bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysregulated fatty acid metabolism in nasal polyp‐derived eosinophils from patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Miyata Jun , Fukunaga Koichi , Kawashima Yusuke , Watanabe Takashi , Saitoh Akina , Hirosaki Tomomi , Araki Yasutomo , Kikawada Toru , Betsuyaku Tomoko , Ohara Osamu , Arita Makoto
Published: January 2019

Background

Eosinophils are multifunctional granulocytes capable of releasing various cytokines, chemokines, and lipid mediators. We previously reported dysregulated fatty acid metabolism in peripheral blood‐derived eosinophils from patients with severe asthma. However, functional characteristics of eosinophils present in allergic inflammatory tissues remain largely uncharacterized.

Methods

We established a method for isolating CD69hi CCR3low CXCR4‐ siglec‐8int eosinophils from nasal polyps of patients with eosinophilic rhinosinusitis (NP‐EOS). Multi‐omics analysis including lipidomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics was performed to analyze NP‐EOS as compared to peripheral blood‐derived eosinophils from healthy subjects (PB‐EOS).

Results

Lipidomic analysis revealed impaired synthesis of prostaglandins and 15‐lipoxygenase (15‐LOX)‐derived mediators, and selective upregulation of leukotriene D4 production. Furthermore, proteomics and transcriptomics revealed changes in the expression of specific enzymes (GGT5, DPEP2, and 15‐LOX) responsible for dysregulated lipid metabolism. Ingenuity pathway analysis indicated the importance of type 2 cytokines and pattern recognition receptor pathways. Stimulation of PB‐EOS with eosinophil activators IL‐5, GM‐CSF, and agonists of TLR2 and NOD2 mimicked the observed changes in lipid metabolism.

Conclusion

Inflammatory tissue‐derived eosinophils possess a specific phenotype with dysregulated fatty acid metabolism that may be targeted therapeutically to control eosinophilic inflammatory diseases.
Effect of continuous venovenous haemodialysis on outcome and pharmacokinetics of arsenic species in a patient with acute promyelocytic leukaemia and acute kidney injury
Authors: Gao Chunlu , Fan Shengjin , Hostetter Thomas H. , Wang Wenjing , Li Jing , Guo Meihua , Zhou Jin , Hai Xin
Published: January 2019

This study presents outcome and pharmacokinetics of arsenic trioxide (ATO) metabolites in patients on continuous venovenous haemodialysis (CVVHD). Of 3 acute promyelocytic leukaemia patients receiving CVVHD in management of acute kidney injury, only 1 patient was included. The patient presented disseminated intravascular coagulation and acute kidney injury before induction therapy was conducted. CVVHD was performed and ATO was initiated. Species of ATO metabolites in plasma and effluent were analysed using high performance liquid chromatography–hydride generation–atomic fluorescence spectrometry. Plasma concentrations of AsIII, monomethylarsonic acid and dimethylarsinic acid with CVVHD were lower than those without CVVHD. Area under the concentration–time curve from 0 to the last sample with quantifiable concentration of AsIII without CVVHD was significantly higher than that with CVVHD (292.10 ng h/mL vs 195.86 ng h/mL, P = .037), which were not observed for monomethylarsonic acid and dimethylarsinic acid. Dialysate saturation of arsenic species was remarkable, especially for AsIII. Complete remission was achieved and renal function recovered. In this study, ATO can be used safely and effectively to treat acute promyelocytic leukaemia patients undergoing CVVHD without dose adjustment.
Preliminary evidence about irritability in patients with epilepsy treated by perampanel as first add‐on therapy compared to levetiracetam and valproic acid
Authors: Liguori Claudio , Turner Katherine , Izzi Francesca , Assogna Martina , Canevini Maria P. , Mercuri Nicola B. , Placidi Fabio
Published: January 2019

Aims

Irritability has been described as a frequent adverse event in patients affected by epilepsy and treated with perampanel (PER), levetiracetam (LEV), and less frequently with valproic acid (VPA). Since the questionnaire for irritability (I‐EPI) is a validated instrument to measure this psychiatric manifestation in patients affected by epilepsy, in this study we aimed at investigating the effect of PER as first add‐on therapy on I‐EPI. Moreover, we compared the effectiveness and I‐EPI scores obtained at 12‐month follow‐up visits in patients treated by PER, LEV, or VPA in order to measure irritability as a consequence of these treatments.

Methods

We collected data from 17 patients treated by PER, 16 patients treated by LEV, and 16 patients under VPA treatment followed for 12 months.

Results

We did not document significant changes of I‐EPI questionnaire between baseline and follow‐up in the PER group. As concerning the comparison of I‐EPI among PER, LEV, and VPA groups, we documented lower global scores in PER than both LEV (P< 0.05) and VPA (P< 0.05) groups. Moreover, patients under PER treatment showed lower scores than LEV and VPA (P< 0.05) in I‐EPI items measuring the gentle personality, anxiety of having epileptic seizures in front of others, and irritability in thinking that they can have an epileptic seizure.

Conclusions

This retrospective study described a stable and possibly lower degree of irritability in patients starting PER than LEV and VPA treatments, although we documented the comparable effectiveness of PER, LEV, and VPA as first add‐on treatments in patients affected by uncontrolled epileptic seizures. However, the small sample of patients included in this study and the absence of I‐EPI scores obtained at baseline visits in LEV and VPA groups require further investigations to confirm this preliminary evidence.
Fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies and formal construction based on fuzzy Petri nets
Authors: Cheng Haitao , Yan Li , Ma Zongmin , Ribarić Slobodan
Published: January 2019

Fuzzy spatio‐temporal knowledge is required in a wide range of application fields, including GIS, spatio‐temporal database, and artificial intelligence. Ontology, as a formal method of knowledge representation, plays a key role in the Semantic Web. Therefore, how to extend ontologies to represent fuzzy spatio‐temporal knowledge needs to be solved. In this paper, we propose an approach for representing fuzzy spatio‐temporal knowledge with ontologies and investigate a formal construction of fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies based on fuzzy Petri nets. First, we propose a formal definition of fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies. In addition, based on fuzzy description logic, a description logic named the fuzzy spatio‐temporal description logic, which provides a logical basis for the fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies, is presented. Furthermore, a fuzzy spatio‐temporal web ontology language, which is fuzzy and spatio‐temporal extension of standard ontology language OWL, is proposed to make the fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies easy to use and support efficient reasoning. On the basis of fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies, we investigate a formal approach for constructing fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies from fuzzy spatio‐temporal Petri nets, ie, transforming fuzzy spatio‐temporal Petri nets (including Petri net model and Petri net instance) into fuzzy spatio‐temporal ontologies at both structure and instance levels. Finally, we prove the correctness of the transformation and provide a detailed transformation example.
The prognostic role of Gender‐Age‐Physiology system in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients treated with pirfenidone
Authors: Harari Sergio , Caminati Antonella , Confalonieri Marco , Poletti Venerino , Vancheri Carlo , Pesci Alberto , Rogliani Paola , Luppi Fabrizio , Agostini Carlo , Rottoli Paola , Sanduzzi Zamparelli Alessandro , Sebastiani Alfredo , Della Porta Rossana , Salton Francesco , Messore Barbara , Tomassetti Sara , Rosso Roberta , Biffi Alice , Puxeddu Ermanno , Cerri Stefania , Cinetto Francesco , Refini Rosa Metella , Bocchino Marialuisa , Di Michele Loreta , Specchia Claudia , Albera Carlo ,   the ILDINET (Interstitial Lung Diseases Italian Network)
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Gender, age, physiology (GAP) system have proven to be an easy tool for predicting disease stages and survival in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients.

Objective

To validate mortality risk as determined by the GAP system in a real‐life multicentre IPF population treated with pirfenidone.

Methods

The study included patients who received pirfenidone for at least 6 months. The GAP calculator and the GAP index were determined. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality. The prognostic accuracy of the GAP system was evaluated with respect to calibration and discrimination.

Results and Conclusion

Sixty‐eight IPF patients were enrolled in the study. The median follow‐up was 2.4 years (range 0.1‐7.4 years). A total of 22 deaths as first event (32%) and of 10 lung transplantation (15%) were recorded. The cumulative incidence of mortality at 1, 2 and 3 years was 10.4%, 22.4% and 38.4%, respectively. The differences between the predicted and observed mortality were not significant for the GAP index while the observed mortality become comparable to that predicted by the GAP calculator only in the third year of follow‐up. The C‐index for the GAP index was 0.74 (95% CI 0.57‐0.93) while the C‐statistic value for the GAP calculator was 0.77 (95% CI 0.59‐0.95).
Prognostic value of the PaO2/FiO2 ratio determined at the end‐surgery stage of a double‐lung transplantation
Authors: Fessler Julien , Thes Jacques , Pirracchio Romain , Godement Mathieu , Sage Edouard , Roux Antoine , Parquin François , Cerf Charles , Fischler Marc , Le Guen Morgan
Published: January 2019

Introduction

We evaluated the prognostic role of the arterial oxygen partial pressure/fractional inspired oxygen ratio (PaO2/FiO2 ratio) measured at the end of double‐lung transplantation (DLT).

Methods

This was a monocentric cohort study of all consecutive DLT patients between January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2016, except patients with preoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass, postoperative ECMO, large patent foramen ovale, redo transplantation during the study period, and multiorgan transplantation.

Results

A total of 164 patients were included in the study; 45 had a PaO2/FiO2 ratio <200, 39 a ratio in the range 200‐300, and 80 a ratio >300. The risk of being in the lower ratio group is positively related to body mass index, preoperative pulmonary hypertension, and fibrosis. It is negatively related to emergency surgery, age, and intraoperative institution of ECMO. There was a trend for more grade 3 pulmonary graft dysfunction at day 3 in the worst PaO2/FiO2 ratio group. Mortality at 1000 days was similar for all patients and even after exclusion of patients who had required intraoperative ECMO.

Conclusion

PaO2/FiO2 ratio measured at the end of DLT does not forecast 1000‐day mortality.
Walking and living independently with spina bifida: a 50‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Oakeshott Pippa , Poulton Alison , Hunt Gillian M , Reid Fiona
Published: January 2019

Aim

To describe trends in walking and living independently in a cohort of consecutive cases of spina bifida, followed‐up over 50 years.

Method

From 1972 to 2017, a cohort of 117 (born 1963–1971, 50 males, 67 females) survivors and/or carers was surveyed approximately every 5 years by clinical examination and/or postal questionnaire/telephone interview. The Office for National Statistics provided details of deaths.

Results

The follow‐up in 2016 and 2017 was 99% (116/117). There were 37 survivors (17 males, 20 females) aged 46 to 53 years and 79 deaths (50y survival, 32%). The percentage of survivors who could walk more than 50m at the mean ages of 9 years, 18 years, 25 years, 30 years, 35 years, 40 years, 45 years, and 50 years was 51% (38/75), 50% (34/68), 33% (20/61), 30% (17/57), 30% (16/54), 30% (14/46), 31% (12/39), and 27% (10/37) respectively. However, the percentage living independently in the community after age 25 years increased over time: 23% (14/61); 37% (21/57); 41% (22/54); 39% (18/46); 56% (22/39); and 54% (20/37). Living independently at age 50 years was more common in survivors without a history of raised intracranial pressure or cerebrospinal fluid shunt revisions.

Interpretation

In this unselected cohort, mobility declined with age, possibly because of increasing obesity and deteriorating health. By contrast, partly because survival was better in those least disabled, the percentage living independently increased.

What this paper adds

By age 50 years, the percentage of patients who could walk more than 50m had declined to 27%.

By age 50 years, the percentage living independently had doubled to over 50%.

Survivors without a history of raised intracranial pressure or cerebrospinal fluid shunt revision are more likely to live independently.
Dactylopius opuntiae, a new prickly pear cactus pest in the Mediterranean: an overview
Authors: Mazzeo Gaetana , Nucifora Salvatore , Russo Agatino , Suma Pompeo
Published: January 2019

The Opuntia cochineal scale or false carmine cochineal scale, Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae), is spreading rapidly in many countries, especially in the Mediterranean basin, where it has become a serious pest of prickly pear crops, Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.) Miller (Cactaceae). This crop is an important food resource both for humans and livestock. The cochineal was originally used as a biological agent to control cactaceous weeds in many countries where Opuntiaceae had been introduced. Currently, in some countries where the prickly pear is no longer considered a weed but a productive crop, as in the Mediterranean area, D. opuntiae has changed its role from a highly prized biological control agent to the status of serious pest. This paper provides an overview of the current knowledge on D. opuntiae for farmers and stakeholders in order to indicate the most appropriate way to limit or counteract the spread of this pest especially in new cultivated areas.
Takeoff temperatures in Melitaea cinxia butterflies from latitudinal and elevational range limits: a potential adaptation to solar irradiance
Authors: Advani Nikhil K. , Parmesan Camille , Singer Michael C.
Published: January 2019

1. This study provides evidence that a heliophilic butterfly, the Glanville fritillary (Melitaea cinxia) has adapted differently to environmental variation across latitudes and elevations.

2. In cool air, basking M. cinxia orient themselves perpendicular to the sun's rays to gain heat and take off. During flight, solar heating is reduced because orientation perpendicular to the sun is no longer possible and convective cooling occurs. Consequently, M. cinxia have been shown to suffer net heat loss in flight, even in full sunshine. When flight duration is restricted in this way, the takeoff temperature becomes an important thermal adaptation.

3. Using a thermal imaging camera, takeoff temperatures were measured in experimental butterflies. Butterflies from the northern range limit in Finland took flight at slightly hotter temperatures than butterflies from the southern limit in Spain, and much hotter than butterflies from the elevational limit (1900–2300 m) in the French Alps. Butterflies from low‐elevation populations in southern France also took off much hotter than did the nearby Alpine population.

4. These results suggest that the influence of elevation is different from that of latitude in more respects than ambient temperature. Values of solar irradiance in the butterflies' flight season in each region show that insects from the coolest habitats, Finland and the Alps, experienced similar solar irradiance during basking, but that Finns experienced much lower irradiance in flight. This difference may have favored Finnish butterflies evolving higher takeoff temperatures than Alpine butterflies that also flew in cool air but benefited from more intense radiant energy after takeoff.
Clinical staging for youth at‐risk for serious mental illness
Authors: Addington Jean , Liu Lu , Goldstein Benjamin I. , Wang Jianli , Kennedy Sidney H. , Bray Signe , Lebel Catherine , Stowkowy Jacqueline , MacQueen Glenda
Published: January 2019

Aim

The first aim of this project was to identify a sample of youth who met different stages of risk for the development of a serious mental illness (SMI) based on a published clinical staging model. The second aim was to determine whether participants allocated to the different stages were a good fit to the model by comparing these groups on a range of clinical measures.

Methods

This two‐site longitudinal study recruited 243 youth, ages 12 to 25. The sample included (a) 42 healthy controls, (b) 43 non‐help seeking individuals with no mental illness but with some risk of SMI, such as having a first‐degree relative with a SMI (stage 0), (c) 52 help‐seeking youth experiencing distress and possibly mild symptoms of anxiety or depression (stage 1a) and (d) 108 youth with attenuated symptoms of SMI, such as bipolar disorder or psychosis (stage 1b). Participants completed a range of measures assessing depression, anxiety, mania, suicide ideation, attenuated psychotic symptoms, negative symptoms, anhedonia and beliefs about oneself.

Results

There were no clinical differences between HCs and participants in stage 0. For most of the clinical measures, participants in stage 1b had more severe ratings than participants in stages 1a and 0 and HCs; those in stage 1a had more severe ratings than HCs and stage 0 participants.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the staging process used to allocate participants to various stages is a good fit. That is, the clinical ratings followed an ordering effect consistent with that hypothesized in the staging model.
Early intervention service for first episode psychosis in Modena, Northern Italy: The first hundred cases
Authors: Ferrara Maria , Tedeschini Enrico , Baccari Flavia , Musella Vincenzo , Vacca Francesca , Mazzi Fausto , Ferri Mila , Srihari Vinod , Starace Fabrizio ,   for the Early Psychosis Working Group
Published: January 2019

Aim

To report on the development of an early intervention service in Modena, Italy, with information relevant to the first 4 years of implementation.

Methods

The 2‐year service was offered to people aged 18‐35 with psychotic manifestations, within 2 years from psychosis onset/or naïve to antipsychotics, by teams placed within community mental health Centres, according to a “specialist within generalist” model. Treatment included pharmacological consultation, psychoeducation and social inclusion programs. Health of the Nation Outcome Scale was administered at baseline and every 6 months.

Results

One hundred cases accepted the treatment from 1 March 2013 to 31 December 2016. Of these, 71% were male with a median age of 23. Ninety percent were diagnosed with non‐affective psychosis, yielding an estimated treated incidence of 19.1/105. General practitioners (GPs)represented the most frequent referrers to the program (38%), followed by referrals from acute general and psychiatric hospital units (22%) and self‐referrals (14%). Meaningful clinical improvement was observed, 6 months after enrolment.

Conclusions

An early intervention service for psychosis was successfully implemented within existing community outpatient services. GPs represented the main referrals, providing some validation of the “specialist within generalist” model of care. A promising clinical improvement and trend of reduction in duration of untreated psychosis was found, supporting the variety of early detection efforts in the community. The high median age and lack of information about pathways to care underline possible barriers to access for younger patients. These findings will inform refinement of treatments and service models for the Region.
Potential anthropogenic regime shifts in three freshwater lakes in Tropical East Asia
Authors: Bannister Wayne , McGowan Suzanne , Santos‐Borja Adelina C. , Quak Justin , Fong Letisha S. , Mendoza Milette , Papa Rey Donne Soriano , Taylor David
Published: January 2019

Regime shifts in ecology are characterised by major, often abrupt changes in ecosystem structure and functioning in response to one or more driving variables, or pressures. Changes in the provision of ecosystem services are a potential outcome. Despite the current combination of rapidly increasing pressures on what are often highly important socio‐ecological systems, the resilience of lakes in the warm tropics to human perturbation is far less well understood than those at higher latitudes. This paper focuses on evidence of aquatic ecosystem change from a cluster of three deep, freshwater, volcanic crater lakes (Yambo, Mohicap, and Sampaloc) at low altitude on the island of Luzon, Philippines. The lakes support different intensities of aquaculture, an important livelihood but also a driver of poor water quality throughout tropical Asia.

Measured and monitored climate and water quality data, in addition to sedimentary evidence from sediment cores collected from the three study lakes, were used to determine the magnitude and trajectory of changes in lake water quality. Sediment cores were radiometrically dated and analysed for organic matter, spheroidal carbonaceous particles, and diatom remains. Diatom data were zoned numerically using cluster analysis. Diatom remains were also used to infer past variations in pH and possible relationships between potential driving climatic variables (temperature and rainfall). Diatom data sets were explored using detrended component analysis and principle component analysis.

Despite differences in intensity of aquaculture, a common trajectory and timing of a potential regime shift, characterised by a replacement of benthic with planktonic diatoms and an increase in diatom accumulation rates from the early to mid‐1980s, is evident, and attests a low threshold for disturbance effects. A predominantly planktonic diatom flora has persisted even after recent improvements in environmental quality.

The potential new regime may be less resilient and more susceptible to harmful algal blooms, abrupt expansions of anoxic conditions, and periodic mass fish kills when compared with its former state. The research further highlights the sensitivity of freshwater ecosystems in the warm tropics to disturbance pressures, and the risks to livelihoods, ecosystem services, and sustainable development.
Impairment of proprioceptive movement and mechanical nociception in Drosophila melanogaster larvae lacking Ppk30, a Drosophila member of the Degenerin/Epithelial Sodium Channel family
Authors: Jang Wijeong , Lee Sojung , Choi Seung‐In , Chae Hyo‐Seok , Han Jisun , Jo Heeji , Hwang Sun W. , Park Chul‐Seung , Kim Changsoo
Published: January 2019

The mechanosensory neurons of Drosophila larvae are demonstrably activated by diverse mechanical stimuli, but the mechanisms underlying this function are not completely understood. Here we report a genetic, immunohistochemical, and electrophysiological analysis of the Ppk30 ion channel, a member of the Drosophila pickpocket (ppk) family, counterpart of the mammalian Degenerin/Epithelial Na+ Channel family. Ppk30 mutant larvae displayed deficits in proprioceptive movement and mechanical nociception, which are detected by class IV sensory (mdIV) neurons. The same neurons also detect heat nociception, which was not impaired in ppk30 mutant larvae. Similarly, Ppk30 mutation did not alter gentle touch mechanosensation, a distinct mechanosensation detected by other neurons, suggesting that Ppk30 has a functional role in mechanosensation in mdIV neurons. Consistently, Ppk30 was expressed in class IV neurons, but was not detectable in other larval skin sensory neurons. Mutant phenotypes were rescued by expressing Ppk30 in mdIV neurons. Electrophysiological analysis of heterologous cells expressing Ppk30 did not detect mechanosensitive channel activities, but did detect acid‐induced currents. These data show that Ppk30 has a role in mechanosensation, but not in thermosensation, in class IV neurons, and possibly has other functions related to acid response.
Management Practices and Productivity in Germany
Authors: Broszeit Sandra , Laible Marie-Christine , Görg Holger , Fritsch Ursula
Published: January 2019

Based on a novel dataset, the ‘German Management and Organizational Practices’ (GMOP) Survey, we calculate establishment-specific management scores following Bloom and van Reenen as indicators of management quality. We find substantial heterogeneity in management practices across establishments in Germany, with small establishments having lower scores than large establishments on average. We show a robust positive and economically important association between the management score and establishment level productivity in Germany. This association increases with establishment size. Comparison to a similar survey in the United States indicates that the average management score is lower in Germany than in the United States. Overall, our results point toward lower management quality being at least in part to blame for the differences in aggregate productivity between Germany and the United States.
The founding of the Gender, Work and Organization journal: Reflections 25 years on
Authors: Rubery Jill
Published: January 2019

This article reflects on the founding of the journal some twenty five years ago. It identifies five major themes related to gender equality that were rapidly developing at the time of the launch and demonstrates how the first two volumes of the journal contributed to these developing debates. It concludes by reflecting how recent events such as the #metoo movement have had the beneficial effect of quelling any ideas that gender equality issues have been solved and argues that the GWO journal is well placed to build on this renewed interest to take these debates forward into the next twenty five years.
Vertically Integrated Hydraulic Conductivity: A New Parameter for Groundwater‐Surface Water Analysis
Authors: Glose Thomas J. , Lowry Christopher S. , Hausner Mark B.
Published: January 2019

Numerical modeling of groundwater‐surface water interactions provides vital information necessary for determining the extent of nutrient transport, quantifying water budgets, and delineating zones of ecological support. The hydrologic data that drive these models are often collected at disparate scales and subsequently incorporated into numerical models through upscaling techniques such as piecewise constancy or geostatistical methods. However, these techniques either use basic interpolation methods, which often simplifies the system of interest, or utilize complex statistical methods that are computationally expensive, time consuming, and generate complex subsurface configurations. We propose a bulk parameter termed “vertically integrated hydraulic conductivity” (KV), and defined as the depth‐integrated resistance to fluid flow sensed at the groundwater‐surface water interface, as an alternative to hydraulic conductivity when investigating vertical fluxes across the groundwater‐surface water interface. This bulk parameter replaces complex subsurface configurations in situations dominated by vertical fluxes and where heterogeneity is not of primary importance. To demonstrate the utility of KV, we extracted synthetic temperature time series data from a forward numerical model under a variety of scenarios and used those data to quantify vertical fluxes using the amplitude ratio method. These quantified vertical fluxes and the applied hydraulic head gradient were subsequently input into Darcy's Law and used to quantify KV. This KV was then directly compared to the equivalent hydraulic conductivity (KT) assuming an infinitely extending layer. Vertically integrated hydraulic conductivity allows for more accurate and robust flow modeling across the groundwater‐surface water interface in instances where complex heterogeneities are not of primary concern.
Transcranial Magnetic and Direct Current Stimulation (TMS/tDCS) for the Treatment of Headache: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stilling Joan M. , Monchi Oury , Amoozegar Farnaz , Debert Chantel T.
Published: January 2019

Background

Headache is among the most prevalent causes of disability worldwide. Non‐pharmacologic interventions, including neuromodulation therapies, have been proposed in patients who are treatment resistant or intolerant to medications.

Objective

To perform a systematic review on the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for the treatment of specific headache disorders (ie, migraine, tension, cluster, posttraumatic).

Methods

Data sources: Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO. Data extraction: All references were reviewed by 2 independent researchers (3039 abstracts, duplicates removed). Records were selected by inclusion criteria for participants (adults 18‐65 with primary or secondary headaches), interventions (TMS and tDCS applied as headache treatment), comparators (sham or alternative standard of care), and study type (cohort, case‐control, and randomized controlled trials [RCT]). Studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and overall quality determined through the GRADE Tool. A structured synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity of participants and methods.

Results

Thirty‐four studies were included: 16 rTMS, 6 TMS (excluding rTMS), and 12 tDCS. The majority investigated treatment for migraine (19/22 TMS, 8/12 tDCS). Quality of evidence ranged from very low to high.

Conclusion

Of all TMS and tDCS modalities, rTMS is most promising with moderate evidence that it contributes to reductions in headache frequency, duration, intensity, abortive medication use, depression, and functional impairment. However, only few studies reported changes greater than sham treatment. Further high‐quality RCTs with standardized protocols are required for each specific headache disorder to validate a treatment effect. Registration Number: PROSPERO 2017 CRD42017076232.
The risk ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection for adverse pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhan Yongle , Si Mingyu , Li Mingshuang , Jiang Yu
Published: January 2019

Objective

To estimate the current evidence regarding the association betweenHelicobacter pyloriinfection during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search for relevant publications was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of science databases through November 17th, 2018. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were selected as the effect size. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed.

Results

Thirty‐one studies with a total of 22 845 participants were identified. There was significant association ofH pyloriinfection with preeclampsia (OR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.88‐3.34;P < 0.001), fetal growth restriction (OR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.21‐4.32;P = 0.01), gestational diabetes mellitus (OR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.56‐2.64;P < 0.001), spontaneous abortion (OR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.05‐2.14;P = 0.024), and birth defect (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.05‐2.54;P = 0.03). Sensitivity analysis showed the significant association betweenH pyloriinfection and low birthweight (OR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.05‐2.40;P = 0.03).

Conclusion

The present meta‐analysis offers proof to support thatH pyloriinfection during pregnancy can increase the risk on adverse pregnancy outcomes. Screening and treating forH pyloriinfection before pregnancy should be taken into account.
Dense CIGS films obtained by blending submicron‐sized particles with nanoparticle suspensions using a non‐vacuum process
Authors: Lai Hsin‐Yu , Hsiang Hsing‐I
Published: January 2019

The difficulty in densification easily occur in CIGS thin film absorber fabrication using the non‐vacuum process. A novel process is developed in this study to achieve dense, crack‐free and large‐grained CIGS films by blending submicron‐sized particles with nanoparticle suspensions. The addition of slow‐sintering submicron‐sized particles to the nanoparticle suspensions effectively inhibits crack generation and small grain development in the film microstructure. The submicron‐sized particles addition to nanoparticle suspension effect on the microstructure and electrical properties are investigated using scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, UV‐Vis‐NIR, Raman spectroscopy and Hall‐effect analyzer. A homogeneous dense microstructure with a large grain size and good electric properties can be obtained as the submicron‐sized particles ratio to nanoparticles approaches 3:7.
Conceiving, designing and trailing a short‐form measure of job quality: a proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Felstead Alan , Gallie Duncan , Green Francis , Henseke Golo
Published: January 2019

The government has accepted the Taylor Review's recommendation that it should report annually on job quality in the UK. This article argues that three principles need to be followed in choosing the right measures and shows how these principles have been used to create a short job quality quiz (www.howgoodismyjob.com).
Does shared group identification lead to group creativity? Group regulatory focus as a moderator
Authors: Lee Eun‐Suk , Park Tae‐Youn , Paik Yonjeong
Published: January 2019

Regarding the effect of identification on creativity in groups, two theoretical views compete. One view emphasizing group‐welfare motives underlying identification proposes a positive identification–creativity relationship in groups because members sharing high group identification are motivated to engage in behaviors that they believe are optimal for their group, including those that depart from the group's status quo, thus resulting in enhanced group creativity. The other view highlighting affiliative motives underlying identification, in contrast, posits a negative identification–creativity relationship in groups because highly identified members are motivated to engage in behaviors that certify their belongingness in the group, that is, behaviors that conform to the existing group norms and status quo, which constrains the group's potential for creativity. This study aims to reconcile these competing perspectives by invoking regulatory focus theory. Drawing on the notion that group identification effects rely on the content of group identity that the identification is based on, the authors suggest that group regulatory focus, as a critical group identity content, moderates the identification–creativity relationship in groups; the relationship is positive when the group's regulatory focus is highly promotion‐oriented, whereas it is negative when the group's regulatory focus is highly prevention‐oriented. Analyzing data from 65 workgroups in a cosmetics company in Korea, the authors show evidence that the identification–creativity relationship is positive in groups with a high promotion focus. The prediction regarding the prevention–focus moderation effect is not supported. The implications of the findings for both theory and practice are discussed.
Knockdown of Golgi phosphoprotein 73 blocks the trafficking of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and inhibits cell invasion
Authors: Liu Yiming , Zhang Xiaodi , Zhou Sining , Shi Jieyao , Xu Yun , He Jia , Lin Feng , Wei Anbang , Zhou Linfu , Chen Zhi
Published: January 2019

Golgi phosphoprotein 73 (GP73) has been regarded as a novel serum biomarker for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in recent years. It has been reported that the upregulation of GP73 may promote the carcinogenesis and metastasis of HCC; however, the mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, GP73 correlates positively with matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) in HCC‐related cells and tissues. Further studies indicate that the knockdown of GP73 blocks MMP‐2 trafficking and secretion, resulting in cell invasion inhibition. Additionally, the knockdown of GP73 induces the accumulation of intracellular MMP‐2, which inhibits the phosphorylation of Src at Y416 and triggers the inhibition of SAPK/JNK and p53‐p21 signalling pathways through a negative feedback loop. Finally, the transactivation of MMP2 was inhibited by the reduction in E2F1. This study reveals that GP73 plays functional roles in the trafficking and equilibrium of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐related secretory proteins and that GP73 serves as a new potential target for combating the metastasis of HCC.
GATA5 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma cells malignant behaviours by blocking expression of reprogramming genes
Authors: Feng Haipeng , Zhu Mingyue , Zhang Ruizhu , Wang Qiaoyun , Li Wei , Dong Xu , Chen Yi , Lu Yan , Liu Kun , Lin Bo , Guo Junli , Li Mengsen
Published: January 2019

Evidence indicated that GATA5 may suppress hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell malignant transformation, but the mechanism of how GATA5 affects cancer cell reprogramming to inhibit HCC malignant behaviour is still unclear. In this study, we report that the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes p‐Oct4, Nanog, Klf4, c‐myc and EpCAM was significantly higher in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues. In contrast, the expression of GATA5 was significantly lower in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues. Transfection of CDH‐GATA5 vectors into HCC cells (HLE, Bel 7402 and PLC/PRF/5 cells) increased the GATA5 expression and decreased the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes p‐Oct4, Nanog, Klf4, c‐myc and EpCAM. Increased GATA5 expression by transfection with its expression vectors was also able to inhibit the cell growth, colony formation and capability of migration, invasion, while promoting apoptosis in HCC cells. Results revealed that GATA5 co‐localization with β‐catenin in the cytoplasm, preventing β‐catenin from entering the nucleus. Treatment with the specific Wnt/β‐catenin pathway inhibitor salinomycin was able to reduce the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes. Salinomycin exerted a similar influence as GATA5, and siRNA‐GATA5 restored β‐catenin and reprogramming gene expression. This study demonstrates that an increase in the expression of GATA5 inhibits the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes and suppresses tumour growth, colony formation, metastasis and invasion, while promoting apoptosis in HCC cells. The mechanism of GATA5 inhibiting the malignant behaviours of HCC cells may involve in the disruption of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and the reduction of reprogramming gene expression.
Variability of key biological parameters of round sardinella Sardinella aurita and the effects of environmental changes
Authors: Baldé Bocar S. , Sow Fambaye N. , Ba Kamarel , Ekau Werner , Brehmer Patrice , Kantoussan Justin , Fall Massal , Diouf Malick
Published: January 2019

We examined growth rates and reproductive characteristics of Sardinella aurita off Senegal and other coastal areas over a 20 year period (1995–2014) to determine how they relate to variations in environmental characteristics of coastal waters. Based on fish length‐frequency data and a coastal upwelling index, we found that S. aurita recruitment tends to occur during the periods of most intensive upwelling (March–April off Senegal). Peak reproduction corresponds to periods of low sea‐surface temperature (in February or March). The sex ratio was remarkably consistent during the 30 year study period and so was not affected by environmental changes. We hypothesise that S. aurita takes advantage of the higher zooplankton productivity that occurs in coastal waters when upwelling brings nutrient‐rich water to the surface (i.e., it increases its growth rate and accumulates energy reserves for spawning). Growth performance appears to be strongly dependent on environmental conditions. The timing of spawning seems to occur when food (zooplankton) is most available for supplying the energy requirements needed by adults for spawning and early development of larvae. Environmental changes seem to have a significant effect on S. aurita growth and reproduction, which endorses their high phenotypic plasticity.
Reproductive success of a marine teleost was correlated with proactive and reactive stress‐coping styles
Authors: Ibarra‐Zatarain Zohar , Parati Katia , Cenadelli Silvia , Duncan Neil
Published: January 2019

The present study investigated the relationship between reproductive success and stress‐coping styles in gilthead seabream Sparus aurata in captivity. To characterise stress‐coping styles, a total of 22 breeders were submitted to three different individual‐based tests, one group‐based test and post‐handling glucocorticoid quantification. To assess spawning participation, a microsatellite analysis was performed on a total of 2698 larvae, which allowed each offspring to be assigned unambiguously to a single parental couple. Overall, S. aurata showed defined proactive and reactive behavioural traits. Proactive breeders exhibited higher levels of activity and risk taking and lower glucocorticoid blood levels than reactive breeders. The stress‐coping style traits were consistent over time and context (different tests). Breeders that contributed to a higher number of progeny exhibited proactive behaviours, while those showing low progeny contribution exhibited reactive behaviour. Therefore, breeders with a high proportion of progeny (> 20%) had significantly higher activity and risk taking and lower cortisol than breeders with low progeny contribution (< 20%). In addition, males were more proactive than females and males exhibited significantly higher activity, risk taking and lower cortisol than females. This study is the first to establish in S. aurata breeders: (a) a relationship between stress‐coping styles and spawning success; (b) a relationship between stress‐coping styles and gender; and (c) the existence of proactive and reactive traits at the adult stage.
Guidelines for office gynecology in Japan: Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) and Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (JAOG) 2017 edition
Authors: Kawaguchi Ryuji , Matsumoto Koji , Akira Shigeo , Ishitani Ken , Iwasaku Kazuhiro , Ueda Yutaka , Okagaki Ryugo , Okano Hiroya , Oki Toshimichi , Koga Kaori , Kido Michiko , Kurabayashi Takumi , Kuribayashi Yasushi , Sato Yuichi , Shiina Kaori , Takai Yasushi , Tanimura Satoshi , Chaki Osamu , Terauchi Masakazu , Todo Yukiharu , Noguchi Yasuyuki , Nose‐Ogura Sayaka , Baba Tsukasa , Hirasawa Akira , Fujii Takuma , Fujii Tsuneo , Maruyama Tetsuo , Miyagi Etsuko , Yanagida Kaoru , Yoshino Osamu , Iwashita Mitsutoshi , Maeda Tsugio , Minegishi Takashi , Kobayashi Hiroshi
Published: January 2019

Six years after the first edition of The Guideline for Gynecological Practice, which was jointly edited by The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and The Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the third revised edition was published in 2017. The 2017 Guidelines includes 10 additional clinical questions (CQ), which brings the total to 95 CQ (12 on infectious disease, 28 on oncology and benign tumors, 27 on endocrinology and infertility and 28 on healthcare for women). Currently a consensus has been reached on the Guidelines and therefore the objective of this report is to present the general policies regarding diagnostic and treatment methods used in standard gynecological outpatient care that are considered appropriate. At the end of each answer, the corresponding recommendation level (A, B, C) is indicated.
Adverse symptoms during short‐term use of ulipristal acetate in women with uterine myomas and/or adenomyosis
Authors: Hong Yeon Hee , Han Soo Jin , Lee Dayong , Kim Seul Ki , Jee Byung Chul
Published: January 2019

Aim

To evaluate various adverse symptoms during short‐term use of ulipristal acetate in women with uterine myomas (n = 90), adenomyosis (n = 3) or both (n = 7).

Methods

One hundred premenopausal women who received ulipristal acetate for 4–12 weeks during 2016 to 2017 were selected. The medical records were reviewed and the following information was collected; adverse symptoms during medication, presence of menorrhagia or menstrual cramps, blood hemoglobin and liver function test. Adverse symptoms were recorded in the medical records as a checklist form including 76 specific progestin‐related symptoms.

Results

Overall, the most frequent adverse symptom was amenorrhea (43%), followed by weight gain (29%), fatigue (27%), abdominal discomfort (21%), decreased menstrual flow (19%) and dizziness (18%). In 89 symptomatic women (with heavy menstrual bleeding and/or menstrual cramping pain and/or anemia), the most frequent adverse symptom was weight gain (27%) and fatigue (27%), followed by abdominal discomfort (21%), dry eye (18%), facial flushing (17%), dizziness (17%), headache (17%) and increased vaginal discharge (15%). Fourteen women stopped the medication due to unwanted adverse symptoms. Of this discontinuation group, major complaint was fatigue (50%), followed by weight gain (36%) and breast discomfort (35.7%).

Conclusion

Adverse symptoms were common and discontinuation rate was somewhat higher during short‐term course of ulipristal acetate. Information about incidence of various adverse symptoms should be given to women who willing to take ulipristal acetate.
Sensory product characterization by consumers using check‐all‐that‐apply questions: Investigations linked to term development using kiwifruit as a case study
Authors: Jaeger Sara R. , Hunter Denise C. , Vidal Leticia , Chheang Sok L. , Ares Gastón , Harker F. Roger
Published: January 2019

Sensory product characterization is a cornerstone activity in sensory science, and increasingly it is performed by consumers. Check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) questions are popular for this purpose, and solid guidelines for many aspects of their implementation exist. However, they do not extend to term development. The present research is situated in this gap, and across 11 consumer studies (n = 1,455) the influence of term variations (e.g., “acid” or “acidic”) and CATA list composition was explored. The description of samples and their discrimination was affected by both factors, but particularly the former. The need for terms to be readily understood and related to the vocabulary consumers commonly used for describing the test products was supported. There was some evidence supporting consumers' ability to use specific sensory descriptors, but also instances showing the opposite. Composite terms (e.g., “tangy/sour”) showed potential for providing contextualizing information regarding the focal sensory characteristic, but they were not always beneficial. CATA terms of particular relevance for consumers' sensory perception of kiwifruit were identified, to the benefit of new cultivar development efforts.

Practical applications

Check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) questions have become popular for sensory product characterization by consumers. However, better guidance on how to develop CATA terms is needed. This research, using kiwifruit as a case study, demonstrates that the wording of terms matters greatly for consumers' ability to characterize and discriminate between samples. The general guideline to practitioners is to include consumer‐friendly terms that intuitively relate to the focal product category. Terms used by trained assessors may not be applicable to consumers due to specificity, low applicability or apparent incongruence with the product category. Sample characterization and differentiation can also depend on the collective set of terms used in a CATA question.