bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glomerular filtration rate, blood pressure and microalbuminuria in adults born SGA: A 5‐year longitudinal study after cessation of GH treatment
Authors: Goedegebuure Wesley J. , Kerkhof Gerthe F. , Hokken‐Koelega Anita C. S.
Published: September 2019

Background

Growth hormone treatment increases glomerular filtration rate (GFR), as serum IGF‐I stimulates the renin‐angiotensin system. Infants born with a low birth weight have a smaller number of nephrons, which cause a lower GFR, a higher blood pressure and a higher albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio in early adulthood.

Method

A total of 261 young adults born SGA, previously treated with growth hormone (SGA‐GH), were longitudinally followed. Glomerular filtration rate, based on serum creatinine levels, was determined at cessation of GH treatment and at 6 months, 2 years and 5 years thereafter. Glomerular filtration rate, blood pressure and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio at 5 years after cessation of GH were compared with untreated age‐matched controls (56 untreated short subjects born SGA [SGA‐S], 118 subjects born SGA with spontaneous catch‐up growth [SGA‐CU], 135 subjects born appropriate for gestational age [AGA]).

Results

Glomerular filtration rate decreased significantly only during the first 6 months after cessation of GH treatment, while remaining well within the normal range (124.6 vs 120.2 mL/min/1.73 m2, P < .001). SGA‐GH adults had a similar GFR, blood pressure and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio as the healthy controls born SGA and AGA.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our 5 years longitudinal follow‐up study shows a decrease in GFR during 6 months after GH cessation, but thereafter GFR remained stable and within the normal range. Glomerular filtration rate, blood pressure and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio at 21 years of age were similar in GH‐treated young adults born SGA and untreated controls born SGA or AGA. We conclude that long‐term GH treatment in children born SGA has no unfavourable effects on kidney function in early adulthood.

Précis

We present a longitudinal study on kidney function in the follow‐up of growth hormone‐treated young adults who were born small for gestational age.
The adjunctive effect of rhBMP‐2 on the regeneration of peri‐implant bone defects after experimental peri‐implantitis
Authors: Sanz‐Esporrin Javier , Blanco Juan , Sanz‐Casado José Vicente , Muñoz Fernando , Sanz Mariano
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the degree of bone regeneration and re‐osseointegration attained when combining a xenogeneic bone replacement graft plus rhBMP‐2 and a collagen membrane in ligature‐induced peri‐implantitis osseous defects in dogs.

Material and Methods

Thirty‐six implants were placed in a total of 6 Beagle dogs, 3 months after tooth extraction. Once experimental peri‐implantitis was induced, defects were randomly allocated into two treatment groups: in the test group guided bone regeneration was applied using de‐proteinized bovine bone mineral with 10% collagen soak loaded with rhBMP2 covered with a natural collagen membrane. In the control group, the same scaffold and membrane were used but saline was used to soak the grafting material. After a period of 8 weeks of healing, a submerged environment clinical measurements were taken and histological outcomes were evaluated once the animals were euthanized. Histological bone defect regeneration (BR) was considered as the primary outcome variable, and dog was selected as the unit of analysis.

Results

Partial defect resolution was observed in both treatment groups. The histometric analysis showed a higher degree of bone regeneration for the test group, although differences were not statistically significant, both in terms of histological bone gain and percentage of re‐osseointegration.

Conclusions

(a) The addition of rhBMP2 to a bovine xenograft/collagen vehicle carrier failed to provide a significant added value in terms of bone regeneration or re‐osseointegration, (b) partial re‐osseointegration of a previously contaminated surface was achieved, although (c) a complete defect resolution and re‐osseointegration to the level previous to the induction of the disease failed to occur in any of the treatment groups.
British Obesity Metabolic Surgery Society endorsed guidelines for psychological support pre‐ and post‐bariatric surgery
Authors: Ogden Jane , Ratcliffe Denise , Snowdon‐Carr Vanessa
Published: September 2019

Research teams have argued that some bariatric patients require psychological input pre‐ and post‐surgery and that weight loss surgery should only be undertaken by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) that can provide psychological support. To date, no guidelines exist for the provision of psychological support pre‐ and post‐bariatric surgery. The authors were approached by British Obesity Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) in September 2017 to produce guidelines for the provision of psychological support for patients pre‐ and post‐bariatric surgery. These guidelines were developed using seven stages: (a) review of evidence base; (b) expert input; (c) feedback from BOMSS delegates; (d) feedback from the special interest group; (e) service user feedback; (f) presentation to BOMSS council; and (g) presentation to the Association for the Study of Obesity. The guidelines describe two stepped care service models for the delivery of psychological support pre‐surgery and 6 to 9 months post‐surgery involving online resources, group workshops and one‐to‐one with a clinical psychologist. They are founded upon the following principles: (a) a living document to be modified over time; (b) flexible and pragmatic; (c) advisory not prescriptive; (d) broad based content; (e) skills based delivery. These guidelines are feasible for use across all services and should minimize patient risk and maximize patient health outcomes.
To relieve or to terminate? A Confucian ethical reflection on the use of morphine for late‐stage cancer patients in China
Authors: Sun Sihan , Fan Ruiping
Published: September 2019

Morphine is usually preferred to treat moderate or severe pain for late‐stage cancer patients. However, medically unindicated or excessive morphine use may result in respiratory depression and death. This essay contends that a clear distinction between relieving pain and performing active euthanasia in the use of morphine should be made in practice. By drawing on Confucian virtue resources, we construct a Confucian conception of human dignity, including both intrinsic and acquired dignity, to analyze the circumstances of morphine use in current China. We argue that not only the Confucian view of intrinsic dignity but also that of acquired dignity would not support morphine euthanasia.
Efficacy of metformin in preventing progression to diabetes in a Chinese population with impaired glucose regulation: Protocol for a multicentre, open‐label, randomized controlled clinical study
Authors: Ji Linong , Sun Ningling , Zhang Yunliang , Zhang Lihui , Shen Sheng'ai , Wang Xueying , Li Qiuyun , Dong Luling , Ren Weidong , Qi Lin , Li Yufeng , Yan Shuang , Cheng Wenli , Kuang Hongyu , Li Guangwei
Published: September 2019

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of metformin in delaying or preventing progression to diabetes in a Chinese population with impaired glucose regulation (IGR).

Materials and methods

This multicentre, randomized, open‐label, controlled study (NCT03441750) will assess the efficacy of metformin in preventing diabetes over ≥2 years. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned (1:1) to lifestyle intervention (LSI) or metformin plus LSI, with stratification based on blood pressure, anti‐hypertensive medication use and isolated/non‐isolated impaired fasting glucose. All participants will receive LSI advice. Participants in the metformin plus LSI group will receive metformin 850 mg once daily for the first 2 weeks, and twice daily thereafter, according to tolerability.

Results

The primary objective is to compare rates of newly diagnosed diabetes in the two intervention groups. Changes in glycaemia, blood pressure, body weight, insulin resistance, and safety outcomes will also be evaluated.

Conclusions

This large clinical trial in a Chinese population with IGR aims to provide critical information to guide clinical decision‐making in order to alleviate the current diabetes epidemic.
How characteristic is the species characteristic selection scale?
Authors: Stuber Erica F. , Fontaine Joseph J.
Published: September 2019

Aim

The importance of framing investigations of organism–environment relationships to interpret patterns at relevant spatial scales is increasingly recognized. However, most research related to environmental relationships is single‐scaled, implicitly or explicitly assuming that a “species characteristic selection scale” exists. We tested the premise that a single characteristic scale exists to understand species–environment relationships within species by asking (a) what are the characteristic scales of species’ relationships with environmental predictors, and (b) is within‐species, cross‐predictor consistency in characteristic scales a general phenomenon.

Location

Nebraska, USA.

Time period

2016.

Major taxa studied

Birds.

Methods

We used data from 86 species at > 500 locations to build hierarchical N‐mixture models relating species abundance to land cover variables. By incorporating Bayesian latent indicator scale selection, we identified the spatial scales that best explain species–environment relationships with each land cover predictor. We quantified the extent of cross‐predictor consistency in characteristic scales, and contrasted this to the expectation given a single species’ characteristic scale.

Results

We found no evidence for a characteristic spatial scale explaining all abundance–environment relationships within species, rather we found substantial variation in scale‐dependence across multiple environmental attributes. Furthermore, 33% of species displayed evidence of multiple important spatial scales within environmental attributes.

Major conclusions

Within species there is little evidence for a single characteristic scale of environmental relationships and considerable variation in species’ scale dependencies. Because species may respond to multiple environmental attributes at different spatial scales, or single environmental attributes at multiple scales, we caution against any unoptimized single‐scale studies. Our results demonstrate that until a framework is developed to predict the scales at which species respond to environmental characteristics, multi‐scale investigations must be performed to identify and account for multi‐scale dependencies. Natural selection acting on species’ response to distinct environmental attributes, rather than natural selection acting on species’ perception of spatial scales per se, may have shaped patterns of scale dependency and is an area ripe for investigation.
Lamellipodium tip actin barbed ends serve as a force sensor
Authors: Koseki Kazuma , Taniguchi Daisuke , Yamashiro Sawako , Mizuno Hiroaki , Vavylonis Dimitrios , Watanabe Naoki
Published: September 2019

Cells change direction of migration by sensing rigidity of environment and traction force, yet its underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we show that tip actin barbed ends serve as an active “force sensor” at the leading edge. We established a method to visualize intracellular single‐molecule fluorescent actin through an elastic culture substrate. We found that immediately after cell edge stretch, actin assembly increased specifically at the lamellipodium tip. The rate of actin assembly increased with increasing stretch speed. Furthermore, tip actin polymerization remained elevated at the subsequent hold step, which was accompanied by a decrease in the load on the tip barbed ends. Stretch‐induced tip actin polymerization was still observed without either the WAVE complex or Ena/VASP proteins. The observed relationships between forces and tip actin polymerization are consistent with a force–velocity relationship as predicted by the Brownian ratchet mechanism. Stretch caused extra membrane protrusion with respect to the stretched substrate and increased local tip polymerization by >5% of total cellular actin in 30 s. Our data reveal that augmentation of lamellipodium tip actin assembly is directly coupled to the load decrease, which may serve as a force sensor for directed cell protrusion.
Securing Cisgendered Futures: Intersex Management under the “Disorders of Sex Development” Treatment Model
Authors: Clune‐Taylor Catherine
Published: September 2019

In this critical, feminist account of the management of intersex conditions under 2006's controversial “Disorders of Sex Development” (DSD) treatment model, I argue that like the “Optimal Gender of Rearing” (OGR) treatment model it replaced, DSD aims at securing a cisgendered future for the intersex patient, referring to a normalized trajectory of development across the lifespan in which multiple sexed, gendered, and sexual characteristics remain in “coherent” alignment. I argue this by critically analyzing two ways that intersex management has changed between OGR and DSD: 1) regarding sex‐assignment recommendations for three patient populations and, 2) with the prenatal treatment of pregnant individuals at risk of conceiving a fetus with congenital adrenal hyperplasia with the steroid hormone dexamethasone. I conclude that like OGR before it, DSD also unjustifiably presumes that typical genitalia are necessary for cisgendered development. However, unlike OGR, it appeals to the empirically inadequate, theoretically suspect, and biologically determinist model of gender development known as brain‐organization theory. Given this, I conclude that the treatment of intersex people under DSD continues to be driven by problematically heterosexist and transphobic assumptions regarding the value and normalcy of cisgendered life, while practically and discursively constituting it as such.
Waste Culture and Isolation: Prisons, Toilets, and Gender Segregation
Authors: Zurn Perry
Published: September 2019

After reviewing the use of isolation in US prisons and public restrooms to confine transgender people in solitary cells and single‐occupancy bathrooms, I propose an explanatory theory of eliminative space. I argue that prisons and toilets are eliminative spaces: that is, spaces of waste management that use layers of isolation to sanctify social or individual waste, at the outer and inner limits of society. As such, they function according to an eliminative logic. Eliminative logic, as I develop it, involves three distinct but interrelated mechanisms: 1) purification of the social center, through 2) iterative segregation, presuming and enforcing 3) the reduced relationality of marginal persons. By evaluating the historical development and contemporary function of prisons and restrooms, I demonstrate that both seek to protect the gender binary through waves of segregation by sex, race, disability, and gender identity. I further argue that both assume the thin relationality of, in this case, transgender people, who are conceived of as impervious to the effects of isolation and thus always already isolable. I conclude that, if we are to counter the violence of these isolation practices, we not only need to think holistically about eliminative spaces and logic, but also to richly reconceptualize relationality.
Tribological behavior studies of chemically bonded phosphate ceramic coatings reinforced with modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)
Authors: Xu Rongli , Bian Da , Zhao Yongwu , Xu Xiaoyan , Liu Yaxuan , Zhou Wenlei
Published: September 2019

To improve the wear resistance of the chemically bonded phosphate ceramic coatings, MWCNTs are selected as the reinforcement after the modification. The high temperature wear experiment is carried out to investigate the wear behavior of the coatings with different temperatures. The results suggest that, when the temperature is below 500℃, MWCNTs can decrease friction coefficient, and the lowest friction coefficient is about 0.28, but MWCNTs lose the lubricant function at 500℃ and the friction coefficient keeps at the level of ~ 0.68. In addition, the wear resistance of coatings is improved with the introduction of MWCNTs at 100℃ and 300℃ (the wear rate is below 15X10‐3mm3/Nm), but keeps similar level at 500℃ (the wear rate is ~ 22 × 10−3mm3/Nm). Besides, the wear mechanism of the coatings reinforced by MWCNTs is also investigated based on the wear behavior and microstructural characterizations. MWCNTs improve the fracture toughness by preventing the crack generation and forming the bridge when crack occurs, which leads to smooth wear tracks and good wear resistance of coatings. The coatings with MWCNTs achieve poor wear resistance at 500℃ because MWCNTs lose their strength and resistance to fatigue by oxidizing.
Paraneoplastic pyoderma gangrenosum in solid organ malignancy: a literature review
Authors: Shah Monica , Sachdeva Muskaan , Gefri Amnah , Jfri Abdulhadi
Published: September 2019

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare destructive, ulcerative, and inflammatory cutaneous disease. PG can be associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), arthritis, autoinflammatory syndromes, and hematological malignancies. Multiple reports in the literature have found an association between PG and solid organ tumors. This article provides a summary and review of PG in patients with solid organ malignancies. We performed a PubMed search using the terms pyoderma gangrenosum, paraneoplastic pyoderma gangrenosum, cancer, malignancy, tumor, and solid organ malignancy. Out of 529 papers screened, 19 relevant cases were included that reported patients above the age of 12 years old with antecedent, coincident, or subsequent occurrence of PG in association with a solid organ malignancy. The most common malignancies associated with PG were found in the breast (n = 6, 31.6%). In a majority of the cases, the site of PG was found to be the lower extremities (n = 12, 63.2%). Almost all cases were presented with ulcerative PG subtype (n = 18, 94.7%). Moreover, 78.9% of cases (n = 15) were reported to have PG prior to tumor diagnosis. PG lesions resolved in 100% of patients after either tumor or PG‐specific treatment. We identified a strong temporal relationship between ulcerative PG and its associated solid organ malignancy. Other associations with breast cancer and lower extremity location exist but are not as strong.
Pour de nouveaux indicateurs des droits au travail: méthode de construction et tendances 2000–2015
Authors: KUCERA David , SARI Dora
Published: September 2019

Les auteurs proposent une nouvelle méthode pour mesurer l'état de la liberté syndicale et de la négociation collective, qui repose sur un codage des atteintes repérées dans neuf sources documentaires, dont six rapports du BIT et des textes du droit national. Leurs indicateurs, disponibles pour 185 États Membres de l'OIT, ont été publiés en 2015 par le Center for Global Workers’ Rights de l'Université Penn State, en association avec l'Université ouvrière mondiale. Dans une résolution d'octobre 2018, la Conférence internationale des statisticiens du travail recommande l'adoption de cette méthode pour mesurer l'indicateur sur les droits des travailleurs (8.8.2) associé aux objectifs de développement durable.
Cystatin C regulates major histocompatibility complex‐II–peptide presentation and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐dependent polarizing cytokine production by bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Zi Mengting , Sun Li , Wang Fengge , Chen Shun , Zhao Yanfang , Liang Shuangchao , Hu Jiqiong , Liu Shan , Liu Lei , Zhan Yifan , Lew Andrew M , Xu Yuekang
Published: September 2019

Cystatin C is a ubiquitously expressed cysteine protease inhibitor that protects cells from either improper hydrolysis by endogenous proteases or pathogen growth/virulence by exogenous proteases. Although commonly used as a serum biomarker for evaluating renal function, cystatin C is associated with many immunological disorders under various pathophysiological conditions. How cystatin C affects immune cells, especially dendritic cells (DCs), however, is far from clear. In this study, we found that pharmacological treatment with or genetic overexpression of cystatin C in bone marrow‐derived DCs (BMDCs) reduced their capacity to stimulate CD4+ T‐cell proliferation, despite increased antigen uptake. This reduced capacity corresponded with reduced major histocompatibility complex‐II presentation owing to diminished levels of the chaperon H2‐DM in BMDCs. Instead of promoting proliferation, cystatin C promoted skewing of T cells toward proinflammatory T‐helper (Th)1/Th17 differentiation. This was mediated by augmented extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphorylation in BMDCs, leading to secretion of polarizing cytokines, which in turn led to the Th deviation. Collectively, our study explained the cellular and molecular basis of how this protease inhibitor can regulate immune responses, namely by affecting BMDCs and their cytokine pathway. Our results might open up an avenue for the development of therapeutic agents for the treatment of cystatin C‐related immunological diseases.
Smoking‐related violence in a mental health setting following the implementation of a comprehensive smoke‐free policy: A content analysis of incident reports
Authors: Spaducci Gilda , McNeill Ann , Hubbard Kathryn , Stewart Duncan , Yates Mary , Robson Deborah
Published: September 2019

Smoke‐free policies in mental health settings are important to protect health but are often impeded by staff concerns that physical violence may increase. We aimed to address the literature gap about the frequency, nature, and management of physical violence in relation to smoking. We compared the antecedents and containment of smoking‐related incidents of physical violence over a two‐year period, (12 months when an indoor‐only smoke‐free policy was in place, followed by 12 months after a new comprehensive smoke‐free policy was introduced) using incident reports completed by staff in a large mental health organization in London, UK. Sixty‐one smoking‐related incidents occurred during the indoor‐only smoke‐free policy period; 32 smoking‐related incidents occurred during the comprehensive smoke‐free policy. We identified four antecedent categories for physical violence: i) patient request to smoke denied by staff; ii) during a supervised smoking break; iii) staff response to a patient breach of the smoke‐free policy iv) asking for, trading or stealing smoking materials. The antecedent pattern changed across the two policy periods, with fewer incidents of denying a patient's request to smoke and a greater number of incidents involving staff responding to breaches occurring after the introduction of the comprehensive smoke‐free policy. The prohibition of smoking breaks removed this source of violence. Timeout and PRN medication were the most common containment interventions. Understanding the context of smoking‐related violence may inform clinical guidelines about its prevention and management.
Catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias originating from the para‐Hisian region with reversed C‐curve technique
Authors: Sun Jian , Zhang Peng‐Pai , Wang Qun‐Shan , Xu Quan‐Fu , Wang Zhi‐Quan , Yu Ying , Zhou Qian , Han Ya‐Qin , Li Wei , Li Yi‐Gang
Published: September 2019

Aims

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) originating from the para‐Hisian region represent a challenging location. The long‐term success rate of catheter ablation above the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve is not ideal. This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of catheter ablation for para‐Hisian VAs via a direct approach under the septal valve with reversed C‐curve technique.

Methods and Results

Twenty‐five consecutive patients with para‐Hisian VAs were included. Systematic mapping was performed in the right ventricle septum, including both the regions above and under the septal valve. Radiofrequency (RF) ablation was preferentially performed under the valve with reversed C‐curve technique in all patients. If the ablation failed under the valve, it was then performed above the valve and even in aortic sinus cusps. The earliest ventricular activation preceding surface QRS (V‐QRS) under the valve was significantly larger than that above the valve (34.8 ± 5.3 vs 27.8 ± 5.7 ms, P < .01). RF ablation under the valve with reversed C‐curve technique achieved acute success in 22 of 25 (88%) patients. Junctional rhythm developed during ablation in 3 of 25 (12%) patients and no atrioventricular block occurred. In the remaining three patients, RF application above the valve failed to eliminate the VAs and one of them achieved successful ablation in the right coronary cusp. During a mean follow‐up of 17.8 ± 9.4 months, no patients presented with VAs recurrence and no postprocedure complications occurred.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation under the valve with reversed C‐curve technique shows to be effective and safe for para‐Hisian VAs.
Global multielectrode contact‐mapping plus ablation with a single catheter in patients with atrial fibrillation: Global AF study
Authors: Kottkamp Hans , Hindricks Gerhard , Pönisch Christian , Bertagnolli Livio , Moser Fabian , Hilbert Sebastian , Rieger Andreas , Sommer Philipp
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The critical question for technological advancement of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is whether a creative new concept can combine and even improve the options of single‐tip catheters with the simplicity of the use of balloon catheters. Herein are described the results from the first clinical study of a new multielectrode contact‐mapping plus ablation array (Globe) offering such a complete solution.

Methods and Results

The multielectrode Globe array consists of 16 flat ribs with 122 gold‐plated electrodes. Each electrode can record electrograms, ablate, pace, and can measure tissue contact and temperature. Single‐shot pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is possible with temperature‐guided ablation of up to 24 electrodes simultaneously with automatic, individual power control of every electrode. Sixty patients with symptomatic AF underwent PVI using the Globe. In all sixty patients, acute PVI was achieved in 232 of 234 attempted PVs (99.1%). In 34 patients treated with “single‐hot‐shot” ablation, PVI was achieved in 136 of 136 PVs (100%). Single‐procedure 12‐month freedom from AF off antiarrhythmic drugs in the “single‐hot‐shot” group was 75.5% and freedom from AF/atrial tachycardia 72.3%. In two patients, pericardial tamponade was observed, one after a transseptal puncture, and one during array insertion with an over‐advanced sheath. There were no other device‐related serious adverse events, including stroke, PV stenosis, esophageal perforation, or phrenic nerve palsy.

Conclusions

In this first clinical series, the Globe catheter was found to be an easy‐to‐use system for single‐shot PVI. The continuously updated multielectrode voltage and activation mapping data indicate future options for mapping and ablation beyond PVI.
Special considerations in mapping and ablation of focal ventricular arrhythmias originating from the left ventricular outflow tract in patients with a transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Yamada Takumi
Published: September 2019

Transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVRs) have been increasingly performed in high‐risk patients with severe aortic stenosis. Focal ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) originating from the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) can occur after a TAVR, and radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) should be considered as a treatment option when those VAs are drug‐refractory. There are specific challenges in the RFCA of LVOT VAs after a TAVR because the tubular structure of the TAVR device sits in the LVOT. However, if the anatomical background of the TAVR and LVOT VAs are well understood and the anatomical relationship between the TAVR device and LVOT is sufficiently evaluated, RFCA of LVOT VAs in patients with a TAVR should be safe and highly successful.
Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes ameliorate erection by reducing oxidative stress damage of corpus cavernosum in a rat model of artery injury
Authors: Liu Yangzhou , Zhao Shankun , Luo Lianmin , Wang Jiamin , Zhu Zhiguo , Xiang Qian , Deng Yihan , Zhao Zhigang
Published: September 2019

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common ageing male's disease, and vascular ED accounts for the largest proportion of all types of ED. One of the mechanisms of vascular ED in the clinic is arterial insufficiency, which mainly caused by atherosclerosis, trauma and surgical. Moreover, oxidative stress damage after tissue ischemia usually aggravated the progress of ED. As a new way of acellular therapy, mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes (MSC‐Exos) have great potential in ED treatment. In the current study, we have explored the mechanism of MSC‐Exos therapy in a rat model of internal iliac artery injury‐induced ED. Compared with intracavernous (IC) injection of phosphate‐buffered saline after artery injury, of note, we observed that both mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC‐Exos through IC injection could improve the erectile function to varying degrees. More specifically, IC injection MSC‐Exos could promote cavernous sinus endothelial formation, reduce the organization oxidative stress damage, and improve the nitric oxide synthase and smooth muscle content in the corpus cavernosum. With similar potency compared with the stem cell therapy and other unique advantages, IC injection of MSC‐ Exos could be an effective treatment to ameliorate erectile function in a rat model of arterial injury.
A longitudinal examination of the interpersonal theory of suicide and effects of school‐based suicide prevention interventions in a multinational study of adolescents
Authors: Barzilay Shira , Apter Alan , Snir Avigal , Carli Vladimir , Hoven Christina W. , Sarchiapone Marco , Hadlaczky Gergö , Balazs Judit , Kereszteny Agnes , Brunner Romuald , Kaess Michael , Bobes Julio , Saiz Pilar A. , Cosman Doina , Haring Christian , Banzer Raphaela , McMahon Elaine , Keeley Helen , Kahn Jean‐Pierre , Postuvan Vita , Podlogar Tina , Sisask Merike , Varnik Airi , Wasserman Danuta
Published: September 2019

Background

Predictions of two different models for suicide attempts (SA) over 12 months, as differentially impacted by specific school‐based suicide prevention interventions, were compared. These were as follows: (a) interpersonal theory (IPTS) and (b) a two‐pathway model, one path associated with externalizing symptoms and continuum of self‐harm behaviors, and the other with internalizing symptoms.

Methods

Self‐report questionnaires were completed by 11,110 high school students from ten EU countries enrolled in the Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE) study. Baseline measures included perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness from parents and peers, health risk behaviors, self‐injury, suicide ideation (SI), and attempts (SA). SI and SA were reassessed at 12‐month follow‐up. Each model's predictions of SI and SA groups over time (i.e., repeated SA, remitted SA, SA onset, and no SA) were estimated in the no intervention/control group. The superior model was estimated across intervention groups.

Results

Interpersonal theory showed better fit compared to the two‐pathway model. In partial agreement with IPTS predictions, parental low belongingness but not peer belongingness or burdensomeness predicted greater likelihood of SI. The likelihood of repeated SA versus no SA was higher among adolescents who reported SI, self‐injury, risk behaviors, and particularly both SI and self‐injury. All three interventions attenuated the combined effect of SI and self‐injury. Youth Aware of Mental Health Program (YAM) additionally decreased the effect of risk behaviors on the likelihood of repeated SA.

Conclusions

Interpersonal theory assumptions were partially supported. Perceived interpersonal difficulties with parents were primarily related with SI, and risk behaviors and self‐injury were important predictors of SA. Suicide prevention interventions may be effective by mitigating the hazardous effect of varying self‐harm behaviors and may be further advanced by increasing parental involvement.
Intrinsic neural circuitry of depression in adolescent females
Authors: Jin Jingwen , Van Snellenberg Jared X. , Perlman Greg , DeLorenzo Christine , Klein Daniel N. , Kotov Roman , Mohanty Aprajita
Published: September 2019

Background

Adolescence is characterized by affective and cognitive changes that increase vulnerability to depression, especially in females. Neurodevelopmental models attribute adolescent depression to abnormal responses in amygdala, striatum, and prefrontal cortex (PFC). We examined whether the strength of functional brain networks involving these regions predicts depression symptoms in adolescent females.

Methods

In this longitudinal study, we recorded resting‐state functional connectivity (RSFC) in 174 adolescent females. Using a cross‐validation strategy, we related RSFC profiles that included (a) a network consisting of amygdala, striatum, and PFC (within‐circuit model), (b) connectivity of this network to the whole brain (extended‐circuit model), and (c) a network consisting of the entire brain (whole‐brain model) to depression symptoms assessed concurrently and 18 months later.

Results

In testing subsets, the within‐circuit RSFC profiles were associated with depression symptoms concurrently and 18 months later, while the extended‐circuit and whole‐brain model did not explain any additional variance in depression symptoms. Connectivity related to anterior cingulate and ventromedial prefrontal cortex contributed most to the association.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that RSFC‐based brain networks that include amygdala, striatum, and PFC are stable neural signatures of concurrent and future depression symptoms, representing a significant step toward identifying the neural mechanism of depression in adolescence.
Effect of acaricidal compound extracted from Arachis hypogaea Linn against Tetranychus cinnabarinus
Authors: Liu Ya‐ya , Liu Jia , Gao Yan‐jin , Yao Jian‐hua , Zhao Jie , Dai Guang‐hui
Published: September 2019

Six plant crude extracts were chosen to evaluate their acaricidal activity against Tetranychus cinnabarinus adults. The crude extract from the stems and leaves of Arachis hypogaea L. presented the highest activity in leaf‐dip bioassays, with an LC50 value of 3,545.98 mg/L. Further extraction using four different solvents (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n‐butyl alcohol and distilled water) demonstrated that the active components mainly existed in the petroleum ether phase. Then, the active compound, palmitic acid, was isolated from the petroleum ether phase via two‐step column chromatography using columns filled with silica gel and C‐18 and identified via mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses. The LC50 value of active palmitic acid against T. cinnabarinus was 534.58 mg/L. The present study demonstrated that the active compound extracted from A. hypogaea is a potential novel botanical acaricide for controlling T. cinnabarinus.
Chemical ecology of Cyclocephala forsteri (Melolonthidae), a threat to macauba oil palm cultivars (Acrocomia aculeata, Arecaceae)
Authors: Maia Artur Campos Dália , Reis Letícia Koutchin , Navarro Daniela Maria do Amaral Ferraz , Aristone Flavio , Colombo Carlos Augusto , Carreño‐Barrera Javier , Núñez‐Avellaneda Luis Alberto , Santos Geanne Karla Novais
Published: September 2019

The environmental unsustainability of African oil palm crops is a growing worldwide concern, and the macauba palm in tropical Southern America surges as the most viable substitute for the production of first‐generation biodiesel as a renewable fuel. Large‐scale cultivation of the macauba palm, however, is bound to suffer a major setback due to the fast emergence of a florivorous pest threat, Cyclocephala forsteri, a scarab beetle species that can severely reduce fruit yield. Like other congenerics, female and male C. forsteri are night‐foraging and driven in large numbers to macauba palm inflorescences by specific volatile organic compounds. In the present study, we assessed the kairomonal cues involved in this plant–florivore interaction and their potential application in selective pest management strategies. Headspace samples of the floral fragrance of macauba palms at our study site in Central Brazil were largely dominated by 4‐methylanisole (>97% relative amount), which along with the minor constituents 2‐isopropyl‐3‐methoxypyrazine and 2‐sec‐butyl‐3‐methoxypyrazine triggered electroantennographic responses from both female and male C. forsteri. Field behavioural assays evidenced that beetles of this species were exclusively attracted to scented traps baited with 4‐methylanisole. Increased total scent discharge attained with an ultrasonic piezoelectric diffuser has positively influenced attractiveness efficiency of the trapping setup. 4‐Methylanisole is hereby identified as yet another volatile kairomone involved in highly selective attraction of potential pest florivorous cyclocephaline scarabs associated with economically exploitable palms and should be viewed as a key element in short‐term integrated management plans for the cultivation of the macauba palm in South America.
Burned out or “just” depressed? An existential phenomenological exploration of burnout
Authors: Engebretsen Karin Mohn , Bjorbækmo Wenche Schrøder
Published: September 2019

Rationale, aim, and objective

An increasing number of patients are on sick leave from work due to fatigue‐ and pain‐related symptoms that could indicate burnout. The aetiology is unknown, and recently, it has been considered whether burnout should be a distinct medical diagnosis or “just” a form of depression. Little attention has been given to these individuals' experiences. Therefore, we conducted a phenomenological study to explore burnout from a first person perspective. The aim of the study was to obtain a deeper understanding of burnout as phenomenon.

Theoretical perspective and method

We are inspired by Merleau‐Ponty's phenomenological approach and gestalt theory. The phenomenological focus is to attend to the embodied consciousness of the lived experience of being human. An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was chosen to uncover how the interviewees made meaning of their situation. Six individuals who had been on sick leave at 50% to 100% for at least 3 months due to fatigue‐ and pain‐related symptoms were interviewed.

Results

Four narrative phases mirroring burnout as a temporal sequence stood out: achievement, pressure, psychosomatic collapse, and personal meaning and reorientation. We identified several interruptions to contact, which seemed to boost the interviewees' ability to continue striving beyond their limits. The results of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of how complex factors might influence individual vulnerability and lead to a fatigue reaction.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that lack of recognition of the interviewees' illness may have affected the healing process. When understanding burnout as an intersubjective, lived, contextual, and temporal experience, it is important to take the implications of such factors into consideration for both medical theory and clinical practice. On the basis of our findings, we argue that reducing burnout to a form of depression will neither solve the problem of its unknown aetiology nor provide for meaningful individual health care.
Digestive enzyme activity of the Japanese grenadier anchovyCoilia nasusduring spawning migration: influence of the migration distance and the water temperature
Authors: Ma Fengjiao , Yang Yanping , Jiang Min , Yin Denghua , Liu Kai
Published: September 2019

In this study, we investigated the activity levels of two major digestive enzymes (pepsin and lipase) in the commercially important Japanese grenadier anchovyCoilia nasusduring its upstream migration to analyse the digestive physiological responses to starvation and to analyse the influence of the water temperature on enzyme activity. Water temperature had a significant effect on pepsin activity, while long‐term starvation resulted in a significant decrease in pepsin activity. As starvation continued, however, a slight increase in pepsin activity between the Wuhu (440 river km) and Anqing (620 river km) regions may indicate thatC. nasushad refeeding behaviour due to its large expenditure of energy reserves. In contrast, lipase activity was not significantly affected by the water temperature but the effect of fasting increased as much as 13% of lipase activity from the Chongming region (20 river km) to Anqing region, suggesting that the stored lipids of grenadier anchovy were mobilised to meet energy requirements of upstream migration activity and gonad development. Lipid mobilisation activated lipoprotein lipase (LPL; proteins with lipase activity) to hydrolyse triacylglycerides (TAG), which is the first step of lipid assimilation and obtained energy from fatty acids under fasting conditions. Therefore, the increased lipase activity is attributed mainly to the lipase that is involved in endogenous lipid hydrolysis. Grenadier anchovy appears to adapt to long‐term starvation during migration and the increased lipase activity may indicate a crucial effect on lipid metabolism. This study demonstrated that distinct alterations occur in pepsin and lipase activities during the spawning migration of grenadier anchovy due to exogenous nutrition and endogenous metabolism. Furthermore, it provides a basis for further research on the digestive physiology and energy metabolism in this species.
Kids are Different: The United States Supreme Court Reforms Youth Sentencing Practices for Youth Prosecuted in the Criminal Justice System
Authors: Levick Marsha
Published: September 2019

In a series of decisions issued between 2005‐2016, the United States Supreme Court relied on emerging scientific research detailing the developmental differences between children and adults to revamp its juvenile sentencing jurisprudence under the Eighth Amendment. The research established that youth’s developmental immaturity reduces their culpability for their criminal conduct, while also demonstrating their heightened capacity for change and rehabilitation. The Court focused on the most extreme sentences for youth, banning the imposition of the death penalty on youth under the age of eighteen in Roper v. Simmons (2005), and severely limiting the availability of life without parole sentences even for youth convicted of murder, in Graham v Florida (2010) and Miller v Alabama (2012). This article traces the Court’s evolution in reviewing sentences for youth in our justice system, and considers how the Court’s reasoning in these cases may influence further reforms in the justice system’s treatment of youth looking ahead.
Hemorrhoidal disease and chronic venous insufficiency: Concomitance or coincidence; results of the CHORUS study (Chronic venous and HemORrhoidal diseases evalUation and Scientific research)
Authors: Godeberge Philippe , Sheikh Parvez , Zagriadskiĭ Evgeny , Lohsiriwat Varut , Montaño Abel Jalife , Košorok Pavle , De Schepper Heiko
Published: September 2019

Background and Aim

The CHORUS study (Chronic venous and HemORrhoidal diseases evalUation and Scientific research) was conducted to provide data on patients presenting with hemorrhoidal disease (HD) in clinical practice and to explore the frequency with which it coexists with chronic venous disease (CVD) and shared risk factors.

Methods

This international, noninterventional study enrolled adult patients attending a consultation for hemorrhoidal complaints. The questionnaire completed by physicians established the subjects' demographic and lifestyle characteristics and collected information on HD grade and symptoms and signs of CVD.

Results

A total of 5617 patients were analyzed. Symptoms commonly reported were bleeding (71.8%), pain (67.4%), swelling (55.0%), itching (44.1%), and prolapse (36.2%). Multivariate analysis revealed the variables with the strongest association with HD severity were older age, higher CVD CEAP (Clinical manifestations, Etiologic factors, Anatomic distribution of disease, and underlying Pathophysiology) class, constipation, and male gender (all P < 0.0001). Elevated BMI was a risk factor for HD recurrence. Among women, number of births had a significant association with both HD grade and recurrence. The presence of CVD, reported in approximately half the patients (51.2%), was strongly associated with advanced grade of HD (P < 0.0001). Treatments most commonly prescribed were venoactive drugs (94.3%), dietary fiber (71.4%), topical treatment (70.3%), analgesics (26.3%), and surgery (23.5%).

Conclusions

CHORUS provides a snap shot of current profiles, risk factors, and treatments of patients with HD across the globe. The coexistence of HD and CVD in more than half the study population highlights the importance of examining for CVD among patients with a hemorrhoid diagnosis, particularly when shared risk factors are present.
How does testosterone act to regulate a multifaceted adaptive response? Lessons from studies of the avian song system
Authors: Ball Gregory F. , Madison Farrah N. , Balthazart Jacques , Alward Beau A.
Published: September 2019

In male songbirds, song functions to attract a mate or to defend a territory; it is therefore often produced in the context of reproduction. Testosterone of gonadal origin increases during the reproductive phase of the annual cycle and significantly enhances song production, as well as song development, via effects on song crystallisation. The neural control of birdsong production and learning is highly modular. We implanted testosterone or androgen antagonists into specific brain regions or in the periphery of castrated male canaries and, in this way, identified how androgen signalling in specific locations regulates a variety of birdsong features. For example, castrated male canaries treated with testosterone in the preoptic area only and exposed to long days sing at high rates compared to castrated male canaries not treated with testosterone. However, these birds with testosterone in the preoptic area still produce songs with substantially lower song stereotypy and amplitude; these features are controlled by testosterone acting in the song control nucleiHVCand robust nucleus of the arcopallium. Specific aspects of the learned singing behaviour are thus regulated by androgens acting at multiple levels in the brain in a non‐redundant fashion. The action of testosterone in the preoptic area is related to the hormonal regulation of the motivation to sing but not to various aspects of song performance. Multiple aspects of song quality are instead precisely regulated by steroids acting in distinct song control nuclei. Females exert a strong choice for specific features of male song in canaries and this choice is influenced by the endocrine state of the female. The female song system is also involved in song production, as well as song perception, although the specificity of this hormone action has not yet been investigated.