bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New perspective to evaluate N1 staging: The peripheral lymph node metastasis status of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Liu Lei , Wang Guige , Huang Cheng , Chen Yeye , Zhang Ye , Guo Chao , Li Shanqing
Published: October 2019

Background

Lymph node (LN) metastasis status is the decision‐making basis for the surgical procedure and adjuvant therapy modalities. Fewer studies have previously focused on LN metastasis in N1 station, especially on peripheral lymph node (PLN) metastasis in N1 station. This study aimed to reveal the metastasis status of PLN of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and investigate its effects on N staging.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated a consecutive series of patients who underwent curative resection for histologically confirmed N1 NSCLC. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to analyze the effects of PLN on N staging.

Results

A total of 105 patients with confirmed pathological N1 (pN1) stage NSCLC with solitary nodule and without neoadjuvant therapy were enrolled into the study: 55 patients had intraperipheral LN metastasis (IPLNM), and 50 patients had extra‐peripheral LN metastasis (EPLNM). Before PSM analysis, type of location (P = 0.002), surgical procedure (P = 0.008), number of positive LNs (P = 0.029), number of LNs removed (P = 0.010), lobe of lung cancer (P = 0.031), and vascular invasion (P = 0.049) showed significant differences between the two groups. After PSM analysis, statistically there were differences in type of location (P = 0.034), number of positive LNs (P = 0.008) and vascular invasion (P = 0.049) between them.

Conclusion

PLN metastasis was a quite common pattern of LN metastasis in N1 station of NSCLC. IPLNM occurred more frequently in central NSCLC and NSCLC with vascular invasion, and thoracotomy was likely to secure more accurate PLN staging. Clinicians should pay great attention to PLN dissection. Follow‐up data will be needed in order to detect the prognosis of IPLNM patients.
popler: An r package for extraction and synthesis of population time series from the long‐term ecological research (LTER) network
Authors: Compagnoni Aldo , Bibian Andrew J. , Ochocki Brad M. , Levin Sam , Zhu Kai , Miller Tom E. X.
Published: October 2019

Population dynamics play a central role in the historical and current development of fundamental and applied ecological science. The nascent culture of open data promises to increase the value of population dynamics studies to the field of ecology. However, synthesis of population data is constrained by the difficulty in identifying relevant datasets, by the heterogeneity of available data and by access to raw (as opposed to aggregated or derived) observations.

To obviate these issues, we built a relational database, popler, and its R client, the library "popler". popler accommodates the vast majority of population data under a common structure, and without the need for aggregating raw observations. The "popler" R library is designed for users unfamiliar with the structure of the database and with the SQL language. This R library allows users to identify, download, explore and cite datasets salient to their needs.

We implemented popler as a PostgreSQL instance, where we stored population data originated by the United States Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) Network. Our focus on the US LTER data aims to leverage the potential of this vast open data resource. The database currently contains 305 datasets from 25 LTER sites. popler is designed to accommodate automatic updates of existing datasets, and to accommodate additional datasets from LTER as well as non‐LTER studies.

The combination of the online database and the R library "popler" is a resource for data synthesis efforts in population ecology. The common structure of popler simplifies comparative analyses, and the availability of raw data confers flexibility in data analysis. The "popler" R library maximizes these opportunities by providing a user‐friendly interface to the online database.
Video Versus Direct and Augmented Direct Laryngoscopy in Pediatric Tracheal Intubations
Authors: Kaji Amy H. , Shover Carolyn , Lee Jennifer , Yee Lisa , Pallin Daniel J. , April Michael D. , Carlson Jestin N. , Fantegrossi Andrea , Brown Calvin A.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

With respect to first‐attempt intubation success, the pediatric literature demonstrates either clinical equipoise or superiority of direct laryngoscopy (DL) when compared to video laryngoscopy (VL). Furthermore, it is unknown how VL compares to DL, when DL is “augmented” by maneuvers, such as optimal external laryngeal manipulation (OELM), upright or ramped positioning, or the use of the bougie. The objective of our study was to compare first‐attempt success between VL and all DL, including “augmented DL” for pediatric intubations.

Methods

We analyzed the National Emergency Airway Registry database of intubations of patients < 16 years. Variables collected included patient demographics, body habitus, impression of airway difficulty, intubating position, reduced neck mobility, airway characteristics, device, medications, and operator characteristics, adjusted for clustering by center. Primary outcome was the difference in first‐attempt success for DL and augmented DL versus VL. Secondary outcomes included adverse events. In a planned sensitivity analysis, a propensity‐adjusted analysis for first‐attempt success and a subgroup analysis of children < 2 years was also performed.

Results

Of 625 analyzable pediatric encounters, 294 (47.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 25.1% to 69.0%) were DL; 332 (53.1%, 95% CI = 31.0% to 74.9%) were VL. Median age was 4 years (interquartile range = 1 to 10 years); 225 (36.0%, 95% CI = 30.8% to 41.2%) were < 2 years. Overall first‐pass success was 79.6% (95% CI = 74.1% to 84.9%). VL first‐pass success was 278/331 (84.0%) versus 219/294 for DL (74.5%), adjusted for clustering (odds ratio [OR] = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.3 to 2.5). Multivariable regression showed that VL yielded a higher odds of first‐attempt success than DL augmented by OELM or use of a bougie (adjusted OR = 5.5, 95% CI = 1.7 to 18.1). Propensity‐adjusted analyses supported the main results. Subgroup analysis of age < 2 years also demonstrated VL superiority (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.1 to 3.3) compared with DL. Adverse events were comparable in both univariate and multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

When compared to DL, VL was associated with higher first‐pass success in this pediatric population, even in the subgroup of patients < 2 years, as well as when DL was augmented. There were no differences in adverse effects between DL and VL.
Trends in antidepressant use among children and adolescents: a Scandinavian drug utilization study
Authors: Wesselhoeft R. , Jensen P. B. , Talati A. , Reutfors J. , Furu K. , Strandberg‐Larsen K. , Damkier P. , Pottegård A. , Bliddal M.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To compare antidepressant utilization in individuals aged 5–19 years from the Scandinavian countries.

Methods

A population‐based drug utilization study using publicly available data of antidepressant use from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Results

In the study period from 2007 to 2017, the proportion of antidepressant users increased markedly in Sweden (9.3–18.0/1000) compared to Norway (5.1–7.6/1000) and Denmark (9.3–7.5/1000). In 2017, the cumulated defined daily doses (DDD) of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were 5611/1000 inhabitants in Sweden, 2709/1000 in Denmark, and 1848/1000 in Norway. The use of ‘other antidepressants' (ATC code N06AX) also increased in Sweden with a higher DDD in 2017 (497/1000) compared to Denmark (225/1000) and Norway (170/1000). The use of tricyclic antidepressants was generally low in 2017 with DDDs ranging between 30–42 per 1000. The proportion of antidepressant users was highest among 15‐ to 19‐year‐old individuals. Girls were more likely to receive treatment than boys, and the treated female/male ratios per 1000 were similar in Sweden (2.39), Denmark (2.44), and Norway (2.63).

Conclusion

Even in highly comparable healthcare systems like the Scandinavian countries', variation in antidepressant use is considerable. Swedish children and adolescents have a markedly higher and still increasing use of antidepressants compared to Danish and Norwegian peers.
Trends in gamma‐hydroxybutyrate‐related harms based on ambulance attendances from 2012 to 2018 in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Arunogiri Shalini , Moayeri Foruhar , Crossin Rose , Killian Jessica J. , Smith Karen , Scott Debbie , Lubman Dan I.
Published: October 2019

Background and aims

Although the prevalence of gamma‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is relatively low globally, harms related to the drug appear to be increasing. Few existing studies present reliable, representative, population‐level data on GHB‐related harms. The aim of this study was to investigate trends in acute GHB‐related harms within an ambulance database in Australia.

Design, setting and participants

Cross‐sectional, retrospective analysis of data on all GHB‐related ambulance attendances in the state of Victoria, Australia during a 7‐year period (January 2012–December 2018)

Measurements

Presentations were characterized based on patient demographics, transport to hospital, co‐occurring substance use (i.e. GHB only, alcohol, methamphetamine, heroin, benzodiazepine and cannabis) and clinical presentation (e.g. symptoms of anxiety, psychosis, depression).

Findings

There were 5866 GHB‐related ambulance attendances between 2012 and 2018, with the prevalence rate increasing from 8.8 per 100 000 population in 2012 to a maximum of 21.7 per 100 000 population in 2017. Methamphetamine [odds ratio (OR) = 6.23, P < 0.001] and benzodiazepine‐related (OR = 1.43, P < 0.001) co‐occurrences; ages between 18–29 (OR = 6.58, P < 0.001) and 30–39 years (OR = 2.02, P < 0.001); and male gender (OR = 1.23, P < 0.001) were significant predictors of GHB‐related attendances.

Conclusions

There has been a 147% increase in the prevalence of GHB‐related ambulance attendances in Victoria, Australia between 2012 and 2019, largely attributable to a growth in the proportions of people using gamma‐hydroxybutyrate alone or concurrently with methamphetamine.
The financial burden of acute odontogenic infections: the South Australian experience
Authors: Han J , Liau I , Bayetto K , May B , Goss A , Sambrook P , Cheng A
Published: October 2019

Background

Acute odontogenic infections are a common surgical emergency managed by public hospitals in Australia which cause considerable patient morbidity and occasionally, mortality. Despite posing a significant public health burden, Australian data evaluating the cost of the management of these patients are lacking. This study assessed the patient and treatment variables associated with inpatient management of deep odontogenic infections, and their respective financial impact, at a statewide Oral & Maxillofacial service.

Methods

A retrospective audit was carried out of patients with deep odontogenic infections at our institution, over a 7‐year period. The primary outcome was the total cost of admission. Secondary outcomes included treatment received, operating room time, return‐to‐theatre, length of admission (LOS), and intensive care unit (ICU) use. Cost variables were assessed against the total LOS and ICU use to determine clinical predictors affecting outcome.

Results

Four hundred and sixty two patients met the inclusion criteria. The average cost per patient was $12 228 Australian Dollars. After multivariate analysis, variables most significantly associated with increased cost of care and LOS were high‐risk infections with airway compromise, high admission white cell count and age.

Conclusion

Hospital‐based management of deep‐space odontogenic infections engender significant costs compared to early primary care intervention such as a dental extraction ($181/extraction).
Trajectories of home nursing use for older women in Melbourne, Australia: 2006‐2015
Authors: Dickins Marissa , Joe Angela , Enticott Joanne , Ogrin Rajna , Lowthian Judy
Published: October 2019

Objective

To profile changes in older women accessing home nursing between 2006 and 2015, focussing on living circumstances.

Methods

Data pertaining to Australian women aged 55+ who accessed a home nursing service between 2006 and 2015 were analysed, stratified by living status. Comparisons were made between the years 2006 and 2015; rates and relative rates of use per 1000 clients were calculated.

Results

Fewer women lived alone in 2015 compared with 2006. Women were older, less likely to be born in Australia, speak English at home, had more diagnoses and higher average Charlson Comorbidity Index scores in 2015. Relative rates of service use for older women living with others increased slightly over the 10 years, while decreasing by 13% for those living alone.

Conclusion

Women using home nursing services are older than previously, more medically complex, more likely to be born from countries other than Australia and speak a preferred language other than English.
A comparison of a prototype electromyograph vs. a mechanomyograph and an acceleromyograph for assessment of neuromuscular blockade
Authors: Bowdle A. , Bussey L. , Michaelsen K. , Jelacic S. , Nair B. , Togashi K. , Hulvershorn J.
Published: October 2019

The extent of neuromuscular blockade during anaesthesia is frequently measured using a train‐of‐four stimulus. Various monitors have been used to quantify the train‐of‐four, including mechanomyography, acceleromyography and electromyography. Mechanomyography is often considered to be the laboratory gold standard of measurement, but is not commercially available and has rarely been used in clinical practice. Acceleromyography is currently the most commonly used monitor in the clinical setting, whereas electromyography is not widely available. We compared a prototype electromyograph with a newly constructed mechanomyograph and a commercially available acceleromyograph monitor in 43 anesthetised patients. The mean difference (bias; 95% limits of agreement) in train‐of‐four ratios was 4.7 (−25.2 to 34.6) for mechanomyography vs. electromyography; 14.9 (−13.0 to 42.8) for acceleromyography vs. electromyography; and 9.8 (−31.8 to 51.3) for acceleromyography vs. mechanomyography. The mean difference (95% limits of agreement) in train‐of‐four ratios between opposite arms when using electromyography was −0.7 (−20.7 to 19.3). There were significantly more acceleromyography train‐of‐four values > 1.0 (23%) compared with electromyography or mechanomography (2–4%; p < 0.0001). Electromyography most closely resembled mechanomyographic assessment of neuromuscular blockade, whereas acceleromyography frequently produced train‐of‐four ratio values > 1.0, complicating the interpretation of acceleromyography results in the clinical setting.
Characterization of cardiac acoustic biomarkers in patients with heart failure
Authors: Burkhoff Daniel , Bailey Grant , Gimbel J Rod
Published: October 2019

Background

The wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) records electrocardiograms and cardiohemic vibrations that can be algorithmically combined to provide cardiac acoustic biomarkers (CABs). We characterized CAB variability, diurnal variations, and changes over time among heart failure patients.

Methods

Wearable cardioverter defibrillator heart failure patients who had CAB recordings from March 2015 to July 2017 were included. CAB parameters included: electromechanical activation time (EMAT), EMATc (EMAT/RR interval), left ventricular systolic time (LVST), LVSTc (LVST/RR interval), S3 and S4 strengths, and systolic dysfunction index (SDI). Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and analysis of variance were used to report temporal and clinical associations.

Results

One thousand and sixty‐six WCD patients met the study criteria. Diastolic CAB parameters showed significantly greater intra‐subject variability than systolic CAB parameters (>29% vs. <15%, p < .01). CAB parameters varied very little with age, gender, and ejection fraction (R2 = 0.004 to 0.06) in this heart failure population. Similarly, all CABs except SDI (R2 = 0.58) were independent of QRS duration, (R2 = −0.01 to 0.58). Heart rate had a more of significant influence on the systolic CABs than the diastolic CABs (p < .05). CABs were significantly different when measured at daytime versus nighttime (p < .01) and were significantly lower at the end of WCD wear compared with the beginning of wear (p < .05).

Conclusions

Noninvasive CABs offer the possibility to assess parameters associated with LV function, clinical status, and other aspects of cardiovascular physiology that differ between normal and heart failure states. The present study provides critical information about typical values in heart failure patients, intra‐subject variability, circadian rhythms, and changes over time of these parameters.
Interval laparoscopic appendectomy after antibiotic therapy for appendiceal abscess in elderly patients
Authors: Mima Kosuke , Miyanari Nobutomo , Itoyama Rumi , Nakao Yosuke , Kato Rikako , Shigaki Hironobu , Kurashige Junji , Inoue Mitsuhiro , Iwagami Shiro , Mizumoto Takao , Kubota Tatsuo , Baba Hideo
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of interval laparoscopic appendectomy after antibiotic therapy in elderly patients with appendiceal abscess.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data for 50 patients with appendiceal abscess aged ≥18 years who had initially planned to undergo interval laparoscopic appendectomy after antibiotic therapy and 50 patients with appendicitis aged ≥70 years who had undergone early laparoscopic appendectomy. All patients were treated at the National Hospital Organization Kumamoto Medical Center between 2012 and 2018. We compared perioperative outcomes after interval appendectomy between patients aged <70 years and ≥70 years.

Results

Clinical progression of appendicitis during antibiotic therapy developed in one patient (2.0%), and recurrent appendicitis after antibiotic therapy for appendiceal abscess occurred in two patients (4.0%). Pathological findings confirmed appendiceal neoplasms in four patients (8.0%). Postoperative infectious complications occurred in 1 of 47 patients (2.1%) who had undergone successful interval laparoscopic appendectomy, and the median length of postoperative hospital stay was 4 days (interquartile range, 3‐5 days). There were no significant differences in outcomes after interval appendectomy between patients aged <70 years and ≥70 years. In the secondary analysis, the median length of postoperative hospital stay after interval laparoscopic appendectomy for appendiceal abscess (4 days) was significantly shorter than that after early laparoscopic appendectomy for uncomplicated appendicitis (7 days; P < .001).

Conclusions

Interval laparoscopic appendectomy for appendiceal abscess may be safe and effective in elderly patients without severe comorbidities. Interval appendectomy may be necessary for determining the underlying cause of appendiceal abscess in adults.
Costunolide represses hepatic fibrosis through WW domain‐containing protein 2‐mediated Notch3 degradation
Authors: Ge Mao‐xu , Liu Hong‐tao , Zhang Na , Niu Wei‐xiao , Lu Zhen‐ning , Bao Yun‐yang , Huang Rui , Yu Dong‐ke , Shao Rong‐guang , He Hong‐wei
Published: October 2019

Background and Purpose

This study investigates the antifibrotic activities and potential mechanisms of costunolide (COS), a natural sesquiterpene compound.

Experimental Approach

Rats subjected to bile duct ligation and mice challenged with CCl4 were used to study the antifibrotic effects of COS in vivo. Mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (pHSCs) and human HSC line LX‐2 also served as an in vitro liver fibrosis models. The expression of fibrogenic genes and signaling proteins in the neurogenic locus notch homologue protein 3 (Notch3)–hairy/enhancer of split‐1 (HES1) pathway was examined using western blot and/or real‐time PCR. Notch3 degradation was analysed using immunofluorescence and coimmunoprecipitation.

Key Results

In animals, COS administration attenuated hepatic histopathological injury and collagen accumulation and reduced the expression of fibrogenic genes. COS time‐ and dose‐dependently suppressed the levels of fibrotic markers in LX‐2 cells and mouse pHSCs. Mechanistic studies showed COS destabilized Notch3 and subsequently inhibited the Notch3–HES1 pathway, thus inhibiting HSC activation. Furthermore, COS blocked the WW domain‐containing protein 2 (WWP2)/protein phosphatase 1G (PPM1G) interaction and enhanced the effect of WWP2 on Notch3 degradation.

Conclusions and Implications

COS exerted potent antifibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo by disrupting the WWP2/PPM1G complex, promoting Notch3 degradation and inhibiting the Notch3/HES1 pathway. This indicates that COS may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
Neighbourhood food environments revisited: When food deserts meet food swamps
Authors: Yang Meng , Wang Haoluan , Qiu Feng
Published: October 2019

This study uses service area–based coverage and various count regression methods to assess neighbourhood‐level healthy and unhealthy food environments, and food access associated with different socio‐economic groups in Edmonton, Canada. We identify three types of vulnerable neighbourhoods according to different food environments: food deserts (i.e., neighbourhoods lack sufficient access to healthy foods); food swamps (i.e., neighbourhoods have excess access to unhealthy foods); and those with overlaps of food swamps and food deserts. We also identify neighbourhoods with superior access to healthy foods (i.e., food oases). Additionally, our results from regression analyses indicate: (1) child population is negatively associated with both healthy and unhealthy food resources; (2) good access to public transportation is associated with good coverage of all healthy food outlets and convenience stores; and (3) deprived neighbourhoods with higher percentages of minority populations have better coverage of both healthy and unhealthy foods in general. The results from this study can help the City of Edmonton identify the key neighbourhoods with high potential for local business and the hotspot neighbourhoods that require particular support. Tailored strategies are proposed to effectively and efficiently improve food environments with limited resources.
Modifications induced by chemical skin allergens on the metabolome of reconstructed human epidermis: A pilot high‐resolution magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance study
Authors: Moussallieh François‐Marie , Moss Eric , Elbayed Karim , Lereaux Guillaume , Tourneix Fleur , Lepoittevin Jean‐Pierre
Published: October 2019

Background

High‐resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) is a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique that enables the characterization of metabolic phenotypes/metabolite profiles of cells, tissues, and organs, under both normal and pathological conditions, without resorting to time‐consuming extraction techniques.

Objectives

To assess the impact of chemical skin sensitizers vs non‐sensitizers on the metabolome of three‐dimensional reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) by HRMAS NMR.

Methods

Based on the SENS‐IS assay, 12 skin sensitizers and five non‐sensitizing chemicals were investigated and applied on EpiSkin RHE at the published maximal non‐irritating concentrations under the conditions of the test. The metabolome of RHE samples was then analyzed by HRMAS NMR.

Results

A total of 32 different metabolites were identified; 20 of these were quantified for all samples. Statistical univariate analysis showed that the tissue content of most measured metabolites (with the exception of acetate and glucose) was different in the untreated, treated with non‐sensitizers, and treated with sensitizers samples. In RHE samples in contact with sensitizing chemicals, concentrations of 18 metabolites were significantly decreased. Alanine and tyrosine could not discriminate between sensitizer‐ and non‐sensitizer‐treated groups. A multivariate partial least‐squares‐discriminant analysis was performed on the two treated groups, discriminating sensitizing and non‐sensitizing chemicals with a very good R2Y value of 0.87 and a good Q2Y value of 0.70.

Conclusions

Data suggest that HRMAS NMR could be used to monitor the impact of chemicals, skin allergens vs non‐sensitizers, on the metabolome of three‐dimensional RHE.
Montgomery T‐tube for management of tracheomalacia: Impact on voice‐related quality of life
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Natale Giovanni , Freda Chiara , Cascone Roberto , Carlucci Annalisa , Costanzo Saveria , Ferrara Vincenzo , Santini Mario
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Tracheostomy is a common procedure for management of tracheomalacia. However, the limitation to speak related to tracheostomy cannula could affect the quality of life.

Objectives

we reported a new minimally invasive procedure to replace tracheostomy cannula with Montgomery T‐tube to improve the ability of speaking.

Methods

This is a single center study including all consecutive patients undergoing the replacement of standard tracheostomy cannula with T‐tube for management of tracheomalacia. The end‐points were to evaluate (a) the changes in Voice‐related quality of Life (V‐RQOL) before and after T‐tube placement; and (b) the complications related to T‐tube.

Results

Eleven patients were included in the study. T‐tube was placed using flexible bronchoscopy and laryngeal mask airway. A suture was inserted through the proximal end of T‐tube. Once the stent was introduced with a clamp into the trachea, a traction was applied on the suture to facilitate the alignment of the upper end of the stent. The comparison of V‐RQOL values before and after T‐tube insertion showed a significant improvement in social/emotional (39.2 ± 6.1 vs 66.8 ± 1.9; P = .0001); physical functioning (21 ± 5.7 vs 56.4 ± 5.3; P = 0.0001) and total V‐RQOL scores (33.9 + 5.4 vs 61.3 + 6.1; P = 0.0001). No complications were seen during the insertion of the stent. In two patients, T‐tube was obstructed by mucus that resolved with aspiration using flexible bronchoscopy (mean follow‐up: 18 ± 10 months).

Conclusions

Our technique is simple and safe, not needing specific skills and/or cumbersome devices. The replacement of tracheostomy cannula with T‐tube seems to improve the quality of voice without adding major complications.
The digging‐in effect on ant studies with pitfall traps: influence of type of habitat and sampling time
Authors: Jiménez‐Carmona Francisco , Carpintero Soledad , Reyes‐López Joaquín Luis
Published: October 2019

Pitfall traps are among the most common sampling methods used for the study of ants. There are many types of traps and many possible ways of using them. The various methodologies may introduce biases in sampling. One possible bias may be caused by the digging‐in effect (DE), resulting in higher catches of ants immediately after traps are set in the ground which subsequently decline. In this study, we performed two experiments to verify the consequences of the DE for ants in a Mediterranean ecosystem. In the first experiment we distinguished between two types of habitats: closed and open (i.e., with or without shrub or tree cover). The second experiment was carried out in a homogeneous pasture where the time of prevalence of the DE was verified, investigating the duration of the effect. The results indicate differences between communities in the first 24 h after setting of the traps, which had disappeared after 48 h. This does not dismiss the possibility of certain species being affected either positively (increase in captures) or negatively (decrease). Changes in species composition, determining whether the DE was manifested or not, differed among habitat types.
Effects of hippocampal histone acetylation and HDAC inhibition on spatial learning and memory in the Morris water maze in rats
Authors: Topuz Ruhan Deniz , Gunduz Ozgur , Tastekin Ebru , Karadag Cetin Hakan
Published: October 2019

In recent years, it has been pointed out that epigenetic changes affect learning and memory formation. Particularly, it has been shown that histone acetylation and DNA methylation work in concert to regulate learning and memory formation. We aimed to examine whether acetylation of H2B within the rat hippocampus alters by trainings in the Morris water maze test. Male, 2–3 months old, Sprague Dawley rats were trained in Morris water maze task. Animals were given four trials per day for five consecutive days to locate a hidden platform. On the sixth day, the platform was removed and the animals were swum for 60 s. The effects of sodium butyrate, histone deacetylase inhibitor, were tested on normal and scopolamine‐induced memory‐impaired rats. The histone deacetylase inhibitor, sodium butyrate, increased histone H2B acetylation in normal rats. Sodium butyrate had no effect on learning and memory performance of normal rats; however, it partially ameliorated learning and memory disruption induced by scopolamine. So, the histone deacetylase inhibitors can be new treatment agent for cognitive disorders.
Impact of age on survival of patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest transported to tertiary emergency medical institutions in Osaka, Japan
Authors: Nakamura Fumiko , Kajino Kentaro , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Daya Mohamud R , Ong Marcus EH , Matsuyama Tasuku , Yamada Tomoki , Hayakawa Koichi , Irisawa Taro , Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Noguchi Kazuo , Nishimura Tetsuro , Uejima Toshifumi , Yagi Yoshiki , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Kishimoto Masafumi , Matsuura Makoto , Hayashi Yasuyuki , Sogabe Taku , Morooka Takaya , Iwami Taku , Shimazu Takeshi , Kuwagata Yasuyuki ,   for the CRITICAL Study investigators
Published: October 2019

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) characteristics of patients stratified by age who had resuscitation attempted and were transported to tertiary emergency medical institutions in Osaka Prefecture, Japan; especially those of advanced age.

Methods

A prospective, population‐based, observational review was carried out of consecutive OHCA patients with emergency responder resuscitation attempts from July 2012 to December 2016 in Osaka, Japan. Patients were classified into four groups: (i) 18–64 years; (ii) 65–74 years; (iii) 75–84 years; and (iv) ≥85 years. Patient, event and treatment characteristics were examined for patients with presumed cardiac etiology of OHCA. The primary outcome was the 1‐month survival with a neurologically favorable outcome.

Results

A total of 4636 patients with OHCA of presumed cardiac origin were transported to tertiary emergency medical institutions. The number of patients in the four groups was as follows: (i) 1290 (27.8%); (ii) 1102 (23.8%); (iii) 1420 (30.6%); and (iv) 824 (17.8%). The 1‐month survival with a neurologically favorable outcome was: (i) 207 (16.0%); (ii) 96 (8.7%); (iii) 60 (4.2%); and (iv) seven (0.85%). In a multivariate analysis for 1‐month survival with a neurologically favorable outcome, increased age was a significant prognostic factor (≥85 years; adjusted odds ratio 0.08, 95% confidence interval 0.03–0.23) for poor outcomes.

Conclusions

In this population, advanced age (≥85 years) was strongly associated with poor outcomes. Further discussion of policies directed at resuscitation of very elderly OHCA patients is required, considering limited medical resources and the rapidly aging population in Japan. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 1088–1095.
Cell migration and osteo/odontogenesis stimulation of iRoot FS as a potential apical barrier material in apexification
Authors: Liu Y. , Liu X. M. , Bi J. , Yu S. , Yang N. , Song B. , Chen X.
Published: October 2019

Aim

To investigate the in vitro biological effects of a nanoparticle bioceramic material, iRoot Fast Set root repair material (iRoot FS), on the proliferation, migration and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of human stem cells from the apical papilla (hSCAP), and to further explore the mechanism involved in osteo/odontogenic induction of iRoot FS.

Methodology

hSCAP were isolated and characterized in vitro. iRoot FS conditioned medium were prepared and used to treat hSCAP, while using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) conditioned medium as the positive control and regular medium as the negative control. MTT assay and BrdU labelling assay were performed to determine cell proliferation. Wound healing assay and transwell assay were conducted to evaluate cell migration. The osteo/odontogenic differentiation of hSCAP was evaluated by qPCR, Western blot and Alizarin red S staining. Wnt inhibitor was used for downregulating the expression level of β‐catenin of hSCAP.

Results

The cell proliferation of hSACP in the iRoot FS group was not significantly different compared with the control groups. The cell migration of hSCAP in the iRoot FS group was significantly increased than the MTA and negative control groups (P < 0.01). The expression levels of osteo/odontogenic markers and mineralization nodule formation of hSCAP in the iRoot FS group were significantly elevated (P < 0.01). Furthermore, iRoot FS enhanced the osteo/odontogenic differentiation of hSCAP by activating Wnt/β‐catenin signalling.

Conclusions

iRoot FS promoted the cell migration of hSCAP and enhanced their oseto/odontogenesis potential via the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway without cytotoxicity. iRoot FS had satisfactory biological properties and has potential to be used as an apical barrier in apexification or as a coronal sealing material in regenerative endodontic treatment.
Unveiling hermetic failure of ceramic tubes by digital image correlation and acoustic emission
Authors: Bumgardner Clifton H. , Heim Frederick M. , Roache David C. , Jarama Alex , Xu Peng , Lu Roger , Lahoda Edward J. , Croom Brendan P. , Deck Christian P. , Li Xiaodong
Published: October 2019

A new, in situ hermeticity testing apparatus has been developed to allow helium leak evaluation of ceramic tubes, including nuclear‐grade SiC/SiC fuel cladding ceramic matrix composites (CMC), during four‐point bending with simultaneous monitoring of local deformation and damage, using stereoscopic digital image correlation (DIC) and acoustic emissions. The capabilities of the experimental apparatus are demonstrated using alumina, borosilicate glass, and 4130 steel tubes with representative cladding dimensions and then applied to study the deformation‐hermeticity relationship of SiC/SiC CMCs. Results of three CMCs appear to indicate that matrix cracking occurs near the deviation from linearity strain at strains ranging from 0.04% to 0.06% and is shortly followed by an initial loss of gas tightness by 0.09% bending strain. Leaking increased in distinct steps over 0.1%‐0.2% bending strain, and within this range, results indicate that prior to fiber fracture, it is likely possible to regain gas tightness upon unloading. This technique and uncovered hermetic failure behavior are intended to progress the standardization of a test methodology for nuclear reactor components and to begin to resolve the mechanisms controlling distinct steps of ceramic matrix composite failure.
Staff understandings of abuse and poor practice in residential settings for adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Fyson Rachel , Patterson Anne
Published: October 2019

Background

A common factor in the abuse of people with intellectual disabilities in residential settings has been the failure of care staff and frontline managers to recognise poor practice at an early stage and prevent its development into a culture of abuse. In this context, staff understandings of abuse and poor practice in residential services for people with intellectual disabilities were explored.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews (n = 56) were undertaken with care staff and frontline managers working across England. Interviews included the use of vignettes, based on real‐life experiences of people with intellectual disabilities, to prompt discussion.

Results

Staff struggled to define either “abuse” or “poor practice”, focussing more on individual acts or omissions than on institutional practices. When faced with vignettes, staff demonstrated a lack of agreement regarding what constitutes either abuse or poor practice.

Conclusions

The implications for practice in residential care settings and for safeguarding training are discussed.
Functional traits explain amphibian distribution in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Lourenço‐de‐Moraes Ricardo , Campos Felipe S. , Ferreira Rodrigo B. , Beard Karen H. , Solé Mirco , Llorente Gustavo A. , Bastos Rogério P.
Published: October 2019

Aim

Species distributions are one of the most important ways to understand how communities interact through macroecological relationships. The functional abilities of a species, such as its plasticity in various environments, can determine its distribution, species richness and beta diversity patterns. In this study, we evaluate how functional traits influence the distribution of amphibians, and hypothesize which functional traits explain the current pattern of amphibian species composition.

Location

Atlantic Forest, Brazil.

Taxon

Amphibia (Anura and Gymnophiona)

Methods

Using potential distributions of Brazilian amphibians from Atlantic Forest based on their functional traits, we analysed the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on species richness, endemism (with permutation multivariate analysis) and beta diversity components (i.e. total, turnover and nestedness dissimilarities).

Results

Environmental variables explained 59.5% of species richness, whereas functional traits explained 15.8% of species distribution (geographical species range) for Anuran and 88.8% for Gymnophiona. Body size had the strongest correlation with species distribution. Results showed that species with medium to large body size, and species that are adapted to living in open areas tended to disperse from west to east direction. Current forest changes directly affected beta diversity patterns (i.e. most species adapted to novel environments increase their ranges). Beta diversity partitioning between humid and dry forests showed decreased nestedness and increased turnover by increasing altitude in the south‐eastern region of the Atlantic Forest.

Main Conclusions

Our study shows that functional traits directly influence the ability of the species to disperse. With the alterations of the natural environment, species more apt to these alterations have dispersed or increased their distribution, which consequently changes community structure. As a result, there are nested species distribution patterns and homogenization of amphibian species composition throughout the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.
Intermediated surge pricing
Authors: Bikhchandani Sushil
Published: October 2019

Although Uber and Lyft are known for their flexible “surge pricing,” they are surprisingly rigid in another way: each firm takes a constant percentage of passenger fare whether or not there is a surge. In this paper, I investigate the possible reasons for, and the impact of, this rigidity. I study a market in which a profit‐maximizing intermediary facilitates trade between buyers and sellers. The intermediary sets prices for buyers and sellers, and keeps the difference as her fee. Optimal prices increase when demand increases, that is, shifts right. If a demand increase is due to an increase in the number of ex ante symmetric buyers, then the intermediary's optimal percent fee decreases. If, instead, a demand increase is due to a reduction in the elasticity of demand, then the intermediary's optimal percent fee increases. In either case, if the intermediary keeps a constant percent fee regardless of shifts in demand, as is the case with Uber and Lyft, then surge pricing (i.e., the ratio of price during high demand to price during low demand) is amplified on one side of the market and diminished on the other side.
Recognition software successfully aids the identification of individual small‐spotted catsharks Scyliorhinus canicula during their first year of life
Authors: Hook Samantha A. , McMurray Charlotte , Ripley Daniel M. , Allen Natasha , Moritz Timo , Grunow Bianka , Shiels Holly A.
Published: October 2019

Eighteen captive small‐spotted catsharks Scyliorhinus canicula were successfully identified from hatching to 1 year of age using the free computer recognition software, I3S classic. The effect of increasing the time interval between recognition attempts on the accuracy of the software was investigated, revealing that recognition fiedelity decreases with increasing time intervals for younger (0 to 15 weeks), but not older (15 weeks onwards) sharks. Identification by I3S was validated using genetic analyses of seven microsatellite markers, revealing a 100% success rate. Thus, this non‐invasive recognition method can be used as an inexpensive and effective alternative to invasive tagging, improving animal welfare and complementing ex‐situ conservation methods.
Icariin‐induced miR‐875‐5p attenuates epithelial‐mesenchymal transition by targeting hedgehog signaling in liver fibrosis
Authors: Ye Lei , Yu Yaping , Zhao Yanping
Published: October 2019

Background

Hepatic fibrosis is the final endpoint for most chronic liver diseases and remains a significant public health problem worldwide. Icariin, a naturally occurring flavonol glucoside, has been reported to exhibit protective effects on liver injury and alleviate liver fibrosis. However, the underlying detail molecular mechanism is not fully revealed.

Methods

Mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)‐induced liver fibrosis model in mice were used as in vitro and in vivo models in this study. The expression levels of miR‐875‐5p were detected by quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR. The validation of the direct target of miR‐875‐5p was through dual‐luciferase reporter assay and western blotting assay. The cell proliferation and cell mobility were determined using MTT assay and Transwell migration assay, respectively.

Results

We found that icariin inhibited epithelial–mesenchymal transition and collagen protein section of HSCs. Icariin exerted hepatoprotective effects on mice model of CCL4‐induced liver fibrosis. Our further results revealed that miR‐875‐5p was downregulated in human cirrhosis tissues and activated murine HSCs. Icariin induced miR‐875‐5p upregulation and subsequently decreased glioma‐associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) expression through direct binding to the three prime untranslated region of GLI1 mRNA.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the potential therapeutic application of icariin for liver fibrosis management.
Factors influencing health status in older people with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Youngcharoen Phichpraorn , Saraboon Yuwadee , Aree‐Ue Suparb
Published: October 2019

Aim

To examine a causal model of health status among older people with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, correlational design was used with a convenience sample of 220 older Thai people with knee osteoarthritis (mean age 68.96 years; SD = 6.22). Participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, The Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, and the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2‐Short Form. Structural Equation Model was used to examine a hypothesized model.

Results

Using Chi‐square, hypothesized model was statistically nonsignificant. A model of health status fitted with the empirical data and explained 19.2% of variance. Pain catastrophizing had negative direct effect on self‐efficacy and health status. Pain catastrophizing also had negative indirect effect on health status through self‐efficacy. Self‐efficacy and social support had positive direct effects on health status. However, pain‐related fear had no direct or indirect effect on health status.

Conclusion

Lower level of pain catastrophizing can improve self‐efficacy. Increasing of self‐efficacy and social support can then lead to improvement on health status. This study highlighted the effect of psychosocial factors on health status. It is necessary to develop a program to minimize pain catastrophizing, improve social support, and promote self‐efficacy to improve the health status of older people with knee osteoarthritis.
Inviting Autonomy Back to the Table: The Importance of Autonomy for Healthy Relationship Functioning
Authors: Anderson Jared R.
Published: October 2019

Autonomy, or self‐determination, is a key ingredient in promoting relationship flourishing. Although autonomy has long been an important concept in the family therapy field (labeled differentiation; Family therapy in clinical practice, 1978), definitional confusions and the ascendency of attachment theory and attachment‐based clinical approaches to treating couples have relegated autonomy to a minor role at best and a caricature of rugged individualism and antirelational separateness at worst. Given recent research showing the importance of autonomy for the development of secure attachment in children and the key role autonomy plays in healthy intimate partner functioning, the concept of autonomy needs to take a more central role in our research and clinical practice with couples.
Synergistic growth inhibition mediated by dual PI3K/mTOR pathway targeting and genetic or direct pharmacological AKT inhibition in human glioblastoma models
Authors: von Achenbach Caroline , Weller Michael , Kaulich Kerstin , Gramatzki Dorothee , Zacher Angela , Fabbro Doriano , Reifenberger Guido , Szabó Emese
Published: October 2019

Molecular genetic aberrations in the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway are common in human cancers including glioblastoma, yet, novel therapeutic approaches targeting this pathway in glioblastoma have not been successful. We hypothesized that molecular profiling in combination with in vitro drug sensitivity testing allows to identify signatures associated with sensitivity or resistance to PI3K/mTOR pathway inhibition. We analyzed the molecular mechanisms determining sensitivity to PI3K/mTOR inhibition using gene silencing or pharmacological target inhibition and proliferation, clonogenicity, or spherogenicity as readouts, in human long‐term glioma cell (LTC) lines and glioma‐initiating cells (GIC). Cultured glioma cells were universally sensitive to growth inhibition induced by PQR309, a novel, dual pan‐PI3K/mTOR antagonist. Cells exhibited profound growth arrest, but little apoptotic or necrotic cell death as confirmed by electron microscopy; yet, there was evidence of senescence. Cell lines with high basal levels of phosphorylated (active) AKT, low levels of phosphorylated (inactive) protein translation repressor eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) 4E‐binding protein 1 (p4E‐BP1), and high levels of Ser9‐phosphorylated (inactive) glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (pGSK3β) were more sensitive to PQR309. Accordingly, the activity of PQR309 was synergistically enhanced by AKT gene silencing or direct pharmacological AKT inhibition. In vivo studies confirmed the anti‐glioma activity of PQR309 alone or in combination with AKT inhibition in the orthotopic LN‐229 glioma xenograft model in nude mice. These data justify to explore combined targeted therapy approaches in glioblastoma that aim at down‐regulating AKT function to enhance the therapeutic potential of dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors.

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