bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer RNA Genes Affect Chromosome Structure and Function via Local Effects
Authors: Hamdani Omar , Dhillon Namrita , Hsieh Tsung-Han S. , Fujita Takahiro , Ocampo Josefina , Kirkland Jacob G. , Lawrimore Josh , Kobayashi Tetsuya J. , Friedman Brandon , Fulton Derek , Wu Kenneth Y. , Chereji Răzvan V. , Oki Masaya , Bloom Kerry , Clark David J , Rando Oliver J. , Kamakaka Rohinton T.
Published: May 2019

The genome is packaged and organized in an ordered, non-random manner and specific chromatin segments contact nuclear substructures to mediate this organization. While transfer RNA genes (tDNAs) are essential for the generation of tRNAs, these loci are also binding sites for transcription factors and architectural proteins and are thought to play an important role in the organization of the genome. In this study, we investigate the role of tDNAs in genomic organization and chromosome function by editing a chromosome so that it lacks any tDNAs. Surprisingly our analyses of this tDNA-less chromosome show that loss of tDNAs does not grossly affect chromosome folding or chromosome tethering. However, loss of tDNAs affects local nucleosome positioning and the binding of SMC proteins at these loci. The absence of tDNAs also leads to changes in centromere clustering and a reduction in the frequency of long rangeHML-HMRheterochromatin clustering. We propose that the tDNAs primarily affect local chromatin structure that result in effects on long-range chromosome architecture.
Into-India or out-of-India? Historical biogeography of freshwater gastropod genus Pila (Ampullariidae)
Authors: Sil Maitreya , Aravind N. A. , Karanth K. Praveen
Published: May 2019

The biota of the Indian subcontinent has assembled during various points of the history of its continental drift: some when it was still a part of Gondwanaland and subsequently dispersed ‘out-of-India’ and some dispersed ‘into-India’ after it collided with Asia. However, the relative contribution of these connection to the current biotic assembly of the subcontinent is still under-explored. We aimed to understand the relative importance of these various routes of biotic assembly in India through studying the historical biogeography of tropical Old World freshwater snail genus Pila. We reconstructed a near-complete phylogeny of Ampullariidae including all the described Pila species from India and published sequences of Ampullariids from all over the world from two mitochondrial and two nuclear markers. Thereafter molecular dating and ancestral area reconstruction analyses were carried out in order to ascertain the time frame and route of colonization of India. The results suggest that Pila dispersed into India as well as other parts of tropical Asia from Africa after both India and Africa collided with Eurasia. Furthermore, multiple dispersals have taken place between Southeast Asia and India. The findings consolidate the rapidly building evidence that much of the current assemblage of biota actually dispersed into-India after it collided with Asia.
Cell-free transcriptional regulation via nucleic-acid-based transcription factors
Authors: Chou Leo Y.T. , Shih William M.
Published: May 2019

Cells execute complex transcriptional programs by deploying distinct protein regulatory assemblies that interact with cis-regulatory elements throughout the genome. Using concepts from DNA nanotechnology, we synthetically recapitulated this feature in cell-free gene networks actuated by T7 RNA polymerase (RNAP). Our approach involves engineering nucleic-acid hybridization interactions between a T7 RNAP site-specifically functionalized with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), templates displaying cis-regulatory ssDNA domains, and auxiliary nucleic-acid assemblies acting as artificial transcription factors (TFs). By relying on nucleic-acid hybridization, de novo regulatory assemblies can be computationally designed to emulate features of protein-based TFs, such as cooperativity and combinatorial binding, while offering unique advantages such as programmability, chemical stability, and scalability. We illustrate the use of nucleic-acid TFs to implement transcriptional logic, cascading, feedback, and multiplexing. This framework will enable rapid prototyping of increasingly complex in vitro genetic devices for applications such as portable diagnostics, bio-analysis, and the design of adaptive materials.
Quantitative studies of an RNA duplex electrostatics by ion counting
Authors: Gebala Magdalena , Herschlag Daniel
Published: May 2019

Ribonucleic acids are one of the most charged polyelectrolytes in nature, and understanding of their electrostatics is fundamental to their structure and biological functions. An effective way to characterize the electrostatic field generated by nucleic acids is to quantify interactions between nucleic acids and ions that surround the molecules. These ions form a loosely associated cloud referred as an ion atmosphere. While theoretical and computational studies can describe the ion atmosphere around RNAs, benchmarks are needed to guide the development of these approaches and experiments to-date that read out RNA-ion interaction are limited. Here we present ion counting studies to quantify the number of ions surrounding well-defined model systems of 24-bp RNA and DNA duplexes. We observe that the RNA duplex attracts more cations and expels fewer anions compared to the DNA duplex and the RNA duplex interacts significantly more strongly with the divalent cation Mg2+. These experimental results strongly suggest that the RNA duplex generates a stronger electrostatic field than DNA, as is predicted based on the structural differences between their helices. Theoretical calculations using non-linear Poisson-Boltzmann equation give excellent agreement with experiment for monovalent ions but underestimate Mg2+-DNA and Mg2+-RNA interactions by 20%. These studies provide needed stringent benchmarks to use against other all-atom theoretical models of RNA-ion interactions, interactions that likely must be well accounted for structurally, dynamically, and energetically to confidently model RNA structure, interactions, and function.
Investigating the backstage of audit engagements: the paradox of team diversity
Authors: Amyar Firdaus , Hidayah Nunung Nurul , Lowe Alan , Woods Margaret
Published: May 2019

Purpose

There has been very little qualitative “fieldwork” of audit practice. This is especially the case in relation to investigations into how audit engagements proceed. The purpose of this paper is to engage with audit practice in order to explore and explain the internal dynamics and paradoxical conditions within audit engagement teams.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a qualitative methodology, framed around an intensive case study that involves several methods of data collection and analysis including interviews, observation and document analysis. The authors observe audit team practices, work programmes and organisation including observations of individual and teams involved in audit engagements.

Findings

Using the lens of paradox theory, the authors explore the backstage of audit work, where audit teams are challenged with recurring contradictory requirements and opposing demands. The authors provide insight on the complexity associated with inadequate resourcing and planning that tend to stimulate the emergence of paradoxes in audit engagement work in a government audit context. As a result, the authors identify the occurrence of cascading reduced audit quality practices (RAQP) as the teams respond to the paradoxes they face.

Originality/value

The authors reveal the interlinked and cumulative coping strategies, namely, downplaying responsibility and downscaling audit processes. These strategies are performed concurrently by team leaders and audit members to manage paradoxical tensions. The authors also identified superficial audit supervision as another type of RAQP performed by team leaders.
Changes in corporate governance in Kazakhstan and its impact on financial market growth: an empirical analysis (1991-2017)
Authors: Temirbayev Abzal , Abakanov Alikhan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Since its independence, Kazakhstan has been improving its corporate governance system according to recommendations of international organizations. It was promised that the adoption of shareholder primacy approach would have a positive impact on its financial market growth. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to quantitatively analyse whether Kazakhstani corporate governance is moving towards a shareholder primacy corporate governance approach and its impact on financial market growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper will conduct a quantitative analysis. Firstly, the changes in corporate governance that occurred between 1991 and 2017 will be analysed using 52 corporate governance variables. Thus, a questionnaire will be used to collect data. When the questionnaire is completed, all data will be converted into numbers. Then, multiple liner regression will be used to estimate the impact of change in corporate governance.

Findings

The paper finds that Kazakhstan is successfully adopting shareholder-friendly corporate governance standards and so-called convergence has also occurred. Moreover, it is suggested that reforms in Kazakhstani corporate governance system have not yet brought the desired result of prosperous financial market and high flows of foreign investments.

Originality/value

Analysis specifically considers the changes in Kazakhstani corporate governance system and uses quantitative methods, whereas there is a lack (if not complete absence) of quantitative studies regarding Kazakhstani corporate governance.
A multi-site survey of forensic nursing assessment
Authors: Walker Helen , Tulloch Lindsay , Boa Karen , Ritchie Gordon , Thompson John
Published: May 2019

Purpose

A major difficulty identified many years ago in psychiatric care is the shortage of appropriate instruments with which to carry out valid and reliable therapeutic assessments which are behaviourally based and therefore appropriate for use in a variety of contexts. The aim of this project was to ascertain the utility of a forensic nursing risk assessment tool - Behavioural Status Index (BEST-Index). The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-site cross-sectional survey was undertaken using mixed method design. Quantitative data was generated using BEST-Index to allow comparisons across three different levels of security (high, medium and low) in Scotland and Ireland. Qualitative data were gathered from patients and multi-disciplinary team (MDT) members using semi-structured interviews and questionnaire.

Findings

Measured over an 18-month period, there was a statistically significant improvement in behaviour, when comparing patients in high and medium secure hospitals. Two key themes emerged from patient and staff perspectives: “acceptance of the process” and “production and delivery of information”, respectively. The wider MDT acknowledge the value of nursing risk assessment, but require adequate information to enable them to interpret findings. Collaborating with patients to undertake risk assessments can enhance future care planning.

Research limitations/implications

Studies using cross-section can only provide information at fixed points in time.

Practical implications

The BEST-Index assessment tool is well established in clinical practice and has demonstrated good utility.

Originality/value

This project has served to highlight the unique contribution of BEST-Index to both staff and patients alike and confirm its robustness and versatility across differing levels of security in Scottish and Irish forensic mental health services.
Development and validation of the Work Environment Complexity Scale for leaders
Authors: Bezler Teresa , Moneta Giovanni B. , Pheiffer Gary
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and validate a Work Environment Complexity (WEC) Scale for leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses both cross-sectional and longitudinal data, gathered in the course of major organisational restructuring, using samples from employees (n=305) and leaders (n=120) in two health care organisations.

Findings

The research developed and validated a scale of WEC for leaders with two factors: frequent change and events, and uncertain work demands. Comparisons between samples suggest diverging employee and leadership representations of WEC.

Practical implications

Being the first scale to measure the comprehensive construct of WEC, a foundation is laid to measure the amount of complexity in a leader’s work and the functioning of leaders with regards to WEC.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to leadership research and practice by clarifying the construct of WEC for leaders empirically and validating a bidimensional scale of WEC.
Bamboo Leaf Flavonoids Extracts Alleviate Oxidative Stress in HepG2 Cells via Naturally Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Nrf2‐Mediated Antioxidant Defense Responses
Authors: Yu Yue , Li Zhanming , Cao Guangtian , Huang Shudan , Yang Hongshun
Published: May 2019

In this study, bamboo leaf flavonoids extracts (BFE) were employed to alleviate oxidative stress induced by oleic acid in HepG2 cells. Biochemical indexes, intracellular reactive oxygen species production, lipid droplets accumulation, antioxidant enzymes production, and mitochondrial membrane potential were determined to show the alleviation performance of BFE intervention (P < 0.05). Importantly, the results of qRT‐PCR and western blot determination indicated that BFE intervention upregulated the expression of Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 to initiate the antioxidant defense response for counteracting oxidative stress (P < 0.05). Moreover, mitochondrial membrane potential–mediated apoptosis and FOXO signaling pathway initiation caused by BFE intervention may together contribute to oxidative stress alleviation in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, these findings suggested that BFE intervention upregulated related antioxidant defense responses for preventing cells from oxidative damage.

Practical Application

In this study, bamboo leaf flavonoids extracts intervention upregulated related antioxidant defense responses for preventing cells from oxidative damage. These findings in bamboo leaf extracts antioxidants are a promising and innovative subject with practical applications to enhance the development of bamboo leaf extracts functional products in the food industry.
Solanum muricatum Ameliorates the Symptoms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta In Vivo
Authors: Wang Nan , Wang Luyao , Wang Zhihong , Cheng Liangxing , Wang Jiaxiang
Published: May 2019

Pepino (Solanum muricatum), which is an evergreen plant native to South America, is well‐known for its effects in antioxidation, antidiabetic activity, anti‐inflammation, and antitumor activity. A previous study in our lab indicated that Solanum muricatum (SM) extract promoted osteogenic differentiation by upregulating Wnt and BMP signaling pathway in rat bone marrow stromal cells. The osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) mouse model was used in order to further discover the osteogenic properties of SM extract in the present research. We utilized microCT analysis to collect bone mass and microarchitectural parameters at vertebrae and at femur metaphysis in OI mice. Raman spectrometry was applied to identify change of bone mineral and matrix composition during SM treatment. Finally, collagen synthesis marker PINP and collagen degradation marker CTX were detected using enzyme immunoassay. SM extract could improve the bone mass and microarchitectural parameters both at vertebrae and at femur metaphysis. It also significantly increased the collagen content by promoting its biosynthesis and inhibiting its degradation. By using heterozygous Col1a1Jrt/+ mice as a model of OI, 6 weeks treatment of SM extract could significantly ameliorate the symptoms in OI mice. Thus, SM holds potential for developing new drugs of bone formation and bone remodeling.
Brief Report: Sex Differences in Substance Use, Mental Health, and Impaired Driving Among Rural DUI Offenders
Authors: Webster J. Matthew , Staton Michele , Dickson Megan F.
Published: May 2019

Background and Objectives

Studies have documented sex differences among driving under the influence (DUI) offenders, but none have examined rural DUI offenders.

Methods

Rural DUI offenders (83 males and 34 females) self‐reported past year and lifetime substance use, mental health problems, and impaired driving history.

Results

Substance use and impaired driving histories were similar, but significant disparities in mental health problems for female DUI offenders were found.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

This initial examination of sex differences among rural DUI offenders suggests additional research is needed to better understand their substance use and mental health problems and whether different treatment approaches are needed. (Am J Addict 2019;28:405–408)
Time is of the essence: evaluation of emergency department triage and time performance in the preoperative management of acute abdomen
Authors: Teo Adrian , Wang Cindy , Wilson Robert B.
Published: May 2019

Background

Acute abdomen is a time‐critical condition, which requires prompt diagnosis, initiation of first‐line preoperative therapy and expedient surgical intervention. The earliest opportunity to intervene occurs at presentation to the emergency department triage. The aim of this audit was to evaluate the relationship between emergency triage and time performance measures in the preoperative management of abdominal emergencies.

Methods

Retrospective audit of time performance measures of key clinical events from emergency triage. Patient characteristics, elapsed time from triage to commencement of fluid resuscitation, intravenous antibiotics and emergency surgery and post‐operative outcomes were obtained from review of operative medical records data over a 1‐year duration.

Results

There was variability in triage allocation of patients with acute abdomen requiring urgent surgery. Category 3 was the most commonly assigned triage category (65.6%). The majority of patients (94.8%) had initial clinical assessment within the National Emergency Access Target ‘4‐hour’ rule, and 41.7% seen within 1‐h from triage. Despite this, in cases of intra‐abdominal sepsis, there was nearly a fourfold elapsed time for first dose intravenous antibiotics, beyond the 1‐h recommendation in the Sepsis Kills pathway. There was non‐significant trend in faster overall time performances with successive higher triage category allocation.

Conclusion

This study highlights an opportunity to consider alternative triage methods or fast‐track of patients with acute abdomen to promote early surgical assessment, resuscitation, antibiotic therapy and definitive intervention.
A novel sympathetic neuronal GABAergic signalling system regulates NE release to prevent ventricular arrhythmias after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Shi Yugen , Li Yan , Yin Jie , Hu Hesheng , Xue Mei , Li Xiaolu , Cheng Wenjuan , Wang Ye , Li Xinran , Wang Yu , Tan Jiayu , Yan Suhua
Published: May 2019

Aim

Overactivation of the sympathetic nerve may lead to severe ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) after myocardial infarction (MI). Thus, targeting sympathetic nerve activity is an effective strategy to prevent VAs clinically. The superior cervical ganglion (SCG), the extracardiac sympathetic ganglion innervating cardiac muscles, has been found to have a GABAergic signalling system, the physiological significance of which is obscure. We aimed to explore the functional significance of SCG post MI and whether the GABAergic signal system is involved in the process.

Methods

Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into seven different groups. Rats in the MI groups underwent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. All animals were used for electrophysiological testing, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) testing, and ELISA. Primary SCG sympathetic neurons were used for the in vitro study.

Results

The GABAA receptor agonist muscimol significantly decreased the ATP‐induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ (P < 0.05). GABA treatment in MI rats significantly attenuated the level of serum and cardiac norepinephrine (NE; P < 0.05). Sympathetic activity and inducible VAs were also lower in MI + GABA rats than in MI rats (P < 0.05). Knockdown of the GABAARs β2 subunit (GABAARβ2) in the SCG of MI rats increased the NE levels in serum and cardiac tissue, RSNA and inducible VAs compared with vehicle shRNA (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The GABAergic signalling system is functionally expressed in SCG sympathetic neurons, and activation of this system suppresses sympathetic activity, thereby facilitating cardiac protection and making it a potential target to alleviate VAs.
Pharmacokinetics and safety of tobramycin nebulization with the I‐neb and PARI‐LC Plus in children with cystic fibrosis: A randomized, crossover study
Authors: van Velzen Annelies J. , Uges Joris W.F. , Heijerman Harry G.M. , Arets Bert G.M. , Nuijsink Marianne , van der Wiel‐Kooij Els C. , van Maarseveen Erik M. , van Zanten Gijsbert A. , Pullens Bas , Touw Daan J. , Janssens Hettie M.
Published: May 2019

Aims

We aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety profile of tobramycin inhalation solution (TIS) using the I‐neb device to the standard PARI‐LC Plus nebulizer in children with cystic fibrosis.

Methods

A randomized, open‐label, crossover study was performed. In 2 separate study visits, blood samples from 22 children were collected following TIS nebulization with I‐neb (75 mg) and PARI‐LC Plus (300 mg). Study visits were separated by 1 month, in which 1 of the study nebulizers was used twice daily. Tobramycin PK for both nebulizers was established using measured tobramycin concentrations and Bayesian PK modelling software. Hearing and renal function tests were performed to test for aminoglycoside associated toxicity. In addition to standard estimated glomerular filtration rate values, biomarkers for tubular injury (KIM‐1 and NAG) were measured. Patient and nebulizer satisfaction were assessed.

Results

Inhalations were well tolerated and serum trough concentrations below the predefined toxic limit were reached with no significant differences in PK parameters between nebulizers. Results of audiometry and estimated glomerular filtration rate revealed no abnormalities. However, increased urinary NAG/creatinine ratios at visit 2 for both nebulizers suggest TIS‐induced subclinical tubular kidney injury. Nebulization time was 50% shorter and patient satisfaction was significantly higher with the I‐neb.

Conclusions

Nebulization of 75 mg TIS with the I‐neb in children with cystic fibrosis resulted in comparable systemic exposure to 300 mg TIS with the PARI‐LC Plus and was well tolerated and preferred over the PARI‐LC Plus. Long‐term safety of TIS nebulization should be monitored clinically, especially regarding the effects on tubular kidney injury.
Optimizing the dose in patients treated with imatinib as first line treatment for gastrointestinal stromal tumours: A cost‐effectiveness study
Authors: Zuidema Sander , Desar Ingrid M.E. , van Erp Nielka P. , Kievit Wietske
Published: May 2019

Aims

Patients with metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) are treated in first line with the oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib, until progressive disease. With this fixed dosing regimen, only approximately 40% of patients reach adequate plasma levels within the therapeutic index. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is a solution to reach plasma levels within the therapeutic index. However, introducing TDM will also increase costs, due to prolonged imatinib use and laboratory costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of TDM in patients with metastatic/unresectable GIST treated with imatinib as a first line treatment, compared with fixed dosing.

Methods

A survival model was created to simulate progression, mortality and treatment costs over a 5‐year time horizon, comparing fixed dosing vs TDM‐guided dosing. The outcomes measured were treatments costs, life‐years and quality‐adjusted life‐years.

Results

Total costs over the 5‐year time horizon were estimated to be €106 994.85 and €150 477.08 for fixed dosing vs TDM‐guided dosing, respectively. A quality‐adjusted life year gain of 0.74 (95% confidence interval 0.66–0.90) was estimated with TDM‐guided dosing compared to fixed dosing. An average incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of €58 785.70 per quality‐adjusted life year gained was found, mainly caused by longer use and higher dosages of imatinib.

Conclusion

Based on the currently available data, this analysis suggests that TDM‐guided dosing may be a cost‐effective intervention for patients with metastatic/unresectable GIST treated with imatinib which will be improved when imatinib losses its patency.
Changes in body composition in male adolescents with childhood‐onset GH deficiency during transition
Authors: Binder Gerhard , Donner Julia , Becker Bettina , Bauer Jana Leonie , Schweizer Roland
Published: May 2019

Objective

Restarting rhGH in adolescents with childhood‐onset (CO‐) GHD is usually based on GH retest, IGF‐1, additional pituitary hormone deficiencies, pituitary morphology and history. Short‐term changes in body composition in adolescents with CO‐GHD when off rhGH may contribute to the identification of those in need of treatment continuation.

Design

This is a longitudinal single‐centre study.

Patients and measurements

The body composition of 90 male adolescents with low‐likelihood severe GHD of adolescence was measured by DXA at the time of rhGH discontinuation and 6 months thereafter. At diagnosis, mean age was 5.4 years, height was −2.68 SDS and stimulated GH peak was 5.1 ng/mL. RhGH treatment was stopped at 16.7 years at near‐final height of −0.44 SDS. The adolescents were re‐examined after 3 months off rhGH using both IGF‐1 and GHRH‐arginine tests. Severe GHD of adolescence was defined both by stimulated GH < 16 ng/mL and by IGF‐1 < −1.90 SDS.

Results

Males with severe GHD of adolescence (n = 8) gained more relative and absolute fat mass and lost significantly more relative lean body mass after 6 months off rhGH than healthy individuals (n = 82; P < 0.001). The sum of absolute fat mass gain and lean body mass loss (=body composition changes score; BCC score) correlated highly with the GH peak (R = 0.17; P < 0.001). A BCC score >7.0 kg was 88% sensitive and 94% specific for detecting severe GHD of adolescence (AUC = 0.975).

Conclusions

Short‐term body composition changes when off rhGH are good clinical markers of severe GHD in male adolescents. The novel BBC score is an aggregate of these changes.
The radiological evaluation of posterior superior alveolar artery topography by using computed tomography
Authors: Duruel Onurcem , Ataman‐Duruel Emel T. , Tözüm Melek D. , Karabulut Erdem , Tözüm Tolga F.
Published: May 2019

Background

Posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA) is the most important limiting anatomic structure while lateral approach sinus surgeries. PSAA should be taken into consideration to avoid bleeding during preparation of bony window.

Purpose

The aim of this article was to inform topography of PSAA and to evaluate measurements of this vital structure.

Materials and Methods

Three hundred and fifty‐four cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of PSAA from 177 patients were evaluated retrospectively. Localization of PSAA, diameter of PSAA, classification of PSAA diameter, distance between PSAA and crest, buccal bone thickness, palatal bone thickness, crest height, and crest width were recorded for each posterior tooth separately.

Results

The mean age of 177 patients was 54.05 ± 18.33 years. Although the most frequent localization of PSAA was intraosseous in premolar region, they were below Schneiderian membrane in molars. PSAA diameter was measured frequently less than 1 mm for all posterior teeth. Although palatal bone thickness was higher in premolar region than molars, no statistical relationship was found between tooth region and buccal bone thickness (P > 0.05). The width of residual ridge was measured both wider apically and posteriorly. Positive correlation was observed between buccal bone thickness and PSAA diameter in first molar and premolar regions (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Detailed evaluation of patients by CBCT provided us the opportunity to draw topography of PSAA and inform about overall measurements of PSAA in all posterior teeth region.
Youth weight status and family functioning in paediatric primary care
Authors: Pratt Keeley J. , Van Fossen Catherine A. , Berge Jerica M. , Murray Robert , Skelton Joseph A.
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine the associations between family functioning and youth overweight and obesity in a sample of primary care paediatric patients. Specially, we hypothesize that caregivers of youth with an overweight/obese weight status will report more impaired family functioning. A cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted with 329 caregivers of youth ages 2 to 18 seen in paediatric primary care. Caregivers completed the Family Assessment Device General Functioning Scale and clinical demographics, including parent‐reported youth height and weight to calculate body mass index (BMI). Family functioning was used as a continuous total variable, and as a dichotomous variable based on clinically impaired or healthy family functioning. Analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlations, and independent t tests. Caregivers who reported impaired family functioning based on the clinical cutoff score were more likely to report that their youth had a higher BMI and BMI z‐score. Caregivers with impaired family functioning and who identified as being in two‐parent families, with at least a Bachelor's degree, and a moderate to high family income were more likely to report their youth was a higher weight status. Further screening and assessment of family functioning in combination with youth weight status among a larger diverse sample of primary care paediatric patients over time will provide insight into what aspects of family functioning may contribute to maintaining a healthy lifestyle or adopting new health behaviours to prevent and/or treat obesity in youth.
Low‐fat and fat‐free spindle cell lipomas in the oral cavity: Immunohistochemical analysis and review of the literature
Authors: Rocha Audrey F. L. , Miotto Larissa N. , Ferrisse Túlio M. , Silveira Heitor A. , Almeida Luciana Y. , Bufalino Andreia , Navarro Cláudia M. , León Jorge E.
Published: May 2019

The low‐fat and fat‐free spindle cell lipomas (SCLs) are rare and often mistaken for other benign and malignant morphological mimics, because of the fact that the diagnosis relies on its non‐lipogenic component analysis. Here, we report the clinicopathological features of two oral SCLs (low‐fat and fat‐free variants). Both lesions presented clinically as an asymptomatic nodule, which initially yielded diagnostic difficulties on the morphological analysis alone. One case was diagnosed as low‐fat SCL on the lower lip in a 29‐year‐old man, and the other as fat‐free SCL on the buccal mucosa in a 46‐year‐old man. In both cases, immunohistochemistry showed strong positivity for CD34 and, remarkably, retinoblastoma (Rb) protein was deficient. Mast cell (MC) tryptase and toluidine blue stain highlighted numerous MCs distributed throughout all tumor stroma. Alpha‐SMA and desmin were negative. S100 evidenced scarce adipocytes only in the low‐fat SCL case. Conservative surgical treatment was performed and no recurrence was noticed in about 2‐year of follow‐up in both cases. Because of the potential pitfalls, careful morphological analysis of the tumor stroma in the low‐fat/fat‐free SCL diagnosis, supported by immunohistochemistry (especially CD34, Rb and MC tryptase), is strongly recommended. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first and second cases reported of fat‐free and low‐fat SCL in the oral cavity.
Management der Dupilumab‐assoziierten Konjunktivitis beim atopischen Ekzem
Authors: Aszodi Nora , Thurau Stephan , Seegräber Marlene , de Bruin‐Weller Marjolein , Wollenberg Andreas
Published: May 2019

Der monoklonale Antikörper Dupilumab (Dupixent®) ist seit September 2017 in der EU als neue systemische Therapie bei mittelschwerem bis schwerem atopischem Ekzem zugelassen. Eine Unterdrückung der IL‐4‐ und IL‐13‐Signalwege durch die Anwendung von Dupilumab führt zu einer Verbesserung objektiver und subjektiver Komponenten der Erkrankung. Die Blockade der IL‐4Rα‐Untereinheit führt zu einer Reduktion der Th2‐vermittelten Entzündung und zu einer Verbesserung der Hautbarriere. Die Nebenwirkungsrate unter Dupilumab ist gering. Allerdings entwickelten bis zu 28 % der Patienten unter Behandlung mit Dupilumab (gegenüber bis zu 11 % unter Placebo) eine bilaterale, milde bis moderate Konjunktivitis mit Rötung, Brennen und Fremdkörpergefühl der Augen. Mit topischen Steroiden und topischen Calcineurininhibitoren stehen verschiedene Therapieoptionen der Dupilumab‐assoziierten Konjunktivitis zur Verfügung. Dieser Artikel berichtet über die klinische Präsentation sowie die medikamentösen und nichtmedikamentösen Therapieoptionen der klinisch hochrelevanten Dupilumab‐assoziierten Konjunktivitis.
Drug Survival und Gründe für einen Therapieabbruch bei Pustulosis palmoplantaris: Eine retrospektive multizentrische Studie
Authors: Kromer Christian , Wilsmann‐Theis Dagmar , Gerdes Sascha , Philipp Sandra , Schaarschmidt Marthe‐Lisa , Schmieder Astrid , Dakna Mohammed , Arnold Tobias , Peitsch Wiebke Katharina , Mössner Rotraut
Published: May 2019

Hintergrund

Die Pustulosis palmoplantaris (PPP) ist eine chronisch‐entzündliche Hauterkrankung, die mit Psoriasis verwandt ist. Ihre Therapie ist eine Herausforderung und es ist wenig über die Nachhaltigkeit der verschiedenen, therapeutisch eingesetzten Arzneimittel bekannt. Ziel dieser Studie war es die Anwendungsdauer von Medikamenten (Überlebensrate, „Drug Survival“) sowie deren Absetzen bei der Behandlung der PPP in einem Real‐World Setting zu untersuchen.

Patienten und Methoden

In diese retrospektive Studie wurden Patienten mit PPP eingeschlossen, die zwischen 01/2005 und 08/2017 in den dermatologischen Abteilungen von fünf deutschen Universitätskliniken behandelt wurden. Das Drug Survival systemischer Therapien wurde mittels Kaplan‐Meier‐Analyse und multivariater Regression ermittelt.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden 347 Patienten mit 935 Behandlungen erfasst. Innerhalb der Gruppe nichtbiologischer systemischer Wirkstoffe zeigte Apremilast das beste mediane Drug Survival (15 Monate), gefolgt von Ciclosporin (12 Monate), der Kombination von Acitretin und topischer PUVA‐Behandlung (9 Monate), MTX (8 Monate), Acitretin‐Monotherapie (6 Monate), Alitretinoin (5 Monate) und Fumarsäureestern (3 Monate). Bei den Biologika hatte Certolizumab Pegol die höchste Erhaltungsrate (begrenzter Mittelwert 47,4 Monate), gefolgt von Infliximab (Median: 26 Monate), Golimumab (22 Monate), Ustekinumab (21 Monate), Adalimumab (18 Monate), Secukinumab (9 Monate) und Etanercept (8 Monate).

Schlussfolgerungen

Biologika und Apremilast sind mögliche Optionen für die Zweitlinientherapie der PPP und sollten weiter untersucht werden.
Comparison of prenatal ultrasound and postmortem findings in fetuses with common pulmonary vein atresia
Authors: Guo Yong , Gao Shuang , Kang Lei , Han Jiancheng , Zhang Ye , Weng Zongjie , Shang Jianfeng , Hao Xiaoyan , Zhao Ying , Ge Shuping , He Yihua
Published: May 2019

Background

The previous literature on common pulmonary vein atresia (CPVA) mainly consists of neonatal case reports. There is a lack of research on the prenatal diagnosis of CPVA.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of all fetuses with CPVA confirmed by autopsy between August 2010 and May 2018. Prenatal echocardiographic features, autopsy findings, and genetic test results were analyzed. We compared fetal CPVA with total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) and neonatal CPVA.

Results

During the study period, fetal echocardiography was performed on 31 617 fetuses. Six cases of CPVA were identified by autopsies, including 1 case performed with a cardiovascular cast. All 6 cases (100%) had asplenia syndrome (AS) and bilateral superior vena cava (BSVC). In 1 case (16.7%), the prenatal ultrasound results were in complete agreement with the postmortem findings. Four cases (66.7%) were misdiagnosed as TAPVR by prenatal echocardiography. For the remaining case (16.7%), no pulmonary venous anomalies were detected on prenatal echocardiography. No aneuploidy was identified in any of the cases. There were no statistically significant differences among the proportions of associated complex anomalies and AS between the fetal CPVA and TAPVR groups. The proportion of associated complex anomalies and AS in the fetal CPVA group was higher than that in the neonatal group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Prenatal diagnosis of fetal CPVA is difficult and challenging even for experts. Our study showed that fetal CPVA is often combined with AS, complex cardiac malformations, and BSVC. These findings may help in the diagnosis of fetal CPVA.
Seasonal and diurnal variation of downstream fish movement at four small‐scale hydropower plants
Authors: Knott Josef , Mueller Melanie , Pander Joachim , Geist Juergen
Published: May 2019

Hydropower structures hinder the movement and migration of fishes, impairing their life cycles. Additionally, downstream moving fish are often at risk of being injured during turbine passage. To improve hydropower production towards more fish‐friendly techniques and management, knowledge on timing and extent of natural patterns of fish downstream movement is necessary. So far, migration behaviour of long‐distance migrators such as eel or salmon has been well studied, but little is known about seasonal and diurnal movement patterns of nonmigratory species or medium‐distance migrators. In this study, movement patterns of 39 fish species captured by stownets while transiting hydropower facilities in four impounded rivers were assessed and compared with the fish community composition directly upstream of the hydropower plants assessed by electrofishing. Strong differences between the fish community composition inhabiting the upstream sides of the dams and the fish detected in downstream passage were evident. In each study river, the downstream moving fish community composition differed significantly between spring and autumn. On average, significantly more fish were caught during the night (2.9 fish/hr) than during the day (1.3 fish/hr). Topmouth gudgeon, European grayling and pike‐perch mostly moved downstream during the night, whereas roach, spirlin and bleak were the most frequent downstream moving fish during daytime. Downstream fish movement was positively related with turbidity, water temperature and discharge. The strong differences in seasonal and diurnal fish movement patterns suggest that fish damage can be strongly reduced by adaptive turbine and corridor management, for example by shutting down turbines at peak movements.
Hybrid job offer recommender system in a social network
Authors: Rivas Alberto , Chamoso Pablo , González‐Briones Alfonso , Casado‐Vara Roberto , Corchado Juan Manuel
Published: May 2019

Recommender systems (RSs) play a very important role in web navigation, ensuring that the users easily find the information they are looking for. Today's social networks contain a large amount of information and it is necessary that they employ a mechanism that will guide users to the information they are interested in. However, to be able to recommend content according to user preferences, it is necessary to analyse their profiles and determine their preferences. The present work proposes a job offer RS for a career‐oriented social network. The recommendation system is a hybrid, it consists of a case‐based reasoning (CBR) system and an argumentation framework, based on a multi‐agent system (MAS) architecture. The CBR system uses a series of metrics and similar cases to decide whether a job offer is likely to be recommended to a user. Besides, the argumentation framework extends the system with an argumentation CBR, through which old and similar cases can be obtained from the CBR system. Finally, a discussion process is established amongst the agents who debate using their experience from past cases to take a final decision.
Factor VIII prophylaxis effects outweigh other hemostasis contributors in predicting severe haemophilia A joint outcomes
Authors: Warren Beth Boulden , Jacobson Linda , Kempton Christine , Buchanan George R. , Recht Michael , Brown Deborah , Leissinger Cindy , Shapiro Amy D. , Abshire Thomas C. , Manco‐Johnson Marilyn J. ,   for the Joint Outcome Study Group Investigators
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The Joint Outcome Study (JOS) demonstrated that previously untreated children with severe haemophilia A treated with prophylactic factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate had superior joint outcomes at age 6 years compared to those children treated episodically for bleeding. However, variation in joint outcome within each treatment arm was not well explained.

Aim

In this study, we sought to better understand variation in joint outcomes at age 6 years in participants of the JOS.

Methods

We evaluated the influence of FVIII half‐life, treatment adherence, constitutional coagulant and anticoagulant proteins, and global assays on joint outcomes (number of joint bleeds, total number of bleeds, total MRI score and joint physical exam score). Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of variables with joint failure status on MRI, defined as presence of subchondral cyst, surface erosion or joint‐space narrowing. Each parameter was also correlated with each joint outcome using Spearman correlations.

Results

Prophylaxis treatment arm and FVIII trough were each found to reduce risk of joint failure on univariate logistic regression analysis. When controlling for treatment arm, FVIII trough was no longer significant, likely because of the high level of covariation between these variables. We found no consistent correlation between any laboratory assay performed and any joint outcome parameter measured.

Conclusion

In the JOS, the effect of prescribed prophylactic FVIII infusions on joint outcome overshadowed the contribution of treatment adherence, FVIII half‐life, global assays of coagulation and constitutional coagulation proteins. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00207597).
Discrepancy between volume and functional recovery in early phase liver regeneration following extended hepatectomy with extrahepatic bile duct resection
Authors: Maeda Takashi , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Ebata Tomoki , Igami Tsuyoshi , Mizuno Takashi , Yamaguchi Junpei , Onoe Shunsuke , Ando Masahiko , Nagino Masato
Published: May 2019

Aim

To elucidate the clinical factors having an impact on liver regeneration rate following preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) and subsequent extended hepatectomy. The correlation between liver volume and functional recovery after extended hepatectomy was also investigated.

Methods

Records of patients who underwent extended hepatectomy with extrahepatic bile duct resection following PVE for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma were reviewed retrospectively with attention to liver regeneration. All patients underwent computed tomography before PVE, after PVE (immediately before surgery), and on postoperative day (POD) 7. The kinetic growth rate (KGR) was calculated as the percent increase in liver volume relative to the future liver remnant volume per day after PVE (KGRPVE) and after POD 7 (KGRPOD7) using the computed tomography images before PVE, after PVE, and on POD 7.

Results

In the 289 study patients, the median of KGRPVE was 1.35%/day whereas that of KGRPOD7 was 5.56%/day. The extent of liver resection had the greatest impact on both KGRPVE and KGRPOD7 and the impacts of other factors were less. There was a significant negative correlation between KGRPVE and KGRPOD7 (P = 0.002). No correlations were observed between KGRPVE or KGRPOD7 and serum total bilirubin and prothrombin time – international normalized ratio on POD 7, nor in the incidence of liver failure after surgery.

Conclusions

Early phase liver regeneration after extended hepatectomy was largely influenced by the extent of liver resection and showed no correlation with the indices of liver failure. There was a discrepancy between volume and functional recovery in early phase liver regeneration.
To what extent can oil palm plantations in the Amazon support assemblages of Odonata larvae?
Authors: Mendes Thiago Pereira , Benone Naraiana Loureiro , Juen Leandro
Published: May 2019

The aims of the study were to identify differences in alpha and beta diversity of Odonata larvae of the suborders Zygoptera and Anisoptera found between continuous forest sites (forest) and oil palm sites with forested buffers (oil palm), and to evaluate the extent of turnover and nestedness of communities within each habitat type.

Twenty‐nine streams were sampled, 11 in forests and 18 in oil palm sites in the eastern Amazon. Alpha diversity of Zygoptera and Anisoptera was higher in streams at oil palm sites. Variation in species composition measured by beta diversity is primarily structured by turnover. Biotic heterogeneity of Zygoptera was higher in oil palm sites, while no difference was found in Anisoptera.

Forested streams had more wood in the streambed, whereas oil palm sites had finer sediment, higher non‐agricultural human impact, water temperature, and road proximity index. Anisoptera turnover was positively correlated with water temperature and amount of wood in the streambed; Zygoptera turnover was positively correlated with non‐agricultural human impact.

The patterns observed in Zygoptera can be attributed to the presence of forested buffers, which may have influenced the selection of foraging sites by adults and determined larval distribution.

We conclude that oil palm plantations can change the environmental structure of streams and influence genus richness and turnover in Amazon streams. These results might help explain changes caused by oil palm plantations on Anisoptera and Zygoptera assemblages.
Structures and pyroelectric properties for [111]‐oriented Mn‐doped rhombohedral 0.36PIN‐0.36PMN‐0.28PT crystal
Authors: Du Qiuxiang , Tang Yanxue , Huang Xiaoli , Wang Feifei , Zhao Xiangyong , Duan Zhihua , Zhuang Xusheng , Shi Wangzhou , Zhao Jing , Liu Fei , Luo Haosu
Published: May 2019

The crystal structures, pyroelectric properties, and thermal stability of [111]‐oriented 0.5 mol% Mn‐doped 0.36Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3‐0.36Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.28PbTiO3 (Mn‐0.36PIN‐0.36PMN‐0.28PT) ternary single crystal were investigated. The temperature dependence of the Raman spectra and dielectric properties revealed that the crystal exhibited a rhombohedral (R) structure at room temperature, and ferroelectric R → tetragonal (T) and ferroelectric T to paraelectric cubic (C) phase transitions at 130 and 175°C respectively. The single crystal had a high remnant polarization of Pr = 38 μC cm–2 and coercive field of EC = 12 kV cm–1 at room temperature and a frequency of f = 100 Hz. The values of Pr and EC decreased with increasing temperature, exhibiting anomalies near their phase‐transition temperatures, which coincided with changes in the Raman spectra and dielectric properties. Furthermore, at 25°C and f = 100 Hz, the single crystal had high pyroelectric coefficients of p = 8.7 × 10−4 C m−2 K−1, figures of merit for the current responsivity of Fi = 3.5 × 10−10 m V−1, the voltage responsivity of Fv = 0.08 m2 C−1, and the detectivity of Fd = 30.1 × 10−5 Pa−1/2. These values were weakly dependent on temperature below 120°C. In addition, the room‐temperature pyroelectric coefficients of the ternary single crystal maintain over 83% of the original value at thermal annealing temperatures below 120°C. These outstanding pyroelectric properties, together with high thermal stability, indicate that [111]‐oriented rhombohedral Mn‐0.36PIN‐0.36PMN‐0.28PT ternary single crystal is a new potential candidate for infrared detection applications.