bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and its effect on gametogenesis and early pregnancy
Authors: Singh Bhuchitra , Gornet Megan , Sims Holly , Kisanga Edwina , Knight Zachary , Segars James
Published: September 2020

SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and pregnancy has been the topic of hundreds of publications over the last several months; however, few studies have focused on the implications of infection in early pregnancy and reproductive tissues. Here, we analyzed available evidence pertaining to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, in early pregnancy, and in reproductive tissues. We searched PubMed and Embase databases in accordance with guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) for publications from inception to June 4, 2020. Four reviewers screened titles and abstracts and obtained full‐text articles for analysis. Sixty‐two studies were included in the review. Biological plausibility for infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 exists in testis, ovaries, and placenta as they express ACE2 receptor activity. In males, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection could lead to functional abnormalities leading to spermatogenic failure and male infertility. In females, an alteration of the ACE2 cascade via SARS‐CoV‐2 infection could lead to impairment in important follicular and luteal processes. There is also evidence of significant placental pathology in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, but it is unclear what effects there may be for early pregnancy, though available data suggest less severe effects compared to other respiratory virus outbreaks. Further investigation is needed regarding SARS‐CoV‐2 in reproductive function and early pregnancy.
Lipiodol flush under ultrasound guidance in Australia
Authors: Sekhon Jasmin , Lee Emmeline , Lo Glen , Woolcock Jane , Ramkrishnan Jayshree , Menezes Melody , Tan Shawn , Meagher Simon , Murphy Anthony
Published: September 2020

Background

Lipiodol tubal flushing is offered to select subfertile women primarily to confirm tubal patency and to increase pregnancy rates.

Aims

To investigate the safety of hystero‐salpingo contrast sonography (HyCoSy) using Lipiodol flush (through frequency of adverse events and mean recalled pain score) and secondarily to quantify pregnancy rates.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective observational Phase 1 study of subfertile women in three centres across Australia between June 2017 and June 2019. Cases were identified from medical records, and women telephoned to assess adverse outcomes, procedure tolerability and confirm pregnancy outcomes within six months from procedure.

Results

A total of 325 cases were identified; 14 were excluded due to incomplete or abandoned procedure, 32 were lost to follow‐up, leaving 279 for analysis. Fourteen women (5% overall) experienced mild vasovagal reactions, with one case of infection and no reports of anaphylaxis or allergy. There were 141 conceptions reported (51%) within six months after Lipiodol flush, and an ongoing pregnancy in 43% (119) of women. For women with ongoing pregnancies, 55% (78/119) conceived spontaneously, and 45% (63/119) via artificial reproductive technology. Mean recalled pain score was 5.7 (SD 3.2; range 0‐10) at a single site.

Conclusions

This Phase 1 study has indicated that Lipiodol flush using HyCoSy may be a safe and efficacious alternative to hysterosalpingography in the workup for infertility. The low adverse effect profile observed in this study coupled with a substantial ongoing pregnancy rate indicates that further investigation of Lipiodol under HyCoSy is warranted.
Aboriginal dental assistants can safely apply fluoride varnish in regional, rural and remote primary schools in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Skinner John , Dimitropoulos Yvonne , Masoe Angela , Yaacoub Albert , Byun Roy , Rambaldini Boe , Christie Vita , Gwynne Kylie
Published: September 2020

Problem

There are significant inequalities in oral health status between Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal children in Australia, particularly where the children have insufficient access to various forms of fluoride. There has been a growing interest in seeing fluoride varnish programs used more widely for Aboriginal children due to proven effectiveness. Despite this, there has been limited scale‐up of these programs in Australia. This study investigates the feasibility of using Aboriginal dental assistants to provide regular fluoride varnish applications for Aboriginal children in the primary school setting.

Design

A mixed‐methods approach including auditing the number of Aboriginal dental assistants were trained and then approved by the NSW Chief Health Officer to apply fluoride varnish, and collection and reporting of participant data on the each of the fluoride varnish days in the local patient management system.

Setting

Six Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services from regional NSW were invited to participate in the study. They also nominated a primary school and an Aboriginal dental assistant to participate in the study.

Key measures for improvement

Data were obtained from four ‘fluoride varnish days’ held at the schools over a 12‐month period between December 2017 and December 2018. The number of Aboriginal dental assistants were trained and then approved by the NSW Chief Health Officer to apply fluoride varnish is also reported.

Strategies for change

In total, 8 Aboriginal dental assistants were trained to apply fluoride varnish during the study. Overall, students participating in the study received three or more fluoride varnish applications.

Effects of change

Results showed that Aboriginal dental assistants are able to safely and effectively apply fluoride varnish in a school setting with remote supervision.

Lessons learnt

This program can be scaled at the state level in NSW, and this could provide the basis for a nationally consistent program. Initial discussions have been held with several jurisdictions to lead this process via the Australian Health Ministers Advisory Council (AHMAC) based on the results of this study and the support of key stakeholders. The Poche Centre as part of its scale‐up planning for the Fluoride Varnish Program is examining the feasibility of including the apply fluoride varnish skillset in its existing Aboriginal Dental Assistant Scholarship Program.
Relation of atrial electromechanical delay to P‐wave dispersion on surface ECG using vector velocity imaging in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mahfouz Badran Hala , Soltan Ghada , Eltahan Eslam , Yacoub Magdi H. , Faheem Naglaa
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Heterogeneity of structural and electrophysiologic properties of atrial myocardium is common characteristic in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). We assessed the dispersion of atrial refractoriness on surface ECG using P‐wave dispersion (PWD) and its relation to atrial electromechanical functions using vector velocity imaging (VVI) in HCM population.

Methods

Seventy‐nine HCM patients (mean age: 43.7 ± 13 years, 67% male) were compared with 25 healthy individuals as control. P‐wave durations, Pmax and Pmin, P‐wave dispersion (PWD), and P terminal force (PTF) were measured from 12‐lead ECG. LA segmental delay (TTP‐d) and dispersion (TTP‐SD) of electromechanical activation were derived from atrial strain rate curves.

Results

HCM patients had longer PR interval, PW duration, higher PWD, PTF, QTc compared to control (p < .001). HCM patients were classified according to presence of PWD into two groups, group I with PWD > 46 ms (n = 25) and group II PWD ≤ 46 ms (n = 54). Group I showed higher prevalence of female gender, higher PTF, QTc interval, left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction, p < .01, LVOT gradient (p < .001), LV mass index (p < .01), E/E' (p < .01), and severe mitral regurgitation (p < .001). Moreover, PWD was associated with increased atrial electromechanical delay (TTP‐d) and LA mechanical dyssynchrony (TTP‐SD), p < .001. LA segmental delay and dispersion of electromechanical activation were distinctly higher among HCM patient.

Conclusion

PWD is simple ECG criterion, and it is associated with more severe HCM phenotype and LA electromechanical delay while PTF is linked only to atrial remodeling.
Combined evaluation of ambulatory‐based late potentials and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia to predict arrhythmic events in patients with previous myocardial infarction: A Japanese noninvasive electrocardiographic risk stratification of sudden cardiac death (JANIES) substudy
Authors: Hashimoto Kenichi , Amino Mari , Yoshioka Koichiro , Kasamaki Yuji , Kinoshita Toshio , Ikeda Takanori
Published: September 2020

Background

Noninvasive electrocardiographic (ECG) markers are promising arrhythmic risk stratification tools for identifying sudden cardiac death. However, little is known about the usefulness of noninvasive ECG markers derived from ambulatory ECGs (AECG) in patients with previous myocardial infarction (pMI). We aimed to determine whether the ECG markers derived from AECG can predict serious cardiac events in patients with pMI.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed 104 patients with pMI (88 males, age 66 ± 11 years), evaluating late potentials (LPs), heart rate turbulence, and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) derived from AECG. The primary endpoint was the documentation of ventricular fibrillation or sustained ventricular tachycardia.

Results

Eleven patients reached the primary endpoint during a follow‐up period of 25 ± 9.5 months. Of the 104 patients enrolled in this study, LP positive in worst values (w‐LPs) and NSVT were observed in 25 patients, respectively. In the arrhythmic event group, the worst LP values and/or NSVT were found in eight patients (7.6%). The positive predictive and negative predictive values of the combined assessment with w‐LPs and NSVT were 56% and 94%, respectively, for predicting ventricular lethal arrhythmia. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that the combination of w‐LPs and NSVT had a poorer event‐free period than negative LPs (p < .0001). In the multivariate analysis, the combined assessment of w‐LPs and NSVT was a significant predictor of arrhythmic events (hazard ratio = 14.1, 95% confidence intervals: 3.4–58.9, p < .0001).

Conclusion

Combined evaluation of w‐LPs and NSVT was a powerful risk stratification strategy for predicting arrhythmia that can lead to sudden cardiac death in patients with pMI.
B3 lesion upgrade rates in a tertiary Australian breast centre: a 8‐year experience (2012–2019)
Authors: Huang Yang Y. , Park Hyerin , McLaren Sally , Thirunavukkarasu Palan , Lin Joshua T. W. , Rajakaruna Ramela , Dhillon Ravinder , Ponniah Ananda K.
Published: September 2020

Background

B3 breast lesions identified on core needle biopsy have uncertain malignant potential. Traditional management of these lesions has been surgical excision, but there is growing interest in less invasive and more cost‐effective alternatives such as vacuum‐assisted excisional biopsy (VAEB). Determining the rate of malignant upgrade for B3 lesions is important as it may identify low‐risk lesions where VAEB could be considered.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of women undergoing an elective excisional biopsy for a B3 lesion identified on core needle biopsy at a tertiary Australian breast centre. The pre‐operative biopsy diagnosis and subsequent excisional biopsy diagnosis were used to calculate the proportion of cases where the diagnosis was upgraded to malignancy.

Results

A total of 299 eligible patients were identified. Pre‐operative diagnosis of papillary lesion with atypia was associated with the highest upgrade rate (50%, n = 12). The next highest upgrade rates occurred in those with flat epithelial atypia (37.50%, n = 8); atypical ductal hyperplasia (24.71%, n = 85); lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)/atypical lobular hyperplasia with calcification (17.65%, n = 17); and papillary lesion without atypia (4.72%, n = 106). Patients with radial scar (n = 51), classical LCIS without calcification (n = 7) and mucocoele‐like lesion (n = 8) had a 0% upgrade rate.

Conclusion

VAEB may be appropriate for low malignant risk lesions such as papillary lesion without atypia, mucocoele‐like lesion and radial scar lesion without atypia. Open‐surgical‐excisional biopsy remains appropriate for high upgrade lesions such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, papillary lesion with atypia, flat epithelial atypia and classical LCIS with calcification. Long‐term prospective randomized multicentre studies and continuing multidisciplinary approach is recommended for future clinical implementation.
Longer distance between umbilical cord insertions is associated with spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence
Authors: Wang Xueju , Li Luyao , Zhao Yangyu , Wei Yuan , Yuan Pengbo
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The aim of the study was to investigate the placental characteristics in spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence.

Material and methods

A retrospective case‐control study of spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence, twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome and normal monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies was performed. The primary outcome was placental characteristics.

Results

The prevalence of artery‐artery anastomoses in spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence and twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome groups was significantly lower than in the normal monochorionic diamniotic twin group (40.0% vs 33.3% vs 88.8%, respectively, P < .001). The total number of vascular anastomoses in the spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence group (with range given in parentheses) was significantly lower than in the two control groups (3 [1‐6] vs 5 [1‐14] vs 6 [1‐20], P = .001/<.001/.794). The number of artery‐vein anastomoses in the spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence was significantly lower than in the two control groups (2 [1‐5] vs 4 [1‐13] vs 5 [1‐19], P = .011/.001/1.000). The total diameter of all vascular anastomoses was significantly smaller in the spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence than in the two control groups (0.9 mm [0.3‐4.7] vs 5.2 mm [0.8‐24.6] vs 7.3 mm [1.0‐25.1], P < .001/<.001/.104), as was the total diameter of artery‐to‐artery anastomoses (0.5 mm [0.3‐1.3] vs 2.0 mm [0.5‐11.8] vs 2.3 mm [0.7‐9.7], P = .003/<.001/1.000) and the total diameter of artery‐to‐vein anastomoses (0.8 mm [0.3‐2.1] vs 4.6 mm [0.8‐15.3] vs 4.0 mm [0.2‐21.8], P < .001/<.001/1.000). The ratio between the distance of the two umbilical cords insertion points and the placental maximum diameter in the spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence group was significantly larger than in the two control groups (0.78 [0.49‐0.99] vs 0.64 [0.32‐1.00] vs 0.55 [0.05‐1.00], P = .033/<.001/.138).

Conclusions

In spontaneous twin anemia polycythemia sequence placentas, the number of superficial vascular anastomoses is lower, their diameter is smaller and the distance between the two umbilical cord insertion points is longer.
Anterior lens capsule: biomechanical properties and biomedical engineering perspectives
Authors: Huang Dandan , Xu Chenjia , Guo Ruru , Ji Jian , Liu Wei
Published: September 2020

Anterior lens capsule, as the thickest basement membrane in the body, has its unique physiology characteristics. In ophthalmology, many attempts have been made to culture different kinds of cells including iris pigment epithelial cells, retinal pigment epithelial cells, corneal epithelium and endothelium cells, trabecular meshwork cells etc and anterior lens capsule has been confirmed to be served as an excellent scaffold for the growth and expansion of different ocular cells. Furthermore, anterior lens capsule also has unique potential in gestation evaluation and the treatment of various ocular diseases, including corneal ulcer, glaucoma, age‐related macular degeneration and macular hole, etc. Here, we provide an overview of the biomechanical properties and biomedical engineering perspectives of anterior lens capsule.
Effects of recording sequence on flicker electroretinographics recorded with natural pupils corrected for pupil area
Authors: Sugawara Asako , Kato Kumiko , Nagashima Ryunosuke , Ikesugi Kengo , Sugimoto Masahiko , Matsubara Hisashi , McCulloch Daphne , Kondo Mineo
Published: September 2020

Background

A new handheld electroretinographic (ERG) recording system can record ERGs without mydriasis. However, this RETeval system cannot record ERGs from both eyes simultaneously. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine whether the sequence of the ERG recordings will alter the results.

Methods

We studied 30 eyes of 30 healthy subjects. The flicker ERGs were recorded with the RETeval system without mydriasis and were elicited by 8, 16 and 32 photopic Td‐s. The flicker ERGs were recorded at two sessions. Session 1, the ERGs were recorded from the right eye and then the left eye, and Session 2, ERGs were recorded from the left eye then the right eye. We compared the implicit times, amplitudes and pupil diameters of the right eye between these two sessions.

Results

The implicit time of the flicker ERGs was significantly shorter (p < 0.001), and the pupil diameters were significantly smaller (p = 0.013) at Session 2 than Session 1 but only for the lower stimulus intensity of eight Td‐s. There was a significant correlation of the differences in the implicit times and the differences in the pupil diameter between the two sessions (r = 0.406, p = 0.026).

Conclusions

The results indicate that the implicit times of the fundamental components of RETeval flicker ERGs can be affected by the sequence of recordings for lower stimulus intensities. This was most likely due to the differences of the pupil diameter during the recordings. We recommend that stronger stimuli be used to record the RETeval flicker ERGs to minimize the effects of the sequence of recordings.
The prognostic value of C‐reactive protein for children with pneumonia
Authors: Barak‐Corren Yuval , Horovits Yair , Erlichman Matti , Picard Elie
Published: September 2020

Aim

To measure the prognostic value of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and its ability to predict pneumonia‐associated complications.

Methods

A 3.75‐years retrospective cohort analysis of all paediatric emergency department visits with a discharge diagnosis of pneumonia. Visits where CRP was not measured or with a discharge diagnosis of viral pneumonia were excluded. The following five outcomes were studied: hospitalisation, presence of parapneumonic effusion (PPE), placement of a chest drain, admission to paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and bacteremia. A multivariate model was constructed and validated using k‐fold cross‐validation.

Results

During the study time period, there were 2561 visits for pneumonia, of which 810 were included in our analysis. The median age of included children was 3.2 years (range 0.2‐17.7). Overall, 38.8% visits ended in hospitalisation, 2.2% required admission to PICU, 15.2% were complicated by a PPE of which 28% required the placement of a chest drain. Statistically significant association was found between CRP levels and each of these outcomes (P < .001). Incorporating CRP within a multivariate prediction model provided an area under the curve of up to 0.96.

Conclusion

CRP can be a useful prognostic marker when evaluating a patient with suspected bacterial pneumonia and could help the paediatrician in identifying patients needing closer follow‐up.
Basic Psychological Need‐Satisfying Activities during the COVID‐19 Outbreak
Authors: Behzadnia Behzad , FatahModares Saeideh
Published: September 2020

Background

The rapidly spreading novel coronavirus outbreak (COVID‐19) worldwide may increase fear and stress, and has a cost for people’s well‐being and their motivation toward activities. In this study, we applied principles from Self‐Determination Theory to develop and test activities to satisfy basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) to enhance the experience of need satisfaction, autonomous self‐regulation, and subjective vitality, and to decrease the experience of need frustration, controlled self‐regulation, amotivation, and perceived stress.

Method

Using a 10‐day experimental research design among an Iranian sample (N = 208, Mage = 23.52, SD = 5.00), we randomly allocated participants to either an experimental (basic psychological need‐satisfying activities intervention, n = 98) or a control (neutral comparison group, n = 110) condition.

Results

Repeated measure ANCOVA showed that participants in the experimental condition reported greater psychological need satisfaction, autonomous self‐regulation, subjective vitality, and lesser psychological need frustration, amotivation, and perceived stress than did participants in the control condition.

Conclusion

We conclude that the intervention was successful in helping participants enhance their motives and well‐being and reduce their stress when life is surrounded by uncertainty and during social distancing restrictions.
Editorial: safety of prenatal exposure to anti‐TNF therapy on postnatal infectious complications
Authors: Duricova Dana , Mitrova Katarina
Published: September 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bröms et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15971
Characterizing the lithic raw materials from Fuente del Trucho (Asque‐Colungo, Huesca): New data about Palaeolithic human mobility in north‐east Iberia
Authors: Sánchez de la Torre M. , Utrilla P. , Montes L. , Domigo R. , Le Bourdonnec F.‐X. , Gratuze B.
Published: September 2020

Fuente del Trucho cave (Asque‐Colungo, Huesca, Spain) is located in the central Pre‐Pyrenean range in north‐east Iberia, in the Arpán ravine, a tributary of the Vero River. The mouth of the cave is 22 m wide and it is oriented to the south‐east. The entrance gives access to a 24 m‐deep hall. Palaeolithic paintings were discovered in the cave in 1978. The Fuente del Trucho art comprises two sectors: the external with some engraved motifs and the internal featuring more than 100 painted motifs distributed in 21 panels. Archaeological works have been undertaken since 1979, identifying several human occupations from the Middle and Upper Palaeolithic. This paper presents results obtained after the analysis of lithic raw materials. The analyses were performed using the classical archaeopetrological approach, which comprises textural, micropalaeontological and petrographical analyses, combined with the application of geochemical methods, using energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (ED‐XRF) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS). The results show that chert and quartzites were the most commonly used rocks. Different types and origins of chert were identified, demonstrating the existence of a wide mobility for lithic raw material procurement during all the Palaeolithic occupations.
T cell gene therapy to treat immunodeficiency
Authors: Panchal, Neelam , Ghosh Sujal , Booth Claire
Published: September 2020

The application of therapeutic T cells for a number of conditions has been developed over the past few decades with notable successes including donor lymphocyte infusions, virus‐specific T cells and more recently CAR‐T cell therapy. Primary immunodeficiencies are monogenetic disorders leading to abnormal development or function of the immune system. Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and, in specific candidate diseases, haematopoietic stem cell gene therapy has been the only definitive treatment option so far. However, autologous gene‐modified T cell therapy may offer a potential cure in conditions primarily affecting the lymphoid compartment. In this review we will highlight several T cell gene addition or gene‐editing approaches in different target diseases with a focus on what we have learnt from clinical experience and promising preclinical studies in primary immunodeficiencies. Functional T cells are required not only for normal immune responses to infection (affected in CD40 ligand deficiency), but also for immune regulation [disrupted in IPEX syndrome (immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X‐Linked) due to dysfunctional FOXP3 and CTLA4 deficiency] or cytotoxicity [defective in X‐lymphoproliferative disease and familial haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) syndromes]. In all these candidate diseases, restoration of T cell function by gene therapy could be of great value.
Tumor‐derived exosomes influence the cell cycle and cell migration of human esophageal cancer cell lines
Authors: Matsumoto Yasunori , Kano Masayuki , Murakami Kentaro , Toyozumi Takeshi , Suito Hiroshi , Takahashi Masahiko , Sekino Nobufumi , Shiraishi Tadashi , Kamata Toshiki , Ryuzaki Takahiro , Hirasawa Soichiro , Kinoshita Kazuya , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: September 2020

Our laboratory previously reported the usefulness as biomarkers of exosomes in the plasma of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. However, the influence of tumor‐derived exosomes on the tumor itself and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We here report changes in the phenotype and gene expression when cancer cells exist in an environment with tumor‐derived exosomes. The exosomes were isolated from the culture medium of human ESCC cells (TE2, T.Tn) by ultracentrifugation; cell proliferation assay, wound‐healing assay, and fluorescence imaging of the cell cycle were performed to clarify the phenotypic changes in the high concentration of tumor‐derived exosomes. Gene expression changes were also assessed by mRNA microarray, and the data were analyzed by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The data revealed that the proliferation of both TE2 and T.Tn was inhibited, and cell migration ability was upregulated in the exosome exposure group (P < .05). Fluorescence imaging using a fluorescent ubiquitination‐based cell cycle indicator expressing ESCC cells revealed that the ratio of G1‐phase cells was significantly increased in the exosome exposure group (P < .05). Findings of the GSEA clarified that high‐density exposure of cancer‐derived exosomes to their parent cancer cells downregulated the expression of genes related to cell proliferation and cell cycle, and upregulated the expression of genes related to actin filament length and extracellular structure organization. In conclusion, an environment of high‐density tumor‐derived exosomes induces changes in the gene expression and phenotype of tumor cells and may lead to tumor progression or malignant transformation.
Clinical benefits of sex steroids given as a priming prior to GH provocative test or as a growth‐promoting therapy in peripubertal growth delays: Results of a retrospective study among ENDO‐ERN centres
Authors: Galazzi Elena , Improda Nicola , Cerbone Manuela , Soranna Davide , Moro Mirella , Fatti Letizia Maria , Zambon Antonella , Bonomi Marco , Salerno Mariacarolina , Dattani Mehul , Persani Luca
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Sex steroids, administered as a priming before GH stimulation tests (GHST) to differentiate between growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or as growth‐promoting therapy using low‐dose sex steroids (LDSS) in CDGP, are much debated. We aimed to compare auxological outcomes of CDGP or GHD children undergoing primed or unprimed GHST and to evaluate LDSS treatment in CDGP.

Design

Retrospective study among three paediatric University Hospitals in Italy and UK.

Methods

184 children (72 females) aged 12.4 ± 2.08 years underwent primed (/P+) or unprimed (/P−) GHST and were followed up until final height (FH). CDGP patients were untreated (CDG P−) or received LDSS (CDGP+). The cohort included 34 CDG P−/P+, 12 CDGP+/P+, 51 GHD/P+, 29 CDG P−/P−, 2 CDGP+/P− and 56 GHD/P−. FH standard deviation score (SDS), Δ SDS FH‐target height (TH) and degree of success (−1 ≤ Δ SDS FH‐SDS TH ≤ +1) were outcomes of interest.

Results

GHD/P+ had better FH‐SDS (−0.87 vs −1.49; P = .023) and ΔSDS FH‐TH (−0.35 vs −0.77; P = .002) than CDGP−/P+. Overall, GHD/P+ showed the highest degree of success (90%, P = .006). Regardless of priming, both rhGH and LDSS improved degree of success compared to no treatment (89% and 86% vs 63%, P = .0009). GHD/P+ showed a trend towards a higher proportion of permanent GHD compared to GHD/P‐ (30.43% vs 15.09%; P = .067).

Conclusion

In peripubertal children, priming before GHST improves diagnostic accuracy of GHST for idiopathic GHD. LDSS treatment improves auxological outcomes in CDGP.
Incidence, severity and tolerability of pneumothorax following low‐dose CT‐guided lung biopsy in different severities of COPD
Authors: Zhou Mi , Wang Ting , Wei Dongshan , Zhu Yong , Jiang Yudan , Zuo Cui , Jiang Li , Chen Hong , Guo Shuliang , Yang Li
Published: September 2020

Background

The feasibility of pneumothorax following low‐dose CT‐guided puncture lung biopsy in different severities of COPD has not been reported.

Methods

The data of the patients with pulmonary lesion who underwent low‐dose CT‐guided lung biopsy by one experienced operator in our hospital from January 1st to September 30th in 2019 were retrospectively collected. They were divided into COPD group and non‐COPD group. The risk factors, incidence and severity of pneumothorax with the severity of COPD and changes in MMRC score, treatment way and discharge time after pneumothorax were assessed.

Results

Two hundred and nineteen patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study with 64 in the COPD group and 155 in the non‐COPD group. The average age, MMRC score and the incidence of pneumothorax after biopsy were significantly higher in the COPD group (64.7 ± 1.27 years, 1.02 ± 0.13, 31.3%) than in the non‐COPD group (58.8 ± 1.16 years, 0.35 ± 0.06, 17.4%, P < 0.05). The incidence of pneumothorax between I‐II and III‐IV in COPD did not reach the significant difference (P = 0.863). COPD was the only independent risk factor for pneumothorax after biopsy in a multivariable regression (P < 0.05). MMRC score was significantly increased at post‐pneumothorax in the two groups (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in diagnostic rate, severity of pneumothorax, the proportion of delayed pneumothorax, the changes in treatment way and discharge time between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Although the incidence of pneumothorax after low dose CT‐guided lung biopsy is increased in COPD, there was no difference in the severity of pneumothorax amongst the different severities of COPD and it is well‐tolerated without increasing medical burden.
Climate change exposure and vulnerability of the global protected area estate from an international perspective
Authors: Hoffmann Samuel , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: September 2020

Aim

Protected areas are essential to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem benefits to society under increasing human pressures of the Anthropocene. Anthropogenic climate change, however, threatens the enduring effectiveness of protected areas in conserving biodiversity and providing ecosystem services, because it modifies and redistributes biodiversity with unknown consequences for ecosystem functioning within protected areas. Here, we assess (a) the climate change exposure of the global terrestrial protected area estate and (b) the climate change vulnerability of national protected area estates.

Location

Terrestrial protected areas worldwide.

Methods

We calculated local climate change exposure as predicted climate anomalies between the present and 2070 using ten global climate models, two emission scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5) and the finest spatial resolution available for global climate projections (approx. 1 km). We estimated the climate change vulnerability of national protected area estates by analysing countrywide relationships between protected areas’ climate anomalies and other protected area characteristics, that is area, elevation, terrain ruggedness, human footprint and irreplaceability for globally threatened species.

Results

We found predicted climate anomalies highest in protected areas of (sub‐)tropical countries. The correlations between climate anomalies and protected area characteristics strongly differ between countries. Globally, protected areas showing large climate anomalies tend to be at high elevation and highly irreplaceable for threatened species, increasing climate change vulnerability. These protected areas are relatively large in area, of high topographic heterogeneity and less pressured by humans, decreasing climate change vulnerability.

Main conclusion

This study reveals potential hotspots of climate change impact inside the terrestrial protected area estate. It thus supports and guides climate‐smart conservation policy and management, particularly national to local authorities, to ensure the future effectiveness of protected areas in preserving biodiversity and ecosystem benefits under climate change.
Cumulative distribution functions: An alternative approach to examine the triggering of prepared motor actions in the StartReact effect
Authors: McInnes Aaron N. , Castellote Juan M. , Kofler Markus , Honeycutt Claire F. , Lipp Ottmar V. , Riek Stephan , Tresilian James R. , Marinovic Welber
Published: September 2020

There has been much debate concerning whether startling sensory stimuli can activate a fast‐neural pathway for movement triggering (StartReact) which is different from that of voluntary movements. Activity in sternocleidomastoid (SCM) electromyogram is suggested to indicate activation of this pathway. We evaluated whether SCM activity can accurately identify trials which may differ in their neurophysiological triggering and assessed the use of cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) of reaction time (RT) data to identify trials with the shortest RTs for analysis. Using recent data sets from the StartReact literature, we examined the relationship between RT and SCM activity. We categorised data into short/longer RT bins using CDFs and used linear mixed‐effects models to compare potential conclusions that can be drawn when categorising data on the basis of RT versus on the basis of SCM activity. The capacity of SCM to predict RT is task‐specific, making it an unreliable indicator of distinct neurophysiological mechanisms. Classification of trials using CDFs is capable of capturing potential task‐ or muscle‐related differences in triggering whilst avoiding the pitfalls of the traditional SCM activity‐based classification method. We conclude that SCM activity is not always evident on trials that show the early triggering of movements seen in the StartReact phenomenon. We further propose that a more comprehensive analysis of data may be achieved through the inclusion of CDF analyses. These findings have implications for future research investigating movement triggering as well as for potential therapeutic applications of StartReact.
Comparison of anadromous and landlocked Atlantic salmon genomes reveals signatures of parallel and relaxed selection across the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Kjærner‐Semb Erik , Edvardsen Rolf B. , Ayllon Fernando , Vogelsang Petra , Furmanek Tomasz , Rubin Carl Johan , Veselov Alexey E. , Nilsen Tom Ole , McCormick Stephen D. , Primmer Craig R. , Wargelius Anna
Published: September 2020

Most Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) populations follow an anadromous life cycle, spending early life in freshwater, migrating to the sea for feeding, and returning to rivers to spawn. At the end of the last ice age ~10,000 years ago, several populations of Atlantic salmon became landlocked. Comparing their genomes to their anadromous counterparts can help identify genetic variation related to either freshwater residency or anadromy. The objective of this study was to identify consistently divergent loci between anadromous and landlocked Atlantic salmon strains throughout their geographical distribution, with the long‐term aim of identifying traits relevant for salmon aquaculture, including fresh and seawater growth, omega‐3 metabolism, smoltification, and disease resistance. We used a Pool‐seq approach (n = 10–40 individuals per population) to sequence the genomes of twelve anadromous and six landlocked Atlantic salmon populations covering a large part of the Northern Hemisphere and conducted a genomewide association study to identify genomic regions having been under different selection pressure in landlocked and anadromous strains. A total of 28 genomic regions were identified and included cadm1 on Chr 13 and ppargc1a on Chr 18. Seven of the regions additionally displayed consistently reduced heterozygosity in fish obtained from landlocked populations, including the genes gpr132, cdca4, and sertad2 on Chr 15. We also found 16 regions, including igf1 on Chr 17, which consistently display reduced heterozygosity in the anadromous populations compared to the freshwater populations, indicating relaxed selection on traits associated with anadromy in landlocked salmon. In conclusion, we have identified 37 regions which may harbor genetic variation relevant for improving fish welfare and quality in the salmon farming industry and for understanding life‐history traits in fish.
Type XVII collagen interacts with the aPKC‐PAR complex and maintains epidermal cell polarity
Authors: Watanabe Mika , Kosumi Hideyuki , Osada Shin‐Ichi , Takashima Shota , Wang Yunan , Nishie Wataru , Oikawa Tsukasa , Hirose Tomonori , Shimizu Hiroshi , Natsuga Ken
Published: September 2020

Type XVII collagen (COL17) is a transmembrane protein expressed in the basal epidermis. COL17 serves as a niche for epidermal stem cells, and although its reduction has been implicated in altering cell polarity and ageing of the epidermis, it is unknown how COL17 affects epidermal cell polarity. Here, we uncovered COL17 as a binding partner of the aPKC‐PAR complex, which is a key regulating factor of cell polarity. Immunoprecipitation‐immunoblot assay and protein‐protein binding assay revealed that COL17 interacts with aPKC and PAR3. COL17 deficiency or epidermis‐specific aPKCλ deletion destabilized PAR3 distribution in the epidermis, while aPKCζ knockout did not. Asymmetrical cell division was pronounced in COL17‐null neonatal paw epidermis. These results show that COL17 is pivotal for maintaining epidermal cell polarity. Our study highlights the previously unrecognized role of COL17 in the basal keratinocytes.
Numerical evaluation of temperature fields and residual stresses in butt weld joints and comparison with experimental measurements
Authors: Sepe Raffaele , De Luca Alessandro , Greco Alessandro , Armentani Enrico
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a novel numerical model, based on the finite element (FE) method, for the simulation of a welding process aimed to make a two‐pass V‐groove butt joint, paying attention on the prediction of residual stresses and distortions. The ‘element birth and death’ technique for the simulation of the weld filler supply has been considered within this paper. The main advancements with respect to the state of the art herein proposed concern: (i) the development of a modelling technique able to simulate the plates interaction during the welding operation when an only plate is modelled. This phenomenon is usually neglected in literature; (ii) the heat amount is supplied to the FEs as volumetric generation of the internal energy, allowing overcoming the time‐consuming calibration phase needed to use the Goldak's model, commonly adopted in literature. Predicted results showed a good agreement with experimental ones.
Global analysis of fish growth rates shows weaker responses to temperature than metabolic predictions
Authors: van Denderen Daniël , Gislason Henrik , van den Heuvel Joost , Andersen Ken H.
Published: September 2020

Aim

Higher temperatures increase the metabolic rate of ectothermic organisms up to a certain level and make them grow faster. This temperature‐sensitivity of growth is frequently used to predict the long‐term effects of climate warming on ectotherms. Yet, realized growth also depends on ecological factors and evolutionary adaptation. Here we study whether faster growth is observed along temperature clines within and between marine fish species from polar to tropical regions.

Location

Global.

Time period

The sampling or publication year is for 718 observations before 1980, 1,073 observations between 1980 and 2000, and 390 observations after 2000 (for 336 observations no year was recorded).

Major taxa studied

Marine teleost fish and elasmobranchs.

Methods

The effects of temperature on fish growth are studied using 2,517 growth observations, representing 771 species in 165 marine ecoregions. The effects of temperature are presented with a Q10, describing relative increase in the rate of growth for each 10 °C increase.

Results

We find weak within‐ and between‐species effects of temperature on growth. The typical within‐species effect of temperature has a Q10 of 1.1. The between‐species effect is a little higher (Q10 = 1.4, or Q10 = 1.2 when corrected for phylogenetic relationships). When analysed per fish guild, growth responses vary from nearly independent of temperature in large demersals (Q10 = 1.1) to positive in small pelagics (Q10 = 1.6) and elasmobranchs (Q10 = 2.3). Average growth is higher in ecoregions with high primary production.

Main conclusion

The change in average growth along temperature clines is weaker than predicted by metabolic theory, suggesting that the metabolic predictions are not sustainable in an ecosystem context. The long‐term response of fish to the increase in temperature associated with climate change may hence be shaped more by local environmental and ecological dynamics than by the physiological temperature response of the species currently present.
A laboratory study of root canal and isthmus disinfection in extracted teeth using various activation methods with a mixture of sodium hypochlorite and etidronic acid
Authors: Villalta‐Briones N. , Baca P. , Bravo M. , Solana C. , Aguado‐Pérez B. , Ruiz‐Linares M. , Arias‐Moliz M. T.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To evaluate in a laboratory setting the antibiofilm activity of several irrigating protocols including conventional irrigation, ultrasonic activation and XP‐endo Finisher, with a mixture of sodium hypochlorite and etidronic acid in infected isthmuses and root canals of extracted human mandibular molar teeth.

Methodology

Fifty‐six mesial roots of mandibular molars, half of them with a continuous isthmus from the cervical to the apical third between the two root canals (type 1), and the other half with a continuous isthmus from the cervical to the middle third and one canal in the apical third (type 2), were included. The root canals were contaminated for 7 days with an Enterococcus faecalis suspension. There were three experimental groups plus a control group (n = 7 per type of root canal anatomy). All the root canals, except for the control group that was not treated, were chemomechanically prepared and then assigned to one of the experimental groups according to the final adjunctive procedure: conventional irrigation, ultrasonic activation or XP‐endo Finisher activation. The irrigating solution used was a combination of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 9% etidronic acid, and the final protocols were applied for three cycles of 30 s with a 3 mL volume. The antibiofilm activity was evaluated at each location (root canal and isthmus) and third (cervical, middle and apical) using confocal laser scanning microscopy and the live/dead technique. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (descriptive statistics) and SUDAAN (P‐value calculations).

Results

Root canals had significantly lower biovolume values than the isthmuses (P < 0.05). The biovolume in the root canals was significantly reduced in all the experimental groups in all the thirds except for conventional irrigation in the apical third (P > 0.05). In the cervical and middle thirds, ultrasonic activation was associated with the lowest biovolumes (P < 0.05), followed by XP‐endo Finisher. In the isthmus, disinfection was similar in all the thirds for all the protocols. Conventional irrigation was associated with intermediate values with no significant differences from the control group or from the activated protocols (P > 0.05), although the latter were significantly different from the control group (P < 0.05). No differences were found between ultrasonic activation and XP‐endo Finisher in the middle and apical thirds (P > 0.05) in the isthmuses.

Conclusions

In this laboratory study on extracted teeth, the isthmus was more difficult to disinfect than root canals. In the root canals, ultrasonic activation and XP‐endo Finisher had a greater effectiveness than conventional irrigation. In the isthmuses, no differences were observed between the two activation techniques and conventional irrigation.
The management of deep carious lesions and the exposed pulp amongst members of two European endodontic societies: a questionnaire‐based study
Authors: Careddu R. , Plotino G. , Cotti E. , Duncan H. F.
Published: September 2020

Aims

To investigate and compare views on management of deep caries and the exposed pulp by Endodontic Society members in Ireland (Irish Endodontic Society [IES]) and Italy (Accademia Italiana di Endodonzia [AIE]). Further aims were to investigate the influence of patient‐related factors (age, symptoms) and operator‐related factors (material choice, antibiotics) on management.

Methodology

A structured online questionnaire containing two cases (an 18‐ and 45‐year‐old) and two scenarios (± mild symptoms), including history and radiograph, was sent to IES and AIE members. The answers were analysed using chi‐square and Fisher's exact test (P < 0.05).

Results

In total, 120 dentists participated, representing 49% of the AIE and 48% of the IES membership. Age distribution was similar between the societies; however, most AIE members had no further qualifications (63%), while IES respondents generally had a postgraduate endodontic qualification (71%). AIE respondents carried out a larger volume of vital pulp treatment (VPT) per month, with 69% carrying out over five cases, compared with 22% of IES respondents. The presence of patient symptoms significantly altered treatment planning decisions (P < 0.001) with root canal treatment (RCT) more frequently selected in both societies. Patient age significantly influenced treatment choice in the absence (P = 0.043) or presence (P = 0.012) of symptoms with less VPT advocated in older patients. There were no significant differences in the treatment of a young patient in the presence (P = 0.302) or absence of symptoms (P = 0.297); however, older patient management differed between the societies for symptomatic (P = 0.041) and asymptomatic scenarios (P = 0.044) with significantly more RCTs carried out in the AIE than the IES. Hydraulic calcium silicate materials were commonly selected, accounting for 81% of IES and 69% of AIE VPT materials, although younger members of the AIE preferred calcium hydroxide materials. Younger dentists in both societies prescribed less RCT than older age groups.

Conclusions

Although VPT is carried out by members of both societies there was no consistency regarding the most appropriate management for the exposed pulp or the VPT material of choice. Patient symptoms and age significantly influence the decision‐making process and invasiveness of treatment. Hydraulic calcium silicate materials were the most commonly advocated material in all groups except young AIE members who preferred calcium hydroxide.