bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating fatigue behavior of a family of aluminum overhead conductors using ANNs
Authors: Cãmara Eduardo César Bezerra , Kalombo Remy B. , Ferreira Jorge L.A. , Araújo José Alexander , Freire Júnior Raimundo Carlos Silverio
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to create an artificial neural network (ANN) architecture capable of estimating the fatigue behavior of aluminum overhead conductors, considering specific weight (W) and bending stiffness (EI) as parameters of influence. ANN training and testing is conducted by using a dataset obtained from fatigue tests carried out in a 50 m resonant bench at the University of Brasilia (UnB). ANNs are used to construct constant life diagrams for this family of conductors, and to compare the results obtained experimentally. Our findings show that for the architectures analyzed, it is possible to accurately estimate the fatigue behavior of this family of aluminum conductors.
The final cut™: Directors, producers and the gender regime of the Swedish film industry
Authors: Jansson Maria , Papadopoulou Frantzeska , Stigsdotter Ingrid , Wallenberg Louise
Published: January 2021

Focusing on Sweden, this article departs from the proposition that film production and the film industry are governed by institutional arrangements that produce and reproduce gender and gender relations. The article is based on interviews with directors and producers and analyses how Swedish directors and producers describe their roles and relationship, relating this to how these roles are shaped by the law, film policy, and financial arrangements. The article argues that the Swedish film industry rests on a gendered division of labor, that the professions of director and producer are constructed in relation to masculinity, and that the gender equality measures undertaken are not sufficient to come to grips with the gender inequalities in the industry.
The effects of manual therapy on musculoskeletal system, functional level, joint health and kinesiophobia in young adults with severe haemophilia: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Tat Necati Muhammed , Can Filiz , Sasmaz Hatice Ilgen , Tat Ayse Merve , Antmen Ali Bulent
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The effects of manual therapy (MT) on joint health and functional level in haemophilic arthropathy (HA) have relatively under‐explored.

Aim

To investigate the effects of MT in HA of lower limb joints on musculoskeletal system, functional level, Functional Independence Score in Hemophilia (FISH), Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and kinesiophobia.

Methods

Seventeen patients were randomized to the control group (CG = 9) and manual therapy group (MTG = 8). The number of haemarthrosis (NoH) was recorded from the diaries. Range of motion (ROM), strength and pain intensity were measured using goniometer, digital dynamometer and visual analogue scale, respectively. Joint health was evaluated with HJHS, functional independence with FISH, and kinesiophobia with Tampa Scale. Functional Reach (FR), Timed Up‐Go (TUG) and 5‐Times Sit‐to‐Stand (5*STS) tests were used to evaluate functional level. Home exercises were given to both groups. Additionally, myofascial release techniques and mobilizations were applied to MTG. Interventions were applied 3 d/weekly for 5 weeks. Assessments were performed at baseline and after treatment.

Results

ROM, strength, activity pain, HJHS and FISH were improved in MTG (p˂0.05). Ankle NoH, 5*STS and FR were developed in both groups (p˂0.05), but kinesiophobia, TUG and knee NoH were not significant. Although improvements were observed in favour of MTG in HJHS, FR, activity pain and ankle strength/ROM (p˂0.05), no significant difference was found in FISH, kinesiophobia, TUG, 5*STS, resting pain and knee strength.

Conclusion

Reduction in ankle NoH indicated that both interventions were safe. The use of MT in HA of lower limb joints was an effective physiotherapy approach to improve functional level, joint health and functional independence.
Headache characteristics and burden from chronic migraine with medication overuse headache: Cross‐sectional observations from the Medication Overuse Treatment Strategy trial
Authors: Schwedt Todd J. , Hentz Joseph G. , Sahai‐Srivastava Soma , Spare Nicole M. , Martin Vincent T. , Treppendahl Christina , Digre Kathleen , Bennett Nathan L. , Birlea Marius , Watson David , Murinova Natalia , Robert Teri , Dodick David W. ,   the MOTS Investigators
Published: January 2021

Objective

To describe headache characteristics, medication use, disability, and quality of life in a large patient cohort from the United States who have chronic migraine (CM) and medication overuse headache (MOH).

Methods

In all, 610 adult patients were enrolled into the Medication Overuse Treatment Strategy trial from 34 healthcare clinics, including headache specialty, general neurology, and primary care clinics. Descriptive statistics characterize baseline demographics, headache characteristics, medication use, disability (Headache Impact Test 6 [HIT‐6] and Migraine Functional Impact Questionnaire [MFIQ]), pain interference (PROMIS Pain Interference), and quality of life (EQ‐5D‐5L). Relationships with headache frequency were assessed.

Results

Mean age was 45 years (SD 13) and 531/608 (87.3%) were females. Mean headache days per 30 was 24.3 (SD 5.5), including 13.6 (SD 7.1) with moderate to severe headache. Daily headaches were reported by 36.1% (219/607) of patients. Acute headache medications were used on 21.5 (SD 7.5) per 30 days. The most commonly overused medications were simple analgesics (378/607, 62% of patients), combination analgesics (246/607, 41%), and triptans (128/607, 21%). HIT‐6, MFIQ, PROMIS Pain Interference, and EQ‐5D‐5L scores demonstrated substantial negative impact from CM with MOH on patient functioning and quality of life. Higher headache frequency was associated with more moderate–severe headache days, more frequent acute headache medication use, greater headache‐related disability, and lower quality of life. Only 272/606 (44.9%) were taking migraine preventive medication.

Conclusions

CM with MOH is associated with a large burden on patients in the United States. Higher headache frequency is associated with greater impact on functioning, pain interference, and quality of life.
Primary sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma of the spine: a single‐institution experience
Authors: Righi Alberto , Pacheco Marina , Pipola Valerio , Gambarotti Marco , Benini Stefania , Sbaraglia Marta , Frisoni Tommaso , Boriani Stefano , Dei Tos Angelo P , Gasbarrini Alessandro
Published: January 2021

Aims

To present our experience on spinal sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF) and review the existing literature pertaining to SEF of the spine.

Methods and results

Six cases of spinal SEF were reviewed, and a literature search of all primary SEFs of the spine was performed. All tumours occurred in adults (median age, 41 years) and were located all along the spine, the lumbar vertebrae being the most commonly involved. All patients presented with pain that they had experienced for months. The mean tumour size at diagnosis was 52 mm. Five tumours showed a spectrum of microscopic features consistent with pure SEF, and one showed a hybrid morphology with areas of low‐grade fibromyxoid sarcoma. All were diffusely and strongly positive for mucin 4. Two cases were initially misdiagnosed as epithelioid haemangioendothelioma and aggressive chondroblastoma. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation showed rearrangements of either FUS or EWSR1 in four cases. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed the presence of FUS–CREB3L1 and EWSR1–CREB3L1 fusion transcripts in two cases and one case, respectively. Of five patients with follow‐up data available, two developed one or more local recurrences and three patients had metastatic disease. Distant metastases were mainly to other osseous locations, followed by lungs and lymph nodes. At last follow‐up, three patients had died of disease and one was alive with multiple metastases.

Conclusions

SEF is an aggressive sarcoma that can involve the spine. It is important to recognise the spine as the primary location of SEF, in order to avoid misdiagnosis as more common primary spinal neoplasms, which can impact on therapeutic approaches.
Histopathology at autopsy: why bother?
Authors: Matkowski Amber F I , Benbow Emyr W
Published: January 2021

Aims

The frequency of histopathological sampling at autopsy varies, even though inadequate sampling may limit the value of autopsy reports. This study aims to investigate the contribution of histopathology at autopsy in a major teaching hospital.

Methods and results

A total of 532 coronial autopsy reports from Manchester Royal Infirmary were analysed retrospectively. Gross and microscopic diagnoses were compared and classified as concordant, discordant, histology needed (i.e. indeterminate or unremarkable gross findings) or autolysed. Revisions made to the cause of death following histopathology were categorised as: altered direct cause of death, altered indirect cause of death, concordant with supportive information, irrelevant or inconclusive. The study was limited to brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung and spleen. Histopathology had been requested in 141 cases (27%), which were further analysed. The greatest discordance between gross and microscopic findings was observed in the lung (11.6%). The organs most frequently requiring histopathology to provide a diagnosis were the kidney and lung, at 52.8 and 28.2%, respectively. Alterations were made to the direct cause of death in 45% of cases where histopathology was taken; it provided additional or supportive information in a further 38%. Diagnoses of primary malignancy had a sensitivity of 74% [confidence interval (CI) = 0.59–0.86] and bronchopneumonia had a sensitivity of 45% (CI = 0.29–0.62).

Conclusion

Histopathology has a major impact on the interpretation of organ pathology and determining a cause of death at autopsy.
Methods to quantify avian airspace use in relation to wind energy development
Authors: Largey Nicola , Cook Aonghais S. C. P. , Thaxter Chris B. , McCluskie Aly , Stokke BÅrd G. , Wilson Ben , Masden Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2021

It is likely that there will continue to be a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines as we aim to meet global energy demands through renewable sources. However, these structures can have adverse impacts on airborne wildlife, such as posing a potential collision risk with the turbine structure. A range of methods and technologies have been applied to the collection of bird flight parameters, such as height and speed, to improve the estimation of potential collision compared with traditional visual methods, but these are currently not applied in a consistent and systematic way. To this end, a systematic literature search was conducted to (1) examine the methods and technologies that can be used to provide bird flight data to assess the impact of wind energy developments and (2) provide an updated framework to guide how they might be most usefully applied within the impact assessment process. Four empirical measurement methods were found that improve the estimation of bird flight parameters: radar, telemetry, ornithodolite and LiDAR. These empirical sensor‐based tools were typically more often applied in academic peer‐reviewed papers than in report‐based environmental statements. Where sensor‐based tools have been used in the report‐based literature, their inconsistent application has resulted in an uncertain regulatory environment for practitioners. Our framework directly incorporates sensor‐based methods, together with their limitations and data requirements, from pre‐deployment of infrastructure to post‐consent monitoring of impacts. This revised approach will help improve the accuracy of estimation of bird flight parameters for ornithological assessment of wind energy. Sensor‐based tools may not be the most cost‐effective. However, a precedent has been set for wind energy development consent refusal based on ornithological impact assessment, and therefore the cost of collecting accurate and reliable flight data may be balanced favourably against the cost of development consent refusal.
Vitellogenin expression in the ovaries of adult honeybee workers provides insights into the evolution of reproductive and social traits
Authors: Cardoso‐Júnior C. A. M. , Oldroyd B. P. , Ronai I.
Published: January 2021

Social insects are notable for having two female castes that exhibit extreme differences in their reproductive capacity. The molecular basis of these differences is largely unknown. Vitellogenin (Vg) is a powerful antioxidant and insulin‐signalling regulator used in oocyte development. Here we investigate how Royal Jelly (the major food of honeybee queens) and queen mandibular pheromone (a major regulator of worker fertility), affect the longevity and reproductive status of honey bee workers, the expression of Vg, its receptor VgR and associated regulatory proteins. We find that Vg is expressed in the ovaries of workers and that workers fed a queen diet of Royal Jelly have increased Vg expression in the ovaries. Surprisingly, we find that expression of Vg is not associated with ovary activation in workers, suggesting that this gene has potentially acquired non‐reproductive functions. Therefore, Vg expression in the ovaries of honeybee workers provides further support for the Ovarian Ground Plan Hypothesis, which argues that genes implicated in the regulation of reproduction have been co‐opted to regulate behavioural differences between queens and workers.
PAQR11 modulates monocyte‐to‐macrophage differentiation and pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lin Yijun , Huang Meiqin , Wang Shuo , You Xue , Zhang Lingling , Chen Yan
Published: January 2021

During inflammation or tissue injury, pro‐inflammatory mediators attract migratory monocytes to inflammatory sites and monocyte‐to‐macrophage differentiation occurs to activate macrophages. We report here that PAQR11, a member of the progesterone and AdipoQ receptor family, regulates monocyte‐to‐macrophage differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Paqr11 gene was highly induced during monocyte‐to‐macrophage differentiation. Knockdown or deletion of Paqr11 inhibited monocyte differentiation but had little effect on macrophage polarization. Mechanistically, PAQR11 promoted cell survival as apoptosis was increased by Paqr11 knockdown or deletion. Activation of the MAPK signalling pathway was involved in the regulatory role of PAQR11 on monocyte differentiation and cell survival. C/EBPβ regulated the expression of Paqr11 at the transcriptional level. In mice, deletion of Paqr11 gene alleviated progression of collagen‐induced rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, these results provide strong evidence that PAQR11 has a function in monocyte‐to‐macrophage differentiation and such function is related to autoimmune disease in vivo.
Infants’ learning of non‐adjacent regularities from visual sequences
Authors: Bettoni Roberta , Bulf Hermann , Brady Shannon , Johnson Scott P.
Published: January 2021

Tracking adjacent (AD) and non‐adjacent (NAD) dependencies in a sequence of elements is critical for the development of many complex abilities, such as language acquisition and social interaction. While learning of AD in infancy is a domain‐general ability that is functioning across different domains, infants’ processing of NAD has been reported only for speech sequences. Here, we tested 9‐ to 12‐ and 13‐ to 15‐month‐olds’ ability to extract AxB grammars in visual sequences of unfamiliar elements. Infants were habituated to a series of 3‐visual arrays following an AxB grammar in which the first element (A) predicted the third element (B), while intervening X elements changed continuously. Following habituation, infants were tested with 3‐item arrays in which initial and final positions were switched (novel) or kept consistent with the habituation phase (familiar). Older infants successfully recognized the familiar AxB grammar at test, whereas the younger group showed some sensitivity to extract to NAD, albeit in a less robust form. This finding provides the first evidence that the ability to track NAD is a domain‐general ability that is present also in the visual domain and that the sensitivity to such dependencies is related to developmental changes, as demonstrated in the auditory domain.
Influence of transition readiness from paediatric to adult health care on quality of life in child–parent dyads with long‐term conditions
Authors: Ma Jiali , Gong Geyan , Zhang Taomei , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2021

Aim

To delineate the impact of perspective of children's transition readiness from paediatric to adult health care on quality of life in child–parent dyads with long‐term conditions. We used Actor–Partner Interdependence Model to identify actor effects (effect of one's own transition readiness on one's own quality of life) and partner effects (effect of one's own transition readiness on the partner's quality of life).

Design

A multi‐centre cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The study was conducted in two paediatric hospitals in China from October 2018‐August 2019. We used a researcher‐designed questionnaire to collect demographic and clinical characteristics. Furthermore, we used four questionnaires assessing transition readiness and quality of life in child and parent respectively to collect data from 370 child–parent dyads. Structural equation modelling was applied to estimate the effect of actor–partner interdependence models.

Results

The total score of transition readiness had two actor effects on total child and parent quality of life controlling for age (βchildren = 3.335,p = .032 andβparents = 8.952,p < .001), while only one actor effect controlling for gender (βparents = 8.891,p < .001). Specific transition readiness dimensions had different partner effects on different domains of children and parents' quality of life. Moreover, younger children and fathers had a better quality of life.

Conclusion

Our study verified inherently interpersonal relationship that transition readiness appeared to influence quality of life in child–parent dyads with long‐term conditions.

Impact

This study was the first to verify mutual influence of transition readiness and quality of life in child–parent dyad using actor–partner interdependence model. Nurses who design the transition promoting programs should consider the effective communication between healthcare provider and child–parent dyads and support parents' involvement to improve shared understanding about managing child's condition, especially for older children and mothers.
Out of Sight, out of Mind? Modeling the Impacts of Financial Squeeze on Extended Supply Chain Networks
Authors: Li Mei , Alam Zahangir , Bernardes Ednilson , Giannoccaro Ilaria , Skilton Paul F. , Rahman M. Sohel
Published: January 2021

Firms increasingly put financial pressure on their suppliers, also called squeezing. Suppliers react and adapt to financial squeeze as autonomous agents, causing complex ripple effects across the extended supply chain network. To capture intertwined and highly interactive effects among suppliers, we use agent‐based models. We explore the impact of financial squeeze on supply chain network structure and operational outcomes. Results suggest that financial squeeze affects the stability of the supply chain network and the effect varies depending on the location of the suppliers. Firms located at the bottom of the supply chain network suffer most from financial squeeze, and the magnitude of the effect increases as one goes further upstream. In addition, as existing suppliers exit the network and new suppliers enter, three network archetypes (Empty Nest, TransitUp, and StableDown) emerge. We identify the condition and operational consequences associated with these three archetypes. Our findings are informative to managers at buyer firms about the impacts of squeezing strategy on their extended supply chain partners, who often times are out of their immediate purview.
Temperature effect on oxidative stress and egg quality‐related genes on post‐ovulatory eggs and ovary of red cusk‐eel (Genypterus chilensis)
Authors: Dettleff Phillip , Zuloaga Rodrigo , Fuentes Marcia , Estrada Juan M. , Molina Alfredo , Valdés Juan A.
Published: January 2021

Red cusk‐eel (Genypterus chilensis) is a native species with potential for Chilean aquaculture diversification. However, no information exists on the effects of temperature on oxidative stress and eggs quality markers in post‐ovulatory eggs and ovary of this species. We determine that high and low temperature generate oxidative damage on post‐ovulatory eggs, with no effect on ovary. Temperature induces thermal stress markers expression on post‐ovulatory eggs, and modulates antioxidant and eggs quality markers on post‐ovulatory eggs and ovary, information to consider for quality evaluation in the red cusk‐eel management.
How do people perceive flood risk? Findings from a public survey in Tuscany, Italy
Authors: Zabini Federica , Grasso Valentina , Crisci Alfonso , Gozzini Bernardo
Published: January 2021

The study of risk perception (RP) has much increased in the last years to improve flood risk management. Effective communication requires an understanding of how the risk of flooding is perceived by residents of different areas. In this work, RP is investigated through a survey involving 483 people living in Tuscany. RP was assessed through a score built on four items covering personal, residence, and sociodemographic variables concerning flood RP. Results showed that: (a) flood RP was moderate; (b) RP was positively correlated with age, higher education, proximity to a river and direct experience; (c) people who experienced floods felt themselves to be more informed and prepared; (d) subjectively perceived risk and experts' risk assessment seemed generally correlated, even if people living in areas at “high risk” tend to underestimate the actual flood risk level; (e) the majority of the respondents considered the government and themselves as equally responsible for personal preparedness; and (f) less than 20% was aware of a Local Emergency Plan. The need of focusing on people living in the riskiest areas with targeted communication campaigns on risk awareness, hazard preparedness, and other implications of the findings in terms of communication strategies are discussed.
Occurrence and characterization of ciprofloxacin‐resistantEscherichia colifrom bovine and ovine bulk tank milk samples in Turkey
Authors: Kürekci Cemil , Aydın Muhsin , Tekeli İbrahim Ozan , Ambarcıoğlu Pınar , Şengül Seydi Ahmet , Sakin Fatih
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study was to examine the occurrence and characteristics of ciprofloxacin‐resistant (CipR)Escherichia coliisolates on bulk tank milk (BTM) samples (bovine and ovine origins) in Turkey. A total of 91 BTM samples (41.7%, 95% confidence intervals 35.2–48.6%) out of 218 were found to be positive for CipRE. coliisolates (MIC values of ≥4 μg/ml). Analysis of PFGE fingerprint profile forE. coliisolates resulted in the 55 different pulsotypes based on >85% homology. All isolates were resistant to enrofloxacin and nalidixic acid and the resistance rates in bovine and ovine origin isolates were 94.9 and 78.1% for norfloxacin (p < .05) and 27.1 and 34.4% for levofloxacin, respectively. Additionally, resistance to non‐quinolone antibiotics was commonly observed against tetracycline (resistance rates in bovine and ovine = 91.5 and 87.5%, respectively), trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (83.1 and 93.8%, respectively), gentamycin (15.3 and 40.6%, respectively,p < .05) and chloramphenicol (23.7 and 65.6%, respectively,p < .05). TheqnrS1gene (3.1 and 6.8%, respectively) was the most prevalent PMQR genes in isolates from ovine and bovine origins, followed byaac (6′)‐Ib‐cr(0 and 5.1%, respectively) andqnrB19(0 and 1.7%, respectively). The other resistance genes includingtetA,tetB,strA/B,aPozhA1,aadA,aadB,blaCTX‐M, andblaTEMwere also identified in various frequencies. The most frequently observed virulence trait wasfimH. The low‐level presence of PMQR genes and as well as some virulence traits is an important finding, yet the results of this study are worrisome because quinolone antibiotics are still the drugs of choice for severe infections in humans.
Hemosuccus Pancreaticus: A systematic approach
Authors: Yashavanth H S , Jagtap Nitin , Singh Jagadeesh Rampal , Ramchandani Mohan , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Tandan Manu , Gupta Rajesh , Vamsi Mohan , Bhaware Bhushan , Rao G V , Reddy D N
Published: January 2021

Background and Aim

Hemosuccus pancreaticus is considered as one of the rare cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Intermittent nature of bleeding and lack of standardized approach for diagnosis has resulted in significant delay in definitive management.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed prospectively maintained data of patients with suspected hemosuccus pancreaticus between January 2010 and December 2019.

Results

Out of 114 patients, 87 patients were diagnosed with hemosuccus pancreaticus. Mean age was 35.7 ± 11.7 years with 89.7% men. Median duration of bleeding before diagnosis was 10 days, with 40.2%, 10.3%, and 5.7% patients had symptoms beyond 1, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Visceral artery aneurysm was noted in 62% of cases with splenic artery aneurysm (37.9%) being the common source of bleed. Rarer causes noted were superior mesenteric artery aneurysm, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, and post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (2.3% each). Santorinirrhage was seen in 3.4% patients. Endoscopic diagnosis was possible in 64.4% of patients, and angiogram localization of bleeding source was noted in 94.2%. A 56.3% of patients underwent conventional angioembolization with 95.9% success and 28.7% underwent surgery, with overall rebleeding rate of 11.5%.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis of hemosuccus pancreaticus avoids prolonged suffering, multiple hospital admissions, and multiple blood transfusions. It is not uncommon in the absence of aneurysm. In cases of high suspicion, repeating the endoscopy with proper technique and proper timing increases the yield. Angioembolization remains the most preferred first line therapeutic approach in majority of cases.
Ultrasonography‐guided oocyte recovery in owl monkeys (aotus azarai infulatus)
Authors: Rech Fernanda , Souto Marcella Pinheiro , Oliveira Jimmy Wiggley Moura , da Silva Sandy Kelly Souza Marques , Viau Furtado Priscila , Imbeloni Aline Amaral , Teixeira Pedro Paulo Maia , de Lima Julianne Silva , Vicente Wilter Ricardo Russiano , Coutinho Leandro Nassar
Published: January 2021

The study evaluated an echo‐guided oocyte recovery technique in owl monkeys. Twelve females were selected for the transabdominal ovum retrieval technique. This procedure collected twenty‐six follicles, of which nine oocytes were recovered, without harm to the animals. The technique is feasible and is a minimally invasive protocol for neotropical primates.
Crystal structure of glutamate dehydrogenase 2, a positively selected novel human enzyme involved in brain biology and cancer pathophysiology
Authors: Dimovasili Christina , Fadouloglou Vasiliki E. , Kefala Aikaterini , Providaki Mary , Kotsifaki Dina , Kanavouras Konstantinos , Sarrou Iosifina , Plaitakis Andreas , Zaganas Ioannis , Kokkinidis Michael
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Mammalian glutamate dehydrogenase (hGDH1 in human cells) interconverts glutamate to α‐ketoglutarate and ammonia while reducing NAD(P) to NAD(P)H. During primate evolution, humans and great apes have acquired hGDH2, an isoenzyme that underwent rapid evolutionary adaptation concomitantly with brain expansion, thereby acquiring unique catalytic and regulatory properties that permitted its function under conditions inhibitory to its ancestor hGDH1. Although the 3D‐structures of GDHs, including hGDH1, have been determined, attempts to determine the hGDH2 structure were until recently unsuccessful. Comparison of the hGDH1/hGDH2 structures would enable a detailed understanding of their evolutionary differences. This work aimed at the determination of the hGDH2 crystal structure and the analysis of its functional implications. Recombinant hGDH2 was produced in the Spodoptera frugiperda ovarian cell line Sf21, using the Baculovirus expression system. Purification was achieved via a two‐step chromatography procedure. hGDH2 was crystallized, X‐ray diffraction data were collected using synchrotron radiation and the structure was determined by molecular replacement. The hGDH2 structure is reported at a resolution of 2.9 Å. The enzyme adopts a novel semi‐closed conformation, which is an intermediate between known open and closed GDH1 conformations, differing from both. The structure enabled us to dissect previously reported biochemical findings and to structurally interpret the effects of evolutionary amino acid substitutions, including Arg470His, on ADP affinity. In conclusion, our data provide insights into the structural basis of hGDH2 properties, the functional evolution of hGDH isoenzymes, and open new prospects for drug design, especially for cancer therapeutics.

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MicroRNA‐3473b regulates the expression of TREM2/ULK1 and inhibits autophagy in inflammatory pathogenesis of Parkinson disease
Authors: Lv Qiankun , Zhong Zhen , Hu Binbin , Yan Si , Yan Yufang , Zhang Junjun , Shi Ting , Jiang Lijuan , Li Wen , Huang Wei
Published: January 2021

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by selective loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the midbrain. The regulatory role of a variety of microRNAs in PD has been confirmed, and our study is the first to demonstrate that miR‐3473b is involved in the regulation of PD. In vitro, an miR‐3473b inhibitor can inhibit the secretion of inflammatory factors (TNF‐α and IL‐1β) in moues microglia cell line (BV2) cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and promote autophagy in BV2 cells. In vivo, miR‐3473b antagomir can inhibit the activation of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) microglia of C57BL/6 mice induced by 1‐Methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and promote autophagy. Deletion of TREM2, one of the most highly expressed receptors in microglia, leads to the occurrence and development of PD. ULK1 is a component of the Atg1 complex. Deletion of ULK1 aggravates the pathological reaction of PD. TREM2 and ULK1 are predicted potential targets of miR‐3473b by Targetscan. Then, the results of our experiments indicate that transfection with a miR‐3473b mimic can inhibit the expression of TREM2 and ULK1. Data from a double luciferase experiment indicate that the 3'‐UTR of TREM2, but not ULK1, is the direct target of miR‐3473b. Then we aim to investigate the regulation of TREM2 and ULK1 in PD. We found that the expression of p‐ULK1 was significantly increased via up‐regulation of TREM2. The increased expression of p‐ULK1 can promote autophagy and inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors. The regulation of ULK1 by miR‐3473b may be accomplished indirectly through TREM2. Thus, miR‐3473b may regulate the secretion of proinflammatory mediators by targeting TREM2/ULK1 expression to regulate the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of inflammation in Parkinson's disease, suggesting that mir‐3473b may be a potential therapeutic target to regulate the inflammatory response in PD.

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In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the brain of Cdkl5 null mice reveals a metabolic profile indicative of mitochondrial dysfunctions
Authors: Carli Sara , Chaabane Linda , Butti Clarissa , De Palma Clara , Aimar Patrizia , Salio Chiara , Vignoli Aglaia , Giustetto Maurizio , Landsberger Nicoletta , Frasca Angelisa
Published: January 2021

Mutations in the X‐linked CDKL5 gene cause CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a severe neurodevelopmental condition mainly characterized by infantile epileptic encephalopathy, intellectual disability, and autistic features. The molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical symptoms remain largely unknown and the identification of reliable biomarkers in animal models will certainly contribute to increase our comprehension of CDD as well as to assess the efficacy of therapeutic strategies. Here, we used different Magnetic Resonance (MR) methods to disclose structural, functional, or metabolic signatures of Cdkl5 deficiency in the brain of adult mice. We found that loss of Cdkl5 does not cause cerebral atrophy but affects distinct brain areas, particularly the hippocampus. By in vivo proton‐MR spectroscopy (MRS), we revealed in the Cdkl5 null brain a metabolic dysregulation indicative of mitochondrial dysfunctions. Accordingly, we unveiled a significant reduction in ATP levels and a decrease in the expression of complex IV of mitochondrial electron transport chain. Conversely, the number of mitochondria appeared preserved. Importantly, we reported a significant defect in the activation of one of the major regulators of cellular energy balance, the adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), that might contribute to the observed metabolic impairment and become an interesting therapeutic target for future preclinical trials. In conclusion, MRS revealed in the Cdkl5 null brain the presence of a metabolic dysregulation suggestive of a mitochondrial dysfunction that permitted to foster our comprehension of Cdkl5 deficiency and brought our interest towards targeting mitochondria as therapeutic strategy for CDD.

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Scar tissue I wish you saw: Patient expectations regarding scar treatment
Authors: Gomolin Tamar , Cline Abigail , Ginsberg David , Safai Bijan
Published: January 2021

Although many invasive and noninvasive approaches exist, management of keloids and hypertrophic scars remains challenging. By better understanding patient expectations regarding scar treatments, dermatologists can provide higher quality and more satisfying care. Survey patients age 18 to 80 years with a history of hypertrophic, keloid, or disfiguring scars. Overall, 187 participants completed the 25‐question survey. Expectations and willingness were measured on a 1‐5 Likert scale. Results were analyzed overall and by patient demographics. Older respondents more often expected scar reduction, while younger patients expected scar removal. Compared with Caucasians, Asian respondents were more symptomatic, more likely to have seen a physician, and more willing to undergo invasive therapies. Respondent willingness for treatment and their perceived efficacy significantly differed across gender, age, and race. This study explores a gap in the literature of what role patient expectations play in electing specific treatments. Although patient expectations are complex and context dependent, gaining more understanding of what therapies patients are willing to attempt, and their expectations from those therapies could help guide counseling with the goal setting realistic expectations to improve patient compliance and satisfaction.
An appealing meal: Creating conditions for older persons’ mealtimes – a focus group study with healthcare professionals
Authors: Blomberg Karin , Wallin Anne‐Marie , Odencrants Sigrid
Published: January 2021

Background

Healthcare professionals’ knowledge and attitudes may have an impact on older persons’ nutritional status. Therefore, it is important to explore different healthcare professionals’ perspectives on older persons’ meals.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe healthcare professionals’ understanding of and views on the mealtime experience of older persons in municipal care.

Methods

Seven focus group discussions with various healthcare professionals (nurse assistants, registered nurses and occupational therapists) (n = 52) working in nursing homes and/or home care for older persons were conducted and analysed using interpretive description. The COREQ checklist was used for reporting the findings.

Results

The results revealed a striving to create conditions for an appealing meal, regardless of profession. This overall theme, ‘An appealing meal – creating conditions for older persons’ mealtimes’, consisted of four sub‐themes: ‘Food is crucial’, ‘The mealtime as a social interaction’, ‘Identifying the individual older person's needs’ and ‘Integrating different perspectives of meal‐related situations among the team’.

Conclusion

The findings show that the different professionals strive to prioritise meals in the everyday care of older persons, but at same time there is a lack of a common view on how to prioritise meal‐related issues. This indicates that the care may be fragmented, being based on each professional's duties and interpretation of responsibility for older persons’ meals, rather than constituting comprehensive integrated person‐centred care provided by a multidisciplinary team.

Relevance to clinical practice

To enhance older persons’ mealtimes, we need to map how mealtimes are valued and implemented in clinical practice and approached in healthcare professionals’ education. Education on older person's nutritional needs should be team‐based, and not focus on the perspective of a single profession.
The perspectives of people with dementia on their future, end of life and on being cared for by others: A qualitative study
Authors: Bolt Sascha R. , van der Steen Jenny T. , Khemai Chandni , Schols Jos M. G. A. , Zwakhalen Sandra M. G. , Meijers Judith M. M.
Published: January 2021

Aims and objectives

To explore the perspectives of people with dementia on being cared for by others, on the future and on the end of life, and to evaluate the capability and willingness of participants to have these conversations.

Background

Awareness about perspectives of people with dementia should decrease stigmatisation and improve their quality of life. Applying palliative care principles from an early stage is important to address diverse needs and to anticipate the future. Few studies investigate perspectives of people with dementia regarding palliative care, including advance care planning.

Design

Qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

We performed in‐depth interviews with 18 community‐dwelling persons with dementia in South‐Limburg, the Netherlands. Transcripts were analysed using an inductive content analysis. Two authors coded the data and regularly compared coding. All authors discussed abstraction into categories and themes. We followed the COREQ reporting guidelines.

Results

Five overarching themes derived from the interviews were as follows: (a) My life still has value and meaning, (b) I am my own unique individual, (c) I place my trust in other people, (d) The future worries me, and (e) I accept and embrace what life brings.

Conclusions

Participants' thoughts about the future and the end of life involved feelings of ambiguity and anxiety, but also of contentment and resignation. Despite worrying thoughts of decline, participants primarily demonstrated resilience and acceptance. They expressed appreciation and trust towards those who care for them. They wished to be recognised as unique and worthy humans, until the end of life.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study demonstrates capability and willingness of people with dementia to discuss the future and end‐of‐life topics. Public and professional awareness may facilitate opportunities for informal end‐of‐life discussions. Healthcare professionals should promote belongingness of persons with dementia and strive to build equal, trustful care relationships with them and their families.
Clear cell degeneration associated with endometriosis of abdominal wall after cesarean section: A case report and systematic review of literature
Authors: Ferrari Federico , Valenti Gaetano , Forte Sara , Ardighieri Laura , Iraci Sareri Marco , Barra Fabio , Sartori Enrico , Odicino Franco
Published: January 2021

Aim

The scar of cesarean section (CS) is the most common site of abdominal wall endometriosis (AWE), whose tumor degeneration has been reported in an increasing number of cases; the most frequent histological type is clear cell carcinoma (CCC).

Methods

We conducted a systematic research of the literature, collecting data regarding the evidence on tumor degeneration from AWE after CS. Moreover, we reported a case of clear cell borderline tumor (CCBT) originating from AWE.

Results

We included data of 37 patients with diagnosis of CCC. The average time between the last CS and the diagnosis of CCC was around 15 years. Overall, 26.0% and 73.9% patients received exclusive local abdominal resection of the lesion and additional surgery, respectively. Lymph nodes involvement was detected in 26.0 % patients and adjuvant chemotherapy was administered in 52.0 % cases. During follow‐up period, 15.2% patients died of disease, 32.6% had no evidence of disease, and 17.4% recurred. We diagnosed a CCBT arose in a patients with AWE and a personal history of several surgical procedures for endometriosis, a CS and a subsequent transverse laparotomy. We performed an open bilateral ovariectomy and a large excision of the endometriotic abdominal lesion.

Conclusion

Tumor degeneration from AWE seems to be a real occurrence with an increasing number of events. Considering the lack of risk factors and diagnostic instruments for tumor degeneration, the removal of AWE localization could be advisable, even though there was long average time between the trigger surgery and the tumor finding.
Disrupted nocturnal melatonin in autism: Association with tumor necrosis factor and sleep disturbances
Authors: da Silveira Cruz‐Machado Sanseray , Guissoni Campos Leila Maria , Fadini Cintia Cristina , Anderson George , Markus Regina P. , Pinato Luciana
Published: January 2021

Sleep disturbances, abnormal melatonin secretion, and increased inflammation are aspects of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pathophysiology. The present study evaluated the daily urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) excretion profile and the salivary levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in 20 controls and 20 ASD participants, as well as correlating these measures with sleep disturbances. Although 60% of ASD participants showed a significant night‐time rise in aMT6s excretion, this rise was significantly attenuated, compared to controls (P < .05). The remaining 40% of ASD individuals showed no significant increase in nocturnal aMT6s. ASD individuals showed higher nocturnal levels of saliva TNF, but not IL‐6. Dysfunction in the initiation and maintenance of sleep, as indicated by the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children, correlated with night‐time aMT6s excretion (r = −.28, P < .05). Dysfunction in sleep breathing was inversely correlated with aMT6s (r = −.31, P < .05) and positively associated with TNF level (r = .42, P < .01). Overall such data indicate immune‐pineal axis activation, with elevated TNF but not IL‐6 levels associated with disrupted pineal melatonin release and sleep dysfunction in ASD. It is proposed that circadian dysregulation in ASD is intimately linked to heightened immune‐inflammatory activity. Such two‐way interactions of the immune‐pineal axis may underpin many aspects of ASD pathophysiology, including sleep disturbances, as well as cognitive and behavioral alterations.
CT characteristics of uterine and vaginal mesenchymal tumours in dogs
Authors: Barozzi M. C. M. , Saba C. F. , Gendron K. P.
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To describe the CT characteristics of uterine and vaginal mesenchymal tumours in dogs and to discuss imaging findings of the tumour types encountered.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study on female dogs with confirmed histological diagnosis of uterine and vaginal mesenchymal tumours and available CT images.

Results

120 records obtained through a medical record search were manually evaluated for eligibility, and 11 dogs presenting masses associated with the genital tract were identified. Of these 11 dogs, 7 dogs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. A clear degree of overlap was present between measurements of maximal diameter of benign and malignant tumours; however, malignant neoplasms tended to occupy a larger portion of the pelvic canal. Objective measurements of length suggest that malignant tumours were longer than benign forms. Bone involvement was only observed with malignancy.

Clinical Significance

Although CT is likely to play a limited role in the advanced workup of uterine and vaginal mesenchymal neoplasms, CT may represent a more accessible diagnostic tool than MRI and results of this study may help imagers familiarise themselves with their appearances.
Missed linkage to care for patients who screened positive for Hepatitis C in a tertiary care centre: Results of the Telepass project
Authors: Ponziani Francesca Romana , Santopaolo Francesco , Siciliano Massimo , De Belvis Antonio Giulio , Tortora Annalisa , Mora Vincenzina , Fanali Caterina , Morsella Alisha , Balducci Fulvio , Vetrugno Giuseppe , D’Alfonso Maria Elena , Cambieri Andrea , Cauda Roberto , Bellantone Rocco , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Pompili Maurizio , Gasbarrini Antonio
Published: January 2021

Italy is one of the countries on track with the WHO’s agenda to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030. Healthcare facilities play a crucial role in seeking patients who are infected but have not yet been treated. We assessed the effectiveness of a recall strategy, named ‘Telepass’ project, for patients exposed to HCV infection who have not yet been linked to care in a large tertiary care centre. The ‘Telepass’ project was structured in two phases: (a) a retrospective analysis first identified all anti–HCV‐positive subjects among patients who underwent pre‐operative assessment in the facility in the course of one year; (b) a following prospective phase, aimed to recall patients in need either of further diagnostic tests (ie HCV‐RNA) or treatment. A total of 12246 records of patients tested for HCV antibodies were reviewed. The overall prevalence of anti–HCV‐positive subjects was 1.83% (224/12246) with a male/female ratio of 2.07. Out of the 224 anti–HCV‐positive patients, 123 (54.91%) did not have documented HCV‐RNA tests and were therefore selected for recall. Of these, 123 were reachable and 26 (21.13%) were successfully linked to care. Ten patients (38.46%) tested HCV‐RNA positive and initiated treatment with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs). The Telepass study highlights that a recall strategy starting from internal hospital databases can help identify patients with chronic HCV infection who have not yet been linked to care, and provides an epidemiological insight into the prevalence of HCV infection in Italy in the late DAAs era.