bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED ARTICLE: MiR-140 targets RAP2A to enable the proliferation of insulin-treated ovarian granulosa cells
Authors: Xiong Zhengfang , Li Bing , Wang Wenjuan , Zeng Xianghui , Li Binye , Jian Shengyan , Wang Liyun
Published: February 2020

Background

We elucidated the role of specific MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and explained the changes in the proliferation of granulosa cells. Excised ovarian cortex specimens were collected for miRNA profiling analysis (n = 20 PCOS females and 5 non-PCOS females). Insulin-treated ovarian granulosa cells isolated from mice were used for mechanical studies.

Results

High miR-140 expression was observed in PCOS samples and insulin-treated granulosa cells compared to that in non-PCOS and unstimulated cells, respectively. However, the Ras-related protein Rap-2a precursor (RAP2A) was downregulated in in PCOS. MTT assay and EdU staining showed that an miR-140 inhibitor attenuated viability in insulin-treated granulosa cells; cell viability increased with miR-140 overexpression. Reduced expression of miR-140 and the expression of the miR-140 mimic resulted in marked cell apoptosis, as evidenced by the results of PI flow cytometry and Annexin V-FITC; miR-140 overexpression results in downregulated RAP2A expression, and the miR-140 mimic directly bound to the RAP2A 3′-UTR, causing increase in RAP2A levels in insulin-treated granulosa cells; RNA-mediated silencing of RAP2A in insulin-treated granulosa cells restored cell proliferation and apoptosis to normal levels. Phosphorylated AKT was found to be negatively regulated through cross-talk between miR-140 and RAP2A.

Conclusions

In conclusion, PCOS ovarian cortex specimens and insulin-treated granulosa cells showed elevated expression of miR-140, which could lead to increased proliferation and reduced apoptosis of cells by targeting RAP2A. This study may pave the way for future research on the properties of granulosa cells in PCOS.
Nanopore sequencing-based genome assembly and evolutionary genomics of circum-basmati rice
Authors: Choi Jae Young , Lye Zoe N. , Groen Simon C. , Dai Xiaoguang , Rughani Priyesh , Zaaijer Sophie , Harrington Eoghan D. , Juul Sissel , Purugganan Michael D.
Published: February 2020

Background

The circum-basmati group of cultivated Asian rice (Oryza sativa) contains many iconic varieties and is widespread in the Indian subcontinent. Despite its economic and cultural importance, a high-quality reference genome is currently lacking, and the group’s evolutionary history is not fully resolved. To address these gaps, we use long-read nanopore sequencing and assemble the genomes of two circum-basmati rice varieties.

Results

We generate two high-quality, chromosome-level reference genomes that represent the 12 chromosomes of Oryza. The assemblies show a contig N50 of 6.32 Mb and 10.53 Mb for Basmati 334 and Dom Sufid, respectively. Using our highly contiguous assemblies, we characterize structural variations segregating across circum-basmati genomes. We discover repeat expansions not observed in japonica—the rice group most closely related to circum-basmati—as well as the presence and absence variants of over 20 Mb, one of which is a circum-basmati-specific deletion of a gene regulating awn length. We further detect strong evidence of admixture between the circum-basmati and circum-aus groups. This gene flow has its greatest effect on chromosome 10, causing both structural variation and single-nucleotide polymorphism to deviate from genome-wide history. Lastly, population genomic analysis of 78 circum-basmati varieties shows three major geographically structured genetic groups: Bhutan/Nepal, India/Bangladesh/Myanmar, and Iran/Pakistan.

Conclusion

The availability of high-quality reference genomes allows functional and evolutionary genomic analyses providing genome-wide evidence for gene flow between circum-aus and circum-basmati, describes the nature of circum-basmati structural variation, and reveals the presence/absence variation in this important and iconic rice variety group.
Image-guided breast biopsy and localisation: recommendations for information to women and referring physicians by the European Society of Breast Imaging
Authors:   for the European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI), with language review by Europa Donna–The European Breast Cancer Coalition, Bick Ulrich , Trimboli Rubina M. , Athanasiou Alexandra , Balleyguier Corinne , Baltzer Pascal A. T. , Bernathova Maria , Borbély Krisztina , Brkljacic Boris , Carbonaro Luca A. , Clauser Paola , Cassano Enrico , Colin Catherine , Esen Gul , Evans Andrew , Fallenberg Eva M. , Fuchsjaeger Michael H. , Gilbert Fiona J. , Helbich Thomas H. , Heywang-Köbrunner Sylvia H. , Herranz Michel , Kinkel Karen , Kilburn-Toppin Fleur , Kuhl Christiane K. , Lesaru Mihai , Lobbes Marc B. I. , Mann Ritse M. , Martincich Laura , Panizza Pietro , Pediconi Federica , Pijnappel Ruud M. , Pinker Katja , Schiaffino Simone , Sella Tamar , Thomassin-Naggara Isabelle , Tardivon Anne , Ongeval Chantal Van , Wallis Matthew G. , Zackrisson Sophia , Forrai Gabor , Herrero Julia Camps , Sardanelli Francesco
Published: February 2020

We summarise here the information to be provided to women and referring physicians about percutaneous breast biopsy and lesion localisation under imaging guidance. After explaining why a preoperative diagnosis with a percutaneous biopsy is preferred to surgical biopsy, we illustrate the criteria used by radiologists for choosing the most appropriate combination of device type for sampling and imaging technique for guidance. Then, we describe the commonly used devices, from fine-needle sampling to tissue biopsy with larger needles, namely core needle biopsy and vacuum-assisted biopsy, and how mammography, digital breast tomosynthesis, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging work for targeting the lesion for sampling or localisation. The differences among the techniques available for localisation (carbon marking, metallic wire, radiotracer injection, radioactive seed, and magnetic seed localisation) are illustrated. Type and rate of possible complications are described and the issue of concomitant antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy is also addressed. The importance of pathological-radiological correlation is highlighted: when evaluating the results of any needle sampling, the radiologist must check the concordance between the cytology/pathology report of the sample and the radiological appearance of the biopsied lesion. We recommend that special attention is paid to a proper and tactful approach when communicating to the woman the need for tissue sampling as well as the possibility of cancer diagnosis, repeat tissue sampling, and or even surgery when tissue sampling shows a lesion with uncertain malignant potential (also referred to as “high-risk” or B3 lesions). Finally, seven frequently asked questions are answered.
Proximal femoral focal deficiency – a rare congenital entity: two case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Uduma Felix U. , Dim Edwin M. , Njeze Ngozi R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Proximal femoral focal deficiency is an extremely rare congenital anomaly with an incidence of 1.1–2.0 in 100,000 live births. It is a dysplastic phenomenon with predilections for the proximal two-thirds of the femur leading to limb length discrepancies.

We report two cases of proximal femoral focal deficiency, which is a rare entity.

Case presentations

Case 1

A 4.5-month-old baby Annang tribe girl was referred in April 2019 to our Radiology Department, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Nigeria for lower limb radiographs. This was on account of her shortened left lower limb from birth despite uneventful antenatal history. An examination revealed bulky left thigh with abduction of her left hip joint.

Radiographic evaluations showed absent left femoral capital epiphysis, with deficient proximal left femur. A diagnosis of proximal femoral focal deficiency was made. Sadly, the parents and baby failed to honor future orthopedic consultations on intimation of sequential management protocols.

Case 2

A 4-month-old baby Ibibio tribe girl was similarly referred in August 2019 to the same Radiology Department for lower limb conventional radiographs due to short left lower limb that was noticed from birth. An examination showed shortened left lower limb in external rotation. Her right and left lower limbs measured 27 cm and 23 cm, respectively, with landmark taken from anterior superior iliac spine to tip of medial malleolus. A diagnosis of proximal femoral focal deficiency was made. Corroborating radiographs showed shortened and hypoplastic left femoral shaft but preserved femoral capital epiphysis. Coincidentally, the parents have not brought back their baby to our orthopedic clinic.

Conclusions

The discovery of two cases of proximal femoral focal deficiency, a rare entity, from referrals for conventional radiography in our Radiology Department encourages literature documentation. Such recognition will facilitate early institution of management, thus ensuring meaningful childhood growth.
Features extraction and analysis for device-free human activity recognition based on channel statement information in b5G wireless communications
Authors: Yuan Hui , Yang Xiaolong , He Ailin , Li Zhaoyu , Zhang Zhenya , Tian Zengshan
Published: February 2020

Features extraction and analysis for human activity recognition (HAR) have been studied for decades in the 5th generation (5G) and beyond the 5th generation (B5G) era. Nowadays, with the extensive use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the civil field, integrating wireless signal receivers on UAVs could be a better choice to receive hearable signals more conveniently. In recent years, the HAR system based on CSI based on WiFi radar has received widespread attention due to its low cost and privacy protection property. However, in the existing CSI-based HAR system, there are two disadvantages: (1) The detection threshold is manually set, which limits its adaptability and immediacy in different wireless environments. (2) A sole classifier is used to complete the recognition, resulting in poor robustness and relatively low recognition accuracy. In this paper, we propose a CSI-based device-free HAR (CDHAR) system with WiFi-sensing radar integrated on UAVs to recognize everyday human activities. Firstly, by using machine learning, CDHAR applies kernel density estimation (KDE) to obtain adaptive detection thresholds to complete the extraction of activity duration. Second, we proposed a random subspace classifier ensemble method for classification, which applies the frequency domain feature instead of the time domain feature, and we choose each kind of feature in the same amount. Finally, we prototype CDHAR on commercial WiFi devices and evaluate its performance in both indoor environment and outdoor environments. The experiment results tell that even if experimental scenario varies, the accuracy of activity durations extraction can reach 98% and 99.60% whether in outdoor or indoor environments. According to the extracted data, the recognition accuracy in outdoor and indoor environments can reach 91.2% and 90.2%, respectively. CDHAR ensures high recognition accuracy while improving the adaptability and instantaneity.
Out-of-pocket payments and economic consequences from tuberculosis care in eastern China: income inequality
Authors: Liu Yan , Xu Cai-Hong , Wang Xiao-Mo , Wang Zhen-Yu , Wang Yan-Hong , Zhang Hui , Wang Li
Published: February 2020

Background

Despite the availability of free tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment, TB care still generates substantial costs that push people into poverty. We investigated out-of-pocket (OOP) payments for TB care and assessed the resulting economic burden and economic consequences for those with varying levels of household income in eastern China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among TB patients in the national TB programme networks in eastern China. TB-related direct OOP costs, time loss, and coping strategies were investigated across households in different economic strata. Analysis of Variance was used to examine the differences in various costs, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the difference in total costs as a percentage of annual household income.

Results

Among 435 patients, the mean OOP total costs of TB care were USD 2389.5. In the lower-income quartile, OOP payments were lower, but costs as a percentage of reported annual household income were higher. Medical costs and costs prior to treatment accounted for 66.4 and 48.9% of the total costs, respectively. The lower the household income was, the higher the proportion of medical costs to total costs before TB treatment, but the lower the proportion of medical costs patients spent in the intensive phase. TB care caused 25.8% of TB-affected households to fall below the poverty line and caused the poverty gap (PG) to increase by United States Dollar (USD) 145.6. Patients in the poorest households had the highest poverty headcount ratio (70.2%) and PG (USD 236.1), but those in moderately poor households had the largest increase in the poverty headcount ratio (36.2%) and PG (USD 177.8) due to TB care. Patients from poor households were more likely to borrow money to cope with the costs of TB care; however, there were fewer social consequences, except for food insecurity, in poor households.

Conclusions

Medical and pretreatment costs lead to high costs of TB care, especially among patients from the poorest households. It is necessary to train health system staff in general hospitals to promptly identify and refer TB patients. Pro-poor programmes are also needed to protect TB patients from the medical poverty trap.
Evolution of Cochlear implant mapping and vestibular function in a pediatric case of Labyrinthitis
Authors: Lipson Sophie , O'Shea Ross , Gibbons Susan , Zhou Guangwei , Brodsky Jacob
Published: February 2020

Background

Vestibular symptoms such as vertigo and imbalance are known to occur in some cochlear implant patients during the immediate postoperative period; however, acute vertigo in implanted children occurring remotely from the postoperative period has not been previously well-described.

Case presentation

A three-year-old girl with a history of bilateral sequential cochlear implantation presented with acute labyrinthitis associated with sudden onset of vertigo, balance impairment, and decline in right cochlear implant function 2 years after her most recent implant surgery. We describe her audiological and vestibular testing results during both the acute phase and following medical management and recovery.

Conclusion

Acute labyrinthitis should be considered when sudden onset vertigo and/or imbalance presents in children with cochlear implants outside of the perioperative period. Such symptoms should prompt early assessment of cochlear implant function, so that the device can be reprogrammed accordingly.
Cytokine pre-activation of cryopreserved xenogeneic-free human mesenchymal stromal cells enhances resolution and repair following ventilator-induced lung injury potentially via a KGF-dependent mechanism
Authors: Horie Shahd , Gaynard Sean , Murphy Mary , Barry Frank , Scully Michael , O’Toole Daniel , Laffey John G.
Published: February 2020

Background

Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs) represent a promising therapeutic strategy for ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Translational challenges include restoring hMSC efficacy following cryopreservation, developing effective xenogeneic-free (XF) hMSCs and establishing true therapeutic potential at a clinically relevant time point of administration. We wished to determine whether cytokine pre-activation of cryopreserved, bone marrow-derived XF-hMSCs would enhance their capacity to facilitate injury resolution following VILI and elucidate mechanisms of action.

Methods

Initially, in vitro studies examined the potential for the secretome from cytokine pre-activated XF-hMSCs to attenuate pulmonary epithelial injury induced by cyclic mechanical stretch. Later, anaesthetised rats underwent VILI and, 6 h following injury, were randomized to receive 1 × 107XF-hMSC/kg that were (i) naive fresh, (ii) naive cryopreserved, (iii) cytokine pre-activated fresh or (iv) cytokine pre-activated cryopreserved, while control animals received (v) vehicle. The extent of injury resolution was measured at 24 h after injury. Finally, the role of keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) in mediating the effect of pre-activated XF-hMSCs was determined in a pulmonary epithelial wound repair model.

Results

Pre-activation enhanced the capacity of the XF-hMSC secretome to decrease stretch-induced pulmonary epithelial inflammation and injury. Both pre-activated fresh and cryopreserved XF-hMSCs enhanced resolution of injury following VILI, restoring oxygenation, improving lung compliance, reducing lung leak and improving resolution of lung structural injury. Finally, the secretome of pre-activated XF-hMSCs enhanced epithelial wound repair, in part via a KGF-dependent mechanism.

Conclusions

Cytokine pre-activation enhanced the capacity of cryopreserved, XF-hMSCs to promote injury resolution following VILI, potentially via a KGF-dependent mechanism.
Biomechanical diagnostics of the cornea
Authors: Esporcatte Louise Pellegrino Gomes , Salomão Marcella Q. , Lopes Bernardo T. , Vinciguerra Paolo , Vinciguerra Riccardo , Roberts Cynthia , Elsheikh Ahmed , Dawson Daniel G. , Ambrósio Renato
Published: February 2020

Corneal biomechanics has been a hot topic for research in contemporary ophthalmology due to its prospective applications in diagnosis, management, and treatment of several clinical conditions, including glaucoma, elective keratorefractive surgery, and different corneal diseases. The clinical biomechanical investigation has become of great importance in the setting of refractive surgery to identify patients at higher risk of developing iatrogenic ectasia after laser vision correction. This review discusses the latest developments in the detection of corneal ectatic diseases. These developments should be considered in conjunction with multimodal corneal and refractive imaging, including Placido-disk based corneal topography, Scheimpflug corneal tomography, anterior segment tomography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), very-high-frequency ultrasound (VHF-US), ocular biometry, and ocular wavefront measurements. The ocular response analyzer (ORA) and the Corvis ST are non-contact tonometry systems that provide a clinical corneal biomechanical assessment. More recently, Brillouin optical microscopy has been demonstrated to provide in vivo biomechanical measurements. The integration of tomographic and biomechanical data into artificial intelligence techniques has demonstrated the ability to increase the accuracy to detect ectatic disease and characterize the inherent susceptibility for biomechanical failure and ectasia progression, which is a severe complication after laser vision correction.
The influence of particle shape and mineralogy on the particle strength, breakage and compressibility
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Baudet Beatrice A. , Yao Ting
Published: February 2020

It is widely accepted that both particle shape and mineralogy could have a great effect on the particle strength. However, due to the complexity of nature grains, it is difficult to distinguish the influence of particle shape from mineralogy. This paper shows measurements of the particle shape and mineralogy of carbonate sand, completely decomposed granite, Leighton Buzzard sand and pumice sand. The particle shape of carbonate sand and completely decomposed granite is similar, but the mineral of carbonate sand is carbon dioxide while the mineral of completely decomposed granite is mica and feldspar. It is found that the single particle strength of completely decomposed granite is higher than that of carbonate sand, and the particle breakage caused by one-dimensional compressing tests of completely decomposed granite is higher than that of carbonate sand. The mineralogy of both completely decomposed granite and Leighton Buzzard sand are quartz, but completely decomposed granite is more heterogeneous, result in the single particle strength of completely decomposed granite is much lower than that of Leighton Buzzard sand. It is also found the particle breakage from the one-dimensional compression test for completely decomposed is larger than Leighton Buzzard sand. It should be noted that carbonate sand is stronger than completely decomposed granite after quantitatively analysis the particle shape, particle breakage and compressibility behavior although carbonate sand has extremely irregular shape such as a branch shape, and also several pores. On the other hand, although Leighton Buzzard sand, completely decomposed granite and also pumice sand to some extent have composition of silica, the crystal of those three is completely different, result in the strength or compressibility are quite different. It seems that particle shape is not a major factor to affect strength or compressibility, but the mineralogy could be a major factor.
3D printed CT-based abdominal structure mannequin for enabling research
Authors: Anwari Vahid , Lai Ashley , Ursani Ali , Rego Karina , Karasfi Behruz , Sajja Shailaja , Paul Narinder
Published: February 2020

An anthropomorphic phantom is a radiologically accurate, tissue realistic model of the human body that can be used for research into innovative imaging and interventional techniques, education simulation and calibration of medical imaging equipment. Currently available CT phantoms are appropriate tools for calibration of medical imaging equipment but have major disadvantages for research and educational simulation. They are expensive, lacking the realistic appearance and characteristics of anatomical organs when visualized during X-ray based image scanning. In addition, CT phantoms are not modular hence users are not able to remove specific organs from inside the phantom for research or training purposes. 3D printing technology has evolved and can be used to print anatomically accurate abdominal organs for a modular anthropomorphic mannequin to address limitations of existing phantoms. In this study, CT images from a clinical patient were used to 3D print the following organ shells: liver, kidneys, spleen, and large and small intestines. In addition, fatty tissue was made using modelling beeswax and musculature was modeled using liquid urethane rubber to match the radiological density of real tissue in CT Hounsfield Units at 120kVp. Similarly, all 3D printed organ shells were filled with an agar-based solution to mimic the radiological density of real tissue in CT Hounsfield Units at 120kVp. The mannequin has scope for applications in various aspects of medical imaging and education, allowing us to address key areas of clinical importance without the need for scanning patients.
Chinese practices of The Initiative on Promoting Inter-ethnic Unity and Common Progress
Authors: Sui Qing , Li Zhongxie , Sun Shuyi , Li Shiqiang , Chen Danhong
Published: February 2020

The work of Initiative on Promoting Inter-ethnic Unity and Common Progress (hereinafter referred to as “The Initiative Work”) originated from long-term historical practice and is a significant measure for China to promote inter-ethnic unity and progress. This article sorts out the development process of The Initiative Work in China, introduces the progress of its demonstration regions and units, elaborates the practices of The Initiative Work in the following aspects: consolidation of the top-level design, improvement of the quality and coverage, publicity of the national policies, cultivation of the demonstration models, management by the laws, and strengthening theoretical studies. This article also analyzes the shortcomings and challenges faced by the current work.
New mHealth application software based on myofunctional therapy applied to sleep-disordered breathing in non-compliant subjects
Authors: O’Connor Reina Carlos , Plaza Guillermo , Ignacio-Garcia Jose Maria , Baptista Jardin Peter , Garcia-Iriarte Maria Teresa , Casado-Morente Juan Carlos , De Vicente Gonzalez Eugenio , Rodriguez-Reina Agustin
Published: February 2020

Background

Myofunctional therapy (MT) is a therapeutic option with demonstrated efficacy for treating sleep-disordered breathing. We assessed the clinical application of a newly developed m-Health App, which aimed to allow patients with OSAHS (obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome) to perform oropharyngeal exercises only by interacting with their smartphone without no other devices.

Methods

We offered to treat the OSAHS of 20 patients with the App for 90 sessions. Inclusion criteria were adult patients diagnosed with OSAHS who rejected, or could not tolerate or afford treatment for their OSAHS with other modalities. The App was used by 15 patients, while 5 were noncompliant and then were used as a control group. Polygraphy was performed at the beginning of the study, and after 90 sessions in the App group or after 3 months in the control group. Data for adherence to treatment, sex, body mass index (BMI), age, O2MIN (oxygen minimal saturation) and apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) were collected for both groups.

Results

15 (75%) patients showed adherence to the treatment as measured as performing the exercises daily 5 days a week. In patients who performed the exercises, AHI decreased from 25.78 ± 12.6 to 14.1 ± 7,7 (p = 0.002), Epworth changed from 18,2 ± 1,98 to 14,2 ± 7,7(p = 0,002) and (O2MIN) changed from 84,87 ± 7.02 to 89,27 ± 3,77 (p = 0.0189). In the control group, there was no significant change.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study reported where a mHealth App based on MT could be by itself a therapeutic option in selected patients with OSAHS.
Variation in gut bacterial composition is associated with Haemonchus contortus parasite infection of sheep
Authors: Mamun Md. Abdullah Al , Sandeman Mark , Rayment Phil , Brook-Carter Phillip , Scholes Emily , Kasinadhuni Naga , Piedrafita David , Greenhill Andrew R.
Published: February 2020

Background

One of the greatest impediments to global small ruminant production is infection with the gastrointestinal parasite,Haemonchus contortus. In recent years there has been considerable interest in the gut microbiota and its impact on health. Relatively little is known about interactions between the gut microbiota and gastrointestinal tract pathogens in sheep. Thus, this study was undertaken to investigate the link between the faecal microbiota of sheep, as a sample representing the gastrointestinal microbiota, and infection withH. contortus.

Results

Sheep (n = 28) were experimentally inoculated with 14,000H. contortusinfective larvae. Faecal samples were collected 4 weeks prior to and 4 weeks after infection. Microbial analyses were conducted using automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A comparison of pre-infection microbiota to post-infection microbiota was conducted. A high parasite burden associated with a relatively large change in community composition, including significant (p ≤ 0.001) differences in the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes following infection. In comparison, low parasite burden associated with a smaller change in community composition, with the relative abundances of the most abundant phyla remaining stable. Interestingly, differences were observed in pre-infection faecal microbiota in sheep that went on to develop a high burden ofH. contortusinfection (n = 5) to sheep that developed a low burden of infection (n = 5). Differences observed at the community level and also at the taxa level, where significant (p ≤ 0.001) in relative abundance of Bacteroidetes (higher in high parasite burden sheep) and Firmicutes (lower in high parasite burden sheep).

Conclusions

This study reveals associations between faecal microbiota and high or lowH. contortusinfection in sheep. Further investigation is warranted to investigate causality and the impact of microbiome manipulation.
RAMAN AND ATR-FTIR SPECTROSCOPY TOWARDS CLASSIFICATION OF WET BLUE BOVINE LEATHER USING RATIOMETRIC AND CHEMOMETRIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Mehta Megha , Naffa Rafea , Maidment Catherine , Holmes Geoff , Waterland Mark
Published: February 2020

There is a substantial loss of value in bovine leather every year due to a leather quality defect known as “looseness”. Data show that 7% of domestic hide production is affected to some degree, with a loss of $35 m in export returns. This investigation is devoted to gaining a better understanding of tight and loose wet blue leather based on vibrational spectroscopy observations of its structural variations caused by physical and chemical changes that also affect the tensile and tear strength. Several regions from the wet blue leather were selected for analysis. Samples of wet blue bovine leather were collected and studied in the sliced form using Raman spectroscopy (using 532 nm excitation laser) and Attenuated Total Reflectance - Fourier Transform InfraRed (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. The purpose of this study was to use ATR-FTIR and Raman spectra to classify distal axilla (DA) and official sampling position (OSP) leather samples and then employ univariate or multivariate analysis or both. For univariate analysis, the 1448 cm− 1 (CH2 deformation) band and the 1669 cm− 1 (Amide I) band were used for evaluating the lipid-to-protein ratio from OSP and DA Raman and IR spectra as indicators of leather quality. Curve-fitting by the sums-of-Gaussians method was used to calculate the peak area ratios of 1448 and 1669 cm− 1 band. The ratio values obtained for DA and OSP are 0.57 ± 0.099, 0.73 ± 0.063 for Raman and 0.40 ± 0.06 and 0.50 ± 0.09 for ATR-FTIR. The results provide significant insight into how these regions can be classified. Further, to identify the spectral changes in the secondary structures of collagen, the Amide I region (1600–1700 cm− 1) was investigated and curve-fitted-area ratios were calculated. The 1648:1681 cm− 1 (non-reducing: reducing collagen types) band area ratios were used for Raman and 1632:1650 cm− 1 (triple helix: α-like helix collagen) for IR. The ratios show a significant difference between the two classes. To support this qualitative analysis, logistic regression was performed on the univariate data to classify the samples quantitatively into one of the two groups. Accuracy for Raman data was 90% and for ATR-FTIR data 100%. Both Raman and ATR-FTIR complemented each other very well in differentiating the two groups. As a comparison, and to reconfirm the classification, multivariate analysis was performed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). The results obtained indicate good classification between the two leather groups based on protein and lipid content. Principal component score 2 (PC2) distinguishes OSP and DA by symmetrically grouping samples at positive and negative extremes. The study demonstrates an excellent model for wider research on vibrational spectroscopy for early and rapid diagnosis of leather quality.

Graphical abstract
A new genus and species of foliicolous lichen in a new family of Strigulales (Ascomycota: Dothideomycetes) reveals remarkable class-level homoplasy
Authors: Jiang Shu Hua , Hawksworth David L. , Lücking Robert , Wei Jiang Chun
Published: February 2020

Phylogenetic analysis of some foliicolous lichens collected in Hainan Province, China, revealed a new lineage morphologically similar to Porina but phylogenetically related to Strigulaceae (Dothideomycetes), differing from the latter in ascus type. The monospecific genus Tenuitholiascus gen. nov. is introduced for the single species, T. porinoides sp. nov., which is placed in the new, monogeneric family Tenuitholiascaceae, sister to Strigulaceae in Strigulales. The new taxon closely resembles the genus Porina in external morphology and ascospore type, as well as the thin-walled asci and unbranched paraphyses. Yet, it is entirely unrelated to the latter, which belongs in class Lecanoromycetes in the order Gyalectales.
Assisted reproductive technology and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Maryam , Khedmati Morasae Esmaeil , Maroufizadeh Saman , Almasi-Hashiani Amir , Navid Behnaz , Amini Payam , Omani-Samani Reza , Alizadeh Ahad
Published: February 2020

Background

The use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) is increasing worldwide, and observational studies have indicated that women who conceived by ART have an increased risk of pregnancy complications including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We aimed to determine the risk of GDM among women who conceived with ART by systematic review and meta-analysis.

Main text

A systematic literature search was conducted in ISI Web of Knowledge, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase through May 2017 for English-language articles using a list of keywords. All studies comparing GDM in women conceived by ART and those who conceived spontaneously were included. Data extraction was performed by two authors independently and discrepancies were resolved by discussion. In total, 48 studies with 91,487 pregnancies conceived through ART and 2,525,234 spontaneously conceived met the inclusion criteria. There was evidence of substantial heterogeneity among these studies (P < 0.001, I2 = 98.6%). Random effects meta-analysis showed a significant increase in GDM among those who conceived by ART compared with those who conceived spontaneously (pooled relative risk = 1.51, 95% confidence interval = 1.18–1.93). Visual inspection of the funnel plot did not reveal any publication bias, which was supported by Egger’s test and Begg’s test.

Conclusion

The findings of this systematic review indicate that the use of ART treatment is associated with a 1.51-fold increase in GDM. Women need to be counselled carefully before undergoing ART treatment about the possibility and risk of GDM.
Influence of chronotype on daily mood fluctuations: pilot study in patients with depression
Authors: Brückmann Konstantin F. , Hennig Jürgen , Müller Matthias J. , Fockenberg Stanislava , Schmidt Anne-Marthe , Cabanel Nicole , Kundermann Bernd
Published: February 2020

Depression risk is associated with a late chronotype pattern often described as an ‘evening chronotype’. Fluctuations in mood over consecutive days have not yet been measured according to chronotype in in-patients with depression. A total of 30 in-patients with depression and 32 healthy controls matched for gender and age completed a chronotype questionnaire and twice-daily ratings on mood for 10 consecutive days (registered in the German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00010215). The in-patients had Saturdays and Sundays as hospital-leave days. The relationship between chronotype and daily mood was mediated by the weekday–weekend schedule with higher levels of negative affect in the evening-chronotype patient subgroup at weekends. Results are discussed with respect to a probably advantageous standardised clinical setting with early morning routines, especially for patients with evening chronotypes.
Staff training in positive behaviour support for behaviour that challenges in people with intellectual disability: cost-utility analysis of a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hunter Rachael Maree , Vickerstaff Victoria , Poppe Michaela , Strydom Andre , King Michael , Hall Ian , Crabtree Jason , Omar Rumana , Cooper Vivien , Biswas Asit , Hassiotis Angela
Published: February 2020

Background

Behaviour that challenges in people with intellectual disability is associated with higher healthcare, social care and societal costs. Although behavioural therapies are widely used, there is limited evidence regarding the cost and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).

Aims

We aimed to assess the incremental cost per QALY gained of therapist training in positive behaviour support (PBS) and treatment as usual (TAU) compared with TAU using data from a cluster randomised controlled trial (Clinical Trials.gov registration: NCT01680276).

Method

We conducted a cost-utility analysis (cost per QALY gained) of 23 teams randomised to PBS or TAU, with a total of 246 participants followed up over 36 months. The primary analysis was from a healthcare cost perspective with a secondary analysis from a societal cost perspective.

Results

Over 36 months the intervention resulted in an additional 0.175 QALYs (discounted and adjusted 95% CI −0.068 to 0.418). The total cost of training in and delivery of PBS is £1598 per participant plus an additional cost of healthcare of £399 (discounted and adjusted 95% CI −603 to 1724). From a healthcare cost perspective there is an 85% probability that the intervention is cost-effective compared with TAU at a £30 000 willingness to pay for a QALY threshold.

Conclusions

There was a high probability that training in PBS is cost-effective as the cost of training and delivery of PBS is balanced out by modest improvements in quality of life. However, staff training in PBS is not supported given we found no evidence for clinical effectiveness.
Role of Hospice Care at the End of Life for People With Cancer
Authors: Currow David C. , Agar Meera R. , Phillips Jane L.
Published: February 2020

Patient-defined factors that are important at the end of life include being physically independent for as long as possible, good symptom control, and spending quality time with friends and family. Hospice care adds to the quality of care and these patient-centered priorities for people with cancer and their families in the last weeks and days of life. Evidence from large observational studies demonstrate that hospice care can improve outcomes directly and support better and more appropriate health care use for people in the last stages of cancer.

Team-based community hospice care has measurable benefits for patients, their family caregivers, and health services. In addition to improved symptom control for patients and a greater likelihood of time spent at home, caregiver outcomes are better when hospice care is accessed: informational needs are better met, and caregivers have an improved ability to move on with life after the patient’s death compared with people who did not have access to these services.

Hospice care continues to evolve as its reach expands and the needs of patients continue to broaden. This is reflected in the transition from hospice being based on excellence in nursing to teams with a broad range of health professionals to meet the complex and changing needs of patients and their families. Additional integration of cancer services with hospice care will help to provide more seamless care for patients and supporting family caregivers during their caregiving and after the death of the patient.
Pediatric Palliative Care in Oncology
Authors: Snaman Jennifer , McCarthy Sarah , Wiener Lori , Wolfe Joanne
Published: February 2020

Pediatric palliative care aims to alleviate suffering and improve the quality of life of children with serious disease and increase support for their parents and other family members. Integration of palliative care into the routine care of children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer has resulted in improved outcomes in patients and their families. The field of pediatric palliative oncology—encompassing primary palliative care provided by the multidisciplinary oncology team as well as subspecialty palliative care provided by the palliative care team for more complex cases—is unique from palliative care in adults given its focus on care of the child and the larger family. In this review, we focus on advancements in the specific domains within pediatric palliative oncology care including family-centered communication, assessment and management of physical symptoms and distress, psychosocial concerns, and spiritual considerations of the patient, parents, and siblings.
Patient-Clinician Communication Issues in Palliative Care for Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Back Anthony L.
Published: February 2020

The delivery of palliative care to patients with advanced cancer and their families, whether done by oncology clinicians or palliative care clinicians, requires patient-centered communication. Excellent communication can introduce patients and families to palliative care in a nonthreatening way, build patient trust, enable symptom control, strengthen coping, and guide decision making. This review covers deficiencies in the current state of communication, patient preferences for communication about palliative care topics, best practices for communication, and the roles of education and system intervention. Communication is a two-way, relational process that is influenced by context, culture, words, and gestures, and it is one of the most important ways that clinicians influence the quality of medical care that patients and their families receive.
Impact of Merit-Based Immigration Policies on Brain Drain From Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: El Saghir Nagi S. , Anderson Benjamin O. , Gralow Julie , Lopes Gilberto , Shulman Lawrence N. , Moukadem Hiba A. , Yu Peter Paul , Hortobagyi Gabriel
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE

Brain drain is the migration of educated and skilled individuals from a less developed region or country to a more economically established one. The Trump administration proposed a merit-based immigration plan. This article addresses its potential impact on health care delivery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and their preparedness to deal with it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on immigration policies, numbers of international medical graduates practicing in high-income countries (HICs), various scientific exchange methods, and efforts for capacity building in LMICs.

RESULTS

Talented individuals seek to advance their knowledge and skills, and may stay in HICs because of greater rewards and opportunities. HICs also rely on immigrant international medical graduates to supplement their physician workforces.

CONCLUSION

Ambitious individuals from LMICs need and should have opportunities to advance their education and training in more advanced countries. LMICs should increase their educational efforts, research capabilities, infrastructures, and living conditions to better serve their own populations and reduce their brain drain phenomenon.
Pre-operative CT localization for patients with subsolid opacities expecting video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery—single center experience of fluorescent iodized emulsion and hook-wire localization technique
Authors: Li Allen , Chan S , Thung KH
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To describe our clinical experience of using combination of fluorescent iodized emulsion, indocyanine green & lipiodol, and hook-wire in pre-operative CT localization of patients with subsolid lung lesions prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Methods:

A retrospective review between June 2018 and July 2019 of consecutive Chinese patients whom underwent VATS for subsolid lung lesions with pre-operative CT localization done with combination of fluorescent iodized emulsion and hook-wire technique in a tertiary hospital (Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong SAR). The duration and complications related to the localization procedure were recorded The clinical records, operative findings and pathology reports were retrieved from the hospital electronic clinical management system.

Results:

Combination fluorescent iodized emulsion with hook-wire enabled accurate localization and resection of all subsolid lung lesions in VATS. No major complications were reported.

Conclusion:

Combination of fluorescent iodized emulsion and hook-wire placement under CT guidance is a simple, safe and cost- effective procedure that enabled accurate localization and resection of subsolid nodule in VATS.

Advances in knowledge:

VATS has been the mainstay for indeterminate pulmonary nodules for diagnostic and/or curative purpose. The main problem that surgeons may encounter during operation is the difficulty in locating the target lesion particularly for subsolid lesions. Many pre-operative localization methods have been developed in this regard. With the novel technique that we described, we were able to overcome disadvantages of most described methods.
Diversity and distribution of fish fauna of upstream and downstream areas at Koto Panjang Reservoir, Riau Province, Indonesia
Authors: Aryani Netti , Suharman Indra , Azrita Azrita , Syandri Hafrijal , Mardiah Ainul
Published: February 2020

Background: The capture fishery sectors in the river and reservoir play an important role in the Indonesian economy through increased income and diversification of livelihoods. The present study was conducted to ascertain fish diversity and their distribution pattern in the upstream and downstream areas of Koto Panjang Reservoir, Riau Province-Indonesia.

Methods: Fish samples were collected for a period of 12 months using a variety of fish nets at four sites; Koto Mesjid (KM) and Batu Bersurat (BB), located in the upstream area of Koto Panjang Reservoir and Rantau Berangin (RB) and Kuok (KK), located in the downstream area of Koto Panjang Reservoir. Data obtained were analyzed using standard taxonomic keys based on morphometric characters.

Results: A total of 44 species belonging 19 families and 33 genera were recorded in the study area. Alpha diversity indices showed that fish diversity in this area was quite high (Shannon’s index = 2.10 and Simpson-D = 0.21) and evenness was low (evenness H/S =0.19). The ﬁsh in KM and BB sites (upstream) were from eight and 11 families, respectively. In RB and KK sites (downstream), fish were from 16 and 15 families, respectively. In KM, BB, RB and KK sites, the dominant family was Cyprinidae, comprising 33.45%, 50.95%, 43.04% and 39.35% of all fish caught at each site, respectively. Exotic species, especially Nile tilapia, were 20.15%, 14.11%, 5.62%, and 5.34%, respectively. Some differences were also noted between the upstream and downstream reservoirs, with a slight increase in exotic species in the upstream reservoir over the study period (from 11.39% vs. 34.66%), corresponding to decrease of native species (from 88.61% vs. 65.34%).

Conclusions: The diversity and distribution of fish fauna were varied in upstream and downstream areas of Koto Panjang Reservoir. The exotic species were found to be dominant in the upstream reservoir areas.
Internal replication of computational workflows in scientific research
Authors: Benjamin-Chung Jade , Colford, Jr. John M. , Mertens Andrew , Hubbard Alan E. , Arnold Benjamin F.
Published: February 2020

Failures to reproduce research findings across scientific disciplines from psychology to physics have garnered increasing attention in recent years. External replication of published findings by outside investigators has emerged as a method to detect errors and bias in the published literature. However, some studies influence policy and practice before external replication efforts can confirm or challenge the original contributions. Uncovering and resolving errors before publication would increase the efficiency of the scientific process by increasing the accuracy of published evidence. Here we summarize the rationale and best practices for internal replication, a process in which multiple independent data analysts replicate an analysis and correct errors prior to publication. We explain how internal replication should reduce errors and bias that arise during data analyses and argue that it will be most effective when coupled with pre-specified hypotheses and analysis plans and performed with data analysts masked to experimental group assignments. By improving the reproducibility of published evidence, internal replication should contribute to more rapid scientific advances.