bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrapartum epidural analgesia and low Apgar score among singleton infants born at term: A propensity score matched study
Authors: Ravelli Anita C. J. , Eskes Martine , de Groot Christianne J. M. , Abu‐Hanna Ameen , van der Post Joris A. M.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The associations of epidural analgesia and low Apgar score found in the Swedish Registry might be a result of confounding by indication. The objective of this study was to assess the possible effect of intrapartum epidural analgesia on low Apgar score and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission in term born singletons with propensity score matching.

Material and methods

This was a propensity score matched study (n = 257 872) conducted in a national cohort of 715 449 term live born singletons without congenital anomalies in the Netherlands. Mothers with prelabor cesarean section were excluded. Main outcome measures were 5‐minute Apgar score <7, 5‐minute Apgar score <4 and admission to a NICU for at least 24 hours. First, an analysis of the underlying risk factors for low Apgar score <7 was performed. Multivariable analyses were applied to assess the effect of the main risk factor, intrapartum epidural analgesia, on low Apgar score to adjust the results for confounding factors. Second, a propensity score matched analysis on the main risk factors for epidural analgesia was applied. By propensity score matching the (confounding) characteristics of the women who received epidural analgesia with the characteristics of the control women without epidural analgesia, the effect of possible confounding by indication is minimized.

Results

Intrapartum epidural analgesia was performed in 128 936 women (18%). Apgar score <7 was present in 1.0%, Apgar score <4 in .2% and NICU admission in .4% of the deliveries. The strongest risk factor for Apgar score <7 was epidural analgesia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8‐2.0). The propensity score matched adjusted analysis of women with epidural analgesia showed significant adverse neonatal outcomes: aOR 1.8 (95% CI 1.7‐1.9) for AS <7, aOR 1.6 (95% CI 1.4‐1.9) for AS <4 and aOR 1.7 (95% CI 1.6‐1.9) for NICU admission. The results of epidural analgesia on AS <7 were also significantly increased for spontaneous start of labor (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.8‐2.1) and for spontaneous delivery.

Conclusions

Intrapartum epidural analgesia at term is strongly associated with low Apgar score and more NICU admissions, especially in spontaneous deliveries. This association needs further research and awareness.
Predictively consistent prior effective sample sizes
Authors: Neuenschwander Beat , Weber Sebastian , Schmidli Heinz , O'Hagan Anthony
Published: March 2020

Determining the sample size of an experiment can be challenging, even more so when incorporating external information via a prior distribution. Such information is increasingly used to reduce the size of the control group in randomized clinical trials. Knowing the amount of prior information, expressed as an equivalent prioreffective sample size (ESS), clearly facilitates trial designs. Various methods to obtain a prior'sESShave been proposed recently. They have been justified by the fact that they give the standardESSfor one‐parameter exponential families. However, despite being based on similar information‐based metrics, they may lead to surprisingly differentESSfor nonconjugate settings, which complicates many designs with prior information. We show that current methods fail a basic predictive consistency criterion, which requires the expected posterior‐predictiveESSfor a sample of sizeNto be the sum of the priorESSandN. Theexpected local‐information‐ratioESSis introduced and shown to be predictively consistent. It corrects theESSof current methods, as shown for normally distributed data with a heavy‐tailed Student‐t prior and exponential data with a generalized Gamma prior. Finally, two applications are discussed: the priorESSfor the control group derived from historical data and the posteriorESSfor hierarchical subgroup analyses.
Treatment of relapsed/refractory paediatric aggressive B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Moleti Maria L. , Testi Anna M. , Foà Robin
Published: March 2020

Aggressive B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (B‐NHL) accounts for ≈60% of NHL in children/adolescents. In newly diagnosed Burkitt lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, short intensive multiagent chemotherapy is associated with a five‐year event‐free survival of around 90%. Very few children/adolescents with aggressive B‐NHL show a relapsed/refractory (r/r) disease. The outcome is poor, with cure rates <30%, and there is no standard of care. Rituximab‐containing salvage regimens may provide a complete/partial response in 60–70% of cases. However, long‐term survival is <10% for non‐transplanted patients. Autologous or allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant is, nowadays, the best option for responding patients, with survival rates around 50%. The benefit of autologous versus allogeneic HSCT is not clear. Numerous novel therapies for r/r B‐NHL are currently being tested in adults, including next‐generation monoclonal antibodies, novel cellular therapy strategies and therapies directed against new targets. Some are under investigation also in children/adolescents, with promising preliminary results.
PGT‐A preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies and embryo selection in routine ART cycles: Time to step back?
Authors: Sciorio Romualdo , Dattilo Maurizio
Published: March 2020

Embryo aneuploidies may be responsible for implantation failures, miscarriages and affects IVF outcomes. A variety of technologies have been implemented to individuate euploid embryos in IVF treatments, which is named preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT‐A). According to this strategy, a better embryo selection should increase IVF results. In reality, several issues remain unaddressed including the sampling strategy, involving the test outcomes, and the frequent occurrence of embryo mosaicism, affecting the criteria for selection of supposed viable embryos and possibly posing an ethical dilemma. Safety issues are in place, including perinatal and postnatal consequences of embryo sampling and the epigenetic weaknesses from a prolonged in vitro culture, necessary for trophectoderm biopsy. On the other side, chromosome number mistakes are progressively recognized as physiologic events in the early pre‐implantation embryo with many corrective mechanisms in place and their destiny in the post‐implantation development is unclear. Accordingly, the increasing precision of the diagnostic tools should be used to investigate the effect of such interventions within rigorous research programs in the sake of improved clinical outcomes. Meantime the diagnosis of embryo aneuploidies in IVF cycles should be considered as a research tool and systematic implementation in clinical practice may appear unjustified.
Educational gaming for dental students: Design and assessment of a pilot endodontic‐themed escape game
Authors: Aubeux Davy , Blanchflower Nuala , Bray Estelle , Clouet Roselyne , Remaud Mathieu , Badran Zahi , Prud'homme Tony , Gaudin Alexis
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The concept of escape games dedicated to dental students is a new learning experience that has not yet been extensively explored. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the impact and perceived value of an endodontic‐themed escape game as assessed by fourth‐year dental students.

Methods

This study was conducted at the University of Nantes, Faculty of Dental Surgery using a cross‐sectional pre‐ and post‐test research design to assess students' changes in performance. Students in the fourth year of dental surgery study (n = 18) were divided in four groups for this study. The answers to the pre‐test/post‐test were 50 true/false questions. Moreover, a 20‐question perception survey was given to all the participants after completion of the escape game. The study data were collected in May 2019. An unpaired t test analysed the mean differences between the groups.

Results

The results showed a statistically significant increase in post‐test results (75.33% ± 10.17% of correct answers) compared to the pre‐test results (67.33% ± 5.94% of correct answers) P < .05. Analysis of variance revealed that this change in score was not significantly different between the four groups. The students perceived the endodontic‐themed escape game to be relevant. A one‐sample t test indicated that students' mean (SD) perception 4.4 (0.7) was statistically significantly higher than the mean value of the evaluation scale P < .001. The students found this educational game to be a useful experience that helped them recall/apply knowledge whilst promoting teamwork.

Conclusion

Therefore, this type of game can enhance students' learning and motivation.
Voluntary movements cause beta oscillations increase and broadband slope decrease in the subthalamic nucleus of parkinsonian patients
Authors: Belova Elena M. , Semenova Ulia , Gamaleya Anna A. , Tomskiy Alexey A. , Sedov Alexey
Published: March 2020

Periodic features of local field potentials (LFP) are extensively studied to establish the pathophysiological features contributing to Parkinson's disease (PD). Pathological LFP synchronization in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) was assumed to link with motor signs of PD. Commonly, the association between oscillations and clinical signs is studied while the patients are at rest. However, changes in LFPs during movement may reflect particular traits of motor processing in the basal ganglia under PD. Recently, the aperiodic 1/f broadband component of LFP spectra has attracted the attention of researchers because it may provide meaningful information about the neural activity in the brain. Here, we compared LFP signals in the STN of parkinsonian patients at rest and during hand movements occasionally followed by leg movements using two approaches, one of which accounts for the aperiodic features of LFP spectra. Using both methods, a significant increase was observed in synchronization in the low beta range during sequent leg but not hand movements. For either movement, there was a significant increase in gamma range synchronization using uncorrected power spectra and a significant decrease in the slope of the aperiodic component for the 1/f‐corrected method. These findings may support the claim that the 1/f slope possibly reflects the excitatory/inhibitory projections ratio in the recording site. Only the difference in the slope correlated significantly with motor signs of PD. These data show that the slope of aperiodic component may be a useful measure that is sensitive to the specific state and its changes in the brain.
An in‐vitro mechanical strain three‐dimensional culture model: periodontal ligament cell viability, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress response
Authors: Firth Fiona A. , Milne Trudy J. , Seo Benedict , Farella Mauro
Published: March 2020

To develop a model to investigate a potential relationship between mechanical strain, cell responses, and endoplasmic reticulum stress in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells, primary PDL cell cultures were obtained from extracted premolars. Cells were cultured in hydrogel and subjected to 24 h of static mechanical strain, resulting in 18% dimensional substrate elongation. Cell viability, caspase‐3/7 activity, and mRNA levels for 28 genes, including unfolded protein response (UPR)‐related and mechanically responsive genes, serving as positive controls for stress induction, were examined. Compared with unstrained cultures, no difference in caspase activity was observed; however, viability responses differed between cell lines. Multiple UPR‐related genes were differentially upregulated, with marginal statistical significance, including cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 like 3 (CREB3L3) (mean fold‐regulation = 1.91), an adenosine monophosphate‐dependent transcription factor with roles in UPR activation and the acute inflammatory response; and the pro‐apoptotic UPR gene, endoplasmic reticulum to nucleus signaling 2 (ERN2) (mean fold‐regulation = 4.01). The observed effect on cell viability following strain with no change in caspase activity suggests that reduction in viability may be mediated via caspase‐3/7‐independent mechanisms. Three‐dimensional mechanical strain PDL cell culture models offer a method to study the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress and UPR, and provide a framework and potential UPR targets for future investigations.
Emergence of oxygen‐ and pyridoxal phosphate‐dependent reactions
Authors: Hoffarth Elesha R. , Rothchild Kristina W. , Ryan Katherine S.
Published: March 2020

Pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP) is an organic cofactor employed by ~ 4% of enzymes. The structure of the PLP cofactor allows for the stabilization of carbanions through resonance. A small number of PLP‐dependent enzymes employ molecular oxygen as a cosubstrate. Here, we review the biological roles and possible mechanisms of these enzymes, and we observe that these enzymes are found in multiple protein families, suggesting that reaction with oxygen might have emerged de novo in several protein families and thus could be directed to emerge again through laboratory evolution experiments.
Melatonin and oxidative stress in melasma ‒ an unexplored territory; a prospective study
Authors: Sarkar Rashmi , Devadasan Shanthy , Choubey Vikrant , Goswami Binita
Published: March 2020

Background

Melasma, an acquired disorder of hyperpigmentation, is the most common pigmentary disorder in India. Many factors are implicated in the pathogenesis, and recently the role of oxidative damage including melatonin has been postulated. This study was undertaken to evaluate the role of oxidative stress and serum melatonin in pathogenesis of melasma.

Methods

Seventy‐five patients with melasma and an equal number of age and sex‐matched controls were included in the study. Clinical characteristics were noted, and baseline severity assessment using modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) was done in all patients. Serum melatonin, catalase, protein carbonyl, and nitric oxide levels were measured and compared between cases and controls.

Results

The serum levels of melatonin and catalase were significantly lower among the cases as compared to controls, while the serum levels of protein carbonyl and nitric oxide were significantly higher in cases compared to controls. There was no statistically significant correlation between these markers of oxidative stress and severity of the disease.

Conclusions

Oxidative stress is increased in patients with melasma compared to the control group in this study. A state of melatonin deficit also exists in patients with melasma. No correlation between the oxidative stress and severity of the disease was found. Further and larger studies including therapeutic trials with powerful antioxidants are warranted.
Temporal relationships between maternal metabolic parameters with neonatal adiposity in women with obesity differ by neonatal sex: Secondary analysis of the DALI study
Authors: Lima Rodrigo A. , Desoye Gernot , Simmons David , Devlieger Roland , Galjaard Sander , Corcoy Rosa , Adelantado Juan M. , Dunne Fidelma , Harreiter Jürgen , Kautzky‐Willer Alexandra , Damm Peter , Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Jensen Dorte M. , Andersen Lise‐Lotte , Tanvig Mette , Lapolla Annunziata , Dalfra Maria G. , Bertolotto Alessandra , Wender‐Ozegowska Ewa , Zawiejska Agnieszka , Hill David J. , Snoek Frank J. , Jelsma Judith G. M. , van Poppel Mireille N. M.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate the importance of time in pregnancy and neonatal sex on the association between maternal metabolic parameters and neonatal sum of skinfolds.

Methods

This was a longitudinal, secondary analysis of the vitamin D and lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes mellitus study, conducted in nine European countries during 2012 to 2015. Pregnant women with a pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) of ≥29 kg/m2 were invited to participate. We measured 14 maternal metabolic parameters at three times during pregnancy: <20 weeks, 24 to 28 weeks, and 35 to 37 weeks of gestation. The sum of four skinfolds assessed within 2 days after birth was the measure of neonatal adiposity.

Results

In total, 458 mother‐infant pairs (50.2% female infants) were included. Insulin resistance (fasting insulin and HOMA‐index of insulin resistance) in early pregnancy was an important predictor for boys' sum of skinfolds, in addition to fasting glucose and maternal adiposity (leptin, BMI and neck circumference) throughout pregnancy. In girls, maternal lipids (triglycerides and fatty acids) in the first half of pregnancy were important predictors of sum of skinfolds, as well as fasting glucose in the second half of pregnancy.

Conclusions

Associations between maternal metabolic parameters and neonatal adiposity vary between different periods during pregnancy. This time‐dependency is different between sexes, suggesting different growth strategies.
Who is afraid of biosimilars? Openness to biosimilars in an Australian cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kovitwanichkanont Tom , Raghunath Sudha , Wang Dorothy , Kyi Leo , Pignataro Silvana , Morton Susan , Morand Eric , Leech Michelle
Published: March 2020

Biosimilars are increasingly adopted to improve affordability of biologics. An effective introduction of biosimilars requires an understanding of patient acceptance of these agents. We performed a cross‐sectional study of 132 patients with rheumatoid arthritis prior to the introduction of biosimilar switching or prescribing in this cohort. Despite being unfamiliar with biosimilars, most patients are willing to accept biosimilar medicines if recommended by their rheumatologist. Patient concerns about biosimilar uptake mainly focus on concerns about its efficacy. There is a significant correlation between patient attitudes towards biosimilar and generic medicines.
Predictors of short‐term mortality in patients undergoing a successful uncomplicated extraction procedure
Authors: Milman Anat , Zahavi Guy , Meitus Amit , Kariv Saar , Shafir Yuval , Glikson Michael , Luria David , Beinart Roy , Nof Eyal
Published: March 2020

Background

The prognosis of patients with untreated cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection is poor. Whether removal of all leads by a successful transvenous lead extraction (TLE) procedure changes the prognosis is unclear.

Objective

To identify predictors of mortality in patients with CIED infection despite successful TLE.

Methods

Retrospective single‐center analysis of prospectively collected database from consecutive patients undergoing TLE at our center. Predictors for mortality were identified and a score predicting high mortality rate was calculated.

Results

A total of 371 consecutive patients underwent TLE, of whom 337 (90.8%) had complete hardware removal. Most were extracted due to infectious causes (81.3%). Approximately one‐third (35%) died during a mean follow‐up of 1056 ± 868 days. There was significantly higher mortality observed in the infectious group. Multivariate logistic regression models for infectious group only identified creatinine and albumin measurements as risk markers for 30 days mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19‐2.38; P = .003 and OR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.16‐0.97; P = .039, respectively). A risk score was created based on cutoff values of creatinine ≥2md/dL (1 point) and albumin ≤3.5 g/dL (1 point). A value of 2 points predicted a 50% chance of 30‐day mortality and a 75% chance of 1‐year mortality (P < .0001 for both).

Conclusions

Creatinine and albumin can be used as a combined risk score to successfully identify patients at risk of death despite undergoing a successful TLE procedure for infectious reasons. This score could help decision making when contemplating on conservative antibiotic treatment vs TLE.
Pregnancy‐associated venous insufficiency course with placental and systemic oxidative stress
Authors: Ortega Miguel A. , Romero Beatriz , Asúnsolo Ángel , Martínez‐Vivero Clara , Sainz Felipe , Bravo Coral , De León‐Luis Juan , Álvarez‐Mon Melchor , Buján Julia , García‐Honduvilla Natalio
Published: March 2020

The development of lower extremity venous insufficiency (VI) during pregnancy has been associated with placental damage. VI is associated with increased oxidative stress in venous wall. We have investigated potential disturbance/dysregulation of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in placenta and its eventual systemic effects through the measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) plasma levels in women with VI. A total of 62 women with VI and 52 healthy controls (HCs) were studied. Levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐oxidase 1 (NOX1), 2 (NOX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), endothelial (eNOS), poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase PARP (PARP) and ERK were measured in placental tissue with immunohistochemistry and RT‐qPCR. Plasma and placental levels of MDA were determined by colorimetry at the two study times of 32 weeks of gestation and post‐partum. Protein and gene expression levels of NOX1, NOX2, iNOS, PARP and ERK were significantly increased in placentas of VI. eNOS activity was low in both study groups, and there were no significant differences in gene or protein expression levels. Women with VI showed a significant elevation of plasma MDA levels at 32 weeks of gestation, and these levels remained elevated at 32 weeks post‐partum. The MDA levels were significantly higher in placentas of women with VI. Placental damage that was found in the women with VI was characterized by overexpression of oxidative stress markers NOX1, NOX2, and iNOS, as well as PARP and ERK. Pregnant women with VI showed systemic increases in oxidative stress markers such as plasma MDA levels. The foetuses of women with VI had a significant decrease in their venous pH as compared to those from HC women. The situation of oxidative stress and cellular damage created in the placenta is in coexpression with the production of a pH acidification.
Case of type 2 diabetes possibly caused by excessive accumulation of visceral fat in a child born small‐for‐gestational age
Authors: Kuwabara Remi , Urakami Tatsuhiko , Yoshida Kei , Morioka Ichiro
Published: March 2020

We encountered a 12‐year‐old boy with type 2 diabetes who was born small‐for‐gestational age. We described his clinical characteristics and a possible etiological factor for development of hyperglycemia. He developed well with sufficient nutrition and progressed to being overweight at 6 years‐of‐age as a result of a high‐calorie, high‐protein intake diet. He showed a diabetic pattern with a normal insulin response on an oral glucose tolerance test carried out with the urine glucose screening program at schools. He showed a large total fat area of 239.4 cm2; in particular, his visceral fat area was 103.0 cm2 with a high ratio of visceral fat area to subcutaneous fat area (0.76). The present case might show that insulin resistance, possibly as a result of accumulation of a great amount of visceral fat, might be attributed to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes in children born small‐for‐gestational age.
Youth Mental Health First‐Aid: Juvenile Justice Staff Training to Assist Youth with Mental Health Concerns
Authors: Anderson Robert , Treger Jennifer , Lucksted Alicia
Published: March 2020

Many youth in juvenile justice settings meet criteria for a mental health condition. Front line staff need to be able to recognize and respond to their needs, but training is often lacking. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) is an 8‐hour training for adults without mental health education to recognize and assist distressed youth. This study surveyed 1,279 [State blinded] DJS front‐line staff trained in YMHFA. Of 338 returned surveys (26% response), 44% reported using YMHFA skills at work, 56% in preventing a crisis, 25% during crises. Respondents rated YMHFA as significantly improving their responsiveness to distressed young people.
Comparing floodplain evolution in channelized and unchannelized urban watersheds in Houston, Texas
Authors: Juan Andrew , Gori Avantika , Sebastian Antonia
Published: March 2020

In this study, we compare the ability of two riverine flood control approaches: channelization and stream preservation/setbacks, to alleviate the adverse impacts of rapid urbanization. To study the effects of structural intervention and urban development on the evolution of the floodplain, we have chosen two neighboring urban watersheds in Houston, TX: Brays Bayou and Buffalo Bayou. While the two watersheds are similar in size, topography, and development level, they have contrasting riverine flood management approaches. Brays Bayou is channelized, whereas Buffalo Bayou remains mostly unchannelized. We use the distributed hydrologic model, Vflo®, and the hydraulic model, HEC‐RAS, to analyze channel hydraulics and floodplain extent in the two watersheds under the 10‐ and 100‐year rainfall scenarios at three points in time: 1970s (early development), 2011 (current development), and 2040 (future development). We find that, while floodplain extent in both watersheds increases over time, the relative change in floodplain extent for Brays Bayou (channelized) is substantially larger than that for Buffalo Bayou (unchannelized). The results in this study contribute to a better understanding of the long‐term performance of two flood mitigation approaches (channelization and setbacks) on riverine flood risk and provide insight into best management practices for cities experiencing rapid urban growth.
An observational cohort study of numbers and causes of preventable general hospital admissions in people with and without intellectual disabilities in England
Authors: Glover G. , Williams R. , Oyinlola J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Hospital admissions for preventable reasons [ambulatory care sensitive (ACS) conditions] can indicate gaps in access to or quality of primary care. This paper seeks to document the numbers and causes of these admissions in England for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) compared with those without.

Methods

Observational cohort study of number and duration of emergency admitted patient episodes for ACS conditions, overall and by cause, using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD primary care database and the linked Hospital Episode Statistics Admitted Patient Care dataset.

Results

The study covered 5.2% of the population of England from April 2010 to March 2014 giving a total population base of 59 280 person‐years for people with ID and 11 103 910 for people without identified ID. The rate of emergency admissions for ACS conditions for people with ID was 77.5 per 1000 person‐years. As a crude comparison, this was 3.0 times the rate for those without ID, but standardising for the distinct demography of this group, the number of episodes was 4.8 times that expected if they had the same age‐specific and sex‐specific rates. Stay durations for these episodes were longer for both young‐age and working‐age people with ID. Overall people with ID used 399.8 bed‐days per 1000 person‐years. As a crude comparison, this is 2.8 times the figure for people without ID. Standardising for their age and sex profile, it is 5.4 times the number expected if they had the same age‐specific and sex‐specific rates. For patients with ID, 16.6% (one in six) of all admitted patient episodes and 24.3% (one in four) of in‐patient care days for people with ID were for ACS conditions. Corresponding figures for those without ID were 8.3% (one in 12) and 14.4% (one in seven). The difference in rates between those with and without ID was most marked in people of working age. The three most common causes of emergency episodes for ACS conditions in people with ID were convulsions and epilepsy, influenza pneumonia and aspiration pneumonitis. Influenza pneumonia was also a common cause for people without ID. Episodes for convulsions and epilepsy and aspiration pneumonitis were specifically associated with people with ID.

Conclusions

Rates of hospital admissions for ACS conditions provide an important indicator of health literacy, basic self‐care (or support by carers) and the accessibility of primary care. High rates are seen for some conditions specifically associated with premature death in people with ID. Local monitoring of these figures could be used to indicate the effectiveness of local primary health services in providing support to people with ID.
Ice Melting Can Change DMSP Production and Photosynthetic Activity of the Haptophyte Phaeocystis antarctica1
Authors: Kameyama Sohiko , Otomaru Maki , McMinn Andrew , Suzuki Koji
Published: March 2020

Phaeocystis antarctica is an important primary producer in the Southern Ocean and plays roles in sulfur cycles through intracellular production of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a principal precursor of dimethyl sulfide (DMS). Haptophytes, including P. antarctica, are known to produce more DMSP than other phytoplankton groups such as diatoms and green algae, suggesting their important contribution to DMS concentrations in the Southern Ocean. We assessed how sea ice formation and melting affect photosynthesis and DMSP accumulation in P. antarctica both in seawater and in sea ice. Incubations were undertaken in an ice tank, which simulated sea ice formation and melting dynamics. The maximum quantum yield of photochemistry (Fv/Fm) in photosystem II, as estimated from pulse‐amplitude‐modulated (PAM) fluorometry, was generally higher under low‐light conditions than high‐light conditions. Values of Fv/Fm, the relative maximum electron rate (rETRmax), and photosynthetic efficiency (α) were lower in sea ice than in seawater, implying reduced photosynthetic function inside the sea ice. The reduction in photosynthetic function was probably due to the hypersaline environment in the brine channels. Total DMSP (DMSPt) concentration normalized by chlorophyll‐a concentration was significantly higher in the sea ice than in the other environments, suggesting high accumulation of DMSP, probably due to its osmotic properties. Fv/Fm, specific growth rate, and DMSPt concentrations decreased with decreasing salinity with the lowest values found at a salinity of 22, that is, the lowest salinity tested. These results suggest that sea ice melting is responsible for a reduction in growth rate and DMSP production of P. antarctica.
Weda, a new genus with two new species of Euphorbiaceae‐Crotonoideae from Halmahera (North Maluku, Indonesia) and phylogenetic relationships of the Australasian tribe Ricinocarpeae
Authors: van Welzen Peter C. , Arias Guerrero Susana , Arifiani Deby , Bangun Tjut J.F. , Bouman Roderick W. , Eurlings Marcel C.M. , Gushilman Iska , Phillipson Peter B. , Tabak Iris , Winkel Esmée , Wurdack Kenneth J.
Published: March 2020

During the environmental impact study for a proposed nickel mine near Weda Bay on Halmahera in North Moluccas (Maluku Utara Province), Indonesia, two unknown Euphorbiaceae were discovered. Morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses using four markers (plastid trnL‐F and rbcL, and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer and external transcribed spacer) indicated that they should be recognized as constituting a new, distinct genus of two species, which are described and illustrated here as Weda fragarioides and Weda lutea. The new taxa are members of the Australasian tribe Ricinocarpeae in subfamily Crotonoideae, and they are most closely related to Alphandia. In contrast with the otherwise mostly sclerophyllous Ricinocarpeae, Weda possesses stellate to dendritic hairs, large, long‐petiolate, glandular leaves, and inflorescences with a pair of large, leafy, subopposite bracts. The two narrowly distributed species are distinguished from each other by vegetative and floral features, molecular data, and elevational preferences. Leaf elemental analysis of Weda indicated manganese, but not nickel, accumulation. Newly resolved generic relationships and potential morphological synapomorphies within Crotonoideae are discussed, and the circumscription of Ricinocarpeae is expanded from 7 to 11 genera.
Prevalence and short‐term outcome of acute kidney injury in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Jiang Weiyun , Hu Yechao , Sun Yan , Shen Yueli , Xun Yunhao
Published: March 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a distinct syndrome to that in patients with cirrhosis, yet is less characterized. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to investigate the impact of AKI on outcome of ACLF. We searched PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library for original articles that evaluated the impact of AKI on outcome of ACLF from 2011 to 2019. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for 1‐month and 3‐month mortality was calculated. The response rate of vasoconstrictor for hepatorenal syndrome (HRS)‐AKI was assessed. Eight relevant articles with 3610 patients were included. The prevalence of AKI in ACLF patients was 41% (95% CI 32%‐50%). The presence of AKI was significantly associated with 1‐month mortality of ACLF (OR 3.98, 95% CI 3.09‐5.12; P < .001) and 3‐month mortality (OR 4.98, 95% CI 3.59‐6.92; P < .001). Additionally, patients with AKI stage ≥2 showed a higher 3‐month mortality than stage 1 (OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.60‐5.82; P < .001), and those of stage 3 had a higher mortality than stage ≤2 (OR 3.77, 95% CI 2.10‐6.77; P < .001). The pooled response rate of vasoconstrictors was 32% (95% CI 26%‐37%). This meta‐analysis indicated that about 40% of ACLF patients complicated with AKI and the presence of AKI substantially increased the short‐term mortality, together with a poor response rate of vasoconstrictors for HRS‐AKI.
Breastfeeding beliefs and experiences of African immigrant mothers in high‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Odeniyi Adefisayo O. , Embleton Nicholas , Ngongalah Lem , Akor Wanwuri , Rankin Judith
Published: March 2020

Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for the healthy growth of infants and is associated with reduced risks of infectious diseases, child and adult obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Migration has been shown to influence breastfeeding especially among migrants from low‐and‐middle‐income countries. This mixed‐methods systematic review aimed to identify, synthesise, and appraise the international literature on the breastfeeding knowledge and experiences of African immigrant mothers residing in high‐income countries. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge databases were searched from their inception to February 2019. Grey literature, reference, and citation searches were carried out and relevant journals hand‐searched. Data extraction and quality assessment were independently carried out by two reviewers. An integrated mixed‐methods approach adopting elements of framework synthesis was used to synthesise findings. The initial searches recovered 8,841 papers, and 35 studies were included in the review. Five concepts emerged from the data: (a) breastfeeding practices, showing that 90% of African mothers initiated breastfeeding; (b) knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes, which were mostly positive but included a desire for bigger babies; (c) influence of socio‐demographic, economic, and cultural factors, leading to early supplementation; (d) support system influencing breastfeeding rates and duration; and (e) perception of health professionals who struggled to offer support due to culture and language barriers. African immigrant mothers were positive about breastfeeding and willing to adopt best practice but faced challenges with cultural beliefs and lifestyle changes after migration. African mothers may benefit from more tailored support and information to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates.
Association of vitamin D supplementation with respiratory tract infection in infants
Authors: Hong Miao , Xiong Ting , Huang Junmei , Wu Yuanjue , Lin Lixia , Zhang Zhen , Huang Li , Gao Duan , Wang Huanzhuo , Kang Chun , Gao Qin , Yang Xuefeng , Yang Nianhong , Hao Liping
Published: March 2020

Vitamin D deficiency has been reported to be associated with respiratory tract infection (RTI). However, evidence regarding the effects of vitamin D supplementation on susceptibility of infants to RTI is limited. In this prospective birth cohort study, we examined whether vitamin D supplementation reduced RTI risk in 2,244 infants completing the follow‐up from birth to 6 months of age. The outcome endpoint was the first episode of paediatrician‐diagnosed RTI or 6 months of age when no RTI event occurred. Infants receiving vitamin D supplements at a daily dose of 400–600 IU from birth to the outcome endpoint were defined as vitamin D supplementation and divided into four groups according to the average frequency of supplementation: 0, 1–2, 3–4, and 5–7 days/week. We evaluated the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and time to the first episode of RTI with Kaplan–Meier plots. The associations of vitamin D supplementation with infant RTI, lower RTI (LRTI), and RTI‐related hospitalization were assessed using modified Poisson regression. The median time to first RTI episode was 60 days after birth (95% CI [60, 90]) for infants without supplementation and longer than 6 months of age for infants with supplementation (p < .001). We observed inverse trends between supplementation frequency and risk of RTI, LRTI, and RTI‐related hospitalization (p for trend < .001), with the risk ratios in the 5–7 days/week supplementation group of 0.46 (95% CI [0.41, 0.50]), 0.17 (95% CI [0.13, 0.24]), and 0.18 (95% CI [0.12, 0.27]), respectively. These associations were significant and consistent in a subgroup analysis stratified by infant feeding.
Blue light induces major changes in the gene expression profile of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Luimstra Veerle M. , Schuurmans J. Merijn , Hellingwerf Klaas J. , Matthijs Hans C. P. , Huisman Jef
Published: March 2020

Although cyanobacteria absorb blue light, they use it less efficiently for photosynthesis than other colors absorbed by their photosynthetic pigments. A plausible explanation for this enigmatic phenomenon is that blue light is not absorbed by phycobilisomes and, hence, causes an excitation shortage at photosystem II (PSII). This hypothesis is supported by recent physiological studies, but a comprehensive understanding of the underlying changes in gene expression is still lacking. In this study, we investigate how a switch from artificial white light to blue, orange or red light affects the transcriptome of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. In total, 145 genes were significantly regulated in response to blue light, whereas only a few genes responded to orange and red light. In particular, genes encoding the D1 and D2 proteins of PSII, the PSII chlorophyll‐binding protein CP47 and genes involved in PSII repair were upregulated in blue light, whereas none of the photosystem I (PSI) genes responded to blue light. These changes were accompanied by a decreasing PSI:PSII ratio. Furthermore, many genes involved in gene transcription and translation and several ATP synthase genes were transiently downregulated, concurrent with a temporarily decreased growth rate in blue light. After 6–7 days, when cell densities had strongly declined, the growth rate recovered and the expression of these growth‐related genes returned to initial levels. Hence, blue light induces major changes in the transcriptome of cyanobacteria, in an attempt to increase the photosynthetic activity of PSII and cope with the adverse growth conditions imposed by blue light.
Humanistic caring, a nursing competency: modelling a metamorphosis from students to accomplished nurses
Authors: Létourneau Dimitri , Goudreau Johanne , Cara Chantal
Published: March 2020

Background

Most nursing regulatory bodies expect nurses to learn to be humanistic and caring. However, the learning process and the developmental stages of this competency remain poorly documented in the nursing literature.

Methods

The study used interpretive phenomenology, and 26 participants (students and nurses) were individually interviewed. Benner's (1994) method was adapted and concretised into a five‐phase phenomenological analysis to assist with intergroup comparisons.

Results

Critical milestones and developmental indicators were identified for each of the five stages of the ‘humanistic caring’ competency. Satisfaction and meaning at work seemed closely connected to the development of ‘humanistic caring’. Links emerged between the development of ‘humanistic caring’ and three other competencies.

Conclusions

Nurse educators might insist on the fact that ‘humanistic caring’ goes beyond nurse–patient communication and that it is integrated in nursing care. The findings highlight that nurses' working conditions should be improved in order to uphold humanistic caring after graduation.
Light controls stamen elongation via cryptochromes, phytochromes and COP1 through HY5 and HYH
Authors: Marzi Davide , Brunetti Patrizia , Mele Giovanni , Napoli Nadia , Calò Lorenzo , Spaziani Erica , Matsui Minami , De Panfilis Simone , Costantino Paolo , Serino Giovanna , Cardarelli Maura
Published: March 2020

In Arabidopsis, stamen elongation, which ensures male fertility, is controlled by the auxin response factor ARF8, which regulates the expression of the auxin repressor IAA19. Here, we uncover a role for light in controlling stamen elongation. By an extensive genetic and molecular analysis we show that the repressor of light signaling COP1, through its targets HY5 and HYH, controls stamen elongation, and that HY5 – oppositely to ARF8 – directly represses the expression of IAA19 in stamens. In addition, we show that in closed flower buds, when light is shielded by sepals and petals, the blue light receptors CRY1/CRY2 repress stamen elongation. Coherently, at flower disclosure and in subsequent stages, stamen elongation is repressed by the red and far‐red light receptors PHYA/PHYB. In conclusion, different light qualities – sequentially perceived by specific photoreceptors – and the downstream COP1–HY5/HYH module finely tune auxin‐induced stamen elongation and thus male fertility.
Parameter Identification of Fractional Order Systems Using a Collocation Method Based on Hybrid Functions
Authors: Lu Y. , Zhang J. , Tang Y. G.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we propose a novel collocation method based on hybrid functions to identify the parameters and differential orders of fractional order systems (FOS). The hybrid functions consist of block-pulse functions and Taylor polynomials. The analytical form of Riemann–Liouville fractional order integral operator of these hybrid functions is derived using the Laplace transform. Then the integral operator is utilized, in conjunction with collocation points, to convert the FOS into an algebraic system directly. The parameters and differential orders of the FOS are estimated by minimizing the error between the output of the actual system and that of the estimated system. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified through four examples.
Forced Convection Heat Transfer From a Particle at Small and Large Peclet Numbers
Authors: Dehdashti Esmaeil , Masoud Hassan
Published: March 2020

We theoretically study forced convection heat transfer from a single particle in uniform laminar flows. Asymptotic limits of small and large Peclet numbers Pe are considered. For Pe≪1 (diffusion-dominated regime) and a constant heat flux boundary condition on the surface of the particle, we derive a closed-form expression for the heat transfer coefficient that is valid for arbitrary particle shapes and Reynolds numbers, as long as the flow is incompressible. Remarkably, our formula for the average Nusselt number Nu has an identical form to the one obtained by Brenner for a uniform temperature boundary condition (Chem. Eng. Sci., vol. 18, 1963, pp. 109–122). We also present a framework for calculating the average Nu of axisymmetric and two-dimensional (2D) objects with a constant heat flux surface condition in the limits of Pe≫1 and small or moderate Reynolds numbers. Specific results are presented for the heat transfer from spheroidal particles in Stokes flow.
Additive Manufacturing of Polymer-Metal/Ceramic Functionally Graded Composite Components via Multiple Material Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Chueh Yuan-Hui , Zhang Xiaoji , Wei Chao , Sun Zhe , Li Lin
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the printing of 3D functionally graded polymer/metal, polymer/ceramic composite components via an ultrasonic vibration-assisted laser-based multiple material powder bed fusion (PBF) is reported. Components consisted of various polymer composites with different compositions according to design was realized. High concentrations (up to 90%) of solid particle additives, including soda-lime glass, aluminum oxide, and copper powders, were mixed with the polymer and printed, which was difficult or impossible to realize using conventional injection molding or standard fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing. Effects of laser melting/sintering parameters and manufacturing strategy of each type of polymeric composite were investigated. A successful delivery of very difficult-to-feed fine powder mixtures such as PA11/Al2O3 with irregular powder geometry via a new configuration of ultrasonic feeding was demonstrated. Three examples of 3D functionally graded components (part of a shoe sole, a turbine blade, and components of a ball bearing) were printed to illustrate the potential applications of the method.
Numerical Simulation of Liquid Droplet Coalescence and Breakup
Authors: Yuan Shuxia , Dabirian Ramin , Shoham Ovadia , Mohan Ram S.
Published: March 2020

This paper studied the evolution of binary droplet collision in liquid and also a mathematical calculation method of coalescence time. Binary droplet collisions occur in many engineering applications; however, the accurate models to predict the collision of droplets in the liquid are still lacking. In this work, the binary collision processes of droplets were simulated through computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method, where the interfaces between the two phases were tracked by the volume of fluid (VOF) approach. The results reveal that Weber number determines the results of the head-on collisions, and the cases with the same Weber number present similar evolution processes. If coalescence happens, the collision time decreases with increase in relative velocity, whereas the shape recovery time is independent with the relative velocity, but depends on droplet diameter. It is derived from this research that the collision time is proportional to the droplet diameter, and the shape recovery time is proportional to the 3/2 power of droplet diameter. The droplet moving directions play an important role in the collision results, and the case of two droplets moving toward each other with equal velocity is the easiest way to coalesce. When two droplets with different sizes collide, besides relative velocity, the coalescence and breakup are determined by the absolute velocities, the size, and size ratio of the two droplets. The increase in viscosity of continuous phase results an increase in collision time, but decrease in coalescence time.
New approach for an industrial low-temperature roll-to-roll CI(G)Se hybrid sputter coevaporation deposition process
Authors: Weinberger Nikolaus , Stock David , Kaufmann Christian Alexander , Kodalle Tim , Heinemann Marc D. , Huber Daniel , Harnisch Martina , Zimmermann Andreas , Strauss Georg N. , Lackner Roman
Published: March 2020

A new industrial approach for the production of CuInSe2 (CISe) absorber layers in a roll-to-roll process is described. This process is used by Sunplugged GmbH and combines magnetron sputtering with thermal coevaporation. A CISe-based device with a conversion efficiency of more than 10% has been fabricated from absorbers grown on polyimide at low temperature. The characteristic properties of a copper-poor ([Cu]/[In] = 0.73) CISe layer, deposited by Sunplugged's industrial process, are compared to those of a state-of-the-art, more copper-rich ([Cu]/[In] = 0.93) layer, grown in a molecular beam epitaxy system at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin. The presence of a so called vacancy-compound in low [Cu]/[In] CISe devices exhibiting an increased bandgap energy is visible by external quantum efficiency measurements, Raman scattering, and scaps simulations.