bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term biodiversity trajectories for pest‐managed ecological restorations: eradication vs. suppression
Authors: Binny Rachelle N. , Innes John , Fitzgerald Neil , Pech Roger , James Alex , Price Robbie , Gillies Craig , Byrom Andrea E.
Published: October 2020

Invasions by alien pest species contribute heavily to global biodiversity decline, with invasive mammals having some of the greatest impacts on endemic biota. Pest management within ecological restorations is therefore critical for conserving threatened biota. Coordinating restoration efforts at global scale requires evidence of the relative efficacy of different pest‐managed restoration approaches (“regimes”) for enhancing biodiversity. Our national meta‐analysis of 447 biodiversity responses across 16 ecological restorations quantifies significant benefits for biodiversity over two decades and multiple trophic levels, and across a spectrum of invasive mammal suppression‐to‐eradication regimes. Deeply endemic species had the strongest responses to pest control compared with recent native or introduced biota. Using this information, we predict levels of pest suppression required to confer biodiversity benefits, to guide future management strategies. Our findings provide new evidence that invasive pest control is an effective approach to ecological restoration, to aid decision‐makers in setting objectives and making targeted investments.
Fibroproliferative disorders and diabetes: Understanding the pathophysiologic relationship between Peyronie’s disease, Dupuytren disease and diabetes
Authors: Gelbard Martin K. , Rosenbloom Joel
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Fibrosis is characterized by dysregulation and accumulation of extracellular matrix. Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease are fibroproliferative disorders of the tunica albuginea of the penis and fascia of the hand, respectively. Chronic hyperglycaemia due to diabetes mellitus can also lead to tissue injury and fibrosis. A meta‐analysis has shown a relationship between Dupuytren disease and diabetes (overall odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.7‐3.5). This review explores commonalities in the pathogenesis of Peyronie's disease, Dupuytren disease and diabetes.

Methods

A search of the PubMed database was conducted using the search terms “diabetes” AND “Peyronie's disease”; and “diabetes” AND “Dupuytren.”

Results

Genome‐wide association and gene expression studies conducted with tissue from people with Peyronie's disease or Dupuytren disease identified signalling pathways associated with wingless‐type mammary‐tumour virus integration site signalling, extracellular matrix modulation and inflammation. Biochemical studies confirmed the importance of these pathways in the pathogenesis of fibrosis with Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease. Dysregulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity associated with extracellular matrix breakdown was implicated in fibroproliferative complications of diabetes and in the aetiology of Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease. A notable percentage of people with diabetes have comorbid Peyronie's disease and/or Dupuytren disease.

Conclusions

Studies have not been performed to identify fibroproliferative pathways that all 3 conditions might have in common, but data suggest that common pathways are involved in the fibroproliferative processes of Peyronie's disease, Dupuytren disease, and diabetes.
High‐resolution melting analysis for detection of fusion allele of FUT2
Authors: Soejima Mikiko , Koda Yoshiro
Published: October 2020

The secretor status of ABH antigens, determined by FUT2 polymorphisms, affects susceptibility to various infectious diseases. In addition to many SNPs responsible for the nonsecretor phenotype, five nonfunctional alleles (se) resulting from copy number variations have been reported. One of the five alleles generated by an unequal crossover between FUT2 and a pseudogene (SEC1), is sefus. This allele may be misidentified as a functional allele if only common inactivating SNPs are genotyped because it contains the 3ʹ region of the functional FUT2. Therefore, accurate detection of sefus is desirable. For this purpose, a high‐resolution melting (HRM) analysis is developed for detection of sefus in which a 284bp fragment of SEC1 and sefus but not FUT2, are amplified. This HRM analysis detected sefus reliably. Thus, an initial screening or prescreening for sefus using HRM analysis seems to be useful for association studies of FUT2.
Determination of complex type free, non‐conjugated oligosaccharide glucose unit values in tomato xylem sap for early detection of nutrient deficiency
Authors: Mátyás Bence , Singer Júlia , Szarka Máté , Lowy Daniel A. , Döncző Boglárka , Makleit Péter , Failoc‐Rojas Virgilio E. , Ramirez Andrés , Martínez Pedro , Sándor Zsolt , Kincses Ida , Guttman András
Published: October 2020

Although knowledge on glycan biosynthesis and processing is continuously maturing, there are still a limited number of studies that examine biological functions of N‐glycan structures in plants, which remain virtually unknown. Here, the statistical correlation between nutrient (nitrogen) deficiency symptoms of crops and changes in 8‐aminopyrene‐1,3,6‐trisulfonic acid (APTS)‐labeled complex type free oligosaccharides is reported. While deficiency symptoms are predicted by multispectral images and Kjeldahl digestion, APTS‐labeled complex type free oligosaccharides are identified by their glucose unit (GU) values in tomato xylem sap, using capillary electrophoresis with laser induced fluorescence detection (CE‐LIF). Given the limited number of structures obtained from plants, archived in the literature, in the future, it is intended to create an open access database of promising indicators, namely, glycan structures that are presumably responsible for the nutrient deficiency caused stress in plants (http://glycoplants.org).
Modeling viscous damping in nonlinear response history analysis of steel moment‐frame buildings: Design‐plus ground motions
Authors: Qian Xin , Chopra Anil K. , McKenna Frank
Published: October 2020

Investigated in this paper is the question: Can seismic demands on steel moment‐frame buildings due to maximum considered earthquake (MCER) design‐level ground motions (GMs) be estimated satisfactorily using linear viscous damping models or is a nonlinear model, such as capped damping, necessary? This investigation employs an enhanced model with several complex features of a 20‐story steel moment‐frame building. Considered are two linear viscous damping models: Rayleigh damping and constant modal damping; and one nonlinear model where damping forces are not allowed to exceed a predefined bound. Presented are seismic demands on the building due to two sets of GMs: MCER design‐level GMs (2% probability of exceedance [PE] in 50 years) and rarer excitations (1% PE in 50 years). Based on these results, we conclude that linear damping models are adequate for estimating seismic demands on steel moment‐frame buildings—designed to satisfy current story drift and plastic rotation limits due to MCER design‐level GMs. Between the two linear damping models, constant modal damping is preferred; it is available in commercial computer codes for earthquake structural analysis.
Programmed death ligand‐1 induction restrains the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response against microglia
Authors: Chauhan Priyanka , Hu Shuxian , Prasad Sujata , Sheng Wen S. , Lokensgard James R.
Published: October 2020

Microglial cells are the main reservoir for HIV‐1 within the brain and potential exists for negative immune checkpoint blockade therapies to purge this viral reservoir. Here, we investigated cytolytic responses of CD8+ T lymphocytes against microglia loaded with peptide epitopes. Initially, flow cytometric analysis demonstrated efficient killing of HIV‐1 p24 AI9 or YI9 peptide‐loaded splenocytes in MHC‐matched recipients. Cytolytic killing of microglia was first demonstrated using ovalbumin (OVA) as a model antigen for in vitro cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assays. Peptide‐loaded primary microglia obtained from programmed death ligand (PD‐L) 1 knockout (KO) animals showed significantly more killing than cells from wild‐type (WT) animals when co‐cultured with activated CD8+ T‐cells isolated from rAd5‐OVA primed animals. Moreover, when peptide loaded‐microglial cells from WT animals were treated with neutralizing α‐PD‐L1 Ab, significantly more killing was observed compared to either untreated or IgG isotype‐treated cells. Most importantly, significantly increased in vivo killing of HIV‐1 p24 YI9 peptide‐loaded microglia from PD‐L1 KO animals, as well as AI9 peptide‐loaded BALB/c microglial cells treated with α‐PD‐L1, was observed within brains of rAd5‐p24 primed‐CNS boosted C57BL/6 or BALB/c mice, respectively. Finally, ex vivo responses of brain CD8+ T‐cells in response to AI9 stimulation showed significantly increased IFN‐γ and IL‐2 production when treated with α‐PD‐1 Abs. Greater proliferation of CD8+ T‐cells from the brain was also observed following blockade. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that PD‐L1 induction on microglia restrains CTL responses and indicate that immune checkpoint blockade targeting this pathway may be beneficial in clearing viral brain reservoirs.
Kicking the habit is hard: A hybrid choice model investigation into the role of addiction in smoking behavior
Authors: Buckell John , Hensher David A , Hess Stephane
Published: October 2020

Use of choice models is growing rapidly in tobacco research. These models are being used to answer key policy questions. However, certain aspects of smokers' choice behavior are not well understood. One such feature is addiction. Here, we address this issue by modeling data from a choice experiment on the US smokers. We model addiction using a latent variable. We use this latent variable to understand the relationship between choices and addiction, giving attention to nicotine levels. We find that more addicted smokers have stronger preferences for cigarettes and are unwilling to switch to e‐cigarettes. Addicted smokers value nicotine in tobacco products to a much greater extent than those that are less addicted. Lastly, we forecast short‐term responses to lowering nicotine levels in cigarettes. The results suggest that current nicotine‐focused policies could be effective at encouraging addicted smokers to less harmful products and lead to substantial public health gains.
Field investigation of the groundwater contribution to baseflow in an urban stream from a Quaternary aquifer with a leaky base
Authors: Moore Trisha L. , Nieber John L. , Gulliver John S. , Magner Joseph A.
Published: October 2020

Groundwater contributions to baseflow in Minnehaha Creek, a creek located in a highly developed watershed in the Minneapolis‐St. Paul metropolitan area, from the watershed's Quaternary aquifer were quantified as part of an effort to manage low flow conditions in the creek. Considerable uncertainty exists with any single method used to quantify groundwater contributions to baseflow; therefore, a “weight of evidence” approach in which methods spanning multiple spatial scales was utilized. Analyses conducted at the watershed‐scale (streamflow separation and stable isotope analyses) were corroborated with site‐scale measurements (piezometer, seepage meter, and streambed temperature profiles) over a multi‐year period to understand processes and conditions controlling connectivity between the stream, its shallow aquifer system and other flow sources. In the case of Minnehaha Creek, groundwater discharge was found to range from 6.2 to 23 mm year−1, which represented only 5 to 11% of annual streamflow during the study period. From the weight of evidence, it is conjectured that regional‐scale hydrogeological conditions control groundwater discharge in Minnehaha Creek. Implications of these results with regard to possible augmentation of baseflow by increasing groundwater recharge with infiltration of stormwater are discussed.
Incidence of human papillomavirus‐related anogenital precancer and cancer in women with diabetes: A nationwide registry‐based cohort study
Authors: Reinholdt Kristian , Thomsen Louise Thirstrup , Munk Christian , Dehlendorff Christian , Aalborg Gitte Lerche , Carstensen Bendix , Jørgensen Marit Eika , Kjaer Susanne K.
Published: October 2020

In this register‐based cohort study, we estimated the incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related anogenital precancer and cancer in women with diabetes compared with women without diabetes. We followed all women living in Denmark born 1916 to 2001 (n = 2 508 321) for individual‐level information on diabetes (Type 1 or 2 [T1D or T2D]), diagnoses of cervical, vaginal, vulvar and anal intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 or 3 (IN2/3) and cancer and other covariates from nationwide registries. We used Poisson regression to model the incidence rates of anogenital IN2/3 and cancer as a function of diabetes status, age, HPV vaccination, education, calendar year, and cervical cancer screening status. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were estimated for diabetes overall, and separately for T1D and T2D, compared with women without diabetes. Women with diabetes had higher rates of vulvar IN2/3 (IRR = 1.63; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41‐1.88), vulvar cancer (IRR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.36‐1.91) and vaginal cancer (IRR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.27‐1.91) than women without diabetes. Similar patterns were observed for anal IN2/3, anal cancer and cervical cancer, although not statistically significant. In contrast, women with diabetes had lower rates of cervical IN2/3 (IRR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.69‐0.79) than women without diabetes. Patterns were generally similar in women with T1D and T2D, although cancer rates were higher in women with T2D. In conclusion, the incidence of most anogenital precancers and cancers were increased in women with diabetes. However, women with diabetes had lower incidence of cervical precancer. Our findings could be explained by biological mechanisms and/or behavioral factors, such as smoking and less frequent cervical screening participation.
Minimally invasive esophageal sponge cytology sampling is feasible in a Tanzanian community setting
Authors: Middleton Daniel R. S. , Mmbaga Blandina T. , O'Donovan Maria , Abedi‐Ardekani Behnoush , Debiram‐Beecham Irene , Nyakunga‐Maro Gissela , Maro Venance , Bromwich Martin , Daudi Amini , Ngowi Timothy , Minde Rehema , Claver Jackson , Mremi Alex , Mwasamwaja Amos , Schüz Joachim , Fitzgerald Rebecca C. , McCormack Valerie
Published: October 2020

Esophageal sponge cytology is an endoscopy alternative well accepted by patients with extensive data for accuracy in the context of adenocarcinoma. Few studies have assessed its feasibility in asymptomatic community members, and fewer still in East Africa, where esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) rates are high. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a capsule‐based diagnosis of esophageal squamous dysplasia (ESD), an ESCC precursor, which may benefit epidemiological and early detection research. We collected Cytosponge collections in 102 asymptomatic adults from Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Uptake, acceptability and safety were assessed. Participants scored acceptability immediately following the procedure and 7 days later on a scale of 0 (least) to 10 (most acceptable). Slides from paraffin‐embedded cell clots were read by two pathologists for ESD and other pathologies. All participants (52 men, 50 women, aged 30‐77) swallowed the device at first attempt, 100 (98%) of which gave slides of adequate cellularity. Acceptability scores were 10 (53%), 9 (24%), 8 (21%), 7 (2%) and 6 (1%), with no differences by age, sex or time of asking. Cytological findings were esophageal inflammation (4%), atypical squamous cells of uncertain significance (1%), low‐grade dysplasia (1%), gastritis (22%) and suspected intestinal metaplasia (6%). Setting‐specific logistical and ethical considerations of study implementation are discussed. We demonstrate the safety, acceptability and feasibility of Cytosponge sampling in this setting, paving the way for innovative etiology and early‐detection research. Targeted sampling strategies and biomarker development will underpin the success of such initiatives. The study protocol is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04090554).
Quality diet indexes and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: Findings from the Singapore Chinese Health Study
Authors: Luu Hung N. , Neelakantan Nithya , Geng Ting‐ting , Wang Renwei , Goh George Boon‐Bee , Clemente Jose C. , Jin Aizhen , van Dam Rob M , Jia Wei , Behari Jaideep , Koh Woon‐Puay , Yuan Jian‐Min
Published: October 2020

There is limited research on the effect of dietary quality on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in populations with relatively high risk of HCC. Using data from Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective cohort study, of 63 257 Chinese aged 45 to 74, we assessed four diet‐quality index (DQI) scores: the Alternative Health Eating Index‐2010 (AHEI‐2010), Alternate Mediterranean Diet (aMED), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Heathy Diet Indicator (HDI). We identified 561 incident HCC cases among the cohort participants after a mean of 17.6 years of follow‐up. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for HCC in relation to these DQI scores. Unconditional logistic regression method was used to evaluate the associations between DQIs and HCC risk among a subset of individuals who tested negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). High scores of AHEI‐2010, aMED and DASH, representing higher dietary quality, were associated with lower risk of HCC (all Ptrend < .05). Compared with the lowest quartile, HRs (95% CIs) of HCC for the highest quartile of AHEI‐2010, aMED and DASH were 0.69 (0.53‐0.89), 0.70 (0.52‐0.95) and 0.67 (0.51‐0.87), respectively. No significant association between HDI and HCC risk was observed. Among HBsAg‐negative individuals, similar inverse associations were observed, and the strongest inverse association was for aMED (HRQ4vsQ1 = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.23‐0.94, Ptrend = .10). These findings support the notion that adherence to a healthier diet may lower the risk of HCC, suggesting that dietary modification may be an effective approach for primary prevention of HCC.
A unique urinary metabolomic signature for the detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sahni Sumit , Pandya Advait R. , Hadden William J. , Nahm Christopher B. , Maloney Sarah , Cook Victoria , Toft James A. , Wilkinson‐White Lorna , Gill Anthony J. , Samra Jaswinder S. , Dona Anthony , Mittal Anubhav
Published: October 2020

Our study aimed to identify a urinary metabolite panel for the detection/diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PDAC continues to have poor survival outcomes. One of the major reasons for poor prognosis is the advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis. Hence, identification of a novel and cost‐effective biomarker signature for early detection/diagnosis of PDAC could lead to better survival outcomes. Untargeted metabolomics was employed to identify a novel metabolite‐based biomarker signature for PDAC diagnosis. Urinary metabolites from 92 PDAC patients (56 discovery cohort and 36 validation cohort) were compared with 56 healthy volunteers using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Multivariate (partial‐least squares discriminate analysis) and univariate (Mann‐Whitney's U‐test) analyses were performed to identify a metabolite panel which can be used to detect PDAC. The selected metabolites were further validated for their diagnostic potential using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. Statistical analysis identified a six‐metabolite panel (trigonelline, glycolate, hippurate, creatine, myoinositol and hydroxyacetone), which demonstrated high potential to diagnose PDAC, with AUROC of 0.933 and 0.864 in the discovery and validation cohort, respectively. Notably, the identified panel also demonstrated very high potential to diagnose early‐stage (I and II) PDAC patients with AUROC of 0.897. These results demonstrate that the selected metabolite signature could be used to detect PDAC and will pave the way for the development of a urinary test for detection/diagnosis of PDAC.
Retinoic acid signaling and bladder cancer: Epigenetic deregulation, therapy and beyond
Authors: Ozgun Gizem , Senturk Serif , Erkek‐Ozhan Serap
Published: October 2020

Retinoic acid (RA) signaling is a crucial developmental pathway involved in urothelium development, differentiation and regeneration. Deregulation of the RA signaling is highly implicated in several cancers, including bladder cancer, underlying the need to unravel the complete regulatory aspects of the retinoids in bladder tumorigenesis. Given the fact that RA receptors are transcription factors functioning at the chromatin level and act in close cooperation with chromatin modifiers, it is known that retinoids show their efficacy by changing the epigenome. Bladder cancer can be defined as a “disease of chromatin” with mutations identified in the genes involved in chromatin regulation in 80% of the patients. Therefore, a careful examination of the epigenetic backgrounds and the breakdown of the emerging and highly underexplored field of RA dependent regulation of the epigenome is essential to fully understand the retinoid‐dependent effects on bladder cancer. With this motivation, in this review, we evaluate the role of RA signaling in bladder cancer with a focus on the regulatory and mutational aspects, emphasizing the deregulatory characteristics in bladder cancer and highlighting the potential treatment opportunities with the RA and derivatives alone or in combination with epigenetic drugs.
Acceptability and preferences for self‐collected screening for cervical cancer within health systems in rural Uganda: A mixed‐methods approach
Authors: Rawat Angeli , Sanders Catherine , Mithani Nadia , Amuge Catherine , Pedersen Heather , Namugosa Ruth , Payne Beth , Mitchell‐Foster Sheona , Orem Jackson , Ogilvie Gina , Nakisige Carolyn
Published: October 2020

Objective

To understand the knowledge, preferences, and barriers for self‐collected cervical cancer screening (SC‐CCS) and follow‐up care at the individual and health system level to inform the implementation of community‐based SC‐CCS.

Methods

Surveys and focus group discussions (FGDs) with women and FGDs with healthcare providers were conducted in Uganda. Survey data were analyzed using frequencies and FGD data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Data were triangulated between methods.

Results

Sixty‐four women were surveyed and 58 participated in FGDs. Facilitators to screening access included decentralization, convenience, privacy, confidentiality, knowledge, and education. Barriers to accessing screening included lack of transportation and knowledge, long wait times, difficulty accessing health care, and lack of trust in the health system. Additional implementation challenges included insufficiently trained human resources and lack of infrastructure.

Conclusion

Integrating SC‐CCS within rural health systems in low‐resource settings has been under‐evaluated. Community‐based SC‐CSS could prevent high cervical cancer‐related mortalities while working within the human and financial resource limitations of rural health systems. SC‐CCS is acceptable to women and healthcare providers. By addressing rural women's preferences and barriers to care, decision‐makers can build health systems that provide community‐centered care close to women's homes across the care continuum.
FIGO Statement: Vaccination in pregnancy
Authors: Nassar Anwar H. , Visser Gerard H. A. , Nicholson Wanda Kay , Ramasauskaite Diana , Kim Yoon Ha , Barnea Eytan R. ,   FIGO Safe Motherhood, Newborn Health Committee
Published: October 2020

Pregnant women and their fetuses are among the vulnerable populations that can be severely affected by communicable diseases. As such, some vaccines such as the influenza and the Tdap (tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis) vaccines are strongly recommended in each pregnancy, with generally safe profiles. Other vaccines can be offered based on risk factors, and only when the benefits of receiving them outweigh the risks. Development of vaccines against group B streptococcus infection and respiratory syncytial virus infection are of great importance. In this paper, the recommendations for administration of each vaccine during pregnancy are discussed. The FIGO Committee for Safe Motherhood and Newborn Health Committee endorses the recommendations to vaccinate all pregnant women against influenza during the influenza season at any time during the pregnancy and against Tdap preferably between the 27th and 36th weeks of pregnancy in each pregnancy.
Elimination of cervical cancer in low‐ and middle‐income countries: Inequality of access and fragile healthcare systems
Authors: Vale Diama B. , Teixeira Julio C. , Bragança Joana F. , Derchain Sophie , Sarian Luis O. , Zeferino Luiz C.
Published: October 2020

In 2018, WHO called for global action to eliminate cervical cancer. The complexity of the processes involved in terms of prevention is often underestimated. Low‐ and middle‐income countries do not have a robust healthcare framework to ensure high‐quality programs. The present article discusses how fragile healthcare systems are barriers to eliminating cervical cancer, and also reports the experience of a Brazilian prevention program. The article considers how cervical cancer can be interpreted as an indicator of inequality: how women's attitudes and access to care determine an early or late diagnosis, and how strategies combining vaccine and DNA‐HPV tests are crucial. New vaccine schemes, the critical analysis of local data, strengthening communication, managing sentinel events, and integrating vaccination and screening data for the health information system are some of the key activities to sustainable improvement in both access and quality of care.
Harnessing DNA for nanothermometry
Authors: Spicer Graham , Gutierrez‐Erlandsson Sylvia , Matesanz Ruth , Bernard Hugo , Adam Alejandro P. , Efeyan Alejo , Thompson Sebastian
Published: October 2020

Temperature measurement at the nanoscale has brought insight to a wide array of research interests in modern chemistry, physics, and biology. These measurements have been enabled by the advent of nanothermometers, which relay nanoscale temperature information through the analysis of their intrinsic photophysical behavior. In the past decade, several nanothermometers have been developed including dyes, nanodiamonds, fluorescent proteins, nucleotides, and nanoparticles. However, temperature measurement using intact DNA has not yet been achieved. Here, we present a method to study the temperature sensitivity of the DNA molecule within a physiologic temperature range when complexed with fluorescent dye. We theoretically and experimentally report the temperature sensitivity of the DNA‐Hoechst 33342 complex in different sizes of double‐stranded oligonucleotides and plasmids, showing its potential use as a nanothermometer. These findings allow for extending the thermal study of DNA to several research fields including DNA nanotechnology, optical tweezers, and DNA nanoparticles.
Tissue response to biphasic calcium phosphate covalently modified with either heparin or hyaluronic acid in a mouse subcutaneous implantation model
Authors: Stojanović Sanja , AlKhoury Hala , Radenković Milena , Cvetković Vladimir , Jablonska Magdalena , Schmelzer Christian E.H. , Syrowatka Frank , Živković Jelena M. , Groth Thomas , Najman Stevo
Published: October 2020

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) materials are widely employed as bone substitute materials due to their resorption/degradation properties. Inflammation after implantation of such materials represents a prerequisite for bone tissue repair and regeneration but can be also problematic if it is not only transient and if it is followed by fibrosis and scarring. Here, we modified BCP covalently with hyaluronan (HA) and heparin (Hep), glycosaminoglycans that possess anti‐inflammatory properties. Beside the characterization of particle surface properties, the focus was on in vivo tissue response after subcutaneous implantation in mice. Histological analysis revealed a decrease in signs of inflammatory response to BCP when modified with either HA or Hep. Reduced vascularization after 30 days was noticed when BCP was modified with either HA or Hep with greater cellularity in all examined time points. Compared to plain BCP, expression of endothelial‐related genes Flt1 and Vcam1 was higher in BCP‐HA and BCP‐Hep group at day 30. Expression of osteogenesis‐related genes Sp7 and Bglap after 30 days was the highest in BCP group, followed by BCP‐Hep, while the lowest expression was in BCP‐HA group which correlates with collagen amount. Hence, coating of BCP particles with HA seems to suppress inflammatory response together with formation of new bone‐like tissue, while the presence of Hep delays the onset of inflammatory response but permits osteogenesis in this subcutaneous bone‐forming model. Transferring the results of this study to other coated materials intended for biomedical application may also pave the way to reduction of inflammation after their implantation.
Mean platelet volume/platelet count ratio predicts severe pneumonia of COVID‐19
Authors: Zhong Qingyang , Peng Jie
Published: October 2020

Background

Although platelet mean volume/platelet count ratio (MPR) is considered to be a crucial marker of inflammatory and infectious diseases, the relationship between MPR and novel coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID‐19) remains unclear.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 85 patients with confirmed COVID‐19 were enrolled and divided into low and high MPR group. Data from repeated measures were compared by the generalized estimating equations. Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the impact of MPR on the incidence of severe pneumonia (SP), with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) used to reduce confounding bias. The primary outcome is the incidence of SP of COVID‐19.

Results

During follow‐up, 17 (20.0%) patients were developed to SP. Compared with mild patients, patients with SP developed showed a higher MPR level at baseline, day 1, day 2, and day 3 after admission (P = .005, P = .015, P = .009, and P = .032, respectively). Kaplan‐Meier method showed a higher incidence of SP in the high MPR group than the low MPR group (log‐rank test = 10.66, P = .001). After adjustment, high MPR was associated with an elevated incidence of SP (HR, 5.841, 95% CI, 1.566‐21.791, P = .009). The IPTW method also suggested that MPR was a significant factor related to the incidence of SP (HR, 8.337, 95% CI, 4.045‐17.182, P < .001).

Conclusion

High MPR level is an independent risk factor for severe pneumonia in patients with COVID‐19.
Psychological impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on dental students: A nationwide study
Authors: Hakami Zaki , Khanagar Sanjeev B. , Vishwanathaiah Satish , Hakami Abrar , Bokhari Ahmed M. , Jabali Ahmad H. , Alasmari Dhafer , Aldrees Abdullah M.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Public mental health concerns have been raised during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to assess the psychological impact of the pandemic on dental students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analytical study was conducted among dental students from different universities in Saudi Arabia selected using 2‐stage cluster sampling. The psychological impact was assessed using the validated Arabic version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale–21 Item questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. The Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used as appropriate. A chi‐squared test was used to compare the proportions between the sociodemographic data and logistic regression analysis to identify variables associated with the student's responses.

Results

The internal consistency of the scale was excellent (0.954). A total of 697 dental students participated voluntarily in the study; their mean age was 21.76 ± 1.859 years, and 54.7% were female. The majority (96.1%) were single, and 69.4% lived in a household of > 5 persons. Significant differences in mental health outcomes were evident for gender, university, and survey time. Elevated levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were recorded among 60.64%, 37.02%, and 34.92%, respectively, of the students. Females, students who lived alone, and junior students were more likely to experience psychological problems during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusions

The presence of elevated levels of depression, anxiety and stress among dental students highlights the need for psychological empowerment strategies involving institutional counseling services.
Does COVID‐19 really impact on the oxy‐hemoglobin dissociation curve?
Authors: Nóbrega Flávia , Mauad Vitor Augusto Queiroz , Borducchi Davimar Miranda Maciel
Published: October 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a crucial impact on lifestyle worldwide. In this way, many studies have been presented, leading to continuous revaluation and questioning of conducts and concepts. Such is the case of the Chinese study suggesting that the new coronavirus has the potential to code anomalous nonstructural proteins capable of dissociating the iron atom from the porphyrin structure, contributing significantly to the characteristic hypoxemia conditions of the disease. Considering the potential impacts of those findings, the current study aims to evaluate and measure the dissociation curve of oxy‐hemoglobin in COVID‐19 patients. The project consists of a retrospective cohort study with data regarding oximetry and hemoglobin levels collected from digital patients records. The correlation between the measures and estimated values by Spearmen test was 0.843 (P < .001). A multiple linear regression model was applied using measured SO2 as a predicted variable and hemoglobin, PO2, and pH levels as predictors. The coefficients were pH 0.16‐0.31 (P < .001); PO2 0.52‐0.66 (P < .001) and Hb 0.088‐0.059 (P = .706). Despite its limitations, the present study suggests that, at least in situations of clinical severity, the proposed mechanism does not appear to be universal or to have a significant clinical impact.
Efficacy of releasing impacted gallstones after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage for acute cholecystitis and consideration of the surgical difficulty during laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Fujinaga Atsuro , Iwashita Yukio , Tada Kazuhiro , Watanabe Kiminori , Kawasaki Takahide , Masuda Takashi , Hirashita Teijiro , Endo Yuichi , Ohta Masayuki , Inomata Masafumi
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is considered difficult in patients with an impacted gallstone (IG). We examined the efficacy of releasing an IG after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) for acute cholecystitis (AC) and the usefulness of the Difficulty Score (DS) proposed in the Tokyo Guidelines 2018.

Methods

Data were collected from 28 patients who underwent LC after PTGBD for AC caused by an IG in our department. The IG was released by flushing the gallbladder with saline or performing cholecystography. Release of the IG was evaluated based on cholecystography or drainage findings. Surgical outcomes were evaluated by comparing whether the IG could be released.

Results

Nine patients had an IG (IG group) and 19 had a released IG at the time of surgery. Operation time was significantly longer (P = .008), Critical View of Safety score was significantly lower (P = .019), and DS was significantly higher (P < .001) in the IG group. In multivariate analysis, DS was the only independent factor for operation time (odds ratio = 8.943, 95% confidence interval 1.179‐167.032; P = .033).

Conclusion

Releasing an IG may reduce surgical difficulty and maintain surgical safety. DS can be useful in predicting surgical outcomes.
Histological Validation of MRI: A Review of Challenges in Registration of Imaging and Whole‐Mount Histopathology
Authors: Alyami Wadha , Kyme Andre , Bourne Roger
Published: October 2020

Rigorous validation with ground truth information such as histology is needed to reliably assess the current and potential value of MRI techniques to characterize tissue and identify disease‐related tissue alterations. Commonly used methods that aim to directly correlate histology and MRI data generally fall short of this goal due to spatial errors that preclude direct matching. Errors result from tissue deformation, differences in spatial resolution and slice thickness, non‐coplanar and/or nonintersecting plane orientations, and different image contrast mechanisms. Some of these problems arise from limitations in standard protocols for clinical tissue processing and histology‐based pathology reporting, and to some extent can be addressed by modifications to standard protocols without compromising the clinical process. Typical modifications include ex vivo specimen MRI, block‐face photography, addition of fiducial markers, and 3D printed molds to constrain tissue deformation and guide sectioning. This review summarizes the advantages and limitations of MRI validation techniques based on coregistration of MRI with whole‐mount histology of tissue specimens.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
The prevalence of MERS‐CoV among military personnel and their families: A single‐center study
Authors: Alsharif Khalaf F. , Alzahrani Abdulwahab B. , Alharbi Abdulsamad O. , Algregri Tariq O. , Almuafa Badr H. , Alsulami Mishal O. , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Almuqati Malik S. , Abdel‐Moneim Ahmed S.
Published: October 2020

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) is aBetacoronavirusthat results in a severe fatal respiratory disease; however, it is also associated with mild inapparent infections. The western part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) contains the holy places where millions of Muslims gathered from all over the world, all year round, with a high probability of mass disease transmission. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of MERS‐CoV among military personnel and their families during the period 2014–2019, in the western part of the KSA. A total of 35,203 sputum samples collected from patients with respiratory distress were screened for the presence of MERS‐CoV using real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction in the examined patients. MERS‐CoV infections were detected at a very low percentage in the examined patients. Only 42 of the examined subjects (0.12%) were found positive for MERS‐CoV. Most infected cases (32/42) cases were detected in 2014, and the rest of the cases were reported in 2015–2019. The cases with fatal consequences (n = 20) were only detected in 2014. It was concluded that there is a very low prevalence of MERS‐CoV infections among the military personnel and their families.
Evaluation of transport media for laboratory detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 in upper respiratory tract swab specimens
Authors: Penrod Yvonne , Garcia Denise , Dunn S. Terence
Published: October 2020

The reduced availability of commercial swabs and transport media for testing and administrative demands for increased testing capacity during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) public health emergency has seriously challenged national laboratory testing programs, forcing many to use nontraditional collection devices, often without typical analytical assessment of their suitability in testing. Five common transport media (four commercial and one in‐house) were evaluated for their suitability in the collection of nasopharyngeal swab specimens for subsequent molecular detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome‐associated coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Results suggest that these transport media provide dependable temporal stability of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus without significant analytical interference of molecular assays. These findings are not only important for addressing critical laboratory supply chain shortages of transport media in the current COVID‐19 health crisis but also for future pandemic planning, when again supplies of commercially available transport media might be depleted.
A novel dual memristor hyperchaotic system and its application for secure communication based on three‐fold function projection synchronization
Authors: An Xiaoyu , Jiang Minghao , Deng Wei , Fang Jie
Published: October 2020

A novel simplest four‐dimensional hyperchaotic system with dual memristors is designed by using a charge‐controlled memristor and a generalized voltage‐controlled memristor. Based on the conventional dynamic analysis method and MATLAB simulation software, the dynamic characteristics of the dual memristor hyperchaotic system such as Lyapunov exponent spectrum, phase diagram, and bifurcation diagram are studied. The novel system is found to exhibit singular nonlinear phenomena, such as limit cycle, state transition and multiple scroll attractor with certain parameter values. Being different from most known chaotic systems, which contain only two isolated unstable equilibrium points, the novel system has an infinite number of unstable equilibriums points and a larger Lyapunov exponent. What is more, the three‐fold function projection synchronization of the dual memristor hyperchaotic system and its application for secure communication is studied. Based on Lyapunov stabilization theory and adaptive sliding mode control method, three driving systems and three response systems are synchronized according to the corresponding scaling function matrix, respectively. In the secure communication system, the message signal is separated into three parts loaded in the different drive systems with different initial conditions to increase the reliability. The corresponding numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the results obtained.
Zero‐fluoroscopy catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation: a transitional period experience
Authors: Cha Myung‐Jin , Lee Euijae , Oh Seil
Published: October 2020

Background

Radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) without using fluoroscopy has been getting popular. In this study, we reported the transition period experience of the zero‐fluoroscopy procedure by an experienced operator and shared our zero‐fluoroscopy protocol.

Method

A total of consecutive 30 AF ablation cases attempted to be treated without fluoroscopy were investigated. Ten serial cases were grouped as fluoroscopy‐guided period, and period 1‐3 in chronological order. All zero‐fluoroscopy attempted cases were assisted with an intracardiac echocardiography device with a three‐dimensional electroanatomical system.

Results

Complete zero‐fluoroscopy procedure was achieved at the 6th case during the transitional period. During the first period, the total procedure time slightly increased in, but afterward, procedure time was continuously decreased, and it became significantly shorter in the third period than the previous fluoroscopy‐guided period. Any additional use of fluoroscopy during the transitional period was mainly for transseptal puncture and diagnostic catheter placement into the coronary sinus. Pulmonary vein isolation was achieved in all patients, and there was one case of hemodynamically insignificant moderate amount pericardial effusion.

Conclusion

For an experienced operator, complete zero‐fluoroscopy AF ablation might be achieved safely and feasibly within 5‐10 cases. Fluoroscopy equipment backup might be useful during the learning period for beginners in the zero‐fluoroscopy procedure.
Medical Nutrition Reimbursement in Singapore: Who Are the Patients Receiving MediFund Assistance? An Audit of Clinical Outcomes and Issues Pertaining to Reimbursement in a Public Hospital in Singapore
Authors: Wong Alvin , Goh Qiu Le , Goh Soon Noi , Sowa Przemyslaw M. , Banks Merrilyn D. , Bauer Judith D.
Published: October 2020

Background

Financial reimbursement (MediFund) of medical nutrition products (MNPs) was recently implemented in some of the public hospitals in Singapore for patients with financial difficulties. This study aimed to investigate the sustainability of this policy and the benefits conferred.

Methods

We performed a 1‐year retrospective audit of patients in a tertiary hospital who received MediFund. Demographics, presupport and postsupport clinical outcomes, and cost of support were determined and analyzed.

Results

A total of 129 patients received MediFund for MNPs. The median length of financial support was 115 days (interquartile range, 37–269). Overall, body mass index increased after nutrition support (20.9 ± 5.1 vs 20.4 ± 5.3; P = .012). There was a significant decrease in the number of malnourished patients (final, 55.1% vs initial, 86.8%; P < .001) and a significant increase in 7‐point subjective global assessment scores (final, 4.9 ± 1.3 vs initial, 4.1 ± 1.3; P < .001) after MNP support. MNP adherence was high for 88.5% of patients who returned for follow‐up appointments. Patients who defaulted follow‐up appointments were more likely to have 30‐day readmission (50% vs 19.5%; P < .001) and had higher mortality rates (35.7% vs 10.3%; P < .001). Total reimbursement of S $108,960 was provided to subsidize MNPs over 1 year.

Conclusion

Supporting patients with financial difficulties led to an improvement in their nutrition status. Regular dietitian reviews of patients and monitoring compliance to consumption of MNPs are essential to ensure patients benefit from the support.
Residential Cognitive Processing Therapy Decreases Suicidality by Reducing Perceived Burdensomeness in Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Blain Rachel C. , Pukay‐Martin Nicole D. , Martin Colleen E. , Dutton‐Cox Courtney E. , Chard Kathleen M.
Published: October 2020

The interpersonal theory of suicide (Joiner, 2005) may help explain high suicide rates among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It suggests that suicidal ideation results from believing that one is a burden on others (i.e., perceived burdensomeness) and does not belong among family, friends, or other social groups (i.e., thwarted belongingness). Evidence‐based PTSD treatments, including cognitive processing therapy (CPT), decrease suicidal ideation, potentially through changes in these two theory constructs. The current study examined whether (a) changes in PTSD severity and suicidal ideation and (b) changes in negative cognitions about self and suicidal ideation were indirectly associated through changes in perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness across PTSD treatment. Participants (N = 107) were veterans in a residential treatment program who were diagnosed with full or subthreshold PTSD and received CPT. Changes in PTSD symptom severity and negative cognitions about self predicted changes in suicidal ideation, B = 0.18, p < .001 and B = 0.50, p < .001, respectively. Changes in PTSD symptom severity and negative cognitions about self were indirectly associated with suicidal ideation through changes in perceived burdensomeness, B = 0.16, 95% CI [0.07, 0.25]; B = 0.27, 95% CI [0.05, 0.50], but not thwarted belongingness, B = −0.002; 95% CI [−0.06, 0.06]; B = 0.06, 95% CI [−0.12, 0.21] in separate models. These findings suggest that residential CPT may be uniquely equipped to decrease suicidality by restructuring negative beliefs, including perceptions of being a burden on others, and/or by alleviating the objective burden of PTSD.