bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenteric adipose tissue B lymphocytes promote local and hepatic inflammation in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease mice
Authors: Wu Zhe , Xu Jun , Tan Jiang , Song Yang , Liu Ling , Zhang Feng , Zhang Yifan , Li Xia , Chi Yujing , Liu Yulan
Published: February 2019

Mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT) inflammation is associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and immune cells play pivotal roles in the inflammation of adipose tissue. Here, we investigated the roles of MAT B lymphocytes in NAFLD. Mice fed with high‐fat diet (HFD) and normal diet (ND) were killed in time gradients (4, 8 and 12 weeks). Compared with ND‐fed mice, intra‐hepatic CD45+CD19+ B lymphocytes increased after 4 weeks (P < 0.01) of HFD feeding, and lasted until the 12th week, infiltrated earlier than CD45+CD3+ T lymphocytes and CD45+F4/80+ macrophages. The mRNA expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐6 and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)‐1 decreased in MAT of Bnull HFD‐fed mice compared to that in wild‐type HFD‐fed mice, along with lesser macrophages. Mesenteric adipose tissue B cells from HFD‐fed mice promoted macrophage differentiation to type‐Ι macrophages and expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in vitro. Macrophages pre‐treated with MAT B cells from HFD‐fed mice showed elevated mRNA expression of IL‐6 and TNF‐α and declined IL‐10 levels in adipocytes compared to ND MAT B cell pre‐treated macrophages. Besides, internal near‐infrared scanning and external transwell assay showed that HFD MAT B cells migrated to the liver more than ND MAT B cells. High‐fat diet MAT B cells induced higher MCP‐1 and lower IL‐10 expression in primary hepatocytes compared to ND MAT B cells in co‐culture experiment. These data indicate that B lymphocytes infiltrate early in MAT during the development of NAFLD, which may not only promote MAT inflammation by regulating macrophages but also migrate to the liver and induce hepatocytes inflammation.
Changes in self‐concept and risk of psychotic experiences in adolescence: a longitudinal population‐based cohort study
Authors: Healy Colm , Coughlan Helen , Williams James , Clarke Mary , Kelleher Ian , Cannon Mary
Published: February 2019

Background

Psychotic experiences (PEs) are commonly reported in adolescence and are associated with a range of negative outcomes. Few targets for intervention for PEs have been identified. One potential target is self‐concept: an individual's beliefs about his/her personal attributes. Improvements in self‐concept have been shown to reduce psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia but no study has investigated the relationship between changes in self‐concept and risk of PEs in the general population.

We aimed to investigate: (a) the relationship between child and adolescent self‐concept and adolescent PEs; and (b) whether changes in self‐concept between childhood and adolescence were associated with risk of adolescent PEs.

Method

Using data from age 9 and age 13 (n = 7,423) of the child cohort (Cohort'98) from the Growing Up in Ireland study we investigated the relationship between self‐concept at age 9 and age 13 and PEs at age 13. PEs were measured using the Adolescent Psychotic Symptoms Screener and self‐concept was measured using the Piers Harris‐II. Using a stratified analysis, we investigated the relationship between change in self‐concept between age 9 and age 13 and the risk of PEs at age 13. Additionally we investigated changes across the six self‐concept subscales.

Results

Psychotic experiences were reported by 13% of participants at age 13. ‘Very low’ self‐concept at age 9 was associated with an increased risk of PEs at age 13 (Adjusted‐OR: 2.74, CI: 1.80–4.19), and ‘High’ self‐concept at age 9 was associated with a decreased risk of PEs at age 13 (Adjusted‐OR: 0.77, CI: 0.60–0.97). The stratified analysis indicated that improvements in self‐concept reduced the odds of adolescent PEs and decline in self‐concept increased the odds of adolescent PEs. This effect was noted across the majority of the self‐concept subscales.

Conclusions

There is a strong relationship between self‐concept and PEs. The antecedents of low self‐concept may be a useful target for preventative psychiatry. Broad‐spectrum interventions targeting self‐concept in childhood may help to reduce the incidence of PEs in adolescence.
Nested case–control study investigating the diagnostic role of tissue eosinophilia in adverse cutaneous drug reactions
Authors: Samuelov L. , Nathan A. , Slutsky E. , Fruchter D. , Gat A. , Sprecher E. , Goldberg I.
Published: February 2019

Background

Although tissue eosinophilia has traditionally been considered diagnostically supportive of adverse cutaneous drug reactions (ACDRs), studies have suggested it is neither a sensitive nor a specific finding in drug eruptions (DEs).

Objectives

Determining whether skin tissue eosinophilia is a reliable indicator ofACDR.

Methods

A nested case–control retrospective study conducted in a cohort of 170 patients at a single institution. Tissue eosinophilia (number of eosinophils per high‐power field (HPF)) was investigated in skin biopsies obtained from the following groups of patients who demonstrated: (i) in vitro assay and telephone interview‐validated cutaneous drug reactions (trueDE); (ii) initial clinical diagnosis ofACDRbut drug aetiology was excluded by in vitro assay and telephone interview (falseDE); and (iii) non‐drug‐associated cutaneous eruptions, skin tumours and nevi, randomly selected for evaluation (control).

Results

Significantly higher number of eosinophils perHPFwas observed in the falseDEcompared to the trueDEgroup (P = 0.02). The falseDEgroup demonstrated a higher number of eosinophils (P < 0.001) while the trueDEgroup eosinophils’ number was not significantly higher as compared to control (P = 0.2032).

Conclusions

Tissue eosinophilia is not a reliable indicator ofACDRs.
The Needs Self‐Rating Questionnaire for Breast Cancer (NSQ‐BC): Development of a tool for the needs assessment of women with breast cancer in mainland China
Authors: Zhou Kaina , Huo Lanting , He Xiaole , Li Minjie , An Jinghua , Wang Wen , Li Jin , Li Xiaomei
Published: February 2019

Rationale, Aims, and Objectives

A needs assessment tool considering the cultural background of mainland China has not been reported. This study developed a Needs Self‐rating Questionnaire for Breast Cancer (NSQ‐BC) based on Maslow's hierarchy of needs for mainland Chinese patients.

Methods

The Delphi technique and pilot cross‐sectional surveys (two rounds) were performed for item selection. In the Delphi technique, items were selected according to the experts' perspective on the item's significance (ie, 1‐5 Likert‐scale ratings of importance; mean > 4.0 and coefficients of variation <0.25). In the pilot cross‐sectional surveys, items were selected according to internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α ≥ 0.70), discriminant validity (stronger correlations of the item with the hypothesized subscale than for other subscales), and convergent validity (hypothesized item‐subscale correlations ≥0.40). All decisions were made based on the results of statistical analyses, recommendations of the experts, and in‐depth discussion among research team members.

Results

Following the two evaluation rounds, the revised NSQ‐BC comprised 26 items across five subscales of needs: physical, psychological, respect/self‐esteem, information, and rehabilitation. Item ratings from the expert panellists met the aforementioned criteria (ie, Kendall's W = 0.329, P < 0.001). Except for the “respect/self‐esteem needs” subscale, Cronbach's α for all subscales exceeded 0.70. All items had acceptable discriminant and convergent validity. Additionally, two new items—good environment/facilities and economic support—were added to the NSQ‐BC, as recommended by the experts.

Conclusions

The NSQ‐BC was developed fully via the comprehensive use of Delphi technique and pilot cross‐sectional surveys. It provides evidence of a proper instrument for needs assessment and evaluation among women with breast cancer in mainland China.
Bone mineral density from early to middle adulthood in persons with Down syndrome
Authors: Tang J. Y. M. , Luo H. , Wong G. H. Y. , Lau M. M. Y. , Joe G. M. , Tse M. A. , Ip P. , Wong I. C. K. , Lum T. Y. S.
Published: February 2019

Background

While accelerated ageing is recognised among individuals with Down syndrome (DS), the trajectory of their bone health across adulthood remains poorly understood.

Methods

This study aimed to determine the age‐related loss of bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine in 128 adults with DS aged 18 to 54 years compared with 723 counterparts without DS.

Results

Men and women with DS had lower level of BMD than counterparts without DS across age groups. Magnitude of decrement in BMD as reflected in the z‐scores was similar between younger and older men with DS. Older women with DS, on the contrary, showed greater decrement in older ages especially in their fourth decade of life. Osteopenia and osteoporosis as defined using age‐specific and gender‐specific T‐scores affected greater number of men with DS (38% and 25%) than women (17% and 17%) aged 40–49 years.

Conclusions

Findings supported adults with DS, especially men, to have early bone mineral testing.
Service use and perceptions of service effectiveness by parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities: comparing Jewish and Arab Israeli parental caregivers
Authors: Werner S.
Published: February 2019

Background

The relationship between ethnicity, service use and perceptions of service effectiveness is inconclusive. This study examined differences in service use and perceptions of service effectiveness between Israeli Jewish (Jewish) and Israeli Arab (Arab) parental caregivers of individuals with intellectual disabilities and dual diagnosis of psychopathology.

Methods

Parental caregivers (n = 186) of individuals with intellectual disabilities or dual diagnosis, aged 10 to 30 years, completed a self‐report questionnaire.

Results

Arab parental caregivers perceived health services to be more accessible than did Jewish caregivers, but there was no difference between the two groups in the use of the services. Overall, greater enabling factors and accessibility were associated with higher use of education and social services. No differences were found between the groups in their perceptions of service effectiveness.

Conclusion

Arab family caregivers use education and social services less than do their Jewish peers, possibly because they have fewer enabling resources. The finding that both groups reported similar use of health services may be explained by a shared perception that informal help may not be suitable for dealing with situations of psychopathology. The similar perceptions of service effectiveness may be explained by extensive services available in Israel, to the satisfaction of both groups, or by the fact that participants perceived these services as their only alternative, and therefore fear losing them.
CT Attenuation of Acute Subdural Hematomas in Patients with Anemia
Authors: Duy Lindsay , Badeeb Arwa , Duy Walter , Alqahtani Eman , Champion Walter , Kim Dae Hee , Martin Dann , Vartanians Vartan , Coffin Phillip , Small Juan E.
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Isodense and hypodense acute subdural hematomas have been reported in the literature in anemic patients. The purpose of this study is to see if there is a statistically significant difference between the Hounsfield unit measurements of acute subdural hematomas in anemic and nonanemic patients.

METHODS

A total of 109 patients were analyzed. We measured the most hyperdense component of the subdural hematoma and compared these measurements for both anemic and nonanemic patients.

RESULTS

All patients with anemia had a hyperdense component to their subdural hematomas during the acute period. No statistically significant difference was found in the density of the subdural hematomas between the two groups. More heterogeneous subdural hematomas were found in the anemic group than the nonanemic group, which suggests that anemia alone is not a sufficient explanation for acute homogenous isodense and hypodense subdural hematomas.

CONCLUSION

A hyperdense subdural component was present in all acute subdural hematomas in anemic patients. Therefore, anemia alone is not a sufficient explanation for a homogenous low‐density acute subdural hematoma.
Relativism or tolerance? Defining, assessing, connecting, and distinguishing two moral personality features with prominent roles in modern societies
Authors: Collier‐Spruel Lauren , Hawkins Ashley , Jayawickreme Eranda , Fleeson William , Furr R. Michael
Published: February 2019

Objective

This work disentangles moral tolerance from moral relativism and reveals their distinct personological meanings. Both constructs have long been of interest to moral philosophers, moral psychologists, and everyday people, and they may play prominent roles in the feasibility of modern diverse societies. However, they have been criticized as devaluing morality and as producing overly permissive societies. Moreover, although they lack necessary conceptual implications for each other, they are easily (and often) conflated.

Method

Three studies included nine samples (total N > 3,200, 40%–50% female, Mage = 38–40, 83% white). Participants completed (online) new measures of moral tolerance and moral relativism, along with measures of 40 additional constructs.

Results

Results reveal robust psychometric quality of the new measures (the Moral Relativism Scale and the Moral Tolerance Scale), demonstrate that the constructs are empirically overlapping but separable, and highlight their distinct personological networks. Moral relativism was associated with liberal political views and a lowered valuing/enacting of moral values. Moral tolerance was weakly associated with liberal political views but was strongly related to a broad range of both liberal and conservative moral values.

Conclusion

This work yields new tools for investigating moral character, and it reveals the differential meaning of two important moral constructs.
New treatment options for delta virus: Is a cure in sight?
Authors: Yurdaydin Cihan
Published: February 2019

Current treatment of chronic hepatitis D viral infection with interferons is poorly tolerated and effective only in a minority of patients. Despite delta virus causing the most severe form of chronic viral hepatitis, no other treatments are available. After many years of inactivity, there is now hope for new treatment approaches for delta virus and some are likely to enter clinical practice in the near future. Four new treatment approaches are currently being evaluated in phase 2 studies. These involve the hepatocyte entry inhibitor myrcludex B, the farnesyl transferase inhibitor lonafarnib, the nucleic acid inhibitor REP 2139 Ca and pegylated interferon lambda. Results obtained so far are promising, and phase 3 studies are expected shortly. This review summarizes the available data on the efficacy and safety of these new drugs.
Detectability of species of Carex varies with abundance, morphology, and site complexity
Authors: Dennett Jacqueline M. , Nielsen Scott E.
Published: February 2019

Questions

Are graminoids more poorly detected than other life forms of vascular plants in surveys? How well do observer‐, species‐, and site‐specific variables explain variation in detection of Carex species across forests of different structure?

Location

Northeastern Alberta, Canada.

Methods

Species inventories were assessed within 50 belt transects, each 100 m in length and 2 m in width. Pseudoturnover was estimated for four life forms and all encountered species. Site‐specific factors were then compared with pseudoturnover of all vascular plants and graminoids using generalized linear regression. Carex detection probabilities were compared based on morphological groups. Detection success at a site and delays in detection within a site were assessed using logistic regression with AIC used to rank a‐priori hypotheses and standardized variables used to determine effect sizes of parameters related to plant detectability.

Results

Pseudoturnover for graminoids was similar to that for other life forms and best related to ground layer cover. Morphological groups related to differences in detection, with short, small‐inflorescence Carex most poorly detected. Detection failure was best explained by species abundance and morphology, but delays were more tied to a site's vegetation structure and species abundance than to species morphology.

Conclusions

Surveys targeting graminoids, including species of Carex, can achieve high detection rates with high survey effort over small areas, but should consider species‐ and site‐specific biases in detection success. Abundance is likely the most influential factor in determining detection success, and this must be accounted for when searching for low‐density species. We recommend that increased effort (time, repeat observations) be applied when searching for morphologically small graminoids.
Differential responses to ocean acidification between populations ofBalanophyllia eleganscorals from high and low upwelling environments
Authors: Griffiths Joanna S. , Pan Tien-Chien Francis , Kelly Morgan W.
Published: February 2019

Ocean acidification (OA), the global decrease in surface water pH from absorption of anthropogenic CO2, may put many marine taxa at risk. However, populations that experience extreme localized conditions, and are adapted to these conditions predicted in the global ocean in 2,100, may be more tolerant to future OA. By identifying locally adapted populations, researchers can examine the mechanisms used to cope with decreasing pH. One oceanographic process that influences pH is wind‐driven upwelling. Here we compare two Californian populations of the coralBalanophyllia elegansfrom distinct upwelling regimes, and test their physiological and transcriptomic responses to experimental seawater acidification. We measured respiration rates, protein and lipid content, and gene expression in corals from both populations exposed to pH levels of 7.8 and 7.4 for 29 days. Corals from the population that experiences lower pH due to high upwelling maintained the same respiration rate throughout the exposure. In contrast, corals from the low upwelling site had reduced respiration rates, protein content and lipid–class content at low pH exposure, suggesting they have depleted their energy reserves. Using RNA‐Seq, we found that corals from the high upwelling site upregulated genes involved in calcium ion binding and ion transport, most likely related to pH homeostasis and calcification. In contrast, corals from the low upwelling site downregulated stress response genes at low pH exposure. Divergent population responses to low pH observed inB. eleganshighlight the importance of multi‐population studies for predicting a species' response to future OA.
Beyond the absent body—A phenomenological contribution to the understanding of body awareness in health and illness
Authors: Dahlberg Helena
Published: February 2019

Starting from a phenomenological understanding of the body, this article discusses the understanding of body awareness in health and illness. I question the common way to understand our relationship to our bodies in terms of subjective and objective perspectives on it, and furthermore, how this opposition has been used in the phenomenological literature to outline an understanding of health and illness as states where the body stays unnoticed versus resurfaces to our attention as dysfunctional. Using examples from an ongoing interview study, I argue for an understanding of the dialectical interplay between body and world in our awareness, and how it can be understood as an approaching or distancing movement to body and world. I furthermore describe how the interplay between body and world effects and is effected by our existence in health and illness. Finally, I suggest what implications this new way of understanding the lived body has for health care practice in general, and for the development of a person‐centred care in particular. I suggest that we leave the dichotomous understanding of subjective and objective perspectives behind, and start to investigate how we move between different kinds of body awareness in health and illness. Illness, as a situation where that which has been taken for granted becomes questioned, can be said to be characterized by mistrust, and by a distancing from world and body. It is thus of importance for caregivers to provide the time, space and trusting atmosphere needed in order to make the approaching movement possible.
Development of a clinical practice guideline for orthodontic retention
Authors: Wouters Cleo , Lamberts Toon A. , Kuijpers‐Jagtman Anne Marie , Renkema Anne Marie
Published: February 2019

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To develop a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for orthodontic retention (OR).

Materials and Methods

The CPG was developed according to the AGREE II instrument and EBRO (Dutch methodology for evidence‐based guideline development). Reporting was done according the RIGHT statement. A Task Force developed clinical questions regarding OR. To answer these questions, a systematic literature search in PubMed and EMBASE was performed. Two independent researchers identified and selected studies, assessed risk of bias using Cochrane RoB tool and rated quality of evidence using GRADE. The Task Force formulated considerations and recommendations after discussing the evidence. The concept CPG was sent for commentary to all relevant stakeholders.

Result

One systematic review—with 15 studies—met the inclusion criteria. In case of low evidence and lack of outcome measures, expert‐based considerations were developed. Over four meetings, the Task Force reached consensus on considerations and recommendations, after which the concept CPG was ready for the commentary phase. After processing the comments, the CPG was presented to the Dutch Association of Orthodontists, whereafter authorization followed.

Limitations

The paucity of evidence‐based studies concerning OR and the reporting of measurable patient outcomes.

Conclusion

This CPG offers practitioner recommendations for best practice regarding OR, may reduce variation between practices and assists with patient aftercare. A carefully chosen retention procedure for individual patients, combined with clear information and communication between orthodontist, dentist and patient will contribute to long‐term maintenance of orthodontic treatment results.
Allergen immunotherapy for IgE‐mediated food allergy: There is a measure in everything to a proper proportion of therapy
Authors: Pajno Giovanni Battista , Castagnoli Riccardo , Muraro Antonella , Alvaro‐Lozano Montserrat , Akdis Cezmi A. , Akdis Műbeccel , Arasi Stefania
Published: February 2019

IgE‐mediated food allergy (FA) is a potentially life‐threatening condition with a negative impact on quality of life and an increasing prevalence in westernized countries in the recent two decades. A strict avoidance of the triggering food(s) represents the current standard approach. However, an elimination diet may be difficult and frustrating, in particular for common foods, (eg, milk, egg, and peanut). Food allergy immunotherapy (FA‐AIT) may provide an active treatment that enables to increase the amount of food that the patient can intake without reaction during treatment (ie, desensitization), and reduces the risk of potential life‐threatening allergic reaction in the event of accidental ingestion. However, several gaps need still to be filled. A memorable Latin orator stated: “Est modus in rebus” (Horace, Sermones I, 1, 106‐07). This sentence remembers that there is a measure in everything to a proper proportion of therapy. The common sense of measure should find application in each stage of treatment. A personalized approaching should consider the specific willing and features of each patient. Efforts are devoted to improve the efficacy, the safety but also the quality of life of patients suffering from FA. In the near future, it will be important to clarify immunologic pathways of FA‐AIT, and to identify reliable biomarkers in order to recognize the most suitable candidates to FA‐AIT and algorithms for treatments tailored on well‐characterized subpopulations of patients.
Population dynamics of the potato cyst nematode, Globodera pallida, in relation to temperature, potato cultivar and nematicide application
Authors: Kaczmarek A. M. , Back M. , Blok V. C.
Published: February 2019

The impact of increasing temperatures on the population dynamics of the soil‐dwelling nematode Globodera pallida, a persistent and economically important pest of potatoes, was investigated. The reproductive factor (final population⁄initial population) and length of life cycle were found to be temperature sensitive. Pot experiments performed over 4 months allowed comparison of the effect on development of G. pallida of two temperature regimes: an average temperature comparable to current field conditions (14.3 °C) and an average temperature above current field conditions (17.3 °C). A larger second generation of juveniles was observed at 17.3 °C compared to 14.3 °C. Multiplication of G. pallida at field sites in Shropshire and East Lothian (average soil temperatures of 15.5 and 14.1 °C, respectively, during potato cropping) was also examined. A quantitative PCR assay and visual examination of roots were used to monitor the dynamics of the G. pallida populations in both field sites at 4‐weekly intervals. Four cultivars, Desirée, Cara, Maris Piper and Estima, were grown with and without nematicide treatments. Nematicide treatments suppressed population increases at both sites. Females were observed on the roots of cvs Cara and Desirée at the end of the growing season in Shropshire, but not at East Lothian, and are likely to represent a second generation.
Novel digital image analysis using fractal dimension for assessment of skin radiance
Authors: Haeri Morteza , Phamduy Theresa , Cafone Nina , Turkileri Kubra , Velkov Diane
Published: February 2019

Background

Despite a strong desire to quantify skin radiance in the field of cosmetics, there does not exist a robust method to characterize it. Classical shine that quantifies the specular reflection from skin has been commonly used as the metric to characterize radiance. However, it does not always correlate with the perceived radiance as there are many other parameters that inform radiance perception including spatial distribution of shine and color homogeneity.

Materials and methods

In this work, we propose a novel method using fractal analysis to better characterize radiance by considering the spatial heterogeneity of pixel intensities as well as color evenness. A simulated image library (nine images) from very dull to very bright was created using bare face images of 20 panelists. Product images taken post‐product usage were ranked along this library by finding the image in the library that most resembles the product image by our algorithm as well as experts. Additionally, classical shine and color measurements were made as benchmarks.

Results

Our results confirm a strong correlation (R2 = 0.99) between the expert radiance rankings and the rankings by fractal dimension algorithm. The new algorithm offers an improved product differentiation compared with classical shine or color measurements.

Conclusion

Fractal dimension calculation offers higher sensitivity and resolution compared with other descriptors such as classical shine or color heterogeneity. In cases where the image rank is dominated by pixel intensities rather than color evenness, the image ranks resulting from calculating the fractal dimension is comparable with use of classical shine as the ranking parameter.
Can Crime Foster Social Participation as Conflict Can?*
Authors: Nussio Enzo
Published: February 2019

Objective

Recent literature indicates that exposure to conflict can foster participation. Scholars often point to the social dynamics related to conflict to explain this finding. This article examines individual coping as alternative explanation. It should influence victims of violence independently of the origin of victimization.

Methods

Using data from four survey waves in Colombia conducted between 2013 and 2015 (N = 5,536), victims of conflict actors are compared to victims of common delinquency with fixed effects regression analysis.

Results

Both conflict and crime victims show elevated levels of participation in social organizations across a series of model specifications.

Conclusion

Theories related to the social dynamics of conflict cannot explain why crime victims show similarly elevated levels of participation as conflict victims. Individual coping theory provides an alternative. According to this theory, victims of violence seek support and participation to deal with emotional stress independent of the source of victimization.
Sharing soil knowledge and evaluating progress in the New South Wales Soil Knowledge Network
Authors: McInnes‐Clarke Sally K. , Jenkins Brian R. , Rawson Andrew , Murphy Brian W.
Published: February 2019

The New South Wales (NSW) Soil Knowledge Network (SKN) is a group of retired soil specialist volunteers, who strive to promote the importance of soils through knowledge and expertise. The Soil Knowledge Network is unique and represents a new direction in knowledge sharing using the passion of recently retired soil scientists to support new and early career soil scientists. The terms ‘legacy science’ and ‘sharing legacy knowledge’ are used here to describeSKNactivities. This paper reflects on the progress of theSKNand assesses its positive impact on raising the awareness and understanding of soils using qualitative examples from workshops, a survey of soil team coaches at the 2018 National soil judging competition, and metrics from social media and online resources.SKNsuccesses and learning experiences are discussed along with notions of trust, credibility and the importance of people in delivering positive outcomes.
Zika transmission patterns: a meta‐review
Authors: Runge‐Ranzinger S. , Morrison A. C. , Manrique‐Saide P. , Horstick O.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To assesses what is known and identify knowledge gaps for Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission patterns.

Methods

Meta‐review searching the databases BioSys; Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialised Register and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; EMBASE; Google Scholar; LILACS; MEDLINE (PubMed); Web of Science; and WHOLIS with the term ‘ZIKA’. Systematic reviews and reviews specifying the search methods and describing potential modes of transmission were eligible for analysis.

Results

Of 5,401 hits for ‘Zika’, 44 studies were assessed and 11 included after applying in‐ and exclusion criteria: six systematic reviews and five reviews with specified methods, covering all ways of possible transmission. Results can be grouped into transmission routes with good evidence and agreement between the studies (evidence on vector, mother‐to‐child and sexual transmission) and transmission routes with limited evidence. Transmission by breastfeeding, intrapartum, by animal bites or laboratory‐based remains inconclusive, as these routes are suggested by single studies only. The risk of transfusion transmission is described and public health measures for safe transfusion should be taken as available.

Conclusion

Our results imply the need for public health measures to limit transmission via vectors, mother‐to‐child, sexual transmission and blood transfusion. Also needed are long‐term prospective cohort studies covering periods of active Zika virus transmission and measuring epidemiological parameters to establish evidence on other routes of transmission; seroprevalence studies; transmission dynamics modelling and modelling health impacts by different modes of transmission.
“They say it's more aggressive in black women”: Biosociality, breast cancer, and becoming a population “at risk”
Authors: Brown Tim , Dyck Isabel , Greenhough Beth , Raven‐Ellison Menah , Ornstein Mark , Duffy Stephen W.
Published: February 2019

Recent geographical scholarship has drawn attention to the ways in which the practice of public health constructs particular bodies and populations as “risky.” From a biopolitical perspective, this status of being “at risk” offers the basis for an emergent biosociality, groups brought together by a shared vulnerability to disease, which then forms the basis for both state‐led public health interventions and community‐driven advocacy and support. Critics, however, suggest a focus on biosociality can act to obscure other dimensions of individual and community identity, dimensions that can play a key role in determining both health status and the success of healthcare interventions. This paper draws together insights from geography, anthropology, and sociology with empirical evidence from focus groups collected as part of an evaluation of a breast cancer awareness DVD distributed in the London borough of Hackney. We explore the extent to which the DVD, by defining a specific group (black women aged 25–50) as being at increased risk of developing more severe forms of breast cancer at a younger age, led to the formation of a biosocial community. Themes emerging from the analysis of focus group transcripts present a complex picture. At times our participants clearly aligned themselves with this biosocial collective, drawing on a shared Black political identity, assumptions of a common African genetic heritage, experiences of diaspora, and perceived similarities in lifestyles and bodily norms. At other times, however, this shared sense of belonging fragmented in light of perceived differences in culture, lifestyle, and community which nuanced both participants’ sense of being “at risk” and how they might (or might not) seek to manage that risk. Our findings suggest that biosociality is a fragile and heterogeneous accomplishment, with implications for the way we practise medical and social science research, design community‐targeted public health interventions and conceptualise risk.
Thyroid hormone receptor function in maturing ovine cardiomyocytes
Authors: Chattergoon Natasha N. , Louey Samantha , Scanlan Thomas , Lindgren Isa , Giraud George D. , Thornburg Kent L.
Published: February 2019

Key points

Plasma thyroid hormone (tri‐iodo‐l‐thyronine; T3) concentrations rise near the end of gestation and is known to inhibit proliferation and stimulate maturation of cardiomyocytes before birth.

Thyroid hormone receptors are required for the action of thyroid hormone in fetal cardiomyocytes. Loss of thyroid hormone receptor (TR)α1 abolishes T3 signalling via extracellular signal‐related kinase and Akt in fetal cardiomyocytes.

The expression of TRα1 and TRβ1 in ovine fetal myocardium increases with age, although TRα1 levels always remain higher than those of TRβ1.

Near term fetal cardiac myocytes are more sensitive than younger myocytes to thyroid receptor blockade by antagonist, NH3, and to the effects of TRα1/α2 short interfering RNA.

Although T3 is known to abrogate ovine cardiomyocyte proliferation stimulated by insulin‐like growth factor 1, this effect is mediated via the genomic action of thyroid hormone receptors, with little evidence for non‐genomic mechanisms.

We have previously shown that the late‐term rise in tri‐iodo‐l‐thyronine (T3) in fetal sheep leads to the inhibition of proliferation and promotion of maturation in cardiomyocytes. The present study was designed to determine whether these T3‐induced changes are mediated via thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) or by non‐genomic mechanisms. Fetal cardiomyocytes were isolated from 102 ± 3 and 135 ± 1 days of gestational age (dGA) sheep (n = 7 per age; term ∼145 dGA). Cells were treated with T3 (1.5 nm), insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 (1 μg mL–1) or a combination in the presence of TR antagonist NH3 (100 nm) or following short interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of TRα1/α2. Proliferation was quantified by 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) uptake (10 μm). Western blots measured protein levels of extracellular signal‐related kinase (ERK), Akt, TRα1/β1 and p21. Age specific levels of TRα1/β1 were measured in normal hearts from fetuses [95 dGA (n = 8), 135 dGA (n = 7)], neonates (n = 8) and adult ewes (n = 7). TRα1 protein levels were consistently >50% more than TRβ1 at each gestational age (P < 0.05). T3 reduced IGF‐1 stimulated proliferation by ∼50% in 100 dGA and by ∼75% in 135 dGA cardiomyocytes (P < 0.05). NH3 blocked the T3 + IGF‐1 reduction of BrdU uptake without altering the phosphorylation of ERK or Akt at both ages. NH3 did not suppress T3‐induced p21 expression in 100 dGA cardiomyocytes in 135 dGA cardiomyocytes, NH3 alone reduced BrdU uptake (−28%, P < 0.05), as well as T3‐induced p21 (−75%, P < 0.05). In both ages, siRNA knockdown of TRα1/α2 blocked the T3 + IGF‐1 reduction of BrdU uptake and dramatically reduced ERK and Akt signalling in 135 dGA cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, TRs are required for normal proliferation and T3 signalling in fetal ovine cardiomyocytes, with the sensitivity to TR blockade being age‐dependent.
Discussion: “Unsteady RANS Simulations of Wells Turbine Under Transient Flow Conditions” (Hu and Li, ASME J. Offshore Mech. Arct. Eng., 140(1), p. 011901)
Authors: Ghisu Tiziano , Cambuli Francesco , Puddu Pierpaolo , Virdis Irene , Carta Mario
Published: February 2019

The work by Hu and Li (2018, “Unsteady RANS Simulations of Wells Turbine Under Transient Flow Conditions,” ASME J. Offshore Mech. Arct. Eng., 140(1), p. 011901) presents the numerical simulation of a high-solidity Wells turbine by means of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) (Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS)) approach. A key aspect highlighted by the authors is the presence of a hysteretic loop in the machine's performance curves, due (according to their explanation) to the interaction of vortices shed by the blade with the blade circulation, which is responsible for the aerodynamic forces. It is our opinion that this work contains some serious errors that invalidate the results. In this brief discussion, we aim to demonstrate how the hysteresis found and discussed by the authors should not be present in the turbine analyzed in Hu and Li (2018, “Unsteady RANS Simulations of Wells Turbine Under Transient Flow Conditions,” ASME J. Offshore Mech. Arct. Eng., 140(1), p. 011901), and it is unlikely to be present in any Wells turbine. The fact that Hu and Li find hysteresis in their simulations is most likely caused by numerical errors due to an insufficient temporal discretization. This and other inaccuracies could have been avoided with a more careful consideration of the available literature.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Study of R134a Flow Boiling Characteristics in a Circular Tube under Overload
Authors: Xu Yu , Chen Yafeng , Li Guohua
Published: February 2019

Three-dimensional numerical study of R134a flow boiling under overload was conducted based on the VOF model. A series of simulations were implemented with a 1.002 mm circular tube under six gravity levels ranging from 1 to 15 g and three directions (θ) ranging from 0° to 180° with mass fluxes of 200, 350, and 500 kg/m2 s, outlet vapor qualities of 0.041, 0.082, and 0.164, and saturation pressure of 0.71MPa. The gravity conditions were introduced into the momentum equation during the simulations. Comparisons among flow boiling characteristics under different gravity levels and directions are made, and significant effects of overload are found. With the increasing overload, the vapor phase distributions of flow boiling gradually turn into forms similar to ellipsoids/spheres, stratified flow, and elongated slugs, at θ = 0°, 90°, and 180°, respectively. Accordingly, the heat transfer coefficient keeps almost stable at θ = 0° and 180°, but decreases obviously at θ = 90°; the frictional pressure drop decreases at θ = 0°, decreases slightly at θ = 90°, but increases at θ = 180°. Making θ away from 90° is a potential method to avoid the flow boiling heat transfer deterioration under overload.
Charge extraction via graded doping of hole transport layers gives highly luminescent and stable metal halide perovskite devices
Authors: Abdi-Jalebi Mojtaba , Ibrahim Dar M. , Senanayak Satyaprasad P. , Sadhanala Aditya , Andaji-Garmaroudi Zahra , Pazos-Outón Luis M. , Richter Johannes M. , Pearson Andrew J. , Sirringhaus Henning , Grätzel Michael , Friend Richard H.
Published: February 2019

Charge extraction via graded hole transport layers boosts luminescence, lifetime, and efficiency of perovskite solar cells.
Highly crystalline Ni-doped FeP/carbon hollow nanorods as all-pH efficient and durable hydrogen evolving electrocatalysts
Authors: Lu Xue Feng , Yu Le , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: February 2019

Ni-doped FeP/carbon hollow nanorods exhibit excellent electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance over the full pH range.
A Stringent Analysis of Polyphosphate Dynamics in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Downey Michael
Published: February 2019

During stress, bacterial cells activate a conserved pathway called the stringent response that promotes survival. Polyphosphates are long chains of inorganic phosphates that modulate this response in diverse bacterial species.
Neuroblastoma with an unusual ovarian metastasis in a 5-year-old girl
Authors: Steytler Carla , Darwish Ahmed A , Popov Sergey , Morley-Jacob Cathy , Aronson Daniel C
Published: February 2019

Neuroblastoma metastasizing to the ovary is rare. We report the 10th case and review the scarce literature. A 5-year-old girl with stage M neuroblastoma presented with an upper abdominal and a pelvic mass. Evaluation after induction showed very good tumour response with three remaining localisations: two abdominal and one pelvic. At gross total resection, the pelvic mass appeared to be the enlarged and abnormal right ovary and was removed completely. Pathology showed an ovarian metastasis. On completion of her postoperative treatment, she achieved complete remission. Literature review showed that underdiagnosing of ovarian metastasis in neuroblastoma is very likely.
MLLrearranged acute lymphoblastic leukaemia presenting as a maxillary sinus mass with a discordant immunophenotypic profile from the bone marrow
Authors: Wang Yunzu Michele , Mo Jun Qin , Kuo Dennis John , Wong Victor
Published: February 2019

We describe an unusual case of pre-B lymphoblastic leukaemia presenting with a unilateral maxillary sinus mass in which biopsies of the primary mass and the bone marrow demonstrated conflicting immunophenotyping results. The extramedullary mass was consistent with a precursor B-cell malignancy, while the bone marrow was initially reported as a possible mature B-cell malignancy. The treatments for the two are fundamentally different, which necessitated a delay in the initiation of his chemotherapy until a clear diagnosis was made. Mixed lineage leukaemia gene rearrangement was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridisation in both the primary mass and bone marrow, which unified the diagnosis as pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukaemia given the common cytogenetic feature.
Moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis : a systematic review of the outcomes in the USA and European Union-5
Authors: Sarri Grammati , Guo Yelan , Iheanacho Ike , Puelles Jorge
Published: February 2019

Background and objectives

The global incidence of hospitalisation due to acute pancreatitis (AP) has been rising in the recent decades. In the USA alone, there was a 13.2% increase between 2009 and 2012 compared with 2002–2005. There remains a lack of approved treatments to prevent disease progression, leaving many liable to developing complications that include multisystem organ failure (OF) and death. This therapeutic deficit raises questions about the scale of the current burden of illness (BOI) associated with severe forms of AP. The aim of the systematic literature review (SLR) was to assess clinical, humanistic, and economic outcomes associated with moderately severe AP (MSAP) and severe AP (SAP) in the USA and the European Union-5 (EU-5).

Methods

Systematic searches were conducted in MEDLINE and Embase to identify studies published in English (between 2007 and 2017) that reported on the BOI of MSAP and/or SAP. Manual searches of ‘grey’ literature sources were also conducted.

Results

The SLR identified 19 studies which indicated that 15%–20% of patients with AP progress to more severe forms of the disease, up to 10.5% of those with SAP require surgery for complications, and up to 40% die during hospitalisation. By contrast, there appears to be a lack of data on the extent to which SAP affects patients’ quality of life.

Conclusion

The available evidence clearly demonstrates that the current management for MSAP and SAP in the USA and EU-5 does not adequately meet patients’ needs. Early identification and intervention for AP is crucial, given the evidence of high rates of morbidity and an associated economic burden that is considerable. Since many patients with the condition present to hospitals at a point when multisystem OF or death is highly likely, there is a particularly urgent need for effective treatment options to prevent disease progression.
Can differences in length of stay between Dutch university hospitals and other hospitals be explained by patient characteristics? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ghielen Janine , Cihangir Sezgin , Hekkert Karin , Borghans Ine , Kool Rudolf Bertijn
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The indicator unexpectedly long length of stay (UL-LOS) is used to gain insight into quality and safety of care in hospitals. The calculation of UL-LOS takes patients’ age, main diagnosis and main procedure into account. University hospitals have relatively more patients with a UL-LOS than other hospitals. Our main research question is whether the high number of patients with a UL-LOS in university hospitals is caused by differences in additional patient characteristics between university hospitals and other hospitals.

Design

We performed a cross-sectional study and used administrative data from 1 510 627 clinical admissions in 87 Dutch hospitals. Patients who died in hospital, stayed in hospital for 100 days or longer or whose country of residence was not the Netherlands were excluded from the UL-LOS indicator. We identified which patient groups were treated only in university hospitals or only in other hospitals and which were treated in both hospital types. For these last patient groups, we added supplementary patient characteristics to the current model to determine the effect on the UL-LOS model.

Results

Patient groups treated in both hospital types differed in terms of detailed primary diagnosis, socioeconomic status, source of admission, type of admission and amount of Charlson comorbidities. Nevertheless, when adding these characteristics to the current model, university hospitals still have a significantly higher mean UL-LOS score compared with other hospitals (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The difference in UL-LOS scores between both hospital types remains after adding patient characteristics in which both hospital types differ. We conclude that the high UL-LOS scores in university hospitals are not caused by the investigated additional patient characteristics that differ between university and other hospitals. Patients might stay relatively longer in university hospitals due to differences in work processes because of their education and research tasks or financing differences of both hospital types.