bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and tolerability of chemical peeling as a single agent for melasma in dark‐skinned patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of comparative trials
Authors: Dorgham Nevine A. , Hegazy Rehab A. , Sharobim Amin K. , Dorgham Dina A.
Published: September 2020

Background

Chemical peelings are used on a wide scale in cosmetic field including melasma treatment. They often provide clinicians with flexibility in tailoring treatments according to patient needs and satisfaction.

Objective

To evaluate safety and efficacy of chemical peeling as single agents in melasma management in patients with darker skin types.

Methods

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective studies that assessed efficacy and safety of chemical peeling as single agents for facial melasma. An online bibliographic search was conducted, and data were extracted from the included studies.

Results

Ten RCTs and three prospective comparative studies (No. of patients = 478) were included. The overall effect estimate favored Glycolic acid (GA) over trichloroacetic acid peel in terms of melasma activity and severity index (MASI) (mean difference [MD] −1.89, 95% CI [−3.26, −0.52], P = .007). On the other hand, the overall effect estimates did not favor GA over tretinoin (MD 0.53, 95% CI [−0.46, 1.52], P = .3), vitamin C iontophoresis (MD 1.50, 95% CI [−0.50, 3.50], P = .14), and amino fruit acid (MD 0.39, 95% CI [−0.64, 1.42], P = .46) in terms of MASI. The overall effect estimates favored trichloroacetic acid peel (MD −5.30, 95% CI [−6.41, −4.19], P < .001) and Jessner's solution (MD −3.20, 95% CI [−5.35, −1.05], P = .004) over topical hydroquinone in terms of MASI.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chemical peelings are effective as single agents for management of melasma in patients with darker skin types, with the use of topicals as maintenance treatment.
Newer injection points for facial contouring with hyaluronic acid filler—Case Report
Authors: Ballani Indu , Sarkar Rashmi
Published: September 2020

Background

Hyaluronic fillers have been used for filling in folds and contour the face according to global aesthetic standards to achieve a smooth ogee curve on the face. But sometimes these result in a bulkier look to the face thus preventing more people from opting for these procedures. Although M.D codes have now been given to guide the injecting physicians for various points of injections on the face, they need to be used judiciously and tailored to individuals, using the lateral points of the face first.

Aims

Patients still come to physicians to get the midface and nasolabial folds corrected but a proper aesthetic evaluation is essential and it was observed that targeting the peripheral points of the face leads to better tightening of the face and a slimmer look for the patient. A case was injected on peripheral points including some newer points not mentioned in the M.D codes. These points are on the forehead along the hairline and the mastoid process. Safety and efficacy of injecting on these particular points were evaluated.

Methods

2‐ml hyaluronic acid syringes (20 mg conc) were used to give bolus injections on the peripheral points of the face, including a new point on mastoid process and peripheral points on forehead.

Results

A good aesthetic outcome was achieved resulting in slimming of face with patient satisfaction and without any complications.

Conclusion

A good nonsurgical contouring of a young face can be achieved with 2 ml hyaluronic acid injection when the correct points are injected.
The caring experience and supportive care needs of male partners for women with gynaecologic cancer: A qualitative literature review
Authors: Ge Xiaoling , Tong Huanhuan , Song Yongxia , He Hongye , Li Shuwen , Hong Jingfang , Wang Wenru
Published: September 2020

Objective

To systematically review male partners’ caring experience and supportive care needs when caring for women with gynaecologic cancer.

Methods

The PRISMA guidelines were used to conduct this systematic review. We performed a comprehensive literature search in nine databases and qualitative studies published in English or Chinese from inception to January 2020. The included papers were appraised, using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool for qualitative research. An inductive thematic analysis method was adopted to synthesise major findings to construct core concepts and themes.

Results

Eight studies were included in this review, and four overarching themes emerged the following: the negative experience of disease, the need for supportive care to cope, adapting to a new life and post‐traumatic growth.

Conclusions

This study shows that male partners had both negative and positive experiences in the caring process, and they could adjust themselves to some extent. Their perceived supportive care needs were often neglected.

Relevance to clinical practice

Male partners of women with gynaecologic cancer are an under‐recognised group. The couple‐oriented or family‐oriented supportive care programmes should be implemented to meet the supportive care needs of male partners to enhance their health and well‐being.
Assessment of Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Volumetric MRI Correlates of Clinical Disability in Multiple Sclerosis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Pérez Carlos A. , Salehbeiki Alireza , Zhu Liang , Wolinsky Jerry S. , Lincoln John A.
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although global and regional brain volume has been established as a relevant measure to define and predict multiple sclerosis (MS) severity, characterization of specific trends by race/ethnicity is currently lacking. We aim to (1) characterize racial disparities in disability‐specific patterns of brain MRI volumetric measures between Hispanic and Caucasian individuals with MS and (2) explore the relevance of these measures as predictors of clinical disability progression.

METHODS

Brain MRI scans from 94 Hispanic and 94 age‐ and gender‐matched Caucasian MS patients were analyzed using automatic and manual segmentation techniques. Select global and regional volume measures were correlated to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores at baseline and subsequent follow‐up visits.

RESULTS

Hispanic patients had a higher baseline median EDSS score (interquartile range [IQR], 2.0; [1.0‐3.5]) compared to Caucasians (median [IQR], 1.0 [.0‐2.0]) and an increased risk of requiring ambulatory assistance (hazard ratio [HR], 9.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.8‐32.5). Normalized thalamic volume was moderately associated with EDSS scores (rs  = −.42,  P < .001 in Hispanics; rs  = −.32, P  = .002 in Caucasians) and was the best predictor of sustained disability worsening in both racial groups in a time‐to‐event analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The confounding impact of race on quantitative brain volume measures may affect the interpretation of outcome measures in MS clinical trials.
Value of study groups: Why we should stick together
Authors: Bills Hannah , Kaufman Jonathan
Published: September 2020

Fellowship examinations are a potentially stressful part of clinical training. While they may feel at the time to be a test of academic fortitude and endurance, they also establish the foundation knowledge essential for a career in paediatrics. We reflect on the important role of the study group in this process, and the far‐reaching benefits of peer support and sticking together, for the exam and beyond.
NeoSTRESS: Study of Transfer and Retrieval Environmental StressorS upon neonates via a smartphone application – Sound
Authors: Gilmour Deborah , Duong Khoi M , Gilmour Ian J , Davies Mark W
Published: September 2020

Aim

This study aimed to measure sound exposure during neonatal retrieval, determine whether this varied with mode of transport, and compare noise exposure to recommended levels in neonatal intensive care units. We also aimed to assess the acceptability of using a smartphone application to measure sound. Setting: Neonatal retrieval service in Brisbane, Australia.

Methods

The Physics Toolbox Sensor Suite application was installed on a Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone and calibrated for sound measurement. Data were collected during outbound, non‐patient legs of 45 retrievals – 25 road, 11 fixed wing aircraft and 9 rotary aircraft journeys. Data were saved to cloud storage, then analysed using PostgreSQL database.

Results

The median sound level was 83 dB (interquartile range 66–91; range 27–≥97 dB). Continuous equivalent sound (Leq) was 90 dB across all journeys. Rotary transport was loudest (Leq 94 dB). Fixed wing (Leq 89 dB) and road (Leq 87 dB) journeys also resulted in significant sound exposure. Sound exceeded recommended levels (45 dB) for 99% of all journey time, regardless of the mode of transport.

Conclusions

Neonates encounter harmful sound levels during retrieval – louder than recommended levels for 99% of all retrieval time. Sounds levels were highest in rotary aircraft transport compared to fixed wing or road transport. It is feasible to use a calibrated smartphone application instead of a sound metre.
Facilitating educational experiences in a paediatric handover: A qualitative case study
Authors: Ooi Aaron , Bradley Stephen , Mukherjee Shuvayon , Stafford Kerry , Henning Marcus A
Published: September 2020

Aim

Handovers have been established as a valuable educational tool; nevertheless, a paucity of literature exists evaluating contributors to the educational experience. Our study aimed to investigate participants' educational experiences based on a paediatric handover, and the facilitators and barriers towards teaching and learning during this process.

Methods

A case study was conducted using semi‐structured interviews. Data were collected exploring participants' perspectives of their educational experiences within a handover. An inductive, thematic content analysis was performed to identify key themes, assisted by nVivo software.

Results

Four key themes contributing to the educational experience within a handover were identified related to the organisation of a handover, team dynamics, teaching and learning moments and tensions between the clinical tasks and education. A model is proposed aimed at optimising education within this context.

Conclusions

Our study identified contributing factors towards the educational experiences at handovers and provides strategies to optimise these.
Laryngeal mask airway use during neonatal resuscitation: a survey of practice across newborn intensive care units and neonatal retrieval services in Australian New Zealand Neonatal Network
Authors: Goel Dimple , Shah Dharmesh , Hinder Murray , Tracy Mark
Published: September 2020

This is an Australia New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN) wide survey to identify current practice and guide future practice improvement for the use of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) during neonatal resuscitation. An online questionnaire containing 13 questions was sent out to all tertiary neonatal centres (n = 29 units) and neonatal transport units (n = 4) within ANZNN. The non‐tertiary (level‐II) centres were not included. Response from a senior neonatologist at each centre was received and evaluated. Twenty‐two services (67%) had LMA available; of that only, 40% felt the competency of staff to be adequate; and 59% had routine training in LMA use. During neonatal resuscitation, 68% units reported using LMA if endotracheal intubation was unsuccessful after two or more failed intubation attempts and only 18% used it before intubation if face mask ventilation was inadequate. This survey highlighted variations in practice across the tertiary neonatal centres in ANZNN network. One‐third of the units lack LMA availability and the units with LMA, face concerns of underutilisation and lack of skills for its use.
Foster and kinship carer survey: Accessing health services for children in out‐of‐home care
Authors: McLean Karen , Hiscock Harriet , Scott Dorothy , Goldfeld Sharon
Published: September 2020

Aim

To explore the experiences of Victorian foster and kinship carers in accessing health services for children in their care and to quantify the frequency of potential barriers to health care.

Methods

On‐line survey co‐designed with the Foster Care Association of Victoria measuring carer‐reported health service engagement by a child/young person in their care, ease of service access, time to receiving Medicare number and out‐of‐pocket health‐related costs. A total of 239 foster and 51 kinship carers were recruited through email and social media by carer support agencies.

Results

In total, 90% of children/young people had engaged with a general practitioner. Most had engaged with dental (75%), paediatric (72%), optometry (61%) and audiology (54%) services. Mental health services were most likely to be needed but not yet received. Neither carer education nor socio‐economic status was associated with likelihood of service engagement. Carers reported that it was hardest to get appointments with mental health and paediatric services.

Twenty‐seven percent had waited to see a health service because of delays in carers receiving their Medicare number. Sixty percent of carers had paid out‐of‐pocket for health services; 78% of these had not been reimbursed.

Conclusion

Victorian foster and kinship carers report high health service use for children and young people in their care. Mental health services were the hardest to access with the largest gap between identified need and service use. Timely access to Medicare numbers and financial support are barriers to access that could be addressed. The development of integrated paediatric health care and clinicians co‐located with child protection could also assist.
Nutritional implications of feeding free‐living birds in public urban areas
Authors: Burt Sara A. , Vos Cornelis J. , Buijs Jan A. , Corbee Ronald J.
Published: September 2020

Supplementary feeding can affect populations of birds. It reduces energy spent on foraging and reduces the risk of starvation, but it also increases the risk of disease transmission and predation. Supplementary feeding may reduce species richness if some species are better able to exploit supplementary food resources than others. Feeding may also artificially inflate the carrying capacity of the ecosystem, leading to bird nuisance in the form of droppings and noise. The aim of this study was to characterise and quantify the risk factors and consequences of feeding free‐living birds in public areas in the western part of the city of Amsterdam. In seven study areas, the following data were collected: bird population size and species composition, feeding events, and the type and amount of supplementary food offered. Estimations were made of the nutritional energy provided and the number of birds that could be supported by the food offered. Members of the public who fed the birds were invited to complete a questionnaire on various aspects of feeding. Results showed that supplementary feeding attracts juvenile gulls and feral pigeons, which could in the long‐term affect biodiversity. Bread was the main category of supplementary food being offered (estimated to be 67% of the total amount of food). The majority of respondents fed birds so as not to waste bread and meal leftovers. In six of the seven areas studied, an overabundance of nutritional energy was calculated. We conclude that the current type and extent of supplementary feeding in the city of Amsterdam is nutritionally unbalanced and affects species diversity at a local level. The overabundance is undesirable for reasons of both animal health, because it can lead to malnutrition, and public health, because surplus food attracts rats and may also have a negative effect on water quality.
Ultrasonographic assessment of abdominal aortic elasticity in hypertensive dogs
Authors: Corda Andrea , Corda Francesca , Caivano Domenico , Saderi Laura , Sotgiu Giovanni , Mollica Alessandra , Birettoni Francesco , Porciello Francesco , Pinna Parpaglia Maria Luisa
Published: September 2020

Background

Systemic hypertension (SH) is a persistent and pathological increase in arterial blood pressure (BP). Chronic SH leads to an increase in aortic (Ao) stiffness, and measuring Ao elasticity is useful for estimating Ao stiffness in humans. Currently, no literature in veterinary medicine describes noninvasive assessment of abdominal Ao elasticity in dogs with SH.

Objective

Compare ultrasonographic‐derived abdominal Ao strain (AoSt) between hypertensive (HT) and normotensive (NT) dogs.

Animals

Fifty privately‐owned dogs with clinical signs, conditions, or both potentially associated with SH.

Methods

Prospective observational case‐control study. Aortic stiffness was estimated by calculating AoSt as follows: AoSt = ([AoDs − AoDd]/AoDd) × 100, where AoDs and AoDd are the Ao diameter in systole and in diastole, respectively. Aortic stiffness was calculated from 2 different Ao transverse sections, the first caudal to the left renal artery (K_AoSt), and the second cranial to the external iliac arteries (I_AoSt).

Results

Thirty‐two dogs were included in the HT group and 18 in the NT group. Both K_AoSt and I_AoSt in HT dogs were significantly lower (P < .05) than in NT dogs (7.4 ± SD 3.6) vs 10.3 (±3.8) and 5.7 (interquartile range [IQR], 3.9‐7.5) vs 8.1 (IQR, 7‐10.3), respectively. Only K_AoSt was significantly influenced by age.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Ultrasonographic Ao elasticity assessment was feasible to compare HT and NT dogs. Results indicated that K_AoSt and I_AoSt indices can be used to assess SH‐related Ao stiffness, especially when indirect BP measurements are inconsistent or inaccurate. Additional studies to assess the AoSt in healthy dogs of various ages are needed.
Sex ratios in blue whales from conception onward: effects of space, time, and body size
Authors: Branch Trevor A. , Monnahan Cole C.
Published: September 2020

Deviations from equal sex ratios in mammals can reveal insights into sex‐specific growth, survival, movements, and behavior. We assessed blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) sex ratios based on 21,542 fetal and 311,901 whaling records, finding that males were slightly but significantly more common than females (51.3% fetal, 52.1% postnatal). Antarctic catches shifted from 52.4% male before 1951 to 48.0% male thereafter, even though larger females were preferentially targeted by whalers and should have declined. The southernmost land stations caught more males than those in southern Africa, and at land stations, sex ratios shifted subtly over the course of a year. Pelagic catches demonstrated spatial structure in sex ratios, including more males being caught in the Ross Sea. In utero, the smallest females were often misidentified as males, and there was some evidence for higher prenatal male mortality. Once born, medium‐sized blue whales within each region were more often male, while the longest were nearly all female; explained entirely by females growing faster and reaching longer sizes. Overall, though, sex ratios are remarkably close to equality across time, space, and length; with any deviations best explained by faster female growth and size‐selective whaling.
Necrosome‐positive granulovacuolar degeneration is associated with TDP‐43 pathological lesions in the hippocampus of ALS/FTLD cases
Authors: Van Schoor E. , Koper M. J. , Ospitalieri S. , Dedeene L. , Tomé S. O. , Vandenberghe R. , Brenner D. , Otto M. , Weishaupt J. , Ludolph A. C. , Van Damme P. , Van Den Bosch L. , Thal D. R.
Published: September 2020

Aim

Granulovacuolar degeneration (GVD) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves the necrosome, which is a protein complex consisting of phosphorylated receptor‐interacting protein kinase 1 (pRIPK1), pRIPK3 and phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein (pMLKL). Necrosome‐positive GVD was associated with neuron loss in AD. GVD was recently linked to the C9ORF72 mutation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration with transactive response DNA‐binding protein (TDP‐43) pathology (FTLD‐TDP). Therefore, we investigated whether GVD in cases of the ALS‐FTLD‐TDP spectrum (ALS/FTLD) shows a similar involvement of the necrosome as in AD, and whether it correlates with diagnosis, presence of protein aggregates and cell death in ALS/FTLD.

Methods

We analysed the presence and distribution of the necrosome in post‐mortem brain and spinal cord of ALS and FTLD‐TDP patients (n = 30) with and without the C9ORF72 mutation, and controls (n = 22). We investigated the association of the necrosome with diagnosis, the presence of pathological protein aggregates and neuronal loss.

Results

Necrosome‐positive GVD was primarily observed in hippocampal regions of ALS/FTLD cases and was associated with hippocampal TDP‐43 inclusions as the main predictor of the pMLKL‐GVD stage, as well as with the Braak stage of neurofibrillary tangle pathology. The central cortex and spinal cord, showing motor neuron loss in ALS, were devoid of any accumulation of pRIPK1, pRIPK3 or pMLKL.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a role for hippocampal TDP‐43 pathology as a contributor to necrosome‐positive GVD in ALS/FTLD. The absence of necroptosis‐related proteins in motor neurons in ALS argues against a role for necroptosis in ALS‐related motor neuron death.
Current calcium fortification experiences: a review
Authors: Palacios Cristina , Hofmeyr G. Justus , Cormick Gabriela , Garcia‐Casal Maria Nieves , Peña‐Rosas Juan Pablo , Betrán Ana Pilar
Published: September 2020

Low dietary calcium is very common in many populations, contributing to nutritional rickets/osteomalacia in children/adults and increasing the risk of several health problems. Calcium is a nutrient of concern as the recommended nutrient requirements are difficult to meet in the absence of dairy products. The provision of culturally acceptable calcium‐fortified foods may improve calcium intake when it is a feasible and cost‐effective strategy in a particular setting. This landscape review was conducted in 2019 and describes current calcium fortification efforts and lessons learned from these experiences. Worldwide, the United Kingdom is the only country where calcium fortification of wheat flour is mandatory. It is estimated that this fortified staple ingredient contributes to 13–14% of calcium intake of the British population. Other items voluntary fortified with calcium include maize flour, rice, and water. Current calcium fortification programs may lack qualified personnel/training, clear guidelines on implementation, regulation, monitoring/evaluation, and functional indicators. Also, the cost of calcium premix is high and the target groups may be hard to reach. There is a lack of rigorous evaluation, particularly in settings with multiple micronutrient programs implemented simultaneously, with low quality of the evidence. Further research is needed to assess the impact of calcium fortification programs.
Does Capital Account Liberalization Affect Income Inequality?*
Authors: Li Xiang , Su Dan
Published: September 2020

By adopting an identification strategy of difference‐in‐difference estimation combined with propensity score matching between liberalized and closed countries, this paper provides robust evidence that opening the capital account is associated with an increase in income inequality in developing countries. Specifically, capital account liberalization, in the long run, is associated with a reduction in the income share of the poorest half by 2.66–3.79% points and an increase in that of the richest 10% by 5.19–8.76% points. Moreover, directions and categories of capital account liberalization matter. The relationship is more pronounced when liberalizing inward and equity capital flows.
Platelet plug formation in whole blood is enhanced in the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Chen William A. , Fletcher Hansel M. , Gheorghe Joseph D. , Oyoyo Udochukwu , Boskovic Danilo S.
Published: September 2020

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a gram‐negative anaerobic bacterium and an etiologic agent of adult periodontitis. By inducing a dysbiotic state within the host microbiota it contributes to a chronic inflammatory environment in the oral cavity. Under some circumstances, the oral bacteria may gain access to systemic circulation. While the most widely recognized function of platelets is to reduce hemorrhage in case of vascular damage, it is known that platelets are also involved in the hematologic responses to bacterial infections. Some pathogenic bacteria can interact with platelets, triggering their activation and aggregation. The aim of this study was to assess platelet responses to the presence of P. gingivalis in whole blood. Human whole blood was pretreated with P. gingivalis and then platelet plug formation was measured under high shear conditions using the PFA‐100. In the presence of P. gingivalis, time for a platelet plug to occlude the aperture in the collagen/ADP cartridge was shortened in a manner dependent on bacterial concentration and the duration of bacterial preincubation of blood. P. gingivalis enhances thrombus forming potential of platelets in whole blood.
Armed Conflict and the Timing of Childbearing in Azerbaijan
Authors: Torrisi Orsola
Published: September 2020

Research on fertility changes in former Soviet states of the South Caucasus is scant and has overlooked the role of armed conflicts. This study contributes to filling these gaps by providing the first detailed account of fertility changes in Azerbaijan since independence and by exploring them in relation to the Nagorno‐Karabakh conflict with Armenia. Estimates from retrospective birth history data from the 2006 Demographic and Health Survey show that since 1991 period fertility declined to almost below‐replacement levels, essentially as a result of stopping behavior, and, only recently, slight birth postponement. While the conflict seems to have little influence on aggregate trends, discrete‐time logit models accounting for unobserved heterogeneity reveal a 42–45 percent higher risk of transitioning to the second birth for women who have been exposed to conflict violence—whether in the form of forced migration or because of residence in the conflict‐torn Karabakh region—than for nonexposed women. Never‐migrant women from Karabakh have also significantly higher probability of having a first child. Further positive effects on fertility are observed for women who lost a child during peak conflict years. Risk‐insurance and replacement effects are possible mechanisms explaining such fertility responses.
Safe egg yolk consumption after a negative result for low‐dose egg oral food challenge
Authors: Yanagida Noriyuki , Sato Sakura , Takahashi Kyohei , Asaumi Tomoyuki , Nagakura Ken‐ichi , Ogura Kiyotake , Takamatsu Nobue , Ebisawa Motohiro
Published: September 2020

Background

Hen's egg is one of the most common allergens causing infantile food allergy. Consuming heated egg yolk slightly contaminated with egg white (EY with scEW) improves diet quality. Most children with egg allergies can safely consume 1/25 of a heated whole egg (low‐dose egg). Although low‐dose egg has similar antigenicity to EY with scEW, clinical reproducibility is unknown. We aimed to examine the safety of EY with scEW consumption after a negative result of low‐dose egg oral food challenge (OFC).

Methods

In this prospective study, children aged <18 years with a history of immediate reaction to eggs were enrolled. We advised children and guardians to consume EY with scEW after a negative result of low‐dose egg OFC and to record symptoms, if any.

Results

We evaluated 276 children with negative results for low‐dose egg OFC who had previously shown reactivity to eggs. Their median age was 1.2 years. Boys accounted for 188 (68%) of the children. The median egg white‐specific immunoglobulin E level was 11.7 kUA/L. At home, six children experienced mild symptoms. Skin symptoms were the most common. Among the six children, five were confirmed to continue the consumption of EY with scEW and one developed mild respiratory symptoms and continued to avoid eating eggs.

Conclusion

Although a few children with egg allergies experience mild symptoms, most of them can ultimately consume EY with scEW. Consumption of EY with scEW after low‐dose egg OFC seems safe and may improve their quality of life by making egg yolk products available.
Usefulness of adhesive strapping for umbilical hernias of infants
Authors: Kitano Akito , Moroi Toshihiro , Miura Yuichi , Suginohara Yoshiko , Suefuji Eiichi , Oohira Takahiko , Kuwahara Toshiko , Egami Kimiyasu , Haraguchi Yogo
Published: September 2020

Background

Using a controlled trial, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adhesive strapping to improve the natural healing rate of umbilical hernia.

Methods

This prospective, observational study included 128 patients from Kumamoto, Japan (97 in the adhesive strapping group, and 31 in observation group), from 2012–2015. The duration from first hospital visit to the hernia orifice closure was compared between the two groups.

Result

Kaplan‐Meier curves showed that the probability of umbilical hernia in the adhesive strapping group was lower until approximately 200 days, but it was not statistically significant in the log rank test. According to multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, the hazard risk of umbilical hernia in the adhesive strapping group was significantly higher within 0–60 days after adjusting for confounding factors such as hernial cavity and hernia orifice area (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Adhesive strapping of umbilical hernia was significantly associated with earlier closure of the hernia orifice from baseline until at least 60 days.
The pediatric solid organ transplant experience with COVID‐19: An initial multi‐center, multi‐organ case series
Authors: Goss Matthew B. , Galván N. Thao N. , Ruan Wenly , Munoz Flor M. , Brewer Eileen D. , O’Mahony Christine A. , Melicoff‐Portillo Ernestina , Dreyer William J. , Miloh Tamir A. , Cigarroa Francisco G. , Ranch Daniel , Yoeli Dor , Adams Megan A. , Koohmaraie Sarah , Harter Diana M. , Rana Abbas , Cotton Ronald T. , Carter Beth , Patel Shreena , Moreno Nicolas F. , Leung Daniel H. , Goss John A.
Published: September 2020

The clinical course of COVID‐19 in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients remains ambiguous. Though preliminary experiences with adult transplant recipients have been published, literature centered on the pediatric population is limited. We herein report a multi‐center, multi‐organ cohort analysis of COVID‐19‐positive transplant recipients ≤ 18 years at time of transplant. Data were collected via institutions’ respective electronic medical record systems. Local review boards approved this cross‐institutional study. Among 5 transplant centers, 26 patients (62% male) were reviewed with a median age of 8 years. Six were heart recipients, 8 kidney, 10 liver, and 2 lung. Presenting symptoms included cough (n = 12 (46%)), fever (n = 9 (35%)), dry/sore throat (n = 3 (12%)), rhinorrhea (n = 3 (12%)), anosmia (n = 2 (8%)), chest pain (n = 2 (8%)), diarrhea (n = 2 (8%)), dyspnea (n = 1 (4%)), and headache (n = 1 (4%)). Six patients (23%) were asymptomatic. No patient required supplemental oxygen, intubation, or ECMO. Eight patients (31%) were hospitalized at time of diagnosis, 3 of whom were already admitted for unrelated problems. Post‐transplant immunosuppression was reduced for only 2 patients (8%). All symptomatic patients recovered within 7 days. Our multi‐institutional experience suggests the prognoses of pediatric transplant recipients infected with COVID‐19 may mirror those of immunocompetent children, with infrequent hospitalization and minimal treatment, if any, required.
Early infant behavioural correlates of social skills in adolescents
Authors: Shoaff Jessica R. , Nugent Kevin , Brazelton Thomas Berry , Korrick Susan A.
Published: September 2020

Background

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder typically diagnosed after the second year of life; however, differences in brain structure and function associated with ASD have been ascertained in early infancy. Identifying behavioural markers of ASD risk in early infancy has the potential to facilitate early detection and intervention.

Objectives

We examined associations between infant behaviour and adolescent behaviours associated with ASD.

Methods

Analyses leveraged data available on 370 participants from the New Bedford Cohort, a sociodemographically diverse prospective birth cohort of children born from 1993 to 1998 to mothers residing near the New Bedford Harbor Superfund site in Massachusetts. Longitudinal assessments were used to examine the associations between behaviours when children were approximately 2 weeks old (measured by the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale [NBAS]), and subsequent maladaptive behaviours associated with ASD at approximately 15 years old [measured by the Behavior Assessment System for Children, 2nd Edition‐Teacher Rating Scale (BASC‐2 TRS) scores which are standardised to a mean (SD) of 50 (10)].

Results

Poorer performance on select individual items and cluster scales of the NBAS was associated with an increase in behaviours associated with ASD in adolescents. Associations were strongest for neonatal measures of self‐regulation, response to auditory input, and autonomic nervous system regulation. For example, in covariate‐adjusted models, infants with Regulation of State NBAS cluster scores in the lowest tertile (poorest performance) compared to infants with scores in the higher two tertiles had adolescent BASC‐2 TRS Developmental Social Disorders T‐scores that were 2.9 points higher (95% CI: 0.8, 4.9), indicating more behaviours associated with ASD.

Conclusion

The NBAS is an established and accessible instrument that assesses a broad range of behaviours in very young infants, and may be a useful tool for newborn assessments of developmental risk, including risk of ASD‐associated behaviours.
Appraising the potential of EPS‐producing rhizobacteria with ACC‐deaminase activity to improve growth and physiology of maize under drought stress
Authors: Nadeem Sajid M. , Ahmad Maqshoof , Tufail Muhammad A. , Asghar Hafiz N. , Nazli Farheen , Zahir Zahir A.
Published: September 2020

Rhizobacteria containing 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid‐deaminase (ACC‐deaminase) and exopolysaccharides (EPS) activity are important to induce stress tolerance in plants. The present study was conducted to screen and characterize plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with ACC‐deaminase and EPS‐producing activity for improving maize growth under drought stress. Eighty‐five rhizobacterial strains were isolated from the rain‐fed areas, among those 69 isolates were able to utilize ACC and 31 strains were found positive for EPS production. These strains containing ACC‐deaminase and/or EPS‐producing activity were subjected to drought tolerance assay by inducing water stress in media using polyethylene glycol 6000. Based on results of the drought tolerance bioassay, 12 most prominent strains were selected to evaluate their growth‐promoting abilities in maize under water‐stressed conditions by conducting jar trial. The impact of strains on maize growth parameters was variable. Strains with co‐existence of ACC‐deaminase and EPS‐producing activity showed comparatively better results than those with either ACC‐deaminase or EPS‐producing activity only. These strains were also significantly better in improving the plant physiological parameters including photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, vapor pressure, water‐use efficiency and transpiration rate. The strain D3 with co‐existence of ACC‐deaminase and EPS‐producing activity was significantly better in colonizing maize roots, improving plant growth and physiological parameters. The strain was named as Bacillus velezensis strain D3 (accession number MT367633) as confirmed through results of 16S rRNA partial gene sequencing. It is concluded that the strains with co‐existence of ACC‐deaminase and EPS‐producing activity could be better suited for improving crop growth and physiology under drought stress.
Thiamin stimulates growth and secondary metabolites in turnip (Brassica rapa L.) leaf and root under drought stress
Authors: Jabeen Munifa , Akram Nudrat Aisha , Ashraf Muhammad , Alyemeni Mohammed Nasser , Ahmad Parvaiz
Published: September 2020

Thiamin, an important member of the vitamin B family, is believed to play a significant role in mitigating environmental stresses including drought stress. In turnip, drought stress causes a reduced growth, biomass yield, pigment content, total phenolics and ascorbic acid (AsA), particularly at 50% field capacity (F.C.) in the two cultivars (cv) studied. However, a significant enhancement was observed in the contents of leaf proline, glycinebetaine (GB), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as root proline, GB, total phenolics, AsA, H2O2, MDA and the activities of peroxidase (POD) and SOD. However, foliar‐applied thiamin significantly improved (particularly 100 mM) all the growth attributes, photosynthetic pigments, leaf and root osmoprotectants (GB and proline), AsA, total phenolics and the activities of enzymatic antioxidants such as SOD and POD as well as root CAT in both turnip cultivars under drought stress conditions. Foliar application of thiamin was effective in decreasing the leaf and root H2O2 and MDA content in both cultivars particularly at 50% F.C. Thiamin‐induced growth of both turnip cultivars, particularly of cv. Purple Top, was found to be associated with increased photosynthetic pigments, proline and GB contents and antioxidant capacity, but reduced levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under water deficit conditions. So, it is suggested that exogenous application of thiamin can be effective in improving drought tolerance of plants.
Risk Perception: Reflections on 40 Years of Research
Authors: Siegrist Michael , Árvai Joseph
Published: September 2020

Numerous studies and practical experiences with risk have demonstrated the importance of risk perceptions for people's behavior. In this narrative review, we describe and reflect upon some of the lines of research that we feel have been important in helping us understand the factors and processes that shape people's risk perceptions. In our review, we propose that much of the research on risk perceptions to date can be grouped according to three dominant perspectives and, thus, approaches to study design; they are: the characteristics of hazards, the characteristics of risk perceivers, and the application of heuristics to inform risk judgments. In making these distinctions, we also highlight what we see as outstanding challenges for researchers and practitioners. We also highlight a few new research questions that we feel warrant attention.
Dental care management during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: Falahchai Mehran , Babaee Hemmati Yasamin , Hasanzade Mahya
Published: September 2020

Aim

The level of preparedness of the healthcare system plays an important role in management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). This study attempted to devise a comprehensive protocol regarding dental care during the COVID‐19 outbreak.

Methods and result

Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched until March 2020 for relevant papers. Sixteen English papers were enrolled to answer questions about procedures that are allowed to perform during the COVID‐19 outbreak, patients who are in priority to receive dental care services, the conditions and necessities for patient admission, waiting room and operatory room, and personal protective equipment (PPE) that is necessary for dental clinicians and the office staff.

Conclusion

Dental treatment should be limited to patients with urgent or emergency situation. By screening questionnaires for COVID‐19, patients are divided into three groups of (a) apparently healthy, (b) suspected for COVID‐19, and (c) confirmed for COVID‐19. Separate waiting and operating rooms should be assigned to each group of patients to minimize the risk of disease transmission. All groups should be treated with the same protective measures with regard to PPE for the dental clinicians and staff.
Challenges of nurses and care management of depressed older adults: a narrative literature review
Authors: Albougami Abdulrhman Saad B. , Almazan Joseph U. , Stitt Nancy , P. Cruz Jonas , C. Colet Paolo , Adolfo Cris S.
Published: September 2020

Background

The number of older adults with depression has increased in recent years. In relation to this, conducting a narrative review helps provide a better understanding of the adaptive functioning of depressed older adults and the significance of interventions in reducing depression. This narrative review investigates the nurses’ management of depressed older adult patients. It also presents a detailed investigation of the barriers preventing nurses from successfully implementing nursing care for older adults.

Methods

A narrative literature review was performed on four electronic databases, namely, (i) Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, (ii) Pubmed, (iii) PsycINFO and (iv) Taylor and Francis. English language and peer‐reviewed journal articles were included.

Results

A total of 19 articles were selected for the review, and four main themes were generated: (i) the challenges in implementing depression care management, (ii) the role of social support in depression treatment, (iii) the pharmacological management approach and (iv) the health care management process.

Conclusion

Nurses experience several challenges in implementing depression care management. The role of social support in the treatment of depression, pharmacological management and different types of health care management strategies all provide solutions for depressed older adults. The review findings provide insights for improving health care nursing services for depressed older adults and reducing the negative health outcomes in this population.
Role of CaMKII and sarcolipin in muscle adaptations to strength training with different levels of fatigue in the set
Authors: Martinez‐Canton Miriam , Gallego‐Selles Angel , Gelabert‐Rebato Miriam , Martin‐Rincon Marcos , Pareja‐Blanco Fernando , Rodriguez‐Rosell David , Morales‐Alamo David , Sanchis‐Moysi Joaquin , Dorado Cecilia , Jose Gonzalez‐Badillo Juan , Calbet Jose A. L.
Published: September 2020

Strength training promotes a IIX‐to‐IIA shift in myosin heavy chain (MHC) composition, likely due to changes in sarcoplasmic [Ca2+] which are sensed by CaMKII. Sarcoplasmic [Ca2+] is in part regulated by sarcolipin (SLN), a small protein that when overexpressed in rodents stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and a fast‐to‐slow fiber type shift. The purpose of this study was to determine whether CaMKII and SLN are involved in muscle phenotype and performance changes elicited by strength training. Twenty‐two men followed an 8‐week velocity‐based resistance training program using the full squat exercise while monitoring repetition velocity. Subjects were randomly assigned to two resistance training programs differing in the repetition velocity loss allowed in each set: 20% (VL20) vs 40% (VL40). Strength training caused muscle hypertrophy, improved 1RM and increased total CaMKII protein expression, particularly of the δD isoform. Phospho‐Thr287‐CaMKII δD expression increased only in VL40 (+89%), which experienced greater muscle hypertrophy, and a reduction in MHC‐IIX percentage. SLN expression was increased in VL20 (+33%) remaining unaltered in VL40. The changes in phospho‐Thr287‐CaMKII δD were positively associated with muscle hypertrophy and the number of repetitions during training, and negatively with the changes in MHC‐IIX and SLN. Most OXPHOS proteins remained unchanged, except for NDUFB8 (Complex I), which was reduced after training (−22%) in both groups. The amount of fatigue allowed in each set critically influences muscle CaMKII and SLN responses and determines muscle phenotype changes. With lower intra‐set fatigue, the IIX‐to‐IIA MHC shift is attenuated.
Electroencephalogram frontal asymmetry changes during emotion‐eliciting tasks and parent–child interaction dynamics
Authors: Gartstein Maria A. , Warwick Haven , Campagna Allegra X.
Published: September 2020

Frontal Electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry during emotion‐eliciting tasks has been underexplored, and the current study considered changes in infant frontal asymmetry during positive and negative emotion‐eliciting tasks relative to baseline, consistent with the capability model. Importantly, variability in parent–child interaction factors related to task‐related EEG asymmetry changes was examined. Healthy infants participated in the Peek‐a‐boo component of the Laboratory Temperament Assessment Battery and the Repeated Still Face, with EEG data collected simultaneously. Asymmetry changes from baseline to Peek‐a‐boo and the second Still Face administration were considered with respect to parent–child interaction dynamics, coded utilizing an established scheme. ANCOVAs were conducted, with age and child sex as covariates, parent–child interaction factors as dependent variables, and Peek‐a‐boo/Repeated Still Face asymmetry changes from baseline as independent variables, dichotomized as either positive or negative in direction (i.e., associated with either a shift toward relative left or right frontal activation). Results indicated that groups based on changes in frontal EEG asymmetry from baseline to Still Face were associated with significantly different levels of reciprocity/synchrony, intensity, and directedness in mother–infant play exchanges. Results highlight the importance of understanding task‐related EEG activation and links with parent–child interactions, providing further support for the capability model.
Numerical and Experimental Study on Combined Seals With the Consideration of Stretching Effects
Authors: Peng Chao , Ouyang Xiaoping , Schmitz Katharina , Guo Shengrong , Yang Huayong
Published: September 2020

Combined seals, as a kind of reciprocating seals, are widely used in hydraulic systems. The combined seal usually contains two or more elements to achieve the sealing function. Not only the interference fit between the seal and the rod/groove should be considered, but the assembling parameters between the inner sealing elements are also essential to be investigated. Stretching ratio, as an indicator for the interference fit, usually exerts a significant influence on the sealing performance. However, in the studies of stretching effects on combined seals, the traditional axisymmetric modeling method will introduce the overstretching problems, resulting in large errors. To overcome this problem, this paper proposed a putter-movement method, where an extra putter is introduced into the model, and a mixed-lubrication theory was employed to study macro and micro characteristics among the sealing zone. As a typical kind of combined seals, the VL seal is utilized as the research object, and the material’s plastic effects are included in the reciprocating-seal modeling for the first time. The numerical results are compared with the experimental data, and good agreements are obtained. The proposed method is then employed to discuss the sealing characteristics under different interference-fit conditions systematically. The results indicate that the stretching mainly affects the contact pressure on the cavity side. Compared to the performance of the seal with the standard geometry, in the extra-stretching condition, the leakage is increased, but the friction is decreased.