bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing grasshopper (Orthoptera: Acrididae) communities on tallgrass prairie reconstructions and remnants in Missouri
Authors: LaRose Joseph P. , Webb Elisabeth B. , Finke Deborah L.
Published: June 2019

Tallgrass prairies, which once occupied a large swath of central North America, face the combined challenges of habitat loss and fragmentation. In Missouri, where less than 1% the historical prairie remains, prairies are being reconstructed from agricultural or wooded land.

Invertebrates are often assumed to colonise reconstructions if native vegetation returns; however, the limited mobility of many invertebrates, the isolation of many tallgrass remnants, and the difficulty in establishing prairie plants raise serious questions as to whether invertebrate communities on reconstructed prairies are and will be equivalent to those found on remnant prairies.

Grasshoppers (Acrididae) display a range of dispersal capabilities and may be valuable for assessing the success of prairie restoration for invertebrates.

Our first objective was to compare grasshopper communities on reconstructed and remnant prairies and, if differences existed, identify species or functional groups associated with each habitat type. The second objective was to evaluate the effect of time because prairie reconstruction on grasshopper communities to determine if communities on reconstructions are converging with communities on remnants.

Our results suggest that prairie reconstructions in Missouri do not support the same communities of grasshoppers as prairie remnants.

Grasshopper diversity was generally greater on remnants. Many species had not colonised nearby reconstructions.

Communities on prairie reconstructions were characterised by a few long‐winged, generalist species that are typically successful in agroecosystems.

Further investigation into the habitat disparities driving low grasshopper diversity on reconstructions could help restore the grasshopper community of reconstructions.
Preparation and characterization of ceramic nanofiltration membrane prepared from hazardous industrial waste
Authors: Amin Shereen K. , Roushdy Mai H. , Abdallah Heba A. M. , Moustafa Ahmed F. , Abadir Magdi F.
Published: June 2019

Kiln rollers, which are widely used in ceramic tiles production, are usually subjected to surface grinding to remove the contaminations. The resulted fine powder is considered useless waste and a hazardous source of environmental pollution particularly as it contains health‐threatening fine free silica. In the present paper, the grind waste from kiln rollers was reused as raw material in the fabrication of nanofiltration ceramic membrane. The samples of produced ceramic membranes were formed into disks by adding 15% (by weight) organic binder solution with 2% concentration, then pressed at 35 MPa, dried and fired at temperatures range from 1100°C to 1300°C for 1 hour soaking time. It was found that the best firing temperature to produce nanofiltration ceramic membrane is 1250°C, where the ceramic membrane provides high removal of turbidity and high monovalent, divalent, and trivalent salts separation percentage.
A simulation comparison of tournament designs for the World Men's Handball Championships
Authors: Csató László
Published: June 2019

The study aims to compare different designs for the World Men's Handball Championships. This event, organized in every two years, has adopted four hybrid formats consisting of knockout and round‐robin stages in recent decades, including a change of design between the two recent championships in 2017 and 2019. They are evaluated under two extremal seeding policies with respect to various outcome measures through Monte Carlo simulations. We find that the ability to give the first four positions to the strongest teams, as well as the expected quality and outcome uncertainty of the final, is not necessarily a monotonic function of the number of matches played: the most frugal format is the second best with respect to these outcome measures, making it a good compromise in an unavoidable trade‐off. A possible error is identified in a particular design. The relative performance of the formats is independent of the seeding rules and the competitive balance of the teams. The recent reform is demonstrated to have increased the probability of winning for the top teams. Our results have useful implications for the organizers of hybrid tournaments.
Incidence and risk factors of PostopeRativE delirium in intensive care unit patients: A study protocol for the PREDICt study
Authors: Cai Shining , Lv Minzhi , Latour Jos M. , Lin Ying , Pan Wenyan , Zheng Jili , Cheng Lihong , Li Jingjing , Zhang Yuxia
Published: June 2019

Aim

The aims of this study are: (a) to determine the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) among surgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients in China and identify risk factors, especially, which are modifiable and have value for developing a prediction model; (b) to develop and validate a prediction model of delirium to recognize high‐risk patients in surgical ICUs; (c) to investigate the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of delirious patients and identify the predictors of patient outcomes.

Design

A single‐centre prospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients will be enrolled from three surgical ICUs in a tertiary teaching hospital. Delirium assessment and perioperative data will be collected throughout the hospitalization. Delirious patients will be followed up for 2 years. The study was approved by the ethics committee in May 2018 and was funded by the clinical research grant from Zhongshan hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai.

Discussion

Developing POD can be a burden to patients both for the short‐ and long‐term period. Due to the lack of effective treatments for POD, prevention remains the best strategy. This study will provide an effective tool for early screening of high‐risk patients of POD and provide a better understanding of the aetiology and outcome of delirium.

Impact

In clinical practice, a prediction model will offer an effective tool for ICU nurses to assess high‐risk patients, which can support them to implement preventive strategies at the early stages to targeted patients. The follow‐up results will help us better understand the impact of delirium on patients’ long‐term outcome.
Large amplicon droplet digital PCR for DNA‐based monitoring of pediatric chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Krumbholz Manuela , Goerlitz Katharina , Albert Christian , Lawlor Jennifer , Suttorp Meinolf , Metzler Markus
Published: June 2019

Quantification of tumour‐specific molecular markers at the RNA and DNA level for treatment response monitoring is crucial for risk‐adapted stratification and guidance of individualized therapy in leukaemia and other malignancies. Most pediatric leukaemias and solid tumours of mesenchymal origin are characterized by a relatively low mutation burden at the single nucleotide level and the presence of recurrent chromosomal translocations. The genomic fusion sites resulting from translocations are stable molecular tumour markers; however, repeat‐rich DNA sequences flanking intronic breakpoints limit the design of high sensitivity PCR assays for minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring. Here, we quantitatively evaluated the impact of repeat elements on assay selection and the feasibility of using extended amplicons (≤1330 bp) amplified by droplet digital PCR to monitor pediatric chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Molecular characterization of 178 genomic BCR‐ABL1 fusion sites showed that 64% were located within sequence repeat elements, impeding optimal primer/probe design. Comparative quantification of DNA and RNA BCR‐ABL1 copy numbers in 687 specimens from 55 pediatric patients revealed that their levels were highly correlated. The combination of droplet digital PCR, double quenched probes and extended amplicons represents a valuable tool for sensitive MRD assessment in CML and may be adapted to other translocation‐positive tumours.
CXCL16/CXCR6 is involved in LPS‐induced acute lung injury via P38 signalling
Authors: Tu Guo‐wei , Ju Min‐jie , Zheng Yi‐jun , Hao Guang‐wei , Ma Guo‐guang , Hou Jun‐yi , Zhang Xue‐peng , Luo Zhe , Lu Li‐ming
Published: June 2019

Although several chemokines play key roles in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury (ALI), the roles of chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 16 (CXCL16) and its receptor C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 6 (CXCR6) in ALI pathogenesis remain to be elucidated. The mRNA and protein expression of CXCL16 and CXCR6 was detected after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation with or without treatment with the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC). Lung injury induced by LPS was evaluated in CXCR6 knockout mice. CXCL16 level was elevated in the serum of ALI patients (n = 20) compared with healthy controls (n = 30). CXCL16 treatment (50, 100, and 200 ng/mL) in 16HBE cells significantly decreased the epithelial barrier integrity and E‐cadherin expression, and increased CXCR6 expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and p38 phosphorylation. Knockdown of CXCR6 or treatment with the p38 inhibitor SB203580 abolished the effects of CXCL16. Moreover, treatment of 16HBE cells with LPS (5, 10, 20 and 50 μg/mL) significantly increased CXCL16 release as well as the mRNA and protein levels of CXCL16 and CXCR6. The effects of LPS treatment (20 μg/mL) were abolished by treatment with PDTC. The results of the luciferase assay further demonstrated that PDTC treatment markedly inhibited the activity of the CXCL16 promoter. In conclusion, CXCL16, whose transcription was enhanced by LPS, may be involved in ROS production, epithelial barrier dysfunction and E‐cadherin down‐regulation via p38 signalling, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of ALI. Importantly, CXCR6 knockout or inhibition of p38 signalling may protect mice from LPS‐induced lung injury by decreasing E‐cadherin expression.
MiR‐140 modulates the inflammatory responses of Mycobacterium tuberculosis‐infected macrophages by targeting TRAF6
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Huang Shan , Yu Tingting , Liang Guiliang , Liu Hongwei , Pu Dong , Peng Niancai
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to examine miR‐140 expression in clinical samples from tuberculosis (TB) patients and to explore the molecular mechanisms of miR‐140 in host‐bacterial interactions during Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M tb) infections. The miR‐140 expression and relevant mRNA expression were detected by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR); the protein expression levels were analysed by ELISA and western blot; M tb survival was measured by colony formation unit assay; potential interactions between miR‐140 and the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of tumour necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. MiR‐140 was up‐regulated in the human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from TB patients and in THP‐1 and U937 cells with M tb infection. Overexpression of miR‐140 promoted M tb survival; on the other hand, miR‐140 knockdown attenuated M tb survival. The pro‐inflammatory cytokines including interleukin 6, tumour necrosis‐α, interleukin‐1β and interferon‐γ were enhanced by M tb infection in THP‐1 and U937 cells. MiR‐140 overexpression reduced these pro‐inflammatory cytokines levels in THP‐1 and U937 cells with M tb infection; while knockdown of miR‐140 exerted the opposite actions. TRAF6 was identified to be a downstream target of miR‐140 and was negatively modulated by miR‐140. TRAF6 overexpression increased the pro‐inflammatory cytokines levels and partially restored the suppressive effects of miR‐140 overexpression on pro‐inflammatory cytokines levels in THP‐1 and U937 cells with M tb infection. In conclusion, our results implied that miR‐140 promoted M tb survival and reduced the pro‐inflammatory cytokines levels in macrophages with M tb infection partially via modulating TRAF6 expression.
Daylight photodynamic therapy of actinic keratosis without curettage is as effective as with curettage: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Heerfordt I.M. , Wulf H.C.
Published: June 2019

Background

Guidelines for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of actinic keratosis (AK) recommend pretreatment with curettage. The impact of curettage on cure rate is, however, not well established.

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate whether daylight PDT without curettage could be as effective as daylight PDT with curettage.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients with multiple AKs were treated in two even‐sized areas on the face and scalp. One area was treated with standard daylight PDT starting with curettage followed by incubation with methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) for 30 min before 2 h of daylight exposure. The other area was incubated with MAL for 1 h without prior curettage before 2 h of daylight exposure. The longer incubation time was used to obtain a sufficiently high protoporphyrin IX concentration in the non‐curettaged area.

Results

There was no difference in cure rate 3 months after daylight PDT in areas pretreated with curettage (86%) compared to non‐curettaged areas (84%) (P = 0.1). Neither was there any difference between reported pain during daylight exposure (P > 0.7) or clinically evaluated erythema the day after treatment (P = 1.0).

Conclusion

Daylight PDT without curettage but with 1 h of MAL incubation before daylight exposure was shown to be as effective in treatment of thin AKs on the face and scalp as standard daylight PDT with curettage. This modification of daylight PDT eases the task for the clinic and makes it more convenient for the patients as well, creating the possibility of performing daylight PDT as an entirely home‐based treatment for AKs of the face and scalp without training the patients to perform pretreatment.
Morphological and histological characterization of an ectopically mineralized structure in a gilthead sea bream Sparus aurata with opercular deformation
Authors: Thuong Nguyen Phuc , Prondvai Edina , De Kegel Barbara , De Wolf Tania , Witten Paul Eckhard , Adriaens Dominique
Published: June 2019

In this study, we describe an abnormal ectopically mineralized structure (EMS) that was found inside the skull of a juvenile Sparus aurata that also showed a bilateral opercular deformation. The overall phenotype and tissue composition were studied using micro‐CT scanning and histological analyses. The ectopic structure occupies a large volume of the brain cavity, partially extruding into the gill cavity. It shows a dense mineralization and an extracellular matrix‐rich phenotype, with variation in both the morphology and size of the cell lacunae, combined with an irregular fibre organization inside the matrix. This study is the first to report such an EMS in a juvenile teleost fish, where the tissue does not resemble any other connective tissue type described in bony fish so far. The tissue phenotype seems to rule out that the EMS corresponds to a tumorous cartilage. Yet, it is rather reminiscent of a highly mineralized structure found in cartilaginous fish, where it is suggested to be associated with damage repair.
Adjuvant ribavirin and longer direct‐acting antiviral treatment duration improve sustained virological response among hepatitis C patients at risk of treatment failure
Authors: Lu Mei , Wu Kuan‐Han , Li Jia , Moorman Anne C. , Spradling Philip R. , Teshale Eyasu H. , Boscarino Joseph A. , Daida Yihe G. , Schmidt Mark A. , Rupp Loralee B. , Zhang Talan , Trudeau Sheri , Gordon Stuart C.
Published: June 2019

The role of ribavirin (RBV) in the era of direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) is not clear, and DAA studies have been largely genotype‐ and regimen‐specific. Using data from the Chronic Hepatitis Cohort Study, we evaluated the role of RBV and increased DAA treatment duration among patients with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) in routine clinical care. We performed multivariable analysis of data from 4133 patients receiving any of the following: sofosbuvir (SOF); daclatasvir + SOF; grazoprevir + elbasvir; paritaprevir/ritonavir + ombitasvir; simeprevir + SOF; and SOF + ledipasvir; SOF + velpatasvir ± voxilaprevir; and glecaprevir + pibrentasvir—all with/ without RBV. Inverse probability treatment weighting was used to adjust for treatment selection bias. Sustained virological response (SVR) was defined by undetectable HCV RNA 12 weeks after end of therapy. The overall SVR rate was 95%. Mean treatment duration was 12 ± 4.5 weeks. The final model included treatment duration and diabetes, as well as the interaction of RBV with previous treatment status (treatment naïve, interferon treatment failure [TF] or previous DAA TF), cirrhosis status, and HCV genotype (GT). Each one‐month increment of treatment duration increased odds of SVR by 99% (aOR = 1.99). Diabetes, previous DAA TF, and decompensated cirrhosis significantly reduced odds of SVR. RBV significantly increased the likelihood of SVR among patients with decompensated cirrhosis (aOR = 5.05), previous DAA treatment failure (aOR = 5.43), and GT3 (aOR = 13.28). Among RBV‐free regimens, patients with GT3 were less likely to achieve SVR than those with GT1 or 2 (aOR 0.07). Diabetes, decompensated cirrhosis, and prior DAA TF independently reduced the likelihood of SVR. Longer treatment duration increased likelihood of SVR. Conclusion: RBV increased likelihood of SVR among patients with GT3, previous DAA TF, or decompensated cirrhosis.
Clinical pharmacokinetics of a dexmedetomidine–methadone combination in dogs undergoing routine anaesthesia after buccal or intramuscular administration
Authors: Di Cesare Federica , Gioeni Daniela , Ravasio Giuliano , Pellegrini Alberto , Lucatello Lorena , Bisutti Vittoria , Villa Roberto , Cagnardi Petra
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to define the pharmacokinetic profiles of dexmedetomidine and methadone administered simultaneously in dogs by either an oral transmucosal route or intramuscular route and to determine the bioavailability of the oral transmucosal administration relative to the intramuscular one of both drugs, so as the applicability of this administration route in dogs. Twelve client‐owned dogs, scheduled for diagnostic procedures, were treated with a combination of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (10 μg/kg) and methadone hydrochloride (0.4 mg/kg) through an oral transmucosal route or intramuscularly. Oral transmucosal administration caused ptyalism in most subjects, and intramuscular administration caused transient peripheral vasoconstriction. The results showed reduced and delayed absorption of both dexmedetomidine and methadone when administered through an oral transmucosal route, with median (range) Cmax values of 0.82 (0.42–1.49) ng/ml and 13.22 (2.80–52.30) ng/ml, respectively. The relative bioavailability was low: 16.34% (dexmedetomidine) and 15.5% (methadone). Intramuscular administration resulted in a more efficient absorption profile, with AUC and Cmax values for both drugs approximately 10 times higher. Dexmedetomidine and methadone administered simultaneously by an oral transmucosal route using injectable formulations were not well absorbed through the oral mucosa. Nevertheless, additional studies on these drugs combination using alternative administration routes are recommended.
Allies Already Poised to Comply: How Social Proximity Affects Lactation at Work Law Compliance
Authors: Hoffmann Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2019

This study demonstrates how legal compliance may be better achieved when organizations include individuals who will advocate for newly codified rights and related accommodations. To understand compliance with a new law and the rights it confers, this article examines as its case study the Lactation at Work law, which amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to mandate basic provisions for employees to express breast milk at work. In particular, this study interviewed those organizational actors who translate the law into the policies affecting workers' daily lives: supervising mangers and human resources personnel. Those studied in this article were “Allies Already:” friends or relatives of breastfeeding workers, or ones themselves, who held pro-breastfeeding values and understood the complexities of combining lactation and employment. They mobilized within their organization to comply with the law swiftly and fully—often even overcomplying. This article demonstrates how heightened compliance, particularly with new laws, may be achieved even without directly affected actors mobilizing their own rights if allies champion needed accommodations.
Total liver phosphatidylcholine content associates with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and glycine N‐methyltransferase expression
Authors: Männistö Ville , Kaminska Dorota , Kärjä Vesa , Tiainen Mika , de Mello Vanessa D. , Hanhineva Kati , Soininen Pasi , Ala‐Korpela Mika , Pihlajamäki Jussi
Published: June 2019

Background & Aims

Alterations in liver phosphatidylcholine (PC) metabolism have been implicated in the pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although genetic variation in the phosphatidylethanolamine N‐methyltransferase (PEMT) enzyme synthesizing PC has been associated with disease, the functional mechanism linking PC metabolism to the pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) remains unclear.

Methods

Serum PC levels and liver PC contents were measured using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in 169 obese individuals [age 46.6 ± 10 (mean ± SD) years, BMI 43.3 ± 6 kg/m2, 53 men and 116 women] with histological assessment of NAFLD; 106 of these had a distinct liver phenotype. All subjects were genotyped for PEMT rs7946 and liver mRNA expression of PEMT and glycine N‐methyltransferase (GNMT) was analysed.

Results

Liver PC content was lower in those with NASH (P = 1.8 x 10−6) while serum PC levels did not differ between individuals with NASH and normal liver (P = 0.591). Interestingly, serum and liver PC did not correlate (rs = −0.047, P = 0.557). Serum PC and serum cholesterol levels correlated strongly (rs = 0.866, P = 7.1 x 10−49), while liver PC content did not correlate with serum cholesterol (rs = 0.065, P = 0.413). Neither PEMT V175M genotype nor PEMT expression explained the association between liver PC content and NASH. Instead, liver GNMT mRNA expression was decreased in those with NASH (P = 3.8 x 10−4) and correlated with liver PC content (rs = 0.265, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Decreased liver PC content in individuals with the NASH is independent of PEMT V175M genotype and could be partly linked to decreased GNMT expression.
The intermingling of benthic macroinvertebrate communities during a period of shifting range: The “East of Nantucket” Atlantic Surfclam Survey and the existence of transient multiple stable states
Authors: Powell Eric N. , Mann Roger , Kuykendall Kelsey M. , Long M. Chase , Timbs Jeremy R.
Published: June 2019

A survey of the region eastward of Nantucket provided an opportunity to examine the cold temperate–boreal boundary along the high‐energy Great South Channel. Here described are the benthic macroinvertebrate community types encountered, with a focus on the influence of climate change on the range boundaries of the benthic biomass dominants and the potential existence of transient multiple stable states. The survey identified three primary community types. The shallowest sites were occupied by a surfclam‐dominated community, comprising an abundance of large (≥150 mm) surfclams, and a few common attached epibiota primarily attached to exposed surfclam shell. Two communities exist at intermediate depths, one dominated by submarket and small market‐size surfclams (<150 mm) and the other, created by mussel mats and their attendant epibiota, crabs, sea urchins, and other mobile epifauna. Mussels are a foundational species, establishing a hard‐bottom terrain conducive to these other denizens in soft‐bottom habitat. Cobbles were nearly ubiquitous, rocks were routinely recovered, and boulders were encountered occasionally. Slow growing attached epibionts were exceedingly rare and mobile epifauna were not obviously associated with these large sedimentary particles; nor were the surfclam or mussel communities. The frequency of barnacle scars suggests sediment scour under the high‐flow regime characteristic of the surveyed region, which voids the habitat potential of these sedimentary particles. The abundance of surfclam shell indicates that surfclams have inhabited the shoaler depths for an extended time; limited shell at deeper sites supports the inference from the absence of large animals that these sites are relatively newly colonized and represent further evidence of an offshore shift in range brought on by increasing bottom water temperatures. The dichotomous nature of the two primary community types at mid‐depths suggests that these two communities represent multiple stable states brought on by the interaction of an invading cold temperate species with the receding boreal fauna resulting in a transient intermingling of species, which, however, structure the habitat into exclusionary stable states rather than overlapping in a co‐occurrence ecotone.
Ex vivo HSC expansion challenges the paradigm of unidirectional human hematopoiesis
Authors: Papa Luena , Djedaini Mansour , Hoffman Ronald
Published: June 2019

Understanding mechanisms that determine the behavior of human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is essential for developing novel strategies to expand ex vivo the number of fully functional HSCs. In this review, we focus on the complex interplay between intrinsic mechanisms regulated by transcriptional and mitochondrial networks and extrinsic signals imposed by the bone marrow microenvironment, which in concert regulate the balance between HSC self‐renewal and differentiation. Such integrated signaling mechanisms that dictate the fate of HSCs in vivo must be recapitulated ex vivo to achieve successful expansion of clinically relevant HSCs. We also highlight some of the most recent ex vivo HSC expansion strategies that have currently entered clinical development. Finally, based on the evidence reviewed here and lessons learned from ex vivo HSC expansion, we raise some critical questions regarding HSC fate and the cellular plasticity of hematopoietic cells that challenge the unidirectional model of human hematopoiesis.
Analysis of the genetic architecture of maize kernel size traits by combined linkage and association mapping
Authors: Liu Min , Tan Xiaolong , Yang Yan , Liu Peng , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Zhang Yinchao , Wang Lei , Hu Yu , Ma Langlang , Li Zhaoling , Zhang Yanling , Zou Chaoying , Lin Haijian , Gao Shibin , Lee Michael , Lübberstedt Thomas , Pan Guangtang , Shen Yaou
Published: June 2019

Kernel size‐related traits are the most direct traits correlating with grain yield. The genetic basis of three kernel traits of maize, kernel length (KL), kernel width (KW) and kernel thickness (KT), was investigated in an association panel and a biparental population. A total of 21 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected to be most significantly (P < 2.25 × 10−6) associated with these three traits in the association panel under four environments. Furthermore, 50 quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling these traits were detected in seven environments in the intermated B73 × Mo17 (IBM) Syn10 doubled haploid (DH) population, of which eight were repetitively identified in at least three environments. Combining the two mapping populations revealed that 56 SNPs (P < 1 × 10−3) fell within 18 of the QTL confidence intervals. According to the top significant SNPs, stable‐effect SNPs and the co‐localized SNPs by association analysis and linkage mapping, a total of 73 candidate genes were identified, regulating seed development. Additionally, seven miRNAs were found to situate within the linkage disequilibrium (LD) regions of the co‐localized SNPs, of which zma‐miR164e was demonstrated to cleave the mRNAs of Arabidopsis CUC1, CUC2 and NAC6 in vitro. Overexpression of zma‐miR164e resulted in the down‐regulation of these genes above and the failure of seed formation in Arabidopsis pods, with the increased branch number. These findings provide insights into the mechanism of seed development and the improvement of molecular marker‐assisted selection (MAS) for high‐yield breeding in maize.
Genome‐wide quantitative trait loci reveal the genetic basis of cotton fibre quality and yield‐related traits in a Gossypium hirsutum recombinant inbred line population
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Li Junwen , Jamshed Muhammad , Shi Yuzhen , Liu Aiying , Gong Juwu , Wang Shufang , Zhang Jianhong , Sun Fuding , Jia Fei , Ge Qun , Fan Liqiang , Zhang Zhibin , Pan Jingtao , Fan Senmiao , Wang Yanling , Lu Quanwei , Liu Ruixian , Deng Xiaoying , Zou Xianyan , Jiang Xiao , Liu Ping , Li Pengtao , Iqbal Muhammad Sajid , Zhang Chuanyun , Zou Juan , Chen Hong , Tian Qin , Jia Xinhe , Wang Baoqin , Ai Nijiang , Feng Guoli , Wang Yumei , Hong Mei , Li Shilin , Lian Wenming , Wu Bo , Hua Jinping , Zhang Chaojun , Huang Jinyong , Xu Aixia , Shang Haihong , Gong Wankui , Yuan Youlu
Published: June 2019

Cotton is widely cultivated globally because it provides natural fibre for the textile industry and human use. To identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs)/genes associated with fibre quality and yield, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was developed in upland cotton. A consensus map covering the whole genome was constructed with three types of markers (8295 markers, 5197.17 centimorgans (cM)). Six fibre yield and quality traits were evaluated in 17 environments, and 983 QTLs were identified, 198 of which were stable and mainly distributed on chromosomes 4, 6, 7, 13, 21 and 25. Thirty‐seven QTL clusters were identified, in which 92.8% of paired traits with significant medium or high positive correlations had the same QTL additive effect directions, and all of the paired traits with significant medium or high negative correlations had opposite additive effect directions. In total, 1297 genes were discovered in the QTL clusters, 414 of which were expressed in two RNA‐Seq data sets. Many genes were discovered, 23 of which were promising candidates. Six important QTL clusters that included both fibre quality and yield traits were identified with opposite additive effect directions, and those on chromosome 13 (qClu‐chr13‐2) could increase fibre quality but reduce yield; this result was validated in a natural population using three markers. These data could provide information about the genetic basis of cotton fibre quality and yield and help cotton breeders to improve fibre quality and yield simultaneously.
A case series of demodicosis in children
Authors: Douglas Annyella , Zaenglein Andrea L.
Published: June 2019

Demodex mites are commensal inhabitants of the pilosebaceous unit that are typically absent or at low numbers in childhood. When they are present, they can cause a primary eruption or exacerbate an underlying facial dermatosis. Here we report five cases of demodicosis occurring in childhood, the clinical presentations, and responses to treatment. Papulopustular lesions predominate, prompting the advice “pustules on noses, think demodicosis!”
Examining time‐dependent effects of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions using an agent‐based model
Authors: Kang Jeon‐Young , Aldstadt Jared
Published: June 2019

The effects of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions have been well acknowledged to reduce the risk from diarrheal disease‐causing pathogens. In spite of the recognized importance of WASH interventions on the reduction of diarrheal disease, there are still gaps in the understanding of the time‐varying effects of interventions. To bridge this research gap, we developed agent‐based models (ABMs) of diarrheal disease transmission in a community context. In the model, infections occur via two pathways: (i) between household members within the household environment and (ii) from the community environment outside the household. To measure the effectiveness of WASH interventions, we performed global sensitivity analysis (GSA) at the macro and micro temporal scales, varying the level of intervention coverage in the community. We simulated three intervention strategies, implemented separately in the experiments. The clean drinking water intervention, sanitation intervention, and hand washing intervention had similar success rates in the long‐term. The handwashing intervention had the largest immediate effect. This highlights that proper short‐ and long‐term intervention strategies need to be considered for disease control and the effective management of limited resources.
How do I audit intraoperative blood component utilization in cardiac surgery?
Authors: Hensley Nadia B. , Cho Brian C. , Visagie Mereze , Lester Laeben C. , Abernathy James H. , Frank Steven M.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Patient blood management programs are tasked with auditing transfusions for appropriateness; however, cardiac surgical programs have high variability in blood utilization. After benchmarking intraoperative blood utilization as higher than expected, we devised effective methods for audits with feedback to the cardiac anesthesiologists that are described in this report.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Red blood cell (RBC), plasma, platelet (PLT), and cryoprecipitate transfusion data were collected from the electronic record system for 2242 patients having cardiac surgery from July 2016 until July 2018. In July 2017, we performed audits with feedback using rank‐order bar graphs displayed on the anesthesiology office door for intraoperative blood utilization. Individual providers were compared to their peers for all four major blood components, with the goal of improving practice by reducing variability.

RESULTS

After the audits with feedback, the intraoperative mean units/patient decreased for RBCs (from 1.9 to 1.2 units/patient; p = 0.0004), for plasma (from 1.8 to 1.2 units/patient; p = 0.0038), and for PLTs (from 0.7 to 0.4 units/patient; p < 0.0001), but not for cryoprecipitate (from 0.24 to 0.18 units/patient; p = 0.13). Whole hospital (from admit to discharge) utilization decreased significantly for plasma and PLTs, but the changes for RBCs and cryoprecipitate were nonsignificant.

CONCLUSION

Despite challenges in abstracting data from the electronic medical record, using such data to create provider‐specific audits with feedback can be an effective tool to promote quality improvement. Future plans include audits with feedback for providers who order transfusion outside the operating room.
The Public-Private Partnership Model in the Management of Early Childhood Policy in Medellin: Case Study
Authors: Álvarez Castaño Luz Stella , Goez Juan Diego , Quintero María Teresa
Published: June 2019

Objective: State outsourcing of the provision of health care policies is part of the neoliberal model. Early childhood policy in Medellin is managed under the public-private partnership modality with private non-profit institutions. The purpose of this study was to establish the philosophical foundations of the policy, the state’s control over the policy, pressure from interest groups and the working conditions of workers. Method: It is a qualitative study. Results: It was found that the philosophical foundations of the policy are public because the rights of the child inspire it; the state (city government) leads the policy, defines the guidelines and supervises compliance of objectives. However, the policy is carried out at the expense of the labor rights of professionals, and there is pressure on hiring by interest groups. Conclusion: The outsourcing of public policies to local non-profit organizations has adverse outcomes similar to policy outsourcing carried out through private companies.
Calidad en la certificación de mortalidad y natalidad en un hospital universitario, Colombia año 2014
Authors: Rodríguez García Jesús , Vega Landaeta Angela Patricia , Jaramillo Luis Fernando , Fernández Ortiz Yesika , Suarez Morales Zuly Bibiana , Vásquez Candia María Elizabeth
Published: June 2019

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir y analizar el proceso de certificación de muerte y nacimiento de un hospital docente en Bogotá en el año 2014, tanto en términos de flujo de información como de calidad de la causa de muerte asignada. Se diseñó una metodología para monitorear la calidad y cobertura de las estadísticas de nacimientos y muertes hospitalarias. Durante su práctica de salud pública, diecisiete estudiantes de noveno semestre de Medicina participaron en la recopilación de información sobre 511 registros clínicos de muertes no fetales, excluyendo las muertes por una causa externa que ocurrieron en 2014 (58 % de todas las muertes no fetales ocurridas en el hospital ese año). Los estudiantes, previamente entrenados, completaron los certificados de defunción, supervisados ​​por profesores de diferentes especialidades, de acuerdo con el diagnóstico, mediante el acceso a los registros médicos de los fallecidos. La causa básica de muerte asignada después de la revisión se comparó con la causa básica originalmente certificada por médicos del hospital, en el sistema de registro en línea en uso en Colombia: RUAF-ND. Se estimó el acuerdo en la identificación de la causa básica de muerte. Se obtuvo una concordancia bruta del 80 % y un acuerdo de Kappa entre el 57 % y el 95 %, todos superiores, estadísticamente, a cero, al agrupar las causas básicas de muerte por capítulos de la CIE10, con un 6 % de códigos inutilizables en las dos bases. Este estudio podría ser replicado en otros hospitales universitarios y así fortalecer la capacitación de estudiantes de medicina en estadísticas vitales mientras se monitorea la calidad del registro de nacimientos y muertes en hospitales docentes.
Salud es política: pensamiento social de Floreal Antonio Ferrara y sus contribuciones para repensar “lo político” en la salud
Authors: Carnut Leonardo , Zöllner Ianni Áurea Maria
Published: June 2019

Después del golpe institucional de 2016 en Brasil, la repolitización de la salud ganó centralidad. Para reconectar el debate de la política con el campo de la salud colectiva, esta investigación revisitó la obra de Floreal Antonio Ferrara, sanitarista cuyo pensamiento crítico ayuda a repensar lo “político” en salud. Se utilizó el análisis del contenido del tomo 2 de su obra titulada Teoría política y salud, tomando como referencia teórico-conceptual lo que Júnior y Pogrebinschi delimitan como “teoría política”. En un primer acercamiento, se identificó que Ferrara apuesta por el concepto de “salud” como un acto eminentemente político y sus argumentos se apoyan en un enfoque crítico marxista. Después de esta sistematización, se pudo concluir que la política no es una categoría autónoma en una sociedad capitalista y comprender que “la salud es conflicto” es saber que ser trata de una pieza política no menos importante en este gran engranaje.
Las variaciones de la satisfacción vital según edad y clima organizacional en trabajadores de la salud
Authors: Mendoza Llanos Rodolfo , Moyano Díaza Emilio
Published: June 2019

La satisfacción vital es un predictor de enfermedades físicas que tiene una relación consistente con la satisfacción laboral y con la edad, pero su relación con esta última es aún contradictoria. Se evalúa aquí el impacto del clima organizacional y la satisfacción laboral en la satisfacción vital de 623 trabajadores de un hospital del sur de Chile, según edad (20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59 años), mediante un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Se observa que el clima organizacional, mediado por la satisfacción laboral, tiene un impacto directo y positivo sobre la satisfacción de vida de los trabajadores, incrementándola conforme aumenta la edad, principalmente entre los 4059 años. La gestión que busque optimizar el clima organizacional así como la satisfacción laboral contribuirá a aumentar el bienestar de los trabajadores en su espacio laboral, y por transferencia también su satisfacción con la vida en general.
Desempeño neuropsicológico e indicadores de frecuencia, duración y tiempo de la sesión del ejercicio físico
Authors: Aguirre-Loaiza Haney , Parra Jeisón , Bartolo Laura Jimena , Cardona María Alexandra , Arenas Jaime Alberto
Published: June 2019

Objetivo. El ejercicio físico (EF) se relaciona con estructuras cerebrales y funcionamiento cognitivo; sin embargo, se desconocen indicadores de frecuencia, duración e intensidad del EF asociados a procesos neuropsicológicos. Estudiar la relación y las posibles diferencias entre las funciones ejecutivas (FE) y los indicadores del EF (frecuencia, duración y tiempo que lleva practicando EF). Método. Se seleccionó una muestra intencional de treinta sujetos físicamente activos, pareados por sexo (Medad = 22.9, DE = 8.5). Se aplicó la totalidad de la Batería de Funciones Ejecutivas y Lóbulos Frontales (Banfe). Resultados. El desempeño neuropsicológico se relacionó con la frecuencia del EF en tareas que evalúan capacidades de control inhibitorio, seguimiento de límites y normas, memoria de trabajo visoespacial y anticipación de acciones de orden progresivo y regresivo. La duración y el tiempo de entrenamiento presentaron relación con la planeación, respeto por los límites y la inhibición. Aquellos participantes que se ejercitan más de seis veces por semana presentaron mejor desempeño en los aciertos y menor número de errores en el control inhibitorio. No se diferencia el desempeño neuropsicológico en función a indicadores y tipo de EF. Conclusión. Se confirma la hipótesis acerca de que el EF se asocia con procesos neuropsicológicos. Se abren posibles implicaciones científicas, educativas y clínicas.
Efecto de la empatía afectiva sobre el procesamiento cortical de emojis
Authors: Gantiva Carlos , Zarabanda Andrés , Ricaurte Jenny , Calderón Luz , Ortiz Katherine , Castillo Karen
Published: June 2019

Objetivo. Identificar las diferencias en el procesamiento cortical de emojis en personas con alta y baja empatía afectiva. Método. El estudio se llevó a cabo con 69 participantes, distribuidos en dos grupos –baja y alta empatía afectiva–, según su puntaje en el Índice de Reactividad Interpersonal. Cada participante observó emojis con expresiones de alegría, ira y neutros. Se registraron los potenciales relacionados a eventos (PRE) P100, N170 y LPP. Resultados. Se encontró una mayor amplitud del N170 en el grupo de personas con alta empatía afectiva y, en general, mayor magnitud del LPP ante emojis de ira. Conclusión. Los resultados sugieren que los emojis son procesados corticalmente de forma similar al rostro humano y que la empatía afectiva modula la codificación del emoji, pero no la atención temprana y el enganche atencional hacia estos estímulos.
Blockchain Enables New Power Markets
Authors: Kosowatz John
Published: June 2019

Traditional generating stations that produce baseload power measured in hundreds of megawatts are either closing or struggling, unable to compete with inexpensive power produced by solar, wind, or natural gas-burning plants. To handle these multitude of distributed, small-bore sources, a new smart grid is developing, where small buyers and sellers of electricity may find a marketplace. But for that to break into the mainstream, a new system linking disparate generators, buyers, and sellers with fast and secure transactions still needs development. Many industry experts suggest that this new system could well be based on blockchain, a digital technology commonly associated with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. This article takes a closer look at a few pilot projects moving in various market segments.
Interface trap characterization of AlN/GaN heterostructure with Al2O3, HfO2, and HfO2/Al2O3 dielectrics
Authors: Kim Hogyoung , Yun Hee Ju , Choi Seok , Choi Byung Joon
Published: June 2019

The interfacial properties of AlN/GaN heterostructures with different dielectric layers such as Al2O3, HfO2, and HfO2/Al2O3 prepared by atomic layer deposition were investigated. Interface state density versus energy level plots obtained from the Terman method revealed the peculiar peaks at ∼0.25 eV for the samples with Al2O3 and HfO2/Al2O3 and at ∼0.52 eV for the sample with HfO2, associated with nitrogen vacancy-related defects. According to the parallel conductance method, both the interface and border traps were observed for the sample with Al2O3. However, the border traps were not observed with including an HfO2 layer. The lowest interface trap density and the reverse leakage current were obtained for the sample with an HfO2/Al2O3 bilayer. Analysis of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra obtained from the HfO2 layers showed the formation of Hf–Al–O bonding for the sample with HfO2 while such formation was not observed for the sample with HfO2/Al2O3. These results indicate the superior interfacial quality of AlN/GaN heterostructures with an HfO2/Al2O3 bilayer.
Exercising Alone or Exercising With Others and Mental Health Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Longitudinal Analysis of Cross-Lagged and Simultaneous Effects
Authors: Harada Kazuhiro , Masumoto Kouhei , Kondo Narihiko
Published: June 2019

Background: Although the beneficial effects of physical activity and exercise on mental health are well known, the optimal conditions for them for benefitting mental health are still unclear. Engaging in exercise with others might have more desirable effects on mental health than engaging in exercise alone. This study examined the associations between exercising alone, exercising with others, and mental health among middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Baseline and 1-year follow-up surveys were conducted with 129 individuals. Time spent exercising alone or with others was measured using a 7-day diary survey. Total physical activity was objectively measured using an accelerometer. Mental well-being was assessed using the simplified Japanese version of the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index, and mental distress was assessed using the Japanese version of the Kessler Distress Scale (K6). Results: Cross-lagged and simultaneous effects models revealed that exercising with others positively influenced mental well-being. Exercising alone and total physical activity did not significantly influence mental well-being. Neither total physical activity, exercising alone, nor exercising with others was significantly associated with mental distress. Conclusion: Engaging in exercise with others could be effective in improving mental well-being relative to engaging in exercise alone.
Manipulation of eight-dimensional Bell-like states
Authors: Kong Ling-Jun , Liu Rui , Qi Wen-Rong , Wang Zhou-Xiang , Huang Shuang-Yin , Wang Qiang , Tu Chenghou , Li Yongnan , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: June 2019

Researchers manipulation and measure the eight hyperentangled Bell-like state in eight-dimensional Hilbert space.
Asymmetric hot-carrier thermalization and broadband photoresponse in graphene-2D semiconductor lateral heterojunctions
Authors: Lin Yuxuan , Ma Qiong , Shen Pin-Chun , Ilyas Batyr , Bie Yaqing , Liao Albert , Ergeçen Emre , Han Bingnan , Mao Nannan , Zhang Xu , Ji Xiang , Zhang Yuhao , Yin Jihao , Huang Shengxi , Dresselhaus Mildred , Gedik Nuh , Jarillo-Herrero Pablo , Ling Xi , Kong Jing , Palacios Tomás
Published: June 2019

The broadband photothermoelectric effect has been studied on a graphene-2D semiconductor lateral heterojunction.
Observing momentum disturbance in double-slit “which-way” measurements
Authors: Xiao Ya , Wiseman Howard M. , Xu Jin-Shi , Kedem Yaron , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: June 2019

Observing nonlocal momentum change clarifies the wave-particle duality.
Ultrafast sub–30-fs all-optical switching based on gallium phosphide
Authors: Grinblat Gustavo , Nielsen Michael P. , Dichtl Paul , Li Yi , Oulton Rupert F. , Maier Stefan A.
Published: June 2019

Pump-probe spectroscopy of a gallium phosphide film shows potential for efficient ultrafast sub–30-fs all-optical switching.