bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bank Monitoring and Financial Reporting Quality: The Case of Accounts Receivable–Based Loans*
Authors: Frankel Richard , Kim Bong Hwan , Ma Tao , Martin Xiumin
Published: March 2020

Using novel receivable‐based loan data, we study the effect of aging‐report loan covenants on borrowers' accounts receivable reporting quality. Our purpose is to highlight a channel that lenders use to obtain private information and to understand whether lenders' information acquisition affects the financial reporting quality of borrowers. Compared to receivable‐based borrowers without aging‐report requirements (control firms), borrowers with such requirements (test firms) increase their receivable reporting quality significantly after loan initiations. The shift in reporting quality is more pronounced when borrowers have weak bargaining power. Our results lend support to the argument that lender information access affects borrowers' reporting quality.
Psychiatric Comorbidity as a Function of Severity: DSM‐5 Alcohol Use Disorder and HiTOP Classification of Mental Disorders
Authors: Helle Ashley C. , Trull Timothy J. , Watts Ashley L. , McDowell Yoanna , Sher Kenneth J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Understanding the comorbidity of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and other psychiatric diagnoses has been a long‐standing interest of researchers and mental health professionals. Comorbidity is often examined via the diagnostic co‐occurrence of discrete, categorical diagnoses, which is incongruent with increasingly supported dimensional approaches of psychiatric classification and diagnosis, and for AUD more specifically. The present study examined associations between DSM‐5 AUD and psychiatric symptoms of other DSM‐IV and DSM‐5 disorders categorically, and dimensionally organized according to the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) spectra (e.g., Internalizing, Disinhibited Externalizing).

Methods

The comorbidity of AUD with other psychological disorders was examined in 2 independent nationally representative samples of past‐year drinkers via an initial examination in the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) Wave 2 and replicated in NESARC‐III.

Results

Analyses focusing on psychopathology symptom counts organized by spectra demonstrated that greater AUD severity was associated with a higher number of symptoms across HiTOP spectra. Traditional categorical analyses also demonstrated increasing prevalence as a monotonic function of DSM‐5 AUD severity gradients.

Conclusions

This study indicates that AUD and other psychiatric disorder comorbidity implies increased presence of multiple forms of psychopathology with a corresponding increased number of symptoms across hierarchical spectra. Greater AUD severity increases the likelihood of other psychopathology and, when present, “more severe” presentations. That is, on average, a given disorder (e.g., depression) is more severe when copresenting with an AUD, and increases in severity along with the AUD.
Socio‐Spatial Strategies of Worker Centres: An Ethnography of Alt‐Labour in NYC
Authors: Roca Beltrán
Published: March 2020

This article examines the typology of worker centres from a socio‐spatial perspective. Drawing on ethnographic and qualitative fieldwork and applying the multidimensional TPSN (Territory, Place, Scale and Network) framework, it analyses three worker centres: Make the Road New York (MRNY), Retail Action Project (RAP) and Laundry Workers Center (LWC). Each model is the result of the predominance of certain logics of action, political strategies, and spatialities. The multidimensional socio‐spatial approach allows us to identify the advantages and problems of each strategy. MRNY shows a territory‐based strategy that combines membership participation with effective advocacy on different scales. RAP, despite focusing on services, has been able to overcome the fragmentation of the retail industry and escalate to regulating labour relations at the industry level. LWC prioritises workplace organising and shows a high level of experimentalism and grassroots base, although the results of their irradiation strategy are very modest.
Under pressure: Evolution of the social economy institutional recognition in the EU
Authors: Bassi Andrea , Fabbri Alessandro
Published: March 2020

Social Economy encompasses a wide array of private organizations that can be situated along a continuum that ranges from civil society to the business sector, e.g., associations, foundations, cooperatives, social enterprises, social business initiatives. The social sphere populated by SE/TS organizations operates in complex and multi‐layer environments and is particularly sensitive to institutional configuration. This paper deals with the institutional policy and attitude of the EU Commission towards SE/TS organizations in the field of welfare policy. We start with an illustration of the key features of the Social Investment policy framework, that stresses the adoption of an ‘active policy’ orientation and the overriding of more traditional ‘compensatory policies’. Secondly, we analyze the regulatory eco‐system of the EU towards Social Economy in the last three decades. Thirdly, we present the main results of an European research project aimed at analyzing the ‘level of recognition’ and ‘institutionalization’ of the SE sector in ten European Countries. Then, we provide some data about the consistency of the Social Economy in EU, based on several research reports promoted  by European Institutions (EESC). Finally, the main results of the analysis are summarized in order to assess the current conjuncture of the Social Economy sector in Europe.
Massage as a mechanotherapy promotes skeletal muscle protein and ribosomal turnover but does not mitigate muscle atrophy during disuse in adult rats
Authors: Lawrence Marcus M. , Van Pelt Douglas W. , Confides Amy L. , Hunt Emily R. , Hettinger Zachary R. , Laurin Jaime L. , Reid Justin J. , Peelor Frederick F. , Butterfield Timothy A. , Dupont‐Versteegden Esther E. , Miller Benjamin F.
Published: March 2020

Aim

Interventions that decrease atrophy during disuse are desperately needed to maintain muscle mass. We recently found that massage as a mechanotherapy can improve muscle regrowth following disuse atrophy. Therefore, we aimed to determine if massage has similar anabolic effects when applied during normal weight bearing conditions (WB) or during atrophy induced by hindlimb suspension (HS) in adult rats.

Methods

Adult (10 months) male Fischer344‐Brown Norway rats underwent either hindlimb suspension (HS, n = 8) or normal WB (WB, n = 8) for 7 days. Massage was applied using cyclic compressive loading (CCL) in WB (WBM, n = 9) or HS rats (HSM, n = 9) and included four 30‐minute bouts of CCL applied to gastrocnemius muscle every other day.

Results

Massage had no effect on any anabolic parameter measured under WB conditions (WBM). In contrast, massage during HS (HSM) stimulated protein turnover, but did not mitigate muscle atrophy. Atrophy from HS was caused by both lowered protein synthesis and higher degradation. HS and HSM had lowered total RNA compared with WB and this was the result of significantly higher ribosome degradation in HS that was attenuated in HSM, without differences in ribosomal biogenesis. Also, massage increased protein turnover in the non‐massaged contralateral limb during HS. Finally, we determined that total RNA degradation primarily dictates loss of muscle ribosomal content during disuse atrophy.

Conclusion

We conclude that massage is an effective mechanotherapy to impact protein turnover during muscle disuse in both the massaged and non‐massaged contralateral muscle, but it does not attenuate the loss of muscle mass.
Identification of relapse‐associated gene mutations by next‐generation sequencing in low‐risk acute myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Prieto‐Conde María Isabel , Jiménez Cristina , García‐Álvarez María , Ramos Fernando , Medina Alejandro , Cuello Rebeca , Balanzategui Ana , Alonso José M. , Sarasquete Maria Eugenia , Queizán José Antonio , Alcoceba Miguel , Bárez Abelardo , Puig Noemí , Cantalapiedra Alberto , Gutiérrez Norma C. , García‐Sanz Ramón , González‐Díaz Marcos , Chillón María Carmen
Published: March 2020

Recommended genetic categorization of acute myeloid leukaemias (AML) includes a favourable‐risk category, but not all these patients have good prognosis. Here, we used next‐generation sequencing to evaluate the mutational profile of 166 low‐risk AML patients: 30 core‐binding factor (CBF)‐AMLs, 33 nucleophosmin (NPM1)‐AMLs, 4 biCEBPα‐AMLs and 101 acute promyelocytic leukaemias (APLs). Functional categories of mutated genes differed among subgroups. NPM1‐AMLs showed frequent variations in DNA‐methylation genes (DNMT3A, TET2, IDH1/2) (79%), although without prognostic impact. Within this group, splicing‐gene mutations were an independent factor for relapse‐free (RFS) and overall survival (OS). In CBF‐AML, poor independent factors for RFS and OS were mutations in RAS pathway and cohesin genes, respectively. In APL, the mutational profile differed according to the risk groups. High‐risk APLs showed a high mutation rate in cell‐signalling genes (P = 0·002), highlighting an increased incidence of FLT3 internal tandem duplication (ITD) (65%, P < 0·0001). Remarkably, in low‐risk APLs (n = 28), NRAS mutations were strongly correlated with a shorter five‐year RFS (25% vs. 100%, P < 0·0001). Overall, a high number of mutations (≥3) was the worst prognostic factor RFS (HR = 2·6, P = 0·003). These results suggest that gene mutations may identify conventional low‐risk AML patients with poor prognosis and might be useful for better risk stratification and treatment decisions.
Developing Technician Skills for Innovative Industries: Theory, Evidence from the UK Life Sciences Industry, and Policy Implications
Authors: Lewis Paul
Published: March 2020

This article explores how innovative firms attempt to acquire the skilled technicians needed to deploy new technologies. Interviews with 40 employers from the UK life sciences sector reveal that shortages of technicians, an awareness of the importance of practical skills best acquired through work‐based learning, and increasing dissatisfaction with the use of graduates, are encouraging employers to turn towards apprenticeship training. However, the rules governing the funding of various kinds of education and training discourage providers from offering the kinds of apprenticeships increasingly sought by employers, giving rise to a ‘system failure’ that manifests itself in shortages of technicians and the use of over‐qualified graduates in technician roles.
Straight from the source's mouth: Controls on field‐constrained sediment export across the entire active Corinth Rift, central Greece
Authors: Watkins Stephen E. , Whittaker Alexander C. , Bell Rebecca E. , Brooke Sam A. S. , Ganti Vamsi , Gawthorpe Robert L. , McNeill Lisa C. , Nixon Casey W.
Published: March 2020

The volume and grain‐size of sediment supplied from catchments fundamentally control basin stratigraphy. Despite their importance, few studies have constrained sediment budgets and grain‐size exported into an active rift at the basin scale. Here, we used the Corinth Rift as a natural laboratory to quantify the controls on sediment export within an active rift. In the field, we measured the hydraulic geometries, surface grain‐sizes of channel bars and full‐weighted grain‐size distributions of river sediment at the mouths of 47 catchments draining the rift (constituting 83% of the areal extent). Results show that the sediment grain‐size increases westward along the southern coast of the Gulf of Corinth, with the coarse‐fraction grain‐sizes (84th percentile of weighted grain‐size distribution) ranging from approximately 19 to 91 mm. We find that the median and coarse‐fraction of the sieved grain‐size distribution are primarily controlled by bedrock lithology, with late Quaternary uplift rates exerting a secondary control. Our results indicate that grain‐size export is primarily controlled by the input grain‐size within the catchment and subsequent abrasion during fluvial transport, both quantities that are sensitive to catchment lithology. We also demonstrate that the median and coarse‐fraction of the grain‐size distribution are predominantly transported in bedload; however, typical sand‐grade particles are transported as suspended load at bankfull conditions, suggesting disparate source‐to‐sink transit timescales for sand and gravel. Finally, we derive both a full Holocene sediment budget and a grain‐size‐specific bedload discharged into the Gulf of Corinth using the grain‐size measurements and previously published estimates of sediment fluxes and volumes. Results show that the bedload sediment budget is primarily comprised (~79%) of pebble to cobble grade (0.475–16 cm). Our results suggest that the grain‐size of sediment export at the rift scale is particularly sensitive to catchment lithology and fluvial mophodynamics, which complicates our ability to make direct inferences of tectonic and palaeoenvironmental forcing from local stratigraphic characteristics.
Collider bias in the association of periodontitis and carotid intima‐media thickness
Authors: Leite Fábio R. M. , Nascimento Gustavo G. , Peres Karen G. , Demarco Flávio F. , Horta Bernardo L. , Peres Marco A.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

This cross‐sectional study tested the presence of collider bias in the relationship between periodontitis and the carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT).

Methods

Data from 480 members of the 1982 Pelotas Birth Cohort, Brazil, were used. Periodontitis at the age of 24 years was determined as the main exposure. cIMT at the age of 30 years was set as the outcome. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) was considered the mediator (collider). Confounding variables included sex, income, BMI and smoking. The association between cIMT and periodontitis was tested in conventional logistic regression stratified on hsCRP levels, marginal structural modelling and sensitivity analysis for collider stratification bias.

Results

Conventional adjusted logistic regression analysis showed a positive association between periodontitis and cIMT (OR 1.5; 95% CI 1.1; 2.3). Stratified analysis according to the hsCRP levels revealed that the magnitude of the association was even higher among participants with hsCRP ≥ 3 mg/L (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.1; 4.2) with 36% collider bias probability. No association between periodontitis and cIMT was found among participants with hsCRP < 3 mg/L (OR 1.3; 95% CI 0.8; 2.1). The association was not detected using marginal structural modelling (OR 1.3, 95% CI 0.8; 2.0).

Conclusions

The association between periodontitis and surrogate markers of cardiovascular disease might be induced by collider bias stratification using conventional regression analysis.
Photodermatitis from topical phenothiazines: A case series
Authors: Cariou Claire , Droitcourt Catherine , Osmont Marie Noelle , Marguery Marie Claude , Dutartre Hervé , Delaunay Juliette , Avenel‐Audran Martine , Dupuy Alain , Adamski Henri
Published: March 2020

Background

In Europe, contact photosensitivity to phenothiazines is well‐known, particularly in southern countries. Topical phenothiazines are widely used and sold over‐the‐counter (OTC) for the treatment of mosquito bites and pruritus in France.

Objective

To report a series of cases with photodermatitis following use of topical phenothiazines.

Method

A retrospective study of cases of contact dermatitis from phenothiazines seen in French photodermatology centers was performed.

Results

In all, 14 patients with a diagnosis of contact dermatitis from phenothiazines were included. These patients developed eczema on the application sites, and in 13 the eruption spread to photodistributed sites. Topical products containing isothipendyl were the most common cause of photodermatitis. One patient had photoaggravated eczema due to promethazine cream. All patients stopped using topical phenothiazines and were treated successfully with topical corticosteroids. One patient relapsed and developed persistent light eruption. In all of the nine cases tested, photopatch testing to the topical phenothiazine used “as is” was positive. Isothipendyl, chlorproethazine, and the excipients were not tested. Photopatch tests to chlorpromazine and promethazine were positive in 8 of 12 and 7 of 13 tested, respectively.

Conclusion

Use of isothipendyl and promethazine as OTC (or even prescribed) drugs needs to be limited due to severe reactions and sensitization to other phenothiazines that consequently will have to be avoided.
MEDICAID EXPANSION AND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT UTILIZATION
Authors: Woodworth Lindsey
Published: March 2020

This study measures the effect of Medicaid expansion on emergency department (ED) utilization. It also explores the mechanism through which treatment effects operate. Identification relies on a county‐level Medicaid expansion rollout within California from 2011 to 2013. The results suggest that Medicaid expansion increased ED utilization in California. Every time one individual transferred into the Medicaid program, there emerged one additional ED visit per year. Furthermore, the effect appears to be driven by difficulty accessing primary care. These findings suggest Medicaid expansion may have different effects in different environments, depending on how easily enrollees can schedule appointments. (JEL I13, I18, I38)
Impact of patient‐centred diabetes self‐management education targeting people with type 2 diabetes: an integrative review
Authors: Olesen K. , Hempler N. Folmann , Drejer S. , Valeur Baumgarten S. , Stenov V.
Published: March 2020

Aims

To synthesize primary research into the impact of person‐centred diabetes self‐management education, and support that targets people with type 2 diabetes, on behavioural, psychosocial and cardiometabolic outcomes and to identify effective mechanisms underlying positive outcomes of person‐centred diabetes self‐management education and support.

Methods

Using Whittemore and Knafl’s integrative review method, we conducted a systematic search of peer‐reviewed literature published between January 2008 and June 2019 using PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL. After article selection according to established criteria, study quality was assessed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklists for cohort studies, randomized controlled trials and qualitative research.

Results

From 1901 identified records, 22 (19 quantitative, two qualitative, and one mixed methods) were considered eligible for inclusion. Interventions were categorized by content, medium of delivery, and outcomes. Qualitative studies, quantitative cohort studies and randomized controlled trials demonstrated positive outcomes, with no differences in success rates across study design. Interventions were largely successful in improving HbA1c and patient‐reported outcomes such as quality of life but had limited success in lowering cholesterol and weight, or initiating long‐term improvements in lifestyle behaviours. Primary objectives were achieved more often than secondary objectives, and studies with fewer outcomes appeared more successful in achieving specific outcomes.

Conclusions

Person‐centred diabetes self‐management education and support has demonstrated a considerable impact on desired diabetes‐related outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes. To advance the field further, new studies should take advantage of systematic and transparent approaches to person‐centred diabetes self‐management education.
Retinopathy develops at similar glucose levels but higher HbA1c levels in people with black African ancestry compared to white European ancestry: evidence for the need to individualize HbA1c interpretation
Authors: Staimez L. R. , Rhee M. K. , Deng Y. , Safo S. E. , Butler S. M. , Legvold B. T. , Jackson S. L. , Ford C. N. , Wilson P. W. F. , Long Q. , Phillips L. S.
Published: March 2020

Aims

To examine the association of HbA1c and glucose levels with incident diabetic retinopathy according to black African or white European ancestry.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study of 202 500 US Veterans with diabetes (2000–2014), measures included HbA1c, outpatient random serum/plasma glucose, and incident retinopathy [conversion from negative to ≥2 positive evaluations (ICD‐9 codes), without a subsequent negative].

Results

At baseline, the study population had a mean age of 59.3 years, their mean BMI was 31.9 kg/m2, HbA1c level was 57 mmol/mol (7.4%) and glucose level was 8.8 mmol/l, and 77% were of white European ancestry (white individuals) and 21% of black African ancestry (black individuals). HbA1c was 0.3% higher in black vs white individuals (P < 0.001), adjusting for baseline age, sex, BMI, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), haemoglobin, and average systolic blood pressure and glucose. Over 11 years, incident retinopathy occurred in 9% of black and 7% of white individuals, but black individuals had higher HbA1c, glucose, and systolic blood pressure (all P < 0.001); adjusted for these factors, incident retinopathy was reduced in black vs white individuals (P < 0.001). The population incidence of retinopathy (7%) was associated with higher mean baseline HbA1c in individuals with black vs white ancestry [63 mmol/mol (7.9%) vs 58 mmol/mol (7.5%); P < 0.001)], but with similar baseline glucose levels (9.0 vs 9.0 mmol/l; P = 0.660, all adjusted for baseline age, sex and BMI).

Conclusions

Since retinopathy occurs at higher HbA1c levels in black people for a given level of average plasma glucose, strategies may be needed to individualize the interpretation of HbA1c measurements.
Impact of weather variables and season on sporulation of Phytophthora pluvialis and Phytophthora kernoviae
Authors: Fraser Stuart , Gomez‐Gallego Mireia , Gardner Judy , Bulman Lindsay S. , Denman Sandra , Williams Nari M.
Published: March 2020

Phytophthora pluvialis and Phytophthora kernoviae are the causal agents of important needle diseases on Pinus radiata in New Zealand. Little is known about the epidemiology of the diseases, making the development of control strategies challenging. To investigate the seasonality and climatic drivers of sporulation, inoculum traps, consisting of pine fascicles floating on water in plastic containers, were exchanged fortnightly at five sites in P. radiata plantations between February 2012 and December 2014. Sections of needle baits were plated onto selective media and growth of Phytophthora pluvialis and P. kernoviae recorded. To explore the generalizability of these data, they were compared to detection data for both pathogens from the New Zealand Forest Health Database (NZFHDB). Further, equivalent analyses on infection of Rhododendron ponticum by P. kernoviae in Cornwall, UK allowed the comparison of the epidemiology of P. kernoviae across different host systems and environments. In New Zealand, inoculum of P. pluvialis and P. kernoviae was detected between January–December and March–November, respectively. Inoculum of both species peaked in abundance in late winter. The probability of detecting P. pluvialis and P. kernoviae was greater at lower temperatures, while the probability of detecting P. pluvialis also increased during periods of wet weather. Similar patterns were observed in NZFHDB data. However, the seasonal pattern of infection by P. kernoviae in the UK was the opposite of that seen for sporulation in New Zealand. Phytophthora kernoviae was likely limited by warmer and drier summers in New Zealand, but by colder winter weather in the UK. These results emphasize the importance of considering both environmental drivers and thresholds in improving our understanding of pathogen epidemiology.
Bilateral Morgagni hernia in a donkey
Authors: Arévalo‐Rodríguez J. M. , Caudron I. , Salciccia A. , Vandersmissen M. , de la Rebière de Pouyade G. , Grulke S.
Published: March 2020

This case report describes the clinical presentation and management of a donkey admitted with acute signs of abdominal pain that was diagnosed with a bilateral Morgagni hernia, a rare type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. For more than 8 months before presentation, the donkey had been showing signs of recurrent mild abdominal pain that responded favourably to medical treatment. On admission, the donkey had mild tachycardia and tachypnoea. Radiography and ultrasound of the thorax and abdomen showed thoracic herniation of the large colon. Exploratory laparotomy was performed, and the sternal and diaphragmatic flexures of the large colon, as well as the left hepatic lobe, were found incarcerated in a bilateral Morgagni hernia. Intestine and liver were removed from the hernia, and the large colon was exteriorised. The defect in the diaphragm was repaired by stapling a polyester mesh circumferentially around the hernia ring and covering the mesh with an excised section of the greater omentum. No further complications and no recurrence of colic were observed during an 8‐month follow‐up period.
The role of northern peatlands in the global carbon cycle for the 21st century
Authors: Qiu Chunjing , Zhu Dan , Ciais Philippe , Guenet Bertrand , Peng Shushi
Published: March 2020

Aim

Persistent sinks of atmospheric CO2 in undisturbed peatlands are not included in future projections of the global carbon budget. We aimed to explore possible responses of northern peatlands to future climate change and to quantify the role of northern peatlands in the carbon balance of the Northern Hemisphere.

Location

The terrestrial Northern Hemisphere (>30° N).

Time period

1861–2099.

Major taxa studied

Not a specific plant species, but a plant functional type is used by the model to represent an average of all vegetation growing in northern peatlands.

Methods

The ORCHIDEE‐PEAT v.2.0 process‐based land surface model was used to simulate area and carbon dynamics of northern peatlands. The model was driven up to the year 2099 by the global CO2 concentration from representative concentration pathways (RCPs) 2.6, 6.0 and 8.5 by corresponding climate projections from two general circulation models after bias correction.

Results

First, from 1861 to 2005 the mean annual carbon balance of northern peatlands was an atmospheric CO2 sink of 0.10 PgC/year, and this sink will roughly double in the future under both RCP2.6 and RCP6.0, whereas the total northern peatlands will be either a source of CO2 (IPSL‐CM5A‐LR) or near neutral (GFDL‐ESM2M) by the end of the century under RCP8.5. Second, the peatlands in western Canada, western and northern Europe may experience reducing areas and may shift from being CO2 sinks to sources, especially under rapid climate warming. Third, peatland enhances soil carbon accumulation in the Northern Hemisphere (lands north of 30° N).

Main conclusions

In this study, future changes in both northern peatland extent and peatland carbon storage are simulated. We highlight that undisturbed northern peatlands are small but persistent carbon sinks in the future; thus, it is important to protect these ecosystems.
Osthole‐loaded N‐octyl‐O‐sulfonyl chitosan micelles (NSC‐OST) inhibits RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis and prevents ovariectomy‐induced bone loss in rats
Authors: Wang Lining , Zheng Suyang , Huang Guicheng , Sun Jie , Pan Yalan , Si Yuhao , Tu Pengcheng , Xu Guihua , Ma Yong , Guo Yang
Published: March 2020

Osthole (OST), a derivative of Fructus Cnidii, has been proved to have potential anti‐osteoporosis effects in our recent studies. However, its pharmacological effects are limited in the human body because of poor solubility and bioavailability. Under the guidance of the classical theory of Chinese medicine, Osthole‐loaded N‐octyl‐O‐sulfonyl chitosan micelles (NSC‐OST), which has not previously been reported in the literature, was synthesized in order to overcome the defects and obtain better efficacy. In this study, we found that NSC‐OST inhibited on the formation and resorption activity of osteoclasts through using a bone marrow macrophage (BMM)‐derived osteoclast culture system in vitro, rather than affecting the viability of cells. We also found that NSC‐OST inhibited osteoclast formation, hydroxyapatite resorption and RANKL‐induced osteoclast marker protein expression. In terms of mechanism, NSC‐OST suppressed the NFATc1 transcriptional activity and the activation of NF‐κB signalling pathway. In vivo, ovariectomized (OVX) rat models were established for further research. We found that NSC‐OST can attenuate bone loss in OVX rats through inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Consistent with our hypothesis, NSC‐OST is more effective than OST in parts of the results. Taken together, our findings suggest that NSC‐OST can suppress RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis and prevents ovariectomy‐induced bone loss in rats and could be considered a safe and more effective anti‐osteoporosis drug than OST.
Surgical treatment of basal cell carcinoma: a case series on factors influencing the risk of an incomplete primary excision
Authors: Kappelin J. , Nielsen K. , Nilsson F. , Bjellerup M. , Ahnlide I.
Published: March 2020

Background

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer form, and one first‐line treatment is surgical excision. Complete excision is vital to minimize risk of recurrence. Studies on occurrence of incomplete excisions have given diverse results and seldom include large populations from a dermatological setting.

Objectives

The rate of positive surgical margins in primary surgery of BCC at a tertiary dermatology clinic is studied. Factors associated with an incomplete primary excision are analysed.

Methods

Patients scheduled for standard excision, without perioperative margin control, of BCC during the years 2008–2015 were prospectively enrolled in the study. Tumour‐specific factors, including histopathologic subtype, as well as postoperative outcome were registered. Incomplete excisions were analysed in relation to patient‐ and tumour‐related factors.

Results

In total, 4.6% of 3911 BCC tumours were incompletely excised. The rate of incomplete excisions was higher for facial tumours and among tumours with an aggressive histological subtype. Morpheiform BCC on the nose or ear had the highest rate of an incomplete excision, 61.5% and 50%, respectively.

Conclusions

Most BCCs, irrespective of subtype, were completely excised during the primary excision. Tumour sites nose and ears were associated with the highest rate of positive primary surgical margins, especially for infiltrative or morpheiform BCCs. Surgery with perioperative examination of margins is strongly recommended for these tumours.
Aberrant splicing as potential modifier of the phenotype of junctional epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Mittwollen R. , Wohlfart S. , Park J. , Grosch E. , Has C. , Hohenester E. , Schneider H. , Hammersen J.
Published: March 2020

Background

A lack or dysfunction of the anchoring protein laminin‐332 in the basement membrane leads to the skin blistering disorder junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB). The mutation c.628G>A in the gene LAMB3 encoding the laminin β3‐chain is associated with generalized intermediate JEB; it may introduce an amino acid substitution (p.Glu210Lys) or disrupt splicing.

Objective

This retrospective study aimed at determining the effects of aberrant splicing on the JEB phenotype.

Methods

LAMB3 transcription was analysed in two siblings compound heterozygous for the LAMB3 mutations p.Glu210Lys and p.Arg635* with a diverging JEB phenotype from late childhood on. Laminin‐332 levels in skin sections and in cultured keratinocytes were investigated by immunofluorescence staining. Real‐time PCR was used to quantify LAMB3 expression in keratinocytes. RNA splice variants were identified by subcloning of a LAMB3 cDNA fraction and subsequent DNA sequencing. Structural models of laminin‐332 helped to assess the impact of certain mutations on laminin‐332 folding.

Results

Both siblings showed diminished LAMB3 expression. Laminin‐332 was equally reduced in skin sections obtained during infancy but differed in keratinocytes isolated during adolescence. Although aberrant LAMB3 splicing with 26 variants was detected in both patients, splicing differed significantly: the full‐length LAMB3 transcript harbouring the p.Glu210Lys mutation was found more often in the patient affected less severely (14/108 vs. 5/106 clones; P = 0.03). Structural modelling predicted that several deletions in LAMB3, but not the point mutation p.Glu210Lys, have an effect on laminin‐332 folding and secretion.

Conclusions

Differential LAMB3 mRNA splicing in the patients may explain the disparate JEB phenotype. By elucidating the regulation of laminin‐332 gene expression, these findings may contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies for JEB and might help to understand phenotype modification by splice‐site mutations in other hereditary diseases.
The effect of information disclosure on demand for high‐load insurance
Authors: Ragin Marc A. , Collier Benjamin L. , Jaspersen Johannes G.
Published: March 2020

Economists, regulators, and consumer protection agencies have highlighted the welfare losses for consumers who purchase high‐load insurance against modest stakes risks. Mandatory information disclosure is a potentially attractive public policy tool that might improve consumers' choices, but has not been widely tested in insurance settings. We conduct an incentive‐compatible insurance demand experiment, in which we manipulate the information disclosed to subjects. We test whether any of the three most commonly suggested disclosures affect insurance demand, disclosing either (1) the true probability of loss, (2) the contract's expected loss, or (3) the insurer's profit on the transaction. Similar to consumers in naturally occurring insurance markets, subjects in the laboratory demonstrate significant demand for high‐load insurance against modest stakes. However, we find no effect of any of the three disclosure treatments on subjects' insurance choices. We discuss the implications of our results for possible public policy initiatives in insurance markets.
Unique achondrite Northwest Africa 11042: Exploring the melting and breakup of the L chondrite parent body
Authors: Váci Zoltán , Agee Carl B. , Humayun Munir , Ziegler Karen , Asmerom Yemane , Polyak Victor , Busemann Henner , Krietsch Daniela , Heizler Matthew , Sanborn Matthew E. , Yin Qing‐Zhu
Published: March 2020

Northwest Africa (NWA) 11042 is a heavily shocked achondrite with medium‐grained cumulate textures. Its olivine and pyroxene compositions, oxygen isotopic composition, and chromium isotopic composition are consistent with L chondrites. Sm‐Nd dating of its primary phases shows a crystallization age of 4100 ± 160 Ma. Ar‐Ar dating of its shocked mineral maskelynite reveals an age of 484.0 ± 1.5 Ma. This age coincides roughly with the breakup event of the L chondrite parent body evident in the shock ages of many L chondrites and the terrestrial record of fossil L chondritic chromite.NWA11042 shows large depletions in siderophile elements (<0.01×CI) suggestive of a complex igneous history involving extraction of a Fe‐Ni‐S liquid on the L chondrite parent body. Due to its relatively young crystallization age, the heat source for such an igneous process is most likely impact. Because its mineralogy, petrology, and O isotopes are similar to the ungrouped achondriteNWA4284 (this work), the two meteorites are likely paired and derived from the same parent body.
Screening for invasive fungal disease using non‐culture‐based assays among inpatients with advanced HIV disease at a large academic hospital in South Africa
Authors: van Schalkwyk Erika , Mhlanga Mabatho , Maphanga Tsidiso G. , Mpembe Ruth S. , Shillubane Amanda , Iyaloo Samantha , Tsotetsi Ernest , Pieton Kim , Karstaedt Alan S. , Sahid Faieza , Menezes Colin N. , Tsitsi Merika , Motau Ayanda , Wadula Jeannette , Seetharam Sharona , van den Berg Eunice , Sriruttan Charlotte , Govender Nelesh P.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Despite widespread access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), the burden of advanced HIV disease in South Africa is high. This translates into an increased risk of AIDS‐related opportunistic infections, including invasive mycoses.

Methods

Using a limited number of non‐culture‐based diagnostic assays, we aimed to determine the prevalence of invasive mycoses and tuberculosis among hospitalised adults with very advanced HIV (CD4 counts < 100 cells/µL) at a large academic hospital. We conducted interviews and prospective medical chart reviews. We performed point‐of‐care finger stick and serum cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assays; serum (1 → 3) ß‐D‐glucan assays; urine Histoplasma galactomannan antigen enzyme immunoassays and TB lipoarabinomannan assays.

Results

We enrolled 189 participants from 5280 screened inpatients. Fifty‐eight per cent were female, with median age 37 years (IQR: 30‐43) and median CD4 count 32 cells/µL (IQR: 13‐63). At enrolment, 60% (109/181) were receiving ART. Twenty‐one participants (11%) had a diagnosis of an invasive mycosis, of whom 53% (11/21) had cryptococcal disease. Thirteen participants (7%) had tuberculosis and a concurrent invasive mycosis. ART‐experienced participants were 60% less likely to have an invasive mycosis than those ART‐naïve (adjusted OR: 0.4; 95% CI 0.15‐1.0; P = .03). Overall in‐hospital mortality was 13% (invasive mycosis: 10% [95% CI 1.2‐30.7] versus other diagnoses: 13% (95% CI 8.4‐19.3)).

Conclusions

One in ten participants had evidence of an invasive mycosis. Diagnosis of proven invasive fungal disease and differentiation from other opportunistic infections was challenging. More fungal‐specific screening and diagnostic tests should be applied to inpatients with advanced HIV disease.
Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fractures Through Different Short Segment Pedicle Screw Fixation Techniques: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Wang Tie‐nan , Wu Bao‐lin , Duan Rui‐meng , Yuan Ya‐shuai , Qu Ming‐jia , Zhang Shuo , Huang Wei , Liu Tao , Yu Xiao‐bing
Published: March 2020

Objective

To compare the von Mises stresses of the pedicle screw system and the displacement of injured vertebrae using 3‐D finite element analysis, and to evaluate the curative effect of the pedicle screw system.

Methods

Finite element methods were used for biomechanical comparison of four posterior short segment pedicle screw fixation techniques. The different pedicle screw models are traditional trajectory (TT), Universal Spine System (USS), cortical bone trajectory (CBT), and CBT at the cranial level and pedicle screw (PS) at the caudal level (UP‐CBT). The stress distribution of the screws and connecting rods under different working conditions and the displacement of the injured vertebrae were compared and analyzed.

Results

After the pedicle screw system was fixed, the stress under vertical compression was mainly concentrated at the proximal end of the screw, while the stress was mainly concentrated on the connecting rod during flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. The TT group had the greatest stress during the flexion, extension, and left and right rotation. The UP‐CBT group was most stressed when the left and right sides were flexed; the stress of the USS screw system was less than that of the other three models during flexion, lateral flexion, and rotation. The maximum von Mises stress values of pedicle screws in all exercise states were 556.2, 340.7, 458.1, and 533.4 MPa, respectively. In the USS group, the displacement of the injured vertebra was small in the flexion, and the left and right lateral flexion and the right rotation were higher than in the TT group and the CBT group. The maximum displacements of the injured vertebrae in all motion states were 1.679, 1.604, 1.752, and 1.777 mm, respectively.

Conclusion

Universal Spine System pedicle screws are relatively less stressed under different working conditions, the risk of breakage is small, and the model is relatively stable; CBT screws do not exhibit better mechanical properties than conventional pedicle screws and USS pedicle screws.
Mitochondrial Sirtuins in Skin and Skin Cancers
Authors: Su Shengqin , Ndiaye Mary , Singh Chandra K. , Ahmad Nihal
Published: March 2020

Mammalian sirtuins (SIRTs 1‐7) are a family of NAD+‐dependent deacetylases with distinct subcellular localization and biological functions that regulate various important cellular processes. Among these, SIRTs ‐3, ‐4 and ‐5 are located in the mitochondria and have been implicated in caloric restriction, oxidative stress, aging and various human diseases. Emerging evidence has found dysregulation of mitochondrial sirtuins in multiple dermatological conditions, including responses to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), suggesting their importance in maintaining skin health. In this review, we discuss the roles and implications of mitochondrial sirtuins in cutaneous cellular processes, and their emerging potential as a target for the management of skin diseases, including skin cancer. Among mitochondrial sirtuins, SIRT3 is the most studied and linked to multiple skin conditions and diseases (keratinocyte differentiation, wound healing, chronological aging, UVR and ozone response, systemic sclerosis, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)). SIRT4 has been connected to keratinocyte differentiation, chronological aging, UVR response, alopecia, BCC and SCC. Further, SIRT5 has been associated with keratinocyte differentiation, melanoma, BCC and SCC. Overall, while there is compelling evidence for the involvement of mitochondrial sirtuins in skin, additional detailed studies are needed to understand their exact roles in skin and skin cancers.
Effects of bisphenol A, diethylhexyl phthalate and pentabrominated diphenyl ether 99 on steroid synthesis in cultured bovine luteal cells
Authors: Kabakci Ruhi , Yigit A. Arzu
Published: March 2020

Bisphenol A (BPA), diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and pentabrominated diphenyl ether 99 (PBDE 99) are environmental toxicants belonging to the endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). They exert adverse effects on the various physiological systems, especially the reproductive system of humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of BPA, DEHP and PBDE 99 on progesterone (P4) synthesis in cultured bovine luteal cells. The bovine luteal cells isolated from the mid‐luteal corpora lutea were exposed to different concentrations of BPA (1, 3, 10 and 30 µM), DEHP (1, 3, 10 and 30 µM) and PBDE 99 (0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 µM) in a serum‐free culture media for 48 and 96 hr. At 48 hr, the P4 level in the luteal cells decreased after treatment with all concentrations of BPA; 3, 10 and 30 µM of DEHP; and 3 µM of PBDE 99 compared to the control (p < .05). Treatment of cells with 3–30 µM of BPA, 1–30 µM of DEHP and 1–3 µM of PBDE 99 for 96 hr resulted in reduction in P4 synthesis (p < .05). However, lower concentrations of PBDE 99 (0.1 and 0.3 µM) increased P4 levels at 48 and 96 hr. Synthesis of P4 was lower at 96 hr compared to the 48 hr in the groups treated with BPA (30 µM), DEHP (1–30 µM), PBDE 99 (0.3–3 µM) and control group. Our results showed that BPA, DEHP and PBDE 99 are able to alter luteal steroidogenesis in bovine cells and can disrupt hormonal balance in the ovary. However, it is necessary to evaluate the exact mechanism underlying these effects in future studies.
Gender, entrepreneurship and food security in Niger
Authors: Dedehouanou Sènakpon Fidèle Ange , Araar Abdelkrim
Published: March 2020

In many African countries, the income generated from the informal sector and the entrepreneurship is particularly important for reducing poverty. Previous studies have not found clear evidence on the relationship between self‐employment by gender and food security. We argue that this may be a result of the gender inequality in resource accessibility. In this paper, we analyze the implication of household entrepreneurship on food security in Niger, where gender disparities in resource accessibility are reduced. We find that owning female‐managed non‐agricultural enterprises is positively related to food accessibility and food availability within female‐headed households. The results draw the attention on reducing gender differences in resource accessibility in entrepreneurship for improving food security.
Social innovation and the autoimmunity of employability
Authors: Montgomery Tom
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this article is to examine social innovation in the field of youth employment. It addresses both the shortcomings of supply‐side approaches that are balanced towards issues such as employability and the impact of key demand side issues including low pay and precarity. The empirical analysis is based upon interviews with young people in employment or training with social innovations as well as interviews with senior policymakers and practitioners whose remit covers these issues. The study concludes by reflecting upon how the conduct of employability can operate as an autoimmune function.
Quality and safety measures in transfusion practice: The experience of eight southern/eastern Mediterranean countries
Authors: Haddad Antoine , Elgemmezi Tarek , Chaїb Mohamed , Bou Assi Tarek , Abu Helu Rasmi , Hmida Slama , Benajiba Mohamed , Ba Khadijetou , Alqudah Mohammad , Abi Hanna Pierre , Najjar Osama , Garraud Olivier
Published: March 2020

Background and objectives

Blood transfusion is inherently associated with risks, and little is known regarding the available quality and safety measures in developing countries. No studies or census has been carried out, and therefore, no data on this compelling issue are available.

Materials and methods

Data emanating from eight Arabic eastern/southern Mediterranean countries who responded to five surveys were collected and tabulated.

Results

Asepsis during phlebotomy, screening for serological and immuno‐haematological parameters and appropriate storage conditions are maintained across all countries. Variations in blood component processing exist. Universal leucoreduction is systematically applied in Lebanon. Nucleic acid testing is only performed in Egypt. Aphaeresis procedure, leucoreduction and quality control for blood components are virtually inexistent in Mauritania. Written donor questionnaire is absent in Algeria and Tunisia. Most donor deferral periods for infectious agents are inconsistent with international standards.

Conclusion

Gaps in the processing and in the quality/safety measures applied to the manufacture of blood components are quite evident in most eastern/southern Mediterranean countries. The decision of establishing an effective collaboration network and an independent body – aside from WHO – composed of specialists that oversees all transfusion activities in these countries is certainly a crucial step towards ensuring an optimum level of blood safety.