bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of recurrent epilepsy‐associated rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumor with anaplastic transformation in the absence of therapy
Authors: Halfpenny Aaron , Ferris Sean P. , Grafe Marjorie , Woltjer Randy , Selden Nathan , Nazemi Kellie , Perry Arie , Solomon David A. , Gultekin Sakir H. , Moore Stephen , Olson Susan , Lawce Helen , Lucas Lora , Corless Christopher L. , Wood Matthew D.
Published: August 2019

Rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT) most commonly occurs adjacent to the fourth ventricle and therefore rarely presents with epilepsy. Recent reports describe RGNT occurrence in other anatomical locations with considerable morphologic and genetic overlap with the epilepsy‐associated dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNET). Examples of RGNT or DNET with anaplastic change are rare, and typically occur in the setting of radiation treatment. We present the case of a 5‐year‐old girl with seizures, who underwent near total resection of a cystic temporal lobe lesion. Pathology showed morphologic and immunohistochemical features of RGNT, albeit with focally overlapping DNET‐like patterns. Resections of residual or recurrent tumor were performed 1 year and 5 years after the initial resection, but no adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy was given. Ten years after the initial resection, surveillance imaging identified new and enhancing nodules, leading to another gross total resection. This specimen showed areas similar to the original tumor, but also high‐grade foci with oligodendroglial morphology, increased cellularity, palisading necrosis, microvascular proliferation, and up to 13 mitotic figures per 10 high power fields. Ancillary studies the status by sequencing showed wild‐type of the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), IDH2, and human histone 3.3 (H3F3A) genes, and BRAF studies were negative for mutation or rearrangement. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) showed codeletion of 1p and 19q limited to the high‐grade regions. By immunohistochemistry there was loss of nuclear alpha‐thalassemia mental retardation syndrome, X‐linked (ATRX) expression only in the high‐grade region. Next‐generation sequencing showed an fibroblast growth factor receptor receptor 1 (FGFR1) kinase domain internal tandem duplication in three resection specimens. ATRX mutation in the high‐grade tumor was confirmed by sequencing which showed a frameshift mutation (p.R1427fs), while the apparent 1p/19q‐codeletion by FISH was due to loss of chromosome arm 1p and only partial loss of 19q. Exceptional features of this case include the temporal lobe location, 1p/19q loss by FISH without true whole‐arm codeletion, and anaplastic transformation associated with ATRX mutation without radiation or chemotherapy.
Neoliberalism and neoliberals: What are we talking about?
Authors: Lipscomb Martin
Published: August 2019

The terms neoliberalism and neoliberal play a variety of roles ranging from major to trivial in the papers they appear in. Both phrases carry pejorative connotations in nurse writing. Yet irrespective of the role assumed in argument, readers are rarely provided with enough information to determine what the descriptors mean in a substantive or concrete sense. It is proposed that scholars who use these terms in their work should consider expressing themselves more carefully than often occurs at present. Virtue signalling in academic writing should, absent critical argument, be discouraged.
Mineralogy and geochemistry of atypical reduction spheroids from the Tumblagooda Sandstone, Western Australia
Authors: Fox David C. M. , Spinks Samuel C. , Thorne Robert L. , Barham Milo , Aspandiar Mehrooz , Armstrong Joseph G. T. , Uysal Tonguç , Timms Nicholas E. , Pearce Mark A. , Verrall Michael , Godel Belinda , Whisson Brad
Published: August 2019

Reduction spheroids are small‐scale, biogenic, redox‐controlled, metal enrichments that occur within red beds globally. This study provides the first analysis of the compositionally unique reduction spheroids of the Tumblagooda Sandstone. The work aims to account for their composition and consequently improve existing models for reduction spheroids generally, which presently fail to account for the mineralogy of the Tumblagooda Sandstone reduction spheroids. Interstitial areas between detrital grains contained in the cores of these reduction spheroids are dominated by microplaty haematite, in addition to minor amounts of svanbergite, gorceixite, anatase, uraninite, monazite and illite. The haematite‐rich composition, along with an absence of base metal phases and the vanadiferous mica roscoelite, makes these reduction spheroids notable in comparison to other global reduction spheroid occurrences. Analyses of illite crystallinity provide values for samples of the Tumblagooda Sandstone host rock corresponding to heating temperatures of ca 200°C. Consequently, while Tumblagooda Sandstone reduction spheroids formed via the typical metabolic processes of dissimilatory metal‐reducing bacteria, the combination of a unique mineralogy and illite crystallinity analysis provides evidence of more complex late‐stage heating and reoxidation. This has not previously been recognised in other reduction spheroids and therefore expands the existing model for reduction spheroid genesis by also considering the potential for late‐stage alteration. As such, future reduction spheroid studies should consider the potential impact of post‐formation modification, particularly where they are to be used as evidence of ancient microbial processes; such as in the search for early evidence of life in the geological record on Earth or other planets. Additionally, because of their potential for modification, reduction spheroids serve as a record of the redox history of red beds and their study could provide insights into the evolution of redox conditions within a given red bed during its diagenesis. Finally, this paper also provides insights into the relatively understudied diagenetic history of the Tumblagooda Sandstone; supplying the first reliable and narrow constraints on its thermal history. This has important implications for the thermal history of the Carnarvon Basin and its petroleum prospectivity more broadly.
Research on the Multi-Period Optimal Fee of the Money Manager Under Cumulative Prospect Theory
Authors: Deng Liurui , Yang Lan , Ma Bolin
Published: August 2019

We are interested in investors’ interaction with portfolio managers and investigate the manager’s optimal strategy under cumulative prospect theory. We create model to characterize the relative anxiety about investing in risk assets and trust in the manager. Besides, we research how anxiety and trust aﬀect the manager’s fee and the investors’ portfolios under cumulative prospect theory. Compared with previous work, our main novelty is that we focus on a dynamic portfolio selection. In other words, we formulate the optimal problem under multi-period setting. Besides, relying on the sub-game perfect investment strategies, we attain an optimal fee in multi-period. Another contribution is to discuss multiple risky assets. We use elliptic distribution to reduce a high-dimensional optimal problem to a one-dimensional optimal one. We obtain the CPT-investors’ portfolio for multiple risky assets under a dynamic framework. Based on this result, we study the manager’s optimal fee. It is valuable to say that we explore the optimal strategy for the manager under cumulative prospect theory but not the classical mean-variance preferences.
The Level of Knowledge and Opinions of Science Teacher Candidates on Safety Measurements in General Chemistry Laboratory Studies
Authors: Kocak Nuriye
Published: August 2019

In general chemistry laboratories of universities, faculty members and students work with chemicals and devices and they are exposed to various risks. For this reason, it is of great importance whether teacher candidates are who are the teachers of future are adequately equipped in terms of laboratory safety or not. This study was conducted on teacher candidates who participated in General Chemistry Laboratory practices in Science Teacher Education program and their opinions and knowledge levels about laboratory safety were investigated. In the study, teacher candidates were informed about the necessary precautions while working in a general chemistry laboratory in 4 courses. Then, in order to increase the awareness and responsibility of the students via the information that taught in courses, the General Chemistry Laboratory Safety questionnaire form given in the appendix was applied. The questionnaire form developed for laboratory safety was applied to 81 teacher candidates. According to the results obtained from the study, it has been found out that teacher candidates mostly find the general chemistry laboratory safety important and understand the importance of information about safety. SPSS 13.0 was used to analyze the consequences of the survey.
Cerberus Bites Back: A Tale with Three Heads — the Syrophoenician and her Imitators
Authors: Cadwallader Alan
Published: August 2019

Exchanges about dogs operate rhetorically in the stories of the Syrophoenician women in Mark’s gospel, the Canaanite woman in Matthew, and the righteous Justa in the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies. The three stories are thus analysed with a focus on proverbial form, poetic features, and metre. The variations in the way the dogs are employed in the three stories reflect different periods and contexts within early Christianities, and are variously employed to convey abuse, voice, food practices, ethnicity, and gender.
On Behalf of Holy Creatures: Hélène Cixous Reads Leviticus, or, la lecture immonde
Authors: Klangwisan Yael
Published: August 2019

This article performs a critical creative reading of several texts: Lev 11, Lispector’s The Passion according to G. H., and Cixous’s essay “The School of Roots”. Each of these texts seeks to understand the human relation to the animal. Cixous’s project in “The School of Roots” is, as Derrida does in L’animal, to interrogate and reinscribe the biblical text, so that another relation between the human and the animal might become possible. From the platform that Lispector and Cixous create, this reader seeks to open the biblical text to a counter-reading on behalf of the holy creature.
The effects of Spiromesifen on life history traits and demographic parameters of predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae) and its prey Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Authors: Sangak Sani Bozhgani1 Niloufar , Kheradmand Katayoon , Talebi Aliasghar
Published: August 2019

Estimating sublethal effects of acaricides on phytoseiid mites and their prey as a reliable approach in predicting the acaricides impacts is mandatory for IPM programs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of spiromesifen on life history traits and demographic parameters of the offspring of Neoseiulus californicus and Tetranychus urticae under laboratory conditions [25 ± 2ºC, 70 ± 5% RH and 16:8 (L:D) h]. The experiments were conducted based on the leaf-dip technique. The crude data were analysed based on age-stage, two-sex life table analysis. The pre-adult and adult longevity of both sexes significantly reduced for N. califonicus and T. urticae with the concentration enhancing from LC20 to LC35. In addition, the oviposition period for both species significantly decreased as a consequence of treatment with LC25 and LC35 of spiromesifen. The minimal values of the total fecundity for N. califonicus and T. urticae were 16.58 and 19.35 (offspring/individual), respectively, which was related to LC35 concentration. Further, the lowest values of R0 and GRR of N. califonicus and its prey were 48.88 and 31.14 (offspring/individual) in LC35, respectively. However, the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and finite rate of increase (λ) were not significantly influenced by sublethal concentration in N. californicus while the r and λ were significantly reduced in T. urticae treated by LC20, LC25 and LC35. Therefore, spiromesifen could profoundly decrease the population growth rate of T. urticae but can not be considered as a compatible acaricide with N. califonicus because of its negative effect on the longevity, total lifespan, and reproductive periods and should not be used with this predatory mite in integrated pest management programs.
Adverse events associated with human papillomavirus vaccines: a protocol for systematic review with network meta-analysis incorporating all randomised controlled trials comparing with placebo, adjuvants and other vaccines
Authors: Takeuchi Jiro , Noma Hisashi , Sakanishi Yuta , Kawamura Takashi
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Adverse events following the injection (AEFIs) of human papillomavirus vaccine (HPVv) among female adolescents are still a major public health concern.

Methods

According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension statement for systematic reviews incorporating network meta-analyses, all prospective randomised trials will be included. The primary outcome for adverse events is topical pain during the observation period.

We will mainly search 17 electronic databases from January 2000 through September 2019 with suitable Medical Subject Headings and text words for PubMed. Two reviewers will independently check the reports at the title/abstract level and identify potentially applicable studies. Then we will obtain their full texts and decide whether to include them based on the same eligible criteria.

We will compare HPVv with placebo, HPVv with adjuvant and HPVv with other vaccines. Interstudy heterogeneity, publication biases or small study effects will be evaluated using conventional meta-analysis methods. The consistency of the network will be checked using tests for local and global inconsistency and the side-splitting method. To address the heterogeneity of treatment effects among the studies, we will use the multivariable random effect model.

Ethics and dissemination

This pairwise or network meta-analysis does not require ethics approval. The data used here are not individual nor private. We will be able to determine which component of the vaccine induces adverse events, especially topical pain. This systematic review with network meta-analysis will provide valid answers regarding AEFIs for HPVv.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018109265
Glucocorticoids for acute urticaria: study protocol for a double-blind non-inferiority randomised controlled trial
Authors: Javaud Nicolas , Soria Angele , Maignan Maxime , Martin Ludovic , Descamps Vincent , Fain Olivier , Bouillet Laurence , Berard Frederic , Tazarourte Karim , Roy Pierre-Marie , Fontaine Jean-Paul , Bagot Martine , Khellaf Mehdi , Goulet Helene , Lapostolle Frederic , Casalino Enrique , Doutre Marie-Sylvie , Gil-Jardine Cedric , Caux Frederic , Chosidow Olivier , Pateron Dominique , Vicaut Eric , Adnet Frederic
Published: August 2019

Introduction

This study protocol describes a trial designed to investigate whether antihistamine alone in patients with acute urticaria does not increase the 7-day Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7) in comparison with an association of antihistamine and glucocorticoids and reduces short-term relapses and chronic-induced urticaria.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, double-blind, parallel-group, multicentre non-inferiority randomised controlled trial. Two-hundred and forty patients with acute urticaria admitted to emergency department will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive levocetirizine or an association of levocetirizine and prednisone. Randomisation will be stratified by centre. The primary outcome will be the UAS7 at day 7. The secondary outcomes will encompass recurrence of hives and/or itch at day 7; occurrence of spontaneous hives or itch for >6 weeks; patients with angioedema at day 7, and 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks; new emergency visits for acute urticaria recurrences at days 7 and 14, and 3 months; Dermatology Life Quality Index at days 7 and 14, and 3 and 6 months; and Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life Questionnaire at 6 weeks.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol has been approved by theComité de Protection des PersonnesSud-Méditerranée IIand will be carried out in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and Good Clinical Practice guidelines. A steering committee will oversee the progress of the study. Findings will be disseminated through national and international scientific conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT03545464
Efficacy of artemisinin-based and quinine-based treatments for uncomplicated falciparum malaria in pregnancy: a protocol for systematic review and individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis
Authors: Saito Makoto , Mansoor Rashid , Kennon Kalynn , McGready Rose , Nosten François , Guérin Philippe J , Stepniewska Kasia
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Pregnant women are more vulnerable to malaria leading to adverse impact on both mothers and fetuses. However, knowledge on the efficacy and safety of antimalarials in pregnancy is limited by the paucity of randomised control trials and the lack of standardised protocols in this special subpopulation. Pooling individual patient data (IPD) for meta-analysis could address in part these limitations to summarise accurately the currently available evidence on treatment efficacy and risk factors for treatment failure.

Methods and analysis

To assess the treatment efficacy of artemisinin-based and quinine-based treatments for uncomplicated falciparum malaria in pregnancy, seven databases (Medline, Embase, Global Health, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science and Literatura Latino Americana em Ciências da Saúde) and two clinical trial registries (International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrial.gov) were searched. Both interventional and observational cohort studies following up for at least 28 days will be included. IPD of the identified eligible published or unpublished studies will be sought by inviting principal investigators. Raw IPD will be shared through the web-based secure platform developed by the WorldWide Antimalarial Resistance Network using the established methodology. The primary objective is to compare the risk of PCR-corrected treatment failure among different treatments and to find the risk factors. One-stage IPD meta-analysis by Cox model with shared frailty will be conducted. A risk of bias assessment will be conducted to address the impact of unshared potential data and of the quality of individual studies. Potential limitations include difficulty in acquiring the IPD and heterogeneity of the study designs due to the lack of standard.

Ethics and dissemination

This IPD meta-analysis consists of secondary analyses of existing anonymous data and meets the criteria for waiver of ethics review by the Oxford Tropical Research Ethics Committee. The results of this IPD meta-analysis will be disseminated through open-access publications at peer-reviewed journals. The study results will lead to a better understanding of malaria treatment in pregnancy, which can be used for clinical decision-making and conducting further studies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018104013.
Study protocol for a multicentre, controlled non-randomised trial: benefits of exercise physiology services for type 2 diabetes (BEST)
Authors: Kitic Cecilia M , Selig Steve , Davison Kade , Best Tania L B , Parmenter Belinda , Pumpa Kate , Furzer Bonnie , Rice Vanessa , Hardcastle Sibella , Cheney Michael , Palmer Andrew J , Fraser Steve , Williams Andrew D
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Controlled trials support the efficacy of exercise as a treatment modality for chronic conditions, yet effectiveness of real-world Exercise Physiology services is yet to be determined. This study will investigate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of services provided by Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) for clients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in clinical practice.

Methods and analysis

A non-randomised, opportunistic control, longitudinal design trial will be conducted at ten Exercise Physiology Clinics. Participants will be individuals with T2D attending one of the Exercise Physiology Clinics for routine AEP services (exercise prescription and counselling) (intervention) or individuals with T2D not receiving AEP services (usual care) (control). The experimental period will be 6 months with measurements performed at baseline and at 6 months. Primary outcome measures will be glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), resting brachial blood pressure (BP), body mass index, waist circumference, 6 min walk test, grip strength, 30 s sit to stand, Medical Outcomes Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey and Active Australia Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes will be medication usage, out-of-pocket expenses, incidental, billable and non-billable health professional encounters and work missed through ill health. Healthcare utilisation will be measured for 12 months prior to, during and 12 months after trial participation using linked data from Medicare Benefits Schedule and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is a multicentre trial comprising: University of Tasmania, University of New South Wales Lifestyle Clinic, University of Canberra, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute (covered under the ethics approval of University of Tasmania Health and Medical Ethics Committee H0015266), Deakin University (Approval number: 2016–187), Australian Catholic University (2016–304R), Queensland University of Technology (1600000049), University of South Australia (0000035306), University of Western Australia (RA/4/1/8282) and Canberra Hospital (ETH.8.17.170). The findings of this clinical trial will be communicated via peer-reviewed journal articles, conference presentations, social media and broadcast media.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12616000264482.
Prospective longitudinal observational study of the macro and micro haemodynamic responses to septic shock in the renal and systemic circulations: a protocol for the MICROSHOCK – RENAL study
Authors: Watchorn Jim , Huang Dean , Hopkins Philip , Bramham Kate , Hutchings Sam
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Septic acute kidney injury (AKI) is the most common complication of septic shock and increases mortality. A large body of experimental data suggests alterations in renal perfusion occur, but this is yet to be fully assessed in humans. The aim of the current study is to observe the macro and microcirculations in both the systemic and renal circulations in a cohort of patients with early septic shock.

Methods and analysis

Single-centre, prospective, longitudinal, observational study of 50 patients with septic shock. Renal microcirculatory assessment will be performed with contrast-enhanced ultrasound, the sublingual microcirculation assessed with incident dark field microscopy and transthoracic echocardiography used to assess global flow. Patients will be enrolled as soon as possible after admission to the intensive care unit and then at +24,+48 and +96 hours. Blood samples of circulatory and renal biomarkers will be collected. Sample groups will be defined by the presence or absence of AKI and then subclassified by the severity (Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria), variables will be compared within and between groups over time.

Ethics and dissemination

Research Ethics Committee (REC) approval has been granted for this study by Yorkshire and the Humber, Leeds West Research Ethics Committee (18/YH/0371) and due to the nature of the patients enrolled with septic shock, capacity for informed consent is likely to be lacking. Therefore, a personal consultee (friend or relative) will be consulted or a nominated consultee (clinician) in their absence. After capacity is regained, consent will then be sought from the patient in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act, UK (2005). This consent process has been approved following REC review. Results will be published in a relevant peer-reviewed journal and presented at academic meetings.
Outcomes of disease prevention and management interventions in food pantries and food banks: a scoping review
Authors: Long Christopher R , Rowland Brett , Steelman Susan C , McElfish Pearl A
Published: August 2019

Objective

Food insecurity affects millions of Americans and is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes. Food insecure individuals often obtain food from food pantries/banks, prompting health researchers to implement disease prevention/management interventions at these sites. This review examined the existing peer-reviewed research on disease prevention/management interventions implemented in food pantries/banks.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

Databases searched included MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL and Cochrane. Search strategies included Medical Subject Headings and key terms, including food pantry, food bank, food shelf, food aid and related concepts.

Eligibility criteria

Studies were included if they described an intervention involving food pantries/banks where at least one biometric indicator was included as an outcome variable. Articles focused solely on the quality of foods distributed, the diet quality of food pantry/bank clients or government food aid programmes were excluded.

Data extraction and synthesis

Extracted data included publication details, intervention type, study design, participant characteristics, study outcomes, and barriers and facilitators of intervention implementation.

Results

A total of 3317 articles were assessed for eligibility. Six studies met the predefined inclusion criteria. The studies employed a range of intervention approaches to manage or prevent a number of chronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and HIV. The studies examined a range of biometric outcomes, including body mass index, glycated haemoglobin and blood pressure. Information about the food pantries/banks where the interventions were conducted was lacking. The studies documented multiple barriers and facilitators related to costs, sustainability and organisational capacity.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first review to examine disease prevention and management interventions conducted in food pantries and food banks. Given the high number of households who obtain food from food pantries/banks and the chronic health conditions associated with food insecurity, this review highlights the need for more high-quality research in this setting.
Drink driving and speeding in Sao Paulo, Brazil: empirical cross-sectional study (2015–2018)
Authors: Andreuccetti Gabriel , Leyton Vilma , Carvalho Heráclito Barbosa , Sinagawa Daniele M , Bombana Henrique S , Ponce Julio C , Allen Katharine A , Vecino-Ortiz Andres I , Hyder Adnan A
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the prevalence of drink driving and speeding during 2015–2018 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study.

Setting

Roads representing the five main regions of the city of Sao Paulo in Brazil, one of the world’s largest urban areas.

Participants

Drivers (N=10 294) stopped at routine roadside breath testing checkpoints and those driving in selected roads for speeding measurement (N=414 664).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Microwave radar guns were used to measure the speed of vehicles, while the prevalence of drivers under the influence of alcohol was observed in police checkpoints. Data were collected during three consecutive years (2016–2018) following a baseline study established in 2015 using a city-level representative sample of observational data representing all days of the week.

Results

Alcohol-related fatalities kept at a constantly high percentage, with 39% of road traffic deaths involving alcohol in 2016. Drivers testing above the legal breath alcohol concentration limit showed a decreasing trend, from 4.1% (95% CI 2.9% to 5.5%) at baseline to 0.6% (95% CI 0.2% to 1.2%) in the end of 2018 (p<0.001); however, more than half of drivers refused breath tests at checkpoints despite steep legal penalties. The prevalence of speeding among all vehicles decreased from 8.1% (95% CI 7.9% to 8.2%) to 4.9% (95% CI 4.7% to 5.1%) by the end of 2016 (p<0.001), but then increased again to 13.5% (95% CI 13.2% to 13.9%) at the end of the study period (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Drink driving rates have reduced, likely due to an increase in drivers refusing breath alcohol tests, while speeding rates have increased significantly by the end of the study period, particularly among motorcycles. Future strategies aiming at reducing road traffic injuries in the major Brazilian city should tailor drink driving and speeding enforcement based on the new evidence provided here.
Atrial fibrillation is not an independent predictor of outcome in patients with aortic stenosis
Authors: Zhang Hongju , El-Am Edward A , Thaden Jeremy J , Pislaru Sorin V , Scott Christopher G , Krittanawong Chayakrit , Chahal Anwar A , Breen Thomas J , Eleid Mackram F , Melduni Rowlens M , Greason Kevin L , McCully Robert B , Enriquez-Sarano Maurice , Oh Jae K , Pellikka Patricia A , Nkomo Vuyisile T
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To examine the prognostic significance of atrial fibrillation (AF) versus sinus rhythm (SR) on the management and outcomes of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS).

Methods

1847 consecutive patients with severe AS (aortic valve area ≤1.0 cm2and aortic valve systolic mean Doppler gradient ≥40 mm Hg or peak velocity ≥4 m/s) and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% were identified. The independent association of AF and all-cause mortality was assessed.

Results

Age was 76±11 years and 46% were female; 293 (16%) patients had AF and 1554 (84%) had SR. In AF, 72% were symptomatic versus 71% in SR. Survival rate at 5 years for AF (41%) was lower than SR (65%) (age- and sex-adjusted HR=1.66 (1.40–1.98), p<0.0001). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with mortality included age (HR per 10 years=1.55 (1.42–1.69), p<0.0001), dyspnoea (HR=1.58 (1.33–1.87), p<0.0001), ≥ moderate mitral regurgitation (HR=1.63 (1.22–2.18), p=0.001), right ventricular systolic dysfunction (HR=1.88 (1.52–2.33), p<0.0001), left atrial volume index (HR per 10 mL/m2=1.13 (1.07–1.19), p<0.0001) and aortic valve replacement (AVR) (HR=0.44 (0.38–0.52), p<0.0001). AF was not a predictor of mortality independent of variables strongly correlated HR=1.02 (0.84–1.25), p=0.81). The 1-year probability of AVR following diagnosis of severe AS was lower in AF (49.8%) than SR (62.5%) (HR=0.73 (0.62–0.86), p<0.001); among patients with AF not referred for AVR, symptoms were frequently attributed to AF instead of AS.

Conclusion

AF was associated with poor prognosis in patients with severe AS, but apparent differences in outcomes compared with SR were explained by factors other than AF including concomitant cardiac abnormalities and deferral of AVR due to attribution of cardiac symptoms to AF.
Osteopetrosis in a young adult dog causing multiple cranial nerve deficits
Authors: Elford James , Parry Andrew T , Behr Sebastien
Published: August 2019

A two‐year‐old Cocker Spaniel was presented for investigation of lethargy and cranial nerve deficits. Neurological examination revealed multiple cranial nerves deficits and haematology and serum biochemistry revealed mild anaemia. MRI of the brain revealed caudoventral cerebellar herniation and cervical syringohydromyelia, while both MRI and CT revealed hyperostosis of the calvarium and narrowing of the calvarial foramina. Radiographs demonstrated marked osteosclerosis of the skull, vertebrae, sternebrae, ribs and long bones of the limbs. Further biochemistry revealed total calcium, ionised calcium and vitamin D levels to be unremarkable. This led to a diagnosis of osteopetrosis. Osteopetrosis is an extremely rare condition in dogs, with only sporadic cases being reported previously in the literature.
Assessment of costs and insurance policies for referral treatment of equine colic
Authors: Barker Isobel , Freeman Sarah L
Published: August 2019

Colic is the most common emergency problem in horses. The aims of this study were to survey costs of different referral treatments and to review insurance policies relevant to horses with colic. Data were collected retrospectively from nine equine hospitals for case costs, categorised into four different outcomes: admitted and euthanased; euthanased during or immediately after surgery; medical treatment and survived more than 24 hours; and surgical treatment and survived more than 24 hours. Data from five UK equine insurance companies were extracted and analysed using a standardised case example. Costs were obtained for 108 cases. The mean cost for horses admitted and euthanased was £873.89 (range £459.72–£1471.51), and for surgical treatment and survival more than 24 hours was £6437.80 (range £3178.87–£9100.00). Insurance cover for veterinary fees ranged from £5000 to £7500, and monthly premium rates for a standardised case ranged from £27.06 to £47.06. The terms and conditions for the insurance policies ranged in length from 2098 to 17,701 words; Flesch Kincaid Reading Ease scores ranged from 21.6 to 57.7, indicating a high degree of complexity and low readability. This study highlights the complexity and challenges for decision‐making in critical cases of colic.
Maternal and neonatal red blood cell n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids inversely associate with infant whole-body fat mass assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry
Authors: Farahnak Zahra , Yuan Ye , Vanstone Catherine A. , Weiler Hope A.
Published: August 2019

Research regarding polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) status and body composition in neonates is limited. This study tested the relationship between newborn docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) status and body composition. Healthy mothers and their term-born infants (n = 100) were studied within 1 month postpartum for anthropometry and whole-body composition using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Maternal and infant red blood cell (RBC) membrane PUFA profiles were measured using gas chromatography (expressed as percentage of total fatty acids). Data were grouped according to infant RBC DHA quartiles and tested for differences in n-3 status and infant body composition using mixed-model ANOVA, Spearman correlations, and regression analyses (P < 0.05). Mothers were 32.2 ± 4.6 years (mean ± SD) of age, infants (54% males) were 0.68 ± 0.23 month of age, and 80% exclusively breastfed. Infant RBC DHA (ranged 3.96% to 7.75% of total fatty acids) inversely associated with infant fat mass (r = –0.22, P = 0.03). Infant and maternal RBC n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio (r2 = 0.28, P = 0.043; r2 = 0.28, P = 0.041 respectively) were positively associated with fat mass. These results demonstrate that both maternal and infant long-chain PUFA status are associated with neonatal body composition.

Novelty Our findings support an early window to further explore the relationship between infant n-3 PUFA status and body composition. Maternal and infant n-3 PUFA status is inversely related to neonatal whole-body fat mass. DHA appears to be the best candidate to test in the development of a lean body phenotype.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of the GATA transcription factor gene family in Ustilaginoidea virens
Authors: Yu Mina , Yu Junjie , Cao Huijuan , Yong Mingli , Liu Yongfeng
Published: August 2019

In filamentous fungi, the conserved transcription factors play important roles in multiple cellular and developmental processes. The GATA proteins, a family of GATA-binding zinc finger transcription factors, play diverse functions in fungi. Ustilaginoidea virens is an economically important pathogen-causing rice false smut worldwide. To gain additional insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of this pathogen, in this study, we identified and functionally characterized seven GATA proteins from the U. virens genome (UvGATA). Sequences analysis indicated that these GATA proteins are divided into seven clades. The proteins in each clade contained conserved clade-specific sequences and structures, thus leading to the same motif serving different purposes in various contexts. The expression profiles of UvGATA genes at different infection stages and under H2O2 stress were detected. Results showed that the majority of UvGATA genes performed functions at both processes, thereby confirming the roles of these genes in pathogenicity and reactive oxygen species stress tolerance. This study provided an important starting point to further explore the biological functions of UvGATA genes and increased our understanding of their potential transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in U. virens.
Scalar dark matter probes the scale of nonlocality
Authors: Ghoshal Anish
Published: August 2019

Scalar dark matter (DM) in a theory introduces hierarchy problems, and suffers from the inability to predict the preferred mass range for the DM. In a WIMP-like minimal scalar DM setup we show that the infinite derivative theory can predict the DM mass and its coupling. The scale of nonlocality [Formula: see text] in such a theory in its lowermost limit (constrained by LHC) implies a DM mass [Formula: see text] TeV and a coupling with the Standard Model (SM) Higgs [Formula: see text]. Planned DM direct detection experiments reaching such sensitivity in the DM will effectively translate into lower bounds on the scale at which the nonlocality comes into the play.
Nilpotent charges in an interacting gauge theory and an 𝒩 = 2 SUSY quantum mechanical model: (Anti-)chiral superfield approach
Authors: Chauhan B. , Kumar S. , Malik R. P.
Published: August 2019

We exploit the power and potential of the (anti-)chiral superfield approach (ACSA) to Becchi–Rouet–Stora–Tyutin (BRST) formalism to derive the nilpotent (anti-)BRST symmetry transformations for any arbitrary [Formula: see text]-dimensional interacting non-Abelian 1-form gauge theory where there is an [Formula: see text] gauge invariant coupling between the gauge field and the Dirac fields. We derive the conserved and nilpotent (anti-)BRST charges and establish their nilpotency and absolute anticommutativity properties within the framework of ACSA to BRST formalism. The clinching proof of the absolute anticommutativity property of the conserved and nilpotent (anti-)BRST charges is a novel result in view of the fact that we consider, in our endeavor, only the (anti-)chiral super expansions of the superfields that are defined on the [Formula: see text]-dimensional super-submanifolds of the general [Formula: see text]-dimensional supermanifold on which our [Formula: see text]-dimensional ordinary interacting non-Abelian 1-form gauge theory is generalized. To corroborate the novelty of the above result, we apply the ACSA to an [Formula: see text] supersymmetric (SUSY) quantum mechanical (QM) model of a harmonic oscillator and show that the nilpotent and conserved [Formula: see text] supercharges of this system do not absolutely anticommute.
Dovetailing the Belt and Road Initiative with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: The Connotations, Objectives and Pathways
Authors: ZHU Lei , CHEN Ying
Published: August 2019

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been put into practice for nearly six years since it was put forward in 2013. While the achievements have attracted the world’s attention, it is also necessary to think over the way of building the “Road and Belt” with a higher quality. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (hereinafter referred to as the “2030 Agenda”) is the latest result of the United Nations’ sustainable development cause and the world’s consensus, with its authority being widely recognized. There are many similarities between BRI and the 2030 Agenda. Dovetailing them can help dispelling the international community’s worries, and promoting the international position and moral advantage of participating countries and friendly groups, and help introducing BRI to the rest of the world. The important theoretical and policy issues of dovetailing BRI with the 2030 Agenda involve three aspects, i.e. connotations, objectives and pathways. The core of the dovetail lies at the understanding of the dialectical relationship between actions and goals, and between the current and the future. Its purpose is to build a common discourse system with other countries, increase the supply of quality public goods, promote the global sustainable development process and facilitate the implementation of the sustainable development goals in the developing countries along the Belt and Road. The pathway is to dovetail the ideas, fields and mechanisms of BRI with those of the 2030 Agenda.
Deriving the arterial Po2 and oxygen deficit from expired gas and pulse oximetry
Authors: Prisk G. Kim , West John B.
Published: August 2019

The efficiency of pulmonary gas exchange is often assessed by the ideal alveolar-arterial partial pressure difference (A-aDO2). Through a combination of pulse oximetry and rapidly responding gas analyzers to measure the partial pressures of O2 and CO2 in expired gas, one can measure the oxygen deficit. Defined as the difference between the measured alveolar Po2 and the arterial Po2 calculated from [Formula: see text], the oxygen deficit is a substitute for the alveolar-arterial Po2 difference. The oxygen deficit is physiologically reasonable in that it increases with age in healthy subjects and is well correlated with the A-aDO2. To calculate arterial Po2 from saturation, the saturation should be below the very flat upper part of the O2-Hb dissociation curve; good estimates can be made provided the arterial O2 saturation is below ~95%. Since saturations at or above 95% imply reasonably well-maintained gas exchange efficiency, this limitation is of only minor concern. Calculations show that it is necessary to take into account the change in Po2 at a saturation of 50% of the O2-Hb dissociation curve based on the measured alveolar Pco2. As the measurement is designed to be noninvasive, determination of any base excess is not practical, but calculations show that the effect of assuming a zero base excess is modest, with a similar small effect from an abnormal body temperature. Taken together, these results show that a noninvasive assessment of pulmonary gas exchange efficiency can be obtained from subjects with below-normal arterial O2 saturations through a combination of expired O2 and CO2 measurements and [Formula: see text] made during quiet breathing.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The details and limitations of a noninvasive measurement of pulmonary gas exchange efficiency, the oxygen deficit, are described. The oxygen deficit, calculated from expired gas measurements made during quiet breathing coupled with pulse oximetry, is a good surrogate measurement of the ideal alveolar-arterial Po2 difference and does not require arterial blood gas sampling.
Interleukin-6 Expression by Hypothalamic Microglia in Multiple Inflammatory Contexts: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bobbo Vanessa C. D. , Jara Carlos P. , Mendes Natália F. , Morari Joseane , Velloso Lício A. , Araújo Eliana P.
Published: August 2019

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a unique cytokine that can play both pro- and anti-inflammatory roles depending on the anatomical site and conditions under which it has been induced. Specific neurons of the hypothalamus provide important signals to control food intake and energy expenditure. In individuals with obesity, a microglia-dependent inflammatory response damages the neural circuits responsible for maintaining whole-body energy homeostasis, resulting in a positive energy balance. However, little is known about the role of IL-6 in the regulation of hypothalamic microglia. In this systematic review, we asked what types of conditions and stimuli could modulate microglial IL-6 expression in murine model. We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases and analyzed 13 articles that evaluated diverse contexts and study models focused on IL-6 expression and microglia activation, including the effects of stress, hypoxia, infection, neonatal overfeeding and nicotine exposure, lipopolysaccharide stimulus, hormones, exercise protocols, and aging. The results presented in this review emphasized the role of “injury-like” stimuli, under which IL-6 acts as a proinflammatory cytokine, concomitant with marked microglial activation, which drive hypothalamic neuroinflammation. Emerging evidence indicates an important correlation of basal IL-6 levels and microglial function with the maintenance of hypothalamic homeostasis. Advances in our understanding of these different contexts will lead to the development of more specific pharmacological approaches for the management of acute and chronic conditions, like obesity and metabolic diseases, without disturbing the homeostatic functions of IL-6 and microglia in the hypothalamus.
Prognostic Significance of CIP2A in Esophagogastric Junction Adenocarcinoma: A Study of 65 Patients and a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Yanhong , Wang Mei , Zhu Xueping , Cao Xu , Wu Yi , Fang Fang
Published: August 2019

Background. The expression of the cancerous inhibitor protein phosphatase 2A (CIP2A) appears to be predictive of the prognosis of various solid tumors. However, the association between this protein and the risk of esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma (EGJA) remains unclear. We investigated CIP2A expression and its clinical significance in EGJA and conducted a meta-analysis to explore the relationship between CIP2A and the prognosis of patients with solid tumors. Methods. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to detect the expression of CIP2A in EGJA. Kaplan-Meier estimation, Cox analysis, and ROC curves were performed to analyze the survival of patients and the prognostic factors. In the meta-analysis, we searched relevant publications in several widely used databases and used 15 studies (2348 patients). Results. IHC demonstrated that CIP2A was elevated in EGJA and correlated with poor survival as an independent indicator. It could forecast the survival more precisely when combined with the grade, which is another independent prognosis marker of EGJA. Meta-analysis demonstrated that the associations between the expression of CIP2A and the prognosis were detected for overall survival (HR=1.98, 95%CI=1.69‐2.32), disease-specific survival (HR=1.72, 95%CI=1.50‐1.97), and time to tumor progression (pooled HR=1.95, 95%CI=1.56‐2.43). Conclusion. High expression of CIP2A was a poor indicator of the prognosis of EGJA, and CIP2A may be a new biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of EGJA. The meta-analysis suggested that CIP2A expression can be a predictive marker of overall survival, disease-specific survival, and time to tumor progression in patients with solid tumors.
Study of the Immune Response in the Elderly: Is It Necessary to Develop a Vaccine againstNeisseria meningitidisfor the Aged?
Authors: Trzewikoswki de Lima Gabriela , De Gaspari Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

Literature reports the association between aging and decline in the immune system function. The elderly have a higher risk of developing infectious diseases and are often less responsive to vaccines that are effective in the young. The case fatality rate of invasive meningococcal disease is higher in the elderly; therefore, vaccination for this population should be evaluated. Although new vaccines have been developed againstNeisseria meningitidis, there is still a need to evaluate a vaccine for those older than 60 years, as the currently licensed vaccines are not indicated for this population.