bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding the invasion footprint:Ventenata dubiaand relationships to wildfire, environment, and plant communities in the Blue Mountains of the Inland Northwest, USA
Authors: Tortorelli Claire M. , Krawchuk Meg A. , Kerns Becky K.
Published: June 2020

Questions

A recently introduced non‐native annual grass,Ventenata dubia, is challenging previous conceptions of community resistance in forest mosaic communities in the Inland Northwest. However, little is known of the drivers and potential ecological impacts of this rapidly expanding species. Here we (1) identify abiotic and biotic habitat characteristics associated with theV. dubiainvasion and examine how these differ betweenV. dubiaand other problematic non‐native annual grasses,Bromus tectorumandTaeniatherum caput‐medusae; and (2) determine how burning influences relationships betweenV. dubiaand plant community composition and structure to address potential impacts on Inland Northwest forest mosaic communities.

Location

Blue Mountains of the Inland Northwest, USA.

Methods

We measured environmental and plant community characteristics in 110 recently burned and nearby unburned plots. Plots were stratified to capture a range ofV. dubiacover, elevations, biophysical classes, and fire severities. We investigated relationships betweenV. dubia, wildfire, environmental, and plant community characteristics using non‐metric multidimensional scaling and linear regressions.

Results

Ventenata dubiawas most abundant in sparsely vegetated, basalt‐derived rocky scablands interspersed throughout the forested landscape. Plant communities most heavily invaded byV. dubiawere largely uninvaded by other non‐native annual grasses.Ventenata dubiawas abundant in both unburned and burned areas, but negative relationships betweenV. dubiacover and community diversity were stronger in burned plots, where keystone sagebrush species were largely absent after fire.

Conclusions

Ventenata dubiais expanding the overall invasion footprint into previously uninvaded communities. Burning may exacerbate negative relationships betweenV. dubiaand species richness, evenness, and functional diversity, including in communities that historically rarely burned. Understanding the drivers and impacts of theV. dubiainvasion and recognizing how these differ from other annual grass invasions may provide insight into mechanisms of community invasibility, grass‐fire feedbacks, and aid the development of species‐specific management plans.
The impact of lower body compression garment on left ventricular rotational mechanics in patients with lipedema—Insights from the three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiographic MAGYAR‐Path Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Domsik Péter , Kalapos Anita , Kemény Lajos , Szolnoky Győző
Published: June 2020

Lipedema is a lymphedema‐masquerading symmetrical, bilateral and disproportional obesity. Its conservative maintenance treatment comprises the use of flat‐knitted compression pantyhoses. Lipedema is known to be associated with left ventricular morphological and functional alterations. The present study aimed to assess the effects of graduated compression stockings on left ventricular (LV) rotational mechanics measured by three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) in lipedema patients. The present study comprised twenty lipedema patients (mean age: 45.8 ± 11.0 years, all females) undergoing 3DSTE who were also compared to 51 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (mean age: 39.8 ± 14.1 years, all females). 3DSTE analysis was performed at rest, and subsequent to 1 hour application of compression class 2 made‐to‐measure flat‐knitted pantyhose. Six lipedema patients showed significant LV rotational abnormalities. Of the remaining fourteen lipedema patients LV basal rotation rotation showed significant reduction, while LV apical rotation showed significant increase with unchanged LV twist after a 60‐minute use of compression garment. Significant changes in LV rotational mechanics could be detected among 14 women with lipedema after the use of compression garment however six probands have special LV rotational abnormalities at baseline and/or after compression.
Persistent hydrocele fluid in a patient with transitional cell carcinoma
Authors: Sarlanis Helen , Stravodimos Konstantinos , Papaioannou Christos , Lazaris Andreas , Mikou Panagiota
Published: June 2020

This is a case of hydrocele fluid cytology, with very atypical cells, in a patient with a clinical history of urothelial carcinoma. The atypical cells were suspicious for malignancy and the differential diagnosis is discussed.
Effectiveness of suction valve button removal in retrieving resected colon polyps for better histological assessment: Propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Kishida Yoshihiro , Hotta Kinichi , Imai Kenichiro , Ito Sayo , Yabuuchi Yohei , Yoshida Masao , Kawata Noboru , Kakushima Naomi , Takizawa Kohei , Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Fragmentation of endoscopically resected colorectal polyps during retrieval is one of the limitations for appropriate pathological diagnosis; however, little is known about steps to reduce it. We aimed to evaluate the effect of removing the suction valve button, which is one of the intricate parts of the endoscope, during polyp suction retrieval for fragmentation and pathological diagnosis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the polyps retrieved by suctioning. We used the propensity score matching method to adjust for difference between the button‐attached and button‐removed groups. Outcomes of fragmentation, pathological diagnosis of non‐neoplastic polypectomy (NNP), and pathological cut‐end among neoplastic lesions were evaluated.

Results

On the basis of propensity score matching, 322 pairs of cases were selected for analysis. After matching, the difference in the variables between the two groups was closely balanced. The fragmentation rate was significantly different between the groups (button‐attached 36.6% vs. button‐removed 22.4%, P < 0.001). No significant difference in the NNP rate was observed between the two groups (button‐attached 8.4% vs. button‐removed 9.9%). The rate of unclear cut‐end was lower in the button‐removed group than in the button‐attached group (16.2% vs. 9.1%, P = 0.010). In the multivariate analysis, button removal was independently associated with reductions of fragmentation (odds ratio [OR] 0.508, P < 0.001) and unclear cut‐end (OR 0.503, P = 0.009). Also, NNP was associated with smaller lesion size (OR 0.364, P < 0.001), but not with button removal.

Conclusions

Suction valve button removal during polyp suction retrieval was an effective method to decrease the rates of fragmentation and histological unclear margins.
Right ventricular outflow tract obstruction caused by a right coronary cusp prolapse: An unusual finding
Authors: Gourav Krishna Prasad , Niyogi Subhrashis Guha , Halder Vikram , Negi Sunder , Singh Avneet
Published: June 2020

Patients with large sub‐pulmonic ventricular septal defect (VSD) present early as a results of their complications. Some present late, due to the restriction of VSD by the right coronary cusp (RCC) due to its prolapse. In this report, we present a rare case of sub‐pulmonic VSD in a 33‐year‐old man who developed a sub‐pulmonic stenosis due to the prolapse of the RCC into the right ventricular outflow tract.
Predictors for delayed antibiotic administration among bacteraemic patients in the Emergency Department: Differences between medical and surgical interns
Authors: Papadimitriou‐Olivgeris Matthaios , Perdikis Konstantinos , Cois Michela , Roth Léa , Mykoniati Sofia , Nusbaumer Charly , Monnerat Luce Bertaiola , Duplain Hervé
Published: June 2020

Background

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) have been associated with high mortality. The aim of the study was to identify predictors of early (within 3 hours from triage) administration of first antibiotic dose among patients evaluated in the Emergency Department (ED) with BSI and their role in mortality.

Materials and methods

All adult patients with BSI at the ED of the Hospital of Jura, Switzerland during a 3 year period (July 2014 to June 2017) were included.

Results

Among 364 BSI, the most common sites of infection were urinary tract (39.6% of BSIs), lower respiratory tract (15.4%), intra‐abdominal (15.4%) and primary BSI (9.1%). One‐hundred‐seventy‐eight patients (48.9%) received the first antibiotic dose within 3 hours from triage. Multivariate analysis identified evaluation by internal medicine intern, triage scales 1 and 2, as predictors of early antibiotic administration, while, primary BSI was associated with delayed antibiotic administration. Thirty‐day mortality was 12.9% (47 patients). Charlson comorbidity index, septic shock, low respiratory tract infection were independently associated with mortality, while antibiotic administration within 3 hours from triage and source control within 48 hours from triage were associated with survival.

Conclusions

The majority of patients received the first antibiotic dose after 3 hours Patients evaluated by surgical interns had a significant delay in administration of antibiotics as compared to those treated by medical interns.
Retrospective analysis of trauma incidence in patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Bal Burcu , Koksal Temel , Ebeoglu Bugce , Oral Koray
Published: June 2020

Background/Aim

The relationships between direct trauma, whiplash injuries, and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) have not been well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the percentage of direct and/or whiplash trauma in patients with TMDs.

Material and Methods

The clinical records of 237 patients with temporomandibular disorders who had sought treatment at the Orofacial Pain Clinic were reviewed. Clinical data for age and gender of the patients, history of trauma, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds, and TMD diagnosis were extracted from the medical records of all included patients. The presence of TMJ sounds and TMD diagnosis had been determined based on the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs.

Results

The mean age of patients with osteoarthritis was significantly higher than that of patients with disk displacement with reduction (P = .001, P ˂ .05). There was no statistically significant gender‐based difference in diagnosis, clicking, crepitus, and trauma frequency (P > .05). A history of direct and whiplash trauma was observed in 18.6% and 14.8% of patients, respectively. Statistical analysis for the relationship between clicking and crepitus, and trauma showed no significant correlation (P > .05).

Conclusion

Direct and/or whiplash trauma in patients with temporomandibular disorders were not associated with the diagnostic records and temporomandibular joint sounds.
MALT‐1 as a novel therapeutic target for adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Ishikawa Chie , Mori Naoki
Published: June 2020

Objectives

T‐cell receptor (TCR) signaling‐induced activation of NF‐κB requires assembly of the CARD11‐BCL10‐MALT‐1 complex and IκB kinase (IKK). Gain‐of‐function alterations in this component of the TCR/NF‐κB pathway are associated with the development of HTLV‐1‐driven adult T‐cell leukemia (ATL). We aimed to determine whether inhibition of MALT‐1‐mediated NF‐κB activation could have anti‐ATL activity.

Methods

RT‐PCR, immunoblotting, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays were performed to assess expression levels of MALT‐1 and the intracellular signaling cascades. Cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and apoptotic events were examined using WST‐8 assays, flow cytometry, and Hoechst 33342 staining.

Results

MALT‐1 expression was upregulated in ATL‐derived T‐cell lines compared to that in normal PBMCs and uninfected or HTLV‐1‐transformed T‐cell lines. Targeting MALT‐1 with siRNA decreased cell proliferation. A MALT‐1 inhibitor (MI‐2) suppressed cleavage of the MALT‐1‐target protein, CYLD, and inhibited proliferation via G1 phase arrest. MI‐2 induced apoptosis through caspase‐3/8/9 activation and inhibited the phosphorylation of IKKα/β and IκBα, resulting in the accumulation of IκBα and suppression of NF‐κB‐DNA binding. Additionally, MI‐2 inhibited the expression of apoptosis‐ and cell cycle‐related proteins regulated by NF‐κB.

Conclusions

MALT‐1 plays an important regulatory role in NF‐κB signaling during ATL‐genesis, and targeting MALT‐1 is a promising therapeutic strategy for this disease.
Caecal impactions: Diagnosis, management and prognosis
Authors: Velloso Alvarez A. , Reid Hanson R. , Schumacher J.
Published: June 2020

A caecal impaction can be caused by an accumulation of dry ingesta (type I) or abnormal caecal motility resulting in a feed impaction of fluid consistency (type II). Horses that develop a caecal impaction have often been administered a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) during hospitalisation for treatment of a painful condition such as an ocular or orthopaedic disease. Clinical signs of caecal impaction can be mild, and progress to more moderate to severe signs of abdominal pain as the impaction enlarges. Since an impacted caecum has a high risk of rupture, early diagnosis and treatment are important. Horses with a caecal impaction can be treated medically or surgically, and treatment decisions are based on clinical signs, results of transrectal palpation, character of peritoneal fluid and response to medical management. For type I caecal impaction, medical management consists of aggressive fluid therapy, both intravenous and enteral, to soften ingesta. Fluid therapy can be combined with laxatives, motility‐enhancing drugs and analgesic drugs. Surgery is indicated if results of transrectal abdominal examination indicate that the impaction is unchanged or has enlarged, signs of abdominal pain increase, or if there is cardiovascular deterioration. Horses with type II caecal impaction have a greater chance of survival if managed surgically. Using a ventral mid‐line celiotomy approach, a caecal impaction can be resolved via a typhlotomy. When caecal motility is poor, or there are signs of chronic caecal dysfunction, a caecal bypass procedure (jejunocolostomy or ileocolostomy) should be considered. Although the prognosis for horses with a caecal impaction is claimed to be fair to good, choice of treatment is controversial and may influence prognosis. If the affected horse survives to discharge from the hospital, the long‐term prognosis is generally good. Many retrospective studies of cases of caecal impaction are weakened by failure to distinguish between types I and II.
Retrospective analysis of the influence of environmental drivers on commercial stocks and fishing opportunities in the Irish Sea
Authors: Bentley Jacob W. , Serpetti Natalia , Fox Clive J. , Heymans Johanna J. , Reid David G.
Published: June 2020

Irish Sea fisheries have undergone considerable change in recent years following the decline of commercially important finfish stocks and their slow response to management's recovery plans. In 2015, the fishing industry called for a holistic exploration into the impact of environmental change and food web effects to identify the drivers underpinning stock dynamics. In this study, we identify correlations between large‐scale climatic indicators, temperature, primary and secondary productivity, and fish recruitment in the Irish Sea and incorporate them into an Ecopath with Ecosim food web model co‐created by scientists and fishers. Negative correlations were found between the North Atlantic Oscillation winter index (NAOw) and large zooplankton abundance and between the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) and the recruitment of cod (Gadus morhua) and whiting (Merlangius merlangus). Using correlation analyses to direct the addition of environmental drivers to the Irish Sea ecosystem model improved the models fit against observed biomass and catch data and revealed the indirect impacts of environmental change as mitigated through trophic interactions. Model simulations suggest that historic environmental change suppressed the overall production of commercial finfish, limiting opportunities for the fishing industry, whilst also dampening the rate of stock recovery despite marked reductions in fishing effort. These results suggest that failure to account for ecosystem information may lead to misconceived expectations and flawed fisheries management; therefore, there is a need to operationalize ecosystem information through management procedures to support fisheries advice.
Pomphorhynchus laevis manipulates Gammarus pulex behaviour despite salt pollution
Authors: Fanton Hadrien , Franquet Evelyne , Logez Maxime , Kaldonski Nicolas
Published: June 2020

Salt pollution of freshwater ecosystems represents a major threat to biodiversity, and particularly to interactions between free‐living species and their associated parasites. Acanthocephalan parasites are able to alter their intermediate host's phenotype to reach final hosts, but this process could be affected by salt pollution, thereby compromising survival of the parasite.

We experimentally assessed the impact of salt on the extended phenotype of the parasite Pomphorhynchus laevis in their intermediate host, the amphipod Gammarus pulex, based on three amphipod behaviours: distance covered in flowing water, phototaxis, and geotaxis. We hypothesised that: (1) salt pollution negatively affected the behaviour of uninfected gammarids, and (2) that P. laevis could maintain their capacity to manipulate their host despite this pollution.

All three amphipod behaviours were altered by P. laevis: infected G. pulex covered a greater distance, were less photophobic and were more attracted to the water surface than uninfected amphipods, in control or salt‐polluted water. However, salinity reduced distance covered in flowing water and increased attraction to the water surface of uninfected and infected G. pulex. For the phototaxis behaviour, P. laevis enhanced this capacity of manipulation in salt‐polluted water compared to control water.

Pomphorhynchus laevis can still manipulate the behaviour of their intermediate host in salt‐polluted water. Acanthocephalan parasites have not been known to be able to manipulate their intermediate host when under pollution stress. Trophic interactions, but not the chances of parasite transmission to their definitive host, appear to be affected by salt pollution.

Our study indicates that behavioural modifications induced by complex lifecycle parasites should be more considered in the context of growing concentrations of chemical pollutants in some freshwater ecosystems. Interspecific interactions, and particularly host–parasite relationships, are a key component of ecosystem stability and their alteration could result in major changes in energy flow.
Response to concerns and uncertainties relating to methane emissions synthesis for vegetated coastal ecosystems
Authors: Al‐Haj Alia N. , Fulweiler Robinson W.
Published: June 2020

This is a Response article to Letter to the Editor by Rosentreter and Williamson, 26, 5351-5352. See also the Research Review paper by Al‐Haj and Fulweiler 26, 2988-3005.
Climate–human interactions contributed to historical forest recruitment dynamics in Mediterranean subalpine ecosystems
Authors: Sangüesa‐Barreda Gabriel , Esper Jan , Büntgen Ulf , Camarero J. Julio , Di Filippo Alfredo , Baliva Michele , Piovesan Gianluca
Published: June 2020

Long‐term tree recruitment dynamics of subalpine forests mainly depend on temperature changes, but little is known about the feedbacks between historical land use and climate. Here, we analyze a southern European, millennium‐long dataset of tree recruitment from three high‐elevation pine forests located in Mediterranean mountains (Pyrenees, northeastern Spain; Pollino, southern Italy; and Mt. Smolikas, northern Greece). We identify synchronized recruitment peaks in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, following prolonged periods of societal and climate instability. Major European population crises in the 14th and 15th centuries associated with recurrent famines, the Black Death pandemic, and political turmoil are likely to have reduced the deforestation of subalpine environments and caused widespread rewilding. We suggest that a distinct cold phase in the Little Ice Age around 1450 ce could also have accelerated the cessation of grazing pressure, particularly in the Pyrenees, where the demographic crisis was less severe. Most pronounced in the Pyrenees, the enhanced pine recruitment from around 1500–1550 ce coincides with temporarily warmer temperatures associated with a positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation. We diagnose that a mixture of human and climate factors has influenced past forest recruitment dynamics in Mediterranean subalpine ecosystems. Our results highlight how complex human–climate interactions shaped forest dynamics during pre‐industrial times and provide historical analogies to recent rewilding.
Evidence‐loving rock star chief medical officers: Female leadership amidst COVID‐19 in Canada
Authors: Cherneski Jennifer
Published: June 2020

This article presents a feminist poststructuralist inquiry perspective on how news and social media discourse around the COVID‐19 pandemic is presenting a potential shift in hegemonic representations of masculine leadership. I am informed by organizational rules and sensemaking theories, and consider how Canadian and international female leaders are showing resilience, emotion and vulnerability as they help lead their countries through these uncertain times. I reflexively ground my observations in my own sensemaking and personal experiences. Despite reservations, I am hopeful. There are indications that the ‘rules of the game’ are starting to be challenged, and feminine frameworks that question traditional gender roles are disrupting conceptions around ‘business as usual’.
Application of HbA2 levels and red cell indices‐based new model in the differentiation of thalassemia traits from iron deficiency in hypochromic microcytic anemia Cases
Authors: Zhou Yuan , Zhang Jibo , Wang Chao , Zhou Lihua , Zhou Lu , Ou Dan , Peng Dan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Thalassemia traits and iron deficiency anemia are the most common types of hypochromic microcytic anemia with similar clinical and laboratory features. It is vital to establish a new screening model based on HbA2 levels and red cell indices for the differentiation of TT from IDA in hypochromic microcytic anemia cases.

Method

The data comprised of the red blood cell indices and HbA2 prenatal diagnostic test results of 810 individuals who were identified to conform to the following criteria: MCV < 80 fl or MCH < 26 pg. We launched a new model consisting mainly of significative red cell indices and HbA2 levels, as well as proposing cutoff values by using decision trees and logistic regression analyses. Next, we evaluated our new method by comparing the sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values with those of the previous formulas.

Results

We put forward a new model and compared it with 5 efficient formulas. The new model exhibited the highest accuracy (0.918), with its sensitivity and specificity calculated as 0.917 and 0.921, respectively. Our new model's Youden index was 0.838, which is higher than the other formulas' Youden indices.

Conclusions

The new screening model, based on HbA2 levels and red cell indices, is suitable for the screening of thalassemia patients in the hypochromic microcytic anemia group and has the best efficiency in distinguishing TT and IDA.
Nomilin targets the Keap1‐Nrf2 signalling and ameliorates the development of osteoarthritis
Authors: Xue Xing‐He , Xue Ji‐Xin , Hu Wei , Shi Fang‐Ling , Yang Yang
Published: June 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a long‐term and inflammatory disorder featured by cartilage erosion. Here, we describe nomilin (NOM), a triterpenoid with inflammation modulatory properties in variety of disorders. In this study, we demonstrated the latent mechanism of NOM in alleviating the progress of OA both in vitro and in vivo studies. The results showed that NOM pre‐treatment suppressed the IL‐1β–induced over‐regulation of pro‐inflammation factors, such as NO, IL‐6, PGE2, iNOS, TNF‐α and COX‐2. Moreover, NOM also down‐regulates the degradation of ECM induced by IL‐1β. Mechanistically, the NOM suppressed NF‐κB signalling via disassociation of Keap1‐Nrf2 in chondrocytes. Furthermore, NOM delays the disease progression in the mouse OA model. To sum up, this research indicated NOM possessed a new potential therapeutic option in osteoarthritis.
Health‐related quality of life and its predictors among the type 2 diabetes population of Bangladesh: A nation‐wide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Barua Lingkan , Faruque Mithila , Chowdhury Hasina Akhter , Banik Palash Chandra , Ali Liaquat
Published: June 2020

Aims/Introduction

We aimed to assess the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and identify its predictors among type 2 diabetes patients of Bangladesh.

Materials and Methods

This nationwide cross‐sectional study assessed HRQoL among 1,806 type 2 diabetes patients using the EuroQol‐5 Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ‐5D‐5L), and the responses were further translated into a single summary crosswalk index score using the UK time trade‐off value set. The predictors were determined using multinomial logistic regression analysis.

Results

The mean EQ‐5D‐5L index score was 0.62 (standard deviation 0.25), and men scored better than women. More than half of the study participants (53.4%) were ranked as “average” HRQoL. Overall, 64% of respondents had a “problem” at least in one of the dimensions of the EQ‐5D‐5L, and the burden of reported “problems” was higher among women (70%). Among the five dimensions, the highest reported “problem” was 79.8% for anxiety/depression, 77.7% for pain/discomfort and 60.1% for mobility. However, younger participants (aged <30 years) showed a higher burden of anxiety/depression (95%) compared with the rest of the population. The specific predictors of average/good HRQoL (odds ratio >1) were being men, living in a rural area, married, literate, a monthly income >19,488 BDT, absence of comorbidity and had a duration of diabetes ≤5 years.

Conclusions

The majority of Bangladesh’s type 2 diabetes patients had an “average” HRQoL based on the EQ‐5D‐5L index score. In broad terms, the identified predictors were sex, place of residence, marital status, literacy, monthly income, comorbidity and duration of diabetes.
Effect of time period on biaxial strength for different Y‐TZP veneering porcelains
Authors: Fahmi Mohammed , Giordano Russell , Pober Richard
Published: June 2020

Objective

To assess the influence of time period on strength for different conventional Y‐TZP porcelains.

Materials and methods

Four types of porcelain were used. Porcelain powders were pressed in a steel die and fired in a furnace as recommended by the manufacturer. The blocks were sectioned into 2 mm‐thick discs. Seventy specimens were fabricated from each type of porcelain. Of six jars, three contained 40 mL of dH2O and three were dry. Ten specimens were placed in each jar and stored in an incubator at 37°C. A biaxial flexural strength test was performed for all specimens at the baseline and each succeeding year for all groups, for 3 years, using an Instron with a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min.

Results

The data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey at α = .05. At the baseline, the biaxial flexural strength of VitaVM9 was significantly higher than that of NobelRondo; however, there were no significant differences among Vita VM9 and Noritake CZR or NobelRondo, Lava Ceram, and Noritake CZR. There were significant reductions in the biaxial flexural strengths of all porcelains.

Conclusions

After 3 years, all porcelain groups showed a significant decrease in biaxial flexural strength. The medium used is found to have no significant effects on the mean biaxial flexural strength.

Clinical Significance

Certain commercially available Y‐TZP porcelains are susceptible to decrease in strength over time, which might impact the integrity of veneered zirconia restorations. This reduction in strength is among the most common reasons for the failure of veneered zirconia as reported in several studies.
Survival of toxigenic Escherichia coli on chamomile, peppermint, green, black, ginger, and cinnamon teas during storage and brewing
Authors: Liu Yanan , Wu Fan , Zhu Yan , Chen Yirui , Murray Kayla , Lu Zhaoxin , Warriner Keith
Published: June 2020

In this study, the persistence of toxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) on dried chamomile, peppermint, ginger, cinnamon, black and green teas stored under 4, 10, and 25°C was determined. The E. coli survival rate in ginger and cinnamon teas decreased below 0 on Day 5. In the other tested teas, E. coli survivability showed a downward trend over time, but never dropped to 0. Chamomile tea retained the greatest population of viable E. coli. Meanwhile, die‐off of E. coli was higher at 25°C compared to lower temperatures. Additionally, fate of E. coli during brewing at 60, 70 and 80°C was evaluated. The E. coli population was reduced to below 2 Log colony forming units (CFU)/g after 1 min at 80°C, At the same time, the E. coli survival at 60°C was higher than that at 70°C in all tested teas. The data indicated that if E. coli survives after storage of prepared teas, it may also survive and grow after the brewing process, especially if performed using temperatures <80°C. Finally, we analyzed the correlations between temperature, time, tea varieties and E. coli survival, and successfully constructed a random forest regression model. The results of this study can be used to predict changes in E. coli during storage and fate during the brewing process. Results will form the basis of undertaking a risk assessment.
Diabetic polyneuropathy: Bridging the translational gap
Authors: Kobayashi Masaki , Zochodne Douglas W.
Published: June 2020

Clinical trials for diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) have failed to identify therapeutic impacts that have arrested or reversed the disorder, despite a long history. This review considers DPN in the context of a unique neurodegenerative disorder that targets peripheral neurons and their companion glial cells. The approach is to examine what cells, cell substructures, and pathways are implicated in causing DPN and how they might be addressed therapeutically. These include axonopathy, neuronopathy, hyperglycemia, polyol flux, advanced glycation endproduct (AGE)‐receptor AGE signaling, growth factor disruption, abnormal insulin signaling, and abnormalities of other intrinsic neuron pathways. Mitochondrial dysfunction and lipid toxicity are largely delegated to the companion review in this issue by Stino and Feldman. Finally, the linkage between axon plasticity of cutaneous nerves, peripheral neuroregenerative pathways, and diabetes are discussed.
Effects of Combined Use of Mother’s Breast Milk, Heartbeat Sounds, and Non‐Nutritive Sucking on Preterm Infants’ Behavioral Stress During Venipuncture: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Hsiang‐Ping , Yang Luke , Lan Hsiang‐Yun , Peng Hsueh‐Fang , Chang Yue‐Cune , Jeng Mei‐Jy , Liaw Jen‐Jiuan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Even routine procedures can cause pain and stress, and can be harmful to the fast‐growing brain of preterm infants. Mitigating pain and stress with sucrose and analgesics has side effects; thus, an alternate choice is the use of natural breast milk and infants’ sensory capabilities. Therefore, this study examined the effects of different integrations of sensory experiences—mother’s breast milk odor and taste (BM‐OT), heartbeat sounds (HBs), and non‐nutritive sucking (NNS)—on preterm infant’s behavioral stress during venipuncture.

Design

This study was a prospective, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Infants born preterm (<37 weeks’ gestational age) were enrolled in the study through convenience sampling, and randomly assigned to the following conditions: (condition 1) routine care (n = 36); (condition 2) BM‐OT (n = 33); (condition 3) BM‐OT + HBs (n = 33); or (condition 4) BM‐OT + HBs + NNS (n = 36). Crying duration from puncture to recovery period was recorded using a voice recorder. Facial actions and body movements were measured using an infant behavioral coding scheme and transformed into frequencies during seven stages: baseline (stage 0), disinfecting (stage 1), venipuncture (stage 2), and the recovery period for 10 minutes (stages 3–6).

Findings

Data were analyzed for 138 preterm infants. The corresponding median times to stop crying for conditions 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 137, 79, 81, and 39 s, respectively; the instantaneous occurrence rates of stopping crying for conditions 2, 3, and 4 were 1.469, 1.574, and 2.996 times greater than for condition 1, respectively. Infants receiving conditions 3 and 4 had significantly fewer occurrences of facial actions (stage 6 and stages 4–6, respectively) and body movements (stages 3–6 for both); however, there were no significant reductions in stress behaviors for condition 2 (BM‐OT).

Conclusions

The combination of BM‐OT, HBs, and NNS could be provided to preterm infants as interventions to prevent and reduce behavioral stress, and facilitate pain recovery during venipuncture procedures.

Clinical Relevance

Clinicians should be educated about how to recognize preterm infants’ behavioral stress, and to incorporate different sensory combinations of respective mothers’ BM, HBs, and NNS into painful procedures to help preterm infants recover from distress.
Chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) method for atrophic scars: A comprehensive review
Authors: Chung Hye Jin , Al Janahi Sara , Cho Sung Bin , Chang Yunyoung Claire
Published: June 2020

Background

Chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) applies a high strength acid focally to treat atrophic scars. Although this method has gained popularity over the past two decades, no standardized treatment guideline exists for CROSS method in the treatment of atrophic scars.

Aims

The purpose of this comprehensive review was to evaluate the indications, detailed techniques, efficacy, and safety of CROSS method.

Materials and Methods

An extensive literature review was conducted to identify articles relating to CROSS method for atrophic scars from 2002 to 2018.

Results

The literature search yielded 19 articles meeting criteria. CROSS method has been used for the treatment of acne scars, varicella scars, enlarged pores, and depressed surgical scars. In studies using the quantile grading scale for acne scars, 60%‐100% of patients showed >25% improvement. In two studies for varicella scars, 83%‐100% of patients showed >25% improvement. CROSS method seems to be effective specifically for ice‐pick scars. It is well tolerated and safe in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I‐V. Most reported complications are temporary and include postinflammatory dyspigmentation, erythema, pain, pruritus, infection, and widening of scars.

Conclusion

This literature review suggests that CROSS method is a safe and effective treatment for atrophic scars, especially ice‐pick scars, in skin types I‐V. However, current published works have several limitations, including small sample sizes, lack of control group, different concentrations of acid, different frequency of treatments, and follow‐up periods. Larger, randomized, controlled studies are needed to elucidate the optimal treatment protocol of CROSS method.
The efficacy of intense pulsed light for Becker's nevus: A retrospective analysis of 45 cases
Authors: Zhong Yiping , Huang Lining , Chen Yongjun , Yan Tingting , Yang Bin , Man Mao‐Qiang
Published: June 2020

Background

Becker's nevus is a common skin disorder. Lasers and light instruments are the major modalities for the treatment of Becker's nevus, but the outcomes were mixed.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of the intense pulsed light for Becker's nevus in a large Chinese cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy of the intense pulsed light for Becker's nevus in a single center.

Results

A total of 45 patients, including 26 males and 19 females (male to female ratio = 1.4), aged 5‐42 years, were included in this analysis. Twenty‐seven patients (60%) were with hypertrichosis. Treatments with intense pulsed light resulted in over 75% improvements in pigmentation and hair density in 1 and 2 cases, respectively. One patient displayed 51%‐75% reductions in hair density. The rest displayed ≤50% improvements in pigmentation and hair density. Recurrence occurred in all cases within 6 months after the last treatment. Adverse reactions were temporary and mild hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, hypertrophic scar, pain, and erythema.

Conclusion

Intense pulsed light does not exhibit long‐term benefits for Becker's nevus. Further studies in the large cohort are still required to validate the present results. Moreover, whether changes in the treatment parameters can improve the efficacy of intense pulsed light remains to be explored.
Bath immersion pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Rairat Tirawat , Kuo Yu‐Shin , Chang Chao‐Chia , Hsieh Chia‐Yu , Chou Chi‐Chung
Published: June 2020

Drug administration by immersion can be a preferable method in certain conditions especially for treating small‐sized, anorexic, or valuable fish. Pharmacokinetic information regarding bath treatment is considerably lacking in comparison to other common administration routes. The current study aimed to investigate if immersion can be an effective route to administer florfenicol (FF) for treatment in Nile tilapia. Nile tilapia reared at 28°C were immersed with FF solution at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 500/200 (3 hr/117 hr) ppm for 120 hr and moved to drug‐free freshwater for another 24 hr. The serum FF concentration in 100, 200, and 500/200 ppm groups reached steady‐state at 12 hr with concentrations of 2.44, 3.04, and 5.26 µg/ml, respectively, which were about 2% of the bathing concentrations. The target therapeutic levels of 1–4 µg/ml were attained and maintained within 1–12 hr, depending on the immersion concentration and the target MIC. Serum FF reached the target with shorter time at higher bathing concentration. Following the 120‐hr bath, the serum FF declined with the first‐order half‐life of approximately 10 hr. A minimum of 100 ppm FF is required for treatment purpose, and an initial high loading concentration followed by maintenance concentration is a plausible way to reach in vivo therapeutic level in short time. Greater than 99% of the residual FF in the bathing water could be removed within 15 min by 0.05% NaOCl. Our results indicated that bath immersion is a promising potential route for FF administration in Nile tilapia.
Directional trends in species composition over time can lead to a widespread overemphasis of year‐to‐year asynchrony
Authors: Valencia Enrique , de Bello Francesco , Lepš Jan , Galland Thomas , E‐Vojtkó Anna , Conti Luisa , Danihelka Jiří , Dengler Jürgen , Eldridge David J. , Estiarte Marc , García‐González Ricardo , Garnier Eric , Gómez Daniel , Harrison Susan , Herben Tomas , Ibáñez Ricardo , Jentsch Anke , Juergens Norbert , Kertész Miklós , Klumpp Katja , Louault Frédérique , Marrs Rob H. , Ónodi Gábor , Pakeman Robin J. , Pärtel Meelis , Peco Begoña , Peñuelas Josep , Rueda Marta , Schmidt Wolfgang , Schmiedel Ute , Schuetz Martin , Skalova Hana , Šmilauer Petr , Šmilauerová Marie , Smit Christian , Song Ming‐Hua , Stock Martin , Val James , Vandvik Vigdis , Wesche Karsten , Woodcock Ben A. , Young Truman P. , Yu Fei‐Hai , Zobel Martin , Götzenberger Lars
Published: June 2020

Questions

Compensatory dynamics are described as one of the main mechanisms that increase community stability, e.g., where decreases of some species on a year‐to‐year basis are offset by an increase in others. Deviations from perfect synchrony between species (asynchrony) have therefore been advocated as an important mechanism underlying biodiversity effects on stability. However, it is unclear to what extent existing measures of synchrony actually capture the signal of year‐to‐year species fluctuations in the presence of long‐term directional trends in both species abundance and composition (species directional trends hereafter). Such directional trends may lead to a misinterpretation of indices commonly used to reflect year‐to‐year synchrony.

Methods

An approach based on three‐term local quadrat variance (T3) which assesses population variability in a three‐year moving window, was used to overcome species directional trend effects. This “detrending” approach was applied to common indices of synchrony across a worldwide collection of 77 temporal plant community datasets comprising almost 7,800 individual plots sampled for at least six years. Plots included were either maintained under constant “control” conditions over time or were subjected to different management or disturbance treatments.

Results

Accounting for directional trends increased the detection of year‐to‐year synchronous patterns in all synchrony indices considered. Specifically, synchrony values increased significantly in ~40% of the datasets with the T3 detrending approach while in ~10% synchrony decreased. For the 38 studies with both control and manipulated conditions, the increase in synchrony values was stronger for longer time series, particularly following experimental manipulation.

Conclusions

Species’ long‐term directional trends can affect synchrony and stability measures potentially masking the ecological mechanism causing year‐to‐year fluctuations. As such, previous studies on community stability might have overemphasised the role of compensatory dynamics in real‐world ecosystems, and particularly in manipulative conditions, when not considering the possible overriding effects of long‐term directional trends.
Shared reading as a practice for fostering early learning in an Early Childhood Education and Care centre: a naturalistic, comparative study of one infant's experiences with two educators
Authors: Torr Jane
Published: June 2020

Early childhood educators are encouraged to read with infants, yet little is known about the educator–infant book‐focused interactions that occur in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) centres. This study provides a systematic linguistic analysis of the naturally occurring interactions between one focal child Charlie (aged 21 months and 13 days) and two of his educators, as they each engaged in shared reading with Charlie and one or more of his peers during a typical day in his infant room. While both educators engaged in shared reading for pedagogical purposes, the meanings realised in their talk differed in subtle ways, providing Charlie and his peers with tacit and sometimes contradictory messages about how to make meaning from words and pictures. One educator's proportionally greater use of mental processes and polar questions construed shared reading primarily as an interpretive activity, while the other educator's proportionally greater use of WH questions and directives construed shared reading primarily as an instructional activity. Differences were also observed in Charlie's verbal participation during the two shared readings. The findings reveal how educators, through their own talk, create particular contexts in which infants may or may not participate during shared reading experiences.
Distinct T‐cell receptor profiles associated with hepatitis B e antigen seroconversion during entecavir treatment
Authors: Lian Yi‐Fan , Xu Ying , Gu Yu‐Rong , Bi Yan‐Hua , Liao Chun‐Hong , Zhao Miao‐Xian , Liao Xia‐Lin , Wang Zhan‐Hui , Wu Hong‐Kai , Huang Yue‐Hua
Published: June 2020

Background & Aims

T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoire is ambiguously changed in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients during antivirus therapy. We tried to assess TCR repertoire dynamics and its clinical significance upon HBeAg seroconversion in CHB patients.

Methods

Twenty CHB patients undergoing 1‐year entecavir (ETV) treatment were enrolled, including 10 complete response (CR) vs 10 non‐complete response (NCR) patients based on HBeAg seroconversion at week 48. The TCRβ complementarity‐determining region 3 (CDR3) of peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells at weeks 0, 12 and 48 was analyzed by unbiased high‐throughput sequencing. The TCR repertoire profiles and their correlations with serological parameters were analyzed.

Results

The diversity of TCRβ repertoires was decreasing in CR patients but increasing in NCR patients. The distribution pattern of TCR repertoires stratified according to clonotype frequencies changed in the opposite direction between CR and NCR patients. Narrow amounts of newly appearing clonotypes in CR patients experienced a more intensive and robust expansion and this phenomenon could occur as early as week 12 for the CD4+ subset but later at week 48 for the CD8+ subset. There existed some CR‐exclusive clonotypes with a relatively low but increasing frequency at week 48. The number of unique TCRβ clonotypes was positively correlated with the ALT or HBV DNA level in CR patients but showed no or negative correlation in NCR patients.

Conclusion

Distinct TCR profiles contribute to predicting HBeAg seroconversion in CHB patients during ETV treatment and certain TCRβ CDR3 motif may be utilized for CHB immunotherapy in the future.
Metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease is associated with severity of COVID‐19
Authors: Zhou Yu‐Jie , Zheng Kenneth I. , Wang Xiao‐Bo , Sun Qing‐Feng , Pan Ke‐Hua , Wang Ting‐Yao , Ma Hong‐Lei , Chen Yong‐Ping , George Jacob , Zheng Ming‐Hua
Published: June 2020

The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has attracted increasing worldwide attention. While metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) affects a quarter of world population, its impact on COVID‐19 severity has not been characterized. We identified 55 MAFLD patients with COVID‐19, who were 1:1 matched by age, sex and obesity status to non‐aged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)‐infected patients without MAFLD. Our results demonstrate that in patients aged less than 60 years with COVID‐19, MAFLD is associated with an approximately fourfold increase (adjusted odds ratio 4.07, 95% confidence interval 1.20‐13.79, P = .02) in the probability for severe disease, after adjusting for confounders. Healthcare professionals caring for patients with COVID‐19 need to be aware that there is a positive association between MAFLD and severe illness with COVID‐19.