bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The discernible and hidden effects of clonality on the genotypic and genetic states of populations: Improving our estimation of clonal rates
Authors: Stoeckel Solenn , Porro Barbara , Arnaud‐Haond Sophie
Published: January 2021

Partial clonality is widespread across the tree of life, but most population genetic models are designed for exclusively clonal or sexual organisms. This gap hampers our understanding of the influence of clonality on evolutionary trajectories and the interpretation of population genetic data. We performed forward simulations of diploid populations at increasing rates of clonality (c), analysed their relationships with genotypic (clonal richness, R, and distribution of clonal sizes, Pareto β) and genetic (FIS and linkage disequilibrium) indices, and tested predictions of c from population genetic data through supervised machine learning. Two complementary behaviours emerged from the probability distributions of genotypic and genetic indices with increasing c. While the impact of c on R and Pareto β was easily described by simple mathematical equations, its effects on genetic indices were noticeable only at the highest levels (c > 0.95). Consequently, genotypic indices allowed reliable estimates of c, while genetic descriptors led to poorer performances when c < 0.95. These results provide clear baseline expectations for genotypic and genetic diversity and dynamics under partial clonality. Worryingly, however, the use of realistic sample sizes to acquire empirical data systematically led to gross underestimates (often of one to two orders of magnitude) of c, suggesting that many interpretations hitherto proposed in the literature, mostly based on genotypic richness, should be reappraised. We propose future avenues to derive realistic confidence intervals for c and show that, although still approximate, a supervised learning method would greatly improve the estimation of c from population genetic data.
Thymic epithelial tumors: Do we know all the prognostic factors?
Authors: Knetki‐Wróblewska Magdalena , Kowalski Dariusz M. , Olszyna‐Serementa Marta , Krzakowski Maciej , Szołkowska Małgorzata
Published: January 2021

Background

Thymic epithelial tumors constitute a morphologically and clinically diverse group of rare neoplasm of the anterior mediastinum.

Methods

Here, we present an analysis of 188 patients diagnosed with primary thymic tumors between 1995 and 2015. The prognostic value of selected clinical and morphological factors was assessed in relation to overall survival and recurrence‐free survival.

Results

The risk of recurrence increased significantly in thymic carcinoma diagnosis (P = 0.0036), co‐occurrence of other diseases, and weight loss (P = 0.0012 and 0.0348, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that the most important independent risk factor for disease recurrence was clinical stage IV (P = 0.0036). A total of 63 patients (33.5%) died. In the univariate analysis, the following factors were considered as independent prognostic factors for overall survival: clinical stage (P < 0.0001), histological type (P < 0.0001), lymph node involvement (P < 0.001), WHO performance status 2 (P < 0.0001), anemia (Hb <9.5 g/dL; P = 0.0002), leucocytosis (>12.5 G/L; P = 0.0011), LDH level (>185 U/L; P < 0.0001), concomitant diseases (P = 0.0012) and weight loss (P < 0.0001).The strongest independent risk factor for death was stage IV disease (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results confirmed a fairly good prognosis for patients with thymic epithelial tumors. Clinical stage was the most important prognostic factor, but, some additional clinical factors may also have prognostic value.
Transcriptome analysis of crown gall in radish (Raphanus sativus L.) inbred lines
Authors: Tkachenko Alexander A. , Gancheva Maria S. , Tvorogova Varvara E. , Danilov Lavrenty G. , Predeus Alexander V. , Dodueva Irina E. , Lutova Ludmila L.
Published: January 2021

Studying aberrations of normal developmental processes like plant tumour initiation provides a great opportunity for understanding of systemic control of plant cells differentiation. Most well‐studied example of plant tumour is the crown gall caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens; much less studied are spontaneous tumours developing in plants with certain genotype, regardless of agrobacterial infection. In the present study, we used RNA‐seq to analyse the changes in gene expression at the early stages of development of A. tumefaciens‐induced tumours in radish seedlings. In our studies we used two closely related radish inbred lines contrasting in their ability to form spontaneous tumours. RNA‐seq and qPCR analysis showed significant changes in the expression levels for numerous genes involved in different metabolic and developmental processes, and Gene Ontology analysis indicated many biological processes probably involved in the crown gall development in radish. For example, a unique result of our research is upregulation of genes related to photomorphogenesis and downregulation of senescence‐associated genes in the young crown gall tumours. Differences in gene expression between the analysed radish lines included upregulation of pathways related to chromatin remodelling and protein targeting to chloroplast in the tumorous line along with downregulation of pathways of chaperone‐mediated complex assembly and anthocyanin biosynthesis.
Effects ofSolanum mauritianumScopoli (bugweed) invasion on soil and vegetation in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Ruwanza Sheunesu
Published: January 2021

This study examined the effects ofSolanum mauritianumScopoli (bugweed) invasion on soil properties and vegetation diversity and cover on three paired invaded and uninvaded sites in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo Province of South Africa. Soils were analysed for pH, total P, C, N and exchangeable cations of Na, K, Ca and Mg. In addition, soil moisture content, penetration resistance levels and soil water repellency were measured over three months. Vegetation diversity and cover were surveyed in plots measuring 10 × 10 m in both invaded and uninvaded sites. Results showed that soil pH, nutrient concentrations of total P, N, C, cations of K, Ca and Mg, soil penetration resistance levels and water repellency were significantly (P < 0.01) higher in the invaded than uninvaded sites. Soil moisture were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in the uninvaded than invaded sites. Vegetation diversity and cover were significantly (P < 0.01) lower in the invaded than uninvaded sites. Results indicate that bugweed invasion alters some soil properties and negatively impact native species diversity and cover. These results provide the first evidence in South Africa that bugweed invasion contributes to soil changes and vegetation displacement, therefore, the need to manage it through clearing.
Cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma mimicking palmoplantar pustular psoriasis: A rare variant
Authors: Hignett Emma , Seminario‐Vidal Lucia , Shulman Kenneth , Sami Naveed
Published: January 2021

The development of pustular cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) on the palms and soles is rare. Without confirmatory biopsy and molecular studies, CTCL can be misdiagnosed as many benign inflammatory skin diseases. We present a case of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) that mimicked palmoplantar pustular psoriasis, a rarely reported manifestation of the disease. We stress the importance of biopsy to confirm diagnoses, especially when preliminary diagnoses do not respond to empiric treatment.
Ay Vieja
Authors: Mallon Andrews Kyrstin
Published: January 2021

Most anthropologists traffic in the collection of stories. We call them “vignettes,” inserting them into our narratives in ways that behoove our theoretic aims. There are some stories, however, that resist such extraction, living in the fields of our ethnographic research. They are public memory, told and retold by various people at different times. Mingolo’s story was one of these narratives in the rural border town where I conducted research. I never passed up an opportunity to listen to him talk story or list off his physical ailments. In this written rendition of an oral tradition, I have tried to remain loyal to the art of Caribbean storytelling, consolidating a kaleidoscopic range of perspectives, using footnotes (like Junot Díaz and Patrick Chamoiseau) to offer alternative dimensions and immersive textures. Untimely deaths have claimed many of those for whom I care deeply. Many of these deaths happened while I was living in the field, and writing was a way I felt I could remain in the presence of these people for just a few moments longer. This narrative is my attempt to piece together the shards in a mosaic of memories about a man who will be forever deeply missed.
Overcoming barriers to implementing precision dosing with 5‐fluorouracil and capecitabine
Authors: Schneider Jennifer J. , Galettis Peter , Martin Jennifer H.
Published: January 2021

Despite advances in targeted cancer therapy, the fluoropyrimidines 5‐fluorouracil (5FU) and capecitabine continue to play an important role in oncology. Historically, dosing of these drugs has been based on body surface area. This approach has been demonstrated to be an imprecise way to determine the optimal dose for a patient. Evidence in the literature has demonstrated that precision dosing approaches, such as DPD enzyme activity testing and, in the case of intravenous 5FU, pharmacokinetic‐guided dosing, can reduce toxicity and yield better patient outcomes. However, despite the evidence, there has not been uniform adoption of these approaches in the clinical setting. When a drug such as 5FU has been used clinically for many decades, it may be difficult to change clinical practice. With the aim of facilitating change of practice, issues and barriers to implementing precision dosing approaches for 5FU and capecitabine are identified and discussed with possible solutions proposed.
Population pharmacokinetic model of blood THC and its metabolites in chronic and occasional cannabis users and relationship with on‐site oral fluid testing
Authors: Alvarez Jean Claude , Hartley Sarah , Etting Isabelle , Ribot Mégane , Derridj‐Ait‐Younes Nawal , Verstuyft Céline , Larabi Islam‐Amine , Simon Nicolas
Published: January 2021

Aims

To develop a population pharmacokinetic (PP) model of delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolites in blood and to determine the relationship between blood THC pharmacokinetics and results of on‐site oral fluid (OF) testing in chronic (CC) and occasional (OC) cannabis users.

Methods

Fifteen CC (1–2 joints/day) and 15 OC (1–2 joints/week) aged 18–34 years were included, genotyped for their CYP2C9 polymorphisms. Twelve measurements of blood THC, 11‐OH‐THC and THC‐COOH were carried out during the 24‐hour period after controlled cross‐over random inhalation of placebo, 10 mg or 30 mg of THC. OF tests (DrugWipe® 5S) were performed up to 6 hours and then stopped after two successive negative results. The blood concentrations and their relationship to OF testing results were analysed using a PP approach with NONMEM® and R.

Results

A three‐compartment model described the pharmacokinetics of THC, with zero‐order absorption, and a two‐compartment model the metabolites. The fraction of THC converted to 11‐OH‐THC was 0.27 and the fraction of 11‐OH‐THC to THC‐COOH was 0.86. Smoking 30 mg of THC decreased the THC bioavailability to 0.68 compared to 10 mg. CC showed a 2.41 greater bioavailability than OC, leading to higher Cmax and AUC for the three compounds for the same dose. The best model describing the probability of a positive OF test included THC blood concentration and the group as covariate: for a similar THC blood concentration, a CC was less likely to be positive than an OC.

Conclusion

OC are more likely to screen positive than CC for a similar blood concentration.
The effect of activated charcoal on drug exposure following intravenous administration: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Skov Kenneth , Graudal Niels A. , Jürgens Gesche
Published: January 2021

Activated charcoal both reduces primary drug absorption and enhances drug elimination. However, the two mechanisms of action overlap and are indistinguishable from each other. In order to estimate the extend of enhanced elimination, we summarized the effect of activated charcoal on intravenously administered drugs, where reduced drug exposure can be attributed to enhanced elimination. We performed a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled studies evaluating the effect of orally administered activated charcoal on the systemic exposure of intravenously administered drugs. We searched the bibliographic databases PubMed, Embase and Cochrane. Meta‐regression analyses of selected physiochemical drug properties on the effect sizes of activated charcoal were performed. All but one of 21 included studies used multiple‐dose activated charcoal (MDAC). MDAC reduced the median half‐life of the intravenously administered study drugs by 45.7% (interquartile range: 15.3%‐51.3%) and area under the concentration time curve by 47.0% (interquartile range: 36.4%‐50.2%). MDAC significantly improved drug elimination across nine different intravenously administered drugs, but we were unable to identify factors allowing extrapolation to other drugs. The results offer a possible and plausible rationale for the previously observed effects of single‐dose activated charcoal beyond the timeframe where ingested drug is present in the gastro‐intestinal tract.
Pain and anxiety during vasectomies while distracting patients with video glasses or virtual reality glasses
Authors: Dings Sam J.M. , van Stralen Karlijn J. , Struben Veerle M.D. , Noordzij Marinus Arjen
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine whether it is possible to reduce the amount of pain and anxiety experienced during a vasectomy by use of two‐dimensional (2D) video glasses or virtual reality (VR) glasses during the vasectomy.

Patients and Methods

A non‐randomised controlled trial was performed between October 2017 and March 2018. A total of 176 patients were planned for a vasectomy in an outpatient setting and 141 of these patients were divided sequentially into three groups: Control, 2D video glasses and VR glasses. Follow‐up lasted 7 days. One patient was lost to follow‐up. The main outcomes were pain (visual analogue scale [VAS] score 0–10) and anxiety ((VAS score 0–10), and State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults [STAI‐AD] score 20–80) during the vasectomy. Data were compared using analysis of variance or chi‐square measurements.

Results

No significant differences in pain were found (VAS score of 2 in all groups). The odds ratio (OR) and (95% confidence interval [CI]) in the 2D video glasses group was 1.15 (0.92–1.48) and in the VR group was 0.98 (0.76–1.26). Patients in the VR group experienced significantly more anxiety during the procedure (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.07–1.85). Also, patients without prior hospitalisation reported significantly more pain than patients with one or more hospitalisations (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.11–1.65).

Conclusions

The VR and 2D video glasses did not reduce pain or stress during the vasectomy. In the VR group, the anxiety levels during the procedure were even higher.
Novel quantitative structure–activity relationship model to predict activities of natural products against COVID‐19
Authors: Si Yaru , Xu Xinyue , Hu Yingfeng , Si Hongzong , Zhai Honglin
Published: January 2021

Currently, COVID‐19 is spreading in a large scale while no efficient vaccine has been produced. A high‐effective drug for COVID‐19 is very necessary now. We established a satisfied quantitative structure–activity relationship model by gene expression programming to predict the IC50 value of natural compounds. A total of 27 natural products were optimized by heuristic method in CODESSA program to build a liner model. Based on it, only two descriptors were selected and utilized to build a nonlinear model in gene expression programming. The square of correlation coefficient and s2 of heuristic method were 0.80 and 0.10, respectively. In gene expression programming, the square of correlation coefficient and mean square error for training set were 0.91 and 0.04. The square of correlation coefficient and mean square error for test set are 0.86 and 0.1. This nonlinear model has stronger predictive ability to develop the targeted drugs of COVID‐19.
Blood eosinophils associate with reduced lung function growth in adolescent asthmatics
Authors: Koefoed Hans Jacob L. , Gehring Ulrike , Vonk Judith M. , Koppelman Gerard H.
Published: January 2021

Background and Objective

Some children with asthma have low lung growth, putting them at increased risk for COPD later in life. However, it is currently not clear who will experience this adverse growth pattern. We therefore investigated the predictive role of blood eosinophils as a type 2 inflammation marker in lung growth, focusing on the presence and severity of asthma.

Methods

We investigated blood eosinophils and lung function growth (percentage of predicted values) using linear mixed models in children and adolescents from two longitudinal cohorts. One cohort was hospital‐based and consisted of asthmatic children at their first outpatient clinic visit after referral by the general practitioner (n = 133, mean age 9.8), while the second was a general population‐based birth cohort (PIAMA, asthma n = 52 and non‐asthma n = 433, mean age 8.1). The hospital‐based cohort had not been treated with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) before referral.

Results

Subjects in the hospital‐based asthma cohort had more severe asthma compared with the asthmatic subjects in the population‐based cohort, defined by lower lung function levels and a higher prevalence of bronchial hyper‐responsiveness. In the asthma cohort, higher blood eosinophil numbers were associated with less growth in FEV1 (estimated change in lung function per 1 unit increase in ln blood eosinophils (B): −0.66%/year (95% confidence interval (CI): −1.11 to −0.20, p < .01)) and FVC (B: −0.40%/year (95% CI: −0.75 to −0.05), p = .025)) during follow‐up in adolescence (min 7, max 17 years). These associations were not observed in the general population‐based birth cohort, regardless of asthma status during follow‐up (age 8–16).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Blood eosinophil counts in children with asthma not treated with ICS at referral were predictive of lower growth in FEV1 and FVC during follow‐up in adolescence. Our findings indicate that this association is dependent on the degree of asthma severity. Future studies should address whether anti‐eosinophilic treatments preserve lung function growth in children with asthma.
Thyroid‐stimulating hormone levels and incident depression: Results from the ELSA‐Brasil study
Authors: Varella Ana C. , Benseñor Isabela M. , Janovsky Carolina C.P.S. , Goulart Alessandra C. , Birck Marina G. , Santos Itamar S. , Brunoni Andre R. , Lotufo Paulo A.
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study aimed to prospectively evaluate whether TSH levels at baseline were associated with incident depression after four years of follow‐up in a cohort of middle‐aged adults, the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA‐Brasil).

Methods

TSH and free‐thyroxine (FT4) levels were evaluated at baseline. Depression diagnoses were performed using the Clinical Interview Schedule—Revised (CIS‐R) at baseline and after a 4‐year follow‐up. Poisson regression models (95% Confidence Intervals) were built to evaluate the association between TSH quintiles at baseline and incident depression. All analyses were stratified by sex. Models were presented crude, adjusted for age and sex; and further adjusted for race, education, BMI, smoking, alcohol consumption, use of antidepressants/benzodiazepines, kidney function and comorbidities.

Results

Mean age was 51.5 years, and 51.2% were women. Overall, low TSH levels (1st quintile) were associated with incident depression (adjusted RR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.02–1.81), remaining significant for women (adjusted RR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.15–2.33), but not for men. The same results were found when restricting analysis to euthyroid participants (adjusted RR = 1.46, 95% CI 1.08–1.99), also significant for women only (adjusted RR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.12–2.38).

Conclusions

Our results showed that low TSH levels were positively associated with incident depression, particularly among women. Similar results were found when restricting the analysis to euthyroid participants. In contrast, high TSH levels were inversely associated with incident depression, also among women.
Sacral neuromodulation with the InterStim™ system for faecal incontinence: results from a prospective French multicentre observational study
Authors: Meurette Guillaume , Siproudhis Laurent , Leroi Anne‐Marie , Damon Henri , Urs Josef Keller David , Faucheron Jean‐Luc ,   French Faecal Registry Study Group
Published: January 2021

Aim

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness, patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) and the safety of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) with the InterStimTM system for the treatment of faecal incontinence (FI) and establish whether results published predominantly by expert sites are generalisable.

Method

This is a prospective, multicentre, observational study that invited all French sites treating FI with the InterStim™ system to enrol subjects indicated for an SNM therapy evaluation. Data were collected at three follow‐up visits within 1 and 15 months. Therapeutic effectiveness was evaluated by the reduction in leakages per week and improvements over time in the ability to defer defaecation and QoL (as measured with the Faecal Incontinence Quality of Life score). Safety was assessed through reported adverse events.

Results

A total of 221 subjects with a mean age of 62.1 years were tested (184 women) and 178 received a permanent implant. For all implanted subjects with diary data at baseline and follow‐up, a reduction in leakage of more than 50% was observed in 80%, 76% and 83% at 1–3, 4–8 and 9–15 months, respectively. The mean number of leakage episodes and urgency improved significantly compared with the baseline (p < 0.0001). Subjects showed improvements in QoL and time to defer defaecation and were generally satisfied with their therapy. The main device‐related adverse event was the requirement to undertake reprogramming (in 52% of subjects with actions following an event). The rates of infection (in 6% of subjects) and surgical revision (in 10% of subjects) were in agreement with literature reports.

Conclusion

This study confirms the clinical effectiveness, safety and positive effect of SNM on QoL as well as high patient satisfaction for the treatment of FI in real‐life.
Ileostomy for chronic constipation: a good idea or just asking for more trouble?
Authors: Davis George , Chapple Keith , Brown Steven R.
Published: January 2021

Aim

A defunctioning stoma may be an option for a small group of patients with chronic constipation who have exhausted all forms of conservative management and remain symptomatic. We investigated this group in terms of stoma‐related complications and whether they regretted the intervention.

Methods

Patients presenting to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Pelvic Floor Unit over a 7‐year period with chronic constipation unresponsive to conservative management and who had undergone a loop ileostomy for management were interviewed using the decision regret scale. Details about subsequent stoma‐related surgery were recorded.

Results

Thirty‐seven of 38 female patients identified (median age 49 years, range 24–86) completed the decision regret scale. Median follow‐up was 34 months (range 7–74). About half (49%) had no regret and a further 27% had minimal regret about the decision for a stoma. Fifty‐five per cent of patients had further operations related to the stoma, some undergoing up to five operations.

Conclusion

A small group of patients with intractable constipation may benefit from a loop ileostomy but are likely to need subsequent surgery to the stoma. Despite this most patients who have had a stoma do not regret the decision.
A network examination of risky behaviours in a state‐level and national epidemiological sample of high school students
Authors: Christian Caroline , Keshishian Ani C. , Levinson Cheri A. , Peiper Nicholas C.
Published: January 2021

Aim

Engagement in risky behaviours, including substance use, disordered eating, suicidal behaviour, and peer victimization/violence, during adolescence is becoming increasingly prevalent. These risky behaviours are highly comorbid and associated with long‐term consequences for health, relationships, and socioeconomic status, representing an important public health concern. Past research has primarily investigated risky behaviours in adolescence using latent variable models, which are based on assumptions that may limit insight into the complex reality of these behaviours.

Methods

The current study uses network analysis to examine adolescent substance use, disordered eating, suicide risk, and peer victimization/violence in a national (N = 29 008) and state‐level (Kentucky; N = 3455) epidemiological dataset.

We calculated central and bridge symptoms and compared network structure based on demographic factors (race, sex, grade) and sample (state vs. nation).

Results

The most central symptoms were suicidal ideation and attempts, stimulant drug use, and prescription drug misuse. The most central bridge symptoms were depression, methamphetamine use, peer violence, and suicide attempts. There were no differences in network structure between samples or across demographic factors in the Kentucky sample. There were differences in network structure across sex and race in the national dataset.

Conclusions

These findings suggest stimulant use, suicidal ideation, depression, and peer violence may contribute to the high rates and co‐occurrence of risky behaviours in adolescence. Based on network theory, these symptoms may represent important targets for intervention. Due to network differences, special considerations may be necessary to adapt such interventions to meet the needs of students from different backgrounds.
Assessing dentist and dental student knowledge of and attitudes towards shared decision‐making in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sin Melissa , Butt Sara , Barber Sophy K.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Shared decision‐making (SDM) is a partnership between healthcare professionals and patients when choosing care.

Aim

To measure knowledge of, and attitudes to, SDM amongst undergraduate dental students and dentists in the UK.

Design and setting

Cross‐sectional online questionnaire for 4th and 5th year dental students and dentists in the UK.

Materials and methods

The questionnaire included attitudinal questions, knowledge of SDM relative to the evidence base and preferred approach to decision‐making. The questionnaire identified perceived learning needs and preferred method for SDM teaching for dentists and dental students. Respondents were invited to participate via social media, mailing lists and CPD courses.

Results

Respondents included 266 undergraduates and 130 dentists. SDM was defined by the people involved, components of the discussion, approach to decision‐making and expected outcome. Attitudes to SDM were generally positive although concerns were expressed about patients wanting professionals to make the decision, straying from the professionals’ preferred option and compatibility with clinical guidelines. Respondents reported a preference for decision‐making to involve patients, but this tended to be an informative rather than deliberative approach. Respondents were least sure of the evidence about the impact of SDM on adherence, choices and health outcomes, and the best approach to risk communication. Respondents from both groups reported an interest in learning more about SDM and its integration into clinical practice.

Conclusion

Knowledge of, and attitude to, SDM in UK dentists and dental undergraduates is generally positive; however, a demand for further SDM training was identified.
The periodontal senior case clinical challenge: Students’ opinions of a formative virtual assessment during the COVID‐19 emergency
Authors: Garcia M. Nathalia , Whitener Sara J. , Ghassemi Amirezza , Bitter Robert , Miley Douglas , Naylor Jeffrey , Drukteinis Saulius , Hildebolt Charles F.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Due to COVID‐19, innovative, virtual educational methods are being developed to provide students with learning experiences comparable to established clinical practices. Our objective was to produce the Periodontal Senior Case Clinical Challenge (PSCCC) that would provide fourth‐year students an alternative for senior case presentations and would be a formative assessment for which student opinions would be provided and analysed. The PSCCC would utilise an online, case‐based, written, clinical assessment and follow‐up, structured discussion to challenge students to demonstrate ability to apply didactic periodontal knowledge to patient‐based experiences. We hypothesised the PSCCC would provide effective learning and a formative assessment.

Material and Methods

Relevant didactic resources were distributed to 48 students for independent review. The PSCCC was delivered in two sections, (1) a case‐based assessment via a virtual classroom with written student responses, and (2) oral discussions conducted via virtual meetings that were moderated and assessed by ten periodontists, with the collaboration of nine residents. A voluntary six‐statement survey was used to evaluate the students’ opinions of the PSCCC. The scores for 75% (36/48) of students who participated were evaluated for statistical and clinical importance.

Results

The value of our PSCCC was supported by 91.7% (33/36) of the analyses (p < .0008).

Discussion

The PSCCC was a successful alternative pathway to assess students’ clinical and didactic integrated knowledge in periodontics. It provided a unified vision of treatment of the selected case, building on all aspects of the students’ periodontal education whilst allowing interaction in a simultaneous, three‐tiered educational approach, involving dental students, periodontal residents and faculty.

Conclusion

In support of our hypothesis, for each of the 6 statements, ≥94.44% (34/36) of the scores given by the students were considered exceptionally strong clinical support for our pedagogical strategy that combines educational resources and can be successfully implemented in other programmes.
Psychometry and empathy levels and its dimensions in postgraduate students of dental specialties
Authors: Díaz‐Narváez Víctor , Oyarzún‐Muñoz Marcela , Reyes‐Reyes Alejandro , Calzadilla‐Núñez Aracelis , Martínez Pilar Torres , González‐Valenzuela Catalina , Cornejo‐Fernández Nicole
Published: January 2021

Background

Empathy is an attribute that has an important role in the dentist‐patient therapeutic relationship, clinical care and adherence to treatment, amongst other benefits. The aim of this research was to determine empathy in dentists in the process of specialisation.

Materials and Methods

Through an observational and cross‐sectional study, all postgraduate students of Dentistry Faculty of Universidad Andrés Bello (Chile) were analysed (N = 195). The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy Scale was applied.

Results

The results show an adequate reliability of the empathy measure (α = 0.819, ω = 0.928). A three‐factor structure is evidenced by confirmatory factor analysis (χ2/df = 1.445, GFI = 0.952, RMSEA = 0.047) and adequate factor invariance between men and women. Women showed greater empathy on the global scale and in the perspective adoption dimension, with no gender differences found in the dimension Compassionate care and putting oneself in the other's shoes (POOS). The median empathy reaches 120 points. Below, are placed, the specialty of oral rehabilitation (Med = 114.5), surgery (Med = 117) and periodontics (Med. = 117.5). With superior scores, temporomandibular disorder (Med. = 121), endodontics (Med. = 121), Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics Med. = 122), Implantology (Med. = 125) and Pediatric dentistry (Med. = 127.5) are located.

Conclusion

Women were more empathetic than men. In general, empathy levels are relatively high, but the common feature in which all students examined in different specialties have low levels in dimension POOS.
Clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS) with dysplasia is enriched for MDS‐type molecular findings compared to CCUS without dysplasia
Authors: Jajosky Audrey N. , Sadri Navid , Meyerson Howard J. , Oduro Kwadwo A. , Kelkar Ashwin , Fitzgerald Brynn , Tomlinson Benjamin , Moore Erika M. , Beck Rose C.
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Although morphologic dysplasia is not typically considered a feature of CCUS, we have consistently observed low‐level bone marrow (BM) dysplasia among CCUS patients. We sought to determine whether sub‐diagnostic BM dysplasia in CCUS patients is associated with other clinico‐pathologic findings of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Methods

We identified 49 CCUS patients, 25 with sub‐diagnostic dysplasia (CCUS‐D), and 24 having no dysplasia (CCUS‐ND). We compared the clinical, histologic, and laboratory findings of CCUS‐D and CCUS‐ND patients to 49 MDS patients, including blood cell counts, BM morphology, flow cytometry, cytogenetics, and results of next‐generation sequencing.

Results

No statistically significant differences were observed between CCUS‐D and CCUS‐ND patients in the degree of cytopenias, BM cellularity, myeloid‐to‐erythroid ratio, or the presence of flow cytometric abnormalities. However, compared to CCUS‐ND, CCUS‐D patients exhibited increased mutations in myeloid malignancy‐associated genes, including non‐TET2/DNMT3A/ASXL1 variants, spliceosome (SF3B1, SRSF2, ZRSR2, or U2AF1) variants, and IDH2/RUNX1/CBL variants. CCUS‐D patients were also enriched for higher variant allele frequencies and co‐mutation of TET2/DNMT3A/ASXL1 with other genes.

Conclusions

CCUS‐D patients exhibit a molecular (but not clinical) profile more similar to MDS patients than CCUS‐ND, suggesting CCUS‐D may represent a more immediate precursor to MDS and may warrant closer clinical follow‐up.
How and when Identification with a Boundary‐Spanning Part of One's Organization Influences Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Bergami Massimo , Morandin Gabriele , Bagozzi Richard P.
Published: January 2021

Membership of boundary‐spanners is controversial, as employees operate largely at the borders of the organization in close relations with customers. Nevertheless, we know little about its influence on customer satisfaction. We investigate how and when identification with the branch influences customer satisfaction. The how question is answered by showing that degree of control of one's performance mediates the impact of branch manager identification on customer satisfaction. The when question is answered by proposing two moderating variables. Locus of control regulates the extent to which identification influences performance control. Dedicated meetings between branch managers and their colleagues regulate the degree to which performance control influences customer satisfaction. Hypotheses were tested in a longitudinal design on a sample of 1,461 managers from a firm specializing in banking and financial services in Europe. Results largely confirm our hypotheses, providing a novel look on determinants of customer satisfaction from the perspective of boundary‐spanning managers.
A tale of two proteins: PACT and PKR and their roles in inflammation
Authors: Chukwurah Evelyn , Farabaugh Kenneth T. , Guan Bo‐Jhih , Ramakrishnan Parameswaran , Hatzoglou Maria
Published: January 2021

Inflammation is a pathological hallmark associated with bacterial and viral infections, autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders, obesity and diabetes, as well as environmental stresses including physical and chemical trauma. Among numerous proteins regulating proinflammatory signaling, very few such as Protein kinase R (PKR), have been shown to play an all‐pervading role in inflammation induced by varied stimuli. PKR was initially characterized as an interferon‐inducible gene activated by viral double‐stranded RNA with a role in protein translation inhibition. However, it has become increasingly clear that PKR is involved in multiple pathways that promote inflammation in response to stress activation, both dependent on and independent of its cellular protein activator of PKR (PACT). In this review, we discuss the signaling pathways that contribute to the initiation of inflammation, including Toll‐like receptor, interferon, and RIG‐I‐like receptor signaling, as well as inflammasome activation. We go on to discuss the specific roles that PKR and PACT play in such proinflammatory signaling, as well as in metabolic syndrome‐ and environmental stress‐induced inflammation.
Barriers and Facilitators to integrate Oral Health care for Older Adults in General (Basic) Care in East Netherlands. Part 2 Functional Integration
Authors: Niesten D. , Gerritsen A.E. , Leve V.
Published: January 2021

Objective

to synthesise a framework of barriers and facilitators in the functional integration of oral health care (OHC) into general health care for frail older adults at macro (system), meso (organisation and interprofessional integration) and micro (clinical practice) levels.

Background

Identification of these barriers and facilitators is expected to promote better and more appropriate care.

Methods

For this qualitative study, comprising 41 participants, representatives of 10 different groups of (professional) care providers, and OHC receivers (home‐dwelling and nursing‐home patients) were interviewed. Transcripts of the in‐depth, topic‐guided interviews were thematically analysed. In a subsequent workshop with 52 stakeholders, results and interpretations were discussed and refined.

Results

Two themes were identified: (1) compartmentalised care systems and (2) poor interprofessional and communication infrastructure. Barriers related to (1) included lack of integrative policies and compartmentalised healthcare education (macro level); poor embedding of OHC in care procedures, instruments and guidelines (meso level); and poor interprofessional skills (micro level). Barriers related to (2) included poor financial incentives for collaborative practices (macro level) and badly connected ICT systems (meso level). Identified facilitators included integration of an OHC professional into care teams, and interdisciplinary consultations (meso level); and integration of OHC in individual care plans (micro level).

Conclusion

In The Netherlands, OHC for older people is at best poorly integrated into general care practices. Barriers and facilitators are interconnected across macro‐, meso‐ and micro levels and between normative and functional domains and are mainly related to compartmentalisation at all levels and to poor interprofessional and communication infrastructure.
Management of portal hypertension based on portal hemodynamics
Authors: Yoshida Hiroshi , Shimizu Tetsuya , Yoshioka Masato , Taniai Nobuhiko
Published: January 2021

Portal hypertension is most commonly caused by chronic liver disease. As liver damage progresses, portal pressure gradually elevates and hemodynamics of the portal system gradually change. In normal liver, venous returns from visceral organs join the portal trunk and flow into the liver (hepatopetal blood flow). As portal pressure increases due to liver damage, congestion of some veins of the visceral organ occurs (blood flow to and from). Finally, the direction of some veins (the left gastric vein in particular) of the visceral organ change (hepatofugal blood flow) and develop as collateral veins (portosystemic shunt) to reduce portal pressure. Therefore, esophagogastric varices serve as drainage veins for the portal venous system to reduce the portal pressure. In chronic liver disease, as intrahepatic vascular resistance is increased (backward flow theory) and collateral veins develop, adequate portal hypertension is required to maintain portal flow into the liver through an increase of blood flow into the portal venous system (forward flow theory). Splanchnic and systemic arterial vasodilatations increase the blood flow into the portal venous system (hyperdynamic state) and lead to portal hypertension and collateral formation. Hyperdynamic state, especially around the spleen, is detected in patients with portal hypertension. The spleen is a regulatory organ that maintains portal flow into the liver. In this review, surgical treatment, interventional radiology, endoscopic treatment, and pharmacotherapy for portal hypertension (esophagogastric varices in particular) are described based on the portal hemodynamics using schema.
Correlation of methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) protein expression with MTAP and CDKN2A copy number in malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Chapel David B , Dubuc Adrian M , Hornick Jason L , Sholl Lynette M
Published: January 2021

Aims

Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) immunohistochemical expression is a specific marker of CDKN2A deletion in malignant mesothelioma. However, the relationship of MTAP expression with MTAP copy number remains unexplored.

Methods and results

Forty malignant pleural mesotheliomas were characterised by targeted next‐generation sequencing (29), single‐nucleotide polymorphism microarray (seven), or both (four). MTAP and CDKN2A copy numbers were correlated with MTAP expression. Twenty‐seven (68%) tumours showed CDKN2A deletion (14 heterozygous; 13 homozygous), of which 20 (74%) showed MTAP codeletion (15 heterozygous; five homozygous). No tumours showed MTAP deletion without CDKN2A codeletion. Loss of MTAP expression was seen in 16 (40%) tumours, and was 75% sensitive and 95% specific for MTAP deletion, and 59% sensitive and 100% specific for CDKN2A deletion. Nine of 40 (23%) tumours showed heterogeneous MTAP staining, and the percentage of tumour cells with MTAP loss correlated with molecular detection of MTAP deletion.

Conclusions

MTAP is frequently codeleted with CDKN2A in pleural mesothelioma. However, homozygous deletion of both genes occurs in a minority of tumours (5/40; 13%); CDKN2A deletion often co‐occurs with heterozygous MTAP deletion or neutral MTAP copy number; and MTAP expression correlates inconsistently with heterozygous MTAP deletion. Correspondingly, MTAP immunohistochemistry is a highly specific but only moderately sensitive assay for CDKN2A deletion.
Two‐step preparation of fly ash‐based composites for microwave absorption
Authors: Zhu Baoshun , Tian Yuming , Liang Liping , Wang Yake , Mao Lutao , Gao Fei , Zhang Kewei , Li Guomin
Published: January 2021

To develop a novel utilization avenue for fly ash (FA), the Co‐loaded FA (CoFA) was constructed utilizing FA as raw material to acquire the enhanced microwave absorption (MA) performance. In this study, the CoFA composites were fabricated by a two‐step method, including the construction of FA‐based ceramic matrix and a subsequent loading of magnetic components. The results of XRD, SEM, and elemental mapping images revealed that Co particles generated from the carbothermal reduction were well dispersed over the interior and surface of matrix. Compared with pure FA, the as‐prepared CoFA composites demonstrated the impressive MA performances, which were attributed to the good impedance matching, conduction loss, and interfacial polarization effect between the matrix and Co. When the annealing temperature kept at 700°C, the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of as‐prepared CoFA700 reached up to −40.5 dB and the broad absorption band was measured to be 4.7 GHz with a thickness of 2.0 mm, which was superior to pure FA. Our strategy might provide a new direction to the fabrication of high‐efficient MA materials derived from FA.
Thermal shock and thermal fatigue resistance of Al2O3/(W, Ti)C/TiN/Mo/Ni multidimensional graded ceramics
Authors: Ni Xiuying , Zhao Jun , Gong Feng , Li Gang
Published: January 2021

Al2O3/(W, Ti)C/TiN/Mo/Ni multidimensional graded ceramics and homogeneous reference ceramic were prepared by two step hot press sintering. The thermal shock and thermal fatigue resistance of the multidimensional graded ceramics were tested using the water quenching method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscope were used to investigate microscopic failure mechanism of ceramics. The results showed that the retained flexural strength of two‐dimensional and one‐dimensional graded ceramics was almost same, but higher than that of the homogeneous ceramic. The crack growth (∆c) of homogeneous ceramic increased rapidly, while that of two‐dimensional graded ceramics is the lowest. Hence, thermal fatigue resistance of the two‐dimensional graded ceramics was highest. The residual compressive stress in the first layer induced by the optimal graded structure played an important role. In addition, the increasing toughness on the crack propagation path by adding different amounts of metals was also a contributing factor.
Electro‐optical performances of nanostructured SrTiOx films: The effect of plasma power, Ar/O2 ratio and annealing
Authors: Goldenberg Eda , Bayrak Turkan , Mohammadmoradi Omid
Published: January 2021

The present work evaluates the effects of plasma power and oxygen mixing ratios (OMRs) on structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties of strontium titanate SrTiOx (STO) thin films. STO thin films were grown by magnetron sputtering, and later thermal annealing at 700°C for 1 h was applied to improve film properties. X‐ray diffraction analysis indicated that as‐deposited films have amorphous microstructure independent of deposition conditions. The films deposited at higher OMR values and later annealed also showed amorphous structure while the films deposited at lower OMR value and annealed have nanocrystallinity. In addition, all as‐deposited films were highly transparent (~80%–85%) in the visible spectrum and exhibited well‐defined main absorption edge, while the annealing improved transparency (90%) within the same spectrum. The calculated direct and indirect optical band gaps for films were in the range of 3.60‐4.30 eV as a function of deposition conditions. The refractive index of the films increased with OMRs and the postdeposition annealing. The frequency dependent capacitance measurements at 100 kHz were performed to obtain film dielectric constant values. High dielectric constant values reaching up to 100 were obtained. All STO samples exhibited more than 2.5 μC/cm2 charge storage capacity and low dielectric loss (less than 0.07 at 100 kHz). The leakage current density was relatively low (3 × 10−8Acm−2 at +0.8 V) indicating that STO films are promising for future dynamic random access memory applications.
Radiosensitization induced by zinc‐doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in breast cancer cells
Authors: Yedekci Yagiz , Gedik Emre , Evis Zafer , Dogan Lale , Özyigit Gökhan , Gürkaynak Murat
Published: January 2021

Zinc‐doped hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles were synthesized by microwave assisted method and used with ionizing radiation for inhibition of proliferation of breast cancer cells. Zinc‐doped HAs were produced in four different compositions in order to determine the best doping rate in terms of physical and biological properties. Nanoparticle characterizations were performed with X‐ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Viability of MDA‐MB‐231(isolated at M D Anderson from a pleural effusion of a patient with invasive ductal carcinoma) cells treated with nano‐HA particles and radiation were assessed by MTT assay. Caspase‐7 and Poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase protein expressions in samples were examined by the Western blot. X‐ray diffraction patterns of our samples were found to be in good correlation with the reference HA peaks. Notably, increasing zinc amount resulted in elevated percentage of β‐tricalcium phosphate, phases. All formulations including pure HA particles were non‐cytotoxic in MDA MB 231 cells. On the other hand, low rate Zn‐doped HA particles showed significant anti‐proliferation effect during irradiation. The combination of irradiation with Zn‐doped HA particles also induced apoptosis, demonstrated as cleavage of caspase‐7 and PARP proteins. In conclusion, low rate Zn‐doped HA enhanced the radiation effect on breast cancer cells.