bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-World Clinical Experience With Idebenone in the Treatment of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Catarino Claudia B. , von Livonius Bettina , Priglinger Claudia , Banik Rudrani , Matloob Selma , Tamhankar Madhura A. , Castillo Lorena , Friedburg Christoph , Halfpenny Christopher A. , Lincoln John A. , Traber Ghislaine L. , Acaroglu Gölge , Black Graeme C. M. , Doncel Carlos , Fraser Clare L. , Jakubaszko Joanna , Landau Klara , Langenegger Stefan J. , Muñoz-Negrete Francisco J. , Newman Nancy J. , Poulton Joanna , Scoppettuolo Elisabetta , Subramanian Prem , Toosy Ahmed T. , Vidal Mariona , Vincent Andrea L. , Votruba Marcela , Zarowski Marcin , Zermansky Adam , Lob Felice , Rudolph Günther , Mikazans Oskars , Silva Magda , Llòria Xavier , Metz Günther , Klopstock Thomas
Published: September 2020

Background:

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) leads to bilateral central vision loss. In a clinical trial setting, idebenone has been shown to be safe and to provide a trend toward improved visual acuity, but long-term evidence of effectiveness in real-world clinical practice is sparse.

Methods:

Open-label, multicenter, retrospective, noncontrolled analysis of long-term visual acuity and safety in 111 LHON patients treated with idebenone (900 mg/day) in an expanded access program. Eligible patients had a confirmed mitochondrial DNA mutation and had experienced the onset of symptoms (most recent eye) within 1 year before enrollment. Data on visual acuity and adverse events were collected as per normal clinical practice. Efficacy was assessed as the proportion of patients with either a clinically relevant recovery (CRR) or a clinically relevant stabilization (CRS) of visual acuity. In the case of CRR, time to and magnitude of recovery over the course of time were also assessed.

Results:

At time of analysis, 87 patients had provided longitudinal efficacy data. Average treatment duration was 25.6 months. CRR was observed in 46.0% of patients. Analysis of treatment effect by duration showed that the proportion of patients with recovery and the magnitude of recovery increased with treatment duration. Average gain in best-corrected visual acuity for responders was 0.72 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR), equivalent to more than 7 lines on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart. Furthermore, 50% of patients who had a visual acuity below 1.0 logMAR in at least one eye at initiation of treatment successfully maintained their vision below this threshold by last observation. Idebenone was well tolerated, with most adverse events classified as minor.

Conclusions:

These data demonstrate the benefit of idebenone treatment in recovering lost vision and maintaining good residual vision in a real-world setting. Together, these findings indicate that idebenone treatment should be initiated early and be maintained more than 24 months to maximize efficacy. Safety results were consistent with the known safety profile of idebenone.
Rodent models for intravascular ischemic cerebral infarction: a review of influencing factors and method optimization
Authors: Tian Ye , Su Gang , Liu Ji-fei , Liu Xiao-yan , Zhou Juan-ping , Chen De-yi , Zhang Zhen-Chang
Published: September 2020

Rodent models for cerebral infarction are useful for studying human focal ischemic cerebral infarction, by simulating etiological and pathophysiological mechanisms. However, differences in the selection of anesthetic drugs, surgical methods and other factors may affect the extent to which preclinical models reflect the human condition. This review summarizes these factors. We searched pertinent literature from the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases, and reviewed differences in rodent strain, anesthesia method, sex, surgical method, timing of surgery, and factors influencing postoperative evaluation. In particular, circadian rhythm was found to have a significant impact on the outcome of cerebral infarction in rodent models. This information will enable researchers to quickly and clearly select appropriate modeling methods, acquire reliable quantitative experimental results, and obtain basic data for fundamental mechanism research.
Chytrid fungi shape bacterial communities on model particulate organic matter
Authors: Roberts Cordelia , Allen Ro , Bird Kimberley E. , Cunliffe Michael
Published: September 2020

Microbial colonization and degradation of particulate organic matter (POM) are important processes that influence the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. Although POM is readily used by aquatic fungi and bacteria, there is a limited understanding of POM-associated interactions between these taxa, particularly for early-diverging fungal lineages. Using a model ecological system with the chitin-degrading freshwater chytrid fungus
Rhizoclosmatium globosum
and chitin microbeads, we assessed the impacts of chytrid fungi on POM-associated bacteria. We show that the presence of chytrids on POM alters concomitant bacterial community diversity and structure, including differing responses between chytrid life stages. We propose that chytrids can act as ecosystem facilitators through saprotrophic feeding by producing ‘public goods’ from POM degradation that modify bacterial POM communities. This study suggests that chytrid fungi have complex ecological roles in aquatic POM degradation not previously considered, including the regulation of bacterial colonization, community succession and subsequent biogeochemical potential.
A shift towards the annual habit in selfing
Arabidopsis lyrata
Authors: Gorman Courtney E. , Steinecke Christina , van Kleunen Mark , Dorken Marcel E. , Stift Marc
Published: September 2020

An annual life history is often associated with the ability to self-fertilize. However, it is unknown whether the evolution of selfing commonly precedes the evolution of annuality, or
vice versa
. Using a 2-year common garden experiment, we asked if the evolution of selfing in the normally perennial
Arabidopsis lyrata
was accompanied by a shift towards the annual habit. Despite their very recent divergence from obligately outcrossing populations, selfing plants exhibited a 39% decrease in over-winter survival after the first year compared with outcrossing plants. Our data ruled out the most obvious underlying mechanism: differences in reproductive investment in the first year did not explain differences in survival. We conclude that transitions to selfing in perennial
A. lyrata
may be accompanied by a shift towards annuality, but drivers of the process require further investigation.
Extensive geographical variation in testes size and ejaculate traits in a terrestrial-breeding frog
Authors: Rudin-Bitterli Tabitha S. , Mitchell Nicola J. , Evans Jonathan P.
Published: September 2020

Ejaculate traits vary extensively among individuals and species, but little is known about their variation among populations of the same species. Here, we investigated patterns of intraspecific variation in male reproductive investment in the terrestrial-breeding frogPseudophryne guentheri. Like most anurans, breeding activity inP. guentheriis cued by precipitation, and therefore the timing and duration of breeding seasons differ among geographically separated populations, potentially leading to differences in the level of sperm competition. We, therefore, anticipated local adaptation in sperm traits that reflect these phenological differences among populations. Our analysis of six natural populations across a rainfall gradient revealed significant divergence in testes and ejaculate traits that correspond with annual rainfall and rainfall seasonality; males from the northern and drier edge of the species range had significantly smaller testes containing fewer, smaller and less motile sperm compared with those from mesic central populations. These findings may reflect spatial variation in the strength of postcopulatory sexual selection, likely driven by local patterns of precipitation.
Enhanced tissue penetration of antibodies through pressurized immunohistochemistry
Authors: Fiorelli Roberto , Sidhu Gurpaul S. , Cebrián-Silla Arantxa , Melendez Ernesto Luna , Mehta Shwetal , Garcia-Verdugo Jose M. , Sanai Nader
Published: September 2020

To address the inefficiency of passive diffusion for antibody penetration in thick tissue samples, which limits clearing-technique applications, we developed a versatile and simple device to perform antibody incubation under increased barometric pressure. Pressurized immunohistochemistry greatly improves the uniformity, intensity, and depth of fluorescent immunostaining in thick human and mouse brain samples. Furthermore, pressurized immunohistochemistry substantially decreases the time required for classic staining of thin sections.

SUBMISSION CATEGORY

New Results
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence survey estimates are affected by anti-nucleocapsid antibody decline
Authors: Bolotin Shelly , Tran Vanessa , Osman Selma , Brown Kevin A. , Buchan Sarah A. , Joh Eugene , Deeks Shelley L. , Allen Vanessa G.
Published: September 2020

We analyzed 21,676 residual specimens from Ontario, Canada collected between March-August, 2020 to investigate the effect of antibody decline on SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence estimates. Testing specimens orthogonally using the Abbott (anti-nucleocapsid) and then the Ortho (anti-spike) assays, seroprevalence estimates ranged from 0.4%-1.4%, despite ongoing disease activity. The geometric mean concentration (GMC) of antibody-positive specimens decreased over time (p=0.015), and the GMC of antibody-negative specimens increased over time (p=0.0018). The association between the two tests decreased each month (p<0.001), suggesting anti-N antibody decline. Lowering the Abbott index cut-off from 1.4 to 0.7 resulted in a 16% increase in positive specimens.
Cerebellar Activation Bidirectionally Regulates Nucleus Accumbens Core and Medial Shell
Authors: D’Ambra Alexa F. , Vlasov Ksenia , Jung Se Jung , Ganesan Swetha , Antzoulatos Evan G. , Fioravante Diasynou
Published: September 2020

Although the cerebellum is now recognized as part of a long-range brain network that serves limbic functions and motivated behavior, knowledge of cerebello-limbic connectivity is limited, and nothing is known about how the cerebellum connects functionally to the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Here, we report that stimulation of cerebellar nuclei in mice of both sexes modulates spiking activity in both NAc core and medial shell with fast excitation and slower, less synchronized inhibition. Fast responses would be well poised to support rapid communication of information critical to the control of motivated behavior, whereas slower responses may be suggestive of a regulatory function, such as gain control. Tracing experiments to chart cerebellar nuclei-NAc pathways identified disynaptic pathways that recruit the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and intralaminar thalamus (Centromedial and Parafascicular nuclei) as intermediary nodes. Optogenetic activation of cerebellar axons in each of these nodes was sufficient to evoke responses in both NAc core and medial shell, albeit with distinct, node-dependent properties. These pathways and the functional connectivity they support could underlie the role of the cerebellum in motivated behavior.
Evaluating the fitness of PA/I38T-substituted influenza A viruses with reduced baloxavir susceptibility in a competitive mixtures ferret model
Authors: Lee Leo YY , Zhou Jie , Koszalka Paulina , Frise Rebecca , Farrukee Rubaiyea , Baba Keiko , Miah Shahjahan , Shishido Takao , Galiano Monica , Hashimoto Takashi , Omoto Shinya , Uehara Takeki , Mifsud Edin , Collinson Neil , Kuhlbusch Klaus , Clinch Barry , Wildum Steffen , Barclay Wendy , Hurt Aeron C
Published: September 2020

Baloxavir is approved in several countries for the treatment of uncomplicated influenza in otherwise-healthy and high-risk patients. Treatment-emergent viruses with reduced susceptibility to baloxavir have been detected in clinical trials, but the likelihood of widespread occurrence depends on replication capacity and onward transmission. We evaluated the fitness of A/H3N2 and A/H1N1pdm09 viruses with the polymerase acidic I38T-variant conferring reduced susceptibility to baloxavir relative to wild-type (WT) viruses, using a competitive mixture ferret model, recombinant viruses and patient-derived virus isolates. The A/H3N2 I38T virus showed a reduction in within-host fitness but comparable between-host fitness to the WT virus, while the A/H1N1pdm09 I38T virus had broadly similar within-host fitness but substantially lower between-host fitness. Although I38T viruses replicate and transmit between ferrets, our data suggest that viruses with this amino acid substitution have lower fitness relative to WT and this relative fitness cost was greater in A/H1N1pdm09 viruses than in A/H3N2 viruses.
An epigenetic clock to estimate the age of living beluga whales
Authors: Bors Eleanor K. , Baker C. Scott , Wade Paul R. , O’Neill Kaimyn , Shelden Kim E.W. , Thompson Michael J. , Fei Zhe , Jarman Simon , Horvath Steve
Published: September 2020

Introduction

DNA methylation data facilitate the development of accurate molecular estimators of chronological age, or ‘epigenetic clocks.’ We present a robust epigenetic clock for the beluga whale,Delphinapterus leucas,developed for an endangered population in Cook Inlet, Alaska, USA.

Methods and Results

We used a custom methylation array to measure methylation levels at 37,491 cytosine-guanine sites (CpGs) from skin samples of dead whales (n = 67) whose chronological ages were estimated based on tooth growth layer groups. Using these calibration data, a penalized regression model selected 23 CpGs, providing an R2= 0.92 for the training data; and an R2= 0.74 and median absolute age error = 2.9 years for the leave one out cross-validation. We applied the epigenetic clock to an independent data set of 38 skin samples collected with a biopsy dart from living whales between 2016 and 2018. Age estimates ranged from 11 to 27 years. We also report sex correlations in CpG data and describe an approach of identifying the sex of an animal using DNA methylation.

Discussion

The epigenetic estimators of age and sex presented here have broad applications for conservation and management of Cook Inlet beluga whales and potentially other cetaceans.
The role of digital learning toward students' satisfaction and university brand image at educational institutes of Pakistan: a post-effect of COVID-19
Authors: Shehzadi Sidra , Nisar Qasim Ali , Hussain Muhammad Sajjad , Basheer Muhammad Farhan , Hameed Waseem Ul , Chaudhry Naveed Iqbal
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study is undertaken to examine the role of information and communication technology (ICT), e-service quality and e-information quality towards brand image of universities by concentrating on students’ e-learning, e-word of mouth and satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population was the students of public and private universities in Pakistan. Data collected using an e-questionnaire by 408 students were subjected to PLS-SEM for analysis.

Findings

Findings revealed that ICT, e-service quality and e-information quality are positively contributed toward students' e-learning which ultimately leads to create positive e-word of mouth and students' satisfaction. Meanwhile, results also identified that e-word of mouth and students' satisfaction lead to generate a positive brand image of universities.

Practical implications

This study has unique implications for universities to develop an e-learning platform to facilitate their students in this situation of COVID-19. It provides guidelines for educational institutions to implement the learning management system effectively with a view to facilitate the students with education.

Originality/value

This study has novel contribution in literature in the domain of digital learning. It is unique in a way to integrate the usage of technology with students' e-learning and satisfaction that ultimately create brand image of universities.
An analysis of the normative parameters of reward and risk in Islamic finance
Authors: Benaicha Mohamed
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to define the parameters of the reward-risk principle in Islamic finance as established in the literature and discuss propositions that are presented on how such a principle is to be applied to Islamic banking products.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive approach is used to explore the normative parameters and criticisms of the application of reward-risk in Islamic finance.

Findings

The study finds that the principle of reward-risk is embodied in the multi-component concept ofʿiwaḍ(counter value) which must be evident in market transactions that involve commercial exchanges. The components include risk, costs, effort, value-adding and capital, all of which apply uniquely to different contractual forms of financing.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses academic literature and industry documents along with modest contact with prominent practitioners who provided general feedback on prevalent Islamic finance industry practices.

Practical implications

This study exposits the variety of approaches in applying the reward-risk principle and sheds light on the primary elements of the principle which will facilitate its greater consideration by the Islamic finance industry.

Originality/value

This study is a meaningful attempt at conveniently summing up and applying the parameters that are considered when discussing the scope of the reward-risk principle in Islamic finance.
Combining learning with family responsibilities: European women in comparative perspective
Authors: Melesk Kirsti
Published: September 2020

Purpose

While women in most European societies still carry the largest burden in caring for the family, there is also an important unrealised learning interest among women. This has an impact on women's labour market and career opportunities. This paper aims at analysing empirically the role of family obligations in women's ability to realise their learning interests and how this differs across societal and institutional contexts across Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper makes use of the second wave of Adult Education Survey from 2011, including data from 22 European countries. The article focuses on women aged 25–55 – an age group most affected by parental obligations. Logistic regression models are used to compare the effect that children in the household have on women's learning barriers across country groups of different family policy arrangements.

Findings

The results confirm empirically the situational nature of family barriers to learning as they grow and decline depending on the age of children. However, the level of intensity and the period when family-related barriers remain relevant for women vary across European countries.

Originality/value

This paper provides new insights into how women's caring obligations shape their labour market and career opportunities, focussing on the ability to take up adult learning. Involving data from 22 countries, including Eastern European countries, provides a broad look into the differing contexts shaping women's opportunities across Europe.
Does emotional intelligence and empowering leadership affect psychological empowerment and work engagement?
Authors: Alotaibi Saad M. , Amin Muslim , Winterton Jonathan
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the role of emotional intelligence and empowering leadership in enhancing psychological empowerment and work engagement in private hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed to staff nurses at five private hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 100 questionnaires to each hospital, with an achieved response rate of 34.8%.

Findings

The results show statistically significant positive relationships between emotional intelligence, empowering leadership, psychological empowerment and work engagement. The relationship between emotional intelligence and work engagement and psychological empowerment and work engagement were not significant.

Research limitations/implications

The study found that employees who have a high level of emotional intelligence and the positive stimulus of empowering leadership demonstrate enhanced psychological empowerment and work engagement.

Practical implications

A better understanding of the role of EI and EL in enhancing psychological empowerment and work engagement could help hospitals reduce turnover among nurses and improve their relationships with patients, as well as maintaining competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence to support the effect of EI on empowering leadership, psychological empowerment and work engagement in private hospitals.
Functional diversity of microboringOstreobiumalgae isolated from corals
Authors: Massé Anaïs , Tribollet Aline , Meziane Tarik , Bourguet‐Kondracki Marie‐Lise , Yéprémian Claude , Sève Charlotte , Thiney Najet , Longeon Arlette , Couté Alain , Domart‐Coulon Isabelle
Published: September 2020

The filamentous chlorophyteOstreobiumsp. dominates shallow marine carbonate microboring communities, and is one of the major agents of reef bioerosion. While its large genetic diversity has emerged, its physiology remains little known, with unexplored relationship between genotypes and phenotypes (endolithicversusfree‐living growth forms). Here, we isolated nine strains affiliated to two lineages ofOstreobium(>8% sequence divergence of the plastid generbcL), one of which was assigned to the family Odoaceae, from the fast‐growing coral hostPocillopora acutaLamarck 1816. Free‐living isolates maintained their bioerosive potential, colonizing pre‐bleached coral carbonate skeletons. We compared phenotypes, highlighting shifts in pigment and fatty acid compositions, carbon to nitrogen ratios and stable isotope compositions (δ13C and δ15N). Our data show a pattern of higher chlorophyllband lower arachidonic acid (20:4ω6) content in endolithicversusfree‐livingOstreobium. Photosynthetic carbon fixation and nitrate uptake, quantified via 8 h pulse‐labeling with13C‐bicarbonate and15N‐nitrate, showed lower isotopic enrichment in endolithic compared to free‐living filaments. Our results highlight the functional plasticity ofOstreobiumphenotypes. The isotope tracer approach opens the way to further study the biogeochemical cycling and trophic ecology of these cryptic algae at coral holobiont and reef scales.
AI‐Powered mental health chatbots: Examining users’ motivations, active communicative action and engagement after mass‐shooting disasters
Authors: Cheng Yang , Jiang Hua
Published: September 2020

Chatbots are gaining their popularity in society and have triggered heated discussions in academia as well. Currently, few studies explored the applications of AI‐powered mental health chatbots in a mass‐shooting disaster context. Via integrating literature from multi‐disciplines such as crisis management, mental health and digital communication, this quantitative study intends to contribute to close this gap and explore the associations between perceived gratifications and protection motivations of using mental health chatbot services, active communicative action, and online and offline engagement behaviours of solving mental health problems after disasters. This study surveyed 1,114 US participants who ever used chatbot services from top healthcare companies. Implications of the results enhance theoretical discussions on how artificial intelligence has shaped individuals’ motivations, communicative action and engagement behaviour to treat mental health problems. This study also benefits professionals who want to learn more about chatbots for mental healthcare, crisis management and customer engagement.
Associations between social and behavioural factors and the risk of late stillbirth – findings from the Midland and North of England Stillbirth case‐control study
Authors: Heazell AEP , Budd J , Smith LK , Li M , Cronin R , Bradford B , McCowan LME , Mitchell EA , Stacey T , Roberts D , Thompson JMD
Published: September 2020

Objective

To investigate behavioural and social characteristics of women who experienced a late stillbirth compared with women with ongoing live pregnancies at similar gestation.

Design

Case‐control study.

Setting

41 maternity units in the UK.

Population

Women who had a stillbirth ≥28 weeks’ gestation (n = 287) and women with an ongoing pregnancy at the time of interview (n = 714).

Methods

Data were collected using an interviewer‐administered questionnaire which included questions regarding women’s behaviours (e.g. alcohol intake and household smoke exposure) and social characteristics (e.g. ethnicity, employment, housing). Stress was measured by the 10‐item Perceived Stress Scale.

Main outcome measure

Late stillbirth.

Results

Multivariable analysis adjusting for co‐existing social and behavioural factors showed women living in the most deprived quintile had an increased risk of stillbirth compared with the least deprived quintile (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.16; 95% CI 1.47–6.77). There was an increased risk of late stillbirth associated with unemployment (aOR 2.32; 95% CI 1.00–5.38) and women who declined to answer the question about domestic abuse (aOR 4.12; 95% CI 2.49–6.81). A greater number of antenatal visits than recommended was associated with a reduction in stillbirth (aOR 0.26; 95% CI 0.16–0.42).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates associations between late stillbirth and socio‐economic deprivation, perceived stress and domestic abuse, highlighting the need for strategies to prevent stillbirth to extend beyond maternity care. Enhanced antenatal care may be able to mitigate some of the increased risk of stillbirth.

Tweetable Abstract

Deprivation, unemployment, social stress & declining to answer about domestic abuse increase risk of #stillbirth after 28 weeks’ gestation.
Telling Statistical Stories
Authors: Schuckers Michael , Campbell Sarah
Published: September 2020

Statistics should be “the driest of all reading”, according to a quote often attributed to the Victorian statistician William Farr. But Michael Schuckers and Sarah Campbell beg to differ. Here, they explain why narratives are key to capturing reader attention
Oral administration of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. leaves extract protects against atherosclerosis by improving macrophage function in ApoE knockout mice
Authors: Hashikawa‐Hobara Narumi , Hashikawa Naoya , Sugiman Nao , Hosoo Shingo , Hirata Tetsuya , Yamaguchi Yasuyo , Yamasaki Hiroo , Kawasaki Hiromu , Nishibe Sansei
Published: September 2020

Eucommia leaf extract (ELE) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. We investigated the effect of ELE on the development of atherosclerosis and changes in peritoneal macrophage function in apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE–/–) mice. At 8 weeks of age, ApoE–/– mice were randomly divided into three groups that were fed a high‐fat diet blended with 0% (control), 5% or 10% ELE for a period of 7 weeks. The 10% ELE dose caused an approximately 36% reduction in atherosclerotic lesions, as estimated by oil red O staining. Real‐time PCR analysis showed that the 1‐week treatment with ELE reduced mRNA levels of Tnf‐alpha, Il‐1, and Mif in peritoneal macrophages isolated from the ApoE–/– mice. Furthermore, a 1‐week treatment with the 10% ELE diet significantly reduced migration and adhesion functions in peritoneal macrophages. These results suggest that a 10% ELE diet reduces atherosclerotic lesions and modulates macrophage function by reducing cytokine expression.

Practical Application

Eucommia leaf extract (ELE) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that reduces atherosclerotic lesions and suppresses inflammatory cytokines expression.
Determination of volatile compounds responsible for sensory characteristics from Brazilian extra virgin olive oil using HS‐SPME/GC‐MS direct method
Authors: da Costa Jadson Romualdo Oliveira , Dal Bosco Simone Morelo , Ramos Renata Cristina de Souza , Machado Isabel Cristina Kasper , Garavaglia Juliano , Villasclaras Sebastián Sánchez
Published: September 2020

Producing of extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) containing pleasant sensory notes depends on fruits quality and production process and is strongly associated with their classification that is based on aroma and sensory taste. Consolidated as an efficient method, the direct headspace solid phase microextraction technique (HS‐SPME) was utilized to characterize the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profile, which contributes to the aroma of olive oils from southwestern (Serra da Mantiqueira region) and southern (Campanha Gaúcha region) Brazil. In this work, the relationship between the VOCs and sensory characteristics has been established; 19 EVOO samples (12 from Campanha Gaúcha and 7 from Serra da Mantiqueira) were studied. Indeed, the main volatile compounds were analyzed and grouped by their classification as well stood up with the trained sensorial panel perceptions. Relevant correlation between artichoke notes and ripe EVOO and between herbaceous notes and green EVOO was found. Additional correlations were observed for C5 and C6 VOCs with green and fruit/floral notes. The results denote the high quality among the samples and imply that besides the genetic factor, ripe or green classification influenced the volatile composition.

Practical Application

As the Brazilian olive oil production is increasing, knowing about different sensory characteristics and its correlation with the volatile compounds of extra virgin olive oil represents a good tool to improve the quality. Moreover, the application of direct SPME method was possible evidence in the differentiation of ripe and green olive oils, beyond the production region and in consonance with its sensory notes and characteristics.
Antibrowning effect of commercial and acid‐heat coagulated whey on potatoes during refrigerated storage
Authors: Palamutoğlu Recep
Published: September 2020

Potato color turns to brown after some process such as peeling, cutting, and slicing. In this research, the effect of acid‐heat coagulated whey and commercial whey solutions on the color, polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase activity, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide content of potatoes were compared with pure water (control) immersion and sodium hydrogen sulfide solution. According to color results, there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference was found in the L* and b* values, browning index, and whitening index of the treatment groups. The polyphenol oxidase activity of the sulfide and commercial whey solution groups decreased from the initial values on day 3 then increased over that value. The use of the whey solution in preventing polyphenol oxidase activity showed a similar curve with the use of the sulfide solution. A rapid increase was observed in the malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide values of all treatment groups during the first 3‐day storage.

Practical Application

Immersion of potato cubes to whey protein solution prevents the browning and inhibits polyphenol oxidase activity. The browning index of the samples was not affected by the immersing water or whey solutions
Effects and mechanism of tea polyphenols on the quality of oil during frying process
Authors: Gao Hao‐Xiang , Yu Jie , Chen Nan , Zeng Wei‐Cai
Published: September 2020

The effects and action mechanism of tea polyphenols (TP) on the quality of rapeseed oil during frying process were investigated. Results showed that compared with control, TP (0.04%, w/w) exhibited the remarkable ability to inhibit the deterioration of acid value, peroxide value, anisidine value, viscosity, and color of frying oil. By using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, frying oil with TP showed the higher content of unsaturated fatty acids (72.79%) and lower content of trans fatty acids (3.36%) than those of control. Meanwhile, frying oil with TP had a higher total phenolic content than control at the same frying time. In addition, the thermo gravimetric‐differential scanning calorimetry results showed that TP could increase the oxidation stability of rapeseed oil. Furthermore, according to the Fourier transform infrared and molecular dynamic simulation results, TP could reduce the breaking degree of = C–H bond, C–O–C bond, and C = C bond in oil molecules, and inhibit the oxidation of oil components by inhibiting the generation of free radicals and eliminating free radicals. All present results suggested that TP showed the potential value to be used for protecting the quality of oil during the frying process in food and chemical industries.

Practical Applications

The inhibitory effect of tea polyphenols on the deterioration of quality of rapeseed oil during frying was found and the mechanism had also preliminarily interpretation. This work provided a method for monitoring the quality of fry oil and provided the theoretical basis for the use of tea polyphenols in frying.
Effect of degree of milling on the cadmium in vitro bioaccessibility in cooked rice
Authors: Peng Lanlan , Chen Jiwang , Chen Lu , Ding Wenping , Gao Yonggui , Wu Yongning , Xiong Youling L.
Published: September 2020

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in rice grain is common worldwide. This study investigated the effect of degree of milling (DM) on the reduction of Cd in cooked rice grain and porridge (rice‐to‐water ratios 1:1.6 and 1:10, respectively) and Cd in vitro bioaccessibility. Cd‐contaminated rice grains with DMs of 20%, 15%, and 0% were cooked and then subjected to successive digestion in a gastrointestinal environment model. Simulated‐digestion juices, including saliva, gastric juice, duodenal juice, and bile juice, were used. The degree of gelatinization of cooked rice was measured and the morphological characteristics of the grain were also examined. The results showed that the Cd in vitro bioaccessibility, although less than 50% in all samples, was gradually increased with an increase of DM. The detected Cd bioaccessibility was higher at half meals (reduced grain content) when compared with full meals (full grain content). As DM increased, the surface of cooked rice grain and porridge became smoother, and the amount of fiber, fat droplets, and starch granules were gradually decreased, whereas degree of gelatinization increased. The results indicate that DM affects the Cd in vitro bioaccessibility in cooked rice by altering the gelatinization of starch.

Practical Application

Degree of milling (DM) significantly influenced the in vitro bioaccessibility of cadmium (Cd) in cooked rice. This work may offer a potential solution to the rice grain with high Cd content because a limited DM will allow a low bioaccessibility of Cd.
Racial and ethnic disparities in the delayed diagnosis of appendicitis among children
Authors: Goyal Monika K. , Chamberlain James M. , Webb Michael , Grundmeier Robert W. , Johnson Tiffani J. , Lorch Scott A. , Zorc Joseph J. , Alessandrini Evaline , Bajaj Lalit , Cook Lawrence , Alpern Elizabeth R. ,   for the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN)
Published: September 2020

Background

Appendicitis is the most common surgical condition in pediatric emergency department (ED) patients. Prompt diagnosis can reduce morbidity, including appendiceal perforation. The goal of this study was to measure racial/ethnic differences in rates of 1) appendiceal perforation, 2) delayed diagnosis of appendicitis, and 3) diagnostic imaging during prior visit(s).

Methods

This was a 3‐year multicenter (seven EDs) retrospective cohort study of children diagnosed with appendicitis using the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network Registry. Delayed diagnosis was defined as having at least one prior ED visit within 7 days preceding appendicitis diagnosis. We performed multivariable logistic regression to measure associations of race/ethnicity (non‐Hispanic [NH]‐white, NH‐Black, Hispanic, other) with 1) appendiceal perforation, 2) delayed diagnosis of appendicitis, and 3) diagnostic imaging during prior visit(s).

Results

Of 7,298 patients with appendicitis and documented race/ethnicity, 2,567 (35.2%) had appendiceal perforation. In comparison to NH‐whites, NH‐Black children had higher likelihood of perforation (36.5% vs. 34.9%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.21 [95% confidence interval {CI} = 1.01 to 1.45]). A total of 206 (2.8%) had a delayed diagnosis of appendicitis. NH‐Black children were more likely to have delayed diagnoses (4.7% vs. 2.0%; aOR = 1.81 [95% CI = 1.09 to 2.98]). Eighty‐nine (43.2%) patients with delayed diagnosis had abdominal imaging during their prior visits. In comparison to NH‐whites, NH‐Black children were less likely to undergo any imaging (28.2% vs. 46.2%; aOR = 0.41 [95% CI = 0.18 to 0.96]) or definitive imaging (e.g., ultrasound/computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging; 10.3% vs. 35.9%; aOR = 0.15 [95% CI = 0.05 to 0.50]) during prior visits.

Conclusions

In this multicenter cohort, there were racial disparities in appendiceal perforation. There were also racial disparities in rates of delayed diagnosis of appendicitis and diagnostic imaging during prior ED visits. These disparities in diagnostic imaging may lead to delays in appendicitis diagnosis and, thus, may contribute to higher perforation rates demonstrated among minority children.
Designing learning experiences for outdoor hybrid learning spaces
Authors: Mettis Kadri , Väljataga Terje
Published: September 2020

With the support of various personal and institutional mobile technologies, numerous physical and virtual spaces can be turned into interesting and motivating hybrid learning settings. By its nature, outdoor mobile learning happens on the move is connected to specific locations and settings inviting learners to study their surroundings, inquire about natural phenomena and solve complex real‐life problems. This poses challenges for teachers to design meaningful, contextualized and comprehensive learning experiences. The paper aims to explore what kind of mobile learning scenarios K‐12 teachers create and what are the limitations and development perspectives of these scenarios. Content analysis of 25 location‐based outdoor learning tracks with 465 questions and tasks was carried out. The results demonstrate that designing and implementing learning activities outside the safe, familiar classroom environment in new hybrid learning spaces is a challenging task for the teachers on many different levels. Taking Bloom’s revised taxonomy, types of contextualization and integrated learning models as frameworks for content analysis of the learning scenarios, the study shows that the teachers do not perceive the potential hybrid spaces and mobile technologies offer in order to design consistent learning experiences that emphasize higher order thinking levels, encompass contextual information and integrate knowledge from multiple disciplinary sources. The paper concludes that there is a need for more teacher training and systemic interventions into current teaching practices that encourage teachers to step outside of their existing teaching paradigms to acknowledge the pedagogical potential of hybrid learning spaces as well as the technological affordances.
Low‐temperature thermochronology as a control on vertical movements for semi‐quantitative source‐to‐sink analysis: A case study for the Permian to Neogene of Morocco and surroundings
Authors: Charton Rémi , Bertotti Giovanni , Duval Arnould Aude , Storms Joep E. A. , Redfern Jonathan
Published: September 2020

Continental passive margins and their hinterlands in the Atlantic realm have been the locus of many Low Temperature Thermochronology (LTT) and time‐Temperature (t‐T) modelling studies that evidence pre‐, syn‐ and post‐rift episodic km‐scale exhumation and burial episodes. In this study, we integrate data from over 30 published LTT and t‐T modelling studies from Morocco and its surroundings using a three‐step workflow to obtain: (a) exhumation/burial rates, (b) erosion rates and (c) palaeoreconstructions of source‐to‐sink domains, between the Permian and the Present. Our synthesis of available t‐T modelling results predicts high exhumation rates in the Anti‐Atlas (0.1 km/Myr) during the Early to Middle Jurassic, and in the High Atlas (0.1 km/Myr) and Rif (up to 0.5 km/Myr) during the Neogene. These rates are comparable to values typical of rift flank, domal or structural uplifts settings. During the other investigated periods, exhumation rates in the Meseta, High‐Atlas, Anti‐Atlas and Reguibat shield are around 0.04 ± 0.02 km/Myr. Interpolation of the exhumation rates at the regional scale allow calculation of the volume of rocks eroded. Estimates of erosion rates are between 0.2 x 103and 7.5 x 103km3(in the Meseta and the Reguibat Shield respectively). Ten erosional (quantitative, from interpolation results) and depositional (qualitative, from data synthesis) “source‐and‐sink” maps have been constructed, with emphasis on the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The maps integrate the extent of exhumed domains, using information from geological maps, lithofacies and biostratigraphic data from new geological fieldwork and well data from onshore and offshore basins. The results illustrate changes in the source‐to‐sink systems and allow for a better understanding of the Central Atlantic margin hinterlands evolution.
Variants of WNT7A and GPR124 are associated with hemorrhagic transformation following intravenous thrombolysis in ischemic stroke
Authors: Ta Song , Rong Xianfang , Guo Zhen‐Ni , Jin Hang , Zhang Peng , Li Fenge , Li Zhihuan , Lin Lilong , Zheng Chenqing , Gu Qingquan , Zhang Yuan , Liu Wenlan , Yang Yi , Chang Junlei
Published: September 2020

Aims

The canonical Wnt signaling pathway plays an essential role in blood‐brain barrier integrity and intracerebral hemorrhage in preclinical stroke models. Here, we sought to explore the association between canonical Wnt signaling and hemorrhagic transformation (HT) following intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients as well as to determine the underlying cellular mechanisms.

Methods

355 consecutive AIS patients receiving IVT were included. Blood samples were collected on admission, and HT was detected at 24 hours after IVT. 117 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of 28 Wnt signaling genes and exon sequences of 4 core cerebrovascular Wnt signaling components (GPR124, RECK, FZD4, and CTNNB1) were determined using a customized sequencing chip. The impact of identified genetic variants was further studied in HEK 293T cells using cellular and biochemical assays.

Results

During the study period, 80 patients experienced HT with 27 parenchymal hematoma (PH). Compared to the non‐PH patients, WNT7A SNPs (rs2163910, P = .001, OR 2.727; rs1124480, P = .002, OR 2.404) and GPR124 SNPs (rs61738775, P = .012, OR 4.883; rs146016051, P < .001, OR 7.607; rs75336000, P = .044, OR 2.503) were selectively enriched in the PH patients. Interestingly, a missense variant of GPR124 (rs75336000, c.3587G>A) identified in the PH patients resulted in a single amino acid alteration (p.Cys1196Tyr) in the intracellular domain of GPR124. This variant substantially reduced the activity of WNT7B‐induced canonical Wnt signaling by decreasing the ability of GPR124 to recruit cytoplasmic DVL1 to the cellular membrane.

Conclusion

Variants of WNT7A and GPR124 are associated with increased risk of PH in patients with AIS after intravenous thrombolysis, likely through regulating the activity of canonical Wnt signaling.
Erythema ab igne with features resembling keratosis lichenoides chronica
Authors: Wells Amy , Desai Anand , Rudnick Eric W. , Motaparthi Kiran
Published: September 2020

Erythema ab igne (EAI) is an asymptomatic dermatosis that develops in response to chronic exposure to low‐grade heat. Characteristic findings on histopathology include epidermal atrophy, dermal elastosis, atypical histiocytes, and melanin and hemosiderin deposition. Reactive endothelial changes and prominent vascular proliferation are variable. Keratosis lichenoides chronica (KLC) is a rare lichenoid hyperkeratotic dermatosis. Acanthosis with parakeratosis and a lichenoid interface dermatitis with lymphocytes, histiocytes, and plasma cells are characteristic findings of KLC. Although its etiology remains unclear, KLC has been reported to occur in response to heat. Herein, we report a case of EAI with features resembling KLC.
Evaluation of the efficacy of subantimicrobial dose doxycycline in rosacea: a systematic review of clinical trials and meta‐analysis
Authors: Husein‐ElAhmed Husein , Steinhoff Martin
Published: September 2020

Background

Low‐dose doxycycline (SDD) is an antimicrobial agent that appears to improve common inflammatory skin diseases. Few data are available regarding the overall effectiveness, appropriate length of treatment and optimal patient selection for rosacea. We therefore reviewed the efficacy of sub‐antimicrobial doses of SDD in papulopustular rosacea (PPR) and aimed to determine the most suitable patients for this approach.

Methods

From July to September 2019, we carried out a comprehensive search of literature from five databases, using a combination of “rosacea” AND “doxycycline”.

Results

Our search yielded 532 potentially relevant studies. Our meta‐analysis showed no significant difference between SDD and a comparator (RR: 1.12, 95 % CI: 0.78–1.62, I2 =  86 %). Subgroup analysis of studies comparing doxycycline with placebo yielded a clear difference in favor of doxycycline (RR: 1.45, 95 % CI: 1.22–1.72, I2 =  31 %), while subgroup analysis of studies comparing active drugs revealed no difference between interventions (RR: 0.52, 95 % CI: 0.17–1.63, I2 =  90 %).

Conclusions

There is strong evidence that SDD is more effective than placebo. However, other drugs such as minocycline or isotretinoin have shown outcomes at least similar to that of SDD. We suggest that the anti‐inflammatory properties of SDD may be of more value for mild cases of rosacea than for moderate to severe cases, for which higher (antimicrobial) doses of doxycycline may be a more suitable choice.
Pilot study on the influence of cold atmospheric plasma on bacterial contamination and healing tendency of chronic wounds
Authors: Moelleken Maurice , Jockenhöfer Finja , Wiegand Cornelia , Buer Jan , Benson Sven , Dissemond Joachim
Published: September 2020

Background

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has been used successfully for wound treatment, with thrice weekly treatment intervals. In this study, we wished to investigate whether comparably beneficial results can be achieved even with once weekly CAP treatment.

Patients and methods

In this randomized clinical pilot study (RCT) patients with therapy‐refractory chronic wounds were examined over a maximum of twelve weeks. Groups 1 and 2 were treated with CAP once and twice a week, respectively. Patients in Group 3 received placebo therapy once a week.

Results

Wound area decreased significantly by 63.0 % in Group 1 (n = 14, P = 0.005) and by 46.8 % in Group 2 (n = 13, P = 0.007). In Group 3 (n = 10) the wounds grew on average 17.5 % larger. A significant reduction in pain was measured in both CAP‐treated groups (Group 1: P = 0.042; Group 2: P = 0.027). Only in Group 2 was there a significant improvement in wound‐specific quality of life (P = 0.005). After the 12‐week CAP treatment, the reduction in bacterial load compared to the day of study inclusion averaged 50.4 % for Group 1 and 35.0 % for Group 2.

Conclusions

Our RCT shows that treatment with CAP improves various aspects of wound healing in patients with therapy‐refractory chronic wounds. The results obtained for once weekly treatment with CAP were not inferior to those obtained when CAP treatment was three times a week. Treatment once a week is also easier and more economical to implement in clinical routine.