bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universal screening versus risk‐based protocols for antibiotic prophylaxis during childbirth to prevent early‐onset group B streptococcal disease: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hasperhoven GF , Al‐Nasiry S , Bekker V , Villamor E , Kramer BWW
Published: January 2020

Background

Early‐onset group B streptococcal (EOGBS) disease (including sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia) causes significant morbidity and mortality in newborn infants worldwide. Antibiotic prophylaxis can prevent vertical streptococcal transmission, yet no uniform criteria exist to identify eligible women for prophylaxis. Some guidelines recommend universal GBS screening to pregnant women in their third trimester (screening‐based protocol), whereas others employ risk‐based protocols.

Objectives

To compare the effectiveness of screening‐based versus risk‐based protocols in preventing EOGBS disease.

Search strategy

Key words for the database searches included GBS, Streptococcus agalactiae, pregnancy, screening, culture‐based, risk‐based.

Selection criteria

Studies were included if they investigated EOGBS disease incidence in newborn infants and compared screening or risk‐based protocols with each other or with controls.

Data collection and analysis

Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined using Mantel‐Haenszel analyses with random effects.

Main results

Seventeen eligible studies were included. In this meta‐analysis, screening was associated with a reduced risk for EOGBS disease compared either with risk‐based protocols (ten studies, RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.32–0.56) or with no policy (four studies, RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.11–0.84). Meta‐analysis could not demonstrate a significant effect of risk‐based protocols versus no policy (seven studies, RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.61–1.20). In studies reporting on the use of antibiotics, screening was not associated with higher antibiotic administration rates (31 versus 29%).

Conclusions

Screening‐based protocols were associated with lower incidences of EOGBS disease compared with risk‐based protocols, while not clearly overexposing women to antibiotics. This information is of relevance for future policymaking.

Tweetable abstract

Meta‐analysis: general screening is associated with lower rates of early‐onset group B strep. neonatal sepsis compared with risk‐based protocols.
High roadkill rates in the Dong Phayayen‐Khao Yai World Heritage Site: conservation implications of a rising threat to wildlife
Authors: Silva I. , Crane M. , Savini T.
Published: January 2020

Road networks are increasing globally, and as such incur increased pressure on wildlife communities. Large‐scale road expansion and infrastructure development occurring throughout Asia (i.e. Belt and Road Initiative) will affect hundreds of threatened species, leading to an increase in wildlife‐vehicle collisions. However, only a limited number of studies have quantified road mortality within this threatened landscape. To rectify this, we monitored the spatial‐temporal patterns of vertebrate roadkill in the Dong Phayayen‐Khao Yai forest complex, an UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Thailand, considered a refuge for many globally threatened species. We ran 100 standardized road surveys between 2015 and 2017, on a 47.8‐km highway transect currently being expanded, and recorded a total of 1395 casualties from 124 species. After correcting for removal time and detection probability, we estimated an average of 9688 vertebrate mortalities per year. We observed a mortality peak during the dry season for almost all taxonomic groups, due to a combination of high bird and bat mortality events. All taxa showed significant spatial clustering, highlighting high‐risk road sections. We modelled the road and landscape features most likely to lead to higher mortality rates, disentangling small‐scale (250–500 m from road) from large‐scale effects (1000–2500 m). We recorded lower mortality rates and species diversity near forest sites in protected areas, representing either lower crossing events due to habitat quality or an already depleted environment. Spatial analyses provided information on hotspots and landscape factors, which can be used to inform future mitigations at multiple scales throughout the Southeast Asia region. Our study provides a baseline of the direct road impacts on vertebrate species in a tropical biodiversity hotspot, and we suggest that more studies be conducted to fully assess the direct road effects on the many threatened species in this landscape.
Comparison of efficacy and visual outcomes after SMILE and FS‐LASIK for the correction of high myopia with the sum of myopia and astigmatism from −10.00 to −14.00 dioptres
Authors: Qian Yishan , Chen Xun , Naidu Rajeev Krishnan , Zhou Xingtao
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To compare the efficacy and visual outcomes after femtosecond laser small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and femtosecond laser‐assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS‐LASIK) in correcting high myopia.

Methods

This prospective, randomized study included patients who underwent SMILE or FS‐LASIK for the correction of high myopia [the sum of spherical and cylindrical error from −10.00 to −14.00 dioptres (D)]. Preoperative, 1‐month (P1m), 3‐months (P3m) and 6‐months (P6m) postoperative outcomes were analysed and compared between the two procedures.

Results

Ninety‐six right eyes of 96 patients (SMILE: n = 51, FS‐LASIK: n = 45) were included. Both the (Attempted – achieved) sphere and the (attempted – achieved) spherical equivalent (SEQ) were greater in the FS‐LASIK group at all three postoperative time‐points (p < 0.001). The postoperative vector means of astigmatism were smaller in the SMILE group than in the FS‐LASIK group. The differences between the optical zone of tissue removal (ROZ) during surgery and the postoperative functional optical zone (FOZ; ROZ‐FOZ) were smaller in the SMILE group than in the FS‐LASIK group. No significant difference was found between the two procedures in the delta‐root mean square (RMS) of aberrations, except for delta‐spherical aberration (SA) at P3m.

Conclusions

Both SMILE and FS‐LASIK are effective in correcting high myopia. SMILE resulted in less under‐correction, less regression, a smaller decrease in the FOZ and a smaller increase in SA when compared to FS‐LASIK, resulting in better visual outcomes with SMILE.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: risk of adverse pregnancy‐related outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tandon Parul , Govardhanam Vivek , Leung Kristel , Maxwell Cynthia , Huang Vivian
Published: January 2020

Background

The effect of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on pregnancy‐related outcomes remains unknown.

Aim

To determine the risk of adverse maternal, placental and obstetric outcomes in IBD

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase and Cochrane library through May 2019 for studies reporting adverse maternal, placental and obstetric outcomes in patients with IBD. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for these outcomes in patients with IBD compared to healthy controls.

Results

Fifty‐three studies were included (7917 IBD pregnancies and 3253 healthy control pregnancies). Caesarean delivery was more common in patients with IBD compared to healthy controls (OR 1.79, 95% CI, 1.16‐2.77). This remained significant for UC (OR 1.80, 95% CI, 1.21‐2.90) but not CD (OR 1.48, 95% CI, 0.94‐2.34). Similarly, gestational diabetes occurred more commonly in IBD (OR 2.96, 95% CI, 1.47‐5.98). The incidences of placental diseases were 2.0% (95% CI, 0.9%‐3.1%) for pre‐eclampsia, 3.3% (95% CI, 0%‐7.2%) for placental abruption, 0.5% (95% CI, 0.2%‐0.9%) for placenta previa and 0.3% (95% CI, 0%‐0.5%) for chorioamnionitis. Patients with IBD were more likely to experience preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (OR 12.10, 95% CI, 2.15‐67.98), but not early pregnancy loss (OR 1.63, 95% CI 0.49‐5.43). Anti‐tumour necrosis factor therapy was not associated with chorioamnionitis (OR 1.12, 95% CI, 0.16‐7.67), early pregnancy loss (OR 1.49, 95% CI, 0.83‐2.64) or placenta previa (OR 1.58, 95% CI, 0.30‐8.47).

Conclusions

Gestational diabetes and preterm prelabour rupture of membranes occurs more commonly in patients with IBD, although the incidence of placental diseases remains low.
Haemodialysis for lithium poisoning: Translating EXTRIP recommendations into practical guidelines
Authors: Buckley Nicholas A. , Cheng Sonia , Isoardi Katherine , Chiew Angela L. , Siu William , Vecellio Elia , Chan Betty S.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the impact on practice of applying the Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisoning (EXTRIP) Workgroup criteria to lithium toxicity.

Method

We retrospectively examined the medical records of patients from three hospitals who presented with chronic or acute on chronic lithium poisoning with a lithium concentration ≥1.3 mmol/L (2008‐2018). We determined which criteria were met by patients and their subsequent course. We developed and validated a method to predict if lithium concentration would be >1mmol/L at 36 hours.

Results

There were 111 acute on chronic and 250 chronic lithium toxic patients. Nine patients (2.5%) were treated with haemodialysis. Six chronic patients had neurological sequelae. The “estimated lithium concentration at 36 hours > 1 mmol/L” criterion required pharmacokinetic calculations. A simple nomogram was developed using Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and lithium concentration. For chronic toxicity, the nomogram would have correctly predicted lithium concentration >1.4 mmol/L at 36 hours in all except two patients. If EXTRIP criteria were followed, dialysis would have been instituted for 211 patients (58%). However, only 51 patients with chronic toxicity fulfilled both a concentration and a clinical criterion. Late neurological sequelae were observed in five out of six patients who fulfilled a concentration and a clinical criterion on admission, with the sixth meeting these criteria shortly after admission.

Conclusions

The EXTRIP criteria are too broad, but minor modifications allow haemodialysis to be targeted to those most at risk of sequelae. Most acute on chronic poisonings do not need haemodialysis, but it might shorten hospital stay in those with very high concentrations. The nomogram accurately predicts the fall in lithium concentration for chronic poisoning.
Long‐term trends in health status and determinants of health among the off‐reserve Indigenous population in Canada, 1991–2012
Authors: Wrathall Darius , Wilson Kathi , Rosenberg Mark W. , Snyder Marcie , Barberstock Shyra
Published: January 2020

The Indigenous population in Canada totals approximately 1.6 million individuals, representing about 5% of the total population. The off‐reserve Indigenous population represents the fastest growing segment of the Indigenous population, with over 50% living in urban settings. Despite the size of the off‐reserve population, research on the health of Indigenous peoples tends to remain focused on reserve‐based populations. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of health and social determinants of health among off‐reserve Indigenous peoples in Canada. Using data from the 1991 and 2012 Aboriginal Peoples Surveys this paper examines changes in health status and the social determinants of health over a 20‐year time span. Results show a decline in health care use and self‐reported health status in the period between 1991 and 2012. The results may be related to urbanization, aging, and increased prevalence of some chronic conditions. The findings may also be tied to barriers to achieving adequate off‐reserve health care—jurisdictional disputes, disjointed program coverage, systemic racism, and a lack of equity‐oriented health services. There remains a pressing need for Indigenous and non‐Indigenous governments, researchers, and policymakers to build new relationships that bridge these gaps in health and access to timely care.
Discovery of chemical probes that suppress Wnt/β‐catenin signaling through high‐throughput screening
Authors: Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Tsumoto Kouhei , Furukawa Yoichi
Published: January 2020

Aberrant activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway has been observed in a wide range of human tumors. Deregulation of the pathway is closely linked to various aspects of human carcinogenesis such as cell viability, regulation of cell cycle, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and maintenance of stemness. In addition, recent studies have disclosed the involvement of Wnt signaling in immune evasion of tumor cells. The accumulation of β‐catenin in the nucleus is a common feature of cancer cells carrying defects in the pathway, which leads to the continuous activation of T‐cell factor (TCF)/LEF transcription factors. Consequently, a genetic program is switched on, leading to the uncontrolled growth, prolonged survival, and acquisition of mesenchymal phenotype. As β‐catenin/TCF serves as a signaling hub for the pathway, β‐catenin/TCF‐dependent transcriptional activity is a relevant readout of the pathway. To date, a wide variety of synthetic TCF/LEF reporters has been developed, and high‐throughput screening (HTS) using these reporters has made significant contributions to the discovery of Wnt inhibitors. Indeed, HTS led to the identification of chemical probes targeting porcupine, a membrane bound O‐acyltransferase, and CREB‐binding protein, a transcriptional coactivator. This review focuses on various screening strategies for the discovery of Wnt inhibitors and their mode of action to help the creation of new concepts for assay/screening methods.
Policing Gentrification: Stops and Low–Level Arrests during Demographic Change and Real Estate Reinvestment
Authors: Beck Brenden
Published: January 2020

Does low–level policing increase during gentrification? If so, are police responding to increased crime, increased demand by new residents, or are they attempting to “clean up” neighborhoods marked for economic redevelopment? To address these questions, I construct a longitudinal dataset of New York City neighborhoods from 2009 to 2015. I compile data on neighborhoods’ demographics, street stops, low–level arrests, crimes, 311 calls to the police, and—using a novel measure—property values. Maps, spatiotemporal modeling, and fixed effects regressions compare changes in stops and low–level arrests to changes in several measures of gentrification. I find, on average, calls to the police increased after a neighborhood's middle–class population grew. Calls did not translate into more stops or low–level arrests, however. Net of crime and spatial autocorrelation, police made more order–maintenance and proactive arrests following real estate market growth, suggesting development–directed policing. Property value growth in wealthy and already gentrified neighborhoods was not associated with an increase in arrests, underscoring policing's role in early–stage urban “renewal.” The article includes an analysis of three sources of property value data.
Impacts of Multiscale Racial Concentration on Neighborhood Foreclosure Risk in Immigrant Gateway Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Lee C. Aujean , Greenlee Andrew J.
Published: January 2020

Scholars define emerging gateway metropolitan areas in the United States as regions in which immigrant communities settled after the 1990s. Historically, immigrant and minority neighborhoods are characterized by exclusion from conventional sources of financial capital––factors which compound risks associated with residential instability and foreclosure. Yet, these new gateways may offer protection from foreclosure due to the relative affordability of housing and concentration of racial and ethnic and class advantages. We examine whether foreclosure risk is mediated through spatial processes, race, nativity, and class. We find that race and nativity play a major role in mediating risk across immigrant gateways. Neighborhoods with higher levels of Asian concentration presented lower risk, regardless of nativity and income. In contrast, Latino foreclosure risk varied by nativity, income, and gateway. Emerging gateways are also associated with higher foreclosure risk. Our findings inform resurgent ethnicity theory and how middle–class immigrant neighborhoods offer improved socioeconomic outcomes without relying on White areas as a standard for immigrant integration.
Limitations, lack of standardization, and recommended best practices in studies of renewable energy effects on birds and bats
Authors: Conkling Tara J. , Loss Scott R. , Diffendorfer Jay E. , Duerr Adam E. , Katzner Todd E.
Published: January 2020

Increasing global energy demand is fostering the development of renewable energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. However, renewable energy facilities may adversely affect wildlife. Facility siting guidelines recommend or require project developers complete pre‐ and postconstruction wildlife surveys to predict risk and estimate effects of proposed projects. Despite this, there are no published studies that have quantified the types of surveys used or how survey types are standardized within and across facilities. We evaluated 628 peer‐reviewed publications, unpublished reports, and citations, and we analyzed data from 525 of these sources (203 facilities: 193 wind and 10 solar) in the United States and Canada to determine the frequency of pre‐ and postconstruction surveys and whether that frequency changed over time; frequency of studies explicitly designed to allow before‐after or impact‐control analyses; and what types of survey data were collected during pre‐ and postconstruction periods and how those data types were standardized across periods and among facilities. Within our data set, postconstruction monitoring for wildlife fatalities and habitat use was a standard practice (n= 446 reports), but preconstruction estimation of baseline wildlife habitat use and mortality was less frequently reported (n= 84). Only 22% (n= 45) of the 203 facilities provided data from both pre‐ and postconstruction, and 29% (n= 59) had experimental study designs. Of 108 facilities at which habitat‐use surveys were conducted, only 3% estimated of detection probability. Thus, the available data generally preclude comparison of biological data across construction periods and among facilities. Use of experimental study designs and following similar field protocols would improve the knowledge of how renewable energy affects wildlife.

Article Impact StatementMany surveys at wind and solar facilities provide limited information on wildlife use and fatality rates.
Long‐term functional results after excisional haemorrhoidectomy
Authors: Lehmann J.‐P. , Johansson H. Ö. , Graf W.
Published: January 2020

Aim

The aim of this work was to perform a long‐term evaluation of a randomized trial focusing on functional aspects after excisional haemorrhoidectomy with a minimum follow‐up of 9 years.

Method

A questionnaire‐based study including patients operated on for haemorrhoids in Sweden between 1999 and 2003. A total of 225 patients were randomized to Milligan’s or Ferguson’s operation. Twenty‐six patients had died and 151 (76%) participated after a median follow‐up of 10.7 years (range 9.2–12.6 years).

Results

Seventy‐seven patients were in the Milligan group and 74 in the Ferguson group. Forty‐eight (32%) reported recurrence. Anal bleeding was reported in 80% at baseline but in 28% at long‐term follow‐up (P < 0.0001). At baseline, 49% had spontaneous anal pain and 25% pain at defaecation. At follow‐up, these figures were 17% and 11%. At follow‐up, 19% described a sense of anal stenosis. At baseline, soiling was reported in 51% but in 20% at long‐term follow‐up (P < 0.001). Nineteen per cent used pads preoperatively and 6% at follow‐up (P < 0.0001). Straining at defaecation was reported by 35% at baseline. At follow‐up, this figure was 25% (P = 0.055).

Conclusion

Symptoms associated with haemorrhoids were reduced at long‐term follow‐up. The most common problems were perceived recurrence and a sense of anal stenosis.
Non‐technical skills curriculum incorporating simulation‐based training improves performance in colonoscopy among novice endoscopists: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Walsh Catharine M. , Scaffidi Michael A. , Khan Rishad , Arora Anuj , Gimpaya Nikko , Lin Peter , Satchwell Joshua , Al‐Mazroui Ahmed , Zarghom Omid , Sharma Suraj , Kamani Alya , Genis Shai , Kalaichandran Ruben , Grover Samir C.
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Non‐technical skills (NTS), involving cognitive, social and interpersonal skills that complement technical skills, are important for the completion of safe and efficient procedures. We investigated the impact of a simulation‐based curriculum with dedicated NTS training on novice endoscopists’ performance of clinical colonoscopies.

Methods

A single‐blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted at a single center. Novice endoscopists were randomized to a control curriculum or a NTS curriculum. The control curriculum involved a didactic session, virtual reality (VR) simulator colonoscopy training, and integrated scenario practice using a VR simulator, a standardized patient, and endoscopy nurse. Feedback and training were provided by experienced endoscopists. The NTS curriculum group received similar training that included a small‐group session on NTS, feedback targeting NTS, and access to a self‐reflective NTS checklist. The primary outcome was performance during two clinical colonoscopies, assessed using the Joint Advisory Group Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (JAG DOPS) tool.

Results

Thirty‐nine participants completed the study. The NTS group (n = 21) had superior clinical performance during their first (P < 0.001) and second clinical colonoscopies (P < .0.001), compared to the control group (n = 18). The NTS group performed significantly better on the VR simulator (P < 0.05) and in the integrated scenario (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that dedicated NTS training led to improved performance of clinical colonoscopies among novices.
Individual differences in executive function partially explain the socioeconomic gradient in middle‐school academic achievement
Authors: Albert W. Dustin , Hanson Jamie L. , Skinner Ann T. , Dodge Kenneth A. , Steinberg Laurence , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Bornstein Marc H. , Lansford Jennifer E.
Published: January 2020

Children from families with low socioeconomic status (SES) earn lower grades, perform worse on achievement tests, and attain less education on average than their peers from higher‐SES families. We evaluated neurocognitive mediators of SES disparities in achievement in a diverse sample of youth whose data were linked to administrative records of performance on school‐administered tests of 7th grade reading and math proficiency (N = 203). We used structural equation modeling to evaluate whether associations between SES (measured at ages 8–9) and achievement (measured at age 13) are mediated by verbal ability and executive function (measured at age 10), a suite of top‐down mental processes that facilitate control of thinking and behavior. Children from relatively higher‐SES families performed better than their lower‐SES peers on all neurocognitive and achievement measures, and SES disparities in both reading and math achievement were partially mediated by variation in executive function, but not verbal ability. SES disparities in executive function explained approximately 37% of the SES gap in math achievement and 17% of the SES gap in reading achievement. Exploratory modeling suggests that SES‐related variation in working memory may play a particularly prominent role in mediation. We discuss potential implications of these findings for research, intervention programming, and classroom practice.
Predictors of remission from the ultra‐high risk state for psychosis
Authors: Glenthøj Louise B. , Kristensen Tina D. , Wenneberg Christina , Hjorthøj Carsten , Nordentoft Merete
Published: January 2020

Aim

A significant proportion of individuals at Ultra‐High Risk (UHR) for psychosis do not transition to manifest psychosis. Many non‐transitioning UHR individuals do, however, display poor long‐term outcomes such as persistence of attenuated psychotic symptoms. Evidence is scarce on which variables may predict a better clinical and functional prognosis such as remission from the UHR state.

Methods

A total of 146 UHR individuals were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial (RCT), with this being analyses secondary to the RCT. Participants were assessed on multiple domains of symptoms, functioning, neuro‐ and social cognition. Regression analyses elucidated on the predictive power of these measures to remission from the UHR status (ie, not meeting UHR criteria) at 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Of the 91 UHR individuals attending 12‐month follow‐up, 33 (36%) exhibited remission from the UHR state. Regression analyses revealed baseline functioning to be a significant predictor of risk remission, and this was maintained when controlling for the effect of antipsychotic medication, gender and estimated IQ. The individuals with remission from the UHR state showed lower attenuated psychotic‐ and depressive symptoms along with better functioning at 12‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate functioning to be a contributor to the symptomatic recovery of UHR individuals, but a large amount of the variance on risk remission is, however, explained by other factors. Additionally, our findings suggest that UHR individuals with better functioning at ascertainment may present with a better clinical and functional prognosis, which may inform on the need for monitoring and intervention in this subgroup.
A subset of taste receptor cells express biocytin‐permeable channels activated by reducing extracellular Ca2+ concentration
Authors: Iwamoto Masafumi , Takashima Madoka , Ohtubo Yoshitaka
Published: January 2020

Taste receptor cells (type II cells) transmit taste information to taste nerve fibres via ATP‐permeable channels, including calcium homeostasis modulator (CALHM), connexin and/or pannexin1 channels, via the paracrine release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a predominant transmitter. In the present study, we demonstrate that extracellular Ca2+‐dependent biocytin‐permeable channels are present in a subset of type II cells in mouse fungiform taste buds using biocytin uptake, immunohistochemistry and in situ whole‐cell recordings. Type II cells were labelled with biocytin in an extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]out)‐sensitive manner. We found that the ratio of biocytin‐labelled type II cells to type II cells per taste bud was approximately 20% in 2 mM Ca2+ saline, and this ratio increased to approximately 50% in nominally Ca2+‐free saline. The addition of 300 µM GdCl3, which inhibits various channels including CALHM1 channels, significantly inhibited biocytin labelling in nominally Ca2+‐free saline, whereas the addition of 20 µM ruthenium red did not. Moreover, Cs+‐insensitive currents increased in nominally Ca2+‐free saline in approximately 40% of type II cells. These increased currents appeared at a potential of above −35 mV, reversed at approximately +10 mV and increased with depolarization. These results suggest that biocytin labels type II cells via ion channels activated by [Ca2+]out reduction, probably “CALHM‐like” channels, on the basolateral membrane and that taste receptor cells can be categorized into two groups based on differences in the expression levels of [Ca2+]out‐dependent biocytin‐permeable channels. These data indicate electrophysiological and pharmacologically relevant properties of biocytin‐permeable channels and suggest their contributions to taste signal transduction.
Examining the neural and cognitive processes that underlie reading through naming speed tasks
Authors: Al Dahhan Noor Z. , Kirby John R. , Chen Ying , Brien Donald C. , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: January 2020

We combined fMRI with eye tracking and speech recording to examine the neural and cognitive mechanisms that underlie reading. To simplify the study of the complex processes involved during reading, we used naming speed (NS) tasks (also known as rapid automatized naming or RAN) as a focus for this study, in which average reading right‐handed adults named sets of stimuli (letters or objects) as quickly and accurately as possible. Due to the possibility of spoken output during fMRI studies creating motion artifacts, we employed both an overt session and a covert session. When comparing the two sessions, there were no significant differences in behavioral performance, sensorimotor activation (except for regions involved in the motor aspects of speech production) or activation in regions within the left‐hemisphere‐dominant neural reading network. This established that differences found between the tasks within the reading network were not attributed to speech production motion artifacts or sensorimotor processes. Both behavioral and neuroimaging measures showed that letter naming was a more automatic and efficient task than object naming. Furthermore, specific manipulations to the NS tasks to make the stimuli more visually and/or phonologically similar differentially activated the reading network in the left hemisphere associated with phonological, orthographic and orthographic‐to‐phonological processing, but not articulatory/motor processing related to speech production. These findings further our understanding of the underlying neural processes that support reading by examining how activation within the reading network differs with both task performance and task characteristics.
The effect of climate change on the resilience of ecosystems with adaptive spatial pattern formation
Authors: Bastiaansen Robbin , Doelman Arjen , Eppinga Maarten B. , Rietkerk Max
Published: January 2020

In a rapidly changing world, quantifying ecosystem resilience is an important challenge. Historically, resilience has been defined via models that do not take spatial effects into account. These systems can only adapt via uniform adjustments. In reality, however, the response is not necessarily uniform, and can lead to the formation of (self‐organised) spatial patterns – typically localised vegetation patches. Classical measures of resilience cannot capture the emerging dynamics in spatially self‐organised systems, including transitions between patterned states that have limited impact on ecosystem structure and productivity. We present a framework of interlinked phase portraits that appropriately quantifies the resilience of patterned states, which depends on the number of patches, the distances between them and environmental conditions. We show how classical resilience concepts fail to distinguish between small and large pattern transitions, and find that the variance in interpatch distances provides a suitable indicator for the type of imminent transition. Subsequently, we describe the dependency of ecosystem degradation based on the rate of climatic change: slow change leads to sporadic, large transitions, whereas fast change causes a rapid sequence of smaller transitions. Finally, we discuss how pre‐emptive removal of patches can minimise productivity losses during pattern transitions, constituting a viable conservation strategy.
Benchmarking Community‐Based Couple Therapy: Considering Measurement Reactivity
Authors: Quirk Kelley , Owen Jesse , Reese Robert J. , Babins‐Wagner Robbie , Berzins Sandy
Published: January 2020

Couple therapy has been shown to be effective in randomized clinical trials; however, results from naturalistic couple therapy have been less consistent. This study utilized a benchmarking approach to compare the effectiveness of couple therapy in a community‐based setting with findings from efficacy treatments, such as treatment within randomized clinical trials. The current study is the largest couple therapy sample published to date (N = 3,347 couples). Clients in couple therapy were asked to provide initial and weekly ratings of symptomology on the Outcome Questionnaire (OQ‐45.2). We found that treatment effect sizes found at community clinics were smaller than efficacy studies (i.e., the benchmark). However, when taking into account measurement reactivity, the effect sizes were comparable. This is the first benchmarking study for community‐based couple therapy, allowing for meaningful comparisons and understanding of outcomes in real‐world couple therapy. Implications for the field are offered in terms of evaluating community‐based psychotherapy studies with benchmarking for couple therapy. Results of this study provide clinicians and researchers a way to meaningfully compare couple therapy outcomes, accounting for differences in community‐based practices and randomized clinical trials. This benchmark also underscores the impact of measurement sensitivity, an issue commonly overlooked in psychotherapy research and practice.
Evidence Regarding Medication Overuse Headache in Children and Adolescents: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: VanderPluym Juliana , Gautreaux Jessica , Burch Rebecca , Whitaker Evans , Roberts Jason , Turner Dana P. , Gelfand Amy A.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This proposed systematic review will identify the existing evidence on medication‐overuse headache in children and adolescents.

Background

A number of medications have been shown to be effective for acute treatment of migraine in children and adolescents. However, patients may find they need to use their acute medications more frequently when migraine frequency is high. This has led to concern about their potential to develop medication‐overuse headache.

Methods

We will search PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases from their inception to present time. We will also search conference proceedings of the last 4 scientific meetings of relevant societies and scan the reference lists of studies identified through the search. Study designs will include case series, cross‐sectional, cohort, case‐control, and interventional studies. Participants will include children and adolescents under 18 years of age with primary headache disorders. We aim to determine whether frequency of acute medication use is associated with headache frequency in children and adolescents. Outcomes of interest include: (1) headache frequency; (2) change in headache frequency, with time and in relationship to use of acute medications; and (3) headache‐related disability. We will also review data addressing treatment/management of medication overuse or medication‐overuse headache in children and adolescents. Relevant comparators will be withdrawal vs reduction of acute medication, initiation of preventive therapy vs no initiation with or without withdrawal of acute medication, and initiation of preventive therapy early vs late. Outcomes of interest include (1) days of acute medication use; (2) headache frequency; (3) change in headache frequency; and (4) headache‐related disability. After screening for inclusion, 2 team members will independently review and extract relevant data, and any discrepancies will be resolved through discussion and arbitration. We will assess risk of bias using appropriate tools (Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials (RCT) and Newcastle‐Ottawa Score for observational studies). Data will be summarized descriptively in text and tables.

Results

This systematic review will provide an overview of the available evidence on medication‐overuse headache in children and adolescents.

Conclusions

Findings from this review will aid clinicians by clarifying for them the current state of the evidence base, and will inform design of future research on this topic.
The protective potential of Fc‐mediated antibody functions against influenza virus and other viral pathogens
Authors: Vanderven Hillary A , Kent Stephen J
Published: January 2020

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in utilizing antibody fragment crystallizable (Fc) functions to prevent and control viral infections. The protective and therapeutic potential of Fc‐mediated antibody functions have been assessed for some clinically important human viruses, including HIV, hemorrhagic fever viruses and influenza virus. There is mounting evidence that influenza‐specific antibodies with Fc‐mediated functions, such as antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity and antibody‐dependent phagocytosis, can aid in the clearance of influenza virus infection. Recent influenza challenge studies and intravenous immunoglobulin G therapy studies in humans suggest a protective role for Fc effector functions in vivo. Broadly reactive influenza antibodies with Fc‐mediated functions are prevalent in the human population and could inform the development of a universally protective influenza vaccine or therapy. In this review, we explore the utility of antibodies with Fc‐mediated effector functions against viral infections with a focus on influenza virus.
Introducing the EC Hotspot Approach: A Framing Analysis of EU’s Most Authoritative Crisis Policy Response
Authors: Bousiou Alexandra , Papada Evie
Published: January 2020

Out of the policy initiatives that emerged in the aftermath of the “Refugee Crisis”, none is more elusive that the hotspot approach. Our aim in this article is to shed light upon what kind of policy output the hotspot approach entails, by conducting a framing analysis of key European Commission (EC) documents. We draw on discursive institutionalist approaches which focus on the policy process. Within the policy process, we focus particularly on identifying policy frames as organizing principles and key ideas, in order to trace the representation of the problem and solutions to it. Our findings show how the hotspot approach, in incarnating both the problem and the solution to migration as primarily a concern for management, represents another string in the long‐standing tensions of the harmonisation of the EU asylum and migration policies.
Structure and lithium‐ion mobility in Li1.5M0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 (M = Ga, Sc, Y) NASICON glass‐ceramics
Authors: d'Anciães Almeida Silva Igor , Nieto‐Muñoz Adriana M. , Rodrigues Ana Candida M. , Eckert Hellmut
Published: January 2020

This work reports structural and lithium‐ion mobility studies in NASICON single‐ or multiple phase Li1+xMxGe2−x(PO4)3 (M = Ga3+, Sc3+, Y3+) glass‐ceramics using solid‐state NMR techniques, X‐ray powder diffraction, and impedance spectroscopy. X‐ray powder diffraction data show the successful incorporation of Ga3+ and Sc3+ into the Ge4+ octahedral sites of the NASICON structure at the levels of x = 0.5 and 0.4, respectively. The glass‐to‐crystal transition was further characterized by multinuclear NMR and electrical conductivity measurements. Among the studied samples, the gallium‐containing glass‐ceramic presented the highest DC conductivity, 1.1 × 10−4 S/cm at room temperature, whereas for the Sc‐containing samples, the maximum room temperature conductivity that could be reached was 4.8 × 10−6 S/cm. No indications of any substitution of Ge4+ by Y3+ could be found.
Fused silica contamination layer removal using magnetic field‐assisted finishing
Authors: Long Julian , Ross Daniel , Tastepe Erik , Lamb Mikayla , Funamoto Yusuke , Shima Daichi , Kamimura Tomosumi , Yamaguchi Hitomi
Published: January 2020

Fused silica optics used in lasing systems requires a high laser‐induced damage resistance. Processes typically used to polish fused silica lenses induce subsurface and surface damage that collect ceria abrasive, creating a layer of contamination. The contamination can be a precursor to laser damage during use. A preliminary study showed the feasibility of magnetic field‐assisted finishing (MAF) for polishing fused silica and suggested possible beneficial effects of the MAF‐polished surface on the laser‐induced damage threshold (LIDT). This paper proposes a method to examine the fundamental polishing characteristics of MAF for fused silica. Using the proposed method, this paper explores the material removal characteristics of the MAF process and improves the understanding of the MAF polishing mechanism. The 45% improvement of LIDT shows the efficacy of MAF for removing the contamination layer of fused silica surfaces with minimal changes in the surface roughness.
Degradation mechanism of Cr2O3‐Al2O3‐ZrO2 refractories in a coal‐water slurry gasifier: Role of stress cracks
Authors: Chen Junfeng , Xiao Junli , Zhang Yu , Wei Yaowu , Li Youqi , Zhang Shaowei , Li Nan
Published: January 2020

Durability and corrosion behavior of refractory lining, a core part of a commercial water‐coal slurry gasifier, largely determine its gas yield rate and carbon conversion rate. In this work, corrosion behavior of high chromite‐containing refractory served for 4200 hours in a water‐coal slurry gasifier was studied, and the role of generated stress cracks on its degradation behavior was elucidated. The results demonstrated that the depth of penetration under the assistance of the cracks was up to 2.60 cm, which was much deeper than that in the case free from stress crack. The sub‐surface, accompanied by cracking, provided a pathway for slag penetration and resulted in more severe corrosion. Furthermore, the isolation layer of (Cr, Fe, Al)2O3 solid solution on the refractory’ surface trapped most of the iron oxides. As a result, a further attack from other main corrosive species was controlled by their diffusion through it.
Class 1C antiarrhythmic drugs in atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease
Authors: Pantlin Peter G. , Bober Robert M. , Bernard Michael L. , Khatib Sammy , Polin Glenn M. , Rogers Paul A. , Morin Daniel P.
Published: January 2020

Background

Class 1C antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) are effective first‐line agents for atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment. However, these agents commonly are avoided in patients with known coronary artery disease (CAD), due to known increased risk in the postmyocardial infarction population. Whether 1C AADs are safe in patients with CAD but without clinical ischemia or infarct is unknown. Reduced coronary flow capacity (CFC) on positron emission tomography (PET) reliably identifies myocardial regions supplied by vessels with CAD causing flow limitation.

Objective

To assess whether treatment with 1C AADs increases mortality in patients without known CAD but with CFC indicating significantly reduced coronary blood flow.

Methods

In this pilot study, we compared patients with AF and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% who were treated with 1C AADs to age‐matched AF patients without 1C AAD treatment. No patient had clinically evident CAD (ie, reversible perfusion defect, known ≥70% epicardial lesion, percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass grafting, or myocardial infarction). All patients had PET‐based quantification of stress myocardial blood flow and CFC. Death was assessed by clinical follow‐up and social security death index search.

Results

A total of 78 patients with 1C AAD exposure were matched to 78 controls. Over a mean follow‐up of 2.0 years, the groups had similar survival (P = .54). Among patients with CFC indicating the presence of occult CAD (ie, reduced CFC involving ≥50% of myocardium), 1C‐treated patients had survival similar to (P = .44) those not treated with 1C agents.

Conclusions

In a limited population of AF patients with preserved left ventricle function and PET‐CFC indicating occult CAD, treatment with 1C AADs appears not to increase mortality. A larger study would be required to confidently assess the safety of these drugs in this context.
Asian management of hypertension: Current status, home blood pressure, and specific concerns in Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Van Minh , Nguyen Lan Viet , Van Huy Tran , Cao Thuc Sinh , Tran Kim Son , To Muoi , Duong Thanh Binh , Hoang Anh Tien
Published: January 2020

Hypertension and atherosclerotic diseases are becoming important public health issues in Vietnam. This is due, in part, to changing dietary patterns and lifestyles accompanying economic growth in the country. The most recent prevalence data suggest that 29% of the population has hypertension, and the rate of other cardiovascular risk factors is also high. Although use of home and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (HBPM and ABPM) is increasing, Vietnamese physicians generally rely on office blood pressure (BP) for diagnosing and managing hypertension. A lack of availability and training are limiting factors. However, out‐of‐office BP monitoring is important to detect white‐coat and masked hypertension, and define the 24‐hour BP profile. This approach is recommended in current Vietnam Society of Hypertension and Vietnamese National Heart Association guidelines. Based on 2016 data, the most commonly used antihypertensive agents in Vietnam are angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, followed by calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and diuretics, with ß‐blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers used less frequently. Combination therapy, usually with an ACE inhibitor plus CCB or diuretic, is quite common (used in 62% of patients). The participation of Vietnam in global hypertension initiatives and organizations has likely contributed to improved treatment and control rates over the last 10 years. Nevertheless, the prevalence of hypertension remains high and additional strategies are needed to reduce this and prevent cardiovascular disease.
Adjunctive effect of locally delivered antimicrobials in periodontitis therapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Herrera David , Matesanz Paula , Martín Conchita , Oud Valerie , Feres Magda , Teughels Wim
Published: January 2020

Aim

To answer the following PICOS question: in adult patients with periodontitis, which is the efficacy of adjunctive locally delivered antimicrobials, in comparison with subgingival debridement alone or plus a placebo, in terms of probing pocket depth (PPD) reduction, in randomized clinical trials with at least 6 months of follow‐up.

Material and methods

A systematic search was conducted: 59 papers, reporting 50 different studies, were included. Data on clinical outcome variables changes were pooled and analysed using weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), and prediction intervals (PI), in case of significant heterogeneity.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed, in 6‐ to 9‐month studies, for PPD (WMD = 0.365, 95% CI [0.262; 0.468], PI [−0.29; 1.01]) and clinical attachment level (CAL) (WMD = 0.263, 95% CI [0.123; 0.403], PI [−0.43; 0.96]). For long‐term studies, significant differences were observed for PPD (WMD = 0.190, 95% CI [0.059; 0.321]), but not for CAL. For adverse events, no differences were observed. Results were affected by study design (split‐mouth versus parallel studies) and assessment (full‐ or partial‐mouth), as well as by the formulation tested.

Conclusions

The use adjunctive locally delivered antimicrobials in periodontitis therapy results in statistically significant benefits in clinical outcomes, without relevant side effects.