bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequalities in Children's Experiences of Home Learning during the COVID‐19 Lockdown in England*
Authors: Andrew Alison , Cattan Sarah , Costa Dias Monica , Farquharson Christine , Kraftman Lucy , Krutikova Sonya , Phimister Angus , Sevilla Almudena
Published: November 2020

This paper combines novel data on the time use, home‐learning practices and economic circumstances of families with children during the COVID‐19 lockdown with pre‐lockdown data from the UK Time Use Survey to characterise the time use of children and how it changed during lockdown, and to gauge the extent to which changes in time use and learning practices during this period are likely to reinforce the already large gaps in educational attainment between children from poorer and better‐off families. We find considerable heterogeneity in children's learning experiences – amount of time spent learning, activities undertaken during this time and availability of resources to support learning. Concerningly, but perhaps unsurprisingly, this heterogeneity is strongly associated with family income and in some instances more so than before lockdown. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that any impacts of inequalities in time spent learning between poorer and richer children are likely to be compounded by inequalities not only in learning resources available at home, but also in those provided by schools.
The Economics of Lockdown
Authors: Besley Timothy , Stern Nicholas
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we suggest an approach to analysing policies relating to the COVID‐19 pandemic. We discuss the formulation of policy and sketch how the approach can be applied to different specific challenges as policymakers try to make difficult choices for managing the pandemic and protecting the economy and society.
Antibiofilm and antifungal activities of medium‐chain fatty acids against Candida albicans via mimicking of the quorum‐sensing molecule farnesol
Authors: Lee Jin‐Hyung , Kim Yong‐Guy , Khadke Sagar Kiran , Lee Jintae
Published: November 2020

Candida biofilms are tolerant to conventional antifungal therapeutics and the host immune system. The transition of yeast cells to hyphae is considered a key step in C. albicans biofilm development, and this transition is inhibited by the quorum‐sensing molecule farnesol. We hypothesized that fatty acids mimicking farnesol might influence hyphal and biofilm formation by C. albicans. Among 31 saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, six medium‐chain saturated fatty acids, that is, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid and lauric acid, effectively inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation by more than 75% at 2 µg ml−1 with MICs in the range 100–200 µg ml−1. These six fatty acids at 2 µg ml−1 and farnesol at 100 µg ml−1 inhibited hyphal growth and cell aggregation. The addition of fatty acids to C. albicans cultures decreased the productions of farnesol and sterols. Furthermore, down‐regulation of several hyphal and biofilm‐related genes caused by heptanoic or nonanoic acid closely resembled the changes caused by farnesol. In addition, nonanoic acid, the most effective compound diminished C. albicans virulence in a Caenorhabditis elegans model. Our results suggest that medium‐chain fatty acids inhibit more effectively hyphal growth and biofilm formation than farnesol.
Circadian variation in sudden unexpected infant death in the United States
Authors: Anderson Tatiana M. , Allen Kelty , Ramirez Jan‐Marino , Mitchell Edwin A.
Published: November 2020

Aim

To determine which factors are associated with sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) by time of day.

Methods

Data were analysed from the National Fatality Review Case Reporting System (2006‐2015). Out of 20 005 SUID deaths in 37 states, 12 191 (60.9%) deaths had a recorded nearest hour of discovery of the infant. We compared distribution patterns between time of death and 118 variables to determine which were significantly correlated with SUID time of death using advanced statistical modelling techniques.

Results

The 12‐hour time periods that were most different were 10:00 to 21:00 (daytime) and 22:00 to 09:00 (nighttime). The main features that were associated with nighttime SUID were bed sharing, younger infants, non‐white infants, placed supine to sleep and found supine, and caregiver was the parent. Daytime SUID was associated with older infants, day care, white infants, sleeping in an adult bed and prone sleep position. Factors not associated with time of death were sex of the infant, smoking and breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Sudden unexpected infant death deaths that occur at night are associated with a separate set of risk factors compared to deaths that occur during the day. However, to minimise risk, it is important to practice safe sleep guidelines during both nighttime and daytime sleep.
Recentering Action in Critical Consciousness
Authors: Diemer Matthew A. , Pinedo Andres , Bañales Josefina , Mathews Channing J. , Frisby Michael B. , Harris Elise M. , McAlister Sara
Published: November 2020

Scholarship on critical consciousness frames how people who are more marginalized deeply analyze, feel empowered to change, and take collective action to redress perceived inequities. These three dimensions correspond to critical reflection, motivation, and action, respectively. In this article, we aim to recenter action in scholarship on critical consciousness, given the disproportionate attention that has been paid to reflection. To achieve this aim, we review empirical associations between critical action and positive developmental consequences among more marginalized youth, highlight promising practices to foster critical action, and identify questions and key areas for inquiry. We hope this article motivates a recentering of critical action in scholarship, policy, and practice on critical consciousness.
Online alcohol delivery is associated with heavier drinking during the first New Zealand COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions
Authors: Huckle Taisia , Parker Karl , Romeo Jose S. , Casswell Sally
Published: November 2020

Introduction

This paper aimed to assess purchasing and drinking behaviour during the first COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions in New Zealand.

Method

A convenience sample was collected via Facebook from 2173 New Zealanders 18+ years during pandemic restrictions April/May 2020. Measures included: the quantity typically consumed during a drinking occasion and heavier drinking (6+ drinks on a typical occasion) in the past week; place of purchase including online alcohol delivery. Descriptive statistics were generated, logistic and linear regression models predicted heavier drinking and typical occasion quantity, respectively. Weighting was not applied.

Results

During pandemic restrictions, around 75% of respondents purchased from supermarkets, 40% used online alcohol delivery services (18% for the first time during COVID‐19). Purchasing online alcohol delivery during pandemic restrictions was associated with heavier drinking (75% higher odds) in the past week, while purchasing from supermarkets was not. About 58% of online purchasers under 25 reported no age checks. Sixteen percent of those purchasing online repeat ordered online to keep drinking after running out. Of respondents who had tried to buy alcohol and food online, 56% reported that alcohol was easier to get delivered than fresh food. Advertising for online alcohol delivery was seen by around 75% of the sample. Half of the sample reported drinking more alcohol during the restrictions.

Discussion and Conclusions

Online alcohol delivery during the COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions was associated with heavier drinking in the past week. The rapid expansion of online alcohol delivery coupled with a lack of regulatory control requires public health policy attention.
Haut und Psychosomatik – Psychodermatologie heute
Authors: Gieler Uwe , Gieler Tanja , Peters Eva Milena Johanne , Linder Dennis
Published: November 2020

Die heutige Psychodermatologie beruht auf dem biopsychosozialen Krankheitsmodell der Psychosomatik. Danach sind biologische, psychologische und soziale Faktoren auf verschiedenen Ebenen (von den Molekülen bis zur Biosphäre) durch komplexe, nicht lineare Interaktionen über den gesamten Krankheitsverlauf wesentlich an der Pathogenese jeder Krankheit beteiligt. Es gilt als experimentell gesichert, dass „Emotionen in die Haut gelangen“. Die rezente Forschung belegt enge anatomische, physiologische und funktionelle Verbindungen zwischen Haut und Nervensystem; letztere sind ontogenetisch eng verwandt. Diese Verbindungen spiegeln sich in zahlreichen Hautkrankheiten wider, bei denen psychische und somatische ätiologische Faktoren eng miteinander verflochten sind. Dieser Verflechtung sollte ein ganzheitlicher Zugang des Arztes gerecht werden.

Bei Anamneseerhebung, Diagnosestellung und Therapiewahl sollten biologische, psychische und soziale Faktoren hinreichend berücksichtigt werden. Die „Sichtbarkeit“ des Hautorgans führt dazu, dass die Dermatologie unter den klinischen Fächern eine Sonderstellung einnimmt und dass ein ganzheitlicher psychosomatischer Zugang zum Patienten besonders wichtig ist. Die Lebenslaufperspektive (life course approach) kann zu den Zugangsmethoden der modernen Psychodermatologie gerechnet werden. In Anlehnung an das moderne Konzept der Psychodermatologie gibt es heute weitere entsprechende Teilgebiete wie zum Beispiel Psychogastroenterologie und Psychokardiologie. Im Anschluss an den theoretischen Teil werden einige exemplarisch ausgewählte Hautkrankheiten unter dem psychosomatischen Blickpunkt ausführlicher besprochen.
Perinatal care with a view to preventing cerebral palsy
Authors: Badawi Nadia , Mcintyre Sarah , Hunt Rod W
Published: November 2020

Birth prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) is declining in high‐income countries, to as low as 1.4 per 1000 live births in the most recent international reports. This represents a 35% reduction in birth prevalence over a 15‐year period. This reduction is underpinned by a heightened focus of attention towards all aspects of CP, including: increased awareness, better data collection, development of national networks and registries, an explosion of research in basic science, perinatal care, neonatal neurology, public health, early detection, and targeted early intervention. Quick uptake of evidence into practice has ensued and overall improvements in clinical care occurred concurrently. It is anticipated that with continued partnerships with families, ongoing research driving further clinical improvement and vice versa, birth prevalence and severity of CP will further decline and the focus will shift to prevention in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

What this paper adds

Research in the field of perinatal care and cerebral palsy (CP) prevention has increased significantly.

In high‐income countries, increased awareness of CP and scientific advances have improved clinical care.

Population‐based registers have limitations but remain the best mechanism to quantify birth prevalence of CP and accurately track trends.

There have been recent reductions in the birth prevalence of CP.
The effects of olfactory bulb removal on single‐pellet skilled reaching task in rats
Authors: Parmiani Pierantonio , Lucchetti Cristina , Franchi Gianfranco
Published: November 2020

We focused on how the rat uses olfactory cues in a single‐pellet reaching task, which is composed of three successive learned responses, Orient, Transport, and Withdrawal. Orient comprised: front wall detection, slot localisation, and nose poke until reach start. High‐speed video‐recording enabled us to describe the temporal features of this sequence in controls vs. 3–5 and 12–14 days after bilateral bulbectomy in trials with (P trial) vs. without (no‐P trial) pellet. In controls, the full sequence was complete in P trials, while it was interrupted after Orient in no P‐trials. After bulbectomy, the full sequence was seen in both P and no‐P trials at days 3–5 and 12–14 and there was an increase in Orient duration due to the increased time in slot/shelf localisation. Unlike in controls, in anosmic rats, the first nose contact with the front wall took place below the slot/shelf level, and the number of nose touches together with the number of whisker cycles was significantly higher at 3–5 but not at 12–14 days. The relationship between nose touches and whisker cycles was linear in all experimental conditions. Bulbectomy resulted in no changes in the Transport duration or the time the paw spent out of the slot. These findings suggest that olfaction allows the animal to orient itself in pellet localisation, and offers insight into the contribution of olfaction during different stages of natural behaviour in skilled reaching task.
The impact of public–private partnerships on public accounts: The Portuguese roads sector
Authors: Cracel Viana Luís , Miranda Sarmento Joaquim , Moreira José António , Alves Paulo
Published: November 2020

The accounting and reporting of public—private partnerships (PPPs) is a matter of extensive debate and is associated with a compelling incentive to follow the PPP route for the construction of public infrastructures, rather than traditional public procurement, even if the PPP route is not affordable and fails to achieve value for money in comparison to traditional public procurement. The aim of this study is to empirically evaluate the so‐called hidden debt hypothesis. Using a novel dataset for the Portuguese roads sector, we studied the annual reports of the operators since the adoption of International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) 12 from 2010 up until 2017. Our results show a lack of transparency in the reporting of PPPs in public accounts, as well as a material difference between our simulation of the impact of (International Public Sector Accounting Standards) IPSAS 32 in public accounts, and also the impact resulting from the application of the European System of Accounts, according to which official debt figures are calculated. The paper also presents evidence of the effects of the financial bailout on PPPs accounting. Overall, the results show that public debt is understated from 1.96% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2010 (3,519 million euros), to 3.99% of GDP in 2014 (6,907 million euros) and an average of 11,027 million euros of fixed assets for the period 2010–2017 are not reported in the Portuguese State Accounts. The results highlight the need for a closer alignment between national accounts and accrual accounting based on IPSAS standards.
Nephrops norvegicus in the Adriatic Sea: Connectivity modeling, essential fish habitats, and management area network
Authors: Melaku Canu Donata , Laurent Célia , Morello Elisabetta B. , Querin Stefano , Scarcella Giuseppe , Vrgoc Nedo , Froglia Carlo , Angelini Silvia , Solidoro Cosimo
Published: November 2020

Knowledge of connectivity among subpopulations is fundamental in the identification of the appropriate geographical scales for stock status evaluation and management, the identification of areas with greater retention rates, and space‐based fisheries management. Here, an integration of hydrodynamic, biological, and habitat models results is used to assess connectivity and support the definition of essential fish habitats (EFH) in the Adriatic Sea, with reference to Nephrops norvegicus, an important benthic commercial resource, the recruitment of which is strongly related to larval dispersal from spawning to recruitment areas. We explored oceanographic and biological connectivity in the Adriatic Sea under a wide and representative variety of oceanographic conditions (winters 2006–2012) by tracking 3D trajectories of larvae released from different areas. We used a Lagrangian model that features a specific larval behavior module with explicit dependence on environmental parameters (i.e., temperature and sediment type) and that is driven by high‐resolution hydrodynamic and meteorological data. The results were used to partition the area in which Nephrops was observed into 20 homogenous management subareas; to assess the connection between spawning, recruitment, and harvesting grounds; and to identify potential subpopulation boundaries as well as the connectivity among the potential subpopulations. The results suggest the presence of at least three distinct subpopulations, which need to be independently managed and conserved, and confirms that the Jabuka‐Pomo pit is the most important spawning area, but alone it cannot sustain Nephrops populations throughout the Adriatic Sea. The results also show the importance to move from particle‐tracking to approaches based on integrated models.
Heat stress decreases the diversity, abundance and functional potential of coral gas emissions
Authors: Lawson Caitlin A. , Raina Jean‐Baptiste , Deschaseaux Elisabeth , Hrebien Victoria , Possell Malcolm , Seymour Justin R. , Suggett David J.
Published: November 2020

Terrestrial ecosystems emit large quantities of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), many of which play important roles in abiotic stress responses, pathogen and grazing defences, inter‐ and intra‐species communications, and climate regulation. Conversely, comparatively little is known about the diversity and functional potential of BVOCs produced in the marine environment, especially in highly productive coral reefs. Here we describe the first ‘volatilomes’ of two common reef‐building corals, Acropora intermedia and Pocillopora damicornis, and how the functional potential of their gaseous emissions is altered by heat stress events that are driving rapid deterioration of coral reef ecosystems worldwide. A total of 87 BVOCs were detected from the two species and the chemical richness of both coral volatilomes—particularly the chemical classes of alkanes and carboxylic acids—decreased during heat stress by 41% and 62% in A. intermedia and P. damicornis, respectively. Across both coral species, the abundance of individual compounds changed significantly during heat stress, with the majority (>86%) significantly decreasing compared to control conditions. Additionally, almost 60% of the coral volatilome (or 52 BVOCs) could be assigned to four key functional groups based on their activities in other species or systems, including stress response, chemical signalling, climate regulation and antimicrobial activity. The total number of compounds assigned to these functions decreased significantly under heat stress for both A. intermedia (by 35%) and P. damicornis (by 64%), with most dramatic losses found for climatically active BVOCs in P. damicornis and antimicrobial BVOCs in A. intermedia. Together, our observations suggest that future heat stress events predicted for coral reefs will reduce the diversity, quantity and functional potential of BVOCs emitted by reef‐building corals, potentially further compromising the healthy functioning of these ecosystems.
Cutaneous tuberculosis of the pinna
Authors: Ramesh V. , Gupta Jyoti
Published: November 2020

Background

Cutaneous tuberculosis (CTB) rarely involves the ear as the primary site, but while diagnosing and treating ear infections, it should be considered a differential diagnosis in a tropical country such as India. The present study reports the incidence and clinical presentation of auricular tuberculosis (TB) in a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study was conducted from 2005 to 2019 whereby all cases of CTB confirmed by biopsy were retrieved from the database. The demographic details, clinical details, Mantoux results, and photographs were extracted and studied. The data were entered into MS Excel and analyzed.

Results

In a retrospective analysis of 886 cases of CTB over a period of 15 years, we found 20 cases (2.26%) of ear involvement (1 case with bilateral involvement). The median age of the patients with ear involvement was 29 years with 42.11% men and 57.89% women. Morphological variants seen over pinna were predominantly classic plaque type (31.58%) and nodular (31.58%), with few ulcerative (21.05%) and tumoral forms (15.79%). CTB of the pinna showed predominant involvement of either helix or ear lobule (7 cases each). All cases were strongly positive to tuberculin and showed response to the empirical antitubercular treatment.

Conclusion

CTB can exclusively affect the pinna in varied presentations. The ear lobules and the helix are the usual sites of affection. It is rare for both ears to be affected with CTB, unlike bacilliferous leprosy. Regression following institution of antitubercular treatment is a reasonable way to confirm CTB.
Impact of brown foxtail millet (Setaria italica) flour on thermo‐mechanical properties of flours from different rice varieties
Authors: Aprodu Iuliana , Banu Iuliana
Published: November 2020

The physical, functional and thermo‐mechanical properties of rice flours prepared from long, round and medium rice grain and of foxtail millet (Setaria italica) flour were investigated. The impact of foxtail millet flour addition on the thermo‐mechanical properties to the rice flours was also explored. Rice flour from long grain had higher amylose content (26.37%), while the rice flour from round grain had better hydration properties compared to the other rice flours. The dough from long grain rice flour exhibited higher starch gelatinisation temperature and cooking stability and lower starch retrogradation compared to the other investigated rice flours. Foxtail millet flour addition to the rice flours exerted a lower impact on the thermo‐mechanical properties of the dough based on rice flour from long grain compared to the other investigated rice flours. These differences might be due to the differences in terms of starch properties and proximate composition of the flour samples.
Effect of foliar spray of kinetin on the enhancement of rice yield by elevated CO2
Authors: Zhang Guoyou , Sakai Hidemitsu , Yoshimoto Mayumi , Wakatsuki Hitomi , Tokida Takeshi , Ikawa Hiroki , Arai Miwa , Nakamura Hirofumi , Hasegawa Toshihiro
Published: November 2020

Rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations stimulate photosynthesis and productivity of C3 plants such as rice (Oryza sativa L.), a phenomenon known as the CO2 fertilization effect (CFE). Previous studies have shown that a greater sink capacity (e.g. grain number, or grain size) enhances the CFE on rice yield and that cytokinin is involved in the sink capacity; however, the direct involvement of this phytohormone in the CFE remains unclear. In this study, we tested whether exogenous application of kinetin improved the CFE of cultivars with different sink sizes (Koshihikari, japonica, with small sink; Takanari, indica with large sink) using a free‐air CO2 enrichment experiment on a rice paddy. We hypothesized that kinetin increases the sink size and thereby enhances the CFE, particularly for the cultivar with a smaller sink. Elevated CO2 (200 µmol/mol above ambient concentration) increased grain yield by 11.4%, averaged across two cultivars. Kinetin significantly improved the CFE in Takanari from 11.2% to 19.2%, but not in Koshihikari. The enhancement of the CFE by kinetin in Takanari appeared through the increased sink size resulting from a greater panicle density. In contrast, kinetin did not increase panicle density or sink size in Koshihikari and failed to enhance the CFE. We therefore conclude that sink size improves CFE on rice yield, and that kinetin could increase sink size, but the effect is cultivar dependent.
Molecular characterization and functional analysis of cyp11a and cyp11b in black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii)
Authors: Sun Minmin , Jiang Shipeng , Song Weihao , Qu Jiangbo , Qi Jie
Published: November 2020

The cyp11 includes cyp11a and cyp11b in most mammals and teleosts, encoded cholesterol side chain lyase and 11β‐hydroxylase, respectively. It is essential in steroid hormone synthesis. However, studies on the regulation of cyp11 are limited, especially in teleosts. In this study, the molecular characterization and function of cyp11a and cyp11b of black rockfish was investigated. Both of them showed high homology with other teleost counterparts by phylogenetic analysis. The expression of cyp11a and cyp11b exhibited a clear sexually dimorphic pattern, with a higher expression level in testis than that of in ovaries. During the different developmental stages (40 dpf, 80 dpf, 190 dpf, 360 dpf, 720 dpf), the expression of cyp11a was earlier than cyp11b. In situ hybridization results showed that cyp11a and cyp11b were mainly expressed in oogonia and oocytes of the ovary. They were located in spermatogonia and interstitial compartment in the 1.5‐year‐old gonads, and spermatocytesgonia and the peritubular myoid cell of the testis in the 2.5‐year‐old gonads. To explore the distinct roles of cyp11a and cyp11b in gonads, oestrogen and androgens were used to stimulate the primary testicular and ovarian cells. The expressions of cyp11a and cyp11b were tested under different dose of 17α‐methyltestosterone (17α‐MT) and 17β‐estradiol (E2). The results showed cyp11a was significantly increased at 10−6 mol ml–1 of 17α‐MT and 10−8 mol ml–1 of E2 in ovary and 10−10 mol ml–1 of 17α‐MT and E2 in testis, while cyp11b was significantly decreased after 17α‐MT and E2 treatment. These results indicated that cyp11a and cyp11b were likely to have different functions, and also implied they might play an important roles in the differentiation of gonads and the synthesis of steroids in black rockfish.
Determining the appropriate pretreatment procedures and the utility of liver tissue for bulk stable isotope (δ13C and δ15N) studies in sharks
Authors: Pahl K. Blue , Yurkowski David J. , Wintner Sabine P. , Cliff Geremy , Dicken Matthew L. , Hussey Nigel E.
Published: November 2020

Stable‐isotope analysis (SIA) provides a valuable tool to address complex questions pertaining to elasmobranch ecology. Liver, a metabolically active, high turnover tissue (~166 days for 95% turnover), has the potential to reveal novel insights into recent feeding/movement behaviours of this diverse group. To date, limited work has used this tissue, but ecological application of SIA in liver requires consideration of tissue preparation techniques given the potential for high concentrations of urea and lipid that could bias δ13C and δ15N values (i.e., result in artificially lower δ13C and δ15N values). Here we investigated the effectiveness of (a) deionized water washing (WW) for urea removal from liver tissue and (b) chloroform‐methanol for extraction of lipids from this lipid rich tissue. We then (a) established C:N thresholds for deriving ecologically relevant liver isotopic values given complications of removing all lipid and (b) undertook a preliminary comparison of δ13C values between tissue pairs (muscle and liver) to test if observed isotopic differences correlated with known movement behaviour. Tests were conducted on four large shark species: the dusky (DUS, Carcharhinus obscurus), sand tiger (RAG, Carcharias taurus), scalloped hammerhead (SCA, Sphyrna lewini) and white shark (GRE, Carcharodon carcharias). There was no significant difference in δ15N values between lipid‐extracted (LE) liver and lipid‐extracted/water washed (WW) treatments, however, WW resulted in significant increases in %N, δ13C and %C. Following lipid extraction (repeated three times), some samples were still biased by lipids. Our species‐specific “C:N thresholds” provide a method to derive ecologically viable isotope data given the complexities of this lipid rich tissue (C:N thresholds of 4.0, 3.6, 4.7 and 3.9 for DUS, RAG, SCA and GRE liverLEWW tissue, respectively). The preliminary comparison of C:N threshold corrected liver and muscle δ13C values corresponded with movement/habitat behaviours for each shark; minor differences in δ13C values were observed for known regional movements of DUS and RAG (δ13CDiffs = 0.24 ± 0.99‰ and 0.57 ± 0.38‰, respectively), while SCA and GRE showed greater differences (1.24 ± 0.63‰ and 1.08 ± 0.71‰, respectively) correlated to large‐scale movements between temperate/tropical and pelagic/coastal environments. These data provide an approach for the successful application of liver δ13C and δ15N values to examine elasmobranch ecology.
Accelerometer‐Measured Sedentary Patterns are Associated with Incident Falls in Older Women
Authors: Rosenberg Dori E. , Rillamas‐Sun Eileen , Bellettiere John , LaMonte Michael , Buchner David M. , Di Chongzhi , Hunt Julie , Marshall Stephen , Stefanick Marcia , Zhang Yuzheng , LaCroix Andrea Z.
Published: November 2020

Background/Objective

Falls cause significant problems for older adults. Sedentary time is associated with lower physical function and could increase the risk for falls.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Sites across the United States.

Participants

Older women (N = 5,545, mean age 79 years) from the Women's Health Initiative Objective Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health study.

Measurements

Accelerometers worn at the hip for up to 1 week collected measures of daily sedentary time and the mean sedentary bout duration, a commonly used metric for sedentary accumulation patterns. For up to 13 months after accelerometer wear, women reported daily whether they had fallen on monthly calendars.

Results

In fully adjusted models, the incident rate ratios (95% confidence interval) for quartiles 1 (lowest), 2, 3, and 4 of sedentary time respectively were 1.0 (ref.), 1.07 (0.93–1.24), 1.07 (0.91–1.25), and 1.14 (0.96–1.35; P‐trend = .65) and for mean sedentary bout duration was 1.0 (ref.), 1.05 (0.92–1.21), 1.02 (0.88–1.17), and 1.17 (1.01–1.37; P‐trend = .01), respectively. Women with a history of two or more falls had stronger associations between sedentary time and falls incidence compared with women with a history of no or one fall (P for interaction = .046).

Conclusions

Older women in the highest quartile of mean sedentary bout duration had a significantly increased risk of falling. Women with a history of frequent falling may be at higher risk for falling if they have high sedentary time. Interventions testing whether shortening total sedentary time and/or sedentary bouts lowers fall risk are needed to confirm these observational findings.
Suppression of tau‐induced phenotypes by vitamin E demonstrates the dissociation of oxidative stress and phosphorylation in mechanisms of tau toxicity
Authors: Cowan Catherine M. , Sealey Megan A. , Mudher Amritpal
Published: November 2020

Various lines of evidence implicate oxidative stress in the pathogenic mechanism(s) underpinning tauopathies. Consequently, antioxidant therapies have been considered in clinical practice for the treatment of tauopathies such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), but with mixed results. We and others have previously reported increased protein oxidation upon expression of both human 0N3R (hTau0N3R) and 0N4R (hTau0N4R) tau in vivo. Building on these studies, we demonstrate here the suppression of hTau0N3R associated phenotypes in Drosophila melanogaster after treatment with vitamin C or vitamin E. Curiously the rescue of phenotype was seen without alteration in total tau level or alteration in phosphorylation at a number of disease‐associated sites. Moreover, treatment with paraquat, a pro‐oxidant drug, did not exacerbate the hTau0N3R phenotypes. This result following paraquat treatment is reminiscent of our previous findings with hTau0N4R which also causes greater oxidative stress when compared to hTau0N3R but has a milder phenotype. Collectively our data imply that the role of oxidative stress in tau‐mediated toxicity is not straight forward and there may be isoform‐specific effects as well as contribution of other factors. This may explain the ambiguous effects of anti‐oxidant treatments on clinical outcome in dementia patients.

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Endocrine cross‐talk between the gut microbiome and glial cells in development and disease
Authors: Anbalagan Savani
Published: November 2020

Glial cells make up the major cellular component of the nervous system. Glial development is usually investigated through perturbations of host genetics, although non‐host‐derived signalling molecules can also regulate glial cells. Indeed, gut microbiome colonisation and the presence of microbiome‐derived factors in the blood coincide with glial cell development. Emerging data suggest that the gut microbiome can regulate gliogenesis, myelination and glial epigenetics. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterised by changes in the gut microbiome and glial dysfunction. This perspective discusses the ways in which microbiome‐derived molecules can engage in cross‐talk with glial cells during development and in dysfunctional glial diseases.
The perception bias of aesthetic providers
Authors: Greywal Tanya , Dayan Steven H. , Goldie Kate , Guillen Fabi Sabrina
Published: November 2020

Since there is no universal standard of beauty, each aesthetic provider's definition may shape his/her practice of aesthetic procedures. Beauty and attractiveness are commonly defined by both mathematical and cultural influences and are shaped by our surroundings and what is most familiar to us. Therefore, we thoroughly explored the literature to better elucidate these variables and biases that affect the perception of beauty, in order to better provide appropriate and customized aesthetic procedures that preserve each individuals’ own unique beauty. Understanding how each provider's own bias and aesthetic preferences differs from that of his/her patients may go a long way to improving communication in the consultation process and patient satisfaction with the outcomes achieved. We know that clinicians many times superimpose their biases onto their patients, so it is important that each practitioner accounts for bias in aesthetic medicine when consulting with patients and colleagues.
T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted Subtraction MR Images for Glioma Visualization and Grading
Authors: Goryawala Mohammed , Roy Bhaswati , Gupta Rakesh K. , Maudsley Andrew A.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To evaluate the performance of multiparametric MR images in differentiation of different regions of the gross tumor area and for assessment of glioma grade.

METHODS

Forty‐six glioma subjects (18 grade II, 11 grade III, and 17 grade IV) underwent a comprehensive MR and spectroscopic imaging procedure. Maps were generated by subtraction of T1‐weighted images from contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted images (ΔT1 map) and T1‐weighted images from T2‐weighted images (ΔT2 map). Regions of interest (ROIs) were positioned in normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM), enhancing tumor, hyperintense T2, necrotic region, and immediate and distal peritumoral regions (IPR and DPR). Relative signal contrast was estimated as difference between mean intensities in ROIs and NAWM. Classification using support vector machines was applied to all image series to determine the efficacy of regional contrast measures for differentiation of low‐ and high‐grade lesions and grade III and IV lesions.

RESULTS

ΔT1 and ΔT2 maps offered higher contrast as compared to other parametric maps in differentiating enhancing tumor and edematous regions, respectively, and provided the highest classification accuracy for differentiating low‐ and high‐grade tumors, of 91% and 90.4%. Choline/N‐acetylaspartate maps provided significant contrast for delineating IPR and DPR. For differentiating high‐grade gliomas, ΔT2 and ΔT1 maps provided a mean accuracy of 90.9% and 88.2%, which was lower than that obtained using cerebral blood volume (93.7%) and choline/creatine (93.3%) maps.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that subtraction maps provided significant contrast in differentiating several regions of the gross tumor area and are of benefit for accurate tumor grading.
Household food insecurity and children's oral health: Findings from the 2016–2018 National Survey of Children's Health
Authors: Jackson Dylan B. , Testa Alexander
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of the present study is to examine the association between household food insecurity and oral health problems among US children, and the role that socioeconomic, insurance, and oral health care utilization variables play in this association.

Methods

A large, nationally representative sample of children from the 2016–2018 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) was employed in the present study (N = 99,962). Logistic regression and negative binomial regression were used to assess the influence of household food insecurity on diverse oral health problems and unmet oral health care needs. The Karlson–Holm–Breen (KHB) method was used to examine the attenuating roles of socioeconomic, insurance, and oral health care utilization variables.

Results

Children in food‐insecure households exhibited significantly greater odds of all examined oral health problems as well as unmet oral health care needs. These associations were a) most pronounced in the case of moderate‐to‐severe food insecurity and b) partly explained by a subset of socioeconomic and insurance‐related variables.

Conclusions

Household food insecurity is a potent risk factor for oral health problems and unmet oral health care needs among US children. Programmatic efforts to address household food insecurity may yield collateral benefits for the oral health of children. Furthermore, because socioeconomic status and insurance‐related variables explain part of the association, targeted interventions to improve these factors may improve oral health among at‐risk children.
Bilingual and Multilingual Mental Lexicon: A Modeling Study With Linear Discriminative Learning
Authors: Chuang Yu‐Ying , Bell Melanie J. , Banke Isabelle , Baayen R. Harald
Published: November 2020

This study addresses whether there is anything special about learning a third language, as compared to learning a second language, that results solely from the order of acquisition. We use a computational model based on the mathematical framework of Linear Discriminative Learning to explore this question for the acquisition of a small trilingual vocabulary, with English as L1, German or Mandarin as L2, and Mandarin or Dutch as L3. Our simulations reveal that when qualitative differences emerge between the learning of a first, second, and third language, these differences emerge from distributional properties of the particular languages involved rather than the order of acquisition per se, or any difference in learning mechanism. One such property is the number of homophones in each language, since within‐language homophones give rise to errors in production. Our simulations also show the importance of suprasegmental information in determining the kinds of production errors made.
Pudendal nerve release for lower urinary tract symptoms in young males
Authors: Aoun Fouad , Mjaess Georges , Akl Bernard , Nassar Dany , Kallas Chemaly Anthony , Haydar Asad , Raad Rami , Absil Fabienne , Nemr Elie , Bollens Renaud
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of laparoscopic transperitoneal pudendal decompression in the improvement of refractory lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in young males presenting with clinical features of pudendal nerve entrapment with no known comorbidities that could explain their LUTS.

Methods

This is a prospective pilot study involving patients suffering from LUTS refractory to standard treatment and clinical features of pudendal nerve entrapment on physical examination. They underwent laparoscopic transperitoneal pudendal decompression. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and maximal flow (Qmax) on uroflowmetry were evaluated before and 3 months after the procedure.

Results

Five male patients aged 34 ± 4 years were recruited. The median IPSS differed significantly before and 3 months after the procedure (18 vs 8, P = .042); likewise, median Qmax differed significantly before and 3 months after the procedure (12 vs 18 mL/s, P = .042).

Conclusion

Pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome should be considered as a main differential diagnosis for refractory LUTS in young males with no other comorbidities. When clinical features of pudendal nerve entrapment are present, laparoscopic transperitoneal pudendal decompression relieves LUTS in these young males.
Population genetic structure underlying the geographic variation in beetle structural colour with multiple transition zones
Authors: Araki Yoshifumi , Sota Teiji
Published: November 2020

We studied the population genetic structure underlying the geographic variation in the structural colour of the geotrupid dung beetle,Phelotrupes auratus, which exhibits metallic body colours of different reflectance wavelengths perceived as red, green and indigo. These forms occur parapatrically in an area of Japan. The colour variation was not related to variation in climatic factors. Using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequences, we discriminated five groups of populations (west/red, south/green, south/indigo, south/red and east/red) by a combination of genetic clusters (west, south and east) and three colour forms. There were three transition zones for the colour forms: two between the red and green forms were hybrid zones with steep genetic clines, which implies the existence of barriers to gene flow between regions with different colours. The remaining transition zone between the green and indigo forms lacked genetic differentiation, despite the evident colour changes, which implies regionally specific selection on the different colours. In a genomewide association study, we identified four SNPs that were associated with the red/green or indigo colour and were not linked with one another, which implies that the coloration was controlled by multiple loci, each affecting the expression of a different colour range. These loci may have controlled the transitions between different combinations of colours. Our study demonstrates that geographic colour variation within a species can be maintained by nonuniform interactions among barriers to gene flow, locally specific selection on different colours, and the effects of different colour loci.
Mucormycosis at a tertiary‐care center in Mexico. A 35‐year retrospective study of 214 cases
Authors: Bonifaz Alexandro , Tirado‐Sánchez Andrés , Hernández‐Medel María L. , Araiza Javier , Kassack Juan J. , del Angel‐Arenas Teresa , Moisés‐Hernández Jorge F. , Paredes‐Farrera Fernando , Gómez‐Apo Erick , Treviño‐Rangel Rogelio de J. , González Gloria M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Mucormycosis is a rare, invasive disease associated with high mortality rates, produced by opportunistic pathogens related to the Mucorales order and characterised by a diverse range of clinical forms; acute rhino‐orbital‐cerebral and pulmonary symptoms are the most reported ones.

Objectives

To report the experience of mucormycosis observed in a tertiary‐care hospital in Mexico for 35 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective, descriptive and observational study on mucormycosis at a tertiary‐care hospital in Mexico from January 1985 to December 2019. Demographic and clinical data and mycological and histopathological records were selected.

Results

Two hundred fourteen proven cases of mucormycosis for 35 years at a tertiary‐care hospital in Mexico were included. Most of the cases were male patients with a median age of 45 years. The two most associated underlying diseases were diabetes mellitus (76.6%) and haematologic malignancy (15.4%). The three primary clinical forms were as follows: rhino‐orbito‐cerebral (75.9%), cutaneous (8.41%) and pulmonary (7.47%) mucormycosis. The most isolated agents were Rhizopus arrhizus (58.4%) and Lichtheimia corymbifera (12.3%). The overall therapeutic response was 58.5%, and the best response was observed with amphotericin B deoxycholate and surgical debridement.

Conclusion

Mucormycosis is an emerging disease, and its incidence has increased at our hospital over the years. In this study, the rhino‐cerebral clinical type was the most frequent in patients with uncontrolled diabetes; the main aetiological agent was R. arrhizus. Early diagnosis, control of the underlying disease and prompt management may increase the survival rate.
Postoperative ileus—An ongoing conundrum
Authors: Wattchow David , Heitmann Paul , Smolilo David , Spencer Nick J. , Parker Dominic , Hibberd Timothy , Brookes Simon S. J. , Dinning Phil G. , Costa Marcello
Published: November 2020

Background

Postoperative ileus is common and is a major clinical problem. It has been widely studied in patients and in experimental models in laboratory animals. A wide variety of treatments have been tested to prevent or modify the course of this disorder.

Purpose

This review draws together information on animal studies of ileus with studies on human patients. It summarizes some of the conceptual advances made in understanding the mechanisms that underlie paralytic ileus. The treatments that have been tested in human subjects (both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological) and their efficacy are summarized and graded consistent with current clinical guidelines. The review is not intended to provide a comprehensive overview of ileus, but rather a general understanding of the major clinical problems associated with it, how animal models have been useful to elucidate key mechanisms and, finally, some perspectives from both scientists and clinicians as to how we may move forward with this debilitating yet common condition.
Characterization of alternating neurogenic motor patterns in mouse colon
Authors: Costa Marcello , Keightley Lauren J. , Hibberd Timothy J. , Wiklendt Lukasz , Smolilo David J. , Dinning Phil G. , Brookes Simon J. , Spencer Nick J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Colonic motor complexes (CMCs) have been widely recorded in the large intestine of vertebrates. We have investigated whether in the smooth muscle, a single unified pattern of electrical activity, or different patterns of electrical activity give rise to the different neurogenic patterns of motility underlying CMCs in vitro.

Methods

To study differences of the CMCs between proximal and distal colon, we used a novel combination of techniques to simultaneously record muscle diameter and force at multiple sites along the whole mouse colon ex vivo. In addition, electrical activity of smooth muscle was recorded by suction electrodes.

Key Results

Two distinct types of CMCs were distinguished; CMCs that propagated along the entire colon (complete CMC) and CMCs which were restricted to the proximal colon (incomplete CMC). The two types of CMC often occurred in the same preparations. Incomplete CMCs had longer bursts of smooth muscle action potentials than complete CMCs and propagated more slowly. Interestingly, both types of CMC were associated with similar frequency bursts of smooth muscle action potentials at ~2.4 Hz. In the most proximal colon, an additional firing frequency was detected close to ~7 Hz generating multiple peaks within each CMC.

Conclusions & Inferences

We report distinct characteristics underlying complete and incomplete CMCs in isolated mouse colon. Recognizing these distinct patterns of motility will be important for future interpretation of analysis of murine colonic motility recordings. The identification of alternating patterns of motor activity in proximal colon, but not distal colon may reflect specific neural mechanisms for fecal pellet formation.