bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Defense Theory in an ant–plant mutualism: Extrafloral nectar as an induced defence is maximized in the most valuable plant structures
Authors: Calixto Eduardo Soares , Lange Denise , Bronstein Judith , Torezan‐Silingardi Helena Maura , Del‐Claro Kleber
Published: June 2020

Plants allocate defences in order to decrease costs and maximize benefits against herbivores. The Optimal Defense Theory (ODT) predicts that continuously expressed (i.e. constitutive) defences are expected in structures of high value, whereas defences that are expressed or that increase their expression only after damage or upon risk of damage (i.e. induced defences) are expected in structures of low value. Although there are several studies evaluating ODT predictions, few studies have successfully tested them as a way of measuring ecological investment in extrafloral nectary (EFN)‐mediated ant–plant interactions.

Here we compared extrafloral nectar production and ant attractiveness to EFNs located on vegetative versus reproductive plant structures on Qualea multiflora plants subjected to different levels of simulated herbivory. We then addressed the following predictions emerging from the ODT: (a) extrafloral nectar produced in inflorescence EFNs will have higher volumes and calories and will attract more ants than extrafloral nectar produced in leaf EFNs; (b) extrafloral nectar production (volume and calories) and ant attendance will increase after simulated herbivory in leaf EFNs but not in inflorescence EFNs; (c) higher simulated leaf herbivory will induce higher extrafloral nectar production in EFNs on leaves and (d) more attractive extrafloral nectar (higher volume and calories) will attract more ants.

Extrafloral nectar volume and calorie content, as well as ant abundance, were higher in EFNs of inflorescences compared to EFNs of leaves both before and after simulated herbivory, consistent with one of our predictions. However, EFNs on both leaves and inflorescences, not on leaves only, were induced by simulated herbivory, a pattern opposite to our prediction. Plants subjected to higher levels of leaf damage produced more and higher calorie extrafloral nectar, but showed similar ant abundance. Finally, more attractive extrafloral nectar attracted more ants.

Synthesis. Our results show that extrafloral nectar production before and after simulated herbivory, as well as ant recruitment, varies according to the plant structure on which EFNs are located. Our study is the first to show that ant recruitment via extrafloral nectar follows predictions from Optimal Defense Theory, and that the ant foraging patterns may be shaped by the plant part attacked and the level of damage it receives.
Elevated levels of VCA0117 (VasH) in response to external signals activate the type VI secretion system of Vibrio choleraeO1 El Tor A1552
Authors: Seibt Henrik , Aung Kyaw Min , Ishikawa Takahiko , Sjöström Annika , Gullberg Martin , Atkinson Gemma Catherine , Wai Sun Nyunt , Shingler Victoria
Published: June 2020

The type VI nanomachine is critical for Vibrio cholerae to establish infections and to thrive in niches co‐occupied by competing bacteria. The genes for the type VI structural proteins are encoded in one large and two small auxiliary gene clusters. VCA0117 (VasH) – a σ54‐transcriptional activator – is strictly required for functionality of the type VI secretion system since it controls production of the structural protein Hcp. While some strains constitutively produce a functional system, others do not and require specific growth conditions of low temperature and high osmolarity for expression of the type VI machinery. Here, we trace integration of these regulatory signals to the promoter activity of the large gene cluster in which many components of the machinery and VCA0117 itself are encoded. Using in vivo and in vitro assays and variants of VCA0117, we show that activation of the σ54‐promoters of the auxiliary gene clusters by elevated VCA0117 levels are all that is required to overcome the need for specialized growth conditions. We propose a model in which signal integration via the large operon promoter directs otherwise restrictive levels of VCA0117 that ultimately dictates a sufficient supply of Hcp for completion of a functional type VI secretion system.
Deliberation, Citizen Science and Covid‐19
Authors: Pearse Harry
Published: June 2020

Rather than aiming to produce more ‘rational’ or more ‘other‐regarding’ citizen judgements (the outcome of which is uncertain), deliberative democratic exercises should be re‐designed to maximise democratic participation. To do this, they must involve citizens and experts, a novel arrangement that will benefit both cohorts. For the former, a more inclusive form of deliberation will offer an opportunity to contribute to political discussion and be listened to by people with political or policy‐based authority. For the latter, it will provide a venue through which expertise can be brought to bear on democratic decision making without risk of scapegoating or politicisation. More broadly, deliberation that prioritises dialogue (over, say, opinion change) affirms the principle that political decisions reflect value judgements rather than technically ‘right’ or technically ‘wrong’ answers—judgements that are legitimate if arrived at through discussion involving the people due to be affected by the resultant policy. This article sets out the advantages of this form of deliberation—which bears some similarity to certain types of citizen science—in the context of the UK government’s responses to Covid‐19; both the confused decision making evident to date, and the forthcoming re‐opening phases that will prioritise or advantage some constituencies over others.
Women's Public Lives: Navigating the East India Company, Parliament and Courts in Early Modern England
Authors: Laursen Brock Aske , Ewen Misha
Published: June 2020

This article traces the strategies that women deployed, and the resources upon which they drew, in order to challenge the East India Company (EIC) and ultimately lay claim to property that they believed was rightfully theirs. It focuses on three women, Elizabeth Dale, Rebecka Duteil and Mary Goodal, who navigated the EIC, parliament and the courts in seventeenth‐century London to try to secure their inheritance from husbands and siblings. It offers a fresh perspective on early modern women's public lives by focusing on a wide array of agentic strategies that women employed in their encounters with various institutions. Using a range of sources, including company records, petitions, court depositions and wills, it argues that exploring women's interactions with the EIC, especially in their role as adversaries, enriches understandings of women's agency in early modern England. This article suggests that such a lens can further nuance how we understand the inherent tensions of early modern women's public lives: as inflected by global as well as local contexts and shaped by conflict as well as collaboration.
Added prognostic value of longitudinal changes of angiogenic factors in early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Peguero A , Fernandez‐Blanco L , Mazarico E , Benitez L , Gonzalez A , Youssef L , Crispi F , Hernandez S , Figueras F
Published: June 2020

Objective

To assess in women with early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia whether longitudinal changes in angiogenic factors improve the prediction of adverse outcome.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Maternity units in two Spanish hospitals.

Population

Women with diagnosis of early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

Levels of placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase (sFlt‐) and sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio were measured at admission and before delivery, and average daily change calculated. The association of longitudinal changes of angiogenic factors with the time interval to delivery and with complications was evaluated by logistic and Cox regression.

Main outcome measures

Interval to delivery and composite of adverse outcomes.

Results

We included 63 women, of which 26 (41.3%) had a complication. Longitudinal changes of sFlt‐1 were more pronounced in complicated pregnancies (median: 1047 versus 342 pg/ml/day; P = 0.04). On the multivariate analysis, the clinical risk score and sFlt‐1 at admission explained 6.2% of the uncertainty for complication; the addition of sFlt‐1 longitudinal changes improved this to 25.3% (P = 0.002). The median time from admission to delivery was 4 days (95% CI 1.6–6.04) in those in the highest quartile of sFlt‐1 longitudinal changes versus 16 days (95% CI 12.4–19.6) in the remaining women (Log‐rank test P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Longitudinal changes in sFlt‐1 maternal levels from admission for confirmed early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia add to baseline characteristics in the prediction of adverse outcome and interval to delivery.

Tweetable abstract

In early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia, longitudinal changes in sFlt‐1 levels improve the prediction of complications and interval to delivery.
COVID‐19 and Inequalities*
Authors: Blundell Richard , Costa Dias Monica , Joyce Robert , Xu Xiaowei
Published: June 2020

This paper brings together evidence from various data sources and the most recent studies to describe what we know so far about the impacts of the COVID‐19 crisis on inequalities across several key domains of life, including employment and ability to earn, family life and health. We show how these new fissures interact with existing inequalities along various key dimensions, including socio‐economic status, education, age, gender, ethnicity and geography. We find that the deep underlying inequalities and policy challenges that we already had are crucial in understanding the complex impacts of the pandemic itself and our response to it, and that the crisis does in itself have the potential to exacerbate some of these pre‐existing inequalities fairly directly. Moreover, it seems likely that the current crisis will leave legacies that will impact inequalities in the long term. These possibilities are not all disequalising, but many are.
No direct taxation without new elite representation: Industrialization and the domestic politics of taxation
Authors: EMMENEGGER PATRICK , LEEMANN LUCAS , WALTER ANDRÉ
Published: June 2020

The nineteenth century marked the founding period of modern public finance. We examine the domestic and non‐war related determinants of direct taxation in this early democratic period and in a state building context. We argue that the reasons for the expansion of direct taxation can be found in the political competition between different elite groups in the context of industrialization. Systematically differentiating between economic and political arenas, we show that intra‐elite competition in industrializing economies leads to higher levels of direct taxation only if the new economic elites are able to translate their economic power into the political arena, either through the representative system or by extra‐parliamentary means. In addition, we demonstrate that these processes are directly linked to public investments in policy areas related to the interests of new economic elites such as public education. Our analysis is based on novel subnational data from the period 1850 to 1910, enabling us to concentrate on the domestic determinants of direct taxation.
Rendezvous technique to recanalize a stapled esophagus after esophageal exclusion for salvaging concomitant esophageal and bronchial rupture due to Sengstaken Blakemore tube misplacement: A novel application of an old technique
Authors: Yam Patricia Po‐chu , Fung James Kiu‐jing , Wong Kevin Ka‐fai , Leung Siu‐kee
Published: June 2020

This is the first reported case on concomitant bronchial and esophageal rupture due to Sengstaken Blakemore tube misplacement. Patient was managed with emergency laparotomy and thoracotomy. Esophageal exclusion and esophagostomy diversion were performed. Spontaneous recanalization of the cervical esophagus was evident 1 month after operation. However, it did not occur at the distal esophagus. A combined antegrade–retrograde rendezvous technique was employed, with two endoscopes approaching from two sides of the oesophagogastric junction, under fluoroscopic guidance, the digestive tract was successfully restored without further operation. Such rendezvous technique to recanalize a stapled esophagus has never been reported. Safety issues of Sengstaken tube insertion were reviewed.
30‐day mortality following palliative radiotherapy
Authors: Kain Mollie , Bennett Hayley , Yi Ma , Robinson Bridget , James Melissa
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Patients dying a short time after receiving palliative radiation are unlikely to have received benefit and may experience harm. To monitor the potential for avoidable harm, 30‐day mortality following palliative radiation has been recommended for use as a quality indicator and the Royal College of Radiologist have recommended a rate of lower than 20%. At the Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service in Christchurch, New Zealand (CRCHS), we investigated 30‐day mortality and evaluated the prognostic value of the TEACHH model in our population.

Methods

Palliative treatments from two, two‐year periods (2012/2013 and 2016/2017) were retrospectively reviewed. We analysed 30‐day mortality and several influencing variables. Patients were divided into three groups using the TEACHH model (type of cancer, performance status, age, prior palliative chemotherapy, prior hospitalizations and hepatic metastases).

Results

There were 1744 patients; 30‐day mortality was 10% and was higher in patients with lung cancer (17% vs. 8% in non–lung cancer patients, P < 0.0001), patients having less than five fractions (13% vs. 9%, P: 0.0199) and patients in TEACHH group B/C (21% in C, 11% in B and 2% in group A, P < 0.0001). The majority of treatments (84%) used five fractions or less.

Conclusions

The mortality rate is within the suggested quality indicator, and the decreasing mortality with increasing fractionation demonstrates suitable selection of patients for longer treatment regimens. The TEACHH model can be used to increase precision in estimating prognosis, identifying patients who should not receive treatment and conversely identifying those for whom a prolonged fractionation schedule may be appropriate.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) incidence and trends vary by gender, geography, age, and subcategory based on population and hospital cancer registries in Hebei, China (2008–2017)
Authors: Li Daojuan , Xu Xiaoli , Liu Jianghui , Liang Di , Shi Jin , Li Shumei , Jin Jing , He Yutong
Published: June 2020

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has been determined to be the most lethal lung malignancy. Few studies have previously analyzed the epidemiological characteristics of SCLC in China. This study analyzed the epidemiological characteristics of SCLC aiming to provide a reference for the prevention of SCLC in Hebei Province.

Methods

The epidemiological characteristics of SCLC using lung cancer data based on population and hospital cancer registries in Hebei Province between 2008 and 2017 were analyzed.

Results

The proportion of both population‐ and hospital‐based SCLC cases displayed a significant increasing trend. Moreover, the proportion of males was higher than that for female based on population‐ and hospital‐based cases. The proportion of hospital‐based SCLC cases in counties was higher than that in cities, whereas there were no significant regional differences between cities and counties based on population. The proportion of both population‐ and hospital‐based SCLC cases decreased consistently with increasing age. There was a difference between population‐ and hospital‐based distribution of subcategories of SCLC.

Conclusions

Significant increases in the proportion of both population‐ and hospital‐based SCLC cases over recent years, particularly in males and in patients aged over 55 years, were observed. Research on the pathogenesis of SCLC in these patients and prevention is urgently required.
Understanding decay in marine calcifiers: Micro‐CT analysis of skeletal structures provides insight into the impacts of a changing climate in marine ecosystems
Authors: Fordyce Alexander J. , Knuefing Lydia , Ainsworth Tracy D. , Beeching Levi , Turner Michael , Leggat William
Published: June 2020

Calcifying organisms and their exoskeletons support some of the most diverse and economically important ecosystems in our oceans. Under a changing climate, we are beginning to see alterations to the structure and properties of these exoskeletons due to ocean acidification, warming and accelerated rates of bioerosion. Our understanding has grown as a result of using micro‐computed tomography (µCT) but its applications in marine biology have not taken full advantage of the technological development in this methodology. We present a significant advancement in the use of this method to studying decalcification in a marine calcifier.

We present a detailed workflow on best practice for µCT image processing and analysis of marine calcifiers, designed using coral skeletons subjected to acute, short‐term microbial bioerosion. This includes estimating subresolution microporosity and describing pore space morphological characteristics of macroporosity, in perforate and imperforate exoskeletons. These metrics are compared between control and bieroded samples, and are correlated with skeletal hardness as measured by nanoindentation.

Our results suggest that using subresolution microporosity analysis improves the spatiotemporal resolution of µCT data and can detect changes not seen in macroporosity, in both perforate and imperforate skeletons. In imperforate samples, the mean size and relative number of pores in the macroporous portion of the images changed significantly where total macroporosity did not. The increased number of pores and higher microporosity are both directly related to a physical weakening of the calcareous exoskeletons of imperforate corals only. In perforate corals, increased macroporosity was accompanied by an overall widening of pore spaces though this did not correlate with sample hardness.

These novel techniques complement traditional approaches and in combination demonstrate the potential for using µCT scanning to sensitively track the process of decalcification from a structural and morphological perspective. Importantly, these approaches do not necessarily rely on ultra‐high resolution (i.e. single micron) scans and so maintain the accessibility of this technology. The continued optimization of these tools for a variety of marine calcifiers will advance our understanding of the effect of climate change on marine biogenic calcified structures.
Comparison between success rates for smokers re‐treated by a smokers’ clinic and success rates for smokers treated for the first time
Authors: Stepankova Lenka , Kralikova Eva , Zvolska Kamila , Pankova Alexandra , Adamcekova Zuzana , Kuhn Matyas , Noland Derek
Published: June 2020

Aims

To compare success rates and characteristics of smokers treated a second time by a smokers’ clinic with success rates of their first treatment.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tobacco Dependence Treatment clinic in Prague, Czech Republic, between 2005 and 2017.

Participants

A total of 5225 smokers treated either once (n = 5006, single treatment sample, SS) or also second time (n = 219, re‐treated sample, RS), on average 4.47 years after the first visit.

Intervention

Smokers received intensive treatment of tobacco dependence with pharmacotherapy options. Outcomes were evaluated after 1 year. In case of failure or relapse, participants could undergo re‐treatment in the same setting at least 1 year after the start of the first treatment.

Measurements

Twelve‐month self‐reported continuous abstinence; CO‐validated (≤ 6 parts per million); number of visits; type of pharmacotherapy; mental health history; Fagerström Test for Cigarette Dependence; time between first and second treatment.

Results

The abstinence rate in the SS was 34.8% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 33.4%, 36.1%] and in the RS was 37% (95% CI = 30.6%, 43.8%) and 39.7% (95% CI = 33.2%, 45.5%) for their first and second treatments, respectively. The samples were comparable on smoking and socio‐demographic characteristics and pharmacotherapy used, but the RS in the second treatment had a higher prevalence of diagnosed mental health disorder at 39.3% (95% CI = 32.8%; 46.1%) compared with 23.7% (95% CI = 22.5%; 24.9%) in the SS. Participants who initiated their second quit attempt 1 to 2 years after the first one were less successful than those who initiated their second quit attempt later (25 versus 43%; P < 0.05). The results of the first treatment cycle were not found to be a reliable predictor for outcomes of the second cycle of treatment in univariate or multivariate logistic regression (odds ratio = 1.35, 95% CI = 0.70–2.63, P = 0.373).

Conclusion

In Prague, Czech Republic, smokers re‐attending stop‐smoking treatment more than 2 years after their previous quit attempt appear to achieve similar success rates to those being treated for the first time.
The importance of trap type, trap colour and capture liquid for catching Dendrolimus pini and their impact on by‐catch of beneficial insects
Authors: Sukovata Lidia , Dziuk Aleksander , Parratt Matthew , Bystrowski Cezary , Dainton Katrina , Polaszek Andrew , Moore Roger
Published: June 2020

Dendrolimus pini can be a serious defoliator of pine trees in some European countries. The monitoring of this insect is important, but no single standardized capture technique exists for monitoring purposes.

A range of insect trap types (delta sticky, G‐trap, Unitrap and cross‐vane Unitrap), colours (green, red and white delta traps and yellow and green cross‐vane Unitraps) and types of capture liquid (glycol and salt solutions) were tested to determine the most effective trap for D. pini monitoring. Trap colour (yellow and green) was also tested for beneficial Hymenoptera and Diptera.

The Unitraps and cross‐vane Unitraps were the most effective trap types, but the latter trap that contained glycol solution was less effective than a dry trap.

Trap colour did not have any effect on the catches of D. pini, but yellow Unitraps captured more Diptera (Phoridae and Tachinidae) and Hymenoptera (Pteromalidae, Ceraphronidae and Braconidae) than green traps. In contrast, the egg parasitoid Telenomus tetratomus preferred green traps. Overall catches of beneficial insects were relatively low, except Phoridae.

The Unitraps are recommended for the efficient monitoring of D. pini unless other factors such as trap cost or remote monitoring locations justify the use of other traps.
Translations of the Self: Moving between Objects, Memories, and Words: A Dialogue with Ruth Behar
Authors: Melian‐Zamora Rita Elena , Behar Ruth
Published: June 2020

With a central interest in translation as an inherent condition of subjects in contexts of migration, this article encourages a dialogue between ethnographic forms of expression and studies on translation. My exploration of the links between anthropology and translation, as well as their visual and poetic contours, comes through a conversation with Ruth Behar, a writer‐anthropologist whose work is deeply rooted in several modes of translation, both through and beyond words, as she reflects upon diasporic identities. Through the critical reading of her observations, I hope to offer fresh insights into textual and visual possibilities of translation in anthropological writing, as well as provide an understanding of the complex relationship between translation, language, and the self‐other nexus. More broadly, these reflections will contribute to a wider multimodal and multidisciplinary engagement of anthropology with social studies of identity, literary studies, comparative literature, poetic anthropology, visual semiotics, multisemiotic literacy, paratranslation, and other sciences of language. [translation, ethnographic writing, language, multimodality, Ruth Behar]
Apnoeic oxygenation in paediatric anaesthesia: a narrative review
Authors: Lyons C. , Callaghan M.
Published: June 2020

Apnoeic oxygenation refers to oxygenation in the absence of any patient or ventilator effort to move the lungs. This phenomenon was first described in humans in the mid‐20th century but has seen renewed interest in the last decade following the demonstration of apnoeic oxygenation with low‐flow, and subsequently high‐flow, nasal oxygen. This narrative review summarises our understanding of apnoeic oxygenation in the paediatric population. We examine the evidence supporting oxygenation via tracheal tube, modified laryngoscopes and nasal cannulae. The evidence for prolongation of safe apnoea time at induction of anaesthesia is also appraised. We explore the capacity for carbon dioxide clearance, flow rate selection with high‐flow nasal oxygen and complications associated with the technique. It remains uncertain whether apnoeic oxygenation in paediatric patients results in a meaningful clinical benefit compared with standard care for outcomes such as the number of tracheal intubation attempts or the incidence of hypoxaemia. In particular, the role of apnoeic oxygenation in paediatric difficult airway management is unclear as this has not been the targeted focus of any published research to date.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in severe osteoarthritis: a crossover comparison of four exercise modalities*
Authors: Roxburgh B. H. , Campbell H. A. , Cotter J. D. , Reymann U. , Williams M. J. A. , Gwynne‐Jones D. , Thomas K. N.
Published: June 2020

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing is performed increasingly for cardiorespiratory fitness assessment and pre‐operative risk stratification. Lower limb osteoarthritis is a common comorbidity in surgical patients, meaning traditional cycle ergometry‐based cardiopulmonary exercise testing is difficult. The purpose of this study was to compare cardiopulmonary exercise testing variables and subjective responses in four different exercise modalities. In this crossover study, 15 patients with osteoarthritis scheduled for total hip or knee arthroplasty (mean (SD) age 68 (7) years; body mass index 31.4 (4.1) kg.m‐2) completed cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a treadmill, elliptical cross‐trainer, cycle and arm ergometer. Mean (SD) peak oxygen consumption was 20‐30% greater on the lower limb modalities (treadmill 21.5 (4.6) (p < 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer (21.2 (4.1) (p < 0.001); and cycle ergometer (19.4 (4.2) ml.min−1.kg−1 (p = 0.001), respectively) than on the arm ergometer (15.7 (3.7) ml.min‐1.kg‐1). Anaerobic threshold was 25‐50% greater on the lower limb modalities (treadmill 13.5 (3.1) (p < 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer 14.6 (3.0) (p < 0.001); and cycle ergometer 10.7 (2.9) (p = 0.003)) compared with the arm ergometer (8.4 (1.7) ml.min−1.kg−1). The median (95%CI) difference between pre‐exercise and peak‐exercise pain scores was greater for tests on the treadmill (2.0 (0.0‐5.0) (p = 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer (3.0 (2.0‐4.0) (p = 0.001); and cycle ergometer (3.0 (1.0‐5.0) (p = 0.001)), compared with the arm ergometer (0.0 (0.0‐1.0) (p = 0.406)). Despite greater peak exercise pain, cardiopulmonary exercise testing modalities utilising the lower limbs affected by osteoarthritis elicited higher peak oxygen consumption and anaerobic threshold values compared with arm ergometry.
The usefulness of non‐invasive co‐oximetry haemoglobin measurement for screening pre‐operative anaemia
Authors: Ke Y. H. , Hwang K. Y. , Thin T. N. , Sim Y. E. , Abdullah H. R.
Published: June 2020

Pre‐operative anaemia (haemoglobin < 13.0 g.dl−1) is a modifiable peri‐operative risk‐factor. This is screened for using formal laboratory testing. A non‐invasive finger‐probe sensor that can accurately measure haemoglobin is a possible alternative. This study considers the accuracy of non‐invasive haemoglobin measurement using the Rad‐67™ Rainbow (Masimo Corp., Irvine, CA, USA) compared with formal laboratory testing and its usefulness in detecting pre‐operative anaemia. A total of 392 patients had measurements taken for non‐invasive haemoglobin and perfusion index values using the Rad‐67 Rainbow, alongside further peri‐operative parameters and a formal laboratory haemoglobin test. Bland–Altman and sensitivity analysis showed that the limits of agreement between non‐invasive and formal laboratory haemoglobin testing were between −1.95 g.dl−1 and 2.23 g.dl−1 (p < 0.001). The overall performance of non‐invasive haemoglobin measurement was better in men than women (ROC 91.1% vs. 78.2%) and less biased in men, mean −0.08 (SD 1.09, 95%Cl −0.23–0.07) compared with women (mean 0.38 (SD 0.99, 95%CI 0.24–0.52)). Pre‐operative anaemia was more prevalent in women than men (50.3% vs. 14.4%). The sensitivity of non‐invasive anaemia detection (haemoglobin < 13 g.dl−1) was 66% for women and 52% for men. A non‐invasive haemoglobin value of 14.0 g.dl−1 had an overall 91% sensitivity for detecting pre‐operative anaemia (82% in men and 93% in women). The Rad‐67 Rainbow is inadequate for the estimation of formal laboratory haemoglobin and lacks sensitivity for detecting pre‐operative anaemia, especially in women. Further advancement in technology and accuracy is needed before it can be recommended as a routine pre‐operative screening test.
Electrocardiographic characteristics of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias based on anatomy
Authors: Xiong Yulong , Zhu Hongling
Published: June 2020

Idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia (IVA) is a term used to describe a spectrum of ventricular arrhythmia without structural heart disease (SHD). IVAs contain premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), nonsustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT), and sustained VT. Electrocardiography is a fundamental and important tool to diagnose and localize IVAs. More detailed, IVAs originating from different origins exhibit characterized ECGs due to their specific anatomic backgrounds. As catheter ablation becomes widely used to eliminate these arrhythmias, its high success rate is based on accurate localization of their origins. Therefore, these ECG characteristics show great importance for precise localization of their origins and subsequently successful ablation. This review aims to sum up ECG characteristics of IVAs based on anatomy and give brief introduction of mechanisms and treatment of IVAs.
Worst lead ST deviation and resolution of ST elevation at one hour for prediction of myocardial salvage, infarct size, and microvascular obstruction in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Stensjøen Anne Line , Hommerstad Anders , Halvorsen Sigrun , Arheden Håkan , Engblom Henrik , Erlinge David , Larsen Alf‐Inge , Sejersten Ripa Maria , Clemmensen Peter , Atar Dan , Hall Trygve S.
Published: June 2020

Background

ECG changes after revascularization predicts improved outcome for patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Worst lead residual (WLR) ST deviation and resolution of worst lead ST elevation (rST elevation) are simple measures that can be obtained early after PCI. The objective of the current study was to investigate whether simple ECG measures, obtained one hour following PCI, could predict cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)‐derived myocardial salvage index (MSI), infarct size (IS), and microvascular obstruction (MVO) in patients with STEMI included in the MITOCARE trial.

Methods

The MITOCARE trial included 165 patients with a first‐time STEMI presenting within six hours of symptom onset. The current analysis included patients that had an ECG recorded at baseline and one hour after PCI and underwent CMR imaging after 3–5 days. Independent core laboratories determined WLR ST deviation, rST elevation, and the CMR variables (MSI, IS, and MVO).

Results

83 patients with a mean age of 61 years were included. 83.1% were males and 41% had anterior infarctions. In logistic regression models, WLR ST deviation was a statistically significant predictor of IS (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3–3.8) and MVO (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5–5.2), but not of MSI (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.5–1.2). rST elevation showed a trend toward a significant association with IS (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–1.0), but not with the other CMR variables.

Conclusion

WLR ST deviation one hour after PCI was a predictor of IS and MVO. WLR ST deviation, a measure easily obtained from ECGs following PCI, may provide important prognostic information in patients with STEMI.
Predicting survival in non‐functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Tan Qing‐Quan , Wang Xing , Yang Le , Chen Yong‐Hua , Tan Chun‐Lu , Ke Neng‐Wen , Liu Xu‐Bao
Published: June 2020

Background

Owing to the limited prevalence and heterogeneity, it is difficult to predict long‐term survival of non‐functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NF‐PNETs).This study aimed to evaluate the factors predicting disease‐specific survival (DSS) for well‐differentiated NF‐PNETs.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively from 256 patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours who underwent surgical resection between January 2009 and December at our institution. Of these, 103 NF‐PNETs (40%) were identified for analysis.

Results

Of the 103 patients, 54 were male (52%) and the mean age was 52 years (range 21–75 years). Most patients (60/103, 58%) in our series were symptomatic. Seventeen patients (16%) died during follow‐up, with a median period of 47 months. There were 88 patients with well‐differentiated tumours and 10 of them (10/88, 11%) died of tumour progression. Median DSS after primary resection was 58.8 months (range 16–122 months). Multivariate analysis identified age >52 years (P = 0.038) and tumour grade G2 (P = 0.001) as statistically significant predictors of DSS. There was no association between gender, tumour size, symptoms, surgical procedure, severe complications, tumour location, tumour size, resection margin, positive lymph nodes and vascular invasion with DSS.

Conclusion

Tumour grade, age, presence of symptoms and distant metastasis were related to poor DSS of NF‐PNETs. Age >52 years and tumour grade G2 might be independent predictors of poor DSS for patients with well‐differentiated NF‐PNETs.
Promoting attachment between parents and neonates despite the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tscherning Charlotte , Sizun Jacques , Kuhn Pierre
Published: June 2020

Social distancing is the only option available during the COVID‐19 pandemic until a vaccine is developed. However, this is having a major impact on human relationships and bonding between parents and neonates is a major concern. Separation during this health emergency could have lifelong consequences for offspring, and there are even greater concerns if newborn infants are sick or vulnerable and need intensive care. We look at how bonding can be safely supported and maintained without risking infecting neonates, by comparing the international guidelines and proposing safe actions within those frameworks.
The problem is the solution: Can permaculture management regenerate social economy enterprises?
Authors: Lapoutte Alexandrine
Published: June 2020

We consider the degeneration of social economy enterprises (SEEs) and develop a thesis that SEE regeneration may be inspired by living systems. Within the paradigm of living organizations, we propose an approach inspired by permaculture. This study's purpose is to understand how SEEs might apply permaculture principles for their regeneration. We identify the main degeneration issues in SEEs. We then present the permaculture approach through its theoretical background, application to living organizations, and core design principles. Finally, we show how permaculture relates to management models appropriate for alternative organizations, and we underline specific links with degeneration issues in SEEs. We make a theoretical contribution by binding two distinct conversations: permaculture management and SEE degeneration. This work also provides an original framework for future empirical research.
Editorial: gut microbiota profile in patients with autoimmune hepatitis—a clue for adjunctive probiotic therapy?
Authors: Granito Alessandro , Muratori Paolo , Muratori Luigi
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Liwinski et al and Liwinski and Shcramm papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15754 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15819.
Editorial: no man’s oesophagus is an island
Authors: Ravi Karthik , Katzka David A.
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Moosavi et al and Liwinski and Shcramm papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15758 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15831.
Letter: bone fracture risk among older long‐term users of proton pump inhibitors. Authors’ reply
Authors: Schnoll‐Sussman Felice , Katz Philip O.
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ghosh et al and Sugiyama papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15522 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15763.
Editorial: transperineal ultrasound in addition to a transabdominal ultrasound in ulcerative colitis—one more arrow in the quiver of non‐invasive diagnostics
Authors: Deepak Parakkal , Itani Malak
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Sagami et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15767 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15871.
Editorial: diagnostic precision of iron deficiency in inflammatory bowel disease. Authors’ reply
Authors: Daude Sébastien , Gastin Isabelle , Peyrin‐Biroulet Laurent
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Daude et al and Detlie and Jahnsen papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15739 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15809.
Editorial: the road to elimination of viral hepatitis–another promising real‐world experience
Authors: Abdel‐Daim Mohamed M.
Published: June 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Drysdale et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15609.
The effects of vilaprisan on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of a combined oral contraceptive—A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Schultze‐Mosgau Marcus‐Hillert , Schütt Barbara , Draeger Corinna , Casjens Manuela , Loewen Stephanie , Zimmermann Torsten , Rohde Beate
Published: June 2020

Aims

The primary objective was to explore whether the suppression of ovarian activity induced by a combined oral contraceptive (COC) is influenced by the simultaneous intake of the selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) vilaprisan (VPR).

Methods

In this exploratory randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group study, 71 healthy premenopausal women were randomized (1:1) to receive either 2 mg/d VPR or placebo for 3 months. Concomitantly, a COC (0.15 mg levonorgestrel, 0.03 mg ethinyloestradiol) was administered in a cyclic regimen. Ovarian activity (Hoogland score based on follicle size and hormone concentrations), cervical function (Insler score), bleeding pattern and endometrial thickness/histology were assessed before treatment, in treatment cycle 3 and during follow‐up.

Results

The known COC‐driven suppression of ovarian activity was mildly affected by VPR. COC+VPR group: 22, 0 and 6% of the subjects had Hoogland scores of 4 (active follicle‐like structures), 5 or 6 (ovulation). COC+placebo group: 14% of the subjects had a score of 4 and none a score of 5 or 6 (Bayesian analysis for Hoogland score = 4, median difference in response rate: 7.5%; 90% credible interval [−8.5; 23.5%]). COC effects on cervical function were moderately affected (mucus more sperm permeable under COC+VPR). COC withdrawal bleeding, in contrast, was absent in 81% of the subjects receiving COC+VPR vs 0% receiving COC+placebo.

Conclusion

The SPRM VPR interfered with the pharmacodynamic effects of the COC. Therefore, full contraceptive effectiveness cannot be assumed without final judgement by a Pearl index study. Women on SPRMs should be advised to use nonhormonal contraception methods.
Breaking the Law to Ensure Order: The Case of Tijuana (2007–2012)
Authors: Passos Anaís M.
Published: June 2020

This paper explores how state agents and civilians justify human rights violations when the military perform police tasks. Based on a set of interviews and documents, it analyses the actions of the armed forces and the police during a military‐led operation that targeted drug trafficking organisations in Tijuana. In a context of limited civilian control over the armed forces and the police, the paper identifies two discourses that supported the illegal action of state agents: the construction of a foreign other who does not belong to society and the need to use violence to accomplish a greater good.
Novel enhanced GFP‐positive congenic inbred strain establishment and application of tumor‐bearing nude mouse model
Authors: Lan Qing , Chen Yanming , Dai Chungang , Li Shenggang , Fei Xifeng , Dong Jun , Shen Yanhua , Dai Xingliang , Lu Zhaohui , Liu Bing , Wang Qilong , Wang Haiyang , Zhou Zhengyu , Ji Xiaoyan , Wang Zhimin , Huang Qiang
Published: June 2020

Transgenic GFP gene mice are widely used. Given the unique advantages of immunodeficient animals in the field of oncology research, we aim to establish a nude mouse inbred strain that stably expresses enhanced GFP (EGFP) for use in transplanted tumor microenvironment (TME) research. Female C57BL/6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) mice were backcrossed with male BALB/c nude mice for 11 generations. The genotype and phenotype of novel inbred strain Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) were identified by biochemical loci detection, skin transplantation and flow cytometry. PCR and fluorescence spectrophotometry were performed to evaluate the relative expression of EGFP in different parts of the brain. Red fluorescence protein (RFP) gene was stably transfected into human glioma stem cells (GSC), SU3, which were then transplanted intracerebrally or ectopically into Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) mice. Cell co–expression of EGFP and RFP in transplanted tissues was further analyzed with the Live Cell Imaging System (Cell’R, Olympus) and FISH. The inbred strain Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) shows different levels of EGFP expression in brain tissue. The hematological and immune cells of the inbred strain mice were close to those of nude mice. EGFP was stably expressed in multiple sites of Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) mice, including brain tissue. With the dual‐fluorescence tracing transplanted tumor model, we found that SU3 induced host cell malignant transformation in TME, and tumor/host cell fusion. In conclusion, EGFP is differentially and widely expressed in brain tissue of Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP), which is an ideal model for TME investigation. With Foxn1nu.B6‐Tg(CAG‐EGFP) mice, our research demonstrated that host cell malignant transformation and tumor/host cell fusion play an important role in tumor progression.
Tetrahedral DNA nanostructures as drug delivery and bioimaging platforms in cancer therapy
Authors: Duangrat Ratchanee , Udomprasert Anuttara , Kangsamaksin Thaned
Published: June 2020

Structural DNA nanotechnology enables DNA to be used as nanomaterials for novel nanostructure construction with unprecedented functionalities. Artificial DNA nanostructures can be designed and generated with precisely controlled features, resulting in its utility in bionanotechnological and biomedical applications. A tetrahedral DNA nanostructure (TDN), the most popular DNA nanostructure, with high stability and simple synthesis procedure, is a promising candidate as nanocarriers in drug delivery and bioimaging platforms, particularly in precision medicine as well as diagnosis for cancer therapy. Recent evidence collectively indicated that TDN successfully enhanced cancer therapeutic efficiency both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we summarize the development of TDN and highlight various aspects of TDN applications in cancer therapy based on previous reports, including anticancer drug loading, photodynamic therapy, therapeutic oligonucleotides, bioimaging platforms, and other molecules and discuss a perspective in opportunities and challenges for future TDN‐based nanomedicine.
Novel cucurmosin‐based immunotoxin targeting programmed cell death 1‐ligand 1 with high potency against human tumor in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhang Caiyun , Xiong Jiani , Lan Yinxiang , Wu Jingyu , Wang Chengyan , Huang Zhihong , Lin Jizhen , Xie Jieming
Published: June 2020

Immunotoxins are Ab‐cytotoxin chimeric molecules with mighty cytotoxicity. Programmed cell death 1‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1), is a transmembrane protein expressed mainly in inflammatory tumor tissues and plays a pivotal role in immune escape and tumor progression. Although PD‐L1 immune checkpoint therapy has been successful in some cases, many patients have not benefited enough due to primary/secondary resistance. In order to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of anti‐PD‐L1 mAb, we used durvalumab as the payload and CUS245C, a type I ribosome‐inactivating protein isolated from Cucurbita moschata, as the toxin moiety, to construct PD‐L1‐specific immunotoxin (named D‐CUS245C) through the engineered cysteine residue. In vitro, D‐CUS245C selectively killed PD‐L1+ tumor cells. In vivo studies also showed that D‐CUS245C had obvious antitumor effect on PD‐L1+ human xenograft tumors in nude mice. In conclusion, in the combination of the toxin with mAb, this study developed a new immunotoxin targeting PD‐L1, emphasizing a novel and promising treatment strategy and providing a valuable way to optimize cancer immunotherapy.
Serum exosomal microRNA‐766‐3p expression is associated with poor prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Shuang , Lin Zheng , Zheng Zerong , Rao Wenqing , Lin Yulan , Chen Huilin , Xie QianWen , Chen Yuanmei , Hu Zhijian
Published: June 2020

The aim was to analyze the association between exosomal microRNA (miR)‐766‐3p expression levels in serum and the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The serum global exosomal miRNA expression of ESCC patients was measured by microRNA microarray. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to analyze the expression levels of candidate miRNAs in both serum and tissues from ESCC patients. Wilcoxon tests were applied to evaluate clinical characteristics and their association with serum levels of exosomal miR‐766‐3p. A Cox regression model was used to identify prognostic factors. The effects of miR‐766‐3p expression on cell migration and invasion were examined using Transwell assays, and CCK‐8 assays were carried out to measure cell proliferation. The TNM stage was associated with high serum exosomal miR‐766‐3p levels of ESCC patients (P = .030). Higher serum exosomal miR‐766‐3p expression levels were associated with poor prognosis (for overall survival, hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI)], 2.21 [1.00, 4.87]; for disease‐free survival, HR [95% CI], 2.15 [1.01, 4.59]). However, we found no association between the expression of miR‐766‐3p in tissue and ESCC prognosis. In vitro results showed that miR‐766‐3p promotes cell migration and invasion, but not cell proliferation. By using dual‐luciferase reporter assay, HOXA13 was confirmed as a direct target gene of miR‐766‐3p. The ESCC patients with highly expressed serum exosomal miR‐766‐3p had a significantly worse survival. Therefore, serum exosomal miR‐766‐3p could serve as a prognostic marker for the assessment of ESCC.