bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The broad impacts of corn stover and wheat straw removal for biofuel production on crop productivity, soil health and greenhouse gas emissions: A review
Authors: Battaglia Martín , Thomason Wade , Fike John H. , Evanylo Gregory K. , von Cossel Moritz , Babur Emre , Iqbal Yasir , Diatta Andre A.
Published: October 2020

Biofuel production from crop residues is widely recognized as an essential component of developing a bioeconomy, but the removal of crop residues still raises many questions about the sustainability of the cropping system. Therefore, this study reviews the sustainability effects of crop residues removal for biofuel production in terms of crop production, soil health and greenhouse gas emissions. Most studies found little evidence that residue management had long‐term impacts on grain yield unless the available water is limited. In years when water was not limiting, corn and wheat removal rates ≥90% produced similar or greater grain yield than no removal in most studies. Conversely, when water was limiting, corn grain yield decreased up to 21% with stover removal ≥90% in some studies. Changes in soil organic fractions and nutrients depended largely on the amount of residue returned, soil depth and texture, slope and tillage. Reductions in organic fractions occurred primarily with complete stover removal, in the top 15–30 cm in fine‐textured soils. Soil erosion, water runoff and leaching of nutrients such as total nitrogen (N) and extractable soil potassium decreased when no more than 30% of crop residues were removed. Stover management effects on soil bulk density varied considerably depending on soil layer, and residue and tillage management, with removal rates of less than 50% helping to maintain the soil aggregate stability. Reductions in CO2 and N2O fluxes typically occurred following complete residue removal. The use of wheat straw typically increased CH4 emissions, and above or equal to 8 Mg/ha wheat straw led to the largest CO2 and N2O emissions, regardless of N rates. Before using crop residues for biofuel production, it should therefore always be checked whether neutral to positive sustainability effects can be maintained under the site‐specific conditions.
Changes in poor self‐rated health status among elderly Koreans over 10 years: Community Health Survey 2008–2017
Authors: Jung Jin‐Gyu , Yoon Seok‐Joon , Ahn Soon‐Ki , Kim Jong‐Sung , Nam Hae‐Sung , Ku Bon Jeong , Kim Ho , Kwon In‐Sun
Published: October 2020

Aim

This study investigated the change in self‐rated health (SRH) status among elderly Koreans and sought influential factors affecting SRH by reference to data collected during the Korean Community Health Survey 2008–2017.

Methods

We obtained raw data from the Korea Community Health Survey for 10 years (2008–2017), which included sociodemographic and health information on Koreans aged ≥65 years (242 552 men and 349 586 women). SRH was measured using the SRH scale and divided into not‐poor and poor. Logistic regression analyses of poor SRH were performed using a weighted sampling method and interaction models (year × variables) to represent the entire Korean elderly population and estimate the changes in poor SRH over time.

Results

The proportion of elderly subjects in the population increased over 10 years. After adjusting for all confounding variables, the weighted adjusted odds ratios for poor SRH decreased consistently between 2008 and 2017 (men: 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.50–0.81; women: 0.62, 0.46–0.83). The odds ratios for poor SRH were markedly higher in subjects who reported being stressed (men: 7.02, 5.89–8.38; women 6.14, 5.33–7.08) and those who lacked formal education (men: 2.42, 2.18–2.69; women 3.12, 2.59–3.75) over times.

Conclusions

Despite the increase in the proportion of the elderly, poor SRH among elderly Koreans decreased over the past 10 years. Poor SRH was associated with high‐level perceived stress and a lower educational level in both elderly men and women. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 1190–1195.
In situ graphitization role on oxidation resistance and physicomechanical properties of resin‐bonded Al2O3‐MgO castables
Authors: Talabi Segun I. , Luz Ana P. , Lucas Alessandra A.
Published: October 2020

The properties of carbon‐containing refractories (CCRs) depend on the presence of carbon with features close to graphite. However, the thermosetting resins that are used to bind such refractories together during the initial preparation stage usually produce non‐graphitic carbon when sintered, which can impair their overall performance. Based on this, ferrocene was used to induce graphitic carbon generation from a resole‐type phenolic resin during a sequential carbonization operation. The resin formulation containing the graphitizing agent was then used to prepare resin‐bonded Al2O3‐MgO castables. The role of in situ graphitization of the modified binder on the properties such as cold crushing strength, apparent porosity, and oxidation resistance was examined. The results show that crystallization of the binder carbon can improve the castable oxidation resistance. At ambient temperature, no significant difference was observed in the samples' physicomechanical properties. Nevertheless, holding time during the initial curing stage at 50°C played a significant role on those properties.
‘Don’t abandon me’: Young people’s experiences of child and adolescent psychiatric inpatient care supporting recovery described in blogs
Authors: Wallström Rebecca , Lindgren Eva , Gabrielsson Sebastian
Published: October 2020

Child and adolescent psychiatric (CAP) inpatient care has the potential to support or hinder young people’s mental‐health recovery. Research describing inpatient care from the perspective of young people is rare. Personal blogs provide an opportunity to further understand how inpatient care relates to young people’s recovery processes. This study aimed to explore young people’s experiences of CAP inpatient care supporting mental‐health recovery. The study is reported in accordance with the COREQ guidelines. Data were created during 2018 from twenty‐seven personal blogs describing first‐hand experiences of being a patient in a CAP inpatient care facility in Sweden and analysed using a method for interpretive description. Information in blogs suggests they were written by women, a majority of which had experienced eating disorders. Findings describe young people’s experiences of CAP inpatient care supporting mental‐health recovery in an interpretive explanation with one theme, ‘Don’t abandon me’, and three sub‐themes: ‘Listen to me’, ‘Believe in me’, and ‘Allow me to feel safe’. This study adds to the growing body of empirical work suggesting the importance of the concept of recovery in young people’s mental health. To support recovery, CAP inpatient care needs to focus on developing the content of care rather than minimizing the length of the stay. User experience should be at the heart of efforts aimed at improving services.
Hospital staff well‐being during the first wave of COVID‐19: Staff perspectives
Authors: Digby Robin , Winton‐Brown Toby , Finlayson Felicity , Dobson Hannah , Bucknall Tracey
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of working during the early stage of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the well‐being of staff at one 600‐bed acute hospital in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. This exploratory study is part of a larger mixed methods survey project, reporting the qualitative data from an on‐line survey of clinical staff working at one acute hospital between April 16th and May 13th, 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Responses to five free‐text questions were analysed using inductive content analysis. 321 medical, nursing, allied health and non‐clinical staff responded to the survey. Respondents reported anxiety, fear and uncertainty related to the pandemic, from the perspectives of work, home, family and community. They reported feeling confused by inconsistent messages received from government, hospital executive, managers and media. Seven themes were identified: (i) worrying about patient care, (ii) changed working conditions, (iii) working in the changed hospital environment, (iv) impact of the pandemic, (v) personal isolation and uncertainty, (vi) leadership and management and (vii) additional support needed for staff. Despite the pandemic being comparatively well‐controlled in Australia, all disciplines reported a high degree of anticipatory anxiety. Staff working in healthcare require both managerial and psychological support to minimise anxiety and promote well‐being and resilience in order to deal with the health crisis. Regular unambiguous communication directing the way forward is crucial.
Patient participation in forensic psychiatric care: Mental health professionals' perspective
Authors: Selvin Mikael , Almqvist Kjerstin , Kjellin Lars , Schröder Agneta
Published: October 2020

Patient participation is a central concept in modern health care and an important factor in theories/models such as person‐centred care, shared decision‐making, human rights approaches, and recovery‐oriented practice. Forensic psychiatric care involves the treatment of patients with serious mental illnesses who also have committed a crime, and there are known challenges for mental health staff to create a health‐promoting climate. The aim of the present study was to describe mental health professionals' perceptions of the concept of patient participation in forensic psychiatric care. Interviews were conducted with 19 professionals and were analysed with a phenomenographic approach. The findings are presented as three descriptive categories comprising five conceptions in an hierarchic order: 1. create prerequisites – to have good communication and to involve the patient, 2. adapt to forensic psychiatric care conditions – to take professional responsibility and to assess the patient’s current ability, and 3. progress – to encourage the patient to become more independent. The findings highlight the need for professionals to create prerequisites for patient participation through good communication and involving the patient, whilst adapting to forensic psychiatric care conditions by taking professional responsibility, assessing the patient’s ability, and encouraging the patient to become more independent without adding any risks to the care process. By creating such prerequisites adapted to the forensic psychiatric care, it is more likely that the patients will participate in their care and take more own responsibility for it, which also may be helpful in the patient recovery process.
Protectin DX promotes epithelial injury repair and inhibits fibroproliferation partly via ALX/PI3K signalling pathway
Authors: Yang Jing‐Xiang , Li Ming , Hu Xin , Lu Jia‐Chao , Wang Qian , Lu Shi‐Yue , Gao Fang , Jin Sheng‐Wei , Zheng Sheng‐Xing
Published: October 2020

Acute respiratory distress syndrome/acute lung injury (ARDS/ALI) is histologically characterized by extensive alveolar barrier disruption and excessive fibroproliferation responses. Protectin DX (PDX) displays anti‐inflammatory and potent inflammation pro‐resolving actions. We sought to investigate whether PDX attenuates LPS (lipopolysaccharide)‐induced lung injury via modulating epithelial cell injury repair, apoptosis and fibroblasts activation. In vivo, PDX was administered intraperitoneally (IP) with 200 ng/per mouse after intratracheal injection of LPS, which remarkedly stimulated proliferation of type II alveolar epithelial cells (AT II cells), reduced the apoptosis of AT II cells, which attenuated lung injury induced by LPS. Moreover, primary type II alveolar cells were isolated and cultured to assess the effects of PDX on wound repair, apoptosis, proliferation and transdifferentiation in vitro. We also investigated the effects of PDX on primary rat lung fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation. Our result suggests PDX promotes primary AT II cells wound closure by inducing the proliferation of AT II cells and reducing the apoptosis of AT II cells induced by LPS, and promotes AT II cells transdifferentiation. Furthermore, PDX inhibits transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) induced fibroproliferation, fibroblast collagen production and myofibroblast transformation. Furthermore, the effects of PDX on epithelial wound healing and proliferation, fibroblast proliferation and activation partly via the ALX/ PI3K signalling pathway. These data present identify a new mechanism of PDX which targets the airway epithelial cell and fibroproliferation are potential for treatment of ARDS/ALI.
Activation of LncRNA FOXD2‐AS1 by H3K27 acetylation regulates VEGF‐A expression by sponging miR‐205‐5p in recurrent pterygium
Authors: Gao Yali , Luo Xiaoling , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2020

LncRNA FOXD2‐AS1 is abnormally expressed in many diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms whereby FOXD2‐AS1 is involved in recurrent pterygium remain unknown. Here, qRT‐PCR was performed to quantify FOXD2‐AS1 expression, while CCK‐8, flow cytometer and neoplasm xenograft assays were used to investigate its function. Dual‐luciferase reporter, RIP and RNA pull‐down assays were conducted to address the relationship between FOXD2‐AS1, miR‐205‐5p and VEGF‐A, while ChIP assays were used to detect H3K27 acetylation at the FOXD2‐AS1 promoter. FOXD2‐AS1 expression was up‐regulated in recurrent pterygium tissues. Moreover, a high FOXD2‐AS1 expression was associated with advanced stages, increased microvessel density and shorter recurrent‐free survival. In addition, ROC analysis showed that FOXD2‐AS1 is a valid predictor of recurrent pterygium. Furthermore, we show that FOXD2‐AS1 induced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis in a cell line derived from recurrent pterygia (HPF‐R) at least partially through the regulation of the miR‐205‐VEGF pathway. In addition, the up‐regulation of FOXD2‐AS1 was attributed to the H3K27 acetylation at the promoter region. In conclusion, FOXD2‐AS1 is activated via its H3K27 acetylation and regulates VEGF‐A expression by sponging miR‐205‐5p in recurrent pterygium. Our results may provide a basis for the development of new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for recurrent pterygium.
Glucose effectiveness: Lessons from studies on insulin‐independent glucose clearance in mice
Authors: Ahrén Bo , Pacini Giovanni
Published: October 2020

Besides insulin‐mediated transport of glucose into the cells, an important role is also played by the non‐insulin‐mediated transport. This latter process is called glucose effectiveness (acronym SG), which is estimated by modeling of glucose and insulin data after an intravenous glucose administration, and accounts for ≈70% of glucose disposal. This review summarizes studies on SG, mainly in humans and rodents with focus on results achieved in model experiments in mice. In humans, SG is reduced in type 2 diabetes, in obesity, in liver cirrhosis and in some elderly populations. In model experiments in mice, SG is independent from glucose levels, but increases when insulin secretion is stimulated, such as after administration of the incretin hormones, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide. SG is reduced in insulin resistance induced by high‐fat feeding and by exogenous administration of glucagon. Glucose‐dependent (insulin‐independent) glucose disposal is therefore important for glucose elimination, and it is also well regulated. It might be of pathophysiological relevance for the development of type 2 diabetes, in particular during insulin resistance, and might also be a target for glucose‐reducing therapy. Measuring SG is essentially important when carrying out metabolic studies to understand glucose homeostasis.
Impact of daily glucose fluctuations on cardiovascular outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention for patients with stable coronary artery disease undergoing lipid‐lowering therapy
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Shinke Toshiro , Otake Hiromasa , Kawamori Hiroyuki , Toba Takayoshi , Kuroda Masaru , Hirota Yushi , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko , Ogawa Wataru , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: October 2020

Aims/Introduction

Glucose fluctuation (GF) is a residual risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). We investigated whether GF influenced clinical outcomes and progression of coronary stenosis in stable CAD patients.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective study, 101 consecutive lipid‐controlled stable CAD patients underwent percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled, and GF was expressed as the mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) obtained by continuous glucose monitoring before the procedure was evaluated. At 9 months after enrollment, culprit and non‐culprit (mild‐to‐moderate stenosis without ischemia) lesions were serially assessed by angiography. Cardiovascular events (CVE) consisting of cardiovascular death, non‐fatal myocardial infarction or ischemia‐driven revascularization during 2‐year follow up, rapid progression in non‐culprit lesions (defined as ≥10% luminal narrowing progression in lesions with stenosis ≥50%, ≥30% luminal narrowing progression in non‐culprit lesions with stenosis <50% or normal segment, or progression to total occlusion) were evaluated.

Results

CVE occurred in 25 patients, and MAGE was significantly higher in the CVE group (76.1 ± 24.8 mg/dL vs 59.3 ± 23.7 mg/dL; P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis showed that MAGE was an independent predictor of CVE (odds ratio 1.027, 95% confidence interval 1.008–1.047; P = 0.005). The optimal MAGE value to predict CVE was 70.7 mg/dL (area under the curve 0.687, 95% confidence interval 0.572–0.802; P = 0.005). Furthermore, MAGE was independently associated with rapid progression, and with the luminal narrowing progression in all non‐culprit lesions (r = 0.400, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Daily GF might influence future CVE in lipid‐controlled stable CAD patients.
Young people with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump therapy could fast safely during COVID–19 pandemic Ramadan: A telemonitoring experience in Bangladesh
Authors: Zabeen Bedowra , Ahmed Bulbul , Nahar Jebun
Published: October 2020

Our aim was to report our telemedicine experience with type 1 diabetes patients using insulin pumps who fasted for Ramadan 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The routine diabetes outpatient care in our Changing Diabetes in Children (CDiC) Pediatric Diabetes Center at the Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders hospital was closed, as there was a lockdown from 26 March in Bangladesh. The diabetes team in our center started telemedicine care for routine follow up of patients. Nine patients who wished to fast for Ramadan contacted our diabetes team over the phone. The mean age was 19.3 ± 5.0 years, and five (55.6%) were female. Most of the patients fasted >20 days. Hyperglycemia and mild hypoglycemia were common complications during fasting. There was no episode of severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, and none of the patients required admission. During the COVID‐19 crisis in Bangladesh, patients with type 1 diabetes using an insulin pump could fast safely for Ramadan with the support of the telemedicine service by the diabetes team.
Reactive granulomatous dermatitis as a histological pattern including manifestations of interstitial granulomatous dermatitis and palisaded neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis: a study of 52 patients
Authors: Rodríguez‐Garijo N. , Bielsa I. , Mascaró J.M. , Quer A. , Idoate M.A. , Paricio J.J. , Iranzo P. , España A.
Published: October 2020

Background

Confusion exists regarding interstitial granulomatous dermatitis (IGD) and palisaded neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis (PNGD).

Objective

To determine whether IGD and PNGD are two different entities, or whether they must be considered as two subtypes of the same reactive pattern, and thus whether the unification of the nomenclature is necessary.

Methods

Observational retrospective multicentre study of patients with IGD and PNGD evaluated between 1999 and 2019 and review of their clinical and histological features.

Results

We identified 52 patients (38 women and 14 men). Clinical and histological findings of IGD were observed in 88.4% of cases. The most common cutaneous lesions were plaques/macules (IGD) or annular plaques and papules/nodules (PNGD), located mostly on the limbs and trunk. The rope sign was developed in two patients with IGD that associated autoimmune disorders. Similar associated comorbidities (75%) were found in both entities, mainly autoimmune diseases (53.8%). In IGD, the infiltrate was predominantly lympho‐histiocytic. Neutrophilic infiltrates, karyorrhexis and skin lesions with limited clinical course were mainly associated with PNGD biopsies. In biopsies with a limited recurrent course, a predominant lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate was found. Collagen degeneration was present in 75.9% of cases. The floating sign was observed only in IGD type patients (63%). Overlapping histological findings were found in one fourth of cases, especially between IGD and interstitial granuloma annulare. Interface dermatitis, apparently unrelated to drug intake, was observed in 4 cases of IGD.

Conclusion

We support the term reactive granulomatous dermatitis to unify both the clinical and histological findings of IGD and PNGD, and the overlapping between IGD and interstitial granuloma annulare. According to this, a spectrum of histological changes will be found depending on the clinical course of the skin lesions.
Patients with bullous pemphigoid and comorbid psoriasis present with less blisters and lower serum levels of anti‐BP180 autoantibodies
Authors: Ständer S. , Schmidt E. , Zillikens D. , Thaçi D. , Ludwig R.J. , Kridin K.
Published: October 2020

Background

Although the association of bullous pemphigoid (BP) and psoriasis is well‐established, the clinical and immunological features of patients with coexisting BP and psoriasis are yet to be investigated.

Objective

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of psoriasis amongst patients with BP and to elucidate the clinical and immunological characteristics of BP patients with comorbid psoriasis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study including all consecutive patients diagnosed with BP throughout the years 2009–2019 in a tertiary referral centre.

Results

The study encompassed 273 patients with BP, of whom 11 (4.0%; 95% CI, 2.3–7.1%) had comorbid psoriasis. The onset of psoriasis preceded that of BP in 81.8% of patients by a median (range) latency of 26.5 (5.0–34.0) years. Compared to BP patients without psoriasis, those with BP and comorbid psoriasis were significantly younger at the onset of BP [71.8 (9.3) vs. 79.4 (9.8) years; P = 0.023], had a milder erosive phenotype [erosion/blister BPDAI mean (SD)score; 5 (4.1) vs. 22.3 (15.2); P = 0.025], lower levels of anti‐BP180 NC16A serum autoantibodies [236.6 (266.3) vs. 556.2 (1323.6) U/mL; P = 0.008] and a higher prevalence of isolated linear C3 deposits (36.4% vs. 14.1%; P = 0.043) and a lower prevalence of linear immunoglobulin G deposits (36.4% vs. 68.7%; P = 0.025) along the dermal–epidermal junction by direct immunofluorescence microscopy.

Conclusions

Patients with BP and comorbid psoriasis present at a younger age with milder erosive phenotype and lower levels of pathogenic autoantibodies.
Evaluation of structural coloration of experimental flowable resin composites
Authors: Arai Yuiko , Kurokawa Hiroyasu , Takamizawa Toshiki , Tsujimoto Akimasa , Saegusa Makoto , Yokoyama Munenori , Miyazaki Masashi
Published: October 2020

Objective

To examine the effect of filler contentTo examine the effect of filler content on structural coloration of experimental flowable resin composites.

Overview

Experimental composites containing spherical fillers and different filler contents (30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 wt%), a structural colored resin composite (Omnichroma), and a nanohybrid flowable resin composite (Gracefil LoFlo) were used. The optical characteristics of the specimens were measured on standard black and white backgrounds using a spectrophotometer under CIE D65 illuminant and the L*a*b* values were determined. The color matching abilities to artificial teeth were evaluated using the ΔE*ab and ΔE00 color difference formulas. One‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used. The spectral reflectance of experimental composites showed different trends in different backgrounds, plate thickness, and filler contents. In particular, higher spectral reflectance was observed on the white background at wavelengths ranging from 450 to 700 nm in both 1.5 and 3.0 mm plates when compared to the black background. The percent reflectivity tended to decrease with a decrease of the filler contents. The color matching abilities of the experimental composites improved with the increase in the filler contents.

Conclusions

Structural coloration of the flowable resin composites were affected by the filler contents.

Clinical significance

Clinical Significance: Higher filler contents might be needed to achieve the optimal color properties of structural colored flowable resin composites, thereby improving the restoration esthetics.
Studies on the quality and moisture distribution of kiwifruit dried by freeze drying combined with microwave vacuum drying
Authors: Huang Lue‐Lue , Lian Miao‐Miao , Duan Xu , Li Bin , Yang Shao‐Zhuang
Published: October 2020

The drying quality of kiwifruit dried by a combination of freeze drying and microwave vacuum drying (FD‐MVD) in terms of drying time, appearance quality and microstructure. The results showed that the quality of FD‐MVD products was highest with FD 12 h because the lowest volume density and close to the color of single FD samples. The optimal microwave power for the MVD process was found to be 0.30 W/g. The microstructure of FD 8 h samples was maintained very well due to the whole cell structure between the center and the edge of the kiwifruit. This is because that the moisture content at the edges and centers was identical in the FD‐MVD samples with FD 8 h. However, in FD‐MVD samples with FD 10 h and FD 12 h, the moisture content at the center was significantly higher than at the outer ring, which resulted in obvious shrinking and folding of cell structure. Therefore, FD 12 h was considered the optimal moisture conversion point because it resulted in a good appearance quality. FD 8 h was the optimal moisture transfer point when the microstructure, drying time and drying energy were considered jointly.

Practical Applications

Kiwifruit is rich in nutrients and is planted in over 80 countries worldwide. FD method used to dry kiwifruit consumes large amounts of energy although results in good quality products. FD‐MVD dried kiwifruit requires less energy to produce and its quality is similar to that of kiwifruit subjected to FD only. This study describes a new, low energy method of kiwifruit drying that has possible implications for large‐scale commercial production. In addition, effect of different cell structure of center and edge in kiwifruit on microstructure afford a new quality judgment method during drying for similar materials.
Anthropometric and blood pressure changes in patients with or without nutritional counselling during cardiac rehabilitation: a retrospective study
Authors: Valentino G. , Galgani J. E. , Álamos M. , Orellana L. , Adasme M. , Berríos A. , Acevedo M.
Published: October 2020

Background

Whether a patient's outcomes are better when receiving nutritional counselling during cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has been scarcely described. We compared changes in weight, waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure (BP) in patients attending CR with and without nutritional counselling.

Methods

A retrospective analytical study was conducted in which two groups of patients who completed a phase II CR (36 sessions) were compared: CONTROL [n = 144, mean (SD) age = 59 (12) years, 17% females], comprising patients without nutritional counselling (attended between 2003 and 2009), and NUT [n = 128, mean (SD) age = 60 (13) years, 27% females], comprising patients with dietitian‐delivered nutritional counselling (attended between 2010 and 2019). Repeated‐measures analysis of variance was used to compare changes in weight, WC, and BP during CR between groups. Logistic regression models determined the probability of reducing weight and systolic BP (SBP).

Results

NUT group decreased weight [−1.3 (3.1) kg; P < 0.0001] and WC [−3.0 (3.8) cm; P < 0.0001] to a greater extent than CONTROL [weight: −0.4 (3.1) kg; P = 0.51; WC: −1.4 (4.5) cm; P = 0.02]. In CONTROL, 7% reduced ≥ 5% weight and 31% reduced ≥ 10 mmHg SBP, whereas, in the NUT group, 18% reduced ≥ 5% weight and 47% reduced ≥ 10 mmHg SBP. Patients in NUT (versus CONTROL) were more likely to lose ≥ 5% of weight (odds ratio = 4.27, 95% confidence interval = 1.69–10.80; P < 0.01) and reduce SBP ≥ 10 mmHg (odds ratio = 3.15, 95% confidence interval = 1.58–6.27; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Patients who received nutritional counselling during CR improved anthropometric measures and were more likely to lose weight and reduce SBP than patients without nutritional counselling.
Iterative thermodynamic modelling—Part 2: Tracing equilibrium relationships between minerals in metamorphic rocks
Authors: Lanari Pierre , Hermann Jörg
Published: October 2020

Understanding equilibrium relationships between minerals is a fundamental goal of metamorphic petrology, especially for the quantification of metamorphic conditions recorded by crustal rocks. Information on pressure (P) and temperature (T) can be derived from mineral compositions based on the a priori assumption that frozen‐in assemblages reflect chemical equilibrium at the time of formation. While the stable coexistence of minerals is commonly assessed from a combination of microstructural criteria and interpretation of phase diagrams, there is no robust modelling strategy available so far for the unambiguous recognition of minerals that grew at different conditions. This study uses iterative thermodynamic models and the computer program Bingo‐Antidote to propose a general strategy for assessing the stable coexistence of minerals and therefore for tracing multiple partial equilibrium relationships preserved in metapelites to reconstruct their P–T evolutions. First the principles of this approach are elaborated in a theoretical example. Application to a metapelite from the Western Central Alps reveals a detailed, clockwise P–T path with at least four different equilibration stages including a poorly defined peak pressure at 1–1.1 GPa, ~560°C, followed by peak temperatures of ~620°C at 0.9 GPa and a late amphibolite stage at ~580°C, 0.65 GPa. The investigation of the natural metapelite via iterative thermodynamic models (ITM) allows the observed mineral formation sequence to be combined with a higher accuracy with variable mineral compositions and results in a detailed P–T path. The metastable perseverance of one or more mineral phases can be statistically inferred via ITM. In the investigated metapelite, only ~50 vol.% of the rock volume equilibrated at peak temperature conditions of 620°C. In addition, ITM enables a more detailed investigation of partial re‐equilibration by diffusion during subsequent metamorphic stages, showing that prograde garnet growth could have been modified during subsequent 10 Ma of amphibolite facies metamorphism in the Central Alps.
Metamorphic evolution of the Great Slave Lake shear zone
Authors: Dyck Brendan , Goddard Rellie M. , Wallis David , Hansen Lars N. , Martel Edith
Published: October 2020

The Palaeoproterozoic Great Slave Lake shear zone (GSLsz) is a crustal‐scale strike‐slip structure, with a total length of >1,000 km and a width of ~25 km, that separates the Archean Rae and Slave cratons. The range of metamorphic rocks now exposed at the surface encompasses granulite facies mylonite through to lower‐greenschist facies ultramylonite and cataclasite, providing a potential type example of fault‐zone structure in the middle and lower crust. However, the metamorphic evolution of the units remains poorly quantified, hindering detailed structural and tectonic interpretations. Here, we use phase equilibria modelling and thermobarometry to determine the metamorphic conditions recorded by pelitic, mafic and felsic GSLsz mylonites. Samples from the entire range of granulite–greenschist facies units preserve evidence for nested clockwise pressure–temperature paths that are consistent with a single orogenic cycle. Our findings indicate that the northern Rae margin underwent pervasive crustal thickening with peak pressures in metasedimentary rocks reaching ~1.1 GPa. The crustal thermal gradient at the onset of thickening was ~650°C/GPa, whereas the final stages of equilibrium recorded by fine‐grained matrix minerals in all samples collectively define a metamorphic field gradient of ~1,000°C/GPa. Deformation microstructures are consistent with the main phase of dextral shear having been synchronous with or following peak metamorphism. The history of metamorphism and exhumation of the GSLsz is consistent with the Sibson–Scholz model for shear zones, with a narrowing of the deforming zone and the progressive overprinting of higher‐grade assemblages during exhumation through shallower crustal levels.
Racialization of peer‐to‐peer transactions: Inequality and barriers to legitimacy
Authors: Shepherd Steven , Matherly Ted
Published: October 2020

Racial disparities exist in how different peer‐to‐peer (P2P) business activities are treated. Adapting from institutional theory, whiteness theory, and stereotyping research, we find across a series of experiments that P2P activities are rated more negatively and lower in normative legitimacy when their actors are perceived to be Black as opposed to White. Local acceptance and regulative legitimacy increased normative legitimacy ratings for P2P activities in a Black community, but did not erase the normative legitimacy gap. Moreover, we find that popular terms for P2P businesses (“sharing economy” and “side hustle”) have racial associations, influencing perceptions of normative legitimacy. However, we also show that this may potentially be altered by the legitimating action (an advertising campaign) of a major P2P company employing these terms. Our results suggest that policymakers and programs for improving entrepreneurial achievement need to explicitly consider these racial associations and perceived differences in legitimacy.
Saline in Dermatology: A literature review
Authors: El‐Amawy Heba Saed , Sarsik Sameh Magdy
Published: October 2020

Background

Saline, with its different concentrations, is the most used crystalloid solution in medicine. In dermatology, no large studies investigated the benefits of saline. The aim of this article is to review the different possible uses of saline in dermatology, in order to give final recommendations based on the literature review and our experience.

Methods

We performed a literature search based on PubMed, EMBASE, WHO Global Health Library, Virtual Health Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Research gate. using the keywords: saline, physiological, hypertonic, isotonic, hypotonic, salt solution, sodium chloride, 0.9% NaCl, solvent, drug delivery, injection mixtures, diluent, sclerosant, intravenous, intralesional, injection, topical, soaks, fomentation, inhalation, alopecia, psoriasis, scars, atopic dermatitis, eczema, bromoderma, iododerma, lipodystrophy, in various combinations with the Boolean operators AND, OR and NOT. We also hand‐searched textbooks.

Results

Saline was used as a diluent with intralesional injection of steroids to minimize the risk of steroid‐induced atrophy, being safe and free from preservatives that may precipitate steroids at site of injection and maximize their side effects. Saline has also been used after surgery, when atrophic scars take place or anticipated, and through injection in leishmaniasis, granuloma annulare, atrophic acne scars before using other expensive and less tolerated treatment options.

Conclusions

The saline represents a helpful option as a diluent with intralesional injection of steroids in various dermatologic therapeutic indications. Moreover, the use of saline in this setting could help to minimize the risk of steroid‐induced atrophy. We encourage the use of saline after surgery, when atrophic scars take place or anticipated. Also, we encourage a trial of saline injection in leishmaniasis, granuloma annulare, atrophic acne scars before using other expensive and less tolerated treatment options.
Using RAD‐seq to develop sex‐linked markers in a haplodiplontic alga
Authors: Krueger‐Hadfield Stacy A. , Flanagan Ben A. , Godfroy Olivier , Hill‐Spanik Kristina M. , Nice Chris C. , Murren Courtney J. , Strand Allan E. , Sotka Erik E.
Published: October 2020

For many taxa, including isomorphic haplodiplontic macroalgae, determining sex and ploidy is challenging, thereby limiting the scope of some population demographic and genetic studies. Here, we used double‐digest restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD‐seq) to identify sex‐linked molecular markers in the widespread red alga Agarophyton vermiculophyllum. In the ddRAD‐seq library, we included 10 female gametophytes, 10 male gametophytes, and 16 tetrasporophytes from one native and one non‐native site (N = 40 gametophytes and N = 32 tetrasporophytes total). We identified seven putatively female‐linked and 19 putatively male‐linked sequences. Four female‐ and eight male‐linked markers amplified in all three life cycle stages. Using one female‐ and one male‐linked marker that were sex‐specific, we developed a duplex PCR and tested the efficacy of this assay on a subset of thalli sampled at two sites in the non‐native range. We confirmed ploidy based on the visual observation of reproductive structures and previous microsatellite genotyping at 10 polymorphic loci. For 32 vegetative thalli, we were able to assign sex and confirm ploidy in these previously genotyped thalli. These markers will be integral to ongoing studies of A. vermiculophyllum invasion. We discuss the utility of RAD‐seq over other approaches previously used, such as RAPDs (random amplified polymorphic DNA), for future work designing sex‐linked markers in other haplodiplontic macroalgae for which genomes are lacking.
Stakeholder perspectives: Communication, care coordination, and transitions in care for children with medical complexity
Authors: Williams Lori J. , Waller Katherine , Chenoweth Rachel P. , Ersig Anne L.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to obtain feedback on communication, care coordination, and transitions in care for hospitalized children with medical complexity (CMC).

Design and Methods

This descriptive, mixed‐methods study used online surveys with forced‐choice and open‐ended questions to obtain stakeholder feedback. Stakeholders included parents, healthcare providers, and nurses. Participants over 18 years of age were recruited from a Midwest children's hospital inpatient unit dedicated to care of CMC. Quantitative data were analyzed using t‐tests and one‐way analysis of variance. Qualitative description was used to analyze responses to open‐ended questions.

Results

Parents' ratings of communication, care coordination, and transitions in care were generally high. Transitions from other facilities to the emergency department and unit received lower ratings. Providers and nurses gave high ratings to overall care, communication among providers and nurses on the patient unit, and experiences with discharge; however, between unit communication and unit‐based coordination received lower ratings. Providers and nurses had higher ratings for discharge preparation than parents (p ≤ .001). Three themes were identified in responses to the open‐ended questions: establishing balanced and collaborative relationships between the care team and families, taking a proactive approach to care coordination, and the importance of an inclusive, interdisciplinary, and centralized approach to care coordination and communication.

Practice Implications

Collaboration among all stakeholders is needed to achieve coordinated care, inclusive communication, and transitions with positive outcomes during hospitalization. Parents identified a need for consistent communication from care teams, with the primary inpatient team taking a lead role. Including parents in care coordination and transitions in care is key, as they are the experts in their children's health and well‐being.
Reference values for 2‐dimensional and M‐mode echocardiography in Friesian and Warmblood horses
Authors: Vernemmen Ingrid , Vera Lisse , Van Steenkiste Glenn , van Loon Gunther , Decloedt Annelies
Published: October 2020

Background

Echocardiographic reference intervals for Friesian horses are poorly described.

Objectives

To obtain reference intervals for echocardiographic measurements in Friesians and compare these with Warmbloods.

Animals

One hundred healthy adult Friesians and 100 healthy adult Warmblood horses.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study. Two‐dimensional and M‐mode echocardiographic images were obtained. Echocardiographic measurements, including size, area, and volumetric measurements of left atrium, left and right ventricle, aorta, and pulmonary artery, were performed. Measurements were compared between the 2 breeds using an independent samplesttest with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Results

Reference ranges for standard echocardiographic measurements in Friesians were obtained. Several left ventricular measurements were significantly smaller in Friesians compared to Warmbloods, such as the left ventricular end‐diastolic volume using the 4‐chamber modified Simpsons' method (99.85% confidence interval for the difference [CI] = −245 to −63). Also the right ventricular end‐diastolic and peak‐systolic internal diameter were smaller in Friesians (99.85%CI= −1.33 to −0.6 and 99.85%CI= −1.54 to −0.76, respectively). Fractional shortening (99.85%CI= 0.61‐6) and ejection fraction (99.85%CI= 0.21‐4.6) were significantly larger. No structural effects of systemic hypertension, such as concentric hypertrophy, were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Our study provides reference intervals for echocardiographic measurements in Friesians useful in a clinical setting. In general, the left ventricular dimensions in Friesians were significantly smaller compared to Warmbloods, emphasizing the need for breed‐specific reference intervals.
Obstructive fibrinous tracheal pseudomembrane in a cat
Authors: Nivy Ran , Brenner Ori , Shub Vered , Bruchim Yaron
Published: October 2020

Tracheal intubation (TI) is a common procedure that rarely entails life‐threatening complications. A 1.5‐year‐old female spayed cat presented with acute signs of respiratory distress 5 weeks after undergoing TI. Radiographs revealed a marked, segmental, tracheal narrowing. A hard, 5‐cm‐long, white‐yellowish tissue was identified and removed from the trachea, with subsequent resolution of clinical signs and radiographic changes. Microscopically, the tissue consisted of fibrin and lytic neutrophils, interspaced with optically empty cavities and a few remains of talcum powder and hair shafts. Consequently, a diagnosis of obstructive fibrinous tracheal pseudomembrane (OFTP) was made. A rare complication of TI in humans, OFTP should also be suspected in cats with respiratory distress, a history of TI and radiographic evidence of tracheal narrowing. Based on cases from other species and the cat described herein, the condition can be easily resolved with OFTP removal.
Antimicrobial agent use in small animals what are the prescribing practices, use of PK‐PD principles, and extralabel use in the United States?
Authors: Papich Mark G.
Published: October 2020

In this review, the availability and deficiencies of current antimicrobial agents for companion animals in the United States are described. Although several active agents are FDA‐approved for small animals, there are many unmet needs. These needs are greatest for cats, for the treatment of antibiotic drug‐resistant infections, and to treat new or emerging pathogens that were not considered on older labels. The older agents approved before 1997 are often outdated, unavailable, or have inaccurate labeling. Subsequently, veterinarians treat dogs and cats with many unapproved antimicrobial agents that are licensed for human use. Although these drugs may be effective, there are also concerns that this use can produce drug‐resistant bacteria that may be a public health risk. Although this concern is real, there is also evidence that any antimicrobial use in small animals can produce resistant fecal bacteria and stewardship principles should aim at reducing any unnecessary antibiotic use. This could be accomplished by avoiding some of the older, ineffective, or outdated agents described in this paper. There is a need for incentives to approve new agents that will be more appropriate for treating infections in companion animals without increasing the risk of drug‐resistant bacteria that could potentially be transferred to humans and the environment and create a public health risk.
HDL cholesterol protects from liver injury in mice with intestinal specific LXRα activation
Authors: Pierantonelli Irene , Lioci Gessica , Gurrado Fabio , Giordano Debora M. , Rychlicki Chiara , Bocca Claudia , Trozzi Luciano , Novo Erica , Panera Nadia , De Stefanis Cristiano , D’Oria Valentina , Marzioni Marco , Maroni Luca , Parola Maurizio , Alisi Anna , Svegliati‐Baroni Gianluca
Published: October 2020

Background and aims

Liver X receptors (LXRs) exert anti‐inflammatory effects even though their hepatic activation is associated with hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic steatosis. Selective induction of LXRs in the gut might provide protective signal(s) in the aberrant wound healing response that induces fibrosis during chronic liver injury, without hypertriglyceridemic and steatogenic effects.

Methods

Mice with intestinal constitutive LXRα activation (iVP16‐LXRα) were exposed to intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 8 weeks, and in vitro cell models were used to evaluate the beneficial effect of high‐density lipoproteins (HDL).

Results

After CCl4 treatment, the iVP16‐LXRα phenotype showed reduced M1 macrophage infiltration, increased expression M2 macrophage markers, and lower expression of hepatic pro‐inflammatory genes. This anti‐inflammatory effect in the liver was also associated with decreased expression of hepatic oxidative stress genes and reduced expression of fibrosis markers. iVP16‐LXRα exhibited increased reverse cholesterol transport in the gut by ABCA1 expression and consequent enhancement of the levels of circulating HDL and their receptor SRB1 in the liver. No hepatic steatosis development was observed in iVP16‐LXRα. In vitro, HDL induced a shift from M1 to M2 phenotype of LPS‐stimulated Kupffer cells, decreased TNFα‐induced oxidative stress in hepatocytes and reduced NF‐kB activity in both cells. SRB1 silencing reduced TNFα gene expression in LPS‐stimulated KCs, and NOX‐1 and IL‐6 in HepG2.

Conclusions

Intestinal activation of LXRα modulates hepatic response to injury by increasing circulating HDL levels and SRB1 expression in the liver, thus suggesting this circuit as potential actionable pathway for therapy.