bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of traction table did not increase complications in total hip arthroplasty through direct anterior approach performed by novice surgeon
Authors: Banno Sammy , Baba Tomonori , Tanabe Hiroki , Homma Yasuhiro , Ochi Hironori , Watari Taiji , Kobayashi Hideo , Kaneko Kazuo
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the surgical outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) through direct anterior approach (DAA) performed by beginners by comparing the outcomes after the introduction of DAA-THA between using a normal operating table and a traction table.

Methods:

The total subjects were 200 patients, there were 120 cases from the introduction of three surgeons using a normal table and 80 cases from two surgeons using a traction table. The surgical procedure was standardized, and a surgeon skilled in DAA entered the operating room and instructed the novice surgeons of DAA in all cases.

Results:

The mean operative time was no significant difference between the two groups ( p = 0.093). The difference in slope of the operative time was no significant difference between the two groups ( p value = 0.089). The mean fluoroscopy time and the mean blood loss were significant difference between the two groups ( p < 0.05). The difference in slope of the fluoroscopy time and blood loss were significant difference between the two groups ( p < 0.05). There were no intraoperative complications and no reoperations for any reason.

Conclusions:

At the facility with a surgeon skilled in DAA, the use of a traction table in DAA did not increase the complication rate compared with the use of a normal operating table when the exclusion criteria for DAA were set and surgery was performed using intraoperative fluoroscopy under supervision by a skilled surgeon.
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors’ Newly Reported Endocrine Side Effect: Pazopanib-Induced Primary Adrenal Insufficiency in a Patient With Metastatic Renal Cell Cancer
Authors: Elshimy Ghada , Gandhi Anand , Guo Rong , Correa Ricardo
Published: June 2020

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been used in the treatment of multiple types of cancer. Pazopanib is one of the TKIs and is considered a first-line treatment for adult patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Many endocrine-related adverse effects have been noted with the use of TKIs including hypothyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, altered bone density, secondary hyperparathyroidism, abnormal glucose metabolism, gynecomastia, and hypogonadism. Subclinical glucocorticoid deficiency and adrenal insufficiency have been reported with the use of TKIs in only a few cases so far; thus, its true prevalence and clinical significance have yet to be fully elucidated. The mechanism is still not fully understood; however, adrenal toxicity with hemorrhage and/or necrosis of the adrenal glands has been observed in studies. In this article, we describe the first reported case of pazopanib inducing primary adrenal insufficiency in a patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma diagnosed after the exclusion of all other causes of primary adrenal insufficiency.
Slow on the Uptake, Progression to Heartbreak
Authors: Binder Ashley K. , Haydek John P. , Parihar Siddhant , Modlin Chelsea E. , Tannu Manasi , Aldredge Amalia , Sueblinvong Viranuj
Published: June 2020

The prevalence of serotonin syndrome increases over the past several years as more serotonergic medications are being used in clinical practice. It is a potentially lethal condition caused by excessive serotonergic activity. Common causes of serotonin syndrome are the use of prescription medications, illicit drugs, or a combination of substances, leading to an increase in the activity of serotonin in the central and peripheral nervous system. The clinical symptoms range from mild to severe. We report a case of a 25-year-old woman with polysubstance abuse, including cocaine, who presented with confusion, rigidity, high-grade fever, and reduced biventricular function on echocardiogram. Based on the combination of substance used history, clinical presentation, and echocardiogram findings, she was diagnosed with serotonin syndrome complicated by takotsubo cardiomyopathy. She improved after being treated in the intensive care unit and was discharged from the hospital. This patient demonstrates the importance of recognizing and promptly initiating management of serotonin syndrome in order to improve morbidity and mortality.
Cinacalcet-Associated Resolution of Primary Hyperparathyroidism in a Patient With Normal Kidney Function
Authors: Nguyen Son , Gosmanova Elvira O. , Gosmanov Aidar R.
Published: June 2020

Cinacalcet use is associated with risk of hypocalcemia; however, this risk has been mostly demonstrated in patients with chronic kidney disease. In this article, we describe a case of a 59-year-old male with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), hypercalciuria, osteopenia, and normal kidney function who was started on cinacalcet for the management of recurrent hypercalcemia following prior unsuccessful parathyroidectomy. Within 6 months following cinacalcet commencement, he developed symptomatic and biochemical hypocalcemia requiring discontinuation of the medication and initiation of calcium supplementation. Over more than 3 years of follow-up, his calcium supplementation was gradually tapered off and then discontinued. He is presently eucalcemic and euparathyroid off calcium supplements while also demonstrating normalization of hypercalciuria and bone mineral density. These data indicate that our patient has experienced resolution of PHPT after brief exposure to cinacalcet. We recommend that low starting cinacalcet doses should be considered for treatment of hypercalcemia in patients with PHPT who underwent unsuccessful parathyroidectomy along with close clinical and biochemical follow-up.
Feasibility and Impact of a Yoga Intervention on Cognition, Physical Function, Physical Activity, and Affective Outcomes among People Living with HIV: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Quigley Adria , Brouillette Marie-Josée , Gahagan Jacqueline , O’Brien Kelly Kathleen , MacKay-Lyons Marilyn
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this pilot randomized controlled trial is to assess the feasibility and impact of a triweekly 12-week yoga intervention among people living with HIV (PLWH). Additional objectives included evaluating cognition, physical function, medication adherence, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and mental health among yoga participants versus controls using blinded assessors. We recruited 22 medically stable PLWH aged ≥35 years. A priori feasibility criteria were ≥70% yoga session attendance and ≥70% of participants satisfied with the intervention using a postparticipation questionnaire. Two participants withdrew from the yoga group. Mean yoga class attendance was 82%, with 100% satisfaction. Intention-to-treat analyses (yoga n = 11, control n = 11) showed no within- or between-group differences in cognitive and physical function. The yoga group improved over time in HRQoL cognition ( P = .047) with trends toward improvements in HRQoL health transition ( P =.063) and depression ( P = .055). This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of feasibility and benefits of yoga for PLWH.
An Updated and Expanded Nationwide Study of Business Communication Courses
Authors: Moshiri Farrokh , Cardon Peter W.
Published: June 2020

This nationwide study of business communication instructors examined course delivery, course outlook, topics and depth of coverage, social media and technology coverage, diversity coverage, critical thinking, and accessibility. The outlook for the course appears positive and promising, and instructors continue to add content to the course. An important finding is that business communication instructors’ level of confidence in technology significantly affects how they cover technology-mediated communication. Therefore, we suggest professional associations and higher education institutions should provide more opportunities for voluntary training in these newer communication technologies. Further research is needed about the strain placed on business communication instructors.
Disparities in Dental Use and Untreated Caries Prevalence by Income
Authors: Griffin S.O. , Thornton-Evans G. , Wei L. , Griffin P.M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Untreated dental caries (UC), although preventable, is the most prevalent disease in the United States. UC diminishes quality of life and lowers productivity for millions of Americans and is notably higher among lower-income compared to higher-income persons.

Objective:

This study examines changes in disparities by income in past-year dental use (DU) and UC in 4 life stages (2−5, 6−19, 20−64, and ≥65 y) between 1999−2004 and 2011−2016. We also examined changes in dental safety net policies during this time.

Methods:

We obtained data on dependent variables, UC and DU, from cross-sectional, nationally representative surveys for 1999−2004 and 2011−2016. We used multivariable regression models with 3 main-effect explanatory variables: income (<200% or ≥200% federal poverty level), life stage, and survey period (1999−2004 or 2011−2016) and sociodemographic variables. We included 2-way interaction terms among main-effect variables to test whether disparities had changed over time in each life stage and a 3-way term to test changes in disparities differed across life stages.

Results:

Model-adjusted disparities in DU decreased for both preschool-age and school-age children, and disparities in UC decreased for school-age children. Changes in DU and UC disparities were not detectable for working-age adults and increased for retirement-age adults. Changes in DU and UC among preschool and school-age children were not significantly different from one another and were significantly different from changes among retirement-age adults. Compared to working-age adults, changes in disparities for DU and UC were significantly different for school-age children, and changes in DU were significantly different for preschool-age children. Between surveys, the dental safety net was expanded for youth but remained largely unchanged for adults.

Conclusions:

Expanding the dental safety net for youth could have contributed to increased access to dental care among children relative to adults and contributed to the decrease in disparities in DU and UC among youth.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Between 1999−2004 and 2011−2016, the dental safety net was expanded for youth but remained largely unchanged for adults. Using national survey data to compare changes in disparities in past-year dental use and untreated dental caries by income between adults and youth sheds light on the potential impact of expanding the dental safety net.
Spatial dynamic modelling for urban scenario planning: A case study of Nanjing, China
Authors: Cai Zipan , Wang Bo , Cong Cong , Cvetkovic Vladimir
Published: June 2020

Although urban scenario planning is widely applied for exploring various directions of urban development, it often has high requirements on the medium of quantitative information analysis and transformation. Thus, this study establishes a method of combining scenario planning with a spatial dynamic planning support system to predict urban growth. Specifically, a scenario-based spatial dynamic modelling method is integrated with the information module of planning policy for better decision support. The integrated modelling method is applied for an actual urban land use planning case of Nanjing, an evolving city in China. The spatial forms of future urban land use are simulated under four different pre-set policy scenarios. The differences in simulated results under multi-criteria restrictions reveal the effectiveness and practical value of the integration approach. The findings of this study provide policymakers with a process-based approach to test and evaluate ‘what-if’ consequences and help stakeholders reach consensus.
Rock the MIC: The Matrix of Implied Causation, a Tool for Experimental Design and Model Checking
Authors: Brick Timothy R. , Bailey Drew H.
Published: June 2020

Path modeling and the extended structural equation modeling framework are in increasingly common use for statistical analysis in modern behavioral science. Path modeling, including structural equation modeling, provides a flexible means of defining complex models in a way that allows them to be easily visualized, specified, and fitted to data. Although causality cannot be determined simply by fitting a path model, researchers often use such models as representations of underlying causal-process models. Indeed, causal implications are a vital characteristic of a model’s explanatory value, but these implications are rarely examined directly. When models are hypothesized to be causal, they can be differentiated from one another by examining their causal implications as defined by a combination of the model assumptions, data, and estimation procedure. However, the implied causal relationships may not be immediately obvious to researchers, especially for intricate or long-chain causal structures (as in longitudinal panel designs). We introduce the matrix of implied causation (MIC) as a tool for easily understanding and reporting a model’s implications for the causal influence of one variable on another. With examples from the literature, we illustrate the use of MICs in model checking and experimental design. We argue that MICs should become a routine element of interpretation when models with complex causal implications are examined, and that they may provide an additional tool for differentiating among models with otherwise similar fit.
Effects of treatment classifications in network meta-analysis
Authors: Xing Aiwen , Lin Lifeng
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Network meta-analysis is a popular tool to simultaneously compare multiple treatments and improve treatment effect estimates. However, no widely accepted guidelines are available to classify the treatment nodes in a network meta-analysis, and the node-making process was often insufficiently reported. We aim at empirically examining the impact of different treatment classifications on network meta-analysis results.

Methods

We collected nine published network meta-analyses with various disease outcomes; each contained some similar treatments that may be lumped. The Bayesian random-effects model was applied to these network meta-analyses before and after lumping the similar treatments. We estimated the odds ratios and their 95% credible intervals in the original and lumped network meta-analyses. We used the adjusted deviance information criterion to assess the model performance in the lumped network meta-analyses, and used the ratios of credible interval lengths and ratios of odds ratios to quantitatively evaluate the estimates’ changes due to lumping. In addition, the unrelated mean effect model was applied to examine the extents of evidence inconsistency.

Results

The estimated odds ratios of many treatment comparisons had noticeable changes due to lumping; many of their precisions were substantially improved. The deviance information criterion values reduced after lumping similar treatments in seven (78%) network meta-analyses, indicating better model performance. Substantial evidence inconsistency was detected in only one network meta-analysis.

Conclusions

Different ways of classifying treatment nodes may substantially affect network meta-analysis results. Including many insufficiently compared treatments and analysing them as separate nodes may not yield more precise estimates. Researchers should report the node-making process in detail and investigate the results’ robustness to different ways of classifying treatments.
Three-phase partitioning and immobilization of Bacillus methylotrophicus Y37 cellulase on organo-bentonite and its kinetic and thermodynamic properties
Authors: Duman Yonca Avci , Kaya A. Uğur , Yağci Çiğdem
Published: June 2020

In this study, for the first time Bacillus methylotrophicus Y37 cellulase was purified and recovered in a single step by three-phase partitioning (TPP). The optimal purification parameters for TPP were 40% ammonium sulfate saturation (m/v) with a 1.0:1.0 (v/v) ratio of crude extract:t-butanol, which gave 5.8-fold purification with 155% recovery of cellulase. Non-covalent immobilization of the partitioned cellulase was performed using bentonite as a support material. The activity observed in the 20th experiment was 100%. The optimal pH values and temperatures determined for the free enzyme and the immobilized enzyme were 5.0 and 6.0 and 45°C and 50°C, respectively. The Arrhenius activation energy (Ea) of the immobilized enzyme was lower than that of the free enzyme, whereas the Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) and maximum velocity (Vm) of the immobilized enzyme increased. The turnover number (kcat) and the catalytic performance (kcat/Km) demonstrated the improved catalytic properties of the immobilized enzyme compared to the free enzyme. Immobilization of cellulase is thermodynamically preferred.
Treatment options in type-2 low asthma
Authors: Hinks Timothy S.C. , Levine Stewart J. , Brusselle Guy G.
Published: June 2020

Monoclonal antibodies targeting IgE or the type-2 cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 and IL-13 are proving highly effective in reducing exacerbations and symptoms in people with severe allergic and eosinophilic asthma, respectively. However, these therapies are not appropriate for 30–50% of patients in severe asthma clinics who present with non-allergic, non-eosinophilic, “type-2 low” asthma. These patients constitute an important and common clinical asthma phenotype, driven by distinct, yet poorly understood pathobiological mechanisms. In this review we describe the heterogeneity and clinical characteristics of type-2 low asthma and summarise current knowledge on the underlying pathobiological mechanisms, which includes neutrophilic airway inflammation often associated with smoking, obesity and occupational exposures and may be driven by persistent bacterial infections and by activation of a recently described IL-6 pathway. We review the evidence base underlying existing treatment options for specific treatable traits that can be identified and addressed. We focus particularly on severe asthma as opposed to difficult-to-treat asthma, on emerging data on the identification of airway bacterial infection, on the increasing evidence base for the use of long-term low-dose macrolides, a critical appraisal of bronchial thermoplasty, and evidence for the use of biologics in type-2 low disease. Finally, we review ongoing research into other pathways including tumour necrosis factor, IL-17, resolvins, apolipoproteins, type I interferons, IL-6 and mast cells. We suggest that type-2 low disease frequently presents opportunities for identification and treatment of tractable clinical problems; it is currently a rapidly evolving field with potential for the development of novel targeted therapeutics.
Changes in treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis according to national income
Authors: Kwak Nakwon , Winters Nicholas , Campbell Jonathon R. , Chan Edward D. , Gegia Medea , Lange Christoph , Lee Myungsun , Milanov Vladimir , Menzies Dick , Yim Jae-Joon
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to analyse temporal changes in treatments for and outcomes of multidrug-resistant (MDR)/rifampin-resistant (RR)-tuberculosis (TB) in the context of national economic status.

We analysed data collected by the Collaborative Group for the Meta-Analysis of Individual Patient Data in MDR-TB Treatment on MDR/RR-TB patients from 37 countries. The data were stratified by three national income levels (low-/lower-middle, upper-middle and high) and grouped by time of treatment initiation (2001–2003, 2004–2006, 2007–2009, 2010–2012 and 2013–2015). Temporal trends over the study period were analysed. The probability of treatment success in different income groups over time was calculated using generalised linear mixed models with random effects.

In total, 9036 patients were included in the analysis. Over the study period, use of group A drugs (levofloxacin/moxifloxacin, bedaquiline and linezolid) recommended by the World Health Organization increased and treatment outcomes improved in all income groups. Between 2001–2003 and 2013–2015, treatment success rates increased from 60% to 78% in low-/lower-middle-income countries, from 40% to 67% in upper-middle-income countries, and from 73% to 81% in high-income countries. In earlier years, the probability of treatment success in upper-middle-income countries was lower than that in low-/lower-middle-income countries, but no difference was observed after 2010. However, high-income countries had persistently higher probability of treatment success compared to upper-middle income countries.

Improved treatment outcomes and greater uptake of group A drugs were observed over time for patients with MDR/RR-TB at all income levels. However, treatment outcomes are still unsatisfactory, especially in upper-middle-income countries.
Correction to: Assessment of HIF-1α expression and release following endothelial injury in-vitro and in-vivo
Authors: Heikal Lamia , Ghezzi Pietro , Mengozzi Manuela , Ferns Gordon
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Identifying the relative importance of predictors of survival in out of hospital cardiac arrest: a machine learning study
Authors: Al-Dury Nooraldeen , Ravn-Fischer Annica , Hollenberg Jacob , Israelsson Johan , Nordberg Per , Strömsöe Anneli , Axelsson Christer , Herlitz Johan , Rawshani Araz
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Studies examining the factors linked to survival after out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) have either aimed to describe the characteristics and outcomes of OHCA in different parts of the world, or focused on certain factors and whether they were associated with survival. Unfortunately, this approach does not measure how strong each factor is in predicting survival after OHCA.

Aim

To investigate the relative importance of 16 well-recognized factors in OHCA at the time point of ambulance arrival, and before any interventions or medications were given, by using a machine learning approach that implies building models directly from the data, and arranging those factors in order of importance in predicting survival.

Methods

Using a data-driven approach with a machine learning algorithm, we studied the relative importance of 16 factors assessed during the pre-hospital phase of OHCA. We examined 45,000 cases of OHCA between 2008 and 2016.

Results

Overall, the top five factors to predict survival in order of importance were: initial rhythm, age, early Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR, time to CPR and CPR before arrival of EMS), time from EMS dispatch until EMS arrival, and place of cardiac arrest. The largest difference in importance was noted between initial rhythm and the remaining predictors. A number of factors, including time of arrest and sex were of little importance.

Conclusion

Using machine learning, we confirm that the most important predictor of survival in OHCA is initial rhythm, followed by age, time to start of CPR, EMS response time and place of OHCA. Several factors traditionally viewed as important, e.g. sex, were of little importance.
Critical threat associated with carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria: prioritizing water matrices in addressing total antibiotic resistance
Authors: Adegoke Anthony A. , Fatunla Opeyemi K. , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017 classified some carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria into a critical criterial group for research and development. This study reviews the need to prioritize the water matrices as hotspot in the development and transfer of antibiotic resistance determinants, where future total resistant superbug may emerge.

Methods

Published articles on Google Scholars, PubMed/Medline Search and other search tools were selected, with special interest in articles published in indexed journals. Search criteria were based on antibiotic resistance, antibiotic resistance determinants and emerging trend in the reported trend of antibiotic resistance among bacteria from water matrices.

Results

Research reports around the globe have identified carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (CRGNB) in water matrices. These CRGNB have also been found to be resistant to other antibiotics in the last line of defence. Molecular typing of some carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in the environment through pulsed-field electrophoresis showed them to be the same as those in the hospital settings. CRGNB from various water matrices have been reported to harbour carbapenem resistance genes with phenotypic expression of carbapenemases’ production. Water habitat provides a conducive environment for the development and spread of carbapenem resistance. Factors like residual antibiotics (RAbs), metals, biocide and water-borne mutagens aid the emergence of the resistance in water matrices. Irrespective of where it was contacted, carbapenem-resistant bacteria have poor prognosis. This is exemplified by resistance to 26 different antibiotics recently in the USA. The human health risk associated with the use of water harbouring these pathogens for irrigating fruits and vegetables may be alarming.

Conclusion

The reports of the rising trend of antibiotic resistance also necessitate prioritizing water matrices when addressing the problems from the reservoir. Surveillance and strict isolation, education and enlightenment, strict compliance with multiple barrier approach of the WHO and more search for more potent antibiotics remain some of the antidotes against the development and spread of resistance through the water matrices as discussed in this article.
Sporotrichosis in renal transplant patients: two case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Amirali Mazhar Hussein , Liebenberg Jacques , Pillay Sheylyn , Nel Johan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Sporotrichosis is a rare fungal infection in transplant patients; among these patients, it occurs mostly in renal transplant patients. Sporothrix schenkii is the primary pathogen responsible. A high index of suspicion is required to make the diagnosis keeping important differential diagnoses in mind. History of trauma through recreational or occupational exposure to the fungus may assist in making the diagnosis. Treatment is difficult, with long-term use of potentially nephrotoxic and cytochrome P450 inhibitor antifungal agents leading to potential calcineurin inhibitors toxicity. We describe two renal transplant patients presenting with distinct sporotrichosis infection: “Case 2” being only the second reported case ever of meningeal sporotrichosis. We subsequently review the general aspects of sporotrichosis, specifically in renal transplant patients as described in the medical literature.

Case presentation

Case 1, a 43-year-old mixed ancestry male patient presented with a non-healing ulcer on the left arm for 1 year, he was diagnosed with cutaneous sporotrichosis and was successfully treated with itraconazole monotherapy. Case 2, a 56-year-old mixed ancestry male patient presented with a slow decline in functions, confusion, inappropriate behavior, rigors and significant loss of weight and appetite over the past 4 months, he was diagnosed with meningeal sporotrichosis and was successfully treated with a combination of deoxycholate amphotericin B and itraconazole.

Conclusion

Physicians taking care of renal transplant patients should have a high index of suspicion for sporotrichosis infection particularly when conventional therapy for common conditions fails. Susceptibility testing is recommended to identify the most effective antifungal agent and its dose. The slow nature of growth of Sporothrix schenkii necessitates patients to be on amphotericin B until the time results are available. Finally, there is a need to be aware of potential drug-drug interactions of the azoles with calcineurin inhibitors and the required dose adjustments to prevent therapy related adverse events.
Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells from large domestic animals
Authors: Bressan Fabiana Fernandes , Bassanezze Vinícius , de Figueiredo Pessôa Laís Vicari , Sacramento Chester Bittencourt , Malta Tathiane Maistro , Kashima Simone , Fantinato Neto Paulo , Strefezzi Ricardo De Francisco , Pieri Naira Caroline Godoy , Krieger José Eduardo , Covas Dimas Tadeu , Meirelles Flávio Vieira
Published: June 2020

Background

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have enormous potential in developmental biology studies and in cellular therapies. Although extensively studied and characterized in human and murine models, iPSCs from animals other than mice lack reproducible results.

Methods

Herein, we describe the generation of robust iPSCs from equine and bovine cells through lentiviral transduction of murine or human transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc and from human and murine cells using similar protocols, even when different supplementations were used. The iPSCs were analyzed regarding morphology, gene and protein expression of pluripotency factors, alkaline phosphatase detection, and spontaneous and induced differentiation.

Results

Although embryonic-derived stem cells are yet not well characterized in domestic animals, generation of iPS cells from these species is possible through similar protocols used for mouse or human cells, enabling the use of pluripotent cells from large animals for basic or applied purposes. Herein, we also infer that bovine iPS (biPSCs) exhibit similarity to mouse iPSCs (miPSCs), whereas equine iPSs (eiPSCs) to human (hiPSCs).

Conclusions

The generation of reproducible protocols in different animal species will provide an informative tool for producing in vitro autologous pluripotent cells from domestic animals. These cells will create new opportunities in animal breeding through transgenic technology and will support a new era of translational medicine with large animal models.
Stem cells: a potential treatment option for kidney diseases
Authors: Liu Dongwei , Cheng Fei , Pan Shaokang , Liu Zhangsuo
Published: June 2020

The prevalence of kidney diseases is emerging as a public health problem. Stem cells (SCs), currently considered as a promising tool for therapeutic application, have aroused considerable interest and expectations. With self-renewal capabilities and great potential for proliferation and differentiation, stem cell therapy opens new avenues for the development of renal function and structural repair in kidney diseases. Mounting evidence suggests that stem cells exert a therapeutic effect mainly by replacing damaged tissues and paracrine pathways. The benefits of various types of SCs in acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease have been demonstrated in preclinical studies, and preliminary results of clinical trials present its safety and tolerability. This review will focus on the stem cell-based therapy approaches for the treatment of kidney diseases, including various cell sources used, possible mechanisms involved, and outcomes that are generated so far, along with prospects and challenges in clinical application.
Birth anthropometry and cord blood leptin in Korean appropriate-for-gestational-age infants born at ≥ 28 weeks’ gestation: a cross sectional study
Authors: Kang Seok Jin , Bae Jin Gon , Kim Shin , Park Jae Hyun
Published: June 2020

Background

We investigated whether leptin during the third trimester was associated with fetal growth compared to IGF-1.

Methods

One hundred five appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) infants born at ≥28 weeks’ gestation were enrolled. Cord blood leptin and insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) were collected simultaneously during delivery. Enrolled infants were stratified into three groups according to GA as follows: 28 to < 34 weeks’ gestation, very preterm (VP); 34 to < 37 weeks’ gestation, late preterm (LP); and 37 to < 41 weeks’ gestation, term. Birth weight (BW), birth length (BL), head circumference (HC), and body mass index (BMI) were measured. Leptin and IGF-1 were logarithmically transformed to normalize their distributions in multivariable regression analysis.

Results

Sixty-eight infants out of 105 infants were preterm (32.5 ± 2.5 weeks), and 37 infants were term (37.8 ± 1.2 weeks). BW, BL, HC, and BMI were higher with increasing gestational age among the three gestational age-specific groups. With regard to hormones, leptin and IGF-1 were higher with increasing gestational age. Log cord serum leptin was independently associated with BW and BL in multivariable linear regression analysis, after adjustment for confounding factors including gestational age, delivery mode, multiple pregnancy, pregnancy induced hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, infant’s BMI, and log cord blood IGF-1 levels.

Conclusions

During the third trimester, cord serum leptin was independently associated with fetal growth.
Correction to: An unusual cause of infant's stridor – congenital laryngocele
Authors: Ambrus Andrea , Sztanó Balázs , Szabó Miklós , Vasas Béla , Sziller István , Rovó László
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Whole genome sequencing for the investigation of canine mammary tumor inheritance - an initial assessment of high-risk breast cancer genes reveal BRCA2 and STK11 variants potentially associated with risk in purebred dogs
Authors: Huskey Anna L. W. , Goebel Katie , Lloveras-Fuentes Carlos , McNeely Isaac , Merner Nancy D.
Published: June 2020

Background

Although, in general, cancer is considered a multifactorial disease, clustering of particular cancers in pedigrees suggests a genetic predisposition and could explain why some dog breeds appear to have an increased risk of certain cancers. To our knowledge, there have been no published reports of whole genome sequencing to investigate inherited canine mammary tumor (CMT) risk, and with little known about CMT genetic susceptibility, we carried out whole genome sequencing on 14 purebred dogs diagnosed with mammary tumors from four breed-specific pedigrees. Following sequencing, each dog’s data was processed through a bioinformatics pipeline. This initial report highlights variants in orthologs of human breast cancer susceptibility genes.

Results

The overall whole genome and exome coverage averages were 26.0X and 25.6X, respectively, with 96.1% of the genome and 96.7% of the exome covered at least 10X. Of the average 7.9 million variants per dog, initial analyses involved surveying variants in orthologs of human breast cancer susceptibility genes,BRCA1,BRCA2,CDH1,PTEN,STK11,andTP53, and identified 19 unique coding variants that were validated through PCR and Sanger sequencing. Statistical analyses identified variants inBRCA2andSTK11that appear to be associated with CMT, and breed-specific analyses revealed the breeds at the highest risk. Several additionalBRCA2variants showed trends toward significance, but have conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity, and correspond to variants of unknown significance in humans, which require further investigation. Variants in other genes were noted but did not appear to be associated with disease.

Conclusions

Whole genome sequencing proves to be an effective method to elucidate risk of CMT. Risk variants in orthologs of human breast cancer susceptibility genes have been identified. Ultimately, these whole genome sequencing efforts have provided a plethora of data that can also be assessed for novel discovery and have the potential to lead to breakthroughs in canine and human research through comparative analyses.
Unpacking the Black Box of Translation: A framework for infusing spatial thinking into curricula
Authors: Gagnier Kristin M. , Fisher Kelly R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Spatial thinking skills are strongly correlated with achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields and emerging research suggests that interventions aimed at building students’ skills will likely yield measurable impacts on learning across K-12 settings. The importance of spatial thinking in science has received increased attention in academic discussions; however, the intentional practice of teaching spatial thinking skills is still largely absent from K-12 education. The translation of science into educational practice is challenging for a variety of reasons, including the difficulty “translating” research findings into practical applications and limited resources to support its development, implementation, and evaluation. Given these obstacles, one may ask “can spatial thinking be brought to the classroom?” In this paper, we argue that in order to effectively move research into the classroom, we must first systematically explorehowspatial thinking can be translated into practice.

Approach

We present a use-inspired, integrative framework that draws upon planned action and translation science theories, as well as research from cognitive, developmental, educational, and implementation sciences, to guide the infusion of spatial thinking into science curricula. In theKnowledge Translation Framework(KTF), translation is conceived as a multistage process, proceeding through seven stages: (1) the identification of relevant disciplinary and contextual knowledge, (2) the synthesis and translation of knowledge into guidelines to support the infusion of knowledge into the curriculum, (3) the development of tools to support curriculum development, implementation, and track the translation process, (4) the iterative development and refinement of the spatially-enhanced curriculum, (5) the creation of an analysis plan to evaluate the impact of the spatial enhancements and other contextual features on learning, (6) the development and implementation of an intervention plan, and (7) the evaluation of the intervention.

Conclusion

The KTF is a use-inspired, integrative framework that unpacks the translation process and offers practical guidance on how a team may synthesize scientific and contextual knowledge, infuse it into a curriculum, and evaluate its impact in ways that will yield scientific understandingandpractical knowledge. We also provide illustrative examples of how this approach was used to spatially enhance an elementary science curriculum.
Optimizing the implementation of a population panel management intervention in safety-net clinics for pediatric hypertension (The OpTIMISe–Pediatric Hypertension Study)
Authors: Smith Justin D. , Mohanty Nivedita , Davis Matthew M. , Knapp Ashley A. , Tedla Yacob G. , Carroll Allison J. , Price Heather E. , Villamar Juan A. , Padilla Roxane , Jordan Neil , Brown C. Hendricks , Langman Craig B.
Published: June 2020

Background

Though clinical practice guidelines are available, the diagnosis of pediatric hypertension (HTN) is often missed. Management may not follow guidelines due to the measurement challenges in children, complexity of interpreting youth blood pressure standards that are dependent on height, age, and sex, familiarity with diagnostic criteria, and variable comfort with management of pediatric HTN among providers. Evidence suggests that wide adoption and adherence to pediatric HTN guidelines would result in lower cardiovascular disease and kidney damage in adulthood. The proposed project will develop an implementation strategy package to increase adherence to clinical practice guidelines for pediatric HTN within safety-net community health centers (CHCs). The centerpiece of which is a provider-facing population panel management (PPM) tool and point-of-care clinical decision support (CDS). Prior research indicates that multiple discrete implementation strategies (e.g., stakeholder involvement, readiness planning, training, ongoing audit and feedback) are needed to institute practice- and provider-level adoption of such tools.

Methods

Using participatory research methods involving stakeholders from a practice-based research network of CHCs, with input from scientific advisors, the project aims to (1) employ user-centered design methods to tailor an existing CDS tool for use at the point of care and optimize cohort management with a PPM tool to support adherence to the latest pediatric HTN guidelines, and (2) use a stakeholder-driven method for selecting implementation strategies that support tool adoption and increase guideline-adherent physician behaviors. Multilevel process evaluation using surveys and key informant interview data will assess the acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, cost, and feasibility of the PPM tool and its multicomponent implementation strategy package. Usability testing will be conducted with the PPM tool to iteratively refine features and ensure proper functionality.

Discussion

The proposed research has the potential to improve identification, diagnosis, and management of HTN in primary care settings for high-risk youth by assisting healthcare providers in implementing the American Academy of Pediatrics’ 2017 guidelines using an EHR-integrated PPM tool with CDS. Should the strategy package for PPM tool adoption be successful for pediatric HTN, findings will be translatable to other settings and PPM of other chronic cardiovascular conditions affecting overall population health.
The Museum of Modern Art and the History of Modernism
Authors: Belting Hans
Published: June 2020

Right from its opening in 1929, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) recreated modern art as a new myth that was rescued from European history and thus became accessible as an independent value for an American audience. Paradoxically, the myth stemmed from the opinion that modern art’s history seemed to have expired in pre-war Europe. Upon MoMA’s completion of a major expansion project in 2004, there was considerable anticipation about how the museum would represent its own history and raise its profile in a new century. As it turned out, the museum opted for a surprisingly retrospective look, since its curators were tempted to exhibit its own collection, so unique up until the sixties, in the new exhibition halls. This launched a dilemma for MoMA, as it became a place for past art with little space for new art. In an in-depth analysis of what constitutes “modern” art in the context of the preeminent questions circulating in the art world during this time—When was modern art? and Where was modern art?—the author presents a focused chronology of the administration of MoMA under the museum’s first director, Alfred Hamilton Barr Jr. (1929–43), and, later, William Rubin, director of the Department of Painting and Sculpture (1968–88), with regard to their influence on the museum’s mission, exhibitions, and international profile. The author concludes with commentary on contemporary changes in art geography and contemplation on the effect on artists of the emergence of a global art market.
Potential effects of elevated temperature on seasonal movements in slipper lobsters, Scyllarides latus (Latreille, 1803), in the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: GOLDSTEIN JASON SETH , SPANIER EHUD
Published: June 2020

Temperature serves a predominant motivator for movement and activity over a wide range of mobile marine ectotherms. Water temperature modulates the movements of many lobster species, which can vary widely over spatial and temporal scales. Providing insight into the thermal preferences (and refuges) that some lobsters seek remains a key tenet to our understanding of the behavioral ecology of these animals. The Mediterranean slipper lobster (Scyllarides latus) shows seasonal movements throughout most of its range and is subject to a changing thermal environment. We examined the seasonal movements of S. latus within a small marine reserve (Rosh Hanikra Marine Reserve, RHR) off the coast of Israel and tested the hypothesis that S. latus engage in increased movements when subjected to temperatures outside their range. We conducted a field survey in the RHR and tagged lobsters (n = 81, carapace length, CLavg= 88.7 ± 4.6) to investigate their activity during their putative summer movement. In the lab, we exposed a separate set of lobsters (n = 10, CLavg= 83.1 ± 6.1) to the same thermal profiles as in the field and assayed their locomotion using activity wheels. Field results revealed that lobsters tagged in shallow waters moved to deeper, cooler waters (~ 30 m) over the course of 2-2.5 months traveling an average distance of 3.4 km (range = 1-5 km). Our lab results showed that S. latus are more active at higher temperatures, but moreover, revealed that warming water temperatures elicited markedly longer movements over a similar timeframe. Combined, these findings suggest that increasing water temperatures in the eastern Mediterranean (Levant) may affect lobster movements and could alter seasonal patterns of distribution as well.
Mercury and cadmium in striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) stranded along the Southern Tyrrhenian and Western Ionian coasts
Authors: ESPOSITO MAURO , CAPOZZO DANIELA , SANSONE DONATO , LUCIFORA GIUSEPPE , LA NUCARA RAFFAELLA , PICAZIO GIUSEPPE , RIVERSO CATERINA , GALLO PASQUALE
Published: June 2020

Pollution from heavy metals is becoming a serious and widespread problem due to their persistent and bioaccumulative nature, moreover in the Mediterranean Sea, threatening food safety and the health of humans and marine animals. Cadmium and mercury in particular, are considered two of the most toxic metals to living organisms. Their presence is associated with the contribution of human activity, implying an increased level in the different environmental compartments and the inevitable bioaccumulation in the food chain.In this study, levels of cadmium and mercury were determined in liver, kidney, and muscle tissue of dolphinid specimens of Stenella coeruleoalba stranded in different locations along the coastal areas of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Sea in Southern Italy, during the period 2015–2018 by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Data were compared with those reported for other locations along the Mediterranean sea. The correlations between biometric data (body length, weight and gender) and cadmium and mercury concentrations in samples of cetaceans were statistically analysed in order to investigate the risk these contaminants may pose to the delphinids health.Examination of the pattern of contaminants revealed a significantly high distribution for mercury in all the matrices analyzed (liver, kidney and muscle tissue). On the contrary, elevated concentrations of cadmium were found only in liver (range: 0.005 - 8.95 mg/kg w.w.) and kidney (range: 0.005 - 34.1 mg/kg w.w.) due to accumulator role of these organs in long-term exposures.
Scientific collaboration for early detection of invaders results in a significant update on estimated range: lessons from Stenothoe georgiana Bynum & Fox 1977
Authors: MARTÍNEZ-LAIZ GEMMA , ROS MACARENA , GUERRA-GARCÍA JOSÉ MANUEL , MARCHINI AGNESE , FERNÁNDEZ-GONZÁLEZ VICTORIA , VAZQUEZ-LUIS MAITE , LIONELLO MONICA , SCRIBANO GIOVANNI , SCONFIETTI RENATO , FERRARIO JASMINE , ULMAN AYLIN , COSTA ANA CRISTINA , MICAEL JOANA , POORE ALISTAIR , CABEZAS PILAR , NAVARRO-BARRANCO CARLOS
Published: June 2020

Detection of new non-indigenous species is often delayed when taxonomically challenging taxa are involved, such as small-sized marine organisms. The present study highlights the relevance of scientific cooperation in the early detection of the invader amphipod Stenothoe georgiana. Originally described from North Carolina (USA), the species was recently found in Chile and the Western Mediterranean. Here, we provide the first record of the species in Macaronesia, Atlantic coasts of continental Europe, North Africa and Australia, and extend its known distribution along the Mediterranean coast. Just like other small crustaceans, shipping (including recreational boating) and aquaculture are probably the main vectors of introduction and secondary spread for this amphipod species. This case of S. georgiana sheds light on the importance of promoting taxonomical knowledge, and building multidisciplinary expertise networks that ensure an effective spread of alien species information. We also encourage the implementation of standardized monitoring methodologies to facilitate early detection of small mobile invaders.