bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct successional patterns and processes of free‐living and particle‐attached bacterial communities throughout a phytoplankton bloom
Authors: Xu Huimin , Zhao Dayong , Zeng Jin , Jiao Congcong , Yu Zhongbo , Wu Qinglong L.
Published: March 2020

Understanding the successional patterns of microbial communities during a phytoplankton bloom is crucial for predicting the compositional and functional stability of lake ecosystems in response to the disturbance of a bloom. Previous studies on bacterial communities associated with blooms have rarely studied the dynamics of these communities. The successional patterns of bacterial communities within different micro‐habitats (i.e. water column versus particles) and mechanisms that shape these communities that differ in composition and structure remain unclear.

We selected a eutrophic urban lake to investigate the succession of bacterial communities during a bloom. We divided the bacterial communities into free‐living (FL) and particle‐attached (PA) groups based on their different lifestyles. The amplicon‐based 16S rRNA gene high‐throughput sequencing technology was used to obtain bacterial community composition and phylogenetic structure.

Our study showed distinct successional patterns between FL and PA bacterial communities, and the two bacterial lifestyles showed different responses and resilience to the bloom, in terms of diversity and relative abundance of bacterial taxa. Alpha‐diversity of the PA bacterial community decreased during the bloom, whereas that of the FL bacterial community increased. More taxa in the FL bacterial community showed resilience after the disturbance than in the PA bacterial community.

The influence of phytoplankton blooms on the assembly of the bacterial community can be viewed as niche selection that led to the decrease in the relative importance of stochastic processes in shaping both FL and PA bacterial communities. This study shows the ecological significance of the bacterial community response to bloom events in lakes. It also shows that assembly processes differ for bacterial communities that have different lifestyles in lake ecosystems disturbed by phytoplankton blooms.
Establishment techniques affect productivity, nutritive value and atmospheric N2 fixation of two sunn hemp cultivars
Authors: Jaramillo David M. , Dubeux José C. B. , Vendramini Joao M. B. , Queiroz Luana M. D. , Santos Erick R. S. , Ruiz‐Moreno Martin , Garcia Liza , de Abreu Daciele Sousa , de Miranda Lucas Ramos , de Siqueira Michelle Cristina Fernando
Published: March 2020

Nitrogen fertilization is a common practice for sustaining forage production in forage systems in southeastern United States. Warm‐season annual legumes may be an alternative forage to warm‐season perennial grasses that do not require N fertilization. Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) is a fast‐growing, warm‐season annual legume native to India and Pakistan. The objective of this 2‐year study was to assess the herbage accumulation (HA), atmospheric N2 fixation (ANF) and nutritive value of sunn hemp. Treatments were the factorial arrangement of two sunn hemp cultivars (“Crescent Sun” and “Blue Leaf”), three seeding rates (17, 28 and 39 kg seed/ha) and seed inoculation (inoculated or non‐inoculated seeds), distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Crescent sun had greater HA (3,218 vs. 1764 kg DM/ha) and ANF (41 vs. 25 kg N/ha). Blue leaf had greater crude protein (CP) (188 vs. 176 g/kg) and in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM) concentrations (564 vs. 531 g/kg) than crescent sun. Non‐inoculated seed had greater CP than inoculated seed, 188 and 177 g/kg, respectively, and inoculation did not affect HA. Intermediate seeding rate (28 kg/ha) decreased HA (2002 kg DM/ha), while HA from high and low seeding rates (17 and 39 kg/ha, respectively) did not differ (2,863 and 2,615 kg DM/ha respectively). Planting non‐inoculated crescent sun at 17 kg/ha seeding rate is a feasible management practice to produce sunn hemp in subtropical regions; however, inoculation should always be recommended for proper establishment.
ENDOGENOUS SOURCES OF VOLATILITY IN HOUSING MARKETS: THE JOINT BUYER–SELLER PROBLEM
Authors: Anenberg Elliot , Bayer Patrick
Published: March 2020

This article presents new empirical evidence that internal movement—selling one home and buying another—by existing homeowners within a metropolitan housing market is especially volatile and a substantial driver of fluctuations in transaction volume over the housing market cycle. We develop a search model that shows that the strong procyclicality of internal movement is driven by the cost of simultaneously holding two homes, which varies endogenously over the cycle. The estimated model shows that frictions related to this joint buyer–seller problem substantially amplify cyclical price volatility in housing markets.
Synthesis of glass‐ceramics in the Na2O/K2O‐CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐P2O5‐CaF2 system as candidate materials for dental applications
Authors: Dimitriadis Konstantinos , Vasilopoulos Konstantinos C. , Vaimakis Tiverios C. , Karakassides Michael A. , Tulyaganov Dilshat U. , Agathopoulos Simeon
Published: March 2020

This study reports on the sintering behavior, crystallization process, and mechanical properties of novel glass‐ceramics (CGs) produced by the glass powder compact consolidation method. Substitution of K2O for Na2O and MgO for CaO was attempted in the parent glasses belonging to Na2O‐CaO‐MgO‐SiO2‐P2O5‐CaF2 system. Glass powder compacts were heat treated at various temperatures between 700°C and 900°C, taking under consideration the glass transition (Tg) and the crystallization peak (Tp) temperatures, which were experimentally determined for each investigated glass by thermal analysis (dilatometry and differential scanning calorimetry). The experimental results showed that sintering always preceded crystallization, regardless of the type of substitution. In the case of MgO substitution for CaO, crystallization was advanced in the range of 800°C‐850°C, resulting in the formation of an assembly of crystalline phases, such as diopside, fluorapatite, and wollastonite. The substitution of K2O for Na2O increased the activation energy for crystallization, shifting crystallization process to a high temperature region, with the formation of alpha‐potassium magnesium silicate, instead of wollastonite. The GCs produced had values of 22‐31 GPa regarding the modulus of elasticity, 5.0‐6.1 GPa concerning the microhardness, and 1.4‐1.9 MPa⋅m0.5 as regard the fracture toughness, which are similar to those of the human jawbone.
The role of psychosocial factors in predicting the formalized human milk donation to nonprofit milk banks
Authors: Shepherd Lee , Lovell Brian
Published: March 2020

Human milk donation is important for improving the development of preterm infants. However, despite the importance of donating the human milk, relatively little research has tested which factors predict this form of donation. This study assessed the association between the psychosocial factors and formalized milk donation to a nonprofit milk bank. This study used a cross‐sectional design. Breastfeeding mothers (N = 556) completed measures assessing altruism, pride, instrumental and affective attitudes, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, self‐efficacy, anxiety, and intention to donate human milk to a nonprofit milk bank. We also assessed whether participants requested additional information about donating the human milk. Instrumental and affective attitude, subjective norm, and self‐efficacy were positively associated with intention to donate milk. Self‐efficacy and intention were also uniquely associated with requesting the additional information. The intention to engage in the formalized milk donation to a nonprofit milk bank appears to be more likely if women view this action as beneficial, believe significant others support the action and think they have the ability to undertake this action. Women who think they have the ability to undertake this action and are willing to donate are more likely to request additional information. These findings might inform future experimental research and campaigns on the human milk donation.
Local environmental selection and lineage admixture act as significant mechanisms in the adaptation of the widespread East Asian pond skaterGerris latiabdoministo heterogeneous landscapes
Authors: Ye Zhen , Yuan Juanjuan , Zhen Yahui , Damgaard Jakob , Yamada Kazutaka , Zhu Xiuxiu , Jiang Kun , Yang Xin , Wang Wenwu , Wang Shujing , Liang Jingyu , Fu Siying , Chen Pingping , Bu Wenjun
Published: March 2020

Aim

Local environmental selection and lineage admixture have long been accepted as important adaptive mechanisms in adjusting widespread taxa to new environments. We studied a pond skater,Gerris latiabdominis, to explore the relative roles played by these two mechanisms in its process of adaptation to heterogeneous landscapes.

Location

East Asia.

Taxon

Gerris latiabdominis Miyamoto, 1958.

Methods

Mitochondrial (COI, COII) and nuclear (ddRAD‐seq) markers were sequenced from 202 individuals. Phylogenetic and phylogeographical analyses were conducted to reveal the population genetic structure. The demographical history was simulated by approximate Bayesian computation (ABC). The single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that may have been subjected to natural divergent selection among the populations were assessed, and the recent migration rates were estimated. Finally, shifts in suitable habitat from the last interglacial (LIG) to the present were predicted through ecological niche modelling (ENM).

Results

We found population structures inferred from both mitochondrial and nuclear genomes to be almost coincident and to correspond to temporal or spatial heterogeneity. The early Pliocene splitting event between the northern (NO) and southeastern (SE) groups is consistent with the ‘arid belt hypothesis’, followed by local environmental selection. Approximate Bayesian computation and gene flow estimation strongly suggested that the southwestern (SW) groups originated from a lineage admixture event between the SE and western (WE) groups and subsequently underwent ongoing gene flow from the SE group during the Pleistocene. The mito‐nuclear discordance pattern in the SW group was probably due to the ancient mitochondrial differentiation.

Main conclusion

Our results suggest that both local environmental selection and lineage admixture acted as significant mechanisms ofG. latiabdominisadaptation to heterogeneous landscapes in East Asia. Furthermore, this study showed that conclusions based exclusively on mitochondrial data might mislead taxonomic, phylogenetic and phylogeographical studies.
Associations between developmental trajectories of peer victimization, hair cortisol, and depressive symptoms: a longitudinal study
Authors: Ouellet‐Morin Isabelle , Cantave Christina , Paquin Stéphane , Geoffroy Marie‐Claude , Brendgen Mara , Vitaro Frank , Tremblay Richard , Boivin Michel , Lupien Sonia , Côté Sylvana
Published: March 2020

Background

Peer victimization has been associated with long‐lasting risks for mental health. Prior research suggests that stress‐related systems underlying adaptation to changing environments may be at play. To date, inconsistent findings have been reported for the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and its end product cortisol. This study tested whether peer victimization was associated with hair cortisol concentrations (HCC), and whether this association varied according to sex, timing, and changes in exposure. We also examined whether peer victimization differentially predicted depressive symptoms according to HCC.

Methods

The sample comprised 556 adolescents (42.0%; 231 males) who provided hair for cortisol measurement at 17 years of age. Peer victimization was reported at seven occasions between the ages of 6 and 15 years.

Results

Peer victimization was nonlinearly associated with HCC for boys only, whereas changes in peer victimization were related to HCC for boys and girls. Peer victimization predicted more depressive symptoms for all participants, except those with lower HCC.

Conclusions

Our findings provide further support for persistent dysregulation of the HPA axis following exposure to chronic adversity, of which the expression may change according to sex and the severity of victimization.
Sodium–glucose cotransporters: Functional properties and pharmaceutical potential
Authors: Sano Ryuhei , Shinozaki Yuichi , Ohta Takeshi
Published: March 2020

Glucose is the most abundant monosaccharide, and an essential source of energy for most living cells. Glucose transport across the cell membrane is mediated by two types of transporters: facilitative glucose transporters (gene name: solute carrier 2A) and sodium–glucose cotransporters (SGLTs; gene name: solute carrier 5A). Each transporter has its own substrate specificity, distribution, and regulatory mechanisms. Recently, SGLT1 and SGLT2 have attracted much attention as therapeutic targets for various diseases. This review addresses the basal and functional properties of glucose transporters and SGLTs, and describes the pharmaceutical potential of SGLT1 and SGLT2.
Hexyl aminolevulinate, 5‐aminolevulinic acid nanoemulsion and methyl aminolevulinate in photodynamic therapy of non‐aggressive basal cell carcinomas: A non‐sponsored, randomized, prospective and double‐blinded trial
Authors: Salmivuori M. , Grönroos M. , Tani T. , Pölönen I. , Räsänen J. , Annala L. , Snellman E. , Neittaanmäki N.
Published: March 2020

Background

In the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of non‐aggressive basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), 5‐aminolevulinic acid nanoemulsion (BF‐200ALA) has shown non‐inferior efficacy when compared with methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), a widely used photosensitizer. Hexyl aminolevulinate (HAL) is an interesting alternative photosensitizer. To our knowledge, this is the first study using HAL‐PDT in the treatment of BCCs.

Objectives

To compare the histological clearance, tolerability (pain and post‐treatment reaction) and cosmetic outcome of MAL, BF‐200 ALA and low‐concentration HAL in the PDT of non‐aggressive BCCs.

Methods

Ninety‐eight histologically verified non‐aggressive BCCs met the inclusion criteria, and 54 patients with 95 lesions completed the study. The lesions were randomized to receive LED‐PDT in two repeated treatments with MAL, BF‐200 ALA or HAL. Efficacy was assessed both clinically and confirmed histologically at three months by blinded observers. Furthermore, cosmetic outcome, pain, post‐treatment reactions fluorescence and photobleaching were evaluated.

Results

According to intention‐to‐treat analyses, the histologically confirmed lesion clearance was 93.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 79.9–98.3) for MAL, 90.9% (95% CI = 76.4–96.9) for BF‐200 ALA and 87.9% (95% CI = 72.7–95.2) for HAL, with no differences between the arms (P = 0.84). There were no differences between the arms as regards pain, post‐treatment reactions or cosmetic outcome.

Conclusions

Photodynamic therapy with low‐concentration HAL and BF‐200 ALA has a similar efficacy, tolerability and cosmetic outcome compared to MAL. HAL is an interesting new option in dermatological PDT, since good efficacy is achieved with a low concentration.
A novel research on isolation and characterization of Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae from Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, displaying black gill disease cultured in China
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Shi Chengyin , Wang Hailiang , Wan Xiaoyuan , Zhang Qingli , Song Xiaoling , Li Ge , Gong Miao , Ye Shigen , Xie Guosi , Huang Jie
Published: March 2020

In June 2019, massive mortalities of cultured Penaeus vannamei occurred in a local farm in Hainan Province, China. The diseased shrimp displayed evident black gills. Three bacterial strains 20190611001, 20190611007 and 20190611022 were isolated from hepatopancreas and gills of the diseased shrimp and identified as Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae based on the sequence analysis of 16S rRNA and toxR genes. These three isolates showed haemolytic activities. Of them, strain 20190611022 isolated from hepatopancreas was selected and processed for pathogenic analysis. The calculated median lethal dose (LD50) was 9.75 ± 4.29 × 105CFU/g (body weight) by challenging P. vannameivia reverse gavage. The diseased shrimp displayed enlarged hepatopancreatic tubules and sloughing of epithelial cells in tubular lumens. The strain 20190611022 was also characterized by the testing of API 20NE systems and antibiotic susceptibility. The results of disc diffusion test showed that strain 20190611022 was sensitive to chloramphenicol, compound sulfamethoxazole, cefoperazone, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime and cefuroxime. To our knowledge, this is the first report of isolation and characterization of Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae from natural diseased P. vannamei. Our findings can serve as a basis for further studies of its pathogenicity and provide technological support for disease controlling in shrimp aquaculture.
Associations Between Activities of Daily Living Independence and Mental Health Status Among Medicare Managed Care Patients
Authors: Albanese Anita M. , Bartz‐Overman Colin , Parikh, MD Toral , Thielke Stephen M.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Although there is a strong cross‐sectional association between dependence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and decreased mental health, it is largely unknown how the loss of specific ADLs, or the combination of ADLs, influences mental health outcomes. We examined the effect of ADL independence on mental health among participants in a large survey of Medicare managed care recipients.

DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 104,716 participants in cohort 17 of the Medicare Health Outcomes Survey, who completed the baseline and follow‐up surveys in 2014 and 2016.

MEASUREMENTS

Linear regression models estimated the effects of loss of ADL independence on change in Mental Component Summary (MCS) score.

RESULTS

In an adjusted model, loss of independence in eating, bathing, dressing, and toileting were associated with three‐ to four‐point declines in MCS, suggesting meaningful worsening. In a model that also included all six ADLs, loss of independence in each ADL was associated with declines in MCS, with the largest effects for eating and bathing. MCS decreased by 1.3 per each additional summative loss of ADL independence (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Loss of ADL independence was associated with large declines in mental health, with personal care activities showing the largest effects. Additional research can help to characterize the causes of ADL loss, to explore how older adults cope with it, and to identify ways of maximizing resilience. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1301–1306, 2020.
DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) dietary pattern and maternal blood pressure in pregnancy
Authors: Courtney A. U. , O’Brien E. C. , Crowley R. K. , Geraghty A. A. , Brady M. B. , Kilbane M. T. , Twomey P. J. , McKenna M. J. , McAuliffe F. M.
Published: March 2020

Background

High blood pressure (BP) in pregnancy is associated with significant adverse outcomes. In nonpregnant populations, the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is associated with reductions in blood pressure. The present study investigated the relationship between the DASH dietary pattern and maternal BP in pregnancy.

Methods

This is an observational study of 511 women who participated in the ROLO study (Randomized cOntrol trial of LOw glycaemic index diet for the prevention of recurrence of macrosomia), 2007–2011, Dublin, Ireland. Auscultatory blood pressure, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) measurements were taken. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated. Dietary intakes were recorded using 3‐day food diaries in each trimester. DASH scoring criteria were used to score and rank participants from low to high intakes of foods recommended in the DASH diet. Statistical analysis using analysis of variance and multiple linear regression were used to determine the relationship between maternal BP and DASH scores.

Results

Dietary intake more closely resembling the DASH dietary recommendations throughout pregnancy was associated with a lower DBP (mmHg) in trimesters 1 [B: −0.70; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −1.21 to −0.18] and 3 (B: −0.68; 95% CI = −1.19 to −0.17), as well as lower MAP (mmHg) in trimesters 1 (B: −0.78; 95% CI = −1.33 to −0.25) and 3 (B: −0.54; 95% CI = −1.04 to −0.04), controlling for body mass index, age, education, energy intake and intervention grouping.

Conclusions

The DASH dietary pattern was associated with lower maternal BP in pregnancy among healthy women without hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Despite the observational nature of these findings, the results demonstrate the potential for healthcare professionals to intervene to promote cardiovascular health in pregnancy.
Study of efficacy of microneedling and mesoneedling in the treatment of epidermal melasma: A pilot trial
Authors: Farshi Susan , Mansouri Parvin
Published: March 2020

Background

Melasma is a difficult to treat pigmentation disorder. However, some successes have been attained by microneedling. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of microneedling using meso‐depigmentation solution (mesoneedling) in comparison with standard microneedling, over a 4‐month treatment period.

Methods

As a part of this pilot study, 20 patients received microneedling on one side and mesoneedling on another side of their face. Treatment was repeated on a monthly basis for 4 months. Treatment efficacy was defined through Dermacatch® colorimetry, modified Melasma Area and Severity (mMASI) score determination, Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), and patient questionnaires, whereby all assessments were conducted at the baseline, as well after 2 and 4 months of treatment.

Results

Before treatments, mean difference between pigmented and normal skin calculated by Dermacatch® was 43.7 ± 20.12 and 44.6 ± 20.72 in microneedling sides and mesoneedling sides, respectively. After two and four sessions, these values declined to 34.5 ± 16.26 and 28.05 ± 13.79 on the side subjected to microneedling, while 29.75 ± 15.07 and 20.45 ± 10.58 were measured on the mesoneedling side. Statistically significant differences have been observed between microneedling and mesoneedling treatments at both time points (P = .0001, P = .0001). The mMASI scores obtained upon treatment completion were significantly lower on both the microneedling and the mesoneedling side. The IGA and patients' self‐assessment scores further confirmed that both treatments were effective in treating melasma, without producing any notable side‐effects or complications.

Conclusion

In sum, both microneedling and mesoneedling are effective in decreasing melanin content in the epidermal melasma lesions.
Excessive screen time is associated with maternal rejection behaviours in pre‐school children
Authors: Erat Nergiz Meryem , Çaylan Nilgün , Yalçin Sıddika Songül , Oflu Ayşe , Tezol Özlem , Foto Özdemir Dilşad , Çiçek Şeyma , Yıldız Deniz
Published: March 2020

Aim

Early childhood screen exposure leads to multiple adverse health events and parents have a major influence on their children's screen time. Our aim was to determine the association between maternal acceptance–rejection/control behaviours and excessive screen exposure in pre‐school children.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional descriptive study, children aged 2–5 years who had daily screen time <1 h (n = 76) and >4 h (n = 62) were enrolled. A structured survey form and Parental Acceptance–Rejection/Control Questionnaire were completed by mothers.

Results

Total rejection scores were found to be lower in those with screen time <1 h than cases with >4 h (82.7 ± 13.2, 89.3 ± 17.2; P = 0.015). In addition, higher hostility, neglect and reverse‐affection scores were detected in excessive screen‐exposed group (P = 0.033, P = 0.003, P = 0.047, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that mothers' low acceptance of their children and high neglect score were associated with excessive screen exposure after adjusting possible confounding factors. The undifferentiated rejection and control behaviours of the mothers had no association with excessive screen exposure.

Conclusion

Children with excessive screen time may have a problematic relationship with their mothers. The relationship between parent and child should be examined and corrective actions should be taken.
Renal protection of rhein against 5/6 nephrectomied-induced chronic kidney disease: role of SIRT3-FOXO3α signalling pathway
Authors: Wu Xiaoxiao , Liu Meiyou , Wei Guo , Guan Yue , Duan Jialin , Xi Miaomiao , Wang Jingwen
Published: March 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to investigate the antifibrosis and anti-oxidation of rhein in vivo and in vitro, and to evaluate potential mechanisms involved in the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

In experimental animal studies, CKD was established by 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6Nx). Serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were determined. Histopathologic tests were performed by HE and Masson trichrome stained. The level of ROS was investigated by fluorescence microplate with the probe 2′, 7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA). The protein expressions of p47phox and gp91phox were measured in 5/6Nx rats. In HK-2 cells, the expression of SIRT3 and Foxo3α was measured in SIRT3 knockdown conditions. The indicators of oxidation and fibrosisi were measured in SIRT3 knockdown conditions.

Key findings

The results showed that, in addition to reducing renal interstitial pathologic injury and collagen fibrils, rhein administration improved renal function. The protective mechanisms were attributed to active SIRT3/FOXO3α signalling pathway and then play the anti-oxidative capacity of rhein, as well as to subsequent antifibrotic effect.

Conclusion

Taken together, rhein protected kidney through SIRT3/FOXO3a involvement. The anti-oxidative capacity of rhein contributed to the protective effects including the subsequent antifibrotic responses.
Snack food consumption among Bangladeshi children, supplementary data from a large RCT
Authors: Jannat Kaniz , Luby Stephen P. , Unicomb Leanne , Rahman Mahbubur , Winch Peter J. , Hossain Md. Iqbal , Stewart Christine P.
Published: March 2020

Childhood obesity has been associated with consumption of energy‐dense foods such as caloric beverages and fast foods. Many low‐ and middle‐income countries like Bangladesh are now experiencing a rising problem of noncommunicable diseases along with the long‐standing problem of stunting and undernutrition. WASH Benefits Bangladesh was a large community‐based cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in rural Bangladesh. Study clusters were randomized into seven arms: single nutrition (N); water (W); sanitation (S); hygiene (H); combined water, sanitation, and hygiene (WSH); WSH and nutrition (N + WSH); and a double sized control (C). Nutrition intervention messages included four promotional components: maternal nutrition, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and lipid‐based nutrient supplements. The World Health Organization infant food frequency questionnaire (24‐hr recall and 7‐day recall) was administered at Year 1 and Year 2 of intervention. The likelihood of any snack food consumption was significantly lower (odds ratio 0.37: 95% confidence interval [0.28, 0.49]) in the nutrition intervention arms compared to the control arm in Year 2 follow‐up. In addition, in the water intervention arm, fewer children (about 50% less) consumed soft drinks, but not the other sugar‐sweetened beverages, compared with control in Year 2. There were no other differences between groups. Simple messages about balanced diet and feeding family foods were effective in lowering commercially produced snack food consumption of the young children in low‐income rural communities of Bangladesh. Provision of safe water apparently encouraged mothers to reduce offering unhealthy beverages to the young children.
Agricultural and empowerment pathways from land ownership to women's nutrition in India
Authors: Harris‐Fry Helen , Krishnan Sneha , Beaumont Emma , Prost Audrey , Gouda Sanghamitra , Mohanty Satyanarayan , Pradhan Ronali , Rath Suchitra , Rath Shibanand , Pradhan Shibnath , Mishra Naba Kishore , Allen Elizabeth , Kadiyala Suneetha
Published: March 2020

Land size is an important equity concern for the design of ‘nutrition‐sensitive’ agricultural interventions. We unpack some of the pathways between land and nutrition using a cross‐sectional baseline survey data set of 4,480 women from 148 clusters from the ‘Upscaling Participatory Action and Videos for Agriculture and Nutrition’ trial in Keonjhar district in Odisha, India. Variables used are household ln‐land size owned (exposure) and maternal dietary diversity score out of 10 food groups and body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) (outcomes); and mediators investigated are production diversity score, value of agricultural production, and indicators for women's empowerment (decision‐making in agriculture, group participation, work‐free time and land ownership). We assessed mediation using a non‐parametric potential outcomes framework method. Land size positively affects maternal dietary diversity scores [β 0.047; 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.011, 0.082)] but not BMI. Production diversity, but not value of production, accounts for 17.6% of total effect mediated. We observe suppression of the effect of land size on BMI, with no evidence of a direct effect for either of the agricultural mediators but indirect effects of β −0.031 [95% CI (−0.048, −0.017)] through production diversity and β −0.047 [95% CI (−0.075, −0.021)] through value of production. An increase in land size positively affects women's decision‐making, which in turn negatively affects maternal BMI. The positive effect of work‐free time on maternal BMI is suppressed by the negative effect of household land size on work‐free time. Agriculture interventions must consider land quality, women's decision‐making and implications for women's workload in their design.
Is boredom one or many? A functional solution to the problem of heterogeneity
Authors: Elpidorou Andreas
Published: March 2020

Despite great progress in our theoretical and empirical investigations of boredom, a basic issue regarding boredom remains unresolved: It is still unclear whether the construct of boredom is a unitary one or not. By surveying the relevant literature on boredom and arousal, the paper makes a case for the unity of the construct of boredom. It argues, first, that extant empirical findings do not support the heterogeneity of boredom, and, second, that a theoretically motivated and empirically grounded model of boredom (the functional account) supports the view that the construct of boredom is a unitary one.
Extinguishing FIRES using tocilizumab
Authors: Chee Yong Chuan , Lim Chong Hong , Abdul Halim Sanihah , Ong Beng Hooi
Published: March 2020

Febrile infection–related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES) is a devastating epileptic encephalopathy with antecedent febrile infection preceding the onset of refractory status epilepticus (RSE), without the evidence of structural, toxic, or metabolic cause. The pathophysiology of FIRES is largely unknown but has been hypothesized to be due to excessive cytokine release perpetuating the underlying seizure. Conventional immunotherapies such as steroid, IVIG, plasma exchange, and rituximab have previously been considered for the treatment of FIRES but have been disappointing. We report a successful therapeutic encounter using tocilizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against interleukin‐6 receptor to treat RSE in a 14‐year‐old girl with FIRES following dismal outcome using conventional immunosuppressive strategies. The overproduction of cytokines and the poor performance of immunotherapies implicate a putative role of inflammation in FIRES. Our case showed that complete termination of RSE was achieved after tocilizumab administration suggesting it may be a lifesaving drug for this catastrophic condition.
Urocortin 1: A putative excitatory neurotransmitter in the enteric nervous system
Authors: Yamato Shigeru , Kurematsu Ayako , Amano Tomofumi , Ariga Hajime , Ando Tetsuya , Komaki Gen , Wada Keiji
Published: March 2020

Background

Urocortin 1 (Ucn1), a stress‐related peptide, is a member of the corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) family and acts as a CRF1 receptor agonist. Ucn1 and CRF1 receptor immunoreactivity are present in the enteric nervous system (ENS), and Ucn1 elicits contraction of colonic muscle strips. Considering these findings, we have hypothesized that Ucn1 acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the ENS. The present study was conducted to determine whether exogenously applied Ucn1 causes contractions, whether it participates in neurally mediated contraction, and whether it is released from the ENS of the rat colon.

Methods

Isometric tension of the rat colonic muscle strips (middle to distal colon) in a longitudinal direction was measured. The effects of Ucn1 on phasic contractions were examined in the absence and presence of antalarmin (CRF1 receptor antagonist), tetrodotoxin (TTX), and atropine. The effects of antalarmin on electrical field stimulation (EFS)‐induced contractions were examined in the absence and presence of atropine. Ucn1 peptide in the bath solution was measured after EFS using an EIA kit.

Key Results

Ucn1 caused a significant and dose‐dependent increase in phasic contractions. These effects were completely inhibited by antalarmin, TTX, and atropine. EFS‐induced contractions were inhibited by antalarmin. Atropine markedly reduced EFS‐induced contractions, and antalarmin did not decrease these contractions further. EFS elicited a significant increase in the concentration of Ucn1 in the bath solution, and this increase was completely inhibited by TTX.

Conclusions and Inferences

These results suggest that Ucn1 acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the ENS enhancing the cholinergic neurotransmission.
A novel deep intronic COL2A1 mutation in a family with early‐onset high myopia/ocular‐only Stickler syndrome
Authors: Sun Wenmin , Xiao Xueshan , Li Shiqiang , Jia Xiaoyun , Zhang Qingjiong
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To identify the genetic defect causing early‐onset high myopia (eoHM)/ocular‐only Stickler syndrome (ocular‐STL) in a large Chinese family.

Methods

Genomic DNA and clinical data from a four‐generation family with eoHM/ocular‐STL were collected. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed on one affected member in initial screening. Linkage scan based on microsatellite markers was carried out initially from candidate loci associated with autosomal dominant eoHM and Stickler syndrome. Sanger sequencing was used to detect potential variants. The pathogenicity of candidate variants was evaluated using mini genes ex vivo.

Results

Eight patients and five unaffected members in the family participated in the study, in which the patients had high myopia with other variable ocular phenotypes but without extraocular abnormalities. Whole exome sequencing did not detect any potential pathogenic variant in all genes known to associate with the disease. The eoHM/ocular‐STL in the family was mapped to markers around COL2A1 by candidate loci linkage scan, with a maximum lod score of 3.31 for D12S1590 at θ = 0. A novel deep intronic variant, c.86‐50C > G in intron 1 of COL2A1, was detected by Sanger sequencing and co‐segregated with eoHM/ocular‐STL in the family. Ex vivo splicing test using mini genes confirmed that the variant created a new splicing acceptor 49 bp before the canonical splicing site of exon 2, resulted in addition of 49 bp fragment in the transcript (from c.86‐49 to c.86‐1) and premature termination.

Conclusions

Linkage study, bioinformatics prediction, and ex vivo transcript analysis suggest a novel deep intronic variant adjacent to 5‐prime of exon 2 of COL2A1, affecting exon 2 splicing, as a potential cause of ocular‐STL in a large family. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an intronic variant around exon 2 as a cause of ocular‐STL while a series of variants in the coding region of exon 2, a dispensable alternative‐splicing exon for extraocular tissues, in COL2A1 have been reported to cause Stickler syndrome‐related ocular phenotype alone.
Management of neonatal difficult airway emergencies in the delivery room
Authors: Lin Elaina E. , Nelson Olivia , Isserman Rebecca S. , Henderson Alicia A. , Rintoul Natalie E. , Lioy Janet , Javia Luv R. , Tran Kha M. , Fiadjoe John E.
Published: March 2020

Neonatal airway emergencies in the delivery room are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Etiologies vary, but often predispose the neonate to life threatening airway obstruction. With the recent expansion of fetal medicine programs, pediatric anesthesiologists are increasingly being asked to care for these patients. In this review, we discuss common etiologies of difficult airway at delivery, management tools and techniques, and surgical approaches.
The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Patients With Spinal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ahern Meghan M. , Dean Lindsay V. , Stoddard Carolyn C. , Agrawal Aakriti , Kim Kimin , Cook Chad E. , Narciso Garcia Alessandra
Published: March 2020

Background

Virtual reality (VR) technologies have been shown to be beneficial in various areas of health care; to date, there are no systematic reviews examining the effectiveness of VR technology for the treatment of spinal pain.

Purpose

To investigate the effectiveness of VR technology in the management of individuals with acute, subacute, and chronic spinal pain.

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched until November 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of VR were eligible for inclusion. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias for each study and the overall quality of evidence. Mean differences of outcomes were pooled as appropriate using random‐effects models.

Results

Seven RCTs with high risk of bias met review criteria. Quality of evidence ranged from very low to low quality. In patients with chronic neck pain, VR improved global perceived effect (GPE), satisfaction, and general health at short‐term follow‐up, as well as general health and balance at intermediate‐term follow‐up compared to kinematic training. VR improved pain intensity and disability at short‐term and long‐term follow‐up compared to conventional proprioceptive training in patients with chronic neck pain. In patients with either subacute or chronic low back pain (LBP), VR improved pain, disability, and fear of movement compared to lumbar stabilization exercises and improved pain compared to conventional physical therapy (at short‐term follow‐up). In patients with chronic LBP, VR improved pain compared to lumbar stabilization exercises and improved fear of movement compared to conventional physical therapy (at short‐term follow‐up).

Conclusion

VR’s potential for improvement in outcomes for spinal pain that demonstrated statistical and/or clinical significance (pain intensity, disability, fear of movement, GPE, patient satisfaction, general health status, and balance) highlights the need for more focused, higher‐quality research on the efficacy and effectiveness of VR for treatment of patients with spinal pain.
A novel strigolactone‐miR156 module controls stomatal behaviour during drought recovery
Authors: Visentin Ivan , Pagliarani Chiara , Deva Eleonora , Caracci Alessio , Turečková Veronika , Novák Ondrej , Lovisolo Claudio , Schubert Andrea , Cardinale Francesca
Published: March 2020

miR156 is a conserved microRNA whose role and induction mechanisms under stress are poorly known. Strigolactones are phytohormones needed in shoots for drought acclimation. They promote stomatal closure ABA‐dependently and independently; however, downstream effectors for the former have not been identified. Linkage between miR156 and strigolactones under stress has not been reported. We compared ABA accumulation and sensitivity as well as performances of wt and miR156‐overexpressing (miR156‐oe) tomato plants during drought. We also quantified miR156 levels in wt, strigolactone‐depleted and strigolactone‐treated plants, exposed to drought stress. Under irrigated conditions, miR156 overexpression and strigolactone treatment led to lower stomatal conductance and higher ABA sensitivity. Exogenous strigolactones were sufficient for miR156 accumulation in leaves, while endogenous strigolactones were required for miR156 induction by drought. The “after‐effect” of drought, by which stomata do not completely re‐open after rewatering, was enhanced by both strigolactones and miR156. The transcript profiles of several miR156 targets were altered in strigolactone‐depleted plants. Our results show that strigolactones act as a molecular link between drought and miR156 in tomato, and identify miR156 as a mediator of ABA‐dependent effect of strigolactones on the after‐effect of drought on stomata. Thus, we provide insights into both strigolactone and miR156 action on stomata.
Pharmacokinetic analysis for model‐supported therapeutic drug monitoring of busulfan in Japanese pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients
Authors: Kishimoto Kenji , Hasegawa Daiichiro , Irie Kei , Okada Akira , Nakamura Sayaka , Tamura Akihiro , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Kozaki Aiko , Saito Atsuro , Ishida Toshiaki , Fukushima Shoji , Kosaka Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2020

This prospective observational study analyzed the pharmacokinetics of busulfan in Japanese children and evaluated the predicting accuracy of previous pediatric PPK models of busulfan. This study enrolled five patients (aged 2‐12 years, BW 14‐48 kg) receiving a busulfan‐based conditioning regimen for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation at our hospital between January 2017 and December 2018. All patients received a 2‐hour intravenous busulfan infusion four times daily for a total of 16 doses. After the infusions, 51 plasma samples were collected with the plasma busulfan concentration measured by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. PPK model fitting was analyzed using the (%MPE) and the (%MAPE). Limited sampling strategies for estimating busulfan AUC were also evaluated. High interpatient variability was observed in the PK parameters. The most suitable PPK model that reflected our data was McCune's two‐compartment model (%MPE −8.7, %MAPE 19.3). A combination sampling method using the busulfan concentration at 2 and 6 hours after the start of the first busulfan dose was found to be able to estimate AUC4 day. These results provide useful information on busulfan therapeutic drug monitoring in the Japanese pediatric population.
Imaging findings of Bowen's disease: A comparison between ultrasound biomicroscopy and conventional high‐frequency ultrasound
Authors: Li Ming‐Xu , Wang Qiao , Li Xiao‐Long , Zhao Chong‐Ke , Zhu Rui‐Zheng , Chen Jia , Li Liang , Guo Le‐Hang , Xu Hui‐Xiong
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To compare the imaging findings of Bowen's disease (BD) between ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and conventional high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS).

Methods

A total of 29 pathologically proven BD lesions in 28 patients were retrospectively enrolled in the study, and all were after surgery. All the lesions were imaged with both UBM and HFUS. The imaging features on HFUS and UBM were analyzed and compared. The diagnostic results of ultrasound for BD were referenced with pathology results.

Results

All the 29 (100%) BD lesions appeared hypoechogenicity, solid component, and superficial hyperechoic layer (ie, keratinization) on both UBM and HFUS. The typical imaging feature of BD lesions, that was, infiltration depth confined to the epidermis, was visualized in 25 (86.2%, 25/29) lesions on UBM whereas 15 (51.7%, 15/29) on HFUS (P = .002). A “wave sign,” which corresponds to the surface keratinization of BD lesion, was visualized in 17 (58.6%, 17/29) of BD lesions on UBM whereas 6 (20.7%, 6/29) on HFUS (P = .001). UBM and HFUS correctly diagnosed 25 (86.2%, 25/29) and 15 (51.7%, 15/29) BD lesions, respectively (P = .002).

Conclusions

Bowen's disease has some typical imaging features on US. The “wave sign” of the superficial hyperechoic layer and the clear borderline between the tumor in epidermis and the slightly hyperechoic dermis layer are better depicted by UBM in comparison with HFUS, which leads to a more accurate diagnosis of BD. UBM has potential to be used as a diagnostic tool for characterization of BD on account of its high resolution.
Analysis of facial redness by comparing VISIA® from Canfield and CSKIN® from Yanyun Technology
Authors: Chen Yanjing , Hua Wei , Li Anqi , He Hailun , Xie Li , Li Li
Published: March 2020

Background

Redness is the most common symptom among many facial dermatoses. With the rapid development of optical instruments, spectral imaging, and image processing technology, there appear varieties of skin color analysis methods and instruments. The aim of this study is to reveal the differences and correlations in measuring the facial redness between CSKIN® and VISIA®, as well as the relevance between the instrument parameters and clinical evaluation.

Materials & Methods

Forty‐three Chinese patients were enrolled. Images were taken and analyzed by VISIA® from Canfield and CSKIN® from Yanyun Technology, and the facial erythema was graded by the dermatologists.

Results

Feature counts within the red areas measured by VISIA® were found to have significantly positive correlations with red pixels and percent which were measured by CSKIN® on both sides of the face (r = .45 ~ .566, P < .01). The parameters analyzed by CSKIN® and VISIA® feature counts were correlated with visual scores graded by the dermatologists, VISIA® presented with a weak correlation (r = .213, P < .05), while CSKIN® had a moderate correlation with the visual scores (r = .472 ~ .492, P < .001).

Conclusion

CSKIN® may be another alternative option when encountering with measurement and follow‐up of facial erythema.
Electrical–structural characterisation of smart carbon‐based textile reinforced concrete beams by integrative gauge factors
Authors: Goldfeld Yiska , Yosef Lidor
Published: March 2020

The goal of this study is to characterise the piezoresistive capabilities of self‐sensory carbon roving reinforcements by means of integrative gauge factors (GFs). The correlation between the measured integrative electrical resistance of the carbon rovings and the distributed strain is experimentally investigated by two different textile reinforced concrete beams under monotonic flexural loading. Because the microstructural mechanism of the rovings within the concrete matrix affects the electrical resistance, the GF is a function of the structural health. Two approaches to explore the GF are suggested: the first is by considering the design and damaged states separately and accordingly defining a constant GF for each state, and the second is by considering the entire structural response which leads to a continuous non‐linear correlation. The potential of the two representations of GFs is presented by investigating the two beams. It is demonstrated that similar ranges of GFs are obtained for both beams, which further demonstrates the potential of using the proposed methodology for quantitative monitoring purposes.