bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total thyroidectomy is superior for initial treatment of thyroid cancer
Authors: Han Lin , Li Wenlei , Li Yingxue , Wen Wenjuan , Yao Yumin , Wang Yongkun
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The incidence of thyroid cancer has increased annually, and has a heavy psychological and economic burden on the society and individuals. Based on thyroid cancer data from patients treated in Liaocheng People's Hospital in 2017, with Chinese national and regional characteristics, in this study we addressed the controversy of which initial thyroid surgical mode, lobectomy, or total thyroidectomy is the most effective.

Patients and methods

Clinical and pathological data from 552 patients with thyroid cancer, who were initially diagnosed and treated surgically, were collected from the Department of Thyroid Surgery. Among them, 40 patients underwent endoscopic surgery, with resection, including lobectomy + central lymph node dissection of the affected lobe, while 512 cases underwent total thyroidectomy + central lymph node dissection.

Results

The metastasis rate for all patients was 59.42%, with lymph node metastasis of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma of 46.92%; however, for patients with tumors >2 cm, the proportion developing metastasis was increased to 77.53%.

Conclusion

In thyroid cancer, rates of neck lymph node metastasis are high, particularly among patients with risk factors for poor prognosis. Our data suggest that initial treatment should comprise at least total thyroidectomy + central lymph node dissection in China, at least in tumors larger than 1 cm, to avoid the risks associated with secondary surgery and effects on patient quality of life.
‘We walked side by side through the whole thing’: A mixed‐methods study of key elements of community‐based participatory research partnerships between rural Aboriginal communities and researchers
Authors: Snijder Mieke , Wagemakers Annemarie , Calabria Bianca , Byrne Bonita , O'Neill Jamie , Bamblett Ronald , Munro Alice , Shakeshaft Anthony
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To advance the rural practice in working with Aboriginal communities by (a) identifying the extent of community partners' participation in and (b) operationalising the key elements of three community‐based participatory research partnerships between university‐based researchers and Australian rural Aboriginal communities.

Design

A mixed‐methods study. Quantitative survey and qualitative one‐on‐one interviews with local project implementation committee members and group interviews with other community partners and project documentation.

Setting

Three rural Aboriginal communities in New South Wales.

Participants

Thirty‐seven community partners in three community‐based participatory research partnerships of which 22 were members of local project implementation committees and 15 were other community partners who implemented activities.

Intervention

Community‐based participatory research partnerships to develop, implement and evaluate community‐based responses to alcohol‐related harms.

Main outcomes measures

Community partners' extent of and experiences with participation in the community‐based participatory research partnership and their involvement in the development and implementation processes.

Results

Community partners' participation varied between communities and between project phases within communities. Contributing to the community‐based participatory research partnerships were four key elements of the participatory process: unique expertise of researchers and community‐based partners, openness to learn from each other, trust and community leadership.

Conclusion

To advance the research practice in rural Aboriginal communities, equitable partnerships between Aboriginal community and research partners are encouraged to embrace the unique expertise of the partners, encourage co‐learning and implement community leadership to build trust.
Trajectories of antidepressant drugs during pregnancy: A cohort study from a community‐based sample
Authors: Cabaillot Aurélie , Bourset Alexandra , Mulliez Aurélien , Delorme Jessica , Orri Massimiliano , Vicard‐Olagne Mathilde , Zenut Marie Christine , Tournier Marie , Gallot Denis , Authier Nicolas , Chenaf Chouki , Laporte Catherine
Published: August 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to monitor the trajectories of antidepressant use during pregnancy and the postpartum period among women chronically treated with antidepressants before their pregnancy, and to assess characteristics associated with each trajectory.

Methods

This cohort study included all pregnant women whose data were included in the General Sample of Beneficiaries (EGB) database affiliated with the French Health Insurance System, from 2009 to 2014. Women were followed up until 6 months after childbirth. Chronic treatment was defined as exposure over the 6‐month period preceding pregnancy. A group‐based trajectory model (GBMT) was estimated to identify distinctive longitudinal profiles of antidepressant use.

Results

Among 760 women chronically treated with antidepressants before their pregnancy, 55.8% stopped their treatment permanently in the first trimester, 20.4% discontinued it for a minimum of 3 months and resumed it postpartum, and 23.8% maintained it throughout pregnancy and postpartum. No sociodemographic or medical characteristics were associated with any trajectory group. Women who maintained treatment presented more frequent obstetric complications and postpartum psychiatric disorders. Among women who interrupted treatment, prescription of benzodiazepines and anxiolytics decreased initially but rose postpartum to a higher level than before pregnancy.

Conclusions

Pregnant women treated with antidepressant require a re‐evaluation of psychiatric treatment. It is necessary to pay attention to obstetric complications for severely depressed women. Additionally, as relapse was associated with increased benzodiazepine use, it is important to carefully monitor all women who stop antidepressant treatment during pregnancy.
Different forms of corporate philanthropy, different effects: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Luo Ben Nanfeng , Xing Lu , Zhang Rongrong , Fu Xinyu , Zhang Yucheng
Published: August 2020

This study investigates how different types of corporate philanthropy impact employees' life satisfaction. Grounded in signaling theory, we explore and clarify the nuances among three types of corporate philanthropy values: the absolute value of corporate philanthropy, the value of a firm's corporate philanthropy relative to its past level, and the value of corporate philanthropy relative to the firm size. Results of multilevel analyses on a large scale sample with 218 firms and 2,261 employees at two time points reveal that: the absolute value of corporate philanthropy positively influences employees' life satisfaction; the value of a firm's corporate philanthropy relative to its past philanthropy negatively impacts employees’ life satisfaction; and the value of corporate philanthropy relative to the firm size positively affects employees' life satisfaction. The results indicate that the influences of corporate philanthropy on employees' life satisfaction vary depending on the evaluation benchmarks. Firms may benefit by taking their size and past philanthropy into consideration when making corporate philanthropy investment decisions.
Vulnerability to psychological stress‐induced anorexia in female mice depends on blockade of ghrelin signal in nucleus tractus solitarius
Authors: Yamada Chihiro , Iizuka Seiichi , Nahata Miwa , Hattori Tomohisa , Takeda Hiroshi
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose

Women have a higher incidence of eating disorders than men. We investigated whether the effects of ghrelin on feeding are affected by sex and stress, and to elucidate the mechanisms that may cause sex differences in stress‐mediated anorexia, focusing on ghrelin.

Experimental Approach

Acylated ghrelin was administered to naïve and psychologically stressed male and female C57BL/6J mice, followed by measurements of food intake and plasma hormone levels. Ovariectomy was performed to determine the effects of ovary‐derived oestrogen on stress‐induced eating disorders in female mice. The numbers of Agrp or c‐Fos mRNA‐positive cells and estrogen receptor α/c‐Fos protein‐double‐positive cells were assessed.

Key Results

Ghrelin administration to naïve female mice caused a higher increase in food intake, growth hormone secretion, Agrp mRNA expression in the arcuate nucleus and c‐Fos expression in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) than in male mice. In contrast, psychological stress caused a more sustained reduction in food intake in females than males. The high sensitivity of naïve females to exogenous ghrelin was attenuated by stress exposure. The stress‐induced decline in food intake was not abolished by ovariectomy. Estrogen receptor‐α but not ‐β antagonism prevented the decrease in food intake under stress. Estrogen receptor‐α/c‐Fos‐double‐positive cells in the NTS were significantly increased by stress only in females.

Conclusion and Implications

Stress‐mediated eating disorders in females may be due to blockade of ghrelin signalling via estrogen receptor‐α activation in the NTS. Targeting the ghrelin signal in the brain could be a new treatment strategy to prevent these disorders.
Protective effects of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol against enterotoxin‐induced acute respiratory distress syndrome are mediated by modulation of microbiota
Authors: Mohammed Amira , Alghetaa Hasan K. , Zhou Juhua , Chatterjee Saurabh , Nagarkatti Prakash , Nagarkatti Mitzi
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose

Staphylococcal enterotoxin‐B (SEB) is one of the most potent bacterial superantigens that exerts profound toxic effects by inducing a cytokine storm. Inhaled SEB can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which is often fatal and with no effective treatments.

Experimental Approach

Efficacy of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was tested in a mouse model of SEB‐mediated ARDS, in which lung inflammation, alterations in gut/lung microbiota and production of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) was measured. Gene dysregulation of lung epithelial cells was studied by transcriptome arrays. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed to confirm the role of microbiota in suppressing ARDS.

Key Results

While SEB triggered ARDS and 100% mortality in mice, THC protected the mice from fatality. Pyrosequencing analysis revealed that THC caused significant and similar alterations in microbiota in the lungs and gut of mice exposed to SEB. THC significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacterial species, Ruminococcus gnavus, but decreased pathogenic microbiota, Akkermansia muciniphila. FMT confirmed that THC‐mediated reversal of microbial dysbiosis played crucial role in attenuation of SEB‐mediated ARDS. THC treatment caused an increase in SCFA, of which propionic acid was found to inhibit the inflammatory response. Transcriptome array showed that THC up‐regulated several genes like lysozyme1 and lysozyme2, β‐defensin‐2, claudin, zonula‐1, occludin‐1, Mucin2 and Muc5b while down‐regulating β‐defensin‐1.

Conclusion and Implications

The study demonstrates for the first time that THC attenuates SEB‐mediated ARDS and toxicity by altering the microbiota in the lungs and the gut as well as promoting antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory pathways.
Maternal Reminiscing and Autobiographical Memory Features of Mother–Child Dyads in a Cross‐Cultural Context
Authors: Wu Yun , He Zijing , Jobson Laura
Published: August 2020

Maternal reminiscing styles and mother–child memory features were examined in a cross‐cultural context. Fifty‐five Chinese (Guangzhou, China) and 48 Australian (Melbourne, Australia) mother–child dyads (child age: 3–6 years) independently retrieved autobiographical memories and jointly discussed past events. Australian mothers used greater elaborative and supportive reminiscing and provided more specific memories than Chinese mothers. Australian children provided greater memory elaboration than Chinese children, but they did not differ in memory specificity. Maternal reminiscing styles and cultural group were independently predictive of child memory elaboration but not specificity. Nonetheless, moderation analyses showed that the two maternal reminiscing styles (elaborative and supportive) interacted to predict child memory specificity. These findings indicate the importance of culture and types of reminiscing on memory development.
DHA modulates MANF and TREM2 abundance, enhances neurogenesis, reduces infarct size, and improves neurological function after experimental ischemic stroke
Authors: Belayev Ludmila , Hong Sung‐Ha , Freitas Raul S. , Menghani Hemant , Marcell Shawn J. , Khoutorova Larissa , Mukherjee Pranab K. , Reid Madigan M. , Oria Reinaldo B. , Bazan Nicolas G.
Published: August 2020

Aims

Mesencephalic astrocyte‐derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) is a secretory neurotrophic factor protein that promotes repair after neuronal injury. The microglia cell surface receptor (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐2; TREM2) regulates the production of pro‐ and antiinflammatory mediators after stroke. Here, we study MANF and TREM2 expression after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and explore if docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) treatment exerts a potentiating effect.

Methods

We used 2 hours of the MCAo model in rats and intravenously administered DHA or vehicle at 3 hours after the onset of MCAo. Neurobehavioral assessment was performed on days 1, 3, 7, and 14; MANF and TREM2 expression was measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

Results

MANF was upregulated in neurons and astrocytes on days 1, 7, and 14, and TREM2 was expressed on macrophages in the ischemic penumbra and dentate gyrus (DG) on days 7 and 14. DHA improved neurobehavioral recovery, attenuated infarct size on days 7 and 14, increased MANF and decreased TREM2 expression in ischemic core, penumbra, DG, and enhanced neurogenesis on Day 14.

Conclusion

MANF and TREM2 protein abundance is robustly increased after MCAo, and DHA treatment potentiated MANF abundance, decreased TREM2 expression, improved neurobehavioral recovery, reduced infarction, and provided enhanced neuroprotection.
Ethics and biodiversity offsetting
Authors: Karlsson Mikael , Edvardsson Björnberg Karin
Published: August 2020

Biodiversity offsetting is an increasingly applied tool aiming to compensate for environmental damage caused by exploitation projects. Critics, however, raise concerns over the purported effectiveness of offsetting and question the ethical underpinnings and implications of offsetting. These ethical dimensions have largely been overlooked in research, which may lead to offsetting systems that fail to respect the values intended to be safeguarded. To address these dimensions, 5 ethical objections in the scientific literature were identified: offsetting violates nature's intrinsic value; losses of nature cannot be compensated for by human interventions; too little is known to make adequate trades; offsetting impedes virtuous dispositions toward nature; and offsetting has negative justice implications. We examined these objections and arguments against them based on the ethical concepts of intrinsic and instrumental values, anthropocentrism, nonanthropocentrism, and deontological, consequentialist, and virtue‐ethical paradigms. Both nonanthropocentric and anthropocentric concerns were expressed in deontological, consequential, and virtue‐ethical framings. Objections mostly had a deontological or virtue‐ethical basis, whereas counterarguments were based on consequential reasoning, but common ground in practice is often conceivable. Based on our findings, we formulated 10 recommendations for policy makers and 5 questions for practitioners to consider. We propose, for example, that policy makers clarify aims, legislate on no‐go areas, and govern the use of multipliers. We suggest that practitioners consider, for instance, how to improve case‐specific knowledge and promote learning and stakeholder engagement. We hope these recommendations and questions will encourage further discussion of the ethics of biodiversity offsets and ultimately strengthen the respect for biodiversity and human‐welfare values at stake in offsetting projects.
Non‐randomized studies should be considered for assessing surgical techniques in rectal prolapse: prospective cohort study
Authors: Lee M. J. , Dimairo M. , Edwards J , Hawkins D. J. , Hind D. , Knowles C. H. , Hooper R. , Brown S. R. ,   Waiter study collaborative
Published: August 2020

Aim

Randomized trials comparing surgical techniques for rectal prolapse are not always feasible. We assessed whether non‐randomized comparisons of those who have had surgery with those still waiting would be confounding baseline health status.

Method

This was a prospective cohort study in seven UK hospitals. Participants were ≥ 18 years and listed for surgical interventions of equivalent intensity for rectal prolapse. They were defined as short or long waiters (≤ 18 or > 18 weeks, respectively). Time on the waiting list was compared with baseline comorbidity (Charlson comorbidity index) and change from baseline in health status (EQ‐5D‐5L) at the time of surgery.

Results

In all, 203 patients were analysed. Median (interquartile range) waiting time was 13.7 weeks (8.1, 20.4) varying across sites. Baseline comorbidity was not an important predictor of waiting time. Median Charlson comorbidity index was 2 (0, 3) for short and 1 (0, 3) for long waiters. A change in waiting time by a week was associated with negligible improvement in the EQ‐5D‐5L index of 0.001 (95% CI −0.000 to 0.003, P = 0.106).

Conclusion

Negligible change in patient reported health status while on the waiting list and lack of effect of comorbidities in influencing waiting time support the use of non‐randomized pre‐/post‐studies to compare the effects of surgical interventions for rectal prolapse.
A single‐center long‐term experience with marginal donor utilization for heart transplantation
Authors: Galeone Antonella , Lebreton Guillaume , Coutance Guillaume , Demondion Pierre , Schmidt Matthieu , Amour Julien , Varnous Shaida , Leprince Pascal
Published: August 2020

Background

To evaluate the early and late outcome of heart transplantation (HT) using marginal (MDs) and optimal donors (ODs).

Methods

Clinical records of recipients transplanted between July 2004 and December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. MDs were defined as follows: age >55 years, high‐dose inotropic support, left ventricular ejection fraction <45%, left ventricular hypertrophy, donor to recipient predicted heart mass ratio <0.86, ischemic time >4 hours.

Results

A total of 412 (55%) recipients received an organ from a MD; recipients who received an organ from an OD had less primary graft dysfunction (PGD) (25% vs 38%; P < .001), less acute renal failure (23% vs 34%; P < .001), and higher survival rates (90.2% vs 81.8% at 30 days, 79.5% vs 71.1% at 1 year, 51.8% vs 45.4% at 12 years; P = .01) than recipients who received an organ from a MD. There was no statistically significant difference in 30‐day conditional survival between the two groups (survival rates 57.4% vs 55.5% at 12 years; P = .43). PGD, perioperative hemodialysis, and sepsis were independent risk factors of mortality at multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Utilization of MDs for HT is associated with a higher incidence of PGD and acute renal failure, and a reduction of 30‐day survival.
Investigation of tobacco and alcohol co‐consumption in Thailand: A joint estimation approach
Authors: Witvorapong Nopphol , Vichitkunakorn Polathep
Published: August 2020

Introduction and Aims

Most studies on tobacco and alcohol consumption empirically model the two behaviours separately. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the patterns of tobacco and alcohol co‐consumption in Thailand, modelling the two behaviours jointly and identifying whether they complemented or substituted each other.

Design and Methods

Data were extracted from the 2007, 2011, 2014 and 2017 waves of the nationally representative Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption Survey in Thailand. A bivariate ordered probit model, under which the frequencies of tobacco and alcohol consumption were jointly estimated, was performed on the repeated cross‐sectional sample as well as each of the cross‐sectional samples.

Results

Based on the repeated cross‐sectional sample (n = 411 981), the analyses suggested that tobacco and alcohol consumption were complementary behaviours. The predicted conditional probabilities revealed that the more frequently one drank, the higher the likelihood that he/she also smoked at a higher frequency, and vice versa.

Discussion and Conclusions

Given the complementary nature of tobacco and alcohol consumption in Thailand, tobacco‐ and alcohol‐prevention strategies should be realigned and better co‐ordinated for greater efficiency. The net impacts of a given tobacco or alcohol policy should be incorporated into the optimal policy design to avoid duplication of efforts. Also, future studies of tobacco and alcohol consumption should consider modelling the two behaviours together using a joint estimation approach.
Bone lesions in hairy cell leukemia: Diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Robak Pawel , Jesionek‐Kupnicka Dorota , Kupnicki Piotr , Polliack Aaron , Robak Tadeusz
Published: August 2020

Skeletal involvement is a rare complication of hairy cell leukemia (HCL) with an incidence of approximately 3%. Bone lesions are commonly lytic, and the most common sites of involvement are the femoral head and neck. Skeletal involvement is typically associated with high tumor burden and bone marrow infiltration. However, isolated cases of skeletal disease without splenomegaly or bone marrow involvement are occasionally reported. This review focuses on skeletal lesions in HCL, particularly the pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment approach. A literature review of the MEDLINE database for articles in English concerning hairy cell leukemia, skeletal symptoms, bone involvement was conducted via PubMed. Publications from January 1970 to May 2020 were scrutinized. Additional relevant publications were obtained by reviewing the references from the chosen articles.
Antiseizure drug efficacy and tolerability in established and novel drug discovery seizure models in outbred vs inbred mice
Authors: Koneval Zachery , Knox Kevin M. , Memon Ali , Zierath Dannielle K. , White H. Steve , Barker‐Haliski Melissa
Published: August 2020

Objective

Initial identification of new investigational drugs for the treatment of epilepsy is commonly conducted in well‐established mouse acute and chronic seizure models: for example, maximal electroshock (MES), 6 Hz, and corneal kindling. Comparison of the median effective dose (ED50) of approved antiseizure drugs (ASDs) vs investigational agents in these models provides evidence of their potential for clinical efficacy. Inbred and outbred mouse strains exhibit differential seizure susceptibility. However, few comparisons exist of the ED50 or median behaviorally impairing dose (TD50) of prototype ASDs in these models in inbred C57Bl/6 vs outbred CF‐1 mice, both of which are often used for ASD discovery.

Methods

We defined the strain‐related ED50s and TD50s of several mechanistically distinct ASDs across established acute seizure models (MES, 6 Hz, and corneal‐kindled mouse). We further quantified the strain‐related effect of the MES ED50 of each ASD on gross behavior in a locomotor activity assay. Finally, we describe a novel pharmacoresistant corneal‐kindling protocol that is suitable for moderate‐throughput ASD screening and demonstrates highly differentiated ASD sensitivity.

Results

We report significant strain‐related differences in the MES ED50 of valproic acid (CF‐1 ED50: 90 mg/kg [95% confidence interval (CI) 165–214] vs C57Bl/6: 276 mg/kg [226–366]), as well as significant differences in the ED50 of levetiracetam in the pharmacoresistant 6 Hz test (CF‐1: 22.5 mg/kg [14.7–30.2] vs C57Bl/6: >500 mg/kg [CI not defined]). There were no differences in the calculated TD50 of these ASDs between strains. Furthermore, the MES ED50 of phenobarbital significantly enhanced locomotor activity of outbred CF‐1, but not C57Bl/6, mice.

Significance

Altogether, this study provides strain‐related information to differentiate investigational agents from ASD standards‐of‐care in commonly employed preclinical discovery models and describes a novel kindled seizure model to further explore the mechanisms of drug‐resistant epilepsy.
Magnetic resonance imaging changes of the navicular bursa following navicular bursoscopy in seven horses
Authors: Hoaglund E. L. , Barrett M. F.
Published: August 2020

Navicular syndrome is a multifactorial disease process in horses with multiple structures in the foot contributing to lameness. Surgical debridement is a treatment option for lesions of the navicular bursa and deep digital flexor tendon. This retrospective case series describes the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of the navicular bursa following bursoscopy. Seven horses (three being bilaterally affected) with forelimb lameness isolated to the foot, and pre‐ and post‐operative MRI were included. All limbs had concurrent lesions associated with the deep digital flexor tendon, navicular bone, impar ligament, collateral sesamoidean ligament and/or distal interphalangeal joint. All bursae developed or had progression of proliferative bursal tissue following surgery. At recheck MRI, following rehabilitation protocols, almost all horses had improved to resolved lameness with relatively unchanged concurrent lesions despite the navicular bursa appearance worsening. Outcomes for return to work were poor with only two horses going back to the previous level of work.
Sorghum biomass production in the continental United States and its potential impacts on soil organic carbon and nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Gautam Sagar , Mishra Umakant , Scown Corinne D. , Zhang Yao
Published: August 2020

National scale projections of bioenergy crop yields and their environmental impacts are essential to identify appropriate locations to place bioenergy crops and ensure sustainable land use strategies. In this study, we used the process‐based Daily Century (DAYCENT) model with site‐specific environmental data to simulate sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) biomass yield, soil organic carbon (SOC) change, and nitrous oxide emissions across cultivated lands in the continental United States. The simulated rainfed dry biomass productivity ranged from 0.8 to 19.2 Mg ha−1 year−1, with a spatiotemporal average of  Mg ha−1 year−1, and a coefficient of variation of 35%. The average SOC sequestration and direct nitrous oxide emission rates were simulated as  Mg CO2e ha−1 year−1 and  Mg CO2e ha−1 year−1, respectively. Compared to field‐observed biomass yield data at multiple locations, model predictions of biomass productivity showed a root mean square error (RMSE) of 5.6 Mg ha−1 year−1. In comparison to the multi State (n = 21) NASS database, our results showed RMSE of 5.5 Mg ha−1 year−1. Model projections of baseline SOC showed RMSE of 1.9 kg/m2 in comparison to a recently available continental SOC stock dataset. The model‐predicted N2O emissions are close to 1.25% of N input. Our results suggest 10.2 million ha of cultivated lands in the Southern and Lower Midwestern United States will produce >10 Mg ha−1 year−1 with net carbon sequestration under rainfed conditions. Cultivated lands in Upper Midwestern states including Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Michigan, and North Dakota showed lower sorghum biomass productivity (average: 6.9 Mg ha−1 year−1) with net sequestration (average: 0.13 Mg CO2e ha−1 year−1). Our national‐scale spatially explicit results are critical inputs for robust life cycle assessment of bioenergy production systems and land use‐based climate change mitigation strategies.
The Leydig cell tumour Scaled Score (LeSS): a method to distinguish benign from malignant cases, with additional correlation with MDM2 and CDK4 amplification
Authors: Colecchia Maurizio , Bertolotti Alessia , Paolini Biagio , Giunchi Francesca , Necchi Andrea , Paganoni Anna M , Ricci Costantino , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Dagrada Gian P
Published: August 2020

Aims

To investigate the morphological and molecular characteristics of Leydig cell tumours (LCTs) of the testis for the identification of cases that may metastasise.

Methods and results

Six parameters for a predictive model of the metastatic risk were evaluated in 37 benign and 14 malignant LCTs of the testis [LCT Scaled Score (LeSS)]. The tumour size (benign LCTs, mean 13.3 mm; malignant LCTs, mean 44 mm) (P < 0.001) and five other parameters (infiltrative margins, necrosis, vascular invasion, mitotic count, and nuclear atypia) showed significant differences (Wilcoxon's test, P < 0.001). Eight metastatic LCTs and one benign LCT had infiltrative margins. Foci of coagulative necrosis occurred in 10 metastatic LCTs, whereas vascular invasion was identified in nine of 14 metastatic LCTs and none of 37 benign LCTs. Benign LCTs showed <2 mitoses/10 high‐power fields (HPFs), whereas a high mitotic count (range, 3–50 mitoses/10 HPFs) was a feature of malignant LCTs. These parameters were selected by use of an inferential analysis based on univariate logistic regression models to develop a score. A LeSS of <4 correctly identified all histologically and clinically benign LCTs. A LeSS of ≥4 correctly identified all malignant LCTs. MDM2 and CDK4 immunostains were applied in all 51 cases: benign LCTs were negative; three of 11 malignant LCTs (27%) showed strong and diffuse immunopositivity and high levels of MDM2 and CDK4 amplification as determined with fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation analysis and next‐generation sequencing.

Conclusion

We provide a new tool, the LeSS, for the prediction of malignant behaviour in LCTs.
Effects of novel modified atmosphere packaging on lipid quality and stability of sardine (Sardina pilchardus) fillets
Authors: de Aguiar Saldanha Pinheiro Ana Cristina , Tappi Silvia , Patrignani Francesca , Lanciotti Rosalba , Romani Santina , Rocculi Pietro
Published: August 2020

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is an efficient method to increase shelf‐life of fishery products by inhibiting bacterial growth and oxidative reactions. Beside the traditional gases used for MAP, novel gases such as argon (Ar) and nitrous oxide (N2O) were approved for food use in the European Union. The present research investigates the effect of MAP with unconventional gas mixtures, that previously positively affected microbial shelf‐life, on colour, lipid oxidation and sensorial characteristics of sardine fillets during storage. Four atmosphere conditions were tested: Air (20.8% O2/79.2% N2), N2 (30% CO2/70% N2), N2O (30% CO2/70% N2O) and Ar (30% CO2/70% Ar). Samples were stored for 12 days at 3 °C. Results showed that the removal of oxygen significantly inhibited the oxidation process; however, most of the investigated parameters related to fat oxidation did not show any improvement, except for a slight decrease in lipid hydrolysis and improvement in sensory properties in the packaging containing Ar.
Mutations in myelodysplastic syndromes: Core abnormalities and CHIPping away at the edges
Authors: Caponetti Gabriel C. , Bagg Adam
Published: August 2020

The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous constellation of hematologic malignancies characterized by aberrant differentiation and clonal expansion of abnormal myeloid cells that initially manifest with ineffective hematopoiesis and consequent cytopenias. The prognosis of MDS is variable and depends on clinical and hematologic parameters, cytogenetic and molecular findings, as well as comorbidities. Gene sequencing studies have uncovered remarkable genomic complexity within MDS, based on the presence of recurrent and sometimes co‐operating mutations in genes encoding proteins that play a role in numerous biologic pathways. Although the treatment of MDS is currently limited to the use of hypomethylating, immunomodulatory, or erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents, improved understanding of the molecular underpinnings of its pathophysiology has led to the development of multiple targeted treatments that are poised to be added to the therapeutic armamentarium. This review will focus on the role of mutations in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis of MDS and how the discovery of clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) might impact the utility of detecting mutations in the diagnosis of MDS.
A Switch or a Process? Disentangling the Effects of Union Membership on Political Attitudes in Switzerland and the UK
Authors: Hadziabdic Sinisa , Baccaro Lucio
Published: August 2020

The paper examines the effects of union membership on individual political attitudes using panel data for Swiss and British workers. Considering union membership as an on/off switch (member vs. non‐member), as it is often done, it is only possible to distinguish between a selection effect (unions attract like‐minded individuals) and a molding effect (the experience of membership has a transformational impact on the individual). Exploiting the longitudinal structure of the data reveals that union membership is best characterized not as a switch, but as a dynamic process involving anticipation effects (which start well before becoming affiliated) and maturation effects (which become noticeable only after a certain duration of membership and may not dissipate after leaving the union). Empirically, the selection effect appears the most important in the two countries we focus on, while the molding effect is less pronounced. Anticipation and maturation effects are also non‐negligible and hitherto unexplored.
Director liability reduction and stock price crash risk: Evidence from Korea
Authors: Choi Sanghak , Jung Hail
Published: August 2020

This article investigates the effect of a firm's adoption of director liability reduction coverage laws on their directors’ bad news hoarding behavior. Using unique Korean institutional settings, we find that, compared to directors of noncovered firms, those of covered firms are more likely to withhold negative information, proxied by stock price crash risk measures. Our regression analysis implies that legal protections of a company through DLR coverage makes directors relatively relaxed about litigation risks, which induces them to take advantage of the laws. Furthermore, we find that the relation manifests when the firm is owned by a high proportion of foreign investors, covered by many financial analysts, and is less regulated by listed exchange.
Hospital‐acquired pressure ulcer incident rates among hospitals that implement an education program for staff, patients, and family caregivers inclusive of an after discharge follow‐up program in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Mutairi Alya , Schwebius Deborah , Al Mutair Abbas
Published: August 2020

A tertiary public hospital in Saudi Arabia set out in 2015 to establish a team focused on reducing hospital‐acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs). The pressure ulcer prevention program (PUPP) had a multifaceted approach and data were collected for a period of 5 years. The results showed a definite reduction in the incidences of HAPUs. Many such programs show similar positive results and echo many of the same considerations of risk, prevention strategies, and the need for early intervention. However, none of the other studies either replicate the hospital's PUPP nor the extent of the positive and lasting effect of the program. Eager to determine the contributing factor(s) in order that the project success could be continued and possibly replicated in other quality improvement projects, it was decided that an examination and comparison of other similar programs and their results would be necessary in order to uncover the answer. It was determined that the in‐person in‐home discharge follow‐up portion of the program most likely had the largest effect on the outcomes. Outcomes that were supported by the pre‐work completed during the hospital portion of the PUPP towards reducing HAPUs and readmissions.
Rate‐dependent pacing failure after pacemaker implantation: Novel insights into the mechanism of using adenosine
Authors: Ohe Hisaharu , Oginosawa Yasushi , Yamagishi Yasunobu , Miyamoto Taro , Tsukahara Keita , Kohno Ritsuko , Abe Haruhiko , Otsuji Yutaka
Published: August 2020

An 82‐year‐old woman received pacemaker implantation for sick sinus syndrome. Two days after the implantation, electrocardiography showed 2:1 atrial pacing failure, followed by a bradycardia‐dependent increase in the atrial pacing threshold during a pacemaker examination. However, transient 1:1 atrial pacing capture recovered by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) administration, which was performed to evaluate the bradycardia‐dependent pacing failure mechanism. We considered this phenomenon to be caused by Phase 4 depolarization and avoided replacing this atrial lead. Three weeks later, the atrial pacing threshold had improved. We report the potential role of Phase 4 depolarization in a bradycardia‐dependent increase in pacing threshold by using ATP.
Prospective evaluation of the utility of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with non‐MRI‐conditional pacemakers and defibrillators
Authors: Padmanabhan Deepak , Kella Danesh , Isath Ameesh , Tandon Nidhi , Mulpuru Siva , Deshmukh Abhishek , Kapa Suraj , Mehta Ramila , Dalzell Connie , Olson Nora , Felmlee Joel , Jondal Mary L. , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Watson Robert E. , Cha Yong M. , Friedman Paul
Published: August 2020

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with legacy cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in situ is likely underutilized. We hypothesized the clinical benefit of MRI would outweigh the risks in legacy CIED patients.

Methods

This is a single‐center retrospective study that evaluated and classified the utility of MRI using a prospectively maintained database. The outcomes were classified as aiding in diagnosis, treatment, or both for the patients attributable to the MRI. We then assessed the incidence of adverse effects (AE) when the MRI was performed.

Results

In 668, MRIs performed on 479 patients, only 13 (1.9%) MRIs did not aid in the diagnosis or treatment of the patient. Power‐on reset events without clinical sequelae in three scans (0.45%) were the only AE. The probability of an adverse event happening without any benefit from the MRI scan was 1.1 × 10−4. A maximum benefit in diagnosis using MRI was obtained in ruling out space‐occupying lesions (121/185 scans, 65.4%). Scans performed in patients for elucidating answers to queries in treatment were most frequently done for disease staging at long term follow‐up (167/470 scans, 35.5%). Conservative treatment (184/470 scans, 39%) followed by medication changes (153/470 scans, 28.7%) were the most common treatment decisions made.

Conclusions

The utility of MRI in patients with non‐MRI‐conditional CIEDs far outweighs the risk of adverse events when imaging is done in the context of a multidisciplinary program that oversees patient safety.
Honokiol ameliorates angiotensin II‐induced hypertension and endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting HDAC6‐mediated cystathionine γ‐lyase degradation
Authors: Chi Zhexi , Le Truc Phan Hoang , Lee Sang Ki , Guo Erling , Kim Dongsoo , Lee Sanha , Seo Seung‐Yong , Lee Sook Young , Kim Jae Hyung , Lee Sang Yoon
Published: August 2020

Hypertension and endothelial dysfunction are associated with various cardiovascular diseases. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) produced by cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE) promotes vascular relaxation and lowers hypertension. Honokiol (HNK), a natural compound in the Magnolia plant, has been shown to retain multifunctional properties such as anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory activities. However, a potential role of HNK in regulating CSE and hypertension remains largely unknown. Here, we aimed to demonstrate that HNK co‐treatment attenuated the vasoconstriction, hypertension and H2S reduction caused by angiotensin II (AngII), a well‐established inducer of hypertension. We previously found that histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) mediates AngII‐induced deacetylation of CSE, which facilitates its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Our current results indicated that HNK increased endothelial CSE protein levels by enhancing its stability in a sirtuin‐3‐independent manner. Notably, HNK could increase CSE acetylation levels by inhibiting HDAC6 catalytic activity, thereby blocking the AngII‐induced degradative ubiquitination of CSE. CSE acetylation and ubiquitination occurred mainly on the lysine 73 (K73) residue. Conversely, its mutant (K73R) was resistant to both acetylation and ubiquitination, exhibiting higher protein stability than that of wild‐type CSE. Collectively, our findings suggested that HNK treatment protects CSE against HDAC6‐mediated degradation and may constitute an alternative for preventing endothelial dysfunction and hypertensive disorders.
There is no ‘I’ in team: Career concerns, risk‐taking incentives, and team outcomes
Authors: Ngo Phong T. H. , Roberts Steven
Published: August 2020

The National Basketball Association contracting rules provide plausibly exogenous variation in career concerns near contract end. We use this setting to study how individual career concerns affect risk‐taking behavior and can sabotage team performance. Using the frequency and duration of player injuries from 1991 to 2013 we measure individual risk‐taking behavior. We find that the average player's likelihood of missing a game due to injury falls by 0.06 percentage points (or over 100% relative to the mean injury rate) in the final 3 months of his contract, and when missing games due to injury is unavoidable, his recovery time drops by 22 days. However, “elite” players with virtually no career concerns actually miss more games due to injury. Finally, we find that elite players missing too many games and “average” players playing before healthy, combine to hurt team performance. For each additional player in the last 3 months on contract, the win probability for that team falls by over 2.6%.
The High Prevalence of Skin Diseases in Adults Aged 70 and Older
Authors: Sinikumpu Suvi‐Päivikki , Jokelainen Jari , Haarala Anna K. , Keränen Maija‐Helena , Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Huilaja Laura
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of skin findings and skin diseases in adults aged 70 and older, and to study the association between cutaneous diseases and socioeconomic status (SES), sex, and living status in the older population.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional study of Finnish adults aged 70 to 93 as part of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study.

SETTINGS

Skin examination data were available for 552 adults.

MEASUREMENTS

A whole‐body skin examination was performed by dermatologists. The associations between skin diseases and SES, sex, and living status were analyzed.

RESULTS

Nearly 80% of the adults had at least one skin disease that required further treatment or follow‐up. More than one‐third of the study cases (39.1%) had three or more simultaneous skin diseases. Skin diseases were more common in men than in women (P < .001). The most common skin diseases were tinea pedis (48.6%), onychomycosis (29.9%), rosacea (25.6%), actinic keratosis (22.3%), and asteatotic eczema (20.8%). Some association was found between skin diseases and SES and living status.

CONCLUSION

A whole‐body clinical skin examination is important because it reveals important diagnoses.
Relationship between hand hygiene and cutaneous findings during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Altunisik Toplu Sibel , Altunisik Nihal , Turkmen Dursun , Ersoy Yasemin
Published: August 2020

Background

In the current situation of the COVID‐19 pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) have to comply with hygiene conditions and use gloves more frequently and for a longer period of time than they would previously to avoid infection and prevent transmission.

Aims

We aimed to characterize the adverse skin reactions occurring after hand hygiene and glove use in HCWs in a tertiary university hospital to determine the possible causative factors and whether the use of these measures is affected.

Methods

Between April 15 and May 1, 2020, a cross‐sectional survey was conducted, using online questionnaire, answered by HCWs in a tertiary university hospital.

Results

The increase in general hand‐skin problems during the pandemic period was statistically significant (P = .004). The most common symptom was dryness. During the pandemic period, 67 (24.3%) HCWs thought that the conditions were caused by glove use, and 197 (71.4%) thought that they were due to alcohol‐based hand antiseptics. The incidence of other hand‐skin conditions except for vesicles was statistically higher in women than in men (P < .001).

Conclusions

Increased number of hand‐skin conditions during the pandemic should not be ignored, since hand hygiene and glove use are expected to increase.
Combined therapy with Endoret‐Gel and plasma rich in growth factors vs Endoret‐Gel alone in the management of facial rejuvenation: A comparative study
Authors: Navarro Roge , Pino Ander , Martínez‐Andrés Asunción , Garrigós Eva , Sánchez M. Leticia , Gallego Estefanía , Anitua Eduardo
Published: August 2020

Background

Skin suffers progressive decrement. An endogenous regenerative technology has been developed that has the versatility to provide an autologous injectable gel (Endoret‐Gel) or a liquid plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) based on the patient´s own platelet‐rich plasma.

Aims

To compare the efficacy of the combined therapy with Endoret‐Gel and PRGF versus Endoret‐Gel alone in the management of facial rejuvenation.

Methods

Twenty clinically diagnosed patients with aged skin received either Endoret‐Gel monotherapy or Endoret‐Gel + PRGF combined therapy. Patients underwent three sessions at one‐month intervals and were clinically assessed for six months. Corneometry, sebumetry, and high‐resolution topographic analysis were carried out. Patient self‐assessment questionnaires and clinical improvement scores were also performed.

Results

The combined therapy showed to promote a higher hydration index. These results were also significant for spot improvement at three months, while conversely, monotherapy with Endoret‐Gel demonstrated higher UV spot improvement. A significant decrease of sebum production and wrinkle development was observed for both treatment groups. Red areas also improved in a similar way at the end of the follow‐up period. After Endoret‐Gel or Endoret‐Gel + PRGF therapy, 30% and 70% of patients referred to be very satisfied, respectively. Accordingly, 40% and 80% showed a “very improved” esthetic performance. None of the patients reported a negative change and no adverse events were recorded.

Conclusion

Both Endoret‐Gel monotherapy and the combined treatment with PRGF were shown to promote facial rejuvenation and to palliate the age‐related cutaneous atrophy. The combined therapy may exert a synergistic effect that addresses both skin quality improvement and soft tissue restoration in a shorter period.