bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsic activity temporal structure reactivity to behavioural state change is correlated with depressive symptoms
Authors: Duncan Niall W. , Hsu Tzu‐Yu , Cheng Paul Z. , Wang Hsin‐Yi , Lee Hsin‐Chien , Lane Timothy J.
Published: June 2020

The brain's intrinsic activity plays a fundamental role in its function. In normal conditions this activity is responsive to behavioural context, changing as an individual switches between directed tasks and task‐free conditions. A key feature of such changes is the movement of the brain between corresponding critical and sub‐critical states, with these dynamics supporting efficient cognitive processing. Breakdowns in processing efficiency can occur, however, in brain disorders such as depression. It was therefore hypothesised that depressive symptoms would be related to reduced intrinsic activity responsiveness to changes in behavioural state. This was tested in a mixed group of major depressive disorder patients (n = 26) and healthy participants (n = 37) by measuring intrinsic EEG activity temporal structure, quantified with detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA), in eyes‐closed (EC) and eyes‐open task‐free states and contrasting between the conditions. The degree to which DFA values changed between the states was found to correlate negatively with depressive symptoms. DFA values did not differ between states in those with higher symptom levels, meaning that the brain remained in a less flexible sub‐critical condition. This sub‐critical condition in the EC state was further found to correlate with levels of maladaptive rumination. This may reflect a general cognitive inflexibility resulting from a lack in neural activity reactivity that may predispose people to overly engage in self‐directed attention. These results provide an initial link between intrinsic activity reactivity and psychological features found in psychiatric disorders.
The special issue on cancer and evolution: Lessons learned
Authors: DeGregori James
Published: June 2020

This special issue of evolutionary applications focused on the evolution of cancer has provided a wealth of different viewpoints and results from leaders in the field. Together, these papers emphasize the importance of a broad perspective in order to understand why we and other animals get cancer, how it evolves within an individual, and what we can do about it. We can no longer take reductionist approaches that consider only the cancer cells and their genes. Instead, we need to understand how millions of years of evolution have guided strategies that shape cancer risk, why cancer risk varies across different animals, how cancer risk can vary in a population and be influenced by ecology (and influence this ecology), and of course how cancers evolve within us and the evolutionarily informed strategies to counter their impact. My goal here will be to “bring it all home,” providing a refresher of lessons learned with added kibitzing.
A systematic assessment of mycobacterial F1‐ATPase subunit ε’s role in latent ATPase hydrolysis
Authors: Wong Chui‐Fann , Lau Aik‐Meng , Harikishore Amaravadhi , Saw Wuan‐Geok , Shin Joon , Ragunathan Priya , Bhushan Shashi , Ngan So‐Fong Cam , Sze Siu Kwan , Bates Roderick W. , Dick Thomas , Grüber Gerhard
Published: June 2020

In contrast to most bacteria, the mycobacterial F1FO‐ATP synthase (α3:β3:γ:δ:ε:a:b:b’:c9) does not perform ATP hydrolysis‐driven proton translocation. Although subunits α, γ and ε of the catalytic F1‐ATPase component α3:β3:γ:ε have all been implicated in the suppression of the enzyme’s ATPase activity, the mechanism remains poorly defined. Here, we brought the central stalk subunit ε into focus by generating the recombinant Mycobacterium smegmatis F1‐ATPase (MsF1‐ATPase), whose 3D low‐resolution structure is presented, and its ε‐free form MsF1αβγ, which showed an eightfold ATP hydrolysis increase and provided a defined system to systematically study the segments of mycobacterial ε’s suppression of ATPase activity. Deletion of four amino acids at ε’s N terminus, mutant MsF1αβγεΔ2‐5, revealed similar ATP hydrolysis as MsF1αβγ. Together with biochemical and NMR solution studies of a single, double, triple and quadruple N‐terminal ε‐mutants, the importance of the first N‐terminal residues of mycobacterial ε in structure stability and latency is described. Engineering ε’s C‐terminal mutant MsF1αβγεΔ121 and MsF1αβγεΔ103‐121 with deletion of the C‐terminal residue D121 and the two C‐terminal ɑ‐helices, respectively, revealed the requirement of the very C terminus for communication with the catalytic α3β3‐headpiece and its function in ATP hydrolysis inhibition. Finally, we applied the tools developed during the study for an in silico screen to identify a novel subunit ε‐targeting F‐ATP synthase inhibitor.
Novel FMRP interaction networks linked to cellular stress
Authors: Taha Mohamed S. , Haghighi Fereshteh , Stefanski Anja , Nakhaei‐Rad Saeideh , Kazemein Jasemi Neda S. , Al Kabbani Mohamed Aghyad , Görg Boris , Fujii Masahiro , Lang Phillip A. , Häussinger Dieter , Piekorz Roland P. , Stühler Kai , Ahmadian Mohammad R.
Published: June 2020

Silencing of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene and consequently lack of synthesis of FMR protein (FMRP) are associated with fragile X syndrome, which is one of the most prevalent inherited intellectual disabilities, with additional roles in increased viral infection, liver disease, and reduced cancer risk. FMRP plays critical roles in chromatin dynamics, RNA binding, mRNA transport, and mRNA translation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms, including the (sub)cellular FMRP protein networks, remain elusive. Here, we employed affinity pull‐down and quantitative LC‐MS/MS analyses with FMRP. We identified known and novel candidate FMRP‐binding proteins as well as protein complexes. FMRP interacted with 180 proteins, 28 of which interacted with its N terminus. Interaction with the C terminus of FMRP was observed for 102 proteins, and 48 proteins interacted with both termini. This FMRP interactome comprises known FMRP‐binding proteins, including the ribosomal proteins FXR1P, NUFIP2, Caprin‐1, and numerous novel FMRP candidate interacting proteins that localize to different subcellular compartments, including CARF, LARP1, LEO1, NOG2, G3BP1, NONO, NPM1, SKIP, SND1, SQSTM1, and TRIM28. Our data considerably expand the protein and RNA interaction networks of FMRP, which thereby suggest that, in addition to its known functions, FMRP participates in transcription, RNA metabolism, ribonucleoprotein stress granule formation, translation, DNA damage response, chromatin dynamics, cell cycle regulation, ribosome biogenesis, miRNA biogenesis, and mitochondrial organization. Thus, FMRP seems associated with multiple cellular processes both under normal and cell stress conditions in neuronal as well as non‐neuronal cell types, as exemplified by its role in the formation of stress granules.
Interdisciplinary communication and collaboration as key to improved nutritional care of malnourished older adults across health‐care settings – A qualitative study
Authors: Verwijs Marije H. , Puijk‐Hekman Saskia , van der Heijden Ellen , Vasse Emmelyne , de Groot Lisette C. P. G. M. , de van der Schueren Marian A. E.
Published: June 2020

Background

Malnutrition is a risk factor for impaired functionality and independence. For optimal treatment of malnourished older adults (OA), close collaboration and communication between all stakeholders involved (OA, their caregivers and health‐care and welfare professionals) is important. This qualitative study assesses current collaboration and communication in nutritional care over the continuum of health‐care settings and provides recommendations for improvement.

Methods

Eleven structured focus group interviews and five individual interviews took place in three regions across the Netherlands from November 2017 until February 2018, including OA, caregivers and health‐care and welfare professionals. Various aspects of collaboration and communication between all stakeholders were discussed. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using a thematic approach.

Results

Six main themes emerged: causes of malnutrition, knowledge and awareness, recognition and diagnosis of malnutrition, communication, accountability and food preparation and supply. Physical and social aspects were recognized as important risk factors for malnutrition. Knowledge and awareness regarding malnutrition were acknowledged as being insufficient among all involved. This may impair timely recognition and diagnosis. Responsibility for nutritional care and its communication to other disciplines are low. Food preparation and supply in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and home care are below expected standards.

Conclusion

Many stakeholders are involved in nutritional care of OA, and lack of communication and collaboration hinders continuity of nutritional care over health‐care settings. Lack of knowledge is an important risk factor. Establishing one coordinator of nutritional care is suggested to improve collaboration and communication across health‐care settings.
Large‐scale synthesis and growth mechanism of boron nitride nanocomposite assembled by nanosheets and nanotubes
Authors: Wang Heng , Xu Man , Ping Hang , Fu Zhengyi
Published: June 2020

Boron nitride nanocomposites assembled by nanosheets and nanotubes can exert multi‐dimensional synergistic toughening and strengthening effects. This material is expected to be a high‐efficiency reinforcement additive in advanced structural ceramics. In this study, we designed a universal method for synthesizing gram‐scale boron nitride nanocomposites by annealing the precursor containing catalyst in chemical vapor deposition equipment under flowing ammonia, and a combined growth mechanism of surface‐diffusion and solid‐liquid‐solid is proposed. The boron nitride nanosheets were initially formed by a surface‐diffusion reaction between boron trioxide and ammonia at 1300°C. At elevated temperatures (1400°C‐1500°C), the boron nitride nanotubes grew in‐situ from the nanosheets in the presence of catalysts through a solid‐liquid‐solid mechanism, forming the desired boron nitride nanocomposite.
MoS2 co‐catalyst sensitized 3D TiO2/CdS photoanodes with enhanced photoelectrochemical performances
Authors: Li Hongxia , Cheng Mingliang , Zhang Jian , Liu Xianguo , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: June 2020

Regulating morphology and constructing heterojunctions to enhance the light absorption and boost the separation of electrons and holes are common and effective means to boost the photoelectrochemical (PEC) performances of TiO2 photoanodes. In this study, TiO2 nanoflowers (NFs)/CdS quantum dots (QDs)/MoS2 nanosheets (NSs) hybrids with two type II band alignments were synthesized by facile hydrothermal, successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction, and dipping methods, respectively. The effects of different amount of MoS2 co‐catalysts on CdS decorated TiO2 photoanodes were investigated. TiO2 NFs/CdS QDs/MoS2 NSs hybrids showed dramatically enhanced PEC performance, especially under visible light illumination. The photocurrent density of TiO2 NFs/CdS QDs/MoS2‐50 was more than 10 times higher than that of TiO2 NFs/CdS QDs. This innovative work sheds light on efficiently improving the light absorption by forming heterojunctions and accelerating the electron and hole transfer via specific band engineering design.
Effect of Yb concentration on the microstructures, spectra, and laser performance of Yb: CaF2 transparent ceramics
Authors: Li Weiwei , Huang Haijun , Mei Bingchu , Wang Cong , Liu Jie , Wang Shaozhao , Jiang Dapeng , Su Liangbi
Published: June 2020

Ytterbium‐doped calcium fluoride transparent ceramics is considered as a promising laser gain medium. How to prepare low scattering loss ceramics is the main challenge at present. In this study, a simple route of hot‐pressing method was introduced to fabricate high optical quality of Yb: CaF2 laser ceramics with different concentration of Yb ions. The influence of Yb concentration on the particle sizes of the powders, microstructure, fluorescence spectra, output power, and laser emitting spectra of Yb: CaF2 transparent ceramics was discussed. About 976 nm LD pumped CW laser operation has been demonstrated in 1, 2, 4, and 5 at.% Yb doped CaF2 ceramics. A maximum average output power of 0.809 W was obtained for the 5 at.% Yb: CaF2 ceramics with the slope efficiency was 26%.
Lowest drought sensitivity and decreasing growth synchrony towards the dry distribution margin of European beech
Authors: Muffler Lena , Weigel Robert , Hacket‐Pain Andrew J. , Klisz Marcin , van der Maaten Ernst , Wilmking Martin , Kreyling Juergen , van der Maaten‐Theunissen Marieke
Published: June 2020

Aim

Climate limits the potential distribution ranges of species. Establishment and growth of individuals at range margins is assumed to be more limited by extreme events such as drought or frost events than in the centre of their range. We explore whether the growth of beech is more sensitive to drought towards the dry distribution margin and more sensitive to frost towards the cold distribution margin. Furthermore, we aim to gain insight into the adaptive potential of beech towards both the dry and cold distribution margins.

Location

European gradient from the dry (Spain) to the cold (Poland, Sweden) distribution margin of beech.

Taxon

European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.).

Methods

We applied a range‐wide dendroecological study to analyse spatial and temporal trends in climate–growth relationships. We further investigated negative growth anomalies and growth synchrony towards the range margins.

Results

We found beech to be drought sensitive across its whole range, except at the dry distribution margin. Furthermore, sensitivity to winter temperature was not found in the centre or at the cold distribution margin, but at the southern distribution margin. Growth synchrony was lower at the dry than at the cold distribution margin.

Main conclusions

Beech seems to be adapted to drought at the dry distribution margin with a high adaptive potential indicated by the lowest growth synchrony along the gradient. At the cold distribution margin, cold events in winter and spring were less important for growth than drought. Still, the importance of spring frost for beech growth appears to increase in recent decades. Considering a projected north‐eastward shift of the distribution range, beech is likely facing drought stress in combination with spring frost risk at the cold margin which could lead to a hampered range expansion.
Inhibition of the Notch1 pathway induces peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhu Rong‐rong , Chen Qian , Liu Zhi‐bo , Ruan Han‐guang , Wu Qi‐cai , Zhou Xue‐liang
Published: June 2020

Increased expression and activity of cardiac and circulating cathepsin D and soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1) have been demonstrated to induce and promote peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) via promoting cleavage of 23‐kD prolactin (PRL) to 16‐kD PRL and neutralizing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), respectively. We hypothesized that activation of Hes1 is proposed to suppress cathepsin D via activating Stat3, leading to alleviated development of PPCM. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of Notch1/Hes1 pathway in PPCM. Pregnant mice between prenatal 3 days and postpartum 3 weeks were fed with LY‐411575 (a notch inhibitor, 10 mg/kg/d). Ventricular function and pathology were evaluated by echocardiography and histological analysis. Western blotting analysis was used to examine the expression at the protein level. The results found that inhibition of Notch1 significantly promoted postpartum ventricular dilatation, myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial interstitial fibrosis and suppressed myocardial angiogenesis. Western blotting analysis showed that inhibition of Notch1 markedly increased cathepsin D and sFlt‐1, reduced Hes1, phosphorylated Stat3 (p‐Stat3), VEGFA and PDGFB, and promoted cleavage of 23k‐D PRL to 16‐kD PRL. Collectively, inhibition of Notch1/Hes1 pathway induced and promoted PPCM via increasing the expressions of cathepsin D and sFlt‐1. Notch1/Hes1 was a promising target for prevention and therapeutic regimen of PPCM.
Life‐history, exploitation and extinction risk of the data‐poor Baraka's whipray (Maculabatis ambigua) in small‐scale tropical fisheries
Authors: Temple Andrew J. , Stead Selina M. , Jiddawi Narriman , Wambiji Nina , Dulvy Nicholas K. , Barrowclift Ellen , Berggren Per
Published: June 2020

The Baraka's whipray (Maculabatis ambigua) is a major constituent of small‐scale fisheries catch in the south‐western Indian Ocean. Despite this, little is known of its life‐history or exploitation status. We provide the first estimates of crucial life‐history parameters and the maximum intrinsic population growth rate rmax, using specimens collected from small‐scale fisheries landings in Kenya, Zanzibar and Madagascar (with northern Madagascar representing a range extension for this species). We assess the relative risk of overexploitation by combining rmax with estimates of total Z, fishing F, and natural M mortality, and an estimate of the exploitation ratio E. The data indicate that Baraka's whipray is a medium‐sized, fast‐growing, early maturing species, with a relatively long lifespan. This results in a high rmax relative to many other elasmobranchs, which when combined with estimates of F suggests that the species is not at imminent risk of extinction. Yet, estimates of exploitation ratio E indicate likely overfishing for the species, with full recruitment to the fishery being post‐maturation and exploitation occurring across a broad range of age and size classes. Thus, Baraka's whipray is unlikely to be biologically sustainable in the face of current fisheries pressures. This paper makes an important contribution to filling the gap in available data and is a step towards developing evidence‐based fisheries management for this species. Further, it demonstrates a simple and widely applicable framework for assessment of data‐poor elasmobranch exploitation status and extinction risk.
Landscape factors modulating patterns of salmonid distribution during summer in north Patagonian rivers
Authors: Lallement Mailén E. , Rechencq Magalí , Fernández María V. , Zattara Eduardo , Sosnovsky Alejandro , Vigliano Pablo , Garibotti Gilda , Alonso Marcelo F. , Lippolt Gustavo , Macchi Patricio J.
Published: June 2020

Understanding how ecosystem processes influencing fish distribution operate across spatial scales is important to understand biological invasions. Salmonids, originally from the Northern Hemisphere, have been repeatedly introduced throughout the world, making them an ideal group to test hypotheses about factors driving invasions. We assessed the influence of environmental variables at the watershed scale on the abundance and structure of salmonid assemblages in the breeding streams of the Upper Limay river basin, Rio Negro, Argentina. We combined field captures with digital map data and geographic information systems to examine landscape‐level patterns of salmonid abundance in 35 representative sub‐basins of the environmental gradient. We employed a hierarchical cluster analysis and classification and regression tree models to relate the abundance of salmonids and types of species assemblages with environmental characteristics at watershed level. We found stream localization, precipitation regime, altitude and air temperature to be important predictors of the abundance and assemblage structure of salmonids. Total catches showed an increasing gradient of catch‐per‐unit‐effort from west to east and from north to south, with Oncorhynchus mykiss being the most abundant species. O. mykiss relative abundance was westward skewed, where smaller catchments with steeper and shaded valleys are drained by less productive streams with more irregular hydrological regimes, like those found in this species' North American native range. In contrast, the abundance of Salmo trutta abundance was eastward skewed, where larger, sunnier and more gently sloped catchments result in more productive streams with stable hydrological regimes, like those found in that species' European native range. Thus, differential salmonid abundance could result from the interplay between the evolutionary fingerprint left by each species' native environment (especially flow and temperature regimes) and the availability of those conditions in new environments to which they have been translocated. By furthering our understanding of how landscape conditioned invasion success, these findings can help guide the management of economically important introduced fish.
Outcome of interventional radiology for delayed postoperative hemorrhage in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery
Authors: Sakai Nozomu , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Furukawa Katsunori , Takayashiki Tsukasa , Kuboki Satoshi , Takano Shigetsugu , Suzuki Daisuke , Kagawa Shingo , Mishima Takashi , Nakadai Eri , Ohtsuka Masayuki
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Postoperative hemorrhage is a rare but potentially lethal complication of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the clinical outcome of patients with delayed postoperative hemorrhage and compare the results according to the surgical procedure.

Methods

Overall, 4220 patients underwent surgery for hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases. Delayed postoperative hemorrhage (observed more than 24 h postoperatively) occurred in 62 patients. Of these, 61 underwent interventional radiology to achieve hemostasis. Patients' clinical data were analyzed retrospectively. The chi‐squared or Fisher's exact test was used in data analysis.

Results

A total of 62 patients (1.5%) developed delayed postoperative hemorrhage; 61 (1.4%) of them underwent interventional radiology to achieve hemostasis. Median duration from surgery to interventional radiology was 19 days (range: 5–252 days). Sentinel bleeding was detected in 31 patients; Clinical success was achieved in 54 patients (88.5%) by interventional radiology. Overall mortality rate was 26.2%. Causes of 16 in‐hospital deaths were uncontrollable hemorrhage (n = 4) and worsening of general condition after hemostasis (n = 12). Mortality rates were 50.0% (11/22) and 12.8% (5/39) after hepatobiliary surgery and pancreatic resection, respectively. Mortality rate was significantly higher after hepatobiliary surgery than after pancreatic surgery (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Interventional radiology can be successfully performed to achieve hemostasis for delayed hemorrhage after hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries. Because successful interventional radiology does not necessarily lead to survival, particularly after hepatobiliary surgery, meticulous attention to prevent surgical complications and intensive treatments before and after interventional radiology are required to improve outcomes.
Blastodermal development, hatchability and chick quality of Marshall® broiler breeders of different flock ages during egg storage
Authors: Uyanga Victoria A. , Onagbesan Okanlawon M. , Abiona John A. , Egbeyale Lawrence T. , Oke Oyegunle E. , Akinjute Obafemi F.
Published: June 2020

The blastoderm, which represents the fertilized germinal disc, undergoes cellular events of division, differentiation and organization to achieve embryonic development in chickens. In this study, blastodermal cell counts and hatching performance of Marshall® broiler breeders as influenced by flock age and egg storage were investigated. A total of 1,520 eggs from the flock ages, 43 weeks (younger) and 65 weeks (older), under similar management and nutritional regime were incubated after storage at 16°C with 75% relative humidity for duration of 0 (fresh eggs), 4, 7 and 10 days. Results show that total blastodermal cell counts (BCC) for both ages declined with increasing storage duration, with a sharp regression at 4d storage from younger breeders. Higher percentages of fertility and hatchability were recorded for younger breeders compared to older breeders. Percentage hatchability was statistically similar (p > .05) for both 43 weeks and 65 weeks old broiler breeders under 0, 4 and 7d storage except at 10d storage which was lower for older breeders. Chick lengths were longer with younger breeders whereas older breeders had heavier chick weights. Also, significant associations were found between BCC and fertility, hatchability of fertile eggs and chick weights, respectively, under different conditions. These results indicate that fresh eggs (0d) and short‐term stored eggs (4‐ and 7 d) from 43 weeks old breeders had higher total blastodermal cell counts, fertility, hatchability and increased chick lengths compared to 65 week old breeders which produced heavier chicks. Therefore, egg storage longer than 7 days especially from older breeders resulted in modifications to the blastoderm which subsequently affected fertility, hatchability, embryo liveability and hatched chick quality. Also, detection of BCC in fertile eggs can serve as a predictive tool in fertility and hatchability evaluations.
Raman study of shock features in plagioclase feldspar from the Mistastin Lake impact structure, Canada
Authors: Xie Tianqi , Osinski Gordon R. , Shieh Sean R.
Published: June 2020

Plagioclase feldspar is one of the most abundant minerals on the surface of the Earth, the Moon, and Mars, and is also commonly found in meteorites. Studying shock effects in feldspar thus provides us with fundamental information about impact cratering processes on planetary bodies. In this study, plagioclase from monomict and polymict breccias, impact melt rocks, and shock‐metamorphosed target rocks, from throughout the Mistastin Lake impact structure, Canada, was examined using 514 nm laser Raman spectroscopy. As one of the very few impact structures with anorthosite in the target rocks, the Mistastin Lake impact structure provides a unique opportunity to study shocked plagioclase displaying progressive shock metamorphic features. A series of microscopic features was observed within plagioclase, including twins, needle‐like inclusions, planar features, and alteration. The lack of planar deformation features is notable. Raman spectra of these features suggest that this technique is capable of differentiating and classifying shock features in low to moderately shocked rocks. Caution should be exercised, however, as Raman spectra collected from unshocked plagioclase references with known compositions indicate that peak width and peak ratio of the Raman peaks in lower wave number region (<350 cm−1) and the main signature peaks around 500 cm−1 vary with chemical composition and crystal orientation. Data collected from diaplectic glass suggest that Raman features are efficient in distinguishing crystalline plagioclase and diaplectic glass. We also observed significant variations in the Raman intensities collected from diaplectic glass, which we ascribe to the localized disorder or inhomogeneity of shock pressure and temperature throughout the target.
Does missed nursing care influence the use of physical restraint and its duration in acute medical patients? Secondary analysis of a longitudinal study
Authors: Palese Alvisa , Danielis Matteo , Cicogna Chiara , Grassetti Luca
Published: June 2020

Missed nursing care and physical restraint have been identified as indicators of patient safety, but no studies to date have explored their relation. To explore the relation between these two phenomena, a secondary analysis of a longitudinal study on 1464 in‐hospital patients and 314 registered nurses was performed. The use of physical restraint was assessed at the bedside on a daily basis; missed care was assessed with the MISSCARE survey. Individual, nursing care, and hospital‐level variables were measured. A total of 184 (12.6%) patients were restrained for 20.33% of their in‐hospital stay. No significant differences emerged in the occurrence of missed care between restrained and unrestrained patients. However, some common antecedents of these two phenomena emerged: in units where there is a lack of personnel, both an increase in missed care and physical restraint duration should be expected. As a consequence, patients are threatened in their right to receive the required care and they are at risk of being restrained. Moreover, a higher skill mix is a preventive factor, which suggests that the increased numbers of registered nurses on the team, may prevent routine forms of physical restraint use by analyzing the physical restraint in place critically and removing them as soon as possible, thus reducing the duration of the restraints.
Topography consistently drives intra‐ and inter‐specific leaf trait variation within tree species complexes in a Neotropical forest
Authors: Schmitt Sylvain , Hérault Bruno , Ducouret Émilie , Baranger Anne , Tysklind Niklas , Heuertz Myriam , Marcon Éric , Cazal Saint Omer , Derroire Géraldine
Published: June 2020

Tropical forests shelter the highest species diversity worldwide, although genus diversity is lower than expected. In the species‐rich genera, species complexes are composed of closely‐related species that share large amounts of genetic variation. Despite the key role of species complexes in diversification, evolution and functioning of ecological communities, little is known on why species complexes arise and how they are maintained in Neotropical forests. Examining how individual phenotypes vary along environmental gradients, within and among closely‐related species within species complexes, can reveal processes allowing species coexistence within species complexes. We examined leaf functional trait variation with topography in a hyperdiverse tropical forest of the Guiana Shield. We collected leaf functional traits from 766 trees belonging to five species in two species complexes in permanent plots encompassing a diversity of topographic positions. We tested the role of topography on leaf functional trait variation with a hierarchical Bayesian model, controlling for individual tree diameter effect. We show that, mirroring what has been previously observed among species and communities, individual leaf traits covary from acquisitive to conservative strategy within species. Moreover, decreasing wetness from bottomlands to plateaus was associated with a shift of leaf traits from an acquisitive to a conservative strategy both across and within closely‐related species. Our results suggest that intraspecific trait variability widens species’ niches and converges at species’ margins where niches overlap, potentially implying local neutral processes. Intraspecific trait variability favors local adaptation and divergence of closely‐related species within species complexes. It is potentially maintained through interspecific sharing of genetic variation through hybridization.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Oblique Lumbar Interbody Debridement and Fusion for the Treatment of Lumbar Spondylodiscitis
Authors: Wang Bingjin , Chen Chao , Hua Wenbin , Ke Wencan , Lu Saideng , Zhang Yukun , Zeng Xianlin , Yang Cao
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of minimally invasive oblique lumbar interbody debridement and fusion for the treatment of conservatively ineffective lumbar spondylodiscitis.

Methods

This is a retrospective study. Between December 2016 and November 2017, a total of 14 consecutive patients (eight males and six females, with an average age of 49.1 years, range from 42 to 74 years) with single‐level lumbar spondylodiscitis were included in the study. The inclusion criteria include single‐level spondylodiscitis without spinal deformity or epidural abscess, ineffective conservative treatment (continuously aggravated clinical symptoms and uncontrollable infective symptoms treated with antibiotics for more than 6 weeks), minimally invasive oblique lumbar interbody fusion surgery (Mis‐OLIF) and iliac graft for the treatment of lumbar spondylodiscitis, and postoperative follow‐up >12 months. Each patient was treated Mis‐OLIF. Clinical outcomes including demographic characteristics, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP), visual analog scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), American Spinal Injury Association neurological classification, and lordotic angle were analyzed.

Results

The infectious levels included L1/2 (one patient), L2/3 (two patients), L3/4 (eight patients), and L4/5 (three patients). The pathogens found in these patients included Staphylococcus aureus (5), brucellosis (6), and enterobacterium (2). The pathogen was undefined in one patient. The mean duration of the surgery, mean blood loss, and mean follow‐up were 89.3 ± 17.5 min, 155.0 ± 49.4 mL, and 16.8 ± 4.2 months, respectively. The ESR and CRP decreased after Mis‐OLIF and antibiotic administration. The average preoperative VAS score was 6.9 ± 0.9, then decreased to 3.0 ± 1.0 (t = 14.18, P < 0.001) and 0.6 ± 0.7 (t = 20.68, P < 0.001) before discharge and at final follow‐up, respectively. The average preoperative ODI score was 58.4 ± 13.0, then decreased to 28.3 ± 6.1 (t = 18.6, P < 0.001) and 8.0 ± 4.6 (t = 22.7, P < 0.001) before discharge and at final follow‐up, respectively. None of the patients developed postoperative ileus, vascular injury, nerve injury, and ureteral injury. One patient suffered incision‐related complication that healed by debridement and dressing change. One patient developed subsidence of autologous iliac bone before discharge and achieved complete bony fusion after staying in bed and fixing it with a brace at 3 months follow‐up. All patients achieved bony fusion at final follow‐up.

Conclusion

Mis‐OLIF without anterior or posterior instrumentation and iliac graft is an effective and viable approach for the treatment of conservatively ineffective lumbar spondylodiscitis without spinal deformity or epidural abscess.
Baseline and decline in device‐derived activity level predict risk of death and heart failure in patients with an ICD for primary prevention
Authors: Jamé Sina , Cascino Tom , Yeow Raymond , Ananwattanasuk Teetouch , Ghannam Michael , Coatney John , Shantha Ghanshyam , Chung Eugene H. , Saeed Mohammed , Cunnane Ryan , Crawford Thomas , Latchamsetty Rakesh , Ghanbari Hamid , Chugh Aman , Pelosi Frank , Bogun Frank , Oral Hakan , Jongnarangsin Krit
Published: June 2020

Background

Implanted defibrillators are capable of recording activity data based on company‐specific proprietary algorithms. This study aimed to determine the prognostic significance of baseline and decline in device‐derived activity level across different device companies in the real world.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients (n = 280) who underwent a defibrillator implantation (Boston, Medtronic, St. Jude, and Biotronik) for primary prevention at the University of Michigan from 2014 to 2016. Graphical data obtained from device interrogations were retrospectively converted to numerical data. The activity level averaged over a month from a week postimplantation was used as baseline. Subsequent weekly average activity levels (SALs) were standardized to this baseline. SAL below 59.4% was used as a threshold to group patients. All‐cause mortality and death/heart failure were the primary end‐points of this study.

Results

Fifty‐six patients died in this study. On average, they experienced a 50% decline in SAL prior to death. Patients (n = 129) who dropped their SAL below threshold were more likely to be older, male, diabetic, and have more symptomatic heart failure. They also had a significantly increased risk of heart failure/death (hazard ratio [HR] 3.6, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.3‐5.8, P < .0001) or death (HR 4.2, 95% CI 2.2‐7.7, P < .0001) compared to those who had sustained activity levels. Lower baseline activity level was also associated with significantly increased risk of heart failure/death and death.

Conclusion

Significant decline in device‐derived activity level and low baseline activity level are associated with increased mortality and heart failure in patients with an ICD for primary prevention.
Dietary factors during pregnancy and atopic outcomes in childhood: A systematic review from the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Authors: Venter Carina , Agostoni Carlo , Arshad S. Hasan , Ben‐Abdallah Miriam , Du Toit George , Fleischer David M. , Greenhawt Matthew , Glueck Deborah H. , Groetch Marion , Lunjani Nonhlanhla , Maslin Kate , Maiorella Alexander , Meyer Rosan , Antonella Muraro , Netting Merryn J. , Ibeabughichi Nwaru Bright , Palmer Debra J. , Palumbo Micheala P. , Roberts Graham , Roduit Caroline , Smith Pete , Untersmayr Eva , Vanderlinden Lauren A. , O’Mahony Liam
Published: June 2020

Rationale

Allergic diseases are an increasing public health concern, and early life environment is critical to immune development. Maternal diet during pregnancy has been linked to offspring allergy risk. In turn, maternal diet is a potentially modifiable factor, which could be targeted as an allergy prevention strategy. In this systematic review, we focused on non‐allergen‐specific modifying factors of the maternal diet in pregnancy on allergy outcomes in their offspring.

Methods

We undertook a systematic review of studies investigating the association between maternal diet during pregnancy and allergic outcomes (asthma/wheeze, hay fever/allergic rhinitis/seasonal allergies, eczema/atopic dermatitis (AD), food allergies, and allergic sensitization) in offspring. Studies evaluating the effect of food allergen intake were excluded. We searched three bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science) through February 26, 2019. Evidence was critically appraised using modified versions of the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool for intervention trials and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence methodological checklist for cohort and case‐control studies and meta‐analysis performed from RCTs.

Results

We identified 95 papers: 17 RCTs and 78 observational (case‐control, cross‐sectional, and cohort) studies. Observational studies varied in design and dietary intakes and often had contradictory findings. Based on our meta‐analysis, RCTs showed that vitamin D supplementation (OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.56‐0.92) is associated with a reduced risk of wheeze/asthma. A positive trend for omega‐3 fatty acids was observed for asthma/wheeze, but this did not reach statistical significance (OR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.45‐1.08). Omega‐3 supplementation was also associated with a non‐significant decreased risk of allergic rhinitis (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.56‐1.04). Neither vitamin D nor omega‐3 fatty acids were associated with an altered risk of AD or food allergy.

Conclusions

Prenatal supplementation with vitamin D may have beneficial effects for prevention of asthma. Additional nutritional factors seem to be required for modulating the risk of skin and gastrointestinal outcomes. We found no consistent evidence regarding other dietary factors, perhaps due to differences in study design and host features that were not considered. While confirmatory studies are required, there is also a need for performing RCTs beyond single nutrients/foods.
Vegetable dietary pattern may protect mild and persistent allergic rhinitis phenotype depending on genetic risk in school children
Authors: Oh Hea Young , Lee So‐Yeon , Yoon Jisun , Cho Hyun‐Ju , Kim Young‐Ho , Suh Dong In , Yang Song‐I , Kwon Ji‐Won , Jang Gwang Cheon , Sun Yong Han , Woo Sung‐Il , Youn You‐Sook , Park Kang Seo , Cho Hwa Jin , Kook Myung‐Hee , Yi Hye Ryoung , Chung Hai Lee , Kim Ja Hyeong , Kim Hyung Young , Jung Sungsu , Jung Jin‐A , Woo Hyang‐Ok , Koo Kyeong Ok , Kwon Sung‐Ok , Lee Jeom‐Kyu , Chang Woo‐Sung , Kim Eunseol , Lee Jeongrim , Kim Sangrok , Hong Soo‐Jong
Published: June 2020

Background

The effect of diet on allergic rhinitis (AR), its severity in children, and whether it modifies AR depending on genetic susceptibility are unknown. We investigated the association between dietary patterns and AR in school children and the influence of diet on AR according to a genetic risk score (GRS).

Methods

Totally, 435 7‐year‐old school children were recruited from the Panel Study on Korean Children. We used dietary patterns (vegetable, sugar, and meat) and dietary inflammatory index (DII) as dietary parameters. AR and its severity were defined by questionnaires about treatment in the previous 12 months and the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guideline, respectively. A GRS was calculated using 6 single nucleotide polymorphisms for allergic diseases.

Results

A vegetable diet containing a lot of anti‐inflammatory nutrients and higher vitamin D level in blood were negatively correlated, while DII was positively correlated with triglyceride level and triglyceride/HDL cholesterol. Vegetable diet (aOR, 95% CI = 0.73, 0.58‐0.94) and DII (1.13, 1.01‐1.28) were associated with AR risk. In particular, a high‐vegetable diet resulted in a lower risk of mild and persistent AR (aOR, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.10‐0.56) while a high DII represented a higher risk (2.33, 1.06‐5.10). The protective effect of vegetable diet on AR appeared only among children with a lower GRS (adjusted P = .018).

Conclusions

A vegetable dietary pattern characterized by high intake of anti‐inflammatory nutrients and higher vitamin D level in blood might be associated with a lower risk of mild and persistent AR. This beneficial effect is modified by a genetic factor.
Physical activity and its correlates in a pediatric solid‐organ transplant population
Authors: Lui Samantha , de Souza Astrid , Sharma Atul , Fairbairn Julie , Schreiber Richard , Armstrong Kathryn , Blydt‐Hansen Tom
Published: June 2020

PA has been shown to have benefits in SOT patients. Studies assessing physical activity levels and its correlates in a pediatric solid‐organ transplant population are limited. The aim of this study was to assess PA levels and identify baseline and contemporaneous factors that contribute to PA in a pediatric SOT population. A retrospective cross‐sectional review was performed on 58 pediatric transplant patients (16 heart, 29 kidney, and 13 liver transplant). PA was measured by PAQ‐C or PAQ‐A. Demographics, baseline, and contemporaneous factors were collected. There were no significant differences in baseline and contemporaneous characteristics between heart, kidney, and liver transplant recipients. SOT recipients were 15.2 [12.3‐17.3] years old at time of completing the PAQ. Median PAQ score was 2.2 [1.7‐2.9]. There were no significant differences in PAQ scores between organ transplant type or between genders. Lower PAQ score was associated with sensory disability (9 vs 49 without disability; P = <.01) and age at time of completing the PAQ (r = −.50, P = <.01). These results suggest that older age at time of completing the PAQ and presence of sensory disability may influence PA levels in the pediatric SOT population.
Coinfection of soybean plants with Phytophthora sojae and soybean cyst nematode does not alter the efficacy of resistance genes
Authors: Audette Carolane , Bélanger Richard R. , Mimee Benjamin
Published: June 2020

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN) Heterodera glycines and the oomycete Phytophthora sojae are among the most damaging pathogens of soybean worldwide. Resistant cultivars are commonly used to manage these diseases. As it is known that the presence of SCN can facilitate the development of other pathogens, it is important to verify if there is a synergistic activity between SCN and P. sojae. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a possible interaction on susceptible and resistant soybean lines. The plants were inoculated with one or both organisms at different stages (5 or 10 days old). Two levels of SCN inoculum (2,000 and 10,000 eggs/plant) and different timing between SCN and P. sojae inoculation (2, 5, or 8 days) were compared. The results on 5‐day‐old plants showed that SCN did not influence P. sojae development. The resistant cultivar to P. sojae remained effective (0% mortality) and susceptible cultivars exhibited high mortality (100%) in the presence or absence of SCN. Experiments on 10‐day‐old plants showed that SCN resistance was not affected by the presence of P. sojae. SCN inoculum density and timing of P. sojae infection did not affect the virulence of these pathogens and the efficacy of resistance genes. However, the number of SCN cysts was decreased by more than 50% (p < .001) when P. sojae was coinfesting the susceptible cultivar. This suggests that P. sojae might indirectly influence SCN development by reducing the root mass. This study confirmed that resistant cultivars remain a valid option for the management of P. sojae and SCN.
Understanding the Relationship Between Direct Experience and Risk Perception of Natural Hazards
Authors: Bronfman Nicolás C. , Cisternas Pamela C. , Repetto Paula B. , Castañeda Javiera V. , Guic Eliana
Published: June 2020

Risk perception has been largely examined in studies that have aimed to explain and predict preparedness behavior in the context of natural hazards. Findings from studies on the relationship between previous experience, preparedness, and risk perception in disaster situations have been inconsistent. Hence, the main goal of this work was to explore the influence of physical and emotional experience on risk perception regarding natural hazards. This study was conducted in a statistically representative sample of the city of Iquique, in northern Chile (n = 701), who completed a survey one month after the occurrence of an earthquake and tsunami (8.2 Mw). The survey assessed the experience and preparation actions of survivors in relation to this event.

Using a structural equation model, we examined nine proposed relationships, six of which were significant. The final model had an adequate fit (χ² = 752.23, df = 283, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.90, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.049). Direct experience showed the greatest influence on risk perception: while direct physical experience (i.e., the physical and material consequences associated with the earthquake) maintained a direct positive effect on risk perception, direct emotional experience (i.e., the fear of experiencing an earthquake) produced an indirect positive effect (through worry). Emotional experience, however, did not directly influence current preparedness and risk perception. Implications for understanding the relationship between risk perception and direct experience are discussed.
Nutrient consumption in India: Evidence from a village study
Authors: Dutta Indranil , Kapoor Shruti , Pattanaik Prasanta K.
Published: June 2020

Adequate nutrition is generally regarded as a core dimension in any evaluation of well‐being. In the context of India, a country with a high prevalence of poor nutrition, there is a dearth of nutrition studies with adequate coverage and comparability. Using primary data on food consumption from a village in a poorer state of India, we study the consumption of five key nutrients, namely, calories, protein, carbohydrates, calcium and iron. Among the various determinants of nutrition, we find that expenditure has a significant impact on nutrition and the expenditure elasticity of nutrition is comparatively high for all the key nutrients. By correcting for potential endogeneity, we demonstrate a causal link from expenditure and food subsidy provided by the public distribution system to nutritional intake. There is some evidence that household characteristics such as household size and gender of the household head matter for nutrition; however, they are not robust under various specifications.