bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of different thawing methods on physicochemical properties and structure of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)
Authors: Cai Luyun , Wan Jiangli , Li Xiuxia , Li Jianrong
Published: February 2020

To evaluate the physicochemical properties and structure of thawed fillets, following six treatments were used: conventional thawing, microwave thawing, microwave or ultrasound combined with vacuum thawing, magnetic nanoparticles combined with microwave or far‐infrared thawing. The thawing loss, cooking loss, pH, color, texture change, water‐holding capacity, and water migration of fish fillets were determined. The total volatile base nitrogen and thiobarbituric acid were used to determine the degree of protein degradation and lipid oxidation. Microscope observations and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to observe fiber microstructure. Results indicated that both microwave combined with vacuum thawing and far‐infrared combined with magnetic nanoparticles thawing had desirable physicochemical properties as compared to other thawing methods. The lower total volatile base nitrogen and thiobarbituric acid values had less effect on protein degradation and lipid oxidation of thawing process. Besides, both microwaves combined with vacuum thawing and far‐infrared combined with magnetic nanoparticles thawing samples had no significant difference in immobilized and bond water compared with fresh sample. SEM and microscopic observation showed that the myofibril bundles were arranged regularly and smoothly in microwave combined with vacuum thawing and far‐infrared combined with magnetic nanoparticles thawing samples compared with other thawed methods. Thus, the microwave combined with vacuum thawing and far‐infrared combined with magnetic nanoparticles thawing as potential thawing methods could be used to maintain the quality of thawed fish fillets.

Practical Application

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is a good source of animal protein. The fish needs to be frozen for circulation because of geographical and seasonal factors, so thawing methods can directly affect the quality of thawed fish. The results showed that the microwave combined with vacuum and the magnetic nanoparticles combined with far‐infrared thawing could better maintain the quality of thawed fish.
A Textural and Mineralogical Study of the Shanzhuang Banded Iron Formation, Southeastern Margin of the North China Craton: Implications for the Overprint History of Hydrothermal Alteration and Supergenesis after Mineralization
Authors: ZHANG Yan , YU Xuefeng , PENG Qiming , LI Dapeng , LI Xiaowei , SHEN Kun , ZHANG Shangkun , SHAN Wei
Published: February 2020

The newly discovered Shanzhuang BIF is hosted in the Shancaoyu Formation of the Taishan Group within the Eastern Block, southeastern margin of the North China Craton. The ores can be subdivided into three types in terms of mineral assemblages, corresponding to three types (I, II, III). The element concentration of the type I magnetite is similar to that of the type II magnetite, while the type III magnetite is similar to that of the schist. In general, magnetite and hematite grains from the ores show high concentrations of Mn (1317, 1162 ppm), Co (787, 1023 ppm), Al (2224, 2435 ppm) and Ti (540, 300 ppm), Whereas magnetite is depleted in Si (420 ppm) and hematite enriched in Si (1690 ppm). Detailed petrographic and mineral chemical analysis of magnetite, hematite, amphibole/hornblende and pyroxene, reveals that almost all the minerals occur as subhedral‐anhedral grains with pits and fractures, and the BIF is recrystallized to metamorphic assemblages of high amphibolite facies. Hornblende is highly enriched in Fe, Mg and Ca, but depleted in K and Na, mostly belonging to magnesiohornblende. In addition, the ratios of Mg/(Mg+Fe2+), Fe3+/(Fe3++Fe2+), Si/(Si+Ti+Al) and Al/Si are 0.48–0.64, 0.17–0.36, 0.79–0.88 and 0.14–0.27, respectively. It is suggested that hornblende is neither a typical magmatic origin nor a typical metamorphic. Pyroxene has the characteristics of high Ca and Fe, but low Ti and Al, with end‐member components En, Wo and Fs in the ranges of 25.22–28.64 wt%, 43.71–46.40 wt% and 24.51–27.62 wt%, respectively, belonging to clinopyroxene, and mostly diopside, might be formed during the prograde metamorphism in the absence of H2O. The carbonate such as dolomite‐ankerite series is probably a precursor mineral of the BIF deposit. Mass mineral chemical and structural characteristics indicate that the Shanzhuang iron deposit has been subjected to varying degrees of oxidized hydrothermal superimposed reformation, metamorphism, and supergenesis after mineralization, during which some elements have been migrated in some degree.
Care Transition Decisions After a Fall‐related Emergency Department Visit: A Qualitative Study of Patients’ and Caregivers’ Experiences
Authors: Gettel Cameron J. , Hayes Kelsey , Shield Renee R. , Guthrie Kate M. , Goldberg Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Falls are a leading cause of injury‐related emergency department (ED) visits and may serve as a sentinel event for older adults, leading to physical and psychological injury. Our primary objective was to characterize patient‐ and caregiver‐specific perspectives about care transitions after a fall.

Methods

Using a semistructured interview guide, we conducted in‐depth, qualitative interviews using grounded theory methodology. We included patients enrolled in the Geriatric Acute and Post‐acute Fall Prevention Intervention (GAPcare) trial aged 65 years and older who had an ED visit for a fall and their caregivers. Patients with cognitive impairment (CI) were interviewed in patient–caregiver dyads. Domains assessed included the postfall recovery period, the skilled nursing facility (SNF) placement decision‐making process, and the ease of obtaining outpatient follow‐up. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded and analyzed for a priori and emergent themes.

Results

A total of 22 interviews were completed with 10 patients, eight caregivers, and four patient–caregiver dyads within the 6‐month period after initial ED visits. Patients were on average 83 years old, nine of 14 were female, and two of 14 had CI. Six of 12 caregivers were interviewed in reference to a patient with CI. We identified four overarching themes: 1) the fall as a trigger for psychological and physiological change, 2) SNF placement decision‐making process, 3) direct effect of fall on caregivers, and 4) barriers to receipt of recommended follow‐up.

Conclusions

Older adults presenting to the ED after a fall report physical limitations and a prominent fear of falling after their injury. Caregivers play a vital role in securing the home environment; the SNF placement decision‐making process; and navigating the transition of care between the ED, SNF, and outpatient visits after a fall. Clinicians should anticipate and address feelings of isolation, changes in mobility, and fear of falling in older adults seeking ED care after a fall.
Patterns of polyp histology: predictors of peril in the mucosa
Authors: Dean Meara , Plesec Thomas , Kalady Matthew F. , Church James
Published: February 2020

Background

Precursor colonic polyps of varied subtypes correlate with the known neoplastic pathways. When patients present with synchronous pre‐malignant polyps of multiple histologies, multiple genetic mechanisms are likely to be active, potentially resulting in a more unstable, tumourigenic mucosa.

Methods

We hypothesized that patients with a combination of sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSA/Ps), hyperplastic (HP) polyps and adenomas would be at highest risk of developing dysplasia/cancer compared to SSA/Ps alone, due to the synergistic effect of multiple active carcinogenic pathways. A prospective colonoscopy database was examined for patients with a history of SSA/P. Patients were placed into four groups based on patterns of polyp histology as follows: (i) only SSA/Ps; (ii) SSA/P + HP; (iii) SSA/Ps + adenomas; and (iv) SSA/Ps + HP + adenomas. These groups were compared in terms of the numbers, size, location and histology of polyps and personal or family history of colorectal cancer.

Results

A total of 374 patients were included. The average age was 70 years (range 21–88), and 43% were male. There was a trend towards the most aggressive neoplastic pattern in group 4, associated with a tendency to larger SSA/Ps, more villous architecture in the adenomas and more high‐grade dysplasia in both types of polyps. It was also associated with multiplicity of both SSA/Ps and adenomas. No SSA/Ps existing in the absence of adenomas had cytological dysplasia.

Conclusion

The combination of SSA/Ps, HP and adenomas in the colorectal epithelium seems to be a marker for aggressive carcinogenesis and suggests that accurate and effective surveillance is important to manage this risk.
Randomised simulation trial found an association between rescuers' height and weight and chest compression quality during paediatric resuscitation
Authors: Bibl Katharina , Gröpel Peter , Berger Angelika , Schmölzer Georg M. , Olischar Monika , Wagner Michael
Published: February 2020

Aim

Our aim was to examine the relationship between rescuers' anthropometric data and chest compression quality during paediatric resuscitation training.

Methods

This study focused on 224 medical students (53% women) who performed 2 minutes of paediatric resuscitation at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria: 116 on a baby manikin and 108 on an adolescent manikin. Skill Reporter software measured chest compression quality by recording compression depth, frequency, hand position and complete recoil. The participants' height, weight and body mass index (BMI) were recorded.

Results

Participants with a lower BMI achieved higher total chest compression scores on both the baby and adolescent manikins than participants with a higher BMI. The latter were more likely to exceed the correct compression depth and not achieve complete chest recoil in the adolescent manikin. When it came to the baby manikin, the female participants achieved better chest recoil and the males achieved a higher number of compressions at the correct rate. Males also achieved better chest recoil with the adolescent manikins. Being tall only correlated with incomplete recoil in the adolescent manikin.

Conclusion

The results indicate that anthropometric variables were associated with chest compression quality in paediatric patients and should be considered by future education programmes.
A path to altruism: Investigating the effects of brand origin and message explicitness in CR‐M campaigns
Authors: Woo Hongjoo , Childs Michelle Lynn , Kim Seeun
Published: February 2020

An increasing number of fashion brands are employing cause‐related marketing (CR‐M) campaigns to promote their social responsibility. However, with growing consumer skepticism about CR‐M, it is becoming more difficult than before to encourage consumers' positive responses to these campaigns. Based on construal level theory and rhetorical theory, this study examined the way brand origin (local vs. global), and its interaction with message type (explicit vs. implicit), influence consumers' perceived brand altruism and brand favorability. Two experimental studies were conducted with a total of 574 U.S. consumers. The results of Study 1 indicated that consumers exhibited higher perceived brand altruism and brand favorability toward a local brand's CR‐M campaign than a global brand's, showing that psychological distance can influence a CR‐M campaign's effectiveness. In addition, the results of Study 2 revealed that an explicit CR‐M message was more effective for global brands, while an implicit message was more effective for local brands, and perceived brand altruism mediated both effects. This suggests the importance of framing messages according to brand origin to maximize CR‐M campaigns' ability to achieve their goals effectively, in which perceived brand altruism plays a key role. The study's implications and limitations are discussed.
Efficacy and safety of dual add‐on therapy with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin versus glimepiride in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes on a stable dose of metformin: Results from a 52‐week, randomized, active‐controlled trial
Authors: Frias Juan P. , Gonzalez‐Galvez Guillermo , Johnsson Eva , Maaske Jill , Testa Marcia A. , Simonson Donald C. , Dronamraju Nalina , Garcia‐Sanchez Ricardo , Peters Anne L.
Published: February 2020

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin (DAPA) + saxagliptin (SAXA) compared with glimepiride (GLIM) in patients with type 2 diabetes who were inadequately controlled [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.5–10.5% (58–91 mmol/mol)] on metformin monotherapy.

Materials and methods

This 52‐week, multicentre, double‐blind, active‐controlled study (NCT02419612) randomized (1:1) patients on metformin to add‐on DAPA 10 mg + SAXA 5 mg (n = 227) or GLIM 1–6 mg (titrated; n = 217). The primary efficacy endpoint was change in HbA1c from baseline to week 52.

Results

Baseline mean ± standard deviation of age, duration of diabetes and HbA1c were 56.1 ± 9.7 years, 7.8 ± 6.4 years and 8.5% ± 0.8% (69 ± 9.0 mmol/mol), respectively. Adjusted mean change from baseline in HbA1c was −1.35% (−14.8 mmol/mol) with DAPA + SAXA versus −0.98% (−10.7 mmol/mol) with GLIM (P <0.001). Changes from baseline in body weight and systolic blood pressure were −3.1 kg and −2.6 mmHg with DAPA + SAXA versus +1.0 kg (P <0.001) and +1.0 mmHg (P = 0.007) with GLIM. More patients achieved HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol) (44.3% vs. 34.3%; P = 0.044), and fewer patients required treatment intensification (1.3% vs. 8.8%; P = 0.002) with DAPA + SAXA than with GLIM.

Conclusions

Compared with GLIM, concurrent addition of DAPA + SAXA significantly improved glycaemic control, body weight and other metabolic parameters in patients inadequately controlled on metformin.

Trial: NCT02419612, ClinicalTrials.gov.
Macroecology and macroevolution of body size inAnolislizards
Authors: Velasco Julián A. , Villalobos Fabricio , Diniz‐Filho José A. F. , Poe Steven , Flores‐Villela Oscar
Published: February 2020

Body size is one of the most influential traits affecting many ecological and physiological processes across animal and plant taxa. Studies of the environmental factors shaping body size patterns may evaluate either temporal or spatial dimensions. Here, we analyzed body size evolution in the radiation ofAnolislizards across both geographical and temporal dimensions. We used a set of macroecological and macroevolutionary methods to test current and past environmental effects on geographical gradients of body size and its evolutionary rates. First, we test whether a set of current ecological/physiological hypotheses (heat balance, productivity and seasonality) explains spatial body size gradients. Second, we evaluate how tempo (i.e. evolutionary rates) and mode (i.e. evolutionary process) of body size evolution changed through time and the role of paleo‐temperatures on rates of body size evolution during the Cenozoic. We did not find a signature of current environmental variables driving spatial body size gradients. By contrast, we found strong support for a correlation between temperature changes (i.e. climate cooling) during the Cenozoic and rates of body size evolution (i.e. body size diversification). We suggest that patterns of body size evolution inAnolislizards might be influenced by thermoregulatory behavior across clades and regions.
Iron isotope fractionation in soil and graminaceous crops after 100 years of liming in the long‐term agricultural experimental site at Berlin‐Dahlem, Germany
Authors: Wu Bei , Wang Yi , Berns Anne E. , Schweitzer Kathlin , Bauke Sara L. , Bol Roland , Amelung Wulf
Published: February 2020

Sustainable arable cropping relies on repeated liming. Yet, the associated increase in soil pH can reduce the availability of iron (Fe) to plants. We hypothesized that repeated liming, but not pedogenic processes such as lessivage (i.e., translocation of clay particles), alters the Fe cycle in Luvisol soil, thereby affecting Fe isotope composition in soils and crops. Hence, we analysed Fe concentrations and isotope compositions in soil profiles and winter rye from the long‐term agricultural experimental site in Berlin‐Dahlem, Germany, where a controlled liming trial with three field replicates per treatment has been conducted on Albic Luvisols since 1923. Heterogeneity in subsoil was observed at this site for Fe concentration but not for Fe isotope composition. Lessivage had not affected Fe isotope composition in the soil profiles. The results also showed that almost 100 years of liming lowered the concentration of the HCl‐extractable Fe that was potentially available for plant uptake in the surface soil (0–15 cm) from 1.03 (standard error (SE) 0.03) to 0.94 (SE 0.01) g kg−1. This HCl‐extractable Fe pool contained isotopically lighter Fe (δ56Fe = −0.05 to −0.29‰) than the bulk soil (δ56Fe = −0.08 to 0.08‰). However, its Fe isotope composition was not altered by the long‐term lime application. Liming resulted in relatively lower Fe concentrations in the roots of winter rye. In addition, liming led to a heavier Fe isotope composition of the whole plants compared with those grown in the non‐limed plots (δ56FeWholePlant_ + Lime = −0.12‰, SE 0.03 vs. δ56FeWholePlant_‐Lime = −0.21‰, SE 0.01). This suggests that the elevated soil pH (increased by one unit due to liming) promoted the Fe uptake strategy through complexation of Fe(III) from the rhizosphere, which favoured heavier Fe isotopes. Overall, the present study showed that liming and a related increase in pH did not affect the Fe isotope compositions of the soil, but may influence the Fe isotope composition of plants grown in the soil if they alter their Fe uptake strategy upon the change of Fe availability.

Highlights

Fe concentrations and stocks, but not Fe isotope compositions, were more heterogeneous in subsoil than in topsoil.

Translocation of clay minerals did not result in Fe isotope fractionation in the soil profile of a Luvisol.

Liming decreased Fe availability in topsoil, but did not affect its δ56Fe values.

Uptake of heavier Fe isotopes by graminaceous crops was more pronounced at elevated pH.
Impact of smoking on platelet function of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel in minor stroke or transient ischaemic attack
Authors: Yang Y. , Chen W. , Meng X. , Liu L. , Wang Y. , Pan Y. , Wang Y.
Published: February 2020

Background and purpose

It remains unclear whether smoking status has an impact on platelet reactivity and clinical outcomes of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel in patients with acute minor stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

Methods

A subgroup analysis of a randomized controlled trial was conducted. Patients with minor stroke or TIA were randomized for treatment with ticagrelor plus aspirin or clopidogrel plus aspirin. Platelet reactivity was assessed by VerifyNow P2Y12 assay at baseline, 7 + 2 days and 90 ± 7 days. High on‐treatment platelet reactivity (HOPR) was defined as P2Y12 reaction units >208. Clinical outcomes included any stroke, composite clinical vascular events and bleeding events at 90 days. Patients who smoked one or more cigarettes per day for at least 1 year in their lives were defined as smokers.

Results

Of 675 patients enrolled in the trial, 370 patients (54.8%) were smokers. At 7 + 2 days, the proportion of HOPR in ticagrelor versus clopidogrel was significantly lower in smokers (5.2% vs. 21.8%) and non‐smokers (2.3% vs. 34.4%). There were marginal significant interactions between treatment groups and smoking status for the proportion of HOPR (P = 0.058). At 90 ± 7 days, there were significant interactions between treatment groups and smoking status for the risk of new stroke (smokers: 7.0% vs. 4.9%; hazard ratio, 1.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.65–3.79; P = 0.39; non‐smokers: 5.3% vs. 13.5%; hazard ratio, 0.39; 95% confidence interval, 0.17–0.91; P = 0.01; P for interaction = 0.02).

Conclusions

Among patients with minor stroke or TIA, ticagrelor was superior to clopidogrel in inhibiting platelet reactivity and reducing the risk of new stroke, particularly for non‐smokers.
Will coral reef sponges be winners in the Anthropocene?
Authors: Lesser Michael P. , Slattery Marc
Published: February 2020

Recent observations have shown that increases in climate change‐related coral mortality cause changes in shallow coral reef community structure through phase shifts to alternative taxa. As a result, sponges have emerged as a potential candidate taxon to become a “winner,” and therefore a numerically and functionally dominant member of many coral reef communities. But, in order for this to occur, there must be sufficient trophic resources to support larger populations of these active filter‐feeding organisms. Globally, climate change is causing an increase in sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and a decrease in salinity, which can lead to an intensification in the stratification of shallow nearshore waters (0–200 m), that affects both the mixed layer depth (MLD) and the strength and duration of internal waves. Specifically, climate change‐driven increases in SSTs for tropical waters are predicted to cause increased stratification, and more stabilized surface waters. This causes a shallowing of the MLD which prevents nutrients from reaching the euphotic zone, and is predicted to decrease net primary production (NPP) up to 20% by the end of the century. Lower NPP would subsequently affect multiple trophic levels, including shallow benthic filter‐feeding communities, as the coupling between water column productivity and the benthos weakens. We argue here that sponge populations may actually be constrained, rather than promoted, by climate change due to decreases in their primary trophic resources, caused by bottom‐up forcing, secondary to physical changes in the water column (i.e., stratification and changes in the MLD resulting in lower nutrients and NPP). As a result, we predict sponge‐dominated tropical reefs will be rare, or short‐lived, if they occur at all into the future in the Anthropocene.
Brachio‐basilic upper arm transposition fistulas vs. prosthetic brachio‐axillary vascular access grafts—Which one is preferred for hemodialysis?
Authors: Tayebi Pouya , Kazemzadeh Gholamhossein , Modaghegh Mohammad Hadi Saeed , Kamyar Mohammad Mahdi , Ravari Hassan
Published: February 2020

Introduction

There is still controversy on the use of brachio‐basilic upper arm transposition fistula (BBAVF) and prosthetic brachio‐axillary vascular access grafts (BAPTFE) in patients with no suitable cephalic veins for creating an autogenous brachio‐cephalic fistula.

Methods

In a randomized controlled clinical trial, 60 hemodialysis patients who were not a suitable candidate for BCAVF were randomly assigned into two groups: BBAVF and BAPTFE. The patients were clinically followed up to 1 year and the patency rate and access‐related complications were compared between the two groups.

Findings

Access failure rate in the BBAVF and BAPTFE groups was 30.0% and 36.6%, respectively. The primary patency time was 232.73 ± 113.36 and 261.53 ± 147.37 days, respectively (P = 0.40). Thrombosis formation and infection were the two main causes for access failure, yet indicating no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Discussion

BBAVF and BAPTFE have comparable clinical outcomes in short‐term follow‐up. Therefore, BAPTFE can be used as an alternative vascular access for hemodialysis in patients who are not a suitable candidate for BBAVF.
Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis‐like reactions to checkpoint inhibitors: a systematic review
Authors: Maloney Nolan J. , Ravi Vignesh , Cheng Kyle , Bach Daniel Q. , Worswick Scott
Published: February 2020

The use of checkpoint inhibitors for treatment of advanced malignancies is increasing. Rashes, pruritus, and more rarely, reactions resembling Stevens‐Johnsons syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) may occur secondary to checkpoint inhibitors. To characterize existing literature on these reports, we queried the PubMed/MEDLINE database for cases of SJS or TEN associated with checkpoint inhibitors. We identified 18 cases of SJS or TEN‐like reactions to checkpoint inhibitors in the literature. There were 12 cases of SJS‐like rashes with median time to onset of 5.6 weeks (average of 8.9 weeks), of which five were delayed to week 8 or later from checkpoint inhibitor initiation. The five TEN‐like reactions had a median time to onset of 4 weeks (average of 5.38 weeks), of which two were delayed to week 6 or later. SJS/TEN‐like reactions to nivolumab (seven cases) had median onset time of 3 weeks, whereas five cases secondary to pembrolizumab had median onset time of 11 weeks. Seven cases in this study described prodromal rashes, which varied from localized papular rashes to generalized morbilliform rashes, prior to evolution into SJS or TEN‐like patterns. SJS‐like patterns generally improved well on systemic treatment/supportive care and no cases of death were identified, but mortality occurred in three of five patients with TEN‐like reactions. Dermatologists should consider the possibility for unique features of SJS/TEN in response to checkpoint inhibitors. Additional studies will be necessary to further characterize SJS/TEN‐like eruptions on checkpoint inhibitors and determine the optimal management of these cases.
The effect of boron and aluminum additions on the microstructure of arc‐melted boron carbide
Authors: Xiang Sisi , Yang Qirong , Lien Hsu‐Ming , Shial Keya , Gronske Eric , Haber Richard , Xie Kelvin Y.
Published: February 2020

In this work, B4C, B4C + 5 at.% Al, B4C + B, and B4C + B + 5 at.% Al were arc melted, and the resultant solid products were characterized. Results from x‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy showed that adding Al alone in B4C did not result in Al doping; adding Al and B in B4C led to Al doping. Al‐doping also changed the surface energy of boron carbide in the liquid state, thus altered the wettability. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that stacking faults are more likely to form in the Al‐doped sample, especially in the regions where the Al concentration is high.
Transvenous lead extraction after heart transplantation: How to avoid abandoned lead fragments
Authors: Hahnel Fabian , Pecha Simon , Bernhardt Alexander , Barten Markus J. , Chung Da‐Un , Sinning Christoph , Willems Stephan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Hakmi Samer
Published: February 2020

Background

Many patients awaiting heart transplantation (HTX) have a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED). Lead removal is often still a part of the HTX procedure. Abandoned lead fragments carry a risk for infections and prohibit magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging. This study evaluated the concept of an elective lead management algorithm after HTX.

Methods and Results

Between 2009 and 2018, 102 consecutive patients with previously implanted CIED underwent HTX. Lead removal by manual traction during HTX was performed in 74 patients until December 2014. Afterward, treatment strategy was changed and 28 patients received elective lead extraction procedures in a hybrid operating room (OR) using specialized extraction tools. Total of 74 patients with 157 leads underwent lead extraction by manual traction during HTX. The mean lead age was 32.3 ± 38.7 months. Postoperative X‐ray revealed abandoned intravascular lead fragments in 31(41.9%) patients, resulting in a complete lead extraction rate of only 58.1%. The high rate of unsuccessful lead extractions led to the change in the extraction strategy in 2015. Since then, HTX was performed in 28 CIED patients. In those patients, 64 leads with a mean lead age of 53.8 ± 42.8 months were treated in an elective lead extraction procedure. No major or minor complications occurred during lead extraction. All leads could be removed completely, resulting in a procedural success rate of 100%.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that chronically implanted leads should be removed in an elective procedure, using appropriate extraction tools. This enables complete lead extraction, which reduces the infection risk in this patient population with the necessity for permanent immunosuppressive therapy and allows further MRI surveillance.
Cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer cells is involved with GPR30‐mediated epithelial‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Xu Zhiyuan , Sun Jiancheng , Lv Hang , Wang Yiping , Ni Yixiu , Chen Shangqi , Hu Can , Wang Lijing , Chen Wei , Cheng Xiangdong
Published: February 2020

Cisplatin is the major chemotherapeutic drug in gastric cancer, particularly in treating advanced gastric cancer. Tumour cells often develop resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs, which seriously affects the efficacy of chemotherapy. GPR30 is a novel oestrogen receptor that is involved in the invasion, metastasis and drug resistance of many tumours. Targeting GPR30 has been shown to increase the drug sensitivity of breast cancer cells. However, few studies have investigated the role of GPR30 in gastric cancer. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to be associated with the development of chemotherapeutic drug resistance. In this study, we demonstrated that GPR30 is involved in cisplatin resistance by promoting EMT in gastric cancer. GPR30 knockdown resulted in increased sensitivity of different gastric cancer (GC) cells to cisplatin and alterations in the epithelial/mesenchymal markers. Furthermore, G15 significantly enhanced the cisplatin sensitivity of GC cells while G1 inhibited this phenomenon. In addition, EMT occurred when AGS and BGC‐823 were treated with cisplatin. Down‐regulation of GPR30 with G15 inhibited this transformation, while G1 promoted it. Taken together, these results revealed the role of GPR30 in the formation of cisplatin resistance, suggesting that targeting GPR30 signalling may be a potential strategy for improving the efficacy of chemotherapy in gastric cancer.
Activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 4 regulates proliferation and neural differentiation in neural stem/progenitor cells of the rat subventricular zone and increases phosphatase and tensin homolog protein expression
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Zheng Xiaoyan , Liu Yingfei , Luan Yan , Wang Li , Zhao Lingyu , Zhang Jianshui , Tian Yumei , Lu Haixia , Chen Xinlin , Liu Yong
Published: February 2020

Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) persist in the mammalian subventricular zone throughout life, where they can be activated in response to physiological and pathophysiological stimuli. A recent study indicates metabotropic glutamate receptor 4 (mGluR4) is involved in regulating NSPCs behaviors. Therefore, defining mGluR4 function in NSPCs is necessary for determining novel strategies to enhance the intrinsic potential for brain regeneration after injuries. In this study, mGluR4 was functionally expressed in SVZ‐derived NSPCs from male Sprague‐Dawley rats, in which the cyclic adenosine monophosphate concentration was reduced after treatment with the mGluR4‐specific agonist VU0155041. Additionally, lateral ventricle injection of VU0155041 significantly decreased 5‐bromo‐2'‐deoxyuridine (BrdU)+ and Ki67+ cells, while increased Doublecortin (DCX)/BrdU double‐positive cells in SVZ. In cultured NSPCs, mGluR4 activation decreased the ratio of BrdU+ cells, G2/M‐phase cells, and inhibited Cyclin D1 expression, whereas it increased neuron‐specific class III β‐tubulin (Tuj1) expression and the number of Tuj1, DCX, and PSA‐NCAM‐positive cells. However, pharmacological blocking mGluR4 with the antagonist MSOP or knockdown of mGluR4 abolished the effects of VU0155041 on NSPCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation. Further investigation demonstrated that VU0155041 treatment down‐regulated AKT phosphorylation and up‐regulated expression of the phosphatase and tensin homolog protein (PTEN) in NSPCs culture. Moreover VU0155041‐induced proliferating inhibition and neuronal differentiating amplification in NSPCs were significantly hampered by VO‐OHpic, a PTEN inhibitor. We conclude that activation of mGluR4 in SVZ‐derived NSPCs suppresses proliferation and enhances their neuronal differentiation, and regulation of PTEN may be involved as a potential intracellular target of mGluR4 signal.

image

Cover Image for this issue: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.15052.
Long‐term use of dienogest for the treatment of primary and secondary dysmenorrhea
Authors: Osuga Yutaka , Hayashi Koichi , Kanda Shingo
Published: February 2020

Aim

To investigate the safety and efficacy of dienogest (DNG), a progestational 19‐norsteroid, administered for 52 weeks in patients with primary and secondary dysmenorrhea.

Methods

A total of 147 patients with dysmenorrhea received 1 mg of DNG orally each day for 52 weeks. The dose could be increased to 2 mg/day at or after Week 12 according to the investigator's determination. The primary safety endpoint was evaluation of adverse events, and the secondary safety endpoint was evaluation of adverse drug reactions. The number of days and severity of genital bleeding were assessed according to records in the patients' diary. Lower abdominal pain and/or low back pain because of dysmenorrhea were assessed according to the dysmenorrhea score.

Results

The most frequent adverse drug reaction was irregular uterine bleeding (94.6%). Most subjects completed the 52‐week administration. Genital bleeding was more likely to occur in subjects with secondary dysmenorrhea than in those with primary dysmenorrhea, and in subjects with “uterine myoma or adenomyosis” than in those with “endometriosis alone.” In any of the categorizations, there tended to be fewer days with genital bleeding as the treatment period increased in length, and most of the genital bleeding cases were mild. The change from baseline in the dysmenorrhea score (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) was −3.7 ± 1.6 at Week 24 of treatment and −4.0 ± 1.3 at Week 52.

Conclusion

This study showed favorable tolerability of the long‐term use of DNG to patients with dysmenorrhea and a sustainable pain relief effect.
Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere—From Prevention to Detection and Equitable Access to Care
Authors: Li Philip Kam‐Tao , Garcia‐Garcia Guillermo , Lui Siu‐Fai , Andreoli Sharon , Fung Winston Wing‐Shing , Hradsky Anne , Kumaraswami Latha , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Rakhimova Ziyoda , Saadi Gamal , Strani Luisa , Ulasi Ifeoma , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar ,   for the World Kidney Day Steering Committee
Published: February 2020

The global burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing with a projection of becoming the fifth leading cause of years of life lost globally by 2040. CKD is a major cause of catastrophic health expenditure. The costs of dialysis and transplantation consume up to 3% of the entire annual healthcare budget in high‐income countries. Crucially, however, both the onset and progression of CKD is potentially preventable. In 2020, the World Kidney Day campaign highlights the importance of preventive interventions—be it primary, i.e. to prevent de novo CKD, or secondary or tertiary, i.e. prevention of worsening early CKD or progression of more advanced CKD to end‐stage kidney disease, respectively. Primary prevention should focus on the modification of CKD risk factors and address the structural abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tracts, and exposure to environmental risk factors and nephrotoxins. In persons with pre‐existing kidney disease, secondary prevention, including blood pressure optimization, glycemic control and avoiding high‐protein high‐sodium diet should be the main goal of education and clinical interventions. In patients with moderate to advanced CKD, the management of comorbidities such as uremia and cardiovascular disease along with low‐protein diet are among the recommended preventative interventions to avoid or delay dialysis or kidney transplantation. Whereas national policies and strategies for noncommunicable diseases may exist in a country, specific policies directed toward education and awareness about CKD screening, prevention and treatment are often lacking. There is an urgent need to increase awareness for preventive measures throughout populations, professionals and policy makers.
Antidepressant Usage in Haemodialysis Patients: Evidence of Sub‐Optimal Practice Patterns
Authors: Guirguis Ayman , Chilcot Joseph , Almond Michael , Davenport Andrew , Wellsted David , Farrington Ken
Published: February 2020

Background

Depression is common in patients on haemodialysis and associated with adverse outcomes. Antidepressant use is widespread though evidence of efficacy is limited.

Objectives

To study antidepressant management practices in patients on haemodialysis with reference to NICE guidelines on management of depression in adults with chronic physical health problems.

Design

Prospective, multicentre, longitudinal cohort study with 6–15 month follow‐up.

Participants

Patients on haemodialysis established on antidepressant medication.

Measurements

Baseline assessment of mood was undertaken using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II). Demographic, clinical and medication data were also collected. Changes in clinical and life circumstances and medication during follow‐up were recorded. At follow‐up, BDI‐II was reassessed and diagnostic psychiatric assessment undertaken.

Results

Forty‐one patients were studied. General practitioners were the main prescribers (68%). Ten agents were in use, the commonest being Citalopram (39%). Doses were often suboptimal. At baseline, 30 patients had high BDI‐II scores (≥16) and 22 remained high at follow‐up. Eleven had BDI‐II < 16 at baseline. In five, this increased on follow‐up to ≥16. Sixteen patients (39%) had no medication review during follow‐up, 14 (34%) had a dose review, and 11 (27%) a medication change. On psychiatric assessment at follow‐up, eight patients had current major depressive disorder (MDD), seven recurrent and 20 evidence of past MDD. Six displayed no evidence of ever having MDD.

Conclusions

Antidepressant management in patients on haemodialysis reflected poor drug selection, overprescription, under‐dosing and inadequate follow‐up suggesting sub‐optimal adherence to NICE guidelines. Most patients had high depression scores at follow‐up. Antidepressant use in haemodialysis requires reappraisal.
Induction of SIRT1 by melatonin improves alcohol‐mediated oxidative liver injury by disrupting the CRBN‐YY1‐CYP2E1 signaling pathway
Authors: Lee Sung‐Eun , Koh Hong , Joo Dong Jin , Nedumaran Balachandar , Jeon Hwang‐Ju , Park Chul‐Seung , Harris Robert A. , Kim Yong Deuk
Published: February 2020

Alcoholic liver disease is the most prevalent chronic liver disease. Melatonin is known to control many vital processes. Here, we explored a novel molecular mechanism by which melatonin‐induced SIRT1 signaling protects against alcohol‐mediated oxidative stress and liver injury. Gene expression profiles and metabolic changes were measured in liver specimens of mice and human subjects. Expression levels of Cb1r, Crbn, Btg2, Yy1, pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and Cyp2e1 were significantly enhanced in chronic alcohol‐challenged mice and human subjects. Levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), hepatic CYP2E1 protein, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were elevated in alcohol‐fed WT mice but not in Cb1r antagonist‐treated, Crbn null, or Yy1‐silenced mice. Importantly, alcohol‐induced Yy1 and Cyp2e1 expression, ROS amount, and liver injury were markedly diminished by melatonin treatment and the transduction of Sirt1 in mice, whereas this phenomenon was prominently ablated by silencing of Sirt1. Notably, SIRT1 physically interacted with YY1 and attenuated YY1 occupancy on the Cyp2e1 gene promoter. Melatonin‐SIRT1 signaling ameliorates alcohol‐induced oxidative liver injury by disrupting the CRBN‐YY1‐CYP2E1 signaling pathway. The manipulation of CRBN‐YY1‐CYP2E1 signaling network by the melatonin‐SIRT1 pathway highlights a novel entry point for treating alcoholic liver disease.
The impact of ABO blood type on the prevalence of portal vein thrombosis in patients with advanced chronic liver disease
Authors: Scheiner Bernhard , Northup Patrick G. , Gruber Anselm B. , Semmler Georg , Leitner Gerda , Quehenberger Peter , Thaler Johannes , Ay Cihan , Trauner Michael , Reiberger Thomas , Lisman Ton , Mandorfer Mattias
Published: February 2020

Background and aims

Non‐O blood type (BT) is a risk factor for thromboses, which has been attributed to its effects on von Willebrand factor (VWF)/factor VIII (FVIII) levels. Although high VWF/FVIII may be risk factors for portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD), the impact of BT on PVT is unknown. We aimed to assess (I) whether non‐O‐BT is a risk factor for PVT and (II) whether non‐O‐BT impacts VWF/factor VIII in patients with ACLD.

Methods

Retrospective analysis comprising two cohorts: (I) “US” including all adult liver transplantations in the US in the MELD era and (II) “Vienna” comprising patients with a hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) ≥6 mmHg.

Results

(I) The “US cohort” included 84 947 patients (non‐O: 55.43%). The prevalence of PVT at the time of listing (4.37% vs 4.56%; P = .1762) and at liver transplantation (9.56% vs 9.33%; P = .2546) was similar in patients with O‐ and non‐O‐BT. (II) 411 patients were included in the “Vienna cohort” (non‐O: 64%). Mean HVPG was 18(9) mmHg and 90% had an HVPG ≥10 mmHg. Patients with non‐O‐BT had slightly increased VWF levels (318(164)% vs 309(176)%; P = .048; increase of 23.8%‐23.9% in adjusted analyses), but this difference was driven by patients with less advanced disease. However, non‐O‐BT explained only 1% of the variation in VWF and had no effect on FVIII.

Conclusions

Although non‐O‐BT impacts VWF in patients with early stage ACLD, its contribution to VWF variation is considerably smaller than in the general population. Moreover, non‐O‐BT had no impact on FVIII. These findings may explain the absence of an association between non‐O‐BT and PVT in patients with advanced cirrhosis.
Household food insecurity and early childhood development: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: de Oliveira Klébya Hellen Dantas , de Almeida Géssica Mercia , Gubert Muriel Bauermann , Moura Amanda Souza , Spaniol Ana Maria , Hernandez Daphne C. , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Buccini Gabriela
Published: February 2020

Household food insecurity (HFI) is a powerful stressor negatively associated with early childhood development (ECD). However, no comprehensive review has examined the association of HFI and ECD. Therefore, this systematic review and meta‐analysis investigated the association between HFI and ECD domains and subdomains in children under 5 years old. Peer‐reviewed and grey literature were systematically searched in electronic databases with no year or language restrictions. Studies were eligible if they assessed the association between HFI and one or more ECD domains. Data were extracted using a standard predefined protocol. Meta‐analysis was performed, and the heterogeneity across studies was explored. Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta‐analysis. Of the studies, 15 were from high income countries (HICs) and four from low–middle income countries (LMICs). For developmental risk and the cognitive/math and cognitive/school readiness and reading subdomains, the only studies available were conducted in HICs. The meta‐analysis showed that HFI was associated with developmental risk (OR 1.28; 95% CI [1.14, 1.45]), cognitive/vocabulary (OR 0.94; 95% CI [0.90, 0.98]), and cognitive/math (OR 0.84; 95% CI [0.73, 0.96]). HFI was marginally associated with cognitive/school readiness and reading (OR 0.91; 95% CI [0.82, 1.00]) and motor development (OR; 0.91, 95% CI [0.80, 1.04]). HFI was associated with poor ECD in children under 5 years old. Specifically, HFI was associated with developmental risk and poor math skills in studies conducted in HICs and with poor vocabulary skills in studies conducted in both HICs and LMICs. Prospective studies examining HFI and ECD are needed in LMICs.
Effects of Mobile‐Mediated Dynamic and Nondynamic Glosses on L2 Vocabulary Learning: A Sociocultural Perspective
Authors: RASSAEI EHSAN
Published: February 2020

The present study investigated the effects of 2 forms of text‐based second language (L2) vocabulary glosses, namely dynamic and nondynamic glosses on EFL learners' vocabulary knowledge. Dynamic glosses were operationalized as a set of incrementally ordered mediating annotations designed to help learners identify the correct word definition while nondynamic glosses were operationalized as traditional fixed word definitions. During 2 treatment sessions, the participants in the 2 experimental groups as well as the control condition were presented with several short passages that included a number of unknown words via the Telegram application using learners' smartphones. The participants in the dynamic glossing condition were presented with a set of graduated prompts ordered from the most implicit to the most explicit for each unfamiliar word to identify its correct definition while reading the short passages. For the mobile‐mediated nondynamic glossing condition, the learners were directly provided with a first language (L1) definition for each target word while reading the same text via their smartphones. The results of posttests and delayed posttests provided evidence for the benefits of the 2 mobile‐mediated glossing conditions and also the superiority of the dynamic glossing condition over nondynamic glossing condition for L2 vocabulary learning.
Doing Justice to Difference: Stanley Hauerwas and Public Theology
Authors: Johnson Russell P.
Published: February 2020

Stanley Hauerwas’s theology is widely read as a rejection of the world in favor of the church, and thus the antithesis of politically‐engaged, publicly‐minded theologies like Reinhold Niebuhr's. However, Hauerwas's critical work can be more fruitfully understood as an effort in disambiguating concepts like “love” and “justice.” Attending to the role language plays in Hauerwas's thought shows how neo‐Anabaptist theology acts as a corrective to, not a rejection of, public theology. Charles Mathewes's The Republic of Grace is one example of a neo‐Augustinian political theology that takes Hauerwas's conceptual clarifications seriously.
Virulence and pCM1 plasmid carriage are related to BOX‐PCR fingerprint type in strains of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis that cause bacterial wilt and canker of tomato in Argentina
Authors: Wassermann Eliana , Montecchia Marcela S. , Garaventa Valeria S. , Correa Olga S. , Romero Ana M.
Published: February 2020

Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (Cmm) causes bacterial wilt and canker in tomato, producing important economic losses worldwide. Its virulence has been related to several putative virulence factors present on a chromosomal pathogenicity island and on plasmids pCM1 and pCM2, in strain NCPPB382. We genotypically characterized a collection of Cmm isolates from the main greenhouse tomato‐producing areas of Argentina by BOX‐PCR fingerprinting and screened for the presence of genes and plasmids involved in pathogenicity by PCR. In addition, we evaluated in vitro cellulolytic activity and virulence in planta of selected strains. BOX‐PCR fingerprinting clustered strains into four groups. Group II was dominant and included the most virulent strains, while Group III was the smallest and had the least virulent strains. All local strains exhibited similar cellulolytic activity. Most of the examined strains carry two plasmids of similar size to those of NCPPB382, although there were strains with one or three plasmids. By PCR amplification of repA, pCM1 was detected only in strains belonging to Group III, which includes local strains closely related to reference strain NCPPB382. All analysed pathogenicity genes were widespread among strains, and so in strains belonging to Groups I and II, celA found on pCM1 in NCPPB382 could be found in the chromosome or in plasmids other than pCM1. This study contributes to a better understanding of the diversity of Cmm genetic profiles and virulence of strains present in Argentina. Such information could be useful for the selection of strains for screening of host resistance and development of resistant tomato varieties.