bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgically treated ovarian lesions in preadolescent girls
Authors: Ripatti Liisi , Taskinen Mervi , Koivusalo Antti , Taskinen Seppo
Published: August 2019

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and characteristics of surgically treated ovarian lesions in preadolescent girls.

Material and methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including all 0‐ to 11‐year‐old girls operated at a single center from 1999 to 2016 for ovarian cysts, neoplasms or torsions. Patient charts were reviewed for symptoms, preoperative radiological imaging, operative details and histopathology.

Results

We identified 78 girls, resulting in a population‐based incidence of 4.2/100 000. Infants (n = 44) presented with benign cysts (42/44, 95%, one bilateral), a benign neoplasm (1/44, 2%) and a torsion without other pathology (1/44, 2%). Torsion was found in 25/29 (86%) ovaries with complex cysts and in 3/15 (21%) ovaries with simple cysts in preoperative imaging (P < 0.001). Most infants were symptomless. Lesions in 1‐ to 11‐year‐old girls (n = 34) included benign neoplasms (n = 21/34, 62%), malignant neoplasms (n = 5/34, 15%), a cyst with torsion (n = 1/34, 3%) and torsions without other pathology (n = 7/34, 21%). Torsion was more common in benign (17/21, 81%) than in malignant neoplasms (1/5, 20%) (P < 0.020). Ovarian diameter did not differ between ovaries with or without torsion (P = 0.238) or between benign and malignant neoplasms (P = 0.293). The duration of symptoms in lesions with or without torsion was similar.

Conclusions

The majority of surgically treated ovarian lesions in preadolescent are benign lesions with torsion. Surgery should be ovary‐preserving and performed without delay.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to image active and inactive retinoblastomas as well as retinomas
Authors: Nadiarnykh Oleg , McNeill‐Badalova Nuray A. , Gaillard Marie‐Claire , Bosscha Machteld I. , Fabius Armida W.M. , Verbraak Frank D. , Munier Francis L. , de Boer Johannes F. , Moll Annette C.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To illustrate Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) images of active and inactive retinoblastoma (Rb) tumours.

Methods

Current observational study included patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma and retinoma who were presented at Amsterdam UMC and Jules‐Gonin Eye Hospital, between November 2010 and October 2017. Patients aged between 0 and 4 years were imaged under general anaesthesia with handheld OCT in supine position. Patients older than 4 years were imaged with the conventional OCT (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg Spectralis, Germany). All patients included were divided into two groups: active and inactive tumours (retinoma and regression patterns). Patients’ medical records and OCT images were analysed during meetings via discussions by ophthalmologists and physicists.

Results

Twelve Dutch and 8 Swiss patients were divided into two groups: 2 patients with active tumour versus 18 patients with inactive tumour. Subsequently, inactive group could be divided in two groups, which consisted of 10 patients with retinoma and 8 patients with different regression pattern types. Of all included patients, 15 were male (75%). Median age at diagnosis was 18.0 months (range 0.19–715.2 months). A total of 12 retinoblastoma (active and inactive) and 8 retinoma foci were investigated by OCT. No distinction could be made between active and inactive tumours using only OCT.

Conclusion

Optical coherence tomography alone cannot distinguish between active and inactive Rbs. However, handheld OCT adds useful information to the established imaging techniques in the monitoring and follow‐up of retinoblastoma patients. With this study, we provide an overview of OCT images of active and inactive Rbs.
Review article: direct‐acting antivirals for the treatment of HCV during pregnancy and lactation ‐ implications for maternal dosing, foetal exposure, and safety for mother and child
Authors: Freriksen Jolien J. M. , van Seyen Minou , Judd Ali , Gibb Diana M. , Collins Intira J. , Greupink Rick , Russel Frans G. M. , Drenth Joost P. H. , Colbers Angela , Burger David M.
Published: August 2019

Background

With the global efforts to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV), treatment during pregnancy is becoming a priority for research as this, and maternal cure should reduce vertical transmission. However, as information on the efficacy and safety of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) in pregnancy is generally lacking, treatment of HCV infection during pregnancy is not currently recommended.

Aim

To provide an overview of current knowledge regarding maternal exposure, placental handling and safety of DAAs during pregnancy and lactation

Methods

A literature search was performed focusing on the effect of pregnancy on maternal exposure to DAAs, the placental handling of DAAs, the safety of DAAs for mother and child during pregnancy and the safety of DAAs during lactation.

Results

Exposure to all DAAs studied is likely to be altered during pregnancy, mostly related to pregnancy‐induced effects on drug absorption and metabolism. Although animal studies show that most DAAs are reported to cross the placenta and transfer into breast milk, most DAA combinations show a favourable safety profile. Because of the rapid viral decline after treatment initiation, and to avoid the critical period of organogenesis, treatment may be started at the end of the second trimester or early third trimester.

Conclusions

Treatment of HCV infection during pregnancy is realistic, as DAAs are highly effective and treatment duration is relatively short. There is an urgent need to study DAAs during pregnancy and lactation to contribute to the goal of HCV elimination.
A geostatistical framework for combining spatially referenced disease prevalence data from multiple diagnostics
Authors: Amoah Benjamin , Diggle Peter J. , Giorgi Emanuele
Published: August 2019

Multiple diagnostic tests are often used due to limited resources or because they provide complementary information on the epidemiology of a disease under investigation. Existing statistical methods to combine prevalence data from multiple diagnostics ignore the potential overdispersion induced by the spatial correlations in the data. To address this issue, we develop a geostatistical framework that allows for joint modelling of data from multiple diagnostics by considering two main classes of inferential problems: (a) to predict prevalence for a gold‐standard diagnostic using low‐cost and potentially biased alternative tests; (b) to carry out joint prediction of prevalence from multiple tests. We apply the proposed framework to two case studies: mapping Loa loa prevalence in Central and West Africa, using miscroscopy, and a questionnaire‐based test called RAPLOA; mapping Plasmodium falciparum malaria prevalence in the highlands of Western Kenya using polymerase chain reaction and a rapid diagnostic test. We also develop a Monte Carlo procedure based on the variogram in order to identify parsimonious geostatistical models that are compatible with the data. Our study highlights (a) the importance of accounting for diagnostic‐specific residual spatial variation and (b) the benefits accrued from joint geostatistical modelling so as to deliver more reliable and precise inferences on disease prevalence.
Tinnitus groups: A model of social support and social connectedness from peer interaction
Authors: Pryce Helen , Moutela Tiago , Bunker Colette , Shaw Rachel
Published: August 2019

Tinnitus is a chronic condition for which there is no medical treatment. Tinnitus groups are a widely available resource for people with tinnitus.

Objectives

Our objectives were to explore the active ingredients of tinnitus support groups in terms of their mechanisms for providing support, the contextual factors that elicit such mechanisms, and the outcomes in terms of coping enhancement.

Design

We adopted a pluralist and iterative approach informed by the realist evaluation method.

Methods

We conducted ethnographic data generation at tinnitus support groups involving observations (n = 160), focus groups (n = 130), and individual interviews (n = 20). Inductive analyses were conducted following the constant comparison method of grounded theory. We then interrogated the inductive themes to identify evidence of Contexts, Mechanisms, and Outcomes. We then produced a model which was tested in a survey of tinnitus group members (n = 65) in effect providing large‐scale respondent validation of the data‐driven model created through our inductive analysis.

Results

We identified that tinnitus groups can facilitate social connectedness between group members. This experience appeared to build resilience among those experiencing tinnitus‐related distress. Groups also played a role in building a sense of control related to knowledge and information sharing. Additionally, we identified risks associated with not accessing social support in a group environment.

Conclusions

Our findings contribute to the growing understanding of the power of social connectedness as building shared social identity when living with tinnitus.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Tinnitus is a prevalent condition with approximately 10–15% of the population experiencing a spontaneous sound without obvious source.

Tinnitus is an invisible health and chronic condition. People with tinnitus experience high levels of distress, anxiety, and depression.

Group support is beneficial to people with many health problems.

What does this study add?

This study describes the mechanisms by which tinnitus support groups can support coping in tinnitus.

This is the first study to comprehensively explore the views of those who attend tinnitus groups.

The study identifies the key features of support groups that facilitate social connectedness among group members.

The most valued features of groups are the knowledge and information provided, the sense of belonging communicated to group members, and the creation and maintenance of a sense of hope towards the tinnitus.

This study contributes new insights to both the tinnitus field and adds to the literature on support groups in health.
The role of local immigration partnerships in Syrian refugee resettlement in Waterloo Region, Ontario
Authors: Cullen Blair T. , Walton‐Roberts Margaret
Published: August 2019

As of January 29, 2017 Canada had received 40,081 Syrian refugees. The scale and scope of this resettlement is historic, with the only comparable event being the arrival of 60,000 Indo‐Chinese refugees in the late 1970s. Since that time, much has changed in local resettlement policy. This research focuses on one component of these changes—the role of Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs) in Syrian refugee resettlement—through a case study of an official refugee reception centre in the Waterloo Region of Ontario and a series of interviews with key informants from multiple sectors involved in resettlement. Results indicate Waterloo's LIP playing a sizable role, but not acting as the sole response body to refugee resettlement. Nevertheless, participants saw the LIP as a crucial part of Waterloo's resettlement efforts. Despite being a product of a tri‐level intergovernmental agreement, the LIP played a central role in shaping a local strategy by using local solutions. LIPs represent an example of place‐based policy that worked well during the Syrian Refugee Resettlement Initiative, but LIPs’ success may set a challenging precedent for future mass refugee resettlement events.
Sleep disturbance in patients with mild‐moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Lee Sang Hee , Kim Ki Uk , Lee Haejung , Park Hye‐Kyung , Kim Yun Seong , Lee Min Ki
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Although sleep problems have an important impact on daily life and health outcome measures in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), patterns of sleep disturbance in patients with mild‐moderate COPD remain unknown.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate patterns of sleep disturbance and factors associated with sleep impairment in patients with mild‐moderate COPD.

Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional study enrolled 148 male patients with COPD. At enrolment, all patients completed a disease‐specific sleep measure, the COPD and Asthma Sleep Impact Scale (CASIS) to assess sleep impairment. Health‐related quality of life (HRQL) was measured using the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and the 36‐item Short‐Form health survey (SF‐36). Anxiety and depression status were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Self‐efficacy was measured by the COPD Self‐Efficacy Scale (CSES).

Results

The mean age of the subjects was 67 years [standard deviation (SD) = 8.11]. The proportion of patients who indicated that they had a bad night's sleep was 33.1%. Univariated analysis showed that CASIS score was significantly correlated with the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale, SGRQ, SF‐36 Physical Component Summary, SF‐36 Mental Component Summary, HADS‐anxiety, HADS‐depression and CSES scores (all P < 0.05). In a multivariate analysis, SGRQ and CSES were independently associated with CASIS score.

Conclusion

Poorer HRQL and lower self‐efficacy are significantly associated with sleep disturbance and perhaps may be improved by better sleep quality. Future research is required to enhance sleep quality in patients with mild‐moderate COPD.
Tooth and consequences: Heterodonty and dental replacement in piranhas and pacus (Serrasalmidae)
Authors: Kolmann Matthew A. , Cohen Karly E. , Bemis Katherine E. , Summers Adam P. , Irish Frances J. , Hernandez L. Patricia
Published: August 2019

Tooth replacement in piranhas is unusual: all teeth on one side of the head are lost as a unit, then replaced simultaneously. We used histology and microCT to examine tooth‐replacement modes across carnivorous piranhas and their herbivorous pacu cousins (Serrasalmidae) and then mapped replacement patterns onto a molecular phylogeny. Pacu teeth develop and are replaced in a manner like piranhas. For serrasalmids, unilateral tooth replacement is not an “all or nothing” phenomenon; we demonstrate that both sides of the jaws have developing tooth rows within them, albeit with one side more mineralized than the other. All serrasalmids (except one) share unilateral tooth replacement, so this is not an adaptation for carnivory. All serrasalmids have interlocking teeth; piranhas interdigitate lateral tooth cusps with adjacent teeth, forming a singular saw‐like blade, whereas lateral cusps in pacus clasp together. For serrasalmids to have an interlocking dentition, their teeth need to develop and erupt at the same time. We propose that interlocking mechanisms prevent tooth loss and ensure continued functionality of the feeding apparatus. Serrasalmid dentitions are ubiquitously heterodont, having incisiform and molariform dentitions reminiscent of mammals. Finally, we propose that simultaneous tooth replacement be considered as a synapomorphy for the family.
Plasticity‐led evolution: A survey of developmental mechanisms and empirical tests
Authors: Levis Nicholas A. , Pfennig David W.
Published: August 2019

Recent years have witnessed increased interest in evaluating whether phenotypic plasticity can precede, facilitate, and possibly even bias adaptive evolution. Despite accumulating evidence for “plasticity‐led evolution” (i.e., “PLE”), critical gaps remain, such as: how different developmental mechanisms influence PLE; whether some types of traits and taxa are especially prone to experience PLE; and what studies are needed to drive the field forward. Here, we begin to address these shortcomings by first speculating about how various features of development—modularity, flexible regulation, and exploratory mechanisms—might impact and/or bias whether and how PLE unfolds. We then review and categorize the traits and taxa used to investigate PLE. We do so both to identify systems that may be well‐suited for studying developmental mechanisms in a PLE context and to highlight any mismatches between PLE theory and existing empirical tests of this theory. We conclude by providing additional suggestions for future research. Our overarching goal is to stimulate additional work on PLE and thereby evaluate plasticity's role in evolution.
Animal learning as a source of developmental bias
Authors: Laland Kevin N. , Toyokawa Wataru , Oudman Thomas
Published: August 2019

As a form of adaptive plasticity that allows organisms to shift their phenotype toward the optimum, learning is inherently a source of developmental bias. Learning may be of particular significance to the evolutionary biology community because it allows animals to generate adaptively biased novel behavior tuned to the environment and, through social learning, to propagate behavioral traits to other individuals, also in an adaptively biased manner. We describe several types of developmental bias manifest in learning, including anadaptive bias, historical bias, origination bias, andtransmission bias, stressing that these can influence evolutionary dynamics through generating nonrandom phenotypic variation and/or nonrandom environmental states. Theoretical models and empirical data have established that learning can impose direction on adaptive evolution, affect evolutionary rates (both speeding up and slowing down responses to selection under different conditions) and outcomes, influence the probability of populations reaching global optimum, and affect evolvability. Learning is characterized by highly specific, path‐dependent interactions with the (social and physical) environment, often resulting in new phenotypic outcomes. Consequently, learning regularly introduces novelty into phenotype space. These considerations imply that learning may commonly generate plasticity first evolution.
Autoimmune thrombocytopenia: Current treatment options in adults with a focus on novel drugs
Authors: Witkowski Michał , Witkowska Magdalena , Robak Tadeusz
Published: August 2019

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease characterized by platelet destruction and reduced platelet production resulting in decreased platelet level and an increased risk of bleeding. Based on the immunologic mechanism of ITP, front‐line standard therapy consists of corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG). If patients do not respond to the first‐line treatment, or if continuous therapy is required, the disorder is called refractory ITP, and second‐line therapy is indicated. This treatment may consist of rituximab, thrombopoietin receptor agonists, splenectomy, or cytotoxic drugs. Despite significant advances, many patients do not respond to any the treatments listed below, and new treatment options need to be developed for this relapsed and refractory group. Recent clinical studies have indicated promising outcomes for novel drugs, either as single agents or in combination with traditional drugs. This review discusses the latest and the most promising novel drugs for ITP in adults.
Evidence of rapid adaptive trait change to local salinity in the sperm of an invasive fish
Authors: Green Leon , Havenhand Jonathan N. , Kvarnemo Charlotta
Published: August 2019

Invasive species may quickly colonize novel environments, which could be attributed to both phenotypic plasticity and an ability to locally adapt. Reproductive traits are expected to be under strong selection when the new environment limits reproductive success of the invading species. This may be especially important for external fertilizers, which release sperm and eggs into the new environment. Despite adult tolerance to high salinity, the invasive fish Neogobius melanostomus (round goby) is absent from fully marine regions of the Baltic Sea, raising the possibility that its distribution is limited by tolerance during earlier life stages. Here, we investigate the hypothesis that the spread of N. melanostomus is limited by sperm function in novel salinities. We sampled sperm from two invasion fronts with higher and lower salinities in the Baltic Sea and tested them across a range of salinity levels. We found that sperm velocity and percentage of motile sperm declined in salinity levels higher and lower than those currently experienced by the Baltic Sea populations, with different performance curves for the two fronts. Sperm velocity also peaked closer to the home salinity conditions in each respective invasion front, with older localities showing an increased fit to local conditions. By calculating how the sperm velocity has changed over generations, we show this phenotypic shift to be in the range of other fish species under strong selection, indicating ongoing local adaptation or epigenetic acclimation to their novel environment. These results show that while immigrant reproductive dysfunction appears to at least partly limit the distribution of invasive N. melanostomus in the Baltic Sea, local adaptation to novel environments could enable future spread beyond their current boundaries.
Integrating patterns of thermal tolerance and phenotypic plasticity with population genetics to improve understanding of vulnerability to warming in a widespread copepod
Authors: Sasaki Matthew C. , Dam Hans G.
Published: August 2019

Differences in population vulnerability to warming are defined by spatial patterns in thermal adaptation. These patterns may be driven by natural selection over spatial environmental gradients, but can also be shaped by gene flow, especially in marine taxa with high dispersal potential. Understanding and predicting organismal responses to warming requires disentangling the opposing effects of selection and gene flow. We begin by documenting genetic divergence of thermal tolerance and developmental phenotypic plasticity. Ten populations of the widespread copepodAcartia tonsawere collected from sites across a large thermal gradient, ranging from the Florida Keys to Northern New Brunswick, Canada (spanning over 20° latitude). Thermal performance curves (TPCs) from common garden experiments revealed local adaptation at the sampling range extremes, with thermal tolerance increasing at low latitudes and decreasing at high latitudes. The opposite pattern was observed in phenotypic plasticity, which was strongest at high latitudes. No relationship was observed between phenotypic plasticity and environmental variables. Instead, the results are consistent with the hypothesis of a trade‐off between thermal tolerance and the strength of phenotypic plasticity. Over a large portion of the sampled range, however, we observed a remarkable lack of differentiation of TPCs. To examine whether this lack of divergence is the result of selection for a generalist performance curve or constraint by gene flow, we analyzed cytochrome oxidase I mtDNA sequences, which revealed four distinct genetic clades, abundant genetic diversity, and widely distributed haplotypes. Strong divergence in thermal performance within genetic clades, however, suggests that the pace of thermal adaptation can be relatively rapid. The combined insight from the laboratory physiological experiments and genetic data indicate that gene flow constrains differentiation of TPCs. This balance between gene flow and selection has implications for patterns of vulnerability to warming. Taking both genetic differentiation and phenotypic plasticity into account, our results suggest that local adaptation does not increase vulnerability to warming, and that low‐latitude populations in general may be more vulnerable to predicted temperature change over the next century.
Grazing management for more resilient mixed livestock farming systems on native grasslands of southern South America
Authors: Modernel Pablo , Picasso Valentin , Do Carmo Martin , Rossing Walter A. H. , Corbeels Marc , Soca Pablo , Dogliotti Santiago , Tittonell Pablo
Published: August 2019

Droughts in southern South America affect grazing systems in many ways. They reduce biomass productivity; decrease livestock feed intake, weight and reproductive performance; increase farmers’ costs; and reduce farm income. It was hypothesized that simple grazing management variables affect the resilience of grazing systems to droughts at the paddock and farm scales. The effects of grazing management on herbage and animal production were assessed at paddock level, and how technological and structural variables relate to the production and economic performances at farm level. Results of a grazing experiment controlling herbage allowance at paddock level showed that resistance of herbage accumulation and animal live weight to drought was significantly higher for paddocks with higher pre‐drought herbage allowance than for those managed to low herbage allowance treatments. A strong positive linear relationship was found between pre‐drought herbage height and resistance of herbage accumulation rate (p < .01). In a longitudinal study of nine farms in Uruguay, resistance of cow pregnancy rate to drought was positively correlated with cow pregnancy rate (r = .72, p = .02) and farm net income (r = .78, p = .02), and negatively correlated with sheep‐to‐cattle ratio (r = −.80, p = .01). These correlations suggest that farms with higher incomes and low proportions of sheep in the herd withstand drought better (in terms of pregnancy rate). Four common regional production strategies were identified that react differently when farmers face drought, and these results can aid farmers in those regions to design more resilient mixed livestock farming systems and can inform policymakers about effective strategies for mitigating drought impacts in the region.
Pan‐Trk immunohistochemistry is a sensitive and specific ancillary tool for diagnosing secretory carcinoma of the salivary gland and detecting ETV6–NTRK3 fusion
Authors: Xu Bin , Haroon Al Rasheed Mohamed R , Antonescu Cristina R , Alex Deepu , Frosina Denise , Ghossein Ronald , Jungbluth Achim A , Katabi Nora
Published: August 2019

Aims

Secretory carcinoma (SC) of the salivary gland typically harbours ETV6–NTRK3 fusion, which can be utilised clinically to assist with diagnosis. Pan‐Trk inhibitor therapy has demonstrated drastic responses in patients with NTRK‐translocated tumours, including SC. Pan‐Trk immunohistochemistry (IHC) is emerging as a sensitive and specific tool for detecting NTRK1, NTRK2 and NTRK3 fusions in various cancers. We aimed to establish the specificity and sensitivity of pan‐Trk IHC in diagnosing SC and detecting ETV6–NTRK3 fusion. A literature review on the utility of pan‐Trk IHC was conducted.

Methods and results

Pan‐Trk IHC was performed on 83 salivary gland neoplasms (29 SCs and 54 non‐SCs). ETV6–NTRK3 fusion status was established in 25 cases. With any staining (nuclear or cytoplasmic) as a positive threshold, the sensitivity and specificity of pan‐Trk IHC were 90% and 70% in diagnosing SC, and 100% and 0% in detecting NTRK3 fusion. When only pan‐Trk nuclear staining was considered as positive, the sensitivity and specificity were 69% and 100% in diagnosing SC, and 92% and 100% in detecting NTRK3 fusion.

Conclusions

Nuclear pan‐Trk IHC is highly specific for SC diagnosis, with a specificity approaching 100%, making it a useful and precise diagnostic tool for differentiating SC from its histological mimics. On the other hand, any pan‐Trk staining (nuclear or cytoplasmic) is highly sensitive for SC, and can serve as an attractive, cheap, fast and accessible screening tool for selecting patients to undergo confirmative molecular testing for clinical trials using TRK inhibitors.
Declining abundance of beetles, moths and caddisflies in the Netherlands
Authors: Hallmann Caspar A. , Zeegers Theo , van Klink Roel , Vermeulen Rikjan , van Wielink Paul , Spijkers Henk , van Deijk Jurriën , van Steenis Wouter , Jongejans Eelke
Published: August 2019

Recently, reports of insect declines prompted concerns with respect to the state of insects at a global level. Here, we present the results of longer‐term insect monitoring from two locations in the Netherlands: nature development area De Kaaistoep and nature reserves near Wijster.

Based on data from insects attracted to light in De Kaaistoep, macro‐moths (macro‐Lepidoptera), beetles (Coleoptera), and caddisflies (Trichoptera) have declined in the mean number of individuals counted per evening over the period of 1997–2017, with annual rates of decline of 3.8, 5.0 and 9.2%, respectively. Other orders appeared stable [true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera and Auchenorrhyncha) and mayflies (Ephemeroptera)] or had uncertainty in their trend estimate [lacewings (Neuroptera)].

Based on 48 pitfall traps near Wijster, ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) showed a mean annual decline of 4.3% in total numbers over the period of 1985–2016. Nonetheless, declines appeared stronger after 1995.

For macro‐moths, the mean of the trends of individual species was comparable to the annual trend in total numbers. Trends of individual ground beetle species, however, suggest that abundant species performed worse than rare ones.

When translated into biomass estimates, our calculations suggest a reduction in total biomass of approximately 61% for macro‐moths as a group and at least 42% for ground beetles, by extrapolation over a period of 27 years. Heavier ground beetles and macro‐moths did not decline more strongly than lighter species, suggesting that heavy species did not contribute disproportionately to biomass decline.

Our results broadly echo recent reported trends in insect biomass in Germany and elsewhere.
The effects of platelet‐rich‐plasma gel application to the colonic anastomosis in hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: An experimental rat model
Authors: Ocak Sonmez , Buk Omer F. , Genc Bugra , Avcı Bahattin , Uzuner Hatice O. , Gundogdu Salih B.
Published: August 2019

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has cytotoxic effects on tumour cells but also negative impacts on anastomotic healing. Platelet‐rich‐plasma (PRP) is used for wound care but data about effects on gastrointestinal anastomosis are limited. In this experimental study, we aimed to investigate the effects of PRP application on colon anastomosis in rats those received HIPEC with cisplatin. Five rats were sacrificed to obtain PRP gel. Thirty rats were divided into three groups; Group 1: control group, Group 2: colon anastomosis and HIPEC with cisplatin, and Group 3: colon anastomosis enhanced by PRP and HIPEC with cisplatin. The rats were re‐operated on postoperative day seven and anastomotic bursting pressure (ABP) was recorded. Also, tissue samples were taken for hydroxyproline assessment and histopathological examination. There were significant differences in ABP between Groups 2 and 3, and also those groups had lower ABP compared with the control group. Group 3 had significantly higher hydroxyproline levels and had better histopathological findings than group 2. According to our findings, we suggest that PRP application improves the anastomotic healing by increasing anastomotic bursting pressure, hydroxyproline levels, and decreasing inflammatory response. Further clinical studies are needed to prove our hypothesis.
Fabrication of porous thick films using room‐temperature aerosol deposition
Authors: Khansur Neamul H. , Eckstein Udo , Sadl Matej , Ursic Hana , Webber Kyle G.
Published: August 2019

A novel technique for the rapid room‐temperature deposition of porous ceramic, glass, or metal thick films using the aerosol deposition (AD) method is presented. The process is based on the co‐deposition of the desired film material and a second water‐soluble constituent, resulting in a ceramic‐ceramic composite. Following the subsequent removal of water‐soluble end member, a network of pores is retained. To demonstrate the process, porous BaTiO3 thick films were fabricated through co‐deposition with NaCl. Microstructural images show the clear development of a porous structure, which was found to enhance the dielectric properties over dense thick films, possibly related to the lower extent of internal residual stress. This simple but highly effective porous structure fabrication can be applied to any film and substrate material stable in water and is promising for the application of AD‐processed films in gas sensors, solid oxide fuel cells, and humidity sensors.
Extreme dipping: More complex than it looks
Authors: Cuspidi Cesare , Tadic Marijana , Grassi Guido
Published: August 2019

Information on clinical and prognostic implications of the extreme dipping (ED) pattern is scanty and findings provided by studies are controversial. Increasing evidence suggests than mean night‐time blood pressure (BP), a powerful predictor of cardiovascular outcomes, in ED can be markedly different between patients and distributed over a wide range of values ranging from hypotension to hypertension. On the whole, these findings emphasize the need to know that the ED pattern is a heterogeneous phenotype that deserve to be evaluated more in detail in future studies.
Prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors among long‐term AIDS survivors: A report from the field
Authors: Pierre Samuel , Seo Grace , Rivera Vanessa R. , Walsh Kathleen F. , Victor Jean Joscar , Charles Benedict , Julmiste Gaetane , Dumont Emelyne , Apollon Alexandra , Cadet Molene , Saint‐Vil Alix , Marcelin Adias , Severe Patrice , Lee Myung Hee , Kingery Justin , Koenig Serena , Fitzgerald Daniel , Pape Jean , McNairy Margaret L.
Published: August 2019

HIV infection is associated with increased risk and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet little is known about the prevalence of CVD risk factors among long‐term AIDS survivors in resource‐limited settings. Using routinely collected data, we conducted a retrospective study to describe the prevalence of CVD risk factors among a cohort of HIV‐infected patients followed for over 10 years in Port‐au Prince, Haiti. This cohort includes 910 adults who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) between 2003 and 2004 and remained in care between 2014 and 2016 when routine screening for CVD risk factors was implemented at a large clinic in Haiti. A total of 397 remained in care ≥10 years and received screening. At ART initiation, 59% were female, median age was 38 years (IQR 33‐44), and median CD4 count was 117 cells/mm3 (IQR 34‐201). Median follow‐up time from ART initiation was 12.1 years (IQR 11.7‐12.7). At screening, median CD4 count was 574 cells/mm3 (IQR 378‐771), and 84% (282 of 336 screened) had HIV‐1 RNA < 1000 copies/mL. Seventy‐four percent of patients had at least 1 risk factor including 58% (224/385) with hypertension, 8% (24/297) diabetes, 43% (119/275) hypercholesterolemia, 8% (20/248) active smoking, and 10% (25/245) obesity. Factors associated with hypertension were age (adjusted OR 1.06, P < .001) and weight at screening (adjusted OR 1.02, P = .019). Long‐term AIDS survivors have a high prevalence of CVD risk factors, primarily hypertension. Integration of cardiovascular screening and management into routine HIV care is needed to maximize health outcomes among aging HIV patients in resource‐limited settings.
The prevalence and predictors of resistant hypertension in high‐risk overweight and obese patients: A cross‐sectional study based on the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines
Authors: Haddadin Faris , Sud Karan , Munoz Estrella Alba , Moctezuma Sananda , Wu Lingling , Berookhim Joshua , Lucas Claire Huang , Patel Dipal , Argulian Edgar
Published: August 2019

Obesity is significantly associated with uncontrolled blood pressure and resistant hypertension (RH). There are limited studies on the prevalence and determinants of RH in patients with higher body mass index (BMI) values. Since the hypertension guidelines changed in 2017, the prevalence of RH has become unknown and now is subject to be estimated by further studies. We conducted a cross‐sectional study in an urban Federally Qualified Health Center in New York City aiming to estimate the prevalence of RH in high‐risk overweight and obese patients based on the new hypertension definition, BP threshold ≥130/80 mm Hg, and also to describe the associated comorbid conditions in these patients. We identified 761 eligible high‐risk overweight and obese subjects with hypertension between October 2017 and October 2018. Apparent treatment‐RH was found in 13.6% among the entire study population. This represented 15.4% of those treated with BP‐lowering agents. True RH confirmed with out‐of‐office elevated BP was found in 6.7% of the study population and 7.4% among patients treated with BP‐lowering agents. Prevalence was higher with higher BMI values. Those with true RH were more likely to be black, to have diabetes mellitus requiring insulin, chronic kidney disease stage 3 or above and diastolic heart failure. In conclusion, obesity is significantly associated with RH and other significant metabolic comorbid conditions.
Influence of circadian blood pressure patterns and cardiopulmonary functional capacity in hypertensive patients
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare , Suzic‐Lazic Jelena , Andric Anita , Sala Carla , Santoro Ciro , Iracek Olinka , Celic Vera
Published: August 2019

We sought to assess functional capacity in recently diagnosed untreated hypertensive patients with different 24‐hour blood pressure (BP) patterns (dipping, non‐dipping, extreme dipping, and reverse dipping). This cross‐sectional study involved 164 untreated hypertensive patients who underwent 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Our findings showed that 24‐hour and daytime BP values did not differ between four groups. Nighttime BP significantly and gradually increased from extreme dippers to reverse dippers. There was no significant difference in BPs at baseline and at the peak of exercise among four observed groups. Peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2) was significantly lower in reverse dippers than in dippers and extreme dippers. Heart rate recovery was significantly lower among reverse dippers than in dippers and extreme dippers. Ventilation/carbon dioxide slope (VE/VCO2) was significantly higher in reverse dippers and non‐dippers in comparison with dippers and extreme dippers. Non‐dipping BP pattern (non‐dippers and reverse dippers together) was independently and negatively associated lower heart rate recovery in the first minute and peak VO2. Reverse dipping BP pattern was independently associated not only with heart rate recovery in the first minute and peak VO2, but also with VE/VCO2. In conclusion, untreated hypertensive patients with reverse dipping BP patterns showed significantly worse functional capacity than those with dipping and extreme dipping BP patterns. Circadian BP rhythm is related with functional capacity and should be taken into account in the risk assessment of hypertensive patients.
Regulatory network of two circRNAs and an miRNA with their targeted genes under astilbin treatment in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Lu Guangping , Zhang Jinjin , Liu Xiangyong , Liu Wenbo , Cao Guohong , Lv Changjun , Zhang Xiaoli , Xu Pan , Li Minge , Song Xiaodong
Published: August 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are becoming new therapeutic drug targets. However, their profiles under astilbin treatment have not been reported yet. In this study, we analysed the global reprogramming of circRNA transcriptome and a regulatory network of circRNAs with their targeted genes under astilbin treatment in pulmonary fibrosis. A total of 145 circRNAs were differentially expressed in the astilbin‐treated group compared with the bleomycin‐treated group using RNA sequencing. In the bleomycin‐ and astilbin‐treated groups, 29 coexpressed circRNAs were found. The maximum number of circRNAs was distributed on chromosome two, and their length varieties were mainly within 1000 bp. Four differentially expressed circRNAs (circRNA‐662, 949, 394 and 986) were tested to validate the RNA sequencing data, and their targeted microRNAs and genes were analysed by qRT‐PCR, Western blot, Pearson correlation coefficient, a dual‐luciferase reporter system and anti‐AGO2 RNA immunoprecipitation. The results showed that circRNA‐662 and 949 can act as “miR‐29b sponges” targeting Gli2 and STAT3 to exert their functions. Our work suggests that the transcriptome complexity at the circRNA level under astilbin treatment. These circRNAs may be potential molecular targets for drug action.
Identification of predictive genetic signatures of Cytarabine responsiveness using a 3D acute myeloid leukaemia model
Authors: Xu Haiyan , Muise Eric S. , Javaid Sarah , Chen Lan , Cristescu Razvan , Mansueto My Sam , Follmer Nicole , Cho Jennifer , Kerr Kimberley , Altura Rachel , Machacek Michelle , Nicholson Benjamin , Addona George , Kariv Ilona , Chen Hongmin
Published: August 2019

This study reports the establishment of a bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMC) 3D culture model and the application of this model to define sensitivity and resistance biomarkers of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patient bone marrow samples in response to Cytarabine (Ara‐C) treatment. By mimicking physiological bone marrow microenvironment, the growth conditions were optimized by using frozen BMMCs derived from healthy donors. Healthy BMMCs are capable of differentiating into major hematopoietic lineages and various types of stromal cells in this platform. Cryopreserved BMMC samples from 49 AML patients were characterized for ex vivo growth and sensitivity to Ara‐C. RNA sequencing was performed for 3D and 2D cultures to determine differential gene expression patterns. Specific genetic mutations and/or gene expression signatures associated with the ability of the ex vivo expansion and response to Ara‐C were elucidated by whole‐exome and RNA sequencing. Data analysis identified unique gene expression signatures and novel genetic mutations associated with sensitivity to Ara‐C treatment of proliferating AML specimens and can be used as predictive therapeutic biomarkers to determine the optimal treatment regimens. Furthermore, these data demonstrate the translational value of this ex vivo platform which should be widely applicable to evaluate other therapies in AML.
Synthesis and larvicidal activity of indole derivatives against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Sousa Janaina R. , Silva Fábio A. , Targanski Sabrina K. , Fazolo Bruno R. , Souza Jéssica M. , Campos Mateus G. , Vieira Lucas C. C. , de Oliveira Mendes Tiago A. , Soares Marcos A.
Published: August 2019

In light of the challenges to control Aedes aegypti and the critical role that it plays as arbovirus vector, it is imperative to adopt strategies that provide fast, efficient and environmentally safe control of the insect population. In the present study, we synthesized six indole derivatives (C1‐C6) and examined their larvicidal activity and persistence against Ae. aegypti larvae, as well as their toxicity towards Raw 264.7 macrophages, Vero cells, Chlorella vulgaris BR017, Scenedesmus obliquus BR003, Caenorhabditis elegans N2 and Galleria mellonella. Among the bioactive compounds (C1, C2, C4 and C5), C2 exerted the strongest larvicidal activity against Ae. aegypti, with LC50 = 1.5 μg/ml (5.88 µM) and LC90 = 2.4 μg/ml (9.50 µM), indicating that the presence of chlorine or bromine groups in the aromatic ring improved the larvicidal activity of the indole derivatives. C1, C2, C4 and C5 did not reduce viability of RAW 264.7 macrophages, Vero cells, C. elegans N2 and G. mellonella. Compounds C1, C2 and C5 did not affect the growth of C. vulgaris BR017 and S. obliquus BR003. Analysis of larvicidal persistence under laboratory conditions revealed that the effect of compounds C1, C2, C4 and C5 lasted for 30 days and caused 100% of larvae mortality within few hours. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that the indole derivatives C1, C2, C4 and C5 effectively control Ae. aegypti larvae population, without clear signs of toxicity to mammalian cells, algae, C. elegans and G. mellonella.
Using physical barriers to prevent carrot fly (Psila rosae (Fabricius)) damage in domestic production
Authors: Platoni Anna M. , Bird Stephanie , Waghorn Ian , Perry Joe , Collier Rosemary , Clover Gerard
Published: August 2019

A field experiment was used to assess the effectiveness of different barriers in protecting garden‐scale carrot production from carrot fly (Psila rosae (Fabricius)) damage. Some of the vertical barriers tested were found to provide a useful method of protecting early season carrots from carrot fly in terms of the percentage of carrots free from damage but, under cumulative pest pressure of several generations of carrot fly, such barriers were found to provide insufficient protection. Gardeners should therefore completely cover their carrot crop to attain an acceptable level of control, and this was found to be especially important for carrots harvested later in the season. There were positive effects of some barrier types on yield which may be due, at least in part, to the protection given by the barriers to carrot seedlings.
Selection response forStreptococcus agalactiaeresistance in Nile tilapiaOreochromis niloticus
Authors: Suebsong Wasana , Poompuang Supawadee , Srisapoome Prapansak , Koonawootrittriron Skorn , Luengnaruemitchai Amorn , Johansen Harry , Rye Morten
Published: August 2019

The potential of selection to improve resistance to streptococcosis was evaluated in a commercial population of Nile tilapia in Thailand. The base generation (G0) consisted of offspring from 98 sires and 149 dams using a partly nested design. At 60 days post‐hatch, 30 fish from each family were injected intraperitoneally with aStreptococcosis agalactiaesolution (1 × 109 CFU/ml) and evaluated for 14 days. Disease resistance was recorded as the number of days from challenge until death (DD) and as a binary (BIN) trait (dead/alive) on day 14. Three models were used for genetic analyses: Cox frailty model for DD; animal model for DD; and animal model for BIN. Age at challenge was fitted as a covariate and contemporary group as fixed or random effect, depending on the model. Fish from the 18 most resistant families were selected to produce the first generation (G1). Heritability estimates for G0 were 0.22, 0.14 ± 0.02 and 0.11 ± 0.02 for the Cox, linear DD and linear BIN models, respectively. Selection response indicated that the risk of death decreased to 54%, survival time increased to 3.4 days and survival rate increased to 21%. These results suggest that genetic improvement is possible for this population.
A hybrid material flow analysis for quantifying multilevel anthropogenic resources
Authors: Cheng Kuang‐Ly , Hsu Shu‐Chien , Hung Cathy C. W. , Chen Pi‐Cheng , Ma Hwong‐wen
Published: August 2019

This study develops a hybrid material flow analysis (HMFA) method to evaluate the annual additional quantity of material stock, known as net additions to stock (NAS) at both micro‐ and macro‐levels through analyzing the fixed capital formation (FCF) and total supply in input‐output tables (IOTs). HMFA turns NAS from a balance indicator in the top‐down approach to an indicator with meaningful value in terms of urban ore evaluation. To verify the validity of HMFA, this study compares the developed HMFA with a top‐down approach and a bottom‐up approach through assessing the NAS of Taiwan and Germany. The quantity of NAS estimated by HMFA is considered as a more conservative upper bound than that by the top‐down approach, while underestimation often occurs with a bottom‐up approach. HMFA has been proven as an efficient and rational evaluation method which overcomes a key limitation in assessing micro‐level material stock by a top‐down approach, and solves the data demanding problem of the bottom‐up approach for quantifying material stock.