bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene flow as a simple cause for an excess of high‐frequency‐derived alleles
Authors: Marchi Nina , Excoffier Laurent
Published: May 2020

Most human populations exhibit an excess of high‐frequency variants, leading to a U‐shaped site‐frequency spectrum (uSFS). This pattern has been generally interpreted as a signature of ongoing episodes of positive selection, or as evidence for a mis‐assignment of ancestral/derived allelic states, but uSFS has also been observed in populations receiving gene flow from a ghost population, in structured populations, or after range expansions. In order to better explain the prevalence of high‐frequency variants in humans and other populations, we describe here which patterns of gene flow and population demography can lead to uSFS by using extensive coalescent simulations. We find that uSFS can often be observed in a population if gene flow brings a few ancestral alleles from a well‐differentiated population. Gene flow can either consist in single pulses of admixture or continuous immigration, but different demographic conditions are necessary to observe uSFS in these two scenarios. Indeed, an extremely low and recent gene flow is required in the case of single admixture events, while with continuous immigration, uSFS occurs only if gene flow started recently at a high rate or if it lasted for a long time at a low rate. Overall, we find that a neutral uSFS occurs under more restrictive conditions in populations having received single pulses of gene flow than in populations exposed to continuous gene flow. We also show that the uSFS observed in human populations from the 1000 Genomes Project can easily be explained by gene flow from surrounding populations without requiring past episodes of positive selection. These results imply that uSFS should be common in non‐isolated populations, such as most wild or domesticated plants and animals.
Biomarkers in melanoma and non‐melanoma skin cancer prevention and risk stratification
Authors: Trager Megan H. , Geskin Larisa J. , Samie Faramarz H. , Liu Liang
Published: May 2020

The rates of melanoma and non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) have been increasing over the last twenty years in the United States, and this has been attributed to increased ultraviolet radiation exposure (UVR). Given these rising rates, preventative measures have become increasingly important to reduce the incidence and promote early detection of these cancers. Skin cancer prevention remains a challenging task to accomplish mainly due to the lack of reliable and sensitive methods to provide objective risk information that can educate and motivate individuals to avoid sunburn. Currently, minimal erythema dose (MED) is used as a marker of UVR. However, it is not an ideal marker because significant cancer‐related molecular damage can occur after UVR exposure that cannot be detected by MED. Thus, over the recent years there has been significant interest in development of biomarkers indicative of exposure to UVR to improve early detection of cutaneous malignancies. Here, we will discuss emerging biomarkers for melanoma and NMSC that can help with risk stratification and targeted prevention and treatment.
Novel potential of metformin on valproic acid‐induced autism spectrum disorder in rats: involvement of antioxidant defence system
Authors: Ishola Ismail O. , Balogun Aishat O. , Adeyemi Olufunmilayo O.
Published: May 2020

Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been shown to increase the risk of autism in children. This study examined the effect of metformin on VPA‐induced autism spectrum disorders in rats. Pregnant albino rats administered VPA (500 mg/kg, i.p.) or normal saline (10 mL/kg, i.p.; vehicle‐control) on gestational day 12.5. The pups were given metformin (5, 50 or 500 mg/kg, p.o.) or vehicle (10 mL/kg, p.o.) daily from postnatal day (PND) 21–50. Social behaviour, spatial learning/reference memory, repetitive behaviour and anxiety were assessed using the three‐chamber social assay, Morris water maze (MWM), Y maze and elevated plus maze tests (EPM), respectively. On PND 51, the animals were euthanized and brains removed for biochemical assay. In utero VPA exposure caused significant reduction in sociability index, social novelty preference index in three‐chambered apparatus and spatial learning and reference memory deficits in the MWM task as well as increase in repetitive/anxiety‐like behaviour in Y maze and EPM tests, respectively, which were ameliorated by post‐treatment with metformin in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, prenatal VPA increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite levels as well as deficits in antioxidant enzymes activities in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) which were attenuated by metformin administration. Similarly, VPA‐induced increase in acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus and PFC were attenuated by postnatal treatment with metformin. Findings from this study showed that postnatal administration of metformin prevented valproic acid‐induced autistic‐like behaviour. Hence, metformin could be a potential adjunct in the management of autism spectrum disorders.
Structural insight into tanapoxvirus‐mediated inhibition of apoptosis
Authors: Suraweera Chathura D. , Anasir Mohd Ishtiaq , Chugh Srishti , Javorsky Airah , Impey Rachael E. , Hasan Zadeh Mohammad , Soares da Costa Tatiana P. , Hinds Mark G. , Kvansakul Marc
Published: May 2020

Premature programmed cell death or apoptosis of cells is a strategy utilized by multicellular organisms to counter microbial threats. Tanapoxvirus (TANV) is a large double‐stranded DNA virus belonging to the poxviridae that causes mild monkeypox‐like infections in humans and primates. TANV encodes for a putative apoptosis inhibitory protein 16L. We show that TANV16L is able to bind to a range of peptides spanning the BH3 motif of human proapoptotic Bcl‐2 proteins and is able to counter growth arrest of yeast induced by human Bak and Bax. We then determined the crystal structures of TANV16L bound to three identified interactors, Bax, Bim and Puma BH3. TANV16L adopts a globular Bcl‐2 fold comprising 7 α‐helices and utilizes the canonical Bcl‐2 binding groove to engage proapoptotic host cell Bcl‐2 proteins. Unexpectedly, TANV16L is able to adopt both a monomeric and a domain‐swapped dimeric topology where the α1 helix from one protomer is swapped into a neighbouring unit. Despite adopting two different oligomeric forms, the canonical ligand binding groove in TANV16L remains unchanged from monomer to domain‐swapped dimer. Our results provide a structural and mechanistic basis for tanapoxvirus‐mediated inhibition of host cell apoptosis and reveal the capacity of Bcl‐2 proteins to adopt differential oligomeric states whilst maintaining the canonical ligand binding groove in an unchanged state.

Database

Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) under the accession numbers 6TPQ, 6TQQ and 6TRR.
Fatigue of vulcanized natural rubber under proportional and non‐proportional loading
Authors: Wang Yanping , Liu Jianjun , Duan Wuwei , Pan Zheng , Qiao Yu
Published: May 2020

Two natural rubber (NR) compounds of hardness shore A 60 and 70 with 10 different biaxial displacement/twist paths were investigated using an axisymmetric cylindrical hollow dumbbell specimen. The effects of the proportional and non‐proportional loading modes on the fatigue life are discussed. In total, 52 fatigue test results are reported with fatigue life results of 3,918 to 488,000 cycles. The effect of the channel phase on the fatigue life is discussed.
Further Evaluation of Penglai Zircon Megacrysts as a Reference Material for (U‐Th)/He Dating
Authors: Yu Shun , Sun Jingbo , Evans Noreen J. , Danišík Martin , Wu Lin , Tian Yuntao , Shen Ze
Published: May 2020

The α‐ejection‐corrected (U‐Th)/He dates of the widely used reference materials (e.g., Fish Canyon Tuff zircon) can be inaccurate for several reasons (e.g., inclusions, U‐Th zonation). There is a need for large, widely available, compositionally homogeneous mineral reference materials with accurately and precisely known ages. In this work, four individual Penglai zircon megacrysts are evaluated via interlaboratory (U‐Th)/He dating comparison, trace element analysis, U‐Pb dating and a range of characterisation methods. The (U‐Th)/He ages and 206Pb/238U ages are variable between Penglai megacrysts – 4.12 ± 0.10 Ma (1s) and 4.29 ± 0.05 Ma (1s) (PL1), 3.07 ± 0.25 Ma (1s) and 3.95 ± 0.05 Ma (1s) (PL2), 3.04 ± 0.24 Ma (1s) and 3.06 ± 0.07 Ma (1s) (PL4), and 4.49 ± 0.07 Ma (1s) (PL5; (U‐Th)/He age only), respectively. A single, cm‐sized megacryst (PL1) qualifies as a new (U‐Th)/He dating reference material, as it is structurally and chemically homogeneous, and yielded a highly reproducible and statistically indistinguishable (U‐Th)/He age of 4.12 ± 0.10 Ma from repeated analysis in multiple laboratories (slightly younger than the 206Pb/238U age of 4.29 ± 0.05 Ma). These results confirm Penglai zircon as a suitable reference material for (U‐Th)/He dating, on the proviso that some care needs to be taken to characterise individual megacrysts for trace element zonation, and to verify (U‐Th)/He (and U‐Pb ages, if double dating) prior to routine use. The 206Pb/238U ages and (U‐Th)/He ages obtained in this work provide constraints on the timing of Penglai megacryst crystallisation and eruption, and confirm at least two eruptive episodes during the Neogene in the Leiqiong area.
Age, sexuality and hegemonic masculinity: Exploring older gay men’s masculinity practices at work
Authors: Ozturk Mustafa Bilgehan , Rumens Nick , Tatli Ahu
Published: May 2020

This article examines how older gay men practice masculinity in heteronormative organizational settings. Our analysis of in‐depth interview data yields two key masculinity practices: maintaining heteronormativity and embodying change. Older gay men’s masculinity practices that conform to the ideals of hegemonic masculinity have the effect of maintaining heteronormativity. Embodying change refers to older gay men’s masculinity practices that leverage accumulated life experiences to negotiate heteronormativity for change, although such agency is constrained by individuals’ material and symbolic commitments to heteronormativity. By delineating these two clusters of practices and exploring the dynamic relationality between individual action and organizational order from a practice‐based perspective, we extend the conceptual scope of hegemonic masculinity. Furthermore, by investigating how older gay men navigate ageing and sexuality in organizations, we show the constraining and enabling effects of ageing as a social and embodied process on gay men’s masculinity practices.
Headaches During COVID‐19: My Clinical Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Belvis Robert
Published: May 2020

Objective

To analyze headaches related to COVID‐19 based on personal case experience.

Background

COVID‐19 is an infection caused by the new coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2. The first reported case happened in Wuhan on December 1, 2019. At present, at least 1.8 million people are infected around the world and almost 110,000 people have died. Many studies have analyzed the clinical picture of COVID‐19, but they are focused on respiratory symptoms and headache is generically treated.

Methods

I describe and discuss my headaches during my COVID‐19 and I review the MEDLINE literature about headaches and COVID‐19.

Results

More than 41,000 COVID‐19 patients have been included in clinical studies and headache was present in 8%‐12% of them. However, no headache characterization was made in these studies. As a headache expert and based on my own personal clinical case, headaches related to COVID‐19 can be classified in the 2 phases of the disease. Acute headache attributed to systemic viral infection, primary cough headache, tension‐type headache and headache attributed to heterophoria can appear in the first phase (the influenza‐like phase); and headache attributed to hypoxia and a new headache, difficult to fit into the ICHD3, can appear if the second phase (the cytokine storm phase) occurs.

Conclusions

Several headaches can appear during COVID‐19 infection. All of them are headaches specified in the ICHD3, except 1 that occurs from the 7th day after the clinical onset. This headache is probably related to the cytokine storm that some patients suffer and it could be framed under the ICHD3 headache of Headache attributed to other non‐infectious inflammatory intracranial disease. Although the reported prevalence of headaches as a symptom of COVID‐19 infection is low, this experience shows that, very probably, it is underestimated.
Loss of switch/sucrose non‐fermenting complex protein expression in undifferentiated gastrointestinal and pancreatic carcinomas
Authors: Tessier‐Cloutier Basile , Schaeffer David F , Bacani Julinor , Marginean Celia E , Kalloger Steve , Köbel Martin , Lee Cheng‐Han
Published: May 2020

Aims

Undifferentiated carcinoma refers to an epithelial malignancy that lacks morphological evidence of differentiation. Recent studies have implicated the loss of constitutively expressed switch/sucrose non‐fermenting (SWI/SNF) complex subunits in undifferentiated carcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract and other sites. In this study we examine the expression of SWI/SNF and mismatch repair (MMR) proteins in a series of undifferentiated carcinomas from the gastrointestinal tract and the pancreas.

Methods and results

We searched pathology databases from four Canadian health centres for primary undifferentiated carcinoma from gastrointestinal and pancreatic resection specimens. Upon review of 31 cases, 19 were confirmed to be undifferentiated carcinomas (eight colonic, six gastric, three pancreatic, one appendiceal and one duodenal). Immunohistochemical analysis of SMARCA4, SMARCA2, SMARCB1, ARID1A, ARID1B, MSH2, MSH6, MLH1 and PMS2 was performed on whole sections. Five of 19 (26%) showed loss of core SWI/SNF proteins (two loss of SMARCA4, one loss of SMARCB1 and two concurrent loss of ARID1A and ARID1B). SMARCA4, SMARCB1, or ARID1A/ARID1B‐deficient undifferentiated carcinoma consistently exhibited sheet‐like growth pattern, with cellular discohesion and rhabdoid morphology. Nine of 17 undifferentiated carcinomas tested were MMR‐deficient by immunohistochemistry. In comparison, none of the 12 poorly differentiated carcinomas that were originally diagnosed as undifferentiated carcinomas showed loss of SMARCA4, SMARCA2, SMARCB1 or ARID1B.

Conclusions

Undifferentiated gastrointestinal/pancreatic carcinomas show frequent loss of expression of SWI/SNF complex proteins. The loss of these core components of SWI/SNF complex may contribute to the arrest of cellular differentiation, resulting in the undifferentiated histology and aggressive clinical behaviour.
Geochemical characteristics and Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotope compositions of Late Triassic post‐collisional A‐type granites in Sarudik, SW Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Zhang Haikun , Hu Peng , Cao Liang , Tampubolon Armin , Liu Asui , Cheng Xiang , Zhan Mingguo , Pan Luozhong , Dai Yu , Pan Beihong
Published: May 2020

Late Triassic A‐type granites are identified in this study in Sarudik, SW Sumatra. We present new data on zircon U–Pb geochronology, whole‐rock major and trace elements and Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotope geochemistry, aiming to study their petrogenesis and tectonic implications. LA‐ICP‐MS U–Pb dating of zircon separated from one biotite monzogranite sample yields a concordia age of 222.6 ±1.0 Ma, indicating a Late Triassic magmatic event. The studied granites are classified as weakly peralumious, high‐K calc‐alkaline granites. They exhibit high SiO2, K2O + Na2O, FeO/(FeO + MgO) and Ga/Al ratios and low Al2O3, CaO, MgO, P2O5 and TiO2 contents, with enrichment of Rb, Th and U and depletion of Ba, Sr, P and Eu, showing the features of A‐type granites. The granites have zircon εHf(t) values from −4.6 to −0.4 and whole‐rock εNd(t) values from −5.51 to −4.98, with Mesoproterozoic TDM2 ages (1278–1544 Ma) for both Hf and Nd isotopes. Geochemical and isotopic data suggest that the source of these A‐type granites is the Mesoproterozoic continental crust, without significant incorporation of mantle‐derived component, and their formation is controlled by subsequent fractional crystallization. The Sarudik A‐type granites are further assigned to A2‐type formed in post‐collisional environment. Combined with previous knowledge on the western SE Asia tectonic evolution, we conclude that the formation of the Late Triassic A‐type granites is related to the post‐collisional extension induced by the crustal thickening, gravitational collapse, and asthenosphere upwelling following the collision between the Sibumasu and the East Malaya Block.
YouTube™ quality as a source for parent education about the oral hygiene of children
Authors: Duman Canan
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Early childhood caries is the most common chronic disease of children and a worldwide health problem due to its high prevalence. Maintaining oral hygiene is the first step towards prevention, with parental education being a key factor influencing oral health. The increasing popularity of the Internet as an information source has led to the need to evaluate the reliability and quality of existing information. The aim of the present study was to review YouTube videos on oral hygiene procedures for children and to assess them in terms of their usefulness as a means of educating parents.

Methods

A search of YouTube was performed using the keywords “child tooth brushing.” Video lengths, dates of upload, numbers of total views, likes, dislikes and comments were collected. Viewing rates and interaction rates were then calculated. Two dentists independently evaluated the included videos’ usefulness in terms of their content.

Results

The majority of the 90 included videos (68.8%) were uploaded by health‐related professionals or websites. Many of the videos were found to be moderately useful (45.6%), with a smaller percentage found to be slightly useful (31.1%). The percentage of very useful videos was 17.8%. Parental supervision during brushing was highlighted in most of the videos (77.7%), while the importance of parents’ brushing for modelling (15.5%) was mentioned the least.

Conclusions

YouTube videos can be used as a useful source for parental education. However, there is a need to improve the quality of the education provided by public health and oral health professionals.
Chemical composition and bioactivity potential of the new Endosequence BC Sealer formulation HiFlow
Authors: Rodríguez‐Lozano F. J. , López‐García S. , García‐Bernal D. , Tomás‐Catalá C. J. , Santos J. M. , Llena C. , Lozano A. , Murcia L. , Forner L.
Published: May 2020

Aim

To evaluate in a laboratory setting the effects of Endosequence BC Sealer HiFlow (Brasseler USA, Savannah, GA, USA), a novel calcium silicate‐based sealer developed for use in warm canal filling techniques, on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

Methodology

Eluates of EndoSequence BC Sealer HiFlow (BCHiF) (Brasseler USA), EndoSequence BC Sealer (BCS) (Brasseler USA) and AH Plus (AHP) (Dentsply DeTrey GmbH, Konstanz, Germany) were placed in contact with hPDLSCs. The characterization of the chemical elements of the root canal sealers was assessed using scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis (SEM‐EDX). Inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) was used to determine the ion release of the sealers. MTT assay and wound healing techniques were used to determine cell viability and migration, respectively. Cell morphology and cell attachment were assessed using a direct contact technique of hPDLSCs onto the surface of the sealers and analysed by SEM. The bioactivity potential was carried out with the Alizarin Red and qPCR testing methods. The statistical differences were evaluated using one‐way anova and Tukey’s test (P < 0.05).

Results

ICP‐MS and EDX revealed significantly more zirconium in BCHiF than BCS (P < 0.05), whereas BCS had slightly higher levels of Ca2+ than BCHiF (P < 0.05). The cell viability assay revealed no relevant differences between BCS and BCHiF when compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Both BCS and BCHiF had similar rates of cell migration to the control group at 24 and 48 h. Cell morphology and adhesion capacity were also similar for BCS and BCHiF groups, whilst the AHP group was associated with reduced adhesion capacity. The Alizarin Red assay revealed a significant difference between the BCS and the control group (P < 0.001), as well as for the BCHiF group (P < 0.001). Finally, BCS and BCHiF promoted overexpression of osteo/cementogenic genes.

Conclusions

In general, EndoSequence BC Sealer HiFlow possesses suitable biological properties to be safely used as a root canal filling material and promote increased expression of oste/cementogenic genes by hPDLSCs.
Preparation of Al2O3‐mullite thermal insulation materials with AlF3 and SiC as aids by microwave sintering
Authors: Fan Shuheng , Zheng Han , Gao Qiancheng , Li Yang , Chen Yongqiang , Liu Guoqi , Fan Bingbing , Zhang Rui
Published: May 2020

Al2O3‐mullite composites were prepared under the synergy effect of AlF3 and SiC aids by microwave heating. The phase composition, microstructure, porosity, flexural strength, thermal shock resistance, and thermal conductivity were investigated. The XRD results revealed that the content of mullite phase steadily increased with the increasing of AlF3 content. The microstructure showed that the lower content (≤1 wt%) of AlF3 led to the formation of granular mullite and the higher content (≥3 wt%) of AlF3 led to the formation of mullite whiskers, which could form an interlocking structure. In addition, the SiC hot spots can also promote the generation of mullite whiskers by microwave sintering. The thermal shock resistance was significantly improved by the interlocking structure of mullite whiskers. The residual rate of flexural strength of the composite with 3 wt% AlF3 was 86%. The composite with 3 wt% AlF3 additives got its optimized thermal conductivity from 30°C to 950°C, the value was between 0.819 and 1.021 W/(mK), which possess excellent thermal insulation performance.
Australian and New Zealand consensus statement on the management of lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and myeloma during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Di Ciaccio Pietro , McCaughan Georgia , Trotman Judith , Ho Phoebe Joy , Cheah Chan Y. , Gangatharan Shane , Wight Joel , Ku Matthew , Quach Hang , Gasiorowski Robin , Polizzotto Mark N. , Prince Henry Miles , Mulligan Stephen , Tam Constantine S. , Gregory Gareth , Hapgood Greg , Spencer Andrew , Dickinson Michael , Latimer Maya , Johnston Anna , Armytage Tasman , Lee Cindy , Cochrane Tara , Berkhahn Leanne , Weinkove Robert , Doocey Richard , Harrison Simon J. , Webber Nicholas , Lee Hui‐Peng , Chapman Scott , Campbell Belinda A. , Gibbs Simon D. J. , Hamad Nada
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic poses a unique challenge to the care of patients with haematological malignancies. Viral pneumonia is known to cause disproportionately severe disease in patients with cancer, and patients with lymphoma, myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia are likely to be at particular risk of severe disease related to COVID‐19. This statement has been developed by consensus among authors from Australia and New Zealand. We aim to provide supportive guidance to clinicians making individual patient decisions during the COVID‐19 pandemic, in particular during periods that access to healthcare resources may be limited. General recommendations include those to minimise patient exposure to COVID‐19, including the use of telehealth, avoidance of non‐essential visits and minimisation of time spent by patients in infusion suites and other clinical areas. This statement also provides recommendations where appropriate in assessing indications for therapy, reducing therapy‐associated immunosuppression and reducing healthcare utilisation in patients with specific haematological malignancies during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Specific decisions regarding therapy of haematological malignancies will need to be individualised, based on disease risk, risks of immunosuppression, rates of community transmission of COVID‐19 and available local healthcare resources.
Oral health literacy, sociodemographic, family, and clinical predictors of dental visits among Brazilian early adolescents
Authors: Neves Érick Tássio Barbosa , Lima Larissa Chaves Morais de , Dutra Laio da Costa , Gomes Monalisa Cesarino , Siqueira Maria Betânia Lins Dantas , Paiva Saul Martins , Ferreira Fernanda Morais , Granville‐Garcia Ana Flávia
Published: May 2020

Background

The prevalence of dental caries is high in adolescents worldwide, and a large percentage have never been to a dentist or have not had regular dental appointments.

Aim

To evaluate the influence of oral health literacy and sociodemographic, clinical, and family factors on dental visits among early adolescents.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 740 12‐year‐old students in Campina Grande, Brazil. Students answered about their level of oral health literacy (BREALD‐30), levels of family adaptability and cohesion (FACES III), and visits to the dentist sometime in life. Dental caries experience was evaluated using Nyvad criteria. Robust Poisson regression for complex samples was performed.

Results

A higher level of oral health literacy (PR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.03), high social class (PR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.09‐1.50), higher mother's schooling (PR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.37‐1.83), family cohesion classified as enmeshed (PR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.19‐2.02) and connected (PR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.02‐1.44), and the absence of toothache (PR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.38) remained associated with having visited a dentist.

Conclusions

Oral health literacy and sociodemographic, family, and clinical factors were predictors of having visited a dentist among early adolescents.
Parents’ satisfaction with paediatric dental treatment under sedation: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rodrigues Vinícius Braudes Martins , Costa Luciane Rezende , Corrêa de Faria Patrícia
Published: May 2020

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes are under‐investigated in the field of paediatric dental sedation.

Aim

To evaluate the satisfaction of parents/guardians with their children's dental sedation, compare it to the dentist's satisfaction, and identify associated factors.

Design

This study was performed with parents/guardians of young children treated under sedation and dentists. Participants’ satisfaction was measured using the visual analogue scale (0‐100). Child's behaviour was classified using the Ohio State Behavioural Rating Scale. Other information was collected during interviews and from patient charts. The Spearman's, Mann‐Whitney and Kruskal‐Wallis tests were performed (P < .05).

Results

A total of 167 parents/guardians and ten dentists participated in the study. Protective stabilisation and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) were used in 69.9% and 51.5% appointments, respectively. The parents/guardians (median: 91 [25‐75 percentile: 75‐96]) and dentists (76 [23‐98]) were satisfied. Parental/guardian satisfaction was higher than dentist satisfaction (P ≤ .001). Parental/guardian satisfaction was positively correlated with quiet child behaviour (r = 0.347, P ≤ .001) and was associated with the non‐use of protective stabilisation (P ≤ .001), no previous toothache (P = .019), and the use of ART (P = .018).

Conclusion

The participants were satisfied with treatment under sedation. Parents/guardians were more satisfied, especially, when the child had cooperative behaviour.
Active surveillance documents rates of clinical care seeking due to respiratory illness
Authors: Galanti Marta , Comito Devon , Ligon Chanel , Lane Benjamin , Matienzo Nelsa , Ibrahim Sadiat , Shittu Atinuke , Tagne Eudosie , Birger Ruthie , Ud‐Dean Minhaz , Filip Ioan , Morita Haruka , Rabadan Raul , Anthony Simon , Freyer Greg A. , Dayan Peter , Shopsin Bo , Shaman Jeffrey
Published: May 2020

Background

Respiratory viral infections are a leading cause of disease worldwide. However, the overall community prevalence of infections has not been properly assessed, as standard surveillance is typically acquired passively among individuals seeking clinical care.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in which participants provided daily diaries and weekly nasopharyngeal specimens that were tested for respiratory viruses. These data were used to analyze healthcare seeking behavior, compared with cross‐sectional ED data and NYC surveillance reports, and used to evaluate biases of medically attended ILI as signal for population respiratory disease and infection.

Results

The likelihood of seeking medical attention was virus‐dependent: higher for influenza and metapneumovirus (19%‐20%), lower for coronavirus and RSV (4%), and 71% of individuals with self‐reported ILI did not seek care and half of medically attended symptomatic manifestations did not meet the criteria for ILI. Only 5% of cohort respiratory virus infections and 21% of influenza infections were medically attended and classifiable as ILI. We estimated 1 ILI event per person/year but multiple respiratory infections per year.

Conclusion

Standard, healthcare‐based respiratory surveillance has multiple limitations. Specifically, ILI is an incomplete metric for quantifying respiratory disease, viral respiratory infection, and influenza infection. The prevalence of respiratory viruses, as reported by standard, healthcare‐based surveillance, is skewed toward viruses producing more severe symptoms. Active, longitudinal studies are a helpful supplement to standard surveillance, can improve understanding of the overall circulation and burden of respiratory viruses, and can aid development of more robust measures for controlling the spread of these pathogens.
Defect structure evolution and electrical properties of BaTiO3‐based ferroelectric ceramics
Authors: Lv Jiahao , Hao Hua , Jiang Xuewen , Liu Zhen , Emmanuel Marwa , Cao Minghe , Yao Zhonghua , Liu Hanxing
Published: May 2020

Relaxor perovskite ferroelectric 0.1Bi(Zn1/2Zr1/2)O3‐0.9BaTiO3(0.1BZZ‐0.9BT) ceramics were successfully prepared, whose powders synthesized by the sol‐gel process, with average grain size about 1.29 μm. 1.75 J/cm3 discharge energy density and good dielectric stability were obtained over a wide temperature range from 25°C to 140°C. The pulse discharge capability of 0.1BZZ‐0.9BT ceramics was tested under different electric fields. The discharge time was 2.13 μs, which proved its ability to charge and discharge quickly. Complex impedance analysis and thermally stimulated depolarization current tests were applied to investigate the defect types and activation of 0.1BZZ‐0.9BT ceramics. The evolution process of composite defects and oxygen vacancies profoundly affects the dielectric temperature stability of 0.1BZZ‐0.9BT ceramics’ energy storage property.
Oceanographic heterogeneity influences an ecological radiation in elasmobranchs
Authors: Sandoval‐Castillo Jonathan , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: May 2020

Aim

During ecological speciation, reproductive isolation is predicted to evolve between populations adapted to different biotic or abiotic environments despite the absence of geographical isolation. Regions of oceanographic heterogeneity (e.g. current interfaces, habitat transition zones, ecological gradients) are strong candidates for the presence of ecologically divergent natural selection, but their role in the radiation of elasmobranch species is yet to be tested. We used an integrative framework to assess the relative influence of oceanographic heterogeneity and geological history on the diversification of an elasmobranch genus.

Location

Gulf of California (GC) and Baja California Peninsula (BCP), Mexico.

Taxon

Shovelnose guitarfish (genus Pseudobatos).

Methods

We sampled 210 Pseudobatos specimens from four distinct but physically connected oceanographic regions within the GC and in the BCP. We used genetic (mtDNA sequences and AFLP genotypes) and environmental (six oceanographic variables) datasets to clarify phylogenetic relationships, demographic history and evolutionary divergence among populations, and to test for associations between ecologically driven selection and reproductive isolation.

Results

Phylogenetic and population genetic evidence exposed five distinct lineages of Pseudobatos in the region, including four cryptic lineages in the GC. Phylogeographic analyses indicate a recent history of ecologically driven diversification associated with the Gulf's young oceanographic environment and its four ecologically discrete regions. This hypothesis was supported by seascape genetics, ecological niche modelling and by tests of selection.

Main conclusions

We propose an adaptive radiation for the genus Pseudobatos linked with habitat heterogeneity of the GC. Our study likely represents the first assessment of an ecological radiation in the highly diverse elasmobranch group. It capitalizes on the environmental and biogeographic settings of the GC to offer a new perspective about the application of integrative approaches to study divergent natural selection and diversification in the sea.
Latitudinal decline in stand biomass and productivity at the elevational treeline in the Ural mountains despite a common thermal growth limit
Authors: Hagedorn Frank , Dawes Melissa A. , Bubnov Maxim O. , Devi Nadezhda M. , Grigoriev Andrey A. , Mazepa Valeriy S. , Nagimov Zufar Y. , Shiyatov Stepan G. , Moiseev Pavel A.
Published: May 2020

Aim

To quantify tree biomass and stand productivity of treeline ecotones and identify driving factors.

Location

treeline ecotones of seven regions from the South to Polar Urals, spanning a latitudinal gradient of 1,500 km.

Taxa

Picea obovata, Betula pubescens, Larix sibirica.

Methods

Stand biomass and productivity were estimated across 18 elevational transects from the tree species line to the closed forest line based on allometric measurements of 326 trees (including roots for 53 trees), stand structure assessments and demographic patterns of 20,600 trees. Stand growth data were linked to (a) temperatures monitored in situ for five years in the South and Polar Urals, (b) climate variables extrapolated from nearby climate stations and (c) measures of nutrient availability in soils and tree foliage.

Results

treeline position along the latitudinal gradient occurred at a similar mean growing season temperature. Despite the common cold limitation of tree distribution along the Ural mountain range, stand biomass and productivity within the treeline ecotone decreased by a factor of three and five from the South to the Polar Urals, mainly due to a declining stand density. Among climatic variables, growing season length decreased by 20% and winter temperatures declined by 4°C towards the Polar Urals, whereas growing degree days > 5°C remained similar, averaging 554 ± 9°C. Soil development was poorer in the Polar than in the South Urals, and plant‐available N and P in the soil were 20 and 30 times lower, respectively, probably due to lower winter temperatures.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that once the thermal limitation for tree growth is relieved, soil fertility—restricted by permafrost and low soil temperatures during winter—plays a key and yet underexplored role for stand productivity in treeline ecotones. The observed latitudinal decline in stand productivity is important for above‐ and belowground diversity and functioning.
Outlier detection methods are still effective even using virtual species created with the probabilistic approach
Authors: Liu Canran , White Matt , Newell Graeme
Published: May 2020

Liu et al. (Journal of Biogeography, 2018, 45:164–176) presented an approach to detect outliers in species distribution data by developing virtual species created using the threshold approach. Meynard et al. (Journal of biogeography, 2019, 46:2141–2144) raised concerns about this approach stating that ‘using a probabilistic approach … may significantly change results’. Here we provide a new series of simulations using the two approaches and demonstrate that the outlier detection approach based on pseudo species distribution models was still effective when using the probabilistic approach, although the detection rate was lower than when using the threshold approach.
Magnetic resonance imaging–guided cryoballoon ablation for left atrial substrate modification in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kirstein Bettina , Morris Alan , Baher Alex , Csécs Ibolya , Kheirkhahan Mobin , Kaur Gagandeep , Kholmovski Eugene , Marrouche Nassir F.
Published: May 2020

Background

Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established modality for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). We report feasibility of left atrial (LA) substrate modification in addition to PVI both using the cryoballoon.

Methods

LA substrates and CBA‐induced scar were assessed at baseline and 3 months after ablation using late gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (LGE‐MRI). Common periprocedural data including postablation LGE‐MRI for evaluation of esophageal thermal injury, and CBA‐associated complications were collected. Freedom from AF recurrence at 12 months was assessed using Holter and 30‐day rhythm monitors.

Results

In 26 patients (64 ± 11 years, 69% male; 27% persistent AF, CHADSVASC score: 2.3 ± 1.5; left ventricular ejection fraction: 56 ± 10%, oral anticoagulation with warfarin/direct oral anticoagulants: n = 11/15), referred for first‐time AF ablation, CBA of the pulmonary veins and extrapulmonary LA substrates was performed (median: 12 [interquartile range {IQR}: 7‐14] freezes over 1675 seconds [IQR: 1168‐2160]). On LGE‐MRI, significant postablation cryoballoon‐induced LA scar (median: 19.4% [IQR: 13.4‐24.7] in comparison to baseline preablation LA‐LGE (median: 10.6% [IQR 3.1‐13.1]; P = .01) was found. Freedom from AF recurrence at 12 months was 74.5% with median time‐to‐recurrence of 242 days (IQR: 172‐298). In 15 of 26 (58%) patients, esophageal enhancement on the postablation MRI was present with full recovery after 3 months. No major periprocedural complications were observed.

Conclusion

LA substrate modification in addition to PVI using LGE‐MRI‐guided CBA is feasible but still experimental. The efficacy and safety have to be investigated in a prospective randomized trial.
Seasonal variation and correlation analysis of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone in Hangzhou, Southeast China
Authors: Shen Miaoda , Li Zhuoyang , Lv Duo , Yang Ge , Wu Ronghuan , Pan Jun , Wang Shuo , Li Yifan , Xu Sanzhong
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to describe the 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) status of Southeast Chinese individuals influenced by season. The secondary aim was to determine the cutoff for sufficient 25(OH)D in a four‐season region. From January 2011 to June 2014, a total of 17 646 individuals were evaluated in our study. The serum levels of PTH were detected simultaneously in 5579 cases. A total of 25(OH)D and intact PTH were measured by the electrochemiluminescent immunoassay. The distribution of the concentration, prevalence and seasonal variability of 25(OH)D and PTH were studied. The mean 25(OH)D concentration in our study was 43.00(30.40) nmol/L. The prevalence of insufficiency (25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L) was 62.87% and that of deficiency (<30 nmol/L) was 28.54%. Mean serum 25(OH)D levels revealed a limited sinusoidal profile throughout the year and were significantly higher in Autumn. On the other hand, PTH levels showed an opposite response to seasonal effects relative to 25(OH)D. Age, BMI and daylight were not significantly correlated with 25(OH)D and serum PTH reached a plateau at higher values of serum 25(OH)D of 42.86 nmol/L. This study demonstrated that Vitamin D insufficiency is highly prevalent in Southeast China. The concentration of 25(OH)D in the male group was generally higher than that in the female group. Seasonal variation was an important aspect of 25(OH)D and PTH concentration. This study revealed that the optimal serum threshold of 25(OH)D for bone health should be between 40 and 50 nmol/L for Southeast Chinese individuals.
Handgrip measurement as a useful benchmark for locomotive syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A KAMOGAWA‐DM cohort study
Authors: Kitagawa Noriyuki , Okamura Takuro , Kitagawa Nobuko , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Hamaguchi Masahide , Fukui Michiaki
Published: May 2020

Aims/Introduction

To carry out a cross‐sectional single‐center study in a Japanese hospital to determine the diagnostic value of handgrip measurement to detect locomotive syndrome (LS).

Materials and Methods

Consecutive outpatients underwent an LS risk test, which comprised a stand‐up test and a two‐step test, and a handgrip measurement, along with general diabetes‐related tests. We calculated the prevalence of LS, and evaluated the association between handgrip strength and LS.

Results

We enrolled 234 patients in this study. The prevalence of LS in the stand‐up and two‐step tests was 51.5 and 79.0%, respectively. The prevalence of LS in the stand‐up or two‐step tests increased with age both in men and women. Using the stand‐up and two‐step tests, 107 patients (46.7%) were diagnosed with LS. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, used to assess our identification of LS in terms of grip strength in men and women, showed 95% confidence intervals of 0.703 (0.563–0.813) and 0.698 (0.500–0.842), respectively. The odds ratios of grip strength for LS were 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.83–0.97) and 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.76–0.98) in men and women, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that handgrip measurement was useful in detecting LS, and LS should be considered when evaluating patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Comment on: Objectively Measured Physical Activity Reduces the Risk of Mortality Among Brazilian Older Adults
Authors: Katipoglu Bilal , Naharci Mehmet Ilkin , Tasci Ilker
Published: May 2020

See the Reply by Bielemann et al.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Dementia Patients Who Receive Inpatient Palliative Care Consultation
Authors: Sharda Neema , Zietlow Kahli , Wong Serena , Kuchibhatla Maragatha , Johnson Kimberly S.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Acute hospitalization may be an ideal opportunity to introduce palliative care to dementia patients, who may benefit from symptom management and goals of care discussions. We know little about patients who receive inpatient palliative care consultations (IPCCs).

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis using electronic medical record.

SETTING

Tertiary academic medical center and affiliated community hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with dementia by International Classification of Diseases diagnosis, 65 years or older, hospitalized between July 1, 2015, and December 31, 2015.

MEASUREMENTS

We used χ2 and t‐test/Mann‐Whitney U test to compare characteristics (living arrangement, advanced dementia markers, diagnoses of delirium and dementia with behavior disturbance, and admitting diagnosis) and outcomes (change in code status, length of stay [LOS], discharge disposition, and discharge medications for symptom management) of patients who did and did not receive IPCC. Patients were matched on sex, age, and race.

RESULTS

Among 927 hospitalized patients with dementia, 17% received IPCC (N = 157). Patients who received IPCC were more likely to be admitted from a nursing facility (35.7% vs 12.7%; P < .0001), experience delirium (71.3% vs 57.3%; P = .01), have behavior disturbance (23.6% vs 13.4%; P = .02), have a pressure ulcer at admission (26.1% vs 11.5%; P = .001), have hypernatremia (12.7% vs 3.2%; P = .002), and be bedbound (20.4% vs 3.2%; P < .000). Patients who received IPCC had a longer LOS (median = 5.9 vs 4.3 days; P = .004) and were more likely to be discharged to hospice (56% vs 3.1%; P < .0001). Patients with IPCC were more likely to have a discharge code status of do not attempt resuscitation (89% vs 46%). There was no significant difference in comfort medications at discharge between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who received IPCC had evidence of more advanced dementia. These patients were more likely to change their code status and enroll in hospice. IPCC may be useful to prioritize patient‐centered care and discuss what matters most to patients and families.
HDAC2 (Histone deacetylase 2): A critical factor in environmental enrichment‐mediated stroke recovery
Authors: Lin Yu‐Hui , Yao Meng‐Cheng , Wu Hai‐Yin , Dong Jian , Ni Huan‐Yu , Kou Xiao‐Lin , Chang Lei , Luo Chun‐Xia , Zhu Dong‐Ya
Published: May 2020

Environmental enrichment (EE) is a generally accepted strategy to promote stroke recovery and its beneficial effect is positively correlated with neuroplasticity. However, the mechanisms underlying it remain elusive. Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), a negative regulator of neuroplasticity, is up‐regulated after stroke. Thus, we hypothesized that HDAC2 may participate in EE‐mediated stroke recovery. In this study, focal stroke was induced by photothrombosis in male mice exposing to EE or standard housing (SH) conditions. Recombinant virus vectors, including Ad‐HDAC2‐Flag, AAV‐CAG‐EGFP‐Cre, LV‐shHDAC2, or their controls were microinjected into the motor cortex at 3 days before stroke. Grid‐walking and cylinder tasks were conducted to assess motor function. Western blot and immunostaining were used to uncover the mechanisms underlying EE‐mediated stroke recovery. We found that EE exposure reversed stroke‐induced HDAC2 up‐regulation, implicating HDAC2 in EE‐mediated functional recovery. Importantly, EE‐dependent stroke recovery was counteracted by over‐expressing HDAC2, and HDAC2 knockdown promoted functional recovery from stroke to the similar extent as EE exposure. Moreover, the knockdown of HDAC2 epigenetically enhanced expressions of neurotrophins and neuroplasticity‐related proteins, with similar effects as EE, and consequently, whole brain and corticospinal tract (CST) rewiring. Together, our findings indicate that HDAC2 is critical for EE‐dependent functional restoration. Precisely targeting HDAC2 may mimic EE and serve as a novel therapeutic strategy for stroke recovery.

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Reduced pain with injection of hyaluronic acid with pre‐incorporated lidocaine for nasolabial fold correction: A multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, active‐controlled, split‐face designed, clinical study
Authors: Choi Sun Young , Han Hye Sung , Yoo Kwang Ho , Lee Ji Su , Kim Beom Joon , Lee Yang Won
Published: May 2020

Background

Injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) filler for nasolabial fold (NLF) correction is a popular aesthetic procedure. In relation to HA filler injections, effective pain control for patient comfort is an important concern.

Objectives

We compared the pain relief achieved by HA filler with 0.3% lidocaine (HAF‐Lidocaine) with that achieved by HA filler without lidocaine (HAF) for NLF correction.

Patients/Methods

A total of 62 subjects with visible NLFs were enrolled in this double‐blind study at two university hospitals and injected with HAF‐Lidocaine and HAF, randomly assigned to the each NLFs. Subjects assessed pain using the visual analog scale (VAS). Blinded independent dermatologists assessed the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) and subjects assessed the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) for the evaluation of effectiveness. All adverse events during the follow‐up period were recorded.

Results

Immediately after treatment, 95.2% of subjects who were treated with HAF‐Lidocaine reported reduced pain when compared with those who were treated with HAF and the mean VAS score difference was 38.6 mm. At 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes after treatment, respectively, 67.7%, 41.9%, 32.3%, and 21.0% of subjects experienced reduced pain. Based on the mean WSRS and GAIS scores and the incidence of local injection site reactions, the clinical effectiveness and safety profile of HAF‐Lidocaine were comparable to those of HAF.

Conclusion

We conclude that HA filler containing pre‐incorporated lidocaine could reduce pain in Korean patients for NLF correction, and the addition of lidocaine does not affect the effectiveness and safety of HA filler.