bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroepidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tavakoli Ahmad , Alavian Seyed Moayed , Moghoofei Mohsen , Mostafaei Shayan , Abbasi Aida , Farahmand Mohammad
Published: April 2020

Patients undergoing regular hemodialysis (HD) are at an extreme risk of acquiring bloodstream infections compared to the general population. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is an important emerging health issue in these patients. To date, numerous studies have investigated the seroprevalence of HEV among HD patients across the world; however, the data are conflicting. The present study aimed to measure the exposure rate of HD patients to HEV infection by estimating the overall seroprevalence of HEV in this high‐risk group. A systematic literature search was carried out using five electronic databases from inception to January 10, 2020, with standard keywords. Pooled seroprevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random intercept logistic regression model. The seroprevalence of HEV increased from 6.6% between the years of 1994 and 2000 to 11.13% from 2016 to 2020. Blood transfusion was associated with a nearly 2‐fold increase in the rate of HEV seropositivity (OR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.50‐2.63, P < .0001, I2 = 6.5%). HEV seroprevalence among patients with HD for more than 60 months was significantly higher than those with HD for less than 60 months (27.69%, 95% CI: 20.69%‐35.99% vs 15.78%, 95%CI: 8.85%‐26.57%, respectively) (P = .06). Our results indicated increased exposure of HD patients with HEV infection over the last decade. We concluded that blood transfusion and duration of HD are considerable risk factors for acquiring HEV infection among HD patients.
Condition‐dependent adenosine monophosphate decomposition pathways in striated adductor muscle from Japanese scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis)
Authors: Wei Huamao , Tian Yuanyong , Lin Yumeng , Maeda Hayato , Yamashita Tetsuro , Yu Kefeng , Takaki Koichi , Yuan Chunhong
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study was to confirm inosine monophosphate (IMP) generation and to clarify the decomposition pathway of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) by investigating the properties of AMP, IMP, and adenosine (AdR) decomposition enzymes in Japanese scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis). The results showed that IMP accumulated due to AMP decomposition via endogenous enzymes in scallops stored at both 4 °C and 20 °C. The AMP decomposition rate was highest in the supernatant of homogenized scallop adductor muscle, followed by the suspended solution and precipitate, while IMP could not be decomposed in scallop. The results indicated that the activity of AdR deaminase was very high, and this enzyme was involved in an intracellular process in scallop. Moreover, 1 min of heating exerted little influence on the AMP and AdR decomposition rates, while 5 min of heating induced enzyme denaturation. The IMP generation rate increased dramatically in scallop crude enzyme solution containing 5 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). This suggests that the major pathway of AMP decomposition might change with variations in metal ion concentrations in Japanese scallop.

Practical Application

IMP generation in Japanese scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) caused by endogenous enzymes was confirmed. IMP is very important for the umami taste (a pleasant savory taste) of aquatic products. As IMP accumulation might be achieved by changing the concentration of divalent metal ions and no IMP 5’‐nucleotidase activity was detected in scallop, a suitable process to produce good flavor scallops with high IMP contents might be developed.
Breaking Gridlock: How Path Dependent Layering Enhances Resilience in Global Trade Governance
Authors: Faude Benjamin
Published: April 2020

What are the implications of the proliferating preferential trade agreements (PTAs) for the liberal trade order? Many scholars and practitioners see large increases in PTAs as a destabilizing factor that undermines core features of the post‐war international trade system. By contrast, this paper argues that the accelerated growth of PTAs since the mid‐1990s enhances the resilience of the liberal trade order. PTAs increase the ability of the order to accommodate heterogeneous preferences and distributive conflicts. They represent a continuation of a longer path of liberalization set in motion by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). This path‐dependent development created conditions for a gradual expansion of the membership and the regulatory scope of the GATT/WTO system, but also heightened levels of preference heterogeneity and distributive conflicts. By enabling groups of states with homogenous preferences to layer new rules on top of the multilateral GATT/WTO system, PTAs enable the continuation of the liberalization path. Consequently, PTAs have served as complements rather than to undermine the WTO.
Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the sternum
Authors: Song Wenpeng , Zhen Zeng , Li Lin , Ye Jing , Zhou Sicheng , Wu Qiyou , Xu Liu , Li Huilin , Lin Feng
Published: April 2020

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare vascular tumor composed of dendritic and endothelial cells, and accounts for less than 1% of all vascular tumors. The tumor may arise from any location in the body, but it has a predilection for veins of the extremities, the liver, bone, and skin. Herein, we report a case of a 43‐year‐old man who presented with a chest mass accompanied by chest pain. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest showed a 3 cm × 2 cm sternal mass in the chest wall. We performed tumor resection and reconstruction of the chest wall. EHE was confirmed via postoperative pathology. The patient underwent postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy, and no evidence of tumor recurrence was discovered during the one‐year follow up.
Trifluridine/tipiracil: A practical guide to its use in the management of refractory metastatic colorectal cancer in Australia
Authors: Price Timothy , Burge Matthew , Chantrill Lorraine , Gibbs Peter , Pavlakis Nick , Shapiro Jeremy , Sjoquist Katrin
Published: April 2020

Trifluridine/tipiracil is available on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) previously treated with, or not considered candidates for, fluoropyrimidine‐, oxaliplatin‐ and irinotecan‐based chemotherapies, anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor agents and anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor agents. This article reviews trifluridine/tipiracil clinical data and presents practical information on its use in the management of refractory mCRC in Australia. Whereas the primary mechanism of action of fluoropyrimidines such as fluorouracil (5‐FU) and capecitabine is enzyme inhibition of nucleotide synthesis, trifluridine/tipiracil primarily acts by incorporation into DNA, resulting in DNA dysfunction. Trifluridine/tipiracil has activity in patients with 5‐FU‐resistant tumors and can be considered in patients with prior intolerance or toxicity to 5‐FU. In the pivotal phase III RECOURSE trial evaluating trifluridine/tipiracil in chemotherapy‐refractory mCRC, efficacy benefits were observed across all a priori prognostic subgroups including those defined by age (≥65 and ≥75 years), geographical origin, primary tumor site or KRAS status. Trifluridine/tipiracil therapy benefits appropriately selected patients who have an ECOG performance status of 0 or 1, with no more than mild hepatic impairment or mild‐to‐moderate renal impairment, and who are capable of adhering to oral therapy safely. Appropriate dosing, monitoring for adverse events and effective management of side effects are essential.
Outcomes of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy in septuagenarians
Authors: Fong Laura S. , Ko Viktor , Mclaughlin Aden , Okiwelu Ngozichukwuka Louis , Newman Mark A. , Passage Jurgen , Sanders Lucas H. A. , Joshi Pragnesh V.
Published: April 2020

Background

Spread of technology and increased surveillance have led to more patients with lung cancers being identified than ever before. Increasingly, patients from the elderly population are referred for surgery; however, many studies do not focus on this patient group. We reviewed the outcomes of septuagenarians who underwent lobectomy via an open thoracotomy (OT) or video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) approach to determine whether the VATS approach would result in superior post‐operative outcomes.

Methods

Between January 2010 and June 2016, a total of 96 patients aged 70 years or older underwent a lobectomy for non‐small cell lung carcinoma. Patients who underwent resection for metastatic disease, small cell lung cancer or neuroendocrine tumour were excluded. Demographic details, early and late post‐operative outcomes including post‐operative arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, respiratory failure, cerebrovascular events, infection, prolonged air leak, delirium, readmission and 30‐day mortality were studied. Mean follow‐up duration was 23 ± 19.1 months.

Results

Seventy‐five patients underwent lobectomy via a VATS approach and 21 patients underwent lobectomy via an OT approach. There was no 30‐day mortality and no difference in overall survival between the two techniques (P = 0.25). There was no significant difference between the two techniques with regard to post‐operative stroke, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, pneumonia, delirium or bronchopleural fistula. VATS patients had a significantly shorter mean hospital length of stay (VATS 4.7 days, OT 9.3 days, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Septuagenarians with non‐small cell lung carcinoma can successfully undergo curative lung resection with a low incidence of post‐operative complications.
Inhibition of Band 3 tyrosine phosphorylation: a new mechanism for treatment of sickle cell disease
Authors: Noomuna Panae , Risinger Mary , Zhou Sitong , Seu Katie , Man Yuncheng , An Ran , Sheik Daniel A. , Wan Jiandi , Little Jane A. , Gurkan Umut A. , Turrini Francesco M. , Kalfa Theodosia , Low Philip S.
Published: April 2020

Many hypotheses have been proposed to explain how a glutamate to valine substitution in sickle haemoglobin (HbS) can cause sickle cell disease (SCD). We propose and document a new mechanism in which elevated tyrosine phosphorylation of Band 3 initiates sequelae that cause vaso‐occlusion and the symptoms of SCD. In this mechanism, denaturation of HbS and release of heme generate intracellular oxidants which cause inhibition of erythrocyte tyrosine phosphatases, thus permitting constitutive tyrosine phosphorylation of Band 3. This phosphorylation in turn induces dissociation of the spectrin‐actin cytoskeleton from the membrane, leading to membrane weakening, discharge of membrane‐derived microparticles (which initiate the coagulation cascade) and release of cell‐free HbS (which consumes nitric oxide) and activates the endothelium to express adhesion receptors). These processes promote vaso‐occlusive events which cause SCD. We further show that inhibitors of Syk tyrosine kinase block Band 3 tyrosine phosphorylation, prevent release of cell‐free Hb, inhibit discharge of membrane‐derived microparticles, increase sickle cell deformability, reduce sickle cell adhesion to human endothelial cells, and enhance sickle cell flow through microcapillaries. In view of reports that imatinib (a Syk inhibitor) successfully treats symptoms of sickle cell disease, we suggest that Syk tyrosine kinase inhibitors warrant repurposing as potential treatments for SCD.
Structure‐based discovery of CZL80, a caspase‐1 inhibitor with therapeutic potential for febrile seizures and later enhanced epileptogenic susceptibility
Authors: Tang Yangshun , Feng Bo , Wang Yi , Sun Huiyong , You Yi , Yu Jie , Chen Bin , Xu Cenglin , Ruan Yeping , Cui Sunliang , Hu Gang , Hou Tingjun , Chen Zhong
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose

Febrile seizures (FS), the most common seizures in childhood and often accompanied by later epileptogenesis, are not well controlled. Inflammatory processes have been implicated in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. However, whether caspase‐1 is involved in FS generation and could be a target for the treatment of FS is still unclear.

Experimental Approach

By using pharmacological and gene intervention methods in C57BL/6J mice, we assessed the role of caspase‐1 in FS generation. We used structural virtual screening against the active site of caspase‐1, to screen compounds for druggable and safe low MW inhibitors of caspase‐1 in vitro. One compound was chosen to test in vivo for therapeutic potential, using FS models in neonatal mice and epileptogenesis in adult mice.

Key Results

In mice, levels of cleaved caspase‐1 increased prior to FS onset.Caspase‐1−/−mice were resistant to FS and showed lower neuronal excitability than wild‐type littermates. Conversely, overexpression of caspase‐1 usingin uteroelectroporation increased neuronal excitability and enhanced susceptibility to FS. The structural virtual screening, using molecular docking approaches for the active site of caspase‐1 of over 1 million compounds yielded CZL80, a brain‐penetrable, low MW inhibitor of caspase‐1. In neonatal mice, CZL80 markedly reduced neuronal excitability and incidence of FS generation, and, in adult mice, relieved later enhanced epileptogenic susceptibility. CZL80 was devoid of acute diazepam‐like respiratory depression and chronic liver toxicity.

Conclusion and Implications

Caspase‐1 is essential for FS generation. CZL80 is a promising low MW inhibitor of FS and later enhanced epileptogenic susceptibility.
Performance of the unilateral AV/IVC index in primary hyperaldosteronism subtype prediction: A validation study in a single tertiary centre
Authors: Suntornlohanakul Onnicha , Soonthornpun Supamai , Srisintorn Wisarut , Murray Robert D. , Kietsiriroje Noppadol
Published: April 2020

Background

Failure of cannulation of the right adrenal vein is frequent during AVS for investigation of primary aldosteronism (PA). The aldosterone:cortisol ratio of either adrenal vein compared with the inferior vena cava (AV/IVC index) has been proposed to differentiate between unilateral and bilateral disease, and aid in lateralization of unilateral disease.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with unilateral or bilateral PA identified by either successful bilateral (45 patients) or unilateral (17 patients) adrenal vein cannulation, and with biochemical remission following surgery were enrolled into the analysis. The diagnostic performances of the previously identified AV/IVC index cut‐offs of ≥5.5 to predict ipsilateral disease and ≤0.5 to predict contralateral disease were validated using data from the entire cohort.

Results

Fifty‐three patients had unilateral PA and 9 patients bilateral PA. The area under ROC curve (AUROC) of the AV/IVC cut‐off ≤0.5 for identifying unilateral aldosterone secretion from the contralateral adrenal was 0.95 (95% CI; 0.88‐0.99), whereas the AUROC of the AV/IVC cut‐off ≥5.5 for identifying unilateral aldosterone secretion from ipsilateral adrenal was 0.96 (95% CI; 0.92‐0.99). The AV/IVC index cut‐off value of 0.5 had 93% sensitivity and 91% specificity, and the AV/IVC index cut‐off value of 5.5 had 21% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The optimal AV/IVC cut‐offs to achieve 100% specificity for our cohort were >2.4 and <0.1 to predict ipsilateral and contralateral disease.

Conclusion

Our data confirm that the AV/IVC index is a potential tool for subtype classification and lateralization in patients with PA in the setting of failed bilateral, but successful unilateral, adrenal vein cannulation during AVS.
Clinical characteristics of familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia type 1: A multicentre study of 77 adult patients
Authors: Mouly Céline , Vargas‐Poussou Rosa , Lienhardt Anne , Silve Caroline , Hureaux Marguerite , Magdelaine Corinne , Buffet Alexandre , Grunenwald Solange , Kuhn Jean-Marc , Brue Thierry , Reznik Yves , Tabarin Antoine , Martin‐Coignard Dominique , Haymann Jean‐Philippe , Tack Ivan , Bennet Antoine , Caron Philippe , Linglart Agnès , Vezzosi Delphine ,   for the Reference Centre for Rare Diseases of Calcium, Phosphate Metabolism
Published: April 2020

Objective

Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia type 1 (FHH1), related to heterozygous loss‐of‐function mutations of the calcium‐sensing receptor gene, is the main differential diagnosis for primary hyperparathyroidism. The aim of our study was to describe clinical characteristics of adult patients living in France with a genetically confirmed FHH1.

Design and patients

This observational, retrospective, multicentre study included 77 adults, followed up in 32 clinical departments in France, with a genetic FHH1 diagnosis between 2001 and 2012.

Results

Hypercalcaemia was diagnosed at a median age of 53 years [IQR: 38‐61]. The diagnosis was made after clinical manifestations, routine analysis or familial screening in 56, 34 and 10% of cases, respectively, (n = 58; data not available for 19 patients). Chondrocalcinosis was present in 11/51 patients (22%), bone fractures in 8/56 (14%) and renal colic in 6/55 (11%). The median serum calcium was 2.74 mmol/L [IQR: 2.63‐2.86 mmol/L], the median plasma parathyroid hormone level was 4.9 pmol/L [3.1‐7.1], and the median 24‐hour urinary calcium excretion was 2.8 mmol/24 hours [IQR: 1.9‐4.0]. Osteoporosis (dual X‐ray absorptiometry) or kidney stones (renal ultrasonography) were found in 6/38 patients (16%) and 9/32 patients (28%), respectively. Fourteen patients (18%) underwent parathyroid surgery; parathyroid adenoma was found in three patients (21%) and parathyroid hyperplasia in nine patients (64%). No correlation between genotype and phenotype was established.

Conclusion

This large cohort study demonstrates that FHH1 clinical characteristics can be atypical in 33 patients (43%). Clinicians should be aware of this rare differential diagnosis in order to adopt an appropriate treatment strategy.
Socioeconomic deprivation and social capital in kinship carers using a helpline service
Authors: Taylor Emily P. , Di Folco Simona , Dupin Melanie , Mithen Heather , Wen Luis , Rose Lilian , Nisbet Kirsty
Published: April 2020

Kinship care is the preferred alternative for children who cannot remain with their birth family, maintaining birth family links and continuity in other parts of their life. However, kinship care has also been associated with risk factors including lack of support, difficult contact with biological parents, adverse childhood experiences for the child, carer stress and financial difficulties. Using routine data from a kinship care helpline service, this study employed a mixed‐method analysis of the association between socioeconomic deprivation and risk factors reported by kinship carers and explored social capital in kinship families. Findings indicated common risk factors experienced by kinship families regardless of deprivation level. However, certain risk factors were reported more in areas of high or low socioeconomic deprivation. Mapping the social capital of kinship families indicated that kinship families connect more with relatives than other types of informal, semi‐formal or formal support services. However, these relationships are often problematic. The most prominent obstacle to social capital growth in kinship carers was financial difficulties. Our findings suggest that kinship carers may use support services differentially according to deprivation level, and socioeconomic deprivation may influence building social capital in kinship families.
Predicting bone and soft tissue alterations of immediate implant sites in the esthetic zone using clinical parameters
Authors: Lee Chun‐Teh , Sanz‐Miralles Elena , Zhu Liang , Glick Jaclyn , Heath Andrew , Stoupel Janet
Published: April 2020

Background

Immediate implantation is generally a predictable treatment, but sometimes there are significant tissue alterations at the surgical site which compromise clinical outcomes.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the association between tissue alterations and different clinical parameters in esthetic areas following immediate implant placement and provisionalization.

Materials and Methods

Clinical parameters were measured at 36 non‐grafted immediate implant sites enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Alterations of bone and soft tissue were measured at 12 months after the treatment. Stepwise linear regression analysis was performed to analyze the association between different clinical parameters and outcomes of interest.

Results

Gingival thickness 3 mm apical to the gingival margin (GT3) was positively associated with recession of mid‐buccal gingival margin, while vertical distance between the buccal gingival margin and the crest (GM‐bone) was negatively associated (P = .03, .01). Flap elevation and older age were positively associated with recession of the interproximal gingival margin (P = .04, .01). Horizontal defect dimension was positively associated with buccal ridge dimensional reduction while gingival thickness at free gingival margin (GT1) was negatively associated (P = .01, .04). Regarding interproximal bone level change, none of the clinical parameters was significantly associated.

Conclusions

Gingival phenotype was the only parameter significantly associated with both buccal gingival recession and buccal ridge dimensional reduction. It is important to assess clinical parameters before and during immediate implant procedure.
A comparative evaluation of dexmedetomidine and midazolam in pediatric sedation: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Lang Bingchen , Zhang Lingli , Zhang Wensheng , Lin Yunzhu , Fu Yuzhi , Chen Shouming
Published: April 2020

Background

The present study with trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted to evaluate comprehensively the efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine and midazolam in pediatric sedation, and to investigate whether the outcomes achieved the required information size to draw the conclusions.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to October 2019. All randomized controlled trials used dexmedetomidine and midazolam in pediatric sedation were enrolled. Sedative efficacy, postoperative analgesic effect, and incidence of emergence agitation were considered as the co‐primary outcomes. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was applied to rate the quality of evidences.

Results

We acquired data from 34 studies involving 2281 pediatric patients. The results indicated that administration of dexmedetomidine was associated with less incidence of emergence agitation (RR = 0.78, with 95% CI [0.65, 0.92]) and more satisfactory sedation at parental separation (RR = 0.31, with 95% CI [0.24, 0.41]) compared to midazolam, and the current sample sizes were sufficient with unnecessary further trials. Two groups did not differ significantly in sedation level at mask induction (RR = 0.86, with 95% CI [0.74, 1.00]). And using of dexmedetomidine was associated with less incidence of postoperative analgesic rescue (RR = 0.57, with 95% CI [0.35, 0.93]), but the number of patients was too few to achieve the required information size and to draw reliable conclusions. Premedication of dexmedetomidine was associated with significant less value of SBP, heart rate, increased incidence of bradycardia, and a lower rate of shivering. And there were no differences about onset of sedation and recovery time between two groups.

Conclusions

Given that more satisfactory sedation at separation from parents and less incidence of emergence agitation, dexmedetomidine is preferred for pediatric sedation. However, compared with midazolam, the superiority of dexmedetomidine in providing adequate sedation at mask induction and postoperative analgesic effects has not yet been defined.
Linc02349 promotes osteogenesis of human umbilical cord‐derived stem cells by acting as a competing endogenous RNA for miR‐25‐3p and miR‐33b‐5p
Authors: Cao Lihua , Liu Wei , Zhong Yancheng , Zhang Yanru , Gao Dan , He Tiantian , Liu Ying , Zou Zi , Mo Yuqing , Peng Shuping , Shuai Cijun
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Increasing evidences suggest that inducing mesenchymal stem cells to differentiate into osteoblasts has been as an especially important component in the prevention and therapy for degenerative bone disease. Here, we identify a novel lncRNA, linc02349, which increases significantly during osteogenic differentiation.

Materials and methods

Human umbilical cord‐derived stem cells (hUC‐MSCs) and dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells were used. Overexpression and knockdown of linc02349 in cell lines were generated using lentiviral‐mediated gene delivery method. Bioinformatics prediction, Ago2‐RIP assay and dual‐luciferase reporter system were employed to examine miRNA which interacts with linc02349. The RNA FISH assay was performed to identify the subcelluar location of linc02349. Alizarin Red S staining, ALP staining and qPCR were applied to identify the osteogenic differentiation. The potential linc02349‐regulated genes, miR‐25‐3p and miR‐33b‐5p, were explored by ChIP, RIP and Western blotting assays. Micro‐CT was used to measure the osteogenic content in bone formation assay in vivo.

Results

Linc02349 overexpression improves osteogenic differentiation by in vitro and in vivo analysis. Mechanistically, linc02349 acts as a molecular sponge for miR‐25‐3p and miR‐33b‐5p to control expression abundance of SMAD5 and Wnt10b, respectively, which eventually activated Dlx5/OSX pathway and hence promoted osteogenic differentiation. In addition, we revealed that STAT3 interacts with linc02349 promoter region and positively regulates the linc02349 transcriptional activity.

Conclusion

These findings identify that linc02349 modulates the osteogenic differentiation through acting as a sponge RNA of miR‐25‐3p and miR‐33b‐5p and regulating SMAD5 and Wnt10b, and proposed a new interaction between STAT3 and linc02349, which could be a potential target in the process the osteogenesis of hUC‐MSCs for future clinical application.
Left ventricular geometry as a predictor of carotid artery stenosis severity in patients undergoing carotid artery stenting
Authors: Duran Karaduman Bilge , Ayhan Hüseyin , Keleş Telat , Bozkurt Engin
Published: April 2020

Background and Aim

Cerebrovascular diseases are the second most common cause of death worldwide. Moderate and severe carotid artery stenosis causes nearly 10% of all strokes. LV geometry is a familiar prognostic and diagnostic factor in several populations; yet, data on its role in carotid artery stenosis are unknown. In our study, we investigated the prognostic value of LV geometry in predicting carotid artery stenosis severity in patients undergoing carotid artery stenting.

Methods

Patients who underwent carotid artery stenting between January 2012 and January 2016 at our tertiary care center were evaluated retrospectively. Two hundred fifty‐five patients who underwent carotid artery stenting were included in the study. Accessible echocardiographic documentation of ninety‐eight patients was accessed and evaluated.

Results

LV normal geometry was detected in 37 (37.7%) of the 98 carotid artery stenting (CAS) patients, concentric hypertrophy in 13 (13.2%), eccentric hypertrophy in 9 (9.1%), and concentric remodeling in 39 (39.7%). By a majority, distal filter was used in normal geometry and eccentric hypertrophy groups (82.9% vs 100%, P: .017). Considering the relationship between carotid artery stenosis severity and LV geometry, we determined that the stenosis severity was statistically significantly higher in the concentric hypertrophy group (p:0.012). However, although no complications were detected in the concentric hypertrophy group, it did not reach statistical significance between the groups (P: .058). LVMi and as expected, Doppler velocity showed a significant correlation with stenosis severity (r = .23 vs .54; P: .021, <.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Echocardiographic evaluation of LV geometry provided prognostic information in the development of carotid artery stenosis. Abnormal LV geometry is an independent predictor in detecting the severity of carotid artery stenosis undergoing carotid artery stenting.
Implications of size‐selective fisheries on sexual selection
Authors: Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva
Published: April 2020

Fisheries often combine high mortality with intensive size selectivity and can, thus, be expected to reduce body size and size variability in exploited populations. In many fish species, body size is a sexually selected trait and plays an important role in mate choice and mate competition. Large individuals are often preferred as mates due to the high fecundity and resources they can provide to developing offspring. Large fish are also successful in competition for mates. Fisheries‐induced reductions in size and size variability can potentially disrupt mating systems and lower average reproductive success by decreasing opportunities for sexual selection. By reducing population sizes, fisheries can also lead to an increased level of inbreeding. Some fish species avoid reproducing with kin, and a high level of relatedness in a population can further disrupt mating systems. Reduced body size and size variability can force fish to change their mate preferences or reduce their choosiness. If mate preference is genetically determined, the adaptive response to fisheries‐induced changes in size and size variability might not occur rapidly. However, much evidence exists for plastic adjustments of mate choice, suggesting that fish might respond flexibly to changes in their social environment. Here, I first discuss how reduced average body size and size variability in exploited populations might affect mate choice and mate competition. I then consider the effects of sex‐biased fisheries on mating systems. Finally, I contemplate the possible effects of inbreeding on mate choice and reproductive success and discuss how mate choice might evolve in exploited populations. Currently, little is known about the mating systems of nonmodel species and about the interplay between size‐selective fisheries and sexual selection. Future studies should focus on how reduced size and size variability and increased inbreeding affect fish mating systems, how persistent these effects are, and how this might in turn affect population demography.
The time‐varying performance of UK analyst recommendation revisions: Do market conditions matter?
Authors: Su Chen , Zhang Hanxiong , Hudson Robert S.
Published: April 2020

This study examines the time‐varying performance of investment strategies following analyst recommendation revisions in the UK stock market, with specific emphasis on the impact of changing market conditions. We find a negative relationship between the recommendation performance and market conditions as measured in terms of past market return and market volatility. In particular, the upgrade (downgrade) portfolio generates significantly positive (negative) net abnormal returns in bad market conditions (e.g., the dot‐com bubble burst in 2000 and the credit crisis in 2007), but not in other periods of time. Moreover, our non‐temporal threshold regression analysis shows that the reported negative relationship disappears when market conditions become better, i.e., when the past market return (market volatility) is higher (lower) than a certain level, indicating the importance of taking non‐linearity into account in the long sample period as examined in this study. Our time‐series bootstrap simulations further confirm that the superior recommendation performance in bad market conditions is not due to random chance; analysts have certain skills in making valuable up/downward revisions in bad markets.
Evidence for intraspecific phenotypic variation in songbirds along elevation gradients in central Europe
Authors: Sander Martha Maria , Chamberlain Dan
Published: April 2020

Studying phenotypic variations along gradients may provide insights into mechanisms that drive species distributions and thus can be useful indicators of environmental change. In mountains, the study of phenotypic variation along elevation gradients is of increasing relevance due to the impacts of climate change. We analysed European ringing data to measure the direction of phenotypic variation along elevation gradients in six common, resident songbird species occurring along a wide elevational range. We modelled intraspecific change in wing length, body mass and their ratio with elevation and found a significant increase in wing length and a decrease in body mass at high elevations. The results of our exploratory analysis show the potential that continent‐wide ringing databases offer to describe patterns of phenotypic variation along environmental gradients.
Effects of oral health promotion programmes on adolescents’ oral health‐related quality of life: A systematic review
Authors: Lattanzi Aretuza Pires dos Santos , Silveira Flávia Maia , Guimarães Ludmila , Antunes Lívia Azeredo Alves , dos Santos Antunes Leonardos , Assaf Andrea Videira
Published: April 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effects of oral health promotion programmes (OHPP) on adolescents' oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL).

Methods

An electronic search was performed in five databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, Virtual Health Library, Web of Science, Cochrane, Grey Literature databases), and specific indexers were used in the manual search. Clinical/community trials, cross‐sectional or cohort studies, published in any language, were included. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analysed for quality and bias risk.

Results

From a total of 2343 abstracts, 4 articles were selected for quality evaluation including 2 studies classified with low, 1 with moderate and 1 with high methodological quality. The qualitative synthesis showed some methodological biases and heterogeneous interventions. Effective OHPP improve OHRQoL. The association of educational and dental care strategies generated greater positive effects on OHRQoL than those related only to treatment or isolated educational practices.

Conclusion

Although studies showed positive effects of OHPP on adolescents’ OHRQoL, both their shortage and low methodological quality indicates the need for developing other well‐designed studies to investigate the present question. Record number in PROSPERO database (CRD42018084434).
Milk lipid in vitro digestibility in wheat, corn and rice starch hydrogels
Authors: Huang Zhiguang , Brennan Charles S. , Mohan Maneesha S. , Stipkovits Letitia , Zheng Haotian , Kulasiri Don , Guan Wenqiang , Zhao Hui , Liu Jianfu
Published: April 2020

Starch‐based hydrogels or nanoemulsions have been used to regulate lipid digestibility. However, there is a paucity of reports on how starch gels affect milk lipid in vitro digestion. This study compared the pancreatic‐lipase‐catalysed digestibility of milk lipids in two matrices: milk fat dispersion and milk fat‐loaded starch gels. Optical microscopy analysis illustrated that lipid droplets were distributed evenly in starch gels. The peak viscosities of lipid‐containing starch gels were higher than those of samples without filled‐lipids, whereas final viscosities were reduced with the addition of lipid. Free fatty acid release measurement showed that milk fat embedded in starch gels were two to three times more digestible than dispersed milk fat globules in aqueous phase, as confirmed by a multistep hydrolysis reaction model. This study offers a feasible way to manipulate milk lipid digestibility by stabilisation with starch gels.
High glucose level as a modifier factor in CMT1A patients
Authors: Secchin Juliana B. , Leal Rita C. C. , Lourenço Charles M. , Marques V. D. , Nogueira Patricia T. L. , Santos Andre C. J. , Tomaselli Pedro J. , Marques Wilson
Published: April 2020

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) is the most common type of hereditary neuropathy worldwide and diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most frequent cause of peripheral neuropathy in the Western world. CMT1A typically manifest as a predominant motor neuropathy, while, DM‐related neuropathy often manifests as a predominant sensory disorder. There are some evidences that CMT1A patients that also had DM had a more severe neuropathy. Although the real frequency and the underlying mechanisms related to this association has not yet been addressed in the literature. We sought to characterize the phenotypic variability of CMT1A patients with persistent high glucose levels (DM or impaired glucose tolerance [IGT]). Nineteen patients with CMT1A and DM (CMTdiab), seven with CMT1A and IGT (CMTintol) and 27 with CMT1A without comorbidities were analyzed. They were evaluated through clinical assessment, application of the following scales: visual analogue scale, McGill, CMTNS, SF‐36 and COMPASS 31 and electrophysiological studies. Patients CMTdiab had a more severe motor and sensory neuropathy, more intense autonomic symptoms and worse quality of life. Surprisingly, proximal weakness and temporal dispersion on nerve conduction studies are frequently observed in this group. Patients CMTintol also had a more severe neuropathy. Curiously, we observed that the association of CMT1A and glucose metabolism disorders (CMTglic) clustered in some families. Patients CMTglic develop a more severe neuropathy. As there is yet no cure to CMT1A, a strict blood sugar control may be a useful measure.
A novel method for assessing oral mixing ability based on the spatial clusters quantified by variogram
Authors: Lo Kuang‐Chuan , Lin Hsiao‐Han , Lin Chia‐Shu
Published: April 2020

Background

The two‐colour chewing test (TCCT) has been widely used for assessing oral mixing ability, a critical component of masticatory performance. Most studies focused on quantifying the evenness of colour distribution. It remained unknown if the variation of colour clustering was a valid index of oral mixing ability.

Objective

The study aims to investigate the oral mixing ability based on the spatial clusters quantified by variogram.

Methods

Fifty older people (15 male/35 female, age: 66.0 ± 7.8 years) were assessed for the TCCT and the colour‐changeable chewing gum test (CCGT). For the CCGT, we quantified the degree of colour change (ΔE). For the TCCT, the highest peak in colour histogram (HP), the standard deviation of colour values (SDC) and the range of variogram from colour spatial distribution (VARG) were quantified. The participants were grouped according to the contacts of posterior teeth, as assessed by Eichner Index (EI).

Results

Highest peak, SDC and VARG showed statistically significant differences between the EI groups (two‐tailed independent t test P < .05). Higher VARG (ie a lower degree of clustering) was significantly negatively correlated with ΔE (r = −.36, one‐tailed P < .01). The binary logistic regression revealed that among the spatial indices (HP, SDC and VARG), only VARG achieved statistical significance in prediction to the EI group. Eliminating other indices was insignificant to the model performance.

Conclusions

Our results show that the averaged cluster sizes, quantified by variogram, are a valid index for quantifying the TCCT. Compared with other spatial indices, it had the best predictability to the condition of posterior contact.
Help, I can’t help: A qualitative study of psychiatric nurse’s perspectives on their care for people who hear voices
Authors: McCluskey Anita , de Vries Jan
Published: April 2020

Accessible Summary

What is known about the subject?

There are no studies on the perceptions of psychiatric nurses on interventions they provided to people hearing voices while in an acute psychiatric unit in Ireland. There are three studies focussed on psychiatric nurses’ experiences of caring for people that hear voices, two based in England and one based in Australia. Only two of these studies is focussed on nurses working in an acute psychiatric unit.

What is this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This study used semi‐structured interviews to explore perceptions of psychiatric nurses in the Republic of Ireland on interventions they provided people hearing voices while in an acute psychiatric unit.

What are the implications for practice?

Further quantitative and qualitative research into the nursing practice for people experiencing auditory hallucinations, in both in‐patient and community settings. Follow up supports and supervision after the completion training programmes should be implemented, to ensure the transition of skills and knowledge to the clinical environment. Further investigation into whether or not psychiatric nurses are well prepared for the developments outlined in national polices.

Aims and Objectives

To explore the perspectives and experiences of Irish psychiatric nurses working in acute care in regard to their role in addressing hearing voices in the people in their care, with a view to gain insight in the nurses’ personal experiences, interventions they provide, attitudes, knowledge, facilitating factors and challenges.

Background

Treatment of auditory hallucinations often takes place in acute psychiatric care. Traditionally treatment was focused on medication, but this is no longer the sole approach, with psychosocial interventions gaining ground. Psychiatric nurses have the potential to provide these interventions. As part of the changing emphasis of mental health care in Ireland towards more responsibilities for psychiatric nurses, there is a need to establish whether psychiatric nurses are prepared to take up these added responsibilities.

Design

A qualitative study, comprising of semi‐structured interviews (n = 16).

Results

Four themes emerged through thematic analysis. These included (a) the importance of therapeutic relationships; (b) reservations about the emphasis on medication; (c) limitations to interventions; and (d) the lack of focus/structure of interventions.

Conclusions

The use of systematic psychosocial interventions for people who hear voices is not well supported in the acute psychiatric settings the psychiatric nurses in the study worked in.
Geographic Variation of UV Stress Tolerance in Red Seaweeds Does Not Scale with Latitude Along the SE Pacific Coast
Authors: Véliz Karina , Chandía Nancy , Bischof Kai , Thiel Martin
Published: April 2020

Geographic variation of phenotypic traits affects the capacity of species to withstand and adapt to environmental stress. Here, we examined how geographic origin influences UV stress tolerance of the red seaweeds Chondracanthus chamissoi and Gelidium lingulatum distributed along the South‐East Pacific coast between 20° S and 42° S. Seaweeds from six (C. chamissoi) and five (G. lingulatum) populations were grown under common‐garden conditions and then exposed to consecutive UV stress events and essential biological traits (e.g., growth, photosynthetic responses, antioxidant capacity, and UV‐absorbing compounds) were analyzed. In C. chamissoi, a strong UV sensitivity occurred in populations from mid‐latitudes (27° S and 29° S) where the lowest recovery of maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm; between 32.3% and 66.8% of control) and growth rate were observed. Likewise, the lowest amount of mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs) and a significant decrease in phycobilins were registered in these populations. In G. lingulatum, recovery of Fv/Fm ranged from 82.0% to 97.7% of control, and antioxidant activity, carotenoid, and MAA contents were positively influenced by UV exposure. The multivariate analysis indicated a significant influence of PAR, cloud cover, and UV index on physiological traits, depending on species. The ecotypic differentiation index (EDI) indicated a higher phenotypic variation in C. chamissoi (EDI = 0.10) than G. lingulatum (EDI = 0.03). This study shows that the spatial distribution of UV stress tolerance in the studied seaweeds does not follow linear latitudinal or central–edge gradients. Instead, among‐site variability of solar intensities driven by specific climatic conditions seems to act as driver of phenotypic variation.
Lower urinary tract function improves after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for elderly patients with pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Togo Mio , Kitta Takeya , Kanno Yukiko , Ouchi Mifuka , Tokiwa Shino , Huang Tingwen , Moriyama Shingo , Nomura Jimmy , Moriya Kimihiko , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is relatively common in the elderly population. Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) has been reported by several studies to be a less invasive treatment option as compared to open sacrocolpopexy. However, almost all prior reports focused on the complications or surgical obstacles. The present study was designed to examine POP patients of all ages and assess lower urinary tract function before and after LSC.

Methods

This retrospective study examined the results of LSC performed in POP patients. Urodynamic studies were performed pre‐ and postoperatively in 50 patients, with the subjects divided into two groups containing those less than and those older than 65 years of age. We performed a pressure flow study. We examined bladder functions by evaluating bladder capacity, detrusor pressure at maximum flow (PdetQmax), maximum flow rate (Qmax), normal desire to void, strong desire to void, voided volume, and postvoid residual volume (PVR). Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Values of P < .05 were considered significant.

Results

With regard to the pressure‐flow study parameters, there was a significant increase in the normal desire to void and bladder capacity only in the ≥65 age group. After the operation, there was a significant increase in the mean postoperative Qmax and voided volume, while there was a significant decrease in the PdetQmax and PVR as compared to the preoperative values only in the ≥65 age group.

Conclusions

Results show that in elderly patients with POP, LSC might be a valid option with regard to potentially regaining urinary tract function.
The explanatory project of Gricean pragmatics
Authors: Dänzer Lars
Published: April 2020

The Gricean paradigm in pragmatics has recently been attacked for its alleged lack of explanatory import, based on the claim that it does not seek accounts of how utterance interpretation actually works, but merely of how it might work. This article rebuts this line of attack by offering a clear and detailed account of the explanatory project of Gricean pragmatics according to which the latter aims for rationalizing explanations of utterance interpretation. It is shown that, on this view, Gricean pragmatics seeks psychological explanations of utterance interpretation that are “cognitively real” in a perfectly clear and robust sense.