bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Black Lives Matter Movement: A Call to Action for Couple and Family Therapists
Authors: Kelly Shalonda , Jérémie‐Brink Gihane , Chambers Anthony L. , Smith‐Bynum Mia A.
Published: November 2020

The frequent police killings during the COVID‐19 pandemic forced a reckoning among Americans from all backgrounds and propelled the Black Lives Matter movement into a global force. This manuscript addresses major issues to aid practitioners in the effective treatment of African Americans via the lens of Critical Race Theory and the Bioecological Model. We place the impacts of racism on Black families in historical context and outline the sources of Black family resilience. We critique structural racism embedded in all aspects of psychology and allied fields. We provide an overview of racial socialization and related issues affecting the parenting decisions in Black families, as well as a detailed overview of impacts of structural racism on couple dynamics. Recommendations are made for engaging racial issues in therapy, providing emotional support and validation to couples and families experiencing discrimination and racial trauma, and using Black cultural strengths as therapeutic resources.
Advance care planning and advance directive awareness among East Asian older adults: Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea
Authors: Kawakami Aki , Kwong Enid WY , Lai Claudia KY , Song Mi Sook , Boo Sunjoo , Yamamoto‐Mitani Noriko
Published: November 2020

Aim

Population aging is a global phenomenon, and East Asian countries are no exception. However, the use of advance care planning (ACP) and advance directives (ADs) are not widespread in East Asia. This study aimed to examine the awareness of ACP/ADs and its related factors among community‐dwelling older persons in Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional, cross‐cultural questionnaire conducted among a convenience sample of community‐dwelling persons. The questionnaire included information regarding awareness of ACP/ADs and personal information. Multiple logistic regression was used assess relationships between awareness of ACP/ADs and potential related factors.

Results

The sample consisted of 404 community‐dwelling older adults: 174 (43.0%) from Japan, 132 (32.7%) from Hong Kong and 98 (24.3%) from South Korea. In total, 122 participants (30.2%) had heard of ACP/ADs. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that an educational level >12 years was significantly associated with increased ACP/ADs awareness (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18–4.07, P = 0.01). The rate of those who have heard of ACP/ADs was significantly higher among Japanese than South Koreans were (AOR: 4.54, 95% CI: 1.64–12.58, P < 0.01), those from Hong Kong than South Korea (AOR: 5.15, 95% CI 1.89–14.0, P < 0.01) after some variables with significant differences among the three countries were controlled.

Conclusions

In particular, support tailored to the targets' educational levels will be required. It is also suggested that support is needed to enhance awareness of ACP/ADs in East Asia, although there is a difference in degree of awareness among the three countries. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 71–76.
Immune evaluation of aSaccharomyces cerevisiae‐based oral vaccine againstHelicobacter pyloriin mice
Authors: Cen Qianhong , Gao Tong , Ren Yi , Lu Xin , Lei Han
Published: November 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a common human pathogenic bacterium that is associated with gastric diseases. The current leading clinical therapy is combination antibiotics, but this treatment has safety issues, especially the induction of drug resistance. Therefore, developing a safe and effective vaccine againstH. pyloriis one of the best alternatives.

Objective

To developSaccharomyces cerevisiae(S. cerevisiae)‐based oral vaccines and then demonstrate the feasibility of this platform for preventingH. pyloriinfection in the absence of a mucosal adjuvant.

Materials and Methods

Saccharomyces cerevisiae(S. cerevisiae)‐based oral vaccines, including EBY100/pYD1‐UreB and EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, were generated and analyzed by Western blot, Immunofluorescence analysis, flow cytometric assay, and indirect enzyme‐link immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Further, antibody responses induced by oral administration of EBY100/pYD1‐UreB, EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, or EBY100/pYD1‐UreB + EBY100/pYD1‐VacA were measured in a mouse model. Lastly, the vaccinated mice were infected withH. pyloriSS1, and colonization in the stomach were evaluated.

Results

Saccharomyces cerevisiae‐basedH. pylorioral vaccines were successfully constructed. Mice orally administered with EBY100/pYD1‐UreB, EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, or EBY100/pYD1‐UreB + EBY100/pYD1‐VacA exhibited a significant humoral immune response as well as a mucosal immune response. Importantly,S. cerevisiae‐based oral vaccines could effectively reduce bacterial loads with statistical significance afterH. pyloriinfection.

Conclusions

Our study shows thatS. cerevisiae‐based platforms can serve as an alternative approach for the future development of promising bacterial oral vaccine candidates.
Characteristics of patients aged over 75 years with hepatitis C virus infection treated with direct‐acting antivirals in Japan: Evidence based on the nationwide, real‐world database in Japan
Authors: Masaki Naohiko , Kawasaki Youhei , Nozaki Yuichi , Yanase Mikio
Published: November 2020

Aim

Direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) have dramatically changed the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Their high efficacy helps in eradicating hepatitis C virus with few adverse events. Information on real‐world use of DAAs therapy in patients aged 75 years and older is inadequate.

Methods

The Japanese DAAs database was constructed in 2014 as a cooperative system between 18 prefectures. The medical reports filled in by doctors and anonymized at the local government office were collected. The patients' demographic features, viral factors, and treatment characteristics were compared among three groups stratified by age when therapy was initiated: Group A (<60 years old), Group B (60–74 years old), and Group C (≥75 years old).

Results

Out of the 22,454 patients whose age upon starting therapy could be identified, 24.8% (n = 5597) belonged to Group C, which was ten times the number in the Japanese Interferon Database. Female patients, advanced stages of liver fibrosis, and past history of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment were significantly higher in the older age groups (Group A < B < C), whereas sustained virologic response (SVR) rates were not different (91%–93%). In Group C, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that predicting factors for virologic response varied among DAAs regimens. However, the completion of DAAs therapy commonly contributed to SVR, regardless of DAAs regimen.

Conclusions

DAAs therapy is associated with high SVR rates, even in the oldest age group, and therapy should not be withheld on the basis of old age.
The diagnostic and clinical significance of granulomas in gastrointestinal biopsies from haematopoietic transplant patients
Authors: Wong Newton A C S , Marks David I
Published: November 2020

Aims

The diagnostic and clinical significance of granulomas in gastrointestinal (GI) biopsies from haematopoietic transplant patients remains disputed, especially following the proposal of cord colitis syndrome (CCS) as a new entity. The aim of the following study was to explore this controversy by identifying such biopsies with granulomas and detailing their clinicopathological associations.

Methods and results

Twelve patients with granuloma‐containing biopsies were identified from across three scenarios: prospectively during a GI pathologist’s routine practice over a period of 5 years; retrospectively from a cohort of transplant patients with clinically validated GI graft versus host disease (GVHD); and retrospectively from a cohort of patients who had received umbilical cord blood (UCB). Their clinicopathological assessments (which included unique long‐term patient follow‐up) showed that granulomas are only rarely seen across all GI biopsies from haematopoietic transplant patients, and may uncommonly constitute a histological feature of GI GVHD. Granulomas—and especially well‐defined, non‐cryptolytic ones—are more commonly present in GI biopsies from UCB recipients, but do not show any accompanying histological features that are different from those seen in granuloma‐containing biopsies from other patient groups. Furthermore, the three UCB recipients with granuloma‐containing biopsies were clinically diagnosed with GVHD rather than CCS. Finally, polymorphic post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) can present histologically as GI granulomatous inflammation that mimics Crohn’s disease.

Conclusions

Granulomas in GI biopsies of haematopoietic transplant patients may often indicate a treatable aetiology such as GVHD or PTLD. Granulomas are more commonly seen in GI biopsies from UCB recipients, but do not necessarily indicate a diagnosis of CCS.
A general scenario to evaluate evolution of grassland birds in the Neotropics
Authors: Norambuena Heraldo V. , Van Els Paul
Published: November 2020

Neotropical grassland birds are intimately tied to their habitat and form a phylogenetically diverse group that has been poorly studied from an evolutionary point of view. Here we present a brief review of the biogeographical history of Neotropical grasslands of relevance to grassland birds. Based on this review, we have formulated the most relevant hypotheses related to the diversification and evolution of Neotropical grassland birds. Several of the hypotheses tested are complementary to those that can be tested for forest birds and may offer the researcher fruitful foci of study for assessing the role of South American geological evolution in shaping the diversification of the world’s most diverse avifauna.
Combining citizen science and weather radar data to study large‐scale bird movements
Authors: Weisshaupt Nadja , Lehtiniemi Teemu , Koistinen Jarmo
Published: November 2020

The study of large‐scale animal mass movements requires suitable large‐scale sampling methods. Weather radar (WR) has been known to register biological targets since the 1960s. Arranged in large networks, radar is suitable to study regional to continent‐wide dynamics of aerofauna and to respond to increasing human–wildlife conflicts in the air. Tools for the spatiotemporal validation of faunistic interpretations of WR measurements in situ are only sparsely available. Citizen science (CS) bird observation repositories established in the past 20 years have accumulated millions of entries of species‐specific information well beyond their time of existence across vast areas. Together with other CS data sources, these databases can relieve the taxonomic shortcomings of WR and thus extend and refine the use of WR data. CS and WR data combined can efficiently provide large amounts of species‐specific data in three dimensions in a short time at low or no cost. Species‐specific data are particularly relevant to tackle loss of biodiversity, one of the greatest challenges in today's world. In this forum paper, we present features and qualities of ornithological CS and WR data, and their potential to provide unprecedented insights into regional to continent‐wide aerial movements of birds. We aim to discuss specific fields of applications where maximum information yield is to be expected, which is otherwise inaccessible, and in which way combined approaches would support biological research and derived data products and services for stakeholders, e.g. in aviation and the general public as beneficiaries.
Research on dental plaque removal methods for efficient oral prophylaxis: With a focus on air polishing and rubber cup polishing
Authors: Park Bo‐young , Kim Minjung , park Junghyun , Jeong Ju‐Hui , Noh Hiejin
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This study was conducted to compare the plaque control effectiveness of rubber cup polishing with that of air polishing during oral prophylaxis procedures and to investigate the effect of the order of air‐polishing application on the efficiency of oral prophylaxis.

Methods

The study included adult patients (≥20 years of age) who had visited the dental clinic for oral prophylaxis. A total of 173 subjects were divided into three groups (scaling followed by rubber cup polishing, SR; scaling followed by air polishing, SA; and air polishing followed by scaling, AS) based on sex, age, oral health status, oral hygiene status, and indications and contraindications according to the oral prophylaxis method. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the difference in oral prophylaxis time, residual deposits rate, subjects and dental hygienist satisfaction.

Results

The total scaling time was shorter in the AS group (15.4 ± 6.9 minutes) than in the SA (18.7 ± 5.5 minutes) and SR groups (19.9 ± 6.2 minutes) (p < 0.05). The rate of residual deposits was significantly higher in the SR group than in the AS or SA groups (p < 0.05). The satisfaction level of dental hygienists was higher in the AS group (8.8 ± 1.0 points) and the SA group (8.4 ± 1.0 points) than in the SR group (6.2 ± 1.3 points).

Conclusion

During oral prophylaxis, dental plaque removal using air polishing requires a relatively longer time when compared to rubber cup polishing, but it can better eliminate dental plaque. In addition, we found that dental plaque removal using air polishing prior to scaling reduced the total scaling time.
Soluble Transferrin Receptor during infancy and reference intervals for the Roche Cobas platform
Authors: Larsson Sara Marie , Hillarp Andreas , Karlsland Åkeson Pia , Hellström‐Westas Lena , Domellöf Magnus , Askelöf Ulrica , Götherström Cecilia , Andersson Ola
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Infant iron status assessments may be difficult to interpret due to infections. The soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) has been suggested as a biomarker mainly unaffected by the acute phase response. Reference intervals reflecting dynamics of infant growth first year in life are not well established.

Methods

The sTfR and CRP concentrations were measured in samples from 451 term infants with the Roche Cobas platform in umbilical cord, at 48‐96 hours, 4 and 12 months. Reference values were constructed as the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles. The relationship between CRP concentrations >1 mg/L and sTfR was tested by Kendall correlation.

Results

Reference intervals for girls and boys were 2.4‐9.5 mg/L at birth, 2.9‐8.4 mg/L at 48‐96 hours, 2.6‐5.7 mg/L at 4 months and 3.0‐6.3 mg/L at 12 months. No differences between sexes were observed except for at 4 months. sTfR did not covariate with CRP concentrations >1 mg/L except in 48‐96 hours samples.

Conclusion

This study reports reference intervals for sTfR from birth to 12 months of age in a large group of infants in a low‐risk area for iron deficiency. sTfR might add value to infant iron status diagnostics since no covariation with CRP was found at birth, at 4 months or at 12 months.
Real‐world diagnostic testing patterns for assessment of ring sideroblasts and SF3B1 mutations in patients with newly diagnosed lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Patel Jay L. , Abedi Mehrdad , Cogle Christopher R. , Erba Harry P. , Foucar Kathryn , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Grinblatt David L. , Komrokji Rami S. , Kurtin Sandra E. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Pollyea Daniel A. , Revicki Dennis A. , Roboz Gail J. , Savona Michael R. , Scott Bart L. , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Steensma David P. , Thompson Michael A. , Dawn Flick Elizabeth , Kiselev Pavel , Louis Chrystal U. , Nifenecker Melissa , Swern Arlene S. , George Tracy I.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The presence of ring sideroblasts (RS) and mutation of the SF3B1 gene are diagnostic of lower‐risk (LR) myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and are correlated with favorable outcomes. However, information on testing and reporting in community‐based clinical settings is scarce. This study from the Connect® MDS/AML Disease Registry aimed to compare the frequency of RS and SF3B1 reporting for patients with LR‐MDS, before and after publication of the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) MDS classification criteria.

Methods

Ring sideroblasts assessment and molecular testing data were collected from patients with LR‐MDS at enrollment in the Registry. Patients enrolled between December 2013 and the data cutoff of March 2020 were included in this analysis.

Results

Among 489 patients with LR‐MDS, 434 (88.8%) underwent RS assessment; 190 were assessed prior to the 2016 WHO guidelines (Cohort A), and 244 after (Cohort B). In Cohort A, 87 (45.8%) patients had RS identified; 29 (33.3%) patients had RS < 15%, none of whom underwent molecular testing for SF3B1. In Cohort B, 96 (39.3%) patients had RS identified; 31 (32.3%) patients had < 15% RS, with 13 undergoing molecular testing of which 10 were assessed for SF3B1.

Conclusions

In the Connect® MDS/AML Registry, only 32% of patients with <15% RS underwent SF3B1 testing after the publication of the WHO 2016 classification criteria. There was no change in RS assessment frequency before and after publication, despite the potential impact on diagnostic subtyping and therapy selection, suggesting an unmet need for education to increase testing rates for SF3B1 mutations.
Working‐time preferences among women: Challenging assumptions on underemployment, work centrality and work–life balance
Authors: LAMOLLA Laura , FOLGUERA‐I‐BELLMUNT Conxita , FERNÁNDEZ‐I‐MARÍN Xavier
Published: November 2020

This article examines the working‐time preferences of women working 20‐hour weeks, on different, stable schedules, in manufacturing jobs. The authors conducted qualitative and quantitative research to identify worker profiles based on these women's working‐time preferences and the reasons for them. Their findings add nuance to previous research by highlighting that: (1) some, but not all, of these employees can be considered underemployed; (2) working 20 hours a week does not equate to low work centrality and is compatible with working hours being experienced as meaningful; (3) some part‐time women workers want to keep time for non‐caring, non‐working activities despite earning a low salary.
Comprehensive analysis of inhibitory checkpoint ligand expression by glioblastoma cells
Authors: Robilliard Laverne D , Yu Jane , Anchan Akshata , Joseph Wayne , Finlay Graeme , Angel Catherine E , Scott Graham E
Published: November 2020

Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive brain malignancy commonly refractory to classical and novel chemo‐, radio‐ and immunotherapies, with median survival times of ~15 months following diagnosis. Poor immunological responses exemplified by the downregulation of T‐cell activity, and upregulation of immunosuppressive cells within the tumor microenvironment have limited the effectiveness of immunotherapy in glioblastoma to date. Here we show that glioblastoma cells express a large repertoire of inhibitory checkpoint ligands known to control effector T cell responses. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis reveals that glioblastoma cells with an enhanced stem cell‐like phenotype express several investigated ligands at significant levels on their cell surface. This reveals that glioblastoma stem‐like cells express suppressive ligands with the potential of suppressing major T cell checkpoint receptors. With this information, it is now essential that we understand the relevance of this extensive repertoire of immune checkpoint ligands and their functional consequence on immune evasion in glioblastoma. This is necessary to develop effective immunotherapeutics and to be able to match treatment to patient, especially in the light of CheckMate 143.
‘What would a trauma‐informed mental health service look like?’ Perspectives of people who access services
Authors: Isobel Sophie , Wilson Allyson , Gill Katherine , Howe Deborah
Published: November 2020

Trauma‐informed care is an approach to the delivery of mental health care based on an awareness of the high prevalence of trauma in the lives of people accessing mental health services, the effects of trauma experiences and the potential for trauma or re‐traumatization to occur in the context of care. Across Australia, inquiries and reports have increasingly indicated an urgent need for mental health services to become trauma‐informed. However, how Australian mental health services should deliver trauma‐informed care is not well documented. Efforts towards trauma‐informed care in any setting require engagement with those who receive care. This qualitative study used an experience‐based co‐design methodology to explore the perspectives of consumers of mental health services in Australia and their family members, in relation to the question ‘what would a trauma‐informed mental health service look like?’ Focus groups were held with consumers (n = 10) and carers (n = 10). Thematic analysis of transcripts identified that consumers and carers consider that trauma‐informed care requires increased awareness of trauma amongst mental health staff, opportunities to collaborate in care, active efforts by services to build trust and create safety, the provision of a diversity of models and consistency and continuation of care. The findings provide important new information about the experiences of Australian service users and have implications for the implementation of trauma‐informed care across settings.
Protective stabilization in pediatric dentistry: A qualitative study on the perceptions of mothers, psychologists, and pediatric dentists
Authors: Ilha Mariana Cezar , Feldens Carlos Alberto , Razera Josiane , Vivian Aline Groff , de Rosa Barros Coelho Elisa Maria , Kramer Paulo Floriani
Published: November 2020

Background

Evidence regarding the feelings evoked, distress caused, and the best way to conduct protective stabilization for the management of young children is lacking.

Aim

Describe the perceptions of mothers, psychologists, and pediatric dentists regarding the use of protective stabilization during the dental care of children up to three years of age attending a University Dental Clinic in southern Brazil.

Design

After watching a video of dental care involving the protective stabilization technique, individualized qualitative interviews were held with three groups [mothers (n = 5), psychologists (n = 7), and pediatric dentists (n = 4)] to investigate four categories of interest: importance of the technique, affective attitude, distress caused to the child, and participation of parents. After the transcription of the recorded comments, qualitative content analysis was performed.

Results

Protective stabilization generated emotional discomfort but was well accepted by all groups. All expressed the need to create a bond between the dentist and caregiver; and the active participation of the caregiver was considered fundamental. The mothers and psychologists rejected other options, such as passive restraint, general anesthesia, and sedation.

Conclusion

The three groups admitted having negative feelings, recognized the importance of protective stabilization, and suggested conditions for its use.
Restorative thresholds for primary and permanent molars in children: French dentist decisions
Authors: Muller‐Bolla Michèle , Aïem Elody , Coulot Cyril , Velly Ana Miriam , Doméjean Sophie
Published: November 2020

Background

Worldwide, numerous surveys have investigated practices and knowledge about caries management in adults, but few are available for children.

Aim

The present cross‐sectional survey aimed to assess the restorative thresholds (RTs) in primary and permanent molars in children used by a population of dentists treating children and practicing in France.

Design

The study population consisted of French dentists treating children (Fr‐DTCs) who were registered in the French Society of Pediatric Dentistry (n = 250). A specific questionnaire was developed. Descriptive and statistical analyses were performed.

Results

Response rate was 80.4% (n = 201). Considering that an appropriate RT is at the stage of a moderate lesion (occlusal: International Caries Detection and Assessment System 4; approximal: lesion involving the external third of dentine), more than 50% of respondents showed a tendency for iatrogenic treatment, except for occlusal carious lesions in primary molars. Inappropriate invasive strategies were more often reported for occlusal lesions in permanent than primary molars. Moreover, for both molar types, these inappropriate RTs were more often chosen for approximal than occlusal lesions.

Conclusions

The present survey suggested that Fr‐DTCs tend to overtreat in terms of caries management in both primary and permanent molars.
The efficacy of dental sealant used with bonding agent on occlusal caries (ICDAS 2‐4): A 24‐month randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kasemkhun Pornpailin , Nakornchai Siriruk , Phonghanyudh Araya , Srimaneekarn Natchalee
Published: November 2020

Background

Bonding before sealant application enhances retention on saliva‐contaminated sound teeth; however, there are few studies of bonding's efficacy on sealant retention on occlusal caries.

Aim

To evaluate a bonding agent's efficacy on sealant retention on occlusal caries and caries transition.

Design

One hundred twenty pairs of first permanent molars with occlusal caries (ICDAS 2‐4) from 98 children aged 7.3‐9.9 years were included. One molar was randomly selected to use bonding (Adper™ Single Bond 2, 3M ESPE) applied before sealant application (Helioseal®clear, Ivoclar Vivadent). Bonding was not used on the contralateral tooth. Retention was determined using Simonsen's criteria; caries transition was evaluated using ICDAS scores, DIAGNOdent values, and bitewings at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months. Data were analyzed with McNemar's and Fisher's exact tests.

Results

Bonding agent use significantly increased sealant retention rates (P < .001). Bonded (B) sealants had a higher retention rate (83.3%) than non‐bonded (NB) sealants (53.7%). The difference in the caries‐transition rate was not significant between the groups (P > .05). Three teeth (1.4%; NB:B = 2:1) were restored due to radiographic dentin‐caries progression.

Conclusions

Using a bonding agent before applying sealant on permanent molar occlusal caries (ICDAS 2‐4) significantly enhanced sealant retention. Caries progression was rarely detected at the 24‐month follow‐up.
Mechanical reliability of Ce0.8Gd0.2O2−δ‐FeCo2O4 dual phase membranes synthesized by one‐step solid‐state reaction
Authors: Zeng Fanlin , Malzbender Jürgen , Baumann Stefan , Zhou Wenyu , Ziegner Mirko , Nijmeijer Arian , Guillon Olivier , Schwaiger Ruth , Albert Meulenberg Wilhelm
Published: November 2020

Ce0.8Gd0.2O2−δ‐FeCo2O4 composites are attractive candidate materials for high‐purity oxygen generation providing robust chemical stability. Aiming for future industrial applications, a feasible solid‐state reaction process with one thermal processing step was used to synthesize 50 wt% Ce0.8Gd0.2O2−δ:50 wt% FeCo2O4 and 85 wt% Ce0.8Gd0.2O2−δ:15 wt% FeCo2O4 composites. Mechanical reliabilities of the sintered membranes were assessed based on the characterized mechanical properties and subcritical crack growth behavior. In general, the fracture strengths of as‐sintered membranes were reduced by tensile residual stresses and microcracks. In particular, the enhanced subcritical crack growth behavior, which leads to limited stress tolerance and high failure probability after a 10‐year operation, was evaluated in more detail. Further materials and processing improvements are needed to eliminate the tensile stress and microcracks to warrant a long‐term reliable operation of the composites.
Hypertension, medications, and risk of severe COVID‐19: A Massachusetts community‐based observational study
Authors: Bauer Ann Z. , Gore Rebecca , Sama Susan R. , Rosiello Richard , Garber Lawrence , Sundaresan Devi , McDonald Anne , Arruda Patricia , Kriebel David
Published: November 2020

It remains uncertain whether the hypertension (HT) medications angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) mitigate or exacerbate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. We evaluated the association of ACEi and ARB with severe coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) as defined by hospitalization or mortality among individuals diagnosed with COVID‐19. We investigated whether these associations were modified by age, the simultaneous use of the diuretic thiazide, and the health conditions associated with medication use. In an observational study utilizing data from a Massachusetts group medical practice, we identified 1449 patients with a COVID‐19 diagnosis. In our study, pre‐infection comorbidities including HT, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes were associated with increased risk of severe COVID‐19. Risk was further elevated in patients under age 65 with these comorbidities or cancer. Twenty percent of those with severe COVID‐19 compared to 9% with less severe COVID‐19 used ACEi, 8% and 4%, respectively, used ARB. In propensity score‐matched analyses, use of neither ACEi (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.81) nor ARB (OR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.55) was associated with increased risk of severe COVID‐19. Thiazide use did not modify this relationship. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anticoagulant medications were not associated with COVID‐19 severity. In conclusion, cardiovascular‐related comorbidities were associated with severe COVID‐19 outcomes, especially among patients under age 65. We found no substantial increased risk of severe COVID‐19 among patients taking antihypertensive medications. Our findings support recommendations against discontinuing use of renin–angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors to prevent severe COVID‐19.
Hypoxic bone marrow mesenchymal cell‐extracellular vesicles containing miR‐328‐3p promote lung cancer progression via the NF2‐mediated Hippo axis
Authors: Liu Xi , Jiang Feng , Wang Zhilinag , Tang Lang , Zou Bin , Xu Pengfei , Yu Tenghua
Published: November 2020

Lung cancer is the most aggressive tumour afflicting patients on a global scale. Extracellular vesicle (EV)‐delivered microRNAs (miRs) have been reported to play critical roles in cancer development. The current study aimed to investigate the role of hypoxic bone marrow mesenchymal cell (BMSC)‐derived EVs containing miR‐328‐3p in lung cancer. miR‐328‐3p expression was determined in a set of lung cancer tissues by RT‐qPCR. BMSCs were infected with lentivirus‐mediated miR‐328‐3p knock‐down and then cultured in normoxic or hypoxic conditions, followed by isolation of EVs. Following ectopic expression and depletion experiments in lung cancer cells, the biological functions of miR‐328‐3p were analysed using CCK‐8 assay, flow cytometry and Transwell assay. Xenograft in nude mice was performed to test the in vivo effects of miR‐328‐3p delivered by hypoxic BMSC‐derived EVs on tumour growth of lung cancer. Finally, the expression of circulating miR‐328‐3p was detected in the serum of lung cancer patients. miR‐328‐3p was highly expressed in EVs derived from hypoxic BMSCs. miR‐328‐3p was delivered to lung cancer cells by hypoxic BMSC‐derived EVs, thereby promoting lung cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. miR‐328‐3p targeted NF2 to inactivate the Hippo pathway. Moreover, EV‐delivered miR‐328‐3p increased tumour growth in vivo. Additionally, circulating miR‐328‐3p was bioactive in the serum of lung cancer patients. Taken together, our results demonstrated that hypoxic BMSC‐derived EVs could deliver miR‐328‐3p to lung cancer cells and that miR‐328‐3p targets the NF2 gene, thereby inhibiting the Hippo pathway to ultimately promote the occurrence and progression of lung cancer.
Nucleolin regulates the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic via Aurora B
Authors: Sun Hui , Huang Lingjin , Liang Pengfei , Tang Yuting , Chen Cheng , Chen Huan , Lin Xiaofang , Luo Zhengyang , Li Ying , Jiang Bimei , Xiao Xianzhong
Published: November 2020

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a significant role in atherosclerosis. As a multifunctional protein, nucleolin (NCL) is involved in many important physiological and pathological processes. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of nucleolin in VSMCs proliferation and cell cycle. The expression of nucleolin increased in VSMCs of mice with aortas advanced plaques. With the left common carotid‐artery ligation‐injury model, immunofluorescence staining revealed that nucleolin and Ki67 expression increased in VSMCs in mice left carotid artery compared with right carotid artery after surgery. POVPC or ox‐LDL up‐regulated nucleolin mRNA and protein expression in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in HAVSMCs. POVPC (5μg/ml) or ox‐LDL (50μg/ml) promoted the proliferation of HAVSMCs. Nucleolin ablation relieved the pro‐proliferation role of VSMCs. The cell cycle assay and cell ability results showing that POVPC or ox‐LDL increased the proliferation, but nucleolin ablation inhibited the proliferation of HAVSMCs. And nucleolin ablation can prevent DNA replication at S phase and induce cell cycle arrest in S phase. The bioinformatics database predicts protein‐protein interactions with nucleolin and aurora B. Nucleolin overexpression and ablation affected the expression of aurora B. These findings indicate for the first time that nucleolin actively involved the proliferation of VSMCs via aurora B.
Fluctuations in pelagic fish density linked to ambient conditions
Authors: Holubová Michaela , Hejzlar Josef , Čech Martin , Vašek Mojmír , Blabolil Petr , Peterka Jiří
Published: November 2020

Animal behaviour has been broadly studied for its social or functional aspects but less often for understanding the interactions between organisms and their ambient conditions. A pilot observational study was performed by means of underwater camera to investigate the correlation between environmental factors and the density of fish in the epipelagic habitat of a European temperate reservoir. Explored factors confirmed a positive correlation between water temperature and all observed categories: nonpredatory, predatory, single nonpredatory and schooling fish, as well as freshwater bream and roach. On the other hand, de‐trended solar irradiance was found to be negatively correlated with density of nonpredatory fish, freshwater bream and European perch. Sunshine duration was negatively correlated with the density of predatory fish. Precipitation a showed positive relationship with single nonpredatory fish and European perch, whereas wind strength had a negative relationship with density of schooling fish. Furthermore, density of predatory fish was positively correlated with density of single nonpredatory fish and counts of observed clusters. Altogether, findings indicate that fish density is correlated with abiotic factors and the occurrence of predators. This suggests that more ecologically complex studies should be encouraged for better understanding of ecological interactions that drive the structure of aquatic ecosystems.
Molecular cloning, characterization and expression analysis of major histocompatibility complex class I alpha gene of pufferfish (Takifugu obscurus)
Authors: Fu Shengli , Liu Haisu , Huang Yu , Wang Junru , Qian Kun , Ding Mingmei , Ye Jianmin
Published: November 2020

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play a key role in immune response in vertebrates. In this study, an MHC I alpha homolog gene (PfMHC Ⅰα) from pufferfish (Takifugu obscurus) was identified and its subcellular localization and expression patterns of PfMHC Ⅰα after challenge in vivo and in vitro were analysed. The open reading frame of PfMHC Ⅰα was 1,089 bp in length, encoding 362 aa. The immunofluorescence result revealed that PfMHC Ⅰα was presented on the membrane of lymphocytes. qRT‐PCR analysis indicated that PfMHC Ⅰα was expressed in all examined tissues, with the highest expression in skin, followed by the expression in gills and whole blood. After challenge of Aeromonas hydrophila or polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) in vitro, the expression levels of PfMHC Ⅰα on pufferfish kidney lymphocytes were significantly up‐regulated, with the highest expression level at 48 hr post‐challenge. After infection with A. hydrophila or Poly I:C in vivo, the expression levels of PfMHC Ⅰα in the skin, whole blood and kidneys were significantly up‐regulated. Taken together, it is speculated that PfMHC Ⅰα associates with resistance to both intracellular and extracellular antigens and plays an important role in the host response against pathogen infection in pufferfish.
Pre‐procedure intravenous lidocaine administration on propofol consumption for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A prospective, randomized, double‐blind study
Authors: Ates Irem , Aydin Muhammed Enes , Albayrak Bulent , Disci Esra , Ahiskalioglu Elif Oral , Celik Erkan Cem , Baran Onur , Ahiskalioglu Ali
Published: November 2020

Background and Aim

The endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedure is generally performed in patients with high comorbidity. We aimed to reduce the consumption of propofol by adding lidocaine before ERCP.

Methods

Eighty ERCP patients with ASA I–III, aged between 45–75 years, were randomly divided into two groups. Lidocaine group (group L, n = 40), received 1‐mg midazolam, 1.5 mg/kg lidocaine, and 1 mg/kg propofol intravenously. The control group (group C, n = 40) received 1‐mg midazolam, saline in the same volume as the lidocaine group, and 1 mg/kg propofol intravenously. Propofol was administered with intermittent bolus doses. Propofol consumption, oropharyngeal reflex, recovery time, endoscopist satisfaction, ketamine need, and side‐effects were recorded.

Results

Propofol consumption during the procedure was statistically lower in group L than in the control group (157.25 ± 39.16 mg vs 228.75 ± 64.62 mg respectively, P < 0.001). Additionally, recovery time was statistically faster in group L compared with the control group (7.78 ± 3.95 min vs 11.92 ± 3.24 min respectively, P < 0.001). The oropharyngeal reflex was less in group L than control group (6/40 vs 15/40 respectively, P = 0.042). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding visual analogue scale scores and endoscopist satisfaction (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

We recommend the use of intravenous lidocaine before the ERCP procedure as it reduces propofol consumption, recovery times, and oropharyngeal reflex.
Safety and immunogenicity of 17DD attenuated yellow fever vaccine in howler monkeys (Alouatta spp.)
Authors: Tavares da Silva Fernandes André , Moreira Silvia Bahadian , Gaspar Luciane Pinto , Simões Marisol , Cajaraville Ana Carolina dos Reis Albuquerque , Pereira Renata Carvalho , Gomes Mariana Pierre de Barros , Linhares José Henrique Rezende , Santos Vanessa de Oliveira , Santos Renata Tourinho , Amorim Juliana Fernandes , Barros Tamiris Azamor da Costa , Melgaço Juliana Gil , da Silva Andréa Marques Vieira , Fernandes Camilla Bayma , Tubarão Luciana Neves , da Silva Jane , Caride Elena Cristina , Borges Maria Beatriz , Guimarães Rosane Cuber , Marchevsky Renato Sérgio , de Lima Sheila Maria Barbosa , Ano Bom Ana Paula Dinis , Neves Patrícia Cristina da Costa , Pissinatti Alcides , Freire Marcos da Silva
Published: November 2020

Background

Alouatta spp. are highly susceptible to yellow fever (YF) infection and develop an often fatal disease. The threat posed by an outbreak started in 2016 leads us to investigate vaccination as a potential tool in preventing YF in non‐human primates (NHP).

Methods

Susceptible howler monkeys were immunized with three different concentrations of the human Brazilian commercial YF17DD vaccine. Post‐vaccination viremia/RNAemia, immunogenicity, and safety were characterized.

Results

The vaccine did not produce YF clinical manifestations in any of the NHPs. After immunization, all animals seroconverted demonstrating the ability of the YF vaccine to induce humoral response in Alouatta species.

Conclusions

The present work has demonstrated the safe and immunogenic profile of the existing YF 17DD vaccine in howler monkeys. This knowledge may support further studies with other susceptible monkey species and provide a possible solution for controlling epizootics and preventing the devastation of endangered species.
Treating disorders across the lifespan by modulating cholinergic signaling with galantamine
Authors: Metz Christine N. , Pavlov Valentin A.
Published: November 2020

Advances in understanding the regulatory functions of the nervous system have revealed neural cholinergic signaling as a key regulator of cytokine responses and inflammation. Cholinergic drugs, including the centrally acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, galantamine, which are in clinical use for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, have been rediscovered as anti‐inflammatory agents. Here, we provide a timely update on this active research and clinical developments. We summarize the involvement of cholinergic mechanisms and inflammation in the pathobiology of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia, and the effectiveness of galantamine treatment. We also highlight recent findings demonstrating the effects of galantamine in preclinical and clinical settings of numerous conditions and diseases across the lifespan that are characterized by immunological, neurological, and metabolic dysfunction.

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An anatomical comparison of the fasciae of the thigh: A macroscopic, microscopic and ultrasound imaging study
Authors: Pirri Carmelo , Fede Caterina , Petrelli Lucia , Guidolin Diego , Fan Chenglei , De Caro Raffaele , Stecco Carla
Published: November 2020

Although the number of Ultrasound (US) imaging studies investigating the fascial layers are becoming more numerous, the majority tend to use different reference points and terminology to describe their findings. The current work set out to compare macroscopic and microscopic data of specimens of the fascial layers of the thigh with US imaging findings. Specimens of the different fascial layers of various regions of the thigh were collected for macroscopic and histological analyses from three fresh cadavers and compared with in vivo US images of the thighs of 20 healthy volunteers. The specimens showed that the subcutaneous tissue of the thigh is made up of three layers: a superficial adipose layer, a membranous layer/superficial fascia, and a deep adipose layer. The deep fascia is composed of an aponeurotic fascia, which envelops all the thigh muscles and is laterally reinforced by the iliotibial tract and an epimysial fascia, which is specific for each muscle. The morphometric measurements of the thickness of the superficial fascia were different (anterior: 153.2 ± 39.3 µm; medial: 128.4 ± 24.7 µm; lateral: 154 ± 28.9 µm; and posterior: 148.8 ± 33.2 µm) as were those of the deep fascia (anterior: 556.8 ± 176.2 µm; medial: 820.4 ± 201 µm; lateral: 1112 ± 237.9 µm; and posterior: 730.4 ± 186.5 µm). The US scans showed a clear picture of the superficial adipose tissue, the superficial fascia, and the deep adipose tissue, as well as the deep fasciae. The epimysial and aponeurotic fasciae of only some topographic areas could be independently identified. The US imaging findings confirmed that the superficial and deep fascia have different thicknesses, and they showed that the US measurements were always larger with respect to those produced by histological analysis (p < 0.001) probably due to shrinkage during the processing. The posterior region (level 1) of the superficial fascia had, for example, a mean thickness of 0.56 ± 0.12 mm at US, while the histological analysis showed that it was 148.8 ± 33.2 µm. Showing a similar pattern, the thickness of the deep fascia was as follows: 1.64 ± 0.85 mm versus 730.4 ± 186.5 µm. Study results have confirmed that US can be considered a valid, non‐invasive instrument to evaluate the fascial layers. In any event, there is a clear need for a set of standardised protocols since the thickness of the fascial layers of different parts of the human body varies and the data obtained using inaccurate reference points are not reproducible or comparable. Given the inconsistent terminology used to describe the fascial system, it would also be important to standardise the terminology used to define its parts. The difficulty in distinguishing between the epimysial and aponeurotic/deep fascia can also impede data interpretation.
Comparison of tumescent local anesthesia vs normal anesthesia technology in upper blepharoplasty in Asian women
Authors: Cao Lin , Zhu Fei
Published: November 2020

Background

Blepharoplasty is the most common type of plastic surgery, used to improve most of the eyelid skin sag caused by aging. In the past, local infiltration anesthesia was widely used in blepharoplasty. Tumescent local analgesia (TLA) is safe and reliable method for anesthesia, even children can use this method.

Aims

This research aimed to systematically compare the differences between conventional local infiltration anesthesia and TLA in blepharoplasty.

Patients/Methods

One hundred and seventy‐eight bilateral upper blepharoplasty patients participated in this research. Visual analog scale (VAS) was employed to evaluate the postoperative pain in the patients. Periorbital appearances are based on light photography and judged by both medical and nonmedical panel.

Results

The use of TLA decreased the surgery duration but had no influence on the other surgery characteristics of upper blepharoplasty. Using TLA for anesthesia in bilateral upper blepharoplasty generated less pain than using local infiltration anesthesia. At day 7 after upper blepharoplasty, the rate of generation of both ecchymosis and erythema in normal anesthesia (NA) side were higher than in TLA side. The satisfaction of patients after upper blepharoplasty was not influenced by the use of different anesthesia methods.

Conclusion

Compared with the normal anesthesia technology, the use of TLA in the upper blepharoplasty shortened the surgery duration, alleviated the postoperative pain, and mitigated the generation of ecchymosis and erythema. So, TLA is suitable for the performance of anesthesia in blepharoplasty.
Broad ligament pregnancy: A case series and literature review
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Liu , Fang Jing , Wang Yu
Published: November 2020

Broad ligament pregnancies are rare and are often misdiagnosed, leading to serious consequences. In our hospital, we have treated six broad ligament pregnancies since 2000. They were diagnosed and operated on promptly, and treatment was successful. Ultrasound can detect early ectopic pregnancies promptly and effectively, avoiding advanced ectopic pregnancies. Early broad ligament pregnancies should be operated on promptly, and laparoscopic therapy is preferable. During the operation, attention must be paid to avoid massive bleeding and protect the ureter, because the ectopic gestational sac is located near the uterine artery and the ureter.