. , Conti Stephen F. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Hallux valgus (HV) is a triplanar deformity of the first ray including pronation of the first metatarsal with subluxation of the sesamoids. The purpose of this study was to investigate if a first tarsometatarsal fusion (modified Lapidus technique), without preoperative knowledge of pronation measured on weightbearing computed tomographic (CT) scans, changed pronation of the first metatarsal and determine if reduction of the sesamoids was correlated with changes in first metatarsal pronation.

Methods:

Thirty-one feet in 31 patients with HV who underwent a modified Lapidus procedure had preoperative and at least 5-month postoperative weightbearing CT scans and radiographs. Differences in preoperative and postoperative pronation of the first metatarsal using a 3-dimensional computer-aided design, HV angle, and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were calculated using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. After dividing patients into groups based on sesamoid station, Kruskal-Wallis H tests were used to compare first metatarsal pronation between the groups.

Results:

The mean preoperative and postoperative pronation of the first metatarsal was 29.0 degrees (range 15.8-51.1, SD 8.7) and 20.2 degrees (range 10.4-32.6, SD 5.4), respectively, which was a mean change in pronation of the first ray of −8.8 degrees ( P < .001). There was no difference in pronation of the first ray when stratified by postoperative sesamoid position ( P > .250). The average preoperative and postoperative IMA was 16.7 degrees (SD 3.2) and 8.8 degrees (SD 2.8), which demonstrated a significant change ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

The modified Lapidus procedure was an effective tool to change pronation of the first ray. Reduction of the sesamoids was not associated with postoperative first metatarsal pronation.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Extended granular micromechanics approach: a micromorphic theory of degree n
Authors: Nejadsadeghi Nima , Misra Anil
Published: October 2019

For many problems in science and engineering, it is necessary to describe the collective behavior of a very large number of grains. Complexity inherent in granular materials, whether due the variability of grain interactions or grain-scale morphological factors, requires modeling approaches that are both representative and tractable. In these cases, continuum modeling remains the most feasible approach; however, for such models to be representative, they must properly account for the granular nature of the material. The granular micromechanics approach has been shown to offer a way forward for linking the grain-scale behavior to the collective behavior of millions and billions of grains while keeping within the continuum framework. In this paper, an extended granular micromechanics approach is developed that leads to a micromorphic theory of degree n. This extended form aims at capturing the detailed grain-scale kinematics in disordered (mechanically or morphologically) granular media. To this end, additional continuum kinematic measures are introduced and related to the grain-pair relative motions. The need for enriched descriptions is justified through experimental measurements as well as results from simulations using discrete models. Stresses conjugate to the kinematic measures are then defined and related, through equivalence of deformation energy density, to forces conjugate to the measures of grain-pair relative motions. The kinetic energy density description for a continuum material point is also correspondingly enriched, and a variational approach is used to derive the governing equations of motion. By specifying a particular choice for degree n, abridged models of degrees 2 and 1 are derived, which are shown to further simplify to micro-polar or Cosserat-type and second-gradient models of granular materials.
Hip resurfacing arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty in the same patient: which do they prefer?
Authors: Calkins Tyler E , Suleiman Linda I , Culvern Chris , Alazzawi Sulaiman , Kazarian Gregory S , Barrack Robert L , Haddad Fares S , Della Valle Craig J
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) is an alternative to conventional total hip arthroplasty (THA) with potential advantages of preserving femoral bone stock and the ability to participate in higher impact activities. This study compares outcomes, satisfaction and preference in patients who underwent HRA in 1 hip and THA on the contralateral side.

Methods:

62 Patients with an HRA in 1 hip and a contralateral THA were retrospectively identified at 3 centres, consisting of 38 males and 24 females with 53 patients (85.5%) undergoing HRA first. A survey regarding satisfaction and preference for each procedure and outcome scores were obtained.

Results:

Patients were younger (51.5 vs. 56.6 years, p = 0.002) and had longer follow-up on the HRA hip (11.0 vs. 6.0 years, p < 0.001). HRA was associated with larger increase in Harris Hip Score from preoperative to final follow-up (35.8 vs. 30.6, p = 0.035). 18 Patients (29.0%) preferred HRA, 19 (30.6%) preferred THA and 25 (40.3%) had no preference ( p = 0.844). When asked what they would choose if they could only have 1 surgery again, 41 (66.1%, p < 0.001) picked HRA. Overall satisfaction ( p = 0.504), willingness to live with their HRA versus THA for the rest of their life ( p = 0.295) and recommendation to others ( p = 0.097) were similar.

Conclusions:

Although HRA is associated with risks related to metal-on-metal bearings, it showed greater increase in patient-reported outcomes and a small subjective preference amongst patients who have undergone both conventional and resurfacing arthroplasty.
Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis in Hospital-Acquired Surgical Wound Infections and Bacteremia: Concomitant Analysis of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes
Authors: Esmail Mona Abdel Monem , Abdulghany Hend M , Khairy Rasha MM
Published: October 2019

Background:

The study aimed to assess the prevalence of Enterococcus faecalis infections among patients with hospital-acquired surgical wound sepsis and bacteremia in surgical wards and identify the antimicrobial susceptibility in these pathogens. Genetic role of erythromycin, vancomycin, and cephalosporin resistance in these pathogens was also examined.

Methods:

Two hundred samples were collected from surgical wound infections and 100 blood cultures from patients with suggested bacteremia to identify E faecalis by phenotypic and genotypic methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility to 12 antimicrobial agents was tested. The presence of resistance genes was examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay.

Results:

E faecalis was isolated with a frequency of 24/200 (12%) from surgical wound samples and 2/100 (2%) from blood cultures. All isolates were completely resistant to cefepime, ampicillin, and tetracycline, 96% of isolates were resistant to erythromycin, 53.8% to vancomycin, and 23.1% to linezolid. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 100% of isolates. ere(B) and erm(B) genes were present in 20/25 (80%) and 17/25 (68%) of erythromycin-resistant isolates, respectively, 15 (60%) isolates carry both ere(B) and erm(B) genes. Van A gene was detected in 71.4% of vancomycin-resistant isolates. All isolates were negative for mef(A/E), blaSHV, and blaTEM genes.

Conclusion:

MDR in all isolates (100%) and high-level resistance to gentamicin, erythromycin, and vancomycin were reported in E Faecalis isolates. In the studied isolates, erythromycin resistance mainly related to the presence of ere(B) and erm(B) genes and vancomycin resistance was mainly related to the presence of vanA gene.
Chicken or the egg? A cross-lagged panel analysis of group identification and group-based relative deprivation
Authors: Zubielevitch Elena , Sibley Chris G. , Osborne Danny
Published: October 2019

Group identification and group-based relative deprivation (GRD) are critical predictors of numerous group-oriented attitudes and behaviours. While social-identity-based approaches suggest that salient group identities increase social comparisons, empirical data bearing on the causal direction of the relationship between group identification and GRD are mixed. To resolve this inconsistency, we examined the cross-lagged effects of group identification on GRD—as well as the potential reverse causal pathway—using three annual waves of data from a nationally representative sample of ethnic minorities in New Zealand ( N = 5,115). Although we found evidence of a reciprocal relationship between variables, ethnic group identification had a stronger positive cross-lagged effect on ethnic GRD than vice versa, suggesting that social identity is an important antecedent to invidious group-based comparisons. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Constructing audience quantification: Social influences and the development of norms about audience analytics and metrics
Authors: Zamith Rodrigo , Belair-Gagnon Valerie , Lewis Seth C
Published: October 2019

Audience analytics and metrics are ubiquitous in today’s media environment. However, little is known about how creative media workers come to understand the social norms related to those technologies. Drawing on social influence theory, this study examines formal and informal socialization mechanisms in U.S. newsrooms. It finds that editorial newsworkers express receiving a moderate amount of training on the use of analytics and metrics, which is typically provided by their organization; primarily look to people within the organization, and especially superiors, to understand the social norms; learn about those norms mostly through observation and communication about others’ experiences with the technology rather than their own; and that experiences are influenced by the organizational context and the individual’s position in the editorial hierarchy. This leads to a broader intervention to our understanding of the social structures and individual dispositions that influence how emerging technologies are experienced across organizational and institutional environments.
Governing through vulnerability in austerity England
Authors: Menichelli Francesca
Published: October 2019

Drawing on interviews with practitioners, the article reconstructs how and why vulnerability has become an organizing principle in community safety work in England and Wales. Decreasing crime rates, growing awareness of risk and harm, loss of political salience of volume crime and modifications to the structure of incentives all contributed to making the move away from crime and disorder possible. The article shows how vulnerability is now used to facilitate partnership working to maintain existing levels of service provision, but also to ration the amount of support made available to citizens at a time of austerity. This is potentially problematic and open questions remain on the solidity, orientation and reach of this shift. The article concludes by discussing the research findings in light of their broader implications for European criminology and comparative research.
A Call to Action for Intermediate and Secondary School Lifestyle Medicine Education: Instating Healthy Teen Behaviors
Authors: Tollefson Michelle , Kees Alexandra , Bolze Andrew , Wolferz Richard , Plaven Brittany , Frates Elizabeth Pegg
Published: October 2019

Chronic diseases, previously thought to require decades of risk factors, have become increasingly prevalent in America’s youth. National Health Education Standards have been published since 1995, and yet nearly a fifth of schools fail to follow any state or national health education guidelines. Utilizing the phrase “lifestyle medicine” in childhood would elevate the importance and standardization of the core health guidelines. Several independent pilot programs taught by undergraduate and medical student volunteers have successfully demonstrated lifestyle medicine education models at intermediate and secondary schools. Preliminary feedback demonstrates that student interest in and consideration of behavioral change is possible within this age group. As with any life stage, significant behavior change in youth requires strategic planning of authentic learning practices and culturally competent lessons. We argue for the interdisciplinary development and implementation of community-engaged lifestyle medicine education for intermediate and secondary schools as a promising intervention to address and reverse the chronic disease trend in our youth.
The Legal Molecule
Authors: Delaney David
Published: October 2019

Situated at the intersection of the cultural study of pharmaceuticals and the cultural study of law and using Trantor’s (2011) critique of ‘the law and technology enterprise’ as a point of departure, this paper examines the pill as a techno-legal device. Just as pills contain an active pharmacological ingredient so too do they contain active legal ingredients. Where the molecular composition of pills are designed by chemists their legal-semic aspects are designed by lawyers. These are collaborative projects. Where the former are interested in the effects of molecules at bio-sites, the latter are concerned with the effects of legal signifiers in relation to each other as interpreted in a range of hermeneutic sites through cultural practices of reading and meta-reading. These meanings are built into the molecule itself thus resulting in the fabrication of legal molecules.
Bridging the gap between the social science and the social ontology of collective memory
Authors: Blustein Jeffrey
Published: October 2019

It is commonplace to attribute memories to groups of individuals both large and small. Attributions of memories to groups are also found in social science research. This article proposes using philosophical accounts from the literature on social ontology to help clarify and deepen our understanding of how these terms are being employed in the social sciences. Two contrasting accounts of collective remembering are presented: the joint commitment account derived from the seminal work of Margaret Gilbert, and the participatory intentions account based on Christopher Kutz’s analysis of collective action. The implications of these accounts for clarifying notions of collective memory and remembering in the social sciences are explored through two case studies—one involving a social media site that promotes sharing of memories among users and the other concerning organizational remembering.
Transcribed ultraconserved region (T-UCR) uc.261 expression is closely correlated with disease activity and intestinal permeability in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Qian Xiao-Xian , Cai Chen-Wen , Li Han-Yang , Lai Li-Jie , Song Dong-Juan , Qiao Yu-Qi , Shen Jun , Ran Zhi-Hua
Published: October 2019

Objectives:

Transcribed ultraconserved region (T-UCR) uc.261 is reported to participate in intestinal mucosa barrier damage in Crohn’s disease (CD). The aim of this study was to determine the association with disease activity and intestinal permeability.

Methods:

Uc.261 level in colon mucosa and Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) were evaluated in 20 active CD patients. Uc.261 expression and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) were determined in Caco2 and T84 cells treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), respectively. Body weight, disease activity index (DAI), colon length, histological index (HI), intestinal permeability to FITC-dextran, uc.261, and tight junction proteins (TJPs) levels were evaluated in BALB/C mice treated with saline enema, trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)/ethanol enema, and anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody injection, respectively.

Results:

Uc.261 expression was overexpressed in CD patients, TNF-α treated cells, and colitis mice. Uc.261 expression was positively correlated with HBI ( r = 0.582, p = 0.007) in CD patients, and positively correlated with TNF-α concentration and negatively correlated TEER in Caco2 and T84 cells (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, uc.261 was positively correlated with DAI ( r = 0.824, p = 0.008), HI ( r = 0.672, p = 0.021), and intestinal permeability ( r = 0.636, p = 0.012), while negatively correlated with body weight ( r = –0.574, p = 0.035), colon length ( r = –0.866, p = 0.017), and TJP expression (all p < 0.05) in colitis mice.

Conclusions:

Uc.261 expression was closely correlated with disease activity and intestinal permeability in CD. Anti-TNF-α treatment may play its role through suppressing uc.261 expression in colitis mice.
A randomized, phase IIa study to assess the systemic exposure of triamcinolone acetonide following injection of extended-release triamcinolone acetonide or traditional triamcinolone acetonide into both knees of patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Kivitz Alan , Kwong Louis , Shlotzhauer Tammi , Lufkin Joelle , Cinar Amy , Kelley Scott
Published: October 2019

Background:

Intra-articular corticosteroids are commonly used for pain relief in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Simultaneous intra-articular corticosteroid (CS) knee injections may be beneficial for the ~80–90% of patients who present with, or develop, bilateral knee osteoarthritis, but concurrent injections may increase systemic CS exposure and data on safety/tolerability are lacking. Triamcinolone acetonide extended release (TA-ER) has shown decreased systemic triamcinolone acetonide exposure compared with traditional triamcinolone acetonide crystalline suspension (TAcs) after a single knee injection in patients with knee osteoarthritis. This phase IIa study was designed to assess the safety and systemic triamcinolone acetonide exposure following injections of TA-ER or TAcs into each knee of patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis.

Methods:

Patients (⩾40 years) meeting American College of Rheumatology criteria for knee osteoarthritis in both knees received concurrent single intra-articular injections of TA-ER 32 mg or TAcs 40 mg into each knee (total: 64 mg and 80 mg, respectively) and were followed for 6 weeks. Safety was evaluated based on treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Blood samples for pharmacokinetic analysis were collected pre-injection, and at the following postinjection time points: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 24 h, and days 8, 15, 29, and 43.

Results:

Baseline characteristics were balanced between patients randomly assigned to TA-ER ( n = 12) or TAcs ( n = 12). Both treatments were well tolerated with comparable TEAE profiles. Peak plasma triamcinolone acetonide concentrations (Cmax) were lower following bilateral TA-ER injections [geometric mean, 2277.7 pg/ml (95% CI, 1602.13–3238.04)] compared with bilateral TAcs injections [7394.7 pg/ml (2201.06–24,843.43)], with median times to Cmax (Tmax) of 4.5 and 6.5 h, respectively.

Conclusions:

In patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis, intra-articular injection of TA-ER into both knees was well tolerated. Consistent with pharmacokinetic profiles observed after a single knee injection, plasma triamcinolone acetonide concentrations were lower after bilateral TA-ER injections compared with the higher and more variable concentrations observed after bilateral TAcs injections.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

NCT03378076
Analysis of Public-Private Partnership in Providing Primary Health Care Policy: An Experience From Iran
Authors: Gharaee Hojatolah , Tabrizi Jafar Sadegh , Azami-Aghdash Saber , Farahbakhsh Mostafa , Karamouz Majid , Nosratnejad Shirin
Published: October 2019

Background: This study aims to analyze the public-private partnership (PPP) policy in primary health care (PHC), focusing on the experience of the East Azerbaijan Province (EAP) of Iran. Methods: This research is a qualitative study. Data were gathered using interviews with stakeholders and document analysis and analyzed through content analysis. Results: Participants considered political and economic support as the most important underlying factors. Improving system efficiency was the main goal of this policy. Most stakeholders were supporters of the plan, and there was no major opponent. Implementing the health evolution plan (HEP) was an opportunity to design this policy. Participants considered the lack of provision of infrastructure as the main weakness, changing the role of the public sector as the main strength, and promoting social justice as the main achievement of policy. The results of the quantitative data review showed that following the implementation of this policy, health indicators have been improved. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, the PPP model in EAP is a new and successful experience in PHC in Iran. Supporting and developing this policy may improve the quality and quantity of providing care.
A potential need for surgeon consensus: Cementation techniques for total knee arthroplasty in orthopedic implant manufacturers’ guidelines lack consistency
Authors: Randall Dustin J , Anderson Mike B , Gililland Jeremy M , Peters Christopher L , Pelt Christopher E
Published: October 2019

Aim:

Given recent concerns regarding the influence of different cements and implants on the rate of aseptic failures in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), we wondered if cementation technique could play a role. The primary aim of this review was to collect and compare the surgeon education materials from eight orthopedic implant manufacturers to evaluate the manufacturers’ recommended cementation technique in TKA and identify if there was any consistency in these readily available guides as to the best practices of cementation of their implants.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed contemporary surgeon education guidelines for all TKA systems available from eight manufacturers. Variables included: cement type, batches prepared, surface preparation prior to application, cleaning and/or drying the bone surface, mixing the cement, the waiting phase after the cement has been mixed prior to application, pressurizing the cement, location of cement application, and the curing time. Data were recorded and organized for qualitative comparisons.

Results:

We identified a total of 43 guides covering 38 implants from eight different manufacturers. There were 41 surgical technique guides and two general brochures regarding cementation techniques available from the manufacturers. Even within the manufacturers’ own guidelines for the different implants, there was a wide variety of differing guidelines on many aspects of the cementation technique.

Conclusion:

There is clearly no consensus for a preferred cementation technique both within and among manufacturers’ surgeon education materials regarding tibial baseplate cementation during TKA. Efforts may be needed to identify a best-practice cementation technique in an effort to reduce the number of TKA failures associated with aseptic loosening.
Pathological Findings of Synchysis Scintillans Secondary to Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy With Chronic Exudative Retinal Detachment
Authors: Lin James , Garcia Armando , Chen Ying , Dubovy Sander , Lee Wendy , Kopplin Laura J. , Berrocal Audina
Published: October 2019

Purpose:

We describe a unique case of synchysis scintillans in a 23-year-old woman with a history of chronic exudative retinal detachment in the setting of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy.

Methods:

Fundus and slit-lamp photographs were obtained at presentation, and pathological studies were performed on the enucleated specimen to confirm the diagnosis.

Results:

Synchysis scintillans is a degenerative condition of cholesterol deposition that affects severely damaged eyes, often as a result of chronic vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment. In this case, synchysis scintillans presented as crystals in the anterior chamber in the setting of a chronic retinal detachment. After enucleation, there were noted to be cholesterol slits on pathological correlation, confirming the diagnosis.

Conclusions:

This case demonstrates the importance of clinical pathological correlation in the diagnosis of synchysis scintillans migrating into the anterior chamber.
Role of HR in Corporate Governance: A Watchdog or a Bloodhound?
Authors: Narendran Rajeshwari
Published: October 2019

The image of a human resource (HR) professional in the eyes of employees and management revolves mostly around a ‘generalist profile’, busy in event management or ready to put bottlenecks for any of the issues and challenges with employees or workers alike. Mostly, it sounds like a bloodhound when HR is negatively ready to be a troublemaker rather than a problem-solver. Can HR play a vital role in being the catalyst of change? This article dwells upon seeing how the role of HR can be positive in fostering corporate governance.
GENAVi: a shiny web application for gene expression normalization, analysis and visualization
Authors: Reyes Alberto Luiz P. , Silva Tiago C. , Coetzee Simon G. , Plummer Jasmine T. , Davis Brian D. , Chen Stephanie , Hazelett Dennis J. , Lawrenson Kate , Berman Benjamin P. , Gayther Simon A. , Jones Michelle R.
Published: October 2019

Background

The development of next generation sequencing (NGS) methods led to a rapid rise in the generation of large genomic datasets, but the development of user-friendly tools to analyze and visualize these datasets has not developed at the same pace. This presents a two-fold challenge to biologists; the expertise to select an appropriate data analysis pipeline, and the need for bioinformatics or programming skills to apply this pipeline. The development of graphical user interface (GUI) applications hosted on web-based servers such as Shiny can make complex workflows accessible across operating systems and internet browsers to those without programming knowledge.

Results

We have developed GENAVi (Gene Expression Normalization Analysis and Visualization) to provide a user-friendly interface for normalization and differential expression analysis (DEA) of human or mouse feature count level RNA-Seq data. GENAVi is a GUI based tool that combines Bioconductor packages in a format for scientists without bioinformatics expertise. We provide a panel of 20 cell lines commonly used for the study of breast and ovarian cancer within GENAVi as a foundation for users to bring their own data to the application. Users can visualize expression across samples, cluster samples based on gene expression or correlation, calculate and plot the results of principal components analysis, perform DEA and gene set enrichment and produce plots for each of these analyses. To allow scalability for large datasets we have provided local install via three methods. We improve on available tools by offering a range of normalization methods and a simple to use interface that provides clear and complete session reporting and for reproducible analysis.

Conclusion

The development of tools using a GUI makes them practical and accessible to scientists without bioinformatics expertise, or access to a data analyst with relevant skills. While several GUI based tools are currently available for RNA-Seq analysis we improve on these existing tools. This user-friendly application provides a convenient platform for the normalization, analysis and visualization of gene expression data for scientists without bioinformatics expertise.
Weak correlations between serum and cerebrospinal fluid levels of estradiol, progesterone and testosterone in males
Authors: Martin Jan , Plank Eva , Jungwirth Bettina , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Podtschaske Armin , Kagerbauer Simone M.
Published: October 2019

Background

Neuroactive steroids seem to be implicated in a variety of neurophysiological and behavioral processes, such as sleep, learning, memory, stress, feeding and aging. Numerous studies have also addressed this implication in various cerebral disorders and diseases. Yet, the correlation and association between steroids in the periphery, e.g. blood, and the central compartments, e.g. cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), have not yet been comprehensively assessed. As the brain is not directly accessible, and the collection of human CSF usually requires invasive procedures, easier accessible compartments, such as blood, have always attracted attention. However, studies in humans are scarce. In the present study we determined estradiol, progesterone and testosterone levels in CSF and serum of 22 males without cerebral disorders or diseases.

Results

Samples were taken under conditions corresponding closest to basal conditions with patients expecting only spinal anesthesia and minor surgery. All samples per patient were collected concomitantly. Total estradiol, progesterone and testosterone concentrations were measured by electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay. The strength of correlation was assessed by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Correlation analysis revealed merely weak to very weak correlations for estradiol, progesterone and testosterone respectively between the CSF and serum compartments.

Conclusions

Total steroid levels of estradiol, progesterone and testosterone in CSF and serum of males without neurological disorders were determined. Weak to very weak correlations between CSF and serum were found thus suggesting that concentrations in the periphery do not parallel concentrations in the central compartments. Further research is needed to clarify to what extent and under which conditions serum levels of estradiol, progesterone and testosterone may possibly serve as a biomarker reflecting the respective concentrations in the CSF or in the brain.
Changes in gene expression and metabolic profile of drupes of Olea europaea L. cv Carolea in relation to maturation stage and cultivation area
Authors: Bruno Leonardo , Picardi Ernesto , Pacenza Marianna , Chiappetta Adriana , Muto Antonella , Gagliardi Olimpia , Muzzalupo Innocenzo , Pesole Graziano , Bitonti Maria Beatrice
Published: October 2019

Background

Olive (Olea europaea L.) is an emblematic oil tree crop in the Mediterranean basin. Currently, despite olive features as a moderately thermophilic species, its cultivation is worldwide spreading due to the health-related impact of olive products on human nutrition. A point of concern for the expanding olive cultivation is related to the influence that, in addition to genotype, environmental factors exerts on drupe development and metabolism with consequent impact on fruit key traits. In this context, the aim of the present work was to gain further information on the genetic networks controlling drupe maturation phase and, mainly, on their modulation in response to environmental cues.

Results

To achieve this goal, a comparative transcriptome-wide investigation was carried out on drupes of Olea europaea cultivar Carolea, collected from plants growing in areas at different altitude level and therefore experiencing different climatic conditions. Two maturation stages of drupe were analysed: green mature and turning-purple. Metabolic characterization of drupe was also performed. At both transcriptomic and metabolic level differences were detected in the pathway of fatty acids (FAs) and phenol compounds, in relation to both drupe maturation stage and cultivation area. Among the most relevant differences detected during the transition from GM to TP stages there were: the upregulation of FADs genes in the drupes of population growing at 700 masl, the upregulation of phenol biosynthesis-related genes in drupes growing at 10 and 200 masl and very interestingly the downregulation of specific genes involved in secoiridoids production in drupes growing at 700 masl. Globally, these results suggested that stability of FAs and phenols, mainly of secoiridoids group, is promoted at high altitude, while at lower altitude phenol biosynthesis is prolonged.

Conclusion

The obtained results showed a differential modulation of genetic pathways related to olive compound quality in relation to the cultivation area, likely imposed by the different temperature impending at each altitude. The derived molecular information appears of interest for both breeding and biotechnological programs of olive species, especially with respect to the modulation of antioxidant secoiridoid compounds which play a key role in conferring both sensorial and healthy characteristic to olive products.
Association of circular RNAs and environmental risk factors with coronary heart disease
Authors: Sun Yi , Chen Rong , Lin Shaowei , Xie Xiaoxu , Ye Hailing , Zheng Fuli , Lin Jie , Huang Qing , Huang Shuna , Ruan Qishuang , Zhang Tingxing , Li Huangyuan , Wu Siying
Published: October 2019

Background

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a complex disease caused by multi-factors and a major threat to human health. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have critical roles in various biological processes and diseases. This study explores the independent role of circRNAs and their interaction with environmental factors in CHD.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted from March 2015 to September 2017 in Fuzhou, China. A total of 585 CHD patients and 585 gender- and age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Questionnaire survey, health examination and molecular biology laboratory testing were conducted. Microarray technology and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to profile the expression levels of circRNAs. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to determine the diagnostic cut-offs. Multivariate logistic regression and multiplicative analysis were used to analyse the effects of environmental factors and hsa_circ_0008507, hsa_circ_0001946, hsa_circ_0000284 and hsa_circ_0125589 on CHD.

Results

The expression profile of circRNAs showed that 3423 circRNAs were differentially expressed at P < 0.05, but none pass multiple testing correction. qRT-PCR further confirmed the expression levels of hsa_circ_0008507, hsa_circ_0001946 and hsa_circ_0000284 in peripheral blood leukocytes in CHD cases were higher than those in non-CHD subjects (All p < 0.05). Hsa_circ_0008507 (OR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.11–1.50), hsa_circ_0001946 (OR = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.01–1.42) and hsa_circ_0000284 (OR = 2.05; 95% CI: 1.32–3.19) were independent risk factors for CHD after controlling other common environmental risk factors. The AUC for hsa_circ_0008507, hsa_circ_0001946 and hsa_circ_0000284 was 0.75, 0.71 and 0.68, respectively. Compared with non-smoking individuals with low hsa_circ_0008507 expression, the smokers with high hsa_circ_0008507 expression showed the highest magnitude of OR in CHD risk. Additionally, a statistically significant multiplicative interaction was found between hsa_circ_0008507 and smoking for CHD.

Conclusions

Hsa_circ_0008507, hsa_circ_0001946 and hsa_circ_0000284 were closely related to the occurrence and development of CHD. The combination of smoking and high hsa_circ_0008507 expression causes the occurrence and development of CHD.
Do ultrathin strut bare-metal stents with passive coating improve efficacy in large coronary arteries? Insights from the randomized, multicenter BASKET-PROVE trials
Authors: Hansen Kim Wadt , Jeger Raban , Sørensen Rikke , Kaiser Christoph , Pfisterer Matthias , Biering-Sørensen Tor , Bjerking Louise Hougesen , Galatius Søren
Published: October 2019

Background

The new generation thinner-strut silicon carbide (SiC) coated cobalt chromium (CoCr) bare-metal stents (BMS) are designed to accelerate rapid endothelialisation and reduce thrombogenicity when implanted in coronary arteries. However, smaller studies suggest higher rates of symptomatic restenosis in patients receiving the newer generation BMS.

We investigated the efficacy of a newer generation ultrathin strut silicon-carbide coated cobalt-chromium (CoCr) BMS (SCC-BMS) as compared to an older thin-strut uncoated CoCr BMS (UC-BMS) in patients presenting with coronary artery disease requiring stenting of large vessels (≥3.0 mm).

Methods

All patients randomized to SCC- (n = 761) or UC-BMS (n = 765) in the two BASKET-PROVE trials were included. Design, patients, interventions and follow-up were similar between trials except differing regimens of dual antiplatelet therapy. The primary endpoint was clinically driven target-vessel revascularization within 24 months. Safety endpoints of cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and definite/probable stent thrombosis (ST) were also assessed. We used inverse probability weighted proportional hazards Cox regressions adjusting for known confounders.

Results

Demographics, clinical presentation, and risk factors were comparable between the groups, but patients receiving SCC-BMS underwent less complex procedures. The risk for clinically driven TVR was increased om the SCC-BMS group compared to the UC-BMS group (cumulative incidence, 10.6% vs. 8.4%; adjusted relative hazard [HR], 1.49 [95% CI, 1.05–2.10]). No differences in safety endpoints were detected, cardiac death (1.6% vs. 2.8%; HR, 0.62 [CI, 0.30–1.27]), non-fatal MI (3.2% vs. 2.5%; HR, 1.56 [CI, 0.83–2.91]), and definite/probable ST (0.8% vs. 1.1%; HR, 1.17 [CI, 0.39–3.50]). Differences in strut thickness between the two stents did not explain the association between stent type and clinically driven TVR.

Conclusions

In patients requiring stenting of large coronary arteries, use of the newer generation SCC-BMS was associated with a higher risk of clinically driven repeat revascularization compared to the UC-BMS with no signs of an offsetting safety benefit.
Reference values and associated factors of hand grip strength in elderly Saudi population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alqahtani Bader , Alenazi Aqeel , Alshehri Mohammed , Alqahtani Mohammed , Elnaggar Ragab
Published: October 2019

Background

Hand grip strength (HGS) is an important function of upper extremities for older adults. Several studies have shown the importance of measuring HGS in different settings. Current established normative values of HGS are applicable for Western countries. However, there is limited information of normative values of HGS after considering demographics in Saudi population. Therefore, this study aimed to establish normative values of HGS stratified by age and gender, and to determine the association of anthropometric measurements with the HGS in Saudi population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study included a total of 1048 participants (mean age 73 ± 5 years). Grip strength was calculated by the average peak force of three trials for the dominant hand using a dynamometer. Sociodemographic data on age, gender, marital status, educational levels were collected. Anthropometric measurements including height, body mass index, arm circumference, and upper arm length were obtained. The sample was categorized into three age groups: 65–69 years, 70–74 years, and 75–80 years. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the association between the sociodemographic and anthropometric data and HGS.

Results

The mean values of HGS (kg) for men for each age group were 36.9 ± 8.3 for the younger group, 35.7 ± 7.4 for the 70–74 years group and 30.5 ± 7.1 for the older group. The mean values of HGS for women for each group were 23.2 ± 4.7 for the younger group, 21.1 ± 4.6 for the 70–74 years group and 18.8 ± 4.9 for the older group. The HGS was negatively associated with the age for men (B = -.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−.52, −.29], p < 0.001) and women (B = -.30, 95% CI [− 0.38, − 0.22], p < 0.001), and positively associated with the arm length in men (B = .87, 95% CI [.60, 1.15], p < 0.001). The HGS was positively associated with the educational level in men (B = .66, 95% CI [.09,1.21], p = .02), but negatively associated in women (B = -.42, 95% CI [− 0.75, − 0.08], p = .01).

Conclusion

This study is the first that established normative values of HGS for older adults in Saudi Arabia. Future research may benefit from the current normative value of HGS in Saudi population for geriatric rehabilitation programs.
Melatonin for the prevention of postoperative delirium in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Campbell Ashley M. , Axon David Rhys , Martin Jennifer R. , Slack Marion K. , Mollon Lea , Lee Jeannie K.
Published: October 2019

Background

Older surgical patients are at high risk of developing postoperative delirium. Non-pharmacological strategies are recommended for delirium prevention, but no pharmacological agents have compelling evidence to decrease the incidence of delirium. The purpose of this study was to assess whether perioperative melatonin decreases the incidence of delirium in older adults undergoing surgical procedures.

Methods

A systematic search using PubMed/Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and references of identified articles published in English between January 1990 and October 2017 was performed. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts, and then extracted data following a full-text review of included articles with consensus generation and bias assessment. Studies reporting outcomes for melatonin or ramelteon use to prevent delirium in postoperative hospitalized patients (mean age ≥ 50 years) were eligible for inclusion. Data were pooled using a fixed-effects model to generate a forest plot and obtain a summary odds ratio for the outcome of interest (delirium incidence). Cochran’s Q and I2values were used to investigate heterogeneity.

Results

Of 335 records screened, 6 studies were selected for the qualitative analysis and 6 were included in the meta-analysis (n = 1155). The mean age of patients in included studies ranged from 59 to 84 years. Patients in intervention groups typically received melatonin or ramelteon at daily doses of two to eight milligrams around cardiothoracic, orthopedic, or hepatic surgeries for one to nine days, starting on the evening before or the day of surgery. The incidence of delirium ranged from 0 to 30% in the intervention groups versus 4–33% in the comparator groups, and was significantly reduced in the melatonin group, with a summary effect of the meta-analysis yielding an odds ratio of 0.63 (95% CI 0.46 to 0.87; 0.006; I2 = 72.1%). A one study removed analysis reduced overall odds ratio to 0.310 (95% CI 0.19 to 0.50), while reducing heterogeneity (Cochran’s Q = 0.798, I2 = 0.000).

Conclusion

Perioperative melatonin reduced the incidence of delirium in older adults in the included studies. While optimal dosing remains an unanswered question, the potential benefit of melatonin and melatonin receptor agonists may make them a reasonable option to use for delirium prevention in older adults undergoing surgical procedures.
Effect of ultrasound-guided central venous catheter insertion on the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections and mechanical complications
Authors: Imataki Osamu , Shimatani Mami , Ohue Yukiko , Uemura Makiko
Published: October 2019

Background

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are necessary for critically ill patients, including those with hematological malignancies. However, CVC insertion is associated with inevitable risks for various adverse events. Whether ultrasound guidance decreases the risk of catheter-related infection remains unclear.

Methods

We observed 395 consecutive CVC insertions between April 2009 and January 2013 in our hematological oncology unit. Because the routine use of ultrasound guidance upon CVC insertion was adopted based on our hospital guidelines implemented after 2012, the research period was divided into before December 2011 (early term) and after January 2012 (late term).

Results

Underlying diseases included hematological malignancies and immunological disorders. In total, 235 and 160 cases were included in the early- and late term groups, respectively. The median insertion duration was 26 days (range, 2–126 days) and 18 days (range, 2–104 days) in the early- and late term groups, respectively. The internal jugular, subclavian, and femoral veins were the sites of 22.6, 40.2, and 25.7% of the insertions in the early term group and 32.3, 16.9, and 25.4% of the insertions in the late term group, respectively. The frequency of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) was 1.98/1000 catheter days and 2.17/1000 catheter days in the early- and late term groups, respectively. In the subgroup analysis, the detected causative pathogens of CRBSI did not differ between the two term groups; gram-positive cocci, gram-positive bacilli, and gram-negative bacilli were the causative pathogens in 68.9, 11.5, and 14.8% of the cases in the early term group and in 68.2, 11.4, and 18.2% of the cases in the late term group, respectively. In the multivariate analysis to determine the risk of CRBSI, only age was detected as an independent contributing factor; the indwelling catheter duration was detected as a marginal factor. A significant reduction in mechanical complications was associated with the use of ultrasound guidance.

Conclusions

Ultrasound-guided CVC insertion did not decrease the incidence of CRBSI. The only identified risk factor for CRBSI was age in our cohort. However, we found that the introduction of ultrasound-guided insertion triggered an overall change in safety management with or without the physicians’ intent.
A multiplex PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of Taenia hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and Dipylidium caninum infections
Authors: Zhu Guo-Qiang , Li Li , Ohiolei John Asekhaen , Wu Yan-Tao , Li Wen-Hui , Zhang Nian-Zhang , Fu Bao-Quan , Yan Hong-Bin , Jia Wan-Zhong
Published: October 2019

Background

Taenia hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and Dipylidium caninum are four common large and medium-sized tapeworms parasitizing the small intestine of dogs and other canids. These parasites cause serious impact on the health and development of livestock. However, there are, so far, no commercially available molecular diagnostic kits capable of simultaneously detecting all four parasites in dogs. The aim of the study was therefore to develop a multiplex PCR assay that will accurately detect all four cestode infections in one reaction.

Methods

Specific primers for a multiplex PCR were designed based on corresponding mitochondrial genome sequences, and its detection limit was assessed by serial dilutions of the genomic DNAs of tapeworms examined. Furthermore, field samples of dog feces were tested using the developed assay.

Results

A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that accurately and simultaneously identify four cestode species in one reaction using specific fragment sizes of 592, 385, 283, and 190 bp for T. hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and D. caninum, respectively. The lowest DNA concentration detected was 1 ng for T. hydatigena, T. multiceps and T. pisiformis, and 0.1 ng for D. caninum in a 25 μl reaction system. This assay offers high potential for the rapid detection of these four tapeworms in host feces simultaneously.

Conclusions

This study provides an efficient tool for the simultaneous detection of T. hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and D. caninum. The assay will be potentially useful in epidemiological studies, diagnosis, and treatment of these four cestodes infections during prevention and control program.