bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E‐cadherin and p120ctn protein expression are lost in hidradenitis suppurativa lesions
Authors: Nelson Amanda M. , Cong Zhaoyuan , Gettle Samantha L. , Longenecker Amy L. , Kidacki Michal , Kirby Joslyn S. , Adams David R. , Stairs Douglas B. , Danby Frederick W.
Published: May 2019

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease affecting the pilosebaceous units in the axilla, groin and buttocks. While the pathogenesis of HS is not clear, mechanical stress exacerbates HS. In this study, we aimed to determine whether intracellular adhesive junctions may be aberrant in HS patient skin. Strikingly, we observed loss of E‐cadherin and p120ctn protein expression, two key adherens junction proteins, in ~85% of HS severe skin lesions. Moreover, loss of protein expression was apparent in non‐lesional skin from HS patients and the degree of loss positively correlated with HS Hurley Stage of disease. E‐cadherin expression was unaltered in other inflammatory skin conditions including chronic wound epithelium, atopic dermatitis, and acne vulgaris compared with healthy skin suggesting that its loss may be uniquely relevant to HS pathogenesis. A complete loss of α‐catenin, β‐catenin and ZO‐1 was not observed; however, some cytoplasmic staining of the catenins was noted in HS epithelium. We also demonstrated diminished desmosome size in HS lesional skin. Overall, our data suggested that loss of adherens junction proteins and diminished desmosome size in HS skin contributes to the skin's inability to withstand mechanical stress and provides rationale as to why mechanical stress exacerbates HS symptoms.
Data quality and quantity for invasive species: A case study of the lionfishes
Authors: Lyons Timothy J. , Tuckett Quenton M. , Hill Jeffrey E.
Published: May 2019

Predicting invasion risk involves inherent uncertainty when data on biological and ecological characteristics are lacking. To combat data gaps, assessors are required to use information from secondary sources, further reducing predictive accuracy. Lionfish in the subfamily Pteroinae have invasion history in the Western Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, raising concern that other species of globally traded lionfish may pose risks similar to the invasive complex comprised of the red lionfish (Pterois volitans, Scorpaenidae) and devil firefish (Pterois miles, Scorpaenidae). We conducted a standardized literature review of 18 species in the genera Pterois, Dendrochirus, and Parapterois to (a) characterize the volume and composition of literature addressing the invasive complex pre‐establishment and pre‐spread, and compare it to the body of literature that has been generated post‐spread and impact, (b) compare the volume and composition of literature addressing other members of Pteroinae to the invasive complex, and (c) evaluate data quality addressing the Pteroinae by characterizing literature used to generate biological profile reports during a risk screening protocol. Little data were available for the invasive complex prior to introduction and focused primarily on the composition or effects of venom. Following introduction, there was a considerable time lag in research effort. Post‐spread, research effort increased rapidly. We identify similar data deficiencies for other species of lionfish that have not been reported outside of their native ranges. While proactive management is gaining support as an effective framework, it is important to understand data limitations and their resulting uncertainties, which leads to more informed proactive management.
Gait asymmetry assessment for older adults by measuring circular gait speed
Authors: Ichihashi Noriaki , Ikezoe Tome , Sato Syunsuke , Ibuki Satoko
Published: May 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the circular gait test as a method for detecting side‐to‐side straight‐line gait asymmetry in older adults.

Methods

A total of 25 healthy older adults and 20 healthy young adults participated in this study. Walking speeds, right‐ and left‐leg step lengths, and stance durations were measured during straight‐line walking using a triaxial accelerometer (G‐walk from Bertec Japan). Step length and stance duration laterality were calculated using the side‐to‐side difference (|Left – Right|) and asymmetry index (|Left − Right| / mean right and left values × 100). For circular gait, the time required to walk twice around a 1‐m diameter circle for right and left rotations was measured, and the laterality was calculated using the same formula as that described for the straight‐line gait.

Results

The results showed no differences in straight‐line step length or stance duration laterality between groups. However, circular gait asymmetry was significantly higher for older participants. A significant correlation was confirmed between circular gait time and straight‐line step length for older adults (r = 0.404).

Conclusions

The present study suggested that the circular gait test had better potential to detect age‐related changes in gait laterality than straight‐line gait step length or stance duration, and it might work as a simple assessment method for detecting laterality in straight‐line walking. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 736–739.
Crypto‐coin hierarchies: social contestation in blockchain networks
Authors: BOUSFIELD DAN
Published: May 2019

In this article, I discuss the role of crypto‐coins (CCs) as an explicit response to the 2008 economic crisis. Drawing on networked social movement theory, I outline the tension between blockchain based currencies promoted as horizontal markets of technological innovation and the persistence of hierarchical authority within these networks. By examining the assumptions about authority and regulation that underpin the creation of CCs I argue that the cryptographic responses to the financial crisis understate the persistence of hierarchies in their claims to upset traditional monetary authority. As global networks, blockchain technology faces political challenges from regulators, hegemonic market actors and adherents devoted to particular CCs. Consequently, I draw parallels between CCs and networked social movements to argue that the emergence and proliferation of ‘altcoins’ presents a series of political challenges to the framing of CCs as disruptive technology. The innovative character of CCs relies on tacit and explicit assumptions about politics that social movement theory can help to explain. By examining the altcoins through the concepts of resource mobilization, framing and identity formation, I argue that the dynamics of offline social hierarchies persist and are magnified in the world of CCs.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder and dementia in veterans: A scoping literature review
Authors: Ritchie Kim , Cramm Heidi , Aiken Alice , Donnelly Catherine , Goldie Katie
Published: May 2019

Emerging research has found an association between post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dementia in veterans, yet little is known about the nature of this association and how it is conceptualized in the literature. The purpose of this scoping review is to understand how the relationship between PTSD and dementia in veterans is recognized and described in the peer‐reviewed literature. A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 19, 2005) framework. Articles are included if participants were veterans with a focus on PTSD and dementia. A total of six databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, HealthSTAR, and PubMed) were searched along with the reference lists of eligible sources in September 2018. Thematic analysis was used to summarize the data. Thirty‐six studies were included in this review. Three main themes emerged from the literature: (i) symptomatic expression of PTSD and dementia; (ii) aetiology underlying the relationship between PTSD and dementia; and (iii) implications of PTSD and dementia on healthcare providers, treatment, and resources. This study highlights the ongoing need to understand mechanisms underlying the association between PTSD and dementia, the need for definition of PTSD symptoms, and to sensitize healthcare providers to the presence of PTSD when caring for veterans with dementia.
Support of adolescents to resist peer pressure and coercion to sexual activity
Authors: Mashia E.O. , van Wyk N.C. , Leech R.
Published: May 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore and describe how peer pressure and coercion to sexual activity manifested among adolescents in a district in South African and how primary healthcare nurses could support them to resist it.

Background

When adolescents engage in early sexual activity, unplanned pregnancies and sexual transmitted infections become health threats. Notwithstanding the governmental health promotion programmes to improve the sexual health of the youth in South Africa, adolescents are still having unprotected sex and even multiple sex partners.

Methods

A constructivist grounded theory study was done. The initial sample consisted of 10 adolescents and nine professional nurses who were selected from six primary healthcare clinics in the identified district. Constant comparative data collection and analysis were done to identify the initial codes that were theoretically saturated through another round of data collection and analysis involving five participants (four professional nurses and one health educator).

Findings

The findings of the study refer to the definition of peer pressure and coercion and the relationship between professional nurses and adolescents. Ways to optimize the relationship in order for nurses to substitute for parental shortcomings in guiding adolescents towards responsible sexual behaviour and to address the adolescents’ vulnerability regarding peer pressure were identified.

Conclusion

Challenging adolescent–nurse interaction incidents were identified that warranted different approaches to build on existing initiatives to improve adolescent‐friendly health services.

Implications for nursing practice and policy

Primary healthcare nurses should perform complementary roles to substitute for parents who do not have the skills to guide their adolescent children towards responsible sexual behaviour. Programmes need to be developed to enable nurses to optimize their relationships with adolescents and to deliver services through mobile healthcare units to adolescents where they regular socialize. Management should provide budgets for nurses to use multimedia to interact with adolescents.
Acculturation, acculturative stress and resilience among older immigrants in United States
Authors: Serafica R. , Lekhak N. , Bhatta T.
Published: May 2019

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated a strong and consistent association between higher acculturative stress and poorer mental and physical health outcomes while acculturating to a new country. Acculturative stress is multifactorial and nurses work in variety of settings that encounter older immigrants with different levels of acculturative stress. Research on resilience among older immigrants has linked resilience to successful acculturation.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore the interplay between acculturation, acculturative stress and resilience, and their collective impact on physical and mental health self‐evaluation among older Filipino Americans.

Method

This study employed a cross‐sectional, quantitative, descriptive design using older Filipino immigrants, 55 years and older (N = 123) who were living in the western part of the United States.

Findings

Our study found that the levels of acculturation did not have a significant influence on self‐evaluation of physical and mental health; however, acculturative stress and resilience had an indirect effect on physical and mental health.

Conclusions

This study reemphasized the importance of assessing the acculturative stress and determining resiliency among older immigrants who might be undergoing acculturation‐based conflicts with their families and community. Promoting a low level of acculturative stress and high resilience is key to shaping interventions to obtain better health outcomes among this population.

Implications for nursing policy

Nurses can support and augment the efforts of professional nursing organizations to advocate and encourage legislation and policy to improve the physical and mental well‐being of older immigrants. Policymakers should focus on additional resources for older adults from other countries to reduce their stress or enhance their resilience.
Multi‐omics integrative analysis identified SNP‐methylation‐mRNA: Interaction in peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Lu Yi‐Hua , Wang Bing‐Hua , Jiang Fei , Mo Xing‐Bo , Wu Long‐Fei , He Pei , Lu Xin , Deng Fei‐Yan , Lei Shu‐Feng
Published: May 2019

Genetic variants have potential influence on DNA methylation and thereby regulate mRNA expression. This study aimed to comprehensively reveal the relationships among SNP, methylation and mRNA, and identify methylation‐mediated regulation patterns in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Based on in‐house multi‐omics datasets from 43 Chinese Han female subjects, genome‐wide association trios were constructed by simultaneously testing the following three association pairs: SNP‐methylation, methylation‐mRNA and SNP‐mRNA. Causal inference test (CIT) was used to identify methylation‐mediated genetic effects on mRNA. A total of 64,184 significant cis‐methylation quantitative trait loci (meQTLs) were identified (FDR < 0.05). Among the 745 constructed trios, 464 trios formed SNP‐methylation‐mRNA regulation chains (CIT). Network analysis (Cytoscape 3.3.0) constructed multiple complex regulation networks among SNP, methylation and mRNA (eg a total of 43 SNPs simultaneously connected to cg22517527 and further to PRMT2, DIP2A and YBEY). The regulation chains were supported by the evidence from 4DGenome database, relevant to immune or inflammatory related diseases/traits, and overlapped with previous eQTLs from dbGaP and GTEx. The results provide new insights into the regulation patterns among SNP, DNA methylation and mRNA expression, especially for the methylation‐mediated effects, and also increase our understanding of functional mechanisms underlying the established associations.
The exploration of mechanisms of comorbidity between migraine and depression
Authors: Zhang Qing , Shao Anwen , Jiang Zhengyan , Tsai Huitzong , Liu Weibo
Published: May 2019

Migraine comorbid with depression is common and is often encountered in clinical practice. The comorbidity may lead to more serious conditions with other symptoms and a longer duration of treatment and it may impose heavy economic and social burdens, directly or indirectly, on patients and their families. Numerous studies have been published on the association of migraine with depression. Numerous literature have showed that the comorbidity may have a common complicated pathogenic mechanism involving biopsychosocial characteristics, including abnormal brain development and shared genetic basis, as well as neurotransmitters, sex hormones and stress. In addition, some studies have identified the multiple, bidirectional relationship between migraine and depressive disorder. We searched the literature for the possible common mechanisms between migraine and depression and classified the research results.
Toward a dynamic evaluation of mineral criticality: Introducing the framework of criticality systems
Authors: Yuan Ye , Yellishetty Mohan , Muñoz Mario A. , Northey Stephen A.
Published: May 2019

A new methodology to quantify minerals’ criticalities is proposed—the criticality systems of minerals. In this methodology, four types of agents—mineral suppliers, consumers, regulators of the market, and others, such as the communities near mining operations—interact with each other through three types of indicators: constraints, such as the political stability in the mining regions, the mineral's substitutability and economic importance; agents’ interactions, such as buyer–seller bargaining; and interactive variables, such as the demand, supply, and price. When the criticality systems of two mineral groups are constructed, analyses that compare the indicators of these criticality systems can determine which group is more critical than the other. This methodology allows evaluation of criticality in a dynamic and systemic manner.
The role of pericytes in brain disorders: from the periphery to the brain
Authors: Hirunpattarasilp Chanawee , Attwell David , Freitas Felipe
Published: May 2019

It is becoming increasingly apparent that disorders of the brain microvasculature contribute to many neurological disorders. In recent years it has become clear that a major player in these events is the capillary pericyte which, in the brain, is now known to control the blood–brain barrier, regulate blood flow, influence immune cell entry and be crucial for angiogenesis. In this review we consider the under‐explored possibility that peripheral diseases which affect the microvasculature, such as hypertension, kidney disease and diabetes, produce central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction by mechanisms affecting capillary pericytes within the CNS. We highlight how cellular messengers produced peripherally can act via signalling pathways within CNS pericytes to reshape blood vessels, restrict blood flow or compromise blood–brain barrier function, thus causing neuronal dysfunction. Increased understanding of how renin–angiotensin, Rho‐kinase and PDGFRβ signalling affect CNS pericytes may suggest novel therapeutic approaches to reducing the CNS effects of peripheral disorders.

image
Evaluation of physician volumetric accuracy during hyaluronic acid gel injections: An observational, proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Enright Kaitlyn M. , Sampalis John , Nikolis Andreas
Published: May 2019

Background

Findings indicate that standard injection techniques for hyaluronic acid (HA) soft tissue fillers result in considerable variations in the applied boluses. Furthermore, despite the knowledge that the varying biophysical properties of HA fillers (eg, G′, cohesivity, viscoelasticity) can affect their ease of injection, the impact of device attributes on an injector's volumetric accuracy is currently unknown.

Objectives

(a) Evaluate the ability of aesthetic physicians to accurately inject a specific amount of HA filler; (b) investigate the effect of physician experience on injection accuracy; and (c) investigate the impact of different HA gel properties on an injector's performance.

Methods

Thirteen physicians with aesthetic experience were recruited. Subjects were blindfolded and asked to deposit 0.2 cc of four HA fillers under two conditions: (a) onto a scale and (b) into a porcine membrane. The amount of gel deposited/injected was then measured. An accurate injection was defined as 0.2 cc ± 15%.

Results

Subjects were rarely able to dispense accurate amounts of injectate (42/208 injections or 20.19%) and often underestimated their injection quantities. Variations in the accuracy distributions between groups were observed. An injector's experience, the conditions under which injections were performed and the product choice were all variables found to affect the accuracy distributions.

Conclusions

The findings of this study provide evidence that the use of visual and/or audible stimuli is necessary for dispensing accurate volumes. This has clinical implications for treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction during free hand injections. To ensure more accurate and reproducible results, the investigators propose a possible modification to the standard injection technique.
Sertoli–Leydig cell tumor of the ovary: Analysis of a single institution database and review of the literature
Authors: Durmuş Yasin , Kılıç Çiğdem , Çakır Caner , Yüksel Dilek , Boran Nurettin , Karalök Alper , Boyraz Gökhan , Turan Ahmet T.
Published: May 2019

Aim

To evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcome of ovarian Sertoli–Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) managed at a single institution.

Methods

The hospital records of 17 patients with the diagnosis of ovarian SLCT between 1994 and 2018 were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

The median age of the patients was 30 years (range, 18–67 years). All the patients had unilateral tumors. All of the 17 were stage 1 tumors. Two (11.8%) patients were stage 1C1 and two (11.8%) patients were stage 1C2. Thirteen (76.5%) patients were stage 1A. Three (17.6%) of the tumors were well differentiated, 11 (64.7%) were intermediately differentiated, 1 (5.9%) was poorly differentiated, and the degree of the differentiation was not identified for 2 (11.8%) patients. One showed retiform pattern and one had heterologous elements at the histopathologic evaluation. Among the 17 patients, we identified structural/vascular renal and ureteral anomalies in 3 (17.6%) patients. Eight patients underwent total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy, seven underwent unilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy or oophorectomy and two underwent cystectomy with or without additional surgical staging procedures. Four patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. All the 17 patients were alive and free of disease for 1–287 months after the diagnosis. Median follow‐up time was 78 months. None of the patients recurred.

Conclusion

Sertoli–Leydig cell tumors are rare ovarian malignancies with low recurrence rates and have a favorable outcome compared to malignant epithelial tumors of the ovary. Main treatment is surgical resection and it is appropriate to prefer fertility sparing conservative surgeries for young patients.
Egg production in relation to paternal weight in a freshwater caridean shrimp (Decapoda)
Authors: Tropea C. , Sganga D. E. , López Greco L. S.
Published: May 2019

In diverse invertebrate species, sperm quantity and quality are positively correlated with male size, egg fertilization rates being consequently affected by paternal weight. This factor may also have an indirect effect on egg quality, because females could adjust the quantity of yolk stored in oocytes before spawning according to their partner attractiveness. The objective of this study was to determine whether paternal weight influences egg production in a freshwater crustacean with external egg fertilization, the caridean shrimp Neocaridina davidi. Virgin females weighing 60–100 mg were paired with virgin males weighing 20–50 mg. The number (total and fertilized), size (volume, wet and dry weight) and carotenoid content of eggs were recorded for each pair. Paternal weight was not associated to any of the evaluated egg variables, while maternal weight showed a positive correlation with egg number and a negative correlation with egg carotenoid content. The percentage of fertilized eggs was similar and near 100% for all paternal sizes, which indicates that small mature males provided enough good‐quality sperm to fertilize almost all the oocytes laid by females, similarly to larger males. The relatively low fecundity of N. davidi females may explain, at least in part, the absence of sperm limitation even under a hypothetical decrease in sperm supply by smaller males. In addition, paternal weight had no effect on egg volume, weight and carotenoid content, which suggests that females do not modulate the total amount of biochemical reserves allocated to the maturing ovary as a function of their partner size. Present results are the starting point for a future evaluation of sperm production, in terms of quantity and quality, in males of different size and physiological condition.
Transformative learning: premise, promise and challenges
Authors: Saxena Anurag
Published: May 2019

Saxena offers an exploration of a more inclusive perspective on transformative learning and implores health professional institutions to enhance education for social justice.
Accounting for complexity in medical education: a model of adaptive behaviour in medicine
Authors: Woodruff James N
Published: May 2019

Context

Medicine is practised in complex systems. Physicians engage in clinical and operational problems that are dynamic and lack full transparency. As a consequence, the behaviour of medical systems and diseases is often unpredictable. Medical science has equipped physicians with powerful tools to favourably impact health, but a reductionist approach alone is insufficient to optimally address the complex challenges posed by illness and public health. Concepts from complexity science, such as continuous quality improvement and teamwork, strive to fill the gap between biomedical knowledge and the realities of practice. However, the superficial treatment of these systems‐thinking concepts in medical education has distorted their implementation and undermined their impact. ‘Systems thinking’ has been conflated with ‘systematic thinking’; concepts which are adaptive in nature are being taught as standardised, reductionist tools.

Methods

Using concepts from complexity science, the history of science and psychology, this problem is outlined and a theoretical model of professional development is proposed.

Results

This model proposes that complex problem solving and adaptive behaviour, not technical expertise, are distinguishing features of professionalism.

Discussion

The impact of this model on our understanding of physician autonomy, professionalism, teamwork and continuous quality improvement is discussed. This model has significant implications for the structure and content of medical education. Strategies for enhancing medical training, including interventions in recruitment, the curriculum and evaluation, are reviewed. Such adjustments would prepare trainees to more effectively utilise biomedical knowledge and tools in the complex high‐stakes reality of medical practice.
The complexity of mentoring observed through engagement with programmatic assessment
Authors: Han Heeyoung , Ju Ahreum
Published: May 2019

Embracing diversity and intersectionality in an organization is complex, but the authors discuss the importance of doing so by reflecting on the investigation of mentoring practices in programmatic assessment.
Multiple layers of regulation determine the cellular levels of the Pup ligase PafA in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Korman Maayan , Schlussel Shai , Vishkautzan Marina , Gur Eyal
Published: May 2019

Despite being a destructive process, regulated protein degradation is fundamental for proper cell function. While regulated proteolysis in eukaryotes largely involves the ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS), most bacterial species rely on multiple ATP‐dependent proteases, such as the Clp proteases. Mycobacteria and related actinobacterial species also possess a degradation system analogous in its function to the UPS. In this system, a prokaryotic ubiquitin‐like protein (Pup) is conjugated to proteins, thereby marking them for proteasomal degradation. A single ligase, PafA, is responsible for Pup conjugation to many protein targets, thus playing a central role in the Pup‐proteasome system (PPS). In Mycobacterium smegmatis, a model mycobacterial organism where the PPS is essential under starvation conditions, cellular PafA levels change in response to nutrient availability. Indeed, increased PafA levels are observed upon nutrient limitation. We found that a multi‐layered network involving transcriptional, translational and post‐translational regulation determines cellular PafA levels. Induced expression is observed at stationary phase, whereas PafA degradation by the proteasome and ClpCP occurs in exponentially growing cells, as opposed to starved cells. In both growth stages, translation attenuation maintains low PafA expression levels. Altogether, these mechanisms establish the dynamics in PafA levels during bacterial growth.
Long‐term outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation using second‐generation cryoballoon during atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Canpolat Ugur , Kocyigit Duygu , Yalcin Muhammed Ulvi , Coteli Cem , Sener Yusuf Ziya , Oksul Metin , Gürses Kadri Murat , Evranos Banu , Yorgun Hikmet , Aytemir Kudret
Published: May 2019

Background

Currently available second‐generation cryoballoon (CB2) is accepted as an effective and safe tool for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Although much more data exist about 1‐year outcomes of CB2 ablation, data on long‐term outcomes are scarce.

Objective

We aimed to assess the long‐term outcomes of PVI using CB2 in a large‐scale symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) population at our tertiary referral center.

Methods

In this nonrandomized prospective observational study, a total of 486 patients with paroxysmal (71%) or persistent (29%) AF who underwent index PVI using CB2 at our hospital between January 2013 and June 2017 were enrolled. Atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa)‐free survival was defined as the absence of AF, atrial flutter, or atrial tachycardia recurrence ≥30 s following a 3 months blanking period. Predictors of recurrence were evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Acute procedural success rate was 99.8% (1898/1902 PVs). Mean procedural and fluoroscopy time were 64.9 ± 9.2 and 12.1 ± 2.6, respectively. At median 39 (interquartile range: 26‐56) months follow‐up, ATa‐free survival was 78.6% after a single procedure (280/345 [81.2%] for paroxysmal AF vs. 102/141 [72.3%] for persistent AF, P = .019) and 84.4% after a mean 1.48 ± 0.42 ablations. Cox regression analysis showed that left atrium diameter, duration of AF history, and early ATa recurrence were found as the independent predictors of late recurrence. Phrenic nerve palsy was observed in 17 (3.5%) patients.

Conclusions

CB2‐based PVI is effective to maintain sinus rhythm in a significant proportion of paroxysmal and persistent AF patients with an acceptable complication rate at long‐term follow‐up.
Improvement of peripheral microcirculation after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Quast Daniel Robert , Hummel Thomas , Wutzler Alexander , Meier Juris Jendrik
Published: May 2019

Background

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a noninvasive method to measure regional tissue oxygenation (rSO2). In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), cardiac output and endothelial function are altered. Peripheral tissue oxygenation may therefore be reduced. This study aims to describe the peripheral tissue oxygenation of the feet before and after synchronized electrical cardioversion (CV) of patients with AF using NIRS.

Methods

Patients with AF undergoing CV were included and screened for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), diabetes mellitus (DM), and peripheral neuropathy (PN). NIRS was performed before and after CV under continuous ECG and monitoring of peripheral oxygen saturation. NIRS was registered on the dorsoplantar and plantar area of both feet. Capillary blood gas analysis was performed and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was determined.

Results

Twelve patients (five women, seven men, age 70.8 ± 10.8 years) participated. None had history of PAD. DM was present in three (25%) patients. Two patients (16.7%) had PN. CV was successful in 11 patients. Overall, rSO2 improved significantly in all patients after CV (P = .0003). Mean improvement was 7.17%. There were no significant changes in body temperature, ankle‐brachial index, sO2, pO2, pCO2, pH, or lactate after CV. Heart rate was significantly lower (P < .0001) and LVEF significantly higher (P = .0123) after CV.

Conclusions

In patients with AF, peripheral tissue oxygen saturation improves significantly after successful CV. This suggests that patients with PAD may not only benefit from interventional or surgical improvement of arterial vascularization, but also from CV in case of AF.
Marker‐trait association analysis for postharvest needle retention/abscission in balsam fir (Abies balsamea)
Authors: Jose Sherin , Lada Rajasekaran R.
Published: May 2019

Balsam fir the principal tree species of the Christmas tree industry, is a major export commodity of Atlantic Canada region. However, postharvest needle abscission poses a main concern leading to low consumer satisfaction and a shift in preference towards artificial trees. The search for diverse balsam fir lines with high needle retention is very crucial for quality improvement programmes. In this regard, a panel of 75 balsam fir genotypes exhibiting diversity for needle retention traits were randomly selected from a set of 220 genotypes evaluated for needle retention characteristics for two consecutive years (2012 and 2013) and genotyped with 41 bi‐allelic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)/insertion/deletion markers. The cluster analysis and population structure identified four and seven subpopulations. We observed an SNP marker with significant association (p < 0.05) with the needle retention/abscission trait by using general linear model and mixed linear model approaches. The present study lays the foundation for analysing the genetic mechanisms underlying needle retention/abscission, as well as the use of molecular markers to target specific traits in balsam fir.
Quantification of laminarialean zoospores in seawater by real‐time PCR
Authors: Nagasato Chikako , Kawamoto Hiroki , Tomioka Teruo , Tsuyuzaki Shiro , Kosugi Chika , Kato Toshiaki , Motomura Taizo
Published: May 2019

Laminarialean plants undergo heteromorphic alternation of generations between the macroscopic diploid sporophyte and the microscopic haploid gametophyte. The generations change through the formation and release of asexual or sexual reproductive cells. It is difficult to monitor the release and diffusion of zoospores into the environment. Furthermore, even if zoospores can be detected, species identification remains difficult. This study attempted to develop a sensitive and fast identification method for laminarialean zoospores using quantitative PCR. In addition, we aimed to estimate the density of zoospores in natural seawater. Specific primers for Saccharina japonica and Undaria pinnatifida were designed and used to estimate the quantity of zoospores in seawater. DNA samples (environmental DNA) were collected from seawater once or twice each month for 2 years at the same area, and seasonal variations in the release of zoospores was monitored. The estimated maturation period based on the number of released zoospores in this study was comparable with those of the previously reported maturation periods of S. japonica and U. pinnatifida sporophytes. This supports the validity of our method in estimating zoospore release from laminarialean plants. The method will be a useful tool for ecological studies on these commercially relevant species.
Identification of the JY‐1 in sika deer and its effects on granulosa cells cultured in vitro
Authors: Chen Xiumin , Xing Mingjie , Yang Yifeng , Chen Min , Chang Tong , Xu Baozeng , Wei Haijun
Published: May 2019

The oocyte‐specific protein JY‐1 was reported as an important regulator of both function of ovarian granulosa cells and early embryogenesis in cattle. Here, we found that the transcripts of JY‐1 were also present in sika deer granulosa cells (GCs) through in situ hybridization and qRT‐PCR. The complete sika deer JY‐1 coding sequence was identified, which had three exons separated by two introns. It was detected that JY‐1 knockdown caused apoptosis and abnormal cell cycle progression in GCs of sika deer cultured in vitro. Taken together, these data suggest that JY‐1 is involved in the regulation of proliferation in sika deer ovarian GCs.
The role of AI classifiers in skin cancer images
Authors: Magalhaes Carolina , Mendes Joaquim , Vardasca Ricardo
Published: May 2019

Background

The use of different imaging modalities to assist in skin cancer diagnosis is a common practice in clinical scenarios. Different features representative of the lesion under evaluation can be retrieved from image analysis and processing. However, the integration and understanding of these additional parameters can be a challenging task for physicians, so artificial intelligence (AI) methods can be implemented to assist in this process. This bibliographic research was performed with the goal of assessing the current applications of AI algorithms as an assistive tool in skin cancer diagnosis, based on information retrieved from different imaging modalities.

Materials and methods

The bibliography databases ISI Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus were used for the literature search, with the combination of keywords: skin cancer, skin neoplasm, imaging and classification methods.

Results

The search resulted in 526 publications, which underwent a screening process, considering the established eligibility criteria. After screening, only 65 were qualified for revision.

Conclusion

Different imaging modalities have already been coupled with AI methods, particularly dermoscopy for melanoma recognition. Learners based on support vector machines seem to be the preferred option. Future work should focus on image analysis, processing stages and image fusion assuring the best possible classification outcome.
Recipient factors influencing red blood cell alloimmunization
Authors: Hendrickson Jeanne E.
Published: May 2019

Red blood cell (RBC) alloantibodies develop in a subset of individuals following exposure to non‐self RBCs through transfusion, pregnancy or other activities; these antibodies can lead to difficulty locating compatible RBCs, acute or delayed haemolytic transfusion reactions, or haemolytic disease of the newborn. Alloimmunization is underestimated due in part to antibody evanescence, the random nature of post‐transfusion antibody screens, fragmented medical care and the lack of widespread antibody registries. Factors that influence who will develop detectable alloantibodies are not well understood. Transfusion burden is one risk factor for alloimmunization, though many highly transfused individuals never form alloantibodies despite exposure to many RBC units (and many non‐self blood group antigens). Individuals with sickle‐cell disease (SCD) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are more likely to form RBC alloantibodies than most other patient populations. Individuals with rheumatologic and other forms of autoimmunity, though not chronically transfused, are also at higher‐than‐average risk of forming RBC alloantibodies. Inflammation, in a broad sense, is one common thread amongst these diagnoses associated with high prevalence rates of RBC alloimmunization. Reductionist murine models support some types of inflammation (including viral‐like stimuli) around the time of RBC exposure as being associated with an increased likelihood of alloantibody formation. Strategies other than transfusion avoidance or extended antigen matching beyond ABO/Rh would be beneficial to prevent new RBC alloantibody formation, especially in patients at highest risk.
Reasons for (non‐)adherence to self‐care in people with a diabetic foot ulcer
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Seng Leonard , Lazzarini Peter A. , Warnock Jason , Ploderer Bernd
Published: May 2019

We aimed to explore reasons for (non‐)adherence to self‐care among people with diabetic foot ulcers, as well as barriers and solutions to improving their self‐care adherence. We performed a qualitative study, recruiting people with a diabetic foot ulcer from a community diabetic foot clinic. Semistructured interviews were held with participants. Data saturation occurred after 9 and was confirmed after 11 participant interviews. Interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using the framework approach. Findings were mapped and the World Health Organization's (WHO) adherence dimensions were applied to themes identified. The key themes identified were (1) participants performed recommended practices in self‐care; (2) participants relied heavily on care support; (3) motivations for self‐care came from “staying well”; and (4) there was a disparity between self‐care knowledge and understanding. Barriers identified included poor mobility and visibility, difficulty wearing offloading devices or using wound dressings, and frustration with lack of progress. Solutions to improve adherence included integrating self‐care as routine, improved education, more external help and improving visibility. All five WHO adherence dimensions played a role in (non‐)adherence to diabetic foot ulcer self‐care. We conclude that adherence to recommended diabetic foot ulcer self‐care was limited at best, and reasons for nonadherence were multidimensional. Based on the factors related to (non‐)adherence and the barriers and solutions described, we suggest clinicians obtain a broad view of a person's situation when aiming to improve self‐care adherence.
Leukemia inhibitory factor promotes the regeneration of rat uterine horns with full‐thickness injury
Authors: Xue Bai , Liu Dan , Song Minmin , Zhao Guangfeng , Cao Yun , Yan Guijun , Dai Jianwu , Hu Yali
Published: May 2019

Severe uterine injuries may lead to infertility or pregnancy complications. There is a lack of effective methods to restore the structure and function of seriously injured uteri. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), which plays a crucial role in blastocyst implantation, promotes the process of regeneration after injury in several different tissues. In this study, we explored the effect of LIF on the regeneration of rat uterine horns following full‐thickness injury. One hundred and twenty four female Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to three groups, including a sham‐operated group (n = 34 uterine horns), a PBS/collagen group (n = 90 uterine horns), and a LIF/collagen group (n = 124 uterine horns). The regenerated uterine horns were collected at 1, 2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks after the surgery. The results showed that LIF/collagen scaffolds increased the number of endometrial cells and neovascularization 2 weeks after uterine full‐thickness defect in excision sites (p < 0.001 vs PBS/collagen). Eight weeks after the surgery, the number of endometrial glands was dramatically higher in the LIF/collagen scaffolds group (35.2 ± 4.1/field) than in the PBS/collagen scaffolds (15.1 ± 1.4/field). The percentage of a‐smooth muscle actin (a‐SMA)‐positive areas in the LIF/collagen scaffolds (88.8% ± 9.8%) was also significantly higher than that in the PBS/collagen group (52.9% ± 3.7%). Moreover, LIF improved the pregnancy rate and fetus number. We also found that LIF inhibited the infiltration of inflammatory cells and down‐regulated the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐12 expression while up‐regulating the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 expression in the injured part of the uterine horns. Our results indicate that LIF promotes regeneration of the uterus after injury, and this is at least partially due to its immunomodulatory properties. In addition, it is worth to explore further the possibility for LIF/collagen to be an alternative therapeutic approach for uterine damage in the clinic in near future.
An Investigation About High School Students’ Mathematics Anxiety Level According To Gender
Authors: Akbayır Kamil
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate the anxiety levels of high school students towards mathematics lesson according to gender variable. A total of 89 ninth grade students (29 females and 60 males) from various high schools were enrolled in Van province center in the 2017-2018 academic year. In the study, the data were collected by using the developed “Mathematical Anxiety Scale” of the researcher. In the analysis of the collected data, frequency and percentage values were taken and independent sample t test was used. According to the results of the study, high school students' mathematics anxiety levels were at medium level. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in the anxiety levels of female and male students. While the test anxiety levels of the students who participated in the study were higher than the other anxiety levels, the lowest anxiety level was seen as lack of curriculum subjects.
Experiences of Teachers of Deaf and Hard- of- Hearing Students’ in a Special Needs School: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Ntinda Kayi , Thwala S’lungile K. , Tfusi Bonginkhosi
Published: May 2019

This study reports on the experiences of teachers of the deaf and hard-of- hearing students in a special needs high school for the deaf in Eswatini. The study adopted a qualitative approach and was exploratory in nature. Participants comprised of eighteen (n =18) purposively sampled teachers of deaf and hard-of-hearing students. They participated in individual in-depth and focus group discussion interviews on the teaching and communication aspects with deaf and hard- of- hearing students. Data were also collected through documents review. Credibility and trustworthiness of data were established through member checks. Data were thematically analysed for important meanings. Teachers reported to experience gaps in professional competencies to teach the mainstream curriculum for which they needed further education. Variation in sign language impacting learner engagement hindered teachers’ communication with the deaf and hard-of-hearing students and their parents. Teachers reported to have in service professional training needs which included collaboration, consultation, assessment instruments and language skills. The findings have important implications for policy and practice in educating the deaf and hard- of- hearing students and for interpreting previous research. There is urgent need for the country to consider having a standardized sign language which could enhance positive teaching and learning outcomes as well as social integration for the future lives of these students. Understanding experiences of these teachers from the lived cultural milieu are important for the design and implementation of programmes for supporting the deaf and hard- of hearing learners, their teachers and parents.