bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slipping on slippery slope arguments
Authors: Fumagalli Roberto
Published: March 2020

Slippery slope arguments (SSAs) are used in a wide range of philosophical debates, but are often dismissed as empirically ill‐founded and logically fallacious. In particular, leading authors put forward a meta‐SSA which points to instances of empirically ill‐founded and logically fallacious SSAs and to the alleged existence of a slippery slope leading to such SSAs to demonstrate that people should avoid using SSAs altogether. In this paper, I examine these prominent calls against using SSAs and argue that such calls do not withstand scrutiny. I then identify several types of mechanisms leading to slippery slopes in real‐life contexts to demonstrate that both the strength of SSAs and the justifiability of using SSAs are best assessed on a case‐by‐case basis. This result does not exempt the proponents of SSAs from the task of vindicating their use of SSAs. However, if correct, it undermines the often‐made claim that people should avoid using SSAs altogether.
Impact of graft‐versus‐host disease and graft‐versus‐leukemia effect based on minimal residual disease in Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Akahoshi Yu , Igarashi Aiko , Fukuda Takahiro , Uchida Naoyuki , Tanaka Masatsugu , Ozawa Yukiyasu , Kanda Yoshinobu , Onizuka Makoto , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Tanaka Junji , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kako Shinichi ,   the Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Working Group of the Japan Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Published: March 2020

The impacts of graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) and graft‐versus‐leukemia (GVL) effect might differ depending on minimal residual disease (MRD). Therefore, we examined 1,022 recipients who underwent their first allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph‐positive ALL) in first complete remission. MRD status at HSCT was negative in 791 (77·4%) and positive in 231 (22·6%). The impact of GVHD as a time‐dependent covariate on transplant outcomes were analyzed while adjusting for other possible variables. Mild acute GVHD [hazard ratio (HR), 0·90; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0·70–1·16; P = 0·901] and chronic GVHD (HR, 0·82, 95% CI, 0·58–1·14; P = 0·238) were not significantly associated with overall mortality, whereas severe acute GVHD (HR, 2·26, 95% CI, 1·64–3·11; P < 0·001) resulted in inferior overall survival due to high non‐relapse mortality. Moreover, even in the subgroup analyses stratified according to MRD status, acute and chronic GVHD were not significantly associated with better overall survival. Therefore, less intensive GVHD prophylaxis to achieve a GVL effect is not recommended for Ph‐positive ALL.
The combination of size‐based separation and selection‐free technology provides higher circulating tumour cells detection sensitivity than either method alone in patients with metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Dong Liang , Zhang Zhongyuan , Smith Kimberly , Kuczler Morgan D. , Reyes Diane , Amend Sarah R. , Cho Yoon‐Kyoung , Xue Wei , Pienta Kenneth J.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To investigate the circulating tumour cells (CTCs) capture abilities of two technologies that are not dependent on cell‐surface marker expression: a selection‐free platform [AccuCyte®‐CyteFinder® system (Rarecyte)] and a size‐based platform [fluid‐assisted separation technology (FAST)]. In addition, the combination of the two systems to more completely assess CTCs was investigated.

Patients and methods

In all, 28 patients with metastatic prostate cancer were included. Two 6 mL peripheral blood samples were taken from each patient at the same time‐point. The samples were then subjected to the two different technology platforms in parallel. An additional group of samples was acquired by applying the waste chamber material from the FAST‐group tests (flow‐through that goes through the FAST filter membrane) to the Rarecyte system for the detection any CTCs that were not captured by FAST.

Results

The three groups had significantly different putative CTC‐positive tests, with positive rates of 29% for Rarecyte, 57% for FAST, and 79% for the combination. We also assessed CTC phenotype: 56.6% of the CTCs were cytokeratin (CK)+/epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)−, 3.1% were CK−/EpCAM+, and 40.3% were CK+/EPCAM+. The captured CTCs diameter ranged from 5.2 to 16.9 µm. The mean CTC size from the FAST waste chamber was significantly smaller. The diameters for each of the phenotypic groups were significantly different.

Conclusions

These data highlight disparities in the positive rates and enumerated CTC numbers detected by the two techniques. Notably, the combination of the two technologies resulted in the highest CTC‐capture rates. Smaller CTCs were more likely to be missed by the FAST as they passed through the filter system. Sizes of CTCs varied with different cell surface marker phenotypes.
Experimenting with public sector innovation: Revisiting Gow for the digital era
Authors: Doberstein Carey , Charbonneau Étienne
Published: March 2020

In 1988, James Iain Gow surveyed public servants across Canada on how they access and utilize research from various sources and how that is linked to policy innovation. He documented this research in his book Learning from Others (1994). Thirty years later, we replicate selected parts of the original survey conducted by Gow, but also add an experimental dimension that tests how subjects respond to public service innovations from around the world. We randomly alter key features of those innovations to examine if public servants reveal patterns in the way they process these innovations and make judgements about their suitability or promise.
Co-occurrence of IgE and IgG autoantibodies in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Asero R , Marzano A V , Ferrucci S , Lorini M , Carbonelli V , Cugno M
Published: March 2020

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) pathogenesis shows a complex and still unclear interplay between immunoglobulin (Ig)G- and IgE-mediated autoimmunity, leading to mast cell and basophil degranulation and wheal formation. The objective of this study was to evaluate at the same time IgE- and IgG-reactivity to well recognized and recently reported autoantigens in CSU patients, and to assess the effects of such reactivity on response to the anti-IgE monoclonal antibody omalizumab. Twenty CSU patients underwent omalizumab treatment. Urticaria activity score 7 (UAS7) was recorded at baseline and at different drug administration time-points for categorizing early-, late- or non-responders. At baseline, sera from the 20 patients and from 20 controls were tested for IgE and IgG autoantibodies to high- and low-affinity IgE receptors (FcεRI and FcεRII), tissue factor (TF) and thyroglobulin (TG) by immunoenzymatic methods. Antibody levels were compared with those of controls and analysed according to response. Eighteen patients were omalizumab responders (11 early and seven late), while two were non-responders. More than 50% of patients had contemporary IgE and IgG to at least to one of the four different autoantigens. Late responders showed higher levels of both anti-TF IgE and IgG than early responders (P= 0·011 and P= 0·035, respectively). Twenty-five per cent of patients had levels of anti-FcεRI IgE, exceeding the upper normal limit, suggesting that it could be a novel auto-allergen in CSU. In CSU, there is an autoimmune milieu characterized by the co-existence of IgE and IgG autoantibodies to the same antigen/allergen, particularly in late responders to omalizumab, possibly explaining the slower response.
Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus with positive anti‐Ro antibodies following palbociclib and letrozole treatment: A case report and literature review
Authors: Russell‐Goldman Eleanor , Nazarian Rosalynn M.
Published: March 2020

Drug‐induced subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (DI‐SCLE) is an uncommon but well‐described phenomenon, most often seen in association with antihypertensives and antifungal medications. In recent years, rare reports of DI‐SCLE have been described in patients being treated with targeted therapies. Herein, we describe a case of DI‐SCLE in association with palbociclib and letrozole treatment for metastatic breast cancer. This report is the first known case of DI‐SCLE with positive anti‐Ro antibodies in this setting. We also summarize the literature describing DI‐SCLE in association with targeted therapies to date and its possible association with dysregulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway.
Non‐motor symptoms in movement disorders: more than meets the eye
Authors: Vigevano Federico
Published: March 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Uchitel et al. on pages 820–826 of this issue.
Clinical validity of self‐rated oral health among New Zealand nursing home residents
Authors: Lundbeck Heather J. , Smith Moira B. , Thomson William M.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate the clinical validity of self‐rated oral health among older New Zealanders in aged residential care.

Material and methods

A national survey of oral health in aged residential care was carried out throughout New Zealand. Self‐rated oral health was measured using Locker's global item and clinical examinations carried out by calibrated examiners. Analyses used survey weights.

Results

Consistent gradients were observed across the self‐rated oral health categories in the mean number of decayed teeth (whether coronal or root surface caries), mean number of filled teeth (albeit in the opposite direction), and in the mean number of fillings needed. Consistent gradients were also seen in the same categories when comparing the current oral health status to their oral health status a year previous. No gradients in periodontal status were apparent.

Conclusions

The older population in aged residential care can validly self‐rate their oral health, although further investigation of periodontal status is warranted.
Caregivers’ perceptions towards oral healthcare services for elders living in Malaysian nursing homes—A qualitative study
Authors: Letchumanan Devanthiran , Mohamad Norpi Nuratiqah , Yusof Zamros Yuzadi Mohd , Razak Ishak Abdul , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty , Abdullah Nurrul Ashikin , Ramalingam Sheila Rani , Yacob Habibah , Abduludin Datu Mohd Amyril , Azmi Lily Laura , Abas Nurul Asniza , Lian Yaw Siew , Shamdol Zainab , Ishak Fatimah Arusah , Ismail Noor Aliyah , Abd Muttalib Khairiyah
Published: March 2020

Objective

To assess the perceptions of caregivers towards oral healthcare services received by elders in Malaysian nursing homes and to identify challenges and suggestions for improvement.

Background

Caregivers play an important role in the oral health care of elders in nursing homes.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative approach using the nominal group technique (NGT) to obtain caregivers’ feedback in nursing homes in Malaysia. Data were manually transcribed, summarised into keywords/key phrases, and ranked using weighted scores.

Results

In total, 36 caregivers (21 from government and 15 from private nursing homes) participated in the NGT sessions. Overall, caregivers were satisfied with the low treatment cost, the quality of treatment, and the availability of dental visits to nursing homes. Caregivers were dissatisfied with the frequency of dental visits, long waiting times at government dental clinics, and inadequate denture hygiene education for elders in nursing homes. The challenges faced by caregivers were elders’ poor oral health knowledge and attitude and lack of elders’ trust of caregivers to look after their oral health. Suggestions for improvement were to increase the frequency of dental visits to nursing homes, provide oral health education to elders and caregivers, and give treatment priority to elders at dental clinics.

Conclusion

Despite being satisfied with the basic oral healthcare services received by elders in Malaysian nursing homes, caregivers raised some issues that required further attention. Suggestions for improvement include policy changes in nursing home dental visits and treatment priority for elders at government dental clinics.
Effects of feeding level of alfalfa hay on nitrogen utilization for 1‐kg daily gain of crossbred Simmental male calves
Authors: Kobayashi Nobuyuki , Hou Fujiang , Tsunekawa Atsushi , Chen Xianjiang , Yan Tianhai , Ichinohe Toshiyoshi
Published: March 2020

In Gansu Province, a key beef cattle production area in China, feeding systems are changing from grazing to stall‐feeding. To reduce production costs, alternative feeding regimens with domestic forages, such as alfalfa hay (AH), are needed. We evaluated the effects of the AH feeding level on nitrogen balance and daily gain (DG) of Simmental calves by two feeding trials. In trial 1, when AH was consumed at 0%–19% of total dry matter intake, no clear effect of AH intake on metabolizable‐protein supply and DG was observed. In trial 2, when more concentrate feed was fed than in trial 1, metabolizable‐protein supply and nitrogen retention increased as the AH consumption rate increased (0%–38% of total intake); these effects appeared to be related to the DG increase. Our results suggest that AH inclusion in concentrate‐based diets increases the metabolizable‐protein supply for the optimal DG of growing beef calves.
Evaluation of agronomic performance and exploratory genome‐wide association study of a diverse oat panel for forage use in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Chung‐Wen , Liang Wei‐Hong , Esvelt Klos Kathy , Chen Chia‐Sheng , Huang Yung‐Fen
Published: March 2020

Oats (Avena sativa L.) produce not only the well‐known highly nutritious grain, but valuable forage. In Taiwan, imported oat hay is a popular forage with the dairy cattle industry. However, local forage oat breeding and production have been virtually absent. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the forage performance of oats in Taiwan in order to assess their potential for local oat production. We have introduced 178 oat accessions from 18 breeding programs across North and South America. These breeding lines were evaluated in Northern Taiwan (Taipei) and Southern Taiwan (Hengchun) between autumn 2016 and spring 2017. Early maturing lines reached the flowering stage after ca. 70 or ca. 90 days after sowing in Hengchun and Taipei, respectively, while 49 and 159 lines remained vegetative throughout the growing season in Hengchun and Taipei, respectively. On average, plant height was taller in Taipei than in Hengchun (99.8 vs. 53.2 cm), while dry matter yield per plot was higher in Hengchun than in Taipei (596 vs. 388.4 g/Plot). Maturity and dry matter differences may be related to the differences in daily effective sunlight between locations. Using 1,164 genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we explored the population structure and the genetic architecture of traits of interest within a subset of 73 oat lines. No obvious sub‐populations were observed, which reflected the frequent material exchanges among oat breeders. Fifty‐three loci were associated with days to flowering, plant height and dry matter yield; and 12 of them overlapped with loci identified in previous work. The data and results of this study lay the foundations and provide guidelines for further forage oat breeding work in Taiwan.
Sphingolipid identification and skin barrier recovery capacity of a milk sphingolipid‐enriched fraction (MSEF) from buttermilk powder
Authors: Lee K. , Kim S. , Kim A. , Suh H.J. , Hong K.‐B.
Published: March 2020

Objective

In this study, we isolated the milk sphingolipid‐enriched fraction (MSEF) of sweet buttermilk powder and conducted a clinical trial for evaluating its efficacy in skin barrier recovery.

Methods

Milk sphingolipid‐enriched fraction was isolated via solvent extraction of buttermilk powder, and further concentrated by removing the phospholipids and neutral lipids. A cream containing 1% MSEF was used during clinical trials to assess for water holding and skin barrier recovery capacities.

Results

The main components of the MSEF were sphingomyelin, glucosylceramide and lactosylceramide, confirmed by TLC, HPLC, MS and NMR. The MSEF cream‐treated group had a significantly higher (P < 0.05) water holding capacity, compared with the base cream (vehicle) group. Compared with that in the base cream group, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) recovery increased in the presence of the sphingolipid‐containing MSEF cream (MSEF group), with a significant difference (P < 0.05) recorded on day 14.

Conclusion

The MSEF cream contributed to improving the water holding capacity and skin barrier recovery of damaged skin. Therefore, sphingolipid‐containing MSEF can be useful for strengthening or repairing skin barrier function.
Prevalence and characteristics of post‐colonoscopy colorectal cancers in a New Zealand regional centre: a 10‐year analysis
Authors: Willington Adam J. , Cosgrove Samuel , Davison Polly , Cunliffe Robert N.
Published: March 2020

Background

Post‐colonoscopy colorectal cancers (PCCRC) are cancers that appear following a colonoscopy in which no cancer is diagnosed. The occurrence of PCCRC is thought to be multifactorial, reflecting both endoscopy quality and potential differences in tumour biology between detected colorectal cancers and PCCRC.

Aim

To identify the prevalence and characteristics of PCCRC in a New Zealand regional centre over a 10‐year period.

Method

All cases of colorectal cancer (n = 1055) in the Bay of Plenty region between 1 February 2009 and 1 February 2019 were cross‐referenced with endoscopy coding records to identify patients who had undergone colonoscopy within the preceding 6–60 months in which cancer was not identified.

Results

A total of 46 patients were identified to have PCCRC, giving a prevalence of 4.4%. The majority of these patients were older (80% aged 65 years or over) and female (67%). The mean interval between index colonoscopy and diagnosis of PCCRC was 3.03 years. Most (80%) patients had existent pathology (diverticular disease or colonic polyps) at index colonoscopy, and a significant proportion (43%) developed cancer in the same colonic segment. PCCRC were evenly distributed between the left (50%) and right (50%) colon. The majority of patients (63%) had early‐stage cancer.

Conclusions

The prevalence of PCCRC in a New Zealand cohort is consistent with other international reports. Most patients with PCCRC are older, female and have early‐stage disease. Of interest, a high proportion of patients developed cancer within a colonic segment with existent pathology, suggesting either missed lesions or incomplete polyp resection.
Atomically thin hydroxylation boron nitride nanosheets for excellent water‐based lubricant additives
Authors: Bai Yufeng , Wang Lixia , Ge Chunhua , Liu Rui , Guan Hongyu , Zhang Xiangdong
Published: March 2020

Hexagonal Boron nitride (BN) can be used as a lubricant additive, which can dramatically reduce friction energy. However, due to the accumulation of BN in the water‐based lubricants and the difficulty of entering the friction contact area, the tribological performance of BN becomes worse. To address this issue, the atomically thin hydroxylated boron nitride nanosheets (HO‐BNNS) were successfully prepared. The thickness of HO‐BNNS is only 0.6‐0.8 nm. Meanwhile, the HO‐BNNS has excellent dispersion stability in water‐based lubricants because of the hydroxyl group on the surface of HO‐BNNS. The as‐prepared HO‐BNNS exhibits unique friction properties as a water‐based dispersible lubricant additive. Additionally, the average wear scar diameter, average friction coefficient, and mean wear volume of HO‐BNNS/water‐based (0.05 wt%) drop by about 64.7%, 60%, and 95.73%. Finally, the introduction of HO‐BNNS can well control the temperature of water‐based lubricant.
Have SFAS 166 and SFAS 167 improved the financial reporting for securitizations?
Authors: Ahn Minkwan , Bonsall Samuel B. , Bozanic Zahn , Dou Yiwei , Richardson Gordon , Vyas Dushyantkumar
Published: March 2020

Critics have alleged that securitization accounting prior to 2010 was among the causes of the recent financial crisis. In response to this criticism, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) implemented two new accounting standards, SFAS 166 and SFAS 167, to improve the financial reporting for securitizations. Bank regulators have stated their belief that SFAS 166/167 will result in a consolidated balance sheet (and risk‐based capital ratios based thereupon) that better reflects a bank's exposure to risk related to securitized assets. We document that, by ceding retained power or influence through the servicing/special servicing functions to third parties, SFAS 166/167 resulted in real effects to the extent that banks (particularly those that were weakly capitalized) achieved their accounting objectives in the post‐SFAS 166/167 period through legitimate transaction structuring in line with the intent of the new rules. Further, we use capital market participants’ assessments of risk retention by sponsoring banks as a benchmark, and provide evidence consistent with bank regulators’ beliefs. In particular, following SFAS 166/167, equity investors of sponsoring banks do not consider (consider) as risk relevant securitized assets that receive off‐balance sheet (on‐balance sheet) treatment. Securitized assets that are consolidated under SFAS 166/167 exhibit the same risk relevance as assets that are not securitized, despite contractual provisions that would seem to imply substantial risk transfer.
Different culture method changing CD105 expression in amniotic fluid MSCs without affecting differentiation ability or immune function
Authors: Wang Ding , Liu Nengqing , Xie Yingjun , Song Bing , Kong Shu , Sun Xiaofang
Published: March 2020

MSCs are kind of cultured cells that reside in different tissues as inducers or regulators of physiological and pathological processes. Here, we derived MSCs from amniotic fluid and compared their differentiation ability and immunosuppression effect on PHA‐activated PBMC with those of MSCs isolated from umbilical cords. Amniotic fluid MSCs were isolated and cultured on commercial AFC medium and classic MSC medium, and the number and size of colonies were used to evaluate differences in primary and passaged culture. Rate of proliferation, population doubling time, cell morphology, cell surface markers and mRNA expression were measured in subcultured cells. Furthermore, a comparative study was performed with umbilical cord MSCs to assess the ability of differentiation and immunosuppressive effect of PHA‐stimulated PBMCs. Amniotic fluid MSCs were isolated and expanded by three methods, and exhibited nearly all the characteristics of umbilical cord MSCs. Compared with umbilical cord MSCs, amniotic fluid MSCs had an enhanced osteogenic and chrondrogenic differentiation capability, and stronger immunosuppression effect of inhibition of PHA‐activated PBMC division. Culture with commercial AFCs medium yielded the highest percentage of CD105 expression and showed some advantages in primary cell isolation, cell source‐specific marker retention and cell proliferation. We demonstrated that amniotic fluid MSCs exhibited some advantages over umbilical cord MSCs, and different culture media caused cell proliferation, cell surface marker and cell morphology change, but were not associated with varying differentiation capability and immune effects.
SARI prevents ocular angiogenesis and inflammation in mice
Authors: Zhang Wenqiu , Dai Lei , Li Xun , Li Yiming , Hung Yap Maurice Keng , Liu Longqian , Deng Hongxin
Published: March 2020

SARI (Suppressor of AP‐1, regulated by IFN‐β) is known to play an important role in some systemic disease processes such an inflammatory conditions and cancer. We hypothesize that SARI may also play a role in ocular diseases involving inflammation and neovascularization. To explore our hypothesis, further, we investigated an endotoxin‐induced uveitis (EIU) and experimental argon laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model in SARI wild‐type (SARIWT) and SARI‐deficient (SARI−/−) mice. Through imaging, morphological and immunohistochemical (IHC) studies, we found that SARI deficiency exacerbated the growth of CNV. More VEGF‐positive cells were presented in the retina of SARI−/− mice with CNV. Compared to SARIWT mice, more inflammatory cells infiltrated the ocular anterior segment and posterior segments in SARI−/− mice with EIU. Collectively, the results point to a potential dual functional role of SARI in inflammatory ocular diseases, suggesting that SARI could be a potential therapy target for ocular inflammation and neovascularization.
Trajectories of healthcare utilization and costs of psychiatric and somatic multimorbidity in adults with childhood ADHD: a prospective register‐based study
Authors: Du Rietz Ebba , Jangmo Andreas , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Chang Zheng , D'Onofrio Brian M. , Ahnemark Ewa , Werner‐Kiechle Tamara , Larsson Henrik
Published: March 2020

Background

A better understanding of the trajectories and economic burden of psychiatric and somatic disorders (multimorbidity) in ADHD from childhood to adulthood is important for guiding more targeted areas for treatment of ADHD and prevention of multimorbidity, and for forecasting demands on the medical infrastructure. This study aimed to investigate patterns of healthcare utilization and costs of multimorbidity across young adulthood in individuals with a childhood ADHD diagnosis, and additionally in individuals who continue to have ADHD‐related contact with health services (persisters) and those who do not (remitters).

Methods

We prospectively followed a cohort (N = 445,790) born 1987–1990 from the ages of 18 to 26 years. Data on healthcare utilization were obtained from the Swedish National Patient Register (inpatient and outpatient care) and the Prescribed Drug Register (medication prescriptions).

Results

Mean annual costs per capita from multimorbidity was €890 ($1,223) in individuals with a childhood ADHD diagnosis (persisters/remitters: €1,060[$1,456]/€609[$837]) and €304 ($418) in individuals without. Costs were largely driven by inpatient hospital admissions, mainly from drug abuse and injuries. Healthcare utilization and costs of psychiatric and somatic disorders at 18 years was significantly higher in individuals with childhood ADHD compared to those without. These group differences remained stable or increased across young adulthood for most outcomes and were generally larger in women than in men. ADHD remitters continued to show significantly greater healthcare utilization and costs compared to individuals without childhood ADHD, although their profiles were not as severe as ADHD persisters.

Conclusions

Childhood ADHD has long‐term associations with both psychiatric and somatic disorders. Findings demonstrate the individual and societal burden of ADHD in adulthood and highlight the importance of continued support from childhood–adolescent to adult health services and early prevention of multimorbidity. Findings also point to specific targets for intervention that may be effective, such as drug abuse and injuries.
Therapeutic management of adults with atopic dermatitis: comparison with psoriasis and chronic urticaria
Authors: Pascal C. , Maucort‐Boulch D. , Gilibert S. , Bottigioli D. , Verdu V. , Jaulent C. , Hacard F. , Bérard F. , Nicolas J.‐F. , Nosbaum A.
Published: March 2020

Background

The therapeutic options in atopic dermatitis rely on consensus‐based guidelines, also established for psoriasis and chronic urticaria. However, the therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis, especially in the moderate‐to‐severe forms of the disease, seems less aggressive than in psoriasis and in chronic urticaria with a less frequent use of systemic agents.

Objectives

To compare in real‐life conditions the therapeutic management of adults with atopic dermatitis with those with psoriasis and chronic urticaria.

Methods

A transversal analysis was performed in May 2017, using retrospective data from a monocentric database. Data on epidemiology, severity, therapeutic educational intervention and systemic treatments were analysed from 401 patients with atopic dermatitis, compared with data from 230 patients with chronic urticaria and 535 patients with psoriasis.

Results

A high proportion (73%) of atopic dermatitis patients presented with a moderate‐to‐severe form of the disease compared to only 39% of chronic urticaria and 17% of psoriasis patients. Most of atopic dermatitis patients (78%) had completed a therapeutic educational programme, while the adherence was lower in chronic urticaria (35%) and in psoriasis (3%) patients. A systemic treatment, including biologicals, was recorded in 8% of atopic dermatitis patients, while it concerned 26% and 47% of chronic urticaria and psoriasis patients, respectively.

Conclusions

We confirmed that atopic dermatitis treatment mostly relies on topical treatments. Only a minority of moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis patients who are eligible for a systemic treatment receive such therapy. This may suggest promoting a more frequent use of systemic agents in moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis.
Malignant cutaneous tumours of the scalp: always remember to examine the head
Authors: Dika E. , Patrizi A. , Veronesi G. , Manuelpillai N. , Lambertini M.
Published: March 2020

Around 2% of cutaneous neoplasms arise in the scalp (scalp tumours: STs). They can be classified as primary STs (epithelial, melanocytic and adnexal) or metastatic (from distal tumours or as a spreading from contiguous structures). This anatomic location is usually poorly examined during dermatological consultations, also due to the presence of the hair cover. Moreover, self‐examination of the hair‐covered skin is often harder for the patient. The peculiar features of the scalp may explain the worse prognosis of STs compared with neoplasms of other locations. The hair coverage protects the scalp from UV radiations, but due to the complex pathogenesis of STs, they may also develop in younger patients. Until now, STs have been not extensively investigated in the dermatological literature, and most publications are written by otolaryngologists, or by head, neck and plastic surgeons. Thus, dermatologists above all have the opportunity and the task to explore the scalp carefully, with the opportunity to make an early diagnosis, possibly changing the patient's prognosis. The aim of this paper was to review the main STs in order to increase awareness among dermatology specialists.
Evidence for Zoonotic Potential of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Its First Molecular Characterization in Captive Mammals at Bangladesh National Zoo
Authors: Karim Md Robiul , Rume Farzana Islam , Rahman Abu Nasar Md Aminoor , Zhang Zhenjie , Li Junqiang , Zhang Longxian
Published: March 2020

To determine the occurrence and genotypes of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in captive mammals at Bangladesh National Zoo and to assess their zoonotic significance, 200 fecal samples from 32 mammalian species were examined using a nested PCR and sequencing of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was detected in 16.5% (33/200) of the samples. Seven different ITS genotypes were identified, including two known genotypes (D and J) and five new ones (BAN4 to BAN8). Genotype D was the most common genotype being observed in 19 isolates. In phylogenetic analysis, four genotypes (D, BAN4, BAN5, and BAN6), detected in 30 isolates (90.9%), belonged to Group 1 having zoonotic potential. The sequence of genotype J found in a Malayan pangolin was clustered in so‐called ruminant‐specific Group 2. The other two genotypes BAN7 and BAN8 were clustered in primate‐specific Group 5. To our knowledge, this is the first report of molecular characterization of E. bieneusi in Bangladesh, particularly in captive‐bred wildlife in this country. The potentially zoonotic genotypes of E. bieneusi are maintained in zoo mammals that may transmit among these animals and to the humans through environmental contamination or contact.
Kinetic modeling on quality parameters of raw Kelulut honey during dehydration process
Authors: Yap Shu Khang , Chin Nyuk Ling
Published: March 2020

Aims

The kinetics of Kelulut honey quality parameters of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), color intensity and total phenolic content (TPC) at dehydration temperatures of 40, 55, and 70°C up to 84 h were studied.

Methods

Data were fitted to zero‐, first‐, and second‐order kinetic models and regression analysis were performed to calculate rate constant and activation energy.

Result

HMF increased following zero‐ and first‐order kinetics for 40 and 55°C, respectively. However, at 70°C, HMF first increased following zero‐order kinetics, peaked at 60 h and then decreased following first‐order kinetics. The color intensity of honey increased with dehydration time and was adequately described by zero‐order kinetics. The increase of TPC at lower dehydration temperature of 40 and 55°C followed zero‐order kinetics but at higher temperature of 70°C, was better fitted with first‐order model.

Conclusions

The rate constants for all quality parameters increased with dehydration temperature, indicating that changes were more evident at higher temperature. The increase of TPC was found to be more evident due to its lower activation energy of 54.79 kJ/mol as compared to 104.1 and 63.16 kJ/mol for the increase of HMF and color intensity, respectively.
White Supremacy and the Web of Family Science: Implications of the Missing Spider
Authors: Walsdorf Ashley A. , Jordan Lorien S. , McGeorge Christi R. , Caughy Margaret O.
Published: March 2020

Family science is at the forefront of understanding the multiple and interconnected risk and protective factors (e.g., poverty vs. wealth, racism and discrimination, privilege) that affect families and the contexts in which they live. In this article, we use the metaphor of spider and web to suggest that family science theorizing is missing an integral piece of the puzzle—the designer of the contexts that have become the field's object of study and intervention (Krieger, 1994). Who or what is this designer? Recognizing that the answer is necessarily complex, we propose a metaphorical spider of insidious influence: White supremacy. Pairing understandings garnered from decades of critical theorizing with a review of the family science literature, we hypothesize about the web of causation and interrogate this culprit. Finally, we offer implications for the consciousness and intentional addition of White supremacy to family science theorizing and methods.
Nonablative fractional laser therapy for treatment of actinic keratosis with 3‐months follow‐up
Authors: Nourmohammad Pour Pedram , Esmaili Nafise , Ehsani Amirhooshang , Hamzelou Shahin , Nasimi Maryam
Published: March 2020

Background

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common skin disorder that is treated with different treatment modalities.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect of a 1540‐nm nonablative fractional laser on the AK.

Methods

Ten patients with 31 AK were included in the study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Treatment with nonablative fractional laser (1540 nm) 3 times at 4 weeks intervals in a noncontact mode was applied. Clinical severity was assessed at each session and 3 months after the last session. It is pertinent to mention that the patients were also involved in the assessment of improvement.

Results

The results of present study showed that in comparison to the baseline, 3‐session AK therapy with nonablative fractional laser significantly not only improved the AK severity by 79%, but also reduced the AK counts (from 31 to 17). On the other hand, the patients consented to the therapeutic effect.

Conclusion

According to the obtained results and available studies, it seems that therapy with a 1540‐nm nonablative fractional laser could be considered as a safe and effective alternative therapeutic option for the treatment of AK.
Distribution of temporomandibular disorders among sleep bruxers and non‐bruxers—A polysomnographic study
Authors: Wieckiewicz Mieszko , Smardz Joanna , Martynowicz Helena , Wojakowska Anna , Mazur Grzegorz , Winocur Efraim
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Bruxism is often indicated as a risk factor for the occurrence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Despite the frequent co‐occurrence of bruxism and TMD, the exact relationship between these phenomena has not been thoroughly explained, and their causal relationship is still considered controversial.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of TMD among sleep bruxers and non‐bruxers.

Materials and methods

The participants of this study were 77 patients of the Clinic of Prosthetic Dentistry operating at the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Wroclaw Medical University who had been diagnosed with TMD and probable sleep bruxism. Patients underwent video‐polysomnography to assess the intensity of sleep bruxism using the Bruxism Episode Index (BEI).

Results

The following TMD diagnoses were made: local myalgia, temporal tendonitis, myofascial pain, myofascial pain with referral, hypertrophy, osteoarthrosis, disc displacement with reduction, disc displacement without reduction with limited opening, subluxation, adhesions/adherence, arthralgia, headache attributed to TMD and oromandibular dystonia. None of these occurred statistically significantly more often in the studied group (bruxers; BEI ≥ 2) than in the control group (non‐bruxers; BEI < 2); (P > .05 for all comparisons).

Conclusion

The distribution of TMD among sleep bruxers and non‐bruxers is similar. Therefore, the prevalence of sleep bruxism seems not to be a certain risk factor for TMD occurrence.
Content and construct validity of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders Axis I for children
Authors: Restrepo Claudia C. , Suarez Natasha , Moratto Nadia , Manrique Rubén
Published: March 2020

Objective

To perform the content and construct validation of the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) Axis I, for children 7‐11 years old.

Materials and Methods

A Delphi process was used to perform the content validity of the DC/TMD Axis I. One hundred eighty‐nine 7‐ to 11‐year‐old children were assessed with the adapted instrument. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to investigate construct validity of the DC/TMD for children. A baseline one‐factor model was compared against a two‐factor (Model 2) and a seven‐factor (Model 3) models based on the original DC/TMD. Root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA), comparative fit index (CFI), chi‐square, change in chi‐square and Cronbach's α were used to analyse the data. All analyses were performed in STATA© version 13.0.

Results

Items of the DC/TMD were reduced, “history time” was changed to 2 weeks, pain intensity was assessed through a face scale, and language was adapted to be better understood by children. The amount of muscle pressure was maintained as in the original DC/TMD Axis I. The CFA led to a two‐ and a seven‐factor model, with good fit. The internal consistency of Model 2 was .91 and of Model 3, .94.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide evidence to support a seven‐factor representation of the DC/TMD Axis I for 7‐ to 11‐year‐old children, as well as a two‐factor structure. Such findings will begin to provide researchers with confidence in the properties of this instrument when considering its inclusion in clinical research.
Emotion Regulation and Middle School Adjustment in Japanese Girls: Mediation by Perceived Social Support
Authors: Kitahara Yuri , Mearns Jack , Shimoyama Haruhiko
Published: March 2020

Prior research has stated that successful emotion regulation (ER) contributes to psychological health and favorable interpersonal relationships. However, few studies have explored adaptive ER strategies in a school setting. The present study targeted Japanese female adolescents and examined the relationship between two specific ER strategies (reappraisal and suppression) and school adjustment, with social support as a mediating variable. Two hundred and seventy Japanese middle school girls completed measures of ER, perceived social support, and subjective school adjustment. The results showed that school adjustment was highest among reappraisers, followed by a balanced group who used both strategies with equal frequency, then suppressors. In addition, reappraisal showed both direct and indirect effects on school adjustment, while suppression showed only a negative indirect effect on school adjustment. Our findings suggest that reappraisal is an effective strategy that promotes receiving social support and consequently enhances school adjustment. Suppression, on the other hand, has neither favorable nor harmful impacts on school adjustment, but may, in the long run, result in poorer adjustment by impairing social relationships among adolescent girls.
Performance and welfare of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. post‐smolts in recirculating aquaculture systems: Importance of salinity and water velocity
Authors: Ytrestøyl Trine , Takle Harald , Kolarevic Jelena , Calabrese Sara , Timmerhaus Gerrit , Rosseland Bjørn O. , Teien Hans C. , Nilsen Tom O. , Handeland Sigurd O. , Stefansson Sigurd O. , Ebbesson Lars O. E. , Terjesen Bendik F.
Published: March 2020

Producing a larger post‐smolt in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) could shorten the production time in sea cages and potentially reduce mortality. Knowledge of the biological requirements of post‐smolts in closed‐containment systems is however lacking. In the present study, the effects of salinity and water velocity on growth, survival, health, and welfare of Atlantic salmon reared in RAS were examined. Salmon smolts were stocked in three separate RAS with salinities of 12, 22, and 32‰ and subjected to high (1.0 body lengths per s−1) or low (0.3 body lengths second−1) water velocity. Growth performance, survival, welfare, and physiological stress responses were monitored until the fish reached a bodyweight of around 450 g. Growth rate was higher at lower salinity and higher water velocity generally had a positive effect on growth in all salinities. Feed conversion ratio was lower at 12‰ compared to the 22 and 32‰ when the fish were between 250 and 450 g. Higher mortality, elevated plasma cortisol levels, higher incidence of cataract, and a higher expression of stress‐induced genes in the skin (iNOS, Muc5ac‐like) indicated a negative effect of higher salinity on fish welfare. Male maturation was low (<1%), and not affected by salinity or water velocity.
Acceptability and feasibility of insect consumption among pregnant women in Liberia
Authors: Coley Katrina M. , Perosky Joseph E. , Nyanplu Aloysius , Kofa Alphonso , Anankware Jacob P. , Moyer Cheryl A. , Lori Jody R.
Published: March 2020

Maternity waiting homes (MWHs) in Liberia promote facility‐based delivery to reduce maternal mortality. However, women often must bring their own food and supplies to MWHs, which makes food insecurity a barrier to the utilisation of MWHs. Consumption of edible indigenous insects is a common practice and has notable nutritional benefits but has not been studied in Liberia as a potential solution to food insecurity at MWHs. The purpose of this study is to (a) examine the acceptability of insect consumption in the context of Liberian beliefs, (b) identify species commonly consumed by pregnant women in Liberia, and (c) examine the feasibility of harvesting insects as food and income generation for women staying at MWHs. Focus groups were conducted at 18 healthcare facilities in Liberia. Participants included chiefs, community leaders, women of reproductive age, traditional birth attendants, women staying at MWHs, and male partners. Focus group participants identified many different species of insects consumed by pregnant women in the community as well as the perceived health impacts of insect consumption. They also described their own experiences with insect hunting and consumption and the perceived marketability of insects, particularly palm weevil larvae. The results of these discussions demonstrate that insect consumption is an acceptable practice for pregnant women in rural Liberia. These findings suggest that it is feasible to further explore the use of palm weevil larvae as dietary supplementation and income generation for women staying at MWHs in Liberia.
Nurses' knowledge of health literacy, communication techniques, and barriers to the implementation of health literacy programs: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nantsupawat Apiradee , Wichaikhum Orn‐Anong , Abhicharttibutra Kulwadee , Kunaviktikul Wipada , Nurumal Mohd Said Bin , Poghosyan Lusine
Published: March 2020

Nurses' health literacy knowledge and communication skills are essential for improving patients' health literacy. Yet, research on nurses' health literacy knowledge and perception is limited. The study aimed to evaluate nurses' health literacy knowledge, communication techniques, and barriers to the implementation of health literacy interventions. A cross‐sectional study was used, and a total of 1697 nurses in 104 community hospitals in Thailand completed self‐report measures. Approximately 55% of the participants had heard about the concept of health literacy; 9% had received formal training specific to interaction with patients with low health literacy. About 50% of the nurses were aware of their patients' low health literacy; therefore, they applied the recommended communication techniques for them. Delivery of effective health literacy training was hampered by a lack of assessment tools, health literacy training and specialists, educational materials, and health provider time. Hospital administrators, nurse managers, health leaders should develop strategies to create environments and resources supporting health literacy interventions.
Breeding banana (Musa spp.) for drought tolerance: A review
Authors: Nansamba Moureen , Sibiya Julia , Tumuhimbise Robooni , Karamura Deborah , Kubiriba Jerome , Karamura Eldad
Published: March 2020

Drought is a major abiotic stress affecting banana production worldwide, leading to yield losses of up to 65%. Consequently, numerous efforts to understand and mitigate drought effects that include developing tolerant crop varieties are ongoing in several banana breeding programmes. The breeding efforts, however, have been greatly slowed down by inherent banana problems (polyploidy and male or female sterility) and complexity of drought tolerance (reportedly controlled by several genes). This review summarizes the pertinent research findings on water requirements of banana for its proper growth and productivity, symptoms of drought‐sensitive varieties and field management strategies to cope with drought stress. The coping strategies deployed by resistant cultivars include high assimilation rates and water retention capacity as well as minor losses in leaf area and gaseous exchange. Reduced bunch weight, leaf chlorosis, wilting and strangled birth are underlined to be directly associated with drought susceptibility. Integration of conventional, molecular breeding and biotechnological tools as well as exploitation of the existing banana genetic diversity presents a huge opportunity for successful banana improvement.
Upconversion Nanoparticle‐Assisted Photopolymerization
Authors: Wang Ke , Peña Jhair , Xing Jinfeng
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Near‐infrared (NIR) laser has deeper penetration and lower thermal effect compared with ultraviolet–visible (UV/vis) laser. NIR laser can stimulate upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) to emit UV/vis light efficiently. Therefore, the UCNPs become an important kind of materials to produce upconversion luminescence through NIR laser. Compared with photopolymerization induced with UV/vis laser, the UV/vis light from UCNP‐assisted photopolymerization presents some unique characters. This review focuses on the research progress of UCNP‐assisted photopolymerization and its potential applications. We will discuss the influencing factors of UCNP‐assisted polymerization, illustrate the relation between the gel size and monomer concentration and propose the development prospects of UCNP‐assisted polymerization in the biological field.