bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulatory B cells in neuroimmunological diseases
Authors: Miyazaki Yusei , Niino Masaaki
Published: April 2020

The idea that B cells participate in immune regulation was initially postulated from observations in animals in the 1970s. It is now established that certain B‐cell populations, known as regulatory B cells, regulate immune reactions in various animal models of autoimmunity, chiefly through the production of interleukin‐10. Subsequent to these findings in animals, several B‐cell subsets have been identified in human blood that are capable of producing interleukin‐10 when stimulated ex vivo. Although we still do not have direct evidence showing that these interleukin‐10‐producing B cells regulate autoimmunity in humans, their functional and phenotypic homology to regulatory B cells in animals, their abnormalities reported in various autoimmune diseases and their alterations in response to treatments all suggest their regulatory role in humans. In this review, the role of regulatory B cells in three neuroimmunological diseases – multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and myasthenia gravis – are discussed.
Using the ecological significance of animal vocalizations to improve inference in acoustic monitoring programs
Authors: Wood Connor M. , Klinck Holger , Gustafson Michaela , Keane John J. , Sawyer Sarah C. , Gutiérrez R. J. , Peery M. Zachariah
Published: April 2020

Recent bioacoustic advances have facilitated large‐scale population monitoring for acoustically active species. Animal sounds, however, can of information that is underutilized in typical approaches to passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) that treat sounds simply as detections. We developed 3 methods of extracting additional ecological detail from acoustic data that are applicable to a broad range of acoustically active species. We conducted landscape‐scale passive acoustic surveys of a declining owl species and an invasive congeneric competitor in California. We then used sex‐specific vocalization frequency to inform multistate occupancy models; call rates at occupied sites to characterize interactions with interspecific competitors and assess habitat quality; and a flexible multivariate approach to differentiate individuals based on vocal characteristics. The multistate occupancy models yielded novel estimates of breeding status occupancy rates that were more robust to false detections and captured known habitat associations more consistently than single‐state occupancy models agnostic to sex. Call rate was related to the presence of a competitor but not habitat quality and thus could constitute a useful behavioral metric for interactions that are challenging to detect in an occupancy framework. Quantifying multivariate distance between groups of vocalizations provided a novel quantitative means of discriminating individuals with ≥20 vocalizations and a flexible tool for balancing type I and II errors. Therefore, it appears possible to estimate site turnover and demographic rates, rather than just occupancy metrics, in PAM programs. Our methods can be applied individually or in concert and are likely generalizable to many acoustically active species. As such, they are opportunities to improve inferences from PAM data and thus benefit conservation.
Abundance estimation of unmarked animals based on camera‐trap data
Authors: Gilbert Neil A. , Clare John D. J. , Stenglein Jennifer L. , Zuckerberg Benjamin
Published: April 2020

The rapid improvement of camera traps in recent decades has revolutionized biodiversity monitoring. Despite clear applications in conservation science, camera traps have seldom been used to model the abundance of unmarked animal populations. We sought to summarize the challenges facing abundance estimation of unmarked animals, compile an overview of existing analytical frameworks, and provide guidance for practitioners seeking a suitable method. When a camera records multiple detections of an unmarked animal, one cannot determine whether the images represent multiple mobile individuals or a single individual repeatedly entering the camera viewshed. Furthermore, animal movement obfuscates a clear definition of the sampling area and, as a result, the area to which an abundance estimate corresponds. Recognizing these challenges, we identified 6 analytical approaches and reviewed 927 camera‐trap studies published from 2014 to 2019 to assess the use and prevalence of each method. Only about 5% of the studies used any of the abundance‐estimation methods we identified. Most of these studies estimated local abundance or covariate relationships rather than predicting abundance or density over broader areas. Next, for each analytical approach, we compiled the data requirements, assumptions, advantages, and disadvantages to help practitioners navigate the landscape of abundance estimation methods. When seeking an appropriate method, practitioners should evaluate the life history of the focal taxa, carefully define the area of the sampling frame, and consider what types of data collection are possible. The challenge of estimating abundance of unmarked animal populations persists; although multiple methods exist, no one method is optimal for camera‐trap data under all circumstances. As analytical frameworks continue to evolve and abundance estimation of unmarked animals becomes increasingly common, camera traps will become even more important for informing conservation decision‐making.
Piercing technique via cholangioscopy for the reconstruction of complete anastomotic obstruction after choledochojejunostomy
Authors: Toyonaga Haruka , Hayashi Tsuyoshi , Katanuma Akio
Published: April 2020

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Adverse events related to biologicals used for patients with multiple sclerosis: a comparison between information originating from regulators and information originating from the scientific community
Authors: Minnema L. A. , Giezen T. J. , Egberts T. C. G. , Leufkens H. G. M. , Gardarsdottir H.
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

Clinical decision making is facilitated by healthcare professionals’ and patients’ adequate knowledge of the adverse events. This is especially important for biologicals used for treating multiple sclerosis (MS). So far, little is known about whether different information sources report adverse events consistently.

Methods

Biologicals authorized by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of MS were included in this study. Information on adverse events derived from phase 3 clinical trials from European Public Assessment Reports (EPARs) and from scientific publications was compared.

Results

In the study, eight biologicals used for the treatment of MS were included for which the EPAR and/or scientific publication reported a total of 707 adverse events. Approximately one‐third of the adverse events was reported in both the EPAR and scientific publication, one‐third was only reported in the EPAR and one‐third only in the scientific publication. Serious adverse events and adverse events that regulators classified as ‘important identified risk’ were significantly more often reported in both sources compared to adverse events not classified as such (respectively, 38% vs. 30% and 49% vs. 30%). Adverse events only reported in the EPAR or in the scientific publication were, in general, not described in the benefit–risk section or abstract, which were considered to be the most important sections of the documents.

Conclusions

This study showed that there is substantial discordance in the reporting of adverse events on the same phase 3 trials between EPARs and scientific publications. To support optimal clinical decision making, both documents should be considered.
A supplementary description of Longidorus diadecturus (Nematoda: Longidoridae) based on paratype specimens
Authors: Prior T. , Sirca S. , Groza M. , Karssen G.
Published: April 2020

A supplementary description of Longidorus diadecturus, based on paratype specimens and line drawings provided in the original description, is presented. This species is listed in Annex IIA of EU Regulation 2019/2072 due to its reported ability to vector Peach rosette mosaic virus.
Linear basal cell nevus with a novel mosaic PTCH1 mutation
Authors: Saeidian Amir Hossein , Cohen‐Nowak Adam , O’Donnell Megan , Shalabi Doaa , McGuinn Kathleen P. , Youssefian Leila , Vahidnezhad Hassan , Niaziorimi Fatemeh , Dasgeb Bahar , Kasper David A. , Lee Jason B. , Uitto Jouni , Nikbakht Neda
Published: April 2020

The patched tumor suppressor gene (PTCH1) encodes a receptor, which is a key component of the hedgehog signalling pathway. Mutations in PTCH1 are implicated in the development of sporadic basal cell carcinomas (BCC), as well as those in Gorlin Syndrome. Rarely, BCCs may develop in a linear pattern along lines of Blaschko due to cutaneous mosaicism. In cases in which there are other features of Gorlin syndrome, genomic analysis has demonstrated lesional mutations in the Hedgehog signalling pathway. Causative mutations, however, have not been firmly demonstrated in the cases of linear and segmental BCCs in otherwise healthy individuals. Herein, we report a case of a 31 year‐old Caucasian woman with linear development of multiple superficial BCCs in a Blaschkoid distribution without other characteristic findings of Gorlin syndrome. Genomic analysis of lesional skin by whole‐exome sequencing identified a novel heterozygous mutation PTCH1: NM_000264.3, Exon 15, c.2336‐2337insGGTAGGA, p.Asp779Glufs*13 in PTCH1, shared by two discrete samples within the lesion, while no mutations were found in the non‐lesional skin or peripheral blood. Given the young age of our patient and linear distribution of BCCs on non‐sun exposed skin, our findings suggest segmental mosaicism. The patient was treated with topical 5% imiquimod with histologically confirmed clearance of BCCs in 2 months.
Progress on ocular siRNA gene‐silencing therapy and drug delivery systems
Authors: Jiang Jinjin , Zhang Xinru , Tang Yue , Li Shuhan , Chen Jing
Published: April 2020

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma are global ocular diseases with high blindness rate. RNA interference (RNAi) is being increasingly used in the treatment of these disorders with siRNA drugs, bevasiranib, AGN211745 and PF‐04523655 for AMD, and SYL040012 and QPI‐1007 for glaucoma. Administration routes and vectors of gene drugs affect their therapeutic effect. Compared with the non‐viral vectors, viral vectors have limited payload capacity and potential immunogenicity. This review summarizes the progress of the ocular siRNA gene‐silencing therapy by focusing on siRNA drugs for AMD and glaucoma already used in clinical research, the main routes of drug delivery and the non‐viral vectors for siRNA drugs.
JSH Guidelines for the Management of Hepatitis C Virus Infection, 2019 Update; Protective Effect of Antiviral Therapy against Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Asahina Yasuhiro ,   Drafting Committee for Hepatitis Management Guidelines, the Japan Society of Hepatology
Published: April 2020

The Drafting Committee for Hepatitis Management Guidelines established by the Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH) drafted the first version of the clinical practice guidelines for the management of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 2012. Since then, we have been publishing updates as new drugs for hepatitis C become available and new indications for existing drugs are added. The new approval of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir prompted us to publish the seventh version of the guidelines in Japanese in March 2019. We also published the first English‐language version of the JSH guidelines in 2013 and English versions of updates made to the Japanese‐language guidelines in 2014 and 2016. In 2020, the committee has decided to publish a new English version, covering general information about treatment for hepatitis C, drugs used, recommended treatments for chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, and special populations, such as patients who have renal impairment, are on dialysis, or have developed recurrence of hepatitis C after liver transplantation. Furthermore, the committee has released a separate publication covering the protective effect of antiviral therapy against hepatocarcinogenesis.
A laboratory evaluation of cell viability, radiopacity and tooth discoloration induced by regenerative endodontic materials
Authors: Oliveira L. V. , da Silva G. R. , Souza G. L. , Magalhães T. E. A. , Barbosa G. L. R. , Turrioni A. P. , Moura C. C. G.
Published: April 2020

Aim

To analyse the cytotoxicity, colour change and radiopacity of MTA Flow (MTA), UltraCal XS (UC) and Bio‐C Temp (BT).

Methodology

Human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were placed in contact with several dilutions of culture media previously exposed to the experimental materials and tested for cell viability using MTT. Bovine teeth were prepared to simulate an open apex and to mimic extensive crown fracture. The roots were filled with a mixture of agar and blood, and the materials placed over this mixture. The control group consisted of teeth filled only with agar and blood. Colour assessment analyses were performed before and immediately after material insertion and repeated at 30, 45 and 60 days using a spectrophotometer. The total colour change (ΔEab, ΔE00 and whiteness index (WI)) was calculated based on the CIELAB colour space. Digital radiographs were acquired for radiopacity analysis. Cell viability was analysed by one‐way anova, whilst differences in colour parameters (ΔEab, ΔE00 and WI) were assessed by two‐way repeated measures anova (α = 0.05). Tukey's test was used to compare the experimental groups, and Dunnett’s test was used to compare the experimental groups with the control group.

Results

MTA, UC and BT had similar cell viability to that of the control group (DMEM) (P > 0.05), except for the BT group at the 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 dilutions, which had significantly lower viability (P < 0.001). All materials were associated with discoloration values greater than what is considered to be the acceptable threshold, and BT resulted in less or similar tooth colour change than MTA and UC, respectively. Decreasing radiopacity over time was observed only in the MTA group (P = 0.007). Lower values of radiopacity were found in the BT group compared with the UC and MTA groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The new bioceramic material (BT) had acceptable cell viability, similar to that of MTA and UC at the highest dilutions, and BT resulted in less tooth colour change than MTA and UC. Despite its lower radiopacity, BT was identified radiographically.
Synthesis and performance of TiB2–B4C composites by high pressure of TiC–B mixture
Authors: Hu Meihua , Bi Ning , Liu Mingming , Li Shangsheng , Su Taichao
Published: April 2020

TiB2–B4C composites were in situ synthesized and consolidated by high pressure synthesis method from a mixture of TiC and B powders at the pressure and temperature of 5.0 GPa and 1500℃‐1900℃. The phase composition, microstructure, density, hardness, thermal conductivity, and electrical resistivity of TiB2–B4C composites were analyzed. As the increase in the synthesis temperature, the products were TiB2 and B4C phases and that crystallinity improved. TiB2–B4C composites were dense without obvious pores. TiB2–B4C composites synthesized at 1800℃ obtained the optimized performance, including the relative density of 98.2%, the Vickers hardness of 31.7 ± 1.2 GPa with the load of 9.8 N, the thermal conductivity of 30.3 ± 0.7 W/(m K), and the electrical resistivity of 3.3 × 10−3 Ω cm, respectively. The grain size of the TiB2–B4C composites changed with the increase in synthesis temperature, leading to the changes in hardness, thermal conductivity, and electrical resistivity.
Racial/ethnic differences in patients with anemia and folate deficiency
Authors: Gonzalez‐Velez Miguel , Mead‐Harvey Carolyn , Kosiorek Heidi E. , Kusne Yael N. , Rivera Candido , Bojanini Leyla , Northfelt Donald W. , Padrnos Leslie J.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To determine the presence of racial/ethnic differences in patients with anemia and serum folate deficiency.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of data from patient samples collected from January 2010 to October 2018. Reference laboratory ranges were determined by Mayo Clinic Reference Laboratories. Race and ethnicity were classified according to National Institutes of Health categories.

Results

The analysis comprised 197 974 samples. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and SF results were available for 173 337, 173 056, and 129 760 samples, respectively. Of the samples, 46 505 (26.8%) showed anemia, with a higher prevalence among American Indian/Alaskan Natives (AI/AN) 42.9% and African Americans (AA) 47.2% (P < .001). SF deficiency was present in 897 (0.7%), with a higher prevalence among AI/AN (9, [1.4%]) and AA (78, [1.2%]) and a lower prevalence in non‐Hispanic whites (NHW) (758, [0.7%]), Hispanics (40, [0.6%]), and Asians (8, [0.3%]). In multivariable analysis, the prevalence of anemia was higher in all non‐NHW racial/ethnic groups: AA (OR, 3.67, [95%CI: 3.47‐3.88, P < .001]), AI/AN (OR, 3.25, [95%CI: 2.71‐3.90, P < .001]), Asians (OR, 1.62, [95%CI: 1.47‐1.77, P < .001]), and Hispanics (OR, 1.41, [95%CI: 1.32‐1.50, P < .001]). SF deficiency was more common in AA (OR, 1.48, [95%CI: 1.17‐1.88, P.001]) and less common in Asians (OR, 0.35, [95%CI: 0.17‐0.70, P = .003]), compared with NHW.

Conclusions

We showed significant racial/ethnic differences in anemia and SF deficiency. Differences were observed especially among NHW, AA, and Asians. We believe that these differences may be explained by social determinants of health. More research is needed regarding the causes of these differences and their clinical implications at a population level.
Concordance among hematopathologists in classifying blasts plus promonocytes: A bone marrow pathology group study
Authors: Foucar Kathryn , Hsi Eric D. , Wang Sa A. , Rogers Heesun J. , Hasserjian Robert P. , Bagg Adam , George Tracy I. , Bassett Roland L. , Peterson LoAnn C. , Morice William G. , Arber Daniel A. , Orazi Attilio , Bueso‐Ramos Carlos E. ,   for the Bone Marrow Pathology Group
Published: April 2020

Enumeration of blasts and promonocytes is essential for World Health Organization (WHO) classification of myelomonocytic neoplasms. The accuracy of distinguishing blasts, promonocytes and monocytes, including normal vs abnormal monocytes, remains controversial. The objective of this analysis is to assess concordances between experienced hematopathologists in classifying cells as blasts, promonocytes, and monocytes according to WHO criteria. Each of 11 hematopathologists assessed glass slides from 20 patients [12 with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and 8 with acute myeloid leukemia (AML)] including blood and BM aspirate smears, and limited nonspecific esterase (NSE) stains. All cases were blindly reviewed. Fleiss’ extension of Cohen's kappa for multiple raters was used on these variables, separately for peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow (BM). Spearman's rank correlation was used to assess correlations between each pair of hematopathologists for each measurement. For the classification based on the sum of blasts and promonocytes in the BM, Fleiss’ kappa was estimated as 0.744. For PB, categorizing patients according to the sum of blasts and promonocytes, Fleiss’ kappa was estimated as 0.949. Distinction of abnormal monocytes from normal monocytes in PB did not achieve a good concordance and showed strong evidence of differences between hematopathologists (P < .0001). The hematopathologists achieved a good concordance rate of 74% in CMML vs AML classification and a high k rate, confirming that criteria for defining the blasts equivalents (blasts plus promonocytes) could be applied consistently. Identification of monocyte subtypes (abnormal vs normal) was not concordant. Our results support the practice of combining blasts/promonocytes into a single category.
Guide to Immunopharmacology: a database to boost immunology education, research and therapy
Authors: Milling Simon , Spedding Michael , Maffia Pasquale
Published: April 2020

In the era of big data, the establishment of a free database, containing all the immune drug targets and associated cell types, is of great value. To this aim, the Guide to Immunopharmacology has been created in a joint effort between the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR) and the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS). Here we highlight the structure and content of the database, which includes up‐to‐date quantitative information on the fundamental science underlying each immune target. A set of practical examples and tools for data mining are summarized to support immune research into drug discovery and therapeutics.
Palliative care for rare advanced lung diseases in underserved Appalachia: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Piamjariyakul Ubolrat , Smothers Angel , Young Stephanie , Petitte Trisha , Wen Sijin , Morrissey Elizabeth , Shafique Saima , Zulfikar Rafia , Sangani Rahul , Smith Carol E.
Published: April 2020

Aim

To pilot test a home end‐of‐life and palliative care intervention for family caregivers and patients with rare advanced lung diseases and to estimate effect‐size for the power analysis in a future clinical trial.

Design

This study uses a parallel randomized control trial. Families are randomly assigned to the intervention group or the control group in a 1:1 fashion.

Methods

The study population includes patients with rare advanced lung diseases and their family caregivers who are involved in patients’ home care. The control group receives standard care through their hospital or outpatient clinics. The intervention group receives standard care plus 2‐weekly home end‐of‐life and palliative care coaching by experienced community nurses. Primary outcome is breathlessness measured by shortness of breath scale. Secondary outcomes are: (a) caregivers’ anxiety and depression measures; (b) the presence of patient's signed advance directives in the medical record or not; and (c) Helpfulness of intervention measured by self‐report Helpfulness scale. The study was funded in October 2018 and received ethical Institutional Review Board approval in February 2019.

Discussion

West Virginia has one of the highest incidence rates of lung disease deaths in the nation. However, there is inadequate home end‐of‐life and palliative care for this underserved population. This is an initial interventional study of nurse‐led coaching home‐based palliative care for rare advanced lung diseases in rural Appalachia. Developing research collaboration with clinicians is essential for enrolment. Enrolment was successful due to regular meetings with pulmonologists who screened patients per the study inclusion criteria in their specialty clinic and made direct referrals to the research assistants. Results of this study will be used in the future trial.

Impact

The findings will contribute to the evidence‐based home nursing care, planning for family/patient preferences and supportive end‐of‐life palliative care for managing advanced lung diseases at home.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03813667; registered January 23, 2019. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03813667
Phylogeographic parallelism: Concordant patterns in closely related species illuminate underlying mechanisms in the historically glaciated Tasmanian landscape
Authors: Kreger Kaely May , Shaban Babak , Wapstra Erik , Burridge Christopher Paul
Published: April 2020

Aim

Knowledge of species responses to past environmental change provides a basis to predict and mitigate the outcomes of future environmental change. While paradigm studies of comparative phylogeography have surveyed dissimilar taxa as a means to identify generalities of species responses to past environmental change, the fact that such taxa are dissimilar also raises the chances that any shared patterns reflect coincident responses from different processes (‘phylogeographic convergence’). Here we advocate for and demonstrate the value of examining closely related, ecologically similar co‐distributed species in comparative phylogeographic studies aimed at inferring the environmental processes driving distributional change. Closely related species with similar environmental requirements represent valid phylogeographic replicates, meaning that shared historical distributional responses can more confidently be attributed to the operation of the same process (‘phylogeographic parallelism’).

Location

Tasmania, temperate south‐east Australia.

Taxa

We compared phylogeographic patterns observed in two closely related, co‐distributed skink species (Carinascincus) sharing similar ecological and physiological tolerances.

Methods

Using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, we reconstructed relationships between populations across the known range of C. metallicus and compared it with those of C. ocellatus. We also compared dated phylogenies inferred using Bayesian approaches, and analyses of population structure and genetic diversity.

Results

We found remarkably similar geographic patterns of genetic diversity in these two species, suggesting they responded similarly to Plio‐Pleistocene climate cycling. We infer that glacial cold and aridity forced these species into similar lowland refugial regions throughout Tasmania and the Bass Strait Islands.

Main conclusions

Examining phylogeographic patterns in closely related, ecologically similar co‐distributed species allows for confident inference of mechanisms driving historical distributional changes. This is an important step towards generating robust predictions of species responses to future environmental change.
A cost‐effectiveness analysis comparing a conventional mechanical needle to a radiofrequency device for transseptal punctures
Authors: Sanchez José M. , Shah Rahil , Kouassi Yao , Chronowic Matthew , Wilson Leslie , Marcus Gregory M.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Transseptal puncture is an integral step in various catheter‐based cardiac procedures and can be performed with either the conventional mechanical needle or an FDA‐cleared device utilizing radiofrequency (RF) energy. Although a previous randomized trial suggested that the RF transseptal device may be faster and more often successful, the increased equipment costs may dissuade operators from routine use. This analysis compares the cost‐effectiveness of the mechanical needle to the RF device during pulmonary vein isolation.

Methods

The rates of successful transseptal punctures for each device and transseptal‐related complications were determined from the peer‐reviewed medical literature. Procedural, equipment, and complication costs were obtained from peer‐reviewed medical literature and the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. The effectiveness was defined as the probability of 30‐day survival following a successful transseptal puncture. Monte Carlo probabilistic analyses tested variable effects of costs and complication rates on the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio.

Results

The 30‐day effectiveness of the RF device vs the mechanical needle was 99.7% and 98.8%, respectively. After accounting for all costs of performing a single transseptal puncture, the cost at 30 days associated with the RF device was $41 less than the mechanical needle ($21 096 vs $21 137). The RF device was similarly dominant to the mechanical needle in double transseptal puncture scenarios. Finally, the RF device was more cost‐effective than the mechanical needle at any willingness‐to‐pay in Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Despite greater equipment costs, the RF device costs less and provides better effectiveness at 30 days than the conventional mechanical needle.
Arctiin attenuates high glucose‐induced human retinal capillary endothelial cell proliferation by regulating ROCK1/PTEN/PI3K/Akt/VEGF pathway in vitro
Authors: Zhou Min , Li Guobing , Zhu Liancai , Zhou Huyue , Lu Laichun
Published: April 2020

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most prominent microvascular complications of diabetes, which remains the leading cause of legal blindness in the world. Arctiin, a bioactive compound from Arctium lappa L., has been reported to have antidiabetic activity. In this study, we investigated the effect of arctiin on a human retinal capillary endothelial cell (HRCEC) line and how arctiin inhibits cell proliferation in high glucose (HG)‐induced HRCECs. Results showed that arctiin decreased HG‐induced HRCECs proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Tube formation assay and immunofluorescence staining indicated that arctiin abrogated tube formation induced by HG‐induced HRCECs in a dose‐dependent manner via down‐regulation of VEGF expression. Mechanistic study indicated that perturbation of the ROCK1/PTEN/PI3K/Akt signalling pathway plays a vital role in the arctiin‐mediated anti‐proliferative effect. Furthermore, pre‐incubation of HRCECs with Y‐27632 attenuated arctiin‐induced cell cycle arrest, cell proliferation and tube formation inhibition. Y‐27632 also reversed the activation of PTEN, the inactivation/dephosphorylation of PI3K/Akt and down‐regulation of VEGF. Taken together, the results demonstrated that arctiin inhibits the proliferation of HG‐induced HRCECs through the activation of ROCK1 and PTEN and inactivation of PI3K and Akt, resulting in down‐regulation of VEGF, which inhibits endothelial cell proliferation.
CA9 transcriptional expression determines prognosis and tumour grade in tongue squamous cell carcinoma patients
Authors: Guan Chenyu , Ouyang Daiqiao , Qiao Yongjie , Li Kan , Zheng Guangsen , Lao Xiaomei , Zhang Sien , Liao Guiqing , Liang Yujie
Published: April 2020

CA9 is a member of the carbonic anhydrases’ family, that is often expressed in cancer cells under hypoxic condition. However, the role of CA9 in the molecular mechanisms of tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) pathogenesis remains unclear. CA9 expression was analysed using the TCGA database, and its influence on survival was performed using Kaplan‐Meier, LASSO and COX regression analyses. The correlation between CA9 and immune infiltration was investigated by CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE. Moreover, the relationship between CA9 expression and downstream molecular regulation pathways was analysed by GSEA, GO and WGCNA. CA9 expression correlated with clinical prognosis and tumour grade in TSCC. Moreover, CA9 expression potentially contributes to the regulation of cancer cell differentiation and mediates tumour‐associated genes and signalling pathways, including apoptosis, hypoxia, G2M checkpoint, PI3K/AKR/mTOR signalling and TGF‐beta signalling pathways. However, the follicular helper T cells, regulatory T cells, immune and stromal scores showed no significance between high and low CA9 expression groups. These findings suggested that CA9 plays a critical role of TSCC prognosis and tumour grade. CA9 expression significantly correlated with the regulation of cell differentiation, various oncogenes and cancer‐associated pathways.
The nursing practice environment and nurse job outcomes: A path analysis of survey data
Authors: Ambani Zainab , Kutney‐Lee Ann , Lake Eileen T.
Published: April 2020

Aims and objectives

To assess the nursing practice environments and nurse job‐related outcomes in two types of hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

Background

The nursing shortage is a challenging problem in Saudi hospitals. Studies have shown that poor practice environments and high patient‐to‐nurse ratios are associated with poor nurse job outcomes (i.e. job dissatisfaction, burnout and intention to leave) and that can lead to nurse turnover and compound the nursing shortage. However, little research has been conducted on this topic in Saudi Arabia.

Design

A cross‐sectional design. A model that links the nursing practice environment and patient‐to‐nurse ratio to nurse job outcomes was tested through a path analysis of survey data.

Methods

A sample of 404 nurses from public and military hospitals in Saudi Arabia completed a survey that included the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, the Maslach Burnout Inventory and questions related to job dissatisfaction and intention to leave the job. A model of nurse turnover was used to test the relationships among study variables. This study was carried out in accordance with the STROBE checklist for cross‐sectional studies.

Results

The nursing practice environment and nurse job outcomes were better in military hospital compared with public hospital. Overall, 53% of participants had high burnout, 39% were dissatisfied, and 26% intended to leave their jobs. The path analysis showed that the nursing practice environment and patient‐to‐nurse ratio were predictors of burnout and job dissatisfaction, which in turn lead to intention to leave. The tested model had good fit and explained the direct and indirect effects of study variables.

Conclusion

Poor nursing practice environments and high patient‐to‐nurse ratios contribute to poor nurse job outcomes in Saudi hospitals.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurse leaders can focus on enhancing practice environments and reducing patient‐to‐nurse ratios as retention strategies to improve nurse job outcomes.
Nurses' job involvement and association with continuing current position—A descriptive comparative study
Authors: Nylén‐Eriksen Mats , Grov Ellen Karine , Bjørnnes Ann Kristin
Published: April 2020

Aims and objectives

The aim of the study is to examine nurses' job involvement and intentions to continue in their current position.

Background

Globally, the supply of nurses fails to meet the labour markets' high demand. Compared to specialist health service, the community health service has the greatest challenge when it comes to nursing shortage. There is a lack of studies comparing nurses working in different parts of the healthcare system in research focusing on nurses' intentions to continue in their current position. Similarly, there has been relatively little research on nurses' job involvement, even less how it is associated with retaining the nurses, despite indications that job involvement may be the key to job‐related motivated behaviour.

Design

A descriptive comparative study with a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

The study comprises 297 nurses from the community health service and specialist health service, respectively. The relationships between nurses' intention to continue and participant characteristics were examined using binary logistic regression. Reporting followed the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Nurses in the community health service are older, have more children under the age of 18 and hold more permanent positions than nurses in the specialist health service. Job involvement is the only variable associated with nurses' intention to continue in their current position regardless of whether the nurse works in the community health service or specialist health service.

Conclusions

The results indicate that the community health service has the same possibilities as the specialist health service to retain nurses in their current jobs.

Relevance to clinical practice

The results indicate that nursing leaders/employers with a goal to retaining nurses are recommended to focus on improving the nurses' job involvement.
Can a pragmatic responsive feeding scale be developed and applied globally?
Authors: Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Segura‐Pérez Sofia
Published: April 2020

Responsive feeding (RF) has been recognized as necessary to prevent all forms of malnutrition including stunting and childhood obesity. Specific RF guidelines have been developed, but it is unclear how RF behaviours can be monitored systematically. Therefore, developing valid and reliable abbreviated and pragmatic RF scales is an important global priority. This is challenging, as RF is a construct with multiple dimensions including recognizing and responding to hunger and satiety cues, providing a nurturing environment during feeding episodes, and understanding how feeding needs evolve as a function of the developmental stage of the young child. Further, RF is embedded within the responsive parenting framework that in addition to RF includes sleep, soothing and play routines and the interconnections between them. A recent pioneer study conducted in a rural area of Cambodia validated an 8‐item RF scale through direct feeding observations of 6‐ to 23‐month‐old infants at home, as part of two cross‐sectional surveys conducted before and after a complementary feeding intervention. It is important for similar research to be conducted elsewhere to find out if it is possible or not to develop a core RF scale that is valid and reliable and that has adequate specificity and sensitivity for application in community studies and population surveys globally. As highlighted in this article, different definitions of RF have been used in the field; thus, it is important to reach consensus on a single definition to help move this research area forward.
Barking up the same tree? Lessons from workplace‐based assessment and digital badges
Authors: Martin Leslie , Sibbald Matthew
Published: April 2020

Using Noyes et al.'s review of digital badges, Martin, Sibbald explore current realities that influence their potential by comparing badging with programmatic workplace‐based assessment in competency based medical education.
Burden of serious fungal infections in the Netherlands
Authors: Buil Jochem B. , Meijer Eelco F. J. , Denning David W. , Verweij Paul E. , Meis Jacques F.
Published: April 2020

Background

Fungal diseases have an ever‐increasing global disease burden, although regional estimates for specific fungal diseases are often unavailable or dispersed.

Objectives

Here, we report the current annual burden of life‐threatening and debilitating fungal diseases in the Netherlands.

Methods

The most recent available epidemiological data, reported incidence and prevalence of fungal diseases were used for calculations.

Results

Overall, we estimate that the annual burden of serious invasive fungal infections in the Netherlands totals 3 185 patients, including extrapulmonary or disseminated cryptococcosis (n = 9), pneumocystis pneumonia (n = 740), invasive aspergillosis (n = 1 283), chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (n = 257), invasive Candida infections (n = 684), mucormycosis (n = 15) and Fusarium keratitis (n = 8). Adding the prevalence of recurrent vulvo‐vaginal candidiasis (n = 220 043), allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (n = 13 568) and severe asthma with fungal sensitisation (n = 17 695), the total debilitating burden of fungal disease in the Netherlands is 254 491 patients yearly, approximately 1.5% of the country's population.

Conclusion

We estimated the annual burden of serious fungal infections in the Netherlands at 1.5% of the population based on previously reported modelling of fungal rates for specific populations at risk. With emerging new risk groups and increasing reports on antifungal resistance, surveillance programmes are warranted to obtain more accurate estimates of fungal disease epidemiology and associated morbidity and mortality.
Hour‐specific nomogram for transcutaneous Bilirubin in newborns in Myanmar
Authors: Yasuda Saneyuki , Suzuki Hiromi , Htun Yinmon , Aye Nant San San , Oo Hnin , Oo Aung Ko , Yu Kay Zin , Sin Khine Shwe , Itoh Susumu , Kusaka Takashi
Published: April 2020

Background

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a significant health problem in Myanmar, and the rate of kernicterus is also higher than in developed countries. Non‐invasive methods for early detection and treatment of hyperbilirubinemia are urgently needed. In this study, we used transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements to develop an hour‐specific TcB nomogram for the effective management of hyperbilirubinemia in Myanmar newborns.

Methods

The bilirubin levels of neonates born in Central Women Hospital in Yangon, Myanmar were measured three times a day within 72 h after birth using a transcutaneous bilirubinometer. An hour‐specific TcB nomogram was created based on the data.

Results

Participants were 512 infants (287 boys, 225 girls) born in Central Women’s Hospital in Yangon. The mean (±SD) gestational age was 38.4 ± 1.2 weeks; birthweight was 3078 ± 412 g. A total of 3,039 plots were obtained, and the TcB nomogram was created with smoothed percentile curves (97.5th, 50th, and 2.5th percentiles) for 0–72 h after birth.

Conclusions

An hour‐specific TcB nomogram was successfully created to manage hyperbilirubinemia in Myanmar newborns.
An exploratory survey of public health nurses’ knowledge, skills, attitudes, and application of the Quad Council Competencies
Authors: Harmon Monica , Joyce Barbara L. , Johnson Regina (Gina) H. , Hicks Vicki , Brown‐Schott Nancy , Pilling Lucille , Collinge Rachelle , Brownrigg Vicki
Published: April 2020

Objective

A collaborative research team of community/public health nursing faculty and public health nurses surveyed public health nurses to explore knowledge, skills, attitudes, and application of the Quad Council Competencies for Public Health Nurses (QCC‐PHN).

Methods

Evaluate the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and application of the 2011 QCC‐PHN by public health nurses.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional design was used to answer the hypothesis related to the study objective. A convenience sample of 308 public health nurses completed an online survey.

Measurements

ANOVA was used to determine the difference between the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and application of community/public health nurses (C/PHNs) regarding the QCC‐PHN based on nursing specialty preparation, years of nursing experience, and years of C/PHN experience.

Results

C/PHNs are described and differences in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and application are delineated. A statistically significant difference was found in knowledge and attitude based upon years of C/PHN experience.

Conclusions

Recommendations are proposed for increasing the QCC‐PHN awareness, implementation, and evaluation to effectively enhance the practice of nursing C/PHN.
Identification of appropriate reference genes for qPCR analyses of porcine placentae and endometria, supplying foetuses of different size and sex, at multiple gestational days
Authors: Stenhouse Claire , Hogg Charis O. , Ashworth Cheryl J.
Published: April 2020

Recent studies suggest associations exist between foetal size and sex, and gene expression at the porcine feto‐maternal interface. It is essential to identify reference genes which have stable expression throughout gestation in feto‐placental units associated with foetuses of different size and sex. qPCR was performed for 11 genes within porcine placentae and endometria at gestational days (GD) 30, 60 and 90. Several reference genes were found to have stable expression in these samples. The combination of B2m1 and Tbp1, and Hprt1 and Tbp1 had the most stable expression in endometria and placentae, respectively. Reference genes identified as having stable expression were utilized in a larger experiment with placentae and endometria associated with foetuses of different size and sex at four GD. The average expression of B2m1 and Tbp1 mRNAs was suitable for the normalization of temporal changes in endometria, and comparison between endometria supplying foetuses of different size throughout gestation. The average expression of Hprt1 and Tbp1 mRNAs was suitable for the normalization of placental mRNA expression for comparison of temporal changes and sex differences between placentae supplying foetuses of different sex throughout gestation. This combination was suitable for the normalization of mRNA expression in placentas supplying GD30, GD60 and GD90 foetuses of different size. This study has identified reference genes with stable expression in placentae and endometria across multiple gestational days, in tissues associated with foetuses of different size and sex. The results of these experiments highlight the importance of selecting appropriate reference genes for the biological comparison under investigation.
Reservoir architecture and heterogeneity distribution in floodplain sandstones: Key features in outcrop, core and wireline logs
Authors: Yeste Luis Miguel , Varela Augusto N. , Viseras César , Mcdougall Neil D. , García‐García Fernando
Published: April 2020

Exploration and production from formations deposited in low‐gradient fluvial systems is typically associated with a high degree of uncertainty; a reflection of the inherent characteristics of these environments, notably the dominance of non‐reservoir floodplain fines, rapid lateral facies variations and associated heterogeneities at different scales. However, for a field development to be successful it becomes crucial to know the location, geometry, dimensions and connectivity of the most permeable facies, related to the main channel and the associated proximal overbank deposits (crevasse‐splay complexes). With the aim of addressing this problem, a multi‐disciplinary study is presented, combining outcrop data, high‐resolution sedimentological descriptions and advanced visualization techniques based on Digital Outcrop Models. This is compared with subsurface data from behind the outcrop (core, gamma ray and borehole image logs). The Mudstone–Sandstone Unit of the Triassic Red Beds of Iberian Meseta formation in south‐central Spain was selected for the present study. The unit is characterized by the lateral and vertical stacking of four architectural elements: (i) channelized sandstone bodies; (ii) asymmetrical sigmoidal‐shaped sandstone bodies; (iii) lobe‐shaped to sheet‐like sandstone bodies; and (iv) sheet‐like mudstones. These elements represent meandering channel, crevasse‐channel‐splay and floodplain sub‐environments, comprising a distal, low‐gradient meandering fluvial system. Together with well‐documented outcrop and core facies, calibrated log responses are also presented for the channel bodies (bell‐shape Gamma Ray profile, random azimuths and low to high dip angles), the crevasse‐splay bodies (funnel‐shape Gamma Ray profile, unidirectional azimuths and low dip angles) and the floodplain deposits (serrated Gamma Ray profile, unidirectional azimuths and very low dip angles). The full integration of outcrop and subsurface datasets has enabled generation of a robust conceptual model with predictive potential when establishing the three‐dimensional stacking of facies, distribution of heterogeneities, and the connectivity between reservoir rock geobodies of primary (channel) and secondary (crevasse complex) interest in this type of fluvial reservoir.
Concurrent Thermal and Electrical Property Effects of Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Material for High-Voltage Electronics Applications
Authors: Iradukunda Ange-Christian , Kasitz Josh , Carlton Hayden , Huitink David , Deshpande Amol , Luo Fang
Published: April 2020

Rapid temperature transients sustained during the operation of high-voltage electronics can be difficult to manage by relying solely on uniform heat removal mechanisms. Phase-change materials (PCMs) can be useful as a buffer against these intermittent temperature spikes when integrated into electronic packages. However, their integration poses challenges of both physical and electrical interactions within the package, particularly in high-voltage systems. This study aims to evaluate electrical and thermal properties of nano-enhanced PCMs to inform their integration in high-voltage systems. The nanocomposites are obtained by seeding 3 × 10−5 and 3 × 10−4 wt % of gold and iron oxide particles to sorbitol. Improvements in thermal properties including thermal conductivity as high as 8% are observed; however, this comes at the expense of the dielectric strength of the PCM. Additionally, an implementation scheme for the nano-enhanced PCMs in a high-voltage-capable power module is proposed with accompanying computational and experimental performance data.
The lockdowns worked—but what comes next?
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: April 2020

Easing the rules while keeping the virus at bay will be a process of trial and error.
Ice monitor delivers a bonus: seafloor maps
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: April 2020

Laser aboard NASA ICESat-2 satellite probes reefs and shallows near coastlines.