bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory Filtering and Sensory Memory in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Melara Robert D. , Root James C. , Bibi Raquel , Ahles Tim A.
Published: November 2020

Survivors of breast and other cancers often report protracted difficulty in performing tasks involving concentration and memory, even years after the completion of treatment. The current study investigated whether cancer and treatment history is associated with deficits in sensory filtering (gating out) and sensory memory (gating in), early processes in stimulus processing that may contribute to difficulties in later remembering. A group of breast cancer survivors and age-matched healthy control participants (mean age 54 years) underwent testing with paired-click and oddball tasks while electroencephalographic (EEG) signals were recorded. The survivors showed relatively poor inhibition of redundant sensory stimulation (P50 suppression). Dipole source analysis localized the survivors’ impairment to the hippocampus, with preservation of function in gating mechanisms of the frontal lobe and auditory cortex. Survivors also showed disruption to sensory memory processes needed to register novel information in an otherwise uniform auditory environment (mismatch negativity). The findings suggest that survivors experience deficits in early, automatic mechanisms of sensory gating, which may trigger a cascade of later perceived attentional and memory deficits. If our account is accurate, ideal therapies might aim to restore early inhibitory processes, such as those gauged by P50 suppression.
Impact of baseline COPD symptom severity on the benefit from dual versus mono-bronchodilators: an analysis of the EMAX randomised controlled trial
Authors: Vogelmeier Claus F. , Kerwin Edward M. , Bjermer Leif H. , Tombs Lee , Jones Paul W. , Boucot Isabelle H. , Naya Ian P. , Lipson David A. , Compton Chris , Barnes Neil , Maltais François
Published: November 2020

Rationale:

Symptom relief is a key treatment goal in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, there are limited data available on the response to bronchodilator therapy in patients at low risk of exacerbations with different levels of symptom severity. This study compared treatment responses in patients with a range of symptom severities as indicated by baseline COPD assessment test (CAT) scores.

Methods:

The 24-week EMAX trial evaluated the benefits of umeclidinium/vilanterol versus umeclidinium or salmeterol in symptomatic patients at low exacerbation risk who were not receiving inhaled corticosteroids. This analysis assessed lung function, symptoms, health status, and short-term deterioration outcomes in subgroups defined by a baseline CAT score [<20 ( post hoc) and ⩾20 (pre-specified)]. Outcomes were also assessed using post hoc fractional polynomial modelling with continuous transformations of baseline CAT score covariates.

Results:

Of the intent-to-treat population ( n = 2425), 56% and 44% had baseline CAT scores of <20 and ⩾20, respectively. Umeclidinium/vilanterol demonstrated favourable improvements compared with umeclidinium and salmeterol for the majority of outcomes irrespective of the baseline CAT score, with the greatest improvements generally observed in patients with CAT scores <20. Fractional polynomial analyses revealed consistent improvements in lung function, symptoms and reduction in rescue medication use with umeclidinium/vilanterol versus umeclidinium and salmeterol across a range of CAT scores, with the largest benefits seen in patients with CAT scores of approximately 10–21.

Conclusions:

Patients with symptomatic COPD benefit similarly from dual bronchodilator treatment with umeclidinium/vilanterol. Fractional polynomial analyses demonstrated the greatest treatment differences favouring dual therapy in patients with a CAT score <20, although benefits were seen up to scores of 30. This suggests that dual bronchodilation may be considered as initial therapy for patients across a broad range of symptom severities, not only those with severe symptoms (CAT ⩾20). Trial registration: NCT03034915, 2016-002513-22 (EudraCT number). The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Post-Release Monitoring Diet Quality and Nutritional Status of Reintroduced Burchell’s Zebra and Blue Wildebeest in Maputo Special Reserve, Mozambique
Authors: Mandlate Luís Jr. Comissario , Rodrigues Flávio H. G.
Published: November 2020

The reintroduction of wild animal species into conservations areas is widely used to restore populations of species endangered with extinction. The assessment of the quality of the diet and the nutritional status of the animals is crucial to the success of herbivore reintroduction programs, given that adequate nutrition is essential to ensure the survival and fertility of ungulates. Given this, the present study investigated the quality of the diet and nutritional status of Burchell’s zebra ( Equus burchelli, Smuts 1832) and blue wildebeest ( Connochaetes taurinus, Burchell 1823) reintroduced into Maputo Special Reserve (MSR), in southern Mozambique. The study was conducted between July 2016 and June 2017, and the data were collected through direct observation, by driving a vehicle along the roads within the reserve that pass through the vegetation cover where zebra and wildebeest are known to occur most frequently. The composition of the diet and specific feature of the grass grazed by the two species, such as greenness (an indication of food quality) were assessed. Crude fecal protein and phosphorus were determined to evaluate the nutritional status of the two herbivore species. Both herbivores were pure grazers, consuming a diet composed entirely (100%) of grass. Aristida barbicollis was the principal component of the diets of both zebra and wildebeest and both species grazed almost entirely on green grass (91–100% of greenness). However, wildebeest consumed significantly more green grass (which has a better nutrient content) than zebra, which tolerated a considerably larger proportion of browner grass in both seasons. The levels of crude protein and phosphorus in the zebra and wildebeest fecal samples were not below threshold of nutritional stress recommended for large southern African herbivores, which indicates that neither the zebra nor the wildebeest populations in MSR are undernourished at the present time and that the quality of the forage found in the study area is not a factor limiting the persistence of the reintroduced populations of either species.
The ‘patient voice’: patients who experience antidepressant withdrawal symptoms are often dismissed, or misdiagnosed with relapse, or a new medical condition
Authors: Guy Anne , Brown Marion , Lewis Stevie , Horowitz Mark
Published: November 2020

Background:

Stopping antidepressants commonly causes withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and long-lasting. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance has been recently updated to reflect this; however, for many years withdrawal (discontinuation) symptoms were characterised as ‘usually mild and self-limiting over a week’. Consequently, withdrawal symptoms might have been misdiagnosed as relapse of an underlying condition, or new onset of another medical illness, but this has never been studied.

Method:

This paper outlines the themes emerging from 158 respondents to an open invitation to describe the experience of prescribed psychotropic medication withdrawal for petitions sent to British parliaments. The accounts include polypharmacy (mostly antidepressants and benzodiazepines) but we focus on antidepressants because of the relative lack of awareness about their withdrawal effects compared with benzodiazepines. Mixed method analysis was used, including a ‘lean thinking’ approach to evaluate common failure points.

Results:

The themes identified include: a lack of information given to patients about the risk of antidepressant withdrawal; doctors failing to recognise the symptoms of withdrawal; doctors being poorly informed about the best method of tapering prescribed medications; patients being diagnosed with relapse of the underlying condition or medical illnesses other than withdrawal; patients seeking advice outside of mainstream healthcare, including from online forums; and significant effects on functioning for those experiencing withdrawal.

Discussion:

Several points for improvement emerge: the need for updating of guidelines to help prescribers recognise antidepressant withdrawal symptoms and to improve informed consent processes; greater availability of non-pharmacological options for managing distress; greater availability of best practice for tapering medications such as antidepressants; and the vital importance of patient feedback. Although the patients captured in this analysis might represent medication withdrawal experiences that are more severe than average, they highlight the current inadequacy of health care systems to recognise and manage prescribed drug withdrawal, and patient feedback in general.
Inter and Intra-Rater Reliability of Using Computed Tomography to Assess Prosthesis Position Post Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Kelly David A , Karamfiles Sharon J , Coward Jonathan C , Goebel Sven P
Published: November 2020

Background

Computer models and cadaveric studies have demonstrated that humeral version has a significant impact on the impingement, stability, and range of motion of the prosthetic shoulder joint. Computed tomography (CT) has been used to measure native humeral version, however the reliability of using CT to measure humeral version post reverse total shoulder replacement has not yet been established.

Aims

To investigate the inter and intra-rater reliability of using CT to assess the post-operative humeral version following shoulder arthroplasty.

Methodology

Patients underwent a limited CT scan of the operative limb; positioned and protocoled by one consultant radiologist on one machine. The humeral version of the prostheses was calculated individually by two experienced, board certified consultant radiologists. They were blinded to each other’s measurements. The humeral version was calculated using the epicondylar axis.

Data

Overall, 20 shoulders are included; 12 females (60%), and 10 left-sided (50%). The median anteversion was 0° (range 33° retroversion–27° anteversion; IQ 6.75° retroversion–4.75° anteversion). The inter-rater reliability was 0.985 (95% CI: 0.964–0.994). The intra-rater reliability for radiologist A was 0.988 (95% CI: 0.969–0.995), and the intra-rater reliability for radiologist B was 0.976 (95% CI: 0.942–0.991).

Conclusion

The use of post operative CT has excellent inter and intra-rater reliability in measuring humeral version following shoulder arthroplasty. This study will facilitate future research regarding impact of the humeral version on patient outcomes.
Handling challenging questions in the management of chronic myeloid leukemia: when is it safe to stop tyrosine kinase inhibitors?
Authors: Rea Delphine
Published: November 2020

The paradigm for managing patients with chronic myeloid leukemia is evolving. In the recent past, restoring a normal life expectancy while patients are receiving never-ending targeted therapy with BCR–ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors through prevention of progression to blast phase and mitigation of iatrogenic risks was considered the best achievable outcome. Now, long-term treatment-free remission with continued response off tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy is recognized as the most optimal benefit of treatment. Indeed, numerous independent clinical trials provided solid proof that tyrosine kinase inhibitor discontinuation was feasible in patients with deep and sustained molecular responses. This article discusses when tyrosine kinase inhibitors may be safely stopped in clinical practice on the basis of the best and latest available evidence.
Social deprivation in Scottish populations with pulmonary hypertension secondary to connective tissue disease and chronic thromboembolic disease
Authors: McGettrick Michael , McCaughey Paul , MacLellan Alexander , Brewis Melanie , Church A. Colin , Johnson Martin K.
Published: November 2020

Socioeconomic factors have been shown to have an adverse impact on survival in some respiratory diseases. Studies from the USA and China have suggested worse survival in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension in low socioeconomic groups. We looked at the effect of deprivation on the outcomes in patients with connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary hypertension (CTDPH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) in a retrospective observational study.

Data were obtained from 232 patients with CTDPH and 263 with CTEPH who were under the care of the Scottish Pulmonary Vascular Unit, Glasgow, UK. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to assess for a relationship between deprivation and survival.

We found no difference in survival across deprivation quintiles in the CTDPH (p=0.26) or CTEPH cohorts (p=0.18). We constructed multivariate models using enrolment time, age, sex and body mass index, with no significant change in findings. There was no difference between expected and observed population distribution of CTDPH (p=0.98) and CTEPH (p=0.36). Whilst there was no difference in presenting functional class in the CTDPH group, the CTEPH patients in more deprived quintiles presented in a worse functional class (p=0.032). There was no difference between quintiles of CTEPH patients who had distal or proximal disease (p=0.75), or who underwent surgery (p=0.5).

Increased social deprivation is not associated with worse survival in patients with CTDPH and CTEPH managed in the Scottish National Health Service. Whilst there is no evidence of referral barriers in CTDPH, this may not be the case in CTEPH, as lower deprivation was associated with worse functional class at presentation.
Evaluation of Suzor forceps training by studying obstetric anal sphincter injuries: a retrospective study
Authors: COSTE MAZEAU Perrine , BOUKEFFA Nedjma , TICAUD BOILEAU Nathalie , HUET Samantha , TRAVERSE Maud , EYRAUD Jean-Luc , LAGUERRE Alexine , CATALAN Cyrille , RIEDL Cécilia
Published: November 2020

Background

Instrumental deliveries are an unavoidable part of obstetric practice. Dedicated training is needed for each instrument. To identify when a trainee resident can be entrusted with instrumental deliveries by Suzor forceps by studying obstetric anal sphincter injuries.

Methods

A French retrospective observational study of obstetric anal sphincter injuries due to Suzor forceps deliveries performed by trainee residents was conducted from November 2008 to November 2016 at Limoges University Hospital. Perineal lesion risk factors were studied. Sequential use of a vacuum extractor and then forceps was also analyzed.

Results

Twenty-one residents performed 1530 instrumental deliveries, which included 1164 (76.1%) using forceps and 89 (5.8%) with sequential use of a vacuum extractor and then forceps. Third and fourth degree perineal tears were diagnosed in 82 patients (6.5%). Residents caused fewer obstetric anal sphincter injuries after 23.82 (+/− 0.8) deliveries by forceps (p = 0.0041), or after 2.36 (+/− 0.7) semesters of obstetrical experience (p = 0.0007). No obese patient (body mass index> 30) presented obstetric anal sphincter injuries (p = 0.0013). There were significantly fewer obstetric anal sphincter injuries after performance of episiotomy (p <  0.0001), and more lesions in the case of the occipito-sacral position (p = 0.028). Analysis of sequential instrumentation did not find any additional associated risk.

Conclusion

Training in the use of Suzor forceps requires extended mentoring in order to reduce obstetric anal sphincter injuries. A stable level of competence was found after the execution of at least 24 forceps deliveries or after 3 semesters (18 months) of obstetrical experience.
The impact of TSH levels on clinical outcomes 14 days after frozen-thawed embryo transfer
Authors: Zhang Yuchao , Wu Wenbin , Liu Yanli , Guan Yichun , Wang Xingling , Jia Liting
Published: November 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of TSH levels on clinical outcomes 14 days after frozen-thawed embryo transfer.

Methods

Blood samples were collected on the first visit to our department and 14 days after embryo transfer. Women were divided into three groups based on D14 TSH levels, which were compared to basal TSH levels in groups with different clinical outcomes. TSH levels between pregnant and nonpregnant women were also compared.

Results

The clinical pregnancy rate in women with lower TSH levels 14 days after transfer was slightly but significantly lower (56%, P = 0.05) compared to those with higher TSH levels. Furthermore, TSH levels were significantly elevated 14 days after transfer compared to basal TSH levels in pregnant women and in women who successfully became pregnant (P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Elevated TSH levels 14 days after embryo transfer compared to basal TSH levels seem to play a protective role and predict favorable clinical outcomes under specific conditions.
A nuclear transport-related gene signature combined with IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion better predicts the prognosis of glioma patients
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Lan Yang , Wang Lihong , Ge Jia , Wang Jiao , Liu Feng , He Zhicheng , Zhang Hua , Luo Min , Lin Dandan , Tan Yaoyao , Xu Yuanyuan , Luo Tao
Published: November 2020

Background

The nuclear transport system has been proposed to be indispensable for cell proliferation and invasion in cancers. Prognostic biomarkers and molecular targets in nuclear transport systems have been developed. However, no systematic analysis of genes related to nuclear transport in gliomas has been performed. An integrated prognostic classification involving mutation and nuclear transport gene signatures has not yet been explored.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed gliomas from a training cohort (TCGA dataset, n = 660) and validation cohort (CGGA dataset, n = 668) to develop a prognostic nuclear transport gene signature and generate an integrated classification system. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that glioblastoma (GBM) was mainly enriched in nuclear transport progress compared to lower-grade glioma (LGG). Then, we developed a nuclear transport risk score (NTRS) for gliomas with a training cohort. NTRS was significantly correlated with clinical and genetic characteristics, including grade, age, histology, IDH status and 1p/19q codeletion, in the training and validation cohorts.

Results

Survival analysis revealed that patients with a higher NTRS exhibited shorter overall survival. NTRS showed better prognostic value compared to classical molecular markers, including IDH status and 1p/19q codeletion. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that NTRS was an independent prognostic factor for gliomas. Enrichment map and Gene Ontology analysis demonstrated that signaling pathways related to the cell cycle were enriched in the NTRSHigh group. Subgroup survival analysis revealed that NTRS could differentiate the outcomes of low- and high-risk patients with wild-type IDH or mutant IDH and 1p/19q non-codeletion.

Conclusions

NTRS is associated with poor outcomes and could be an independent prognostic marker in diffuse gliomas. Prognostic classification combined with IDH mutation, 1p/19q codeletion and NTRS could better predict the survival of glioma patients.
Professionalism in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners: a qualitative study
Authors: Kwan Yu Heng , Chooi Sarah , Yoon Sungwon , Ang Xiang Ling , Phang Jie Kie , Koh Hwee Ling , Thumboo Julian , Ng Swee Cheng , Fong Warren
Published: November 2020

Background

Medical professionalism is important for establishing public trust in doctors. Its definition is culture-sensitive. However, no research has explored medical professionalism in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners. This study aims to (a) establish the domains of professionalism in TCM practitioners in Singapore, and to (b) compare the domains of professionalism of practitioners trained in TCM and practitioners trained in conventional medicine.

Methods

Data for this qualitative study was collected through in-depth interviews (IDIs) with TCM practitioners. IDIs were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted by two independent coders using the Professionalism Mini-Evaluation Exercise (P-MEX) as a framework. The domains of professionalism in TCM and conventional medicine were then compared, using data from a similar study on professionalism in practitioners trained in conventional medicine.

Results

A total of 27 TCM practitioners (40.7% male) participated in this study. The four domains of professionalism in the P-MEX, namely doctor-patient relationship skills, reflective skills, time management and inter-professional relationship skills, and two new sub-domains, “communicated effectively with patient” and “demonstrated understanding and integrated with conventional medicine”, were relevant to TCM practitioners. This is largely similar to that of practitioners trained in conventional medicine, with a few differences, including “ensured continuity of care” and “used health resources appropriately”.

Conclusion

The domains of professionalism in TCM practitioners were established and they are similar to that of practitioners trained in conventional medicine. This study is the first to define medical professionalism in TCM practitioners. Findings will provide guidance on the education of professionalism in TCM practitioners.
Emodin protected against retinal ischemia insulted neurons through the downregulation of protein overexpression of β-catenin and vascular endothelium factor
Authors: Chao Howard Wen-Haur , Chen Yu-Kuang , Liu Jorn-Hon , Pan Hwai-Tzong , Lin Hsin-May , Chao Hsiao-Ming
Published: November 2020

Background

Emodin has been proved to have an anti-ischemic effect on the brain, however little research has been done on its effect on vision-threatening retinal ischemia. Thus, an investigation was carried out into the hypothetical efficacy of emodin against retinal ischemia and the role of β-catenin/VEGF in its therapeutic mechanism.

Methods

Retinal ischemia, followed by reperfusion (IR), was inducted by raising the intraocular pressure of a Wistar rat’s eye to 120 mmHg for 60 min. Additionally, pre-ischemic/post-ischemic intravitreous injections of emodin (4, 10 and 20 μM) or vehicle were carried out on the eye with retinal ischemia. MTT assay, electroretinograms, cresyl violet staining retinal thickness measurements, and fluorogold retrograde labelling of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) as well as Western blotting were carried out.

Results

Cultured RGC-5 cells subjected to oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) were used to confirm the effective concentrations of emodin (administered 1 h pre-OGD, pre-OGD emodin). The most effective and significant (P = 0.04) dose of pre-OGD emodin was observed at 0.5 μM (cell viability: 47.52 ± 3.99%) as compared to pre-OGD vehicle treatment group (38.30 ± 2.51%). Furthermore, pre-ischemic intravitreous injection of 20 μM emodin (Emo20 + IR = 0.99 ± 0.18, P < 0.001) significantly attenuated the ischemia induced reduction in ERG b-wave amplitude, as compared to pre-ischemic intravitreous vehicle (Vehicle+IR = 0.04 ± 0.02). Post-ischemic intravitreous 20 μM emodin also significantly (P < 0.001) attenuated the ischemia associated b-wave reduction (IR + Em20 = 0.24 ± 0.09). Compared with pre-ischemic intravitreous vehicle (Vehicle+IR; whole retina thickness = 71.80 ± 1.08 μm; inner retina thickness = 20.97 ± 0.85 μm; RGC =2069.12 ± 212.82/0.17mm2), the significant (P < 0.001) protective effect was also present with pre-ischemic administration of emodin. This was shown by observing cresyl violet stained retinal thickness (Emo20 + IR: whole retina = 170.10 ± 0.10 μm; inner retina = 70.65 ± 2.06 μm) and retrograde fluorogold immunolabeled RGC density (4623.53 ± 179.48/0.17mm2). As compared to the normal control (the ratio of β-catenin/VEGF to β-actin was set as 1 in the Sham group), the β-catenin/VEGF protein level significantly (P < 0.001) increased after retinal ischemia and when pre-ischemic intravitreous vehicle (Vehicle+IR = 1.64 ± 0.14/7.67 ± 2.57) was carried out. However, these elevations were significantly (P = 0.02) attenuated by treatment with emodin 20 μM (Emo20 + IR = 1.00 ± 0.19/1.23 ± 0.44).

Conclusions

The present results suggest that emodin might protect against retinal ischemia insulted neurons such as RGCs by significantly downregulating the upregulation of β-catenin/VEGF protein that occurs during ischemia.
Self-assembled bovine serum albumin nanoparticles as pesticide delivery vectors for controlling trunk-boring pests
Authors: Su Chenyu , Liu Shanshan , Cao Shenghan , Yin Shuyan , Zhou Chenggang , Gao Shangkun , Jia Chunyan , Ji Yingchao , Liu Yanxue
Published: November 2020

Background

Trunk-boring pests (TBPs) are an important type of forest pest, TBPs not only feed on the branches and trunks of trees, but also spread quarantine diseases in forests. However, because the larvae of TBPs live inside the trunk and are well concealed, prevention and control are difficult. The lack of effective control methods leads to the death of many trees in forests. In this study, a novel nanopesticide featuring high bioactivity and slow-release properties was developed to control TBPs. Thiacloprid (THI), which is commonly used to control Coleoptera species, was used as a model pesticide.

Results

The oleophobic properties of bovine serum albumin (BSA) were exploited to encapsulate the hydrophobic pesticide THI by self-assembly, and the size of the obtained nanoparticles, THI@BSA·NPs, was approximately 23 nm. The loading efficiency reached 70.4%, and THI@BSA·NPs could be released continuously for over 15 days, with the cumulative release reaching 93.5%. The fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled nanoparticles were evenly distributed in the digestive tract and body surface of a typical TBPs, M. alternatus, and the stomach and contact toxicities increased by 33.7% and 25.9%, respectively, compared with those of free THI. Furthermore, the results showed that the transport efficiency of THI@BSA·NPs was highest at a concentration of 50 μg/mL, and the THI@BSA·NPs content in the trunk, from to lower to higher layers, was 8.8, 8.2, 7.6, and 5.8 μg/g. At the same time, THI@BSA·NPs also exhibited high transport efficiency in dead trees.

Conclusion

The transport efficiency and toxicity of the active ingredients are the key factors for the control of TBPs. This work provided idea for the application of biological delivery system encapsulated hydrophobic pesticides. The novel self-assembled THI@BSA·NPs have promising potential for sustainable control of TBPs.
Thermographic imaging of police working dogs with bilateral naturally occurring hip osteoarthritis
Authors: Alves João Carlos Agostinho , dos Santos Ana Margarida Moniz Pereira , Jorge Patrícia Isabel Figueiredo , Branco Lavrador Catarina Falcão Trigoso Vieira , Carreira L. Miguel
Published: November 2020

Background

Digital thermal imaging is a physiologic, non-invasive, contactless, and non-radiating diagnostic tool that can assess a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including hip osteoarthritis (HOA). Fifty police working dogs were evaluated to compare the dorsoventral (DV) and lateral (LT) thermographic images in dogs with naturally occurring bilateral HOA. A DV, and left and right lateral LT images were obtained for each animal in six different moments. They were positioned standing in a symmetrical upright position for the DV view. Each image included the area from the last lumbar to the first coccygeal vertebrae. Each LT view was set with the greater trochanter in the centre of the image. Images were taken with a thermographic camera from a distance of 60 cm. Mean and maximal temperatures were recorded, analyzed with ANOVA, dependent samples t-test, and Spearman correlation, with P < 0.05.

Results

Nine hundred images were considered, collected from 30 males and 20 females, with a mean age of 6.5 ± 2.2 years and bodyweight of 26.7 ± 5.3 kg. The overall value recorded on the DV view was 25.3º ± 9.1 and 28.4º ± 2.8 on the lateral view. These were significantly different (P < 0.01) and with a low correlation (r = 0.10, P = 0.03). German Shepard dogs showed significantly lower values on all views than other breeds (P < 0.01), and heavier dogs had higher values on the lateral view.

Conclusions

This is the first study that describes digital thermography's diagnostic use to evaluate working dogs with naturally occurring HOA, comparing two different views. Future studies should address each one's value in the diagnosis and response to treatment of this disease.
Lifestyle and psychosocial factors associated with maintenance of normal body mass index in college students: a cross sectional study
Authors: Arnetz Bengt B. , Templin Thomas N. , Jen K.-L. Catherine , Sudan Sukhesh , Arnetz Judith E.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify lifestyle and psychosocial factors associated with maintenance of normal body mass index (BMI, 18.5–24.9 kg/m2). Undergraduate students (n = 2781; 7.1% response rate) at a Big Ten university responded to a survey in 2018. BMI was calculated from the reported weight and height at the time of the survey and upon entering the university. Logistic regression analyses examined lifestyle and psychosocial health factors associated with maintenance of normal BMI by academic year.

Results

Current BMI was within normal range for 68.8% of freshmen and 60.6% of seniors. Never consuming fast food was a significant predictor for maintaining normal BMI in sophomores (OR 3.78; 95% CI 1.61, 8.88; p < 0.01) and juniors (OR 7.82; 95% CI 2.14, 28.65; p < 0.01). In seniors, better psychosocial health (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.12, 1.76; p < 0.01) was the only significant predictor for maintaining one’s normal freshman BMI category. Among those within the normal BMI range upon entering the university, psychosocial health (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.10, 1.55; p < 0.01) was the only predictor of retaining one’s absolute BMI within ± 3% as a senior. Prospective studies are needed to better understand the interaction between environment, behavior, and psychological health involved in retaining normal weight.
Outcomes in children treated with growth hormone for Prader-Willi syndrome: data from the ANSWER Program® and NordiNet® International Outcome Study
Authors: Angulo Moris , Abuzzahab M. Jennifer , Pietropoli Alberto , Ostrow Vlady , Kelepouris Nicky , Tauber Maithe
Published: November 2020

Background

Growth hormone (GH) deficiency is common in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and leads to short adult stature. The current study assessed clinical outcomes based on real-world observational data in pediatric patients with PWS who were treated with GH.

Methods

Data from patients previously naïve to treatment with GH who began therapy with somatropin were collected from 2006 to 2016 in the observational American Norditropin® Studies: Web-Enabled Research (ANSWER) Program® and NordiNet® International Outcome Study. Variables affecting change from baseline in height standard deviation scores (HSDS;n = 129) and body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI SDS;n = 98) were determined.

Results

Patients included in both HSDS and BMI SDS analyses were treated with a mean GH dose of 0.03 mg/kg/d (SD, 0.01 mg/kg/d). Results from the HSDS analysis revealed that baseline age and years on treatment had a significant impact on the change in HSDS. In the BMI SDS analysis, longer GH treatment time led to a greater change in BMI SDS from baseline, and patients with a higher BMI at the start of treatment had a greater decrease in BMI over time.

Conclusions

GH is effective in the management of children with PWS. Earlier treatment resulted in a greater gain in height, and a longer treatment period resulted in better outcomes for both height and BMI.

Trial registration

This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01009905) on November 9, 2009.
Daily lifestyle behaviors and risks of sarcopenia among older adults
Authors: Tzeng Pei-Lin , Lin Chien-Yu , Lai Ting-Fu , Huang Wan-Chi , Pien Evonne , Hsueh Ming-Chun , Lin Kun-Pei , Park Jong-Hwan , Liao Yung
Published: November 2020

Background

Lifestyle behaviors are modifiable factors that can provide information for designing intervention strategies for sarcopenia. The present study aimed to identify the relationships between a range of daily lifestyle behaviors and sarcopenia risks among older adults.

Methods

A nationwide telephone-based survey targeting older adults (≥65 years) was performed in Taiwan. Data based on self-reported daily lifestyle behaviors (food selection, physical activity, sitting time, and sleep duration), the presence or absence of sarcopenia (measured by SARC-F), and personal characteristics were obtained. Binary logistic regression models were applied.

Results

A total of 1068 older adults participated in this survey. In the adjusted model, older adults who selected unbalanced foods (odds ratio [OR] = 1.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12–3.34), engaged in insufficient physical activity (OR = 5.14, 95% CI = 3.04–8.70), and sat for longer periods of time (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.09–3.59) were more likely to have higher risks of sarcopenia. No significant association was observed for sleep duration.

Conclusions

The results of this study highlight that, among health behaviors, an unbalanced food selection (six nutrients), not meeting physical activity recommendations (150 min/week), and a higher sitting time (≥7 h/day) were risk factors for sarcopenia among older adults. Intervention programs for sarcopenia prevention in older adults should focus on promoting balanced food selection, sufficient physical activity, and reduced sitting time.
Effects of rating criteria order on the halo effect in L2 writing assessment: a many-facet Rasch measurement analysis
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo
Published: November 2020

The halo effect is raters’ undesirable tendency to assign more similar ratings across rating criteria than they should. The impacts of the halo effect on ratings have been studied in rater-mediated L2 writing assessment. Little is known, however, about the extent to which rating criteria order in analytic rating scales is associated with the magnitude of the group- and individual-level halo effects. Thus, this study attempts to examine the extent to which the magnitude of the halo effect is associated with rating criteria order in analytic rating scales. To select essays untainted by the effects of rating criteria order, a balanced Latin square design was implemented along with the employment of four expert raters. Next, 11 trained novice Korean raters rated the 30 screened essays with respect to the four rating criteria in three different rating orders: standard-, reverse-, and random-order. A three-facet rating scale model (L2 writer ability, rater severity, criterion difficulty) was fitted to estimate the group- and individual-level halo effects. The overall results of this study showed that the similar magnitude of the group-level halo effect was detected in the standard- and reverse-order rating rubrics while the random presentation of rating criteria decreased the group-level halo effect. A theoretical implication of the study is the necessity of considering rating criteria order as a source of construct-irrelevant easiness or difficulty when developing analytic rating scales.
Ultrafast optical manipulation of magnetic order in ferromagnetic materials
Authors: Wang Chuangtang , Liu Yongmin
Published: November 2020

The interaction between ultrafast lasers and magnetic materials is an appealing topic. It not only involves interesting fundamental questions that remain inconclusive and hence need further investigation, but also has the potential to revolutionize data storage technologies because such an opto-magnetic interaction provides an ultrafast and energy-efficient means to control magnetization. Fruitful progress has been made in this area over the past quarter century. In this paper, we review the state-of-the-art experimental and theoretical studies on magnetization dynamics and switching in ferromagnetic materials that are induced by ultrafast lasers. We start by describing the physical mechanisms of ultrafast demagnetization based on different experimental observations and theoretical methods. Both the spin-flip scattering theory and the superdiffusive spin transport model will be discussed in detail. Then, we will discuss laser-induced torques and resultant magnetization dynamics in ferromagnetic materials. Recent developments of all-optical switching (AOS) of ferromagnetic materials towards ultrafast magnetic storage and memory will also be reviewed, followed by the perspectives on the challenges and future directions in this emerging area.
Unfractionated heparin in acute chest syndrome: a pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial of unfractionated heparin vs. standard of care in acute chest syndrome
Authors: Seaman Craig D. , Novelli Enrico , De Castro Laura , Ragni Margaret V.
Published: November 2020

Background

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) is the leading cause of mortality in sickle cell disease (SCD). The pathogenesis of ACS is complex and not entirely understood with multiple etiologies likely contributing simultaneously. One particular etiology is pulmonary vascular occlusion due to thrombosis. Thus, anticoagulation is an attractive therapeutic modality.

Methods

This was a single-center, randomized controlled, open-label, pilot study to determine the feasibility of performing a larger multicenter phase III trial to assess the effects of unfractionated heparin (UFH) in ACS. Subjects were randomized within 24 h of diagnosis of ACS to one of two treatment arms, UFH, and standard of care (SOC), or no UFH and SOC. UFH was given intravenously for 7 days, or until discharge, if discharge was shorter than 7 days. SOC consisted of intravenous fluids, antibiotics, supplemental oxygen, analgesia, red blood cell transfusion, and exchange transfusion.

Results

From July 2014 to June 2018, a total of 7 patients underwent randomization (four patients received UFH in addition to SOC and 3 patients received SOC only). Two of the prespecified feasibility criteria were not met: the capacity to consent eligible individuals and the timely notification of hospitalized patients with ACS necessary to permit randomization within 24 h of diagnosis; thus, as a result of poor enrollment, the study was terminated early. The duration of hospitalization was 279.43 (SD 267.98) and 127.31 (SD 137.70) h in the UFH and SOC arms, respectively. The duration of hypoxemia, leukocytosis, fever, and moderate to severe pain was 117.52 (SD 60.52), 24.90 (SD 29.69), 117.52 (SD 60.52), and 117.52 (SD 60.52) h, respectively, in the UFH group, and 51.49 (SD 44.79), 0, 53.11 (SD 25.06), and 88.68 (SD 72.77) h, respectively, in the SOC group. No major bleeding was noted in either group.

Conclusions

Our study did not achieve prespecified feasibility criteria, resulting in poor enrollment and early termination, and serves to highlight some of the pitfalls experienced in clinical research in SCD. It did show the use of UFH without any major adverse events in 7 subjects. No future large-scale study is planned.

Trials registration

Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT #02098993) on March 28, 2014.
Factors that affect the discontinuation of family planning methods in Myanmar: analysis of the 2015–16 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Tin Khaing Nwe , Maung Thae Maung , Win Thiri
Published: November 2020

Background

Access to family planning contributes up to a 44% reduction in maternal deaths. Since the majority of unplanned pregnancies and abortions occur in women who were either not using contraception or not using it consistently, greater access to contraception and more consistent use of contraception are crucial in the reduction of unplanned pregnancies and abortions. This study aims to determine which types of contraceptives are most often discontinued, the reasons for discontinuation, and the factors that influence contraceptive discontinuation for women in Myanmar.

Methods

This study is a secondary data analysis of calendar data from the 2015–16 Myanmar Demographic Health Survey. The dependent variable is discontinuation of contraception within 12 months among episodes of contraceptive use in the 5 years before the survey among women age 15–49. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of contraceptive discontinuation.

Results

The 12-month discontinuation rate for all contraceptive methods was 39%. The discontinuation rates for short-term methods were remarkably high (43% for pills and 42% for injectables), while the rate for long-term methods was very low (7% for intrauterine devices and 0.2% for implants). Discontinuation while still in need of contraception was high (55%) although 28% of those women switched to other modern methods. Multivariable logistic regression showed the factors associated with contraceptive discontinuation were a woman’s age, location (state/region), wealth, and number of births within the past 5 years.

Conclusions

The high rate of discontinuation while in need is very alarming given goals to reduce the unmet need for family planning in Myanmar. Family planning programs must ensure timely, informed method-switching by women who discontinue contraception, especially among women for whom discontinuation is the highest (age 45–49, middle and richest wealth quintile, regions where high discontinuation and multiparity); increase the availability of long-term contraceptive methods, and improve counseling that ensures clients’ informed and voluntary choice of family planning services.
The macroeconomic effects of COVID-19 in Montenegro: a Bayesian VARX approach
Authors: Djurovic Gordana , Djurovic Vasilije , Bojaj Martin M.
Published: November 2020

This study examines, diagnoses, and assesses appropriate macroeconomic policy responses of the Montenegrin Government to the outbreak of COVID-19. The model econometrically measures the macroeconomic costs using a Bayesian VARX Litterman/Minessota prior to the pandemic disease in terms of demand and supply loss due to illness and closed activities and their effects on GDP growth in various pandemic scenarios. We explore five economic scenarios—shocks—using the available data from January 2006 to December 2019, following real out-of-sample forecasts generated from January 2020 to December 2020. Sensitivity scenarios spanning January 2020 to June 2020 from ± 10 to ± 60% were analyzed. We observed what happens to the supply and demand sides, namely, GDP, tourism, capital stock, human capital, health expenditures, economic freedom, and unemployment. The results show a toll on the GDP, tourism, unemployment, capital stock, and especially human capital for 2020. The recommended policy measures are public finance spending initiatives focused on securing employment and keeping highly qualified staff in Montenegrin companies. Considering all uncertainties, the rebound of the Montenegrin economy could take a few years to reach pre-COVID 19 output levels.
Lupus mastitis with predominant kappa-restricted plasma cell infiltration: report of a rare case
Authors: Yan Mingfei , Bomeisl Philip , Gilmore Hannah , Oduro Kwadwo , Harbhajanka Aparna
Published: November 2020

Lupus mastitis (LM) is a rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). The clinical presentations of LM may mimic breast malignancy, and biopsy or excision is usually performed. Histologically, LM is featured by lymphoplasmacytic inflammation involving breast ducts, lobules, blood vessels and adipose tissue. Characteristic hyaline fat necrosis can be noted in most cases. Here, we reported a case of LM in an elderly female patient who presented with bilateral breast lesions. Histologically, the breast lesions showed prominent hyaline fat necrosis and predominantly plasmacytic inflammation involving breast ducts, vessels and fat lobules. Fibrinoid necrosis of vessels was also noted. The infiltrated plasma cells were Kappa light chain-restricted, but did not show the immunophenotypes for a plasma cell neoplasm. In addition, the patient developed Kappa-restricted plasma cell myeloma 2 years later. The patient was followed up for 8 years, and her breast lesion did not show recurrence. The patient’s unique clinicopathological presentations indicated a potential correlation between her LM and subsequently developed myeloma. It also indicated that the immunophenotypical characterization of infiltrated plasma cells in LM patients with predominant plasma cell infiltration may be important to rule out potential plasma cell neoplasms.
Inner product encryption from ring learning with errors
Authors: Fang Shisen , Yang Shaojun , Zhang Yuexin
Published: November 2020

The functional encryption scheme designed using the lattice can realize fine-grained encryption and it can resist quantum attacks. Unfortunately, the sizes of the keys and ciphertexts in cryptographic applications based on learning with errors are large, which makes the algorithm inefficient. Therefore, we construct a functional encryption for inner product predicates scheme by improving the learning with errors scheme of Agrawal et al. [Asiacrypt 2011], and its security relies on the difficulty assumption of ring learning with errors. Our construction can reduce the sizes of the keys and ciphertexts compared with the learning with errors scheme.
Chemerin level in a sample of Egyptian females with PCOS and its relation to insulin resistance
Authors: Halawa Mohamed Reda , El Baky Rania Said Abd , Eid Yara Mohamed , Nasr Merhan Samy , Taha Bahaa Mahmoud , Hendawy Laila Mahmoud Ali
Published: November 2020

Background

Chemerin a novel adipokine is linked to insulin resistance and adiposity which are major characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Results

Chemerin level was found to be significantly higher in PCOS group than in control group (94.99 ± 12.52 ng/dl vs 73.41 ± 6.95 ng/dl) (P < 0.001) being the highest in obese PCO group, also chemerin positively correlated with BMI, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR (P < 0.001), Multivariate linear regression analysis for factors affecting chemerin level in both PCO groups showed that the most important factor was fasting insulin (P = 0.042).

Conclusion

Chemerin correlates with insulin resistance and may be involved in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance in PCOS patients.
Foam Destabilization Effect of Sodium Bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate on Sodium Alkylsulfate Aqueous Solutions Based on Its Fast Surface Tension Gradient Relaxation
Authors: Aono Keita , Suzuki Furitsu , Yomogida Yoshihiro , Hasumi Motomitsu , Kado Shinpei , Nakahara Yoshio , Yajima Setsuko
Published: November 2020

This study investigated the relationship between the air–water interfacial dilational viscoelasticity and foam properties in mixed anionic surfactant aqueous solutions of sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate (AOT), sodium n-dodecylsulfate (C12AS), sodium n-tetradecylsulfate (C14AS), and sodium n-hexadecylsulfate (C16AS). The surfactants used here differ only in hydrophobic chains. The air–water interfacial viscoelasticity of AOT aqueous solutions mixed with C12AS or C14AS was similar to that of AOT single aqueous solutions at the same constituent concentration of AOT. On the other hand, the air–water interfacial viscoelasticity of mixed aqueous solutions of AOT and C16AS was intermediate between the respective single aqueous solutions. The foam properties of these mixed aqueous solutions were evaluated by a modified Ross–Miles method and it was shown that foam stability is correlated with the maximum value of viscoelastic modulus in mixed aqueous solutions of AOT and AS.