bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of infection in non‐tunnelled thoracic epidural catheters after major abdominal surgery
Authors: Vogelsang Heike , Lang Alexander , Cevik Bilal , Botteck Nikolaj M. , Weber Thomas P. , Herzog‐Niescery Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Background

Thoracic epidural analgesia is beneficial after major abdominal surgery, though side‐effects and complications are rare but potentially devastating. The incidence of catheter‐related infection is approximately 5.5%. Several guidelines have been recommended to prevent complications during thoracic epidural catheterization. Tunnelling is often recommended to reduce the incidence of infections and dislocations.

Methods

A retrospective, single‐centre analysis of our acute pain service database was performed between 2010 and 2018. The hygiene measures of the German Society of Anaesthesiology have been incorporated in our standard operating protocol since 2009. The procedure remained constant, but the skin disinfectant was changed from propan‐2‐ol to propan‐2‐ol with octenidine in 2014. Tunnelling of catheters was not performed. We analysed the incidence of catheter‐related infections (primary endpoint) and effect of the used disinfectant (secondary endpoint).

Results

A total of 2755 patients underwent elective major abdominal surgery with thoracic epidural catheterization. Sixteen patients (0.6%) showed symptoms of mild catheter‐related infection. Moderate or severe infections were not observed in any patient. The type of disinfectant did not show any significant effect on the incidence of infection.

Conclusion

The incidence of catheter‐related infections was low, and only mild signs of infection were observed. Non‐tunnelling could be an alternative to tunnelling, especially if hygiene protocols are followed, and the duration of catheter use is short. A comprehensive database and regular examinations by trained staff are essential for early detection of abnormalities and immediate removal of the catheter, if required.
Cost‐utility and cost‐effectiveness analysis of a clinical medication review focused on personal goals in older persons with polypharmacy compared to usual care: Economic evaluation of the DREAMeR study
Authors: Verdoorn Sanne , van de Pol Jeroen , Hövels Anke M. , Kwint Henk‐Frans , Blom Jeanet W. , Gussekloo Jacobijn , Bouvy Marcel L.
Published: June 2020

Aims

The ageing society may lead to increasing healthcare expenditure. A clinical medication review (CMR) could potentially reduce costs. The aim of this study is to perform a cost‐utility and cost‐effectiveness analysis from a societal perspective of a patient‐centred CMR.

Methods

A trial‐based cost‐utility and cost‐effectiveness analysis was performed as part of the DREAMeR study, a pragmatic controlled trial that randomised patients aged ≥70 years using at least seven drugs to either CMR or usual care. Over six months, healthcare consumption and drug use were collected to estimate costs, and effects were collected in terms of quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) measured with EQ‐5D‐5 L and EQ‐VAS and as reduced health‐related complaints with impact on patients' daily lives.

Results

The total mean costs per patient (n = 588) over six months were €4,189 ± 6,596 for the control group (n = 294) and €4,008 ± 6,678 for the intervention group (n = 294), including estimated intervention costs of €199 ± 67, which resulted in a mean incremental total cost savings of €181 for the intervention group compared to the control group. Compared to the control group, for the intervention group, the mean incremental QALYs over six months were: −0.00217 measured with EQ‐5D and 0.003 measured with EQ‐VAS. The incremental effect of reduced health‐related complaints with impact was −0.34. There was a likelihood of >90% that the intervention was cost‐saving.

Conclusions

The benefits of a patient‐centred CMR were inconsistent with no benefits on HR‐QoL measured with EQ‐5D‐5 L and small benefits on HR‐QoL measured with EQ‐VAS and health‐related complaints with impact on patients' daily lives. Additionally, a CMR could potentially be cost saving from a societal perspective.
Clinical outcome and prognostic factors of patients with Richter syndrome: real‐world study of the Spanish Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Study Group (GELLC)
Authors: Abrisqueta Pau , Delgado Julio , Alcoceba Miguel , Oliveira Ana Carla , Loscertales Javier , Hernández‐Rivas Jose A. , Ferrà Christelle , Cordoba Raul , Yáñez Lucrecia , Medina Angeles , Motlló Cristina , Iacoboni Gloria , Villacampa Guillermo , González Marcos , Bosch Francesc
Published: June 2020

Richter syndrome (RS) is an uncommon evolution of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) with a dismal prognosis. Clinical‐biological features predicting outcome and best therapeutic approach for these patients remain to be established. In this study, 128 patients with RS, including 112 diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL)‐type RS, 15 Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)‐type RS, and one plasmablastic lymphoma, were identified in 11 centres of the Spanish CLL Study Group (GELLC). The median overall survival (OS) was 5·9 months for DLBCL‐type RS and 30·8 months for HL‐type RS. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status, haemoglobin level, platelet count, serum lactate dehydrogenase and β2‐microglobulin levels, tumour protein p53 (TP53) abnormalities in the CLL clone concomitant to RS, number of prior therapies, and clonal relationship between CLL and RS, were associated with OS in patients with DLBCL‐type RS. A platelet count of <100 × 109/l, prior CLL therapy (0 vs. ≥1), and presence of TP53 alterations maintained an independent prognostic impact in the multivariate analysis. Patients without any of these factors had a better clinical outcome, with a median OS of 75·3 months, while patients with one or two or more of these factors presented a median OS of 25·5 and 3 months, respectively. Although OS of patients with RS is generally poor, a proportion of patients achieved prolonged survival. Treatment of RS remains a medical need, and further therapeutic approaches with novel therapies are warranted.
The coronavirus (COVID‐19) fatality risk perception of US adult residents in March and April 2020
Authors: Niepel Christoph , Kranz Dirk , Borgonovi Francesca , Emslander Valentin , Greiff Samuel
Published: June 2020

The study compares empirical results on the coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 (causing COVID‐19) fatality risk perception of US adult residents stratified for age, gender, and race in mid‐March 2020 (N1 = 1,182) and mid‐April 2020 (N2 = 953). While the fatality risk perception has increased from March 2020 to April 2020, our findings suggest that many US adult residents severely underestimated their absolute and relative fatality risk (i.e., differentiated for subgroups defined by pre‐existing medical conditions and age) at both time points compared to current epidemiological figures. These results are worrying because risk perception, as our study indicates, relates to actual or intended health‐protective behaviour that can reduce SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission rates.
Knockdown of G‐protein‐signaling modulator 2 promotes metastasis of non‐small‐cell lung cancer by inducing the expression of Snail
Authors: Deng Mingming , Liu Bofang , Zhang Zhe , Chen Yang , Wang Yizhe , Wang Ximing , Lv Qingjie , Yang Xianghong , Hou Kezuo , Che Xiaofang , Qu Xiujuan , Liu Yunpeng , Zhang Ye , Hu Xuejun
Published: June 2020

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading global cause of cancer‐related death. Due to the lack of reliable diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers, the prognosis of NSCLC remains poor. Consequently, there is an urgent need to explore the mechanisms underlying this condition in order to identify effective biomarkers. G‐protein‐signaling modulator 2 (GPSM2) is widely recognized as a determinant of mitotic spindle orientation. However, its role in cancer, especially NSCLC, remains uncertain. In this study, we found that GPSM2 was downregulated in NSCLC tissues and was correlated with a poor prognosis. Furthermore, the knockdown of GPSM2 promoted NSCLC cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo and accelerated the process of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mechanistically, we showed that silencing GPSM2 induced cell metastasis and EMT through the ERK/glycogen synthase kinase‐3β/Snail pathway. These results confirm that GPSM2 plays an important role in NSCLC. Moreover, GPSM2, as an independent prognostic factor, could be a potential prognostic biomarker and drug target for NSCLC.
Methyl brevifolincarboxylate, a novel influenza virus PB2 inhibitor from Canarium Album (Lour.) Raeusch
Authors: Chen Fangzhao , Yang Luoping , Zhai Lingyan , Huang Yingna , Chen Feimin , Duan Wenjun , Yang Jie
Published: June 2020

Methyl brevifolincarboxylate (MBC) was isolated from ethyl acetate extract of Canarium album (Lour.) Raeusch. The structure was identified, and the effect on influenza A virus infection was evaluated. MBC exhibited inhibitory activity against influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) and A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) with IC50 values of 27.16 ± 1.39 μM and 33.41 ± 2.34 μM. Mechanism studies indicated that MBC inhibited the replication of influenza A virus by targeting PB2 cap‐binding domain. Our results demonstrated MBC was a potent PB2 cap‐binding inhibitor and represented as a new type of promising lead compound for the development of anti‐influenza virus drugs from natural products.
CpG methylation signature defines human temporal lobe epilepsy and predicts drug‐resistant
Authors: Xiao Wenbiao , Liu Chaorong , Zhong Kuo , Ning Shangwei , Hou Rui , Deng Na , Xu Yuchen , Luo Zhaohui , Fu Yujiao , Zeng Yi , Xiao Bo , Long Hongyu , Long Lili
Published: June 2020

Aims

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common focal epilepsy syndrome in adults and frequently develops drug resistance. Studies have investigated the value of peripheral DNA methylation signature as molecular biomarker for diagnosis or prognosis. We aimed to explore methylation biomarkers for TLE diagnosis and pharmacoresistance prediction.

Methods

We initially conducted genome‐wide DNA methylation profiling in TLE patients, and then selected candidate CpGs in training cohort and validated in another independent cohort by employing machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, nomogram comprising DNA methylation and clinicopathological data was generated to predict the drug response in the entire patient cohort. Lastly, bioinformatics analysis for CpG‐associated genes was performed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis.

Results

After screening and validation, eight CpGs were identified for diagnostic biomarker with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 and six CpGs for drug‐resistant prediction biomarker with an AUC of 0.79. The nomogram for drug‐resistant prediction comprised methylation risk score, disease course, seizure frequency, and hippocampal sclerosis, with AUC as high as 0.96. Bioinformatics analysis indicated drug response–related CpGs corresponding genes closely related to DNA methylation.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the ability to use peripheral DNA methylation signature as molecular biomarker for epilepsy diagnosis and drug‐resistant prediction.
Using environmental and geographic data to optimize ex situ collections and preserve evolutionary potential
Authors: N. Di Santo Lionel , Hamilton Jill A.
Published: June 2020

Maintenance of biodiversity through seed banks and botanical gardens, where the wealth of species’ genetic variation may be preserved ex situ, is a major goal of conservation. However, challenges can persist in optimizing ex situ collections if trade‐offs exist among cost, effort, and conserving species evolutionary potential, particularly when genetic data are not available. We evaluated the genetic consequences of population preservation informed by geographic (isolation by distance [IBD]) and environmental (isolation by environment [IBE]) distance for ex situ collections for which population provenance is available. We used 19 genetic and genomic data sets from 15 plant species to assess the proportion of population genetic differentiation explained by geographic and environmental factors and to simulate ex situ collections prioritizing source populations based on pairwise geographic distance, environmental distance, or both. Specifically, we tested the impact prioritizing sampling based on these distances may have on the capture of neutral, functional, or putatively adaptive genetic diversity and differentiation. Individually, IBD and IBE explained limited population genetic differences across all 3 genetic marker classes (IBD, 10–16%; IBE, 1–5.5%). Together, they explained a substantial proportion of population genetic differences for functional (45%) and adaptive (71%) variation. Simulated ex situ collections revealed that inclusion of IBD, IBE, or both increased allelic diversity and genetic differentiation captured among populations, particularly for loci that may be important for adaptation. Thus, prioritizing population collections based on environmental and geographic distance data can optimize genetic variation captured ex situ. For the vast majority of plant species for which there is no genetic information, these data are invaluable to conservation because they can guide preservation of genetic variation needed to maintain evolutionary potential within collections.
Wirkung von Isotretinoin auf den Glukosestoffwechsel bei Patienten mit Akne: eine systematische Übersicht und Metaanalyse
Authors: Tsai Tsung‐Yu , Liu Han‐Wen , Chao Yuan‐Chen , Huang Yu‐Chen
Published: June 2020

Frühere Studien, die über den Einfluss einer Isotretinoin‐Therapie auf den Glukosestoffwechsel berichteten, haben widersprüchliche Resultate erbracht. Unser Ziel war es daher, die Auswirkungen einer Isotretinoin‐Therapie auf Veränderungen der Insulinresistenz und den Serumspiegel von Adiponektin bei Patienten mit Akne zu untersuchen. Es wurde eine systematische Durchsicht und Metaanalyse der Literatur vorgenommen, die seit der Einführung von Isotretinoin bis zum 31. März 2019 erschienen ist. Da es keine kontrollierten Studien gab, wurden Open‐Label‐Studien mit Akne‐Patienten, die mit Isotretinoin behandelt worden waren, in die Analyse aufgenommen. Zwölf Studien erfüllten die Einschlusskriterien. Zu den Endpunkten zählten Veränderungen in der Homöostasemodellbewertung der Insulinresistenz (HOMA‐IR) und der Serumspiegel von Adiponektin nach Isotretinoin‐Therapie. Die gepoolte Analyse zeigte, dass sich die HOMA‐IR‐Werte nach Isotretinoin‐Behandlung nicht signifikant veränderten (standardisierte Mittelwertdifferenz [SMD] = 0,183; 95 %‐Konfidenzintervall [KI] = –0,004 bis 0,371; I2 = 38,3), während der Adiponektin‐Spiegel signifikant anstieg (SMD = 0,512; 95 %‐KI = 0,327 bis 0,698; I2 = 10,7). In unserer Analyse kamen wir zu dem Schluss, dass eine Isotretinoin‐Therapie bei Patienten mit Akne zu einer erhöhten Konzentration von Adiponektin im Serum führte, aber keinen wesentlichen Einfluss auf den Grad der Insulinresistenz hatte.
Erythema exsudativum multiforme, Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom/toxische epidermale Nekrolyse – Diagnostik und Therapie
Authors: Grünwald Pavel , Mockenhaupt Maja , Panzer Rüdiger , Emmert Steffen
Published: June 2020

Über ein Jahrhundert herrschten Unklarheit und Kontroverse über die Abgrenzung der Entitäten Erythema exsudativum multiforme (EEM), Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom (SJS) und Toxische epidermale Nekrolyse (TEN), bis schließlich 1993 eine internationale Konsensusklassifikation erschien. Für die Definition der Krankheitsbilder sind demnach die Morphe der Einzelläsionen und das Verteilungsmuster entscheidend. Ätiopathogenetisch liegt dem EEM in der überwiegenden Zahl der Fälle eine Infektion (vor allem mit dem Herpes‐simplex‐Virus oderMycoplasma pneumoniae), SJS/TEN jedoch meist eine Arzneimittelreaktion zugrunde. Die Prognoseeinschätzung im Falle einer SJS/TEN‐Erkrankung kann und sollte anhand des SCORTEN (Score of toxic epidermal necrolysis) erfolgen.

Während für EEM eine supportive Therapie allgemein als ausreichend angesehen wird, besteht über die systemische Therapie der schwerer verlaufenden SJS/TEN‐Erkrankungen weiterhin Unklarheit. Aufgrund fehlender hochqualitativer Therapiestudien und teilweise widersprüchlicher Ergebnisse können aktuell keine eindeutigen Empfehlungen für eine immunmodulierende Therapie gegeben werden. Einem raschen immunsuppressiven Effekt steht prinzipiell ein erhöhtes Infektionsrisiko gegenüber. Vor allem für Ciclosporin mehren sich allerdings Hinweise, dass es das Fortschreiten der Hautablösung stoppen und die Letalität von SJS/TEN senken kann.

Unterstützung bei der Diagnostik und Therapie dieser Krankheitsentitäten kann vom Dokumentationszentrum schwerer Hautreaktionen (dZh) an der Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie Freiburg eingeholt werden.
Rosazea und periorale Dermatitis: Eine monozentrische, retrospektive Analyse des klinischen Erscheinungsbildes von 1032 Patienten
Authors: Hoepfner Andreas , Marsela Enklajd , Clanner‐Engelshofen Benjamin M. , Horvath Orsolya N. , Sardy Miklos , French Lars E. , Reinholz Markus
Published: June 2020

Hintergrund

Rosazea ist eine häufige chronisch‐entzündliche Hauterkrankung, die circa 5,5 % der erwachsenen Bevölkerung betrifft. Unser Ziel war es, die Prävalenz und Epidemiologie von Rosazea und perioraler Dermatitis (POD) in einer ambulanten, universitären Versorgungseinrichtung zu untersuchen.

Methoden

Wir analysierten retrospektiv die medizinischen Daten von Patienten mit der bestätigten Diagnose Rosazea oder perioraler Dermatitis (POD), die sich während eines Zeitraums von drei Jahren in der Ambulanz unseres Universitätsklinikums vorstellten.

Ergebnisse

Von 1032 Patienten wurde bei 81,5 % Rosazea und bei 18,5 % POD diagnostiziert. Die Gesamtprävalenz betrug 1,4 % für Rosazea und 0,3 % für POD. 69,3 % der analysierten Patienten waren weiblich. Das Durchschnittsalter betrug 49,3 ± 17,7 (1–92) Jahre. Das Durchschnittsalter der Frauen war niedriger als das der Männer. Patienten mit POD waren jünger und überwiegend weiblich, während Patienten mit phymatöser Rosazea älter und überwiegend männlich waren. Die häufigsten Phänotypen waren Rosacea papulopustulosa (68,4 %), Rosacea erythematosa‐teleangiectatica (22,5 %) und phymatöse Rosazea (8,0 %). Bei 15,8 % der Patienten wurden Sonderformen der Rosazea diagnostiziert; am häufigsten waren okuläre Rosazea (6,9 %) und Steroid‐induzierte Rosazea (5,4 %).

Schlussfolgerungen

Die große Patientenkohorte, die in unserer Studie analysiert wurde, ermöglicht eine gute Einschätzung der Häufigkeit von Subtypen und Sonderformen der Rosazea sowie der perioralen Dermatitis in der Ambulanz einer klinisch‐universitären Einrichtung.
Developing Double Frontier Version of Dynamic Network DEA Model: Assessing Sustainability of Supply Chains
Authors: Samavati Tahmoures , Badiezadeh Taliva , Saen Reza Farzipoor
Published: June 2020

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is one of the techniques for assessing sustainability of supply chains. There have been raising interests in incorporating sustainability in supply chain operations. The objective of this article is to develop a dynamic network DEA (DNDEA) model for calculating both optimistic and pessimistic efficiency and effectiveness. Also, our proposed model can deal with undesirable outputs. Our model can rank sustainable supply chains in terms of optimistic and pessimistic efficiency and effectiveness. A case study demonstrates efficacy of our proposed model.
Biomarkers of seizure severity derived from wearable devices
Authors: Beniczky Sándor , Arbune Anca A. , Jeppesen Jesper , Ryvlin Philippe
Published: June 2020

Besides triggering alarms, wearable seizure detection devices record a variety of biosignals that represent biomarkers of seizure severity. There is a need for automated seizure characterization, to identify high‐risk seizures. Wearable devices can automatically identify seizure types with the highest associated morbidity and mortality (generalized tonic‐clonic seizures), quantify their duration and frequency, and provide data on postictal position and immobility, autonomic changes derived from electrocardiography/heart rate variability, electrodermal activity, respiration, and oxygen saturation. In this review, we summarize how these biosignals reflect seizure severity, and how they can be monitored in the ambulatory outpatient setting using wearable devices. Multimodal recording of these biosignals will provide valuable information for individual risk assessment, as well as insights into the mechanisms and prevention of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.
Headache as the Presenting Symptom in 2 Patients With COVID‐19 and a History of Migraine: 2 Case Reports
Authors: Singh Jyotika , Ali Ashhar
Published: June 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has now affected more than 5 million people globally. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Patients with underlying medical comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes are more likely to become severely ill. To date there is limited information on how COVID‐19 affects patients with a history migraine. Here, we present the cases of 2 women with a history of migraine whose first symptom of COVID‐19 was a severe persistent headache.
Electrolytic in‐process dressing grinding performance of a multi‐layer brazed coarse‐grained diamond wheel using an electrolyte containing carbon microspheres
Authors: Wu Qiaoping , Song Kun , Ouyang Zhiyong , Wang Yu
Published: June 2020

An electrolyte containing carbon microspheres (CMSs) was prepared for electrolytic dressing of a multi‐layer brazed coarse‐grained diamond wheel. And the influence of CMSs on the electrolytic in‐process dressing grinding performance of Si3N4 ceramics with the brazed wheel was investigated. The results indicate that the CMSs can increase the electrolytic capacity of the electrolyte, which increases the thickness of the oxide film formed on the brazed wheel surface, and the worn diamond grit can easily fall off from the bonding matrix. In addition, the CMSs were adsorbed and distributed on the film, which effectively improves its densification and adhesion strength. This thicker and denser oxide film can improve the polishing effect of the brazed wheel. Thus, a better machined surface quality and less subsurface damage of the Si3N4 ceramics can be obtained by the multi‐layer brazed coarse‐grained diamond wheel with electrolyte containing CMSs.
Unusual concentration induced antithermal quenching of the Eu2+ emission at 490 nm in Sr4Al14O25:Eu2+ for near ultraviolet excited white LEDs
Authors: Liu Huailu , Liu Xiaoqi , Wang Xiu , Peng Mingying , Xiong Puxian , Chen Yan , Wang Yafei , Lei Bingfu , Zeng Qingguang
Published: June 2020

Thermal quenching of phosphor is an important challenge for its practical application in phosphor‐converted white light‐emitting diodes (pc‐WLEDs) and it usually becomes aggravated with the increase of activator concentration. Conversely, this work finds the thermal quenching of Eu2+ emission at 490 nm in Sr4Al14O25:Eu2+ does not follow this in the temperature range of 300 to 480 K, and the rate of it is even slowed down as the concentration of Eu2+ increases. However, at the same time, the experiment on three heating‐cooling cycles of Sr4Al14O25:Eu2+ reveals that the thermal degradation of Eu2+ emission becomes improved. Once Eu2+ ions are doped into Sr4Al14O25, they will prefer substituting for the 10‐ and 7‐coordinated strontium sites Sr1 and Sr2, respectively. The emission centers Eu1 and Eu2, therefore, appear. The abnormal phenomenon is perhaps partly due to the enhanced energy transfer from the emission center Eu1 at 407 nm to the one Eu2 at 490 nm. It is also found interesting that the introduction of AlN can enhance the emission of Sr4Al14O25:Eu2+ without leading to the deterioration of thermal degradation. In the end, a prototype of pc‐WLED was fabricated with Sr4Al14O25:Eu2+ to demonstrate the application of white lighting. This work is not only beneficial to the understanding of the relationship between concentration and thermal quenching, but also conducive to the design of the heavily doped phosphor for WLEDs with better resistance to thermal quenching.
Embedding Sustainability Performance and Long‐Term Strategy in the Earnings Call
Authors: Eckerle Kevin , Whelan Tensie , Tomlinson Brian
Published: June 2020

The practice of disclosing corporate Environmental, Social and Governance performance information continues to evolve, and the frequency of ESG disclosures in investor‐facing discussions, including Investor Day presentations and non‐deal roadshows, continues to grow. But even with these developments, the corporate‐investor dialogue about ESG and long‐term strategy, and their expected effects on long‐run profitability and value, has continued to lag. This seems particularly evident in the quarterly earnings call.

In this article, the authors review the work of NYU's Center for Sustainable Business, in collaboration with Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose (CECP), in encouraging companies to work ESG themes and performance into their quarterly earnings calls. After discussing the reasons for the relatively slow progress in this important disclosure venue, including interviews with sell‐side analysts, the authors propose practical approaches that can guide companies, regardless of industry or market cap, in delivering this content in a way that is valuable to both buy‐side and sell‐side equity analysts.
Direct and indirect vulnerability of economic sectors to water scarcity: A hotspot analysis of the Indian economy
Authors: Bogra Shelly , Bakshi Bhavik R.
Published: June 2020

Resource scarcity is capable of affecting economic activity. Though the dependence of direct users is easily acknowledged, indirect vulnerability imposed on downstream sectors of the economic system is not as easily understood. In the context of growing water scarcity across India, this study maps the dependence of prominent sectors of the Indian economy to the water‐withdrawal model of India (Bogra, Bakshi, & Mathur, 2016). From the suppliers' perspective, the results indicate that embodied water of the largest direct water‐withdrawing food sectors namely, Paddy, Wheat, and Sugarcane (PWS) is indirectly consumed mostly by the consumptive food sectors. However, from the users' perspective, even non‐food sectors exhibit a significant dependence on the embodied water of PWS. Further, blue‐water‐based structural path analysis (SPA) of Paddy and Wheat indicate significant contributions to Land transport, Construction, and Beverages, among others, whereas Land transport is important in terms of green water too. The out‐degree measure indicates a higher dependence of the economy on Electricity (blue water) and Forestry (green water) sectors. Specifically, infrastructural sectors exhibit a significant dependence on Electricity; whereas Forestry products contribute to non‐food sectors. State‐wise water‐scarcity indices (WSIs) indicate higher dependence of Electricity on scarce surface‐water flows of north‐western and central states, whereas forested areas in the north and north‐eastern parts of India exhibit lowest ground WSIs. By integrating regional flows with sectoral dependencies, it is observed that the risk to a reduction of the economy's throughput is higher from water withdrawn by Electricity compared to food sectors, PWS.
Effect of sugarcane bagasse addition on physical, chemical, and sensory properties of oat flour and banana cake
Authors: Silva Amanda S. , Correa Luana G. , Kanai Rafaela S. S. , Shirai Marianne A.
Published: June 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of sugarcane bagasse (SB) addition on chemical, physical, and sensory properties of the oat flour and banana cakes. The SB was added in the amount of 3 g and 6 g/100 g solids (BC3 and BC6) to obtain cakes considered “source of fiber” and “high in fiber content,” respectively. The addition of SB did not alter the chemical composition of the cakes except the dietary fiber which was higher in the BC6. The firmness of the cake increased with SB concentration, but this fact did not interfere in the sensorial acceptance of the product. The production of oat flour and banana cakes containing “high fiber content” with good sensorial acceptance was possible and demonstrated the reuse of an agro‐industrial residue widely available the sugar and alcohol industry.
Towards a Theological and Synodal Response to the Abuse Crisis
Authors: Goulding Gill
Published: June 2020

Beneath the appalling incidents of sexual abuse in the Church, there are key theological issues. Along with Pope Francis, I argue that central to this crisis is the abuse of power. I propose that part of the way to address this is through a discussion of the appropriate use of power; and perhaps the best way to think about the appropriate use of power is through the notion of the appropriate use of authority - as service. Here, I suggest there could be the beginning of an ecclesial response that would involve the wider Church along the developing lines of synodality that Pope Francis promotes. After an initial introduction focusing the abuse of authority and the call for a greater synodal way of relating in the Church, there is consideration of the vital foundation of authority rooted in intimacy with God. This leads to an exploration of the centrality of the example of Christ for authentic exercise of authority. Dialogue is seen as a healthy expression of authority, while living the tensions in the exercise of authority suggests a true witness to authority could be the formation of communities of discourse bearing many of the hallmarks of the synodal process.
Evolution of the metal hyperaccumulation and hypertolerance traits
Authors: Manara Anna , Fasani Elisa , Furini Antonella , DalCorso Giovanni
Published: June 2020

To succeed in life, living organisms have to adapt to the environmental issues to which they are subjected. Some plants, defined as hyperaccumulators, have adapted to metalliferous environments, acquiring the ability to tolerate and accommodate high amounts of toxic metal into their shoot, without showing symptoms of toxicity. The determinants for these traits and their mode of action have long been the subject of research, whose attention lately moved to the evolution of the hypertolerance and hyperaccumulation traits. Genetic evidence indicates that the evolution of both traits includes significant evolutionary events that result in species‐wide tolerant and accumulating backgrounds. Different edaphic environments are responsible for subsequent refinement, by local adaptive processes, leading to specific strategies and various degrees of hypertolerance and hyperaccumulation, which characterize metallicolous from non‐metallicolous ecotypes belonging to the same genetic unit. In this review, we overview the most updated concepts regarding the evolution of hyperaccumulation and hypertolerance, highlighting also the ecological context concerning the plant populations displaying this fascinating phenomenon.
Dermatologic conditions in Down syndrome: A single‐center retrospective chart review
Authors: Rork Jillian F. , McCormack Lindsay , Lal Karan , Wiss Karen , Belazarian Leah
Published: June 2020

Background

Current literature addressing dermatologic conditions associated with Down syndrome is limited, with emphasis on rare skin conditions and lack of consensus on the incidence of more common disorders.

Objective

We sought to evaluate dermatologic conditions in patients with Down syndrome diagnosed and managed by dermatologists.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 101 pediatric and adult patients with Down syndrome seen by the University of Massachusetts Dermatology Department between 2008 and 2018.

Results

Folliculitis was the most common diagnosis overall (30.7%), followed by seborrheic dermatitis (26.7%) and hidradenitis suppurativa (22.8%). Eczematous dermatitis, alopecia areata, and xerosis were the most common diagnoses observed in children aged 0‐12 years; hidradenitis suppurativa, folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis in adolescents aged 13‐17 years; and folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and xerosis in adults 18 years and older. Other notable diagnoses present overall included onychomycosis (9.9%) and psoriasis (8.9%). Malignant cutaneous tumors were present in two patients, specifically basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma in situ.

Limitations

This was a retrospective, single‐institution study.

Conclusion

Dermatologic conditions in patients with Down syndrome vary by age but are most often adnexal and eczematous disorders. Trisomy of chromosome 21 and the resulting downstream effects, specifically on the immune system, may account for these findings.
Fat distribution in short‐stature children born small for gestational age
Authors: Maeyama Takatoshi , Ida Shinobu , Onuma Shinsuke , Shoji Yasuko , Yamamoto Takehisa , Etani Yuri , Kawai Masanobu
Published: June 2020

Background

Children born small for gestational age (SGA) with catch‐up growth are at high risk for developing obesity; however, the characteristics of body composition, especially fat distribution, before and after growth hormone (GH) treatment in SGA children without catch‐up growth remains largely unknown.

Methods

Anthropometric characteristics, body composition by dual‐energy X‐ray absorption, and fat distribution by computed tomography at the umbilical level were examined in 27 prepubertal short‐stature children born SGA before and 1 year after GH treatment.

Results

Before GH treatment, short‐stature SGA children had lean phenotypes, and both visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were significantly lower than the age‐ and sex‐matched Japanese reference values. Growth hormone treatment significantly increased height standard deviation scores (SDS), without affecting body mass index SDS. Percentage fat mass decreased with GH treatment; however, fat mass was not altered. Both VAT and SAT were significantly lower than the reference values after GH treatment. The ratio of VAT over SAT significantly increased by GH treatment.

Conclusions

Both VAT and SAT were within or below the age‐ and sex‐matched Japanese reference values in short‐stature children born SGA before and after GH treatment, indicating that GH treatment may not have unfavorable effects on adiposity in short‐stature children born SGA, although it may alter fat distribution.
Self‐reported Big Five personality traits of individuals who have experienced partner infidelity
Authors: Mahambrey Meghna
Published: June 2020

Infidelity is defined as unapproved romantic or sexual behaviors outside of one's relationship. Previous literature has identified characteristics of the partner involved in infidelity; this study investigates the Big Five personality traits (openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism) of uninvolved partners. Relationship quality and physical intimacy are also examined within a married subsample. Data was drawn from the second wave of the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS), collected through telephone interviews and self‐administered questionnaires between 2004 and 2006. Results for the overall sample (N = 1,577) indicate that conscientiousness is negatively associated with lifetime partner infidelity. Within the married subsample (n = 898), conscientiousness is negatively associated with spousal infidelity, and agreeableness is positively associated with spousal infidelity.
Ontological disputes and the phenomenon of metalinguistic negotiation: Charting the territory
Authors: Belleri Delia
Published: June 2020

Paradigmatic cases of ontological disputes are taken to concern whether or not certain objects exist. Some theorists, however, prefer to view ontologists as really debating about what we should mean with the term “exist” (or other cognate terms). This implies interpreting ontological disputes asmetalinguistic negotiations, in keeping with a recent trend to interpret other philosophical disputes along these lines (Plunkett and Sundell.Philosopher's Imprint; 2013;13:1–37). A number of issues arise from such proposal. The first is what counts as evidence that an object‐level dispute isactuallya metalinguistic negotiation. The second regards the dialectical relevance of considering metalinguistic negotiation as even just apossibleinterpretative option. The third issue concerns whether, and why, certain object‐level disputes (and especially ontological ones)should beunderstood as metalinguistic negotiations.
Coordinating light responses between the nucleus and the chloroplast, a role for plant cryptochromes and phytochromes
Authors: Griffin Jonathan Henry Charles , Prado Karine , Sutton Phoebe , Toledo‐Ortiz Gabriela
Published: June 2020

To promote photomorphogenesis, including plastid development and metabolism, the phytochrome (phy) and the cryptochrome (cry) photoreceptors orchestrate genome‐wide changes in gene expression in response to Red (R)‐ and Blue (B)‐light cues. While phys and crys have a clear role in modulating photosynthesis, their role in the coordination of the nuclear genome and the plastome, essential for functional chloroplasts, remains underexplored. Using publicly available genome datasets for WT and phyABCDE or cry1cry2 Arabidopsis seedlings, grown, respectively, under R‐ or B‐light, we bioinformatically analyzed the influence of light inputs and photoreceptors in the control of nuclear genes with a function in the chloroplast, and evaluated the role of phyB in the modulation of plastome‐encoded genes. We show gene co‐induction by R‐phys and B‐crys for genes with a chloroplastic function, and also apparent photoreceptor‐driven preferential responses. Evidence from phyB in Arabidopsis together with published evidence from CRY2 in tomato also supports the participation of both photoreceptor families in the global modulation of the plastome genes. To begin addressing how these light‐sensors orchestrate changes in an organellar genome, we evaluated their effect over genes with potential functions in plastid gene‐expression regulation based on their TAIR annotation. Results indicate that both crys and phys modulate ‘plastome‐regulatory genes’ with enrichment in the contribution of crys to all processes and of phys to post‐transcription and transcription. Furthermore, we identified a new role for HY5 as a relevant light‐signaling component in photoreceptor‐based anterograde signaling leading to plastome gene regulation.
The role of oregano herb and its derivatives as immunomodulators in fish
Authors: Alagawany Mahmoud , Farag Mayada R. , Salah Ayman S. , Mahmoud Mohamed A.
Published: June 2020

The motivation behind this article is to give point‐by‐point data about the beneficial applications of oregano feed supplement in fish diets as immunomodulators, antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic. Use of this plant as feed additive plays an important role in the fish diet when compared to other synthetic feed additives. Oregano is rich in phytochemical compounds including carvacrol and thymol in addition to other phenolic compounds with antioxidant and immune‐enhancing activities. Origanum vulgare extract improved the immunological responses and enhanced non‐specific immunity. Also, non‐specific immunity and the lysosomal activity were significantly increased in rainbow trout fed diet enriched with 3.0 mL essential oil of Origanum onites L kg−1 diet for 60 days. Furthermore, non‐specific immune stimulant, antioxidant and nitric oxide activities were improved due to O. vulgare oil supplementation. In some recent studies, Origanum heracleoticum L essential oil as a growth enhancer increased the antioxidant status. In rainbow trout, the hepatic levels of antioxidant enzymes and the total antioxidant capacity increased by feeding diet enriched with 6 and 10 g kg−1 diet of O. vulgare extract. Therefore, the addition of oregano and/or derivatives as a dietary supplement in fish diet may promote growth and enhance the immunity and health of fish and this will be useful for nutritionists, physiologists and veterinarians.
Foetal development of endocrine organs in dog
Authors: Thuróczy Julianna
Published: June 2020

The canine adenohypophysis starts to be identifiable from 25 day of pregnancy. ACTH‐immunoreactive cells migrate until day 38 after which the number of ACTH‐producing cells increases but their distribution does not change. The STH‐ and LH‐producing cells first appear on day 38 of pregnancy. The primordium of the adrenal glands appears as a slender structure on day 27 and forms the definitive cortical structure on day 35. The histological pattern of the foetal adrenal cortex differs from the post‐natal structure in so far as the three cortical zones (definitive zone, transitional zone and foetal zone) extend from the outside towards the inside of gland. The mass of foetal and neonatal adrenals is more than 10 times larger than the adult adrenals relative to body weight. The cortisol concentration in the amnion is slightly lower than in the allantois but the foetal serum cortisol concentration is significantly higher than in the maternal and foetal fluid compartments. The thyroxine concentrations in the allantois and amnion fluids exceed the foetal serum concentrations except in the ninth week of pregnancy, but thyroxine levels in foetal fluids and serum are below the physiological levels of adult animals. The exocrine and endocrine functions of the pancreas develop and act in parallel. Pancreatic cells are first detected at 30 days when the branched structure is clearly detectable immunohistochemically, and at that time, insulin‐positive β‐cells and α‐cells are visible as well. The foetal serum glucose concentration exceeds the healthy adult range, but the glucose concentration in the allantois and amnion fluid remains below the physiological blood glucose concentration of mature dogs. The insulin concentration in the allantois fluid greatly exceeds the foetal serum and amnion insulin concentrations.
A coarse‐grained basin floor turbidite system – the Jurassic Los Molles Formation, Neuquen Basin, Argentina
Authors: Giacomone Gabriel , Olariu Cornel , Steel Ron , Shin Moonsoo
Published: June 2020

Coarse‐grained turbidite systems have been broadly described mostly on tectonically active basins, but there is lack of a detailed depositional and facies model in relatively unconfined settings. A large outcrop of the Los Molles Formation in Neuquen Basin is used to build the architecture, hierarchy and facies distribution of a coarse‐grained turbidite system. A high‐resolution satellite image, drone imagery and 4000 m of deposits measured in 20 locations with detailed facies description are used to build isopach and net to gross maps that allowed reconstruction of the system. The turbidite system is composed of five lobe complexes (each averaging 40 m thick). Each lobe complex is composed of two to six lobes (each averaging 5 m thick) that are formed by bed‐sets interpreted as basin floor distributary channels and unconfined flows. The lobe complexes show an overall aggradational pattern with minor progradation and retrogradation of the system and they also tend to stack compensationally in an autocyclic manner. The main characteristics of the system are: along lobe depositional‐axis, beds are thick and coarse with a high proportion of channels and high density turbidites, and 70 to 100% net:gross. In contrast, off depositional‐axis, beds are thinner, and fine to medium‐grained sandstone beds dominate; there is higher proportion of low density turbidites, and 30 to 70% net:gross. Lobe complexes are elongated (8 km wide and up to 20 km long), have high thinning rates (9 m km−1 on average) and at their distal end present finger‐like geometries. These deposits potentially represent good hydrocarbon reservoirs in the subsurface and therefore it is important to consider key aspects such as: (i) the proximity to the axis of the system; higher net:gross translates into fewer mud heterogeneities that could compartmentalize the reservoirs; (ii) geometry is elongated and serrated, and sand pinch‐outs might not occur homogenously; and (iii) topographic influence might decrease the risk of hydrocarbon leakage up‐dip.
The Electoral Choices of Voters with Coalition‐Straddling Consideration Sets
Authors: Sohlberg Jacob , Fredén Annika
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Preelectoral party coalitions are common in multiparty systems. We examine the proposition that individuals who choose between parties from competing coalitions think and behave differently compared to those who only consider voting for parties of the same coalition. Part of the reason, we suggest, is that coalition‐straddling voters play a key role in deciding who forms government.

Methods

We rely on data from a multiwave panel with thousands of participants collected during two election campaigns in Sweden. Statistical regression techniques are used to analyze the data.

Results

We find that citizens who straddle opposing coalitions think that the vote decision is harder and rely more on voting advice applications. Moreover, the evidence suggests that their ultimate vote choice is more consequential in how they view parties.

Conclusion

Coalition‐straddling influences political behavior. The evidence is largely in line with the notion that coalition‐straddling individuals are aware of their importance.
Local Officials as Partisan Operatives: The Effect of County Officials on Early Voting Administration
Authors: McBrayer Markie , Williams R. Lucas , Eckelman Andrea
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We explore whether officials in county governments follow their partisan allegiances when selecting and siting early voting locations. Because low‐turnout elections are said to benefit Republicans and high‐turnout elections to benefit Democrats, we hypothesize that majority‐Republican county governments create fewer early voting sites than majority‐Democrat county governments. Moreover, we expect the partisan composition of key officials in county government to affect the accessibility of early voting sites, with Republican‐dominated county governments placing sites such that less of the population resides proximately.

Methods

Using an originally collected data set, we assess how counties’ commissioners courts affect the number of sites generally. We then geocode early voting locations in Texas from the 2014, 2016, and 2017 general elections to determine the accessibility of such locations.

Results

Our results provide support for our theory that partisan county officials strategically maintain early voting sites to benefit their party's electoral fortunes. Specifically, Republican‐majority county governments employ fewer early voting locations than Democrat‐majority county governments. Yet, both Democrat and Republican courts site early voting locations similarly.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Republican‐majority county governments make decisions that increase the costs of voting by providing fewer sites, while Democrat‐majority county governments seek to decrease the costs of voting by offering more sites, with both parties attempting to provide their party an electoral edge. Still, Republican‐ and Democratic‐majority county governments site their early voting locations in similarly accessible ways, suggesting that other factors, besides partisanship, structure site location.