bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the paradigm shift in education in the twenty-first century
Authors: Rodney Basiyr D.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse the potential impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on education. IoT is more than just novel educational arrangements with new technology and networked computing devices. Taking a systems design perspective, the author argues that IoT represents a paradigm shift in the key drivers of education systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a conceptual analysis based on the systems thinking framework. The paper relies on a literature review as informed by prior studies in the field, social media analysis and research database articles of IoT in education.

Findings

The paper finds that systems thinking is a useful framework for examining IoT in education. It finds that writers on IoT in education use a number of lenses at looking at how IoT will affect education. All of these can be refined. Findings suggest that IoT technology has the potential to impact how education systems are reimagined and redesigned; that logistics of educational management and the design of learning facilities can become more responsive to student learning needs because of IoT technology; and instructional delivery systems will be reconstituted by IoT technology. This study is of most value to educators, administrators and information systems professionals. Industries of focus include K-12 education, higher education and specialized training fields.

Research limitations/implications

The research is a conceptual analysis based on social media content and research studies. This is a new line of inquiry; therefore, the sources and data rapidly change.

Practical implications

The study is practical for educational policymakers and educators to plan for the shift in modes of instructional design, curriculum development and school leadership and organization.

Social implications

The research will inform the basis for new educational and schooling arrangements; IoT will change the way all of us learn and engage with learning activities.

Originality/value

The paper is highly original and very valuable for education policymakers as well as educators at all levels.
Blockchain and maritime supply-chain performance: dynamic capabilities perspective
Authors: Lambourdiere Eric , Corbin Elsa
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Maritime supply chains rely on electronic and paper-based processes, leading to efficiency bottlenecks. The purpose of this paper is to propose a theory for how implementing digitalization in the form of blockchain technology (BCT) can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of maritime supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper is grounded in dynamic capabilities, supply-chain management and digital supply-chain theories. Relevant literature is scrutinized to explain how BCT can improve supply-chain performance.

Findings

BCT mainly benefits supply-chain performance through the development of intangible capabilities, by leveraging the capabilities (resources) that maritime supply chains provide.

Research limitations/implications

This framework sets an analytical basis for future empirical research on BCT and maritime supply chains. As such, it can give only indications and aid in the theory-building process. Discussion on the value and effects of BCT on maritime supply chains is ongoing. Finally, the framework focuses on the application of one information technology in managing logistics activities, rather than taking a bundling approach.

Practical implications

Investments in digitalization improve the overall information sharing, coordination and visibility capabilities and performances of supply chains.

Originality/value

Although literature on BCT is extensive, this framework paper is the first to link BCT with dynamics capabilities and maritime supply-chain theory and will serve as a road map for future research and practice.
Effect of spray‐drying parameters on the solubility and the bulk density of camel milk powder: A response surface methodology approach
Authors: Zouari Ahmed , Mtibaa Islem , Triki Mehdi , Jridi Mourad , Zidi Donia , Attia Hamadi , Ayadi Mohamed Ali
Published: February 2020

Response surface methodology coupled with a Box–Behnken experimental design was used to investigate the effect of the air inlet drying temperature, the feed rate, and the fat content on the solubility and the bulk density of spray‐dried camel and cow milk powders. The response surface methodology analysis highlighted that milk fat content and feed rate were the most effective parameters affecting the solubility and the bulk density of cow and camel milk powders. Importantly, there was no significant interaction between the studied drying parameters and camel milk powder solubility or bulk density. Overall, camel milk powder exhibited a comparable solubility to that of cow milk powder with a higher bulk density.
The Characteristics and Effectiveness of Interventions for Frequent Emergency Department Utilizing Patients With Chronic Noncancer Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wong Charles K. , O'Rielly Connor M. , Teitge Braden D. , Sutherland Robert L. , Farquharson Scott , Ghosh Monty , Robertson Helen L. , Lang Eddy
Published: February 2020

Background

Patients with chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) present unique challenges to emergency department (ED) care providers and administrators. Their conditions lead to frequent ED visits for pain relief and symptom management and are often poorly addressed with costly, low‐yield care. A systematic review has not been performed to inform the management of frequent ED utilizing patients with CNCP. Therefore, we synthesized the available evidence on interventional strategies to improve care‐associated outcomes for this patient group.

Methods

We searched Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, SCOPUS, and Web of Science from database inception to June 2018 for eligible interventional studies aimed at reducing frequent ED utilization among adult patients with CNCP. Articles were assessed in duplicate in accordance with methodologic recommendations from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Outcomes of interest were the frequency of subsequent ED visits, type and amount of opioids administered in the ED and prescribed at discharge, and costs. Methodologic quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non‐Randomized Studies of Interventions and Risk of Bias tools for nonrandomized and randomized studies, respectively.

Results

Thirteen studies including 1,679 patients met the inclusion criteria. Identified interventions implemented pain policies (n = 4), individualized care plans (n = 5), ED care coordination (n = 2), chronic pain management pathways (n = 1), and behavioral health interventions (n = 1). All of the studies reported a decrease in ED visit frequency following their respective interventions. These reductions were especially pronounced in studies whose interventions were focused around individualized care plans and primary care involvement. Interventions implementing opioid restriction and pain management policies were largely successful in reducing the amounts of opioid medications administered and prescribed in the ED.

Conclusions

Multifaceted interventions, especially those employing individualized care plans, can successfully reduce subsequent ED visits, ED opioid administration and prescription, and care‐associated costs for frequent ED utilizing patients with CNCP.
Cervical dilation at the time of epidural catheter insertion is not associated with the degree of prolongation of the first or second stages of labor, or the rate of instrumental vaginal delivery
Authors: Lipschuetz Michal , Nir Eshel A. , Cohen Sarah M. , Guedalia Joshua , Hochler Hila , Amsalem Hagai , Karavani Gilad , Hochner‐Celnikier Drorith , Unger Ron , Yagel Simcha
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Epidural analgesia (EA) is an established option for efficient intrapartum analgesia. Meta‐analyses have shown that EA differentially affects the first stage of labor but prolongs the second. The question of EA timing remains open. We aimed to investigate whether EA prolongs delivery in total and whether the EA administration timing vis‐à‐vis cervical dilation at catheter insertion is associated with a modulation of its effects on the duration of the first and second stages, as well as the rate of instrumental vaginal delivery in primiparas and multiparas.

Material and methods

A retrospective electronic medical records‐based study of 18 870 singleton term deliveries occurring in our institution from 2003 to 2015. Cervical dilation was determined within a half‐hour of EA administration. We examined whether cervical dilation at EA administration correlated with the duration of the first and/or second stage, with the rate of prolonged second stage, and with the rate of interventional delivery. The study group was stratified to 10 subgroups defined by 1‐cm intervals of cervical dilation at EA administration. Logistic regression modeling was applied to analyze the association between EA timing and rate of instrumental delivery while controlling for possible confounders.

Results

In primiparas, receiving EA correlated with longer medians of active first stage (+51 minutes; P < .001) and second stage (+55 minutes; P < .001). In multiparas, median increases in active first stage (+43 minutes; P < .001) and second stage (+8 minutes; P < .001) were noted. The timing of EA, vis‐à‐vis cervical dilation (1‐10 cm) was not associated with a substantial modulation of these effects. Logistic regression showed that cervical dilation at EA was not associated with a higher instrumental vaginal delivery rate.

Conclusions

Epidural analgesia prolonged the first and second stages of labor vs no epidural. Having EA was associated with a higher instrumental delivery rate but not with higher rates of maternal or neonatal complications, in primi‐ and multiparas. Importantly, the timing of EA, vis‐à‐vis cervical dilation, was not associated with substantial changes in the duration of labor stages or the instrumental delivery rate. Thus, EA may be offered early in the first stage of labor.
Relationships among retinal/choroidal thickness, retinal microvascular network and visual field in high myopia
Authors: Wu Qiuyan , Chen Qi , Lin Bing , Huang Shenghai , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Lingmin , Lin Huiling , Wang Jianhua , Lu Fan , Shen Meixiao
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To determine the relationships among retinal/choroidal thickness, retinal microvascular network and visual field in high myopia.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included a total of 62 subjects, comprising 31 eyes with high myopia and 31 eyes with emmetropia or low myopia. Optical coherence tomography was used to quantify the thickness of ganglion cell complex (GCC), inner nuclear layer and outer plexiform layer (INOPL), outer retinal layer (ORL) and choroid layer (ChL). Optical coherence tomography angiography was used to quantify the superficial vessel density (SVD) and deep vessel density (DVD). Retinal light sensitivity (RLS) was measured by microperimetry‐1 (MP1). The inner ring (1–1.75 mm), the outer ring (1.75–2.5 mm) and the whole ring (1–2.5 mm) around the macula were analysed and compared between the two groups. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to analyse the relationship among them.

Results

In the highly myopic group, the thinning of retinal/choroidal thickness and the decrease in retinal vessel density and RLS were found when compared to the emmetropia or low myopia (p < 0.05). Decreased RLS was correlated with decreased ORL thickness (r = −0.469, p = 0.008) and choroid thickness (r = 0.398, p = 0.030). There was no correlation between retinal microvascular network parameters and RLS (p > 0.05), but DVD showed a negative correlation with ORL (r = −0.474, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Early visual field defects in highly myopic eyes may be influenced by the ORL loss and defect of choroidal circulation. The deep retinal microvascular network may have a compensatory action in the hypoxic setting of high myopia.
Predictive impact of circulating microRNA‐193a‐5p on early relapse after autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Park Sung‐Soo , Lim Ji‐Young , Kim Tae Woo , Ko Yoon Ho , Jeon Wan‐Jin , Lee So‐Young , Lee Jae‐Hoon , Min Chang‐Ki
Published: February 2020

We explored prognostic roles of circulating microRNAs (miRs) in multiple myeloma (MM) treated with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) following induction chemotherapy. In part I of the study (n = 40), we identified a decreasing dynamics of circulating miR‐193a‐5p expression from diagnosis to pre‐ASCT. In patients who experienced early relapse within one year post ASCT (n = 9) these patterns were distinctive compared to those without early relapse in a 1:2 matched cohort (n = 18). In part II (n = 90), multivariate analyses showed that the International Staging System score and miR‐193a‐5p expression before ASCT were independent prognostic factors. Conclusively, expression of circulating miR‐193a‐5p before ASCT could be a prognostic biomarker for transplant‐eligible MM.
Improved survival for adolescents and young adults with Hodgkin lymphoma and continued high survival for children in the Netherlands: a population‐based study during 1990–2015
Authors: Reedijk Ardine M. J. , Zijtregtop Eline A. M. , Coebergh Jan Willem W. , Meyer‐Wentrup Friederike A. G. , Hebeda Konnie M. , Zwaan C. Michel , Janssens Geert O. R. , Pieters Rob , Plattel Wouter J. , Dinmohamed Avinash G. , Zijlstra Josée M. , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Lugtenburg Pieternella J. , Beishuizen Auke , Karim‐Kos Henrike E.
Published: February 2020

Population‐based studies that assess long‐term patterns of incidence, major aspects of treatment and survival are virtually lacking for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) at a younger age. This study assessed the progress made for young patients with HL (<25 years at diagnosis) in the Netherlands during 1990–2015. Patient and tumour characteristics were extracted from the population‐based Netherlands Cancer Registry. Time trends in incidence and mortality rates were evaluated with average annual percentage change (AAPC) analyses. Stage at diagnosis, initial treatments and site of treatment were studied in relation to observed overall survival (OS). A total of 2619 patients with HL were diagnosed between 1990 and 2015. Incidence rates increased for 18–24‐year‐old patients (AAPC + 1%, P = 0·01) only. Treatment regimens changed into less radiotherapy and more ‘chemotherapy only’, different for age group and stage. Patients aged 15–17 years were increasingly treated at a paediatric oncology centre. The 5‐year OS for children was already high in the early 1990s (93%). For patients aged 15–17 and 18–24 years the 5‐year OS improved from 84% and 90% in 1990–1994 to 96% and 97% in 2010–2015, respectively. Survival for patients aged 15–17 years was not affected by site of treatment. Our present data demonstrate that significant progress in HL treatment has been made in the Netherlands since 1990.
RNF8 promotes efficient DSB repair by inhibiting the pro‐apoptotic activity of p53 through regulating the function of Tip60
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Shan Jin , Liu Jialing , Feng Yunpeng , Ke Yueshuang , Qi Wenjing , Liu Wenguang , Zeng Xianlu
Published: February 2020

Objectives

RING finger protein 8 (RNF8) is an E3 ligase that plays an essential role in DSB repair. p53 is a well‐established tumour suppressor and cellular gatekeeper of genome stability. This study aimed at investigating the functional correlations between RNF8 and p53 in DSB damage repair.

Materials and methods

In this article, wild‐type, knockout and shRNA‐depleted HCT116 and U2OS cells were stressed, and the roles of RNF8 and p53 were examined. RT‐PCR and Western blot were utilized to investigate the expression of related genes in damaged cells. Cell proliferation, apoptosis and neutral cell comet assays were applied to determine the effects of DSB damage on differently treated cells. DR‐GFP, EJ5‐GFP and LacI‐LacO targeting systems, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, IP, IF, GST pull‐down assay were used to explore the molecular mechanism of RNF8 and p53 in DSB damage repair.

Results

We found that RNF8 knockdown increased cellular sensitivity to DSB damage and decreased cell proliferation, which was correlated with high expression of the p53 gene. RNF8 improved the efficiency of DSB repair by inhibiting the pro‐apoptotic function of p53. We also found that RNF8 restrains cell apoptosis by inhibiting over‐activation of ATM and subsequently reducing p53 acetylation at K120 through regulating Tip60.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings suggested that RNF8 promotes efficient DSB repair by inhibiting the pro‐apoptotic activity of p53 through regulating the function of Tip60.
Hypothermic machine perfusion is superior to static cold storage in deceased donor kidney transplantation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tingle Samuel J. , Figueiredo Rodrigo S. , Moir John AG. , Goodfellow Michael , Thompson Emily R. , Ibrahim Ibrahim K. , Bates Lucy , Talbot David , Wilson Colin H.
Published: February 2020

Background

There remains a lack of consensus on the optimal storage method for deceased donor kidneys. This meta‐analysis compares storage with hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) vs traditional static cold storage (SCS).

Methods

The Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Specialised Register was searched to identify (quasi‐) randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to include in our meta‐analysis. PRISMA guidelines were used to perform and write this review.

Results

There is high‐certainty evidence that HMP reduces the risk of delayed graft function (DGF) when compared to SCS (2138 participants from 14 studies, RR = 0.77; 0.67‐0.90, P = .0006). This benefit is significant in both donation following circulatory death (DCD; 772 patients from seven studies, RR = 0.75; 0.64‐0.87, P = .0002) and donation following brainstem death (DBD) grafts (971 patients from four studies, RR = 0.78; 0.65‐0.93, P = .006). The number of perfusions required to prevent one episode of DGF was 7.26 and 13.60 in DCD and DBD grafts, respectively. There is strong evidence that HMP also improves graft survival in both DBD and DCD grafts, at both 1 and 3 years. Economic analyses suggest HMP is cost‐saving at 1 year compared with SCS.

Conclusion

Hypothermic machine perfusion is superior to SCS in deceased donor renal transplantation. Direct comparisons with normothermic machine perfusion in RCTs are essential to identify optimal preservation methods in kidney transplantation.
Validating patient prioritization in the 2018 Revised United Network for Organ Sharing Heart Allocation System: A single‐center experience
Authors: Nayak Aditi , Dong Tiffany , Ko Yi‐An , Chesnut Neile , Pekarek Ann , Cole Robert T. , Bhatt Kunal , Gupta Divya , Burke Michael A. , Laskar S. Raja , Attia Tamer , Smith Andrew L. , Vega J. David , Morris Alanna A.
Published: February 2020

The 2018 Revised United Network for Organ Sharing Heart Allocation System (HAS) was proposed to reclassify status 1A candidates into groups of decreasing acuity; however, it does not take into account factors such as body mass index (BMI) and blood group which influence waitlist (WL) outcomes. We sought to validate patient prioritization in the new HAS at our center. We retrospectively evaluated patients listed for heart transplantation (n = 214) at Emory University Hospital from 2011 to 2017. Patients were reclassified into the 6‐tier HAS. Multistate modeling and competing risk analysis were used to compare outcomes of transplantation and WL death/deterioration between new tiers. Additionally, a stratified sensitivity analysis by BMI and blood group was performed. Compared with tier 4 patients, there was progressively increasing hazard of WL death/deterioration in tier 3 (HR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.37‐4.63, P = .003) and tier 2 (HR: 5.03, 95% CI: 1.99‐12.70, P < .001), without a difference in transplantation outcome. When stratified by BMI and blood group, this hierarchical association was not valid in patients with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 and non‐O blood groups in our cohort. Therefore, the 2018 HAS accurately prioritizes the sickest patients in our cohort. Factors such as BMI and blood group influence this relationship and iterate that the system can be further refined.
Perception of alarm cues influences the outcome of shelter competition in crayfish20
Authors: Driscoll Joshua , Kola Michael , Mathews Lauren
Published: February 2020

The effects of predators on prey populations may significantly alter many aspects of prey biology, including spatial distribution, foraging activities, and social interactions. In aquatic habitats, chemosensation is an important mode of communication and has been shown for many taxa, including crayfish, to be used in detection of predator and/or conspecific alarm cues. Here, we report on an experiment to test the hypothesis that detection of alarm cues results in greater individual investment in contests over shelters. We tested this hypothesis through dyadic contests between sex‐ and size‐matched, non‐reproductive individuals of Faxonius virilis. We found that crayfish responded to exposure to alarm cues by spending more time inside a shelter. We also report that in contests between pairs in which one crayfish had been exposed to alarm cues and the other had not, exposed individuals were significantly more likely to win ownership of a single shelter. However, we did not detect any differences in the contest parameters we recorded between exposed and unexposed crayfish. These impacts on both individual and social behavior indicate that the presence of predators is likely to have large effects on the distribution and structure of crayfish populations.
Comparison of selection methods among and within full‐sibling progenies in Urochloa humidicola
Authors: Berchembrock Yasmin Vasques , de Figueiredo Ulisses José , Nunes José Airton Rodrigues , do Valle Cacilda Borges , Barrios Sanzio Carvalho Lima
Published: February 2020

Hybridization in the Urochloa humidicola breeding programme allowed to explore the genetic variability of the apomictic sources and, thus, to obtain new sexual and apomictic parents with compatible ploidy and/or superior progenies. However, given the high variability arising from crosses, there is a need to adopt efficient selection strategies among and within progenies. The aim of this study was to compare the selection methods among U. humidicola progenies with (t‐BLUP) and without (BLUP) the weighting based on prediction error and subsequent selection within progenies by individual simulated (BLUPIS) or optimal individual BLUP. We evaluated seventy‐one U. humidicola full‐sib progenies from biparental crosses between nine sexual and ten apomictic parents. The experiment was set up in an incomplete block design with 64 blocks of 15 plots each, consisting of individual plants. Seven consecutive cuts were made and the traits total dry‐matter, leaf dry‐matter and regrowth scores were measured. Genetic variance was expressive for all traits. The selection procedure among progenies of U. humidicula based on t‐BLUP proved to be more advantageous regarding the use of BLUP not weighted by the prediction error, resulting in higher selection gains, taking as reference the optimal procedure of the individual BLUP. Furthermore, the use of BLUPIS allowed an optimized selection of hybrids, allowing the breeder to explore with variable selection intensity the genetic variability within the selected full‐sib progenies based on relative genetic merit.
Understanding the pain profile in patients with haemophilia: Impaired descending pain inhibition as measured by conditioned pain modulation
Authors: Krüger Steffen , Hilberg Thomas
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Haemophilic arthropathy is associated with pain that often becomes chronic, likely caused by peripheral and central mechanisms. In the field of haemophilia, to our knowledge, the role of the descending pain pathway, which can also be involved in these pain processes, has not been examined to date.

Aim

In light of the dearth of existing literature, we sought to evaluate the function of endogenous descending pain modulation in patients with haemophilia.

Methods

Thirty adult patients with moderate to severe haemophilia A or B (median [interquartile range] age 51.0 [42.0‐54.0]) and 23 healthy adult controls (age 46.5 [36.8‐54.3]) underwent conditioned pain modulation (CPM) in order to examine the function of endogenous pain modulation. The CPM response was determined by scoring a test stimulus (heat) alone as well as under the influence of a conditioning stimulus (cold) on the basis of a numeric rating scale (NRS) (0 = ‘no pain’ to 100 = ‘worst possible pain’).

Results

Patients with haemophilia demonstrated a statistically significant reduced CPM response when compared with the age‐matched healthy controls (median (interquartile range) NRS score: patients: −10 (−17.5‐[−7.5]) vs controls: −20 (−30.0‐[−13.75]); P = .002). The determined difference in the CPM response between both cohorts showed a medium effect size of r = .433.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that an impaired degree of endogenous pain modulation could be present in patients with haemophilia. Therefore, the function of the descending pain pathway should be considered regarding an individual and comprehensive pain management.
Pressing Issues Among Trainees and Early Career Physicians in Headache Medicine: Survey Results From the American Headache Society New Investigator and Trainee Section and International Headache Academy
Authors: VanderPluym Juliana H. , Mead‐Harvey Carolyn , Starling Amaal J.
Published: February 2020

Objective

We surveyed the American Headache Society (AHS) New Investigators and Trainees Section (NITS), and International Headache Academy (IHA) attendees to better understand what they perceive as the most pressing issues for themselves as new investigators and trainees in the field of headache medicine.

Background

The NITS and IHA are intended as platforms for mentorship, leadership training, and professional development in the field of headache medicine. Identifying and addressing pressing issues among new investigators and trainees based on their perceived needs is critical to encouraging their development and success as headache medicine clinicians and researchers.

Methods

Paper surveys were administered at the NITS meeting at the November 2018 Scottsdale Headache Symposium and the January 2019 IHA. Additionally an online version was sent to the NIT listserv in November of 2018. The survey queried demographic information (gender, race, age, profession, training status, and years in practice) and asked participants to identify their top 3 most pressing issues/questions among a list of options.

Results

Fifty‐three responses were submitted (53/255; total response rate 20.7%). Among the surveys, 18 in‐person responses were from the NITS meeting (18/20; response rate 90.0%), 23 in‐person responses were from the IHA (23/45; response rate 51.1%), and 12 responses were from the online survey (12/190; response rate 6.3%). No duplicate responses were submitted based on comparison of demographics. One respondent identified as a researcher exclusively and was excluded from further analyses; the rest identified as clinicians at various levels of medical training. Fifteen respondents were not members of the NITS (28.8%); the most common reason for nonmembership was lack of awareness of the section (92.8%). Overall the most pressing issues/questions included (% of respondents who ranked issue/question among top 3): Career planning (51.9%), Logistics of running a headache clinic (40.4%), and Opportunities for involvement (38.5%). Most pressing issues/questions differed depending on level of training. Working with industry was the most pressing issue/question identified by early career physicians (55.0%). Career planning was the most pressing issue/question among fellows (72.2%) and residents (64.3%).

Conclusion

Many of the most pressing issues identified by respondents are topics that are not formally addressed in medical and research training.
Hydrostatic pressure influence on electric relaxation response of bismuth manganite ceramics
Authors: Szeremeta Anna Z. , Pawlus Sebastian , Nowok Andrzej , Grzybowska Katarzyna , Zubko Maciej , Molak Andrzej
Published: February 2020

Electrical impedance of bismuth manganite ceramics was studied under ambient and high hydrostatic pressure. Local disorder of crystal lattice was confirmed using XRD and DSC. Two relaxation processes were discerned. One was attributed to small polarons, which showed a changeover from variable range hopping features related to Fermi glass and structural disorder to the nearest neighbor hopping behavior in higher temperature range related to uniform distribution of energy levels. Hydrostatic pressure shortened relaxation times that would be interesting for applications. The second process, which was assigned to the nearest neighbor hopping of polarons, also exhibited a changeover to glassy features in a high‐temperature range.
Modelling individual, parental and peer factors to glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes: A prospective study
Authors: Lee Shu‐Li , Tsai Meng‐Che , Chang Shu‐Chen , Chen Jyu‐Lin , Wang Ruey‐Hsia
Published: February 2020

Aim

To construct a model addressing the pathways from baseline diabetes distress, attribution of peer reactions, parenting style and 3‐month self‐management to 6‐month glycated haemoglobin levels in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Design

A prospective design was adopted.

Methods

A total of 177 adolescents aged 10–19 with type 1 diabetes were enrolled from four hospitals in Taiwan. Diabetes distress, attribution of peer reactions and parenting style were collected at baseline, self‐management was collected at the third month and glycated haemoglobin levels were collected at the sixth month. Data were collected from May 2015–June 2016.

Results

Baseline diabetes distress and 3‐month self‐management directly affected 6‐month glycated haemoglobin levels. Baseline attribution of peer reactions directly affected baseline diabetes distress and 3‐month self‐management; also, it indirectly affected 6‐month glycated haemoglobin levels through 3‐month self‐management. Baseline parenting style directly affected baseline diabetes distress, baseline attribution of peer reactions, 3‐month self‐management and 6‐month glycated haemoglobin levels; it also indirectly affected 6‐month glycated haemoglobin levels through baseline diabetes distress and 3‐month self‐management.

Conclusion

A model simultaneously incorporating individual, parental and peer factors to glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes has been constructed. Improving diabetes distress and self‐management should be essential strategies to improve glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Encouraging adolescents with type 1 diabetes to communicate openly with peers about diabetes care and educating their parents to provide more responsive and autonomy‐encouraging parenting style might be vital strategies to improve diabetes distress, 3‐month self‐management and glycaemic control.

Impact

Individual, parental and peer factors should be simultaneously considered to improve glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Nurses should evaluate these factors to tailor interventions improving glycaemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
Integration of genome‐wide association study and expression quantitative trait loci data identifies AIM2 as a risk gene of periodontitis
Authors: Li Wenjing , Zheng Qiwen , Meng Huanxin , Chen Dafang
Published: February 2020

Aim

To identify risk variants associated with gene expression in peripheral blood and to identify genes whose expression change may contribute to the susceptibility to periodontitis.

Material and Methods

We systematically integrated the genetic associations from a recent large‐scale periodontitis GWAS and blood expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data using Sherlock, a Bayesian statistical framework. We then validated the potential causal genes in independent gene expression data sets. Gene co‐expression analysis was used to explore the functional relationship for the identified causal genes.

Results

Sherlock analysis identified 10 genes (rs7403881 for MT1L, rs12459542 for SIGLEC5, rs12459542 for SIGLEC14, rs6680386 for S100A12, rs10489524 for TRIM33, rs11962642 for HIST1H3E, rs2814770 for AIM2, rs7593959 for FASTKD2, rs10416904 for PKN1, and rs10508204 for WDR37) whose expression may influence periodontitis. Among these genes, AIM2 was consistent significantly upregulated in periodontium of periodontitis patients across four data sets. The cis‐eQTL (rs2814770, ~16 kb upstream of AIM2) showed significant association with AIM2 (p = 6.63 × 10–6) and suggestive association with periodontitis (p = 7.52 × 10–4). We also validated the significant association between rs2814770 and AIM2 expression in independent expression data set. Pathway analysis revealed that genes co‐expressed with AIM2 were significantly enriched in immune‐ and inflammation‐related pathways.

Conclusion

Our findings implicate that AIM2 is a susceptibility gene, expression of which in gingiva may influence periodontitis risk. Further functional investigation of AIM2 may provide new insight for periodontitis pathogenesis.
Diagnostic accuracy and interobserver concordance: teledermoscopy of 600 suspicious skin lesions in Southern Denmark
Authors: Vestergaard T. , Prasad S.C. , Schuster A. , Laurinaviciene R. , Andersen M.K. , Bygum A.
Published: February 2020

Background

Skin cancer incidences are increasing and early diagnosis, especially of malignant melanoma, is crucial. Teledermatology including teledermoscopy (TDS) can be used to triage referrals of suspicious skin lesions, however, this is not currently recommended in Denmark.

Objectives

To evaluate diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and interobserver concordance of TDS, and to evaluate the number of incidental lesions potentially missed by TDS.

Methods

Fifty general practices were invited to send images of suspicious skin lesions for evaluation using smartphone TDS. Simultaneously, the patient was referred for a face‐to‐face (FTF) consultation. Images for TDS were independently evaluated by two dermatologists; a third dermatologist performed the FTF consultation. Diagnosis, management plan and level of diagnostic confidence were noted. For TDS photo quality was rated, and for FTF any incidental findings were described.

Results

Six hundred lesions in 519 patients were included. The diagnostic accuracy was significantly higher on FTF evaluation than on TDS (P < 0.01). However, this was associated with a significant difference in specificity (P ≤ 0.012) whereas no significant difference was found in sensitivity. The concordance between FTF and TDS, and the interobserver concordance of two TDS evaluations was moderate to substantial (AC1 = 0.57–0.71). Incidental melanomas were found in 0.6% of patients on FTF evaluation, adding an extra 13% of melanomas. However, on TDS these patients’ photographed lesions all warranted FTF follow‐up, where these melanomas would have been identified.

Conclusion

In this large prospective study, no significant difference in sensitivity was observed between FTF and TDS, but specificity was lower on TDS than FTF. Taking management plans into account, we would, however, potentially have dismissed 2 of 23 melanomas, if only TDS had been used for assessment. One of these was a melanoma located on the scalp, an anatomic region less suitable for TDS.
Alternative evolutionary outcomes following endosymbiont‐mediated selection on male mating preference alleles
Authors: Hundertmark Antje , Goodacre Sara L. , Brookfield John F. Y.
Published: February 2020

In many arthropods, intracellular bacteria, such as those of the genus Wolbachia, may spread through host populations as a result of cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI). Here, there is sterility or reduced fertility in crosses between infected males and uninfected females. As the bacterium is maternally inherited, the reduced fertility of uninfected females increases the frequency of the infection. If the transmission fidelity of the bacterium is less than 100%, the bacterium cannot invade from a low frequency, but if its frequency exceeds a threshold, it increases to a high, stable, equilibrium frequency. We explore the expected evolutionary dynamics of mutant alleles that cause their male bearers to avoid mating with uninfected females. For alleles which create this avoidance behaviour conditional upon the male being infected, there is a wide zone of parameter space that allows the preference allele to drive Wolbachia from the population when it would otherwise stably persist. There is also a wide zone of parameter space that allows a joint stable equilibrium for the Wolbachia and a polymorphism for the preference allele. When the male's avoidance of uninfected females is unconditional, the preference allele's effect on Wolbachia frequency is reduced, but there is a narrow range of values for the transmission rate and CI fertility that allow an unconditional preference allele to drive Wolbachia from the population, in a process driven by positive linkage disequilibrium between Wolbachia and the preference allele. The possibility of the evolution of preference could hamper attempts to manipulate wild populations through Wolbachia introductions.
Astroglial biotin deprivation under endoplasmic reticulum stress uncouples BCAA‐mTORC1 role in lipid synthesis to prolong autophagy inhibition in the aging brain
Authors: Ganesan Dhasarathan , Ramaian Santhaseela Anand , Rajasekaran Sudarshana , Selvam Senthilraja , Jayavelu Tamilselvan
Published: February 2020

Autophagy delays the onset of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by recycling cellular debris. However, the cues that elicit autophagy under the emergence of ER stress and their dysregulation during aging remains obscure. Amino acids, notably branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA), get accumulated in the cells once protein synthesis is inhibited by ER stress. The BCAA mimic satiety to inhibit autophagy via mechanistic targets of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) activation and, in contrast, their catabolism supplements de novo lipogenesis for the formation of autophagosome membranes. Thus promoting BCAA utilization is hypothesized to induce autophagy to alleviate ER stress. Nevertheless, except protein synthesis, the rest of BCAA utilization and lipogenesis depends on the co‐enzyme biotin. Hence, the levels of biotinylated carboxylases and lipids were assessed in the aging brain of Wistar rats. Despite the increased levels of biotinylated carboxylases and lipids, the aging brain accumulates BCAA. Since astrocytes are the primary site of BCAA and lipid metabolism and the increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) denotes astroglial ER stress, co‐localization studies were performed to determine the extent of biotinylation in GFAP positive cells. Although total biotin intensity was higher in aged brain slices, the astrocytes specific decrease in biotinylation is attributed to BCAA accumulation, mTORC1 overactivation, autophagy inhibition, and ER stress in the aging brain. The ER stress in primary astrocytes using tunicamycin also mimic the in vivo phenotype. Biotin supplementation ameliorated the changes observed in vitro, corroborating the significance of astrocytes biotin availability to promote autophagy under ER stress in aging.

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Influence of retinal NMDA receptor activity during autoimmune optic neuritis
Authors: Bojcevski Jovana , Stojic Aleksandar , Hoffmann Dorit B. , Williams Sarah K. , Müller Andreas , Diem Ricarda , Fairless Richard
Published: February 2020

Autoimmune optic neuritis (AON), a model of multiple sclerosis‐associated optic neuritis, is accompanied by degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve demyelination and axonal loss. In order to investigate the role of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in mediating RGC degeneration, upstream changes in the optic nerve actin cytoskeleton and associated deterioration in visual function, we induced AON in Brown Norway rats by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein. Subsequently, visual acuity was assessed by recording visual evoked potentials and electroretinograms prior to extraction of optic nerves for western blot analysis and retinas for quantification of RGCs. As previously reported, in Brown Norway rats RGC degeneration is observed prior to onset of immune cell infiltration and demyelination of the optic nerves. However, within the optic nerve, destabilization of the actin cytoskeleton could be seen as indicated by an increase in the globular to filamentous actin ratio. Interestingly, these changes could be mimicked by intravitreal injection of glutamate, and similarly blocked by application of the NMDA receptor blocker MK‐801, leading us to propose that prior to optic nerve lesion formation, NMDA receptor activation within the retina leads to retinal calcium accumulation, actin destabilization within the optic nerve as well as a deterioration of visual acuity during AON.

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Establishing the Omics Nursing Science & Education Network
Authors: Tully Lois A. , Calzone Kathleen A. , Cashion Ann K.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To establish a website to advance nursing research and education involving omics technologies and methodologies through facilitating collaborations, use of existing data and samples, mentoring, and access to training opportunities.

Methods

The Omics Nursing Science & Education Network (ONSEN) website was established following identification of gaps in omics nursing infrastructure and resources that could be addressed via a concerted, collaborative effort. ONSEN content was created using input from a workgroup of experts in genomics and other omics, education, practice, and nursing research. Alpha testing was conducted with workgroup members, followed by website refinements and enhancements, and subsequent beta testing by potential end users. ONSEN was launched in August 2018.

Findings

ONSEN has three main sections. The Education and Training section provides information on mentoring and pre‐ or postdoctoral opportunities in addition to a knowledge matrix to advance education and skills in genomic nursing science. The Research Collaborations section promotes awareness of ongoing omics nursing research in order to foster collaborations and sharing of samples or data among investigators with programs in omics nursing research or an interest in developing such programs. The Common Data Elements (CDE) section provides information on the benefits of incorporating CDEs into nursing science as well as links to National Institutes of Health resources to facilitate use of CDEs.

Conclusions

ONSEN provides opportunities for nurse scientists and trainees to leverage samples and datasets, locate mentors and pre‐ or postdoctoral positions, further the use of CDEs, and enhance education and skills for integrating omics into nursing science.

Clinical Relevance

Advancing omics nursing science via ONSEN resources will accelerate the elucidation of the molecular underpinnings of disease and associated symptoms as well as inform the development of rapidly translatable, personalized intervention strategies, grounded in biological mechanisms, for improved health outcomes across populations and the lifespan.
Granuloma annulare after Botulonium toxin A injection: A rare association
Authors: Balighi Kamran , Kamyab Kambiz , Azizpour Arghavan
Published: February 2020

Background

Botulinum toxin is generally considered safe and has been used in constantly expanded cosmetic and therapeutic indications. However, long‐term side effects such as granulomatous reactions have been associated with this drug.

Aims

We aim to evaluate a rare reaction to Botulonium toxin A injection.

Patients/Methods

A 44‐year‐old woman, developed annular plaques eleven months after botulinum toxin A injection for the correction treatment of wrinklesglabellar rhytides.

Results

Histopathological examination revealed granuloma annulare formation. Clinical and biological investigations were negative, ruling out the hypothesis of systemic sarcoidosis. Triamcinolone acetonide injection was followed by a regression of the plaques.

Conclusion

There are previous reports in the literature of sarcoidal and foreign body granuloma at the sites of injection of botulinum toxin A injection. To our knowledge this is the first report of granuloma annulare occurrence after botulinum toxin A injection.
Differences in ultrasound‐derived arterial wall stiffness parameters and noninvasive blood pressure between Friesian horses and Warmblood horses
Authors: Vera Lisse , De Clercq Dominique , Van Steenkiste Glenn , Decloedt Annelies , Chiers Koen , van Loon Gunther
Published: February 2020

Background

Aortic rupture is more common in Friesians compared to Warmbloods, which might be related to differences in arterial wall composition and, as such, arterial wall stiffness (AWS). Currently, nothing is known about differences in AWS between these breeds.

Objectives

Comparison of AWS parameters and noninvasive blood pressure between Friesians and Warmbloods.

Animals

One hundred one healthy Friesians and 101 age‐matched healthy Warmbloods.

Methods

Two‐dimensional and pulsed‐wave Doppler ultrasound examination was performed of the aorta, common carotid artery, and external iliac artery to define local and regional AWS parameters. Regional aortic AWS was estimated using aortic‐to‐external iliac artery pulse wave velocity (PWVa‐e) and carotid‐to‐external iliac artery pulse wave velocity (PWVc‐e). Noninvasive blood pressure and heart rate were recorded simultaneously.

Results

Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure and pulse pressure were significantly higher in Friesians compared to Warmbloods. No significant difference in heart rate was found. Most local AWS parameters (diameter change, compliance coefficient, distensibility coefficient) were significantly lower in Friesians compared to Warmbloods, indicating a stiffer aorta in Friesians. This difference could be confirmed by the regional stiffness parameters. A higher PWVa‐e and PWVc‐e was found in Friesians. For the cranial and caudal common carotid artery and external iliac artery, most local AWS parameters were not significantly different.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Results indicate that aortic AWS differs between Friesian and Warmblood horses. Friesians seem to have a stiffer aorta, which might be related to the higher incidence of aortic rupture in Friesians.
Caring for Indigenous families in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Wright Amy L. , Ballantyne Marilyn , Wahoush Olive
Published: February 2020

Inequitable access to health care, social inequities, and racist and discriminatory care has resulted in the trend toward poorer health outcomes for Indigenous infants and their families when compared to non‐Indigenous families in Canada. How Indigenous mothers experience care during an admission of their infant to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit has implications for future health‐seeking behaviors which may influence infant health outcomes. Nurses are well positioned to promote positive health care interactions and improve health outcomes by effectively meeting the needs of Indigenous families. This qualitative study was guided by interpretive description and the Two‐Eyed Seeing framework and aimed to understand how Indigenous mothers experience accessing and using the health care system for their infants. Data were collected by way of interviews and a discussion group with self‐identifying Indigenous mothers of infants less than two years of age living in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Data underwent thematic analysis, identifying nursing strategies to support positive health care interactions and promote the health and wellness of Indigenous infants and their families. Building relationships, providing holistic care, and taking a trauma‐informed approach to the involvement of child protection services are three key strategies that nurses can use to positively impact health care experiences for Indigenous families.