bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous sarcoid‐like drug reaction caused by an anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibitor
Authors: Gleue Casey A. , Shah Kabeer , Wentworth Ashley , Bridges Alina
Published: October 2020

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearranged lung cancers represent 4% to 6% of all pulmonary adenocarcinomas, and echinoderm microtubule associated protein like 4 (EML4)‐ALK fusions are the most common subgroup. Herein, we report a case of two successive drug reactions due to ALK inhibitors. A 69‐year‐old female with stage IVB EML4‐ALK fused lung adenocarcinoma developed a generalized morbilliform eruption 10 days after starting alectinib. Skin biopsy findings were consistent with a drug reaction. Her findings resolved after alectinib was discontinued. Another ALK inhibitor, lorlatinib was started and she developed multiple asymptomatic cutaneous and oral nodules 4 months later. Biopsies from these nodules showed sarcoidal granulomas without evidence of metastases or infection. ALK inhibitors are associated with numerous adverse events, including various cutaneous eruptions. However, a sarcoidal drug reaction involving the skin has not been reported. Identification of drug reactions to targeted therapy can avoid long‐term sequelae and misinterpretation of the clinical findings as disease progression or infection.
A meta‐analysis on the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging and transient elastography in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Gu Qing , Cen Li , Lai Jiawei , Zhang Zhongchen , Pan Jiaqi , Zhao Feng , Yu Chaohui , Li Youming , Chen Chunxiao , Chen Weixing , Shen Zhe
Published: October 2020

Background

Noninvasive methods have been used for the assessment of hepatic steatosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim was to assess the efficacy and accuracy of both magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) and transient elastography(TE) for the evaluation of hepatic steatosis.

Materials and Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE and Web of Science databases were searched to retrieve studies examining the accuracy of MRI‐proton density fat fraction(PDFF) and TE‐controlled attenuation parameter(CAP) for evaluating the grading of steatosis(S0‐S3) diagnosed by liver biopsy in NAFLD. We compared the sensitivity, specificity, hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves(HSROC) and clinical utility of these methods.

Results

Twenty‐four articles with a total of 2979 patients with NAFLD were included. The steatosis distribution was 8.1%/35.1%/32.2%/24.6% for S0/S1/S2/S3. For the diagnostic accuracy of MRI‐PDFF, the HSROCs were 0.97 for ≥S1, 0.91 for ≥S2 and 0.90 for ≥S3. For the diagnostic accuracy of TE‐based CAP, the HSROCs were 0.85 for ≥S1, 0.83 for ≥S2 and 0.79 for ≥S3. Following a ‘positive’ measurement (over the threshold value) for ≥S1, the corresponding post‐test probabilities of PDFF and CAP for the presence of steatosis were 82% and 61%, respectively, when the pretest probability was 24%. If the values were below these thresholds (‘negative’ results), the post‐test probabilities were 3% and 7%.

Conclusion

MRI‐PDFF and TE‐CAP both provide highly accurate noninvasive approaches for quantifying and staging hepatic steatosis in NAFLD. Compared with TE‐CAP, MRI‐PDFF is significantly more accurate for evaluating dichotomized grades of steatosis.
Female politicians in municipal councils and fiscal performance
Authors: Cabaleiro‐Casal Roberto , Buch‐Gómez Enrique
Published: October 2020

Empirical research has tried to explain the effect of female politicians on various outcomes of political institutions. Few studies have focused on how the gender of politicians may affect institutional fiscal performance. Our research shows that both a female mayor, although with limited effect, and a greater share of female councillors worsen the fiscal performance of Spanish municipalities, which contrasts with the hypotheses raised, which were based on the mainstream of theoretical literature. Furthermore, right‐wing female councillors significantly increase the current budgetary imbalances, and female mayors with the same ideology seem to reduce the level of debt per capita.
Brainstem progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Breville Gautier , Koralnik Igor J. , Lalive Patrice H.
Published: October 2020

Background and purpose

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe infection caused by the polyomavirus JC that develops in the central nervous system (CNS) of immunosuppressed patients. The infection frequently starts in the brain hemispheres and can spread into other CNS regions such as the brainstem. Initial isolated PML brainstem lesions are exceptional. We aimed to describe the challenging diagnosis of PML with isolated brainstem lesions at the time of disease onset.

Methods

We describe a case of PML starting with an isolated brainstem lesion and reviewed clinical, radiological, and biological features of all the reported cases of isolated brainstem PML.

Results

Isolated brainstem PML at disease onset is extremely rare. In addition to our case, only nine PML cases presenting with strictly isolated radioanatomical brainstem location at the time of disease onset were retrieved through the literature. All patients share similar brain magnetic resonance imaging features, without contrast enhancement. Eight patients presented with initial clinical worsening, but full recovery occurred in three patients, partial recovery in two, and death in three. Even if prognosis is reserved because of the surrounding vital structures in the brainstem, clinical recovery may occur.

Conclusions

This case report and literature review emphasize that isolated brainstem lesion is an atypical presentation of PML at disease onset.
A high‐throughput genetically directed protein crosslinking analysis reveals the physiological relevance of the ATP synthase ‘inserted’ state
Authors: Liu Yang , Yu Jiayu , Wang Mengyuan , Zeng Qingfang , Fu Xinmiao , Chang Zengyi
Published: October 2020

ATP synthase, a highly conserved protein complex that has a subunit composition of α3β3γδεab2c8–15 for the bacterial enzyme, is a key player in supplying energy to living organisms. This protein complex consists of a peripheral F1 sector (α3β3γδε) and a membrane‐integrated Fo sector (ab2c8–15). Structural analyses of the isolated protein components revealed that, remarkably, the C‐terminal domain of its ε‐subunit seems to adopt two dramatically different structures, but the physiological relevance of this conformational change remains largely unknown. In an attempt to decipher this, we developed a high‐throughput in vivo protein photo‐cross‐linking analysis pipeline based on the introduction of the unnatural amino acid into the target protein via the scarless genome‐targeted site‐directed mutagenesis technique, and probing the cross‐linked products via the high‐throughput polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis technique. Employing this pipeline, we examined the interactions involving the C‐terminal helix of the ε‐subunit in cells living under a variety of experimental conditions. These studies enabled us to uncover that the bacterial ATP synthase exists as an equilibrium between the ‘inserted’ and ‘noninserted’ state in cells, maintaining a moderate but significant level of net ATP synthesis when shifting to the former upon exposing to unfavorable energetically stressful conditions. Such a mechanism allows the bacterial ATP synthases to proportionally and instantly switch between two reversible functional states in responding to changing environmental conditions. Importantly, this high‐throughput approach could allow us to decipher the physiological relevance of protein–protein interactions identified under in vitro conditions or to unveil novel physiological context‐dependent protein–protein interactions that are unknown before.
Passes of the Aleutian Islands: First detailed description
Authors: Zimmermann Mark , Prescott Megan M.
Published: October 2020

We derived the first detailed and accurate estimates of the location, cross‐sectional area, length, and depth of the Aleutian Island passes, which are important bottlenecks for water exchange between the North Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea. Our pass descriptions utilized original bathymetric data from hydrographic smooth sheets, which are of higher resolution than the navigational chart data used for earlier pass size estimates. All of the westernmost Aleutian passes, from Kavalga to Semichi, are larger (18%–71%) than previously reported, including Amchitka Pass (+23%), the largest in the Aleutians. Flow through Chugul Pass, previously reported as the largest pass in the Adak Island area, is blocked on the north side by Great Sitkin and several other islands. Collectively, these smaller passes (Asuksak, Great Sitkin, Yoke, and Igitkin) are only about half the size of Chugul Pass. The important oceanographic and ecological boundary of Samalga Pass occurs in a location where the cumulative openings of the eastern Aleutian passes equal the minimal opening of Shelikof Strait, carrier of the warmer, fresher water of the Alaska Coastal Current that eventually flows northward, through Samalga and the other eastern passes, into the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean.
Development and validation of the NCGG‐FAT Chinese version for community‐dwelling older Taiwanese
Authors: Lee Wei‐Ju , Peng Li‐Ning , Loh Ching‐Hui , Lin Guang‐Zhang , Lee Sangyoon , Shimada Hiroyuki , Arai Hidenori , Chen Liang‐Kung
Published: October 2020

Aim

To evaluate the reliability and validity of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology functional assessment tool (NCGG‐FAT) Chinese version among community‐dwelling older Taiwanese.

Method

In total, 40 community‐living older adults aged ≥65 years with intact global cognitive function (Mini‐Mental State Examination ≥24) were enrolled and received a neuropsychological assessment twice using the computerized NCGG‐FAT Chinese version, with an interval of 30 days to examine test–retest reliability. Conventional neurocognitive assessments were performed for all study participants within a week after the first administration of the NCGG‐FAT Chinese version to determine validity. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were employed to assess test–retest reliability, and the Pearson correlation coefficient evaluated the validity.

Results

In total, 40 participants aged 69.8 ± 3.9 years with a mean education of 11.1 ± 4.2 years and MMSE of 28.5 ± 1.8 were enrolled. The Pearson correlation coefficient showed moderate‐to‐high validity between the conventional neurocognitive assessments and the NCGG‐FAT Chinese version components (r = 0.509–0.606, P < 0.01 for all components). High reliability was also identified in the word recognition (immediate) score (ICC = 0.833, P < 0.001), Trail Making Tests part B (ICC = 0.709, P < 0.001) and Symbol Digit Substitution Task score (ICC = 0.850, P < 0.001), whereas word recall (delayed) score and Trail Making Tests part A showed moderate test–retest reliability.

Conclusions

The NCGG‐FAT Chinese version is a valid and reliable instrument to assess multiple dimensions of neurocognitive function of community‐living Taiwanese, which may facilitate better community‐based screening and intervention programs, particularly for international comparisons. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 1171–1176.
Ketamine‐Magnesium for Refractory Chronic Cluster Headache: A Case Series
Authors: Moisset Xavier , Giraud Pierric , Meunier Estelle , Condé Sakahlé , Périé Maud , Picard Pascale , Pereira Bruno , Ciampi de Andrade Daniel , Clavelou Pierre , Dallel Radhouane
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ketamine‐magnesium combination to reduce attacks in a series of patients with refractory chronic cluster headache (rCCH).

Background

Refractory chronic cluster headache (CCH) is a rare but highly debilitating condition that needs new treatment options. A previous publication reported that a single infusion of ketamine‐magnesium combination was effective in 2 patients with rCCH.

Methods

The treatment was proposed to consecutive patients with rCCH seen in 2 French hospitals between November 2015 and February 2020 and who were resistant to at least 3 preventive treatments. They received a single ketamine infusion (0.5 mg/kg over 2 hours) combined with magnesium sulfate (3000 mg). The main outcome was a comparison of the number of daily attacks 2 weeks prior to the ketamine‐magnesium infusion and 1 week after (on days 7 and 8). The second outcome was the percentage of responders (patients with ≥50% reduction in the frequency of daily attacks). Safety was assessed by the recording of adverse events during infusion. Descriptive statistics are presented as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

Seventeen patients (14 men), with an age of 35.2 ± 8.1 years, were included. They presented with CCH for 6.6 ± 4.3 years. The number of daily attacks decreased from 4.3 ± 2.4 before treatment to 1.3 ± 1.0 after treatment (difference: −3.1 (95% CI: −4.5 to −1.6), P < .001). Seventy six percent (13/17) were responders. Transient and mild sedation was reported by 7/17 patients (41.2%).

Conclusions

The ketamine‐magnesium combination seems an effective and well‐tolerated therapy for rCCH. Placebo‐controlled studies should be conducted to further confirm these findings.
Chromosomal imbalances detected in NTRK‐rearranged sarcomas by the use of comparative genomic hybridisation
Authors: Vargas Ana Cristina , Ardakani Nima M , Wong Daniel D , Maclean Fiona M , Kattampallil Joseph , Boyle Richard , Santos Leonardo , Gill Anthony J
Published: October 2020

Aims

NTRK‐rearranged sarcomas are emerging as a distinct class of sarcomas of particular importance in the era of targeted therapy. The aim of this study was to use array comparative genomic hybridisation (aCGH) to explore the cytogenetic profile of six adult soft tissue sarcomas harbouring NTRK gene fusions.

Methods and results

aCGH was performed on six adult soft tissue sarcomas with proven NTRK rearrangements [NTRK1, n = 1 (TPM3–NTRK1); NTRK2, n = 1 (MTMR2–NTRK2); NTRK3, n = 4 (two ETV6–NTRK3; two with unknown partners). The morphological patterns of these cases included inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour‐like, fibrosarcoma/malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour‐like, and Ewing sarcoma‐like. On the basis of the number of chromosomal copy number variations (CNVs), ranging from two to 15 per sample, NTRK‐associated sarcomas could be subdivided into two groups: one with a relatively simple karyotype (n = 2; median of three genomic alterations), and those with a more complex karyotype (n = 4; median of 11 genomic imbalances). Recurrent chromosomal CNVs included gains at chromosomes 6p, 1q, 7 (whole chromosome), and 12p, and losses at chromosomes 10q, 13q, 19q, and 9p.

Conclusions

NTRK‐rearranged sarcomas constitute a heterogeneous group of tumours that can show a relatively simple or a complex karyotype. Although there were some, but inconsistent, associations between karyotype complexity and morphology, our study showed that a more complex karyotype in this group of tumours appeared to correlate with more aggressive clinical behaviour. Gains at chromosome 6p and 1q were the most common recurrent genomic alterations, being present in 67% of the samples (4/6), followed by gains at chromosome 7, which were present in 50% of the samples (3/6).
The restoration of root filled teeth: a review of the clinical literature
Authors: Bhuva B. , Giovarruscio M. , Rahim N. , Bitter K. , Mannocci F.
Published: October 2020

Clinicians often face dilemmas regarding the most appropriate way to restore a tooth following root canal treatment. Whilst there is established consensus on the importance of the ferrule effect on the predictable restoration of root filled teeth, other factors, such as residual tooth volume, tooth location, number of proximal contacts, timing of the definitive restoration and the presence of cracks, have been reported to influence restoration and tooth survival. The continued evolution of dental materials and techniques, combined with a trend towards more conservative endodontic‐restorative procedures, prompts re‐evaluation of the scientific literature. The aim of this literature review was to provide an updated overview of the existing clinical literature relating to the restoration of root filled teeth. An electronic literature search of the PubMed, Ovid (via EMBASE) and MEDLINE (via EMBASE) databases up to July 2020 was performed to identify articles that related the survival of root filled teeth and/or restoration type. The following and other terms were searched: restoration, crown, onlay, root canal, root filled, post, clinical, survival, success. Wherever possible, only clinical studies were selected for the literature review. Full texts of the identified articles were independently screened by two reviewers according to pre‐defined criteria. This review identifies the main clinical factors influencing the survival of teeth and restorations following root canal treatment in vivo and discusses the data related to specific restoration type on clinical survival.
Melanomas of the scalp: is hair coverage preventing early diagnosis?
Authors: Pereira Amanda Regio , Collgros Helena , Guitera Pascale , Benati Elisa , Longo Caterina , Argenziano Giuseppe , Dika Emi , Lambertini Martina , Menzies Scott W. , Lobato Williams Angela , Gallo Bruna M. , Hirata Sergio H.
Published: October 2020

Background

Scalp melanomas are usually thicker and show worse prognosis than other sites and other head and neck melanomas. One hypothesis to explain this aggressive behavior could be diagnosis delay attributed to hair concealment of lesions.

Methods

Primary melanomas of the scalp diagnosed over two decades at four reference centers in Australia and Italy were included. Hair coverage and visibility of the lesions were assessed on preoperative photographic documentation by two investigators and correlated with some prognostic factors (Breslow thickness, mitotic rate, and ulceration). Patients records and pathology reports provided clinical and histological data.

Results

The majority of 113 melanomas included were located on easily visible areas of the scalp – hairless scalp (49%) or hairline (15%). The remaining ones (36%), considered to be hair‐covered, showed more frequently thinning of hair (63%) than a dense hair coverage (37%). Melanomas of “hairy scalps” were more frequently invasive (81%) and had higher median Breslow (0.8 ± 1.3 mm) than those arising on bald scalps or areas with thinning of hair (43%; 0 ± 0.6 mm), P = 0.004. However, when considering only the invasive cases (n = 55), Breslow thickness and mitotic rate were not statistically different between concealed and easily visible areas. Melanomas detected by a doctor were thinner than those first noticed by the patient, relatives, or a hairdresser (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Most scalp melanomas arose on easily visible areas, which are more prone to ultraviolet damage. Hair‐covered ones, despite rare, could be overlooked during examination. Proactive screening of the scalp area should be encouraged.
Influenza and COVID‐19: What does co‐existence mean?
Authors: Chotpitayasunondh Tawee , Fischer Thea Kølsen , Heraud Jean‐Michel , Hurt Aeron C. , Monto Arnold S. , Osterhaus Albert , Shu Yuelong , Tam John S.
Published: October 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 continues to have a major impact on healthcare and social systems throughout the world. As the clinical and epidemiological features of COVID‐19 have many parallels with influenza, it is important to ensure optimal management of both respiratory diseases as we anticipate their continued co‐circulation. In particular, there is a need to ensure that effective surveillance and diagnostic capacities are in place to monitor these and other respiratory viruses, as this will underpin decisions on the appropriate clinical management of the respective diseases. As such, we propose a series of key recommendations for stakeholders, public health authorities, primary care physicians and surveillance bodies that will help mitigate the combined risks of concurrent influenza epidemics and the COVID‐19 pandemic. We advocate the judicious use of influenza vaccines and antivirals, particularly among groups at high risk of complications, with healthcare workers also considered a priority for vaccination. It is likely that the increased use of emerging technologies such as telemedicine and contact tracing will permanently change our approach to managing infectious disease. The use of these technologies, alongside existing pharmaceutical strategies, will ensure that we achieve a holistic approach to the global public health measures needed to deal with the combined threat of influenza and COVID‐19. Ensuring that this approach is optimal will be key as we move from a reactive pandemic response towards preparing for the long‐term management of the remarkable clinical burden associated with these respiratory pathogens.
Health insurance risk assessment using cognitive mapping and multiple‐criteria decision analysis
Authors: Fernandes Hugo E. M. , Ferreira Fernando A. F.
Published: October 2020

Health insurance risk analysis is crucial to the development of the insurance industry, allowing insurance companies to anticipate potential losses in health insurance's inverted product life cycle. The health insurance risk evaluation process is, however, carried out in various ways, which limits the application of transparency, fairness, and justice principles in the calculation of risk rewards. By combining cognitive mapping and measuring attractiveness by a categorical‐based evaluation technique (i.e., MACBETH, a multiple‐criteria decision analysis technique), this study sought to create a nonparametric and distinctive decision support system for individual private health insurance risk analysis. The proposed system facilitates greater transparency in the calculation of health insurance risk rewards. The results of a real‐world application of this system were analyzed and discussed in face‐to‐face group meetings with independent experts who work for two of the largest insurance companies in Portugal, thereby incorporating realism into the proposed evaluation mechanism. The advantages and limitations of this assessment framework are also discussed.
Atomistic modeling approach to the thermodynamics of sodium silicate glasses
Authors: Fossati Paul C. M. , Mellan Thomas A. , Kuganathan Navaratnarajah , Lee William E.
Published: October 2020

A good description of the vibration modes of silicate glasses is necessary for the accurate determination of their thermodynamical properties. While the properties of amorphous SiO2 are well‐known, those of more complex silicate glasses remain poorly described. In this work, the atomic‐scale models have been used to investigate the vibration modes and thermodynamical properties of amorphous sodium silicate (Na2O)x(SiO2)1−x. Several empirical potentials have been considered, and their predictions have been compared to available experimental data. Different Na2O concentrations have also been simulated, highlighting the effect of sodium network modifiers on vibration spectra and thermodynamical properties. Statistical effects related to the simulation box size have been investigated, which helps interpreting quantitative results from simulations based on small systems, for example, electronic structure calculations. The potentials used can describe different oxides besides SiO2 and Na2O. The results presented here pave the way for future use of these potentials to study more complex glasses with different types of network formers and modifiers.
Nondestructive measurements of residual stress in air plasma‐sprayed thermal barrier coatings
Authors: Jiang Peng , Yang Liuyu , Sun Yongle , Li Dingjun , Wang Tiejun
Published: October 2020

Premature spallation of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) is a critical issue during the service of gas turbines, and nondestructive evaluation is crucial to address this problem. Herein, a novel approach that indicates delamination by measuring the residual stress evolution of thermally grown oxide (TGO) for air plasma spraying (APS) TBCs is proposed and verified via the combination of photoluminescence piezo‐spectroscopy (PLPS) and X‐ray computed tomography. A mineral‐oil‐impregnating approach and a cold‐mount low‐shrinkage epoxy‐mounting approach are used to alleviate the signal attenuation by pores and microcracks in APS TBCs, improving the detectable PLPS signal and X‐ray transmission for stress measurement and delamination characterization, respectively. We have nondestructively measured the TGO residual stress mapping in APS TBCs and its evolution with oxidation. Furthermore, the evolution of TGO morphology and critical microcracks are obtained by X‐ray computed tomography. The synchronous evolution of TGO residual stress, TGO thickness, and critical microcracks as a function of oxidation time is obtained and correlated. The transition point, as experimentally identified, at which the TGO stress starts to drop, agrees well with the critical moment of microcrack coalescence. This directly verifies that the TBC delamination can be effectively indicated by residual stress evolution of TGO in APS TBCs.
How the ‘kitome’ influences the characterization of bacterial communities in lepidopteran samples with low bacterial biomass
Authors: Paniagua Voirol L.R. , Valsamakis G. , Yu M. , Johnston P.R. , Hilker M.
Published: October 2020

Aims

We aimed to elucidate whether the DNA extraction kit and bacteria therein affect the characterization of bacterial communities associated with butterfly samples harbouring different bacterial abundancies.

Methods and Results

We analysed bacteria associated with eggs of Pieris brassicae and with adults of this butterfly, which were either untreated or treated with antibiotics (ABs). Three DNA extraction kits were used. Regardless of the extraction kit used, PCR amplification of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene detected very low bacterial presence in eggs and AB-treated butterflies. In untreated butterflies, bacterial signal intensity varied according to the kit and primers used. Sequencing (MiSeq) of the bacterial communities in untreated and AB-treated butterflies revealed a low alpha diversity in untreated butterflies because of the dominance of few bacteria genera, which were detectable regardless of the kit. However, a significantly greater alpha diversity was found in AB-treated butterflies, evidencing a true bias of the results due to bacterial contaminants in the kit.

Conclusions

The so-called ‘kitome’ can impact the profiling of Lepidoptera-associated bacteria in samples with low bacterial biomass.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Our study highlights the necessity of method testing and analysis of negative controls when investigating Lepidoptera-associated bacterial communities.
LncRNA HCG11/miR‐26b‐5p/QKI5 feedback loop reversed high glucose‐induced proliferation and angiogenesis inhibition of HUVECs
Authors: Du Jiao , Han Ruijuan , Li Yihua , Liu Xiaolin , Liu Shurong , Cai Zhenyu , Xu Zhaolong , Li Ya , Yuan Xuchun , Guo Xiuhai , Lu Bin , Sun Kai
Published: October 2020

Acute coronary syndrome caused by the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques is one of the primary causes of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. Neovascularization within the plaque is closely associated with its stability. Long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) serves a crucial role in regulating vascular endothelial cells (VECs) proliferation and angiogenesis. In this study, we identified lncRNA HCG11, which is highly expressed in patients with vulnerable plaque compared with stable plaque. Then, functional experiments showed that HCG11 reversed high glucose‐induced vascular endothelial injury through increased cell proliferation and tube formation. Meanwhile, vascular‐related RNA‐binding protein QKI5 was greatly activated. Luciferase reporter assays and RNA‐binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays verified interaction between them. Interestingly, HCG11 can also positively regulated by QKI5. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays showed HCG11 can worked as a competing endogenous RNA by sponging miR‐26b‐5p, and QKI5 was speculated as the target of miR‐26b‐5p. Taken together, our findings revered that the feedback loop of lncRNA HCG11/miR‐26b‐5p/QKI‐5 played a vital role in the physiological function of HUVECs, and this also provide a potential target for therapeutic strategies of As.
Spatial propagation and patterns of abundance ofDryocosmus kuriphilusthroughout an invaded region
Authors: Gil‐Tapetado Diego , Castedo‐Dorado Fernando , Lombardero María J. , Martel José , Álvarez‐Álvarez Pedro
Published: October 2020

Dryocosmus kuriphilus(Hymenoptera: Cynipidae) was first detected in Galicia (NW Spain) in 2014. The wasp then began to spread by stratified dispersal, with the local abundance increasing thereafter. In this study, we analysed location data on wasp‐attacked trees, with the following aims: (i) to determine the relative importance of short distance dispersal (SDD) and long‐distance dispersal (LDD) on the geographical expansion of the wasp; and (ii) to assess whether the spatial clusters of areas with high and low numbers of attacked trees correspond to areas with different infestation levels and thus whether these areas can be considered suitable proxies for pest abundance. A Random Forest algorithm was used to identify the factors that best discriminate hotspot and coldspot areas. Distance matrix analysis was used considering a conservative expansion rate of the population front of 14 km/year as the threshold for distinguishing SDD and LDD events. Gradients of attacked tree abundance were delineated using the Getis‐Ord Gi* statistic. Although LDD events represented a small proportion of the locally dispersing offspring, they determined the rate of spread across the landscape. The infestation level differed significantly between hotspot and coldspot areas, which were therefore used as proxies forD. kuriphiluspopulation abundance. Factors that were favourable or unfavourable in relation to population abundance were mainly associated with maximum temperatures in the summer months. Metrics of composition and configuration of host plant habitat proved less important than the time since invasion and the effect was partly masked by tree diversity at community scale.
Abundant Chitinous Structures in Chilostomella (Foraminifera, Rhizaria) and Their Potential Functions
Authors: Nomaki Hidetaka , Chen Chong , Oda Kaya , Tsuchiya Masashi , Tame Akihiro , Uematsu Katsuyuki , Isobe Noriyuki
Published: October 2020

Benthic foraminifera, members of Rhizaria, inhabit a broad range of marine environments and are particularly common in hypoxic sediments. The biology of benthic foraminifera is key to understanding benthic ecosystems and relevant biogeochemical cycles, especially in hypoxic environments. Chilostomella is a foraminiferal genus commonly found in hypoxic deep‐sea sediments and has poorly understood ecological characteristics. For example, the carbon isotopic compositions of their lipids are substantially different from other co‐occurring genera, probably reflecting unique features of its metabolism. Here, we investigated the cytoplasmic and ultrastructural features of Chilostomella ovoidea from bathyal sediments of Sagami Bay, Japan, based on serial semi‐thin sections examined using an optical microscope followed by a three‐dimensional reconstruction, combined with TEM observations of ultra‐thin sections. Observations by TEM revealed the presence of abundant electron‐dense structures dividing the cytoplasm. Based on histochemical staining, these structures are shown to be composed of chitin. Our 3D reconstruction revealed chitinous structures in the final seven chambers. These exhibited a plate‐like morphology in the final chambers but became rolled up in earlier chambers (toward the proloculus). These chitinous, plate‐like structures may function to partition the cytoplasm in a chamber to increase the surface/volume ratio and/or act as a reactive site for some metabolic functions.
Intraspecific variation in inhibitory motor control in guppies, Poecilia reticulata
Authors: Macario Alessandro , Darden Safi K. , Verbruggen Frederick , Croft Darren P.
Published: October 2020

Inhibitory control (IC) is the ability to overcome impulsive or prepotent but ineffective responses in favour of more appropriate behaviours. The ability to inhibit internal predispositions or external temptations is vital in coping with a complex and variable world. Traditionally viewed as cognitively demanding and a main component of executive functioning and self‐control, IC was historically examined in only a few species of birds and mammals but recently a number of studies has shown that a much wider range of taxa rely on IC. Furthermore, there is growing evidence that inhibitory abilities may vary within species at the population and individual levels owing to genetic and environmental factors. Here we use a detour‐reaching task, a standard paradigm to measure motor inhibition in nonhuman animals, to quantify patterns of interindividual variation in IC in wild‐descendant female guppies, Poecilia reticulata. We found that female guppies displayed inhibitory performances that were, on average, half as successful as the performances reported previously for other strains of guppies tested in similar experimental conditions. Moreover, we showed consistent individual variation in the ability to inhibit inappropriate behaviours. Our results contribute to the understanding of the evolution of fish cognition and suggest that IC may show considerable variation among populations within a species. Such variation in IC abilities might contribute to individual differences in other cognitive functions such as spatial learning, quantity discrimination or reversal learning.
Mycoplasma infections in freshwater carnivorous fishes in Hungary
Authors: Sellyei Boglárka , Varga Zsuzsanna , Cech Gábor , Varga Ádám , Székely Csaba
Published: October 2020

The abundance of mycoplasma‐like microorganisms seems to be common in the intestinal tract of fish, but their occurrence in other organs can be considered pathological. Isolation of piscine mycoplasmas is essential to prove their virulence. In this study, a total of 100 specimens of nine freshwater fish species collected from natural waters and fish farms were analysed for the prevalence of mycoplasmas in different extraintestinal organs. Our results demonstrate that mycoplasmas are present in carnivorous fish (pike, wels catfish, black bullhead and pike perch) than in cyprinids more frequently. Among the surveyed organs, they colonize mainly the gills, the kidney and the livers. Although mycoplasmas could be detected in one‐fifth of samples by molecular assays, the isolation of mycoplasmas belonged to the M. sualvi cluster within the hominis group of Mycoplasmataceae, but was separate from M. mobile, has been successful only from some specimens originated from wels catfish that was feasible only by special preparation steps (prefreezing, filter sterilization and incubation conditions (long culturing period, etc.). The low‐efficiency of isolation trials indicates an extensive gap in our knowledge about piscine mycoplasmas, especially in the field of their nutritional requirements.
Three‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics modeling of baking of chhana podo (milk cake)
Authors: Salish Karthik , Pushpadass Heartwin A. , Franklin Magdaline Eljeeva Emerald , Mitra Hrishikesh , Muniandy Sivaram , Ghosh Bikash C
Published: October 2020

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling was used to study the air velocity distribution and analyze the unsteady heat transfer and temperature distribution pattern during baking of chhana podo (milk cake). At first, a 3‐D geometry of the baking oven was created, and discrete ordinates (DO) radiation model was employed to predict the distribution of temperature. The data on progressive changes in thermal properties of chhana podo dough during baking were fed into the CFD model. The DO model was found to be adequate to predict the distribution of temperature in the product, with root mean squared error (RMSE) of 1.122 and mean percent relative deviation modulus (%P) of 0.70. Similarly, the DO model was found to be adequate to predict the air temperature distribution in the oven, with RMSE of 1.842 and %P of 1.61. The distribution of air velocity inside the oven was predicted using k‐ω turbulence model. The air velocity near the oven door was 0.505 m/s, whereas it was 5.002 m/s near the fan. Simulation results provided some insights on the effect of spatial location on air velocity. The placement of chhana podo inside the oven was optimized based on this simulation. This CFD simulation has potential application in the design of ovens with enhanced heat transfer and thermal efficiency.

Practical Applications

The present work models the heat transfer during baking of chhana podo. Even though a lot of research works related to CFD to products such as bread are available, many studies have not comprehensively considered temperature distribution in the oven, air velocity distribution and heat transfer in the product. The thermo‐physical properties of the product were modeled with respect to temperature and given as inputs into the CFD model. The CFD simulation of air velocity distribution inside the baking chamber will be useful in optimizing the placement of product or dough for uniform baking. The air velocity and heat transfer simulations quantified the diffusion of heat inside the product. This CFD simulation study could be useful in optimization and design of baking ovens for various products. Also, simulation of the baking conditions of a product could be advantageous from the economic perspective.
Cognition and Political Ideology in Aging
Authors: Fisher Mark , Phoenix Davin , Powell Sierra , Mousa Myrna , Rosenberg Shawn , Greenia Dana , Corrada Maria M. , Kawas Claudia , Paganini‐Hill Annlia
Published: October 2020

Objective

The impact of cognitive function and decline on political ideology is unknown. We studied the relationship between cognition and both political orientation and political policy choices in a population of older persons.

Design

Longitudinal investigation.

Setting

A retirement community and its surroundings in Southern California.

Participants

151 members of a longitudinal investigation of aging and dementia in the oldest‐old (the 90+ Study), mean age 95 years.

Measurements

Participants self‐reported their political ideology (7‐point scale from extremely liberal to extremely conservative) and policy preferences for federal spending on public schooling, aid to the poor, and protecting the environment, as well as on preferences on immigration rates, death penalty, and university admission. The same political survey was mailed to participants twice: at time one and 6‐months later. Cognitive function based on neurological examination and cognitive testing was classified as normal (55%), cognitive impairment/not dementia (CIND) (33%), or dementia (12%). We calculated rank correlations between ideology and policy choices, stratified by cognitive status, and agreement between Surveys 1 and 2.

RESULTS

Political ideology/orientation was highly consistent over a six‐month period (84% agreement) among the 122 who returned the second survey, with no significant relationship to cognitive status. Among cognitively impaired (CIND and dementia), however, there was significant loss of consistency between an individual's political orientation and their policy choices. Level of political engagement was high for participants, with more than 90% voting in the 2016 presidential election.

Conclusion

In this population of older persons, political identification on the liberal‐conservative spectrum was resilient despite cognitive decline, but its meaning and function were changed. For the cognitively impaired it remained a self‐defining label, but no longer operated as a higher order framework for orienting specific policy preferences. There appeared to be loss of coherence between the political orientation and political policy choices of cognitively impaired individuals. Given the high level of political engagement of these individuals, these results have substantial public policy implications.
Administration of skin care regimens containing β‐glucan for skin recovery after fractional laser therapy: A split‐face, double‐blinded, vehicle‐controlled study
Authors: Cao Yajing , Wang Peiru , Zhang Guolong , Hu Chan , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Xiuli
Published: October 2020

Background

Laser therapies have brought dawn to refractory skin diseases, but also were accompanied by postlaser inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction. To recover skin function quickly, the research and development of active ingredients including β‐glucan for postlaser repair have attracted much attention.

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of skin care regimens containing β‐glucan (Dermdoc®;Songyang Biotech) in repairing postlaser inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction after fractional laser therapy.

Methods

A total of 20 patients with facial atrophic acne scars who accepted fractional laser therapy were recruited: 10 patients treated with ablative fractional CO2 laser and 10 patients treated with 1565nm nonablative fractional laser. Using the method of split‐face vehicle‐control study, the left half of the face was served as the treatment side and accepted skin care regimens, and the right half was control side accepted vehicle. Noninvasive bioinstrumentation of skin hydration index, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and hemoglobin index (E value) was detected in the study. Standard digital photographs were taken at each visit. The skin tolerance and adverse effect were also evaluated by subject questionnaire.

Results

Compared with the control side, the Hemoglobin index (E value) of the treatment side was improved more significantly on the 7th day (P < .05). The skin hydration index of the treatment side was better than that of the control side on the 7th and 14th day (P < .05). After treatment, the TEWL of the treatment side on the 7th day was statistically significantly lower than that of the control side (P < .05). In the subject self‐assessment questionnaires, 63.2% thought the repair effect of β‐glucan regimens was better than that of vehicle. The skin care regimens were well tolerated without obvious side reactions.

Conclusion

The skin care regimens containing β‐glucan may play a positive role in accelerating the recovery of skin inflammation and barrier function after fractional laser therapy.
Topical β‐blockers for pyogenic granulomas: A promising option for younger patients
Authors: El‐Taweel Abd El‐Aziz Ibrahim , Al‐Refaie Abdul‐Aziz Abdul‐Salam Ahmed , Salem Khalid Hamdy Awad , Salem Rehab Mohammed
Published: October 2020

Background

Topical β‐blockers, propranolol, and timolol were used for pyogenic granuloma (PG) treatment; however, their efficacies and safety profiles were not compared.

Aims

The aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of propranolol 1% and timolol 0.5% creams in the treatment of pyogenic granulomas.

Patients

The study included 30 PG patients. They were divided into three groups (10 patients each). Group I patients received propranolol 1% cream. Group II patients used timolol 0.5% l cream. Group III patients used placebo cream. Creams were applied twice daily for 2 months. Patients were followed up for 3 months to detect any recurrence.

Results

Complete resolution was reported in 6 patients of groups I and II, while none of the control patients reported complete resolution. Despite the absent change in lesions' size in 40% of β‐blockers treated groups, they all reported decreased bleeding tendency. There was insignificant difference between the clinical responses between β‐blockers groups. No recurrence was reported in any of the patients who achieved complete resolution after 3 months of follow‐up. Younger patients respond better to β‐blockers. Three patients were deteriorated on beta‐blockers treatment.

Conclusion

β‐blockers are a promising PG treatment option in cases where invasive modalities are not desirable especially in younger patients.
New tuberculosis vaccines: advances in clinical development and modelling
Authors: Weerasuriya C. K. , Clark R. A. , White R. G. , Harris R. C.
Published: October 2020

Tuberculosis remains a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with 10 million cases and 1.5 million deaths in 2018. Achieving ‘End TB’ prevention and care goals by 2035 will likely require a new tuberculosis vaccine. The tuberculosis vaccine development pipeline has seen encouraging progress; however, questions around their population impact and implementation remain. Mathematical modelling investigates these questions to inform vaccine development and deployment strategies. We provide an update on the current vaccine development pipeline, and a systematic literature review of mathematical modelling of the epidemiological impact of new tuberculosis vaccines. Fourteen prophylactic tuberculosis vaccine candidates are currently in clinical trials. Two candidates have shown promise in phase II proof‐of‐concept efficacy trials: M72/AS01E demonstrated 49.7% (95% CI; 2.1, 74.2) protection against tuberculosis disease, and BCG revaccination demonstrated 45.4% (95% CI; 6.4, 68.1) protection against sustained Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Since the last modelling review, new studies have investigated the epidemiological impact of differential vaccine characteristics, age targeting and spatial/risk group targeting. Critical research priorities for M72/AS01E include completing the currently in‐design trial, powered to improve the precision of efficacy estimates, include uninfected populations and further assess safety and immunogenicity in HIV‐infected people. For BCG revaccination, the priority is completing the ongoing confirmation of efficacy trial. Critical modelling gaps remain on the full value proposition of vaccines, comparisons with other interventions and more realistic implementation strategies. Using carefully designed trials and modelling, we must prepare for success, to ensure that new vaccines will be promptly received by those most in need.
Undocumented Mothers and Work–Family Conflict in Restrictive Policy Contexts
Authors: Straut‐Eppsteiner Holly
Published: October 2020

Objective

This research examines how undocumented Latina mothers negotiate work–family conflict amid restrictive immigration policies.

Background

Women in the United States continue to contend with tension between work and family and poor women face particular constraints. Latina immigrants have increasingly settled and formed families in the United States and joined the labor market in low‐wage occupations. Unlike U.S.‐born women, these women must contend with restrictive immigration policies, suggesting new areas for understanding the intersectional inequalities that shape work–family conflict.

Method

Findings are based on in‐depth interviews conducted with 45 Latina immigrant mothers in North Carolina who had paid labor market experience. Interview topics included family, work, and migration across women's life histories.

Results

Place‐specific policy contexts, working conditions, patriarchal expectations, and lacking access to care networks challenge Latina immigrants' ability to fulfill the dual motherhood roles they occupy as both family providers and caregivers and nurturers for their children.

Conclusion

The social expectations of motherhood add a dimension of precarity to women's vulnerable status as undocumented workers and demonstrate the gendered impact of immigration policies.

Implications

Restrictive policies make it increasingly difficult for undocumented women to obtain or move between jobs in the low‐wage labor market. Findings highlight the importance of considering immigration status in studies of work–family conflict, particularly as policies targeting immigrants intensify.