bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlled replication of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus‘ DNA in citrus leaf discs
Authors: Attaran Elham , Berim Anna , Killiny Nabil , Beyenal Haluk , Gang David R. , Omsland Anders
Published: January 2020

‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ is a fastidious bacterium and a putative agent of citrus greening disease (a.k.a., huanglongbing, HLB), a significant agricultural disease that affects citrus fruit quality and tree health. In citrus, ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ is phloem limited. Lack of culture tools to study ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ complicates analysis of this important organism. To improve understanding of ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’–host interactions including parameters that affect ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ replication, methods suitable for screening pathogen responses to physicochemical and nutritional variables are needed. We describe a leaf disc‐based culture assay that allows highly selective measurement of changes in ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ DNA within plant tissue incubated under specific physicochemical and nutritional conditions. qPCR analysis targeting the hypothetical gene CD16‐00155 (strain A4) allowed selective quantification of ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ DNA content within infected tissue. ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ DNA replication was observed in response to glucose exclusively under microaerobic conditions, and the antibiotic amikacin further enhanced ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ DNA replication. Metabolite profiling revealed a moderate impact of ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ on the ability of leaf tissue to metabolize and respond to glucose.
Factors associated with successful discontinuation of certolizumab pegol in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiya , Atsumi Tatsuya , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Yamanaka Hisashi , Ishiguro Naoki , Eguchi Katsumi , Watanabe Akira , Origasa Hideki , Shoji Toshiharu , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Koike Takao
Published: January 2020

Aim

The Certolizumab–Optimal Prevention of joint damage for Early Rheumatoid Arthritis (C‐OPERA) study demonstrated that in methotrexate (MTX)‐naïve early RA patients with poor prognostic factors, 1‐year certolizumab pegol (CZP) therapy added to the first year of 2‐year optimized MTX therapy brings radiographic and clinical benefits through 2 years even after stopping CZP. This exploratory analysis aimed to identify factors at baseline and at CZP discontinuation associated with successful CZP discontinuation.

Methods

MTX‐naïve early RA patients with poor prognostic factors entered C‐OPERA (NCT01451203), a multicenter, randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized to CZP + MTX (n = 159) or PBO + MTX (n = 157); those who completed the 1‐year, double‐blind period received MTX alone in Year 2 (CZP + MTX→MTX, n = 108; PBO + MTX→MTX, n = 71). Association between factors at baseline or at discontinuation of CZP and clinical/radiographic outcomes were evaluated by multiple logistic regression analysis. Predictive value cut‐offs were calculated using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Sex (male) and low baseline Disease Activity Score of 28 joints – erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28‐ESR) were associated with simple disease activity index (SDAI) remission (≤3.3), whereas high baseline DAS28‐ESR and modified total Sharp score (mTSS) were associated with clinically relevant radiographic progression (yearly progression mTSS > 3) at Week 104 (across both treatment arms). Low DAS28‐ESR (<2.1) and rheumatoid factor (RF; <74 IU/mL) at discontinuation of CZP were associated with SDAI remission at Week 104. At Week 104, SDAI remission was achieved by 75.0% (42/56) of patients with low DAS28‐ESR and RF at discontinuation, compared to 15.4% (2/13) of patients with high DAS28‐ESR and RF.

Conclusion

Patients with low RF and low disease activity after treatment with CZP + MTX may be able to discontinue CZP without risk of loss of response.
Emergency Providers’ Familiarity with Firearms: A National Survey
Authors: Ketterer Andrew R. , Poland Scott , Ray Kaitlin , Abuhasira Ran , Aldeen Amer Z.
Published: January 2020

Background

Emergency providers (EPs) are uniquely placed to advocate for firearm safety and have been shown to be at risk of exposure to firearms in the emergency department (ED). We sought to characterize EPs’ knowledge of firearms, frequency of encountering firearms in the ED and level of confidence with safely removing firearms from patient care settings.

Methods

This was a survey study of EPs representing medical centers in 22 states. A 15‐item questionnaire was e‐mailed to all EPs at all included institutions. Questions pertained to EPs’ knowledge of firearms, experience with handling firearms, and exposure to firearms while at work. We calculated response proportions with p‐values and conducted association analyses among survey items.

Results

Of 2,192 survey recipients, 1,074 (49.0%) completed the survey. A total of 635 (59.1%) reported encountering firearms in the ED or its immediate environment at least once per year, and 582 (54.2%) were not confident in their ability to safely handle a firearm found in a patient's possession. Frequency of handling firearms was significantly higher in states in the top quartile for firearm ownership, with 21.5% of respondents reporting handling firearms daily or weekly, compared to 10.9% in bottom‐quartile states. Level of firearms training also differed significantly: 42.1% of respondents in top‐quartile states reported formal training compared to 33.0% in bottom‐quartile states. Increased regional firearm ownership rates were associated with decreased rates of feeling unsafe at work.

Conclusions

The majority of surveyed EPs reported little experience with handling firearms. Firearm experience was associated with comfort with managing firearms found in patients’ possession. Regional differences were found regarding personal firearm experience and perceptions of workplace safety, both of which were associated with regional variations in firearm ownership. Despite this, no regional differences were found in encountering firearms in or around the ED. EPs may benefit from training on safely handling firearms.
Temperature and prey assessment on the performance of the mealybug predator Tenuisvalvae notata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Ferreira Larissa F , Silva‐Torres Christian S A , Venette Robert C , Torres Jorge B
Published: January 2020

Tenuisvalvae notata preys upon several mealybug species (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), a group of worldwide pests including Planococcus citri and Ferrisia dasyrilii. Although the consequences of variation in temperature for the development and reproduction of insects are generally appreciated, the consequences of potential interactions between temperature and prey for predatory insects are not. Thermal requirements and predation rates were determined for T. notata at different constant temperatures with both prey species. T. notata larvae developed to adults in experimental conditions > 18 to <38 °C. The upper thermal limit for egg hatch was 34 °C and for pupation was 33 °C. Adults reared at ≥32 °C did not lay eggs and survived less than 1 week. Prey species did not affect lower temperature thresholds or thermal constants for development from egg to adult. Furthermore, prey did not affect a number of reproductive traits, but the interaction between temperature and prey affected changes in developmental times and oviposition rate with age. Predation rate of T. notata increased as a function of temperature, and T. notata adults generally consumed more nymphs of P. citri than F. dasyrilii. These findings indicate that T. notata is well adapted to the tropical and sub‐tropical temperatures and may prove useful for the biological control of some native and non‐native mealybugs.
Treatment of symptomatic fibroid disease using uterine fibroid embolisation: An Australian perspective
Authors: Clements Warren , Ang W. Catarina , Law Meng , Goh Gerard S.
Published: January 2020

Uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) are symptomatic in up to 35% of women and treatment can be a costly burden to the individual and society. Options for treatment range from non‐hormonal, hormonal, minimally invasive, to surgery. While symptoms from smaller fibroids may respond to simple treatment, those with larger fibroids or with a large volume of disease require a more definitive option. Surgery (hysterectomy or myomectomy) are both well‐established treatment modalities with good clinical outcomes. Since the 1990s, uterine fibroid embolisation has emerged as a less invasive option for women than for surgical techniques, while level 1 evidence shows that in the short to mid‐term, there is a similar improvement in symptom‐related quality of life outcomes to surgery, but with reduced hospital stay and reduced cost. However, in the longer term there may be a need for further treatment or retreatment in some patients compared with surgery. Since its introduction, uptake of this procedure in Australia has been low relative to surgical options. This manuscript reviews the current literature surrounding treatment, along with the trends in uptake of embolisation by Australian women, places this in context of current guidelines from major societies, and encourages gynaecologists and interventional radiologists to be aware of the advantages and limitations of embolisation.
Utility of preoperative blood screening before hip and knee arthroplasty
Authors: Shumborski Sarah , Gooden Benjamin , Salmon Lucy J. , O'Sullivan Michael , Pinczewski Leo A. , Roe Justin P. , Martina Kaka , Chopra Sarthak , Maclean Colin , Lyons Matthew C.
Published: January 2020

Background

It is engrained in medical training that routine blood screening prior to arthroplasty is necessary for optimal patient care. There is little evidence to support their utility and the aggregate cost to the health system. The purpose of this study was to evaluate preoperative blood screening by identifying the frequency of an abnormal result and to examine the influence of age, gender and body mass index on the frequency of abnormal blood pathology.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of 1000 patients from a single centre who underwent elective primary hip or knee arthroplasty from 2015 to 2017. Abnormal blood results were identified and clinically relevant intervals were created for routine markers.

Results

A total of 939 patients had available pathology results with 84% identified as having an abnormal result and 47% having a clinically important range. Abnormal liver function tests and ferritin were most common. With increasing age, there was a significant increase in rates of abnormal clinically important range, renal dysfunction, abnormal haemoglobin and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Males and patients with body mass index >40 had an increased rate of abnormal results, particularly liver function tests.

Conclusion

The ordering of preoperative investigations prior to lower limb arthroplasty is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, alleviating concern of post‐operative complications and covering medicolegal issues. Our study determined a high frequency of abnormal results, justifying routine blood screening is recommended prior to surgery, particularly for the elderly, males and obese patients.
How much does axillary ultrasound contribute in women undergoing breast‐conserving surgery with no palpable axillary nodes?
Authors: Preda Tamara , McGrath Rachel , Bingham Janne , Fawcett Alexandra , O'Dea Chloe , Bochner Melissa , Gill Peter Grantley , Kollias James
Published: January 2020

Background

The primary objective was evaluation of axillary ultrasound (AxUS) in preoperative staging of patients with invasive carcinoma undergoing breast‐conserving surgery.

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational cohort study of patients with clinically node‐negative (cN0) biopsy‐proven invasive breast carcinoma undergoing breast‐conserving surgery between January 2011 and December 2014 who underwent AxUS with fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of sonographically abnormal lymph nodes. Patient records were reviewed.

Results

A total of 713 cases were analysed. Four hundred and thirty‐three patients underwent formal preoperative AxUS; 100 underwent biopsy for abnormal findings. Of these, 32 had positive FNA biopsy result and underwent level II axillary dissection (axillary lymph node dissection (ALND)). Thirty were T1–2 tumours with AxUS scan/FNA demonstrating sensitivity of 25.2%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100% and negative predictive value of 76.6%. Forty‐six patients had a positive sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy and axillary dissection. 34.8% of T1 tumours, 47.8% of T2 tumours and 100% of T3 tumours had further positive nodes. The average number of nodes involved per axilla was 1.8 for the T1 group, 4.1 for the T2 group and 4.6 in the T3 group. Macrometastases were a more common finding than micrometastases for all T stages undergoing ALND. A suspicious preoperative AxUS result was significantly associated with positive SLN. Other risk factors for positive SLN biopsy were oestrogen receptor positivity and lymphovascular invasion.

Conclusion

AxUS identifies patients with high nodal burdens justifying immediate ALND. AxUS did not adversely affect women with histologically negative sentinel nodes. Three percent may have been overtreated.
Long‐term survival outcomes of undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver: a pooled analysis of 308 patients
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Wei Youzhu , Cai Zhibin , Zhou Yanming
Published: January 2020

Background

Treatment of undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) is a great clinical challenge due to its rarity. This study aims to examine the long‐term survival of UESL patients after treatment using different therapeutic modalities.

Methods

A pooled analysis of individual data was performed on all UESL patients obtained from literature search (n = 307) and our institution (n = 1).

Results

The 5‐year overall survival rate of the 308 patients was 65.8%, 70% for partial hepatectomy group (n = 271), 78.9% for liver transplantation group (n = 14) and 6.6% for nonsurgical treatment group (n = 23). For patients receiving partial hepatectomy, paediatric patients, radical resection and combined chemotherapy were independent predictors for improved survival.

Conclusion

Radical hepatectomy combined chemotherapy should be considered as the preferred treatment option for USEL. Liver transplantation appears to be a reasonable alternative for unresectable disease.
Application of the microRNA‐302/367 cluster in cancer therapy
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Wang Ying , Ji Ping , Jin Xin
Published: January 2020

As a novel class of noncoding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) can effectively silence their target genes at the posttranscriptional level. Various biological processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and motility, are regulated by miRNAs. In different diseases and different stages of disease, miRNAs have various expression patterns, which makes them candidate prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Abnormal miRNA expression has been detected in numerous neoplastic diseases in humans, which indicates the potential role of miRNAs in tumorigenesis. Previous studies have indicated that miRNAs are involved in nearly the entire process of tumor development. MicroRNA‐302a, miR‐302b, miR‐302c, miR‐302d, and miR‐367 are members of the miR‐302/367 cluster that plays various biological roles in diverse neoplastic diseases by targeting different genes. These miRNAs have been implicated in several unique characteristics of cancer, including the evasion of growth suppressors, the sustained activation of proliferative signaling, the evasion of cell death and senescence, and the regulation of angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. This review provides a critical overview of miR‐302/367 cluster dysregulation and the subsequent effects in cancer and highlights the vast potential of members of this cluster as therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers.
Refractory case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated encephalomyelitis with lumbosacral radiculitis
Authors: Nakamura Masashi , Fujimori Juichi , Kobayashi Michiko , Ishigaki Aya , Kikuchi Hirokazu , Miyazawa Koichi , Sato Kazuhiko , Kawasaski Emiko , Suzuki Yasushi , Nakashima Ichiro
Published: January 2020

Background

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG‐IgG) has been identified in demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, including neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) without the presence of anti‐aquaporin‐4 antibody. Patients with MOG‐IgG present with clinical symptoms distinct from those of multiple sclerosis or NMOSD, so MOG‐IgG‐associated encephalomyelitis (MOG‐EM) is regarded as an entity distinct from multiple sclerosis and NMOSD. In contrast to NMOSD with anti‐aquaporin‐4 antibody, MOG‐EM has been reported to respond well to steroid therapy, and the functional prognosis of this disease is good. However, here we report a patient with MOG‐EM and lumbosacral radiculitis who showed little response to various immune therapies.

Case presentation

A 40‐year‐old man presented with acute paraplegia and sensory disturbance in the lower body. MOG‐IgG was positive both in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Steroid pulse therapy, plasma exchange, intravenous immunoglobulin and cyclophosphamide pulse therapy were ineffective. In nerve conduction studies, compound muscle action potentials and F‐waves were not evoked in bilateral lower limb nerves, suggesting severe damage of peripheral nerves and lower motor neurons. Gadolinium enhancement was observed in the cauda equina.

Conclusions

The mechanisms of peripheral nerve system involvement in MOG‐EM are unknown, but the present case suggests that MOG‐EM might occasionally combine with peripheral nerve system disturbance. Lumbosacral radiculitis combined with MOG‐IgG can be refractory, and serious sequela might be observed.
Workflow for highly porous resorbable custom 3D printed scaffolds using medical grade polymer for large volume alveolar bone regeneration
Authors: Bartnikowski Michal , Vaquette Cedryck , Ivanovski Sašo
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This study investigates the design, workflow, and manufacture of highly porous, resorbable additively manufactured, 3‐dimensional (3D) custom scaffolds for the regeneration of large volume alveolar bone defects.

Materials and Methods

Computed tomography (CT) scans of 5 posterior mandibular vertical bone defects were obtained. Surface masks (3D surface contours) of the recipient site were first isolated using a contrast threshold, transformed into 3D objects, and used to guide the formation of custom implant template models. To determine model accuracy and fit, the gap and overlap between the patient geometry models and the idealized template 3D models were quantified. Models were 3D printed from medical grade polycaprolactone (PCL) into porous scaffolds. For scaffold dimensional quantification, scaffolds were scanned using a micro‐computed tomography (µCT) scanner.

Results

The design and printing processes each achieved dimensional errors of <200 µm on average. The average gap between the template implant model and the scanned scaffold model was found to be 74 ± 14 µm. The printed scaffold was confirmed as having a porosity of 83.91%, a mean polymer or filament thickness of 200 ± 46 µm, and a mean pore size of 590 ± 243 µm.

Conclusion

The approach described in this study is straightforward, adaptable to a range of patient geometries, and results in the formation of reproducible, dimensionally accurate custom implants. These highly porous 3D structures manufactured from resorbable medical grade material represent a potentially transformative technology toward the clinical implementation of scaffold‐guided bone regeneration procedures.
Renal transplant outcomes in patients with autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease
Authors: Cormican Sarah , Kennedy Claire , Connaughton Dervla M. , O'Kelly Patrick , Murray Susan , Živná Martina , Kmoch Stanislav , Fennelly Neil K. , Benson Katherine A. , Conlon Eoin T. , Cavalleri Gianpiero L. , Foley Claire , Doyle Brendan , Dorman Anthony , Little Mark A. , Lavin Peter , Kidd Kendrah , Bleyer Anthony J. , Conlon Peter J.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD) is a rare genetic cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). We aimed to compare renal transplant outcomes in people with ESRD due to ADTKD to those with other causes of renal failure.

Methods

Patients with clinical characteristics consistent with ADTKD by the criteria outlined in the 2015 KDIGO consensus were included. We compared ADTKD transplant outcomes with those of 4633 non‐ADTKD renal transplant recipients.

Results

We included 31 patients who met diagnostic criteria for ADTKD in this analysis, 23 of whom had an identified mutation (28 were categorized as definite‐ADTKD and 3 as suspected ADTKD). Five patients received a second transplant during follow‐up. In total, 36 grafts were included. We did not identify significant differences between groups in terms of graft or patient survival after transplantation. Twenty‐five transplant biopsies were performed during follow‐up, and none of these showed signs of recurrent ADTKD post‐transplant.

Conclusion

In patients with ESRD due to ADTKD, we demonstrate that transplant outcomes are comparable with the general transplant population. There is no evidence that ADTKD can recur after transplantation.
HOME EQUITY IN RETIREMENT
Authors: Nakajima Makoto , Telyukova Irina A.
Published: January 2020

Retired homeowners dissave more slowly than renters, which suggests that homeownership affects retirees' saving decisions. We investigate empirically and theoretically the life‐cycle patterns of homeownership, housing, and nonhousing assets in retirement. Using an estimated structural model of saving and housing decisions, we find first that homeowners dissave slowly because they prefer to stay in their house as long as possible but cannot easily borrow against it. Second, the 1996–2006 housing boom significantly increased homeowners' assets. These channels are quantitatively significant; without considering homeownership, retirees' net worth would be 28%–44% lower, depending on age.
Study on the reduction of commercial MoO3 with carbon black to prepare MoO2 and Mo2C nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Guo‐Dong , Zhang Guo‐Hua , Yan Bai‐Jun , Chou Kuo‐Chih
Published: January 2020

A simple method was developed to synthesize MoO2 and Mo2C nanoparticles via controlling nucleation and growth in carbothermic reduction of commercial MoO3 with carbon black. It was found that the appropriate C/MoO3 molar ratio for preparation of Mo2C was 2.8, and the carbothermic reduction process followed the sequence: MoO3 → transport phase (TP) → MoO2 → Mo2C. It was revealed that the most crucial issues for controlling number of produced particles of product were migration of Mo source and aid of nucleating agent, which can be achieved by using MoO3 and carbon black as starting materials. MoO2 nanosheets with the thickness of 12 nm and lateral size of 60 nm, as well as Mo2C nanoparticles with particle size of 30 nm were prepared via reduction of MoO3 with carbon black. However, MoO2 and Mo2C produced via reducing MoO3 by other kinds of carbon sources (activated carbon, graphite) or gas reductants (10% CH4/H2, CO) had much larger particle sizes of a few micrometers, which were tens of times than those using MoO3 and carbon black, due to the too small amount of formed nuclei. The effects of C/MoO3 molar ratio (0.5‐2.8), molybdenum sources and carbon sources on the reaction mechanisms were investigated in detail.
Manufacturer warranty service outsourcing strategies in a dual‐channel supply chain
Authors: Zhang Yiwen , He Zhen , He Shuguang , Cai Keyuan , Wang Dongfan
Published: January 2020

Warranty management for durable products has received increasing attention in recent years. In addition to conventionally keeping warranty in‐house, more manufacturers choose to outsource warranty service to agents. This paper explores outsourcing strategies for manufacturer warranty services in a dual‐channel supply chain by which the demand‐enhancing service can be undertaken by different supply chain parties. We show the results of three alternative outsourcing strategies for manufacturers whereby (a) the retailer undertakes the service, (b) a third party undertakes the service, and (c) both the retailer and a third party undertake the service simultaneously. According to Stackelberg game theory, we build a two‐echelon supply chain model and discuss the corresponding expressions for supply chain members' equilibrium decisions. Additionally, we compare the profits of each supply chain member and derive interesting managerial insights. When the base market size is relatively large, Scenario R helps the manufacturer and the retailer reach a “win‐win” situation.
A new identification of the conducting phase in tungsten‐titanium‐phosphate glass‐ceramics
Authors: Moore Lisa , Dutta Indrajit , Wheaton Bryan , Stapleton Erika , Parysek Ronald , Aitken Bruce
Published: January 2020

Glass‐ceramics in the tungsten‐titanium‐phosphate system were first reported in 1992. The glass‐ceramics exhibited electrical resistivity as low as log(ρ) = −1.8 Ω·cm, which was attributed to an interconnecting network of tungsten suboxide crystals, WO3−x. A new identification of the conducting phase as a phosphate tungsten bronze, (PO4)2(WO3)2m, is reported. High‐temperature x‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy have been used to provide a detailed description of the crystalline phases and their development. As the ceramming temperature was raised, the phase assemblage progressed from cubic tungsten oxide and titanium pyrophosphate to phosphate tungsten bronzes. The m‐values of the bronzes ranged from 2 to 7 depending on composition.
Anti‐angiogenic effects of the blue‐green alga Arthrospira platensis on pancreatic cancer
Authors: Marková Ivana , Koníčková Renata , Vaňková Kateřina , Leníček Martin , Kolář Michal , Strnad Hynek , Hradilová Miluše , Šáchová Jana , Rasl Jan , Klímová Zuzana , Vomastek Tomáš , Němečková Ivana , Nachtigal Petr , Vítek Libor
Published: January 2020

Arthrospira platensis, a blue‐green alga, is a popular nutraceutical substance having potent antioxidant properties with potential anti‐carcinogenic activities. The aim of our study was to assess the possible anti‐angiogenic effects of A platensis in an experimental model of pancreatic cancer. The effects of an A platensis extract were investigated on human pancreatic cancer cells (PA‐TU‐8902) and immortalized endothelial‐like cells (Ea.hy926). PA‐TU‐8902 pancreatic tumours xenografted to athymic mice were also examined. In vitro migration and invasiveness assays were performed on the tested cells. Multiple angiogenic factors and signalling pathways were analysed in the epithelial, endothelial and cancer cells, and tumour tissue. The A platensis extract exerted inhibitory effects on both migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer as well as endothelial‐like cells. Tumours of mice treated with A platensis exhibited much lesser degrees of vascularization as measured by CD31 immunostaining (P = .004). Surprisingly, the VEGF‐A mRNA and protein expressions were up‐regulated in pancreatic cancer cells. A platensis inhibited ERK activation upstream of Raf and suppressed the expression of ERK‐regulated proteins. Treatment of pancreatic cancer with A platensis was associated with suppressive effects on migration and invasiveness with various anti‐angiogenic features, which might account for the anticancer effects of this blue‐green alga.
A Survey of University Students’ Preferences for Midwifery Care and Community Birth Options in 8 High‐Income Countries
Authors: Stoll Kathrin H. , Downe Soo , Edmonds Joyce , Gross Mechthild M. , Malott Anne , McAra‐Couper Judith , Sadler Michelle , Thomson Gill ,   the ICAPP Study Team
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Midwifery care is associated with positive birth outcomes, access to community birth options, and judicious use of interventions. The aim of this study was to characterize and compare maternity care preferences of university students across a range of maternity care systems and to explore whether preferences align with evidence‐based recommendations and options available.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, web‐based survey was completed in 2014 and 2015 by a convenience sample of university students in 8 high‐income countries across 4 continents (N = 4569). In addition to describing preferences for midwifery care and community birth options across countries, this study examined sociodemographic characteristics, psychological factors, knowledge about pregnancy and birth, and sources of information that shaped students’ attitudes toward birth in relation to preferences for midwifery care and community birth options.

Results

Approximately half of the student respondents (48.2%) preferred midwifery‐led care for a healthy pregnancy; 9.5% would choose to give birth in a birthing center, and 4.5% preferred a home birth. Preference for midwifery care varied from 10.3% among women in the United States to 78.6% among women in the United Kingdom. Preferences for home birth varied from 0.3% among US women to 18.3% among Canadian women. Women, health science students, those with low childbirth fear, those who learned about pregnancy and birth from friends (compared with other sources, eg, the media), and those who responded from Europe were significantly more likely to prefer midwifery care and community birth. High confidence in knowledge of pregnancy and birth was linked to significantly higher odds of community birth preferences and midwifery care preferences.

Discussion

It would be beneficial to integrate childbirth education into high school curricula to promote knowledge of midwifery care, pregnancy, and childbirth and to reduce fear among prospective parents. Community birth options need to be expanded to meet demand among the next generation of maternity service users.
Central administration of REV‐ERBα agonist promotes opposite responses on energy balance in fasted and fed states
Authors: Borba Tássia Karin Ferreira , Toscano Ana Elisa , Costa de Santana Bárbara Juacy Rodrigues , Silva Severina Cassia de Andrade , Lagranha Claudia Jacques , Guzmán Quevedo Omar , Manhães‐de‐Castro Raul
Published: January 2020

The REV‐ERBα receptor has a recognised role in the regulation of the circadian rhythm system. However, recent evidence suggests that it also contributes to energy balance regulation. Both expression and function of REV‐ERBα can be influenced by the energy status of the body. Considering the possibility of the involvement of REV‐ERBα in the regulation of energy balance, which is critically regulated by the hypothalamus, and based on the impact of intermittent fasting, the present study evaluated the effects of central administration of REV‐ERBα agonist on energy balance in rats exposed to 24 hours of fasting or ad lib. feeding conditions. Initially, 24‐hour fasted rats received an acute i.c.v. administration of agonist at doses of 1, 5, 10 or 15 μg per rat and feed efficiency was evaluated. Because 10 μg was a sufficient dose to affect feed efficiency, subsequent experiments used this dose to assess effects of agonist on the following parameters: energy expenditure induced by physical activity and locomotor activity, time spent in physical activity over 24 hours, and glucose and insulin tolerance. In fasted rats, the agonist promoted increased food intake and feed efficiency, with a greater body weight gain associated with less time spent in locomotor activity, suggesting a reduction in energy expenditure induced by physical activity. Furthermore, a reduction in glucose tolerance was noted. By contrast, free‐fed rats exhibited reduced food intake and feed efficiency with decreased body weight gain along with an increase in locomotor activity and physical activity‐dependent energy expenditure. Thus, i.c.v. administration of REV‐ERBα agonist regulates energy balance depending on the energy status of the organism; that is, it promotes a positive energy balance in the fasted state and a negative energy balance in the fed state. These results may be useful in understanding the underlying mechanisms of energy balance disorders and intermittent fasting for body weight control.
Ecophysiological changes and spore formation: two strategies in response to low‐temperature and high‐light stress in Klebsormidium cf. flaccidum (Klebsormidiophyceae, Streptophyta)1
Authors: Míguez Fátima , Holzinger Andreas , Fernandez‐Marin Beatriz , García‐Plazaola José I. , Karsten Ulf , Gustavs Lydia
Published: January 2020

Members of the cosmopolitan streptophycean genus Klebsormidium live in various habitats, including sand dunes and polar/alpine environments. To survive in these harsh conditions they must possess an array of adaptive physiological and structural mechanisms, for example, to deal with chilling and photochilling stresses. Since these mechanisms have not been studied in detail, the objectives of this study were (i) to determine the physiological and biochemical responses of Klebsormidium cf. flaccidum (K. cf. flaccidum) to chilling (low temperature [LT]) and photochilling (LT in combination with high light [HL]) stresses; and (ii) to understand the cross‐link between biochemical parameters and cellular ultrastructural changes. The results indicated that 5°C is a temperature threshold (i.e., at 5°C) but not at higher temperatures, physiological changes were observed (Fv/Fm and ETR decreased and energy‐partitioning distribution changed, with an increase in Y[NPQ] under LT and an increase in Y[NO] under HL‐LT). Also, pigment contents changed significantly, with increased concentrations of photoprotective pigments such as antheraxanthin, zeaxanthin, and total carotenes. All of these responses occurred under LT and, to a greater extent, under LT‐HL, indicating that the two stresses (temperature and light) are additive. The cold treatment applied here induced the formation of spores under both LL and HL. The degree of photoinhibition was higher in spores than in vegetative cells, indicating that spores are less susceptible to photodamage. This study demonstrated a broad acclimation potential in different developmental stages of K. cf. flaccidum, which helps to explain the ecological success of this genus.
Moody habitus: Bourdieu with existential feelings
Authors: Räsänen Keijo , Kauppinen Ilkka
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a way of integrating the concepts of habitus and mood. The purpose of this conceptual move is to enrich Pierre Bourdieu's treatment of habitus with a better recognition of its affective aspects. The paper draws on phenomenological studies of psychic disorders and applies the concept of existential feeling to specify what moods are and do. The framing proposed distinguishes between dispositions that function in the foreground and in the background of habitus. Thereby it is possible to regard moods as background dispositions of habitus. This paper also discusses what this idea of moody habitus can do for research in habitus and human practice.
Worked examples for teaching electrocardiogram interpretation: Salient or discriminatory features?
Authors: Thach Terence Huy , Blissett Sarah , Sibbald Matthew
Published: January 2020

Context

Cognitive load theory states that one way to optimise learning is to decrease extraneous cognitive load, defined as information not relevant to task completion. Worked examples, which show the learner the logic behind the solving of a problem, can decrease extraneous load. However, there is little research to guide the optimal formatting of worked examples.

Methods

In a crossover design, first‐year medical students were randomised to worked examples of bradycardias with salient features first and tachycardias with discriminatory features second (n = 33) or worked examples of bradycardias with discriminatory features first and tachycardias with salient features second (n = 32). After each learning phase, participants completed a testing phase. Diagnostic accuracy and reported cognitive load were compared between the two worked example formats, as well as with data for a group of historical controls, consisting of medical students interpreting electrocardiogram rhythms without worked examples. Each module concluded with a questionnaire in which the learner was asked to rate his or her perceptions of the difficulty of the core content, the clarity with which the information was presented, and perceived learning.

Results

Worked examples highlighting salient and discriminatory features were associated with similar levels of diagnostic accuracy (56% and 60%, respectively; P = .32). Both worked example conditions were associated with higher diagnostic accuracy than was found in historical controls (P < .0001). There was no difference in the extraneous load experienced between worked examples highlighting salient features and those highlighting discriminatory features (12.5 ± 6.1 and 11.9 ± 6.1, respectively; P = .52). Participants reported greater intrinsic load in the worked examples highlighting salient rather than discriminatory features (17.1 ± 4.9 and 15.5 ± 4.6, respectively; P = .01).

Conclusions

Discriminatory feature‐based worked examples were associated with less intrinsic cognitive load, but this did not translate into any meaningful difference in diagnostic performance. Instruction with worked examples improved diagnostic performance regardless of whether salient or discriminatory features were highlighted.
Becoming a parent: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of changes in BMI, diet, and physical activity
Authors: Corder Kirsten , Winpenny Eleanor M. , Foubister Campbell , Guagliano Justin M. , Hartwig Xenia M. , Love Rebecca , Clifford Astbury Chloe , van Sluijs Esther M.F.
Published: January 2020

Obesity prevalence rises fastest during young adulthood when weight, diet, and physical activity may be influenced by life events, including becoming a parent, but the impact is uncertain. We searched six electronic databases to July 2019 for longitudinal studies (both sexes) aged 15 to 35 years with a prospective pre‐pregnancy/parenthood and post‐delivery outcome. Of 11 studies (across 15 papers), six studies (women only) were eligible for meta‐analysis of the difference in change in body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) between remaining without children and becoming a parent. Mean (±SD) BMI gain for non‐mothers was 2.8 ± 1.3 kg/m2 (~7.5 kg for 164‐cm woman) over 5.6 ± 3.1 years; 12.3% of baseline BMI (22.8 ± 2.5 kg/m2). Becoming a mother was associated with an additional BMI increase of 0.47 ± 0.26 kg/m2 (~1.3 kg), 4.3% of baseline BMI (22.8 ± 5.6 kg/m2); the one study including men reported no difference in change. Physical activity results were equivocal; 2/4 studies (women) and 2/2 (men) showed a greater decline in parents versus non‐parents; diet (three studies) varied by dietary measure, mostly indicating no difference. Becoming a mother is associated with 17% greater absolute BMI gain than remaining childless. Motherhood BMI gain is additional to an alarming BMI increase among young women, highlighting the need for obesity prevention among all young women, including mothers.
Silencing of FOXA2 decreases E‐cadherin expression and is associated with lymph node metastasis in oral cancer
Authors: Bow Yung‐Ding , Wang Yen‐Yun , Chen Yuk‐Kwan , Su Chang‐Wei , Hsu Ching‐Wei , Xiao Ling‐Yi , Yuan Shyng‐Shiou , Li Ruei‐Nian
Published: January 2020

Objectives

FOXA2 gene methylation links to the progression of cancers, but has not been documented in oral cancer. Herein, we explore the role of FOXA2 in the migration of oral cancer cells.

Material and Methods

Methylation‐specific PCR was applied for gene methylation. Wound healing and transwell experiments were tested for cell migration. FOXA2 expression in oral cancer tissues was addressed by immunohistochemistry, followed by statistical analysis of its association with clinical manifestations and patient survival.

Results

FOXA2 bound to the promoter of CDH1 and enhanced the expression of its gene product E‐cadherin, and decreased the cancer cell migration activity. High FOXA2 expression in oral cancer tissues was associated with high E‐cadherin expression, decreased lymph node metastasis, and increased patient survival.

Conclusion

FOXA2‐E‐cadherin link is involved in regulation of oral cancer cell metastasis and provides a new insight for the tumor suppressor activity of FOXA2 in oral cancer.
Validity of stress assessment using heart‐rate variability in newborns
Authors: Hashiguchi Kanae , Kuriyama Nagato , Koyama Teruhide , Matsui Daisuke , Ozaki Etsuko , Hasegawa Tatsuji , Tokuda Sachiko , Niwa Fumitoshi , Iwasa Koichi , Watanabe Isao , Teramukai Satoshi , Kitawaki Jo , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Uehara Ritei , Hosoi Hajime
Published: January 2020

Background

The process of birth causes stress for neonates, but additional stressors for sick neonates are a matter of concern. As analysis of heart‐rate variability (HRV), which reflects autonomic activity, has demonstrated that low‐frequency (LF) activity reflects overall autonomic activity, high‐frequency (HF) activity reflects parasympathetic activity, and the LF/HF ratio reflects sympathetic activity, HRV has been clinically applied as a non‐invasive index of physical stress. In this study, we evaluated whether HRV is useful as a stress index for neonates by analyzing it in comparison with their salivary cortisol level.

Methods

We measured the salivary cortisol level and HRV in 12 healthy neonates and 37 neonates born during between 2014 and 2016 and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. These examinations were performed at birth and after approximately 1 week. The changes in parameters with time were examined.

Results

The LF and HF values in both groups exhibited significant negative correlations with the salivary cortisol level. In those admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, the LF and HF values were correlated with gestational age and height. In the healthy neonates, a reduced salivary cortisol level and increase in the LF and HF values were observed approximately 1 week after birth compared with the values at birth, whereas the LF/HF ratio was not correlated with the salivary cortisol level and did not change over time.

Conclusions

The LF and HF values were significantly correlated with the cortisol level, suggesting their usefulness as physiological indices of stress in clinical neonatal care.
Antimicrobial prescription patterns in a tertiary‐care pediatric unit in Thailand
Authors: Chautrakarn Sineenart , Anugulruengkitt Suvaporn , Puthanakit Thanyawee , Rattananupong Thanapoom , Hiransuthikul Narin
Published: January 2020

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest public health threats worldwide. The improper prescription of antibiotics is one factor that promotes antibiotic resistance. Access to antimicrobial surveillance data is essential when assessing the pattern and appropriateness of antimicrobial prescriptions in hospitals and for the establishment of an antimicrobial stewardship program. This study aimed to describe the rate of antimicrobial use and the pattern of prescriptions in a tertiary care pediatric unit in Thailand.

Methods

A point prevalence survey on antimicrobial use was conducted monthly between January and June 2016, using standardized tools. The survey included all inpatient pediatric beds and identified all children receiving antimicrobial treatment on the day of the survey.

Results

The study included 644 children, 43.3% of whom received antimicrobial treatment during hospitalization. In general wards, the rate of antimicrobial prescriptions was 37.2%; in oncology wards it was 47.0%; in intensive care units it was 38.7%, and in surgical wards it was 67.7%. Meropenem was the most prescribed antimicrobial in the general wards (24.5%) and intensive care units (28.6%), whereas antipseudomonas was the most commonly prescribed antimicrobial in the oncology ward (26.6%). For the surgical ward, the most prescribed antimicrobial was third‐generation cephalosporin for both prophylaxis and treatment (39.0%). The most common reason for antimicrobial use was the treatment of infections.

Conclusions

Nearly half of hospitalized children received at least one antimicrobial. This was comparable with other pediatric tertiary care centers, although the high use of meropenem was different. This study provides important baseline information on antimicrobial use in a large tertiary‐care pediatric unit and could lead to a nationwide survey in the future.
Challenges in applying capacitated covering models
Authors: Xu Jing , Murray Alan , Wang Zifan , Church Richard
Published: January 2020

Service system planning has long been supported by location‐covering models designed to address access and accessibility issues. An important aspect of many systems is limits on service, often conceptualized as facility capacities. Much research can be found that proposes modeling approaches and solution techniques to account for capacitated covering problems, and commercial GIS software exists that is capable of structuring and applying facility service limits. This article reviews issues and challenges associated with the application of capacitated covering models, including critical evaluation of allocation approaches and GIS capabilities. Case studies involving service provision in two cities in California—San Jose and Santa Barbara—are provided to highlight associated issues faced in practice. While user‐friendly commercial software makes it easy to access capacitated cover models, there remain challenges for addressing underlying considerations and assumptions in practice.
Biographical Notes
Authors: -- --
Published: January 2020

Material Ecocriticism
Echoes of Ecocriticism: An Introduction
Authors: Novero Cecilia
Published: January 2020

Starting with the analysis of a contemporary NZ artwork that is read through the lens of material ecocriticism, Cecilia Novero unpacks some of the new tendencies and theories in this interdisciplinary field, and focuses on the ways in which these have been appropriated, morphed and newly developed in German-speaking cultures. The essay highlights both the challenges and the new inspiring visions that have emerged in this ‘open’ research field in which the long-standing question of “mediation” — between text and world, narrative and matter—returns, albeit from a radically different, indeed “capsized”, perspective. This is the perspective of a world that stories, while it is storied, through material narrative processes of entanglement, where writing and reading, producing and consuming are inextricably linked acts. This introduction frames the following contributions within the larger framework of material ecocriticism. At the same time it retraces their particular debt to and impact on the German-speaking traditions of environmentalist critique.
Short-Term Stable Isotope Probing of Proteins Reveals Taxa Incorporating Inorganic Carbon in a Hot Spring Microbial Mat
Authors: Steinke Laurey , Slysz Gordon W. , Lipton Mary S. , Klatt Christian , Moran James J. , Romine Margie F. , Wood Jason M. , Anderson Gordon , Bryant Donald A. , Ward David M.
Published: January 2020

Yellowstone hot spring mats have been studied as natural models for understanding microbial community ecology and as modern analogs of stromatolites, the earliest community fossils on Earth. Stable-isotope probing of proteins (Pro-SIP) permitted short-term interrogation of the taxa that are involved in the important process of light-driven C
i
fixation in this highly active community and will be useful in linking other metabolic processes to mat taxa. Here, evidence is presented that
Roseiflexus
spp., which use the 3-hydroxypropionate bi-cycle, are active in C
i
fixation. Because this pathway imparts a lower degree of selection of isotopically heavy C
i
than does the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle, the results suggest a mechanism to explain why the natural abundance of
13
C in mat biomass is greater than expected if only the latter pathway were involved. Understanding how mat community members influence the
13
C/
12
C ratios of mat biomass will help geochemists interpret the
13
C/
12
C ratios of organic carbon in the fossil record.