bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin cancer in organ transplant recipients: dynamics in the incidence and clinical predictors for the first and subsequent post‐transplant non‐melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Hartmann J. , Schüler S. , Enk A.H. , Lonsdorf A.S.
Published: February 2019

Background

Risk factors for primary non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in organ transplant recipients (OTR) have been well described. Data for subsequent NMSC and dynamics in their occurrence in OTR are limited.

Objective

To study long‐term risks of primary and subsequent NMSC and associated risk factors in OTR.

Methods

A retrospective single‐centre cohort study analysing medical records from a dermato‐oncological specialty clinic.

Results

Of 464 OTR 110 (23.7%) developed at least one, 73 (15.7%) two and 51 (11%) three NMSC during a median follow‐up of 9.6 years. Cumulative incidences at 5, 10 and 15 years were 14.7%, 23.5% and 34.5% for the first and 75.8%, 86.5% and 93.3% for the second. Median time‐to‐diagnosis declined from 22 years (95% CI 19–25) to 2 years (1–3) and about 1 year (0–2) for the first, second and third NMSC. Risk for subsequent NMSC only partially related to risk factors for the primary NMSC. Histologic type of the first NMSC predicted subtype and time‐to‐diagnosis of the subsequent NMSC.

Conclusions

A first post‐transplant NMSC, particularly a SCC, confers a high risk for subsequent NMSC arising with accelerated dynamics. Risk‐adapted dermato‐oncologic surveillance is advisable for all OTR.
Influence of feed ration size on somatic and muscle growth in landlocked dwarf and farmed Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Andersen Øivind , Vieira Vera , Dessen Jens‐Erik , Johnston Ian A.
Published: February 2019

We examined the possible adaptation of the dwarf Bleke population of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar from Lake Byglandsfjord in southern Norway to limited food resources. The growth performance and muscle development in juvenile Bleke and farmed S. salar under satiated or restricted (50%) feeding were examined for 10 months, starting 3 weeks after first‐feeding stage. Four‐thousand fish were divided into four replicated groups and random samples of 16–40 fish per group were measured six times during the experiment. The two strains showed no significant difference in mean body mass when fed restricted ration, but the individual variation was considerably higher in the farmed fish. Both Bleke and farmed S. salar grew significantly faster when fed to satiation, but the farmed S. salar showed much higher gain in mass and were three times heavier (201.5 g vs 66.7 g) and possessed twice as many fast muscle fibres (179,682 vs 84,779) compared with landlocked S. salar after 10 months. Farmed fish fed full ration displayed both hypertrophic and hyperplasic muscle growth, while the increased growth in Bleke S. salar was entirely associated with a larger fibre diameter. The landlocked Bleke strain has apparently adapted to low food availability by minimising the metabolic costs of maintenance and growth through reduced dominance hierarchies and by an increase in average muscle fibre diameter relative to the ancestral condition.
Eradication rate of Helicobacter pylori reinfection in Korea: A retrospective study
Authors: Choi Young Kwon , Ahn Ji Yong , Won Sung Hyun , Jung Kyoungwon , Na Hee Kyong , Jung Kee Wook , Kim Do Hoon , Lee Jeong Hoon , Choi Kee Don , Song Ho June , Lee Gin Hyug , Jung Hwoon‐Yong
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim

Guidelines for selecting the eradication regimen for Helicobacter pylori reinfection remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the eradication rate of H. pylori reinfection in patients with a previous infection successfully eradicated with index triple therapy.

Methods

This was a single‐center, retrospective case–control study. A total of 10 468 H. pylori‐infected patients treated with proton‐pump inhibitor‐based triple eradication therapy at a tertiary medical institution between 2005 and 2016 were enrolled. We reviewed the medical records of the enrolled patients and compared the treatment outcomes in those with H. pylori reinfection after a successful eradication.

Results

Helicobacter pylori infection was successfully eradicated with the index triple therapy in 7770 patients (74.2%). Among 3567 patients followed up for > 1 year, H. pylori reinfection occurred in 420 (11.8%; 3.06% per person‐year) during a median follow‐up of 39.1 months (interquartile range, 23.5–58.7 months). Of these patients, 164 received eradication therapy for reinfection (triple therapy in 102 and quadruple therapy in 62) and had follow‐up data. Triple therapy showed an eradication rate of 78.4% for H. pylori reinfection, which was not significantly different from that of the index triple therapy (P = 0.394). Quadruple therapy for reinfection exhibited a better eradication rate (87.1%) than triple therapy but without statistical significance (P = 0.237).

Conclusions

Retreatment with triple therapy for H. pylori reinfection after successful eradication of prior infection showed comparable outcomes to the index triple therapy. Bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy for reinfection tended to have a better eradication rate than did triple therapy.
The Impact of a Community‐Based Serious Illness Care Program on Healthcare Utilization and Patient Care Experience
Authors: Daaleman Timothy P. , Ernecoff Natalie C. , Kistler Christine E. , Reid Alfred , Reed David , Hanson Laura C.
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE

Healthcare organizations are expanding community‐based serious illness care programs to deliver care for homebound patients. Programs typically focus on home‐based primary care or home‐based palliative care, yet this population may require both services. We developed and evaluated a primary and palliative care program serving seriously ill older adults, called the Reaching Out to Enhance the Health of Adults in Their Communities and Homes (REACH) program. Our objective was to determine the impact of the REACH program on healthcare utilization and the patient care experience.

DESIGN

Case study using medical record review and telephone interviews.

SETTING

Home‐based serious illness care program in central North Carolina.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients enrolled in the REACH program from August 2014 to March 2016 (n = 159).

INTERVENTION

Home‐based primary and palliative care delivered by an interdisciplinary team for seriously ill older adults.

MEASUREMENTS

Structured medical record review including demographics, health and functional status, and acute hospitalization and emergency department (ED) visits in the 12 months preceding and following initiation of the REACH program. A convenience sample of participants completed telephone interviews that measured the quality‐of‐care experience and quality of communication.

RESULTS

REACH patients had a 43% reduction in hospital visits and a 25% reduction in ED visits. Participants in telephone interviews reported a high‐quality care experience and very good quality of communication with REACH providers.

CONCLUSION

A care model that integrates home‐based primary care and palliative care has the potential to reduce health service utilization and enhance the care experience for older patients with serious illness. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:825–830, 2019.
The Effect of Multidomain Lifestyle Intervention on Daily Functioning in Older People
Authors: Kulmala Jenni , Ngandu Tiia , Havulinna Satu , Levälahti Esko , Lehtisalo Jenni , Solomon Alina , Antikainen Riitta , Laatikainen Tiina , Pippola Pauliina , Peltonen Markku , Rauramaa Rainer , Soininen Hilkka , Strandberg Timo , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Kivipelto Miia
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of a 2‐year multidomain lifestyle intervention on daily functioning of older people.

DESIGN

A 2‐year randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01041989).

SETTING

Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1260 older adults, with a mean age of 69 years at the baseline, who were at risk of cognitive decline.

INTERVENTION

A multidomain intervention, including simultaneous physical activity intervention, nutritional counseling, vascular risk monitoring and management, and cognitive training and social activity.

MEASUREMENTS

The ability to perform daily activities (activities of daily living [ADLs] and instrumental ADLs) and physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery).

RESULTS

The mean baseline ADL score was 18.1 (SD = 2.6) points; the scale ranges from 17 (no difficulties) to 85 (total ADL dependence). During the 2‐year intervention, the ADL disability score slightly increased in the control group, while in the intervention group, it remained relatively stable. Based on the latent growth curve model, the difference in the change between the intervention and control groups was −0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.61 to −0.28) after 1 year and −1.20 (95% CI = −2.02 to −0.38) after 2 years. In terms of physical performance, the intervention group had a slightly higher probability of improvement (from score 3 to score 4; P = .041) and a lower probability of decline (from score 3 to scores 0‐2; P = .043) for chair rise compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

A 2‐year lifestyle intervention was able to maintain the daily functioning of the at‐risk older population. The clinical significance of these results in this fairly well‐functioning population remains uncertain, but the study results hold promise that healthy eating, exercise, and cognitive and social activity may have favorable effects on functional independence in older people.
Higher diet quality in university students is associated with higher academic achievement: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Whatnall M. C. , Patterson A. J. , Burrows T. L. , Hutchesson M. J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Unhealthy diets are typical of university students and the effects may be wider reaching than health. The present study aimed to describe the association between dietary intake and academic achievement in a sample of Australian university students.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis of data from an online survey of 278 students from the University of Newcastle (UON), Australia [mean (SD) age 26.9 (10.5) years; 70.9% female] was conducted. Dietary intake, in terms of diet quality score [Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS)], including individual sub‐scales, and percentage energy per day from energy‐dense nutrient poor (EDNP) foods, including individual sub‐groups, was assessed using the validated Australian Eating Survey Food Frequency Questionnaire, and academic achievement was assessed as self‐reported grade point average (GPA). The association between GPA and dietary intake was explored using linear regression, with adjustment for socio‐demographic and student characteristics.

Results

Higher GPA was associated with higher diet quality (ARFS) (β = 0.02, P = 0.011), higher sub‐scale scores for vegetables (β = 0.03, P = 0.026) and fruit (β = 0.05, P = 0.029) and with lower percentage energy per day from EDNP foods overall (β = −0.01, P = 0.047) and also from sweetened drinks (β = −0.06, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of the present study demonstrate small associations between a healthier dietary intake and higher academic achievement, as well as vice versa. Given that the associations were small, they may not be particularly meaningful. However, this evidence could be used as a motivator for efforts aiming to improve dietary intake among university students.
The efficacy of powdered polydioxanone in terms of collagen production compared with poly‐L‐lactic acid in a murine model
Authors: Kim Chang Min , Kim Bo Young , Hye Suh Dong , Lee Sang Jun , Moon Hye Rim , Ryu Hwa Jung
Published: February 2019

Background

There are many collagen‐stimulating fillers, including calcium hydroxyapatite, polycaprolactone (PCL), and poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA), and other materials have been tested. Polydioxanone (PDO) has recently been used as absorbable thread‐lifting material due to its collagen‐forming effects. PDO in powdered form is expected to be a good material for collagen‐producing fillers.

Objectives

To evaluate the collagen‐producing effects of powdered PDO injection compared with PLLA injection in a murine model.

Materials and Methods

Powdered PDO mixed with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, PLLA, and phosphate‐buffered saline was injected on dorsal skin of 8‐week‐old rat. Tissue samples were obtained 1, 2, and 12 weeks after the procedures for histopathologic review and for real‐time PCR to quantify collagen and tissue growth factors.

Results

Both PLLA and powdered PDO injections induced granulomatous reactions. Collagen type 1, collagen type 3, TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2, and TGF‐β3 showed increases 2 weeks after injection but decreased 12 weeks after injection for both powdered PDO and PLLA.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that powdered PDO injection induces collagen formation more effectively than PLLA injection. Therefore, PDO can be a good option for forming collagen.
Attitudes towards Trump Policies and Climate Change: The Key Roles of Aversion to Wealth Redistribution and Political Interest
Authors: Panno Angelo , Carrus Giuseppe , Leone Luigi
Published: February 2019

Both psychological and political science researchers have pointed out that Trump policies embrace right wing and authoritarian dispositions. In turn, such dispositions have been related to climate change denial and aversion to wealth redistribution. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the relationship between individuals’ favorable attitude towards Trump and climate change skepticism. We aimed to understand two cruxes in this relationship: (i) whether the favorable attitude towards Trump influences climate change skepticism through the aversion to wealth redistribution and (ii) whether people's interest in politics interacts in the relationships between attitude towards Trump and two social outcomes—climate change denial and aversion to wealth redistribution. We considered a representative sample of the US electorate (ANES 2016 database, N = 4271), assessing attitudes towards Trump by aggregating several indicators concerning respondents’ evaluations of Trump. Interest in politics, aversion to wealth redistribution, and climate change skepticism had also been assessed. Results showed that favorable attitudes towards Trump related to climate change denial through the aversion to wealth redistribution. Moreover, the link between such attitudes and both climate change skepticism and aversion to wealth redistribution was stronger for people showing a greater interest in politics.
Improving repair sequence scheduling methods for postdisaster critical infrastructure systems
Authors: Xu Min , Ouyang Min , Mao Zijun , Xu Xiaolin
Published: February 2019

The recovery process of postdisaster critical infrastructure systems (CISs) includes multiple phases, among which the repair phase usually takes the longest time and contributes the largest to system recovery rapidity and system resilience. This article formulates the repair sequence scheduling problem for damaged CIS components under limited repair resources in a general form, and then proposes two novel heuristic methods to enhance its solution performance. To demonstrate the efficiencies of the two proposed methods, typical existing methods are also briefly introduced for comparison purposes, including three component importance‐based methods (CIBMs), a genetic algorithm‐based method (GABM), a time index‐based heuristic method (TIBHM), and a component index‐based exact solution method (CIBESM). Those methods are separately applied into thousands of damage scenarios for three systems, and are then compared in terms of the optimality gap and the computational cost. Results show that the two proposed methods have significantly better performance than existing methods, whereas the first proposed method can be adapted for critical time points‐based resilience assessment and optimization, and the second proposed method can be applied to the recovery of large‐scale CISs with extensive disruptions.
A mutant bacteriophage evolved to infect resistant bacteria gained a broader host range
Authors: Habusha Michal , Tzipilevich Elhanan , Fiyaksel Osher , Ben‐Yehuda Sigal
Published: February 2019

Bacteriophages (phages) are the most abundant entities in nature, yet little is known about their capacity to acquire new hosts and invade new niches. By exploiting the Gram‐positive soil bacterium Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and its lytic phage SPO1 as a model, we followed the coevolution of bacteria and phages. After infection, phage‐resistant bacteria were readily isolated. These bacteria were defective in production of glycosylated wall teichoic acid (WTA) polymers that served as SPO1 receptor. Subsequently, a SPO1 mutant phage that could infect the resistant bacteria evolved. The emerging phage contained mutations in two genes, encoding the baseplate and fibers required for host attachment. Remarkably, the mutant phage gained the capacity to infect non‐host Bacillus species that are not infected by the wild‐type phage. We provide evidence that the evolved phage lost its dependency on the species‐specific glycosylation pattern of WTA polymers. Instead, the mutant phage gained the capacity to directly adhere to the WTA backbone, conserved among different species, thereby crossing the species barrier.
Compensatory renal hypertrophy following nephrectomy: When and how?
Authors: Rojas‐Canales Darling M , Li Jordan Y , Makuei Leek , Gleadle Jonathan M
Published: February 2019

Following surgical removal of one kidney, the other enlarges and increases its function. The mechanism for the sensing of this change and the growth is incompletely understood but begins within days and compensatory renal hypertrophy (CRH) is the dominant contributor to the growth. In many individuals undergoing nephrectomy for cancer or kidney donation this produces a substantial and helpful increase in renal function. Two main mechanisms have been proposed, one in which increased activity by the remaining kidney leads to hypertrophy, the second in which there is release of a kidney specific factor in response to a unilateral nephrectomy that initiates CRH. Whilst multiple growth factors and pathways such as the mTORC pathway have been implicated in experimental studies, their roles and the precise mechanism of CRH are not defined. Unrestrained hypoxia inducible factor activation in renal cancer promotes growth and may play an important role in driving CRH.
Making Information on CSR Scores Salient: A Randomized Field Experiment
Authors: Becchetti Leonardo , Salustri Francesco , Scaramozzino Pasquale
Published: February 2019

We locate a giant ‘school report‐like’ scorecard poster with domain‐specific social and environmental responsibility scores of the ten leading world food companies, measured by the Oxfam ‘Behind the Brands’ world campaign, at the entrance of selected supermarkets. We test the impact of these scores on consumers’ choices by means of a randomized field experiment. Our findings show that the Oxfam ranking matters since the treatment has a positive and significant effect on the market share of the companies with the highest scores and a negative and significant effect on the companies placed at the lowest ranks. Invisibility matters too, with the largest non‐ranked companies selling in the store experiencing a slight fall in their market shares.
BRAF V600E expression in ameloblastomas—A 36‐patient cohort from Helsinki University Hospital
Authors: Kelppe Jetta , Thorén Hanna , Ristimäki Ari , Haglund Caj , Sorsa Timo , Hagström Jaana
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We aimed to investigate BRAF V600E percentage immunohistochemically in ameloblastomas of a single institute cohort. We were interested if age, location, histological properties, or tumor recurrence depend on the BRAF status.

Subjects, materials and methods

We had 36 formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded ameloblastoma tissue samples of patients treated at the Helsinki University Hospital between the years 1983–2016. Tissue sections underwent immunohistochemistry by Ventana BenchMark XT immunostainer using Ms Anti‐Braf V600E (VE1) MAB. We used R 3.4.2 and RStudio 1.1.383 to conduct statistical analysis for BRAF positivity and earlier onset as well as tumor location. We used chi‐squared tests and 2‐by‐2 table functions to determine connections between BRAF positivity and recurrence, growth pattern, and type.

Results

BRAF‐positive tumors occurred in younger patients compared to BRAF‐negative tumors (p = 0.015) and they located mostly to the mandible (p < 0.001). Growth patterns were limited to two in BRAF‐negative tumors when BRAF‐positive tumors presented with one to four growth patterns (p = 0.02). None of the maxillary tumors showed BRAF positivity and of these, 72.2% recurred.

Conclusions

An immunohistochemical BRAF marker could be a beneficial tool to predict the outcome of patients with this aggressive, easily recurring tumor.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in odontogenic keratocyst keratinocytes
Authors: Yang Shao-Bin , Pang Bao-Xing , Xue Jiao , Yuan Rong-Tao
Published: February 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate on the proliferation and apoptosis of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) keratinocytes in vitro.

Materials and methods

Keratinocytes isolated from the epithelial lining of the OKC were cultured in keratinocyte serum‐free medium and identified by CK10, CK14, pan‐cytokeratin and vimentin immunofluorescence staining. The cells were exposed to EGCG at different concentrations, and proliferation inhibition was measured by cell counting kit 8 assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry, and expression of the WNT signalling pathway‐related proteins FZD3 and JNK3 was detected by quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting. Human oral keratinocytes (HOKs) were used as the control.

Results

The OKC keratinocytes were successfully cultured. The primary cells were tile‐like and expressed the epithelial biomarkers CK10, CK14 and pan‐cytokeratin. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate inhibited cell proliferation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, arrested cell cycle in the G1 phase and induced apoptosis of OKC keratinocytes. FZD3 and JNK3 were overexpressed in OKC keratinocytes compared with HOKs and were downregulated by epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate treatment.

Conclusion

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in OKC keratinocytes, possibly by suppressing the WNT/JNK signalling pathway. It may thus be potentially used for OKC treatment.
World Workshop on Oral Medicine VII: Non‐opioid pain management of head and neck chemo/radiation‐induced mucositis: A systematic review
Authors: Christoforou Janina , Karasneh Jumana , Manfredi Maddalena , Dave Bella , Walker Jennifer S. , Dios Pedro Diz , Epstein Joel , Kumar Navdeep , Glick Michael , Lockhart Peter B. , Patton Lauren L.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To evaluate the current evidence regarding the effectiveness of non‐opioid interventions for the therapeutic management of pain in head and neck cancer patients with oral mucositis resulting from radiotherapy only or chemoradiotherapy.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was conducted which included randomised controlled trials that assessed patient‐related outcome of pain in patients with oral mucositis associated with radiation therapy only or chemoradiotherapy. Literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE via Pubmed, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL.

Results

The electronic searches identified 846 articles. Screening revealed that six articles met all eligibility inclusion criteria. Interventions showing statistically significant benefits to reduce oral mucositis associated pain compared to placebo included doxepin (p < 0.001, 95% CI −6.7 to −2.1), amitriptyline (p = 0.04), diclofenac (p < 0.01) and benzydamine (p = 0.014).

Conclusions

Non‐opioid interventions, including topical doxepin, amitriptyline, diclofenac and benzydamine, were found to provide relief of pain due to mucositis, and when effective may allow for reduction in the use of opioids in pain management.
Evaluation of care staff knowledge, confidence, motivation and opportunity for preventing falls in residential aged care settings: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Francis‐Coad Jacqueline , Hang Jo‐Aine , Etherton‐Beer Christopher , Ellis Alexandra , Hill Anne‐Marie
Published: February 2019

Aims

To explore care staff knowledge about falls and confidence, motivation and opportunity to undertake fall prevention strategies, in residential aged care (RAC) along with preferences for fall prevention education.

Background

Falls account for the majority of adverse clinical events in RAC settings. Care staff in RAC settings are in a key position to influence residents’ actions to prevent falls, provided they have the necessary knowledge and skills.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey design with a purposive sample of 147 care staff at eight RAC facilities was undertaken in 2015. A custom‐designed questionnaire examining knowledge, confidence, motivation and opportunity to undertake falls prevention strategies was used.

Results

Only 39 (26.5%) care staff were aware that the residents they cared for were at high risk of falls. Care staff knowledge of intrinsic falls risk factors was very limited, for example, only 18 (13.53%) observed for side effects of medication and just four (1.04%) were aware of continence issues. Conflicting duties also limited care staff time to undertake falls prevention strategies. Preferences for falls prevention education indicated face‐to‐face interactive discussions in the workplace (n = 98, [66.7%]) with reminder posters displayed around the facility (n = 80, [70.8%]).

Conclusions

Residential aged care organisations need to engage with care staff to provide tailored falls education incorporating learning preferences and targeting knowledge gaps, to improve awareness of intrinsic risk factor impact and uptake of evidence‐based prevention strategies. Despite care staff being highly motivated, they have limited opportunity to assist residents with fall prevention within their workload. RAC management and funding bodies must address opportunity for care staff to fulfil this crucial role to benefit resident safety.

Implication for practice

This study identified gaps in care staffs’ knowledge and skills in undertaking falls prevention strategies in residential aged care settings. These findings will assist residential aged care organisations and health professional educators to design evidence‐based falls prevention education tailored to their care staffs' needs and preferences to facilitate adoption.
Surgically Relevant Morphological Parameters of Proximal Human Femur: A Statistical Analysis Based on 3D Reconstruction of CT Data
Authors: Soodmand Ehsan , Zheng Guoyan , Steens Wolfram , Bader Rainer , Nolte Lutz , Kluess Daniel
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Recently, more accurate description of the femoral geometry has become of interest to engineers and orthopedic surgeons. However, an appropriate database is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present morphological parameters and their correlations, which are relevant for medical issues such as impingement after total hip replacement, as well as for implant design and the etiology of hip fractures.

Methods

We investigated 12 well‐known morphological parameters of the femur in 169 healthy human subjects through evaluation of 3D‐reconstructed CT scans. Pearson's coefficients of correlations were calculated using a statistical t‐test method for each pair of parameters.

Results

The mean, maximum, minimum, median, and standard deviation values are reported for all parameters. Histograms showing the distribution of each morphological parameter are also presented. It is shown that absolute and horizontal offsets, total femur length, and NCVD parameters are normally distributed, but NCDF and NCDS are not. Furthermore, an inter‐correlation matrix was reported to reveal statistical correlations between these parameters. The strongest positive correlation existed between absolute offset (OSA) and horizontal offset (OSH), while the least positive correlation was found between NCDF and total femur length (TFL), and also between NCDS and NCDF. Anteversion angle (ATA) and OSA showed the least negative correlation. However, the strongest negative correlation was found between neck‐shaft angle (NSA) and greater trochanter height (GTH), as well as between OSA and NCVD.

Conclusions

Comprehending patients’ native bone morphology, including the variations and correlations, is essential for orthopedic surgeons to undertake preoperative planning and surgery as well as to appropriately design medical devices. Thus, more population‐based detailed databases are necessary. We investigated an extensive set of proximal femoral morphology parameters using a statistically standardized method to expand the existing knowledge. The results of our study can be used for diverse medical and biomechanical purposes.
V‐Y Tendon Plasty for Reconstruction of Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Medium‐term and Long‐term Follow‐up
Authors: Lin Yang‐jing , Duan Xiao‐jun , Yang Liu
Published: February 2019

Objective

To evaluate the surgical results of V‐Y tendon plasty in the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture during medium and long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

Between June 2005 and September 2017, 20 patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture underwent V‐Y tendon plasty in our hospital. The mean injury‐to‐surgery time was 20.4 weeks (range, 4–96 weeks). The Matles test and an improved Thompson test was used to examine Achilles tendon rupture. These patients were not able to stand on the tiptoes of the injured lower extremity. X‐ray tests ruled out the chance of fracture and were used to examine the Kager triangle. MRI was used to confirm the final diagnosis. The function of the ankle and the foot was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS). V‐Y tendon plasty for Achilles tendon reconstruction was performed. A below‐knee cast was used to keep the ankle in plantar flexion (up to 20°) for 4 weeks. Non‐weight‐bearing exercise was allowed with crutches. After 4 weeks, partial weight‐bearing was allowed. Physical exercises were performed under rehabilitation guidelines. At 10–12 weeks postoperation, patients began to return to daily life activity levels without restrictions. Preoperative and postoperative MRI was obtained.

Results

The mean follow‐up period was 32.8 months. The mean operative gap of the Achilles tendon after debridement was 5 cm (range, 4–9 cm), with 85% of the gap less than or equal to 6 cm. The mean AOFAS score increased from 59.25 ± 12.28 preoperatively to 96.55 ± 3.75 at final follow‐up (P < 0.05). The mean ATRS score increased from 39.55 ± 14.21 preoperatively to 94.05 ± 4.89 at final follow‐up (P < 0.05). All patients had no recurrent Achilles tendon rupture during the follow up. No patient had developed serious complications, such as sural nerve injury or deep vein thrombosis. Patients were able to return to daily life activity levels without restrictions. At the latest follow‐up, all patients were able to perform repetitive single heel rise on the involved limb, and to walk without a visible limp. All of the postoperative MRI showed the continuity of the Achilles tendon with no signs of cysts or inflammation, indicating perfect healing at the final follow‐up.

Conclusions

V‐Y tendon plasty can be used in most cases of chronic Achilles tendon rupture. It yields satisfactory functional results and low complication rates. The advantage of this procedure is that it is an easy and economic method without the need for expensive synthetic implants. V‐Y tendon plasty should be considered an acceptable first‐choice treatment.
ABCA12 homozygous mutation in harlequin ichthyosis: Survival without systemic retinoids
Authors: Sharma Amit , Rozzelle Arlene , Jahnke Marla N. , Desai Jagdish , Shwayder Tor A. , Kisseih Esther , Bryant Justin R. , Agarwal Prashant
Published: February 2019

Harlequin ichthyosis (HI) is associated with high mortality. Early systemic retinoids are widely used, although their use remains debatable. We reported two neonates with homozygous mutations in ABCA12 consistent with harlequin ichthyosis who survived to discharge home with intensive care and without use of systemic retinoids.
Treatment of severe pediatric atopic dermatitis with methotrexate: A retrospective review
Authors: Anderson Kathryn , Putterman Elana , Rogers Rachel S. , Patel Deepa , Treat James R. , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie
Published: February 2019

Background/Objectives

Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) may require systemic immunomodulatory agents to control symptoms. A lack of evidence and guidelines for systemic AD therapy in children has led to variability in agents selected and uncertainty in their comparative efficacy and safety. Evaluation of the efficacy of methotrexate in children with severe AD was performed.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of 55 pediatric patients seen at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia that measured improvement using the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), a scale that rates AD symptoms from 0 to 5.

Results

About 76% of patients showed improvement with methotrexate. Mean baseline IGA of all patients was 4.18. After 6‐9 months of treatment, this improved to 2.94. There was additional improvement to a mean IGA score of 2.39 after 12‐15 months of treatment. At the final visit before each patient stopped methotrexate, the mean IGA score was 2.71. Approximately 50% of patients experienced minor side effects with gastrointestinal side effects the most common.

Conclusions

In a diverse patient population, safety and efficacy of methotrexate was demonstrated. Significant improvement in IGA was noted for the majority after 6‐9 months of therapy with further improvement when continuing treatment to 12‐15 months. Methotrexate remains an important option for long‐term symptom control with a favorable side effect profile and low cost.
Histological significance of hepatitis‐like findings in biliary atresia: An analysis of 34 Japanese cases
Authors: Suda Kazuto , Muraji Toshihiro , Ohtani Haruo , Aiyoshi Tsubasa , Sasaki Takato , Toma Miki , Yanai Toshihiro
Published: February 2019

Background

Hepatocellular injury including multinuclear changes are common histological features in biliary atresia (BA), as well as in neonatal hepatitis. To date, however, no reports have examined how those findings correlate with the prognosis of BA. We clarified the clinical implications of hepatitis‐related changes in BA on histological analysis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 34 cases of BA treated over the past 30 years at Ibaraki Children's Hospital. Liver biopsy specimens during Kasai procedures were evaluated for hepatocyte multinuclear change, ballooning, and acidophilic body, hereby defined as hepatitis‐like findings (HLF). Each finding was semi‐quantitatively scored as 0–2, and their sum was defined as the HLF score, ranging from 0 to 6. We examined the correlation between HLF score and total bilirubin (T‐Bil), direct bilirubin (D‐Bil), and other liver function test results at the Kasai procedure, as well as 1 week, and 1, 3, and 6 months after the Kasai procedure. Subsequently, HLF score was compared between native liver survivors (NLS; n = 16) and non‐NLS (n = 18) for long‐term analyses.

Results

Hepatitis‐like findings score except for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), had no correlation with the preoperative data. HLF score was positively correlated, however, with T‐Bil, D‐Bil, and AST at 1 week and 1 month after the Kasai procedure (1 week: P = 0.009, 0.023, and 0.019; 1 month: 0.022, 0.019, and 0.013, respectively). HLF score was not significantly different between the NLS and non‐NLS groups.

Conclusion

Higher HLF score at Kasai procedure is an indicator of poor liver function at short‐term follow up.
Mixed pleomorphic lobular and apocrine carcinoma of the breast: A case report suggesting pathogenesis
Authors: Ishii Akiko , Oishi Takuma , Kakuda Yuko , Yasui Haruna , Kawata Takuya , Muramatsu Koji , Takahashi Kaoru , Sugino Takashi
Published: February 2019

Pleomorphic lobular carcinoma (PLC) of the breast is a variant of lobular carcinoma, characterized by loss of E‐cadherin expression and high‐grade morphologies. Whether the pathogenesis of PLC is in the ductal or the lobular lineage has been discussed. In this report, a case of PLC combined with apocrine carcinoma is presented. Histologically, the tumor showed two distinct carcinoma components: one was a typical apocrine carcinoma, and the other was a pleomorphic invasive lobular carcinoma. The former showed complete membranous expression of E‐cadherin, whereas the latter aberrantly expressed it not on the cell membrane, but in the cytoplasm. Both components were triple‐negative and strongly positive for GCDFP‐15, suggesting apocrine differentiation. The intraductal component showed only a feature of apocrine ductal carcinoma in situ. This case suggests that apocrine carcinoma could be an origin of PLC.
The States Come Marching In: Examining State Agency Influence on Federal Rules
Authors: Cook Jeffrey J.
Published: February 2019

Amidst congressional gridlock, administrative rulemaking is the main pathway for environmental policy making. Scholars have assessed the role of the institutions of government (the president, Congress, and the courts) and key interest groups (i.e., business and environmental interests) in shaping rulemaking outcomes. What is missing from this literature is an assessment of the role of key implementers, state environmental agencies. This research fills this gap by assessing the role and impact of state government agencies in three case studies of rulemaking at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Based on original interviews and a public comment analysis, this research suggests that state agencies play an active and influential role in EPA rulemaking. And, in some cases, state agencies wield more influence than other interest groups. Interviewees argued that this influence stems from these agencies’ unique voice as an implementation collaborator. As a result, researchers should incorporate an assessment of the role of these interests to more effectively explain regulatory outcomes at the EPA and potentially across the bureaucracy.
Multimedia learning trumps retrieval practice in psychology teaching
Authors: Jägerskog Ann‐Sofie , Jönsson Fredrik U. , Selander Staffan , Jonsson Bert
Published: February 2019

It is well established that studying with (vs. without) visual illustrations as well as taking tests (vs. restudying) is beneficial for learning, but on which strategy should one put the efforts, or should they be combined for best learning? Eighty‐eight upper secondary school students were given a brief lecture presented verbally (6 classes) or with the aid of a visual illustration (visuoverbal, 6 classes). The information was processed again by taking a memory test or by restudying. Recall and transfer tests were conducted after some few minutes and again after one week. The visuoverbal lecture resulted in better learning than verbal presentation only. A significant study strategy by retention interval interaction was found. However, this interaction was not qualified by a testing effect. Hence, taking tests (retrieval practice) did not lead to better learning than restudying. It was concluded that it is worthwhile to use visual illustrations in teaching. However, the present study did not reveal any synergistic effects from the combination of visuoverbal presentation and retrieval practice.
Comparison between 0D and 1D approaches for mechanical dissipation measurement during fatigue tests
Authors: Jongchansitto Pawarut , Douellou Corentin , Preechawuttipong Itthichai , Balandraud Xavier
Published: February 2019

Fatigue in materials is generally associated with the production of heat, leading to the “self‐heating” of the tested material. The associated heat power density, named mechanical dissipation or intrinsic dissipation, can be deduced from the temperature changes captured on the tested specimen's surface by infrared thermography. When mechanical dissipation is spatially homogeneous in the tested specimen, the processing can be performed using a macroscopic approach, also named zero‐dimensional (0D) approach. The latter uses an averaged temperature over the whole specimen's measurement zone. The present study aims to analyse the error generated by the 0D approach in the assessment of mechanical dissipation. This error was measured with respect to a one‐dimensional (1D) approach, which is applicable for longitudinal specimens subjected to uniaxial loading. Experimental tests were performed on pure copper and acrylic glass. A model was also developed to analyse the influence of the material and of the heat exchanges with the specimen's environment. The results obtained show that the error generated by the 0D approach in mechanical dissipation measurement may not be negligible and that attention should be paid to the choice of approach for fatigue analysis.
A randomised controlled trial of bag–valve–mask teaching techniques
Authors: Strzelecki Charlotte , Shelton Cliff L , Cunningham Jennifer , Dean Charlotte , Naz‐Thomas Sameera , Stocking Katie , Dobson Adam
Published: February 2019

Background

Bag–valve–mask (BVM) ventilation is a vital skill in the management of the collapsed patient; however, the quality of BVM ventilation is a cause for concern. Modified techniques, designed to be easier for the novice practitioner, offer an opportunity to improve quality. One such modification is the ‘LASOO’ (Lift, Apply, Slide, Oppose, Observe) approach, which offers theoretical benefits over the traditionally taught ‘CE’ (finger shapes) technique. We conducted a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to determine whether LASOO was superior to CE in terms of tidal volume, when taught to novices in the skills‐lab setting.

We conducted a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to determine whether LASOO was superior to CE in terms of tidal volume, when taught to novices in the skills‐lab setting

Methods

A total of 76 undergraduate health care students received a manikin‐based teaching session on LASOO or CE. They then delivered 20 breaths (10 with each hand) to a modified airway manikin. The primary outcome was mean tidal volume; secondary outcomes were the proportion of breaths that achieved 150‐mL and 400‐mL threshold volumes. Subgroup analyses and statistical modelling were conducted for time‐point, hand dominance and hand size.

Results

The mean tidal volume was 320 mL for CE and 304 mL for LASOO. The median percentage of attempts that exceeded 150 mL was 85 for CE and 82.5 for LASOO. The median percentage of attempts that exceeded 400 mL was 20 for CE and 20 for LASOO. The differences recorded between the techniques were not statistically significant. There was a small, statistically significant increase in tidal volume across both techniques with time‐point and holding the mask with the non‐dominant hand.

Discussion

LASOO is a viable alternative to CE. Educators may opt to teach either or both techniques, allowing students to choose the technique that they prefer.
MyROOT: a method and software for the semiautomatic measurement of primary root length in Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Betegón‐Putze Isabel , González Alejandro , Sevillano Xavier , Blasco‐Escámez David , Caño‐Delgado Ana I.
Published: February 2019

Root analysis is essential for both academic and agricultural research. Despite the great advances in root phenotyping and imaging, calculating root length is still performed manually and involves considerable amounts of labor and time. To overcome these limitations, we developed MyROOT, a software for the semiautomatic quantification of root growth of seedlings growing directly on agar plates. Our method automatically determines the scale from the image of the plate, and subsequently measures the root length of the individual plants. To this aim, MyROOT combines a bottom‐up root tracking approach with a hypocotyl detection algorithm. At the same time as providing accurate root measurements, MyROOT also significantly minimizes the user intervention required during the process. Using Arabidopsis, we tested MyROOT with seedlings from different growth stages and experimental conditions. When comparing the data obtained from this software with that of manual root measurements, we found a high correlation between both methods (R2 = 0.997). When compared with previous developed software with similar features (BRAT and EZ‐Rhizo), MyROOT offered an improved accuracy for root length measurements. Therefore, MyROOT will be of great use to the plant science community by permitting high‐throughput root length measurements while saving both labor and time.
Microbial pathogen primary sequence inversely correlates with blood group antigen immunogenicity
Authors: Baine Ian , Bahar Burak , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Hudson Krystalyn E. , Tormey Christopher A.
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

It is well known that specific groups of patients immunologically respond more readily than others to red blood cell (RBC) antigens. While allogeneic RBC antigen exposure is the primary determinant of alloantibody formation, other variables are also involved. Given the significant primary sequence identity between common RBC and microbial antigens, we hypothesized that certain individuals may be immunologically primed to form RBC alloantibodies via environmental exposure to cross‐reactive microbial epitopes, and that such a correlation may be linked to blood group antigen immunogenicity.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined the relationship between RBC‐microbe peptide homology and the formation of alloantibodies to the most immunogenic RBC antigens, using the BLASTp homology database. Thirteen‐residue peptides centered on the polymorphic amino acids of K, Jka, Lua, E, c, M, C, and S antigens were queried for identity with microbial peptides using the BLASTp database. Results were restricted to bacteria and fungi, with a selective threshold of >80% identity for inclusion, to allow for minor peptide variability.

RESULTS

Significant peptide identity was found between RBC antigens and pathogenic organisms including B. fragilis, P. aeruginosa, and Candida spp., among others. Linear regression and k‐medoids clustering analysis of the microbial genera meeting the inclusion criteria showed a statistically significant inverse correlation with RBC immunogenicity (b = −0.0017, r2 = 0.624 & p = 0.0197), with lower immunogenicity antigens associated with larger number of genera.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings raise a potential relationship between microbial exposure and alloantibody formation, and lead to interesting questions regarding the potential relationship between RBC antigen immunogenicity and microbial prevalence.