bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alcohol‐related harm in emergency departments: linking to subsequent hospitalizations to quantify under‐reporting of presentations
Authors: Sims Scott , Preen David , Pereira Gavin , Fatovich Daniel , Livingston Michael , O'Donnell Melissa
Published: October 2020

Title

Alcohol‐related harm in emergency departments: linking to subsequent hospitalizations to quantify under‐reporting of presentations.

Aims

To quantify the proportion of emergency department (ED) presentations that could be identified as alcohol‐related when linking to a patient's subsequent hospitalization, compared with using ED data alone, and to assess that comparison according to the change in alcohol harm rates over time and potential variations within subpopulations.

Design

A retrospective study using linked hospital administrative data to identify ED patients who had subsequent alcohol‐related hospitalizations.

Setting

Western Australia.

Participants

A total of 533 816 Western Australian young people (246 866 females and 286 950 males), aged 12–24 years.

Measurements

Whether or not presentations of young people to ED could be identified as alcohol‐related, and for those that were not, how many had a subsequent alcohol‐related hospitalization. Rates and proportions of alcohol‐related harm for both methods of ascertainment were estimated by sex and Aboriginality across different age groups.

Findings

Alcohol‐related hospitalizations that followed an initial presentation at ED allowed the identification of an additional 19 994 alcohol‐related presentations (95% increase). Linking to additional hospitalization information also resulted in significant variation in alcohol‐related harm trends. In particular, trends in alcohol‐related ED presentations for 21–24‐year‐old males were stable to slightly increasing using only ED data, but decreased after linking with hospitalization data (P < 0.05). Similarly, trends among Aboriginal persons aged 21–24 shifted from increasing using only ED data to being stable in comparison to presentations using subsequent hospitalizations (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Among young people in Western Australia, twice as many emergency department presentations could be identified as being alcohol‐related using diagnosis information from subsequent hospitalizations compared with emergency department data alone. When supplemented with hospitalization data, trends in alcohol‐related harm presentations become significantly different within some subpopulations compared with using emergency department presentation data alone.
Prenatal diagnosis of Miller–Dieker syndrome by chromosomal microarray
Authors: Shi Xiaomei , Huang Weiwei , Lu Jian , He Wei , Liu Qian , Wu Jing
Published: October 2020

Objective

To assess the experience on prenatal diagnosis of Miller–Dieker syndrome (MDS) to further delineate the fetal presentation of this syndrome.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Fetal MDS was diagnosed prenatally by chromosomal microarray (CMA). Clinical data were reviewed for these cases, including maternal characteristics, indications for prenatal diagnosis, sonographic findings, CMA results, and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Four cases were diagnosis as MDS by CMA. The most common sonographic features were ventriculomegaly (3/4) and polyhydramnios (2/4). Deletion sizes ranged from 1.5 to 5.4 Mb. All microdeletions were located at the MDS critical region and showed haploinsufficiency of the YWHAE, CRK, and PAFAH1B1. All patients chose to terminate the pregnancy. Parental chromosome analysis were preformed in three cases and demonstrated that two cases were de novo and one case was caused by inherited derivative chromosomes from parental balanced translocations.

Conclusion

The most common prenatal ultrasound findings of MDS were ventriculomegaly and polyhydramnios. CMA can improve diagnostic precision for detecting MDS.
A role for the MEGF6 gene in predisposition to osteoporosis
Authors: Teerlink Craig C. , Jurynec Michael J. , Hernandez Rolando , Stevens Jeff , Hughes Dana C. , Brunker Cherie P. , Rowe Kerry , Grunwald David J. , Facelli Julio C. , Cannon‐Albright Lisa A.
Published: October 2020

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disorder characterized by deterioration of bone tissue. The set of genetic factors contributing to osteoporosis is not completely specified. High‐risk osteoporosis pedigrees were analyzed to identify genes that may confer susceptibility to disease. Candidate predisposition variants were identified initially by whole exome sequencing of affected‐relative pairs, approximately cousins, from 10 pedigrees. Variants were filtered on the basis of population frequency, concordance between pairs of cousins, affecting a gene associated with osteoporosis, and likelihood to have functionally damaging, pathogenic consequences. Subsequently, variants were tested for segregation in 68 additional relatives of the index carriers. A rare variant in MEGF6 (rs755467862) showed strong evidence of segregation with the disease phenotype. Predicted protein folding indicated the variant (Cys200Tyr) may disrupt structure of an EGF‐like calcium‐binding domain of MEGF6. Functional analyses demonstrated that complete loss of the paralogous genes megf6a and megf6b in zebrafish resulted in significant delay of cartilage and bone formation. Segregation analyses, in silico protein structure modeling, and functional assays support a role for MEGF6 in predisposition to osteoporosis.
Long‐term safety of vedolizumab for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Loftus Edward V. , Feagan Brian G. , Panaccione Remo , Colombel Jean‐Frédéric , Sandborn William J. , Sands Bruce E. , Danese Silvio , D’Haens Geert , Rubin David T. , Shafran Ira , Parfionovas Andrejus , Rogers Raquel , Lirio Richard A. , Vermeire Séverine
Published: October 2020

Background

Vedolizumab, a gut‐selective α4β7 integrin antibody, is approved for moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD).

Aim

To report the final results from the vedolizumab GEMINI long‐term safety (LTS) study.

Methods

The phase 3, open‐label GEMINI LTS study (initiated May 2009) enrolled patients with UC or CD from four prior clinical trials and vedolizumab‐naïve patients. Vedolizumab LTS was evaluated; efficacy and patient‐reported outcomes were exploratory endpoints.

Results

Enrolled patients (UC, n = 894; CD, n = 1349) received vedolizumab 300 mg IV every 4 weeks; median cumulative exposure was 42.4 months (range: 0.03‐112.2) for UC and 31.5 months (range: 0.03‐100.3) for CD. Over 8 years, adverse events (AEs) occurred in 93% (UC) and 96% (CD) of patients, with UC (36%) and CD (35%) exacerbations most frequent. Serious AEs were reported for 31% (UC) and 41% (CD) of patients. Vedolizumab discontinuation due to AEs occurred in 15% (UC) and 17% (CD) of patients. There were no new trends for infections, malignancies, infusion‐related reactions, or hepatic events, and no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Of the ten deaths (UC, n = 4; CD, n = 6), two were considered drug‐related by local investigators (West Nile virus infection‐related encephalitis and hepatocellular carcinoma). Continuous vedolizumab maintained clinical response long‐term, with 33% (UC) and 28% (CD) of patients in clinical remission at 400 treatment weeks.

Conclusions

The safety profile of vedolizumab remains favourable with no unexpected or new safety concerns. These results further establish the safety of vedolizumab and support its long‐term use (NCT00790933/EudraCT 2008‐002784‐14).
Deportation in the Trump Era: Americans Weigh In
Authors: Carlile Alexandra , Galbraith Quinn , Callister Adam
Published: October 2020

Throughout the 2016 presidential campaign and President Trump's subsequent presidency, deportation has become a major issue in the political and public spheres. Based on a survey conducted via Amazon Turk with 516 adult US residents, this study discusses some of the key issues related to deportation in the United States. Our study offers a simple exploration of the American population's current deportation opinions in the aftermath of the Trump election. Our survey results indicate that opinions regarding deportation are strongly tied to political party affiliation and race. As an interesting and unexpected trend, we also found that using story‐based questions to assess opinion on deportation did not have a large effect on the opinion of survey participants. Suggestions for further study are offered in view of the current timeliness of the deportation issue in the American political climate.
A randomized controlled trial with a delayed‐type hypersensitivity model using keyhole limpet haemocyanin to evaluate adaptive immune responses in man
Authors: Saghari Mahdi , Gal Pim , Ziagkos Dimitrios , Burggraaf Jacobus , Powell John F. , Brennan Nuala , Rissmann Robert , van Doorn Martijn B.A. , Moerland Matthijs
Published: October 2020

Aims

Keyhole limpet haemocyanin (KLH) immunization is a clinical model for the evaluation of human antibody responses. The current study evaluated the anti‐KLH antibody response after KLH immunization and the delayed‐type hypersensitivity response following intradermal KLH administration, using objective imaging techniques.

Methods

Healthy male subjects aged 24.5 ± 5.4 years were randomized to intramuscular immunization with 100 μg KLH (n = 12) or placebo (n = 3). Anti‐KLH antibody (Ig) M and IgG titres were determined before and every 7 days after KLH immunization for a total of 28 days. Twenty‐one days after the immunization, all subjects received 1 μg KLH intradermally. Prior to and 2 days after intradermal KLH administration, skin blood perfusion, erythema and oedema were quantified using noninvasive imaging tools. Repeated measures ANCOVAs were used to analyse data.

Results

Anti‐KLH IgM and IgG titres increased after KLH immunization compared to placebo (estimated difference [ED]: 37%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 19–51% and ED: 68%, 95% CI: 56–76% respectively). Upon intradermal KLH administration an increase in skin blood perfusion (ED: 10.9 arbitrary units (AU), 95% CI: 1.4–20.4 AU) and erythema (ED: 0.3 AU, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5 AU) was observed in KLH‐immunized subjects compared to placebo.

Conclusion

KLH immunization followed by intradermal KLH administration resulted in increased anti‐KLH IgM and IgG titres and a delayed‐type hypersensitivity response quantified by an increase in skin blood perfusion and erythema. Using noninvasive imaging tools the KLH model has the potential to serve as an objective tool to study the pharmacodynamics of T‐cell‐directed immunomodulatory drugs.
Effects of habitat transitions on rainforest bird communities across an anthropogenic landscape mosaic
Authors: Huang Guohualing , Catterall Carla P.
Published: October 2020

We compared bird community responses to the habitat transitions of rainforest‐to‐pasture conversion, consequent habitat fragmentation, and post‐agricultural regeneration, across a landscape mosaic of about 600 km2 in the eastern Australian subtropics. Birds were surveyed in seven habitats: continuous mature rainforest; two size classes of mature rainforest fragment (4–21 ha and 1–3 ha); regrowth forest patches dominated by a non‐native tree (2–20 ha, 30–50 years old); two types of isolated mature trees in pasture; and treeless pasture, with six sites per habitat. We compared the avifauna among habitats and among sites, at the levels of species, functional guilds, and community‐wide. Community‐wide species richness and abundance of birds in pasture sites were about one‐fifth and one‐third, respectively, of their values in mature rainforest (irrespective of patch size). Many measured attributes changed progressively across a gradient of increased habitat simplification. Rainforest specialists became less common and less diverse with decreased habitat patch size and vegetation maturity. However, even rainforest fragments of 1–3 ha supported about half of these species. Forest generalist species were largely insensitive to patch size and successional stage. Few species reached their greatest abundance in either small rainforest fragments or regrowth. All pastures were dominated by bird species whose typical native habitats were grassland, wetland, and open eucalypt forest, while pasture trees modestly enhanced local bird communities. Overall, even small scattered patches of mature and regrowth forest contributed substantial bird diversity to local landscapes. Therefore, maximizing the aggregate rainforest area is a useful regional conservation strategy.
The phosphatase PTPN1/PTP1B is a candidate marker of better chemotherapy response in metastatic high‐grade serous carcinoma
Authors: Davidson Ben , Bock Annika Jøntvedt , Holth Arild , Nymoen Dag Andre
Published: October 2020

Objective

To analyse the expression and clinical role of the phosphatase PTPN1 (PTP1B) in serous effusions.

Methods

PTPN1 mRNA expression by quantitative RT‐PCR was analysed in 83 high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) and 15 malignant mesothelioma (MM) effusions. PTP1B and phospho‐PTP1B (pPTP1B) protein expression by immunohistochemistry was analysed in 62 HGSC and 44 MM effusions.

Results

PTPN1 mRNA (P = .048), PTP1B protein (P = .047) and pPTP1B protein (P < .001) were overexpressed in HGSC compared to MM effusions. PTPN1 mRNA was additionally overexpressed in post‐chemotherapy HGSC effusions compared to chemo‐naïve effusions (P = .005). However, pPTP1B protein expression was higher in effusions from patients with FIGO stage III compared to stage IV (P = .006), and higher expressions of both PTPN1 mRNA (P = .041) and PTP1B protein (P = .035) in HGSC effusions were associated with better (complete) chemotherapy response at diagnosis. PTPN1 RNA and protein expression was unrelated to survival in HGSC, whereas a trend for shorter overall survival (P = .06) was found for MM patients whose tumours expressed pPTP1B protein.

Conclusion

PTPN1 is overexpressed in HGSC compared to MM effusions, and may be a marker of better chemotherapy response in the former. Whether PTPN1 activation is informative of adverse outcome in MM merits further investigation.
Metrics for conservation success: Using the “Bird‐Friendliness Index” to evaluate grassland and aridland bird community resilience across the Northern Great Plains ecosystem
Authors: Michel Nicole L. , Burkhalter Curtis , Wilsey Chad B. , Holloran Matt , Holloran Alison , Langham Gary M.
Published: October 2020

Aim

Evaluating conservation effectiveness is essential to protect at‐risk species and to maximize the limited resources available to land managers. Over 60% of North American grassland and aridlands have been lost since the 1800s. Birds in these habitats are among the most imperilled in North America, yet most remaining habitats are unprotected. Despite the need to measure impact, conservation efforts on private and working lands are rarely evaluated, due in part to limited availability of suitable methods.

Location

Northern Great Plains of North America.

Methods

We developed a novel metric to evaluate grassland and aridland bird community response to habitat management, the Bird‐Friendliness Index (BFI), consisting of density estimates of grassland and aridland birds weighted by conservation need and a functional diversity metric to incorporate resiliency. We used the BFI to identify ecologically significant areas for grassland and aridland birds and compared them with other prioritizations. Then, we used the BFI to evaluate the effects of simulated habitat management on grassland and aridland bird communities.

Results

The most resilient bird communities were found in the Prairie Potholes region of Alberta, Saskatchewan and North Dakota and the lowest BFI values in the southern and western regions of the Northern Great Plains. BFI values were significantly greater in areas included in one or more prioritization, and increased with the number of prioritizations an area was included within. BFI values increased in response to simulated bird‐friendly habitat management.

Main conclusions

Our findings suggest that practices recommended for use in bird‐friendly grassland habitat management plans will increase the abundance and resilience of the grassland and aridland bird community and that bird community responses to management will be detected using the BFI. The BFI is a tool by which conservationists and managers can carry out adaptive management and accountable conservation now and into the future.
The PREVIEW intervention study: Results from a 3‐year randomized 2 x 2 factorial multinational trial investigating the role of protein, glycaemic index and physical activity for prevention of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Raben Anne , Vestentoft Pia Siig , Brand‐Miller Jennie , Jalo Elli , Drummen Mathjis , Simpson Liz , Martinez J. Alfredo , Handjieva‐Darlenska Teodora , Stratton Gareth , Huttunen‐Lenz Maija , Lam Tony , Sundvall Jouko , Muirhead Roslyn , Poppitt Sally , Ritz Christian , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Westerterp‐Plantenga Margriet , Taylor Moira A. , Navas‐Carretero Santiago , Handjiev Svetoslav , McNarry Melitta A. , Hansen Sylvia , Råman Laura , Brodie Shannon , Silvestre Marta P. , Adam Tanja C. , Macdonald Ian A. , San‐Cristobal Rodrigo , Boyadjieva Nadka , Mackintosh Kelly A. , Schlicht Wolfgang , Liu Amy , Larsen Thomas M. , Fogelholm Mikael
Published: October 2020

Aim

To compare the impact of two long‐term weight‐maintenance diets, a high protein (HP) and low glycaemic index (GI) diet versus a moderate protein (MP) and moderate GI diet, combined with either high intensity (HI) or moderate intensity physical activity (PA), on the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) after rapid weight loss.

Materials and Methods

A 3‐year multicentre randomized trial in eight countries using a 2 x 2 diet‐by‐PA factorial design was conducted. Eight‐week weight reduction was followed by a 3‐year randomized weight‐maintenance phase. In total, 2326 adults (age 25‐70 years, body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2) with prediabetes were enrolled. The primary endpoint was 3‐year incidence of T2D analysed by diet treatment. Secondary outcomes included glucose, insulin, HbA1c and body weight.

Results

The total number of T2D cases was 62 and the cumulative incidence rate was 3.1%, with no significant differences between the two diets, PA or their combination. T2D incidence was similar across intervention centres, irrespective of attrition. Significantly fewer participants achieved normoglycaemia in the HP compared with the MP group (P < .0001). At 3 years, normoglycaemia was lowest in HP‐HI (11.9%) compared with the other three groups (20.0%‐21.0%, P < .05). There were no group differences in body weight change (−11% after 8‐week weight reduction; −5% after 3‐year weight maintenance) or in other secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

Three‐year incidence of T2D was much lower than predicted and did not differ between diets, PA or their combination. Maintaining the target intakes of protein and GI over 3 years was difficult, but the overall protocol combining weight loss, healthy eating and PA was successful in markedly reducing the risk of T2D. This is an important clinically relevant outcome.
Doctor shopping for methylphenidate as a proxy for misuse and potential abuse in the 67 million inhabitants in France
Authors: Soeiro Thomas , Frauger Élisabeth , Pradel Vincent , Micallef Joëlle
Published: October 2020

Doctor shopping enables subjects to receive more than the prescribed dose out of any medical management, which suggests a search for high doses and makes doctor shopping a relevant proxy for misuse and potential abuse. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and characterize profiles of subjects with doctor‐shopping behavior for methylphenidate in the entire French population. This study is a cross‐sectional study of doctor‐shopping behavior for methylphenidate in France, in 2016, using the Système national des données de santé, and accounting for overlapping prescriptions. Subjects who obtained >840 mg by doctor shopping were defined as subjects with heavy doctor‐shopping behavior, and subjects who obtained >0 mg and ≤840 mg by doctor shopping were defined as subjects with light doctor‐shopping behavior. A total of 63 739 subjects were included, and received 339.6 kg of methylphenidate. Among them, 216 (0.3%) subjects had heavy doctor‐shopping behavior, and 313 (0.5%) subjects had light doctor‐shopping behavior. Compared with subjects with light doctor‐shopping behavior, subjects with heavy doctor‐shopping behavior were older (64% of 30‐ to 49‐year‐old subjects vs. 77% of ≤17‐year‐old subjects; P < 0.001), received more concomitant dispensings of antipsychotics (37% vs. 26%; P = 0.008) and opioid maintenance treatments (50% vs. 6%; P < 0.001), and had more prescribers (4 [IQR = 2‐5] vs. 2 [IQR = 2–3]; P < 0.001). In the French context where prescription and dispensing of methylphenidate are highly regulated and methylphenidate is much less used than in other countries, these results are a warning signal to avoid trivializing methylphenidate in adults.
Challenges in Ki‐67 assessments in pulmonary large‐cell neuroendocrine carcinomas*
Authors: Walts Ann E , Mirocha James M , Marchevsky Alberto M
Published: October 2020

Aims

To gather the best available evidence regarding Ki‐67% values in large‐cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and determine whether certain cut‐off values could serve as a prognostic feature in LCNEC.

Methods and results

Aperio ScanScope AT Turbo, eSlide Manager and ImageScope software (Leica Biosystems) were used to measure Ki‐67% in 77 resected LCNEC diagnosed by World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria. Cases were stratified into six classes by 10% Ki‐67 increments. Using the Kaplan–Meier method, overall (OS) and disease‐free survivals (DFS) were compared by AJCC stage, by six Ki‐67% classes and with Ki‐67% cut‐points ≥20% and ≥40%. Tumours were from 0.9 to 11.5 cm and pathological stages 1–3. The system measured Ki‐67% positivity using 4072–44 533 tumour nuclei per case (mean 16610 ± 8039). Ki‐67% ranged from 1 to 64% (mean = 26%; median = 26%). Only 16 (21%) tumours had Ki‐67% ≥40%. OS ranged from 1 to 298 months (median follow‐up = 25 months). DFS ranged from 1 to 276 months (median follow‐up = 9 months). OS and DFS differed across AJCC stage (overall log‐rank P = 0.038 and P = 0.037). However, neither OS nor DFS significantly correlated with Ki‐67% when six or two classes were used with either ≥20% Ki‐67 or ≥40% Ki‐67 as cut‐point. A literature review identified 14 reports meeting our inclusion criteria with ≥10 LCNEC. Reported Ki‐67% ranged from 2% to 100%. Problems contributing to variability in Ki‐67% measurements are discussed.

Conclusion

Our findings caution against a blanket use of 20%, 40% or other Ki‐67% cut‐points for LCNEC diagnosis or prognostication.
Exploring tasks‐as‐process in Spanish L2 classrooms: Can corpus‐based tasks facilitate language exploration, language use, and engagement?
Authors: Marcos Miguel Nausica
Published: October 2020

This study contributes to the field of corpus‐based language teaching and learning by analyzing interactions observed while learners engaged with tasks requiring the use of corpus tools in two sections of a university level Spanish L2 content course. Tasks‐as‐process (i.e., real‐time interactions between learners and materials) were analyzed for (1) divergence from teacher's intent (the task‐as‐workplan), (2) completion, (3) off‐task behavior, and (4) L1 use. Learners showed a relative fidelity to the task‐as‐workplan. Difficulties completing tasks were due to difficulties hypothesizing about language use. Off‐task behavior was motivated by learners’ social relationships. The L1 was used to explore language and to socialize. In general, this data illustrates that corpus‐based tasks do generate communication, exploration, and engagement in the L2 classroom.
MicroRNA‐148a‐3p suppresses epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and stemness properties via Wnt1‐mediated Wnt/β‐catenin pathway in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Fu Xiaowei , Hong Le , Yang Zhengjiang , Tu Yi , Xin Wanpeng , Zha Ming , Tu Shuju , Sun Gen , Li Yong , Xiao Weidong
Published: October 2020

Although miR‐148a‐3p has been reported to function as a tumour suppressor in various cancers, the molecular mechanism of miR‐148a‐3p in regulating epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness properties of pancreatic cancer (PC) cells remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we demonstrated that miR‐148a‐3p expression was remarkably down‐regulated in PC tissues and cell lines. Moreover, low expression of miR‐148a‐3p was associated with poorer overall survival (OS) in patients with PC. In vitro, gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function experiments showed that miR‐148a‐3p suppressed EMT and stemness properties as well as the proliferation, migration and invasion of PC cells. A dual‐luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that Wnt1 was a direct target of miR‐148a‐3p, and its expression was inversely associated with miR‐148a‐3p in PC tissues. Furthermore, miR‐148a‐3p suppressed the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway via down‐regulation of Wnt1. The effects of ectopic miR‐148a‐3p were rescued by Wnt1 overexpression. These biological functions of miR‐148a‐3p in PC were also confirmed in a nude mouse xenograft model. Taken together, these findings suggest that miR‐148a‐3p suppresses PC cell proliferation, invasion, EMT and stemness properties via inhibiting Wnt1‐mediated Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and could be a potential prognostic biomarker as well as a therapeutic target in PC.
Characteristics of expert nurses' assessment of insertion sites for peripheral venous catheters in elderly adults with hard‐to‐find veins
Authors: Masamoto Tsuneko , Yano Rika
Published: October 2020

Aim

To clarify the characteristics of expert nurses' assessments when selecting an insertion site for a peripheral venous catheter (PVC).

Methods

Participants were 11 competent (control group) and 13 expert nurses. Using a simulated patient, we recorded the procedures participants followed when selecting a site for a PVC insertion. The researchers interviewed the nurses after the procedure by asking targeted questions about the site selection to clarify the factors influencing that selection. During the interview, a video of that nurse's procedure was observed, and each step performed during the procedure was investigated.

Results

We identified three assessment characteristics specific to expert nurses that influenced their PVC site selection: (a) focusing on a patient's unique characteristics and choosing the appropriate procedure for that individual; (b) avoiding complications and paying attention to the patient's daily self‐care needs; and (c) carefully considering the patient's fear and fatigue during site selection and catheter insertion. Other assessments, based on the general knowledge and skill acquired by nurses in selecting a PVC site, were common to both groups: arm selection based on the patient's preference and site selection to avoid nerve injuries or complications. The control group's approach was assessed on the basis of their confidence in selecting a site for a PVC insertion.

Conclusions

Expert nurses assessed the patient's individual characteristics and daily self‐care needs and helped mitigate the patient's anxiety. Our findings provide a basis for educational programs that share how expert nurses assess sites for a PVC insertion.
Recent advances targeting C‐C chemokine receptor type 2 for liver diseases in monocyte/macrophage
Authors: Li Min , Chen Liu , Gao Yue , Li Mengyuan , Wang Xiaosheng , Qiang Lei , Wang Xiaoping
Published: October 2020

Liver plays a critical role in metabolism, nutrient storage and detoxification. Emergency signals or appropriate immune response leads to pathological inflammation and breaks the steady state when liver dysfunction appears, which makes body more susceptible to chronic liver infection, autoimmune diseases and tumour. Compelling proof has illustrated the non‐redundant importance of C‐C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2), one of G‐protein‐coupled receptors, in different diseases. Selectively expressed on the surface of cells, CCR2 is involved in various signalling pathways and regulates the migration of cells. Especially, a peculiar role of CCR2 has been identified within decades in the onset and progression of hepatic diseases, which led to particular focusing on CCR2 as a new therapeutic and diagnostic target for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the effect of CCR2 in monocytes/macrophages on liver diseases. The application and translation of the decades of discoveries into therapies promise novel approaches in the treatment of liver disease.
Improvement of sexuality after hepatitis C cure with direct acting antivirals
Authors: Mariño Zoe , Rodríguez‐Tajes Sergio , Bartrés Concepció , Nácar Loreto , Lens Sabela , Navinés Ricard , Cavero Myriam , Londoño María C. , Sastre Lydia , Pocurull Anna , Dafieno Angella , Martín‐Santos Rocío , Forns Xavier
Published: October 2020

Despite rarely assessed, sexuality is a relevant domain in Quality of Life. We prospectively evaluated the impact of direct‐acting antiviral therapy on sexuality in a cohort of 186 patients with chronic hepatitis C (HCV). Sexual dysfunction was assessed by validated scales CSFQ‐14/CSFQ‐VAS at baseline and one year after treatment finalization. Median age was 55 years and 87% had mild liver disease. Basal prevalence of sexual dysfunction (62%) and fear of HCV transmission (25%) were high. After HCV cure, both sexual dysfunction prevalence and CSFQ‐VAS improved (P = .058 and P < .01, respectively), and fear of HCV transmission dropped to 16% (P = .02). These changes were especially relevant in young men (<55), where sexual dysfunction decreased from 48.6% to 29.7% (P = .04) and among non‐depressed patients in whom sexual dysfunction decreased from 54.6% to 47% (P < .01). Age and major depression remained as independent factors of sexual dysfunction persistence after HCV cure. Our data suggest that HCV eradication is associated with an improvement in sexuality, in those patients without depression.
Coming from a world without objects
Authors: Hildebrandt Frauke , Glauer Ramiro , Kachel Gregor
Published: October 2020

While research on object individuation assumes that even very young children are able to perceive objects as particulars, we argue that the results of relevant studies can be explained in terms of feature discrimination. We propose that children start out navigating the world with a feature‐based ontology and only later become able to individuate objects spatiotemporally. Furthermore, object individuation is a cognitively demanding achievement resting on a uniquely human form of enculturation, namely the acquisition of deictic demonstratives. We conclude by outlining empirical expectations for operationalizations of our proposal.
The putative sensor histidine kinase PhcK is required for the full expression of phcA encoding the global transcriptional regulator to drive the quorum‐sensing circuit of Ralstonia solanacearum strain OE1‐1
Authors: Senuma Wakana , Takemura Chika , Hayashi Kazusa , Ishikawa Shiho , Kiba Akinori , Ohnishi Kouhei , Kai Kenji , Hikichi Yasufumi
Published: October 2020

A gram‐negative plant‐pathogenic bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum strain OE1‐1 produces and extracellularly secretes methyl 3‐hydroxymyristate (3‐OH MAME), and senses the chemical as a quorum‐sensing (QS) signal, activating QS. During QS a functional global transcriptional regulator PhcA, through the 3‐OH MAME‐dependent two‐component system, induces the production of virulence factors including a major extracellular polysaccharide EPS I and ralfuranone. To elucidate the mechanisms of phcA regulation underlying the QS system, among Tn5‐mutants from the strain OE1‐1, we identified a mutant of RSc1351 gene (phcK), encoding a putative sensor histidine kinase, that exhibited significantly decreased QS‐dependent cell aggregation. We generated a phcK‐deletion mutant (ΔphcK) that produced significantly less EPS I and ralfuranone than the wild‐type strain OE1‐1. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR assays showed that the phcA expression level was significantly down‐regulated in the ΔphcK mutant but not in other QS mutants. The transcriptome data generated with RNA sequencing technology revealed that the expression levels of 88.2% of the PhcA‐positively regulated genes were down‐regulated in the ΔphcK mutant, whereas the expression levels of 85.9% of the PhcA‐negatively regulated genes were up‐regulated. Additionally, the native phcK‐expressing complemented ΔphcK strain and the ΔphcK mutant transformed with phcA controlled by a constitutive promoter recovered their cell aggregation phenotypes. Considered together, the results of this study indicate that phcK is required for full phcA expression, thereby driving the QS circuit of R. solanacearum strain OE1‐1. This is the first report of the phcA transcriptional regulation of R. solanacearum.
Mechanical thrombectomy in a patient with granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Oomura Masahiro , Usami Toshihiko , Hattori Hideo , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: October 2020

We report a patient with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) developing a major ischemic stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy. A 65‐year‐old man developed an occlusion of the left internal carotid artery (ICA) during admission for evaluation of GPA. He was treated with intravenous thrombolytic therapy followed by mechanical thrombectomy. This is the first report of a GPA treated with mechanical thrombectomy.
Prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among older adults: A cross‐sectional population‐based study
Authors: Thapa Deependra K. , Visentin Denis C. , Kornhaber Rachel , Cleary Michelle
Published: October 2020

Despite population aging and the increase in mental health problems, studies on the mental health of older people in developing countries are lacking. This population‐based cross‐sectional study estimated the prevalence and associated factors for depression, anxiety and stress symptoms among older adults in Nepal. Community‐dwelling older adults (N = 794) were interviewed using a questionnaire which consisted of the 21‐item Depression Anxiety Stress Scales; and a wide range of sociodemographic, health‐related, and lifestyle characteristics; functional ability, social support, participation in social activities, and adverse life events. The prevalence of symptoms was 15.4% for depression, 18.1% for anxiety, and 12.1% for stress. Risk factors for symptoms included female gender, working in agriculture, lower household wealth, perceived poor health, smoking, chronic conditions, migration of adult children, and exposure to adverse life events. Receiving an allowance, physical exercise, functional ability, social support, and participation in social activities were found to have protective effects. The findings indicate the need for community‐based interventions, including appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, and mental health promotion programs targeting the risk and protective factors.
Shortening the generation cycle in faba bean (Vicia faba) by application of cytokinin and cold stress to assist speed breeding
Authors: Mobini Saeid , Khazaei Hamid , Warkentin Thomas D. , Vandenberg Albert
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to reduce the length of the breeding cycle for faba bean by accelerating seed setting. We examined the mode and time of exogenous 6‐benzylaminopurine (BAP) (cytokinin) application, and cold treatments and their combinations in two faba bean genotypes. Acropetal node number of pod and seed set and pollen viability were recorded during the experiments. Application of BAP improved pollen germination. The application of 10–5 M BAP 4 days after flowering increased seed set at the lower nodes. Cold treatment (8/4°C day/night for 2 days) after the onset of flowering induced the formation of more pods and faster pod set compared to the non‐cold treatment. The time to first seed was significantly reduced, and pollen viability was increased in plants exposed to cold treatment. Increased pollen viability also showed a significant positive correlation with seed setting. The combinations of 10–5 BAP and cold treatment together had similar and independent effects. These results will accelerate plant breeding in faba bean by providing additional tools for reducing generation time.
Early surveillance biopsy utilization and management of pediatric renal allograft acute T cell–mediated rejection in Canadian centers: Observations from the PROBE multicenter cohort study
Authors: Hoffmann Adam Jeffrey , Gibson Ian W. , Ho Julie , Nickerson Peter , Rush David , Sharma Atul , Wishart David , Blydt‐Hansen Tom David
Published: October 2020

Background

Early TCMR surveillance with protocol kidney biopsy is used differentially among pediatric kidney transplant centers. Little has been reported about actual center‐based differences, and this variability may influence TCMR ascertainment, treatment, and monitoring more broadly.

Methods

Data from the PROBE multicenter study were used to identify patients from centers conducting ESB or LSIB. ESB was defined as >50% of patients having at least 1 surveillance biopsy in the first 9 months. Patients were compared for number of biopsies, rejection episodes, treatment, and follow‐up monitoring.

Results

A total of 261 biopsies were performed on 97 patients over 1‐2 years of follow‐up. A total of 228 (87%) of biopsies were performed in ESB centers. Compared to LSIB centers, ESB centers had 7‐fold more episodes of TCMR diagnosed on any biopsy [0.8 ± 1.2 vs 0.1 ± 0.4; P < .001] and a 3‐fold higher rate from indication biopsies [0.3 ± 0.9 vs 0.1 ± 0.3; P = .04]. The proportion of rejection treatment varied based on severity: Banff borderline i1t1 (40%);>i1t1 and < Banff 1A (86%); and ≥ Banff 1A (100%). Biopsies for follow‐up were performed after treatment in 80% of cases (n = 28) of rejection almost exclusively at ESB centers, with 17 (61%) showing persistence of TCMR (≥i1t1).

Conclusions

Practice variation exists across Canadian pediatric renal transplant centers with ESB centers identifying more episodes of rejection. Additionally, treatment of Banff borderline is not universal and varies with severity regardless of center type. Lastly, follow‐up biopsies are performed inconsistently and invariably show persistence of rejection.
Sustaining a nurse‐led community partnership to promote environmental justice
Authors: Dressel Anne , Bell‐Calvin Jean , Lee Erin , Hermanns Laura , Anderko Laura , Swaney Vicki , Steinberg Joshua , Hawkins Maren , Yeldell Sally
Published: October 2020

The Westlawn Partnership for a Healthier Environment (WPHE) is a longstanding group of community stakeholders that was formed over a decade ago to identify, prioritize, and address environmental health (EH) concerns in a low‐income, predominantly African American, urban neighborhood, which faces a disproportionate burden of EH risks, particularly asthma. Launched by the University of Wisconsin‐Milwaukee College of Nursing, which established a nurse‐managed health center within the community 30 years ago, WPHE utilized the Protocol of Assessing Community Excellence in Environment Health methodology to develop, implement, and sustain the partnership. WPHE implemented programs for Healthy Homes, Healthy Day Cares, and bicycling, and made system and infrastructure changes within the community to address the top identified EH concerns: indoor and outdoor air pollution, mold exposure, access to safe and healthy food, and pesticide exposure. WPHE's efforts have resulted in significant local, state, and national policy impacts to promote environmental justice. This brief report shares how the partnership was formed, its priorities, major activities and accomplishments, and insights into sustaining a community‐based EH partnership, including recommendations for the key role that public health nurses can play to promote environmental justice.
Does Tanzania's Development Trajectory Borrow from the China Model?
Authors: Kinyondo Abel A.
Published: October 2020

Tanzania has experienced a remarkable economic growth averaging 6 percent over the past two decades. While this growth is usually associated with the liberalization of the economy that began in the mid‐1980s, the influence of African Socialism in Tanzania cannot be overemphasized. Specifically, Tanzania has mostly been a developmental state focusing on infrastructural push. This article qualitatively analyzes rhetoric from senior political and government figures to detect if there is a political myth underpinning the existence of the “China Model” in Tanzania. Results show that, while for the past two decades Tanzania's development trajectory has been partially influenced by the China model, the China case is unique and thus its model may not be successfully replicated in Tanzania. I thus recommend a home‐grown model if sustainable economic development has to be achieved in Tanzania.

Related Articles (in this Special Issue)

Davidsson, Simon. 2020. “Modeling the Impact of a Model: The (Non)Relationship between China's Economic Rise and African Democracy.”Politics & Policy48 (5).

Duggan, Niall. 2020. “China – The Champion of the Developing World: A Study of China's new Development Model and its Role in Changing Global Economic Governance.”Politics & Policy48 (5).

Ganda, Willie D. 2020. “The China Model in Zimbabwe: The Belt and Road Initiative and Beyond.”Politics & Policy48 (5).
The Efficacy of Simultaneously Training 2 Motion Targets During a Squat Using Auditory Feedback
Authors: Hale Rena F. , Dorgo Sandor , Gonzalez Roger V. , Hausselle Jerome
Published: October 2020

Auditory feedback is a simple, low-cost training solution that can be used in rehabilitation, motor learning, and performance development. The use has been limited to the instruction of a single kinematic or kinetic target. The goal of this study was to determine if auditory feedback could be used to simultaneously train 2 lower-extremity parameters to perform a bodyweight back squat. A total of 42 healthy, young, recreationally active males participated in a 4-week training program to improve squat biomechanics. The Trained group (n = 22) received 4 weeks of auditory feedback. Feedback focused on knee flexion angle and center of pressure under the foot at maximum squat depth. The Control group (n = 20) performed squats without feedback. Subjects were tested pre, post, and 1 week after training. The Trained group achieved average target knee flexion angle within 1.73 (1.31) deg (P < .001) after training and 5.36 (3.29) deg (P < .01) at retention. While achieving target knee flexion angle, the Trained group maintained target center of pressure (P < .001). The Control group improved knee range of motion, but were not able to achieve both parameter targets at maximum squat depth (P < .90). Results from this study demonstrate that auditory feedback is an effective way to train 2 independent biomechanical targets simultaneously.
Effect of Grade and Surface Type on Peak Tibial Acceleration in Trained Distance Runners
Authors: Waite Nathan , Goetschius John , Lauver Jakob D.
Published: October 2020

Runners experience repeated impact forces during training, and the culmination of these forces can contribute to overuse injuries. The purpose of this study was to compare peak vertical tibial acceleration (TA) in trained distance runners on 3 surface types (grass, asphalt, and concrete) and 3 grades (incline, decline, and level). During visit 1, subjects completed a 1-mile time trial to determine their pace for all running trials: 80% (5%) of the average time trial velocity. During visit 2, subjects were outfitted with a skin-mounted accelerometer and performed 18 separate running trials during which peak TA was assessed during the stance phase. Each subject ran 2 trials for each condition with 2 minutes of rest between trials. Peak TA was different between decline (8.04 [0.12] g) and incline running (7.31 [0.35] g; P = .020). On the level grade, peak TA was greater during grass (8.22 [1.22] g) compared with concrete (7.47 [1.65] g; P = .017). On the incline grade, grass (7.68 [1.44] g) resulted in higher peak TA than asphalt (6.99 [1.69] g; P = .030). These results suggest that under certain grade conditions grass may result in higher TA compared with either concrete or asphalt.
Bimodal neuromodulation combining sound and tongue stimulation reduces tinnitus symptoms in a large randomized clinical study
Authors: Conlon Brendan , Langguth Berthold , Hamilton Caroline , Hughes Stephen , Meade Emma , Connor Ciara O , Schecklmann Martin , Hall Deborah A. , Vanneste Sven , Leong Sook Ling , Subramaniam Thavakumar , D’Arcy Shona , Lim Hubert H.
Published: October 2020

Noninvasive bimodal neuromodulation reduces tinnitus symptom severity within 12 weeks of treatment for up to 12 months after completing treatment.
Stimulating brain drug delivery
Authors: Airan Raag
Published: October 2020

Neural activity affects how the blood-brain barrier regulates influx and efflux of agents between the blood and the central nervous system.
Outsourcing glucose management to AI
Authors: Ankrum James
Published: October 2020

An automated decision support tool could expand access to intensive insulin therapy for patients with type 1 diabetes.
Disparate Effects of Metformin on Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Mice
Authors: Sathkumara Harindra D. , Hansen Karyna , Miranda-Hernandez Socorro , Govan Brenda , Rush Catherine M. , Henning Lars , Ketheesan Natkunam , Kupz Andreas
Published: October 2020

Comorbid type 2 diabetes poses a great challenge to the global control of tuberculosis. Here, we assessed the efficacy of metformin (MET), an antidiabetic drug, in mice infected with a very low dose of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. In contrast to diabetic mice, infected nondiabetic mice that received the same therapeutic concentration of MET presented with significantly higher disease burden. This warrants further studies to investigate the disparate efficacy of MET against tuberculosis in diabetic and nondiabetic individuals.
Clinical Evaluation of BD Veritor SARS-CoV-2 Point-of-Care Test Performance Compared to PCR-Based Testing and versus the Sofia 2 SARS Antigen Point-of-Care Test
Authors: Young Stephen , Taylor Stephanie N. , Cammarata Catherine L. , Varnado Katey G. , Roger-Dalbert Celine , Montano Amanda , Griego-Fullbright Christen , Burgard Cameron , Fernandez Catherine , Eckert Karen , Andrews Jeffrey C. , Ren Huimiao , Allen Joseph , Ackerman Ronald , Cooper Charles K.
Published: October 2020

The clinical performance of the BD Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen (Veritor), a chromatographic immunoassay used for SARS-CoV-2 point-of-care testing, was evaluated using nasal specimens from individuals with COVID-19 symptoms. Two studies were completed to determine clinical performance. In the first study, nasal specimens and either nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal specimens from 251 participants with COVID-19 symptoms (≤7 days from symptom onset [DSO], ≥18 years of age) were utilized to compare Veritor with the Lyra SARS-CoV-2 PCR assay (Lyra).
When Should Asymptomatic Persons Be Tested for COVID-19?
Authors: Schuetz Audrey N. , Hemarajata Peera , Mehta Ninad , Campbell Sheldon , Mitchell Stephanie , Palavecino Elizabeth , Butler-Wu Susan , Miller Melissa B.
Published: October 2020

On 24 August 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its website to highlight that asymptomatic individuals, even those with exposure to a COVID-19-positive contact, do not necessarily need to be tested unless they have medical conditions associated with increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. The CDC subsequently updated its guidance on 19 September 2020 to support testing of asymptomatic persons, including close contacts of persons with documented SARS-CoV-2 infection.