bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotic prophylaxis for urinary catheter manipulation following arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Roberts Tobias , Smith Toby O. , Simon Henry , Goodmaker Charles , Hing Caroline B.
Published: January 2021

Background

Urinary catheter use in the peri‐ and post‐operative phase following arthroplasty may be associated with urinary tract infection (UTI) and deep prosthetic joint infection (PJI). These can be catastrophic complications in joint arthroplasty. We performed a systematic review of the evidence on use of antibiotics for urinary catheter insertion and removal following arthroplasty.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched using the Healthcare Databases Advanced Search interface. Grey literature was searched. From 219 citations, six studies were deemed eligible for review. Due to study heterogeneity, a narrative approach was adopted. Methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme appraisal tool.

Results

A total of 4696 hip and knee arthroplasties were performed on 4578 participants across all studies. Of these, 1475 (31%) were on men and 3189 (68%) on women. The mean age of study participants was 69 years. Three thousand four hundred and eighty‐nine cases (74.3%) were related to hip arthroplasty and 629 (13.4%) to knee arthroplasty. Five hundred and seventy‐eight (12.3%) were either hip or knee arthroplasty. Forty‐five PJIs were reported across all studies (0.96%). Two studies found either no PJI or no statistical difference in the rate of PJI when no antibiotic prophylaxis was used for catheter manipulation. Another study found no statistical difference in PJI rates between patients with or without preoperative bacteriuria. Where studies report potential haematogenous spread from UTIs, this association can only be assumed. Increased duration of urinary catheterization is positively associated with UTI.

Conclusion

It remains difficult to justify the use of prophylactic antibiotics for catheter manipulation in well patients. Their use is not recommended for this indication.
Endometrial sampling before or after saline contrast sonohysterography in women with postmenopausal bleeding (ESPRESSO trial): A multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vroom Albertine J. , Aerts Luca , Bongers Marlies Y. , Lim Arianne C. , Pielkenrood Bart J. , Geomini Peggy M. A. J. , van Hanegem Nehalennia
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of the endometrial sample obtained by office endometrial aspiration when performed before or after saline contrast sonohysterography (SCSH) in women with postmenopausal bleeding and a thickened endometrium. To conduct a complete, minimally invasive and cost‐effective diagnostic workup in women with postmenopausal bleeding and a thickened endometrium, ideally both the office endometrial sampling and SCSH are performed. However, it is not known whether both tests affect each other when performed one after another.

Material and methods

Women with postmenopausal bleeding and an endometrial thickness >4 mm were eligible. Women were randomized into two groups: one group received endometrial aspiration before SCSH, the other group received SCSH before endometrial aspiration. The primary outcome was the proportion of sufficient endometrial samples. Reliability of the SCSH images and pain during procedures were secondary outcomes.

Results

During the inclusion period, 513 eligible women with postmenopausal bleeding visited the participating hospitals, 293 of whom received information about the study. Of these women, 232 (79%) agreed to participate. In the SCSH‐aspiration group, 65 women (59%) had a sufficient endometrial sample compared with 70 (67%) in the aspiration‐SCSH group (odds ratio 1.46, 95% CI 0.83‐2.54, P = .19). The proportion of reliable sonographic images was significantly higher in the SCSH‐aspiration group (n = 88, 87%) compared with the aspiration‐SCSH group (n = 71, 74%) (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.38‐4.99, P = .02) in the per protocol analysis.

Conclusions

This study shows that the quality of an endometrial sample in women with postmenopausal bleeding is not affected by SCSH. Both procedures can be performed in one outpatient visit to perform an optimal diagnostic workup.
Proximal lacrimal obstructions: a review
Authors: Fiorino Maria Grazia , Quaranta‐Leoni Claudia , Quaranta‐Leoni Francesco M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The aims of the review are to summarize the aethiopathogenesis, management and outcomes of different treatments of proximal lacrimal obstructions.

Methods

An electronic database (PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar) search of all articles written in English and non‐English language with abstract translated to English on proximal lacrimal obstructions was performed. The articles were reviewed along with their relevant cross references. Data reviewed included demographics, presentations, investigations, management, complications and outcomes.

Results

Punctoplasty is as effective as punctal dilatation with monocanalicular or bicanalicular stent in case of punctal stenosis. Dacryocystorhinostomy with retrograde intubation is more effective in case of proximal canalicular obstructions than in case of mid‐canalicular obstructions. Trephination and intubation is effective in both mid and distal canalicular obstructions in patients with no associated nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Canaliculodacryocystorhinostomy has a specific indication in case of proximal common canalicular obstruction. Bypass surgery is the preferred treatment if there is no residual patency, however surgical success may not match patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Optimal choice of surgical method depends on identification of the site of obstruction. Mini‐invasive techniques should be avoided in cases that would only benefit from standard surgical treatment.
Immunotyping in tubo‐ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma by PD‐L1 and CD8+ T‐lymphocytes predicts disease‐free survival
Authors: Bansal Akriti , Srinivasan Radhika , Rohilla Manish , Rai Bhavana , Rajwanshi Arvind , Suri Vanita , Chandra Saha Subhas
Published: January 2021

PD‐L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor expression was evaluated in high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) ovary in the context of the overall immune landscape to determine its prognostic value. Consecutive cases of HGSC, 50 who underwent upfront surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy (HGSC‐U) and 50 who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by interval debulking surgery (HGSC‐PC) were selected. In HGSC‐PC cases, the pre‐NACT ascitic fluid cell blocks were included. Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were scored, hotspots chosen for tissue microarray construction and immunohistochemistry performed and scored for CD4 and CD8 lymphocyte subsets, CD68+ tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs), PD‐1 and PD‐L1 expression. HGSC‐post‐chemotherapy showed increased TILs, predominantly CD8+T‐lymphocytes, compared to HGSC‐U. HGSC showed PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells and/or TAMs in 60% cases with a linear correlation to CD4+, CD8+ TIL levels. Concordant PD‐L1 expression was seen in matched pre‐ and post‐NACT tumor cells. HGSC‐PC showed higher expression of PD‐L1. There was no association of PD‐L1 cumulative proportion score or tumor cell score with outcome. Taking a cutoff for PD‐L1 CPS at 10%, immunotype I (PD‐L1+/CD‐8+), corresponding to tumors with adaptive immune evasion, showed worst disease‐free survival compared to all other immunotypes (p = 0.03) and was more significant (p = 0.01) when compared to immunotype III (PD‐L1+/CD8−). Immunotyping based on PD‐L1/CD8+ expression correlates to prognosis and outcome.
Prognostic role of TSPAN1, KIAA1324 and ESRP1 in prostate cancer
Authors: Stinnesbeck Melissa , Kristiansen Anna , Ellinger Jörg , Hauser Stefan , Egevad Lars , Tolkach Yuri , Kristiansen Glen
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to validate prostate cancer‐associated genes on transcript level and to assess the prognostic value of the most promising markers by immunohistochemistry. Based on differentially expressed genes found in a previous study, 84 genes were further validated using mRNA expression data and follow‐up information from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) prostate cancer cohort (n = 497). Immunohistochemistry was used for validation of three genes in an independent, clinically annotated prostatectomy patient cohort (n = 175) with biochemical relapse as endpoint. Also, associations with clinicopathological variables were evaluated. Eleven protein‐coding genes from the list of 84 genes were associated with biochemical recurrence‐free survival on mRNA expression level in multivariate Cox‐analyses. Three of these genes (TSPAN1, ESRP1 and KIAA1324) were immunohistochemically validated using an independent cohort of prostatectomy patients. Both ESRP1 and KIAA1324 were independently associated with biochemical recurrence‐free survival. TSPAN1 was univariately prognostic but failed significance on multivariate analysis, probably due to its strong correlation with high Gleason scores. Multistep filtering using the publicly available TCGA cohort, data of an earlier expression profiling study which profiled 3023 cancer‐associated transcripts in 42 primary prostate cancer cases, identified two novel candidate prognostic markers (ESRP1 and KIAA1324) of primary prostate cancer for further study.
The role and mechanism of the annexin A1 peptide Ac2‐26 in rats with cardiopulmonary bypass lung injury
Authors: Xu Jiyang , Yu Chengkun , Luo Junli , Guo Yuhan , Cheng Chi , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2021

The main causes of lung injury after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) are systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and pulmonary ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (IR‐I). SIRS and IR‐I are often initiated by a systemic inflammatory response. The present study investigated whether the annexin A1 (ANX‐A1) peptidomimetic Ac2‐26 by binding to formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) inhibit inflammatory cytokines and reduce lung injury after CPB. Male rats were randomized to the following five groups (n = 6, each): sham, exposed to pulmonary ischaemic‐reperfusion (IR‐I), IR‐I plus Ac2‐26, IR‐I plus the FPR antagonist, BoC2 (N‐tert‐butyloxycarbonyl‐Phe‐Leu‐Phe‐Leu‐Phe) and IR‐I plus Ac2‐26 and BoC2. Treatment with Ac2‐26 improved the oxygenation index, an effect blocked by BoC2. Histopathological analysis of the lung tissue revealed that the degree of lung injury was significantly less (P < 0.05) in the Ac2‐26‐treated rats compared to the other experimental groups exposed to IR‐I. Ac2‐26 treatment reduced the levels of the inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1β, ICAM‐1 and NF‐κB‐p65 (P < 0.05) compared to the vehicle‐treated group exposed to IR‐I. In conclusion, the annexin A1 (ANX‐A1) peptidomimetic Ac2‐26 by binding to formyl peptide receptors inhibit inflammatory cytokines and reduce ischaemic‐reperfusion lung injury after cardiopulmonary bypass.
The effect of class size on grades and course evaluations: Evidence from multisection courses
Authors: Karas Alexei
Published: January 2021

Using rich administrative data from a small Dutch liberal arts college, I study how the number of students enrolled in a course affects student grades and course evaluations. Exploiting variation across parallel sections of the same course taught by the same instructor, I show that class size has a significant negative effect on student grades in mandatory courses, but not in electives. I show similar results for various components of student course evaluations: perceived overall course quality, perceived amount learned, student participation and engagement. I interpret these findings to be consistent with class size affecting educational outcomes through student engagement.
Detrital zircon and rutile U–Pb, Hf isotopes and heavy mineral assemblages of Israeli Miocene sands: Fingerprinting the Arabian provenance of the Levant
Authors: Morag Navot , Avigad Dov , Gerdes Axel , Abbo Avishai
Published: January 2021

Isolated, Miocene continental basins scattered over Israel and Jordan represent the remnants of a continental‐wide fluvial system, which originated in Arabia and transported siliciclastic sediments westward to the deep Levant Basin. These basins define two geographically separated sedimentary provinces. The detrital zircon age spectra in both provinces are dominated by Neoproterozoic U‐Pb ages (550–1,000 Ma), resembling those of Paleozoic‐Mesozoic sandstones exposed along the uplifted Red Sea Rift flank. However, while the southern province exhibits two prominent peaks at ~600 and ~1,000 Ma, similar to those seen in Cambrian‐Ordovician sandstones in southern Israel and Jordan, the northern province shows an additional significant age peak at ~800 Ma and its overall spectrum resembles that of Devonian sandstones in northern Saudi Arabia. These variations distinguish the two Miocene clastic outliers as pertaining to two separate, NW‐directed transport systems delivering siliciclastic sediments from Arabia towards the deep Levant Basin. The detrital zircon U‐Pb‐Hf signal of the Israeli Miocene clastic units differs from that of the River Nile, particularly in the lack of Cenozoic‐Mesozoic‐aged zircons in the former. This allows us to distinguish the properties of the fluvial system that existed in Arabia, on the eastern side of the Red Sea, from that of the River Nile that drained its western flanks. While it is commonly accepted that the (proto‐)Nile River played a key role in the Levant Basin fill, the eastern fluvial system that prevailed on the Arabian side may have been also important.
Further delineation of the NTHL1 associated syndrome: A report from the French Oncogenetic Consortium
Authors: Boulouard Flavie , Kasper Edwige , Buisine Marie‐Pierre , Lienard Gwendoline , Vasseur Stéphanie , Manase Sandrine , Bahuau Michel , Barouk Simonet Emmanuelle , Bubien Virginie , Coulet Florence , Cusin Véronica , Dhooge Marion , Golmard Lisa , Goussot Vincent , Hamzaoui Nadim , Lacaze Elodie , Lejeune Sophie , Mauillon Jacques , Beaumont Marie‐Pascale , Pinson Stéphane , Tlemsani Camille , Toulas Christine , Rey Jean‐Marc , Uhrhammer Nancy , Bougeard Gaëlle , Frebourg Thierry , Houdayer Claude , Baert‐Desurmont Stéphanie
Published: January 2021

Biallelic pathogenic variants in the NTHL1 (Nth like DNA glycosylase 1) gene cause a recently identified autosomal recessive hereditary cancer syndrome predisposing to adenomatous polyposis and colorectal cancer. Half of biallelic carriers also display multiple colonic or extra‐colonic primary tumors, mainly breast, endometrium, urothelium, and brain tumors. Published data designate NTHL1 as an important contributor to hereditary cancers but also underline the scarcity of available informations. Thanks to the French oncogenetic consortium (Groupe Génétique et Cancer), we collected NTHL1 variants from 7765 patients attending for hereditary colorectal cancer or polyposis (n = 3936) or other hereditary cancers (n = 3829). Here, we describe 10 patients with pathogenic biallelic NTHL1 germline variants, that is, the second largest NTHL1 series. All carriers were from the “colorectal cancer or polyposis” series. All nine biallelic carriers who underwent colonoscopy presented adenomatous polyps. For digestive cancers, average age at diagnosis was 56.2 and we reported colorectal, duodenal, caecal, and pancreatic cancers. Extra‐digestive malignancies included sarcoma, basal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, urothelial carcinoma, and melanoma. Although tumor risks remain to be precisely defined, these novel data support NTHL1 inclusion in diagnostic panel testing. Colonic surveillance should be conducted based on MUTYH recommendations while extra‐colonic surveillance has to be defined.
Synergistic use of hyperspectral imagery, Sentinel‐1 and LiDAR improves mapping of soil physical and geochemical properties at the farm‐scale
Authors: Zhang Yakun , Hartemink Alfred E. , Huang Jingyi , Townsend Philip A.
Published: January 2021

Airborne imaging spectroscopy data provide soil and vegetation information over relatively large areas at high spatial resolutions (<5 m). We combined airborne hyperspectral data with space‐borne data (LiDAR DEM and Sentinel‐1) to map soil properties and investigate the contributions of the different sensor data to the mapping accuracy. The study was conducted on a 330‐ha farm in south‐central Wisconsin, USA, where soils are relatively young and soil variation is high. Seventy‐three soil samples (0–10 cm depth) were taken from cropped fields before planting. The soil data were used with remote sensing data for mapping clay, silt, sand, total carbon (TC), Mg, Al, Si, Fe, Ca, Ti, Mn and Zr. Three types of variables were compared: (a) DEM + Sentinel‐1 & 2, as these are easy‐to‐obtain, (b) hyperspectral data with high‐spatial resolution, and (c) hyperspectral data + DEM + Sentinel‐1, to evaluate if the prediction can be improved by combining hyperspectral data with DEM + Sentinel‐1, and if combining DEM + Sentinel‐1 with hyperspectral data had higher prediction accuracy than combination with Sentinel‐2 data. The partial least square regression (PLSR) model was used for establishing relationships between soil and remote sensing data. It was found that airborne hyperspectral imaging can accurately map the spatial distributions of soil clay content, Si and Fe concentrations. Combining hyperspectral data with DEM and Sentinel‐1 improved the performance of models for mapping a range of soil properties (e.g., clay, silt, sand, Al, Ti, Mn and Zr). Total C, Mg and Ca concentrations cannot be predicted from the combination of hyperspectral data, Sentinel‐1 and terrain attributes. In a highly heterogeneous landscape, surface soil properties can be accurately mapped combining LiDAR DEM, Sentinel‐1 and hyperspectral data.

Highlights

Airborne imaging spectroscopy, DEM and Sentinel‐1 were used to map surface soil properties.

Hyperspectral data can accurately map clay, Si and Fe.

Combining hyperspectral data with DEM, Sentinel‐1 improved prediction accuracy of several soil properties.

Total C, Mg and Ca cannot be predicted from hyperspectral data, DEM and Sentinel‐1.
Taking the bait: The influence of attractants and microhabitat on detections of fauna by remote‐sensing cameras
Authors: Rendall Anthony R. , White John G. , Cooke Raylene , Whisson Desley A. , Schneider Thomas , Beilharz Lisa , Poelsma Eleanor , Ryeland Julia , Weston Michael A.
Published: January 2021

Autonomously triggered cameras are a common wildlife survey technique. The use of attractants and surrounding microhabitats is likely to influence detection probabilities and survey outcomes; however, few studies consider these factors. We compared three attractants (peanut butter‐based, tuna‐based and a control) in a Latin square design through a coastal shrubland with high microhabitat variability at Cape Otway, Victoria, Australia (38º50ʹS, 143º30ʹE). Deployments involved 36 cameras for four days in each of five years. The percentage cover of each vegetation structural type (low [no or sparse cover], moderate [grass] or high [shrubs]) within 20 m of each camera was calculated and reduced to a single variable using PCA. Dynamic occupancy modelling, with lure type and vegetation structure as covariates of detection probability, found that peanut butter attracted the greatest diversity of species (24 of 35 species, 69%) and yielded the greatest number of detections (50% of 319) when compared with tuna oil (66% and 24%, respectively) and the control (43% and 26%, respectively). Peanut butter attracted more Macropodidae (wallabies) and Muridae (rats and mice); however, vegetation structural variables were the greatest influence on Corvidae/Artamidae (raven/currawong) detections with higher detectability in more open areas. Vegetation structure also influenced Muridae detections. This study reinforces the critical choice of appropriate attractants and camera placement when investigating vertebrate groups and highlights the role of microhabitat in the detection of small mammals and birds. We suggest future large‐scale camera surveys consider different bait types and microhabitats in their designs, to control for any biases and enable future advice on ‘optimal’ methods.
Stress fracture of the palmar, distal cortex of the third metacarpal bone: A diagnostic challenge with a good prognosis
Authors: Shan Ran , Johnston Anna S. , Rosanowski Sarah M. , O'Shea John , Riggs Christopher M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Transverse stress fracture of the palmar cortex of the distal aspect of the third metacarpal bone (TSF PCD McIII) is poorly documented.

Objectives

To describe the typical signalment of this injury, the common clinical and radiological signs and prognosis.

Study design

A retrospective hospital‐based case series with follow‐up of racing records.

Methods

All cases of TSF PCD McIII diagnosed among racehorses in training at the Hong Kong Jockey Club between 2011 and 2019 were identified. Clinical records were reviewed and documented signs were recorded for each case. Findings from a predefined list of radiological features were listed. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the age and training profile of horses, the clinical and radiological findings and time to return to ridden exercise.

Results

Twenty‐three cases (n = 23) were identified. The majority (57%) had recently started or returned to training from a break and 35% (n = 8) of cases had not yet undertaken timed gallops at the time of injury. Most cases (20/23; 87%) were lame; in nine (39%), lameness was severe. Localised swelling of superficial soft tissues was reported in 15/23 (65%) cases. Pain on palpation of the distal McIII was present in 15/23 (65%) cases and in response to fetlock flexion in 12/23 (52%).

Diffuse, localised increase in radiopacity, disruption to the outline of the bone periosteal surface and outward displacement of the button of the splint bone were common radiological features in early cases (70%, 67% and 67% of all cases). Sixty‐one per cent of cases (14/23) were initially misdiagnosed. Most horses (n = 18/23) resumed training and racing after a median of 83 and 246 days.

Main limitations

Clinical notes were not consistent between cases. Radiographs were taken at different times.

Conclusions

Horses commencing training are at risk of TSF PCD McIII, which presents with confusing clinical signs and subtle radiological findings. The long‐term outlook is favourable.
Increase in primary cilia in the epidermis of patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis
Authors: Rizaldy Defri , Toriyama Manami , Kato Hiroko , Fukui Runa , Fujita Fumitaka , Nakamura Motoki , Okada Fumihiro , Morita Akimichi , Ishii Ken J.
Published: January 2021

Primary cilia influence cell activity, and thus have a unique role in maintaining cell proliferation and differentiation. In atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis, areas of skin inflammation exhibit dysregulated keratinocyte homeostasis. The role of primary cilia in these conditions remains unclear. The objectives of this study is to elucidate the incidence of primary cilia in skin inflammation and the potential mechanism underlying the dysregulation of keratinocytes. Primary cilia were observed using immunofluorescence staining. Normal skin samples were compared with skin samples from patients with AD or psoriasis in terms of cilia numbers and length. The effect of cytokine stimulation on ciliogenesis in keratinocytes was analysed using a primary keratinocyte culture. IFT88, an important ciliary intraflagellar protein, was blocked in Th2 and Th17 cytokines‐stimulated keratinocytes. These effects were analysed with quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Significant increases in ciliated cells were observed in AD and psoriasis skin samples compared with normal skin samples. The stimulation of keratinocytes using Th2 and Th17 cytokines modulated the formation of primary cilia. The amount of IFT88 in the primary cilia associated with the phosphorylation of JNK, but not p38, in keratinocytes stimulated with interleukin‐13, 17A and 22. An increase of ciliated cells in the epidermis may impair keratinocyte differentiation under stress conditions caused by inflammation in both AD and psoriasis patients.
Melanoma brain metastases: Biological basis and novel therapeutic strategies
Authors: Phadke Manali , Ozgun Alpaslan , Eroglu Zeynep , Smalley Keiran S. M.
Published: January 2021

The development of brain metastases is the deadliest complication of advanced melanoma and has long been associated with a dismal prognosis. The recent years have seen incredible progress in the development of therapies for melanoma brain metastases (MBM), with both targeted therapies (the BRAF‐MEK inhibitor combination) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (the anti‐CTLA‐4, anti‐PD‐1 combination) showing impressive levels of activity. Despite this, durations of response for these therapies remain lower at intracranial sites of metastasis compared to extracranial metastases and it has been suggested that there are unique features of the brain microenvironment that contribute to therapeutic escape. In this review, we outline the latest research into the biology and pathophysiology of melanoma brain metastasis development and progression. We then discuss the current status of clinical trial that are open to patients with MBM and end by describing the ongoing challenges for the field.
Genetic drivers of non‐cutaneous melanomas: Challenges and opportunities in a heterogeneous landscape
Authors: Vergara Ismael A. , Wilmott James S. , Long Georgina V. , Scolyer Richard A.
Published: January 2021

Non‐cutaneous melanomas most frequently involve the uveal tract and mucosal membranes, including the conjunctiva. In contrast to cutaneous melanoma, they often present at an advanced clinical stage, are associated with worse clinical outcomes and show poorer responses to immunotherapy. The mutational load within most non‐cutaneous melanomas reflects their lower ultraviolet light (UV) exposure. The genetic drivers within non‐cutaneous melanomas are heterogeneous. Within ocular melanomas, posterior uveal tract melanomas typically harbour one of two distinct, sets of driver mutations and alterations of clinical and biological significance. In contrast to posterior uveal tract melanomas, anterior uveal tract melanomas of the iris and conjunctival melanomas frequently carry both a higher mutational burden and specific mutations linked with UV exposure. The genetic drivers in iris melanomas more closely resemble those of the posterior uveal tract, whereas conjunctival melanomas harbour similar genetic driver mutations to cutaneous melanomas. Mucosal melanomas occur in sun‐shielded sites including sinonasal and oral cavities, nasopharynx, oesophagus, genitalia, anus and rectum, and their mutational landscape is frequently associated with a dominant process of spontaneous deamination and infrequent presence of UV mutation signatures. Genetic drivers of mucosal melanomas are diverse and vary with anatomic location. Further understanding of the causes of already identified recurrent molecular events in non‐cutaneous melanomas, identification of additional drivers in specific subtypes, integrative multi‐omics analyses and analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment will expand knowledge in this field. Furthermore, such data will likely uncover new therapeutic strategies which will lead to improved clinical outcomes in non‐cutaneous melanoma patients.
Is the NDUFV2 subunit of the hydrophilic complex I domain a key determinant of animal longevity?
Authors: Pamplona Reinald , Jové Mariona , Mota‐Martorell Natalia , Barja Gustavo
Published: January 2021

Complex I, a component of the electron transport chain, plays a central functional role in cell bioenergetics and the biology of free radicals. The structural and functional N module of complex I is one of the main sites of the generation of free radicals. The NDUFV2 subunit/N1a cluster is a component of this module. Furthermore, the rate of free radical production is linked to animal longevity. In this review, we explore the hypothesis that NDUFV2 is the only conserved core subunit designed with a regulatory function to ensure correct electron transfer and free radical production, that low gene expression and protein abundance of the NDUFV2 subunit is an evolutionary adaptation needed to achieve a longevity phenotype, and that these features are determinants of the lower free radical generation at the mitochondrial level and a slower rate of aging of long‐lived animals.
Five‐year field trial of the biomass productivity and water input response of cactus pear (Opuntia spp.) as a bioenergy feedstock for arid lands
Authors: Neupane Dhurba , Mayer Jesse A. , Niechayev Nicholas A. , Bishop Carol D. , Cushman John C.
Published: January 2021

Climate‐resilient and highly water‐use efficient crops are needed to meet the future food, feed, fiber, and fuel demands of a growing human population. Cactus pear (Opuntia spp.) are highly productive yet have crop water demands that are approximately 20% that of traditional crops due to their ability to perform crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). In the first long‐term field trial of Opuntia for bioenergy in the United States, the aboveground biomass (cladode and fruit) productivity and response to different water inputs of O. cochenillifera, O. ficus‐indica, and O. streptacantha were evaluated at a planting density of 1418 plants ha−1 under three irrigation levels over a 5‐year period to investigate their response to different water inputs. Mean cladode fresh weight, cladode dry weight, cladode count, fruit fresh weight, and fruit dry weight increased linearly by 1.26‐, 1.88‐, 1.53‐, 1.89‐, and 2.13‐fold, respectively, with increasing irrigation from 300 to 716 mm year−1. Significant differences in irrigation response appeared in years 4 and 5 as the cactus trees grew larger. However, no significant differences were observed among the three Opuntia spp. for all parameters measured. Biomass productivity increased over 5 years by 140.8‐ and 132.5‐fold for cladode fresh and dry weight, respectively. Mean annual total aboveground biomass at 300, 407, and 716 mm year−1 water input resulted in 8.25, 11.16, and 15.52 Mg dry mass ha−1 year−1, respectively, at the sparse planting density used here to separate irrigation blocks, which could have been easily quadrupled. O. ficus‐indica performed better than O. cochenillifera and O. streptacantha in terms of cladode biomass and fruit count and quality. Biomass productivity was consistent with previous studies for Opuntia spp. demonstrating that cactus pear displays very high biomass and food/forage potential using substantially lower rates of supplemental irrigation than conventional crops grown in semi‐arid and arid regions.
Systematic literature review on the supply chain agility for manufacturer and consumer
Authors: Du Yuying , Hu Xia , Vakil Ka
Published: January 2021

For a company to survive in the long run, it is necessary to attract enough customers to generate profitability. Since the high uncertainty in organizations requires a more rapid response to customers’ needs, agility is a critical success factor for today’s manufacturing enterprise. To be competitive, enterprises must integrate their supply chains more effectively and forge close memberships with customers and suppliers more quickly. Therefore, the current study attempts to understand how supply chain agility has evolved. We have used a systematic literature review approach to examine the current state of the art and identify potential research gaps. It has indicated how companies can form and preserve competitive advantages in turbulent environments between manufacturers and consumers. From the outcomes, it can be observed that the developed supply chain agility has positive impacts on the sales of companies, velocity to market, profitability, market share and consumers’ satisfaction. Also, the investigations showed that the supply chain agility management needs persistent planning. Allotment of the resources to the agility aspects’ improvement might help companies increase the influence of such investments. Our investigation highlights the tactics for better readiness to attain supply chain agility that is the central part of electronic firms' competency in an emerging market.
Immediate response to apremilast in patients with palmoplantar pustulosis: a retrospective pilot study
Authors: Kato Noriko , Takama Hiroyuki , Ando Yoriko , Yanagishita Takeshi , Ohshima Yuichiro , Ohashi Wataru , Akiyama Masashi , Watanabe Daisuke
Published: January 2021

Background

Recent case reports have shown the efficacy of apremilast for the treatment of palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP). However, no study has statistically analyzed the clinical efficacy of oral apremilast in patients with PPP.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of apremilast, a phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, for PPP.

Materials and Methods

Among 13 patients who were diagnosed with PPP, 10 patients with PPP with either palmoplantar pustules (>1 mm diameter) or sternoclavicular joint pain were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Palmoplantar Pustulosis Area and Severity Index (mean ± SD: baseline, 13.4 ± 9.5 vs. after treatment, 5.1 ± 5.6; P = 0.013) and the number of pustules measuring > 1 mm in diameter (3.9 ± 3.9 vs. 1.3 ± 1.9; P = 0.029) significantly improved in 2 (±1) weeks. Moreover, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (9.7 ± 7.0 vs. 3.3 ± 3.6; P = 0.009) and palmoplantar itching (visual analog scale [VAS] score) (5.6 ± 3.5 vs. 2.1 ± 2.2; P = 0.026) significantly improved in 2 weeks, whereas VAS scores of palmoplantar pain (4.8 ± 4.4 vs. 1.1 ± 2.4; P = 0.081) and sternoclavicular joint pain (3.2 ± 3.8 vs. 2.0 ± 2.6; P = 0.194) did not significantly improve. Diarrhea was observed in 60.0% of our patients.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that apremilast can effectively treat cutaneous manifestations and arthralgia in Japanese patients with PPP who had apparent pustules and/or clavicular‐sternocostal arthralgia. Owing to the retrospective design of the study and a small sample size, placebo‐controlled clinical trials with a larger number of patients are warranted to confirm the efficacy of apremilast for treatment of PPP.
A retrospective, 5‐year, clinicoepidemiological study of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs)
Authors: Singh Gautam K , Mitra Barnali , Arora Sandeep , Akhoon Neha , Verma Rajesh , Sharma Puja , Mitra Debdeep
Published: January 2021

Background

A severe cutaneous adverse reaction (SCAR) is a rare, clinically heterogeneous, life‐threatening phenomenon that results in serious skin damage, systemic complications, and significant morbidity or mortality comprising of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), or SJS‐TEN overlap, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), exfoliative dermatitis, and drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS).

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was conducted on all cases of SCARs admitted in a tertiary care referral hospital from January 2015 to December 2019. Clinical and epidemiological details were retrieved from the records of patients as per predesigned proforma. The data collected were analyzed and statistically evaluated.

Results and analysis

A total of 142 patients (67 males, 75 females) with SCARs, constituting 0.08% of total hospital admission and 0.027% of total dermatology outpatient department (OPD), were studied. Age group ranged from 2 to 61 years, with the mean age of 33.6 years (SD = 17.43). Most patients belonged to SJS‐TEN complex (75 cases; SJS 48, SJS‐TEN 18, TEN nine) followed by exfoliative dermatitis (27 cases/19%), AGEP (26 cases/18.3%), and DRESS (14 cases/9.8%). Anticonvulsants were most commonly implicated (22%) followed by antibiotics (20%), nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (17%), and ayurvedic (7%). There was only single mortality in a DRESS patient.

Conclusion

SCAR has considerable disease burden with marginal female preponderance in SJS/TEN and exfoliative dermatitis and can involve even the pediatric population. Anticonvulsants followed by antibiotics, NSAIDs, and ayurvedic medicines are common groups known to cause SCARs. To date, there are no definitive recommendations regarding their optimal treatment regimen, hence early diagnosis, prompt withdrawal of culprit drug, high standard of nursing care, and interdisciplinary consultations are vital steps to avoid disease progression and restore health.
Revisiting the effects of spectral interfering substances in optical end‐point coagulation assays
Authors: Seheult Jansen N. , Dalenberg Daniel , Sridharan Meera R. , Stuart Melissa , Moericke Katherine , Cardel Laynalee , Heikal Nahla , Chen Dong , Pruthi Rajiv K.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Hemolysis, icterus, and lipemia (HIL) are common pre‐analytical variables in the clinical laboratory. Understanding their effects on coagulation laboratory results is essential.

Methods

HIL effects on the prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), dilute Russell's viper venom time (DRVVT), thrombin time (TT), and protein C chromogenic activity (CFx) were evaluated on the ACL TOP 750 optical analyzer and STA‐R Evolution mechanical analyzer (PT and APTT only) by spiking normal donor, patient, and commercial control samples with varying concentrations of hemolysate, bilirubin, or a lipid emulsion. The relative difference or bias compared to the original results was determined.

Results

Hemolysis (H) indices up to 900 mg/dL did not affect the APTT, PT, DRVVT Confirm, TT, and CFx; however, H indices above approximately 200 mg/dL resulted in a false‐negative DRVVT screen and screen/confirm ratio in samples with a lupus anticoagulant. There was an artifactual prolongation of the PT and APTT when conjugated bilirubin was dissolved in aqueous solvents and not when it was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide. Icterus (I) indices up to 45 mg/dL did not result in significant (>15%) bias for all assays evaluated. The PT and APTT assays failed to produce a robust clot curve when the lipemia (L) index exceeded 6000 milliabsorbance units (mAbs), and the TT and DRVVT assays failed when the L index exceeded 3000 mAbs; the CFx assay was unaffected by lipemia.

Conclusions

Verification of the manufacturer's recommended interference thresholds is important since it may avoid inappropriate instrument flagging and/ or sample rejection.
The relative expression levels of CD148 and CD180 on clonal B cells and CD148/CD180 median fluorescence intensity ratios are useful in the characterization of mature B cell lymphoid neoplasms infiltrating blood and bone marrow – Results from a single centre pilot study
Authors: Gautam Arambam , Sreedharanunni Sreejesh , Sachdeva Man Updesh Singh , Rana Sonia , Kashyap Dharambir , Bose Parveen , Bal Amanjeet , Prakash Gaurav , Malhotra Pankaj , Das Reena , Varma Neelam
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The categorization of mature B cell neoplasms (MBN) infiltrating blood and bone marrow are met with difficulties. The inclusion of CD148 and CD180 in the routine flow cytometry/FCM panels has been suggested to refine the diagnosis. We studied the discriminatory ability of CD148 and CD180 median fluorescence intensity(MFI), CD148/CD180 ratio and their expression relative to T cells (CD148ab/T, CD180ab/T), neutrophils (CD148ab/gr, CD180ab/gr) and normal B cells (CD148ab/n, CD180ab/n) in the differentiation of mature B cell neoplasms (MBN) especially non‐chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL).

Methodology

The flow cytometric (FCM) expression of CD148 and CD180 was studied prospectively in 102 patients (non‐CLL; n = 72); diagnosed by a comprehensive panel of immunophenotypic and cytogenetic studies. The MFI and ratios were statistically compared across MBNs by Mann‐Whitney U test. Cut‐off values, sensitivity and specificity were calculated for significant parameters by receiver operator characteristic curve.

Results

CD180MFI > 4.35 showed 100% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity for a diagnosis of marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) while, CD148/180 > 5.15 was 100% specific and 81.8% sensitive for lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. CD148ab/T(>4.3; 100% specificity, 83.4% sensitivity) and CD148ab/gr(>1.1; 100% sensitivity, 90% sensitivity) were useful for differentiating blastoid‐mantle cell lymphoma/MCL from diffuse large B cell lymphoma; while CD148MFI (≥20.25), CD148ab/T(>3.35) and CD148ab/gr(>0.95) showed >90% specificity and sensitivity for distinguishing MCL from CLL. Pairwise analysis also showed a good discriminant function of various parameters for distinguishing SMZL from other MBNs like FL, MCL as well as CLL.

Conclusions

The current study shows an excellent utility of CD148MFI, CD180MFI, their ratio and relative expression levels in the subcategorization of immunophenotypically related MBNs.
Gene annotation of nuclear receptor superfamily genes in the kissing bug Rhodnius prolixus and the effects of 20‐hydroxyecdysone on lipid metabolism
Authors: Nascimento P. V. P. , Almeida‐Oliveira F. , Macedo‐Silva A. , Ausina P. , Motinha C. , Sola‐Penna M. , Majerowicz D.
Published: January 2021

The hormone 20‐hydroxyecdysone is fundamental for regulating moulting and metamorphosis in immature insects, and it plays a role in physiological regulation in adult insects. This hormone acts by binding and activating a receptor, the ecdysone receptor, which is part of the nuclear receptor gene superfamily. Here, we analyse the genome of the kissing bug Rhodnius prolixus to annotate the nuclear receptor superfamily genes. The R. prolixus genome displays a possible duplication of the HNF4 gene. All the analysed insect organs express most nuclear receptor genes as shown by RT‐PCR. The quantitative PCR analysis showed that the RpEcR and RpUSP genes are highly expressed in the testis, while the RpHNF4‐1 and RpHNF4‐2 genes are more active in the fat body and ovaries and in the anterior midgut, respectively. Feeding does not induce detectable changes in the expression of these genes in the fat body. However, the expression of the RpHNF4‐2 gene is always higher than that of RpHNF4‐1. Treating adult females with 20‐hydroxyecdysone increased the amount of triacylglycerol stored in the fat bodies by increasing their lipogenic capacity. These results indicate that 20‐hydroxyecdysone acts on the lipid metabolism of adult insects, although the underlying mechanism is not clear.
From Independence to dependence: Experiences of Syrian refugees
Authors: Kikulwe Daniel , Massing Christine , Ghadi Needal , Giesbrecht Crystal J. , Halabuza Donalda
Published: January 2021

This paper focuses on the qualitative findings from a mixed‐methods study of the educational and employment experiences of male and female Syrian refugees who settled in Regina, Canada. Canada admitted over 40,000 Syrian refugees who settled in 350 communities across Canada, including many smaller, non‐traditional refugee‐receiving centres. This influx necessitated the expeditious development of additional services as well as a re‐allocation of local resources. Drachman's (Social Work, 37, 68, 1992) three‐phase migration framework was employed to trace the experiences of these Syrian refugees through the pre‐migration, transit and resettlement phases. The findings demonstrated that the participants perceived a shift from independence to dependence on the government as they moved through each of the successive phases of migration. While participants had constructed identities as “hard workers” back home, they found that their experiences and credentials from back home were devalued and learning English was a prerequisite for employment.
Thyrotrophin and thyroxine support immune homeostasis in humans
Authors: Jaeger Martin , Sloot Yvette J.E , Horst Rob Ter , Chu Xiaojing , Koenen Hans J.P.M. , Koeken Valerie A.C.M. , Moorlag Simone J.C.F.M. , de Bree Charlotte J. , Mourits Vera P. , Lemmers Heidi , Dijkstra Helga , Medici Marco , van Herwaarden Antonius E. , Joosten Irma , Joosten Leo A.B. , Li Yang , Smit Johannes W.A. , Netea Mihai G. , Netea‐Maier Romana T.
Published: January 2021

The endocrine and the immune systems interact by sharing receptors for hormones and cytokines, cross‐control and feedback mechanisms. To date, no comprehensive study has assessed the impact of thyroid hormones on immune homeostasis. By studying immune phenotype (cell populations, antibody concentrations, circulating cytokines, adipokines and acute‐phase proteins, monocyte–platelet interactions and cytokine production capacity) in two large independent cohorts of healthy volunteers of Western European descent from the Human Functional Genomics Project (500FG and 300BCG cohorts), we identified a crucial role of the thyroid hormone thyroxin (T4) and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) on the homeostasis of lymphocyte populations. TSH concentrations were strongly associated with multiple populations of both effector and regulatory T cells, whereas B‐cell populations were significantly associated with free T4 (fT4). In contrast, fT4 and TSH had little impact on myeloid cell populations and cytokine production capacity. Mendelian randomization further supported the role of fT4 for lymphocyte homeostasis. Subsequently, using a genomics approach, we identified genetic variants that influence both fT4 and TSH concentrations and immune responses, and gene set enrichment pathway analysis showed enrichment of fT4‐affected gene expression in B‐cell function pathways, including the CD40 pathway, further supporting the importance of fT4 in the regulation of B‐cell function. In conclusion, we show that thyroid function controls the homeostasis of the lymphoid cell compartment. These findings improve our understanding of the immune responses and open the door for exploring and understanding the role of thyroid hormones in the lymphocyte function during disease.
Patient‐reported Outcomes (PROs) in clinical trials in paediatric dentistry
Authors: Gilchrist Fiona , Marshman Zoe
Published: January 2021

Patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) are reports directly from patients without interpretation by clinicians or others and captured using validated patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs). These measures are increasingly employed in clinical practice and can be incorporated into clinical trials. Benefits of using PROs include reducing observer bias; eliciting unique views on aspects important to patients and increasing public accountability. Despite inclusion in clinical trials PRO data is often under‐reported and the results may not be adopted into clinical practice due to concerns about the data generated. This review discusses what PROs are and how to measure them; the benefits of using PROs; how to choose an appropriate PROM to answer the research question; considerations for using PROs in paediatric dentistry and reporting guidelines. Finally, some examples of how PROs have been included in paediatric dentistry trials are given along with discussion of the development of core outcome sets and how these may improve reporting of PROs in the future.
Optimization of red blood cell inventory: a blood‐type compatibility‐preference and emergency model
Authors: Dalalah Doraid , Alkhaledi Khaled A.
Published: January 2021

Transfusion of red blood cells (RBCs) is essential for different medical conditions such as surgery, anemia, and cancer. Blood is a precious living composition consisting of eight types of RBCs that can be transfused by either exact or compatible substitutes. As stored blood gets older, it begins to deteriorate; therefore, excessive blood supply at hospitals results in spoilage, while limited supply results in shortage. This research aims at finding the optimal order‐up‐to‐level quantities of blood, which minimize its shortage and outdated units. Stochastic demand, blood aging, emergency orders, and compatibility preference are considered in this study. A customized simulated annealing algorithm is built for optimization. Several simulation experiments are conducted to test the merits of the model in a selected hospital. Not only does the model demonstrate improved results in the mean inventory/age, shortage/spoilage, and substitution percentage but it also serves as a test bed for better understanding of RBC inventory behavior under different compatibility policies.