bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted awareness: promoting niche resources using confirmation emails
Authors: Rennick Brian , Camacho Leticia , Spackman Andy
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of a targeted email advertising method that informs university students about library resources relevant to their major.

Design/methodology/approach

Over the course of one semester, students with business and communications majors who reserved group study rooms received customized confirmation emails that included targeted advertisements for library databases. These advertisements invited students to click a link that led to a database related to a student's major. Near the end of the semester, students were invited to complete a short survey about the advertisements. Survey questions were designed to discover whether the advertisements were seen and to measure database relevancy. The survey also gathered participant perceptions about the value of this targeted awareness advertising approach.

Findings

Overall, the technique of appending database advertisements to reservation emails proved ineffective; very few students recalled seeing the advertisements or clicking the links. On the positive side, this study showed that very few of the survey respondents disapproved of receiving advertisements. Another positive result was that a majority indicated the selected library databases were relevant to their needs. Respondents also offered suggestions for improving this marketing technique.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel, unobtrusive approach to advertising library resources to a targeted audience. The results can be used by library administrators as a starting point for experimenting with similar (yet improved) methods of sharing information about relevant library resources with specific user populations.
Elevated circulating luteinizing hormone levels are associated with diabetic macroalbuminuria in Chinese men and postmenopausal women: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhou Yue , Shen Liyan , Dong Bingzi , Liu Chuanfeng , Lv Wenshan , Chi Jingwei , Che Kui , Gao Yanyan , Wang Yunyang , Wang Yangang
Published: May 2020

Background

Associations between sex hormones and diabetic vascular complications have recently been studied, but the role luteinizing hormone (LH) plays in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains uncertain. We aimed to investigate the relationship of LH and DKD in Chinese men and postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Data were collected from 1775 T2DM men and postmenopausal women in hospital. The odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) in relation to LH quartiles were obtained by multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

LH levels were significantly higher in patients with macroalbuminuria than in those with microalbuminuria, but were not higher in patients with microalbuminuria than in those with normoalbuminuria. Consistently, LH in those with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73m2 were significantly higher than in those with eGFR≥60 mL/min/1.73m2. The prevalence of macroalbuminuria was obviously increased for subjects of the fourth quartile of LH vs the first to third quartile (20.4% vs 6.2%, 8.0%, 12.2% in men; 25.3% vs 5.5%, 3.8%, 9.3% in postmenopausal women). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that subjects within the highest quartile of LH had higher odds of macroalbuminuria than those within the lowest quartile (OR 4.00, 95% CI, 1.87‐8.55 for men; OR 9.62, 95% CI, 3.42‐27.08 for postmenopausal women), independent of age, diabetes duration, or other metabolic factors. The area under the curve for detecting macroalbuminuria based on LH was 0.662 for men, and 0.767 for postmenopausal women.

Conclusion

High LH levels are positively associated with established DKD among Chinese men and postmenopausal women. Elevated LH may be a promising clinical factor for identifying established DKD.
Null models for animal social network analysis and data collected via focal sampling: Pre‐network or node network permutation?
Authors: Puga‐Gonzalez Ivan , Sueur Cédric , Sosa Sebastian
Published: May 2020

In social networks analysis, two different approaches have predominated in creating null models for hypothesis testing, namely pre‐network and node network permutation approaches. Although the pre‐network permutation approach appears more advantageous, its use has mainly been restricted to data on associations and sampling methods such as ‘group follows’.

The pre‐network permutation approach has recently been adapted to data on interactions and the focal sampling method, but its performance in different scenarios has not been thoroughly explored. Here, we assessed the performance of the pre‐network and node network permutation approach in several simulated scenarios based on proneness to false positive or false negatives and with or without observation bias.

Our results showed that the pre‐network permutation was sensitive to false positives in scenarios with or without observation bias. The node network permutation approach produced fewer false positives and negatives than the pre‐network approach, but only in scenarios without observation bias. In scenarios with observation bias, the node network permutation approach was outperformed by pre‐network permutation.

Caution should be taken when using the pre‐network and node network permutations to create null models with data collected via focal sampling. This study provides future methodological research perspectives for social network analyses.
Evaluation of the proposed anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor encephalitis clinical diagnostic criteria in psychiatric patients
Authors: Warren N. , O'Gorman C. , Blum S. , Kisely S. , Swayne A. , Flavell J. , Siskind D.
Published: May 2020

Objective

The gold standard for diagnosing anti‐NMDAR encephalitis is demonstration of the antibody in CSF. Clinical diagnostic criteria have been proposed for when this is not available in a timely manner which is evaluated, in this study, for a psychiatric population.

Methods

This study retrospectively assessed the proposed criteria in patients presenting to psychiatric services for the first time with known anti‐NMDAR antibody status. Antibody‐positive cases were derived from the literature (conception to December 2019) and a state‐wide (Queensland, Australia) cohort. Antibody‐negative cases were derived from a service‐wide (Metro South, Queensland, Australia) cohort of psychiatric cases which underwent antibody testing for routine organic screening. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated at 1 week following admission and the point of discharge.

Results

The proposed criteria were applied to 641 cases (500 antibody‐positive and 141 antibody‐negative), demonstrating a sensitivity which increased from around 19% after 1 week to 49% by the point of discharge. Specificity was 100% at both time points. The mean average time to become positive using the proposed criteria was 19.5 days compared to 34.9 days for return of antibody testing.

Conclusions

High specificity of the proposed criteria, seen in this study, suggests that cases which are positive can be considered for expedited commencement of treatment. However, if clinical suspicion is high despite criteria being negative, it is essential to test CSF for anti‐NMDAR antibody.
Understanding electroconvulsive therapy‐related anxiety: a prospective study
Authors: Obbels J. , Vansteelandt K. , Verwijk E. , Lambrichts S. , Bouckaert F. , Sienaert P.
Published: May 2020

Aims of study

Although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)‐related anxiety is experienced by a significant proportion of patients, it remains understudied. Our aim was to study the course of ECT‐related anxiety during ECT.

Methods

Seventy‐four patients with unipolar or bipolar depression, referred for ECT, were included. ECT‐related anxiety was assessed the morning before each ECT session using the ECT‐related Anxiety Questionnaire (ERAQ).

Results

Female patients reported more anxiety than men (F(1,64.6) = 3.95, P = 0.05). Patients with a psychotic depression were more anxious before the start of ECT (F(64.8) = 4.57, P = 0.04), but experienced a significant decrease in ECT‐related anxiety (t(63.9) = −3.63, P = 0.0006), whereas patients with a non‐psychotic depression remained stable on anxiety during their ECT course (t(63,9) = 0.76, P = 0.45). In addition, we found a significant correlation between the decrease of ECT‐related anxiety and the decrease of depression‐severity (r = 0.35; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

There are individual differences in ECT‐related anxiety trajectories during ECT. Both female patients and patients with psychotic depression experienced more ECT‐related anxiety before the start of ECT. The severity of ECT‐related anxiety decreased significantly in patients with a psychotic depression, but remained stable in patients without a psychotic depression during ECT. In addition, patients who showed a stronger decrease in depression‐severity also showed a stronger decrease in ECT‐related anxiety. A better understanding of ECT‐related anxiety trajectories can help in designing anxiety‐reducing interventions.
Structured Observation of Motor Performance in Infants: Level and quality associated with later motor development
Authors: Montgomery Cecilia , F. Kaul Ylva , Strand Brodd Katarina , Persson Kristina , Hellström‐Westas Lena
Published: May 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the level of motor development and the quality of motor performance during the first 10 months in relation to the Bayley Scales of Infant Development—third edition (Bayley‐III) motor index at 2.5 years.

Methods

Children born very preterm from a population‐based study (n = 113) were assessed with the Structured Observation of Motor Performance in Infants (SOMP‐I) at 2, 4, 6 and 10 months corrected age and the Bayley‐III motor index at 2.5 years corrected age (n = 98). Logistic regressions were performed to investigate the independent association of each SOMP‐I domain to Bayley‐III motor index.

Results

There were significant associations between the SOMP‐I‐scores and Bayley‐III motor index per every assessment age. At 4 months, both level and quality were independently associated with a later motor outcome, OR for level was 1.26 (95% CI = 1.08‐1.50, P = .002) and for quality, 0.75 (95% CI = 0.63‐0.90, P = .002). Quality was independently associated with the Bayley‐III motor index at 6 and 10 months: OR 0.080 (95% CI = 0.67‐0.95 P = .010) and 0.79 (95% CI = 0.64‐0.97, P = .026).

Conclusion

Both SOMP‐I domains, level and quality, are markers to identify motor problems early. Quality became more important with age.
The clinical features and predictive factors of nocturnal enuresis in adult men
Authors: Song Qi‐Xiang , Wang Lei , Cheng Xin , Hao Yiru , Liu Zhiyong , Abrams Paul
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To characterise the clinical features and to discover predictive factors of adult males with nocturnal enuresis (NE).

Patients and Methods

A total of 43 eligible adult male patients (mean age was 57.8 years) were recruited prospectively over a 2‐year period. After documentation of medical history, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire‐male LUTS (ICIQ‐MLUTS), and a 3‐day ICIQ‐bladder diary (ICIQ‐BD). Video‐urodynamic studies (VUDS) were conducted conforming to the International Continence Society standards. Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were performed to determine potential predictive factors.

Results

Patients with NE had a variety of LUTS and had a high incidence of obesity and comorbidities. On the ICIQ‐BD, NE was associated with nocturnal polyuria (NP), reduced nocturnal bladder capacity (NBC), or a combination of both. Subgroup analysis indicated that patients with more frequent NE had: higher body mass index (BMI); more comorbidities; reduced daytime urinary frequency and urgency quality of life (QoL) sub‐scores; and increased stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and nocturnal bedwetting sub‐scores. Patients with reduced NBC only, had fewer NE episodes, while patients with NP, or with both NP and reduced NBC were more likely have frequent NE. Multivariate analysis confirmed that: BMI; neurogenic causes; sub‐scores of SUI QoL and bedwetting domain; the presence of reduced NBC, and both NP and reduced NBC; and bladder outlet obstruction, were all independent predictive factors for the severity of NE.

Conclusions

NE n the adult male should be systemically assessed and treated, as obesity, neurogenic disorders, excessive urine production, bladder storage and emptying dysfunctions are risk factors. Bladder diaries and VUDS provide valuable information on potential pathophysiological causes, which could assist clinical evaluation and selection of focussed treatment.
HBV-specific CD8 T cells present higher TNF-α expression but lower cytotoxicity in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhao L , Jin Y , Yang C , Li C
Published: May 2020

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α is largely regarded as a proinflammatory cytokine, but several recent researches have demonstrated that TNF-α could possess immunoregulatory roles with potential to suppress anti-tumor immunity. Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and HBV-specific CD8 T cells could exert anti-tumor roles in HCC patients. Here, we found that HBV-specific CD8 T cells, both in the peripheral blood and in the tumor microenvironment, were more enriched with TNF-α-expressing cells than interferon (IFN)-γ-expressing cells. Compared to IFN-γ-expressing HBV-specific CD8 T cells, TNF-α-expressing HBV-specific CD8 T cells presented lower expression of inhibitory checkpoint molecules, including programmed cell death (PD)-1, T cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (TIM-3) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen (CTLA)-4. HBV-specific CD8 T cells could mediate the lysis of autologous primary tumor cells, and the inhibition of TNF-α could further elevate their cytotoxic capacity. Subsequently, we demonstrated that TNF-α inhibition in HBV-specific CD8 T cells could significantly increase granzyme B (GZMB) and perforin 1 (PRF1) expression while having no effect towards granzyme A (GZMA) expression. The addition of exogenous TNF-α at low levels had no consistent effect on the expression of GZMA, GZMB and PRF1, but at higher levels, exogenous TNF-α significantly reduced GZMA, GZMB and PRF1 expression. Overall, these results suggested that TNF-α-expressing cells probably presented a deleterious role in HCC but were enriched in HBV-specific CD8 T cells.
Art in my world: Exploring the visual art experiences in the everyday lives of young children and their impact on cultural capital
Authors: Robb Anna , Jindal‐Snape Divya , Levy Susan
Published: May 2020

This paper presents data from a unique longitudinal study exploring the visual art experiences of nine children in two Scottish primary schools. Using a theoretical lens of cultural capital, the study is focused on spaces where children experience visual art and the value of these experiences, using arts‐informed, visual methods. While each child presented a particular insight, the findings question the value of current school visual art experience over other spaces. The findings also demonstrate the capacity of children to resist the control of cultural capital by adults, engaging with visual art on their own terms.
Young people, emotional suspicion and the emergence of paediatric selfhood in Palestine
Authors: Stryker Rachael
Published: May 2020

This paper explores young people's relationships to emotions and mental health care in Ramallah, Palestine. Palestinian young people—via public anger, sadness, or even joy—are often marked as emotionally other in familial, institutional and other public spaces as part of NGO‐driven constructions of emerging paediatric selfhood. In response, they reproduce and/or reframe notions of emotional suspicion that underwrite these marginalizing processes. Thinking along such axes as possibility and impossibility; mobility and immobility; and the local and international, they simultaneously integrate and resist representational subjection, which is an important part of understanding broader post‐Oslo Palestinian identity and community formation.
Adaptation to SARS‐CoV‐2 under stress: Role of distorted information
Authors: Sharov Konstantin S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Since the time of global SARS‐CoV‐2 spread across the earth in February 2020, most of countries faced the problem of massive stress of their healthcare systems. In many cases, the structural stress was a result of incorrect allocation of medical care resources. In turn, this misallocation resulted from fear and apprehensions that superseded thorough calculations. A key role in exacerbating the healthcare sector overburdening was played by misleading information on the virus and disease caused by it. In the current paper, we study the situation in Russian healthcare system and advance recommendations how to avoid further crises.

Materials and methods

(a) Surveying the medical personnel (231 doctors, 317 nurses and 355 ambulance medical workers of lower levels) in five hospitals and six ambulance centres in Moscow. (b) Content analysis of 3164 accounts in Russian segment of social networks (VKontakte, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Odnoklassniki); official and unofficial media (TV, informational webpages).

Results

We revealed positive‐feedback loop that threatened the sustainability of Russian care sector. The main knot was occupied by incorrect/exaggerated media coverage of COVID‐19. General public scared by misinformation in media and social networks, started to panic. This negative social background undermined the productivity of a significant part of medical workers who were afraid of COVID‐19 patients.

Conclusions

The most serious problems of Russian healthcare sector related to COVID‐19 pandemic, were informational problems. The exaggerated information on COVID‐19 had big negative influence upon Russian society and healthcare system, despite SARS‐CoV‐2 relatively low epidemiological hazard.
Haemodynamics of an iatrogenic atrial septal defect after MitraClip implantation
Authors: Eden Matthias , Leeb Leonhard , Frey Norbert , Rosenberg Mark
Published: May 2020

Background

The MitraClip procedure requires transseptal access of the left atrium with a 24F guiding sheath. We evaluated invasively whether a MitraClip induced iatrogenic atrial septal defect (IASD) leads to development of a relevant interatrial shunt and right ventricular overload.

Methods

A total of 69 patients who underwent a MitraClip procedure due to a severe mitral valve regurgitation (MVR) were included in the observational, retrospective cohort study. All pressures were directly measured throughout the procedure. Cardiac index (CI), systemic (Qs) and pulmonary (Qp) flow were calculated using the Fick method.

Results

Successful MitraClip implantation increased CI (2.5 ± 0.62 vs 3.05 ± 0.77 L/min/m2; P < .0001), whereas SVR (1491 ± 474 vs 997 ± 301 dyn s/cm5; P < .0001), PVR (226 ± 121 vs 188 ± 96 dyn/s/cm5; P = .04), PCWP (23 ± 6.1 vs 20 ± 4.7 mm Hg; P = .0031), PA pressure (33.6 ± 7.2 vs 31.9 ± 6.6 mm Hg; P = .1437) and LA pressure (21.5 ± 5.4 vs 18.7 ± 4.9 mm Hg; P < .0001) all decreased. The effect on LA pressure was further enhanced by guiding catheter retrieval (14.4 ± 4.6 mm Hg; P < .0001). At the end of the procedure, Qp (6.033 ± 1.3 L/min) exceeded Qs (5.537 ± 1.3 L/min) by 0.496 L/min leading to a Qp:Qs ratio of 1.09 (P = .007). After 6 months, echocardiography revealed no changes in RV diameter (42.96 ± 6.95 mm vs 43.81 ± 7.67 mm; P = .62) and TAPSE (17.13 ± 3.33 mm vs 17.36 ± 3.24 mm; P = .48).

Conclusion

Our data show that the MitraClip procedure does not induce a relevant interatrial shunt or right ventricular overload. In fact, future studies will have to show whether the IASD may even be beneficial in selected patient populations by left atrial volume and pressure relief.
A mendelian randomization analysis: The causal association between serum uric acid and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hong Myunghee , Park Je‐Wook , Yang Pil‐Sung , Hwang Inseok , Kim Tae‐Hoon , Yu Hee Tae , Uhm Jae‐Sun , Joung Boyoung , Lee Moon‐Hyoung , Jee Sun Ha , Pak Hui‐Nam
Published: May 2020

Background

Observational studies have shown that high levels of serum uric acid (UA) were associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the causal effect of urate on the risk of AF is still unknown. To clarify the potential causal association between UA and AF, we performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using genetic instrumental variables (IVs).

Materials and methods

From the Korean GWAS dataset of 633 patients with AF (mean age 50.6 ± 7.8 years, 80.9% male, Yonsei AF Ablation cohort) who underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation and the data from 3533 controls (from the Korea Genome Epidemiology Study), we selected 9 SNPs, with a P value less than .05, associated with an increased UA serum level. Additionally, we calculated the weighted genetic risk score (wGRS) using the selected 9 SNPs, to use it as an instrumental variable. A Mendelian randomization analysis was calculated by a 2‐stage estimator method.

Results

The conventional association between the serum UA and AF was significant (P = .001) after adjusting for potential confounding factors. The SNP rs1165196 on SLC17A1 (F‐statistics = 208.34, 0.18 mg/mL per allele change, P < .001) and wGRS (F‐statistics = 222.26, 0.20 mg/mL per 1SD change, P < .001) were significantly associated with an increase in the UA level. The MR analysis was causally associated with rs1165196 (estimated odds ratio (OR), 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.06‐0.75, P = .017), but not wGRS (estimated OR, 1.07, 95% CI, 0.57‐2.01, P = .832).

Conclusion

The serum UA level was independently associated with the AF risk.
International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries: 1. Fractures and luxations
Authors: Bourguignon Cecilia , Cohenca Nestor , Lauridsen Eva , Flores Marie Therese , O'Connell Anne C. , Day Peter F. , Tsilingaridis Georgios , Abbott Paul V. , Fouad Ashraf F. , Hicks Lamar , Andreasen Jens Ove , Cehreli Zafer C. , Harlamb Stephen , Kahler Bill , Oginni Adeleke , Semper Marc , Levin Liran
Published: May 2020

Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) of permanent teeth occur frequently in children and young adults. Crown fractures and luxations of these teeth are the most commonly occurring of all dental injuries. Proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow up are important for achieving a favorable outcome. Guidelines should assist dentists and patients in decision making and in providing the best care possible, both effectively and efficiently. The International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) has developed these Guidelines as a consensus statement after a comprehensive review of the dental literature and working group discussions. Experienced researchers and clinicians from various specialties and the general dentistry community were included in the working group. In cases where the published data did not appear conclusive, recommendations were based on the consensus opinions of the working group. They were then reviewed and approved by the members of the IADT Board of Directors. These Guidelines represent the best current evidence based on literature search and expert opinion. The primary goal of these Guidelines is to delineate an approach for the immediate or urgent care of TDIs. In this first article, the IADT Guidelines cover the management of fractures and luxations of permanent teeth. The IADT does not, and cannot, guarantee favorable outcomes from adherence to the Guidelines. However, the IADT believes that their application can maximize the probability of favorable outcomes.
Oil palm survival under climate change in Kalimantan and alternative SE Asian palm oil countries with future basal stem rot assessments
Authors: Paterson R. Russell M.
Published: May 2020

Oil palm (OP) is affected by climate change and the cultivation of the crop also contributes to climate alteration. Simulation modelling and large data sets indicated the effects of climate change on OP will be to (a) reduce growth and yields and (b) cause death of some OP. Furthermore, basal stem rot (BSR) caused by Ganoderma boninense, a serious disease of OP, has increased over the past two or three decades because of the disease spreading from infection foci at a greater rate in repeated crops of OP planted on infested sites. The disease may increase further by natural selection of more virulent strains of the fungus. In this paper, increased mortality of OP is predicted based on climate change scenarios for Kalimantan and other South‐East Asian countries with palm oil industries. Climate suitability scenarios for growing OP are also used to assess how BSR will change in the specified region and countries. The data suggest that Kalimantan and the Philippines may be more suitable for growing OP than Thailand and Myanmar, with Papua New Guinea being intermediate. Development of methods for mitigating the effects of climate change on OP is urgently required.
The accuracy of using administrative healthcare data to identify epilepsy cases: A systematic review of validation studies
Authors: Mbizvo Gashirai K. , Bennett Kyle H. , Schnier Christian , Simpson Colin R. , Duncan Susan E. , Chin Richard F.M.
Published: May 2020

Our objective was to undertake a systematic review ascertaining the accuracy of using administrative healthcare data to identify epilepsy cases. We searched MEDLINE and Embase from 01/01/1975 to 03/07/2018 for studies evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of routinely collected healthcare data in identifying epilepsy cases. Any disease coding system in use since the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) was permissible. Two authors independently screened studies, extracted data, and quality‐assessed studies. We assessed positive predictive value (PPV), sensitivity, negative predictive value (NPV), and specificity. The primary analysis was a narrative synthesis of review findings. Thirty studies were included, published between 1989 and 2018. Risks of bias were low, high, and unclear in 4, 14, and 12 studies, respectively. Coding systems included ICD‐9, ICD‐10, and Read Codes, with or without antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). PPVs included ranges of 5.2%–100% (Canada), 32.7%–96.0% (USA), 47.0%–100% (UK), and 37.0%–88.0% (Norway). Sensitivities included ranges of 22.2%–99.7% (Canada), 12.2%–97.3% (USA), and 79.0%–94.0% (UK). Nineteen studies contained at least one algorithm with a PPV >80%. Sixteen studies contained at least one algorithm with a sensitivity >80%. PPV was highest in algorithms consisting of disease codes (ICD‐10 G40‐41, ICD‐9 345) in combination with one or more AEDs. The addition of symptom codes to this (ICD‐10 R56; ICD‐9 780.3, 780.39) lowered PPV. Sensitivity was highest in algorithms consisting of symptom codes with one or more AEDs. Although using AEDs alone achieved high sensitivities, the associated PPVs were low. Most NPVs and specificities were >90%. We conclude that it is reasonable to use administrative data to identify people with epilepsy (PWE) in epidemiological research. Studies prioritizing high PPVs should focus on combining disease codes with AEDs. Studies prioritizing high sensitivities should focus on combining symptom codes with AEDs. We caution against the use of AEDs alone to identify PWE.
First record of Xylosandrus germanus (Blandford) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in the Mediterranean scrubland in Southern Italy, and its co‐presence with the co‐generic species X. compactus (Eichhoff) and X. crassiusculus (Motschulsky)
Authors: Contarini M. , Vannini A. , Giarruzzo F. , Faccoli M. , Morales‐Rodriguez C. , Rossini L. , Speranza S.
Published: May 2020

In the Circeo National Park (Italy), a survey assessed the occurrence of the ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus germanus in addition to the conspecifics X. compactus and X. crassiusculus. This is the first report in Europe of the co‐presence of three Xylosandrus species, in an evergreen Mediterranean maquis dominated by holm oaks (Quercus ilex L.). Although no damage caused by X. germanus has been observed, the richness of plant species in the Circeo National Park may allow the establishment of this highly polyphagous ambrosia beetle, possibly endangering this native ecosystem. The dominance in the associated fungal community of Ambrosiella grosmanniae and Fusarium spp. reflects a stable symbiotic relationship of these taxa with X. germanus.
Functional characterization of a C‐terminal splice variant of the human melanocortin 1 receptor
Authors: Martínez‐Vicente Idoya , Abrisqueta Marta , Herraiz Cecilia , Jiménez‐Cervantes Celia , García‐Borrón Jose Carlos , Olivares Concepción
Published: May 2020

The melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is a major determinant of skin pigmentation and sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. When stimulated by its natural agonists, it promotes the switch from synthesis of poorly photoprotective and lightly colored pheomelanins to production of photoprotective and darker eumelanins. In addition to an unusually high number of single nucleotide polymorphisms, the MC1R is expressed as 3 protein‐coding splice variants. Two transcripts display different 5’ untranslated sequences but yield the same open reading frame corresponding to the canonical 317 aminoacids protein (termed MC1R). An alternative transcript named MC1R‐203 encodes for a 382 amino acids protein of poorly characterized functional properties containing an additional 65 aminoacids C‐terminal extension. Given the known roles of the MC1R C‐terminal extension in forward trafficking, coupling to intracellular effectors and desensitization, the different structure of this domain in MC1R and MC1R‐203 may lead to significant functional alteration(s). We have assessed the functional properties of MC1R‐203, as compared with the canonical MC1R form. We show that unstimulated HBL human melanoma cells express the MC1R‐203 spliceoform, although at much lower levels than canonical MC1R. When expressed in heterologous HEK293 cells, the presence of the 65 aminoacid‐long cytosolic extension immediately after Cys316 in MC1R‐203 did not impair the intracellular stability of the protein, but it interfered with functional coupling to the cAMP cascade and with the ubiquitylation of ARRB2 associated with MC1R desensitization. Conversely, MC1R‐203 retained full capacity to activate ERK1/2 signaling. Accordingly, MC1R‐203 displays biased signaling when expressed in HEK293 cells.
Post‐fire carbon dynamics in the tropical peat swamp forests of Brunei reveal long‐term elevated CH4 flux
Authors: Lupascu Massimo , Akhtar Hasan , Smith Thomas E. L. , Sukri Rahayu Sukmaria
Published: May 2020

Tropical peatlands hold about 15%–19% of the global peat carbon (C) pool of which 77% is stored in the peat swamp forests (PSFs) of Southeast Asia. Nonetheless, these PSFs have been drained, exploited for timber and land for agriculture, leading to frequent fires in the region. The physico‐chemical characteristics of peat, as well as the hydrology of PSFs are affected after a fire, during which the ecosystem can act as a C source for decades, as C emissions to the atmosphere exceed photosynthesis. In this work, we studied the longer‐term impact of fires on C cycling in tropical PSFs, hence we quantified the magnitude and patterns of C loss (CO2, CH4 and dissolved organic carbon) and soil‐water quality characteristics in an intact and a degraded burnt PSF in Brunei Darussalam affected by seven fires over the last 40 years. We used natural tracers such as 14C to investigate the age and sources of C contributing to ecosystem respiration (Reco) and CH4, while we continuously monitored soil temperature and water table (WT) level from June 2017 to January 2019. Our results showed a major difference in the physico‐chemical parameters, which in turn affected C dynamics, especially CH4. Methane effluxes were higher in fire‐affected areas (7.8 ± 2.2 mg CH4 m−2 hr−1) compared to the intact PSF (4.0 ± 2.0 mg CH4 m−2 hr−1) due to prolonged higher WT and more optimal methanogenesis conditions. On the other hand, we did not find significant differences in Reco between burnt (432 ± 83 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1) and intact PSF (359 ± 76 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1). Radiocarbon analysis showed overall no significant difference between intact and burnt PSF with a modern signature for both CO2 and CH4 fluxes implying a microbial preference for the more labile C fraction in the peat matrix.
Deciphering the role of selenium‐enriched rice protein hydrolysates in the regulation of Pb2+‐induced cytotoxicity: an in vitro Caco‐2 cell model study
Authors: Zhu Yiqing , Ding Jian , Shi Yi , Fang Yong , Li Peng , Fan Fengjiao , Wu Jian , Hu Qiuhui
Published: May 2020

Lead (Pb), a well‐known toxic metal, has a potential of adverse effects on human health. Selenium (Se) can reduce the toxicity caused by heavy metals. In this study, we investigated the protection mechanism of the purified Se‐enriched rice protein hydrolysates (SPHs‐2) on the Pb2+‐induced cytotoxicity. A Caco‐2 cell model was established to characterise the effect of SPHs‐2 on Pb2+ absorption in the simulated small intestine. Results showed that 1000 μg mL−1 of SPHs‐2 treatment could significantly increase cell viability by 19.43% in Pb2+‐treated Caco‐2 cells (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the absorption of Pb2+ was successfully retarded by incorporating SPHs‐2. Interestingly, selenomethionine (SeMet) was identified as a major Se species in SPHs‐2 by HPLC‐ICP‐MS, and SeMet played a crucial role in regulating Pb2+ intestinal absorption via forming complexes. In light of this, SPHs‐2 may serve as a potential Pb2+‐chelating peptide for developing novel functional food and protecting human health.
Effect of lactic acid bacterial fermentation on amino acids and volatile compounds of pork trimming hydrolysate
Authors: Li Xinzhi , Lee Pin‐Rou , Taniasuri Fransisca , Liu Shao‐Quan
Published: May 2020

The objective of this research was to improve the volatile flavour profile of a pork trimming hydrolysate by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation. Five probiotic strains and one dairy strain were used. The dominant aliphatic aldehydes (80.90%) in the unfermented hydrolysate were greatly reduced to <15% by converting into respective carboxylic acids and alcohols after fermentation. Strain GG was the only LAB that produced a significant level of succinic acid (1.62 mg mL−1) and ketones (14.92%) (mainly diacetyl and acetoin) in the hydrolysate. Strains 299V and GG showed moderate proteolytic activities as their amino acid content reduced to 126.05 and 219.14 mg per 10 mL compared to the control (316.45 mg per 10 mL) after fermentation, respectively. However, little amino acid‐derived volatiles were found in all fermented samples. These findings indicate that LAB fermentation modulates the flavour compounds of pork hydrolysates, which has the potential to be developed to novel flavouring materials.
The effect of moderate pulsed electric fields on autolysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the amino acid content in autolysates
Authors: Yang Geng , Wang Rui , Gao Jing‐Rong , Niu Debao , Li Jian , Wen Qing‐Hui , Zeng Xin‐An
Published: May 2020

The effect of moderate pulsed electric fields (MPEF) strength on autolysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was evaluated in this study. After exposure to MPEF with intensity of 7 kV cm−1 for 4 ms, the integrity of the cell wall was obviously destroyed and the inactivation of S. cerevisiae reached 99.43%. During the subsequent 42‐h autolysis process, the release of free α‐amino nitrogen of MPEF‐treated cells, as well as extracellular protease activity, was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of untreated cells. Moreover, exposure to 7 kV cm−1 led to an increase of the total amino acid of 149.36%. In particular, the content of aspartic acid and glutamic acid which are important umami flavour precursors increased by 232.55% and 209.40%, respectively. These results indicate that MPEF will be an effective method to accelerate autolysis of S. cerevisiae for obtaining high‐quality yeast extract as flavour enhancers and nutrition supplements.
Lower urinary α‐Klotho is associated with lower angiotensin‐(1‐7) and higher blood pressure in young adults born preterm with very low birthweight
Authors: South Andrew M. , Shaltout Hossam A. , Gwathmey TanYa M. , Jensen Elizabeth T. , Nixon Patricia A. , Diz Debra I. , Chappell Mark C. , Washburn Lisa K.
Published: May 2020

Early‐life factors including preterm birth and VLBW increase the risk of hypertension, but the mechanisms remain poorly understood. Reductions in the anti‐aging protein α‐klotho are associated with hypertension, possibly due to angiotensin (Ang) II activation, but the mechanisms are incompletely understood and clinical evidence is lacking. The association of α‐klotho with the alternative Ang‐(1‐7) pathway, which counteracts Ang II to lower BP, is undescribed. We hypothesized that lower urinary α‐klotho is associated with higher BP and lower urinary Ang‐(1‐7) in preterm‐born VLBW young adults. In a cross‐sectional analysis of data from a prospective cohort of 141 preterm‐born VLBW young adults, we assessed the associations among urinary α‐klotho/creatinine, Ang II/creatinine, Ang‐(1‐7)/creatinine, Ang II/Ang‐(1‐7), and BP using generalized linear models adjusted for age and hypertensive pregnancy and conducted a sensitivity analysis in 32 term‐born young adults. Among those born preterm, lower α‐klotho/creatinine was associated with higher systolic BP (adjusted β (aβ): −2.58 mm Hg, 95% CI −4.99 to −0.17), lower Ang‐(1‐7)/creatinine (ln aβ: 0.1, 0.04‐0.16), and higher Ang II/Ang‐(1‐7) (ln aβ: −0.14, −0.21 to −0.07). In term‐born participants, α‐klotho/creatinine was inversely associated with Ang II/creatinine (ln aβ: −0.15, −0.27 to −0.03) and Ang II/Ang‐(1‐7) (ln aβ: −0.15, −0.27 to −0.03). In preterm‐born young adults with VLBW, lower urinary α‐klotho/creatinine was associated with higher SBP, lower urinary Ang‐(1‐7)/creatinine, and higher urinary Ang II/Ang‐(1‐7). Reduced renal α‐klotho expression could lead to renal Ang‐(1‐7) suppression as a novel mechanism for the development of hypertension among individuals born preterm with VLBW.
Higher aggression is related to poorer academic performance in compulsory education
Authors: Vuoksimaa Eero , Rose Richard J. , Pulkkinen Lea , Palviainen Teemu , Rimfeld Kaili , Lundström Sebastian , Bartels Meike , van Beijsterveldt Catharina , Hendriks Anne , de Zeeuw Eveline L. , Plomin Robert , Lichtenstein Paul , Boomsma Dorret I. , Kaprio Jaakko
Published: May 2020

Background

To conduct a comprehensive assessment of the association between aggression and academic performance in compulsory education.

Method

We studied aggression and academic performance in over 27,000 individuals from four European twin cohorts participating in the ACTION consortium (Aggression in Children: Unraveling gene‐environment interplay to inform Treatment and InterventiON strategies). Individual level data on aggression at ages 7–16 were assessed by three instruments (Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment, Multidimensional Peer Nomination Inventory, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) including parental, teacher and self‐reports. Academic performance was measured with teacher‐rated grade point averages (ages 12–14) or standardized test scores (ages 12–16). Random effect meta‐analytical correlations with academic performance were estimated for parental ratings (in all four cohorts) and self‐ratings (in three cohorts).

Results

All between‐family analyses indicated significant negative aggression–academic performance associations with correlations ranging from −.06 to −.33. Results were similar across different ages, instruments and raters and either with teacher‐rated grade point averages or standardized test scores as measures of academic performance. Meta‐analytical r’s were −.20 and −.23 for parental and self‐ratings, respectively. In within‐family analyses of all twin pairs, the negative aggression–academic performance associations were statistically significant in 14 out of 17 analyses (r = −.17 for parental‐ and r = −.16 for self‐ratings). Separate analyses in monozygotic (r = −.07 for parental and self‐ratings), same‐sex dizygotic (r’s = −.16 and −.17 for parental and self‐ratings) and opposite‐sex dizygotic (r’s = −.21 and −.19 for parental and self‐ratings) twin pairs suggested partial confounding by genetic effects.

Conclusions

There is a robust negative association between aggression and academic performance in compulsory education. Part of these associations were explained by shared genetic effects, but some evidence of a negative association between aggression and academic performance remained even in within‐family analyses of monozygotic twin pairs.
School quality ratings are weak predictors of students’ achievement and well‐being
Authors: von Stumm Sophie , Smith‐Woolley Emily , Cheesman Rosa , Pingault Jean‐Baptiste , Asbury Kathryn , Dale Philip S. , Allen Rebecca , Kovas Yulia , Plomin Robert
Published: June 2020

Background

In England, all state‐funded schools are inspected by an independent government agency, the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted). Inspections aim to hold schools accountable and to promote the improvement of education, with the results made available to the public. Ofsted reports intend to index school quality, but their influence on students’ individual outcomes has not been previously studied. The aim of the current study was to explore the extent to which school quality, as indexed by Ofsted ratings, is associated with students’ educational achievement, well‐being and school engagement.

Methods

We use an England population‐based sample of 4,391 individuals, for whom school performance at age 11 and GCSE grades at age 16 were accessed from the National Pupil Database, and who completed measures of well‐being and school engagement at age 16.

Results

We found that Ofsted ratings of secondary school quality accounted for 4% of the variance in students' educational achievement at age 16, which was further reduced to 1% of the variance after we accounted for prior school performance at age 11 and family socioeconomic status. Furthermore, Ofsted ratings were weak predictors of school engagement and student well‐being, with an average correlation of .03.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that differences in school quality, as indexed by Ofsted ratings, have little relation to students’ individual outcomes. Accordingly, our results challenge the usefulness of Ofsted ratings as guides for parents and students when choosing secondary schools.
Editorial Perspective: Perils and promise for child and adolescent sleep and associated psychopathology during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Becker Stephen P. , Gregory Alice M.
Published: May 2020

It is anticipated that the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and associated societal response will have wide‐ranging impacts on youth development and mental health. Sleep is crucial for child and adolescent health and well‐being, and the potential for sleep problems to emerge or worsen during and following the pandemic is high. This may be particularly true for children and adolescents who are at heightened risk for the onset of sleep and mental health disturbances and for those whom developmental changes impacting sleep are rapidly occurring. Youth with preexisting psychopathologies (including anxiety and depression) and neurodevelopmental conditions (including attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder) could be especially vulnerable to disturbed sleep during this period of change and uncertainty. It is thus imperative that sleep considerations be part of research and clinical initiatives aimed at understanding and mitigating the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic in children and adolescents. This article considers ways in which the pandemic may impact sleep, including research and clinical implications.
A clinical, histopathological and laboratory study of 19 consecutive Italian paediatric patients with chilblain‐like lesions: lights and shadows on the relationship with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: El Hachem M. , Diociaiuti A. , Concato C. , Carsetti R. , Carnevale C. , Ciofi Degli Atti M. , Giovannelli L. , Latella E. , Porzio O. , Rossi S. , Stracuzzi A. , Zaffina S. , Onetti Muda A. , Zambruno G. , Alaggio R.
Published: May 2020

Background

Acral chilblain‐like lesions are being increasingly reported during COVID‐19 pandemic. However, only few patients proved positivity for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The relationship between this skin manifestation and COVID‐19 infection has not been clarified yet.

Objective

To thoroughly characterize a prospective group of patients with chilblain‐like lesions and to investigate the possible relationship with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

Following informed consent, patients underwent (i) clinical evaluation, (ii) RT‐PCR and serology testing for SARS‐CoV‐2, (iii) digital videocapillaroscopy of finger and toe nailfolds, (iv) blood testing to screen for autoimmune diseases and coagulation anomalies, and (v) skin biopsy for histopathology, direct immunofluorescence and, in selected cases, electron microscopy.

Results

Nineteen patients, all adolescents (mean age: 14 years), were recruited. 11/19 (58%) of them and/or their cohabitants reported flu‐like symptoms one to two months prior to skin manifestation onset. Lesions were localized to toes and also heels and soles. Videocapillaroscopy showed pericapillary oedema, dilated and abnormal capillaries, and microhaemorrhages both in finger and toe in the majority of patients. Major pathological findings included epidermal basal layer vacuolation, papillary dermis oedema and erythrocyte extravasation, perivascular and perieccrine dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, and mucin deposition in the dermis and hypodermis; dermal vessel thrombi were observed in two cases. Blood examinations were normal. Nasopharyngeal swab for SARS‐CoV‐2 and IgG serology for SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein were negative. Importantly, IgA serology for S1 domain of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein was positive in 6 patients and borderline in 3.

Conclusions

Chilblain‐like lesions during COVID‐19 pandemic have specific epidemiologic, clinical, capillaroscopic and histopathological characteristics, which distinguish them from idiopathic perniosis. Though we could not formally prove SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in our patients, history data and the detection of anti‐SARS‐COV‐2 IgA strongly suggest a relationship between skin lesions and COVID‐19. Further investigations on the mechanisms of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in children and pathogenesis of chilblain‐like lesions are warranted.