bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unhealthy eating and weight dissatisfaction in adolescents who never, occasionally, or regularly use smokeless tobacco (Swedish snus)
Authors: Reas Deborah L. , Wisting Line , Stedal Kristin , Dahlgren Camilla Lindvall
Published: April 2019

Objective

Although cigarette smoking has been linked to weight‐related concerns and unhealthy weight control practices, little is known about weight dissatisfaction and eating among adolescents who use smokeless tobacco (SLT) products. The use of Swedish moist snuff (snus) has increased dramatically over recent years, surpassing cigarette smoking among young people in several countries. This study investigated differences in unhealthy eating behaviors and weight dissatisfaction in male and female adolescents who never, occasionally, or regularly use snus.

Method

Adolescents aged 16–19 years enrolled in high school (11th, 12th, and 13th grades) completed a cross‐sectional, online survey of adolescent health and well‐being. Meal skipping and snus use frequency were assessed in the total sample (N = 23,622), and items assessing weight dissatisfaction (n = 4,195) and eating‐related pathology (n = 3,563) were administered to subsamples. Analyses were adjusted for cigarette smoking, parental education, and socioeconomic status.

Results

Adolescents who used snus, especially on a daily basis, reported less regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner consumption. Females who used snus on an occasional basis reported significantly more disturbed eating pathology. Snus use was associated with weight dissatisfaction in males and females, manifesting differentially according to gender and snus use frequency.

Discussion

Unhealthy eating behaviors and weight dissatisfaction were significantly elevated among snus users aged 16–19 years. An increased awareness that occasional snus use may signal disturbed eating pathology among adolescent females is important for detection and prevention efforts. Parents, schools, and health professionals should be vigilant for possible snus use among weight‐dissatisfied adolescents.
Radioiodinated progesterone derivative for progesterone receptor targeting with enhanced nucleus uptake via phenylboronic acid conjugation
Authors: Gao Fei , Peng Chenyu , Li Jindian , Zhuang Rongqiang , Guo Zhide , Xu Duo , Su Xinhui , Zhang Xianzhong
Published: April 2019

A novel 131I‐radiolabeled probe with aromatic boronate motif (131I‐EIPBA) was designed to target progesterone receptor (PR)–positive breast cancer with enhanced nucleus uptake. Acetylene progesterone was conjugated with pegylated phenylboronic acid via click reaction and radiolabeled with 131I to afford 131I‐EIPBA. Meanwhile, 131I‐EIPB without boronate was prepared as control agent. After determination of the lipophilicity and stability of these tracers, in vitro cell uptake studies and in vivo biodistribution in rats were performed to verify the enhanced nucleus uptake and PR targeting ability of 131I‐EIPBA. 131I‐EIPBA was obtained with moderate radiochemical yield (40.35 ± 3.52%) and high radiochemical purity (>98%). As expected, the high binding affinity (39.58 nM) of 131I‐EIPBA for PR was determined by cell binding assay. The internalization ratio of 131I‐EIPBA was remarkably higher than that of 131I‐EIPB in PR‐positive MCF‐7 cells. Furthermore, the enhanced nucleus uptake of 131I‐EIPBA (0.59 ± 0.02%) was found to be significantly higher than that of 131I‐EIPB (0.13 ± 0.01%) in MCF‐7 cells. A novel 131I‐EIPBA compound was developed for PR targeting with improved cellular nucleus uptake. Furthermore, the introduction of aromatic boronate motif provides a worthwhile strategy for enhancing the nuclear receptor targeting of tracers.
Development and evaluation of lutein‐loaded alginate microspheres with improved stability and antioxidant
Authors: Huang Jin , Bai Feifei , Wu Yanchen , Ye Qingzhuo , Liang Dong , Shi Caihong , Zhang Xiangrong
Published: April 2019

Background

Lutein has been of great interest to the food processing and pharmaconutrient industries owing to its beneficial effects on human health. However, lutein is very sensitive to heat, light, pH and oxidative conditions, which limits its application in food systems. The present study aimed to prepare lutein–alginate microspheres by a calcium chloride gelation method with the purpose of improving the stability and antioxidant abilities of lutein.

Results

The loading capacity of lutein in the microspheres was approximately 5.3% (w/w) and the entrapment efficiency was about 63%. The loaded microspheres were nearly spherical with an average size of 150 μm. They exhibited a crimped surface by scanning electron microscopy. The lutein was in amorphous state by X‐ray powder diffraction. Analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and molecular docking revealed an intermolecular hydrogen bond interaction between lutein and sodium alginate. In vitro release experiments showed that the microspheres presented slower release at acidic conditions than at neutral intestinal conditions. The 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity of the microencapsulated lutein was higher than that of free lutein. The stability of lutein in the microspheres was improved significantly when compared with that of free lutein at various temperatures.

Conclusion

The present work successfully developed well‐protected lutein–alginate microspheres. This indicates that it is feasible to use microspheres loaded with lutein as antioxidant functional ingredients in food products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of climate change on aflatoxin M1 contamination of raw milk with special focus on climate conditions in Serbia
Authors: Milićević Dragan , Petronijević Radivoj , Petrović Zoran , Đjinović‐Stojanović Jasna , Jovanović Jelena , Baltić Tatjana , Janković Saša
Published: April 2019

Background

The impact of climate change has been identified as an emerging issue worldwide owing to potential effects that can provoke changes in the nature and occurrence of food safety hazards. Mycotoxins are a group of naturally occurring toxic substances produced by several genera of filamentous fungi, among which, primarily aflatoxins, fumonisins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes and zearalenone are of the greatest concern owing to their negative impact on human health, animal productivity and international trade.

Results

Extreme weather conditions such as floods and droughts which have not occurred previously in Serbia may be supporting factors for contamination of crops by various species of toxigenic fungi and their related mycotoxins. In this study, principal component analysis (PCA) and multivariate analyses were used as powerful tools allowing better understanding of the range of climate factors impacting on crop contamination by mycotoxins. Among the selected environmental variables, temperature and moisture significantly influenced aflatoxin production. Recent drought and then flooding confirmed that Serbia is one of the few European countries with very high risk exposure to natural hazards, as well as that mycotoxins are one of the foodborne hazards most susceptible to climate change. Thus climate change effects on mycotoxigenic fungi and mycotoxin contamination are now receiving scientific attention, especially from a risk analysis perspective.

Conclusion

This paper evaluates the available information on the influence of climate change on mycotoxin contamination, especially aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). In addition, this investigation should beneficially contribute to more accurate predictions of the regional risk from mycotoxins in future decades. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Organizational ambidexterity and customer relationship management: A cycle of virtue
Authors: Curado Carla , Oliveira Mírian , Antunes Marco
Published: April 2019

Ambidexterity is often addressed in literature at the strategic organizational levels. This article focuses at customer relationship management (CRM) level. This study provides an inductive qualitative research that is solution focused and contributes to management theory within a paradigm of design sciences. Results suggest the existence of a cyclical approach to customer knowledge management following a sequence towards integration and fit, what constitutes a theoretical contribution. Findings show different exploitation and exploration contribution levels across the continuous spiral interactions illustrating how to develop ambidexterity at CRM level. The research manages to reconcile academic and practitioner perspectives in the theory building and thus offering a model that is both well‐grounded in academic terms and relevant to practical needs.
Responses of bladder smooth muscle to the stretch go through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)/p90 ribosomal S6 protein kinase (p90RSK)/Nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) Pathway
Authors: Li Yaohui , He Minke , Lin Wenyao , Xiang Zhuoyi , Huang Jiaqi , Xu Peirong , Shi Yi , Wang Hang
Published: April 2019

Aims

The present study was designed to study changes and its potential mechanisms in human bladder smooth muscle subjected to stretch.

Methods

Bioinformatics analyses including differential expression analysis, overrepresentation enrichment analysis, principal component analysis, and weighted gene coexpression network analysis were used to analyze a microarray dataset (GSE47080) of partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) in rat to find the potential changes of gene expressions. Bladder from pBOO model and human bladder smooth muscle cells (HBSMCs) subjected to sustained prolonged stretch were collected for Western blot analysis, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and fluorescence analysis to verify the changes of gene expressions and preliminarily study the potential role of signaling pathway regulation in treatment of pBOO.

Results

The bioinformatics analysis showed that chronic obstruction activated mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway and changed cytoskeleton structure in bladder smooth muscle. In in vivo experiments in mice, pBOO was verified by cystometry. Partial BOO activated the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)/p90 ribosomal S6 protein kinase (p90RSK)/nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathway in DM. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of contractile phenotypic proteins increased after pBOO. In in vitro experiments of HBSMCs, mechanical stretch activated ERK/p90RSK/NF‐κB in HBSMCs in a time‐dependent manner. The mRNA expressions of α‐smooth muscle actin and SM22 also increased and filamentous actin (F‐actin) polymerization was enhanced as well. Inhibition of ERK/p90RSK/NF‐κB pathway reversed mechanical stretch‐induced changes of contractile phenotypic expression and F‐action polymerization.

Conclusions

Continuous stretch increases expressions of contractile phenotypic proteins and promotes the polymerization of F‐actin. This process partially goes through ERK/p90RSK/NF‐κB pathway.
An alternative avenue for high‐performance phenolic resin/graphene composite
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Cui Jian , Zhang Guangfa , Gao Ailin , Yan Yehai
Published: April 2019

Phenolic resin (PR) grafted graphene (G‐PR), synthesized from the versatile graphene modification platform 2‐(3, 4‐dihydroxyphenyl) pyrrolidine grafted pristine graphene (G‐OH), is used to develop high‐performance phenolic composites. Benefiting from good properties of G‐PR, uniform dispersion of G‐PR and strong PR/G‐PR interfacial interaction, G‐PR shows obvious advantages as a filler in improving mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of PR over pristine graphene (pG) and graphene oxide (GO) derivatives. For PR/G‐PR composites, the maximum tensile strength attains 51.4 MPa at 0.5 wt% graphene content. Electrical and thermal conductivities reach to 10−3 S·cm−1 and 0.374 W·m−1·k−1 at 5 wt% graphene content, respectively. The decomposition temperature and residue at 800°C separately increase by 61°C and 3.5 wt% at 1 wt% graphene content. In a word, this contribution provides an alternative avenue for preparing high‐performance and multifunctional PR/graphene composites, avoiding the high risk and serious pollution of graphene oxide (GO) avenue.
Synthesis and properties of fluorinated graphene oxide bisphenol a epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: .E Husamelden , Fan Hong
Published: April 2019

This study thoroughly studied the implements of fluorosilane modified graphene oxide (GO) on the mechanical, thermal, and water absorption properties of the epoxy composites built up by specific content of modified GO. Fluorosilane graphene oxide (GOSiF) was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffractometer. The epoxy composites tensile and bending modulus were increased by 11.46% and 62.25% with 0.1 and 0.5 wt% GOSiF loading, respectively. The good interfacial interaction was observed between epoxy matrix and GOSiF nanosheets under scanning electron microscopy. The thermal stability increases with GOSiF loading. Epoxy composite with 0.3 wt% GOSiF shows 5 °C increases in the T10%. The residual weight raised by 58.67% with 0.3 wt% GOSiF content. The water absorption study revealed small water uptake was obtained for all GOSiF composites. With 0.3 wt% loading of GOSiF, the maximum water content drops from 4.97% for neat epoxy to 1.98%. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1250–1257 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Study of temperature classification, spark ignition and drop test assessment on secondary cells for intrinsically safe equipment for explosive atmospheres
Authors: Ahirwal Bhagirath , Vishwakarma Rajendra K.
Published: April 2019

In any explosive atmosphere the cell/battery (pack of secondary cells) is used in handheld intrinsically safe (IS) apparatus. The cell is a rechargeable battery. Chemically similar cells of different makes were assessed for maximum surface temperature followed by the spark ignition test as per IS/IEC 60079‐11. It was observed that the maximum surface temperature, open voltage, and short circuit current varied among cells having the same maker and nominal capacity. The cells were not vented or leaked or exploded during the short circuit test for determining the temperature class of cells. The cells with protection circuit had passed in spark ignition test but failed without protection circuit. It may be recommended that the cell should not be used without appropriate protection circuit even in a low power rating certified IS circuit for hazardous areas. A study was also carried out for spark ignition test on different cells connected to the IS protection circuit and the certified IS apparatus as a composite circuit. Each cell was encapsulated along with IS protection circuit and endured drop test successfully. This study was revealed that cell(s) may be used with appropriate IS protection circuit for IS apparatus/equipment.
Advances in Quantum Dense Coding
Authors: Guo Yu , Liu Bi‐Heng , Li Chuan‐Feng , Guo Guang‐Can
Published: April 2019

Quantum dense coding is one of the most important protocols in quantum communication. It derives from the idea of using quantum resources to boost the communication capacity and now serves as a key primitive across a variety of quantum information protocols. This Progress Report focuses on the basic theoretical ideas behind quantum dense coding, discussing its development history from discrete and continuous variables to quantum networks, then to its variant protocols and applications in quantum secure communication. With this basic background in hand, then the main experimental achievements are reviewed, from photonic qubits and qudits to optical modes, nuclear magnetic resonance, and atomic systems. Besides the state of the art, finally potential future steps are discussed.
Perverse Incentives? Labor Market Regulation and Performance in the Public Sector
Authors: Chong Alberto , Cozzubo Angelo
Published: April 2019

We test the link between labor market regulations and job performance in the public sector using a novel outcome variable, namely, the number of days it takes the postal service to return letters sent to nonexistent foreign addresses, a measure that we argue is an excellent proxy for job performance. We find a positive and statistically significant link between these two variables, regardless of the labor regulation measure employed, changes in specification, and even unlikely endogeneity considerations, which suggest that this finding may be causal.
The Dollar and the United States' Exorbitant Power to Sanction
Authors: Zoffer Joshua P.
Published: April 2019

With the Trump administration's reimposition of financial sanctions on Iran, the power of the weaponized dollar is yet again making headlines—and putting distance between the United States and its allies. The dollar's special status as the world's key currency affords the United States an unrivaled sanctioning power. Because access to dollars is a near-necessity for multinational businesses and financial institutions, the United States can unilaterally impose costly sanctions by denying such access to a target—whether a state, company, or individual. This capability is one form of the “exorbitant privilege” afforded to the United States by the dollar's international role. This essay considers why the dollar's status affords the United States this sanctioning power and how the United States exercises it. I first summarize the nature of the dollar's role. Next, I explain the means by which the United States has weaponized that role, especially through financial sanctions. I conclude by offering some potential limitations on that power and exploring the ways in which other countries might seek to erode it.
The Efficacy of Targeted Sanctions in Enforcing Compliance with International Law
Authors: Hofer Alexandra
Published: April 2019

In the international legal order, sanctions are valued for their coercive and stigmatizing functions. Through the imposition of financial or other costs, these measures seek to induce compliance with international law by those who are targeted. They also aim to signal the sender's commitment to the violated norm and stigmatize an actor responsible for wrongful behavior. In light of these functions, this essay examines the factors to assess when evaluating the efficacy of unilateral targeted sanctions in enforcing international law. The issue is relevant not only for political scientists, but also for international lawyers interested in ensuring compliance with international norms.
Due Process Is in the Details: U.S. Targeted Economic Sanctions and International Human Rights Law
Authors: Chachko Elena
Published: April 2019

The United States has employed targeted sanctions—economic and travel restrictions imposed directly on natural and legal persons—in a wide range of policy areas in the past two decades. This includes counterterrorism, nonproliferation, and cyber, as well as sanctions regimes aimed at changing the behavior of various governments. A substantial literature has considered the compatibility with international human rights law of the targeted sanctions practices of other actors, particularly the UN Security Council and the European Union. But relatively few scholars have examined U.S. targeted sanctions practices from that perspective. This essay argues that in principle, current U.S. designation practices can be reconciled with international standards. However, a more robust conclusion about the practices’ compatibility with international human rights law would require more information on the application of designation procedures in individual cases.
Oral vancomycin prophylaxis during systemic antibiotic exposure to preventClostridiodes difficileinfection relapses
Authors: Caroff Daniel A. , Menchaca John T. , Zhang Zilu , Rhee Chanu , Calderwood Michael S. , Kubiak David W. , Yokoe Deborah S. , Klompas Michael
Published: April 2019

Objective:

To determine whether oral vancomycin prophylaxis accompanying systemic antibiotics reduces the risk of relapse in patients with history ofClostridioides difficileinfection (CDI).

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Patients:

Adult inpatients with a history of CDI who received systemic antibiotics in either of 2 hospitals between January 2009 and June 2015.

Methods:

We compared relapse rates in patients who started oral vancomycin concurrently with systemic antibiotics (exposed group) versus those who did not. We assessed for CDI relapse by toxin or nucleic acid testing at 90 days. We used inverse probability weighting and machine learning to adjust for confounders, to estimate propensity for treatment, and to calculate odds ratios for CDI relapse. We performed secondary analyses limited to toxin-positive relapses, patients with 1 versus >1 prior CDI episodes, and patients who received oral vancomycin on each antibiotic day.

Results:

CDI relapse occurred within 90 days in 19 of 193 exposed patients (9.8%) versus 53 of 567 unexposed patients (9.4%; unadjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60–1.81; adjusted OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.35–1.14). CDI relapses at 90 days were less frequent in exposed patients with only 1 prior episode of CDI (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.19–0.93) but not in those with >1 prior episode (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 0.42–3.33). Our findings were consistent with a lack of benefit of oral vancomycin when restricting results to toxin-positive relapses and to patients who received vancomycin each antibiotic day.

Conclusions:

Prophylactic oral vancomycin was not consistently associated with reduced risk of CDI relapse among hospitalized patients receiving systemic antibiotics. However, patients with only 1 prior CDI episode may benefit.
Rates and predictors of anti-depressant prescribing in Northern Ireland 2011–2015: a data linkage study using the Administrative Data Research Centre (NI)
Authors: Shevlin Mark , Rosato Michael , Boyle Stephanie , Boduszek Daniel , Murphy Jamie
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

Research indicates that anti-depressant prescribing is higher in Northern Ireland (NI) than in the rest of the UK, and that socio-economic and area-level factors may contribute to this. The current study provides comprehensive population-based estimates of the prevalence of anti-depressant prescription prescribing in NI from 2011 to 2015, and examined the associations between socio-demographic, socio-economic, self-reported health and area-level factors and anti-depressant prescription.

Methods:

Data were derived from the 2011 NI Census (N = 1 588 355) and the Enhanced Prescribing Database. Data linkage techniques were utilised through the Administrative Data Research Centre in NI. Prevalence rates were calculated and binary logistic analysis assessed the associations between contextual factors and anti-depressant prescription.

Results:

From 2011 to 2015, the percentages of the population in NI aged 16 or more receiving anti-depressant prescriptions were 12.3%, 12.9%, 13.4%, 13.9% and 14.3%, respectively, and over the 5-year period was 24.3%. The strongest predictors of anti-depressant prescription in the multivariate model specified were ‘very bad’ (OR = 4.02) or ‘Bad’ general health (OR = 3.98), and self-reported mental health problems (OR = 3.57). Other significant predictors included social renting (OR = 1.67) and unemployment (OR = 1.25). Protective factors included Catholic religious beliefs, other faith/philosophic beliefs and no faith/philosophic beliefs in comparison to reporting Protestant/other Christian religious beliefs (ORs = 0.78–0.91).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of anti-depressant prescription in NI appears to be higher than the prevalence of depressive disorders, although this may not necessarily be attributable to over-prescribing as anti-depressants are also prescribed for conditions other than depression. Anti-depressant prescription was linked to several factors that represent socio-economic disadvantage.
Use of nutritional information: analysing clusters of consumers who intend to eat healthily
Authors: van Buul Vincent J. , Bolman Catherine A. W. , Brouns Fred J. P. H. , Lechner Lilian
Published: April 2019

Consumers intending to eat healthily should consult available information on the energy, salt, sugar and saturated fat content of foods. Some consumers, however, do this more than others do. The objective of this research was to identify distinct subgroups within the group of consumers who intend to eat healthily, segmented according to the timing and frequency of their use of information about energy, salt, sugar and saturated fat. Furthermore, we analysed whether consulting this information actually led to healthier food choices. Data on use of specific nutritional information in a computerised task in which participants made multiple dichotomous food choices (e.g. high-fat v. low-fat cheese) were recorded from 240 participants using process tracing software. Participants could view nutritional information by hovering the mouse over specific areas of the screen. We found three clusters of participants based on use of information about energy, salt, sugar and saturated fat: low, medium and high information users. There was a between-clusters difference in how often the healthy option was chosen (88·95 % with high information v. 67·17 % with low information usage). Presence in the medium and high information clusters was partially predicted by perceived self-efficacy in making healthy choices. It appears that some consumers are very confident of their ability to make healthy choices, which is a reason for making less use of nutritional information prior to making food choices and may result in unhealthy choices. Our findings improve understanding of the conditions needed to develop effective interventions targeted at health-conscious consumers.
Marine Early Triassic Actinopterygii from the Candelaria Hills (Esmeralda County, Nevada, USA)
Authors: Romano Carlo , López-Arbarello Adriana , Ware David , Jenks James F. , Brinkmann Winand
Published: April 2019

A new locality for low-latitudinal, Early Triassic fishes was discovered in the Candelaria Hills, southwestern Nevada (USA). The fossils are derived from the lower Candelaria Formation, which was deposited during the middle–late Dienerian (late Induan), ca. 500 ka after the Permian-Triassic boundary mass extinction event. The articulated and disarticulated Osteichthyes (bony fishes), encompassing both Actinistia (coelacanths) and Actinopterygii (ray-fins), are preserved in large, silicified concretions that also contain rare coprolites. We describe the first actinopterygians from the Candelaria Hills. The specimens are referred toPteronisculus nevadanusnew species (Turseoidae?),Ardoreosomus occidentalisnew genus new species (Ptycholepidae), the stem neopterygianCandelarialepis argentusnew genus new species (Parasemionotidae), and Actinopterygii indet. representing additional taxa.Ardoreosomusn. gen. resembles other ptycholepids, but differs in its more angulate hyomandibula and lack of an elongate opercular process.Candelarialepisn. gen. is one of the largest parasemionotids, distinguished by its bipartite preopercle and scale ornamentation. Presented new species belong to genera (Pteronisculus) or families (Ptycholepidae, Parasemionotidae) that radiated globally after the mass extinction, thus underlining the striking similarities between Early Triassic (pre-Spathian) osteichthyan assemblages. The current data suggest that the diversity of low-latitudinal, Early Triassic bony fishes may have been greater than indicated thus far by the fossil record, probably due to sampling or taphonomic failure. All 24 fossils from the Candelaria Hills represent mid-sized or large osteichthyans, confirming the obvious absence of very small species (≤ 10 cm adult body length) in the beginning of the Mesozoic Era—even in low latitudes.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/6a66ac96-d6b7-4617-94db-5a93cdb14215
Association between serum magnesium and blood count: influence of type 2 diabetes and central obesity
Authors: Liu Danru , Yu Lianlong , Li Suyun , Zhang Qian , Zhu Lichao , Liu Qiangqiang , Lin Hong , Zhang Junli
Published: April 2019

The relationship between serum Mg and blood cell counts in Chinese adult diabetes or central obesity was assessed by investigating 8163 subjects with China Health and Nutrition Survey (mean age 59⋅6 years, 54⋅9 % men). Participants were classified according to blood Mg (below 0⋅65 mmol/l, or 0⋅66–0⋅94 mmol/l or above 0⋅95 mmol/l), type 2 diabetes (yes/no) and central obesity (yes/no). Leucocytes, erythrocytes, platelets (PLT), Hb and glycated Hb (HbA1c) were determined using standardised methods and conditions. HbAc1, leucocytes and PLT were significantly higher among subjects with central obesity than without central obesity (P < 0⋅05). A significant increase for Hb, erythrocytes, PLT, but not leucocytes, across progressive Mg groups was observed in subjects without diabetes (P < 0⋅05). Hb, erythrocytes and HbAc1 were significantly higher among subjects with higher Mg than in subjects with lower Mg with diabetes (P < 0⋅05). Central obesity disturbed the positive association between PLT count and serum Mg. Type 2 diabetes caused metabolism disorder in serum Mg, blood sugar and blood cell count. Hb, erythrocytes and PLT, but not leucocytes, are positively correlated with serum Mg, but this association is somehow disturbed by type 2 diabetes or central obesity.
A severe clinical phenotype of Noonan syndrome with neonatal hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in the second case worldwide withRAF1S259Y neomutation
Authors: Jaouadi Hager , Chehida Amel Ben , Kraoua Lilia , Etchevers Heather C. , Argiro Laurent , Kasdallah Nadia , Blibech Sonia , Delague Valérie , Lévy Nicolas , Tebib Néji , Mrad Ridha , Abdelhak Sonia , Benkhalifa Rym , Zaffran Stéphane
Published: April 2019

Noonan syndrome and related disorders are a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous conditions caused by mutations in genes of the RAS/MAPK pathway. Noonan syndrome causes multiple congenital anomalies, which are frequently accompanied by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). We report here a Tunisian patient with a severe phenotype of Noonan syndrome including neonatal HCM, facial dysmorphism, severe failure to thrive, cutaneous abnormalities, pectus excavatum and severe stunted growth, who died in her eighth month of life. Using whole exome sequencing, we identified ade novomutation in exon 7 of theRAF1gene: c.776C > A (p.Ser259Tyr). This mutation affects a highly conserved serine residue, a main mediator of Raf-1 inhibition via phosphorylation. To our knowledge the c.776C > A mutation has been previously reported in only one case with prenatally diagnosed Noonan syndrome. Our study further supports the striking correlation ofRAF1mutations with HCM and highlights the clinical severity of Noonan syndrome associated with aRAF1p.Ser259Tyr mutation.
Japan’s Washoku as Intangible Heritage: The Role of National Food Traditions in UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage Scheme
Authors: Cang Voltaire
Published: April 2019

“Washoku, traditional dietary cultures of the Japanese” was inscribed in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013, joining the company of French, Mexican, and Mediterranean “national” food traditions in the exclusive List. Although a relatively novel abstraction, washoku (literally “Japanese food”) was formally defined and recreated by a panel of government-appointed experts for inscription purposes.

This paper investigates washoku’s evolution into intangible heritage and the consequences of inscription. Analysis of field data from official meetings and primary text sources reveal that Japanese food heritage was both influenced and undermined by UNESCO’s intangible heritage system and the overriding precedent set by the “gastronomic meal of the French.” The example of washoku, though successfully inscribed, casts doubts on the feasibility of national food traditions in UNESCO’s system for intangible heritage, including their roles in promoting cultural diversity and heritage preservation.
Heart rate (variability) and the association between relational peer victimization and internalizing symptoms in elementary school children
Authors: Behnsen Pia , Buil Joanne Marieke , Koot Susanne , Huizink Anja , van Lier Pol
Published: April 2019

Relational victimization typically emerges first during the elementary school period, and has been associated with increased levels of internalizing symptoms in children. Individual differences in autonomic nervous system functioning have been suggested as a potential factor linking social stressors and internalizing symptoms. The aim of this study was therefore to examine whether heart rate and heart rate variability mediated the association between relational victimization and internalizing symptoms in 373 mainstream elementary school children. Children were assessed in 2015 (T0; Grades 3–5, M age = 9.78 years, 51% boys) and reassessed in 2016 (T1). Heart rate and heart rate variability were assessed during a regular school day at T1. A multi-informant (teacher and peer report) cross-time measure of relational victimization, and a multi-informant (self- and teacher report) measure of internalizing problems at T1was used. Results showed that heart rate variability, but not heart rate, mediated the association between relational victimization and internalizing symptoms. This study provides tentative support that in children from a general population sample, a psychobiological factor may mediate the association of relational victimization with internalizing symptoms.
Prevalence and risk factors of sleep apnea in adult patients with congenital heart disease
Authors: Harada Gen , Takeuchi Daiji , Inai Kei , Shinohara Tokuko , Nakanishi Toshio
Published: April 2019

Background:

Although sleep apnea is an important disorder associated with cardiac events, data regarding its prevalence and risk factors in adult patients with congenital heart disease are limited.

Methods:

In this study, patients underwent a sleep study in the hospital. Indications for admission were classified as heart failure, diagnostic catheterisation, interventional catheterisation, or arrhythmia. The prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of sleep apnea using a type-3 portable overnight polygraph in adult patients with congenital heart disease were evaluated.

Results:

There were 104 patients [median age: 36 (interquartile range: 28–48) years] who were admitted for heart failure 34% (n = 36), diagnostic catheterisation 26% (n = 27), interventional catheterisation 18% (n = 19), or arrhythmia 22% (n = 23). The prevalence of sleep apnea, defined as a respiratory disturbance index ≥5, was 63% (n = 63), with a distribution of 37%, 16%, and 10% for mild (5≤ respiratory disturbance index <15), moderate (15≤ respiratory disturbance index <30), and severe (respiratory disturbance index ≥30) sleep apnea, respectively. A large majority of the sleep apnea cases were categorised as obstructive sleep apnea (92%, n = 58). The respiratory disturbance index ≥15 group had a significantly higher proportion of male patients and higher body mass index, noradrenaline level, and aortic blood pressure than the group without sleep apnea (respiratory disturbance index <5). Multivariable analysis showed that New York Heart Association class ≥II (OR, 4.36; 95% CI, 1.09–20.87) and body mass index ≥25 (OR, 4.29; 95% CI, 1.32–15.23) were independent risk factors for a respiratory disturbance index ≥15.

Conclusion:

Our results showed a high prevalence of sleep apnea in adult patients with congenital heart disease. Its unique haemodynamics may be associated with a high prevalence of sleep apnea. Congestive heart failure and being overweight are important risk factors for sleep apnea. Management of heart failure and general lifestyle improvements will be important for controlling sleep apnea symptoms in these patients.
Age-Related Atrophy and Compensatory Neural Networks in Reading Comprehension
Authors: Fitzhugh Megan C. , Braden B. Blair , Sabbagh Marwan N. , Rogalsky Corianne , Baxter Leslie C.
Published: April 2019

Objectives: Despite changes to brain integrity with aging, some functions like basic language processes remain remarkably preserved. One theory for the maintenance of function in light of age-related brain atrophy is the engagement of compensatory brain networks. This study examined age-related changes in the neural networks recruited for simple language comprehension. Methods: Sixty-five adults (native English-speaking, right-handed, and cognitively normal) aged 17–85 years underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) reading paradigm and structural scanning. The fMRI data were analyzed using independent component analysis to derive brain networks associated with reading comprehension. Results: Two typical frontotemporal language networks were identified, and these networks remained relatively stable across the wide age range. In contrast, three attention-related networks showed increased activation with increasing age. Furthermore, the increased recruitment of a dorsal attention network was negatively correlated to gray matter thickness in temporal regions, whereas an anterior frontoparietal network was positively correlated to gray matter thickness in insular regions. Conclusions: We found evidence that older adults can exert increased effort and recruit additional attentional resources to maintain their reading abilities in light of increased cortical atrophy.
Biodegradable oesophageal stents: A potentially useful adjunct in the treatment of dysphagia in patients undergoing radiotherapy for oesophageal carcinoma
Authors: White K , Thampy S , Sheikh H , Bhatt L , Mullan D , Laasch H-U
Published: April 2019

Aim:

Dysphagia is common in patients presenting with oesophageal malignancy. This study aimed to determine the clinical effectiveness of biodegradable stents to help with malignant dysphagia due to radiotherapy for oesophageal cancer and furthermore to establish the complication and re-intervention rates associated with their use.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, observational study of 22 patients between 2008 and 2013. Complications within 2 weeks and episodes of re-intervention required within 4 months of stent insertion prior to radiotherapy were recorded.

Results:

Pre-stent insertion, the mean O’Rourke dysphagia score was 3·5 (median 3, range 2–5). This improved to a mean score of 2·8 (median 3, range 1–4) 1–3 weeks following stent insertion. Complications occurred in seven patients (32%) in an immediate 2-week period, including: pain (2), dysphagia requiring dilatation (1), food obstruction not requiring intervention (1), food obstruction requiring intervention (2) and upper gastrointestinal bleed not requiring intervention (1). Re-intervention was required in 18% within a 4-month period.

Findings:

We propose that biodegradable oesophageal stents are safe and may have benefit over self-expanding metal stents. We recommend they are placed alongside a radiologically inserted gastrostomy in a combined procedure prior to radiotherapy planning.
The ICRC as seen through the pages of the Review, 1869–1913: Personal observations
Authors: Forsythe David P.
Published: April 2019

The early years of theReview, then called theBulletin International des Sociétés de la Croix-Rouge, provide numerous insights into the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which edited the journal. Since the ICRC was very small in those days and without support staff, one learns a great deal, especially about Gustave Moynier, who led the organization and carried out most of the editing duties at theBulletin. The reader can trace the role of religious and other motivations, attitudes toward colonialism, the evolving nature of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and the ICRC's place therein, and complex relations with States. This early era, as richly recorded in the journal, stimulates a number of questions about further research into ICRC and Red Cross history.
Annual weed management in isoxaflutole-resistant soybean using a two-pass weed control strategy
Authors: Smith Andrea , Soltani Nader , Kaastra Allan J. , Hooker David C. , Robinson Darren E. , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: April 2019

Transgenic crops are being developed with herbicide resistance traits to expand innovative weed management solutions for crop producers. Soybean with traits that confer resistance to the hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase herbicide isoxaflutole is under development and will provide a novel herbicide mode of action for weed management in soybean. Ten field experiments were conducted over 2 years (2017 and 2018) on five soil textures with isoxaflutole-resistant soybean to evaluate annual weed control using one- and two-pass herbicide programs. The one-pass weed control programs included isoxaflutole plus metribuzin, applied PRE, at a low rate (52.5 + 210 g ai ha−1), medium rate (79 + 316 g ai ha−1), and high rate (105 + 420 g ai ha−1); and glyphosate applied early postemergence (EPOST) or late postemergence (LPOST). The two-pass weed control programs included isoxaflutole plus metribuzin, applied PRE, followed by glyphosate applied LPOST, and glyphosate applied EPOST followed by LPOST. At 4 weeks after the LPOST application, control of common lambsquarters, pigweed species, common ragweed, and velvetleaf was variable at 25% to 69%, 49% to 86%, and 71% to 95% at the low, medium, and high rates of isoxaflutole plus metribuzin, respectively. Isoxaflutole plus metribuzin at the low, medium, and high rates controlled grass species evaluated (i.e., barnyardgrass, foxtail, crabgrass, and witchgrass) 85% to 97%, 75% to 99%, and 86% to 100%, respectively. All two-pass weed management programs provided 98% to 100% control of all species. Weed control improved as the rate of isoxaflutole plus metribuzin increased. Two-pass programs provided excellent, full-season annual grass and broadleaf weed control in isoxaflutole-resistant soybean.
Atmospheric Acetaldehyde: Importance of Air‐Sea Exchange and a Missing Source in the Remote Troposphere
Authors: Wang Siyuan , Hornbrook Rebecca S. , Hills Alan , Emmons Louisa K. , Tilmes Simone , Lamarque Jean‐François , Jimenez Jose L. , Campuzano‐Jost Pedro , Nault Benjamin A. , Crounse John D. , Wennberg Paul O. , Kim Michelle , Allen Hannah , Ryerson Thomas B. , Thompson Chelsea R. , Peischl Jeff , Moore Fred , Nance David , Hall Brad , Elkins James , Tanner David , Huey L. Gregory , Hall Samuel R. , Ullmann Kirk , Orlando John J. , Tyndall Geoff S. , Flocke Frank M. , Ray Eric , Hanisco Thomas F. , Wolfe Glenn M. , St. Clair Jason , Commane Róisín , Daube Bruce , Barletta Barbara , Blake Donald R. , Weinzierl Bernadett , Dollner Maximilian , Conley Andrew , Vitt Francis , Wofsy Steven C. , Riemer Daniel D. , Apel Eric C.
Published: April 2019

We report airborne measurements of acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) during the first and second deployments of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Atmospheric Tomography Mission (ATom). The budget of CH3CHO is examined using the Community Atmospheric Model with chemistry (CAM‐chem), with a newly developed online air‐sea exchange module. The upper limit of the global ocean net emission of CH3CHO is estimated to be 34 Tg/a (42 Tg/a if considering bubble‐mediated transfer), and the ocean impacts on tropospheric CH3CHO are mostly confined to the marine boundary layer. Our analysis suggests that there is an unaccounted CH3CHO source in the remote troposphere and that organic aerosols can only provide a fraction of this missing source. We propose that peroxyacetic acid is an ideal indicator of the rapid CH3CHO production in the remote troposphere. The higher‐than‐expected CH3CHO measurements represent a missing sink of hydroxyl radicals (and halogen radical) in current chemistry‐climate models.
Inelastic Deformation of the Slochteren Sandstone: Stress‐Strain Relations and Implications for Induced Seismicity in the Groningen Gas Field
Authors: Pijnenburg R. P. J. , Verberne B. A. , Hangx S. J. T. , Spiers C. J.
Published: April 2019

Pore pressure reduction in sandstone reservoirs generally leads to small elastic plus inelastic strains. These small strains (0.1%–1.0% in total) may lead to surface subsidence and induced seismicity. In current geomechanical models, the inelastic component is usually neglected, though its contribution to stress‐strain behavior is poorly constrained. To help bridge this gap, we performed deviatoric and hydrostatic stress cycling experiments on Slochteren sandstone samples from the seismogenic Groningen gas field in the Netherlands. We explored in situ conditions of temperature (T = 100 °C) and pore fluid chemistry, porosities of 13% to 26% and effective confining pressures (≤320 MPa) and differential stresses (≤135 MPa) covering and exceeding those relevant to producing fields. We show that at all stages of deformation, including those relevant to producing reservoirs, 30%–50% of the total strain measured is inelastic. Microstructural observations suggest that inelastic deformation is largely accommodated by intergranular displacements at small strains of 0.5%–1.0%, with intragranular cracking becoming increasingly important toward higher strains. The small inelastic strains relevant for reservoir compaction can be described by an isotropic, Cam‐clay plasticity model. Applying this model to the depleting Groningen gas field, we show that the in situ horizontal stress evolution is better represented by taking into account combined elastic and inelastic deformation than it is by representing the total deformation behavior using poroelasticity (up to 40% difference). Therefore, inclusion of the inelastic contribution to reservoir compaction has a key role to play in future geomechanical modelling of induced subsidence and seismicity.
Ethnic Identity Exploration Among South Asian Immigrant Young Adults in New Zealand
Authors: Stuart Jaimee , Ward Colleen
Published: April 2019

The exploration of ego-identity is a normative process that is necessary for the development of an achieved identity, but how this relates to ethnic identity for immigrant youth is not completely clear. This research sought to test a model combining theories of ego-identity and ethnic identity development with South Asian immigrant young adults in New Zealand. It was hypothesized that moratorium (ego-identity exploration without commitment) would trigger domain-specific ethnic exploration, evident in relationships with both negative (ethno-cultural identity conflict [EIC]) and positive (ethnic identity search [EIS]) facets of ethnic identity exploration. In turn, EIC was hypothesized to be negatively related to ethnic identity achievement (measured as a composite of centrality, in-group ties, and in-group affect), whereas EIS was hypothesized to be positively related to ethnic identity achievement. Results indicate that the model fit the data well, χ2(1) = 0.72, p = .15, comparative fit index = 1.00, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = .96, root-mean-square error of approximation = .00, standardized root-mean-square residual = .01. These findings suggest that moratorium has a negative indirect effect on ethnic identity achievement (through EIC) and a positive indirect effect on ethnic identity achievement (through EIS).
FcγRIIb differentially regulates pre-immune and germinal center B cell tolerance in mouse and human
Authors: Espéli Marion , Bashford-Rogers Rachael , Sowerby John M. , Alouche Nagham , Wong Limy , Denton Alice E. , Linterman Michelle A. , Smith Kenneth G. C.
Published: April 2019

Several tolerance checkpoints exist throughout B cell development to control autoreactive B cells and prevent the generation of pathogenic autoantibodies. FcγRIIb is an Fc receptor that inhibits B cell activation and, if defective, is associated with autoimmune disease, yet its impact on specific B cell tolerance checkpoints is unknown. Here we show that reduced expression of FcγRIIb enhances the deletion and anergy of autoreactive immature B cells, but in contrast promotes autoreactive B cell expansion in the germinal center and serum autoantibody production, even in response to exogenous, non-self antigens. Our data thus show that FcγRIIb has opposing effects on pre-immune and post-immune tolerance checkpoints, and suggest that B cell tolerance requires the control of bystander germinal center B cells with low or no affinity for the immunizing antigen.