bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drainage after posterior single-level instrumented lumbar fusion
Authors: Chen Tao , Chang Hengrui , Liu Kaiyu , Shi Mingxin , Song Chengjie , Meng Xianzhong
Published: February 2020

Recent findings have shown a trend toward recommending against the routine use of drains in spinal surgery because it carries the risk for potential complications. However, most surgeons still use closed suction drainage to prevent hematoma formation. This study is to compare the clinical outcomes between natural pressure drainage and negative pressure drainage after posterior lumbar interbody fusion.

Consecutive 132 patients who underwent spinal fusion in the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University and met the inclusion criteria were reviewed from January 2018 to January 2019 and divided into negative pressure drainage group and natural pressure drainage group according to different pressure drainage. There were 64 patients who had a negative pressure drainage placed and 68 patients who had a natural pressure drainage placed. Demographics, intraoperative blood loss, operative room time, drainage volume at the 1st postoperative day, total volume of postoperative drainage, the total drainage days, postoperative temperature, and postoperative complications (wound infection, symptomatic hematoma) were compared between the 2 groups.

The median drainage volume at the 1st postoperative day in negative pressure group was 204.89 ± 95.19 mL, while in natural pressure group, it was 141.00 ± 52.19 mL (P = .000). The median total volume of postoperative drainage in negative pressure group was 378.06 ± 117.98 mL, while in natural pressure group, it was 249.32 ± 70.74 mL (P = .000). The median total drainage days between natural pressure group and negative pressure group were obviously different (2.93 ± 0.55 vs 3.51 ± 0.71 days, P = .000). There was no difference in patient characteristics, operative data, postoperative temperature, and complications.

Natural pressure drainage significantly reduced postoperative drainage volume and indwelling time, but did not increase postoperative complications. Therefore, it may offer an alternative to negative pressure drainage and is as safe and effective as negative pressure drainage.
Quantitative analysis of revascularization in ischemic moyamoya disease via whole-brain computed tomography perfusion
Authors: Han Qingdong , Huang Yabo
Published: February 2020

Ischemic moyamoya disease (MMD) can be treated with the revascularization of superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass combined with encephalo-duro-arterio-myo-synangiosis (EDAMS) effectively. The purpose of the present study was to quantify the revascularization of STA-MCA bypass combined with EDAMS via whole-brain computed tomography perfusion (WB-CTP).

Seventy-nine consecutive patients with ischemic MMD who admitted to our hospital from August 2012 to October 2018 were carried out STA-MCA bypass combined with EDAMS. WB-CTP was performed at 24 hours prior to operation and 3 months following bypass with a follow-up WB-CTP, respectively. Both automatic analysis of WB-CTP (MIStar, Apollo Medical imaging Technology, Melbourne, Australia) for analyzing values of brain volume in delayed time (DT) >3 seconds and DT > 6 seconds, relative cerebral blood flow (γCBF) < 30% and its mismatch ratio or percentage and diffusion-weighted imaging of magnetic resonance imaging in the ischemic penumbra and the infarct core at the 2 time points were studied for verifying the effectiveness of the combined revascularization. Changes in DT values at MCA-terminal territory after revascularization had been investigated. The dynamic data were with reference to the individual cerebellar arteries.

All patients with ischemic MMD underwent STA-MCA bypass combined with EDAMS successfully. The preoperative brain volume in DT > 3 seconds in MCA-terminal territory was significantly larger than that of postoperative one (P < .05) in the ischemic penumbra in ischemic MMD. The mismatch ratio in brain volume of 24 hours prior to revascularization in MCA-terminal territory was significantly lower than that of 3 months (P < .05) following combined revascularization. The percentage of mismatch in brain volume of 24 hours prior to revascularization vs that of 3 months and the value of γCBF < 30% were similar to the above mismatch ratio (P < .05). The ratio of postoperative brain volume in DT > 3 seconds vs DT > 6 seconds indicated no significant differences compared with that of preoperative one (P > .05).

The WB-CTP can be regarded as a choice for quantifying the combined revascularization in the ischemic penumbra and the infarct core in ischemic MMD. As proposed methods, brain volume in DT > 3 seconds, the value of γCBF < 30% and mismatch ratio in brain volume in MCA-terminal territory should be paid more attention in assessing the validity of STA-MCA bypass combined with EDAMS in ischemic MMD.
Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference for Cancer Metabolism and Therapy, October 12–14, 2018, Shanghai, China
Authors: Xiao Gary Guishan , Zhang Zhigang , Lu Bin , Wang Hongyang , Fan Teresa WM , Boros László G. , Gao Ping , Pan Yue , Go Vay Liang W.
Published: February 2020

The 3rd International Conference for Cancer Metabolism and Therapy was successfully held at the South Hospital Conference Center of Shanghai First People's Hospital, nearly 200 international experts from the field of cancer metabolism and therapy and about two thousand local scientists attended the conference. The conference was sponsored by the Yangtze River Delta City Group Hospital Synergistic Development Strategic Alliance, the China Anti-Cancer Association Cancer Metabolism Professional Committee, the Chinese Association for Cancer Metabolism and Therapy under Chinese Medical Doctoral Association-Clinical Precision Medicine, and co-organized by the First People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Basic Medicine Undertake, Translational Medicine Network, Shanghai Anti-Cancer Association Youth Council, Fudan University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, University of California, Los Angeles, Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases and Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Dalian University of Technology, New York-Presbyterian, American Cancer Research Association (AACR). The theme of the conference was "Inheritance, Innovation, Excellence, Leading" and its aim is to create a high-end academic exchange platform to discuss new technologies, new methods, and new products in tumor metabolism, tumor immunity, tumor markers and other fields. The conference involves cancer metabolism reprogramming, metabolism and tumor microenvironment, lipid metabolism, non-metabolic function of metabolic enzymes, metabolism and epigenetics, clinical transformation, new technologies for tumor immunotherapy, clinical application of tumor immunotherapy, emerging targeted therapy, PD-1/PD-L1 technology, CAR-T technology, novel tumor protein markers, novel tumor methylation markers, ctDNA, CTC, etc. The meeting ended in a lively discussion among scientists from different levels who truly benefit from the sessions about cancer metabolism and treatment. The next meeting is planned to be held October 2 through October 6, 2019 in Los Angeles, Calif. The meeting venue will be announced accordingly in the meeting web site (www.cmt.org).
Functional Luminal Imaging Probe Assessment in Postfundoplication Patients Changes Management Beyond Manometry
Authors: Rosen Rachel , Garza Jose M. , Nurko Samuel
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

Fundoplication is a commonly performed pediatric surgery but the surgery can result in nonspecific symptoms that merit further evaluation. The goal of this study was to determine the utility of Functional Luminal Imaging Probe (FLIP) compared with high‐resolution manometry with impedance (HRIM) in the evaluation of fundoplication symptoms.

Methods:

We reviewed the FLIP and HRIM tracings of symptomatic fundoplication patients. We compared FLIP results of fundoplication patients to those of pediatric achalasia and control patients. We also compared the role of FLIP to HRIM in clinical decision‐making and clinical outcomes.

Results:

EGJ distensibilities of fundoplication patients ranged from 0.6 to 8.2 mm2/mmHg. Because of the different pediatric patient sizes (8.9‐‐73.5 kg), balloon size inflations varied but, after adjusting balloon fill volume by weight, there was a linear relationship between inflation and distensibility. When compared with control patients and achalasia patients, distensibilities of fundoplication patients were lower than control patients and higher than achalasia patients (P = 0.0001). Patients who had an EGJ intervention had a mean EGJ distensibility of 2.3 ± 1.1 mm2/mmHg compared with 5.1 ± 1.6 mm2/mmHg in medically managed patients (P = 0.0001). Patients who had an esophagogastric junction (EGJ) intervention had a mean IRP of 13.9 ± 6.1 mmHg compared with medically managed patients who had a mean IRP of 9.9 ± 3.9 mmHg (P = 0.3).

Conclusions:

We show FLIP may provide additional insight into EGJ physiology in symptomatic fundoplication patients and complements HRIM.
A Brief Report and Mini-Review of Visceral Leishmaniasis-associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Children
Authors: Mantadakis Elpis , Alexiadou Sonia , Totikidis George , Grapsa Anastasia , Chatzimichael Athanassios
Published: February 2020

We present the case of a 7-year-old boy who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Prompt visualization of his bone marrow confirmed the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). He responded well to treatment with liposomal amphotericin-B. The patient had a false-negative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for Leishmania infantum and a false-positive immunoglobulin M test for Epstein Barr virus (EBV). Because age at presentation is similar in children with VL and familial HLH for whom EBV is the usual trigger, ruling out VL is extremely important because nonspecific serologic tests for EBV can lead to the inappropriate diagnosis of EBV-driven primary HLH and to the administration of unnecessary immunochemotherapy.
Evidence-Based Practice Change Champion Program Improves Quality Care
Authors: Cullen Laura , Hanrahan Kirsten , Farrington Michele , Anderson Robert , Dimmer Emily , Miner Rebecca , Suchan Taylor , Rod Emily
Published: February 2020

Nurses need training and mentoring to lead evidence-based practice (EBP) improvements. An array of roles have been reported to have a positive impact on EBP adoption. A training program was created to assist point-of-care nurses and nurse leader partners in operationalizing the EBP Change Champion role to address priority quality indicators. The program, a case exemplar, and lessons learned are described with implications for leaders responsible for promoting EBP to improve quality care.
Comparison of 5 Different PET Radiopharmaceuticals for the Detection of Recurrent Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Sang-Woo , Shim Sung Ryul , Jeong Shin Young , Kim Seong-Jang
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate and compare the performance of different PET radiopharmaceuticals for the detection of recurrent medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) by performing a network meta-analysis (NMA) using direct comparison studies with 2 or more PET radiopharmaceuticals.

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE were searched for the studies evaluating the performance of PET or PET/CT for the detection of recurrent MTC. The NMA was performed for different PET radiopharmaceuticals in both patient- and lesion-based analyses and with a threshold of serum calcitonin or carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels and calcitonin doubling time. The consistency was evaluated by examining the agreement between direct and indirect treatment effects, and publication bias was assessed by funnel plot asymmetry tests. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve values were obtained to calculate the probability of each PET modality being the most effective diagnostic method.

Results

A total of 306 patients from 14 direct comparison studies using 5 different PET radiopharmaceuticals (18F-FDG, 18F-DOPA, 68Ga-somatostatin analogs, 3-O-methyl-6-[18F]fluoro-DOPA, and 11C-methionine) for the detection of recurrent MTC was included. The detection rate of 18F-DOPA PET was significantly higher than that of FDG PET in both patient- and lesion-based analyses (patient-based analysis: odds ratio, 2.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–4.31; lesion-based analysis: odds ratio, 5.74; 95% confidence interval, 1.65–23.4). Among all PET radiopharmaceuticals, 18F-DOPA showed the highest surface under the cumulative ranking curve value in both patient- and lesion-based analyses regardless of serum calcitonin or CEA levels and calcitonin doubling time.

Conclusions

The results from this NMA indicate that 18F-DOPA PET clearly showed a best performance for the detection of recurrent MTC in both patient- and lesion-based analyses regardless of serum calcitonin or CEA levels and calcitonin doubling time.
The Envelope of Segmental Movement and Airway Changes After Mandibular Anterior Subapical Osteotomy in Skeletal Class II Protrusion Patients
Authors: Jeong Hyun Joo , Kim Seong-Hun , Choi Byung-Joon , Han Seung-Heui , Ahn Hyo-Won
Published: February 2020

Introduction:

This study aimed to determine the envelope of anterior segmental movement and changes in the inferior pharyngeal airway space (IPAS) and position of the hyoid bone following mandibular anterior subapical osteotomy (ASO) under local anesthesia in skeletal Class II patients with protrusion.

Methods:

The subjects were 33 skeletal Class II adult patients with lip protrusion. They were treated by extraction of 4 premolars and mandibular ASO under local anesthesia. Surgical movement of mandibular anterior segment and IPAS after surgery was evaluated by mandibular superimposition using lateral cephalograms between before and immediately after surgery. The depth of osteotomy and overlapping ratio were measured.

Results:

The mean retraction of the mandibular incisor was 4.04 mm at the tip and 4.29 mm at the root apex. The mean vertical movement of the mandibular incisor was 3.33 mm intrusion at the tip and 3.42 mm at the root apex. The axis of the mandibular incisor did not change significantly. Patients with deep curve of Spee showed significantly more intrusion of incisors, whereas the incisor axis became more proclined. The IPAS became narrower, and the hyoid bone moved downward after surgery. The decreased IPAS was positively correlated with retraction of root apex and proclination of the mandibular incisors.

Conclusion:

To establish precise surgical treatment objectives, a balance between the amount of intrusion and changes in axis should be sought after considering anatomical limitations. Mandibular ASO should be performed with caution in skeletal Class II patients vulnerable to airway-related problems.
Convergent evolution of tail spines in squamate reptiles driven by microhabitat use
Authors: Ramm Till , Roycroft Emily J. , Müller Johannes
Published: February 2020

The repeated evolution of convergent or analogous traits is often used as evidence for adaptive evolution. Squamate reptiles show a high degree of convergence in a variety of morphological traits; however, the evolutionary mechanisms driving these patterns are not fully understood. Here, we investigate the evolution of tail spines, a trait that evolved multiple times in evolutionarily independent clades of lizards. Taking a comparative phylogenetic approach, we use 2877 squamate species to demonstrate that the evolution of spiny tails is correlated with microhabitat use, with species that live in rocky habitats significantly more likely to have evolved spiny tails. In the light of previous behavioural observations, our results suggest that spiny-tailed lizards have an advantage in rocky habitats through predation avoidance, where tail spines are used to prevent extraction from rocky crevices. In concordance with previous research on lizard body armour, our results suggest that the evolution of tail spines is coupled to both a rock-dwelling lifestyle and predator avoidance strategies, and highlight a complex interplay between different selective pressures on the evolution of defensive morphologies in reptiles.
Single-Cell Analysis of the 3D Topologies of Genomic Loci Using Genome Architecture Mapping
Authors: Welch Lonnie R. , Baugher Catherine , Zhang Yingnan , Davis Trenton , Marzluff William F. , Welch Joshua D. , Pombo Ana
Published: February 2020

Although each cell within an organism contains a nearly identical genome sequence, the three-dimensional (3D) packing of the genome varies among individual cells, influencing cell-type-specific gene expression. Genome Architecture Mapping (GAM) is the first genome-wide experimental method for capturing 3D proximities between any number of genomic loci without ligation. GAM overcomes several limitations of 3C-based methods by sequencing DNA from a large collection of thin sections sliced from individual nuclei. The GAM technique measures locus co-segregation, extracts radial positions, infers chromatin compaction, requires small numbers of cells, does not depend on ligation, and provides rich single-cell information. However, previous analyses of GAM data focused exclusively on population averages, neglecting the variation in 3D topology among individual cells.

We present the first single-cell analysis of GAM data, demonstrating that the slices from individual cells reveal intercellular heterogeneity in chromosome conformation. By simultaneously clustering both slices and genomic loci, we identify topological variation among single cells, including differential compaction of cell cycle genes. We also develop a geometric model of the nucleus, allowing prediction of the 3D positions of each slice. Using GAM data from mouse embryonic stem cells, we make new discoveries about the structure of the major mammalian histone gene locus, which is incorporated into the Histone Locus Body (HLB), including structural fluctuations and putative causal molecular mechanisms. Our methods are packaged asSluiceBox, a toolkit for mining GAM data. Our approach represents a new method of investigating variation in 3D genome topology among individual cells across space and time.
Secondary Vulvodynia Patients Show Reduced Bacterial Diversity in Vestibular Microbiome
Authors: Aalto Anu , Mishra Pashupati , Tuomisto Sari , Ceder Tiina , Sundström Kati , Leppänen Riikka , Ahinko Katja , Mäenpää Johanna , Lehtimäki Terho , Karhunen Pekka J , Staff Synnöve
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Localized Provoked Vulvodynia (LPV) is a quite common form of sexual pain among young women. Primary LPV (e.g. pain from the first attempted intercourse) and secondary LPV (pain-free time period before the initiation of symptoms) have been suggested to develop via different pathomechanisms. As inflammation is one possible trigger in LPV, changes in vaginal and/or vulvar microbiome may be an initiator of the inflammatory process leading to peripheral neurosensitization and predisposing women to LPV.

Aim

Aim of this pilot study was to find out, whether there are differences in vestibular microbiome between LPV patients and controls.

Materials and Methods

Thirty women with LPV (8 with primary and 22 with secondary LPV) and 21 controls were prospectively recruited to the study from Kanta-Häme Central Hospital and Tampere University Hospital (TAUH). Paired vestibular samples were collected in clinical outpatient setting and analyzed with 16s rRNA sequencing.

Results

LPV patients had lower BMI, were younger and more often nulliparous than controls. Patients with secondary vulvodynia had reduced (p = 0.06) bacterial species diversity (alpha diversity) and more clustered (p= 0.05) vaginal microbiome community (beta diversity) compared to healthy controls. Differential abundance analysis identified 31 bacterial taxa that contributed to the difference in bacterial composition between secondary cases and controls (p < 0.05). Bacteria taxa that were increased among patients were Gardneralla vaginalis (p<0.0001), Peptoniphilus spp (p<0.0001), Prevotella amnii (p<0.0001) and Streptococcus spp (p=0.0001). Several bacterial species were more abundant among healthy controls reflecting reduced bacterial diversity among patients.

Conclusion

In patients with secondary LPV changes in vulvar microbiome may contribute to pathogenesis of LPV and ultimately lead to targeted therapeutic options. These preliminary findings need to be confirmed in a larger study.
Evaluating the accuracy of different respiratory specimens in the laboratory diagnosis and monitoring the viral shedding of 2019-nCoV infections
Authors: Yang Yang , Yang Minghui , Shen Chenguang , Wang Fuxiang , Yuan Jing , Li Jinxiu , Zhang Mingxia , Wang Zhaoqin , Xing Li , Wei Jinli , Peng Ling , Wong Gary , Zheng Haixia , Wu Weibo , Liao Mingfeng , Feng Kai , Li Jianming , Yang Qianting , Zhao Juanjuan , Zhang Zheng , Liu Lei , Liu Yingxia
Published: February 2020

Background

The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP) caused by 2019-nCoV spread rapidly, and elucidating the diagnostic accuracy of different respiratory specimens is crucial for the control and treatment of this disease.

Methods

Respiratory samples including nasal swabs, throat swabs, sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected from Guangdong CDC confirmed NCP patients, and viral RNAs were detected using a CFDA approved detection kit. Results were analyzed in combination with sample collection date and clinical information.

Findings

Except for BALF, the sputum possessed the highest positive rate (74.4%∼88.9%), followed by nasal swabs (53.6%∼73.3%) for both severe and mild cases during the first 14 days after illness onset (d.a.o). For samples collected ≥ 15 d.a.o, sputum and nasal swabs still possessed a high positive rate ranging from 42.9%∼61.1%. The positive rate of throat swabs collected ≥ 8 d.a.o was low, especially in samples from mild cases. Viral RNAs could be detected in all the lower respiratory tract of severe cases, but not the mild cases. CT scan of cases 02, 07 and 13 showed typical viral pneumonia with ground-glass opacity, while no viral RNAs were detected in first three or all the upper respiratory samples.

Interpretation

Sputum is most accurate for laboratory diagnosis of NCP, followed by nasal swabs. Detection of viral RNAs in BLAF is necessary for diagnosis and monitoring of viruses in severe cases. CT scan could serve as an important make up for the diagnosis of NCP.

Funding

National Science and Technology Major Project, Sanming Project of Medicine and China Postdoctoral Science Foundation.
Primary Care Practitioners’ Response to 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak in China
Authors: Xu Zhijie , Qian Yi , Fang Lizheng , Yao Mi
Published: February 2020

The emerging outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) originated from Wuhan poses a great challenge to healthcare system in China.1 Primary care practitioners (PCPs) have an important role in district communicable disease control.2 However, because primary health-care system in China still needs to be substantially strengthened,3,4 whether PCPs are proactive and capable in responding to the outbreak remains unclear. Using an electronic questionnaire, we surveyed a national sample of PCPs to assess their response to novel coronavirus outbreak.
Myc supercompetitor cells exploit the NMDA receptor to subdue their wild-type neighbours via cell competition
Authors: Banreti Agnes R. , Meier Pascal
Published: February 2020

Myc is a major driver of cell growth in many cancers, but direct inhibition of Myc’s oncogenic activity has been challenging. Interactions between wild-type and Myc-expressing cells cause Myc cells to acquire ‘supercompetitor’ behaviour that increases their fitness and enables them to overtake the tissue by killing their wild-type neighbours through TNF-induced cell death during a process called cell competition. Here we report that the competitive behaviour of Myc, RasV12 cells, and normal epithelial cells, critically depends on the NMDA receptor. Myc cells upregulate NMDAR2 (NR2) to gain supercompetitor status and subdue their wild-type neighbours. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic depletion of NR2 changes the supercompetitor status of oncogenic Myc or RasV12 clones into ‘superlosers’, resulting in their elimination via cell competition by wild-type neighbours in a TNF-dependent manner. Our data demonstrate that that the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) determines cellular fitness during cell competition, and can be targeted to change the fitness landscape of supercompetitive Myc and RasV12 clones, converting them into superlosers.
High-Speed Super-Resolution Imaging Using Protein-Assisted DNA-PAINT
Authors: Filius Mike , Cui Tao Ju , Ananth Adithya , Docter Margreet , Hegge Jorrit W. , van der Oost John , Joo Chirlmin
Published: February 2020

Super-resolution imaging allows for visualization of cellular structures on a nanoscale level. DNA-PAINT (DNA Point Accumulation In Nanoscale Topology) is a super-resolution method that depends on the binding and unbinding of DNA imager strands. The current DNA-PAINT technique suffers from slow acquisition due to the low binding rate of the imager strands. Here we report on a method where imager strands are loaded into a protein, Argonaute (Ago), that allows for faster binding. Ago pre-orders the DNA imager strand into a helical conformation, allowing for 10 times faster target binding. Using a 2D DNA origami structure, we demonstrate that Ago-assisted DNA-PAINT (Ago-PAINT) can speed up the current DNA-PAINT technique by an order of magnitude while maintaining the high spatial resolution. We envision this tool to be useful not only for super-resolution imaging, but also for other techniques that rely on nucleic-acid interactions.
Is genetic liability to ADHD and ASD causally linked to educational attainment?
Authors: Dardani Christina , Leppert Beate , Riglin Lucy , Rai Dheeraj , Howe Laura D , Smith George Davey , Tilling Kate , Thapar Anita , Davies Neil M. , Anderson Emma , Stergiakouli Evie
Published: February 2020

Background

Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at risk of poor educational outcomes. Parental educational attainment has also been associated with risk of ADHD/ASD in the offspring. Despite evidence that ADHD and ASD show genetic links to educational attainment, less is known on the causal nature of the associations and the possible role of IQ.

Methods

We assessed the total causal effects of genetic liability to ADHD/ASD on educational attainment using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). We assessed the possible contribution of IQ to the identified causal effects by estimating the “direct” effects of ADHD/ASD on educational attainment, independent of IQ, using Multivariable MR (MVMR). Reverse direction analyses were performed. The latest GWAS meta-analyses of ADHD, ASD, educational attainment and IQ were used. Causal effect estimates were generated using inverse variance weighted models (IVW). Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the estimates and the presence of pleiotropy.

Results

Genetic liability to ADHD had a total (MRIVW:-3.3 months per doubling of liability to ADHD;95%CI: -4.8 to -1.9; pval= 5*10−6) and direct negative causal effect on educational attainment (MVMRIVW:-1.6 months per doubling of liability to ADHD;95%CI: -2.5 to -0.6; pval= 4*10−4). There was little evidence of a total causal effect of genetic liability to ASD on educational attainment (MRIVW: 4 days, per doubling of liability to ASD;95%CI: -4.9 months to 5.6 months; pval= 0.9) but some evidence of a direct effect not via IQ (MVMRIVW:29 days per doubling the genetic liability to ASD;95%CI: 2 to 48; pval= 0.03). Reverse direction analyses suggested that genetic liability to higher educational attainment was associated with lower risk of ADHD (MRIVWOR: 0.3 per standard deviation (SD) increase;95%CI: 0.26 to 0.36; pval= 6*10−51), even after IQ was entered in the models (MVMRIVWOR:0.33 per SD increase;95%CI: 0.26 to 0.43; pval= 6*10−17). On the contrary, there was evidence consistent with a positive causal effect of genetic liability to higher educational attainment on risk of ASD (MRIVWOR: 1.51 per SD increase;95%CI: 1.29 to 1.77; pval= 4*10−7), which was found to be largely explained by IQ (MVMRIVWORper SD increase: 1.24;95%CI: 0.96 to 1.60; pval= 0.09).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that despite the genetic and phenotypic overlap between ADHD and ASD, they present highly differentiated causal associations with educational attainment. This highlights the necessity for specialized educational interventions for children with ADHD and ASD. Further research is needed in order to decipher whether the identified causal effects reflect parentally transmitted effects, diagnostic masking, or selection bias.
Design trade-offs and robust architectures for combined transcriptional and translational resource allocation controllers
Authors: Darlington Alexander P.S. , Bates Declan G.
Published: February 2020

Recent work on engineering synthetic cellular circuitry has shown that non-regulatory interactions brought about through competition for shared gene expression resources, such as RNA polymerase and ribosomes, can result in degraded performance or even circuit failure. Transcriptional and translational resource allocation controllers based on orthogonal ‘circuit-specific’ gene expression machineries have previously been separately designed to enforce modularity and improve circuit performance. Here we investigate the potential advantages, challenges, and design trade-offs involved in combining transcriptional and translational resource allocation into one overarching centralised control system. We design a number of biologically feasible controllers that reduce coupling at both the transcriptional and translational levels simultaneously, and identify some key performance tradeoffs. We apply tools from robust control theory to rigorously quantify the impact of uncertainty/variability arising due to experimental implementations on the operation of such controllers. Based on these results, we identify promising architectures for the construction of robust dual transcriptional–translational resource allocation controllers.
Stress fibers are embedded in a contractile cortical network
Authors: Vignaud Timothée , Copos Calina , Leterrier Christophe , Tseng Qingzong , Blanchoin Laurent , Mogilner Alex , Théry Manuel , Kurzawa Laetitia
Published: February 2020

Contractile actomyosin networks generate intracellular forces essential for the regulation of cell shape, migration, and cell-fate decisions, ultimately leading to the remodeling and patterning of tissues. Although actin filaments aligned in bundles represent the main source of traction-force production in adherent cells, there is increasing evidence that these bundles form interconnected and interconvertible structures with the rest of the intracellular actin network. In this study, we explored how these bundles are connected to the surrounding cortical network and the mechanical impact of these interconnected structures on the production and distribution of traction forces on the extracellular matrix and throughout the cell. By using a combination of hydrogel micropatterning, traction-force microscopy and laser photoablation, we measured the relaxation of the cellular traction field in response to local photoablations at various positions within the cell. Our experimental results and modeling of the mechanical response of the network revealed that bundles were fully embedded along their entire length in a continuous and contractile network of cortical filaments. Moreover, the propagation of the contraction of these bundles throughout the entire cell was dependent on this embedding. In addition, these bundles appeared to originate from the alignment and coalescence of thin and unattached cortical actin filaments from the surrounding mesh.
The Predictive Global Neuronal Workspace: A Formal Active Inference Model of Visual Consciousness
Authors: Whyte Christopher J. , Smith Ryan
Published: February 2020

The global neuronal workspace (GNW) model has inspired over two decades of hypothesis driven research on the neural basis consciousness. However, recent studies have reported findings that are at odds with empirical predictions of the model. Further, the macro-anatomical focus of current GNW research has limited the specificity of predictions afforded by the model. In this paper we present a neurocomputational model – based on Active Inference – that captures central architectural elements of the GNW and is able to address these limitations. The resulting ‘predictive global workspace’ casts neuronal dynamics as approximating Bayesian inference, allowing precise, testable predictions at both the behavioural and neural levels of description. We report simulations demonstrating the model’s ability to reproduce: 1) the electrophysiological and behaviour results observed in previous studies of inattentional blindness; and 2) the previously introduced four-way taxonomy predicted by the GNW, which describes the relationship between consciousness, attention, and sensory signal strength. We then illustrate how our model can reconcile/explain (apparently) conflicting findings, extend the GNW taxonomy to include the influence of prior expectations, and inspire novel paradigms to test associated behavioural and neural predictions.
Developing an employee recognition program that promotes learning across the organization
Authors: Reese Simon R.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Recognition programs have proven to be a useful tool in engaging employees and helping align them around a common purpose. In this case, study the organization created a recognition program that promoted learning across the organization. The easy to follow steps provided herein can be replicated by leaders in any organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study provides a quick reflection of the steps taken by the organization to create a recognition program that linked behaviors, tactical actions and corporate strategy in a way that engaged all toward learning together.

Findings

With the new program, the organization not only improved employee engagement and alignment around four critical behaviors, the organization also witnessed employee alignment around strategic vision and revenue improvements.

Originality/value

Studies find that employee engagement is seriously lacking. Studies also find that employee engagement is beneficial to employee contribution and employee success. Recognition programs have been described as one method to improve engagement. This case study illustrates how an organization was able to implement such a program.
What drives the process of knowledge management in a cross-cultural setting
Authors: Rezaei Mojtaba , Jafari-Sadeghi Vahid , Bresciani Stefano
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to consider the role and influence of social capital (SC) on knowledge management (KM) and sets out to develop an understanding of the importance of the impact of the cross-cultural environment on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the notion, in this study, the relationship between two essential aspects in management and business, SC on KM practices, has been analyzed. By applying a descriptive and correlational method, the impact of various dimensions of SC on KM in a cross-cultural setting has been investigated, and required data has been obtained through questionnaires consist of 30 items, which is prepared for a sample of 232 people.

Findings

Although the findings are varied, the results indicated that there is an important relationship between SC dimensions and KM in the research environment, which is cross-cultural.

Research limitations/implications

First, as the data derived from different branches of a big company in Iran, its results cannot be easily extended to other contexts. Therefore, future streams of research can expand the scope of this paper into other contexts with different characteristics. Moreover, the sample of this paper is taken from different communities (branches) which increase the variety of personality features in distinct cultures. Thus, further research can stress a particular organization/ branch to avoid the problem of cultural variation and focus on a more homogenous sample. Finally, this study targeted a big organization in the IT sector. However, future studies can investigate another type of firm (e.g. small and medium firms) in different sectors (e.g. manufacturing, food sector, etc.).

Practical implications

In this research, using scientific and practical methods, the impacts have been examined carefully and deliberately to assist the managers of organizations in theoretically and managerially as these outcomes contribute to the development of a new concept called cross-cultural in knowledge management and social capital, and support organizations to cope with the implications of this concept.

Originality/value

There is not much empirical research on cross-cultural settings and its effects on management, finance and business, especially on correlations between KM and SC. This investigation tries to fill this gap and explain the ways, which companies can use SC for enhancing their effectiveness of KM by considering culture diversity impacts.
Ambulance management of patients with penetrating truncal trauma and hypotension in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Rosenbaum Eva , Cox Shelley , Smith Karen , Fitzgerald Mark , Braitberg George , Carpenter Anthony , Bernard Stephen
Published: February 2020

Objective

Penetrating truncal trauma with hypotension is uncommon in Australia. Current pre‐hospital clinical practice guidelines based on overseas studies recommend expedited transport to definitive trauma care and that i.v. fluid should only be administered to maintain palpable blood pressure.

Methods

A retrospective review included all adult patients with penetrating truncal trauma and hypotension (systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg) attended by emergency medical services in Victoria between January 2006 and December 2018. Patient pre‐hospital characteristics and hospital outcomes are described using descriptive statistics. Predictors of fluid resuscitation and mortality were examined using logistic regression analyses.

Results

Between 2006 and 2018 there were 101 hypotensive, penetrating truncal injury major trauma patients in Melbourne, Victoria transported by road ambulance to a major trauma service. The median age of these patients was 38 years (interquartile range [IQR] 27–50) and 85% were male. Median scene time was 16.6 min (IQR 12–26) and median pre‐hospital time was 53.0 min (IQR 38–66). Intravenous fluid resuscitation was given in 54.5% of cases. The mechanism of injury was stabbing in 91.1% and gunshot wound in 8.9%. Urgent surgery was required in 72.3% of cases, 32.7% of patients were admitted to the intensive care unit and there were eight deaths (8.3%).

Conclusion

Penetrating truncal trauma with hypotension is rare in Melbourne, Australia with most patients having the injury caused by stabbing rather than shooting. Compared with outcomes reported in the USA and Europe, the mortality rate is low.
Bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection of gastric lesions
Authors: Yang Chao Hu , Qiu Yu , Li Xiao , Shi Rui Hua
Published: February 2020

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is generally used to treat gastric mucosal and submucosal lesions. Nevertheless, ESD is more difficult and complicated to perform than a traditional endoscopic mucosal resection, which can increase the incidence of various complications including hemorrhage, perforation and infection. Hemorrhage is a major post‐ESD complication. Prevention and early diagnosis of post‐ESD bleeding for gastric lesions are closely associated with the efficacy and safety of the operation. Many studies have reported the risks of and the preventative measures for hemorrhage after gastric ESD, but there remain some issues to be solved. We thus reviewed the risk factors, precautions and treatments for hemorrhage after ESD of gastric lesions.
Evaluation of long‐term detection trends of new psychoactive substances in pooled urine from city street portable urinals (London, UK)
Authors: Archer John R.H. , Mendes Fiona , Hudson Simon , Layne Kerry , Dargan Paul I. , Wood David M.
Published: February 2020

Aims

To evaluate the long‐term trends of new psychoactive substance (NPS) detection in pooled urine samples collected across a city centre.

Methods

Pooled urine samples from portable stand‐alone urinals were collected on a monthly basis over 5.5 years (July 2013–December 2018) across a city centre. These were analysed using a high‐performance liquid chromatography system, interfaced to a high‐resolution accurate mass spectrometer. Data were processed against a database containing over 2000 drugs/metabolites including over 800 NPS.

Results

In total, 44 NPS were detected with variation over time including cathinones (15, 34.1%), synthetic cannabinoids (8, 18.2%) and 21 (47.7%) other NPS. Since the introduction of the UK Psychoactive Substances Act (May 2016) cathinone detection has decreased with minimal detection over the last 4 months of the study. Synthetic cannabinoids were not detected on a regular basis until July 2016 with a subsequent variable detection frequency. There was a consistent, low level detection frequency of all other NPS throughout the study, but which appears to have increased alongside the decrease in cathinone detection.

Conclusion

Pooled urine analysis of samples taken from portable urinals in a city centre can be used as an effective monitoring tool to determine long‐term trends in the use of NPS. The results of this study demonstrate the impact of the Psychoactive Substances Act and reflect the findings of population surveys and clinical studies. Triangulation of these data with other data sources will enable greater insight into the NPS phenomenon.
The adoption of a social learning system: Intrinsic value in the UTAUT model
Authors: Khechine Hager , Raymond Benoit , Augier Marc
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study is to identify the determinants of the intention to use and the effective use of a learning management system that integrates social learning tools. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling techniques. As our theoretical lens, we adapted the original unified theory of acceptance and the use of technology model by extending it with intrinsic value construct. As such, this research allowed for the first time testing an extended version of the unified theory of acceptance and the use of technology model in a social learning context. Our results show that facilitating conditions and intrinsic value variables explained the behavioral intention to use a learning management system that integrates social media technology and that facilitating conditions variable predicted use behavior. Our research findings suggest fostering both students’ enjoyment and interest in using social learning technologies for education and offering them facilitating conditions to strengthen technology adoption.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Universities know that students are accustomed to use social media for personal purposes. Teachers are trying to integrate social media tools into learning management systems.

There is little knowledge about what makes students’ willing to use social media tools for learning.

The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology is an approved model that explains the intention to use and the effective use of technology.

What this paper adds

The paper identifies the determinants that make students’ willing to use a learning management system in which a social media tool is embedded.

Apart from the main determinants of the unified theory of acceptance and the use of technology model, intrinsic value—defined as the feeling of both enjoyment and interest from performing an activity—explains behavioral intention and use behavior toward social media systems.

Implications for practice and/or policy

The paper concludes with advices for decision makers in universities who want to integrate social learning tools in learning management systems:

They have to pay attention to not only the social media system’s functionalities, but also to how the system can be enjoyable and interesting to use.

They have to think about offering better facilitating conditions to students—like user manuals, an online FAQ, discussion forums, training sessions, or personal human support—to strengthen the adoption of social learning systems.
Effect of adding vildagliptin to insulin in haemodialysed patients with type 2 diabetes: The VILDDIAL study, a randomized, multicentre, prospective study
Authors: Munch Marion , Meyer Laurent , Hannedouche Thierry , Kunz Kristian , Alenabi Farideh , Winiszewski Patrice , Baltzinger Philippe , Smagala Agnès , Klein Alexandre , Dorey François , Fleury Dominique , Verier‐Mine Odile , Guerci Bruno , Cridlig Joëlle , Borot Sophie , Ducloux Didier , Meyer Nicolas , Hadjadj Samy , Chantrel François , Kessler Laurence
Published: February 2020

Aim

To evaluate the effect of adding the dipeptidyl‐peptidase‐4 inhibitor vildagliptin to insulin on the glycaemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing haemodialysis.

Methods

Overall, 65 insulin‐treated patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing haemodialysis (HbA1c: 7.3% ± 1.1%; age: 70.5 ± 8.5 years) were randomized (1:1) either to receive vildagliptin 50 mg/day in addition to insulin (vildagliptin‐insulin group) or to pursue their usual insulin regimen (insulin‐only group). Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was performed for 48 ± 6 hours at baseline and at week 12. The primary study endpoint was change from baseline in mean interstitial glucose using CGM. The secondary endpoints included other CGM variables and glucose control markers.

Results

After 12 weeks, a greater reduction in mean CGM glucose from baseline was observed in the vildagliptin‐insulin group compared with the insulin‐only group, although the between‐treatment difference was not statistically significant (mean difference [CI 95%]: −0.96 mmol/L [−2.09; 0.18] vs. ‐0.29 mmol/L [−1.29; 0.76], P = 0.32). However, a significant decrease from baseline in HbA1c, glycated albumin and insulin daily doses was observed in the vildagliptin‐insulin group versus the insulin‐only group (−0.6% [−1.19; −0.1], P < 0.01), in the vildagliptin‐insulin group versus no change in the insulin‐only group (−130.6 μmol/L [−271; 10.7] vs. +36.2 μmol/L [−164.4; 236.9], P = 0.04 and − 5.9 IU/day [−1.8; 7.1] vs. +1.1 IU/day [−14.5; 16.6], P = 0.01, respectively). There was no significant difference in the percentage of time spent in hypoglycaemia using CGM, occurrence of severe hypoglycaemia or number of adverse events.

Conclusion

In this study, vildagliptin added to insulin improved glycaemic control with an associated insulin‐sparing effect in patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing haemodialysis and was well tolerated.