bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk aversion and uncertainty create a conundrum for planning recovery of a critically endangered species
Authors: Canessa Stefano , Taylor Gemma , Clarke Rohan H. , Ingwersen Dean , Vandersteen James , Ewen John G.
Published: December 2019

Making transparent and rational decisions to manage threatened species in situations of high uncertainty is difficult. Managers must balance the optimism of successful intervention with the risk that intervention could make matters worse. We assessed nest protection options for regent honeyeaters (Anthochaera phrygia) in Australia. Formal expert elicitation highlighted two methods of nest protection expected to improve nest success. However, the risks and benefits of different actions were uncertain; for example, protecting nests from predators might also increase the risk of nest desertion by adults. To avoid risks, the recovery team opted to collect more information before implementation. The two methods of nest protection were compared using a field experiment. However, the same risk aversion limited the experiment to a single variable (nest predation) and dictated the use of artificial nests. The results of the experiment suggested neither action was likely to significantly reduce predation risks (<3% mean differences in survival between treatment and control). When presented with these results, managers made only minor revisions to their estimates; in part, this reflected low confidence by managers that artificial nests could reflect real predation risks. However, estimates were also revised more negatively for the initially less‐favored option, despite absence of such evidence, possibly highlighting confirmation bias. In this uncertain situation, the status quo was initially maintained although it was perceived as suboptimal; implementation of the preferred option (tree collars) is now planned for the 2019 breeding season. We faced what might be a common conundrum for conservation of critically endangered species. High uncertainty affects management decisions; however, perilous species status also leads to strong risk aversion, which limits both the willingness to act on limited information and the ability to learn effectively. Structured methods can increase transparency, facilitate evaluation, and assist decision making, but objective limitations and subjective attitudes cannot be circumvented entirely.
Genetic polymorphism in catechol‐O‐methyltransferase associated with the functional connectivity of frontostriatal circuits in first episode schizophrenia patients
Authors: Kang Yafei , Zhang Wei , Lv Yahui , Xu Hanxiao , Lin Yanyan , Cai Suping , Wang Jijun , Huang Liyu
Published: December 2019

Negative symptoms in schizophrenia have been associated with functional changes in frontostriatal pathways. Dysregulation of the dopamine signal in frontostriatal pathways leads to the symptomology observed in schizophrenia. Although the catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene, one of the susceptibility genes for schizophrenia, has been associated with dopamine activities in prefrontal and striatal regions, it is still unclear whether the disease state and COMT val158met genotype have an interaction effect on the functional connectivity of frontostriatal pathways. In this study, we evaluated the possible interactions between COMT val158met variations and the disease state on the resting‐state functional connectivity (RSFC) of frontostriatal pathways in fifty‐one first episode schizophrenia (FES) patients (val/val: 29, met +: 22) with prominent negative symptoms and forty‐eight healthy controls (val/val: 31, met +: 17). Regions of interest were defined by the result of a meta‐analysis of frontostriatal pathways using the Neurosynth database. We found a significant genotype × disease interaction effect on the RSFC between the bilateral anterior cingulate (ACC) and right caudate, which overlapped with the main effect of the disease state. Behavioural regression analysis suggested that RSFC between the right ACC and right caudate correlated with the severity of SANS avolition–apathy scores in patients who were met carriers but not in patients who were val homozygous. Our findings suggest that the RSFC of frontostriatal pathways may differentially affected by an individual's COMT val158met genotype.
The phenotypical implications of immune dysregulation in fragile X syndrome
Authors: Yu K.‐H. , Palmer N. , Fox K. , Prock L. , Mandl K. D. , Kohane I. S. , Prilutsky D.
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose

Immune system dysfunction and inflammatory dysregulation have been shown in several animal models of fragile X syndrome (FXS). However, the phenotypical implications of this dysregulation have not been systematically evaluated in a large patient cohort.

Methods

Five thousand seven hundred thirty‐six FXS patients from a nationwide health insurance database were identified and compared to 573 600 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. The phenome‐wide association studies codes of FXS patients and those without FXS were compared and the false discovery rate was controlled at 0.05 using the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure.

Results

In addition to the commonly reported comorbidities of FXS, an over‐representation of infectious diseases, including otitis media, cellulitis and abscess of fingers or toes, viral enteritis, candidiasis and pneumonia, was discovered. In addition, there was an under‐representation of autoimmune disorders in FXS patients.

Conclusions

Our systematic comorbidity analyses identified immunologically‐based phenotypes associated with FXS. Our findings align with previous observations of compromised immunity and phagocytic defects in animal models of FXS. These results suggest the importance of immune‐related pathways in FXS patients and their relevance to the FMR1 gene.
Trends in pediatric epilepsy surgery in Europe between 2008 and 2015: Country‐, center‐, and age‐specific variation
Authors: Barba Carmen , Cross Judith Helen , Braun Kees , Cossu Massimo , Klotz Kerstin Alexandra , De Masi Salvatore , Perez Jiménez Maria Angeles , Gaily Eija , Specchio Nicola , Cabral Pedro , Toulouse Joseph , Dimova Petia , Battaglia Domenica , Freri Elena , Consales Alessandro , Cesaroni Elisabetta , Tarta‐Arsene Oana , Gil‐Nagel Antonio , Mindruta Ioana , Di Gennaro Giancarlo , Giulioni Marco , Tisdall Martin M. , Eltze Christin , Tahir Muhammad Zubair , Jansen Floor , van Rijen Peter , Sanders Maurits , Tassi Laura , Francione Stefano , Lo Russo Giorgio , Jacobs Julia , Bast Thomas , Matta Giulia , Budke Marcelo , Fournier del Castillo Concepción , Metsahonkala Eeva‐Liisa , Karppinen Atte , Ferreira José Carlos , Minkin Krasimir , Marras Carlo Efisio ,   European Survey Group, Arzimanoglou Alexis , Guerrini Renzo
Published: December 2019

Objective

To profile European trends in pediatric epilepsy surgery (<16 years of age) between 2008 and 2015.

Methods

We collected information on volumes and types of surgery, pathology, and seizure outcome from 20 recognized epilepsy surgery reference centers in 10 European countries.

Results

We analyzed retrospective aggregate data on 1859 operations. The proportion of surgeries significantly increased over time (P < .0001). Engel class I outcome was achieved in 69.3% of children, with no significant improvement between 2008 and 2015. The proportion of histopathological findings consistent with glial scars significantly increased between the ages of 7 and 16 years (P for trend = .0033), whereas that of the remaining pathologies did not vary across ages. A significant increase in unilobar extratemporal surgeries (P for trend = .0047) and a significant decrease in unilobar temporal surgeries (P for trend = .0030) were observed between 2008 and 2015. Conversely, the proportion of multilobar surgeries and unrevealing magnetic resonance imaging cases remained unchanged. Invasive investigations significantly increased, especially stereo‐electroencephalography. We found different trends comparing centers starting their activity in the 1990s to those whose programs were developed in the past decade. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant variability of the proportion of the different pathologies and surgical approaches across countries, centers, and age groups between 2008 and 2015.

Significance

Between 2008 and 2015, we observed a significant increase in the volume of pediatric epilepsy surgeries, stability in the proportion of Engel class I outcomes, and a modest increment in complexity of the procedures.
Evaluation of component‐similar rotor steel specimens with a local probabilistic approach for LCF
Authors: Mäde Lucas , Kumar Kiran , Schmitz Sebastian , Gundavarapu Sesha , Beck Tilmann
Published: December 2019

Lately, a successful validation of a combined size and gradient effect modelling approach in a local probabilistic framework for LCF was published. A second validation study is here presented using LCF data of component‐similar specimens made of forged X12CrMoWVNbN10‐1‐1. It is found that a reasonable LCF crack initiation life prediction can be achieved by the local probabilistic model using single batch material parameters. However, the material parameters obtained from mixed batch LCF test data overestimate the actual material inherent LCF life scatter. Consequently, the size effect shift is pronounced too much, and the LCF life is predicted beyond crack initiation. Estimating the material parameters from a single batch data set instead results in a much less dispersed LCF life distribution and an approximately correct size effect shift. The predicted median Wöhler curve then corresponds to borehole‐specimen lives for initial cracks at the detection threshold. A reasonable prediction of technically relevant crack sizes in such inhomogeneous components requires additional modelling of stress gradient effects.
Identifying microbial life in rocks: Insights from population morphometry
Authors: Rouillard Joti , García-Ruiz Juan Manuel , Kah Linda , Gérard Emmanuelle , Barrier Laurie , Nabhan Sami , Gong Jian , van Zuilen Mark A.
Published: December 2019

The identification of cellular life in the rock record is problematic, since microbial life forms, and particularly bacteria, lack sufficient morphologic complexity to be effectively distinguished from certain abiogenic features in rocks. Examples include organic pore‐fillings, hydrocarbon‐containing fluid inclusions, organic coatings on exfoliated crystals and biomimetic mineral aggregates (biomorphs). This has led to the interpretation and re‐interpretation of individual microstructures in the rock record. The morphologic description of entire populations of microstructures, however, may provide support for distinguishing between preserved micro‐organisms and abiogenic objects. Here, we present a statistical approach based on quantitative morphological description of populations of microstructures. Images of modern microbial populations were compared to images of two relevant types of abiogenic microstructures: interstitial spaces and silica–carbonate biomorphs. For the populations of these three systems, the size, circularity, and solidity of individual particles were calculated. Subsequently, the mean/SD, skewness, and kurtosis of the statistical distributions of these parameters were established. This allowed the qualitative and quantitative comparison of distributions in these three systems. In addition, the fractal dimension and lacunarity of the populations were determined. In total, 11 parameters, independent of absolute size or shape, were used to characterize each population of microstructures. Using discriminant analysis with parameter subsets, it was found that size and shape distributions are typically sufficient to discriminate populations of biologic and abiogenic microstructures. Analysis of ancient, yet unambiguously biologic, samples (1.0 Ga Angmaat Formation, Baffin Island, Canada) suggests that taphonomic effects can alter morphometric characteristics and complicate image analysis; therefore, a wider range of microfossil assemblages should be studied in the future before automated analyses can be developed. In general, however, it is clear from our results that there is great potential for morphometric descriptions of populations in the context of life recognition in rocks, either on Earth or on extraterrestrial bodies.
Comparing rates of statin therapy in eligible patients living with HIV versus uninfected patients
Authors: Blackman AL , Pandit NS , Pincus KJ
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Despite an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in people living with HIV (PLWH), a gap in statin prescribing practices has been described for statin‐eligble PLWH and uninfected patients. Few data have become available characterizing this gap since the publication of the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association lipid guidelines. The objective of this study was to characterize statin prescribing rates for eligible PLWH compared to uninfected adults.

Methods

This was a retrospective, comparative analysis of patients seen at two clinics in an urban, academic medical system between February 2017 and September 2017. Patients who qualified for one of the statin benefit groups were included: those with a history of clinical ASCVD, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥ 190 mg/dL, diabetes mellitus, or 10‐year ASCVD risk score ≥ 7.5%. Patients < 21 years old or without a lipid panel within 3 years were excluded. The primary outcome was the percentage of PLWH prescribed a statin compared to uninfected patients. Predictors associated with receiving a statin were analysed using a logistic regression model.

Results

Nine hundred and eight PLWH and 2239 uninfected patients met the study criteria. A difference in statin prescribing rates was observed between PLWH and uninfected patients (44% versus 56%, respectively; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66–0.94). However, only in the 10‐year ASCVD risk group were the rates significantly different (24% for PLWH versus 36% for uninfected patients; adjusted OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.5–0.92). PLWH more often received a medium‐intensity statin and uninfected patients more often received a high‐intensity statin.

Conclusions

PLWH with ASCVD risk were less likely to be prescribed a statin compared to uninfected patients. Additional analyses are needed to investigate reasons for the statin prescribing gap and appropriateness of lipid agent selection in both study populations.
Oxidative stress in alopecia areata: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Acharya Prakash , Mathur Mahesh C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Several studies have investigated the oxidative stress parameters in alopecia areata (AA) patients with variable results. This study aims to analyze the association between oxidative stress and AA based on current literature.

Methods

A systematic review of the existing literature was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases by two authors independently. Mean and standard deviation values of oxidative stress parameters of AA patients and healthy controls were extracted for quantitative analysis.

Results

A total of 18 studies were included in the analysis. Patients with AA had impaired oxidative balance with elevated levels of serum malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and total oxidant capacity and lower levels of serum superoxide dismutase, paraoxonase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity. Levels of oxidative parameters were significantly higher in severe AA compared to mild/moderate AA. Heterogeneity in the baseline characteristics of the included studies and limited available data for most parameters were the limitations of this study.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that AA is associated with oxidative stress. More studies are needed to strengthen this association. Moreover, studies evaluating the role of antioxidant use in AA may be rewarding.
The metabolic formation profiles of macamides accompanied by the conversion of glucosinolates in maca (Lepidium meyenii) during natural air drying
Authors: Zhang Shao‐Zhi , Yang Fang , Shao Jin‐Liang , Pu Hong‐Mei , Ruan Zhen‐Yuan , Yang Wan‐Lin , Li Hong
Published: December 2019

Macamides, functional compounds found only in Lepidium meyenii Walpers, have gained interest in many fields of research due to its multiple bioactivities. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which macamides are synthesised is not thoroughly understood. In this study, the synthesis of six macamides and the conversion of three glucosinolates were studied systematically during a 6‐month natural air drying process. An investigation of synthesis profiles showed that the largest category of macamides, the major constituents of total macamides, has the same benzyl group as benzyl glucosinolate, which has higher content than other glucosinolates. The second largest group of macamides contains the same m‐methoxybenzyl group as m‐methoxybenzyl glucosinolate which is the second major constituent of total glucosinolates. The results from this study suggest that glucosinolates are one of the most important precursors of macamides. Compared with all other drying methods, natural air drying is the most suitable condition for the formation of macamides.
INGO affiliate’s dual legitimacy in institutional environments with multiple dimensions for social welfare practice: The case of an INGO in Taiwan and its affiliate in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Lin Hsin‐Mei , Huang Carol Shuling
Published: December 2019

The dual legitimacy of an international non‐governmental organisation (INGO) affiliate is critical to the INGO’s sustainable development, but few studies are found in the extant literature. Based on Kostova and Zaheer’s theoretical concept elaborating on organisational legitimacy under conditions of complexity, we conducted this study through the extended case method and used the grounded theory approach to examine the case study of the child organisation (CO) in Taiwan and its affiliate in Kyrgyzstan (CKO). Utilising an integrated framework elaborating on the INGO affiliate’s dual legitimacy (IADL), we examined the impact generated from the institutional environments in a multidimensional construct at the macro‐, meso‐, and microlevels. This study also explored the complexity of and interactions with the institutional environment that INGO affiliates might encounter. The findings of this study could serve as a guideline for INGO workers, policy makers and academicians.

Key Practitioner Message: • The first article applying the institutional theory and theory of organisational legitimacy on checking dual legitimacy of INGO affiliates through the case study of CO and CKO; • We examined the impact generating from the institutional environments with a multidimensional construct at the macro‐, meso‐, and microlevels through an integrated framework of INGO legitimacy from the perspective of the dual legitimacy that INGO affiliates face; • The findings of this study could be the resources of guideline for INGO workers, policy makers and academicians.
Heat dissipation behaviour of birds in seasonally hot arid‐zones: are there global patterns?
Authors: Pattinson Nicholas B. , Thompson Michelle L. , Griego Michael , Russell Grace , Mitchell Nicola J. , Martin Rowan O. , Wolf Blair O. , Smit Ben , Cunningham Susan J. , McKechnie Andrew E. , Hockey Philip A. R.
Published: December 2019

Quantifying organismal sensitivity to heat stress provides one means for predicting vulnerability to climate change. Birds are ideal for investigating this approach, as they display quantifiable fitness consequences associated with behavioural and physiological responses to heat stress. We used a recently developed method that examines correlations between readily‐observable behaviours and air temperature (Tair) to investigate interspecific variation in avian responses to heat stress in seasonally hot, arid regions on three continents: the southwestern United States, the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa and the Gascoyne region of western Australia. We found substantial interspecific variation in heat dissipation behaviours (wing‐drooping, panting, activity‐reduction, shade‐seeking) across all three regions. However, pooling the data revealed that little of this interspecific variation was systematically explained by organismal traits (foraging guild, diet, drinking dependency, body mass or activity levels) at the scale we tested. After accounting for phylogeny, we found that larger birds engaged in wing‐drooping behaviour at lower Tair and had lower activity levels at high Tair compared to smaller birds, indicating an effect of body mass on heat dissipation behaviour (HDB). In the Kalahari, reliance on drinking was correlated with significantly lower Tair at which panting commenced, suggesting a key role of water acquisition in HDB in that region. Birds also tended to retreat to shade at relatively lower Tair when more active, suggesting a behavioural trade‐off between activity, heat load and microsite selection. Our results imply that the causes underlying interspecific variation in heat dissipation behaviours are complex. While the variation we observed was not systematically explained by the broad scale organismal traits we considered, we predict that the indices themselves will still reflect vulnerability to potential fitness costs of high air temperatures. Further research is needed on a species‐specific basis to establish the functional significance of these indices.
MiR‐129‐5p promotes docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer by down‐regulating CAMK2N1 expression
Authors: Wu Cheng , Miao Chunqing , Tang Qingsheng , Zhou Xunrong , Xi Pengshan , Chang Ping'an , Hua Lixin , Ni Haodong
Published: December 2019

This study focuses on the effect of miR‐129‐5p on docetaxel‐resistant (DR) prostate cancer (PCa) cells invasion, migration and apoptosis. In our study, the expression of CAMK2N1 was assessed by qRT‐PCR in PCa patient tissues and cell lines including PC‐3 and PC‐3‐DR. Cells transfected with miR‐129‐5p mimics, inhibitor, CAMK2N1 or negative controls (NC) were used to interrogate their effects on DR cell invasions, migrations and apoptosis during docetaxel (DTX) treatments. The apoptosis rate of the PCa cells was validated by flow cytometry. Relationships between miR‐129‐5p and CAMK2N1 levels were identified by qRT‐PCR and dual‐luciferase reporter assay. CAMK2N1 was found to be down‐expressed in DR PCa tissue sample, and low levels of CAMK2N1 were correlated with high docetaxel resistance and clinical prediction of poor survival. CAMK2N1 levels were decreased in DR PCa cells treated with DXT. We further explored that up‐regulation of miR‐129‐5p could promote DR PCa cells viability, invasion and migration but demote apoptosis. Involved molecular mechanism studies revealed that miR‐129‐5p reduced downstream CAMK2N1 expression to further impact on chemoresistance to docetaxel of PCa cells, indicating its vital role in PCa docetaxel resistance. Our findings revealed that miR‐129‐5p contributed to the resistance of PC‐3‐DR cells to docetaxel through suppressing CAMK2N1 expression, and thus targeting miR‐129‐5p may provide a novel therapeutic approach in sensitizing PCa to future docetaxel treatment.
Awareness and practices of general practitioners towards the oral‐systemic disease relationship: A regionwide survey in France
Authors: Dubar Marie , Delatre Vincent , Moutier Cassandre , Sy Kadiatou , Agossa Kevimy
Published: December 2019

Rationale, aim, and objective

“Periodontal medicine” is based on evidence of interactions between periodontal disease and overall health. The aim of the present study was to assess awareness of oral‐systemic disease relationship among French general practitioners (GPs) and clarify how this influences their practices in a wider effort to better integrate oral health concerns into global health care delivery.

Method

GPs registered in the north of France were invited to complete an online self‐administered questionnaire through local divisions of the French Medical Board. The questionnaire was divided into four sections: socio‐demographic aspects, knowledge, practices, and an overview.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 253 GPs. Among these, 75% were aware of the association between periodontitis (PD) and diabetes, and 53% to 59% were aware of the impact of PD on cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, and respiratory infections. Few GPs identified PD as a possible risk factor of rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer disease (35.18% and <15%, respectively); 74.31% of GPs reported never asking their patients about their periodontal health. However, a personal history of PD and professional experiences seem to influence the medical practices of GPs to include oral examination. GPs largely self‐rated their knowledge of the oral‐systemic disease connection as being insufficient and were favourable to completing an up‐to‐date training course (86.56%).

Conclusion

French GPs' knowledge about the association of PD with systemic diseases seems to be fair, but discrepancies in their daily clinical routine were found. Promisingly, a positive attitude was observed towards improving their knowledge of oral‐systemic diseases link. These results indicate the importance to reinforce collaboration between medical doctors and oral health care specialists.
Hospital nurses and home care providers’ experiences of participation in nutritional care among older persons and their family caregivers: a qualitative study
Authors: Hestevik C. H. , Molin M. , Debesay J. , Bergland A. , Bye A.
Published: December 2019

Background

A person‐centred approach to nutritional care has the potential to increase an older person’s role in making informed decisions about their own care and possibly improving their quality of life. However, despite the considerable interest shown in person‐centred nutritional care in recent years, delivery of such care still appears to lack consideration for older persons’ needs and preferences. The present study aimed to explore healthcare professionals’ views on how older persons and their family caregivers participate in decisions about their own nutritional care and possible barriers for that participation.

Methods

Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 23 healthcare professionals in acute geriatric care and home care were conducted. Data were analysed thematically.

Results

The analysis of the interviews resulted in three main themes: (i) lack of shared decision‐making in nutritional care; (ii) conflict between patient’s preferences and standard nutritional care procedures; and (iii) the value of family caregivers who are seldom involved in nutritional care.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals were aware of the importance of actively engaging older persons and their family members in the nutritional care to achieve positive outcomes. However, they encountered individual and structural barriers, including resistance from patients and family caregivers, conflicts between the patients’ nutritional wishes and standard nutritional procedures, a wish to shield the family caregivers from the stress of caring for a sick relative, and lack of time and caring structures that facilitate the older persons and their family’s active participation.
Sensory changes and lipoprotein ratios in patients with brain cancers during cancer‐related therapy: A prospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kim Sanghee
Published: December 2019

Aim

To identify the sensory changes and lipoprotein ratios and their relationship in brain cancer patients during cancer‐related therapy (CRT).

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study with three observation times: before CRT, at 2–3 weeks, and 4–6 weeks after beginning CRT. The changes in patientsʼ symptoms were evaluated using the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale, and lipoprotein ratios were measured using total cholesterol/ high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol/HDL‐c, and triglyceride/HDL‐c at the three time points.

Results

Sensory changes such as itching, swelling of the arms and legs, numbness in the hands or feet, tingling in the hands or feet, and changes in the way food tastes and lipoprotein ratios were altered in patients with brain cancer during CRT. The lipoprotein ratios showed a significant positive correlation with sensory changes at each observation time (p < .05).

Conclusion

Sensory changes and lipoprotein ratios varied, and their significant relationship was identified during CRT. Lipoprotein ratios should be considered as an indicator for symptom management in patients with malignant brain cancer during CRT.
Inside the Façade: The Inhabited Space between Domestic and Urban Realms
Authors: Martinelli Patrizio M.
Published: December 2019

This article investigates the thesis that the façade, as a diaphragm between two worlds, private and public, architecture and city, domestic and urban, embraces the representation and expression of architectural character, looking at its leading role in the definition of the urban environment, both reacting to it and defining it. However, in particular, the paper focuses on the theme of façade as an inhabited threshold: not a two–dimensional vertical plane but a real architectural interior space. The inhabited façade becomes a place through which it is possible to experience the relationship between interior and exterior, between private and public, architecture and city, not only through the physical movement of “going inside,” “stepping outside,” “walking through” but also through the act of staying, living, and enjoying it as a space and a place that allows relationships between inside and outside.
Evaluating side-by-side diffusion models for studying drug supersaturation in an absorptive environment: a case example of fenofibrate and felodipine
Authors: Eliasen Jannik Nicklas , Berthelsen Ragna , Slot Anne Louise , Müllertz Anette
Published: December 2019

Objective

To test whether a side-by-side diffusion model is suitable for studying drug supersaturation in an absorptive environment.

Methods

The µD/P model and the µFLUX model, using a Caco-2 cell monolayer/PAMPA membrane as the permeation barrier, respectively, were compared in terms of robustness and ease of handling, while studying the drug supersaturation–precipitation–permeation interplay. Continuing with the best model, the impact of the acceptor media and the importance of studying drug supersaturation in a combined dissolution–permeation model, as compared to a simple dissolution model, were evaluated.

Key findings

The two models produced similar results in terms of supersaturation, precipitation and permeation. The µFLUX model was considered more robust and easier to handle based on its cell-free permeation system. Using the µFLUX model, it was found that an acceptor medium with a high surfactant concentration increased the amount of permeated drug. The effect of absorption on drug supersaturation was found to be dependent on the drug, and the tested level of supersaturation.

Conclusion

The tested models were comparable; however, Caco-2 cell monolayers were considered too sensitive to be used to study drug supersaturation. Further studies are needed to evaluate the observed drug-dependent effects of absorption on drug supersaturation.
Influence of nursing staff attitudes and characteristics on the use of coercive measures in acute mental health services—A systematic review
Authors: Doedens Paul , Vermeulen Jentien , Boyette Lindy‐Lou , Latour Corine , de Haan Lieuwe
Published: December 2019

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Aggressive behaviour is a major problem in clinical practice of mental health care and can result in the use of coercive measures.

Coercive measures are dangerous for psychiatric patients and international mental healthcare works on the elimination of these interventions.

There is no previous review that summarizes the attitude of nursing staff towards coercive measures and the influence of nursing staff characteristics on attitude towards and the use of coercive measures.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

The attitude of nurses shifted from a therapeutic paradigm (coercive measures have positive effects on patients) to a safety paradigm (coercive measures are undesirable, but necessary for the wards’ safety).

Nurses express the need for less coercive interventions to prevent seclusion and restraint, but their perception of intrusiveness is influenced by how often they use specific coercive measures.

The knowledge from scientific literature on the influence of nursing staff on coercive measures is highly inconclusive, although the feeling of safety of nurses might prove to be promising for further research.

What are the implications for practice?

There is need for increased attention specifically for the feeling of safety of nurses, to better equip nurses for their difficult work on acute mental health wards.

Introduction

The use of coercive measures generally has negative effects on patients. To help prevent its use, professionals need insight into what nurses believe about coercion and which staff determinants may influence its application. There is need for an integrated review on both attitude and influence of nurses on the use of coercion.

Aim

To summarize literature concerning attitude of nurses towards coercive measures and the influence of staff characteristics on the use of coercive measures.

Method

Systematic review.

Results

The attitude of nurses changed during the last two decades from a therapeutic to a safety paradigm. Nurses currently view coercive measures as undesirable, but necessary to deal with aggression. Nurses express the need for less intrusive interventions, although familiarity probably influences its perceived intrusiveness. Literature on the relation between staff characteristics and coercive measures is inconclusive.

Discussion

Nurses perceive coercive measures as unwanted but still necessary to maintain safety on psychiatric wards. Focussing on the determinants of perception of safety might be a promising direction for future research.

Implications for practice

Mental health care could improve the focus on the constructs of perceived safety and familiarity with alternative interventions to protect patients from unnecessary use of coercive interventions.
Differential Drawdown of Ammonium, Nitrate, and Urea by Freshwater Chlorophytes and Cyanobacteria1
Authors: Erratt Kevin J. , Creed Irena F. , Trick Charles G.
Published: December 2019

The chemical form of nitrogen (N) is deemed to be decisive in shaping the composition of the primary producer community. Recently, there has been a shift in the dominant form of N delivered to agricultural landscapes. Urea‐based fertilizers are a mainstay in modern agriculture, and their ubiquitous use has increased the likelihood of urea export to nearby freshwaters. The shift to urea fertilizers has coincided with the recent expansion of cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs). This study investigated N drawdown patterns between two major freshwater phytoplankton groups—chlorophytes and cyanobacteria. Experiments were designed to understand if different patterns of N drawdown occurred among taxa and the potential synergistic effects of multiple N substrates. Nitrate (NO3−), ammonium (NH4+), and urea were supplied in a series of paired combinations, and N concentrations were monitored to track N drawdowns. We did not find significant differences between phytoplankton classes when supplied with a single N substrate. However, we found that when N substrates were supplied in combination, significant differences in N drawdown patterns were observed. Urea was consumed more rapidly among cyanobacteria, being drawn down at significantly higher rates relative to inorganic N substrates. In contrast, inorganic N substrates were drawn down more rapidly among chlorophytes relative to urea. Our findings support the emerging urea–cyanoHAB link and the potential importance of urea in freshwater eutrophication. As society becomes increasingly dependent on urea for agricultural crops, the need to understand how urea influences phytoplankton community composition may be instrumental in predicting bloom dynamics.
Integrative approach reveals four new cryptic species in the genus Gayliella (Ceramiaceae, Rhodophyta)1
Authors: Gomes Fernanda P. , Maggs Christine A. , Barros‐Barreto Maria Beatriz B.
Published: December 2019

The filamentous red algal genus Gayliella, typified by G. flaccida, was segregated from Ceramium for a group of epiphytic species on the basis of morphological data and molecular phylogenetic analyses. However, while the genus was well investigated in some geographical areas, the treatment of the Brazilian taxa “Ceramium flaccidum” and “C. dawsonii” was incomplete and they were not transferred to Gayliella due to the problematic status of the specific epithets. Brazilian “C. flaccidum” did not fit within the circumscription of Gayliella flaccida; Brazilian “C. dawsonii” was positioned in three distinct lineages, none of which corresponded to known Gayliella species. Since the establishment of Gayliella, there has been no re‐evaluation of Brazilian species, so this study revises the genus in Brazil using molecular and morphological data. Brazilian “C. flaccidum”, “C. dawsonii”, and other Brazilian collections were investigated by an integrative approach using phylogenetic analysis, genetic divergence, two species delimitation methods using three molecular markers (rbcL, cox1, and partial LSU), and comparative morphological and quantitative analyses. This molecular‐assisted alpha taxonomy (MAAT) analysis placed Brazilian samples in five distinct well‐supported lineages. For these, we propose a new combination, Gayliella dawsonii comb. nov. (lineage 2), based on analysis of type specimens and molecular data obtained from specimens collected near the type locality, and four new species: Gayliella ardissonei sp. nov. (“Ceramium flaccidum” from Brazil), G. iemanja sp. nov. (“C. dawsonii” lineage 3), G. tamoiensis sp. nov., and G. jolyana sp. nov. (“C. dawsonii” lineage 1).
Photopigment, Absorption, and Growth Responses of Marine Cryptophytes to Varying Spectral Irradiance
Authors: Heidenreich Kristin M. , Richardson Tammi L.
Published: December 2019

The underwater light field of lakes, estuaries, and oceans may vary greatly in spectral composition. Phytoplankton in these environments must contain pigments that absorb the available colors of light. If spectral quality changes, acclimation to the new spectral environment would confer an ecological advantage in terms of photosynthesis and growth. Here, we explored the capacity of eight marine cryptophytes to adjust pigmentation in response to changes in spectral irradiance and related effects on light absorption, photosynthetically useable radiation (PUR), and growth rate. The pigment composition of all species changed in some way in response to shifts in spectral irradiance, but not all pigment changes could be considered advantageous in the context of chromatic acclimation. For most species, absorption by chl‐a and chl‐c2 resulted in highest absorption in the blue region, highest PUR values for blue‐light grown cells, and highest growth rates in blue light. The exception was Chroomonas mesostigmatica (CCMP 1168), which contains a high percentage of Cryptophyte‐Phycocyanin (Cr‐PC) 645, absorbs strongly in the orange‐to‐red region of the spectrum, and grew fastest under red light. The position and magnitude of the maximum and secondary absorption peak of Cr‐PC 569, the phycobiliprotein pigment of Hemiselmis cryptochromatica, varied with spectral irradiance. The underlying cause remains unknown, but may represent a mechanism by which cryptophytes optimize photon capture.
FOXP3+ and CD25+ cells are reduced in patients with stage IV, grade C periodontitis: A comparative clinical study
Authors: da Motta Raphael J. G. , Almeida Luciana Yamamoto , Villafuerte Kelly R. V. , Ribeiro-Silva Alfredo , León Jorge E. , Tirapelli Camila
Published: December 2019

Background and Objective

Some studies suggest that regulatory T cells (Tregs) have suppressive effects on inflammatory osteolysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate Treg immunomarkers in periodontitis‐affected tissues from patients with periodontitis and clinically healthy gingiva (control).

Material and Methods

The presence and distribution of positive cells for CD4, CD25 and FOXP3 (Treg immunomarkers) in periodontitis‐affected tissues (epithelium and lamina propria) of 30 patients (ten per group) with a diagnosis of stage IV, grade C periodontitis (IV‐C), stage III, grade B periodontitis (III‐B) and the control were evaluated. A two‐way ANOVA followed by Fisher's LSD test was used to demonstrate differences between the groups and immunomarkers; Student's t test was used to demonstrate differences between the epithelium and the lamina propria.

Results

Both IV‐C and III‐B periodontitis presented a significantly high proportion of immune‐stained cells for all immunomarkers when compared to the control group. Notably, CD25+ and FOXP3+ cells were detected in a significantly higher number in III‐B than IV‐C periodontitis (P < .05).

Conclusion

Our results suggest the participation of Tregs on the osteoimmunological mechanisms in IV‐C and III‐B periodontitis patients, notably contributing to strategies for alveolar bone regeneration in clinical treatment decisions.
High rate of sustained virological response with direct‐acting antivirals in haemophiliacs with HCV infection: A multicenter study
Authors: Mancuso Maria Elisa , Linari Silvia , Santagostino Elena , Bartolozzi Dario , D'Ambrosio Roberta , Borghi Marta , Lampertico Pietro , Peyvandi Flora , Castaman Giancarlo , Aghemo Alessio
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

Chronic hepatitis C is the main co‐morbidity in adult patients with haemophilia (PwH). It causes progressive liver damage leading to end‐stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Eradication of HCV was possible with interferon (IFN)‐based regimens in the past and direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) more recently. PwH have been considered “difficult‐to‐treat” because of several bad predictors of response. The advent of DAAs has provided high rates of sustained virological response (SVR) despite bad prognostic factors. Here, we present the results of antiviral treatment with DAAs in PwH treated in 2 large Italian Hemophilia Treatment Centers.

Methods

PwH and chronic hepatitis C sustained by any HCV genotype were eligible for therapy with DAAs, including those with compensated cirrhosis, HIV infection and/or previous failure to IFN‐based antiviral therapy. Patients received DAAs for 8‐24 weeks according to existing guidelines. SVR was defined as persistent negative serum HCV‐RNA at 12 weeks after treatment completion (SVR12).

Results

Between January 2015 and November 2018, 200 patients aged 21‐84 years (median: 50.5) received DAAs. HCV genotype 1 was the most prevalent (158, 79%). Forty patients (20%) were HIV positive, 56 (28%) had cirrhosis and 91 (46%) previously failed interferon‐based treatment. Ribavirin was used in 70 (35%). HCV‐RNA was undetectable at week 4 in 124/192 (65%) and SVR12 was achieved in 193/195 (99%). No patient had serious side effects related to DAAs.

Conclusions

DAAs were safe and highly effective in PwH irrespective of HIV status, stage of liver disease severity and/or previous failure to IFN‐based therapy.
Hand and foot exercises for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Win Mi Mi Thet Mon , Fukai Kiyoko , Nyunt Htwe Htwe , Linn Khaing Zaw
Published: December 2019

Exercises for diabetic peripheral neuropathy remain controversial, especially with regard to recommended precautions and weightbearing exercises for individuals. We aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of simple hand, finger, and foot exercises in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. After randomization, exercise (n = 51) and control (n = 53) groups received usual care and diabetic foot care education; only the exercise group performed exercises. Primary outcomes, including activities of daily living (assessed using the Patient Neurotoxicity Questionnaire), neuropathy severity (monofilament and vibration test), and pain (behavioral rating scale and Visual Analog Scale), and secondary outcomes, including physical function of the hand and foot (grip, pinch, finger counting time, and Timed Up and Go tests), were assessed at baseline, after the 8‐week intervention, and at the 16‐week follow‐up. The exercise group showed significantly stronger improvements in motor score and specific activities of daily living, such as climbing stairs and performing work or chores. Our exercises can be used to improve limb function in patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Severe methemoglobinemia due to topical dapsone misuse in a teenage girl
Authors: Yale Sarah , Stefanko Nicole , McCarthy Patrick , McFadden Vanessa , McCarthy James
Published: December 2019

Dapsone gel is a topical treatment for facial acne in adolescents and adults, and while systemic dapsone therapy is known to be associated with methemoglobinemia, once‐daily topical dapsone has been well tolerated with few side effects in large randomized controlled trials. We describe the first reported case of severe methemoglobinemia in a healthy adolescent using daily topical dapsone. Although the medication was prescribed for facial use only, the patient reported topical use over her back and chest as well. This case illustrates the potential for significant systemic dapsone absorption even with daily topical dosing and demonstrates the need for clear anticipatory guidance to prevent the potential morbidity and mortality associated with methemoglobinemia from improper topical dapsone use.
Thalidomide: An option for the pediatric patient with actinic prurigo
Authors: Watts‐Santos Anabella , Martinez‐Rico Jessica Carolina , Gomez‐Flores Minerva , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge , Alba‐Rojas Erika
Published: December 2019

Actinic prurigo (AP) is an immune‐mediated photodermatosis that usually starts in childhood and is predominant among American indigenous and mestizo communities. In adults with AP, thalidomide is the treatment of choice; however, there is little information on its use in pediatric patients. We report the case of a 10‐year‐old girl with AP treated successfully with thalidomide.
Feed‐based common carp farming and eutrophication: is there a reason for concern?
Authors: Roy Koushik , Vrba Jaroslav , Kaushik Sadasivam J. , Mraz Jan
Published: December 2019

Metadata from 70 research articles on Cyprinus carpio digestibility published between 1973 and 2017, covering 71 feed ingredients, were analysed. Interquartile range (IR) of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content in feedstuffs was 5–8% and 0.7–1.2% of dry matter, respectively, with digestible N:P 7.2:1–44.1:1. IR of N digestibility (79–99%) was high, whereas IR of P digestibility (27–47%) was rather poor. Dietary energy digestibility (gross energy and non‐protein energy) was >76%. Higher P in feedstuffs caused significant negative interferences for N digestibility. IR of nutrient content in carp faeces was estimated at 0.5–1.7% N and 0.4–0.9% P. Considering the metabolic losses, the carp excreta have an ‘eutrophic’ N:P ratio (2.1:1–5.8:1). Eutrophication potential from feeding seems linked to P digestibility followed by bad protein profile of diets. While brewery wastes, microbial protein and natural prey offer high P digestibility (75–90%), large knowledge gaps still exist in P digestibility of various ingredients. Thermal processing does not always improve P digestibility; acidic pre‐incubation with phytases (optimum: 1500–2000 IU kg−1 feed) is worth exploring. Under semi‐intensive system, digestible ‘supplementary’ nutrients (N: 3.3–4.9%, P: 0.2–0.5%; even lower) can support at least 0.6–1.2 thermal growth coefficient (reasonable growth) and be ecologically relevant. We further considered validity of data within experimental conditions; effects on N/P utilization; non‐faecal losses (IRs 17–59% of N intake; 9–18% of P intake); and controversies over eutrophication. Recent eutrophication of carp fishponds might have been rather ‘management‐driven’ than carp's biological limitations. Ameliorative measures are outlined.