bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of ertugliflozin on β‐cell function: Pooled analysis from four phase 3 randomized controlled studies
Authors: Gallo Silvina , Raji Annaswamy , Calle Roberto A. , Pong Annpey , Meyer Christian
Published: July 2020

Aim

To identify potential predictors and mediators of changes in β‐cell function in response to ertugliflozin treatment in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Participants and methods

Data from patients with T2DM randomized to ertugliflozin (5 or 15 mg; observations from both doses were pooled) or placebo in four phase 3 clinical studies (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01958671, NCT02226003, NCT02036515, NCT02099110) were pooled and analysed. Change from baseline in β‐cell function at week 26 was assessed, and its potential predictors and mediators were analysed using linear and multiple regression analyses.

Results

Compared with placebo, ertugliflozin improved β‐cell function when assessed by mean percent change from baseline in homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function (HOMA‐%β; ertugliflozin: 14.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 12.3, 17.1; placebo: −0.4%, 95% CI −3.4, 2.5], but not when assessed by change in C‐peptide index following a mixed meal tolerance test. Change in HOMA‐%β correlated with change from baseline in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and treatment with ertugliflozin, and weakly with change from baseline in body weight. In the ertugliflozin group, change in HOMA‐%β correlated with baseline fasting plasma glucose (FPG; r = 0.235, P < 0.001), baseline HbA1c (r = 0.138, P < 0.001), baseline homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR; r = 0.162, P < 0.01), and baseline HOMA‐%β (r = −0.321, P < 0.001) in linear regression analyses. Multiple regression analyses yielded similar results.

Discussion

In people with T2DM, ertugliflozin treatment improved fasting β‐cell function, but no effect on postprandial β‐cell function was observed in this analysis. Improvement in HOMA‐%β was predicted by high baseline FPG, HbA1c, HOMA‐IR, and low baseline HOMA‐%β, and mediated by ertugliflozin treatment, and improved HbA1c and body weight.
The Longer‐Term Impact of COVID‐19 on K–12 Student Learning and Assessment
Authors: Middleton Kyndra V.
Published: July 2020

Due to the precipitous onset of the coronavirus disease, teachers and students across the nation were thrust into a new environment, and the impact of this new experience will be felt both shorter and longer term. This academic year saw “test pollution” with the switch to online instruction, and student learning was significantly impacted by stress, anxiety, illness, being forced to learn in a vastly different method than previously experienced, and the increased potential to fall behind due to lack of access to materials. Classroom assessment, teaching and learning, and measurement and interpretation of student growth are among the numerous areas that have been affected by the sudden switch of schools to online instruction that will require much thought in order to examine the impact of the significant deviation from the classroom norms on which much of previous research has been based. Educators, educational researchers, and policymakers have been presented with a challenge that does not have a definitive answer. There are many unknowns that remain as schools plan to move forward with instruction. However, through collaboration, the knowledge that each of these professionals can contribute ensures that adequate decisions will be made that will benefit all students equitably.
Important Considerations for Assessment to Function in the Service of Education
Authors: Pellegrino James W.
Published: July 2020

Professor Gordon argues for a significant reorientation in the focus and impact of assessment in education. For the types of assessment activities that he advocates to prosper and positively impact education, serious attention must be paid to two important topics: (1) the conceptual underpinnings of the assessment practices we develop and use to support learning and instruction, and (2) the arguments and evidence we establish for their validity given the intended interpretive use. Such a focus highlights fundamental concepts that have long existed in the broader assessment literature – carefully defining and operationalizing our constructs and then validating the assessments of those constructs. What differs now are the conceptual frameworks, briefly outlined here, that can and must be used to guide both aspects of such work.
Toward an environmental predictor of tuna recruitment
Authors: Woodworth‐Jefcoats Phoebe A. , Wren Johanna L. K.
Published: July 2020

Bigeye tuna are of global economic importance and are the primary target species of Hawaii's most valuable commercial fishery. Due to their high commercial value, bigeye tuna are relatively well studied and routinely assessed. Larval and adult bigeye surveys have been conducted for many years and are supported by ongoing research on their physiology and life history. Yet, modeling stock dynamics and estimating future catch rates remain challenging. Here, we show that an appropriately lagged measure of phytoplankton size is a robust predictor of catch rates in Hawaii's bigeye tuna fishery with a forecast window of four years. We present a fishery‐independent tool with the potential to improve stock assessments, aid dynamic fisheries management, and allow Hawaii's commercial longline fishing industry to better plan for the future.
Risk of deep venous thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty in patients with haemophilia A
Authors: Ono Kumiko , Takedani Hideyuki
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Venous thromboprophylaxis remains controversial in patients with haemophilia undergoing major orthopaedic surgery, due to clotting factor replacement therapy to correct the patient's inherent haemostatic defect during procedure, at least in theory. We have previously reported that deep venous thrombosis (DVT) was not detected on ultrasonography (US) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in 36 Japanese patients with haemophilia.

Aim

To evaluate the prevalence of DVT after TKA among haemophilic A patients using not only US, but also contrast‐enhanced CT prospectively.

Methods

This study enrolled 11 TKAs in 11 Japanese patients with haemophilia A not having any history of inhibitor. A pneumatic compression device was used from the beginning of the operation until the patient could perform standing exercises (day 2). US of the lower extremities was performed before and after surgery (day 2) to detect DVT. Contrast‐enhanced CT was performed after surgery (day 7) to detect VTE. D‐dimer was measured at pre‐ and postoperative time.

Results

Mean (±standard deviation) age at the time of operation was 50.5 ± 12.3 years. DVT was not found on either pre‐ or postoperative examinations by US, but contrast‐enhanced CT was detected DVT in two cases. No patients showed clinical signs for VTE during hospitalization, and no additional treatment for VTE. No episodes of unexpected bleeding were encountered.

Conclusion

Contrast‐enhanced CT detected DVT in 18% of haemophilia A patients who underwent TKA despite no detection of DVT on US. We must consider how to prevent and treat VTE in patients with haemophilia scheduled to undergo orthopaedic surgery.
Evaluations of Return Within A Mass Deportation: Ethiopians’ Experiences of Return After Expulsion From Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kuschminder Katie , Ogahara Zoë , Rajabzadeh Iman
Published: July 2020

This article seeks to understand the role of the migration lifecycle in the subjective evaluation of return by Ethiopian deportees from Saudi Arabia, focusing on the conditions that lead to positive evaluation of the return. Logistic regression analysis was carried out on a unique data set of 2,039 Ethiopian deportees from Saudi Arabia collected in 2014. Despite having been deported, 45 per cent of respondents evaluate their return positively. It is found that subjective socio‐economic position is highly influential in returnees’ assessment of their reintegration, but those who are self‐employed on return are much less likely than those who are unemployed to describe their return positively. This may be linked to work conditions and because these respondents are engaged in necessity entrepreneurship. Additionally, all stages of the migration cycle, including before and during the migration episode, are influential in shaping perceptions of return.
Creative Recourse in Cases of Forced Labour: Using Human Trafficking, Human Rights and Labour Law to Protect Migrant Workers
Authors: Matte Guilmain Laurence , Hanley Jill
Published: July 2020

Canada has no legislation prohibiting forced labour, relying instead on human trafficking penal dispositions; the two are intimately related. However, there has only been one conviction for human trafficking for the purposes of forced labour. Here, we offer an analysis of jurisprudence according to a model of labour trafficking focusing on the intersection of labour exploitation and coercion, particularly among migrant workers. We argue that Canadian human trafficking law remains incomplete and fails to address situations of forced labour. There is a need to think creatively about recourses. Labour and human rights law recourses are more accessible to migrant workers than human trafficking law, given the lighter burden of proof and the unlikelihood that courts will recognize the systemic coercion to which migrant workers are subject. Workers and advocates are understandably drawn to these alternative recourses, yet consequences for employers profiting from forced labour are disappointingly minor.
Young adult’s perception towards the formation of stigma on people experiencing mental health conditions: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Roslee Nur Leeyana Binte , Goh Yong Shian
Published: July 2020

Perpetuated by negative perceptions of mental illnesses, mental health has remained a taboo subject in Asia. This in turn leads to perceived discrimination among people experiencing mental health conditions, due to which they become withdrawn and secretive, making it more challenging for them to seek help. Studies have explored possible reasons affecting societal perception of those with such conditions. The results, however, have been inconclusive on how young adults would perceive them. Through a qualitative descriptive approach and one‐to‐one interviews, this study explored societal perception towards people experiencing mental health conditions in Singapore by involving 22 adults aged 21 to 29 residing locally. The interviews were conducted with a semi‐structured question guide developed through a literature review. Data were analysed through Braun and Clark’s six‐step thematic analysis. The results reveal three distinctive themes that have influenced such societal perception: (i) how views are formed; (ii) the illness does not represent the person; and (iii) complex experiences of family and loved ones. The holistic analysis herein enriches the current understanding of societal perceptions on how stigma is formed towards people experiencing mental health conditions. This would equip mental health professionals with the necessary information in devising measures to reduce stigmatization. Furthermore, families, employers, and students who constitute the future generation should be more engaged in this process, since a more tolerant and less discriminatory society will mean fewer obstacles for those with such conditions when attempting to reintegrate into the society. The study followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies 32‐item checklist.
Self‐disgust and stigma both mediate the relationship between stoma acceptance and stoma care self‐efficacy
Authors: Jin Yanfei , Ma Hongmei , Jiménez‐Herrera Maria
Published: July 2020

Aim

This paper is a report of a study exploring the relationship between stoma acceptance and stoma care self‐efficacy in patients with colostomy and whether self‐disgust and stigma play mediating roles in this relationship.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey design.

Method

In all, 476 participants were recruited from a tertiary hospital and completed structured, anonymous, self‐report measures of stoma acceptance, self‐disgust, stigma, and stoma care self‐efficacy between January 2016‐March 2017.

Results

Stoma acceptance was significantly negatively associated with personal disgust (r = −.640, p<.001), behavioural disgust (r = −.384, p<.001), and stigma (r = −.309, p<.001) and significantly positively associated with stoma care self‐efficacy (r = .689, p<.001). Furthermore, regression‐based mediation modelling showed that personal disgust and stigma had significant mediating effects on stoma acceptance and stoma care self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

We demonstrated, for the first time, that emotional responses (self‐disgust and stigma) play important roles in the association between stoma acceptance and stoma care self‐efficacy. Addressing concerns about emotional disorder should become part of the routine care for patients with stoma.

Impact

Patients with colostomy must cope with many challenges and undergo profound changes in daily life. Acceptance of the existence of the stoma and effective management of the stoma can aid patients in the return to a full and active life. Illness acceptance and psychological states have been widely reported to be correlates of the ability to successfully reconstitute a meaning of life, but these have not been specifically explored in patients with colostomy. This study examined the effect of stoma acceptance on stoma care self‐efficacy with the mediation role of self‐disgust and stigma. Evidence of the relationship between illness acceptance and self‐efficacy could offer practitioners to consider emotional factors like self‐disgust and stigma when aiming to improve stoma care and management.
Both cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events are decreased following long‐term narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in patients with vitiligo: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Bae J.M. , Kim Y.‐S. , Choo E.H. , Kim M.‐Y. , Lee J.Y. , Kim H.‐O. , Park Y.M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Systemic effects of long‐term narrowband ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) phototherapy have not been well studied in vitiligo patients. An 11‐year nationwide population‐based retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Korean National Health Insurance claims database (2007–2017).

Objectives

To investigate the effects of long‐term NB‐UVB phototherapy on the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in vitiligo patients.

Methods

This study included vitiligo patients with ≥100 phototherapy sessions (phototherapy group, n = 3229) and <3 phototherapy sessions (no phototherapy group, n = 9687), in which covariables with age, sex, insurance type and comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia were matched by 1 : 3 propensity score matching. The outcomes of interest were cardiovascular (ischaemic heart disease and myocardial infarction) and cerebrovascular events (cerebrovascular infraction and haemorrhage). Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the associations between NB‐UVB phototherapy and each event.

Results

The risk of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events was significantly decreased in the phototherapy group compared with the no phototherapy group [hazard ratio (HR) 0.637, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.523–0.776]. Subgroup analysis revealed that the risk of cardiovascular (HR: 0.682, 95% CI: 0.495–0.940) and cerebrovascular events (HR: 0.601, 95% CI: 0.470–0.769) were significantly lower in the phototherapy group than the no phototherapy group, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that long‐term NB‐UVB phototherapy could decrease the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients with vitiligo.
The first casualty of an epidemic is evidence
Authors: Hofmann Bjørn
Published: July 2020

Background

The COVID‐19 has posed a wide range of urgent questions: about the disease, testing, immunity, treatments, and outcomes. Extreme situations, such as pandemics, call for exceptional measures. However, this threatens the production and application of evidence.

Methods

This article applies standard categories in epistemology to analyse the pandemic in terms of four kinds of uncertainty: Risk, Fundamental uncertainty, Ignorance, and Ambiguity.

Results

Mapping the uncertainties of the pandemic onto the four types of uncertainty directs evidence production towards specific tasks in order to address the challenges of the pandemic: Eliminating ambiguity, being alert to the unknown, and gathering data to estimate risks are crucial to preserve evidence and save lives.

Conclusion

In order to avoid fake facts and to provide sustainable solutions, we need to pay attention to the various kinds of uncertainty. Producing high‐quality evidence is the solution, not the problem.
Sex differences in heel pad stiffness during in vivo loading and unloading
Authors: Ugbolue Ukadike C. , Yates Emma L. , Wearing Scott C. , Gu Yaodong , Lam Wing‐Kai , Valentin Stephanie , Baker Julien S. , Dutheil Frédéric , Sculthorpe Nicholas F.
Published: July 2020

Due to conflicting data from previous studies a new methodological approach to evaluate heel pad stiffness and soft tissue deformation has been developed. The purpose of this study was to compare heel pad (HP) stiffness in both limbs between males and females during a dynamic unloading and loading activity. Ten males and 10 females volunteered to perform three dynamic trials to unload and load the HP. The dynamic protocol consisted of three continuous phases: foot flat (baseline phase), bilateral heel raise (unloading phase) and foot flat (loading phase) with each phase lasting two seconds. Six retroreflective markers (3 mm) were attached to the skin of the left and right heels using a customised marker set. Three‐dimensional motion analysis cameras synchronised with force plates collected the kinematic and kinetic data throughout the trials. Three‐way repeated measures ANOVA together with a Bonferroni post hoc test were applied to the stiffness and marker displacement datasets. On average, HP stiffness was higher in males than females during the loading and unloading phases. ANOVA results revealed no significant differences for the stiffness and displacement outputs with respect to sex, sidedness or phase interactions (p > .05) in the X, Y and Z directions. Irrespective of direction, there were significant differences in stiffness between the baseline and unloading conditions (p < .001) but no significant differences between the baseline and loaded conditions (p = 1.000). Post hoc analyses for the marker displacement showed significant differences between phases for the X and Z directions (p < .032) but no significant differences in the Y direction (p > .116). Finally, females portrayed lower levels of mean HP stiffness whereas males had stiffer heels particularly in the vertical direction (Z) when the HP was both unloaded and loaded. High HP stiffness values and very small marker displacements could be valuable indicators for the risk of pathological foot conditions.
Instrumental diagnosis of facial skin—A necessity or a pretreatment recommendation in esthetic medicine
Authors: Kawałkiewicz Weronika , Matthews‐Kozanecka Maja , Janus‐Kubiak Marta , Kubisz Leszek , Hojan‐Jezierska Dorota
Published: July 2020

Background

This paper presents the possibilities of pretreatment instrumental diagnosis for assessing the condition of various facial skin areas.

Aim

Tests which aimed at determining the firmness and elasticity of facial skin were conducted.

Methods

Analysis of skin parameters in selected facial areas in adults over a wide age range was performed using the Cutometer Dual MPA 580 probe. Parameters R0, R2, R5, R7, R8, and R9 were analyzed.

Results

The following results were obtained: R0 (0.20‐0.33) mm; R2 (0.66‐0.82) a.u.; R5 (0.60‐0.92) a.u.; R7 (0.37‐0.52) a.u.; R8 (0.10‐0.27) mm; and R9 (0.03‐0.05) mm. The R0 parameter showed no statistically significant correlation between skin firmness and age. On the basis of the other parameters, it can be concluded that skin elasticity and an ability to return to its original shape around the eyes, on the cheeks and around the lips, are greater in younger patients than in older groups. There were no statistically significant differences within each age group between the right and left sides of the face.

Conclusion

Skin firmness described by the R0 parameter is constant in the studied groups and independent of age. Skin elasticity, and an ability to return to its original shape around the eyes, on the cheeks and around the lips, is greater in younger patients. The aging process simultaneously affects the entire facial skin.
Inter‐rater reliability of “clean cup” scores by coffee experts
Authors: Giacalone Davide , Steen Ida , Alstrup Jesper , Münchow Morten
Published: July 2020

Cupping scores from experts are extensively used in the coffee industry for a variety of applications, from quality control to judging coffee competitions. In this paper, we examined inter‐rater reliability (IRR) of “clean cup” ratings by coffee experts (“cuppers”) in two studies. In both studies, IRR reliability was found to be low, denoting a lack of concept alignment among experts. Remarkably, however, within‐assessor reproducibility was high, suggesting that expert cuppers have their own individual understanding of “clean cup.”

Practical applications

The results presented suggested that “clean cup” scores have a fundamentally subjective nature. Since cupping scores are routinely used to drive business decisions (particularly in the context of quality control), it would be advisable that such attributes be anchored in a precise definition (in the case of “clean cup” of what constitute a defect from a sensory point of view) developed based on properly conducted sensory studies.
Differential gene expression in soybean infected by Phakopsora pachyrhizi in response to acibenzolar‐S‐methyl, jasmonic acid and silicon
Authors: Cruz Maria Fernanda Antunes , Pinto Marcos Oliveira , Barros Everaldo Gonçalves , Rodrigues Fabrício Ávila
Published: July 2020

Asian soybean rust (ASR), caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi, has negatively impacted soybean production worldwide. This study evaluated the effect of foliar spray of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl (ASM) and jasmonic acid (JA) as well as silicon (Si) supplied, either by soil amendment using calcium silicate or through a nutrient solution, on ASR control as well as on the expression of some defence‐related genes (phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), chitinase (CHI), chalcone isomerase (CHAL), lipoxygenase (LOX), pathogenesis‐related protein 1 (PR‐1) and metalloproteinase (MET)) in soybean plants infected or not by P. pachyrhizi. Foliar Si concentration ranged from 2.6 to 8.7 dag/kg for Si supply by soil application or through a nutrient solution in comparison with the control treatment (no Si supply). Higher foliar Si concentration contributed to reducing ASR severity greater than 30%, mainly if supplied through nutrient solution. The ASR severity was significantly reduced by 36% with the ASM spray in comparison with the control treatment without any expressive effect on the expression of the analysed genes. The JA spray did not result in reduction on ASR severity in comparison with the control treatment even though with higher transcript levels of PAL at 12 hai. The transcripts levels of MET and PAL were significantly higher for inoculated plants taking up Si from the soil in comparison to non‐inoculated plants of this treatment at 72 hai. For Si supply through the nutrient solution (+Si plants), the transcripts levels of LOX and CHAL were significantly higher for inoculated plants in comparison to inoculated ‐Si ones at 12 hai. At 141 hai, the transcript level of PAL was significantly higher for inoculated + Si plants in comparison to inoculated ‐Si ones. In conclusion, Si supply contributed decisively to reduce ASR severity through the potentiation of some defence‐related genes mainly PAL and CHAL involved, respectively, in the biosynthesis of phenolics and flavonoids.
Smart Products: Conceptual Review, Synthesis, and Research Directions*
Authors: Raff Stefan , Wentzel Daniel , Obwegeser Nikolaus
Published: July 2020

Smart products have received increasing attention from researchers and practitioners alike. One limitation of the existing literature, however, is that the term is often used as a blanket term and that there is no consensus on what a smart product actually is. Because different studies rely on differing conceptualizations, the current body of knowledge is scattered and lacks a uniform language and conceptual boundaries. Specifically, existing research has subsumed inherently different products under one collective term, has relied on a multitude of ad hoc criteria to define smart products or has conflated smart products with the services they render and/or the wider ecosystem, in which they operate. These developments limit the systematic advancement of the field and impede the integration of the smart product concept into related concepts such as the Internet of Things. To address these issues, this article provides an extensive analysis of the status quo of the field, with the goal of developing a common language and comprehensive conceptualization of smart products. First, existing studies on smart products were systematically reviewed across contributing disciplines and supplemented with a bibliometric analysis that allowed for a deeper understanding of the smart product concept within and across disciplines. This analysis revealed an initial set of 16 capability‐based criteria that are currently applied to conceptualize smart products. Second, based on a systematic coding procedure, these criteria were synthesized and organized within a comprehensive framework delineating four distinct product archetypes for the digital age: (1) Digital, (2) Connected, (3) Responsive, and (4) Intelligent. Third, three major conceptual themes that arise from this framework are identified and possibilities for future research are pointed out. In sum, this work contributes to the literature by improving the understanding of smart products as an epistemic object and by laying the ground for more cumulative research endeavors.
Comparative Quantitative Proteomics Reveals the Desiccation Stress Responses of the Intertidal Seaweed NEOPORPHYRA haitanensis
Authors: Wang Dongmei , You Wuxin , Chen Nianci , Cao Min , Tang Xianghai , Guan Xiaowei , Qu Weihua , Chen Rui , Mao Yunxiang , Poetsch Ansgar
Published: July 2020

Neoporphyra haitanensis is an economically important red seaweed that inhabits upper intertidal zones. The thallus tolerates extreme fluctuating environmental stresses (e.g., surviving more than 80% water loss during low tides). To elucidate the global molecular responses relevant to this outstanding desiccation tolerance, a quantitative proteomics analysis of N. haitanensis under different desiccation treatments as well as rehydration was performed. According to the clustering of expression patterns and the functional interpretation of the 483 significantly differentially expressed proteins, a three‐stage cellular response to desiccation stress and subsequent rehydration was proposed. Stage I: at the beginning of water loss, multiple signal transduction pathways were triggered including lipid signaling, protein phosphorylation cascades, and histone acetylation controlling acetate biosynthesis to further modulate downstream hormone signaling. Protein protection by peptidyl‐prolyl isomerase and ROS scavenging systems were also immediately switched on. Stage II: with the aggravation of stress, increases in antioxidant systems, the accumulation of LEA proteins, and the temporary biosynthesis of branched starch were observed. Multiple enzymes involved in redox homeostasis, including peroxiredoxin, thioredoxin, ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase, were hypothesized to function in specific cellular compartments. Stage III: when the desiccated thalli had rehydrated for 30 mins, photosynthesis and carbon fixation were recovered, and antioxidant activities and protein structure protection were maintained at a high level. This work increases the understanding of the molecular responses to environmental stresses via a proteomic approach in red seaweeds and paves the way for further functional studies and genetic engineering.
A predictive model for hepatitis B infection among high‐risk adults using a community‐based sample in greater Philadelphia
Authors: Freeland Catherine , Vader Daniel , Cohen Chari , George Brandon
Published: July 2020

Liver cancer is the 3rd deadliest cancer worldwide, with 5‐year survival rates of only 15%. In the United States, liver cancer incidence and death rates are increasing at a faster rate than any other cancer and are projected to continue to rise through at least 2030. A significant proportion of these liver cancer cases are due to hepatitis B virus (HBV). Community‐based screening is a public health practice working to identify individuals who are living with HBV in underserved communities, particularly Asian American, Pacific Islander and African immigrant populations. This data set includes a total of 3019 individuals considered high risk for HBV tested at community‐based testing events between 2008 and 2019. Descriptive results revealed HBV infection rate was 7.9% (N = 229), and 59% (N = 1704) had protective antibodies against HBV. To account for missingness in the data, multiple imputation was preformed and followed by logistic regression to create a predictive model. The results support an association between insurance status and HBV infection in the predictive model. Participant region of origin was also significantly related to HBV infection, and participants who immigrated from the Western Pacific and African World Organization designated regions had higher odds of infection compared to participants from the Americas. Results emphasize the need to continue to expand testing in high‐risk populations for HBV.
Genetic variant rs72613567 of HSD17B13 gene reduces alcohol‐related liver disease risk in Chinese Han population
Authors: Chen Haizhen , Zhang Yanfang , Guo Tongsheng , Yang Funing , Mao Yuanli , Li Liubing , Liu Chenxi , Gao Haidi , Jin Yuting , Che Yuanyuan , Li Yongzhe , Huang Jing
Published: July 2020

Background & Aims

Recently, the variant rs72613567:TA in the 17‐beta‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 13 (HSD17B13) has been associated with reduced levels of ALT and AST and a reduced risk of alcohol‐related liver disease (ALD) in the European population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between the polymorphisms of HSD17B13 and ALD, liver serum markers and patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) p.I148M in the Chinese Han population.

Methods

A case‐control study was performed from five centres and included 769 ALD patients and 767 healthy controls. Two SNPs (rs72613567 and rs6834314) in HSD17B13 were genotyped using the Sequenom MassArray system and allele association analysis was performed using PLINK 1.90 software.

Results

HSD17B13 rs72613567:TA allele was associated with a reduced risk of ALD by 19% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05‐0.31, P = .01), uniformly, the G allele in the rs6834314 reduced the risk of ALD by 19% (95% CI: 0.05‐0.31, P = 8.28 × 10−3). And the genotypes of two SNPs were associated with reducing the risk of ALD in three genetic model analysis. In addition, we found that TA allele was associated with lower levels of serum ALT, AST and GGT (P = .005, .007 and .02, respectively), higher level of serum ALB (P = .02), but not associated with ALP. In this cohort, the interaction between HSD17B13 rs72613567 and the steatogenic allele PNPLA3 rs738409 was not validated.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that HSD17B13 rs72613567 was significantly associated with a reduced risk of ALD in Chinese Han population.
Dominican Ditchling and Herbert Mccabe's Sacramental Politics: Backwards to a Radical Future
Authors: O'Brien Nick
Published: July 2020

This article reconsiders the lay Dominican community of artisans which gathered in Ditchling, Sussex, in the 1920s. It does so by situating Ditchling in its distinctively Dominican context and by relating it to a form of sacramental politics powerfully evoked in the work of Herbert McCabe OP. In this way, it aims to reaffirm the continuing political-theological relevance of aspects of Ditchling, and to assert a measure of continuity with the Catholic New Left of the 1960s, with which Herbert McCabe is associated. The article identifies Ditchling's distinctively Dominican charism in a concern for contemplation, liturgy, and the regular life, alongside an aesthetic that brings together art, sacrament, and preaching, and relates such priorities to wider debate within the Dominican Order. These concerns are related to themes in McCabe's work on the relationship between Church, world, and community within the broader context of a theological politics that is both radical and sacramental. The article concludes that Ditchling's perceived ‘otherworldliness’ deserves re-evaluation, and that in the light of McCabe's sacramental politics Ditchling was not, in fact, quite ‘otherworldly’ enough.
Low Back Pain Induced by Posterior Longitudinal Ligament Incision in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy
Authors: Lin Wei , Ma Wen‐ting , Xue Yuan
Published: July 2020

Objective

To illustrate the posterior longitudinal ligament is one of the tissue candidates who can contribute to low back pain (LBP).

Methods

This is a retrospective study. A series of 72 patients who underwent single‐level percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy performed for lumbar disc herniation with LBP from June 2014 to June 2016 were examined. There are 42 males and 30 females. The ages of patients were 40 to 57 years, and the mean age was 49.8 years. The symptomatic disc level was at L4‐5 in 43 patients and L5S1 in 29 patients. Thirty‐two patients (19 patients in L4‐5 disc level, 13 patients in L5S1 disc level) had LBP (which was limited to the lower back and buttock area) before the operation. All of the operative approaches were performed under local anesthesia. A posterior body diagram (15 cm × 10 cm) was made for this study to record the pain distribution. The centered foci of low back pain were subjectively recorded before, during, and after the operation. The transforaminal endoscopic spine system technology was used in this study. Radiological examinations (X‐ray, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging) were performed prior to and after surgery. The Visual Analogue Score (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were taken before and after the surgery to observe the degree of pain. The VSA and ODI score before and after operation were expressed as mean ± SD, and compared by t‐test for statistical analysis.

Results

When inciting the posterior longitudinal ligament during the operation, all 72 patients had provoked low back pain. Forty‐three patients with symptomatic discs at L4‐5 had pain foci in the lower back and upper gluteal region under the L4 spinous process. Twenty‐nine patients with symptomatic discs at L5S1 had pain foci in the gluteal region under the S1 spinous process. The pain localizations of L4‐5 and L5S1 were different. After the surgery, the provoked low back pain disappeared, and had not returned in any of the patients at the 6‐month follow‐up. After the operation, one patient suffered from lower limb pain that he did not have before the operation, and the lower limb pain abated a few days later. Three patients had cerebrospinal fluid leakage and were treated with higher pressure applied on the incision and bed rest for 10 days. During the 6‐months follow‐up period, the mean VAS decreased from 5.97 ± 1.10 to 2.13 ± 0.78. The mean ODI score decreased from 23.14 ± 3.28 to 7.92 ± 1.85.

Conclusions

The intervertebral posterior longitudinal ligament may be one of the tissues from which low back pain originates.
Impaired left ventricular global longitudinal strain improves with radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients with PVC‐induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Koca Hasan , Koca Fadime , Icen Yahya Kemal , Demirtas Abdullah Orhan , Aslan Muhammed Zubeyir , Sumbul Hilmi Erdem , Coskun Mükremin , Erdoğdu Tayfur , Koc Mevlut
Published: July 2020

Background

In our study, we aimed to evaluate left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV‐GLS) value in patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and to determine the effect of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) procedure on LV‐GLS.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 150 patients who underwent three‐dimensional RFA with the diagnosis of PVCs were included. LV‐GLS was measured with strain echocardiography in all patients before RFA and in the sixth‐month control. Patients included in the study were grouped as LVEF <50% (Group I) and LVEF ≥50% (Group II) according to baseline LVEF, and patients within Group I were grouped as LVEF <50% (Group A) and LVEF ≥50% (Group B) according to the sixth‐month LVEF.

Results

There were 39 patients (26%) with baseline LVEF <50%. In 14 (36%) of these patients, LVEF <50% was observed to continue during the sixth‐month controls. Both the baseline and sixth‐month LV‐GLS values were significantly lower in Group I patients (<0.01). RFA treatment significantly increased both LVEF and LV‐GLS (<0.01). It was found that age, N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide, LV diameters, and baseline LVEF were higher, and baseline LV‐GLS level was lower in Group A patients (P < .01). Baseline LVEF and LV‐GLS values were found to independently determine the patients in Group A (P < .01). In receiver operator characteristic analysis, when the limit value is accepted as 40% for baseline LVEF and 18% for baseline LV‐GLS, it can determine Group A with acceptable sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

LV‐GLS decreases significantly in patients with reduced LVEF and PVCs. In these patients, RFA treatment significantly increases both LVEF and LV‐GLS.
Hydromorphone population pharmacokinetics in pediatric surgical patients
Authors: Balyan Rajiv , Dong Min , Pilipenko Valentina , Geisler Kristie , Vinks Alexander A. , Chidambaran Vidya
Published: July 2020

Background

Hydromorphone is an opioid agonist used for pediatric analgesia. Due to lack of data, pediatric dosing (based on adult pharmacokinetic models) is not optimal.

Aim

This study characterizes hydromorphone population pharmacokinetics in pediatric surgical patients.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, 34 children (4‐18 years, bodyweight 23‐89.6 kg) received multiple intravenous hydromorphone boluses followed by postoperative hydromorphone patient‐controlled analgesia. Arterial blood samples were collected before and at 3, 10, 30, and 90 (and few samples at 1350) minutes after the first dose. Hydromorphone concentrations were measured by validated LC‐MS/MS assay. Nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling was used for pharmacokinetic model development. The final population pharmacokinetic model was evaluated by visual predictive check and bootstrap analysis. Monte Carlo simulations based on the final pharmacokinetic model determined optimal patient‐controlled analgesia parameters to achieve a target of 20 ng/mL (as the median effective analgesic concentration), using minimum effective analgesic concentration of 4 ng/mL as a proxy for patient‐controlled analgesia dose demand, and not exceeding the defined safe upper threshold of 40 ng/mL.

Results

Hydromorphone pharmacokinetic profiles were adequately described by a two‐compartmental model with first‐order elimination. Bodyweight was found to be a significant covariate for hydromorphone clearance. Allometrically scaledpharmacokinetic parameter estimates (per 70 kg), systemic clearance (0.748 L/min), volume of distribution (33 L), peripheral clearance (1.57 L/min), and peripheral volume of distribution (146 L) were similar to reported adult parameter estimates. Sex, race, age, and type of surgery were not identified as significant covariates. To identify optimal patient‐controlled analgesia dosing parameters, we simulated several initial loading doses, demand doses, and lockout intervals. Our simulations support an initial patient‐controlled analgesia loading dose of 15 µg/kg followed by a demand dose of 6 µg/kg with lockout intervals of 20 minutes.

Conclusions

After intravenous hydromorphone, plasma pharmacokinetic profiles in children undergoing different surgeries were well described by a two‐compartment population allometric pharmacokinetic model using bodyweight as the size descriptor. Model informed simulations identified patient‐controlled analgesia parameters to inform initial settings, with adjustments as needed based on observed individual effects.
A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study Comparing the Efficacy of Pulsed Radiofrequency Combined With Exercise Versus Exercise Alone in Pain Relief and Functional Improvement for Chronic Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Han Qi , Ma Yantao , Jia Peiyu , Wang Xiaolei , Wang Bo , Zheng Yongjun
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To compare the long‐term efficacy between pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) combined with passive stretching (PRF‐PS) exercise and PS exercise alone in reducing pain and improving quadriceps muscle strength and knee function.

Methods

Sixty‐two participants were randomly assigned with a 1:1 allocation to the PRF‐PS exercise group or the PS exercise group. Level of pain, muscle strength, and knee function were assessed from baseline to the first, third, and sixth months after treatment using the VAS, peak torque (PT), and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), respectively.

Results

There were no significant differences at baseline between the 2 groups. Compared to exercise alone, participants achieved superior efficacy with PRF‐PS in pain relief, improvement of muscle strength, and knee function. Moreover, the improvement of all variables was maintained for a longer period of time in the PRF‐PS group. The reduction in participants’ VAS pain intensity scores was superior for PRF‐PS vs. PS with overall estimation (adjusted mean difference: −1.85 cm; 95% confidence interval [CI] −2.25, −1.45 cm; P = 0.000). The increase in participants’ PT scores was superior for PRF‐PS vs. PS with overall estimation (adjusted mean difference: 15.53 N. m; 95% CI 7.07, 23.98 N. m; P = 0.000; and 12.62 N. m; 95% CI 0.96, 24.28 N. m; P = 0.000 for PT 60 degrees/s and PT 180 degrees/s, respectively). The reduction in participants’ WOMAC scores was superior for PRF‐PS vs. PS with overall estimation (adjusted mean difference: −16.43; 95% CI −22.22, −10.64; P = 0.000).

Discussion

The improvement in pain relief and knee function might be associated with restoration of muscle strength after PRF‐PS exercise by overcoming muscle inhibition.
Pubertal outcomes of children transplanted with allogeneic stem cells after myeloablative total body irradiation or busulfan: Influence of age and sex is confirmed, while a role of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease in delayed puberty onset is revealed
Authors: Weinhard Sara , Wiedemann Arnaud , Leheup Bruno , Dalle Jean‐Hugues , Lebon Labich Béatrice , Pochon Cécile
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Myeloablative conditioning before allogeneic HSCT during childhood exposes to serious long‐term complications, especially gonadal dysfunction. Pubertal issues are less described than other post‐HSCT sequelae in childhood.

Methods

Pubertal development and biological gonadal parameters were assessed in a retrospective monocentric cohort of prepubertal patients who underwent HSCT after myeloablative conditioning with TBI or busulfan between 1981 and 2017.

Results

Seventy‐four patients (28 girls and 46 boys) were included. No spontaneous pubertal development was found in 50% of girls and 10% of boys (P < .001), and delayed puberty or no spontaneous pubertal development was found in 57% of girls and 24% of boys (P = .009). HRT was used in 82% of girls and 24% of boys (P < .001). In univariate analysis, TBI conditioning (P = .05), female sex (P < .001), acute GVHD (P = .05), extensive chronic GVHD (P = .021), steroid treatment >6 months (P = .016), and malignant diseases (P = .016) were associated with no spontaneous pubertal development, whereas TBI conditioning (P = .003) and extensive chronic GVHD (P = .005) were associated with delayed puberty. In multivariate analysis, factors independently associated with no spontaneous puberty onset were female sex (P = .001) and age >10 years (P = .033). Factors independently associated with delayed puberty were extensive chronic GVHD (P = .041) and age >10 years (P = .031).

Conclusion

This study highlighted the toxicity of MAC in prepubescent children: TBI did worse, but this was especially true for the most susceptible patients (girls, leukemic patients, and patients older than 10 years). It suggests a possible role of GVHD in delayed puberty.
Plant water uptake from soil through a vapor pathway
Authors: Vargas Ana I. , Schaffer Bruce , Sternberg Leonel da S. L.
Published: July 2020

Water uptake from the soil via a vapor pathway was tested. Viburnum suspensum L. plants were divided into: (1) irrigated, (2) drought with vapor and (3) drought without vapor treatments. Each plant was placed into a larger bucket containing deuterium‐labeled water as a vapor source (vapor treatment) or no water (drought and irrigation treatments). We also tested whether uptake via a vapor pathway could mitigate drought effects. Net CO2 assimilation (A), transpiration (E) and stomatal conductance (gs) were measured daily until the first visible signs of stress. Soil water content, stem water potential (Ψ) and the stable hydrogen isotope ratio (δ2H) of soil and plant xylem water were then measured in all treatments. We show that water is taken up by plants through the vapor phase in dry soils. The δ2H values of the soil water in the vapor treatment were highly enriched compared to the background isotope ratios of the non‐vapor exposed irrigated and drought treatments. Stem water δ2H values for the vapor treatment were significantly greater than those for irrigation and drought treatments not exposed to isotopically enriched vapor. In this experiment, movement of water to the plant via the vapor phase did not mitigate drought effects. A, E, plant Ψ and gs significantly decreased in the drought and vapor treatments relative to the controls, with no significant differences between vapor and drought treatments.
Risk of cancer incidence in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Lee Hong Yeul , Lee Jinwoo , Lee Chang‐Hoon , Han Kyungdo , Choi Sun Mi
Published: July 2020

This study revealed that patients with IPF have a higher cancer incidence risk than matched controls without IPF. Physicians should be aware of this risk when treating patients with IPF.
Estimating the effect of New Jersey’s 2005 administrative nurse mandate on mortality and hospitalizations for medicare hemodialysis patients
Authors: Schemenaur Michael , Norris Conor , Timmons Edward , Jacob Allan
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives

In 2005, the New Jersey Department of Health enacted a rule requiring that an administrator or designate always be present in a hemodialysis clinic and that the individual may not be involved in patient care activities at any time. Our investigation examines the effect of this unique rule on patient mortality and hospitalizations and is meant to inform the public policy discussion.

Design, setting, participants, and measurements

We utilized a synthetic control estimation to analyze the effect of this rule on patient mortality in New Jersey. We also compared trends for hospitalizations in New Jersey to other similar states.

Results

We find no evidence that the law affected patient mortality or the number of hospitalizations for Medicare patients in New Jersey.

Conclusions

The New Jersey law poses substantial costs to hemodialysis clinics and we find little evidence of any measurable benefit to patients.