bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life and disease severity in dermatitis patients with fragrance allergy—A cross‐sectional European questionnaire study
Authors: Bennike Niels H. , Heisterberg Maria S. , White Ian R. , Mahler Vera , Silvestre‐Salvador Juan F. , Giménez‐Arnau Ana , Johansen Jeanne D.
Published: February 2019

Background

Fragrance contact allergy is common, but few studies on quality of life (QoL) in affected patients exist. Recently, the disease‐specific Fragrance Quality of Life Index (FQLI) was developed.

Objectives

To characterize QoL in European dermatitis patients with fragrance contact allergy at the time of diagnosis.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study, in which 2011 Danish, British, Spanish and German adult consecutive dermatitis patients were invited to complete a questionnaire on self‐reported disease severity, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and the FQLI immediately prior to being patch tested.

Results

One thousand seven hundred and fifty‐eight patients responded, and 259 (14.7%; country range 11.7%‐18.5%) were fragrance‐positive. Among these, the total (SD) DLQI score was 6.2 (5.6) and the total (SD) FQLI score was 60 (25), with both estimates being comparable to those in fragrance‐negative patients. Adjusting the total FQLI score for age, sex and self‐rated disease severity showed a higher (ie, worse) score in fragrance‐positive patients (3.6‐point increase; 95% confidence interval: 0.30‐6.8 points; P = 0.03). Specifically, contact allergy to oxidized linalool was associated with greater impairment in QoL.

Conclusions

QoL in patients with fragrance contact allergy is impaired at a level comparable to that in other patch tested dermatitis patients, at the time of diagnosis, across several European countries.
Antireflux covered metal stent for nonresectable distal malignant biliary obstruction: Multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hamada Tsuyoshi , Isayama Hiroyuki , Nakai Yousuke , Iwashita Takuji , Ito Yukiko , Mukai Tsuyoshi , Yagioka Hiroshi , Saito Tomotaka , Togawa Osamu , Ryozawa Shomei , Hirano Kenji , Mizuno Suguru , Yamamoto Natsuyo , Kogure Hirofumi , Yasuda Ichiro , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim

An antireflux metal stent (ARMS) for nonresectable distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) may prevent recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) as a result of duodenobiliary reflux and prolong time to RBO (TRBO). Superiority of ARMS over conventional covered self‐expandable metal stents (SEMS) has not been fully examined.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter randomized controlled trial to examine whether TRBO of an ARMS with a funnel‐shaped valve was longer than that of a covered SEMS in SEMS‐naïve patients. We enrolled 104 patients (52 patients per arm) at 11 hospitals in Japan. Secondary outcomes included causes of RBO, adverse events, and patient survival.

Results

TRBO did not differ significantly between the ARMS and covered SEMS groups (median, 251 vs 351 days, respectively; P = 0.11). RBO as a result of biliary sludge or food impaction was observed in 13% and 9.8% of patients who received an ARMS and covered SEMS, respectively (P = 0.83). ARMS was associated with a higher rate of stent migration compared with the covered SEMS (31% vs 12%, P = 0.038). Overall rates of adverse events were 20% and 18% in the ARMS and covered SEMS groups, respectively (P = 0.97). No significant between‐group difference in patient survival was observed (P = 0.26).

Conclusions

The current ARMS was not associated with longer TRBO compared with the covered SEMS. Modifications including addition of an anti‐migration system are required to use the current ARMS as first‐line palliative treatment of distal MBO (UMIN‐CTR clinical trial registration number: UMIN000014784).
Monitoring the SDGs: Digital and social technologies to ensure citizen participation, inclusiveness and transparency
Authors: Saner Raymond , Yiu Lichia , Nguyen Melanie
Published: February 2019

Motivation

The article shows that the measurement of SDG attainment remains vague and incomplete and argues that participation‐based and inclusive monitoring must be an integral part of managing the SDG implementation process.

Purpose

Countries are supposed to review their progress of SDG implementation every four years, but the method of reviewing is left open. In addition, and even more urgent is the need to improve on the inadequate definition of monitoring methods that countries are supposed to deploy.

Approach and methods

The article reviews the various options currently available to conduct the four‐year review and the methods of on‐going SDG monitoring.

Findings

The analysis shows that the SDG monitoring methods have not yet been defined, leaving stakeholders (governments, business and civil society) without appropriate guidance.

Policy implications

The authors propose two types of monitoring: micro‐monitoring and macro‐monitoring, both of which are necessary to ensure effective and efficient monitoring in achieving process accountability, institutional learning, and innovation.
Long‐term outcomes in 3 cases of quadricuspid aortic valve, using a new classification system: A case series and literature review
Authors: Tsugu Toshimitsu , Murata Mitsushige , Endo Jin , Kawakami Takashi , Tsuruta Hikaru , Itabashi Yuji , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: February 2019

Quadricuspid aortic valve has been classified based on leaflet size. However, no association is seen between classification and severity of aortic regurgitation (AR). Bicuspid aortic valve is classified according to the number of cusps, with significantly higher prevalence of AR in cases with a raphe. We classified cases according to raphe number. In 1 patient with no raphe, AR severity did not change into the eighth decade. However, AR severity worsened in patients with a raphe, in 1 case requiring aortic valve replacement in the fifth decade. Unequal shear stress may lead to leaflet fibrosis and progressive AR.
Comparison of chloral hydrate and pentobarbital sedation for pediatric echocardiography
Authors: Ganigara Madhusudan , Srivastava Shubhika , Malik Preeti , Fong Sherman , Ko Helen , Parness Ira , Shenoy Rajesh
Published: February 2019

Background

In 2013, outpatient use of chloral hydrate (CH) was limited and other alternatives such as oral pentobarbital (PB) were explored to achieve conscious sedation in young children for transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). We aimed to assess efficacy and safety of the two medications.

Methods

Clinical information, from a computerized database, about children who received sedation with either CH or PB for TTE at our center (2008–2015) was reviewed, and the two groups were compared for sedation effectiveness and complications.

Results

Three thousand eight hundred fifty one pediatric patients (median age 8 months) underwent conscious sedation during TTE (mean doses CH 50 mg/kg, PB 4 mg/kg). Demographic characteristics of the two groups were similar. Sedation failure rate (CH 2.4%, PB 2.9%, P = NS), need for supplemental doses (CH 17.9%, PB 16.2%, P = NS), and overall adverse event rate (PB 1.4%, CH 1.9%; P = NS) were similar in the two groups. There were fewer episodes of respiratory depression with PB (0.3% vs 1.6%, P < 0.05). The rate of paradoxical reactions was higher with PB (1% vs 0.03%, P < 0.05). Increasing age predicted the need for supplemental doses and for sedation failure in both groups. Neonates (7.5% vs 0%) and infants (2% vs 0.6%) given CH were more likely to develop adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Chloral hydrate and PB are equally effective. However, CH is associated with an increased incidence of transient desaturation, while PB is associated with an increased incidence of a paradoxical reaction. Increasing age is predictive of the need for supplemental doses and for failure of sedation in both groups.
The ratio potassium‐to‐magnesium intake and high blood pressure
Authors: Guerrero‐Romero Fernando , Rodríguez‐Morán Martha
Published: February 2019

Background

To analyse whether the weight ratio of potassium‐to‐magnesium intake is associated with incident high blood pressure, in otherwise healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods

A total of 529 healthy individuals were enrolled in a cross‐sectional study and allocated into following groups: group 1) potassium and magnesium intake within Recommended Dietary Allowance; group 2) magnesium intake as recommended and potassium intake below of recommended dietary allowance; group 3) potassium intake as recommended and magnesium intake below of recommended dietary allowance; and group 4) magnesium and potassium intake below recommended dietary allowance. Groups in study were matched by sodium and calcium intake. A “24 hours recall” questionnaire was used to register all intakes of food and drinks for two consecutive days. Multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted by sex, waist circumference, and triglycerides levels was used to compute the odds ratio between intakes of magnesium and potassium with the high blood pressure.

Results

High blood pressure was identified in 155 (29.3%) individuals. There were no statistical significant differences by obesity and overweight between the groups. As compared with individuals in the group 1, the potassium‐to‐magnesium ratio (odds ratio 0.88; 95%CI 0.85‐0.93) but not the isolated magnesium and potassium intake per se, was inversely associated to high blood pressure in the subjects of group 4; individuals in the groups 2 and 3 showed no association.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that, in healthy individuals with magnesium and potassium intake below recommended dietary allowance, the high potassium‐to‐magnesium ratio is inversely associated with incident high blood pressure.
Host plant or geographic barrier? Reproductive compatibility among Diatraea saccharalis populations from different host plant species and locations in Argentina
Authors: Fogliata Sofia V. , Herrero María I. , Vera Martín A. , Castagnaro Atilio P. , Gastaminza Gerardo , Murúa María G.
Published: February 2019

The sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is one of the main lepidopteran pests of sugarcane and maize. The association of insects with different environments and/or host plants may occur by adaptation and this can generate host races. Adaptation may produce phenotypic or genotypic variation, which results in the differences in bioecological characteristics such as reproductive compatibility that reduces gene flow among populations. The objective of this study was to determine the reproductive compatibility of three population combinations collected in various geographic locations and from different host plants, thereby determining the influence of geographic distance and/or insect plant association. Interpopulation crosses of D. saccharalis populations from Tucumán (maize and sugarcane) and Jujuy (sugarcane) provided evidence of pre‐zygotic and post‐zygotic incompatibility. The results indicate that gene flow barriers are influenced by the host plant. However, populations from various locations revealed that geographical location is the main factor influencing gene flow among populations of D. saccharalis.
Multiple guests in a single host: interactions across symbiotic and phytopathogenic bacteria in phloem‐feeding vectors – a review
Authors: Gonella Elena , Tedeschi Rosemarie , Crotti Elena , Alma Alberto
Published: February 2019

Some pathogenic phloem‐limited bacteria are a major threat for worldwide agriculture due to the heavy economic losses caused to many high‐value crops. These disease agents – phytoplasmas, spiroplasmas, liberibacters, and Arsenophonus‐like bacteria – are transmitted from plant to plant by phloem‐feeding Hemiptera vectors. The associations established among pathogens and vectors result in a complex network of interactions involving also the whole microbial community harboured by the insect host. Interactions among bacteria may be beneficial, competitive, or detrimental for the involved microorganisms, and can dramatically affect the insect vector competence and consequently the spread of diseases. Interference is observed among pathogen strains competing to invade the same vector specimen, causing selective acquisition or transmission. Insect bacterial endosymbionts are another pivotal element of interactions between vectors and phytopathogens, because of their central role in insect life cycles. Some symbionts, either obligate or facultative, were shown to have antagonistic effects on the colonization by plant pathogens, by producing antimicrobial substances, by stimulating the production of antimicrobial substances by insects, or by competing for host infection. In other cases, the mutual exclusion between symbiont and pathogen suggests a possible detrimental influence on phytopathogens displayed by symbiotic bacteria; conversely, examples of microbes enhancing pathogen load are available as well. Whether and how bacterial exchanges occurring in vectors affect the relationship between insects, plants, and phytopathogens is still unresolved, leaving room for many open questions concerning the significance of particular traits of these multitrophic interactions. Such complex interplays may have a serious impact on pathogen spread and control, potentially driving new strategies for the containment of important diseases.
Home care of acute leukaemia patients: From active therapy to end‐of‐life and palliative care. The 3‐year experience of a single centre
Authors: Capodanno Isabella , Tamagnini Enrica , Alfieri Pierluigi , Codeluppi Katia , Luminari Stefano , Merli Francesco
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility and the potential effects of the Haematological Home Care (HHC) programme for acute leukaemia (AL) patients, either in active chemotherapy or in the terminal phase of disease.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed a group of AL patients assisted at home in terms of number of hospitalisations, accesses to emergency department and place of death. We also used historical data to evaluate potential effects of HHC.

Results

The study group consisted of 44 patients, 36 of whom (82%) required palliative treatment, and eight (18%) had ongoing active chemotherapy. The mean number of hospitalisations was 0.64 (range 0‐7) per patient, and the number of emergency department (ED) visits was 0.82 (range 0‐4) per patient. Place of death was at home for 51.4% of patients and in hospital for 40.5%. Considering a historical group of 17 patients assisted at home the rate of hospitalisations and ED visits were 2.53 (range 0‐9) and one (range 0‐3), respectively. Place of death was home and hospital in 6% and 65%, respectively.

Conclusions

Haematological Home Care for AL patients is feasible and has potential positive effects in terms rate of hospitalisations and place of death.
Expectancy modulates pupil size both during endogenous orienting and during re‐orienting of spatial attention: A study with isoluminant stimuli
Authors: Lasaponara Stefano , Fortunato Gianfranco , Dragone Alessio , Pellegrino Michele , Marson Fabio , Silvetti Massimo , Pinto Mario , D'Onofrio Marianna , Doricchi Fabrizio
Published: February 2019

We have recently demonstrated that when endogenous orienting of spatial attention is guided by central directional cues that reliably predict the position of lateral targets. Pupil Dilation (PDil) is higher as compared with directional cues that do not predict target position. These findings were interpreted as reflecting different levels of Locus Coeruleus‐Noradrenergic activity during endogenous orienting. In contrast to this, we were not able to highlight reliable differences between PDil responses to infrequent invalid targets that are associated with predictive cues and frequent invalid targets that are associated with non‐predictive ones. These null findings might have been due to the spurious influence of transitory changes in luminance at the moment of target presentation or to the short time window used for the analysis of target‐related changes in PDil. Here, we re‐explored cue‐ and target‐related changes in PDil using cue and target stimuli that were kept isoluminant to their background and long lasting cue and target periods for data recording and analysis. We fully replicate our previous cue‐related results and, in addition, we demonstrate that infrequent invalid targets in the predictive experimental condition evoke larger PDil as compared with frequent ones. Analyses with Linear Mixed Models highlighted that both during the cue and target period, higher levels of PDil were associated with slower reaction times. These findings confirm that PDil is a reliable marker of the expectancy components of endogenous cue‐related and exogenous target‐related orienting of spatial attention.
A multiscale hybrid mathematical model of epidermal‐dermal interactions during skin wound healing
Authors: Wang Yangyang , Guerrero‐Juarez Christian F. , Qiu Yuchi , Du Huijing , Chen Weitao , Figueroa Seth , Plikus Maksim V. , Nie Qing
Published: February 2019

Following injury, skin activates a complex wound healing programme. While cellular and signalling mechanisms of wound repair have been extensively studied, the principles of epidermal‐dermal interactions and their effects on wound healing outcomes are only partially understood. To gain new insight into the effects of epidermal‐dermal interactions, we developed a multiscale, hybrid mathematical model of skin wound healing. The model takes into consideration interactions between epidermis and dermis across the basement membrane via diffusible signals, defined as activator and inhibitor. Simulations revealed that epidermal‐dermal interactions are critical for proper extracellular matrix deposition in the dermis, suggesting these signals may influence how wound scars form. Our model makes several theoretical predictions. First, basal levels of epidermal activator and inhibitor help to maintain dermis in a steady state, whereas their absence results in a raised, scar‐like dermal phenotype. Second, wound‐triggered increase in activator and inhibitor production by basal epidermal cells, coupled with fast re‐epithelialization kinetics, reduces dermal scar size. Third, high‐density fibrin clot leads to a raised, hypertrophic scar phenotype, whereas low‐density fibrin clot leads to a hypotrophic phenotype. Fourth, shallow wounds, compared to deep wounds, result in overall reduced scarring. Taken together, our model predicts the important role of signalling across dermal‐epidermal interface and the effect of fibrin clot density and wound geometry on scar formation. This hybrid modelling approach may be also applicable to other complex tissue systems, enabling the simulation of dynamic processes, otherwise computationally prohibitive with fully discrete models due to a large number of variables.
Multiple epigenetic biomarkers for evaluation of students' academic performance
Authors: Lee Li‐Ching , Su Ming‐Tsan , Cho Ying‐Chun , Lee‐Chen Guey‐Jen , Yeh Ting‐Kuang , Chang Chun‐Yen
Published: February 2019

Several reports have shown that methyl CpG‐binding protein 2 (MeCP2), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), phospho‐cAMP response element‐binding protein (p‐CREB) and microRNAs may be important in regulating academic performance because of their roles in neuropsychiatry and cognitive diseases. The first goal of this study was to explore the associations among MeCP2, BDNF, CREB and academic performance. This study also examined the pathway responsible for the effects of MeCP2, BDNF, p‐CREB and microRNAs on academic performance. Scores from the basic competency test, an annual national competitive entrance examination, were used to evaluate academic performance. Subjects' plasma RNA was extracted and analyzed. This study determined that participants in the higher academic performance group had a significant difference in MECP2 mRNA expression compared with the lower academic performance group. We then used neuronal human derived neuroblastoma cell line (SH‐SY5Y) cells with inducible MeCP2 expression from a second copy of the gene as a gain‐of‐function model and found that MeCP2 overexpression positively affected p‐CREB and BDNF expression initially. After negative feedback, the p‐CREB and BDNF levels subsequently decreased. In the neuronal phenotype examination, we found a significant reduction in total outgrowth and branches in MeCP2‐induced cells compared with noninduced cells. This work describes pathways that may be responsible for the effects of MeCP2, BDNF, p‐CREB and microRNAs on academic performance. These results may shed light on the development of promising clinical treatment strategies in the area of neuropsychological adjustment.
Future recovery of baleen whales is imperiled by climate change
Authors: Tulloch Vivitskaia J. D. , Plagányi Éva E. , Brown Christopher , Richardson Anthony J. , Matear Richard
Published: February 2019

Historical harvesting pushed many whale species to the brink of extinction. Although most Southern Hemisphere populations are slowly recovering, the influence of future climate change on their recovery remains unknown. We investigate the impacts of two anthropogenic pressures—historical commercial whaling and future climate change—on populations of baleen whales (blue, fin, humpback, Antarctic minke, southern right) and their prey (krill and copepods) in the Southern Ocean. We use a climate–biological coupled “Model of Intermediate Complexity for Ecosystem Assessments” (MICE) that links krill and whale population dynamics with climate change drivers, including changes in ocean temperature, primary productivity and sea ice. Models predict negative future impacts of climate change on krill and all whale species, although the magnitude of impacts on whales differs among populations. Despite initial recovery from historical whaling, models predict concerning declines under climate change, even local extinctions by 2100, for Pacific populations of blue, fin and southern right whales, and Atlantic/Indian fin and humpback whales. Predicted declines were a consequence of reduced prey (copepods/krill) from warming and increasing interspecific competition between whale species. We model whale population recovery under an alternative scenario whereby whales adapt their migratory patterns to accommodate changing sea ice in the Antarctic and a shifting prey base. Plasticity in range size and migration was predicted to improve recovery for ice‐associated blue and minke whales. Our study highlights the need for ongoing protection to help depleted whale populations recover, as well as local management to ensure the krill prey base remains viable, but this may have limited success without immediate action to reduce emissions.
Volatile emissions from thawing permafrost soils are influenced by meltwater drainage conditions
Authors: Kramshøj Magnus , Albers Christian N. , Svendsen Sarah H. , Björkman Mats P. , Lindwall Frida , Björk Robert G. , Rinnan Riikka
Published: February 2019

Vast amounts of carbon are bound in both active layer and permafrost soils in the Arctic. As a consequence of climate warming, the depth of the active layer is increasing in size and permafrost soils are thawing. We hypothesize that pulses of biogenic volatile organic compounds are released from the near‐surface active layer during spring, and during late summer season from thawing permafrost, while the subsequent biogeochemical processes occurring in thawed soils also lead to emissions. Biogenic volatile organic compounds are reactive gases that have both negative and positive climate forcing impacts when introduced to the Arctic atmosphere, and the knowledge of their emission magnitude and pattern is necessary to construct reliable climate models. However, it is unclear how different ecosystems and environmental factors such as drainage conditions upon permafrost thaw affect the emission and compound composition. Here we show that incubations of frozen B horizon of the active layer and permafrost soils collected from a High Arctic heath and fen release a range of biogenic volatile organic compounds upon thaw and during subsequent incubation experiments at temperatures of 10°C and 20°C. Meltwater drainage in the fen soils increased emission rates nine times, while having no effect in the drier heath soils. Emissions generally increased with temperature, and emission profiles for the fen soils were dominated by benzenoids and alkanes, while benzenoids, ketones, and alcohols dominated in heath soils. Our results emphasize that future changes affecting the drainage conditions of the Arctic tundra will have a large influence on volatile emissions from thawing permafrost soils – particularly in wetland/fen areas.
Subiculum volumes associated with memory function in the oldest‐old individuals aged 95 years and older
Authors: Eguchi Yoko , Noda Yoshihiro , Nakajima Shinichiro , Tsugawa Sakiko , Kida Hisashi , Plitman Eric , Graff‐Guerrero Ariel , Chakravarty Mallar M , Takayama Midori , Arai Yasumichi , Matsuda Hiroshi , Mimura Masaru , Niimura Hidehito
Published: February 2019

Aim

Few cohort studies targeting the oldest‐old individuals have been carried out. The subiculum in the hippocampus is thought to be related to memory function, and atrophy of this structure might result in the conversion from amnestic mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. Thus, we sought to examine the relationship between subiculum volumes and memory function in individuals aged ≥95 years, using a novel cognitive examination called the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination III (ACE‐III) and an advanced magnetic resonance imaging analytical method, Multiple Automatically Generated Templates Brain Segmentation Algorithm (MAGeTbrain), to measure hippocampal subfield volumes.

Methods

A part of the cohort data of the Arakawa 95+ study for the oldest‐old aged ≥95 years was used. A total of 10 individuals completed all of the examinations. The MAGeT brain was applied to estimate the subfield volumes of the hippocampus. Correlation analyses and multiple regression analyses were carried out to examine a relationship among ACE‐III memory scores and the subfield volumes in the hippocampus, including the subiculum.

Results

There was a significant relationship between ACE‐III memory scores and subdivision volumes. Regression analyses showed that subiculum volumes were associated with ACE‐III memory scores in the oldest‐old individuals (β = 0.721, P = 0.019; F1, 8 = 8.67, adjusted R2 = 0.46).

Conclusions

The subiculum might play a pivotal role in memory function in the oldest‐old individuals aged ≥95 years. The present finding warrants further research including larger sample sizes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 347–351.
Sending Granny to Chiang Mai: debating global outsourcing of care for the elderly
Authors: SCHWITER KARIN , BRÜTSCH JILL , PRATT GERALDINE
Published: February 2019

This article ties in with existing discussions on global care chains, family separation and the devaluation of social‐reproductive work. We explore the new trend of outsourcing care for the elderly to countries with lower wages. We base our analysis on the debate in the German press and supplement it with insights from ethnographic field observations in two care homes in Thailand. We identify a discourse of abandonment, which shows how outsourcing the care of the elderly unsettles the privilege of sedentarism that is often taken for granted in the Global North. Furthermore, the newspaper articles tend to villainize people who seek care for their loved ones abroad. We argue that both discourses foster a neoliberal rationale of individualized responsibility and obfuscate the deep systemic roots of the care crisis in the Global North. However, by extending the discussion on outsourcing care for the elderly beyond the dominant media discourses, we envisage a rich potential for provoking political debate on the revaluation of care.
Fluorescent ornamentation in the Rhinoceros Auklet Cerorhinca monocerata
Authors: Wilkinson Bradley P. , Johns Michael E. , Warzybok Pete
Published: February 2019

Avian species have developed a range of markers for transmitting information, among them ornamented plumage, behavioural patterns and conspicuous bill structures. Members of the marine subfamily Fraterculinae have some of the most visibly noticeable ornaments among seabirds, and some species have been recently found to possess fluorescent properties in seasonally acquired bill plates. We examined a member of this subfamily, the Rhinoceros Auklet Cerorhinca monocerata, for fluorescence in the upper and lower mandibles as well as the namesake horn grown in preparation for mate selection. Fluorescence was noted primarily in the horn of adults, with greater variation present among individuals than between the sexes.
Collecting insects to conserve them: a call for ethical caution
Authors: Fischer Bob , Larson Brendon M. H.
Published: February 2019

Insect sampling for the purpose of measuring biodiversity – as well as entomological research more generally – largely assumes that insects lack consciousness. Here, we briefly present some arguments that insects are conscious and encourage entomologists to revisit their ethical codes in light of them.

Specifically, we adapt the Three Rs, guidelines proposed in 1959 by WMS Russell and RL Burch that have become the dominant way of thinking about the ethics of using animals in research.

The Three Rs specify the need to replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in research, yet have received little attention in entomological circles, which is perhaps unsurprising given that Russell and Burch explicitly excluded invertebrates from their purview.

As a specific case, we consider issues of suffering and bycatch in the use of Malaise traps for insect sampling.

While we do not claim that entomologists have an obligation to adopt the Three Rs framework wholesale, we do suggest that there is reason to adopt it in a modified form to mitigate moral risk especially in the context of conservation.
Influence of nanostructured calcium aluminate and calcium silicate on the liver: histological and unbiased stereological analysis
Authors: Paraš S. , Janković O. , Trišić D. , Čolović B. , Mitrović‐Ajtić O. , Dekić R. , Soldatović I. , Živković Sandić M. , Živković S. , Jokanović V.
Published: February 2019

Aim

To examine the potential systemic toxicity of nanostructured materials based on calcium silicate and calcium aluminate, for potential application in Dentistry.

Methodology

Twenty‐four Albino Wistar rats aged 2 months were used as an in vivo animal model for subcutaneous implantation of the investigated materials, placed in polyethylene tubes. Thirty days after implantation, the livers of the rats were analysed and following histological and stereological parameters were evaluated for volume density of hepatocytes and blood sinusoids, number and numerical density of hepatocytes, surface of hepatocytes and their nucleuses, nucleocytoplasmic ratio and mitotic index of hepatocytes. Stereological measurements were achieved using Cavalieri's principle, with grid P2 and unbiased analysis. Additionally, immunohistochemistry studies were performed to further analyse changes in liver tissue. Several haematological and biochemical parameters of blood of experimental animals were also analysed, as well as local tissue reactions around the implants. Statistical analysis was performed using parametric (anova and t‐test) and nonparametric tests (Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U‐test) depending on data distribution.

Results

Implanted dental cements led to an increase in stereological and histological parameters in liver tissue compared to control rats. Although the investigated parameters mostly showed significant differences between control and experimental animals, the liver tissue of the experimental animals did not have visible signs of pathological changes. This was supported by the analysis of blood parameters which were not significantly different between control and experimental animals. Also, the subcutaneous tissues had minimal inflammatory reactions. Immunohistochemistry studies revealed that nanostructured materials induced proliferation of hepatocytes, but that the immunological response to the materials was not strong enough to induce proliferation of immunoreactive cells in liver in the observed time period.

Conclusions

This study was performed as a contribution to the attestation of the biocompatibility of dental cements based on calcium silicate and calcium aluminate. Although these materials induced several changes in the liver structure, they were not clinically relevant and represent a normal and reversible response of the liver to the presence of biocompatible materials in the body. Blood and immunohistochemistry analyses and local tissue reactions further confirmed that these materials possess good biocompatible potential.
Fabrication, thermal shock resistance, and dielectric property of α‐Si3N4‐based ceramic coating on porous Si3N4 ceramics
Authors: Wang Chao , Xia Yi , Qiao Ruiqing , Zhang Fan , Chen Lijia , Wang Zhanjie
Published: February 2019

A dense α‐Si3N4‐based ceramic protective coating was successfully prepared on porous Si3N4 ceramics by a liquid infiltration and filling method. The coating composed of a primary α‐Si3N4 phase and secondary O'‐Sialon, β‐Sialon, and Y–Si–Al–O–N glass phase. After thermal shock at ΔT = 1000°C for five times, cracks were produced, but the tip of crack stopped inside the coating; so the coated porous Si3N4 ceramics still had a good waterproof ability and its water absorption was only 7%. During thermal shock, toughening mechanisms involving needle‐like O'‐Sialon particle bridging, crack deflection, and rough fracture, occurred within the cracks, contributing to thermal shock resistance of the coating. The dielectric constant of the coated porous Si3N4 ceramics showed a slow increase trend with increasing temperature, and it reached the maximum value of 3.57 at 1100°C at the frequency of 11 GHz. The dielectric loss increased slowly as the temperature increased from room temperature to 900°C, but it started to increase evidently when the temperature was over 900°C.
Critical evaluation of the extrapolation of data relative to antioxidant function from the laboratory and their implications on food production and human health: a review
Authors: Munialo Claire D. , Naumovski Nenad , Sergi Domenico , Stewart David , Mellor Duane D.
Published: February 2019

The use of the word ‘antioxidant’ has become widespread in food science, nutrition and consumer language, having become associated with potential health benefits linked to consuming sources of antioxidants in our food supply. However, there is significant doubt about direct antioxidant effects on human health. This may partly relate to methodology used for assessing functionality and activity (both in food matrices and in human health) as well as how data is extrapolated with respect to health based on laboratory analyses. In this review, the purpose and impact of antioxidants in food systems and on human health will be discussed, along with highlighting the best current methodology for analysing antioxidant effects. Consideration will also be made with respect to recommendations of how antioxidant activity should be reported, with a focus on being both scientifically accurate as well as minimising the risk of unwarranted extrapolations of benefits which might mislead end consumers.
Superchilled, chilled and frozen storage of Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) fillets – changes in texture, drip loss, protein solubility and oxidation
Authors: Cropotova Janna , Mozuraityte Revilija , Standal Inger B. , Grøvlen Magnhild S. , Rustad Turid
Published: February 2019

Changes in quality characteristics in relation to protease activity and protein oxidation in chilled, superchilled and frozen mackerel fillets during storage were studied. The solubility of sarcoplasmic proteins was quite stable in mackerel samples for all storage experiments, whereas the solubility of myofibrillar proteins decreased in both superchilled and frozen samples. A significant correlation (r = 0.983, P < 0.05) between the increased activity of cathepsin B+L in chilled fillets and softening of the fish flesh during storage was revealed. Contrary with chilled samples, the texture of superchilled mackerel fillets became tougher along the storage period, which can be explained by a higher rate of myofibrillar oxidation (r = 0.940, P < 0.05). The hardness and drip loss decreased slightly at the end of frozen storage. Superchilling preserved the quality of mackerel fillets with the least side effects in relation to protein solubility, drip loss and softening of the fish tissue as compared to chilled and frozen storage.
Phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain affects actomyosin dissociation and myosin degradation
Authors: Cao Lichuang , Hou Chengli , Shen Qingwu , Zhang Dequan , Wang Zhenyu
Published: February 2019

This research aimed to investigate the influence of myosin regulatory light chain (MRLC) phosphorylation on actomyosin dissociation and myosin degradation in post‐mortem ovine longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle with a purpose for strategies to improve meat quality in practice. Data obtained show that the highest actomyosin dissociation occurred at 48 h post‐mortem. Based on the cluster analysis of the actomyosin dissociation degree at 48 h post‐mortem, samples were divided into high, middle and low‐actomyosin dissociation groups. During 0.5–72 h post‐mortem, the phosphorylation level of MRLC significantly decreased (P < 0.05), while actomyosin dissociation, and degradation of MRLC and myosin heavy chains (MHC) significantly increased (P < 0.05). The level of MRLC phosphorylation was negatively correlated with the degree of actomyosin dissociation (r = −0.794, P < 0.05), and the degradation of MRLC (r = −0.764, P < 0.05) and MHC (r = −0.826, P < 0.05). In conclusion, phosphorylation of MRLC may regulate actomyosin dissociation, as well as degradation of MRLC and MHC.
Clinical aspects of egg bioactive peptide research: a review
Authors: Grootaert Charlotte , Voorspoels Stefan , Jacobs Griet , Matthijs Bea , Possemiers Sam , Van der Saag Hans , Van Camp John , Lucey Alice
Published: February 2019

Extensive in vitro and, to a more limited extent, animal research have demonstrated the health potential of a wide set of egg protein hydrolysates; however, well‐designed human intervention studies are scarce. Health claim assessment, however, sets high standards for characterisation of the bioactive peptides, investigation of the mode‐of‐action and convincing human intervention studies. In this review, we discuss the state‐of‐the‐art and knowledge gaps related to egg‐derived peptide bioavailability and bioactivity. In addition, we will formulate recommendations for appropriate design of future human intervention trials with egg‐derived peptides.
Can kidneys be saved in patients with urinary tuberculosis? A study in the era of modern chemotherapy and surgical armamentarium
Authors: Kumar Amar , Dangi Anuj D , Mukha Rajiv P , Panda Arabind , Jeychandraberry Chandrasingh , Kumar Santosh , Devasia Antony , Kekre Nitin S
Published: February 2019

Objective

To assess renal unit survival and factors affecting renal salvageability in a cohort of patients receiving modern medical and surgical therapy for urinary tuberculosis.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐center study including all patients diagnosed and treated as urinary tuberculosis between 2005 and 2015 at Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. The primary outcome was time to renal unit non‐salvageability (estimated glomerular filtration rate of <15 mL/min).

Results

A total of 128 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 37.7 ± 11.3 years, 33% had microbiological and 73% had histopathological confirmation in addition to radiological diagnosis. The estimated median survival of the involved renal units (n = 187) on Kaplan–Meier estimate was 75 months (95% CI 39–99). On multivariate analysis, renal units with initial split function >15 mL/min had fivefold the survival estimate as compared with those ≤15 mL/min (P < 0.001); the presence of one, two and three infundibular strictures had a 2.2‐, 2.9‐ and fivefold higher hazard of renal unit loss respectively, and lower ureteric strictures had fivefold longer estimated survival (P = 0.015) after treatment. Renal units in the reconstruction group had 5.44‐fold (95% CI 2.71–10.88, P < 0.001) longer survival than the permanent diversion group, with a mean change in split function of +0.76 (±16.11) mL/min, versus −5.61 (±10.87) mL/min respectively.

Conclusions

Loss of renal units is a function of time despite modern treatment. Baseline renal unit function, site of ureteric involvement and extent of infundibular involvement on imaging are helpful in predicting the duration of renal salvageability. When feasible, reconstruction is better at renal function preservation.
Knowledge of parents/caregivers about the sleep bruxism of their children from all five Brazilian regions: A multicenter study
Authors: Prado Ivana Meyer , Paiva Saul Martins , Fonseca‐Gonçalves Andrea , Maia Lucianne Cople , Tavares‐Silva Claudia , Fraiz Fabian Calixto , Ferreira Fernanda Morais , Duarte Joyce , Granville‐Garcia Ana Flavia , Costa Edja Maria Melo Brito , Gomes Monalisa Cesarino , Ferreira Meire Coelho , Fagundes Daniela Malagoni , Alves Chirlene Lemos , Dutra André Luiz Tannus , Sarmento Naelka , Silva Mauricio Bacarin , Mohn Neto Carlos Rodolfo , Sacono Nancy Tomoko , Estrêla Renata Pereira , Serra‐Negra Junia Maria
Published: February 2019

Background

Sleep bruxism (SB) is a masticatory muscle activity that affects children. Parents’ knowledge is important for its identification and report to dentists.

Aim

To investigate parents’ knowledge about SB among their children.

Design

A cross‐sectional study included 1325 parents of children from dental clinics of seven institutions from all regions of Brazil. Parents answered questions about child's sleep, knowledge about SB and its occurrence among children and parents. SB definition given by parents was dichotomized as “correct”/“incorrect”, based on the American Academy of Sleep Medicine definition. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed (P < 0.05).

Results

Most parents (57.3%) did not know what SB is and 88.9% would like to receive more information. SB prevalence among parents was 15.4% and 24.0% among children. Between parents who correctly defined SB, its prevalence increased to 27.5% among parents and 40.6% among children. Parents whose children had/have SB, who would like to receive more information about SB and were from the North, Central‐West, Southeast, and South regions were more likely to define SB correctly (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

There is a lack of knowledge of parents about SB. SB among children, parents’ interest in receiving more information and their location were factors associated to their knowledge.
Translation and validation of the Korean version of the Diabetic Foot Ulcer Scale‐Short Form
Authors: Lee Ye‐Na
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to translate the Diabetic Foot Ulcer Scale‐Short Form (DFS‐SF) into Korean and evaluate its psychometric performance in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The DFS‐SF was translated into Korean using translation guidelines from the World Health Organization. The Korean version of DFS‐SF (DFS‐SF‐K) went through the full linguistic validation process and was evaluated in 320 Korean patients with DFU. For this study, Cronbach's alpha was used to evaluate the reliability of the DFS‐SF‐K. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and known‐group validity were conducted to examine construct validity. Correlation of the DFS‐SF‐K with SF‐36 was used to test concurrent validity of the DFS‐SF‐K. Cronbach's alpha was >0.70 for all scales. Factor loadings of the 29 items on the six subscales ranged from 0.82 to 0.95. The six‐subscale model was validated by CFA (x2/df = 4.55, P < 0.001, RMR = 0.06, GFI = 0.73, NFI = 0.90, TLI = 0.91, CFI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.10). Spearman's correlations and known‐groups comparisons supported construct validity. The newly translated DFS‐SF‐K may be used to assess the impact of QoL with DFUs in Korean patients.
Use of prophylactic silicone adhesive dressings for maintaining skin integrity in intensive care unit patients: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lee Yun J. , Kim Jung Y. , Shin Woo Y.
Published: February 2019

The aims of this randomised controlled study were to determine whether the application of silicone adhesive dressings with standard preventive care would reduce the impairment of skin integrity and to evaluate the subepidermal moisture (SEM) value in anatomical locations to predict impairment of skin integrity. Of the 71 intensive care unit patients enrolled, 35 and 31 were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups, respectively. The SEM value was measured at each site (the coccyx, sacrum, and both buttocks) repeatedly three times at every dressing change. Collected data were analysed by multivariate linear regression, and least square means analysis was used to compare the SEM value at the sites of pressure injury (PI) and blanching erythema. There were fewer PIs (1 vs 9) and incidences of blanching erythema (5 vs 6) in the intervention group than in the control group (P = 0.006). The SEM value and difference of the SEM value from the initial value was higher in the group with PIs than in the group without PIs (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.001, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence of impaired skin integrity between the groups. The SEM value may be an indicator for detecting impairment of skin integrity.
Factors influencing changing bowel habits in patients undergoing sphincter‐saving surgery for rectal cancer
Authors: Jeong Hyeonju , Park JeongYun
Published: February 2019

A research survey research was conducted to identify factors affecting changes in bowel habits of rectal cancer patients undergoing sphincter‐saving surgery and to provide basic information useful in nursing interventions supporting treatment for rectal cancer patients. The subjects were rectal cancer patients who had undergone sphincter‐saving surgery over 2 years ago. The final analysis included 107 patients who had made outpatient visits to the colorectal surgery from 12th to 31st May, 2014. Collected data were processed with SPSS Version 21.0. Changes in bowel habits in the subjects were observed: frequent bowel movement in 74 patients (69.2%) and faecal incontinence in 48 (44.9%). Most of the patients used self‐care to improve their bowel function including dietary modification (78.5%), regular exercise (72.0%) and pelvic floor exercise (34.6%). Frequent defecation was associated with adjuvant chemoradiation therapy (P < 0.001) and faecal incontinence was associated with age of ≥65 years (P = 0.019) and a group who underwent adjuvant radiation therapy (P < 0.001). It is necessary to give sufficient information about possible postoperative changes in bowel habits to patients with the risk factors before surgery.