bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enrolment in paediatric oncology early‐phase clinical trials: The health‐care professionals' perspective
Authors: Robertson Eden G , Mitchell Richard , Wakefield Claire E , Lewis Peter , Cousens Nicole , Marshall Glenn M , Russell Susan J , Ziegler David S , Anazodo Antoinette C , Trahair Toby N , Barbaric Draga , Cohn Richard J , Alvaro Frank , O'Brien Tracey A
Published: October 2018

Aim

Approximately 20–30% of children/adolescents with cancer will not respond to standard therapies. These children are usually offered experimental treatment in the form of an early‐phase clinical trial. We examined the perspectives of health‐care professionals (HCPs) regarding obtaining informed consent for early‐phase trials in paediatric oncology.

Methods

We collected survey data from 87 HCPs working in paediatric cancer centres across Australia and New Zealand.

Results

HCPs were, on average, 44 years old (range = 25–74), with 15.8 years' experience in paediatric oncology (range = 1–40). Few HCPs (17.4%) received training for early‐phase trial consent; however, most were willing to attend training (77.9%). HCPs (61.6%) reported that they informed families about early‐phase trials without any attempt to influence their decision. However, 23.3% of HCPs reported that they informed families that their child would benefit. HCPs' main obstacle in obtaining consent was their perception of parents' eagerness to ‘try anything’ (52.3%). HCPs perceived that many parents misunderstood key clinical trials concepts, with 25.2% of HCPs believing that not being given clear information influenced parents' decisions. Physicians were more likely than social workers/nurses to inform families that other children will benefit from enrolment in the study. Social workers/nurses appeared to rate the chance of benefits for the patient higher than physicians.

Conclusions

HCPs may experience difficulty conducting early‐phase trial consultations and obtaining valid informed consent. Our study highlights the need for formal training for HCPs and additional patient education tools.
Nutritional assessment of resettled paediatric refugees in Western Australia
Authors: Newman Katie , O'Donovan Kelly , Bear Natasha , Robertson Annie , Mutch Raewyn , Cherian Sarah
Published: October 2018

Aim

Nutritional deprivation, inadequate diet and food insecurity are common refugee experiences. The growth and nutritional status of paediatric refugees following resettlement in developed countries and the related interplay with socio‐economic factors remain less defined; this study aims to describe these features.

Methods

Standardised dietary, medical and socio‐demographic health assessments of new refugee patients attending a multidisciplinary paediatric Refugee Health Service (RHS) in Western Australia between 2010 and 2015 were analysed.

Results

Demographic data from 1131 paediatric refugees are described (age 2 months to 17.8 years). The majority experienced socio‐economic disadvantage, had limited parental education and required interpreters. Nutritional deficiencies were common but varied across ethnicities: iron deficiency (ID) (12.3%), anaemia (7.3%) and inadequate dairy intake (41.0%). A third of children (32.6%) did not consume meat. Infant breastfeeding was sustained (77.8%) in infants <12 months. Prolonged breastfeeding (44.9% aged 12–24 months) was associated with an increased risk of ID (odds ratio 4.0, 95% confidence interval 1.4–11.6). Median body mass index increased significantly for those >24 months between referral and RHS assessment (median period 1.8 months). Overall, 27.1% required additional formal dietetic follow‐up, with higher nutritional concerns in refugee children <24 months compared to older patients.

Conclusions

Identification of frequent post‐settlement nutritional concerns has been captured through structured multidisciplinary paediatric health screening. Specific screening for socio‐economic influencing factors, including education, poverty and food insecurity, during refugee clinical assessments is recommended. Development of targeted, culturally appropriate parental education resources and interventions may improve management following resettlement. Longitudinal research assessing resettlement growth trajectories is required.
Placental histopathology in preterm fetal growth restriction
Authors: Sehgal Arvind , Dahlstrom Jane E , Chan Yuen , Allison Beth J , Miller Suzanne L , Polglase Graeme R
Published: October 2018

Aims

Approximately 6–9% pregnancies are affected by fetal growth restriction (FGR). Placental alterations related to utero‐placental insufficiency in FGR may induce placental vascular remodelling to the detriment of the fetus. The objective of this article was to study histopathological features of placentae in a cohort of preterm growth‐restricted infants in comparison to a cohort of preterm appropriately grown infants.

Methods

In a cohort of 40 preterm infants of 28–32 weeks' gestation, placental histopathology was evaluated by a histopathologist, who was blinded to the identity of the grouping. Twenty infants had FGR, while 20 were appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Predefined histopathological characteristics were assessed based on the Amsterdam Placental Workshop Group Consensus Statement.

Results

The gestational age and birthweight of the FGR and AGA cohorts were 29.8 ± 1.3 versus 30 ± 0.9 weeks, P = 0.78 and 923 ± 168 versus 1403 ± 237 g, <0.001, respectively. Maternal vascular malperfusion, accelerated villous maturation and fetal vascular malperfusion were features that were significantly more common in FGR placentae.

Conclusion

Based on the results of the present study, specific placental histopathological changes may be present in FGR placentae, which may reflect the effects of utero‐placental insufficiency.
Translating prenatal oral health clinical standards into dental education: results and policy implications
Authors: Byrd M. Gentry , Quinonez Rocio B. , Lipp Kelly , Chuang Alice , Phillips Ceib , Weintraub Jane A.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To evaluate characteristics of pregnant women served through the University of North Carolina's (UNC) prenatal oral health program (pOHP) dental clinic and community healthcare pathways to inform efforts in promoting prenatal oral health policies.

Methods

The pOHP provides medical and dental students and practitioners with interprofessional experiences caring for pregnant women. A retrospective chart audit captured 314 pregnant women who made appointments over 33 months. Descriptive statistics and bivariate comparisons were computed to assess factors associated with dental appointment attendance and treatment completion.

Results

There were 564 pregnant women, with mean age of 29 years and gestation of 25 weeks, referred to the pOHP dental clinic from UNC OB‐GYN and 20 community sites. Only 56% (N = 314) scheduled an appointment. Of the 314 appointed women, 55% (N = 172) attended at least one appointment. The majority (87%) presented with acute and/or complex treatment needs. Medicaid status was positively associated with appointment attendance (P = 0.001). Less than half (42%) of the women completed treatment prior to delivery. Mean maternal age, gestational age, and weeks to estimated date of delivery (EDD) were not significantly associated with completed treatment.

Conclusions

This study provides descriptive evidence of an academic, interprofessional program's ability to provide safety‐net dental care to pregnant women in the state of North Carolina. Results underscore the need for dental services among pregnant women, signaling for promotion of prenatal oral health clinical standards and informing policy on the state and national levels to maximize dental coverage.
Impact of household composition and family functioning on health of Hispanic mothers in mental health treatment: A secondary analysis study
Authors: Kim Young‐Ju , Mitrani Victoria B.
Published: October 2018

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Mothers with mental health problems are at risk of well‐being and experience lack of support.

There is little research focusing on the effect of household composition on health of Hispanic mothers with mental illness.

As the family is a central feature in Hispanic lives and there is a high dependence on the family for help, it is crucial to understand how household composition and family functioning influences Hispanic mothers’ health and well‐being.

What does the paper adds to existing knowledge?

Living with at least one other adult in the household are related to better Hispanic mothers’ physical and psychological health.

Mothers living with a greater number of adult in the house are more likely to have fatigue and depression.

More family hassles are associated with worse health outcomes in Hispanic mothers with mental health problems

What are the implications for practice?

There is a need to assess family members who are supportive to Hispanic mothers and to address families’ basic needs in the intervention.

Interventions for Hispanic mothers with mental health problems should be grounded in supporting the strengths of the Hispanic familial networks.

A family‐centred approach for mothers with mental health problems requires integrated assessments and interventions including the families as units.

Introduction

Household composition is seen as a critical factor for recovery of Hispanic mothers with mental illness, but little research has examined the relationship of household composition and health.

Aim

This study examined how household composition and family functioning impact on both physical and psychological health of Hispanic mothers receiving outpatient mental health services.

Method

The study analysed baseline data of 137 Hispanic mothers participating in a randomized trial of “Healthy Home,” a family‐strengthening home health intervention. A bilingual (English/Spanish) research assessor interviewed participants regarding household composition, family hassles, family cohesion and mother's physical and psychological health.

Results

Mothers living with at least one other adult and having fewer family hassles had better health outcomes. Mothers living with a greater number of adult in the house were more likely to have fatigue and depression.

Discussion

Hispanic mothers having no adults to help them in the house are less able to maintain their physical and psychological health. A family‐centred approach for mothers requires integrated assessments and interventions including the families as units.

Implication for practice

Interventions for Hispanic mothers with mental health problems should be grounded in supporting the values and strengths of the Hispanic familial networks.
Developing Telemental Health Partnerships Between State Medical Schools and Federally Qualified Health Centers: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape and Policy Recommendations
Authors: Fortney John C. , Veith Richard C. , Bauer Amy M. , Pfeiffer Paul N. , Valenstein Marcia , Pyne Jeffrey M. , Dalack Gregory W. , Kramer Teresa L. , Ferro Lori J. , Metzger Karla , Shore Jay H. , Carlo Andrew D. , Coates Sara , Ward‐Jones Susan , Larkins Ed , Hafer Erin , Shushan Stephanie , Weaver Donald L. , Unützer Jürgen
Published: October 2018

Background

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) deliver care to 26 million Americans living in underserved areas, but few offer telemental health (TMH) services. The social missions of FQHCs and publicly funded state medical schools create a compelling argument for the development of TMH partnerships. In this paper, we share our experience and recommendations from launching TMH partnerships between 12 rural FQHCs and 3 state medical schools.

Experience

There was consensus that medical school TMH providers should practice as part of the FQHC team to promote integration, enhance quality and safety, and ensure financial sustainability. For TMH providers to practice and bill as FQHC providers, the following issues must be addressed: (1) credentialing and privileging the TMH providers at the FQHC, (2) expanding FQHC Scope of Project to include telepsychiatry, (3) remote access to medical records, (4) insurance credentialing/paneling, billing, and supplemental payments, (5) contracting with the medical school, and (6) indemnity coverage for TMH.

Recommendations

We make recommendations to both state medical schools and FQHCs about how to overcome existing barriers to TMH partnerships. We also make recommendations about changes to policy that would mitigate the impact of these barriers. Specifically, we make recommendations to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid about insurance credentialing, facility fees, eligibility of TMH encounters for supplemental payments, and Medicare eligibility rules for TMH billing by FQHCs. We also make recommendations to the Health Resources and Services Administration about restrictions on adding telepsychiatry to the FQHCs’ Scope of Project and the eligibility of TMH providers for indemnity coverage under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
Patterns of Telehealth Use Among Rural Medicaid Beneficiaries
Authors: Talbot Jean A. , Burgess Amanda R. , Thayer Deborah , Parenteau Lily , Paluso Nathan , Coburn Andrew F.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Few studies have examined telehealth use among rural Medicaid beneficiaries. This study produced a descriptive overview of telehealth use in 2011, including the prevalence of telehealth use among rural and urban Medicaid beneficiaries, characteristics of telehealth users, types of telehealth services provided, and diagnoses associated with telehealth use.

Methods

Using data from the 2011 Medicaid Analytic eXtract (MAX), we conducted bivariate analyses to test the associations between rurality and prevalence and patterns of telehealth use among Medicaid beneficiaries.

Findings

Rural Medicaid beneficiaries were more likely to use telehealth services than their urban counterparts, but absolute rates of telehealth use were low—0.26% of rural nondual Medicaid beneficiaries used telehealth in 2011. Psychotropic medication management was the most prevalent use of telehealth for both rural and urban Medicaid beneficiaries, but the proportion of users who accessed nonbehavioral health services through telehealth was significantly greater as rurality increased. Regardless of telehealth users’ residence, mood disorders were the most common reason for obtaining telehealth services. As rurality increased, significantly higher proportions of telehealth users received services to address attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other behavioral health problems usually diagnosed in childhood.

Conclusions

These findings provide a baseline for further policy‐relevant investigations including examinations of changes in telehealth use rates in Medicaid since 2011. Reimbursement policies and unique rural service needs may account for the observed differences in rural‐urban Medicaid telehealth use rates.
Religious Identification, Switching, and Apostasy Among Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland: Individual and Cohort Dynamics Between Two Censuses 2001–2011
Authors: Doebler Stefanie , Shuttleworth Ian
Published: October 2018

Religious identification has historically been salient in Northern Ireland as an ethnic‐national identity marker. Thirteen years after the Good Friday Agreement that marked the start of the peace process in the country, the question arises whether religious affiliation in Northern Ireland has become less of an ethnonational identity marker and more of a personal choice. This article analyzes religious switching and apostasy between 2001 and 2011, using data from the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study, a representative sample of approximately 28 percent of the population, linked to the 2001 and 2011 censuses. We found that the vast majority retained their self‐reported religious affiliation, a tiny minority switched between Protestantism and Catholicism, and a significant minority, particularly among the young, switched to “none/not stated” or between Protestant denominations. Religious switching is associated with young age, higher education, and also socioeconomic deprivation. Experiences of social frustration appear to drive many to leave their faith.
Caring for “Super‐utilizers”: Neoliberal Social Assistance in the Safety‐net
Authors: Fleming Mark D. , Shim Janet K. , Yen Irene , Van Natta Meredith , Hanssmann Christoph , Burke Nancy J.
Published: October 2018

Hospitals throughout the United States are implementing new forms of care delivery meant to address social needs for structurally vulnerable patients as a strategy to prevent emergency department visits and hospitalizations and to thereby reduce costs. This article examines how the deployment of social assistance within a neoliberal institutional logic involves the negotiation and alignment of economistic values with ethics of care. We focus on care practices meant to stabilize the socioeconomic conditions of the most expensive patients in the health care system—the “super‐utilizers”—through the provisioning of basic resources such as housing, food, transportation, and social support. These patients typically suffer from multiple chronic illnesses accompanied by conditions of poverty, housing and food insecurity, exposure to violence and trauma, and associated substance use and mental health problems. We offer an account of how practices of social assistance are being forged within contexts defined by neoliberal governance.
Comparative characterization of putative chitin deacetylases from Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Thalassiosira pseudonana highlights the potential for distinct chitin‐based metabolic processes in diatoms
Authors: Shao Zhanru , Thomas Yann , Hembach Lea , Xing Xiaohui , Duan Delin , Moerschbacher Bruno M. , Bulone Vincent , Tirichine Leila , Bowler Chris
Published: October 2018

Chitin is generally considered to be present in centric diatoms but not in pennate species. Many aspects of chitin biosynthetic pathways have not been explored in diatoms.

We retrieved chitin metabolic genes from pennate (Phaeodactylum tricornutum) and centric (Thalassiosira pseudonana) diatom genomes. Chitin deacetylase (CDA) genes from each genome (PtCDA and TpCDA) were overexpressed in P. tricornutum. We performed comparative analysis of their sequence structure, phylogeny, transcriptional profiles, localization and enzymatic activities.

The chitin relevant proteins show complex subcellular compartmentation. PtCDA was likely acquired by horizontal gene transfer from prokaryotes, whereas TpCDA has closer relationships with sequences in Opisthokonta. Using transgenic P. tricornutum lines expressing CDA‐green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion proteins, PtCDA predominantly localizes to Golgi apparatus whereas TpCDA localizes to endoplasmic reticulum/chloroplast endoplasmic reticulum membrane. CDA‐GFP overexpression upregulated the transcription of chitin synthases and potentially enhanced the ability of chitin synthesis. Although both CDAs are active on GlcNAc5, TpCDA is more active on the highly acetylated chitin polymer DA60.

We have addressed the ambiguous characters of CDAs from P. tricornutum and T. pseudonana. Differences in localization, evolution, expression and activities provide explanations underlying the greater potential of centric diatoms for chitin biosynthesis. This study paves the way for in vitro applications of novel CDAs.
The regulatory module MdPUB29‐MdbHLH3 connects ethylene biosynthesis with fruit quality in apple
Authors: Hu Da‐Gang , Yu Jian‐Qiang , Han Peng‐Liang , Xie Xing‐Bin , Sun Cui‐Hui , Zhang Quan‐Yan , Wang Jia‐Hui , Hao Yu‐Jin
Published: October 2018

The plant hormone ethylene is critical for climacteric fruit ripening, while glucose and anthocyanins determine the fruit quality of climacteric fruits such as apple. Understanding the exact molecular mechanism for this process is important for elucidating the interconnection of ethylene and fruit quality.

Overexpression of apple MdbHLH3 gene, an anthocyanin‐related basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor (bHLH TF) gene, promotes ethylene production, and transgenic apple plantlets and trees exhibit ethylene‐related root developmental abnormalities, premature leaf senescence, and fruit ripening. Biochemical analyses demonstrate that MdbHLH3 binds to the promoters of three genes that are involved in ethylene biosynthesis, including MdACO1, MdACS1, and MdACS5A, activating their transcriptional expression, thereby promoting ethylene biosynthesis.

High glucose‐inhibited U‐box‐type E3 ubiquitin ligase MdPUB29, the ortholog of Arabidopsis AtPUB29 in apple, influences the expression of ethylene biosynthetic genes and ethylene production by direct ubiquitination of the MdbHLH3 protein.

Our findings provide new insights into the ubiquitination of MdbHLH3 by glucose‐inhibited ubiquitin E3 ligase MdPUB29 in the regulation of ethylene biosynthesis as well as indicate that the regulatory module MdPUB29‐MdbHLH3 connects ethylene biosynthesis with fruit quality in apple.
ZmMADS69 functions as a flowering activator through the ZmRap2.7‐ZCN8 regulatory module and contributes to maize flowering time adaptation
Authors: Liang Yameng , Liu Qiang , Wang Xufeng , Huang Cheng , Xu Guanghui , Hey Stefan , Lin Hung‐Ying , Li Cong , Xu Dingyi , Wu Lishuan , Wang Chenglong , Wu Weihao , Xia Jinliang , Han Xu , Lu Sijia , Lai Jinsheng , Song Weibin , Schnable Patrick S. , Tian Feng
Published: October 2018

Flowering time is a major determinant of the local adaptation of plants. Although numerous loci affecting flowering time have been mapped in maize, their underlying molecular mechanisms and roles in adaptation remain largely unknown.

Here, we report the identification and characterization of MADS‐box transcription factor ZmMADS69 that functions as a flowering activator through the ZmRap2.7‐ZCN8 regulatory module and contributes to adaptation. We show that ZmMADS69 underlies a quantitative trait locus controlling the difference in flowering time between maize and its wild ancestor, teosinte. Maize ZmMADS69 allele is expressed at a higher level at floral transition and confers earlier flowering than the teosinte allele under long days and short days. Overexpression of ZmMADS69 causes early flowering, while a transposon insertion mutant of ZmMADS69 exhibits delayed flowering. ZmMADS69 shows pleiotropic effects for multiple traits of agronomic importance.

ZmMADS69 functions upstream of the flowering repressor ZmRap2.7 to downregulate its expression, thereby relieving the repression of the florigen gene ZCN8 and causing early flowering. Population genetic analyses showed that ZmMADS69 was a target of selection and may have played an important role as maize spread from the tropics to temperate zones.

Our findings provide important insights into the regulation and adaptation of flowering time.
Imaging microstructure of the barley rhizosphere: particle packing and root hair influences
Authors: Koebernick Nicolai , Daly Keith R. , Keyes Samuel D. , Bengough Anthony G. , Brown Lawrie K. , Cooper Laura J. , George Timothy S. , Hallett Paul D. , Naveed Muhammad , Raffan Annette , Roose Tiina
Published: October 2018

Soil adjacent to roots has distinct structural and physical properties from bulk soil, affecting water and solute acquisition by plants. Detailed knowledge on how root activity and traits such as root hairs affect the three‐dimensional pore structure at a fine scale is scarce and often contradictory.

Roots of hairless barley (Hordeum vulgare L. cv Optic) mutant (NRH) and its wildtype (WT) parent were grown in tubes of sieved (<250 μm) sandy loam soil under two different water regimes. The tubes were scanned by synchrotron‐based X‐ray computed tomography to visualise pore structure at the soil–root interface. Pore volume fraction and pore size distribution were analysed vs distance within 1 mm of the root surface.

Less dense packing of particles at the root surface was hypothesised to cause the observed increased pore volume fraction immediately next to the epidermis. The pore size distribution was narrower due to a decreased fraction of larger pores. There were no statistically significant differences in pore structure between genotypes or moisture conditions.

A model is proposed that describes the variation in porosity near roots taking into account soil compaction and the surface effect at the root surface.
Thermal adaptation and plasticity of the plant circadian clock
Authors: Gil Kyung‐Eun , Park Chung‐Mo
Published: October 2018

Contents

Summary
1215

I.
Introduction
1215

II.
Molecular organization of the plant circadian clock
1216

III.
Temperature compensation
1219

IV.
Temperature regulation of circadian behaviors
1220

V.
Thermal adaptation of the clock: evolutionary considerations
1223

VI.
Light and temperature information for the clock function – synergic or individual?
1224

VII.
Concluding remarks and future prospects
1225

Acknowledgements
1225

References
1225

Plant growth and development is widely affected by diverse temperature conditions. Although studies have been focused mainly on the effects of stressful temperature extremes in recent decades, nonstressful ambient temperatures also influence an array of plant growth and morphogenic aspects, a process termed thermomorphogenesis. Notably, accumulating evidence indicates that both stressful and nonstressful temperatures modulate the functional process of the circadian clock, a molecular timer of biological rhythms in higher eukaryotes and photosynthetic prokaryotes. The circadian clock can sustain robust and precise timing over a range of physiological temperatures. Genes and molecular mechanisms governing the temperature compensation process have been explored in different plant species. In addition, a ZEITLUPE/HSP90‐mediated protein quality control mechanism helps plants maintain the thermal stability of the clock under heat stress. The thermal adaptation capability and plasticity of the clock are of particular interest in view of the growing concern about global climate changes. Considering these circumstances in the field, we believe that it is timely to provide a provoking discussion on the current knowledge of temperature regulation of the clock function. The review also will discuss stimulating ideas on this topic along with ecosystem management and future agricultural innovation.
Aging, the menopausal transition, and hormone replenishment therapy: retrieval of confidence and compliance
Authors: Saul Shira Rebecca , Kase Nathan
Published: October 2018

The negative health consequences of age and the postmenopausal hypoestrogenic state and their clinical management are described in this paper. While some dysfunctional elements are irreversibly entrained, others can be modified by an updated menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) strategy reflecting revision and reassessment of the initial Women's Health Initiative (WHI) reports. However, until that positive outcome is realized, menopausal women and their healthcare providers must re‐establish willingness to utilize these effective strategies. This reluctance is fueled by persistent mistaken application of WHI results that reflect the bundled risk and benefits of MHT in asymptomatic women aged 50–79 (average age 63), as opposed to women in their 40s and 50s who initiate therapy because of vasomotor symptoms. The absolute risk of adverse outcomes is much lower and the benefits dramatically higher in these younger women. In addition, newer FDA‐approved formulations, lower dosage regimens, and transdermal delivery methodologies offer wider choice of approaches and promise even greater safety. The positive and negative lessons of the WHI have been learned and can be applied effectively.
Historical weather data for climate risk assessment
Authors: Brönnimann Stefan , Martius Olivia , Rohr Christian , Bresch David N. , Lin Kuan‐Hui Elaine
Published: October 2018

Weather‐ and climate‐related hazards are responsible for monetary losses, material damages, and societal consequences. Quantifying related risks is, therefore, an important societal task, particularly in view of future climate change. For this task, climate risk assessment increasingly uses model chains, which mainly build on data from the last few decades. The past record of events could play a role in this context. New numerical techniques can make use of historical weather data to simulate impacts quantitatively. However, using historical data for model applications differs from using recent products. Here, we provide an overview of climate risk assessment methodologies and of the properties of historical instrumental and documentary data. Using three examples, we then outline how historical environmental data can be used today in climate risk assessment by (1) developing and validating numerical model chains, (2) providing a large statistical sample which can be directly exploited to estimate hazards and to model present risks, and (3) establishing “worst‐case” events which are relevant references in the present or future. The examples show that, in order to be successful, different sources (reanalyses, digitized instrumental data, and documentary data) and methods (dynamical downscaling and analog methods) need to be combined on a case‐by‐case basis.
Risk of excessive intake of vitamins and minerals delivered through public health interventions: objectives, results, conclusions of the meeting, and the way forward
Authors: Garcia‐Casal Maria Nieves , Mowson Robin , Rogers Lisa , Grajeda Ruben ,   consultation working groups
Published: October 2018

The excessive consumption of certain vitamins and minerals could have deleterious consequences on health and development of individuals and populations. Simultaneous micronutrient‐delivery interventions could be challenging in terms of safety as the target populations may overlap, posing a risk of excessive intake of certain micronutrients. The Evidence and Programme Guidance Unit of the Department of Nutrition for Health and Development of the World Health Organization convened a technical consultation on the risk of excessive intake of vitamins and minerals delivered through public health interventions in October 2017. The technical consultation's working groups identified important and emerging technical issues, lessons learned, and research priorities related to (1) planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating nutrition programs for the detection and control of the risk of excessive intakes; (2) safety, quality control, and assurance considerations; (3) coordination between public health nutrition interventions and other interventions and sectors; and (4) the legislative framework and policy coherence needed for simultaneous nutrition interventions. This paper provides the background and rationale of the technical consultation, synopsizes the presentations, and provides a summary of the main considerations proposed by the working groups.
Bifunctional anticaries peptides with antibacterial and remineralizing effects
Authors: Wang Xiuqing , Wang Yufei , Wang Kun , Ren Qian , Li Haoran , Zheng Sainan , Niu Yumei , Zhou Xuedong , Li Wei , Zhang Linglin
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Initial dental caries often occurs in clinic. Reduction of cariogenic bacteria and promotion of remineralization are effective ways to control them. This study was to develop bifunctional anticaries peptides with antibacterial and remineralizing properties.

Methods

We designed peptides TDH19, TNH19, and TVH19 and selected one through comparing their minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) against Streptococcus mutans and their reaction on mineralization. Then the bifunction of the selected peptide was studied through: (a) effects on S. mutans biofilm, (b) remineralizing effects on initial lesions and (c) stability in saliva and cytocompatibility to human oral keratinocytes (HOKs).

Results

TVH19 showed the lowest MIC and MBC and a better mineralizing ability. It inhibited new biofilm formation and reduced the viability of old biofilm (p < 0.05). Treating initial caries with TVH19 led to greater recovery of surface microhardness, shallower lesion depth, and higher mineral content (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between TVH19 and NaF samples (p > 0.05). TVH19 was stable in saliva and had little effect on HOKs.

Conclusions

The novel bifunctional anticaries peptide TVH19 was developed with remarkable antibacterial activity and the potential to enhance remineralization of initial caries.
Potential feedback between coral presence and farmerfish collective behavior promotes coral recovery
Authors: Kamath Ambika , Pruitt Jonathan N. , Brooks Andrew J. , Ladd Mark C. , Cook Dana T. , Gallagher Jordan P. , Vickers Michael E. , Holbrook Sally J. , Schmitt Russell J.
Published: October 2018

Stable between‐group differences in collective behavior have been documented in a variety of social taxa. Here we evaluate the effects of such variation, often termed collective or colony‐level personality, on coral recovery in a tropical marine farmerfish system. Groups of the farmerfish Stegastes nigricans cultivate and defend gardens of palatable algae on coral reefs in the Indo‐Pacific. These gardens can promote the recruitment, growth, and survival of corals by providing a refuge from coral predation. Here we experimentally evaluate whether the collective response of farmerfish colonies is correlated across intruder feeding guilds – herbivores, corallivores and egg‐eating predators. Further, we evaluate if overall colony responsiveness or situation‐specific responsiveness (i.e. towards herbivores, corallivores, or egg‐eaters in particular) best predicts the growth of outplanted corals. Finally, we experimentally manipulated communities within S. nigricans gardens, adding either macroalgae or large colonies of coral, to assess if farmerfish behavior changes in response to the communities they occupy. Between‐group differences in collective responsiveness were repeatable across intruder guilds. Despite this consistency, responsiveness towards corallivores (porcupinefish and ornate butterflyfish) was a better predictor of outplanted coral growth than responsiveness towards herbivores or egg‐eaters. Adding large corals to farmerfish gardens increased farmerfish attacks towards intruders, pointing to possible positive feedback loops between their aggression towards intruders and the presence of corals whose growth they facilitate. These data provide evidence that among‐group behavioral variation could strongly influence the ecological properties of whole communities.
Avoiding damage to transvenous leads—A comparison of electrocautery techniques and two insulated electrocautery blades
Authors: Wasserlauf Jeremiah , Esheim Taiki , Jarett Natasha M. , Chan Eric K.Y. , Schaller Robert D. , Garcia Fermin C. , Knight Bradley P.
Published: October 2018

Background

Electrocautery (cautery) can damage transvenous cardiac device leads. The purpose of this study was to compare lead damage from an insulated cautery blade when used with several different techniques that included coagulation (COAG) versus cutting (CUT) mode, perpendicular active edge (active) versus parallel flat blade (flat) orientation (phase 1), and using one commercially available blade (PhotonBlade) versus another (PlasmaBlade) (phase 2).

Methods

In phase 1, lesions were delivered using combinations of: (1) COAG and CUT; (2) active and flat orientation; and (3) polyurethane, silicone, and copolymer insulation. In phase 2, lesions were delivered using combinations of: (1) PlasmaBlade and PhotonBlade, (2) four power output levels, and (3) eight different lead models. Lead damage was scored on an ordinal scale of 0 to 4.

Results

Phase 1: more leads were damaged using COAG than CUT (48% vs 2%, P < 0.0001). When using COAG, 74% of lesions using active orientation had damage versus 22% of lesions using flat orientation (P  =  0.0002). COAG lesions to copolymer (61%) and polyurethane (68%) leads had greater damage than silicone (17%) (P  =  0.006 and P  =  0.003, respectively). Phase 2: 75% of treatments using PlasmaBlade had damage versus 40% of treatments with PhotonBlade (P < 0.0001). Higher power resulted in more damage. At the commonly used setting of CUT 20 W, damage occurred in 39% of treatments using PlasmaBlade versus 13% using PhotonBlade (P  =  0.0006).

Conclusions

COAG resulted in more damage than CUT; this effect was greatest with the active edge, and with polyurethane or copolymer insulation. PhotonBlade was associated with less damage to leads than PlasmaBlade.
Micra implantation in a patient with transposition of great arteries
Authors: Kotschet Emily , Alasti Mohammad , Alison Jeff
Published: October 2018

We describe a 56‐year‐old male with transposition of the great arteries and Mustard repair, superior vena cava obstruction, atrial fibrillation, and progressive deterioration of his epicardial lead performance. We were successful in deploying of Micra (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) at the septo‐apical area of his nonsystemic ventricle in a stable position with satisfactory pacing and sensing thresholds.
Biatrial volume, estimated using magnetic resonance imaging, predicts atrial fibrillation recurrence after ablation
Authors: Kumagai Yu , Iwayama Tadateru , Arimoto Takanori , Kutsuzawa Daisuke , Hashimoto Naoaki , Tamura Harutoshi , Nishiyama Satoshi , Takahashi Hiroki , Shishido Tetsuro , Yamauchi Sou , Yamanaka Tamon , Miyamoto Takuya , Watanabe Tetsu , Kubota Isao , Watanabe Masafumi
Published: October 2018

Introduction

The predictive value of left atrial volume (LAV) in atrial fibrillation (AF) is known, but the relationship of right atrial volume (RAV) and biatrial volume (BAV) with AF recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is not clear. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging allows us to more precisely quantify atrial volume. We investigated LAV, RAV, and BAV as predictors of AF recurrence following PVI in AF patients.

Methods and Results

We assessed 100 AF patients (age = 59.8 ± 9.5 years, 74 males, 26 females) who underwent nonenhanced CMR before their first PVI. LAV and RAV were measured using CMR. All patients were in sinus rhythm during CMR. BAV was calculated as the sum of LAV and RAV. During the 8‐month follow‐up, AF recurrence occurred in 23 patients. LAV, RAV, and BAV were significantly greater in patients with AF recurrence than in those without (LAV, 103.7 ± 25.8 vs 81.8 ± 24.2 mL, P < 0.001; RAV, 109.4 ± 27.0 vs 82.2 ± 19.6 mL, P < 0.001; BAV, 213.1 ± 46.7 vs 164.1 ± 38.7 mL, P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that increased LAV, RAV, and BAV were significantly correlated with AF recurrence. The area under the receiver operation characteristic curve for BAV showed the largest value compared to that of LAV or RAV alone.

Conclusions

LAV, RAV, and BAV were independent predictors of AF recurrence after PVI. Quantifying BAV may additionally improve prognostic stratification compared with LAV or RAV.
Effectiveness of Primary Care Interventions Using a Biopsychosocial Approach in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: van Erp Reni M. A. , Huijnen Ivan P. J. , Jakobs Marluuke L. G. , Kleijnen Jos , Smeets Rob J. E. M.
Published: October 2018

Background and Objective

Recent systematic reviews show promising effects for multidisciplinary biopsychosocial (BPS) interventions in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Nowadays, BPS interventions have also been developed for primary care physiotherapy settings. Our aim was to systematically review the evidence on the effectiveness of primary care BPS interventions in improving functional disability, pain, and work status for patients with CLBP. Secondly, we aimed to provide an elaborated overview of BPS intervention designs, physiotherapist training programs, and process‐related factors (practical implementation).

Methods

We searched in scientific databases and reference lists. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating primary care physiotherapist‐led BPS interventions in adults (≥18 years) with nonspecific CLBP (≥12 weeks) were included.

Results

Our search resulted in 943 references; 7 RCTs were included (1,426 participants). Results show moderate‐quality evidence (3 trials; 991 participants) that a BPS intervention is more effective than education/advice for reducing disability and pain in the short, medium, and long term. Low‐quality evidence (4 trials; 435 participants) was found for no difference with physical activity treatments.

Conclusions

BPS interventions seem more effective than education/advice and were found to be as effective as physical activity interventions in patients with CLBP. BPS interventions with a clear focus on psychosocial factors (understanding pain, unhelpful thoughts, coping styles, and goal setting) seem most promising. Sufficient delivery of BPS elements is expected when physiotherapists participate in training programs with extensive support prior and during delivery (manual, supervision, and informative resources).
Whole genome sequencing reveals rare off‐target mutations and considerable inherent genetic or/and somaclonal variations in CRISPR/Cas9‐edited cotton plants
Authors: Li Jianying , Manghwar Hakim , Sun Lin , Wang Pengcheng , Wang Guanying , Sheng Hanyan , Zhang Jie , Liu Hao , Qin Lei , Rui Hangping , Li Bo , Lindsey Keith , Daniell Henry , Jin Shuangxia , Zhang Xianlong
Published: October 2018

The CRISPR/Cas9 system has been extensively applied for crop improvement. However, our understanding of Cas9 specificity is very limited in Cas9‐edited plants. To identify on‐ and off‐target mutation in an edited crop, we described whole genome sequencing (WGS) of 14 Cas9‐edited cotton plants targeted to three genes, and three negative (Ne) control and three wild‐type (WT) plants. In total, 4188–6404 unique single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 312–745 insertions/deletions (indels) were detected in 14 Cas9‐edited plants compared to WT, negative and cotton reference genome sequences. Since the majority of these variations lack a protospacer‐adjacent motif (PAM), we demonstrated that the most variations following Cas9‐edited are due either to somaclonal variation or/and pre‐existing/inherent variation from maternal plants, but not off‐target effects. Of a total of 4413 potential off‐target sites (allowing ≤5 mismatches within the 20‐bp sgRNA and 3‐bp PAM sequences), the WGS data revealed that only four are bona fide off‐target indel mutations, validated by Sanger sequencing. Moreover, inherent genetic variation of WT can generate novel off‐target sites and destroy PAMs, which suggested great care should be taken to design sgRNA for the minimizing of off‐target effect. These findings suggested that CRISPR/Cas9 system is highly specific for cotton plants.
Genetic control of in vitro morphogenesis in wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca)
Authors: Żebrowska Jadwiga , Dyduch‐Siemińska Magdalena , Gawroński Jacek
Published: October 2018

In vitro morphogenetic potential is a polygenic trait. Polygenes determining this trait can be located in the nuclear and cytoplasmic DNA. In this research, the role of nuclear and cytoplasmic genes in a genetic control of in vitro morphogenesis in Fragaria vesca L. (wild strawberry) was investigated. The study included 4 wild strawberry cultivars, that is, ‘Regina’, ‘Rugia’, ‘Yellow Wonder’ and ‘Baron Solemacher’. The 3rd Griffing method of diallel crossing was useful for achieving the purpose of the research, because it allowed to determine the possible influence of cytoplasmic loci on the inheritance of morphogenetic potential in the cultivars analysed. The cv. ‘Baron Solemacher’ revealed the maternal influence on the inheritance of morphogenetic potential in vitro. The impact of nuclear genes on the morphogenetic potential was recorded for the cv. ‘Yellow Wonder’. In cvs., ‘Regina’ and ‘Rugia’ the influence of both cytoplasmic and nuclear genes on the inheritance of morphogenetic abilities in vitro were observed, which depended on the specific interaction between the maternal plasmotype and the paternal nuclear genes.
Analysis of catalase mutants underscores the essential role of CATALASE2 for plant growth and day length‐dependent oxidative signalling
Authors: Yang Zheng , Mhamdi Amna , Noctor Graham
Published: October 2018

Three genes encode catalase in Arabidopsis. Although the role of CAT2 in photorespiration is well established, the importance of the different catalases in other processes is less clear. Analysis of cat1, cat2, cat3, cat1 cat2, and cat2 cat3 T‐DNA mutants revealed that cat2 had the largest effect on activity in both roots and leaves. Root growth was inhibited in all cat2‐containing lines, but this inhibition was prevented by growing plants at high CO2, suggesting that it is mainly an indirect effect of stress at the leaf level. Analysis of double mutants suggested some overlap between CAT2 and CAT3 functions in leaves and CAT1 and CAT2 in seeds. When plants had been grown to a similar developmental stage in short days or long days, equal‐time exposure to oxidative stress caused by genetic or pharmacological inhibition of catalase produced a much stronger induction of H2O2 marker genes in short day plants. Together, our data (a) underline the importance of CAT2 in basal H2O2 processing in Arabidopsis; (b) suggest that CAT1 and CAT3 are mainly “backup” or stress‐specific enzymes; and (c) establish that day length‐dependent responses to catalase deficiency are independent of the duration of oxidative stress.
Ice segregation in the crown of winter cereals: Evidence for extraorgan and extratissue freezing
Authors: Willick Ian R. , Gusta Lawrence V. , Fowler D. Brian , Tanino Karen K.
Published: October 2018

Meaningful improvements in winter cereal cold hardiness requires a complete model of freezing behaviour in the critical crown organ. Magnetic resonance microimaging diffusion‐weighted experiments provided evidence that cold acclimation decreased water content and mobility in the vascular transition zone (VTZ) and the intermediate zone in rye (Secale cereale L. Hazlet) compared with wheat (Triticum aestivum L. Norstar). Differential thermal analysis, ice nucleation, and localization studies identified three distinct exothermic events. A high‐temperature exotherm (−3°C to −5°C) corresponded with ice formation and high ice‐nucleating activity in the leaf sheath encapsulating the crown. A midtemperature exotherm (−6°C and −8°C) corresponded with cavity ice formation in the VTZ but an absence of ice in the shoot apical meristem (SAM). A low‐temperature exotherm corresponded with SAM injury and the killing temperature in wheat (−21°C) and rye (−27°C). The SAM had lower ice‐nucleating activity and freezing survival compared with the VTZ when frozen in vitro. The intermediate zone was hypothesized to act as a barrier to ice growth into the SAM. Higher cold hardiness of rye compared with wheat was associated with higher VTZ and intermediate zone desiccation resulting in the formation of ice barriers surrounding the SAM.