bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and factors associated with disruptive behavior among Iranian students during 2015: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Araban Marzieh , Montazeri Ali , Stein L. A. R. , Karimy Mahmood , Mehrizi Ali Asghar Haeri
Published: June 2020

Background

Disruptive behavior can have lifetime consequences for youth. Prevention, early identification and treatment of disruptive behavior can improve outcomes for these youth. The purpose of the present study was to assess the prevalence of disruptive behavior among a sample of Iranian youth, and the relationship of disruptive behavior to other psychological phenomena that may be targeted for prevention, early identification and treatment.

Method

The sample consisted of 600 high school students (300 boys and 300 girls; ages 15 to 18 years old) selected through multi-stage random sampling in Saveh city, of Iran, in 2015. Questionnaires assessed several phenomena including demographics, life satisfaction, social support, depression, stress, smoking and hopefulness. The Disruptive Behavior Scale was also utilized. Univariate analyses were followed by multiple logistic regressions to examine relations among disruptive behavior and other constructs.

Results

Prevalence of disruptive behavior was 7.5%, in boys and 3.1%, in girls. Mean scores were 22.97 ± 1.17 for boys and 19.15 ± 1.06 for girls, with a significant difference between them (P < 0.05). The results of regression revealed low life satisfaction (OR = 3.75; 95% CI: (2.37–5.91), social support (OR = 0.72; 95% CI: (0.56–0.82) and hopefulness (OR = 0.85; 95% CI: (0.62–0.92); and smoking (OR = 3.65; 95% CI: (2.19–6.06), being male (OR = 2.55; 95% CI: (1.54–4.22), and higher stress (OR = 1.92; 95% CI: (1.60–2.91) and depression (OR = 2.76; 95% CI: (1.82–4.88) were significant factors in predicting disruptive behavior.

Conclusion

Disruptive behavior was associted with life satisfaction, smoking, being a boy, social support, hopefulness, stress, and depression. Targeting constructs (e.g., support, stress) associated with disruptive behavior may assist in prevention, early identification and treatment of problem behavior. For example, health promotion programs to increase hopefulness, satisfaction and support, and reduce stress, depression and smoking might be of importance for prevention and treatment of disruptive behavior.
Understanding and optimising patient and public involvement in trial oversight: an ethnographic study of eight clinical trials
Authors: Coulman K. D. , Nicholson A. , Shaw A. , Daykin A. , Selman L. E. , Macefield R. , Shorter G. W. , Cramer H. , Sydes M. R. , Gamble C. , Pick M. E. , Taylor G. , Lane J. A.
Published: June 2020

Background

Trial oversight is important for trial governance and conduct. Patients and/or lay members of the public are increasingly included in trial oversight committees, influenced by international patient and public involvement (PPI) initiatives to improve the quality and relevance of research. However, there is a lack of guidance on how to undertake PPI in trial oversight and tokenistic PPI remains an issue. This paper explores how PPI functions in existing trial oversight committees and provides recommendations to optimise PPI in future trials. This was part of a larger study investigating the role and function of oversight committees in trials facing challenges.

Methods

Using an ethnographic study design, we observed oversight meetings of eight UK trials and conducted semi-structured interviews with members of their trial steering committees (TSCs) and trial management groups (TMGs) including public contributors, trial sponsors and funders. Thematic analysis of data was undertaken, with findings integrated to provide a multi-perspective account of how PPI functions in trial oversight.

Results

Eight TSC and six TMG meetings from eight trials were observed, and 66 semi-structured interviews conducted with 52 purposively sampled oversight group members, including three public contributors. PPI was reported as beneficial in trial oversight, with public members contributing a patient voice and fulfilling a patient advocacy role. However, public contributors were not always active at oversight meetings and were sometimes felt to have a tokenistic role, with trialists reporting a lack of understanding of how to undertake PPI in trial oversight. To optimise PPI in trial oversight, the following areas were highlighted: the importance of planning effective strategies to recruit public contributors; considering the level of oversight and stage(s) of trial to include PPI; support for public contributors by the trial team between and during oversight meetings.

Conclusions

We present evidence-based recommendations to inform future PPI in trial oversight. Consideration should be given at trial design stage on how to recruit and involve public contributors within trial oversight, as well as support and mentorship for both public contributors and trialists (in how to undertake PPI effectively). Findings from this study further strengthen the evidence base on facilitating meaningful PPI within clinical trials.
Neutrophil activation identifies patients with active polyarticular gout
Authors: Vedder D. , Gerritsen M. , Duvvuri B. , van Vollenhoven R. F. , Nurmohamed M. T. , Lood C.
Published: June 2020

Background

Gout is the most prevalent inflammatory arthritis in developed countries. A gout flare is mediated by phagocytosis of monosodium urate crystals by macrophages and neutrophils leading to subsequent activation of neutrophils contributing to synovitis, local joint destruction, and systemic inflammation. We hypothesize that biomarkers from activated neutrophils reflect gout disease activity.

The objective of this study therefore was to investigate the clinical utility of neutrophil-derived biomarkers in gout disease activity.

Methods

Plasma samples from 75 gout patients participating in the “Reade gout cohort Amsterdam” were compared with 30 healthy controls (HC). Levels of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and neutrophil activation markers (calprotectin and peroxidase activity) were analyzed by ELISA and fluorimetry, compared to healthy controls, and related to markers of inflammation and disease activity.

Results

Levels of NETs, as well as neutrophil activation markers, were increased in gout patients compared to HC (p < 0.01). No associations were found between markers of cell death (cell-free DNA and NETs) and disease activity. Cell-free levels of genomic DNA were elevated among gout patients compared to HC (p < 0.05) and related to the number of gout attacks in the last year (β = 0.35, p < 0.01). Peroxidase activity correlated with disease activity (RAPID score: β = 0.49, p < 0.01, MHAQ: β = 0.66, p < 0.01) and inflammation markers (CRP: β = 0.25, p = 0.04, and ESR: β = 0.57, p < 0.001). Involvement of ankle or wrist resulted in significant higher peroxidase levels compared to mono-articular disease (β = 0.34, p < 0.01), indicating that peroxidase activity is a marker of poly-articular gout. Calprotectin (S100A8/A9) correlated with the inflammation marker CRP (β = 0.23, p = 0.05) and morning stiffness, especially in patients with chronic poly-articular gout (β = 0.71, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Neutrophil activation markers are associated with characteristics of active, polyarticular gout. Furthermore, NETs are present in the peripheral blood of gout patients. However, NETs do not associate with markers of disease activity or inflammation. Future research should point out if peroxidase and calprotectin could be used in clinical practice as biomarkers for monitoring gout disease activity.
Immunoglobulin G from bovine milk primes intestinal epithelial cells for increased colonization of bifidobacteria
Authors: Morrin Sinead T. , McCarthy Geoffrey , Kennedy Deirdre , Marotta Mariarosaria , Irwin Jane A. , Hickey Rita M.
Published: June 2020

A bovine colostrum fraction (BCF) was recently shown to enhance the adherence of several commensal organisms to intestinal epithelial cells through modulating the epithelial cell surface. In this study, the main components of the BCF were examined to investigate the active component/s responsible for driving the changes in the intestinal cells. The adherence of various bifidobacteria to HT-29 cells was increased when the intestinal cells were pre-incubated with immunoglobulin G (IgG). Modulation of the intestinal cells by IgG was concentration dependent with 16 mg/mL IgG resulting in a 43-fold increase in the adhesion of Bifidobacterium longum NCIMB 8809 to HT-29 cells. Periodate treatment of colostral IgG prior to performing the colonization studies resulted in a reduction in the adhesion of the strain to the intestinal cells demonstrating that the glycans of IgG may be important in modulating the intestinal cells for enhanced commensal adhesion. IgG isolated from mature milk also resulted in significant increases in adhesion of the Bifidobacterium strains tested albeit at reduced levels (3.9-fold). The impact of IgG on the HT-29 cells was also visualised via scanning electron microscopy. This study builds a strong case for the inclusion of IgG ingredients sourced from cow’s milk in functional foods aimed at increasing numbers of health promoting bacteria in the human gut.
An advanced low-complexity decoding algorithm for turbo product codes based on the syndrome
Authors: Yoon Sungsik , Ahn Byungkyu , Heo Jun
Published: June 2020

This paper introduces two effective techniques to reduce the decoding complexity of turbo product codes (TPC) that use extended Hamming codes as component codes. We first propose an advanced hard-input soft-output (HISO) decoding algorithm, which is applicable if an estimated syndrome stands for double-error. In conventional soft-input soft-output (SISO) decoding algorithms, 2p(p: the number of least reliable bits) number of hard decision decoding (HDD) operations are performed to correct errors. However, only a single HDD is required in the proposed algorithm. Therefore, it is able to lower the decoding complexity. In addition, we propose an early termination technique for undecodable blocks. The proposed early termination is based on the difference in the ratios of double-error syndrome detection between two consecutive half-iterations. Through this early termination, the average iteration number is effectively lowered, which also leads to reducing the overall decoding complexity. Simulation results show that the computational complexity of TPC decoding is significantly reduced via the proposed techniques, and the error correction performance remains nearly the same in comparison with that of conventional methods.
Some new integral inequalities of Wendorff type for discontinuous functions with integral jump conditions
Authors: Xing Lihong , Qiu Donghua , Zheng Zhaowen
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we investigate some new integral inequalities of Wendorff type for discontinuous functions with two independent variables and integral jump conditions. These integral inequalities with discontinuities are of non-Lipschitz type. New lower bounds are obtained, integral inequalities with retardation are also involved.
Comparing data sources in estimating disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for ischemic heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a cross-sectional setting in Finland
Authors: Paalanen Laura , Reinikainen Jaakko , Härkänen Tommi , Mattila Tiina , Laatikainen Tiina , Jousilahti Pekka , Tolonen Hanna
Published: June 2020

Background

The disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) summarize the burden of years of life lost (YLL) due to premature mortality and years lost due to disability (YLD). Our aim was to estimate the burden of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Finland in 2012, and to examine, how much the YLD are affected by the use of different data sources.

Methods

The YLL were calculated using mortality data for the Finnish 25–74-year-old population in 2012. The YLD were calculated using data from the FINRISK 2012 survey (3041 males, 3383 females aged 25–74 years) and then directly adjusted to the corresponding population. Different administrative registers on 1) hospital inpatient episodes and specialist outpatient visits, 2) entitlement to specially reimbursed medicines, and 3) purchases of prescribed medicines were used for estimation of the YLD in addition to self-reported data. The DALYs were calculated without age-weighting.

Results

The YLL for IHD were 37.5 for males and 9.1 for females per 1000 population among 25–74-year-old people in Finland in 2012. The YLD for IHD varied markedly depending on which data sources were used. All data sources combined, the YLD per 1000 were 5.3 for males and 2.5 for females resulting in estimated 42.8 and 11.6 DALYs per 1000 due to IHD among males and females, respectively. For COPD, the YLL were 4.7 for males and 2.0 for females per 1000. Also for COPD, the YLD varied markedly depending on data sources used. The YLD per 1000 based on all data sources combined were 2.0 for males and 1.6 for females. As a result, estimated 6.7 and 3.6 DALYs per 1000 were due to COPD among males and females, respectively.

Conclusions

Especially for COPD, all mild disease cases could probably not be identified from the included registers. Thereby, including survey data improved the coverage of the data. The YLD of IHD and COPD varied markedly between the data sources used in the calculations. However, as YLL constituted a major part of DALYs for these diseases, the variation in YLD did not lead to substantial variation in DALYs.
Upregulation of RIN3 induces endosomal dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Shen Ruinan , Zhao Xiaobei , He Lu , Ding Yongbo , Xu Wei , Lin Suzhen , Fang Savannah , Yang Wanlin , Sung Kijung , Spencer Brian , Rissman Robert A. , Lei Ming , Ding Jianqing , Wu Chengbiao
Published: June 2020

Background

In Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), about one-third of the risk genes identified by GWAS encode proteins that function predominantly in the endocytic pathways. Among them, the Ras and Rab Interactor 3(RIN3) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for the Rab5 small GTPase family and has been implicated to be a risk factor for both late onset AD (LOAD) and sporadic early onset AD (sEOAD). However, how RIN3 is linked to AD pathogenesis is currently undefined.

Methods

Quantitative PCR and immunoblotting were used to measure the RIN3 expression level in mouse brain tissues and cultured basal forebrain cholinergic neuron (BFCNs). Immunostaining was used to define subcellular localization of RIN3 and to visualize endosomal changes in cultured primary BFCNs and PC12 cells. Recombinant flag-tagged RIN3 protein was purified from HEK293T cells and was used to define RIN3-interactomes by mass spectrometry. RIN3-interacting partners were validated by co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence and yeast two hybrid assays. Live imaging of primary neurons was used to examine axonal transport of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and β-secretase 1 (BACE1). Immunoblotting was used to detect protein expression, processing of APP and phosphorylated forms of Tau.

Results

We have shown that RIN3 mRNA level was significantly increased in the hippocampus and cortex of APP/PS1 mouse brain. Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) cultured from E18 APP/PS1 mouse embryos also showed increased RIN3 expression accompanied by early endosome enlargement. In addition, via its proline rich domain, RIN3 recruited BIN1(bridging integrator 1) and CD2AP (CD2 associated protein), two other AD risk factors, to early endosomes. Interestingly, overexpression of RIN3 or CD2AP promoted APP cleavage to increase its carboxyl terminal fragments (CTFs) in PC12 cells. Upregulation of RIN3 or the neuronal isoform of BIN1 increased phosphorylated Tau level. Therefore, upregulation of RIN3 expression promoted accumulation of APP CTFs and increased phosphorylated Tau. These effects by RIN3 was rescued by the expression of a dominant negative Rab5 (Rab5S34N) construct. Our study has thus pointed to that RIN3 acts through Rab5 to impact endosomal trafficking and signaling.

Conclusion

RIN3 is significantly upregulated and correlated with endosomal dysfunction in APP/PS1 mouse. Through interacting with BIN1 and CD2AP, increased RIN3 expression alters axonal trafficking and procession of APP. Together with our previous studies, our current work has thus provided important insights into the role of RIN3 in regulating endosomal signaling and trafficking.
Adenocarcinoma arising from a heterotopic pancreas in the first portion of the duodenum: a case report
Authors: Minami Teruya , Terada Takuro , Mitsui Takeshi , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: June 2020

Background

Heterotopic pancreas (HP) is defined as pancreatic tissue in organs with no anatomical continuity with the orthotopic pancreas. Based on the number of cases reported in the literature between the year 2000 and 2020, HP is rarely found causing malignant transformation of the duodenum. We herein report a case of adenocarcinoma arising from the HP in the first portion of the duodenum.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old Japanese man presented to our hospital with epigastric pain. Despite having undergone laparoscopic surgery for early sigmoid colon cancer a month earlier, serum levels of tumor-specific antigens, such as CA19-9, were elevated. After undergoing a series of radiologic examinations, the first portion of the duodenum was found thickened. However, a biopsy of the lesion showed no malignancy. Four months later, follow-up computed tomography (CT) scans showed that the lesion was thicker and involved the gastroduodenal artery (GDA), suggesting tumor invasion. A new biopsy did not detect the malignancy. However, serum tumor-specific antigen levels increased, especially duke pancreatic monoclonal antigen type 2 (5287 U/mL), in the absence of tumor in the orthotopic pancreas. The follow-up CT imaging showed a malignant tumor in the first portion of the duodenum. Five months later, we performed a subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (SSPPD) for duodenal or HP cancer in the first portion of the duodenum, finding a lesion from the pyloric bulbs to the first portion of the duodenum, which invaded the adjacent pancreas and GDA. The pathological examination of the specimens revealed adenocarcinoma arising from HP. Nine months after surgery, no recurrence was found by radiologic imaging or tumor-specific antigen laboratory testing.

Conclusions

HP adenocarcinoma is rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively due to its submucosal location. Therefore, a careful follow-up with blood testing and radiologic imaging, as well as diagnostic surgery, is recommended.
Intravenous and oral copper kinetics, biodistribution and dosimetry in healthy humans studied by [64Cu]copper PET/CT
Authors: Kjærgaard Kristoffer , Sandahl Thomas Damgaard , Frisch Kim , Vase Karina Højrup , Keiding Susanne , Vilstrup Hendrik , Ott Peter , Gormsen Lars Christian , Munk Ole Lajord
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Copper is essential for enzymatic processes throughout the body. [64Cu]copper (64Cu) positron emission tomography (PET) has been investigated as a diagnostic tool for certain malignancies, but has not yet been used to study copper homeostasis in humans. In this study, we determined the hepatic removal kinetics, biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of 64Cu in healthy humans by both intravenous and oral administration.

Methods

Six healthy participants underwent PET/CT studies with intravenous or oral administration of 64Cu. A 90 min dynamic PET/CT scan of the liver was followed by three whole-body PET/CT scans at 1.5, 6, and 20 h after tracer administration. PET data were used for estimation of hepatic kinetics, biodistribution, effective doses, and absorbed doses for critical organs.

Results

After intravenous administration, 64Cu uptake was highest in the liver, intestinal walls and pancreas; the gender-averaged effective dose was 62 ± 5 μSv/MBq (mean ± SD). After oral administration, 64Cu was almost exclusively taken up by the liver while leaving a significant amount of radiotracer in the gastrointestinal lumen, resulting in an effective dose of 113 ± 1 μSv/MBq. Excretion of 64Cu in urine and faeces after intravenous administration was negligible. Hepatic removal kinetics showed that the clearance of 64Cu from blood was 0.10 ± 0.02 mL blood/min/mL liver tissue, and the rate constant for excretion into bile or blood was 0.003 ± 0.002 min− 1.

Conclusion

64Cu biodistribution and radiation dosimetry are influenced by the manner of tracer administration with high uptake by the liver, intestinal walls, and pancreas after intravenous administration, while after oral administration, 64Cu is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and deposited primarily in the liver. Administration of 50 MBq 64Cu yielded images of high quality for both administration forms with radiation doses of approximately 3.1 and 5.7 mSv, respectively, allowing for sequential studies in humans.

Trial registration number

EudraCT no. 2016–001975-59. Registration date: 19/09/2016.
Evaluative and enabling infrastructures: supporting the ability of urban co-production processes to contribute to societal change
Authors: Palmer Henrietta , Polk Merritt , Simon David , Hansson Stina
Published: June 2020

As widely attested in the literature, the evaluation of co-production is complex and unsuited to the use of conventional quality, monitoring and evaluation indicators. This reflects the uncertainties, co-contributory factors and time lags involved, particularly when seeking to assess institutional and wider societal effects of multi-stakeholder participatory processes and deliberative fora. The most widely assessed effects include the immediate outputs and outcomes of a project or activity (so-called first order effects) while wider societal or third order effects continue to be the most difficult to capture and, consequently, are the least well studied. Because of this difficulty, the intermediate, second order effects of organisational transformation and policy implementation constitute a growing challenge for evaluation. This is our focus here. After 10 years of transdisciplinary co-productive research practice, Mistra Urban Futures, as an interstitial research space bridging academia and practice working through city-based institutional partnerships called platforms, has reached a phase where some of these effects are becoming distinguishable. Accordingly, we discuss the prerequisites for co-production practitioners, including policy makers, to engage their respective organisations in transitional and incremental experimentation in order to achieve relevant institutional changes. This requires enabling infrastructures that support training, facilitation and the creation of ‘safe’ spaces to promote trust and legitimacy. These are needed to underpin the long-lasting personal and organisational commitments which are crucial to achieve transformative organisational effects.
An overview of gambling in Nigeria
Authors: Aguocha Chinyere Mirian , George Sanju
Published: June 2020

Gambling, legal and illegal, is popular in Nigeria. Lack of stringent regulation and enforcement, coupled with the rise in online gambling opportunities, has resulted in increased gambling-related harm. There needs to be a multipronged public health strategy to address the harms of gambling and for this the government, gambling industry, policy makers and academic experts need to engage in a meaningful debate.
Patient-Level Factors Associated With Lack of Health Care Provider Recommendation for the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Among Young Cancer Survivors
Authors: York Jocelyn M. , Klosky James L. , Chen Yanjun , Connelly James A. , Wasilewski-Masker Karen , Giuliano Anna R. , Robison Leslie L. , Wong F. Lennie , Hudson Melissa M. , Bhatia Smita , Landier Wendy
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE

Young cancer survivors are at increased risk for morbidities related to infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), yet their HPV vaccine initiation rates remain low. Patient-/parent-reported lack of health care provider recommendation for HPV vaccination is strongly associated with vaccine noninitiation. We aimed to identify patient-level factors associated with survivor-/parent-reported lack of provider recommendation for HPV vaccination among young cancer survivors.

METHODS

Cancer survivors ages 9-26 years and 1-5 years off therapy completed a cross-sectional survey (parent-completed for survivors 9-17 years of age). Lack of health care provider HPV vaccine recommendation was the outcome of interest in a multivariable logistic regression model that included relevant patient-level sociodemographic, clinical, and vaccine-related variables.

RESULTS

Of 955 survivors, 54% were male, 66% were non-Hispanic White, and 36% had leukemia. At survey participation, survivors were an average age (± standard deviation) of 16.3 ± 4.7 years and 32.8 ± 14.7 months off therapy. Lack of provider HPV vaccine recommendation was reported by 73% (95% CI, 70% to 75%) of survivors. For the entire cohort, patient-level factors associated with lack of reported provider recommendation included perceived lack of insurance coverage for the HPV vaccine (odds ratio [OR], 4.0; 95% CI, 2.7 to 5.9; P < .001), male sex (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.9 to 4.0; P < .001), and decreased parent-survivor communication regarding HPV vaccination (OR, 1.7 per unit decrease in score; 95% CI, 1.3 to 2.2; P < .001). In the sex- and age-stratified models, perceived lack of insurance coverage (all models) and male sex (age-stratified models) were also significantly associated with lack of reported provider recommendation.

CONCLUSION

We identified factors characterizing survivors at risk for not reporting receipt of a health care provider HPV vaccine recommendation. Future research is needed to develop interventions that facilitate effective provider recommendations for HPV vaccination among all young cancer survivors.
The Role of GnRH Receptor Autoantibodies in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Kem David C , Li Hongliang , Yu Xichun , Weedin Elizabeth , Reynolds Anna C , Forsythe Elizabeth , Beel Marci , Fischer Hayley , Hines Brendon , Guo Yankai , Deng Jielin , Liles Jonathan T , Nuss Zachary , Elkosseifi Myriam , Aston Christopher E , Burks Heather R , Craig LaTasha B
Published: June 2020

Objective

Is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) associated with activating autoantibodies (AAb) to the second extracellular loop (ECL2) of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR)?

Design and Methods

We retrospectively screened sera from 40 patients with PCOS and 14 normal controls (NCs) with regular menses using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the presence of GnRHR-ECL2-AAb. We obtained similar data from 40 non-PCOS ovulatory but infertile patients as a control group (OIC) of interest. We analyzed GnRHR-ECL2-AAb activity in purified immunoglobulin (Ig)G using a cell-based GnRHR bioassay.

Results

The mean ELISA value in the PCOS group was markedly higher than the NC (P = .000036) and the OIC (P = .0028) groups. IgG from a sample of 5 PCOS subjects, in contrast to a sample of 5 OIC subjects, demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in GnRHR-stimulating activity qualitatively similar to the acute action of the natural ligand GnRH and the synthetic agonist leuprolide. The GnRHR antagonist cetrorelix significantly suppressed (P < .01) the elevated GnRHR activity induced by IgG from 7 PCOS patients while the IgG activity level from 7 OIC subjects was unchanged. Five other OIC subjects had relatively high ELISA values at or above the 95% confidence limits. On further study, 3 had normal or low activity while 2 had elevated IgG-induced GnRHR activity. One suppressed with cetrorelix while the other did not. The copresence of PCOS IgG increased the responsiveness to GnRH and shifted the dosage response curve to the left (P < .01).

Conclusions

GnRHR-ECL2-AAb are significantly elevated in patients with PCOS compared with NCs. Their presence raises important etiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic implications.
Development and function of smooth muscle cells is modulated by Hic1 in mouse testis
Authors: Uchida Aya , Sakib Sadman , Labit Elodie , Abbasi Sepideh , Scott Wilder , Underhill Michael , Biernaskie Jeff , Dobrinski Ina
Published: June 2020

In mammalian testis, contractile peritubular myoid cells (PMCs) regulate the transport of sperm and luminal fluid, while secreting growth factors and extra-cellular matrix (ECM) proteins to support the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche. However, little is known about the role of testicular smooth muscle cells during the postnatal testicular development. Here we report age-dependent expression of Hypermethylated in cancer 1 (Hic1, ZBTB29) in testicular smooth muscle cells, including PMCs and vascular smooth muscle cells in mouse. Postnatal deletion of Hic1 in smooth muscle cells led to their increased proliferation and resulted in dilation of seminiferous tubules with increased numbers of PMC. These seminiferous tubules contained fewer Sertoli cells and more spermatogonia, and fibronectin was not detected in their basement membrane. The expression levels of genes encoding smooth muscle contractile proteins, Acta2 and Cnn1, were down regulated in the smooth muscle cells lacking Hic1, and the seminiferous tubules appeared to have reduced contractility. These data imply a role for Hic1 in determining the size of seminiferous tubules by regulating postnatal smooth muscle cell proliferation, subsequently affecting spermatogenesis at adulthood.
Disruption of the nectin-afadin complex recapitulates features of the human cleft lip/palate syndrome CLPED1
Authors: Lough Kendall J. , Spitzer Danielle C. , Bergman Abby J. , Wu Jessica J. , Byrd Kevin M. , Williams Scott E.
Published: June 2020

Cleft palate (CP), one of the most common congenital diseases, arises from failures in secondary palatogenesis during embryonic development. Several human genetic syndromes featuring CP and ectodermal dysplasia have been linked to mutations in genes regulating cell-cell adhesion, yet mouse models have largely failed to recapitulate these findings. Here, we utilize in utero lentiviral-mediated genetic approaches in mice to provide the first direct evidence that the nectin-afadin axis is essential for proper palate shelf elevation and fusion. Using this technique, we demonstrate that palatal epithelial conditional loss of afadin (Afdn)—an obligate nectin- and actin-binding protein—induces a high penetrance of CP, not observed when Afdn is targeted later using Krt14-Cre. We implicate Nectin1 and Nectin4 as critical players, since loss of either induces a low penetrance of mild palate closure defects, while loss of both causes severe CP with a frequency similar to Afdn loss. Finally, expression of the human disease mutant NECTIN1W185X causes CP with greater penetrance than Nectin1 loss, suggesting this alteration may drive CP via a dominant interfering mechanism.
Simultaneous Ipsilateral Vascularized Lymph Node Transplantation and Contralateral Lymphovenous Anastomosis in Bilateral Extremity Lymphedema with Different Severities
Authors: Cheng M.-H. , Tee R. , Chen C. , Lin C.-Y. , Pappalardo M.
Published: June 2020

Background

Extremity lymphedema can occur bilaterally with different severities on each side. The aim of this study is to investigate the treatment outcomes of such patients with bilateral extremity lymphedema of different severities.

Patients and Methods

Between 2013 and 2017, patients with bilateral extremity lymphedema of different severities according to the Taiwan Lymphoscintigraphy Staging (TLS) system were retrospectively reviewed. Ipsilateral vascularized lymph node transplantation (VLNT) was indicated in TLS total obstruction and contralateral lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) in TLS partial obstruction with patent lymphatic vessels on indocyanine green lymphography. Outcomes were assessed using circumference improvement, frequency of cellulitis, and lymphedema-specific quality of life (LYMQoL) questionnaires.

Results

A total of 10 patients with bilateral extremity lymphedema with median age of 63 (range 12–75) years were included. The median symptom duration of the lymphedematous limb was 60 (range 36–168) months and 12 (range 1–60) months in the VLNT and LVA group, respectively (p < 0.05). At average follow-up of 37.5 (range 14–58) months, the average limb circumference improvement was 2.4 (range − 3.3 to 7.8) cm in the VLNT group and 2.3 (range 0.3–7) cm in the LVA group (p = 1). The median episodes of cellulitis decreased significantly from 4 to 0.5 and 1 to 0 times/year in the VLNT and LVA group, respectively (p = 0.02,p = 0.06). The overall LYMQoL score improved from 4.5 preoperatively to 7.5 postoperatively (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Limb-specific VLNT and LVA selected by TLS effectively treated bilateral extremity lymphedema with different severities.
l-Citrulline Supports Vascular and Muscular Benefits of Exercise Training in Older Adults
Authors: Figueroa Arturo , Jaime Salvador J. , Morita Masahiko , Gonzales Joaquin U. , Moinard Christophe
Published: June 2020

Age-associated reduction in endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthesis contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases and sarcopenia. l-Citrulline is a precursor of NO with the ability to improve vascular function and muscle protein synthesis. We hypothesize that vascular and muscular benefits associated with oral l-citrulline supplementation might be augmented by concomitant supplementation with exercise training in older adults.
Clinical Application of CT Navigation in treatment of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis with Minimally Invasive Surgery - Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Sui Ru-de , Wang Chun-guo , Zhang Jin-cai , Wang Hai-tao
Published: June 2020

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of the application of CT navigation in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis with minimally invasive surgery - transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF).

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 30 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis who were continuously treated in linyi central hospital from May 2018 to March 2019.The patients were divided into two groups,15 patients treated with MIS-TLIF with the aid of CT navigation during the operation were included into an observation group. Another 15 patients were treated with open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion as the control group. The baseline information, including gender, age and course of disease, perioperative period and imaging conditions, and VAS and ODI scores of patients in the two groups were collected and analyzed.

Results: Fifteen patients were included into the observation group, including 9 male and 6 female patients with an average age of 52.60 ± 6.31 and a course of disease of 16.33 ± 6.00 months. The other 15 patients were included into the observation group, including seven male and eight female patients with an average age of 52.87 ± 7.38 and a course of disease of 19.13 ± 9.89 months. The difference in the gender, age and course of disease between the two groups had no statistical significance (P > 0.05). However, the difference in the duration of operation and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups had statistical significance (P< 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in wound complications, neurological complications, preoperative slippage rate, postoperative slippage rate, slippage reduction rate and screw placement accuracy (P > 0.05). VAS scores of the two groups were statistically significant from six months after surgery (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in ODI between the two groups at any time point (P >0.05). VAS and ODI scores were improved at each time point compared with those before surgery.

Conclusion: The minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar fusion performed with the aid of CT navigation during the operation shortens the duration of operation and the amount of bleeding, reduces the back pain, is beneficial to the early postoperative functional exercise, and speeds up the postoperative recovery.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.2341

How to cite this:Sui RD, Wang CG, Zhang JC, Wang HT. Clinical Application of CT Navigation in treatment of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis with Minimally Invasive Surgery - Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(5):935-940.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.5.2341

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The evolution of universal adaptations of life is driven by universal properties of matter: energy, entropy, and interaction
Authors: Cohen Irun R. , Marron Assaf
Published: June 2020

The evolution of multicellular eukaryotes expresses two sorts of adaptations: local adaptations like fur or feathers, which characterize species in particular environments, and universal adaptations like microbiomes or sexual reproduction, which characterize most multicellulars in any environment. We reason that the mechanisms driving the universal adaptations of multicellulars should themselves be universal, and propose a mechanism based on properties of matter and systems: energy, entropy, and interaction. Energy from the sun, earth and beyond creates new arrangements and interactions. Metabolic networks channel some of this energy to form cooperating, interactive arrangements. Entropy, used here as a term for all forces that dismantle ordered structures (rather than as a physical quantity), acts as a selective force. Entropy selects for arrangements that resist it long enough to replicate, and dismantles those that do not. Interactions, energy-charged and dynamic, restrain entropy and enable survival and propagation of integrated living systems. This fosters survival-of-the-fitted – those entities that resist entropic destruction – and not only of the fittest – the entities with the greatest reproductive success. The “unit” of evolution is not a discrete entity, such as a gene, individual, or species; what evolves are collections of related interactions at multiple scales. Survival-of-the-fitted explains universal adaptations, including resident microbiomes, sexual reproduction, continuous diversification, programmed turnover, seemingly wasteful phenotypes, altruism, co-evolving environmental niches, and advancing complexity. Indeed survival-of-the-fittest may be a particular case of the survival-of-the-fitted mechanism, promoting local adaptations that express reproductive advantages in addition to resisting entropy. Survival-of-the-fitted accounts for phenomena that have been attributed to neutral evolution: in the face of entropy, there is no neutrality; all variations are challenged by ubiquitous energy and entropy, retaining those that are “fit enough”. We propose experiments to test predictions of the survival-of-the-fitted theory, and discuss implications for the wellbeing of humans and the biosphere.
COVID-19: Identifying countries with indicators of success in responding to the outbreak
Authors: Kennedy David S. , Vu VK , Ritchie Hannah , Bartlein Rebecca , Rothschild Oliver , Bausch Daniel G. , Roser Max , Seale Anna C.
Published: June 2020

Background: In designing responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical to understand what has already worked well. We aimed to identify countries with emerging success stories from whom policymakers might draw important lessons. 

Methods: We developed a process to first include countries with large enough populations that results were unlikely to be due to chance, that had sufficient cases for response mechanisms to be tested, and that shared the necessary publicly available data. Within these countries, we looked at indicators suggesting success in terms of detecting disease, containing the outbreak, and treating those who were unwell. To support comparability, we measured indicators per capita (per million) and across time. We then used the indicators to identify three countries with emerging success stories to include some diversity in global region, population demographics and form of government.

Results: We identified 66 countries that met our inclusion criteria on 18th May 2020. Several of these countries had indicators of success against the set indicators at different times in the outbreak. Vietnam had high levels of testing and successful containment with no deaths reported. South Korea had high levels of testing early in the outbreak, supporting containment. Germany had high levels of sustained testing and slower increases in cases and deaths than seen in other comparable settings.

Conclusions: At the time of our assessment, Vietnam and South Korea were able to contain the outbreak of COVID-19 and avoid the exponential growth in cases seen elsewhere. Germany had more cases and deaths, but was nevertheless able to contain and mitigate the outbreak. Despite the many limitations to the data currently available, looking at comparative data can help identify countries from whom we can draw lessons, so that countries can inform and adapt their strategies for success in response to COVID-19.
Stoma care accessory products: responsible prescribing and cost-effective use
Authors: Bird Andrew
Published: June 2020

An overview of how stoma care nurses can reduce unnecessary, inappropriate or incorrect product use
Infrared spectral microscopy as a tool to monitor lung fibrosis development in a model system
Authors: Suryadevara Vidyani , Nazeer Shaiju S. , Sreedhar Hari , Adelaja Oluwatobi , Kajdacsy-Balla André , Natarajan Viswanathan , Walsh Michael J.
Published: June 2020

Tissue fibrosis is a progressive and destructive disease process that can occur in many different organs including the liver, kidney, skin, and lungs. Fibrosis is typically initiated by inflammation as a result of chronic insults such as infection, chemicals and autoimmune diseases. Current approaches to examine organ fibrosis are limited to radiological and histological analyses. Infrared spectroscopic imaging offers a potential alternative approach to gain insight into biochemical changes associated with fibrosis progression. In this study, we demonstrate that IR imaging of a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis can identify biochemical changes observed with fibrosis progression and the beginning of resolution using K-means analysis, spectral ratios and multivariate data analysis. This study demonstrates that IR imaging may be a useful approach to understand the biochemical events associated with fibrosis initiation, progression and resolution for both the clinical setting and for assessing novel anti-fibrotic drugs in a model system.
Assistant Topical Editors return to JOSA B: editorial
Authors: Busch Kurt
Published: June 2020

Editor-in-Chief Kurt Busch reintroduces the Assistant Topical Editor
Program.
Performance assessment of a coherent DIAL-Doppler fiber lidar at 1645 nm for remote sensing of methane and wind
Authors: Cezard Nicolas , Le Mehaute Simon , Le Gouët Julien , Valla Matthieu , Goular Didier , Fleury Didier , Planchat Christophe , Dolfi-Bouteyre Agnes
Published: June 2020

We report on the performances of a coherent DIAL/Doppler fiber lidar called VEGA, allowing for simultaneous measurements of methane and wind atmospheric profiles. It features a 10µJ, 200 ns, 20 kHz fiber pulsed laser emitter at 1645 nm, and it has been designed to monitor industrial methane leaks and fugitive emissions in the environment. The system performance has been assessed for range-resolved (RR) and integrated-path (IP) methane measurements in natural background conditions (i.e. ambient methane level). For RR measurements, the measured Allan deviation at τ=10 s is in the range of 3-20 ppm, depending of the aerosol load, at a distance of 150 m, with 30 m range resolution, and a beam focused around 150-200 m. For IP measurements, using a natural target at 2.2 km of distance, the Allan deviation at τ=10 s is in the range of 100-200 ppb. In both cases, deviation curves decrease as τ−1/2, up to 1000 seconds for the longest averaging time. Finally, the lidar ability to monitor an industrial methane leak is demonstrated during a field test.
Real-time discrete Fourier transformer with complex-valued outputs based on the inverse temporal Talbot effect
Authors: Chi Hao , Hu Shuyun , Zhai Yanrong , Yang Bo , Cao Zizheng , Ou Jun , Yang Shuna
Published: June 2020

Discrete Fourier transform (DFT) plays an important role in digital signal processing. In this paper, we present a novel optical real-time discrete Fourier transformer with complex-valued outputs, which is enabled by the inverse temporal Talbot effect. In the system, an input pulse train is first quadratically phase-modulated as in an inverse temporal Talbot system and then split into two channels. In the first channel, the pulse train is further amplitude-modulated pulse-by-pulse by a discrete data sequence to be transformed. In the second channel, a reference signal modulates the pulse train, which is for removing the residual quadratic phase profile in the output pulse train. The pulse trains in the two channels propagate through a shared dispersion medium with a proper dispersion value determined by the inverse temporal Talbot effect. A 90-degree optical hybrid and two balanced photodetectors are employed to retrieve the real and imaginary parts of the DFT results. In this scheme, the pulse repetition rate of the output pulse train is equal to the input one. In addition, we present a full theoretical framework to explain exactly the DFT relationship. We also demonstrate that the input data sequence can be complex-valued with the help of an I/Q modulator.
Approaching the upper limits of the local density of states via optimized metallic cavities
Authors: Yao Wenjie , Benzaouia Mohammed , Miller Owen D. , Johnson Steven G.
Published: June 2020

By computational optimization of air-void cavities in metallic substrates, we show that the local density of states (LDOS) can reach within a factor of ≈10 of recent theoretical upper limits and within a factor ≈4 for the single-polarization LDOS, demonstrating that the theoretical limits are nearly attainable. Optimizing the total LDOS results in a spontaneous symmetry breaking where it is preferable to couple to a specific polarization. Moreover, simple shapes such as optimized cylinders attain nearly the performance of complicated many-parameter optima, suggesting that only one or two key parameters matter in order to approach the theoretical LDOS bounds for metallic resonators.
All-optical reversible control of integrated resonant cavity by a self-assembled azobenzene monolayer
Authors: He Jinghan , Kovach Andre , Chen Dongyu , Saris Patrick J. G. , Yu Raymond , Armani Andrea M.
Published: June 2020

The next frontier in photonics will rely on the synergistic combination of disparate material systems. One unique organic molecule is azobenzene. This molecule can reversibly change conformations when optically excited in the blue (trans-to-cis) or mid-IR (cis-to-trans). Here, we form an oriented monolayer of azobenzene-containing 4-(4-diethylaminophenylazo)pyridine (Aazo) on SiO2 optical resonators. Due to the uniformity of the Aazo layers, quality factors over 106 are achieved. To control the photo-response, the density of Aazo groups is tuned by integrating methyl spacer molecules. Using a pair of lasers, the molecule is reversibly flipped between molecular conformations, inducing a refractive index change which results in a resonant wavelength shift. The magnitude of the shift scales with the relative surface density of Aazo. To investigate reproducibility and stability of the organic monolayer, three switching cycles are demonstrated, and the performance is consistent even after a device is stored in air for 6 months.