bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model‐Based Meta‐Analysis: Optimizing Research, Development, and Utilization of Therapeutics Using the Totality of Evidence
Authors: Upreti Vijay V. , Venkatakrishnan Karthik
Published: April 2019

Model‐based meta‐analysis (MBMA) is a valuable component of the quantitative pharmacology toolkit for model‐informed drug discovery and development. It enables principled decision making with a totality of evidence mindset through integration of internal and external data across multiple dimensions (e.g., targets/mechanisms, molecules/drugs, doses/regimens, diseases/indications, populations, endpoints, and clinical trial designs). MBMA distinguishes itself from traditional meta‐analysis by infusing pharmacologic plausibility into the statistical rigor that typifies meta‐analytic data integration. This is possible through mechanism‐informed formulation of pharmacologically inspired cause–effect and dose‐response relationships, time course of treatment effects, and interrelationships between proximal and distal outcomes of modulation of disease biology and pathophysiology. In this review, we offer a question‐based approach to enhance appreciation of the value of MBMA across the continuum from drug discovery and translational research through clinical development, comparative effectiveness research, and postapproval optimization of therapeutics using illustrative examples across therapeutic areas.
Combinations of reproductive, individual, and weather effects best explain torpor patterns among female little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus)
Authors: Besler Nicole K. , Broders Hugh G.
Published: April 2019

Heterothermic mammals can use torpor, a state of metabolic suppression, to conserve energy during times of limited food and poor environmental conditions. Females may use torpor throughout gestation and lactation; however, there are associated physiological and ecological costs with potential fitness consequences. Previous studies have controlled for, but not quantified the impact of interindividual variation on torpor patterns and understanding this may provide insight on why certain thermoregulatory responses are employed. The objective of this study was to identify and quantitatively characterize the intrinsic variables and weather conditions that best explain variation in torpor patterns among individual female little brown bats, Myotis lucifugus. We used temperature‐sensitive radio‐transmitters affixed to females to measure skin temperature patterns of 35 individuals roosting in bat boxes in the spring and summer. We used Bayesian multi‐model inference to rank a priori‐selected models and variables based on their explanatory power. Reproductive condition and interindividual effects best explained torpor duration and depth, and weather best explained torpor frequency. Of the reproductive conditions, lactating females used torpor for the shortest durations and at shallower depths (i.e., smallest drop in minimum Tsk), while females in early spring (i.e., not‐obviously‐pregnant) used torpor for the longest and deepest. Among individuals, the greatest difference in effects on duration occurred between pregnant individuals, suggesting interindividual variation within reproductive condition. Increases in precipitation and wind were associated with a higher probability of torpor use. Our results provide further support that multiple variables explain torpor patterns and highlight the importance of including individual effects when studying thermoregulatory patterns in heterothermic species.

OPEN RESEARCH BADGES

This article has earned an Open Data Badge for making publicly available the digitally‐shareable data necessary to reproduce the reported results. The data is available at https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.c04tj85.
Drivers of tropical rainforest composition and alpha diversity patterns over a 2,520 m altitudinal gradient
Authors: Veintimilla Dario , Ngo Bieng Marie Ange , Delgado Diego , Vilchez‐Mendoza Sergio , Zamora Nelson , Finegan Bryan
Published: April 2019

Aim

We sought to determine the relationship of forest composition and alpha diversity (the species diversity of a local assemblage) to altitude, soil, and spatial factors over a 440–2,950 m a.s.l gradient.

Location

Altitudinal gradient on the Caribbean slope of the Talamanca Cordillera, Costa Rica.

Taxon

Angiosperm and gymnosperm trees, palms, and tree ferns.

Methods

We measured and identified all stems ≥10 cm dbh in 32 0.25‐ha undisturbed rain forest plots over the gradient. We determined compositional patterns using Non‐Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMS) ordination, and used linear regressions to explore the relationship between four alpha diversity metrics and altitude. With variation partitioning (VARPART), we determined the compositional variation explained by altitude, soil, and spatial variables quantified using Principle Components of Neighbor matrices.

Results

We identified 425 species. NMS axis 1 separated a lowland zone (440–1,120 m asl) from a transitional one dominated by holarctic Oreomunnea mexicana (1,400–1,600 m asl) and Quercus‐dominated forests at altitudes >2,100 m asl. The lowland zone was separated into two clusters of plots on NMS axis 2, the first in the 430–620 m asl range and the second at 1,000–1,120 masl. Regressions showed that all alpha diversity metrics were strongly negatively related to altitude (R2 > 0.78). Overall, adjusted R2 from VARPART was 0.43, with 0.30, 0.21, and 0.17 for altitude, soil, and space respectively. The respective adjusted R2 of individual matrices, on controlling for the other two, was 0.06, 0.05 and 0.09 (p < 0.001).

Main conclusions

There are two well‐defined forest compositional zones on this gradient—lowlands 430–1,120 m asl and montane forests >2,150 m asl—with a transitional zone at 1,400–1,600 m asl, where lowland tropical and montane holarctic species are found together. Montane forests are very distinct in their composition and low alpha diversity. Vegetation and soil respond to altitude, and therefore temperature, as an integrated system, a model that goes beyond niche assembly as shown by the significant effect of space in the VARPART.
Diagnostic accuracy of left atrial remodelling and natriuretic peptide levels for preclinical heart failure
Authors: Tsai Jui‐Peng , Sung Kuo‐Tzu , Su Cheng‐Huang , Lai Yau‐Huei , Kuo Jen‐Yuan , Yun Chun‐Ho , Yen Chih‐Hsuan , Hou Charles Jia‐Yin , Wu Tung‐Hsin , Peng Ming‐Cheng , Hung Ta‐Chuan , Yeh Hung‐I , Hung Chung‐Lieh
Published: April 2019

Aims

Left atrial (LA) remodelling is an important predictor of cardiovascular events of heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation. Data regarding diagnostic value of LA remodelling on diastolic dysfunction (DD) and preclinical HF remain largely unexplored.

Methods and results

We assessed LA dimension (LAD) in 8368 consecutive asymptomatic Asians (mean age: 49.7, 38.9% women) and related such measure to updated American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) DD criteria and newly revised N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) cut‐off (≥125 pg/mL) and HF with preserved ejection fraction criteria incorporating NT‐proBNP and echocardiography parameters by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). LAD and indexed LAD (LADi) were both inversely correlated with myocardial relaxation e′ and positively associated with indexed LA volume, left ventricular E/e′, and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (all P < 0.001) and showed significantly graded increase across ASE‐defined ‘normal’, ‘inconclusive’, and ‘DD’ categories (30.9, 34.4, and 36.5 mm; 16.7, 19.1, and 20.6 mm/m2, for LAD/LADi, both P for trend: <0.001, respectively). Substantial differences of LAD/LADi (31.3 vs. 33.6 mm/16.7 vs. 19.2 mm/m2, both P < 0.001) between ESC low and high HF probability using NT‐proBNP cut‐off were also observed. Multivariate linear and logistic models demonstrated that LAD set at 34 mm was independently associated with ASE‐defined diastolic indices, DD existence, and elevated NT‐proBNP (all P < 0.05). The use of LAD further yielded high diagnostic accuracy in DD (area under receiving operative characteristic curve: 0.77, 95% confidence interval [0.73, 0.80]; negative predictive value: 97.9%) and in ESC‐recommended HF with preserved ejection fraction criteria (area under receiving operative characteristic curve: 0.70, 95% confidence interval [0.65, 0.75]; negative predictive value: 98.7%) with high predictive value in LA remodelling (>34 mL/m2; positive predictive value: 96%) and well‐discriminated ESC‐recommended NT‐proBNP (≥125 pg/mL, LAD: 37 mm) for HF.

Conclusions

Single utilization of atrial remodelling is highly useful for ruling out presence of DD and provides practical threshold for identifying preclinical HF based on most updated guidelines.
Dementia Friendly Communities in England: A scoping study
Authors: Buckner Stefanie , Darlington Nicole , Woodward Michael , Buswell Marina , Mathie Elspeth , Arthur Antony , Lafortune Louise , Killett Anne , Mayrhofer Andrea , Thurman John , Goodman Claire
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To describe the characteristics of Dementia Friendly Communities (DFCs) across England in order to inform a national evaluation of their impact on the lives of those affected by dementia.

Methods

DFCs in England were identified through online searches and Alzheimer's Society records. A subsample (n = 100) were purposively selected for in‐depth study based on online searches and, where necessary, follow‐up telephone calls. Data collection and analysis were guided by a pilot evaluation tool for DFCs that addressed how DFCs are organised and resourced and how their impact is assessed. The evidence was predominantly qualitative, in addition to some descriptive quantitative information.

Results

Of 284 DFCs identified, 251 were defined by geographical location, while 33 were communities of interest. Among 100 sampled DFCs, 89 had been set up or started activities following policy endorsement of DFCs in 2012. In the resourcing of DFCs, statutory agencies and charities played an important role. Among DFC activities, awareness raising was cited most commonly. There was some evidence of involvement of people living with dementia in organisational and operational aspects of DFCs. Approaches to evaluation varied, with little evidence of findings having effected change.

Conclusions

DFCs are characterised by variation in type, resourcing, and activities. England has policy endorsement and a recognition system for DFCs. These can be important catalysts for initiation and growth. A systematic approach to evaluation is lacking. This would enable DFCs to be consistent in how they demonstrate progress and how they enable people living with dementia to live well.
Changes in hospital CEO profiles in Poland—Professionalisation of management?
Authors: Kautsch Marcin , Dela Roksana
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To present and discuss the findings of surveys on the profiles of hospital CEOs in Poland, as carried out in 2012 and 2017, involving over a hundred hospital CEOs at various reference levels.

Findings

The findings indicate appreciable changes in the group under study. While until recently, a typical hospital CEO was a male physician; presently, there is a fair proportion of women (36%). The majority of CEOs are non‐physicians (63%), whereas previously, they accounted for approximately 63% of them. Mean work experience in public health care for male CEOs tends to decrease, whereas an opposite trend is well manifested with regard to female CEOs. It was also established that hospital CEOs were steadily less keen on improving their professional qualifications through postgraduate courses.

Conclusion

These changes may imply a kind of “stabilisation” within the sector itself or a departure from the all‐male, medicine‐centred model of hospital management. They may have been caused by climbing expectations regarding overall management expertise and a higher salary level offered to physicians. Changes in individual work experience seem to indicate that men are more often “transplanted” from other industry sectors, whereas women tend to pursue their entire career path in public health care institutions.
Judicialization of the right to health: (Un)compliance of the judicial decisions in Medellin, Colombia
Authors: Gómez‐Ceballos Diego , Craveiro Isabel , Gonçalves Luzia
Published: April 2019

Introduction

The judicialization of health arose following the possibility of judicially demanding the right to health before national and international courts. In the case of Colombia, health litigation is done through a constitutional tool called thetutela action, which allows for the immediate protection of fundamental rights.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study using a probabilistic stratified sample of 1031 users of the tutela actions, in Medellín, Colombia, between 2011 and 2014. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed, using statistical tests and multiple logistic regression models.

Results

According to the respondents, 95.9% of the tutela actions succeeded in favour of the applicant. On average, the judicial process took 10.96 days (SD = 8.09). After the favourable decision of the tutela action, access to health care followed in 76.2% of cases, partial access was found for 14.0% (median, 10 d), and in 9.8% of cases, claimants had not received access to the health care they sought.

Conclusion

The tutela action is an essential constitutional mechanism that guarantees the access to health services. However, it must be strengthened from the legal point of view through the implementation of monitoring and control actions and by imposing the sanctioning measures and deadlines established in existing legislation.
Multi‐Component Self‐Assembly of Proteins and Inorganic Particles: From Discrete Structures to Biomimetic Materials
Authors: Künzle Matthias , Lach Marcel , Beck Tobias
Published: April 2019

Due to their defined structure, proteins are suitable building blocks for the bottom‐up construction of multi‐component materials. Especially protein containers, with their inherent cavity, can be used to encapsulate synthetic components such as inorganic nanoparticles. This way, multi‐component discrete structures can be assembled. With recent advances in computational protein design, novel protein containers were successfully created, with a high potential for application in biomedicine and materials research. Moreover, engineered protein containers offer a unique building block for the self‐assembly of three‐dimensional materials. They combine the molecular precision of proteins with nanoscale dimensions. Designed interactions lead to novel protein scaffolds. In addition, nanoparticles encapsulated inside the container cavity introduce orthogonal functionality, important for the realization of nanostructured biomimetic materials with emergent properties.
Bacterial l‐asparaginases for cancer therapy: Current knowledge and future perspectives
Authors: Ghasemian Abdolmajid , Al‐marzoqi Ali‐Hussein , Al‐abodi Hiba Riyadh , Alghanimi Yasemin Khudiar , Kadhum Samah Ahmed , Shokouhi Mostafavi Seyyed Khalil , Fattahi Azam
Published: April 2019

l‐Asparaginases hydrolyzing plasma l‐asparagine and l‐glutamine has attracted tremendous attention in recent years owing to remarkable anticancer properties. This enzyme is efficiently used for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphosarcoma and emerged against ALL in children, neoplasia, and some other malignancies. Cancer cells reduce the expression of l‐asparaginase leading to their elimination. The l‐asparaginase anticancerous application approach has made incredible breakthrough in the field of modern oncology through depletion of plasma l‐asparagine to inhibit the cancer cells growth; particularly among children. High level of l‐asparaginase enzyme production by Escherichia coli, Erwinia species, Streptomyces, and Bacillus subtilis species is highly desirable as bacterial alternative enzyme sources for anticancer therapy. Thermal or harsh conditions stability of those from the two latter bacterial species is considerable. Some enzymes from marine bacteria have conferred stability in adverse conditions being more advantageous in cancer therapy. Several side effects exerted by l‐asparaginases such as hypersensitivity should be hindered or decreased through alternative therapies or use of immune‐suppressor drugs. The l‐asparaginase from Erwinia species has displayed remarkable traits in children with this regard. Noticeably, Erwinia chrysanthemi l‐asparaginase exhibited negligible glutaminase activity representing a promising efficiency mitigating related side effects. Application of software such as RSM would optimize conditions for higher levels of enzyme production. Additionally, genetic recombination of the encoding gene would indisputably help improving enzyme traits. Furthermore, the possibility of anticancer combination therapy using two or more l‐asparaginases from various sources is plausible in future studies to achieve better therapeutic outcomes with lower side effects.
NK cells: An attractive candidate for cancer therapy
Authors: Valipour Behnaz , Velaei Kobra , Abedelahi Ali , Karimipour Mohammad , Darabi Masoud , Charoudeh Hojjatollah Nozad
Published: April 2019

Natural killer (NK) cells have significant capability in tumor immune‐surveillance. The ability of lyse transformed cells immediately in an antigen‐independent manner make them an attractive candidate for cancer cell therapy. Despite employment of NK cells in cancer immunotherapy, clinical trials are faced with serious limitations such as trouble with the penetration of NK cells in tumor sites, limited in vivo persistence, and tumor microenvironment interference. Taken together, the NK‐cell cancer therapy is still infant scenario that has a long way to be translated in clinic. Current article first reviews characteristic features of NK lymphocytes. Then, it discusses about important disruptive barriers and motivator in the developmental stages of NK cells like as tumor microenvironment. Finally, some revolutionary approaches are highlighted utilizing of NK cells in cancer therapy.
Efficient degradation of cefotaxime by a UV+ferrihydrite/TiO2+H2O2 process: the important role of ferrihydrite in transferring photo‐generated electrons from TiO2 to H2O2
Authors: Jiang Qi , Zhu Runliang , Zhu Yanping , Chen Qingze
Published: April 2019

Background

Developing effective removal processes for antibiotics has attracted increasing interest recently. In this work, a novel strategy involving the combination of photocatalysis with Fenton reaction using ferrihydrite/TiO2 (Fh/TiO2) nanohybrids was developed to efficiently degrade the antibiotic cefotaxime. Fh/TiO2 nanohybrids were synthesized by simply growing Fh on the surface of commercially available TiO2. We expected that Fh of Fh/TiO2 could capture photo‐generated electrons from TiO2, inhibiting the recombination of electron–hole pairs; also, by virtue of Fe(III)/Fe(II) cycle on Fh/TiO2, photo‐generated electrons could be continually transferred to H2O2 to produce ·OH. Accordingly, high degradation efficiency of cefotaxime could be achieved.

Results

With UV light and H2O2, Fh/TiO2 with a Fe/Ti molar radio of 7% showed high catalytic activity indeed, and its degradation rate for cefotaxime was nearly three times higher than that of TiO2. The decomposition of H2O2 and production of ·OH in the UV+7%Fh/TiO2+H2O2 system were also increased markedly. The large amount of Fe(II) on 7%Fh/TiO2 determined in this system supported our hypothesis that Fh of 7%Fh/TiO2 could capture photo‐generated electrons from TiO2. Although dissolved iron was observed, the contribution of Fenton reaction by dissolved iron was rather limited. After four consecutive cycles, 7%Fh/TiO2 still retained good stability.

Conclusions

The UV+7%Fh/TiO2+H2O2 system provides a potential alternative in degradation of cefotaxime for further practical application, and it has the following advantages: high catalytic activity, simple preparation method, good stability and low cost, as well as continued catalytic activity after total consumption of H2O2. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Pharmacists’ attitude, self‐reported knowledge and practice of dosage adjustment among chronic kidney disease patients in Malaysia
Authors: Teh Xin R. , Lee Shaun W. H.
Published: April 2019

Drug‐related issues, such as inappropriate drug dosing, are pervasive patient issues that are particularly common among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Pharmacists have the expertise to play an important role in avoiding such problems. The aim of the present study was to explore pharmacists’ self‐perceived knowledge, attitude and practice towards dosage adjustment among CKD patients. A cross‐sectional, Web‐based, self‐administered survey was conducted among 1594 registered pharmacists in Malaysia. Participants were surveyed regarding their perceived knowledge, attitude and implementation of drug dosage adjustment based on renal function among CKD patients in their practice. The study was completed by 234 pharmacists (14.7%). More than four‐fifths of respondents (n = 199) reported that they are practicing dosage adjustment. The median self‐perceived knowledge score was 27.0 (of a total of 45). Pharmacists younger than 29 years of age and those practicing in hospitals had higher knowledge of drug dosage adjustments. Female pharmacists were more likely to express interest in being involved in the identification, monitoring and resolution of drug therapy problems for CKD patients (p = 0.02). The two most common obstacles reported by pharmacists who did not practice dosage adjustment were a lack of information regarding a patient's renal function status (76%) and medical history (74%). Further training should be given to pharmacists to improve knowledge and awareness. An alert card could be implemented to record a patient's renal function to improve communication between hospitals and primary care settings.
Influence of the expertise, collaborative efforts and trustworthiness of pharmacists on the prescribing decisions of physicians
Authors: Murshid Mohsen Ali , Mohaidin Zurina
Published: April 2019

Background

Collaboration between physicians and community pharmacists has been shown to be effective in influencing the prescribing decisions of physicians. However, little is known about the specific effects of different pharmacists' roles on prescribing decisions.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the expertise, collaborative efforts and trustworthiness of pharmacists on the prescribing decisions of physicians.

Methods

A survey was administered to a sample of 705 physicians in Sana'a city, Yemen. Data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM).

Results

In all, 410 surveys were completed and returned (response rate = 58%). The results showed that pharmacist expertise does not significantly influence physicians' decisions (β = 0.074, t = 1.13, p > 0.05, f2 = 0.004), whereas pharmacist collaboration (β = 0.157, t = 2.00, p < 0.05, f2 = 0.016) and trustworthiness (β = 0.203, t = 3.29, p < 0.05, f2 = 0.036) positively influenced prescribing decisions, and explained 12.2% of the variance in prescribing decisions.

Conclusion

The prescribing behaviour of physicians is influenced by collaboration with pharmacists, as well as the trustworthiness of pharmacists, whereas the effect of pharmacists' expertise was not validated. Implications of the findings and future research are discussed.
Acoustic detection of zooplankton diel vertical migration behaviors on the northern Gulf of Mexico shelf
Authors: Parra Sabrina M. , Greer Adam T. , Book Jeffrey W. , Deary Alison L. , Soto Inia M. , Culpepper Carla , Hernandez Frank J. , Miles Travis N.
Published: April 2019

Zooplankton respond to light levels, oceanographic conditions, and other cues through diel vertical migrations (DVMs), which can occur at dawn and dusk. However, unraveling the influence of these drivers is difficult without high‐resolution time series data encompassing multiple events that can alter zooplankton DVM. We address this knowledge gap with an interseasonal study using high‐resolution measurements of zooplankton DVMs on the freshwater‐influenced northern Gulf of Mexico shelf. Sampling encompassed 6 months of acoustic backscatter and vertical velocity profiles at five locations, supplemented with zooplankton taxonomic composition and abundance from in situ imaging, net samples, glider profiles, and remote sensing. Relative backscatter anomalies (RBAs) displayed a daily pattern that changed abruptly at dawn and dusk, with lower daytime (2–15 dB lower) values relative to nighttime. Daily variability intensified from autumn to spring. The DVM pattern changed in structure on shorter temporal scales (days to weeks), associated with factors including onshore and off‐shelf currents, lunar variability, cloud cover, and harmful algal bloom passage. In situ imaging and net observations showed that the most likely acoustically observed migrating zooplankton were chaetognaths, shrimp (performing reverse DVMs), copepods, and ostracods. Shrimp and chaetognath orientations also showed diel variability, with individuals more frequently oriented vertically during the daytime. Daily RBA and vertical velocity anomaly patterns could be caused by reverse DVM to the near‐surface or nocturnal DVM to the near‐bottom (outside the acoustic detection range) or diel changes in organism orientation. Pattern complexities suggest that multiple behaviors are happening and being observed simultaneously.
Odalisque's Position as a Geste Antagoniste in a Variant Phenotype of Ataxia‐Telangiectasia
Authors: Barrea Christophe , Depierreux Frederique , Servais Laurent
Published: April 2019

View Supplementary Video 1
ID Conversations
Authors: Donelan Jenny
Published: April 2019

Chuck Milligan, CEO of the flexible electronics specialist FlexEnable, recently spoke with Information Display about his company’s unique business model, its latest innovations, and his advice for start‐ups.
SID Salutes Industry Standouts
Authors: Donelan Jenny
Published: April 2019

Each year, the Society for Information Display celebrates industry heroes—professionals whose contributions or technical achievements have helped to advance the field. The 2019 recipients of SID honors and awards, who will be recognized during Display Week, include boundary‐pushers, educators, and research pioneers. Here, a look at their accomplishments.
The Best of CES 2019
Authors: Werner Ken
Published: April 2019

We consider eight of the most significant—or at least entertaining—stories about displays or display developments from this year’s Consumer Electronics Show.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia in early stages of myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Franco‐Guerrero Amalia A. , Márquez‐Quiroz Luz C. , Valadéz‐Jiménez Víctor M. , Cortés Hernán , Murillo‐Melo Nadia M. , Muñoz Balam , Cisneros Bulmaro , Magaña Jonathan J.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic disorder characterized mainly by skeletal muscle alterations. Although oropharyngeal dysphagia is a prominent clinical feature of DM1, it remains poorly studied in its early disease stages.

Methods

Dysphagia was investigated in 11 presymptomatic DM1 carriers, 14 patients with DM1 and 12 age‐matched healthy controls, by using fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and clinical scores.

Results

Scores for the FEES variables, delayed pharyngeal reflex, posterior pooling, and postswallow residue were significantly greater in patients with DM1 and in presymptomatic DM1 carriers than in healthy controls (P < 0.05); oropharyngeal dysfunction was more severe in patients than in presymptomatic carriers. Penetration/aspiration was found altered exclusively in patients with DM1 (P < 0.05).

Discussion

Swallowing dysfunction occurs in presymptomatic DM1 carriers. Timely diagnosis of dysphagia in preclinical stages of the disease will aid in the timely management of presymptomatic carriers, potentially preventing medical complications. Muscle Nerve, 2019
Metabolic fingerprinting of chorionic villous samples in normal pregnancy and chromosomal disorders
Authors: Murgia Federica , Iuculano Ambra , Peddes Cristina , Santoru Maria Laura , Tronci Laura , Deiana Monica , Atzori Luigi , Monni Giovanni
Published: April 2019

Objective

Placenta‐related biological samples are used in biomedical research to investigate placental development. Metabolomics represents a promising approach for studying placental metabolism in an effort to explain physiological and pathological mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate metabolic changes in chorionic villi during the first trimester of pregnancy in euploid and aneuploid cases.

Methods

Samples from 21 women (13 euploid and eight aneuploid) were analyzed with 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Multivariate statistical analysis was performed, and differences in metabolites were used to identify the altered metabolic pathways.

Results

A regression model to test the correlation between fetal crown‐rump length (CRL) and metabolic profile of chorionic villi was performed in euploid pregnancies (R2 was 0.69 for the NMR analysis and 0.94 for the GC‐MS analysis). Supervised analysis was used to compare chorionic villi of euploid and aneuploid fetuses (NMR: R2X = 0.70, R2Y = 0.65, Q2 = 0.30, R2X = 0.62; GC‐MS: R2Y = 0.704, Q2 = 0.444). Polyol pathways, myo‐inositol, and oxidative stress seem to have a fundamental role in euploid and aneuploid pregnancies.

Conclusion

Polyol pathways may have a crucial role in energy production in early pregnancy. Excessive activation in aneuploid pregnancies may lead to increased oxidative stress. Metabolomics represents a promising approach to investigate placental metabolic changes.
Glucose monitoring in diabetes: from clinical studies to real‐world practice
Authors: Sagar Rebecca C , Abbas Afroze , Ajjan Ramzi
Published: April 2019

Lowering glucose levels in diabetes prevents microvascular complications and long‐term macrovascular disease. HbA1c has long been used to guide management decisions, but it fails to address hypoglycaemia and glycaemic variability, both of which are associated with adverse clinical outcome.

While self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) has had a pivotal role in improving glycaemia in diabetes, it provides incomplete glucose data and can be inconvenient to patients. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has the advantage of greater convenience, comprehensive glucose measurements and hypoglycaemia alarms; the latter are particularly useful in individuals with hypoglycaemia unawareness. However, these devices are relatively expensive, limiting widespread use, and most require continued capillary glucose testing for calibration.

The newer flash continuous glucose monitoring (FCGM) device has the advantage of lower costs, long sensor life and factory calibration, negating the need for routine SMBG. However, the lack of hypoglycaemia alarms can be an issue, although a newer generation of sensors will have alarm capability but yet to be released in the UK. Studies have conclusively shown that CGM and FCGM improve glycaemic parameters in individuals with type 1 diabetes, and studies in type 2 diabetes are also promising but limited to draw definitive conclusions on the best subgroup(s) to benefit from this technology.

Despite some reluctance to use CGM and FCGM due to costs and lack of familiarity, there has been a gradual shift from SMBG to these newer glucose monitoring strategies in those with type 1 diabetes, thus improving glycaemic control and the quality of life of these individuals. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons.
Diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with type 2 diabetes precipitated by infection, steroids and SGLT2 inhibitor
Authors: Aung Ei Thuzar , Koshy Rithika Mary , Jacob Koshy
Published: April 2019

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious, life‐threatening hyperglycaemic emergency commonly associated as a complication of type 1 diabetes (T1DM). The pathophysiology associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) makes it less likely to develop DKA, though it still could be precipitated by certain coexisting factors such as infection, medication non‐compliance, vascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke, medications such as steroids, thiazides or sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and pancreatic neoplasm. DKA associated with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors, although not common, is a well‐recognised complication. Glucocorticoid use is not a commonly described association for DKA in T2DM. The diabetogenic propensity of steroids is due to a combination of increased insulin resistance as well as β‐cell dysfunction. We report a case of T2DM who presented to our hospital with DKA following exacerbation of his hyperglycaemia by concomitant sepsis, steroid usage and use of SGLT2 inhibitor. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons.
Effects of simulated climate warming on the population dynamics of Sitobion avenae (Fabricius) and its parasitoids in wheat fields
Authors: Han Zongli , Tan Xiaoling , Wang Yi , Xu Qingxuan , Zhang Yong , Harwood James D , Chen Julian
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Climate warming has considerable effects on crop development and pest population dynamics. Crucially, the tri‐trophic responses of plants, herbivores and their natural enemies to warming are poorly understood. To delineate these interactive properties, a three‐system approach and integrating life table methodology were used to examine the responses of wheat plants, English grain aphid and parasitoids under open‐field infrared heating to simulate warming.

RESULTS

Warming significantly increased wheat biomass and grain weight, causing a phenological shift in plant growth. Importantly, warming significantly increased the number of aphids and the reproductive period, coupled with a higher net reproductive rate and intrinsic growth rate. Otherwise, duration of development, generation span, and population doubling time all decreased significantly. Warming had no effect on parasitoid abundance but resulted in a significant decrease in the rate of parasitism.

CONCLUSION

Warming may strengthen bottom‐up effects on aphids by increasing wheat biomass, resulting in reduced regulation of aphid populations. Warming had a different effect on parasitoids between 2015 and 2016. These findings provide an important characterization of ecological mechanisms in plant–herbivore–parasitoid systems and give a theoretical foundation for improved forecasting of aphid population dynamics under climate change. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Legacy recovery and robust augmentation structured design for the VEGA launcher
Authors: Navarro‐Tapia D. , Marcos A. , Simplício P. , Bennani S. , Roux C.
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a systematic robust control framework based on the structured
approach to address the synthesis of the atmospheric ascent‐flight control system of a launch vehicle. To introduce this synthesis framework, the control problem is first formulated to recover the classically designed baseline rigid‐body controller of the actual VEGA launcher VV05 mission. This legacy recovery builds the necessary background for a good understanding of the problem and increases confidence for its transfer to the Space industry. Subsequently, it is shown how to systematically augment the robustness of the design from the synthesis stage against wind turbulence perturbations and parametric uncertainty. The resulting controller is verified via classical stability margins and robust structured singular value analyses and finally validated using nonlinear, time‐domain simulations in a Monte Carlo campaign. It is highlighted that this robust synthesis framework allows to obtain a controller with improved robust stability and global performance, and more importantly, it provides a more systematic methodology for design.
Bootstrap percolation with inhibition
Authors: Einarsson Hafsteinn , Lengler Johannes , Mousset Frank , Panagiotou Konstantinos , Steger Angelika
Published: April 2019

We study a variant of the classical bootstrap percolation process on Erdős Rényi random graphs. The graphs we consider haveinhibitory verticesobstructing the diffusion of activity andexcitatory verticesfacilitating it. We study both asynchronousand anasynchronousversion of the process. Both begin with a small initial set of active vertices, and the activation spreads to all vertices for which the number of excitatory active neighbors exceeds the number of inhibitory active neighbors by a certain amount. We show that in the synchronous process, inhibitory vertices may cause unstable behavior: tiny changes in the size of the starting set can dramatically influence the size of the final active set. We further show that in the asynchronous model the process becomes stable and stops with an active set containing a nontrivial deterministic constant fraction of all vertices. Moreover, we show that percolation occurs significantly faster asynchronously than synchronously.
Evaluate, boost your executive presence quotient
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2019

BOSTON — If you find yourself questioning why you've been overlooked for promotions and job offers, it likely has something to do with your executive presence. But you can evaluate your executive presence and take concrete steps to give it a boost. That's according to Caitlin Houlihan, associate director, and Mario Rapetti, assistant dean of student life, both in the Office of Community Engagement at Purchase College. They gave a presentation, based on the book Executive Presence by Sylvia Ann Hewlett, at the annual conference for ACPA — College Student Educators International.
Map out your journey to the college presidency
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2019

As a young woman from the projects arriving on a college campus with all her belongings in just “two trash bags and a trunk,” Tyjaun Lee couldn't have imagined herself as a college graduate who would go on to earn her master's degree and then her Ph.D. while working her way up through the ranks in student affairs and eventually becoming a college president. But that's indeed what she did. And it certainly took much determination and sacrifice along the way.
Can we calculate drought risk… and do we need to?
Authors: Hall Jim W. , Leng Guoyong
Published: April 2019

There is growing interest in the possibility of global analysis of drought risk, following the rapid development of global models of flood risk and other natural hazards. While this is an attractive idea, we argue that it is not actually possible as, unlike for flooding, it is not possible to unambiguously distinguish between “drought” and “nondrought” events, in particular when considering the impacts of droughts on agriculture. Any definition of a drought event depends upon the choice of drought index, which is to some extent arbitrary. Nonetheless, the absence of unambiguous quantified estimates of drought risk need not be an obstacle to rational drought risk management, as it is still possible to evaluate and compare the benefits of different drought risk management options.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water Extremes

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change

Science of Water > Methods
The “Short‐Cut” Laparoscopic Reverse Approach: A Novel Strategy for Synchronous Colorectal Cancer and Liver Metastases Requiring Major or Complex Procedures?
Authors: Karoui Mehdi , Scatton Olivier
Published: April 2019

Aim

To report on the feasibility and the safety of a novel strategy in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases (SLM) requiring major or complex procedures for both the primary and liver deposits.

Patients and Methods

The strategy consisted in performing the two major procedures (liver first and colorectal) by laparoscopy within a short interval in order to keep both oncological advantages and short‐terms outcome benefits.

Results

Two patients were treated with this strategy: one with a laparoscopic resection of segment VIII extended to the segment IVb followed by the laparosopic rectal resection; the second with a laparoscopic left hepatectomy with a microwave ablation of the lesion located in the segment VII followed by the laparoscopic resection of the sigmoid colon. Postoperative courses were uneventful.

Conclusion

The “short‐cut” laparoscopic reverse approach may represent an attractive option for patients requiring major liver and colorectal resections for SLM provided expertise in laparoscopic surgery in both fields is ensured.
An interview with Johan Landfors, Managing Director of Polymer Chemistry at Nouryon
Authors: Landfors Johan , McGuire Callum
Published: April 2019

Reinforced Plastics sat down with Johan Landfors to get his opinion on the state of the composites market and Nouryon’s involvement in the industry.
Media neglect of Indigenous student performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2001–2015
Authors: Davis Edward Rock , Wilson Rachel , Evans John Robert
Published: April 2019

Abstract
This research explores media reporting of Indigenous students’ Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results in two national and 11 metropolitan Australian newspapers from 2001 to 2015. Of almost 300 articles on PISA, only 10 focused on reporting of Indigenous PISA results. While general or non-Indigenous PISA results featured in media reports, especially at the time of the publication of PISA results, there was overwhelming neglect of Indigenous results and the performance gap. A thematic analysis of articles showed mainstream PISA reporting had critical commentary which is not found in the Indigenous PISA articles. The three themes identified include: a lack of teacher quality in remote and rural schools; the debate on Gonski funding recommendations and the PISA achievement gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. This study concluded the overwhelming neglect is linked to media bias, which continues to drive mainstream media coverage of Indigenous Australians.
‘Aristocystites? subcylindricus var. de bohemicus Barrande, 1887’ is a valid species of Aristocystites (Echinodermata, Diploporita): description and taxonomic consequences
Authors: Paul Christopher R.C. , Parsley Ronald L.
Published: April 2019

Barrande erected the genus Aristocystites, type A. bohemicus Barrande, in 1887. He listed other questionable species, including “A.? subcylindricus var. de bohemicus.” Aristocystites subcylindricus has not been accepted apart from Bather who in 1919 designated a type specimen and made it the type species of the new genus Hippocystis. No specimens available to Barrande or Bather preserved the oral area necessary to characterize Hippocystis or A. subcylindricus. Specimen 436969A, in the United States National Museum of Natural History is a more complete specimen of A. subcylindricus and preserves the oral area. This shows that A. subcylindricus is a valid species, but has two ambulacral facets, a character unique to the genus Aristocystites. Aristocystites subcylindricus has tumid plates with obvious sutures, a rounded thecal base, and a gonopore surrounded by three plates. Aristocystites bohemicus has smooth plates, an obvious attachment scar aborally and a gonopore within a single plate. Both species have occasional horseshoe-shaped diplopores.

UUID: http://zoobank.org/946c28a2-5783-4a6b-9111-416857bf9363
Anticolonial Nationalism From Imagined Communities to Colonial Conflict
Authors: Go Julian , Watson Jake
Published: April 2019

Nationalism in the modern world began in European metropoles but spread throughout the world system in the form of anticolonial nationalism. While many studies have explored the former, this essay systematically examines the latter. Based upon an original database of 124 cases, we test multiple theories that might account for the origins and spread of anticolonial nationalism. We adjudicate between cultural-cognitive approaches emphasizing the discursive bases for national imaginings on the one hand and, on the other, theories that emphasize political-economic dynamics and elite conflict. Our time-series regression analysis suggests that while cultural-cognitive approaches best account for the initial wave of anticolonial nationalism, from 1700 to 1878, theories stressing political-economic dynamics and elite conflict explain anticolonial nationalism in the later wave, from 1879 to 1990. The analysis suggests that theories of nationalism need to be attentive to the historical specificity of their claims.
The Performative Manuscript: Art, Agency and Public Ritual in Ottonian Mainz
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ VIEJO JESÚS
Published: April 2019

The German city of Mainz under Archbishop Willigis (975–1011) witnessed a major flourishing of the arts, particularly in the field of architecture. During this period, a benedictional, now in St Gall, was also commissioned. Its only figurative content is an image of Christ in Majesty on its first folio. Taken as a case study, analysis of this permits an approach to the barely-explored concept of performativity in early medieval illuminated manuscripts. This Maiestas Domini, the list of blessings contained in the book and contemporary depictions of religious ceremonies invites consideration of the joint role that image and manuscript played in the dynamic liturgical rites during which the benedictional was handled.
Population genetic structure and selective pressure on the mitochondrial ATP6 gene of the Japanese sand lance Ammodytes personatus Girard
Authors: Deng Zhaochao , Wang Xiuliang , Xu Shengyong , Gao Tianxiang , Han Zhiqiang
Published: April 2019

Thermoregulation has been suggested to influence mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) evolution. Previous studies revealed that the mitochondrial protein-coding genes of fish living in temperate climates have smallerdN/dS(Non-synonymous substitution rate/Synonymous substitution rate) than tropical species. However, it is unknown whether different geographic populations of one fish species experience stronger selective pressures between cold and warm climates. The biological characteristics of the Japanese sand lance,Ammodytes personatusin the North-western Pacific is well-suited for assessing the performance of mtDNA evolution among separate geographic populations. In this study, we focused on the mitochondrial ATP6 gene ofA. personatususing 174 individuals from eight different sea temperature populations. Two distinct haplotype lineages and a significant population structure (P= 0.016) were found in this species. The frequencies of the two lineages varied with the changes of annual sea temperature. The southern lineage (lineage A,dN/dS= 0.0384) showed a largerdN/dSvalue than the northern lineage (lineage B,dN/dS= 0.0167), suggesting that sea temperature greatly influences the evolution of the two lineages. The result provides robust evidence of local adaptation between populations inA. personatus.