bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical defenses shift with the seasonal vertical migration of a Panamanian poison frog
Authors: Basham Edmund W. , Saporito Ralph A. , González‐Pinzón Macario , Romero‐Marcucci Angel , Scheffers Brett R.
Published: September 2020

Dendrobatid poison frogs sequester lipophilic alkaloids from their arthropod prey to use as a form of chemical defense. Some dendrobatid frogs seasonally migrate between the leaf litter of the forest floor in the dry season to the canopy in the wet season, which may yield differences in prey (arthropods) and therefore alkaloid availability over space and time. Here, we document a seasonal vertical migration of Andinobates fulguritus (the yellow‐bellied poison frog) from ground to canopy between dry and wet seasons. We observed turnover in alkaloid composition between seasons and found that dry season frogs contained a lower relative quantity of alkaloids; however, there was no change in alkaloid richness between seasons. The 77 alkaloids of 13 structural classes identified in this population appear to be derived mostly from mites and ants, though the two most common alkaloids were mite derived. Our observed shifts in defensive profiles are consistent with well‐documented turnover in mite and ant communities between seasons and vertical strata. As climate change is expected to lengthen and strengthen dry seasons in many tropical regions, our results suggest that arboreal poison frogs forced to the ground for longer periods of time may see a shift in the abundance of alkaloids, possibly decreasing their defensive potential. This study provides further predictions for the wide‐reaching effects of climate change, even as nuanced as charismatic poison frogs losing their poisons.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Functional diversity and redundancy of tropical forest mammals over time
Authors: Gorczynski Daniel , Beaudrot Lydia
Published: September 2020

Globally, tropical rain forests comprise some of the most diverse and functionally rich ecosystems but are increasingly degraded by human impacts. Protected areas have been shown to conserve species diversity, but their effectiveness at maintaining functional diversity over time is less well known, despite the fact that functional diversity likely reveals more ecological information than taxonomic diversity. By extension, the degree to which species loss decreases functional diversity within protected areas is also unknown; functional redundancy may buffer communities from loss of functional diversity from some local extinctions. Using eight years of camera trap data, we quantified annual functional dispersion of the large mammal community in the Volcán Barva region of Costa Rica and tested for changes in functional dispersion over time in response to environmental and anthropogenic predictors. We quantified functional redundancy based on simulated declines in functional dispersion with species loss. Observed functional dispersion did not change significantly over time and was not associated with measured environmental or anthropogenic predictors. Quantitative modeling of observed functional traits over time did not identify significant changes. We did however find qualitative trends in relative trait proportions, which could be indicative of functional change in the future. We found high functional redundancy, with average simulated functional dispersion declining significantly only after 9 out of 21 large mammal species were lost from the community. We cautiously suggest that protected tropical rain forests can conserve functional diversity over the course of a decade even in heavily fragmented landscapes.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Getting Fewer “Likes” Than Others on Social Media Elicits Emotional Distress Among Victimized Adolescents
Authors: Lee Hae Yeon , Jamieson Jeremy P. , Reis Harry T. , Beevers Christopher G. , Josephs Robert A. , Mullarkey Michael C. , O’Brien Joseph M. , Yeager David S.
Published: September 2020

Three studies examined the effects of receiving fewer signs of positive feedback than others on social media. In Study 1, adolescents (N = 613, Mage = 14.3 years) who were randomly assigned to receive few (vs. many) likes during a standardized social media interaction felt more strongly rejected, and reported more negative affect and more negative thoughts about themselves. In Study 2 (N = 145), negative responses to receiving fewer likes were associated with greater depressive symptoms reported day‐to‐day and at the end of the school year. Study 3 (N = 579) replicated Study 1’s main effect of receiving fewer likes and showed that adolescents who already experienced peer victimization at school were the most vulnerable. The findings raise the possibility that technology which makes it easier for adolescents to compare their social status online—even when there is no chance to share explicitly negative comments—could be a risk factor that accelerates the onset of internalizing symptoms among vulnerable youth.
Can a Domain‐General Spatial Intervention Facilitate Children’s Science Learning? A Lesson From Astronomy
Authors: Bower Corinne A. , Liben Lynn S.
Published: September 2020

Correlational studies link spatial‐test scores and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics achievement. Here we asked whether children’s understanding of astronomical phenomena would benefit from a prior intervention targeting a core component of children’s projective spatial concepts—understanding that viewers’ visual experiences are affected by vantage point. Children (8–9 years; N = 66) received outdoor and indoor experiences that did (Experimental) or did not (Control) focus on how scene appearance is affected by viewers' positions and movements. All then received an astronomy lesson about celestial motions (e.g., Sun apparent motion). Experimental‐group children scored higher on immediate and 1‐week perspective‐taking tests and explained celestial phenomena more accurately than did control‐group children. Data demonstrate that general spatial training—divorced from specific science content—can aid children’s subsequent learning of scientific phenomena.
Robotic lateral pelvic lymph node dissection after chemoradiation for rectal cancer: a Western perspective
Authors: Peacock O. , Limvorapitak T. , Bednarski B. K. , Kaur H. , Taggart M. W. , Dasari A. , Holliday E. B. , Minsky B. D. , You Y. N. , Chang G. J.
Published: September 2020

Aim

There are limited outcome data for lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LPLND) following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT), particularly in the West. Our aim was to evaluate the short‐term perioperative and oncological outcomes of robotic LPLND at a single cancer centre.

Method

A retrospective analysis of a prospective database of consecutive patients undergoing robotic LPLND for rectal cancer between November 2012 and February 2020 was performed. The main outcomes were short‐term perioperative and oncological outcomes. Major morbidity was defined as Clavien–Dindo grade 3 or above.

Results

Forty patients underwent robotic LPLND during the study period. The mean age was 54 years (SD ± 15 years) and 13 (31.0%) were female. The median body mass index was 28.6 kg/m2 (IQR 25.5–32.6 kg/m2). Neoadjuvant CRT was performed in all patients. Resection of the primary rectal cancer and concurrent LPLND occurred in 36 (90.0%) patients, whilst the remaining 4 (10.0%) patients had subsequent LPLND after prior rectal resection. The median operating time was 420 min (IQR 313–540 min), estimated blood loss was 150 ml (IQR 55–200 ml) and length of hospital stay was 4 days (IQR 3–6 days). The major morbidity rate was 10.0% (n = 4). The median lymph node harvest from the LPLND was 6 (IQR 3–9) and 13 (32.5%) patients had one or more positive LPLNs. The median follow‐up was 16 months (IQR 5–33 months), with 1 (2.5%) local central recurrence and 7 (17.5%) patients developing distant disease, resulting in 3 (7.5%) deaths.

Conclusion

Robotic LPLND for rectal cancer can be performed in Western patients to completely resect extra‐mesorectal LPLNs and is associated with acceptable perioperative morbidity.
How far have we come? A review of MPA network performance indicators in reaching qualitative elements of Aichi Target 11
Authors: Meehan Mairi C. , Ban Natalie C. , Devillers Rodolphe , Singh Gerald G. , Claudet Joachim
Published: September 2020

Effective networks of marine protected areas (MPAs) are explicitly recognized and called for in international biodiversity conservation strategies such as the Aichi Targets. While various indicators have been proposed to assess effectiveness of individual MPAs, no comprehensive set of indicators exists for MPA networks, particularly for Aichi Target 11. The qualitative elements of this target recognize the value of social, economic, governance, and ecological factors in achieving effective biodiversity conservation. Here, we used a systematic literature review to identify indicators of MPA network effectiveness. We reviewed 64 publications, identifying 48 indicators that could be aligned with the qualitative elements. Results showed that assessments of MPA network effectiveness predominantly focused on effective management while neglecting equitable management and integration into the wider land and seascape. Indicators tended to focus on ecological characteristics, overlooking social, economic, and governance dimensions. Key challenges in addressing these gaps include identifying conflicting priorities and objectives in adjacent marine and land areas that interfere with cooperation and knowledge sharing, and ensuring diverse areas with distinct social and ecological contexts are considered. This study provides the first review of indicators for assessing MPA networks and adds to the literature assessing whether current and future targets can be met.
Clinical significance of esophagogastroduodenoscopy in patients with esophageal motility disorders
Authors: Matsubara Masaki , Manabe Noriaki , Ayaki Maki , Nakamura Jun , Murao Takahisa , Fujita Minoru , Kuinose Masahiko , Yamatsuji Tomoki , Naomoto Yoshio , Haruma Ken
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The first aim of this study was to elucidate the detection rate of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in patients complaining of dysphagia with esophageal motility disorders; the second was to clarify the useful parameters of EGD associated with esophageal motility disorders.

Methods

Participants included 380 patients who underwent EGD before high‐resolution manometry (HRM) for dysphagia. EGD findings were investigated according to the following five parameters: resistance when passing through the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), residue in the esophageal lumen, esophageal dilation, and spastic and nonocclusive contractions. HRM diagnoses were based on the Chicago classification (v3.0).

Results

The percentage of abnormal EGD findings was 64.4% among patients with esophageal motility disorders, and the results differed for each esophageal motility disorder. The rate of abnormal EGD for both EGJ outflow obstruction and major disorders of peristalsis was significantly higher than that for manometrically normal subjects. On multivariate analysis, resistance when passing through EGJ, residue in the esophageal lumen, spastic and nonocclusive contraction were significantly associated with esophageal motility disorders. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of these parameters for detection of esophageal motility disorders were 75.1%, 86.6%, 84.8% and 77.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and major disorders of peristalsis can be screened with EGD. Among several endoscopic parameters, resistance when passing through EGJ, residue in the esophageal lumen, spastic and nonocclusive contraction are considered significantly useful indicators.
How culture may nurture institutional trust: Insights from Bangladesh and Nepal
Authors: Jamil Ishtiaq , Baniamin Hasan Muhammad
Published: September 2020

Motivation

Most studies of the normative roots of political trust argue that they stem from policy performance rather than from cultural orientation. That sits at odds with the observation that institutional trust—that is, citizens’ confidence in public agencies—is high in Bangladesh and Nepal despite poor policy performance.

Purpose

The article assesses the influence of policy performance and cultural orientation of citizens in Bangladesh and Nepal on institutional trust.

Approach and Methods

The article draws on country representative surveys (Governance and Trust Survey 2) in Bangladesh and Nepal carried out in 2014–15. It identifies cultural preferences and specifically authoritarian cultural orientation (ACO)—characterized by deference to authority, unquestioning obedience, and reliance on authorities—and compares this to institutional trust.

Findings

High authoritarian cultural orientation (ACO) can lead citizens to trust public institutions. People’s submissiveness to the country’s authorities can obstruct critical thinking and even create positive impressions of the authorities, which in turn generates institutional trust. Institutions that are more visible and exert more authority may attract greater trust among citizens who exhibit ACO.

Policy Implications

When assessing citizens’ perceptions of policy performance, their cultural orientations must be considered. Trust in public agencies cannot be treated as proxy for their policy performance.
Whole‐body muscle magnetic resonance imaging in patients with muscle symptoms: incidental findings and outcomes
Authors: Claeys K. G. , Goosens V.
Published: September 2020

Background and purpose

Whole‐body muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become widely used for diagnostic workup in patients with muscle diseases. The prevalence of incidental findings in diagnostic whole‐body muscle MRI is unknown. Here, the prevalence and outcomes of incidentalomas in whole‐body muscle MRI in a large cohort of patients with muscle symptoms were studied.

Methods

Two hundred and six patients who consulted at our neuromuscular clinic with muscle weakness and/or myalgia and/or increased serum creatine kinase and in whom a whole‐body muscle MRI was performed between January 2016 and March 2020 were included.

Results

Whole‐body muscle MRI revealed at least one incidentaloma in 132 patients (64.1%), with mean age at MRI examination 50.4 years (19–74 years). Most of the incidental findings were benign. However, diagnostic examinations were indicated in 16.3% of the incidentalomas, treatment was needed in 4.7% and, in retrospect, symptoms related to the incidental findings were identified in 14.3%. Three malignant (glioblastoma multiforme, renal cell carcinoma and hepato‐splenomegaly related to a lymphoma) and one precancerous (low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm) incidental findings were identified. In one patient an abdominal aortic aneurysm was detected and in another a large cerebral arteriovenous malformation. In 1.2% of the incidentalomas, i.e. periventricular white matter lesions (LAMA2 mutations) and fibrous dysplasia (ANO5 mutations), an indirect link with the muscle disease could be established.

Conclusions

It is concluded that incidental findings in diagnostic whole‐body muscle MRI in patients with muscle symptoms occur frequently. Most of them are benign, but in some timely detecting the incidentaloma leads to early treatment and can thus impact prognosis.
The unexploited potential of listening to deep‐sea fish
Authors: Bolgan Marta , Parmentier Eric
Published: September 2020

Covering more than 65% of the Earth surface, the deep sea (200–11,000 m depth) is the largest biotope on Earth, yet it remains largely unexplored. The biology of its communities is still poorly understood, and many species are still to be discovered. Despite this, deep‐sea fish are already threatened by our exploitation and their conservation is hampered by a severe scarcity of data. Studies focusing on fish acoustic communication are receiving growing attention in coastal areas as they provide useful information to different fields, ranging from behaviour, ecology, wild population monitoring, biodiversity assessment, fisheries and aquaculture management. Modern non‐invasive techniques such as passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) can provide high‐resolution, long‐term and large spatial scale information on populations and ecosystem dynamics in otherwise not accessible environments. Although acoustic communication of deep‐sea fish is still poorly documented, many deep‐sea species are likely to emit sounds as they possess the required anatomical structures. Here we suggest that monitoring deep‐sea fish vocal communication might help to better understand their diversity, ecology and dynamics. Emerging technologies based on PAM have the potential to provide a holistic view of the importance of acoustic communication for deep‐sea fish and, ultimately, to inform us about essential aspects for their management and protection.
The eIF2α kinase HRI in innate immunity, proteostasis, and mitochondrial stress
Authors: Girardin Stephen E. , Cuziol Camille , Philpott Dana J. , Arnoult Damien
Published: September 2020

The integrated stress response (ISR) is an evolutionary conserved stress response pathway that leads to a global arrest in translation as well as to the expression of specific genes, such as the transcription factor ATF4, to promote cellular recovery. The central nexus of this pathway is the phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) by one of the four eIF2α kinases that sense specific cellular stressors. The heme‐regulated inhibitor (HRI) is one of these kinases, and it was initially reported to be activated in response to heme deprivation. Nevertheless, further studies have established that cytosolic proteotoxicity, resulting from oxidative or osmotic stress, heat shock, and proteasome inhibition, is the predominant trigger for HRI to induce the ISR. In this review, we present newly identified functions of HRI in innate immunity, proteostasis, and mitochondrial stress. Indeed, HRI‐mediated signaling defines a novel cytosolic unfolded protein response (cUPR) required for the proper formation of some innate immune signalosomes and the control of toxic protein aggregates, and this eIF2α kinase also serves as a relay for mitonuclear communication after a mitochondrial stress.
Clinical utility of sample preheat treatment in a modified Nijmegen‐Bethesda assay (mNBA) for inhibitor monitoring in congenital and acquired haemophilia A: A single‐centre four‐year experience
Authors: Gandhi Tejas , Lawler Pura , Foxton Eleanor , Chowdary Pratima , Riddell Anne
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Laboratory monitoring for factor VIII inhibitors ideally requires samples with the lowest possible factor VIII (FVIII) level, potentially challenging in patients with congenital haemophilia A (CHA) receiving regular prophylaxis and acquired haemophilia A (AHA) patients with endogenous FVIII. Inactivation of FVIII by preheating (preheat treatment, PHT) of patient plasma has been suggested to facilitate monitoring.

Aim

To evaluate the clinical utility of PHT prior to inhibitor analysis by modified Nijmegen‐Bethesda assay (mNBA) in patients with CHA and AHA.

Methods

Inhibitor screening by mNBA under standard conditions and with PHT at 56°C for 30, 60 and 90 minutes was evaluated. FVIII inhibitor results between 2007 and 2010 without PHT (720 results from 222 CHA and AHA patients), and between 2011 and 2014 post‐PHT (1102 results from 302 patients) were available for analysis.

Results

Of total 1822 results available, 61% were from severe HA patients, 22% from mild and moderate HA and 16% from AHA. Pre‐PHT, 74% of samples were analysed by the mNBA, and the remaining 26% were not tested as FVIII levels were >20 IU/dL as per local protocol. Postintroduction of PHT (90 and 60 minutes), 96% of samples received were analysed for an inhibitor. Post‐PHT in patients with AHA (n = 26), 69% of samples tested with factor VIII levels >20 IU/dL were found to have detectable inhibitor.

Conclusion

FVIII inhibitor testing using PHT at 56°C for 60 minutes facilitates inhibitor surveillance of CHA on prophylaxis. Potentially, 30 minutes at 56°C might be equally efficacious. In AHA receiving immunosuppression, monitoring of inhibitor titre after initial factor VIII response might enable personalized immunosuppression.
Management of haemophilia patients in the COVID‐19 pandemic: Experience in Wuhan and Tianjin, two differently affected cities in China
Authors: Zhang Ai , Liu Wei , Poon Man‐Chiu , Liu Aiguo , Luo Xiaoping , Chen Lingling , Hu Qun , Yang Renchi
Published: September 2020

Objective

To identify lessons learned from haemophilia care experience in Wuhan (COVID‐19 outbreak epicenter in China) and Tianjin (with relatively low COVID‐19 incidence) in the pandemic.

Methods

We compared the challenges in haemophilia management attributed to local COVID‐19 containment policies, healthcare resource availability, clotting factors supply, daily living restrictions and coping strategies employed.

Results

Wuhan was in lockdown with strict traffic controls, enforced quarantine and overwhelmed resources. Tianjin was in relatively relaxed countermeasures to COVID‐19. In Wuhan, haemophilia treatment (for bleeding, prophylaxis, multidisciplinary team care, immune tolerance induction) and patient education were severely affected, while the challenges in Tianjin were less. In both cities, patients’ fear for COVID‐19 infection also affected their management. Coping strategy in Wuhan included channelling of clotting factors supply from hospitals to nine pharmacies; timely transfers of in‐need patients to healthcare facilities by a volunteer service network jointly coordinated by the government, hospitals and the community. Although factor concentrate supply in each city was adequate, patients still worried whether there would be enough supply to last through the pandemics. Consequently, many downgraded their treatment regimens resulting in increased bleeding episodes. In both cities, telemedicine was promoted for patient care and education.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic had varying adverse impacts on haemophilia care depending on the local infection incidence. Our experience suggests that haemophilia management strategies in the pandemic need to be established according to the local virus containment/mitigation policies, daily living restrictions and resource availability.
Primary prophylaxis was associated with lower arthropathy in Colombian men with haemophilia B: A longitudinal analysis (2015‐2019)
Authors: Hernández Vargas Juliana Alexandra , Linares Adriana , Solano María Helena , Valbuena Ana María , Acuña Lizbeth
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The risk of chronic haemophilic arthropathy (CHA) is related to severity. Evidence suggests that primary prophylaxis (PPr) could reduce CHA incidence and its impact on quality of life.

Aim

To evaluate the association between PPr and CHA in Colombian males with haemophilia B (HB) during 2015 to 2019.

Methods

A panel‐time analysis was performed with data provided by the National Health System to update a nationwide open cohort of people with congenital coagulopathies. The association was evaluated in a logistic random‐effect regression model (LRERM), adjusted by age at diagnosis, prophylaxis dose and frequency, severity, haemarthrosis and high‐titre inhibitors.

Results

During 2015‐2019, a total of 362 men with HB and treated with either, primary, secondary or tertiary prophylaxis were identified. At baseline, CHA prevalence in the cohort was 36.84% (n = 133), median age was 19.0 years (IQR: 10.0‐27.0), and median age at diagnosis was 1.0 year (IQR: 0.0‐4.0). PPr was prescribed in 37.85% (n = 137), and median dose (IU/Kg/dose) was almost the same for primary vs. secondary/tertiary prophylaxis. Patients in PPr had a lower frequency of severe HB, CHA, haemarthrosis, infectious complications and high‐titre inhibitors than those in secondary or tertiary prophylaxis (STPr). In the LRERM, PPr was associated with a significant reduction of 89.70% in the odds of CHA (aOR = 0.103, IC 95%: 0.040, 0.270; P < .001), compared with STPr.

Conclusions

PPr decreased the odds of CHA by 89.70% in males with HB in Colombia. Our findings are consistent with previous studies and support the strategy to prescribe PPr to our patients.
Investigation of microbial profile, levels of endotoxin and lipoteichoic acid in teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: a clinical study
Authors: Arruda‐Vasconcelos R. , Louzada L. M. , Feres M. , Tomson P. L. , Cooper P. R. , Gomes B. P. F. A.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To investigate the microbial profile, and levels of endotoxin (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), in infected dentine (ID) and root canals (RC) at different phases of root canal treatment in teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Methodology

Ten volunteers were included, and samples were collected from infected dentine (ID) and the root canal lumen (RC) using sterile excavators and paper points, respectively. RC samples were taken before (S1) and after (S2) chemo‐mechanical canal preparation (CMP), and after intracanal medication (ICM; S3). Checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization was used for microbial analysis. The levels of LPS and LTA were evaluated using the limulus amebocyte lysate assay and ELISA, respectively. Shapiro–Wilk’s test was used to verify data normality. Friedman’s test was used to evaluate statistical differences using checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization in the ID and RC at the different phases of the RC treatment. Post hoc Dunn’s multiple comparison test was used to verify significant differences recorded at the different time‐points. The levels of LPS and LTA were analysed statistically by using repeated measures anova and Tukey’s post hoc test to evaluate differences in both sites. The significance level was set at 5% (P < 0.05).

Results

A total of 40 DNA probes were used for microbial investigation of ID and RC samples using checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization. The levels and complexity of bacteria were similar in the ID and initial RC samples. The levels of LPS and LTA in ID were significantly higher than the initial RC samples (S1; P < 0.05). Canal preparation was effective in significantly decreasing the levels of bacteria, LPS and LTA (P < 0.05). ICM did not provide additional reduction in the levels of bacteria and LPS (P > 0.05). However, a significant reduction in the levels of LTA was observed after ICM (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The microbial profile of infected dentine and root canals of teeth with irreversible pulpitis was complex, harbouring different species including Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative, cocci and bacilli, and facultative and strict anaerobes. Root canal preparation was effective in reducing the levels of bacteria, LPS and LTA from the root canals of teeth with pulpitis.
Interferon regulatory factor 4 deficiency in CD8+ T cells abrogates terminal effector differentiation and promotes transplant acceptance
Authors: Zou Dawei , Fu Jinfei , Guo Zhiyong , Chen Wenhao
Published: September 2020

Allogeneic CD8+ cytotoxic T cells play an essential role in rejecting transplanted allografts, but how their effector function is regulated on a transcriptional level remains unclear. Herein, we investigate the role of interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) in controlling CD8+ T‐cell function in response to transplant. B6.Rag1−/− mice were adoptively transferred with CD8+ T cells isolated from either Irf4fl/flCd4‐Cre (T‐cell‐specific Irf4‐deficient) or Irf4fl/fl control mice, followed by BALB/c skin transplantation. Recipients that received Irf4‐deficient CD8+ T cells permanently accepted the skin allografts, whereas recipients that received control CD8+ T cells acutely rejected the transplanted skins. Mechanistically, compared with the transferred control CD8+ T cells in B6.Rag1−/− recipients, the transferred Irf4‐deficient CD8+ T cells lost the capacity to differentiate into CD127−KLRG1+ terminal effector cells, barely produced effector cytokines and cytotoxic molecules (e.g. IL‐2, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, granzyme A and granzyme B), and displayed defect in proliferative capacity, evident by their decreased Ki67 expression and lower frequencies. Moreover, the transferred Irf4‐deficient CD8+ T cells displayed low expression of transcription factors ID2 and T‐bet that govern the terminal effector T‐cell programmes, and high expression of transcription factor TCF1 that maintains the naïve‐memory T‐cell programmes. Hence, IRF4 deficiency in CD8+ T cells abrogates their terminal effector differentiation and promotes transplant acceptance. These findings suggest that targeting IRF4 expression represents an attractive and promising therapeutic approach for inducing transplant acceptance.
Psychiatric Euthanasia and the Ontology of Mental Disorder
Authors: Maung Hane Htut
Published: September 2020

In the Netherlands and Belgium, it is lawful for voluntary euthanasia to be offered on the grounds of psychiatric suffering. A recent case that has sparked much debate is that of Aurelia Brouwers, who was helped to die in the Netherlands on account of her suffering from borderline personality disorder. It is sometimes claimed that whether or not a mentally ill person’s wish to die is valid hinges on whether or not that wish is a symptom of the person’s mental disorder. This article addresses the philosophical problems raised by this claim, with a specific focus on the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. After considering descriptivist and causal conceptualizations of mental disorder, I argue that the current approach to borderline personality disorder in psychiatry precludes the possibility of dissociating the wish to die from the disorder. I then examine the implications of this analysis for the question of whether or not the request for voluntary euthanasia in the case of borderline personality disorder can be considered valid. Ultimately, I conclude that the inability to dissociate the wish to die from the disorder does not invalidate the wish in the case of borderline personality disorder.
Aspects of the reproductive biology of two pelagic sharks in the eastern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Wu Feng , Kindong Richard , Dai Xiaojie , Sarr Ousmane , Zhu Jiangfeng , Tian Siquan , Li Yunkai , Nsangue Bruno T. N.
Published: September 2020

This study used data provided by the Chinese Longline Fishery Scientific Observer Programme from the tropical eastern Atlantic Ocean to estimate the reproductive parameters of the blue shark (Prionace glauca) and crocodile shark (Pseudocarcharias kamoharai). Sizes ranged from 80 to 298 cm fork length (FL) for blue sharks and from 48 to 99 cm FL for crocodile sharks. Sexual segregation was observed during different months for both sharks. The sex ratio for blue sharks was 1.38 F:1 M, and 1 F:2.79 M for crocodile sharks. The size of adult blue sharks ranged from 144 to 280 cm for males and from 174 to 298 cm for females; and that of crocodile sharks from 63 to 97 cm for males and 78–99 cm for females. The size at 50% of maturity for blue sharks was estimated at 191.7 cm FL for females and 197.5 cm FL for males, and that of crocodile sharks was assessed at 84.9 cm FL for females and 78.5 cm FL for males. Most sexually matured females were pregnant; their means were 207.2 ± 16.4 cm FL for blue sharks and 89.4 ± 4.3 cm FL for crocodile sharks. Mature sizes for both species were significantly different among months. Embryonic sizes also varied widely among months for crocodile sharks, but a slight change was recorded for those of blue sharks. The observed mean size at birth and litter size were 34.5 cm FL and 37 ± 12 for the blue sharks, and that of the crocodile sharks, 39.5 cm FL and a dominant four embryos in the uterus. Due to the observed increasing catch trend of blue sharks and the slow reproductive cycle of crocodile sharks, this study presents the need of implementing conservation measures to ensure the sustainability of both species in their habitat.
Valorization of fruit and vegetable waste for biofertilizer and biogas
Authors: Chakravarty Ipsita , Mandavgane Sachin A.
Published: September 2020

The ubiquity of irrational disposal practices for fruit and vegetable waste (FVW) poses prohibitive environmental and economic liability. Anaerobic digestion of fruit and vegetable residues into biofertilizer is a potential solution to reduce environmental pollution and improve soil nutrition. High carbon and low nitrogen content is the main challenge in the bioprocessing of FVWs. In such cases, FVWs is co‐digested with another eco‐waste, the slaughterhouse wastewater (SWW). The issues of abattoir waste disposal are a serious threat to the societal health and hygiene. Interestingly, SWW is a house of mixed microorganisms which release enzymes for anaerobic digestion. In our present study, a two‐stage digestion process, that is, anaerobic digestion followed aerobic digestion using Trichoderma reesei is carried out under optimized conditions for enhanced biofertilizer formation. Each stage was completed in 15 days, total digestion time being 1 month. Biogas generated during the anaerobic process is 16 L/kg for fruit wastes (FWs) and 13.2 L/kg for vegetable wastes (VWs). Significant decrease in lignin up to 64% in case of FWs and 70% in case of VWs helped in cellulose degradation. The FVWs are finally reduced to a potential value‐added biofertilizer with 10–11 C: N ratio.

Practical Applications

Stringent wastes like fruit and vegetable waste (FVW) as well as the slaughterhouse waste were considered for bioremediation and value‐added application. A simple, rapid, unique, and easy to scale‐up technique was envisaged for conversion of FVWs into potential biofertilizer through two‐stage co‐digestion. The studies conducted will be useful for FVW management at household as well as industrial level.
Blending with shellac to improve water resistance of soybean protein isolate film
Authors: Zhang Yinglong , Li Tong , Zhang Hong , Zhang Huajiang , Chi Yujie , Zhao Xiaotong , Li Hanyu , Wen Yue
Published: September 2020

The study aims to explore a new packaging film which is prepared with soybean protein isolate (SPI) and shellac (SHL) and research the effects of the amount of SHL on the water resistance and analyze the cause. Compared with the SPI film, the water resistance including water vapor permeability, moisture content, water absorption, contact angle, the resistance of mechanical strength and appearance to immersion water of SPI/SHL films were significantly improved. The films were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope. The microstructure of films has been changed by the addition of SHL because the hydrogen bond was formed between SPI and SHL by the results of FTIR and XRD. All results showed that a dense reticular structure was formed with SPI after adding SHL, which improved the water resistance of the composite films.

Practical applications

Shellac (SHL), which is recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is a natural animal secretory substance with nontoxic, moisture proof, and other properties. Soybean protein isolate (SPI) film is a kind of biodegradable packaging material, which has been studied because of excellent degradability compared with petroleum synthetic polymer. However, the film made from SPI itself is easily soluble in water, which also has the disadvantage of poor water resistance. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to study the effect of SHL on the properties of SPI/SHL composite films and improve the water resistance of SPI film.
Workplace Learning through Human‐Machine Interaction in a Transient Multilingual Blue‐Collar Work Environment
Authors: Hovens Daan
Published: September 2020

This article explores processes of jointly negotiating work practices (i.e., workplace learning) in a contemporary blue‐collar work environment characterized by transience, language diversity, and limited opportunities for human‐human interaction. The article is based on linguistic‐ethnographic fieldwork in a metal foundry in the Dutch‐German borderland, where many employees have temporary contracts and diverse language backgrounds, and where many production tasks are delegated to machines. The article shows that human‐machine interaction, combined with a newcomer’s ability to observe and hypothesize, can fulfill vital functions for workplace learning processes, while the temporariness of work relations can demotivate employees to invest in these processes.
A novel treatment for skin repair using a combination of spironolactone and vitamin D3
Authors: Biyashev Dauren , Onay Ummiye V. , Dalal Prarthana , Demczuk Michael , Evans Spencer , Techner José‐Marc , Lu Kurt Q.
Published: September 2020

Injury of the skin from exposure to toxic chemicals leads to the release of inflammatory mediators and the recruitment of immune cells. Nitrogen mustard (NM) and other alkylating agents cause severe cutaneous damage for which there are limited treatment options. Here, we show that combined treatment of vitamin D3 (VD3) and spironolactone (SP), a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, significantly improves the resolution of inflammation and accelerates wound healing after NM exposure. SP enhanced the inhibitory effect of VD3 on nuclear factor‐kB activity. Combined treatment of NM‐exposed mice with VD3 and SP synergistically inhibited the expression of iNOS in the skin and decreased the expression of matrix metallopeptidase‐9, C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2, interleukin (IL)‐1α, and IL‐1β. The combined treatment decreased the number of local proinflammatory M1 macrophages resulting in an increase in the M2/M1 ratio in the wound microenvironment. Apoptosis was also decreased in the skin after combined treatment. Together, this creates a proresolution state, resulting in more rapid wound closure. Combined VD3 and SP treatment is effective in modulating the immune response and activating anti‐inflammatory pathways in macrophages to facilitate tissue repair. Altogether, these data demonstrate that VD3 and SP may constitute an effective treatment regimen to improve wound healing after NM or other skin chemical injury.
Aberrantly expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs after botulinum toxin type A inhibiting salivary secretion
Authors: Mao Qian‐Ying , Xie Shang , Wu Li‐Ling , Xiang Ruo‐Lan , Cai Zhi‐Gang
Published: September 2020

Objective

In this study, we sought to determine the expression profiles of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and construct functional networks to analyze their potential roles following botulinum toxin type A (BTXA)‐mediated inhibition of salivary secretion.

Methods

The submandibular gland of rats in the BTXA and control groups was injected with BTXA and saline, respectively. Microarray analysis was used to identify the differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs. Gene ontology and pathway analysis were performed to examine the biological functions. Functional networks, including lncRNA‐mRNA co‐expression and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, were constructed to reveal the interaction between the coding and non‐coding genes.

Results

Microarray analysis revealed that 254 lncRNAs and 631 mRNAs were differentially expressed between the BTXA and control groups. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that most of the mRNAs were closely related to transmembrane transporter activity. lncRNA‐mRNA co‐expression and ceRNA networks were constructed, and several critical mRNA‐lncRNA axes and key microRNAs related to salivary secretion were identified.

Conclusions

Our study identified differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs through microarray analysis and explored the interactions between the coding and non‐coding genes through bioinformatic analysis. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of BTXA‐mediated inhibition of salivary secretion.
Transcriptomic analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients
Authors: Bin‐Alee Fardeela , Arayataweegool Areeya , Buranapraditkun Supranee , Mahattanasakul Patnarin , Tangjaturonrasme Napadon , Hirankarn Nattiya , Mutirangura Apiwat , Kitkumthorn Nakarin
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To investigate the gene expression profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including oral cancer (OC) and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) patients, and compare them with healthy controls (HC).

Materials and Methods

Transcriptomic analysis of PBMCs was performed by RNA‐sequencing. The upregulated candidate genes were selected for validation by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In addition, related plasma protein levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Three significantly upregulated genes, including high mobility group nucleosomal binding domain 2 (HMGN2), folate receptor gamma (FOLR3), and amphiregulin (AREG), were selected. In the first cohort, the results showed that only HMGN2 expression was significantly increased in OC patients. In the larger sample size, the overall results demonstrated that HMGN2 expression had a tendency to increase in both OC and OPC patients compared with HC. Interestingly, the plasma HMGN2 (HMG‐17) protein level exhibited the same trend as that observed at the transcriptional level.

Conclusion

HMGN2 expression and plasma HMG‐17 (HMGN2 protein) were increased in both cancer patients compared with HC. This gene may be important for further functional studies in the PBMCs of HNSCC patients.
Association of childhood asthma with postoperative pneumonia
Authors: Krishna Amogha , Mpody Christian , Tobias Joseph D. , Nafiu Olubukola O.
Published: September 2020

Background

Bronchial asthma is the most pervasive chronic disease among children in the United States. Pneumonia, an acute pulmonary disorder, is also quite common, affecting individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. Despite the widespread recognition of bronchial asthma as a common, potentially life‐threatening disease, its impact on the risk of serious pulmonary infections such as postoperative pneumonia is under‐appreciated. We examined the association of bronchial asthma with postoperative pneumonia in a matched cohort of children who underwent inpatient surgical procedures.

Method

We assembled a propensity score‐matched retrospective cohort of children (<18 years of age) who underwent inpatient surgery between 2012 and 2015, in hospitals participating in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Our primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative pneumonia. We used Fine‐Gray sub‐distributional hazard regression to estimate the hazard ratio of postoperative pneumonia, while accounting for the competing risk by mortality.

Results

The unmatched cohort comprised of 93 061 children who met the eligibility criteria, of whom 7.8% (n = 7237) had a preoperative diagnosis of bronchial asthma. The cumulative incidence of pneumonia was 4.5% (95% confidence interval: 2.8%, 8.3%) among children without bronchial asthma and 8.5% (95% confidence interval: 5.8%, 11.8%) among those with bronchial asthma. Throughout the 30‐day postoperative period, the risk of pneumonia almost doubled among children with bronchial asthma compared to their nonasthmatic peers (hazard ratio: 1.71; 95% confidence interval: 1.24, 2.35; P = .001).

Conclusion

Children with bronchial asthma had a significantly greater risk of postoperative pneumonia. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these associations and determine if perioperative interventions can mitigate this association.
Negative pressure wound treatment in a neonate with epidermolysis bullosa simplex severe generalized: A case report
Authors: Schlueer Anna‐Barbara , Schwieger‐Briel Agnes , Theiler Martin , Neuhaus Kathrin , Schiestl Clemens , Weibel Lisa
Published: September 2020

Negative pressure wound treatment (NPWT) is very useful for the treatment of chronic or deep wounds and in the setting of skin grafting. Due to the need for adhesive dressings, this treatment is rarely attempted in patients with skin fragility secondary to hereditary epidermolysis bullosa (EB). We present a neonate with EB simplex, severe generalized in a critical clinical state where NPWT was successfully applied and describe the measures taken to avoid any further skin damage. This case is of clinical importance to physicians and health care staff treating patients with this rare disease where additional therapeutic measures for the treatment of chronic wounds are scarce.
Publication productivity (H‐Index) among pediatric dermatologists in the United States
Authors: Monir Reesa L. , Satcher Kerrie G. , Motaparthi Kiran , Schoch Jennifer J.
Published: September 2020

Background/Objective

The h‐index is a measure of research achievement. Individuals with similar h‐indices should be equivalent in terms of scientific impact. However, this value is inherently biased toward fields with higher visibility and readership. To utilize the power of h‐indices in predicting future research success and as a benchmark for academic advancement, niche fields like pediatric dermatology must be examined independently.

Methods

Publicly available data were examined. A list of current pediatric dermatologists were obtained from the Society for Pediatric Dermatology's member directory. The following demographic information was obtained: fellowship certification year, PhD status, prior pediatric residency training, state/region, practice setting, academic appointment, number of publications, and h‐index. Descriptive and analytic statistics were calculated.

Results

A total of 317 pediatric dermatologists were included. Practice setting distribution was as follows: 54.3% academic, 32.5% non‐academic, and 13.3% combined. H‐index differed significantly based on pediatric dermatology certification year (P < .001), increasing as time from certification increased. Those in academics had higher h‐indices than those in both non‐academic and combined practice settings (P < .001 and .007, respectively). Professors (25.0) had higher h‐indices than associate professors (11.0), who had higher h‐indices than assistant professors (4.4) (P < .001).

Conclusions

H‐index increased with increasing academic rank and was highest among those working in academics. For pediatric dermatologists considering application for promotion, the h‐index for each level can serve as a useful benchmark to guide decision‐making.
Subcutaneous granuloma annulare induced by acetazolamide
Authors: Guimaraes Maria Jose , Gomes Joana , Caldas Regina , Almeida Filipa , Brito Celeste
Published: September 2020

A 9‐year‐old boy presented with recurring subcutaneous nodules on both legs and knees temporally related each time to acetazolamide treatment for idiopathic intracranial hypertension. A biopsy of one of the lesions revealed palisaded granulomas in the hypodermis around necrobiotic collagen and interstitial accumulation of mucin, compatible with subcutaneous granuloma annulare (SGA). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case that establishes an association between SGA and acetazolamide.