bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of wound microbes in epidermolysis bullosa: Results from the epidermolysis bullosa clinical characterization and outcomes database
Authors: Levin Laura E. , Shayegan Leila H. , Lucky Anne W. , Hook Kristen P. , Bruckner Anna L. , Feinstein James A. , Whittier Susan , Lauren Christine T. , Pope Elena , Lara‐Corrales Irene , Wiss Karen , McCuaig Catherine C. , Powell Julie , Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Levy Moise L. , Diaz Lucia , Glick Sharon A. , Paller Amy S. , Price Harper N. , Browning John C. , Morel Kimberly D.
Published: November 2020

Background/Objectives

Patients with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) require care of wounds that are colonized or infected with bacteria. A subset of EB patients are at risk for squamous cell carcinoma, and bacterial‐host interactions have been considered in this risk. The EB Clinical Characterization and Outcomes Database serves as a repository of information from EB patients at multiple centers in the United States and Canada. Access to this resource enabled broad‐scale analysis of wound cultures.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 739 wound cultures from 158 patients from 13 centers between 2001 and 2018.

Results

Of 152 patients with a positive culture, Staphylococcus aureus (SA) was recovered from 131 patients (86%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) from 56 (37%), and Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) from 34 (22%). Sixty‐eight percent of patients had cultures positive for methicillin‐sensitive SA, and 47%, methicillin‐resistant SA (18 patients had cultures that grew both methicillin‐susceptible and methicillin‐resistant SA at different points in time). Of 15 patients with SA‐positive cultures with recorded mupirocin susceptibility testing, 11 had mupirocin‐susceptible SA and 6 patients mupirocin‐resistant SA (2 patients grew both mupirocin‐susceptible and mupirocin‐resistant SA). SCC was reported in 23 patients in the entire database, of whom 10 had documented wound cultures positive for SA, PA, and Proteus species in 90%, 50%, and 20% of cases, respectively.

Conclusions

SA and PA were the most commonly isolated bacteria from wounds. Methicillin resistance and mupirocin resistance were reported in 47% and 40% of patients tested, respectively, highlighting the importance of ongoing antimicrobial strategies to limit antibiotic resistance.
US Prescription trends of antihistamines for atopic dermatitis, 2011‐2016
Authors: Garg Swati , Zhao Jeffrey , Tegtmeyer Kyle , Shah Parth , Lio Peter A.
Published: November 2020

Antihistamine use for primary treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) is not recommended, but current guidelines state that sedating antihistamines are favored over non‐sedating antihistamines for relief of burdensome pruritus. We analyzed the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data to compare use of antihistamines between dermatologists and non‐dermatologists. Overall, dermatologists are more likely to prescribe sedating than non‐sedating antihistamines when compared to non‐dermatologists (P < .001, δabs = 0.45). Patients under 21 years old (P = .03, δabs = 0.10) and Black patients (P < .001, δabs = 0.19) were also more likely to receive sedating antihistamines than non‐sedating antihistamines. These findings highlight the differential prescribing practices for atopic dermatitis among physicians.
Erythema multiforme‐like eruption associated with plant‐induced allergic contact dermatitis in a pediatric patient: A case report
Authors: Cattelan Leila , Zargham Hanieh , Sasseville Denis , Maedler Kron Chelsea , Jafarian Fatemeh
Published: November 2020

An 11‐year‐old boy presented to the emergency department 5 days after playing in the forest. His initial eruption, consistent with allergic contact dermatitis to poison ivy, progressed into target lesions involving his extremities, palms, upper trunk, and face, consistent with an erythema multiforme‐like eruption. This report details the case and reviews the literature concerning this atypical and potentially underreported complication of plant‐induced allergic contact dermatitis.
Carpet beetle dermatitis mimicking bullous impetigo
Authors: Gumina Megan E. , Yan Albert C.
Published: November 2020

A 13‐year‐old female patient presented with a 3‐month history of recurrent blisters, which ruptured into multiple superficial erosions with overlying crust located on the face, neck, and shoulder. Treatment for presumed bullous impetigo showed no benefit. Samples collected from the patient's home revealed the presence of numerous carpet beetles in a wool rug. Carpet beetle dermatitis resembles papular urticaria but may occasionally present as skin lesions resembling bullous impetigo.
Clinical features of recurrent Mycoplasma pneumoniae–induced rash and mucositis
Authors: Liakos William , Xu Amy , Finelt Nika
Published: November 2020

Background/Objectives

The characteristics of patients experiencing recurrent Mycoplasma pneumoniae–induced rash and mucositis (MIRM) are not well understood. We aimed to characterize patients with recurrent disease by comparing the demographics, skin and mucosal involvement, seasonality, and treatment to those with single episodes (isolated MIRM).

Methods

This retrospective case series screened all patients seen by our dermatology inpatient consult service from September 2014 to March 2020. Cases were selected based on laboratory and clinical criteria that confirmed a diagnosis of MIRM.

Results

We identified 13 patients with MIRM: 5 who experienced recurrence (38%) and 8 with isolated, single episodes without recurrence. Mean age was 13.6 years for initial episodes in the recurrent patients compared to 11.7 in patients with isolated episodes. All 5 recurrent MIRM patients were male (compared with 75% of isolated MIRM patients) and predominantly Black (60%, compared with 25%). Most episodes overall (isolated and recurrent) occurred from the months of October to February. Recurrences after initial MIRM episode had less severe skin and mucosal findings, often involving only one mucous membrane, less frequent need for hospital admission, and shorter duration of hospital stay. Prophylactic treatments and treatments beyond supportive care were of unclear value.

Conclusions

Some characteristics of MIRM differ between patients with recurrent and isolated disease. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for recurrence, which occurred in 38% of our cohort. Although recurrences after initial MIRM episode tended to be less severe, there is still potential for prolonged hospitalizations with recurrent episodes. More evidence is needed regarding effective preventive and treatment regimens in patients with recurrent MIRM.
Occlusive treatment enhances efficacy of tacrolimus 0.1% in a pediatric patient with severe alopecia areata: Case report and literature review
Authors: Bimbi César , Kyriakou Georgia , Wollina Uwe
Published: November 2020

Tacrolimus is an immunomodulatory drug, available for topical and systemic treatment of several dermopathies that are characterized by immune dysregulation. In the case of alopecia areata, standard application has proven insufficient to yield satisfactory results. Herein, we present a 6‐year‐old patient with Down syndrome who was treated with topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment under occlusion overnight with remarkable clinical improvement within 4 months.
Clinical features of very‐low‐birthweight infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Tomotaki Hiroko , Toyoshima Katsuaki , Tomotaki Seiichi , Shimokaze Tomoyuki , Kim Ki‐Sung , Kawataki Motoyoshi
Published: November 2020

Background

Few studies have investigated the developmental prognosis of very‐low‐birthweight (VLBW) infants with congenital heart diseases (CHDs). This study aimed to determine the mortality and morbidity, including the developmental prognosis, of VLBW infants with CHD.

Methods

This single‐center, retrospective cohort study included VLBW infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit from January 2006 to December 2011. Perinatal records were reviewed for CHD diagnosis, treatment details, comorbidities, mortality, and long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes. The characteristics and neurological developmental quotients at around the age of 3 years were compared among the following three groups of VLBW infants with CHDs: biventricular circulation without intervention (without surgery), biventricular circulation with intervention (catheter intervention or one‐stage surgery), and single‐ventricular circulation (Fontan‐type multiple‐stage surgery).

Results

Among a total of 449 VLBW infants admitted during this period, 45 (10.0%) infants had CHDs, including 25 infants with congenital abnormalities (chromosomal abnormalities and/or multiple anomalies). All 13 infants who died before discharge had congenital abnormalities. The incidence rates of comorbidities were not higher in VLBW infants with CHDs than in those without CHDs. The developmental quotients of the no‐surgery, catheter intervention or one‐stage surgery, and Fontan‐type multiple‐stage surgery groups were 87.2 ± 10.9, 91.3 ± 4.7, and 63.7 ± 8.6, respectively.

Conclusions

The neurological development at around the age of 3 years in VLBW infants with biventricular circulation was in the borderline‐to‐normal range; however, that in infants with single‐ventricular circulation was poor. Further studies are needed to comprehend the neurological development of VLBW infants with CHDs better.
Beneficial effects of Strongyloides venezuelensis antigen extract in acute experimental toxoplasmosis
Authors: Cristina Borges Araujo Ester , Cariaco Yusmaris , Paulo Oliveira Almeida Marcos , Patricia Pallete Briceño Marisol , Neto de Sousa José Eduardo , Rezende Lima Wânia , Maria Costa‐Cruz Julia , Maria Silva Neide
Published: November 2020

Background

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan with worldwide distribution and triggers a strong Th1 immune response in infected susceptible hosts. On the contrary, most helminth infections are characterized by Th2 immune response and the use of helminth‐derived antigens to regulate immune response in inflammatory disorders has been broadly investigated.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether treatment with Strongyloides venezuelensis antigen extract (SvAg) would alter immune response against T gondii.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were orally infected with T gondii and treated with SvAg, and parasitological, histological and immunological parameters were investigated.

Results

It was observed that SvAg treatment improved survival rates of T gondii‐infected mice. At day 7 post‐infection, the parasite load was lower in the lung and small intestine of infected SvAg‐treated mice than untreated infected mice. Remarkably, SvAg‐treated mice infected with T gondii presented reduced inflammatory lesions in the small intestine than infected untreated mice and decreased intestinal and systemic levels of IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and IL‐6. In contrast, SvAg treatment increased T gondii‐specific IgA serum levels in infected mice.

Conclusions

S venezuelensis antigen extract has anti‐parasitic and anti‐inflammatory properties during T gondii infection suggesting as a possible alternative to parasite and inflammation control.
Unraveling the roles of brassinosteroids in alleviating drought stress in young Eucalyptus urophylla plants: Implications on redox homeostasis and photosynthetic apparatus
Authors: Barros Junior Udson O. , Lima Michael D. R. , Alsahli Abdulaziz A. , Lobato Allan K. S.
Published: November 2020

Water deficit is the most limiting abiotic stress to plants because it affects several physiological and biochemical processes. Brassinosteroids, including 24‐epibrassinolide (EBR), are steroids that regulate growth and positively act on gas exchange. This research aims to determine whether EBR can attenuate the negative effects of water deficit, revealing possible contributions of this steroid on photosynthetic machinery of young Eucalyptus urophylla plants under water deficit. The experiment had a completely randomized factorial design with two water conditions (control and water deficit) and three levels of EBR (0, 50, and 100 nM EBR). Water deficit caused a decrease in the levels of total chlorophyll and carotenoids, but these photosynthetic pigments increased by 135 and 226%, respectively, in plants sprayed with EBR when compared to the water deficit + 0 nM EBR treatment. Regarding the antioxidant system, 100 nM EBR induced significant increments in superoxide dismutase (42%), catalase (52%), ascorbate peroxidase (147%), and peroxidase (204%). Steroid application in E. urophylla plants exposed to water deficit increased the effective quantum yield of the photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry and electron transport rate. However, interestingly, it decreased the nonphotochemical quenching and relative energy excess at the PSII level, indicating improvements related to PSII efficiency. This research revealed that application of 100 nM EBR attenuated the negative effects caused by water deficit, being explained by the positive repercussions on antioxidant enzyme activities, chloroplastic pigments, PSII efficiency, electron flux, and net photosynthetic rate.
Ecotopic over‐expression of PoCHS from Paeonia ostii altered the fatty acids composition and content in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Peng Li‐Ping , Hao Qing , Men Si‐Qi , Wang Xi‐Ruo , Huang Wen‐Yuan , Tong Ning‐Ning , Chen Mo , Liu Zheng‐An , Ma Xiao‐Feng , Shu Qing‐Yan
Published: November 2020

Chalcone synthase (CHS) is the key enzyme in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and has been studied in many plants, but the function of the CHS gene has not been well characterized in Paeonia ostii. In this study, we obtained a CHS homolog gene from P. ostii, which possessed the putative conserved amino acids of chalcone synthase by multiple alignment analysis and demonstrated the highest expression in developing seeds. In vitro assays of the recombinant PoCHS protein confirmed enzymatic activity using malonyl‐CoA and 4‐coumaroyl‐CoA as substrates, and the optimal pH and reaction temperature were 7.5 and 40 °C, respectively. Furthermore, ectopic over‐expression of PoCHS in Arabidopsis up‐regulated the expression levels of genes involved in seed development (ABI), glycolysis (PKp2, PDH‐E1a, and SUS2/3), and especially fatty acid biosynthesis (BCCP2, CAC2, CDS2, FatA, and FAD3). This resulted in an increased unsaturated fatty acid content, especially α‐linolenic acid, in transgenic Arabidopsis seeds. In this study, we examined the functions of CHS homolog of P. ostii and demonstrated its new function in seed fatty acid biosynthesis.
Chitosan nanoparticles enhance developmental competence of in vitro‐matured porcine oocytes
Authors: Roy Pantu Kumar , Qamar Ahmad Yar , Fang Xun , Kim Ghangyong , Bang Seonggyu , De Zoysa Mahanama , Shin Sang Tae , Cho Jongki
Published: November 2020

Oxidative stress is inevitable as it is derived from the handling, culturing, inherent metabolic activities and medium supplementation of embryos. This study was performed to investigate the protective effect of chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) on oxidative damage in porcine oocytes. For this purpose, cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) derived from porcine slaughterhouse ovaries were exposed to different concentrations of CNPs (0, 10, 25 and 50 µg/ml) during in vitro maturation (IVM). Oocytes treated with 25 µg/ml CNPs showed significantly higher levels of GSH, along with a significant reduction in ROS levels compared to control, CNPs10 and CNPs50 groups. In parthenogenetic embryo production, the maturation rate was significantly higher in the CNPs25 group than that in the control and all other treated groups. In addition, when compared to the CNPs50 and control groups, CNPs25‐treated oocytes showed significantly higher cleavage and blastocyst development rates. The highest concentration of CNPs reduced the total cell number and ratio of ICM: TE cells in parthenogenetic embryos, suggesting that there is a threshold where benefits are lost if exceeded. In cloned embryos, the CNPs25 group, as compared to all other treated groups, showed significantly higher maturation and cleavage rates. Furthermore, the blastocyst development rate in the CNPs25‐treated group was significantly higher than that in the CNPs50‐treated group, as was the total cell number. Moreover, we found that cloned embryos derived from the CNPs25‐treated group showed significantly higher expression levels of Pou5f1, Dppa2, and Ndp52il genes, compared with those of the control and other treated groups. Our results demonstrated that 25 µg/ml CNPs treatment during IVM improves the developmental competence of porcine oocytes by reducing oxidative stress.
Will genetic test results be monetized in life insurance?
Authors: Haçarız Oytun , Kleinow Torsten , Macdonald Angus S. , Tapadar Pradip , Thomas R. Guy
Published: November 2020

If life insurers are not permitted to use genetic test results in underwriting, they may face adverse selection. It is sometimes claimed that applicants will choose abnormally high sums insured as a form of financial gamble, possibly financed by life settlement companies (LSCs). The latter possibility is given some credence by the recent experience of “stranger‐originated life insurance” (STOLI) in the United States. We examine these claims, and find them unconvincing for four reasons. First, apparently high mortality implies surprisingly high probabilities of surviving for decades, so the gamble faces long odds. Second, LSCs would have to adopt a different business model, involving much longer time horizons. Third, STOLI is being effectively dealt with by the U.S. courts. Fourth, the gamble would be predicated upon a deep understanding of the genetic epidemiology, which is evolving, subject to uncertain biases, and cannot predict the emergence of effective treatments.
Interleukin 4 deficiency limits the development of a lupus‐like disease in mice triggered by phospholipids in a non‐bilayer arrangement
Authors: Reséndiz‐Mora Albany , Wong‐Baeza Carlos , Nevárez‐Lechuga Irene , Landa‐Saldívar Carla , Molina‐Gómez Eréndira , Hernández‐Pando Rogelio , Wong‐Baeza Isabel , Escobar‐Gutiérrez Alejandro , Baeza Isabel
Published: November 2020

Non‐bilayer phospholipids arrangements (NPAs) are transient molecular associations different from lipid bilayers. When they become stable, they can trigger a disease in mice resembling human lupus, which is mainly characterized by the production of anti‐NPA IgG antibodies. NPAs are stabilized on liposomes or cell bilayers by the drugs procainamide or chlorpromazine, which produce drug‐induced lupus in humans. Here, we evaluated the participation of the TH2 response, through its hallmark cytokine IL‐4, on the development of the lupus‐like disease in mice. Wild‐type or IL‐4 knockout BALB/c mice received liposomes bearing drug‐induced NPAs, the drugs alone, or an anti‐NPA monoclonal antibody (H308) to induce the lupus‐like disease (the last two procedures stabilize NPAs on mice cells). IL‐4 KO mice showed minor disease manifestations, compared to wild‐type mice, with decreased production of anti‐NPA IgG antibodies, no anti‐cardiolipin, anti‐histones and anticoagulant antibodies, and no kidney or skin lesions. In these mice, H308 was the only inducer of anti‐NPA IgG antibodies. These findings indicate that IL‐4 has a central role in the development of the murine lupus‐like disease induced by NPA stabilization.
The Normative Agency of Regional Organizations and Non‐governmental Organizations in International Peace Mediation*
Authors: Pring Jamie , Palmiano Federer Julia
Published: November 2020

This article analyzes the increasingly prominent role of regional organizations (ROs) and non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) in promoting norms in mediation processes. In particular, we seek to understand the processes by which RO and NGO mediators promote the inclusivity norm to negotiating parties and the outcomes that result. We employ the concepts of local agency and social practices in examining the normative agency of ROs and NGOs in promoting and redefining the inclusivity norm. Through illustrative case studies of peace processes in South Sudan and Myanmar, we argue that ROs’ and NGOs’ mediation practices reflect their claims to alternative resources of power, such as long‐standing expertise and insider status in the context, and build congruence with strong local norms. We provide nuanced theoretical insights on RO and NGO mediators’ claims to agency and provide empirical illustrations on how these claims contribute to constitutive changes to norms.
From Asylum to Post‐Arrival Geographies: Syrian and Iraqi Refugees in Belgium
Authors: El Moussawi Hala , Schuermans Nick
Published: November 2020

This paper investigates the spatial patterns of concentration and dispersal of recently arrived refugees from Syria and Iraq in a country without stringent dispersal policies, Belgium. In order to capture both the mobility and the immobility of refugees, we propose the term “post‐arrival geographies” for these patterns. Drawing on data from the national population register, we demonstrate that many refugees move to urban and suburban locations after they have been granted refugee status. Through a comparison with the geographies of the Belgian asylum system and with the spatial distribution of Syrians and Iraqis who arrived earlier, we also explore some explanatory hypotheses for these post‐arrival geographies. The observation that dispersal takes place in Belgium in an indirect way ‐ through the location of asylum centres and local reception structures – makes us endorse pleas for more attention to institutional contexts and local settings in refugee studies.
Cerebral abscess and calvarial osteomyelitis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei in a renal transplant recipient
Authors: Muthina Raja Amarendra , Koppara Naveen Kumar , Bethasaida Manuel Maria , Bommu Alekhya Naga , Anapalli Sunnesh Reddy , Boju Sangeetha Lakshmi , Rapur Ram , Vishnubotla Siva Kumar
Published: November 2020

Melioidosis is an infection of humans caused by the saprophytic bacterium Burkholderia (previously Pseudomonas) pseudomallei. We present a patient of cerebral abscess and calvarial osteomyelitis caused by B. pseudomallei in a renal transplant recipient. We treated the patient with ceftazidime for 3 weeks, followed by trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMX) for 6 months. The superficial abscess reduced in size at the end of first month and subsided gradually. A repeat MRI showed reduction in intracranial abscess. The patient had no neurological deficit.
Hepatitis B infection and risk factors among pregnant women and their male partners in the Baby Shower Programme in Nigeria: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Talla Carol , Itanyi Ijeoma Uchenna , Tsuyuki Kiyomi , Stadnick Nicole , Ogidi Amaka Grace , Olakunde Babayemi Oluwaseun , Patel Dina , Oko John Okpanachi , Aarons Gregory , Onoka Chima Ariel , Ezeanolue Echezona Edozie
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To determine the population prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B (Hep B) status, and status discordance, among pregnant women and their male partners in Nigeria.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study assessing the seroprevalence of Hep B virus in a cohort of 16 920 pregnant women and their male partners in northcentral Nigeria. Rapid HBsAg antibody test was used for Hep B diagnosis. Demographic, socio‐economic and behavioural information was collected through interviewer‐administered questionnaires and evaluated as determinants of Hep B status and couple status discordance using logistic regression.

Results

Of 16 920 participants who had a Hep B test result, 6750 couples and 1316 discordant couples were identified. The prevalence of Hep B among all participants was 10.9%, with lower prevalence among pregnant women (10.2%) than their male partners (11.9%), P < 0.001. The prevalence of Hep B sero‐discordance among couples was 19.5% (1316/6750). Younger age, prior Hep B testing and a prior positive Hep B test increased the odds of Hep B infection while being a woman decreased the odds of Hep B among all participants, and among couples. Furthermore, polygamy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19–1.87), prior Hep B testing (AOR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.14–4.97) and a prior positive Hep B test result were significant determinants of status discordance among the participating couples.

Conclusion

The prevalence of Hep B among pregnant women and their male partners in northcentral Nigeria is high. A large‐scale intervention is required to reduce Hep B prevalence in this setting.
Antioxidant prevents clearance of hemostatically competent platelets after long‐term cold storage
Authors: Hegde Shailaja , Wellendorf Ashley M. , Zheng Yi , Cancelas Jose A.
Published: November 2020

Background

Cold storage of platelets (PLTs) has the potential advantage of prolonging storage time while reducing posttransfusion infection given the decreased likelihood of bacterial outgrowth during storage and possibly beneficial effects in treating bleeding patients. However, cold storage reduces PLT survival through the induction of complex storage lesions, which are more accentuated when storage is prolonged.

Study Design and Methods

Whole blood–derived PLT‐rich plasma concentrates from seven PLT pools (n = 5 donors per pool). PLT additive solution was added (67%/33% plasma) and the product was split into 50‐mL bags. Split units were stored in the presence or absence of 1 mM of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) under agitation for up to 14 days at room temperature or in the cold and were analyzed for PLT activation, fibrinogen‐dependent spreading, microparticle formation, mitochondrial respiratory activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, as well as in vivo survival and bleeding time correction in immunodeficient mice.

Results

Cold storage of PLTs for 7 days or longer induces significant PLT activation, cytoskeletal damage, impaired fibrinogen spreading, enhances mitochondrial metabolic decoupling and ROS generation, and increases macrophage‐dependent phagocytosis and macrophage‐independent clearance. Addition of NAC prevents PLT clearance and allows a correction of the prolonged bleeding time in thrombocytopenic, aspirin‐treated, immunodeficient mice.

Conclusions

Long‐term cold storage induces mitochondrial uncoupling and increased proton leak and ROS generation. The resulting ROS is a crucial contributor to the increased macrophage‐dependent and ‐independent clearance of functional PLTs and can be prevented by the antioxidant NAC in a magnesium‐containing additive solution.
Peripheral blood cell ratios as prognostic factors in canine diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma treated withCHOPprotocol
Authors: Henriques Joaquim , Felisberto Ricardo , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Cabeçadas José , Dobson Jane
Published: November 2020

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common haematopoietic tumour in dogs and recognized as clinical model for its human counterpart. Recently, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte (NLR) and lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte (LMR) ratios have been shown to predict time‐to‐progression (TTP) and lymphoma‐specific survival (LSS) in dogs with DLBCL treated with CHOP‐based chemotherapy. We retrospectively evaluated in 59 dogs diagnosed with DLBCL the prognostic value of haematological parameters and derived ratios: NLR, LMR, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte (PLR) and platelet‐to‐neutrophil (PNR) ratios for TTP, LSS and associated secondary end‐points (time‐to‐progression‐rate [TTPR] and lymphoma‐specific survival‐rate [LSSR]) as rates at 180 and 365 days. PNR is an independent prognostic marker (p ≤ .001) for TTPR/180 and 365 days, dogs with a PNR above 0.032 were more likely to progress before 180 days (sensitivity 46.5%, specificity 87.5%,p = .004). On univariate analysis, NLR showed a prognostic significance for LSSR/180 (p = .006) and LSSR/365 (p = .009). A baseline NLR value below 7.45 was positively associated with survival at 180 days (sensitivity 52%, specificity 85.3%,p = .025). The presence of substageb, was associated with early progression and decreased survival at 180 days (p = .031). Anaemia significantly reduced LSSR at 365 days (p = .028). This is the first study evaluating PLR and PNR in canine DLBCL and demonstrates that PNR could be a predictor of early lymphoma progression. Since peripheral blood cell composition can be affected by several non‐oncological causes, the development of larger multicenter studies with homogeneous inclusion criteria could help to better determine the true predictive values of blood cell ratios in dogs' DLBCL treated with CHOP chemotherapy.
Evidence‐Based Practice Competence in Nursing Students Preparing to Transition to Practice
Authors: Lam Christina K. , Schubert Carolyn F. , Herron Elizabeth K.
Published: November 2020

Background

Opportunities to embed and evaluate evidence‐based practice (EBP) competency in the clinical setting across nursing curricula are not well described in the literature.

Aims

This research aims to describe how clinical learning environments influence senior nursing students’ integration of EBP competencies in their practice and perceptions of EBP competence development in a traditional baccalaureate nursing program.

Methods

A sequential, mixed‐methods design was used with senior students upon completion of their last two clinical experiences in the nursing program. Students completed the EBP Work Environment Scale (Pryse, McDaniel, & Schafer, 2014) and semi‐structured interviews.

Findings

Students appraised EBP Work Environments positively during preceptor‐led experiences as opposed to instructor‐led, group clinical experiences. Students described the evolution of emerging EBP competence throughout their nursing education and emphasized the importance of coursework in intentionally developing EBP competence.

Linking Evidence to Action

Assessment of clinical experiences and models that contribute to EBP competence is needed. Participants in this study emphasized the importance of coursework that builds on EBP competencies, and the tremendous value of nurse preceptors that encouraged growth in their ability to engage with EBP in clinical practice.
Passive stiffness of fibrotic skeletal muscle in mdx mice relates to collagen architecture
Authors: Brashear Sarah E. , Wohlgemuth Ross P. , Gonzalez Gabriella , Smith Lucas R.
Published: November 2020

Key points

The amount of fibrotic material in dystrophic mouse muscles relates to contractile function, but not passive function.

Collagen fibres in skeletal muscle are associated with increased passive muscle stiffness in fibrotic muscles.

The alignment of collagen is independently associated with passive stiffness in dystrophic skeletal muscles.

These outcomes demonstrate that collagen architecture rather than collagen content should be a target of anti‐fibrotic therapies to treat muscle stiffness.

Fibrosis is prominent in many skeletal muscle pathologies including dystrophies, neurological disorders, cachexia, chronic kidney disease, sarcopenia and metabolic disorders. Fibrosis in muscle is associated with decreased contractile forces and increased passive stiffness that limits joint mobility leading to contractures. However, the assumption that more fibrotic material is directly related to decreased function has not held true. Here we utilize novel measurement of extracellular matrix (ECM) and collagen architecture to relate ECM form to muscle function. We used mdx mice, a model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy that becomes fibrotic, and wildtype mice. In this model, extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle was significantly stiffer, but with similar total collagen, while the soleus muscle did not change stiffness, but increased collagen. The stiffness of the EDL was associated with increased collagen crosslinking as determined by collagen solubility. Measurement of ECM alignment using polarized light microscopy showed a robust relationship between stiffness and alignment for wildtype muscle that broke down in mdx muscles. Direct visualization of large collagen fibres with second harmonic generation imaging revealed their relative abundance in stiff muscles. Collagen fibre alignment was linked to stiffness across all muscles investigated and the most significant factor in a multiple linear regression‐based model of muscle stiffness from ECM parameters. This work establishes novel characteristics of skeletal muscle ECM architecture and provides evidence for a mechanical function of collagen fibres in muscle. This finding suggests that anti‐fibrotic strategies to enhance muscle function and excessive stiffness should target large collagen fibres and their alignment rather than total collagen.
Inspiratory Muscle Training on Glucose Control in Diabetes: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Pinto Mariana B. , Bock Patrícia M. , Schein Andressa S.O. , Portes Juliana , Monteiro Raíssa B. , Schaan Beatriz D.
Published: November 2020

This study evaluated the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in glucose control and respiratory muscle function in patients with diabetes. It was a randomized clinical trial conducted at the Physiopathology Laboratory of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. Patients with Type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to IMT or placebo-IMT (P-IMT), performed at 30% and 2% of maximal inspiratory pressure, respectively, every day for 12 weeks. The main outcome measures were HbA1c, glycemia, and respiratory muscle function. Thirty patients were included: 73.3% women, 59.6 ± 10.7 years old, HbA1c 8.7 ± 0.9% (71.6 ± 9.8 mmol/mol), and glycemia 181.8 ± 57.8 mg/dl (10.5 ± 3.2 mmol/L). At the end of the training, HbA1c was 8.2 ±0.3% (66.1 ± 3.3 mmol/mol) and 8.7 ± 0.3% (71.6 ± 3.3 mmol/mol) for the IMT and P-IMT groups, respectively (p = .8). Fasting glycemia decreased in both groups with no difference after training although it was lower in IMT at 8 weeks: 170.0 ± 11.4 mg/dl(9.4 ± 0.6 mmol/L) and 184.4 ± 15.0 mg/dl (10.2 ± 0.8 mmol/L) for IMT and P-IMT, respectively (p < .05). Respiratory endurance time improved in the IMT group (baseline = 325.9 ± 51.1 s and 305.0 ± 37.8 s; after 12 weeks = 441.1 ± 61.7 s and 250.7 ± 39.0 s for the IMT and P-IMT groups, respectively; p < .05). Considering that glucose control did not improve, IMT should not be used as an alternative to other types of exercise in diabetes. Higher exercise intensities or longer training periods might produce better results. The clinical trials identifier is NCT 03191435.
Development of a “Cooling” Menthol Energy Gel for Endurance Athletes: Effect of Menthol Concentration on Acceptability and Preferences
Authors: Stevens Christopher J. , Ross Megan L.R. , Vogel Roxanne M.
Published: November 2020

Menthol is effective at stimulating thermosensitive neurons that evoke pleasant cooling sensations. Internal application of menthol can be ergogenic for athletes, and hence, addition of menthol to sports nutrition products may be beneficial for athletes. The aim of this study was to develop a menthol energy gel for consumption during exercise and to determine acceptability and preferences for gels with different menthol concentrations. With a randomized, crossover, and double-blind placebo-controlled design, 40 endurance athletes (20 females) ingested an energy gel with a menthol additive at a high (0.5%; HIGH) or low concentration (0.1%; LOW), or a mint-flavored placebo (CON), on separate occasions during outdoor endurance training sessions. The athletes rated the gels for cooling sensation, mint flavor intensity, sweetness, and overall experience and provided feedback. Results are reported as median (interquartile range). Both menthol gels successfully delivered a cooling sensation, with a significantly greater response for HIGH (5.0 [4.0–5.0]) compared with LOW (3.5 [3.0–4.0]; p = .022) and CON (1.0 [1.0–2.0]; p < .0005), and LOW compared with CON (p < .0005). Ratings of mint flavor intensity followed the same trend as cooling sensation, while ratings of overall experience were significantly worse for HIGH (2.0 [1.0–3.0]) compared with LOW (4.0 [2.0–4.0]; p = .001) and CON (4.0 [3.0–4.0]; p < .0005). An energy gel with the addition of menthol at 0.1–0.5% provides a cooling sensation for athletes with a dose–response when ingested during exercise. The 0.1% concentration is recommended to maximize the overall experience of the gel.
The Effects of Online Motor Skill Assessment Training on Assessment Competence of Physical Educators
Authors: Wilson Wesley J. , Brian Ali , Kelly Luke E.
Published: November 2020

Novice teachers struggle with assessing fundamental motor skills. With growing time constraints, not to mention the current COVID-19 pandemic, professional development needs to be streamlined, asynchronous, and online to meet the needs of current teachers. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and efficacy of the Motor Skill Assessment Program (MSAP) in increasing the assessment competency of the underhand roll among physical educators and to examine which factors associated with posttest assessment scores. Twenty-nine physical educators (female = 21, male = 8) completed the program. Paired sample t tests were used to determine the efficacy of the program in improving assessment accuracy from pretest to posttest. Associations between posttest scores assessed which factors predicted success within the program addressing feasibility. Program completion resulted in significantly better posttest assessment scores among participants. Guided practice attempts and average scores on guided practice tests correlated most strongly and positively with posttest scores. The assessment training program increased the assessment competency of physical educators. Guided practice and using practice tests best predicted participant learning. Now that the MSAP results with teacher learning and is feasible, this efficacy trial should be scaled up to feature a control group and more skills.
Preservice Physical Education Teachers’ Perceptions of a Flipped Basketball Course: Benefits, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors: Koh Koon Teck , Li Chunxiao , Mukherjee Swarup
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Information and communication technologies can enable educators in the development of innovative and contextually relevant approaches for the provision of enhanced learning experiences. This study examined preservice physical education teachers’ perceptions of a flipped learning basketball course in a physical education teacher education program. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight preservice physical education teachers (three females; Mage = 23.5 years) who had completed the course. Interview data were coded using inductive and deductive thematic analysis. Results: Six main themes were identified reflecting benefits, challenges, and recommendations of flipped learning: (a) facilitate student-centered learning, (b) promote self-directed learning, (c) encourage real-world application, (d) insufficient avenues to assess understanding, (e) preclass preparation too time consuming, and (f) modification of materials and structure. Discussion/Conclusion: Flipped learning can potentially enhance preservice physical education teachers’ motivation for learning and increase active learning time in the sport-based courses in physical education teacher education. The identified challenges and recommendations are valuable for physical education teacher education educators to effectively prepare and execute flipped learning-based courses.
A 220,000-year-long continuous large earthquake record on a slow-slipping plate boundary
Authors: Lu Yin , Wetzler Nadav , Waldmann Nicolas , Agnon Amotz , Biasi Glenn P. , Marco Shmuel
Published: November 2020

A 220-ka-long
M
w
≥ 7.0 earthquake record reveals an unexpectedly high seismicity rate on a slow-slipping plate boundary.
Germline genomic patterns are associated with cancer risk, oncogenic pathways, and clinical outcomes
Authors: Xu Xue , Zhou Yuan , Feng Xiaowen , Li Xiong , Asad Mohammad , Li Derek , Liao Bo , Li Jianqiang , Cui Qinghua , Wang Edwin
Published: November 2020

Germline variants when organized as genomic patterns are associated with cancer risk, oncogenic pathways, and clinical outcomes.
A facile one-stage treatment of critical bone defects using a calcium sulfate/hydroxyapatite biomaterial providing spatiotemporal delivery of bone morphogenic protein–2 and zoledronic acid
Authors: Raina Deepak Bushan , Matuszewski Lucas-Maximilian , Vater Corina , Bolte Julia , Isaksson Hanna , Lidgren Lars , Tägil Magnus , Zwingenberger Stefan
Published: November 2020

Combining BMP-2 and zoledronic acid is a recipe for creating “synthetic autologous bone” to treat large bone defects.
PBRM1 and the glycosylphosphatidylinositol biosynthetic pathway promote tumor killing mediated by MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic lymphocytes
Authors: Menasche Bridget L. , Davis Eric M. , Wang Shifeng , Ouyang Yan , Li Suzhao , Yu Haijia , Shen Jingshi
Published: November 2020

This research uncovered regulators of tumor killing mediated by MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic lymphocytes.
CRISPR-mediated BMP9 ablation promotes liver steatosis via the down-regulation of PPARα expression
Authors: Yang Z. , Li P. , Shang Q. , Wang Y. , He J. , Ge S. , Jia R. , Fan X.
Published: November 2020

Hepatic cytokine BMP9 attenuates fatty liver by regulating the key lipid metabolism factor PPARα.
Genomic signatures in the coral holobiont reveal host adaptations driven by Holocene climate change and reef specific symbionts
Authors: Cooke Ira , Ying Hua , Forêt Sylvain , Bongaerts Pim , Strugnell Jan M. , Simakov Oleg , Zhang Jia , Field Matt A. , Rodriguez-Lanetty Mauricio , Bell Sara C. , Bourne David G. , van Oppen Madeleine JH , Ragan Mark A. , Miller David J.
Published: November 2020

Genomes of 150 coral colonies reveal evolutionary processes related to past climatic change on the Great Barrier Reef.
Visualization nanozyme based on tumor microenvironment “unlocking” for intensive combination therapy of breast cancer
Authors: Wang Zhiyi , Li Ziyuan , Sun Zhaoli , Wang Shuren , Ali Zeeshan , Zhu Sihao , Liu Sha , Ren Qiushi , Sheng Fugeng , Wang Baodui , Hou Yanglong
Published: November 2020

The combination between visualization nanozyme and tumor vascular normalization contributes to the therapy of breast cancer.
Artificial lake expansion amplifies mercury pollution from gold mining
Authors: Gerson Jacqueline R. , Topp Simon N. , Vega Claudia M. , Gardner John R. , Yang Xiao , Fernandez Luis E. , Bernhardt Emily S. , Pavelsky Tamlin M.
Published: November 2020

Artificial lake expansion and high mercury loading synergistically increase mercury contamination risk from gold mining.
Inactivation-mimicking block of the epithelial calcium channel TRPV6
Authors: Bhardwaj Rajesh , Lindinger Sonja , Neuberger Arthur , Nadezhdin Kirill D. , Singh Appu K. , Cunha Micael R. , Derler Isabella , Gyimesi Gergely , Reymond Jean-Louis , Hediger Matthias A. , Romanin Christoph , Sobolevsky Alexander I.
Published: November 2020

Small-molecule piperazine derivatives mimic inactivation by calmodulin to selectively and potently block TRPV6 channels.
Lightweight Image Encryption: A Chaotic ARX Block Cipher
Authors: Mohananthini N. , Mohamed Parvees M. Y. , Abdul Samath J.
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, lightweight cryptography attracts academicians, scientists and researchers to concentrate on its requisite with the increasing usage of low resource devices. In this paper, a new lightweight image encryption scheme is proposed using the Lorenz 3D super chaotic map. This encryption scheme is an addition–rotation–XOR block cipher designed for its supremacy, efficacy and speed execution. In this addition–rotation–XOR cipher, the equation for Lorenz 3D chaotic map is iteratively solved to generate double valued signals in a speedy manner using the Runge–Kutta and Euler methods. The addition, rotation and diffusion sequences are generated from the double valued signals, and the source pixels of the 8-bit plain test images are manipulated with the addition, rotation and diffusion of the bytes. Finally, the cipher images are constructed from the manipulated pixels and evaluated with various statistical as well as randomness tests. The results from various tests prove that the proposed chaotic addition–rotation–XOR block image cipher is efficient in terms of randomness and speed.
An Intellectual Methodology for Secure Health Record Mining and Risk Forecasting Using Clustering and Graph-Based Classification
Authors: Shiny Irene D. , Surya V. , Kavitha D. , Shankar R. , John Justin Thangaraj S.
Published: November 2020

The objective of the research work is to analyze and validate health records and securing the personal information of patients is a challenging issue in health records mining. The risk prediction task was formulated with the label Cause of Death (COD) as a multi-class classification issue, which views health-related death as the “biggest risk.” This unlabeled data particularly describes the health conditions of the participants during the health examinations. It can differ tremendously between healthy and highly ill. Besides, the problems of distributed secure data management over privacy-preserving are considered. The proposed health record mining is in the following stages. In the initial stage, effective features such as fisher score, Pearson correlation, and information gain is calculated from the health records of the patient. Then, the average values are calculated for the extracted features. In the second stage, feature selection is performed from the average features by applying the Euclidean distance measure. The chosen features are clustered in the third stage using distance adaptive fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm (DAFCM). In the fourth stage, an entropy-based graph is constructed for the classification of data and it categorizes the patient’s record. At the last stage, for security, privacy preservation is applied to the personal information of the patient. This performance is matched against the existing methods and it gives better performance than the existing ones.
On the evolution of compact binary black holes
Authors: Adamian G. G. , Antonenko N. V. , Lenske H. , Sargsyan V. V.
Published: November 2020

Based on the consideration of potential energy of the di-black-hole as a function of mass asymmetry (transfer) collective coordinate, the possibility of matter transfer between the black holes in a binary system is investigated. The sensitivity of the calculated results is studied to the value of the total mass of binary system. The conditions for the merger of two black holes are analyzed in the context of gravitational wave emission.
Analysing the Interrelationship among Supply Chain Knowledge Flow Barriers: A DEISMI Approach
Authors: Bhosale Vishal A. , Kant Ravi
Published: November 2020

Organisations are being aware that it is essential to utilise knowledge to maintain a position in the competitive market. Many significant factors create hindrances to knowledge flow in the supply chain. These factors are known as Supply Chain Knowledge Flow Barriers (SCKFBs). Therefore, most organisations wish to understand how different SCKFBs affect supply chain progress. This research aims to suggest a hybrid three-stage framework of Fuzzy Delphi (FD)–Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM)–Fuzzy Matrice d’Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement (FMICMAC) methodology, combine abbreviated as the fuzzy DEISMI for investigating SCKFBs. This research identifies 26 SCKFBs through literature search and opinion from the experts. FD is used to finalise 15 significant barriers to knowledge flow in the supply chain. Further, ISM methodology helps to develop contextual relationships and a hierarchical model between these significant barriers. The evolved hierarchical model presents interrelationships and interdependencies among the identified SCKFBs. The FMICMAC is applied to identify the driving power and dependence power among SCKFBs. This study shows SCKFBs who have high value of driving power and low value of dependence power have strategic importance in supply chain development. These barriers are at the base of the hierarchical model, and policymakers should give significant consideration towards these SCKFBs.