bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary distribution of Macrozamia dyeri (Zamiaceae) is correlated with patterns of Nyungar occupation in south‐east coastal Western Australia
Authors: Lullfitz Alison , Dabb Annie , Reynolds Ron (Doc) , Knapp Lynette , Pettersen Carol , Hopper Stephen D.
Published: May 2020

Indigenous societies’ interactions with plants may result in contemporary distribution patterns that reflect these relationships, such as concentration of resource species close to occupation sites or transport routes. Seeds of the cycad, Macrozamia dyeri, are food of Nyungar First People of the south‐eastern Southwest Australian Floristic Region. Processing of seeds by leaching in soil or water enables detoxification and preservation of the pre‐colonial staple, a Nyungar technique archaeologically dated to at least 13 000 years BP. We measured the distance of M. dyeri populations to cultural landscape features and registered heritage sites. We also compared within‐population plant distribution characteristics to Nyungar occupation preferences around granite inselbergs. We found evidence of Nyungar influence on contemporary distribution of M. dyeri. Populations of M. dyeri occur close to surface water features in the west and granite outcrops in the east of Nyungar country, which corresponds closely to differential pre‐colonial patterns of Nyungar occupation. M. dyeri population frequency was negatively correlated with distance to registered Nyungar sites, and 75% of all M. dyeri populations occur within 3.2 km of a registered Nyungar site. We found no correlation between habitat availability and size of granite populations, but found that Nyungar occupation preferences in relation to ground surface aspect, slope and landform type correlated with intra‐population M. dyeri plant distribution, suggesting a mutualistic relationship with Nyungar people, has influenced the plant’s distribution. We suggest that contemporary M. dyeri distribution is therefore useful for interpreting past location‐specific Nyungar land practices to inform contemporary conservation management. Our findings demonstrate that along with edaphic, climate and other environmental factors, consideration of pre‐colonial human dispersal and land practices is important for plant conservation in Australia, particularly for taxa with prolonged use by humans. Further, we suggest that analyses of long‐lived Macrozamia elsewhere may be useful for interpreting past Aboriginal land practices.
A review on temperature and humidity effects onDrosophila suzukiipopulation dynamics
Authors: Winkler Alicia , Jung Jeanette , Kleinhenz Benno , Racca Paolo
Published: May 2020

Drosophila suzukiiis an invasive polyphagous pest of wild and cultivated soft‐skinned fruits, which can cause widespread economic damage in orchards and vineyards.

The simulation and prediction ofD. suzukii'spopulation dynamics would be helpful for guiding pest management. Therefore, we reviewed and summarized the current knowledge on effects of air temperature and relative humidity on different life cycle parameters ofD. suzukii.

The literature summary presented shows that high oviposition rates can occur between 18 and 30 °C. Temperatures between 16 and 25 °C resulted in fast and high egg‐to‐adult development success of more than 80%. Oviposition and adult life span were positively affected by high relative humidity; however, the factor humidity is so far rarely investigated.

We assume that this is one reason why relative humidity usually is not considered in modelling approaches, which are summarized herein. The high number of recently published research articles onD. suzukii's life cycle suggests that there is already a lot of knowledge available on its biology. However, there are still considerable research gaps mentioned in the literature, which are also summarized herein.

Nevertheless, we conclude that sufficient temperature data in the literature are suitable to understand and predict population dynamics ofD. suzukii, in order to assist pest management in the field.
The 5‐year follow‐up of a real‐world observational study of patients in the United Kingdom and Ireland receiving ibrutinib for relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Tucker David , Morley Nick , MacLean Peter , Vandenberghe Elisabeth , Booth Stephen , Parisi Lori , Rule Simon
Published: May 2020

This is a 5‐year real‐world study of 65 patients treated with ibrutinib for relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma across the UK and Ireland. Ibrutinib was well tolerated with no fatal adverse events. The median progression‐free survival and overall survival (OS) was 12 and 18·5 months, respectively. Overall, 80% of patients discontinued treatment, predominantly for progressive disease. On discontinuation, 20% received alternative immunochemotherapy with a median OS of 24 months. Ibrutinib was used as a bridge to transplant in 8% (median OS not reached). These observations are comparable with trial outcomes with encouraging responses to immunochemotherapy at relapse.
How does familiarity with a voice affect trait judgements?
Authors: Lavan Nadine , Mileva Mila , McGettigan Carolyn
Published: May 2020

From only a single spoken word, listeners can form a wealth of first impressions of a person’s character traits and personality based on their voice. However, due to the substantial within‐person variability in voices, these trait judgements are likely to be highly stimulus‐dependent for unfamiliar voices: The same person may sound very trustworthy in one recording but less trustworthy in another. How trait judgements differ when listeners are familiar with a voice is unclear: Are listeners who are familiar with the voices as susceptible to the effects of within‐person variability? Does the semantic knowledge listeners have about a familiar person influence their judgements? In the current study, we tested the effect of familiarity on listeners’ trait judgements from variable voices across 3 experiments. Using a between‐subjects design, we contrasted trait judgements by listeners who were familiar with a set of voices – either through laboratory‐based training or through watching a TV show – with listeners who were unfamiliar with the voices. We predicted that familiarity with the voices would reduce variability in trait judgements for variable voice recordings from the same identity (cf. Mileva, Kramer & Burton, Perception, 48, 471 and 2019, for faces). However, across the 3 studies and two types of measures to assess variability, we found no compelling evidence to suggest that trait impressions were systematically affected by familiarity.
Efficacy and safety of hydrolyzed formulas for cow's milk allergy management: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Stróżyk Agata , Horvath Andrea , Meyer Rosan , Szajewska Hania
Published: May 2020

Objective

To summarize evidence on the efficacy and safety of the use of extensively hydrolyzed formulas (EHFs) for the treatment of children with cow's milk allergy (CMA).

Design

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) per PRISMA guidelines. The risk of bias of included RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool. In general, a narrative synthesis of the findings was performed. When sufficient data were available, a meta‐analysis using the random‐effect model was performed.

Data sources

The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases were searched up to February 2020.

Eligibility criteria

RCTs, including cross‐over trials, assessing children of any age with any type of CMA that compared use of a formula containing extensively hydrolyzed bovine proteins (whey and/or casein) with use of any other formula for CMA management, were eligible for inclusion. Each type of EHF was evaluated separately. Outcome measures included allergic reactions (ie gastrointestinal, dermatological, and respiratory symptoms), growth, tolerance acquisition to cow's milk proteins, health‐related quality of life, and safety.

Results

Fifteen trials reported in 18 publications (1285 children) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The study findings were limited by numerous methodological issues, including differences in outcome measures and their definitions, lack of pre‐specified protocols and/or trial registration, and poor reporting of adverse events, methods of sequence generation and allocation concealment. The EHF products evaluated to date appear to be well‐tolerated by most children with CMA. However, published studies do not allow for any conclusion to be reached regarding the benefit of one formula over another formula intended for CMA management.

Conclusions

This systematic review highlights the need for standardized treatment protocols, including an agreed‐upon standardized set of outcomes that should be measured and reported in all clinical trials of specialized milk formula for the management of CMA.
How do signaling and transcription factors regulate both axis elongation and Hox gene expression along the anteroposterior axis?
Authors: Saito Seiji , Suzuki Takayuki
Published: May 2020

In vertebrates, vertebral primordia, called somites, are formed from the head to the tail along the anteroposterior axis of the body during development. The presomitic mesoderm (PSM), which differentiates into somites, is formed by continuous supply of new cells derived from the caudal lateral epiblast (CLE), resulting in body axis posterior elongation. Previous studies of mutants identified genes for posterior extension and vertebral patterning along the anteroposterior axis. Hox gene has been extensively investigated for its expression pattern and transcriptional regulation. In recent years, to elucidate the mechanism that controls the expression patterns of Hox genes, researchers have not only searched for enhancer regions and the transcription factors that bind to them but have also investigated chromatin structure, epigenetics and non‐coding RNA associated with Hox gene expression. These new findings reveal that the previously identified genes essential for posterior body axis elongation of the embryo determine positional information along the anteroposterior axis by induction of Hox genes via enhancer regions. In this review, we focus on genes that control posterior elongation and vertebral patterning along the anteroposterior axis in the PSM and CLE. We first describe the mechanism of maintenance of the stem cell‐like cell populations at the CLE, which is essential for the posterior elongation of the embryo. Next, the factors involved in posterior region formation and patterning of the vertebra are described. Finally, we discuss the regulatory mechanism of Hox gene expression and the mechanism that is responsible for the differences in skeletal pattern between species.
Pulse‐cancellation echocardiography in Fabry disease diagnosis
Authors: Joye Evan , Zheng Wen Qian , Torosoff Mikhail
Published: May 2020

Pulse‐cancellation imaging is a novel echocardiographic imaging modality developed for detection of myocardial fibrosis. This technique cancels echocardiographic reflections from the normal myocardium but clearly displays the abnormal tissue. We describe, for the first time, pulse‐cancellation echocardiography application in detecting Fabry disease myocardial involvement. We present the case where both pulse‐cancellation imaging and cardiac MRI concurrently revealed myocardial deposits in a patient with genotypically confirmed Fabry disease.
Alignment and Implications for Test Takers
Authors: Welch Catherine J. , Dunbar Stephen B.
Published: May 2020

The use of assessment results to inform school accountability relies on the assumption that the test design appropriately represents the content and cognitive emphasis reflected in the state's standards. Since the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act and the certification of accountability assessments through federal peer review practices, the content validity arguments supporting accountability have relied almost exclusively on the alignment of statewide assessments to state standards. It is assumed that if alignment does not hold, the scores will not provide valid inferences regarding the degree to which test takers have performed. Although alignment results are commonly used as evidence of test appropriateness, Polikoff (this issue) would argue that given the importance of alignment in policy decisions, research related to alignment is surprisingly limited. Few studies have addressed the adequacy of alignment methodologies and results as support for the inferences to be made (i.e., proficient on state standards). This paper uses an example of test taker performance (and common performance indicators) to investigate to what extent the degree of alignment impacts inferences made about performance (i.e., classification into performance levels, estimates of student ability, and student rank order).
Family Life Education for Families Facing Acute Stress: Best Practices and Recommendations
Authors: Myers‐Walls Judith A.
Published: May 2020

Acute family stress in this article is defined as the sudden or unexpected onset of moderate to severe discomfort or disequilibrium and feeling of inadequacy among family members in light of perceived insufficient available resources. Historically, there has been some ambivalence about stress—especially acute stress—and family life education. More recently, authors have suggested that the important issue determining appropriateness is not the topic but the approach used by the professionals. Several approaches are presented here that have been used by professionals to help children and families dealing with acute stress. They include care for self, identify acute stress, support caregivers and central figures in social networks, help families understand stress and coping, help adults talk with children, connect families with the familiar, collaborate with other professionals, and advocate for families.
Oxygen‐sensing mechanisms in cells
Authors: Wilson James W. , Shakir Dilem , Batie Michael , Frost Mark , Rocha Sonia
Published: May 2020

The importance of oxygen for the survival of multicellular and aerobic organisms is well established and documented. Over the years, increased knowledge of its use for bioenergetics has placed oxygen at the centre of research on mitochondria and ATP‐generating processes. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing cellular oxygen sensing and response has allowed for the discovery of novel pathways oxygen is involved in, culminating with the award of the Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology in 2019 to the pioneers of this field, Greg Semenza, Peter Ratcliffe and William Kaelin. However, it is now beginning to be appreciated that oxygen can be a signalling molecule involved in a vast array of molecular processes, most of which impinge on gene expression control. This review will focus on the knowns and unknowns of oxygen as a signalling molecule, highlighting the role of 2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenases as central players in the cellular response to deviations in oxygen tension.
A Guide to COVID‐19: a global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Atzrodt Cassandra L. , Maknojia Insha , McCarthy Robert D. P. , Oldfield Tiara M. , Po Jonathan , Ta Kenny T. L. , Stepp Hannah E. , Clements Thomas P.
Published: May 2020

The emergence of the SARS‐CoV‐2 strain of the human coronavirus has thrown the world into the midst of a new pandemic. In the human body, the virus causes COVID‐19, a disease characterized by shortness of breath, fever, and pneumonia, which can be fatal in vulnerable individuals. SARS‐CoV‐2 has characteristics of past human coronaviruses, with close genomic similarities to SARS‐CoV, the virus that causes the disease SARS. Like these related coronaviruses, SARS‐CoV‐2 is transmitted through the inhalation of droplets and interaction with contaminated surfaces. Across the world, laboratories are developing candidate vaccines for the virus – with vaccine trials underway in the United States and the United Kingdom – and considering various drugs for possible treatments and prophylaxis. Here, we provide an overview of SARS‐CoV‐2 by analyzing its virology, epidemiology, and modes of transmission while examining the current progress of testing procedures and possible treatments through drugs and vaccines.
Global changes may be promoting a rise in select cyanobacteria in nutrient‐poor northern lakes
Authors: Freeman Erika C. , Creed Irena F. , Jones Blake , Bergström Ann‐Kristin
Published: May 2020

The interacting effects of global changes—including increased temperature, altered precipitation, reduced acidification and increased dissolved organic matter loads to lakes—are anticipated to create favourable environmental conditions for cyanobacteria in northern lakes. However, responses of cyanobacteria to these global changes are complex, if not contradictory. We hypothesized that absolute and relative biovolumes of cyanobacteria (both total and specific genera) are increasing in Swedish nutrient‐poor lakes and that these increases are associated with global changes. We tested these hypotheses using data from 28 nutrient‐poor Swedish lakes over 16 years (1998–2013). Increases in cyanobacteria relative biovolume were identified in 21% of the study sites, primarily in the southeastern region of Sweden, and were composed mostly of increases from three specific genera:Merismopedia,ChroococcusandDolichospermum. Taxon‐specific changes were related to different environmental stressors; that is, increased surface water temperature favoured higherMerismopediarelative biovolume in low pH lakes with high nitrogen to phosphorus ratios, whereas acidification recovery was statistically related to increased relative biovolumes ofChroococcusandDolichospermum. In addition, enhanced dissolved organic matter loads were identified as potential determinants ofChroococcussuppression andDolichospermumpromotion. Our findings highlight that specific genera of cyanobacteria benefit from different environmental changes. Our ability to predict the risk of cyanobacteria prevalence requires consideration of the environmental condition of a lake and the sensitivities of the cyanobacteria genera within the lake. Regional patterns may emerge due to spatial autocorrelations within and among lake history, rates and direction of environmental change and the niche space occupied by specific cyanobacteria.
Nonlinear dynamics of fires in Africa over recent decades controlled by precipitation
Authors: Wei Fangli , Wang Shuai , Fu Bojie , Brandt Martin , Pan Naiqing , Wang Cong , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: May 2020

Dynamics of fires in Africa are of critical importance for understanding changes in ecosystem properties and effects on the global carbon cycle. Given increasing fire risk from projected warming on the one hand and a documented human‐driven decline in fires on the other, it is still unknown how the complex interplay between climate and human factors affects recent changes of fires in Africa. Moreover, the impact of recent strong El Niño events on fire dynamics is not yet known. By applying an ensemble empirical mode decomposition method to satellite‐derived fire burned area, we investigated the spatio‐temporal evolution of fires in Africa over 2001–2016 and identified the potential dominant drivers. Our results show an overall decline of fire rates, which is continuous over the time period and mainly caused by cropland expansion in northern sub‐Saharan Africa. However, we also find that years of high precipitation have caused an initial increase in fire rates in southern Africa, which reversed to a decline in later years. This decline is caused by a high frequency of dry years leading to very low fuel loads, suggesting that recent drought causes a general reduction of burned areas, in particular in xeric savannas. In some mesic regions (10°–15°S), solar radiation and increased temperature caused increase in fires. These findings show that climate change overrules the impact of human expansion on fire rates at the continental scale in Africa, reducing the fire risk.
Tissue‐inhibitors of metalloproteinase‐1 and vascular‐endothelial growth‐factor in severe haemophilia A children on low dose prophylactic recombinant factor VIII: Relation to subclinical arthropathy
Authors: Andrawes Nevine Gamal , Saker Hossam Mousa , Salah El‐Din Nouran Yousef , Abd Elhakim Hussain Mervat
Published: May 2020

Background

Subclinical synovitis occur long before clinical haemophilic arthropathy (HA). New biomarkers are needed for early detection of HA.

Aim

To compare the levels of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)in severe haemophilia A boys on prophylaxis and on‐demand therapy to healthy boys and correlate them with the haemophilia joint health score (HJHS) & the Denver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scale; hence, determine their values in early detection of HA.

Methods

Haemophilia joint health score, serum TIMP‐1, VEGF and Denver MRI score were assessed in 50 boys with severe haemophilia A (31 on prophylactic factor VIII therapy (62%) with a dose of 15 IU/kg/twice weekly) and 50 age‐matched healthy boys.

Results

Boys with severe haemophilia A had significantly higher TIMP‐1 240 ng/mL, SD200‐350 (P < .001) and VEGF 600 pg/mL, SD400‐1100 (P < .001). Their mean HJHS was 4.5 ± 3.0 (0‐11) and their mean Denver MRI score was 5.55 ± 1.6 (2.00‐8.00). A significant positive correlation was found between TIMP‐1 and VEGF (P < .001), BMI Z‐score (P = .029), HJHS (P = .041)and total MRI score (<.001). Significant correlations were found between VEGF and age (P < .001), HJHS (P = .003) and total MRI score (P < .001). Boys with severe haemophilia A on prophylaxis therapy had significantly lower HJHS (P = .021), VEGF (P < .001), TIMP‐1 (P = .002) and total MRI score (P = .021) than those on on‐demand therapy. Receiver operating characteristic curve, defined a cut‐off value of 160 ng/mL for TIMP‐1 with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 60% and that of 350 pg/mL for VEGF with a sensitivity of 78% and specificity of 88% for discrimination between severe haemophilia A and healthy boys.

Conclusion

Vascular endothelial growth factor and TIMP‐1 can be used for early detection of HA. Further prospective studies should include larger study populations. In addition, studies should address the role of various anti‐VEGFs as potential therapy for HA and their impact on prevention and treatment of HA.
Health, cognition and work capacity beyond the age of 50: International evidence on the extensive and intensive margins of work
Authors: VANDENBERGHE Vincent
Published: May 2020

This article uses the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) to consider the soundness of recent reforms to raise the age of retirement. Findings indicate that physical health and cognitive performance deteriorate with age and have negative effects on the employment rate of the 50–54 age group. The impact of poor cognition is lower than that of ill health, and both have greater effects on employment than on hours. This being said, at most, health and cognitive decline explain 35 per cent of observed work reduction. This hints at a sizeable underused work capacity among elderly Europeans.
Rapid enzymatic burn debridement: A review of the paediatric clinical trial experience
Authors: Shoham Yaron , Krieger Yuval , Rubin Guy , Koenigs Ingo , Hartmann Bernd , Sander Frank , Schulz Alexandra , David Keren , Rosenberg Lior , Silberstein Eldad
Published: May 2020

NexoBrid (NXB) has been proven to be an effective selective enzymatic debridement agent in adults. This manuscript presents the combined clinical trial experience with NXB in children. Hundred and ten children aged 0.5 to 18 years suffering from deep thermal burns of up to 67% total body surface area were treated with NXB in three clinical trials. Seventy‐seven children were treated with NXB in a phase I/II study, where 92.7% of the areas treated achieved complete eschar removal within 0.9 days from admission. Thirty‐three children (17 NXB, 16 standard of care [SOC]) participated in a phase III randomized controlled trial. All wounds treated with NXB achieved complete eschar removal. Time to complete eschar removal (from informed consent) was 0.9 days for NXB vs 6.5 days for SOC (P < .001). The incidence of surgical excision was 7.9% for NXB vs 73.3% for SOC (P < .001). Seventeen of these children participated in a phase III‐b follow‐up study (9 NXB and 8 SOC). The average long‐term modified Vancouver Scar Scale scores were 3.4 for NXB‐treated wounds vs 4.4 for SOC‐treated wounds (NS). There were no significant treatment‐related adverse events. Additional studies are needed to strengthen these results.
Conversion of positive‐pressure cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories to a novel 2‐zone negative‐pressure system during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Truesdell Monica , Guttman Paul , Clarke Barbara , Wagner Sheryl , Bloom Jim , DuShane Jeff , Richardson Linda , VanderElzen Kristen , Chetcuti Stanley , Oral Hakan
Published: May 2020

During coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, there continues to be a need to utilize cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories for emergent and urgent procedures. Per infection prevention guidelines and hospital codes, catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories are usually built as positive‐pressure ventilation rooms to minimize the infection risk. However, patients with highly transmissible airborne diseases such as COVID‐19 are best caredfor in negative ventilation rooms to minimize the risk of transmission. From a mechanical and engineering perspective, positive‐pressure ventilation rooms cannot be readily converted to negative‐pressure ventilation rooms. In this report, we describe a novel, quick, readily implantable, and resource‐friendly approach on how to secure air quality in catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories by converting a positive‐pressure ventilation room to a two‐zone negative ventilation system to minimize the risk of transmission.
Challenges and strategies to research ethics in conducting COVID‐19 research
Authors: Ma Xitao , Wang Yanqiao , Gao Tian , He Qing , He Yan , Yue Rensong , You Fengming , Tang Jianyuan
Published: May 2020

The number of research involving human subjects on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is surging, bringing challenges to the ethical review committee (ERC) in terms of reviewing speed and special ethical considerations under the pandemic. However, the existing ethical review system and regulations have their limitations to meet the demand for a prompt and efficient epidemic control. Since the research under the public health emergency is different from that carried out in familiar situations to design and implementation, the strategy for a satisfactory ERC response should balance the duty of protecting individual participants as well as the special public needs derived from the disease control. It is suggested that the ethical review‐related regulations need to be updated, and a unified supervision system to the overall ERC is required. ERC collaboration, capacity‐improving and efficiency‐improving measures need to be taken. With respect to the reviewing guidelines, it is suggested that the international norms should be explained with more consideration of the local condition and the exceptional circumstances in this public health emergency. A joint effort needs to be taken for better research conduction.
Effect of shade and sintering temperature on the translucency parameter of a novel multi‐layered monolithic zirconia in different thicknesses
Authors: Sanal Fatma A. , Kilinc Hamiyet
Published: May 2020

Objective

The objective of the present research was to evaluate the effect of sintering temperatures (1350°C, 1450°C, and 1600°C) of a novel multi‐layered esthetic zirconia material (Katana 12Z/STML) on the grain sizes and on the translucency parameters (TP00) for 2 different shades (A2‐A3) and 2 different thicknesses (1‐1.5 mm).

Material and Methods

A total of 120 non‐sintered specimens were randomly divided into three subgroups according to sintering temperatures. The TP00 and grain sizes of the sintered specimens were calculated. Statistical analyses were performed using 3‐way ANOVA, 1‐way ANOVA, and Tukey's post hoc tests.

Results

TP00 increased 1.2 to 1.5 times as the specimen thickness decreased from 1.5 to 1 mm (P ≤ .05). The lowest TP00 values were recorded for sintering at 1350°C for the investigated thicknesses and shades (P ≤ .05). The interaction of sintering temperature and shade was significant (P ≤ .05). Grain sizes were ordered according to sintering temperature as 1350°C < 1450°C < 1600°C (P ≤ .05).

Conclusions

TP00 values decreased with the increase in the thickness of the monolithic zirconia. The sintering temperatures and their interaction with shade significantly affected TP00 values. The grain size increased with increasing sintering temperature.

Clinical significance

The translucency of a novel multi‐layered monolithic zirconia increased with higher sintering temperatures and lower thickness. The grain size increased with the increase in the sintering temperature. The sintering temperature of 1600°C led to a significant change in translucency for shade A3.
Stable‐isotope analysis reveals sources of organic matter and ontogenic feeding shifts of a mangrove‐dependent predator species, New Granada sea catfish, Ariopsis canteri
Authors: Sandoval Luis Alejandro , Leal‐Flórez Jenny , Blanco‐Libreros Juan Felipe , Mancera‐Pineda José Ernesto , Delgado‐Huertas Antonio , Polo‐Silva Carlos Julio
Published: May 2020

To gain a better understanding on the trophic ecology of New Granada sea catfish, Ariopsis canteri, and their linkage to mangroves, nitrogen and stable carbon isotopes (δ15N and δ13C), as well as Bayesian mixing models, were used to explore trophic dynamics and potential ontogenic feeding shifts across different size classes: class I (8–20 cm), class II (21–32 cm) and class III (>32 cm). The study area was the estuary of the Atrato River Delta, where information about fish ecology is scarce. The δ13C of size class I was lower (mean ± s.d. = −24.96 ± 0.69‰) than that of size classes II (−22.20 ± 0.90‰) and III (−22.00 ± 1.96‰). The δ15N of size class I was lower (mean ± s.d. = 8.50 ± 0.67‰) than that of size classes II (9.77 ± 0.60‰) and III (10.00 ± 0.66‰). Body size was positively and significantly correlated to δ15N and δ13C. Individuals with LT > 32 cm presented the highest estimated trophic position (3.8). Five‐source mixing models indicated that for class I, the mean estimated contribution of macroalgae was the highest (6%–57% c.i.), and for classes II and III, the mean estimated contribution of macrophytes was the highest (3%–53% c.i. and 4%–53% c.i., respectively). Ontogenetic feeding shifts of A. canteri were confirmed evidencing decreasing intraspecific competition between small and large individuals. Results suggest that mangroves are a nursery and feeding ground habitat for this species and that mangroves support A. canteri mainly due to the substrate/habitat that supports sources in the food webs. These results can be used in ecosystem‐based fishery management focused on the protection of extensive mangrove areas in the southern Caribbean Sea.
Innovations hair restoration surgeons have made to adapt to the challenges of follicular unit excision
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Bruce Anthony , Trivellini Roberto , Dua Kapil , Mohebi Parsa , True Robert H. , Harris James A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Early use of follicular unit excision (FUE) as a method of hair transplantation was limited by high rates of hair follicle transection. This hurdle has been overcome by innovative methods, punch shapes, and devices. With the vast array of tools available, it can be difficult for hair transplant surgeons to choose the best option for their practices.

Aims

To provide an in‐depth review and comparison of currently available FUE methods, punch designs, and motorized devices, and discuss how these tools fit the unique skin and hair characteristics of patients.

Methods

A review of the literature and available information on FUE methods, punches, and devices, as well as the authors’ experience in this area, is provided.

Results

Innovative FUE methods, punch shapes, and motorized devices have successfully minimized the rate of hair follicle transection. Methods include the use of sharp punches with depth control, and blunt rotating punches. Punch shapes such as flared, hybrid, and edge out have successfully reduced transections by keeping the cutting edge away from the follicles under the skin. The development of motorized devices using features including rotation, roto‐oscillation, oscillation, vibration, suction, and hydration has also aided in achieving more successful graft excision.

Conclusion

Follicular unit excision is a widely used technique by hair restoration surgeons. Therefore, it is important for physicians to be aware of the array of punches and devices available and understand how these tools can be used to adapt to the unique skin and hair characteristics of individual patients to optimize successful graft harvesting.
Patients with Lemierre syndrome have a high risk of new thromboembolic complications, clinical sequelae and death: an analysis of 712 cases
Authors: Valerio L. , Zane F. , Sacco C. , Granziera S. , Nicoletti T. , Russo M. , Corsi G. , Holm K. , Hotz M.‐A. , Righini C. , Karkos P. D. , Mahmoudpour S. H. , Kucher N. , Verhamme P. , Di Nisio M. , Centor R. M. , Konstantinides S. V. , Pecci A. , Barco S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Lemierre syndrome is characterized by head/neck vein thrombosis and septic embolism usually complicating an acute oropharyngeal bacterial infection in adolescents and young adults. We described the course of Lemierre syndrome in the contemporary era.

Methods

In our individual‐level analysis of 712 patients (2000–2017), we included cases described as Lemierre syndrome if these criteria were met: (i) primary site of bacterial infection in the head/neck; (ii) objectively confirmed local thrombotic complications or septic embolism. The study outcomes were new or recurrent venous thromboembolism or peripheral septic lesions, major bleeding, all‐cause death and clinical sequelae.

Results

The median age was 21 (Q1–Q3: 17–33) years, and 295 (41%) were female. At diagnosis, acute thrombosis of head/neck veins was detected in 597 (84%) patients, septic embolism in 582 (82%) and both in 468 (80%). After diagnosis and during in‐hospital follow‐up, new venous thromboembolism occurred in 34 (5.2%, 95% CI 3.8–7.2%) patients, new peripheral septic lesions became evident in 76 (11.7%; 9.4–14.3%). The rate of either was lower in patients who received anticoagulation (OR: 0.59; 0.36–0.94), higher in those with initial intracranial involvement (OR: 2.35; 1.45–3.80). Major bleeding occurred in 19 patients (2.9%; 1.9–4.5%), and 26 died (4.0%; 2.7–5.8%). Clinical sequelae were reported in 65 (10.4%, 8.2–13.0%) individuals, often consisting of cranial nerve palsy (n = 24) and orthopaedic limitations (n = 19).

Conclusions

Patients with Lemierre syndrome were characterized by a substantial risk of new thromboembolic complications and death. This risk was higher in the presence of initial intracranial involvement. One‐tenth of survivors suffered major clinical sequelae.
Genetic and phenotypic characterization of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. maculifoliigardeniae causing bacterial leaf spot of Ixora in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Ying‐Ru , Lee Shin , Lu Chih‐Hung , Chu Chia‐Ching
Published: May 2020

Ixora spp. are Rubiaceae plants commonly planted as hedges or potted flower. Recently, incidents of bacterial leaf spot of Ixora were observed in central parts of Taiwan. Previous research on the disease has been scarce and focused mainly on its diagnosis. Therefore, many characteristics of the causal agent remain unclear. The present study aims to improve our understanding of this lesser‐characterized pathogen and provide information useful for its identification and management. Bacterial strains Ixo1, Ixo2 and Ixo3 were isolated from infected Ixora x westii. All three isolates were able to grow and induce leaf spot symptoms on Ixora. They also exhibited morphological and physiological characteristics typical of Xanthomonads. Biolog analysis indicated that Ixo1 to Ixo3 have metabolic fingerprints similar to X. axonopodis pv. poinsettiicola. Multilocus sequence analysis and inoculation assays identified Ixo1 to Ixo3 as X. axonopodis pv. maculifoliigardeniae, albeit their gene sequences were very similar to other species/pathovars belonging to the X. euvesicatoria species complex; members of this species complex have different plant hosts, yet share similar housekeeping gene sequences. A semi‐specific PCR assay evaluated in this work was able to differentiate Ixo1 to Ixo3 from bacteria not belonging to the X. euvesicatoria species complex, suggesting that the assay may be used in diagnosing bacterial leaf spot of ixoras. Finally, the sensitivity of the isolated pathogen to multiple commercial pesticides was tested, and the results showed that the bacterium is sensitive to streptomycin + tetracycline (10％ SP), thiophanate methyl + streptomycin (68.8％ WP) and oxolinic acid (20% WP), but more tolerant against copper‐based chemicals. Overall, the findings from this work may facilitate the identification and management of X. axonopodis pv. maculifoliigardeniae.
3D shape analysis of grass silica short cell phytoliths: a new method for fossil classification and analysis of shape evolution
Authors: Gallaher Timothy J. , Akbar Sultan Z. , Klahs Phillip C. , Marvet Claire R. , Senske Ashly M. , Clark Lynn G. , Strömberg Caroline A. E.
Published: May 2020

Fossil grass silica short cell phytoliths (GSSCP) have been used to reconstruct the biogeography of Poaceae, untangle crop domestication history and detect past vegetation shifts. These inferences depend on accurately identifying the clade to which the fossils belong. Patterns of GSSCP shape and size variation across the family have not been established and current classification methods are subjective or based on a 2D view that ignores important 3D shape variation.

Focusing on Poaceae subfamilies Anomochlooideae, Pharoideae, Pueliodieae, Bambusoideae and Oryzoideae, we observed in situ GSSCP to establish their orientation and imaged isolated GSSCP using confocal microscopy to produce 3D models. 3D geometric morphometrics was used to analyze GSSCP shape and size. Classification models were applied to GSSCP from Eocene sediments from Nebraska, USA, and Anatolia, Turkey.

There were significant shape differences between nearly all recognized GSSCP morphotypes and between clades with shared morphotypes. Most of the Eocene GSSCP were classified as woody bamboos with some distinctive Nebraska GSSCP classified as herbaceous bamboos.

3D morphometrics hold great promise for GSSCP classification. It accounts for the complete GSSCP shape, automates size measurements and accommodates the complete range of morphotypes within a single analytical framework.
A multimodel evaluation of the water vapor budget in atmospheric rivers
Authors: Guan Bin , Waliser Duane E. , Ralph F. Martin
Published: May 2020

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are narrow regions of strong horizontal water vapor transport that play important roles in the global water cycle, weather, and hydrology. Motivated by challenges in simulating ARs with state‐of‐the‐art global models, this paper diagnoses model errors with a focus on relative contributions of moisture convergence, evaporation, and precipitation to AR column–integrated water vapor (IWV) budget. Using 20‐year simulations by 24 global weather/climate models, budget terms are calculated for four AR sectors: postfrontal, frontal, prefrontal, and pre‐AR, with biases assessed against two reanalysis products. The results indicate that each sector is unique in terms of the dominant water vapor balance, and that the terms exhibiting the largest intermodel spread are the same terms dominating the water vapor balance in each sector. Overall, simulated bulk AR characteristics (e.g., geometry, frequency, and intensity) are more sensitive to biases in IVT convergence and IWV tendency than to biases in evaporation and precipitation, although evaporation/precipitation biases do affect key AR bulk characteristics in selected sectors. The large intermodel spread (particularly for precipitation) and, in certain cases, discrepancies between the reanalysis references themselves (particularly for precipitation types) highlight the need for observational efforts that target better constraining AR processes in weather/climate models and reanalyses.
Comparison of early and conventional autogenous secondary alveolar bone graft in children with cleft lip and palate: A systematic review
Authors: Pinheiro Fabio Henrique de Sa Leitao , Drummond Robert John , Frota Carolina Martins , Bartzela Theodosia N. , dos Santos Patricia Bittencourt
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The literature is scarce on studies comparing secondary alveolar bone graft (SABG) performed early at approximately 5‐6 years and at the conventional time at 9‐11 years. This systematic literature review(SLR) aimed to compare clinical outcomes after two different timings of SABG in children with unilateral and bilateral cleft lip and palate.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were autogenous iliac grafts and the following study designs: case control, cohort, clinical controlled trial (CCT), randomized CCT (RCCT), and previous SLRs. Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, ProQuest and Google Scholar were the primary databases. Two calibrated examiners worked independently to select the articles. The MINORS evaluation method for surgical non‐RCTs was used to assess for quality.

Results

1,111 articles were retrieved and 19 qualified. Different clinical and radiographic outcomes such as bone level, periodontal status, canine eruption and cleft‐side tooth survival were evaluated by different assessment methods such as CBCT volume, computed tomography, periodontal evaluation, panoramic, intraoral radiographs, and Bergland scale. No RCCT or meta‐analysis was found. None of the studies received the ideal score, which is 16 for non‐comparison studies and 24 for comparison studies.

Conclusion

Methodological variation, lack of standardization for initial cleft dimension and low‐quality level rendered a fair comparison unfeasible. Although further studies are necessary, it can be assumed that early SABG also can be an acceptable option, but this was based on a single study with a reasonable level of evidence.
People and things
Authors: Liu Qiping
Published: May 2020

Amy Tan and Virginia Woolf question the issue of space and identity in their works by means of the depiction of female characters’ interaction with things in different spatial forms. Besides this common concern, they shared an acquaintance with modern Western thought and, due to family background and relation to family and friends, they also took a keen interest in Chinese culture. This mindset not only enhances the comparability of their works, but also invites readers to consider how the subject–object relation could be rethought in their works. In Tan’s The Kitchen God’s Wife and Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway, female characters actively interact with things, a concept reinterpreted by Bill Brown in his “thing theory” to decentralize human beings. Looking at the two works in terms of new materialism, spatial theories, and ecofeminism, this paper will illustrate how things affect female characters’ search for identity and their relation with their environment so as to redefine the relations between humans and things, between nature and culture, and between individuals and their environment.
Successful cryoablation of left ventricular summit premature ventricular contractions via the coronary sinus
Authors: Reichert William , Ahmad Zeshan , Su Wilber
Published: May 2020

The left ventricular summit (LVS) is a challenging location for catheter‐based percutaneous ablation due to its anatomical location. There have been case reports of cryoablations performed in this region, but the technique may be underutilized when radiofrequency ablation fails. A 45‐year‐old male was found to have 25 000 premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) a day despite previous ablation and a reduced ejection fraction of 40% despite medical therapy. Coronary sinus epicardial mapping revealed the coronary sinus distal region generated activations earlier than the QRS onset by 28 ms. Two separate, 4‐minute cryoablations were delivered that suppressed the PVCs within 5 seconds. Alternate energy modalities such as cryo may offer a safer and more viable approach for ablation of LVS in select patients.
The two copies of the zinc and cadmiumZIP6transporter ofArabidopsis hallerihave distinct effects on cadmium tolerance
Authors: Spielmann Julien , Ahmadi Hassan , Scheepers Maxime , Weber Michael , Nitsche Sarah , Carnol Monique , Bosman Bernard , Kroymann Juergen , Motte Patrick , Clemens Stephan , Hanikenne Marc
Published: May 2020

Plants have the ability to colonize highly diverse environments. The zinc and cadmium hyperaccumulatorArabidopsis hallerihas adapted to establish populations on soils covering an extreme range of metal availabilities. TheA. halleri ZIP6gene presents several hallmarks of hyperaccumulation candidate genes: it is constitutively highly expressed in roots and shoots and is associated with a zinc accumulation quantitative trait locus. Here, we show thatAhZIP6is duplicated in theA. hallerigenome. The two copies are expressed mainly in the vasculature in bothA. halleriandArabidopsis thaliana, indicative of conservedcisregulation, and acquired partial organ specialization. Yeast complementation assays determined that AhZIP6 is a zinc and cadmium transporter.AhZIP6silencing inA. hallerior expression inA. thalianaalters cadmium tolerance, but has no impact on zinc and cadmium accumulation.AhZIP6‐silenced plants display reduced cadmium uptake upon short‐term exposure, adding AhZIP6 to the limited number of Cd transporters supported byin plantaevidence. Altogether, our data suggest that AhZIP6 is key to fine‐tune metal homeostasis in specific cell types. This study additionally highlights the distinct fates of duplicated genes inA. halleri.
Association between serum folate levels and schizophrenia based on sex
Authors: Tomioka Yukiko , Kinoshita Makoto , Umehara Hidehiro , Nakayama Tomohiko , Watanabe Shin‐ya , Nakataki Masahito , Numata Shusuke , Ohmori Tetsuro
Published: May 2020

Aim

Sex differences in serum folate concentrations are well known, but no studies have investigated the association between serum folate levels and schizophrenia based on sex. With this study in a Japanese population, we examined the difference in serum folate levels between patients with schizophrenia and non‐psychiatric controls stratified by sex. The relations among serum folate levels, plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), and serum vitamin B6 (pyridoxal) levels were also examined using data from our previous studies.

Methods

The serum folate concentrations of 482 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and 1350 non‐psychiatric control subjects were measured. We conducted an analysis of covariance to examine the differences in serum folate levels between the two groups based on sex. Spearman's rank correlation was used to evaluate the relations among folate, tHcy, and vitamin B6 levels.

Results

In the control group, serum folate concentrations were higher in women than in men. Lower levels of serum folate were observed in both male and female patients with schizophrenia. An inverse correlation between serum folate and plasma tHcy and a weak positive correlation between serum folate and vitamin B6 were observed in the combined cohort.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that: (i) a low serum folate level may be associated with schizophrenia regardless of sex; and (ii) folate administration may be beneficial for the treatment of schizophrenia. In schizophrenic patients with low serum folate levels, folate administration might result in improvements in high tHcy and an increase in low vitamin B6 levels.