bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting parents of children aged 2–13 with toileting difficulties: Group‐based workshops versus individual appointments
Authors: Collis Dianne , Kennedy‐Behr Ann , Kearney Lauren
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Toileting is a key activity of daily living and an important milestone in children’s development. Difficulties with this process can cause stress to both child and parents and negatively affect their wellbeing. This study compared the perceived parental competence and child wellbeing of families attending a group‐based workshop on toileting issues with families attending an individual appointment at a continence clinic.

Methods

All parents attending the workshops and attending the clinic between July 2016 and December 2017 were invited to participate in the study. The children were aged between 2 and 13 years. Three measures were used: 1) Parenting Sense of Competence Scale; (2) the Revised Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children (KINDLR) and (3) Parent self‐assessment of information and support needs. Participants completed all measures at three points: prior to intervention, 1 week and 1 month post‐intervention.

Results

Data were collected from 89 parents attending the workshops and 46 parents attending the clinic. Children were not assessed. Non‐parametric tests were used to examine between group differences. Within group changes overtime were examined using Friedman’s two‐way analysis of variance. Parents who attended the workshop showed significant increases in parenting sense of competence and perceived child quality of life post‐intervention.

Although there were significant differences between and pre‐ and post‐measures for workshop attendees, there were no significant differences found between the two groups indicating that both forms of intervention had beneficial results.

Conclusion

These results suggest that group‐based workshops can positively impact parents’ perceived competence in managing their child’s toileting issues and wellbeing. Further research is recommended to explore the relationship between parenting competence and child wellbeing and to determine which aspects of the workshops were most beneficial.
The urban and the rural in Puno, highland Peru
Authors: BRANCA DOMENICO
Published: December 2019

This article describes and analyzes important aspects of the relationship between the urban and the rural in the south of the Peruvian department of Puno. The author argues that the assumed arbitrariness of the border between the countryside and the city, between the urban and the rural, is extremely widespread and that Andean peasant communities are undergoing more and more integrating processes at different levels which, rather than determining the disintegration of these communities, are resulting in their redefinition. Kinship networks create flows that include people within much broader contexts than in the past, and both cities and peasant communities can be seen to exist within forms of modernity that do not necessarily correspond to Euro‐American patterns.
Parents’ constructions of normality and pathology in child mental health assessments
Authors: O'Reilly Michelle , Muskett Tom , Karim Khalid , Lester Jessica N.
Published: November 2019

Central to a contemporary understanding of childhood is the developmental and clinical‐medical construct of the ‘normal’ child. When judged to fall outside of culturally, socially and historically situated parameters of ‘normality’, children become labelled as ‘deviant from the norm’; for instance, in mental health contexts where this may provide the basis for psychiatric diagnosis. However, judgements of a child's ‘normality’ are further complicated by the range of individuals who may have a stake in that construction, including parents/carers, professionals and the child themselves. Using discursive psychology, we analysed 28 video‐recorded UK child mental health assessments, to examine ways that parents presented concerns about their children's development. They did this by drawing on notions of ‘ab/normal’, in ways that functioned to legitimise their need for services and built a rhetorical case to demonstrate clinical need; often by contrasting the child with other ‘typical’ children and/or contrasting the same child's behaviour in different settings or contexts. We concluded that given the growing crisis in child mental health, initial assessments play a crucial clinical role in determining diagnosis and labelling, and therefore, a critical discussion of these concepts and processes is essential.
Maternal lipids are associated with newborn adiposity, independent of GDM status, obesity and insulin resistance: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Samsuddin S , Arumugam PA , Md. Amin Md.S , Yahya A , Musa N , Lim L‐L , Paramasivam SS , Ratnasingam J , Ibrahim L , Chooi KC , Tan ATB , Tan PC , Omar SZ , Samingan N , Ahmad Kamar A , Anuar Zaini A , Jalaluddin MY , Vethakkan SR
Published: November 2019

Objective

To determine the association between maternal lipaemia and neonatal anthropometrics in Malaysian mother–offspring pairs.

Design

Prospective observational cohort study.

Setting

Single tertiary multidisciplinary antenatal clinic in Malaysia.

Population

A total of 507 mothers: 145 with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM); 94 who were obese with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) (pre‐gravid body mass index, BMI ≥ 27.5 kg/m2), and 268 who were not obese with NGT.

Methods

Maternal demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data were collected during an interview/examination using a structured questionnaire. Blood was drawn for insulin, C‐peptide, triglyceride (Tg), and non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) during the 75‐g 2‐hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) screening, and again at 36 weeks of gestation. At birth, neonatal anthropometrics were assessed and data such as gestational weight gain (GWG) were extracted from the records.

Main outcome measures

Macrosomia, large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA) status, cohort‐specific birthweight (BW), neonatal fat mass (NFM), and sum of skinfold thickness (SSFT) > 90th centile.

Results

Fasting Tg > 95th centile (3.6 mmol/L) at screening for OGTT was independently associated with LGA (adjusted odds ratio, aOR 10.82, 95% CI 1.26–93.37) after adjustment for maternal glucose, pre‐gravid BMI, and insulin sensitivity. Fasting glucose was independently associated with a birthweight ratio (BWR) of >90th centile (aOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.17–3.64), but not with LGA status, in this well‐treated GDM cohort with pre‐delivery HbA1c of 5.27%. In all, 45% of mothers had a pre‐gravid BMI of <23 kg/m2 and 61% had a pre‐gravid BMI of ≤ 25 kg/m2, yet a GWG of >10 kg was associated with a 4.25‐fold risk (95% CI 1.71–10.53) of BWR > 90th centile.

Conclusion

Maternal lipaemia and GWG at a low threshold (>10 kg) adversely impact neonatal adiposity in Asian offspring, independent of glucose, insulin resistance and pre‐gravid BMI. These may therefore be important modifiable metabolic targets in pregnancy.

Tweetable abstract

Maternal lipids are associated with adiposity in Asian babies independently of pre‐gravid BMI, GDM status, and insulin resistance.
Development and validation of a model to predict the need for emergency front‐of‐neck airway procedures in trauma patients
Authors: Okada Y. , Hashimoto K. , Ishii W. , Iiduka R. , Koike K.
Published: December 2019

The present study aimed to develop and validate a model for predicting the need for emergency front‐of neck airway (eFONA) procedures among trauma patients. This was a multicentre retrospective cohort study using data from the Japan Trauma Data Bank between January 2004 and December 2017. Only adult trauma patients were included. The cohort was divided into development and validation cohorts. A simple scoring system was developed to predict the necessity for emergency front‐of neck airway procedures in the development cohort using a logistic regression model. The external validity and diagnostic ability of the scoring system was assessed in the validation cohort. In total, 198,182 out of 294,274 patients were included; emergency front‐of‐neck airway occurred in 467 patients (0.24%) they were divided into development (n = 100,120 with 0.22% undergoing emergency front‐of neck airway) and validation (n = 98,062 with 0.25% undergoing emergency front‐of neck airway) cohorts. The ‘eFONA’ prediction scoring system was developed in the development cohort, with a score of +1 for each of the following: Eye opening (no eye opening in response to any stimuli); Fall from height or motor bike; Oral–maxillofacial injury; Neck tracheal injury; and Airway management by paramedics. In the validation cohort, the C‐statistic of the scoring system was 0.820. Setting the cut‐off value at one for rule‐out, the sensitivity and negative likelihood ratios were 0.86 and 0.22, respectively. Setting the cut‐off value at two for rule‐in, the specificity and positive likelihood ratios were 0.91 and 6.6, respectively. The present scoring system may assist in predicting the need for emergency front‐of neck airway procedures among the general trauma population.
Does Intra‐regional Trade Matter in Regional Stock Markets? New Evidence from the Asia‐Pacific Region
Authors: Kim Sei‐Wan , Choi Moon Jung , Kim Young‐Min
Published: November 2019

We provide new evidence on the relationship between bilateral trade and stock market returns across the Asia‐Pacific region. Using three country blocs in this region, including the Far Eastern bloc, the Chinese bloc and the Australian bloc, we examine whether trade linkages between countries affect their stock returns. Incorporating two distinct dynamic properties of regime shifting and cointegration in intra‐regional trade and stock market returns, we employ the newly suggested multivariable smooth transition autoregressive vector error correction model (STAR‐VECM). A series of estimations reveals evidence that bilateral trade significantly Granger‐causes stock returns in the Asia‐Pacific region, with effects that are asymmetric depending upon the stock market regime and the country pair. Among the three blocs, the Far Eastern bloc displays a more pronounced positive effect of bilateral trade growth on stock returns than do the other blocs.
Determinants of Smallholder Farmers' Marketing Channel Choice: Evidence from the Vietnamese Rice Sector
Authors: Pham Thai Thuy , Theuvsen Ludwig , Otter Verena
Published: November 2019

Cash crops such as specialty rice and other high‐value varieties produced for domestic and international markets are considered an increasing source of income for smallholder farmers in many Asian countries. The present study focuses on the factors affecting Vietnamese specialty rice farmers' choice of marketing channel and how their choice influences farm performance. The analysis has been conducted using multinomial logit and linear regression models on quantitative data collected from 280 specialty rice farmers in the Red River Delta, one of the main rice production regions in Vietnam. Results reveal that even though local collectors and wholesalers are still the most common recipients of farmers' goods in rural areas, reduction in transaction costs with regard to uncertainty influences farmers to choose modern marketing channels through collective action (via specialty rice farmer associations). This collective marketing channel helps farmers increase average prices received by US$0.028 per kg of paddy. Based on the results, manifold political implications are derived.
Phase 1 study of capmatinib in MET‐positive solid tumor patients: Dose escalation and expansion of selected cohorts
Authors: Bang Yung‐Jue , Su Wu‐Chou , Schuler Martin , Nam Do‐Hyun , Lim Wan Teck , Bauer Todd M. , Azaro Analia , Poon Ronnie Tung Ping , Hong David , Lin Chia‐Chi , Akimov Mikhail , Ghebremariam Samson , Zhao Sylvia , Giovannini Monica , Ma Brigette
Published: November 2019

Capmatinib is an oral, ATP‐competitive, and highly potent, type 1b MET inhibitor. Herein, we report phase 1 dose‐escalation results for capmatinib in advanced MET‐positive solid tumor patients and dose expansion in advanced non‐lung tumors. Capmatinib was well tolerated with a manageable safety profile across all explored doses. Dose‐limiting toxicities (DLT) occurred at 200 mg twice daily (bid), 250 mg bid, and 450 mg bid capsules; however, no DLT were reported at 600 mg bid (capsules). Capmatinib tablets at 400 mg bid had comparable tolerability and exposure to that of 600 mg bid capsules. Maximum tolerated dose was not reached; recommended phase 2 dose was 400 mg bid tablets/600 mg bid capsules; at this dose, Ctrough >EC90 (90% inhibition of c‐MET phosphorylation in animal models) is expected to be achieved and maintained. Among the dose‐expansion patients (N = 38), best overall response across all cohorts was stable disease (gastric cancer 22%, hepatocellular carcinoma 46%, other indications 28%); two other indication patients with gene copy number (GCN) ≥6 achieved substantial tumor reduction. Near‐complete immunohistochemically determined phospho‐MET inhibition (H‐score = 2) was shown following capmatinib 450 mg bid capsule in paired biopsies obtained from one advanced colorectal cancer patient. Incidence of high‐level MET GCN (GCN ≥6) and MET‐overexpressing (immunohistochemistry 3+) tumors in the expansion cohorts was 8% and 13%, respectively; no MET mutations were observed. Thus, the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of capmatinib was 600 mg bid capsule/400 mg bid tablet. Capmatinib was well tolerated and showed antitumor activity and acceptable safety profile at the RP2D.

(ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01324479).
The expanding spectrum of movement disorders in genetic epilepsies
Authors: Papandreou Apostolos , Danti Federica Rachele , Spaull Robert , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Mctague Amy , Kurian Manju A
Published: December 2019

An ever‐increasing number of neurogenetic conditions presenting with both epilepsy and atypical movements are now recognized. These disorders within the ‘genetic epilepsy‐dyskinesia’ spectrum are clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Increased clinical awareness is therefore necessary for a rational diagnostic approach. Furthermore, careful interpretation of genetic results is key to establishing the correct diagnosis and initiating disease‐specific management strategies in a timely fashion. In this review we describe the spectrum of movement disorders associated with genetically determined epilepsies. We also propose diagnostic strategies and putative pathogenic mechanisms causing these complex syndromes associated with both seizures and atypical motor control.

What this paper adds

Implicated genes encode proteins with very diverse functions.

Pathophysiological mechanisms by which epilepsy and movement disorder phenotypes manifest are often not clear.

Early diagnosis of treatable disorders is essential and next generation sequencing may be required.
Persistent whole day meal effects of three dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors on glycaemia and hormonal responses in metformin‐treated type 2 diabetes
Authors: Alsalim Wathik , Göransson Olga , Tura Andrea , Pacini Giovanni , Mari Andrea , Ahrén Bo
Published: December 2019

Aim

Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibition has effects on both fasting and postprandial glucose. However, the extent of this effect over the whole day and whether different DPP‐4 inhibitors have the same effects have not been established. We therefore explored the whole day effects of three different DPP‐4 inhibitors versus placebo on glucose, islet and incretin hormones after ingestion of breakfast, lunch and dinner in subjects with metformin‐treated and well‐controlled type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The study was single‐centre and crossover designed, involving 24 subjects [12 men, 12 women, mean age 63 years, body mass index 31.0 kg/m2, glycated haemoglobin 44.7 mmol/mol (6.2%)], who underwent four test days in random order. Each whole day test included ingestion of standardized breakfast (525 kcal), lunch (780 kcal) and dinner (560 kcal) after intake of sitagliptin (100 mg) or vildagliptin (50 mg twice), or saxagliptin (5 mg) or placebo.

Results

Compared with placebo, DPP‐4 inhibition reduced glucose levels, increased beta‐cell function (insulin secretory rate in relation to glucose), suppressed glucagon, increased intact glucagon‐like‐peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) but suppressed total GLP‐1 and GIP after all three meals. The effects were sustained throughout the daytime period with similar changes after each meal and did not differ between the DPP‐4 inhibitors.

Conclusions

DPP‐4 inhibition has persistent daytime effects on glucose, islet and incretin hormones with no difference between three different DPP‐4 inhibitors.
Clinical correlates of hand‐held ultrasound‐guided assessments of the inferior vena cava in patients with acute decompensated heart failure
Authors: Patnaik Soumya , Davila Carlos D. , Lu Marvin , Alhamshari Yaser , Shah Mahek , Jorde Ulrich P. , Pressman Gregg S. , Banerji Sourin
Published: December 2019

Background

Accurately assessing volume status in acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) can be challenging. Inferior vena cava (IVC) dynamics by echocardiography allow indirect assessment of volume status in these patients. Recently introduced hand‐held ultrasound devices are promising. We aimed to describe the clinical correlates of volume status assessment using a hand‐held ultrasound device in ADHF.

Methods

In this prospective study, we evaluated 106 patients admitted with ADHF. First scan was performed within 24 hours of admission and timed in reference to first dose of intravenous diuretic. Daily resting and inspiratory (sniff) IVC diameters were measured according to standard echocardiography methods during hospitalization including the day of discharge. IVC collapsibility index (IVC‐CI = Maximum IVC diameter‐Inspiratory IVC diameter/maximum diameter; <0.5 representing hypervolemia) was calculated. Primary study endpoint was 30‐day readmission. Research activities were independent of clinical decision‐making.

Results

Data for 106 patients was analyzed. Mean age was 66.7 ± 13.8 years, of which 53.8% were females, and a mean ejection fraction was 39 ± 18%. Initial scan of the IVC was obtained at an average time of 5.2 ± 8.04 hours from first diuretic dose. 81.2% of patients at admission had an IVC‐CI <0.5. 63.2% patients had an IVC‐CI <0.5 at discharge. There were no significant differences in age, length of stay, diuretic dose, or 30‐day readmissions between patients with a discharge IVC‐CI <0.5 vs ≥ 0.5.

Conclusion

Hand‐held ultrasound assessment of IVC‐CI in ADHF patients, although a feasible concept, is unable to predict 30‐day readmissions in our study. Further prospective studies are necessary.
The Inclusive Leader, the Smart Strategist and the Forced Altruist: Subject Positions for Men as Gender Equality Partners
Authors: Kelan Elisabeth K.
Published: December 2019

This article explores how men are conceptualised as partners in gender equality processes in organisations against the backdrop of a postfeminist sensibility. Drawing on interviews that formed part of organisational ethnographies, the article highlights three subject positions that men are encouraged to adopt: the inclusive leader, the smart strategist, and the forced altruist. All three subject positions entail the construction of men as disadvantaged through a focus on women. While theorists of postfeminism have shown how women are made responsible for their own success and failure with structural gender inequalities being disavowed, the opposite logic seems to operate for men; if men do not succeed, it is due to unequal gender structures that favour women. Alternative subject positions could focus on making men's privilege visible or on that men who support gender equality might accelerate their careers. The article also shows that gender equality is still seen as a women's issue rather than an issue that concerns both women and men.
Regulation of mononuclear phagocyte function by the microbiota at mucosal sites
Authors: Scott Nicholas A. , Mann Elizabeth R.
Published: November 2019

Mucosal tissues contain distinct microbial communities that differ drastically depending on the barrier site, and as such, mucosal immune responses have evolved to be tailored specifically for their location. Whether protective or regulatory immune responses against invading pathogens or the commensal microbiota occur is controlled by local mononuclear phagocytes (MNPs). Comprising macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), the functions of these cells are highly dependent on the local environment. For example, the intestine contains the greatest bacterial load of any site in the body, and hence, intestinal MNPs are hyporesponsive to bacterial stimulation. This is thought to be one of the major mechanisms by which harmful immune responses directed against the trillions of harmless bacteria that line the gut lumen are avoided. Regulation of MNP function by the microbiota has been characterized in the most depth in the intestine but there are several mucosal sites that also contain their own microbiota. In this review, we present an overview of how MNP function is regulated by the microbiota at mucosal sites, highlighting recent novel pathways by which this occurs in the intestine, and new studies elucidating these interactions at mucosal sites that have been characterized in less depth, including the urogenital tract.
Growing, evolving and sticking in a flowing environment: understanding IgA interactions with bacteria in the gut
Authors: Hoces Daniel , Arnoldini Markus , Diard Médéric , Loverdo Claude , Slack Emma
Published: November 2019

Immunology research in the last 50 years has made huge progress in understanding the mechanisms of anti‐bacterial defense of deep, normally sterile, tissues such as blood, spleen and peripheral lymph nodes. In the intestine, with its dense commensal microbiota, it seems rare that this knowledge can be simply translated. Here we put forward the idea that perhaps it is not always the theory of immunology that is lacking to explain mucosal immunity, but rather that we have overlooked crucial parts of the mucosal immunological language required for its translation: namely intestinal and bacterial physiology. We will try to explain this in the context of intestinal secretory antibodies (mainly secretory IgA), which have been described to prevent, to alter, to not affect, or to promote colonization of the intestine and gut‐draining lymphoid tissues, and where effector mechanisms have remained elusive. In fact, these apparently contradictory outcomes can be generated by combining the basic premises of bacterial agglutination with an understanding of bacterial growth (i.e. secretory IgA‐driven enchained growth), fluid handling and bacterial competition in the gut lumen.
Crop water stress index for scheduling irrigation of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) based on water use efficiency considerations
Authors: Kumar Navsal , Poddar Arunava , Shankar Vijay , Ojha Chandra Shekhar Prasad , Adeloye Adebayo Johnson
Published: November 2019

The study was conducted to determine the feasibility of canopy temperature based crop water stress index (CWSI) for scheduling irrigation of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). Field crop experiments were conducted in Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (India) during three consecutive cropping seasons (2015, 2016 and 2017). The experimental field was divided into five plots with different levels of irrigation treatments based on depletion of total available soil water (TASW) in the crop root zone. The maximum soil moisture depletion (SMD) of TASW at 10%, 30% and 50%, full irrigated (non‐stressed) and extremely dry (full stressed) conditions were maintained in respective plots. Relationships were developed between canopy‐air temperature differential (TC‐TA) and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) for non‐stressed and fully stressed conditions to generate non‐water‐stressed baseline (NWSB) and maximum water‐stressed baseline (MWSB) baselines for Indian mustard crop. The CWSI was computed for different SMD of TASW by using a proven empirical approach based on the baselines. The irrigation treatment corresponding to 30% SMD with a mean CWSI of 0.4 resulted in optimal yield and maximum water use efficiency. Results of the study suggest that established CWSI value can be used to detect stress and schedule irrigations for Indian mustard.
Left bundle branch area pacing is superior to right ventricular septum pacing concerning depolarization‐repolarization reserve
Authors: Wang Jingfeng , Liang Yixiu , Wang Wei , Chen Xueying , Bai Jin , Chen Haiyan , Su Yangang , Chen Ruizhen , Ge Junbo
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has recently been reported to be a new physiological pacing strategy with clinical feasibility and safety. The present study aims to investigate depolarization‐repolarization measures including QT interval, QT dispersion (QTD), and Tpeak‐end interval (TpTe) in this novel LBBAP strategy.

Methods and Results

A total of 131 pacing‐indicated patients were prospectively enrolled and randomized to the LBBAP group (n = 66) and right ventricular septum pacing (RVSP) group (n = 65). LBBAP was successfully achieved in 61 subjects with stable lead performance and comparable complications (ie, pocket hematoma, lead perforation, and dislodgement) compared with RVSP. Of the 61 patients with successful LBBAP, the mean LV peak activation time was 67.89 ± 6.80 ms, with the LBB potential mapped in 46 cases (75.4%). Electrocardiogram (ECG) indices were compared between these two groups before and after implantation. As a result, LBBAP yielded a narrower paced QRS duration (121.49 ± 9.87 ms vs 145.62 ± 8.89 ms; P < .001), shorter QT interval (434.16 ± 32.70 ms vs 462.66 ± 32.04 ms; P < .001), and QTc interval (472.44 ± 33.30 ms vs 499.65 ± 31.35 ms; P < .001), lower QTD (40.10 ± 8.68 ms vs 46.11 ± 10.85 ms; P = .001), and QTcD (43.57 ± 8.78 ms vs 49.86 ± 11.98 ms; P = .001), and shorter TpTe (96.59 ± 10.76 ms vs 103.77 ± 10.16 ms; P < .001) than RVSP. However, TpTe/QT ratio did not differ between these two groups (0.223 ± 0.026 vs 0.225 ± 0.022; P = .733). Furthermore, LBBAP displayed less increased QRS duration, QTc interval, QTD, QTcD, and a more shortened QT interval compared with RVSP (all P < .05).

Conclusion

LBBAP proves to be a feasible and safe pacing procedure with better depolarization‐repolarization reserve, which may predict lower risk of ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.
European Dermatology Forum guidelines on topical photodynamic therapy 2019 Part 1: treatment delivery and established indications – actinic keratoses, Bowen's disease and basal cell carcinomas
Authors: Morton C.A. , Szeimies R.‐M. , Basset‐Seguin N. , Calzavara‐Pinton P. , Gilaberte Y. , Hædersdal M. , Hofbauer G.F.L. , Hunger R.E. , Karrer S. , Piaserico S. , Ulrich C. , Wennberg A.‐M. , Braathen L.R.
Published: November 2019

Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a widely approved therapy for actinic keratoses, Bowen's disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ), superficial and certain thin basal cell carcinomas. Recurrence rates when standard treatment protocols are used are typically equivalent to existing therapies, although inferior to surgery for nodular basal cell carcinoma. PDT can be used both as lesional and field therapies and has the potential to delay/reduce the development of new lesions. A protocol using daylight to treat actinic keratoses is widely practised, with conventional PDT using a red light after typically a 3‐h period of occlusion employed for other superficial skin cancer indications as well as for actinic keratoses when daylight therapy is not feasible. PDT is a well‐tolerated therapy although discomfort associated with conventional protocol may require pain‐reduction measures. PDT using daylight is associated with no or minimal pain and preferred by patient. There is an emerging literature on enhancing conventional PDT protocols or combined PDT with another treatment to increase response rates. This guideline, published over two parts, considers all current approved and emerging indications for the use of topical PDT in dermatology, prepared by the PDT subgroup of the European Dermatology Forum guidelines committee. It presents consensual expert recommendations reflecting current published evidence.
Biglycan regulates neuroinflammation by promoting M1 microglial activation in early brain injury after experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Xie Yuke , Peng Jianhua , Pang Jinwei , Guo Kecheng , Zhang Lifang , Yin Shigang , Zhou Jian , Gu Long , Tu Tianqi , Mu Qiancheng , Liao Yuyan , Zhang Xianhui , Chen Ligang , Jiang Yong
Published: November 2019

Neuroinflammation can be caused by various factors in early brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). One of the most important features of this process is M1 microglial activation. In turn, the TLR4/NF‐κB pathway plays an essential role in activating M1 phenotypic microglia. Biglycan, a small leucine‐rich proteoglycan, functions as an endogenous ligand of TLR4 and TLR2 in macrophages. However, the underlying mechanisms associated with microglial activation in stroke pathogenesis are poorly understood. Here, we aimed to identify the role of biglycan in neuroinflammation following SAH. In our study, SAH was induced by endovascular perforation in young male C57BL/6J mice. Lentiviral vector was administered intracerebroventricularly to knock down Biglycan. Post‐SAH assessments included neurobehavioral tests, immunofluorescence, western blot, qRT‐PCR, Co‐IP, flow cytometry, and ELISA. The biglycan level was markedly elevated following SAH in vivo. Of particularly note, knockdown of biglycan significantly improved neurological outcomes. TLR4 was bound with soluble biglycan in vitro. In addition, biglycan down‐regulation suppressed the expression of phosphorylated‐NF‐κB p65 (p‐NF‐κB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), as well as the cytokine (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6) production in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, we detected a decreased expression of CD16/32 and CD86, M1 markers when biglycan was inhibited in vitro. Our work suggests that biglycan can induce neuroinflammation by promoting M1 microglial activation at least in part through TLR4/NF‐κB signaling pathway after experimental SAH. Targeting biglycan may be a promising strategy for the clinical management of SAH.

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Randomized controlled double‐blind study of a cleanser composed of 5‐aminolevulinic acid and peptides on mild and moderate acne vulgaris
Authors: Lee Hyun Ji , Kim Jun Young , Park Kyung Duck , Lee Weon Ju
Published: November 2019

Background

Existing treatments of acne vulgaris may be complicated or elicit undesirable side effects. Therefore, new and safe therapeutic modalities are needed.

Objectives

We investigated the effects of a cleanser with 5‐aminolevulinic acid and peptides on mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

Methods

Sixty volunteers with mild to moderate acne vulgaris (IGA grade II–III) were randomly assigned to treatment or control groups of thirty respectively. Participants cleansed their faces twice a day for 8 weeks with either a cleanser with 5‐aminolevulinic acid and peptides (treatment) or with basic cleanser (control). The number of acne lesions (comedones, papules, pustules, and nodules), Michaelson's acne severity, and IGA were measured every 2 weeks and patient satisfaction and adverse events at week 8.

Results

Mean number of inflammatory acne lesions in treatment group decreased from 5.9 at baseline to 4.5 at week 4 and 4.1 at week 8 (in particular, P < .05). The mean number of noninflammatory lesions in treatment group decreased from 11.4 at baseline to 8.8 at week 4 and 7.4 at week 8 (in particular, P < .05). The mean value of Michaelson's acne severity index and IGA in treatment group also decreased from baseline to week 4 and week 8 (both in particular, P < .05). Investigator's assessment and patient satisfaction in treatment group at week 8 were better than control group. Adverse events in two groups were similar.

Conclusions

We think the cleanser with 5‐aminolevulinic acid and peptides is a useful and safe therapeutic agent for mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
Consistency of the Hill Estimator for Time Series Observed with Measurement Errors
Authors: Kim Mihyun , Kokoszka Piotr
Published: December 2019

We investigate the asymptotic and finite sample behavior of the Hill estimator applied to time series contaminated by measurement or other errors. We show that for all discrete time models used in practice, whose non‐contaminated marginal distributions are regularly varying, the Hill estimator is consistent. Essentially, the only assumption on the errors is that they have lighter tails than the underlying unobservable process. The asymptotic justification however depends on the specific class of models assumed for the underlying unobservable process. We show by means of a simulation study that the asymptotic robustness of the Hill estimator is clearly manifested in finite samples. We further illustrate this robustness by a numerical study of the interarrival times of anomalies in a backbone internet network, the Internet2 in the United States; the anomalies arrival times are computed with a roundoff error.
Approaches to developing judicious uses of veterinary antibacterial drugs
Authors: Miller Ron A. , Salmon Paulette , Sharkey Michele
Published: November 2019

Development of new veterinary antibacterials is an important and challenging endeavor. Global recognition of antimicrobial resistance as a threat across human, animal, plant, food, and environmental sectors has increased the level of scrutiny on veterinary antibacterial use. Rigorous scientific evaluation of these products has and continues to be the underpinning of effectiveness evaluations and how hazards are identified, characterized, and ultimately used to make evidence‐based and risk‐based safety decisions. Some scientific factors commonly considered in the development of veterinary antibacterials include the pathogenesis and sequelae of the indicated disease, clinical and bacteriological improvement, dosage regimen (dose amount, route, duration, frequency), and antimicrobial‐resistance qualitative risk assessments. Key discussion areas covered are how culture and susceptibility testing help determine if antibacterial effects are primarily responsible for clinical improvement and how pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data can help predict success, aid in defining an adequate dosage regimen, and help minimize resistance emergence and spread.
Factive theory of mind
Authors: Phillips Jonathan , Norby Aaron
Published: November 2019

Research on theory of mind has primarily focused on demonstrating and understanding the ability to represent others' non‐factive mental states, for example, others' beliefs in the false‐belief task. This requirement confuses the ability to represent a particular kind of non‐factive content (e.g., a false belief) with the more general capacity to represent others' understanding of the world even when it differs from one's own. We provide a way of correcting this. We first offer a simple and theoretically motivated account on whichtrackinganother agent's understanding of the world and keeping that representationseparatefrom one's own are the essential features of a capacity for theory of mind. We then show how these criteria can be operationalized in a new experimental paradigm: the “diverse‐knowledge task.”
Intracranial thrombosed anastomosing hemangioma: Case report
Authors: Bodman Alexa , Goodman Abigail , Olson Jeffrey J.
Published: December 2019

An anastomosing hemangioma is a relatively new diagnosis of a benign vascular lesion that is typically found in the genitourinary tract. On imaging, anastomosing hemangiomas have a broad differential diagnosis and can resemble malignant lesions such as angiosarcoma. Here we present a case of a 33‐year‐old male with seizures who on imaging was found to have a presumed recurrent intracranial meningioma. After surgical resection of his lesion, this case was pathologically diagnosed as having anastomosing hemangioma. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a case of a thrombosed anastomosing hemangioma located at intracranial and intradural region.
Neonate gut colonization: The rise of a social brain
Authors: Karaivazoglou Katerina , Konstantakis Christos , Assimakopoulos Stelios F. , Triantos Christos
Published: December 2019

Background

The human gut microbiota constitutes an integral part of human physiology, playing an important role in maintaining health, and compositional or functional changes in intestinal microbiota may be associated with the emergence of several chronic diseases. Animal and human studies have shown that there is a dynamic cross‐talk between intestinal microorganisms and brain networks which has an impact on neurodevelopment and may be extremely critical in shaping human social behavior.

Purpose

The aim of the current review is to appraise and present in a concise manner all findings linking the evolution of neonate and infant gut colonization with early social development and to formulate scientifically informed hypotheses which could guide future research on this field.
Soil fungal assemblage complexity is dependent on soil fertility and dominated by deterministic processes
Authors: Guo Junjie , Ling Ning , Chen Zhaojie , Xue Chao , Li Ling , Liu Lisheng , Gao Limin , Wang Min , Ruan Jianyun , Guo Shiwei , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe , Shen Qirong
Published: November 2019

In the processes controlling ecosystem fertility, fungi are increasingly acknowledged as key drivers. However, our understanding of the rules behind fungal community assembly regarding the effect of soil fertility level remains limited.

Using soil samples from typical tea plantations spanning c. 2167 km north‐east to south‐west across China, we investigated the assemblage complexity and assembly processes of 140 fungal communities along a soil fertility gradient.

The community dissimilarities of total fungi and fungal functional guilds increased with increasing soil fertility index dissimilarity. The symbiotrophs were more sensitive to variations in soil fertility compared with pathotrophs and saprotrophs. Fungal networks were larger and showed higher connectivity as well as greater potential for inter‐module connection in more fertile soils. Environmental factors had a slightly greater influence on fungal community composition than spatial factors. Species abundance fitted the Zipf–Mandelbrot distribution (niche‐based mechanisms), which provided evidence for deterministic‐based processes.

Overall, the soil fungal communities in tea plantations responded in a deterministic manner to soil fertility, with high fertility correlated with complex fungal community assemblages. This study provides new insights that might contribute to predictions of fungal community complexity.
Measuring digital platform‐mediated workers
Authors: O'Farrell Rory , Montagnier Pierre
Published: November 2019

The role of digital platform workers, whether they are delivering fastfood or working remotely categorising photographs, has received much attention both in the media and among policymakers. However, there is a lack of comparable and consistent statistics, over time and across countries, on the number of platform workers, their characteristics and their types of jobs and tasks. This review article examines the attempts that have been made to measure the number of digital platform workers, including both traditional surveys and uses of big data, and it highlights the difficulties encountered and offers guidance on future attempts to estimate the number of digital platform workers.
White adipose tissue mitochondrial metabolism in health and in obesity
Authors: Heinonen Sini , Jokinen Riikka , Rissanen Aila , Pietiläinen Kirsi H.
Published: November 2019

White adipose tissue is one of the largest organs of the body. It plays a key role in whole‐body energy status and metabolism; it not only stores excess energy but also secretes various hormones and metabolites to regulate body energy balance. Healthy adipose tissue capable of expanding is needed for metabolic well‐being and to prevent accumulation of triglycerides to other organs. Mitochondria govern several important functions in the adipose tissue. We review the derangements of mitochondrial function in white adipose tissue in the obese state. Downregulation of mitochondrial function or biogenesis in the white adipose tissue is a central driver for obesity‐associated metabolic diseases. Mitochondrial functions compromised in obesity include oxidative functions and renewal and enlargement of the adipose tissue through recruitment and differentiation of adipocyte progenitor cells. These changes adversely affect whole‐body metabolic health. Dysfunction of the white adipose tissue mitochondria in obesity has long‐term consequences for the metabolism of adipose tissue and the whole body. Understanding the pathways behind mitochondrial dysfunction may help reveal targets for pharmacological or nutritional interventions that enhance mitochondrial biogenesis or function in adipose tissue.
Climate and host genotype jointly shape tree phenology, disease levels and insect attacks
Authors: Faticov Maria , Ekholm Adam , Roslin Tomas , Tack Ayco J. M.
Published: November 2019

One of the best known ecological consequences of climate change is the advancement of spring phenology. Yet, we lack insights into how changes in climate interact with intraspecific genetic variation in shaping spring and autumn phenology, and how such changes in phenology will translate into seasonal dynamics of tree‐associated organisms. To elucidate the impact of warming and tree genotype on spring and autumn phenology, as well as the consequences for the population dynamics of a fungal pathogen Erysiphe alphitoides and plant‐feeding insect Tuberculatus annulatus, we conducted an active field heating experiment using grafts of five oak genotypes Quercus robur. We found that experimental warming generally advanced oak bud burst in spring and delayed leaf senescence in autumn, while additional variation was explained by tree genotype and warming‐by‐genotype interactions. Warming or tree genotype did not affect disease levels at the beginning of the season, but shaped both disease levels and aphid density during the latter part of the season. Overall, our findings demonstrate that elevated temperature and genetic variation affect spring and autumn phenology, as well as the seasonal dynamics of higher trophic levels. Such effects may be either direct (i.e. temperature affecting tree phenology and attack independently) or indirect (as due to climate‐induced changes in plant traits or the synchrony between trees and their attackers). To achieve a predictive understanding of the ecological responses and potential evolutionary changes of natural food webs in response to climate warming, we should merge the frameworks of global warming and community genetics.
Species richness influences the spatial distribution of trees in European forests
Authors: Bastias Cristina C. , Truchado Daniel A. , Valladares Fernando , Benavides Raquel , Bouriaud Olivier , Bruelheide Helge , Coppi Andrea , Finér Leena , Gimeno Teresa E. , Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael , Selvi Federico , De la Cruz Marcelino
Published: November 2019

The functioning of plant communities is strongly influenced by the number of species in the community and their spatial arrangement. This is because plants interact with their nearest neighbors and this interaction is expected to be stronger when the interacting individuals are ecologically similar in terms of resource use. Recent evidence shows that species richness alters the balance of intra‐ versus interspecific competition, but the effect of species richness, and phylogenetic and functional diversity on the spatial pattern of the plant communities remain less studied. Even far, how forest stand structure derived from past management practices can influence the relationship between species richness and spatial pattern is still unknown. Here, we evaluate the spatial distribution of woody individuals (DBH >7.5 cm) in 209 forest stands (i.e. plots) with an increasing level of species richness (from 1 up to 10 species) in six forest types along a latitudinal gradient in Europe. We used completely mapped plots to investigate the spatial pattern in each forest stand with point pattern techniques. We fitted linear models to analyze the effect of species richness (positively correlated with phylogenetic diversity) and functional diversity on tree spatial arrangements. We also controled this relationship by forest type and stand structure as a proxy of the management legacy. Our results showed a generalized positive effect of species richness and functional diversity on the degree of spatial clustering of trees, and on the spatial independence of tree sizes regardless of the forest type. Moreover, current tree spatial arrangements were still conditioned by its history of management; however its effect was independent of the number of species in the community. Our study showed that species richness and functional diversity are relevant attributes of forests influencing the spatial pattern of plant communities, and consequently forest functioning.
Cyanobacteria inoculation as a potential tool for stabilization of burned soils
Authors: Chamizo Sonia , Adessi Alessandra , Certini Giacomo , De Philippis Roberto
Published: November 2019

The practice of “cyanobacterization” (soil inoculation with cyanobacteria) has been shown to be effective in increasing soil fertility and physical stability in natural and agricultural soils, but little is known about its utility for the recovery of burned soils. To partly fill this knowledge gap, we inoculated two cyanobacterial species, Phormidium ambiguum and Scytonema javanicum, in two burned sterilized soils having contrasting properties, and incubated them under laboratory conditions for 45 days. The development of a cyanobacterial biocrust induced by the inoculum was evident and confirmed by the significant increase in chlorophyll a content compared to control soils. Hydrophobicity, surface penetration resistance, and exopolysaccharide content of the two soils were also evaluated. Cyanobacteria inoculation significantly decreased soil hydrophobicity, as assessed by the lower repellency index 15 days after the inoculation compared to the control soils. A significant increase in penetration resistance was recorded in the inoculated samples compared to control ones after 45 days of soil incubation. The effect of cyanobacteria inoculation depended on the characteristics of the burned soil, being more marked in the soil finer in texture, richer in organic carbon and nitrogen, and with lower initial soil hydrophobicity. In conclusion, this study points to the potential of cyanobacterization for the stabilization and recovery of soils in burned areas, which is one of the major concerns in postfire management to avoid net soil loss and major hydrogeological issues.
A Multiple Streams Analysis of Institutional Innovation in Forest Watershed Governance
Authors: Huber‐Stearns Heidi R. , Schultz Courtney , Cheng Antony S.
Published: November 2019

Increasingly severe wildfires have focused attention on forested watershed vulnerabilities, causing significant changes to policies and governance. We utilized the Multiple Streams Approach (MSA) to understand institutional innovations of federal agency–large water provider partnerships in Colorado to protect watersheds through joint planning and funding. Ambiguous problem definition and focusing events were significant aspects of these partnerships. We interviewed individuals in the partnerships, with MSA ideas of how solutions to policy problems develop, and the role of policy entrepreneurs. We found that wildfires served as focusing events, creating space and time for learning, collaboration and new problem framing, increased political attention, and institutional innovation. In this study, windows of opportunity stayed open longer, policy entrepreneurs and agencies played larger roles in communication and coupling streams and the context of fast‐moving, unpredictable ecological crises changed responses to issues. Our findings also have implications for broader policy studies and environmental governance scholarship.