bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of discordance between patient’s and evaluator’s global assessment on treatment outcomes in 14 868 patients with spondyloarthritis
Authors: Michelsen Brigitte , Ørnbjerg Lykke Midtbøll , Kvien Tore K , Pavelka Karel , Nissen Michael J , Nordström Dan , Santos Maria José , Koca Suleyman Serdar , Askling Johan , Rotar Ziga , Gudbjornsson Bjorn , Codreanu Catalin , Loft Anne Gitte , Kristianslund Eirik Klami , Mann Herman F , Ciurea Adrian , Eklund Kari K , Vieira-Sousa Elsa , Yazici Ayten , Jacobsson Lennart , Tomšič Matija , Löve Thorvardur Jón , Ionescu Ruxandra , van der Horst-Bruinsma I E , Iannone Florenzo , Pombo-Suarez Manuel , Jones Gareth T , Hyldstrup Lise Hejl , Krogh Niels Steen , Hetland Merete Lund , Østergaard Mikkel
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To assess the impact of ‘patient’s minus evaluator’s global assessment of disease activity’ (ΔPEG) at treatment initiation on retention and remission rates of TNF inhibitors (TNFi) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patients across Europe.

Methods

Real-life data from PsA and axSpA patients starting their first TNFi from 11 countries in the European Spondyloarthritis Research Collaboration Network were pooled. Retention rates were compared by Kaplan–Meier analyses with log-rank test and by Cox regression, and remission rates by χ2 test and by logistic regression across quartiles of baseline ΔPEG, separately in female and male PsA and axSpA patients.

Results

We included 14 868 spondyloarthritis (5855 PsA, 9013 axSpA) patients. Baseline ΔPEG was negatively associated with 6/12/24-months’ TNFi retention rates in female and male PsA and axSpA patients (P <0.001), with 6/12/24-months’ BASDAI < 2 (P ≤0.002) and ASDAS < 1.3 (P ≤0.005) in axSpA patients, and with DAS28CRP(4)<2.6 (P ≤0.04) and DAPSA28 ≤ 4 (P ≤0.01), but not DAS28CRP(3)<2.6 (P ≥0.13) in PsA patients, with few exceptions on remission rates. Retention and remission rates were overall lower in female than male patients.

Conclusion

High baseline patient’s compared with evaluator’s global assessment was associated with lower 6/12/24-months’ remission as well as retention rates of first TNFi in both PsA and axSpA patients. These results highlight the importance of discordance between patient’s and evaluator’s perspective on disease outcomes.
Catastrophic costs due to tuberculosis in South India: comparison between active and passive case finding
Authors: Muniyandi Malaisamy , Thomas Beena Elizabeth , Karikalan Nagarajan , Kannan Thiruvengadam , Rajendran Krishnan , Dolla Chandra Kumar , Saravanan Balakrishnan , Tholkappian Ayyakannu Sivaprakasham , Tripathy Srikanth Prasad , Swaminathan Soumya
Published: December 2019

Background

To measure and compare economic burden at the household level for tuberculosis (TB) patients who were detected through active case finding (ACF) and passive case finding (PCF) in rural areas.

Methods

This study was conducted in the Thiruvallur district from October 2016 to March 2018. TB patients diagnosed through ACF were included in this study. For the comparison, patients diagnosed through ACF were recruited in the ratio of 1:2 from the same study area during the same period. Costs between the groups were compared and a multiple regression model was used to identify factors associated with catastrophic costs due to TB.

Results

Of the 336 individuals, 110 were diagnosed through ACF and 226 through PCF. A total of 29% of patients diagnosed through PCF and 9% of patients diagnosed through ACF experienced catastrophic costs due to TB. The multiple logistic model shows that catastrophic costs due to TB had a significant association with higher income status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.91 [confidence interval {CI} 2.39 to 10.08]; p<0.001), alcohol use (aOR 2.78 [CI 1.33 to 5.81]; p=0.007), private as a first point of care (aOR 3.91 [CI 2.01 to 7.60]; p<0.001) and PCF (aOR 3.68 [CI 1.62 to 8.33]; p=0.002).

Conclusions

Findings highlight that ACF significantly averted catastrophic costs due to TB among patients. ACF as a strategy could ensure financial protection of TB patients and limit their risk of poverty.
Effect of urbanization on the communities of Tardigrades in Argentina
Authors: González-Reyes Andrea , Rocha A Mariana , Corronca José , Rodriguez-Artigas Sandra , Doma Irene , Ostertag Belén , Grabosky Alfonsina
Published: December 2019

Urban tardigrades are studied little worldwide. In Salta (Argentina), two studies have evaluated their diversity in an urban–native gradient. Vehicular traffic in Salta city has increased over the last decade, increasing environmental pollution. Our aim is to determine whether biotic homogenization occurs in this city. Sampling sites were selected considering different vehicular traffic intensities (high, medium and low). Tardigrades were sampled from bryophytes growing on tree trunks. Specimens were treated according to the usual study methodology. Different biotic and environmental abiotic variables of the microhabitat were considered. A total of 3049 specimens of 16 species of heterotardigrades and eutardigrades were reported. The low vehicular transit habitat was more diverse than the others. Ordination analyses evidenced a nested pattern in the studied urban habitats. Milnesium sp. nov. 3 and Minibiotus sp. nov. 1 were reported as detector species for habitats with medium vehicular traffic. The partition of the β diversity showed that the species turnover was higher among low and high vehicular traffic communities than medium, whereas a loss of species was evidenced between high and medium habitats. The high diversity of tardigrades in Salta city and their assemblages are partly dependent on several factors, including vehicular traffic.
A Subantarctic rare gastropod reveals a new type of spawn among heterobranchs
Authors: Di Luca Javier , Penchaszadeh Pablo E , Pastorino Guido
Published: December 2019

Spawn and specimens of Toledonia biplicata comb. nov. were collected from Burdwood Bank during March 2013. Species-level identification was derived from radular, shell and spawn characters. A low number of eggs laid per spawn (one to three), absence of an external gelatinous mass and a considerably thickened capsule wall (~50 µm) constitute a unique combination of spawn characters among heterobranchs. Egg capsules are ovoid in shape and measure 600–763 × 450–656 µm. They are filled with albuminous liquid, allowing complete intracapsular development of a single embryo. The developmental stages recognized are uncleaved eggs (153 µm in average diameter), veliger stages (279–378 µm in maximal length) and prehatchling juveniles (442–609 µm). Toledonia biplicata increases its volume 40-fold during its intracapsular development, whereas other comparable cephalaspids increase ≤ 4-fold. The role of the capsule wall as protection and an additional source of food is discussed. The adaptive value of these characters in relationship to the environmental conditions of the Magellanic region is discussed. A comparison with the spawn of other cephalaspids, nudibranchs and pleurobranchids is conducted, and the taxonomic implications are discussed. This is the first description of the spawn and developmental stages of a representative of the genus Toledonia.
Short-term effects of ambient air pollution and outdoor temperature on biomarkers of myocardial damage, inflammation and oxidative stress in healthy adults
Authors: Xu Hongbing , Brook Robert D. , Wang Tong , Song Xiaoming , Feng Baihuan , Yi Tieci , Liu Shengcong , Wu Rongshan , Chen Jie , Zhang Yi , Liu Shuo , Zhao Qian , Wang Yang , Zheng Lemin , Huo Yong , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Li Jianping , Huang Wei
Published: December 2019

The mechanisms whereby ambient air pollution and temperature changes promote cardiac events remain incompletely described. Seventy-three nonsmoking healthy adults (mean age 23.3, SD 5.4 years) were followed with up to four repeated visits across 15 months in Beijing in 2014–2016. Biomarkers relevant to myocardial damage (high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I [hs-cTnI]), inflammation (growth differentiation factor-15 [GDF-15]), and oxidative stress (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG]) were measured at each visit, while ambient air pollution and temperature were monitored throughout the study. Linear mixed-effects models coupled with distributed lag nonlinear models were used to assess the impacts of each exposure measure on study outcomes. During follow-up, average daily concentrations of fine particulate matter and outdoor temperature were 62.9 µg/m3 (8.1–331.0 µg/m3) and 10.1 °C (−6.5°C to 29.5°C). Serum hs-cTnI levels were detectable in 18.2% of blood samples, with 27.4% of individuals having ≥1 detectable values. Higher levels of ambient particulates and gaseous pollutants (per interquartile range) up to 14 days before clinical visits were associated with significant alterations in hs-cTnI levels of 22.9% (95% CI, 6.4, 39.4) to 154.7% (95% CI, 94.4, 215.1). These changes were accompanied by elevations of circulating GDF-15 and urinary 8-OHdG levels. Both low (5th percentile, −2.5 °C) and high (95th percentile, 24.8°C) outdoor temperatures, with breakpoint at ~13.0°C as the reference level, were also associated with elevations of hs-cTnI levels. Short-term exposure to ambient air pollution and temperature was associated with cardiac troponin, a biomarker of myocardial damage, along with increased inflammation and oxidative stress responses. These findings extend our understanding of the biological mechanisms linking pervasive environmental exposure to adverse cardiac events.
Pharmacotherapy for Treatment of Cognitive and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms After mTBI
Authors: Rabinowitz Amanda R. , Watanabe Thomas K.
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

Cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms are extremely common following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), also known as concussion. Although most patients will recovery rapidly, a significant minority go on to experience persistent symptoms. There are currently no FDA-approved medications for treatment of cognitive and neuropsychiatric problems in the context of mild TBI, yet a number of agents are prescribed “off-label” for these complaints. Rigorous trials are lacking, but there are a number of open-label studies, and some small randomized controlled trials that support the safety and possible efficacy of pharmacotherapies in this population. Clinical trials conducted in samples with more severe brain injuries can also serve as a guide.

Methods:

Review of the literature.

Results & Conclusions:

There is the most support in the literature for the neurostimulant methylphenidate for treatment of mild TBI–related cognitive dysfunction, and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, sertraline, for the treatment of postinjury depression. There is clearly a need for more well-designed studies to guide clinicians in selecting the appropriate medication and dose. Without clear guidance from the literature, a cautious approach of starting low and titrating slowly is recommended.
Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Tranylcypromine and Tricyclic Antidepressants in the Treatment of Depression
Authors: Ulrich Sven , Ricken Roland , Buspavanich Pichit , Schlattmann Peter , Adli Mazda
Published: December 2019

Purpose

We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of the comparison of tranylcypromine (TCP) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in the treatment of depression because such work is lacking in medical scientific literature.

Methods

Literature was searched for studies of TCP controlled by TCAs in multiple databases and in reviews of TCP and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. The natural logarithm of the odds ratio (logOR) and the pooled logOR according to a fixed effect model were calculated for the numbers of responders and nonresponders.

Results

A total of 227 studies of TCP were found including 75 controlled studies of TCP-monotherapy. Twelve of 23 studies of TCP monotherapy and TCAs were excluded for several reasons (duplicates, safety studies, retrospective, cross-over), leaving 11 prospective and parallel controlled studies of TCP monotherapy versus TCAs (6 randomized double-blind). One study was excluded from the meta-analysis because of low quality of study design according to the Food and Drug Administration guidelines of studies of antidepressant drugs and high risk of bias according to the Cochrane's tool. Two studies with equal efficacy of TCP and TCAs in continuous endpoints did not provide dichotomous response data. A pooled logOR of 0.480 (95% confidence interval, 0.105–0.857,P= 0.01) resulted for the remaining eight studies in the primary meta-analysis, which favors TCP significantly over TCAs (test for heterogeneity:Х2= 8.1,df= 7,P> 0.3, not heterogenous;I2= 13.6%, heterogeneity not important). The result is robust with respect to inclusion of hypothetical response data of the 2 studies with continuous data only: pooled logOR, 0.350 (95% confidence interval, 0.028–0.672,P= 0.03). Visual inspection of forest plots and subgroup analysis suggest that superiority of TCP over TCAs is determined by 2 studies in psychomotor-retarded (anergic) depression.

Conclusions

Tranylcypromine and TCAs have an equal antidepressant effect in a mean sample of depressed patients with mixed psychomotor symptoms. Tranylcypromine might be superior to TCAs in depression with predominant psychomotor retardation.
Sound Measurement in Patient-Specific 3D Printed Bench Models of Venous Pulsatile Tinnitus
Authors: Valluru Keerthi , Parkhill James , Gautam Ayushi , Haraldsson Henrik , Kao Evan , Leach Joseph , Wright Alexandra , Ballweber Megan , Meisel Karl , Saloner David , Amans Matthew
Published: December 2019

Hypothesis:

We hypothesize patient-specific flow models to be an adequate in vitro surrogate to allow for characterization of pulsatile tinnitus (PT) that affects three to five million Americans.

Background:

PT, rhythmic sounds without an extracorporeal source that patients appreciate, can be caused by aberrant blood flow in large cerebral veins near the cochlea. To investigate the sound production mechanism, we created 3D printed flow models based on patient-specific cerebral venous anatomies.

Methods:

Magnetic resonance angiography datasets from two patients with PT were used to generate patient-specific 3D printed flow models. A flow circuit connecting the patient-specific models to a pulsatile, continuous flow pump simulating cardiac cycle was created. Sound recordings were made along the surface of the models using an electronic stethoscope. Peak-to-rms amplitude, and area under the power spectral density (PSD) curve values were computed to evaluate the sound measurements. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to statistically determine the differences in measurements between the patient-specific models.

Results:

In patient-1, the recordings (peak-to-rms) from the internal jugular vein stenosis of baseline model (4.29 ± 1.26 for 146 samples) were significantly louder (p < 0.001) than that of the altered model (3.29 ± 0.96 for 143 samples). In patient-2, the sound measured at the transverse sinus stenosis in the pre-lumbar puncture model (4.84 ± 1.11 for 148 samples) was significantly louder (p < 0.0001) than that of the post-lumbar puncture model (3.14 ± 0.87 for 135 samples).

Conclusions:

The models are able to generate sounds very similar to those appreciated by patients and examiners in the cases of objective PT.
Morning versus afternoon adenoma detection rate: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Barakat Mohamed , Panchal Ankur , Abdelfatah Mohamed M. , Elhanafi Sherif , Carr-Locke David L. , Othman Mohamed O.
Published: December 2019

Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a quality marker of colonoscopy and operator performance. Prior studies evaluating the effect of an extended workday on the ADR reported variable outcomes that remain controversial. Given the variable results of prior studies and the potential legal implications of reduced ADR in the afternoon, we aimed to further evaluate this parameter and its effect on ADR. We performed a systematic review of the PubMed, CINAHL and Scopus electronic databases. Studies were included if they reported ADR in patients undergoing colonoscopy in the morning session and the afternoon session. Afternoon sessions included both sessions following a morning shift and half-day block shifts. Subgroup analyses were performed for ADR comparing morning and afternoon colonoscopies in a continuous workday, advanced ADRs (AADRs) and polyp detection rates (PDRs) were also compared. Thirteen articles with 17 341 (61.2%) performed in the morning session and 10 994 (38.8%) performed in the afternoon session were included in this study. There was no statistical significance in the ADR or AADR between morning and afternoon sessions, respectively [relative risk (RR) 1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.99–1.14] and (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.95–1.5). Afternoon procedures had a significantly higher PDR than morning procedures (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88–0.98). ADR was not significantly influenced in the afternoon session when operators continued to perform procedures throughout the day or on a half-day block schedule.
Alcohol, smoking and rectal cancer risk in a Mediterranean cohort of adults: the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Italy cohort.
Authors: Bendinelli Benedetta , Palli Domenico , Assedi Melania , Facchini Luigi , Grioni Sara , Agnoli Claudia , Ricceri Fulvio , Macciotta Alessandra , Panico Salvatore , Mattiello Amalia , Tumino Rosario , Giurdanella Maria C. , Saieva Calogero , Masala Giovanna
Published: December 2019

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most diagnosed malignant cancers worldwide. Rectal cancers (Rcs) represent one-third of all CRCs. Cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking are two underestimated risk factors for RC. We aimed to evaluate the role of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking in modulating RC risk and to estimate the attributable fraction in a Mediterranean population.

Methods

In the Italian section of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition, 45,553 healthy adults (31,252 women) were recruited and provided information about lifestyle and dietary habits. During 14.0 years of median follow-up, 154 incident RC cases were identified.

Results

In multivariate models, a increase in RC risk emerged among subjects drinking more than 3 drinks/day, overall (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.74; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–2.80), and in females (HR= 2.80; 95% CI 1.23–6.35), compared with drinkers of less than 1 drink/day. A increase in risk also emerged for current- compared with never-smokers, overall (HR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.06–2.35; P for trend 0.03) and among males (HR = 2.04; 95% CI 1.02–4.07; P for trend 0.045). Overall, 9% (95% CI 4–14%) of RC cases were attributable to drinking more than 3 drinks/day and 12% (95% CI 3–19%) were attributable to current smoke and 20% (95% CI 11–27%) of RC cases were attributable to the independent effects of these two exposures.

Conclusion

Our study supports a strategy to avoid a relevant proportion of rectal cancer cases through a combined reduction of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking.
Portal vein thrombosis prevalence and mortality among alcoholic cirrhosis in a nationwide inpatient cohort
Authors: Fan Xiaowen , Huang Xiaoquan , Hershman Melissa , Zheng Xin , Jiang Changchuan , Yue Bing , Weisberg Ilan
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

Portal vein thrombosis is commonly associated with cirrhosis. The effect of alcoholic cirrhosis on portal vein thrombosis prevalence and mortality has not been well studied.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing the 2000–2014 National Inpatient Sample Database. We included patients older than 18 years with decompensated cirrhosis without a history of liver transplantation or hepatocellular carcinoma. We further identified patients with alcoholic cirrhosis vs. non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Primary outcomes included the risk and mortality of portal vein thrombosis in alcoholic cirrhosis. Secondary outcomes included trends of portal vein thrombosis prevalence and mortality in alcoholic cirrhosis, implications of portal vein thrombosis on complications in alcoholic cirrhosis vs. non-alcoholic cirrhosis, and risk of venous thromboembolism in alcoholic cirrhosis.

Results:

Among 1 892 271 patients with decompensated alcoholic cirrhosis, portal vein thrombosis prevalence was 1.3%. Alcoholic cirrhosis was associated with lower risk of portal vein thrombosis (odds ratio 0.76, P < 0.001) and venous thromboembolism (odds ratio 0.69, P < 0.001) compared to non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Portal vein thrombosis contributed to increased mortality (odds ratio 1.19, P < 0.001) in alcoholic cirrhosis. Portal vein thrombosis prevalence among alcoholic cirrhosis increased while mortality declined during the study period.

Conclusion:

Thrombotic events including portal vein thrombosis and venous thromboembolism were found in less frequent association with alcoholic cirrhosis compared with non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Despite this, the higher in-hospital mortality found among portal vein thrombosis with alcoholic cirrhosis should prompt careful consideration of management.
Upper Limb Robotic Rehabilitation After Stroke: A Multicenter, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Aprile Irene , Germanotta Marco , Cruciani Arianna , Loreti Simona , Pecchioli Cristiano , Cecchi Francesca , Montesano Angelo , Galeri Silvia , Diverio Manuela , Falsini Catuscia , Speranza Gabriele , Langone Emanuele , Papadopoulou Dionysia , Padua Luca , Carrozza Maria Chiara
Published: December 2019

Background and Purpose:

After stroke, only 12% of survivors obtain complete upper limb (UL) functional recovery, while in 30% to 60% UL deficits persist. Despite the complexity of the UL, prior robot-mediated therapy research has used only one robot in comparisons to conventional therapy. We evaluated the efficacy of robotic UL treatment using a set of 4 devices, compared with conventional therapy.

Methods:

In a multicenter, randomized controlled trial, 247 subjects with subacute stroke were assigned either to robotic (using a set of 4 devices) or to conventional treatment, each consisting of 30 sessions. Subjects were evaluated before and after treatment, with follow-up assessment after 3 months. The primary outcome measure was change from baseline in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) score. Secondary outcome measures were selected to assess motor function, activities, and participation.

Results:

One hundred ninety subjects completed the posttreatment assessment, with a subset (n = 122) returning for follow-up evaluation. Mean FMA score improvement in the robotic group was 8.50 (confidence interval: 6.82 to 10.17), versus 8.57 (confidence interval: 6.97 to 10.18) in the conventional group, with no significant between-groups difference (adjusted mean difference −0.08, P = 0.948). Both groups also had similar change in secondary measures, except for the Motricity Index, with better results for the robotic group (adjusted mean difference 4.42, P = 0.037). At follow-up, subjects continued to improve with no between-groups differences.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Robotic treatment using a set of 4 devices significantly improved UL motor function, activities, and participation in subjects with subacute stroke to the same extent as a similar amount of conventional therapy. Video Abstract is available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A291).
Outcome Evaluation of Highly Challenging Balance Training for People With Parkinson Disease: A Multicenter Effectiveness-Implementation Study
Authors: Leavy Breiffni , Joseph Conran , Löfgren Niklas , Johansson Hanna , Hagströmer Maria , Franzén Erika
Published: December 2019

Background and Purpose:

In order for people with Parkinson disease (PwPD) to benefit from neurorehabilitation research, interventions tested in research settings require assessment in real-world clinical practice. There is little evidence for whether efficacious exercise interventions for PwPD remain effective when transferred to standard clinical settings. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of the adapted HiBalance program on balance control and gait among PwPD.

Methods:

Participants (n = 117) with mild-moderate Parkinson disease were consecutively included into either the 10-week HiBalance group training (n = 61) or the control (n = 56) group. The main outcome was balance performance (Mini-BESTest). Secondary outcomes were comfortable gait speed (10-m Walk Test); functional mobility (Timed Up and Go [TUG] test) and dual-task interference (cognitive TUG test); physical activity level (steps per day); perceived balance confidence (Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale) and perceived walking difficulty (Walk-12G) and self-rated health (EQ-5D visual analog scale).

Results:

In total, 98 people completed the trial. Compared with controls, the training group showed significant improvement in balance performance (P < 0.001), gait speed (P = 0.001), and dual-task interference (P = 0.04) following the intervention. No group differences were observed for physical activity level or any patient-reported measures.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Highly challenging balance training is effective at improving balance, gait, and dual-task performance when delivered at a clinically feasible dose, in a range of rehabilitation settings, without direct involvement of the research group.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplementary Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A299).
68Ga-ZHER2 PET/CT Reveals HER2-Positive Metastatic Gastric Cancer With Better Image Quality Than 18F-FDG
Authors: Zhou Nina , Guo Xiaoyi , Yang Min , Zhu Hua , Yang Zhi
Published: December 2019

A 40-year-old woman with suspected recurrent HER2-positive gastric cancer underwent both 18F-FDG PET/CT and 68Ga-ZHER2 PET/CT. Both scans revealed multiple lesions in bones and the left supraclavicular lymph node. Compared with 18F-FDG, 68Ga-ZHER2 PET/CT showed better image contrast, especially in the bone lesions.
Large Renal Cysts on Bone Scintigraphy in a Patient With Lower Back Pain
Authors: Zhu Yahua , Geng Jun , Wang Haili , Shao Fuqiang
Published: December 2019

Bone scintigraphy is often utilized to detect the osseous etiology of lower back pain. Here we report a 70-year-old man with lower back pain who was referred a 99mTc-MDP bone scan to identify possible vertebral compression fracture. The images did not detect any osseous lesion. However, the images revealed photopenic regions in the both kidneys, which were confirmed as renal cysts on the CT images. The patient received laparoscopic unroofing of renal cysts, and his symptoms improved. Our case illustrated that back pain is not always due to osseous etiology, it might be caused by urinary disorder.
Assessment of Outcomes of a Metatarsal Bone Ostectomy for Chronic Plantar Ulcers
Authors: Chiu Wen-Kuan , Yang Ten-Fang , Wang Hsian-Jenn , Chen Chiehfeng
Published: December 2019

Background

Clinical management of chronic plantar ulcers is a difficult issue in medical practice. Pressure overloading is a problem that needs to be resolved. Herein, we report a surgical method to reduce plantar pressure: a dorsal approach to a metatarsal ostectomy.

Methods

From March 2011 to October 2016, 16 patients suffering from chronic plantar ulcers underwent ostectomy procedures at Taipei Wan-Fang Municipal Hospital (Taipei Medical University). A bone segment about 0.5 to 1 cm long was removed via a dorsal foot approach. The plantar wound was treated with debridement only or was simultaneously covered with a skin graft. In total, 16 patients with an average age of 57.81 (SD, 11.6) years (12 males and 4 females) were included; 15 patients (93.75%) had a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes for a mean of 20.66 years (range, 5–30 years). The mean glycated hemoglobin was 9.14 g/dL (range, 5.2–13.2 g/dL). The mean plantar wound size was 5.72 cm2. Four patients (25%) needed to receive a skin graft with a mean skin graft size of 8.13 cm2.

Results

The mean follow-up time was 15.2 months. The plantar wounds completely healed in 14 patients (87.5%) in an average of 2.14 months. No plantar ulcer was complicated with recurrence, but transfer ulcers developed in 2 patients (12.5%) at an average of 7.5 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

Metatarsal ostectomy surgery via a dorsal foot approach is an efficient way to reduce pressure overloading of chronic plantar wounds. Our study provides an alternative method to treat this difficult problem with a high wound healing rate and less recurrence.
Salivary Gland Tumors
Authors: Liao Wen-Chieh , Chih-Chao Chuang , Ma Hsu , Hsu Chih-Yi
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of salivary gland tumors (SGTs) in a Taiwanese population and to provide data for comparison with other studies in various locations and racial populations.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 559 patients with tumors of the salivary glands who were surgically treated from 2002 to 2017 at a single institution.

Results

There were 430 benign and 129 malignant tumors with a mean age of 53.5 years (range, 1–91 years). The mean age of patients with benign SGTs was 52.6 years, and the mean age of patients with malignant SGTs was 55.8 years. Most findings were similar to those reported in literature, with some variations. The salivary tumors slightly predominated in males. There were no differences in age and incidence of benign or malignant major SGTs between males and females. The frequency was 76.9% for benign tumors (430 patients) and 23.1% for malignant tumors (129 patients). The majority of the tumors occurred in the parotid gland (351 cases), followed by the submandibular gland (152 cases), the minor salivary glands (46 cases), and, lastly, the sublingual gland (10 cases). Minor SGTs occurred most frequently on the palate, with pleomorphic adenoma, the most frequent benign tumor type, and adenoid cystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma, the commonest malignant tumor types. Tumors of the sublingual gland were rare, but 80% were malignant.

Conclusions

In our series, SGTs were uncommon neoplasms that typically arose in the parotid gland. Benign tumors were far more common than malignant tumors. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common benign tumors. Adenoid cystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma constituted the most common malignancies. Almost 60% of the tumors arising from minor salivary glands were malignant; thus, special care must be taken when these glands are affected.
History and Evolution of Orthognathic Surgery at Chang Gung Craniofacial Center
Authors: Chou Pang-Yun , Denadai Rafael , Yao Chuan-Fong , Chen Ying-An , Chang Chun-Shin , Lin Clement Cheng-Hui , Liao Yu-Fang , Liou Eric J. W. , Ko Ellen Wen-Ching , Lo Lun-Jou , Huang Chiung-Shing , Chen Yu-Ray
Published: December 2019

Background

Modern orthognathic surgery (OGS) was established on the basis of contributions from multidisciplinary centers worldwide. This study reports the history and evolution of OGS at the Chang Gung Craniofacial Center (CGCC) and identifies the lessons learned from 35 years of experience.

Methods

The total number of OGS procedures managed by the CGCC multidisciplinary team between 1981 and 2016 was determined. The database of the senior author (Y.-R.C.) was reviewed for consecutive OGS procedures performed between 2003 and 2016. A literature review was also performed to retrieve the contributions from the total CGCC team.

Results

The 35 years of experience at a single center and 13-year experience of a single surgeon corresponded to 8073 and 2883 OGS procedures, respectively. Moreover, 53 peer-reviewed articles were reviewed. Teamwork (plastic surgeons, orthodontists, and anesthetists) ensured an optimal balance between occlusion functional and facial aesthetic outcomes, with patient safety ensured and a minimum of OGS-related complications. Progression from the conventional orthodontics-first approach to the surgery-first OGS approach decreased the overall treatment time. Transition from 1-jaw to 2-jaw surgery enabled more consistent aesthetic outcomes to be achieved. Conversion from the 2-splint to the single-splint technique enabled development of a more precise tridimensional simulation plan and surgical execution, including in challenging scenarios such as malocclusion associated with facial asymmetry. Clockwise pitch rotation of the maxillomandibular complex has been designed for facial aesthetic purposes in class III malocclusion, whereas counterclockwise pitch rotation of the maxillomandibular complex improves airway function in those with sleep apnea.

Conclusions

The lessons learned from experience and outcome-based articles reveal that OGS has successfully evolved at the CGCC, with a balance being achieved between functional and aesthetic outcomes and effective decreases in the burden of care (ie, morbidity, complications, and treatment time).
The Murphy–Good plot: a better method of analysing field emission data
Authors: Forbes Richard G.
Published: December 2019

Measured field electron emission (FE) current–voltage
I
m
(
V
m
) data are traditionally analysed via Fowler–Nordheim (FN) plots, as

ln

{

I

m

/

V

m

2

}

versus 1/
V
m
. These have been used since 1929, because in 1928 FN predicted they would be linear. In the 1950s, a mistake in FN's thinking was found. Corrected theory by Murphy and Good (MG) made theoretical FN plots slightly curved. This causes difficulties when attempting to extract precise values of emission characterization parameters from straight lines fitted to experimental FN plots. Improved mathematical understanding, from 2006 onwards, has now enabled a new FE data-plot form, the ‘Murphy–Good plot'. This plot has the form

ln
⁡
{

I

m

/

V

m

(
2
−
η

/

6
)

}

versus 1/
V
m
, where
η
≅ 9.836239 (eV/
ϕ
)
1/2
and
ϕ
is the local work function. Modern (twenty-first century) MG theory predicts that a theoretical MG plot should be ‘almost exactly' straight. This makes precise extraction of well-defined characterization parameters from ideal
I
m
(
V
m
) data much easier. This article gives the theory needed to extract characterization parameters from MG plots, setting it within the framework of wider difficulties in interpreting FE
I
m
(
V
m
) data (among them, use of ‘smooth planar emitter methodology'). Careful use of MG plots could also help remedy other problems in FE technological literature. It is suggested that MG plots should replace FN plots.
tagPAINT: covalent labelling of genetically encoded protein tags for DNA-PAINT imaging
Authors: Nieves Daniel J. , Hilzenrat Geva , Tran Jason , Yang Zhengmin , MacRae Hugh H. , Baker Matthew A. B. , Gooding J. Justin , Gaus Katharina
Published: December 2019

Recently, DNA-PAINT single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) has shown great promise for quantitative imaging; however, labelling strategies thus far have relied on multivalent and affinity-based approaches. Here, the covalent labelling of expressed protein tags (SNAP tag and Halo tag) with single DNA-docking strands and application of SMLM via DNA-PAINT is demonstrated. tagPAINT is then used for T-cell receptor signalling proteins at the immune synapse as a proof of principle.
Filamentous phages reduce bacterial growth in low salinities
Authors: Goehlich Henry , Roth Olivia , Wendling Carolin C.
Published: December 2019

Being non-lytic, filamentous phages can replicate at high frequencies and often carry virulence factors, which are important in the evolution and emergence of novel pathogens. However, their net effect on bacterial fitness remains unknown. To understand the ecology and evolution between filamentous phages and their hosts, it is important to assess (i) fitness effects of filamentous phages on their hosts and (ii) how these effects depend on the environment. To determine how the net effect on bacterial fitness by filamentous phages changes across environments, we constructed phage–bacteria infection networks at ambient 15 practical salinity units (PSU) and stressful salinities (11 and 7 PSU) using the marine bacterium,
Vibrio alginolyticus
and its derived filamentous phages as model system. We observed no significant difference in network structure at 15 and 11 PSU. However, at 7 PSU phages significantly reduced bacterial growth changing network structure. This pattern was mainly driven by a significant increase in bacterial susceptibility. Our findings suggest that filamentous phages decrease bacterial growth, an indirect measure of fitness in stressful environmental conditions, which might impact bacterial communities, alter horizontal gene transfer events and possibly favour the emergence of novel pathogens in environmental
Vibrios
.
On rigid origami I: piecewise-planar paper with straight-line creases
Authors: He Zeyuan , Guest Simon D.
Published: December 2019

Origami (paper folding) is an effective tool for transforming two-dimensional materials into three-dimensional structures, and has been widely applied to robots, deployable structures, metamaterials, etc. Rigid origami is an important branch of origami where the facets are rigid, focusing on the kinematics of a panel-hinge model. Here, we develop a theoretical framework for rigid origami, and show how this framework can be used to connect rigid origami and its cognate areas, such as the rigidity theory, graph theory, linkage folding and computer science. First, we give definitions regarding fundamental aspects of rigid origami, then focus on how to describe the configuration space of a creased paper. The shape and 0-connectedness of the configuration space are analysed using algebraic, geometric and numeric methods. In the algebraic part, we study the tangent space and generic rigid-foldability based on the polynomial nature of constraints for a panel-hinge system. In the geometric part, we analyse corresponding spherical linkage folding and discuss the special case when there is no cycle in the interior of a crease pattern. In the numeric part, we review methods to trace folding motion and avoid self-intersection. Our results will be instructive for the mathematical and engineering design of origami structures.
Deconstructing sociality: the types of social connections that predict longevity in a group-living primate
Authors: Ellis Samuel , Snyder-Mackler Noah , Ruiz-Lambides Angelina , Platt Michael L. , Brent Lauren J. N.
Published: December 2019

Many species use social interactions to cope with challenges in their environment and a growing number of studies show that individuals which are well-connected to their group have higher fitness than socially isolated individuals. However, there are many ways to be ‘well-connected’ and it is unclear which aspects of sociality drive fitness benefits. Being well-connected can be conceptualized in four main ways: individuals can be socially integrated by engaging in a high rate of social behaviour or having many partners; they can have strong and stable connections to favoured partners; they can indirectly connect to the broader group structure; or directly engage in a high rate of beneficial behaviours, such as grooming. In this study, we use survival models and long-term data in adult female rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) to compare the fitness outcomes of multiple measures of social connectedness. Females that maintained strong connections to favoured partners had the highest relative survival probability, as did females well-integrated owing to forming many weak connections. We found no survival benefits to being structurally well-connected or engaging in high rates of grooming. Being well-connected to favoured partners could provide fitness benefits by, for example, increasing the efficacy of coordinated or mutualistic behaviours.
Proclivity of nervous system preservation in Cambrian Burgess Shale-type deposits
Authors: Ortega-Hernández Javier , Lerosey-Aubril Rudy , Pates Stephen
Published: December 2019

Recent investigations on neurological tissues preserved in Cambrian fossils have clarified the phylogenetic affinities and head segmentation in pivotal members of stem-group Euarthropoda. However, palaeoneuroanatomical features are often incomplete or described from single exceptional specimens, raising concerns about the morphological interpretation of fossilized neurological structures and their significance for early euarthropod evolution. Here, we describe the central nervous system (CNS) of the short great-appendage euarthropodAlalcomenaeusbased on material from two Cambrian Burgess Shale-type deposits of the American Great Basin, the Pioche Formation (Stage 4) and the Marjum Formation (Drumian). The specimens reveal complementary ventral and lateral views of the CNS, preserved as a dark carbonaceous compression throughout the body. The head features a dorsal brain connected to four stalked ventral eyes, and four pairs of segmental nerves. The first to seventh trunk tergites overlie a ventral nerve cord with seven ganglia, each associated with paired sets of segmental nerve bundles. Posteriorly, the nerve cord features elongate thread-like connectives. The Great Basin fossils strengthen the original description—and broader evolutionary implications—of the CNS inAlalcomenaeusfrom the early Cambrian (Stage 3) Chengjiang deposit of South China. The spatio-temporal recurrence of fossilized neural tissues in Cambrian Konservat-Lagerstätten across North America (Pioche, Burgess Shale, Marjum) and South China (Chengjiang, Xiaoshiba) indicates that their preservation is consistent with the mechanism of Burgess Shale-type fossilization, without the need to invoke alternative taphonomic pathways or the presence of microbial biofilms.
Cep57 and Cep57l1 cooperate to recruit the Cep63-Cep152 complex for centriole biogenesis
Authors: Zhao Huijie , Yang Sen , Duan Xiaomeng , Chen Qingxia , Li Guoqing , Huang Qiongping , Zhu Xueliang , Yan Xiumin
Published: December 2019

Cep152 and Cep63 act as the cradle and recruit Plk4 to initiate the centriole biogenesis in a mother centriole dependent manner. However, how the Cep152-Cep63 complex is targeted to the proximal end of mother centrioles is unclear. In this study, we show that Cep57 and its paralog, Cep57l1, colocalize with Cep63 and Cep152 at the proximal end of mother centrioles in both cycling cells and differentiated multiciliated cells. Both Cep57 and Cep57l1 associate with the Cep152-Cep63 complex by directly binding to the centrosomal targeting region of Cep63. Co-depletion of Cep57 and Cep57l1 blocks the loading of Cep63-Cep152 to the centriole and subsequently prevents centriole duplication. We propose that Cep57 and Cep57l1 act together to ensure the recruitment of the Cep63-Cep152 complex to the mother centrioles for procentriole formation.

Summary statement

Cep57 and its paralog, Cep57l1, cooperatively act as a molecular scaffold to recruit the Cep63-Cep152 cradle to the proximal end of centrioles in the early stages of centriole duplication.
Subcellular localization of glypican-5 associates with dynamic cell motility and cell communication of the human mesenchymal stem cell line U3DT
Authors: Takeuchi Masao , Takeuchi Kikuko , Monobe Yoko , Takai Tomoyo , Yamaguchi Ritsuko , Takeuchi Jun K. , Akagi Ken-ichi
Published: December 2019

Glypican-5 (GPC5) is a heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) localized to the plasma membrane. We previously reported that in the human mesenchymal stem cell line UE6E7T3, GPC5 is overexpressed in association with transformation and promotes cell proliferation by acting as a co-receptor for Sonic hedgehog signaling. In this study, we found using an immunofluorescence microscopy that in transformed cells (U3DT), GPC5 localized not only at primary cilia on the cell surface, but also at the leading edge of migrating cells, at the intercellular bridge and blebs during cytokinesis, and in extracellular vesicles. In each subcellular region, GPC5 colocalized with the small GTPase Rab11. These observations suggest that the colocalization of GPC5 with Rab11 is crucial for its function, and that its activity in each subcellular compartment promotes proliferation of U3DT cells. Our findings indicate that GPC5 plays active and essential roles in regulation of U3DT cell proliferation, and provides several insights into the functions of GPC5 that could be elucidated by future studies.
Reward modulates behaviour and neural responses in motor cortex during action observation
Authors: Cretu Andreea Loredana , Lehner Rea , Polania Rafael , Wenderoth Nicole
Published: December 2019

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies demonstrated that observing the actions of other individuals leads to action-specific facilitation of primary motor cortex (M1) (i.e., “motor resonance”). Motor resonance is modulated by contextual information accompanying others’ actions, however, it is currently unknown whether action value influences behavioural and physiological outcomes during action observation in humans. Here we tested whether response times (RT) and muscle-specific changes of M1 excitability are modulated by the value an observer assigns to the action executed by another agent and whether this effect can be distinguished from attentional engagement. We show that observing highly-valued actions leads to a significant decrease in RT variability and a significant strengthening of action-specific neural representations in M1. This “sharpening” of behavioural and neural responses was observed over and beyond a control task requiring similar attentional engagement but did not include any rewards. Our finding that reward influences action specific representations in human M1 even if no motor response is required is new, suggesting that reward influences the transformation of action stimuli from the perceptual to the motor domain. We suggest that premotor areas are important for mediating the observed effect, most likely by optimizing grasp-specific PMv-M1 interactions which cause muscular facilitation patterns in M1 to be more distinct for rewarded actions.
Anesthetic agents affect urodynamic parameters and anesthetic depth at doses necessary to facilitate preclinical testing in felines
Authors: Xu Jiajie Jessica , Yousuf Zuha , Ouyang Zhonghua , Kennedy Eric , Lester Patrick A. , Martin Tara , Bruns Tim M.
Published: December 2019

Urodynamic studies, used to understand bladder function, diagnose bladder disease, and develop treatments for dysfunctions, are ideally performed with awake subjects. However, in animal models, especially cats (a common model of spinal cord injury and associated bladder pathology), anesthesia is often required for these procedures and can be a research confounder. This study compared the effects of select agents (dexmedetomidine, alfaxalone, propofol, isoflurane, and α-chloralose) on urodynamic (Δpressure, bladder capacity, bladder compliance, non-voiding contractions, bladder pressure slopes) and anesthetic (change in heart rate [ΔHR], average heart rate [HR], reflexes, induction/recovery times) parameters in repeated cystometrograms across five adult male cats. Δpressure was greatest with propofol, bladder capacity was highest with α-chloralose, non-voiding contractions were greatest with α-chloralose. Propofol and dexmedetomidine had the highest bladder pressure slopes during the initial and final portions of the cystometrograms respectively. Cats progressed to a deeper plane of anesthesia (lower HR, smaller ΔHR, decreased reflexes) under dexmedetomidine, compared to propofol and alfaxalone. Time to induction was shortest with propofol, and time to recovery was shortest with dexmedetomidine. These agent-specific differences in urodynamic and anesthetic parameters in cats will facilitate appropriate study-specific anesthetic choices.