bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro‐XRF analysis of silver decorations on Archaic helmets from Olympia
Authors: Grethe R. , Karydas A. G. , Kantarelou V. , Zacharias N.
Published: March 2020

Quantitative micro‐X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were performed on 19 silver decorations of six Archaic bronze helmets from the archaeological site of Olympia, Greece. The principal aim of the study was to investigate technological aspects of the smelting process that influence the composition of Ag, reveal possible elemental correlations and shed light on its source, assigning a likely provenance. The XRF results revealed that all decorations contain high amounts of Ag > 95%. The quantitative determination of several fingerprint minor elements, such as Au, Pb and Bi, provided interesting insights related to the efficiency of the cupellation process, the ore type used for the silver extraction and the geological origin of the ores.
Intra‐active entanglements: What posthuman and new materialist frameworks can offer the learning sciences
Authors: Sheridan Mary P. , Lemieux Amélie , Do Nascimento Ashley , Arnseth Hans Christian
Published: March 2020

This paper examines what new materialist and posthumanist frameworks can offer learning science research in diverse maker learning environments. We explore what is gained by grappling with the entanglements between humans, non‐humans and more‐than‐humans. To do this, we draw on Karen Barad's ethico‐onto‐epistemology and agential realism where she redefines connections to the shared world by attuning to the entangled matter that is created within intra‐actions. We use this framework across four international cases: digital media camps, a university‐level classroom‐based makerspace, a Saturday outdoor makerspace workshop and a classroom‐based museum makerspace. Each case study attends to how intra‐actions enact agential forces in maker education research—forces that posthuman and new materialist frameworks help us see. In so doing, these case studies challenge many of the assumptions prevalent in the learning sciences about mattering and its implications in research sites.
The cytoreductive prostatectomy in metastatic prostate cancer: what the individual trials are hoping to answer
Authors: Ranasinghe Weranja , Chapin Brian F. , Kim Isaac Yi , Sooriakumaran Prasanna , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: March 2020

Objective

To review the ongoing randomised trials of cytoreductive prostatectomy (CRP) in de novo hormone‐sensitive metastatic prostate cancer (HSPC) in order to identify their goals and assess their strengths and weaknesses.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE and clinical trials websites searches were performed to identify currently ongoing trials of CRP in de novo HSPC.

Results

Nine randomised clinical trials in CRP were identified and included: Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) 1802, Surgery in Metastatic Carcinoma of Prostate (SIMCAP), Adjuvant Treatments to the Local Tumour for Metastatic Prostate Cancer: Assessment of Novel Treatment Algorithms (IP2‐ATLANTA), Testing Radical prostatectomy in men with prostate cancer and oligoMetastases to the bone (TRoMbone), Impact of Radical Prostatectomy as Primary Treatment in Patients with Prostate Cancer with Limited Bone Metastases (g‐RAMPP), Cytoreductive Prostatectomy vs Cytoreductive Prostate Irradiation as a Local Treatment Option for Metastatic Prostate Cancer: a Multicentric Feasibility Trial (LoMP II), Androgen‐Deprivation Therapy or Androgen‐Deprivation Therapy Plus Definitive Treatment (Radiation or Surgery) (FUSCC‐OMPCa), and the Testing Radical Prostatectomy in Chinese Men with Prostate Cancer and oligoMetastases to the Bone study. Each study was different; assessing various primary outcome measures including overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival and feasibility to randomise between standard therapy and CRP or between radiation therapy and CRP in the metastatic setting. In the oligometastatic setting, the trials assess OS, feasibility to randomise and time to castration resistance. Similarly, a number of secondary endpoints ranging from cancer‐specific outcomes to quality‐of‐life outcomes are being investigated. The inclusion criteria in these trials also varied in terms of volume of metastatic disease (oligometastatic to high‐volume metastatic disease), diagnosis of metastases (imaging based vs biopsy confirmed), imaging modalities used (conventional to newer modalities), as well as outcomes and follow‐up regimes.

Conclusion

While there are differences in each protocol, each trial aims to address different aspects of CRP in de novo HSPC. Therefore, the specific goals of each study and the limitations have to be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of these trials.
What are the experiences of education for unaccompanied asylum‐seeking minors in the UK?
Authors: Fuller Matthew , Hayes Ben
Published: March 2020

Background

The number of refugees worldwide has increased in recent years, and with this, there has been an increase in the numbers of unaccompanied asylum‐seeking minors (UASMs) in the UK. Refugees have been found to experience notable difficulties upon resettlement, and there is evidence to suggest that education can provide a supportive role for young refugees. Although there has been research that has found that UASMs value education, there has been less research that has directly looked at the experiences of education for UASMs.

Methods

In the present study, six UASMs were interviewed and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used as a methodology to analyse the data.

Results

Five themes were identified: education facilitating socializing; education and English proficiency leading to a better life in the UK; the impact of transitions; the impact of external stressors; and a desire for additional resources to learn at one's own pace.

Conclusions

Participants within the present research expressed a strong desire for additional resources that would allow them to learn at their own pace. They also emphasized how transitions between different settings and external stressors had an impact on their experiences of education. The links between coping strategies and the participant's asylum status are also discussed with reference to relevant research in the field.
A Discriminative Multi‐Channel Facial Shape (MCFS) Representation and Feature Extraction for 3D Human Faces
Authors: Gong Xun , Li Xin , Li Tianrui , Liang Yongqing
Published: March 2020

Building an effective representation for 3D face geometry is essential for face analysis tasks, that is, landmark detection, face recognition and reconstruction. This paper proposes to use a Multi‐Channel Facial Shape (MCFS) representation that consists of depth, hand‐engineered feature and attention maps to construct a 3D facial descriptor. And, a multi‐channel adjustment mechanism, named filtered squeeze and reversed excitation (FSRE), is proposed to re‐organize MCFS data. To assign a suitable weight for each channel, FSRE is able to learn the importance of each layer automatically in the training phase. MCFS and FSRE blocks collaborate together effectively to build a robust 3D facial shape representation, which has an excellent discriminative ability. Extensive experimental results, testing on both high‐resolution and low‐resolution face datasets, show that facial features extracted by our framework outperform existing methods. This representation is stable against occlusions, data corruptions, expressions and pose variations. Also, unlike traditional methods of 3D face feature extraction, which always take minutes to create 3D features, our system can run in real time.
Development of a three‐dimensional in vitro co‐culture model to increase drug selectivity for humans
Authors: Park Sung Bum , Koh Byumseok , Jung Won Hoon , Choi Kyoung Jin , Na Yoon Ju , Yoo Hee Min , Lee Sunray , Kang Dukjin , Lee Dong‐Mok , Kim Ki Young
Published: March 2020

Aim

Insulin resistance is a metabolic state where insulin sensitivity is lower than normal condition and strongly related to type 2 diabetes. However, an in vitro model mimicking insulin resistance is rare and thus screening drugs for insulin resistance severely depends on an in vivo model. Here, to increase anti‐diabetic drug selectivity for humans, 3D ADMSCs and macrophages were co‐cultured with in‐house fabricated co‐culture plates.

Material and methods

3D co‐culture plates were designed to load ADMSCs and RAW264.7 cells containing hydrogels in separate wells while allowing cell‐cell interaction with co‐culturing media. Hydrogels were constructed using a 3D cell‐printing system containing 20 mg/ml alginate, 0.5 mg/ml gelatin and 0.5 mg/ml type I collagen. Cells containing hydrogels in 3D co‐culture plates were incubated for 10 min to allow stabilization before the experiment. 3D co‐culture plates were incubated with the CaCl2 solution for 5 min to complete the cross linking of alginate hydrogel. Cells in 3D co‐culture plates were cultured for up to 12 days depending on the experiment and wells containing adipocytes and macrophages were separated and used for assays.

Results

KR‐1, KR‐2 and KR‐3 compounds were applied during differentiation (12 days) in 3D co‐cultured mouse 3T3‐L1 adipocytes and 3D co‐cultured human ADMSCs. Glucose uptake assay using 2‐DG6P and 2‐NBDG and western blot analysis were performed to investigate changes of insulin resistance in the 3D co‐cultured model for interspecies selectivity of drug screening. KR‐1 (mouse potent enantiomer) and KR‐3 (racemic mixture) showed improvement of 2‐DG and 2‐NBDG uptake compared with KR‐2 (human potent enantiomer) in 3D co‐cultured 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. In connection with insulin resistance in a 3D 3T3‐L1 co‐cultured model, KR‐1 and KR‐3 showed improvement of insulin sensitivity compared to KR‐2 by markedly increasing GLUT4 expression. In contrast to the result of 3D co‐cultured 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, KR‐1 failed to significantly improve 2‐DG and 2‐NBDG uptake in 3D co‐cultured ADMSC adipocytes. Results of 2‐NBDG accumulation and western blot analysis also showed that KR‐2 and KR‐3 improved insulin sensitivity relatively better than KR‐1.

Conclusions

Our 3D co‐culture model with/without 3D co‐culture plates can successfully mimic insulin resistance while allowing investigation of the effects of anti‐obesity or anti‐diabetic drugs on human or mouse co‐culturing cell type. This 3D co‐culture system may accelerate screening of drugs for insulin resistance depending on species.
Mites and merchants: the crisis of English wool and textile trade revisited, c. 1275–1330†
Authors: Slavin Philip
Published: March 2020

On the basis of 7,871 manorial accounts from 601 sheep‐rearing demesnes and 187 tithe receipts from 15 parishes, this article addresses the origins, scale, and impact of the wool and textile production crisis in England,c. 1275–1350. The article argues that recurrent outbreaks of scab disease depressed sheep population and wool production levels until the early 1330s. The disease, coupled with warfare and taxation, also had a decisive role in depressing the volumes of wool exports. Despite this fact, wool merchants were still conducting business with major wool producers, who desperately needed access to the capital to replenish their flocks.
Continuous aridification since the mid‐Holocene as the main cause of C3/C4 dynamics in the grasslands of northeastern China
Authors: Li Nannan , Xie Manman , Sack Dorothy , Dubois Nathalie , Yang Xiuyun , Gao Guizai , Li Dehui , Liu Lidan , Liu Hongyan , Leng Chengcheng , Wang Jiangyong , Liu Baojian , Jie Dongmei
Published: March 2020

Ecological responses to past climate change as determined from palaeorecords offer insights into responses that may accompany future climate change. In arid and semi‐arid lands, the interactions between regional vegetation and climate change are not yet well understood, partly due to a lack of suitable palaeovegetation proxies that can provide accurate and continuous tracers for past vegetation dynamics. To gain a better understanding of long‐term vegetation dynamics, this study employs a multiproxy approach applied to sand‐palaeosol sediments of northeastern China's Songnen grasslands. Phytolith analyses and data on the stable carbon isotope composition (δ13C) of organic matter are used to reconstruct palaeovegetation composition, namely, the changing abundance of C3 and C4 species, whereas a geochemical weathering index (Fed/Fet ratios) tracks past East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) intensity. The phytolith assemblages and indices and δ13C of the soil indicate that C4 species' abundance has been increasing in the Songnen grasslands since the mid‐Holocene, although C3 vegetation is still dominant. Statistically significant negative correlations between the δ13C data and Fet/Fed ratios suggest that continuous weakening of the EASM since the mid‐Holocene may be responsible for the 13C‐enrichment of the sediments in the Songnen grasslands. Field vegetation surveys, modern topsoil phytoliths and δ13C calibration data indicate that the expansion of C4 species since the mid‐Holocene is mainly due to their ability to cope with aridity when growing season temperature is not undergoing a significant decrease. Future precipitation decreases in arid and semi‐arid lands should make C4 species more competitive in the grasslands of northeastern China.

Highlights

A continuous grassland landscape history is reconstructed from a sand‐palaeosol sequence via phytolith analysis.

Multiple independent approaches were used to reconstruct past EASM intensity and palaeovegetation patterns.

Phytolith and δ13C analyses indicate an increase in C4 species since the mid‐Holocene.

Aridification drives the increase in C4 species within the grassland ecosystem.
The use of hyoscine N‐butylbromide to treat intraoperative bradycardia during isoflurane anaesthesia in three horses
Authors: Loomes K.
Published: March 2020

Intraoperative bradycardia is not an uncommon complication in anaesthetised horses and it has been recommended that severe bradycardia (defined as heart rate (HR) <25 beats/min) during general anaesthesia, when associated with hypotension (mean arterial pressure (MAP) <70 mmHg) and other signs of inadequate tissue perfusion, should be treated with anticholinergics. Muscarinic antagonists, such as atropine and glycopyrrolate, cause positive chronotropism and dromotropism (improved atrioventricular conduction) by competitively blocking the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the heart. However, in horses, prolonged intestinal hypomotility and colic have been associated with the use of atropine and glycopyrrolate which has led to the investigation of the use of hyoscine N‐butylbromide (hyoscine NBB) to treat alpha 2 agonist‐induced bradycardia in horses. This report describes the successful use of hyoscine NBB to treat symptomatic intraoperative bradycardia in three isoflurane‐anaesthetised horses.
Modelling material flow using the Milk run and Kanban systems in the automotive industry
Authors: Simić Dragan , Svirčević Vasa , Corchado Emilio , Calvo‐Rolle José L. , Simić Svetislav D. , Simić Svetlana
Published: March 2020

Material flow management refers to the analysis and specific optimization of the inventory‐production system. Material flow can be characterized as the organized flow of material in a production process with the required sequence determined by a technological procedure. The Milk run system assures the transportation of materials at the right time and in an optimal manner. It should be combined with the Kanban system to highlight when something is required in the production process. This paper presents biological swarm intelligence, in general, and a particular model, particle swarm optimization (PSO), for modelling material flow using a Milk run system supported by a Kanban system in the automotive industry. The aim of this study is to create a new model for the optimal number of trailers for one train and optimal number of containers in a tugger train system when the route time period has been defined. A new modified PSO approach for integrating inventory‐production in a unique optimization model is used. The major modification to the original PSO is using the capacity of a container instead of a velocity component. Each new Kanban trigger is checked, and the total timing for the Milk run delivery solution is calculated for the necessary raw material capacity for each shop floor.
Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment and the risk of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Doorakkers Eva , Lagergren Jesper , Santoni Giola , Engstrand Lars , Brusselaers Nele
Published: March 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is associated with lower risks of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, but whether H. pylori eradication increases the risk of these conditions is unknown. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that H. pylori eradication leads to gradually increased risks of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma over time, while esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was assessed for comparison reasons.

Material and Methods

This Swedish nationwide, population‐based cohort study in 2005‐2012 used data from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Registry to assess eradication treatment for H. pylori. Barrett's esophagus was identified from the Swedish Patient Registry, and esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma from the Swedish Cancer Registry. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by dividing the observed risk in the H. pylori eradication treatment cohort by the expected risk derived from the Swedish population of the same age, sex, and calendar period.

Results

The cohort included 81 919 patients having had eradication treatment. For Barrett's esophagus (n = 178), the overall SIR was increased (SIR 3.67, 95% CI 3.15‐4.25), but the SIRs slightly decreased over time after eradication treatment. For esophageal adenocarcinoma (n = 11), the overall SIR was 1.26 (95% CI 0.62‐2.26), and the SIRs did not increase over time. The SIRs of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (n = 10) were not influenced by eradication treatment.

Conclusions

This study did not provide any evidence of an increasing risk of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal adenocarcinoma (or esophageal squamous cell carcinoma) over time after eradication treatment for H. pylori.
Circannual variation in habitat use of the White‐winged SnowfinchMontifringilla nivalis nivalis
Authors: Bettega Chiara , Fernández‐González Ángel , Ramón Obeso José , Delgado Maria Del Mar
Published: March 2020

High mountain areas are subject to strong seasonal fluctuations, and species inhabiting these particular environments show a high degree of habitat specialization to cope with extreme abiotic conditions. Estimates of habitat use are influenced by the spatial and seasonal scales at which they are evaluated, so studies at multiple scales are important in order to explore adaptive responses to seasonal environments. In the present study, we assessed habitat use of the White‐winged SnowfinchMontifringilla nivalissubsp.nivalis(henceforth Snowfinch) during breeding and non‐breeding seasons at three different spatial scales (diameters of 100, 250 and 500 m). Although Snowfinches clearly used high‐elevation habitats in both seasons, there was evidence that they are less specific during the non‐breeding period: the variance explained by habitat and topographical factors was lower in winter than in the breeding season. Moreover, our results suggest that the use of habitat is scale‐dependent. This pattern was especially relevant in the breeding season, perhaps because habitat use might be more related to nest‐site selection and specific foraging sites to provide food for nestlings. Snowfinches use high mountain habitats throughout the year, probably as a consequence of physiological and morphological specializations typical of high‐elevation species, but in winter they show a certain flexibility in habitat use. Snowfinches might thus adopt a flexible specialist strategy. This could represent a trade‐off to overcome possible effects on survival, condition and fitness, which can be particularly strong in harsh, unpredictable environments.
Maternal antibiotic use and vaginal infections in the third trimester of pregnancy and the risk of obesity in preschool children
Authors: Isaevska Elena , Popovic Maja , Pizzi Costanza , Fiano Valentina , Rusconi Franca , Merletti Franco , Richiardi Lorenzo , Maule Milena
Published: March 2020

Background/objectives

Several exposures during pregnancy are associated with offspring body mass index (BMI). The objective of this study was to evaluate whether third trimester antibiotic use and vaginal infections are associated with BMI in preschool children.

Subjects/methods

The study population included singletons from the NINFEA birth cohort with available anthropometric measurements at the age of 4 (3151 born with vaginal and 1111 born with caesarean delivery). Self‐reported use of antibiotics and the presence of vaginal infection in the third trimester were analysed in association with the child's BMI, classified into three categories: thinness, normal and overweight/obesity, using both the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended cut‐offs.

Results

Maternal vaginal infections in the third trimester of pregnancy were associated with higher relative risk ratios (RRR) for overweight/obesity at age of four in children delivered vaginally: 1.92 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.37 to 2.70). This association appeared stronger for children born to women with pre‐pregnancy BMI >25 kg/m2 (RRR: 4.78; 95% CI 2.45 to 9.35), and was robust when different obesity cut‐offs were used. The results regarding third trimester antibiotic use in vaginal deliveries were less conclusive (RRRs for overweight/obesity: 1.43 (0.92 to 2.21) and 1.11 (0.57 to 2.20), for the IOTF and WHO cut‐offs, respectively). Third trimester vaginal infections were not associated with BMI in children delivered by caesarean section.

Conclusions

Maternal third trimester vaginal infections are associated with an increased overweight/obesity risk in children born by vaginal delivery, and especially in children of mothers with pre‐pregnancy overweight/obesity.
Tracking of brachial and central aortic systolic pressure over the normal human lifespan: insight from the arterial pulse waveforms
Authors: Adji Audrey , O'Rourke Michael F.
Published: March 2020

Despite multiple studies, it has not been possible to account for the normal changes of blood pressure that occur from infancy to old age. We sought a comprehensive explanation, by linking brachial pressure with the well documented changes in the arterial pulse waveform, whose peak and nadir determine systolic, diastolic and pulse pressure in brachial arteries. Changes in humans arterial pulse wave contour from birth to old age can be readily explained on (i) growth, with increasing length of the body from birth to adolescence, and adult height maintained thereafter, and (ii) degeneration and dilation of the aorta from elastic fibre fracture throughout life, causing progressive increase in aortic pressure wave amplitude from early return of wave reflection, and summation of incident with reflected waves in systole. These changes throughout life complement arterial pulse waveform analysis and explain brachial cuff pressure values, with optimal pulse wave pattern for cardiac interaction apparent in adolescence.
The liver as an immunological barrier redefined by single‐cell analysis
Authors: Stamataki Zania , Swadling Leo
Published: March 2020

The liver is a front‐line immune tissue that plays a major role in the detection, capture and clearance of pathogens and foreign antigens entering the bloodstream, especially from the gut. Our largest internal organ maintains this immune barrier in the face of constant exposure to external but harmless antigens through a highly specialized network of liver‐adapted immune cells. Mapping the immune resident compartment in the liver has been challenging because it requires multimodal single‐cell deep phenotyping approaches of often rare cell populations in difficult to access samples. We can now measure the RNA transcripts present in a single cell (scRNA‐seq), which is revolutionizing the way we characterize cell types. scRNA‐seq has been applied to the diverse array of immune cells present in murine and human livers in health and disease. Here, we summarize how emerging single‐cell technologies have advanced or redefined our understanding of the immunological barrier provided by the liver.
Preparation of tunable full‐color emission carbon dots and their optical applications in ions detection and bio‐imaging
Authors: Xia Chao , Cao Mengmeng , Xia Jinfeng , Jiang Danyu , Zhou Guohong , Yu Caiyan , Li Huili
Published: March 2020

In this work, we synthesized a series of novel carbon dots (CDs) by using phenylenediamines (three isomers: o‐phenylenediamine, m‐phenylenediamine, and p‐phenylenediamine) as starting materials via facile solvothermal approach. As‐prepared CDs could emit bright blue, green, yellow, orange, and red light with relatively high PLQY, individually. Optical properties could be controlled by simply varying reaction parameters. The luminescent mechanism was investigated and analyzed in detail. Finally, the blue‐emitting CDs and green‐emitting CDs showed many appealing properties, such as high sensitivity (limit of detection = 4.52 and 3.50 nmol/L), quick response (<2 minutes), broad response window (0‐70 nmol/L), and excellent selectivity for detecting Cr6+ and Al3+ cations, respectively. Thus, they have potential to be developed as the corresponding optical probes. While as‐prepared orange‐emitting CDs could be applied as a bio‐imaging reagent due to its long‐wavelength emission, relatively high PLQY, low toxicity, excellent water solubility, and good biocompatibility.
Theoretical study on composition‐ and pressure‐dependent mechanical properties of AlON solid solution
Authors: Ren Lu , Wang Hao , Tu Bingtian , Zong Xiao , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi
Published: March 2020

In view of the application of γ‐AlON as transparent structural materials, it is significant to have a deep understanding of mechanical properties of γ‐AlON as well as their response to external pressure. First‐principles calculation combined with bond valence models was used to reconstruct Fd3m structure, and explore the composition and applied pressure dependence of mechanical properties of Al24−8/3xO24+8xN8−8x. The reconstructed Fd3m structure of Al24−8/3xO24+8xN8−8x was proved to be reasonable. The investigation demonstrated that the hardness and bulk modulus of bonds can be enhanced by increasing the ratio of bond valence to bond length and the bonds in octahedra contribute more to hardness and bulk modulus of Al24−8/3xO24+8xN8−8x. The applicability of the inferences was assessed by MgAl2O4 and c‐Si3N4. It can be inferred that the inferences cannot be applied to other spinel‐type compounds but also provide guidance to designing new spinel‐type compounds with desirable hardness and bulk modulus.
Extracellular vesicles in normal pregnancy and pregnancy‐related diseases
Authors: Zhang Jiayin , Li Haibo , Fan Boyue , Xu Wenrong , Zhang Xu
Published: March 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized, membranous vesicles released by almost all types of cells. Extracellular vesicles can be classified into distinct subtypes according to their sizes, origins and functions. Extracellular vesicles play important roles in intercellular communication through the transfer of a wide spectrum of bioactive molecules, contributing to the regulation of diverse physiological and pathological processes. Recently, it has been established that EVs mediate foetal‐maternal communication across gestation. Abnormal changes in EVs have been reported to be critically involved in pregnancy‐related diseases. Moreover, EVs have shown great potential to serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis of pregnancy‐related diseases. In this review, we discussed about the roles of EVs in normal pregnancy and how changes in EVs led to complicated pregnancy with an emphasis on their values in predicting and monitoring of pregnancy‐related diseases.
Humanin analogue, HNG, inhibits platelet activation and thrombus formation by stabilizing platelet microtubules
Authors: Ren Lijie , Li Qing , You Tao , Zhao Xuefei , Xu Xingshun , Tang Chaojun , Zhu Li
Published: March 2020

HNG, a highly potent mutant of the anti‐Alzheimer peptide‐humanin, has been shown to protect against ischaemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the underlying mechanism related to platelet activation remains unknown. We proposed that HNG has an effect on platelet function and thrombus formation. In this study, platelet aggregation, granule secretion, clot retraction, integrin activation and adhesion under flow conditions were evaluated. In mice receiving HNG or saline, cremaster arterial thrombus formation induced by laser injury, tail bleeding time and blood loss were recorded. Platelet microtubule depolymerization was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining. Results showed that HNG inhibited platelet aggregation, P‐selectin expression, ATP release, and αIIbβ3 activation and adhesion under flow conditions. Mice receiving HNG had attenuated cremaster arterial thrombus formation, although the bleeding time was not prolonged. Moreover, HNG significantly inhibited microtubule depolymerization, enhanced tubulin acetylation in platelets stimulated by fibrinogen or microtubule depolymerization reagent, nocodazole, and inhibited AKT and ERK phosphorylation downstream of HDAC6 by collagen stimulation. Therefore, our results identified a novel role of HNG in platelet function and thrombus formation potentially through stabilizing platelet microtubules via tubulin acetylation. These findings suggest a potential benefit of HNG in the management of cardiovascular diseases.
Zinc transporter 8 autoantibodies complement glutamic acid decarboxylase and insulinoma‐associated antigen‐2 autoantibodies in the identification and characterization of Japanese type 1 diabetes
Authors: Kawasaki Eiji , Oikawa Yoichi , Okada Akira , Kanatsuna Norio , Kawamura Tomoyuki , Kikuchi Tadashi , Terasaki Jungo , Miura Junnosuke , Ito Yoshihisa , Hanafusa Toshiaki
Published: March 2020

Aims/Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the significance of zinc transporter 8 autoantibody (ZnT8A) in identifying and characterizing autoimmune‐mediated type 1 diabetes in Japanese individuals.

Methods

ZnT8A were determined in 324 patients with type 1 diabetes, 191 phenotypic type 2 diabetes and 288 healthy control individuals using bridging‐type enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in addition to autoantibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase and insulinoma‐associated antigen‐2.

Results

We set a cut‐off value of 10.0 U/mL, and 25% of the type 1 diabetic patients had ZnT8A levels exceeding this level. The prevalence of ZnT8A was significantly higher in patients with acute‐onset type 1 diabetes than in those with slowly progressive and fulminant type 1 diabetes (P < 0.05). ZnT8A were more frequent in patients aged ≤10 years, but less frequent in patients with duration ≥5 years (P < 0.05). ZnT8A were detected in 5.2% of phenotypic type 2 diabetic patients, with 90% of these being ZnT8A‐single‐positive. Furthermore, the ZnT8A levels in the phenotypic type 2 diabetes cohort (143.8 ± 194.9 U/mL) were significantly higher than those in the type 1 diabetes cohort (22.9 ± 8.3 U/mL, P < 0.05). In the acute‐onset and slowly progressive type 1 diabetic patients with duration ≤5 years, additional measurement of glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies significantly increased the disease sensitivity in patients aged ≤10 years, but not in patients aged ≥11 years (11.7 vs 3.6%, P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that ZnT8A positivity was independently associated with age at sampling and insulinoma‐associated antigen‐2 autoantibody positivity.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the bridging‐type ZnT8A enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay might provide a valuable additional marker for Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes, which could, in turn, allow for an increase in the number of identifiable cases and differentiate clinical phenotypes.
Impact of patient psoriasis on partner quality of life, sexuality and empathy feelings: a study in 183 couples
Authors: Halioua B. , Maccari F. , Fougerousse A.‐C. , Parier J. , Reguiai Z. , Taieb C. , Esteve E.
Published: March 2020

Background

The impact of psoriasis on quality of life (QoL), sexuality and empathy requires better understanding in patient–partner relationships.

Objectives

To evaluate the influence of psoriasis on partner QoL, presence of sexual dysfunction (SDy) in couples and empathy in partners of psoriasis patients.

Methods

A total of 183 adult psoriasis patients and their partners participated in this observational, cross‐sectional and non‐comparative study. Severity of psoriasis was measured using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. Patient QoL was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the Short Form‐12 (SF12). The impact of psoriasis on partner QoL was measured with the Family Pso and the SF12. Presence of SDy and empathy in partners were assessed using the Family Pso.

Results

Overall, 49.7% of the patients had moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. Patient psoriasis severity and patient QoL were correlated with partner psychological distress. The largest QoL impairment was observed in female patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. The stronger QoL alteration observed in female psoriasis patients, compared to their partners, was not observed in male psoriasis patients vs. their partners. There was no relationship between partner QoL and patient age and duration of psoriasis. Most patients, but less than half of the partners, reported SDy with age being a being a significantly more important impacting factor than disease severity. Both psoriasis clinical severity and/or a significant impact on QoL were associated factors for SDy in male partners of psoriasis women, but not in female partners of psoriatic men. Reporting empathy was higher among young male partners of psoriasis patients. In both male and female partners, patient psoriasis clinical severity was not associated with empathy.

Conclusions

Psoriasis impact on patient–partner QoL, sexuality and empathy should be considered more thoroughly by dermatologists when formulating treatment plans and making treatment decisions.
Strengths and limitations of the United Kingdom Working Party criteria for atopic dermatitis in adults
Authors: Thyssen J.P. , Andersen Y. , Halling A.‐S. , Williams H.C. , Egeberg A.
Published: March 2020

Background

The United Kingdom Working Party’s (UKWP) criteria were developed to improve epidemiological research in atopic dermatitis (AD), but have not been validated in an exclusively adult European population.

Objective

To validate the UKWP criteria for AD in adults.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, three independent samples of adult individuals were drawn and interviewed: patients with a hospital diagnosis of AD or plaque psoriasis in adulthood, and general population controls. Various versions of the UKWP criteria for AD were utilized.

Results

A total of 3490 (general population), 3834 (AD) and 4016 (psoriasis) adult individuals were enrolled in the study. The best combination of the UKWP criteria leads to a sensitivity of 0.71 and a specificity of 0.96 in the general population. The criteria better captured ‘AD ever’ compared with ‘AD within the past 12 months’ and had a higher sensitivity in patients with moderate (87.2–97.7%) or severe (95.8–100%) AD at the time of interview compared with those who where asymptomatic (12.6–36.8%). The UKWP criteria also captured high proportions of psoriasis patients (19.7–47.7%) when applied in a cohort of unique psoriasis patients.

Conclusions

It remains a challenge to accurately diagnose a history of AD in adulthood since symptoms are shared with other skin conditions and AD may have resolved or can be waxing and waning, in turn leading to recall bias. The UKWP criteria performed well in the general population for the purpose of determining the prevalence, but should be used cautiously when studying comorbidity.
A prospective study of hospital episodes of adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Iacono T. , Bigby C. , Douglas J. , Spong J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Previous research has shown poor hospital experiences and dire outcomes for people with intellectual disability. The main objective of this study was to prospectively track episodes for adults with intellectual disability (ID) in Australian hospitals, with a focus on indications of the quality of care provided.

Methods

A prospective audit of hospital records over 35 months yielded quantitative data about patient characteristics, frequency and length of hospital episodes, diagnostic assessments and outcomes, post‐emergency department (ED) destinations and post‐discharge recommendations. Fifty participants were recruited largely by identification on hospital ED entry. An audit of patients' hospital records was conducted towards the end of hospital episodes, using a tool developed for the study.

Results

Participants were mostly men (70%), aged 42.9 years on average, living mostly with family (46%) or in supported accommodation (44%). Of 157 recorded episodes, 96% started in ED,  85% required urgent or semi‐urgent care and 62% were in the first 3 months of study participation. Average time in ED exceeded the 4‐h national benchmark, met in 40% of episodes. One or more diagnostic assessments were conducted in 91% episodes and others in short stay units. Almost half (49%) resulted in a ward stay. With an extreme data point removed, <1–35 days were spent in wards. The most frequent diagnosis in 75% of episodes was for digestive problems, followed by nervous system problems then injuries. Median length of bed stays reflected data available for Australian refined diagnosis‐related groups. High hospital re‐presentations were found: for 67% of episodes in total, 26% (n = 12) of which were within 72 h and 59% (n = 23) within 30 days.

Conclusions

Adults with ID presented frequently to ED and often had lengthy stays. We found no indication of poor care practices in terms of hospital staff willingness to keep patients in ED and conduct of diagnostic assessments. Frequent re‐presentations, however, indicated failed hospital care at some level.
Subcision™ plus poly‐l‐lactic acid for the treatment of cellulite associated to flaccidity in the buttocks and thighs
Authors: Mazzuco Rosemarie
Published: March 2020

Background

There is a growing demand for procedures to treat cellulite. Subcision™ is widely used for cellulite correction, and injectable poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) has been shown to be an effective option for various body conditions.

Aims

Present the results of combining Subcision™ plus PLLA, in the same session, in patients with cellulite and flaccidity.

Patients/Methods

Twenty‐four women underwent Subcision™ followed by PLLA injections. An expert panel of dermatologists evaluated before and after photographs according to Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Patients also answered a satisfaction questionnaire.

Results

The author describes the results, as well as number of sessions and dose used. The most frequent GAIS score was "great improvement." No nodules or granulomas appeared in the treated areas.

Conclusion

The combination of Subcision™ plus PLLA, in the same treatment session, promotes safe and desirable results for cellulite associated with flaccidity.
Targeting Krasg12c‐mutant cancer with a mutation‐specific inhibitor
Authors: Christensen J. G. , Olson P. , Briere T. , Wiel C. , Bergo M. O.
Published: March 2020

The RAS genes, which include H, N, and KRAS, comprise the most frequently mutated family of oncogenes in cancer. Mutations in KRAS – such as the G12C mutation – are found in most pancreatic, half of colorectal and a third of lung cancer cases and is thus responsible for a substantial proportion of cancer deaths. Consequently, KRAS has been the subject of exhaustive drug‐targeting efforts over the past 3–4 decades. These efforts have included targeting the KRAS protein itself but also its posttranslational modifications, membrane localization, protein–protein interactions and downstream signalling pathways. Most of these strategies have failed and no KRAS‐specific drugs have yet been approved. However, for one specific mutation, KRASG12C, there is light on the horizon. MRTX849 was recently identified as a potent, selective and covalent KRASG12C inhibitor that possesses favourable drug‐like properties. MRTX849 selectively modifies the mutant cysteine residue in GDP‐bound KRASG12C and inhibits GTP‐loading and downstream KRAS‐dependent signalling. The drug inhibits the in vivo growth of multiple KRASG12C‐mutant cell line xenografts, causes tumour regression in patient‐derived xenograft models and shows striking responses in combination with other agents. It has also produced objective responses in patients with mutant‐specific lung and colorectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the history of RAS drug‐targeting efforts, the discovery of MRTX849, and how this drug provides an exciting and long‐awaited opportunity to selectively target mutant KRAS in patients.
Bullied and Punished: Exploring the Links between Bullying and Discipline for Sexual and Gender Minority Youth
Authors: Horn Stacey S. , Schriber Sarah E.
Published: March 2020

This study investigated connections between sexual and gender minority youths’ (SGMY) experiences with bullying victimization and their experiences with punishment. We interviewed 20 diverse adolescents (X = 18.45) about their experiences with bullying and school discipline. Using a qualitative mapping technique, we analyzed the pathways between victimization and punishment that emerged from our participants’ narratives. Our analyses revealed that among the adolescents who had experienced victimization related to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity (or expression) (n = 17), most of them (n = 15) had also experienced punishment connected to their victimization. We identified five pathways linking victimization and bullying. Further, we found that the majority of participants were navigating school contexts rife with pervasive and ongoing harassment and that adults ineffectively intervened and often compounded the harm experienced.
High Nitrogen and Phosphorous Acquisition by Belowground Parts of Caulerpa prolifera (Chlorophyta) Contribute to the Species' Rapid Spread in Ria Formosa Lagoon, Southern Portugal
Authors: Alexandre Ana , Santos Rui
Published: March 2020

Despite worldwide proliferation of the genus Caulerpa and subsequent effects on benthic communities, little is known about the nutritional physiology of the Caulerpales. Here, we investigated the uptake rates of ammonium, nitrate, amino acids, and phosphate through the fronds and rhizoids + stolon, the internal translocation of nitrogen, and developed a nitrogen budget for the rapidly spreading Caulerpa prolifera in Ria Formosa lagoon, southern Portugal. Caulerpa prolifera acquired nutrients by both aboveground and belowground parts at similar rates, except nitrate, for which fronds showed 2‐fold higher uptake rates. Ammonium was the preferential nitrogen source (81% of the total nitrogen acquisition), and amino acids, which accounted for a significant fraction of total N acquisition (19%), were taken up at faster rates than nitrate. Basipetal translocation of 15N incorporated as ammonium was nearly 3‐fold higher than acropetal translocation, whereas 15N translocation as nitrate and amino acids was smaller but equal in either direction. The estimated total nitrogen acquisition by C. prolifera was 689 μmol · m−2 · h−1, whereas the total nitrogen requirement for growth was 672 μmol · m−2 · h−1. The uptake of ammonium and amino acids by belowground parts accounted for the larger fraction of the total nitrogen acquisition of C. prolifera and is sufficient to satisfy the species nitrogen requirements for growth. This may be one reason explaining the fast spreading of the seaweed in the bare sediments of Ria Formosa where it does not have any macrophyte competitors and the concentration of nutrients is high.
Outcome of temporary tracheostomy tube‐placement following surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in 42 dogs
Authors: Stordalen M. B. , Silveira F. , Fenner J. V. H. , Demetriou J. L.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To describe the use, complications and outcome of temporary tracheostomy tube placement as part of the management of acute upper airway obstruction in the postoperative period following multi‐level airway surgery in patients with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of records of dogs surgically treated for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome that had a temporary tracheostomy tube placed in the postoperative period.

Results

Forty‐two dogs were included. Median duration of temporary tracheostomy tube placement was 2 days (range 1 to 7). The major complication rate was 83.3%, minor complication rate was 71.4%, resulting in an overall postoperative complication rate of 95.2%. The most common postoperative complications were tracheostomy tube obstruction (32/42), cough (25/42) and tracheostomy tube dislodgement (16/42). Temporary tracheostomy tube management was classified as successful in 97.6%. Dyspnoea was the most common clinical sign in the short‐term postoperative follow‐up period, while dyspnoea and increased upper respiratory tract noise were the most common clinical sign in the long term. The median duration of follow‐up was 251 days.

Clinical Significance

In an appropriate clinical setting, placement of temporary tracheostomy tubes following multi‐level airway surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome is a useful strategy to manage postoperative airway obstruction, carrying a low mortality rate, and with a complication rate similar to that found in previous reports.
From the Editors: Introduction to the Emerging Discourse Incubator on the Topic of Emerging Approaches for Developing Supply Chain Management Theory
Authors: Flynn Barbara , Pagell Mark , Fugate Brian
Published: March 2020

The Journal of Supply Chain Management’s 2020 Emerging Discourse Incubator hopes to stimulate the development of supply chain specific theory. Well‐executed case‐based research will always be an appropriate means for developing supply chain theory. However, this EDI seeks to highlight emerging approaches to theory building that provide alternatives to case‐based research or can be used as a source of triangulation with it. To start that discourse, this issue offers three emergent approaches. In “Theorizing Supply Chains with Qualitative Big Data and Topic Modeling,” Tima Bansal, Jury Gualandris, and Nahyun Kim explore the application of topic modeling to develop supply chain theory from qualitative textual big data evidence. Anne Touboulic, Lucy McCarthy, and Lee Matthews illustrate the use of critical engaged research to develop supply chain theory in “Re‐Imagining Supply Chain Challenges Through Critical Engaged Research.” In “A New Methodology for Supply Chain Management: Discourse Analysis and its Potential for Theoretical Advancement,” Cynthia Hardy, Vikram Bhakoo, and Steve Maguire describe the potential for discourse analysis for developing supply chain management theory. These are but a few examples of potential approaches to developing supply chain theory. We welcome submissions on additional approaches and sources of data that are used in other disciplines, but have yet to be applied in the context of developing supply chain theory, and submissions on approaches that are emergent in the social sciences, in general. JSCM welcomes submissions for this EDI through the end of 2020.