bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Alcohol‐Related Dysmorphic Features
Authors: Bandoli Gretchen , Jones Ken , Wertelecki Wladimir , Yevtushok Lyubov , Zymak‐Zakutnya Natalya , Granovska Iryna , Plotka Larysa , Chambers Christina ,   The CIFASD
Published: August 2020

Background

In animal models, it is possible to induce different alcohol‐related dysmorphic abnormalities based on the timing of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Our objective was to assess whether patterns of PAE differentially predict alcohol‐related dysmorphic features in 415 infants.

Methods

We analyzed a prospective pregnancy cohort in western Ukraine enrolled between 2008 and 2014. Five distinct trajectories were previously identified to summarize PAE: (i) minimal/no PAE (n = 253), (ii) low/moderate PAE with reduction early in gestation (n = 78), (iii) low/moderate sustained PAE (n = 20), (iv) moderate/high PAE with reduction early in gestation (n = 45), and (v) high sustained PAE (n = 19). A dysmorphology examination of body size, 3 cardinal, and 15 noncardinal dysmorphic features was performed at approximately 6 to 12 months of age. A modified dysmorphology score was created based on previously published weights. Univariate comparisons were made between each dysmorphic feature and trajectory group. Features that differed by trajectory group were assessed in multivariable analyses. Models were adjusted for maternal age, prenatal vitamin use, socioeconomic status, smoking, and child’s age at dysmorphology examination, with censoring weights for losses to follow‐up.

Results

The 3 highest trajectories predicted total dysmorphology score, with larger effects in sustained exposure groups. Cardinal features: The 3 highest trajectories were each associated with a 2‐ to 3‐fold increased risk of having 2 + cardinal facial features. When assessed individually, there were no consistent associations between the individual trajectories and each cardinal feature. Noncardinal features: The 3 highest trajectories were associated with increased risk of hypotelorism. Only the highest trajectory was associated with heart murmur. The highest trajectory predicted <10th centile for sex and age on height, weight, and head circumference; and moderate/high with reduction trajectory also predicted height.

Conclusions

While we did not observe differential results based on specific trajectories of exposure, findings support the wide range of dysmorphic features associated with PAE, particularly at high and sustained levels.
Human‐induced shifts in habitat use and behaviour of a marine predator: the effects of bait provisioning in the blacktip reef shark
Authors: Mourier J. , Claudet J. , Planes S.
Published: August 2020

While the negative effects of consumptive pressures on marine predators are well established, the effects of increasing non‐consumptive activities such as wildlife tourism are still understudied. As such, the long‐term effects of the provision of bait on shark behaviour are still unclear. Here, we assessed the effects of provisioning using a Control‐Impact design on the spatial use and level of residency of the blacktip reef shark Carcharhinus melanopterus over a 2‐year period. We used effect sizes to model the relative changes in residency between provisioning and non‐provisioning sites. Sharks showed a high degree of residency and significant changes in their habitat use which persisted overnight while the activity ceased. We suggest that provisioning activities can affect species with high level of residency such as the blacktip reef shark. Further research is needed to better understand how these behavioural modifications can alter the fitness of this species. It is important to adapt shark provisioning activities to limit the induced changes in habitat use.
Age‐friendly care for older adults within rural Australian health systems: An integrative review
Authors: Winterton Rachel , Hodgkin Suzanne , Clune Samantha Jane , Brasher Kathleen
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To identify the core elements of interventions and models that facilitate age‐friendly care for older adults within rural Australian health systems, and assess the extent to which these align with core elements of the Institute for Health Improvement's (IHI) Age‐Friendly Health Systems 4Ms Model.

Methods

Peer‐reviewed journal articles examining core elements of Australian rural geriatric care models were collected and analysed using an integrative review methodology.

Results

Identified models and interventions addressed all four core elements of the IHI model—what matters, medications, mobility and mentation. There was more evidence relating to mobility and mentation, with lesser evidence relating to medications and what matters. A series of core elements not aligned with the model were also identified.

Conclusion

The IHI 4Ms Model appears to be applicable in the rural Australian context. More high‐quality, systematic evidence is needed to investigate the core elements of age‐friendly care across diverse rural contexts.
City Government Activists and the Rights of Undocumented Immigrants: Fostering Urban Citizenship within the Confines of US Federalism
Authors: de Graauw Els
Published: August 2020

With the US federal government more aggressive in its efforts to find, detain, and deport undocumented immigrants, certain government officials in American cities have promoted urban citizenship for undocumented immigrants in their jurisdictions. Often acting on demands from community organisations, these activist city officials have developed policies and practices that include undocumented immigrants in public service provision, formal rights protections, and democratic participation modes. Drawing on scholarship on urban citizenship, urban politics, and multi‐level governance, this article analyses how we can understand these officials’ actions in a system where the federal government has monopoly power over immigration and citizenship matters. Based on the recent experiences of New York City and San Francisco, this article shows that government activists in these cities have promoted urban citizenship for undocumented immigrants by pushing against the confines of US federalism while also reaffirming traditional understandings of national citizenship, thus practicing disruption and conformity simultaneously.
Ageing and glaucoma progression of the retinal nerve fibre layer using spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography analysis
Authors: Öhnell Hanna Maria , Heijl Anders , Bengtsson Boel
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To compare the effects of ageing and glaucoma progression on the thickness of the circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (cpRNFL) and to evaluate the performance of a set of optical coherence tomography (OCT) progression analyses.

Methods

The cpRNFL was measured twice by OCT at each of two visits made 10 years apart in 69 healthy individuals and 49 glaucoma patients. Both visits also included Humphrey 24‐2 SITA standard testing. The change in cpRNFL thickness was analysed by linear regression, and a sub‐analysis was performed on glaucoma patients with a perimetric mean deviation better than −10 dB at the first visit. The proportion of individuals whose OCT progression analyses indicated progression was also evaluated for the same groups.

Results

The average cpRNFL thickness deteriorated by a mean of −0.16 μm/year in the healthy cohort, increased by 0.03 μm/year in the glaucoma cohort, and deteriorated by −0.24 μm/year in eyes with less severe glaucoma; there were no statistically significant differences between the groups. For 17 (30%) of 56 healthy individuals, at least one of the three different OCT progression analyses incorrectly indicated progression.

Conclusions

No significant differences in change of cpRNFL thickness between visits were found when comparing healthy subjects with glaucoma patients. Also, further cpRNFL thinning was not observed in glaucomatous eyes in which at least one‐third of the visual field had been lost. The OCT progression analyses generated a relatively high proportion of false positives. Using OCT for glaucoma follow‐up may not be entirely straightforward.
Nitrate and nitrite‐based therapy to attenuate cardiovascular remodelling in arterial hypertension
Authors: Guimaraes Danielle A. , Batista Rose I. M. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: August 2020

Hypertension is a highly prevalent disease marked by vascular and cardiac maladaptive remodelling induced mainly by renin‐angiotensin system activation followed by oxidative stress. Here, we briefly describe these damages and review the current evidence supporting a potential role for nitrate and nitrite as antihypertensive molecules that act via nitric oxide (NO) formation–dependent and NO formation–independent mechanisms and how nitrate/nitrite inhibits cardiovascular remodelling in hypertension. The renin‐angiotensin system activation and oxidative stress converge to activate proteases involved in cardiovascular remodelling in hypertension. Besides these proteases, several investigations have demonstrated that reduced endogenous NO bioavailability is a central pathological event in hypertension. In this regard, nitrate/nitrite, long considered inert products of NO, is now known as physiological molecules able to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients and in different experimental models of hypertension. These effects are associated with the formation of NO and other NO‐related molecules, which could induce S‐nitrosylation of target proteins. However, it remains unclear whether S‐nitrosylation is an essential mechanism for the anti‐remodelling effects of nitrate/nitrite in hypertension. Moreover, nitrate/nitrite produces antioxidant effects associated with the inhibition of signalling pathways involved in cardiovascular remodelling. Together, these findings may help to establish nitrate and nitrite as effective therapies in hypertension‐induced cardiovascular remodelling.
Vocabularies of social influence: Managing the moral accountability of influencing another
Authors: Huma Bogdana , Stokoe Elizabeth , Sikveland Rein Ove
Published: August 2020

While there are many definitions and conceptual accounts of ‘persuasion’ and other forms of social influence, social scientists lack empirical insight into how and when people actually use terms like ‘persuade’, ‘convince’, ‘change somebody's mind’ – what we call the vocabularies of social influence – in actual social interaction. We collected instances of the spontaneous use of these and other social influence terms (such as ‘schmoozing’ and ‘hoodwinking’) in face‐to‐face and telephone conversations across multiple domestic and institutional settings. The recorded data were transcribed and analysed using discursive psychology and conversation analysis with a focus on the actions accomplished in and through the use of social influence terms. We found that when speakers use 'persuading' – but not 'convincing' or 'changing somebody’s mind' – it is in the service of orienting to the moral accountability of influencing others. The specificity with which social actors deploy these terms demonstrates the continued importance of developing our understandings of the meaning of words – especially psychological ones – via their vernacular use by ordinary people in the first instance, rather than have psychologists reify, operationalize, and build an architecture for social psychology without paying attention to what people actually do with the ‘psychological thesaurus’.
The (in)compatibility of identities: Understanding gender differences in work–life conflict through the fit with leaders
Authors: Morgenroth Thekla , Ryan Michelle K. , Rink Floor , Begeny Christopher
Published: August 2020

Women’s concerns about work–life balance are cited as a key factor underlying their continued underrepresentation in particular domains and roles. This gendered pattern is often attributed to factors in the home, such as women’s disproportionate share of domestic work and childcare responsibilities. We offer an additional explanation that focuses on workplace identities. Across four studies, we demonstrate that perceptions of work–life balance are not only a matter of balancing time, but also a matter of balancing identity, and that the availability of attainable leaders plays a key role in determining these processes. More specifically, a survey study (Study 1, N = 1223) among participants working in a historically male‐dominated profession shows that gender differences in work–life balance perceptions are, in part, explained by women’s perceived lack of fit with leaders and, in turn, their perceptions of incompatibility between who they are at home and who they are at work. In Studies 2 (N = 207), 3a (N = 209), and 3b (N = 191), we demonstrate that gender differences in anticipated work–life balance can be ameliorated through exposure to attainable female leaders. These findings have implications for organizations that seek to recruit and retain women and demonstrate that issues of identity are crucial for facilitating work–life balance.
The nation in context: How intergroup relations shape the discursive construction of identity continuity and discontinuity
Authors: Obradović Sandra , Bowe Mhairi
Published: August 2020

The perceived collective continuity (PCC) of a national identity serves as a crucial source of stability and self‐esteem for group members. Recent work has explored the consequences of perceived continuity when the meaning of a nation’s past is seen in a negative light, and the challenges this brings for the negotiation of a positive identity in the present, signalling the potential value of perceived discontinuity The current paper extends this literature by examining the role of intergroup relations in the construction of both collective continuities and discontinuities. Through analysing the discursive management of national identity in nine focus groups in a post‐conflict context (Serbia, N = 67), we reveal how the tensions between continuity and discontinuity are embedded within a broader discussion of the nation’s relationship with relevant national outgroups across its history. The findings contribute to theoretical knowledge on the interlinking of national identity and PCC by illustrating the ways in which intergroup relations of the past shape the extent to which continuity is seen as desirable or undesirable. We argue that despite the psychological merits of collective continuity, discontinuity can become attractive and useful when there is limited space to challenge how a nation’s history is remembered and the valence given to the past. The paper concludes by offering an account of how social and political contexts can influence the nature, functions, and valence of PCC within national identities.
Elevated preoperative C‐reactive protein is associated with renal functional decline and non‐cancer mortality in surgically treated renal cell carcinoma: analysis from the INternational Marker Consortium for Renal Cancer (INMARC)
Authors: Cotta Brittney H. , Meagher Margaret F. , Patil Dattatraya , Saito Kazutaka , Patel Sunil H. , Patel Devin N. , Miller Nathan , Dutt Raksha , Keiner Cathrine , Bradshaw Aaron W. , Wan Fang , Eldefrawy Ahmed , Yasuda Yosuke , Fujii Yasuhisa , Master Viraj , Derweesh Ithaar H.
Published: August 2020

Objective

To investigate association of preoperative C‐reactive protein (CRP) and non‐cancer mortality (NCM) in a cohort of patients undergoing surgery for localised renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Patients and Methods

Retrospective multicentre analysis of patients surgically treated for clinical Stage 1–2 RCC from 2006 to 2017, excluding all cases of cancer‐specific mortality. Descriptive analyses were obtained between the pre‐treatment normal‐CRP (≤5 mg/L) and elevated‐CRP (>5 mg/L) groups. The primary outcome was NCM. The secondary outcomes included progression to de novo chronic kidney disease Stages 3–4 (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of <60, <45, and <30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Multivariable analyses (MVA) were performed to assess for risk factors associated with functional decline and NCM, and Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to obtain survival estimates for outcomes.

Results

A total of 1987 patients who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy were analysed (normal‐CRP group, n = 963; elevated‐CRP group, n = 1024). Groups were similar in age (59 vs 60 years, P = 0.079). An elevated CRP was more frequent in males (36.8% vs 27.8%, P < 0.001), African‐Americans (22.6% vs 2.9%, P < 0.001), and in those with a higher median body mass index (30 vs 25 kg/m2, P < 0.001) and larger median tumour size (4.5 vs 3.3 cm, P < 0.001). On MVA, an elevated CRP was independently associated with development of de novo eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (hazard ratio [HR] 1.32, P = 0.015), <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 1.41, P = 0.023) and <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (odds ratio 2.23, P < 0.001). The MVA for factors associated with NCM demonstrated increasing age (HR 1.06, P < 0.001), preoperative elevated CRP (HR 2.18, P < 0.001) and an eGFR of <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 1.16; P = 0.021) as independent risk factors. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed significantly higher 5‐year NCM in the elevated‐CRP group vs the normal‐CRP group (98% vs 80%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Pre‐treatment elevated CRP was independently associated with both progressive renal functional decline and NCM in patients undergoing surgery for Stage 1–2 RCC. Patients with elevated CRP and Stage 1 and 2 RCC may be considered as having indication for nephron‐sparing strategies, which may be prioritised if oncologically appropriate.
Clinical impact of a cancer genomic profiling test using an in‐house comprehensive targeted sequencing system
Authors: Hayashi Hideyuki , Tanishima Shigeki , Fujii Kyoko , Mori Ryo , Okada Chihiro , Yanagita Emmy , Shibata Yuka , Matsuoka Ryosuke , Amano Toraji , Yamada Takahiro , Yabe Ichiro , Kinoshita Ichiro , Komatsu Yoshito , Dosaka‐Akita Hirotoshi , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: August 2020

Precision medicine is a promising strategy for cancer treatment. In this study, we developed an in‐house clinical sequencing system to perform a comprehensive cancer genomic profiling test as a clinical examination and analyzed the utility of this system. Genomic DNA was extracted from tumor tissues and peripheral blood cells collected from 161 patients with different stages and types of cancer. A comprehensive targeted amplicon exome sequencing for 160 cancer‐related genes was performed using next‐generation sequencing (NGS). The sequencing data were analyzed using an original bioinformatics pipeline, and multiple cancer‐specific gene alterations were identified. The success rate of our test was 99% (160/161), while re‐biopsy was required for 24% (39/161) of the cases. Potentially actionable and actionable gene alterations were detected in 91% (145/160) and 46% (73/160) of the patients, respectively. The actionable gene alterations were frequently detected in PIK3CA (9%), ERBB2 (8%), and EGFR (4%). High tumor mutation burden (TMB) (≥10 mut/Mb) was observed in 12% (19/160) of the patients. The secondary findings in germline variants considered to be associated with hereditary tumors were detected in 9% (15/160) of the patients. Seventeen patients (11%, 17/160) were treated with genotype‐matched therapeutic agents, and the response rate was 47% (8/17). The median turnaround time for physicians was 20 days, and the median survival time after the initial visit was 8.7 months. The results of the present study prove the feasibility of implementing in‐house clinical sequencing as a promising laboratory examination technique for precision cancer medicine.
Peptidomimetic‐based approach toward inhibitors of microbial trimethylamine lyases
Authors: Gabr Moustafa T. , Deganutti Giuseppe , Reynolds Christopher A.
Published: August 2020

The development of gut microbiota‐targeted small molecules represents a promising platform for the identification of new therapeutics based on the implication of human gut bacteria with different diseases. Bacterial trimethylamine (TMA)‐lyase (CutC) is expressed in gut bacteria and catalyzes the conversion of choline to TMA. The association of elevated TMA production with various disorders has directed research efforts toward identification of CutC inhibitors. Herein, we introduce peptidomimetics as a promising toolbox for the discovery of CutC inhibitors. Our approach starts with screening a library of peptidomimetics for intestinal metabolic stability followed by in vitro CutC inhibition. Compound 5 was identified from this screening platform with IC50 value of 5.9 ± 0.6 μM for CutC inhibition. Unlike previously reported CutC inhibitors, compound 5 possessed universal CutC inhibitory activity in different bacterial strains. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested a plausible binding site and inhibition mechanism for compound 5. Therefore, compound 5 is a promising lead for further structural optimization in the search for CutC‐targeted small molecules.
Expedient synthesis and anticancer evaluation of dual‐action 9‐anilinoacridine methyl triazene chimeras
Authors: Walunj Dipak , Egarmina Katarina , Tuchinsky Helena , Shpilberg Ofer , Hershkovitz‐Rokah Oshrat , Grynszpan Flavio , Gellerman Gary
Published: August 2020

The efficient synthesis of molecular hybrids including a DNA‐intercalating 9‐anilinoacridine (9‐AnA) core and a methyl triazene DNA‐methylating moiety is described. Nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) and electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) reactions using readily accessible starting materials provide a quick entry to novel bifunctional anticancer molecules. The chimeras were evaluated for their anticancer activity. Chimera 7b presented the highest antitumor activity at low micromolar IC50 values in antiproliferative assays performed with various cancer cell lines. In comparison, compound 7b outperformed DNA‐intercalating drugs like amsacrine and AHMA. Mechanistic studies of chimera 7b suggest a dual mechanism of action: methylation of the DNA‐repairing protein MGMT associated with the triazene structural portion and Topo II inhibition by intercalation of the acridine core.
A Two‐Generation Education Intervention and Children’s Attendance in Head Start
Authors: Sommer Teresa Eckrich , Schneider William , Chor Elise , Sabol Terri J. , Chase‐Lansdale P. Lindsay , Brooks‐Gunn Jeanne , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Morris Amanda , King Christopher
Published: August 2020

Two‐generation human capital programs seek to promote the education of parents and children simultaneously. This study examines relations between family participation in CareerAdvance, which recruits parents of Head Start children into a workforce training program, and children’s Head Start attendance. The sample included 293 children (on average 4 years old) and their parents. After one semester, CareerAdvance children demonstrated higher rates of attendance and lower rates of absence and chronic absence (missing 10% or more of school days) than matched comparison children. These associations were similar across a range of high‐ and low‐risk subgroups at baseline. These findings are discussed in terms of the implications of a family systems approach for improving children’s Head Start attendance.
Causal Effects of Parent Number Talk on Preschoolers’ Number Knowledge
Authors: Gibson Dominic J. , Gunderson Elizabeth A. , Levine Susan C.
Published: August 2020

Individual differences in children’s number knowledge arise early and are associated with variation in parents’ number talk. However, there exists little experimental evidence of a causal link between parent number talk and children’s number knowledge. Parent number talk was manipulated by creating picture books which parents were asked to read with their children every day for 4 weeks. N = 100 two‐ to four‐year olds and their parents were randomly assigned to read either Small Number (1–3), Large Number (4–6), or Control (non‐numerical) books. Small Number books were particularly effective in promoting number knowledge relative to the Control books. However, children who began the study further along in their number development also benefited from reading the Large Number Books with their parents.
Learning From Video: A Meta‐Analysis of the Video Deficit in Children Ages 0 to 6 Years
Authors: Strouse Gabrielle A. , Samson Jennifer E.
Published: August 2020

Young children often learn less from video than face‐to‐face presentations. Meta‐regression models were used to examine the average size of this difference (video deficit) and investigate moderators. An average deficit of about half of a standard deviation was reported across 122 independent effect sizes from 59 reports, involving children ages 0–6 years. Moderator analyses suggested (a) the deficit decreased with age, (b) object retrieval studies showed larger deficits than other domains, and (c) there was no difference between studies using live versus prerecorded video. Results are consistent with a multiple‐mechanism explanation for the deficit. However, the analyses highlighted potential quality and publication bias issues that may have resulted in overestimation of the effect and should be addressed by future researchers.
The Association Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Child Telomere Length: Examining Self‐Regulation as a Behavioral Mediator
Authors: Sosnowski David W. , Kliewer Wendy , Valrie Cecelia R. , Winter Marcia A. , Serpell Zewelanji , Amstadter Ananda B.
Published: August 2020

Childhood adversity is linked to shortened telomere length (TL), but behavioral indicators of telomere attrition remain unclear. This study examined the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and child TL, and if ACEs were indirectly associated with TL through children’s self‐regulatory abilities (i.e., effortful control and self‐control). Hypotheses were tested using national data from teachers, parents, and their children (N = 2,527; Mage = 9.35, SD = .36 years). More ACEs were uniquely associated with short TL, and low self‐control mediated the association between more ACEs and short TL. While longitudinal studies are needed to strengthen claims of causation, this study identifies a pathway from ACEs to TL that should be explored further.
The association of muscle size, strength and exercise capacity with all‐cause mortality in non‐dialysis‐dependent CKD patients
Authors: Watson Emma L. , Major Rupert W. , Wilkinson Thomas J. , Greening Neil J. , Gould Douglas W. , Barratt Jonathan , Smith Alice C.
Published: August 2020

Background/Objective

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are commonly reported to exhibit skeletal muscle wasting, reduced strength and exercise capacity. Evidence from patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) demonstrates these factors are associated with mortality, but it is unclear whether this relationship exists earlier in the illness. Our objective was to determine whether muscle size, strength or exercise capacity was associated with all‐cause mortality, unscheduled hospital admissions or time to ESRD in patients not requiring dialysis.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study of 89 patients with CKD stages 3b‐5 not requiring renal replacement therapy with a mean follow‐up period of 3.3 years in which the contribution of predictors of rectus femoris muscle size, muscle strength, exercise capacity to all‐cause mortality rates, progression to ESRD and time to first hospitalization were investigated.

Results

Unadjusted analysis suggested each 1 cm2 increase in quadriceps muscle size (measured by ultrasonography cross‐sectional area) was associated with a 38% reduced risk for death (p = .006), and a 10 m improvement on the incremental shuttle walk test was associated with a 3% reduced risk for death (p = .04). However, this relationship was not present in analysis adjusted for age, gender and eGFR. No association was seen between any factor for the development of ESRD or time to first hospitalization.

Conclusion

These results suggest that in this small cohort, muscle size and exercise capacity are associated with mortality when considered alone, but this relationship was not present in adjusted analyses. Further investigation in a larger patient group is warranted.
Mean platelet volume combined red cell distribution width as biomarker of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with pulmonary heart disease
Authors: Bai Yu , Tao Xiao‐Nan
Published: August 2020

Background and objective

Platelet activation, inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress are common pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with pulmonary heart disease (PHD). Mean platelet volume (MPV) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) form part of the pathomechanisms of these conditions. Here, we investigated whether MPV and RDW can be biomarkers of PHD occurring secondary to COPD.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective study on 229 participants with COPD. Among them, 69 had PHD. Complete blood count (CBC), blood gas analysis, pulmonary function tests and echocardiography were analyzed.

Results

MPV and RDW‐standard deviation (RDW‐SD) were significantly higher in patients with PHD than in patients without PHD (P ≤ 0.001). MPV and RDW‐SD were positively correlated with pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and the size of the right ventricle (P ≤ 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the risk of PHD increased 3‐fold per unit rise in MPV (OR = 2.901, P ≤ 0.001). We observed that the risk of PHD increased 1.5 times per unit rise in RDW‐SD (OR = 1.371, P ≤ 0.001).The AUC of ROC curve for the combined MPV and RDW‐SD in predicting PHD among COPD patients was 0.900 (95％CI: 0.846‐0．954, P ≤ 0.001), with a sensitivity of 76.8% and a specificity of 99.4%.

Conclusions

Both MPV and RDW‐SD were significantly elevated and correlated with disease severity in COPD patients with PHD. A combination of these two parameters presents an effective biomarker of PHD.
Impact of temporary mechanical circulatory support for early graft failure on post–heart transplantation outcomes
Authors: Urban Marian , Lundgren Scott W. , Siddique Aleem , Ryan Timothy R. , Lowes Brian D. , Stoller Douglas A. , Um John Y.
Published: August 2020

Although temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) for hemodynamic failure following heart transplantation is associated with increased early morbidity and mortality, the impact of etiology of graft dysfunction and long‐term clinical implications are less well known. The objective of our study was to evaluate outcomes in patients who required venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) or temporary right ventricular assist device (RVAD) support for either primary or secondary early graft dysfunction. Hospital mortality in 27 patients who required tMCS following heart transplantation at our institution between 2007 and 2017 was 56%, 30% in patients with right ventricular dysfunction secondary to increased afterload, 60% in patients with primary graft dysfunction, and 100% in patients with graft failure secondary to coagulopathy with intraoperative bleeding or overwhelming sepsis. Conditional 1‐year and 5‐year survival was comparable between patients with, and without, the need for post‐transplantation support with tMCS (98% and 89%; 92% and 65% at 1 and 5 years, P = .21). Etiology of early graft failure plays an important part in determining the short‐term post–heart transplantation outcome. Although complications associated with tMCS use, such as renal dysfunction and infection, extend beyond index transplant hospitalization, long‐term conditional survival is not compromised.
Disasters and ‘conditions of possibility’: rethinking causation through an analysis of earthquakes in Nepal
Authors: Liechty Mark
Published: August 2020

What causes a disaster's aftermath? Scholars have increasingly turned to historical approaches that link outcomes to pre‐disaster sociopolitical dynamics. Disasters lead to ‘critical junctures’ that ‘trigger’ events that unfold in the wake of the initial phenomenon. This paper argues that the ‘critical junctures’ paradigm shares limitations with ‘path dependency’ theory from which it is derived, namely a tendency towards historicism—a functionalist teleology better able to explain continuity than change. As an alternative, this analysis draws on Michel Foucault's understanding of ‘conditions of possibility’ as a way of rethinking agency/causation, moving away from individual subjects, events, or even historical conditions towards, instead, the new, radically destabilised ‘epistemological field’ emerging in the disaster's aftermath. This paper examines a series of devastating earthquakes in Nepal to consider how post‐disaster ‘epistemological fields’ present new ‘conditions of possibility’ within which new ideas, actions, and outcomes become thinkable and possible in ways that pre‐disaster historical conditions could not have predicted.
Functional electrical stimulation cycling, goal‐directed training, and adapted cycling for children with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Armstrong Ellen L , Boyd Roslyn N , Horan Sean A , Kentish Megan J , Ware Robert S , Carty Christopher P
Published: August 2020

Aim

To test the efficacy of functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling, goal‐directed training, and adapted cycling, compared with usual care, to improve function in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

The intervention was delivered between 2017 and 2019 and included three sessions per week for 8 weeks (2×1h sessions at a children’s hospital, and 1h home programme/week). Hospital sessions included 30 minutes of FES cycling and 30 minutes of goal‐directed training. Home programmes included goal‐directed training and adapted cycling. The comparison group continued usual care. Primary outcomes were gross motor function assessed by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) and goal performance/satisfaction assessed using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Secondary outcomes were sit‐to‐stand and activity capacity, participation in home, school, and community activities, and power output. Linear regression was used to determine the between‐group mean difference immediately post‐training completion after adjusting for baseline scores.

Results

This randomized controlled trial included 21 participants (mean age=10y 3mo, standard deviation [SD]=3y; Gross Motor Function Classification System level: II=7, III=6, IV=8) who were randomized to the intervention (n=11) or usual care group (n=10). Between‐group differences at T2 favoured the intervention group for GMFM‐88 (mean difference=7.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.3–12.6; p=0.007), GMFM‐66 (mean difference=5.9; 95% CI: 3.1–8.8; p<0.001), COPM performance (mean difference=4.4; 95% CI: 3.9–5.3; p<0.001) and satisfaction (mean difference=5.2; 95% CI: 4.0–6.4; p<0.001).

Interpretation

Children with CP achieved meaningful functional improvements after FES cycling, goal‐directed training, and adapted cycling training. Cycling programmes for children with CP should be individualized and goal directed.
Effects of antidiabetic drugs on psoriasis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chi Ching‐Chi , Lee Chin‐Yu , Liu Chia‐Yu , Wang Shu‐Hui , Tien O’Donnell Felice , Tung Tao‐Hsin
Published: August 2020

Background

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, poses an elevated risk of developing diabetes mellitus.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of antidiabetic medications on psoriasis.

Data sources, study selection and data extraction

We conducted a systemic review and meta‐analysis and searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL for relevant randomized controlled trials. Our outcomes included 75% improvement in the psoriasis area and severity index from baseline (PASI 75), change in the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score, or change in the Dermatology Life Quality Index score under antidiabetic agents. Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias of included studies. Subgroup analysis of different dosages of the antidiabetic agents was also performed.

Data synthesis

We included 10 randomized controlled studies examining the effect of antidiabetic agents. Eight studies were rated high risk of bias. Pioglitazone demonstrated significant increase in PASI 75 (risk difference = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.18‐0.65) and decrease in mean PASI (mean difference = −3.82; 95% CI: −6.05‐1.ㄍ59). In subgroup analysis, 30 mg pioglitazone group demonstrated a significantly higher portion of PASI 75 than 15 mg pioglitazone group (P = .003).

Limitations

Some biases are reported high risk in involved articles. The main limitation of the study is in the inclusion of only glitazones. The lack of effect was seen for rosiglitazone and metformin. In the case of metformin, there was only one study available, which is also an important issue.

Conclusions

The current evidence demonstrates therapeutic efficacy of pioglitazone, which may be a treatment option in patients with psoriasis and diabetes mellitus.
Features of severe COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Del Sole Francesco , Farcomeni Alessio , Loffredo Lorenzo , Carnevale Roberto , Menichelli Danilo , Vicario Tommasa , Pignatelli Pasquale , Pastori Daniele
Published: August 2020

Background

To systematically review clinical and biochemical characteristics associated with the severity of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)‐related disease (COVID‐19).

Materials and methods

Systematic review of observational studies from PubMed, ISI Web of Science, SCOPUS and Cochrane databases including people affected by COVID‐19 and reporting data according to the severity of the disease. Data were combined with odds ratio (OR) and metanalysed. Severe COVID‐19 was defined by acute respiratory distress syndrome, intensive care unit admission and death.

Results

We included 12 studies with 2794 patients, of whom 596 (21.33%) had severe disease. A slightly higher age was found in severe vs non‐severe disease. We found that prevalent cerebrovascular disease (odds ratio [OR] 3.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.73‐7.72), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR: 2.39, 95% CI 1.10‐5.19), prevalent cardiovascular disease (OR: 2.84, 95% CI 1.59‐5.10), diabetes (OR: 2.78, 95% CI 2.09‐3.72), hypertension (OR: 2.24, 95% CI 1.63‐3.08), smoking (OR: 1.54, 95% CI 1.07‐2.22) and male sex (OR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.01‐1.49) were associated with severe disease. Furthermore, increased procalcitonin (OR: 8.21, 95% CI 4.48‐15.07), increased D‐Dimer (OR: 5.67, 95% CI 1.45‐22.16) and thrombocytopenia (OR: 3.61, 95% CI 2.62‐4.97) predicted severe infection.

Conclusion

Characteristics associated with the severity of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may allow an early identification and management of patients with poor outcomes.
Salivary antioxidant enzymes associated with oral toxicity in haematopoietic cell transplantation: An observational study
Authors: Bezinelli Letícia Mello , Eduardo Fernanda de Paula , Ferreira Mariana Henriques , Gobbi Marcella , Lopes Roberta M. G. , Rosin Flavia C. P. , Vogel Cristina , Hamerschlak Nelson , Corrêa Luciana
Published: August 2020

Background

In haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), oral mucositis and xerostomia are related to conditioning‐related oxidative stress. The role of salivary antioxidant enzymes in oral toxicity is poorly described. The aim of this study was to verify the association between salivary antioxidant enzymes and oral mucositis and xerostomia in HCT.

Design

Saliva from autologous and allogeneic HCT patients (n = 77) was selected before conditioning (T0), during the neutropenia period (T1) and after marrow engraftment (T2). Salivary flow, total salivary proteins, and superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione reductase activities were measured.

Results

There were no significant differences in salivary flow, total salivary proteins and catalase at the three HCT time points. Glutathione reductase levels were reduced at T1 compared to T0 (P = .013) and T2 (P = .001). Superoxide dismutase levels were increased from T0 to T2 (P = .013). Neither of these enzymes was associated with oral mucositis. Increased superoxide dismutase levels were associated with xerostomia frequency. Levels of this enzyme also showed significant correlation with days of xerostomia in T2 (ρ = .40, P = .002).

Conclusions

Salivary antioxidant enzymes changed before and during early periods after HCT. The increase in salivary superoxide dismutase suggested partial activation of the salivary antioxidant system and was associated with xerostomia.
Arterial stiffness and microvascular disease in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Antonopoulos Alexios S. , Siasos Gerasimos , Oikonomou Evangelos , Gouliopoulos Nikolaos , Konsola Theodosia , Tsigkou Vasiliki , Moschos Marilita , Tentolouris Nikolaos , Kassi Eva , Paschou Stavroula A. , Thanopoulou Anastasia , Vavuranakis Manolis , Stone Peter , Antoniades Charalambos , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: August 2020

Background

The clustering of arterial stiffness with microvascular disease (MD) and their effects on the clinical outcome of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) remains not fully clarified.

Methods

In a prospective study of 414 patients with T2D, we investigated the prognostic value of arterial stiffness and MD for clinical outcomes. Participants were assessed for the presence of MD (ie diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy) and arterial stiffness by pulse wave velocity (PWV) and followed‐up for a median of 30 (range 1‐60) months. The primary endpoint of the study was the composite endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular events, that is, cardiovascular and non‐cardiovascular mortality and non‐fatal myocardial infarction/stroke.

Results

A total of 146 (35.3%) patients had evidence of MD at baseline. In cox regression models, MD and PWV were independently associated with the composite clinical endpoint; for MD hazard ratio (HR), 3.24, 95%CI, 1.10‐9.54, P=.032, and for PWV HR, 1.20, 95%CI, 1.06‐1.36, P=.004) after adjustment for traditional risk factors, and enhanced risk discrimination and reclassification. The subgroup of patients with MD and high PWV was associated with increased incidence of the composite clinical endpoint (20.9% vs 1.8% in those with no MD & low PWV, P=.001). Importantly, absence of MD at baseline was associated with no mortality events during the follow‐up period. PWV at baseline was not associated with MD progression during follow‐up.

Conclusions

These findings support that screening for arterial stiffness and MD in the routine clinical assessment of patients with T2D may enhance prognostication and cardiovascular risk reclassification.
Automated broadcast of a predator call did not reduce predation pressure by Sugar Gliders on birds
Authors: Owens Giselle , Heinsohn Robert , Eyles Sam , Stojanovic Dejan
Published: August 2020

Fear may elicit behavioural and physiological responses in animals. We conducted a pilot study aiming to reduce bird nest predation in Tasmania by the introduced Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) by broadcasting calls of predatory owls. We designed a solar‐powered, automated weatherproof stereo for long‐term call broadcast in a forest environment. This device may have useful applications in other environments where long‐term call broadcast is required in remote field conditions. Call broadcast did not reduce the likelihood of Sugar Glider nest predation on either active bird nests or artificial nests baited with farmed quail eggs. If we elicited fear in Sugar Glider individuals with call broadcast, this fear did not result in behavioural changes that could be exploited to achieve the conservation objective of lower predation.
Microdamage in the equine superficial digital flexor tendon
Authors: O’Brien Claire , Marr Neil , Thorpe Chavaunne
Published: August 2020

The forelimb superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) is an energy‐storing tendon that is highly susceptible to injury during activities such as galloping and jumping, such that it is one of the most commonly reported causes of lameness in the performance horse. This review outlines the biomechanical and biothermal effects of strain on the SDFT and how these contribute to the accumulation of microdamage. The effect of age‐related alterations on strain response and subsequent injury risk is also considered. Given that tendon is a slowly healing and poorly regenerative tissue, prompt detection of early stages of pathology in vivo and timely adaptations to training protocols are likely to have a greater outcome than advances in treatment. Early screening tools and detection protocols could subsequently be of benefit in identifying subclinical signs of degeneration during the training programme. This provides an opportunity for preventative strategies to be implemented to minimise incidences of SDFT injury and reduce recovery periods in elite performance horses. Therefore, this review will focus on the modalities available to implement early screening and prevention protocols as opposed to methods to diagnose and treat injuries.
Lacosamide improves biochemical, genotoxic, and mitochondrial parameters after PTZ‐kindling model in mice
Authors: Lazzarotto Letícia , Pflüger Pricila , Regner Gabriela Gregory , Santos Fernanda Marcélia , Aguirre Débora Gonçalves , Brito Verônica Bidinotto , Moura Dinara Jaqueline , dos Santos Nayane Mendes , Picada Jaqueline Nascimento , Parmeggiani Belisa , Frusciante Marina Rocha , Leipnitz Guilhian , Pereira Patrícia
Published: August 2020

This study evaluated the effect of lacosamide (LCM) on biochemical and mitochondrial parameters after PTZ kindling in mice. Male mice were treated on alternative days for a period of 11 days with LCM (20, 30, or 40 mg/kg), saline, or diazepam (2 mg/kg), before PTZ administration (50 mg/kg). The hippocampi were collected to evaluate free radicals, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the mitochondrial complexes I‐III, II, and II‐III, as well as Bcl‐2 and cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expressions. Hippocampi, blood, and bone marrow were collected for genotoxic and mutagenic evaluations. LCM 40 mg/kg increased latency and decreased percentage of seizures, only on the 3rd day of observation. The dose of 30 mg/kg only showed positive effects on the percentage of seizures on the 2nd day of observation. LCM decreased free radicals and SOD activity and the dose of 40 mg/kg were able to increase CAT activity. LCM 30 and 40 mg/kg improved the enzymatic mitochondrial activity of the complex I‐III and LCM 30 mg/kg improved the activity of the complex II. In the comet assay, the damage induced by PTZ administration was reduced by LCM 20 and 30 mg/kg. The dose of 20 mg/kg increased COX‐2 expression while the highest dose used, 40 mg/kg, was able to reduce this expression when compared to the group treated with LCM 20 mg/kg. Although LCM did not produce the antiepileptogenic effect in vivo, it showed the neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress, bioenergetic dysfunction, and DNA damage induced by the repeated PTZ administration.