bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Discrimination Errors in the Technique for Determining the Geographic Origin of Onions by Mineral Composition: Interlaboratory Study
Authors: Ariyama Kaoru , Kadokura Masashi , Suzuki Tadanao
Published: February 2020

Techniques to determine the geographic origin of foods have been developed for various agricultural and fishery products, and they have used various principles. Some of these techniques are already in use for checking the authenticity of the labeling. Many are based on multielement analysis and chemometrics. We have developed such a technique to determine the geographic origin of onions (Allium cepa L.). This technique, which determines whether an onion is from outside Japan, is designed for onions labeled as having a geographic origin of Hokkaido, Hyogo, or Saga, the main onion production areas in Japan. However, estimations of discrimination errors for this technique have not been fully conducted; they have been limited to those for discrimination models and do not include analytical errors. Interlaboratory studies were conducted to estimate the analytical errors of the technique. Four collaborators each determined 11 elements (Na, Mg, P, Mn, Zn, Rb, Sr, Mo, Cd, Cs, and Ba) in 4 test materials of fresh and dried onions. Discrimination errors in this technique were estimated by summing (1) individual differences within lots, (2) variations between lots from the same production area, and (3) analytical errors. The discrimination errors for onions from Hokkaido, Hyogo, and Saga were estimated to be 2.3, 9.5, and 8.0, respectively. Those for onions from abroad in determinations targeting Hokkaido, Hyogo, and Saga were estimated to be 28.2, 21.6, and 21.9, respectively.
Pure Fibrocystic Change Diagnosed at MRI-guided Vacuum-assisted Breast Biopsy: Imaging Features and Follow-up Outcomes
Authors: Chen Shu-Tian , Okamoto Satoko , Daniel Bruce L , Covelli James , DeMartini Wendy B , Ikeda Debra M
Published: February 2020

Objective

Fibrocystic change (FCC) is considered one of the most common benign findings in the breast and may be commonly seen on breast MRI. We performed this study to identify MRI characteristics of pure FCC on MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) without other associated pathologies and describe the findings on MRI follow-up and outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed for 598 lesions undergoing 9-gauge MRI-guided VABB at our institution from January 2015 to April 2018, identifying 49 pure FCC lesions in 43 patients. The associations between variables and lesion changes on follow-up MRI were analyzed using exact Mann-Whitney tests and Fisher’s exact tests.

Results

MRI features of pure FCC are predominantly clumped nonmass enhancement (19/49, 39%) or irregular masses with initial fast/late washout kinetics (9/49, 18%). There was no upgrade to high-risk or cancerous lesions among the 11 patients (25.6%) who underwent surgery. There were 22 pure FCC lesions in 19 (44.2%) patients who had follow-up MRI (mean 18.0 months, range 11–41 months) showing regression (13, 59%), stability (8, 36%), or progression (1, 5%) of the lesion size, and no cancers were found on follow-up at the site of the MRI biopsy for fibrocystic changes. No patient demographics or lesion features were associated with lesion regression or stability (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study shows that MRI features of VABB-proven FCC lesions may mimic malignancy. After VABB of pure FCC, given that adequate sampling has been performed, a 12-month follow-up MRI may be reasonable.
Forests and Water Yield: A Synthesis of Disturbance Effects on Streamflow and Snowpack in Western Coniferous Forests
Authors: Goeking Sara A , Tarboton David G
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In coniferous western forests, recent widespread tree mortality provided opportunities to test the long-held theory that forest cover loss increases water yield. We reviewed 78 studies of hydrologic response to standing-replacing (severe wildfire, harvest) or nonstand-replacing (drought, insects, low-severity wildfire) disturbances, and reassessed the question: Does water yield or snowpack increase after forest disturbance? Collective results indicate that postdisturbance streamflow and snowpack may increase, not change, or even decrease, and illuminate factors that may help improve predictability of hydrologic response to disturbance. Contrary to the expectation that tree mortality reduces evapotranspiration, making more water available as runoff, postdisturbance evapotranspiration sometimes increased—particularly following nonstand-replacing disturbance—because of (a) increased evaporation resulting from higher subcanopy radiation, and (b) increased transpiration resulting from rapid postdisturbance growth. Postdisturbance hydrologic response depends on vegetation structure, climate, and topography, and new hypotheses continue to be formulated and tested in this rapidly evolving discipline.
Correlates of Awareness and Use of Heated Tobacco Products in a Sample of US Young Adults in 2018–2019
Authors: Dunbar Michael S , Seelam Rachana , Tucker Joan S , Rodriguez Anthony , Shih Regina A , D’Amico Elizabeth J
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Tobacco companies have devoted increased resources in recent years to developing and marketing heated tobacco products (HTPs) as alternatives to combustible products like cigarettes. However, little is known about correlates of awareness and use of these products in American young adults.

Methods

Two thousand four hundred ninety-seven young adults (mean age = 21.6) completed survey items on HTP awareness and lifetime use in 2018–2019. Logistic regression models compared young adults who were (1) unaware of HTPs (reference group) with those who were, (2) aware of HTPs, and (3) had ever used HTPs on demographic, tobacco, and other substance use characteristics. Among current smokers, these groups were compared on cigarette use, dependence, and readiness to quit.

Results

Approximately 12% of respondents (n = 293) were aware of HTPs, and 5% (n = 134) reported lifetime HTP use. Controlling for demographics, HTP awareness and use were both associated with greater use of all types of tobacco products, number of different tobacco products, and use of marijuana and other drugs. Among current smokers, HTP awareness and use correlated with heavier cigarette consumption, greater dependence, and past-month marijuana use, but not with recent quit attempts or thinking about quitting cigarettes.

Conclusions

Awareness and use of HTPs among young adults were associated with greater use of tobacco products and other substances and, among current smokers, with greater cigarette dependence (but not cessation-related factors). As these products become increasingly available in the United States, additional surveillance and monitoring activities are needed to better understand use patterns, consequences, and reasons for using HTPs.

Implications

Few studies have examined factors associated with awareness and use of heated tobacco products (HTPs) among US young adults. HTP awareness and lifetime use correlated with a range of factors, including male gender, white race/ethnicity, and tobacco and other substance use. Lifetime use of HTPs was low (5%); most lifetime HTP users reported history of other tobacco use, but a sizeable minority (14%) reported no other tobacco product use history. Among current cigarette smokers, cigarette dependence, poly-tobacco use, and marijuana use—but not cigarette cessation attempts or contemplation—were associated with greater likelihood of awareness and use of HTPs.
Benign lymph node microenvironment is associated with response to immunotherapy
Authors: Toki Maria I , Kumar Deepika , Ahmed Fahad S , Rimm David L , Xu Mina L
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Benign lymph nodes have been considered the hubs of immune surveillance in cancer patients. The microenvironment of these lymphoid tissues can be immune suppressed, hence allowing for tumor progression. Understanding the spectrum of benign findings in bystander lymph nodes in immune checkpoint blockade therapy could prove to be key to understanding the mechanism and assessing treatment response.

Methods

Benign lymph nodes and spleen were evaluated from patients treated with immunotherapy who subsequently received postmortem examination. We used quantitative immunofluorescence (QIF) to assess tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and macrophage marker expression and characterized activation status using a novel multiplexed QIF assay including CD3, GranzymeB, and Ki67. We performed immunohistochemistry to correlate results of QIF.

Results

Benign lymph nodes from non-responders to immunotherapy showed significantly higher expression of cytotoxic markers and proliferation index (Ki67) in T cells compared to responders. Higher expression of PD-L1 in macrophages was also observed. There was no significant difference in CD3+ expression, but higher levels of CD8+ T cells as well as CD20+ B cells were seen in lymph nodes of non-responders. No significant differences were seen between responder and non-responder splenic tissue. Findings were supported by traditional immunostaining methods.

Conclusions

While most studies in biomarkers for immunotherapy focus on tumor microenvironment, we show that benign lymph node microenvironment may predict response to immunotherapy. In responding patients, bystander lymph nodes appear to have been mobilized, resulting in reduced cytotoxic T cells. Conversely, patients whose disease progressed on immunotherapy demonstrate higher levels of macrophages that express increased PD-L1, and activated T cells not recruited to the tumor site.
A Systematic Literature Review of Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurostimulation for the Treatment of Pain
Authors: Deer Timothy R , Hunter Corey W , Mehta Pankaj , Sayed Dawood , Grider Jay S , Lamer Tim J , Pope Jason E , Falowski Steven , Provenzano David A , Esposito Michael F , Slavin Konstantin V , Baranidharan Ganesan , Russo Marc , Jassal Navdeep S , Mogilner Alon Y , Kapural Leo , Verrills Paul , Amirdelfan Kasra , McRoberts W Porter , Harned Michael E , Chapman Kenneth B , Liem Liong , Carlson Jonathan D , Yang Ajax , Aiyer Rohit , Antony Ajay , Fishman Michael A , Al-Kaisy Adnan A , Christelis Nick , Levy Robert M , Mekhail Nagy
Published: February 2020

Objective

To conduct a systematic literature review of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation for pain.

Design

Grade the evidence for DRG stimulation.

Methods

An international, interdisciplinary work group conducted a literature search for DRG stimulation. Abstracts were reviewed to select studies for grading. General inclusion criteria were prospective trials (randomized controlled trials and observational studies) that were not part of a larger or previously reported group. Excluded studies were retrospective, too small, or existed only as abstracts. Studies were graded using the modified Interventional Pain Management Techniques–Quality Appraisal of Reliability and Risk of Bias Assessment, the Cochrane Collaborations Risk of Bias assessment, and the US Preventative Services Task Force level-of-evidence criteria.

Results

DRG stimulation has Level II evidence (moderate) based upon one high-quality pivotal randomized controlled trial and two lower-quality studies.

Conclusions

Moderate-level evidence supports DRG stimulation for treating chronic focal neuropathic pain and complex regional pain syndrome.
Framework for a novel mixed analytical/numerical approach for the computation of two-loop N-point Feynman diagrams
Authors: Guillet J Ph , Pilon E , Shimizu Y , Zidi M S
Published: February 2020

A framework to represent and compute two-loop $N$-point Feynman diagrams as double-integrals is discussed. The integrands are “generalised one-loop type” multi-point functions multiplied by simple weighting factors. The final integrations over these two variables are to be performed numerically, whereas the ingredients involved in the integrands, in particular the “generalised one-loop type” functions, are computed analytically. The idea is illustrated on a few examples of scalar three- and four-point functions.
Exotic branes and mixed-symmetry potentials. I. Predictions from E11 symmetry
Authors: Fernández-Melgarejo José J , Sakatani Yuho , Uehara Shozo
Published: February 2020

Type II string theory or M-theory contains a broad spectrum of gauge potentials. In addition to the standard $p$-form potentials, various mixed-symmetry potentials have been predicted, which may couple to exotic branes with non-standard tensions. Together with $p$-forms, mixed-symmetry potentials turn out to be essential to build the multiplets of the $U$-duality symmetry in each dimension. In this paper, we systematically determine the set of mixed-symmetry potentials and exotic branes on the basis of the $E_{11}$ conjecture. We also study the decompositions of $U$-duality multiplets into $T$-duality multiplets and determine which mixed-symmetry tensors are contained in each of the $U$-/$T$-duality multiplets.
Human Capital and Macroeconomic Development: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Rossi Federico
Published: February 2020

The role of human capital in facilitating macroeconomic development is at the center of both academic and policy debates. Through the lens of a simple aggregate production function, human capital might increase output per capita by directly entering in the production process, incentivizing the accumulation of complementary inputs, and facilitating the adoption of new technologies. This paper discusses the advantages and limitations of three approaches that have been used to evaluate the empirical importance of these channels: cross-country regressions, development accounting, and quantitative models. The key findings in the literature are reviewed and some of them are replicated using updated data. The bulk of the evidence suggests that human capital is an important determinant of cross-country income gaps, especially when its measurement is broadened to go beyond simple proxies of educational attainment. The paper concludes by highlighting policy implications and promising avenues for future work.
Species Identification in Plant-Associated Prokaryotes and Fungi Using DNA
Authors: Inderbitzin Patrik , Robbertse Barbara , Schoch Conrad L.
Published: February 2020

Species names are fundamental to managing biological information. The surge of interest in microbial diversity has resulted in an increase in the number of microbes that need to be identified and assigned a species name. This article provides an introduction to the principles of DNA-based identification of Archaea and Bacteria traditionally known as prokaryotes, and Fungi, the Oomycetes and other protists, collectively referred to as fungi. The prokaryotes and fungi are the most commonly studied microbes from plants, and we introduce the most relevant concepts of prokaryote and fungal taxonomy and nomenclature. We first explain how prokaryote and fungal species are defined, delimited, and named, and then summarize the criteria and methods used to identify prokaryote and fungal organisms to species.
Preeclampsia and the anaesthesiologist: current management
Authors: Russell Robin
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

Preeclampsia remains an important cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Recent interest in angiogenic biomarkers as a prognostic indicator is reviewed, together with analgesic, anaesthetic and critical-care management of the preeclamptic patient.

Recent findings

There has been recent interest in the angiogenic biomarkers placental growth factor and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 in establishing the diagnosis of preeclampsia and guiding its management. Neuraxial blocks are recommended for both labour and operative delivery if not contraindicated by thrombocytopenia or coagulopathy, although a safe lower limit for platelet numbers has not been established. For spinal hypotension phenylephrine is noninferior to ephedrine in preeclamptic parturients and may offer some benefits. When general anaesthesia is required, efforts must be made to blunt the hypertensive response to laryngoscopy and intubation. Transthoracic echocardiography has emerged as useful technique to monitor maternal haemodynamics in preeclampsia.

Improvements in the diagnosis of preeclampsia may lead to better outcomes for mothers and babies. Peripartum care requires a multidisciplinary team approach with many preeclamptic women receiving neuraxial analgesia or anaesthesia. Women with severe preeclampsia may require critical-care support and this should meet the same standards afforded to other acutely unwell patients.
Expression of Glial Cell Line-derived Neurotrophic Factor in the Human Intervertebral Disc
Authors: Yamada Junichi , Akeda Koji , Sano Tomohiko , Iwasaki Tatsuya , Takegami Norihiko , Sudo Akihiro
Published: February 2020

Study Design.

Biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses by the human intervertebral disc (IVD) cells and tissues.

Objective.

To examine the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and its receptors, GDNF family receptor (GFR) α1 and rearranged during transfection (RET) in the human IVD cells and the tissues with the early and advanced stages of degeneration.

Summary of Background Data.

The neurotrophin family, including nerve growth factor, has been reported to be expressed in the IVDs and plays a role in hyperalgesia and neuronal sensitization. Despite having properties similar to the nerve growth factor, the expression of GDNF in the IVD remains unknown.

Methods.

Human IVD cells were cultured in monolayer. Immunohistochemical analyses and western blotting were performed to examine the protein levels of GDNF and its receptors. To examine the effect of proinflammatory cytokines, cells were cultured in the presence of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The immunohistochemical expression of these proteins was also evaluated using human IVD tissues with different stages of degeneration.

Results.

Immunofluorescent reactivity against anti-GDNF, GFRα1, and RET antibodies was identified in human IVD cells. In protein extracts from IVD cells, those protein expressions were also identified by Western blot. IL-1β significantly stimulated the mRNA expression of GDNF compared with that of the control group. There was no significant effect of IL-1β on the mRNA expression of GFRα1 and RET. The percentage of GDNF-immunopositive cells in advanced degenerated discs was significantly higher than that in early degenerated discs, whereas those of GFRα1 and RET showed no significant differences.

Conclusions.

GDNF and its receptors were constitutively expressed in the human IVD cells. GDNF expression was significantly enhanced by proinflammatory stimuli, and in the microenvironment with advanced tissue degeneration.

Level of Evidence: N/A.
Disinfection by-product exposures and the risk of musculoskeletal birth defects
Authors: Kaufman John A. , Wright J. Michael , Evans Amanda , Rivera-Núñez Zorimar , Meyer Amy , Narotsky Michael G.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Epidemiologic studies suggest that exposure to water disinfection by-products (DBPs) may increase the risk of certain birth defects. However, evidence for musculoskeletal defects (MSDs) is limited. Previous MSD studies have not examined DBPs beyond trihalomethanes (THMs) and have not separately examined limb or diaphragm defects which may have distinct developmental etiologies.

Methods:

We calculated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) in a registry-based case-control study of birth defects in Massachusetts with complete quarterly 1999–2004 data on four THMs and five haloacetic acids (HAAs). We matched 10 controls each to 187 MSD cases based on week of conception. Weight-averaged town-level first-trimester DBP exposures were individually assigned based on residence at birth. We adjusted THM models for exposure to the sum of five HAAs (HAA5), and HAA models for the sum of four THMs (THM4).

Results:

We detected positive exposure-response associations for all grouped MSDs with THM4 quintiles (aOR range: 1.90–3.18) and chloroform quartiles (aOR range: 1.30–2.21), and for reduction of upper or lower limbs with chloroform quartiles (aOR range: 2.39–3.52). We detected elevated aORs for diaphragmatic hernia with DBP9 (sum of THM4 and HAA5), and chloroform and bromodichloromethane tertiles and an exposure-response relationship for THM4 tertiles (aOR range: 1.67–1.80).

Conclusion:

This is the first epidemiologic study to examine HAAs in relation to MSDs. Given the indirect nature of our exposure assessment data and small case numbers, the exposure-response relationships that we detected for THM4 and chloroform warrant further investigation.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Meropenem in Critically Ill Patients With Acute Kidney Injury Treated With Continuous Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Niibe Yoko , Suzuki Tatsuya , Yamazaki Shingo , Suzuki Takaaki , Takahashi Nozomi , Hattori Noriyuki , Nakada Taka-aki , Oda Shigeto , Ishii Itsuko
Published: February 2020

Background:

The aim of this study was to conduct a population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis of meropenem and to explore the optimal dosing strategy for meropenem in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury receiving treatment with continuous hemodiafiltration (CHDF).

Methods:

Blood samples were obtained on days 1, 2, and 5 after the start of meropenem administration, immediately before dosing, and at 1, 2, 6, and 8 hours after dosing. Population PK model analysis was performed and concentration-time profiles were simulated using the Nonlinear Mixed Effects Model software.

Results:

Twenty-one patients receiving CHDF in our intensive care unit were enrolled and 350 serum concentration–time data points were obtained. The PKs of meropenem were best described using a 2-compartment model. Typical total and intercompartmental clearance values were 4.22 L/h and 7.84 L/h, respectively, whereas the central and peripheral compartment volumes of distribution were 14.82 L and 11.75 L, respectively. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was identified as a significant covariate of meropenem total clearance. In simulations of patients with renal failure receiving CHDF, the dose was affected by estimated glomerular filtration rate; a dose of 0.5 g every 8 hours or 1 g every 12 hours showed the probability of target attainment of achieving 100% time above the minimum inhibitory concentration for bacteria with a minimum inhibitory concentration ≤2 mg/L.

Conclusions:

A population PK model was developed for meropenem in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury receiving CHDF. Our results indicated that a meropenem dosage of 0.5 g every 8 hours or 1 g every 12 hours was suitable in this population and for susceptible bacteria.
Development and Validation of an Open-Source Grading Tool for Outcome Assessment in Limbal Stem Cell Treatment
Authors: Behaegel Joséphine , Consejo Alejandra , Wouters Kristien , Koppen Carina , De Cock Joost , Ní Dhubhghaill Sorcha
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To design a grading system and validate an open-source tool to improve objective quantification and follow-up of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) after treatment.

Methods:

A custom-made web-based grading system was developed for grading stem cell deficient eyes, termed the “Vascularisation, Haze, and Integrity” tool. For validation purposes, 60 corneal slit-lamp images of 30 limbal stem cell deficient eyes were graded by 3 groups of examiners: 3 corneal specialists (group A), 3 ophthalmologists with an expertise other than cornea (group B), and 3 nonclinicians (group C). The intragrader and intergrader agreement was evaluated using Fleiss weighted kappa coefficients and concurrent assessment of interrater and intrarater reliability (IRR) coefficients.

Results:

The overall intergrader agreement was 0.78, 0.61, and 0.42 for superficial corneal vascularization, corneal haze, and epithelial integrity, respectively. All groups had good agreement for the vascularization parameter with the highest intergrader reliability in group A (IRR = 0.80) and the lowest in group C (IRR = 0.72). When assessing “haze,” there was good agreement in groups A (IRR = 0.75) and B (IRR = 0.76) but low agreement in group C (IRR = 0.37).

Conclusions:

We report the development and evaluation of a novel method for grading results of limbal stem cell deficient eyes after treatment and provide this system as a free, open-source online tool. The grading tool offers an easy and standardized way of assessing the corneal surface in patients with LSCD, enables evaluation of progression over time, reduces assessment bias, and—if adopted universally—will harmonize outcome being reported between groups.
Diagnosis and Management of Acute Thrombosis in Venous Dominant Orbital Venolymphatic Malformations
Authors: Grob Seanna R. , Bokman Christine , Nathe Connor , Rootman Daniel B. , Feldman Kenneth A.
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To report the characteristic clinical and imaging findings in a series of patients with thrombosed orbital venolymphatic malformations.

Methods:

Patients affected by acute thrombosis of an orbital venolymphatic malformation were reviewed. Clinical findings including symptoms and signs of presentation, characteristic imaging features, and clinical course are presented.

Results:

Ten patients were identified. The mean age at presentation was 56 years. All patients presented with acute pain or pressure sensation, with the most common additional presenting symptoms being proptosis (6/10) and diplopia (5/10). CT imaging typically demonstrated a nonspecific orbital mass. Nine patients underwent MRI which revealed a soft tissue mass with peripheral rim enhancement and a central, typically T2 hypointense, core. Seven out of 10 patients were observed and had improvement in symptoms and signs without surgical intervention. Two patients underwent surgical intervention for intractable pain.

Conclusion:

Patients with thrombosis of a venolymphatic malformation often present with acute pain, proptosis, and diplopia. Characteristic MRI findings of a peripheral rim enhancing mass with a T2 hypointense core can be noted. Careful observation is a reasonable management option for cases without visual compromise or intractable pain.
A Rare Hideout for Caterpillar Hairs
Authors: Rajagopalan Jayagayathri , Joy Anupama , Yadalla Dayakar , Assadi Fatima Amanath
Published: February 2020

Ophthalmia nodosa is an inflammatory reaction of ocular tissues in response to caterpillar setae. Setae are fibers produced by a number of insects and plants, and there are extensive reports of cases caused by caterpillars and spiders. These hairs are covered by microscopic barbs that facilitate their entry and migration into the ocular tissues resulting in severe inflammation. They are predominantly found buried in the conjunctiva and cornea. Rarely, they may penetrate through the cornea to enter the anterior chamber, lens, and posterior segment. Caterpillar hair in the meibomian gland orifice is a rare presentation and has not been reported previously.
Optic capture after intrascleral haptic fixation: February consultation #1
Authors: Fram Nicole
Published: February 2020

A 45-year-old man was originally referred for management of spontaneous subluxation of the inferior haptic of a 3-piece intraocular lens (IOL) into the anterior chamber of the right eye (Figure 1). He had a significant past ocular history of laser–assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in both eyes, pars plana vitrectomy/scleral buckle for retinal detachment repair in the right eye, and pseudophakia in both eyes. The corrected distance visual acuity was 20/200 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Of note, he had severe iridodonesis, a 2+ pigmented cell in the anterior chamber without significant pseudophacodonesis and the posterior capsule was intact with striae. The referring physician attempted a refixation surgery that failed, and the patient was ultimately left aphakic.

JOURNAL/jcrs/04.03/02158034-202002000-00026/figure1/v/2023-08-19T002530Z/r/image-tiff

Next, a secondary 3-piece posterior chamber (PC) IOL (CT Lucia 602, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG) was fixated with the Yamane flanged intrascleral haptic fixation technique (ISHF). A surgical peripheral iridotomy (PI) was made with the vitrector to avoid pupillary capture postoperatively.

On postoperative day 1 the patient had a well-centered PC IOL and uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/30. However, on postoperative day 14 the patient complained of decreased vision as the UCVA dropped to 20/100 and pupillary capture of the optic was noted. In addition, there was a 3+ pigmented cell in the anterior chamber, pigment dusting on the anterior surface of the PC IOL, and an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 32 mm Hg (Figure 2).

JOURNAL/jcrs/04.03/02158034-202002000-00026/figure2/v/2023-08-19T002530Z/r/image-tiff

What additional testing would you consider? How would you manage this patient's problem?
Exploring the neural correlates of touch and pain in women with provoked vestibulodynia
Authors: Sutton Katherine S. , Yessick Lindsey R. , Wild Conor J. , Chamberlain Susan M. , Pukall Caroline F.
Published: February 2020

Group differences in touch and pain thresholds—and their neural correlates—were studied in women with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD; N = 15), a common subtype of vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain), and pain-free control women (N = 15). Results from quantitative sensory testing and self-report measures indicated that, as compared with control participants, women with PVD exhibited allodynia (ie, pain in response to a normally nonpainful stimulus) and hyperalgesia (ie, an increased response to a normally painful stimulus) at vulvar and nonvulvar sites. In addition, brain imaging analyses demonstrated reduced difference scores between touch and pain in the S2 area in women with PVD compared with control participants, supporting previous findings of allodynia in women with PVD. There were no significant reductions in difference scores between touch and pain for regions related to cognitive and affective processing of painful stimuli. The results of this study contribute important information to the general pain and vulvodynia literatures in elucidating the specific sensorimotor neural mechanisms that underlie hyperalgesia in a chronic pain population. These results have implications for differentiating neural processing of touch and pain for women with and without PVD. Future research should attempt to examine alterations related to hyperalgesia in commonly comorbid conditions of PVD.
Bodily changes and sensory sensitivity in complex regional pain syndrome and fibromyalgia
Authors: Ten Brink Antonia F. , Peters Louisa , Kompouli Paraskevi-Ioanna , Jordan Abbie , McCabe Candida S. , Goebel Andreas , Bultitude Janet H.
Published: February 2020

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and fibromyalgia are chronic pain conditions of unexplained origins. In addition to symptoms in the diagnostic criteria, patients can report changes to vision and other sensations or bodily functions. It is unclear whether these are greater than would be expected due to normal ageing, living with chronic pain generally, or common comorbidities of chronic pain such as depression or anxiety. We administered an on-line survey evaluating the frequencies and types of self-reported somatic symptoms, bodily changes, and sensory sensitivity in respondents with CRPS (n = 390), fibromyalgia (n = 425), and both CRPS and fibromyalgia (“CRPS+fibromyalgia”; n = 88) compared to respondents with other chronic pain conditions (n = 331) and pain-free controls (n = 441). The survey assessed somatic symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-15), bodily changes, pain/discomfort/distress triggers, and pain intensifiers. We conducted analysis of covariance's with age, sex, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (measuring depression), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, pain duration in years, hours of pain per day, and number of pain-related medical diagnoses as covariates. After controlling for covariates, respondents with CRPS and/or fibromyalgia reported more somatic symptoms, changes in movement and biological responses, pain/discomfort/distress triggers, and pain intensifiers than pain(-free) control groups. Fibromyalgia specifically related to changes in vision and hearing, urinary/intestinal function, and drinking and eating. Complex regional pain syndrome related to changes in hair, skin, and nails; and infection and healing. The CRPS+fibromyalgia group presented with features of both disorders with minimal additional stressors or symptoms over and above these. Our findings suggest that CRPS and fibromyalgia share underlying pathophysiologies, although specific mechanisms might be different.
Mental Demands at the Workplace—Are Information Load, Time Control, and Exploration Associated With Depressiveness?
Authors: Hussenoeder Felix S. , Conrad Ines , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Rodriguez Francisca S.
Published: February 2020

Objective:

According to self-determination theory, autonomy and competence are two essential basic human needs. It is the aim of this study to show that mental demands at the workplace (WPMDs) that address those basic needs can protect employees against depressiveness.

Methods:

Using a sample of 346 working participants (average age 56.2), we derived three WPMDs (Information Load, Time Control, and Exploration) via principal component analysis. We then analyzed how far they predict depressiveness, and how far this mechanism is mediated by perceived fit between job and person (PJF).

Results:

Time Control and Exploration significantly reduced depressiveness, and the relationship between exploration and depressiveness was mediated by PJF.

Conclusions:

Our results emphasize the importance of addressing basic human needs at the workplace, and the relevance of PJF for employee mental health.
The correlation between intestinal mucosal lesions and hepatic dysfunction in patients without chronic liver disease
Authors: Wu Li-Hao , Chen Mei-Hui , Cai Jie-Yi , Yuan Yu , Wu Li-Quan , Zhou Hui-Min , Li Lan , Wan Kayiu , He Xing-Xiang
Published: February 2020

Patients with cirrhosis are known to develop small bowel mucosal lesions. However, the occurrence of mucosal lesions in patients with abnormal liver function test results in the absence of chronic liver disease has not been fully evaluated. This study aims to examine the association between small bowel endoscopic lesions and liver dysfunction in patients without confirmed chronic liver disease.

Two hundred ninety six consecutive patients who met the selection criteria underwent capsule endoscopy. The severity of the small intestinal mucosal lesions was evaluated quantitatively using the Lewis scoring system, and hepatic dysfunction was evaluated using an algorithm-based combination scoring system with 8 individual serological markers.

Small bowel lesions were observed in 121 patients (40.88%). Hepatic dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in patients with small bowel lesions than in those without lesions (33.1%; 40/121 and 5.7%; 10/175, respectively; P < .001). The mean serum ALT and AST levels were significantly higher in patients with small bowel lesions than in those without lesions (P = .007 and P = .004, respectively). The mean scores for AST to Platelet Ratio Index, Forns Index, S-Index, Fibrosis-4 Index and BARD were significantly higher in patients with small bowel lesions than those without lesions. The Lewis score significantly and positively correlated with the Forns Index (P = .008) and the FIB-4 Index (P = .006).

There is a close correlation between small intestinal mucosal lesions and hepatic dysfunction. The severity of hepatic dysfunction is directly proportional to the severity of the small intestinal mucosal lesions in patients without confirmed chronic liver disease.
MicroRNA-206 predicts raised fetal growth retardation risk through the interaction with vascular endothelial growth factor in pregnancies
Authors: Li Ying , Liu Jiaqiang
Published: February 2020

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of microRNA (miR)-206, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and miR-206/VEGF axis at different gestational ages with fetal growth retardation (FGR) risk in pregnancies.

Eight hundred twenty pregnancies were consecutively recruited and their plasma samples were collected at early pregnancy (gestational age ≤ 13 weeks), middle pregnancy (gestational age: 14–27 weeks) and late pregnancy (gestational age ≥ 28 weeks), respectively. miR-206 expression and VEGF level in plasma were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay respectively. FGR was diagnosed based on the actual birth weight of fetus.

miR-206 expression was negatively correlated with VEGF expression at early pregnancy, middle pregnancy and late pregnancy. Besides, miR-206 expression and miR-206/VEGF axis were elevated, but VEGF expression was decreased along with the increased gestational age. There were 74 FGR pregnancies and 746 non-FGR pregnancies. And both miR-206 expression and miR-206/VEGF axis were increased, but VEGF expression was reduced in FGR group compared to non-FGR group at early pregnancy, middle pregnancy and late pregnancy. Additionally, miR-206, VEGF and miR-206/VEGF axis at middle pregnancy and late pregnancy all showed good predictive values for FGR risk, and these indexes at late pregnancy exhibited the numerically highest predictive value for FGR risk. Furthermore, compared to miR-206 or VEGF alone, miR-206/VEGF axis presented with numerically higher predictive value for FGR risk.

miR-206 predicts raised FGR risk through the interaction with VEGF in pregnancies, and it may serve as a novel biomarker for FGR prevention.
Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 expression level in prostate cancer tissues predicts the prognosis of patients with prostate cancer
Authors: Xia Qier , Li Jun , Yang Zhenyu , Zhang Dingguo , Tian Jinjun , Gu Bin
Published: February 2020

Long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA SNHG7) is located on chromosome 9q34.3 in length of 984 bp. SNHG7 has been found to play the role of oncogene in varieties of cancers, and its dysregulation has been found to be associated with carcinogenesis and progression. In the present study, we examined the expression of SNHG7 in prostate cancer tissues and in paired adjacent normal prostate tissues, and we further explored the clinical significance and prognostic value of SNHG7 in prostate cancer patients.

A total of 127 prostate cancer tissues were collected from prostate cancer patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between April 2011 and March 2019 at the department of urology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction experiment was performed to detect the relative expressions of SNHG7 in the prostate cancer tissues and normal prostate tissues. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to create survival curves and the log-rank test was used to determine statistical significance. A Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic factors in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Compared with paired adjacent normal prostatic tissues, SNHG7 expression was increased in prostate cancer tissues (P < .001). Increased SNHG7 expression correlated with Gleason score (P = .021), bone metastasis (P = .013), pelvic lymph node metastasis (P = .008), and TNM stage (P = .007). Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed increased SNHG7 expression was independently associated with a poor prognosis of prostate cancer patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.839, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.921–8.382, P = .038).

This study showed that lncRNA-SNHG7 was overexpressed in prostate cancer tissues, and it might contributes to the development and progression of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the SNHG7 expression was associated with the prognosis of prostate cancer, suggesting a potential target for the treatment and prognosis of prostate cancer. Nevertheless, the underlying modulatory mechanism by which SNHG7 aggravates prostate cancer progression need to be further studied.
The effect of focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy on myofascial pain syndrome of trapezius
Authors: Yoo Jun-Il , Oh Min-Kyun , Chun Se-Woong , Lee Shi-Uk , Lee Chang Han
Published: February 2020

Background:

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is commonly seen in clinical settings and negatively influences a patient's daily life. Recently, the application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been utilized as one of the treatment methods for MPS. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the current evidence for the short-term effect of ESWT on MPS of trapezius.

Methods:

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from the database inception to March 2019. Two reviewers independently screened articles, evaluated methodological quality, and extracted data. The primary outcome was post-interventional pain intensity.

Results:

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to determine whether ESWT was used as the main treatment on MPS. The 5 studies reviewed in this meta-analysis were evaluated for changes in pain intensity. Compared with other treatments, focused ESWT in MPS was more effective in reducing the scores of visual analog scale (VAS) (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.48, 95% CI −0.74 to −0.22).

Conclusions:

There is very low level evidence that focused ESWT is effective for short-term relief of neck pain in MPS. The limited sample size and poor quality of these studies highlight and support the need for large scale, good quality placebo controlled trials in this area.
Ecological study on needs and cost of treatment for dental caries in schoolchildren aged 6, 12, and 15 years
Authors: Medina-Solís Carlo E. , Ávila-Burgos Leticia , Borges-Yañez Socorro A. , Irigoyen-Camacho María E. , Sánchez-Pérez Leonor , Zepeda-Zepeda Marco A. , Lucas-Rincón Salvador E. , Medina-Solís June J. , Márquez-Corona María de L. , Islas-Granillo Horacio , Casanova-Rosado Juan F. , Casanova-Rosado Alejandro J. , Minaya-Sánchez Mirna , Villalobos-Rodelo Juan J. , Patiño-Marín Nuria , Mendoza-Rodríguez Martha , Pontigo-Loyola América P. , de la Rosa-Santillana Rubén , Escoffié-Ramirez Mauricio , Fernández-Barrera Miguel A. , Maupomé Gerardo
Published: February 2020

To determine the treatment needs and the care index for dental caries in the primary dentition and permanent dentition of schoolchildren and to quantify the cost of care that would represent the treatment of dental caries in Mexico.

A secondary analysis of data from the First National Caries Survey was conducted, which was a cross-sectional study conducted in the 32 states of Mexico. Based on dmft (average number of decayed, extracted, and filled teeth in the primary dentition) and DMFT (average number of decayed, extracted, and filled teeth in permanent dentition) information, a treatment needs index (TNI) and a caries care index (CI) were calculated.

At age 6
, the TNI for the primary dentition ranged from 81.7% to 99.5% and the CI ranged from 0.5% to 17.6%. In the permanent dentition, the TNI ranged from 58.8% to 100%, and the CI ranged from 0.0% to 41.2%.
At age 12
, the TNI ranged from 55.4% to 93.4%, and the CI ranged from 6.5% to 43.4%.
At age 15
, the TNI ranged from 50.4% to 98.4%, and the CI ranged from 1.4% to 48.3%. The total cost of treatment at 6 years of age was estimated to range from a purchasing power parity (PPP) of USD $49.1 to 287.7 million in the primary dentition, and from a PPP of USD $3.7 to 24 million in the permanent dentition. For the treatment of the permanent dentition of 12-year-olds, the PPP ranged from USD $13.3 to 85.4 million. The estimated cost of treatment of the permanent dentition of the 15-year-olds ranged from a PPP of USD $10.9 to 70.3 million. The total estimated cost of caries treatment ranged from a PPP of USD $77.1 to 499.6 million, depending on the type of treatment and provider (public or private).

High percentages of TNI for dental caries and low CI values were observed. The estimated costs associated with the treatment for caries have an impact because they represent a considerable percentage of the total health expenditure in Mexico.
Accuracy augmentation of body composition measurement by bioelectrical impedance analyzer in elderly population
Authors: Fang Wen-Hui , Yang Jie-Ru , Lin Chih-Ying , Hsiao Po-Jen , Tu Ming-Yu , Chen Chien-Fu , Tsai Dung-Jang , Su Wen , Huang Guo-Shu , Chang Hung , Su Sui-Lung
Published: February 2020

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is currently the most commonly used method in clinical practice to measure body composition. However, the bioelectrical impedance analyzer is not designed according to different countries, races, and elderly populations. Because different races may have different body compositions, a prediction model for the elderly population in Taiwan should be developed to avoid population bias, thereby improving the accuracy of community evaluation surveys.

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used as a standard method for comparison, and impedance analysis was used for the development of a highly accurate predictive model that is suitable for assessing the body composition of elderly people.

This study employed a cross-sectional design and recruited 438 elderly people who were undergoing health examinations at the health management center in the Tri-Service General Hospital as study subjects. Basic demographic variables and impedance analysis values were used in four predictive models, namely, linear regression, random forest, support vector machine (SVM), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) models, to predict DXA body composition. The data from 354 study subjects were used to develop the predictive model, while the data from 84 study subjects were used to validate the accuracy of the predictive model.

The body composition of elderly people as estimated by InBody 720 was highly correlated with that estimated by DXA. The correlation coefficient between InBody 720 and DXA for muscle mass was 0.969, and that for fat mass was 0.935. Consistency analysis results showed that InBody 720 tends to underestimate muscle mass and fat mass. A comparison of the accuracy of the linear regression, random forest, SVM, and XGBoost models showed that the linear regression has the highest accuracy. The correlation coefficient between the new model and DXA for muscle mass and fat mass were 0.977 and 0.978, respectively.

The new predictive model can be used to monitor the nutrition status of elderly people and identify people with sarcopenia in the community.