bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low positive predictive value of International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes in relation to rheumatic heart disease: a challenge for global surveillance
Authors: Katzenellenbogen Judith M. , Nedkoff Lee , Cannon Jeffrey , Kruger Deborah , Pretty Filippa , Carapetis Jonathan R. , Dempsey Karen E. , De Dassel Jess , Anderson Mellise , de Klerk Nicholas , Hung Joseph
Published: March 2019

International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) include valvular heart disease of unspecified origin, limiting their usefulness for estimating RHD burden. A cross‐disciplinary national consultation developed an algorithm to improve RHD identification in hospital data. The algorithm has been operationalised and piloted. The algorithm developed categorised 32% of RHD‐coded patients as probable/possible RHD. We outline a series of research initiatives to improve identification of RHD in administrative data thereby contributing to monitoring the RHD burden globally.
Why do not all living kidney donor candidates proceed to donation?
Authors: Cash Ellie , Graver Alison , Kuo Stephanie , Kirkland Geoffrey , Hughes Peter , Robertson Amanda , Jose Matthew D.
Published: March 2019

There are national and international guidelines for donor workup and acceptance criteria of potential living kidney donor candidates (LKDC), but there is significant variation in clinical practice. We examined our local practice in assessing potential LKDC against current guidelines; nearly all of our accepted donors met these guidelines. LKDC who did not proceed to donation had an identified health issue (60%), the presence of risk factors for long‐term end‐stage kidney disease (17%), social (13%) or immunological reasons (7%).
Spasticity and dementia increase the risk of pressure ulcers
Authors: Jaul Efraim , Factor Hagai , Karni Sharon , Schiffmiller Tehilla , Meiron Oded
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to identify and characterise the association between the prevalence of pressure ulcers, spasticity levels, and advanced dementia in disable elderly patients. Data were obtained from the patient medical files. Patients were hospitalised in the geriatric skilled nursing department. A total of 40 frail elderly patients, bedbound and suffering from advanced chronic diseases, advanced dementia, and high‐grade pressure ulcers, were examined. Pressure ulcer grades and spasticity in advanced dementia versus non‐dementia patients were evaluated. Logistic regression indicated that only advanced dementia and spasticity were significantly associated with the development of pressure ulcers versus those without dementia or without spasticity. Patients with advanced dementia displayed a significantly higher prevalence of severe spasticity. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, spasticity was significantly associated with pressure ulcers. The strong association of spasticity with the onset of pressure ulcers in advanced dementia should encourage clinicians to implement preventative measures to delay the onset of pressure ulcers.
Ca2Na2La6(SiO4)4(PO4)2O: Eu2+/Eu3+: A visual dual‐emitting fluorescent ratiometric temperature sensor
Authors: Zhou Xufeng , Geng Wanying , Ding Jianyan , Zhao Zhengyan , Wang Yuhua
Published: March 2019

A novel apatite‐based UV‐excited dual‐emitting Ca2Na2La6(SiO4)4(PO4)2O: Eu2+/Eu3+ phosphor (CNL: Eu2+/Eu3+) was designed and successfully synthesized by a solid‐state reaction. Compared with previous reports on this family of materials, a structural study based on DFT calculation exhibited a new consequence that the monovalent ions in this system are more inclined to occupy the seven‐coordinate cationic sites rather than the nine‐coordinate sites. This result was confirmed by the structural refinement and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) data. Due to the coexistence of Eu2+ and Eu3+ dopants in the material, under 345 or 392 nm excitation, CNL: 0.02Eu2+/Eu3+ exhibited a green Eu2+ emission band (528 nm) and red Eu3+ emission peaks (around 618 nm). The application potential of CNL:0.02Eu2+/Eu3+ in luminescent thermometry was studied by exploiting the temperature sensitivity of the fluorescent intensity ratio (green/red) at different temperatures. It was found that, under 345 nm excitation, the fluorescent intensity ratio of CNL: 0.02Eu2+/Eu3+ displayed linear correlation over the temperature range of 298 to 473 K with a high sensitivity of 2.82%K−1. Additionally, the emission color of the CNL: 0.02Eu2+/Eu3+ sample under UV lamp (254 and 365 nm) excitation showed an obvious change (from green to red) as the temperature increased from 298 to 473 K (from green to red). These results indicated that CNL: Eu2+/Eu3+ can serve as an excellent visual luminescent ratiometric thermometer. Furthermore, this work provides a novel reference for developing high‐performance luminescence temperature‐sensing materials.
Tunable colors and applications of Dy3+/Eu3+ co‐doped CaO‐B2O3‐SiO2 glasses
Authors: Zhou Wenli , Wang Guanhua , Zheng Xingxing , Yu Liping , Zhang Jilin , Qiu Zhongxian , Lian Shixun
Published: March 2019

A series of Dy3+/Eu3+ single‐ and co‐doped calcium borosilicate luminescent glasses were prepared by the conventional high temperature melt‐quenching method. A compact glass structure is obtained by the addition of Dy3+/Eu3+ ions, which is verified by the physical properties of synthetic glasses. As network modifiers, Dy3+/Eu3+ fill in the interspaces of glass network and contribute to the conversion of [BO3] to [BO4]. Dy3+/Eu3+ co‐doped calcium borosilicate glasses can emit white light, which consists of blue, yellow, and red light under 387 nm excitation. The emission spectra and decay curves of the white‐emitting glasses have proved the existence of energy transfer. The average lifetime of Dy3+ decreases from 0.251 to 0.165 ms with the increasing Eu3+ concentration. Changing rare earth ions concentration, CIE color coordinates of Dy3+/Eu3+ co‐doped glass shifts from cyan to white with increasing excitation wavelength. A white‐light emission is obtained when the concentration of Dy3+ and Eu3+ equals to 4% and 2%, respectively. Moreover, the Dy3+/Eu3+ co‐doped calcium borosilicate glass shows high‐thermal stability and it may be applicable for high‐quality white LEDs based on high power near ultraviolet (n‐UV) LED chip in the future.
Mysm1 epigenetically regulates the immunomodulatory function of adipose‐derived stem cells in part by targeting miR‐150
Authors: Wang Yu‐Han , Huang Xiao‐Hui , Yang Yan‐Mei , He Youdi , Dong Xiao‐Hui , Yang Hui‐Xin , Zhang Lei , Wang Yan , Zhou Jin , Wang Changyong , Jiang Xiao‐Xia
Published: March 2019

Adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) are highly attractive for cell‐based therapies in tissue repair and regeneration because they have multilineage differentiation capacity and are immunosuppressive. However, the detailed epigenetic mechanisms of their immunoregulatory capacity are not fully defined. In this study, we found that Mysm1 was induced in ASCs treated with inflammatory cytokines. Adipose‐derived stem cells with Mysm1 knockdown exhibited attenuated immunosuppressive capacity, evidenced by less inhibition of T cell proliferation, more pro‐inflammatory factor secretion and less nitric oxide (NO) production in vitro. Mysm1‐deficient ASCs exacerbated inflammatory bowel diseases but inhibited tumour growth in vivo. Mysm1‐deficient ASCs also showed depressed miR‐150 expression. When transduced with Mysm1 overexpression lentivirus, ASCs exhibited enhanced miR‐150 expression. Furthermore, Mysm1‐deficient cells transduced with lentivirus containing miR‐150 mimics produced less pro‐inflammatory factors and more NO. Our study reveals a new role of Mysm1 in regulating the immunomodulatory activities of ASCs by targeting miR‐150. These novel insights into the mechanisms through which ASCs regulate immune reactions may lead to better clinical utility of these cells.
Difference in the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus according to gestational age at 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test in Japan: The Japan Assessment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Screening trial
Authors: Iwama Noriyuki , Sugiyama Takashi , Metoki Hirohito , Kusaka Hideto , Yaegashi Nobuo , Sagawa Norimasa , Hiramatsu Yuji , Toyoda Nagayasu ,   The JAGS Group
Published: March 2019

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the differences in the results of 75‐g oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) according to gestational age in Japan.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 2,578 pregnant women were divided into three categories based on their gestational age during the 75‐g OGTT: <14 weeks’ gestation, 14–23 weeks’ gestation and 24–32 weeks’ gestation. The association between gestational age and the results of the 75‐g OGTT were evaluated using multivariable analysis.

Results

Early gestational age was associated with high fasting plasma glucose levels at the time of the 75‐g OGTT, and low corresponding 1‐h and 2‐h plasma glucose levels. Compared with women with a gestational age of 24–32 weeks, women who had undergone the 75‐g OGTT at <14 weeks’ gestation had significantly higher odds of gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis based on the currently used criteria in Japan (adjusted odds ratio 1.42, 95% confidence interval 1.07–1.90).

Conclusions

The results of the 75‐g OGTT varied by gestational age. The use of the same 75‐g OGTT cut‐off values for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus, regardless of gestational age, might lead to increases in the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis in Japan.
The impact of airborne pollution on skin
Authors: Araviiskaia E. , Berardesca E. , Bieber T. , Gontijo G. , Sanchez Viera M. , Marrot L. , Chuberre B. , Dreno B.
Published: March 2019

Indoor and outdoor airborne pollutants modify our environment and represent a growing threat to human health worldwide. Airborne pollution effects on respiratory and cardiac health and diseases have been well established, but its impact on skin remains poorly described. Nonetheless, the skin is one of the main targets of pollutants, which reach the superficial and deeper skin layers by transcutaneous and systemic routes. In this review, we report the outcomes of basic and clinical research studies monitoring pollutant levels in human tissues including the skin and hair. We present a current understanding of the biochemical and biophysical effects of pollutants on skin metabolism, inflammatory processes and oxidative stress, with a focus on polyaromatic hydrocarbons and ground‐level ozone that are widespread outdoor pollutants whose effects are mostly studied. We reviewed the literature to report the clinical effects of pollutants on skin health and skin ageing and their impact on some chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We also discuss the potential interactions of airborne pollutants with either ultraviolet radiation or human skin microbiota and their specific impact on skin health.
Genetic diversity and population structure of the blue jack mackerel Trachurus picturatus across its western distribution
Authors: Moreira Cláudia , Correia Alberto T. , Vaz‐Pires Paulo , Froufe Elsa
Published: March 2019

Blue jack mackerel Trachurus picturatus collected at six sampling locations of the north‐east Atlantic Ocean (Azores, Madeira, Canaries, and Matosinhos, Peniche and Portimão, mainland Portugal) and one location in the Mediterranean (Sicily), were used to examine the genetic structure of this species. Three mitochondrial gene regions (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, cytochrome b and control region) were used to study the genetic structure of the species in Macaronesia, as well as to compare the genetic diversity of this region with published results from its eastern distribution. All markers indicated the absence of genetic structure among populations, with high indices of genetic diversity. These results suggest that the species went through a bottleneck event, followed by a recent population expansion. Moreover, the comparison with previously published results from the T. picturatus Mediterranean distribution suggests the existence of a single panmictic population throughout the species' full range. This was, however, an unexpected result since other methodologies have shown the presence of, at least, three different population‐units in the NE Atlantic Ocean.
Risk factors of early rebleeding in the endoscopic management of colonic diverticular bleeding
Authors: Honda Hirokazu , Ishii Naoki , Takasu Ayaka , Shiratori Yasutoshi , Omata Fumio
Published: March 2019

Background and Aim

The risk factors for early rebleeding following the management of colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB) are unclear. This study aimed to determine the risk factors for early rebleeding following initial colonoscopy.

Methods

Overall, 370 patients with CDB were divided as having presumptive (229) or definite CDB with stigmata of recent hemorrhage (141) on the basis of initial colonoscopy. Definite CDB cases were treated by either endoscopic clipping (EC) or endoscopic band ligation (EBL) as a first‐line treatment. Time‐to‐event analysis for early rebleeding was performed by Kaplan–Meier methods with log‐rank test between the three groups (presumptive, EC, and EBL). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify risk factors for early rebleeding.

Results

There were 38 and 103 patients in the EC and EBL groups, respectively. Early rebleeding developed in 61 cases (16.5%). The cumulative incidence rates of early rebleeding at 1, 5, and 30 days were 7.7%, 16.4%, and 17.9% in the presumptive group; 1.9%, 7.0%, and 9.5% in the EBL group; and 2.6%, 34.9%, and 37.7% in the EC group, respectively (log‐rank test, P = 0.00059). Moreover, 90.2% of early rebleeding occurred within 5 days. Adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was marginally lower in the presumptive group (HR = 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.26–1.01; P = 0.052) and significantly lower in the EBL‐treated group than in the EC group (HR = 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.09–0.50; P = 0.0004).

Conclusions

Most early rebleeding occurred within 5 days after initial colonoscopy. EC was less effective than EBL in terms of early rebleeding.
A Systematic Review of Physical Activity and Exercise on Physiological and Biochemical Outcomes in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Aljawarneh Yousef M. , Wardell Diane W. , Wood Geri L. , Rozmus Cathy L.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

In this systematic review we aimed to evaluate the effects of physical activity (PA) and exercise on biochemical and physiological outcomes in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Design

The review was conducted and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Methods

The search of literature was performed using PubMed, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Medline, PsycINFO, the Nursing Reference Center, and Google Scholar. The search was limited to include peer‐reviewed articles published in English from May 2012 to May 2018 and included adolescents <19 years of age with T1D. Twenty‐seven studies met the inclusion criteria: 8 interventional and 19 observational studies.

Findings

Both observational and interventional studies showed considerable agreement that supervised regular moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is more effective on adiposity and cardiorespiratory fitness than habitual PA. Further, it was reported that PA of different intensities improves insulin sensitivity and decreases daily insulin dosage. Results of glycemic control were equivocal. Although observational studies reported improvement in glycemic control with PA of different intensities, most of the experimental studies revealed no significant associations. A consistent agreement among the studies revealed a considerable benefit of regular habitual PA of light to moderate intensity on blood glucose regulation and lipid profile.

Conclusions

The reviewed studies showed that regular MVPA was associated with several health benefits in adolescents with T1D; however, additional studies are needed to fully understand the effect of PA on health outcomes.

Clinical Relevance

Regular MVPA (at least 4 hr per week) with good glycemic control is a promising option for adolescents with T1D when risk management of hypoglycemia is appropriately taken.
Safety and efficacy of tyrosinase inhibition of Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews extracts on human melanoma cells
Authors: Lin Daphne , Wang Sue‐Hong , Song Tuzz‐Ying , Hsieh Chang‐Wei , Tsai Ming‐Shiun
Published: March 2019

Introduction

The development of tyrosinase inhibitors is a hot research topic. Recently, the Chinese herb Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews, commonly named as Cortex Moutan (CM), was reported as being capable of reducing melanogenesis. We developed an A2058 human melanoma cell model to test the safety and efficacy of tyrosinase inhibition. The aim was to further clarify the bioactivities of CM extracts and paeonol for the purpose of skin whitening.

Methods

The 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, and in vitro tyrosinase inhibitory effects of water and ethanol CM extracts were determined. Cellular inhibitions of tyrosinase and melanin production were also evaluated.

Results

Water and ethanol CM extracts were both shown to have strong DPPH scavenging abilities in a dose‐dependent manner. The polyphenol content was higher in the ethanol CM extract compared to the water extract, while the flavanone content was comparable. Kinetic analyses revealed that the ethanol CM extract and paeonol are noncompetitive tyrosinase inhibitors. The cellular melanin content and l‐DOPA oxidation assays demonstrated that the ethanol CM extract was an appropriate alternative whitening agent to paeonol and arbutin in ultraviolet‐induced A2058 human melanoma cells.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that a human cell model is more suitable for determining tyrosinase activity than mouse cell models for determining cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin production. The ethanol CM extract was also confirmed as a promising ingredient in sun protection and skin whitening cosmetics. Future work should focus on melanogenesis‐related gene expressions.
A quantitative, objective method for evaluating the surgical outcomes of baggy eyelid correction using orbital gray scale analysis
Authors: Yang Seungkeol , Kim Bo Ri , Kim Hyung Su , Choi Chong Won , Jo Seong-Jin , Youn Sang Woong
Published: March 2019

Background

Baggy lower eyelids (BLEs) are a common cosmetic problem that is treated using various methods. However, validated objective methods for evaluating the treatment are limited.

Aims

A novel BLE correction procedure, transconjunctival fat resection, and subsequent fat grafting, was assessed using the orbital gray scale (OGS), a previously suggested objective measure for BLEs.

Methods

All patients were evaluated using both the tear trough rating scale (TTRS), a surgeon‐derived evaluation method, and OGS, an objective computer‐derived assessment. Changes throughout the surgery and their relationship to clinical characteristics, as well as the association between the two measurements, were statistically analyzed.

Results

A total of 50 patients who underwent surgery were analyzed. No major complications other than wrinkles were observed. All patients showed improvement in both the TTRS scores and OGS values (P < 0.05). Lateral OGS was improved to a greater extent in older patients (P < 0.05). Medial OGS change was associated with improvement of tear trough depression (P < 0.05). Lateral OGS change was related to decreased infraorbital fat herniation (P < 0.05). Total OGS change was related to improvement of both tear trough depression and fat prolapse (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The total OGS change was significantly associated with improvements in tear trough depression and fat bulging. Therefore, it could be a convenient objective evaluation measure for eyelid correction procedures.
Melatonin delays leaf senescence of Chinese flowering cabbage by suppressing ABFs‐mediated abscisic acid biosynthesis and chlorophyll degradation
Authors: Tan Xiao‐Li , Fan Zhong‐qi , Kuang Jian‐fei , Lu Wang‐jin , Reiter Russel J. , Lakshmanan Prakash , Su Xin‐guo , Zhou Jie , Chen Jian‐ye , Shan Wei
Published: March 2019

Melatonin and abscisic acid (ABA) play contrasting roles in regulating leaf senescence in plants. The molecular mechanism underlying the interaction between melatonin and ABA involved in leaf senescence, however, remains poorly defined. Herein, we found that exogenous application of melatonin delayed the senescence of Chinese flowering cabbage, accompanied by reduced expression of chlorophyll catabolic and ABA biosynthetic genes, and a lower endogenous ABA level. Significantly, three nucleus‐localized transcriptional activators BrABF1, BrABF4, and BrABI5 were identified, and their expressions were repressed by melatonin. In vitro and in vivo binding experiments revealed that BrABF1, BrABF4, and BrABI5 activated the transcription of a series of ABA biosynthetic and chlorophyll catabolic genes by physically binding to their promoters. Moreover, transient over‐expression of BrABF1, BrABF4, and BrABI5 in tobacco leaves induced ABA accumulation and promoted chlorophyll degradation by upregulating tobacco ABA biosynthetic and chlorophyll catabolic genes, resulting in the accelerated leaf senescence. These effects were significantly attenuated by melatonin treatment. Our findings suggest that melatonin‐mediated inhibition of leaf senescence involves suppression of ABFs‐mediated ABA biosynthesis and chlorophyll degradation. Unraveling of the molecular regulatory mechanism of leaf senescence controlled by ABA and melatonin expands our understanding of the regulation of this phenomenon and offers potentially more effective molecular breeding strategies for extending the shelf‐life of Chinese flowering cabbage.
Genetic toolkits of the red alga Pyropia tenera against the three most common diseases in Pyropia farms
Authors: Im Soo Hyun , Klochkova Tatyana A. , Lee Da Jeoung , Gachon Claire M. M. , Kim Gwang Hoon
Published: March 2019

Disease outbreaks devastate Pyropia aquaculture farms every year. The three most common and serious diseases are Olpidiopsis‐blight and red‐rot disease caused by oomycete pathogens and green‐spot disease caused by the PyroV1 virus. We hypothesized that a basic genetic profile of molecular defenses will be revealed by comparing and analyzing the genetic response of Pyropia tenera against the above three pathogens. RNAs isolated from infected thalli were hybridized onto an oligochip containing 15,115 primers designed from P. tenera expressed sequence tags (EST)s. Microarray profiles of the three diseases were compared and interpreted together with histochemical observation. Massive amounts of reactive oxygen species accumulated in P. tenera cells exposed to oomycete pathogens. Heat shock genes and serine proteases were the most highly up‐regulated genes in all infection experiments. Genes involved in RNA metabolism, ribosomal proteins and antioxidant metabolism were also highly up‐regulated. Genetic profiles of P. tenera in response to pathogens were most similar between the two biotrophic pathogens, Olpidiopsis pyropiae and PyroV1 virus. A group of plant resistance genes were specifically regulated against each pathogen. Our results suggested that disease response in P. tenera consists of a general constitutive defense and a genetic toolkit against specific pathogens.
Beyond “Heartless Conservative” and “Bleeding Heart Liberal” Caricatures: How Religiosity Shapes the Relationship Between Political Orientation and Empathy
Authors: Schieman Scott , Bierman Alex , Upenieks Laura
Published: March 2019

Is political orientation associated with self‐reported empathy? Popular caricatures frame political orientation in terms of the “heartless conservative” and the “bleeding heart liberal.” Yet, previous research has produced findings that present mixed evidence to support these caricatures. Using data from the 2004 General Social Survey, analyses show that the caricatures of the caring liberal and the cold‐hearted conservative are supported by results for empathy—in which conservatives have lower levels of empathy than liberals—but this pattern holds only when individuals also have low levels of religiosity. In the context of high religiosity, self‐identified conservatives do not have lower empathy than self‐identified liberals, net of a host of sociodemographic characteristics. Our observations demonstrate that patterns in empathy across political orientation are evident only when levels of different forms of religiosity are considered.
Fibrosis evolution in chronic hepatitis B e antigen‐negative patients across a 10‐year interval
Authors: Mak Lung‐Yi , Seto Wai‐Kay , Hui Rex Wan‐Hin , Fung James , Wong Danny Ka‐Ho , Lai Ching‐Lung , Yuen Man‐Fung
Published: March 2019

The degree of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection influences outcome and management. Existing data describing the long‐term dynamic changes of liver fibrosis are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the evolution of liver fibrosis in CHB across a 10‐year period. CHB patients with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography 10 years ago were recruited for follow‐up LSM. Fibrosis stages were classified according to EASL‐ALEH guidelines. Fibrosis progression/regression was arbitrarily defined as ≥1 fibrosis stage change from baseline. A total of 459 hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative patients (224 untreated, 235 treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues [NAs]) were recruited. The mean age at baseline LSM was 41.7 ± 9.0 years (56.2% male). Over 10 years, the proportion of patients with advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis significantly reduced from 16.3% to 5.7% (P < 0.001). Fibrosis progression and regression were observed in 8.7% and 37.5%, respectively. No treatment with NAs (OR 2.259, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.032‐4.945), metabolic syndrome (OR 4.379, 95% CI: 1.128‐16.999) and hepatic steatosis (OR 7.799, 95% CI: 2.271‐26.776) was associated with fibrosis progression. Liver stiffness decline demonstrated positive correlation with the time after HBsAg seroclearance (r = −0.50, P < 0.001). Median liver stiffness was higher both at baseline (14.0 vs 6 kPa, P < 0.001) and 10 years (9.1 vs 4.9 kPa, P < 0.001) in patients with cirrhosis‐related complications/hepatocellular carcinoma compared with those without. In conclusion, CHB‐related liver fibrosis changed dynamically across 10 years. Metabolic syndrome and hepatic steatosis were associated with fibrosis progression, while antiviral therapy was associated with fibrosis regression. Patients with HBsAg seroclearance demonstrated time‐dependent decline in liver stiffness.
Causes of death among persons diagnosed with hepatitis C infection in the pre‐ and post‐DAA era in England: A record linkage study
Authors: Simmons Ruth , Ireland Georgina , Ijaz Samreen , Ramsay Mary , Mandal Sema ,   on behalf of the National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne, Sexually Transmitted Infections
Published: March 2019

Through record linkage, we describe the causes of death among persons with diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in England. Persons ≥1 year with anti‐HCV/HCV‐PCR tests reported to PHE sentinel surveillance during 2002‐2016 were linked to death registrations from the Office for National Statistics during 2008‐2016. We found that 8.6% of the 204 265 with evidence of HCV during the study period died. Among them, external causes (accidental poisoning from drugs) and liver disease (end‐stage liver disease, liver cancer, hepatitis, alcohol‐ and non–alcohol‐related) were the leading underlying causes of death (18% and 34.5%, respectively); the latter increased to 49.2% if reported anywhere on the death certificate. Median age of death was lower in persons with evidence of HCV than the general population (53 years vs 81 years). A higher proportion of persons with HCV died of external causes, liver disease and HIV compared to the general population (P < 0.001). Potential impact of new HCV treatments was observed as a relative reduction in liver‐related deaths in 2016 compared with 2015. Recording of HCV as a contributory cause of death was 28.4% for all underlying causes, but 58.8% among the subgroup who died of liver disease. Data linkage between laboratory diagnosis and deaths data is an important tool for monitoring all‐cause mortality among those with HCV and quantifying under‐reporting of HCV in death registrations. Changes in mortality trends (causes and prematurity) in people with HCV can help evaluate the impact in the UK of HCV treatment scale‐up and other interventions to achieve HCV elimination.
Systematic analysis of the Myxococcus xanthus developmental gene regulatory network supports posttranslational regulation of FruA by C‐signaling
Authors: Saha Shreya , Patra Pintu , Igoshin Oleg , Kroos Lee
Published: March 2019

Upon starvation Myxococcus xanthus undergoes multicellular development. Rod‐shaped cells move into mounds in which some cells differentiate into spores. Cells begin committing to sporulation at 24–30 h poststarvation, but the mechanisms governing commitment are unknown. FruA and MrpC are transcription factors that are necessary for commitment. They bind cooperatively to promoter regions and activate developmental gene transcription, including that of the dev operon. Leading up to and during the commitment period, dev mRNA increased in wild type, but not in a mutant defective in C‐signaling, a short‐range signaling interaction between cells that is also necessary for commitment. The C‐signaling mutant exhibited ~20‐fold less dev mRNA than wild type at 30 h poststarvation, despite a similar level of MrpC and only 2‐fold less FruA. Boosting the FruA level twofold in the C‐signaling mutant had little effect on the dev mRNA level, and dev mRNA was not less stable in the C‐signaling mutant. Neither did high cooperativity of MrpC and FruA binding upstream of the dev promoter explain the data. Rather, our systematic experimental and computational analyses support a model in which C‐signaling activates FruA at least ninefold posttranslationally in order to commit a cell to spore formation.
Phlebotominae in peri‐domestic and forest environments inhabited by Alouatta caraya in northeastern Argentina
Authors: Martínez M. F. , Santini M. S. , Kowalewski M. M. , Salomón O. D.
Published: March 2019

Multiple species of Phlebotominae are vectors of Leishmania (Protozoa: Trypanosomatidae), which causes visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). To describe the Phlebotominae (Diptera: Psychodidae) related to the environments of black and gold howler monkeys Alouatta caraya (Humbodlt, 1812) (Primates: Atelidae), potential vectors were sampled in different landscapes and vertical strata of sleeping trees. Phlebotomine captured between December 2011 and March 2012 (2365 individuals) belonged to eight species, of which Nyssomyia neivai (Pinto, 1926) (61.4%) and Migonemyia migonei (França, 1920) (18.73%) were the most abundant, and Ny. withmani was recorded for the first time in the Chaco province. In the ‘peri‐domestic’ landscape, the phlebotomine were mainly captured in henhouses (78.7%), whereas the tree canopy in ‘rural’ and ‘wild’ landscapes yielded 31.2% and 29.1% of the phlebotomine, respectively. A significant association between the type of landscape and the species of phlebotomine was observed by multivariate analysis. Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lutz & Neiva, 1912) and Mg. migonei were associated with ‘peri‐domestic’ landscape, and Ny. neivai was associated with the ‘wild’ landscape. The results of this prospective study suggest that the interaction between phlebotomine and A. caraya could be a key factor with respect to understanding the epidemiology of leishmaniasis.
Assessment of floral colour signals at a community through the eyes of the birds and bees
Authors: Dyer Adrian G. , Shrestha Mani
Published: March 2019

This article is a Commentary on Camargo et al., 222: 1112–1122.
Understanding Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Douglas Karen M. , Uscinski Joseph E. , Sutton Robbie M. , Cichocka Aleksandra , Nefes Turkay , Ang Chee Siang , Deravi Farzin
Published: March 2019

Scholarly efforts to understand conspiracy theories have grown significantly in recent years, and there is now a broad and interdisciplinary literature. In reviewing this body of work, we ask three specific questions. First, what factors are associated with conspiracy beliefs? Our review of the literature shows that conspiracy beliefs result from a range of psychological, political, and social factors. Next, how are conspiracy theories communicated? Here, we explain how conspiracy theories are shared among individuals and spread through traditional and social media platforms. Next, what are the societal risks and rewards associated with conspiracy theories? By focusing on politics and science, we argue that conspiracy theories do more harm than good. We conclude by suggesting several promising avenues for future research.
Global Human Identification and Citizenship: A Review of Psychological Studies
Authors: McFarland Sam , Hackett Justin , Hamer Katarzyna , Katzarska‐Miller Iva , Malsch Anna , Reese Gerhard , Reysen Stephen
Published: March 2019

We review psychological research on global human identification and citizenship, Thomas Paine’s belief that “The world is my country, and all mankind are my brethren.” In turn, we review the theoretical foundations that guided our work, research with measures that preceded our own, and our own work with our correlated scales. We review its foundations, its effects upon attitudes and behaviors, and how it might be enlarged. Global human identification and citizenship is related negatively to ethnocentrism, authoritarianism, the social dominance orientation, and self‐centeredness, but positively to dispositional empathy and the values of universalism, care, and justice. It is expressed in attitudes and behaviors that support human rights and work to reduce global suffering and inequalities. It is associated with greater global knowledge and with efforts to acquire that knowledge. Childrearing that emphasizes cross‐cultural exposure and awareness of others’ suffering may promote global human identification and citizenship, as does education that encourages global mindedness. Environments that support global human identification also induce it, as does envisioning it as a moral ideal.
When the Name Matters: An Experimental Investigation of Ethnic Discrimination in the Finnish Labor Market
Authors: Ahmad Akhlaq
Published: March 2019

This article considers the possibilities and limits of human‐capital credentials in entering the labor market for immigrants in Finland. It reports findings of a correspondence study on how employers respond to job applicants of five different backgrounds who were otherwise equivalently matched on various demographic and human‐capital characteristics. The findings strongly indicate the continuing salience of ethnicity in securing employment opportunities in the Finnish labor market. Employers significantly prefer Finnish applicants over ethnic candidates, and within ethnic applicants, they prefer candidates with a European name over a non‐European name. They further show that locally acquired human capital provides a better payoff only when the job candidate belongs to a group that is placed higher on the ethnic preference ladder. Drawing on the empirical observations, the article thus suggests that a recruitment process driven by abstract or impersonal criteria and governed by mere considerations of human capital in real‐life situations is much less prevalent than often claimed.
Acting for good reasons: Integrating virtue theory and social cognitive theory
Authors: Ahrens Anthony H. , Cloutier David
Published: March 2019

One approach to well‐being focuses not on feelings or circumstances but on virtue, or engaging in the right action for the right reason in the right circumstances. Philosophers have experienced a surge of interest in virtue. In recent years, psychologists have followed suit. This paper briefly introduces virtue theory and recent work on virtue. Given the centrality of “right reason” for virtue, it is essential for virtue theorists to find a psychology that pays close attention to the reasons people have for taking action. We present social cognitive theory as one such psychology. We describe several specific research directions that social cognitive theory suggests for those interested in virtue as the best descriptor of well‐being.
Use and usefulness of the information systems measurement. A quality approach at the Mexican Northeastern Region
Authors: Medina-Quintero José Melchor , Ábrego-Almazán Demian , Ortiz-Rodríguez Fernando
Published: March 2019

Information technologies have transformed organizations; therefore, identifying their entrepreneurial value has been one of the main concerns for both, managers and researchers. The purpose of this research is to determine the influence of the information systems’ quality on user satisfaction and perceived benefits, and these in turn on the use/usefulness of such technologies in small and medium-sized enterprises of the Mexican northeastern region. Data are collected from 169 questionnaires and analyzed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) and Multi-Group Analysis. The results show that although the users feel satisfied with systems quality, it is not allowing them to make better use and usefulness of information systems. With the Multi-Group Analysis, a significant difference is detected between the relation of perceived benefits and system quality.
Efeitos do uso diagnóstico e interativo de medidas de avaliação de desempenho na ambiguidade de papéis e no empoderamento psicológico
Authors: Beuren Ilse Maria , Anzilago Marcielle , Dal Vesco Delci Grapégia
Published: March 2019

Este estudo analisa a associação do uso diagnóstico e interativo de medidas de avaliação de desempenho com a diminuição da ambiguidade de papéis e o aumento do empoderamento psicológico de gestores. Pesquisa de levantamento foi realizada em uma cooperativa agroindustrial, na qual 52 gestores responderam o questionário baseado no estudo de Marginson, McAulay, Roush e Van Zijl (2014). Os resultados da modelagem de equações estruturais mostram que o uso diagnóstico e interativo das medidas de avaliação de desempenho não está associado com empoderamento psicológico. Porém, se confirma que o desempenho gerencial dos gestores é afetado pela ambiguidade de papéis.
Clever math enables MRI to map biomolecules
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: March 2019

New techniques wring subtle signals from data already produced by scanners.
Activation of methane: A selective industrial route to methanesulfonic acid
Authors: Díaz-Urrutia Christian , Ott Timo
Published: March 2019

Methane oxidation on the plus side

Industrial conversion of methane to alcohol derivatives involves a circuitous route that starts with overoxidation to carbon monoxide. More direct approaches in highly acidic media have shown promise at small scale but are not cost-effective. Díaz-Urrutia and Ott describe a reaction at pilot-plant scale that combines methane and sulfur trioxide directly in sulfuric acid to form methanesulfonic acid with no by-products (see the Perspective by Schüth). The reaction appears to proceed via a cationic chain mechanism initiated by a low concentration of added sulfonyl peroxide and propagated by CH
3
+
.

Science
, this issue p.
1326
; see also p.
1282
Response to Comment on “Insulator-metal transition in dense fluid deuterium”
Authors: Celliers Peter M. , Millot Marius , Brygoo Stephanie , McWilliams R. Stewart , Fratanduono Dayne E. , Rygg J. Ryan , Goncharov Alexander F. , Loubeyre Paul , Eggert Jon H. , Peterson J. Luc , Meezan Nathan B. , Le Pape Sebastien , Collins Gilbert W. , Jeanloz Raymond , Hemley Russell J.
Published: March 2019

In their comment, Desjarlais
et al
. claim that a small temperature drop occurs after isentropic compression of fluid deuterium through the first-order insulator-metal transition. We show that their calculations do not correspond to the experimental thermodynamic path, and that thermodynamic integrations with parameters from first-principles calculations produce results in agreement with our original estimate of the temperature drop.
Stem cell–based options to preserve male fertility
Authors: Neuhaus Nina , Schlatt Stefan
Published: March 2019

Grafting of immature monkey testis tissue enables generation of sperm and offspring
Volcanic threats to global society
Authors: Papale Paolo , Marzocchi Warner
Published: March 2019

Resilience plans for globally impacting cataclysmic eruptions are needed
Making more from methane
Authors: Schüth Ferdi
Published: March 2019

Methanesulfonic acid, an industrially useful chemical, is made directly from methane
Implication of frontal sinus mucocele’s location and intrasinus septation
Authors: Devaraja K , Verma Hitesh , Kumar Rajeev
Published: March 2019

Mucocele of paranasal sinuses commonly affects frontal or frontoethmoidal air cells. With the evolution of endoscopic sinus surgery, the endoscopic marsupialisation has become the standard of care for these lesions. However, the external approach still has a role in selected cases of frontal sinus mucocele. The location of the mucocele and its communication with the natural outflow tract of the frontal sinus are some of the critical factors to be considered while choosing the surgical approach. We have discussed the management of three cases of frontal mucoceles having different locations and one of them having intervening septa. We emphasise that the successful management of far laterally located mucoceles and those with laterally situated septation require an external approach in conjunction with endoscopic marsupialisation.
Posterior axilla sling traction: a new technique for severe shoulder dystocia
Authors: Hoek Jeffrey , Verkouteren Babette , van Hamont Dennis
Published: March 2019

We describe a case of severe shoulder dystocia where, after failing of the known techniques, the posterior axilla sling traction technique was applied successfully. This technique was first described in 2009 by Hofmeyr and Cluver and must be considered at severe cases of shoulder dystocia where all other non-invasive techniques have failed.
Rare case of catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome with spontaneous intracranial haemorrhage
Authors: Adhikari Anju , Chisti Mohammad Muhsin , Bastola Sanjog , KC Ojbindra
Published: March 2019

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare but severe form of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The syndrome manifests itself as a rapidly progressive multiorgan failure that is believed to be caused by widespread micro-thrombosis. Seldom does bleeding comanifest with thrombosis. We present a patient with APS who presented with nausea, vomiting and fatigue, and rapidly progressed into multiorgan failure before being diagnosed with CAPS. The clinical course was complicated by an atraumatic intracranial haemorrhage which demanded discontinuation of anticoagulation. The patient was treated with high dose steroid, intravenous immunoglobulin, followed by weekly rituximab infusion. Although the trigger for CAPS was not obvious during her hospital stay, she was diagnosed with acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection soon after discharge. In this case report, we explore the differential diagnoses of CAPS, investigate the possibility of CMV infection as a potential trigger, present the therapeutic challenges of anticoagulation and discuss the emerging use of rituximab.
A case of severe rhabdomyolysis associated with secondary adrenal insufficiency and autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Kennedy Lisa , Nagiah Sureshkumar
Published: March 2019

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious and life-threatening condition which has many established causes including endocrine disturbances. Of those, thyroid, adrenal and pituitary deficiencies are the most commonly seen. Most cases of rhabdomyolysis with adrenal insufficiency that have been reported have been primary. Here, we report an encounter with a patient who presented with her second case of severe rhabdomyolysis in the setting of secondary adrenal insufficiency. The cause for corticotropic suppression was most likely autoimmune hypophysitis given the presence of other autoimmune comorbidities including a new diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. In addition to her case, we present a brief review of the literature pertaining to cases of rhabdomyolysis attributed to adrenal insufficiency.
Subacute knee pain and swelling in a healthy male: a case of Brodie’s abscess
Authors: Patel Mitesh K , Barrientos Steven , Gupta Sunny , Tucker Bradford
Published: March 2019

Osteomyelitis is an inflammatory process of the bone caused by an infection. The key to successful management is early recognition and treatment, as complications can arise if interventions are not done in a timely manner. Subacute or chronic osteomyelitis is associated with avascular necrosis of bone requiring surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy. Here, we describe a case illustrating an uncharacteristic presentation of knee pain ending with multiple surgical debridements in a healthy male.
Immunodeficiency associated with tumour pathology: Good’s syndrome
Authors: Barrios Recio Javier , Perez Rodriguez Alejandra , Callero Ariel , Martinez Tadeo Juan Antonio
Published: March 2019

The Good’s syndrome (GS) is a low prevalence entity where thymoma often is associated with immunodeficiency. Patients may start presenting recurrent rhinosinusal infections, bronchopulmonary infections, haematological alterations and diarrhoea, secondary to immunodeficiency. They can also present respiratory symptoms and parathymic syndromes derived from the existence of thymoma, a slow-growing neoplasm located in the anterior mediastinum. We present the case of a 76-year-old man diagnosed with thymoma by image analysis, which had presented multiple episodes of pneumonia and two admissions to the hospital for diarrhoea of weeks of evolution. After finishing the study, the patient is diagnosed of GS. In this case, thymectomy prevented the appearance of parathymic syndrome, but without any effect on immunodeficiency symptoms. To decrease repeat infections, substitution therapy with immunoglobulins was started. The prognosis will depend mainly on the recurrent infectious and to a lesser extent on the thymic neoplasm.
Intravenous leiomyomatosis manifesting as saddle embolism
Authors: Murphy Alexandra N , Byrne Danielle , Salati Umer , Lawler Leo
Published: March 2019

A 51-year-old, otherwise well woman, presented with progressive severe dyspnoea. CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) demonstrated a large filling defect within the right main pulmonary artery with evidence of right heart strain. She was anticoagulated and discharged home; however, was readmitted with progression of symptoms and hypotension within 1 month. Repeat CTPA demonstrated progression of the filling defect. Formal surgical thrombectomy was performed with removal of an unusual cream-coloured, rubber-like material. Histological analysis revealed intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL). IVL is a rare benign neoplasm, characterised by smooth muscle cell proliferation in vascular structures that can act aggressively. This case describes the workup, recognition and management of IVL.
Intrapancreatic accessory spleen: an enigmatic entity
Authors: Chavan Namita , Desai Gunjan Shailesh , Tampi Chandralekha , Wagle Prasad
Published: March 2019

Solitary hypervascular lesion in the distal body/tail of pancreas in a patient with non-specific abdominal symptoms is a diagnostic challenge. Neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN) and metastasis from renal cell carcinoma are the most common differentials and intrapancreatic accessory spleen (IPAS) is the rarest of its differential diagnosis. We present, here, a case of a 56-year-old man with a space-occupying lesion in body/tail of pancreas that was preoperatively diagnosed as a NEN based on elevated chromogranin levels and hyperenhancing lesion on contrast-enhanced CT scan. He underwent a spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy. The final histopathology revealed an IPAS.