bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preference, performance, and impact of the water‐lily aphid on multiple species of duckweed
Authors: Subramanian Swapna K. , Turcotte Martin M.
Published: August 2020

The role of herbivores in driving the structure of freshwater macrophyte communities remains poorly understood in comparison with terrestrial ecosystems. For instance, although duckweed (subfamily Lemnoideae) are globally distributed, can be locally highly abundant and ecologically dominant, and are of growing economic importance, their interactions with herbivores remain understudied.

To address how herbivores may impact duckweed species composition, we here experimentally quantify the preference and performance of a common duckweed herbivore, the water‐lily aphid (Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae) on four widespread duckweed species.

Our two‐way choice experiments reveal that aphids display a preference for Spirodela polyrhiza > Landoltia punctata = Lemna minor > > Wolffia brasiliensis. These results are rarely influenced by natal host species.

By evaluating the growth of aphid populations on each duckweed species, we find that preference may be adaptive in certain ecological conditions.

Quantifying the population growth rate of duckweed growing in the presence and absence of aphids revealed differential tolerance of herbivory across duckweed species.

This study shows that aphids, through preferential feeding and significant differential effects on duckweed growth, can have a significant impact on duckweed population dynamics and potentially community composition.
Frontiers in translational systemic sclerosis research: A focus on the unmet 'cutaneous' clinical needs (Viewpoint)
Authors: Herrick Ariane L. , Shukla Rudresh , Watson Rachel E. B.
Published: August 2020

This viewpoint considers four cutaneous unmet clinical needs of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), namely the rapidly progressive skin thickening (scleroderma) which occurs early on in diffuse cutaneous disease; digital (finger and toe) ulcers; calcinosis; and cutaneous telangiectases. All four problems cause pain, disability and/or disfigurement, all impact on quality of life, and for each, we require effective treatments. For each unmet need, we give a brief description of the clinical problem (including clinical burden), pathophysiology and current treatment, followed by a personal viewpoint of the key questions which research must address. For the painful, debilitating skin thickening of early diffuse cutaneous SSc, studies are required to decide whether corticosteroids are effective and safe (current opinion is divided) and whether phototherapy approaches have a role. Also, we need to develop and validate reliable outcome measures for clinical trials of promising new therapies: these could be composite indices, novel non‐invasive imaging methods and patient‐reported outcome measures, possibly in combination as they provide complementary information. For digital ulcers, again we require validated outcome measures for clinical trials. We also need to explore local (including topical) treatments, which are free from systemic adverse effects, and preventative strategies for high‐risk patients. For calcinosis, we need to better understand pathophysiology, to validate outcome measures and to develop topical treatments. For telangiectases, we need to "use" these highly accessible lesions to help unravel the vascular pathophysiology of SSc and explore their different properties as potential biomarkers.
Multifunctional agriculture: Policies and implementation in China
Authors: Song Bingjie , Robinson Guy M.
Published: August 2020

Multifunctional agriculture (MFA) has been supported in the European Union (EU) for over two decades, primarily as part of rural development policy in which agriculture is encouraged to deliver a range of economic, social and environmental outcomes. MFA has also grown in some countries without significant policy support, notably in peri‐urban fringes in North America and Australasia. Further expansion of this phenomenon is now apparent in China under strong central government policy directives from the early 2000s. Drawing upon a decade of studies of MFA in China, this paper examines some of the responses to various related policy initiatives, including major programs, such as Grain for Green, which have encouraged farmers to generate environmental services. It also refers to the scope for individual farm households to take initiatives leading to MFA via adoption of multiple functions on smallholdings (e.g., rural tourism, food processing). Various interpretations of MFA are explored, with a focus on how central government policy directives have driven take‐up of various MFA‐related initiatives.
Long‐term observation in patients with esophageal varices after endoscopic variceal ligation accompanied with 24‐hour pH monitoring
Authors: Hidaka Hisashi , Tanabe Satoshi , Uojima Haruki , Shao Xue , Iwasaki Shuichiro , Wada Naohisa , Kubota Kousuke , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Nakazawa Takahide , Shibuya Akitaka , Kokubu Shigehiro , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: August 2020

Aim

Esophageal variceal ligation (EVL) is usually carried out to decrease the risk of hemorrhage. Several complications have been reported with the procedure, including bleeding from ligation‐induced esophageal ulcers or heartburn. However, there is scant evidence for gastroesophageal reflux caused by EVL. The aim of this study was to assess 24‐h pH monitoring in the esophagogastric junction before and after EVL and the bleeding rate for 18 months.

Methods

We undertook this single‐center prospective trial in Kitasato University Hospital (Sagamihara, Japan). We included patients with cirrhosis who were Child–Pugh classification A or B, without uncontrollable hepatocellular carcinoma, and had F2 or larger esophageal varices, and/or were red color sign (RC) positive. The study period was from July 2012 through September 2017 for 32 patients enrolled in this study and followed up until March 2019.

Results

Baseline characteristics were: median Child–Pugh score, 6; and mean age, 64.3 years. Before and after EVL, the median 24‐h under pH 4 holding time percentages of all patients were 0.6% (range, 0–5.6%) and 0.95% (range, 0–50.6%), respectively, without a significant difference (P = 0.107). We could not find any G3 or G4 adverse events during this study, and 75% of the patients who had already suffered from moderate gastroesophageal reflux became worse after EVL (P = 0.18) and required antacid therapies. There were no patients with hemorrhage from esophageal varices.

Conclusions

Esophageal variceal ligation for esophageal varices did not significantly change gastroesophageal reflux. Therefore, acid suppressive therapy might be unnecessary for patients who do not suffer from gastroesophageal reflux after EVL.
Refugee Family Voices: Shelter Needs in Iraqi Kurdistan
Authors: Zebari Hariwan , Pare Paul‐Philippe , Jann Marga
Published: August 2020

The shelter needs of refugees in Iraqi Kurdistan were documented by local government and humanitarian organizations. However, official narratives do not include the “voices” of those directly affected by inadequate shelter: the refugee families themselves. This study uses a mixed‐methods approach to understand the shelter issues experienced by 53 refugee families in Iraqi Kurdistan. Refugee families disclosed seven common shelter problems: water infiltration, lack of public services and schools, inadequate access to water, poor roads, extreme temperatures, need for larger living space and erratic electricity. These families faced an average of three shelter issues, with some dealing with up to five problems at the same time. Families with the highest concentration of shelter issues had higher occurrences of water infiltration, inadequate access to water, extreme temperatures and need for larger living space. The evidence suggests that refugee families are living in worse conditions than those outlined in official narratives.
Gut γδ T cells as guardians, disruptors, and instigators of cancer
Authors: Suzuki Toshiyasu , Hayman Liam , Kilbey Anna , Edwards Joanne , Coffelt Seth B.
Published: August 2020

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide with nearly 2 million cases per year. Immune cells and inflammation are a critical component of colorectal cancer progression, and they are used as reliable prognostic indicators of patient outcome. With the growing appreciation for immunology in colorectal cancer, interest is growing on the role γδ T cells have to play, as they represent one of the most prominent immune cell populations in gut tissue. This group of cells consists of both resident populations—γδ intraepithelial lymphocytes (γδ IELs)—and transient populations that each has unique functions. The homeostatic role of these γδ T cell subsets is to maintain barrier integrity and prevent microorganisms from breaching the mucosal layer, which is accomplished through crosstalk with enterocytes and other immune cells. Recent years have seen a surge in discoveries regarding the regulation of γδ IELs in the intestine and the colon with particular new insights into the butyrophilin family. In this review, we discuss the development, specialities, and functions of γδ T cell subsets during cancer progression. We discuss how these cells may be used to predict patient outcome, as well as how to exploit their behavior for cancer immunotherapy.
Nurses are research leaders in skin and wound care
Authors: Gethin Georgina , Probst Sebastian , Weller Carolina , Kottner Jan , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: August 2020

The World Health Assembly declared 2020, the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. Recent editorials and commentaries support the leading role of nurses and midwives as frontline caregivers emphasizing the need to invest in the nursing workforce worldwide to meet global health needs. Today nurses are also leaders in research and one example is skin and wound care. In order to reflect on the contribution of nurses as researchers we conducted a systematic review of published articles in five international leading wound care journals in the years 1998, 2008 and 2018. We aimed to determine the type of research publication and percentage of nurses as first, second or senior authors. The place in the authorship was selected as indicative of leadership as it implies responsibility and accountability for the published work. Across the years 1998, 2008 and 2018, 988 articles were published. The overall proportion of nurse‐led articles was 29% (n = 286). The total numbers of articles increased over time and so too did the nurse‐led contributions. Nurse‐led research was strongest in the design categories 'cohort studies' (46%, n = 44), 'systematic reviews' (46%, n = 19), and 'critically appraised literature and evidence‐based guidelines' (47%, n = 55).Results of this review indicate that, in addition to the crucial clinical roles, nurses also have a substantial impact on academia and development of the evidence base to guide clinical practice. Our results suggest that nurse led contributions were particularly strong in research summarizing research to guide skin and wound care practice.
Statistical Theoreticians and Educational Assessment: Comments on Shelby Haberman's NCME Career Contributions Award
Authors: Mislevy Robert J.
Published: August 2020

In his 2019 NCME Career Contributions Award address, Dr. Shelby Haberman uses examples of three kinds to illustrate how his training in theoretical statistics influenced his contributions to educational measurement. I bracket my comments on his address, and his contributions more generally, by considering two questions: Why might any theoretical statisticians receive this award? Why aren't all recipients theoretical statisticians? Through the course of the discussion emerges the answer to a third, easier, question: Why Shelby Haberman?
Quality changes of frozen mango with regard to water mobility and ice crystals during frozen storage
Authors: Li Xian‐Xian , Zhao Jin‐Hong , Zhang Yu , Xiao Hong‐Wei , Sablani Shyam S. , Qu Tong‐Tong , Tang Xuan‐Ming
Published: August 2020

Quality changes of mango with regard to water mobility and ice crystals were studied at different storage temperatures for 6 months. Mangoes were stored in the glassy state (T [−80 and − 60°C] < Tg′ and Tg′ < T [−49°C] < Tg″), partially freeze‐concentrated state (Tg′′ < T [−38°C] < Tm′), and rubbery state (T [−18°C] > Tm′). Results indicated that the most samples stored at −80 and − 60°C had no significant difference in the water mobility, freezable water, drip loss, and vitamin C after the same storage period. The Tg′ and Tg″ showed a different effect on the quality stability of frozen mangoes. In the glassy state, changes in water state, freezable water, and ice crystal size of frozen samples were slower, resulting in lower rate of quality changing (L* value, hardness, and vitamin C) than other conditions from 0 to 6 months.

Practical applications

This study demonstrated the correlation between the water mobility and ice crystals of mango revealing the mechanism of physical and chemical changes in samples stored at different states during frozen storage. Compared to the partially freeze‐concentrated and rubbery state storages, the glassy state storage reduced the rate of the quality change in mangoes over time. Therefore, glassy state storage (below Tg″) has great potential for the food processing industry because it can improve frozen storage strategies and extend the shelf life of frozen mango during long‐term storage.
Interviewing alleged victims with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities and autism: A field study of police‐investigated cases of physical and sexual abuse in a Norwegian national sample
Authors: Åker T. H. , Johnson M. S.
Published: August 2020

Background

People with intellectual disabilities (IDs) or autism are at great risk of being victims of physical and sexual abuse. This study uses transcriptions of real‐life investigative interviews to examine the interview techniques (e.g. question type) used in investigative interviews of these groups of alleged victims.

Methods

A national sample of transcribed investigative interviews (N = 96) of alleged victims with mild ID (n = 48, age 5–70 years old), moderate ID (n = 18, age 14–43 years old) and autism (n = 16, age 5–50 years old) was analysed.

Results

The study shows a preponderance of alleged sexual offences (70.7%) and reveals that open‐ended questions account for only 2.6% of the total number of questions asked. The interviewers relied heavily on yes/no (53.4%) and directive questions (32.2%). Suggestive questions (8.6%) were frequently used.

Conclusions

The use of question type varied considerably within and across the diagnostic group. The study reveals the need for a more in‐depth analysis of variables that influence investigative interviews of people with cognitive impairments.
Testing the inhibitory cascade model in the Middle Pleistocene Sima de los Huesos (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain) hominin sample
Authors: Bermúdez de Castro José María , Modesto‐Mata Mario , Martín‐Francés Laura , García‐Campos Cecilia , Martínez de Pinillos Marina , Martinón‐Torres María
Published: August 2020

The Middle Pleistocene Sima de los Huesos (SH) site has yielded more than 7.500 human fossil remains belonging to a minimum of 29 individuals. Most of these individuals preserve either the complete mandibular molar series or at least the first (M1) and second (M2) molars. The inhibitory cascade mathematical model was proposed by Kavanagh et al. (Nature, 449, 427–433 [2007]) after their experimental studies on the dental development of murine rodent species. The activator–inhibitor mechanism of this model has shown its ability for predicting evolutionary size patterns of mammalian teeth, including hominins. The main aim of this study is to test whether the size molar patterns observed in the SH hominins fit the inhibitory cascade model. With this purpose, we have measured the crown area of all SH molars in photographs, using a planimeter and following techniques used and well contrasted in previous works. Following one of the premises of the inhibitory cascade model, we expect that the central tooth (M2 in our case) of a triplet would have the average size of the two outer teeth. The absolute difference between the observed and the expected values for the M2s ranges from 0.23 to 8.46 mm2 in the SH sample. In terms of percentage, the difference ranges between 0.25% and 10.34%, although in most cases, it is below 5%. The plot of the estimated M3/M1 and M2/M1 size ratios obtained in the SH hominins occupies a small area of the theoretical developmental morphospace obtained for rodent species. In addition, the majority of the values are placed near the theoretical line which defines the relationship predicted by the inhibitory cascade model in these mammals. The values of the slope and intercept of the reduced major regression obtained for the SH individuals do not differ significantly from those obtained for rodent species, thus confirming that the size of the molars of the SH hominins fits the inhibitory cascade model. We discuss these results in terms of dental development. Despite the promising results in the SH sample, we draw the attention to the fact that most Early Pleistocene Homo specimens exhibit a pattern (M1 < M2 > M3), which is outside the expected theoretical morphospace predicted by the inhibitory cascade model. The shift from the M1 < M2 < M3 size relationship observed in early hominins (including H. habilis) to the M1 > M2 > M3 size relationship, which is predominant in modern humans, includes sequences that depart from predictions of the inhibitory cascade model. Additional studies are required to understand these deviations.
May the morphological findings in the first‐trimester abortion materials be indicative of inherited thrombophilia?
Authors: Kaymaz Esin , Gun Banu D. , Genc Gunes C. , Kokturk Furuzan , Ozmen Kazım G.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

İnherited thrombophilia is associated with severe pregnancy complications including recurrent spontaneous abortion. In the light of this strong association, the impact of thrombophilic mutations on the placenta and their morphological reflections has aroused attention of both clinicians and pathologists. In the present study, we aimed to show the association between placental abnormalities with thrombophilia by examining the morphological findings in a wide range of first‐trimester chorionic villi.

Methods

We performed a histological examination on the abortion specimens obtained from 129 patients with recurrent pregnancy losses that were evaluated with respect to inherited thrombophilia based on the presence of Factor V Leiden (G1691A), Prothrombin G20210A and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T gene mutations detected by genetic analysis. Abortion materials either with and without thrombophilia were evaluated in terms of the morphological parameters such as hydropic change, vascularity, fibrosis, fibrinoid degeneration, Hofbauer macrophage, syncytiotrophoblast knotting, villitis, calcification, villous contour and villous size, hemorrhage, thrombus, proliferation of trophoblasts, villous stromal or villous vascular karyorrhexis.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between the patient groups with and without thrombophilia in terms of morphological findings except vascularity of chorionic villi. The avascular chorionic villi (<3 vessels per villus) were found in 62.9% and 16.9% obtained from the women with and without thrombophilic mutation, respectively. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

As a conclusion, it could be stated that the analysis of morphological findings in the abortion specimen is not a time‐wasting process. Particularly, data related with vascularity of chorionic villi would be precious and beneficial. We suggest that highlighting the presence of avascular villi in the pathology report as a parameter would be guiding for clinicians regarding the impact of the thrombophilic gene mutations.
Efficacy of Tokishakuyakusan add‐on therapy with low‐dose oral contraceptive pills on endometriosis patients with dysmenorrhea
Authors: Taniguchi Fuminori , Tokita Yohei , Ota Ikuko , Yamane Emiko , Komatsu Hiroaki , Azuma Yukihiro , Sato Eri , Endo Yusuke , Sunada Hiroshi , Harada Tasuku
Published: August 2020

Aim

Tokishakuyakusan (TSS) is representative of popular Kampo medicines for Japanese women to treat dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation and menopause. Current hormonal treatments and low‐dose oral contraceptives (OCs) used as a first‐choice drug for primary symptoms, however, have a high incidence of adverse events without improving patients' satisfaction. We evaluated the efficacy of TSS as additional treatment on the quality of life (QOL) of patients taking OCs with reduced therapeutic satisfaction.

Methods

Twelve patients treated with OCs for endometriosis were enrolled. TSS (7.5 g/day) in combination with OCs were given for three menstrual cycles. The main outcome was the degree of QOL assessed using the Endometriosis Health Profile‐30 (EHP‐30). Secondary outcomes were the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), patient's satisfaction using a Likert scale and cold feeling‐visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

In EHP‐30, significant changes by TSS with OCs in each menstrual cycle were not found, although the scores for pain and emotional well‐being tended to decrease. In MDQ, water retention in the premenstrual phase was improved. With regard to cold feeling‐VAS, 61.6 mm at pretreatment decreased to 31.3 mm at the endpoint. Average Likert scale values after TSS treatment declined from 4.3 to 2.6. Cold feeling and patient's satisfaction have improved.

Conclusion

Although the influence of TSS add‐on therapy on QOL was moderate, possible improvement of cold feeling and menstruation‐related symptoms was suggested.
Expression of stem cell markers in stroma of odontogenic cysts and tumors
Authors: Chacham Moran , Almoznino Galit , Zlotogorski‐Hurvitz Ayelet , Buchner Amos , Vered Marilena
Published: August 2020

Background

The stroma of odontogenic cysts/tumors may confer them differential biological behavior. We aimed to investigate the immunoexpression of stem cell markers (Nanog, SOX2, Oct4, and CD34) in the stroma of odontogenic cysts and tumors. CD34 was investigated exclusively as a marker for stromal fibroblast/fibrocyte cells (CD34 + SFCs). CD34 + SFCs were also investigated ultrastructurally.

Methods

Ten cases each of primary odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), recurrent OKC, dentigerous cyst, ameloblastoma, unicystic ameloblastoma, odontogenic myxoma, and 7 syndromic OKC were included. Results were represented as the mean score (%) of positive cells/field for each marker for each study group. For CD34 + SFCs, results are presented as the mean number of cells/field for each type of lesion. Kruskal‐Wallis and Spearman's correlation statistical tests were used; significance was set at P < .05.

Results

All markers except Oct4 were expressed by stromal cells in all lesions. Expression of SOX2 was significantly higher in tumors than in cysts (P < .05). CD34 + SFCs were more frequent in cysts than in tumors. Ultrastructurally, CD34 + SFCs were identified for the first time in odontogenic lesions and showed characteristic bipolar/dendritic morphology.

Conclusion

Among examined stromal stem cell markers, only SOX2 distinguished tumors from cysts. CD34 + SFCs may also contribute to the biological behavior of odontogenic lesions.
The association of low‐grade albuminuria with incident non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and non‐invasive markers of liver fibrosis by glycaemia status
Authors: Xin Zhuojun , Liu Shanshan , Niu Jingya , Xu Min , Wang Tiange , Lu Jieli , Chen Yuhong , Wang Weiqing , Ning Guang , Bi Yufang , Xu Yu , Li Mian , Zhao Zhiyun
Published: August 2020

Background & Aim

Low‐grade albuminuria, as an early marker of endothelial dysfunction and kidney damage, has been recognized as a risk factor for metabolic disorders. Epidemiological studies manifesting the association of low‐grade albuminuria with the risk of incident NAFLD and fibrosis were not available. We aimed to investigate the association of low‐grade albuminuria with incident NAFLD and fibrosis by glycaemia status.

Methods

A prospective population‐based study was performed in 3308 participants without NAFLD at recruitment. Baseline urinary albumin excretion was obtained by a first‐voided early morning spot urine sample. At follow‐up visit, incident NAFLD was diagnosed by hepatic ultrasound after excluding alcohol abuse and other cause of hepatic diseases. Fatty liver index (FLI) was employed to reflect liver fat content. Liver fibrosis was evaluated by NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), fibrosis‐4 score (FIB‐4) and Hepamet fibrosis score (HFS) respectively.

Results

After 4.3 years of follow‐up, 622 (18.8%) were detected as incident NAFLD. Participants with low‐grade albuminuria imposed a 40.4% [1.404 (1.112‐1.772)] greater risk on incident NAFLD, and 52.0% [1.520 (1.141‐2.026)], 87.4% [1.874 (1.291‐2.720)] and 40.4% [1.404 (1.038‐1.898)] higher risks on newly onset higher values of FLI, NFS and FIB‐4 respectively. The effect of low‐grade albuminuria was stronger in the subgroup of non‐diabetic population.

Conclusions

Low‐grade albuminuria was independently associated with incident NAFLD and a higher probability of fibrosis, especially among non‐diabetic individuals.
The Piancaldoli meteorite: A forgotten primitive LL3.10 ordinary chondrite
Authors: Marrocchi Yves , Bonal Lydie , Gattacceca Jérome , Piani Laurette , Beck Pierre , Greenwood Richard , Eschrig Jolantha , Basque Anne , Nuccio Pasquale Mario , Martin Franco Foresta
Published: August 2020

The Piancaldoli ordinary chondrite fell in northern Italy on August 10, 1968. Preliminary studies led to its classification as an LL3.4 unequilibrated ordinary chondrite. However, recent developments in classification procedures have prompted us to re‐examine its mineralogical, petrographic, spectroscopic, chemical, and isotopic features in a multi‐technique study. Raman spectra and magnetic properties indicate that Piancaldoli experienced minimal thermal metamorphism, consistent with its high bulk hydrogen content and the Cr contents of ferroan olivines in its type II chondrules. In combination with findings of previous studies, our data thus confirm the variability of Cr contents in ferroan olivines in type II chondrules as a proxy of thermal metamorphism. Furthermore, our results reveal that Piancaldoli is less altered than previously reported and should be reclassified as an LL3.10 unequilibrated ordinary chondrite. Our results also imply that the bulk deuterium enrichment, as observed in Piancaldoli (LL3.10), Bishunpur (LL3.15), and Semarkona (LL3.00), is a specific signature of the most primitive unequilibrated ordinary chondrites. Based on our results, we propose that, to date, Piancaldoli is the second least‐altered unequilibrated ordinary chondrite fall after Semarkona. This work reiterates the importance of meteorite collections worldwide as fundamental resources for studying the formation conditions and evolution of our solar system.
Improved sanitation is associated with reduced child stunting amongst Indonesian children under 3 years of age
Authors: Rah Jee H. , Sukotjo Sri , Badgaiyan Nina , Cronin Aidan A. , Torlesse Harriet
Published: August 2020

Growing evidence suggests that household sanitation is associated with child nutritional status in low‐ and middle‐income countries. This paper examined whether household access to improved sanitation facilities and sources of drinking water was associated with stunting and anaemia amongst children aged 6–35 months of age in Indonesia. The sample for the analysis comprised 1,450 children aged 6–35 months who participated in the end‐line survey of the maternal and young child nutrition security project in Asia, conducted in three selected districts in Indonesia. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association between household sanitation and water source, and stunting and anaemia. Approximately 26% and 56% of children 6–35 months of age were stunted and anaemic, respectively. Children living in a household with improved sanitation facilities had 29% reduced odds of being stunted compared with those in a household with unimproved sanitation facilities, after adjusting for potential confounders including child's age and gender, maternal education, and iron–folic acid supplementation, as well as household wealth status and source of drinking water (OR = 0.68, 95% CI:0.48–0.96). No association between household sanitation and childhood anaemia was observed. Source of drinking water was not associated with stunting or anaemia amongst children. There were no synergistic effects of household sanitation and water supply on stunting and anaemia. This suggests that efforts to improve household sanitation condition may need to be considered an essential, integral part of the programmatic responses by governments and development partners for the prevention of childhood nutritional status. Further randomised research is necessary to determine the causal link.
Universal Salt Iodisation: Lessons learned from Cambodia for ensuring programme sustainability
Authors: Codling Karen , Laillou Arnaud , Rudert Christiane , Borath Mam , Gorstein Jonathan
Published: August 2020

Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of preventable intellectual disability in the world, but it has been successfully prevented in most countries through universal salt iodization (USI). In 2011, Cambodia appeared to be an example of this success story, but today, Cambodian women and children are once again iodine deficient. In 2011, Cambodia demonstrated high‐household coverage of adequately iodized salt and had achieved virtual elimination of iodine deficiency in school‐age children. However, this achievement was not sustained because the USI programme was dependent on external funding, and the national government and salt industries had not institutionalized their implementation responsibilities. Recent programmatic efforts, in particular the establishment of a regulatory monitoring and enforcement system, are turning the situation around. Although Cambodia has not yet fully regained the achievements of 2011 (only 55% of tested salt was adequately iodized in 2017 compared with 67% in 2011), the recent steps taken by the government and the salt industry point to greater sustainability of the USI programme and the long‐term prevention of iodine deficiency in children, women, and the general population.
The Dynamic Multicausality of Age of First Bilingual Language Exposure: Evidence From a Longitudinal Content and Language Integrated Learning Study With Dense Time Serial Measurements
Authors: PFENNINGER SIMONE E.
Published: August 2020

This study reveals hitherto overlooked effects of age of onset (AO) in immersive school contexts, using multiple measures over time so as to focus on fluctuations and trends in individual data. The second language (L2) English development was studied in 91 children who received 50–50 content and language integrated learning (CLIL) instruction in German and English and varied in their AO (5, 7, or 9). Data collection occurred 4 times annually for up to 8 school years (ages 5–12), via oral and written production tasks, motivation questionnaires, and interviews. Meaningfully integrating quantitative analyses (GAMM) and qualitative analyses, the study focuses not only on the process itself and on quantification of change but also on the underlying environmental and psychological reasons for change. Results reveal that (a) slightly later CLIL beginners (AO 7) turn out to show similar L2 development to that of the earlier beginners (AO 5), (b) besides external states and events, many internal states at any given moment contribute to significant L2 growth, (c) learners show significant improvement in the last 2.5 years of primary school, starting from age 10, and (d) there are significant differences between L2 oral and written performance in terms of height and shape of learner trajectories across (pre)primary school.
Topical bendazol inhibits experimental myopia progression and decreases the ocular accumulation of HIF‐1α protein in young rabbits
Authors: Tong Liyang , Cui Dongmei , Zeng Junwen
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To investigate the inhibitory effect of bendazol on form‐deprivation myopia (FDM) in rabbits as well as the underlying biochemical processes.

Methods

Forty‐eight 3‐week‐old New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups: a control group, a form‐deprivation (FD) group and an FD + bendazol group (treated with 1% bendazol in the FD eyes). Refraction, corneal curvature, vitreous chamber depth (VCD) and axial length (AL) were assessed using streak retinoscopy, keratometry, and A‐scan ultrasonography, respectively. Eyeballs were enucleated for histological analysis, and ocular tissues were homogenized to determine the mRNA and protein expression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs).

Results

Bendazol inhibited the progression of FDM and suppressed the upregulation of HIF‐1α. At week 6, in the control, FD and FD + bendazol groups, the refraction values were 1.38 ± 0.43, 0.03 ± 0.47 and 1.25 ± 0.35 D, respectively (p < 0.001); the ALs were 13.91 ± 0.11, 14.15 ± 0.06 and 13.97 ± 0.10 mm, respectively (p < 0.001) and the VCDs were 6.56 ± 0.06, 6.69 ± 0.07 and 6.61 ± 0.06 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). HIF‐1α was upregulated in FD eyes but downregulated in FD + bendazol eyes, while the mAChRs were the opposite.

Conclusions

In the FD rabbit model, bendazol significantly inhibits the development of myopia and downregulates HIF‐1α expression, which may provide a novel therapeutic approach for myopia control.
To strengthen or to shatter? On the effects of stratification on professions as systems
Authors: Alvehus Johan , Eklund Sanna , Kastberg Gustaf
Published: August 2020

The aim of this article is to contribute to the literature on how stratification affects professions. Our case study is the ‘first teacher reform’ in Sweden, which introduced a more prominent position for some teachers. In this article, we elaborate six different first teacher types and analyse how these affect the profession. While elites are generally described as hybrids, we conclude that several of our types rather led to a de‐hybridization of roles, where managers became more administratively focused, and elites more anchored to professional tasks. We conclude that elite roles reveal various potentials in being strengthening/weakening or shattering/integrating to the profession, but, in contrast to other studies on professional elites, the majority of roles studied here are both strengthening and integrating to the profession. The study is qualitative and is based on 111 interviews, 12 weeks of shadowing and 53 observed meetings.
Aging, Proximity to Death, and Religiosity
Authors: Lechler Marie , Sunde Uwe
Published: August 2020

Considerable evidence has documented that the elderly are more religious and that religiosity is associated with better health and lower mortality. Yet, little is known about the reverse role of life expectancy or proximity to death, as opposed to age, for religiosity. This paper provides evidence for the distinct role of expected remaining life years for the importance of religion in individuals’ lives. We combine individual survey response data for more than 300,000 individuals from 95 countries over the period 1994–2014 with information from period life tables. Contrary to wide‐held beliefs, religiosity decreases with greater expected proximity to death. The findings have important implications regarding the consequences of population aging for religiosity and associated outcomes.
Two terpene synthases in resistant Pinus massoniana contribute to defence against Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Liu Bin , Liu Qinghua , Zhou Zhichun , Yin Hengfu , Xie Yini , Wei Yongcheng
Published: August 2020

Pine wood nematode (PWN; Bursaphelenchus xylophilus), a destructive pest of Pinus massoniana, is causing a severe epidemic of pine wilt disease in China. When invaded by PWN, resistant P. massoniana secretes an abundance of oleoresin terpenoids as a defensive strategy. However, regulatory mechanisms of this defence in resistant P. massoniana have yet to be elucidated. Here, we characterized two terpene synthase genes, α‐pinene synthase (PmTPS4) and longifolene synthase (PmTPS21), identified in resistant P. massoniana and investigate the contribution of these genes to the oleoresin defence strategy in resistant masson pines. Up‐regulation of these two genes in the stem supported their involvement in terpene biosynthesis as part of the defence against PWN. Recombinant protein expression revealed catalytic activity for the two PmTPSs, with PmTPS4 primarily producing α‐pinene, while PmTPS21 produced α‐pinene and longifolene simultaneously. The major enzymatic products of the two terpene synthases had inhibitory effects on PWN in vitro. We demonstrated that PmTPS4 and PmTPS21 played positive roles in terpene‐defence mechanisms against PWN infestation. The major products of these terpene synthases could directly inhibit the survival rate of PWN in vitro. We revealed that PmTPS21 was a novel bifunctional enzyme capable of simultaneous production of both monoterpene and sesquiterpene.
Root metaxylem and architecture phenotypes integrate to regulate water use under drought stress
Authors: Strock Christopher F. , Burridge James D. , Niemiec Miranda D. , Brown Kathleen M. , Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: August 2020

At the genus and species level, variation in root anatomy and architecture may interact to affect strategies of drought avoidance. To investigate this idea, root anatomy and architecture of the drought‐sensitive common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and drought‐adapted tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) were analyzed in relation to water use under terminal drought. Intraspecific variation for metaxylem anatomy and axial conductance was found in the roots of both species. Genotypes with high‐conductance root metaxylem phenotypes acquired and transpired more water per unit leaf area, shoot mass, and root mass than genotypes with low‐conductance metaxylem phenotypes. Interspecific variation in root architecture and root depth was observed where P. acutifolius has a deeper distribution of root length than P. vulgaris. In the deeper‐rooted P. acutifolius, genotypes with high root conductance were better able to exploit deep soil water than genotypes with low root axial conductance. Contrastingly, in the shallower‐rooted P. vulgaris, genotypes with low root axial conductance had improved water status through conservation of soil moisture for sustained water capture later in the season. These results indicate that metaxylem morphology interacts with root system depth to determine a strategy of drought avoidance and illustrate synergism among architectural and anatomical phenotypes for root function.
Knockout of SlNPR1 enhances tomato plants resistance against Botrytis cinerea by modulating ROS homeostasis and JA/ET signaling pathways
Authors: Li Rui , Wang Liu , Li Yujing , Zhao Ruirui , Zhang Yuelin , Sheng Jiping , Ma Peihua , Shen Lin
Published: August 2020

Tomato is one of the most popular horticultural crops, and many commercial tomato cultivars are particularly susceptible to Botrytis cinerea. Non‐expressor of pathogenesis‐related gene 1 (NPR1) is a critical component of the plant defense mechanisms. However, our understanding of how SlNPR1 influences disease resistance in tomato is still limited. In this study, two independent slnpr1 mutants were used to study the role of SlNPR1 in tomato resistance against B. cinerea. Compared to (WT), slnpr1 leaves exhibited enhanced resistance against B. cinerea with smaller lesion sizes, higher activities of chitinase (CHI), β‐1, 3‐glucanases (GLU) and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), and significantly increased expressions of pathogenesis‐related genes (PRs). The increased activities of peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and decreased catalase (CAT) activities collectively regulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis in slnpr1 mutants. The integrity of the cell wall in slnpr1 mutants was maintained. Moreover, the enhanced resistance was further reflected by induction of defense genes involved in jasmonic acid (JA) and ethylene (ET) signaling pathways. Taken together, these findings revealed that knocking out SlNPR1 resulted in increased activities of defense enzymes, changes in ROS homeostasis and integrity of cell walls, and activation of JA and ET pathways, which confers resistance against B. cinerea in tomato plants.
Tracking the motion of the KV1.2 voltage sensor reveals the molecular perturbations caused by a de novo mutation in a case of epilepsy
Authors: Pantazis Antonios , Kaneko Maki , Angelini Marina , Steccanella Federica , Westerlund Annie M. , Lindström Sarah H. , Nilsson Michelle , Delemotte Lucie , Saitta Sulagna C. , Olcese Riccardo
Published: August 2020

Key points

KV1.2 channels, encoded by the KCNA2 gene, regulate neuronal excitability by conducting K+ upon depolarization. A new KCNA2 missense variant was discovered in a patient with epilepsy, causing amino acid substitution F302L at helix S4, in the KV1.2 voltage‐sensing domain.

Immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry showed that F302L does not impair KCNA2 subunit surface trafficking.

Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that F302L alters the exposure of S4 residues to membrane lipids.

Voltage clamp fluorometry revealed that the voltage‐sensing domain of KV1.2‐F302L channels is more sensitive to depolarization. Accordingly, KV1.2‐F302L channels opened faster and at more negative potentials; however, they also exhibited enhanced inactivation: that is, F302L causes both gain‐ and loss‐of‐function effects. Coexpression of KCNA2‐WT and ‐F302L did not fully rescue these effects.

The proband's symptoms are more characteristic of patients with loss of KCNA2 function. Enhanced KV1.2 inactivation could lead to increased synaptic release in excitatory neurons, steering neuronal circuits towards epilepsy.

An exome‐based diagnostic panel in an infant with epilepsy revealed a previously unreported de novo missense variant in KCNA2, which encodes voltage‐gated K+ channel KV1.2. This variant causes substitution F302L, in helix S4 of the KV1.2 voltage‐sensing domain (VSD). F302L does not affect KCNA2 subunit membrane trafficking. However, it does alter channel functional properties, accelerating channel opening at more hyperpolarized membrane potentials, indicating gain of function. F302L also caused loss of KV1.2 function via accelerated inactivation onset, decelerated recovery and shifted inactivation voltage dependence to more negative potentials. These effects, which are not fully rescued by coexpression of wild‐type and mutant KCNA2 subunits, probably result from the enhancement of VSD function, as demonstrated by optically tracking VSD depolarization‐evoked conformational rearrangements. In turn, molecular dynamics simulations suggest altered VSD exposure to membrane lipids. Compared to other encephalopathy patients with KCNA2 mutations, the proband exhibits mild neurological impairment, more characteristic of patients with KCNA2 loss of function. Based on this information, we propose a mechanism of epileptogenesis based on enhanced KV1.2 inactivation leading to increased synaptic release preferentially in excitatory neurons, and hence the perturbation of the excitatory/inhibitory balance of neuronal circuits.
Study on the Long Bone Failure Behaviors Under the Indenter Rigid-Contact by Experiment Analysis and Subject-Specific Simulation
Authors: Du Xianping , Jiang Binhui , Zhang Guanjun , Chou Clifford C. , Bai Zhonghao
Published: August 2020

The bending fracture behaviors of long bone have gained great attention due to the high bending fracture risk during sports events, traffic accidents, and falling incidents, etc. For evaluating bone bending behaviors, most of the previous studies used an indenter in three point bending experiments while the effect of its rigidity was never considered. In this work, using the porcine long bones, the three point bending tests were conducted to explore the bone fracture behaviors under a rigid indenter. In addition to collecting the force applied, the bone fracture dynamic process was recorded by high-speed photography, and the fracture surface profile in mesoscale was observed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Based on CT scanning of long bones, the cross section properties of test specimens were calculated by a homemade matlab script for correlating with their failure strengths. Also, a subject-specific finite element (FE) model was developed to identify the outcomes induced by a rigid indenter on simulation. Findings led to conclusions as follows: (1) The tension fracture came with fracture path deflection, which was caused by the bone indentation induced mesoscale crack-opening. Due to this damage before the whole bone fracture, a bone fracture moment correction was established to compensate experimental data. (2) The plastic indentation caused the force fluctuation as suggested by correlation analysis. (3) The bone failure moment correlated with the inertial moment of the bone cross section at the fracture location higher than the traditional cross section area. (4) In the subject-specific simulation, the indentation caused compression fracture under a much lower failure force. Removing the element erosion on the indenter-contacted area only during the validation was verified as a good option to solve this issue.
Acoustic scattering from an infinitely long cylindrical shell with periodic internal lengthwise ribs
Authors: Tong Yunzhe , Wang Bin , Fan Jun , Liu Benqi , Pan Xiefan
Published: August 2020

The acoustic scattering from an infinitely long cylindrical shell with periodic lengthwise ribs is studied. The shell motion is described by the Donnell equations, and the lengthwise rib is modeled as an elastic beam whose motion is decomposed into longitudinal and flexural vibrations. A circumferential mode expansion is used to obtain numerical results for the scattering sound field. The backscattering characteristics in the far-field can be explained by the resonance and interference phenomena. It is shown that subsonic flexural waves can be generated and radiated by the ribs. Due to the periodical distribution of the ribs, there exist multi-order flexural Bloch waves in the circumferential direction. The multi-order flexural Bloch waves can form standing circumferential waves, which lead to a complex acoustic resonance. The attachments of the ribs to the shell can reflect an acoustic wave directly and the reflected wave will interfere with the specular reflection, which is dominant in the frequency-angle spectra with an increasing number of ribs. Furthermore, the flexural wave and flexural Bloch waves can radiate through the attachments and interfere with the specular reflection. However, the interference fringes in the frequency-angle spectra caused by the flexural wave and flexural Bloch waves are coincident at broadside.
An allosteric site on MKP5 reveals a strategy for small-molecule inhibition
Authors: Gannam Zachary T. K. , Min Kisuk , Shillingford Shanelle R. , Zhang Lei , Herrington James , Abriola Laura , Gareiss Peter C. , Pantouris Georgios , Tzouvelekis Argyrios , Kaminski Naftali , Zhang Xinbo , Yu Jun , Jamali Haya , Ellman Jonathan A. , Lolis Elias , Anderson Karen S. , Bennett Anton M.
Published: August 2020

A small-molecule inhibitor of the phosphatase MKP5 identifies an allosteric site that enables specific targeting.
Blastocyst-induced ATP release from luminal epithelial cells initiates decidualization through the P2Y2 receptor in mice
Authors: Gu Xiao-Wei , Chen Zi-Cong , Yang Zhen-Shan , Yang Yan , Yan Ya-Ping , Liu Yue-Fang , Pan Ji-Min , Su Ren-Wei , Yang Zeng-Ming
Published: August 2020

The blastocyst-induced release of ATP by uterine epithelial cells stimulates decidualization and implantation in mice.