bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and genetic features of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in southern China
Authors: Chen W. , Xie Y. , Zheng M. , Lin J. , Huang P. , Pei Z. , Yao X.
Published: March 2020

Background and purpose

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)‐related genes and mutations have been increasingly discovered recently and an improved understanding of genotype–phenotype relationships may help to predict the disease course and refine genetic diagnosis.

Methods

We collected clinical data and blood samples from 268 patients and used next‐generation sequencing to comprehensively assay genetic variations in a panel of known ALS genes from 2015 to 2019.

Results

Among these patients, the mean age of onset was 52.30 ± 10.42 years with a mean diagnosis delay of 15.90 ± 11.88 months. Patients with SOD1, TARDBP and FUS variants were more likely to suffer from familial ALS. Additionally, carriers of FUS variants displayed the earliest onset, followed by those with SOD1 variants. Patients with NEFH variants showed a closer link to pesticide exposure. Patients with SETX variants were prone to bulbar onset with moderate anxiety problems. No genotype–phenotype relations were found in SPG11 and ERBB4 mutants.

Conclusion

Our findings uncovered some genotype–phenotype relationships and may help to predict the disease course of patients with ALS in southern China.
Chemical signalling behaviour in intrasexual communication of lizards lacking femoral pores
Authors: Bruinjé Andre C. , Coelho Felipe E. A. , Maggi Bruno S. , Costa Gabriel C.
Published: March 2020

Signals that are used in animal communication may have multiple sensorial channels and functions. Animal communication integrates very distinct mechanisms such as behaviour, morphology and physiological secretions. Chemical signals occur in several contexts and are known to have a role in sexual selection. In many lizards, pheromones secreted through femoral pores are used to attract females and demark territory dominance. In lizard species without femoral pores, however, study of chemical signalling is negligible. Lizards of the genus Tropidurus have no ventral pores, but express melanic patches in their ventral thighs and cloacae (body regions linked to chemical communication in other lizards), which may play a role in both visual signalling and chemical signalling. Here, we describe the occurrence of pelvic rubbing—a chemical signalling behaviour—in two Tropidurus species, displayed in intraspecific agonistic intrasexual staged encounters. In addition, we compile a list of currently reported species that display this behaviour, checking for its social contexts and presence/absence of secretion pores. We analysed behaviours in conspecific trials between males of Tropidurus semitaeniatus and of T. hispidus during their breeding season. In T. semitaeniatus, displays of pelvic rubbing elicited aggressive responses from the opponents. Tropidurus hispidus, however, did not react to these conspecific displays. Pelvic rubbings were also partially linked to defecation in both species, which is likely due to secretions from internal urodeal glands expelled during defecation. Also, high rates of tongue flick behaviours during the encounters support the hypothesis that these lizards make use of chemical communication. Our observations corroborate previous suggestions that glandular scales—scales covered by generation glands produced at the epidermis across the lizards’ shedding cycles—are present in their melanic ventral patches. Our work also highlights the potential of characterizing such ventral patches as multimodal signalling badges. Further, we investigated the contexts in which pelvic rubbing is displayed adding to our understanding of the role played by chemical signalling in lizards without femoral pores.
Nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain protein 2 deficiency enhances CHOP expression and plaque necrosis in advanced atherosclerotic lesions
Authors: Kwon Min‐Young , Hwang Narae , Back Sung Hoon , Lee Seon‐Jin , Perrella Mark A. , Chung Su Wol
Published: March 2020

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐induced cell death of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is extensively involved in atherosclerotic plaque stabilization. We previously reported that nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain protein 2 (NOD2) participated in vascular homeostasis and tissue injury. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of NOD2 remain unknown in ER stress‐induced cell death of VSMC during vascular diseases, including advanced atherosclerosis. Here, we report that NOD2 specifically interacted with ER stress sensor activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and suppressed the expression of proapoptotic transcription factor CHOP (C/EBP homologous protein) during ER stress. CHOP‐positive cells were increased in neointimal lesions after femoral artery injury in NOD2‐deficient mice. In particular, a NOD2 ligand, MDP, and overexpression of NOD2 decreased CHOP expression in wild‐type VSMCs. NOD2 interacted with an ER stress sensor molecule, ATF6, and acted as a negative regulator for ATF6 activation and its downstream target molecule, CHOP, that regulates ER stress‐induced apoptosis. Moreover, NOD2 deficiency promoted disruption of advanced atherosclerotic lesions and CHOP expression in NOD2−/−ApoE−/− mice. Our findings indicate an unsuspected critical role for NOD2 in ER stress‐induced cell death.
Quantifying irrigation cooling benefits to maize yield in the US Midwest
Authors: Li Yan , Guan Kaiyu , Peng Bin , Franz Trenton E. , Wardlow Brian , Pan Ming
Published: March 2020

Irrigation is an important adaptation strategy to improve crop resilience to global climate change. Irrigation plays an essential role in sustaining crop production in water‐limited regions, as irrigation water not only benefits crops through fulfilling crops' water demand but also creates an evaporative cooling that mitigates crop heat stress. Here we use satellite remote sensing and maize yield data in the state of Nebraska, USA, combined with statistical models, to quantify the contribution of cooling and water supply to the yield benefits due to irrigation. Results show that irrigation leads to a considerable cooling on daytime land surface temperature (−1.63°C in July), an increase in enhanced vegetation index (+0.10 in July), and 81% higher maize yields compared to rainfed maize. These irrigation effects vary along the spatial and temporal gradients of precipitation and temperature, with a greater effect in dry and hot conditions, and decline toward wet and cool conditions. We find that 16% of irrigation yield increase is due to irrigation cooling, while the rest (84%) is due to water supply and other factors. The irrigation cooling effect is also observed on air temperature (−0.38 to −0.53°C) from paired flux sites in Nebraska. This study highlights the non‐negligible contribution of irrigation cooling to the yield benefits of irrigation, and such an effect may become more important in the future with continued warming and more frequent droughts.
The European Association for Haemophilia and Allied Disorders (EAHAD) Coagulation Factor Variant Databases: Important resources for haemostasis clinicians and researchers
Authors: McVey John H. , Rallapalli Pavithra M. , Kemball‐Cook Geoffrey , Hampshire Daniel J. , Giansily‐Blaizot Muriel , Gomez Keith , Perkins Stephen J. , Ludlam Christopher A.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Advances in genomic sequencing have facilitated the sequencing of genes associated with disorders of haemostasis. The identification of variants within genes and access to curated data incorporating structural, functional, evolutionary as well as phenotypic data has become increasingly important in order to ascribe pathogenicity.

Aim

The European Association for Haemophilia and Allied Disorders (EAHAD) Coagulation Factor Variant Database Project aims to provide a single port of entry to a web‐accessible resource for variants in genes involved in clinical bleeding disorders.

Results

New databases have evolved from previously developed single gene variant coagulation database projects, incorporating new data, new analysis tools and a new common database architecture with new interfaces and filters. These new databases currently present information about the genotype, phenotype (laboratory and clinical) and structural and functional effects of variants described in the genes of factor (F) VII (F7), FVIII (F8), FIX (F9) and von Willebrand factor (VWF).

Conclusion

The project has improved the quality and quantity of information available to the haemostasis research and clinical communities, thereby enabling accurate classification of disease severity in order to make assessments of likely pathogenicity.
The association between patients' preferred treatment after the use of a patient decision aid and their choice of eventual treatment
Authors: Latenstein Carmen S. S. , Thunnissen Floris M. , Thomeer Bastiaan J. M. , van Wely Bob J. , Meinders Marjan J. , Elwyn Glyn , de Reuver Philip R.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To investigate the association between patients' preferred treatment and eventual treatment. Second, to compare patients with surgical treatment to watchful waiting in order to identify predictive factors for surgery.

Methods

A single‐centre retrospective study was performed between December 2015 and August 2018. Patients (≥18 years) who used a patient decision aid (PDA) for gallstones or inguinal hernia were included. After their first surgical consultation, patients received access to an online PDA. The patients' preferred treatment after the PDA was compared with their choice of eventual treatment. Multivariable regression analyses were performed for predictive factors for surgery.

Results

In total, 567 patients with gallstones and 585 patients with an inguinal hernia were included. Of the patients with gallstones, 121 (21%) preferred watchful waiting, 367 (65%) preferred surgery, and 79 (14%) were not sure. The patients' preferred treatment was performed in 85.9%. Frequent pain attacks (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1‐3.9, P = .020) and preference for surgery (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.9‐10.1, P = .001) independently predicted surgery. Of the patients with an inguinal hernia, 77 (13.2%) preferred watchful waiting, 452 (78.8%) preferred surgery, and 56 (9.6%) were not sure. The patients' preferred treatment was performed in 86.0%. The preference for surgery (OR 5.2, 95% CI 2.5‐10.6, P < .001) independently predicted surgery and worry about complications predicted avoidance of surgery (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2‐1.0, P = .037).

Conclusion

This study, reflecting current clinical care, shows that patients' preferred treatment after using a PDA matches their eventual treatment choice in 86% of patients with gallstones or an inguinal hernia. In these patients, symptoms and patients' preference for surgery independently predicts eventual choice of surgery.
Is fatness or fitness key for survival in older adults with intellectual disabilities?
Authors: Oppewal Alyt , Hilgenkamp Thessa I. M.
Published: March 2020

Background

Overweight/obesity and poor physical fitness are two prevalent lifestyle‐related problems in older adults with intellectual disabilities, which each require a different approach. To improve healthy ageing, we assessed whether fatness or fitness is more important for survival in older adults with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

In the HA‐ID study, we measured obesity and fitness of 874 older adults with intellectual disabilities (61.4 ± 7.8 years). All‐cause mortality was assessed over a 5‐year follow‐up period.

Results

Fitness, but not obesity, was significantly related to survival (HR range of 0.17–0.22). People who were unfit were 3.58 (95% CI = 1.72–7.46) to 4.59 (95% CI = 1.97–10.68) times more likely to die within the follow‐up period than people who were fit, regardless of obesity.

Conclusion

This was the first study to show that being fit is more important for survival than fatness in older adults with intellectual disabilities. The emphasis should, therefore, shift from weight reduction to improving physical fitness.
DNase I improves corneal epithelial and nerve regeneration in diabetic mice
Authors: Zhang Jing , Dai Yunhai , Wei Chao , Zhao Xiaowen , Zhou Qingjun , Xie Lixin
Published: March 2020

DNase I has been reported to improve diabetic wound healing through the clearance of neutrophils extracellular traps (NETs) caused by neutrophil aggregation. However, the function of DNase I on diabetic corneal wound healing remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effect and mechanism of topical DNase I application on diabetic mouse corneal epithelial and nerve regeneration. Corneal epithelial defects, inflammatory response, regeneration‐related signalling pathways, oxidative stress, corneal innervation and sensation were examined and compared between the diabetic and normal mice. The results confirmed firstly the increased NETs production during the delayed corneal epithelial wound healing of diabetic mice, which was significantly improved through either DNase I or Cl‐amidine administration. Mechanistically, DNase I improved inflammation resolution, reactivated epithelial regeneration‐related signalling pathways and attenuated the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, DNase I application also promoted corneal nerve regeneration and restored the impaired corneal sensitivity in diabetic mice. Therefore, these results indicate that topical DNase I application promotes corneal epithelial wound healing and mechanical sensation restoration in diabetic mice, representing the potential therapeutic approach for diabetic keratopathy.
A pilot study investigating the influence of oxytocin on attentional bias to food images in women with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder
Authors: Leslie Monica , Leppanen Jenni , Paloyelis Yannis , Treasure Janet
Published: March 2020

Background

Previous research has found that exogenous oxytocin administration has the potential to modulate attentional biases in women with anorexia nervosa. Recent work has indicated that attentional biases to food may reinforce the recurrent binge eating behaviour characterising bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. To date, however, no study has yet investigated the effect of oxytocin on attentional biases to palatable food in women with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Methods

The present study employed a single‐session cross‐over design to test the hypothesis that a divided dose of 64 IU of intranasal oxytocin, administered as one intranasal dose of 40 IU of oxytocin followed by a top‐up of 24 IU of oxytocin 80 minutes later, vs placebo administration administered in the same dosing schedule would reduce attentional biases towards food images in a dot probe task. We hypothesised that oxytocin administration would reduce vigilance towards food to a greater degree in women with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder vs healthy comparison women. Twenty‐five women with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder and 27 comparison women without history of an eating disorder were recruited to take part in the study.

Results

In contrast to our hypothesis, there was no main effect of diagnosis on attentional bias to food (fixed effect = 5.70, P = 0.363), nor a significant interaction between diagnosis and drug condition (fixed effect =−14.80, P = 0.645). There was a main effect of drug condition, such that oxytocin increased vigilance towards food vs neutral images in the dot probe task (fixed effect = 10.42, P = 0.044). A correlation analysis revealed that this effect was moderated by attentional bias in the placebo condition, such that greater avoidance of food stimuli in the placebo condition was associated with a greater increase in vigilance induced by oxytocin.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study add to a mixed body of literature investigating the therapeutic effects of oxytocin in women. Future research would benefit from dose‐response studies investigating the optimal dose of oxytocin for modulating the attentional processing of palatable food in populations with eating disorders.
Extreme exclusion and relative deprivation in subsistence marketplaces: A study in a refugee settlement in Nakivale, Uganda
Authors: Viswanathan Madhubalan , Alfonso Arias Robert , Sreekumar Arun
Published: March 2020

We study how refugees in a settlement face extreme marketplace exclusion through three phases of qualitative research. Overlaying the context of subsistence marketplaces, such exclusion is accentuated by refugee status, fleeing from unimaginable suffering. We interpret our findings in terms of relative deprivation, or the state of feeling deprived relative to some social reference, often used to understand how consumers feel deprived in terms of their relative financial status. We extend relative deprivation theory in research, introducing extreme marketplace deprivation. Whereas most relative deprivation research emphasizes social comparisons to other people, our study of the refugee settlement demonstrates the adverse effects of intrapersonal relative deprivation, that is, feeling deprived relative to one's past. We develop a theoretical framework to demarcate types of extreme marketplace deprivation, classifying these experiences in terms of consumption and livelihood along three facets (material, social, and psychological). We derive implications for consumer affairs.
Marketplace literacy education and coping behaviors among subsistence consumer–entrepreneurs during demonetization in India
Authors: Viswanathan Madhubalan , Jaikumar Saravana , Sreekumar Arun , Dutta Shantanu
Published: March 2020

We study the impact of marketplace literacy education on marketplace coping behaviors in the face of systemic shock due to demonetization, deriving important implications for consumer affairs from this radically distinct context. We study whether and how such education can have positive impact even in the face of such macrolevel disruption that disproportionately affects those with the least resources and renders them even more vulnerable. Marketplace literacy education encompasses awareness and knowledge about marketing as well as self‐confidence and awareness of rights as buyers and sellers. We examine the influence of marketplace literacy in urban and rural areas on coping behaviors of low‐income women consumer–entrepreneurs during demonetization in India, using a retrospective survey. We derive implications to mitigate the effect of future shocks on consumers and entrepreneurs at the vulnerable end of the income spectrum.
Do consumers view the nutrition facts panel when making healthfulness assessments of food products? Antecedents and consequences
Authors: Hastak Manoj , Mitra Anusree , Ringold Debra J.
Published: March 2020

Consumer use of the Nutrition Facts Panel (NFP) is an important topic of interest to researchers and public policymakers. Studies conducted in the United States and elsewhere find high levels of self‐reported use of the NFP or its equivalent. However, data from self‐reports may inflate estimated NFP use due to social desirability problems. Utilizing data from an online experiment, we examine whether consumers choose to view the NFP when assessing the nutritional properties and disease‐fighting abilities of foods. We also examine the antecedents of NFP‐viewing behavior and its implications for the accuracy of healthfulness judgments and the potential for overgeneralization. We conclude with a discussion of the public policy implications of our results and point to directions for future research.
Body hair removal: Prevalence, demographics, and body experience among men and women in Germany
Authors: Borkenhagen Ada , Mirastschijski Ursula , Strauss Bernhard , Gieler Uwe , Braehler Elmar
Published: March 2020

Background

Body hair removal is an increasing trend that has an impact on the individual's body image.

Aims

To characterize current body hair removal practices in Germany and the extent to which body hair removal was related to demographic characteristics, body image, and body mass index.

Patients/Methods

A national survey was conducted from September to October 2016 in men and women in Germany. Body experience was measured by a standardized questionnaire. In addition to sociodemographic data, age, gender, education, marital status, monthly income, and body mass index were collected.

Results

A total of n = 2510 participants aged 14 to 94 years (Mage = 48.4 years (SD = 18.2), 53.4% females) were randomly selected from the general population. 69% of the questioned women removed their body hair while only 41% of men do. The gender effect is statistically significant (χ2 = 203.43; df = 1; P < .001). Income, a higher level of education, and living in an urban region were significantly associated with body hair removal in both, men and women. Furthermore, significant differences with regard to body image were found between hair removers and nonremovers which are associated with a different attitude toward the own body.

Conclusions

Germans were likely to remove body hair if they were of younger age, better educated, and with high income. Hair removal is above all a women's issue. Especially, female hair removers experience their body as an esthetic entity with the need of active reshaping. There is a “shift” from ideal of a naturally hairy body to an increased hairlessness in Germany.
Single application of lamellar moisturizers provides significantly increased hydration of the stratum corneum for up to 24 hours in a randomized trial
Authors: Nisbet Stephanie J. , Dykes Peter , Snatchfold Jane
Published: March 2020

Background

Some moisturizing formulations can help restore and maintain the barrier function of the skin.

Objectives

This study was designed to assess the hydration potential of three lamellar moisturizers relative to a control (nonlamellar) moisturizer.

Methods

Healthy adults aged 18 to 65 years with self‐reported sensitive skin, dry or very dry skin and Corneometry values of ≤40 a.u. on the lower legs, entered this randomized, evaluator‐blind study. Products A and B together with a control product (Control X) were applied to one leg, while Product C and Control Y were applied to the other leg; with an untreated control site in both cases. The primary efficacy variable was the change from baseline in Corneometer assessments at 24 hours (Products A and B) or 12 hours (Product C) postapplication.

Results

At all timepoints (n = 30), Products A and B showed higher mean Corneometer readings compared to baseline and changes from baseline were statistically significant when compared to untreated sites. Higher mean readings relative to baseline were seen at sites treated with Control X (smaller magnitude than Product A and B) and with Product C. These changes were significant compared to the untreated site at 30 minutes and 2 hours (Control X), and at 30 minutes and 12 hours (Product C). Additionally, Control Y increased significantly at 12 hours.

Conclusion

A single application of a lamellar moisturizer significantly increased hydration of the stratum corneum for up to 24 hours (Products A and B) or 12 hours (Product C).
Sleep disturbance mediates the association of adverse childhood experiences with mental health symptoms and functional impairment in US soldiers
Authors: Conway Morgan A. , Cabrera Oscar A. , Clarke‐Walper Kristina , Dretsch Michael N. , Holzinger Jayne B. , Riviere Lyndon A. , Quartana Phillip J.
Published: March 2020

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have long‐term impacts on a person's mental health, which extend into adulthood. There is a high prevalence of ACEs among service members. Further, service members also report frequently experiencing disrupted sleep. We hypothesized that disrupted sleep may serve a mechanistic function connecting ACEs to functional impairment and poorer mental health. In a cross‐sectional sample (n = 759), we found evidence for an indirect effect of ACEs on mental health outcomes through disrupted sleep. In a different sample using two time‐points (n = 410), we found evidence for an indirect effect of ACEs on changes in mental health outcomes and functional impairment during a reset period, through changes in disrupted sleep during the same period. Implications, limitations and future research directions are discussed.
The production and comprehension of referring expressions: Definite description
Authors: Heller Daphna
Published: March 2020

This paper examines the topic of reference from the perspective of the production and comprehension of definite descriptions. We begin by reviewing evidence that the processes underlying reference production and comprehension are incremental. We then examine how the descriptive content of definite descriptions is selected and processed against a rich context that contains both visual and linguistic information, finding gradient effects that need to be combined. We also discuss the nature of referential domains, concluding that a definite description is not interpreted relative to a single referential domain and is instead influenced by two (and possibly more) domains whose influence is combined. The range of these findings calls for a probabilistic framework of reference that can accommodate gradient patterns.
Serum electrolyte dynamics in multiple myeloma patients undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Anandan Apoorva , Kolk Merle , Ferrari Nicole , Copley Melissa , Driscoll James , Caimi Paolo , Rashidi Arash , de Lima Marcos , Malek Ehsan
Published: March 2020

Aim

High‐dose melphalan followed by autologous haematopoietic cell transplantation remains the standard‐of‐care therapy for multiple myeloma (MM). Gastrointestinal toxicity concomitant with electrolyte derangement is a primary cause of morbidity from transplant. Here, we assessed the dynamics of electrolyte imbalances and its role in hematologic counts and engraftment. Ω Patients and Methods

One hundred and eighteen MM patients that received transplant were studied.

Results

Engraftment speed (ES) was calculated as the period between the first rise in the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and full engraftment defined as the first of three consecutive days with ANC > 500 × 106/L. The defined median ES was 2 days (range 0‐5 days) and 40 patients had ES ≤2 days. Engraftment occurred at a median of 10 days. The median time‐to‐nadir for phosphorus and potassium was 10 and 4.28 days, respectively. The drop in phosphorus and potassium serum level was statistically greater in patients with an ES ≤2 days compared to patients with ES ≥2 days. Magnesium level were not significantly affected and there was no significant difference between the drop in serum phosphorus and potassium based on severity of nausea or oral mucositis.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that there is a significant correlation between the magnitude of drop in potassium and phosphorous levels and a steep rise in neutrophil counts around the engraftment period following stem cell transplant. These events indicate a “genesis syndrome” characterized by a rapid, massive transfer of electrolytes into proliferating cells as has been previously described after HCT for certain high‐grade lymphomas and leukemias.
Identification of quantitative trait loci associated with iron deficiency chlorosis resistance in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: Pattanashetti Santosh K. , Pandey Manish K. , Naidu Gopalakrishna K. , Vishwakarma Manish K. , Singh Omprakash Kumar , Shasidhar Yaduru , Boodi Ishwar H. , Biradar Basavaraj D. , Das Roma Rani , Rathore Abhishek , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: March 2020

Iron deficiency chlorosis is an important abiotic stress affecting groundnut production worldwide in calcareous and alkaline soils with a pH of 7.5–8.5. To identify genomic regions controlling iron deficiency chlorosis resistance in groundnut, the recombinant inbred line population from the cross TAG 24 × ICGV 86031 was evaluated for associated traits like visual chlorosis rating and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading across three crop growth stages for two consecutive years. Thirty‐two QTLs were identified for visual chlorosis rating (3.9%–31.8% phenotypic variance explained [PVE]) and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading [3.8%–11% PVE] across three stages over 2 years. This is the first report of identification of QTLs for iron deficiency chlorosis resistance‐associated traits in groundnut. Three major QTLs (>10% PVE) were identified at severe stage, while majority of other QTLs were having small effects. Interestingly, two major QTLs for visual chlorosis rating at 60 days (2013) and 90 days (2014) were located at same position on LG AhXIII. The identified QTLs/markers after validation across diverse genetic material could be used in genomics‐assisted breeding.
Two‐day assertive‐case‐management educational program for medical personnel to prevent suicide attempts: A multicenter pre–post observational study
Authors: Kawashima Yoshitaka , Yonemoto Naohiro , Kawanishi Chiaki , Otsuka Kotaro , Mimura Masaru , Otaka Yasushi , Okamura Kazuya , Kinoshita Toshihiko , Shirakawa Osamu , Yoshimura Reiji , Eto Nobuaki , Hashimoto Satoshi , Tachikawa Hirokazu , Furuno Taku , Sugimoto Tatsuya , Ikeshita Katsumi , Inagaki Masatoshi , Yamada Mitsuhiko
Published: March 2020

Aim

Suicide attempters have a high risk of repeated suicide attempts and completed suicide. There is evidence that assertive case management can reduce the incidence of recurrent suicidal behavior among suicide attempters. This study evaluated the effect of an assertive‐case‐management training program.

Methods

This multicenter, before‐and‐after study was conducted at 10 centers in Japan. Participants were 274 medical personnel. We used Japanese versions of the Attitudes to Suicide Prevention Scale, the Gatekeeper Self‐Efficacy Scale, the Suicide Intervention Response Inventory (SIRI), and the Attitudes Toward Suicide Questionnaire. We evaluated the effects with one‐sample t‐tests, and examined prognosis factors with multivariable analysis.

Results

There were significant improvements between pre‐training and post‐training in the Attitudes to Suicide Prevention Scale (mean: −3.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.57 to −2.57, P < 0.001), the Gatekeeper Self‐Efficacy Scale (mean: 10.40, 95%CI: 9.48 to 11.32, P < 0.001), SIRI‐1 (appropriate responses; mean: 1.15, 95%CI: 0.89 to 1.42, P < 0.001), and SIRI‐2 (different to the expert responses; mean: −4.78, 95%CI: −6.18 to −3.38, P < 0.001). Significant improvements were found on all Attitudes Toward Suicide Questionnaire subscale scores, except Unjustified Behavior. The effect of training was influenced by experience of suicide‐prevention training and experience of working with suicidal patients.

Conclusion

The training program (which was developed to implement and disseminate evidence‐based suicide‐prevention measures) improved attitudes, self‐efficacy, and skills for suicide prevention among medical personnel. Specialized suicide‐prevention training and experience with suicidal patients are valuable for enhancing positive attitudes and self‐efficacy; furthermore, age and clinical experience alone are insufficient for these purposes.
Rethinking rural development in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady Delta through a historical food regimes frame
Authors: Vicol Mark , Pritchard Bill
Published: March 2020

Recent strategies to address rural poverty and food insecurity in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady Delta emphasize the scope for market‐based and smallholder‐led agricultural development to catalyze broader positive change for rural populations. This paper challenges the appropriateness of this development model for the Ayeyarwady Delta. Assumptions of latent growth potential among an emerging smallholder capitalist agricultural class fundamentally misinterpret how farming is embedded within the Delta's regional economy. Using a long historical perspective informed by the food regimes approach, as well as household‐level data from a recently completed livelihoods survey in two townships, we reveal a contemporary situation in which medium‐sized and large landholders control most agricultural production. We argue that this is a path‐dependent legacy from how the Delta has been successively incorporated into the politics of food production and trade at global and national scales. These arrangements have left the Delta without a broad smallholder base, meaning that policies that prioritize smallholder‐led market development will not generate the type of pro‐poor outcomes required to address the Delta's pervasive rates of food insecurity and poverty. Instead, a rural development agenda for the Delta should focus on its actually existing social and economic dynamics that are a legacy of its history.
The HLA‐A*33:03:42 allele identified in a volunteer donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Baek In‐Cheol , Choi Eun‐Jeong , Shin Dong‐Hwan , Kim Hyoung‐Jae , Kim Tai‐Gyu
Published: March 2020

HLA‐A*33:03:42 differs from HLA‐A*33:03:01:01 in codon 90 in exon 2.
Discovery of HLA‐B*35:368, a novel HLA‐B*35 variant, in a Singaporean Malay hematopoietic stem cell donor
Authors: Kaur Ashminder , Cho Louise , Cereb Nezih , Lin Py‐Yu , Yang Kuo‐Liang
Published: March 2020

DNA substitutions from codons 69 to 71 of HLA‐B*35:05:01:01 result in a novel allele, HLA‐B*35:368.
Recognition of HLA‐B*15:56, a variant of HLA‐B*15, in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Li Chi‐Cheng , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: March 2020

One nucleotide substitution at residue 272 of HLA‐B*15:01:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐B*15:56.
Effect of adding azithromycin to the antimalarials used for seasonal malaria chemoprevention on the nutritional status of African children
Authors: Gore‐Langton Georgia R. , Cairns Matthew , Compaoré Yves Daniel , Sagara Issaka , Kuepfer Irene , Zongo Issaka , de Wit Mariken M. , Barry Amadou , Diarra Modibo , Tapily Amadou , Coumare Samba , Thera Ismail , Nikiema Frederic , Yerbanga R. Serge , Guissou Rosemonde M. , Tinto Halidou , Dicko Alassane , Chandramohan Daniel , Greenwood Brian , Ouedraogo Jean Bosco
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Mass administration of azithromycin has reduced mortality in children in sub‐Saharan Africa but its mode of action is not well characterised. A recent trial found that azithromycin given alongside seasonal malaria chemoprevention was not associated with a reduction in mortality or hospital admissions in young children. We investigated the effect of azithromycin on the nutritional status of children enrolled in this study.

Methods

A total of 19 578 children in Burkina Faso and Mali were randomised to receive either azithromycin or placebo alongside seasonal malaria chemoprevention with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine monthly for three malaria transmission seasons (2014–2016). After each transmission season, anthropometric measurements were collected from approximately 4000 randomly selected children (2000 per country) at a cross‐sectional survey and used to derive nutritional status indicators. Binary and continuous outcomes between treatment arms were compared by Poisson and linear regression.

Results

Nutritional status among children was poor in both countries with evidence of acute and chronic malnutrition (24.9–33.3% stunted, 15.8–32.0% underweight, 7.2–26.4% wasted). There was a suggestion of improvement in nutritional status in Burkina Faso and deterioration in Mali over the study period. At the end of each malaria transmission season, nutritional status of children did not differ between treatment arms (seasonal malaria chemoprevention plus azithromycin or placebo) in either the intention‐to‐treat or per‐protocol analyses (only children with at least three cycles of SMC in the current intervention year).

Conclusions

The addition of azithromycin to seasonal malaria chemoprevention did not result in an improvement of nutritional outcomes in children in Burkina Faso and Mali.
Survival in the Tropics despite isolation, inbreeding and asexual reproduction: insights from the genome of the world’s southernmost poplar (Populus ilicifolia)
Authors: Chen Zeyuan , Ai Fandi , Zhang Junlin , Ma Xinzhi , Yang Wenlu , Wang Weiwei , Su Yutao , Wang Mingcheng , Yang Yongzhi , Mao Kangshan , Wang Qingfeng , Lascoux Martin , Liu Jianquan , Ma Tao
Published: March 2020

Species are becoming extinct at unprecedented rates as a consequence of human activity. Hence it is important to understand the evolutionary dynamics of species with already small population sizes. Populus ilicifolia is a vulnerable poplar species that is isolated from other poplar species and is uniquely adapted to the Tropics. It has a very limited size, reproduces partly clonally and is therefore an excellent case study for conservation genomics. We present here the first annotated draft genome of P. ilicifolia, characterize genome‐wide patterns of polymorphisms and compare those to other poplar species with larger natural ranges. P. ilicifolia experienced a more prolonged and severe decline of effective population size (Ne) and signs of genetic erosion than any other poplar species with which it was compared. At present, the species has the lowest genome‐wide genetic diversity, the highest abundance of long runs of homozygosity, high inbreeding levels as well as a high overall accumulation of deleterious variants. However, more effective purging of severely deleterious variants and adaptation to the Tropics may have contributed to its survival. Hence, in spite of its limited genetic variation, it is certainly worth pursuing the conservation efforts of this unique species.
Group O plasma as a media supplement for CAR‐T cells and other adoptive T‐cell therapies
Authors: Nelson Randin C. , Fellowes Vicki , Jin Ping , Liu Hui , Highfill Steven L. , Ren Jiaqiang , Szymanski James , Flegel Willy A. , Stroncek David F.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Most chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cells and other adoptive T‐cell therapies (ACTs) are currently manufactured by ex vivo expansion of patient lymphocytes in culture media supplemented with human plasma from group AB donors. As lymphocytes do not express A or B antigens, the isoagglutinins of non‐AB plasmas are unlikely to cause deleterious effects on lymphocytes in culture.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Seeding cultures with peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMNC) concentrates from group A1 donors and using a CAR‐T culture protocol, parallel cultures were performed, each with unique donor plasmas as media supplements (including group O plasmas with high‐titer anti‐A and group AB plasmas as control). An additional variable, a 3% group A1 red blood cell (RBC) spike, was added to simulate a RBC‐contaminated PBMNC collection. Cultures were monitored by cell count, viability, flow cytometric phenotype, gene expression analysis, and supernatant chemokine analysis.

RESULTS

There was no difference in lymphocyte expansion or phenotype when cultured with AB plasma or O plasma with high‐titer anti‐A. Compared to controls, the presence of contaminating RBCs in lymphocyte culture led to poor lymphocyte expansion and a less desirable phenotype—irrespective of the isoagglutinin titer of the plasma supplement used.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that ABO incompatible plasma may be used as a media supplement when culturing cell types that do not express ABO antigens—such as lymphocytes for CAR‐T or other ACT. The presence of contaminating RBCs in culture was disadvantageous independent of isoagglutinin titer.
Financial literacy and support for free trade in the UK
Authors: Magistro Beatrice
Published: March 2020

Recent events in Europe and the United States suggest that open economies are increasingly under stress as nationalist, protectionist and populist political entrepreneurs are gaining significant ground across the Western world. Many theories have been formulated as to which factors are more likely to explain such policy preferences. The hypothesis tested in this paper is that financial literacy affects economic policy preferences. I analyse data from the British Election Study and test my theory on support for free trade in the United Kingdom. Findings suggest that financial literacy does affect economic policy preferences. On average, financially literate individuals are more likely to think that free trade is good for the British economy. Furthermore, this is true regardless of economic self‐interest, as both financially literate winners and losers from globalisation are more likely to support free trade than their illiterate counterparts.
Median manubriotomy for ventral access to the caudal cervical and cranial thoracic spine
Authors: Mateo Isidro
Published: March 2020

Objective

To describe median manubriotomy to access the ventral aspect of the caudal cervical and cranial thoracic spine and report the outcomes in dogs with lesions affecting the spinal cord at C6‐T2 vertebral bodies. To evaluate possible complications of this technique and clinical outcomes.

Study design

Cadaveric study and short case series.

Study population

Two cadavers and nine dogs with lesions affecting the spinal cord at C6, C7, T1 or T2 vertebral bodies or corresponding intervertebral spaces.

Methods

Two cadavers were used for demonstration purposes. Medical records (2013‐2019) were reviewed for dogs undergoing median manubriotomy to facilitate access to the ventral aspect of C6‐T2 vertebral bodies and/or corresponding intervertebral disc spaces. Data on preoperative and postoperative neurological status and diagnostic imaging, surgical technique, and complications were retrieved.

Results

Indications for surgery included C7‐T1 disc extrusions in five dogs, caudal cervical misalignment in three dogs, and C7‐T1 and T1‐T2 disc protrusions in one dog. The vertebral bodies of C6 to T2 were consistently visualized after median manubriotomy. Preoperative clinical signs resolved in five dogs and improved in two dogs. One dog was euthanized for lack of improvement, and one dog died of pulmonary thromboembolism.

Conclusion

Median manubriotomy improved the surgical access to the ventral aspect of caudal cervical and cranial thoracic spine without related complications.

Clinical significance

Median manubriotomy can be considered in dogs undergoing ventral decompression and/or stabilization of C7‐T1 and T1‐T2 intervertebral disc spaces.
Characterization of Atmospheric Radiological Dispersion Alongside Risky Location Designation and Shelter House Proposition Around the Planned Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Fairuz Afrida , Sahadath Md. Hossain
Published: March 2020

The prevailing meteorological conditions around the site of the proposed Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant have been studied vigorously. The in-depth perusal has revealed the existence of three seasons—summer, rainy, and winter with stability classes A, B, and A, respectively, during the day and F during the night. The eventual wind speed and direction of the seasons have been observed. Subsequent locations along the dispersion directions have been identified using googleearthpro, which includes highways, educational institution, medical centers, commercial area, etc. Dose contours corresponding to a source term equivalent to Fukushima accident have been created to verify the dispersion direction and perceive the plume arrival time in the designated locations using health physics code HotSpot. Strong dependency of plume arrival time on the stability classes has been observed, and lowest values are found for F stability class. Finally, some shelter houses are proposed to accommodate endangered inhabitants during emergency.
Ignition Delay in Dual Fuel Engines: An Extended Correlation for Gaseous Fuels
Authors: Bilcan A. , Tazerout M. , Le Corre O. , Ramesh A.
Published: March 2020

Agricultural & municipal waste and wood residues can be easily converted to biogas or producer gas and used for producing heat and power. The main problem with these fuels is their low energy content. This is due to the presence of certain non-combustible gases like CO2 and N2 in these fuels. The use of these gases in SI engines is associated with problems like unstable operation and high levels of HC and CO emissions. Gaseous fuel can be easily used with good efficiencies and low emissions in diesel engines running in the dual-fuel mode. In dual-fuel engines, these gaseous fuels are inducted along with air and ignited after compression by a small spray of diesel called the pilot.

The presence of these gases alters the thermodynamic properties of the intake charge and significantly influence the ignition delay of the pilot diesel fuel and hence the performance of the engine.

The aim of this paper is to modify an existing correlation for ignition delay in a dual-fuel engine to incorporate the effects of the gaseous fuel concentration and composition on the polytropic index. An ignition delay correlation of a biogas dual-fuel engine was modified so that it can be used with any primary fuel. The polytropic index was assumed to be a function of the ratio of specific heats. Further, the effect of injection timing on ignition delay was included. The adapted model was introduced in a simulation program and the results of ignition delay were compared with those given in the literature for a dual-fuel engine. In addition, the correlation was used to predict the ignition delay of the pilot fuel when biogas, LPG, natural gas and producer gas were treated as primary fuels. The results obtained with the new correlation have been compared with experimental values from a LPG-diesel dual fuel engine. The comparison was also made for a biogas dual fuel engine. Errors less than 10% were obtained for both of the fuels between the experimental measurements and simulation results.
Pollution Studies on Gasoline Engine With Electrically Heated Catalyst
Authors: Sendilvelan S. , Jeyachandran K. , Bhaskar K.
Published: March 2020

The environmental pollution is one of the major strategic factors for decision-makers both in industry as well as in government. It has been established beyond doubt that the tailpipe emission shows significant effect on environment. It is clear that the vehicles form the predominant source of regulated and unregulated pollution. The environmental degradation all over the world has led to research, which resulted in the development of low emission vehicle and ultra low emission vehicle. In this work, performance of Low Mass Electrically Heated Metal Catalyst (LMEHMC) on the emission from SI engine has been experimentally investigated. Behaviors of chromium and copper oxides under various conditions were studied. It is found that the HC and CO emissions were reduced considerably when LMEHMC used with existing catalytic converter.