bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental factors predicting unnecessary ambulance use for their child with acute illness: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ueki Shingo , Komai Kazuyo , Ohashi Kazutomo , Fujita Yuichi , Kitao Mika , Fujiwara Chieko
Published: July 2019

Aims

To examine characteristics of parents of children with acute, albeit mild, illnesses who used ambulance transport unnecessarily.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

From 2016 ‐ 2017, we recruited parents who visited the emergency room of a Japanese paediatric hospital and whose children were discharged without hospitalization. Participants whose children arrived by ambulance were classified as using ambulance services unnecessarily. Participants answered a questionnaire consisting of parents’ characteristics, including health literacy scales and the Parents’ Uncertainty regarding their Children with Acute Illness Scale. We conducted a receiver operating characteristic analysis to convert the Parents’ Uncertainty regarding their Children with Acute Illness Scale results to binary scores. We analysed questionnaire responses using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Analysed data were from 171 participants. The cut‐off score was 59 for the Parents’ Uncertainty regarding their Children with Acute Illness Scale. Results of the logistic regression indicated that parents who did not use resources to obtain information regarding their child's illness, had low health literacy, were observing presenting symptoms for the first time in their child, or had high uncertainty, were significantly more likely to unnecessarily use ambulances.

Conclusion

Publicizing available resources regarding child health information, social healthcare activities to raise parents’ health literacy and providing explanations in accordance with parents’ uncertainty, especially when confronting new symptoms in their child, might reduce unnecessary ambulance use.

Impact

Of patients transported to hospitals by ambulance, the rate of paediatric parents with mild conditions has been found to be high. The study findings could contribute to the appropriateness of using ambulances and have implications for policymakers and healthcare providers, particularly in the Japanese paediatric emergency system. In particular, parental uncertainty, one of four significant characteristics, could be resolved in clinical settings. Generalization for global health services requires further research.
The effects and cost‐effectiveness of an empowerment‐based self‐care programme in patients with chronic heart failure: A study protocol
Authors: Yu Doris S. F. , Li Polly W. C. , Yue Sunny C. S. , Wong John , Yan Bryan , Tsang Kin Keung , Choi Kai Chow
Published: July 2019

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 12‐week empowerment‐based self‐care programme on the cognitive, psychological and behavioural aspects of self‐care, health‐related quality of life and unplanned hospital service use of chronic heart failure patients and to estimate its cost‐effectiveness in reducing unplanned service use.

Study design

Randomized controlled trial with cost‐effectiveness analysis.

Methods

The study will recruit 236 community‐dwelling Chinese patients with chronic heart failure from regional hospitals in Hong Kong. Patients will be randomized in blocks to attend either the 12‐week empowerment‐based self‐care programme or a didactic education programme. Central to the empowerment‐based model is that the patients are the primary decision makers in self‐care and act autonomously to manage the disease. Collaborative approach and interactive teaching strategies are used to optimize patients' engagement and knowledge translation to real‐life practice. Outcome evaluation on self‐care maintenance and management, symptom perception, self‐care confidence, self‐care knowledge, health‐related quality of life and health service use will take place at baseline, on completion of the programme and at 12 weeks thereafter. Generalized estimating equations and Cox regression examine the intervention effects. Bootstrapping technique will be conducted to examine the cost‐effectiveness of the intervention. The study is formally funded in December 2016.

Discussion

Chronic heart failure is associated with high level of hospital admissions, of which 40% is avoidable through effective self‐care. Although self‐care confidence is known to improve self‐care, no structured educative method has been developed to enhance this attribute. This study addresses this research gap with a stringent application of theory and research design.

Impact

The study illustrates the application of the empowerment model for self‐care enhancement in patients with chronic heart failure. The findings will inform the ways and values of this care model to enhance the disease management of this expanding clinical cohort.
Therapeutic effect of early intensive antihypertensive treatment on rebleeding and perihematomal edema in acute intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Zang Yanjing , Zhang Chenhao , Song Qin , Zhang Jing , Li Hongxuan , Zhang Chunliang , Feng Shanshan , Gu Fang
Published: July 2019

To observe the effect of early intensive blood pressure (BP)–lowering treatment on rebleeding and perihematomal edema (PE) in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). A total of 121 patients with ICH were randomly assigned to an early intensive antihypertensive treatment group (IG) (n = 62) or control group (CG) (n = 59). For both groups, 25 mg of urapidil injection was slowly administered intravenously in 6 hours of the onset. For the IG, 100 mg of urapidil and 30 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride were then slowly administered. Repeat computed tomography imaging was performed at 24 hours, 72 hours, day 7, and day 14 to detect any rebleeding via changes in hematoma volume and the changes in PE. Finally, NIHSS scores and Barthel Index (BI) were calculated at 24 hours, 72 hours, day 7, day 14, day 30, and day 90. The average hematoma volume in IG patients was significantly smaller than that of CG patients after 24 hours (P < .05). The volume of PE in the CG increased more than in the IG within 24 hours of onset, but was not statistically significant (P > .05); however, this trend was statistically significant after 72 hours (P < .05). On day 30 and day 90, the average NIHSS score of IG patients was lower than that of CG patients, and the BI was higher (P < .05) than that of CG patients. There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups. Early intensive antihypertensive treatment in ICH patients reduces rebleeding and PE, improving short‐term quality of life.
Relationship between 24‐hour urinary sodium excretion and blood pressure in the adult population in Shandong, China
Authors: Han Weizhong , Wang Wei , Sun Ningling , Li Min , Chen Lianghua , Jiang Shiliang , Chen Yunchao , Han Xiao
Published: July 2019

The main objective of this study was to determine baseline salt intake levels in a sample of the adult population of Shandong province and to establish the relationship between urinary sodium excretion and blood pressure. A total of 512 participants were recruited, and all the participants provided complete 24‐hour urine collections. Physical assessment and socioeconomic status of participants were collected at the same time. The mean 24‐hour urinary sodium excretion of all subjects was 228.0 ± 127.5 mmol/24 hours. Estimated salt intake was higher in obese subjects (17.6 ± 8.8 g/d) compared with overweight subjects (15.6 ± 8.0 g/d) and those with a normal BMI (13.9 ± 6.8 g/d). Likewise, urinary sodium excretion of hypertensive participants was dramatically higher than that of non‐hypertensive ones, the equivalent of 18.2 ± 9.1 g/d vs 13.3 ± 6.8 g/d. Urinary sodium was significantly associated with SBP (β = 1.08, P = .018) after adjustment for potential confounders. In summary, we found significantly high levels of salt intake in Shandong Province, particularly in obese and hypertension subjects. It is quite important to improve public education about reducing salt intake to control blood pressure among Shandong people.
Coronally advanced flap and envelope type of flap plus acellular dermal matrix graft for the treatment of thin phenotype multiple recession defects. A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ahmedbeyli Cavid , Dirikan Ipçi Sebnem , Cakar Gokser , Yılmaz Selcuk , Chambrone Leandro
Published: July 2019

Introduction

The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to assess the aesthetical and clinical outcomes of acellular dermal matrix graft (ADMG) plus coronally advanced flap (CAF) with vertical incisions or the envelope flap in the treatment of thin phenotype, multiple‐recession defects.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐two participants with 55 class recession type 1 (RT1) with a depth of ≥3 mm were investigated. Control group was treated with ADMG plus conventional CAF with vertical releasing incisions, whereas test group received the envelope flap with ADMG. Primary outcome variables were complete root coverage (CRC), root coverage aesthetic score and patient satisfaction.

Results

Tooth‐based CRC was observed in 23 of the 28 recession defects in mCAF + ADMG group (82.1%), whereas in 19 of the 27 recession defects in CAF + ADMG group (70.37%), with no inter‐group difference (p > .05). CRC was observed in 9 of the 11 patients in mCAF + ADMG group (81.8%). On the other hand, in CAF + ADMG group, CRC was achieved in 8 of the 11 patients (72.7%). Results were similar between the groups (p > .05).

Conclusions

Both techniques were successful in the management of multiple recessions; however, superior results regarding patient's satisfaction were achieved with mCAF + ADMG.
Albumin for cirrhotic patients with extraperitoneal infections: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Leão Gabriel Stefani , John Neto Guilherme , Jotz Raquel de Freitas , Mattos Angelo Alves de , Mattos Ângelo Zambam de
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Bacterial infections are among the main causes of death in patients with cirrhosis. While there are unquestionable benefits of using albumin in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, the benefits of albumin are controversial for those with extraperitoneal infections. The aim was to compare the use of albumin associated to antibiotics and antibiotics alone in cirrhotic patients with extraperitoneal infections.

Methods

A systematic review was performed using MEDLINE and Embase databases. Randomized controlled trials comparing albumin associated to antibiotics and antibiotics alone in cirrhotic patients with extraperitoneal infections were considered eligible, as long as at least one of the following outcomes was evaluated: mortality and renal dysfunction. Meta‐analysis was performed using the random effects model, through the Mantel–Haenszel method. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO platform (CRD42018107191).

Results

The literature search yielded 812 references. Three randomized controlled trials fulfilled the selection criteria and were included in this meta‐analysis. There was no evidence of significant difference between the groups regarding mortality in 30 days (risk ratio [RR] = 1.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92–2.84, P = 0.09, I2 = 0%) or in 90 days (RR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.89–1.83, P = 0.19, I2 = 0%). Regarding renal dysfunction, there was also no evidence of significant difference between the groups (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.25–1.19, P = 0.13, I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

There is no evidence of significant benefits of using albumin for cirrhotic patients with extraperitoneal infections regarding mortality or renal dysfunction.
Epidemiological profile of young patients with squamous cell carcinoma in northeast Brazil
Authors: Borba Ribeiro Karen Rayssa , Lira Júnior Cledinaldo , Marinho Sandra Aparecida , de Carvalho Sérgio Henrique Gonçalves , Agripino Gustavo Gomes , Sarmento Dmitry José de Santana
Published: July 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to delineate the epidemiological profile of young patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) treated at a healthcare service in northeastern Brazil.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed involving the quantitative analysis of 51 medical records from patients diagnosed with SCC between 1998 and 2013. All patients aged ≤50 years were included in the study. Statistical analysis involved Pearson's χ2‐test, Fisher's exact test, and the Mann‐Whitney U‐test, with the level of significance set at 5% (P < .05).

Results

The mean age was 46 ± 7.94 years, and males accounted for 80.4% of the sample. The tongue was the most affected site (37.3%). Most tumors were classified as stage III (26.3%) or IV (42.1%). Surgery associated with chemotherapy was the most common therapeutic approach (39.3%). Female patients had a lower mean age (P = .013) and less advanced clinical staging (P = .022). Smoking was more associated with male sex (P = .043).

Conclusion

SCC in young patients is more common in males aged 46 ± 7.94 years, with the tongue being the most affected anatomic site. Important differences were found in clinical‐epidemiological features between young men and women.
Topical insulin‐liposomal formulation in management of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: El‐Wakeel Naglaa M. , Morsi Nadia M. , Ghorab Dalia M. , Yassin Ghada E. , Dawoud Marwa H. S.
Published: July 2019

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of topical insulin‐liposomal gel in aphthous ulcer treatment.

Methods

80 participants with minor aphthous ulcers were randomly divided to receive either topical insulin‐liposomal gel or placebo gel (once daily) for 6 days. Assessment of outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) for pain (primary outcome), and secondary outcomes included ulcer duration and impact of treatment on quality of life using the Oral Health Impact Profile 14 (OHIP‐14). Testing of the outcomes was carried out at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 days after treatment for VAS and at 6 days for OHIP‐14.

Results

For pain scores, the test group showed a significant decrease by time, this was evident from day 1 (P < .001); at day 3, median and interquartile range (IQR) values were 0 (0‐1). For the placebo group, a non‐significant change by time was reported between baseline and day 1; at day 3, the median value was 7 (IQR, 7‐9). The test group showed significantly lower mean duration than the placebo group (P < .001). OHIP‐14 scores after 6 days showed that the test group had a significantly lower score than placebo (P < .001).

Conclusions

Topical insulin‐liposomal formulation showed marked effectiveness in management of aphthous ulcers.
A molecular toolbox for studying protein degradation in mammalian cells
Authors: Eldeeb Mohamed A. , Siva‐Piragasam Ramanaguru , Ragheb Mohamed A. , Esmaili Mansoore , Salla Mohamed , Fahlman Richard P.
Published: July 2019

Protein degradation is a crucial regulatory process in maintaining cellular proteostasis. The selective degradation of intracellular proteins controls diverse cellular and biochemical processes in all kingdoms of life. Targeted protein degradation is implicated in controlling the levels of regulatory proteins as well as eliminating misfolded and any otherwise abnormal proteins. Deregulation of protein degradation is concomitant with the progression of various neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Thus, methods of measuring metabolic half‐lives of proteins greatly influence our understanding of the diverse functions of proteins in mammalian cells including neuronal cells. Historically, protein degradation rates have been studied via exploiting methods that estimate overall protein degradation or focus on few individual proteins. Notably, with the recent technical advances and developments in proteomic and imaging techniques, it is now possible to measure degradation rates of a large repertoire of defined proteins and analyze the degradation profile in a detailed spatio‐temporal manner, with the aim of determining proteome‐wide protein stabilities upon different physiological conditions. Herein, we discuss some of the classical and novel methods for determining protein degradation rates highlighting the crucial role of some state of art approaches in deciphering the global impact of dynamic nature of targeted degradation of cellular proteins.

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This article is part of the Special Issue “Proteomics”
C2‐lacking isoform of Nedd4‐2 regulates excitatory synaptic strength through GluA1 ubiquitination‐independent mechanisms
Authors: Zhu Jiuhe , Lee Kwan Young , Jong Tiffany T. , Tsai Nien‐Pei
Published: July 2019

Neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated gene 4‐like (Nedd4‐2) is an epilepsy‐associated gene, which encodes a ubiquitin E3 ligase that is highly expressed in the brain. Nedd4‐2’s substrates include many ion channels and receptors because its N‐terminal C2 domain guides Nedd4‐2 to the cell membrane. We previously found that Nedd4‐2 ubiquitinates the glutamate receptor subunit 1 (GluA1) subunit of the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor, which leads to reduction of neuronal excitability and seizures in mice. However, despite awareness of a Nedd4‐2 isoform with no C2 domain, the functions of this isoform remain elusive. In this study, we showed that the C2‐lacking Nedd4‐2 has reduced membrane distribution and exhibits reduced affinity toward ubiquitinating GluA1. However, when expressed in primary cortical neurons, we found that the C2‐lacking Nedd4‐2 exhibits a similar activity toward reducing excitatory synaptic strength as does the C2‐containing Nedd4‐2. In an attempt to identify novel Nedd4‐2 substrates that could mediate excitatory synaptic strength, we used unbiased proteomic screening and found multiple synaptic regulators that were up‐regulated in the brain of conditional Nedd4‐2 knockout mice, including protein phosphatase 3 catalytic subunit‐α (PPP3CA; alternately called calcineurin A‐α). We confirmed PPP3CA as a substrate of the C2‐lacking Nedd4‐2 and showed that all three epilepsy‐associated missense mutations of Nedd4‐2 disrupted PPP3CA ubiquitination. Altogether, our results revealed novel potential Nedd4‐2 substrates and suggest that the C2‐lacking Nedd4‐2 represses excitatory synaptic strength most likely through GluA1 ubiquitination‐independent mechanisms. These findings provide novel information to further our knowledge about Nedd4‐2‐dependent neuronal excitability homeostasis and pathological hyperexcitability when Nedd4‐2 is compromised.

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Comparison of topical antiaging creams in the management of lateral canthal lines
Authors: Carroll Julia M. , Hanna Sam , Guenther Lyn C. , Boucher Nathalie
Published: July 2019

Objective

This study compared an antiaging treatment with two currently marketed cosmetic antiaging products for the treatment of lateral canthal lines ("crow's feet").

Methods

Healthy female volunteers (72) aged of 54.6 years (mean) having fine‐to‐moderate wrinkles in the lateral canthal areas were randomized to one of three treatments applied daily over 28 days: Group A (Purgenesis™ Day Cream, Purgenesis™ Eye Cream, and Purgenesis™ Night Cream); Group B (Prevage® Eye Lotion, Prevage® Day Cream, and Prevage® Night Cream); or Group C (La Mer® Eye Balm, Crème de La Mer®, and La Mer® Night Cream). The effects on anti‐wrinkle properties and for sensory attributes and general performance were evaluated on Days 1, 7, and 28.

Results

Skin hydration improved significantly at all time points in Groups A and B, and at Day 28 in Group C. Group A patients experienced significant improvements in measured skin elasticity parameters at Day 28; extensibility and maximum amplitude were significantly better at Day 28 in Groups B and C. Benefits were also seen in profilometric parameters with statistical significance only in Group A Volunteer tolerance was good with all three treatments, although moderate and high levels of adverse events were numerically higher in Group B than in Groups A or C, and levels of slight discomfort were significantly more prevalent in Group B.

Conclusion

The Purgenesis™ antiaging treatment significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and profilometry parameters during a 28‐day study. This therapy was found to be well tolerated and effective in countering the cutaneous signs of aging.
Advances in dermatology using DNA aptamer “Aptamin C” innovation: Oxidative stress prevention and effect maximization of vitamin C through antioxidation
Authors: Choi Sooho , Han Jeongmin , Kim Ji Hyun , Kim A‐Ru , Kim Sang‐Heon , Lee Weontae , Yoon Moon‐Young , Kim Gyuyoup , Kim Yoon‐Seong
Published: July 2019

Background

Vitamin C (also known as L‐ascorbic acid) plays a critical role in reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction and cell regeneration by protecting cell from oxidative stress. Although vitamin C is widely used in cosmetic and therapeutic markets, there is considerable evidence that vitamin C easily undergoes oxidation by air, pH, temperature, and UV light upon storage. This deficiency of vitamin C decreases its potency as an antioxidant and reduces the shelf‐life of products containing vitamin C as its ingredient. To overcome the deficiency of vitamin C, we have developed Aptamin C, an innovative DNA aptamer maximizing the antioxidant efficacy of vitamin C by binding to the reduced form of vitamin C and delaying its oxidation.

Methods

Binding of Aptamin C with vitamin C was determined using ITC analysis. ITC experiment was performed 0.2 mmol/L vitamin C that was injected 25 times in 2 µL aliquots into the 1.8 mL sample cell containing the Aptamin C at a concentration of 0.02 mmol/L. The data were fitted to a one‐site binding isotherm using with origin program for ITC v.5.0.

Results

To investigate the effect of Aptamin C and vitamin C complex in human skins, both in vitro and clinical tests were performed. We observed that the complex of Aptamin C and vitamin C was significantly effective in wrinkle improvement, whitening effect, and hydration increase. In the clinical test, subjects treated with the complex showed dramatic improvement in skin irritation and itching. No adverse reaction was presented by Aptamin C complex in the test.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results showed that Aptamin C, an innovative novel compound, should potentially be served as a key cosmeceutical ingredient for a range of skin conditions.
Pilot study: Autologous platelet‐rich plasma used in a topical cream for facial rejuvenation
Authors: Draelos Zoe Diana , Rheins Lawrence A. , Wootten Shaun , Kellar Robert S. , Diller Robert B.
Published: July 2019

Background

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is traditionally used as an injectable material for enhanced healing, hair growth, and facial rejuvenation.

Aims

This research examined the novel use of topical autologously sourced PRP added to a preservative cosmetic base and applied twice daily to the face following electroporation for 8 weeks.

Methods

20 healthy female and male subjects 30‐60 years of age were enrolled in this single‐site, investigator blinded, vehicle controlled split‐face study to evaluate the effect of a PRP‐containing serum versus the serum alone on facial photoaging.

Results

90 day stability for the PRP in a preservative serum was achieved with refrigeration at 4 degrees Celsius. Facial skin biopsy histologic findings included improved rete peg architecture. Immunohistochemical analysis showed upregulation for collagen type I with qPCR data demonstrating concomitant upregulation of mRNA for collagen after 8 weeks of topical PRP use.

Conclusion

These pilot study findings may indicate value for topical PRP in facial rejuvenation.
ECONOMIC EXPERIMENTS, HYPOTHETICAL SURVEYS AND MARKET DATA STUDIES OF INSURANCE DEMAND AGAINST LOW‐PROBABILITY/HIGH‐IMPACT RISKS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF DESIGNS, THEORETICAL INSIGHTS AND DETERMINANTS OF DEMAND
Authors: Robinson Peter John , Botzen Willem Jan Wouter
Published: July 2019

This paper provides a systematic review of the literature on 80 experimental, hypothetical survey and market data studies of insurance demand against low‐probability/high‐impact risks. The objective of the review is to extract lessons from these studies and to outline an agenda for future research. We contrast the results of experimental and survey studies to findings from market data. We focus on experimental design methods, insurance characteristics, as well as results about theories, heuristics, behavioural biases and explanatory variables. Lessons for policymakers are drawn which can facilitate disaster preparedness.
Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Female Adolescents: Relations with Parental Psychopathology and Parenting Behavior
Authors: Rasing Sanne P. A. , Braam Marloes W. G. , Brunwasser Steven M. , Janssens Jan M. A. M. , Creemers Daan H. M. , Scholte Ron H. J.
Published: July 2019

Parental psychopathology and parenting behavior are known to be related to adolescents depression and anxiety, but unique roles of mothers and fathers are not clear. Our aim was to examine the relation of maternal and paternal psychopathology, emotional support, and respect for autonomy, and their interaction to depression and anxiety symptoms in adolescents. In total, 142 female adolescents participated, together with 138 mothers and 113 fathers. Data were analyzed using latent growth curve modeling. Paternal emotional support was negatively related to adolescent baseline level of depression and anxiety symptoms. Further, we found that there was a positive association between respect for autonomy and depression symptoms in adolescents for higher levels of paternal symptoms of psychological problems.
Understanding children's acceptability after repeated exposure and household‐level behaviors for novel extruded fortified blended foods
Authors: Chanadang Sirichat , Chambers Edgar
Published: July 2019

Fortified blended foods (FBFs) were developed to deliver sufficient nutrients for children's development. These products must be acceptable to target populations: children who eat the food and caregivers who prepare it. Five extruded FBFs and one current FBF (corn‐soy blend plus [CSB+]) were made. Acceptability tests of porridges made from each FBF were conducted with children in Tanzania over a 20‐week period. An interview and household visit were conducted to collect information on household behaviors including preparation, consumption, and storage practices. Acceptance testing showed that children's acceptability of porridges of all FBFs increased over time perhaps due to the repeated exposure to the products. However, CSB+ porridge had lower acceptability from children at the end of the study, probably because of the lack of sweetness. Moreover, porridges made from novel FBFs required less cooking time than CSB+ and no ingredients needed to be added compared to CSB+ where sugar and milk were common additions. Novel FBFs have potential as alternative supplementary foods with higher acceptability. The simple cooking for novel FBFs make them valuable to caregivers with limited time and access to energy sources and nutrient‐rich ingredients.

Practical Applications

This study suggests that children may increase liking of some food products after repeated exposure and may increase liking more for some food products than for others over an extended time period. That is true even when those products were equally liked in an initial taste test. In addition, for caregivers, some food products clearly are easier to use and may save on other scarce resources, which may make them more likely to be provided to young children, especially in food aid situations where nutrition is key.
Organic trace minerals on productive performance, egg quality and immune response in Bovans White laying hens
Authors: Ramos‐Vidales David , Gómez‐Verduzco Gabriela , Cortes‐Cuevas Arturo , del Río‐García Juan Carlos , Fernández‐Tinoco Sergio , Chárraga‐Aguilar Silvestre , Ávila‐González Ernesto
Published: July 2019

This study was performed in 360 laying Bovans White hens and aimed to evaluate the effect of Carbo‐Amino‐Phosphate‐Chelates (CAFQ) as a mineral premix and its 30% reduction by compared to inorganic trace minerals (ITM) concerning its performance, egg quality, tibia breaking strength and immunity. Sixty‐week‐old hens were assigned into three treatments with 10 replicates of 12 birds each. Treatments were as follows: (a) (100% ITM), (b) (100% CAFQ) and (c) (70% CAFQ). Based on the results obtained during 12 weeks, under the current test conditions, improved yolk colour (p < 0.05); shell breaking strength (p < 0.05); and storage time (p < 0.05) were observed in hens fed with a diet reduced by 70% in CAFQ inclusion showed similar performance behaviour and better egg breaking strength regarding with ITM, suggesting the possibility of minimizing the inclusion of trace minerals in laying hen diets improving environmental impact, in contrast to the use of inorganic sources of minerals.
Retreatment with elbasvir, grazoprevir, sofosbuvir ± ribavirin is effective for GT3 and GT1/4/6 HCV infection after relapse
Authors: Papaluca Timothy , Sinclair Marie , Gow Paul , Pianko Stephen , Sievert William , Arachchi Niranjan , Cameron Karla , Bowden Scott , O’Keefe Jacinta , Doyle Joseph , Stoove Mark , Hellard Margaret , Iser David , Thompson Alexander
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Despite highly effective direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) therapies for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, some patients experience virological relapse. Salvage regimens should include multiple agents to suppress emergence of resistance‐associated substitutions (RAS) and minimise treatment failure. The combination of sofosbuvir (SOF) and elbasvir/grazoprevir (ELB/GZR) ±ribavirin (RBV) is an effective retreatment strategy for HCV genotype (GT)1 and 4 infection. We hypothesised that SOF and ELB/GZR (±RBV) would also be an effective salvage regimen for DAA‐experienced GT3 patients.

Methods

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of SOF/ELB/GZR ± RBV in DAA‐experienced participants with chronic HCV infection who had prior relapse. Participants were treated at four hospitals between December 2016 and March 2018 for either 12‐ or 16‐weeks. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response at week 12 post‐treatment (SVR12) using intention‐to‐treat analysis.

Results

There were 40 participants included in the analysis. The mean age was 53 years, 53% had GT3, 33% had GT1 infection and 63% had cirrhosis. Fifty‐eight percent were treated for 12 weeks, 42% were treated for 16 weeks and 90% received RBV. The SVR12 rate was 98% overall, 100% in non‐GT3 participants and 95% in GT3 participants. One GT3 cirrhotic participant relapsed. ELB/GZR was stopped at week 6 in one GT3 cirrhotic participant who switched to SOF/velpatasvir/RBV for a further 12 weeks and achieved SVR12. RBV dose reduction was required in two participants. Treatment was otherwise well tolerated.

Discussion

The combination of SOF/ELB/GZR ± RBV is effective and safe for difficult‐to‐cure patients who relapse after first‐line DAA, including those with cirrhosis and GT3 infection.
Did social cognition evolve by cultural group selection?
Authors: Morin Olivier
Published: July 2019

Cognitive gadgets puts forward an ambitious claim: language, mindreading, and imitation evolved by cultural group selection. Defending this claim requires more than Heyes' spirited and effective critique of nativist claims. The latest human “cognitive gadgets,” such as literacy, did not spread through cultural group selection. Why should social cognition be different? The book leaves this question pending. It also makes strong assumptions regarding cultural evolution: it is moved by selection rather than transformation; it relies on high‐fidelity imitation; it requires specific cognitive adaptations to cultural learning. Each of these assumptions raises crucial yet unaddressed difficulties.
Mixing Grammar Exercises Facilitates Long‐Term Retention: Effects of Blocking, Interleaving, and Increasing Practice
Authors: NAKATA TATSUYA , SUZUKI YUICHI
Published: July 2019

Cognitive psychology research has shown that interleaving, wherein learners practice multiple skills or concepts at once, facilitates learning more than does blocking, wherein learners practice only one skill or concept at a time. Despite the advantage of interleaving over blocking observed across a number of domains, limited attention has been devoted to the effects of interleaving on second language (L2) learning. This study examined the effects of blocking and interleaving on L2 grammar learning. In this study, 115 Japanese learners studied 5 English grammatical structures under 1 of 3 conditions: blocking, interleaving, and increasing (i.e., blocking followed by interleaving). Learning was measured using a grammaticality judgment test administered immediately and 1 week after the treatment. Although interleaving led to the highest number of incorrect responses during training, it was more effective than blocking in the 1‐week delayed posttest. These results indicate that the advantage of interleaving extends to L2 grammar learning. Furthermore, learners’ levels of prior knowledge were found to moderate the effects of interleaving. Specifically, participants with lower pretest scores benefited more from interleaving compared to those with higher pretest scores. Pedagogically, the findings suggest that grammar learning may be enhanced by incorporating interleaved practice.
Cognitive Individual Differences as Predictors of Improvement and Awareness Under Implicit and Explicit Feedback Conditions
Authors: YILMAZ YUCEL , GRANENA GISELA
Published: July 2019

The present study investigated a group of cognitive individual differences considered advantageous in second language learning and their role in language learning under implicit and explicit feedback conditions using both language awareness and language development measures. The study further investigated whether different types of awareness are related to language development. One hundred and twelve intermediate English learners of Spanish at a U.S. university were administered tests from 2 language aptitude test batteries (Hi‐LAB and LLAMA) and were randomly assigned to an implicit feedback (recast), explicit feedback (explicit correction), or control group. The 2 feedback groups received feedback on the target linguistic form (i.e., Spanish noun–adjective gender agreement) according to their group assignment in 2 treatment sessions. Learners’ knowledge of the linguistic target was measured using a grammaticality judgment test and an oral production task immediately before and after the treatment. Learners’ ability to notice the corrective function and linguistic target of the feedback was measured by means of a posttask debriefing questionnaire. Implicit sequence learning ability and error awareness predicted the implicit group's pretest–posttest improvement, whereas phonological short‐term memory predicted the explicit group's pretest–posttest improvement. Phonemic coding ability, attention control, and processing speed further predicted learners’ awareness in the implicit feedback group.
Transient thyrotoxicosis‐aggravated attacks of paralysis in a patient with hereditary hypokalemic periodic paralysis type 2
Authors: Nagamatsu Shu‐ichi , Osaki Yasushi , Morita Yukari , Miyamoto Yuka , Mori Itsuki , Kubota Tomoya , Takahashi Masanori P. , Furushima Tomomi , Furuya Hirokazu
Published: July 2019

We report a case with hereditary hypokalemic paralysis type 2 in whom thyrotoxicosis aggravated his attacks of paralysis. He experienced paralytic attacks several times a year from 24 years of age and was clinically diagnosed with hypokalemic periodic paralysis. At 49 years of age, a laboratory examination showed normal thyroid function. At 57 years of age, transient thyrotoxicosis was accompanied with an increase of the frequency and severity of attacks. Gene analysis revealed a missense mutation (c.2015G>A, p.R672H) in SCN4A, a known pathogenic mutation for hypokalemic paralysis type 2. This case highlights the importance of checking thyroid function when the frequency and severity of attacks are increased in patients with periodic paralysis.
Efficacy of a plant‐produced virus‐like particle vaccine in chickens challenged with Influenza A H6N2 virus
Authors: Smith Tanja , O'Kennedy Martha M. , Wandrag Daniel B.R. , Adeyemi Modupeore , Abolnik Celia
Published: July 2019

The efficacy, safety, speed, scalability and cost‐effectiveness of producing hemagglutinin‐based virus‐like particle (VLP) vaccines in plants are well‐established for human influenza, but untested for the massive poultry influenza vaccine market that remains dominated by traditional egg‐grown oil‐emulsion whole inactivated virus vaccines. For optimal efficacy, a vaccine should be closely antigenically matched to the field strain, requiring that influenza A vaccines be updated regularly. In this study, an H6 subtype VLP transiently expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana was formulated into a vaccine and evaluated for efficacy in chickens against challenge with a heterologous H6N2 virus. A single dose of the plant‐produced H6 VLP vaccine elicited an immune response comparable to two doses of a commercial inactivated H6N2 vaccine, with mean hemagglutination inhibition titres of 9.3 log2 and 8.8 log2, respectively. Compared to the non‐vaccinated control, the H6 VLP vaccine significantly reduced the proportion of shedders and the magnitude of viral shedding by >100‐fold in the oropharynx and >6‐fold in the cloaca, and shortened oropharyngeal viral shedding by at least a week. Despite its potency, the cost of the antigenic mismatch between the inactivated H6N2 vaccine and challenge strain was evident not only in this vaccine's failure to reduce viral shedding compared to the non‐vaccinated group, but its apparent exacerbation of oropharyngeal viral shedding until 21 days post‐challenge. We estimate that a kilogram of plant leaf material can produce H6 VLP vaccines sufficient for between 5000 and 30 000 chickens, depending on the effective dose and whether one or two immunizations are administered.
AKR2A participates in the regulation of cotton fibre development by modulating biosynthesis of very‐long‐chain fatty acids
Authors: Hu Wenjun , Chen Lin , Qiu Xiaoyun , Wei Jia , Lu Hongling , Sun Guochang , Ma Xiongfeng , Yang Zuoren , Zhu Chunquan , Hou Yuqi , Han Xiao , Sun Chunyan , Hu Rongbin , Cai Yifan , Zhang Hong , Li Fuguang , Shen Guoxin
Published: July 2019

The biosynthesis of very‐long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and their transport are required for fibre development. However, whether other regulatory factors are involved in this process is unknown. We report here that overexpression of an Arabidopsis gene ankyrin repeat‐containing protein 2A (AKR2A) in cotton promotes fibre elongation. RNA‐Seq analysis was employed to elucidate the mechanisms of AKR2A in regulating cotton fibre development. The VLCFA content and the ratio of VLCFAs to short‐chain fatty acids increased in AKR2A transgenic lines. In addition, AKR2A promotes fibre elongation by regulating ethylene and synergizing with the accumulation of auxin and hydrogen peroxide. Analysis of RNA‐Seq data indicates that AKR2A up‐regulates transcript levels of genes involved in VLCFAs’ biosynthesis, ethylene biosynthesis, auxin and hydrogen peroxide signalling, cell wall and cytoskeletal organization. Furthermore, AKR2A interacted with KCS1 in Arabidopsis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the VLCFA content and the ratio of VLCFAs to short‐chain fatty acids increased significantly in seeds of AKR2A‐overexpressing lines and AKR2A/KCS1 co‐overexpressing lines, while AKR2A mutants are the opposite trend. Our results uncover a novel cotton fibre growth mechanism by which the critical regulator AKR2A promotes fibre development via activating hormone signalling cascade by mediating VLCFA biosynthesis. This study provides a potential candidate gene for improving fibre yield and quality through genetic engineering.
Heterologous expression of the apple hexose transporter MdHT2.2 altered sugar concentration with increasing cell wall invertase activity in tomato fruit
Authors: Wang Zhengyang , Wei Xiaoyu , Yang Jingjing , Li Huixia , Ma Baiquan , Zhang Kaikai , Zhang Yanfeng , Cheng Lailiang , Ma Fengwang , Li Mingjun
Published: July 2019

Sugar transporters are necessary to transfer hexose from cell wall spaces into parenchyma cells to boost hexose accumulation to high concentrations in fruit. Here, we have identified an apple hexose transporter (HTs), MdHT2.2, located in the plasma membrane, which is highly expressed in mature fruit. In a yeast system, the MdHT2.2 protein exhibited high 14C‐fructose and 14C‐glucose transport activity. In transgenic tomato heterologously expressing MdHT2.2, the levels of both fructose and glucose increased significantly in mature fruit, with sugar being unloaded via the apoplastic pathway, but the level of sucrose decreased significantly. Analysis of enzyme activity and the expression of genes related to sugar metabolism and transport revealed greatly up‐regulated expression of SlLIN5, a key gene encoding cell wall invertase (CWINV), as well as increased CWINV activity in tomatoes transformed with MdHT2.2. Moreover, the levels of fructose, glucose and sucrose recovered nearly to those of the wild type in the sllin5‐edited mutant of the MdHT2.2‐expressing lines. However, the overexpression of MdHT2.2 decreased hexose levels and increased sucrose levels in mature leaves and young fruit, suggesting that the response pathway for the apoplastic hexose signal differs among tomato tissues. The present study identifies a new HTs in apple that is able to take up fructose and glucose into cells and confirms that the apoplastic hexose levels regulated by HT controls CWINV activity to alter carbohydrate partitioning and sugar content.
Aboveground phytochemical responses to belowground herbivory in poplar trees and the consequence for leaf herbivore preference
Authors: Lackner Sandra , Lackus Nathalie D. , Paetz Christian , Köllner Tobias G. , Unsicker Sybille B.
Published: July 2019

Belowground (BG) herbivory can influence aboveground (AG) herbivore performance and food preference via changes in plant chemistry. Most evidence for this phenomenon derives from studies in herbaceous plants but studies in woody plants are scarce. Here we investigated whether and how BG herbivory on black poplar (Populus nigra) trees by Melolontha melolontha larvae influences the feeding preference of Lymantria dispar (gypsy moth) caterpillars. In a food choice assay, caterpillars preferred to feed on leaves from trees that had experienced attack by BG herbivores. Therefore, we investigated the effect of BG herbivory on the phytochemical composition of P. nigra trees alone and in combination with AG feeding by L. dispar caterpillars. BG herbivory did not increase systemic AG tree defences like volatile organic compounds, protease inhibitors and salicinoids. Jasmonates and salicylic acid were also not induced by BG herbivory in leaves but abscisic acid concentrations drastically increased together with proline and few other amino acids. Leaf coating experiments with amino acids suggest that proline might be responsible for the caterpillar feeding preference via presumptive phagostimulatory properties. This study shows that BG herbivory in poplar can modify the feeding preference of AG herbivores via phytochemical changes as a consequence of root‐to‐shoot signaling.
Isoprene: New insights into the control of emission and mediation of stress tolerance by gene expression
Authors: Lantz Alexandra T. , Allman Joshua , Weraduwage Sarathi M. , Sharkey Thomas D.
Published: July 2019

Isoprene is a volatile compound produced in large amounts by some, but not all, plants by the enzyme isoprene synthase. Plants emit vast quantities of isoprene, with a net global output of 600 Tg per year, and typical emission rates from individual plants around 2% of net carbon assimilation. There is significant debate about whether global climate change resulting from increasing CO2 in the atmosphere will increase or decrease global isoprene emission in the future. We show evidence supporting predictions of increased isoprene emission in the future, but the effects could vary depending on the environment under consideration. For many years, isoprene was believed to have immediate, physical effects on plants such as changing membrane properties or quenching reactive oxygen species. Although observations sometimes supported these hypotheses, the effects were not always observed, and the reasons for the variability were not apparent. Although there may be some physical effects, recent studies show that isoprene has significant effects on gene expression, the proteome, and the metabolome of both emitting and nonemitting species. Consistent results are seen across species and specific treatment protocols. This review summarizes recent findings on the role and control of isoprene emission from plants.
Recent advances of nucleotide nutrition research in aquaculture: a review
Authors: Hossain Md. Sakhawat , Koshio Shunsuke , Kestemont Patrick
Published: July 2019

Although nucleotides (NT) have long been implicated as feed attractants in both vertebrate and invertebrate species, research into potential growth and health benefits of dietary NT in aquaculture species has just been implemented in early 2000s. To date, research pertaining to NT supplementation in aquafeed as functional nutrients has shown rather consistent and encouraging, beneficial results in fish and shrimp health management. Dietary NT serve a marked role to enhance growth in early stages of development, improve reproductive performances of brood fish, enhance larval quality, increase stress and disease resistance, modulate immune functions and improve intestinal morphology and gut microbiota of fish and shrimp. NT have also been used as functional supplement in alternative protein based diet, where NT was found as an effective supplement to increase the efficiency of utilizing alternative proteins. However, still there are numerous gaps in existing knowledge about exogenous NT administration to fish and shrimp including various aspects of digestion, absorption, metabolism, administration duration and age/size‐related responses. Adoption of different molecular technologies, like proteome modification and study of several gene expression pattern related to growth, immunity, gut health and stress resistance in details are important for exploring the underlying mechanisms of NT functions in improved growth and health performances of fish and shrimp. Efforts are also needed on production technologies to reduce the NT cost. Moreover, extensive research information is also required regarding the use of NT in alternative protein and lipid based diet to develop cost‐effective, ecofriendly functional aquafeed in near future.
Adolescent Suicide Attempt Prevention: Predictors of Response to a Cognitive–Behavioral Family and Youth Centered Intervention
Authors: Babeva Kalina N. , Klomhaus Alexandra M. , Sugar Catherine A. , Fitzpatrick Olivia , Asarnow Joan R.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Suicide is a leading cause of adolescent death. Recent data support the efficacy of cognitive–behavioral treatments with strong family components for reducing suicide risk; however, not all youth benefit from current interventions. Identifying predictors of treatment response can inform treatment selection and optimize benefits.

Method

This study examines predictors of response to a DBT‐informed cognitive–behavioral family treatment (SAFETY), among 50 youth with recent suicide attempts/self‐harm. Youth and parents were assessed at baseline and post‐treatment.

Results

Results indicated medium‐to‐large effect sizes for SAFETY on youth suicidal behavior (SB; defined as suicide attempts, aborted attempts, and planning), depression, hopelessness, social adjustment, and parental depression. Classification tree analysis, with a correct classification rate of 93.3%, and follow‐up logistic analyses indicated that 35% of youths reporting active SB at baseline reported active SB at post‐treatment, whereas post‐treatment SB was rare among youths whose active suicidality had resolved by the baseline assessment (5%). Among youths reporting baseline SB, those endorsing sleep problems were more likely to report post‐treatment SB (53%) versus those without sleep problems (0%).

Conclusions

These findings highlight the potential value of personalized treatment approaches based on pretreatment characteristics and the significance of baseline SB and sleep problems for predicting treatment response.