bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Show, Not Tell: The Contingency Role of Infographics Versus Text in the Differential Effects of Message Strategies on Optimistic Bias
Authors: Huang Guanxiong , Li Kang , Li Hairong
Published: November 2019

Using an online between-subject experiment, this study tested the effects of message framing (gain vs. loss), reference point (self vs. other), and modality (text vs. infographics) in the scenario of recycling promotion. The findings identified that modality determines under what circumstances message strategies make a difference in risk perception and optimistic bias. In particular, only when paired with infographics and other-referencing point are loss-framed messages more effective than gain-framed messages in increasing risk perception and reducing the self-other gap in perceived benefits. Moreover, risk perception variables and the self-other risk perceptual gap were significant predictors of promoted behavioral intentions.
Data’s (In)Humanism: Re/presentations of State, Institutions, and Practices in Contemporary Educational Re/search
Authors: Castro Samayoa Andrés , Wargo Jon M. , Oliveira Gabrielle
Published: November 2019

This article addresses how researchers have drawn from qualitative methods when engaging with/in liminal populations, with a focus on historically marginalized populations and their rhetorical and material (dis)placement. As scholars housed within distinct domains of educational scholarship, we embrace this opportunity to “think-with-theory” and collaborate across methodological and theoretical differences. Ecologies of liminal (in)humanisms are discussed across analytic snapshots of seemingly incommensurate empirical research traversing analytic domains: state, institutions, and practices. We consider a liminality of (in)human politics, one that unravels the entanglement of what data, research/er, and method(ology) are in our contemporary context.
Inflammatory optic neuropathy in granulomatosis with polyangiitis can mimick isolated idiopathic optic neuritis
Authors: Clément Manon , Néel Antoine , Toulgoat Frédérique , Weber Michel , Godmer Pascal , Hutin Pascal , Hamidou Mohamed , Lebranchu Pierre
Published: November 2019

Objective:

We describe a clinico-radiological presentation of inflammatory optic neuropathy that mimicked optic neuritis.

Methods:

Retrospective single-center case series and literature review of optic neuropathy without orbital pseudotumor.

Results:

Five local patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Clinical presentation revealed rapidly progressive severe unilateral visual loss, retrobulbar pain (n = 4), and paralytic strabismus (simultaneous = 2, protracted = 2) without proptosis. Optic nerve abnormality was not appreciated on initial scan review. Patients did not have any general activity of the granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Upon follow-up magnetic resonance imaging and initial imaging review, all patients revealed orbital apex anomalies. Visual acuity improved in three patients who received high-dose intravenous glucocorticosteroids immediately. Relapse was frequent and visual outcome was poor (final vision > 20/40 in two patients only). Literature review identified 16 well-documented cases of granulomatosis with polyangiitis–related isolated optic neuropathies. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed no abnormality (n = 6), optic nerve and/or sheath involvement (n = 9), apex infiltration (n = 3), and/or pachymeningitis (n = 7).

Conclusion:

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare yet potentially blinding cause of inflammatory optic neuropathy. Optic neuropathy in granulomatosis with polyangiitis may occur in the absence of systemic symptoms of disease activity and is challenging to distinguish from other inflammatory and non-inflammatory disorders affecting visual acuity. Several clinical and imaging clues suggest that optic neuropathy results from the development of an extravascular granulomatous process within the optic nerve sheath in the orbital apex, a place that is difficult to image. In a granulomatosis with polyangiitis patient with unexplained visual loss and a seemingly normal workup (fundoscopy, biology, and imaging), clinician should keep a high index of suspicion.
Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and Serum Folate: A Case Study
Authors: Croff Julie M , Chiaf Ashleigh L , Hartwell Micah L , Crockett Erica K , Tan Chibing , Teague Kent
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

In 2018, the US Surgeon General declared youth electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use as an epidemic. Combustible cigarettes have been shown to adversely affect folate status; however, no study to date has explored how ENDS impact folate status.

Methods:

In this case study, a white 18-year-old woman was followed for a 1-month period as part of a larger study. During her participation in the study, a self-report of dietary folate consumption and use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) was collected. Each week, dried blood spots were collected to assess red blood cell (RBC) and serum folate.

Results:

During the first 2 weeks of the study, she used ENDS and her serum folate values were depleted in the ranges of 1.91 to 4.39 µg/L. During the third week, when no ENDS were used, her serum folate value was measured at 29.44 µg/L. When ENDS use resumed during the fourth week, her serum folate value fell to 7.50 µg/L.

Conclusions:

This relationship suggests the need for additional studies on ENDS use and serum folate status, particularly among adolescent women who already have the lowest folate status nationally.
In-situ-determination of tribologically induced hydrogen permeation using electrochemical methods
Authors: Oberle Natalie , Amann Tobias , Kürten Dominik , Raga Rahul , Kailer Andreas
Published: November 2019

White etching cracks are one of the possible causes of bearing damage, which can lead to the failure of wind turbines. The mechanisms of hydrogen diffusion in bearings are not yet fully understood, but it is assumed under tribological loading that the lubricant degradation releases hydrogen which diffuses into the contacting surfaces (i.e. steel). This leads to hydrogen-induced cracking and damage to the bearings. In order to better understand these mechanisms, it is necessary to investigate the influence of tribological loads and lubricant composition on hydrogen release. For this purpose, a test setup was developed for the analysis of tribologically induced hydrogen permeation by means of a ball-on-plate test. The diffused hydrogen was measured with an electrochemical three-electrode setup. The results showed a direct correlation between the amount of hydrogen released and the applied normal load. Furthermore, an increased velocity resulted in enhanced diffusion of hydrogen through metal. In addition, the tribological contact surface was decisive for hydrogen permeation. The higher velocity and the larger contact area result in an activated nascent iron surface which promotes hydrogen penetration. The results show that lubricants can be classified as critical for the formation of hydrogen embrittlement in tribological contacts.
Brokering labour: The politics of markets in the Kathmandu construction industry
Authors: Hirslund Dan V
Published: November 2019

Although there is a rich tradition for labour studies in anthropology, little attention has so far been paid to the markets that connect prospective employees with places of work. In this article, I show that places of labour mobilization become sites of brokerage that index the complicated politics through which labour is rendered available to industry, particular in the context of non-formalized employment relations. Utilizing a political economic framework, I locate contemporary informal construction labour within the larger histories of employment that have characterized the Nepali state’s integration into the global economy. Based on ethnographic fieldwork in Kathmandu, the article traces processes of dislocation and differentiation for construction labourers as they struggle to secure work and argues for the role precarious workers themselves play as brokers of their labour power as a protection mechanism against experiences of exploitation.
Illegal or unethical? Situated ethics in the context of a dual economy
Authors: Bono Federica
Published: November 2019

In this paper, I draw on my experiences doing field research in Cuba, to contribute to the idea that participating in illegal activities is not necessarily unethical. Using a reflexive analysis, I argue that as a foreign researcher in Cuba’s dual economy, full participation in Cubans’ daily life—though illegal for both the researcher and the participants—was necessary to establish trust. This allowed me to gain social access to the field while allowing participants to spread the risk. Ultimately, it led to a more accurate account of Cubans’ daily practices through which I was able to address unbalanced and misinformed interpretations of the island and its people, which is crucial in the midst of highly politicized literature on Cuba.
Internal Carotid Artery Aplasia in a Patient With Nail-Patella Syndrome
Authors: Kraus Jacqueline , Jahngir Muhammad Umair , Singh Baljinder , Qureshi Adnan I.
Published: November 2019

Nail-patella syndrome (NPS) is a rare disorder characterized by abnormal development of ectodermal and mesodermal tissues. Classically, NPS presents as a triad of nail dysplasia, dysplastic patellae, and bony exostoses of the ilia known as “iliac horns.” Apart from dermatological and skeletal abnormalities, patients may also have involvement of ophthalmologic and renal systems. The underlying molecular etiology in NPS is the mutation of LMX1B homeobox gene which results in loss of function of its protein also called LMX1B, a DNA-binding protein belonging to the larger LIM-homeodomain transcription factor family. Normal LMX1B gene and protein function are essential for dorsalization of the vertebrate limb bud, development of anterior eye structures, skull formation, and differentiation and migration of neurons in the central nervous system. We report a case of confirmed NPS presenting with congenital aplasia of the internal carotid artery and believe this is the first report of cerebrovascular developmental abnormality associated with NPS.
Biphasic Dose–Response and Hormetic Effects of Stress Hormone Hydrocortisone on Telomerase-Immortalized Human Bone Marrow Stem Cells In Vitro
Authors: Gopi Indra Kumar , Rattan Suresh I. S.
Published: November 2019

Although high levels of stress hormones are associated with well-known negative health outcomes, their low levels can have health-promoting effects by virtue of the phenomenon of mild stress-induced hormesis. We have studied the effects of a wide range (between 100 nmol/L and 150 μmol/L) of hydrocortisone (HC) on human bone marrow stem cells in vitro. Telomerase-immortalized human mesenchymal stem cells (hTERT-MSCs) were exposed to various doses of HC for different durations (1-6 days) and analyzed for survival and metabolic activity by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, for cell migratory ability by a wound-healing assay and for osteoblastic and adipogenic differentiation abilities in vitro. Our findings indicate that hTERT-MSCs exposed to HC resulted in a biphasic hormetic dose–response in some measures but not all. Although the mitochondrial and metabolic MTT activity assay clearly showed low-level stimulatory (between 0.1 and 1 µmol/L) and high-level inhibitory effects (from about 10 µmol/L onward), the cytostatic and differentiation-inducing effects were mostly linear at concentrations between 1 and 100 µmol/L. Further long-term studies will elucidate whether chronic or intermittent exposure of human cells to stress hormones has physiologically beneficial hormetic effects.
Analysis of rolling on steel and rubber-covered rollers using viscoelasticity
Authors: Chu Hongyan , Chen Qi , Wang Rui , Hong Yingjie
Published: November 2019

In this article, a series of analysis were performed on a two-dimensional structure of steel and rubber-covered rollers. First, a hyperelastic–viscoelastic composite constitutive model based on a dynamic mechanical experiment of rubber was formulated to accurately describe rubber properties. Meanwhile, a hyperelastic constitutive model not considering viscoelasticity was set as the control group. The material used in this article was the nitrile rubber with the Shore hardness of 40. Then, the effects of viscoelasticity on the von Mises stress were analyzed by comparing results of two models. The influences of working conditions (roller speeds/compression displacement) on the von Mises stress and the area of hysteresis loop were also studied. Next, the contact characteristics under different working conditions and constitutive models were analyzed combining viscoelasticity. A verification experiment of contact width was carried out, and the theoretical and simulated values were calculated and compared. Finally, the relation of “low peak” phenomenon with viscoelasticity was studied, and the effects of working conditions and rubber viscoelasticity on contact feature of rollers were summarized. The conclusions of the article can help engineers to better optimize dynamic working conditions and judge the working state of the structure.
Output error of converse piezoelectric fiber voltage sensor caused by optical fiber factors
Authors: Yang Han Rui , Qiao Li , Xia Lin Lin , Xu Shi Bo , Guo Yi Chang , Zhang Yong Jie
Published: November 2019

In fiber voltage sensor, imperfect fiber splicing angle and length difference between the sensing fiber and the compensating fiber usually influence the system output performance. This article established the mathematical model of the system output error using the Jones matrix and analyzed the relationship between the system output error and the above two error factors, respectively. The results show that the angle error of 90° splice has a significant influence on the system output, and the tolerance of angle error varies with different test voltages. When the test voltage is higher than 6 kV, if the expected system error is less than 0.02%, the splicing angle error should be less than 0.15°. Additionally, the length difference also has a significant influence on the system output accuracy. The length difference between sensing fiber and compensating fiber should be less than 1 µm when the test voltage is 110 kV so that the system can meet the accuracy requirements of IEC 0.2s. This research provides a reference for the development of fiber voltage sensor based on the converse piezoelectric effect and also provides a basis for the design of intelligent power detection robot system.
The Misuse of Gender Dysphoria: Toward Greater Conceptual Clarity in Transgender Health
Authors: Ashley Florence
Published: November 2019

The notion of gender dysphoria is central to transgender health care but is inconsistently used in the clinical literature. Clinicians who work in transgender health must understand the difference between the diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria as defined and described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the notion of this term as used to assess eligibility for transition-related interventions such as hormone-replacement therapy and surgery. Unnecessary diagnoses due to the belief that a diagnosis is clinically required to access transition-related care can contribute to stigma and discrimination toward trans individuals.
Glenoid vault perforation in total shoulder arthroplasty: Do we need computer guidance?
Authors: Flynn Jennifer N , Wijeratna Malin , Evans Matthew , Lee Steven , Taylor David McD , Hoy Gregory A
Published: November 2019

The proliferation of computer 3D simulation and computer-generated guides is aimed at minimizing perforation of the glenoid vault by glenoid pegs in shoulder arthroplasty, based on assumptions that perforation leads to worse outcomes by component loosening and potential failure. We evaluated outcomes of glenoid peg perforation testing the assumption that perforation produces worse results. Eighty-three shoulders underwent shoulder arthroplasty with pegged hybrid fixation (bone-ingrowth flanged central glenoid peg and peripheral cemented pegs) without precision signal injector guides or use of 3D planning software. Outcomes were determined by American Shoulder and Elbow Score and Oxford Shoulder Score. Fine slice CT determined the presence of vault perforation and the extent of lucent lines at the prosthesis–bone interface and bony morphology of the vault perforation. Follow-up was 46.7 months (24–99). Seven shoulders (8%) demonstrated perforation of glenoid vault. Bony ingrowth and cortical overgrowth occurred despite perforation, with no clinically significant differences in clinical or radiological outcomes in shoulders with and without glenoid vault perforation. None of these patients underwent revision surgery. Despite not utilizing computer planning and/or guides, 92% of implants did not perforate the glenoid vault. However, glenoid vault perforation in our series produced excellent outcomes with no increased risk of revision as a result of glenoid vault perforation.
Remnant cholesterol, coronary atheroma progression and clinical events in statin-treated patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Elshazly Mohamed B , Mani Preethi , Nissen Steven , Brennan Danielle M , Clark Donald , Martin Seth , Jones Steven R , Quispe Renato , Donnellan Eoin , Nicholls Stephen J , Puri Rishi
Published: November 2019

Aim

Remnant cholesterol has been proposed to promote atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease independent of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, yet the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. We aimed to study the association of remnant cholesterol with coronary atheroma progression and clinical events.

Methods

We analyzed data from 5754 patients with coronary artery disease undergoing serial intravascular ultrasonography who were enrolled in 10 trials examining various medical therapies. Remnant cholesterol was calculated as (non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol – low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (estimated using the Hopkins–Martin equation)). Changes in percentage atheroma volume and 2-year major adverse cardiovascular events were compared across various levels of remnant cholesterol, and multivariable models were used to assess the independent relationship of remnant cholesterol with changes in percentage atheroma volume.

Results

The mean age was 58.1 ± 9.2 years, 28% were women and 96% received a statin. Percentage atheroma volume progression (changes in percentage atheroma volume > 0) occurred in a linear fashion at on-treatment remnant cholesterol levels of 25 mg/dL or greater. The highest on-treatment remnant cholesterol quartile demonstrated greater percentage atheroma volume progression (+0.53 ± 0.26 vs. –0.15 ± 0.25%, P < 0.001) and 2-year major adverse cardiovascular events (23% vs. 14%, log–rank P < 0.001) compared with the lowest. In multivariable analyses, changes in percentage atheroma volume significantly correlated with on-treatment remnant cholesterol ( P < 0.001] independent of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, C-reactive protein, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and clinical risk factors. Changes in percentage atheroma volume also significantly correlated with changes in remnant cholesterol following multivariable adjustment.

Conclusions

In statin-treated patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, remnant cholesterol was associated with coronary atheroma progression regardless of conventional lipid parameters, C-reactive protein or clinical risk factors. Higher remnant cholesterol levels also correlated with higher major adverse cardiovascular events. These data support further investigations into remnant cholesterol-lowering interventions in statin-treated patients harboring residual atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk.
Reviewing ocean governance in Asia
Authors: Roy Nalanda
Published: November 2019

Oceans are the life support system for our planet and are vital to human health. It is said that half of the oxygen we breathe is generated by our oceans. However, ocean space is becoming more globalized over time. Hence, it is essential for countries to take up a more holistic approach to ending ocean exploitation on the one hand, and also to ensuring a healthy ocean future on the other. Today, maritime cooperation is key to the management of the global commons, and ocean governance is important in establishing maritime connectivity. This article is a qualitative analysis of how the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will undertake such an initiative to promote diverse and collaborative ocean governance in Asia. The article will analyze whether ASEAN countries are ready to take up the great power game challenge, and simultaneously motivate each other to promote sustainable development of common ocean governance structures and principles in the region. Last but not the least, we will see how ASEAN (Way) will connect with global trends in order to realize its a vision of building a community conscious of its historical ties and cultural heritage to improve the overall ocean health in Southeast Asia.
Cross-Lagged Association Between Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Perceived Centrality of a Terrorist Attack
Authors: Glad Kristin Alve , Czajkowski Nikolai Olavi , Dyb Grete , Hafstad Gertrud S.
Published: November 2019

Numerous cross-sectional studies have found a positive association between level of event centrality and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the temporal course of this relationship is unclear. We aimed to investigate the concurrent and longitudinal association between event centrality and symptoms of PTSD in a trauma-exposed sample. In total, 319 survivors of the 2011 massacre on Utøya island, Norway, were interviewed 14 to 15 and 30 to 32 months after the event. A cross-lagged panel model was used to explore the association between event centrality and PTSD symptoms over time. Level of event centrality was significantly associated with concurrent PTSD symptoms at both time points. PTSD symptoms were significantly associated with prospective levels of event centrality but not vice versa. This finding indicates that the degree to which survivors perceive a terrorist attack as central to their identity may be an effect, not a cause, of their PTSD symptoms.
Thrombospondin inhibits adhesion of platelets to glass and protein- covered substrata
Authors: Lahav J
Published: November 2019

Glass and protein-covered surfaces when treated with the platelet- secreted glycoprotein thrombospondin lose their capacity to bind unstimulated platelets. In comparison to the number that bind to fibronectin-covered glass surfaces, less than 3% bind to thrombospondin- covered glass surfaces. When the fibronectin-covered surface is incubated with thrombospondin, it loses 87% of its binding capacity for platelets. The inhibitory effect of thrombospondin on platelet binding increases with increasing amounts of the adsorbed protein and reaches maximal values at 65% saturation of the adsorption of thrombospondin to the surface. Platelet spreading on the surface is also completely inhibited by thrombospondin. These data suggest that thrombospondin is nonthrombogenic and can modulate platelet adhesion to the subendothelium.
Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide combination therapy of primary chronic myelogenous leukemia blast crisis in SCID mice
Authors: Skorski T , Nieborowska-Skorska M , Wlodarski P , Zon G , Iozzo RV , Calabretta B
Published: November 2019

The proliferation of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cells and the transformation of normal hematopoietic cells by BCR-ABL appear to require the expression of a functional MYC protein, suggesting an approach to treatment of Philadelphia leukemias based on simultaneous targeting of BCR-ABL and c-MYC. To test this hypothesis, CML-blast crisis (CML-BC) primary cells were treated in vitro with bcr-abl and c- myc antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides ([S]ODNs), individually or in combination. Compared with antisense ODNs targeting of individual oncogenes, downregulation of both BCR-ABL and c-MYC by specific antisense [S]ODNs resulted in a synergistic antiproliferative effect. Colony formation of normal bone marrow cells was not affected by either treatment. To assess the therapeutic potential of multiple oncogene downregulation, SCID mice injected with CML-BC primary cells were treated systematically with equal doses of bcr-abl or c-myc antisense [S]ODNs or with a combination of both antisense [S]ODNs. Compared with mice treated with individual compounds, the disease process was significantly retarded in the group treated with both [S]ODNs as revealed by flow cytometry, clonogenic assay, and RT-PCR analysis to detect leukemic cells in mouse tissue cell suspensions. These effects correlated with a markedly increased survival of leukemic mice treated with both antisense [S]ODNs. Leukemic cells harvested from antisense [S]ODN-treated mice were sensitive to the effects of antisense [S]ODNs in vitro, suggesting that the treatment can be successfully repeated. These data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of targeting multiple cooperating oncogenes.
Association of Erythrodermic Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma, Superantigen-Positive Staphylococcus aureus, and Oligoclonal T-Cell Receptor Vβ Gene Expansion
Authors: Jackow Clotilde M. , Cather Jennifer C. , Hearne Vicki , Asano Arisa T. , Musser James M. , Duvic Madeleine
Published: November 2019

Forty-two patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, including 31 with exfoliative erythroderma or Sezary syndrome and 11 with mycosis fungoides, were studied for the occurrence of staphylococcal infection. Thirty-two of 42 (76%) had a positive staphylococcal culture from skin or blood. One half of the patients with positive cultures grew Staphylococcus aureus. This group included 11 with Sezary syndrome and 5 with rapidly enlarging mycosis fungoides plaques or tumors. All of the S aureus carried enterotoxin genes. Surprisingly, 6 of 16 strains were the same toxic shock toxin-1 (TSST-1)-positive clone, designated electrophoretic type (ET)-41. Analysis of the T-cell receptor Vβ repertoire in 14 CTCL patients found that only 4 had the expected monoclonal expansion of a specific Vβ gene, whereas 10 had oligoclonal or polyclonal expansion of several Vβ families. All patients with TSST-1+S aureus had overexpansion of Vβ 2 in blood and/or skin lesions. These studies show that S aureus containing superantigen enterotoxins are commonly found in patients with CTCL, especially individuals with erythroderma where they could exacerbate and/or perpetuate stimulate chronic T-cell expansion and cutaneous inflammation. Attention to toxigenic S aureus in CTCL patients would be expected to improve the quality of care and outcome of this patient population.
Non-del(5q) myelodysplastic syndromes–associated loci detected by SNP-array genome-wide association meta-analysis
Authors: McGraw Kathy L. , Cheng Chia-Ho , Chen Y. Ann , Hou Hsin-An , Nilsson Björn , Genovese Giulio , Cluzeau Thomas , Pellagatti Andrea , Przychodzen Bartlomiej P. , Mallo Mar , Arenillas Leonor , Mohamedali Azim , Adès Lionel , Sallman David A. , Padron Eric , Sokol Lubomir , Moreilhon Chimene , Raynaud Sophie , Tien Hwei-Fang , Boultwood Jacqueline , Ebert Benjamin L. , Sole Francesc , Fenaux Pierre , Mufti Ghulam J. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Kanetsky Peter A. , List Alan F.
Published: November 2019

Key Points

We report here the findings from the first known MDS genome-wide association study and meta-analysis identifying 8 unique loci. Genes harboring suggested MDS-associated loci, including EYA2, are innate immune regulators and may have clinical and biological relevance.
Mendelian randomisation analysis of red cell distribution width in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Ulrich Anna , Wharton John , Thayer Timothy E. , Swietlik Emilia M. , Assad Tufik R. , Desai Ankit A. , Gräf Stefan , Harbaum Lars , Humbert Marc , Morrell Nicholas W. , Nichols William C. , Soubrier Florent , Southgate Laura , Trégouët David-Alexandre , Trembath Richard C. , Brittain Evan L. , Wilkins Martin R. , Prokopenko Inga , Rhodes Christopher J.
Published: November 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease that leads to premature death from right heart failure. It is strongly associated with elevated red cell distribution width (RDW), a correlate of several iron status biomarkers. High RDW values can signal early-stage iron deficiency or iron deficiency anaemia. This study investigated whether elevated RDW is causally associated with PAH.

A two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) approach was applied to investigate whether genetic predisposition to higher levels of RDW increases the odds of developing PAH. Primary and secondary MR analyses were performed using all available genome-wide significant RDW variants (n=179) and five genome-wide significant RDW variants that actviasystemic iron status, respectively.

We confirmed the observed association between RDW and PAH (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.80–2.01) in a multicentre case–control study (cases n=642, disease controls n=15 889). The primary MR analysis was adequately powered to detect a causal effect (odds ratio) between 1.25 and 1.52 or greater based on estimates reported in the RDW genome-wide association study or from our own data. There was no evidence for a causal association between RDW and PAH in either the primary (ORcausal1.07, 95% CI 0.92–1.24) or the secondary (ORcausal1.09, 95% CI 0.77–1.54) MR analysis.

The results suggest that at least some of the observed association of RDW with PAH is secondary to disease progression. Results of iron therapeutic trials in PAH should be interpreted with caution, as any improvements observed may not be mechanistically linked to the development of PAH.
Inhaled corticosteroid use and the incidence of lung cancer in COPD
Authors: Suissa Samy , Dell'Aniello Sophie , Gonzalez Anne V. , Ernst Pierre
Published: November 2019

Background

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are suggested for potential chemoprevention of lung cancer. Several observational studies in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reported inconsistent results, either significant reductions in lung cancer incidence with ICS use or no effect. We assessed this association, using an approach that avoided biases affecting some of the studies.

Methods

A cohort of patients with COPD, new users of long-acting bronchodilators over 2000–2014, was formed using the Quebec healthcare databases, and followed until 2015 for a first diagnosis of lung cancer. A 1-year delay after cohort entry was used to avoid protopathic bias and a 1-year latency period was included after the initiation of ICS use. A time-dependent Cox regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of lung cancer associated with ICS exposure, adjusted for covariates.

Results

The cohort involved 63 276 subjects, including 63% receiving ICS, with 3743 lung cancers occurring during a mean follow-up of 5 years. The adjusted HR of lung cancer associated with any ICS exposure was 1.01 (95% CI 0.94–1.08), relative to no ICS use. The HR with longer time (>4 years) since ICS initiation was 0.92 (95% CI 0.83–1.03), while with higher mean daily ICS dose (>1000 μg fluticasone equivalents) was 1.36 (95% CI 1.03–1.81).

Conclusions

Inhaled corticosteroid use is not associated with a reduction in lung cancer incidence in patients with COPD. Observational studies reporting such reduction may have been affected by time-related biases and the inclusion of patients with asthma. The proposition of a randomised trial warrants some caution.
Correction to: CompNet: a GUI based tool for comparison of multiple biological interaction networks
Authors: Kuntal Bhusan K. , Dutta Anirban , Mande Sharmila S.
Published: November 2019

Following publication of the original article [1], the authors requested to update a link in the article. There was a server update and the hosted applications needed to move to a new web location.
Correction to: Genetic variation of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae from Brazilian field samples
Authors: Assao Viviane Sisdelli , Scatamburlo Thalita Moreira , Araujo Elaine Nery , Santos Marcus Rebouças , Pereira Carlos Eduardo Real , Guedes Roberto Maurício Carvalho , Bressan Gustavo Costa , Fietto Juliana Lopes Rangel , Chang Yung-Fu , Moreira Maria Aparecida Scatamburlo , Silva-Júnior Abelardo
Published: November 2019

Following publication of the original article [1], we have been notified that two of the author names were incomplete or incorrect.
Evaluation of free and total fluoride concentration in mouthwashes via measurement with ion-selective electrode
Authors: Reshetnyak Vladimir Yu. , Nesterova Olga V. , Admakin Oleg I. , Dobrokhotov Denis A. , Avertseva Irina N. , Dostdar Samira A. , Khakimova Dinara F.
Published: November 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to compare free fluoride concentration and total fluoride concentration in mouthwashes.

Methods

Fluorine-containing mouthwashes from various companies and manufacturers (Colgate Total Plax Classic Mint®, Colgate-Palmolive, New York, USA; Colgate Total Plax Gentle Mint®, Colgate-Palmolive, New York, USA; Colgate Total Plax Fresh Mint®, Colgate-Palmolive, New York, USA; Oral B Advantage®, Procter&Gamble, Cincinnati, USA; Reach Fresh Mint®, Johnson&Johnson, New Brunswick, USA; Foramen®, Laboratorios Foramen, Guarnizo, Spain; Lacalut Sensitive®, Dr. THEISS, Homburg, Germany; Sensodyne®, GlaxoSmithKline, London, UK; Vesna F®, Vita, Saint Petersburg, Russia; Lacalut Fresh®, Dr. THEISS, Homburg, Germany) were selected as study objects. Fluoride measurements were carried out using the fluoride selective electrode.

Results

Free fluoride:total fluoride ratio was more than 80% for six samples (Colgate Total Plax Gentle Mint® - 88%, Colgate Total Plax Fresh Mint® - 99%, Oral B Advantage® - 92%, Reach Fresh Mint® - 92 and 89% for the mouthwash of another batch, Lacalut Sensitive® - 94%) and less than 63% for three samples (Colgate Total Plax Classic Mint® - 56%, Foramen® - 62%, Vesna F® - 61%). Two samples had more than 70% and less than 80% of unbound fluoride, respectively (Sensodyne® - 77%, another batch of Oral B Advantage® mouthwash - 74%). Rinse containing sodium monofluorophosphate (Na2PO3F) (Vesna F®) had more than 50% of free fluoride, while the rinse containing amine fluoride (AmF) (Lacalut Sensitive®) had 94%. The difference in the free fluoride:total fluoride ratio can be explained by binding of fluoride ions by components contained in mouthwashes, such as coloring agents and polymeric compounds. The lowest concentration of free fluoride ions (0.000093 mol/L) was observed for aluminum fluoride (AlF3) rinse (Lacalut Fresh®), while the total fluoride amount was not determined due to possible generation of strong fluoride complexes. This implies that fluoride ions will not be uptaken by tooth tissue and may even be washed away from it, compromising the efficacy of mouthwashes.

Conclusions

The differences in free fluoride: total fluoride ratio between analyzed mouthwashes reveal a need to develop a method for evaluation of free fluorides in mouthwashes for proper updating of national and international guidelines.
Chest wall lymph node metastasis from follicular thyroid carcinoma: a rare case report
Authors: Li Taolang , Ma Zhiyuan , Lu Chengli , Zhou Quanzhong , Feng Zelong , Wu Xinglong , Luo Yi , Li Dan , Cheng Xiaoming , Liu Xuemei
Published: November 2019

Background

Distant metastases from follicular thyroid carcinoma are mainly hematogenous and are commonly observed in the lungs and bones. Other rare sites are the parotid gland, skin, brain, ovary, adrenal gland, kidney, pancreas and breast, with chest wall lymph node metastasis being even more rare.

Case presentation

Over the past 10 years, three surgeries were performed on a 69-year-old women with a history of follicular thyroid cancer and its metastatic lesions. The patient presented with a 3-month history of masses in the left chest. She underwent detailed examination of the chest wall tumors, and surgery was then performed to resect all of the tumors. Based on the histopathology, these lymph nodes were confirmed to harbor metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma.

Conclusion

This study reports the first case of follicular thyroid carcinoma metastasis to the chest wall lymph node.
LncRNA MAGI2-AS3 is involved in cervical squamous cell carcinoma development through CDK6 up-regulation
Authors: Liu Qifang , Liu Shuang , Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Jin , Liu Kuiran
Published: November 2019

Background

It has been reported that lncRNA MAGI2-AS3 can promote many types of cancer, such as breast cancer and bladder cancer, by regulating cell behaviors, such a proliferation, invasion, and migration. However, its role in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is unclear. This study aims to investigate the role of MAGI2-AS3 in CSCC.

Methods

Sixty-four CSCC patients (36 to 68 years, 46.3 ± 5.1 years) out of 136 CSCC patients admitted by Shengjing hospital affiliated to China Medical University from June 2010 to October 2013 were included in the present study. Among the 64 enrolled patients, 20 were HPV-16 positive cases, 24 were HPV-18 positive cases and 20 were HPV negative. CSCC and non-tumor biopsies from CSCC patients as well as C-33A cell lines were used. Cells were transfected with MAGI2-AS3 and CDK6 expression vectors as well as with MAGI2-AS3 siRNA to analyze gene interactions. Cell cycle analysis was performed to analyze the effects of transfections on cell cycle progression. qPCR and western blot were applied to analyze gene expression. Paired t-test and ANOVA (one-way) combined with Tukey test were used for data comparisons. Survival analysis was performed by plotting and comparing survival curves.

Results

qRT-PCR results showed that CDK6 and MAGI2-AS3 were both up-regulated in CSCC and positively correlated with each other. MAGI2-AS3 and CDK6 expression was not significantly affected by HPV infections. High levels of MAGI2-AS3 were associated with the poor survival of CSCC patients. In CSCC cells, MAGI2-AS3 over-expression up-regulated CDK6, while MAGI2-AS3 siRNA down-regulated CDK6. In CCK-8 assay, MAGI2-AS3 and CDK6 over-expression led to increased proliferation rate of CSCC cells by reducing CDK6 levels, while MAGI2-AS3 siRNA didn’t. In addition, CDK6 over-expression attenuated the effect of MAGI2-AS3 siRNA silencing.

Conclusions

In conclusion, MAGI2-AS3 promoted CSCC cell proliferation by up-regulating CDK6.
Body composition indices in a sample of female adolescents with postural deformity: a case control study
Authors: Golalizadeh Dina , Toopchizadeh Vahideh , Fasaie Negar , Dolatkhah Neda
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Normal posture is considered to be an indicative of good musculoskeletal health in school aged adolescents. Little is known about the body composition indices in relation with postural deformities in adolescents. The aim of this study was to assess relation of body composition analysis indices with postural deformities in a sample of female high school adolescents.

Results

In this case–control study, 37 eligible female adolescents with any postural deformities and 33 normal posture subjects enrolled in the study by random cluster sampling. Body composition analysis performed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method to quantity body fat mass (BFM), soft lean mass (SLM) and lean body mass (LBM). The binary logistic regressions were performed to evaluate the associations of body composition indices which were significantly different between two groups at significance level of 0.05 with postural disorders in the two groups. There was no significant difference between subjects with postural disorders with their normal controls concerning demographic variables. We observed an inverse association between postural deformity risk and LBM (OR = 0.803; 95% CI 0.690–0.934) and SLM (OR = 0.774; 95% CI 0.649–0.922) after adjusting the analysis by height of participants.
Molecular and immune correlates of TIM-3 (HAVCR2) and galectin 9 (LGALS9) mRNA expression and DNA methylation in melanoma
Authors: Holderried Tobias A. W. , de Vos Luka , Bawden Emma Grace , Vogt Timo J. , Dietrich Joern , Zarbl Romina , Bootz Friedrich , Kristiansen Glen , Brossart Peter , Landsberg Jennifer , Dietrich Dimo
Published: November 2019

Background

The T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 receptor TIM-3 (also known as hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 2, encoded by HAVCR2) and its ligand galectin 9 (LGALS9) are promising targets for immune checkpoint inhibition immunotherapies. However, little is known about epigenetic regulation of the encoding genes. This study aimed to investigate the association of TIM-3 and LGALS9 DNA methylation with gene expression, patients’ survival, as well as molecular and immune correlates in malignant melanoma.

Results

Methylation of all six TIM-3 CpGs correlated significantly with TIM-3 mRNA levels (P ≤ 0.05). A strong inverse correlation (Spearman’s ρ = − 0.49) was found in promoter regions, while a strong positive correlation (ρ = 0.63) was present in the gene body of TIM-3. High TIM-3 mRNA expression (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.81–0.97], P = 0.007) was significantly associated with better overall survival. Seven of the eight LGALS9 CpG sites correlated significantly with LGALS9 mRNA levels (P ≤ 0.003). Methylation at five CpG sites showed a strong inverse correlation (Spearman’s ρ = − 0.67) and at two sites a weak positive correlation (Spearman’s ρ = 0.15). High LGALS9 mRNA expression was significantly associated with increased overall survival (HR = 0.83, 95%CI [0.75–0.93], P = 0.001). In addition, we found significant correlations between TIM-3 and LGALS9 methylation and mRNA expression with immune cell infiltrates and significant differences among distinct immune cell subsets.

Conclusions

Our study points toward an epigenetic regulation of TIM-3 and LGALS9 via DNA methylation and might provide an avenue for the development of a predictive biomarker for response to immune checkpoint blockade.
Enhanced serum immunoglobulin G clearance in myotonic dystrophy-associated hypogammaglobulinemia: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Sasson Sarah C. , Corbett Alastair , McLachlan Andrew J. , Chen R. , Adelstein S. A. , Riminton Sean , Limaye Sandhya
Published: November 2019

Background

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by muscle weakness, myotonia, cataracts, and cardiac conduction defects; it is associated with expansions of cytosine-thymine-guanine repeats in the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase. Hypogammaglobulinemia is a lesser known association of myotonic dystrophy type 1 and the underlying pathogenesis of immunoglobulin G depletion remains unclear.

Case presentation

Here we report a kindred of two members (a 62-year-old white woman and a 30-year-old white man; mother and son) with myotonic dystrophy type 1-associated hypogammaglobulinemia associated with altered intravenous immunoglobulin elimination kinetics and reduced half-life. There was no history of systemic immunosuppression or renal or gastrointestinal protein loss in either patient, and no underlying case for a secondary immunodeficiency could be found. One patient required fortnightly intravenous immunoglobulin to maintain adequate trough immunoglobulin G levels.

Conclusions

Ongoing study of myotonic dystrophy type 1-associated hypogammaglobulinemia using contemporary tools of genomic medicine may help to further delineate the pathogenesis of this entity.
Standard coagulation assays alone are not sufficient to exclude surgically relevant rivaroxaban plasma concentrations
Authors: Kaserer Alexander , Schedler Andreas , Seifert Burkhardt , Spahn Donat R. , Studt Jan-Dirk , Stein Philipp
Published: November 2019

Background

While mainly larger hospitals have introduced routine anti-Xa assays for rivaroxaban (RXA), these are not readily available to smaller hospitals often relying on routine coagulation tests such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).

The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of RXA plasma concentration on the standard coagulation tests PT (Quick test and INR) and aPTT in a large group of real-life patients. We further assessed whether normal results of these standard coagulation assays are sufficient to exclude surgically relevant RXA plasma concentration, defined as > 50 mcg/l.

Methods

This retrospective study included all patients between 2012 and 2016 where anti-Xa (calibrated for RXA), PT (Quick test and INR), and/or aPTT were determined from the same sample. PT is expressed as Quick value (% of normal plasma pool). In total, 1027 measurements in 622 patients were eligible for analysis: 752 measurements of 505 patients for Quick/INR and 594 measurements of 417 patients for aPTT.

Results

A moderate correlation of PT/Quick (Pearson's correlation coefficient − 0.59; p < 0.001), INR (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.5; p < 0.001), and aPTT (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.53; p < 0.001) with RXA plasma concentration was observed. However, in 50% of all samples with a normal PT/Quick, in 25% of all samples with a normal INR and in 80% of all samples with a normal aPTT residual RXA plasma concentration was surgically relevant.

Conclusion

Although a moderate correlation of RXA plasma concentration with PT/Quick, INR, and aPTT was observed, standard coagulation assays are not sufficient to exclude surgically relevant RXA plasma concentrations.
Efficacy of NEMO-binding domain peptide used to treat experimental osteomyelitis caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an in-vivo study
Authors: Xu Chang-Peng , Chen Ya , Sun Hong-Tao , Cui Zhuang , Yang Ya-Jun , Huang Lei , Yu Bin , Wang Fa-Zheng , Yang Qing-Po , Qi Yong
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Treatment of chronic osteomyelitis (bone infection) remains a clinical challenge. Our previous study had demonstrated that NEMO-binding domain (NBD) peptide effectively ameliorates the inhibition of osteoblast differentiation by TNF-α in vitro. In this work, NBD peptide was evaluated in vivo for treating chronic osteomyelitis induced by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a rabbit model.

Methods

Tibial osteomyelitis was induced in 50 New Zealand white rabbits by tibial canal inoculation of MRSA strain. After 3 weeks, 45 rabbits with osteomyelitis were randomly divided into four groups that correspondingly received the following interventions: 1) Control group (9 rabbits, no treatment); 2) Van group (12 rabbits, debridement and parenteral treatment with vancomycin); 3) NBD + Van group (12 rabbits, debridement and local NBD peptide injection, plus parenteral treatment with vancomycin); 4) NBD group (12 rabbits, debridement and local NBD peptide injection). Blood samples were collected weekly for the measurement of leucocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The rabbits in all four groups were sacrificed 6 weeks after debridement; the anti-infective efficacy was evaluated by radiological, histological, and microbiological examination, and promotion of bone remodeling was quantified by micro-CT using the newly formed bone.

Results

Except two rabbits in the Control group and one in the NBD group that died from severe infection before the end point, the remaining 42 animals (7, 12, 12, 11 in the Control, Van, NBD + Van, and NBD group respectively) were sacrificed 6 weeks after debridement. In general, there was no significant difference in the leucocyte count, and ESR and CRP levels, although there were fluctuations throughout the follow-up period after debridement. MRSA was still detectable in bone tissue samples of all animals. Interestingly, treatment with NBD peptide plus vancomycin significantly reduced radiological and histological severity scores compared to that in other groups. The best therapeutic efficacy in bone defect repair was observed in the NBD peptide + Van group.

Conclusions

In a model of osteomyelitis induced by MRSA, despite the failure in demonstrating antibacterial effectiveness of NBD peptide in vivo, the results suggest antibiotics in conjunction with NBD peptide to possibly have promising therapeutic potential in osteomyelitis.