bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Millennial‐scale environmental changes in the northwestern Japan Sea during the last glacial cycle
Authors: Evstigneeva Tatiana A. , Cherepanova Marina V. , Gorbarenko Sergey A. , Shi Xuefa , Bosin Alexander A. , Utkin Igor V.
Published: December 2020

High‐resolution analyses of pollen and diatoms in core LV 53‐29 from the northwestern Japan Sea trace climate, vegetation and oceanographic changes during the past 120 ka. The age model for the core was based on tephrochronology, colour lightness and magnetic susceptibility and was used to aid correlation with Dansgaard‐Oeschger cycles (warm Greenland interstadials (GIs) and cold Greenland stadials (GSs)). The palynological and diatom data from this core record the changing influences of the East Asian monsoon, eustatic fluctuations in sea level, and the impact of variations in the direction and intensity of marine currents. Increases in Quercus and Cryptomeria pollen reflect GIs. The highest values of Cryptomeria were recorded during Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5 and were associated with an increase in the intensity of the summer monsoon. The increase in Larix pollen is an indicator of GSs, and it occurs in all marine isotopic stages. Changes in diatom records indicate that oceanographic conditions in the northwestern Japan Sea differed from its southern and eastern regions. An increase in the cold‐water and polyhalobous Rhizosolenia hebetata indicates GIs, although the surface water temperatures were colder than today with normal salinity. Species of the genus Chaetoceros, which is characteristic of GSs, were abundant during MIS 2. The predominance of Chaetoceros taxa and the high total abundance of diatoms may reflect regional upwelling conditions. The absence of brackish‐water species at this time indicates a slight freshening of the surface water. The study of pollen, spores and diatoms in sediments from the northwestern Japan Sea illustrates the great potential of these proxies for identifying abrupt climate oscillations preserved in high‐temporal resolution marine records, particularly those related to interstadial and stadial conditions.
The impact of anatomic, patient and surgical factors on membrane perforation during lateral wall sinus floor elevation
Authors: Pizzini Andrea , Basma Hussein S. , Li Peng , Geurs Nicolaas C. , Abou‐Arraj Ramzi V.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the influence of anatomical, patient and surgical factors on the occurrence of membrane perforation (MP) during lateral window sinus floor elevation (LWSFE).

Material and methods

A review of LWSFE patient records between 2014 and 2019 accounted for MP occurrence, window surface area (WSA), intravenous sedation use, osteotomy instrument type and clinician experience. Preoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were analyzed for lateral wall thickness (LWT), LFM and LAM angles formed between lateral and medial walls at the floor and anterior wall, respectively, sinus width at 5‐, 10‐ and 15‐mm (LM‐5, LM‐10 and LM‐15) from the floor, residual bone height (RBH), sinus pathologies, septa and arterial anastomoses. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) approach with a sandwich variance–covariance estimator was used to evaluate the associations with MP.

Results

MP occurred in 25.74% of 202 LWSFE procedures (166 patients). Mean 1.6 mm‐LWT, 3.2 mm‐RBH, 95°‐LFM, 75.5°‐LAM, 12 mm‐LM‐5, 20.79% septa, 16.83% arterial anastomosis, 37.62% sinus pathology and 29.21% intravenous sedations, 85.24% WSA ≥ 40 mm2 and 57% >10 procedures/clinician were reported. Greater MP rates were encountered as follows: 38.3% (LWT ≥ 1.5 mm), 38% (LFM < 90°), 59.6% (LAM < 70°), 45.4% (LM‐5 < 10 mm) and 36.4% (WSA ranged > 80 mm2), with statistically significant associations with all these outcomes (p < .05). The presence of pathologies was also associated with MP (p = .013). Associations between MP and the presence of septa and arterial anastomoses, age/gender, right/left sinus, RBH, clinician's experience, instrument type and intravenous sedation use could not be demonstrated.

Conclusions

MP is significantly associated with thicker lateral walls, narrower sinuses, larger windows and existing sinus pathology.
Using Concept Maps in Teaching Operations Management Courses
Authors: Essila Jean C. , Alhourani Farouq , Motwani Jaideep
Published: December 2020

Teaching quantitative subjects such as operations management (OM) can be quite challenging. In this article, we present a novel approach that uses simplified concept maps for teaching OM. This application of concept maps was investigated to determine if it helps students to answer questions and to solve OM problems more effectively. Our study used a controlled experimental design with students divided into two groups, one taught using concept maps and another group taught using traditional techniques. Student learning was measured with pre‐ and posttests consisting of both multiple‐choice and constructed‐response items. The performance of the two groups was compared using an independent samples t‐test and analysis of covariance to control for the covariate “pretest.” The results indicate that use of simplified concept mapping significantly improved student learning of OM course material. We therefore recommend its adoption as an active‐learning pedagogical technique that can lead to positive change in the OM classroom.
Undergraduate neurology teaching: Comparison of an inpatient versus outpatient clinical setting
Authors: Martins Isabel Pavão , Fonseca Ana Catarina , Pires Luísa , Ferro José M.
Published: December 2020

Background

Neurology is often perceived as a difficult discipline by medical students, yet it is an essential part of medical training. While the most common disorders of the nervous system can be observed in the outpatient setting, positive neurological signs are more likely to be found in neurology wards. We aimed to compare the impact of a neurology outpatient versus inpatient rotation setting on the grades obtained by medical students as a proxy measure of the learning outcomes.

Methods

We compared the results obtained by fourth year medical students in practical (OSCE) and multiple choice question (MCQ) exams in neurology, between students whose main (total of 24 h contact) teaching allocation was either the outpatient or inpatient setting, controlling for students’ gender, teacher, academic year and student’ previous achievement (measured by their scores on practical evaluation).

Results

A total of 1127 students were included, of whom 644 (57.14%) were allocated mainly to the neurology ward and 483 (42.86%) to the outpatient clinic. Students assigned to the ward obtained significantly higher grades in the OSCE and MCQ exams than those placed in the outpatient clinic. Teaching setting was an independent predictor of both classifications after adjustment.

Conclusions

The teaching setting had a significant impact on the learning outcomes. This may be due to a higher likelihood of observing abnormal neurological signs or to more student‐centered teaching on the ward. These results highlight the importance of a balanced distribution of students by different clinical settings.
Alveolar epithelial cell‐derived Sonic hedgehog promotes pulmonary fibrosis through OPN‐dependent alternative macrophage activation
Authors: Hou Jiwei , Ji Jie , Chen Xiang , Cao Honghui , Tan Yi , Cui Yu , Xiang Zou , Han Xiaodong
Published: December 2020

The alternative activation of macrophages in the lungs has been considered as a major factor promoting pulmonary fibrogenesis; however, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are still elusive. In this study, we investigated the interaction between macrophages and fibrosis‐associated alveolar epithelial cells using a bleomycin‐induced mouse pulmonary fibrosis model and a coculture system. We demonstrated that fibrosis‐promoting macrophages are spatially proximate to alveolar type II (ATII) cells, permissive for paracrine‐induced macrophage polarization. Importantly, we revealed that fibrosis‐associated ATII cells secrete Sonic hedgehog (Shh), a hedgehog pathway ligand, and that ATII cell‐derived Shh promotes the development of pulmonary fibrosis by osteopontin (OPN)‐mediated macrophage alternative activation. Mechanistically, Shh promotes the secretion of OPN in macrophages via Shh/Gli signaling cascade. The secreted OPN acts on the surrounding macrophages in an autocrine or paracrine manner and induces macrophage alternative activation through activating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Tissue samples from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients confirmed the increased expression of Shh and OPN in ATII cells and macrophages, respectively. Together, our study illustrated an alveolar epithelium‐dependent mechanism for macrophage M2 polarization and pulmonary fibrogenesis and suggested that targeting Shh may offer a selective and efficient therapeutic strategy for the development and progression of pulmonary fibrosis.
Spatiotemporal context and firm performance: The mediating effect of strategic interaction
Authors: Gu Jiafeng
Published: December 2020

Traditional studies of firm performance typically focus on the effect of market structure and rarely consider the impact of the spatiotemporal context in industrial competition. Using a sample of 1,555 listed companies from 2015 to 2018 in China, this study shows that the profit center of gravity tends to move from southeast to northwest, and that there are negative effects on firm performance with distance from the profit center of gravity. Moreover, when controlling for organizational variables, strategic interaction at the local level significantly mediates the relationship between spatiotemporal context at the global level and firm performance at the microlevel. This investigation provides preliminary support for strategic interaction as a significant mediator between spatiotemporal context and firm performance, and further highlights the relevance of spatiotemporal context and strategic interaction in determining firm performance. The results of this study contribute to our understanding of the dynamic mechanism of spatiotemporal context affecting firm performance and the role of strategic interaction at the local level in this relationship, which can improve the existing insights into new economic geography.
The influences of prompted voiding for urinary incontinence among older people in nursing homes
Authors: Siswoyo  , Lestari Cicik , Susanto Tantut , Rasni Hanny , Hakam Mulia , Ridla Ahmad Zainur
Published: December 2020

Research question: What are the influences of prompted voiding (PV) for urinary incontinence (UI) among older people in nursing homes? Research problem: This study aims to evaluate the effects of PV for UI of older people's subjects in nursing homes. Management of UI among older people is needed to overcome the possibility of new problem for older people. A randomized controlled study was performed of pre‐test post‐test design for 12 subjects (6 of control and 6 of intervention group). An intervention group followed PV instructions for 24 hours during 28 days, while the control group was instructed to urinate in toilet or to use diapers. Outcome variables were measured using incontinence severity index (ISI). There was statistically significant main effect across ISI among intervention group pre‐ (8.67 ± 1.97) and post‐ (6.67 ± 2.73) intervention of PV (P = .007). While there was statistically significant differenced ISI between control and intervention group (9.67 ± 1.86 vs 6.67 ± 2.73) post‐intervention of PV (P = .005). There was higher reduced ISI in the intervention group (∆M −2.00 ± 1.09) after 28 days of PV (P = .001). PV could be used to increase the older people's initiative to go to toilet and decrease incontinence episodes during a short time by their self in the nursing home.
Access to and exclusion from housing over time: Refugees' experiences in rural areas
Authors: Weidinger Tobias , Kordel Stefan
Published: December 2020

Taking the example of recognized refugees in rural Germany, and following the housing pathways approach, the paper addresses the complex interplay of individual and family‐related residential preferences over time as well as structural factors regarding access to housing and associated settlement and integration. Results are from a long‐term empirical study that encompassed both refugees’ and local actors’ views. Mechanisms and practices of exclusion that prevent refugees from accessing appropriate private housing are related to the negotiation of residential preferences about where and how to live, as well as to structural aspects such as the pattern of local housing markets, accessibility of infrastructures or the unwillingness of landlords to let to refugees. The paper concludes to highlight the role of place in housing trajectories and the significance of social resources within refugees' practices and local intermediaries' strategies to overcome exclusion and provision of access to rural housing.
NLR in eXile: Emerging roles of NLRX1 in immunity and human disease
Authors: Pickering Robert J. , Booty Lee M.
Published: December 2020

NLRX1 is a member of the NOD‐like receptor family, a set of pattern recognition receptors associated with innate immunity. Interestingly, NLRX1 exists in somewhat of an exile from its NLR counterparts with unique features that mediate atypical functions compared with traditional NOD‐like receptors (NLRs). Aside from a mitochondrial targeting sequence, the N‐terminal region is yet to be characterized. Mitochondrially located, NLRX1 sits within a subgroup of regulatory NLRs responsible for negatively regulating cellular inflammatory signalling. As well as modulating pathogen response, emerging evidence is implicating NLRX1 as a central homeostatic gatekeeper between mitochondrial biology and immunological response. More recently, NLRX1 has been implicated in a wide range of disease, both pathogen‐driven and otherwise. Emerging links of NLRX1 in cancer biology, autoimmunity and other inflammatory conditions are raising the potential of targeting NLRX1 therapeutically, with recent studies in inflammatory bowel disease showing great promise. Within this review, we address the unique features of NLRX1, its roles in innate immune signalling and its involvement in a range of inflammatory, metabolic and oncology disease indications with a focus on areas that could benefit from therapeutic targeting of NLRX1.
Update on the role of antiseptics in the management of chronic wounds with critical colonisation and/or biofilm
Authors: Alves Paulo J. , Barreto Ruben T. , Barrois Brigitte M. , Gryson Luc G. , Meaume Sylvie , Monstrey Stan J.
Published: December 2020

Biofilms play a major role in delaying chronic wounds from healing. A wound infiltrated with biofilm, or “critically colonised” wound, may become clinically infected if the number of microbes exceeds a critical level. Chronic wound biofilms represent a significant treatment challenge by demonstrating recalcitrance towards antimicrobial agents. However, a “window of opportunity” may exist after wound debridement when biofilms are more susceptible to topical antiseptics. Here, we discuss the role of antiseptics in the management of chronic wounds and biofilm, focusing on povidone‐iodine (PVP‐I) in comparison with two commonly used antiseptics: polyhexanide (PHMB) and silver. This article is based on the literature reviewed during a focus group meeting on antiseptics in wound care and biofilm management, and on a PubMed search conducted in March 2020. Compared with PHMB and silver, PVP‐I has a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity, potent antibiofilm efficacy, no acquired bacterial resistance or cross‐resistance, low cytotoxicity, good tolerability, and an ability to promote wound healing. PVP‐I represents a viable therapeutic option in wound care and biofilm management, with the potential to treat biofilm‐infiltrated, critically colonised wounds. We propose a practical algorithm to guide the management of chronic, non‐healing wounds due to critical colonisation or biofilm, using PVP‐I.
Theory of heat stress management: Development and application in the operating room
Authors: Byrne Jill , Ludington‐Hoe Susan M.
Published: December 2020

Aim

The Theory of Heat Stress Management addresses the phenomenon of occupational heat stress and applies the theory to surgical staff wearing personal protective equipment while performing surgery. This discussion paper relates development of the prescriptive middle range theory of heat stress management to inform and advance research and provide evidence to support new standards of care in clinical nursing practice.

Design

The prescriptive middle range theory was developed by summarizing essential elements of the theory, describing the linkages among the dimensions of the theory, enumerating nursing interventions and physiological, psychological and cognitive outcomes, stating relevant assumptions, defining and identifying relationships between the concepts of heat stress management in observable and measurable terms.

Data Sources

This discussion paper is based on the first author's experiences with occupational heat stress, observed improvements in surgical personnel's thermal comfort by using a cooling intervention and knowledge gained from an extensive integrated literature review and ongoing clinical research.

Implications for nursing

The middle range theory was developed to create awareness of the impact heat stress has on the health and well‐being of all healthcare personnel at risk for heat stress due to wearing personal protective equipment. Nurses need to recognize individuals in thermally stressful environments, evaluate and monitor individuals’ physiological and psychological responses and promote comfort by providing interventions to alleviate occupational heat stress.

Conclusion

The Theory of Heat Stress Management combines dimensions specific to heat stress affecting surgical staff and provides a perspective that facilitates knowledge development, can enhance nursing practice and support exploration of the linkages and prescriptions of the theory through research.

Impact

The predictive middle‐range Theory of Heat Stress Management will guide nurses to promote the health and well‐being of healthcare workers and influence and improve clinical nursing practice, education, and research related to heat stress management.
The relationship between work‐life balance, the need for achievement, and intention to leave: Mixed‐method study
Authors: Dousin Oscar , Collins Ngan , Bartram Timothy , Stanton Pauline
Published: December 2020

Aims

To examine the mediating role of employee well‐being on the relationship between work‐life balance practices, the need for achievement and intention to leave among nurses in Malaysia.

Background

Work‐life balance practices are associated with employee perceptions of the need for achievement and well‐being which subsequently influence their intention to leave the organization. This study contributes new knowledge to nursing studies on work‐life balance in an Asian and Islamic society where the expectations for women are to focus on family rather than career.

Design

A cross‐sectional, explanatory mixed methodology.

Methods

This is a two‐phase study conducted between 2015–2017 with 401 nurses in East Malaysia. In Phase 1, researchers surveyed 379 nurses to test eight hypotheses and in Phase 2 researchers interviewed 22 nurses to explore the results of Phase 1.

Results

Phase 1 revealed job satisfaction mediates the relationship between work‐life balance practices (e.g. flexibility and choice in working hours, supportive supervision), financial success, and intention to leave. However, life satisfaction and money as a motivator did not mediate such relationships. Phase 2 identified four important factors that cast light on survey results: working conditions of Malaysian nurses; inadequate compensation in the public healthcare sector; team‐based practices; and pressure on senior nurses in both administrative and clinical roles.

Conclusion

This is one of the first studies to investigate work‐life balance issues among nurses in Malaysia. Outcomes of this study extend the debates on work‐life balance and employee well‐being in an Asian Islamic social context.

Impact

The use of flexible working arrangements and collectivist teamwork approaches, improving compensation and employment benefits and eliminating the ‘time‐based job promotion’ policy may help to mitigate work‐life balance issues and intention to leave among nurses in Malaysia.
Epigean and hypogean drivers of Neotropical subterranean communities
Authors: Mendes Rabelo Lucas , Souza‐Silva Marconi , Lopes Ferreira Rodrigo
Published: December 2020

Aim

In addition to cave size and other subterranean habitat characteristics, cave entrances are important structurers of neotropical cave communities. However, little is known about the epigean ecosystems factors that might dictate the influence of entrances and the relationship among surface and cave communities, as entrance regions are ecotonal zones between the epigean and hypogean ecosystems. We aimed to assess the influence of epigean and hypogean factors as potential drivers of invertebrate species richness in Neotropical caves as well as the influence of the regional pool of invertebrate diversity on cave invertebrate diversity.

Location

Limestone caves in south‐eastern Brazil.

Taxon

Invertebrates

Methods

Data were collected in 48 caves within the Cerrado biome (Brazilian Savanna). The fauna sampling was performed by a direct intuitive search (DIS). Landscape characteristics and climatic parameters were accessed using geographic information systems. The characterization of the caves occurred during each sampling event. Regional diversity was based on the Taxonomic Catalog of Brazilian Fauna. To clarify the factors that significantly influence invertebrate species richness of the caves, we used generalized linear models (GLM). The relationship between regional diversity and cave diversity was evaluated based on linear models (LM).

Results

Overall, 1,173 species were found, of which 72 were obligate subterranean dwellers. The cave total species richness was influenced by hypogean factors and epigean factors. The species richness of obligate cave dwellers was significantly explained only by cave size. The regional pool of invertebrate species influenced the levels of biodiversity in the studied caves. The taxa with troglobitic species tended to be more diverse in caves than expected.

Main conclusions

In addition to the influences of intrinsic cave variables, we highlight the importance of epigean factors on subterranean diversity in the Neotropics. The study shows the significant influence of the regional species pool on cave faunal composition. These findings reinforce the importance of considering the surrounding areas in actions regarding cave biodiversity conservation.
RAD51AP1 promotes progression of ovarian cancer via TGF‐β/Smad signalling pathway
Authors: Zhao Hongyu , Gao Yan , Chen Qi , Li Jie , Ren Meng , Zhao Xiaoting , Yue Wentao
Published: December 2020

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the leading causes of female deaths. However, the molecular pathogenesis of OC has still remained elusive. This study aimed to explore the potential genes associated with the progression of OC. In the current study, 3 data sets of OC were downloaded from the GEO database to identify hub gene. Somatic mutation data obtained from TCGA were used to analyse the mutation. Immune cells were used to estimate effect of the hub gene to the tumour microenvironment. RNA‐seq and clinical data of OC patients retrieved from TCGA were used to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic values of hub gene. A series of in vitro assays were performed to indicate the function of hub gene and its possible mechanisms in OC. As a result, RAD51AP1 was found as a hub gene, which expression higher was mainly associated with poor survival in OC patients. Up‐regulation of RAD51AP1 was closely associated with mutations. RAD51AP1 up‐regulation accompanied by accumulated Th2 cells, but reduced CD4 + T cells and CD8 + T cells. Nomogram demonstrated RAD51AP1 increased the accuracy of the model. Down‐regulation of RAD51AP1 suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion capabilities of OC cells in vitro. Additionally, scatter plots showed that RAD51AP1 was positively correlated with genes in TGF‐β/Smad pathway. The above‐mentioned results were validated by RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. In conclusion, up‐regulation of RAD51AP1 was closely associated with mutations in OC. RAD51AP1 might represent an indicator for predicting OS of OC patients. Besides, RAD51AP1 might accelerate progression of OC by TGF‐β/Smad signalling pathway.
Feature selection, artificial neural network prediction and experimental testing for predicting breakage rate of maize kernels based on mechanical properties
Authors: Xia Guoyi , Xu Yang , Su Yuan , Gao Xiaojun , Li Yibo , Qiao Mengmeng , Yu Yingbo
Published: December 2020

The kernel breakage in harvest process is a significant problem which causes massive grain losses. In order to solve this problem, a possible solution is to predict the breakage rate and give suitable harvest time thus reducing grain losses. This study focused on using mechanical properties to predict breakage rate. Compression tests, compression–relaxation tests, insertion–retraction and stretch tests were conducted and 20 parameters were derived. Threshing tests were conducted to get breakage rate. As these parameters might be related and it is not practical to use massive parameters for prediction, the feature selection using neighborhood component analysis (FSNCA) was used for picking important parameters. The variables were compacted to an acceptable level by the FSNCA while various aspects of mechanical properties were included. The FSNCA determined the hardness of floury endosperm, rupture energy in vertical direction (x‐axis), allowable stress in lateral direction (z‐axis), hysteresis in x‐axis and elastic modulus in z‐axis as predictors. The artificial neural network (ANN) was built for prediction. The built ANN model showed an agreement in prediction results and real breakage rate (R= 0.98). The prediction error was ±1.7%.

Practical Applications

The mechanical properties were illustrated as potential indexes which can be utilized for predicting breakage rate of maize kernels in threshing process. The selection method reduced the dimension of predictors, which means fewer tests are required for prediction. As a result, this research proposed a possible solution for the prediction of maize breakage in harvest. Moreover, the prediction model can give guidance for optimal harvest time and thus reduce breakage rate in harvest.
Misrepresentation of contraceptive effectiveness rates for fertility awareness methods of family planning
Authors: Turner Joseph V.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Simplified contraceptive method‐efficacy and/or typical‐use effectiveness rates are commonly used for direct comparison of the various contraceptive methods. Use of such effectiveness rates in this manner is, however, problematic in relation to the fertility awareness methods (FAMs). The aim of this review is to critically examine current international representation of contraceptive effectiveness for the various FAMs in clinical use. This review also details important issues when appraising and interpreting studies on FAMs used for avoiding pregnancy.

Methods

Current international literature regarding contraceptive effectiveness of FAMs was surveyed and appraised. This included World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control (USA) resources, key clinical studies and recent systematic reviews. Chinese literature was also searched, since these data have not been reported in the English literature.

Results

Reliance on certain historical studies has led to the misrepresentation of contraceptive effectiveness of FAMs by perpetuation of inaccurate figures in clinical guidelines, the international literature and the public domain.

Interpretation of published study results for FAMs is difficult due to variability in study methodology and other clinical trial quality issues. Recent systematic analyses have noted the considerable issues with study designs and limitations.

Several non‐English published studies using the Billings Ovulation Method have demonstrated that a broader review of the literature is required to better capture the data potentially available.

Conclusion

A deeper understanding by clinicians and the public of the applicability of contraceptive effectiveness rates of the various FAMs is needed, instead of reliance on the inaccurate conglomerate figures that are widely presented.
Topical photodynamic therapy in the treatment of benign oral mucosal lesions: A systematic review
Authors: Romano Antonio , Di Stasio Dario , Lauritano Dorina , Lajolo Carlo , Fiori Fausto , Gentile Enrica , Lucchese Alberta
Published: December 2020

Background

The introduction of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in various branches of the dental field such as endodontics, implantology, periodontology, and restorative dentistry and oral medicine has become useful in recent decades. This systematic review presents an overview of the literature to evaluate the usefulness of topical PDT for the treatment of benign oral soft tissue lesions and to identify limitations in prior studies to improve PDT applications.

Methods

We performed a review of the literature using different search engines (PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) employing MeSH terms such as "Photodynamic therapy" and "PDT" in conjunction with other terms. We utilized the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study design (PICOS) method to define our study eligibility criteria.

Results

Initial results were 1513. Finally, there were only 21 studies that met our selection criteria. We divided the 21 selected items into two groups: inflammatory diseases and infective diseases.

Conclusions

Although topical PDT is an easy to perform and well‐tolerated treatment and appears to be a valid method with promising results in the treatment of benign lesions of the oral cavity's soft tissues, further studies are needed to complete the current knowledge of this technique.
Perception of traditional foods in societies in transition: The maize tortilla in Mexico
Authors: Sánchez‐Vega Laura P. , Espinoza‐Ortega Angélica , Thomé‐Ortiz Humberto , Moctezuma‐Pérez Sergio
Published: December 2020

Social and urban transformations have changed the ways of elaboration of traditional foods. Maize tortilla, the base of the Mexican diet, has experienced these transformations; nevertheless, in spite of being an emblematic food in Mexico, little is known about the perceptions by urban consumers. The aim was to analyze the perceptions about tortilla in urban consumers from three contrasting socioeconomic regions. A questionnaire was applied in some cities of northern, central, and southern Mexico to 1,156 consumers. A free word association technique was used as response to the word “tortilla”. Nineteen categories were grouped in 10 dimensions. Results showed there is a sense of national identity regarding maize tortilla; however, coexistence of postmodern and traditional perception is observed. Perception differed by zone according to sociocultural, historical and economic development. In the face of modernizing changes, consumers adopt new perceptions on traditional foods as is happening in many societies in developing countries.

Practical applications

Perceptions are related to sociocultural, historic and economic aspects. In modernizing processes, consumers adapt new perceptions about traditional foods. The associations with the maize tortilla, staple in the Mexican diet, showed several symbolic elements of the daily life of Mexicans. There is a sense of national identity towards tortilla, differentiated by zone. Understanding the perceptions by age and gender and zone of study, can be used to generate marketing strategies and public policy that favoring the development of rural areas and local economies towards traditional foods, as elements that enhance regional or local development.
Communication during the initial visit to a CPAP clinic Practitioners’ experiences of facilitators and barriers when talking to patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Broström Anders , Fridlund Bengt , Fossum Bjöörn , Pakpour Amir , Nilsen Per , Ulander Martin
Published: December 2020

Adherence to continuous positive airway pressure treatment for obstructive sleep apnea tends to be poor. Communication influences adherence but has not previously been investigated from a practitioner perspective, although shared decision‐making is known to be of great importance. The aim was to describe how practitioners experience communication with patients with obstructive sleep apnea during the initial visit at a continuous positive airway pressure treatment clinic, with focus on facilitators and barriers related to the 4 Habits Model, a communication model comprised of four types of interrelated skills to make encounters more patient‐centred: investing in the beginning; exploring the patient perspective; showing empathy; and investing in the end. A descriptive design with qualitative content analysis was used. A deductive analysis was carried out based on interviews with 24 strategically selected practitioners from seven continuous positive airway pressure treatment clinics. The 4 Habits Model was used as a framework for identifying facilitators and barriers to communication. Investments in the beginning was described as creating contact, showing the agenda and being adaptive, while explore the patient perspective included showing awareness, being explorative and creating a participating climate. Show empathy consisted of showing openness, being confirmative and creating acceptance, while showing a structured follow‐up plan, being open minded and invitational and creating motivation to build on were descriptions of invest in the end. Awareness of potential facilitators and barriers for patient‐centred communication during the beginning, middle and end of a continuous positive airway pressure treatment consultation can be used to improve contextual conditions and personal communication competences among practitioners working with continuous positive airway pressure treatment initiation.
Tibialis anterior electromyographic bursts during sleep in histamine‐deficient mice
Authors: Berteotti Chiara , Lo Martire Viviana , Alvente Sara , Bastianini Stefano , Matteoli Gabriele , Ohtsu Hiroshi , Lin Jian‐Sheng , Silvani Alessandro , Zoccoli Giovanna
Published: December 2020

Antihistamine medications have been suggested to elicit clinical features of restless legs syndrome. The available data are limited, particularly concerning periodic leg movements during sleep, which are common in restless legs syndrome and involve bursts of tibialis anterior electromyogram. Here, we tested whether the occurrence of tibialis anterior electromyogram bursts during non‐rapid eye movement sleep is altered in histidine decarboxylase knockout mice with congenital histamine deficiency compared with that in wild‐type control mice. We implanted six histidine decarboxylase knockout and nine wild‐type mice to record neck muscle electromyogram, bilateral tibialis anterior electromyogram, and electroencephalogram during the rest (light) period. The histidine decarboxylase knockout and wild‐type mice did not differ significantly in terms of sleep architecture. In both histidine decarboxylase knockout and wild‐type mice, the distribution of intervals between tibialis anterior electromyogram bursts had a single peak for intervals < 10 s. The total occurrence rate of tibialis anterior electromyogram bursts during non‐rapid eye movement sleep and the occurrence rate of the tibialis anterior electromyogram bursts separated by intervals < 10 s were significantly lower in histidine decarboxylase knockout than in wild‐type mice. These data do not support the hypothesis that preventing brain histamine signalling may promote restless legs syndrome. Rather, the data suggest that limb movements during sleep, including those separated by short intervals, are a manifestation of subcortical arousal requiring the integrity of brain histamine signalling.
Comparison of defence buzzes in hoverflies and buzz‐pollinating bees
Authors: Vallejo‐Marín M. , Vallejo G. C.
Published: December 2020

Bees and many flies, particularly hoverflies (Syrphidae), have evolved a diverse range of mechanisms to gather pollen from a wide variety of flowering plants. Bees and hoverflies use protein‐rich pollen as a food resource to mature reproductive organs and eggs and, in bees, to feed their larvae. A particularly striking pollen‐collecting behaviour involves the production of thoracic vibrations to dislodge pollen from flowers. Vibratile pollen collection is widespread in bees (>11 600 species) but extremely rare in flies (~1 species of hoverfly). Why the use of floral vibrations to collect pollen is so rare among flies is currently unknown. A hypothesis proposed to explain why flies do not engage in vibratile or buzz pollination is that they are unable to reach the vibration amplitude required to expel pollen from anthers. Here we document, for the first time, the mechanical properties of non‐flight thoracic vibrations produced by hoverflies and compare them to the vibrations produced by buzz‐pollinating bees under similar contexts (defence buzzes). We analysed ~4000 vibrations produced by nearly 300 individuals representing 20 species of hoverflies and 22 bee taxa, recorded using a miniature piezoelectric accelerometer. We characterised both frequency and acceleration amplitude components of non‐flight thoracic vibrations and their relationship to insect size. Our results show that, after accounting for size, buzz‐pollinating bees and hoverflies produce vibrations with similar acceleration. We show experimentally that the acceleration amplitude produced by some hoverflies is sufficient to elicit pollen release from buzz‐pollinated flowers (Solanum dulcamara and S. rostratum). Our study does not support the hypothesis that the dearth of buzz‐pollinating flies is caused by their inability to produce vibrations of sufficient amplitude. We discuss alternative hypotheses to explain why most flies do not engage in buzz pollination and suggest that the lack of buzz‐pollinating flies might be best explained through their life history.
The contribution of insects to African swine fever virus dispersal: data from domestic pig farms in Lithuania
Authors: Turčinavičienė J. , Petrašiūnas A. , Bernotienė R. , Masiulis M. , Jonušaitis V.
Published: December 2020

Outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) in domestic pig farms in Lithuania typically begin in June and are detected through October, suggesting that insects might be involved in the transmission of the virus. Entomological collecting was performed to obtain two data sets: from farms with ASF outbreaks, and from farms without ASF outbreaks but in an ASF‐infected area. Target insects from the families Muscidae, Calliphoridae and Tabanidae were analysed for the presence of ASF Virus (ASFV) DNA. Musca domestica L., Calliphoridae flies and Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) collected by entomological net during ASF outbreaks were confirmed to be ASFV positive. Viral DNA detected in insects collected by Nzi traps from farms with no ASFV outbreaks indicate that Culex, Lucilia, M. domestica and S. calcitrans are likely to play a role in spreading the ASFV mechanically. This finding could suggest contamination from outside of the farms: from infected wild boar or their carcasses. The role of Stomoxys flies as mechanical vectors could be accidental, because we did not find a significant correlation between the activity of S. calcitrans and the number of ASF outbreaks in pig farms, whereas temperatures positively correlated to the number of ASF outbreaks during 2018–2019.
Device‐associated health care‐associated infections: The effectiveness of a 3‐year prevention and control program in the Republic of Cyprus
Authors: Iordanou Stelios , Papathanassoglou Elizabeth , Middleton Nicos , Palazis Lakis , Timiliotou‐Matsentidou Chrystalla , Raftopoulos Vasilios
Published: December 2020

Background

Device‐associated health care‐associated infections (DA‐HAIs) are a major threat to patient safety, particularly in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a bundle of infection control measures to reduce DA‐HAIs in the ICU of a General Hospital in the Republic of Cyprus, over a 3‐year period.

Methods

We studied 599 ICU patients with a length of stay (LOS) for at least 48 hours. Our prospective cohort study was divided into three surveillance phases. Ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP), central line‐associated blood‐stream infections (CLABSI), and catheter‐associated blood‐stream infections (CAUTI) incidence rates, LOS, and mortality were calculated before, during, and after the infection prevention and control programme.

Results

There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of DA‐HAI events during the surveillance periods, associated with DA‐HAIs prevention efforts. In 2015 (prior to programme implementation), the baseline DA‐HAIs instances were 43: 16 VAP (10.1/1000 Device Days), 21 (15.9/1000DD) CLABSIs, and 6 (2.66/1000DD) CAUTIs, (n = 198). During the second phase (2016), CLABSIs prevention measures were implemented and the number of infections were 24: 14 VAP (12.21/1000DD), 4 (4.2/1000DD) CLABSIs, and 6 (3.22/1000DD) CAUTIs, (n = 184). During the third phase (2017), VAP and CAUTI prevention measures were again implemented and the rates were 6: (3 VAP: 12.21/1000DD), 2 (1.95/1000DD) CLABSIs, and 1 (0.41/1000DD) CAUTIs, (n = 217). There was an overall reduction of 87% in the total number of DA‐HAIs instances for the period 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017.

Conclusions

The significant overall reduction in DA‐HAI rates indicates that a comprehensive infection control programme can affect DA‐HAI rates.
A model for systems‐level influences on toddler immunization completion
Authors: McFadden SarahAnn M. , Sonney Jennifer , Bekemeier Betty
Published: December 2020

Toddler immunization completion rates vary across populations in the United States, and this variation may be contributing to the national rise in vaccine preventable diseases. Yet existing theoretical scholarship for improving toddler immunization uptake is largely focused on the individual level, neglecting the multiple system‐level environments that should be considered. Population characteristics are distinct from the sum of individual characteristics. Thus, a reformulation of the ecological systems theory is proposed to provide theoretical direction and guide future population health research regarding system‐level influences on vaccine coverage.
Exogenous methyl jasmonate promotes salt stress‐induced growth inhibition and prioritizes defense response of Nitraria tangutorum Bobr.
Authors: Gao Ziqi , Gao Shuai , Li Pengxuan , Zhang Yan , Ma Binjie , Wang Yingchun
Published: December 2020

Jasmonates (JAs) play a key role in the regulation of growth and the defense response to environmental stresses. JAs inhibit plant growth and promote defense response. However, their roles in desert halophyte in the response to salt stress remain poorly understood. The effects of the combination of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and NaCl treatment (the “MeN” condition) on the growth regulation and defense response of Nitraria tangutorum seedlings were investigated. Compared with NaCl treatment alone, exogenous MeJA aggravated the growth inhibition of seedlings by antagonizing to growth‐related hormones and suppressing the transcript levels of these hormones‐responsive genes, including gibberellin (GA)‐responsive NtPIF3, NtGAST1, NtGSAT4, and cytokinin (CYT)‐responsive NtARR1, NtARR11, NtARR12. Meanwhile, exogenous MeJA enhanced defense response and alleviated the stress damage by increasing antioxidase activity and antioxidant content, accumulating more osmolytes, maintaining lower Na+/K+ ratios in shoots and higher Na+ efflux rates in roots of plants. In addition, exogenous MeJA increased the contents of endogenous JA and ABA, and the transcript levels of genes involved in their biosynthesis and responsiveness, thereby further regulating the transcript levels of defense response genes. These findings suggest that exogenous MeJA increases salt stress‐induced growth inhibition and prioritizes the defensive responses (e.g. antioxidant defense, osmotic adjustment, and ion homeostasis) of N. tangutorum. These effects may be related to the amplification of jasmonic acid (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA) signals.
Combined effects of water stress and salinity on growth, physiological, and biochemical traits in two walnut genotypes
Authors: Wang Baoqing , Zhang Junpei , Pei Dong , Yu Lei
Published: December 2020

Due to its great economic value, walnut (Juglans regia L.) has received increasing attention during recent years. However, water stress and salinity limit walnut growth, production, and quality. We employed two walnut genotypes, precocious walnut, and late‐bearing walnut, to investigate their growth, photosynthetic capacity, non‐structural carbohydrate contents, Cl− allocation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and osmotic regulation under water stress, salinity, and their combination. We found that late‐bearing walnut showed higher total biomass and net photosynthetic rate, higher activities of antioxidant enzymes, higher osmoregulation, and lower ROS accumulation than precocious walnut under stressful conditions. In addition, late‐bearing walnut restricted salt transport and allocated more Cl− into roots, whereas precocious walnut allocated more Cl− into leaves when exposed to salinity stress. These data collectively demonstrated that late‐bearing walnut possesses better stress tolerance under water stress, salinity, and especially under their combination. Such knowledge of genotype‐specific responses and tolerances to water stress and salinity is important for walnut plantation management under increasing drought and aggravated soil salinization occurring with climate change.
Physical and social anhedonia are associated with suicidality in major depression, but not in schizophrenia
Authors: Sagud Marina , Tudor Lucija , Šimunić Lucija , Jezernik Dejana , Madžarac Zoran , Jakšić Nenad , Mihaljević Peleš Alma , Vuksan‐Ćusa Bjanka , Šimunović Filipčić Ivona , Stefanović Ivana , Kosanović Rajačić Biljana , Kudlek Mikulić Suzan , Pivac Nela
Published: December 2020

Objective

This cross‐sectional study investigated the association of physical and social anhedonia with suicidality in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), schizophrenia, and in non‐psychiatric controls.

Method

All participants completed the revised Physical Anhedonia Scale (RPAS) and the revised Social Anhedonia Scale (RSAS) and were subdivided according to positive life‐time suicide attempt history. MDD patients were evaluated with the Montgomery‐Ãsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), healthy respondents with the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), and schizophrenia patients with the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS).

Results

In 683 study participants, the prevalence of each anhedonia was the highest in MDD, followed by schizophrenia, and lowest in the control group. Among MDD patients, those with physical and social anhedonia had greater rates of recent suicidal ideation, while a higher frequency of individuals with life‐time suicide attempts was detected in those with only social anhedonia. In contrast, no association between either anhedonia and life‐time suicide attempts or recent suicidal ideation was found in patients with schizophrenia.

Conclusions

Assessing social and physical anhedonia might be important in MDD patients, given its association with both life‐time suicide attempts and recent suicidal ideation. Suicidality in schizophrenia, while unrelated to anhedonia, might include other risk factors.