bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drivers of liking for reduced sodium potato chips and puffed rice
Authors: Buechler Aimee E. , Lee Soo‐Yeun
Published: December 2019

Reducing the amount of sodium in food products is necessary in decreasing the prevalence of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke. There is a lack of information on sodium reduction in potato chips and puffed rice, which comprise a large percentage of salty snack sales, and the use of flavor enhancers to maintain consumer acceptability of these products. The objective of this study was to identify drivers of liking for potato chip and puffed rice samples seasoned with differing sodium and flavor enhancer concentrations using sensory descriptive analysis and acceptance data. Eleven trained panelists evaluated the snacks and found eight significantly different attributes for potato chips and seven significantly different attributes for puffed rice. To better understand how these differences in samples play a role in sample liking, the descriptive analysis data were correlated with the data from a consumer test through preference mapping. For potato chips, consumers liked samples characterized by meaty aftertaste, aroma, aroma‐by‐mouth, and umami aftertaste. Consumers disliked samples with a strong raw potato aroma. For puffed rice, consumers liked samples with attributes of crunchy texture, garlic aftertaste, and savory aftertaste and disliked bitter aftertaste and chili powder aroma‐by‐mouth. These findings imply acceptance of sodium‐reduced potato chips and puffed rice is possible by focusing on these identified drivers of liking.

Practical Application

Our findings suggest the addition of flavor enhancers maintains or improves the palatability of reduced sodium products with eight attributes influencing liking of potato chips and seven attributes influencing liking of puffed rice. Understanding the sensory attributes that impact the acceptance of reduced sodium products will allow for these attributes to be the focus during product development, which may result in increased sales of reduced sodium snacks, thus decreasing sodium consumption from snack products.
Modeling community occupancy from line transect data: a case study with large mammals in post‐war Angola
Authors: Petracca L. S. , Funston P. J. , Henschel P. , Cohen J. B. , Maclennan S. , Frair J. L.
Published: December 2019

Human disturbance can have a profound effect on the occurrence and distribution of wildlife. Such disturbance often extends into protected areas (PAs), particularly in countries that have undergone civil strife and lack the institutional capacity to effectively mitigate anthropogenic threats. We demonstrate the first application of a multi‐species hierarchical occupancy model to spatially correlated detections from vehicle‐based spoor transects, estimating species richness and species‐specific drivers of occurrence of a large mammal community comprising five large carnivores [cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), leopard (Panthera pardus), lion (Panthera leo), spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), and wild dog (Lycaon pictus)] and six large herbivores [buffalo (Syncerus caffer), eland (Taurotragus oryx), elephant (Loxodonta africana), giraffe (Giraffa giraffa), roan (Hippotragus equinus), and sable (Hippotragus niger)] in Luengue‐Luiana and Mavinga National Parks, Angola. This area is the largest contiguous national park complex within a single African country and part of the largest transfrontier conservation area in the world, and is still recovering from the effects of civil war. In this post‐war landscape, the most substantive drivers of community‐level occupancy were anthropogenic, with occupancy associated with lower frequency of human sign, proximity to adjacent national park, and distance away from human settlement. In contrast, ecological variables (precipitation, vegetation cover, seasonal water availability) had less explanatory value. Our results highlight the deleterious effects of human incursion into PAs on the richness and distribution of large mammal species, underscoring the need for intensive mitigation of anthropogenic threats (e.g. poaching, bushmeat hunting) to maintain species of high conservation value in areas impacted by war.
The Ghosts of Mining Past: A Settler Colonial Story
Authors: Stern Pamela
Published: December 2019

Ethnographic reports of ghosts, spirits, and other nonhuman agents are portrayed as very different entities depending upon whether the people perceiving them are recognized as indigenous or nonindigenous. The nonhuman agents apprehended by indigenous peoples are nearly always described as ontological, while ethnographers tend to treat ghosts and other spirits among nonindigenous peoples as a form of protest. Using ethnographic data from the former silver mining settler community of Cobalt, Ontario Canada, I challenge this dichotomization. Instead, I argue ghostly encounters may arise from the social practices of emplacement, which may be indigenous or nonindigenous. In Cobalt, heritage work and nostalgia for an earlier time causes some residents to envision ghosts or spirits of long ended mining.
Successful minimally invasive two‐stage operation for rare synchronous cancers of the esophagus and the pancreatic head: A case report
Authors: Ozawa Hiroki , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Kitago Minoru , Mayanagi Shuhei , Fukuda Kazumasa , Nakamura Rieko , Suda Koichi , Wada Norihito , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: December 2019

We report the case of a 70‐year‐old woman with synchronous advanced esophageal cancer and pancreatic head cancer. To reduce the surgical invasiveness, we performed a two‐stage operation that included percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and minimally invasive esophagectomy. In the first stage, we performed a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, a thoracoscopic esophagectomy with cervical and mediastinal lymph node dissection, and an esophagostomy without a laparotomy. The second stage, which was performed 28 days after the first operation, consisted of a total gastrectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, colonic reconstruction, and jejunostomy. Fifty days after the second operation, the patient was discharged from the hospital. A two‐stage operation that includes minimally invasive esophagectomy seems to be useful for avoiding serious postoperative complications, even in patients with rare, synchronous advanced cancers of the esophagus and the pancreatic head.
The effect of perazine on the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 phenotypes as measured by the dextromethorphan and mephenytoin tests in psychiatric patients
Authors: Baumann Pierre , Eap Chin B. , Gastpar Markus
Published: December 2019

There is evidence that the antipsychotic drug perazine is an inhibitor of CYP2D6. This study aimed at evaluating its effect on CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 activities in submitting psychiatric patients to phenotyping with dextromethorphan and mephenytoin, respectively, substrates of these enzymes, before and during a treatment with perazine. A total of 31 patients were phenotyped with dextromethorphan (CYP2D6) and mephenytoin (CYP2C19) before and after a 2‐week treatment with 450 ± 51 mg/day (mean ± sd) perazine. At baseline, five patients appeared to be poor metabolizers (PM) of dextromethorphan and two patients of mephenytoin. The metabolic ratio (MR) of dextromethorphan/dextrorphan as determined in collected urine increased significantly (Wilcoxon; P < .0001) from baseline (0.39 ± 1.38 [mean ± sd]) till day 14 (1.46 ± 2.22). In 19 out of 26 extensive metabolizers (EM) of dextromethorphan, the phenotype changed from EM to PM. This suggests an almost complete inhibition of CYP2D6 by perazine and/or its metabolites. On the other hand, perazine (or some of its metabolites) did seemingly not inhibit CYP2C19. In conclusion, this study suggests that in patients treated with perazine and co‐medicated with CYP2D6 substrates, there could be an increased risk of adverse effects as a consequence of a pharmacokinetic interaction.
Reciprocal Relations Between Maternal Depression and Child Behavior Problems in Families Served by Head Start
Authors: Baker Claire E. , Brooks‐Gunn Jeanne , Gouskova Natalia
Published: December 2019

This study used longitudinal cross‐lagged modeling to examine reciprocal relations between maternal depression and child behavior problems. Data were drawn from 3,119 children (40% Hispanic, 30% African American, 20% White, and 10% other) from the Family and Child Experiences Survey of 2009 (a nationally representative sample of children served by Head Start). Results documented reciprocal relations between maternal depression and child behavior problems across early childhood (i.e., child age 3–5). Furthermore, the effect of child behavior problems on maternal depression was moderated by child race/ethnicity during children’s first year in Head Start, such that the negative effect of child behavior problems on African American mothers’ depression was more pronounced compared to Hispanics and other racial/ethnic groups.
Initiation of injectable opioid agonist treatment in hospital: A case report
Authors: McAdam Matthew , Brar Rupinder , Young Samantha
Published: December 2019

Uncontrolled opioid withdrawal and pain often drive inpatients with opioid use disorder to leave hospital against medical advice, resulting in suboptimal medical and addiction treatment. When oral opioid agonist treatments such as methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone fail for management of craving and withdrawal, injectable opioid agonist treatment may serve to retain patients in care and link them to addiction services. We describe the case of a 47‐year‐old man with a severe, active opioid use disorder and daily use of illicitly manufactured fentanyl, who was re‐admitted to hospital for post‐operative management after leaving against medical advice due to uncontrolled opioid withdrawal. Intravenous hydromorphone was used to retain him in care, allowing for completion of his antibiotics and enrolment in ongoing community injectable opioid agonist treatment.
The Smart Servicescape Framework in Smart Home Healthcare Service Experience
Authors: Kang Hyo‐Jin , Kim Bora , Kwon Gyu Hyun
Published: December 2019

The dramatic advancement of Internet of Things technology and smart services has encouraged the integration of smart home and healthcare service. Despite various research studies on the technology of smart home healthcare services, it is essential to approach those services from the service experience perspective. Moreover, it would be significant to consider the context and environment of smart services, namely, “smart servicescapes,” as they can influence users’ perceptions and experiences. With this background, the aim of this study was to examine the smart servicescape framework that was developed based on the smart home services in the prior study from the domain of smart home healthcare services and to ameliorate the framework to better reflect the characteristics of smart services.

During the qualitative analysis of 21 user‐scenario movie clips on smart home healthcare services, the smart servicescape elements were recategorized and relabeled, and the structure of smart servicescape framework was modified. The values of the improved smart servicescape framework can be identified in two aspects. First, the framework can demonstrate the characteristics of smart services, namely, the omnipresence of Datascape and Connection infra and the mediating role of artificial intelligence. Second, this framework can be used to establish design requirements about service elements, relationships, and interactions when the smart service experiences, including smart home healthcare, are designed.
A Design Approach to Teaching an Entrepreneurial Mindset
Authors: Mukhambetova Aigerim , Camnert Åsa Maria , Williams Ariane
Published: December 2019

The following research explores methods to develop an entrepreneurial culture with a growth mindset among adolescents, within the age bracket of 9 to 11 years old. In doing so, the proposal argues for the cultivation of an alternative learning experience that would not only challenge the rigorous hold of traditional academia over student imagination, but also acknowledge the impact of climate change, a surge in population growth, and high levels of automation, which, if left unaddressed, may jeopardize human ability to preserve capital and create long‐term sustained growth.
Cytomegalovirus reactivation after bortezomib treatment for multiple myeloma and light chain amyloidosis
Authors: Sharpley Faye A , De‐Silva Dunnya , Mahmood Shameem , Sachchithanantham Sajitha , Ramsay Isobel , Garcia Mingo Ana , Worthington Sarah , Hughes Derralynn , Mehta Atul , Kyriakou Charalampian , Griffiths Paul D. , Wechalekar Ashutosh D.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an opportunistic herpesvirus, and reactivation of infection is possible in immunocompromised patients. Historically, the risk for haematology patients is restricted to those treated with an allogeneic transplant or T‐cell depleting agents. Bortezomib is a highly efficacious proteasome inhibitor widely used to treat multiple myeloma and light chain (AL) amyloidosis patients. The objective of this small prospective study was to quantify the risk of CMV reactivation associated with bortezomib treatment.

Methods

Fifty‐seven consecutive multiple myeloma or AL amyloidosis patients commencing bortezomib‐based therapy were included. Viral copy numbers were established at baseline and then at fortnightly intervals during treatment. Pre‐emptive anti‐viral treatment was initiated in patients with a viral load >7500 copies/mL.

Results

Reactivation of CMV was detected in 39% (n = 12/31) of seropositive bortezomib treated patients compared with 0% of CMV seronegative patients. Detectable DNAemia developed during the first two cycles of treatment in 83% (n = 10/12) patients. Anti‐viral treatment was initiated in 42% (n = 5/12), but no cases of active CMV disease were seen.

Conclusion

This study suggests that there is a substantial risk of CMV reactivation in CMV‐seropositive plasma cell dyscrasia patients treated with bortezomib.
Digital Module 10: Rasch Measurement Theory https://ncme.elevate.commpartners.com
Authors: Wang Jue , Engelhard George
Published: December 2019

In this digital ITEMS module, Dr. Jue Wang and Dr. George Engelhard Jr. describe the Rasch measurement framework for the construction and evaluation of new measures and scales. From a theoretical perspective, they discuss the historical and philosophical perspectives on measurement with a focus on Rasch's concept of specific objectivity and invariant measurement. Specifically, they introduce the origins of Rasch measurement theory, the development of model‐data fit indices, as well as commonly used Rasch measurement models. From an applied perspective, they discuss best practices in constructing, estimating, evaluating, and interpreting a Rasch scale using empirical examples. They provide an overview of a specialized Rasch software program (Winsteps) and an R program embedded within Shiny (Shiny_ERMA) for conducting the Rasch model analyses. The module is designed to be relevant for students, researchers, and data scientists in various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, education, business, health, and other social sciences. It contains audio‐narrated slides, sample data, syntax files, access to Shiny_ERMA program, diagnostic quiz questions, data‐based activities, curated resources, and a glossary.
Atrophy of optic nerve detected by transorbital sonography in patients with demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system
Authors: Schroeder C. , Katsanos A. H. , Ayzenberg I. , Schwake C. , Gahlen A. , Tsivgoulis G. , Voumvourakis K. , Gold R. , Krogias C.
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose

Transorbital sonography (TOS) has emerged as promising imaging method for the diagnosis and follow‐up of acute optic neuritis (ON). Available studies report an increase in the optic nerve diameter (OND) and the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) in the case of a first episode of ON in the affected eye compared to either the contralateral unaffected eye or controls. However, the utility of TOS in the case of recurrent episodes of ON has never been assessed.

Methods

In our prospective cohort study, the diagnostic utility of TOS in patients with demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system was assessed, and the association between TOS, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual evoked potentials was examined further.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients with a history of demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system (mean age 38.2 ± 14.2 years; 24% with acute ON) were included. No differences in the OND (3.2 ± 0.5 mm vs. 3.2 ± 0.4 mm) and ONSD (5.1 ± 0.8 mm vs. 5.1 ± 0.7 mm) measurements were found between patients with and without acute ON. Papillary swelling was more frequent in patients with acute ON (14.2% vs. 1.5%, P = 0.002). Patients with a history of previous ON were found to have lower OND (P < 0.001) and ONSD (P = 0.007) compared to patients without a history of previous ON. TOS measurements were inversely associated with disease duration and positively correlated with OCT findings. No association with visual evoked potential measurements was found.

Conclusion

No evidence was found for TOS‐sensitive differences in the OND and ONSD of patients with demyelinating diseases, according to the presence of acute ON. The association between TOS and OCT measurements deserves further investigation.
An efficient neurodynamic model to solve nonconvex nonlinear optimization problems and its applications
Authors: Moghaddas Mohammad , Tohidi Ghasem
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a recurrent neural network for solving nonconvex nonlinear optimization problems subject to nonlinear inequality constraints. First, the p‐power transformation is exploited for local convexification of the Lagrangian function in nonconvex nonlinear optimization problem. Next, the proposed neural network is constructed based on the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) optimality conditions and the projection function. An important property of this neural network is that its equilibrium point corresponds to the optimal solution of the original problem. By utilizing an appropriate Lyapunov function, it is shown that the proposed neural network is stable in the sense of Lyapunov and convergent to the global optimal solution of the original problem. Also, the sensitivity of the convergence is analysed by changing the scaling factors. Compared with other existing neural networks for such problem, the proposed neural network has more advantages such as high accuracy of the obtained solutions, fast convergence, and low complexity. Finally, simulation results are provided to show the benefits of the proposed model, which compare to or outperform existing models.
High intracellular stability of the spidroin N‐terminal domain in spite of abundant amyloidogenic segments revealed by in‐cell hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry
Authors: Kaldmäe Margit , Leppert Axel , Chen Gefei , Sarr Medoune , Sahin Cagla , Nordling Kerstin , Kronqvist Nina , Gonzalvo‐Ulla Marta , Fritz Nicolas , Abelein Axel , Laίn Sonia , Biverstål Henrik , Jörnvall Hans , Lane David P. , Rising Anna , Johansson Jan , Landreh Michael
Published: December 2019

Proteins require an optimal balance of conformational flexibility and stability in their native environment to ensure their biological functions. A striking example is spidroins, spider silk proteins, which are stored at extremely high concentrations in soluble form, yet undergo amyloid‐like aggregation during spinning. Here, we elucidate the stability of the highly soluble N‐terminal domain (NT) of major ampullate spidroin 1 in the Escherichia coli cytosol as well as in inclusion bodies containing fibrillar aggregates. Surprisingly, we find that NT, despite being largely composed of amyloidogenic sequences, showed no signs of concentration‐dependent aggregation. Using a novel intracellular hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX‐MS) approach, we reveal that NT adopts a tight fold in the E. coli cytosol and in this manner conceals its aggregation‐prone regions by maintaining a tight fold under crowded conditions. Fusion of NT to the unstructured amyloid‐forming Aβ40 peptide, on the other hand, results in the formation of fibrillar aggregates. However, HDX‐MS indicates that the NT domain is only partially incorporated into these aggregates in vivo. We conclude that NT is able to control its aggregation to remain functional under the extreme conditions in the spider silk gland.
Capturing hedge fund risk factor exposures: Hedge fund return replication with ETFs
Authors: Duanmu Jun , Li Yongjia , Malakhov Alexey
Published: December 2019

We develop a new factor selection methodology of spanning the space of hedge fund risk factors with all available exchange traded funds (ETFs). We demonstrate the efficacy of the methodology with out‐of‐sample individual hedge fund return replication by ETF clone portfolios. This is consistent with our interpretation of ETF returns as proxies to risk factors driving hedge fund returns. We further consider portfolios of “cloneable” and “noncloneable” hedge funds, defined as top and bottom in‐sampleR2matches, and demonstrate that our ETF clone portfolios slightly outperform cloneable hedge funds out of sample.
A two‐year comparison on nutritive value and yield of eight lucerne cultivars and one red clover cultivar
Authors: Sousa Dannylo O. , Hansen Hanne H. , Hallin Ola , Nussio Luiz G. , Nadeau Elisabet
Published: December 2019

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) and lucerne (Medicago sativa) are among the most common legume species used for ruminant feeding systems. Besides the greater nutritive quality and first‐year ley yield compared to lucerne, red clover decreases its yield over the years. However, under unfavourable soil conditions the persistency of lucerne can be compromised, not performing as expected. This study compared yield and chemical composition of eight lucerne cultivars and one tetraploid red clover cultivar, with similar growth capacity as lucerne, replicated over two years. In the second year, four lucerne cultivars and the red clover cultivar were analysed for crude protein (CP) fractions, dry matter and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) digestibility. A randomized block design was used with three field blocks per cultivar for the multiple comparisons within each year. There were differences in DM yield, concentrations of CP and NDF and CP fractions among the lucerne cultivars, but the differences were inconsistent between years and between growth cycles within year. The red clover cultivar had lower CP and NDF concentrations than a majority of the lucerne cultivars, and greater in vitro organic matter digestibility compared to all of the lucerne cultivars. Also, the red clover cultivar had greater rumen undegradable‐to‐degradable CP ratio but confirmed its lower yield persistency compared to the lucerne cultivars.
An unrevealed treasure: a new Italian meteorite from the Royal Mineralogical Museum of Naples
Authors: Cecchi Vanni Moggi , Rossi Manuela , Ghiara Maria Rosaria , Pratesi Giovanni , Franza Annarita
Published: December 2019

Naturalistic and geo‐mineralogical museum collections are one of the most relevant sources for research on meteorites the world over. Here, we present the description of a new Italian meteorite that has been recently discovered at the Royal Mineralogical Museum of Naples in Italy.
Positive and negative pressure irrigation in oval root canals with apical ramifications: a computational fluid dynamics evaluation in micro‐CT scanned real teeth
Authors: Loroño G. , Zaldivar J. R. , Arias A. , Cisneros R. , Dorado S. , Jimenez‐Octavio J. R.
Published: December 2019

Aim

To compare using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) the flow pattern, irrigant velocity, apical pressure and shear stress produced by negative (MiC) and positive pressure with different types of needles (side‐vented (SV), front‐vented (FV) and notched (N)) at two insertion depths in the apical ramification of oval root canals.

Methodology

The micro‐CT of a mandibular molar with an oval root canal with an apical ramification was used for computational analysis after preparation and geometric reconstruction. Geometries with the needles in two positions (1 and 3 mm from WL) were created to run the simulations. Key parameters of irrigation were displayed with CFD and compared.

Results

The penetration depth of the needle in the root canal strongly influenced shear stress and apical pressure. The three needles revealed that the highest shear stress, velocity and apical pressure were 1 mm from the WL and generated medium velocities. In N simulations, the fluid flow did not reach the apical ramification and the lowest shear stress values for positive pressure needles were found. The predominant axial component for FV revealed a different pattern of irrigation with high shear stress values and higher apical pressures than those exerted by other needles. SV simulations had generalized fluid flow in most of the main canal, the highest shear stress values and lower apical pressure than the threshold determined for risk of extrusion. MiC was associated with low velocity, shear stress and apical pressure.

Conclusion

The SV needle demonstrated a combination of low positive pressure and high shear stress; while N had the lowest shear stress and FV the highest apical pressure. MiC generated fluid flow in part of the apical ramification with negative apical pressure values but low shear stress and velocity.
Highly precise risk prediction model for new‐onset hypertension using artificial intelligence techniques
Authors: Kanegae Hiroshi , Suzuki Kenji , Fukatani Kyohei , Ito Tetsuya , Harada Nakahiro , Kario Kazuomi
Published: December 2019

Hypertension is a significant public health issue. The ability to predict the risk of developing hypertension could contribute to disease prevention strategies. This study used machine learning techniques to develop and validate a new risk prediction model for new‐onset hypertension. In Japan, Industrial Safety and Health Law requires employers to provide annual health checkups to their employees. We used 2005‐2016 health checkup data from 18 258 individuals, at the time of hypertension diagnosis [Year (0)] and in the two previous annual visits [Year (−1) and Year (−2)]. Data were entered into models based on machine learning methods (XGBoost and ensemble) or traditional statistical methods (logistic regression). Data were randomly split into a derivation set (75%, n = 13 694) used for model construction and development, and a validation set (25%, n = 4564) used to test performance of the derived models. The best predictor in the XGBoost model was systolic blood pressure during cardio‐ankle vascular index measurement at Year (−1). Area under the receiver operator characteristic curve values in the validation cohort were 0.877, 0.881, and 0.859 for the XGBoost, ensemble, and logistic regression models, respectively. We have developed a highly precise prediction model for future hypertension using machine learning methods in a general normotensive population. This could be used to identify at‐risk individuals and facilitate earlier non‐pharmacological intervention to prevent the future development of hypertension.
Effect of c‐Ski on atrial remodelling in a rapid atrial pacing canine model
Authors: Wang Juan , Han Min , Han Su‐xia , Zhi Cuiju , Gao Suli , Li Yao
Published: December 2019

Atrial fibrosis is an important factor in the initiation and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF); therefore, understanding the pathogenesis of atrial fibrosis may reveal promising therapeutic targets for AF. In this study, we successfully established a rapid atrial pacing canine model and found that the inducibility and duration of AF were significantly reduced by the overexpression of c‐Ski, suggesting that this approach may have therapeutic effects. c‐Ski was found to be down‐regulated in the atrial tissues of the rapid atrial pacing canine model. We artificially up‐regulated c‐Ski expression with a c‐Ski–overexpressing adenovirus. Haematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome and picrosirius red staining showed that c‐Ski overexpression alleviated atrial fibrosis. Furthermore, we found that the expression levels of collagen III and α‐SMA were higher in the groups of dogs subjected to right‐atrial pacing, and this increase was attenuated by c‐Ski overexpression. In addition, c‐Ski overexpression decreased the phosphorylation of smad2, smad3 and p38 MAPK (p38α and p38β) as well as the expression of TGF‐β1 in atrial tissues, as shown by a comparison of the right‐atrial pacing + c‐Ski‐overexpression group to the control group with right‐atrial pacing only. These results suggest that c‐Ski overexpression improves atrial remodelling in a rapid atrial pacing canine model by suppressing TGF‐β1–Smad signalling and p38 MAPK activation.
Colposcopic scoring indexes in the evaluation of cervical lesions with the cytological result of atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high‐grade lesion
Authors: Kudela Erik , Laucekova Zuzana , Nachajova Marcela , Visnovsky Jozef , Bielik Tibor , Krivus Stefan , Biringer Kamil , Balharek Tomas , Zubor Pavol
Published: December 2019

Aim

Colposcopic indexes including Reid index and Swede score were developed to make the colposcopy more objective. The aim of our study was to evaluate the significance of colposcopic indexes in the evaluation of ASC‐H cervical lesions.

Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional study in the Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology between January 2013 and December 2018. The study included 535 women, from which 66 women had a cytological result ASC‐H. Scoring of all colposcopic findings was assessed according to Reid modified index and Swede score and a composite score was determined. Frequency distributions were compared using χ2/Fisher exact test. Spearman rank correlation coefficient was computed between RCI and Swede score.

Results

Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and positive likelihood ratio of modified Reid colposcopic index at a cutoff of ≥4 for the detection of HSIL+ lesions were: 86.11% (95% CI: 70.5–95.3), 83.33% (95% CI: 65.3–94.4), 86.11% (95% CI: 69.7–94.8), 83.33% (95% CI: 64.5–93.7) and 5.17 (95% CI: 2.3–11.6). Swede score with the cutoff value ≥5 showed comparable results to modified Reid index with the increased sensitivity: 94.44% (95% CI: 81.3–99.3).

Conclusion

ASC‐H category represents the trickiest cytological diagnosis as it is underlined with the high risk of severe cervical dysplasia. Evaluating the cervical lesion by the use of colposcopic indices helps the gynecologist to objectively evaluate all the pathologies of uterine cervix. Swede score with the cutoff value 8 also enables a ‘see and treat’ option in management of atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high‐grade lesions.
Combination methotrexate and gefitinib: A potential medical treatment for inoperable nontubal ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Italiano Stella , Tong Stephen , Readman Emma , Tassone Meredith , Hastie Roxanne , Pritchard Natasha
Published: December 2019

Nontubal ectopic pregnancies present as a therapeutic challenge. A 35‐year‐old primigravida at 7 weeks gestation had a live interstitial ectopic pregnancy and contraindications to surgery. The patient was treated with a multidose methotrexate regimen combined with oral gefitinib (250 mg daily for 7 days). The peak human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) of the patient was recorded at 19 510 IU/L and began declining from day 4 of combination therapy (day 6 of initial treatment). Successful resolution of the ectopic was demonstrated by cessation of the fetal heart by day 15 and hCG falling to 23 IU/L by day 42. A 10‐year review of all nontubal ectopic pregnancies treated with methotrexate identified 46 cases, which had a comparable time to resolution to combination therapy. However, for cases where cardiac activity was present, the median time to resolution following methotrexate treatment was 64 days (47–87 days), 22 days longer than combination therapy. Combination therapy may provide a safe medical treatment for inoperable nontubal ectopic pregnancy.
Adolescents' Weight Management Goals: Healthy and Unhealthy Associations with Eating Habits and Physical Activity
Authors: Durocher Elyse , Gauvin Lise
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

This study aims to quantify associations between one's weight management goal and eating behaviors and physical activity among teenagers.

METHODS

Weighted logistic regressions were performed predicting healthy behaviors from weight goal separately for boys and girls while controlling for age, body mass index, socioeconomic indicators, school type, and region using data from the 2010 to 2011 Enquête québécoise sur la santé des jeunes du secondaire, a survey of a representative sample of Quebec adolescents (N = 32,040).

RESULTS

About 18%, 31%, 19%, and 34% of boys and 32%, 34%, 5%, and 25% of girls were respectively trying to lose weight, maintain their weight, gain weight, and not trying to do anything about their weight. Trying to lose weight was associated with lower likelihood of eating breakfast daily (boys: odds ratio [OR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.61, 0.84 girls: OR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.54, 0.70). Among girls, trying to lose weight was also associated with higher likelihood of consuming at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables (OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.37), lower likelihood of drinking sugar‐sweetened beverages daily (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.66, 0.90). Each weight‐related goal was associated with unhealthy behaviors but most of them were also associated with adoption of healthier ones.

CONCLUSION

Having a weight related goal cannot inherently be thought of as health promoting goal.
Content and Quality of Motor Initiatives in the Support of People With Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities
Authors: van Alphen Helena J. M. , Waninge Aly , Minnaert Alexander E. M. G. , van der Putten Annette A. J.
Published: December 2019

Motor activation is rarely integrated into the support of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD), which might be the result of the limited evidence‐based knowledge in this field. Practitioners have recently been developing several motor initiatives for people with PIMD, but it remains unclear about what core elements the motor initiatives actually consist of and to what level of quality it is implemented in practice. This study aims to offer an overview and analysis of the content and quality of motor initiatives actually in use for people with PIMD. Motor initiatives were explored by asking practitioners to complete an online inventory form. Documents, expert knowledge, and observations were used to collect data about the characteristics of the motor initiatives. The quality of the motor initiatives which met our eligibility criteria, was analyzed on the basis of the level of evidence for their effectiveness. The inventory yielded 118 motor initiatives of which 17 met the eligibility criteria. We identified four motor initiatives reflecting an approach to motorically activate people with PIMD within various activities, three including power‐assisted exercises, three with aquatic exercises, two frameworks which integrated motor activities into their daily programs, two methods which included small‐scale activities, two rhythmic movement therapies, and one program including gross motor activities. We found limited indications for descriptive evidence from 17 initiatives, limited or no indications for theoretical evidence from 12 and five initiatives respectively, and none of the initiatives provided a causal level of evidence for effectiveness. A wide variety of motor initiatives is used in current practice to activate persons with PIMD, although their effectiveness is actually unproven. Science and practice should cooperate to develop an evidence‐based understanding to ensure more evidence‐based support for the motor activation of people with PIMD in the future.
Characterization of gastrointestinal pathologies in the dystonia musculorum mouse model for hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type VI
Authors: Lynch‐Godrei Anisha , De Repentigny Yves , Yaworski Rebecca A. , Gagnon Sabrina , Butcher James , Manoogian Juliana , Stintzi Alain , Kothary Rashmi
Published: December 2019

Background

Dystonia musculorum (Dstdt) is a murine disease caused by recessive mutations in the dystonin (Dst) gene. Loss of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons, ataxia, and dystonic postures before death by postnatal day 18 (P18) is a hallmark feature. Recently we observed gas accumulation and discoloration in the small intestine and cecum in Dstdt mice by P15. The human disease resulting from dystonin loss‐of‐function, known as hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type VI (HSAN‐VI), has also been associated with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms including chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. As neuronal dystonin isoforms are expressed in the GI tract, we hypothesized that dystonin loss‐of‐function in Dstdt‐27J enteric nervous system (ENS) neurons resulted in neurodegeneration associated with the GI abnormalities.

Methods

We characterized the nature of the GI abnormalities observed in Dstdt mice through histological analysis of the gut, assessing the ENS for signs of neurodegeneration, evaluation of GI motility and absorption, and by profiling the microbiome.

Key results

Though gut histology, ENS viability, and GI absorption were normal, slowed GI motility, thinning of the colon mucous layer, and reduced microbial richness/evenness were apparent in Dstdt‐27J mice by P15. Parasympathetic GI input showed signs of neurodegeneration, while sympathetic did not.

Conclusions & Inferences

Dstdt‐27J GI defects are not linked to ENS neurodegeneration, but are likely a result of an imbalance in autonomic control over the gut. Further characterization of HSAN‐VI patient GI symptoms is necessary to determine potential treatments targeting symptom relief.
Chinese wheat mosaic virus‐derived vsiRNA‐20 can regulate virus infection in wheat through inhibition of vacuolar‐ (H+)‐PPase induced cell death
Authors: Yang Jian , Zhang Tianye , Li Juan , Wu Ne , Wu Guanwei , Yang Jin , Chen Xuan , He Long , Chen Jianping
Published: December 2019

Vacuolar (H+)‐PPases (VPs), are key regulators of active proton (H+) transport across membranes using the energy generated from PPi hydrolysis. The VPs also play vital roles in plant responses to various abiotic stresses. Their functions in plant responses to pathogen infections are unknown.

Here, we show that TaVP, a VP of wheat (Triticum aestivum) is important for wheat resistance to Chinese wheat mosaic virus (CWMV) infection. Furthermore, overexpression of TaVP in plants induces the activity of PPi hydrolysis, leading to plants cell death.

A virus‐derived small interfering RNA (vsiRNA‐20) generated from CWMV RNA1 can regulate the mRNA accumulation of TaVP in wheat. The accumulation of vsiRNA‐20 can suppress cell death induced by TaVP in a dosage‐dependent manner. Moreover, we show that the accumulation of vsiRNA‐20 can affect PPi hydrolysis and the concentration of H+ in CWMV‐infected wheat cells to create a more favorable cellular environment for CWMV replication.

We propose that vsiRNA‐20 regulates TaVP expression to prevent cell death and to maintain a weak alkaline environment in cytoplasm to enhance CWMV infection in wheat. This finding may be used as a novel strategy to minimize virus pathogenicity and to develop new antiviral stratagems.
Roles of RIN and ethylene in tomato fruit ripening and ripening‐associated traits
Authors: Li Shan , Zhu Benzhong , Pirrello Julien , Xu Changjie , Zhang Bo , Bouzayen Mondher , Chen Kunsong , Grierson Donald
Published: December 2019

RIPENING INHIBITOR (RIN)‐deficient fruits generated by CRISPR/Cas9 initiated partial ripening at a similar time to wild‐type (WT) fruits but only 10% WT concentrations of carotenoids and ethylene (ET) were synthesized. RIN‐deficient fruit never ripened completely, even when supplied with exogenous ET. The low amount of endogenous ET that they did produce was sufficient to enable ripening initiation and this could be suppressed by the ET perception inhibitor 1‐MCP.

The reduced ET production by RIN‐deficient tomatoes was due to an inability to induce autocatalytic system‐2 ET synthesis, a characteristic feature of climacteric ripening. Production of volatiles and transcripts of key volatile biosynthetic genes also were greatly reduced in the absence of RIN.

By contrast, the initial extent and rates of softening in the absence of RIN were similar to WT fruits, although detailed analysis showed that the expression of some cell wall‐modifying enzymes was delayed and others increased in the absence of RIN.

These results support a model where RIN and ET, via ERFs, are required for full expression of ripening genes. Ethylene initiates ripening of mature green fruit, upregulates RIN expression and other changes, including system‐2 ET production. RIN, ET and other factors are required for completion of the full fruit‐ripening programme.
Pathophysiological connections between gallstone disease, insulin resistance, and obesity
Authors: Cortés Víctor A. , Barrera Francisco , Nervi Flavio
Published: December 2019

Obesity and cholesterol gallstone disease (GSD) are frequently coexisting diseases; therefore and considering the current worldwide obesity epidemics, a precise understanding of the pathophysiological relationships between GSD and insulin resistance (IR) is important. Classically, obesity has been understood as a risk factor for GSD and the gallbladder (GB) viewed as a simple bile reservoir, with no metabolic roles whatsoever. However, consistent evidence has showed that both GSD and cholecystectomy associates with fatty liver and IR, raising the possibility that the GB is indeed an organ with metabolic regulatory roles. Herein, we review the pathophysiological mechanisms by which GSD, IR, and obesity are interconnected, with emphasis in the actions of the GB as a regulator of bile acids kinetics and a hormone secreting organ, with metabolic actions at the systemic level. We also examine the relationships between increased hepatic lipogenic in IR states and GSD pathogenesis. We propose a model in which GSD and hepatic IR mutually interact to determine a state of dysregulated lipid and energy metabolism that potentiate the metabolic dysregulation of obesity.
The inflammatory potential of diet impacts the association between air pollution and childhood asthma
Authors: de Castro Mendes Francisca , Paciência Inês , Cavaleiro Rufo João , Silva Diana , Cunha Pedro , Farraia Mariana , Delgado Luís , Garcia‐Larsen Vanessa , Severo Milton , Moreira André , Moreira Pedro
Published: December 2019

Background

Inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM) can cause systematic inflammation and oxidative stress, which may further aggravate the development and progression of asthma. Although nutritional intake of fatty acids and antioxidants may attenuate some effects of fine PM, the role of the inflammatory potential of diet has not been addressed. Therefore, we aimed to investigate possible modulatory effects of dietary inflammatory potential on the association between indoor air pollution and childhood asthma–related outcomes.

Methods

In a sample of 501 children (48.1% females, aged 7‐12 years) from 20 public schools located in Porto, Portugal, we evaluated airway reversibility, exhaled nitric oxide levels, atopy, and current respiratory symptoms. Dietary inflammatory index was calculated based on information collected through a reported 24‐hour recall questionnaire, and participants were categorized as having an anti‐inflammatory or pro‐inflammatory diet. Concentrations of indoor PM2.5 and PM10 were measured to assess indoor air quality. Generalized linear mixed models were used to investigate the proportion of effects explained by the exposure to PM2.5 and PM10.

Results

After adjustment, the exposure effect of PM2.5 and PM10 levels on children with asthma was higher for those having a pro‐inflammatory diet (OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.01‐2.21; and OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.68, respectively) compared to those having an anti‐inflammatory diet.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the quality of diet might affect the association between indoor pollution and asthma in children, highlighting the relevance of children's diet as a potential protective factor to pollutant exposure in childhood asthma.
A fatal case of bortezomib‐induced lung toxicity in a young adult heart transplant recipient
Authors: Frandsen Erik L. , Otero Jessica , Rutledge Joe C. , Kemna Mariska S. , Albers Erin L. , Hong Borah J. , Law Yuk M. , Friedland‐Little Joshua M.
Published: December 2019

Bortezomib is approved for the treatment of multiple myeloma but increasingly used in heart transplant (HTx) recipients with antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR). Severe pulmonary toxicity is a rare complication in multiple myeloma patients treated with bortezomib, but has not been described in a solid organ transplant recipient. A 20‐year‐old man 7 years post‐HTx presented with acute rejection with hemodynamic compromise. Endomyocardial biopsy showed mixed rejection (ISHLT grade 2R‐3R acute cellular rejection (ACR) and pAMR 1 (I+) with diffuse C4d staining). Two new high MFI circulating MHC class‐II donor‐specific antibodies (DSA) were detected. Treatment included corticosteroids, antithymocyte globulin, plasmapheresis, IVIG, rituximab, and bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2). Due to rebound in DSA, a second course of bortezomib was started. Thrombocytopenia and peripheral neuropathy prompted a 50% dose reduction during the 2nd course. Shortly after the 3rd reduced dose, the patient developed hypoxemic respiratory failure. Bronchoscopy revealed pulmonary hemorrhage with negative infectious studies. Chest CT showed bilateral parenchymal disease with bronchiectasis and alveolar bleeding. Despite treatment with high‐dose steroids, severe ARDS ensued with multisystem organ failure. The patient expired 23 days after the final dose of bortezomib. Post‐mortem lung histology revealed diffuse alveolar damage, pulmonary fibrosis, and hemorrhage. Cardiac histology showed resolving/residual ACR 1R and pAMR 1 (I+). While rare, bortezomib‐induced lung toxicity (BILT) can occur in HTx recipients and can carry a high risk of mortality. Drug reaction and immediate drug withdrawal should be considered in patients who develop respiratory symptoms, though optimal management of BILT is unclear.
“Pleasure and Joy in the Work”: Using Simone Weil in the Classroom
Authors: Morgan Vance G.
Published: December 2019

Richard Rorty once wrote that inspired teaching “is the result of an encounter with an author, character, plot, stanza, line or archaic torso which has made a difference to the [teacher’s] conception of who she is, what she is good for, what she wants to do with herself: an encounter which has rearranged her priorities and purposes.” In a teaching career more than three decades long, no author has influenced me more profoundly as a teacher and as a human being than Simone Weil. She has changed how I think about myself, my relationships, the world around me and ultimately about what transcends me. And this could not help but change how I am in the classroom. This essay is a reflection on how Simone Weil has changed my life, both in and out of the classroom.