bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food processing and occupational respiratory allergy‐ An EAACI position paper
Authors: Jeebhay Mohamed F. , Moscato Gianna , Bang Berit E. , Folletti Ilenia , Lipińska‐Ojrzanowska Agnieszka , Lopata Andreas L. , Pala Gianni , Quirce Santiago , Raulf Monika , Sastre Joaquin , Swoboda Ines , Walusiak‐Skorupa Jolanta , Siracusa Andrea
Published: April 2019

Occupational exposure to foods is responsible for up to 25% of cases of occupational asthma and rhinitis. Animal and vegetable high‐molecular‐weight proteins present in aerosolized foods during food processing, additives, preservatives, antioxidants, and food contaminants are the main inhalant allergen sources. Most agents typically cause IgE‐mediated allergic reactions, causing a distinct form of food allergy (Class 3 food allergy). The allergenicity of a food protein, allergen exposure levels, and atopy are important risk factors. Diagnosis relies on a thorough medical and occupational history, functional assessment, assessment of sensitization, including component‐resolved diagnostics where appropriate, and in selected cases specific inhalation tests. Exposure assessment, including allergen determination, is a cornerstone for establishing preventive measures. Management includes allergen exposure avoidance or reduction (second best option), pharmacological treatment, assessment of impairment, and worker's compensation. Further studies are needed to identify and characterize major food allergens and define occupational exposure limits, evaluate the relative contribution of respiratory versus cutaneous sensitization to food antigens, evaluate the role of raw versus cooked food in influencing risk, and define the absolute or relative contraindication of patients with ingestion‐related food allergy, pollinosis, or oral allergy syndrome continuing to work with exposure to aerosolized food allergens.
Four years' experience of a ROTEM®‐guided algorithm for treatment of coagulopathy in obstetric haemorrhage
Authors: McNamara H. , Kenyon C. , Smith R. , Mallaiah S. , Barclay P.
Published: April 2019

We report four years of observational data from a large UK hospital and tertiary referral unit, following the introduction of a rotational thromboelastometry‐guided algorithm for treatment of coagulopathy in major obstetric haemorrhage. Fibrinogen concentrate was used to treat acquired hypofibrinogenaemia as defined by a FibTEM A5 value of < 7 mm, or 7–12 mm with ongoing or high risk of haemorrhage. Of 32,647 deliveries over 4 years, 893 (2.7%) women had an estimated blood loss ≥ 1500 ml. Two‐hundred and three (23%) of these had a FibTEM A5 ≤ 12 mm and 110 received fibrinogen concentrate. We compared clinical outcomes and blood product use with 52 patients who met the same criteria, over a 12‐month pre‐intervention period during which shock packs were used. In the algorithm group, there was a significant reduction in the number of units (p < 0.0001) and total volume (p = 0.0007) of blood products transfused, with a reduction in transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (p = 0.002). Women with placental abruption exhibited more severe coagulopathy and required higher doses of fibrinogen concentrate than women who bled due to other causes. Analysis of rotational thromboelastometry results demonstrated that coagulopathy is not observed in all women who suffer obstetric haemorrhage and cannot be predicted solely by blood loss. Therefore, formulaic treatment with blood products is not justified. When coagulopathy does occur, it appears to be multifactorial and can be severe. Point‐of‐care testing allows early identification and individualised treatment of coagulopathy. This is supported by the improved outcomes reported.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis found significant risk of brain injury and neurosurgery in alert children after a post‐traumatic seizure
Authors: Zanetto Lorenzo , Da Dalt Liviana , Daverio Marco , Dunning Joel , Frigo Anna Chiara , Nigrovic Lise E. , Bressan Silvia
Published: April 2019

Aim

This study aimed to determine the frequency of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on neuroimaging and the need for emergency neurosurgery in children with normal mental status following a post‐traumatic seizure (PTS).

Methods

We searched six electronic databases from inception to October 15, 2018, to identify studies including children under 18 years with head injury and a Glasgow Coma Score of 15 after an immediate PTS. Relevant non‐English articles were translated to determine eligibility.

Results

We performed random effect meta‐analyses and assessed heterogeneity with I2. The pooled estimate of the frequency of TBI, from seven studies, was 13.0% (95% CI: 4.0–26.1; I2 = 81%). Data on the need of emergency neurosurgery were reported in four studies and the pooled estimate of its frequency was 2.3% (95% CI: 0.0–9.9; I2 = 86%). Two studies reported on children with isolated PTS without any other signs of head injury, representing 0.1% of patients in both studies, for a total of 76 children. Of these, only three had TBI and one underwent neurosurgery.

Conclusion

Children with immediate PTS and normal mental status frequently have TBI with a substantial need for neurosurgery. Clinicians should strongly consider neuroimaging for these children, although prolonged observation may be considered for those with isolated PTS.
From tale to reality: Geographical differences in children's flood‐risk perception
Authors: Carone Maria Teresa , Marincioni Fausto
Published: April 2019

Few studies have approached children's behaviour during flood disasters, and none of them were in Italy. In this study we performed an analysis of flood‐risk perception in children aged between six and 14 years in three Italian regions characterised by diverse typologies of flood phenomena. To perform such an analysis, we collected data using a fictional story which, through identification with the protagonist, allowed for reliable and spontaneous answers from the young respondents. The studied communities were the pilot areas of the European research project LIFE PRIMES, “Preventing flooding RIsks by Making resilient communitiES.” The findings highlighted various expressed behaviours, with some differences between areas. The most unsafe expressed behaviour was “running outside.” Such a reaction becomes proportionally less important from younger to older respondents. The safest expressed behaviour was “reaching a high place,” which appears later in children and becomes more important from younger to older respondents. Not all communities demonstrated a good correlation between those two behaviours and age groups. The analysis suggests the need to implement educational and training activities specifically focused on children's needs during flood emergencies and that take into account the different geographical conditions in which children live.
How Do Young People Become Politically Engaged?
Authors: Wray‐Lake Laura
Published: April 2019

Despite the importance of examining how adolescents and young adults contribute solutions to society's pressing problems, gaps in the literature leave unanswered the question of how young people become politically engaged. Research suggests that youth learn to be political by forming attachments to their communities and accessing opportunities in the settings of their everyday lives. Settings operate as mini‐polities through which youth develop a sense of what it means to be a member of a collective. Meaningful opportunities to practice political skills and behaviors can be fostered in schools and communities, via social media, and through policy change. Historic events, particularly elections, can also influence political attitudes and behaviors in lasting ways. Cultural and contextual variability in experiences, access to opportunities, and reactions to historic events shape youth's political developmental pathways. Research that is developmentally and culturally informed and that uses rigorous study designs can identify more effectively what determines the formation and growth of youth political engagement.
Phenotypic diversity and glucocorticoid sensitivity in patients with familial partial lipodystrophy type 2
Authors: Resende Ana Teresa Prata , Martins Clarissa Silva , Bueno Ana Carolina , Moreira Ayrton Custódio , Foss‐Freitas Maria Cristina , de Castro Margaret
Published: April 2019

Familial partial lipodystrophy type 2 (FPLD2) is characterized by insulin resistance, adipose atrophy of the extremities and central obesity. Due to the resemblance with Cushing's syndrome, we hypothesized a putative role of glucocorticoid in the pathogenesis of metabolic abnormalities in FPLD2.

Objective

To evaluate the phenotypic heterogeneity and glucocorticoid sensitivity in FPLD2 patients exhibiting the p.R482W or p.R644C LMNA mutations.

Design, patients and measurements

Prospective study with FPLD2 patients (n = 24) and controls (n = 24), who underwent anthropometric, body composition, metabolic profile and adipokines/cytokine plasma measurements. Plasma and salivary cortisol were measured in basal conditions and after 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 mg of dexamethasone (DEX) given at 23:00 hours. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and 11βHSD isoforms expression were assessed by qPCR.

Results

Familial partial lipodystrophy type 2 individuals presented increased waist and neck circumferences, decreased hip circumference, peripheral skinfold thickness and fat mass. Patients presented increased HOMA‐IR, triglycerides, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐10, and decreased adiponectin and leptin plasma levels. FPLD2 patients showed decreased ability to suppress the HPA axis compared with controls after 0.5 mg DEX. The phenotype was more pronounced in patients harbouring the p.R482W LMNA mutation. GRβ overexpression in PBMC was observed in female patients compared with female controls.

Conclusions

Familial partial lipodystrophy type 2 patients exhibited anthropometric, clinical and biochemical phenotypic heterogeneity related to LMNA mutation sites and to gender. LMNA mutations affecting both lamin A and lamin C lead to more severe phenotype. FPLD2 patients also showed blunted HPA axis response to DEX, probably due to the association of increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines with GRβ overexpression leading to a more severe phenotype in female.
Should failure to protect laws include physical and emotional sibling violence?
Authors: Perkins Nathan H. , Barry Johanna E.
Published: April 2019

Physical and emotional sibling violence is a problematic occurrence for many children, adults, and families, yet this form of violence rarely falls within the purview of state laws and policies. Failure to protect laws offer one avenue through which sibling violence can be addressed by holding parents and caregivers accountable for harm that occurs to a child in their custody. This article provides background information on physical and emotional sibling violence as well as a general overview of failure to protect laws in the context of intimate partner violence with particular consideration of these laws in addressing sibling violence. In addition, the role social work practitioners can play in intervening and addressing sibling violence through psychoeducation leading to policy (i.e., failure to act laws) is presented.
The case for embedding researchers in conservation agencies
Authors: Roux Dirk J. , Kingsford Richard T. , Cook Carly N. , Carruthers Jane , Dickson Katrina , Hockings Marc
Published: April 2019

Although protected areas represent a pivotal response to escalating anthropogenic threats, they face many pressures, inside and outside their boundaries. Amid these challenges, effective conservation is guided by evidence‐based decision making supported by dynamic processes of learning and knowledge exchange. Although different models promote knowledge exchange, embedding research scientists within conservation agencies is best suited to supporting evidence‐based conservation. Based on available literature and our experiences on several continents, we considered the benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with embedding research scientists within conservation agencies and the research required to better understand the effectiveness of the embedding model for evidence‐based conservation. Embedded researchers provide long‐term commitment to building social capital among academic and nonacademic stakeholders; act as skilled gatekeepers who increase 2‐way flow of knowledge between scientists and managers; attract, coordinate, and support management‐relevant external research projects; drive the design and maintenance of long‐term monitoring; and align their research with information needs. Notwithstanding the many benefits, research capacity of conservation agencies is declining worldwide. A significant challenge is that the values, structures, functions, and effectiveness of the embedding model of knowledge exchange remain poorly evaluated and documented. Also, embedded researchers have to balance their desire for creativity and flexibility with the standardization and quality control required by their public sector agencies; may be perceived as not credible because they are not truly independent of their agency; and have to couple scientific productivity with skills for transdisciplinary research, social facilitation, and stakeholder engagement. Systematic research on embedding and other models of knowledge exchange, across different world contexts, is required to better understand the benefits, costs, and institutional arrangements associated with different models.
Prioritizing cat‐owner behaviors for a campaign to reduce wildlife depredation
Authors: Linklater Wayne L. , Farnworth Mark J. , van Heezik Yolanda , Stafford Kevin J. , MacDonald Edith A.
Published: April 2019

Behavior prioritization is underutilized but critical to the success of conservation campaigns. It provides an understanding of the target audience's values, transcending conflict, and informing the design of achievable and effective advocacy campaigns. Depredation by domestic cats may depress wildlife populations, leading to conflict between cat owners and conservationists. We surveyed veterinarians and cat owners at veterinary clinics to prioritize a list of nine cat‐management behaviors. Cat‐owner behaviors were ranked by their (a) likelihood of implementation and (b) current adoption rate by cat owners, (c) perceived effectiveness at reducing predation on wildlife, and (d) veterinarians' opinions about their impact on cat welfare. Bringing cats in at night, from before dusk until after dawn, was revealed to be the behavior most suited to a campaign to reduce cats' hunting. Behaviors ranked as more effective for conservation (e.g., 24‐hr cat confinement) were unlikely to be adopted by cat owners or not supported by veterinarians, whose expert and normative support may be critical to a campaign. Although more conservation‐effective behaviors received a lower priority, we discuss the repeated use of behavior prioritization to achieve incremental reductions in cat depredation by engaging with cat owners.
Behavioral Operations and Supply Chain Management–A Review and Literature Mapping
Authors: Fahimnia Behnam , Pournader Mehrdokht , Siemsen Enno , Bendoly Elliot , Wang Charles
Published: April 2019

Behavioral operations research has proliferated greatly over the decade since its first formal review in 2006. The growth of the field warrants an objective mapping of contributions to the literature and the identification of trends. We conduct a systematic review of the literature of behavioral operations and supply chain management (BOSCM) across eight key operations and supply chain management journals, with publication dates through the end of June 2018. Collected articles are categorized into 12 operations contexts as well as emerging topic considerations. Key research trends, theoretical foundations, and methodological choices are discussed in each context. The results show that supply chain management, inventory management, and procurement/auctions have been the most popular operations contexts for BOSCM researchers. The results of our co‐citation analysis shows that the fundamental research areas that have informed and shaped the field include supply chain risk management, marketing, cognitive psychology, and social psychology. Based on these findings and a survey of the most prolific authors in the field, we discuss possible avenues for future research.
Financial development and economic growth nexus: A more revisionist approach
Authors: Tsionas Mike G.
Published: April 2019

I provide extensions to Nyasha and Odhiambo regarding models of the finance—growth nexus. These models allow for heterogeneity, as well as mediation versus moderation effects of financial development. The conclusion is that useful models can be very different compared to what has been done in the literature.
Parallel late ontogeny transformations in contrasting landlocked phenotypes ofSalvelinus malma(Salmonidae) from small volcanic lakes
Authors: Esin Evgeny V. , Markevich Grigorii N.
Published: April 2019

A rapid phenotype deviation is a common population response to atypical environmental conditions in aquatic animals. However, the implications for adaptive specialisation, stochastic segregation and ancestral traits fixation in the stress‐induced phenotype transformation are not clear. Here, we cross‐analyse the populations of commonly fluvial Dolly Varden charrSalvelinus malmamultiply locked in small lakes (<1 km2) throughout Kamchatkan volcanic range to assess the ratio of (non)parallel outcomes of phenotype specialisation under stress conditions. The growth rate and definitive size parameters show a twofold difference in six populations inhabiting the same resource‐poor lakes. An inter‐population comparison revealed a weakly pronounced morphological similarity—no directional vector towards lacustrine lifestyle is detected in body and skull shape. Local morphotypes experiencing random segregation and ancestral fixation processes inherit the unique morphometric, meristic and cranial characteristics. The most ancient populations are characterised by the most paedomorphic exterior and archaic anatomical peculiarities. Parallelism in population structure manifests itself in growth acceleration of some mature or maturing individuals resulting in two distinct size groups with different allometric body proportions. Small fish (50–260 g, average age 6–7 years) feed on invertebrates throughout their life, while the biggest ones (290–780 g, average age 8 years) switch to cannibalism. This transformation does not lead to any inherited sympatric polymorphism. Thus, we did not reveal any common vector of the stress‐induced specialisation; adaptive phenotypes are strongly influenced by the resource dynamics.
Effects of oak root pruning in forest nurseries on potential pathogen infections
Authors: Łakomy Piotr , Kuźmiński Robert , Mucha Joanna , Zadworny Marcin
Published: April 2019

Despite the general practice of root pruning, little is known about the potential impact of reducing shoot/root systems of oak seedlings in this way on their future susceptibility to pathogens, for exampleCylindrocarponspp.,Fusariumspp.,Ilyonectriaspp., Pythiumspp.Phytophthoraspp. orRhizoctoniaspp. In this study, root‐pruned and non‐pruned seedlings ofQuercus roburgrown under controlled conditions were inoculated with aggressive and less‐aggressive pathogens. Results indicated, in contrast to our initial assumption, that pathogens significantly reduced lateral root biomass more in non‐pruned seedlings, the extent of the response depending on the pathogens species. In response to pathogen pressure, pruned seedlings tended to attain a higher dry stem mass fraction, but lower dry leaf mass fraction. Pathogens also suppressed leaf mass in total root dry mass fraction (dry leaf mass/total root dry mass ratio, in g × g−1) more in pruned than in non‐pruned seedlings. These results suggest differences in growth between non‐pruned and pruned seedlings in response to pathogen stress. In nurseries, root pruning of oak trees may enhance the reduction in leaf mass in lateral roots mass fraction resulting from pathogen infections, which may decrease seedling quality. It is therefore important to ensure a low level of inoculum of soil‐borne pathogens to minimize the risk of seedling infection.
Susceptibility of red fir and white fir to fir dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium abietinum) in California
Authors: Mathiasen Robert L.
Published: April 2019

Fir dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium abietinum, Viscaceae) is a damaging parasite of true firs (Abiesspp.) in California. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, fir dwarf mistletoe consists of two special forms (formae speciales, f. sp.) which are morphologically similar, but exhibit a high degree of host specificity:A. abietinumf. sp. concoloris whose principal host is Sierra white fir (Abies lowiana) andA. abietinumf. sp. magnificae which only parasitizes red fir (Abies magnifica). Although field observations and cross‐inoculation studies have consistently supported the extreme host specialization demonstrated by these special forms of fir dwarf mistletoe, little quantitative data from mixed red fir/white fir stands infested with fir dwarf mistletoe have been available. Therefore, I sampled 20 mixed conifer stands dominated by red and white fir and infested with f. sp. concoloris (8 stands) or f. sp. magnificae (12 stands) from near Mount Shasta to the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains near Sherman Pass. Infection of red and white fir was evaluated using temporary circular plots (0.012 ha) established around large, severely infected trees and with rectangular transects placed within fir dwarf mistletoe‐infested stands. In each plot and transect, live trees >5 cm in diameter at breast height were assigned a dwarf mistletoe rating (6‐class system). A total of 55 plots and 51 transects were established in the 20 stands, and over 1,900 red firs and 1,700 white firs were sampled. Ninety‐nine per cent of the red firs and 98% of the white firs were infected in stands infested with f. sp. magnificae or f. sp. concoloris, respectively. In contrast, no infection of red fir was observed in stands infested with f. sp. concoloris and no infected white firs were observed in stands infested with f. sp. magnificae. These data provide further support that the special forms of fir dwarf mistletoe are extremely host specific in California.
Understanding the relations between soil organic matter fractions and N2O emissions in a long‐term integrated crop–livestock system
Authors: Sato Juliana Hiromi , de Figueiredo Cícero Célio , Marchão Robélio Leandro , de Oliveira Alexsandra Duarte , Vilela Lourival , Delvico Francisco Marcos , Alves Bruno José Rodrigues , de Carvalho Arminda Moreira
Published: April 2019

The nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in agricultural systems are influenced by edaphoclimatic conditions, and the availability of soil organic matter (SOM) is a key factor. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accumulation of labile and stable SOM fractions and possible relations with N2O emissions using a multivariate approach in a 24‐year integrated crop–livestock experiment in the Cerrado region. The management systems consisted of: continuous cropping under no tillage (CC‐NT), continuous cropping under annual heavy disc harrow (CC‐CT), an integrated crop–livestock system under no tillage (CLS‐NT) and an adjacent area of native Cerrado as reference. The cumulative N2O emissions were quantified over a period of 146 days throughout the cultivation of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). Labile and stable soil carbon (C) fractions and C contents in classes of aggregates (macroaggregates >0.250 mm and microaggregates <0.250 mm) were determined. The cumulative N2O emissions were larger in the CC‐CT system, intermediate in the CC‐NT and CLS‐NT systems, and smaller in the Cerrado. The decomposition of crop residues during the crop succession (first and second crop seasons) and the presence of a grass forage (with grazing and not grazed) in both systems (CLS‐NT and CC‐NT, respectively) explain the differences in N2O fluxes between the land uses. Smaller cumulative N2O emissions were observed in the integrated system (CLS‐NT), which could be attributed to the greatest increase in soil C in its most stable SOM fractions (fulvic acid) and occlusion in microaggregates. This confirms the hypothesis that the accumulation of C in the most stable SOM fractions of the soil, unavailable to the microbiota, results in smaller N2O emissions. Principal component analysis also revealed that aggregation is a key attribute that correlates with soil N2O emissions. Thus, conservation systems such as CLS‐NT had larger average diameter of aggregates and the smallest N2O emissions among the agroecosystems.

Highlights

Relations between SOM fractions and N2O emissions were studied in integrated systems

The accumulation of stabilized C fractions reduces N2O emissions

Soil structure (aggregation) and SOM stability partially explain N2O fluxes

Integrated crop–livestock promotes better soil conditions, reducing N2O emissions
The Epilepsy Genetics Initiative: Systematic reanalysis of diagnostic exomes increases yield
Authors:   Epilepsy Genetics Initiative
Published: April 2019

Objective

The Epilepsy Genetics Initiative (EGI) was formed in 2014 to create a centrally managed database of clinically generated exome sequence data. EGI performs systematic research‐based reanalysis to identify new molecular diagnoses that were not possible at the time of initial sequencing and to aid in novel gene discovery. Herein we report on the efficacy of this approach 3 years after inception.

Methods

One hundred sixty‐six individuals with epilepsy who underwent diagnostic whole exome sequencing (WES) were enrolled, including 139 who had not received a genetic diagnosis. Sequence data were transferred to the EGI and periodically reevaluated on a research basis.

Results

Eight new diagnoses were made as a result of updated annotations or the discovery of novel epilepsy genes after the initial diagnostic analysis was performed. In five additional cases, we provided new evidence to support or contradict the likelihood of variant pathogenicity reported by the laboratory. One novel epilepsy gene was discovered through dual interrogation of research and clinically generated WES.

Significance

EGI's diagnosis rate of 5.8% represents a considerable increase in diagnostic yield and demonstrates the value of periodic reinterrogation of whole exome data. The initiative's contributions to gene discovery underscore the importance of data sharing and the value of collaborative enterprises.
Felbamate produces antidepressant‐like actions in the chronic unpredictable mild stress and chronic social defeat stress models of depression
Authors: Li Xiuqin , Wang Hongze , Chen Qingnian , Li Zhiqin , Liu Chao , Yin Shengnan , You Zhengchen
Published: April 2019

Felbamate is an anticonvulsant used in the treatment of epilepsy. In this study, we investigated the antidepressant‐like actions of felbamate in mice. The effects of felbamate were first assessed using the forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST), and then investigated in the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) models of depression. The changes in the hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling cascade after chronic stress and felbamate treatment were also examined. It was found that felbamate exhibited antidepressant‐like activities in the FST and TST without affecting the locomotor activity of mice. Felbamate was also effective in both the CUMS and CSDS models of depression. Moreover, felbamate administration fully restored the decreased hippocampal BDNF signaling pathway in both the CUMS‐stressed and CSDS‐stressed mice. Collectively, felbamate has antidepressant‐like actions in mice involving the hippocampal BDNF system.
Changes in trophic state and aquatic communities in high Arctic ponds in response to increasing goose populations
Authors: Jensen Thomas C. , Walseng Bjørn , Hessen Dag O. , Dimante‐Deimantovica Inta , Novichkova Anna A. , Chertoprud Elena S. , Chertoprud Mikhail V. , Sakharova Ekaterina G. , Krylov Aleksandr V. , Frisch Dagmar , Christoffersen Kirsten S.
Published: April 2019

The high Arctic, including the Svalbard archipelago in the North Atlantic, has been exposed to direct and indirect drivers of climatic change such as rising temperatures and associated changes in hydrology and nutrient fluxes. In addition, the number of migrating birds, particularly geese, increased remarkably in the Svalbard archipelago during the second half of the last century. The higher number of breeding birds potentially affects water quality and the biota in ponds and lakes.

We aimed to investigate the potential influence of increasing goose abundance on trophic state, taxon richness, and species composition of freshwater communities in the high Arctic. We hypothesised that higher goose abundance affects the trophic state of shallow lakes and ponds and their taxon richness and species composition. We conducted a survey of selected ponds at Svalbard along a goose abundance gradient. We used the number of area‐specific goose droppings (range of 0–94 droppings m2) as a proxy of goose presence and measured proxies for productivity as well as taxon richness and composition of phytoplankton and invertebrate communities.

Presence and abundance of geese were associated with higher productivity of ponds. Invertebrate and phytoplankton taxon richness correlated (positively) with goose abundance. Both phytoplankton and invertebrate taxon richness increased with increasing nitrogen (N) concentrations. Goose abundance significantly affected phytoplankton species composition, while concentrations of total‐N and total phosphorus (P) did not. Species composition of aquatic invertebrates was most strongly affected by goose abundance, but the effect of total‐N concentration was also significant.

Increased goose abundance was associated with bird driven nutrient enrichment, increased phytoplankton and invertebrate taxon richness and changes of these biological communities. Thus, in addition to climate change, the higher abundances of large migratory water fowl in many polar areas may pose a major additional stress to arctic lakes and ponds. In fact, climate change and bird impact may interact, accelerating ongoing environmental change of arctic freshwater ecosystems.
Genome sequencing for rightward hemispheric language dominance
Authors: Carrion‐Castillo Amaia , Van der Haegen Lise , Tzourio‐Mazoyer Nathalie , Kavaklioglu Tulya , Badillo Solveig , Chavent Marie , Saracco Jérôme , Brysbaert Marc , Fisher Simon E. , Mazoyer Bernard , Francks Clyde
Published: April 2019

Most people have left‐hemisphere dominance for various aspects of language processing, but only roughly 1% of the adult population has atypically reversed, rightward hemispheric language dominance (RHLD). The genetic‐developmental program that underlies leftward language laterality is unknown, as are the causes of atypical variation. We performed an exploratory whole‐genome‐sequencing study, with the hypothesis that strongly penetrant, rare genetic mutations might sometimes be involved in RHLD. This was by analogy with situs inversus of the visceral organs (left‐right mirror reversal of the heart, lungs and so on), which is sometimes due to monogenic mutations. The genomes of 33 subjects with RHLD were sequenced and analyzed with reference to large population‐genetic data sets, as well as 34 subjects (14 left‐handed) with typical language laterality. The sample was powered to detect rare, highly penetrant, monogenic effects if they would be present in at least 10 of the 33 RHLD cases and no controls, but no individual genes had mutations in more than five RHLD cases while being un‐mutated in controls. A hypothesis derived from invertebrate mechanisms of left‐right axis formation led to the detection of an increased mutation load, in RHLD subjects, within genes involved with the actin cytoskeleton. The latter finding offers a first, tentative insight into molecular genetic influences on hemispheric language dominance.
A functional variant in SLC1A3 influences ADHD risk by disrupting a hsa‐miR‐3171 binding site: A two‐stage association study
Authors: Huang Xin , Zhang Qi , Chen Xinzhen , Gu Xue , Wang Min , Wu Jing
Published: April 2019

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neuropsychiatric disorders in children and adolescents with high heritability. Evidence is accumulating that SLC1A3 may play a role in ADHD etiology. Therefore, a two‐stage case‐control study was conducted on 752 cases and 774 controls to explore the role of SLC1A3 in ADHD. Bioinformatic annotations and functional experiments were applied to reveal the potential biological mechanisms. Finally, SLC1A3 rs1049522 showed significant association with ADHD risk in two stages with CA genotype vs AA genotype, odds ratio (OR) = 0.694 (95% confidence interval, CI = 0.570‐0.844) and dominant model, OR = 0.749 (95% CI = 0.621‐0.904) in the combined stage. Besides, rs1049522 was found to be related to ADHD hyperactive/impulsive symptom, and rs1049522‐C showed increased SLC1A3 mRNA expression in the cerebellar cortex. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay further indicated that rs1049522‐C allele enhanced SLC1A3 expression by disrupting the hsa‐miR‐3171 binding site. In conclusion, SLC1A3 variant rs1049522 was implicated in ADHD susceptibility in a Chinese Han population probably by enhancing the SLC1A3 expression in a miRNA‐mediated manner.
Wildfire severity reduces richness and alters composition of soil fungal communities in boreal forests of western Canada
Authors: Day Nicola J. , Dunfield Kari E. , Johnstone Jill F. , Mack Michelle C. , Turetsky Merritt R. , Walker Xanthe J. , White Alison L. , Baltzer Jennifer L.
Published: April 2019

Wildfire is the dominant disturbance in boreal forests and fire activity is increasing in these regions. Soil fungal communities are important for plant growth and nutrient cycling postfire but there is little understanding of how fires impact fungal communities across landscapes, fire severity gradients, and stand types in boreal forests. Understanding relationships between fungal community composition, particularly mycorrhizas, and understory plant composition is therefore important in predicting how future fire regimes may affect vegetation. We used an extreme wildfire event in boreal forests of Canada's Northwest Territories to test drivers of fungal communities and assess relationships with plant communities. We sampled soils from 39 plots 1 year after fire and 8 unburned plots. High‐throughput sequencing (MiSeq, ITS) revealed 2,034 fungal operational taxonomic units. We found soil pH and fire severity (proportion soil organic layer combusted), and interactions between these drivers were important for fungal community structure (composition, richness, diversity, functional groups). Where fire severity was low, samples with low pH had higher total fungal, mycorrhizal, and saprotroph richness compared to where severity was high. Increased fire severity caused declines in richness of total fungi, mycorrhizas, and saprotrophs, and declines in diversity of total fungi and mycorrhizas. The importance of stand age (a surrogate for fire return interval) for fungal composition suggests we could detect long‐term successional patterns even after fire. Mycorrhizal and plant community composition, richness, and diversity were weakly but significantly correlated. These weak relationships and the distribution of fungi across plots suggest that the underlying driver of fungal community structure is pH, which is modified by fire severity. This study shows the importance of edaphic factors in determining fungal community structure at large scales, but suggests these patterns are mediated by interactions between fire and forest stand composition.
Rethinking false spring risk
Authors: Chamberlain Catherine J. , Cook Benjamin I. , García de Cortázar-Atauri Iñaki , Wolkovich Elizabeth M.
Published: April 2019

Temperate plants are at risk of being exposed to late spring freezes. These freeze events—often called false springs—are one of the strongest factors determining temperate plants species range limits and can impose high ecological and economic damage. As climate change may alter the prevalence and severity of false springs, our ability to forecast such events has become more critical, and it has led to a growing body of research. Many false spring studies largely simplify the myriad complexities involved in assessing false spring risks and damage. While these studies have helped advance the field and may provide useful estimates at large scales, studies at the individual to community levels must integrate more complexity for accurate predictions of plant damage from late spring freezes. Here, we review current metrics of false spring, and how, when, and where plants are most at risk of freeze damage. We highlight how life stage, functional group, species differences in morphology and phenology, and regional climatic differences contribute to the damage potential of false springs. More studies aimed at understanding relationships among species tolerance and avoidance strategies, climatic regimes, and the environmental cues that underlie spring phenology would improve predictions at all biological levels. An integrated approach to assessing past and future spring freeze damage would provide novel insights into fundamental plant biology and offer more robust predictions as climate change progresses, which are essential for mitigating the adverse ecological and economic effects of false springs.
Medicine optimization strategy in an acute geriatric unit: The pharmacist in the geriatric team
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Valencia Marta , Izquierdo Mikel , Beobide‐Telleria Idoia , Ferro‐Uriguen Alexander , Alonso‐Renedo Javier , Casas‐Herrero Álvaro , Martínez‐Velilla Nicolás
Published: April 2019

Aim

Older patients admitted to acute geriatric units (AGU) frequently use many medications and are particularly vulnerable to adverse drug events, so specific interventions in this setting are required. In the present study, we describe a new medicine optimization strategy in an AGU, and explore its potential in reducing polypharmacy and improving medication appropriateness.

Methods

The present prospective study included patients aged ≥75 years who were admitted to an AGU in a tertiary hospital. An intervention based on a pharmacist clinical interview, medication history and a structured medication review within a comprehensive geriatric assessment was proposed. The differences regarding polypharmacy as the primary outcome (≥5 chronic drugs), hyperpolypharmacy (≥10), number of drugs, drug‐related problems and Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescription/Screening Tool to Alert Doctors to Right Treatment criteria between admission and discharge were evaluated.

Results

From October 2016 to April 2017, 234 patients were enrolled, aged 87.6 years (SD 4.6 years); 143 (61.1%) were women. The intervention resulted in a statistically significant improvement in polypharmacy (−10.2%, 95% CI −15.3, −5.2), hyperpolypharmacy (−16.6%, 95% CI −22.3 −11.0), number of medications (−1.4, 95% CI −1.8, −1.0), Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescription criteria (−19.2%, 95% CI −24.9, −13.6), Screening Tool to Alert Doctors to Right Treatment criteria (−6.8%, 95% CI −10.1, −3.5) and drug‐related problems (−2.7, 95% CI −2.9, −2.4; P ≤ 0.001 for all).

Conclusions

A systematic pharmacist‐led intervention at hospital admission to an AGU within a comprehensive geriatric assessment was associated to a decrease in polypharmacy, drug‐related problems and potentially inappropriate prescribing. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 530–536.
Mutational analysis of the C‐terminal cytoplasmic domain of FlhB, a transmembrane component of the flagellar type III protein export apparatus in Salmonella
Authors: Inoue Yumi , Kinoshita Miki , Namba Keiichi , Minamino Tohru
Published: April 2019

The flagellar protein export apparatus switches its substrate specificity when hook length has reached approximately 55 nm in Salmonella. The C‐terminal cytoplasmic domain of FlhB (FlhBC) is involved in this switching process. FlhBC consists of FlhBCN and FlhBCC polypeptides. FlhBCC has a flexible C‐terminal tail (FlhBCCT). FlhBCC is involved in substrate recognition, and conformational rearrangements of FlhBCN–FlhBCC boundary are postulated to be required for the export switching. However, it remains unknown how it occurs. To clarify this question, we carried out mutational analysis of highly conserved residues in FlhBC. The flhB(E230A) mutation reduced the FlhB function. The flhB(E11S) mutation restored the protein transport activity of the flhB(E230A) mutant to the wild‐type level, suggesting that the interaction of FlhBCN with the extreme N‐terminal region of FlhB is required for flagellar protein export. The flhB(R320A) mutation affected hydrophobic interaction networks in FlhBCC, thereby increasing insolubility of FlhBC. The R320A mutation also affected the export switching, thereby producing longer hooks with the filament attached. C‐terminal truncations of FlhBCCT induced a conformational change of FlhBCN–FlhBCC boundary, resulting in a loose hook length control. We propose that FlhBCCT may control conformational arrangements of FlhBCN–FlhBCC boundary through the hydrophobic interaction networks of FlhBCC.
Helicobacter pylori resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones in a pediatric population in Turkey: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Güven Burcu , Gülerman Fulya , Kaçmaz Birgül
Published: April 2019

Background

Helicobacter pylori antimicrobial resistance is gradually increasing around the world. However, there are a limited number of studies reporting on this issue in the pediatric population. In this study, we aimed to determine H pylori resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones in the pediatric patients living in Kırıkkale province that were detected with H pylori in gastric biopsies. Moreover, we also aimed to investigate the concordance between the histopathologic and molecular methods used in the diagnosis of H pylori infection.

Materials and Methods

Patients aged 2‐18 years who had a history of epigastric pain and/or nausea persisting for longer than 1 month underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Biopsies were taken from the gastric antral mucosa. In the samples detected with H pylori in the histopathologic examination, the presence of H pylori and H pylori resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones was investigated using the GenoType HelicoDR test which allows the detection of wild‐type and mutant genes. The strains detected with more than one mutant gene are defined as hetero‐resistant strains.

Results

The 93 patients that underwent DNA extraction and amplification included 68 (73.1%) girls and 25 (26.9%) boys with a median age of 15 ± 2.62 (range 6‐17) years. The overall concordance for the diagnosis of H pylori infection between histopathology and PCR was 94%, and H pylori resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones was 27% and 15%, respectively.

Conclusions

The high H pylori resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones among the pediatric patients in our region implicates that the antibiotic sensitivity of strains should be studied prior to administration in accordance with the recommendations provided in the guidelines. Moreover, the presence of hetero‐resistant strains in our patients may be a reason for treatment failure.
Enhanced photocatalytic activities of vandium and molybdenum co‐doped strontium titanate under visible light
Authors: Hoang Van‐Quoc‐Truong , Phan T‐Que-Phuong , Senthilkumar Velusamy , Doan Van‐Thuan , Kim Yong Soo , Le Minh‐Vien
Published: April 2019

In this report, undoped, mono and co‐doped perovskite strontium titanate (SrTi1−(x+y)MoxVyO3) were synthesized by the sol‐gel method, and their physical and optical properties were investigated. Furthermore, the photocatalytic degradation activities of the synthesized powders were conducted in 10 ppm methylene blue solution under visible‐light irradiation. A maximum degradation efficiency of 91.5% was achieved in SrTi0.9Mo0.05V0.05O3 powder whereas only 59.9% of degradation was found in undoped SrTiO3. The improved efficiency in co‐doped SrTiO3 was due to the doping of metal cations, Mo+6 and V+5 in the host lattice, which created impurity defect states thereby effectively reducing the bandgap energy of the semiconductor.
Influence of natamycin loading on the performance of transglutaminase‐induced crosslinked gelatin composite films
Authors: Liu Qi , Wu Xiaomeng , Qian Fang , Zhang Tao , Mu Guangqing
Published: April 2019

We investigated the effect of natamycin on the physicochemical properties of crosslinked gelatin films. Natamycin decreased the tensile strength, elongation at break and water vapour barrier of crosslinked gelatin films. The thermal stability of the crosslinked gelatin films varied considerably with natamycin amount. The crosslinked films gradually turned yellow‐green in colour with increasing natamycin content. The aforementioned different influences were associated with the altered microstructure and crystallinity of the crosslinked films induced by increasing natamycin amounts. The performance changes in the films could be attributed to the increase in natamycin, resulting in enhanced natamycin crystallinity, which was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Moreover, the crosslinking reaction could confer resistance to damage in TGase‐induced aggregation caused by natamycin crystallinity. Therefore, the findings in this paper will facilitate the development of gelatin‐based food‐contact film materials and provide theoretical direction for the packing industry.
Investigation of the arrangement of oxide ion vacancies and their effect on the crystal structure of BaFe0.9In0.1O3−δ
Authors: Fujishiro Fumito , Sasaoka Chinatsu , Shibata Yusuke , Tsuda Kenji , Hashimoto Takuya
Published: April 2019

The crystal structure of BaFe0.9In0.1O3−δ, which was prepared via heating in N2 (BFI010‐N2), was evaluated using high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and in situ convergent‐beam electron diffraction (CBED) at room temperature and 700°C. Although the crystal structure of BFI010‐N2 at room temperature was assigned to a cubic perovskite‐type structure based on the XRD results, the CBED patterns indicated that the space group of its crystal structure was not (No. 221), which corresponds to an ideal cubic perovskite. When the temperature was increased to 700°C, the symmetries for the space group of cubic perovskite were directly observed by means of in situ CBED, indicating that the partial ordering and/or clustering of oxide ion vacancies in the BFI010‐N2 vanished and that the oxide ion vacancy arrangements became completely random. The change in crystal symmetry agreed with a sudden decrease in the activation energy of oxide ion conduction at 600°C. The crystal symmetry of the BaFe0.9In0.1O3−δ sample that was prepared via heating in O2 (BFI010‐O2) and had a decreased δ value was compared with that of the BFI010‐N2 sample. It was concluded that the same phase transition also occurred by a decrease in δ, similar to phase transitions caused by increasing the temperature.
Formation mechanism of Cu2O particles using layered CaSi2 as a reduction/oxidation mediator
Authors: Itahara Hiroshi , Nakano Hideyuki
Published: April 2019

We demonstrate that Cu2O particles can be produced along with siloxene formation by simply dispersing layered CaSi2 into an aqueous solution of CuCl2 and HCl at room temperature. The Cl− ions induce oxidative extraction of Ca from CaSi2 to form siloxene and trigger the reductive deposition of Cu particles. All particles are then gradually oxidized to form Cu2O particles under optimized conditions as follows. A trace amount of residual CaSi2 is dissolved in the solution, which provides OH− ions, and a portion of the formed Cu particles are dissolved as [Cu(OH)4]2− ions. Accordingly, Cu2O particles would be formed through the comproportionation reaction between Cu and [Cu(OH)4]2− ions in the solution. However, under conditions with an excess amount of Cl− ions results in further oxidation of Cu to also form Cu2Cl(OH)3. Thus, CaSi2 acts as an effective reduction and/or oxidation mediator to tune the number of Cl− and OH− ions and control the oxidation state of Cu.