bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
cIMPACT‐NOW update 7: advancing the molecular classification of ependymal tumors
Authors: Ellison David W. , Aldape Kenneth D. , Capper David , Fouladi Maryam , Gilbert Mark R. , Gilbertson Richard J. , Hawkins Cynthia , Merchant Thomas E. , Pajtler Kristian , Venneti Sriram , Louis David N.
Published: June 2020

Advances in our understanding of the biological basis and molecular characteristics of ependymal tumors since the latest iteration of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of CNS tumors (2016) have prompted the cIMPACT‐NOW group to recommend a new classification. Separation of ependymal tumors by anatomic site is an important principle of the new classification and was prompted by methylome profiling data to indicate that molecular groups of ependymal tumors in the posterior fossa and supratentorial and spinal compartments are distinct. Common recurrent genetic or epigenetic alterations found in tumors belonging to the main molecular groups have been used to define tumor types at intracranial sites; C11orf95 and YAP1 fusion genes for supratentorial tumors and two types of posterior fossa ependymoma defined by methylation group, PFA and PFB. A recently described type of aggressive spinal ependymoma with MYCN amplification has also been included. Myxopapillary ependymoma and subependymoma have been retained as histopathologically defined tumor types, but the classification has dropped the distinction between classic and anaplastic ependymoma. While the cIMPACT‐NOW group considered that data to inform assignment of grade to molecularly defined ependymomas are insufficiently mature, it recommends assigning WHO grade 2 to myxopapillary ependymoma and allows grade 2 or grade 3 to be assigned to ependymomas not defined by molecular status.
Protective role of Galectin‐7 for skin barrier impairment in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Umayahara Takatsune , Shimauchi Takatoshi , Iwasaki Manami , Sakabe Jun‐ichi , Aoshima Masahiro , Nakazawa Shinsuke , Yatagai Tsuyoshi , Yamaguchi Hayato , Phadungsaksawasdi Pawit , Kurihara Kazuo , Tokura Yoshiki
Published: May 2020

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) patients have a barrier disorder in association with Th2 dominant skin inflammation. Galectin‐7 (Gal‐7), a soluble unglycosylated lectin, is highly expressed in the stratum corneum of AD patients. However, the biological significance of increased Gal‐7 expression in AD skin lesions remains unclear.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the production mechanism and functional role of Gal‐7 in AD patients and IL‐4/IL‐13–stimulated epidermal keratinocytes.

Methods

We assessed the Gal‐7 expression levels in skin lesions and sera from AD patients. Gal‐7 levels were also measured in monolayered normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) and 3‐dimensional (3D)–reconstructed epidermis in the presence or absence of IL‐4/IL‐13 with or without Stat3, Stat6 or Gal‐7 gene silencing.

Results

Gal‐7 was highly expressed in the stratum corneum or intercellular space of AD lesional epidermis as assessed by the stratum corneum proteome analysis and immunohistochemistry. A positive correlation was noted between serum Gal‐7 level and transepidermal water loss in patients with AD. These clinical findings were corroborated by our in vitro data, which showed that IL‐4/IL‐13 facilitated the extracellular release of endogenous Gal‐7 in both monolayered NHEKs and 3D‐reconstructed epidermis. This machinery was caused by IL‐4/IL‐13–induced cell damage and inhibited by knockdown of Stat6 but not Stat3 in NHEKs. Moreover, we performed Gal‐7 knockdown experiment on 3D‐reconstructed epidermis and the result suggested that endogenous Gal‐7 serves as a protector from IL‐4/IL‐13–induced disruption of cell‐to‐cell adhesion and/or cell‐to‐extracellular matrix adhesion.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Our study unveils the characteristic of Gal‐7 and its possible role as an alarmin that reflects the IL‐4/IL‐13–induced skin barrier impairment in AD.
Long‐term prognosis of adolescent and middle‐aged Chinese patients with low‐medium risk community‐acquired pneumonia: A cohort study
Authors: Yin Hongjun , Wang Shengfeng , Qu Jiuxin , Zhou Fei , Wang Chen , Cao Bin ,   CAP‐China
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The long‐term mortality rate in adolescent and middle‐aged patients with low‐medium risk community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains unelucidated.

Objective

Understanding the long‐term mortality rate in adolescent and middle‐aged patients with low‐medium risk CAP in Beijing, China, to provide a basis for the long‐term management of CAP patient.

Methods

A follow‐up survey was conducted telephonically from December 2017 to January 2018 to assess the survival status among 808 patients from a CAP‐China cohort enrolled from 10 general hospitals in Beijing between November 2010 and April 2012. The all‐cause mortality rate was determined and Cox’s proportional hazard model was performed to identify potential factors predicting mortality.

Results

Among the 808 patients, the mean age (SD) was 45.4 (19.6) year‐old and the median (IQR) pneumonia severity index (PSI) score was 42.0 (35.8). Survival status for a total of 426 (52.7%) were determined during the follow‐up and the non‐follow‐up patients were with slightly larger PSI score. The mean age (SD) for the follow‐up patients were 44.6 (18.7) year‐old and the median (IQR) PSI score was 42.0 (33.3). Over a median of 7 years, 32 participants died and the cumulative 1‐, 3‐, 5‐ and 7‐year all‐cause mortality rates were 1.6%, 4.2%, 5.9% and 7.5%, respectively. The average annual standardized mortality rate among the study participants was 9.79‰, which was significantly higher than the mortality rate of 5.20‰ among Beijing residents in 2016. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses revealed that age, comorbidity and PSI were independent prognostic factors associated with long‐term mortality, with hazard ratios of 4.953 (95% confidence interval [CI]3.270‐7.502), 2.393 (95% CI 1.148‐4.985) and 3.553 (95% CI 2.607‐4.843), respectively. [Correction added on 20 August 2020, after first online publication: “9.79%” has been corrected to “9.79‰”.]

Conclusion

The long‐term mortality rate is higher among patients with CAP compared with the age‐adjusted general population in the same city. Age, comorbidity and initial PSI class are independently prognostic factors for the long‐term mortality rate.
Dose‐Dependent Acute Effects of Everolimus Administration on Immunological, Neuroendocrine and Psychological Parameters in Healthy Men
Authors: Hörbelt Tina , Kahl Anna Lena , Kolbe Frederike , Hetze Susann , Wilde Benjamin , Witzke Oliver , Schedlowski Manfred
Published: May 2020

The rapamycin analogue everolimus (EVR) is a potent inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and clinically used to prevent allograft rejections as well as tumor growth. The pharmacokinetic and immunosuppressive efficacy of EVR have been extensively reported in patient populations and in vitro studies. However, dose‐dependent ex vivo effects upon acute EVR administration in healthy volunteers are rare. Moreover, immunosuppressive drugs are associated with neuroendocrine changes and psychological disturbances. It is largely unknown so far whether and to what extend EVR affects neuroendocrine functions, mood, and anxiety in healthy individuals. Thus, in the present study, we analyzed the effects of three different clinically applied EVR doses (1.5, 2.25, and 3 mg) orally administered 4 times in a 12‐hour cycle to healthy male volunteers on immunological, neuroendocrine, and psychological parameters. We observed that oral intake of medium (2.25 mg) and high doses (3 mg) of EVR efficiently suppressed T cell proliferation as well as IL‐10 cytokine production in ex vivo mitogen‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell. Further, acute low (1.5 mg) and medium (2.25 mg) EVR administration increased state anxiety levels accompanied by significantly elevated noradrenaline (NA) concentrations. In contrast, high‐dose EVR significantly reduced plasma and saliva cortisol as well as NA levels and perceived state anxiety. Hence, these data confirm the acute immunosuppressive effects of the mTOR inhibitor EVR and provide evidence for EVR‐induced alterations in neuroendocrine parameters and behavior under physiological conditions in healthy volunteers.
Pharmacokinetics of Favipiravir in Critically Ill Patients With COVID‐19
Authors: Irie Kei , Nakagawa Atsushi , Fujita Hirotoshi , Tamura Ryo , Eto Masaaki , Ikesue Hiroaki , Muroi Nobuyuki , Tomii Keisuke , Hashida Tohru
Published: May 2020

Since December 2019, a novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)) infection has been rapidly spreading worldwide and causing the respiratory illness, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The antiretroviral drug favipiravir (FPV) has been experimentally used for COVID‐19 treatment since March 2020 in Japan. However, the pharmacokinetics of FPV in critically ill patients is unknown. We measured the serum concentration of FPV using high‐performance liquid chromatography in patients with severe COVID‐19 who were admitted to the intensive care unit and placed on mechanical ventilation. The patients were administered 1,600 mg of FPV twice daily on day 1, followed by 600 mg twice daily from day 2 to day 5 (or more if needed). Suspensions of FPV tablets were administered through a nasogastric tube. Seven patients were enrolled in this study. Forty‐nine blood samples were obtained from the eligible patients to evaluate FPV concentration. The FPV trough (after 8–12 hours) concentrations of most samples were lower than the lower limit of quantification (1 µg/mL) and half‐maximal effective concentration (9.7 µg/mL) against SARS‐CoV‐2 previously tested in vitro. FPV trough concentration in critically ill patients was much lower than that of healthy subjects in a previous clinical trial, which is a cause for great concern. Further study is required to determine the optimal strategy for treatment of patients with severe COVID‐19.
Testing For SARS‐CoV‐2: The Day the World Turned its Attention to the Clinical Laboratory
Authors: Zhao Xuemei , Markensohn Julia F. , Wollensak David A. , Laterza Omar F.
Published: May 2020

In the last few months, an unprecedented number of laboratory tests for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) have been developed at a remarkable speed. With the rapid adoption of these tests into clinical practice, combined with the widespread publicity they received, questions arose related to the different types of tests, their utility, performance, and regulatory approval status. The aim of this publication is to provide a general landscape of laboratory testing for COVID‐19 and offer a historical and regulatory perspective associated with them. Specifically, we aim to elaborate on the regulatory complexities of diagnostic testing in the United States and its implications to the present outbreak, as well as provide a synopsis of laboratory tests that have been developed for COVID‐19. We will first address the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 directly by either nucleic acid amplification tests or by the detection of the viral protein for active infections. Subsequently, we will provide an overview of serological tests that can aid not only in diagnosis but additionally help to identify prior infections and potential immunity.
Immune thrombocytopenia in adults: A single‐centre review of demographics, clinical features and treatment outcomes
Authors: Woolley Philippa , Newton Rosalind , Mc Guckin Siobhan , Thomas Mari , Westwood John‐Paul , Scully Marie A.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a bleeding disorder characterised by an isolated thrombocytopenia in the absence of an alternative diagnosis. The condition is highly heterogeneous with some patients requiring multiple of therapy before achieving response. In this study, we collected data on a large cohort of primary ITP patients with the objective of identifying variables which may predict treatment requirements.

Methods

We collected data on 379 patients, 275 with a confirmed diagnosis of primary ITP included demographics, baseline laboratory results and treatments. These were compared against treatment responses and lines of therapy.

Results

Patients who presented with a platelet count of <30 × 109/L or bleeding symptoms were observed to require more subsequent lines of therapy (P‐value <0.001). 32% of patients (n = 87) received no treatment, and these patients had a significantly higher median count compared to those with required >2 lines of therapy (P‐value <0.001). Superior response rates were demonstrated with thrombopoietin receptor agonists when compared with other agents irrespective of baseline characteristics.

Conclusions

Platelet counts at diagnosis are a potentially strong predictive indicator of subsequent lines of therapy. Patients with bleeding symptoms at diagnosis were more likely to have lower median platelets counts.
Insights into conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes affected by soil minerals
Authors: Wu Shan , Wu Yichao , Huang Qiaoyun , Cai Peng
Published: May 2020

Widespread antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) have caused critical threats to public health on a global scale. Soil, composed mainly of minerals, acts as a source of resistance determinants, playing a considerable role in the development and dissemination of ARGs. The great abundance of ARGs in the soil environment raises concern about the effect of minerals on the spread of ARGs. Herein, the horizontal transfer of a model plasmid pMP2463 containing ARGs from Escherichia coli S17‐1 to Pseudomonas putida KT2440 was monitored following exposure to four common soil minerals, namely, kaolinite, montmorillonite, goethite and birnessite. Birnessite resulted in concentration‐dependent increases in conjugative transfer of plasmid pMP2463 by 1.3–4.3 fold, compared with that in the control group. However, no obvious laws were found in the change of conjugative transfer rate at different concentrations of kaolinite and montmorillonite. As for goethite, the conjugative transfer rate increased firstly and then decreased as the concentration increased. The possible mechanisms underlying birnessite‐induced conjugative transfer of plasmid were explored; birnessite is capable of initiating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, inducing the oxidative stress response. Additionally, birnessite notably facilitated the mRNA expression of the outer membrane protein genes, which contributed to cellular membrane pore formation and horizontal gene transfer, and altered the mRNA expression of conjugative‐related genes that are responsible for conjugative transfer of mobile genetic elements between bacteria. This study triggers questions regarding the potential role of soil minerals in the global dissemination of antimicrobial resistance and provides insights into the interactions between bacteria and minerals in the natural soil environment.

Highlights

The effect of soil minerals on conjugative transfer of ARGs was explored.

Birnessite induced the concentration‐dependent increase of conjugative transfer.

Mechanisms underlying ROS formation, membrane permeability increase, gene expression alteration were revealed.

Our results provide evidence for the effect of birnessite on antibiotic resistance dissemination.
Subchondral focal osteopenia associated with proximal sesamoid bone fracture in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Shaffer Sarah K. , To Celeste , Garcia Tanya C. , Fyhrie David P. , Uzal Francisco A. , Stover Susan M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Proximal sesamoid bone (PSB) fracture is the most common fatal injury in Thoroughbred (TB) racehorses in the United States. Epidemiological and pathological evidence indicates PSB fracture is likely the acute culmination of a chronic stress‐related process. However, the aetiopathogenesis of PSB fracture is poorly understood.

Objective

To characterise bone abnormalities that precede PSB fracture.

Study design

Two retrospective case‐control groups of PSBs from TB racehorses with, and without, unilateral biaxial PSB fracture.

Methods

Proximal sesamoid bones were harvested post‐mortem from TB racehorses subjected to euthanasia for unilateral biaxial PSB fracture (cases) or causes unrelated to PSB fracture (controls) while racing or training. The fractured medial PSB (FX‐PSB) and contralateral intact medial PSB (CLI‐PSB) from racehorses that sustained PSB fracture, and an intact medial PSB (CTRL‐PSB) from racehorses that did not have a PSB fracture were collected as case and control specimens.Study 1distributions of morphological features were compared among case and control groups using visual examination, photographs, radiographs and histology of whole PSBs and serial sagittal sections (10 FX‐PSB, 10 CLI‐PSB and 10 CTRL‐PSB).Study 2local bone volume fraction and mineral densities were compared among case and control PSBs using microcomputed tomography (9 FX‐PSB, 9 CLI‐PSB and 9 CTRL‐PSB).

Results

A focal subchondral lesion characterised by colocalised focal discoloration, radiolucency, osteopenia, low tissue mineral density and a surrounding region of dense cancellous bone was identified in most case horses but not in controls. This subchondral lesion was found in a slightly abaxial mid‐body location and was bilaterally present in most case horses.

Main limitations

The post‐mortem samples may not represent the spectrum of abnormalities that occur throughout the development of the subchondral lesion. Lateral PSBs were not examined, so their contribution to biaxial PSB fracture pathogenesis is unknown.

Conclusion

Abaxial subchondral lesions are consistent with pre‐existing injury and likely associated with PSB fracture.
Progression of shallow medial femoral condyle radiographic lucencies in Thoroughbred repository radiographs and their influence on future racing careers
Authors: Pérez‐Nogués Marcos , Derham Ann , Marmion James , True Baker William
Published: June 2020

Background

Shallow lucencies less than 4 mm deep into the medial femoral condyle (MFC) are frequent in Thoroughbred horses undergoing screening sales radiographs. It is unclear if these shallow defects are precursors to larger cystic lesions or if they are fully developed defects that remodel into a flattened femoral condyle.

Objective

To evaluate radiological lucencies of the MFC and their progression in size, in a cohort of Thoroughbred horses, ranging from 5 to 18 months of age and to report on the racing careers of these horses compared to their maternal siblings free of stifle pathology.

Study design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

Radiographic reports were reviewed to identify cases with MFC lucency. Medical data including age at the time of radiographic sale set, sex, and MFC lucency radiographic measurements were recorded. The data were analysed for changes in lucency morphology. Racing data were collected and analysed for the following 5 years.

Results

From 12 938 sales reports reviewed, 3874 horses were found to have radiographic sets available at both weanling and yearling sales. A MFC lucency ≤3 mm in depth was diagnosed in at least one radiographic sales set in 248 horses (6.4%). The right femur was more commonly affected (73.9%) than the left. Radiographic lucencies in the left femur were significantly smaller (P = .02) than lucencies in the right femur. Radiographic lucencies resolved in 6.1% of cases, 3.6% of cases developed into a cyst, 40.7% of cases were unchanged in size, 23.6% of lucencies decreased in size and 8.2% increased in size. Cysts >3 mm deep regressed into smaller lesions accounting for 4.9% of the lucencies, and 12.9% of lucencies developed from a normal or flat medial femoral condyle contour. Horses with a medial femoral condyle lucency had significantly less starts as a 2‐year‐old vs. their maternal siblings (P < .01).

Main limitations

Data were collected retrospectively. Measurement errors may have occurred due to the measuring tool scale, small size of the defects and/or radiographic position. Treatments between radiographic studies were unknown and could not be accounted for. Observers were not blinded to radiographic sales reports.

Conclusions

Radiographically diagnosed lucencies in the MFC of immature Thoroughbreds have the potential to fully resolve or develop into a cyst. However, most radiographic lucencies do not change in size. Thoroughbreds with MFC lucencies had less starts as 2‐year‐olds when compared to their maternal siblings free of stifle pathology.
Three‐dimensional change in temperature sensitivity of northern vegetation phenology
Authors: Gao Mengdi , Wang Xuhui , Meng Fandong , Liu Qiang , Li Xiangyi , Zhang Yuan , Piao Shilong
Published: May 2020

Understanding how the temperature sensitivity of phenology changes with three spatial dimensions (altitude, latitude, and longitude) is critical for the prediction of future phenological synchronization. Here we investigate the spatial pattern of temperature sensitivity of spring and autumn phenology with altitude, latitude, and longitude during 1982–2016 across mid‐ and high‐latitude Northern Hemisphere (north of 30°N). We find distinct spatial patterns of temperature sensitivity of spring phenology (hereafter “spring ST”) among altitudinal, latitudinal, and longitudinal gradient. Spring ST decreased with altitude mostly over eastern Europe, whereas the opposite occurs in eastern North America and the north China plain. Spring ST decreased with latitude mainly in the boreal regions of North America, temperate Eurasia, and the arid/semi‐arid regions of Central Asia. This distribution may be related to the increased temperature variance, decreased precipitation, and radiation with latitude. Compared to spring ST, the spatial pattern of temperature sensitivity of autumn phenology (hereafter “autumn ST”) is more heterogeneous, only showing a clear spatial pattern of autumn ST along the latitudinal gradient. Our results highlight the three‐dimensional view to understand the phenological response to climate change and provide new metrics for evaluating phenological models. Accordingly, establishing a dense, high‐quality three‐dimensional observation system of phenology data is necessary for enhancing our ability to both predict phenological changes under changing climatic conditions and to facilitate sustainable management of ecosystems.
The Relationship Between Parental Care and Pain in Children With Headache: A Narrative Review
Authors: Natalucci Giulia , Faedda Noemi , Baglioni Valentina , Guidetti Vincenzo
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In migraine or primary headache in children, parents play a fundamental role in pain management. For this narrative review, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Psych Info were searched using the terms “parent headache”, “mother/father headache”, “parental impact headache”, “alexithymia parents headache”, “catastrophizing parent headache”, “family headache”, “children parent headache”, and “quality of life family headache”. Articles were chosen for inclusion based on their relevance in to the topic.

Overview

Several parental and psychological characteristics can influence in children and adolescent headache, such as parental attitudes as oppressive or overprotective; punitive parenting styles; familial psychological symptoms, especially anxiety and depression; catastrophizing about their child’s pain or excessive worry about their child’s headache; inability to express emotions; and feelings that may lead to somatization problems.

Discussion

Parents’ attitudes and behaviors toward their child’s headache have a strong relation with the severity of headache attacks. Mothers seem to have more influence than fathers on children’s pain and emotional regulation. We suggest that the presence of caregiver‐child transmission of maladaptive coping strategies, arising from difficulties expressing emotion, may lead to incorrect management of headache pain, further facilitating headache chronification.
Impact of age on clinical outcomes of antihypertensive therapy in patients with hypertension and coronary artery disease: A sub‐analysis of the Heart Institute of Japan Candesartan Randomized Trial for Evaluation in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kikuchi Noriko , Ogawa Hiroshi , Kawada‐Watanabe Erisa , Arashi Hiroyuki , Jujo Kentaro , Sekiguchi Haruki , Yamaguchi Junichi , Hagiwara Nobuhisa
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to determine whether different systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements achieved with antihypertensive therapy impact clinical outcomes by age in patients with hypertension and coronary artery disease (CAD). This post hoc analysis from the Heart Institute of Japan Candesartan Randomized Trial for Evaluation in Coronary Heart Disease (HIJ‐CREATE) trial included 2048 patients with hypertension and angiographically documented CAD. Participants were divided into three groups based on age at enrollment: middle‐aged (<60 years, n = 570), pre‐elderly (≥60‐<70 years, n = 730), and elderly (≥70 years, n = 748). Among the 2,048 patients, 1695 (82.7%) underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. The primary end point was the time to first occurrence of a major adverse cardiac event (MACE). During a median follow‐up of 4.2 years, the MACE rate was 19.8%, 28.1%, and 31.1% in the middle‐aged, pre‐elderly, and elderly groups, respectively. Achieved BP was defined as the mean BP during scheduled visits. Patients with higher achieved SBP had a higher occurrence of MACE in all age groups. An unadjusted quadratic proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the relationship between achieved BP during follow‐up and risk for MACE. In each age group, participants were divided into quartiles based on the achieved BP during follow‐up. The relationship between achieved SBP and the incidence of MACE did not follow a J‐shaped curve in any age group. In conclusion, in the contemporary era of aggressive coronary revascularization, a lower SBP target may be appropriate even in elderly patients with hypertension and CAD.
Developmental profiles of childhood attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and irritability: association with adolescent mental health, functional impairment, and suicidal outcomes
Authors: Galera Cedric , Orri Massimiliano , Vergunst Francis , Melchior Maria , Van der Waerden Judith , Bouvard Manuel P. , Collet Ophélie , Boivin Michel , Tremblay Richard E. , Côté Sylvana M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Irritability is frequently comorbid with ADHD. Although irritability alone has been linked to deleterious mental health and adaptive issues, the joint developmental course of ADHD and irritability symptoms during childhood as well as its association with later mental health and suicidal outcomes is not fully understood. We aimed to describe the developmental trajectories of childhood ADHD and irritability symptoms and to quantify their association with adolescent mental health and suicidal outcomes.

Methods

The Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development (QLSCD) included 1407 participants from the general population followed up from age 5 months to 17 years. We used a multitrajectory approach to identify developmental trajectories of childhood (6–12 years) ADHD and irritability symptoms. Outcome measures were adolescent (13–17 years) mental health (psychiatric symptoms/functional impairment) and suicidal outcomes.

Results

We identified distinct developmental profiles: combined absent or very low ADHD and absent or very low irritability (940 [66.8%]; reference group), moderately high irritability and low ADHD (158 [11.2%]), moderately high ADHD and low irritability (198 [14.1%]), and combined high ADHD and high irritability (111 [7.9%]). Multivariate modeling showed that, compared to children in the reference group, those in the combined high ADHD and high irritability profile showed higher levels of ADHD continuity (d ranges = 0.40–0.50), externalizing (d ranges = 0.25–0.59), internalizing (d ranges = 0.20–0.29), and functional impairments (d ranges = 0.17–0.48) and suicidal behaviors (odds ratio (OR) = 2.12, confidence interval (CI) = 1.47–3.06) in adolescence.

Conclusions

The presence of persistently high levels of irritability along with ADHD symptoms during childhood significantly predicts adolescent ADHD continuity, externalizing, internalizing, and suicidal outcomes. Systematic consideration of irritability when assessing and treating ADHD may improve long‐term mental health outcomes.
Antibiotic resistance in acne: changes, consequences and concerns
Authors: Karadag A.S. , Aslan Kayıran M. , Wu C.‐Y. , Chen W. , Parish L.C.
Published: May 2020

Antibiotic resistance in acne was first observed in the 1970s and has been a major concern in dermatology since the 1980s. The resistance rates and types of antimicrobials have subsequently shown great variations in regions and countries. Illustrative of this is the resistance to topical erythromycin and clindamycin which continues to be a problem worldwide, while resistance to systemic treatment with tetracyclines has remained low during the past decade. The resistance for the newer macrolides like azithromycin and clarithromycin has been increasing. The results of antibiotic resistance may include treatment failure of acne, disturbance of skin microbiota, induction of opportunistic pathogens locally and systemically, and dissemination of resistant strains to both healthcare personnel and the general population. The ensuing complications, such as aggravated opportunistic infections caused by Propionibacterium acnes and the emergence of multiresistant superbugs, have not yet been confirmed.
Accuracy of a high‐intensity focused ultrasound device with and without real‐time visualization system in face and neck treatment of skin laxity
Authors: Vachiramon Vasanop , Techakajornkeart Rattiya , Leerunyakul Kanchana , Chayavichitsilp Pamela
Published: May 2020

Background

Microfocused ultrasound (MFU) is a nonsurgical treatment for the improvement of skin laxity. Multiple MFU devices with and without a visualization system are commercially available.

Aims

This study aims to compare the accuracy rates of MFU on target treatment areas with and without a visualization system.

Patients/Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using 52 dermatologists as study subjects. Each subject was asked to treat one simulated volunteer on the face and upper neck with MFU for 2 sessions using the training mode. Participants were allowed to see the ultrasound monitoring screen in one session (visualized session) and were not allowed to see the monitoring screen in the other session (nonvisualized session). One investigator evaluated the accuracy rate by monitoring real‐time whether an appropriate contact between the transducer and the skin is shown on the visualization system when the energy release button is pressed.

Results

Higher accuracy rates were observed in the visualized session than the nonvisualized session in all treatment areas including brow, lateral orbit, infraorbital, cheek, and upper neck. The greatest difference in accuracy rates was observed when performing the treatment on the upper neck. Participants with more experiences had higher accuracy rates while performing visualization session when compared to those who had less experiences. Visualized sessions required a significantly longer treatment time.

Conclusions

The utilization of MFU with visualization system increases the likelihood of proper skin contact. This in turn may give a more favorable treatment outcome and decrease the rates of complications from MFU treatment.
Social‐economic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on aesthetic centers in Greece
Authors: Biskanaki Foteini , Rallis Εfstathios , Andreou Εleni , Sfyri Εleni , Tertipi Νiki , Kefala Vasiliki
Published: May 2020

Background

Epidemics are a major cause of health problems in developing countries, preventing the accumulation of human capital and economic growth. On the appearance of the pandemic of the new coronavirus COVID‐19 worldwide, this survey was carried out in the 4th week of the occurrence of the cases in Greece.

Objectives

The investigation was aimed at the social and economic impact caused by this COVID‐19 pandemic and the state's decision to suspend the operation of businesses and stores in Greece.

Materials and methods

One hundred and fifty‐eight esthetic centers from various areas of Greece were participated in this study, and the questionnaires were sent electronically to the business owners. Statistical analyzes were conducted using Google Forms and the questionnaires analyzed through PSPP software.

Results

Based on their answers and the statistical analyzes, it was calculated the reduction of the monthly income for the first month of suspension of the operation of their companies. Additionally, social‐related matters were examined as, how they experience this period, psychologically, financially, what problems they believe that they will face, and what changes in their work that could result from the pandemic.

Discussion

There is no similar study and experience for esthetic centers from a viral pandemic in literature. The suspension of operations provoked serious financial problems and significant psychological burden about what “tomorrow will bring” with returning to “normalcy.”
DOES FDI ACTUALLY AFFECT INCOME INEQUALITY? INSIGHTS FROM 25 YEARS OF RESEARCH
Authors: Huang Kaixing , Sim Nicholas , Zhao Hong
Published: June 2020

While there are 25 years of empirical research on how FDI may affect income inequality, there is surprisingly no consensus on this issue. In this paper, we conduct a meta‐analysis on the effect of FDI on inequality using 543 empirical studies from 1995 to 2019. Among various factors, we find that the development level of the study country has the strongest influence on the direction in which FDI affects income inequality. When the primary studies are sorted into three groups based on the GDP per capita of their sample areas, the within‐group estimates on the effect of FDI on income inequality become strongly consistent with each other. Particularly, we find that FDI is associated with higher inequality for the low‐income group, has no statistically significant effect for the middle‐income group, and is associated with lower inequality for the high‐income group. This observation suggests that FDI may increase income inequality as a country initially develops, but reduce inequality as development deepens.
Social bonding or depleting? A team‐level investigation of leader self‐sacrifice on team and leader work engagement
Authors: Chen Xingwen , Yuan Yiwei , Liu Jun , Zhu Li , Zhu Zheng
Published: May 2020

The leader self‐sacrifice literature has largely drawn on the norm of reciprocity to examine the positive impacts of leader self‐sacrifice on employee attitudes and behaviours, but little attention has been paid to the potential negative impacts of leader self‐sacrifice on leaders’ own work outcomes. Grounded in social exchange theory and ego depletion theory, our research focuses on why leader self‐sacrifice brings about both beneficial and detrimental effects and considers how leader competence shapes these effects. Two field studies were conducted to test our hypotheses. Study 1 explored the underlying mechanisms through which leader self‐sacrifice influences team/leader work engagement. Study 2 replicated and extended the findings of Study 1 by further testing the moderating role of leader competence. Our results indicated that team affective commitment to leaders acts as a key mediator of the positive relationship between leader self‐sacrifice and team work engagement, and that leader depletion serves as a crucial mechanism underlying the negative relationship between leader self‐sacrifice and leader work engagement. Additionally, leader competence affects how team members view self‐sacrificing leaders and the extent to which self‐sacrificing leaders consume their energy. For competent leaders, the positive influence of leader self‐sacrifice on team work engagement (via team affective commitment to leaders) is stronger, and the negative influence of leader self‐sacrifice on leader work engagement (via leader depletion) is weaker.

Practitioner points

To avoid self‐sacrificing leaders being seriously depleted, organizations should design activities or training programmes to help leaders replenish self‐control resources and, if possible, increase their self‐control capacity.

To encourage team members’ investment in their work, leaders may need to establish psychological attachment and bonds with members to motivate them to repay sacrificial behaviours by fully engaging in the work.

Organizations can provide systematic training to enhance leader competence to magnify the beneficial impacts and buffer the detrimental impacts of leader self‐sacrifice.
“Pressure pain threshold over masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis”
Authors: Valentino Roberta , Rongo Roberto , Alessio Maria , Alstergren Per , Bucci Rosaria , Leone Giovanna , D’Antò Vincenzo , Michelotti Ambrosina
Published: May 2020

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune, chronic, inflammatory joint disease, affecting children and adolescents. Patients with JIA may have pain and fatigue in muscles. There are not studies evaluating the pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) of both masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with JIA.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate PPTs of masticatory muscles and TMJ in subjects with JIA.

Methods

Fifty‐one JIA patients and fifty‐two healthy subjects were recruited. JIA group was assessed for with a standardised clinical examination for temporomandibular disorders. In all subjects, the PPT was evaluated in the following sites: anterior temporalis (AT) and masseter (MM) muscles, TMJ and thenar (TH) eminence. Comparisons between groups were assessed with unpaired t test and ANOVA (P < .05).

Results

Pressure pain thresholds were significantly lower among JIA patients compared with controls (P < .001) for all analysed sites. The presence of TMJ pain at palpation was significantly associated with a lower PPT at TMJ (P = .031).

Conclusions

Patients with JIA have generally lowered pain threshold to mechanical stimulus, which suggests an effect of JIA on nocicepton‐modulating processes.
Resistance to gapeworm parasite has both additive and dominant genetic components in house sparrows, with evolutionary consequences for ability to respond to parasite challenge
Authors: Lundregan Sarah L. , Niskanen Alina K. , Muff Stefanie , Holand Håkon , Kvalnes Thomas , Ringsby Thor‐Harald , Husby Arild , Jensen Henrik
Published: May 2020

Host–parasite relationships are likely to change over the coming decades in response to climate change and increased anthropogenic stressors. Understanding the genetic architecture of parasite resistance will aid prediction of species' responses to intensified parasite challenge. The gapeworm “Syngamus trachea” is prevalent in natural bird populations and causes symptomatic infections ranging from mild to severe. The parasite may affect ecological processes by curtailing bird populations and is important due to its propensity to spread to commercially farmed birds. Our large‐scale data set on an insular house sparrow metapopulation in northern Norway includes information on gapeworm prevalence and infection intensity, allowing assessment of the genetics of parasite resistance in a natural system. To determine whether parasite resistance has a heritable genetic component, we performed variance component analyses using animal models. Resistance to gapeworm had substantial additive genetic and dominance variance, and genome‐wide association studies to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with gapeworm resistance yielded multiple loci linked to immune function. Together with genome partitioning results, this indicates that resistance to gapeworm is under polygenic control in the house sparrow, and probably in other bird species. Hence, our results provide the foundation needed to study any eco‐evolutionary processes related to gapeworm infection, and show that it is necessary to use methods suitable for polygenic and nonadditive genetic effects on the phenotype.
Motor dysfunction of the gut in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Malagelada Carolina , Bendezú R‐Alvaro , Seguí Santi , Vitrià Jordi , Merino Xavier , Nieto Adoracion , Sihuay Denisse , Accarino Anna , Molero Xavier , Azpiroz Fernando
Published: May 2020

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disease caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator is extensively expressed in the intestine and has an important role in the regulation of the viscosity and pH of gut secretions. Several studies have reported a delay in small bowel and colonic transit times in patients with CF which have been attributed to the secretory dysfunction. Our aim was to determine whether intestinal contractility is affected in these patients.

Methods

Consecutive patients with CF referred to our institution between 2014 and 2017 (n = 16) were prospectively investigated using automated non‐invasive techniques for morpho‐functional evaluation of the gut developed in our laboratory. On separate days, intraluminal images of the gut were obtained by capsule endoscopy and external images by abdominal MRI. Analysis of images (endoluminal and external) was performed with original, previously validated programs based on computer vision and machine learning techniques and compared with age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Key Results

Patients with CF exhibited important reduction in contractile activity and increased retention of static turbid luminal content in the small bowel by endoluminal image analysis. Morpho‐volumetric analysis of MRI images found increased ileo‐colonic volumes in CF. Significant correlations between abnormalities detected by intraluminal and external imaging techniques were found. The presence and severity of digestive symptoms were not related to abnormal gut function.

Conclusion and Inferences

Impaired transit and pooling of gut contents in patients with CF is associated with impaired intestinal motility.
Influence of oestrogen deficiency and excessive mechanical stress on condylar head of mandible
Authors: Nogami Shinnosuke , Yamauchi Kensuke , Odashima Kenji , Ito Ko , Iikubo Masahiro , Kumasaka Akira , Martinez‐de la Cruz Gerardo , Gaggl Alexander , Kumamoto Hiroyuki , Takahashi Tetsu
Published: May 2020

Objective

We assessed the aetiology of idiopathic condylar resorption by examining the effects of oestrogen and compressive mechanical stress under a low systemic oestrogen condition in temporomandibular joints (TMJ) caused by an ovariectomy.

Materials and Methods

Female rabbits were divided into non‐ovariectomy (non‐OVX) and ovariectomy (OVX) groups. A cortical osteotomy was performed with a custom device that was increased in length by 0.25 mm every 12 hr for 1 week after the operation, during which the TMJs in the rabbits received compressive mechanical stress. Samples from both groups were examined with micro‐computed tomography and histological staining.

Results

Area and depth of bone resorption were both greater in the OVX group. Furthermore, a significantly earlier and greater prevalence of sub‐condylar bone resorption was noted in that group, while cells positive for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase were increased in the OVX group.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that oestrogen induced a much greater amount of bone resorption on the anterior surface of the condylar head at an earlier stage in the TMJs of the present model rabbits. Thereafter, restoration of TMJ function appeared to occur in a normal manner.
Vitamin deficiencies in pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis: A systematic review
Authors: Fissinger Alexis , Mages Keith C. , Solomon Aliza B.
Published: May 2020

Background

Nutritional deficiencies are seen in patients with food allergy. Low vitamin D levels have been found in patients with atopic conditions. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune antigen‐mediated disease found to be highly associated in patients with atopic disease and treated with dietary elimination with recommendations to utilize a dietician to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Nonetheless, the relationship between EoE and vitamin deficiency remains unclear. We aimed to systematically review the evidence to support a possible association between vitamin deficiency and eosinophilic esophagitis.

Methods

Electronic searches were performed with keywords relating to EoE and vitamins among pediatric patients in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library. Summary estimates were calculated. Citations were reviewed against pre‐defined criteria. (Inclusion: human subjects, aged 0‐18, with eosinophilic esophagitis. Exclusion: adults over 18 years, non‐English papers).

Results

The search yielded 1707 studies. Five of these studies with a total of 137 pediatric patients were included in the systematic review. Outcome measures were assessed at different points in EoE treatment across studies. The single common outcome measure across all included studies was vitamin D. Reported prevalence of low vitamin D varied in these studies (0%‐52%). Vitamin D levels of children with EoE both pre‐ and post‐intervention were low.

Conclusions

There is limited published literature on vitamin deficiencies associated with EoE both pre‐ and post‐intervention. The limited data on vitamin D suggest that insufficiency or deficiency may be present in these patients, but it remains unclear whether deficiency is caused by diet. More prospective, well‐defined studies, in addition to routine reporting on dietary intake and nutritional status, are needed to make any conclusions or recommendations for screening.
Functional neural substrates of football fanaticism: Different pattern of brain responses and connectivity in fanatics
Authors: Bilgiç Başar , Kurt Elif , Makar Çağrı Can , Ulasoglu‐Yildiz Cigdem , Samancı Bedia , Gürvit Hakan , Demiralp Tamer , Emre Murat
Published: May 2020

Aim

Sports activities provide social interaction for humans. Commitment to a given team is a salient feature of being a sports fan and becomes a prominent part of self‐identification for fanatics. Emotion, subjective hedonic experience, and non‐romantic love are related to fan behaviors. Few studies have evaluated the neural basis of sports fanaticism.

Methods

Thirty men, including 16 football fanatics and 14 non‐fanatics, with a mean age of 27.4 ± 6.4 years (range, 20–48 years) were enrolled. Subjects underwent functional MRI while watching a set of goals scored by favorite, rival, and neutral teams.

Results

The analysis of variance in a general linear model revealed a significant Group × Condition interaction effect in the bilateral dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) that was more prominent in the left hemisphere. In the post‐hoc comparisons, fanatics showed increased activation in bilateral dACC, supplementary motor area, superior frontal cortex, right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and right insula for Favorite > Neutral contrast and an increased activation in bilateral dACC and supplementary motor area for Rival > Neutral contrast. Seed‐based connectivity analyses using the areas with significant activation differences revealed increased connectivity between dACC and several regions, including the left posterior lateral temporal area, insula, bilateral medial temporal area, and medial superior frontal area as well as the basal ganglia in fanatics compared to non‐fanatics.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that football fanatics exhibit a different brain activation and connectivity pattern from non‐fanatics, both under favorable and unfavorable conditions. This brain activity and connectivity pattern under emotionally laden conditions may represent higher responses to rewards, higher emotional valence attribution, and stronger motivational state of football fanatics, which might underlie their unusual behavioral responses.