bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Principal component regression analysis demonstrates the collinearity-free effect of sub estimated climatic variables on tree growth in the central Amazon
Authors: Marenco Ricardo Antonio , Antezana-Vera Saul Alfredo
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Climatic variables show a seasonal pattern in the central Amazon, but the intra-annual variability effect on tree growth is still unclear. For variables such as relative humidity (RH) and air vapor pressure deficit (VPD), whose individual effects on tree growth can be underestimated, we hypothesize that such influences can be detected by removing the effect of collinearity between regressors. Objective: This study aimed to determine the collinearity-free effect of climatic variability on tree growth in the central Amazon. Methods: Monthly radial growth was measured in 325 trees from January 2013 to December 2017. Irradiance, air temperature, rainfall, RH, and VPD data were also recorded. Principal Component Regression was used to assess the effect of micrometeorological variability on tree growth over time. For comparison, standard Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) was also used for data analysis. Results: Tree growth increased with increasing rainfall and relative humidity, but it decreased with rising maximum VPD, irradiance, and maximum temperature. Therefore, trees grew more slowly during the dry season, when irradiance, temperature and VPD were higher. Micrometeorological variability did not affect tree growth when MLR was applied. These findings indicate that ignoring the correlation between climatic variables can lead to imprecise results. Conclusions: A novelty of this study is to demonstrate the orthogonal effect of maximum VPD and minimum relative humidity on tree growth.
Action of heparin and acetylcholine modulators on the neurotoxicity of the toad Rhinella schneideri (Anura: Bufonidae) in Brazil
Authors: Rostelato-Ferreira Sandro , Vettorazzo Orlando B. , Tribuiani Natália , Leal Allan P. , Dal Belo Cháriston A. , Rodrigues-Simioni Léa , Floriano Rafael S. , Oshima-Franco Yoko
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Rhinella schneideri is a toad widely distributed in South America and its poison is characterized by inducing cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Objective: In this work, we investigated pharmacological strategies to attenuate the peripheral neurotoxicity induced by R. schneideri poison in avian neuromuscular preparation. Methods: The experiments were carried out using isolated chick biventer cervicis preparation subjected to field stimulation for muscle twitches recordings or exposed to acetylcholine and potassium chloride for contracture responses. Results: Poison (10 μg/ml) produced complete neuromuscular blockade in chick biventer cervicis preparation within approximately 70 min incubation (times for 50 and 90 % blockade: 15 ± 3 min and 40 ± 2 min, respectively; P < 0.05, N= 5); contracture responses to exogenous acetylcholine and KCl were unaffected by poison indicating no specificity with postsynaptic receptors or myotoxicity, respectively. Poison (10 μg/ml)-induced neuromuscular blockade was not prevented by heparin (5 and 150 IU/ml) under pre- or post-treatment conditions. Incubation at low temperature (23-25 °C) abolished the neuromuscular blockade; after raising the temperature to 37 °C, the complete neuromuscular blockade was slightly slower than that seen in preparations directly incubated at 37 °C (times for 50 and 90 % blockade: 23 ± 2 min and 60 ± 2.5 min, respectively; P < 0.05, N= 4). Neostigmine (3.3 μM) did not reverse the neuromuscular blockade in BC preparation whereas 3,4-diaminopyridine (91.6 μM) produced a partial and sustained reversal of the twitch responses (29 ± 7.8 % of maximal reversal reached in approximately 40 min incubation; P < 0.05, N= 4). Conclusions: R. schneideri poison induces potent peripheral neurotoxicity in vitro which can be partially reversible by 3,4-diaminopyridine.
Alimentación, comportamiento de oviposición, ciclo de vida y enemigos naturales de Hamadryas feronia (Nymphalidae) en la Amazonía del Perú
Authors: Vásquez-Bardales Joel , Vargas-Zelada Yurisa Norelli , Pinedo-Jiménez Julio , García-Ruiz Alberto , Valderrama-Freyre Heiter , Ramírez-Hernandez Juan José
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Hamadryas feronia feronia, which mimics the bark of trees and often makes attention-grabbing sounds when flying, has good potential for bio-business (export, handicrafts and tourist breeding centers). However, its biological aspects are still unknown, which hinder its captive breeding. Objectives: To determine the biological aspects of feeding, oviposition behavior, life cycle and natural enemies of Hamadryas feronia feronia L. in San Rafael-Indiana, Loreto, Peru. Methods: Sampling was conducted from January 2018 to December 2019 in the community of San Rafael, Amazon River. Adults were observed during the day, their food plants, oviposition behavior, biological cycle and natural enemies were recorded. The life cycle was evaluated in the laboratory, using 20 eggs recently deposited on the leaves of their host plant. Results: The larvae of H. feronia feronia feed on the leaves of Dalechampia juruana and the adults feed on the bark sap of Cedrela odorata, Spondias mombin, Uncaria guianensis and the fermented fruits of Syzygium malaccense and Pouteria caimito. Adults fly on sunny days, males emit a loud sound when flying. Females prior to oviposition flit irregularly around their host plant between 8.00 and 14.00 h and deposit their eggs on the upper and underside of leaves in isolation, most frequently on the underside. The duration of the cycle from egg to adult was 28.24 days. The average egg period was 3.75 ± 0.40 days. The larvae passed through five larval instars: the first instar 3.21 ± 1.03 days, the second 2.78 ± 0.73 days, the third 2.67 ± 0.77 days, the fourth 3.22 ± 0.81 days, and the fifth 4.61 ± 0.70 days. The prepupal period lasted 1.33 ± 0.49 days and the pupal period 6.67 ± 0.80 days; the adults hatched between 10:00 to 11:00 h. Adult males lived on average 31.80 ± 3.29 days, the female 42.00 ± 2.14 days and their eggs were parasitized by a microhymenopteran (Scelionidae). Conclusions: This study allowed to know the biological aspects of H. feronia feronia identifying its food plants of both larvae and adults, its oviposition behavior, as well as it has been determined that it has a relatively short biological cycle with a period of less than one month and its eggs are consumed by a small Hymenoptera that can hinder its production. This work provides necessary information to develop the breeding of H. feronia feronia, oriented to its conservation, environmental education and biotrade (tourism and handicrafts) in the Peruvian Amazon.
Las cabras como dispersores de semillas: aportes y limitaciones para la regeneración del bosque tropical estacionalmente seco de Ecuador
Authors: Espinosa Carlos I. , Reyes Carlos , Jara-Guerrero Andrea
Published: May 2021

Introducción: Los bosques tropicales estacionalmente secos están sujetos a procesos de degradación crónica que ponen en riesgo su diversidad. La ganadería intensiva dentro de los remanentes de bosque se plantea como una de las principales causas de estos procesos de degradación. Sin embargo, el ganado también podría estar cumpliendo el rol de dispersor de semillas para algunas especies. Objetivo: Evaluar el rol de las cabras en la dispersión de semillas de especies leñosas y las posibles consecuencias de su comportamiento alimenticio sobre la estructura de la vegetación. Métodos: Entre diciembre 2016 y junio 2017 se recolectaron fecas de corrales (N = 38) y parcelas de vegetación (N = 42) de tres localidades de bosque seco en el Suroccidente de Ecuador. Todas las semillas encontradas en las fecas (N = 13 326) se registraron e identificaron taxonómicamente. Para evaluar el efecto de la ingestión de semillas sobre la germinación, se estableció un experimento de siembra de semillas extraídas de fecas procedentes de corrales y semillas recolectadas directamente de la planta. Resultados: Las cabras dispersaron 10 especies leñosas, de las cuales al menos el 50 % son leguminosas. Las semillas de Acacia macracantha representaron más del 70 % de semillas presentes en fecas de cabra. El paso de semillas por el tracto digestivo de las cabras mejoró significativamente el porcentaje y velocidad de germinación en Albizia multiflora, Piscidia carthagenensis y Ziziphus thyrsiflora, mientras que en Choroleucon mangense y Prosopis juliflora no se obtuvo germinación. No encontramos una correlación entre la riqueza de árboles establecidos y el número de especies encontradas en las fecas (χ2 = -0.23, P = 0.53). La composición de especies de semillas dispersadas en las fecas no mostró una dependencia de la localidad, a pesar de que la composición de la vegetación establecida cambia entre localidades. La abundancia de semillas en las fecas no mostró relación con la abundancia de árboles en la vegetación establecida. Conclusiones: Las cabras pueden suplir en cierta medida el rol de otros ungulados localmente extintos, mejorando la germinación de especies de leguminosas con testa dura. Sin embargo, su comportamiento alimenticio y la alta dominancia en la dispersión de ciertas especies puede tener importantes efectos en la estructura de la comunidad.
Viability of the vaquita, Phocoena sinus (Cetacea: Phocoenidae) population, threatened by poaching of Totoaba macdonaldi (Perciformes: Sciaenidae)
Authors: Cisneros-Mata Miguel A. , Delgado Juan A. , Rodríguez-Félix Demetrio
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Despite extensive science-based conservation policy recommendations, with fewer than 20 individuals remaining, the vaquita (Phocoena sinus) -endemic to the Gulf of California- is the world’s most endangered marine mammal due to incidental catch in fishing nets and whether it can recover is unclear. Objective: Assess expectations for vaquita over the next two decades. Methods: We identified factors affecting the vaquita, constructed life tables, derived demographic parameters for different scenarios and conducted a population viability analysis using stochastic age-structured matrix Leslie models. Results: Analytical results indicate that the vaquita net growth rate is particularly sensitive to juvenile survival. We find that intensive, ongoing bycatch in gillnets used to poach totoaba (Totoaba macdonaldi) over the past decade brought the vaquita population to its current critically low size. Currently this seems to be exacerbated by demographic stochasticity and a potential Allee effect. Conclusions: If totoaba poaching is eliminated immediately, demographically, vaquita can recover; its long-term survival will depend on its uncertain genetic status, although a recent study found encouraging results in this regard.
Program Humas Perum Perhutani Jawa Barat dan Banten dalam Membina Hubungan Baik dengan Publik Eksternal
Authors: Burhanudin Ahmad , Rosyidi Imron , Muchtar Khoiruddin
Published: May 2021

Background this study was the importance of the external Public is a major factor which is important, obviously, is progressing and the withdrawal of a company specified by the customer or the public. The pattern of partnerships in Forestry Department started since year 2001 based on the decision letter of the Board of Trustees Perhutani No. 136 of the year 2001 of a joint forest management community. The investor is the most important external public because investors became the biggest revenue or income for the Perhutani. The methods used in this research is qualitative research methods with the design of the study cases. Because the purpose of this research is to understand the object examined in depth, outlines, describe and interpret comprehensively about various aspects of individuals that represent a company are in the scope of the problems examined. The concept used in this study is Ekternal Relations and Investor Relations how the Perhutani Regional Division of West Java and Banten in serving the interests of a wide range of External public groups especially in working together manage forest products or make use of the empty forest land. Therefore, public relations plays an important role in living a good relationship between the company with investors. This research aims to find out how to program Publicist in fostering good relations with the Public, especially in External relations well with investors.
Frequency of positive oral food challenges and their outcomes in the allergy unit of a tertiary-care pediatric hospital
Authors: Ballini Guilia , Gavagni Chiara , Guidotti Caterina , Ciolini Giulia , Liccioli Giulia , Giovannini Mattia , Sarti Lucrezia , Ciofi Daniele , Novembre Elio , Mori Francesca , Barni Simona
Published: May 2021

Introduction and objective: The oral food challenge (OFC) is the gold standard to diagnose food allergy (FA); however, it is not a procedure free from the risk of having significant allergic reactions, even life-threatening.The aims of our study were to evaluate the frequency of positive OFCs performed in chil-dren with a suspected diagnosis of IgE- and non-IgE–mediated (food protein–induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)) FA and how the failed challenges were managed.Materials and methods: A retrospective chart review was done on all children who have had OFCs in a tertiary-care pediatric allergy unit from 2017 to 2019.Results: 682 patients were enrolled and 2206 challenges were performed: 2058 (93%) for IgE-mediated FA and 148 (7%) for FPIES. There were 262 (11.8%) challenge failures. The transfer to the emergency department was required 3 times (1.1%). None of the failed challenges resulted in death or hospitalization and 13.3% challenges did not require any treatment.Conclusions: Our findings confirm that food challenges can be performed safely in a specialized setting by well-trained personnel; all food challenge reactions, even the most serious, were reversible, thanks to a prompt recognition and treatment that generally did not worsen over time.
Early life triggers for food allergy, that in turn impacts dietary habits in childhood
Authors: Vassilopoulou Emilia , Vardaka Elisabeth , Efthymiou Dimitris , Pitsios Constantinos
Published: May 2021

Introduction and objectives: In order to investigate food allergy’s prevalence, risk factors and eating behavior of children with relevant anamnesis, a study was performed in Cypriot primary schools.Patients: A specially composed questionnaire for self-reported adverse reactions to food, cre-ated in the context of the EuroPrevall study, was distributed in 13 representative primary schools across the country. Participants were sub-grouped into three groups; healthy (H), those with unconfirmed food hypersensitivity reactions (FA−) and children with a confirmed diagnosis by a physician IgE-mediated food allergy (FA+). Food habits, family health history and lifestyle factors were assessed and groups’ outcomes were compared with each other.Results: For the study, 202 questionnaires were completed and returned; 31 children (19 FA-and 12 FA+) reported an adverse food reaction. Significant risk factors for developing FA+ were being the first born or having siblings with asthma, attended a day nursery, but also maternal alcohol drinking during pregnancy, parental smoking and parental occupation in food processing or use of latex gloves. The presence of children in the kitchen during cooking showed a protective role. Dietary habits of FA+ children were significantly diminished in terms of variety and frequency of consumption in comparison to the rest, in which had a greater overlap.
Conclusion: Further research is required for the interesting risk or protective factors revealing from the current investigation. The negative effect of food allergy in the dietary habits of food allergic children documented in the literature, is strongly supported herein.
Prevalence and associated factors of allergic diseases in school children and adolescents aged 6-7 and 13-14 years old from two rural areas in Colombia
Authors: Moreno-López Sergio , Pérez-Herrera Lucia C. , Peñaranda Daniel , Hernández Diana C. , García Elizabeth , Peñaranda Augusto
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The prevalence of allergic diseases is increasing worldwide, affecting about 30% of the population in low to middle-income countries. Research trends on allergic diseases within rural pediatric populations of Latin American countries is scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis) and their associated factors using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood-III (ISAAC-III) questionnaire in school-aged children from two rural municipalities in Colombia.Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional study. The ISAAC-III questionnaire was applied to school-aged children attending elementary schools in the municipalities of Soracá and Palmas del Socorro during 2018. The questionnaires were applied to adolescents aged 13–14 years and the parents of 6–7 years old children. Associations were estimated via bivariate and multivariate analysis.
Results: Among 261 school-aged children (58.2% adolescents), the prevalence of allergic dis-eases was: allergic rhinitis 11.49% (95% CI: 8.05–15.78), asthma 8.81% (95% CI: 5.82–12.7), and atopic dermatitis 6.13% (95% CI: 3.69–9.53). Associated factors for allergic rhinitis included: female sex (PR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.17–5.26), asthma (PR: 4.69, 95% CI: 1.96–8.31), atopic dermatitis (PR: 3.55, 95% CI: 1.09–7.83), and higher maternal education (PR: 4.16, 95% CI: 1.45–8.25).Conclusions: The prevalence of allergic diseases in this rural pediatric population was lower compared with that of the previous reports from urban populations. Associated factors found in this study support previous studies. Research addressing modifiable environmental associ-ations is so far scarce in Latin America; further studies are needed to reduce the burden of these diseases in rural populations.
Infantile atopic dermatitis: Serum vitamin D, zinc and TARC levels and their relationship with disease phenotype and severity
Authors: Esenboga Saliha , Gur Cetinkaya Pınar , Sahiner Neriman , Birben Esra , Soyer Ozge , Enis Sekerel Bulent , Murat Sahiner Umit
Published: May 2021

Background: Several markers that influence the clinical course of atopic dermatitis (AD) have been investigated so far. Thymus and activation regulated chemokine (TARC) – a Th2-related cytokine – increase in various atopic diseases. It has been shown that vitamin D affects Treg cells and immune responses. Zinc as an essential trace element for cell–cell interactions, cellular differentiation, and proliferation. However, the effect of these markers on infantile AD and disease severity are mostly unknown.Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between TARC, vitamin D, zinc levels, and the disease severity in infants with AD.Method: AD patients (n = 160) with age and sex that matched healthy controls (n = 79) were included in the study. The diagnosis of AD was made based on the Hanifin–Rajka criteria. The objective SCORAD index was used for the assessment of disease severity.Results: A total of 160 patients (male 71.9%) with AD were included in the study. The median age of onset of symptoms was 2 (1.0–3.5) months. The lesions initially started on face 76.9%, neck 6.9%, extremities 7.5%, and body 8.8%. Nearly 40% of the patients were found to be atopic. Food allergy was found in 39.4%. The median of objective SCORAD index was 27.5 (17.5–40) in the study group. The TARC levels of AD patients were higher than control group [1803 pg/ml (1006– 3123) vs 709 pg/ml (504–1147), p < 0.001] There was a significant correlation between objective SCORAD scores and TARC values in subjects with AD (r = 0.363, p < 0.001). As the severity of AD increased, vitamin D levels decreased (p for trend 0.015) and TARC values increased (p for trend < 0.001). Serum zinc levels did not change with the severity of the disease. The presence of atopy did not have an influence on serum TARC, zinc, and vitamin D levels.Conclusion: In infants with AD, disease severity is positively related with TARC levels; and inversely proportional to vitamin D levels. TARC levels differ between patients and healthy controls. The presence of atopy has not been shown to affect these markers.
The effects of maternal anxiety and attitudes on the adherence to inhaled corticosteroids in children with asthma
Authors: Sancakli Ozlem , Akin Aslan Asli
Published: May 2021

Objective: Long-term inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use in children with asthma causes serious concerns in parents, leading to treatment non-adherence. This study aimed to investigate the effect of maternal anxiety and attitudes on adherence to ICS therapy in children with asthma.
Method: The patient group included the children with mild to moderate persistent asthma, aged 6–11 years. Healthy children in a similar age range were included as a control group. The patient group was divided into two categories (treatment adherent and non-adherent) accord-ing to the regularity of ICS use. All patients were assessed with Childhood-Asthma Control Test (C-ACT), and their mothers were assessed using Parent Attitude Research Instrument (PARI) and Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI).Results: A total of 156 children (age: 7.4 ± 1.4 years, F/M: 71/85) with persistent asthma and 60 healthy children (age: 7.5 ± 1.3 years, F/M:25/35) were included in the study. The rate of adher-ence in children with asthma was 52.6%. Mothers of non-adherent patients had significantly higher BAI scores than those of the adherent patients and controls (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The number of mothers who indicated that they did not have enough informa-tion about asthma and treatment was also higher in the non-adherent group. PARI subtest scores were not different between the adherent and non-adherent groups.Conclusions: In our study, it was found that mothers’ anxiety levels and their knowledge about asthma and medications were associated with treatment adherence in children with asthma. Psychological and educational support to the families of children with asthma would improve their treatment adherence and efficacy.
Childhood wheezing phenotypes and their association to perinatal factors: a longitudinal study
Authors: De la Calle Cabrera Teresa , De Arriba Méndez Sonia , López González Mª Mar , García García Dolores , García-Marcos Luis , Galindo Purificación Vicente , Pellegrini Belinchón Javier
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Multiple gestational and early life factors have been described as the variables that increase the risk for each phenotype of infantile wheezing. Our objective was to study the evolution of wheezing in a cohort of children followed up to 9–10 years of age and its rela-tionship with different perinatal risk factors.Methods: A longitudinal study was made on the evolution of wheezing, over time, in 1164 chil-dren from Salamanca (Spain) included in the International Study of Wheezing in Infants, when the children were 12 months old. They were classified into three phenotypes: transient early wheezing (last episode before 3 years of age), early persistent wheezing (start before 3 years age and persisting thereafter), and late-onset wheezing (first episode after 3 years of age). Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to establish associations between the different phenotypes and perinatal factors.Results: Data were obtained corresponding to a total of 531 children. Of these, 169 (31.8%) had experienced transient early wheezing, 100 (18.8%) early persistent wheezing, 28 (5.3%) late-onset wheezing, and 234 (44.1%) had never experienced wheezing. Cesarean delivery, early exposure to infections, the presence of atopic eczema, and a smoking father were asso-ciated with transient early wheezing. Early persistent wheezing was associated with a family history of allergy, smoking, and obstetric diseases. Exclusive breastfeeding was identified as a protective factor in both transient and persistent early wheezing. Late-onset wheezing was associated with the male gender and with maternal history of rhinitis and eczema. Conclusions: Wheezing phenotypes were associated with different risk perinatal factors. Knowledge in the field is essential in order to influence the modifiable factors.
Analysis of specific antibody and cellular immune response to first-dose measles vaccine Edmonston-Zagreb (EZ) in 9-month-old infants
Authors: H.R. Teni , Barlıanto Wisnu , Wıyasa I Wayan Arsana , Kusuma H.M.S. , Sari Tita , Bachtıar Novilia
Published: May 2021

Background: Measles vaccinations have been suggested to provide immune protection and decreased measles incidence. However, there was a limited study evaluating how the measles vaccine elicits specific immune responses.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate both humoral and cellular immunity to first-dose measles vaccine Edmonston-Zagreb (EZ) in 9-month-old Indonesian infants.Methods: A cohort study was conducted on 9-month-old infants who got the first-dose of measles vaccine EZ. Measles-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody serum levels were measured using plaque-reduction microneutralization assay. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated with a measles-specific peptide to identify a cellular immune response. Quantification of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells producing interferon-gamma (IFN-ɣ) and interleu-kin 17-A (IL-17A) were conducted by flow cytometry. Humoral and cellular immune response parameters were analyzed over time.Results: The prevalence of seropositivity rates was 85.8% at 1-month after vaccination and 16.67% at 6-months postvaccination. Measles-specific IgG antibodies increased significantly at 1-month after measles vaccination. However, they decreased significantly 6-months after vaccination. IFN-ɣ and IL-17A secreting T-cells increased significantly at 1-month after measles vaccination. Interestingly, a significant decrease of IFN-ɣ and IL-17A secreting CD4+ T cells was noticed 6-months postvaccination compared to IFN-ɣ and IL-17A secreting CD8+ T cells.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that the first-dose measles vaccine on 9-months-old infants seems to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses that decline 6-months after vaccination.
Low prevalence of asthma in Mexican children and adults with a positive rtRT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2: a cross-sectional study during the 2020 pandemic
Authors: Bedolla-Barajas Martín , Morales-Romero Jaime , Bedolla-Pulido Tonatiuh Ramses , Meza-López Carlos , Robles-Figueroa Martín , Pulido-Guillén Norma Angélica , Orozco-Alatorre Luis Gustavo , Andrade-Castellanos Carlos Alberto
Published: May 2021

Background: It has recently been argued that asthma does not increase the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. If so, the prevalence of asthma in subjects diagnosed with COVID-19 should be lower than in the general population.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of asthma in Mexican children and adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection.Methods: A public database of the Epidemiological Surveillance System for Viral Respiratory Disease in Mexico was analyzed. Those who underwent the real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction-SARS-CoV-2 (rtRT-PCR-SARS-CoV-2) test from February 27 to June 21, 2020, were included. In addition to the prevalence of asthma, some factors associated with it were investigated.
Results: Data from 417,366 subjects were analyzed. Asthma prevalence in children, adults, and global were 3.7%, 3.3%, and 3.3%, respectively. Although the asthma prevalence was lower in SARS-CoV-2 positive over negative patients, significant differences were only found in adults (2.8% vs. 3.7% respectively; odds ratio (OR) = 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71–0.77); but not in children (3.5% vs. 3.8%, respectively; OR = 0.91; 95%CI: 0.76–1.10). Multivariate analysis showed in younger than 18 years that girls and immunosuppression were factors associated with a decrease in the odds to develop asthma. In adults, asthma was positively associated with females, obesity, smoking, immunosuppression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arterial hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
Natural remedies for acute post-viral cough in children
Authors: Murgia Vitalia , Ciprandi Giorgio , Votto Martina , De Filippo Maria , Tosca Maria Angela , Marseglia Gian Luigi
Published: May 2021

The post-viral acute cough is the most common symptom in childhood. Consequently, the use of cough relievers is frequent. Many products for treating cough contain natural compo-nents. An ancient tradition has always established herbal medicine and honey as effective and safe means to relieve cough. Nevertheless, very few studies adequately investigated the real effectiveness and safety of natural products in treating acute cough. There is some evidence, provided by pediatric randomized controlled trials, about honey, one multicomponent product (containing Plantagolanceolata, Grindelia robusta, Helichrysum italicum, and honey), and Pelargonium sidoides. Other group of substances, including glycerol and isolated natural compounds, can help manage cough but robust evidence still lacks in children. There is an urgent need to perform rigorous studies that confirm the natural products’ efficacy and safety for relieving post-viral acute cough.Key points: Acute post-viral cough is prevalent in childhood and adolescence. There is a grow-ing interest concerning the use of natural remedies for post-viral cough. Many herbal medicines could be used satisfactorily for this issue.
Functional constipation related to cow’s milk allergy in children. A management proposal
Authors: Gelsomino Mariannita , Del Vescovo Ester , Bersani Giulia , Miceli Sopo Stefano
Published: May 2021

Functional constipation (FC) is one of the most common disorders in childhood and has a neg-ative impact on the quality of life of children. Scientific evidence regarding a causal relation-ship between FC and cow’s milk allergy is controversial, as it is also reported by the latest European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition-North American Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN–NASPGHAN) rec-ommendations. In the case of FC, routine allergometric tests are not recommended and the cows’ milk-free diet is only proposed in the case of laxative-resistant constipation and only following the advice of an expert. Instead, after a careful review of the literature and in view of the many clinical cases encountered in our clinical practice, we believe that it is useful to propose cows’ milk-free diet as first line for the treatment of FC at least in pre-school children and in children with a personal or family history of atopy or with a previous diagnosis of cow’s milk protein allergy.
The importance of component-resolved diagnostics in IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy
Authors: Popielarz Maria , Krogulska Aneta
Published: May 2021

Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is an increasingly common problem among children and adults that requires the use of appropriate diagnostics to eliminate allergic reactions and prevent unnec-essary dietary regimes. The current diagnostics methods are imperfect hence new, more effective methods are still being sought. Component-resolved diagnostics (CRD) is one of them. CRD assesses sensitivity to individual allergen molecules using purified native or recombinant allergens. The present paper reviews the role of CRD in diagnosing CMA, as well as the benefits and limitations of its use, especially in predicting allergy development or acquiring immunotolerance. It examines the possibility of replacing the current gold diagnostic standard with component tests directed against specific milk proteins. In addition, CRD could be helpful in the evaluation of prognosis. However, CRD allows for improvement in clinical management, particularly of polysensitized subjects, there is still no cogent evidence that it offers more efficient CMA diagnostics than existing tests.
Suppressive effect of tamarixetin, isolated from Inula japonica, on degranulation and eicosanoid production in bone marrow-derived mast cells
Authors: Pan Shunli , Lee Eujin , Ju Lee Youn , Jin Meihua , Lee Eunkyung
Published: May 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of tamarixetin on the production of inflammatory mediators in IgE/antigen-induced mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs).Materials and methods: The effects of tamarixetin on mast cell activation were investigated with regard to degranulation, eicosanoid generation, Ca2+ influx, and immunoblotting of vari-ous signaling molecules.Results: Tamarixetin effectively decreased degranulation and the eicosanoid generation such as leukotriene C4 and prostaglandin D2 in BMMCs. To elucidate the mechanism involved, we investigated the effect of tamarixetin on the phosphorylation of signal molecules. Tamarixetin inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream signal molecules including IKK and nuclear factor κB. In addition, tamarixetin downregulated the phosphorylation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase.Conclusions: Taken together, this study suggests that tamarixetin inhibits degranulation and eicosanoid generation through the PLCγ1 as well as Akt pathways in BMMCs, which would be potential for the prevention of allergic inflammatory diseases.
Relationship of cord blood IgE with maternal, fetal, and environmental factors in the Chinese population
Authors: Chen Mengxue , Gu Yutong , Liu Quanhua , Ji Ruoxu , Zhang Jianhua , Hua Li
Published: May 2021

Introduction and objectives: Previous studies reported that history of pregnancy and delivery and family environment might influence cord blood IgE (CB-IgE) levels and development of allergies; however, the association between them is not well-established. This study aimed at investigating the IgE level in the newborn’s umbilical cord blood and its relationship with maternal, fetal, and environmental factors.
Materials and methods: A total of 989 mothers and their infants were analyzed in this study. Mothers were given a questionnaire that had a series of questions to evaluate demographic information, maternal allergic status, and environmental exposures during pregnancy. Neonatal cord blood samples were taken at the same time for IgE assay.
Results: By univariate analysis, we found statistically significant correlations between CB-IgE levels and gender (P = 0.000) and delivery mode (P = 0.017). By multivariate analysis, gender was found to have a significant association with CB-IgE levels (P = 0.001). No significant differ-ence was found between CB-IgE levels and antenatal complications, the season of birth, birth weight, gestational age, and household income (P > 0.050).
Conclusions: In this study, newborn gender was found to be a strong predictor of elevated CB-IgE. The delivery mode was a probable predictor.
Food-induced anaphylaxis in children up to 3-years-old – preliminary study
Authors: Gawryjołek Julia , Krogulska Aneta
Published: May 2021

Introduction and objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of food-induced anaphylaxis, analyze the symptoms, and triggering factors in a group of youngest children. Also, the study aims to estimate the frequency of anaphylaxis episodes in children in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship region.Methods: Retrospective analysis of medical records of 29 children aged 0–3 years that presented symptoms of food-induced anaphylaxis. Medical charts were reviewed using a collection of documents with the clinical data.Results: The frequency of anaphylaxis was determined to be 0.3% of all hospitalized children aged 0–3 years and 1.9% of children suspected of food allergy. The mean age of an anaphylactic reaction was 12±9 months. The most common symptom was mild-moderate urticaria. The respiratory symptoms were significantly more prevalent in toddlers than in infants (p = 0.148). Cardiac symptoms occurred only in the infant group, i.e., in two (11%) infants. As a possible cause of the symptoms, in 18 (62%) cases, parents most often indicated the consumption of milk or milk-rice porridge. Anaphylaxis as the first manifestation of food-allergy was significantly more prevalent in infants than in older children (p = 0.0002).Conclusions: The incidence of anaphylactic reactions rated at 0.3% of all children hospitalized at this age. The most common symptoms of anaphylactic reaction were skin lesions. The primary cause of allergic reactions was cow’s milk after the first exposure at home. Anaphylaxis has different patterns of symptoms depending on the age of the child.
The relationship between allergic diseases and internalizing and externalizing behaviours in Spanish children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Berzosa-Grande M Pilar , González-Fraile Eduardo , Sánchez- López Rocío , Soria-Oliver María , Rueda-Esteban Santiago
Published: May 2021

Introduction and objectives: The relationship between allergic diseases and behavioural dis-orders is still unclear. The objective of this study was to describe and compare children’s behaviour (internalising and externalising) across a sample of children aged 6–11 years with and without allergic diseases.
Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional observational case-control study. A survey to 366 families (194 allergic cases and 172 controls), including a child behaviour checklist (CBCL) and a socio-demographic questionnaire with questions related to family, school education, health conditions and allergy symptoms, was administered.
Results: Children with a diagnosis of allergy showed higher scores in the overall CBCL score (standardised mean differences [SMD] = 0.47;  confidence  intervals  [CI]:  0.26–0.68)  and in the internalising and externalising factors (SMD = 0.52 and SMD = 0.36, respectively) than non-allergic children. Odds ratio (OR) analyses showed a higher risk (OR = 2.76; 95% CI [1.61 to 4.72]) of developing a behavioural difficulty in children diagnosed with allergies. Age and level of asthma appear as modulatory variables. Conclusions: Children aged 6–11 years diagnosed with allergies showed larger behavioural problems than non-allergic children, especially in the case of internalising behaviours. These findings suggest the importance of attending to them and treating them in the early stages of diagnosis to avoid future psychological disorders.
Atypical Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome in children: Is IgE sensitization an issue longitudinally?
Authors: Papadopoulou Athina , Lagousi Theano , Hatzopoulou Elpiniki , Korovessi Paraskevi , Kostaridou Stavroula , Mermiri Despina -Zoe
Published: May 2021

Background: Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) is a clinically well-characterised, non-Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergy syndrome, yet its rare atypical presen-tation remains poorly understood.Objective: Aim of this study was to present the 10-year experience of a referral centre high-lighting the atypical FPIES cases and their long-term outcome.Methods: FPIES cases were prospectively evaluated longitudinally in respect of food outgrowth and developing other allergic diseases with or without concomitant IgE sensitisation.Results: One hundred subjects out of a total of 14,188 referrals (0.7%) were identified. At pre-sentation, 15 patients were found sensitised to the offending food. Fish was the most frequent eliciting food, followed by cow’s milk and egg. Tolerance acquisition was earlier for cow’s milk, followed by egg and fish, while found not to be protracted in atypical cases. Resolution was not achieved in half of the fish subjects during the 10-year follow-up time. Sensitisation to food was not related to infantile eczema or culprit food, but was related to sensitisation to aeroallergens. In the long-term evaluation, persistence of the FPIES or aeroallergen sensitisation was significantly associated with an increased hazard risk of developing early asthma symptoms. Conclusion: Sensitisation to food was related neither to eczema or culprit food nor to tolerance acquisition but rather to the development of allergic asthma through aeroallergen sen-sitisation. In addition to an IgE profile at an early age, FPIES persistence may also trigger mechanisms switching FPIES cases to a T-helper 2 cells immune response later in life, predis-posing to atopic respiratory symptoms; albeit further research is required.
Immediate local anesthetic reactions and diagnostic test results in pediatric patients
Authors: Selmanoglu Ahmet , Guvenir Hakan , Kulhas Celik İlknur , Karaatmaca Betul , Toyran Muge , Civelek Ersoy , Misirlioglu Emine Dibek
Published: May 2021

Background/objectives: Adverse reactions to local anesthetics are relatively common, but proven IgE-mediated allergy is extremely rare. We aimed to determine the frequency of local anesthetic allergy in pediatric patients.Patients and methods: The medical records of 73 patients who presented to our clinic with a history of suspected allergic reaction to local anesthetics and underwent diagnostic testing between 2012 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Diagnoses were based on case histories, skin tests, and subcutaneous challenge tests.Results: A total of 75 test series were carried out on the 73 patients (43 boys; median [IQR] age 9.25 [7.26–14.25] years, range 3–17.8 years). The most commonly tested drugs were lido-caine (n = 38; 50.6%) and prilocaine (n = 15; 20%). Local anesthetic allergy was confirmed in one (1.3%) of the 73 patients by positive subcutaneous challenge test with mepivacaine.
Conclusion: There are limited data in the current literature regarding local anesthetic allergies and diagnosis test results in pediatric patients. Proven local anesthetic allergy is less common than expected by society and physicians, and therefore diagnostic tests are needed for patients with no contra-indications such as severe or life-threatening reactions.
Interventions for English Language Learners: A Review
Authors: Horne Olivia
Published: May 2021

English Language Learners (ELLs) are individuals who have “sufficient difficulty reading, speaking, writing, or understanding the English language” (US Department of Education, 2014). These individuals require strategic and targeted instruction in order for them to succeed in classroom settings. This population represents a clear area of need in the American education system. ELLs are the fastest growing student population in the United States (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010). However, general education teachers consistently report feeling underprepared in their ability to accommodate the unique needs of the ELLs in their classroom (Durgunoğlu & Hughes, 2010, 35). This review only includes high quality sources. The purpose of this literature analysis is to comprehensively evaluate the experiences of English Language Learners, in order to better ascertain the accommodations that they are receiving in the context of the American education system. Through my analysis it is evident that this population has clear needs that are not currently being met. However, if ELLs are provided with tiered interventions, they show significant improvements in their language acquisition.
Pen, to Paper, to the Polls
Authors: Donohoe Benjamin
Published: May 2021

Does the act of signing a petition to place initiatives on the ballot make a voter more likely to vote for that measure? Previous research suggests that television advertising can influence vote share for ballot propositions and that signature gathering campaigns increase registration and turnout and decrease ballot roll-off but has failed to examine the link between petition drives and vote share. Using heteroskedasticity-robust regression with clustered standard errors and multiple levels of fixed effects, I examine whether either statewide spending on petition circulation or the number of voters a petition campaign reaches in a county has a significant impact on vote share. Though statewide spending analysis proves largely inconclusive, the strength of a petition drive within a county has a significant, positive effect on vote share even after endogenizing campaign strategy and incorporating turnout effects.
Weaving a Way to Nostos: Odysseus and Feminine Mêtis in the Odyssey
Authors: LaFrentz Grace
Published: May 2021

My paper examines the gendered nature of Odysseus’ mêtis, a Greek word describing characteristics of cleverness and intelligence, in Homer’s Odyssey. While Odysseus’ mêtis has been discussed in terms of his storytelling, disguise, and craftsmanship, I contend that in order to fully understand his cleverness, we must place Odysseus’ mêtis in conversation with the mêtis of the crafty women who populate the epic. I discuss weaving as a stereotypically feminine manifestation of mêtis, arguing that Odysseus’ reintegration into his home serves as a metaphorical form of weaving—one that he adapts from the clever women he encounters on his journey home from Troy. Athena serves as the starting point for my discussion of mêtis, and I then turn to Calypso and Circe—two crafty weavers who attempt to ensnare Odysseus on their islands. I also examine Helen, whom Odysseus himself does not meet, but whose weaving is importantly witnessed by Odysseus’ son Telemachus, who later draws upon the craft of weaving in his efforts to help Odysseus restore order in his home. The last woman I present is Penelope, whose clever and prolonged weaving scheme helps her evade marriage as she awaits Odysseus’ return, and whose lead Odysseus follows in his own prolonged reentry into his home. I finally demonstrate the way that Odysseus reintegrates himself into his household through a calculated and metaphorical act of weaving, arguing that it is Odysseus’ willingness to embrace a more feminine model of mêtis embodied by the women he encounters that sets him apart from his fellow male warriors and enables his successful homecoming.
As the Caterpillar Chooses
Authors: Barboza Noah
Published: May 2021

William Blake’s (1757-1827) work did not see the resounding success in his time as it does today. A vocal critic of the Church, he expressed his ideas in engravings, poems, and prose, creating his own complex Christian-esque history that he felt encapsulated the good of the religion while excluding the unsavory parts of the institutional organization. Over time, his writings have gained more widespread support, with fears of dissent from those in charge dissipating. Through his works “The Tyger,” “The Garden of Love,” and “The Marriage of Heaven and Hell,” as well as the writings of Blakeian scholars, Blake’s critiques of the Church are demonstrated to be rooted in his belief that the Church is incapable of trusting its followers, instead prescribing a narrow lens in which worship cannot stray far from.
Old Father, Old Artificer: Female Sexuality and Male Authorship in Les Fleurs du mal and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man
Authors: Lu Melanie
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the troubling relationship between the identity of the male artist and female sexuality during the rise of early modernism by comparing two literary works: Charles Baudelaire’s poetry collection Les Fleurs du mal and James Joyce’s novel A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. Portraying prominent female characters as a means to define the authors’ own modern aesthetics, both Baudelaire and Joyce perceive underlying tensions between biological reproduction and artistic creativity, prompting them to explore in detail the relationships between gender, sexuality, and the production of literature. For Baudelaire, the male poet as flaneur derives voyeuristic pleasure from his imaginary lesbian narratives, and his aesthetic awareness of the self that emerges is contrasted with the “sterile” nature of female homosexuality. Joyce’s Stephen Dedalus in Portrait, on the other hand, adopts a more ambivalent relationship towards women: like Baudelaire’s speaker, Stephen usurps the generativity of women by replacing meaningful relations with imaginary ones, subsequently deriving literary inspiration; at the same time, however, these attempts bespeak deeper anxieties towards his inability to attain artistic autonomy, ultimately reflecting increasing vulnerabilities in the modern male artist’s perceptions of self-contained subjectivity. Published half a century apart, these two works marked critical junctures in the emergence of modernism, and a comparative approach thus allows us to trace shifting ideologies of modern personhood and gendered identity.