bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay between C‐type lectin receptors and microRNAs in cellular homeostasis and immune response
Authors: Ganguly Kasturi , Kishore Uday , Madan Taruna
Published: October 2020

C‐type lectin receptors (CLRs) belong to the family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). They have a critical role to play in the regulation of a range of physiological functions including development, respiration, angiogenesis, inflammation, and immunity. CLRs can recognize distinct and conserved exogenous pathogen‐associated as well as endogenous damage‐associated molecular patterns. These interactions set off downstream signaling cascades, leading to the production of inflammatory mediators, activation of effector immune cells as well as regulation of the developmental and physiological homeostasis. CLR signaling must be tightly controlled to circumvent the excessive inflammatory burden and to maintain the cellular homeostasis. Recently, MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be important regulators of expression of CLRs and their downstream signaling. The delicate balance between miRNAs and CLRs seems crucial in almost all aspects of multicellular life. Any dysregulations in the miRNA‐CLR axes may lead to tumorigenesis or inflammatory diseases. Here, we present an overview of the current understanding of the central role of miRNAs in the regulation of CLR expression, profoundly impacting upon homeostasis and immunity, and thus, development of therapeutics against immune disorders.
Challenges and possible solutions for decoding extranasal olfactory receptors
Authors: Kalra Siddhant , Mittal Aayushi , Bajoria Manisha , Mishra Tripti , Maryam Sidrah , Sengupta Debarka , Ahuja Gaurav
Published: October 2020

Olfactory receptors are primarily known to be expressed in the olfactory epithelium of the nasal cavity and therefore assist in odor perception. With the advent of high‐throughput omics technologies such as tissue microarray or RNA sequencing, a large number of olfactory receptors have been reported to be expressed in the nonolfactory tissues. Although these technologies uncovered the expression of these olfactory receptors in the nonchemosensory tissues, unfortunately, they failed to reveal the information about their cell type of origin. Accurate characterization of the cell types should be the first step towards devising cell type‐specific assays for their functional evaluation. Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing technology resolved some of these apparent limitations and opened new means to interrogate the expression of these extranasal olfactory receptors at the single‐cell resolution. Moreover, the availability of large‐scale, multi‐organ/species single‐cell expression atlases offer ample resources for the systematic reannotation of these receptors in a cell type‐specific manner. In this Viewpoint article, we discuss some of the technical limitations that impede the in‐depth understanding of these extranasal olfactory receptors, with a special focus on odorant receptors. Moreover, we also propose a list of single cell‐based omics technologies that could further promulgate the opportunity to decipher the regulatory network that drives the odorant receptors expression at atypical locations.
Analysis on peculiar fatigue fracture behaviour of shot peened metal using new threshold stress intensity factor range equation
Authors: Ando Kotoji , Kim Min‐Heon , Nam Ki‐Woo
Published: October 2020

A shot‐peened specimen with a precrack exhibits the following peculiar fatigue fracture behaviour. (1) Precracks can be rendered harmless by peening, even though the precrack reduced the fatigue limit by approximately 20%–60% of the nonpeened specimen. (2) When shot‐peened specimens were fractured at a higher stress than the fatigue limit, most specimens were fractured from outside the precracked part. (3) In most run‐out specimens, stage II (tensile type) nonpropagating cracks were observed. Why were nonpropagating cracks initiated and arrested? To explain the above fatigue behaviours, a new threshold stress intensity factor range (
) equation is necessary. In this paper, a
equation as a function of crack size was proposed using a nonlinear zone size criterion. By using the equation, the above peculiar fatigue fracture behaviours (1) and (2) and the stage II nonpropagating crack arrest condition could be evaluated quantitatively. Stage II nonpropagating crack initiation could be explained by considering the microdistribution of residual stress due to peening.
Thermal mismatches in biological rates determine trophic control and biomass distribution under warming
Authors: Bideault Azenor , Galiana Núria , Zelnik Yuval R. , Gravel Dominique , Loreau Michel , Barbier Matthieu , Sentis Arnaud
Published: October 2020

Temperature has numerous effects on the structure and dynamics of ecological communities. Yet, there is no general trend or consensus on the magnitude and directions of these effects. To fill this gap, we propose a mechanistic framework based on key biological rates that predicts how temperature influences biomass distribution and trophic control in food webs. We show that these predictions arise from thermal mismatches between biological rates and across trophic levels. We couple our theory with experimental data for a wide range of species and find that warming should lead to top‐heavier terrestrial food chains and stronger top‐down control in aquatic environments. We then derive predictions for the effects of temperature on herbivory and validate them with data on stream grazers. Our study provides a mechanistic explanation of thermal effects on consumer–resource systems which is crucial to better understand the biogeography and the consequences of global warming on trophic dynamics.
Impact of sarcopenia on glycemic control and atherosclerosis in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: Cross‐sectional study using outpatient clinical data
Authors: Nakanishi Shuhei , Iwamoto Masahiro , Shinohara Hisanori , Iwamoto Hideyuki , Kaneto Hideaki
Published: October 2020

Aim

This study examined the association among sarcopenia and various surrogate markers of atherosclerosis in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Patients with T2D who visited the outpatient clinic comprised the study's participants. Handgrip strength (Grip), usual gait speed (GS) and skeletal muscle index, in addition to glycated hemoglobin, ankle–brachial index (ABI) and intima‐media thickening (IMT), were measured in 1030 patients for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. From these results were obtained three categorical data (without sarcopenia [NS], sarcopenia with two factors [Sw2], sarcopenia with three factors [Sw3]), and continuous data for atherosclerosis.

Results

Glycated hemoglobin was significantly high among patients in the Sw3 category, as well as among all patients with sarcopenia, compared with those in the NS group, after adjustment was made for age, gender, duration of diabetes, and medications for hypertension and dyslipidemia. ABI was significantly low among the Sw2 and Sw3 patients, as well as among all patients with sarcopenia, but mean and maximum IMT were not when compared with the NS category of patients after the adjustment described above. However, skeletal muscle index, Grip and GS were positively associated with ABI after the adjustment. Grip and GS were negatively associated with maximum IMT after the adjustment.

Conclusions

These results imply that measurements to diagnose sarcopenia could play an important role for early detection of preclinical atherosclerosis, specifically peripheral artery disease, among Japanese patients with T2D. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 1196–1201.
Preoperative serum biomarkers in the prediction of postoperative delirium following abdominal surgery
Authors: Ida Mitsuru , Takeshita Yuna , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: October 2020

Aim

Elderly patients undergoing abdominal surgery have a high risk of developing postoperative delirium. This study aimed to explore risk factors for postoperative delirium by focusing on preoperative hematologic markers, and to develop a model that would be useful in predicting the occurrence of postoperative delirium.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients aged ≥65 years who underwent elective abdominal surgery under general anesthesia from January 2017 to May 2019. Patients' demographics, hematologic data and intraoperative data were recorded. Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐white blood cell ratio and prognostic nutritional index were calculated. We evaluated risk factors of postoperative delirium assessed using a chart‐based method for identification of delirium and developed a predictive model using preoperative and intraoperative data.

Results

Of 931 eligible patients, 833 with a mean age of 73.9 years were included in the analysis. The rate of incidence of postoperative delirium was 7.3%. Age, duration of surgery and preoperative platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio or platelet‐to‐white blood cell ratio were statistically significant risk factors. The predictive model, which included age, duration of surgery and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, had the largest area under the curve of 0.77.

Conclusions

Age, duration of surgery and preoperative platelet‐to‐white blood cell ratio or platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio are associated with the development of postoperative delirium. A predictive model, which includes age, duration of surgery and preoperative platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, is useful in predicting the development of postoperative delirium after elective abdominal surgery. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 1208–1212.
Regional industrial restructuring: Asset modification and alignment for digitalization
Authors: Isaksen Arne , Langemyr Eriksen Emelie , Rypestøl Jan Ole
Published: October 2020

This paper provides a conceptual framework to understand the innovation‐based restructuring of industries in a regional context. The framework includes how firms create new assets, reuse existing assets, and overcome hampering barriers to support innovation processes. The framework also covers how such asset modifications take place at the innovation system level. A core argument is that innovation activity is strengthened and regional restructuring supported when firms’ internal assets are aligned with assets at the regional innovation system level. We illustrate the framework with empirical examples of how digitalization as an innovation process takes place in firms in traditional manufacturing industries and in local newspapers in the Agder region in southern Norway.
Searching for “home,” writing to find it: A reflective account on experiences of othering in life and academia in times of generalized crises
Authors: Mandalaki Emmanouela
Published: October 2020

Combining poetry with diary notes inspired by recent experiences of othering amid COVID‐19 travel restrictions, I create a nonlinear text, whereby my other voices intermingle with broader experiences of othering and vulnerability to raise issues of oppression and privilege in masculine social structures, including academia. I bring the collective force of different voices in this nonlinear account to propose the need to understand academic writing as an activist, embodied practice of reuniting which allows for the development of the necessary intersectional feminist curiosity for undoing systems of oppression and patriarchy that increasingly disqualify different bodies. I conclude that it is not only about what we write but also about how we write and thus how we learn to socialize ourselves through life and academia. Paying attention to these dynamics, I suggest, might make the return back “home” possible again with commitment and attachment towards one another to mobilize much needed social change, together, in solidarity.
Dyslipidaemia after switch to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)‐based cART regimens in a cohort of HIV‐positive patients: what clinical relevance?
Authors: Gazzola L , Tagliaferri G , De Bona A , Mondatore D , Borsino C , Bini T , Marchetti G , d’Arminio Monforte A
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Switching from tenofovir (TDF) to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) affects lipid profile. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether this results in an increased frequency of patients with low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) above their cardiovascular‐related target.

Methods

All HIV patients switching from TDF to TAF, with no changes of the anchor drug, and with plasma lipids available within 6 months before and after the switch, were included. Demographic, HIV‐related parameters, cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and lipid profile on both TDF and TAF were collected. The CV risk score and the relative target of LDL for each patient were calculated according to 2016 European Society of Cardiology/European Atherosclerosis Society (ESC/EAS) guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias. Modifications in lipid profiles and in the prevalence of patients with LDL above their CV‐related target were evaluated after switch to TAF.

Results

Overall, 221 HIV patients were included, according to CV risk: 55% at low risk, 34% at moderate risk, and 11% at high/very high risk. By analysing lipid profiles according to CV risk, 38% of patients on TDF had LDL above their CV target; this prevalence increases to 60% after switching to TAF (P < 0.0001). The presence of cobicistat in the combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) regimen was associated with an increased risk of LDL above the CV‐related target after switch to TAF [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1–5.1], P = 0.03) and with an increased prescription of lifestyle/therapeutic intervention (OR = 3.0, 95% CI: 1.7–5.3, P < 0.0001).

Discussion

Switching from TDF to TAF affects lipid parameters, and data from real life suggest a clinical relevance of this worsening that often leads clinicians to implement lifestyle/therapeutic interventions.
Cellular antioxidant effect of bioactive peptides and molecular mechanisms underlying: beyond chemical properties
Authors: Aguilar‐Toalá Jose Eleazar , Liceaga Andrea M.
Published: October 2020

Bioactive peptides are known for their chemical antioxidant activities. However, the importance of cellular antioxidant peptides has relatively been overlooked; nevertheless, scientific evidence supporting their potential to prevent chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress is progressively increasing. Cellular in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that antioxidant bioactive peptides possess cellular antioxidant activity, decrease oxidative stress biomarkers (e.g. lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS levels, apoptosis), increase diverse antioxidant enzymes’ activities and modulate levels of antioxidant molecules. These cellular in vitro bioactive properties and in vivo health effects suggest that antioxidant peptides could be used as components of functional foods and contribute to health promotion by improving specific physiological functions. This review highlights the scientific evidence about cellular antioxidant activity of bioactive peptides, their protective effect and underlying molecular mechanisms of action. It also describes the underlying antioxidant mechanisms and the structure–function relationship of antioxidant peptides.
Pilot multi‐site and reproducibility study of hypothalamic gliosis in children
Authors: Sewaybricker Leticia E. , Melhorn Susan J. , Papantoni Afroditi , Webb Mary F. , Hua Jun , Roth Christian L. , Carnell Susan , Schur Ellen A.
Published: October 2020

Objective

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of mediobasal hypothalamic (MBH) gliosis positively correlates with body mass index (BMI) in adults. This has neither been well explored in children nor have other brain regions involved in appetitive processing been tested for evidence of gliosis.

Methods

Multi‐site cross‐sectional study in children to test for differences in quantitative T2 signal (measure of gliosis) by region and to assess relationships with age and BMI. Participants underwent brain MRI using the same equipment and protocol to quantify T2 relaxation time in six bilateral regions of interest (ROIs): putamen, caudate, ventral striatum, amygdala, hippocampus and MBH, and three control regions: white matter, motor cortex and dorsal hypothalamus.

Results

Thirty‐one participants (61% female) were included in a combined sample from the University of Washington (N = 9) and John Hopkins University (N = 22). Mean age was 14 ± 3 years, and BMI z‐score was 0.7 ± 1.1 (26% with obesity). No study site‐related differences were seen in T2 relaxation time across all nine regions (chi2 (8): 9.46, P = .30). Regional differences in T2 relaxation time were present (P < .001). MBH presented longer T2 relaxation time, suggestive of gliosis, when compared to all regions (P < .001), including an intra‐hypothalamic control. Physiological age‐related declines in T2 relaxation times were found in grey matter ROIs, but not in the MBH (r = −0.14, P = .46). MBH was the only region with a positive correlation between T2 relaxation time and BMI z‐score (r = 0.38, P = .03).

Conclusions

In a multi‐site study, pilot data suggest that quantitative MRI detected normal maturation‐related brain variation as well as evidence that MBH gliosis is associated with increased adiposity in children.
The distinct MHC‐unrestricted immunobiology of innate‐like and adaptive‐like human γδ T cell subsets—Nature's CAR‐T cells
Authors: Willcox Carrie R. , Mohammed Fiyaz , Willcox Benjamin E.
Published: October 2020

Distinct innate‐like and adaptive‐like immunobiological paradigms are emerging for human γδ T cells, supported by a combination of immunophenotypic, T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire, functional, and transcriptomic data. Evidence of the γδ TCR/ligand recognition modalities that respective human subsets utilize is accumulating. Although many questions remain unanswered, one superantigen‐like modality features interactions of germline‐encoded regions of particular TCR Vγ regions with specific BTN/BTNL family members and apparently aligns with an innate‐like biology, albeit with some scope for clonal amplification. A second involves CDR3‐mediated γδ TCR interaction with diverse ligands and aligns with an adaptive‐like biology. Importantly, these unconventional modalities provide γδ T cells with unique recognition capabilities relative to αβ T cells, B cells, and NK cells, allowing immunosurveillance for signatures of "altered self" on target cells, via a membrane‐linked γδ TCR recognizing intact non‐MHC proteins on the opposing cell surface. In doing so, they permit cellular responses in diverse situations including where MHC expression is compromised, or where conventional adaptive and/or NK cell‐mediated immunity is suppressed. γδ T cells may therefore utilize their TCR like a cell‐surface Fab repertoire, somewhat analogous to engineered chimeric antigen receptor T cells, but additionally integrating TCR signaling with parallel signals from other surface immunoreceptors, making them multimolecular sensors of cellular stress.
Using Q‐methodology to explore mental health nurses’ knowledge and skills to use recovery‐focused care to reduce aggression in acute mental health settings
Authors: Lim Eric , Wynaden Dianne , Heslop Karen
Published: October 2020

When nurses practise recovery‐focused care, they contribute positively to the consumer’s mental health recovery journey and empower the person to be actively engaged in the management of their illness. While using recovery‐focused care is endorsed in mental health policy, many health professionals remain uncertain about its application with consumers who have a risk for aggression during their admission to an acute mental health inpatient setting. This paper reports on Australian research using Q‐methodology that examined the knowledge and skill components of recovery‐focused care that nurses use to reduce the risk for aggression. The data from forty mental health nurses revealed five factors that when implemented as part of routine practice improved the recovery outcomes for consumers with risk of aggression in the acute mental health settings. These factors were as follows: (I) acknowledge the consumers’ experience of hospitalization; (II) reassure consumers who are going through a difficult time; (III) interact to explore the impact of the consumer’s negative lived experiences; (IV) support co‐production to reduce triggers for aggression; and (V) encourage and support consumers to take ownership of their recovery journey. These findings provide nurses with a pragmatic approach to use recovery‐focused care for consumers with risk for aggression and contribute positively to the consumers’ personal recovery.
How phase (α and γ) and porosity affect specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity of thermal storage alumina
Authors: Huda Nazmul , Whitney Mark A. , Razmpoosh Mohammad H. , Gerlich Adrian P. , Wen John Z. , Corbin Stephen F.
Published: October 2020

Ceramic materials are a potential medium to store thermal energy with a reasonable cost. Respective thermodynamic properties of ceramics generally depend on temperature, and the energy storage capacity significantly varies with microstructure and porosity of ceramics. In order to improve understanding on the correlation between microstructure change and energy storage capacity, two commercial grades of alumina specimens are characterized. Their thermo‐mechanical properties are measured and correlated with temperature‐dependent material phases (ie, α and γ phases) and porosity. Higher values of the γ phase fraction and the porosity result in a lower mass‐based specific heat capacity when the temperature changes from room temperature to 1200°C. On the other hand, lower values of the γ phase fraction and the porosity lead to higher values of thermal conductivity and diffusivity between room temperature and 900°C. While both alumina specimens exhibit a decrease in specific heat capacity with increasing temperature for temperatures above 590°C, largely due to the phase transformation from γ to α, they both exhibit a decrease in thermal conductivity with increasing temperature in the same range. Generally a sample with a higher fraction of α phase and a lower porosity possesses a higher thermal conductivity. Quantitative relations are derived from experimental data.
Quality Output, Workplace Environment, and Employee Retention: The Positive Influence of Emotionally Intelligent Supply Chain Managers
Authors: Keller Scott B. , Ralston Peter M. , LeMay Stephen A.
Published: October 2020

Industry advancements are accelerating at phenomenal rates and changing the management of logistics and supply chain operations. Employers must develop supervision with advanced skills to manage and retain the most effective employees making up the new workforce of highly skilled and technologically advanced personnel. Emotional intelligence is a managerial competence leveraged by leaders to connect with subordinates on a psychologically emotional level. Our research evaluates and applies emotional intelligence within the context of managing logistics and supply chain employees. Recognizing that employees are critical to production and service delivery, logistics and supply chain managers must be able to cognitively analyze situations and connect with employees in a positive manner even during challenging times. We find that managers possessing higher levels of emotional intelligence are better equipped to help their employees manage emotions, build more positive working conditions for subordinates, increase retention of employees, and achieve more positive service outcomes for external customers.
Integrative analysis provides multi‐omics evidence for the pathogenesis of placenta percreta
Authors: Jiang Qingyuan , Dai Lei , Chen Na , Li Junshu , Gao Yan , Zhao Jing , Ding Li , Xie Chengbin , Yi Xiaolian , Deng Hongxin , Wang Xiaodong
Published: October 2020

Pernicious placenta previa with placenta percreta (PP) is a catastrophic condition during pregnancy. However, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear. In the present study, the placental tissues of normal cases and PP tissues of pernicious placenta previa cases were collected to determine the expression profile of protein‐coding genes, miRNAs, and lncRNAs through sequencing. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA), accompanied by miRNA target prediction and correlation analysis, were employed to select potential hub protein‐coding genes and lncRNAs. The expression levels of selected protein‐coding genes, Wnt5A and MAPK13, were determined by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemical staining, and lncRNA PTCHD1‐AS and PAPPA‐AS1 expression levels were determined by quantitative PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The results indicated that 790 protein‐coding genes, 382 miRNAs, and 541 lncRNAs were dysregulated in PP tissues, compared with normal tissues. WGCNA identified coding genes in the module (ME) black and ME turquoise modules that may be involved in the pathogenesis of PP. The selected potential hub protein‐coding genes, Wnt5A and MAPK13, were down‐regulated in PP tissues, and their expression levels were positively correlated with the expression levels of PTCHD1‐AS and PAPPA‐AS1. Further analysis demonstrated that PTCHD1‐AS and PAPPA‐AS1 regulated Wnt5A and MAPK13 expression by interacting with specific miRNAs. Collectively, our results provided multi‐omics data to better understand the pathogenesis of PP and help identify predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for PP.
Migration, residency and habitat utilisation by wild and cultured Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica) in a shallow brackish lagoon and inflowing rivers using acoustic telemetry
Authors: Noda Takuji , Wada Toshihiro , Mitamura Hiromichi , Kume Manabu , Komaki Takuhei , Fujita Tsuneo , Sato Tatsuma , Narita Kaoru , Yamada Manabu , Matsumoto Akira , Hori Tomoya , Takagi Junichi , Kutzer Alisa , Arai Nobuaki , Yamashita Yoh
Published: October 2020

This study monitored post‐release movements of 20 wild Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica) [mean ± S.D. 520.8 ± 92.3 mm total length (TL), 217.9 ± 146.3 g body mass (BM)] in a brackish water lagoon in northeastern Japan using acoustic telemetry to elucidate how wild Japanese eels use different river, estuary and marine environments. In addition, 12 cultured Japanese eels (TL = 578.9 ± 18.0 mm, BM = 344.9 ± 25.5 g) were released to understand the comparative behaviours of wild and cultured eels. Both types of eels were simultaneously released in the southern inner part of the lagoon in September 2016 where there are freshwater influences from a river. Following release, eight of the wild eels (40%) were largely sedentary near the released point (river mouth) and stayed at the site for overwinter. Nonetheless, several individuals showed behavioural plasticity of habitat use: three wild eels moved towards the northern part of the lagoon with stronger influence from the sea during May–July 2017. Two wild eels showed clear repeated movements from the lagoon to a river at night and returned to the lagoon by dawn for more than a week every day, and one wild eel migrated upstream for overwintering. Signals from 55% of the wild eels could be detected for more than 6 months, whereas those from all of the cultured eels were lost by December 2016, indicating a short resident time of large cultured eels (BM > 200 g) released in a brackish water area. One wild silver eel migrated to the outer sea during the ebb tide at night in November 2016, probably triggered by the decrease in water temperature (from c. 20°C to c. 13°C), and seven cultured eels similarly moved to the outer sea during October–November 2016. The results revealed the similarities (e.g., nocturnal movements) and differences (e.g., stay period and seasonal movements) in the behavioural characteristics of wild and cultured eels and indicated that habitat connectivity among river, estuary and coastal waters is crucial for enabling eels to efficiently utilise these productive habitats through their behavioural plasticity.
Seasonality of procedures in dermatology: Insights for practice management
Authors: Wang Jordan V. , Ugonabo Nkemjika , Geronemus Roy G.
Published: October 2020

This commentary examines the seasonality of various procedures in dermatology. With the rising demand of cosmetic procedures, it is important for physicians to understand seasonal trends of their services, which can offer insights to better forecast patient demand and optimize practice management. Although it has been anecdotally reported that the popularity of dermatologic procedures may peak during specific times of the year, available data on consumer behavior is limited. Our data fills this gap in the literature by examining the seasonality of dermatologic procedures and discussing the potential reasons for these findings. Physicians can utilize this information to optimize marketing strategies for particular procedures in order to capture greater market share and potentially increase practice revenues.
Abdominal cerclage in a patient with a neocervix with planned cesarean hysterectomy at delivery
Authors: Schaible Burk , Haught Erica , Vozar Amber , Riggs Kassandra , Calhoun Byron , Bush Stephen , Bush Stephen
Published: October 2020

Pregnancies complicated by congenital uterine anomalies (CUA) with a neocervix present a variety of challenges for the obstetrician. Abdominal cerclage can be utilized to help prevent preterm delivery in a patient with a neocervix. A 14‐year‐old female presented with right adnexal pain and was found to have a complex uterine anomaly resembling a noncommunicating unicornuate uterus with a cervix embedded in the rudimentary horn. A neocervix was created during surgical removal of the rudimentary horn. The patient became pregnant at age 24, and a transabdominal cerclage served an important role in the prevention of preterm delivery. Although limited data exists regarding the outcomes for the use of abdominal cerclage after the creation of a neocervix, term delivery is possible with said intervention.
Corporate Purpose Needs Democracy
Authors: Davis Gerald F.
Published: October 2020

The British Academy proposes that some of the manifest failures of shareholder capitalism can be addressed by requiring corporations to declare a purpose – a profitable solution to the problems of people and planet that does not cause additional problems – and creating a set of supporting mechanisms to ensure the pursuit of purpose. Shareholder capitalism has a lot to answer for, arguably including the opioid and obesity epidemics, the hazards to people and democracy posed by profit‐driven tech firms, and catastrophic climate change. Moreover, the forces that orient public corporations toward share price are powerful and pervasive, while public corporations are disappearing in the USA and the UK under the weight of outside pressures. If we want the corporations that remain to behave themselves, the surest path is more democracy: greater worker control from below, and more effective state regulation from above.
Education intervention with respect to the oral health knowledge, attitude, and behaviors of refugee families: A randomized clinical trial of effectiveness
Authors: Alrashdi Murad , Hameed Ahmed , Cervantes Mendez Maria Jose , Farokhi Moshtagh
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The study assessed the effectiveness of an oral health educational and behavioral intervention program in improving the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of refugee families.

Methods

This randomized 2‐arms, controlled, single site, clinical trial assessed the dental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to oral health at baseline and three times over the course of the 6 months of the intervention in recent refugee families. Participating families were educated on five topics in oral health in two 1‐hour sessions utilizing existing oral health education materials adapted to be linguistically and culturally appropriate for demonstration and instruction. Culturally competent techniques and motivational interviewing styles were also implemented during sessions. Pre/post surveys were used to assess changes to knowledge, attitudes, and behavior among refugee family participants.

Results

Out of the 66 families enrolled in the program, 52 (72 percent) completed visits over the course of 6 months. Differences between the intervention and control groups were not significant between baseline and 3 to 6 months later (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

A short‐term, culturally informed oral health educational and behavioral intervention program did not improve oral health‐related knowledge, attitudes, or behaviors in a diverse group of recent refugee families.
Patient participation in pro re nata medication in forensic psychiatric care: A nursing document analysis
Authors: Hipp Kirsi , Repo‐Tiihonen Eila , Kuosmanen Lauri , Katajisto Jouko , Kangasniemi Mari
Published: October 2020

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject

As‐needed medication is commonly used for psychiatric inpatients’ acute psychiatric and physical symptoms. Both patients and staff can initiate such medication.

Earlier studies have focused on what and how as‐needed medication has been used for psychiatric reasons. Little is known about how patients participate in planning, administration and evaluation of as‐needed medication and its alternatives. Nursing documentation provides an insight into these practices.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge

Long‐term inpatients have an active role in initiating as‐needed medication. However, patients and staff may have divergent opinions on the need for medication.

Alternatives to medication are mostly proposed by staff, and the feedback on as‐needed medication events is usually provided from nurses’ point of view.

What are the implications for practice

Patients’ views on decision‐making and evaluation should be noticed and documented more.

Patient participation can be promoted by planning as‐needed medication and its alternatives beforehand.

Introduction

Pro re nata (PRN) medication is unscheduled and used for acute physical and psychiatric symptoms. Previous studies have focused on the what and how of psychotropic PRN administration. Initiators of PRN events and occasions in which PRN was denied have rarely been studied. Thus, knowledge of patient participation in PRN is fragmented.

Aim

We aimed to describe and explain long‐term psychiatric inpatients’ participation in relation to planning and initiation of, as well as decisions and feedback on their PRN medication treatment.

Methods

We retrieved data from patients’ (n = 67) nursing documentation in a Finnish forensic psychiatric hospital in 2018. Data were analysed using statistical methods.

Results

All patients were prescribed PRN, and they initiated half of the 8,626 PRN events identified, in a 1‐year period. Non‐pharmacological strategies were rarely (6%) documented, and most of them were initiated by staff (76%). Feedback on PRN was usually from a nurse's viewpoint (71%). Nurses’ feedback was positive (80%) more often than patients’ (50%).

Discussion

Patient participation needs to be recognized throughout the PRN process. Future research could continue to explore patient participation in planning and evaluating their PRN medication.

Implications for practice

Patients participate in PRN by requesting medication. Their participation can be developed by supporting patients to communicate their choice of non‐pharmacological methods, take the initiative for medication when needed and disclose their viewpoint on the effects of PRN.
Shotgun metagenomics and microscopy indicate diverse cyanophytes, other bacteria, and microeukaryotes in the epimicrobiota of a northern Chilean wetland Nostoc (Cyanobacteria)
Authors: Satjarak Anchittha , Graham Linda E. , Piotrowski Michael J. , Trest Marie T. , Wilcox Lee W. , Cook Martha E. , Knack Jennifer J. , Arancibia‐Avila Patricia
Published: October 2020

Prokaryotic Nostoc, one of the world's most conspicuous and widespread algal genera (similar to eukaryotic algae, plants, and animals) is known to support a microbiome that influences host ecological roles. Past taxonomic characterizations of surface microbiota (epimicrobiota) of free‐living Nostoc sampled from freshwater systems employed 16S rRNA genes, typically amplicons. We compared taxa identified from 16S, 18S, 23S, and 28S rRNA gene sequences filtered from shotgun metagenomic sequence and used microscopy to illuminate epimicrobiota diversity for Nostoc sampled from a wetland in the northern Chilean Altiplano. Phylogenetic analysis and rRNA gene sequence abundance estimates indicated that the host was related to Nostoc punctiforme PCC 73102. Epimicrobiota were inferred to include 18 epicyanobacterial genera or uncultured taxa, six epieukaryotic algal genera, and 66 anoxygenic bacterial genera, all having average genomic coverage ≥90X. The epicyanobacteria Geitlerinemia, Oscillatoria, Phormidium, and an uncultured taxon were detected only by 16S rRNA gene; Gloeobacter and Pseudanabaena were detected using 16S and 23S; and Phormididesmis, Neosynechococcus, Symphothece, Aphanizomenon, Nodularia, Spirulina, Nodosilinea, Synechococcus, Cyanobium, and Anabaena (the latter corroborated by microscopy), plus two uncultured cyanobacterial taxa (JSC12, O77) were detected only by 23S rRNA gene sequences. Three chlamydomonad and two heterotrophic stramenopiles genera were inferred from 18S; the streptophyte green alga Chaetosphaeridium globosum was detected by microscopy and 28S rRNA genes, but not 18S rRNA genes. Overall, >60% of epimicrobial taxa were detected by markers other than 16S rRNA genes. Some algal taxa observed microscopically were not detected from sequence data. Results indicate that multiple taxonomic markers derived from metagenomic sequence data and microscopy increase epimicrobiota detection.
Anthropogenic impact on the historical phytoplankton community of Lake Constance reconstructed by multimarker analysis of sediment‐core environmental DNA
Authors: Ibrahim Anan , Capo Eric , Wessels Martin , Martin Isabel , Meyer Axel , Schleheck David , Epp Laura S.
Published: October 2020

During the 20th century, many lakes in the Northern Hemisphere were affected by increasing human population and urbanization along their shorelines and catchment, resulting in aquatic eutrophication. Ecosystem monitoring commenced only after the changes became apparent, precluding any examination of timing and dynamics of initial community change in the past and comparison of pre‐ and postimpact communities. Peri‐Alpine Lake Constance (Germany) underwent a mid‐century period of eutrophication followed by re‐oligotrophication since the 1980s and is now experiencing warm temperatures. We extended the period for which monitoring data of indicator organisms exist by analysing historical environmental DNA (eDNA) from a sediment core dating back some 110 years. Using three metabarcoding markers—for microbial eukaryotes, diatoms and cyanobacteria—we revealed two major breakpoints of community change, in the 1930s and the mid‐1990s. In our core, the latest response was exhibited by diatoms, which are classically used as palaeo‐bioindicators for the trophic state of lakes. Following re‐oligotrophication, overall diversity values reverted to similar ones of the early 20th century, but multivariate analysis indicated that the present community is substantially dissimilar. Community changes of all three groups were strongly correlated to phosphorus concentration changes, whereas significant relationships to temperature were only observed when we did not account for temporal autocorrelation. Our results indicate that each microbial group analysed exhibited a unique response, highlighting the particular strength of multimarker analysis of eDNA, which is not limited to organisms with visible remains and can therefore discover yet unknown responses and abiotic–biotic relationships.
Automatic modeling of prefabricated components with laser‐scanned data for virtual trial assembly
Authors: Li Dongsheng , Liu Jiepeng , Feng Liang , Zhou Yang , Qi Hongtuo , Chen Y. Frank
Published: October 2020

Virtual trial assembly (VTA) simulates the preassembly by verifying the correspondence of as‐built and as‐designed prefabricated component (PC) models in virtual reality. Notably, obtaining accurate as‐built PC models ensures the success of VTA. To accomplish it, current methods require matching the scanned PC data with the as‐designed model and manually modifying the model to approximate the actual dimensions, which is inefficient and leads to subjective errors. Therefore, it is desirable to develop an automatic modeling approach to obtain reliable as‐built PC models for further improving the efficiency of VTA. However, to the best of our knowledge, few studies have been done on the automatic modeling of as‐built PC models in VTA procedure. To this end, based on the prior knowledge of as‐designed model, this study proposes an approach to automatically reconstruct the primary structure via plane fitting and structural feature point calculation for geometric modeling. Then, two adaptive methods for inner boundary detection and round‐hole estimation are developed for the reconstruction of detailed structure. Finally, as‐built model visualization is realized based on the data extraction and modeling development of a building information modeling software. To verify the feasibility of the proposed approach, a validation experiment was conducted on a full‐scale precast concrete stair using two scanning resolutions (1/5 and 1/8). Experiment results show that the estimation of the dimensions consists of multifaceted corners that are stable and not affected by scanning resolution. Low scan resolution (1/8) may increase estimation errors of the edge, which has a single‐sided turning point. The experiment results also confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach for the automatic model reconstruction of as‐built PCs.
ALG3 contributes to the malignant properties of OSCC cells by regulating CDK‐Cyclin pathway
Authors: Shao Peihong , Wei Chengshi , Wang Yun
Published: October 2020

In this study, we planned to investigate the function and potential mechanisms of Alpha‐1,3‐mannosyltransferase (ALG3) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Data from TCGA were used to analyze ALG3 expression and its effect on the prognosis of patients with OSCC. KEGG enrichment analysis was applied to explore the pathways related to ALG3. ALG3 expression was measured by qPCR and Western blot. Cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, and transwell assays were implemented to detect the effects of ALG3 on malignant biological properties of OSCC cells. The expression of key proteins related to CDK‐Cyclin pathway was detected by Western blot. The expression of ALG3 in OSCC samples was higher than that of the control samples, and the increase of ALG3 expression was related to unfavorable prognosis of OSCC patients. Additionally, the elevated expression of ALG3 was associated with pathological stage, lymph node metastasis, and primary lesion in OSCC patients. ALG3 depletion blocked the growth and movement of OSCC cells, while over‐expression ALG3 reversed these phenomena. Moreover, exhaustion of ALG3 resulted in decreased expression of MCM7/CCNB2/CDK1/PCNA, while these phenomena were inversed after ALG3 up‐regulation. The enhancement of ALG3 expression promoted the aggressive biological behaviors of OSCC cells probably by promoting CDK‐Cyclin pathway.
A hybrid endocardial‐epicardial biventricular implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator to circumvent the tricuspid valve
Authors: Ip James E. , Krishnan Udhay , Girardi Leonard N. , Lerman Bruce B.
Published: October 2020

The development of pacing and defibrillator systems that do not involve hardware traversing the tricuspid annulus can be desirable in order to minimize lead‐related complications such as tricuspid regurgitation. Occasionally, primary tricuspid valve pathology (ie, infectious endocarditis, nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis, and carcinoid disease) or congenital heart disease prohibits use of transvenous leads and alternative strategies are required to provide pacing or defibrillation. We describe such a case in which a biventricular implantable cardioverter defibrillator was implanted using a hybrid system involving endocardial and epicardial components.
Autoinflammatory disease mimicking acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy
Authors: Heck Emma , Johnson Nicole , Ramien Michele
Published: October 2020

The autoinflammatory diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by early appearance of symptoms and characteristic flares of fever plus signs of internal inflammation, including various skin manifestations. We describe a 2.5‐year‐old boy who presented with fever, purpuric skin lesions, and edema, the classic clinical triad of acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy (AHEI). Although AHEI was our initial leading diagnosis, additional history revealed that these episodes were recurrent, and further investigation lead to a diagnosis of tumor necrosis factor receptor–associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS). This case report affirms the broad clinical spectrum of the autoinflammatory diseases and reinforces the importance of obtaining a thorough history of previous episodes of skin and extracutaneous inflammation in patients with a clinical diagnosis of AHEI.
Diagnostic disagreement between clinical standard histopathological‐ and retrospective assessment of histopathology‐based gastrointestinal graft‐versus‐host disease in children
Authors: Mårtensson Thomas , Szakos Attila , Mellgren Karin , Toporski Jacek , Arvidson Johan , Mattsson Jonas , Gustafsson Britt , Casswall Thomas H.
Published: October 2020

Background

No previous paediatric study has evaluated the frequency of diagnostic disagreement between clinical standard histopathological assessment (CSHA) and retrospective, independent, histopathological assessment (RIHA) of gastrointestinal Graft‐Versus‐Host Disease (GI‐GVHD)

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, based on gastrointestinal biopsies collected from allogeneic HSCT‐treated children (<18 years) with symptom‐based GI‐GVHD, we evaluated; disagreement of histopathology‐based GI‐GVHD diagnosis in CSHA vs RIHA, and potential clinical consequences of differences between the assessments. The CSHA‐based diagnoses were retrieved from histopathology reports. The RIHA was performed by one pathologist, blinded to the CSHA outcomes and based on the minimal criteria for histopathology‐based GI‐GVHD diagnosis by the NIH 2014.

Results

Seventy children with 92 endoscopic occasions (including 22 re‐endoscopies) were enrolled. GI‐GVHD was observed in 73% (67/92) of the endoscopies in the RIHA and in 54% (50/92) in the CSHA (P = .014). The RIHA confirmed 94% (47/50) with GI‐GVHD and 52% (22/42) with non‐GI‐GVHD diagnoses, established in the CSHA. Disagreement, that is endoscopic occasions with GI‐GVHD solely detected in RIHA or detection of GI‐GVHD in CSHA but not in RIHA, was observed in 20/42 (48%) and 3/50 (6%), respectively (McNemar's test, P = .0008). The risk of a subsequent re‐endoscopy was higher in endoscopic occasions with GI‐GVHD detected in RIHA but not in CSHA vs if non‐GI‐GVHD were detected in both readings (P = .005).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that in children with symptom‐based GI‐GVHD without histopathological confirmation in CSHA, a second, NIH 2014 based histopathological assessment should be considered before performing a re‐endoscopy.