bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence rates of wild rodent hosts and chigger mites and the infection rate ofOrientia tsutsugamushiin the central region of South Korea from 2015 to 2018
Authors: Choi Moon Bo , Kim Yeongbu , Kim Da Young , Kwon Ohseok
Published: August 2019

Outbreaks of vector‐borne diseases are dramatically increasing because of climate change, consequently increasing the importance of surveillance of endemic disease vectors. In this study, we surveyed chigger mites, vectors forOrientia tsutsugamushi—the bacteria that causes Tsutsugamushi disease—, and their rodent hosts in Gimcheon, central South Korea, in 2015–2018. A total of 225 rodents were collected, with trap rate and percentage of rodents infected by chigger mites of 9.8 and 72.4%, respectively. Six species of rodents from five genera were collected, the most common rodent beingApodemus agrarius(n = 153, infection rate = 90.8%). The highest number of rodents was collected in spring (trap rate = 10.3), but the rate of infected rodents was higher in fall (81.5%) than in spring (61.3%). Trap rate was highest for bank near waterway (17.9), but the chigger index (CI) was highest in hill (224.1). A total of 20,534 (CI 126.0) chigger mite individuals from 10 species and three genera were found on the collected rodents. The most common species wasLeptotrombidium pallidum(n = 7,982, 83.6%, CI 49.0), followed byL. palpaleandL. scutellare. Chigger mites were most frequent at banks near waterway (n = 11,093, CI 152.0) and hill (n = 2,017, CI 224.1). To detectO. tsutsugamushiin chigger mites, 450 pools of chigger mites (n = 10,991) were analyzed; 24 pools were positive—23 ofA. agrarius, the most frequently collected species in South Korea, 1 ofMicromys minutus—and the minimum positive rate (MPR) was 0.22. The detected strain types included Boryong (dominant in all years, seasons, and habitats), Jecheon, 07–489, and IIOC1202.
Viral composition and context in metagenomes from biofilm and suspended growth municipal wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Petrovich Morgan L. , Ben Maamar Sarah , Hartmann Erica M. , Murphy Brian T. , Poretsky Rachel S. , Wells George F.
Published: August 2019

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) contain high density and diversity of viruses which can significantly impact microbial communities in aquatic systems. While previous studies have investigated viruses in WWTP samples that have been specifically concentrated for viruses and filtered to exclude bacteria, little is known about viral communities associated with bacterial communities throughout wastewater treatment systems. Additionally, differences in viral composition between attached and suspended growth wastewater treatment bioprocesses are not well characterized. Here, shotgun metagenomics was used to analyse wastewater and biomass from transects through two full‐scale WWTPs for viral composition and associations with bacterial hosts. One WWTP used a suspended growth activated sludge bioreactor and the other used a biofilm reactor (trickling filter). Myoviridae, Podoviridae and Siphoviridae were the dominant viral families throughout both WWTPs, which are all from the order Caudovirales. Beta diversity analysis of viral sequences showed that samples clustered significantly both by plant and by specific sampling location. For each WWTP, the overall bacterial community structure was significantly different than community structure of bacterial taxa associated with viral sequences. These findings highlight viral community composition in transects through different WWTPs and provide context for dsDNA viral sequences in bacterial communities from these systems.
The Effects of Irrigation and Climate on the High Plains Aquifer: A County‐Level Econometric Analysis
Authors: Silva Felipe , Fulginiti Lilyan , Perrin Richard , Schoengold Karina
Published: August 2019

The High Plains Aquifer (HPA) underlies parts of eight states and 208 counties in the central area of the United States (U.S.). This region produces more than 9% of U.S. crops sales and relies on the aquifer for irrigation. However, these withdrawals have diminished the stock of water in the aquifer. In this paper, we investigate the aggregate county‐level effect on the HPA of groundwater withdrawal for irrigation, of climate variables, and of energy price changes. We merge economic theory and hydrological characteristics to jointly estimate equations describing irrigation behavior and a generalized water balance equation for the HPA. Our simple water balance model predicts, at average values for irrigation and precipitation, an HPA‐wide average decrease in the groundwater table of 0.47 feet per year, compared to 0.48 feet per year observed on average across the HPA during this 1985–2005 period. The observed distribution and predicted change across counties is in the (−3.22, 1.59) and (−2.24, 0.60) feet per year range, respectively. The estimated impact of irrigation is to decrease the water table by an average of 1.24 feet per year, whereas rainfall recharges the level by an average of 0.76 feet per year. Relative to the past several decades, if groundwater use is unconstrained, groundwater depletion would increase 50% in a scenario where precipitation falls by 25% and the number of degree days above 36°C doubles. Editor’s note: This paper is part of the featured series on Optimizing Ogallala Aquifer Water Use to Sustain Food Systems. See the February 2019 issue for the introduction and background to the series.
esdm: A tool for creating and exploring ensembles of predictions from species distribution and abundance models
Authors: Woodman Samuel M. , Forney Karin A. , Becker Elizabeth A. , DeAngelis Monica L. , Hazen Elliott L. , Palacios Daniel M. , Redfern Jessica V.
Published: August 2019

Species distribution models (SDMs) are a valuable statistical approach for both understanding species distributions and identifying potential impacts of environmental changes or management decisions to species, but multiple SDMs for the same species in a region can create confusion in decision‐making processes.

One solution is to create ensembles (i.e. combinations) of predictions from existing SDMs. However, creating ensembles can be challenging if the predictions were made at different spatial resolutions, using different data sources, or with different prediction value types (e.g. abundance and probability of occurrence).

We present esdm, an r package that allows users to create an ensemble of SDM predictions overlaid onto a single base geometry. These predictions can be evaluated (e.g. through among‐model uncertainty or AUC, TSS and RMSE metrics), mapped, and exported. esdm includes a built‐in GUI created using the r package shiny, which makes the package accessible to non‐r users.

We provide an overview of esdm functionality and use esdm to create an ensemble of predictions from three blue whale Balaenoptera musculus SDMs for the California Current Ecosystem.
A survey of the views and practices of abortion of the New Zealand Fellows and trainees of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Authors: Macfarlane Emma , Paterson Helen
Published: August 2019

Background

Abortion is a common procedure in New Zealand (NZ). Currently, it is only legal when two certifying consultants agree that the person seeking an abortion meets the statutory grounds outlined in Section 187A of the NZ Crimes Act (1961). The Crimes Act also states that one‐half of certifying consultants must be practising obstetricians/gynaecologists. However, with abortion law reform on the political agenda, the way that abortion services are provided in NZ may change.

Aim

This survey of NZ Fellows and trainees evaluates their attitudes toward training requirements for abortion, abortion care provision, and conscientious objection.

Materials and methods

A pre‐validated questionnaire was sent electronically to all NZ trainees and Fellows. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data analysed using generalised inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Most respondents (95.9%) believe that abortion should be available and 46.8% of respondents either provide abortion, or counsel women about their options and refer. The majority of respondents (73%) support abortion training in FRANZCOG and 68.5% support training in DRANZCOG. Qualitative data reflect a range of views on abortion, the role of conscientious objection in abortion care, and gestational limits.

Conclusion

This study identifies overall support for abortion provision in NZ and abortion training. However, there is a range of views and practices of abortion among RANZCOG trainees and Fellows that reflects the complexity of the abortion debate.
Les cabinets ministériels au Québec : pouvoirs et paradoxes
Authors: Montigny Eric , Jacob Steve
Published: August 2019

Sommaire

Cet article a pour objectif de présenter le rôle central joué par les cabinets ministériels dans la mise en place des politiques publiques au Québec. S’appuyant sur une perspective ethnographique, les auteurs y présentent le fruit de leur expérience et ce, tant au niveau ministériel que premier ministériel. Dans le contexte québécois, ils effectuent une analyse structurelle des cabinets ministériels ainsi qu’une analyse des codes culturels et règlementaires qui s’y appliquent. Ils présentent également les relations politiques et politico‐administratives qui déterminent le cheminement des dossiers initiés par les membres de l’exécutif québécois. Ils y constatent un paradoxe. Les cabinets disposent de la capacité réelle d’initier de nouvelles politiques publiques. Ils évoluent cependant dans un environnement complexe, ce qui limite considérablement leur volonté d’action. À la remorque des crises, des travaux parlementaires et des résistances administratives, ils s’avèrent plus réactifs que proactifs au quotidien.
Oligodendrocytes in intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Kang Minkyung , Yao Yao
Published: August 2019

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a cerebrovascular disorder with high mortality and disability rates. Although a lot of effort has been put in ICH, there is still no effective treatment for this devastating disease. Recent studies suggest that oligodendrocytes play an important role in brain repair after ICH and thus may be targeted for the therapies of ICH. Here in this review, we first introduce the origin, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and myelination of oligodendrocytes under physiological condition. Second, recent findings on how ICH affects oligodendrocyte biology and function are reviewed. Third, potential crosstalk between oligodendrocytes and other cells in the brain is also summarized. Last, we discuss the therapeutic potential of oligodendrocyte‐based treatments in ICH. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive review on the biology and function of oligodendrocytes under both physiological and ICH conditions.
Metabolomic Differentials in Women With and Without Fibromyalgia
Authors: Menzies Victoria , Starkweather Angela , Yao Yingwei , Thacker Leroy R. , Garrett Timothy J. , Swift‐Scanlan Theresa , Kelly Debra Lynch , Patel Param , Lyon Debra E.
Published: August 2019

A nontargeted plasma metabolomic analysis was conducted to compare differentially expressed metabolites in women with and without fibromyalgia (FM) using data and samples collected from two parent studies in women with FM (n = 20) and comparative data collected from newly recruited age‐matched women (n = 20). Blood plasma samples were analyzed for metabolite content using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Consolidation of positive and negative ion mode metabolomics data with fold change (>2 or <0.5) and variable importance of projection scores ≥1 revealed statistically significant metabolites comparing samples from women with and without FM. Metabolite profiles in patients with FM differed from the comparison group in energy, lipid and amino acid metabolites reflecting heightened oxidative stress, inflammation, and tryptophan degradation in patients with FM. Study results may contribute to further identification of unique metabolomic profiles enhancing understanding of the pathophysiology of FM and for the development of effective therapeutic options.
Phenotypic variations of gastric neoplasms in familial adenomatous polyposis are associated with endoscopic status of atrophic gastritis
Authors: Nakano Kaoru , Kawachi Hiroshi , Chino Akiko , Kita Mizuho , Arai Masami , Ide Daisuke , Saito Shoichi , Yoshimizu Shoichi , Horiuchi Yusuke , Ishiyama Akiyoshi , Yoshio Toshiyuki , Hirasawa Toshiaki , Tsuchida Tomohiro , Fujisaki Junko
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

Gastric neoplasms (GN), including gastric adenoma and carcinoma, are well known as extracolonic manifestations of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). We aimed to investigate the clinicopathological features of GN in FAP patients and to clarify their relationship with the endoscopic status of the background mucosa.

Methods

We analyzed the records of 39 patients who were diagnosed with FAP and underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy between April 2005 and July 2016. Patients were divided into two groups according to atrophic gastritis (AG) status. Endoscopic findings of GN and background mucosa, and histopathological findings, including phenotypic expression of GN and mutation locus of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene, were evaluated.

Results

Gastric neoplasms were more predominant in the AG‐positive group than in the AG‐negative group (6/9, 66.7% vs 7/30, 23.3%; P = 0.039). Of 36 GN detected in 13 patients, six GN in five patients were followed and 30 GN in eight patients were endoscopically resected and analyzed. GN in the AG‐negative group frequently showed whitish color, were located in the proximal stomach, and presented the gastric immunophenotype compared to GN in the AG‐positive group. All GN were intramucosal lesions and were curatively resected regardless of AG status. APC germline mutations were identified in 32 patients. In patients with GN, a significantly higher number of mutation loci were among exons 10–15 (codons 564–1465).

Conclusion

Clinicopathological characteristics and phenotypic expressions of GN in FAP patients depend on background mucosa status with or without AG. These findings are useful for detecting GN in FAP patients.
A cumulative belief degree approach for group decision‐making problems with heterogeneous information
Authors: Ervural Bilal , Kabak Özgür
Published: August 2019

In some complex group decision‐making (GDM) problems, the information needing to be processed may be heterogeneous. This may involve consideration of objective and subjective criteria by experts who have their own particular set of criteria, their own preference format for assessing alternatives under these criteria, and who may themselves be assigned differing importance weights as experts. This paper presents a cumulative belief degree approach to cope with heterogeneous information in multiple attribute GDM problems. The proposed approach focuses to aggregate subjective expert assessments and objective criteria that are presented in various representation formats and scales. The methodology employs transformation formulae for several preference representation scales to belief structure, including 2‐tuple representation, classical fuzzy sets, hesitant fuzzy sets, and intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Aggregation formulae are proposed to combine expert criteria evaluations and find a collective preference. A consensus degree is calculated for measuring the agreement between the experts. An illustrative example is presented to clarify the steps of the methodology, and validity of the approach is assured through comparative analysis with the existing methods.
MIM1 induces COLO829 melanoma cell death through mitochondrial membrane breakdown, GSH depletion, and DNA damage
Authors: Respondek Michalina , Beberok Artur , Rzepka Zuzanna , Rok Jakub , Wrześniok Dorota
Published: August 2019

Malignant melanoma is a high aggressive malignancy in humans and causes 60–80% of deaths from skin cancer. Defect in an intrinsic pathway of apoptosis via overexpression of Mcl‐1 is responsible for malignant melanoma development and progression, and also for resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. MIM1 is a specific low molecular Mcl‐1 protein inhibitor that is able to induce Mcl‐1‐dependent cancer cells death. Here, we examined the effect of MIM1 as well as MIM1 and dacarbazine (DTIC) mixture on cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression in COLO829 melanoma cells. Cell viability was performed by the WST‐1 assay. Analysis of apoptosis as well as cell cycle progression was determined by fluorescence image cytometer NucleoCounter NC‐3000. The obtained results demonstrated that the MIM1 exhibited high cytotoxicity against melanotic melanoma cells and induced mitochondrial membrane breakdown, GSH depletion, and DNA fragmentation. Additionally, MIM1 enhanced the proapoptotic effect of DTIC toward melanoma cells; furthermore, a mixture of these drugs caused cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase in COLO829 cells. Taken together, these data provide, for the first time, evidence that a low molecular weight Mcl‐1 inhibitor—MIM1 may be a promising agent with antitumor and proapoptotic properties toward melanoma cells.
In vitro assessment of P‐gp and BCRP transporter‐mediated drug–drug interactions of riociguat with direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Jacqueroux Elodie , Mercier Clément , Margelidon‐Cozzolino Victor , Hodin Sophie , Bertoletti Laurent , Delavenne Xavier
Published: August 2019

As an alternative to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are increasingly prescribed in combination with riociguat in the treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Pharmacokinetics of riociguat and DOACs are influenced by efflux transporters, such as P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP). This work aimed to assess P‐gp and BCRP‐mediated drug–drug interactions of riociguat with DOACs using in vitro models. Bidirectional permeabilities of apixaban and rivaroxaban were investigated across MDCK‐MDR1 and MDCK‐BCRP models, in the absence and in the presence of increasing concentrations of riociguat (0.5–100 μm). Calculated efflux ratios were subsequently used to determine riociguat inhibition percentages and half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). P‐gp–mediated efflux of apixaban and rivaroxaban was inhibited by 8% and 21%, respectively, in the presence of 100 μm riociguat. BCRP‐mediated transport of apixaban and rivaroxaban was inhibited by 36% and 77%, respectively. IC50s of riociguat on MDCK‐MDR1 and MDCK‐BCRP models were higher than 100 μm for apixaban and higher than 100 μm and 46.5 μm for rivaroxaban, respectively. This work showed an in vitro inhibition of BCRP‐mediated DOACs transport by riociguat. In vivo studies may be required to determine the clinical relevance of these transporter‐mediated interactions.
Factors influencing fallback by adult Atlantic salmon following transport into a novel river reach
Authors: Frechette Danielle M. , Goerig Elsa , Bergeron Normand E.
Published: August 2019

Transport of salmonids allows upstream migrating adults to bypass barriers to migration, for example hydroelectric dams or adverse habitats. Downstream movement (“fallback”) after transport is common and removes individuals from spawning populations, with possible detrimental consequences for population productivity. Time‐to‐event analysis was used to determine effects of fish characteristics, transport conditions and environmental variables on fallback by adult Atlantic salmon transported to an inaccessible river reach as a population enhancement strategy on the Rivière Sainte‐Marguerite Nord‐Est (Québec, Canada). Of 68 salmon transported, 19 exhibited post‐transport fallback within seven days of transport. Fork length (FL) was the only factor that increased risk of post‐transport fallback; there was a 5% increase in the proportion of large salmon (≥780 mm FL) exhibiting post‐transport fallback relative to individuals of median size (750 mm FL). Although the present study was limited by small sample size, the findings will help inform design of transport programmes in freshwater systems.
Comparing the roles of Pacific halibut and arrowtooth flounder within the Gulf of Alaska ecosystem and fishing economy
Authors: Ruzicka James J. , Kasperski Stephen , Zador Stephani , Himes‐Cornell Amber
Published: August 2019

The fishing industry of the western and central regions of the coastal Gulf of Alaska (CGoA) directly employs over 17,000 people and processes fish with a wholesale value of US$618 million annually. Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) are a valued groundfish species because of the high quality of their flesh. In contrast, arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias) are much more abundant but of low value because their flesh degrades upon heating. Both are high trophic level predators but play different roles in the ecosystem because of differences in abundance and diet. Using an end‐to‐end ecosystem model, we evaluate the impact of alternate levels of fishing effort and large‐scale changes in oceanographic conditions upon both species, the ecosystem, and the fishing economy. Reduction of longline efforts to reduce Pacific halibut mortality led to reduction in total value of all CGoA landings but increase in value landed by sport fisheries, trawl fleets, and fish pot vessels as they exploit a greater share of available halibut, sablefish, and Pacific cod. Increased trawl effort to raise arrowtooth flounder mortality led to increase in total value of all landings but large reductions in value landed by longline, jig, fish pot, and sport fleets with greater competition for available Pacific cod, halibut, and sablefish. Oceanographic conditions that enhance pelagic food chains at the expense of benthic food chains negatively impact groundfish in general, though Pacific halibut and arrowtooth flounder are resilient to these effects because of the high importance of pelagic fish in their diets.
Novel behavioural characteristics of the superoxide dismutase 1 G93A (SOD1G93A) mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis include sex‐dependent phenotypes
Authors: Kreilaus Fabian , Guerra Stefan , Masanetz Rebecca , Menne Victoria , Yerbury Justin , Karl Tim
Published: August 2019

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) involves the rapid degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons leading to weakening and paralysis of voluntary movements. Mutations in copper‐zinc superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) are a known genetic cause of ALS, and the SOD1
G93A mouse has been used extensively to investigate molecular mechanisms in ALS. In recent years, evidence suggests that ALS and frontotemporal dementia form a spectrum disorder ranging from motor to cognitive dysfunctions. Thus, we tested male and female SOD1
G93A mice for the first time before the onset of debilitating motor impairments in behavioural domains relevant to both ALS and frontotemporal dementia. SOD1
G93A males displayed reduced locomotion, exploration and increased anxiety‐like behaviours compared with control males. Intermediate‐term spatial memory was impaired in SOD1
G93A females, whereas long‐term spatial memory deficits as well as lower acoustic startle response, and prepulse inhibition were identified in SOD1
G93A mice of both sexes compared with respective controls. Interestingly, SOD1
G93A males exhibited an increased conditioned cue freezing response. Nosing behaviours were also elevated in both male and female SOD1
G93A when assessed in social paradigms. In conclusion, SOD1
G93A mice exhibit a variety of sex‐specific behavioural deficits beyond motor impairments supporting the notion of an ALS‐frontotemporal spectrum disorder. Thus, SOD1
G93A mice may represent a useful model to test the efficacy of therapeutic interventions on clinical symptoms in addition to declining motor abilities.
Methane emissions from contrasting urban freshwaters: Rates, drivers, and a whole‐city footprint
Authors: Herrero Ortega Sonia , Romero González‐Quijano Clara , Casper Peter , Singer Gabriel A. , Gessner Mark O.
Published: August 2019

Global urbanization trends impose major alterations on surface waters. This includes impacts on ecosystem functioning that can involve feedbacks on climate through changes in rates of greenhouse gas emissions. The combination of high nutrient supply and shallow depth typical of urban freshwaters is particularly conducive to high rates of methane (CH4) production and emission, suggesting a potentially important role in the global CH4 cycle. However, there is a lack of comprehensive flux data from diverse urban water bodies, of information on the underlying drivers, and of estimates for whole cities. Based on measurements over four seasons in a total of 32 water bodies in the city of Berlin, Germany, we calculate the total CH4 emission from various types of surface waters of a large city in temperate climate at 2.6 ± 1.7 Gg CH4/year. The average total emission was 219 ± 490 mg CH4 m−2 day−1. Water chemical variables were surprisingly poor predictors of total CH4 emissions, and proxies of productivity and oxygen conditions had low explanatory power as well, suggesting a complex combination of factors governing CH4 fluxes from urban surface waters. However, small water bodies (area <1 ha) typically located in urban green spaces were identified as emission hotspots. These results help constrain assessments of CH4 emissions from freshwaters in the world's growing cities, facilitating extrapolation of urban emissions to large areas, including at the global scale.
Degrowth and postcapitalism: Transformative geographies beyond accumulation and growth
Authors: Schmid Benedikt
Published: August 2019

In the light of social and environmental unsustainability and injustice, scholars from geography and neighboring disciplines question incumbent socioeconomic trajectories. Empirical evidence renders the continuing attachment to a growth‐based economy and its reconcilability with ecological limits increasingly implausible. Instead, a lively transdisciplinary debate explores alternative forms of organization beyond (economic) growth and (capital) accumulation, evolving around concepts such as degrowth and postcapitalism. These approaches propose a reflective recalibration of economic, political, and social institutions to support a temporally and spatially equitable, sustainable, and dignified survival of the human and of nonhuman species. Scholarship on transformation, however, is challenged to formulate how change beyond growth‐dependent and “capitalist” modes of social organization might unfold. It is trapped between the double utopia of the current situation: While it is clearly an illusion that society can continue along the present trajectory, fundamental change beyond capitalism seems equally implausible. Based on an extensive review of current literature, this paper looks at the largely independent debates on degrowth and postcapitalism and puts both strands of scholarship in conversation with each other. In doing so, it identifies difficulties of both literatures to formulate scenarios how a transformation beyond accumulation and growth might unfold. Turning to geographical thinking on scale and site as discussed in human geography of late, then, the paper traces hitherto unearthed potential in these spatial concepts for research on sustainability‐oriented transformation. It closes with further thoughts on a transformative geographies research agenda.
The effects of China’s growth slowdown on its provinces: Disentangling the sources
Authors: Chen Anping , Groenewold Nicolaas
Published: August 2019

Since 2007, China's growth has fallen from around 10% to about 6%–7% per annum. This paper investigates the experience of this slowdown at the provincial level. We use a vector‐autoregressive modelling approach and annual data from 1978 to decompose each province's growth into various factors. We find that (a) all provinces experienced the slowdown; (b) there is considerable variation in this experience across provinces; (c) national factors dominate the provincial slowdown while province‐specific factors explain most of the interprovincial variation; (d) when the national factor is separated into supply and demand components, the supply component dominates.
Joint comorbidities among Swedish carriers of haemophilia: A register‐based cohort study over 22 years
Authors: Osooli Mehdi , Donfield Sharyne M. , Carlsson Katarina Steen , Baghaei Fariba , Holmström Margareta , Berntorp Erik , Astermark Jan
Published: August 2019

Background

A significant fraction of women with an impaired factor VIII or IX gene in the X chromosome, carriers of haemophilia, will have clotting factor activities corresponding to those seen in males with non‐severe haemophilia, hence, experience an increased bleeding tendency. Data describing the long‐term joint outcomes among carriers are limited. We compared the age at onset, frequency of joint‐related diagnoses as well as joint surgery and related hospitalizations among carriers of haemophilia with sex‐ and birthdate‐matched controls from the general population.

Methods

Carriers of haemophilia born 1941‐2008 were identified through the haemophilia treatment centres' (HTCs) databases and the National Patient Register of Sweden. For each carrier, we included up to five individuals using the Swedish population register as comparisons. Data for the period 1987‐2008 were obtained.

Results

Among 539 potential carriers identified, 213 had a known factor activity. Carriers with reduced factor activity and those with unknown factor activity had received their first joint‐related diagnosis at a significantly earlier age than their comparisons. The same subgroups showed an overall 2.3‐ and 2.4‐fold higher hazard for joint‐related diagnoses compared with the general population. In addition, the hazards of joint‐related outpatient hospitalization were 3.2‐fold (95% CI: 1.2, 9.1) and 2.5‐fold (95% CI: 1.6, 3.7). This was not observed for those with normal factor activity.

Conclusion

Carriers of haemophilia suffer a significant risk for joint comorbidities. This risk seems to correlate to the factor activity. Our findings underline the importance of regular clinical follow‐up of carriers at HTCs.
Understanding practitioner perspectives of youth healthcare using thematic and lexical analyses
Authors: Dadich Ann , Jarrett Carmen
Published: August 2019

Background

Youth health issues represent a “wicked problem” – they are complex and multifaceted. Furthermore, they are likely to require novel approaches to understand their complexity and develop novel solutions.

Objective

Given the importance of youth healthcare, and the need for novel approaches, the aim of this article was to demonstrate the innovative use of two research methods – thematic and lexical analyses – to better understand practitioner perspectives of youth healthcare. It clarifies the factors that shape practitioner ability to support young people and opportunities to improve practice.

Design and Setting

Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 37 youth health practitioners. They represented government and non‐government services; hospital and community services; and metropolitan and regional services.

Results

Thematic analysis highlighted the complexity of participants' work and the judgements made as they negotiated relationships with young people and ancillary services. Lexical analysis revealed two hitherto neglected dimensions of the complexity of youth healthcare – uncertainty and corporeality.

Discussion

In addition to affirming the complexities of youth healthcare, this study revealed how practitioners (can) negotiate these complexities. These findings were only possible because of the innovative use of the two research methods.

Conclusions

This study has important theoretical, methodological and practical implications. Theoretically, it is the first to view the complexities of youth healthcare through the wicked problem lens. Methodologically, it highlights the complementary value of thematic and lexical analyses. Practically, it reinforces the importance of policy support and professional development to enable practitioners to grasp the complexities of their work.
Role of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 in the trigeminal ganglion and brain stem following dental pulp inflammation
Authors: Cha M. , Sallem I. , Jang H. W. , Jung I. Y.
Published: August 2019

Aim

To verify whether experimentally induced pulpitis activates the expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) and c‐Fos, both peripherally and centrally.

Methodology

Acute pulpitis was induced in Sprague‐Dawley rats via pulp exposure and application of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA; n = 13). Saline‐treated (n = 13) rats and rats that did not undergo tooth preparation (n = 13) served as control groups. Three days post‐CFA or post‐saline application, face grooming activity was recorded, and the rats were then euthanized to allow for immunohistochemical analysis of the trigeminal ganglion (TG) and spinal trigeminal nucleus. anova with Student's t‐test for post‐hoc analysis was used to quantify the differences in behavioural tests and immunohistochemical labelling (c‐Fos and TRPV1) in TG amongst groups. Kruskal–Wallis test with Dunnett's test for post‐hoc analysis was used to compare immunohistochemical labelling (c‐Fos and TRPV1) in the brainstem amongst groups.

Results

Histological evidence of severe pulp inflammation was found, and there was a significant increase in pain‐like behaviour (P < 0.05) in CFA‐treated animals. C‐Fos labelling and TRPV1 immunoreactivity in the TG were significantly higher (both P < 0.05) in the CFA group than in the control groups. In the spinal trigeminal nucleus, the immunoreactivity for c‐Fos was absent in the intermediate region (trigeminal subnucleus interpolaris) in all animals, with comparable expression of TRPV1 amongst all groups. In contrast, neurons in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (TSC) exhibited significant c‐Fos immunoreactivity in the CFA group (P = 0.0063). The expression of TRPV1 did not differ amongst the three groups, but the superficial laminae of the TSC exhibited significantly greater expression of TRPV1 than did the deep layers (P = 0.0014).

Conclusions

Following acute pulp inflammation, the TRPV1 channel was significantly involved in nociceptive signal processing in the peripheral nervous system, but not in the CNS. Because pulpitis induced some neuronal activation at the brainstem levels, further studies are needed to identify additional transducers that mediate signal transmission from pulpal afferents to their central targets.
LncRNA MEG3 inhibits rheumatoid arthritis through miR‐141 and inactivation of AKT/mTOR signalling pathway
Authors: Li Guoqing , Liu Ying , Meng Fanru , Xia Zhongbin , Wu Xia , Fang Yuxuan , Zhang Chunwang , Zhang Yu , Liu Dan
Published: August 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammation mediated by autoimmune responses. MEG3, a kind of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), participates in cell proliferation in cancer tissues. However, the correlation between MEG3 and RA is yet unclear. Therefore, to clarify how MEG3 works in RA, we performed a series of experiments using RA samples. We found that MEG3 was downregulated in the fibroblast‐like synoviocytes of RA patients (RA‐FLS), in comparison with healthy subjects. MEG3 was also down‐regulated evidently in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated chondrocyte. As part of our experiments, MEG3 was overexpressed in chondrocyte by transfection with lentivirus containing sequences encoding MEG3. In addition, in presence of LPS, reductions were identified not only in the cell proliferation, but also in the generation of interleukin‐23 (IL‐23), which, however were reversed in the lentivirus (containing MEG3‐encoding sequences)‐transfected chondrocytes. Up‐regulated MEG3 resulted in an increase the level of Ki67. Moreover, MEG3 was negatively correlated with miR‐141, and miR‐141 was up‐regulated in LPS‐treated chondrocyte. Inhibitory effects of MEG3 overexpression, mentioned above, were partially abolished by overexpressed miR‐141. Further, animal experiment also showed the inhibitory effect of MEG3 in overexpression on the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In‐vivoexperiments also showed that cell proliferation was facilitated by MEG3 overexpression with inhibited inflammation. In summary, the protective role of MEG3 in RA was proved to be exerted by the increase in the rate of proliferation, which might correlate to the regulatory role of miR‐141 and AKT/mTOR signal pathway, suggesting that MEG3 holds great promise as a therapeutic strategy for RA.
Perceptions of shared decision making among health care professionals
Authors: Chung Min‐Chun , Juang Wang‐Chuan , Li Ying‐Chun
Published: August 2019

Rationale and Aims

Scholars have progressively promoted shared decision making (SDM) as an optimal model of treatment decision making in clinical practice. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether health care professionals (a) understand SDM well, (b) believe that SDM is helpful in their daily practice, and (c) are willing to practice SDM during their daily activities. These are crucial research topics; however, such research is still limited. The aim of this study was to apply the knowledge‐attitude‐behavior (KAB) model to probe health care professionals' perceptions of SDM.

Methods

A questionnaire was delivered to health care professionals working in various hospitals in southern Taiwan from 9 November 2018 to 8 January 2019. In addition to KAB constructs, this study explored the barriers to SDM practice and willingness to practice SDM among health care professionals. Predictive variables were subjected to multiple linear regression analysis to investigate health care professionals' views of SDM.

Results

Valid respondents numbered 400, including physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and other health care professionals. The characteristics of these health care professionals significantly affected the mean scores of the KAB model. A correlation analyses indicated that the KAB constructs were positively correlated with each other. The top three barriers reported were lack of time (57.50%), lack of knowledge (38.25%), and difficulty of developing patient decision aids (37.75%). Respondents who were willing to practice SDM opined that SDM can provide the best health care for patients (81.62%), can maintain and improve individual clinical expertise (77.38%), and can meet patient and social expectations (48.40%).

Conclusions

Continuous emphasis on education regarding SDM and continuous promotion of a positive attitude of SDM acceptance can influence the behaviour of practicing SDM among health care professionals. Further study is required to assess the SDM practices of various health care professionals in different settings.
Paternal Depressive Symptoms and Marital Quality: A Meta‐Analysis of Cross‐Sectional Studies
Authors: Cheung Kristene , Theule Jennifer , Hiebert‐Murphy Diane , Piotrowski Caroline
Published: August 2019

Paternal depression is typically negatively associated with marital quality; however, the magnitude of the relationship varies across studies. The objectives of this study were to clarify the strength of the association and explore whether study‐specific factors moderate the strength of the relationship. The present meta‐analysis consisted of 42 studies that included a quantitative comparison between concurrent paternal depressive symptoms and marital quality. Overall, the relationship between paternal depressive symptoms and father ratings of marital quality and mother ratings of marital quality were significant. None of the explored moderators were significant. The findings of this study suggested that clinicians should be mindful of the link between paternal depression and marital quality. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.
Reply to Artificial Nutrition Belongs on POLST
Authors: Tolle Susan W. , Jimenez Valerie M. , Eckstrom Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

This letter comments on the letter by Hickman et al
The Association Between Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Incident Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults: Results From the National Institutes of Health Pooled Cohorts
Authors: Nanna Michael G. , Navar Ann Marie , Wojdyla Daniel , Peterson Eric D.
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Elevated low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) in early adulthood is associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The strength of the association between LDL‐C and ASCVD among older adults, however, is less understood.

DESIGN

We examined individual‐level cohort data from the National Institutes of Health Pooled Cohorts (Framingham Study, Framingham Offspring Study, Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Health Study), which prospectively measured CVD risk factors and incident disease.

SETTING

Prospective cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults, aged 75 years or older, free of ASCVD.

MEASUREMENTS

We evaluated the associations between LDL‐C and incident ASCVD (stroke, myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death) in unadjusted analysis and in multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. We assessed 5‐year Kaplan‐Meier ASCVD event rates in patients with and without hyperlipidemia (LDL‐C ≥130 mg/dL or on lipid‐lowering medications), stratified by the number of other risk factors, including smoking, diabetes, and hypertension.

RESULTS

We included 2667 adults, aged 75 years or older (59% female), free of ASCVD; median age was 78 years, with median LDL‐C of 117 mg/dL. In both unadjusted and adjusted analyses, there was no association between LDL‐C and ASCVD (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.022; 95% confidence interval = 0.998‐1.046; P = .07). Among adults without other risk factors (free of smoking, diabetes, and hypertension), event rates were similar between those with and without hyperlipidemia (Kaplan‐Meier rates = 5.8% and 7.0%, respectively). Among adults with one or two or more other risk factors, the presence of hyperlipidemia was also not associated with 5‐year CVD event rates (Kaplan‐Meier rates = 12.8% vs 15.0% [P = .44] for one other risk factor and 21.9% vs 24.0% [P = .59] for two or more other risk factors).

CONCLUSION

Among a well‐characterized cohort, LDL‐C was not associated with CVD risk among adults aged 75 years or older, even in the presence of other risk factors. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2560–2567, 2019
Oral collagen supplementation for skin aging: A fad or the future?
Authors: Jhawar Nikita , Wang Jordan V. , Saedi Nazanin
Published: August 2019

In recent years, oral collagen supplements have become a popular and trendy treatment in the world of skin health. It has been widely marketed to consumers for purported benefits in wrinkle reduction, skin‐rejuvenation, skin‐aging reversal, and skin plumping. However, there are currently limited data available in the literature and much regarding its possible effects on the skin has yet to be fully elucidated and understood. Here, we summarize some of the prominent studies in the literature and offer an evaluation of oral collagen supplementation for skin health.
Cancer‐related fatigue and self‐care agency: A multicentre survey of patients receiving chemotherapy
Authors: O'Regan Patricia , McCarthy Geraldine , O'Reilly Seamus , Power Derek , Bird Brian Healey , Murphy Conleth G. , Hegarty Josephine
Published: August 2019

Aims and objectives

To measure cancer‐related fatigue (CRF), self‐care agency (SCA) and fatigue self‐care strategies, and to explore the relationship between CRF and SCA.

Background

Cancer‐related fatigue has been consistently rated as the most elusive, common and severe of symptoms that patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy experience. Despite its frequency and severity, CRF is poorly managed. A renewed focus on supporting self‐care among patients with cancer has been found to reduce symptom burden, empower patients and improve patient satisfaction. Understanding the link between self‐care agency (i.e. capability and willingness to self‐care) and CRF levels will help practitioners to better support individuals on the cancer journey.

Design

A descriptive, correlational survey design was employed.

Methods

Patients (n = 362) undergoing chemotherapy with a primary diagnosis of breast, colorectal, Hodgkin's and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma cancers were recruited from four oncology centres in one city in the South of Ireland. Participants completed the Piper Fatigue Scale‐Revised, Appraisal of Self‐care Agency Scale and a researcher‐developed Fatigue Self‐Care Survey. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between CRF and self‐care agency using a dichotomous dependent variable score of four as the cut‐off between those deemed to be fatigued (≥4) and those not fatigued (<4). As recommended by the EQUATOR Network, the STROBE checklist of items for cross‐sectional studies is used to report the study.

Results

The incidence of CRF was high with 75% of participants scoring clinically relevant CRF. Higher SCA (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.93–0.99, p = .011) was associated with decreased odds of developing CRF. Having non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (OR = 3.02, 95% CI = 1.29–7.07, p = .011) was associated with increased odds of developing CRF.

Conclusions

Patient's undergoing chemotherapy experience significant fatigue. Higher capability for self‐care is associated with lower fatigue. The promotion of SCA and self‐care strategies can impact on CRF.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding the link between self‐care abilities and fatigue can lead to more individualised and tailored approaches to CRF.
Effects of microRNA‐1271 on ovarian cancer via inhibition of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and cisplatin resistance
Authors: Chen Yanyan , Wang Li , Zhou Jiefang
Published: August 2019

Aim

Efficacy of platinum based‐chemotherapy is limited by cisplatin (DDP) resistance, however, the underlying mechanism of cisplatin resistance remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the role of miR‐1271 in cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer cells.

Methods

Transfection of miR‐1271 mimic and inhibitor was performed to study the role of miR‐1271 in ovarian cancer. Cell viability was assessed by Cell Counting Kit (CCK)‐8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to determine the apoptosis rates. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot were used to detect mRNA and protein expressions. Target predicted by Targetscan7.2 was confirmed by dual‐luciferase activity assay. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) siRNA (simTOR) co‐transfection was performed to verify the role of mTOR in the suppression effect of miR‐1271 on ovarian cancer.

Results

In SKOV3 cells, miR‐1271 overexpression significantly decreased cell viability and up‐regulated apoptosis rate (from 5.54% of control to 24.03%). MiR‐1271 adversely affected SKOV3 cell migration and invasion, and induced the upregulation of E‐cadherin and downregulation of N‐cadherin and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA). Moreover, SKOV3/DDP cells had a lower miR‐1271 level, and enhancing miR‐1271 contributed strongly to cisplatin‐induced apoptosis through altering the expressions of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 associated X protein (BAX), cleaved caspase‐3 and B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2). In contrast, the opposite result was observed in miR‐1271 inhibitor. mTOR was identified to be a target of miR‐1271. SimTOR partially reversed the increased cell viability under the effect of miR‐1271 inhibitor.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that miR‐1271 can inhibit the ovarian cancer epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and sensitize resistant cells to cisplatin‐induced apoptosis through blocking mTOR expression.