bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterising communities impacted by the 2015 Indiana HIV outbreak: A big data analysis of social media messages associated with HIV and substance abuse
Authors: Cuomo Raphael E. , Cai Mingxiang , Shah Neal , Li Jiawei , Chen Wen‐Hao , Obradovich Nick , Mackey Tim K.
Published: May 2020

Introduction and Aims

Infoveillance approaches (i.e. surveillance methods using online content) that leverage big data can provide new insights about infectious disease outbreaks and substance use disorder topics. We assessed social media messages about HIV, opioid use and injection drug use in order to understand how unstructured data can prepare public health practitioners for response to future outbreaks.

Design and Methods

We conducted an retrospective analysis of Twitter messages during the 2015 HIV Indiana outbreak using machine learning, statistical and geospatial analysis to examine the transition between opioid prescription drug abuse to heroin injection use and finally HIV transmission risk, and to test possible associations with disease burden and demographic variables in Indiana and Marion County. Tweets from October 2014 to June 2015 were compared to disease burden at the county level for Indiana, and classification of census blocks by presence of relevant messages was done at the census block level for Marion County. Marion County was used as it exhibited the highest total count of Tweets.

Results

257 messages about substance abuse and HIV were significantly related to HIV rates (P < 0.001) and opioid‐related hospitalisations (P = 0.037). Using 157 characteristics from the American Community Survey, a linear classifier was computed with an appreciable correlation (r = 0.49) to risk‐related social media messages from Marion County.

Discussion and Conclusions

Communities appear to communicate online in response to disease burden. Classification produced an accurate equation to model census block risk based on census data, allowing for high‐dimensional estimation of risk for blocks with sparse populations.
Goal achievement of HbA1c and LDL‐cholesterol in a randomized trial comparing colesevelam with ezetimibe: GOAL‐RCT
Authors: Bajaj Harpreet S. , Brown Ruth E. , Jiandani Dishay , Venn Karri , Al‐Asaad Hani , Khandwala Hasnain , Steen Oren , Abdel‐Salam Suzan , Aronson Ronnie
Published: May 2020

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety of colesevelam and ezetimibe as second‐line low density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐c)‐lowering options in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods

GOAL‐RCT is a 24‐week, open‐label, randomized, pragmatic clinical trial. Subjects with T2D with uncontrolled HbA1c (7.1%‐10%) and LDL‐c (>2.0 mmol/L) were randomized 1:1 to colesevelam 3.75 g or ezetimibe 10 mg daily. The primary composite outcome was the proportion of participants achieving an LDL‐c target of ≤2.0 mmol/L and HbA1c target of ≤7.0%. Intention to treat analysis was performed.

Results

Two hundred subjects were enrolled: mean age 59 ± 10 years; mean HbA1c 8.0%; mean LDL‐c 2.5 mmol/L; 97% on statin therapy. The primary composite outcome was achieved by similar proportions of participants with colesevelam (14.6%) and ezetimibe (10.5%) (Pnon‐inferiority < .001, Psuperiority = .41). LDL‐c reduction from baseline was less with colesevelam compared with ezetimibe (14.0% vs. 23.2%, P < .01), as was the proportion of subjects achieving an LDL‐c target of ≤2.0 mmol/L (47.6% and 67.0%, respectively; P = .007). Mean HbA1c was reduced with colesevelam (−0.26 ± 0.10%), while no change was observed with ezetimibe (difference P = .06). Adverse events and discontinuation rates were higher for colesevelam (20.2% and 31.1%) compared with ezetimibe (7.2% and 6.2%), respectively.

Conclusions

Among subjects with T2D, the initiation of colesevelam or ezetimibe led to similar achievement of primary composite outcome (LDL‐c and HbA1c within target), with ezetimibe recording a greater LDL‐c reduction and better tolerability than colesevelam.
COVID‐19: Focus on the lungs but do not forget the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Smyk Wiktor , Janik Maciej K. , Portincasa Piero , Milkiewicz Piotr , Lammert Frank , Krawczyk Marcin
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 was declared in the last weeks as global pandemic. Currently affecting more than 5 000 000 individuals worldwide, COVID‐19 is most commonly associated with symptoms caused by the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). As the number of infected individuals increases, we are learning that not only lungs, but also other organs can be affected by the virus. The gastrointestinal symptoms, for example diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea or abdominal pain, are frequent in patients with COVID‐19. Moreover, alimentary tract symptoms may precede the respiratory presentation of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and inappropriate management of infected patients. In addition, SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid can be detected in faeces of infected patients and rectal swabs are even reported to remain positive for a longer period of time than nasopharyngeal swabs. Here, we aim to provide an update on the gastrointestinal involvement of COVID‐19 presenting the symptoms that can be encountered in infected patients. We address the role of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as a functional receptor for SARS‐CoV‐2, which also was found in the gastrointestinal tract. Finally, we briefly discuss faecal shedding of SARS‐CoV‐2 and its potential role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Adverse responses of Cabera pusaria caterpillars to high dietary manganese concentration
Authors: Martinek Petr , Hedbávný Josef , Kudláček Tomáš , Šťasta Michal , Kula Emanuel
Published: May 2020

The adaptation of insects to environmental changes can constitute a crucial factor in their development and activity. The response of Cabera pusaria L. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) caterpillars to high manganese (Mn) concentrations in the diet was studied. Birch leaves were treated by dipping in MnCl2·4H2O solutions, thereby achieving Mn contents of 370 (T0), 695 (T1), 3 198 (T2), and 6 302 mg kg−1 (T3). The reactions were determined by observing caterpillar mortality, development time, food consumption, and pupal weight. Manganese concentrations in larval excrement, pupae, and food were determined. Manganese in the diet at unnaturally increased concentrations caused great stress for caterpillars. All individuals in the treatment with the highest Mn concentration (T3) died during rearing and successful pupation occurred in only four individuals in T2. Even in the case of caterpillars from T1 (twofold higher than T0) a negative reaction (increased food consumption and prolonged development) was recorded. We also determined significantly increased Mn concentration in pupae from T1 (T2 and T3 were not included in this evaluation due to mortality) and excrement (T1‒T3) compared with T0 having a natural Mn concentration. Caterpillars were seen to eliminate negatively acting dietary Mn by its translocation to excrement. However, the highest mortality rate in T2 and T3 and negative reactions of individuals in T1 very likely demonstrate energy insufficiency and the high energy requirements of Mn elimination mechanisms.
Taxonomic and functional diversity in a subtropical stream: A longitudinal pattern analysis
Authors: Zhang Dong , Heng Wujing , Chu Ling , Xu Dongpo , Kang Bin , Yan Yunzhi
Published: May 2020

Identifying the spatial patterns of fish diversity in streams is basic for the conservation and management of stream fishes. The “upstream–downstream” patterns in the taxonomic α‐diversity of stream fishes have been widely surveyed. However, the longitudinal patterns in the functional diversity and β‐diversity of stream fishes have been given less attention. In this study, we surveyed fishes along an upstream–downstream gradient in a headwater stream of the Qiantang River, China, and examined the longitudinal variations in fish diversity. Our aims were to assess whether the longitudinal patterns in fish diversity were consistent between the taxonomic and functional metrics and between the α‐ and β‐aspects of diversity. We found that both species richness and functional richness of fishes showed a hump‐shaped relationship with the distance from headwaters, while both taxonomic and functional β‐diversities presented the U‐shaped distributions along the river continuum. Functional diversity related more to the distance from headwaters than taxonomic diversity. Despite their similar relationship with the distance from headwaters, taxonomic and functional β‐diversities were dominated by species turnover and function nestedness components, respectively. Our results suggest that, along the river continuum in a subtropical stream, the α‐ and β‐aspects of fish diversity present different longitudinal variations. Although the taxonomic and functional diversity shows similar relationships with distance from headwaters, their spatial variations are driven by different ecological processes.
Resolving Peto’s paradox: Modeling the potential effects of size‐related metabolic changes, and of the evolution of immune policing and cancer suppression
Authors: Nunney Leonard
Published: May 2020

The intrinsic risk of cancer increases with body size and longevity; however, big long‐lived species do not exhibit this increase, a contradiction named Peto's paradox. Five hypotheses potentially resolving this paradox were modeled using the multistage model of carcinogenesis. The five hypotheses were based on (1) intrinsic changes in metabolic rate with body size; adaptive increase in immune policing of (2) cancer cells or (3) cells with driver mutations; or adaptive increase in cancer suppression via (4) decreased somatic mutation rate, or (5) increased genetic control. Parameter changes needed to stabilize cancer risk in three types of cancer were estimated for tissues scaled from mouse size and longevity to human and blue whale levels. The metabolic rate hypothesis alone was rejected due to a conflict between the required interspecific effect with the observed intraspecific effect of size on cancer risk, but some metabolic change was optionally incorporated in the other models. Necessary parameter changes in immune policing and somatic mutation rate far exceeded values observed; however, natural selection increasing the genetic suppression of cancer was generally consistent with data. Such adaptive increases in genetic control of cancers in large and/or long‐lived animals raise the possibility that nonmodel animals will reveal novel anticancer mechanisms.
Global ecosystems and fire: Multi‐model assessment of fire‐induced tree‐cover and carbon storage reduction
Authors: Lasslop Gitta , Hantson Stijn , Harrison Sandy P. , Bachelet Dominique , Burton Chantelle , Forkel Matthias , Forrest Matthew , Li Fang , Melton Joe R. , Yue Chao , Archibald Sally , Scheiter Simon , Arneth Almut , Hickler Thomas , Sitch Stephen
Published: May 2020

In this study, we use simulations from seven global vegetation models to provide the first multi‐model estimate of fire impacts on global tree cover and the carbon cycle under current climate and anthropogenic land use conditions, averaged for the years 2001–2012. Fire globally reduces the tree covered area and vegetation carbon storage by 10%. Regionally, the effects are much stronger, up to 20% for certain latitudinal bands, and 17% in savanna regions. Global fire effects on total carbon storage and carbon turnover times are lower with the effect on gross primary productivity (GPP) close to 0. We find the strongest impacts of fire in savanna regions. Climatic conditions in regions with the highest burned area differ from regions with highest absolute fire impact, which are characterized by higher precipitation. Our estimates of fire‐induced vegetation change are lower than previous studies. We attribute these differences to different definitions of vegetation change and effects of anthropogenic land use, which were not considered in previous studies and decreases the impact of fire on tree cover. Accounting for fires significantly improves the spatial patterns of simulated tree cover, which demonstrates the need to represent fire in dynamic vegetation models. Based upon comparisons between models and observations, process understanding and representation in models, we assess a higher confidence in the fire impact on tree cover and vegetation carbon compared to GPP, total carbon storage and turnover times. We have higher confidence in the spatial patterns compared to the global totals of the simulated fire impact. As we used an ensemble of state‐of‐the‐art fire models, including effects of land use and the ensemble median or mean compares better to observational datasets than any individual model, we consider the here presented results to be the current best estimate of global fire effects on ecosystems.
Digital dermoscopic changes during follow‐up of de‐novo and nevus‐associated melanoma: a cohort study
Authors: Pampena Riccardo , Manfreda Valeria , Kyrgidis Athanassios , Lai Michela , Borsari Stefania , Benati Elisa , Lombardi Mara , Bianchi Luca , Zalaudek Iris , Moscarella Elvira , Lallas Aimilios , Argenziano Giuseppe , Pellacani Giovanni , Longo Caterina
Published: May 2020

Background

Nevus‐associated melanoma (NAM) has been regarded as a distinct biological entity from de‐novo melanoma (DNM); however, static dermoscopy often fails in differentiating these entities. Digital dermoscopic monitoring allows to identify dynamic changes occurring during follow‐up; this may improve diagnostic accuracy and potentially our knowledge on NAM biology. We aimed to define main independent factors associated with NAM diagnosis and those influencing follow‐up time in a population of melanomas excised at follow‐up.

Methods

A cohort of melanomas excised at follow‐up was retrospectively and consecutively selected. NAMs and DNMs were compared according to baseline features and main dermoscopic changes occurring during follow‐up. Univariate and multivariable logistic and Cox's regression analysis were performed to respectively define factors associated with NAM diagnosis and those influencing the risk for excision.

Results

Eighty‐six melanomas were enrolled, of which 21 (24.4%) were nevus‐associated. During follow‐up NAMs mainly underwent atypical network modifications (47.6%), followed by inverse network (28.6%) and dermoscopic island (23.8%) worsening or appearance. DNMs were also mainly characterized by atypical network modifications (47.7%), however, a significant proportion of cases underwent irregular pigmentation/dots/globules or regression changes (29.2%), which were rarely seen among NAMs. Furthermore, both multivariable logistic and Cox's regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between NAM and a longer follow‐up.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that among melanomas excised at follow‐up, different patterns of dermoscopic changes may be found between NAMs and DNMs. This finding, together with the association of NAM with a longer follow‐up time, supports the hypothesis of different biological behavior of these two entities.
Hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel’s disease): our experience and review of the literature
Authors: Bortoluzzi Paolo , Cusini Marco , Veraldi Stefano , Nazzaro Gianluca
Published: May 2020

Hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (HLP), or Flegel’s disease (FD), is a rare disorder of keratinization first described in 1958 by Flegel. HLP is characterized by asymptomatic small papules distributed symmetrically on the dorsal feet and lower part of the legs. It typically presents in the fourth or fifth decade of life. FD has been reported more commonly in women, and little is known about the pathogenesis of this rare dermatosis. Histological examination is mandatory to confirm the diagnosis, and the characteristic features are: focal compact hyperkeratosis, thinned stratum malpighii, epidermal atrophy, and a dense, band‐like lymphocytic infiltrate in the papillary dermis. The treatment of FD is challenging, and a fully effective standard therapy does not exist. We report four cases of HLP that have been diagnosed at the Dermatology Unit of IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico in Milan, Italy, and a literature review is enclosed.
Brief admission for patients with emotional instability and self‐harm: A qualitative analysis of patients’ experiences during crisis
Authors: Eckerström Joachim , Flyckt Lena , Carlborg Andreas , Jayaram‐Lindström Nitya , Perseius Kent‐Inge
Published: May 2020

Previous studies report that individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder have been met by negative attitudes from healthcare professionals and their care needs have often been neglected during hospitalizations. When symptoms of emotional instability are combined with self‐harm, the resulting crisis often becomes difficult to handle for patients and healthcare professionals. To meet their care needs during these crises, an intervention called ‘brief admission’ (BA) has been developed. The purpose of BA is to provide a timeout, in situations of increased stress and threat, in order to foster self‐management in a safe environment. In the present study, we explored the following research questions: What are patients’ experiences with BA? What do patients consider to be the key components of BA? What improvements are considered relevant by patients? A qualitative design was employed, and 15 patients (13 females, 2 males; mean age 38.5 ± 12.9, range 20–67 years) were interviewed using a semi‐structured interview guide. Thematic analyses were performed, which yielded four themes related to the patients’ experiences: ‘a timeout when life is tough’, ‘it is comforting to know that help exists’, ‘encouraged to take personal responsibility’, and ‘it is helpful to see the problems from a different perspective’. Four themes also described the key components: ‘a clear treatment plan’, ‘a smooth admission procedure’, ‘a friendly and welcoming approach from the staff’, and ‘daily conversations’. Lastly, three themes described areas for improvements: ‘feeling guilty about seeking BA’, ‘room occupancy issues’, and ‘differences in staff’s competence’. Collectively, the findings indicate that BA constructively supports patients with emotional instability and self‐harm during a period of crisis.
Are high‐risk patient and revision arthroplasty effective indications for closed‐incisional negative‐pressure wound therapy after total hip or knee arthroplasty? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Jun‐Ho , Lee Dae‐Hee
Published: May 2020

To determine the effective indications of closed‐incisional negative‐pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) following total hip or knee arthroplasty, this systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted. The systematic search was performed on MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library, and 11 studies were included. The studies comparing between ciNPWT and conventional dressings were categorised into following subgroups based on patient risk and revision procedures: routine vs high‐risk patient; primary vs revision arthroplasty. Pooled estimates were calculated for wound complication and surgical site infection (SSI) rates in the subgroup analyses using Review Manager. In high‐risk patients, the overall rates of wound complication (odds ratio [OR] = 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15‐0.93; P = .030) and SSI (OR = 0.24; 95% CI = 0.09‐0.64; P = .005) were significantly lower in the ciNPWT; however, there were no differences in routine patients. In cases involving revision arthroplasties, the overall rates of wound complication (OR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.18‐0.62; P < .001) and SSI (OR = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.11‐0.66; P = .004) were significantly lower in the ciNPWT; however, there were no differences in cases involving primary arthroplasties. In summary, ciNPWT showed a positive effect in decreasing the rates of wound complication and SSI in high‐risk patients and in revision arthroplasties.
Personalized medical information card for adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: An initiative to improve communication between patients and healthcare providers
Authors: Loo Joanne C. Y. , Boot Erik , Corral Maria , Bassett Anne S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Many individuals with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers struggle to provide accurate and complete information to healthcare providers.

Method

The present authors provided personal medical information cards (PMICs) containing contact and medical information to 52 Canadian adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a genetic condition associated with intellectual disability. The authors invited them and/or their caregivers to complete a user satisfaction survey concerning usage of the card.

Results

Forty‐eight (92%) patients or their caregivers completed the survey. Twenty‐two (46%) respondents used the PMIC over a median of 8 months during encounters with doctors and other professionals, and a majority of these used it more than once. Users reported finding the PMIC “very helpful” (86%) or “helpful” (14%), providing necessary information, speeding up interactions with professionals and helping avoid repeat storytelling.

Conclusion

Providing a PMIC to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers could help improve patient safety and assist in advocacy.
Targeting mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins for cardioprotection
Authors: Hernandez‐Resendiz Sauri , Prunier Fabrice , Girao Henrique , Dorn Gerald , Hausenloy Derek J. ,   EU‐CARDIOPROTECTION COST Action (CA16225)
Published: May 2020

New treatments are needed to protect the myocardium against the detrimental effects of acute ischaemia/reperfusion (IR) injury following an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in order to limit myocardial infarct (MI) size, preserve cardiac function and prevent the onset of heart failure (HF). Given the critical role of mitochondria in energy production for cardiac contractile function, prevention of mitochondrial dysfunction during acute myocardial IRI may provide novel cardioprotective strategies. In this regard, the mitochondrial fusion and fissions proteins, which regulate changes in mitochondrial morphology, are known to impact on mitochondrial quality control by modulating mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response. In this article, we review how targeting these inter‐related processes may provide novel treatment targets and new therapeutic strategies for reducing MI size, preventing the onset of HF following AMI.
Pitavastatin induces apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma through activation of FOXO3a
Authors: Lee Naeun , Tilija Pun Nirmala , Jang Won‐Jun , Bae Jung Woo , Jeong Chul‐Ho
Published: May 2020

Statins are a class of lipid‐lowering drugs that have recently been used in drug repositioning in the treatment of human cancer. However, the underlying mechanism of statin‐induced cancer cell death has not been clearly defined. In the present study, we evaluated the anticancer effect of pitavastatin on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), SCC15 and SCC4 cells and found that FOXO3a might be a direct target in pitavastatin‐induced cancer cell death. Our data revealed that pitavastatin selectively suppressed cell viability and induced intrinsic apoptosis in a FOXO3a‐dependent manner in SCC15 cells while no effect was observed in SCC4 cells. Notably, treatment with pitavastatin in SCC15 cells induced the nuclear translocation of FOXO3a via dual regulation of two upstream kinases, AMPK and Akt, resulting in the up‐regulation of PUMA, a transcriptional target gene of FOXO3a. Furthermore, our data revealed that FOXO3a‐mediated PUMA induction plays a role in pitavastatin‐induced intrinsic apoptosis in SCC15 cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that pitavastatin activates the FOXO3a/PUMA apoptotic axis by regulation of nuclear translocation of FOXO3a via Akt/FOXO3a or AMPK/FOXO3a signalling. Therefore, these findings might help to elucidate the underlying mechanism of the anticancer effects of pitavastatin on OSCC.
Frailty screening in dermato‐oncology practice: a modified Delphi study and a systematic review of the literature
Authors: van Winden M.E.C. , Garcovich S. , Peris K. , Colloca G. , de Jong E.M.G.J. , Hamaker M.E. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M. , Lubeek S.F.K.
Published: May 2020

Background

Appropriate management and prevention of both under‐ and overtreatment in older skin cancer patients can be challenging. It could be helpful to incorporate frailty screening in dermato‐oncology care, since frailty is associated with adverse health outcomes.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify and prioritize the requirements a frailty screening tool (FST) should fulfil in dermato‐oncology practice and to select the best existing FST(s) for this purpose.

Methods

A modified two‐round Delphi procedure was performed among 50 Italian and Dutch specialists and patients to review and prioritize a list of potential FST requirements, using a 5‐point Likert scale. Consensus was defined as a mean score of ≥4.0. A systematic literature search was performed to identify existing multidomain FSTs, which were then assessed on the requirements resulting from the modified Delphi procedure.

Results

Consensus was achieved on evaluation of comorbidities (4.3 ± 0.7), polypharmacy (4.0 ± 0.9) and cognition (4.1 ± 0.8). The FST should have appropriate measurement properties (4.0 ± 1.0), be quickly executed (4.2 ± 0.7), clinically relevant (4.3 ± 0.7), and both easily understandable (4.1 ± 1.2) and interpretable (4.3 ± 0.7). Of the 26 identified FSTs, four evaluated the content‐related domains: the Geriatric‐8 (G8), the modified Geriatric‐8 (mG8), the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI) and the Senior Adult Oncology Program 2 (SAOP2) screening tool. Of these, the G8 was the most extensively studied FST, with the best psychometric properties and execution within 5 min.

Conclusions

The G8 appears the most suitable FST for assessing frailty in older adults with skin cancer, although clinical studies assessing its use in a dermato‐oncology population are needed to further assess whether or not frailty in this particular patient group is associated with relevant outcomes (e.g. complications and mortality), as seen in previous studies in other medical fields.
COVID‐19 in the Long‐Term Care Setting: The CMS Perspective
Authors: Levitt Alan F. , Ling Shari M.
Published: May 2020

Safeguarding the health and promoting the well‐being and quality of life of the most vulnerable and fragile citizens is a top priority for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). In response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, numerous regulatory policies and 1,135 waivers of federal requirements have been implemented by CMS to give long‐term care providers and professionals flexibility to meet the demands of resident and patient care needs during this public health emergency. Goals for these policies and waivers are increasing capacity, enhancing workforce and capability, improving oversight and transparency, preventing COVID‐19 transmission, and reducing provider burden. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1366‐1369, 2020.
Approaches to training multiclass semantic image segmentation of damage in concrete
Authors: BAJCSY P. , FELDMAN S. , MAJURSKI M. , SNYDER K. , BRADY M.
Published: May 2020

This paper addresses the problem of creating a large quantity of high‐quality training segmentation masks from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The images are acquired from concrete samples that exhibit progressive amounts of degradation resulting from alkali–silica reaction (ASR), a leading cause of deterioration, cracking and loss of capacity in much of the nation's infrastructure. The target damage classes in concrete SEM images are defined as paste damage, aggregate damage, air voids and no damage. We approached the SEM segmentation problem by applying convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based methods to predict the damage classes due to ASR for each image pixel. The challenges in using the CNN‐based methods lie in preparing large numbers of high‐quality training labelled images while having limited human resources. To address these challenges, we designed damage‐ and context‐assisted approaches to lower the requirements on human resources. We then evaluated the accuracy of CNN‐based segmentation methods using the datasets prepared with these two approaches.

Lay Description

This work is about automated segmentation of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images taken from core and prism samples of concrete. The segmentation must detect several damage classes in each image in order to understand properties of concrete‐made structures over time. The segmentation problem is approached with an artificial network (AI) based model. The training data for the AI model are created using damage‐ and context‐assisted approaches to lower the requirements on human resources. The access to all training data and to a web‐based validation system for scoring segmented images is available at https://isg.nist.gov/deepzoomweb/data/concreteScoring.
MicroRNA‐22‐3p alleviates spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury by modulating M2 macrophage polarization via IRF5
Authors: Fang Hua , Yang Miao , Pan Qin , Jin Hon‐Ling , Li Hua‐Feng , Wang Ru‐Rong , Wang Quan‐Yun , Zhang Jian‐Ping
Published: May 2020

Cell death after spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) can occur through necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy, resulting in changes to the immune environment. However, the molecular mechanism of this immune regulation is not clear. Accumulating evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of spinal cord I/R injury. Here, we hypothesized miR‐22‐3p may be involved in spinal cord I/R injury by interacting with interferon regulatory factor (IRF) 5. Rat models of spinal cord I/R injury were established by 12‐min occlusion of the aortic arch followed by 48‐hr reperfusion, with L4‐6 segments of spinal cord tissues collected. MiR‐22‐3p agomir, a lentivirus‐delivered siRNA specific for IRF5, or a lentivirus expressing wild‐type IRF5 was injected intrathecally to rats with I/R injury to evaluate the effects of miR‐22‐3p and IRF5 on hindlimb motor function. Macrophages isolated from rats were treated with miR‐22‐3p mimic or siRNA specific for IRF5 to evaluate their effects on macrophage polarization. The levels of IL‐1β and TNF‐α in spinal cord tissues were detected by ELISA. miR‐22‐3p was down‐regulated, whereas IRF5 was up‐regulated in rat spinal cord tissues following I/R. IRF5 was a target gene of miR‐22‐3p and could be negatively regulated by miR‐22‐3p. Silencing IRF5 or over‐expressing miR‐22‐3p relieved inflammation, elevated Tarlov score, and reduced the degree of severity of spinal cord I/R injury. Increased miR‐22‐3p facilitated M2 polarization of macrophages and inhibited inflammation in tissues by inhibiting IRF5, thereby attenuating spinal cord I/R injury. Taken together, these results demonstrate that increased miR‐22‐3p can inhibit the progression of spinal cord I/R injury by repressing IRF5 in macrophages, highlighting the discovery of a promising new target for spinal cord I/R injury treatment.

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Effects of Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness‐Based Cognitive Therapy in People With Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ni Yunxia , Ma Lin , Li Jiping
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness‐based cognitive therapy (MBCT) on depression, quality of life (QoL), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in people with diabetes.

Design

A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis was conducted.

Methods

Eight databases (PubMed, Embase, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], Cochrane, PsycINFO, and three Chinese databases) were searched for relevant studies from inception to December 2019. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of MBSR and MBCT interventions for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were included.

Findings

Nine studies described in 11 articles were included in the review. Meta‐analysis showed a significant effect favoring MBSR and MBCT on depression (standardized mean difference ‐0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] ‐1.16 to ‐0.51; p < .0001), the mental health composite score of QoL (mean difference [MD] 7.06; 95% CI 5.09 to 9.03; p < .00001), and HbA1c (MD ‐0.28; 95% CI ‐0.47 to ‐0.09; p = .004). However, effects on the physical health composite score of QoL have not been found.

Conclusions

MBSR and MBCT are beneficial in improving depression, the mental health composite score of QoL, and HbA1c in people with diabetes. More well‐designed trials using longer follow‐up measurements are needed.

Clinical Relevance

MBSR and MBCT could be considered as effective complementary treatment alternatives for people with diabetes.
The ontogeny of maximum bite force in humans
Authors: Edmonds Hallie M. , Glowacka Halszka
Published: May 2020

Ontogenetic changes in the human masticatory complex suggest that bite force, a key measure of chewing performance, increases throughout growth and development. Current published bite force values for humans exist for molar and incisal biting, but few studies measure bite forces across all tooth types, or measure bite force potentials in subjects of different ages. In the absence of live data, models of bite force such as the Constrained Lever Model (CLM), are employed to predict bite force at different bite points for adults, but it is unclear whether such a model can accurately predict bite force potentials for juveniles or subadults. This study compares theoretically derived bite forces and live bite force data, and places these within an ontogenetic context in humans. Specifically, we test whether (1) patterns of maximum bite force increase along the tooth row throughout ontogeny, (2) bite force patterns estimated using the CLM match patterns observed from live bite force data, and (3) changes in bite forces along the tooth row and throughout ontogeny are associated with concomitant changes in adductor muscle leverage. Our findings show that maximum bite forces increase throughout ontogeny and change along the tooth row, with the highest forces occurring at the posterior dentition. These findings adhere to the expectations under the CLM and validate the model’s utility in predicting bite force values throughout development. Furthermore, adductor muscle leverage values reflect this pattern, with the greatest leverage values occurring at the posterior dentition throughout ontogeny. The CLM informs our study of mammalian chewing mechanics by providing a model of how morphological changes of the masticatory apparatus during ontogeny affect bite force distribution along the tooth row. Furthermore, the decreased bite force magnitudes observed in juveniles and subadults compared with adults suggest that differences in juvenile and subadult diets may partially be due to differences in bite force production potentials.
Early prediction of methotrexate treatment outcome in tubal ectopic pregnancy based on days 0 and 4 human chorionic gonadotropin levels
Authors: Shatkin Hamish Noy , Wolf Maya , Tendler Rene , Sharon Avishalom , Bornstein Jacob , Odeh Marwan
Published: May 2020

Aim

Methotrexate (MTX) is an efficient treatment for ectopic pregnancy, used according to ‘single‐dose’ protocol. Treatment success is evaluated on days 4 and 7 after dose administration, and defined as a decline of ≥15% in beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐hCG) levels, with a positive predictive value of 93%. A decrease on day 4 β‐hCG levels was determined to be a good predictor for treatment success. We retrospectively examined changes in β‐hCG levels between days 0 and 4 after MTX treatment as an early predictor for treatment outcome.

Methods

The ‘success group’ consisted of patients with resolved ectopic pregnancy after a single MTX dose and ‘failure group’ included patients who required additional MTX doses or underwent surgery after the first dose. For each group, demographic and pregnancy data were analyzed as well as initial (admission day), days 0, 4 and 7 β‐hCG levels.

Results

Of 159 women included in the study, MTX treatment was successful in 117 patients (73.6%) while 42 patients (26.4%) were defined as treatment failure. In the success group, most patients (58.9%) demonstrated a decrease in β‐hCG values between days 0 and 4 as opposed to the failure group in which an increase in β‐hCG values was observed (76.2%). Decrease of >18% in β‐hCG levels was predictive of treatment success (positive predictive value 92%). Increase in β‐hCG values is less predictive of treatment failure with positive predictive value of 54%.

Conclusion

Differences in β‐hCG levels between days 0 and 4 may serve as an early predictor for treatment outcome.
Status of Sleep Apnea and Snoring Disorder Curriculum in U.S. Advanced Education Prosthodontic Programs
Authors: Manzotti Anna , Roenitz Christine , Yuan Judy Chia‐Chun , Sukotjo Cortino , Vieira Marques Isabella da Silva , Alfaro Maria F. , Wee Alvin G.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To assess the management of sleep apnea and snoring disorders in Advanced Education Programs in Prosthodontics (AEPP) in the United States.

Materials and Methods

A 51 item, online survey was sent to program directors at 48 AEPPs in the United States in 2015. Data results were analyzed descriptively.

Results

Thirty‐five program directors responded to the survey. Twenty‐four (68.6%, N = 35) programs report not having a dedicated course for the treatment of sleep apnea and snoring disorders. The majority (94.3%) of programs chose to treat sleep disordered breathing with oral appliance therapy and 80.0% (N = 35) of programs utilize customized sleep apnea oral devices. However, only 48.6% (N = 35) and 51.4% (N = 35) of programs regularly address sleep apnea and snoring disorders at initial examination during the comprehensive exam and medical history questionnaire, respectively.

Conclusions

The confidence interval for this survey is 8.71 at a confidence level of 95% due to a response rate of 72.9%. This confidence interval suggests there is responder bias in the survey results. Therefore, the results of this survey provide a suggestion of how sleep disorders are managed in AEPPs. Programs appear to be consistent among each other with regards to treatment modalities for sleep disordered breathing. The results suggest that patients are not screened enough to receive treatment addressing sleep disorders.
Bullying Victimization and e‐Cigarette Use among Middle and High School Students
Authors: Azagba Sunday , Mensah Nana Akofua , Shan Lingpeng , Latham Keely
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Bullying has been associated with several adverse health outcomes, including substance use. However, little is known about the association between bullying and e‐cigarette use. This study examined the association between bully victimization and the frequency of e‐cigarette
use.

METHODS

Data from the 2016‐2017 Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey were used (N = 49,543). The target population consists of Canadian students enrolled in grades 7‐12. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association between bullying victimization status and e‐cigarette
use.

RESULTS

Among the students included in the study, 14.1% were bullied less than once a week. Bullying victimization was statistically significantly associated with higher odds of any e‐cigarette use in the last 30 days. Likewise, those bullied daily or almost daily were more likely to use e‐cigarettes more frequently compared to students not bullied. We found a statistically significant difference in analysis stratified by sex, with female bullying victims having higher odds of all measures of e‐cigarette
use.

CONCLUSIONS

Bullying victims were significantly more likely to use an e‐cigarette, and findings appeared to vary by sex. Female bullying victims had a higher likelihood of e‐cigarette
use.
Trimethoprim–Sulfamethoxazole: new lessons on an old antimicrobial; a retrospective analysis
Authors: Bakdach Dana , Elajez Reem
Published: May 2020

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of TMP-SMX prescriptions as part of drug utilization review.

Method

Charts of all patients (adults and paediatrics) admitted to Hamad General Hospital who received TMP-SMX from December 2016 till May 2017 were reviewed and assessed for prescribing/administering appropriateness.

Key findings

Total of 149 patients was included (55 paediatrics, 94 adults). None of the adults were tested for G6PD before initiating TMP-SMX, while most of the paediatrics (85.5%) had a record of G6PD status. Dosing of TMP-SMX was considered appropriate in 65% of the paediatrics, whereas only in 49% of adults. Bone infections and S. maltophilia were the uppermost indications associated with inappropriate dosing (85.7 and 74.3%, respectively). Errors in dosing were observed to be higher with intravenous formulations (51.2%) compared to orals (35.2%). With regard to pharmacy verification/dispensing, 135 out of 149 orders (90.6%) were correctly verified/dispensed. Appropriateness of the prescribed dosing was only significantly affected by the indication for TMP-SMX use (P-value < 0.001), while the route of administration was the only variable that correlated significantly with pharmacy verification/dispensing errors (P-value 0.032).

Conclusion

TMP-SMX prescribing patterns were not always optimum. The results of this study should promote healthcare facilities to review/ensure optimal utilization of TMP-SMX which can consequently help in diminishing burden of antimicrobial resistance.
Melatonin‐triggered post‐transcriptional and post‐translational modifications of ADAMTS1 coordinately retard tumorigenesis and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wen Yu‐Ching , Lin Yung‐Wei , Chu Chih‐Ying , Yang Yi‐Chieh , Yang Shun‐Fa , Liu Yu‐Fan , Hsiao Michael , Lee Wei‐Jiunn , Chien Ming‐Hsien
Published: May 2020

A disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) family are widely implicated in tissue remodeling events manifested in cancer development. ADAMTS1, the most fully characterized ADAMTS, plays conflicting roles in different cancer types; however, the role of ADAMTS1 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unclear. Herein, we found that ADAMTS1 is highly expressed in RCC tissues compared to normal renal tissues, and its expression was correlated with an advanced stage and a poor prognosis of RCC patients. In vitro, we observed higher expression of ADAMTS1 in metastatic (m)RCC cells compared to primary cells, and manipulation of ADAMTS1 expression affected cell invasion and clonogenicity. Results from protease array showed that ADAMTS1 is modulated by melatonin through mechanisms independent of the MT1 receptor in mRCC cells, and overexpression of ADAMTS1 relieved the invasion/clonogenicity and growth/metastasis inhibition imposed by melatonin treatment in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft model. The human microRNA (miR) OneArray showed that miR‐181d and miR‐let‐7f were induced by melatonin and, respectively, targeted the 3’‐UTR and non‐3'‐UTR of ADAMTS1 to suppress its expression and mRCC invasive ability. Clinically, RCC patients with high levels of miR‐181d or miR‐let‐7f and a low level of ADAMTS1 had the most favorable prognoses. In addition, ubiquitin/proteasome‐mediated degradation of ADAMTS1 can also be triggered by melatonin. Together, our study indicates that ADAMTS1 may be a useful biomarker for predicting RCC progression. The novel convergence between melatonin and ADAMTS1 post‐transcriptional and post‐translational regulation provides new insights into the role of melatonin‐induced molecular regulation in suppressing RCC progression.
The effect of crude protein content of the diet on renal energy losses in horses
Authors: Kuchler Marleen , Zeyner Annette , Susenbeth Andreas , Kienzle Ellen
Published: May 2020

Renal energy losses of horses are high in comparison with other species. In the present study, more data were obtained on this parameter to improve predictive equations for renal energy losses. Four adult ponies (247–344 kg body weight [BW]) were fed with eight different diets based on first cut hay, second cut hay, early first cut fresh grass, late cut herbs–grass mix, early cut clover–grass mix, sugar beet pulp, rice bran and straw. Feed intake was measured, and urine and faeces were quantitatively collected for 3 × 12 hr at daytime and afterwards 3 × 12 hr at nighttime. Feed was analysed for crude nutrients, gross energy, amino acids and neutral‐detergent‐insoluble crude protein (NDICP); faeces were analysed for crude nutrients and gross energy; and urine was analysed for nitrogen (N) and gross energy. Renal energy losses per gram dry matter (DM) intake (y; kJ/g DM) were strictly correlated to protein content in DM (x; g/kg DM): y = 0.325 + 0.00431x; r2 = .81; n = 38; p < .001. The data suggest that the intercept represents energy losses by detoxification products such as hippuric acid and the regression coefficient by protein metabolites such as urea.
The effect of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) distillation residues and linseed supply on fatty acid profile, meat colour, lipid oxidation and sensorial and hygienic quality of cull Barbarine ewes' meat
Authors: Ben Abdelmalek Yomna , Smeti Samir , Essid Ines , Yagoubi Yathreb , Tibaoui Souha , Atti Naziha
Published: May 2020

To test the hypothesis that feeding cull ewes with Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) distillation residues (RR) and linseed improves meat quality traits; fatty acid (FA) profile, lipid oxidation, meat colour, sensory and microbiological analysis were investigated. For this, 28 Barbarine ewes received 500 g of basal diet and 700 g of concentrate. Two groups received the control concentrate (CC) with, as basal diet, straw for CCC and straw plus 200 g of RR for RCC group. The two other groups received the concentrate containing 10% of linseed (LC) with straw for CLC and straw plus 200 g of RR for RLC group. The linseed intake increased n‐3 PUFA (+28.7%) and C18:3n‐3(+41%) and decreased n‐6/n‐3 ratio from 4.55 to 3.25; while the RR diet affected only the content of branched chain fatty acid in cull ewes’ meat. Feeding RR combined to linseed delayed lipid oxidation at almost ½ at Day 9 (2.38 vs. 4.63 for RLC and CLC respectively). Meat from rosemary diet had higher tenderness and lower resilience. It is concluded that the meat obtained after rosemary and linseed supply can be regarded as healthier and shows higher quality traits and greater oxidation stability under chilling storage.