bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insomnia in Community‐Living Persons with Advanced Age
Authors: Miner Brienne , Gill Thomas M. , Yaggi H. Klar , Redeker Nancy S. , Van Ness Peter H. , Han Ling , Fragoso Carlos A. Vaz
Published: May 2018

Objective

To evaluate the epidemiology of insomnia, including demographic and clinical correlates, in older adults.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Yale Precipitating Events Project participants (N=379; mean age 84.3; 67.8% female; 11.9% African American).

Measurements

Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), with scores of 8 and higher indicating insomnia, which was further stratified according to ISI score as mild (8–14), moderate (15–21), or severe (22–28). Baseline characteristics included age, sex, race, education, smoking, obesity, medical conditions, depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression score ≥16), cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination score <24), restless legs syndrome (RLS), self‐reported sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB), medications, and daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), range 0–24).

Results

Insomnia was established in 163 (43.0%) participants (average ISI score 12.3 (mild)). For the entire sample, average baseline characteristics were as follows: 30.1% did not complete high school, 5% were current smokers, 19.2% were obese, 28.2% had cardiovascular disease, 19.3% had chronic lung disease, 27.2% had depressive symptoms, 16.1% had cognitive impairment, 36.8% had RLS, and 3.4% had self‐reported SDB; mean number of medications was 9.2, and mean ESS was 6.4. In multivariable regression models, only depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=8.34, 95% confidence interval (CI)=4.49, 15.47) and RLS (aOR=2.49, 95% CI=1.48, 4.21) were significantly associated with insomnia.

Conclusion

In a sample of older adults with high medical burden and polypharmacy, insomnia was highly prevalent but unexpectedly mild and associated only with depressive symptoms and RLS. The discordance of high prevalence but mild severity of insomnia in the oldest adults highlights the need for diagnostic confirmation with objective measures of sleep disturbances, whereas the strong associations with depressive symptoms and RLS inform priorities in managing insomnia.
Uncertainty and Variability of Energy and Material Use by Fused Deposition Modeling Printers in Makerspaces
Authors: Song Ruoyu , Clemon Lee , Telenko Cassandra
Published: May 2018

Desktop‐grade fused deposition modeling (FDM) printers are popular because of compact sizes and affordable prices. If we are moving toward a future where desktop FDM printers are in every school and office, like conventional printers, then these machines will consume a large amount of energy and material. However, it is very difficult to evaluate the environmental impacts of FDM printers since there are so many different brands and types of printers using different raw materials under different scenarios. This study uses data from two different printing sites to evaluate the scenario and parameter uncertainty and variability in energy and material balances for FDM printers. Data from the two makerspaces provide insight into the material and energy consumption data using polylactic acid and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) with four types of printers. The use of actual performance data allowed for the additional study of scrap ratio. Regressions provide insight into predictive factors for energy and material consumption. Monte Carlo simulations show the range of energy life cycle inventory values for the desktop‐grade FDM printers. From the regressions, Type A Pro was the most energy‐intensive machine. For material waste, an open‐access makerspace using ABS was associated with higher scrap ratio. Regression analysis indicates that the rate of material usage is not a strong predictor of waste rates. The amount of waste generated across both sites indicates that more ubiquitous access to FDM printing may create a significant addition to the waste stream.
Correlated time‐variation of bulk microstructure and rheology in asphalt binders
Authors: RAMM A. , SAKIB N. , BHASIN A. , DOWNER M.C.
Published: May 2018

We use near‐infrared dark‐field optical microscopy to probe isothermal time variation of the volume fraction of naturally‐occurring, subsurface microstructures in PG 64‐22 asphalt binders at temperature , following a rapid heating (cooling) increment from initial temperature . We compare these microstructure variations with isothermal time variations of the magnitude of the bulk complex shear modulus measured for identical sample conditions with a Dynamic Shear Rheometer. The main findings are: (1) Microstructure volume fraction (inferred from intensity of near‐infrared optical scatter) and both continue to change appreciably long after measurable changes of binder temperature cease. Moreover, delayed time variations in and (2) correlate closely with each other; (3) evolve on three distinct time scales – several minutes, ∼1 h, >1 day; (4) depend on binder aging; (5) are more pronounced after a cooling step () than after a heating step (); and (6) account for hysteresis in and curves observed during heating–cooling cycles.
The Development of Nonanatomic Denture Occlusion: Part IV
Authors: Engelmeier Robert L.
Published: May 2018

This fourth and final part of a four‐part series concerned with the development of nonanatomic denture occlusion follows nonanatomic tooth design from the time of Victor Sears’ first nonanatomic tooth patent through the end of the 20th century. Part IV concentrates on nonanatomic teeth developed during the last five decades of the 20th century. Many of the designs featured in this series exhibited genius, while others are pure nonsense. Sears claimed that a new nonanatomic tooth design appeared every 9 months on average during the first 30 years of nonanatomic tooth production. Many current nonanatomic tooth patents are further refinements of those earlier designs.
Local employment growth patterns and the Great Recession: The case of Spain
Authors: Holl Adelheid
Published: May 2018

The 2008 financial and economic crisis has led to widespread destruction of employment in Spain. Using municipality data, I examine employment growth differences between urban cores, urban hinterlands, and rural areas during the pre‐crisis period and the recession period. The data show that patterns of growth and decline have been very uneven across different types of areas. While in the boom years, hinterlands and rural areas experienced higher growth, urban core areas have done better during the recession years. I then test three strands of explanations for local growth differences: (i) the role of the local sectoral composition, (ii) the role of human capital, and (iii) the role of access to urban core areas. Estimations for employment growth in the two periods show that the crisis has altered some of the drivers of local employment growth and that human capital has been a key determinant of local resilience during the Great Recession.
Identification and characterization of Neopestalotiopsis clavispora associated with leaf blight of small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton)
Authors: Biju Chakkiyanickal Narayanan , Peeran Mohammed Faisal , Gowri Rajan
Published: May 2018

Leaf blight is a major foliar disease prevalent in all cardamom‐cultivating tracts, manifesting in diverse forms of symptoms. In this study, six symptomatological variants were delineated based on the expression of foliar symptoms in cardamom genotypes (Malabar, Mysore and Vazhukka) and designated as SV 1 to SV 6. Among the symptomatological variants, SV 1, SV 2, SV 3 and SV 6 were more pronounced in Vazhukka, while SV 4 and SV 5 were prominent in Malabar type. Subsequent isolation from the variants yielded whitish colonies, which were correspondingly coded as SV 1 to SV 6. The conidia were fusiform, five‐celled, with three median versicoloured cells, two terminal hyaline cells and measured 23.1–27.25 × 3.84–4.43 μm. The apical cells had two to three tubular, flexuous, unbranched appendages, whereas the basal appendage was single, tubular and unbranched. Based on conidial characteristics and molecular characterization with internal transcribed spacer rDNA region, partial β‐tubulin, translation elongation factor 1 alpha and large subunit (28S) of the nrRNA genes revealed identity of the pathogens as Neopestalotiopsis clavispora. The pathogenicity test was performed on Malabar, Mysore and Vazhukka genotypes, and Koch’s postulates were proved. In‐vitro interaction at three temperature regimes indicated that N. clavispora was inhibitory to Colletotrichum gloeosporioides at 10 and 30°C. Among the fungicides, carbendazim, propiconazole and carbendazim‐mancozeb completely arrested hyphal growth of N. clavispora under in‐vitro conditions. This study constitutes first report on the association of Neopestalotiopsis clavispora with leaf blight disease of small cardamom.
Infection with phytopathogenic bacterium inhibits melatonin biosynthesis, decreases longevity of its vector, and suppresses the free radical‐defense
Authors: Nehela Yasser , Killiny Nabil
Published: May 2018

Vector‐borne phytopathogenic bacteria may alter the reproductive fitness, survival, behavior, and metabolism of their vectors. Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) is associated with the Huanglongbing (also known as citrus greening disease), one of the most destructive citrus diseases worldwide, and transmitted by Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Insecta, Hemiptera, Liviidae). The genome sequencing of CLas revealed that it does not have the ability to synthesize tryptophan, the precursor of melatonin, and it must acquire it from its host plant or insect vector to achieve its biologic processes, such as growth and multiplication. Herein, we aimed to develop a GC‐MS‐SIM‐based method to detect the endogenous melatonin from small insects such as D. citri, and to explore the hidden relationship between melatonin content and D. citri‐adult survival. Then, we studied the ability of exogenous melatonin supplementation to reverse the negative effects of CLas‐infection. Our findings showed that CLas‐infection reduced the levels of melatonin and its biosynthetic genes (DcTPHs, DcAAAD, DcSNAT, and DcASMT) of D. citri compared to uninfected insects. In addition, CLas decreased the longevity of its vector, D. citri via the suppression of the free radical‐defense associated genes (SODs, GSTs, PODs, and PHGPXs). On the other hand, melatonin supplementation could reverse the negative effects of CLas‐infection. Melatonin supplementation enhanced the endogenous melatonin content, melatonin biosynthetic genes, free radical‐defense associated genes, and the longevity of both healthy and CLas‐infected D. citri. Furthermore, melatonin supplementation decreased the CLas bacterial population within the D. citri psyllids. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that melatonin plays multi‐layered defensive roles in D. citri. These roles include acting as a natural antioxidant or as an antibacterial compound.
Is intensity of plant root mycorrhizal colonization a good proxy for plant growth rate, dominance and decomposition in nutrient poor conditions?
Authors: Elumeeva Tatiana G. , Onipchenko Vladimir G. , Cornelissen Johannes H. C. , Semenova Galina V. , Perevedentseva Lidia G. , Freschet Grégoire T. , van Logtestijn Richard S. P. , Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A.
Published: May 2018

Questions

Mycorrhizae may be a key element of plant nutritional strategies and of carbon and nutrient cycling. Recent research suggests that in natural conditions, intensity of mycorrhizal colonization should be considered an important plant feature. How are inter‐specific variations in mycorrhizal colonization rate, plant relative growth rate (RGR) and leaf litter decomposability related? Is (arbuscular) mycorrhizal colonization linked to the dominance of plant species in nutrient‐stressed ecosystems?

Location

Teberda State Biosphere Reserve, northwest Caucasus, Russia.

Methods

We measured plant RGR under mycorrhizal limitation and under natural nutrition conditions, together with leaf litter decomposability and field intensity of mycorrhizal colonization across a wide range of plant species, typical for alpine communities of European mountains. We applied regression analysis to test whether the intensity of mycorrhizal colonization is a good predictor of RGR and decomposition rate, and tested how these traits predict plant dominance in communities.

Results

Forb species with a high level of field mycorrhizal colonization had lower RGR under nutritional and mycorrhizal limitation, while grasses were unaffected. Litter decomposition rate was not related to the intensity of mycorrhizal colonization. Dominant species mostly had a higher level of mycorrhizal colonization and lower RGR without mycorrhizal colonization than subordinate species, implying that they were more dependent on mycorrhizal symbionts. There were no differences in litter decomposability.

Conclusions

In alpine herbaceous plant communities dominated by arbuscular mycorrhizae, nutrient dynamics are to a large extent controlled by mycorrhizal symbiosis. Intensity of mycorrhizal colonization is a negative predictor for whole plant RGR. Our study highlights the importance of mycorrhizal colonization as a key trait underpinning the role of plant species in carbon and nutrient dynamics in nutrient‐limited herbaceous plant communities.
Woody plant diversity in relation to environmental factors in a seasonally dry tropical forest landscape
Authors: Dattaraja Handanakere S. , Pulla Sandeep , Suresh Hebbalalu S. , Nagaraja Mavinakoppa S. , Srinivasa Murthy Chilakunda A. , Sukumar Raman
Published: May 2018

Questions

Water availability is known to be a first‐order driver of plant diversity; yet water also affects fire regimes and soil fertility, which, in turn, affect plant diversity. We examined how precipitation, fire and soil properties jointly determine woody plant diversity. Specifically, we asked how woody plant diversity varies along a sharp precipitation gradient (about 600–1,800 mm mean annual precipitation [MAP]within a ~45‐km distance) exhibiting considerable variation in long‐term fire burn frequency and soil fertility, in a southern Indian seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) landscape.

Location

Mudumalai, Western Ghats, India.

Methods

Woody plants ≥1‐cm DBH were enumerated in 19 1‐ha permanent plots spanning a range of tropical vegetation types from dry thorn forest, through dry and moist deciduous forest to semi‐evergreen forest. Burn frequencies were derived from annual fire maps. Six measures of surface soil properties – total exchangeable bases (Ca + Mg + K), organic carbon (OC), total N, pH, plant available P and micronutrients (Fe + Cu + Zn + Mn) were used in the analyses. Five measures of diversity – species richness, Shannon diversity, the rarefied/extrapolated versions of these two measures, and Fisher's α – were modelled as functions of MAP, annual fire burn frequency and the principal components of soil properties.

Results

Most soil nutrients and OC increased with MAP, except in the wettest sites. Woody productivity increased with MAP, while fire frequency was highest at intermediate values of MAP. Woody plant diversity increased with MAP but decreased with increasing fire frequency, resulting in two local diversity maxima along the MAP gradient – in the semi‐evergreen and dry thorn forest – separated by a low‐diversity central region in dry deciduous forest where fire frequency was highest. Soil variables were, on the whole, less strongly correlated with diversity than MAP.

Conclusions

Although woody plant diversity in this landscape, representative of regional SDTFs, is primarily limited by water availability, our study emphasizes the role of fire as a potentially important second‐order driver that acts to reduce diversity in this landscape.
Left ventricular strain analysis using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in patients undergoing in‐centre nocturnal haemodialysis
Authors: Ong Jann P , Wald Ron , Goldstein Marc B , Leipsic Jonathon , Kiaii Mercedeh , Deva Djeven P , Kirpalani Anish , Jimenez‐Juan Laura , Bello Olugbenga , Azizi Paymon M , Wald Rachel M , Wright Graham A , Harel Ziv , Connelly Kim A , Yan Andrew T
Published: May 2018

Aim

Intensified haemodialysis is associated with regression of left ventricular (LV) mass. Compared to LV ejection fraction, LV strain allows more direct assessment of LV function. We sought to assess the impact of in‐centre nocturnal haemodialysis (INHD) on global LV strain (radial, circumferential, and longitudinal) and torsion by cardiac MRI (CMR).

Methods

In this prospective, two‐centre cohort study, 37 participants on conventional haemodialysis (CHD, 3–4 h/session for three sessions/week) converted to INHD (7–8 h/session for three sessions/week) and 30 participants continued CHD. Participants underwent CMR using a standardized protocol and had biomarker measurements at baseline and 52 weeks.

Results

Among the 55 participants (mean age 55; 40% women) with complete CMR data, those who converted to INHD had a significant improvement in their global circumferential strain (GCS, P = 0.025), while those continuing CHD did not have any significant changes in LV strain. When the two groups were compared, there was significant improvement in torsion. LV strains were significantly correlated with each other, but not with troponin I, C‐reactive protein, or brain natriuretic protein (NT‐proBNP), except for global longitudinal strain (GLS) with troponin I (P = 0.001) and NT‐proBNP (P = 0.038).

Conclusion

Conversion to INHD was associated with significant improvement in GCS over one year of study, although comparisons with the CHD group were not significant. There was also a significant decrease in torsion in the INHD group compared with CHD. Improvement in LV regional function would support the notion that INHD has favourable effects on both LV structure and function.
Heeding humanity in an age of electronic health records: Heidegger, Levinas, and Healthcare
Authors: Rentmeester Casey
Published: May 2018

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) required healthcare providers in the United States to adopt and demonstrate meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) by January 1, 2014. In many ways, EHRs mark a notable improvement over paper medical records as they are more easily accessible and allow for electronic searching and sharing of medical history. However, as EHRs have become mandated by ARRA, many nurses now rely upon computers far more heavily during nurse–patient interactions, thereby decreasing the level of direct interpersonal communication between the two. There is evidence that eye contact between nurses and patients positively affects patient satisfaction. Above and beyond the issue of patient satisfaction is the more basic ethical issue of respecting the patient as a person. The author argues that the templates used in electronic health systems have the possibility of eroding the respect for humanity that is the hallmark of nurse–patient relationships, as signalled by the American Nurses Association’s first principle in their Code of Ethics. Using concepts from philosophers Martin Heidegger and Emmanuel Levinas, the author provides guidance as to what an ethical interaction between nurse and patient should look like in an age of EHRs.
Gestational dyslipidaemia and adverse birthweight outcomes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang J. , Moore D. , Subramanian A. , Cheng K. K. , Toulis K. A. , Qiu X. , Saravanan P. , Price M. J. , Nirantharakumar K.
Published: May 2018

Background

Low and high birthweight is known to increase the risk of acute and longer‐term adverse outcomes, such as stillbirth, infant mortality, obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Gestational dyslipidaemia is associated with a numbers of adverse birth outcomes, but evidence regarding birthweight is still inconsistent to reliably inform clinical practice and treatment recommendations.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between maternal gestational dyslipidaemia and neonatal health outcomes, namely, birthweight, metabolic factors and inflammatory parameters.

Methods

We searched systematically Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL Plus and Cochrane Library up to 1 August 2016 (with an updated search in MEDLINE at the end of July 2017) for longitudinal studies that assessed the association of maternal lipid levels during pregnancy with neonatal birthweight, or metabolic and inflammatory parameters up to 3 years old.

Results

Data from 46 publications including 31,402 pregnancies suggest that maternal high triglycerides and low high‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol levels throughout pregnancy are associated with increased birthweight, higher risk of large for gestational age and macrosomia and lower risk of small‐for‐gestational age. The findings were consistent across the studied populations, but stronger associations were observed in women who were overweight or obese prior to pregnancy.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggested that the potential under‐recognized adverse effects of intrauterine exposure to maternal dyslipidaemia may warrant further investigation into the relationship between maternal dyslipidaemia and birthweight in large prospective cohorts or in randomized trials.
Weight bias internalization and health: a systematic review
Authors: Pearl R. L. , Puhl R. M.
Published: May 2018

A robust literature has documented the negative health effects of being the target of weight bias. Weight bias internalization (WBI) occurs when individuals apply negative weight stereotypes to themselves and self‐derogate because of their body weight. Compared with experiences of weight bias, less is known about the relationship between WBI and mental and physical health, although more literature on this topic has emerged in recent years. The current systematic review identified 74 studies assessing the relationship between WBI and health and interventions designed to reduce WBI and improve health. Over half of identified studies were published from 2016 to 2017. Results showed strong, negative relationships between WBI and mental health outcomes. Fewer studies have examined the relationship between WBI and physical health, and results were less consistent. Key directions for future research are highlighted, including the need for prospective and experimental studies with greater sample diversity.
Abnormal bone remodelling activity of dental follicle cells from a cleidocranial dysplasia patient
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Xianli , Sun Xiangyu , Wang Xiaozhe , Zhang Chenying , Zheng Shuguo
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To explore the role of dental follicle cells (DFCs) with a novel cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) causative gene RUNX2 mutation (DFCsRUNX2+/m) in delayed permanent tooth eruption.

Materials and methods

A CCD patient with typical clinical features was involved in this study. DFCsRUNX2+/m were cultured and DNA was extracted for RUNX2 mutation screening. Measurements of cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red staining and osteoblast‐specific genes expression were performed to assess osteogenesis of DFCsRUNX2+/m. Co‐culture of DFCs and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), followed tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, real‐time PCR and western blot were performed to evaluate osteoclast‐inductive capacity of DFCsRUNX2+/m.

Results

A missense RUNX2 mutation (c. 557G>C) was found in DFCsRUNX2+/m from the CCD patient. Compared with normal controls, this mutation did not affect the proliferation of DFCsRUNX2+/m, but down‐regulated the expression of osteogenesis‐related genes, leading to a decrease in ALP activity and mineralisation. Co‐culture results showed that DFCsRUNX2+/m reduced the formation of TRAP+ multinucleated cells and the expression of osteoclastogenesis‐associated genes. Furthermore, the mutation reduced the ratio of RANKL/OPG in DFCsRUNX2+/m.

Conclusions

DFCsRUNX2+/m disturbs bone remodelling activity during tooth eruption through RANK/RANKL/OPG signalling pathway and may thus be responsible for impaired permanent tooth eruption in CCD patients.
Phantom species: adjusting estimates of colonization and extinction for pseudo‐turnover
Authors: Beck Jared J. , Larget Bret , Waller Donald M.
Published: May 2018

Ecologists rely on field surveys to monitor long‐term ecological change but finite sampling and the prevalence of rare species mean that surveys inevitably miss some species present at a given location. These ‘phantom species’ produce pseudo‐turnover by inflating observed rates of local colonization and extinction in resurvey studies, especially among rare species. In this paper, we quantify the probability that pseudo‐turnover occurs due to imprecise plot relocation and/or shifts in where individuals are located. Using sampling models derived from the binomial distribution, we estimate probabilities of missing species as a function of local abundance and sampling intensity. Spatially explicit simulations confirm that our binomial model is robust to non‐random sampling schemes and clumped species distributions. False absences decline predictably as species abundance and sampling intensity increase allowing us to statistically adjust naïve estimates of colonization and extinction for expected rates of pseudo‐turnover. To illustrate the model's real‐world utility, we analyze apparent colonizations and extinctions for 331 species distributed over 83 sites in southern Wisconsin forests surveyed in both the 1950s and 2000s. Limited sampling in the 1950s means expected rates of pseudo‐colonization are appreciable. Accounting for pseudo‐turnover thus reduces estimated community‐wide colonization rates by 51% compared to naïve (observed) rates. More complete sampling in the 2000s limited overestimates of local extinction to 14%. We distinguish three zones of inference based on sampling intensity and species abundance where: 1) naïve estimates approximate true values of turnover, 2) adjustments are important, and 3) species are too rare relative to sampling to reliably infer turnover. Accounting for phantom species substantially improves our ability to accurately estimate local colonization and extinction rates, enhancing our ability to infer community dynamics and monitor long‐term ecological change.
New connections between circadian rhythms, photosynthesis, and environmental adaptation
Authors: Cano‐Ramirez Dora L. , Dodd Antony N.
Published: May 2018

This article comments on: Circadian rhythms are associated with variation in photosystem II function and photoprotective mechanisms
Awareness of and phobias about topical corticosteroids in parents of infants with eczema in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Li Yunling , Han Ting , Li Wei , Li Yin , Guo Xiaoxuan , Zheng Lei
Published: May 2018

Background/Objectives

Knowledge of and phobias about topical corticosteroids in parents of infants with eczema affect efficacy of eczema treatment.

Methods

We surveyed 300 parents of children with eczema using a questionnaire to investigate knowledge of and phobias about topical corticosteroids.

Results

Overall, 85.7% (n = 257) of children had used topical corticosteroids, with 12.8% (n = 33) of children having steroids applied for only 1‐3 days per episode; 79.4% (n = 204) of patients discontinued topical steroid therapy immediately after improvement. Twenty‐five percent (n = 75) of parents refused a prescription of steroid ointment, and 32.3% (n = 97) did not use the steroid ointment on their children despite having received a prescription. During steroid treatment, 95.7% (246) of parents were very concerned about the side effects of topical steroids. One hundred eight parents (42%) did not use a topical steroid ointment for recurrence of eczema because of concerns about using topical corticosteroids.

Conclusion

Most parents of infants with eczema had excessive concerns about topical corticosteroids, leading to inadequate treatment of atopic dermatitis. In clinical practice, physicians should reinforce parents' understanding of steroid treatment for eczema and guide rational use of topical steroids for infantile eczema.
Self‐initiated use of topical cannabidiol oil for epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Chelliah Malcolm P. , Zinn Zachary , Khuu Phoung , Teng Joyce M. C.
Published: May 2018

Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare blistering skin disorder that is challenging to manage because skin fragility and repeated wound healing cause itching, pain, limited mobility, and recurrent infections. Cannabidiol, an active cannabinoid found in cannabis, is postulated to have antiinflammatory and analgesic effects. We report 3 cases of self‐initiated topical cannabidiol use in patients with epidermolysis bullosa in an observational study. One patient was weaned completely off oral opioid analgesics. All 3 reported faster wound healing, less blistering, and amelioration of pain with cannabidiol use. Although these results demonstrate promise, further randomized, double‐blind clinical trials are necessary to provide scientific evidence of our observed benefits of cannabidiol for the treatment of epidermolysis bullosa.
Exhaled nitric oxide and mannitol test to predict exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction
Authors: Kim Kyubo , Cho Hong Je , Yoon Jung Won , Choi Sun Hee , Sheen Youn Ho , Han Man Yong , Baek Heysung
Published: May 2018

Background

Exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is diagnosed via exercise challenge on a treadmill, but such testing requires complex equipment and sufficient health‐care resources. The fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) test and mannitol bronchial provocation test (BPT) may serve as a surrogate for exercise testing.

Methods

We compared the diagnostic utilities of the FeNO test and mannitol BPT in predicting EIB in asthmatic children. We retrospectively analyzed data from 60 asthmatic children aged 6–16 years. We compared the exercise BPT results, FeNO levels, and mannitol BPT data.

Results

All subjects were divided into exercise‐positive (n = 41) or ‐negative (n = 19) BPT groups. Of the 41 exercise‐positive patients, 32 were mannitol BPT positive and nine were mannitol BPT negative. Of the 19 exercise‐negative patients, nine and 10, respectively, were mannitol BPT positive and BPT negative. The maximum % forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) decrease after exercise was positively correlated with FeNO (r = 0.556, P < 0.001), and with mannitol response–dose ratio (RDR; r = 0.416, P = 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for FeNO to discriminate between asthmatic subjects with and without EIB had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.771 (95%CI: 0.643–0.870). The discriminatory ROC curve for mannitol RDR had an AUC of 0.763 (95%CI: 0.633–0.864). The AUC of FeNO and mannitol RDR did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

EIB significantly correlated with both FeNO and mannitol BPT data. Given that both methods similarly predicted EIB in asthmatic children, the simpler and safer FeNO test alone may be a clinically useful diagnostic tool.
The ethics of crashes with self‐driving cars: A roadmap, II
Authors: Nyholm Sven
Published: May 2018

Self‐driving cars hold out the promise of being much safer than regular cars. Yet they cannot be 100% safe. Accordingly, we need to think about who should be held responsible when self‐driving cars crash and people are injured or killed. We also need to examine what new ethical obligations might be created for car users by the safety potential of self‐driving cars. The article first considers what lessons might be learned from the growing legal literature on responsibility for crashes with self‐driving cars. Next, worries about responsibility gaps and retribution gaps from the philosophical literature are introduced. This leads to a discussion of whether self‐driving cars are a form of agents that act independently of human agents. It is suggested that it is better to analyze their apparent agency in terms of human–robot collaborations, within which humans play the most important roles. The next topic is the idea that the safety potential of self‐driving cars might create a duty to either switch to self‐driving cars or seek means of making conventional cars safer. Lastly, there is a short discussion of ethical issues related to safe human–robot coordination within mixed traffic featuring both self‐driving cars and conventional cars.
High‐frequency attitude jitter correction for the Gaofen‐9 satellite
Authors: Zhang Guo , Guan Zhichao
Published: May 2018

With the gradually improving resolution of earth observation satellite images, attitude determination accuracy has become a key factor influencing image geometric positioning accuracy. However, high‐frequency attitude jitters caused by the instability of the satellite platform lead to image distortions which cannot be corrected by the low‐frequency star sensor and gyro attitude measurement. Therefore, this paper proposes a high‐frequency attitude jitter correction method based on micro‐vibration accelerometer measurement. Three images from the GaoFen‐9 (GF‐9) satellite over Lijiang in China were selected to verify the method. The correction effect was assessed in terms of road straightness and image relative registration error. The results show that the proposed method can effectively eliminate image distortions caused by high‐frequency jitters, providing a feasible way to process images from small agile satellite platforms.
Reproductive ecology ofOcotea catharinensis, an endangered tree species
Authors: Montagna T. , Silva J. Z. , Pikart T. G. , Reis M. S.
Published: May 2018

Ocotea catharinensis(Lauraceae) is an endangered tree species from the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest. Currently, little is known about the reproductive ecology of this species. Aiming to propose conservation measures, we described aspects related to phenology, floral biology, pollination, seed dispersal and mating system ofO. catharinensis.

We conducted phenological observations in 62 individuals for 2 years. In one reproductive event, we evaluated nectar production, stigmatic receptivity and pollen viability. Floral visitors were observed, identified and classified on a scale of pollination effectiveness. Seed dispersers were observed and identified using camera traps. Finally, the mating system was evaluated through pollen/ovule ratios, experimental pollination treatments and genetic analysis with molecular markers.

Ocotea catharinensispresented asupra‐annual fruiting pattern with a substantial reduction of reproducing individuals from bud phase to ripe fruit phase. Several mechanisms prompting cross‐fertilisation were identified, such as attractive, herkogamic and protogynic flowers. The main floral visitors and pollinators were from the Diptera order, and all seed dispersers were birds. The species presented a predominantly outcrossed mixed mating system with significant selfing rate (17.3%).

Although based on restricted evidence, we hypothesised that selfing is an escape mechanism for situations unfavourable to cross‐fertilisation. Specifically, for the studied population selfing is a response to reduced population size, which is caused by the non‐reproduction of all potentially reproductive individuals and by past exploitation events. Therefore, conservation efforts should be able to enhance population sizes, as well as prevent overexploitation.
Hydrothermal thresholds for seed germination in winter annual forbs from old‐field Mediterranean landscapes
Authors: Frischie S. , Fernández‐Pascual E. , Ramirez C. G. , Toorop P. , González M. H. , Jiménez‐Alfaro B.
Published: May 2018

Under Mediterranean climates with dry‐hot summers and cool‐wet winters, many forbs with potential for habitat restoration are winter annuals, but there is little information about their germination.

We performed laboratory germination experiments on 13 ruderal dicots native to Andalusia (southern Spain). We measured the germination of recently harvested seeds from natural populations across nine temperature treatments (from 5 to 35 °C, constant and alternate); two storage periods; and eight water stress treatments (from 0 to −1.0 MPa). We then calculated the hydrothermal thresholds for seed germination.

Final germination ranged from 0–100% and results were mixed in response to temperature. Base temperature was below 6 °C, optimal temperature was around 14 °C and the ceiling temperature around 23 °C. For five species, 10 months of storage improved total germination, indicating a dormancy‐breaking effect, but the other species did not respond or had their germination reduced. All species were relatively tolerant to water stress, with base water potential ranging from −0.8 to −1.8 MPa.

Our results suggest that hydrothermal germination thresholds, rather than physiological dormancy, are the main drivers of germination phenology in annual forbs from Mediterranean semi‐dry environments. The variation in germination responses of these forb species differs from winter annual grasses, but their seeds are all suitable for being stored before restoration.
Increased resistance to Verticillium dahliae in Arabidopsis plants defective in auxin signalling
Authors: Fousia S. , Tsafouros A. , Roussos P. A. , Tjamos S. E.
Published: May 2018

Auxin signalling and transport participate in plant–microbe interactions as positive or negative regulators of disease resistance. The present study investigated the responses of Arabidopsis thaliana plants impaired in the auxin receptors TIR1, AFB1 and AFB3 and the auxin transporter AXR4, upon infection by the soilborne root pathogen Verticillium dahliae. Fewer symptoms were recorded in afb1, afb3 and axr4 plants compared to the wild type (wt). qPCR analysis revealed that the decrease in symptom severity in afb1, afb3 and axr4 was correlated with reduction in the growth of the pathogen in the plants. Therefore, afb1, afb3 and axr4 are partially resistant to V. dahliae. Upon V. dahliae infection, the expression of TIR1, AFB1, AFB3 and AXR4 was up‐regulated in roots, while indole‐3‐acetic acid levels were similar to mocks. The partial resistance of afb1, afb3 and axr4 against V. dahliae can be attributed in part to the up‐regulation of defence‐related genes, as it was observed that afb1 and axr4 had higher PR1 levels than wt, while afb3 had higher PDF1.2 levels than wt. The findings of the present study suggest that the auxin signalling defective mutants afb1, afb3 and axr4 show increased resistance against V. dahliae.
Discussion of ‘Coarse‐sand beach ridges at Cowley Beach, north‐eastern Australia: Their formative processes and potential as records of tropical cyclone history’ by Tamura et al. (2018), Sedimentology, 65, 721–744
Authors: Nott Jonathan
Published: May 2018

Background

The processes resulting in the formation of a coarse‐grained sand beach ridge plain at Cowley Beach, north‐east Australia have been questioned by Tamura et al. (2018). These authors now acknowledge the conclusions by Nott et al. (2009) and Nott (2014) that the dominant depositional mechanisms here are waves and inundations generated during tropical cyclones. The Tamura et al. (2018) new ground penetrating radar data highlights that scarping of incipient ridges is a common feature and occurs regularly under non‐storm conditions. The upper sedimentary units deposited during storms are not scarped and demonstrate the high preservation potential and usefulness of these deposits for reconstructing long‐term records of tropical cyclones. Tamura et al. (2018) question the robustness of the methodology used by Nott & Hayne (2001), Nott (2003) and Nott et al. (2009) in estimating the magnitude of the storms responsible for these sedimentary deposits. These supposed issues though have been dealt with in detail in a series of publications over the past nearly two decades. The shortcomings of the Tamura et al. (2018) criticisms are explained in detail here.
Variability in student perceptions of mistreatment
Authors: Ellis Samantha , Purkiss Joel , Abdoler Emily , Opaskar Amanda , Mangrulkar Rajesh S , Kolars Joseph C , Santen Sally A
Published: May 2018

Background

As medical schools strive to improve the learning environment, it is important to understand medical students’ perceptions of mistreatment. The purpose of this study was to explore student interpretations of previously reported mistreatment incidents to better understand how they conceptualise the interactions.

Methods

Medical students were presented with case scenarios of previously reported instances of mistreatment and asked to indicate their agreement as to whether the scenarios demonstrated mistreatment, using a five‐point Likert scale (1, strongly disagree; 5, strongly agree).

It is important to understand medical student’s perceptions of mistreatment

Results

One hundred and twenty‐seven third‐year medical students gave feedback on 21 mistreatment cases. There was variability in the categorisation of the scenarios as mistreatment. The highest degree of consensus (96% agreement) was for a scenario in which a resident claimed a student made statements about a patient’s status that the student did not make. There was also relative consensus on three additional scenarios: (1) a patient making disparaging remarks about a student’s role in health care in relation to the student’s ethnicity (88% agreement); (2) a resident asking a student to run personal errands (86% agreement); and (3) a nurse calling a student an expletive in front of others (77% agreement). For the majority of the cases, there was no consensus amongst students as to whether mistreatment had occurred. Students self‐identifying as minorities and students who had previously reported mistreatment were more likely to perceive mistreatment in the scenarios.

Conclusions

There is remarkable variability, and in many cases a lack of agreement, in medical student perceptions of mistreatment. This inconsistency needs to be considered in order to effectively address and mitigate the issue.
Social Transmission of False Memory in Small Groups and Large Networks
Authors: Maswood Raeya , Rajaram Suparna
Published: May 2018

Sharing information and memories is a key feature of social interactions, making social contexts important for developing and transmitting accurate memories and also false memories. False memory transmission can have wide‐ranging effects, including shaping personal memories of individuals as well as collective memories of a network of people. This paper reviews a collection of key findings and explanations in cognitive research on the transmission of false memories in small groups. It also reviews the emerging experimental work on larger networks and collective false memories. Given the reconstructive nature of memory, the abundance of misinformation in everyday life, and the variety of social structures in which people interact, an understanding of transmission of false memories has both scientific and societal implications.
Topical polyhydroxy acid treatment for autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis in the golden retriever: a prospective pilot study
Authors: Puigdemont Anna , Furiani Nicla , De Lucia Michela , Carrasco Isaac , Ordeix Laura , Fondevila Dolors , Ramió‐Lluch Laura , Brazis Pilar
Published: May 2018

Background

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) in golden retrievers is due to a PNPLA1 gene mutation, which plays a role in epidermal lipid organization and metabolism. Topical therapies are used to reduce scaling; however, there are few published efficacy studies.

Objectives

To examine the efficacy of topical treatment based on gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid with known beneficial effects on stratum corneum structure.

Animals

Sixteen golden retriever dogs with clinical signs of ARCI and PCR‐confirmed PNPLA1 gene mutation.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicentre, noncontrolled study. Dogs were treated with a shampoo and lotion containing gluconolactone and other hydroxyl acids. Treatments were administered initially twice weekly for two weeks, then once weekly for two weeks and finally once monthly. Examinations were performed prior to and at 14 and 30 days of treatment to assess scaling, presence of other skin lesions and pruritus. In two dogs, pre‐ and 30 day post‐treatment, skin biopsies were obtained.

Results

The extent and size of the scales were reduced by 60% and 75% after 14 and 30 days of treatment, respectively (P < 0.001). In 20% of the dogs, scaling was no longer observed after the first 30 days of treatment. No other skin lesions or pruritus were observed in any dog. Post‐treatment biopsies showed normalization of the stratum corneum morphology and reduced hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion and clinical importance

The frequent use of a shampoo and lotion containing gluconolactone may be an effective measure to improve skin scaling in golden retrievers with ARCI.
Expression of ZO‐1 and claudin‐1 in a 3D epidermal equivalent using canine progenitor epidermal keratinocytes
Authors: Teramoto Keiji , Asahina Ryota , Nishida Hidetaka , Kamishina Hiroaki , Maeda Sadatoshi
Published: May 2018

Background

Previous studies indicate that tight junctions are involved in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). An in vitro skin model is needed to elucidate the specific role of tight junctions in cAD. A 3D epidermal equivalent model using canine progenitor epidermal keratinocytes (CPEK) has been established; the expression of tight junctions within this model is uncharacterized.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the expression of tight junctions in the 3D epidermal equivalent.

Animals

Two normal laboratory beagle dogs served as donors of full‐thickness skin biopsy samples for comparison to the in vitro model.

Methods

Immunohistochemical techniques were employed to investigate the expression of tight junctions including zonula occludens (ZO)‐1 and claudin‐1 in normal canine skin, and in the CPEK 3D epidermal equivalent.

Results

Results demonstrated the expression of ZO‐1 and claudin‐1 in the CPEK 3D epidermal equivalent, with staining patterns that were similar to those in normal canine skin.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The CPEK 3D epidermal equivalent has the potential to be a suitable in vitro research tool for clarifying the specific role of tight junctions in cAD.
Characterization of efficacy and safety of pathogen inactivated and quarantine plasma in routine use for treatment of acquired immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Herbrecht R. , Ojeda‐Uribe M. , Kientz D. , Fohrer C. , Bohbot A. , Hinschberger O. , Liu K.‐L. , Remy E. , Ernst C. , Lin J.‐S. , Corash L. , Cazenave J. P.
Published: May 2018

Background

Auto‐immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a morbid multi‐organ disorder. Cardiac involvement not recognized in initial disease descriptions is a major cause of morbidity. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) requires exposure to multiple plasma donors with risk of transfusion‐transmitted infection (TTI). Pathogen inactivation (PI) with amotosalen‐UVA, the INTERCEPT Blood System for Plasma (IBSP) is licensed to reduce TTI risk.

Methods

An open‐label, retrospective study evaluated the efficacy of quarantine plasma (QP) and IBSP in TTP and defined treatment emergent cardiac abnormalities. Medical record review of sequential patient cohorts treated with QP and IBSP characterized efficacy by remission at 30 and 60 days (d) of treatment, time to remission, and volume (L/kg) of plasma required. Safety outcomes focused on cardiac adverse events (AE), relapse rates, and mortality.

Results

Thirty‐one patients (18 IBSP and 13 QP) met study criteria for auto‐immune TTP. The proportions (%) of patients in remission at 30 d (IBSP = 61·1, QP = 46·2, P = 0·570) and 60 d (IBSP = 77·8, QP = 76·9, P = 1·00) were not different. Median days to remission were less for IBSP (15·0 vs. 24·0, P = 0·003). Relapse rates (%) 60 d after remission were not different between cohorts (IBSP = 7·1, QP = 40·0, P = 0·150). ECG abnormalities before and during TPE were frequent; however, cardiac AE and mortality were not different between treatment cohorts.

Conclusions

Cardiac and a spectrum of ECG findings are common in TTP. In this study, IBSP and QP had similar therapeutic profiles for TPE.