bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age at menarche and risk of vasomotor menopausal symptoms: a pooled analysis of six studies
Authors: Chung H‐F , Zhu D , Dobson AJ , Kuh D , Gold EB , Crawford SL , Avis NE , Mitchell ES , Woods NF , Anderson DJ , Mishra GD
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine the association between age at menarche and risk of vasomotor menopausal symptoms (VMS) and whether midlife body mass index (BMI) modified the association.

Design

A pooled analysis of six cohort studies.

Setting

The International collaboration on the Life course Approach to reproductive health and Chronic disease Events (InterLACE).

Population

18 555 women from the UK, USA and Australia.

Methods

VMS frequency data (never, rarely, sometimes and often) were harmonised from two studies (n = 13 602); severity data (never, mild, moderate and severe) from the other four studies (n = 4953). Multinominal logistic regression models were used to estimate relative risk ratios (RRRs) and 95% CIs adjusted for confounders and incorporated study as random effects.

Main outcome measures

Hot flushes and night sweats.

Results

Frequency data showed that early menarche ≤11 years was associated with an increased risk of ‘often’ hot flushes (RRR 1.48, 95% CI 1.24–1.76) and night sweats (RRR 1.59, 95% CI 1.49–1.70) compared with menarche at ≥14 years. Severity data showed similar results, but appeared less conclusive, with RRRs of 1.16 (95% CI 0.94–1.42) and 1.27 (95% CI 1.01–1.58) for ‘severe’ hot flushes and night sweats, respectively. BMI significantly modified the association as the risk associated with early menarche and ‘often’ VMS was stronger among women who were overweight or obese than those of normal weight, while this gradient across BMI categories was not as strong with the risk of ‘severe’ VMS.

Conclusions

Early age at menarche is a risk factor for VMS, particularly for frequent VMS, but midlife BMI may play an important role in modifying this risk.

Tweetable abstract

Overweight and obesity exacerbate the risk of vasomotor symptoms associated with early menarche.
Forest resources and household welfare: Empirical evidence from North Central Vietnam
Authors: Van Hoang Cuong , Tran Tuyen Quang , Nguyen Yen Hai Thi , Nguyen Lan Thanh
Published: July 2020

Using secondary data from a socio‐economic quantitative household survey of the North Central region of Vietnam, the main aim of our study is to analyze the causal effect of forest resources on household income and poverty. Based on the observed characteristics of a forest‐based livelihood and forest‐related activities, we use a propensity score matching (PSM) method to control for potential bias arising from self‐selection. The PSM results indicate that households with a forest‐based livelihood had a higher level of income and lower poverty rates than did those without. Interestingly, our findings confirm that a forest‐based livelihood offers much higher income than any other type of livelihood adopted by local households. Also, the poverty rate among households with a forest‐based livelihood is lower than those earning non‐labor income or engaged in wage/crop and crop livelihoods. Among households and provinces, we find varying opportunities deriving from forest resources, suggesting that there are potential barriers hindering local households from pursuing a forest livelihood or participating in some forest activities. Therefore, government policy and regulations on forest management should focus on improving the access of households to forest resources, while enhancing the sustainability of these resources.
Intervention with the crude polysaccharides of Physalis pubescens L. mitigates colitis by preventing oxidative damage, aberrant immune responses, and dysbacteriosis
Authors: Zhao Xiuli , Liu Hengchao , Wu Yajing , Hu Nan , Lei Ming , Zhang Yan , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2020

In this study, a colitis mouse model induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was used to investigate the mechanisms of action of an extract of crude polysaccharides (POL) from Physalis pubescens L. as a dietary intervention for colitis. Our results showed that the administration of POL prior to DSS‐induced colitis protected the colon mucosal layer; maintained intestinal barrier integrity; alleviated oxidative damage; and lowered neutrophil infiltration by downregulating intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 expression. More importantly, POL pretreatment reduced the expression of the proinflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor‐α, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), thereby modulating the nuclear factor‐κB/iNOS–COX‐2 signal transduction pathway. In addition, POL reversed DSS‐induced gut dysbiosis, accompanied by reducing the relative abundance of Helicobacter, Mucispirillum, and Erysipelatoclostridium. In conclusion, POL ameliorated DSS‐induced intestinal injury in mice, indicating that POL could be a useful dietary nutrient to protect against colitis.

Practical Application

Physalis pubescens L. is an edible fruit. The results of this study show that the intervention with Physalis pubescens L. crude polysaccharides may help prevent ulcerative colitis.
Reorienting the Economy to the Rhythms of Nature: Learning to Live with Intermittent Energy Supply
Authors: De Decker Kris
Published: July 2020

In much current thinking about the necessary and rapid transition to a carbon‐emissions‐free energy system, there is implicit acceptance of the high‐tech, high‐energy nature of the current economy. But by asking deeper questions about this economy, we reveal new opportunities as well as new challenges. First, throughout most of history, both production and consumption were dramatically influenced by the weather, and activities were undertaken or curtailed according to varying availability of energy. In the future, if we again adjust energy demand to such intermittent supplies wherever and whenever possible, we can nevertheless benefit from many scientific and technological advantages that our ancestors did not have centuries ago. Second, in the pursuit of highly energy‐efficient machines that might become new sources of highly concentrated energy, we have begun to rely on “clean energy” machinery made in significant part from non‐recyclable materials. With our current generation of wind turbines, for example, we have sacrificed sustainability in the pursuit of a supposedly renewable‐energy system. By contrast, if we reduce our need for always‐on energy sources by adjusting energy demand to intermittent energy supply, we can greatly reduce the overall energy infrastructure needed, and we will face less pressure to sacrifice sustainability.
Differing Visions of Agriculture: Industrial‐Chemical vs. Small Farm and Urban Organic Production
Authors: Gray Heather , Nuri K. Rashid
Published: July 2020

Seed diversity and soil preservation are the foundations of healthy agriculture. Over many generations, farmers have developed varieties of wheat, rice, corn, and other crops that are adapted to local growing conditions. Industrial‐chemical agriculture has abandoned that local knowledge, replacing seed diversity with genetically uniform crops that require large doses of fertilizers and chemical poisons to survive. One way the United States exerted control over Iraq, starting in 2003, was to enable agribusiness to disrupt thousands of years of tradition by imposing industrial methods on the country where evidence of the earliest mass production of food was discovered. Thus, it seems that conquest of people goes hand in hand with conquest of soil. There is resistance to agribusiness around the world. In the United States, small farms and urban agriculture are not only providing healthy food but also reconnecting people who grow up in cities with the life of the soil.
Solar Commons: A “Commons Option” for the 21stCentury
Authors: Milun Kathryn
Published: July 2020

Private ownership of nature’s gifts—water, air, sunlight—stands in the way of solving the collective problems of the 21stcentury. In the case of sunlight, common ownership through community solar trusts can overcome both the inequities and the inefficiencies of investor‐owned utilities (IOUs) with legal monopolies. Those monopolies function with the same arrogance as aristocrats did in the past, but now the stakes are higher: the future of the planet. This essay describes the Solar Commons Project by which a team of inspired citizens and public scholars joined to create a form of community‐trust solar‐energy ownership, in which multiple stakeholders benefit. The goal is to make this “Solar Commons” model an iterable, scalable, model of community solar that empowers low‐income neighborhoods in the United States. An integral part of the project is a process of creating community‐engaged public art to communicate the nature of community ownership. Artistic and theatrical presentations can help involve the public in dialogues around questions of utility management that are normally couched in technical language designed to obfuscate the political power of electric utilities. One role citizens can play is unmasking utilities when they publicly promote themselves as providers of clean energy, even when they are actively engaged in protecting the interests of fossil‐fuel companies. Ultimately, however, creating a Solar Commons involves more than criticizing the failed institutions of the past. It requires us to think innovatively about ways to draw upon the history of the commons to design new modes of sharing sunlight and other common goods to create a more equitable, sustainable future.
IL6, IL8, and IL10 in the distinction of malignant ovarian neoplasms and endometriomas
Authors: Crispim Paula Carolina Arvelos , Jammal Millena Prata , Antão Priscylla Kelliny Aparecida , Micheli Douglas Côbo , Tavares‐Murta Beatriz Martins , Murta Eddie Fernando Candido , Nomelini Rosekeila Simões
Published: July 2020

Problem

Studies have shown a relationship between endometriosis and ovarian cancer. Our aims were to evaluate and compare the dosages of cytokines IL‐2, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, and TNF‐α in serum, intracystic fluid, and peritoneal fluid of patients with ovarian endometrioma, malignant and benign ovarian neoplasms, and non‐neoplastic ovarian tumors; to verify if there is a correlation between the values of these cytokines between ovarian endometrioma and ovarian malignancy; and to determine the best cut‐off point for serum cytokines that can be used to differentiate patients with ovarian malignancy and endometrioma.

Method of study

The concentrations of cytokines were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), analyzed by Kruskal‐Wallis test with the Dunn post‐test. Receiver operating feature (ROC) curve was used to obtain the area under the curve (AUC) and to determine the best cut‐off values that could be used in the diagnosis of ovarian malignancy. Correlations of cytokine concentrations were performed by the Spearman test.

Results

IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐10 concentrations were higher in patients with malignant neoplasia. When evaluating the area under the curve (AUC) of serum cytokine levels comparing patients with malignant neoplasia and endometriomas, there was statistical significance for IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐10.

Conclusion

Our results showed utility in serum concentrations of IL‐6, IL‐10, and IL‐8 as parameters that differentiate endometriomas from ovarian malignancies.
Brecciation of glacially overridden palaeokarst (Lower Aare Valley, northern Switzerland): result of subglacial water‐pressure peaks?
Authors: Gegg Lukas , Buechi Marius W. , Ebert Andreas , Deplazes Gaudenz , Madritsch Herfried , Anselmetti Flavio S.
Published: July 2020

Water pressures at the base of active glacial overdeepenings are known to fluctuate strongly on various time scales. Rapid peaks in basal water pressure can lead to fracturing of the glacier bed, a process that has been described at numerous sites around the world, mostly based on large hydrofracture systems. This article presents drill‐cores from the base of a >100‐m‐deep glacial overdeepening in the Lower Aare Valley in northern Switzerland that were investigated with high‐resolution imaging (including X‐ray computed tomography) as well as compositional and microstructural analyses. The drill‐cores recovered Jurassic limestones hosting palaeokarst voids infilled with blue clay. We identify this clay, based on its kaolinitic composition, as siderolithic Bolus Clay but in a rather atypical variety formed under reducing conditions. The surfaces of the palaeokarst walls show smoothly undulating as well as brecciated sections with form‐fit interlocking clasts, which are the result of an in situ brecciation process. We argue that these particular fractures are not related to (glacio‐)tectonics or frost action. Instead, we suggest an explanation by involving water‐pressure peaks that were transmitted to the void walls by the clayey karst filling, resulting in hydrofracturing. In addition to pervasive karstification and tectonic overprinting, this water pressure‐driven fracturing may have enhanced the deep incision of the overdeepening into the rheologically competent bedrock.
2‐Hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin reduces retinal cholesterol in wild‐type and Cyp27a1−/−Cyp46a1−/− mice with deficiency in the oxysterol production
Authors: El‐Darzi Nicole , Mast Natalia , Petrov Alexey M. , Pikuleva Irina A.
Published: July 2020

Background and Purpose

2‐Hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HPCD) is an FDA approved vehicle for drug delivery and an efficient cholesterol‐lowering agent. HPCD was proposed to lower tissue cholesterol via multiple mechanisms including those mediated by oxysterols. CYP27A1 and CYP46A1 are the major oxysterol‐producing enzymes in the retina that convert cholesterol to 27‐ and 24‐hydroxycholesterol, respectively. We investigated whether HPCD treatments affected the retina of wild‐type and Cyp27a1−/−Cyp46a1−/− mice that do not produce the major retinal oxysterols.

Experimental Approach

HPCD administration was either by i.p., p.o. or s.c. Delivery to the retina was confirmed by angiography using the fluorescently labelled HPCD. Effects on the levels of retinal sterols, mRNA and proteins were evaluated by GC–MS, qRT‐PCR and label‐free approach, respectively.

Key Results

In both wild‐type and Cyp27a1−/−Cyp46a1−/− mice, HPCD crossed the blood–retinal barrier when delivered i.p. and lowered the retinal cholesterol content when administered p.o. and s.c. In both genotypes, oral HPCD treatment affected the expression of cholesterol‐related genes as well as the proteins involved in endocytosis, lysosomal function and lipid homeostasis. Mechanistically, liver X receptors and the altered expression of Lipe (hormone‐sensitive lipase), Nceh1 (neutral cholesterol ester hydrolase 1) and NLTP (non‐specific lipid‐transfer protein) could mediate some of the HPCD effects.

Conclusions and Implications

HPCD treatment altered retinal cholesterol homeostasis and is a potential therapeutic approach for the reduction of drusen and subretinal drusenoid deposits, cholesterol‐rich lesions and hallmarks of age‐related macular degeneration.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Oxysterols, Lifelong Health and Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.16/issuetoc
IQ predictors in pediatric opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome: a large international cohort study
Authors: Sheridan Andrew , Kapur Kush , Pinard Ferne , Dietrich Alber Fabienne , Camposano Susana , Pike Mike G , Klein Andrea , Gorman Mark P
Published: July 2020

Aim

To determine predictors of full‐scale IQ (FSIQ) in an international pediatric opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome (OMS) cohort.

Method

In this retrospective and prospective cohort study at three academic medical centers (2006–2013), the primary outcome measure, FSIQ, was categorized based on z‐score: above average (≥+1), average (+1 to –1), mildly impaired (–1 to –2), and impaired (<–2). Univariate analysis and multivariable linear regression modeling using stepwise selection with Akaike’s information criterion was performed to understand the relationship between exposures and FSIQ.

Results

Of 81 participants, 37 with sufficient data had mean FSIQ 84.38 (SD 20.55) and median 90 (40–114) at latest available evaluation (mean age 8y 5mo). Twenty (54%), nine (24.3%), and eight (21.6%) had normal, mildly impaired, and impaired FSIQ respectively. The final multivariable linear regression model included 34 participants with evaluable data: number of relapses occurring before neuropsychological testing (p<0.001) and OMS severity score at last follow‐up (p<0.001) predicted FSIQ (adjusted R2=0.64). There was a mean decrease of 2.4 FSIQ points per OMS relapse.

Interpretation

Number of relapses negatively correlates with FSIQ in pediatric OMS. Demographic and clinical measures available at OMS onset did not predict FSIQ. Strategies to reduce OMS relapses may improve intellectual outcomes.
Gastrostomy tube insertion in children with developmental or acquired disorders: a register‐based study
Authors: Backman Ellen , Sjögreen Lotta
Published: July 2020

Aim

To describe trends in gastrostomy tube insertion in children with developmental or acquired disorders in Sweden and assess their demographic characteristics.

Method

Children aged 0 to 18 years with gastrostomy tube insertions recorded between 1998 and 2014 were identified in the Swedish National Patient Register. Associations between disorder type and year of surgery, as well as age at surgery, were analysed using linear regression analyses. The association between disorder type and mortality 2 years from gastrostomy tube insertion was also analysed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The data for 4112 children (2182 males, 1930 females), with a median age of 2 years (interquartile range=1–8y), were analysed. Children who presented with developmental disorders were the largest group (n=3501, 85%). The most common diagnosis in children with developmental disorders was cerebral palsy (n=165, 4%). In children with acquired disorders, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (n=117, 3%) was the most common diagnosis. Gastrostomy tube insertions increased from 1998 to 2014, with the greatest increase in children with developmental disorders, who were younger than children with acquired disorders when the gastrostomy tube was first inserted. Age at tube insertion decreased in both groups during the study period. Mortality was higher in children with acquired disorders, suggesting that gastrostomy tube insertion should be part of a palliative care approach.

Interpretation

Child characteristics differed depending on whether the underlying disorder was developmental or acquired, suggesting a need for clinical health care guidelines related to the specific goals of gastrostomy tube insertion.

What this paper adds

Gastrostomy tube insertions increased by 140% from 1998 to 2014 in Sweden.

The age of children with developmental disorders decreased by 1 month per year during the study period.

Children presenting with developmental disorders were younger than children with acquired disorders when the gastrostomy tube was first inserted.

Mortality was higher in children with acquired disorders.
Looking for indicative magnetic resonance imaging signs of hippocampal developmental abnormalities in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and healthy controls
Authors: Labate Angelo , Sammarra Ilaria , Trimboli Michele , Caligiuri Maria Eugenia , Gambardella Antonio
Published: July 2020

Objective

To evaluate the frequency of qualitative features for hippocampal developmental abnormalities (HiDeA) definition on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) patients and healthy controls, highlighting which were more sensitive and specific to the epileptic syndrome.

Methods

We enrolled 93 healthy controls and 187 MTLE patients. Among patients, 133 were MRI‐negative and 54 had hippocampal sclerosis (HS). Two blinded, trained investigators defined HiDeA if three signs were present, including at least one of the following: (1) globular hippocampal shape (HCS), (2) verticalized collateral sulcus, and (3) medial positioning of hippocampus (HCP). After evaluating the prevalence of HiDeA in MTLE and controls, we assessed the frequency of each sign. Then, we classified differences in type or number of HiDeA diagnostic features, calculating their sensitivity and specificity. Fisher exact test was used to assess statistical significance.

Results

HiDeA was detected in 36 of 187 MTLE cases (19.25%) and in eight of 93 (8.6%) controls. In particular, HiDeA was present in 25 of 133 (18.8%) patients with MRI‐negative MTLE. Among all visual criteria here considered, HCS showed higher sensitivity both in the MRI‐negative MTLE group (88%) and in the HS‐MTLE group (91%). HCP, thickened subiculum, and reduction of the upper horizontal portion of the parahippocampal gyrus (HCTH) signs demonstrated a 100% specificity in both groups. In healthy controls, HCS was confirmed to have the highest sensitivity (100%), whereas HCP showed the highest specificity (98.8%). All these criteria were statistically associated with HiDeA. Electroencephalographic focus was concordant with the HiDeA side in 52.2% of MTLE patients. An association was not found among signs of HiDeA and treatment responsiveness.

Significance

We identified characteristic signs of HiDeA, such as HCTH or HCP, differentiating HiDeA features between MTLE and healthy controls. The identification of sensitive and, more importantly, specific criteria of HiDeA could be helpful to make a more confident visual diagnosis.
A pragmatic algorithm to select appropriate antiseizure medications in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Asadi‐Pooya Ali A. , Beniczky Sándor , Rubboli Guido , Sperling Michael R. , Rampp Stefan , Perucca Emilio
Published: July 2020

Objective

Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the first‐line treatment for epilepsy. Many ASMs are available; this offers the opportunity to improve therapy by tailoring it to individual characteristics, but also increases the possibility of healthcare professionals making inappropriate treatment choices. To assist healthcare professionals, we developed a pragmatic algorithm aimed at facilitating medication selection for individuals whose epilepsy begins at age 10 years and older.

Methods

Utilizing available evidence and a Delphi panel−based consensus process, a group of epilepsy experts developed an algorithm for selection of ASMs, depending on the seizure type(s) and the presence of relevant clinical variables (age, gender, comorbidities, and comedications). The algorithm was implemented into a web‐based application that was tested and improved in an iterative process.

Results

The algorithm categorizes ASMs deemed to be appropriate for each seizure type or combination of seizure types into three groups, with group 1 ASMs considered preferred, group 2 considered second line, and group 3 considered third line. Depending on the presence of relevant clinical variables, the ranking of individual ASMs is adjusted in the prioritization scheme to tailor recommendations to the characteristics of the individual. The algorithm is available on a web‐based application at: https://epipick.org/#/.

Significance

The proposed algorithm is user‐friendly, requires less than 2 minutes to complete, and provides the user with a range of appropriate treatment options from which to choose. This should facilitate its broad utilization and contribute to improve epilepsy management for healthcare providers who desire advice, particularly those who lack special expertise in the field.
Bridging the gap in epilepsy care: A single‐center experience of 3700 outpatient tele‐epilepsy visits
Authors: Fesler Jessica R. , Stanton Susan , Merner Kim , Ross Lindsay , McGinley Marisa P. , Bena James , Rasmussen Peter , Najm Imad , Punia Vineet
Published: July 2020

We describe the largest‐to‐date single‐center implementation of tele‐epilepsy. Beginning in 2017, all patients at a single tertiary care academic epilepsy center were offered the option to complete outpatient follow‐up visits via video‐conferencing using personal devices. A retrospective review of all patients who self‐selected virtual visits over nearly 3 years showed 2140 patients completed 3698 tele‐epilepsy visits, with 41% completing more than one visit during the study period. Based on the distance from the center to the home address, 26.7% of patients were local (≤50 miles), 30.5% were near regional (51‐150 miles), 20.1% were far regional (151‐270 miles), and 22.7% were remote (>270 miles), from 43 different states. An estimated 928 696 miles of travel was prevented, with a median travel distance saved of 124.5 miles (interquartile range = 45.0‐253.0). The mean visit time was 15.7 (±10.4) minutes. More than 90% of patients gave the visit and provider experience the maximum rating, with a nearly 60% response rate on the post‐visit survey. Virtual outpatient follow‐up care provides a convenient way to connect with epilepsy specialists and reduce the burden of care by cutting travel time. Our experience demonstrates that outpatient tele‐epilepsy is feasible, sustainable, and scalable.
Collagen production and niche engineering: A novel strategy for cancer cells to survive acidosis in DCIS and evolve
Authors: Damaghi Mehdi , Mori Hidetoshi , Byrne Samantha , Xu Liping , Chen Tingan , Johnson Joseph , Gallant Nathan D. , Marusyk Andriy , Borowsky Alexander D. , Gillies Robert J.
Published: July 2020

Growing tumors are dynamic and nonlinear ecosystems, wherein cancer cells adapt to their local microenvironment, and these adaptations further modify the environment, inducing more changes. From nascent intraductal neoplasms to disseminated metastatic disease, several levels of evolutionary adaptations and selections occur. Here, we focus on one example of such an adaptation mechanism, namely, “niche construction” promoted by adaptation to acidosis, which is a metabolic adaptation to the early harsh environment in intraductal neoplasms. The avascular characteristics of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) make the periluminal volume profoundly acidic, and cancer cells must adapt to this to survive. Based on discovery proteomics, we hypothesized that a component of acid adaptation involves production of collagen by pre‐cancer cells that remodels the extracellular matrix (ECM) and stabilizes cells under acid stress. The proteomic data were surprising as collagen production and deposition are commonly believed to be the responsibility of mesenchymally derived fibroblasts, and not cells of epithelial origin. Subsequent experiments in 3D culture, spinning disk and second harmonic generation microscopy of DCIS lesions in patients’ samples are concordant. Collagen production assay by acid‐adapted cells in vitro demonstrated that the mechanism of induction involves the RAS and SMAD pathways. Secretome analyses show upregulation of ECM remodeling enzymes such as TGM2 and LOXL2 that are collagen crosslinkers. These data strongly indicate that acidosis in incipient cancers induces collagen production by cancer cells and support the hypothesis that this adaptation initiates a tumor‐permissive microenvironment promoting survival and growth of nascent cancers.
Blending Traditional and Nurturing Fathering: Fathers of Children With Autism Managing Work and Family
Authors: Lien Kevin , Lashewicz Bonnie , Mitchell Jennifer , Boettcher Nick
Published: July 2020

Objective

Against a backdrop of hegemonic masculinity, we contribute to understandings of how having a child with autism impacts fathers' navigation of work and family responsibilities.

Background

Parents of children with autism face distinct needs related to accessing health, education, and social supports for their children. In supporting their children, fathers may feel pulled between traditional financial provider roles and relatively nurturing, involved styles of fathering.

Method

Using a traditional masculinity theoretical orientation, we conducted a directed content analysis of narrative data from 26 fathers of children with autism collected as part of a broader project. We analyzed approaches to fathering reflected in fathers' descriptions of managing work and family and corresponding meanings fathers attached to work relative to family responsibilities.

Results

Fathering approaches included (a) traditional breadwinners, (b) caregiving breadwinners, (c) “tag‐team” parents, and (d) caregiving fathers. Meanings of work included (a) financial power and security in the face of autism; (b) work as information, support, and reprieve; and (c) work strain contributing to guilt, sadness, and depression.

Conclusion

Fathers' responsibilities entailed a careful balancing between financial provision and caregiving for their children with autism. We identify theoretical and policy implications aimed at more fully understanding and supporting fathers of children with autism.
Post‐treatment selection for tailored fatigue performance of 18Ni300 maraging steel manufactured by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Elangeswaran Chola , Gurung Kopila , Koch Raphael , Cutolo Antonio , Van Hooreweder Brecht
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the fatigue behaviour of additively manufactured 18Ni300 maraging steel. Specifically, the surface and material parameters impacting fatigue performance are analysed through various post‐treatment combinations. Vertically built miniaturised test samples produced by laser powder bed fusion are tested in as‐built and age‐hardening heat‐treated conditions. To utilise the potential of using additive manufacturing for complex‐shaped parts in which conventional machining tools could have limited access, vibratory finishing and sand blasting are employed. The fatigue results show that in as‐built microstructural condition, both the surface treatments significantly enhanced the fatigue performance, with vibratory finishing outperforming sand blasting owing to better surface finish. After heat treatment, sand‐blasted samples performed better than vibratory‐finished ones because of higher residual stresses. This competing interaction between post‐treatments sheds light on identifying the relative influence of various factors. With systematic postfracture and microstructural analyses highlighting the fatigue influencing factors, recommendations are drawn to select post‐treatments to achieve the desired fatigue performance.
Mountain stoneflies may tolerate warming streams: Evidence from organismal physiology and gene expression
Authors: Hotaling Scott , Shah Alisha A. , McGowan Kerry L. , Tronstad Lusha M. , Giersch J. Joseph , Finn Debra S. , Woods H. Arthur , Dillon Michael E. , Kelley Joanna L.
Published: July 2020

Rapid glacier recession is altering the physical conditions of headwater streams. Stream temperatures are predicted to rise and become increasingly variable, putting entire meltwater‐associated biological communities at risk of extinction. Thus, there is a pressing need to understand how thermal stress affects mountain stream insects, particularly where glaciers are likely to vanish on contemporary timescales. In this study, we measured the critical thermal maximum (CTMAX) of stonefly nymphs representing multiple species and a range of thermal regimes in the high Rocky Mountains, USA. We then collected RNA‐sequencing data to assess how organismal thermal stress translated to the cellular level. Our focal species included the meltwater stonefly, Lednia tumana, which was recently listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act due to climate‐induced habitat loss. For all study species, critical thermal maxima (CTMAX > 20°C) far exceeded the stream temperatures mountain stoneflies experience (<10°C). Moreover, while evidence for a cellular stress response was present, we also observed constitutive expression of genes encoding proteins known to underlie thermal stress (i.e., heat shock proteins) even at low temperatures that reflected natural conditions. We show that high‐elevation aquatic insects may not be physiologically threatened by short‐term exposure to warm temperatures and that longer‐term physiological responses or biotic factors (e.g., competition) may better explain their extreme distributions.
Impact of geriatric trauma service on the outcome of older trauma patents
Authors: Leede Emily , Fry Liam , Crosby Louisa , Hamilton Stacey , Ali Sadia , Brown Carlos
Published: July 2020

Aim

The number of geriatric trauma patients is rising; yet, there is no established best team to care for them. This study analyzed a geriatric trauma service (GTS) that is integrated into the trauma surgery workflow rather than a separate consultation service. We hypothesize this team will lead to decreased mortality, shorter length of stay and increased favorable discharges for geriatric trauma patients.

Methods

In July 2017, we established a GTS consisting of geriatric nurse practitioners who were part of the hospital's geriatrics service, trauma surgeons and surgery residents on the acute care surgery service. The geriatric nurse practitioners were integrated into the trauma surgery workflow and functioned as independent members. The GTS responded to traumas and consultations for patients aged ≥65 years. Trauma surgeons carried out intensive care and operative management, while the geriatric nurse practitioners managed medical issues, family communication and end‐of‐life planning. We carried out a 2 year retrospective analysis of trauma patients aged ≥65 years seen at Dell Seton Medical Center at the University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA, comparing patient outcomes before and after the GTS. The primary outcome was mortality, whereas secondary outcomes included hospital days, intensive care unit days, and discharge disposition.

Results

We found no difference in mortality, intensive care unit days or hospital days with the GTS. However, post‐GTS patients were more often discharged to home, rehabilitation, or hospice, and less often to nursing homes.

Conclusion

An integrated geriatric and trauma team is feasible, and significant changes in disposition can be made by utilizing geriatric nurse practitioners. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 817–821.
Estimated glomerular filtration rate slopes on tenofovir alafenamide
Authors: Ibrahim F , Campbell L , Bailey AC , Stockwell S , Waters L , Orkin C , Johnson M , Gompels M , De Burgh‐Thomas A , Jones R , Schembri G , Mallon PW , Post FA
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim of the study was to analyse and compare estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slopes during exposure to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) in individuals who initiated TAF, regardless of prior regimen, before October 2016.

Methods

An observational cohort study was conducted at 11 clinics in the UK and Ireland. Mixed effects models with random intercept and time terms fitted were used to generate and compare eGFR slopes while participants were exposed to TDF and TAF, with adjustment for age, eGFR at TDF/TAF initiation, gender, ethnicity, and time‐updated CD4 cell count and HIV RNA measurements.

Results

Data were available for 357 subjects (median age 50 years; 80% male; 82% white/other ethnicity; 51% men who have sex with men; median nadir CD4 count 216 cells/µL). The median duration of exposure to TAF was 2.0 (interquartile range 1.6, 2.3) years. At TAF initiation, the median CD4 count was 557 cells/µL, the median eGFR was 80 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 86% had suppressed HIV infection. The mean adjusted eGFR slope during TDF and TAF exposure was −2.08 [95% confidence interval (CI) −2.24, −1.92] and 1.18 (95% CI 0.20, 1.52) mL/min/1.73 m2/year, respectively (P < 0.001). Individuals who experienced rapid eGFR decline (> 3 or 5 mL/min/1.73 m2/year) while receiving TDF experienced significant eGFR recovery while on TAF (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Significant improvement in eGFR slope was observed in patients who switched from TDF‐ to TAF‐containing antiretroviral regimens. These data provide further support for the renal safety of TAF, and for switching those who experience progressive worsening of renal function from TDF to TAF.
Interview with Professor Adrian FM Smith
Authors: Dellaportas Petros , Stephens David A.
Published: July 2020

Adrian Smith joined The Alan Turing Institute as Institute Director and Chief Executive in September 2018. In May 2020, he was confirmed as President Elect of the Royal Society. He is also a member of the government's AI Council, which helps boost AI growth in the UK and promote its adoption and ethical use in businesses and organisations across the country. Professor Smith's previous role was Vice‐Chancellor of the University of London where he was in post from 2012. He is a past President of the Royal Statistical Society and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2001 in recognition of his contribution to statistics. In 2003‐04 Professor Smith undertook an inquiry into Post‐14 Mathematics Education for the UK Secretary of State for Education and Skills and in 2017, on behalf of Her Majesty's Treasury and the Department for Education, published a 16‐18 Maths Review. In 2006 he completed a report for the UK Home Secretary on the issue of public trust in Crime Statistics. He received a knighthood in the 2011 New Year Honours list. The following conversation took place at the Alan Turing Institute in London, on July 19 2019.
CircRHOT1 mediated cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells by sponging miR‐125a‐3p
Authors: Ling Sunkai , He Yanru , Li Xiaoxue , Hu Mingyue , Ma Yu , Li Yuan , Lu Zipeng , Shen Shanshan , Kong Bo , Zou Xiaoping , Jiang Kuirong , Huang Peilin
Published: July 2020

Pancreatic cancer patients are asymptomatic at early stages and leading to late diagnoses. Additionally, pancreatic cancer easily metastasizes and is resistant to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Therefore, it is critical to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in pancreatic cancer to develop more efficient diagnostic and treatment strategies. In this study, we demonstrated that circRHOT1 was overexpressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines, and it was found to directly bind to miR‐125a‐3p, acting as an endogenous sponge to inhibit its activity. Knockdown of circRHOT1 expression significantly inhibited proliferation as well as invasion, and it promoted apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells via the regulation of E2F3 through the targeting of miR‐125a‐3p. Taken together, our results showed that circRHOT1 plays critical roles in regulating the biological functions of pancreatic cancer cells, suggesting that circRHOT1 may serve as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Different interaction of onset age and duration of type 1 diabetes on the dynamics of autoantibodies to insulinoma‐associated antigen‐2 and zinc transporter 8
Authors: Kawasaki Eiji , Oikawa Yoichi , Okada Akira , Kanatsuna Norio , Kawamura Tomoyuki , Kikuchi Tadashi , Terasaki Jungo , Miura Junnosuke , Itoh Yoshihisa , Hanafusa Toshiaki
Published: July 2020

Aims/Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the dynamics associated with autoantibodies to insulinoma‐associated antigen‐2 (IA‐2A) and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8A) relating to the onset age and disease duration in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Using bridging‐type enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, IA‐2A, ZnT8A and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies were evaluated in 269 patients with type 1 diabetes (median onset age 18.2 years, range 0.8–86 years; median diabetes duration 7 years, range 0–58 years). We then compared the prevalence of these autoantibodies among the different age groups, along with the duration of diabetes using the Cochran–Armitage trend test and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of IA‐2A, ZnT8A and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies in patients with duration of ≤3 years was 41.1, 36.7 and 72.2%, respectively, with 80.0% expressing one or more of these autoantibodies. This prevalence declined according to the disease duration (P < 0.005). Both IA‐2A and ZnT8A were more frequently observed in younger patients, whereas glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies was more common in older patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that there was a significant interaction between the onset age and duration of diabetes in patients diagnosed when aged ≤10 years regarding all anti‐islet autoantibodies (P < 0.05). However, for patients diagnosed in the middle tertile (aged 11–30 years), the interaction was significant only for ZnT8A, and for those with late‐onset diabetes (aged ≥31 years) only for IA‐2A.

Conclusions

The current study showed that the rate of disappearance of anti‐islet autoantibodies is faster in patients aged ≤10 years, and that even though both proteins are localized in the insulin granule membrane, humoral autoimmunity to IA‐2 and ZnT8 differs according to the age of onset.
Divergence of seminal fluid gene expression and function among natural snail populations
Authors: Nakadera Yumi , Thornton Smith Alice , Daupagne Léa , Coutellec Marie‐Agnès , Koene Joris M. , Ramm Steven A.
Published: July 2020

Seminal fluid proteins (SFPs) can trigger drastic changes in mating partners, mediating post‐mating sexual selection and associated sexual conflict. Also, cross‐species comparisons have demonstrated that SFPs evolve rapidly and hint that post‐mating sexual selection drives their rapid evolution. In principle, this pattern should be detectable within species as rapid among‐population divergence in SFP expression and function. However, given the multiple other factors that could vary among populations, isolating divergence in SFP‐mediated effects is not straightforward. Here, we attempted to address this gap by combining the power of a common garden design with functional assays involving artificial injection of SFPs in the simultaneously hermaphroditic freshwater snail, Lymnaea stagnalis. We detected among‐population divergence in SFP gene expression, suggesting that seminal fluid composition differs among four populations collected in Western Europe. Furthermore, by artificially injecting seminal fluid extracted from these field‐derived snails into standardized mating partners, we also detected among‐population divergence in the strength of post‐mating effects induced by seminal fluid. Both egg production and subsequent sperm transfer of partners differed depending on the population origin of seminal fluid, with the response in egg production seemingly closely corresponding to among‐population divergence in SFP gene expression. Our results thus lend strong intraspecific support to the notion that SFP expression and function evolve rapidly, and confirm L. stagnalis as an amenable system for studying processes driving SFP evolution.
High hepatitis C virus cure rates with approved interferon‐free direct‐acting antivirals among diverse mainland Chinese patients including genotypes 3a and 3b
Authors: Ji Fanpu , Li Jie , Liu Li , Liang Jing , Wang Xiaozhong , Liu Junping , Cai Dachuan , Huang Rui , Zhang Jiajie , Wang Qi , Nan Yuemin , Li Junyi , Ye Qing , Zhang Mingyuan , Xu Qiang , Guo Feng , Zhao Changqing , Liu Lingdi , He Caini , Li Yu , Wang Wenjun , Kam Leslie Y , Tran Sally , Maeda Mayumi , Mizuta Akiko , Li Zongfang , Dang Shuangsuo , Ren Wanhua , Zhu Qiang , Cheung Ramsey , Niu Junqi , Xie Wen , Pan Hongying , Ren Hong , Wu Chao , Shang Jia , Wang Fengmei , Nguyen Mindie H
Published: July 2020

Background and Aim

Globally, China has the highest chronic hepatitis C (CHC) burden, but its real‐world direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) data are limited. Our aim is to investigate the real‐world outcome of China Food and Drug Administration‐approved DAA therapies across mainland China including those with genotype (GT) 3.

Methods

The REAL‐C is a multinational real‐world interferon‐free DAA‐treated CHC registry of several mainland China and other Asian centers. We evaluated the sustained virological response rate 12 weeks after end of treatment (SVR12), adverse events, and treatment effect on liver function and fibrosis (fibrosis‐4 index).

Results

We analyzed 859 DAA‐treated CHC patients (6/1/2017–5/30/2019) from 12 mainland China centers (three municipalities and nine provinces): median age 52, 49.9% male, 33.1% cirrhosis, 95% treatment naïve, and 2.5% HBsAg+. The most common GT was GT1b (523, 62.2%), followed by GT2a (156, 18.5%), GT3b (74, 8.8%), GT3a (41, 4.9%), and GT6 (37, 4.4%). SVR12 rates were 98.0% overall (95% confidence interval 96.9–98.8%), 98.1% for GT1b, 96.8% GT2a, 100% GT3a, 97.3% GT3b, and 100% GT6. Baseline cirrhosis and male sex but not prior treatment history, renal dysfunction, age, and GTs were associated with SVR12. For both cirrhotic and non‐cirrhotic patients, there were significant improvement in liver function tests, alpha fetoprotein, and fibrosis‐4 index with SVR12. Serious adverse events were rare (1.1%) with only nine patients discontinuing therapy prematurely and anemia being the most common adverse event (13.1%, mostly with ribavirin).

Conclusions

In real‐world Chinese patients with diverse GTs, Chinese Food and Drug Administration‐approved interferon‐free DAAs were well tolerated, provided high cure rates (98.0% overall) including GT3a/3b, and led to improvement of liver function.
Factor structure of the professional quality of life scale among direct support professionals: factorial validity and scale reliability
Authors: Keesler J. M. , Fukui S.
Published: July 2020

Background

Direct support professionals (DSPs) support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in activities of daily living. DSPs may experience both contentment and struggles with their work. As agencies grapple with their recruitment and retention, understanding DSPs' holistic work experience is important. The Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale assesses multiple domains of work experiences (i.e. compassion satisfaction, burnout and secondary traumatic stress). Despite extensive use across helping professions, the ProQOL is largely absent from DSP research.

Method

This study examined the factor structure of the ProQOL with DSPs. Using secondary data from 495 DSPs, confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to determine if the original three‐factor structure holds for this population.

Results

We confirmed the factorial validity of the ProQOL with the three‐factor solution. In the validation process, some modifications were suggested to the model, which also improved the scale reliability.

Conclusions

The current study provides initial evidence of the factorial validity of the ProQOL when used with DSPs, as well as recommendations for subsequent improvements and future research.
Experiments in farmers' collectives in Eastern India and Nepal: Process, benefits, and challenges
Authors: Sugden Fraser , Agarwal Bina , Leder Stephanie , Saikia Panchali , Raut Manita , Kumar Anoj , Ray Dhananjay
Published: July 2020

Do farmers' collectives, which pool land, labour, capital, and skills to create medium‐sized production units, offer a more viable model of farming for resource‐constrained smallholders than individual family farms? A participatory action research project in Eastern India and Nepal provides notable answers. Groups of marginal and tenant farmers, catalysed by the project, evolved into four different collective models with varying levels of cooperation, gender composition, and land ownership/tenancy status. Based on 3 years of action research, this paper examines how the models evolved and their differential outcomes. All groups have gained from cultivating contiguous plots in their efficiency of labour and machine use for land preparation and irrigation, and from economies in input purchase. Several collectives of tenant farmers have also enhanced their bargaining power vis‐a‐vis an entrenched landlord class and thus been able to negotiate lower rents and refuse long‐standing feudal obligations. However, the models differ in their extent of economic gain and their ability to handle gender inequalities and conflicts over labour sharing. The paper explores the historical, regional, and cultural factors that could explain such differences across the models. It thus offers unique insights into the processes, benefits, and challenges of farmers' collectives and provides pointers for replication and further research.