bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutically‐rational exchange (T‐REX) of Gerbich‐negative red blood cells can be evaluated in Papua New Guinea as “a rescue adjunct” for patients with Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Authors: Jajosky Ryan Philip , Jajosky Audrey N. , Jajosky Philip G.
Published: June 2020

“Conventional exchange transfusion”—that delivers nondescript “standard issue” units of red blood cells (RBCs)—is used worldwide to rescue dying Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) malaria patients. Recently, exchanging special malaria‐resistant RBCs (T‐REX) has been recommended to prevent random delivery of malaria‐susceptible RBCs that promote Pf infection. Fortunately, Papua New Guinea (PNG) is well positioned to help optimize exchange as “a rescue adjunct” because (a) Gerbich‐negative (GN) RBCs that resist Pf invasion are prevalent in PNG; (b) with international support, PNG has conducted outstanding malaria research; (c) PNG's scientists feel studies of GN RBCs can advance malaria therapeutics; and (d) with blood‐bank support, evaluating exchange of GN RBCs is feasible in PNG. An exchange‐transfusion study of GN RBCs might attract international sponsorship given the threat of expanding drug‐resistance as well as growing recognition that advancing transfusion medicine and expanding blood donation could especially help Pf‐infected children—immediately.
The structure and antimicrobial potential of wasp and hornet (Vespidae) mastoparans: A review
Authors: Choi Moon Bo , Lee Yong‐Ho
Published: June 2020

Wasp venom is a complex mixture of biologically active components, including high molecular weight proteins, small peptides, bioactive amines, and amino acids. Peptides comprise up to 70% of dried venom. In social wasp venoms, three of the major peptide types are mastoparans, which cause mast cell degranulation, chemotactic peptides, which promote chemotaxis of polymorphonucleated leukocytes, and kinin‐related peptides, which are known to produce pain and increase vascular permeability. Among these, the bioactive tridecapeptide mastoparan is the most common and may even have antimicrobial activity. Herein we summarize the results of studies on vespid mastoparans, focusing on hornets (Vespa spp.) identified following a systematic literature search for mastoparans of hornets in the genus Vespa, the most active mastoparan research taxon. The common features of hornet mastoparans are C‐terminal amidation, amphipathic helical structure, and multiple functions such as mast cell degranulation and hemolysis, as well as membrane permeabilization. Most interestingly, all tested hornet mastoparans have strong antimicrobial activities, suggesting that they can provide useful insights into and opportunities for development of novel antibacterial peptides.
Profiling terpene glycosides from ecolly, cabernet gernischet, and muscat hamburg grapes by ultra performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Song Hongcong , Wang Xingjie , Li Aihua , Liu Jibin , Tao Yong‐sheng
Published: June 2020

Terpene glycosides (TGs) in the berry skins of Ecolly and Cabernet Gernischet (CG) grapes were profiled by ultra performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) and compared to that of Muscat Hamburg (MH) grapes. The aroma glycosides in grape skins were extracted by methanol, purified using Amberlite XAD‐2 resins, eluted in methanol/ethyl acetate, and analyzed by UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS. MS/MS fragmentation and the TG database were used for identification, while semiquantification was achieved by the internal standard, octyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside. Seven, nine, and thirteen TGs were identified in Ecolly, CG, and MH, respectively, whereas only four TGs were detected in all the varieties. Compared to MH, linalool‐3‐O‐α‐L‐arabinofuranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside was unique for Ecolly, and pyran linalool oxide‐α‐L‐arabinofuranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside was unique for CG. Furthermore, the total concentrations of TGs were 7.32, 3.50, and 81.27 mg/kg in Ecolly, CG, and MH, respectively. Diendiol I‐α‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, furanosyl‐linalool oxide‐7‐O‐α‐L‐arabinofuranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, and nerol‐l‐O‐α‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside were most abundant in Ecolly, CG, and MH, respectively.

Practical Application

Terpene glycosides (TGs) are important aroma precursors for wines and it is meaningful to reveal the profiles of TGs in grapes. By analyzing the differences of TGs among the Ecolly, Cabernet Gernischet (CG), and Muscat Hamburg grape varieties, it is expected to provide guidance for the study on the aroma characteristics and aroma enhancing brewing of Ecolly and CG grapes. The results may provide technical experience on aroma glycoside identification and their quantification in grapes and wines for future studies.
Are synthetic biology standards applicable in everyday research practice?
Authors: Tas Huseyin , Amara Adam , Cueva Miguel E. , Bongaerts Nadine , Calvo‐Villamañán Alicia , Hamadache Samir , Vavitsas Konstantinos
Published: June 2020

The issue of standardization in synthetic biology is a recurring one. As a discipline that incorporates engineering principles into biological designs, synthetic biology needs effective ways to communicate results and allow different researchers (both academic and industrial) to build upon previous results and improve on existing designs. An aspect that is left out of the discussions, especially when they happen at the level of academic and industrial consortia or policymaking, is whether or not standards are applicable or even useful in everyday research practice. In this caucus article, we examine this particular issue with the hope of including it in the standardization discussions agenda and provide insights into a topic that synthetic biology researchers experience daily.
Large joint and lower extremity involvement have higher impact on disease outcomes in oligoarticular psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Ayan Gizem , Solmaz Dilek , Bakirci Sibel , Tinazzi Ilaria , Omma Ahmet , Kucuksahin Orhan , Ozisler Cem , Yavuz Sule , Bayindir Ozun , Kimyon Gezmis , Dogru Atalay , Tarhan Emine Figen , Can Meryem , Kilic Levent , Duruoz Mehmet Tuncay , Aksu Kenan , Kalyoncu Umut , Aydin Sibel Zehra
Published: June 2020

Objective

Joints with different sizes and anatomical locations can be affected in psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Our aim was to explore the effect of different joint patterns on patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with mono‐oligoarthritis.

Methods

Within PsArt‐ID (Psoriatic Arthritis‐ International Database), 387/1670 patients who had mono‐oligoarthritis (1‐4 tender and swollen joints) were enrolled in cross‐sectional assessment. The joints were categorized according to their size (small/large) and location (upper/lower extremity) and PROs, physician global assessment and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were compared. Analysis was made by categorizing according to joint counts (1‐2 joints/ 3‐4 joints).

Results

The mean age (SD) was 46.9 (14.24) with a mean (SD) PsA duration of 3.93 (6.03) years. Within patients with 1‐2 involved joints (n = 302), size of the joints only had an impact on CRP values with large joints having higher CRP (P = .005), similar to lower extremity involvement (P = .004). PROs were similar regardless of size or location if 1‐2 joints were inflamed. Within patients with 3‐4 involved joints (n = 85), patient global assessment (PGA), pain, fatigue and physician global assessment were higher in the group with large joints. Similarly, PGA, pain, and physician global assessment were higher in patients with lower extremity involvement as well as higher CRP values.

Conclusion

For PsA patients with 3‐4 joints involved, lower extremity and large joints are associated with poorer outcomes with worse PROs, physician global assessment, and higher CRP. The size and anatomical location of the joints are less important for patients with 1‐2 joints in terms of the PROs.
Successful continuous nivolumab therapy for metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer after local treatment of oligometastatic lesions
Authors: Tobita Satoshi , Kinehara Yuhei , Tamura Yoshio , Kurebe Hiroyuki , Ninomiya Ryusuke , Utsu Yoshihiko , Kohmo Satoshi , Sato Bunzo , Nagai Kenichi , Maruoka Shintaro , Jokoji Ryu , Koyama Shohei , Tachibana Isao
Published: June 2020

The patient in this report was a 57‐year‐old man with metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). After no response to two lines of systemic chemotherapy, he was treated with nivolumab as third‐line therapy, which resulted in a partial response. After 17 months of nivolumab treatment, he developed bone metastasis in his left femur which was treated with radiation therapy. Nivolumab was restarted after radiation therapy. Four months after radiation therapy, he developed another metastatic lesion in the small intestine which was surgically resected. Because there were no recurrent NSCLC lesions after surgical resection, nivolumab was restarted again. At 18 months after surgery, there were no recurrent NSCLC lesions. Immunohistochemical analysis of peritumoral T lymphocytes showed higher expression of T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain‐containing protein 3 (TIM‐3) and lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG‐3) in recurrent lesions of bone and small intestine than in primary lesions. Upregulation of TIM‐3 and LAG‐3 could be associated with mechanisms of adaptive resistance to nivolumab in this case. Here, we report a successful case of continued nivolumab therapy with remission after local treatments consisting of radiation therapy and surgical resection for oligometastases. Continuation of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment may be worth considering if oligometastases can be controlled.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

We report a successful case of continued nivolumab treatment with remission after local treatment (radiation therapy and surgical resection) for oligometastases.

What this study adds

Upregulation of T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain‐containing protein 3 and lymphocyte‐activation gene 3 could be associated with mechanisms of adaptive resistance to nivolumab.
Integrating Behavioral Economic and Social Network Influences in Understanding Alcohol Misuse in a Diverse Sample of Emerging Adults
Authors: Acuff Samuel F. , MacKillop James , Murphy James G.
Published: June 2020

Background

Behavioral economic alcohol demand is a measure of motivation to consume alcohol and a robust risk factor for alcohol misuse. Social networks that are dense with alcohol are also associated with heavy drinking, but the intersection of these risk factors has not been investigated to date. This study examined these interrelationships with structural equation modeling using cross‐sectional data from a diverse community sample of heavy‐drinking emerging adults (N = 602).

Methods

Latent variables for alcohol social network, alcohol demand, and alcohol misuse were constructed. Next, relations between the latent variables were examined, including the indirect effect of alcohol demand in the relation between alcohol social network and alcohol misuse. An alternative modeling testing the indirect effect of alcohol social network on the relation between alcohol demand and misuse was also tested.

Results

When alone in the model, social network alcohol density significantly predicted alcohol misuse. When alcohol demand was included in the model, social network alcohol density predicted alcohol demand, alcohol demand predicted alcohol misuse, and an indirect effect on alcohol misuse through alcohol demand was present. In the alternative model, an indirect effect was not present between alcohol demand and alcohol misuse by social network alcohol density. Exploratory analyses revealed significant sex, race, and college status differences.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the influence of social network alcohol density on alcohol misuse may be, in part, through variance accounted for by alcohol reinforcing value. Longitudinal testing of this mechanistic pathway is warranted.
Role of orbitofrontal cortex in incubation of oxycodone craving in male rats
Authors: Altshuler Rachel D. , Yang Eddy S. , Garcia Kristine T. , Davis Ian R. , Olaniran Adedayo , Haile Meron , Razavi Syrus , Li Xuan
Published: June 2020

One of the main challenges in treating opioid‐use disorders is relapse during abstinence, triggered by re‐exposure to drug‐associated cues. Previous studies have demonstrated that drug‐seeking in rats progressively increases over time during withdrawal (incubation of drug craving). Here, we used male rats and examined neural mechanisms underlying incubation of craving to oxycodone, a commonly abused prescription opioid, and we focused on orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), a brain region previously implicated in incubation of heroin craving. We first used neuronal activity marker Fos and measured neuronal activation in OFC (ventral and lateral OFC) associated with day‐1 and day‐15 relapse tests. Next, we determined the effect of pharmacological reversible inactivation of OFC on incubated oxycodone seeking on withdrawal day 15. Finally, we determined the effect of reversible inactivation of OFC on nonincubated oxycodone seeking on withdrawal day 1. We found that lever presses during relapse tests were higher on withdrawal day 15 than on withdrawal day 1 (incubation of oxycodone craving). Incubation of oxycodone craving is accompanied with a time‐dependent increase of Fos protein expression in both ventral and lateral OFC. Lastly, OFC inactivation decreased oxycodone seeking on withdrawal day 15 but had no effect on withdrawal day 1. Together with the previous heroin study, results here show that OFC plays a critical role in incubation of opioid craving.
The other side of late‐life intimacy? Sexual violence in later life
Authors: Bows Hannah
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To explore the extent, nature and consequences of sexual violence in later life.

Methods

Data were obtained from all police forces in England, Wales and Northern Ireland on rape and sexual assault by penetration (Sexual Offences Act 2003) offences involving a victim aged ≥ 60 years, recorded between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2013. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 27 practitioners working in specialist violence or age‐related organisations and with three female survivors.

Results

The majority of victims were female, and most offenders were male. Offenders were generally younger than victims, and most offences occurred in the victim's home, although one in five occurred in a care home. Physical, psychological and social consequences were described which create specific challenges in accessing and receiving support.

Conclusion

An intersectional life course analysis of sexual violence is required to develop a better understanding of the consequences, particularly for older women.
Defining sexuality in later life: A systematic review
Authors: Macleod Ashley , McCabe Marita P.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To identify whether a consistent definition of sexuality is used across research articles to describe sexuality in later life for heterosexual men and women.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted that examined how researchers define sexuality for heterosexual adults. Peer‐reviewed journal articles on sexuality published between 1999 and 2018 were examined for the presence of sexuality definitions. Sexuality themes discussed in each article were recorded, and results were tabulated.

Results

Few articles explicitly provide a definition of 'sexuality' as it pertains to later life. Definitions from articles that defined sexuality explicitly were inconsistent across studies. Topics included in implicit and explicit definitions of sexuality were disparate across studies and included a diverse range of sexuality dimensions.

Conclusion

Greater consistency is needed in how “sexuality” in later life is defined across studies and should be informed by data so that it accurately reflects the sexual experiences of older adults.
Sexuality and ageing in palliative care environments? Breaking the (triple) taboo
Authors: Malta Sue , Wallach Isabelle
Published: June 2020

Background

Ageist perceptions continue to constrain the choices available to older adults in terms of their sexual expression.

Objective

This paper discusses the last stage of life, when older adults may be progressing through a terminal disease, dying and in palliative care environments. Are they (or is anyone, at any age) interested in remaining intimate when they are dying? If yes, how is this interest accepted/facilitated within such environments?.

Results

This article does not claim to be definitive, but provides a broad, preliminary sketch of this neglected research area. It suggests that, for many, sexual expression and intimate connection continue to be important until the very end of the lifespan.

Conclusions

As such, this important topic deserves recognition as part of an overall response to sexuality and ageing by policy makers and health professionals. Its importance will only become more significant due to greater longevity and population ageing.
An overview of sexual behaviour research in later life—Quantitative and qualitative findings
Authors: Freak‐Poli Rosanne , Malta Sue
Published: June 2020

Aim

This article provides an overview of current sexual behaviour research in later life by describing associated factors, including the physical and psychological benefits.

Methods

Recent systematic reviews were interrogated for findings on sexual behaviour research in adults aged 60+.

Results

Regardless of research methods employed, all studies showed that there were a range of physical and psychological benefits to remaining sexually active in later life. While quantitative studies placed an emphasis on measuring penile‐vaginal intercourse, they provided no definitive conclusion about the benefits due to ‘inconsistent results’ across studies. Qualitative studies described the myriad ways in which older adults redefine what constitutes sexual activity despite the onset of dysfunction and disability.

Conclusion

While the different research methods show that engaging in sexual behaviour has physical and psychological benefits at all adult ages, there is limited conclusive evidence about what the overall benefits might be in later life.
It's not age that prevents sexual activity later in life
Authors: Freak‐Poli Rosanne
Published: June 2020

Objective

To describe key factors that facilitate sexual behaviour in later life.

Methods

Re‐analysis of data from a study of 2,374 Dutch older adults.

Results

Partner availability, gender and health are likely to be more important factors influencing sexual behaviour engagement than the factor of age in later life. Lack of partner availability, traditional gender roles and poor health are associated with older age. However, current generations of older adults will be more capable, less ashamed of their sexual desires and engage in more sexual behaviour than prior generations.

Conclusion

This analysis observed that sexual activity is associated with partner availability and better health, rather than age, countering stereotypes of decline in sexual behaviour and normalising sexual activity and desire in later life.
Intralipid treatment for women with reproductive failures
Authors: Coulam Carolyn B.
Published: June 2020

Does intravenous intralipid treatment for reproductive failure enhance live births? The answer to this question is yes, BUT only in patients that have a diagnosis of recurrent implantation failure (RIF) or recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) loss AND demonstrate elevated NK (natural killer) cell density in their endometrial biopsy. Live birth rates have been reported between 33% and 42% among women displaying elevated NK activity with a diagnosis of RIF and 75% and 91% among women experiencing RPL after intralipid infusion. When the pregnancy outcomes of women with a history of reproductive failure and elevated NK cells treated with intralipid were evaluated, the overall live birth rate per cycle of treatment was 61%. The results of published studies suggest that intralipid can be used successfully as a therapeutic option to modulate abnormal NK activity in women with reproductive problems.
Twenty years of endophthalmitis: Incidence, aetiology and clinical outcome
Authors: Malmin Agni , Syre Heidi , Ushakova Anastasia , Utheim Tor Paaske , Forsaa Vegard Asgeir
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To review the incidence, aetiology and outcomes of endophthalmitis during a 20‐year period in a Norwegian university hospital.

Methods

Single‐centre retrospective review. Medical records of all patients admitted to Stavanger University Hospital with suspected endophthalmitis between January 1999 and December 2018 were reviewed.

Results

We identified 84 eyes of 81 patients. Postoperative endophthalmitis (PE) was seen in 64 eyes (76%), endogenous endophthalmitis in thirteen eyes (15%), trauma in four eyes (5%) and three eyes (4%) had keratitis‐associated endophthalmitis. Administration of intravitreal injections (IVI) was the most common cause (30%), followed by cataract surgery (CS) (21%). Of 40238 IVI, 23 PE cases were identified (incidence, 0.057%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.036–0.086%). Of 39697 CS, 12 PE cases were identified (incidence, 0.030%; 95%CI 0.016–0.053%). After introduction of intracameral cefuroxime PE incidence after CS decreased from 0.10% in 1999–2003 to 0.015% in 2004–2018 (p = 0.003). Eighty‐four per cent of organisms were Gram‐positive. Coagulase‐negative staphylococci accounted for 54% of culture‐proven cases, and 89% of post‐IVI culture‐proven cases. Thirty eyes (36%) either regained their previous vision or lost ≤1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study line. One third of endophthalmitis cases had a favourable visual outcome of logMAR 0.2 or better.

Conclusion

PE after IVI occurred in 1 in 1750 procedures, and was the most common cause of PE. The incidence of PE after CS has decreased >sixfold since 2003, to 1 in 6700 surgeries. A high proportion of low‐virulence bacterial species may have contributed to the favourable visual outcome.
Quality of life was similar in children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and oesophageal atresia and related to respiratory morbidity
Authors: Darmaun Laura , Lejeune Stephanie , Drumez Elodie , Mur Sebastien , de Langle‐Chevalier Fanny , Nève Véronique , Storme Laurent , Michaud Laurent , Gottrand Frederic , Thumerelle Caroline , Deschildre Antoine
Published: June 2020

Aim

To assess quality of life (QoL) in children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and to compare it with oesophageal atresia (OA).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study in CDH children (≥7 years) was conducted in Lille University Hospital, France, from January 2013 to April 2014. History, lung function (rest, exercise) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory questionnaires (PedsQoL 4.0) were collected. Data of OA children were previously published.

Results

Fifty‐four CDH patients (male: 53%, median age: 11 years, IQR 9‐14) were compared to 54 OA patients (male: 61%, median age: 13 years, IQR: 11‐15). CDH children had significantly more frequent history of pneumonia (30% vs 13%), exercise limitation (54% vs 35%) and chest deformity (39% vs 11%); 46% had an obstructive pattern and 66% an abnormal cardiopulmonary exercise test. The median PedsQoL total score in children was 81 (IQR 73‐90) in CDH and 81 (IQR 72‐91) in OA (P = .8). In CDH, duration of neonatal oxygen therapy, hospitalisation for respiratory disease, exercise limitation, inhaled corticosteroids treatment, chest deformity, abnormal cardiopulmonary exercise test and lower forced expiratory volume in one second were significantly associated with lower QoL scores.

Conclusion

PedsQoL scores remained satisfactory in CDH children with CDH, with no difference compared to OA. Patients with respiratory morbidity and lung function impairment, who displayed lower scores, should be identified in order to optimise their management in reference centres.
Laparoscopic gastrectomy for heart failure patients with left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Ishida Tomo , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Kurokawa Yukinori , Tanaka Koji , Makino Tomoki , Yamasaki Makoto , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro
Published: June 2020

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) currently play an important role in the treatment of patients with end‐stage heart failure who require a bridge to heart transplantation. As the LVAD population increases, the incidence of cancer patients with an LVAD is assumed to be increasing as well. For gastric cancer patients with an LVAD, surgery may be the only curative treatment, especially as chemotherapy is scarcely available. However, we cannot perform an upper‐middle incision in these patients because of the LVAD's location and driveline. Furthermore, to reduce the risk of driveline infection, minimally invasive surgery is desirable. Therefore, laparoscopic surgery is, where possible, suitable for achieving a secure approach to the abdominal cavity. However, laparoscopic surgery for patients with LVAD requires careful consideration not only for anesthetic management, but also for the technical procedure. We ingenuously performed laparoscopic gastrectomy for a gastric cancer patient with LVAD to preserve the device and obtain a good surgical view.
Single‐incision plus two‐port robotic surgery for sigmoid colon cancer using the Senhance robotic system
Authors: Hirano Yasumitsu , Kondo Hiroka , Miyawaki Yutaka , Sugita Hirofumi , Sakuramoto Shinichi , Yamaguchi Shigeki
Published: June 2020

Informed by our experiences with reduced‐port surgery for colorectal cancer, we performed the first single‐incision plus two‐port robotic sigmoidectomy for cancer with the Senhance robotic system. A 70‐year‐old woman presented to our department for the treatment of sigmoid colon cancer. We performed single‐incision two‐port robotic sigmoidectomy. A wound protector was inserted through a 3.0‐cm transumbilical incision, a multiport access device was mounted on top of it, and then a camera port and a 5‐mm assistant's port were placed in the multiport access device. Two extra ports were placed on the central line of the abdomen. Lymph node dissection around the inferior mesenteric artery and mobilization of the left‐sided colon were completed without any perioperative complications. The total operative time was 204 minutes, and the console time was 113 minutes. The estimated blood loss was 75 mL. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 8 without any complications.
Effect of using Acacia mearnsii tannin extract as a feed additive on nutritional variables and productive performance in dairy cows grazing a temperate pasture
Authors: Orlandi Tiago , Pozo Claudio A. , Schiavo Jordana , Oliveira Lisandre , Kozloski Gilberto V.
Published: June 2020

This study was carried out to evaluate the impact of including Acacia mearnsii tannin extract (TA) as a feed additive on nutrition and productive performance of dairy cows grazing a high‐quality temperate pasture and receiving supplementation with a concentrate feedstuff. Fourteen multiparous Holstein cows were assigned to either of the following treatments: concentrate without or with 20 g TA/kg dry matter (DM). Concentrate intake accounted for 32% of the total DM intake. Tannin addition increased the herbage DM intake by 22% (p < .05). There was no effect of TA inclusion on milk yield, milk composition, milk nitrogen (N) excretion, milk and plasma urea‐N concentration, urinary excretion of total N, urea‐N, and purine derivatives. However, TA inclusion increased the N intake and retention, total N excretion in manure, fecal N to urine N ratio, and decreased the dietary N efficiency for milk production and the percentage of ingested N excreted in urine (p < .05). In conclusion, supplementing dairy cows grazing a high‐quality temperate pasture with a concentrate containing 20 g TA/kg DM showed the potential of decreasing the proportion of ingested N excreted in urine without affecting the productive performance.
Presentation, disease progression and outcomes of adrenal gland metastases
Authors: Mao Jimmy J. , Dages Kelley N. , Suresh Malavika , Bancos Irina
Published: June 2020

Objective

Data on the presentations and outcomes of patients with adrenal gland metastases are limited. Our objectives were to characterize the prevalence of adrenal metastases subtypes and investigate how varying clinical presentations affect disease progression, development of primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and mortality.

Design

Single institution tertiary centre, retrospective cohort study from 1997 to 2020.

Patients and Measurements

Adult patients with adrenal metastases. Clinical, radiologic and biochemical presentations and outcomes were reviewed.

Results

Of 579 patients (62.3% men, median age 67 years [range 25‐92]) with adrenal metastases (median tumour size of 30 mm [range 5‐200]), 339 (58.5%) were discovered during cancer staging, 210 (36.3%) were found incidentally, and 29 (5.0%) based on symptoms. Tumours originated from the lung (226, 39.0%), genitourinary (GU) (160, 27.6%), gastrointestinal (GI) (79, 13.6%) and other (114, 19.7%) organ systems. Bilateral metastases were found in 140 (24.2%) patients at the time of initial diagnosis, and 249 (43.0%) had bilateral disease throughout the study course. PAI developed in 12.4% of patients with bilateral disease and was associated with larger tumour size. Median follow‐up time was 14 months (range 0‐232), and 442 (76.3%) patients died. Higher mortality was independently associated with older age, adrenal metastases originating from the lung, bilateral disease, and the absence of adrenalectomy.

Conclusions

Adrenal gland metastases originated most commonly from lung, GU and GI malignancies. Bilateral adrenal metastases occurred in 43% of patients, and PAI occurred in 12.4% of those with bilateral disease, warranting further case detection strategies.
The role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene polymorphisms in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Koçer Canan , Benlier Necla , Balci Sibel Oğuzkan , Pehlivan Sacide , Şanli Maruf , Nacak Muradiye
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Lung cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth in the lung tissues. The most common causes of lung cancer include smoking, exposure to radon gas, asbestos, environmental pollutants as well as genetic factors. Nitric oxide (NO) has potential mutagenic and carcinogenic activity and may play an important role in lung cancer. Endothelial NO, synthesized from L‐arginine by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), inhibits apoptosis and promotes angiogenesis and tumor cell proliferation. The aim of the present study was to examine the possible relationship between eNOS gene intron 4 variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) and exon 7‐G894T (Glu298Asp)polymorphisms and lung cancer risk.

Methods

DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes of 107 lung cancer patients and 100 control subjects. Designated polymorphisms were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

Results

Our study showed that the frequencies of theb/bgenotype andballele of eNOS gene intron 4 VNTR polymorphism were significantly higher in lung cancer patients than in controls (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant association betweeneNOS gene G894Tpolymorphism and lung cancer risk (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

These results suggest that the presence of the intron 4 VNTR*ballele andb/bgenotype may be a genetic risk factor for development of lung cancer. Further larger‐scale studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Is bronchoscopic view a reliable method in diagnosis of tracheobronchial aspergillosis in critically ill non‐neutropenic patients?
Authors: Youssif Sahar Farghly , Hassan Elham Ahmed , Moharram Ahmed Mohamed , Farhan Mohammed Ameen , Badary Dalia M. , Hasan Ali Adel Azeem
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Pulmonary aspergillosis is the main respiratory fungal infection however; its diagnosis is missed or delayed in critically ill non‐neutropenic patients. Despite the utility of fiberoptic bronchoscopy for the evaluation of tracheobronchial aspergillosis (TBA) in immunocompromised patients has been extensively studied, however its utility in critically ill non‐neutropenic patients is underestimated.

Objectives

To assess the bronchoscopic changes suspected TBA relative to the microbiological and histopathological aspects in critically ill non‐neutropenic patients admitted to respiratory intensive care unit (RICU).

Methods

We prospectively studied 139 critically ill non‐neutropenic patients admitted to RICU and had a clinical suspicion of broncho‐pulmonary Aspergillus infection. Those patients were subjected to clinical and bronchoscopic assessment for the evaluation of suspected TBA. Microbiological culture of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and histopathological examination of tracheobronchial biopsies were done.

Results

Bronchoscopic changes suspected TBA were found in 48.2% of patients (67/139), where Aspergillus infection was confirmed microbiologically in 59.7% (40/67) and histopathologically in 56.7% (38/67). Of these changes, whitish plaques ± ulcers, pseudomembrane and/or sticky secretion with hyperemic mucosa were detected in 68.7%, 26.9% and 16.4% respectively. These changes were mostly seen in the main bronchi (54/67; 80.6%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive, negative predictive values and overall accuracy of these bronchoscopic changes as compared with BAL fluid results were 83.3%, 70.3%, 53.2%, 91.2% and 74.1% respectively.

Conclusions

Bronchoscopy could be a reliable procedure for TBA diagnosis in critically ill non‐neutropenic patients. Whitish plaques ± ulcers were the prominent bronchoscopic changes with reasonable diagnostic accuracy for prediction of TBA.
Relationship between right ventricular dilatation and blood copeptin levels in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Usul Eren , Ozkan Seda , Höke Mehmet Hilmi , Kaya Aynur Ecevit , Ucar Fatma , Cimen Tolga
Published: June 2020

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to investigate the importance of copeptin in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism, detection of right ventricular dilatation and clinical severity and prognosis of pulmonary embolism.

Materials and Methods

In the study three groups were created; Group 1: Pulmonary embolism patients with right ventricular dilatation in echocardiography, Group 2: Pulmonary embolism patients without right ventricular dilatation in echocardiography, Group 3: Healthy people. Five mL of venous blood was collected for the measurement of serum copeptin from the patients and control group. D‐dimer and troponin were studied with routine blood samples. Complaints, symptom and physical examination findings, tomography and echocardiography results, laboratory results of patients and treatments they received were recorded for the statistical analysis.

Results

Copeptin levels of acute pulmonary embolism patients were significantly higher than healthy individuals (P < 0.001). Copeptin values of Group 1 patients were significantly higher than Group 2 patients and Group 3 patients (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference the levels of copeptin, D‐dimer and troponin between patients with right ventricular dilatation and patients without right ventricular dilatation (P < 0.05). AUC value in detecting right ventricular dilatation of copeptin was found to be 0.82, while specificity was 83.3% and sensitivity was 69.6%. Copeptin, D‐dimer and troponin levels of patients with increased pulmonary artery pressure were statistically significantly higher than patients with normal pulmonary artery pressure (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Copeptin can be used in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism and in the detection of right ventricular dilatation in pulmonary embolism.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of a neck mass
Authors: Gilani Syed M. , Levi Angelique
Published: June 2020

This educational case highlights the importance of identifying key cytologic features of a tumor with basaloid cells presenting as neck mass.
Over the limit? Testing non‐linear associations between alcohol outlets and young adults' alcohol consumption
Authors: Foster Sarah , Hooper Paula , Divitini Mark , Knuiman Matthew , Trapp Georgina
Published: June 2020

Introduction and Aims

By specifying a threshold at which the number of liquor licences has the most impact on local populations, authorities can work to restrict licence approvals and help prevent alcohol‐related harm.

Design and Methods

Raine Study Generation 2 participants reported their alcohol intake at 22 years (n = 843) and liquor licences within 1600 m of participants' homes were mapped. Analyses examined associations between licences (all licences, on‐premise licences, liquor stores) and alcohol intake (g ethanol per day). Two models were fitted: (i) forced a straight‐line relationship; and (ii) allowed a curved relationship via restricted cubic splines.

Results

The straight‐line and curved models showed significant relationships with all licences (P = 0.002 and P = 0.002 respectively) and on‐premise licences (P = 0.006 and P = 0.01 respectively), but not liquor stores (P = 0.065 and P = 0.13 respectively). The straight‐line model indicated that alcohol consumption increased, on average, by 0.15 g per day for each additional licence and 0.17 g per day for each additional on‐premise licence. The curved model indicated that consumption increased by around 0.4 g per day for each additional licence from 0 to 10, but increases were negligible for additional licences beyond 10. The curved model provided a better overall fit to the data than the straight‐line model (R2 9.52% vs. 9.18%), but the improvement in fit did not quite reach statistical significance (P = 0.08). The curvature was similar, but less pronounced for on‐premise licences (R2 9.11% vs. 8.95%; P = 0.23).

Discussion and Conclusions

Results suggest a possible saturation point at which additional licences have a smaller effect on the alcohol intake of 22‐year‐olds living in metropolitan Perth.
Morphological and genetic diversity of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi (Günther, 1874): Is it relevant to its conservation?
Authors: Pérez‐Cembranos Ana , Pérez‐Mellado Valentín , Alemany Iris , Bassitta Marta , Terrasa Bàrbara , Picornell Antonia , Castro José A. , Brown Richard P. , Ramon Cori
Published: June 2020

Aims

To characterize the genetic and morphological diversification of the endangered Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi and to assess the relevance of this diversity, and how it is described, to conservation measures.

Location

This study covers all the populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, present in its range of distribution at coastal islets of Menorca, Mallorca and Cabrera Archipelago.

Methods

We analysed genetic and morphological variation across the 43 known extant populations of the Balearic lizard, using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We examined morphometric and scalation characters using, in some cases, phylogenetically independent contrasts. We also incorporated the study of dorsal coloration and dorsal colour pattern including the analysis of melanism in several populations.

Results

We detected clear genetic divergence between Menorcan populations and populations from Mallorca and Cabrera, in both nuclear and mtDNA markers, but genetic divergence is relatively low among different insular populations within these groups. In contrast, morphological divergence was substantial both between Menorcan and remaining populations and within these groups. Morphological traits, such as dorsal coloration, body size and the number and size of scales, seemed to be linked with differences in climatic conditions between populations. In addition, some traits, as melanism, showed a strong phylogenetic signal.

Main conclusions

The morphological and genetic diversity of the Balearic lizard is incongruent with the subspecies described in the classical taxonomic literature. Moreover, current populations differ not only in some genetic and morphological features, but also in several ecological and ethological characteristics, in many cases unique to one population. Based on our results, we propose abandoning the use of subspecies to describe the extraordinary morphological diversity of the Balearic lizard and its replacement with the concept of evolutionary significant units (ESUs). ESUs are particularly suitable to describe and recognize such diversity and, especially, to ensure the continuity of the evolutionary process.
Global Value Chains, Industrial Policy and Economic Upgrading in Ethiopia's Apparel Sector
Authors: Whitfield Lindsay , Staritz Cornelia , Morris Mike
Published: June 2020

This article examines whether low‐income countries can still benefit from participating in manufacturing global value chains (GVCs) in terms of broader industrial development in a global context of greater competition and higher requirements. It contends that developing internationally competitive local firms and domestic linkages, in addition to upgrading, is crucial for participation in GVCs to drive industrialization. The study focuses on Ethiopia's recent experience with developing an apparel export industry through strategic industrial policy. Based on original empirical data collected through firm‐level surveys and interviews with government officials, industry experts and buyers, the article analyses the upgrading and localization trajectories of foreign and local apparel‐exporting firms. It argues that value‐capture benefits in assembly positions in apparel GVCs have become more difficult. The potential for localization benefits depends on the type of global buyers and foreign producers and their levels of embeddedness, but whether this potential is realized also depends on local firm characteristics and related industrial policy. Ethiopia's industrial policy has been relatively successful regarding national economy linkages, but less successful in developing competitive local export firms due to a weak local manufacturing tradition combined with a global context that has led to a supplier squeeze.
A theology of pastoral multiplicity
Authors: Gano Lindner Cynthia
Published: June 2020

The contemporary moment is characterized by liquidity and difference. “Liquidity” means rapidly changing social structures, accelerations in consumption, and constantly changing personal and group identities. In this increasingly diverse context, encounters with difference are not only inevitable, they are essential—and can be transformative for our understandings of our multiple selves, for our pastoral encounters with others, and for our theological imagination, as well. Viewing the self, especially the pastor's self, as a collection of multiple selves, identities, and performances illumines pastoral leadership; pastors who claim their multiplicity more wholly meet “others” when encountering difference. The triune God reveals divine multiplicity, so pastors who claim their multiplicity as their identity thereby make a theological claim.
Risk factors for academic difficulties in children with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated acute demyelinating syndromes
Authors: Deiva Kumaran , Cobo‐Calvo Alvaro , Maurey Hélène , De Chalus Alienor , Yazbeck Elise , Husson Béatrice , Vukusic Sandra , Serguerra Che , Horellou Philippe , Marignier Romain ,   Kidbiosep Cohort
Published: June 2020

Aim

To describe cognitive abilities through the evaluation of academic difficulties in children with acute demyelinating syndromes (ADS) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies.

Method

This was an observational, retrospective study of a French paediatric cohort that included children aged 18 years and younger. Clinical, biological, and imaging data were collected and academic outcome was measured.

Results

Seventy‐six children were included in the study with a mean (SD) follow‐up of 4 years 7 months (6y 4mo). Median age at disease onset was 9 years 1 months (interquartile range=4y 7mo–13y 11mo; 36 females, 40 males). Thirty‐six children relapsed and 20 had academic difficulties at the last follow‐up. Academic difficulties, as well as deep grey matter and putaminal lesions (p=0.047 and p=0.006 respectively), were significantly more prevalent in children aged 10 years and younger (p=0.02). Using univariate binary regression analysis, we found that age at disease onset of 10 years and younger (odds ratio [OR] 3.72 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.19–11.64]; p=0.024), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis at disease onset (OR 52.5 [95% CI 5.97–461.4]; p<0.001), and deep grey matter lesions (OR 17.33 [95% CI 3.87–77.72]; p<0.001) were associated with academic difficulties.

Interpretation

MOG antibody‐associated ADS have distinct clinical and radiological patterns that are age‐dependent. Indirect cognitive evaluation through academic difficulties was prevalent in younger children and is associated with specific clinical and magnetic resonance imaging factors that need to be considered earlier on when assessing this patient population.
Suction samplers are a valuable tool to sample arthropod assemblages for conservation translocation
Authors: Helbing Felix , Fartmann Thomas , Poniatowski Dominik
Published: June 2020

An important component of recent nature conservation is the ecological restoration of semi‐natural grasslands. The aim of such projects is usually the restoration of typical plant communities; translocation of animals, by contrast, plays only a minor role. This is based on the assumption that a recovery of the flora will lead to recovered fauna; however, this is not always the case. Suction samplers with gauze collection bags are well suited to sample arthropods, and they may also be helpful for transferring animals. However, to date, the suitability of suction samplers as a translocation tool is unclear due to a lack of empirical data on the mortality rate of the sampled arthropod taxa. In this study, we sampled arthropods (leafhoppers, spiders, beetles, and true bugs) with a suction sampler on 21 calcareous grasslands. Immediately after sampling, animals were stored in collection bags and their mortality rate was determined. We compared storage periods (1, 2, and 3 h) and tested the suitability of a cool box to reduce mortality rates. Our study revealed that arthropod mortality was generally low (9% of all sampled individuals); however, the survival rate was affected by (1) storage time, (2) storage conditions, and (3) arthropod group. The mortality of beetles and true bugs was very low and not influenced by storage time or storage conditions. In contrast, leafhoppers and spiders had higher mortality, which increased with storage time and decreased by the use of a cool box. According to our results, suction samplers can be a valuable tool to sample arthropod assemblages for conservation translocation. In order to reduce mortality in sensitive groups such as leafhoppers and spiders, the storage process can be optimised. We thus recommend (1) using a cool box and (2) minimising the period until release of the collected arthropods at the restored site.