bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing an objective biomarker for corneal cystinosis using a threshold‐based Spectral domain optical coherence tomography imaging algorithm
Authors: Keidel Leonie , Elhardt Carolin , Hohenfellner Katharina , Priglinger Siegfried , Schworm Benedikt , Wertheimer Christian , Priglinger Claudia , Luft Nikolaus
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to establish a semi‐automated threshold‐based image segmentation algorithm to detect and objectively quantify corneal cystine crystal deposition in ocular cystinosis with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT).

Methods

This prospective, observational, comparative study included 88 eyes of 45 patients from the German Cystinosis Registry Study as well as 68 eyes of 35 healthy control subjects. All eyes were imaged with AS‐OCT (Cirrus HD‐OCT 5000, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany). As an initial step, B‐scan images were subjectively analysed for typical changes in morphology in comparison to healthy controls. Based on the experience gained, an objective semi‐automated B‐scan image segmentation algorithm was developed using a grey scale value‐based threshold method to automatically quantify corneal crystals.

Results

On AS‐OCT B‐scans, corneal crystals appeared as hyperreflective deposits within the corneal stroma. The crystals were distributed either in all stromal layers (43 eyes, 49%) or confined to the anterior (23 eyes, 26%) or posterior stroma (22 eyes, 25%), respectively. The novel automatic B‐scan image segmentation algorithm was most efficient in delineating corneal crystals at higher grey scale thresholds (e.g. 226 of a maximum of 255). Significant differences in suprathreshold grey scale pixels were observable between cystinosis patients and healthy controls (p < 0.001). In addition, the algorithm was able to detect an age‐dependent depth distribution profile of crystal deposition.

Conclusion

Objective quantification of corneal cystine crystal deposition is feasible with AS‐OCT and can serve as a novel biomarker for ocular disease control and topical treatment monitoring.
Status of mental health and its associated factors among the general populace of India during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Venugopal Vaishali C. , Mohan Arunkumar , Chennabasappa Latha K.
Published: August 2020

The COVID‐19 is an international public health emergency and threatens psychological resilience. Here we assess the general health status of the public in India during the COVID‐19 outbreak. A population‐based cross‐sectional study conducted using a General Health Questionnaire and the relationship between mental health and sociodemographic factors were analyzed. The mean score for the general health of citizens was 24.18. About 40.63% of the elderly and 40.18% of the female population was under severe physiological distress. The prevalence of psychological stress among the general population was higher than expected. Hence, there is a need to intensify awareness about the pandemic and should provide mental health management programs.
Chlamydia psittaci: a suspected cause of reproductive loss in three Victorian horses
Authors: Akter R , Stent AW , Sansom FM , Gilkerson JR , Burden C , Devlin JM , Legione AR , El‐Hage CM
Published: August 2020

Chlamydia psittaci was detected by PCR in the lung and equine foetal membranes of two aborted equine foetuses and one weak foal from two different studs in Victoria, Australia. The abortions occurred in September 2019 in two mares sharing a paddock northeast of Melbourne. The weak foal was born in October 2019 in a similar geographical region and died soon after birth despite receiving veterinary care. The detection of C. psittaci DNA in the lung and equine foetal membranes of the aborted or weak foals and the absence of any other factors that are commonly associated with abortion or neonatal death suggest that this pathogen may be the cause of the reproductive loss. The detection of C. psittaci in these cases is consistent with the recent detection of C. psittaci in association with equine abortion in New South Wales. These cases in Victoria show that C. psittaci, and the zoonotic risk it poses, should be considered in association with equine reproductive loss in other areas of Australia.
Enhanced Klotho availability protects against cardiac dysfunction induced by uraemic cardiomyopathy by regulating Ca2+ handling
Authors: Navarro‐García José Alberto , Rueda Angélica , Romero‐García Tatiana , Aceves‐Ripoll Jennifer , Rodríguez‐Sánchez Elena , González‐Lafuente Laura , Zaragoza Carlos , Fernández‐Velasco María , Kuro‐o Makoto , Ruilope Luis M. , Ruiz‐Hurtado Gema
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose

Klotho is a membrane‐bound or soluble protein, originally identified as an age‐suppressing factor and regulator of mineral metabolism. Klotho deficiency is associated with the development of renal disease, but its role in cardiac function in the context of uraemic cardiomyopathy is unknown.

Experimental Approach

We explored the effects of Klotho on cardiac Ca2+ cycling. We analysed Ca2+ handling in adult cardiomyocytes from Klotho‐deficient (kl/kl) mice and from a murine model of 5/6 nephrectomy (Nfx). We also studied the effect of exogenous Klotho supplementation, by chronic recombinant Klotho treatment, or endogenous Klotho overexpression, using transgenic mice overexpressing Klotho (Tg‐Kl), on uraemic cardiomyopathy. Hearts from Nfx mice were used to study Ca2+ sensitivity of ryanodine receptors and their phosphorylation state.

Key Results

Cardiomyocytes from kl/kl mice showed decreased amplitude of intracellular Ca2+ transients and cellular shortening together with an increase in pro‐arrhythmic Ca2+ events compared with cells from wild‐type mice. Cardiomyocytes from Nfx mice exhibited the same impairment in Ca2+ cycling as kl/kl mice. Changes in Nfx cardiomyocytes were explained by higher sensitivity of ryanodine receptors to Ca2+ and their increased phosphorylation at the calmodulin kinase type II and protein kinase A sites. Ca2+ mishandling in Nfx‐treated mice was fully prevented by chronic recombinant Klotho administration or transgenic Klotho overexpression.

Conclusions and Implications

Klotho emerges as an attractive therapeutic tool to improve cardiac Ca2+ mishandling observed in uraemic cardiomyopathy. Strategies that improve Klotho availability are good candidates to protect the heart from functional cardiac alterations in renal disease.
Something is not quite right: Effects of two land uses on anuran diversity in subtropical grasslands
Authors: Moreira Leonardo Felipe Bairos , de Castilhos Henrique Zanette , Castroviejo‐Fisher Santiago
Published: August 2020

Although habitat modification is considered one of the main causes of biodiversity loss, the relative contribution of different rural land uses to biodiversity conservation is far less known. Additionally, the realization of the multidimensionality of biodiversity demands studies integrating variation of functional traits and phylogenetic information as complements to address the effects of land use on the structure of animal communities. Herein, we investigated the effects of land use (i.e., intensive agricultural and extensive livestock rearing) on functional and phylogenetic diversity of anuran communities in farmland ponds from the Uruguayan savanna ecoregion, while considering the effects of local factors (i.e., water depth) on species composition. We surveyed adults and tadpoles in 22 ponds and quantified five traits related to tadpole feeding, habitat use, and predator avoidance. Tadpole identification was corroborated by DNA barcoding based on a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. We observed a decline in phylogenetic mean nearest taxon distance associated with increase of surrounding agricultural land use. While land use intensification did not affect richness (functional or phylogenetic), ponds in livestock ranches hosted about four times more tadpoles than agricultural ponds. Functional evenness decreased with water depth, although such relationship disappeared when considering phylogenetic non‐independence. Our results indicated that specific anuran clades were more sensitive to intensification in land use, reinforcing a recent view of phylogenetic homogenization following habitat conversion. Additionally, our study suggests that extensive cattle grazing over wide native pastures may provide an alternative more compatible with conservation than short‐term crops in subtropical grasslands.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Parents' perceptions of a group‐based parenting programme in families with child protection and other family support services in a real‐life setting
Authors: Karjalainen Piia , Kiviruusu Olli , Santalahti Päivi , Aronen Eeva T.
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to assess parents' satisfaction and perceived usefulness of the Incredible Years® (IY®) parenting programme in the Child Protection Services (CPS) context, where children's behaviour problems are common. Evidence‐based programmes are rarely offered in CPS, and little is known about how they are perceived by parents. We compared parents (N = 62) with (N = 43) and without (N = 19) CPS contact regarding their satisfaction with the IY® parenting programme, with information gathered from weekly and final evaluation forms. The attendance rate of parents to the weekly sessions (max 19) was also calculated. Comparisons between CPS and non‐CPS clients were analysed using multilevel models. Satisfaction scores ranged between 5.8 and 6.2 (max 7) for all studied domains. Mean attendance rate to the group sessions was 11.5 (SD 5.9), and 74% of participants attended at least nine out of 19 sessions. No group differences emerged in satisfaction or attendance between CPS and non‐CPS parents. Parents in CPS committed well to the programme and found it as useful as parents without CPS contact. IY® appears to be acceptable to parents involved in CPS, and their engagement to the programme can be considered as reasonably good.
Patient perspectives on psychological care after bariatric surgery: A qualitative study
Authors: Chan Jade K. Y. , King Marlee , Vartanian Lenny R.
Published: August 2020

Psychological interventions may be effective in improving adherence after bariatric surgery; however, there is limited research on patients' willingness to engage with psychological aftercare. This study aimed to qualitatively explore patient perspectives on psychological services in the bariatric setting. Participants reported believing that psychological care is essential for treatment success and indicated that they wanted support with adjusting to changes in lifestyle, self‐identity, and relationships after surgery. Participants suggested that psychological aftercare should be recommended by their medical team and incorporated into standard management after bariatric surgery. These findings can be used to inform the design of services for bariatric surgery patients.
FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE SERVICES TRADE: DOES EXCHANGE RATE OR INCOME MATTER?
Authors: Cheng Ka Ming
Published: August 2020

This paper aims to investigate the impacts of exchange rate and income changes on financial and insurance services trade by utilizing the quarterly bilateral trade data of the United States and its major trading partners from 2003 to 2017. No long‐run exchange rate effects on imports and exports of insurance services trade are found. The impact of exchange rates on insurance services may be weak since competition among service providers depends on product differentiation than on exchange rates. On the contrary, income demonstrates significant impacts on both financial and insurance services trade in the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan and Australia. (JELC22, F14, G20)
A guide to plasma membrane solute carrier proteins
Authors: Pizzagalli Mattia D. , Bensimon Ariel , Superti‐Furga Giulio
Published: August 2020

This review aims to serve as an introduction to the solute carrier proteins (SLC) superfamily of transporter proteins and their roles in human cells. The SLC superfamily currently includes 458 transport proteins in 65 families that carry a wide variety of substances across cellular membranes. While members of this superfamily are found throughout cellular organelles, this review focuses on transporters expressed at the plasma membrane. At the cell surface, SLC proteins may be viewed as gatekeepers of the cellular milieu, dynamically responding to different metabolic states. With altered metabolism being one of the hallmarks of cancer, we also briefly review the roles that surface SLC proteins play in the development and progression of cancer through their influence on regulating metabolism and environmental conditions.
A novel observation method for determining the crack stress thresholds of rock based on Hooke's law
Authors: Du Ruifeng , Pei Xiangjun , Jia Jun , Zhang Xiaochao , Gao Meiben , Li Tiantao , Zhang Guohua
Published: August 2020

The crack stress thresholds of rocks have remained a focus in rock mechanics and engineering. Herein, a novel observation method uses Hooke's law to evaluate crack stress thresholds based on transition points in the equivalent elastic modulus. Unlike previous studies, this method considers confining pressure as a variable and involves a differential method to handle the variation of discrete data. To test the method, we compare it with the volumetric strain method and another observation method with respect to the crack stress thresholds of sandstone and granite. The results are within the boundary values presented in the literatures. For the sandstone and granite samples, the proposed method performs better than the other two methods. In summary, the results indicate that the proposed method can be practically applied with that a promising performance. In the future, we will further improve the method by considering more types of rocks with various confining pressures.
Preoperative neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, an independent risk factor for postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Yong Rong , Meng Yongsheng
Published: August 2020

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the potential risk factors for postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in elderly patients with gastric cancer (GC) after radical gastrectomy.

Methods

In total, 221 elderly patients with GC who were scheduled to undergo selective radical gastrectomy in our hospital were enrolled in this study. To define early POCD, the neuropsychological assessment was carried out 1 day before surgery and 7 days after surgery. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was carried out to evaluate the predicative and cut‐off values of risk factors, including neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for early POCD. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate risk factors for early POCD.

Results

Of the 221 enrolled elderly patients with GC, 42 were identified as early POCD with an incidence of 19.0% (42 of 221). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that NLR was a significant predictor for POCD with a cut‐off value of 2.50 and an area under the curve of 0.711 (95% confidence interval: 0.624–0.798, P < 0.001). Preoperative NLR (≥2.50) was the only independent risk factor associated with POCD (odds ratio: 2.44, 95% confidence interval: 1.52–3.68, P = 0.013) by the multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

Preoperative NLR level was an independent risk factor for POCD in elderly patients with GC undergoing curative resection. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 927–931.
Examining university leadership and the increase in workplace hostility through a Bourdieusian lens
Authors: Heffernan Troy
Published: August 2020

Research has noted an increase in negative workplace behaviours in the higher education sector between leaders and staff. A component of this change has been attributed to the managerial shift associated with faculty leadership roles. Positions such as dean are now sometimes filled via evidence of management experience when traditionally these roles were awarded to senior academics. This paper argues that the workplace divides between leaders employed due to management expertise (and with less regard to their research accomplishments) and academics has created new fault lines in institutional hierarchies that are impacting on intra‐faculty relationships as each group adjusts to contemporary institutional management strategies. Bourdieu's notions of habitus, capital, and field are used to dissect these fault lines and hierarchical structures to assist in understanding why the leadership shift is causing divides, if the issue is likely to continue creating rifts, and if the divide can be repaired.
Dynamic reverse supply chain network design under uncertainty: mathematical modeling and solution algorithm
Authors: Jeihoonian Mohammad , Kazemi Zanjani Masoumeh , Gendreau Michel
Published: August 2020

Motivated by the recovery of modular‐structured products, this study addresses the flexible design of a reverse supply chain (RSC) over a planning horizon while incorporating the dynamic uncertain behavior of product returns. The stochastic parameter is modeled as a scenario tree and therefore the concerned problem is formulated as a multistage mixed‐integer stochastic program. To alleviate the computational complexity of the proposed model, it is decomposed into smaller scenario cluster submodels associated with a number of subtrees that share a certain number of predecessor nodes in the original scenario tree. The submodels are coordinated into an implementable solution via a Lagrangian‐progressive hedging‐based method that employs a viable Benders decomposition based algorithm for solving each scenario cluster submodel. Based on a realistic scale case, computational results indicate the superiority of the proposed flexible dynamic RSC design model compared to the existing models. Results also demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed solution approach.
Risk of readmissions, mortality, and hospital‐acquired conditions across hospital‐acquired pressure injury (HAPI) stages in a US National Hospital Discharge database
Authors: Wassel Christina L. , Delhougne Gary , Gayle Julie A. , Dreyfus Jill , Larson Barrett
Published: August 2020

Pressure injuries are one of the most common and costly complications occurring in US hospitals. With up to 3 million patients affected each year, hospital‐acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) place a substantial burden on the US healthcare system. In the current study, US hospital discharge records from 9.6 million patients during the period from October 2009 through September 2014 were analysed to determine the incremental cost of hospital‐acquired pressure injuries by stage. Of the 46 108 patients experiencing HAPI, 16.3% had Stage 1, 41.0% had Stage 2, 7.0% had Stage 3, 2.8% had Stage 4, 7.3% had unstageable, 14.6% had unspecified, and 10.9% had missing staging information. In propensity score‐adjusted models, increasing HAPI severity was significantly associated with higher total costs and increased overall length of stay when compared with patients not experiencing a HAPI at the index hospitalisation. The average incremental cost for a HAPI was $21 767. Increasing HAPI severity was significantly associated with greater risk of in‐hospital mortality at the index hospitalisation compared with patients with no HAPI, as well as 1.5 to 2 times greater risk of 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐day readmissions. Additionally, increasing HAPI severity was significantly associated with increasing risk of other hospital‐acquired conditions, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and venous thromboembolism during the index hospitalisation. By preventing pressure injuries, hospitals have the potential to reduce unreimbursed treatment expenditures, reduce length of stay, minimise readmissions, prevent associated complications, and improve overall outcomes for their patients.
Financial constraints and future tax outcome volatility
Authors: Akamah Herita T. , Omer Thomas C. , Shu Sydney Qing
Published: August 2020

We investigate whether variation in the volatility of tax outcomes across firms is associated with the extent of financial constraints. We document a positive association between current‐period financial constraints and the volatility of cash effective tax rates in subsequent periods. We find that this positive association becomes more pronounced as firms avoid more cash taxes. These results suggest that as financial constraints increase, the benefits of cash tax savings more likely outweigh the costs associated with more volatile tax outcomes. Recent research documents a negative association between financial constraints and the level of cash taxes paid. Our evidence suggests that tax strategies adopted by more financially constrained firms to increase cash tax savings come at the price of more volatile future tax rates.
Error detection through mouse movement in an online adaptive learning environment
Authors: de Mooij Susanne M. M. , Raijmakers Maartje E. J. , Dumontheil Iroise , Kirkham Natasha Z. , van der Maas Han L. J.
Published: August 2020

While response time and accuracy indicate overall performance, their value in uncovering cognitive processes, underlying learning, is limited. A promising online measure, designed to track decision‐making, is computer mouse tracking, where mouse attraction towards different locations may reflect the consideration of alternative response options. Using a speedy arithmetic multiple‐choice game in an online adaptive learning environment, we examined whether mouse movements could reflect arithmetic difficulties when error rates are low. Results showed that mouse movements towards alternative responses in correctly answered questions mapped onto the frequency of errors made in this online learning system. This mapping was stronger for the younger children, as well as for easy arithmetic problems. On an individual level, users showed more mouse movement towards their previously made response errors than towards other alternative options. This opens the possibility of adapting feedback and instruction on an individual basis through mouse tracking.
The added benefit of an extra practice session in virtual reality on the development of presentation skills: A randomized control trial
Authors: Boetje Josien , van Ginkel Stan
Published: August 2020

Developing oral presentation skills is an essential objective of higher education. While previous research emphasized the importance of practice for developing oral presentation skills (OPS), it remains unclear what the optimal amount of practice is. This experimental field study examined the added benefit of an extra practice session in virtual reality (VR) on the progression of 35 graduate students in OPS, using a pre‐test post‐test design. In addition, the mediating effect of public speaking anxiety (PSA) was examined and the relation between PSA, preparation practices, perceived utility of VR and OPS was explored. Questionnaires and performance assessments were used in data collection. Results showed that participants gained benefits from practicing a third time before a virtual audience. Both anxious and non‐anxious participants progressed similarly on presentation skills and experienced the VR intervention comparably. However, the optimal number of practice presentations remains unclear and should be further investigated.
Augmented reality in language learning: A state‐of‐the‐art review of 2014–2019
Authors: Parmaxi Antigoni , Demetriou Alan A.
Published: August 2020

This systematic review study synthesizes research findings pertaining to the use of augmented reality (AR) in language learning. Published research from 2014 to 2019 has been explored and specific inclusion and exclusion criteria have been applied resulting in 54 relevant publications. Our findings determined: (a) devices and software employed for mastering AR; languages and contexts in which AR had been applied; theoretical perspectives adopted for guiding the use of AR; the number of participants in AR activities and benefits from using AR as an educational tool in the language classroom; (b) alignment of the affordances of Augmented Reality with the KSAVE (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, Values, Ethics) 21st‐century skills framework; (c) future directions in AR research and practice. The main findings from this review demonstrate the popularity of mobile‐based AR for supporting vocabulary (23.9%), reading (12.7%), speaking (9.9%) writing (8.5%) or generic language skills (9.9%). Our findings also uncovered areas that merit future attention in the application of AR in language learning – for instance learning theories were not often considered in the implementation of AR. The study concludes with suggestions for future research especially in the areas of instructional design and user experience.
α‐Mangostin‐encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles inhibit colorectal cancer growth by inhibiting Notch pathway
Authors: Chandra Boinpelly Varun , Verma Raj K. , Srivastav Sudesh , Srivastava Rakesh K. , Shankar Sharmila
Published: August 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer‐related mortality. Recent studies have stated that Notch signalling is highly activated in cancer stem cells (CSCs) and plays an important role in the development and progression of CRC. Like normal colorectal epithelium, CRCs are organized hierarchically and include populations of CSCs. In order to enhance the biological activity of α‐mangostin, we formulated α‐mangostin‐encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles (Mang‐NPs) and examined the molecular mechanisms by which Mang‐NPs inhibit CRC cell viability, colony formation, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and induce apoptosis. Mang‐NPs inhibited cell viability, colony formation and induced apoptosis. Mang‐NPs also inhibited EMT by up‐regulating E‐cadherin and inhibiting N‐cadherin and transcription factors Snail, Slug and Zeb1. As dysregulated signalling through the Notch receptors promotes oncogenesis, we measured the effects of Mang‐NPs on Notch pathway. Mang‐NPs inhibited Notch signalling by suppressing the expression of Notch receptors (Notch1 and Notch2), their ligands (Jagged 1 and DLL4), γ‐secretase complex protein (Nicastrin) and downstream target (Hes‐1). Notch receptor signalling regulates cell fate determination in stem cell population. Finally, Mang‐NPs inhibited the self‐renewal capacity of CSCs, stem cell markers (CD133, CD44, Musashi and LGR5) and pluripotency maintaining factors (Oct4, Sox‐2, KLF‐4, c‐Myc and Nanog). Overall, our data suggest that Mang‐NPs can inhibit CRC growth, EMT and CSCs’ population by suppressing Notch pathway and its target. Therefore, Mang‐NPs can be used for the treatment and prevention of CRC.
Updated S2K guidelines on the management of pemphigus vulgaris and foliaceus initiated by the european academy of dermatology and venereology (EADV)
Authors: Joly P. , Horvath B. , Patsatsi Α , Uzun S. , Bech R. , Beissert S. , Bergman R. , Bernard P. , Borradori L. , Caproni M. , Caux F. , Cianchini G. , Daneshpazhooh M. , De D , Dmochowski M. , Drenovska K. , Ehrchen J. , Feliciani C. , Goebeler M. , Groves R. , Guenther C. , Hofmann S. , Ioannides D. , Kowalewski C. , Ludwig R. , Lim Y.L. , Marinovic B. , Marzano A.V. , Mascaró J.M. , Mimouni D. , Murrell D.F. , Pincelli C. , Squarcioni C.P. , Sárdy M. , Setterfield J. , Sprecher E. , Vassileva S. , Wozniak K. , Yayli S. , Zambruno G. , Zillikens D. , Hertl M. , Schmidt E.
Published: August 2020

Background

Pemphigus encompasses a group of life‐threatening autoimmune bullous diseases characterized by blisters and erosions of the mucous membranes and skin. Before the era of immunosuppressive treatment, pemphigus was almost always fatal. Due to its rarity, only few randomized controlled therapeutic trials are available. Recently, rituximab has been approved as first‐line treatment for moderate and severe pemphigus vulgaris in Europe and the United States.

Objectives

The Autoimmune blistering diseases Task Force of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) has initiated a throughout update of the guideline for the management of patients with pemphigus.

Results

The guidelines for the management of pemphigus were updated, and the degree of consent among all task force members was included. The final version of the guideline was consented by the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) and several patient organizations.
The production economics of economics production
Authors: Hu Yushan , Li Ben G.
Published: August 2020

How is new economic knowledge produced over time? That depends on how the expertise of authors is managed within economic journals. Using data from 41 major economics journals spanning 21 years (1994–2014), we find that both the intensive margin (article length) and extensive margin (article number) of the discipline have been growing. In particular, the extensive margin has outgrown the intensive margin, such that each article produces absolutely more but relatively less knowledge. This pattern is highly consistent with a model of within‐journal specialization. As predicted by the model, the share of an individual article shrinks less in general interest journals and in more prestigious journals, where expertise is less substitutable across topics.
An understated danger: Antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture and pet fish in Switzerland, a retrospective study from 2000 to 2017
Authors: Delalay Gary , Berezowski John Andrew , Diserens Nicolas , Schmidt‐Posthaus Heike
Published: August 2020

Aquaculture is a rapidly growing field of food production. However, morbidity and mortality are higher in aquaculture species than in domestic animals. Bacterial diseases are a leading cause of farmed fish morbidity and are often treated with antimicrobials. Since most Swiss fish farms release effluents directly into surface water without treatment and since aquaculture fish are consumed by humans, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and multi‐resistance in aquaculture fish are important for environmental and public health. In this study, AMR tests for 14 antimicrobials were performed on 1,448 isolates from 1,134 diagnostic laboratory submissions from farmed and ornamental fish submissions for the period from 2000 to 2017. Amoxicillin, gentamycin and norfloxacin had the lowest proportion of resistant samples. However, AMR was highly variable over time. Resistance proportions were higher in: (a) ornamental fish compared with farmed fish, (b) fish from recirculation systems compared with those from other farming systems and (c) isolates originating from skin compared with those originating from inner organs. Multiple resistances were common. The results of this study provide useful data for Swiss fish veterinarians and some interesting hypotheses about risk factors for AMR in aquaculture and pet fish in Switzerland. However, further research is needed to define risk factors.
Mysterious syndrome causing high mortality in wild brown trout in Eastern Switzerland, pathology and search for a possible cause
Authors: Schmidt‐Posthaus Heike , Koch Michel , Seuberlich Torsten , Birrer Christoph , Hirschi Regula , Kugler Michael
Published: August 2020

Since 2016, annually occurring species‐specific die‐offs of brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) occurred in the Thur River, situated in the Eastern part of Switzerland. These events lead to drastically reduced population densities in the impacted river regions. Clinical signs in brown trout and mortality were restricted to few weeks in August/September. To characterize the syndrome and to find possible causes, from end of March to November 2018, one‐year‐old brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were exposed to water from Thur River, fish were sampled regularly and screened for infectious agents, including viral metagenomics, and pathology was described. Starting approximately four months post‐exposure, brown trout showed severe lymphohistiocytic pancarditis and necrotizing and haemorrhagic hepatitis. These lesions were recorded until the end of the experiment in November. Rainbow trout were not affected at any point in time. No infectious agents could be identified so far as cause of disease, especially no viral aetiology. Even if pathogenesis and pathology point in the direction of an infectious agent, a causative relationship could not be confirmed and aetiology remains unclear.
Modeling and kinetics of microwave assisted leaching based oil extraction from Bhat
Authors: Kate Adinath , Singh Anupama , Shahi Navin , Pandey Jai prakash , Prakash Om
Published: August 2020

A polar green solvent based Microwave assisted oil extraction from low oil content source like bhat seed is one of the novel and sustainable approach. The understanding of exact mechanism of mass transfer and hence oil extraction is vital for its industrial scale application. The kinetics of oil extraction and their modeling is carried out in present investigation. The MAE of oil from different size particles (<1, 2, and 4 mm) of bhat seed sample was carried out through isopropanol as solvent. Fick's law based model and two stage (washing and diffusion) extraction based empirical model was fitted to the experimental data. Fick's law shown the best fit to all three particle sizes with R2 .98, .98, and .97, respectively. The diffusion rate was observed to be decreased from 0.54 to 0.26 min−1 with increase in particle size. Empirical model shown that the washing stage was most predominant over diffusion with extraction rate few hundred times the diffusion.

Practical Application

In recent years, microwave assisted extraction (MAE) attracts the industrial interest because of various advantages. But, the phenomenon of MAE is considerably different than conventional solvent extraction. The understanding of insight in to the process of mass transfer kinetics taking place during extraction is the key requirement for design and scale‐up of the extraction system. Therefore, the present investigation understands the mass transfer and extraction dynamics taking place at molecular level especially in low oil content source, which will help for large‐scale commercial design of MAE systems.
Prediction of the prognosis of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma by TERT promoter mutations in circulating tumor DNA
Authors: Hirai Mami , Kinugasa Hideaki , Nouso Kazuhiro , Yamamoto Shumpei , Terasawa Hiroyuki , Onishi Yuma , Oyama Atsushi , Adachi Takuya , Wada Nozomu , Sakata Masahiro , Yasunaka Tetsuya , Onishi Hideki , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: August 2020

Background andAim

Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations were the most prevalent mutations in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We tried to detect the mutations with plasma circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in patients with advanced HCC and elucidated their clinical utility.

Methods

Circulating tumor DNA in plasma was extracted from 130 patients with advanced HCC who were treated with systemic chemotherapy (n = 86) or transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (n = 44), and TERT promoter mutations were examined with digital droplet polymerase chain reaction. The correlations between these mutations and the clinical outcome of patients were analyzed.

Results

Of the 130 patients examined, 71 patients (54.6%) were positive for TERT promoter mutations in ctDNA, of which 64 patients were −124bp G > A and 10 were −146bp G > A. The presence of TERT promoter mutations was correlated with large intrahepatic tumor size (P = 0.05) and high des‐gamma carboxyprothrombin (P = 0.005). Overall survival of the patients with the mutations was significantly shorter than those without them (P < 0.001), and the patients with high (≥ 1%) fractional abundance of the mutant alleles showed shorter survival than those with low (< 1%) fractional abundance. Multivariate analysis revealed that TERT promoter mutation (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18–3.24; P < 0.01), systemic chemotherapy (HR: 2.38; 95% CI, 1.29–4.57; P < 0.01), and vascular invasion (HR: 2.16; 95% CI, 1.22–3.76; P < 0.01) were significant factors for poor overall survival.

Conclusions

TERT promoter mutations in ctDNA were associated with short survival and could be a valuable biomarker for predicting the prognosis of patients with advanced HCC.
Cacao capitalism in coastal Ecuador: Production processes and accumulation in non‐transitionary agrarian capitalism during the long 19th century
Authors: Fenton Robert P.
Published: August 2020

Histories of agrarian capitalism have often been constrained by the implications of Robert Brenner's work on the subject. This essay, employing archival and secondary research on Ecuador's long 19th century experiences with cacao capitalism, argues that production processes and localized forms of accumulation, rather than class structure and legal relations, should be included in our definition of the concept. By focusing on how fixed capital in cacao trees and the production of the yearly cacao commodity responded to global demand and local material conditions, I propose amplifying the concept of agrarian capitalism, as well as a rethinking of coastal Ecuador's history of capitalist development. I highlight how both absolute and relative forms of surplus value generation coexisted in coastal Ecuador's cacao haciendas, while demonstrating how financial instruments used for extending the cacao frontier undermined the prospects for long‐term growth.
Serum CA19‐9, CA‐125 and CEA as tumor markers for mucinous ovarian tumors
Authors: Lertkhachonsuk Arb‐aroon , Buranawongtrakoon Supree , Lekskul Navamol , Rermluk Naparat , Wee‐Stekly Wei‐Wei , Charakorn Chuenkamon
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Aim

To analyze the use of serum cancer antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9), cancer antigen 125 (CA‐125) and carcinoembryogenic antigen (CEA) in predicting the malignant potential of mucinous ovarian tumor, and to assess the clinical factors associated with these tumors.

Methods

This retrospective study collected the data from 314 patients who were diagnosed with mucinous ovarian tumor. These patients had preoperative serum CA19‐9, CA‐125, CEA available and underwent surgery at Ramathibodi Hospital between January 2010 and December 2016. The diagnostic performance of CA19‐9, CA‐125 and CEA was analyzed using the receiver operator characteristic curve. The associations between clinicopathological factors and serum CA19‐9, CA‐125 and CEA level were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 314 patients were recruited in this study. They consisted of 221 patients with benign mucinous ovarian tumor (70.38%), 65 patients with borderline mucinous ovarian tumor (20.70%) and 28 patients with mucinous ovarian carcinoma (8.92%). Multivariate analysis revealed that the tumor size, elevated serum CA19‐9, CA‐125 and CEA influenced the tumor pathology. The mucinous ovarian tumor with large tumor size, elevated serum CA19‐9, CA‐125 and CEA more than the cut off values showed a positive correlation with the risk ratio of 1.60 (95% CI = 1.13–2.28; P = 0.005), 1.74 (95% CI = 1.22–2.47; P = 0.002), 1.90 (95% CI = 1.34–2.70; P < 0.001), 1.58 (95% CI = 1.10–2.29; P = 0.020), respectively. CA‐125 provided the highest diagnostic performance, with an area under receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.745, to differentiate between borderline, malignant or benign mucinous ovarian tumor.

Conclusion

Preoperative elevation of the serum CA19‐9, CA‐125, CEA and tumor size are useful predictors to differentiate between benign, borderline and malignant mucinous ovarian tumor. The best predictor is CA‐125, followed by CA19‐9 and CEA.
Sex hormone‐binding globulin regulates glucose metabolism in human placental trophoblasts via cAMP/PKA/CREB1
Authors: Chi Xinshu , Feng Chong , Wang Xiaoyan , Jin Zhen
Published: August 2020

Aim

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in human placental trophoblasts and involvement of the cAMP/PKA/CREB1 signaling pathway in these effects.

Methods

An insulin resistance cell model of human trophoblasts was established. An SHBG‐overexpression plasmid was transfected into these cells, and the expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), CREB and p‐CREB was detected and analyzed in normal cells, model cells and all groups of transfected cells by real‐time PCR and western blotting; cAMP, PKA, glucose consumption and pyruvic acid levels were also detected.

Results

Among the four groups, there was no significant difference in the expression of CREB mRNA or GLUT1 mRNA (P > 0.05); however, CREB, p‐CREB, GLUT1 protein, cAMP and PKA showed low expression (P < 0.05) and cell glucose consumption and pyruvate production were decreased (P < 0.05) in the model group, compared to the normal group. SHBG overexpression in insulin‐resistant cells partially increased the levels of p‐CREB, GLUT1, cAMP and PKA (P < 0.05). Intracellular glucose consumption and pyruvate production were nearly restored to the levels observed in cells from the normal group.

Conclusion

Sex hormone‐binding globulin regulates GLUT1 expression via the cAMP/PKA/CREB1 pathway and affects glucose transport in the placenta, which can induce insulin resistance and gestational diabetes.
Missing decidual Doppler signals as a new diagnostic criterion for placenta accreta spectrum: A case described using superb microvascular imaging
Authors: Horinouchi Takashi , Yoshizato Toshiyuki , Kojiro‐Sanada Sakiko , Kozuma Yutaka , Yokomine Masato , Ushijima Kimio
Published: August 2020

We present a case of a 34‐year‐old pregnant woman with a prior cesarean delivery presenting with placenta previa. Placenta previa accreta was diagnosed from missing decidual flow signals using superb microvascular imaging (SMI). At 31 weeks' gestation, B‐mode ultrasonography showed that the placenta was attached to the anterior uterine segment, extending over the internal cervical os. In normally appearing myometrium, SMI demonstrated double layers of flow signals underneath the placental basal plate, corresponding to myometrial and decidual flows. The thin myometrium located on the bladder where sonolucent zones were not visible revealed three different flow patterns in the Doppler signals underneath the basal plate as follows: double layers (both myometrium and decidual tissues present); a single layer (myometrium alone) or no layers (decidual tissues missing). A cesarean hysterectomy was performed at 37 weeks, and histology confirmed the presence of placenta accreta.
Desensitization strategy for hypersensitivity reactions to carboplatin in five patients with gynecological cancer
Authors: Toyohara Yusuke , Sone Kenbun , Nishida Haruka , Taguchi Ayumi , Miyamoto Yuichiro , Tanikawa Michihiro , Mori Mayuyo , Tsuruga Tetsushi , Matsumoto Yoko , Oda Katsutoshi , Osuga Yutaka , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: August 2020

Aim

Carboplatin is a key drug for gynecologic cancers. However, hypersensitivity reactions (HSR) are major adverse effects that might necessitate carboplatin discontinuation. Desensitization is an effective method in patients who developed initial HSR and further required carboplatin treatment. Here, we aimed to evaluate our experience with the use of the carboplatin desensitization protocol in five patients at the University of Tokyo Hospital.

Methods

We established a four‐step, 5‐h desensitization protocol for our hospital. Observational and retrospective analyses were performed. Additionally, we have shared the patients' clinical information with the emergency department to ensure the safety of this protocol.

Results

Five patients with recurrent gynecological cancer were treated using this protocol. Four of the five patients were treated effectively and 28 of 29 desensitization protocols were completed successfully. In one patient, we switched to olaparib successfully after two courses of our protocol. One patient who developed grade 4 HSR during initial carboplatin administration developed grade 2 HSR and we discontinued the protocol.

Conclusion

The carboplatin desensitization protocol is very efficient. The outcome of our protocol was on a par with other protocols. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to indicate that switching to olaparib can be considered a suitable option in patients who develop HSR to carboplatin.
Hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome affects psychological well‐being of adolescents
Authors: Besenek Mert , Gurlek Beril
Published: August 2020

Aim

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinological disorder in reproductive age and criterion have recently been revised for adolescent age group. Research regarding effects of PCOS on psychological well‐being is limited; and majority of the studies are conducted in adult patients. We aimed to examine psychological effects of PCOS in adolescents who are diagnosed using latest criterion.

Methods

Cases were divided into PCOS and control groups according to their clinical, ultrasonographical and biochemical features. Beck depression inventory (BDI), State & Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI‐I/II), Self‐Confidence Scale (SCS), Multidimensional Peer‐Victimization Scale (MPVS) and Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS‐A) were used in psychiatric evaluation.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding psychiatric scale scores. However, several biochemical parameters (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone) and clinical (Ferriman–Gallwey score [FGS]) of hyperandrogenism affected certain indicators of psychological well‐being such as social anxiety, low self‐esteem and peer victimization. In some psychiatric scales, biochemical indicators were found correlated while clinical indicators were not.

Conclusion

Similar psychiatric scale scores between groups may indicate preliminary stages for adolescent PCOS in which endocrinological, physical and social factors have not yet reached their full potential for their effect on emergence of psychological problems; thus making this age group critical for interventions of prevention measures. In addition, while examining the effects of PCOS on psychological well‐being, biochemical parameters of hyperandrogenism might be as effective as physical manifestations (FGS); and high levels of biochemical parameters of hyperandrogenism might also affect psychological state.
Le Corbusier and the Daughter of Light: Color and Architecture of Maison La Roche
Authors: Shannon Gayla Jett , Shannon Michael Sprague
Published: August 2020

Charles–Edouard Jeanneret, also known as the architect Le Corbusier, developed a method of color selection for the built environment based upon his assessment of universal constants of human perception. Le Corbusier's search for the unchangeable mecanisme de l'emotion was paramount in the development of his compositional and artistic theories and the movement Purism. While Le Corbusier's sense of space, structure, and proportion are deeply ingrained in contemporary design thinking, his architectural modes of color integration and rationale remains elusive to most members of the architecture and design community despite recent research in the field. This widespread uncertainty may reflect many designers’ general lack of understanding about architectural color. This investigation explores Le Corbusier's color choices in order to achieve a “constant” human reaction through his development of a standardized method for color use in architecture. His color assignment system was developed in the early phase of his architectural career, from about 1918 through 1931, coincident with his collaborative development of the Purism movement. Le Corbusier's system and use of color is evaluated utilizing Albert Munsell's precise color notation framework. This writing will culminate with analysis of Le Corbusier's first experimental attempt in applying his Purist color theories to architecture as demonstrated in Maison La Roche (1923–1925).