bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The crosstalk between microbiome and asthma: Exploring associations and challenges
Authors: Abdel‐Aziz Mahmoud I. , Vijverberg Susanne J. H. , Neerincx Anne H. , Kraneveld Aletta D. , Maitland‐van der Zee Anke H.
Published: May 2019

With the advancement of high‐throughput DNA/RNA sequencing and computational analysis techniques, commensal bacteria are now considered almost as important as pathological ones. Understanding the interaction between these bacterial microbiota, host and asthma is crucial to reveal their role in asthma pathophysiology. Several airway and/or gut microbiome studies have shown associations between certain bacterial taxa and asthma. However, challenges remain before gained knowledge from these studies can be implemented into clinical practice, such as inconsistency between studies in choosing sampling compartments and/or sequencing approaches, variability of results in asthma studies, and not taking into account medication intake and diet composition especially when investigating gut microbiome. Overcoming those challenges will help to better understand the complex asthma disease process. The therapeutic potential of using pro‐ and prebiotics to prevent or reduce risk of asthma exacerbations requires further investigation. This review will focus on methodological issues regarding setting up a microbiome study, recent developments in asthma bacterial microbiome studies, challenges and future therapeutic potential.
Advertising ‘Happy’ Children: The Settler Family, Happiness and the Indigenous Child Removal System
Authors: Bendo Daniella , Hepburn Taryn , Spencer Dale C. , Sinclair Raven
Published: May 2019

We analyse 4300 advertisements of children featured in theToday's Childcolumn, a daily written by Helen Allen inThe Toronto TelegramandThe Toronto Starfrom 1964 to 1982, to understand how the Canadian public became accepting of the adoption of Indigenous children. While children of all ethnic backgrounds were featured, the Indigenous children who were displayed were part of a larger system of child removal, known as the ‘Sixties Scoop’. We demonstrate the ways Indigenous children are described with a specific form of happiness that is conjoined with colonial conceptions of the family and nation.
Talk on the Playground: The Neighborhood Context of School Choice
Authors: Bader Michael D. M. , Lareau Annette , Evans Shani A.
Published: May 2019

Despite consensus that neighborhoods influence children's outcomes, we know less about the mechanisms that cause neighborhood inequality and produce those outcomes. Existing research overlooks how social networks develop among people at similar points in the life course through repeated interactions in neighborhoods. Existing studies do not illuminate the ways in which these geographically based networks can influence life–altering decisions. In this article, we use qualitative interviews with White, middle–class parents in gentrifying neighborhoods in a large Northeastern city to examine how parents decided where to send their children to kindergarten. Parents reported relying heavily on information that they received from their network of other neighborhood parents whom they had befriended on the playground or at daycare in the course of their daily child–rearing routines. The daily routines of child rearing led to rich and important social networks. But tensions also emerged among parents as they made different decisions about where to send their children to kindergarten. By focusing on how life course stages affect how people use space and interact in neighborhood spaces, we can better understand how neighborhood spaces shape the decision–making process of school choice.
Retracted: Increased maternal serum placental growth hormone variant in pregnancies complicated by otosclerosis
Authors: Liao Shutan , Lu Shan , Li Guangliang , Chen Ruiying
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate the potential role of maternal serum concentrations of placental growth hormone variant (GH‐V), insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) 1 and 2, and IGF‐binding proteins (IGFBP) 1 and 3 in pregnancies complicated by otosclerosis.

Method

Otosclerosis cases (n = 22) and age, ethnicity‐matched controls (n = 22) were selected in a nested case‐control study. Maternal serum hormone concentrations at 26 and 34 weeks of gestation were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Concentrations of all measured hormones except IGFBP‐1 were increased as gestation progressed. Maternal serum GH‐V concentrations at 26 and 34 weeks of gestation were significantly increased in the otosclerosis group, when compared to the control group (2.53 ± 0.17 ng/ml vs. 1.78 ± 0.19 ng/ml, P = 0.036; 4.34 ± 0.31 ng/ml vs. 3.12 ± 0.18 ng/ml, P < 0.001, respectively). Maternal serum IGF‐1 concentrations at 34 weeks in otosclerotic patients were significantly higher than in the controls (589.1 ± 21.4 ng/ml vs. 499.7 ± 17.8 ng/ml, P < 0.001). The increase of IGF‐1 was not observed at 26 weeks of gestation. Serum IGF‐2, IGFBP‐1 and IGFBP‐3 at either 26 or 34 weeks were unaltered between the two groups.

Conclusion

Maternal serum concentrations of GH‐V and IGF‐1 were altered in pregnancy complicated by otosclerosis, suggesting that the GH‐IGF axis may contribute to the development of this condition during pregnancy.
Loss of ZNF750 in ocular and cutaneous sebaceous carcinoma
Authors: North Jeffrey P. , Solomon David A. , Golovato Justin , Bloomer Michele , Benz Stephen C. , Cho Raymond J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Sebaceous carcinoma (SeC) is an uncommon malignancy arising from sebaceous glands of the conjunctiva and skin. Recurrent mutations in the ZNF750 were recently identified in ocular SeC. We assessed whether ZNF750 loss is a specific feature of ocular SeC or a general feature of sebaceous tumors.

Methods

Immunostaining for ZNF750 expression was performed in 54 benign and malignant sebocytic proliferations. Staining for ZNF750 was scored on a three‐tier scale: positive (>75%), partially positive (5%‐74%), and negative (<5%).

Results

ZNF750 expression was negative in 4/11 ocular SeC, and partially positive in 4/11 ocular SeC and 6/13 cutaneous SeC. No extraocular tumors were negative. No loss was found in sebaceous adenoma or sebaceous hyperplasia. In nine previously sequenced ocular SeCs, two lacked detectable somatic mutations in ZNF750, but showed complete loss of staining, indicating non‐mutational inactivation of ZNF750.

Conclusion

We show complete loss of the ZNF750 epidermal differentiation regulator in about half of ocular SeC, highlighting the most common genetic defect in this cancer type. Loss of ZNF750 expression is seen even in tumors without truncating mutations and reduced in many of the remaining ocular and cutaneous SeC. In contrast, no ZNF750 loss was detected in benign sebaceous proliferations.
Review of genodermatoses with characteristic histopathology and potential diagnostic delay
Authors: Ko Christine J. , Atzmony Lihi , Lim Young , McNiff Jennifer M. , Craiglow Brittany G. , Antaya Richard J. , Choate Keith A.
Published: May 2019

Advances in human genetics have enabled discovery of new genes for inherited skin diseases and cutaneous malformations as well as refined categorization of genodermatoses. Careful phenotyping has been central to genetic discoveries, and it provides critical clues for clinical diagnoses, particularly when the skin disorder is not congenital. This article will review several lesser‐known genodermatoses that often present after infancy with recognizable histopathologic features.
Two‐year analysis of dermatological out‐of‐hours consultations at Frankfurt University Hospital
Authors: Osowski Sebastian A. , Wagner Niklas , Osowski Andreas C. , Ochsendorf Falk , Kaufmann Roland , Weberschock Tobias
Published: May 2019

Background

In recent years, emergency consultations have become more common in all medical disciplines. In Germany, dermatological out‐of‐hours consultations are handled by emergency practices, emergency departments and tertiary care providers. Little information is available on the reasons for these dermatological consultations.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze patient characteristics, diagnoses and admission rates resulting from these consultations.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study covering two years of out‐of‐hours consultations at a dermatological tertiary referral center.

Results

A total of 3635 patients presented at the referral center. The most frequent outpatient diagnoses were acute urticaria (13.8 %) and bacterial infections (12.3 %). 83 % of the outpatient diagnoses required the most advanced competence level according to the new German curriculum for undergraduate education of medical students. 405 (11.01 %) patients did not require dermatological treatment, and 430 patients (13.6 %) were admitted to hospital. Most admissions were due to bacterial infections and herpes zoster. Advanced age, pain and fever were associated with a relatively high risk of admission.

Conclusions

Admission rates at the dermatological tertiary referral center were substantially lower than at interdisciplinary emergency departments. A few diagnoses accounted for more than half of all consultations. These diagnoses are well represented within the new German curriculum.
Two‐dimensional strain echocardiography‐derived left ventricular ejection fraction, volumes, and global systolic dyssynchrony index: Comparison with three‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Vaidya Gaurang Nandkishor , Salgado Benjamin C. , Badar Faraz , John Anub , Stoddard Marcus F.
Published: May 2019

Background

Three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography is the most accurate echocardiographic method for ventricular chamber quantification. It is unclear how two‐dimensional (2D) techniques perform against 3D technology and whether 2D methods can be extrapolated to obtain 3D data.

Methods

Retrospective review of transthoracic echocardiography was performed, with comparison of ejection fraction (EF), end‐diastolic volume (EDV), end‐systolic volume (ESV), and 2D strain‐derived global longitudinal strain (GLS) and synchrony index.

Results

One‐hundred patients were identified. Using 3D echocardiography as reference standard, good correlation was noted with 2D strain‐derived EF (r = 0.89, P < 0.01) and with 2D standard biplane EF (r = 0.90, P < 0.01) and similarly for EDV (r = 0.84 and r = 0.81, respectively, both P < 0.01). Two‐dimensional strain‐derived EDV by 8% and 2D biplane‐derived EDV underestimated by 8% (P < 0.01). In relation to 3D EF, 2D strain underestimated by 2% and 2D standard biplane overestimated by 2% (P < 0.01). There was a negative correlation between GLS and 3D EF (r = 0.84, P = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, 3D EF could be derived from 2D strain [3D EF = 34.345 + (0.125 * EDV) + (−0.289 * ESV) + (−1.141 * GLS)]. Three‐dimensional echocardiography‐derived synchrony parameter (ie, standard deviation from mean time to minimum systolic volume from 16 subvolumes) did not correlate with 2D strain‐derived synchrony index (r = 0.171).

Conclusions

Two‐dimensional standard biplane and 2D strain EF and EDV strongly correlate with 3D EF and EDV. Although 2D methods are predictive of 3D findings, over‐ and underestimations may occur. Three‐dimensional echocardiography should be used when available.
Mechanisms, pathophysiology, and diagnostic imaging of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction following mitral valve surgery and transcatheter mitral valve replacement
Authors: Silbiger Jeffrey J. , Lee Samantha , Christia Panagiota , Perk Gila
Published: May 2019

Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction is a serious complication of mitral valve surgery (repair and replacement) and transcatheter mitral valve replacement. An appreciation of the various mechanisms which cause outflow obstruction in these settings is critical to avoiding this complication and to initiating appropriate treatment. This article discusses the mechanisms, pathophysiology, and imaging of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction which can arise following insertion of a variety of mitral valve prosthetics.
Elastic aortic properties in cystic fibrosis adults without cardiovascular risk factors: A case‐control study
Authors: Vizzardi Enrico , Sciatti Edoardo , Bonadei Ivano , Menotti Elisa , Prati Francesco , Scodro Marta , Dallapellegrina Lucia , Berlendis Marialma , Poli Piercarlo , Padoan Rita , Metra Marco
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The presence of CFTR in smooth muscle and endothelial cells, systemic inflammation, and oxidative stress could explain vascular alterations in cystic fibrosis. Aortic elastic properties are determinants of left ventricular function by means of ventriculo‐arterial coupling and indicators of cardiovascular risk.

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to compare clinically stable patients affected by cystic fibrosis without overt pulmonary hypertension with controls to evaluate aortic tissue Doppler elastic properties, such as distensibility, stiffness, and strain.

Methods

A total of 22 adults affected by cystic fibrosis, and 24 healthy volunteers matched for age and sex were enrolled. None had known cardiovascular risk factors, secondary diabetes, neither aortic stenosis nor regurgitation. All people underwent blood pressure measurement and transthoracic echocardiography.

Results

Aortic diameter measured at Valsalva sinuses was significantly higher in patients with cystic fibrosis than healthy people, median 32.0 (interquartile range 29.8–35.0) vs 24.3 (22.2–30.0) mm; P < 0.001. Aortic distensibility was significantly lower among patients than controls, being 2.4 (1.3–3.3) vs 5.6 (3.4–8.3) per mm Hg (P < 0.001), while stiffness higher, 7.7 (6.0–14.8) vs 3.7 (2.9–6.7); P < 0.001. Finally, M‐mode strain of ascending aorta was lower in patients, 4.1 (3.4–7.3)% than in controls, 13.4 (7.7–19.4)%; P < 0.001.

Conclusion

For the first time in humans, we demonstrated subclinical alterations in aortic elastic properties in young adults affected by cystic fibrosis without pulmonary hypertension or secondary diabetes. This phenomenon could influence left ventricular function earlier by means of ventriculo‐arterial coupling and may be a tool to identify patients who benefit from a closer follow‐up.
Successful biventricular cardiac resynchronization therapy in a failing Fontan patient: Implications of ventriculo‐ventricular interdependency in single ventricle physiology
Authors: Udink ten Cate Floris E. A. , Germund Ingo , Goossens Stijn S. , Bennink Gerardus , Sreeram Narayanswami
Published: May 2019

We describe a Fontan patient with severe heart failure who was successfully treated with biventricular cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Our case shows that strain imaging might play a crucial role in guiding placement of pacing leads and in characterizing the electromechanical substrate associated with a favorable CRT response. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time that ventriculo‐ventricular interdependency seems an important mechanical concept, which can be utilized to augment cardiac performance in failing Fontan patients with a functional hypoplastic ventricle.
Comparative responses of termite functional and taxonomic diversity to land‐use change
Authors: Liu Shengjie , Lin Xiaobing , Behm Jocelyn E. , Yuan Hao , Stiblik Petr , Šobotník Jan , Gan Jianmin , Xia Shangwen , Yang Xiaodong
Published: May 2019

1. While it is clear that land‐use change significantly impacts the taxonomic dimension of soil biodiversity, how the functional dimension responds to land‐use change is less well understood.

2. This study examined how the transformation of primary forests into rubber tree monocultures impacts individual termite species and how this change is reflected in termite taxonomic and functional α‐diversity (within site) and β‐diversity (among sites).

3. Overall, individual species responded strongly to land‐use change, whereby only 11 of the 27 species found were able to tolerate both habitats. These differences caused a 27% reduction in termite taxonomic richness and reduced taxonomic β‐diversity in rubber plantations compared with primary forests. The study also revealed that the forest conversion led to a shift in some termite species with smaller body size, shorter legs and smaller mandibular traits. Primary forests exhibited higher functional richness and functional β‐diversity of termite species, indicating that functional traits of termite species in rubber plantations are more evenly distributed.

4. The present study suggests that forest conversion does not merely decrease taxonomic diversity of termites, but also exerts functional trait filtering within some termite species. The results affirm the need for biodiversity assessments that combine taxonomic and functional indicators when monitoring the impact of land‐use change.
When and where plant‐soil feedback may promote plant coexistence: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Crawford Kerri M. , Bauer Jonathan T. , Comita Liza S. , Eppinga Maarten B. , Johnson Daniel J. , Mangan Scott A. , Queenborough Simon A. , Strand Allan E. , Suding Katharine N. , Umbanhowar James , Bever James D.
Published: May 2019

Plant‐soil feedback (PSF) theory provides a powerful framework for understanding plant dynamics by integrating growth assays into predictions of whether soil communities stabilise plant–plant interactions. However, we lack a comprehensive view of the likelihood of feedback‐driven coexistence, partly because of a failure to analyse pairwise PSF, the metric directly linked to plant species coexistence. Here, we determine the relative importance of plant evolutionary history, traits, and environmental factors for coexistence through PSF using a meta‐analysis of 1038 pairwise PSF measures. Consistent with eco‐evolutionary predictions, feedback is more likely to mediate coexistence for pairs of plant species (1) associating with similar guilds of mycorrhizal fungi, (2) of increasing phylogenetic distance, and (3) interacting with native microbes. We also found evidence for a primary role of pathogens in feedback‐mediated coexistence. By combining results over several independent studies, our results confirm that PSF may play a key role in plant species coexistence, species invasion, and the phylogenetic diversification of plant communities.
Native and alien flower visitors differ in partner fidelity and network integration
Authors: Trøjelsgaard Kristian , Heleno Ruben , Traveset Anna
Published: May 2019

Globalisation persistently fuels the establishment of non‐native species outside their natural ranges. While alien plants have been intensively studied, little is known about alien flower visitors, and especially, how they integrate into natural communities. Here, we focus on mutualistic networks from five Galápagos islands to quantify whether alien and native flower visitors differ consistently in their pairwise interactions. We find that (1) alien flower visitors have more interaction partners and larger species strengths (i.e. plants are more connected to alien insects), (2) native insects tend to have higher partner fidelity as they deviate more from random partner utilisation, and iii) the difference between native and alien flower visitors in network integration intensifies with island degradation. Thus, native and alien flower visitors are not interchangeable, and alien establishment might have yet unforeseen consequences for the pairwise dynamics between plants and flower visitors on the Galápagos – especially on the heavily disturbed islands.
New Pseudococcidae species on Cupressus macrocarpa in Tunisia: first report of Planococcus vovae
Authors: Ben Halima Kamel M. , Mdellel L. , Zouari S. , Germain J. F.
Published: May 2019

In May 2017 and 2018, Planococcus vovae (Nasonov) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) was collected in Hammam Sousse (Tunisia) on the ornamental plant Cupressus macrocarpa (Cupressaceae). The infestation was observed on needles which showed symptoms of desiccation and chlorosis. This is the first record of P. vovae in Tunisia and in North Africa.
The residual dentition among New Zealanders in aged residential care
Authors: Hyland Natalie , Smith Moira B. , Gribben Barry , Thomson William M.
Published: May 2019

Background

Descriptions of the older population's dentition status are usually limited to indicators such as the edentulous proportion, the mean number of restored and missing teeth, and the proportion with a functional dentition, with very few reports describing in detail the nature of the residual dentition.

Objectives

This study described the residual dentition among older New Zealanders living in residential aged care facilities.

Material and Methods

Using national data from the Older People's Oral Health Survey, we determined the residual dentition arrangement and Kennedy classification for each dental arch. Individuals were categorised according to their maxillary‐mandibular dental configuration. Data were weighted to make the estimates generalisable to the source population.

Results

Among the dentate 45% of the 987 clinically examined participants, the most prevalent configuration was maxillary tooth‐bounded saddles against a partially dentate lower (24.7%; 95% CI: 20.4, 29.7). More younger participants generally had less tooth loss experience and had higher prevalence of Kennedy Classes II, III and IV. There were few sex differences, although more females had a fully dentate arch. Marked ethnic differences were observed: Māori were up to eight times as likely to have only mandibular anterior teeth remaining. Upper dentures were worn more than their lower counterpart. Age, sex and ethnic characteristics were associated with particular residual teeth configurations.

Conclusions

Having various degrees of tooth loss was the norm, with the upper tooth‐bounded saddles against any partially dentate lower combination most common, and limited to females. An edentulous maxilla opposed by some standing teeth was observed in over one‐quarter of the population, and most common among Māori and those who were older. Maxillary prostheses were much more common than mandibular ones. Caring for dentate older people in aged residential care is likely to be complicated by the wide range of dentition configurations.
Chronobiology and Sleep in Cluster Headache
Authors: de Coo Ilse F. , van Oosterhout Willebrordus P. J. , Wilbrink Leopoldine A. , van Zwet Erik W. , Ferrari Michel D. , Fronczek Rolf
Published: May 2019

Background

Cluster headache attacks follow a striking circadian rhythm with an intriguing influence of sleep. We aim to investigate differences in sleep quality, chronotype, and the ability to alter individual sleep rhythms in episodic and chronic cluster headache patients vs controls.

Methods

Cluster headache patients and non‐headache controls from the Dutch Leiden University Cluster headache neuro‐Analysis program aged 18 and above completed web‐based questionnaires in a cross‐sectional study.

Results

A total of 478 episodic, 147 chronic cluster headache patients and 367 controls participated. Chronic cluster headache patients had more often early chronotypes than controls, as measured by mid‐sleep phase (P = .021 adjusted B −15.85 minutes CI −29.30; −2.40). Compared to controls, chronic cluster headache participants were less able to alter their sleep rhythms (P < .001 adjusted B −1.65 CI −2.55; 0.74), while episodic cluster headache participants reported more difficulty in coping with reduced sleep (P = .025 adjusted B 0.75 CI 0.09; 1.40). Sleep quality was reduced in both types of cluster headache compared to controls (“poor sleepers”: 71.4% (105/147) in chronic and 48.3% (235/367) in episodic cluster headache vs 25.6% (94/367) in controls; both P < .001; episodic adjusted B −1.71 CI 0.10; 0.32; chronic adjusted B −0.93 CI 0.24; 0.65).

Conclusion

Sleep quality is decreased in both episodic and chronic cluster headache, most likely caused by cluster headache attacks that strike during the night. Episodic cluster headache patients report more difficulty in coping with reduced sleep, while chronic patients are less able to alter their sleep rhythm. Although not directly proven, cluster headache patients will likely benefit from a structured, regular daily schedule.
Lower serum adiponectin level is associated with lipodystrophy amongHIV‐infected men in the Study to Understand the Natural History ofHIV/AIDSin the Era of Effective Therapy (SUN) study
Authors: Klos B , Patel P , Rose C , Bush T , Conley L , Kojic EM , Henry K , Brooks JT , Hammer J ,   the SUN study investigators
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Adiponectin levels are inversely related to cardiovascular risk and are low in diabetics and obese persons. We examined the association between adiponectin concentration andHIV‐associated lipodystrophy, which remains unclear.

Methods

The Study to Understand the Natural History ofHIV/AIDSin the Era of Effective Therapy (SUN) was a prospective cohort study ofHIV‐infected adults conducted in four US cities. Lean body and fat masses were assessed using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scans. Using baseline data from 2004 to 2006, we defined lipodystrophy using a sex‐specific fat mass ratio and performed cross‐sectional analyses of associated risks using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among 440 male participants (median age 42 years; 68% non‐Hispanic white; 88% prescribed combination antiretroviral therapy; medianCD4 lymphocyte count 468 cells/μL; 76% with viral load < 400 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL; 5% diabetic; median body mass index 25 kg/m2), median concentrations of leptin and adiponectin were 3.04 ng/L [interquartile range (IQR) 1.77–5.43 ng/L] and 8005 μg/mL(IQR4950–11 935 μg/mL), respectively. The prevalence of lipodystrophy was 14%. Lipodystrophy was significantly associated with increasing age [prevalence ratio (PR) 1.50; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–2.06, per 10 years], adiponectin < 8005 μg/mL(PR5.02; 95%CI2.53–9.95), ever stavudine use (PR2.26; 95%CI1.36–3.75),CD4 cell count > 500 cells/μL (PR2.59; 95%CI1.46–4.61), viral load < 400 copies/mL(PR3.98; 95%CI1.25–12.6), highly sensitive C‐reactive protein < 1.61 mg/L (PR1.91; 95%CI1.11–3.28) and smoking (PR0.42; 95%CI0.22–0.78).

Conclusions

Among men in thisHIV‐infected cohort, the prevalence of lipodystrophy was similar to previous estimates for persons living withHIV, and was associated with lower adiponectin levels, potentially indicating increased cardiovascular disease risk.
Hidradenitis suppurativa and metabolic syndrome – systematic review and adjusted meta‐analysis
Authors: Phan Kevin , Charlton Olivia , Smith Saxon D.
Published: May 2019

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating and distressing chronic systemic inflammatory skin disease. There have been several prior observational studies which reported a possibility link between HS and metabolic syndrome, however the current evidence is not definitive. It is unclear in HS whether this possible relationship is independent or driven by underlying risk factors and comorbidities.

Objective

To determine whether HS is independently associated with metabolic syndrome via adjusted meta‐analysis of case‐control studies.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches were performed using six electronic databases (Ovid Medline, PubMed, CCTR, CDSR, ACP Journal Club, and DARE) from their inception until September 2018. Data were extracted and analyzed according to predefined clinical endpoints.

Results

We identified six case‐control studies included for meta‐analysis. Based on unadjusted analysis, we found a significant association between adult cases of HS and metabolic syndrome (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.31–2.89, P = 0.001). Adjusted meta‐analysis, after adjustment for age, sex, other cardiovascular risk factors, and comorbidities, found a significant association (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.70–2.81, I2 = 32%, P < 0.00001).

Limitations

Studies reviewed were observational by design which are susceptible to bias, and there was lack of randomization. The quality of the current systematic review is also limited by the quality of available evidence which was predominantly observational in nature.

Conclusions

This pooled analysis of existing case‐control studies supports an association between HS and metabolic syndrome. Clinicians treating patients with HS should be aware of this potential association.
Economic Migration and Communal Violence in Pakistan
Authors: Kuo Raymond
Published: May 2019

Overseas employment provides multiple socioeconomic benefits for families and communities in sending countries. But communal violence can potentially disrupt these flows, causing lasting damage to local and national economic development.Under what conditions does political violence – and particularly low‐intensity sectarian conflict – increase or decrease economic migration?This article argues that the level of militant control over local political and social institutions conditions whether individuals emigrate for work. Using statistical analysis of Pakistani data on overseas employment and political violence, it finds that attacks by transnational/Islamist militants on local political institutions substantially reduce economic migration. Attacks against non‐political targets have no significant effect, further emphasizing the importance of these bodies.
Gold and inflation: Expected inflation effect or carrying cost effect?
Authors: Xu Yingying , Liu Zhi‐Xin , Su Chi‐Wei , Ortiz Jaime
Published: May 2019

This study examines whether the expected inflation effect hypothesis adequately explains the causal relationship between inflation expectations and gold returns. A bootstrap full‐sample Granger causality test shows that gold returns cause inflation expectations rather than the reverse. To account for possible structural changes, we apply bootstrap subsample Granger causality tests with 60‐month windows. The results suggest that both professional forecasters' and consumers' inflation expectations have negative effects on gold returns in some but not all sample periods, contradicting the expected inflation effect hypothesis. No causality is found in other periods, consistent with the carrying cost hypothesis that the expected gain from gold due to higher inflation is offset by its carrying cost. Holding gold will not necessarily hedge against inflation because gold returns do not necessarily correlate with inflation expectation. Therefore, the carrying cost hypothesis more accurately explains the relationship between gold returns and inflation expectation than the expected inflation effect hypothesis does.
Collagenase‐assisted wound bed preparation: An in vitro comparison betweenVibrio alginolyticusandClostridium histolyticumcollagenases on substrate specificity
Authors: Di Pasquale Roberta , Vaccaro Susanna , Caputo Michele , Cuppari Christian , Caruso Salvatore , Catania Angela , Messina Luciano
Published: May 2019

Bacterial collagenase from the aerobic non‐pathogenicVibrio alginolyticuschemovariophagusis an extracellular metalloproteinase. This collagenase preparation is obtained through a fermentation process and is purified chromatographically, resulting in a highly purified 82‐kDa single‐band protein that does not contain non‐specific proteases or other microbial impurities.V. alginolyticuscollagenase was added to a hyaluronan (HA)‐based device to develop a novel debriding agent to improve the treatment of ulcers, necrotic burns, and decubitus in the initial phase of wound bed preparation. In this study, an in vitro biochemical characterisation ofV. alginolyticuscollagenase versus a commercial preparation from aClostridium histolyticumstrain on various dermal extracellular matrix (ECM) substrates was performed.V. alginolyticuscollagenase demonstrated its ability to carry out the enzymatic cleavage of the substrate, allowing a selective removal of necrotic tissues while sparing healthy tissue, as reported in clinical studies and through routine clinical experience. in vitro tests under physiological conditions (pH, presence of Ca++, etc.) have demonstrated thatV. alginolyticuscollagenase exhibits very poor/limited non‐specific proteolytic activity, whereas the collagenase preparation fromC. histolyticumis highly active both on collagen and on non‐collagenic substrates. This finding implies that while theV. alginolyticusenzyme is fully active on the collagen filaments that anchor the necrotic tissue to the wound bed, it does not degrade other minor, but structurally important, components of the dermal ECM. This feature could explain why collagenase preparation fromV. alginolyticushas been reported to be much gentler on perilesional, healthy skin.
A common variant of RIP3 promoter region is associated with poor prognosis in heart failure patients by influencing SOX17 binding
Authors: Hu Dong , Huang Jin , Hu Senlin , Zhang Ying , Li Shiyang , Sun Yang , Li Chenze , Cui Guanglin , Wang Dao Wen
Published: May 2019

Receptor‐interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) is a key determinant of necroptosis and participates in ischaemia—and oxidative stress‐induced necroptosis, myocardial remodelling and heart failure (HF). In this study, we tested the hypothesis that common variants in RIP3 gene were associated with the risk and prognosis of HF in the Chinese Han population. By re‐sequencing and luciferase assays, we identified a common functional variant in the RIP3 promoter region. The rs3212247‐T allele suppressed RIP3 promoter activity by facilitating transcription factor SOX17 binding, but not the C allele. We further recruited 2961 control participants and 3194 HF patients who underwent a mean follow‐up of 19 months (6‐31 months) for this study. Rs3212247 and another missense variant rs3212254 were genotyped. Although rs3212247 did not significantly associate with increased risk of HF (odds ratio = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.92‐1.08, P = 0.91), it raised the risk for cardiovascular death and cardiac transplantation (hazard ratio = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.13‐1.91, P = 0.004). Moreover, participants carrying the rs3212247 CC genotype had higher plasma levels of RIP3 than those carrying the TT or TC genotype (p for trend = 0.02) in New York Heart Association class III HF group. No association was found between the RIP3 missense variant rs3212254 and risk or prognosis of HF after adjustment for traditional risk factors. In conclusion, genetic variant in RIP3 promoter region is associated with increased RIP3 transcription, thus contributed to the poor prognosis of HF patients. Clinical Trial Registration: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03461107?term=03461107&cond=Heart+Failure&cntry=CN&rank=1. Unique identifier: NCT03461107.
Gutting the brain of inflammation: A key role of gut microbiome in human umbilical cord blood plasma therapy in Parkinson's disease model
Authors: Lee Jea‐Young , Tuazon Julian P. , Ehrhart Jared , Sanberg Paul R. , Borlongan Cesario V.
Published: May 2019

Current therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD), including L‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA), and clinical trials investigating dopaminergic cell transplants, have generated mixed results with the eventual induction of dyskinetic side effects. Although human umbilical cord blood (hUCB) stem/progenitor cells present with no or minimal capacity of differentiation into mature dopaminergic neurons, their transplantation significantly attenuates parkinsonian symptoms likely via bystander effects, specifically stem cell graft‐mediated secretion of growth factors, anti‐inflammatory cytokines, or synaptic function altogether promoting brain repair. Recognizing this non‐cell replacement mechanism, we examined here the effects of intravenously transplanted combination of hUCB‐derived plasma into the 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced rat model of PD. Animals received repeated dosing of either hUCB‐derived plasma or vehicle at 3, 5 and 10 days after induction into MPTP lesion, then behaviourally and immunohistochemically evaluated over 56 days post‐lesion. Compared to vehicle treatment, transplantation with hUCB‐derived plasma significantly improved motor function, gut motility and dopaminergic neuronal survival in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), which coincided with reduced pro‐inflammatory cytokines in both the SNpc and the intestinal mucosa and dampened inflammation‐associated gut microbiota. These novel data directly implicate a key pathological crosstalk between gut and brain ushering a new avenue of therapeutically targeting the gut microbiome with hUCB‐derived stem cells and plasma for PD.
What is the best biological parameter to predict erectile dysfunction in men aged >55 years with type 2 diabetes?
Authors: Raharinavalona Sitraka A , Chevalier Nicolas , Gruel Claude , N'toutoum André‐Christian , Vélayoudom Céphise Fritz‐Line
Published: May 2019

To date, there is no evidence regarding the best biological marker to predict erectile dysfunction (ED) in men aged >55 years with type 2 diabetes. This prospective study included data from men aged >55 years with type 2 diabetes. ED was assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function 15‐item survey. Total testosterone (TT) levels and bioavailable testosterone were measured; the free testosterone index was calculated. Data from 155 men (aged 64 ± 7 years) were explored. The prevalence of ED and testosterone deficiency was 78.7% and 34.8%, respectively. After univariate analysis, TT and bioavailable testosterone were associated with ED (P = 0.01). After multivariate analysis, and adjustment for age, body mass index, tobacco, alcohol, duration of diabetes, TT, bioavailable testosterone, vitamin D and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, we found that only high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein was significantly predictive of ED. TT could predict ED, but it lacks specificity. We found a potential role of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein as a predictive marker of ED in this targeted population.
Effectiveness and safety of selenium supplementation for type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Stróżyk A. , Osica Z. , Przybylak J. D. , Kołodziej M. , Zalewski B. M. , Mrozikiewicz‐Rakowska B. , Szajewska H.
Published: May 2019

Background

The role of selenium (Se) in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. We systematically assessed the effectiveness and safety of Se supplementation in adults with T2DM.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were searched up to April 2018 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness of Se against a comparator on DM‐related outcomes.

Results

Four RCTs (241 participants) were included. In individual RCTs, Se supplementation significantly reduced fasting insulin levels [mean difference (MD) = −3.6 μIU mL−1; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −6.36 to −0.84; MD = −5.8 μIU mL−1; 95% CI = −9.23 to −2.37], homeostasis model of assessment‐estimated insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) (MD = −1; 95% CI = −1.79 to −0.21; MD = −1.6; 95% CI, −2.58 to −0.62) and homeostasis model of assessment‐estimated B cell function (HOMA‐B) (MD = −13.6; 95% CI = −23.4 to −3.8; MD = −22.6; 95% CI = −36.39 to −8.81). No effects of Se were noted on most of the other outcomes of interest. None of the RCTs assessed the mortality, diabetes‐related complications, non‐high‐density lipoprotein (non‐HDL), blood pressure and health‐related quality of life. The impact on HDL and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was ambiguous. Only one adverse event (nausea) was reported as a reason for discontinuing the intervention; however, among the studies, the reporting was not accurate. Furthermore, only one RCT reported increase in FPG level in the Se group (MD = 36.38 mg dL−1; 95% CI = 15.39–57.37).

Conclusions

Currently, there is no evidence to support the effectiveness of Se supplementation in the T2DM population.
Rutile inclusions in garnet from a dissolution‐reprecipitation mechanism
Authors: Hwang Shyh‐Lung , Shen Pouyan , Chu Hao‐Tsu , Yui Tzen‐Fu , Iizuka Yoshiyuki , Schertl Hans‐Peter
Published: May 2019

Metamorphic garnet commonly contains needle‐like rutile inclusions as well as equant rutile inclusions that surround quartz inclusions and range in size from submicrometer to nanometer. Although the origin of these equant rutile inclusions, that is, exsolution or non‐exsolution, has important implications for petrological and tectonic processes, the crystallographic characteristics of these inclusions have rarely been studied because of the small sizes and analytical difficulties involved. Here, we report the crystallographic characteristics pertinent to the genetic origin of minute equant rutile inclusions in cloudy, nearly spherically shaped garnet domains with Ti‐depleted compositions surrounding quartz inclusions in ultrahigh‐pressure garnet from several diamondiferous Erzgebirge quartzofeldspathic gneissic rock samples. TEM analyses show that the equant rutile crystals in cloudy garnet domains are partially bounded by the low‐energy {100}rt ± {110}rt ± {101}rt facets and have rather random crystallographic orientation relationships (CORs) with the garnet host, with preferential alignment of low‐energy lattice planes, for example, {100}rt//{112}grt, for some rutile crystals. Although the rather random CORs are unlikely to be attributed to solid‐state exsolution subjected to the stringent topotactic garnet lattice constraints, the characteristic subhedral {100}rt ± {110}rt ± {101}rt crystal forms of rutile can be rationalized by a metasomatic dissolution‐reprecipitation mechanism via a fluid phase. In this scenario, the quartz+fluid inclusions in garnet were first subjected to decompression microcracking during rock exhumation, followed by dissolution of Ti‐bearing garnet matrix at the crack tips or along the crack surfaces and subsequent reprecipitation of rutile, apatite, gahnite, akdalaite, and Ti‐depleted garnet. The rapid coalescence between rutile and garnet crystals in fluid or direct attachment of rutile crystals onto the dissolving crack surfaces would then yield the rather random CORs as reported here. These results, along with previous work on rutile needles, indicate rather diverse genesis of rutile inclusions in various crystal forms, thus shedding light on the controversial exsolution origin for other inclusion suite/microstructure in minerals.
Three‐dimensional structure of efferent and epididymal ducts in mice
Authors: Nakata Hiroki , Iseki Shoichi
Published: May 2019

The aim of the present study was to clarify the detailed morphology of efferent and epididymal ducts in adult mice using three‐dimensional (3D) analysis. We reconstructed efferent and epididymal ducts in three adult mice using serial paraffin sections and high‐performance 3D reconstruction software to draw the core lines of all ducts. By comparing the 3D core lines with the histological features in serial sections, we obtained detailed information on the gross characteristics of the ducts and identified the duct divisions accurately. The intra‐testicular rete testis penetrated the tunica albuginea at one place and turned into the extra‐testicular rete testis, which branched once or twice to give rise to four efferent ducts within 0.5 mm from the tunica albuginea. As these ducts approached the epididymis, they converged into one again and changed abruptly into the initial segment (IS) of the epididymis. The average length from the tunica albuginea to the IS was 19.7 ± 3.1 mm. In one mouse, we found four additional efferent ducts diverging from the common region with blind ends. The epididymal duct was a single highly convoluted duct with no branch and an average length of 767 ± 26 mm. By dividing the epididymal duct into five regions based on its cytological features and periodic acid‐Schiff stainability, we calculated the length and diameter of individual regions accurately. Furthermore, we clearly showed locations of the connective tissue septa that divide the head epididymis into several segments. The epididymal duct followed a complicated, winding path within each segment while drawing a large spiral overall along the circumference of the epididymis. Sometimes the direction of this spiral reversed between adjacent segments. The present study revealed the detailed 3D structures of efferent and epididymal ducts in adult mice.
Effect of Ferrule Location with Varying Heights on Fracture Resistance and Failure Mode of Restored Endodontically Treated Maxillary Incisors
Authors: Santos Pantaleón Domingo , Valenzuela Fabio M. , Morrow Brian R. , Pameijer Cornelis H. , García‐Godoy Franklin
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To investigate the effect of the location of a partial ferrule on 2 walls and the influence of ferrule height variations on remaining walls, fracture resistance, and failure mode of maxillary incisors endodontically treated and restored with fiber posts.

Materials and Methods

Sixty intact human maxillary central incisors were divided into 6 groups (n = 10): no ferrule (NF), 2‐mm ferrule (CF2), absence of lingual wall and 1 proximal wall with remaining walls’ height, 1 mm (IF1), 2 mm (IF2), 3 mm (IF3), and 4 mm (IF4). They were restored with a fiberglass post and composite resin core. Complete metal crowns were then cemented on all specimens. Completed specimens were subjected to thermal cycling (6000 cycles, 5°C/55°C) followed by the immediate testing of fracture resistance. After failure, the specimens were sectioned buccolingually and evaluated to identify the mode of failure. The data were analyzed with an ANOVA and the Student‐Newman‐Keuls multiple comparison tests (α = 0.05).

Results

An incomplete ferrule (IF2) with the lingual wall missing and 1 proximal wall had a fracture resistance of 494 ± 137 N, which was significantly less that of a complete ferrule (CF2) (707 ± 162 N, p = 0.002). An increase of 3 to 4 mm in height of the remaining walls had negligible influence on the fracture resistance: 514 ± 117 N (IF3), 557 ± 177 N (IF4). Partial decementation was observed in all specimens of IF3 and IF4, in 9 of IF1 and IF2, in 6 in NF, and in 3 in CF2. Root fractures occurred in 7 specimens, 4 in CF2, 1 in IF1, 1 in IF2, and 1 in IF4. Cracks under the cemento‐enamel junction occurred in 4 specimens (NF and IF1), in 5 (IF2 and IF3), and in 6 (CF2 and IF4) and were considered catastrophic failures.

Conclusions

Specimens with a complete ferrule of 2 mm height were more resistant to fracture than specimens with 2 mm height and absence of the lingual wall and 1 proximal wall. A 3 or 4 mm wall height increase was associated with an insignificant increase in fracture resistance and cannot compensate for the absence of the lingual wall and 1 proximal wall.
Ethical Resonance
Authors: Prasad Leela
Published: May 2019

This essay defines ethical resonance through an ethnographic interlude that paves the way for a broader theorization of the concept. It begins by contextually recounting the story of an individual who had stayed at Sevagram, Mahatma Gandhi’s last ashram in 1944, shadowing Gandhi for some 20 days. The young man’s brief meeting with Gandhi in which Gandhi uttered only one sentence transformed him for his lifetime. I reflect on the experience and its narrative qualities to explore the broader question of why one is moved, and moved enough to be altered. I propose that the theorization of resonance in modern physics, in phenomenology, and in 11th‐century Sanskrit poetics is productive for understanding the subjective and the trans‐subjective elements that underlie ethical persuasion. I argue that the idea of resonance helps bridge the affective and the aesthetic in moral self‐formation that occurs in everyday life.