bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Docetaxel‐based chemotherapy combined with dexamethasone 1 mg daily oral administration for castration‐resistant prostate cancer: Long‐term outcomes
Authors: Tanaka Nobumichi , Nishimura Kazuo , Okajima Eijiro , Ina Kenji , Ogawa Osamu , Nagata Hirohiko , Akakura Koichiro , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Gotoh Momokazu , Teramukai Satoshi , Hirao Yoshihiko
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To report long‐term outcome survival analysis of docetaxel‐based chemotherapy combined with dexamethasone in castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients (Japan‐Multinational Trial Organization Pca10‐01 trial).

Methods

The Japan‐Multinational Trial Organization Pca10‐01 phase II trial was a multicenter, prospective single‐arm, phase II trial both in non‐metastatic and metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients that was organized by The Japan‐Multinational Trial Organization. Patients received 75 mg/m2 of docetaxel (every 21 days) and 0.5 mg of dexamethasone orally twice a day continuing throughout the treatment period. The primary end‐point of this additional analysis was overall survival. Secondary end‐points were progression‐free survival and safety.

Results

Between January 2011 and February 2014, a total of 76 chemotherapy‐naïve castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients were enrolled. The median overall survival time was 42.5 months. The median overall survival time of M1 patients was 40.5 months (M0: not reached). The median progression‐free survival time was 13.2 months (M0: 15.7 months and M1: 12.3 months). The multivariate analysis predicting overall survival of M1 patients showed that time to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (≥20 months) was an independent parameter (hazard ratio 0.39, P = 0.023). Regarding the safety analysis, 36 out of 74 patients (48.6%) suffered from any grade of adverse events after the protocol treatment, and 18 patients (24.3%) had grade ≥3 adverse events.

Conclusions

Docetaxel‐based chemotherapy combined with dexamethasone can achieve excellent survival efficacy not only in M0 castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients, but also in M1 castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients.
Three‐year follow up of adrenal incidentalomas in a New Zealand centre
Authors: Goh Ziwei , Phillips Ian , Hunt Penny J. , Soule Steven , Cawood Tom J.
Published: May 2019

Background

The international guidelines for management of adrenal incidentalomas (AI) are becoming more conservative. These changes are based on the growing body of evidence suggesting that non‐functioning adenomas have a low likelihood of becoming functional or malignant over time.

Aims

To follow up at least 100 patients for 3 years who were originally found to have benign adrenal adenomas which were non‐functional or had subclinical Cushing syndrome (SCS).

Methods

This study prospectively evaluated consecutive patients aged 18 years or older with benign adrenal incidentalomas (AI), not treated with adrenalectomy, which were non‐functioning or had SCS. The initial and follow‐up evaluation, including clinical assessment, hormonal investigations and imaging were coordinated via a standardised nurse‐led AI clinic.

Results

Of 233 patients referred to the AI clinic, 101 patients met the inclusion criteria and completed 3‐year follow up. Most of those excluded were due to incomplete initial or follow‐up evaluation or were not true AI. Most AI either remained stable or decreased in size on repeat imaging, while 5% of patients had AI enlargement of >5 mm diameter. No patient developed features suggesting adrenal carcinoma. Ninety‐two patients had an initial diagnosis of non‐functioning adenoma and nine patients had SCS. After 3 years (range 2.9–4.7 years), five of the nine patients with SCS showed normalisation of cortisol parameters (44%), and five of the 92 non‐functional AI patients developed SCS (5%).

Conclusion

After 3 years of follow up, approximately half of patients with SCS normalised, while 5% of patients with initially non‐functioning adenomas developed biochemical evidence of SCS. This study found a low likelihood of progressive hormonal excess with no evidence of malignancy developing on follow‐up evaluation, providing support for the shift towards the more conservative approach to management of AI recommended in recent guidelines.
Conjunctivitis in atopic dermatitis patients with and without dupilumab therapy – international eczema council survey and opinion
Authors: Thyssen J.P. , de Bruin‐Weller M.S. , Paller A.S. , Leshem Y.A. , Vestergaard C. , Deleuran M. , Drucker A.M. , Foelster‐Holst R. , Traidl‐Hoffmann C. , Eyerich K. , Taieb A. , Su J.C. , Bieber T. , Cork M.J. , Eichenfield L.F. , Guttman‐Yassky E. , Wollenberg A.
Published: May 2019

Background

Conjunctivitis is common in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) in general and a commonly reported adverse event in AD clinical trials with dupilumab.

Objective

To survey opinions and experience about conjunctivitis occurring in AD, including those during dupilumab treatment in a group of AD experts from the International Eczema Council (IEC).

Methods

Electronic survey and in‐person discussion of management strategies.

Results

Forty‐six (53.5%) IEC members from 19 countries responded to the survey. Consensus was reached for several statements regarding diagnostic workup, referral and treatment. IEC members suggest that patients with AD should (i) routinely be asked about ocular complaints or symptoms, (ii) obtain information about the potential for conjunctivitis before starting dupilumab therapy and (iii) if indicated, be treated with dupilumab despite previous or current conjunctivitis. In cases of new‐onset conjunctivitis, there was consensus that dupilumab treatment should be continued when possible, with appropriate referral to an ophthalmologist.

Limitations

The study relies on expert opinion from dermatologists. Responses from few dermatologists without dupilumab access were not excluded from the survey.

Conclusion

The IEC recommends that dermatologists address conjunctivitis in patients with AD, especially during treatment with dupilumab.
Bowel patterns, gastrointestinal symptoms, and emotional well‐being in adolescents: A cohort study
Authors: Ayonrinde Oyekoya T , Sanfilippo Frank M , O'Sullivan Therese A , Adams Leon A , Ayonrinde Oyedeji A , Robinson Monique , Oddy Wendy H , Olynyk John K
Published: May 2019

Background and Aim

Bowel patterns are varied in the general population. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common reasons for clinical visits. We aimed to examine the usual bowel pattern and the prevalence and significance of gastrointestinal symptoms in a population‐based cohort of Australian adolescents.

Methods

Seventeen‐year‐old adolescents (n = 1279) in the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study participated in a cross‐sectional assessment, involving health questionnaires. Questions included medical history, diet, bowel patterns, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Data were analyzed to identify patterns of bowel motions, gastrointestinal symptoms, and factors associated with these in adolescents. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of poorer self‐rated health status.

Results

The dominant pattern of bowel motions was passage of stool that was “not too hard and not too soft” (Bristol stool types 3 and 4) in 90% and occurring between three and seven times per week in 74%. The most prevalent gastrointestinal symptoms included abdominal bloating (72%), abdominal pain (36%), nausea (25%), and constipation (20%). A “Western” dietary pattern was associated with abdominal bloating, constipation, and nausea (P < 0.05). Apart from diarrhea, gastrointestinal symptoms were more prevalent in female adolescents than male adolescents (P < 0.05 for all). Female sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–3.02, P = 0.01), nausea (OR 3.18, 95% CI 2.03–4.98, P < 0.001), and depression (OR 6.68, 95% CI 3.65–12.22, P = 0.03) were independently associated with poorer self‐rated health status, after adjusting for other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions

In adolescents, bowel patterns and gastrointestinal symptoms are diverse and show sex differences. Nausea, depression, and female sex are significant factors for poorer self‐rated health.
Interferon‐Gamma test for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex infection in Macaca mulatta and other non‐human primates
Authors: Yee JoAnn L. , Prongay Kamm , Miles Brodie , Smedley Jeremy , Hansen Scott G. , Axthelm Michael K. , Ardeshir Amir , Van Rompay Koen K. A. , Timmel Gregory , Roberts Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2019

We have formatted an assay to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex infections of non‐human primates. Commercially available reagents were used to elicit a specific immune response that was measured by interferon‐gamma release. Initial evaluation using blood samples from Rhesus macaques experimentally infected with M tuberculosis distinguished infected versus uninfected animals.
How does parent/self‐reporting of common respiratory conditions compare with medical records among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) children and young adults?
Authors: Blake Tamara L , Chang Anne B , Chatfield Mark D , Marchant Julie M , Petsky Helen L , McElrea Margaret S
Published: May 2019

Aim

Self‐reporting and/or data from medical records are frequently used in studies to ascertain health history. Data on the discrepancies between these information sources is lacking for Indigenous Australians. This study reports such data for selected respiratory and atopic conditions common among Indigenous Australians.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Indigenous respiratory reference value study, a multicentre cross‐sectional study of Indigenous children and young adults (3–25 years) between June 2015 and November 2017. Only those living in rural/remote regions were included. Self‐reported history was collected from parents (if participants <18 years) or participants. Medical records were manually reviewed. Participants with incomplete data (missing self‐reported and/or medical record information) were excluded. Agreement between sources was examined using Cohen's kappa.

Results

Of 1097 participants, 889 (97.1% <18 years) had sufficient self‐reported and medical record histories for comparison. Asthma was self‐reported by 15.7% of participants and was reported in medical records for 10.3% (κ = 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45–0.61). For bronchiectasis, the reported rates were 1.5 and 0.7% (κ = 0.52, 95% CI 0.25–0.80), pneumonia 1.1 and 5.8% (κ = 0.15, 95% CI 0.02–0.27), allergic rhinitis 6.6 and 0.6% (κ = 0.05, 95% CI −0.03, 0.13) and eczema 5.8 and 6.2% (κ = 0.30, 95% CI 0.18–0.42).

Conclusions

Within our cohort, agreement was moderate for asthma and bronchiectasis, fair for eczema and poor for pneumonia and allergic rhinitis. These results highlight the challenges associated with how best to obtain an accurate health history within Australian Indigenous rural/remote communities. Generalisability of findings and contributions of poor health knowledge and/or poor medical record documentation need further exploration.
Yiqifumai injection and its main ingredients attenuate lipopolysaccharide‐induced cerebrovascular hyperpermeability through a multi‐pathway mode
Authors: Li Dan‐Tong , Sun Kai , Huang Ping , Pan Chun‐Shui , Yan Li , Ayan Ayididaer , Liu Yu‐Ying , Fan Jing‐Yu , Fang Wei‐Gang , Han Jing‐Yan
Published: May 2019

Objective

Yiqifumai injection is a compound Chinese medicine used to treat microcirculatory disturbance‐related diseases clinically. Our previous study proved that Yiqifumai injection pretreatment inhibited lipopolysaccharide‐induced venular albumin leakage in rat mesentery. This study aimed to investigate whether Yiqifumai injection attenuated cerebral microvascular hyperpermeability and corresponding contribution of its main ingredients.

Methods

Rats were challenged by lipopolysaccharide infusion (5 mg/kg/h) for 90 minutes. Yiqifumai injection (160 mg/kg/h), Rb1 (5 mg/kg/h), Sch (2.5 mg/kg/h), and Rb1 (5 mg/kg/h) + Sch (2.5 mg/kg/h) were infused 30 minutes before (pretreatment) or after (post‐treatment) lipopolysaccharide administration.

Results

Both pretreatment and post‐treatment with Yiqifumai injection attenuated cerebral venular albumin leakage during lipopolysaccharide infusion and cerebrovascular hyperpermeability at 72 hours after lipopolysaccharide infusion. Yiqifumai injection restrained the decreased junction protein expression, adenosine triphosphate content, and mitochondria complex I, II, IV, and V activities. Moreover, Yiqifumai injection inhibited toll‐like receptor‐4 expression, Src phosphorylation, and caveolin‐1 expression. Its main ingredients Rb1 and Sch alone worked differently, with Rb1 being more effective for enhancing energy metabolism, while Sch attenuating toll‐like receptor‐4 expression and Src activation.

Conclusion

Yiqifumai injection exerts a protective and ameliorated effect on cerebral microvascular hyperpermeability, which is more effective than any of its ingredients, possibly due to the interaction of its main ingredients through a multi‐pathway mode.
Study on Zoledronic Acid Reducing Acute Bone Loss and Fracture Rates in Elderly Postoperative Patients with Intertrochanteric Fractures
Authors: Liu Zhong , Li Chun‐wen , Mao Yi‐fan , Liu Kang , Liang Bo‐cheng , Wu Lian‐guo , Shi Xiao‐lin
Published: May 2019

Objective

To observe the effect of zoledronic acid on the reduction of acute bone loss and fracture rate in elderly postoperative patients with intertrochanteric fracture.

Methods

From August 2012 to January 2015, a total of 482 patients with senile osteoporotic femoral intertrochanteric fracture, who accepted proximal femoral intramedullary fixation under anesthesia were analysed. The patients were divided into two groups. Treatment group (353 cases) were treated with 100 mL/5 mg of zoledronic acid injection in 1 week after operation, as well as orally taken 600 mg/d of calcium carbonate and active vitamin D3 400 IU/d. Control group (129 cases) were given the same dose of calcium carbonate and active vitamin D3 orally. Efficacy evaluation were conducted during different periods of medication

Results

Compared with pre‐medication, indexes of bone metabolism (TARP‐5b, CTX) in the treatment group were brought down, especially significantly statistically different after 12 months of medication. The treatment group performed superior to control group in alleviating the pain of back and posture changing (P < 0.05), improving bone density (P < 0.05), depressing re‐fracture rate (P < 0.01) after 24 months of medication. In addition, BP, PF and MH dimension scores were demonstrated with statistical significance (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The application of zoledronic acidin elderly postoperative patients with intertrochanteric fracture can not only relieve acute bone loss, reduce the incidence rate of re‐fracture, alleviate osteoporosis pain and the pain from osteoporotic fracture, but also improve bone metabolism and quality of life, which may offer an acceptable clinical opinion
Autonomous agencies and relational contracts in government bond issues
Authors: Sadeh Tal , Porath Yehuda
Published: May 2019

In this article, we examine how national Debt Management Offices (DMOs) in developed countries handle governments’ relational contracts with lenders, which are characterized by potentially important information asymmetries. In response to privileged information, the DMO can adjust the maturity of the auctioned debt perfunctorily – signaling defection from the win‐win spirit of the contract – or consummately – signaling the government's cooperative attitude, and earning the trust of the lenders. We argue that politically autonomous DMOs have more credibility with lenders and can afford less consummate signals. Depending on the electoral cycle and party age, cabinets can press moderately autonomous DMOs to send less consummate signals, but will be less successful with non‐autonomous DMOs, because of their low credibility. We run fixed effects regressions on a unique dataset based on more than 27,500 issues of government debt in 31 mainly Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development countries during 2004–2012, and a unique compilation of legal texts defining the authority of DMOs.
International spillovers of R&D and marginal social returns
Authors: Ogawa Kazuo , Sterken Elmer , Tokutsu Ichiro
Published: May 2019

This study analyzes marginal social and private returns of R&D investment through the impact of international spillovers of R&D stocks. We compare the marginal social with marginal private returns using data of 27 OECD and EU countries from 1995 to 2008. We consider two channels of R&D spillovers: embodied in trade flows and disembodied by bilateral technological proximity. We find that marginal social returns on R&D are much larger than the marginal private returns for R&D‐intensive countries, in the embodied spillover channel. We also find that the embodied spillover channel through import flows is more important than the disembodied channel.
(Un)Knowing the Rules of the Game: Young Men’s Precarious Talk About “Territory Marking” in Rural Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Vogels Christina
Published: May 2019

Research strongly suggests that the social conditions characteristic of rural communities impact gendered experiences of and beliefs about (hetero)romantic relationships. Largely, this is argued because of the privileging of heteronormative‐gendered roles within rural areas. What also is argued is that this privileging of heteronormativity correlates with the statistically higher rates of oppressive strategies that men are able to use to control their romantic partners. This article contributes to this body of work by analyzing how younger men from a rural high school in Aotearoa/New Zealand talked about the practice of “territory marking,” which involves men using physical violence against one another over women. What was most striking about their talk was how they spoke about this practice, as it was littered with a range of precarious elements. This meant that while it appeared cogent in places, it was also decidedly unknowing, fanciful, and ambiguous. This article will consider what this precarious talk says about how these young men cultivated a rural habitus, motivating them to articulate how idealized masculine bodies should function within public rural spaces. It will also be discussed how the precarious features of their talk signal how such idealized versions of masculinity could be destabilized.
The consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family: an integrative literature review
Authors: Botha Elina , Joronen Katja , Kaunonen Marja
Published: May 2019

Background

The consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family are acknowledged in research, yet to our knowledge, no literature review has been made regarding the overall consequences to the family and infant. This integrative review fills the gap with the aim to review and synthesise current research.

Aims

To identify, describe and synthesise previous studies on the consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family.

Design

An integrative review of literature published between January 2008 and April 2018. The search was conducted in the following databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Medic and Journals@Ovid. Empirical literature reporting the consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family was eligible for inclusion. Quality appraisal was performed using CASP tools and JBI checklists. The extracted data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Thirty‐one articles were included in the review. Ten themes were identified: The consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family create desperation. It ruins everyday life, impairs breastfeeding, isolates and casts parents into loneliness, strains and breaks family relationships with feelings of failure as a parent. The excessively crying infant in the family brings a struggle that can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. The infant may have problems later in childhood. Parents are actively trying to solve the problem and to adjust. Time allows survival with traces of negative symptoms, feelings and memories.

Conclusions

The consequences of having an excessively crying infant in the family are harmful to relationships and health. Caring for the crying infant can lead to exhaustion, which might escalate into abuse. These findings help professionals understand this complex phenomenon and encourage actions for concrete support. Further research is required to explore evidence‐based interventions that can help excessively crying infants and their families.
Toll‐like receptor polymorphism in host immune response to infectious diseases: A review
Authors: Mukherjee Suprabhat , Huda Sahel , Sinha Babu Santi P.
Published: May 2019

Immunopolymorphism is considered as an important aspect behind the resistance or susceptibility of the host to an infectious disease. Over the years, researchers have explored many genetic factors for their role in immune surveillance against infectious diseases. Polymorphic characters in the gene encoding Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) play profound roles in inducing differential immune responses by the host against parasitic infections. Protein(s) encoded by TLR gene(s) are immensely important due to their ability of recognizing different types of pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). This study reviews the polymorphic residues present in the nucleotide or in the amino acid sequence of TLRs and their influence on alteration of inflammatory signalling pathways promoting either susceptibility or resistance to major infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, malaria and filariasis. Population‐based studies exploring TLR polymorphisms in humans are primarily emphasized to discuss the association of the polymorphic residues with the occurrence and epidemiology of the mentioned infectious diseases. Principal polymorphic residues in TLRs influencing immunity to infection are mostly single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). I602S (TLR1), R677W (TLR2), P554S (TLR3), D299G (TLR4), F616L (TLR5), S249P (TLR6), Q11L (TLR7), M1V (TLR8), G1174A (TLR9) and G1031T (TLR10) are presented as the major influential SNPs in shaping immunity to pathogenic infections. The contribution of these SNPs in the structure‐function relationship of TLRs is yet not clear. Therefore, molecular studies on such polymorphisms can improve our understanding on the genetic basis of the immune response and pave the way for therapeutic intervention in a more feasible way.
Isometric preactivation before active lengthening increases residual force enhancement
Authors: Fukutani Atsuki , Shimoho Kento , Isaka Tadao
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The isometric force attained after active stretch is greater than that attained in a purely isometric contraction. This phenomenon is called residual force enhancement (RFE). The purpose was to examine the influence of isometric preactivation conducted just before active stretch on the magnitude of RFE in plantar flexors.

Methods

In the control condition, subjects conducted isometric contraction at 15° of dorsiflexion. In the no preactivation condition, the isometric contraction at 15° of dorsiflexion was conducted after an eccentric contraction from 0° to 15° of dorsiflexion. In the isometric preactivation condition, an isometric contraction was conducted for preactivation before conducting the same routine as in the no preactivation condition. Isometric torque at the end of isometric contraction at 15° of dorsiflexion was compared among conditions to examine whether isometric preactivation affects the magnitude of RFE. The fascicle behaviors of the medial gastrocnemius were recorded by ultrasonography.

Results

The isometric torque attained in the preactivation condition was greater than that in the control condition (P = 0.017). There was no significant difference between no preactivation and control conditions (P = 0.744). The magnitude of fascicle elongation during active stretch was greater in the preactivation than in the no preactivation condition (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Compared to the control condition, greater isometric torque was observed only in the preactivation condition, indicating that substantial RFE was induced only in the preactivation condition. This difference would be explained by the lesser degree of fascicle elongation during active stretch in the no preactivation condition.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DRB3*02:02:17 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Battarra Mariarosa , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Visentin Jonathan
Published: May 2019

HLA‐DRB3*02:02:17 differs from HLA‐DRB3*02:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 179 in exon 3.
Assessing Disability‐Inclusive Language Teaching Methods with Multimodality and Universal Design Principles
Authors: Eikel‐Pohen Mona
Published: May 2019

This article describes a case study of teaching German at the college level for four semesters with a student born blind (with increasing hearing loss). It presents an assessment tool to measure the qualitative and quantitative efficacy of disability/blindness‐inclusive language teaching methods using multimodality and Universal Design principles. The assessment evaluates and ranks eleven language teaching methods used, among others, over four semesters. The methods are discussed with respect to the impact that multimodality and Universal Design principles have on the accessibility for the individual student's needs and dis/abilities as described in the case. The article concludes with reflecting on the assessment tool's quality and effectiveness and stresses the need for more awareness‐raising as well as data‐driven research with methodic analyses at the intersection of language pedagogy and applied disabilities studies.
Using Flipped Learning to Facilitate Cross‐Cultural Critical Thinking in the L2 Classroom
Authors: Jensen Birgit A.
Published: May 2019

The article proposes using the flipped learning approach to gain more classroom time for activities that help learners interact with cultural content so that they may achieve critical cultural awareness, one of the components of Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC). It first distinguishes between the terms “flipped classroom” and “flipped learning,” and then suggests how the 2017 ACTFL Intercultural Can‐Do Statements can enrich the cultural offerings of conventional L2 textbooks. The second segment of the article describes the practical implications of using flipped learning and provides sample assignments from a flipped learning module that promotes cross‐cultural critical thinking as a means to arrive at the ICC dimension of critical cultural awareness. The third part of the article encompasses reflective analyses from the student and instructor perspectives as well as four pedagogical recommendations for using the flipped learning approach to enhance critical cultural awareness by promoting higher cross‐cultural critical thinking skills.
Cultivating Critical Listening: Hörspiele in the German Classroom
Authors: Kita Caroline A. , Eley Michelle R.
Published: May 2019

This article examines how the radio drama, or Hörspiel, might be successfully implemented in the German classroom to train students’ ability to listen for context. Hörspiele can help students reduce their dependency on visual stimuli, develop critical and discerning listening skills, and acquire familiarity with a lesser‐known literary genre and its historical and cultural context. Offering a sample five‐day unit modeled on Heinrich Böll's radio play, Doktor Murkes gesammeltes Schweigen, this article outlines three ways that this Hörspiel can be used in the German language classroom with intermediate‐ to advanced‐level language learners: (1) to develop students’ ability to listen for context through an acoustic literary genre, (2) to reinforce and contextualize grammar concepts such as case and noun declension, and (3) to introduce postwar German culture and the concept of Vergangenheitsbewältigung. The unit's overall aim is to teach students to think critically about how contextual clues such as the quality of voices, background noises, and other acoustic elements help convey meaning. At the conclusion of the unit, students demonstrate their knowledge of the genre and its acoustic markers by creating their own original Hörspiel or radio play adaptation of a short story.
The Input‐Based Incremental Approach to German Vocabulary: A Sample Lesson Based on the Film Barbara
Authors: Fichtner Friederike , Barcroft Joe
Published: May 2019

Input‐based incremental (IBI) vocabulary instruction is an approach that emphasizes presentation of target vocabulary in the input and the gradual development of multiple aspects of vocabulary knowledge over time. This article demonstrates how the IBI approach can be utilized to facilitate the acquisition of German vocabulary as part of content‐based language instruction focused on film. The first section of the article presents the IBI approach, its theoretical underpinnings, and research findings that led to its development. The second section offers a full‐scale IBI lesson that focuses on a pivotal scene in the film Barbara (), directed by Christian Petzold. The lesson illustrates how each of the 10 IBI principles for effective vocabulary instruction can be incorporated while maintaining focus on content of the film and providing learners with opportunities to increase their understanding of the sociopolitical environment of the former German Democratic Republic and its effects on interpersonal relationships.
Statistical Learning, Implicit Learning, and First Language Acquisition: A Critical Evaluation of Two Developmental Predictions
Authors: Arnon Inbal
Published: May 2019

The role of distributional information in language learning, and learning more generally, has been studied extensively in both the statistical learning and the implicit learning literatures. Despite the similarity in research questions, the two literatures have remained largely separate. Here, we draw on findings from the two traditions to critically evaluate two developmental predictions that are central to both. The first is the question of age invariance: Does learning improve during development or is it fully developed in infancy? The combined findings suggest that both implicit and statistical learning improve during childhood, contra the age invariance prediction. This raises questions about the role of implicit statistical learning (ISL) in explaining the age‐related deterioration in language learning: Children's better language learning abilities cannot be attributed to their improved distributional learning skills. The second issue we examine is the predictive relation to language outcomes: Does variation in learning predict variation in language outcomes? While there is evidence for such links, there is concern in both research traditions about the reliability of the tasks used with children. We present data suggesting that commonly used statistical learning measures may not capture stable individual differences in children, undermining their utility for assessing the link to language outcomes in developmental samples. The evaluation of both predictions highlights the empirical parallels between the implicit and statistical learning literatures, and the need to better integrate their developmental investigation. We go on to discuss several of the open challenges facing the study of ISL during development.
COPII‐mediated trafficking at the ER/ERGIC interface
Authors: Peotter Jennifer , Kasberg William , Pustova Iryna , Audhya Anjon
Published: May 2019

Coat proteins play multiple roles in the life cycle of a membrane‐bound transport intermediate, functioning in lipid bilayer remodeling, cargo selection and targeting to an acceptor compartment. The Coat Protein complex II (COPII) coat is known to act in each of these capacities, but recent work highlights the necessity for numerous accessory factors at all stages of transport carrier existence. Here, we review recent findings that highlight the roles of COPII and its regulators in the biogenesis of tubular COPII‐coated carriers in mammalian cells that enable cargo transport between the endoplasmic reticulum and ER‐Golgi intermediate compartments, the first step in a series of trafficking events that ultimately allows for the distribution of biosynthetic secretory cargoes throughout the entire endomembrane system.
Comparative histomorphometric analysis of cellular phenotype in canine stifle ligaments and tendon
Authors: Hayashi Kei , Bhandal Jitender , Kim Sun Young , Walsh Nicholas , Entwistle Rachel , Stover Susan M. , Kapatkin Amy S.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To measure the density of cellular phenotypes in canine caudal cruciate ligament (CaCL), cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and long digital extensor tendon (LDET).

Study design

Ex‐vivo study.

Methods

Ten CaCL, CrCL, MCL, and LDET obtained from 1 stifle of 10 dogs with no gross pathology were analyzed histologically. The density of cells with 3 nuclear phenotypes (fusiform, ovoid, and spheroid) was determined within the core region of each specimen.

Results

Cells with fusiform nuclei were most dense in the MCL (median [range], 319 [118–538] cells/mm2) and LDET (331 [61–463]), whereas cells with ovoid nuclei were most dense in the CaCL (276 [123–368]) and CrCL (212 [165–420]). The spheroid nuclear phenotype had the lowest density in all structures (31 [5–61] in CaCL, 54 [5–90] in CrCL, 2 [0–14] in MCL, and 5 [0–80] in LDET); however, the CrCL contained a denser population of spheroid cells compared with MCL and LDET (P < .05). Total cell densities did not differ among the 4 structures (P > .05).

Conclusion

Phenotype density varied within the ligaments and tendon tested here. The cell population of CaCL and CrCL differed from that of dense collagenous tissues such as MCL and LDET.

Clinical significance

The relatively higher density of spheroid phenotype in CrCL may reflect a distinctive native cellular population or a cellular transformation secondary to unique mechanical environment or hypoxia. This intrinsic cellular population may explain altered tissue properties prone to pathological rupture or poor healing potential of the canine CrCL.
Characterization of Zirconia-Based Ceramics After Microgrinding
Authors: Fook Pablo , Riemer Oltmann
Published: May 2019

Despite the recent developments of ductile mode machining, microgrinding of bioceramics can cause an insufficient surface and subsurface integrity due to the inherent hardness and brittleness of such materials. This work aims to determine the influence of a two-step grinding operation on zirconia-based ceramics. In this regard, zirconia (ZrO2) and zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) specimens are ground with ultrasonic vibration assistance within a variation of the machining parameters using two grinding steps and different diamond grain sizes of the tools in each of the machining procedure. White light interferometry, scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and four-point bending tests are performed to evaluate surface roughness, microstructure, residual stresses, and flexural strength, respectively. The strategy applied suggests that the finished parts are suitable for certain biomedical uses like dental implants due to their optimum surface roughness. Moreover, concerning the mechanical properties, an increase of the flexural strength and compressive residual stresses of ground ZrO2 and ZTA workpieces were observed in comparison to the as-received specimens. These results, as well as the methodology proposed to investigate the surface integrity of the ground workpieces, are helpful to understand the bioceramic materials response under microgrinding conditions and to set further machining investigations.
Unusual and Highly Bioactive Sesterterpenes Synthesized by
Pleurotus ostreatus
during Coculture with
Trametes robiniophila
Murr
Authors: Shen Xiao-Ting , Mo Xu-Hua , Zhu Li-Ping , Tan Ling-Ling , Du Feng-Yu , Wang Qian-Wen , Zhou Yuan-Ming , Yuan Xiao-Jie , Qiao Bin , Yang Song
Published: May 2019

A number of gene clusters involved in biosynthesis of secondary metabolites are presumably silent or expressed at low levels under conditions of standard laboratory cultivation, resulting in a large gap between the pool of discovered metabolites and genome capability. This work mimicked naturally occurring competition by construction of an artificial coculture of basidiomycete fungi for the identification of secondary metabolites with novel scaffolds and excellent bioactivity. Unusual linear sesterterpenes of postrediene A to C synthesized by
P. ostreatus
not only were promising lead drugs against human-pathogenic fungi but also highlighted a distinct pathway for sesterterpene biosynthesis in basidiomycetes. The current work provides an important basis for uncovering novel gene functions involved in sesterterpene synthesis and for gaining insights into the mechanism of silent gene activation in fungal defense.
Missing a Phage: Unraveling Tripartite Symbioses within the Human Gut
Authors: Barr Jeremy J.
Published: May 2019

Tripartite symbioses between bacteriophages, the epithelial cell layers of the human gut, and bacterial symbionts may play an important and unrecognized role in the function of the gut microbiome. Traditionally, phages residing within the gut were considered to interact only with their bacterial hosts and thereby to facilitate indirect interactions with the epithelial cell layers, and yet a growing body of literature is demonstrating the surprising and diverse ways in which phages directly interact with the eukaryotic cells, organs, and systems of the body.
Steroid-induced glaucoma and blindness in vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Senthil Sirisha , Thakur Monica , Rao Harsha Laxmana , Mohamed Ashik , Jonnadula Ganesh Babu , Sangwan Virender , Garudadri Chandra Sekhar
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To report the clinical features, treatment outcomes and blindness associated with steroid-induced glaucoma in vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Materials and methods

Records of patients with VKC, who visited our tertiary centre from 1992 and 2009, were reviewed and those with steroid-induced glaucoma were included in the study. Glaucoma was diagnosed based on intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥22 mm Hg on two consecutive visits (ocular hypertension) and/or glaucomatous optic disc damage. Blindness was defined as best corrected visual acuity of ≤20/400 or visual field <10°.

Results

Of the 4062 VKC subjects, 91 (157 eyes) had steroid-induced glaucoma (SIG), showing a prevalence of 2.24%. Of these 87% were men. The median (IQR) age at onset of VKC was 12 years (7–17). At presentation, the median duration of VKC was 48 months (24–72) and the median duration of steroid usage was 24 months (12–36). The median cup-to-disc ratio (CDR) was 0.9 (0.7–0.9) and median mean deviation was −21.9 dB (−30.0 to –10.2). IOP was medically controlled in 66% eyes (104/157) and 34% eyes (53/157) needed glaucoma surgery. High presenting IOP (OR: 1.04; p=0.05) and increased duration of steroid usage (OR: 1.07; p=0.02) were significantly associated with need for glaucoma surgery. At presentation, 29/91 subjects (31.8%) were bilaterally blind due to SIG. Higher CDR at presentation was significantly associated with blindness in this cohort (p=0.02).

Conclusion

In this cohort of VKC with SIG, the disease predominantly affected adolescent males. Glaucoma was severe with one-third needing surgery and one-third blind due to SIG.
Perceptions of postoutbreak management by management and healthcare workers of a Middle East respiratory syndrome outbreak in a tertiary care hospital: a qualitative study
Authors: Al Knawy Bandar Abdulmohsen , Al-Kadri Hanan M F , Elbarbary Mahmoud , Arabi Yaseen , Balkhy Hanan H , Clark Alex
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This study examines perceptions of the operational and organisational management of a major outbreak of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) caused by a novel coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Perspectives were sought from key decision-makers and clinical staff about the factors perceived to promote and inhibit effective and rapid control of the outbreak.

Setting

A large teaching tertiary healthcare centre in KSA; the outbreak lasted 6 weeks from June 2015.

Participants

Data were collected via individual and focus group interviews with 28 key informant participants (9 management decision-makers and 19 frontline healthcare workers).

Design

We used qualitative methods of process evaluation to examine perceptions of the outbreak and the factors contributing to, or detracting from successful management. Data were analysed using qualitative thematic content analysis.

Results

Five themes and 15 subthemes were found. The themes were related to: (1) the high stress of the outbreak, (2) factors perceived to contribute to outbreak occurrence, (3) factors perceived to contribute to success of outbreak control, (4) factors inhibiting outbreak control and (5) long-term institutional gains in response to the outbreak management.

Conclusion

Management of the MERS-CoV outbreak at King Abdulaziz Medical City-Riyadh was widely recognised by staff as a serious outbreak of local and national significance. While the outbreak was controlled successfully in 6 weeks, progress in management was inhibited by a lack of institutional readiness to implement infection control (IC) measures and reduce patient flow, low staff morale and high anxiety. Effective management was promoted by greater involvement of all staff in sharing learning and knowledge of the outbreak, developing trust and teamwork and harnessing collective leadership. Future major IC crises could be improved via measures to strengthen these areas, better coordination of media management and proactive staff counselling and support.
Validity and effectiveness of paediatric early warning systems and track and trigger tools for identifying and reducing clinical deterioration in hospitalised children: a systematic review
Authors: Trubey Rob , Huang Chao , Lugg-Widger Fiona V , Hood Kerenza , Allen Davina , Edwards Dawn , Lacy David , Lloyd Amy , Mann Mala , Mason Brendan , Oliver Alison , Roland Damian , Sefton Gerri , Skone Richard , Thomas-Jones Emma , Tume Lyvonne N , Powell Colin
Published: May 2019

Objective

To assess (1) how well validated existing paediatric track and trigger tools (PTTT) are for predicting adverse outcomes in hospitalised children, and (2) how effective broader paediatric early warning systems are at reducing adverse outcomes in hospitalised children.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

British Nursing Index, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness, EMBASE, Health Management Information Centre, Medline, Medline in Process, Scopus and Web of Knowledge searched through May 2018.

Eligibility criteria

We included (1) papers reporting on the development or validation of a PTTT or (2) the implementation of a broader early warning system in paediatric units (age 0–18 years), where adverse outcome metrics were reported. Several study designs were considered.

Data extraction and synthesis

Data extraction was conducted by two independent reviewers using template forms. Studies were quality assessed using a modified Downs and Black rating scale.

Results

36 validation studies and 30 effectiveness studies were included, with 27 unique PTTT identified. Validation studies were largely retrospective case-control studies or chart reviews, while effectiveness studies were predominantly uncontrolled before-after studies. Metrics of adverse outcomes varied considerably. Some PTTT demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy in retrospective case-control studies (primarily for predicting paediatric intensive care unit transfers), but positive predictive value was consistently low, suggesting potential for alarm fatigue. A small number of effectiveness studies reported significant decreases in mortality, arrests or code calls, but were limited by methodological concerns. Overall, there was limited evidence of paediatric early warning system interventions leading to reductions in deterioration.

Conclusion

There are several fundamental methodological limitations in the PTTT literature, and the predominance of single-site studies carried out in specialist centres greatly limits generalisability. With limited evidence of effectiveness, calls to make PTTT mandatory across all paediatric units are not supported by the evidence base.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42015015326
Impact of acculturation and psychological adjustment on mental health among migrant adolescents in Guangzhou, China: a cross-sectional questionnaire study
Authors: Shi Lishuo , Chen Wen , Bouey Jennifer Huang , Lin Yanwei , Ling Li
Published: May 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the pathway and associations among acculturation (ie, language, social interaction and lifestyle), psychological adjustment and mental health of internal migrant adolescents in China.

Design

Cross-sectional questionnaire study.

Setting

Six private migrant junior high schools located in Tianhe and Baiyun districts in Guangzhou were chosen as the study sites.

Participants

A total of 1122 migrant adolescents aged 11–17 years old completed the study.

Main outcome measures

Mental health was measured by using the Social Anxiety Scale for Children (SASC) and major depression disorder (MDD) in a Brief Child and Family Phone Interview. Acculturation and psychological adjustment were measured by a self-designed and verified questionnaire. Multiple regression models and structural equation models were performed to analyse the association among acculturation, psychological adjustment and mental health while controlling for participant demographic characteristics.

Results

The average MDD score for boys was 8.78 (SD=2.17) and for girls was 8.56 (SD=2.22), while the average SASC score for boys was 14.67 (SD=3.72) and for girls was 13.41 (SD=4.01). Psychological adjustment had a direct positive effect on MDD (p<0.001, β=0.30) and SASC (p<0.001, β=0.28), and it was the key variable fully mediating the impact of acculturation components on MDD and partly mediating the impact of acculturation on SASC, whereas lifestyle showed a direct negative effect (p=0.003, β=−0.17) on SASC. Of the three acculturation components, lifestyle had the strongest influence on psychological adjustment (p<0.001, β=0.37 and 0.51), followed by social interaction (p<0.001, β=0.24 and 0.13) and language (p<0.001, β=0.17 and 0.11).

Conclusions

The association between acculturation and the mental health of internal migrant adolescents was complex and could be mediated by psychological adjustment. Interventions such as promoting local language and social interaction are needed to enhance psychological adjustment and further improve the mental health of migrant adolescents.