bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A city-wide health promotion programme evaluation using EQUIHP: Jerusalem Community-Academic Partnership (J-CAP)
Authors: Besor Omri , Manor Orly , Paltiel Ora , Donchin Milka , Rauch Orly , Kaufman-Shriqui Vered
Published: August 2019

Background

While health promotion initiatives are common, too little is known about their quality, impact and sustainability. Fragmentation between sectors exists and programme evaluation initiatives lack consistency, making comparison of outcomes challenging.

Methods

We used a ‘snowball’ methodology to detect health promotion programmes (HPPs) in the Municipality of Jerusalem, excluding those in schools. The European Quality Instrument for Health Promotion (EQUIHP) was adapted and used to examine programme quality. The tool was pre-tested among stakeholders, and translated into Hebrew and Arabic between March and December 2017. Trained research assistants collected information on four domains using in-person interviews: (i) compliance with international principles of HPPs, (ii) development and implementation, (iii) project management and (iv) sustainability of programmes.

Results

Overall, 93 programmes, including 33 670 participants, were ascertained and evaluated. The majority of HPPs (54.8%) addressed nutrition and physical activity, with 58.1% targeting the non-orthodox Jewish population and 68.8% aimed at both sexes. Cronbach’s alpha scores were 0.968 for the entire EQUIHP tool and 0.802, 0.959, 0.918 and 0.718 for the subdomains of Framework, Project Development, Project Management and Sustainability, respectively. Median domain scores were 0.83, 0.61, 0.76 and 0.75. Median score of the entire tool was 0.67. HPPs operated by the Municipality scored lower than those of non-governmental organizations and health providers/organizations in every domain except for Project Management.

Conclusion

A systematic city-wide evaluation of HPPs is feasible and uncovers strengths and weaknesses, including sustainability and variability by programme provider. Academic-community partnerships may assist planning and improving HPPs in the city.
Perceived gender discrimination at work and subsequent long-term sickness absence among Finnish employed women
Authors: Pietiläinen Marjut , Nätti Jouko , Ojala Satu
Published: August 2019

Background

Discrimination has many kinds of consequences for employees and their well-being. This is an important aspect when considering certain issues, such as the need to prolong working careers. The objective of this study is to investigate the association of perceived gender discrimination at work with subsequent long-term sickness absence among Finnish employed women.

Methods

We used a representative sample of Finnish employed women (n = 8000) merged with register-based follow-up data. We examined the relationships of control variables with gender discrimination using cross tabulation, and the relationships of the controls with subsequent sickness absences were examined using analyses of variance. The effects of gender discrimination on long-term sickness absence were analysed using a negative binomial model.

Results

Perceived gender discrimination increased long-term sickness absence among employed women after controlling for age discrimination, various background, work and health-related factors. Employed women reporting perceived gender discrimination had a 1.4-times higher incidence rate ratios (IRR) of long-term sickness absence than those not reporting perceived gender discrimination. The association was strongest among upper-level socioeconomic group (IRR 2.2) in the adjusted model.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that gender discrimination at work is a risk factor for long sickness absence among women. Therefore, it is essential to increase awareness and prevention of discrimination to reduce negative gender-based treatment at work.
In silico studies reveal RSc1154 and RhlE as temperature-related pathogenic proteins of Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Zhou Daxiang , Li Guoli , Sun Houliang , Liu Feng , Chen Lin , Xiong Shu , Yin Youping
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to explore the temperature-related pathogenic mechanism of Ralstonia solanacearum infection in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Based on bioinformatics analysis of microarray dataset (GSE33657), the co-differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs) ribonucleic acids were identified in R. solanacearum GMI1000-infected L. esculentum Mill., which was cultured at 20°C and 28°C, in rich medium containing casamino acids, peptone, and glucose (CPG) and planta. In total, 63 upregulated co-DEGs and 57 downregulated co-DEGs were identified between 20°C and 28°C in the CPG and planta groups. Protein–protein interaction network revealed 70 protein interaction pairs and 59 nodes. Notably, iolG, iolE, ioll and RSc1248 played critical roles in the network. The subcellular localization and functional annotation showed that the increased expressed proteins were mainly localized in the inner cell membrane, while those with decreased expression were localized in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, these proteins were mainly enriched in regulation of DNA-templated transcription. RSc1154 and RhlE were predicted to be temperature-related pathogenic genes for R. solanacearum in tomato. Furthermore, phosphorelay signal transduction system function might play an important role in R. solanacearum infection. The candidate genes were verified by quantitative real-time PCR, and the results were consistent with gene expression profile.
Effect of high-risk human papillomavirus in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in Somalian and Turkish cases
Authors: Baş Yılmaz , Aker Fügen Vardar , Gönültaş Aylin , Akdeniz Raşit , Turgal Ebru , Çıkrıkçıoğlu Makbule Arar
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to investigate the role of high-risk human papillomavirus (Hr-HPV) in Somalian and Turkish patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In the sections obtained from paraffin-embedded blocks, the results of invasive tumor, peripheral tumor dysplasia and normal mucosa were examined. Samples containing 45 and 47 ESCC, 46 and 42 dysplasia in Somalian (n = 52) and Turkish (n = 53) cases, respectively, were included in the study. We examined the presence of 14 types of Hr-HPV in ESCC collected from Somalia and Turkey by Aptima® Panther System. Hr-HPV types were not detected in Somalian cases. p16INK4a is positive in 5 (11.4%) tumors and 6 (13%) dysplasia. p53 is positive in 28 (62.2%) tumors and 35 (76.1%) dysplasia. HPV16-18/45 are positive only in one of the Turkish cases. p16INK4a is positive in 5 (10.6%) tumors and 4 (9.5%) dysplasia. p53 is positive in 31 (63.3%) tumors and 24 (57.1%) dysplasia. No reaction was detected in normal mucosa samples in both countries. This study is regional. Although the findings did not reflect the general population, the present study shows that the effect of HPV on carcinogenesis in Somalian and Turkish ESCC patients was not significant.
VAPPER: High-throughput variant antigen profiling in African trypanosomes of livestock
Authors: Silva Pereira Sara , Heap John , Jones Andrew R , Jackson Andrew P
Published: August 2019

Background

Analysing variant antigen gene families on a population scale is a difficult challenge for conventional methods of read mapping and variant calling due to the great variability in sequence, copy number, and genomic loci. In African trypanosomes, hemoparasites of humans and animals, this is complicated by variant antigen repertoires containing hundreds of genes subject to various degrees of sequence recombination.

Findings

We introduce Variant Antigen Profiler (VAPPER), a tool that allows automated analysis of the variant surface glycoprotein repertoires of the most prevalent livestock African trypanosomes. VAPPER produces variant antigen profiles for any isolate of the veterinary pathogens Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma vivax from genomic and transcriptomic sequencing data and delivers publication-ready figures that show how the queried isolate compares with a database of existing strains. VAPPER is implemented in Python. It can be installed to a local Galaxy instance from the ToolShed (https://toolshed.g2.bx.psu.edu/) or locally on a Linux platform via the command line (https://github.com/PGB-LIV/VAPPER). The documentation, requirements, examples, and test data are provided in the Github repository.

Conclusion

By establishing two different, yet comparable methodologies, our approach is the first to allow large-scale analysis of African trypanosome variant antigens, large multi-copy gene families that are otherwise refractory to high-throughput analysis.
Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 Predicts Therapeutic Response in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Treated With Infliximab
Authors: Barberio Brigida , D’Incà Renata , Facchin Sonia , Dalla Gasperina Marianna , Fohom Tagne Cedric Arsenè , Cardin Romilda , Ghisa Matteo , Lorenzon Greta , Marinelli Carla , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo , Zingone Fabiana
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are treated with anti-TNF agents. Strategies to monitor response to therapy may improve clinical control of the disease and reduce economical costs. Previous evidence suggests cleavage of infliximab (IFX) by Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) as a mechanism leading to loss of response. Our study aimed to evaluate if MMP3 serum levels could be considered an early marker of anti-TNF nonresponse and to analyze the correlation with other biochemical markers of treatment failure such as IFX trough levels and anti-IFX antibodies, inflammatory markers, and albumin levels.

Methods

Retrospectively, 73 IBD patients who had received IFX for at least 1 year were enrolled: 35 patients were responders and 38 were nonresponders at 52 weeks. Clinical and biochemical data (Harvey-Bradshaw index [HBI], Mayo score, body mass index [BMI], C-reactive protein [CRP], fecal calprotectin and albumin levels), MMP3 serum levels, and drug monitoring were assessed at baseline, postinduction, and 52 weeks.

Results

The MMP3 levels were similar at baseline (19.83 vs 17.92 ng/mL), but at postinduction, patients who failed to respond at 1 year had significantly higher levels than patients who responded (26.09 vs 8.68 ng/mL, P < 0.001); the difference was confirmed at week 52 (29.56 vs 11.48 ng/mL, P < 0.001). The MMP3 levels tended to be higher in patients without antidrug antibodies than in patients with antidrug antibodies at postinduction and 52 weeks.

Conclusions

The MMP3 serum determination may represent an early marker of response to infliximab.
Epidemiology of Burn Wounds Arriving to a Level 1 Trauma Center in Israel
Authors: Yaacobi Dafna (Shilo) , Hayun Yehiel , Har-Shai Lior , Litwin Arik , Ad-El Dean D
Published: August 2019

Burn injuries have grave consequences for patients and impose a heavy economic burden on healthcare services. Studies on the epidemiology of burn injury in Israel are sparse and outdated, and improved understanding of current trends can help experts plan prevention campaigns and design effective treatment paradigms. This study sought to assess the background, clinical, and treatment characteristics of adult patients admitted with burn injury to a level 1 trauma center in Israel in 2005 to 2017. Data were retrospectively retrieved from the hard copy and electronic files as follows: patient sex and age; burn type, degree, and etiology; percentage total BSA (%TBSA) affected; and type of treatment and length of hospital stay (LOS). The cohort included 734 patients of mean age 41.79 years and a male-to-female ratio of 1.8:1. Thermal factors, particularly hot liquids, were the most common cause; second-degree burns were the most common. Mean %TBSA was 5.39%; mean LOS was 11.81 days; and mean LOS/%TBSA was 4.65. Advanced dressings alone yielded satisfactory outcome in 74.2% of patients. The relatively younger patient age and male predominance of our cohort were in line with published findings. The LOS was similar to previous studies in Israel but lower than in Europe. The LOS/%TBSA was higher than in the literature, with a decrease over time suggesting an increased effectiveness of treatment. There appears to be a decline in the rate of surgery for burn injury and increased expertise in the use of advanced dressings. National prevention campaigns should focus on scalds rather than flame-induced burns.
Rethinking Unplugging
Authors: Knobel Angela
Published: August 2019

Opponents of abortion have traditionally responded to Judith Thomson’s “A Defense of Abortion” by denying that her example of the unconscious violinist is analogous to a pregnancy that results from rape. In this article, I argue that this strategy does not work. Although there are differences between Thomson’s violinist and pregnancies that result from rape, the differences are not morally relevant. The appropriate strategy for the opponent of abortion, I argue, is to simply bite the bullet: the opponent of abortion should simply reply that Thomson’s innocent victim is not free to unplug himself from the violinist.
Upregulation of Annexin A1 in Reactive Astrocytes and Its Subtle Induction in Microglia at the Boundaries of Human Brain Infarcts
Authors: Shijo Masahiro , Hamasaki Hideomi , Honda Hiroyuki , Suzuki Satoshi O , Tachibana Masaki , Ago Tetsuro , Kitazono Takanari , Iihara Koji , Iwaki Toru
Published: August 2019

Annexin A1 (ANXA1) has multiple functions, including anti-inflammatory effects, and is thought to be neuroprotective in various pathophysiologies of the central nervous system. The importance of ANXA1 in microglia and endothelial cells in ischemic environments in the brain has been recognized, but its detailed behavior in astrocytes in the ischemic brain remains unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we therefore assessed the altered distribution of ANXA1 in human brain infarcts using 14 autopsied samples and 18 surgical samples. Elevated expression of ANXA1 was observed in reactive astrocytes in peri-infarct regions. ANXA1 accumulated at the cell periphery and in swollen cytoplasmic processes of reactive astrocytes, as well as at the rim of vacuoles at the boundary of necrosis, and colocalized with aberrantly distributed aquaporin 4 and excitatory amino acid transporter 1. Foamy macrophages in the necrotic core also expressed abundant ANXA1, whereas resident microglia at the boundary of necrosis rarely showed intrinsic expression of ANXA1. This characteristic distribution of ANXA1 in human brain infarcts may represent the good adaptability of reactive astrocytes to ischemic damage.
Gambling Expansion and Its Association with Disordered Gambling Trends
Authors: Winters Ken C. , Smith Nathan D. L.
Published: August 2019

This chapter focuses on the empirical, data-driven research pertaining to the public health issue of whether or not gambling expansion significantly alters the prevalence rate of disordered gambling and how this research can inform responsible gambling policies and practices. It is a legitimate public health concern that the expansion of gambling opportunities will contribute not just to increases in the prevalence rate of those who gamble and in gambling involvement (e.g., number of days gambling) but also to an increase in the rate of disordered gambling. This latter point is the central issue of this chapter. The authors rely on recent and peer-reviewed publications, although at times “gray” publications (i.e., government reports not in the peer-reviewed literature) are included.
The Status of Responsible Gaming
Authors: Crosby Stephen P. , Linden Mark Vander
Published: August 2019

The authors, two senior policymakers at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, trace the development of responsible gambling policy in Massachusetts, from its enabling legislation and the seminal Reno Model, to the expansive and comprehensive program that is in place in Massachusetts today. The “Massachusetts model” included three important directions: (1) Look beyond the US borders for model programs that would closely align with the expectations in Massachusetts; (2) Adopt new and promising practices and emerging technology with a precautionary approach, but leverage research funding to closely evaluate their effectiveness; and (3) Implement an enduring and comprehensive research agenda that feeds data-driven strategies to advance responsible gambling and mitigate problem gambling. In this chapter the authors discuss issues related to responsible gambling programs nationally and internationally. They offer a critical reflection about the sufficiency of the Reno Model, which remains widely perceived as the preeminent responsible gaming program standard, and provide recommendations for what constitutes a minimum responsible gambling program.
Alternatives to Standard Prosecution
Authors: DeMatteo David , Heilbrun Kirk , Thornewill Alice , Arnold Shelby
Published: August 2019

This chapter begins with an introduction to the Sequential Intercept Model, which is a theoretical framework used to identify points of intervention and community alternatives for individuals with behavioral health treatment needs in the justice system. The authors outline each intercept and provide examples of interventions at each stage, including more detailed information about Intercept 3, which is the intercept at which problem-solving courts are found. The authors then review the history and development of problem-solving courts, highlighting important political events that influenced their growth. This chapter also includes a discussion about inclusion/exclusion criteria in problem-solving courts to better detail the populations they serve. The chapter concludes with a review of the strengths, limitations, and stakeholders’ (e.g., judges, attorneys, consumers) perceptions of problem-solving courts.
Drug Courts
Authors: DeMatteo David , Heilbrun Kirk , Thornewill Alice , Arnold Shelby
Published: August 2019

This chapter first reviews the relationship between substance abuse and criminal justice involvement, followed by a discussion of the history and development of drug courts, with a specific focus on their features, operations, and key components. The authors then discuss the extensive research on the effectiveness of drug courts, focusing primarily on outcomes of recidivism and substance use. Given the large body of research on drug courts, there is a great deal of data on the correlates and predictors of success in drug courts; the authors provide a summary of the key factors related to drug court success. They also mention the limitations in the extant research and note how future studies can address these shortcomings. The authors then discuss a newer drug court model—juvenile drug courts—with a focus on their key features and effectiveness. Finally, after discussing best practices in the development and operation of drug courts, “next steps” are proposed.
Reentry Courts
Authors: DeMatteo David , Heilbrun Kirk , Thornewill Alice , Arnold Shelby
Published: August 2019

This chapter provides a discussion of reentry programming and specialty courts designed to assist offenders who are reintegrating into society after being released from incarceration. Reentry courts represent a unique form of problem-solving justice that addresses criminogenic needs (rather than behavioral health needs) related to recidivism. This chapter provides an overview of the history and development of reentry courts, followed by a discussion of common components of these courts and an overview of a few prototypically models of U.S. reentry courts. This chapter also summarizes the relevant research on these courts and highlights limitations in the literature. Finally, this chapter discusses how specialty reentry courts/programming can function most effectively to prevent recidivism, how these courts can expand their reach, and aspects of reentry courts that are in need of additional research.
Recovery from a Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Daley Dennis C. , Douaihy Antoine
Published: August 2019

The chapter discusses the many possible paths that those with SUDs can take to recovery. Recovery refers to everything that a person with an SUD does to manage the problem and make positive changes. Abstinence is a first step for those who choose this goal, but the real work of recovery is staying abstinent over time and making personal changes to support this. Recovery is not short term; it is a process that takes place over years for many people with SUDs. People with more severe problems may require professional help. Those addicted to opioids or alcohol may also benefit from medications to help sustain recovery.
Psychiatric Illness Co-occurring with a Substance Use Problem
Authors: Daley Dennis C. , Douaihy Antoine
Published: August 2019

The combination of an SUD and a psychiatric disorder is called dual or co-occurring disorders (CODs). Rates of SUDs are especially high among individuals with antisocial or borderline personality disorders, bipolar illness, and schizophrenia. Having one disorder raises the risk of having the other. Psychiatric illness can affect how quickly a substance problem develops and response to treatment. It can also affect relapse to substance use. The effects of alcohol or other drugs can cause or worsen psychiatric symptoms. Suggestions are given for handling psychiatric emergencies, including suicide threats. An overview of the treatment options for patients with dual disorders is given.
How Substance Problems Affect the Family Unit
Authors: Daley Dennis C. , Douaihy Antoine
Published: August 2019

A family unit is a system in which various parts have an impact on other parts. This chapter looks at how families, concerned others, and friends are affected by a loved one’s SUD. Any family member may be hurt by a loved one with an SUD. The effects may vary among families and among members within the same family, but emotional pain and disruption of family life are common. Attention often centers on the member with the SUD, while overall family pain and distress are ignored. Individuals with SUDs often “underfunction,” which means that other members of the family have to pick up the slack and “overfunction.” This dynamic may change how family members communicate or relate to one another. The effects on families vary from mild to severe—in which a family is torn apart by an SUD.
Managing Emotions
Authors: Daley Dennis C. , Douaihy Antoine
Published: August 2019

Upsetting emotions or feelings are among the most common difficulties in recovery. Feelings such as anger, anxiety, boredom, depression, guilt, and shame can contribute to relapse and cause unhappiness. Mismanaged feelings can cause problems in relationships and ability to get along with others. Many people use alcohol or other drugs to cover up their feelings or make them less painful. However, substances can affect judgment and exaggerate feelings, making them worse than they actually are. The goals of this chapter are to learn how upsetting emotions can cause difficulty in recovery, to learn the most common upsetting emotional states and strategies for coping with them, and to increase sharing of positive emotions.
Is This Program Right for You?
Authors: Rothbaum Barbara Olasov , Foa Edna B. , Hembree Elizabeth A. , Rauch Sheila A. M.
Published: August 2019

Not every trauma survivor needs a trauma-focused treatment like prolonged exposure (PE). Many studies have shown that natural recovery works very well for many people who experience a traumatic event. In fact, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and other trauma reactions are very common and happen for almost everyone right after a trauma, but then these symptoms and reactions decrease a lot for many people, especially over the first 3 months. This chapter helps trauma survivors determine if PE therapy is appropriate for them, and, if so, the chapter provides motivation for treatment.
Session 2
Authors: Rothbaum Barbara Olasov , Foa Edna B. , Hembree Elizabeth A. , Rauch Sheila A. M.
Published: August 2019

In Session 2, the patient will learn about common reactions to trauma. He or She will begin to construct a list of situations they have been avoiding (called the In Vivo Exposure Hierarchy). In order to find out how much discomfort or anxiety certain situations provoke, the patient and the therapist will use the Subjective Units of Discomfort Scale (SUDS) that runs from 0 to 100. In vivo exposure homework assignments begin with situations that make the patient feel a bit anxious but that seem manageable, and these situations will gradually progress to more upsetting situations.
Foundations of Prolonged Exposure
Authors: Foa Edna B. , Hembree Elizabeth A. , Rothbaum Barbara Olasov , Rauch Sheila A. M.
Published: August 2019

Foundations of prolonged exposure (PE) include (1) education about common reactions to trauma, what maintains trauma-related symptoms, and how PE reduces posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms; (2) repeated in vivo confrontation with situations, people, or objects that the patient is avoiding because they are trauma-related and cause emotional distress such as anxiety, shame, or guilt; and (3) repeated, prolonged imaginal exposure to the trauma memories followed by processing the details of the event, the emotions, and the thoughts that the patient experienced during the trauma. The aim of in vivo and imaginal exposure is to enhance emotional processing of traumatic events by helping the patient face the trauma memories and reminders and process the emotions and thoughts, as well as the details of the trauma that emerge during revisiting experiences.
Can the RNA World Still Function without Cytidine?
Authors: Tupper Andrew S , Pudritz Ralph E , Higgs Paul G
Published: August 2019

Most scenarios for the origin of life assume that RNA played a key role in both catalysis and information storage. The A, U, G, and C nucleobases in modern RNA all participate in secondary structure formation and replication. However, the rapid deamination of C to U and the absence of C in meteorite samples suggest that prebiotic RNA may have been deficient in cytosine. Here, we assess the ability of RNA sequences formed from a three-letter AUG alphabet to perform both structural and genetic roles in comparison to sequences formed from the AUGC alphabet. Despite forming less thermodynamically stable helices, the AUG alphabet can find a broad range of structures and thus appears sufficient for catalysis in the RNA World. However, in the AUG case, longer sequences are required to form structures with an equivalent complexity. Replication in the AUG alphabet requires GU pairing. Sequence fidelity in the AUG alphabet is low whenever G’s are present in the sequence. We find that AUG sequences evolve to AU sequences if GU pairing is rare, and to RU sequences if GU pairing is common (R denotes A or G). It is not possible to conserve a G at a specific site in either case. These problems do not rule out the possibility of an RNA World based on AUG, but they show that it wouldbe significantly more difficult than with a four-base alphabet.
An Outbreak of Brucellosis: An Adult and Pediatric Case Series
Authors: Hassouneh Linda , Quadri Syeda , Pichilingue-Reto Patricia , Chaisavaneeyakorn Sujittra , Cutrell James B , Wetzel Dawn M , Nijhawan Ank E
Published: August 2019

Background

Brucellosis is recognized as a neglected zoonotic disease and a major public health threat. The purpose of this study was to characterize epidemiological risk factors and healthcare utilization and compare clinical aspects of disease among adult and pediatric cases in North Texas.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of electronic medical records was completed at 3 large tertiary centers—Parkland Health and Hospital System, Clements University Hospital, and Children’s Medical Center—between January 1, 2007 and June 1, 2017. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were collected. Cases were defined as confirmed or probable.

Results

Twenty-eight cases of brucellosis were identified: 26 confirmed (9 children, 17 adults) and 2 probable cases (1 child, 1 adult). Half (n = 14) were diagnosed in 2016 during an outbreak in Dallas County. Risk factors associated with infection were consumption of unpasteurized cheese (71%), recent travel (54%), close contact to a confirmed human brucellosis case (36%), and exposure to animals (11%). Median days of symptoms was 10 and 16 for children and adults, respectively. The majority (79%) of patients visited the emergency department before diagnosis and 93% were hospitalized. Fever was the most common symptom in children (80%) and adults (100%). Hepatitis (75% of children) and anemia (82% of adults) were the most common laboratory abnormalities. The most common complication in children was splenic lesions (40%), and the most common complication in adults was hepato/splenomegaly (39%).

Conclusions

The diagnosis of Brucella infection requires a high index of suspicion and should be considered in patients presenting with a febrile illness and a compatible exposure history.
The Orbitozygomatic Craniotomy and Its Judicious Use
Authors: Cohen-Gadol Aaron
Published: August 2019

The concept of maximizing bone removal along the skull base has been advocated to expand the operative space for large, firm, and encasing ventral and ventrolateral skull base tumors. However, indications for the use of such osteotomies have not been well defined. The improved maneuverability and enhanced extent of expansion of the operative corridor via the skull base approaches compared to those of standard craniotomies have been based on cadaveric studies that might not simulate the operative environment realistically. Bony removal alone is not adequate to protect neurovascular structures, and strategic use of dynamic retraction and innovative operative routes are some of the other factors that contribute to successful microsurgery. In this analysis, the more discriminate indications and modified techniques for orbitozygomatic osteotomy are discussed.
Second data release of the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program
Authors: Aihara Hiroaki , AlSayyad Yusra , Ando Makoto , Armstrong Robert , Bosch James , Egami Eiichi , Furusawa Hisanori , Furusawa Junko , Goulding Andy , Harikane Yuichi , Hikage Chiaki , Ho Paul T P , Hsieh Bau-Ching , Huang Song , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Imanishi Masatoshi , Ito Kei , Iwata Ikuru , Jaelani Anton T , Kakuma Ryota , Kawana Kojiro , Kikuta Satoshi , Kobayashi Umi , Koike Michitaro , Komiyama Yutaka , Li Xiangchong , Liang Yongming , Lin Yen-Ting , Luo Wentao , Lupton Robert , Lust Nate B , MacArthur Lauren A , Matsuoka Yoshiki , Mineo Sogo , Miyatake Hironao , Miyazaki Satoshi , More Surhud , Murata Ryoma , Namiki Shigeru V , Nishizawa Atsushi J , Oguri Masamune , Okabe Nobuhiro , Okamoto Sakurako , Okura Yuki , Ono Yoshiaki , Onodera Masato , Onoue Masafusa , Osato Ken , Ouchi Masami , Shibuya Takatoshi , Strauss Michael A , Sugiyama Naoshi , Suto Yasushi , Takada Masahiro , Takagi Yuhei , Takata Tadafumi , Takita Satoshi , Tanaka Masayuki , Terai Tsuyoshi , Toba Yoshiki , Uchiyama Hisakazu , Utsumi Yousuke , Wang Shiang-Yu , Wang Wenting , Yamada Yoshihiko
Published: August 2019

This paper presents the second data release of the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program, a wide-field optical imaging survey using the 8.2 m Subaru Telescope. The release includes data from 174 nights of observation through 2018 January. The Wide layer data cover about 300 deg$^2$ in all five broad-band filters ($grizy$) to the nominal survey exposure (10 min in $gr$ and 20 min in $izy$). Partially observed areas are also included in the release; about 1100 deg$^2$ is observed in at least one filter and one exposure. The median seeing in the i-band is ${0_{.}^{\prime \prime }6}$, demonstrating the superb image quality of the survey. The Deep (26 deg$^2$) and UltraDeep (4 deg$^2$) data are jointly processed and the UltraDeep-COSMOS field reaches an unprecedented depth of $i\sim 28$ at $5 \, \sigma$ for point sources. In addition to the broad-band data, narrow-band data are also available in the Deep and UltraDeep fields. This release includes a major update to the processing pipeline, including improved sky subtraction, PSF modeling, object detection, and artifact rejection. The overall data quality has been improved, but this release is not without problems; there is a persistent deblender problem as well as new issues with masks around bright stars. The user is encouraged to review the issue list before utilizing the data for scientific explorations. All the image products as well as catalog products are available for download. The catalogs are also loaded into a database, which provides an easy interface for users to retrieve data for objects of interest. In addition to these main data products, detailed galaxy shape measurements withheld from Public Data Release 1 (PDR1) are now available to the community. The shape catalog is drawn from the S16A internal release, which has a larger area than PDR1 (160 deg$^2$). All products are available at the data release site, https://hsc-release.mtk.nao.ac.jp/.
Strengthening the approach to oral health policy and practice in Canada
Authors: Hachey Shauna , Clovis Joanne , Lamarche Kimberley
Published: August 2019

Evidence suggests that Canadian children from marginalized populations experience higher rates of oral diseases than their more fortunate counterparts. Oral health care in Canada is a nearly exclusively privatized and siloed system. In order to close the gap in child oral health, a combination of cohesive strategies and accessible providers is essential. The Health Impact Pyramid is a paradigm to guide health policy and programming with ready application to oral health care in Canada for the delivery of evidence-based oral health interventions with high impact. A collaborative approach among primary care providers (oral health and nonoral health), educators and the public sector, and the utilization of oral health service providers to their full scope of practice is needed to access priority populations and to deliver the most impactful interventions. Strengthening the approach to oral health care in Canada is necessary to reduce the inequities in oral health and, in turn, overall child health.
Caregiver support and positive airway pressure therapy adherence among adolescents with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Parmar Arpita , Messiha Sandra , Baker Adele , Zweerink Allison , Toulany Alene , Narang Indra
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Positive airway therapy (PAP) adherence rates are suboptimal among adolescents with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and strategies to increase PAP adherence is a clinical priority. This study evaluates if caregiver support is associated with PAP adherence rates among adolescents with OSA.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study and evaluated PAP adherence rates among adolescents with OSA from 2012 to 2017. Adherence was measured as continuous variables: average PAP usage (minutes per night) and average PAP usage >4 hours/night (% of all nights). We evaluated if adolescents with OSA who were receiving practical caregiver support with PAP had higher adherence than adolescents with OSA without caregiver support.

Results

One hundred and seven adolescents with OSA (mean age=14.1±2.5 years, 64.5% male, mean BMI percentile=89.0±21.8) seen between January 2012 and August 2017 at our institution were included. In this study, 60.7% (n=65) of adolescents with OSA were receiving practical caregiver support with PAP therapy. Adolescents with OSA receiving practical caregiver support with PAP used therapy for a significantly greater duration each night compared to adolescents who were not receiving practical caregiver support (298.5±206.7 versus 211.9±187.2 minutes; P=0.02). Greater time since the initial PAP prescription was independently associated with PAP adherence.

Conclusion

Focusing on PAP adherence early may help adolescents with OSA incorporate therapy into their nightly routine, which may improve adherence and lead to improved health outcomes in adolescents with OSA. Practical caregiver support may be an essential component of ensuring optimal PAP adherence among adolescents with OSA.
Development of a novel prostate apoptosis response-4 (Par-4) protein entity with an extended duration of action for therapeutic treatment of cancer
Authors: Kim Kyungbo , Araujo Pereira , Hebbar Nikhil , Zhou Ziyuan , Zheng Xirong , Zheng Fang , Rangnekar Vivek M , Zhan Chang-Guo
Published: August 2019

Prostate apoptosis response-4 (Par-4) is a tumor suppressor which protects against neoplastic transformation. Remarkably, Par-4 is capable of inducing apoptosis selectively in cancer cells without affecting the normal cells. In this study, we found that recombinant Par-4 protein had limited serum persistence in mice that may diminish its anti-tumor activity in vivo. To improve the in vivo performance of the short-lived Par-4 protein, we aimed to develop a novel, long-lasting form of Par-4 with extended sequence, denoted as Par-4Ex, without affecting the desirable molecular function of the natural Par-4. We demonstrate that the Par-4Ex protein entity, produced by using the Escherichia coli expression system suitable for large-scale production, fully retains the desirable pro-apoptotic activity of Par-4 protein, but with ~7-fold improved biological half-life. Further in vivo tests confirmed that, due to the prolonged biological half-life, the Par-4Ex protein is indeed more potent in suppressing metastatic tumor growth in mice.
$S$
-matrix unitarity and renormalizability in higher-derivative theories
Authors: Abe Yugo , Inami Takeo , Izumi Keisuke , Kitamura Tomotaka , Noumi Toshifumi
Published: August 2019

We investigate the relation between $S$-matrix unitarity ($SS^\dagger=1$) and renormalizability in theories with negative-norm states. The relation has been confirmed in many field theories, including gauge theories and Einstein gravity, by analyzing the unitarity bound, which follows from the $S$-matrix unitarity and the norm positivity. On the other hand, renormalizable theories with a higher-derivative kinetic term do not necessarily satisfy the unitarity bound because of the negative-norm states. In these theories it is not known whether the $S$-matrix unitarity provides a nontrivial constraint related to the renormalizability. In this paper, by relaxing the assumption of norm positivity we derive a bound on scattering amplitudes weaker than the unitarity bound, which may be used as a consistency requirement for $S$-matrix unitarity. We demonstrate in scalar field models with a higher-derivative kinetic term that the weaker bound and the renormalizability imply identical constraints.
Different seniority states of $^{119-126}$Sn isotopes: shell-model description
Authors: Srivastava Praveen C , Bhoy Bharti , Ermamatov M J
Published: August 2019

In the present work, available experimental data up to high-spin states of $^{119-126}$Sn isotopes with different seniority ($v$), including $v = 4$, 5, 6, and 7, are interpreted with the shell model, by performing shell-model calculations in the 50–82 valence shell composed of $1g_{7/2}$, $2d_{5/2}$, $1h_{11/2}$, $3s_{1/2}$, and $2d_{3/2}$ orbitals. The results are compared with the available experimental data. These states are described in terms of broken neutron pairs occupying the $h_{11/2}$ orbital. Possible configurations of seniority isomers in these nuclei are discussed. The breaking of three neutron pairs is responsible for generating high-spin states. The isomeric states $5^-$, $7^-$, $10^+$, and $15^-$ of even Sn isotopes, and isomeric states $19/2^+$, $23/2^+$, $27/2^-$, and $35/2^+$ of odd Sn isotopes, are described in terms of different seniority. For even Sn isotopes, the isomeric states $5^-$, $7^-$, and $10^+$ are due to seniority $v = 2$; the isomeric state $15^-$ is due to seniority $v = 4$, and, in the case of odd Sn isotopes, the isomeric states $19/2^+$, $23/2^+$, and $27/2^-$ are due to seniority $v = 3$, and the isomeric state $35/2^+$ in $^{123}$Sn is due to seniority $v = 5$. These are maximally aligned spins, which involve successive pair breakings in the $\nu (h_{11/2})$ orbital.
The vicious cycle between transglutaminase 2 and reactive oxygen species in hyperglycemic memory–induced endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Lee Jee‐Yeon , Lee Yeon‐Ju , Jeon Hye‐Yoon , Han Eun‐Taek , Park Won Sun , Hong Seok‐Ho , Kim Young‐Myeong , Ha Kwon‐Soo
Published: August 2019

Clinical trials suggested that the vascular system can remember episodes of poor glycemic control through a phenomenon known as hyperglycemic memory (HGM). HGM is associated with long‐term diabetic vascular complications in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, although the molecular mechanism of that association is not clearly understood. We hypothesized that transglutaminase 2 (TGase2) and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a key role in HGM‐induced vascular dysfunction. We found that hyperglycemia induced persistent oxidative stress, expression of inflammatory adhesion molecules, and apoptosis in the aortic endothelium of HGM mice whose blood glucose levels had been normalized by insulin supplementation. TGase2 activation and ROS generation were in a vicious cycle in the aortic endothelium of HGM mice and also in human aortic endothelial cells after glucose normalization, which played a key role in the sustained expression of inflammatory adhesion molecules and apoptosis. Our findings suggest that the TGase2‐ROS vicious cycle plays an important role in HGM‐induced endothelial dysfunction.—Lee, J.‐Y., Lee, Y.‐J., Jeon, H.‐Y., Han, E.‐T., Park, W. S., Hong, S.‐H., Kim, Y.‐M., Ha, K.‐S. The vicious cycle between transglutaminase 2 and reactive oxygen species in hyperglycemic memory–induced endothelial dysfunction. FASEB J. 33, 12655–12667 (2019). www.fasebj.org
An update on X-Linked agammaglobulinaemia: clinical manifestations and management
Authors: Shillitoe Benjamin Martin James , Gennery Andrew R.
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

X-linked agammaglobulinaemia (XLA) is a congenital defect of development of B lymphocytes leading to agammaglobulinaemia. It was one of the first primary immunodeficiencies described, but treatment has remained relatively unchanged over the last 60 years. This summary aims to outline the current outcomes, treatments and future research areas for XLA.

Recent findings

Immunoglobulin therapy lacks IgA and IgM, placing patients at theoretical risk of experiencing recurrent respiratory tract infections and developing bronchiectasis despite best current therapy. Recent cohort studies from Italy and the USA conform that bronchiectasis remains a major burden for this group despite best current efforts. However, gene therapy offers a potential cure for these patients with proven proof of concept murine models.

The potential limitations of current immunoglobulin therapy appear to be confirmed by recent cohort studies, and therefore further work in the development of gene therapy is warranted. Until this is available, clinicians should strive to reduce the diagnostic delay, regularly monitor for lung disease and individualize target immunoglobulin doses to reduce infection rates for their patients.
Models of Faculty Involvement in Primary Care Residency Teaching Clinics
Authors: Bodenheimer Thomas , Knox Margae , Kong Marianna
Published: August 2019

Through site visits to 42 teaching clinics associated with family and internal medicine residency programs during 2013–2018, the authors observed a spectrum of faculty involvement. In this Perspective, they describe and share examples of the 3 faculty models they identified. Some programs have a small, focused faculty whose members spend at least 5 half-day sessions per week seeing patients or precepting residents in the clinic. Others have a large, dispersed faculty with many faculty physicians who spend 1 or 2 half-day sessions per week in the clinic. Some use a hybrid model with a small focused faculty group plus other faculty with little clinic time. The dispersed model was observed only in university-based residencies, and the focused faculty model was commonly seen in community-based residencies. While faculty in both settings must juggle multiple responsibilities, several studies have confirmed the value of having faculty committed to ambulatory care and teaching. In site visit interviews, clinic leaders indicated focused faculty play an important role in teaching clinics by championing clinic improvement, improving continuity of care, and enhancing the resident experience. Faculty physicians who spend substantial time in the clinic know the residents’ patients, provide greater continuity of care, anchor clinic teams, and coordinate coverage for residents when they are on other rotations. Clinic and residency program leaders generally favored a shift toward a focused or hybrid model. The authors view the hybrid model as a practical way to balance the challenges of having a focused faculty with the multiple responsibilities facing university- and community-based faculty.
Anesthesia-induced immune modulation
Authors: Rossaint Jan , Zarbock Alexander
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

Surgery, invasive procedures and anesthesia itself may induce an inflammatory response in the patient. This represents an evolutionary inherited and conserved response of the host to environmental stimuli and may lead to both beneficial and potentially harmful effects. This review highlights the mechanisms of anesthesia-induced and perioperative immune modulation.

Recent findings

The innate and adaptive immune system serve the host in protection against invading pathogens. Yet, an inflammatory immune response may also be induced by different noninfectious stimuli, for example invasive perioperative procedures and the surgical trauma itself. These stimuli may lead to the activation of the immune system with the consequence of perturbation of cell, tissue of even organ functions in cases of an overshooting immune response. Several perioperative factors have been identified that modulate the immune response, for example different anesthetic drugs and surgical tissue injury, but their impact on immune system modulation may also vary with respect to the procedural context and include both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects.

The current review will highlight the current knowledge on the perioperative anesthesia-induced and surgery-induced modulation of the immune response and also address possible intervention strategies for the development of future therapeutic approaches.
Update on pregnancy complications in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Marder Wendy
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

This review summarizes recent research in the field of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and pregnancy with focus on clinical and biochemical predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), accumulating evidence for the safety and efficacy of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in pregnancy, and the importance of preconception counseling.

Recent findings

Ongoing research from PROMISSE investigators (Predictors of Pregnancy Outcome: Biomarkers in Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) adds to the understanding of risk factors for APOs in SLE pregnancies, including aberrant complement activation, incomplete downregulation of lupus-associated transcription factors, and lower socioeconomic status. Evidence supporting numerous advantages for continuing HCQ in pregnancy, as well as support for low-dose aspirin in preeclampsia prevention is reviewed. Practice gaps exist among rheumatologists in ensuring effective contraception when women of childbearing age are undergoing therapy with potentially fetotoxic medications. The publication of organizational guidelines provides evidence-based recommendations on lupus pregnancy management.

Outcomes of lupus pregnancies continue to improve with understanding of risk factors that predict APOs as well as improvements in disease management. Rheumatologists caring for women with SLE should be familiar with the most up-to-date research in order to optimize pregnancy outcomes in this population.