bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritabilities for the puppy weight at birth in Labrador retrievers
Authors: Schelling Claude , Gaillard Claude , Russenberger Jane , Moseley Lou , Dolf Gaudenz
Published: November 2019

Background

Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers.

Results

Of the 1138 Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September 2001 and February 2018, 1013 were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates (Model 1) and one with covariates (Model 2). Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0.21 and 0.17 for the direct heritabilities, 0.22 and 0.22 for the maternal additive genetic heritabilities, 0.07 and 0.07 for the maternal permanent environmental proportions, and 0.14 and 0.08 for the environmental proportion of the litter.

Conclusions

In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating.
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) antibodies in animal sera – occurrence in goat flocks in Germany, longevity and ability to recall immunological information after more than six years
Authors: Klaus Christine , Ziegler Ute , Hoffmann Donata , Press Franziska , Fast Christine , Beer Martin
Published: November 2019

Background

TBE is an important tick-borne viral zoonosis in Europe and some parts of Asia. Humans can become infected by tick bite and in some cases also by consumption of nonpasteurized raw milk and raw milk products from ruminants. Serological investigations of milking flocks can help to assess the risk of TBEV infection for humans. 735 blood samples from 50 goat flocks from four federal states of Germany were tested by TBEV-VNT to assess a potential risk for TBEV infection.

There are some gaps in the knowledge about immunity in animals, for example with regard to the longevity of TBEV immunity. Two goats and two sheep were immunized and TBEV antibody titers could be detected for up to 7 years.

Furthermore, nothing is known about a possible long-lasting immunological memory that could quickly be reactivated by an additional contact to TBEV. Seven years after the first immunization two goats and two sheep as well as two naïve goats and two sheep were boostered and TBEV antibody titers followed.

Results

Only one sample in each of the three states was TBEV-antibody positive (VNT), albeit with low titers. However, in Baden-Württemberg seven samples were positive, among them four goats of the same flock.

TBEV-antibody positive titers were detected in goats for up to 6 years and 10 months, in sheep for up to 4 years and 7 months.

Seven years after immunization a clear immunological recall occurred in response to administration of one dose of vaccine in two goats and two sheep.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that in the tested flocks the risk of an alimentary TBEV infection was low. However, in one single flock a considerably higher risk must be assumed.

Antibody titers in goats and sheep can last very long after contact to TBEV, albeit at a low level. This should be taken into consideration in cases where the risk of an alimentary infection is assessed in a flock by serological investigations.

The immunological recall gives rise to the suspicion that the immunological memory after a first contact to TBEV lasts for many years, probably lifelong.
Synthetic surfactant with a recombinant surfactant protein C analogue improves lung function and attenuates inflammation in a model of acute respiratory distress syndrome in adult rabbits
Authors: Zebialowicz Ahlström J. , Massaro F. , Mikolka P. , Feinstein R. , Perchiazzi G. , Basabe-Burgos O. , Curstedt T. , Larsson A. , Johansson J. , Rising A.
Published: November 2019

Aim

In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) damaged alveolar epithelium, leakage of plasma proteins into the alveolar space and inactivation of pulmonary surfactant lead to respiratory dysfunction. Lung function could potentially be restored with exogenous surfactant therapy, but clinical trials have so far been disappointing. These negative results may be explained by inactivation and/or too low doses of the administered surfactant. Surfactant based on a recombinant surfactant protein C analogue (rSP-C33Leu) is easy to produce and in this study we compared its effects on lung function and inflammation with a commercial surfactant preparation in an adult rabbit model of ARDS.

Methods

ARDS was induced in adult New Zealand rabbits by mild lung-lavages followed by injurious ventilation (VT 20 m/kg body weight) until P/F ratio < 26.7 kPa. The animals were treated with two intratracheal boluses of 2.5 mL/kg of 2% rSP-C33Leu in DPPC/egg PC/POPG, 50:40:10 or poractant alfa (Curosurf®), both surfactants containing 80 mg phospholipids/mL, or air as control. The animals were subsequently ventilated (VT 8–9 m/kg body weight) for an additional 3 h and lung function parameters were recorded. Histological appearance of the lungs, degree of lung oedema and levels of the cytokines TNFα IL-6 and IL-8 in lung homogenates were evaluated.

Results

Both surfactant preparations improved lung function vs. the control group and also reduced inflammation scores, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and formation of lung oedema to similar degrees. Poractant alfa improved compliance at 1 h, P/F ratio and PaO2 at 1.5 h compared to rSP-C33Leu surfactant.

Conclusion

This study indicates that treatment of experimental ARDS with synthetic lung surfactant based on rSP-C33Leu improves lung function and attenuates inflammation.
Correction to: Endometrium metabolomic profiling reveals potential biomarkers for diagnosis of endometriosis at minimal-mild stages
Authors: Li Jingjie , Guan Lihuan , Zhang Huizhen , Gao Yue , Sun Jiahong , Gong Xiao , Li Dongshun , Chen Pan , Liang Xiaoyan , Huang Min , Bi Huichang
Published: November 2019

The authors regret that the incorrect identification of “omega-3 arachidonic acid” published in the original manuscript [1].
The impacts of training pathways and experiences during intern year on doctor emigration from Ireland
Authors: Cronin Frances , Clarke Nicholas , Hendrick Louise , Conroy Ronan , Brugha Ruairi
Published: November 2019

Background

Emigration of domestically-trained health professionals is widespread, including in Ireland which has the highest rate of medical graduates in the OECD. Ireland’s failure to retain graduates necessitates high levels of international recruitment. This study aimed to identify factors associated with recently graduated doctors’ intention to migrate, focusing on their work experiences during the mandatory post-graduation year, their wellbeing, and their perceptions of postgraduate training in Ireland.

Methods

A baseline survey was administered online to all final year students in Ireland’s six medical schools. A subsequent sweep surveyed those who consented to follow-up (n = 483) during the final month of first year of practice.

Results

Of the 232 respondents (48% response rate), 210 (94%) were Irish passport holders. Of these, only 36% intended to remain in Ireland after their internship, 57% intended to leave but return later, and 7% intended to leave permanently. A strong predictor of intention was study pathway: 60% of Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) graduates and 25% of Direct Entry Medicine (DEM) graduates intended to remain in Ireland. Equal proportions intended to leave permanently (8% DEM, 6% GEM). Being a GEM graduate significantly reduced the likelihood of leaving to return (relative risk ratio (RRR) 0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.11–0.39), p < 0.001).

When adjusted for study pathway, a negative experience as an intern increased the likelihood of leaving to return (RRR 1.16 CI (1.00–1.34), p = 0.043) and leaving permanently (1.54 (1.15–2.04), p = 0.003). Similarly, experience of callousness was associated with leaving to return (1.23 (1.03–1.46), p = 0.023) and leaving permanently (1.77 (1.24–2.53), p = 0.002), as was burnout with leaving permanently (1.57 (1.08–2.27), p = 0.017). Those planning to specialise in Medicine versus General Practice were more likely to leave and return (3.01 (1.09–8.34), p = 0.034). Those with negative perceptions of training in Ireland were more likely to leave and return (1.16 (1.01–1.34), p = 0.037); a positive perception reduced the likelihood of leaving permanently (0.50 (0.26–0.94), p = 0.032).

Conclusions

Increasing GEM training places might improve Ireland’s retention of domestically-trained doctors, reducing reliance on non-EU-trained doctors. However, improvements in the working experiences, perceptions of training, and protection of wellbeing are essential for retaining this highly sought-after and geographically mobile cohort.
The link between chronic pain and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cao Song , Fisher Daniel W. , Yu Tain , Dong Hongxin
Published: November 2019

Chronic pain often occurs in the elderly, particularly in the patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although studies indicate that chronic pain correlates with cognitive decline, it is unclear whether chronic pain accelerates AD pathogenesis. In this review, we provide evidence that supports a link between chronic pain and AD and discuss potential mechanisms underlying this connection based on currently available literature from human and animal studies. Specifically, we describe two intertwined processes, locus coeruleus noradrenergic system dysfunction and neuroinflammation resulting from microglial pro-inflammatory activation in brain areas mediating the affective component of pain and cognition that have been found to influence both chronic pain and AD. These represent a pathological overlap that likely leads chronic pain to accelerate AD pathogenesis. Further, we discuss potential therapeutic interventions targeting noradrenergic dysfunction and microglial activation that may improve patient outcomes for those with chronic pain and AD.
mTOR signaling in Brown and Beige adipocytes: implications for thermogenesis and obesity
Authors: Ye Yuqing , Liu Hailan , Zhang Feng , Hu Fang
Published: November 2019

Brown and beige adipocytes are mainly responsible for nonshivering thermogenesis or heat production, despite the fact that they have distinguished features in distribution, developmental origin, and functional activation. As a nutrient sensor and critical regulator of energy metabolism, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) also plays an important role in the development and functional maintenance of adipocytes. While the recent studies support the notion that mTOR (mTORC1 and mTORC2) related signaling pathways are of great significance for thermogenesis and the development of brown and beige adipocytes, the exact roles of mTOR in heat production are controversial. The similarities and disparities in terms of thermogenesis might be ascribed to the use of different animal models and experimental systems, distinct features of brown and beige adipocytes, and the complexity of regulatory networks of mTORC1 and mTORC2 in energy metabolism.
Pension and state funds dominating biomedical R&D investment: fiduciary duty and public health
Authors: Roller Slavek
Published: November 2019

Background

Who benefits from the commercial biomedical research and development (R&D)? Patients-consumers and investors-shareholders have traditionally been viewed as two distinct groups with conflicting interests: shareholders seek maximum profits, patients - maximum clinical benefit. However, what happens when patients are the shareholders? With billions of dollars of public risk capital channeled into the drug development industry, analysing the complex financial architecture and the market for corporate control is essential for understanding industry’s characteristics, such as pricing strategies or R&D priorities.

Results

Adding investments by governmentally-mandated retirement schemes, central and promotional banks, and sovereign wealth funds to tax-derived governmental financing shows that the majority of biomedical R&D funding is public in origin. Despite this, even in the high-income countries patients can be denied access to effective treatments due to their high cost. Since these costs are set by the drug development firms that are owned in substantial part by the retirement accounts of said patients, the complex financial architecture of biomedical R&D may be inconsistent with the objectives of the ultimate beneficiaries.

Conclusions

The divergence in economic and public health performance of the drug development industry is resultant from its financial underwriting by enormously expanded pension schemes, governmentally mandated to represent the interests of “captive” beneficiaries, as well as similar policymaker-designed funding flows, whose standards of transparency, accountability and representation are substantially lower than that of governments themselves. Strengthening those elements of institutional design and thus ensuring active responsible shareholding in the interest of the patients-savers is an under-utilised, but potentially high-impact opportunity for advancing public health.
Extensive aortic surgery in acute aortic dissection type A on outcome – insights from 25 years single center experience
Authors: Dib Bashar , Seppelt Philipp Christian , Arif Rawa , Weymann Alexander , Veres Gábor , Schmack Bastian , Beller Carsten J. , Ruhparwar Arjang , Karck Matthias , Kallenbach Klaus
Published: November 2019

Background

This single center study compares the different surgical techniques used in the treatment of acute aortic dissection type A (AADA) analyzing the influence of the extent of the surgical approach on outcome.

Methods

From 1988 to 2012, 407 patients were operated for AADA. The cohort was divided into subgroups according to the surgical approach. These groups were compared with the supracommissural replacement group (SCR; n = 141). Groups included aortic valve sparing techniques (AVS; n = 29), Composite replacement (COMP; n = 119), COMP with total arch replacement (COMP+TAR; n = 27) and SCR with TAR (n = 75).

Results

Compared to SCR alone, operation (p = 0.005), bypass-, cross-clamp and circulatory arrest times were longer in SCR + TAR (all p < 0.001). Moreover, operation, bypass and cross clamp times were longer in COMP+TAR (p = 0.003, p = 0.002 and p < 0.001 respectively). COMP alone and AVS required longer cross-clamp time, too (p < 0,001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Overall 30-day mortality was 21% with the observed lowest rate after AVS (14%, SCR 18%, COMP 25%) but differences in 30-day mortality were not statistically significant. The estimated 10-year survival was 42%, especially AVS demonstrated a good 10-year survival (69%). David technique was superior to Yacoub technique concerning incidence of redo interventions (p = 0.036). Risk factors for early mortality included age, circulatory arrest, general malperfusion, bypass and operation time. Circulatory arrest per se was revealed as risk factor for long-term survival.

Conclusions

Within our single center retrospective study concomitant aortic root repair or aortic arch replacement for AADA demonstrated acceptable early and long-term survival. Circulatory arrest, long bypass and operation times per se might be important risk factors for early mortality. AVS techniques can be performed safely and have good outcomes in acute aortic dissection repair.
Sonographic features of the testicular adrenal rests tumors in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a single-center experience and literature review
Authors: Ma Li , Xia Yu , Wang Linlin , Liu Ruifeng , Huang Xuepei , Ye Tiantian , Zhang Li , Zhu Qingli , Li Jianchu , Jiang Yuxin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Testicular adrenal rests tumor (TART) is a rare kind of benign tumor in the testis. It usually occurred secondary to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a hormonal disorder caused by hydroxylase deficiency. As the first-line examination method, ultrasound provides crucial diagnostic information for TART, although misdiagnosis to malignancy is quite common because of its rare prevalence. We aimed to summarize the sonographic manifestations of TART to improve the diagnostic accuracy and specificity.

Methods

Eight CAH patients with TART identified by ultrasound in our medical center were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and hormonal profile, semen analysis and treatment choices were collected. Sonographic examinations were performed at the first evaluation and interpreted by experienced radiologists individually. All patients received regular follow-up, and 5 patients undertook repeated scrotal ultrasound. A literature review of TART in CAH patients was conducted, with 123 patients from 23 articles since 1990 included.

Results

A total of 8 patients aged between 4 to 27 years old were enrolled. 7 of 8 (87.5%) patients exhibited bilateral testicular lesions. The sizes of the testicular lesions were between 0.18 ml to 5.68 ml, and all showed a clear boundary. 10/15 (66.7%) lesions were homogenously hypoechoic, 4/15 (26.7%) were heterogeneously iso-hypoechoic, and 1/15 (6.7%) were homogenously isoechoic. 10/15 (66.7%) lesions were hyper-vascular. The longitudinal follow-up of 5 patients showed testicular lesions changed in terms of size, echogenicity, and vascularity after steroid treatment. A potential correlation may exist between ACTH levels and tumor size (p = 0.066). From the literature review, 100/123 (81%) patients got bilateral lesions, and 95% of them were located near the mediastinum. 80/103 (78%) lesions exhibited a clear boundary, and predominant lesions (74%) were hypoechogenic. Vascularity was with great diversity. Seventy-nine lesions of 44 patients were followed-up by scrotal ultrasound, among which 29 (37%) remained unchanged, 29(37%) shrank, and 21(27%) disappeared.

Conclusions

Key sonographic characteristics of TART are: resembled lesions on both testes, located near the mediastinum, clear boundary, and changed in size or echogenicity after steroid treatment. These features can help radiologists to make an accurate diagnosis of TART.
Effect of intraoperative paravertebral or intravenous lidocaine versus control during lung resection surgery on postoperative complications: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: De la Gala Francisco , Piñeiro Patricia , Reyes Almudena , Simón Carlos , Vara Elena , Rancan Lisa , Huerta Luis Javier , Gonzalez Guillermo , Benito Carmen , Muñoz Marta , Grande Pilar , Paredes Sergio D. , Aznar Pablo Tomas , Perez Alvaro , Martinez David , Higuero Fernando , Sanz David , De Miguel Juan Pedro , Cruz Patricia , Olmedilla Luis , Lopez Gil Elena , Duque Patricia , Sanchez-Pedrosa Guillermo , Valle Mayte , Garutti Ignacio
Published: November 2019

Background

Use of minimally invasive surgical techniques for lung resection surgery (LRS), such as video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS), has increased in recent years. However, there is little information about the best anesthetic technique in this context. This surgical approach is associated with a lower intensity of postoperative pain, and its use has been proposed in programs for enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). This study compares the severity of postoperative complications in patients undergoing LRS who have received lidocaine intraoperatively either intravenously or via paravertebral administration versus saline.

Methods/design

We will conduct a single-center randomized controlled trial involving 153 patients undergoing LRS through a thoracoscopic approach. The patients will be randomly assigned to one of the following study groups: intravenous lidocaine with more paravertebral thoracic (PVT) saline, PVT lidocaine with more intravenous saline, or intravenous remifentanil with more PVT saline. The primary outcome will be the comparison of the postoperative course through Clavien-Dindo classification. Furthermore, we will compare the perioperative pulmonary and systemic inflammatory response by monitoring biomarkers in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood, as well as postoperative analgesic consumption between the three groups of patients. We will use an ANOVA to compare quantitative variables and a chi-squared test to compare qualitative variables.

Discussion

The development of less invasive surgical techniques means that anesthesiologists must adapt their perioperative management protocols and look for anesthetic techniques that provide good analgesic quality and allow rapid rehabilitation of the patient, as proposed in the ERAS protocols. The administration of a continuous infusion of intravenous lidocaine has proven to be useful and safe for the management of other types of surgery, as demonstrated in colorectal cancer. We want to know whether the continuous administration of lidocaine by a paravertebral route can be substituted with the intravenous administration of this local anesthetic in a safe and effective way while avoiding the risks inherent in the use of regional anesthetic techniques. In this way, this technique could be used in a safe and effective way in ERAS programs for pulmonary resection.

Trial registration

EudraCT, 2016–004271-52; ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT03905837. Protocol number IGGFGG-2016 version 4.0, 27th April 2017.
Serum lysophosphatidylcholines to phosphatidylcholines ratio is associated with symptomatic responders to symptomatic drugs in knee osteoarthritis patients
Authors: Zhai Guangju , Pelletier Jean-Pierre , Liu Ming , Randell Edward W. , Rahman Proton , Martel-Pelletier Johanne
Published: November 2019

Background

Identification of the optimal treatment for a given patient is of paramount importance. This is of particular relevance in osteoarthritis (OA) because of the high prevalence of the disease, extensive heterogeneity of the disease, and need for long-term treatment. The aim of the study was to examine whether serum lysophosphatidylcholines (lysoPCs) to phosphatidylcholines (PCs) ratio can predict clinical response to licofelone and naproxen treatments in symptomatic knee OA patients.

Methods

One hundred fifty-eight OA patients who completed the study according to protocol (ATP) of a previous 24-month clinical trial cohort comparing the effect of licofelone vs. naproxen in symptomatic knee OA patients were included. Symptomatic responses to either treatments were classified according to the OARSI-OMERACT criteria based on the WOMAC scores at 24 months. Total concentrations of PCs and lysoPCs were measured in the serum samples collected before the initiation of the treatments, and the lysoPCs to PCs ratio was calculated. Student’s t test was utilized to compare the difference in the ratio of lysoPCs to PCs between the symptomatic responders and non-responders. Logistic regression was utilized to adjust for the potential confounders. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify the optimal cutoff of the ratio for prediction.

Results

Data showed that 61.4% of the patients symptomatically responded to licofelone and naproxen and 38.6% were deemed as therapeutic failures (non-responders). There was no difference in responders between licofelone and naproxen (p = 0.87). Responders had a significantly higher lysoPCs to PCs ratio than non-responders (0.097 ± 0.003 vs. 0.085 ± 0.003; p = 0.006). Patients with a ratio greater than the optimal cutoff of 0.088 had 2.93 times more likely to respond to licofelone and naproxen (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Serum lysoPCs to PCs ratio is a marker for response to licofelone and naproxen and may aid in the personalized treatment to knee OA.
Three novel variants in the arylsulfatase A (ARSA) gene in patients with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD)
Authors: Hettiarachchi D. , Dissanayake V. H. W.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To describe the genetic variants in the ARSA gene in Sri Lankan patients with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD). As the variant profile of MLD in the Sri Lankan population is currently unknown.

Results

Twenty patients from eighteen Sri Lankan families were screened for ARSA gene mutations. We found 13 different genetic variants of these three were novel. The three novel variants were p.Asp281Asn, p.Asp283Asn, p.Ala344Asp. Seven patients out of 20 were also positive for the pseudodeficiency (PD) allele c.1049A>G (p.Asn350Ser). This is the first report to describe the molecular genetic variants of Sri Lankan patients with MLD.
Blood donors’ knowledge and attitude towards blood donation at North Gondar district blood bank, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Enawgaw Bamlaku , Yalew Aregawi , Shiferaw Elias
Published: November 2019

Objective

Blood transfusion saves millions of lives. But, the need and the actual number of donations are not balanced in Ethiopia. The actual reason is not clearly assessed; however, level of knowledge and attitude may be the main contributing factors. Thus, the current study aimed to assess blood donors’ knowledge and attitude towards blood donation at North Gondar district blood bank.

Results

Of 401 blood donors, 142 (35.4%) and 379 (94.5%) were had adequate knowledge and positive attitude towards blood donation, respectively. About 343 (85.5%) of study participants had no previous experience of blood donation. Perceptions of fear of pain, medically unfitness to donate and lack of information on when, where and how to donate blood were mentioned as a reason for not donating blood. Educational status and residence were significantly associated with knowledge of blood donors. On the other hand, participants with secondary and higher education were more likely to have good attitude towards blood donation. Thus, blood banks should design strategies for health education about blood donation and transfusion.
Gender differences in asthma perception and its impact on quality of life: a post hoc analysis of the PROXIMA (Patient Reported Outcomes and Xolair® In the Management of Asthma) study
Authors:   the PROXIMA study centers, Colombo Delia , Zagni Emanuela , Ferri Fabio , Canonica Giorgio Walter
Published: November 2019

Background

Gender differences in asthma perception and control have been reported. The PROXIMA observational study assessed these outcomes in a cohort of Italian severe allergic asthma (SAA) patients. This post hoc analysis of the PROXIMA results was aimed at assessing gender differences in SAA in a real-world setting, focusing on disease perception and impact on quality of life (QoL).

Methods

The PROXIMA study was an observational, multicenter study, consisting of a cross-sectional and a prospective longitudinal phase, including adult outpatients diagnosed with SAA at step 4 requiring a therapeutic step-up. Patients on omalizumab treatment at baseline were included in the 12-month longitudinal phase. Disease control was assessed by the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score, patients’ disease perception by the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), and QoL by the EuroQoL five-dimensional three-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-3 L) at baseline and after 6 and 12 months. Two regression models were used to evaluate the association between gender and BIPQ total score and EQ-5D-3L score, respectively.

Results

357 patients (65% females) were analyzed for the cross-sectional phase and 99 (62.6% females) for the longitudinal phase. The prevalence of perennial and seasonal aeroallergens was similar between genders. ACQ score decreased similarly during omalizumab treatment at 6 and 12 months in both genders; no gender differences were observed in control rates. Asthma perception was worse among females at all study visits reaching statistical significance at 12 months (mean (SD) B-IPQ total score 41.8 (9.4) vs 35.6 (12.0); T test p-value (males vs females) < 0.05). Statistically significant gender differences were observed for some specific items, with males reporting less symptom experience, concern about the disease, and emotional impact at 12-months. The results of the multivariate regression model for repeated measures showed that overall treatment with omalizumab improved disease perception overtime regardless from gender. Males reported a significantly better QoL compared to females at both 6 and 12 months.

Conclusions

In this real-world setting, females confirmed to have a worse perception of asthma, feel it as more symptomatic and suffer a greater impact on their QoL, even though having similar baseline severity and obtaining similar level of control.
Reply to “Missed opportunities in large scale comparison of QSAR and conformal prediction methods and their applications in drug discovery”
Authors: Bosc Nicolas , Atkinson Francis , Félix Eloy , Gaulton Anna , Hersey Anne , Leach Andrew R.
Published: November 2019

In response to Krstajic’s letter to the editor concerning our published paper, we here take the opportunity to reply, to re-iterate that no errors in our work were identified, to provide further details, and to re-emphasise the outputs of our study. Moreover, we highlight that all of the data are freely available for the wider scientific community (including the aforementioned correspondent) to undertake follow-on studies and comparisons.
Sign-constancy of Green’s functions for impulsive nonlocal boundary value problems
Authors: Domoshnitsky A. , Mizgireva Iu.
Published: November 2019

We consider the following second order impulsive differential equation with delays:
$$ \textstyle\begin{cases} (Lx)(t)\equiv x''(t)+\sum_{j=1}^{p} a_{j}(t) x'(t-\tau _{j}(t)) + \sum_{j=1}^{p} b_{j}(t) x(t-\theta _{j}(t)) = f(t), \quad t \in [0, \omega ], \\ x(t_{k})=\gamma _{k} x(t_{k}-0), \quad\quad x'(t_{k})=\delta _{k} x'(t_{k}-0), \quad k=1,2,\ldots,r. \end{cases} $${(Lx)(t)≡x″(t)+∑j=1paj(t)x′(t−τj(t))+∑j=1pbj(t)x(t−θj(t))=f(t),t∈[0,ω],x(tk)=γkx(tk−0),x′(tk)=δkx′(tk−0),k=1,2,…,r.

In this paper we consider sufficient conditions of nonpositivity of Green’s function for impulsive differential equation with nonlocal boundary conditions.
Recent advances on blinatumomab for acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zhao Juanjuan , Song Yongping , Liu Delong
Published: November 2019

Although complete remission rate of B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) has improved significantly over the past few decades, patients with relapsed/refractory ALL still have dismal outcome. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antibody–drug conjugates and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy are changing the therapy landscape for B- ALL. Blinatumomab, a bi-specific T cell engager, has been approved for patients with relapsed/refractory and minimal residual disease positive B-ALL. This review summarized data from recent clinical trials of blinatumomab for B-ALL treatment.
The autophagy research in electron microscopy
Authors: Jung Minkyo , Choi Hyosun , Mun Ji Young
Published: November 2019

Autophagy, a highly conserved process of eukaryotic cellular recycling, plays an important role in cell survival and maintenance. Dysfunctional autophagy contributes to the pathologies of many human diseases. Many studies have attempted to clarify the process of autophagy. Here, we review morphological studies of autophagy involving electron microscopy.
Late-adolescent risk factors for suicide and self-harm in middle-aged men: explorative prospective population-based study
Authors: Nyberg Jenny , Gustavsson Sara , Åberg Maria A. I. , Kuhn H. Georg , Waern Margda
Published: November 2019

Background

Recent reports show alarmingly high rates of suicide in middle-aged men, yet there are few long-term prospective studies that focus on suicidal behaviour in men in this age group.

Aims

To prospectively explore associations of potential risk factors at age 18 with suicide and self-harm in middle-aged men.

Method

A population-based Swedish longitudinal cohort study of male conscripts with no history of self-harm at enlistment in 1968–1989 (n= 987 583). Conscription examinations included measures of cognitive performance, stress resilience, psychiatric diagnoses, body mass index (BMI), cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. Suicides and self-harm at age 45–65 years were identified in the National Hospital Register and Swedish Cause of Death Register. Risks were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Low stress resilience (cause-specific hazard ratio CHR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.95–2.74), low cognitive ability (CHR = 2.01, 95% CI 1.71–2.37) as well as psychiatric disorders and low cardiovascular fitness in late adolescence were associated with increased risk for suicide in middle-aged men. Similar risk estimates were obtained for self-harm. In addition, high and low BMI as well as low muscle strength were associated with increased risk of self-harm. Associations also remained significant after exclusion of men with self-harm before age 45.

Conclusions

This prospective study provides life-course perspective support that psychological and physical characteristics in late adolescence may have long-lasting consequences for suicidal behaviour in middle-aged men, a very large population at heightened risk of suicide.
Impact of Estradiol Variability and Progesterone on Mood in Perimenopausal Women With Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Joffe Hadine , de Wit Anouk , Coborn Jamie , Crawford Sybil , Freeman Marlene , Wiley Aleta , Athappilly Geena , Kim Semmie , Sullivan Kathryn A , Cohen Lee S , Hall Janet E
Published: November 2019

Context

Women are at increased risk for depressive symptoms during the menopause transition. Changes in estradiol secretion and presence of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) contribute to perimenopausal depressive symptoms, but links with progesterone have not been investigated.

Objective

To determine whether estradiol variability, ovulatory levels of progesterone, and VMS burden are independently associated with perimenopausal depressive symptomatology.

Design and Intervention

Depressive symptoms, serum levels of estradiol and progesterone, and VMS frequency were assessed weekly in an 8-week observational study. Association of mood with estradiol variability, ovulatory levels of progesterone, and VMS frequency were estimated using generalized estimating equation models.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Patients

Fifty unmedicated perimenopausal women with mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms (mean Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale [MADRS] score 15.5 ± 5.3).

Main Outcome Measure

Depressive symptoms (MADRS score).

Results

During the study, 90.0% of participants had varying estradiol levels, 51.1% had ovulatory progesterone levels, and 90% had VMS. Greater estradiol variability and absence of progesterone levels consistent with ovulation, but not VMS frequency, are associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms (β = 0.11 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.04 to 0.18; P = 0.001]; β = −2.62 [95% CI, −4.52 to −0.71; P = 0.007], respectively), after accounting for higher body mass index, lifetime history of depression, and stressful life events.

Conclusions

Increasing dysregulation of ovarian hormones, but not VMS, associates with more depressive symptom burden during perimenopause. These results suggest that perimenopausal mood instability is driven by the underlying hormonal dysregulation of the menopause transition involving changes in both estradiol and progesterone.
A mobility-based classification of closed kinematic chains in biomechanics and implications for motor control
Authors: Olsen Aaron M.
Published: November 2019

Closed kinematic chains (CKCs), links connected to form one or more closed loops, are used as simple models of musculoskeletal systems (e.g. the four-bar linkage). Previous applications of CKCs have primarily focused on biomechanical systems with rigid links and permanently closed chains, which results in constant mobility (the total degrees of freedom of a system). However, systems with non-rigid elements (e.g. ligaments and muscles) and that alternate between open and closed chains (e.g. standing on one foot versus two) can also be treated as CKCs with changing mobility. Given that, in general, systems that have fewer degrees of freedom are easier to control, what implications might such dynamic changes in mobility have for motor control? Here, I propose a CKC classification to explain the different ways in which mobility of musculoskeletal systems can change dynamically during behavior. This classification is based on the mobility formula, taking into account the number of loops in the CKC and the nature of the constituent joint mobilities. I apply this mobility-based classification to five biomechanical systems: the human lower limbs, the operculum–lower jaw mechanism of fishes, the upper beak rotation mechanism of birds, antagonistic muscles at the human ankle joint and the human jaw processing a food item. I discuss the implications of this classification, including that mobility itself may be dynamically manipulated to simplify motor control. The principal aim of this Commentary is to provide a framework for quantifying mobility across diverse musculoskeletal systems to evaluate its potentially key role in motor control.
The Cipp Model-Based Evaluation on Integrated English Learning (IEL) Program at Language Center
Authors: Agustina Noor Qomaria , Mukhtaruddin Fanni
Published: November 2019

The competition in the workforce demands quality programs to make the learners to have competitive advantage by mastering the foreign language especially English. Language Training Centre is one institution that provide service on teaching language skill. The aim of this research was to make an evaluation on the program conducted by the Centre using the CIPP Model developed by Stufflebeam that evaluated the effectiveness and quality of the program seen from the context, input, process and product, and was applied for a program namely Integrated English Learning (IEL). The methodology was the combination of quantitative and qualitative design. The setting was a a language Center and the participants were the students from two departments. This study described the program from the point of view of its context, input, process and product. The context is seen from the effectivity of the program, while the input discusses about the quality.  The process is to describe the implementation of the program and the product reveals how the goals are achieved.
A Content Analysis of the Reading Activities in “Bright 2”an English Textbook for Junior High School Students
Authors: Sucipto Sucipto , Cahyo Septian Dwi
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to analyze reading activities in “Bright 2” an English textbook for junior high school students grade VIII in Indonesia by using Bloom’s revised taxonomy. A content analysis was conducted to achieve the research purpose. The findings show that the textbook has dominant reading activities on the cognitive process “analyze” 27% and “apply” 21% of the total 145 reading activities, respectively.  The number of higher and lower cognitive processes in this textbook is almost balanced on 49% of higher order thinking skills and 51% of lesser order thinking skills correspondingly. There is a slight difference between the number higher thinking process and lower thinking process since most reading activities are on “analyze”, which is belong to the higher thinking process while the second most frequent reading activities are “apply”, the lower thinking process. Meanwhile, “apply” and “analyze” is placed on the 3rd and 4th in the taxonomy, it means that the textbook emphasizes the middle cognitive thinking process of Bloom’s revised taxonomy, which is formed by “apply” and “analyze”  thinking process.
Phonological Errors in Pronouncing Basa Osing: Analysis of Language Behavior
Authors: Delijar Ressi Maulidina
Published: November 2019

This research aims to determine the language behavior of Basa Osing speakers in phonological aspects. This research is important because of the debate over the Basa Osing linguistic status which considers that Basa Osing is only a variation of Javanese, and the other assumption that Basa Osing is an independent local language. This kind of situation will probably affect the behavior of Basa Osing speakers. This research used qualitative methods and collecting data by using silent movie and picture. The participants involved in this research are 10 Basa Osing speakers. Errors found in pronouncing Basa Osing are in form of ignoring the diphtongization of vocals /i/ and /u/ at the end of the word and the palatalization of /b/ at the beginning and at the middle of the word, /d/ at the middle of the word, /D/ at the middle of the word, /g/ at the beginning and middle of the word, and /m/ in the middle of the word, so that the spoken word sounds more like a word in Javanese than Basa Osing.This research aims to determine the language behavior of Basa Osing speakers in phonological aspects. This research is important because of the debate over the Basa Osing linguistic status which considers that Basa Osing is only a variation of Javanese, and the other assumption that Basa Osing is an independent local language. This kind of situation will probably affect the behavior of Basa Osing speakers. This research used qualitative methods and collecting data by using silent movie and picture. The participants involved in this research are 10 Basa Osing speakers. Errors found in pronouncing Basa Osing are in form of ignoring the diphtongization of vocals /i/ and /u/ at the end of the word and the palatalization of /b/ at the beginning and at the middle of the word, /d/ at the middle of the word, /D/ at the middle of the word, /g/ at the beginning and middle of the word, and /m/ in the middle of the word, so that the spoken word sounds more like a word in Javanese than Basa Osing.
Oral health education? It's child's play!
Authors: Amor-Revening Debbie
Published: November 2019

Debbie Amor-Revening talks us through the planning, implementation to ensure some great results when staging an OHE presentation outside the four walls of the practice
Don't be a ‘Jack of all trades’
Authors: Bainham Lisa
Published: November 2019

Lisa Bainham explains why outsourcing tasks can sharpen your role as a practice manager
Happiest moments
Authors: Haslam Sarah
Published: November 2019

Dental nurse Sarah Haslam talks about her experience of volunteering with Crisis at Christmas
Forces for the future
Authors: Harding Jocelyn , Thomas Megan
Published: November 2019

Jocelyn Harding and Megan Thomas consider the highlights of the Professor Ireland Lecture Day hosted by the Society of British Dental Nurses
Child-Friendly Schools: An Assessment of Kindergartens
Authors: Cobanoglu Fatma , Sevim Suadiye
Published: November 2019

Child Friendly School (CFS) is a democratic environment based on children's rights, where all students are accepted, teaching-learning processes are organized according to children's interest needs, health, safety and protective measures are taken for children and gender-based discrimination is not provided. Preschool education institutions, which are considered to be very effective on the future of the child and the society, should be child friendly in this way. The aim of this study is to identify the teaching-learning environment of independent kindergartens in the context of a child-friendly. The data of the study was obtained from the independent kindergarten in different socioeconomic environments with “CFS Diagnostic Form”. According to the results, it was seen that in terms of effectiveness, the physical areas and materials of the schools were sufficient, but the places and qualifications that increase the effectiveness of teaching were insufficient; in terms of inclusiveness, all children attend school without discrimination in terms of inclusiveness, but female students have low access to school; in terms of democratic participation, means are used to ensure communication with the environment, in terms of healthy, safe and protective environment, physical requirements are fulfilled, necessary measures are taken, but ventilation and out-of-school safety measures are not sufficient and in terms of gender sensitivity, there is no discrimination based on gender. It has been concluded that the independent kindergartens are largely child-friendly, despite some inadequacies.
Social work as protest: conversations with selected first black social work women in South Africa
Authors: Shokane Allucia Lulu , Masoga Mogomme Alpheus
Published: November 2019

Radical and critical social work has existed since the start of the profession. Still, the history of social work education in South Africa does not put prominence on black women social workers like Ellen Kuzwayo and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, among others. Remarkably, these women also participated in the national women’s protest against the pass laws in 1956 by the apartheid government. The authors espouse radical perspectives, such as feminist, human rights and social justice frameworks, embedded in an Afro-sensed approach. Expressly, the authors argue that, in its very nature, social work is protest, which can be used to restore ravaged history, as well as to influence the teaching and practice of social work.
Training vs. Coaching – über Aporien in der Professionalisierungsdiskussion
Authors: Webers Thomas , Zickermann Robert
Published: November 2019

Die Abgrenzungsdebatte um die Professionalisierung von Coaching ist unabgeschlossen und weiterhin notwendig. Coaching wird beispielsweise immer wieder mit Training verglichen. Die Entleihung des Begriffs Coaching aus der Welt des Sports ist ein Fakt, ob der Vergleich sinnvoll ist, eine offene Frage. Die Erforschung des Sprachgebrauchs in der Sportwissenschaft zeigt, dass trotz der steigenden Popularität Coaching auch im Sport ein unscharfer Begriff geblieben ist. In der Coaching-Literatur werden zur Begründung der Abgrenzung mehrere Konzepte bemüht. Die Analyse zeigt, dass diese – u. a. Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe, Beratung ohne Ratschlag – einer kritischen Diskussion nicht standhalten. Welche Lehren können nun aus dieser Debatte für eine weitere Professionalisierung von Coaching gezogen werden?
Woman and Liberal Revolution
Authors: Calvo Caballero Pilar
Published: November 2019

The study of the first liberal Penal Codes (Spanish from 1822/1848/1850 and Portuguese from 1852) shows that the Spanish and the Portuguese woman share the same legal frame, but for a few differences. This frame preserves the feminine pattern of behaviour established by the Old Regime Courts, subject to man’s authority and to marriage as a guarantee of social and family order, but with a change: man’s honor resting upon the woman is honesty, not any longer privileged (married and honest) but imposed (home angel) and punished (dishonest woman). Between applying mercy or an exemplary treatment to a woman, liberal law chooses the last. Woman is not the plural category of the Old Regime any more, but the dual category angel/dishonest, which brings about her fragilitas. This leads to equality among women and approach to men in most offenses, but for the glaring inequality with regard to honor. An exception: the Portuguese wife, protected against procuring, has the right to take vengeance on his husband for her honor, whereas the Spanish wife does not have that right.

Keywords: Spanish Penal Code 1822/1848/1850. Portuguese Penal Code 1852. Woman. Fragilitas. Honesty.