bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological control of leaf‐cutter ants using pathogenic fungi: experimental laboratory and field studies
Authors: Folgarait Patricia J. , Goffré Daniela
Published: June 2021

The alternative use of biological control agents (BCAs) against leaf‐cutter ants (LCAs) is in increasingly high demand due to the negative consequences of traditional pesticides. Regarding LCAs, BCAs include entomopathogens that infect them, and mycopathogens that kill the fungi cultivated by these ants. The simultaneous use of multiple BCAs requires that the agents do not negatively affect each other. To test this hypothesis, we set up laboratory assays to evaluate in vitro interactions among an entomopathogen [Beauveria bassiana (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill.], a mycopathogen [Trichoderma virens (JH Mill., Giddens & AA Foster) Arx], and the LCA‐cultivated symbiotic fungus Leucoagaricus sp. We also tested the BCAs in the field by offering them in three types of bait to Acromyrmex lundii Guérin‐Méneville (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), in order to evaluate: (1) the control efficiency of these BCAs on LCA field colonies, and (2) whether there was delayed rejection of baits placed sequentially. Our in vitro results showed that T. virens was not affected by Leucoagaricus sp. or by B. bassiana, whereas B. bassiana was negatively affected by the mycopathogen and the cultivated fungus, probably due to substrate competition. Leucoagaricus sp. was not affected by B. bassiana but it was negatively affected by T. virens, as predicted, destroying the cell walls of the cultivated fungus. The field study showed 62.5% control of LCA after applying the three types of bait on three occasions throughout 27 weeks, without detecting any delayed rejection effect. Due to the variability registered in colony inactivity, we propose a continued inactivity of 13 weeks as a criterion for A. lundii control. We discuss the importance of continuous long‐term assessments of BCAs on LCA control.
The impact of phase entrainment on auditory detection is highly variable: Revisiting a key finding
Authors: Sun Yue , Michalareas Georgios , Poeppel David
Published: June 2021

Ample evidence shows that the human brain carefully tracks acoustic temporal regularities in the input, perhaps by entraining cortical neural oscillations to the rate of the stimulation. To what extent the entrained oscillatory activity influences processing of upcoming auditory events remains debated. Here, we revisit a critical finding from Hickok et al. (2015) that demonstrated a clear impact of auditory entrainment on subsequent auditory detection. Participants were asked to detect tones embedded in stationary noise, following a noise that was amplitude modulated at 3 Hz. Tonal targets occurred at various phases relative to the preceding noise modulation. The original study (N = 5) showed that the detectability of the tones (presented at near‐threshold intensity) fluctuated cyclically at the same rate as the preceding noise modulation. We conducted an exact replication of the original paradigm (N = 23) and a conceptual replication using a shorter experimental procedure (N = 24). Neither experiment revealed significant entrainment effects at the group level. A restricted analysis on the subset of participants (36%) who did show the entrainment effect revealed no consistent phase alignment between detection facilitation and the preceding rhythmic modulation. Interestingly, both experiments showed group‐wide presence of a non‐cyclic behavioural pattern, wherein participants' detection of the tonal targets was lower at early and late time points of the target period. The two experiments highlight both the sensitivity of the task to elicit oscillatory entrainment and the striking individual variability in performance.
The role of biochar particle size and hydrophobicity in improving soil hydraulic properties
Authors: Edeh Ifeoma Gloria , Mašek Ondřej
Published: June 2021

The physical properties of biochar have been shown to dramatically influence its performance as a soil amendment. This study assessed the role of biochar particle size and hydrophobicity in controlling soil water movement and retention. Softwood pellet biochar in five particle size ranges (>2 mm, 2–0.5 mm, 0.5–0.25 mm, 0.25–0.063 mm and <0.063 mm) was used for the experiment. These particle sizes were tested on two soil types (sandy loam and loamy sand) at four different application rates (1, 2, 4 and 8%) in the laboratory. Soil water suction at wet range and dry range were measured using the Hyprop and WP4‐T, respectively. From this, the moisture content at field capacity (fc), permanent wilting point (pwp) and plant available water (awc), were determined. Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) was measured using the KSAT device and biochar hydrophobicity was determined using the ethanol drop test method. Our results showed that biochar hydrophobicity increased with decreasing biochar particle size, leading to a reduction in its water retention capacity. The highest fc (0.087 cm−3 cm−3) and awc (0.064 cm−3 cm−3) were observed for soils amended with >2 mm biochar. The soil hydraulic conductivity increased with decreasing biochar particle sizes, with the exception of <0.063 mm biochar, which showed a significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in soil hydraulic conductivity compared to the larger particle sizes. The results clearly showed that both biochar intraporosity (pores inside biochar particles) and interporosity (pore spaces between biochar and soil particles) are important factors affecting amended soil hydraulic properties. Biochar interpores affected mainly hydraulic conductivity; both interpores and intrapores controlled soil water retention properties. Our results suggest that for a more effective increase in soil water retention of coarse soils, the use of hydrophilic biochar with high intraporosity is recommended.

Highlights

Biochar increases soil water retention and reduces hydraulic conductivity.

Hydrophobicity of biochar increased with decreasing particle size.

Coarse biochar particles increased soil water retention due to hydrophilic surfaces and increased intraporosity.

Fine biochar particles decreased hydraulic conductivity due to reduced macropores.
Translational potential of the ghrelin receptor agonist macimorelin for seizure suppression in pharmacoresistant epilepsy
Authors: Buckinx An , Pierre Anouk , Van Den Herrewegen Yana , Guenther Eckhard , Gerlach Matthias , Van Laethem Gaetan , Kooijman Ron , De Bundel Dimitri , Smolders Ilse
Published: June 2021

Background

Current drugs for epilepsy affect seizures, but no antiepileptogenic or disease‐modifying drugs are available that prevent or slow down epileptogenesis, which is characterized by neuronal cell loss, inflammation and aberrant network formation. Ghrelin and ghrelin receptor (ghrelin‐R) agonists were previously found to exert anticonvulsant, neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory effects in seizure models and immediately after status epilepticus (SE). Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whether the ghrelin‐R agonist macimorelin is antiepileptogenic in the pharmacoresistant intrahippocampal kainic acid (IHKA) mouse model.

Methods

SE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by unilateral IHKA injection. Starting 24 h after SE, mice were treated intraperitoneally with macimorelin (5 mg/kg) or saline twice daily for 2 weeks, followed by a 2‐week wash‐out. Mice were continuously electroencephalogram‐monitored, and at the end of the experiment neuroprotection and gliosis were assessed.

Results

Macimorelin significantly decreased the number and duration of seizures during the treatment period, but had no antiepileptogenic or disease‐modifying effect in this dose regimen. While macimorelin did not significantly affect food intake or body weight over a 2‐week treatment period, its acute orexigenic effect was preserved in epileptic mice but not in sham mice.

Conclusions

While the full ghrelin‐R agonist macimorelin was not significantly antiepileptogenic nor disease‐modifying, this is the first study to demonstrate its anticonvulsant effects in the IHKA model of drug‐refractory temporal lobe epilepsy. These findings highlight the potential use of macimorelin as a novel treatment option for seizure suppression in pharmacoresistant epilepsy.
Y el luto sigue (and the grief continues): Latinx Immigrant's Experiences of Ambiguous Loss in the Age of Restrictive Immigration Policy
Authors: Sanchez Elizabeth , Philbin Sandy P. , Ayón Cecilia
Published: June 2021

Objective

Informed by Boss's ambiguous loss theory and an ecological perspective, this study examined Latinx immigrant mothers' experiences of loss associated with their immigration status and the restrictive immigration policy climate.

Background

Undocumented participants strive to maintain international familial ties and experience loss in their inability to see or share a space with loved ones in their country of origin due to restrictive immigration policy and enforcement that inhibits their international mobility.

Methods

In‐depth semistructured interviews were completed with 25 Latinx immigrant mothers who were mostly undocumented or members of mixed‐status families.

Results

Findings support a model of transnational loss. Loss is experienced at premigration, upon arrival, and long after settlement. Participants' quotes illustrate their experiences of ambiguous, anticipatory, and complicated loss. In addition, transnational loss was described as a shared experience, one that impacted many undocumented immigrants in the United States and participants' family members. A subtheme, intergenerational loss, emerged in which children vicariously experienced their parents' loss.

Conclusion

Transnational loss is disenfranchised because it is not socially recognized, leaving immigrants to mourn in silence.

Implications

Practitioners serving immigrant communities should integrate grief and loss support through psychoeducation, assessments, and therapy. At a policy level, immigrants need to have the opportunity to adjust their status so that they can reclaim these lost social interactions.
Black Marriages Matter: Wisdom and Advice From Happily Married Black Couples
Authors: Skipper Antonius D. , Marks Loren D. , Moore T. J. , Dollahite David C.
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study used in‐depth interviews with Black and African American couples in happy, long‐term marriages to capture advice that can serve to convey the hurdles and expectations of marriage in the African American community.

Background

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that only 29% of African Americans are married. However, the majority of African Americans still desire marriage themselves. Therefore, the advice and experiences of enduring African American couples could be beneficial to those younger couples hoping to one day marry.

Method

Interviews and a semistructured interview protocol were used to gather data on marital experiences and counsel from 35 happily married African American couples. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods consistent with Marks (2015) Numeric Content Analysis.

Results

Three emergent themes related to forming and strengthening African American marriages are discussed: (a) Communication Keeps Small Issues From Becoming Big Barriers; (b) Share Roles, Share Responsibilities; and (c) Manage Your Money to Manage Your Marriage.

Conclusion

Key aspects of strong African American marriages include the ability to maintain open lines of communication, to adjust spousal roles with emerging stressors, and to agree on the management of income and assets.

Implications

This study informs young African American couples, family life educators, and marriage therapists on the common experiences and perspectives in long‐lasting African American marriages. Using this information, young African Americans and those engaging African Americans can work to build stronger families and communities.
Reform within the Family Courts: Lessons from Baltimore
Authors: Healy Connie
Published: June 2021

Ireland is reforming its family court practices. This article presents research, funded by the Irish Research Council, which examines the Family Division of the Circuit Court, Maryland, USA (Baltimore City/ County). It explores the theoretical framework (therapeutic jurisprudence) underpinning the Family Division of the Circuit Court, the holistic processes and conflict resolution techniques adopted and what lessons may be learned from the success achieved in assisting the Court Service in Ireland. Triangulating the results, it highlights areas for reform and argues that rather than use inadequate resources as a scapegoat for inaction, a more creative, holistic, stakeholder engaged approach with strong judicial leadership will ensure better outcomes.
Cropland‐to‐Miscanthus conversion alters soil bacterial and archaeal communities influencing N‐cycle in Northern China
Authors: Zhao Chunqiao , Li Xiaona , Yue Yuesen , Hou Xincun , Guo Qiang , Song Jinku , Li Cui , Zhang Weiwei , Wang Chao , Hou Yanhui , Fan Ranran , Shi Ruishuang , Fan Xifeng , Wu Juying
Published: June 2021

Miscanthus spp. are increasingly cultivated in cropland worldwide due to their bioenergy potential and multiple ecological services. Effects of long‐term cropland‐to‐Miscanthus conversion without N fertilizer on soil microbiome and N cycling largely remain unknown. We aimed to explore the effects of Miscanthus conversion on soil microbiome and N cycling over a 15‐year period. We analyzed diversity, composition, and abundance of bacterial and archaeal communities using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and abundances of N‐cycling‐related genes using quantitative polymerase chain reaction of 0–10 cm soils collected from bare land, cropland, 10‐year Miscanthus × giganteus, and 15‐year Miscanthus sacchriflorus land in Beijing. Conversion decreased soil sand and micro‐aggregate proportion, nitrate N (NiN), available phosphorus levels, conductivity, temperature, and pH, while increasing proportion of soil clay and macro‐aggregate (MAA), soil organic C (SOC), available N (AN), exchangeable Mg2+ (EMg2+), and available potassium (AK) contents as well as microbial C/N. Consequently, diversity, composition, and abundance of soil bacterial community exhibited larger changes than those values of archaeal community after conversion. Soil AP, EMg2+, AK, and SOC were key factors in shifting microbiome from the cropland to Miscanthus pattern. Moreover, abundances of bacterial and archaeal communities and the N fixer gene nifH increased, whereas that of the bacterial ammonia monooxygenase gene decreased. The copies of other N‐cycling‐related genes in the two Miscanthus lands seemed similar to those values of cropland. The nifH copies negatively correlated with soil NiN and positively correlated with AN, EMg2+, ECa2+, SOC, AK, and MAA. We conclude that changes in soil microbiome pattern induced by the variation of soil properties enhance microbial N fixation potential, maintaining stable N levels and robust N cycling with lower N leakage risk after conversion. These results should inspire farmers and governments to large‐scale use Miscanthus on marginal cropland in Northern China.
The relationship between alcohol intake and falls hospitalization: Results from the EPIC‐Norfolk
Authors: Tan Guo Jeng , Tan Maw Pin , Luben Robert N , Wareham Nicholas J , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Myint Phyo Kyaw
Published: June 2021

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between habitual alcohol consumption and the risk of falls hospitalization.

Methods

The EPIC‐Norfolk is a prospective population‐based cohort study in Norfolk, UK. In total, 25 637 community dwelling adults aged 40–79 years were recruited. Units of alcohol consumed per week were measured using a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire. The main outcome was the first hospital admission following a fall.

Results

Over a median follow‐up period of 11.5 years (299 211 total person years), the cumulative incidence function (95% confidence interval) of hospitalized falls at 121–180 months for non‐users, light (>0 to ≤7 units/week), moderate (>7 to ≤28 units/week) and heavy (>28 units/week) were 11.08 (9.94–12.35), 7.53 (7.02–8.08), 5.91 (5.29–6.59) and 8.20 (6.35–10.56), respectively. Moderate alcohol consumption was independently associated with a reduced risk of falls hospitalization after adjustment for most major confounders (hazard ratio = 0.88; 95% confidence interval 0.79–0.99). The relationship between light alcohol consumption and falls hospitalization was attenuated by gender differences. Alcohol intake higher than the recommended threshold of 28 units/week was associated with an increased risk of falls hospitalization (hazard ratio 1.40 [1.14–1.73]).

Conclusions

Moderate alcohol consumption appears to be associated with a reduced risk of falls hospitalization, and intake above the recommended limit is associated with an increased risk. This provides incentive to limit alcohol consumption within the recommended range and has important implications for public health policies for aging populations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 657–663.
YAP1–TFE3 gene fusion variant in clear cell stromal tumour of lung: report of two cases in support of a distinct entity
Authors: Dermawan Josephine K. , Azzato Elizabeth M. , McKenney Jesse K. , Liegl‐Atzwanger Bernadette , Rubin Brian P.
Published: June 2021

Aims

Clear cell (haemangioblastoma‐like) stromal tumour of the lung is a newly described, rare pulmonary neoplasm. Recurrent YAP1–TFE3 gene fusions have recently been reported in three cases. We describe two additional cases and confirm the characteristic YAP1–TFE3 gene fusion.

Methods and results

Two mesenchymal tumours of lung were identified from our soft tissue pathology consultation services and RNA sequencing was performed. Both cases were in male patients, aged 35 and 77 years. Both presented as solitary lung nodules measuring 3.9 and 7.5 cm in greatest dimension. Histopathologically, the tumours were composed of epithelioid to plump spindle cells arranged in packets and solid sheets. The cells showed fusiform to ovoid nuclei with open chromatin, variably prominent nucleoli and scant to moderate, clear to eosinophilic cytoplasm. Cytological atypia and significant mitotic activity were minimal. None of the tumours expressed lineage‐specific immunophenotypical markers. Both cases were diffusely positive for nuclear TFE3. Unlike YAP1–TFE3‐fused epithelioid haemangioendothelioma, for which the fusion breakpoint occurs in YAP1 exon 1 and TFE3 exons 4 or 6, the fusion breakpoints of these tumours were located in YAP1 exon 4 and TFE3 exon 7. Following complete surgical resection, neither of the tumours has recurred or metastasised (follow‐up period 6–7 months).

Conclusions

We validate the presence of YAP1–TFE3 gene fusion in a unique primary mesenchymal tumour of lung, adding additional support for clear cell stromal tumour of the lung as a distinct entity.
Elevated transaminases potentiate the risk for emerging dysglycemia in children with overweight and obesity
Authors: Koutny Florian , Stein Robert , Kiess Wieland , Weghuber Daniel , Körner Antje
Published: June 2021

Background

There is evidence that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) increases the risk for dysglycemia in children in cross‐sectional studies. However, the extent to which NAFLD may confer the risk for dysglycemia in longitudinal studies remains uncertain.

Objectives

We investigated whether elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as a proxy for NAFLD can serve as a predictor for future dysglycemia among children.

Methods

We performed survival analysis up to 11 years of follow‐up on longitudinal data of 510 children with overweight and obesity from the Leipzig Childhood Cohort.

Results

Children with overweight/obesity and elevated ALT values had a more than 2‐fold increased risk (hazard ratio 2.59, 95% confidence interval 1.49 to 4.50; P < 0.01) for future dysglycemia independent of age, sex and BMI‐SDS.

Conclusions

Elevated transaminases are an early predictor for glycemic deterioration. Hence, NAFLD should further be addressed as a risk factor and therapeutic target for the early prevention of type 2 diabetes.
The economically rich refugees: A case study of the business operations of Istanbul‐based Syrian refugee businesspeople
Authors: Chang Ching‐An
Published: June 2021

In sharp contrast to the orthodox understanding of refugees as resourceless and disadvantaged victims, this article examines the impact that business operations of Istanbul‐based Syrian refugee businesspeople have on their host economy, as well as determining which factors contribute to overcoming the social and legal challenges that prevent them from building their livelihoods. Since the impact of refugees on host countries is one of the main factors in a two‐way process of integration between hosts and migrants, the analysis also takes into account the Turkish businesspeople's perspectives on Syrians. I argue that a reinvestigation of the diverse socio‐economic make‐up of refugees is crucial for examining refugees’ impact on host countries and for the planning of refugee policies, since the strategies refugees apply for overcoming (or alleviating) the challenges they encounter in the host countries are closely related to their pre‐refuged capital and can be transferred to the host countries.
Abrupt change to telephone follow‐up clinics in a regional rheumatology service during COVID‐19: analysis of treatment decisions
Authors: Mair Jonathan , Woolley Michelle , Grainger Rebecca
Published: June 2021

During the 2020 COVID‐19 lockdown our rheumatology service provided follow up by phone. We reviewed clinic documents to compare patients serviced, and patient assessment and treatment outcomes. More patients received care during the lockdown but patient rheumatic disease was deemed active less frequently, more patients had no change to disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs and patients were less likely to have an intervention arranged. This suggests careful patient selection and appropriate infrastructure should be part of future rheumatology telemedicine.
Optimising participation of persons with cognitive impairment in a national dementia registry: challenges and solutions
Authors: Lin Xiaoping , Wallis Kasey , Ahern Susannah , Brodaty Henry , Rowe Christopher , Kain Barbara , Lambourne Sally , McNeil John , Ward Stephanie A.
Published: June 2021

Clinical quality registries are increasingly utilised to monitor and improve healthcare quality. Opt‐out consent is recommended to maximise participation and ensure validity of data, however, presents specific considerations when including persons with impaired decision‐making abilities. This paper describes the innovative Australian Dementia Network Registry recruitment framework designed to optimise inclusion of people with dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
Broncho‐alveolar lavage in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID‐19
Authors: Cornelissen Christian G. , Bergs Ingmar , Müller Annegret G. , Daher Ayham , Kersten Alexander , Balfanz Paul , Lemmen Sebastian , Marx Gernot , Marx Nikolaus , Dreher Michael , Müller Tobias
Published: June 2021

As data about microbiological testing and the cellular composition of the broncho‐alveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in patients ventilated due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are lacking, this was investigated in a retrospective analysis (n = 58). Co‐infection with pathogens was detected in 31 patients, whereas the analysis of BAL cellularity showed an increased total cell count and an alveolitis dominated by neutrophils. None of the physicians performing bronchoscopies in COVID‐19 patients had serological evidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection.
An audit of the effect of SGLT2 inhibitor cessation in a pre‐admission clinic before and after Australian Diabetes Society guidelines
Authors: Fookeerah Prishila , Law Henry , Ali Farheen , Chatten Katherine , Kim Claire , Cheung Ngai Wah
Published: June 2021

Perioperative ketoacidosis is an important adverse event related to the use of sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). We compared perioperative outcomes in patients on SGLT2i, before and after protocolised pre‐operative cessation of the drug. There were no cases of clinically detected diabetic ketoacidosis in the 96 patients included in the study. Withdrawal of SGLT2i did not appear to alter significantly pre‐operative glycaemia.
In‐doped LiCa2.98MgV3O12 rare‐earth‐free phosphor with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 67.4%
Authors: Lv Yixuan , Shi Le , Shi Jian‐Wen , Zhang Yijun , Ma Dandan , Cheng Yonghong , Niu Chunming
Published: June 2021

Rare earth resources applied in numerous novel materials, are increasingly scarce in worldwide. Meanwhile, great attention has been focused on the blue rare‐earth‐free fluorescent phosphors as an excitation source of near‐ultraviolet (NUV) chips, which are available in white‐light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) that combined with yellow commercial phosphors. Many solutions have been found to improve the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of phosphor. In this study, we effectively increased PLQY by introducing indium ion to vanadate garnet phosphor forming a series of LiCa3−XMgV3O12: xIn3+ (x = 0.01, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10). The resultant In‐doped vanadate garnet phosphors exhibit a relative increase in PLQY, and the optimal phosphors is LiCa2.98MgV3O12: 0.02In3+ with a PLQY as high as 67.4%. These In‐doped vanadate garnet phosphors have a broad emission at 480 under 320 nm where near UV‐light excitation. It is revealed that the distortion of V‐V and V‐O bond length in [VO4] crystal structure and unit cell volume data of phosphors have an extensive influence on PLQY. Therefore, these novel vanadate garnet phosphors can be the essential blue color choice for WLED devices application in illumination.
Super‐resolved local recruitment of CLDN5 to filtration slits implicates a direct relationship with podocyte foot process effacement
Authors: Tesch Florian , Siegerist Florian , Hay Eleonora , Artelt Nadine , Daniel Christoph , Amann Kerstin , Zimmermann Uwe , Kavvadas Panagiotis , Grisk Olaf , Chadjichristos Christos , Endlich Karlhans , Chatziantoniou Christos , Endlich Nicole
Published: June 2021

Under healthy conditions, foot processes of neighbouring podocytes are interdigitating and connected by an electron‐dense slit diaphragm. Besides slit diaphragm proteins, typical adherens junction proteins are also found to be expressed at this cell‐cell junction. It is therefore considered as a highly specialized type of adherens junction. During podocyte injury, podocyte foot processes lose their characteristic 3D structure and the filtration slits typical meandering structure gets linearized. It is still under debate how this change of structure leads to the phenomenon of proteinuria. Using super‐resolution 3D‐structured illumination microscopy, we observed a spatially restricted up‐regulation of the tight junction protein claudin‐5 (CLDN5) in areas where podocyte processes of patients suffering from minimal change disease (MCD), focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) as well as in murine nephrotoxic serum (NTS) nephritis and uninephrectomy DOCA‐salt hypertension models, were locally injured. CLDN5/nephrin ratios in human glomerulopathies and NTS‐treated mice were significantly higher compared to controls. In patients, the CLDN5/nephrin ratio is significantly correlated with the filtration slit density as a foot process effacement marker, confirming a direct association of local CLDN5 up‐regulation in injured foot processes. Moreover, CLDN5 up‐regulation was observed in some areas of high filtration slit density, suggesting that CLND5 up‐regulation preceded the changes of foot processes. Therefore, CLDN5 could serve as a biomarker predicting early foot process effacement.
Cognitive control processes in behavior therapy for youth with Tourette’s disorder
Authors: McGuire Joseph F. , Sturm Alexandra , Ricketts Emily J. , Montalbano Gabrielle E. , Chang Susanna , Loo Sandra K. , Woods Douglas W. , McCracken James , Piacentini John
Published: June 2021

Background

Cognitive control processes are implicated in the behavioral treatment of Tourette’s disorder (TD). However, the influence of these processes on treatment outcomes has received minimal attention. This study examined whether cognitive control processes and/or tic suppression predicted reductions in tic severity and treatment response to behavior therapy.

Method

Fifty‐three youth with TD or a pervasive tic disorder participated in a randomized wait list‐controlled trial of behavior therapy. Following a baseline assessment to evaluate psychiatric diagnoses, tic severity, and cognitive control processes (e.g., response selection, inhibition, and suppression), youth were randomly assigned to receive eight sessions of behavior therapy (n = 23) or a wait list of equal duration (n = 28). Youth receiving immediate treatment completed a post‐treatment assessment to determine improvement in tic severity. Meanwhile, youth in the wait list condition completed another assessment to re‐evaluate tic severity and cognitive control processes, and subsequently received 8 sessions of behavior therapy followed by a post‐treatment assessment to determine improvement.

Results

A multiple linear regression model found that pretreatment inhibition/switching on the Delis‐Kaplan Executive Function System Color‐Word Interference Test predicted reductions in tic severity after behavior therapy (β = −.36, t = −2.35, p = .025, ƞ2 = .15). However, other cognitive control processes and tic suppression did not predict treatment response and/or reductions in tic severity. Small nonsignificant effects were observed in cognitive control processes after behavior therapy.

Conclusion

Cognitive control processes may influence tic severity reductions in behavior therapy. Notably, even when other cognitive control processes are impaired and youth are initially unable to voluntarily suppress their tics, youth with TD can still benefit from behavior therapy. Findings offer implications for clinical practice and research for TD.
Childhood epidermal necrolysis and erythema multiforme major: a multicentre French cohort study of 62 patients
Authors: Giraud‐Kerleroux L. , Bellon N. , Welfringer‐Morin A. , Leclerc‐Mercier S. , Costedoat I. , Coquin J. , Brun A. , Roguedas‐Contios A.‐M. , Bernier C. , Milpied B. , Tétart F. , Du Thanh A. , Cordel N. , Bensaid B. , Fargeas C. , Tauber M. , Renolleau S. , Boralevi F. , Ingen‐Housz‐Oro S. , Bodemer C.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

The distinction between epidermal necrolysis [EN; including Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and overlap syndrome] and erythema multiforme major (EMM) in children is confusing. We aimed to better describe and compare these entities.

Materials and methods

This French retrospective multicentre study included children ≤18 years old referred for EN or EMM between 1 January 2008 and 1 March 2019. According to pictures, children were reclassified into TEN/overlap, SJS or EMM/unclassified (SJS/EMM) groups and compared for epidemiological and clinical data, triggers, histology and follow‐up.

Results

We included 62 children [43 boys, median age 10 years (range 3–18)]: 16 with TEN/overlap, 11 SJS and 35 EMM. The main aetiologies were drugs in EN and infections (especially Mycoplasma pneumoniae) in EMM (P < 0.001), but 35% of cases remained idiopathic (TEN/overlap, 47%; SJS, 24%; EMM, 34%). The typical target lesions predominated in EMM (P < 0.001), the trunk was more often affected in EN (P < 0.001), and the body surface area involved was more extensive in EN (P < 0.001). Mucosal involvement did not differ between the groups. Two patients with idiopathic TEN died. Histology of EMM and EN showed similar features. The recurrence rate was 42% with EMM, 7% with TEN/overlap and 0 with SJS (P < 0.001). Sequelae occurred in 75% of EN but involved 55% of EMM.

Conclusion

Clinical features of EN and EMM appeared well demarcated, with few overlapping cases. Idiopathic forms were frequent, especially for EN, meaning that a wide and thorough infectious screening, repeated if needed, is indicated for all paediatric cases of EN/EMM without any trigger drug. We propose a comprehensive panel of investigations which could be a standard work‐up in such situation. Sequelae affected both EN and EMM.
Knowledge about, attitude toward, and practices in skin care among Thai adolescents
Authors: Nitiyarom Rattanavalai , Banomyong Narin , Wisuthsarewong Wanee
Published: June 2021

Background

Skin care for maintaining skin integrity includes cleansing, skin product use, and photoprotection. Inappropriate skin care can lead to skin problems.

Aims

To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices in skin care among Thai adolescents.

Patients/Methods

Questionnaire‐based, descriptive, cross‐sectional study.

Results

A total of 588 Thai adolescent students (mean age: 15.6 ± 1.8 years, 50.5% female) were included. Of those who responded, 99.5% knew the benefits of cleansing, and 95.9% knew the benefits of skin care products. Skin products, moisturizer, and sunscreen were used by 87.8%, 80.8%, and 71.5% of students, respectively. Female teenagers used moisturizers, cosmetics, and sunscreen significantly more than males (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). High school teenagers applied cosmetics more than junior high school teenagers (p = 0.004). Ninety‐three percent of adolescents knew the effects of sunlight, but only 27.4% regularly applied sunscreen. The sources of knowledge were from person, online social media, print media, and television/radio in 88.5%, 77.5%, 30.7%, and 26.1%, respectively. Data from physicians and parents were trusted by 65.3% and 64.2%, respectively. Most (74.1%) adolescents searched for data from more than 1 source. Adolescent females and high school adolescents demonstrated significantly more accurate knowledge and practice in cleansing and photoprotection (p < 0.001) compared with adolescent males and junior high school adolescents. Knowledge and practices did not significantly correlate with underlying skin diseases or monthly allowance.

Conclusion

Gender and education level were found to significantly influence knowledge and practice in skin care among adolescents in Thailand.
Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging versus Intraoperative Frozen Section Diagnosis for Predicting the Deep Myometrial Invasion in Endometrial Cancer: Our Experience and Literature Review
Authors: Iitsuka Chiaki , Asami Yuka , Hirose Yusuke , Nagashima Minoru , Mimura Takashi , Miyamoto Shingo , Onuki Mamiko , Ohgiya Yoshimitsu , Kushima Miki , Sekizawa Akihiko , Matsumoto Koji
Published: June 2021

Aim

The present study was designed to directly compare the diagnostic performance of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative frozen section (FS) diagnoses in predicting deep myometrial invasion (MI) of endometrial cancer.

Methods

Using MRI findings and FS diagnoses, 194 patients with surgically staged endometrial cancer were evaluated for deep MI between 2006 and 2018. Definitive histological diagnosis of paraffin sections of excised tissues was used as the gold standard approach.

Results

Of 194 cases, 53 (27.3%) cases were finally diagnosed as having deep MI (≥50%). There was 82% total agreement between MRI and FS diagnoses in predicting deep MI, with a kappa value of 0.54 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.40–0.67, moderate agreement). The sensitivity of FS diagnosis (0.66, 95% CI = 0.52–0.78) for predicting deep MI was lower than that of MRI (0.77, 95% CI = 0.63–0.87; p = 0.21), while the specificity of FS (0.98, 95% CI = 0.93–0.99) was significantly higher than that of MRI (0.88, 95% CI = 0.81–0.93; p = 0.001). Overall, the accuracy of FS (0.89, 95% CI = 0.84–0.93) was higher than that of MRI (0.85, 95% CI = 0.79–0.90), although the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.23). The accuracy (0.95, 95% CI = 0.90–0.97) was very high in cases with concordant MRI and FS results.

Conclusions

MRI and FS showed different diagnostic characteristics for predicting deep MI, with a higher specificity observed for FS and the greatest accuracy obtained in concordant cases. Thus, our findings recommend the addition of FS diagnosis, either alone or in conjunction with MRI, to MI evaluation.
Whether preoperative hysteroscopy increases the dissemination of endometrial cancer cells: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dong He , Wang Yongxin , Zhang Mingyue , Sun Mengzi , Yue Ying
Published: June 2021

Aim

To determine whether hysteroscopy (HSC) increases the risk of intraperitoneal dissemination in endometrial cancer patients.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive review of multiple databases. Quality assessments of eligible studies were performed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa and Jadad scales. Positive peritoneal cytology (PPC) as the outcome of interest was compared between endometrial cancer patients with and without HSC. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated as a measure of effects.

Results

Three case–control studies and eight retrospective cohort studies included 3364 patients, of whom 1116 underwent preoperative HSC, which resulted in a significantly higher PPC rate (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.31–2.54; p = 0.0004). I2 was 11%, and the heterogeneity was acceptable. The difference between the groups with stages I–II was statistically insignificant (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.75–2.99; p = 0.25). When liquid was used as the uterine distension medium during HSC and the intrauterine pressure was controlled under 80 mmHg, the difference between the two groups was also insignificant (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.50–2.79; p = 0.71). However, when the intrauterine pressure exceeded 80 mmHg, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.28–3.73; p = 0.004).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis indicates that preoperative HSC in patients with endometrial cancer may increase the risk of intraperitoneal dissemination of malignant cells, which may be associated with intrauterine pressure >80 mmHg but not with stages I–II. There is no reason to avoid HSC for the diagnosis of endometrial cancer, especially in early stages, but intrauterine pressure should possibly be controlled below 80 mmHg.
Challenges facing pathologists evaluating PD‐L1 in head & neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Girolami Ilaria , Pantanowitz Liron , Barberis Massimo , Paolino Gaetano , Brunelli Matteo , Vigliar Elena , Munari Enrico , Satturwar Swati , Troncone Giancarlo , Eccher Albino
Published: June 2021

Background

Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression with combined positive score (CPS) ≥1 is required for administration of checkpoint inhibitor therapy in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The 22C3 pharmDx Dako immunohistochemical assay is the one approved as companion diagnostic for pembrolizumab, but many laboratories work on other platforms and/or with other clones, and studies exploring the potential interchangeability of assays have appeared.

Evidence from the literature

After review of the literature, it emerges that the concordance among assays ranges from fair to moderate, with a tendence of assay SP263 to yield a higher quota of positivity and of assay SP142 to stain better immune cells. Moreover, pathologists achieve very good concordance in assessing PD‐L1 CPS, particularly with SP263.

Conclusions

Differences in terms of platforms, procedures, and study design still preclude a quantitative synthesis of evidence and clearly further work is needed to draw stronger conclusions on the interchangeability of PD‐L1 assays in HNSCC.
Genetic background of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae in German shepherd dogs
Authors: Gluding D. , Stock K. F. , Tellhelm B. , Kramer M. , Eley N.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Estimation of genetic parameters of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae based on data derived from radiographic screening of 27,597 German shepherd dogs.

Materials and Methods

Results of radiographic screening for lumbosacral transitional vertebrae classified according to a published scheme were collected. Obtained data were used for estimating variance components in single and multiple trait linear animal models to obtain heritabilities and additive genetic correlations for different types of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae.

Results

Estimations indicated a moderate heritability of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae of h2 = 0.27. Trait definitions reflecting the different types of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae revealed positive additive genetic correlations of rg > 0.5 between those types usually categorised as pathologic.

Clinical Significance

Results of comprehensive genetic analyses enable the development of breeding measures against lumbosacral transitional vertebrae to reduce their prevalence and support management of potentially correlated diseases in German shepherd dogs.
New therapies for hepatitis delta virus infection
Authors: Loureiro Dimitri , Castelnau Corinne , Tout Issam , Boyer Nathalie , Narguet Stéphanie , Menasria Benazzouz Sabrina , Louis Zeina , Pons‐Kerjean Nathalie , Giuly Nathalie , Marcellin Patrick , Mansouri Abdellah , Asselah Tarik
Published: June 2021

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection is a defective virus requiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its complete replication cycle. HDV is a small hepatotropic RNA virus and around 15 to 25 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis delta (CHD) infection. However, the prevalence of HDV may be underestimated, and screening is frequently insufficient. HDV infection remains endemic in several regions including Central and West Africa, the Mediterranean basin, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Northern Asia, certain areas of Southeast Asia and the Amazon basin of South America. The best preventive strategy to decrease HDV infection is to improve coverage of the prophylactic HBV vaccine. HDV infection may occur by HBV‐HDV co‐infection or superinfection, and the latter is usually more severe. CHD is associated with a higher risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to HBV mono‐infection. Pegylated interferon alpha (PEG‐IFNα) therapy is limited by moderate effectiveness (around 20%) and its adverse effects. The entry inhibitor, bulevirtide (BLV, Hepcludex®), which was recently approved in Europe at a dose of 2 mg in sub‐cutaneous injection per day, is indicated for the treatment of CHD in adult patients with compensated liver disease and positive HDV viremia. BLV can be administrated in monotherapy or in combination with PEG‐IFNα. Nucleos(t)ide analogues can be used in combination for underlying HBV infection. The optimal treatment duration has not yet been determined and treatment should be continued if a clinical benefit is observed. There are other promising therapies such as IFN lambda (IFNλ) (immunomodulator), lonafarnib (prenylation inhibitor) and nucleic acid polymers (Inhibitors of HBsAg release). In this review, we will present an update on CHD and future promising treatments.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes – A specific entity?
Authors: Schröder Benjamin , Kahl Sabine , Roden Michael
Published: June 2021

Individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes (T2D) have an increased risk of developing non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In insulin‐resistant states, altered adipose tissue function may be the initial abnormality underlying NAFLD. Hepatic lipid oversupply interferes with insulin signalling and mitochondrial function. In obese individuals, adaptation of hepatic mitochondrial respiration fails with the progression of NAFLD and can activate pro‐inflammatory pathways. T2D as well as type 1 diabetes are associated with altered hepatic mitochondrial function. Screening for NAFLD remains challenging especially in those with diabetes because liver enzymes are often in the normal range and the performance of NAFLD scores is limited. Patients with T2D and severe insulin‐resistant diabetes (SIRD) have the highest prevalence of NAFLD at diagnosis and the greatest risk of progression. In this subgroup, the single‐nucleotide‐polymorphism (SNP) rs738409(G) of the patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) gene is associated with high liver fat content and adipose tissue insulin resistance. This frequent SNP is also known to be associated with lean NAFLD so that genetic testing for this and other SNPs could improve future screening strategies to identify high‐risk individuals. Although lifestyle modifications are effective, this approach is limited owing to difficulties with compliance and several classes of drugs are being tested to treat NAFLD. Antihyperglycaemic drugs such as glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA), sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and pioglitazone are promising and halt the progression of NAFLD. In conclusion, although NAFLD in diabetes may not be a separate entity, there are specific features to its pathogenesis and clinical management.
HBV 2021: New therapeutic strategies against an old foe
Authors: Roca Suarez Armando Andres , Testoni Barbara , Zoulim Fabien
Published: June 2021

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects more than 250 million people worldwide, and is one of the major aetiologies for the development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In spite of universal vaccination programs, HBV infection is still a public health problem, and the limited number of available therapeutic approaches complicates the clinical management of these patients. Thus, HBV infection remains an unmet medical need that requires a continuous effort to develop new individual molecules, treatment combinations and even completely novel therapeutic strategies to achieve the goal of HBV elimination. The following review provides an overview of the current situation in chronic HBV infection, with an analysis of the scientific rationale of certain clinical interventions and, more importantly, explores the most recent developments in the field of HBV drug discovery.
End‐stage liver disease: Management of hepatorenal syndrome
Authors: Mauro Ezequiel , Garcia‐Olveira Lucrecia , Gadano Adrián
Published: June 2021

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a serious complication of cirrhosis with high morbidity and mortality rates. Recently, the definition of HRS type 1 has been updated and is now called HRS‐AKI. This new definition reduces the risk of delaying HRS treatment and eliminates the need to establish a minimum creatinine cut‐off for the diagnosis of HRS‐AKI. From a pathophysiological point of view, newly identified mechanisms involved in the development of HRS are related to the inflammatory response, conditioning the development of extrahepatic organ dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis. One of the main challenges for the diagnosis of HRS is the validation of new biomarkers to obtain an early and differential diagnosis of kidney injury (eg HRS vs. ATN). Treatment of HRS is based on the use of vasoconstrictive agents in combination with albumin and terlipressin is the most widely used vasoconstrictor drug, with a high response rate. The effects of a continuous infusion of terlipressin at a dose of 2‐12 mg/day was similar to bolus administration, but with lower rates of adverse events. Finally, MELD/MELD‐Na which includes creatinine as one of its main determinants gives AKI‐HRS patients priority on the waiting list (WL) for liver transplant (LT). However, the MELD and MELD‐Na scores are reduced in responding patients, resulting a longer waiting time in these patients than in non‐responders. Thus, the initial MELD/MELD‐Na score (pre‐treatment value) should be used to prioritize patients on the WL for LT in these cases.