bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced synaptic vesicle protein 2A binding in temporal lobe epilepsy: A [11C]UCB‐J positron emission tomography study
Authors: Finnema Sjoerd J. , Toyonaga Takuya , Detyniecki Kamil , Chen Ming‐Kai , Dias Mark , Wang Qianyu , Lin Shu‐Fei , Naganawa Mika , Gallezot Jean‐Dominique , Lu Yihuan , Nabulsi Nabeel B. , Huang Yiyun , Spencer Dennis D. , Carson Richard E.
Published: September 2020

Objective

In this positron emission tomography (PET) study with [11C]UCB‐J, we evaluated synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) binding, which is decreased in resected brain tissues from epilepsy patients, in subjects with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and compared the regional binding pattern to [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake.

Methods

Twelve TLE subjects and 12 control subjects were examined. Regional [11C]UCB‐J binding potential (BPND) values were estimated using the centrum semiovale as a reference region. [18F]FDG uptake in TLE subjects was quantified using mean radioactivity values. Asymmetry in outcome measures was assessed by comparison of ipsilateral and contralateral regions. Partial volume correction (PVC) with the iterative Yang algorithm was applied based on the FreeSurfer segmentation.

Results

In 11 TLE subjects with medial temporal lobe sclerosis (MTS), the hippocampal volumetric asymmetry was 25 ± 11%. After PVC, [11C]UCB‐J BPND asymmetry indices were 37 ± 19% in the hippocampus, with very limited asymmetry in other brain regions. Reductions in [11C]UCB‐J BPND values were restricted to the sclerotic hippocampus when compared to control subjects. The corresponding asymmetry in hippocampal [18F]FDG uptake was 22 ± 7% and correlated with that of [11C]UCB‐J BPND across subjects (R2 = .38). Hippocampal asymmetries in [11C]UCB‐J binding were 1.7‐fold larger than those of [18F]FDG uptake.

Significance

[11C]UCB‐J binding is reduced in the seizure onset zone of TLE subjects with MTS. PET imaging of SV2A may be a promising biomarker approach in the presurgical selection and evaluation of TLE patients and may improve the sensitivity of molecular imaging for seizure focus detection.
COVID‐19 and seizures: Is there a link?
Authors: Vohora Divya , Jain Shreshta , Tripathi Manjari , Potschka Heidrun
Published: September 2020

The rapid spread of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic poses particular challenges to the management of persons with chronic disease. Reports of a possible neuroinvasiveness of SARS‐CoV‐2 as well as pathophysiological mechanisms and indirect consequences in severe COVID‐19 cases raise the question of whether the infection can be associated with an increased risk of seizure recurrence or the development of new onset and acute symptomatic seizures. Although the literature does not provide relevant evidence for seizure worsening in persons with epilepsy during the course of a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, there are theoretical risks, for example, seizures triggered by fever. Moreover, a severe disease course and advanced disease stages can, for instance, result in hypoxic encephalopathy, cerebrovascular events, and cytokine storm, which may trigger the development of acute seizures. This is further confirmed by reports of occasional seizures in COVID‐19 patients. Although the low number of reports so far suggests that the risk may be relatively low, the reports indicate that an early neurological manifestation with seizures should not be ruled out. In the context of these cases, we discuss possible pathophysiological mechanisms that may trigger ictogenesis in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Cortex leads the thalamic centromedian nucleus in generalized epileptic discharges in Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome
Authors: Dalic Linda J. , Warren Aaron E. L. , Young James C. , Thevathasan Wesley , Roten Annie , Bulluss Kristian J. , Archer John S.
Published: September 2020

Objective

We aimed to assess the roles of the cortex and thalamus (centromedian nucleus [CM]) during epileptic activity in Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome (LGS) patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery as part of the ESTEL (Electrical Stimulation of the Thalamus for Epilepsy of Lennox‐Gastaut Phenotype) trial.

Methods

Twelve LGS patients (mean age = 26.8 years) underwent bilateral CM‐DBS implantation. Intraoperatively, simultaneous electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded (range = 10‐34 minutes) from scalp electrodes and bilateral thalamic DBS electrodes. Temporal onsets of epileptic discharges (generalized paroxysmal fast activity [GPFA] and slow spike‐and‐wave [SSW]) were manually marked on recordings from scalp (ie, "cortex") and thalamus (ie, CM‐DBS electrodes). Phase transfer entropy (PTE) analysis quantified the degree of information transfer from cortex to thalamus within different frequency bands around GPFA events.

Results

GPFA was captured in eight of 12 patients (total event number across patients = 168, cumulative duration = 358 seconds). Eighty‐six percent of GPFA events were seen in both scalp and thalamic recordings. In most events (83%), onset occurred first at scalp, with thalamic onset lagging by a median of 98 milliseconds (interquartile range = 78.5 milliseconds). Results for SSW were more variable and seen in 11 of 12 patients; 25.4% of discharges were noted in both scalp and thalamus. Of these, 74.5% occurred first at scalp, with a median lag of 75 milliseconds (interquartile range = 228 milliseconds). One to 0.5 seconds and 0.5‐0 seconds before GPFA onset, PTE analysis showed significant energy transfer from scalp to thalamus in the delta (1‐3 Hz) frequency band. For alpha (8‐12 Hz) and beta (13‐30 Hz) frequencies, PTE was greatest 1‐0.5 seconds before GPFA onset.

Significance

Epileptic activity is detectable in CM of thalamus, confirming that this nucleus participates in the epileptic network of LGS. Temporal onset of GPFA mostly occurs earlier at the scalp than in the thalamus. This supports our prior EEG–functional magnetic resonance imaging results and provides further evidence for a cortically driven process underlying GPFA in LGS.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress increases inflammatory cytokines in an epilepsy mouse model Gabrg2+/Q390X knockin: A link between genetic and acquired epilepsy?
Authors: Shen Wangzhen , Poliquin Sarah , Macdonald Robert L. , Dong Marco , Kang Jing‐Qiong
Published: September 2020

Objective

Neuroinflammation is a major theme in epilepsy, which has been characterized in acquired epilepsy but is poorly understood in genetic epilepsy. γ‐Aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit gene mutations are significant causes of epilepsy, and we have studied the pathophysiology directly resulting from defective receptor channels. Here, we determined the proinflammatory factors in a genetic mouse model, the Gabrg2+/Q390X knockin (KI). We have identified increased cytokines in multiple brain regions of the KI mouse throughout different developmental stages and propose that accumulation of the trafficking‐deficient mutant protein may increase neuroinflammation, which would be a novel mechanism for genetic epilepsy.

Methods

We used enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, immunoprecipitation, nuclei purification, immunoblot, immunohistochemistry, and confocal microscopy to characterize increased neuroinflammation and its potential causes in a Gabrg2+/Q390X KI mouse and a Gabrg2+/‐ knockout (KO) mouse, each associated with a different epilepsy syndrome with different severities.

Results

We found that proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1‐beta (IL‐1β), and IL‐6 were increased in the KI mice but not in the KO mice. A major underlying basis for the discrepancy in cytokine expression between the two mouse models is likely chronic mutant protein accumulation and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. The presence of mutant protein dampened cytokine induction upon further cellular stimulation or external stress such as elevated temperature. Pharmacological induction of ER stress upregulated cytokine expression in the wild‐type and KO but not in the KI mice. The increased cytokine expression was independent of seizure occurrence, because it was upregulated in both mice and cultured neurons.

Significance

Together, these data demonstrate a novel pathophysiology for genetic epilepsy, increased neuroinflammation, which is a common mechanism for acquired epilepsy. The findings thus provide the first link of neuroinflammation between genetic epilepsy associated with an ion channel gene mutation and acquired epilepsy.
Verbal memory dysfunction is associated with alterations in brain transcriptome in dominant temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Busch Robyn M. , Yehia Lamis , Bazeley Peter , Seyfi Marilyn , Blümcke Ingmar , Hermann Bruce P. , Najm Imad M. , Eng Charis
Published: September 2020

Objective

Memory dysfunction is prevalent in many neurological disorders and can have a significant negative impact on quality of life. The genetic contributions to memory impairment in epilepsy, particularly temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), remain poorly understood. Here, we compare the brain transcriptome between TLE patients with and without verbal memory impairments to identify genes and signaling networks important for episodic memory.

Methods

Brain tissues were resected from 23 adults who underwent dominant temporal lobectomy for treatment of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. To control for potential effects of APOE on memory, only those homozygous for the APOE ε3 allele were included. A battery of memory tests was performed, and patients were stratified into two groups based on preoperative memory performance. The groups were well matched on demographic and disease‐related variables. Total RNA‐Seq and small RNA‐Seq were performed on RNA extracted from the brain tissues. Pathway and integrative analyses were subsequently performed.

Results

We identified 1092 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs), with the majority (71%) being underexpressed in brain tissues from patients with impaired memory compared to those from patients with intact memory. Enrichment analysis revealed overrepresentation of genes in pathways pertaining to brain‐related neurological dysfunction, including a subset associated with neurodegenerative diseases, memory, and cognition (APP, MAPT, PINK1). Despite including patients with identical APOE genotypes, we identify APOE as a differentially expressed gene associated with memory status. Small RNA‐Seq identified four differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) that were predicted to target a subset (22%) of all DETs. Integrative analysis showed that these miRNA‐predicted DET targets impact brain‐related pathways and biological processes also pertinent to memory and cognition.

Significance

TLE‐associated memory status may be influenced by differences in gene expression profiles within the temporal lobe. Upstream processes influencing differential expression signatures, such as miRNAs, could serve as biomarkers and potential treatment targets for memory impairment in TLE.
Post–COVID‐19 inflammatory syndrome manifesting as refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Carroll Elizabeth , Neumann Henry , Aguero‐Rosenfeld Maria E. , Lighter Jennifer , Czeisler Barry M. , Melmed Kara , Lewis Ariane
Published: September 2020

There have been multiple descriptions of seizures during the acute infectious period in patients with COVID‐19. However, there have been no reports of status epilepticus after recovery from COVID‐19 infection. Herein, we discuss a patient with refractory status epilepticus 6 weeks after initial infection with COVID‐19. Extensive workup demonstrated elevated inflammatory markers, recurrence of a positive nasopharyngeal SARS‐CoV‐2 polymerase chain reaction, and hippocampal atrophy. Postinfectious inflammation may have triggered refractory status epilepticus in a manner similar to the multisystemic inflammatory syndrome observed in children after COVID‐19.
Safety and tolerability associated with chronic intermittent use of diazepam buccal film in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients with epilepsy
Authors: Seinfeld Syndi , Gelfand Michael A. , Heller Allen H. , Buan Carla , Slatko Gary
Published: September 2020

Objective

Diazepam buccal film (DBF) is in development for treatment of patients experiencing bouts of increased seizure activity. We assessed safety, tolerability, and usability of self‐ or caregiver‐administered DBF in the outpatient setting.

Methods

Patients aged 2‐65 years needing treatment with a rescue benzodiazepine at least once monthly were eligible for the study. DBF (5‐17.5 mg) was dispensed based on age and body weight. Patients/caregivers administered DBF for up to five seizure episodes per month. Adverse events (AEs) and usability assessments were recorded after the first dose, then every 3 months.

Results

Onehundred eighteen patients who used ≥1 DBF dose (adults, n = 82; adolescents, n = 19; children, n = 17) were enrolled. Eleven treatment‐related AEs (10 being mild or moderate in severity) occurred in nine (7.6%) patients over a mean of 243 days of follow‐up. No patient discontinued participation because of AEs. Mild local buccal discomfort, buccal swelling, and cheek skin sensitivity were reported by one patient each. Twenty‐two serious AEs were reported; one was treatment‐related. The three deaths reported, all unrelated to DBF, resulted from seizures or seizure with brain malignancy. Self‐administration by adults was attempted on 23.6% (188/795) of use occasions. Administration of DBF occurred under ictal or peri‐ictal conditions on 49.5% (538/1087) of use occasions, and DBF was successfully administered on a first or second attempt on 96.6% (1050/1087) of use occasions. Overall, patients received their dose of DBF on 99.2% (1078/1087) of use occasions. A second DBF dose was required within 24 hours after the first dose on 8.5% (92/1087) of use occasions.

Significance

In this observational study of chronic intermittent use, DBF was easy to administer, safe, and well tolerated in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients with epilepsy experiencing seizure emergencies. DBF can be readily self‐administered by adults with epilepsy, as well as successfully administered by a caregiver in seizure emergencies.
Are domesticated freshwater fish an underappreciated culprit of ecosystem change?
Authors: Cucherousset Julien , Olden Julian D.
Published: September 2020

In addition to accidental aquaculture escapees, an increasing number of freshwater fish expressing different domestication levels are voluntarily released into the wild primarily as stocking supplement for fisheries and for conservation programmes. Because domestication modifies individual traits and because subtle changes in intraspecific variability can impact ecological dynamics, we argue that these purposeful introductions of domesticated fish may impact the functioning of recipient ecosystems. We posit that purposely introduced domesticated fish could be considered as native invaders and be investigated and managed using frameworks developed for biological invasions. Studies identifying the relative importance of the different ecological mechanisms leading to these ecosystems impacts and quantifying how the intensity of introduction and the level of domestication modulate their ecosystem impacts are needed. This will lead to a better appreciation of how the benefits from releasing domesticated fish are offset by the ecological costs on freshwater ecosystem functioning caused by human‐induced local modification of intraspecific diversity patterns.
Historical anecdotes of fishing pressure: Misconstrued “sea serpent” sightings provide evidence for antecedent entanglement of marine biota in the British Isles
Authors: France Robert L.
Published: September 2020

Marine scholars have come to realize the importance of including historical perspectives as part of comprehensive assessments made of the social–ecological systems involved in sustainable fisheries management. In particular, there is increasing recognition of the value in examining information contained within historical anecdotes as a prelude to implementing current conservation actions as well as setting future restoration objectives. The present study demonstrates that careful parsing of eyewitness accounts of unidentified marine objects which at the time were purported to be sea serpents—of the “many‐humped” or “string‐of‐buoys” typology—actually reveals that marine fauna in the British Isles have been victims of entanglement in fishing gear for a much longer period than is customarily assumed. The temporal baseline for the onset of entanglement in this region certainly predates, by more than a century, the advent and widespread use of plastic in fisheries and other maritime operations.
The pseudoGTPase group of pseudoenzymes
Authors: Stiegler Amy L. , Boggon Titus J.
Published: September 2020

Pseudoenzymes are emerging as significant mediators and regulators of signal transduction. These proteins maintain enzyme folds and topologies, but are disrupted in the conserved motifs required for enzymatic activity. Among the pseudoenzymes, the pseudoGTPase group of atypical GTPases has recently expanded and includes the Rnd and RGK groups, RhoH and the RhoBTB proteins, mitochondrial RhoGTPase and centaurin‐γ groups, CENP‐M, dynein LIC, Entamoeba histolytica RabX3, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2, and the p190RhoGAP proteins. The wide range of cellular functions associated with pseudoGTPases includes cell migration and adhesion, membrane trafficking and cargo transport, mitosis, mitochondrial activity, transcriptional control, and autophagy, placing the group in an expanding portfolio of signaling pathways. In this review, we examine how the pseudoGTPases differ from canonical GTPases and consider their mechanistic and functional roles in signal transduction. We review the amino acid differences between the pseudoGTPases and discuss how these proteins can be classified based on their ability to bind nucleotide and their enzymatic activity. We discuss the molecular and structural consequences of amino acid divergence from canonical GTPases and use comparison with the well‐studied pseudokinases to illustrate the classifications. PseudoGTPases are fast becoming recognized as important mechanistic components in a range of cellular roles, and we provide a concise discussion of the currently identified members of this group.

Enzymes

small GTPases; EC number: EC 3.6.5.2
Architecture of the multi‐functional SAGA complex and the molecular mechanism of holding TBP
Authors: Ben‐Shem Adam , Papai Gabor , Schultz Patrick
Published: September 2020

In eukaryotes, transcription of protein encoding genes is initiated by the controlled deposition of the TATA‐box binding protein TBP onto gene promoters, followed by the ordered assembly of a pre‐initiation complex. The SAGA co‐activator is a 19‐subunit complex that stimulates transcription by the action of two chromatin‐modifying enzymatic modules, a transcription activator binding module, and by delivering TBP. Recent cryo electron microscopy structures of yeast SAGA with bound nucleosome or TBP reveal the architecture of the different functional domains of the co‐activator. An octamer of histone fold domains is found at the core of SAGA. This octamer, which deviates considerably from the symmetrical analogue forming the nucleosome, establishes a peripheral site for TBP binding where steric hindrance represses interaction with spurious DNA. The structures point to a mechanism for TBP delivery and release from SAGA that requires TFIIA and whose efficiency correlates with the affinity of DNA to TBP. These results provide a structural basis for understanding specific TBP delivery onto gene promoters and the role played by SAGA in regulating gene expression. The properties of the TBP delivery machine harboured by SAGA are compared with the TBP loading device present in the TFIID complex and show multiple similitudes.
Metastasis to the thyroid gland: a single‐institution 16‐year experience
Authors: Ghossein Charles A , Khimraj Anjanie , Dogan Snjezana , Xu Bin
Published: September 2020

Aims

Metastasis to the thyroid gland is a rare occurrence that may pose a diagnostic challenge. In this study, we aimed to report the clinicopathological features, immunoprofile, molecular alterations and outcome of 30 patients treated at our centre from 2003 to 2019.

Methods and results

The most common site of the primary tumour was the kidney, followed by the lung, lower gastrointestinal tract and breast. In seven (23%) patients, the thyroid metastases were resected prior to the diagnosis of the primary tumours. Six patients (20%) had thyroid as the sole metastatic site. Three (10%) patients harboured tumour‐to‐tumour metastasis; 71% had a unilateral unifocal thyroid mass, which might be mistaken for a primary thyroid tumour. Among the 13 cases that were initially diagnosed at an outside hospital, four (31%) were misinterpreted as a thyroid primary. An immunohistochemical panel of thyroid follicular cell markers was most useful to differentiate primary thyroid tumours from metastasis. Molecularly, the metastasis showed alterations characteristic of the primary tumour, which may be helpful in establishing the diagnosis and primary site. Although the prognosis was poor, with a 5‐year disease specific survival of 58%, a long‐term cure was possible in cases with oligometastasis successfully treated with surgery.

Conclusions

Metastasis to the thyroid gland is an uncommon phenomenon, with an incidence of 0.36% in all thyroid malignancies. It may present as a solitary thyroid mass before the discovery of the primary tumour, posing a diagnostic challenge. Although the overall prognosis is poor, a subset of patients with oligometastasis can be managed surgically.
Penetration of different molecular weight hydrolysed keratins into hair fibres and their effects on the physical properties of textured hair
Authors: Malinauskyte E. , Shrestha R. , Cornwell P. A. , Gourion‐Arsiquaud S. , Hindley M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To investigate the effects of different molecular weight (MW), wool derived hydrolysed keratins (i.e. peptides) on the physical properties of relaxed textured hair.

Methods

Very curly hair of African origin was relaxed using sodium hydroxide‐based treatment. Relaxed hair was treated with different MW peptides derived from keratin protein and an amino acid, L‐Leucine. The low‐MW keratin peptides were 221 Da, the mid‐MW keratin peptides were approximately 2577 Da, and the high‐MW keratin peptides were approximately 75 440 Da. The penetration of these different peptides into relaxed hair was evaluated using a laser scanning micrometre and by fluorescence microscopy. The effect of these compounds on single‐fibre mechanical properties and thermal properties was evaluated using tensile and DSC testing, respectively.

Results

Low‐ and mid‐MW compounds were able to penetrate deep into the hair cortex. High‐MW peptide adsorbed onto the hair surface and possibly slightly penetrated into the outer layers of the fibre surface. Both mid‐ and high‐MW keratin peptides, increased Young’s modulus and reduced hair breakage at 20% and 80% relative humidity. With the exception of mid‐MW peptide, other peptides and amino acid were not able to modify thermal properties of relaxed textured hair.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that low‐MW compounds may increase hair volume, and high‐MW peptides may repair damage on freshly relaxed textured hair.
Clinical endodontic management during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a literature review and clinical recommendations
Authors: Azim A. A. , Shabbir J. , Khurshid Z. , Zafar M. S. , Ghabbani H. M. , Dummer P. M. H.
Published: September 2020

The spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has resulted in millions of confirmed cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths. Despite all efforts to contain the spread of the disease, the number of infections and deaths continue to rise, particularly in some regions. Given its presence in the salivary secretions of affected patients, and the presence of many reported asymptomatic cases that have tested positive for COVID‐19, dental professionals, including Endodontists, are at high risk of becoming infected if they do not take appropriate precautions. As of today, there are no predictable treatments or approved vaccines that can protect the public and healthcare professionals from the virus; however, there is speculation that a vaccine might be available sometime in 2021. Until then, general dentists and Endodontist will need to be able to treat emergency patients in order to relieve pressure on emergency clinics in hospitals or local community hubs. In addition, as the pandemic continues, strategies to manage patients will need to evolve from a palliative to a more permanent/definitive treatment approach. In this article, an update on the treatment considerations for dental care in general is provided, as well as a discussion on the available endodontic guidelines reported in the literature. Recommendations on clinical management of endodontic emergencies are proposed.
Impact of HLA compatibility in recipients of kidneys from expanded criteria donors: A Collaborative Transplant Study Report
Authors: Echterdiek Fabian , Latus Joerg , Döhler Bernd , Schwenger Vedat , Süsal Caner
Published: September 2020

Due to a widespread organ shortage, the use of expanded criteria donors (ECDs) in kidney transplantation has increased persistently, reaching approximately 40% in recent years. Whether human leucocyte antigen (HLA) matching between donor and recipient should be part of allocation algorithms in transplantation of ECD kidneys, and especially of ECD kidneys from ≥70‐year‐old donors, is still in question. To this end, 135,529 kidney transplantations performed between 2000 and 2017 and reported to the Collaborative Transplant Study were analysed and the impact of HLA‐A+B+DR mismatches on death‐censored graft and patient survival as well as on rejection episodes was investigated. Results were stratified according to donor status (standard criteria donor (SCD) versus ECD) and age of ECD. HLA incompatibility increased the five‐year death‐censored graft failure risk similarly strong in recipients of ECD and SCD transplants (hazard ratio (HR) per HLA mismatch 1.078 and 1.075, respectively; p < .001 for both). Its impact on rejection treatments during the first post‐transplant year was also significant but slightly weaker for recipients of ECD transplants (risk ratio (RR) per HLA mismatch 1.10 for ECD transplants and 1.13 for SCD transplants; p < .001 for both). Mortality increased gradually from zero to six HLA mismatches in recipients of SCD transplants, whereas for ECD transplants a significant increase was notable only from zero to more than zero mismatches. A significant but slightly less pronounced impact of HLA incompatibility on graft failure was observed in transplants from ≥70‐ compared with <70‐year‐old ECDs (HR per mismatch 1.047 and 1.093; p = .009 and < 0.001, respectively). The influence of HLA mismatches on rejection treatments was the same for both ECD age groups (RR = 1.10, p < .001 and p = .004, respectively). Our data indicate that HLA matching should be part of allocation algorithms not only in transplantation of kidneys from SCDs but also from ECDs.
The effect of extraction of lower primary canines on the morphology of dental arch: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Espinosa Daybelis González , Cruz Crislyne Mendes da Vera , Normando David
Published: September 2020

Background

The beneficial effect of the extraction of primary canines in the resolution of incisor irregularity and its side effects are controversial.

Aim

To systematically review the effects of the extraction of primary canines in incisor irregularity and dental arch morphology.

Design

Controlled non‐randomized (non‐RCT) and randomized clinical trials (RCT) evaluating children treated with extraction of primary canines compared with those without intervention.

Results

A total of 984 articles were found, of which two RCTs and one non‐RCT met the inclusion criteria. Both had a low RoB. A high level of evidence was observed through GRADE. A meta‐analysis showed the extraction of primary canines produced a significant decrease in incisor irregularity (95% CI: −3.56, −2.09 mm). This decrease, however, was associated with a reduction of arch length (95% CI: −1.58, −0.94 mm), intermolar width (95% CI: −0.61, −0.22 mm), and overjet (95% CI: −075, −018). A mild overbite increase was found (95% CI: 0.10, 0.76 mm).

Conclusion

A high level of evidence showed that the extraction of primary canines improved incisor irregularity in the mixed dentition. Side effects included reduced arch length and intermolar width. A slight reduction in overjet and a mild increase in overbite were also observed. When they are not part of the treatment goal, these occlusal changes can be prevented by installing a lingual arch.
Hydrothermal microwave‐assisted synthesis of LaFeO3 catalyst for N2O decomposition
Authors: Kostyukhin Egor M. , Kustov Alexander L. , Evdokimenko Nikolay V. , Bazlov Andrey I. , Kustov Leonid M.
Published: September 2020

Lanthanum orthoferrite powders were synthesized via one‐step hydrothermal reactions under mild conditions using microwave and conventional heating. The use of microwave irradiation during the synthesis allows one to obtain nanocrystalline LaFeO3 with a higher yield and reduced crystallite and particle size within a 16 times shorter duration (3 hours) at a lower temperature of 220°C as compared to the conventional heating. The catalytic decomposition of nitrous oxide was performed over both samples, it was shown that the sample obtained under microwave conditions demonstrates enhanced activity as a catalyst: N2O decomposes completely at 700°C over the catalyst formed at microwave conditions, while the comparative catalyst prepared by conventional heating reaches a lower conversion of only 60% at the same temperature and catalytic reaction conditions.
Missed nursing education: Findings from a qualitative study
Authors: Palese Alvisa , Cracina Arianna , Marini Eva , Caruzzo Davide , Fabris Stefano , Mansutti Irene , Mattiussi Elisa , Morandini Marzia , Moreale Renzo , Venturini Margherita , Achil Illarj , Danielis Matteo
Published: September 2020

Aim

To understand what nursing education activities are missed in the daily life of nursing programmes, by also identifying antecedents and consequences of missed educational activities.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study according to the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research guidelines.

Methods

A purposeful sample of 32 participants with different roles (nurse educators, clinical nurses, students, and administrative personnel) and working in different settings (university, administrative, healthcare service levels) were involved in three focus groups and nine face‐to‐face interviews from 2019–2020. Both focus groups and face‐to‐face interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data that emerged were thematically categorized by induction.

Findings

Missed Nursing Education reflects those educational activities needed in the process of nursing education that are missed or delayed. Direct educational activities missed include clinical rotations, classroom teaching and students’ overall learning experience. Indirect missed educational activities concern continuing professional development of nursing faculty members, nursing discipline development and the organizational processes of the nursing programme. As antecedents, missed nursing education is triggered by factors at the organizational, nursing faculty, and student levels. Consequences have been reported for students, nursing faculty, clinical nurses, and patients.

Conclusions

Missed Nursing Education can be considered a multifaceted, multicausal phenomenon, with multitargeted consequences.

Impact

To date, missed nursing care has only been investigated in clinical practice. However, care also permeates the relationship between nurse educators and students. Thus, at the point of ‘educational care’ delivery, aspects can also be omitted. Educational activities at risk of being missed or delayed affect the quality of nursing education and, in the short‐ and in the long‐ terms, also the quality of patient care. Some Missed Nursing Education antecedents can be modified by appropriate strategies that should be addressed by policy, health care and academic institutions.
Current concepts in the management of diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Ziegler Dan , Papanas Nikolaos , Schnell Oliver , Nguyen Bich Dao Thi , Nguyen Khue Thy , Kulkantrakorn Kongkiat , Deerochanawong Chaicharn
Published: September 2020

Diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) is encountered in approximately one‐third of people with diabetes. This, in turn, might markedly impoverish their quality of life, mainly owing to neuropathic pain and foot ulcerations. Painful DSPN might be as frequent as 25% in diabetes patients. Symptoms as a result of DSPN typically comprise pain, paresthesia and numbness in the distal lower limbs. Asymptomatic DSPN might reach 50% among patients with this condition. Unfortunately, DSPN is still not adequately diagnosed and treated. Its management has three priorities: (i) lifestyle improvement, near‐normoglycemia and multifactorial cardiovascular risk intervention; (ii) pathogenesis‐oriented pharmacotherapy; and (iii) symptomatic alleviation of pain. Intensive diabetes therapy showed evidence for favorable effects on the incidence and deterioration of DSPN in type 1 diabetes, but not type 2 diabetes. Among pathogenesis‐oriented treatments, α‐lipoic acid, actovegin, benfotiamine and epalrestat are currently authorized to treat DSPN in several countries. Symptomatic therapy uses analgesics, notably antidepressants, opioids and anticonvulsants, reducing pain by ≥50% in approximately 50% of individuals, but might be limited, particularly by central nervous system‐related adverse events. Local treatment with the capsaicin 8% patch might offer an alternative. In addition to pain relief, therapy should improve sleep, mobility and quality of life. In conclusion, multimodal treatment of DSPN should consider the individual risk profile, pathogenetic treatment and pain management using pharmacotherapy (combinations, if required), as well as non‐pharmacological options.
Managing restorative space, color matching, and tooth replacement with a novel implant through interdisciplinary treatment: A case report of partial anodontia and malformed teeth in the esthetic zone
Authors: Chu Stephen J. , Sarnachiaro Guido O. , Mieleszko Adam J. , Nicolay Olivier F.
Published: September 2020

A case report of tooth agenesis and excessive intraarch space due to tooth size discrepancies and malformed teeth is presented. Interdisciplinary treatment including orthodontics, implant surgery, prosthodontics, and laboratory fabrication with dissimilar restoration and material types was used to accomplish an esthetic and functional outcome. Proper diagnosis of individual tooth width and proportion were key elements in treatment.

Clinical Significance

Knowledge and understanding of the relationships of the mandibular to maxillary anterior teeth and shade management of dissimilar restoration types will allow the interdisciplinary team to achieve the desired esthetic restorative result.
Stable isotopes reveal contrasting trophic dynamics between host–parasite relationships: A case study of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and parasitic lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Argulus foliaceus)
Authors: Taccardi Emma Y. , Bricknell Ian R. , Byron Carrie J.
Published: September 2020

Across existing fish host–parasite literature, endoparasites were depleted in δ15N compared to their hosts, while ectoparasitic values demonstrated enrichment, depletion and equivalence relative to their hosts. δ13C enrichment varied extensively for both endo‐ and ectoparasites across taxa and host tissues. In our case study, sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) were enriched in δ15N relative to their farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) hosts, although the value contradicted the average that is currently assumed across the animal kingdom. Common fish lice (Argulus foliaceus) did not show a consistent trend in δ15N compared to their wild S. salar hosts. Both parasitic species had a range of δ13C enrichment patterns relative to their hosts. Farmed and wild S. salar had contrasting δ13C and δ15N, and signals varied across muscle, fin and skin within both groups. L. salmonis and A. foliaceus subsequently had unique δ13C and δ15N, and L. salmonis from opposite US coasts differed in δ15N. Given the range of enrichment patterns that were exhibited across the literature and in our study system, trophic dynamics from host to parasite do not conform to traditional prey to predator standards. Furthermore, there does not appear to be a universal enrichment pathway for δ13C nor δ15N in parasitic relationships, which emphasizes the need to investigate host–parasite linkages across species.
Molecular characterization of Malapterurus minjiriyaSagua, 1987 and phylogenetic relationships within the genus Malapterurus (Silurifomes, Malapteruridae) from Nigerian inland water bodies
Authors: Oladipo Segun O. , Nneji Lotanna M. , Anifowoshe Abass T. , Nneji Ifeanyi C.
Published: September 2020

Molecular (mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1– COI) analysis was performed to characterize the poorly known Malapterurus minjiriya from Nigerian inland water bodies. Integrative taxonomy, involving morphological and molecular data, confirms the identity of M. minjiriya. Matrilineal genealogy reveals a sister relationship of M. minjiriya with Malapterurus electricus and Malapterurus microstoma. The genetic analysis further shows evidence of population divergence within M. electricus and Malapterurus beninensis. The findings of the study highlight the importance of the integration of DNA barcoding in biodiversity documentation of freshwater fish species in Nigeria.
Exogenous nail and skin pigmentation associated with the artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)
Authors: Savaş Erdoğan Sevil , Cebeci Kahraman Filiz
Published: September 2020

Background

Nail dyschromia occurs for various reasons and presents with different clinical appearances. Exogenous causes, such as occupational agents, trauma, and infection can cause discoloration in the nail.

Aims

Reports of pigmentation on skin and nails caused by contact with plants are very rare. Here, we report the development of artichoke‐related brown discoloration in the nails and fingers of a patient seasonally employed in cleaning and peeling artichokes and briefly discuss its possible mechanism.

Patients

The clinical features and cause of brown pigmentation on the all nails in a man are presented.

Results

In our patient, seasonally recurrent brown nail and skin pigmentation occurred secondary to exogenous contact with the artichoke. We consider that when our patient cut or peeled the head and leaves of the artichoke, the pigments formed by the enzymatic browning mechanism caused discoloration in his skin and skin appendages upon contact.

Conclusions

With this paper, we have contributed a new cause of exogenous nail pigmentation to the literature.
How could we suspect life‐threatening perinatal group A streptococcal infection?
Authors: Arai Tomohiro , Takai Yasushi , Samejima Kouki , Matsunaga Shigetaka , Ono Yoshihisa , Seki Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

Aim

Perinatal group A streptococcal infection is a rare but life‐threatening condition. Few reports have focused on its clinical characteristics and how to prevent deterioration. We report our experience with two antenatal fatal cases and reviewed 96 cases in the literature to assess the clinical characteristics of group A streptococcal infection.

Methods

English‐language clinical reports of antenatal and postnatal group A streptococcal infection in 1974–2019 were retrieved and examined. Relationships between clinical characteristics and maternal outcomes were assessed.

Results

Univariate analysis revealed that antenatal group A streptococcal infection was significantly associated with an age of ≤19 or ≥ 35 years, cesarean section, sore throat as an initial symptom, positive throat culture, maternal death and fetal death. Multivariate analysis revealed that antenatal onset (odds ratio = 7.922, 95% confidence interval = 1.297–48.374; P = 0.025) and a quick sepsis‐related organ‐failure assessment score (qSOFA; low blood pressure, high respiratory rate or altered mental status) of ≥2 (odds ratio = 6.166, 95% confidence interval = 1.066–35.670; P = 0.042) were significantly related to maternal death.

Conclusion

Per our findings, antenatal group A streptococcal infection was significantly associated with maternal and fetal death. Further, the antenatal infection was revealed as a more critical risk factor. We suggest that the presence of any sign related to the qSOFA is a potential clue suspecting perinatal group A streptococcal infection in primary obstetric facilities.
Maternal homocysteine and folate levels and risk of recurrent spontaneous abortion: A meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Diao Jingyi , Luo Liu , Li Jinqi , Zhang Senmao , Li Yihuan , Qin Jiabi
Published: September 2020

Aim

The aim of the study was to review and summarize the epidemiologic evidence on the associations of homocysteine (HCY) and folate with the risk of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA).

Methods

This review was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Libraries and Chinese databases were searched through May 2019 to identify studies that met prestated inclusion criteria. Either a fixed‐ or a random‐effects model was used to calculate the combined standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Twenty‐three studies involving 2052 RSA cases and 1476 healthy controls were included. Overall, women with RSA compared with those without RSA were at a significantly higher level of HCY both in plasma (SMD = 1.34; 95% CI: 0.76–1.93) and in serum (SMD = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.02–1.91), but lower level of folate both in serum (SMD = −1.63; 95% CI: −2.51 to −0.75) and in red blood cells (SMD = −1.30; 95% CI: −1.76 to −0.85). However, a statistically significant association between plasma folate and risk of RSA was not been observed (SMD = −0.82; 95% CI: −1.73 to 0.09). These findings have to be viewed with caution for the significant heterogeneity (I2: from 88 to 98%).

Conclusion

High HCY levels in both plasma and serum as well as low folate levels in serum and red blood cells are significantly associated with risk of RSA, which indicates that measures to reduce HCY levels or folate supplementation may help to reduce the risk of RSA. However, prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Grandparents' Support to Young Families: Variations by Adult Children's Union Status†
Authors: Cooney Teresa M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

This study investigates whether grandparents' support to their children's families varies by the child's union status—single, cohabiting, or married.

Background

More young families today are headed by unmarried parents due to increases in nonmarital childbearing, cohabitation, and divorce, and these families have fewer resources than married‐couple families. Grandparents can provide an important safety net to families in need. Although grandparents today possess a greater capacity to assist their children's families due to increased longevity, good health and financial well‐being, little is known about whether their support varies based on their adult children's union status.

Method

Data are drawn from the 2015–2017 Add Health Parent Study (AHPS) (
https://www.cpc.unc.edu/projects/addhealth/design/parents‐phase‐2), a follow‐up study of 2013 parents who participated in the 1995 Add Health Study with their adolescents. Respondents' reports of instrumental and financial support to children, ages 18–40, and their children are analyzed. Mixed effects logistic regressions estimate the likelihood of support to 399 cohabiting, 518 single, and 1959 married children. Follow‐up regressions estimate amounts of support to those receiving any assistance.

Results

Grandparents are more likely to provide instrumental and financial assistance to cohabiting and single children than married children. Cohabiting females receive more hours of instrumental help from grandparents than married females. Single and cohabiting children receive higher levels of financial assistance than married children.

Conclusion

Grandparental support appears responsive to the needs of their adult children. Nontraditional families no longer receive less extended‐family support. Grandparents today appear to play an important support role for their children's families.
A Meta‐Analytic Integration of Acquisition Performance Prediction
Authors: King David R. , Wang Gang , Samimi Mehdi , Cortes Andres Felipe
Published: September 2020

Different areas of focus in merger and acquisition (M&A) research have led to research fragmentation in theories and variables used to predict different measures of acquisition performance. We address fragmentation through broad meta‐analyses to identify relevant theories and predictor variables. Specifically, we find 16 constructs (method of payment (cash); method of payment (stock); acquirer debt; acquisition premium; relatedness; acquisition experience; alliance experience; acquirer firm size; target firm size; acquirer prior performance; target prior performance; acquirer R&D; national cultural distance; geographic distance; relative size; integration depth) that are significant predictors of different measures of acquisition performance. Our results support signalling theory that identifies the importance of deal characteristics, as well as contingency theory and the importance of context. With the exception of method of payment (stock), the impact of a predictor variable often varies across different measures of acquisition performance driving the need to assess theoretical explanations for underlying relationships. Overall, our results show there is value in integrating different theories to inform our understanding of acquisition performance.
Acquirers’ Reception of Signals in M&A Markets: Effects of Acquirer Experiences on Target Selection
Authors: Wu Cheng‐Wei , Reuer Jeffrey J.
Published: September 2020

A key challenge facing acquirers is how to judge the technological and other resources of high‐tech ventures. While it is well known that acquirers can benefit from signals about targets to reduce acquirers’ uncertainty in the selection of acquisition targets, this leaves open the question of the degree to which certain acquirers would rely on a target’s signals. We argue that different levels and types of experience can shape an acquirer’s attention to high‐tech ventures’ signals. On the one hand, general acquisition experience can lead an acquirer to pay more attention to and act on signals. On the other hand, target‐specific experience developed from prior collaborations can reduce the value of signals by directly mitigating an acquirer’s risk of adverse selection. Based on a sample of over a thousand technology ventures in the US biotechnology industry, our empirical evidence demonstrates that the combination of acquirers’ experiences and targets’ signals explains who buys whom in a high‐tech industry.