bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High glucose‐ROS conditions enhance the progression in cholangiocarcinoma via upregulation of MAN2A2 and CHD8
Authors: Thonsri Unchalee , Wongkham Sopit , Wongkham Chaisiri , Hino Shinjiro , Nakao Mitsuyoshi , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Koga Tomoaki , Seubwai Wunchana
Published: November 2020

Diabetes is a major risk factor in the development and progression of several cancers including cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). However, the molecular mechanism by which hyperglycemia potentiates progression of CCA is not clearly understood. Here, we showed that a high glucose condition significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and promoted aggressive phenotypes of CCA cells, including proliferation and migration activities. Mannosidase alpha class 2a member 2 (MAN2A2), was upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels in a high glucose‐ and ROS‐dependent manner. In addition, cell proliferation and migration were significantly reduced by MAN2A2 knockdown. Based on our proteome and in silico analyses, we further found that chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 8 (CHD8) was induced by ROS signaling and regulated MAN2A2 expression. Overexpression of CHD8 increased MAN2A2 expression, while CHD8 knockdown dramatically reduced proliferation and migration as well as MAN2A2 expression in CCA cells. Moreover, both MAN2A2 and CHD8 were highly expressed with positive correlation in CCA tumor tissues. Collectively, these data suggested that high glucose conditions promote CCA progression through ROS‐mediated upregulation of MAN2A2 and CHD8. Thus, glucose metabolism is a promising therapeutic target to control tumor progression in patients with CCA and diabetes.
A review on age‐related cancer risks in PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome
Authors: Hendricks Linda A.J. , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline , Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers Janneke H.M. , Vos Janet R.
Published: November 2020

Patients with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS, comprising Cowden, Bannayan‐Riley‐Ruvalcaba, and Proteus‐like syndromes) are at increased risk of developing cancer due to pathogenic PTEN germline variants. This review summarizes age‐, sex‐, and type‐specific malignant cancer risks for PHTS patients, which is urgently needed for clinical management. A PubMed literature search for Standardized Incidence Ratios or Cumulative Lifetime cancer risks (CLTRs) resulted in nine cohort studies comprising four independent PHTS cohorts, including mainly index cases and prevalent cancer cases. The median age at diagnosis was 36 years. Reported CLTRs for any cancer varied from 81% to 90%. The tumor spectrum included female breast cancer (CLTRs including sex‐specific estimates at age 60‐70: 67% to 85%), endometrium cancer (19% to 28%), thyroid cancer (6% to 38%), renal cancer (2% to 24%), colorectal cancer (9% to 32%), and melanoma (0% to 6%). Although these estimates provide guidance for clinical care, discrepancies between studies, sample sizes, retrospective designs, strongly ascertained cases, and lack of pediatric research emphasizes that data should be interpreted with great caution. Therefore, more accurate and more personalized age‐, sex‐, and cancer‐specific risk estimates are needed to enable counseling of all PHTS patients irrespective of ascertainment, and improvement of cancer surveillance guidelines.
Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses on Lianhua Qingwen capsule indicate Akt1 is a potential target to treat and prevent COVID‐19
Authors: Xia Qi‐Dong , Xun Yang , Lu Jun‐Lin , Lu Yu‐Chao , Yang Yuan‐Yuan , Zhou Peng , Hu Jia , Li Cong , Wang Shao‐Gang
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is rapidly spreading worldwide. Lianhua Qingwen capsule (LQC) has shown therapeutic effects in patients with COVID‐19. This study is aimed to discover its molecular mechanism and provide potential drug targets.

Materials and Methods

An LQC target and COVID‐19–related gene set was established using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and seven disease‐gene databases. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis and protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network were performed to discover the potential mechanism. Molecular docking was performed to visualize the patterns of interactions between the effective molecule and targeted protein.

Results

A gene set of 65 genes was generated. We then constructed a compound‐target network that contained 234 nodes of active compounds and 916 edges of compound‐target pairs. The GO and KEGG indicated that LQC can act by regulating immune response, apoptosis and virus infection. PPI network and subnetworks identified nine hub genes. The molecular docking was conducted on the most significant gene Akt1, which is involved in lung injury, lung fibrogenesis and virus infection. Six active compounds of LQC can enter the active pocket of Akt1, namely beta‐carotene, kaempferol, luteolin, naringenin, quercetin and wogonin, thereby exerting potential therapeutic effects in COVID‐19.

Conclusions

The network pharmacological strategy integrates molecular docking to unravel the molecular mechanism of LQC. Akt1 is a promising drug target to reduce tissue damage and help eliminate virus infection.
Atogepant Is Not Associated With Clinically Meaningful Alanine Aminotransferase Elevations in Healthy Adults
Authors: Min K. Chris , Kraft Walter K. , Bondiskey Phung , Colón‐González Francheska , Liu Wen , Xu Jialin , Panebianco Deborah , Mixson Lori , Dockendorf Marissa F. , Matthews Catherine Z. , Boinpally Ramesh
Published: November 2020

Atogepant is a potent, selective, oral calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist in development for migraine prevention. The chemical structure of atogepant is distinct from previous CGRP receptor antagonists, which were associated with elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in clinical trials. Here, we report the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PKs) of a once‐daily supratherapeutic dose (170 mg) of atogepant for 28 days from a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled phase I trial in healthy participants. Overall safety, hepatic safety, and plasma PK parameters were evaluated. Thirty‐four participants aged 23–55 years enrolled; 28 (82.4%) completed the study in accordance with the protocol. Multiple doses of 170 mg atogepant for 28 consecutive days were generally well‐tolerated. All adverse events (AEs; reported in 87.0% of the atogepant group; 72.7%, placebo) were mild in severity except one serious AE of subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a bicycle accident and not considered related to treatment. There were two discontinuations due to AEs, both with atogepant, one considered possibly related to treatment. Over 28 days of treatment, no participant receiving atogepant had an ALT elevation above 1.5 × upper limit of normal. Change from baseline in serum ALT levels was not different between atogepant and placebo. Atogepant is rapidly absorbed (median time to maximum plasma concentration, ~ 2 hours) with an apparent terminal half‐life of ~ 11 hours, and no evidence of accumulation after once‐daily dosing. Overall, atogepant at a high oral dose is safe and well‐tolerated in healthy participants with no clinically meaningful elevations in ALT.
The acute and repeated effects of cigarette smoking and smoking‐related cues on impulsivity
Authors: Martinez Suky , Jones Jermaine D. , Vadhan Nehal P. , Brandt Laura , Comer Sandra D. , Bisaga Adam
Published: November 2020

Introduction and Aims

Impulsivity may be a risk factor that increases vulnerability to nicotine dependence. However, nicotine exposure itself may directly increase impulsivity. This is a secondary analysis of the first study in a controlled laboratory setting, which assessed the effects of nicotine administration (acute and repeated) and exposure to smoking cues on behavioural impulsivity in humans (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01395797).

Design and Methods

Twenty‐seven smokers completed three tasks to assess behavioural impulsivity (the Immediate Memory Task and the Delayed Memory Task assessing response initiation, and the GoStop Task assessing response inhibition) following: (i) 4 days of cigarette smoking (nicotinised or denicotinised cigarette); (ii) acute cigarette smoking (nicotinised); and (iii) exposure to smoking‐related cues.

Results

Four days of nicotinised cigarette smoking (vs. denicotinised) did not significantly increase Immediate Memory Task, Delayed Memory Task and GoStop scores. However, acute cigarette smoking increased GoStop impulsivity, but only following 4 days of smoking nicotinised cigarettes (P < 0.05). Exposure to smoking‐related cues had no statistically significant effect on impulsivity.

Discussion and Conclusions

Our results suggest that repeated nicotine exposure may sensitise subsequent acute nicotine effects on behavioural impulsivity in heavy smokers.
Patients' preferences for once‐daily oral versus once‐weekly injectable diabetes medications: The REVISE study
Authors: Boye Kristina , Ross Melissa , Mody Reema , Konig Manige , Gelhorn Heather
Published: November 2020

Aims

To understand patient preferences for once‐daily oral versus once‐weekly injectable type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) medication administration profiles, and reasons for their preferences.

Materials and methods

The REVISE study, a cross‐sectional online survey of 600 participants with T2DM (United Kingdom, n = 300; United States, n = 300), elicited general preferences for once‐daily oral versus once‐weekly injectable diabetes medications, and reasons for the preference. Participants then viewed two videos describing the administration procedures for injectable dulaglutide and oral semaglutide, based on the product instructions for use. Thereafter, participants indicated their preference for a once‐weekly injectable or a once‐daily oral medication based on the video descriptions. Participants who switched preferences were asked to identify the reasons influencing their decision.

Results

The participants were predominantly male (n = 349; 58.2%), with a mean (SD) age of 64 (11.3) years. Nearly all (n = 557; 92.8%) were taking an oral T2DM medication, and 158 (26.3%) were using an injectable. Initially, 76.5% (n = 459; 95% confidence interval [CI] 73.1–79.9) preferred a once‐daily oral and 23.5% a once‐weekly injectable (n = 141; 95% CI 20.1–26.9; P < 0.0001). After viewing the videos describing the product‐specific administration, the proportions of participants preferring each option were not statistically different (oral semaglutide administration description (n = 315; 52.5%; 95% CI 48.5–56.5; dulaglutide administration description (n = 285; 47.5%; 95% CI 43.5–51.5; NS, P = 0.2207). The most common reason for switching preferences was the timing and steps of administration.

Conclusion

Several treatment‐related characteristics, including route, frequency and complexity of the treatment, play a role in patients' preferences for T2DM treatments and should be considered during treatment selection.
An institutional right of refugee return
Authors: Lamey Andy
Published: November 2020

Calls to recognize a right of return are a recurring feature of refugee crises. Particularly when such crises become long‐term, advocates of displaced people insist that they be allowed to return to their country of origin. I argue that this right is best understood as the right of refugees to return, not to a prior territory, but to a prior political status. This status is one that sees not just any state, but a refugee's state of origin, take responsibility for safeguarding their welfare. This entitlement I characterize as an institutional right: a right that presupposes, and is a necessary feature of, a particular institution. The institution of which the right of return is an indispensable part is the international political system that sees authority exercised by sovereign states. The institutional argument for a right of refugee return presupposes two basic factual claims about states: they play a central role in safeguarding rights and they pursue exclusionary policies of border control. Importantly, the institutional view presupposes only that states do perform both functions, not that they are justified in doing so. On a purely normative level, the institutional account assumes little more than the moral equality of human beings.
Hydrolytic biotransformation of the bumetanide ester prodrug DIMAEB to bumetanide by esterases in neonatal human and rat serum and neonatal rat brain—A new treatment strategy for neonatal seizures?
Authors: Theilmann Wiebke , Brandt Claudia , Bohnhorst Bettina , Winstroth Anne‐Mieke , Das Anibh Martin , Gramer Martina , Kipper Andi , Kalesse Markus , Löscher Wolfgang
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The loop diuretic bumetanide has been proposed previously as an adjunct treatment for neonatal seizures because bumetanide is thought to potentiate the action of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic drugs such as phenobarbital by preventing abnormal intracellular accumulation of chloride and the subsequent "GABA shift." However, a clinical trial in neonates failed to demonstrate such a synergistic effect of bumetanide, most likely because this drug only poorly penetrates into the brain. This prompted us to develop lipophilic prodrugs of bumetanide, such as the N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl ester of bumetanide (DIMAEB), which rapidly enter the brain where they are hydrolyzed by esterases to the parent compound, as demonstrated previously by us in adult rodents. However, it is not known whether esterase activity in neonates is sufficient to hydrolyze ester prodrugs such as DIMAEB.

Methods

In the present study, we examined whether esterases in neonatal serum of healthy term infants are capable of hydrolyzing DIMAEB to bumetanide and whether this activity is different from the serum of adults. Furthermore, to extrapolate the findings to brain tissue, we performed experiments with brain tissue and serum of neonatal and adult rats.

Results

Serum from 1‐ to 2‐day‐old infants was capable of hydrolyzing DIMAEB to bumetanide at a rate similar to that of serum from adult individuals. Similarly, serum and brain tissue of neonatal rats rapidly hydrolyzed DIMAEB to bumetanide.

Significance

These data provide a prerequisite for further evaluating the potential of bumetanide prodrugs as add‐on therapy to phenobarbital and other antiseizure drugs as a new strategy for improving pharmacotherapy of neonatal seizures.
Hybridization alters growth and migratory life‐history expression of native trout
Authors: Strait Jeffrey T. , Eby Lisa A. , Kovach Ryan P. , Muhlfeld Clint C. , Boyer Matthew C. , Amish Stephen J. , Smith Seth , Lowe Winsor H. , Luikart Gordon
Published: November 2020

Human‐mediated hybridization threatens many native species, but the effects of introgressive hybridization on life‐history expression are rarely quantified, especially in vertebrates. We quantified the effects of non‐native rainbow trout admixture on important life‐history traits including growth and partial migration behavior in three populations of westslope cutthroat trout over five years. Rainbow trout admixture was associated with increased summer growth rates in all populations and decreased spring growth rates in two populations with cooler spring temperatures. These results indicate that non‐native admixture may increase growth under warmer conditions, but cutthroat trout have higher growth rates during cooler periods. Non‐native admixture consistently increased expression of migratory behavior, suggesting that there is a genomic basis for life‐history differences between these species. Our results show that effects of interspecific hybridization on fitness traits can be the product of genotype‐by‐environment interactions even when there are minor differences in environmental optima between hybridizing species. These results also indicate that while environmentally mediated traits like growth may play a role in population‐level consequences of admixture, strong genetic influences on migratory life‐history differences between these species likely explains the continued spread of non‐native hybridization at the landscape‐level, despite selection against hybrids at the population‐level.
Cryptochrome 1 is modulated by blue light in human keratinocytes and exerts positive impact on human hair growth
Authors: Buscone Serena , Mardaryev Andrei N. , Westgate Gillian E. , Uzunbajakava Natallia E. , Botchkareva Natalia V.
Published: November 2020

Photoactivation of cryptochrome‐family proteins by blue light is a well‐established reaction regulating physiology of plants, fungi, bacteria, insects and birds, while impact of blue light on cryptochrome synthesis and/or activity in human non‐visual cells remains unknown. Here, we show that 453 nm blue light induces cryptochrome 1 (CRY1) accumulation in human keratinocytes and the hair follicle. CRY1 is prominently expressed in the human anagen hair follicle, including epithelial stem cells. Specific silencing of CRY1 promotes catagen, while stimulation of CRY1 by KL001 prolongs anagen ex vivo by altering the expression of genes involved in apoptosis and proliferation. Together, our study identifies a role for CRY1 in sustaining human hair growth. Previously, we demonstrated positive effects of 453 nm blue light on hair growth ex vivo. Taken all together, our study suggests that CRY1 might mediate blue light‐dependent positive effects on hair growth.
Overexpression of Fgf8 in the epidermis inhibits hair follicle development
Authors: Wang Zhengsen , Chen Yixuan , Chen Meiyang , Zhang Yanding
Published: November 2020

The hair follicle is a classical model for studying epithelial–mesenchymal interactions. Given the critical role of fibroblast growth factor 8 (Fgf8) in embryonic development, we generated a mouse model that overexpresses Fgf8 specifically in the epidermis. Interestingly, these mutant mice exhibited stunted, smaller bodies and severe hypotrichosis. Histological analysis showed that the hair follicles in the mutants were arrested at stage 2 of hair development. The density of hair follicles in the mutant mice was also lower compared to that in the control mice. Overexpression of Fgf8 inhibited the proliferation of epidermal cells and simultaneously promoted apoptosis, leading to the arrest of hair follicle development. Further analysis showed that sonic hedgehog (Shh) and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4) were downregulated and upregulated, respectively. To summarize, our study demonstrates that FGF signalling plays an important role in the regulation of hair follicle development.
Consequences ofDivorce‐BasedFather Absence During Childhood for Young AdultWell‐Beingand Romantic Relationships
Authors: Reuven‐Krispin Hanita , Lassri Dana , Luyten Patrick , Shahar Golan
Published: November 2020

Objective

This research explores the implications of father absence due to divorce on young adults' well‐being and romantic relationships.

Background

Studies have demonstrated the negative implications of father absence, a common consequence of divorce, on children's development. However, previous research has not systematically compared complete versus partial father absence.

Method

Young adults who, as children, experienced complete (n = 38) or partial (n = 41) father absence were compared with 40 participants in a father‐presence control group.

Results

Compared with those in the control group, young adults in the partial father‐absence group reported higher psychopathology and maternal overprotection, and lower maternal care, romantic intimacy, commitment, and passion. Under elevated maternal care, the partial‐absence group reported lower dyadic adjustment and consolidated sense of identity. Participants in the complete‐absence group reported higher self‐criticism and maternal overprotection and lower maternal care than controls.

Conclusion

Partial father absence might have particularly pernicious consequences for young adults' well‐being.

Implications

Clinical and public policy implications are discussed.
Vasorelaxant effect of trans‐4‐chloro‐β‐nitrostyrene, a synthetic nitroderivative, in rat thoracic aorta
Authors: Sousa‐Brito Hellida Larissa , Arruda‐Barbosa Loeste , Vasconcelos‐Silva Alfredo Augusto , Gonzaga‐Costa Karoline , Duarte Gloria Pinto , Borges Rosivaldo Santos , Magalhães Pedro Jorge Caldas , Lahlou Saad
Published: November 2020

Previously, we showed that 1‐nitro‐2‐phenylethene, a nitrostyrene derivative of 1‐nitro‐2‐phenylethane, induced vasorelaxant effects in rat aorta preparations. Here, we studied mechanisms underlying the vasorelaxant effects of its structural analog, trans‐4‐chloro‐β‐nitrostyrene (T4CN), in rat aortic rings. Increasing concentrations of T4CN (0.54‐544.69 µm) fully and similarly relaxed contractions induced by phenylephrine (PHE, 1 µm) or KCl (60 mm) in endothelium‐intact aortic rings with IC50 values of 66.74 [59.66–89.04] and 79.41 [39.92–158.01] µm, respectively. In both electromechanical and pharmacomechanical couplings, the vasorelaxant effects of T4CN remained unaltered by endothelium removal, as evidenced by the IC50 values (108.35 [56.49–207.78] and 65.92 [39.72–109.40] µm, respectively). Pretreatment of endothelium‐intact preparations with L‐NAME, ODQ, glibenclamide, or TEA did not change the vasorelaxant effect of T4CN. Under Ca2+‐free conditions, T4CN significantly reduced the phasic contractions induced by caffeine or PHE, as well as the contractions due to exogenous CaCl2 in aortic preparations stimulated with PHE (in the presence of verapamil). These results suggest that in rat aortic rings, T4CN induced vasorelaxation independently from the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase/cGMP pathway, an effect that may be related to the electrophilicity of the substituted chloro‐nitrostyrene. This vasorelaxation seems to involve inhibition of both calcium influx from the extracellular milieu and calcium mobilization from intracellular stores mediated by IP3 receptors and by ryanodine‐sensitive Ca2+ channels.
Warming leads to more closed nitrogen cycling in nitrogen‐rich tropical forests
Authors: Lie Zhiyang , Huang Wenjuan , Liu Xujun , Zhou Guoyi , Yan Junhua , Li Yuelin , Huang Chumin , Wu Ting , Fang Xiong , Zhao Mengdi , Liu Shizhong , Chu Guowei , Kadowaki Kohmei , Pan Xiaoping , Liu Juxiu
Published: November 2020

Warming may have profound effects on nitrogen (N) cycling by changing plant N demand and underground N supply. However, large uncertainty exists regarding how warming affects the integrated N dynamic in tropical forests. We translocated model plant‐soil ecosystems from a high‐altitude site (600 m) to low‐altitude sites at 300 and 30 m to simulate warming by 1.0°C and 2.1°C, respectively, in tropical China. The effects of experimental warming on N components in plant, soil, leaching, and gas were studied over 6 years. Our results showed that foliar δ15N values and inorganic N (NH4‐N and NO3‐N) leaching were decreased under warming, with greater decreases under 2.1°C of warming than under 1.0°C of warming. The 2.1°C of warming enhanced plant growth, plant N uptake, N resorption, and fine root biomass, suggesting higher plant N demand. Soil total N concentrations, NO3‐N concentrations, microbial biomass N and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal abundance were decreased under 2.1°C of warming, which probably restricted bioavailable N supply and arbuscular mycorrhizal contribution of N supply to plants. These changes in plants, soils and leaching indicated more closed N cycling under warming, the magnitude of which varied over time. The closed N cycling became pronounced during the first 3 years of warming where the sustained reductions in soil inorganic N could not meet plant N demand. Subsequently, the closed N cycling gradually mitigated, as observed by attenuated positive responses of plant growth and less negative responses of microbial biomass N to warming during the last 3 years. Overall, the more closed N cycling under warming could facilitate ecosystem N retention and affect production in these tropical forests, but these effects would be eventually mitigated with long‐term warming probably due to the restricted plant growth and microbial acclimation.
Treatment of pelvic haemophilic pseudotumour: A retrospective study
Authors: Zheng Jianxiong , Chen Keyu , Liu Fei , Deng Yihang , Mao Zexiong , Lv Jiaxin , Xu Yaowen , Chen Bin
Published: November 2020

Background

The incidence of a pelvic haemophilic pseudotumour is very low and is rarely seen in the clinic. Due to the lack of clear treatment standards, patients often suffer from the condition over a protracted period. The aim of this retrospective study was to present our institutional experience in the treatment of pelvic haemophilic pseudotumours over the past 8 years.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed patients with a pelvic haemophilic pseudotumour who were treated in the Nanfang hospital between February 2012 and December 2019. The type and severity of haemophilia, the presence of inhibitors, comorbidities, pseudotumour imaging data, treatment and follow‐up results were recorded and analysed.

Results

Pelvic pseudotumours were identified in seven patients with haemophilia. Three patients had severe haemophilia, three had moderate haemophilia, one had mild haemophilia and inhibitors were present in two patients. Transfusion‐related infectious diseases were noted in three patients. Spontaneous rupture and infection of the pseudotumour occurred in five patients. In addition, five patients underwent surgical treatment, two of whom healed well, two patients suffered recurrence of the pseudotumour, and one patient developed a postoperative haematoma twice. Two patients were treated conservatively, one of whom was unable to walk because of progression of the disease, while the other died from severe bleeding and infection.

Conclusions

Once a pelvic haemophilic pseudotumour is diagnosed, surgical resection should be performed as soon as possible. A delay in diagnosis and suboptimal treatment may lead to complications of the pelvic haemophilic pseudotumour.
Rates of Vascular Events in Patients With Migraine: A MarketScan® Database Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gill Karminder , Chia Victoria M. , Hernandez Rohini K. , Navetta Marco
Published: November 2020

Objective

To estimate the baseline rates of vascular events among people with migraine.

Background

Several novel medications that target the calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) pathway are approved to treat people with migraine. Given that the CGRP pathway also plays a role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis, determining the baseline rates of vascular events among people with migraine will help inform the safety of these novel medications.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, patients 18‐ to 64‐year‐old patients with migraine were identified from the MarketScan® database (January 2013‐December 2017) and were categorized into 4 vascular risk categories: migraine with aura; and high, medium, and low vascular risk. Event rates (per 1000 person‐years [PY]) for 19 vascular events were estimated overall, by risk category, and by baseline characteristics.

Results

Among 1,195,696 patients with migraine, 4.8% (57,853/1,195,696) had migraine with aura, and 2.8% (33,949/1,195,696), 15.5% (184,782/1,195,696), and 77.9% (931,059/1,195,696) were at high, medium, and low risk of vascular events, respectively. Rates of ischemic stroke (per 1000 PY) were 5.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.0, 5.2) overall, 8.6 (95% CI: 8.1, 9.1) for patients with migraine aura, 47.2 (95% CI: 45.3, 49.0) in the high‐risk group, 9.4 (95% CI: 9.1, 9.7) in the medium‐risk group, and 2.9 (95% CI: 2.9, 3.0) in the low‐risk group. Rates of acute myocardial infarction (per 1000 PY) were 1.8 (95% CI: 1.8, 1.9) overall, 1.9 (95% CI: 1.7, 2.2) for patients with migraine aura, 14.0 (95% CI: 13.0, 14.9) in the high‐risk group, 3.9 (95% CI: 3.7, 4.1) in the medium‐risk group, and 1.1 (95% CI: 1.0, 1.1) in the low‐risk group. High‐risk patients had the highest rates of each of 19 evaluated vascular events, and rates were higher for men, older age groups, and those with higher comorbidity scores, medication usage, and medical utilization.

Conclusion

Our findings provide recent rates of vascular disease in patients with migraine. In the future, this information will be useful to help inform clinical risk:benefit decision making when assessing the use of therapies such as CGRP antagonists for migraine.
Equity of African American Men in Headache in the United States: A Perspective From African American Headache Medicine Specialists (Part 2)
Authors: Charleston Larry , Spears Roderick C.
Published: November 2020

In part 1 of this opinion piece, we described inherent and potential challenges of the equity of African American (AA) men in headache medicine including headache disparities, mistrust, understudied/lack of representation in research, cultural differences, implicit/explicit bias, and the diversity tax. We shared personal experiences related to headache medicine likely faced due to the color of our skin. In part 2, we offer possible solutions to achieve equity for AA men in headache including: (1) addressing head and facial pain disparities and mistrust in AA men; (2) professionalism and inclusion; (3) organizational/departmental leadership buy‐in for racial diversity; (4) implicit/explicit and other bias training; (5) diversity panels with open discussion; (6) addressing diversity tax; (7) senior mentorship; (8) increased opportunities for noteworthy and important roles; (9) forming and building alliances and partnerships; (10) diversity leadership training programs; (11) headache awareness, education, and literacy with a focus to underrepresented in medicine trainees and institutions; and (12) focused and supported the recruitment of AA men into headache medicine.
Calf and arm circumference as simple markers for screening sarcopenia in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Endo Kei , Sato Takuro , Kakisaka Keisuke , Takikawa Yasuhiro
Published: November 2020

Aim

To prevent the progression of sarcopenia, early identification is important. We investigated the usefulness of sarcopenia screening tests using the arm and calf circumferences in patients with chronic liver disease.

Methods

This was a single‐center cross‐sectional study based on data collected from a university hospital. We analyzed simple anthropometric data and sarcopenia‐related chemical data or imaging data between April and December 2019. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Japan Society of Hepatology guidelines.

Results

In total, 661 patients participated. Low muscle mass and low muscle strength were found in 245 (37.1%) and 153 (23.1%) patients, respectively. Ultimately, 90 (13.6%) patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia. The sarcopenia group was significantly older and had a higher cirrhosis ratio and poorer liver function than the non‐sarcopenia group. The sarcopenia group had a significantly lower body mass index, arm circumferences and calf circumferences than the non‐sarcopenia group. A receiver operating characteristics analysis for diagnosing sarcopenia by arm and calf circumferences showed respective areas under the curve of 0.89 and 0.91 for men and 0.84 and 0.89 for women. The optimal cut‐off values of arm and calf circumferences were respectively determined to be 25.0 and 32.6 cm for men (sensitivity 88.4% and 83.7%; specificity 74.0% and 84.7%) and 22.7 and 32.1 cm for women (sensitivity 66.0% and 85.1%; specificity 90.0% and 81.3%).

Conclusions

The arm and calf circumferences seem useful as simple surrogate markers for screening sarcopenia in patients with chronic liver disease.
Evaluation of the surface properties of hair with acoustic emission analysis
Authors: McMullen R.L. , Schiess T. , Kulcsar L. , Foltis L. , Gillece T.
Published: November 2020

Objective

The tactile sensation of hair is an important consumer‐perceivable attribute. There are limited instrumental options to measure the haptic properties of hair. In this study, we introduce a novel technique using the acoustic emissions produced when skin comes in contact with dry hair in a stroking motion.

Methods

Using a free‐field microphone with a frequency response of 8–12,500 Hz, we recorded acoustic emission data of the interaction of skin with hair. Data were captured with Electroacoustics Toolbox software and analysed with Matlab. Acoustic emission profiles were generated allowing us to monitor the acoustic response at distinct frequencies.

Results

Various experiments were conducted to develop this novel technique as a suitable measure to monitor the surface properties of hair. Increasing the normal force and velocity of the interaction led to an increase in acoustic emissions. We also examined the acoustic profile of hair that underwent chemical treatment. For example, bleached hair produced a much higher magnitude acoustic response than the corresponding virgin hair. On the other hand, hair conditioner systems mitigated the acoustic response. Finally, investigations of textured hair revealed that the three‐dimensional structure of the hair fibre assembly and its ability to return to its original state when perturbed produce the most dominant acoustic response for this type of hair.

Conclusion

We introduce a cutting‐edge method to reproducibly evaluate the surface properties of hair. Different types of hair geometry produce unique acoustic profiles as do hair types that experience harsh damaging treatments. This is also a very practical and efficient way to evaluate the degree of protection or conditioning of the fibre.
Overlap in the wing shape of migratory, nomadic and sedentary grass parrots
Authors: Stojanovic Dejan , Neeman Teresa , Heinsohn Robert
Published: November 2020

Bird wing shape is highly correlated with mobility, and vagile species have more pointed wing tips than sedentary ones. Most studies of bird wing shape are biased to the Northern Hemisphere, and consider only two migratory syndromes (north–south migrants or sedentary species). There are major gaps in knowledge about the wing shapes of different taxa with other movement strategies (e.g. nomads) in the Southern Hemisphere. Parrots are a prominent Southern Hemisphere bird order with complex movement patterns, but their wing shapes are mostly unstudied. We test whether three metrics of wing shape of grass parrots (Neophema and Neopsephotus spp.) correspond to their purported migration syndromes (and other factors). We show that two strongly migratory grass parrots and an arid‐adapted nomad had pointed wings, with flight feathers longer distally and shorter proximally. However, purportedly sedentary species overlapped extensively with migrants and nomads in all aspects of wing shape. Taxonomic relationships, purported migratory syndromes and ecological barriers did not explain the variation we recorded. The most distantly related species (Neopsephotus) had most dissimilar wing shape to the others, but broadly conformed to the expectations of long pointed wings of a nomad. Why purportedly sedentary grass parrots had unexpectedly pointed wings is unclear. We propose the hypothesis that this wing shape may persist in sedentary populations if individuals experience strong but intermittent selection to disperse when environmental conditions are poor. If pointed wings are not costly during good times when individuals are sedentary, this wing shape may persist in populations as a ‘back up' in bad times. Our study highlights the interesting migration patterns in the Southern Hemisphere that remain largely unstudied. Wing shape offers an interesting way to identify potentially undiscovered capacity for movement in data deficient species, which may also have implications for conservation.
Insights into the susceptibility of raspberries to Drosophila suzukii oviposition
Authors: Wöhner Thomas , Pinggera Johanna , Fritzsche Eric , Peil Andreas , Pinczinger Dora , Hanke Magda‐Viola
Published: November 2020

The spotted wing drosophila (SWD) causes massive losses in red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) cultivation by direct oviposition leading to damages of the soft skin fruits. Knowledge of the fly's host preference could help farmers in managing the pest. We used a laboratory‐based oviposition assay for screening the germplasm of Rubus to ascertain whether the spotted wing drosophila prefers certain cultivars to others for oviposition and if preference is based on citric acid and Brix content or firmness. Correlation analyses of evaluated characters with no‐choice tests results in 3 years obtained no correlation between citric acid, Brix content and oviposition. Primocane raspberries were lower affected by SWD than floricane raspberries. The Rubus hybrid cultivar “Dorman Red” and the primocane cultivar “Pokusa” showed the lowest oviposition rate compared to the other 58 evaluated genotypes. We found that oviposition correlates to firmness of the investigated cultivars, which strongly indicates that host preference is partly connected to that character in raspberries. The results are discussed regarding the use of Rubus genetic resources in breeding and integrated pest management to control spotted wing drosophila in the field.
Morphology, Morphogenesis and Phylogenetic Position of the Soil Hypotrichous Ciliate, Parabistichelladieckmanni (Foissner, 1998) Foissner, 2016 (Ciliophora, Hypotrichia), with Notes on the Phylogeny of Parabistichella
Authors: Lyu Zhao , Li Jingbao , Wang Yurui , Shao Chen
Published: November 2020

The morphology, morphogenesis and molecular phylogeny of Parabistichella dieckmanni (Foissner, 1998) Foissner, 2016, isolated from north China, were investigated. The Chinese population was characterized as having five to seven frontal cirri in corona, four to seven buccal cirri arranged in a row, two to four short frontal rows and two long frontoventral rows, three to seven transverse cirri, four macronuclear nodules, three dorsal kineties following a Gonostomum‐pattern, and caudal cirri absent. Morphogenetic research reveals that the main characteristics during binary fission are as follows: (1) the long left frontoventral row is formed by two or three anlagen; (2) the posterior part of the parental adoral zone of membranelles is renewed, and the oral primordium of the opisthe is formed intrakinetally; (3) FVT‐anlagen I to VI (or V, VII) produce each a frontal cirrus to form the frontal corona; (4) development of dorsal kineties follows the Gonostomum‐pattern. Phylogenetic analyses showed that P. dieckmanni does not group with other Parabistichella species. Therefore, the genus Parabistichella is polyphyletic. Additionally, Parabistichella variabilis n. comb. (basionym: Bistichella variabilis He & Xu, 2011) and Parabistichella cheni n. nom. (basionym: Parabistichella variabilis Jiang et al., 2013) were suggested.
Regional variation and temporal trend of primary biliary cholangitis epidemiology: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lv Tingting , Chen Sha , Li Min , Zhang Dong , Kong Yuanyuan , Jia Jidong
Published: November 2020

Background and Aim

We aimed to estimate the worldwide incidence and prevalence, with focus on the geographical differences and temporal trends.

Methods

Studies on epidemiology of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were systematically retrieved from inception to October 2, 2020. Random‐effect model was applied to estimate the pooled PBC incidence and prevalence rates. Subgroup analysis, meta‐regression, and sensitivity analysis were conducted to find out the cause for heterogeneity.

Results

Out of 3974 records identified through database searching, 47 population‐based studies were finally included. The pooled global incidence and prevalence of PBC were 1.76 and 14.60 per 100 000 persons, respectively. Both the PBC incidence and prevalence were lower in the Asia‐Pacific region (0.84, 9.82 per 100 000 persons) than that in North America (2.75, 21.81 per 100 000 persons) and Europe (1.86, 14.59 per 100 000 persons) (P < 0.05). The incidence and prevalence showed an increasing tendency in all three regions, with the fastest growth of prevalence in North America (P < 0.05). We found a similar incidence and a lower prevalence of PBC in Northern Europe than that in Southern Europe. A higher incidence and prevalence were observed in female individuals and in the elderly (60–79).

Conclusion

The PBC incidence and prevalence varied widely across regions, with North America being the highest, followed by Europe, and the lowest in the Asia‐Pacific region. Both the incidence and prevalence showed an increasing tendency worldwide, especially in North America.
Professional identity and its work‐related factors among psychiatric nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Qi Wenwen , Sheng Meiqing , Shi Zhongying
Published: November 2020

Objective

To investigate the level of professional identity among psychiatric nurses and to explore what work‐related factors may affect their professional identity.

Methods

Four hundred and twelve nurses were investigated. Two self‐report questionnaires were used: (a) Nursing Professional Identity Scale (NPIS, range: 30 ~ 150); and (b) Practice Environment Scale of Nursing Work (PESNW, range: 0 ~ 100) with six dimensions: nursing‐related hospital affairs, high‐quality nursing care, ability of nursing manager, manpower and material resources, cooperation between nurses and doctors, and salary and social status. Higher scores indicated higher professional identities and better work environments.

Results

Three hundred and ninety‐one of the participants completed the questionnaires and were analyzed. The mean age of the participants was 32.53 years, and 93.3% of them were female. The mean score of NPIS was 100.03 (SD: 17.44). Multiple linear regression showed that professional identity was significantly and positively associated with two dimensions of PESNW: salary and social status and ability of nursing manager.

Conclusions

Professional identity among psychiatric nurses was at a moderate level. Salary and social status and ability of nursing manager positively contributed to their professional identity. These results may indicate the directors to construct better work environments for psychiatric nursing to improve professional identity.
Standing and Responding in Solidarity with Disenfranchised Immigrant Families in the United States: An Ongoing Call for Action
Authors: Wieling Elizabeth , Trejo Andrea N. , Ellen Patterson Jo , Weingarten Kaethe , Falicov Celia , Hernández Ana V. , Cook Heffron Laurie , Faulkner Monica , Rubén Parra‐Cardona José
Published: November 2020

The status of immigrant families resettled to the United States in the past decade has been fraught with upsurges of governmental policies that have systematically increasing the levels of oppression, violence, and abuses of human rights. The socio‐political‐economic toll of xenophobic practices on specifically targeted immigrant populations is magnified by the psychological and relational impact they have on individuals, families, and communities. This manuscript is conceptualized as an ongoing call for social action and specific mobilization by mental health professionals in response to the increasing threats to civility and dignity faced by various immigrant communities. The paper is organized in three sections: (a) an overview of the effects of immigration policy on immigrant family experiences; (b) the impact of mental and relational health on immigrant populations; and (c) elaborations of three exemplar community projects designed to support immigrant families. The manuscript concludes with a discussion exploring avenues for promoting a stronger base for solidarity and social action.
Nurses’ experiences of continuity of care for patients with heart failure: A thematic analysis
Authors: Östman Malin , Bäck‐Pettersson Siv , Sundler Annelie J. , Sandvik Ann‐Helén
Published: November 2020

Aims and Objectives

This study aimed to describe nurses’ experiences of continuity of care for patients with heart failure.

Background

Heart failure is a life‐influencing condition that causes varying care needs over time with risks of fragmentation. Nurses play an important role in caring for patients with heart failure. However, nurses’ experiences of continuity of care seem to be less explored in this context.

Design

A qualitative study with a descriptive design.

Methods

Four focus groups were chosen to collect the data, and the analysis was made by using a method for thematic analysis. A purposeful sampling of nurses (n = 14) with experiences from hospital‐connected heart failure clinics, primary healthcare centres and municipal home healthcare settings was recruited. The COREQ checklist was used in this study.

Results

The nurses’ experiences of continuity of care for patients with heart failure were described in four themes: access and flexibility, responsibility and transparency, trustful and caring relationships and communication and collaboration.

Conclusions

The results indicate that nurses have an excellent position to act as the “hub” in caring for patients with heart failure, but they need to have the possibility of networking and establishing trusting relationships with their colleagues. From the nurses’ point of view, mutual trust between the nurse, the patient and the patient's next of kin is crucial for promoting and maintaining continuity of care in patients with heart failure.

Relevance to clinical practice

To promote continuity of care for patients with heart failure, nurses expressed the necessity of establishing trusting relationships in a continuity‐promoting organisation with seamless coordination. Nurses can be the “hub” supporting a person‐centred care approach based on the patients’ needs. There seems to be a need for better collaboration with common guidelines across and within primary healthcare centres, hospital‐connected heart failure clinics and municipal home healthcare settings.
Mental health training to improve communication with children and adolescents: A process evaluation
Authors: Moran Rachel , Gutman Leslie Morrison
Published: November 2020

Aims and objective

To characterise the intervention components, mechanisms of change and barriers to implementation of an intervention to improve communication behaviour of hospital staff surrounding mental health with children and adolescents.

Background

Healthcare professionals consistently report a lack of confidence and knowledge to care for young people experiencing mental health difficulties. We Can Talk is a one‐day training, delivered to hospital staff, which provides tools to improve their communication with children and adolescents about mental health. Initial evaluation suggests the training improved confidence and skills regarding communication; however, the effective intervention components and mechanisms of change are not yet understood.

Design

A process evaluation was conducted using a qualitative research design.

Methods

Document analysis of the training manual, using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy, characterised intervention components. Ten interviews with paediatric staff from an east London hospital were conducted post‐intervention. Using the Theoretical Domains Framework, the mechanisms of change and remaining barriers to communication were coded thematically. COREQ checklist was used in the reporting of the study.

Results

Twenty behaviour change techniques were identified. Communication about mental health was mainly facilitated through improving the knowledge, cognitive and interpersonal skills, and beliefs about capabilities of healthcare professionals. A small number of staff continued to experience barriers to communication including a lack of opportunity for communication, beliefs that their professional role is not suited to supporting mental health and nervousness. Behaviour change techniques are highlighted to address remaining barriers reported post‐intervention.

Conclusions

Using validated and systematic behaviour change tools, this process evaluation contributes to the translation of evidence to clinical practice for more effective, sustainable and transparent mental health care, reducing the research‐practice gap in this area.

Relevance to clinical practice

These findings can facilitate implementation of evidence‐based practice and inform interventions, improving clinical practice and outcomes for children and adolescents.