bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A clinico‐demographic study of 344 patients with lichen planus pigmentosus seen in a tertiary care center in India over an 8‐year period
Authors: Vinay Keshavamurthy , Kumar Sheetanshu , Bishnoi Anuradha , Aggarwal Divya , Radotra Bishan Dass , Parsad Davinder , Sendhil Kumaran Muthu
Published: June 2019

Background

Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) is an acquired disorder of hyperpigmentation affecting certain racial and ethnic groups.

Objective

To retrospectively analyze the demographic and clinical characteristics of LPP.

Methods

Clinical and demographic records of all LPP patients attending our pigmentary clinic from January 2011 to June 2018 were reviewed.

Results

Data of 344 LPP patients (229 females) were analyzed. Affected females had significantly higher age at onset (P < 0.002) but lesser disease duration at presentation (P < 0.001) as compared to males. Significant positive correlation between body surface area involvement and disease duration was observed (r = 0.72). Personal history of atopy and accompanying autoimmune diseases were observed in 49 (14.24%) and 45 (13.08%) patients, respectively. Observed morphological patterns of LPP included diffuse (n = 193, 56.1%); reticular (n = 45, 13.1%); blotchy (n = 41, 11.9%); and follicular (n = 28, 8.1%). All the patients had a chronic and indolent course of disease with approximately half (49.2%) reporting satisfactory improvement with treatment.

Conclusion

This is the largest clinico‐demographic study till date on LPP. A longer disease duration was associated with more widespread disease. Although the disease improved over time as per patient and physician global assessment, a complete clearance was rarely attained.
Low concentration short time ozonation of rapeseed seeds reduces the stability of the oil and content of some antioxidant components
Authors: Jackowska Izabella , Bojanowska Monika , Staszowska‐Karkut Monika , Sachadyn‐Król Monika
Published: June 2019

Ozonation is an innovative way to preserve high quality of seed during storage and it is an alternative to harmful organophosphorus agents. Disclosure of changes in the rapeseed oil under the influence of oxidative action of ozone on the seeds was the aim of the work and is presented for the first time. Two ozone concentrations and different length of ozonation were applied. The changes in tocopherols, phenolics, flavonoids contents, antiradical activity and oxidative stability were examined. The average vitamin E concentration was 33 mg per 100 g of oil before and 31.7 after ozonation of seeds. The average content of phenolic compounds was 14.3 mg of sinapic acid g−1 and 16.9 after the ozone treatment. Changes in the flavonoids content and antioxidant activity were observed too. Ozonation caused a decrease in the vitamin E concentration which resulted also in reducing the quenching of free radicals and reduction of oil induction time.
Quality changes of pork during frozen storage: comparison of immersion solution freezing and air blast freezing
Authors: Hou Qin , Cheng Yu‐ping , Kang Da‐cheng , Zhang Wan‐gang , Zhou Guang‐hong
Published: June 2019

This study evaluated the effects of freezing method and storage time on the quality changes of pork longissimus thoracis (LT). The results showed that, compared to air blast freezing (AF), better microstructure was observed in pork under immersion solution freezing (ISF) mainly due to higher freezing rate. ISF group had significantly lower thawing loss at 1, 31 and 91 days and higher shear force at 1 day than AF (P < 0.05). A significant reduction in TBARS value at 61 and 91 days was observed in ISF samples (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two treatments in the colour, cooking loss and sulfhydryl groups (P > 0.05). All quality indicators were significantly affected by storage time (P < 0.05). It is concluded that ISF could maintain better microstructure, improve water‐holding capacity and inhibit lipid oxidation during pork LT frozen storage.
Effects of virgin coconut oil on the physicochemical, morphological and antibacterial properties of potato starch‐based biodegradable films
Authors: Fangfang Zhang , Xinpeng Bai , Wei Gao , Wang Guoding , Shi Zhenzhen , Jun Cao
Published: June 2019

This study investigated the effects of adding different concentrations of virgin coconut oil (VCO) on the optical, mechanical, thermodynamic and antimicrobial properties, as well as water vapour permeability and morphology of potato starch‐based biodegradable films. Increasing VCO concentrations caused a rise in the light transmittance of the films from 2.13 to 4.79 mm−1 and a decrease in water vapour transmittance from 6.77 to 2.12 (10−5 GPa−1 h−1 m−1). At a VCO concentration of 14 wt% (based on potato starch), the tensile strength reached its highest value (19.98 MPa). Scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface of the film became smoother as VCO concentration increased. The addition of VCO inhibited the growth of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In conclusion, VCO supplementation improved the mechanical, antibacterial and water barrier properties of starch‐based films. These results could expand the scope of the application of starch‐based films in food packaging.
Thermal degradation kinetics of carotenoids, vitamin C and provitamin A in tree tomato juice
Authors: Ordóñez‐Santos Luis Eduardo , Martínez‐Girón Jader
Published: June 2019

In this research, the influence of temperature on the degradation of carotenoids, vitamin C and provitamin A in tree tomato juice was studied at 70, 80 and 90 °C. The thermal processing significantly reduced (P < 0.001) the concentration of the bioactive compounds, and the thermal degradation in the evaluated phytochemicals fit a kinetic first order, with the following activation energies (Ea, kJ mol−1): α‐carotene (69.75), β‐carotene (59.50), provitamin A (51.67), zeaxanthin (43.66), vitamin C (41.27), lycopene (18.84) and β‐cryptoxanthin (18.23). The kinetic study and thermodynamic analysis of the tree tomato juice showed that the degree of thermoresistance in the phytonutrients responded in the following order: β‐cryptoxanthin > lycopene > vitamin C > zeaxanthin > provitamin A > β‐carotene > α‐carotene. This study benefits engineering processes interested in the design and optimisation of thermal processes aimed at preserving the nutritional quality of tree tomato juice.
Burning out physical and emotional fatigue: Evaluating the effects of a programme aimed at reducing burnout among mental health nurses
Authors: Alenezi Atallah , McAndrew Sue , Fallon Paul
Published: June 2019

Burnout is a common problem among mental health nurses. High levels of burnout result in job dissatisfaction, rapid turnover of staff, physical and psychological discomfort, and a reduction in the quality of patient care. While there is an abundance of research relating to burnout per se, research regarding the impact of burnout prevention programmes is lacking. This study aimed to measure the effects of a burnout prevention programme on mental health nurses working in Saudi Arabia (SA). A quasi‐experimental design was used to test the effectiveness of a two‐day burnout prevention workshop. The sample consisted of an intervention group (n = 154) and a control group (n = 142). Data collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) measured the effects of the workshop at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month intervals after completion of the programme. Data were analysed using the latest version of SPSS. Means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages were used to describe the sample and levels of burnout. A t‐test, ANOVA, multiple linear regression, and chi‐squared were used to measure the effect of the workshop before and at the three time points after exposure. Findings indicate the programme was effective with a significant reduction being reported 1 month after the intervention. However, although not returning to baseline scores, burnout scores had increased at 6 months. In conclusion, while the overall efficacy of the burnout reduction programme is evident, mental health nurses would benefit from having opportunity to use some of the strategies on a regular basis.
A safe and simple approach to avoid fast junctional rhythm during ablation in patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia
Authors: Tachibana Motomi , Banba Kimikazu , Matsumoto Kensuke , Ohara Minako , Nagase Satoshi
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Fast junctional rhythm (JR) during slow pathway modification for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is a predictor of serious atrioventricular block. This study investigated the boundary to avoid fast JR during ablation with three‐dimensional (3D) electroanatomical mapping in AVNRT patients.

Methods and Results

Participants were 129 consecutive patients with common AVNRT who received anatomical ablation to an antegrade slow pathway at our institution between August 2013 and March 2019. Successfully ablated sites with JR were evaluated in terms of distances and angles in the left and right anterior oblique views (LAO and RAO, respectively) to the proximal His bundle (His) site using 3D mapping. We divided JR by heart rate: JR1 ≥150 bpm and JR2 <150 bpm. Average age was 61 ± 16 years; 41.1% of patients were male. The distance from the most proximal His to the JR1 and JR2 site was not significantly different (11.9 ± 4.4 vs 10.7 ± 4.5 mm, P = .24). JR1 predominantly appeared closer to the left ventricle than JR2 in LAO (110.5 ± 19.1° vs 77.5 ± 18.6°, P < .01), and was more posterior from the proximal His in RAO (30.8% vs 6.8%, P < .01). The vertical line drawn down from the proximal His in the LAO view was a good indicator of JR1 appearance (sensitivity and specificity 84.6% and 81.6%, respectively).

Conclusion

The vertical line drawn down from the proximal His in the LAO view can be employed as a boundary to avoid fast JR during ablation in AVNRT.
European task force on atopic dermatitis position paper: treatment of parental atopic dermatitis during preconception, pregnancy and lactation period
Authors: Vestergaard C. , Wollenberg A. , Barbarot S. , Christen‐Zaech S. , Deleuran M. , Spuls P. , Flohr C. , Trzeciak M. , von Kobyletzki L. , Seneschal J. , Paul C. , Bieber T. , Werfel T. , Fölster‐Holst R. , Darsow U. , Gieler U. , Svensson Å. , Cork M. , Stalder J.‐F. , De Raeve L. , Kunz B. , Simon D. , Chernyshov P. , Hijnen D. , Gelmetti C. , Ring J. , Taieb A. , de Bruin‐Weller M. , Thyssen J.P.
Published: June 2019

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease that affects both children and adults, including a large number of adults of reproductive age. Several guidelines for the treatment of AD exist, yet specific recommendations for the treatment of pregnant or lactating women and for adults planning to have a child are often lacking. This position paper from the European Task force on Atopic Dermatitis (ETFAD) is based on up‐to‐date scientific literature on treating pregnant and lactating women as wells as adults with AD planning to have a child. It is based on the expert opinions of members of the ETFAD and on existing safety data on the proposed treatments, many of which are derived from patients with other inflammatory diseases or from transplantation medicine. For treating future parents, as well as pregnant and lactating women with AD, the use of topical treatments including moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus, antiseptics such as chlorhexidine, octenidine, potassium permanganate and sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is deemed to be safe. Ultraviolet (UV) therapy may also be used. Systemic treatment should be prescribed only after careful consideration. According to the opinion of the ETFAD, treatment should be restricted to systemic corticosteroids and cyclosporine A, and, in selected cases, azathioprine.
Secondary hosts of the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama: Survivorship and preference
Authors: Johnston Nicholas , Stansly Philip A. , Stelinski Lukasz L.
Published: June 2019

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, is the most economically important and difficult to manage citrus pest in Florida due to its role as vector of huanglongbing or citrus greening disease. Spread of the disease is a function of dispersal patterns and thus influenced by availability of suitable hosts. Young leaves of citrus or related plants are required for reproduction, but in their absence, secondary hosts may provide needed resources to enhance survival. Therefore, survivorship on and preference for three abundant weed species was investigated. The suitability of potential secondary host plants Bidens alba (L.), DC, Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacqu.) P. H. Raven, and Eupatorium capillifolium (Lam.) Small was compared to a reproductive host, Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack, in no‐choice tests by assessing survivorship of D. citri adults confined to these plants in cages. Preference was evaluated by choice tests where D. citri adults were released into cages containing all three secondary hosts alone or with M. paniculata. Both B. alba and E. capillifolium increased D. citri survivorship by twofold compared to starvation conditions with only water available. Choice trials revealed no difference in initial selection between true and secondary hosts; however, the true host was favoured over time. This result suggested that hosts were selected initially by sight, and only later by taste and/or smell. While secondary hosts are unable to support reproduction or long‐term survival, these findings establish the ability of D. citri to use secondary hosts that are ubiquitous in Florida citrus groves as temporary reservoirs for food and moisture when ideal host conditions are scarce or absent.
Rapid determination of nitrate in drinking water using ion‐exchange‐enhanced infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Du Xiuke , Ye Song , Dong Daming
Published: June 2019

Infrared spectroscopy is an effective method for the determination of compositions and concentrations of liquids, with advantages of fast response, no‐sampling, flexible in use, and is effective for on‐line monitoring. However, for trace substances in drinking water, such as nitrates and heavy metals, infrared spectroscopy is not sensitive enough for the quantitative and qualitative measurement. In this study, we improved the sensitivity of infrared spectroscopy for nitrite determination by developing an ion‐exchange‐enhanced diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, which consists of an accessory based on ion‐exchange resin for enrichment and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer for measurement. Using this method, the limit of detection for nitrate is 1.7 mg/L, which is enough for drinking water sensing. We also verified the quantitative measurement ability of the method. Furthermore, the limit of detection and quantitative measuring range could be adjusted by changing the mass of resin and adsorption time. This study demonstrated that the method is effective to detect trace nitrites in drinking water, can be applied in the field, and is sensitive, rapid, and inexpensive with a wide dynamic range.

Practical applications

This study demonstrated an ion‐exchange‐enhanced diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, which is effective to quantitatively measure nitrate in drinking water with concentrations within several ppm. Compared with traditional used methods for water nitrate analysis, our method is rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive and is potential for on‐line measurement. The method can be used in drinking water sensing and water processing. By changing the ion‐exchange resin, it is also effective to measure other compositions in water rather than nitrate. It can also be used to determine harmful compositions in drinks. Meanwhile, we developed a smart sensor based on this method, which used an Microelectro Mechanical Systems Fourier transform infrared spectrometer instead of V70 in this study. It is now in the test for the rapid determination of nitrate in drinking water by Water Services Company of Beijing.
Well‐aging: A new strategy for skin homeostasis under multi‐stressed conditions
Authors: De Tollenaere Morgane , Meunier Marie , Scandolera Amandine , Sandre Jérôme , Lambert Carole , Chapuis Emilie , Auriol Daniel , Reynaud Romain
Published: June 2019

Background

Several studies evidenced significant increase of cortisol is the consequence of UV or emotional stress and leads to various deleterious effects in the skin.

Aim

The well‐aging, a new concept of lifestyle, procures an alternative to the anti‐aging strategy. We demonstrated that Tephrosia purpurea extract is able to stimulate well‐being hormones while reducing cortisol release. Furthermore, we hypothesized that the extract could positively influence the global skin homeostasis.

Method

We evaluated the impact of the extract on cortisol, β‐endorphin, and dopamine, released by normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). A gene expression study was realized on NHEKs and NHDFs. The protein over‐expression of HMOX1 and NQO1 was evidenced at cellular and tissue level. Finally, we conducted a clinical study on 21 women living in a polluted environment in order to observe the impact of the active on global skin improvement.

Results

The extract is able to reduce significantly the cortisol release while inducing the production of β‐endorphin and dopamine. The gene expression study revealed that Tephrosia purpurea extract up‐regulated the genes involved in antioxidant response and skin renewal. Moreover, the induction of HMOX and NQO1 expression was confirmed on NHDFs, NHEKs and in RHE. We clinically demonstrated that the extract improved significantly the skin by reducing dark circles, represented by an improvement of L*, a*, and ITA parameters.

Conclusion

Tephrosia purpurea extract has beneficial effects on skin homeostasis through control of the well‐being state and antioxidant defenses leading to an improvement of dark circles, a clinical features particularly impacted by emotional and environmental stress.
What About Money? Earnings, Household Financial Organization, and Housework
Authors: Hu Yang
Published: June 2019

Objective:This research investigates the role played by household financial organization in configuring the housework participation of women and men and in moderating the influence of earnings on housework.

Background:Existing research has focused on the ways in which earnings shape gendered power and housework performance in couple relationships. However, no research has examined how household financial organization intervenes between the receipt of earnings in the labor market and the performance of housework at home.

Method:Two‐stage least squares regressions were used to analyze data from Waves 2 and 4 of the United Kingdom Household Longitudinal Study (N = 6,070 couples).

Results:Management of household finances is associated with an increase in housework time for both men and women, whereas control of household financial decisions reduces men's but not women's housework time. Women's individual earnings reduce their housework time only when they can access these earnings. Men's relative earnings reduce their housework time when they or their partners manage the couple's earnings, but not when partners manage their earnings independently, supporting both resource bargaining theory and gendered resources theory. Women's individual earnings and men's relative earnings reduce their housework time only when they have partial or full control of household financial decisions.

Conclusion:The management and control of household finances influence the time spent by women and men on housework in ways distinct from yet equally as important as those of earnings. Household financial organization is a key premise moderating when and how gender equality in the public sphere helps promulgate gender equality at home.
Melatonin for prevention of placental malperfusion and fetal compromise associated with intrauterine inflammation‐induced oxidative stress in a mouse model
Authors: Lee Ji Yeon , Li Su , Shin Na E. , Na Quan , Dong Jie , Jia Bei , Jones‐Beatty Kimberly , McLane Michael W. , Ozen Maide , Lei Jun , Burd Irina
Published: June 2019

Melatonin has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and mitigate hypercoagulability. We hypothesized that maternally administered melatonin may reduce placental oxidative stress and hypercoagulability associated with exposure to intrauterine inflammation (IUI) and consequently improve fetoplacental blood flow and fetal sequelae. Mice were randomized to the following groups: control (C), melatonin (M), lipopolysaccharide (LPS; a model of IUI) (L), and LPS with melatonin (ML). The expression of antioxidant mediators in the placenta was significantly decreased, while that of pro‐inflammatory mediators was significantly increased in L compared to C and ML. The systolic/diastolic ratio, resistance index, and pulsatility index in uterine artery (UtA) and umbilical artery (UA) were significantly increased in L compared with other groups when analyzed by Doppler ultrasonography. The expression of antioxidant mediators in the placenta was significantly decreased, while that of pro‐inflammatory mediators was significantly increased in L compared to C and ML. Vascular endothelial damage and thrombi formation, as evidenced by fibrin deposits, were similarly increased in L compared to other groups. Maternal pretreatment with melatonin appears to modulate maternal placental malperfusion, fetal cardiovascular compromise, and fetal neuroinflammation induced by IUI through its antioxidant properties.
The impact of camel visitation on native wildlife at remote waterholes in arid Australia
Authors: Brim Box J. , Bledsoe L. , Box P. , Bubb A. , Campbell M. , Edwards G. , Fordyce J.D. , Guest T. , Hodgens P. , Kennedy B. , Kulitja R. , McConnell K. , McDonald P.J. , Miller B. , Mitchell D. , Nano C. , O’Dea D. , Richmond L. , Stricker A.C. , Caron V.
Published: June 2019

Invasive species can impact their new environments in different ways, including through exploitation competition and interference competition. For the past decade we have documented the severe degradation of central Australian waterholes by feral camels. Not surprisingly, large feral herbivores can have profound negative impacts on aquatic biodiversity. Less understood was the extent that feral camels impact on native terrestrial wildlife for access to water. From 2011 to 2013 we used camera traps at six waterholes in central Australia to document the co‐occurrence of feral camels and some native wildlife. We used circular statistics and univariate analyses to evaluate activity budgets, visitation frequency and species co‐occurrence for camels, dingoes and bird species that require daily or regular access to water. When camels were present, birds and dingoes visited waterholes less frequently than on days camels were absent. The daily activity budget of birds shifted when camels and dingoes were present, and dingo activity shifted when camels were present. Although the temporal overlap of camels and birds was low, it was not less than expected by chance. Our data suggest that feral camels are the superior resource exploiter at these arid waterholes and reduce wildlife visitation and alter activity budgets. It remains to be tested whether this translates to longer‐term impacts on native birds and dingoes.
Should I stay or should I go? Pollinator shifts rather than cospeciation dominate the evolutionary history of South African Rediviva bees and their Diascia host plants
Authors: Kahnt Belinda , Hattingh Wesley N. , Theodorou Panagiotis , Wieseke Nicolas , Kuhlmann Michael , Glennon Kelsey L. , van der Niet Timotheüs , Paxton Robert , Cron Glynis V.
Published: June 2019

Plant–pollinator interactions are often highly specialised, which may be a consequence of co‐evolution. Yet when plants and pollinators co‐evolve, it is not clear if this will also result in frequent cospeciation. Here, we investigate the mutual evolutionary history of South African oil‐collecting Rediviva bees and their Diascia host plants, in which the elongated forelegs of female Rediviva have been suggested to coevolve with the oil‐producing spurs of their Diascia hosts. After controlling for phylogenetic nonindependence, we found Rediviva foreleg length to be significantly correlated with Diascia spur length, suggestive of co‐evolution. However, as trait correlation could also be due to pollinator shifts, we tested if cospeciation or pollinator shifts have dominated the evolution of Rediviva–Diascia interactions by analysing phylogenies in a cophylogenetic framework. Distance‐based cophylogenetic analyses (PARAFIT, PACo) indicated significant congruence of the two phylogenies under most conditions. Yet, we found that phylogenetic relatedness was correlated with ecological similarity (the spectrum of partners that each taxon interacted with) only for Diascia but not for Rediviva, suggesting that phylogenetic congruence might be due to phylogenetic tracking by Diascia of Rediviva rather than strict (reciprocal) co‐evolution. Furthermore, event‐based reconciliation using a parsimony approach (CORE‐PA) on average revealed only 11–13 cospeciation events but 58–80 pollinator shifts. Probabilistic cophylogenetic analyses (COALA) supported this trend (8–29 cospeciations vs. 40 pollinator shifts). Our study suggests that diversification of Diascia has been largely driven by Rediviva (phylogenetic tracking, pollinator shifts) but not vice versa. Moreover, our data suggest that, even in co‐evolving mutualisms, cospeciation events might occur only infrequently.
Female‐specific gene regulation in malaria parasites by an AP2‐family transcription factor
Authors: Yuda Masao , Kaneko Izumi , Iwanaga Shiroh , Murata Yuho , Kato Tomomi
Published: June 2019

The malaria gametocyte, the gamete precursor, is the essential stage for malaria transmission to the mosquito vector. In the vertebrate host's blood, it develops into a mature male or female capable of transforming into a gamete in the mosquito blood meal. Despite the importance of this stage in the malaria life cycle, the genetic regulation of gametocyte development is poorly understood. In particular, transcription factors involved in sex‐specific gene expression have not been identified. In this paper, we report that an AP2‐family transcription factor, AP2‐FG, is responsible for female‐specific gene regulation. AP2‐FG expression in Plasmodium berghei was observed exclusively in female gametocytes, in the beginning of 4–6 h before sexual dimorphism manifests in developing gametocytes. AP2‐FG disruption resulted in the arrest of female maturation, but did not affect the development of males. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analysis suggested that AP2‐FG directly regulates over 700 genes. Its targets include genes for female gametocyte‐specific functions, such as gametogenesis, fertilization and zygote development. AP2‐FG binding to target gene promoters was associated with a 10 bp sequence motif. These results indicate that AP2‐FG plays a role in the differentiation of early gametocytes to mature females by governing a female‐specific gene expression repertoire.
The utility of longitudinal slicing method for rectal specimen: pathological analysis of circumferential resection margin of intersphincteric resection for low‐lying rectal cancer
Authors: Matsunaga Rie , Kojima Motohiro , Nishizawa Yuji , Yokota Mitsuru , Hasegawa Hiro , Saito Norio , Ito Masaaki , Ochiai Atsushi
Published: June 2019

The pathological assessment of the resection margin of rectal cancer is important to predict clinical outcome. The transverse slicing method of rectal specimens is recommended in Western countries. However, in Japan the longitudinal slicing method is traditionally advocated. The aim of this study was to assess the advantages of the longitudinal slicing method. The subjects were 197 consecutive patients with primary rectal cancer who underwent curative intersphincteric resection from 2000 to 2013. The resected rectal specimens were cut into 12 slices in the direction of the long axis. Resection margin was considered positive when it was less than or equal to 1 mm. Resection margin was positive in 23 patients (12%). They were classified into two groups, namely the DEEP group (n = 16, 70%), when the resection margin corresponded to the deepest tumor invasion area, and the ENTRY group (n = 7, 30%), when resection margin was around the initial cutting point of the anal canal. It was shown that resection margin tends to be positive not only in the deepest tumor invasion area but also in the entry area of the anal canal. The longitudinal slicing method may have some advantages for accurate assessment of resection margin especially in low‐lying rectal cancer.
The “Science” of Policy Development During Administrative Rulemaking
Authors: Yackee Susan Webb
Published: June 2019

The legitimacy of government agencies rests in part on the premise that public administrators use scientific evidence to make policy decisions. Yet, what happens when there is no consensus in the scientific evidence—i.e., when the science is in conflict? I theorize that scientific conflict yields greater policy change during administrative policymaking. I assess this claim using data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). I identify policy change—what I refer to as “policy development” in this article—between the FDA's draft and final rules with a novel text analysis measure of shifts in regulatory restrictions. I then go on to find that more policy development does occur with scientific conflict. Moreover, using corresponding survey data, I uncover suggestive evidence that one beneficiary of such conflict may be participating interest groups. Groups lobby harder—and attempt to change more of the rule—during conflict, while an in‐survey experiment provides evidence of increased interest group influence on rule content when scientific conflict is high.
Interoceptive accuracy is related to long‐term stress via self‐regulation
Authors: Schultchen Dana , Bayer Julia , Kühnel Jana , Melchers Klaus G. , Pollatos Olga
Published: June 2019

Interoception describes the ability to perceive internal bodily signals. Previous research found a relationship between interoceptive accuracy (IAcc) and cardiovascular outcomes during or after acute stress. So far, the association between IAcc and long‐term stress has not been investigated, although this would be important to identify a starting point to prevent long‐term stress. To address this idea in the current study, we examined the relationship between IAcc and long‐term stress, which was assessed with different questionnaires and biological markers, including cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Furthermore, we investigated self‐regulation as a mechanism linking IAcc to long‐term stress. The sample consisted of 98 participants. To measure IAcc, participants completed the heartbeat perception task. Perceived long‐term stress and self‐regulation were assessed via an online questionnaire. Moreover, hair samples were taken from 65 participants to determine long‐term stress with cortisol and DHEA as well as the ratio of both. Results showed that IAcc was positively related to DHEA and weakly negatively related to the other indicators of long‐term stress, except for the nonsignificant relationships to the indicators cortisol and stress experiences due to negative events. Furthermore, these relationships were mediated by participants' enhanced self‐regulation. Thus, our results suggest that enhanced self‐regulation could be a mechanism explaining why IAcc is associated with long‐term stress.
Identification of HLA‐A*31:150 by next‐generation sequencing in a Chinese Han individual
Authors: Liang Si‐Zhe , Quan Zhan‐Rou , Hong Wen‐Xu , Zou Hong‐Yan
Published: June 2019

HLA‐A*31:150 differs from HLA‐A*31:01:02:01 in exon 2 by a single nucleotide.
The Mnemonic Consequences of Jurors’ Selective Retrieval During Deliberation
Authors: Jay Alexander C. V. , Stone Charles B. , Meksin Robert , Merck Clinton , Gordon Natalie S. , Hirst William
Published: June 2019

The jury is a defining component of the American criminal justice system, and the courts largely assume that the collaborative nature of jury deliberations will enhance jurors’ memory for important trial information. However, research suggests that this kind of collaboration, although sometimes improving memory, can also lead to incomplete and inaccurate “collective” memories. The present research examines whether jury deliberations, where individuals collaboratively recall and discuss trial evidence to render unanimous verdicts, might shape jurors’ memories through the robust phenomena of Within‐Individual and Socially Shared Retrieval‐Induced Forgetting (WI‐RIF and SS‐RIF, respectively). The results revealed no WI‐RIF or SS‐RIF. However, we did find evidence in the direction of Within‐Individual and Socially‐shared Retrieval Induced Facilitation (WI‐RIFA and SS‐RIFA, respectively) in speakers’ and listeners’ narrative and open‐ended recall of evidentiary details. The present results are discussed in terms of whether jurors’ goals during deliberation and the deliberation structure (e.g., six or more discussants) protect against forgetting, or whether possible methodological issues (e.g., the vast amount of information presented) eliminated WI‐RIF and SS‐RIF and, in turn, make drawing conclusions surrounding the mnemonic impact of jury deliberation difficult. Regardless, the present results suggest jury deliberations are quite limited in terms of how much evidence is actually discussed compared to the total of what could be discussed, and our methodology provides an ecologically valid baseline for future research to better understand the mnemonic consequences associated with jury deliberations and, in turn, jury decision making.
Impacts of Climate Change Induced Migration on Gender: A Qualitative Study from the Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Sams Ishita Shahid
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study is to explore the gender variation of the impact of climate change induced migration. This paper highlights the gender dimensions of climate change induced migration where gender is a vital element for determining vulnerability to climate change which influences the subsequent migration. Actually, the impacts of climate change induced natural disasters are not gender neutral because the experiences, needs and priorities of the climate migrants are varied by gender roles and position. In this research, we explore the socioeconomic impacts of the climate migrants on gender from the evidence of the southwest coastal women and men of Bangladesh. The qualitative data were collected from the cyclone-affected migrants who were migrated internally from the disaster-prone southwest coastal region and lived in the city slums of Khulna in Bangladesh. This study is described the gender differentiation between women and men in case of climate change induced migration according to social, economical, ecological, organizational, occupational, educational and physical aspects which tend to be highly gendered. The study results show that among climate migrants, women are more vulnerable than men due to their socioeconomic condition and gender discrimination in the patriarchal society of Bangladesh who are likely to be poorer, less educated, have a lower social status and have limited access to and control over natural resources.
Crime Analysis and Conventional Policing Strategies: Evidence from a Community in the Western Region, Ghana
Authors: Azumah Francess Dufie , Nachinaab John Onzaberigu , Sintim Charles Danso , Krampah Samuel
Published: June 2019

The study investigated the application of crime analysis at various police stations within the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality in the Western Region of Ghana with the objective of understanding crime, crime analysis, crime control and crime information management and their implications on conventional policing strategies. Qualitative and quantitative research adopting the questionnaire and interview were conducted with crime analysts and specialized investigators/intelligence analysts through descriptive and explorative research design. The study had a dual purpose of generating operational crime management information in assisting crime prevention initiatives as well as identifying the strengths and weaknesses of current practices for improving performance, mainly focusing on the criminal activities of group offenders (organized crime related), repeat offenders and serial offenders.
Beyond Nature and Subjectivity——The Issues of Space in Nathaniel Hawthorne' s The Scarlet Letter
Authors: Mei Xiaohan
Published: June 2019

In Nathaniel Hawthorne' s literary creation, the usages of space are usually highlighted by Hawthorne' s arrangement of the settings, scenes and social background. In The Scarlet Letter, according to the spatial turn in 20th spatial theories—especially the spatial theory of Lefebvre, Nathaniel Hawthorne constructed three spaces in this romance novel: the material space, spiritual space and social space. These three kinds of space are not simply juxtaposed, but are intervening, intermingling, superimposing each other, and sometimes even contradicting each other. It is through the construction of space that Hawthorne combines serious moral content with excellent artistic expressions, giving The Scarlet Letter its powerful vitality and enduring charm. It is also through the construction of space that the theme and meaning of the novel about the human spiritual ecological crisis is better manifested, and shows Hawthorne's contemplation and transcendence of the real world. In the process of interpreting the space construction of The Scarlet Letter, readers can appreciate the narrative techniques and artistic effects of the text, and then examine the social reality that the novel should express.
The Effect of Cyclic Strain on Human Fibroblasts With Lamin A/C Mutations and Its Relation to Heart Disease
Authors: Tran Richard D. H. , Siemens Mark , Nguyen Cecilia H. H. , Ochs Alexander R. , Zaragoza Michael V. , Grosberg Anna
Published: June 2019

Although mutations in the Lamin A/C gene (LMNA) cause a variety of devastating diseases, the pathological mechanism is often unknown. Lamin A/C proteins play a crucial role in forming a meshwork under the nuclear membrane, providing the nucleus with mechanical integrity and interacting with other proteins for gene regulation. Most LMNA mutations result in heart diseases, including some types that primarily have heart disease as the main pathology. In this study, we used cells from patients with different LMNA mutations that primarily lead to heart disease. Indeed, it is a mystery why a mutation to the protein in every nucleus of the body manifests as a disease of primarily the heart in these patients. Here, we aimed to investigate if strains mimicking those within the myocardial environment are sufficient to cause differences in cells with and without the LMNA mutation. To test this, a stretcher device was used to induce cyclic strain upon cells, and viability/proliferation, cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix organization, and nuclear morphology were quantified. The properties of cells with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) were found to be significantly different from all other cell lines and were mostly in line with previous findings. However, the properties of cells from patients who primarily had heart diseases were not drastically different when compared to individuals without the LMNA mutation. Our results indicated that cyclic strain alone was insufficient to cause any significant differences that could explain the mechanisms that lead to heart diseases in these patients with LMNA mutations.
Hydrogel-Shielded Soft Tactile Sensor for Biocompatible Drug Delivery Monitoring
Authors: Banerjee Hritwick , Ponraj Godwin , Kirthika Senthil Kumar , Suman Malapaka Venkata , Lim Chwee Ming , Ren Hongliang
Published: June 2019

Tactile sensing is an emerging technological advancement in surgical robotics in order to probe interactions between confined tissue environments and instruments based on touch information. The tactile sense can assist in improving the efficiency of the whole practice and hence enhance precision, control, and safety during surgery. This paper demonstrates a distinct proof-of-concept therapeutic device equipped with a soft tactile sensor. The tactile sensor was custom-made using flexible piezoresistive materials and conductive ink, wrapped with a biocompatible hydrogel polymer matrix for safer human–tissue interactions. The proposed tactile sensor was then calibrated and its performance was compared with gold standard sensors. It was further tested with a continuous force (5 N) for an extended period of time (about 6 h) to address robustness and repeatability. The sensor showed a sensitivity of 0.833 N−1 and a drift of ≤1%. Successful cadaver experiment demonstrates the efficiency of tactile sensing assistance to clinicians.
Passive broadband source localization based on a Riemannian distance with a short vertical array in the deep ocean
Authors: Cao Ran , Yang Kunde , Ma Yuanliang , Yang Qiulong , Shi Yang
Published: June 2019

A passive broadband source localization approach in the deep ocean is proposed based on the coherent matched-field processing combined with a Riemannian distance. The spatial coherence between hydrophones over frequency bandwidth is utilized for eliminating the unknown source spectrum. Three Riemannian distances are introduced for the measurement of the similarity between the data and replica matrices. The experimental results indicate that the proposed processors with a short array can effectively suppress the sidelobe and improve the localization performance. The source localization influenced by the factors such as the aperture, number of hydrophones, and desired bandwidth is also demonstrated.
Microbial Dynamics of Biosand Filters and Contributions of the Microbial Food Web to Effective Treatment of Wastewater-Impacted Water Sources
Authors: Webster Tara M. , Fierer Noah
Published: June 2019

Although microbial activities are known to contribute to the effectiveness of biosand filtration for drinking water treatment, we have a limited understanding of what microbial groups are most effectively removed, colonize the sand, or make it through the filter. This study tracked the microbial communities in the influent, sand, and effluent of lab-scale, intermittently operated biosand filters over 8 weeks. These results represent the most detailed and time-resolved investigation of the microbial communities in biosand filters typical of those implemented at the household level in many developing countries. We show the importance of the microbial food web in biosand filtration, and we identified taxa that are preferentially removed from wastewater-impacted water sources. We found consistent patterns in filter effectiveness from source waters with differing nutrient loads and, likewise, identified specific bacterial taxa that were consistently more abundant in effluent waters, taxa that are important targets for further study and posttreatment.
Adaptive Mutations in Replicase Transmembrane Subunits Can Counteract Inhibition of Equine Arteritis Virus RNA Synthesis by Cyclophilin Inhibitors
Authors: de Wilde Adriaan H. , Boomaars-van der Zanden A. Linda , de Jong Anja W. M. , Bárcena Montserrat , Snijder Eric J. , Posthuma Clara C.
Published: June 2019

Currently, no approved treatments are available to combat infections with nidoviruses, a group of positive-stranded RNA viruses, including important zoonotic and veterinary pathogens. Previously, the cyclophilin inhibitors cyclosporine (CsA) and alisporivir (ALV) were shown to inhibit the replication of diverse nidoviruses (both arteriviruses and coronaviruses), and they may thus represent a class of pan-nidovirus inhibitors. In this study, using the arterivirus prototype equine arteritis virus, we have established that resistance to CsA and ALV treatment is associated with adaptive mutations in two transmembrane subunits of the viral replication machinery, nonstructural proteins 2 and 5. This is the first evidence for the involvement of specific replicase subunits of arteriviruses in the mechanism underlying the inhibition of their replication by cyclophilin inhibitors. Understanding this mechanism of action is of major importance to guide future drug design, both for nidoviruses and for other RNA viruses inhibited by these compounds.
A Zoonotic Adenoviral Human Pathogen Emerged through Genomic Recombination among Human and Nonhuman Simian Hosts
Authors: Dehghan Shoaleh , Seto Jason , Liu Elizabeth B. , Ismail Ashrafali M. , Madupu Ramana , Heim Albert , Jones Morris S. , Dyer David W. , Chodosh James , Seto Donald
Published: June 2019

An emergent adenoviral human pathogen, HAdV-B76, associated with a fatality in 1965, shows a remarkable degree of genome identity with two recently isolated simian adenoviruses that contain cross-species genome recombination events from three hosts: human, chimpanzee, and bonobo. Zoonosis (nonhuman-to-human transmission) and anthroponosis (human to nonhuman transmission) may play significant roles in the emergence of human adenoviral pathogens.
Kingella kingae Surface Polysaccharides Promote Resistance to Neutrophil Phagocytosis and Killing
Authors: Muñoz Vanessa L. , Porsch Eric A. , St. Geme Joseph W.
Published: June 2019

Kingella kingaeis a Gram-negative commensal in the oropharynx and represents a leading cause of joint and bone infections in young children. The mechanisms by whichK. kingaeevades host innate immunity during pathogenesis of disease remain poorly understood. In this study, we established that theK. kingaepolysaccharide capsule and exopolysaccharide function independently to protectK. kingaeagainst reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, neutrophil phagocytosis, and antimicrobial peptides. These results demonstrate the intricacies ofK. kingaeinnate immune evasion and provide valuable information that may facilitate development of a polysaccharide-based vaccine againstK. kingae.
Electronic Health Informatics Data To Describe Clearance Dynamics of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) and e Antigen (HBeAg) in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Downs Louise O. , Smith David A. , Lumley Sheila F. , Patel Meha , McNaughton Anna L. , Mokaya Jolynne , Ansari M. Azim , Salih Hizni , Várnai Kinga A. , Freeman Oliver , Cripps Sarah , Phillips Jane , Collier Jane , Woods Kerrie , Channon Keith , Davies Jim , Barnes Eleanor , Jeffery Katie , Matthews Philippa C.
Published: June 2019

Advances in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are urgently required if we are to meet international targets for elimination by the year 2030. Here we demonstrate how routine clinical data can be harnessed through an unbiased electronic pipeline, showcasing the significant potential for amassing large clinical data sets that can help to inform advances in patient care and provide insights that may help to inform new cure strategies. Our cohort from a large UK hospital includes adults from diverse ethnic groups that have previously been underrepresented in the literature. By tracking two protein biomarkers that are used to monitor chronic HBV infection, we provide new insights into the timelines of HBV clearance, both on and off treatment. These results contribute to improvements in individualized clinical care and may provide important clues into the immune events that underpin disease control.