bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete metabolic response with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography predicts survival following induction chemotherapy and radical cystectomy in clinically lymph node positive bladder cancer
Authors: Abrahamsson Johan , Kollberg Petter , Almquist Helen , Bläckberg Mats , Brändstedt Johan , Lyttkens Kerstin , Simoulis Athanasios , Sjödahl Gottfrid , Sörenby Anne , Trägårdh Elin , Liedberg Fredrik
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine whether repeated [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG‐PET‐CT) scans can predict increased cancer‐specific survival (CSS) after induction chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and Methods

Between 2007 and 2018, 86 patients with clinically lymph node (LN)‐positive bladder cancer (T1–T4, N1–N3, M0–M1a) were included and underwent a repeated FDG‐PET‐CT during cisplatin‐based induction chemotherapy. The 71 patients that had a response to chemotherapy underwent RC. Response to chemotherapy was evaluated in LNs through repeated FDG‐PET‐CT and stratified as partial response or complete response using three different methods: maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax), adapted Deauville criteria, and total lesion glycolysis (TLG). Progression‐free survival (PFS) and CSS were analysed for all three methods by Cox regression analysis.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 40 months, 15 of the 71 patients who underwent RC had died from bladder cancer. Using SUVmax and the adapted Deauville criteria, multivariable Cox regression analyses adjusting for age, clinical tumour stage and LN stage showed that complete response was associated with increased PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 3.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20–9.77) and CSS (HR 3.30, 95% CI 1.02–10.65). Using TLG, a complete response was also associated with increased PFS (HR 5.17, 95% CI 1.90–14.04) and CSS (HR 6.32, 95% CI 2.06–19.41).

Conclusions

Complete metabolic response with FDG‐PET‐CT predicts survival after induction chemotherapy followed by RC in patients with LN‐positive bladder cancer and comprises a novel tool in evaluating response to chemotherapy before surgery. This strategy has the potential to tailor treatment in individual patients by identifying significant response to chemotherapy, which motivates the administration of a full course of induction chemotherapy with a higher threshold for suspending treatment due to toxicity and side‐effects.
Does higher education make a difference? The influence of educational attainment on women's and men's nonstandard employment outcomes
Authors: Mitri Katelyn
Published: February 2021

Some studies suggest that women and the less educated are more likely to be employed in nonstandard work. However, conflicting evidence has indicated that temporary, part‐time, and nonstandard self‐employment has diffused across different social groups and levels of education. Using pooled data from the 1997–2018 Canadian Labour Force Surveys, this study explores the changing relationship between higher education, gender, and employment outcomes. Taking a multiple logistic regression approach, this study accomplishes three objectives: (1) to examine the relationship between gender and education among different forms of nonstandard employment; (2) to investigate the changes of different forms of nonstandard employment between 1997 to 2018; (3) to analyze the association between men's and women's education and their likelihood of different forms of nonstandard employment are explored. The findings suggest the feminization of employment norms, in which men and women have had some convergence in certain types of nonstandard employment. This result holds across most levels of education, but is more pronounced for women and men with higher levels of education.
Study into the cold pad‐batch application of monochloro‐s‐triazinyl and m‐carboxypyridinium‐s‐triazinyl reactive dyes bearing various “second‐leg” N‐substituents
Authors: Huang Huei‐Chin , Wu Chun‐Guey
Published: February 2021

A series of monochloro‐s‐triazinyl (MCT) and related m‐carboxypyridinium‐s‐triazinyl (nicotinic acid [NTR]) reactive dyes based on the same red chromophore and bearing –NHCN, –OCH3, –N(CH3)SO2CH3, –N‐methylphenyl and –OH “second‐leg” substituents were evaluated in cold pad‐batch dyeing. It was found that both the MCT and NTR dyes containing a cyanoamino second‐leg substituent displayed a superior technical performance to the dyes bearing methoxy, N‐methyl(methylsulphonyl)amino, hydroxyl and N‐methylaniline substituents. The results suggest that these technical benefits of dyeing are derived from the smaller molecule size and electronic effect of the cyanoamino group compared with the other second‐leg substituents commonly used in both MCT and NTR reactive dye synthesis. Indeed, the use of the cyanoamino second leg on the studied red NTR reactive dyes offered a combination of short batch time, high fixation efficiency, good build‐up properties and good wet fastness properties.
Variability of stem solidness among miscanthus genotypes and its role on mechanical properties of polypropylene composites
Authors: Brancourt‐Hulmel Maryse , Raverdy Raphaël , Girones Jordi , Arnoult Stéphanie , Mignot Emilie , Griveaux Yves , Navard Patrick
Published: February 2021

Miscanthus (Miscanthus Andersson) is a perennial grass that is attracting growing interest from the biomaterial industry. Our aim was to compare miscanthus genotypes varying in stem solidness, a measure of degree to which pith fills cavity between the outer walls of the stem, and analyze whether this trait influences the mechanical properties of polypropylene composites reinforced with miscanthus particles. Six contrasting genotypes were chosen from a Miscanthus sinensis population to determine morphological variables, stem solidness, and mechanical properties of polypropylene composites including 30% of milled miscanthus particles of two sizes of 100 < × < 200 μm and 200 < × < 300 μm. Although aboveground biomass of miscanthus was closely related to the aboveground volume of the plant, namely stand volume, a few genotypes showed contrasting aboveground biomass production for similar stand volumes. This generated contrasting ratio between aboveground biomass and stand volume, namely plant‐specific weights, for similar plant volumes. A principal component analysis showed that fully pith‐filled stems, namely solid stems, were explained by a large stand volume and plant‐specific weights as well as small stem cross‐sections. Genotypes showing partially filled stems were taller with larger stem cross‐sections but smaller plant‐specific weights. They revealed high lignin and p‐coumaric acid contents. Compared to neat‐polypropylene, Young's modulus increased significantly by 139% and 134% and tensile strength by 39% and 36% for genotypes with partially filled stems compared to genotypes with fully pith‐filled stems, respectively. This difference in reinforcing capacity was similar to that of two particle sizes (139% and 134% for Young's modulus, 41% and 34% for tensile strength, respectively). A good tensile strength was obtained with large cross‐stem section, plant height and lignin and p‐coumaric acid contents. It decreased with plant‐specific weight, hemicellulose and ferulic acid contents. Wider morphological variations in other progenies or Miscanthus species should be explored further using the techniques reported here.
Networks do not float freely: (Dis)entangling the politics of Tamil diaspora inclusion in development governance
Authors: Craven Catherine Ruth
Published: February 2021

Scholarship on diaspora engagement strategies has suggested that such strategies are embedded either in binary state‐diaspora relations, or global structures of domination. This paper builds on the idea that diaspora engagement is contextually embedded but complicates the understanding of this context, by moving beyond structuralist or state‐centric models. It draws on a range of relational theories, to suggest that diaspora engagement strategies in the development field are contextually embedded in complex entanglements of power relations. Data from a multi‐method study of the Tamil diaspora in Toronto, from 2009 to 2018, reveals that inclusion in these diaspora engagement strategies is shaped by an entanglement of power relations, which include social networks, and legitimacy claims in overlapping cultural fields, but also spatial relations, whereby geography and material resources are often‐overlooked dimensions of this space.
Delineating the corporate elite: Inquiring the boundaries and composition of interlocking directorate networks
Authors: Huijzer M. Jouke , Heemskerk Eelke M.
Published: February 2021

Corporate elite studies have for long investigated networks of interlocking directorates to test and corroborate key theoretical expectations regarding the cohesive organization of such an elite and their ability and willingness to act on behalf of general business interests. These studies typically collect data on a list of 50, 100, 200 or 500 corporations ranked by economic size, sometimes stratified in sectors. The sampling approach often follows previous studies in order to increase comparability. These relatively arbitrary sampling practices are problematic because they impact the empirical results and our therefore the conclusions drawn from it. Using a sample of 3251 Canada‐based corporations, we establish that indeed different sampling criteria – that is sample size, proportion of financial firms, inclusion of state‐owned enterprises and so on – significantly impacts network properties of corporate elite networks. We establish rather disturbing differences, especially for smaller sample sizes (<100). Subsequently, we develop alternative demarcation criteria of the corporate elite based on ak‐core decomposition. We conclude by emphasizing that the sampling decisions in interlocking directorate studies should much more be carefully be thought through in future research on the topic, both in corporate elite studies and beyond.
Qualitative network analysis for migration studies: Beyond metaphors and epistemological pitfalls
Authors: Ryan Louise , Dahinden Janine
Published: February 2021

In this introductory article, we as guest editors set out the key ambitions and arguments of the Special Issue and highlight our contribution to social network research within migration studies. We argue that social network analysis has the potential to address epistemological pitfalls in migration research especially in overcoming the metaphoric use of networks as well as nation‐state and ethnicity‐centred epistemologies. Moreover, we suggest that adopting a qualitative approach to social networks not only changes how we research networks but also what we understand them to be. While seeking to go beyond metaphors and delve into the tool box of SNA, in order to gain deeper understandings of social networks, we argue that this cannot mean purely quantitative research techniques. We draw upon the early roots of social network research, within anthropology, to find inspiration and consider the contribution of qualitative approaches to analysing dynamic social relationships and to including neglected aspects like meaning making and agency. Adopting a reflexive approach enables us to de‐migranticise our research turning the role of migration and ethnicity for social networks into an empirical question rather than taking them as an essentialist starting point for investigation.

The Special Issue brings together an integrated set of articles drawn from a social networks and migration symposium. Using qualitative and mixed methods approaches, these articles focus on a diverse range of geographical and social contexts. In so doing, the authors offer new methodological and epistemological insights into migrants’ social networks.
The effects of manual therapy and exercises on pain, muscle strength, joint health, functionality and quality of life in haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow joint: A randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Tat Ayse Merve , Can Filiz , Tat Necati Muhammed , Sasmaz Hatice Ilgen , Antmen Ali Bulent
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Effective physiotherapy interventions are required for haemophilic arthropathy (HA) of the elbow due to its biomechanical differences and contribution to upper limb functionality.

Aim

To investigate the effects of manual therapy & exercises on bleeding frequency, pain, range of motion (ROM), strength, joint health, functionality and quality of life (QoL) in HA of the elbow.

Methods

Seventeen participants with HA of the elbow were randomized as Manual Therapy & Exercises Group (MTEG = 9) and Home Exercises Group (HEG = 8). Soft tissue mobilization, joint traction (grade I‐II) and Mulligan's mobilization with movement as manual therapy, and stretching/strengthening exercises were applied to MTEG, while HEG had only same exercises as home programme. The interventions lasted 3 days/weekly for 5 weeks. Bleeding frequency was evaluated with patients’ records; pain with Numeric Pain Scale; ROM with goniometer; strength with digital dynamometer; joint health with HJHS; functionality with Quick‐Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; and QoL with Oxford Elbow Score.

Results

Bleeding frequency and activity pain were decreased, while elbow ROMs and flexor strength were increased in MTEG (P ˂ 0.05). Also significantly improvements were seen in joint health, functionality and QoL in MTEG. HEG showed improvements in activity pain, QoL and some ROMs. MTEG had better results in ROMs, joint health and functionality (P ˂ 0.05).

Conclusion

Manual therapy & exercises may be used without causing bleeding and pain to increase the functionality, joint health and QoL, and is superior to home exercise for joint health and functionality. Home exercises may be ameliorated in pain, QoL and some ROMs.
Evaluation of epidemiology, clinical features, prognosis, diagnosis and treatment outcomes of patients with COVID‐19 in West Azerbaijan Province
Authors: Gharebaghi Naser , Farshid Saman , Boroofeh Behdad , Nejadrahim Rahim , Mousavi Jalil , Dindarian Sina , Mohammadi Sedra
Published: February 2021

Background

COVID‐19 is considered a widespread concern in global public health. Diagnoses of COVID‐19 in some cases are necessary because of severe prognosis. In this study, epidemiologies, clinical and demographic characteristics of patients with COVID‐19 were studied in Taleghani Hospital, Urmia, Iran.

Methods

This descriptive‐analytical cross‐sectional study was carried out on 215 patients with COVID‐19 during March and April 2020. Approved COVID‐19 case was considered as a person with a positive respiratory sample performed by at least one of two RT‐PCR methods or genetic sequencing. ANOVA repeated measure, independent t‐test and logistic regression were done. A P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

The mean age of patients was 50.93 ± 17.92 years. Regarding gender, there were 91 females (42.3%) and 124 males (57.7%). The mean hospital stay, the temperature at admission, and onset of symptoms were 4.91 ± 3.68 days, 37.40 ± 0.96°C and 5.88 ± 4.80 days, respectively. Close contact with suspected people was found in 10.2% of patients. Additionally, 44 patients (20.5%) were smokers. Shortness of breath and cough were found in 62.8% and 49.3% of patients. Diabetes mellitus and hypertension were the most common comorbidities of patients. Regarding lung involvement, 33 patients (33%) were normal, most of the patients (n = 71) had 5%‐25% involvement in their lung and a minority of patients (n = 13) had a severe condition of 50%‐75% lung involvement. The association between smoking and mortality was tested using chi‐square showing no significant difference (X2:2.959, P = .085). There was no significant difference between AST, ALT, ALP, total, direct Bilirubin, lung involvement and suffering from fever (P > .05). High Spo2 can increase the chance of recovery by 24% with each unit reduction. Kidney involvement increases the chance of death by about 80% (95% CI: 0.104‐0.013). The odds ratio of spo2 for recovery of COVID‐19 was 1.24 (95% CI: 1.014‐1.528; P = .037). Kaletra with odds ratio of 31.960 had the most highest effect on recovery following COVID‐19 (P = .043).

Conclusion

COVID‐19 involves different organs of the body with different severity. In the meantime, smoking was not a risk factor for the virus or associated with severe manifestations of the disease. Patients with high creatinine and CPK, pulmonary involvement above 25%, and hypoxemia had a higher mortality rate. Increase of Spo2 by 1% can improve the patients by 24%. The results indicated that Kaletra had the most highest effect on improvement following COVID‐19.
Physical activity behaviour and screen time in Dutch children during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Pre‐, during‐ and post‐school closures
Authors: ten Velde Gabrielle , Lubrecht Judith , Arayess Lisanne , van Loo Christiana , Hesselink Marijn , Reijnders Dorien , Vreugdenhil Anita
Published: February 2021

Background

Measures during the COVID‐19 pandemic, including the closure of schools and sports facilities, may have lasting impact on the physical activity (PA) of children that persists for a long time.

Objective

To investigate the effect of COVID‐19 measures on screen time and PA in Dutch children pre‐, during‐ and post‐school closures.

Methods

In cohort A (n = 102, 10.5 ± 3.6 years, 42.4% boys), data on PA and screen time during the lockdown were collected using a questionnaire. In cohort B (n = 131, 10.2 ± 0.9 years, 43.5% boys), data on PA and screen time were collected using a questionnaire and accelerometry 1 year before and after school closure.

Results

In cohort A, 62% reported less total PA. Self‐reported screen time on week days increased 34 ± 105 min/d during the lockdown. In cohort B, sedentary time as measured by accelerometry, increased by 45 ± 67 min/d and only 20% reached PA levels of 60 min/d compared to 64% in May 2019. Self‐reported screen time increased by 59 ± 112 min/d and 62 ± 130 min/d during week and weekend days, respectively.

Conclusions

Children were less physically active, and screen time was higher during and after the school closures due to the COVID‐19 lockdown. This is alarming as an active lifestyle in children is crucial in preventing chronic diseases such as obesity.
Factors associated with family functioning in patients with heart failure and their family members: An international cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shamali Mahdi , Konradsen Hanne , Svavarsdottir Erla K. , Shahriari Mohsen , Ketilsdottir Audur , Østergaard Birte
Published: February 2021

Aims

To describe and compare family functioning, family health, and perceived social support from nurses and to identify the variables that are associated with family functioning in patients with heart failure (HF) and their family members in Denmark, Iran, and Iceland.

Design

An international multi‐centre cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A sample of 1382 participants (692 patients and 690 family members) from Denmark, Iceland, and Iran were included from January 2015 to May 2020. Data were collected using the Family Functioning, Health, and Social Support questionnaire.

Results

The significant factors associated with family functioning in patients were country, New York Heart Association classification (NYHA), education level, age, family health, social support, and there was a significant interaction effect between NYHA class and gender. The significant factors associated with family functioning in family members were country, education level, work status, family health, and there was a significant interaction effect between education and work status.

Conclusion

This study indicated that the strongest factor associated with higher family functioning was family health for both patients and family members. Women in NYHA class I and younger patients and those with an academic education had a lower level of family functioning. Moreover, unemployed family members with an elementary education and family members with elementary and high school educations who were self‐employed or employees had a lower level of family functioning.

Impact

This is the first international study to investigate family functioning, family health, and social support and adds to the literature on the factors associated with family functioning in patients with HF and their family members. Our findings may help nurses to identify the most vulnerable families living with HF, thereby being able to provide special support to enhance their family functioning to promote self‐management strategies.
His–Purkinje system longitudinal dissociation: From bench to bedside. A case of output‐dependent fascicular capture
Authors: Marinaccio Leonardo , Vetta Francesco , Ignatiuk Barbara , Giacopelli Daniele , Patrassi Luigia A. , Marchese Domenico
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Histological studies reported that the His bundle (HB) is partitioned into narrow cords by collagen running in its long axis, providing the anatomical setting necessary for its longitudinal dissociation. Further confirmations came from the demonstration that direct HB pacing normalizes the QRS axis and duration in subjects with proximal HB lesions causing bundle branch block. However, there is no evidence of the possibility of selective HB partitions pacing destined to the composition of branches and fascicles.

Methods and Results: We describe a case of intra‐Hisian left bundle branch block in which permanent distal HB pacing corrects left ventricular delay and produces different QRS morphology at different voltage outputs, as an expression of different selective HB compartments recruitment.

Conclusion: This case would strengthen the limited data in the literature about HB longitudinal dissociation.
Use of the inverse solution guidance algorithm method for RF ablation catheter guidance
Authors: Lv Wener , Barrett Conor D. , Arai Tatsuya , Bapat Aneesh , Armoundas Antonis A. , Cohen Richard J. , Lee Kichang
Published: February 2021

Introduction

We previously introduced the inverse solution guidance algorithm (ISGA) methodology using a Single Equivalent Moving Dipole model of cardiac electrical activity to localize both the exit site of a re‐entrant circuit and the tip of a radiofrequency (RF) ablation catheter. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of ISGA for ablation catheter guidance in an animal model.

Methods

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) was simulated by rapid ventricular pacing at a target site in eleven Yorkshire swine. The ablation target was established using three different techniques: a pacing lead placed into the ventricular wall at the mid‐myocardial level (Type‐1), an intracardiac mapping catheter (Type‐2), and an RF ablation catheter placed at a random position on the endocardial surface (Type‐3). In each experiment, one operator placed the catheter/pacing lead at the target location, while another used the ISGA system to manipulate the RF ablation catheter starting from a random ventricular location to locate the target.

Results

The average localization error of the RF ablation catheter tip was 0.31 ± 0.08 cm. After analyzing approximately 35 cardiac cycles of simulated VT, the ISGA system's accuracy in locating the target was 0.4 cm after four catheter movements in the Type‐1 experiment, 0.48 cm after six movements in the Type‐2 experiment, and 0.67 cm after seven movements in the Type‐3 experiment.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the feasibility of using the ISGA method to guide an ablation catheter to the origin of a VT focus by analyzing a few beats of body surface potentials without electro‐anatomic mapping.
Lead damage after cardiac implantable device replacement procedure: Comparison between electrical plasma tool and electrocautery
Authors: Ananwattanasuk Teetouch , Jamé Sina , Bogun Frank M. , Chugh Aman , Crawford Thomas C. , Cunnane Ryan , Ghanbari Hamid , Latchamsetty Rakesh , Lathkar‐Pradhan Sangeeta , Oral Hakan , Pelosi Frank , Saeed Mohammed , Jongnarangsin Krit
Published: February 2021

Background

Lead damage is a complication caused by lead manipulation or heating damage from conventional electrocautery (EC) after cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) replacement. Application of electrical plasma (PEAK PlasmaBlade) is a new technology that reportedly reduces this risk.

Objectives

This study was designed to compare the effect of EC versus PEAK PlasmaBlade on lead parameters and complications after generator replacement procedures.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 410 consecutive patients (840 leads) who underwent CIED replacement using EC (EC group) and 410 consecutive patients (824 leads) using PEAK PlasmaBlade (PlamaBlade group). Pacing lead impedance, incidence of lead damage, and complications were compared between both groups.

Results

Lead impedance increased in 393 leads (46.8%) in the EC group versus 282 leads (34.2%) in the PlasmaBlade group (p < .01) with average percent changes of 6.7% and 4.0% (p < .01), respectively. Lead impedance decreased in 438 leads (52.1%) in the EC group versus 507 leads (61.5%) in the PlasmaBlade group (p < .01) with average percent changes of −5.7% and −7.1% (p < .01), respectively. Lead damage requiring lead revision occurred in five leads (0.6%) or after five procedures (1.2%) in the EC group compared to three leads (0.4%, p = .50) or after three procedures (0.7%, p = .48) in the PlasmaBlade group. There were no significant differences in the procedural‐related complications between the EC group (nine patients, 2.2%) and the PlasmaBlade group (five patients, 1.2%, p = .28).

Conclusion

Conventional electrocautery can potentially damage lead insulations. However, this study shows that when used carefully electrocautery is as safe as the PEAK PlasmaBlade™.
QTc shortening effect of ganglionated plexi ablation
Authors: Aksu Tolga , Bozyel Serdar , Yalin Kivanc , Tanboga Ibrahim H. , Gopinathannair Rakesh
Published: February 2021

Background

In previous studies, patients undergoing ablation of ganglionated plexi (GPA) for vagally mediated bradyarrhythmias were noted to have shortening of their corrected QT interval (QTc).

Aims

To compare the effects of GPA (group 1) to pulmonary vein isolation + GPA (group 2) on QTc.

Material and Methods

We enrolled 39 patients, n = 25 in group 1 and n = 14 in group 2. QTc was calculated at baseline, at 24 h after ablation, and at 9‐12 months in the follow‐up. Recurrent syncope, asystole >2 s, and/or second‐ or third‐degree AVB episodes were carefully documented as the primary outcome in group 1. Any atrial arrhythmia ≥30 seconds documented on 24‐h Holter monitoring was defined as the primary outcome in group 2.

Results

The mean follow‐up time was 14.9 ± 4 months. Acute success was achieved in all cases. In whole cohort, a significant shortening on QTcBazett, QTcFramingham, QTcFredericia, and QTcHodges was observed [416 vs 398ms (p = .002), 411vs 378 ms (p < .001), 412 vs 379ms (p < .001), and 420 vs 383ms (p < .001), respectively]. In the linear mixed model analysis, the longitudinal reduction tendency in the QTc level was more pronounced in group 1. Event‐free survival was detected in 90.7% (59/65) of cases.

Discussion

Our results demonstrate a significant shortening of QTc in addition to high medium‐term success rates after GPA. Pulmonary vein isolation + GPA was associated with lower QTc shortening effect which implies structural disease may change electrophysiological response to ablation. The most likely mechanism is the effect of GPA on the sympathetic system.
Thermal effects in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) F1 embryos (farmed female × wild thermal‐resistant male)
Authors: Crichigno Sonia A. , Orellana Mabel , Larraza Rodrigo , Mirenna Guillermo , Cussac Víctor E.
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work was to investigate the response of rainbow trout embryos (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (i.e., survival, size at hatching, time to hatching, malformations) to four incubation temperatures (5.8, 8.9, 14.0 and 16.8°C), taking into account the origin of the male parental genome and comparing pure farmed and F1 embryos (farmed female × wild thermal‐resistant male). Several consequences of thermal stress were observed: lower accumulated thermal units (ATU) at hatching at high temperatures, and lower survival, shorter hatched free embryos and less‐consumed yolk sac at extreme temperatures. The effect of the thermal‐adapted male parental genome was shown only in the lower percentage of incompletely hatched free embryos in the F1 families. It appears that to obtain greater modification of thermal performance during early development, the adapted genome of the wild thermal‐resistant population has to be included through maternal inheritance, thus producing a stabilized strain selected for domesticity, growth and thermal adaptation.
Application of artificial intelligence in gastroenterology: Potential role in clinical practice
Authors: Kuo Chen‐Ya , Chiu Han‐Mo
Published: February 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) based on deep learning boosted medical research in the past years and is expected to enormously change the style of health care in many aspects in the foreseeable future. Nowadays, there are exploding volumes of healthcare‐related data being generated daily. Because of its time‐sensitive characteristics, being able to process large amounts of data in real‐time fashion is crucial in healthcare settings. In gastroenterology practice, AI can manage and interpret the sheer amount of data with different formats coming from a myriad of sources, including currently used endoscopic or imaging devices, digital record systems, and electronic health records, or from other sources such as governmental databases, social media, or wearable devices over a long period. Traditional gastroenterology is nowadays beginning to transform to a new personalized, predictive, and preventive paradigm. Evidence‐based practices and recent studies are coming out every day, and big data‐based approaches and the progress in basic sciences and its emerging applications are now becoming the indispensable part of precision medicine. In gastroenterology, AI can be applied in disease diagnosis, treatment guidance, outcome prediction, and reducing workload of the healthcare staff. As the healthcare community begins to embrace AI technology, how to seamlessly construct an interoperable platform to accommodate data with high variety and veracity with high velocity and implement AI in the clinical workflow would be the future challenges.
The prevention of osteoporosis and sarcopenia in older adults
Authors: Coll Patrick P. , Phu Steven , Hajjar Samah H. , Kirk Ben , Duque Gustavo , Taxel Pam
Published: February 2021

Osteoporosis and sarcopenia are common in older adults. Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Bone fractures can result in changes in posture, pain, the need for surgical repair and functional impairment. Sarcopenia is the progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength and/or physical performance. Older adults with sarcopenia experience increased risk of frailty, disability, hospitalizations, mortality, and a reduced quality of life. In this narrative review we provide guidance regarding the prevention of both osteoporosis and sarcopenia, including interventions that prevent both conditions from occurring, recommended screening and treatment to prevent progression.
A Case against a 4% Inflation Target
Authors: KARA ENGIN , YATES TONY
Published: February 2021

We reformulate the standard New Keynesian model to include heterogeneity in price stickiness suggested by microevidence on price changes and to allow for positive trend inflation. In the new model, higher trend inflation leads to a relatively greater long‐run output loss and, consequently, a smaller determinacy region than in the standard model. When trend inflation is 4%, the determinacy region of the new model is almost nonexistent, cautioning against increasing the inflation target to 4% as a means to avoid the zero lower bound in the future and pointing to the costs that high inflation may have had in the past.
Construction of P–T–t paths for eclogite in the Tongbai orogen by combining phase equilibria modelling with zircon inclusion composition
Authors: Zhang Qiang‐Qiang , Gao Xiao‐Ying , Zheng Yong‐Fei
Published: February 2021

The interpretation of metamorphic ages for zircon domains in eclogite remains challenging because of the uncertainties in interpreting their rare earth element (REE) patterns and mineral inclusions. This has seriously hindered the construction of robust pressure (P)–temperature (T)–time (t) paths for eclogites from collisional orogens. In this study, a composite approach is used to obtain a reliable P–T path for eclogite from the Tongbai orogen and quantitatively attribute zircon U–Pb ages to specific P–T intervals. An integrated study using isochemical phase diagram section (pseudosection) modelling, multi‐equilibrium thermobarometry, and the Zr‐in‐rutile thermometry with petrographic observations indicates that the target eclogite experienced multistage metamorphic evolution. The evolution is characterized by a clockwise P–T path with compressional heating for peak eclogite facies metamorphism at 588 ± 20°C and 26.7 ± 2.8 kbar and two stages of isothermal decompression from an early stage of amphibole eclogite facies metamorphism at 15–10 kbar to a late stage of amphibolite facies metamorphism at pressures of <10 kbar. Metamorphic zircon domains in eclogite and quartz vein show relatively flat patterns of heavy REE without notable Eu anomalies but different cathodoluminescence responses and middle REE (MREE) contents. This indicates their growth in different stages of eclogite facies metamorphism, which are categorized into two groups. The first group is composed of bright rims or homogenous grains that are characterized by low MREE contents, suggesting the existence of abundant amphibole during the metamorphism. The compositional isopleths of amphibole inclusions indicate that this group of zircon domains would form by hydration during crustal exhumation to amphibole eclogite facies at 240 ± 2 Ma. The second group consists of dark sector mantles and shows high MREE contents, indicating the prograde to peak metamorphism with significant decomposition of amphibole or lawsonite during crustal subduction to eclogite facies at 245 ± 2 Ma. Therefore, the combination of the isopleth thermobarometry of mineral inclusions with the Zr‐in‐rutile thermometry and the zircon REE partitioning is an effective means to link the metamorphic P–T conditions to the ages of metamorphic zircons in the different stages of collisional orogeny.
Influence of prominent immunomodulatory cytokines TNF‐α308 G>A (rs1800629) and TGFβ1 G>C (rs1800471) sequence variations as an important contributing factor in etiopathogenesis of recurrent miscarriages in Kashmiri women (North India)
Authors: Manzoor Usma , Pandith Arshad A. , Amin Ina , Wani Saima , Sanadhya Dheera , Ahmad Abida , Qasim Iqbal , Rashid Masarat , Anwar Iqra , Koul Aabid
Published: February 2021

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the genetic variation of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) 308 G>A (rs1800629) and transforming growth factor (TGF) β1G>C (rs1800471) to confer risk in patients with recurrent miscarriage in highly consanguineous population of Kashmir (North India).

Methods

A total of 200 women who experienced two or more recurrent miscarriages (along with 100 spouses, 60 products of conception, and 240 healthy controls) with two or more full‐term pregnancies were recruited from the same geographical region and evaluated by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results

TNF‐α 308 G>A variant genotype (AA) was significantly associated with recurrent miscarriage cases (2.5% vs. 0.4% controls, respectively; p < 0.05) and its per copy allele A also presented more in cases (32% vs. 24% in controls; p < 0.05) that showed a risk of 1.5‐fold for cases (p < 0.05). The difference of variant genotype GA was observed to be significant among recurrent miscarriage cases and product of conception: 60.5% vs. 83%, respectively (p < 0.05) wherein variant TNF‐α GA genotype conferred 3‐fold risk (p < 0.05). On the other hand, TGF β1 G>C showed no association with recurrent miscarriage cases in our population.

Conclusion

The study found both TNF‐α 308 G>A variants are significantly associated with an increased susceptibility for recurrent miscarriages to cause pregnancy losses but on the other hand TGF β1 does not seem to impact the outcome of pregnancy in our population.
Susceptibility‐Weighted Imaging in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Review
Authors: Sotoudeh Houman , Sarrami Amir Hossein , Wang Jian‐xiong , Saadatpour Zahra , Razaei Ali , Gaddamanugu Siddhartha , Choudhary Gagandeep , Shafaat Omid , Singhal Aparna
Published: February 2021

As human life expectancy increases, there is an increased prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders and dementia. There are many ongoing research trials for early diagnosis and management of dementia, and neuroimaging is a critical part of such studies. However, conventional neuroimaging often fails to provide enough diagnostic findings in patients with neurodegenerative disorders. In this context, different MRI sequences are currently under investigation to facilitate the accurate diagnosis of such disorders. Susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) is an innovative MRI technique that utilizes “magnitude” and “phase” images to produce an image contrast that is sensitive for the detection of susceptibility differences of the tissues. As many neurodegenerative disorders are associated with accelerated iron deposition and/or microhemorrhages in different parts of the brain, SWI can be applied to detect these diagnostic clues. For instance, in cerebral amyloid angiopathy, SWI can demonstrate cortical microhemorrhages, which are predominantly in the frontal and parietal regions. Or in Parkinson disease, abnormal swallow‐tail sign on high‐resolution SWI is highly diagnostic. Also, SWI is a useful sequence to detect the low signal intensity of precentral cortices in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Being familiar with SWI findings in neurodegenerative disorders is critical for an accurate diagnosis. In this paper, the authors review the technical parameters of SWI, physiologic, and pathologic iron deposition in the brain, and the role of SWI in the evaluation of neurodegenerative disorders in daily practice.
The role of Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oil, (E)‐cinnamaldehyde and (E)‐cinnamaldehyde oxime in the control of Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Ferreira Barros Aline , Paulo Campos Vicente , Lopes de Paula Letícia , Alaís Pedroso Luma , de Jesus Silva Fabíola , Carlos Pereira da Silva Júlio , Ferreira de Oliveira Denilson , Humberto Silva Geraldo
Published: February 2021

The search for natural nematicides that are biodegradable with little or no human toxicity has intensified in recent years. In this context, the use of essential oils has the potential to function as an alternative plant–parasitic nematode control strategy, and their characterization may identify new nematicidal molecules. In this study, the nematicidal activity of Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oil, its most abundant biochemical component and its analogue were evaluated against Meloidogyne incognita. Mean LC50 and LC95 values for C. zeylanicum oil were 49 µg/ml and 131 µg/ml, respectively. When J2 placed in C. zeylanicum oil at its LC50 concentration were used to inoculate tomato plants, the reduction in numbers of galls and eggs versus samples inoculated using J2 and no C. zeylanicum oil was 98%. C. zeylanicum essential oil reduced levels of M. incognita J2 that hatched 38%–54%, while carbofuran (positive control) did not prevent hatching. C. zeylanicum oil applied at a concentration of 800 µg/ml to a potted substrate containing infested tomato plants significantly reduced numbers of M. incognita galls. The cinnamaldehyde molecule within C. zeylanicum oil had LC50 and LC95 values of 64 and 768 µg/ml, respectively, while LC50 and LC95 values for cinnamaldehyde oxime were 323 and 529 µg/ml, respectively. Both cinnamaldehyde and its oxime inhibited hatching in M. incognita J2. These findings indicate that C. zeylanicum essential oil, its major biochemical component, cinnamaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde oxime (a cinnamaldehyde analogue) can be used to reduce levels of M. incognita.
Efficacy of hypophysectomy for the treatment of hypersomatotropism‐induced diabetes mellitus in 68 cats
Authors: Fenn Joe , Kenny Patrick J. , Scudder Christopher J. , Hazuchova Katarina , Gostelow Ruth , Fowkes Robert C. , Forcada Yaiza , Church David B. , Niessen Stijn J. M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Hypersomatotropism (HST) is an increasingly recognized endocrinopathy in cats and is mostly described associated with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transsphenoidal hypophysectomy in treating HST and DM in cats.

Animals

Sixty‐eight client‐owned cats with HST and DM treated by transsphenoidal hypophysectomy.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. Medical records were reviewed for glycemic control and serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) concentrations. Postoperative complications, death within 4 weeks, and proportion achieving diabetic remission were recorded. Survival times and DM‐free intervals were calculated.

Results

Fifty‐eight cats (85.3%) were alive 4 weeks postoperatively with 10 (15%) postoperative deaths. Complications included hypoglycemia (n = 9), electrolyte imbalance (n = 9), and transient congestive heart failure (n = 5). Fifty‐five cats (95% of 58 surviving cats [81% of all cats undergoing surgery]) had improved control of diabetes. Diabetic remission occurred in 41 cats (71% of 58 surviving cats [60% of all cats]) with insulin administration discontinued after a median of 9 days (range, 2‐120). Postoperative 4‐week serum IGF‐1 concentration nadir was significantly lower in cats achieving diabetic remission (median 20 ng/mL [15‐708] than those that did not (324 ng/mL [15‐1955]; P = .03). All cats received long‐term levothyroxine and hydrocortisone PO, alongside desmopressin (conjunctival) in 38 of 53 cats (72%). Recurrence of DM occurred in 5 of 41 cats (12%) after a median of 248 days (range, 84‐1232). Median survival time of all cats was 853 days (range, 1‐1740).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is an effective treatment for cats with HST and DM, with a long‐term outcome that compares favorably to existing options.
ZmSPL10/14/26 are required for epidermal hair cell fate specification on maize leaf
Authors: Kong Dexin , Pan Xuan , Jing Yifeng , Zhao Yongping , Duan Yaping , Yang Juan , Wang Baobao , Liu Yuting , Shen Rongxin , Cao Yingying , Wu Hong , Wei Hongbin , Wang Haiyang
Published: February 2021

The epidermal hair and stomata are two types of specialized structures on the surface of plant leaves. On mature maize leaves, stomatal complexes and three types of hairs are distributed in a stereotyped pattern on the adaxial epidermis. However, the spatiotemporal relationship between epidermal hair and stomata development and the regulatory mechanisms governing their formation in maize remain largely unknown.

Here, we report that three homologous ZmSPL transcription factors, ZmSPL10, ZmSPL14 and ZmSPL26, act in concert to promote epidermal hair fate on maize leaf. Cytological analyses revealed thatZmspl10/14/26triple mutants are completely glabrous, but possess ectopic stomatal files. Strikingly, the precursor cells for prickle and bicellular hairs are transdifferentiated into ectopic stomatal complexes in theZmspl10/14/26mutants.

Molecular analyses demonstrated that ZmSPL10/14/26 bind directly to the promoter of aWUSCHEL‐related homeobox gene,ZmWOX3A, and upregulate its expression in the hair precursor cells. Moreover, several auxin‐related genes are downregulated in theZmspl10/14/26triple mutants.

Our results suggest that ZmSPL10/14/26 play a key role in promoting epidermal hair fate on maize leaves, possibly through regulatingZmWOX3Aand auxin‐related gene expression, and that the fates of epidermal hairs and stomata are switchable.
Seed‐borne, endospheric and rhizospheric core microbiota as predictors of plant functional traits across rice cultivars are dominated by deterministic processes
Authors: Guo Junjie , Ling Ning , Li Yong , Li Kaisong , Ning Huiling , Shen Qirong , Guo Shiwei , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe
Published: February 2021

A host‐plant and its associated microbiota depend on one another. However, the assembly process and the functioning of host‐associated microbiota are poorly understood.

Herein, rice was used as model plant to investigate the assemblage of bacterial microbiota, including those in the seed, root endosphere and rhizosphere. We also assessed the degree to which endosphere and rhizosphere communities were influenced by vertical transmission through seed and identified the core microbes that potentially associated with plant phenotypic properties.

Plant microhabitat, rather than subspecies type, was the major driver shaping plant‐associated bacterial microbiota. Deterministic processes were primarily responsible for community assembly in all microhabitats. The influence of vertical transmission from seed to root‐associated bacterial communities appeared to be quite weak (endosphere) or even absent (rhizosphere). A core microbial community composed of 15 generalist species persisted across different microhabitats and represented key connectors in networks. Host‐plant functional traits were linked to the relative abundance of these generalist core microbes and could be predicted from them using machine learning algorithms.

Overall, bacterial microbiota is assembled by host‐plant interactions in a deterministic‐based manner. This study enhances our understanding of the driving mechanisms and associations of microbiota in various plant microhabitats and provides new perspectives to improve plant performance.
Percutaneous management of lead‐related cardiac perforation with limited use of computed tomography and cardiac surgery
Authors: Elbatran Ahmed I. , Akhtar Zaki , Bajpai Abhay , Leung Lisa W. M. , Li Anthony , Pearse Simon , Zuberi Zia , Kaba Riyaz , Saba Magdi M. , Norman Mark , Grimster Alexander , Gallagher Mark M. , Sohal Manav
Published: February 2021

Background

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED)‐related perforation is uncommon but potentially lethal. Management typically includes the use of computed tomography (CT) scanning and often involves cardiac surgery.

Methods

Patients presenting to a single referral centre with CIED‐related cardiac perforation between 2013 and 2019 were identified. Demographics, diagnostic modalities, the method of lead revision, and 30‐day complications were examined.

Results

A total of 46 cases were identified; median time from implantation to diagnosis was 14 days (interquartile range = 4–50). Most were females (29/46, 63%), 9/46 (20%) had cancer, 18 patients (39%) used oral anticoagulants, and no patients had prior cardiac surgery. Active fixation was involved in 98% of cases; 9% involved an implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead. Thirty‐seven leads perforated the right ventricle (apex: 24) and 9 punctured the right atrium (lateral wall: 5). Abnormal electrical parameters were noted in 95% of interrogated cases. Perforation was visualized in 41% and 6% of cases with chest X‐ray (CXR) and transthoracic echocardiography, respectively. CXR revealed a perforation, gross lead displacement, or left‐sided pleural effusion in 74% of cases. Pericardial effusion occurred in 26 patients (57%) of whom 11 (24%) developed tamponade, successfully drained percutaneously. Pre‐extraction CT scan was performed in 19 patients but was essential in four cases. Transvenous lead revision (TLR) was successfully performed in all cases with original leads repositioned in six patients, without recourse to surgery. Thirty‐day mortality and complications were low (0% and 26%, respectively).

Conclusion

CT scanning provides incremental diagnostic value in a minority of CIED‐related perforations. TLR is a safe and effective strategy.