bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Checking the calculation model for the coronavirus epidemic in Berlin. The first steps towards predicting the spread of the epidemic
Authors: Below D. , Mairanowski J. , Mairanowski F.
Published: November 2020

A calculation model has been proposed to forecast the spread of the СOVID-19 epidemic under quarantine conditions. The resulting simple analytical relationships allow for the assessment of factors determining the intensity of the spread of infection, including the changing requirements for quarantine severity. The prediction method presented makes it possible to calculate both the total number of infected persons and the maximum rate of spread of infection.

Following the publication of this work in May 2020, in October this year there was a new surge in the virus epidemic, the intensity of which depends on the population’s compliance with the rules of hygiene and social distance. Comparison of the results of the model calculations with the statistics for Berlin shows that they are of satisfactory quality. In particular, it shows that with an epidemic growth rate of around 1,000 people/day, unless additional quarantine measures are taken, the total number of infections can be expected to approach 100,000 within approximately six months. It is shown that the intensity of the virus’s spread depends on the socio-demographic composition of the population in different districts of Berlin and age structure. The possible impact of behavioural factors dependent on the psychological state of people on the spread of the epidemic, which can be assessed by analysing changes in heart rate, is discussed.
Modeling the Effect of Lockdown Timing as a COVID-19 Control Measure in Countries with Differing Social Contacts
Authors: Oraby Tamer , Tyshenko Michael G , Maldonado Jose Campo , Vatcheva Kristina , Elsaadany Susie , Alali Walid Q , Longenecker Joseph C , Al-Zoughool Mustafa
Published: November 2020

The application, timing, and duration of lockdown strategies during a pandemic remain poorly quantified with regards to expected public health outcomes. Previous projection models have reached conflicting conclusions about the effect of complete lockdowns on COVID-19 outcomes. We developed a stochastic continuous-time Markov chain (CTMC) model with eight states including the environment (SEAMHQRD-V), and derived a formula for the basic reproduction number, R0, for that model. Applying the R0 formula as a function in previously-published social contact matrices from 152 countries, we produced the distribution and four categories of possible R0 for the 152 countries and chose one country from each quarter as a representative for four social contact categories (Canada, China, Mexico, and Niger). The model was then used to predict the effects of lockdown timing in those four categories through the representative countries. The analysis for the effect of a lockdown was performed without the influence of the other control measures, like social distancing and mask wearing, to quantify its absolute effect. Hypothetical lockdown timing was shown to be the critical parameter in ameliorating pandemic peak incidence. More importantly, we found that well-timed lockdowns can split the peak of hospitalizations into two smaller distant peaks while extending the overall pandemic duration. The timing of lockdowns reveals that a “tunneling” effect on incidence can be achieved to bypass the peak and prevent pandemic caseloads from exceeding hospital capacity.
Reconceptualising resilience within a translational framework is supported by unique and brain-region specific transcriptional signatures in mice
Authors: Ayash Sarah , Lingner Thomas , Ryu Soojin , Kalisch Raffael , Schmitt Ulrich , Müller Marianne B.
Published: November 2020

Chronic social defeat (CSD) in mice has been increasingly employed in experimental resilience research. Particularly, the degree of CSD-induced social avoidance is used to classify animals into resilient (socially non-avoidant) versus susceptible (avoidant). In-spired by human data pointing to threat-safety discrimination and responsiveness to extinction training of aversive memories as characteristics of resilient individuals, we here describe a translationally informed stratification which identifiedthreephenotypic subgroups of mice following CSD: theDiscriminating-avoiders, characterised by successful social threat-safety discrimination and successful extinction of social avoidance; theIndis-criminate-avoiders, showing aversive response generalisation, and theNon-avoiders(absence of social avoidance) displaying impaired conditioned learning. Furthermore, and supporting the biological validity of our approach, we uncovered subgroup-specific transcriptional signatures in classical fear conditioning and anxiety-related brain regions. Our reconceptualisation of resilience in mice refines the currently used dichotomous classification and contributes to advancing future translational approaches.
Auxin confers protection against ER stress inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Bhoi A. , Palladino F. , Fabrizio P.
Published: November 2020

Auxins are plant growth regulators that influence most aspects of plant development through complex mechanisms. The development of an auxin-inducible degradation (AID) system has enabled rapid, conditional protein depletion in yeast and cultured cells. More recently, the system was successfully adapted toC. elegansto achieve auxin-dependent degradation of targets in all tissues and developmental stages. Whether auxin treatment alone has an impact on nematode physiology is an open question. Here we show that indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), the auxin most commonly used to trigger AID in worms, functions through the conserved IRE-1/XBP-1 branch of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) to promote resistance to Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress. Because of the central function played by the UPR in protein folding, lipid biosynthesis and lifespan regulation, these results suggest that extreme caution should be exercised when using the AID system to study these and related processes.
Bridging brain and cognition: A multilayer network analysis of brain structural covariance and general intelligence in a developmental sample of struggling learners
Authors: Simpson-Kent Ivan L. , Fried Eiko I. , Akarca Danyal , Mareva Silvana , Bullmore Edward T. ,   the CALM Team, Kievit Rogier A.
Published: November 2020

Network analytic methods that are ubiquitous in other areas, such as systems neuroscience, have recently been used to test network theories in psychology, including intelligence research. The network or mutualism theory of intelligence proposes that the statistical associations among cognitive abilities (e.g., specific abilities such as vocabulary or memory) stem from causal relations among them throughout development. In this study, we used network models (specifically LASSO) of cognitive abilities and brain structural covariance (grey and white matter) to simultaneously model brain-behavior relationships essential for general intelligence in a large (behavioral, N=805; cortical volume, N=246; fractional anisotropy, N=165), developmental (ages 5-18) cohort of struggling learners (CALM). We found that mostly positive, small partial correlations pervade our cognitive, neural, and multilayer networks. Moreover, using community detection (Walktrap algorithm) and calculating node centrality (absolute strength and bridge strength), we found convergent evidence that subsets of both cognitive and neural nodes play an intermediary role ‘between’ brain and behavior. We discuss implications and possible avenues for future studies.
NADPH oxidase generated reactive oxygen species and aquaporin conduits mediate activity-regulated dendritic plasticity
Authors: Dhawan Serene , Myers Philip , Landgraf Matthias
Published: November 2020

Neurons utilize plasticity of dendritic arbors as part of a larger suite of adaptive plasticity mechanisms. This explicitly manifests with motoneurons in the Drosophila embryo and larva, where dendritic arbors are exclusively postsynaptic and are used as homeostatic devices, compensating for changes in synaptic input through adapting their growth and connectivity. We recently identified reactive oxygen species (ROS) as novel plasticity signals instrumental in this form of dendritic adjustment. ROS correlate with levels of neuronal activity and negatively regulate dendritic arbor size. Here, we investigated NADPH oxidases as potential sources of such activity-regulated ROS and implicate Dual Oxidase (but not Nox), which generates hydrogen peroxide extracellularly. We further show that the aquaporins Bib and Drip, but not Prip, are required for activity-regulated ROS-mediated adjustments of dendritic arbor size in motoneurons. These results suggest a model whereby neuronal activity leads to activation of the NADPH oxidase Dual Oxidase, which generates hydrogen peroxide at the extracellular face; aquaporins might then act as conduits that are necessary for these extracellular ROS to be channeled back into the cell where they negatively regulate dendritic arbor size.
A core of functional complementary bacteria infects oysters in Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome
Authors: Clerissi Camille , Luo Xing , Lucasson Aude , Mortaza Shogofa , de Lorgeril Julien , Toulza Eve , Petton Bruno , Escoubas Jean-Michel , Dégremont Lionel , Gueguen Yannick , Destoumieux-Garzόn Delphine , Jacq Annick , Mitta Guillaume
Published: November 2020

Background

The Pacific oysterCrassostrea gigasis one of the main cultivated invertebrate species worldwide. Since 2008, oyster juveniles have been confronted with a lethal syndrome known as the Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS). POMS is a polymicrobial disease initiated by a primary infection with theherpesvirusOsHV-1 μVar that creates an oyster immunocompromised state and evolves towards a secondary fatal bacteremia. In the present article, we describe the implementation of an unprecedented combination of metabarcoding and metatranscriptomic approaches to show that the sequence of events in POMS pathogenesis is conserved across infectious environments. We also identified a core bacterial consortium which, together with OsHV-1 μVar, forms the POMS pathobiota. This bacterial consortium is characterized by high transcriptional activities and complementary metabolic functions to exploit host’s resources. A significant metabolic specificity was highlighted at the bacterial genus level, suggesting low competition for nutrients between members of the core bacteria. Lack of metabolic competition might favor complementary colonization of host tissues and contribute to the conservation of the POMS pathobiota across distinct infectious environments.
The movement of a leaf-derived mobileAGL24mRNA specifies floral organ identity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Huang Nien-Chen , Tien Huan-Chi , Yu Tien-Shin
Published: November 2020

Cell-to-cell and inter-organ communication play pivotal roles in synchronizing and coordinating plant development. In addition to serving as templates for protein translation within cells, many mRNAs can move and exert their function non-cell-autonomously. However, because the proteins encoded by some mobile mRNAs are also mobile, whether the systemic function of mobile mRNAs is attributed to proteins transported distally or translated locally remains controversial. Here, we show that ArabidopsisAGAMOUS-LIKE 24(AGL24) mRNA acts as a leaf-derived signal to specify meristem identity.AGL24is expressed in both apex and leaves. Upon floral meristem (FM) transition, apex-expressedAGL24is transcriptionally inhibited by APETALA1 (AP1) to ensure FM differentiation. The leaf-expressedAGL24can act as a mobile signal to bypass AP1 inhibition and revert FM differentiation. AlthoughAGL24mRNA is expressed in leaves, AGL24 protein is rapidly degraded in leaves. In contrast,AGL24mRNA can move long distance from leaf to apex where the translocatedAGL24mRNAs can be used as templates to translate into proteins. Thus, the movement ofAGL24mRNA can provide the developmental plasticity to fit with environmental dynamics.
The distinct roles of calcium in rapid control of neuronal glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle
Authors: Díaz-García Carlos Manlio , Meyer Dylan J. , Nathwani Nidhi , Rahman Mahia , Martínez-François Juan Ramón , Yellen Gary
Published: November 2020

When neurons engage in intense periods of activity, the consequent increase in energy demand can be counteracted by the coordinated activation of glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. However, the trigger for glycolytic activation is unknown and the role for Ca2+in the mitochondrial responses has been debated. Using genetically-encoded fluorescent biosensors and NAD(P)H autofluorescence imaging in acute hippocampal slices, here we find that Ca2+uptake into the mitochondria is responsible for the buildup of mitochondrial NADH, probably through Ca2+activation of dehydrogenases in the TCA cycle. In the cytosol, we do not observe a role for the Ca2+/calmodulin signaling pathway, or AMPK, in mediating the rise in glycolytic NADH in response to acute stimulation. Calcium, nevertheless, is a major contributor to glycolysis, although not strictly necessary. Aerobic glycolysis in neurons is triggered mainly by the energy demand resulting from either Na+or Ca2+extrusion.

Impact Statement

When neurons are stimulated, calcium influx instructs mitochondria to increase energy metabolism, but it is increased energy demand in cytosol rather than Ca2+signaling that leads to increased neuronal glycolysis.
Quality cost management in the SMEs of Poland
Authors: Biadacz Renata
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the research problem that represents an attempt to approximate the importance of quality costing in managing a modern enterprise using the selected enterprises from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Poland.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary goal of the research is a need to acquire knowledge about the use of quality cost accounts in enterprises operating in Poland. The research has been conducted in the SMEs of production and services. From October 2018 to December 2018, survey-based research was carried out in the selected SMEs of production and service in Poland. The targeted participants of the study are from the medium-sized enterprises, employing 50–250 people.

Findings

The pilot studies conducted in companies indicate that modern enterprises are focused on quality. Many enterprises declare to be continuously improving quality system and quality costing. However, generally, these are large companies that have implemented ISO standards, often part of international corporations. The survey result of the study shows that medium-sized enterprises still make little use of modern cost accounting variants. Based on the study, only 9.75% (39 enterprises) from a representative group of 400 companies from the sectors of manufacturing, services and production as well as service companies apply quality costing. Some of the other enterprises are only taking measures to implement quality cost accounting.

Research limitations/implications

The research has been conducted in randomly selected SMEs in the form of a questionnaire interview. In order to further analyze the construction of quality cost management (QCM) systems and the use of information from QCM by enterprises, case study method should be used more widely.

Practical implications

The results of the study provide useful help for companies that are quality-oriented and want to implement quality costing. The survey has been conducted in 400 enterprises, and the survey results of considered SMEs reveal the most important aspects of the application of quality costing.

Originality/value

The questionnaire used, the answers provided and the resulting conclusions fill the identified research gap. In the author's opinion, findings of research are relevant and useful, not only for accounting practice but also for theory. They show that although TQM and quality costing have been very popular in the literature since the 1990s, the degree of application of quality costing in practice (except for large, often international companies) is too low. So, the suitability of QCM in managing a modern enterprise from the SMEs should be promoted.
Association between nonalcoholic fatty liver and increased low‐level albuminuria in postmenopausal women in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Su Wanlu , Wang Yuxia , Chen Kang , Wang Jie , Wang Anping , Tang Xulei , Yan Li , Luo Zuojie , Qin Guijun , Chen Lulu , Ning Guang , Mu Yiming
Published: November 2020

Background

Several studies have suggested that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The excretion of low‐level albuminuria (LLA) elevates as the prevalence of CVD increases. However, few studies have explored the association between NAFLD and LLA.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 31 147 Chinese adults (7664 men and 23 483 women). The “normal” level of albuminuria as determined by the urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) was below 30 mg/g. LLA was defined as a higher level within the “normal” albuminuria range (5.54 mg/g < LLA≤29.9 mg/g). The participants with NAFLD were defined as having a fatty liver index (FLI) ≥ 60. The FLI was calculated using the Bedogni equation.

Results

A positive association was found between UACR and FLI through multivariate linear regression analyses (nonstandardized β ± SE: .047 ± 0.004, P <.001). The logistic regression analyses revealed that NAFLD had adjusted odds ratios (ORs) showing a significant relationship with LLA in models 1 to 4 (all subjects: OR, 1.207; 95% CI, 1.098‐1.326; women: OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.26‐1.63; all P <.001); however, we did not find significant adjusted ORs among the men. In the stratified analyses, the relationship between NAFLD and LLA was significant among postmenopausal women with a body mass index ≥24 but <28 kg/m2, fasting plasma glucose ≥5.6 but <7.0 mmol/L, or postprandial plasma glucose ≥7.8 but <11.1 mmol/L and those aged below 60 years without moderate‐intensity exercise.

Conclusions

A noteworthy association between NAFLD and LLA was found among postmenopausal women who had borderline blood glucose values, were overweight, and did not engage in moderate‐intensity physical activity.
Rhetorical Appeals and Strategic Cooptation in the Rise and Fall of The New International Economic Order
Authors: Fioretos Orfeo
Published: November 2020

The global governance institutions that structure economic relations between industrialized and developing countries have been contested since their inception. This contribution revisits elements of the struggle over the ‘new international economic order’, or NIEO, in the 1970s. Contemporaneous observers and political leaders saw the initiative as part of the first major shift in global power after 1945. Using strategies of rhetorical coercion and persuasion that aimed to radically reform global economic governance, a large coalition of developing nations proposed a reform agenda designed to expand the authority of the United Nations and reduce the importance of Bretton Woods institutions. In response, a small coalition of industrialized countries adopted strategies of cooptation that entailed ‘case‐by‐case’ cooperation with developing countries with the goal of limiting overall reforms. The contribution uses historical archives from deliberations within and among industrialized countries to reveal the sources behind their response to the NIEO and follow‐up initiatives. It shows that industrialized countries chose to deemphasize strategies of argumentation in favor of strategies of cooptation in their efforts to limit transformative change in global economic governance.
Factors associated with gross motor development from birth to independent walking: A systematic review of longitudinal research
Authors: Boonzaaijer Marike , Suir Imke , Mollema Jurgen , Nuysink Jacqueline , Volman Michiel , Jongmans Marian
Published: November 2020

Aim

The aim of this study is to gain more insight into child and environmental factors that influence gross motor development (GMD) of healthy infants from birth until reaching the milestone of independent walking, based on longitudinal research.

Background

A systematic search was conducted using Scopus, PsycINFO, MEDLINE and CINAHL to identify studies from inception to February 2020. Studies that investigated the association between child or environmental factors and infant GMD using longitudinal measurements of infant GMD were eligible. Two independent reviewers extracted key information and assessed risk of bias of the selected studies, using the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool (QUIPS). Strength of evidence (strong, moderate, limited, conflicting and no evidence) for the factors identified was described according to a previously established classification.

Results

In 36 studies, six children and 11 environmental factors were identified. Five studies were categorized as having low risk of bias. Strong evidence was found for the association between birthweight and GMD in healthy full‐term and preterm infants. Moderate evidence was found for associations between gestational age and GMD, and sleeping position and GMD. There was conflicting evidence for associations between twinning and GMD, and breastfeeding and GMD. No evidence was found for an association between maternal postpartum depression and GMD. Evidence for the association of other factors with GMD was classified as ‘limited’ because each of these factors was examined in only one longitudinal study.

Conclusion

Infant GMD appears associated with two child factors (birthweight and gestational age) and one environmental factor (sleeping position). For the other factors identified in this review, insufficient evidence for an association with GMD was found. For those factors that were examined in only one longitudinal study, and are therefore classified as having limited evidence, more research would be needed to reach a conclusion.
CRISPR/Cas9‐induced nos2b mutant zebrafish display behavioral abnormalities
Authors: Gao Lei , Penglee Rachit , Huang Yajuan , Yi Xinxin , Wang Xiaojie , Liu Liping , Gong Xiaoling , Bao Baolong
Published: November 2020

The immunomodulatory function of nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) has been extensively studied. However, some behavioral abnormalities caused by its mutations have been found in a few rodent studies, of which the molecular mechanism remains elusive. In this research, we generated nos2b gene knockout zebrafish (nos2bsou2/sou2) using CRISPR/Cas9 approach and investigated their behavioral and molecular changes by doing a series of behavioral detections, morphological measurements, and molecular analyses. We found that, compared with nos2b+/+ zebrafish, nos2bsou2/sou2 zebrafish exhibited enhanced motor activity; additionally, nos2bsou2/sou2 zebrafish were characterized by smaller brain size, abnormal structure of optic tectum, reduced mRNA level of presynaptic synaptophysin and postsynaptic homer1, and altered response to sodium nitroprusside/methylphenidate hydrochloride treatment. These findings will likely contribute to future studies of behavioral regulation.
Krüppel‐like factor 6 promotes odontoblastic differentiation through regulating the expression of dentine sialophosphoprotein and dentine matrix protein 1 genes
Authors: Chen Z. , Xie H. , Yuan J. , Lan Y. , Xie Z.
Published: November 2020

Aim

To investigate the potential role of Krüppel‐like factor 6 (KLF6) in the odontoblastic differentiation of immortalized dental papilla mesenchymal cells (iMDP‐3) cells.

Methodology

Alizarin Red S (ARS) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining was used to examine the mineralization effect of iMDP‐3 cells after odontoblastic induction. Real‐time PCR and Western blotting were employed to analyse dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentine matrix protein 1 (DMP1), RUNX family transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), ALP and KLF6 expression during this process. Co‐expression of the KLF6 with DMP1, DSPP and RUNX2 was detected by double immunofluorescence staining to explore their local relationship in the cell. To further investigate KLF6 functions, Klf6 gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays followed by ARS and ALP stainings, real‐time PCR and Western blotting were performed using Klf6‐overexpression plasmids and Klf6 siRNA to investigate whether changes in Klf6 expression affect the odontoblastic differentiation of iMDP‐3 cells. Dual‐luciferase reporter assays were used to elucidate the mechanistic regulation of Dspp and Dmp1 expression by Klf6. Means were compared using the unpaired t‐test and Kruskal–Wallis one‐way anova with P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 defined as statistical significance levels.

Results

The expression levels of Klf6 (P < 0.01), Dspp (P < 0.05), Dmp1 (P < 0.01), Runx2 (P < 0.01) and Alp (P < 0.01) were significantly elevated during odontoblastic differentiation of iMDP‐3 cells. KLF6 was co‐localized with DSPP, DMP1 and RUNX2 in the cytoplasm and nucleus of iMDP‐3 cells. Overexpression of Klf6 promoted the odontoblastic differentiation of iMDP‐3, whereas the inhibition of Klf6 prevented this procession. Dual‐luciferase assays revealed that Klf6 upregulates Dspp and Dmp1 transcription in iMDP‐3 cells during odontoblastic differentiation.

Conclusion

Klf6 promoted odontoblastic differentiation by targeting the transcription promoter of Dmp1 and Dspp. This study may offer novel insights into strategies for treating injuries to dental pulp tissue.
Effects of endogenous and exogenous corn protein and its hydrolysates on the structural change and starch digestibility of fried corn starch
Authors: Li Wenhui , Yu Ying , Gong Shengxiang , Zhang Wei , Gu Xinzhe , Wu Jinhong , Wang Zhengwu
Published: November 2020

Frying could lead to deformation of starch granules and significant reduction in their internal crystalline structure. All of these changes could lead to rapid digestion of fried starch. The addition of corn protein and its hydrolysate to samples prior to frying can reduce the structural change of the granules and also increase their crystallinity and thermostability. Besides, both corn protein and its hydrolysates showed potent abilities in mitigating starch digestion. The fractions of slowly digestible starch and resistant starch increased significantly after the addition of corn protein or its hydrolysate. Meanwhile, the effect of removal of endogenous protein on fried starch was also examined. The results showed that, after removing the protein, starch granules were severely disintegrated during frying; most importantly, the digestibility of starch was increased significantly. The mitigating effect on corn starch digestion could be attributed to structural changes in the ordered structure and suppression of enzyme activities.
Radio frequency tempering of frozen pacific sauries (Cololabis saira) under batch and continuous mode: Temperature distribution and energy consumption evaluation
Authors: Yao Yao , Zhu Yali , He Jialing , Li Feng , Tang Juming , Koral Tony , Wongsa‐Ngasri Pisit , Jiao Yang
Published: November 2020

To investigate the influences of modes and operating parameters on the radio frequency (RF) tempering uniformity of a pack of frozen pacific sauries, a 27.12 MHz RF equipment was employed for sauries tempering with different input power and electrode gaps under batch and continuous mode. Nine frozen sauries were placed in the RF chamber and tempered under different input power (200, 400, 800, 1,600 W), electrode gaps (7, 8, 9 cm) under batch and continuous tempering mode. With a target end‐point tempering temperature of −4°C. Results showed 200 W/9 cm resulted in the longest tempering time (16.44, 15.43 min) and 1,600 W/7 cm was the shortest (2.95, 3.54 min) under batch mode tempering, respectively. The processing conditions of 200 W/9 cm and 200 W/7 cm under batch mode, and 200 W/8 cm, 200 W/9 cm, 400 W/9 cm, 800 W/8 cm under continuous mode all produced a final sample surface temperature distribution within the range of −10°C to 20°C, which indicated a reasonable tempering process. The area of the high temperature zone (10°C < T ≤ 20°C) of tempered sauries under 200 W/9 cm decreased from 0.28% to 0.23% when switching from batch to continuous mode. This implies that continuous RF tempering could reduce overheating and improve tempering uniformity of sauries.

Practical applications

Tempering rate, temperature distribution, and energy consumption are the most important concerns to researchers and the industry since tempering temperature and time are highly correlated to fish product quality. Results in this study showed both batch and continuous mode RF tempering could achieve reasonable tempering effect to a pack of frozen sauries. The application of continuous tempering system is more desirable than the batch ones, which can be applied to the tempering industry with higher throughput and connect to the following continuous processing unit operations. This study will broaden the knowledge of food engineers and provide an alternative technology of aquatic product tempering, and the parameters used in this study can assist technologists for the development of commercial equipment.
Alternative method for the diagnosis of acid cases of unknown cause: Transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery
Authors: Mat Emre , Kale Ahmet , Yıldız Gazi , Başol Gülfem , Gündogdu Elif C.
Published: November 2020

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and reliability of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) technique in making the diagnosis of ascites with unknown cause.

Methods

Seven patients with ascites with unknown cause and diagnosed with vNOTES between November 2018 and May 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. The following data were collected retrospectively: body mass index, age, parity, previous abdominal or pelvic surgery, total operating time, perioperative complications and visual analog scale scores for evaluation of postoperative pain. After general anesthesia and disinfection, a 2–3 cm incision was made in the posterior fornix of the vagina. In all of the vNOTES procedures, a handmade glove port system comprised of a glove‐wound retractor NOTES port was used.

Results

Transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery for diagnostic peritoneoscopy was successfully performed in seven patients. Following postoperative pathological examination; three patients were established to have peritoneal carcinomatosis, one patient abdominal tuberculous, one patient ovarian fibroma, one patient ovarian mature cystic teratoma and one patient stomach cancer. In 1‐year follow‐up period after vNOTES procedure, no adverse events occurred in patients.

Conclusion

In making histological diagnosis of ascites with unknown cause, vNOTES is a feasible, safe and efficient technique. Due to its high performance in diagnosis, this technique helps to initiate treatment early in some diseases in addition to preventing unnecessary treatment and examination in benign diseases. Besides, via obtaining a detailed and enlarged image of abdominal cavity, this procedure also guides the clinician in the evaluation of the suitability of patient for operation.
Paediatric intestinal failure and transplantation
Authors: Yap Jason Y K , Roberts Amin J , Bines Julie E
Published: November 2020

Intestinal failure is a complex and debilitating condition characterised by inadequate small intestinal function requiring parenteral or intravenous nutrition to maintain health and, for children, to enable growth and development. Although parenteral nutrition can be prescribed in many hospitals, children with chronic intestinal failure have improved outcomes when managed at a paediatric centre by a multidisciplinary team with specialised expertise in the comprehensive management of intestinal failure. Recent advances in the medical, surgical and nutritional approach have been effective at optimising intestinal rehabilitation and achieving enteral autonomy while limiting complications of intestinal failure. The role of intestinal transplantation in the management of the child with intestinal failure continues to evolve as an option for children with life‐threatening complications of intestinal failure. The aim of this review is to highlight key advances in the care of children with intestinal failure.
Role of IL‐6 and STAT3 signaling in dihydropyridine‐induced gingival overgrowth fibroblasts
Authors: Lu Sao‐Lun , Huang Chiung‐Fang , Li Chuan‐Li , Lu Hsein‐Kun , Chen Li‐Sheng
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This study analyzed the role of the interleukin (IL)‐6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway in dihydropyridine‐induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) fibroblasts.

Materials and methods

Tissue samples were obtained through surgical dissection from five DIGO patients and five healthy individuals. Cell cultures were conditioned with nifedipine (Nif) (0.34 µM) and stimulated with IL‐1β (10 ng/ml) to clarify whether IL‐6 upregulates extracellular matrix overproduction or has an impact on the cell proliferation rate of DIGO fibroblasts. STAT3 was knocked down using short hairpin (sh)RNA to determine its role in collagen (Col) type I alpha 1 (Colα1(I)) synthesis.

Results

Results showed that phosphorylated (p)STAT3 nuclear translocation was activated by a simulated autocrine concentration (50 ng/ml) of IL‐6, and application of an anti‐IL‐6 antibody significantly decreased the pSTAT3/STAT3 ratio in DIGO fibroblasts. STAT3 knockdown significantly decreased STAT3 and Colα1(I) expressions in DIGO cells. DIGO tissues presented stronger proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression than did healthy individuals under the effect of IL‐1β/Nif treatment.

Conclusions

Gingival inflammation (e.g., IL‐1β) and taking dihydropyridine (e.g., Nif) may additively stimulate Col overproduction through the IL‐6−STAT3−Colα1(I) cascade in DIGO cells. IL‐6–STAT3 signaling may be considered a target for the control of DIGO.
Periodontal disorders in a cohort of patients with Cohen syndrome
Authors: Lafon Arnaud , Faivre Laurence , Seux Dominique , Gautier Elodie , Duplomb Laurence , Grogogeat Brigitte , Marcelet Anahide , Laforest Laurent
Published: November 2020

Aims

Cohen syndrome (CS) is an uncommon autosomal recessive disorder due to mutations in vacuolar protein sorting 13B, with an intermittent presence of neutropenia. Contrary to other clinical phenotypic features, oral health has been little investigated in CS. We described oral health and dental hygiene in a cohort of CS patients.

Methods and Results

Twelve CS patients with neutropenia (<1500/mm3) were recruited in the dental department of Dijon University Hospital (France). Patients underwent oral examination, and blood samples were collected. Oral health markers were described and compared between patients with moderate and severe neutropenia (<500/mm3). In 12 patients (mean age = 21.1 years, SD = 13.7, six females), 45.5% brushed at least twice daily their teeth, and the same percentage annually visited a dentist. Dental plaque index was high (mean = 1.7, SD = 1.4). So was the number of lost teeth per patient, notably among adults (mean = 13.8, SD = 9.8). Elevated markers of periodontitis were noted as percentage of bleeding dental sites (mean = 70.2%, SD = 45.2%) or Gingival Index (mean = 2.2, SD = 1.0). The severity of neutropenia was correlated to the level of tooth‐loss (P = .03).

Conclusion

This study highlighted in CS patients worrisome oral health and dental follow‐up in the context of intellectual disability with behavioural anomalies. More attention is needed by care‐givers on oral condition in CS.
Are PROMs used adequately in sports research? An analysis of 54 randomized controlled trials with PROMs as endpoint
Authors: Jensen Jonas , Hansen Christian Fugl , Brodersen John , Comins Jonathan D. , Krogsgaard Michael Rindom
Published: November 2020

Deviations from adequate use and reporting of PROMs may be problematic and misleading. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent of such problems in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). RCTs involving sports medicine research that used PROMs as primary outcomes were identified in 13 preselected journals. The articles were reviewed for nine potential problems related to how the PROM was used and how the data had been reported. The potential problems were as follows: aggregating subscale scores; combining patient‐reported scores with physical, clinical, or para‐clinical measures; using a PROM to diagnose or evaluate the individual patient; using a PROM for one leg or arm; selectively excluding domains or items; constructing a PROM for the specific occasion; mixing PROM formats (ie, digital, paper, telephone, e‐mail, in person); ambiguous instructions for how the PROM should be completed; and recall bias. As covariates, we registered journal impact factor, year of publication, and existence of a registered protocol. In 29 (53.7%) of 54 identified RCTs, at least one potential problem was identified, the most common being aggregation of domain scores. This was not different with a published protocol or dependent on journal rankings, except for exclusion of domains, which was most common in high‐ranking journals. Aggregation of domain scores was significantly less common in recently published articles compared with older articles (P = .03). Potential problematic use of PROMs and reporting of PROM data are common in RCTs, also in high‐ranking journals, but less so in more recent articles.
Can psychological characteristics, football experience, and player status predict state anxiety before important matches in Danish elite‐level female football players?
Authors: Madsen Esben Elholm , Hansen Tina , Thomsen Sidsel Damsgaard , Panduro Jeppe , Ermidis Georgios , Krustrup Peter , Randers Morten B. , Larsen Carsten Hvid , Elbe Anne‐Marie , Wikman Johan
Published: November 2020

Elite football can make players feel nervous, and personality characteristics, as well as experience, affect how well pressure is handled before important games. Studying the psychological characteristics of female football players can provide information on how well psychological pressure is handled and generate knowledge on how to support players in order to improve performance. Based on a sample of 128 female elite football players from 8 top‐level teams, the present study investigates whether psychological characteristics and football experience/player stus in elite female football players can predict state anxiety before important matches. Our results outline that high age and national team experience negatively predicted most of the trait anxiety subscales. In line with previous research, no psychological differences were found between goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and strikers while starting players revealed to have significantly lower trait anxiety. When measuring before important matches, we found that somatic state anxiety was negatively associated with senior national team experience and positively associated with worry trait anxiety and fear of failure. Cognitive state anxiety was negatively associated with hope for success and positively associated with somatic and worry trait anxiety. Self‐confidence was positively associated with youth national team experience and negatively associated with worry trait anxiety. It can be concluded that psychological characteristics and national team experience are both important for optimal state anxiety before important matches in elite‐level women's football. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Developing situational awareness (‘helicopter view’)
Authors: Yoong Wai , Patra‐Das Sayantana , Jeffers Neil , Nauta Maud , Lodhi Wasim
Published: November 2020

Key contents

Reports such as Each Baby Counts and the Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths and Morbidity increasingly recognise that human factors contribute to significant events such as hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy and maternal deaths.

Loss of situational awareness (SA) has been implicated in at least 50% of such cases.

A clinician’s SA involves information gathering, comprehension of data in real time and developing the crucial skills to project ahead and anticipate potential errors and threats.

Good communication and shared mental models are important to maximise team SA in theatre, clinic and the labour ward.

Learning objectives

To understand the concept of SA.

To appreciate how SA can be lost and to recognise the ‘red flag’ signs for this.

To learn practical tips on how to maintain SA in day‐to‐day clinical practice.
Educators’ strategies for engaging diverse students in undergraduate nursing education programs: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Iduye Damilola , Vukic Adele , Waldron Ingrid , Price Sheri , Sheffer Catherine , McKibbon Shelley , Dorey Rachel , Yu Ziwa
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to identify and chart teaching strategies that educators use in classroom settings to engage diverse students in undergraduate nursing education programs.

Introduction:

Student engagement is critical to facilitating academic success and significant learning experiences for undergraduate nursing students. However, students from diverse backgrounds face challenges in undergraduate nursing programs, and these challenges impact their academic engagement and sense of belonging and inclusion. Creating conditions in nursing education that foster engagement by meeting the learning needs of diverse learners could facilitate their success, which ultimately might strengthen the nursing workforce diversity.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider papers on how educators engage undergraduate nursing students from diverse backgrounds in classroom settings, including online, face-to-face, and blended formats, irrespective of the country. Evidence obtained from all sources including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies, systematic reviews, as well as gray literature will be considered for inclusion.

Methods:

JBI methodology for scoping reviews, which includes a three-step search strategy, will be employed. First, keywords will be identified from relevant articles in CINAHL and ERIC. Second, another search using the identified keywords and index terms across select databases will be conducted. Third, the reference lists of all identified articles will be screened for additional papers. Titles and abstracts will be screened by two independent reviewers, and then followed by the full text review of included articles against the inclusion criteria by two independent reviewers. Data will be extracted from included articles and the findings will be presented in tables, figures, and narratively as appropriate.

Scoping review protocol registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/7bv5p/
Prevalence of depression in Latin America and the Caribbean: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Errazuriz Antonia , Crisostomo Natalia
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this review is to evaluate the best available evidence to determine the prevalence of depression in the general population of Latin America and the Caribbean countries.

Introduction:

Depression is a common mental disorder that affects quality of life and has been ranked as the largest contributor to non-fatal health loss. Knowledge of this disorder serves as a relevant instrument for policy makers and for the reassignment of public health resources. Although the prevalence of depression is well documented in high-income countries, little is known about the prevalence in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include studies that report the prevalence of depression in the general adult (14 years and older) population of countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Non-representative subsets of the population will be excluded.

Methods:

The search strategy will be designed to obtain both published and unpublished studies. Information sources include PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane CENTRAL, and SciELO. Sources of unpublished studies include literature from government departments, international agencies, and academic institution repositories or websites. Eligible studies will be critically appraised for methodological quality. Prevalence estimates will be statistically pooled in a meta-analysis after heterogeneity interpretation; data not appropriate for pooling will be reported in a narrative review. Finally, risk of publication bias will be studied via funnel plot analysis and the Egger test.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO (CRD42019143054)
Competency framework, methods, evaluation, and outcomes of natural disaster preparedness and response training: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Uemura Naoko , Miyazaki Misako , Okuda Hiroko , Haruyama Sanae , Ishikawa Mai , Kim Yoshiharu
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This systematic scoping review aims to clarify and map the range of natural disaster preparedness and response training for public health personnel around the world.

Introduction:

Various preparedness and response training courses, exercises, and drills for public health professionals have been developed for natural disasters. Most of these focus on developing competency. However, there is no overview of the frameworks, methods, evaluation, and outcomes of these disaster preparedness and response training courses, exercises, and drills.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider all studies that focus on the framework, evaluation, and outcome of training in natural disaster preparedness for public health personnel.

Methods:

The databases and sources to be searched will include MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL with Full Text Plus, Academic Search Premier, APA PsycINFO, and Ichushi-Web. Searches for gray literature will be conducted using websites that discuss, introduce, or provide competence-based disaster preparedness and response training. These websites will mainly be for public organizations or universities with a focus on public health. The review will consider studies published in both English and Japanese. Retrieval of full-text studies and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. The findings will be summarized in tabular form and accompanied by narrative text.
Remote Monitoring of Cancer Patient Participation in a 12-Week Online Yoga Study: Challenges and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Eckert Ryan , Huberty Jennifer , Kosiorek Heidi , Clark-Sienkiewicz Shannon , Larkey Linda , Mesa Ruben
Published: November 2020

Introduction: The delivery of online interventions in cancer patients/survivors has increased. The measurement of participation in online interventions is important to consider, namely, the challenges of the remote assessment of activity. The purpose of this study was to report the measures used to assess intervention compliance and other physical activity participation in two online yoga studies, the relationship between the multimethod measures used, and the ability of cancer patients to complete these measures. Methods: The methods described are of two online yoga studies (feasibility and pilot). Cancer patients were asked to participate in 60 min/week of online yoga for 12 weeks, complete a weekly yoga log, wear a Fitbit daily for 12 weeks, and complete a weekly physical activity log. Finally, Clicky®, a web analytics software, was used to track online yoga participation. Results: Eighty-four people participated across both studies, with 63/84 participating in online yoga, averaging 57.5 ± 33.2 min/week of self-reported yoga participation compared to 41.4 ± 26.1 min/week of Clicky® yoga participation (Lin concordance = 0.28). All 84 participants averaged 95.5 ± 111.8 min/week of self-reported moderate/vigorous physical activity compared with 98.1 ± 115.9 min/week of Fitbit-determined moderate/vigorous physical activity (Lin concordance = 0.33). Across both studies, 82.9% of the yoga logs were completed, the Fitbit was worn on 75.2% of the days, and 78.7% of the physical activity logs were completed. Conclusions: Weak relationships between self-report and objective measures were demonstrated, but the compliance rates were above 75% for the study measures. Future research is needed, investigating the intricacies of self-report physical activity participation in remote interventions and the validation of a gold standard measurement for online interventions.