bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective bioconversion of farmed chicken products by black soldier fly larvae at commercially relevant growth temperatures
Authors: Logan Lily A. P. , Latty Tanya , Roberts Thomas H.
Published: March 2021

Global population growth and an increasing demand for meat has driven the intensification of livestock production. On poultry farms, the accumulation of waste such as faeces, carcasses and unsellable eggs creates environmental and health hazards that need to be mitigated. The larvae of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens; BSFL) offer a potential solution to the problems of waste management on poultry farms. BSFL consume large quantities of organic waste and convert it into larval biomass, which can then be processed for use as livestock feeds or biofuels. This makes BSFL an ideal candidate for value‐added waste management on chicken farms. Here, we examined the development and nutrient profile of BSFL given five different diet treatments: poultry feed (control), chicken meat, chicken egg, chicken manure and a mixture of equal parts chicken meat, egg and manure. Chicken meat, egg and mixed diets were all found to be suitable feedstocks for BSFL, but the manure‐only treatment was associated with a high failure rate of larval development. Mixing manure with other poultry waste streams ameliorated the negative impacts of manure on BSFL. Larvae reared on chicken meat, egg and the mixed diet had equal or higher mean crude protein (CP) (39.9%, 33.8% and 31.5%, respectively) and crude lipid (CL) contents (30.1%, 29.00% and 28.7%, respectively), compared with BSFL reared exclusively on chicken feed (CP: 30.9%, CL: 23.8%), demonstrating the suitability of these waste‐stream diets for the potential animal feed quality of the BSFL. We discuss how BSFL bioconversion could be implemented to address environment management issues on poultry farms.
The perceptions of healthcare professionals about accreditation and its impact on quality of healthcare in Kuwait: a qualitative study
Authors: Katoue Maram Gamal , Somerville Susan Geraldine , Barake Roula , Scott Mairi
Published: March 2021

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The accreditation of healthcare organizations has been applied as a quality assurance mechanism of healthcare services. Kuwait health authorities implemented a national healthcare accreditation program at the governmental healthcare system. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of healthcare professionals (HCPs) about healthcare accreditation, perceived challenges to implementing accreditation, and views on how to overcome these challenges.

Methods

A phenomenological qualitative framework was adopted to conduct focus group interviews to explore perceptions of HCPs about accreditation in governmental healthcare system. Data were collected from 30 HCPs using seven focus group interviews. The verbatim transcripts of the interviews were analysed using the framework approach.

Results

The HCPs indicated that accreditation enhanced patient safety culture at their organizations through staff adherence to good practices, improved documentation and patient handover practices, and incident reporting. The facilitators to the implementation of accreditation that emerged from interviews included administrative support, staff training about accreditation, and expansion in application of electronic systems. Participants reported several challenges to implementing accreditation including challenges related to staff (eg, high workload, burdens imposed by accreditation requirements), challenges related to organizational system and resources (eg, poor teamwork among HCPs, inadequate infrastructure in some facilities), and challenges related to patients (eg, poor understanding about accreditation). However, most participants expressed positive attitudes towards accreditation and appreciated its impact on quality of healthcare. Participants suggested ways to support accreditation such as increasing staff numbers to reduce workload, enhancing staff motivation and education about accreditation, developing proactive leadership and staff teamwork, and improving patients' awareness about accreditation.

Conclusions

HCPs in Kuwait expressed positive attitudes towards accreditation while also recognizing the challenges that may hinder its implementation. The collaboration between different stakeholders in this process is essential to overcome these challenges and support HCPs to meet accreditation standards and improve quality of healthcare services.
Agreement between the categorization of isolates of Aeromonas salmonicida and Yersinia ruckeri by disc diffusion and MIC tests performed at 22℃
Authors: Baron Sandrine , Larvor Emeline , Jouy Eric , Kempf Isabelle , Le Bouquin Sophie , Chauvin Claire , Boitard Pierre‐Marie , Jamin Matthieu , Le Breton Alain , Thuillier Benoit , Smith Peter
Published: March 2021

Standard disc diffusion and MIC test procedure were used to investigate the susceptibility of two hundred and fifty‐one isolates collected from infected fish in France to florfenicol, oxolinic acid and tetracycline. The tests were performed at 22 ± 2℃ and for the 177 Yersinia ruckeri they were read after 24–28 hr incubation and for the 74 Aeromonas salmonicida isolates they were read after 44–48 hr. Applying epidemiological cut‐off values to the susceptibility data generated in these tests, the isolates were categorized as wild‐type or non‐wild‐type. The agent‐specific categories into each isolate were placed on the basis of the data generated by the two methods were in agreement in 98% of the determinations made. It is argued that, with respect to categorising isolates, disc diffusion and MIC methods can be considered as equally valid at this temperature and after both periods of incubation.
Fractional carbon dioxide laser versus trichloroacetic acid peel in the treatment of pseudo‐acanthosis nigricans
Authors: Eldeeb Fatma , Wahid Reham M. , Alakad Rania
Published: March 2021

Background

Treatment of acanthosis nigricans (AN) is challenging, and new modalities are being explored continuously to increase the therapeutic efficacy.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser compared to trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel in the treatment of pseudo‐acanthosis nigricans (pseudo‐AN).

Methods

The study included 40 patients with pseudo‐AN on the neck and axilla allocated into two groups each containing 20 patients. Group (A) was treated with TCA 20% peel applied on the pigmented area while group (B) received fractional CO2 laser. Both treatments were performed till complete clearance or for a maximum of four treatment sessions. Patients with excellent response were further followed up for 6 months after the end of treatment.

Results

Both modalities were effective in the treatment of pseudo‐AN; however, the therapeutic response was significantly higher in the fractional CO2 laser group compared to the TCA peel group (p < 0.01). Marked to excellent response (51%–100% clearance of AN lesions) was achieved in 85% of the patients in the fractional laser group versus 10% of the patients in the TCA group. Adverse effects, for example, persistent erythema, post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and burning sensation, were also statistically higher in the TCA group compared to the laser group (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Fractional CO2 laser is a promising effective and well‐tolerated treatment modality for pseudo‐acanthosis nigricans.
Intralesional methotrexate versus triamcinolone acetonide for localized alopecia areata treatment: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hamdino Mervat , El‐Barbary Rasha Aly , Darwish Hanan Mohammed
Published: March 2021

Background

Multiple therapeutic modalities are available for alopecia areata (AA) but still a challenging disease with variable severity, recurrence, and a major cosmetic concern.

Aims

Compare the effectiveness and safety of intralesional methotrexate (MTX) versus triamcinolone acetonide (TrA) in the treatment of localized AA in adults, both clinically and trichoscopically.

Patients/Methods

40 adult patients with localized AA were recruited and divided into two groups. 20 patients were treated by intralesional TrA and the other 20 patients were treated by intralesional MTX every 3 weeks, for maximum four sessions. Clinical and trichoscopic evaluation at baseline, each session and for 3 months after the last session was performed.

Results

At the end of sessions (12 weeks), regrowth scale was significantly higher in TrA group compared to MTX group (p‐value = 0.028). But, after 3‐month follow‐up, regrowth scale was higher in MTX group compared to TrA group (p‐value = 0.153). A statistically significant reduction in AA specific trichoscopic signs after 12 weeks and at the 3‐month follow‐up in both groups. Local adverse events in both groups were transient and disappeared during the follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Intralesional MTX in treatment of localized AA in adults can be promising and comparable to intralesional TrA with the need for further controlled and extensive trials. Trichoscopy can reveal early clinical response through disappearance of AA‐specific trichoscopic signs and also early detection of adverse effects.
Effect of plantar reflexology on labor pain and childbirth experience: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Jameei‐Moghaddam Massoumeh , Goljaryan Sakineh , Mohammad Alizadeh Charandabi Sakineh , Taghavi Simin , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: March 2021

Aim

This study aimed to determine the effect of plantar reflexology on the severity of labor pain and childbirth experience (primary outcomes) and the duration of labor stages (secondary outcomes).

Methods

This single‐blind randomized controlled trial was performed on 90 women in Al‐Zahra and Taleghani hospitals in Tabriz‐Iran. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups; Intervention 1 (two 30‐min massages at the effective point of pain for each sole), intervention 2 (one 30‐min massage at the effective point of pain and one 30‐min massage at the heel for each sole), and control (two 30‐minute heel massages). Massage was performed once in 4‐cm dilatation and the second time in 7‐cm dilatation. The severity of pain and childbirth experience were measured by Visual Analogue Scale and Labor Agentry Scale, respectively. Partograph chart was used to measure the length of labor stages.

Results

The severity of pain in intervention group 1 was significantly lower than the control group (AMD: −1.7; 9% confidence interval: −2.8 to −0.6; p = 0.001), but there was no significant difference between intervention groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.066) and intervention group 2 and control (p = 0.336). A significant difference was observed between groups in terms of length of the third stage of labor (p = 0.04). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of mean childbirth experience score (p = 0.217), duration of active phase (p = 0.099), and second stage of labor (p = 0.114).

Conclusion

The results of the study showed that plantar reflexology can reduce the severity of labor pain and the length of third stage of labor.
Clinical characteristics of uterine rupture without previous Cesarean section: A 25‐year retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Peng , Su Chang , Wang Caifeng , Xu Junbi , Bai Xiaoxia
Published: March 2021

Aim

To investigate the clinical characteristics and risk factors of uterine rupture without preceding Cesarean section.

Methods

The medical records of all deliveries at the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine between 1992 and 2017 were reviewed. All cases of uterine rupture without previous Cesarean delivery were included. Two types of uterine rupture, incomplete and complete, were distinguished. The clinical characteristics of each patient were collected and analyzed, including demographic information, clinical manifestation, operative records, site of rupture, pregnancy and labor complication, obstetrics risk factors, and birth outcome.

Results

There were 222 418 deliveries in total during the study period. Nineteen cases of uterine rupture without previous Cesarean section were identified. As a result, the incomplete rupture group had significant advanced gestational age, decreased maternal gravidity, lower incidence of dilation and curettage, and lower perinatal mortality rate. In aspect of the rupture site, the involvement of the lower segment of the uterus was significantly more common in the incomplete rupture group. In the complete rupture group, the participants with a gestation age less than 28 weeks were more likely to have a history of dilation and curettage than those with a gestation age over 28 weeks.

Conclusions

The history of dilation and curettage is the major risk factor of uterine rupture without Cesarean section. Our findings imply that obstetricians should be cautious of spontaneous uterine rupture in pregnant women who has a history of dilation and curettage.
Recurrent sigmoid volvulus: Cause of colon perforation, sepsis, and fetal death
Authors: Simsek Deniz , Ozgen Gulten
Published: March 2021

Sigmoid volvulus is one of the most common reasons for intestinal obstruction. Recurrent sigmoid volvulus occurred in only a few cases. Torsion of the sigmoid colon around the mesenteric portion initiates ischemia, gangrene, and perforation. Here, we presented a case with recurrent sigmoid volvulus. A 19‐year‐old Syrian refugee has been admitted to emergency room during 30th gestation week with acute abdomen, constipation, and lack of gas passage. She had a medical history of rectosigmoidoscopy and detorsion of sigmoid volvulus 6 days ago. Her vital signs showed tachycardia, hypotension, and tachypne, and her body temperature was 35.6°C. Sonography revealed nonviable fetus. Emergency laparotomy has been performed. Sigmoid volvulus and contaminated intraperitoneal area with feces was evaluated. A cesarean section, total colectomy, and end‐ileostomy have been performed. Patient stayed 3 days in intensive care unit and was discharged on the 17th day. Sigmoid volvulus is a real emergency. Delayed treatment of sigmoid volvulus is related to maternal and fetal mortality.
Kelp‐associated Microbiota are Structured by Host Anatomy1
Authors: Lemay Matthew A. , Davis Katherine M. , Martone Patrick T. , Parfrey Laura Wegener
Published: March 2021

Seaweed‐associated microbiota are essential for the health and resilience of nearshore ecosystems, marine biogeochemical cycling, and host health. Yet much remains unknown about the ecology of seaweed–microbe symbioses. In this study, we quantified fine‐scale patterns of microbial community structure across distinct anatomical regions of the kelp Laminaria setchellii. These anatomical regions represent a gradient of tissue ages: perennial holdfasts can be several years old, whereas stipe epicortex and blades are younger annual structures. Within blades, new growth occurs at the base, while the blade tips may be several months old and undergoing senescence. We hypothesized that microbial communities will differ across anatomical regions (holdfast, stipe, blade base, and blade tip), such that younger tissues will harbor fewer microbes that are more consistent across replicate individuals. Our data support this hypothesis, with the composition of bacterial (16S rRNA gene) and microeukaryote (18S rRNA gene) communities showing significant differences across the four anatomical regions, with the surfaces of older tissues (holdfast and blade tips) harboring significantly greater microbial richness compared to the younger tissues of the meristematic region. Additional samples collected from the surfaces of new L. setchellii recruits (<1y old) also showed differences in microbial community structure across anatomical regions, which demonstrates that these microbial differences are established early. We also observed this pattern in two additional algal species, suggesting that microbial community structure across host anatomy may be a common feature of the seaweed microbiome.
Stable isotopic signatures of sediment carbon and nitrogen sources and its relation to benthic meiofaunal distribution in the Arctic Kongsfjord
Authors: Jima Mantodi , Jayachandran Paravanparambil Rajakumar , Bijoy Nandan Sivasankaran , Krishnapriya Pariyakkara Parameswaran , Aswathy Nikathithara Kumaran , Krishnan Kottekkatu Padinchati , Harikrishnan Mahadevan , Radhakrishnan Cherupillil Kumaran
Published: March 2021

The present study investigated the relationship of sediment attributes to meiofaunal composition pattern and its food source in the Kongsfjord. Sediment in the fjord is dominated with silty clay fractions. Ten meiofaunal groups contributed to the meiofaunal composition in the fjord with the dominance of foraminiferans, nematodes and tintinnids. The total density of fauna ranged from 1 ind./10 cm2 to 1,560 ind./10 cm2 whereas the biomass ranged from 0.06 ± 0.002 μg/10 cm2 to 605.1 ± 7.19 μg/10 cm2. On comparing with previous studies, our data exhibited a significant decrease in the overall density and biomass of the meiofauna. Sediment δ13C values were relatively low in the fjord that varied from −21.6‰ to −22.9‰, and this could be due to low CO2 concentrations in the ambient environment. The isotopic value proves that the carbon supply in the fjord sediment is linked to the marine source largely from single‐celled phytoplankton in the photic zones. Isotope value of δ15N increases in the fjord system when marine productivity is relatively high; that also varies from 4.6‰ to 6.8‰, further suggesting that the origin of fjord sediment nitrogen is supplied from the nutrient‐rich warm Atlantic water masses contributing to high marine production in the fjord. TOC/TN values in the fjord were lower than 10%, which also supports our hypothesis that Kongsfjord sediment organic matter was received mainly from marine source.
Exploration of the inter‐annual variability and multi‐scale environmental drivers of European spiny lobster, Palinurus elephas (Decapoda: Palinuridae) settlement in the NW Mediterranean
Authors: Muñoz Anabel , Goñi Raquel , Linares Cristina , Kersting Diego , Stobart Ben , Mallol Sandra , Zabala Mikel , Díaz David
Published: March 2021

Determining the drivers of key ecological processes of commercial marine species is important to acquire basic and essential knowledge for fisheries management and conservation. Here we report on a long‐term monitoring of the settlement of the European spiny lobster, Palinurus elephas, the most commercially important spiny lobster species in the Mediterranean and north‐eastern Atlantic. Densities of recently settled individuals (early benthic juveniles – EBJs) were recorded annually, as an approximation to annual settlement, from 2000 to 2016 (17 years) in three zones of the north‐western Mediterranean: Catalonia (CAT), the Columbretes Islands (COL), and the Balearic Islands (BAL). Settlement, the end point that integrate most of the variability occurred during dispersion, is a complex ecological process governed by the interaction of biotic and abiotic factors that can be in turn influenced by the atmospheric and oceanographic conditions. Using linear regression of the size structure of EBJs, we demonstrate that settlement occurs synchronously in the three study zones. Densities of EBJs were handled as time series, and regression analysis revealed that CAT and COL covaried significantly, but none of them with BAL. Therefore, CAT and COL were analysed together using generalized linear model and much of their joint variability was explained by the mesoscale oceanographic index IDEA. Settlement in BAL showed a different pattern, explained by the joint effect of the atmospheric oscillations NAO and WEMO. Complexity of P. elephas settlement cannot be fully accounted neither for CAT‐COL nor for BAL because settlement seems be driven by more complex unknown multi‐factorial processes. Therefore, further studies are necessary to gain insight into other factors that allow short‐ or medium‐term predictions of settlement. Expanding the study area across the Mediterranean would also allow establishing a complete knowledge of the ecology of the species applicable to the management of the fishery.
Henri de Lubac’s “Mystical Confrontation” with Nietzsche
Authors: Gardner Patrick X.
Published: March 2021

Henri de Lubac is well‐known for his critical writings on atheist humanists like Friedrich Nietzsche, whom he saw as the most formidable opponent of Christianity. However, few have appreciated the extent to which de Lubac’s confrontation with Nietzsche provided him with an additional motive for creatively retrieving early Christian sources. This article examines de Lubac’s engagement with Nietzsche across his career, focusing on his interpretation of Nietzsche as a mystic. It demonstrates how de Lubac’s understanding of Nietzsche’s mysticism is informed by his resistance to anti‐Semitism and his critique of rationalism in the contemporary French Church. It also shows how this confrontation occasioned some of de Lubac’s most important thoughts on the apologetic value of the Catholic mystical tradition. De Lubac’s response to Nietzsche, therefore, has significant implications for understanding his theology as a whole and the nature of Christian engagement with contemporary atheism.
Skewed Th17/Treg balance during progression and malignant transformation of oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Liu Sixuan , Liu Ziyi , Shan Zhongyan , Liu Yuxin , Chen Tianjun , Fang Liangjuan , Quan Hongzhi
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The aim of our study was to determine the impact of Th17/Treg imbalance on the progression and malignant transformation of oral submucosal fibrosis (OSF).

Materials and Methods

To assess Th17 and Treg expression, overall 52 peripheral blood samples from OSF, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients, and healthy donors were analyzed by flow cytometry. Thirty normal oral mucosa, 72 OSF, and 90 OSCC samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In peripheral blood samples, in OSCC with OSF, Th17 and Treg expression were significantly higher than those in OSF and OSCC without OSF as confirmed by immunohistochemistry. During OSF progression, Th17 and Th17/Treg ratio showed an increasing trend, while Treg expression showed a decreasing trend. Treg expression was significantly higher in OSCC with OSF than in OSF and OSCC without OSF, whereas the Th17/Treg ratio was significantly lower in OSCC with OSF. Treg expression was significantly correlated with smoking and clinical stage. Th17/Treg ratio was significantly associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage. A low Th17/Treg ratio was significantly associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Th17/Treg ratio is a potential diagnostic indicator for OSF occurrence and malignant transformation and was an independent prognostic factor for OSCC.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Precise In Situ Decompression for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Gao Jin‐mei , Yuan Yu , Gong Ke‐tong , Ma Xin‐long , Chen Xin
Published: March 2021

Objective

To explore the effect of locating the ulnar nerve compression sites and guiding the small incision so as to decompress the ulnar nerve in situ on the elbow by high‐frequency ultrasound before operation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 56 patients who underwent ultrasound‐assisted in situ decompression for cubital tunnel syndrome from May 2018 to August 2019. The patients' average age was 51.13 ± 7.35 years, mean duration of symptoms was 6.51 ± 1.96 months, and mean postoperative follow‐up was 6.07 ± 0.82 months. Nine patients had Dellon's stage mild, 39 had stage moderate, and eight had stage severe. Ultrasound and electromyography were completed in all patients before operation. The presence of ulnar nerve compressive lesion, the specific location, and the reason and extent of compression were determined by ultrasound. A small incision in situ surgery was given to decompress the ulnar nerve according to the pre‐defined compressive sites.

Results

All patients underwent in situ decompression. The compression sites around the elbow were as follows: two in the arcade of Struthers, one in the medial intermuscular septum, four in the anconeus epitrochlearis muscle, five beside the cyst of the proximal flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), and the remaining 44 cases were all from the compression between Osborne's ligament to the two heads of the FCU. The compression localizations diagnosed by ultrasound were confirmed by operations. Preoperative ultrasound confirmed no ulnar nerve subluxation in all cases. The postoperative outcomes were satisfactory. There was no recurrence or aggravation of symptoms in this group of patients according to the modified Bishop scoring system; results showed that 43 cases were excellent, 10 were good, and three were fair.

Conclusions

High‐frequency ultrasound can accurately and comprehensively evaluate the ulnar nerve compression and the surrounding tissues, thus providing significant guidance for the precise minimally invasive treatment of ulnar nerve compression.
KnetMiner: a comprehensive approach for supporting evidence‐based gene discovery and complex trait analysis across species
Authors: Hassani‐Pak Keywan , Singh Ajit , Brandizi Marco , Hearnshaw Joseph , Parsons Jeremy D. , Amberkar Sandeep , Phillips Andrew L. , Doonan John H. , Rawlings Chris
Published: March 2021

The generation of new ideas and scientific hypotheses is often the result of extensive literature and database searches, but, with the growing wealth of public and private knowledge, the process of searching diverse and interconnected data to generate new insights into genes, gene networks, traits and diseases is becoming both more complex and more time‐consuming. To guide this technically challenging data integration task and to make gene discovery and hypotheses generation easier for researchers, we have developed a comprehensive software package called KnetMiner which is open‐source and containerized for easy use. KnetMiner is an integrated, intelligent, interactive gene and gene network discovery platform that supports scientists explore and understand the biological stories of complex traits and diseases across species. It features fast algorithms for generating rich interactive gene networks and prioritizing candidate genes based on knowledge mining approaches. KnetMiner is used in many plant science institutions and has been adopted by several plant breeding organizations to accelerate gene discovery. The software is generic and customizable and can therefore be readily applied to new species and data types; for example, it has been applied to pest insects and fungal pathogens; and most recently repurposed to support COVID‐19 research. Here, we give an overview of the main approaches behind KnetMiner and we report plant‐centric case studies for identifying genes, gene networks and trait relationships in Triticum aestivum (bread wheat), as well as, an evidence‐based approach to rank candidate genes under a large Arabidopsis thaliana QTL. KnetMiner is available at: https://knetminer.org.
The role of melanocytes in the human choroidal microenvironment and inflammation: Insights from the transcriptome
Authors: Cioanca Adrian V. , Wu Chieh‐Lin (Stanley) , Natoli Riccardo , Conway R. Max , McCluskey Peter J. , Jager Martine J , Sitiwin Ephrem I. , Eamegdool Steven S. , Madigan Michele C.
Published: March 2021

The choroid within the human eye contains a rich milieu of cells including melanocytes. Human choroidal melanocytes (HCMs) absorb light, regulate free radical production, and were recently shown to modulate inflammation. This study aimed to identify key genes and pathways involved in the inflammatory response of HCMs through the use of RNA‐seq. Primary HCMs were cultured from donor choroids, RNA was extracted from control and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated HCMs, and mRNA was sequenced. Functional annotation and pathway analysis were performed using gene ontology and gene set enrichment analyses. Representative RNA‐seq results were verified with RT‐qPCR and protein measurements. We detected 100 differentially expressed genes including an array of CCL and CXCL cytokines and mediators of cell–cell and cell–matrix adhesion, such as ICAM1, CLDN1, CCN3, ITGA1 and ITGA11. Functional annotation showed that these gene sets control inflammatory pathways, immune cell trafficking, cell–cell adhesion, interactions with the extracellular matrix and blood vessels, angiogenesis and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transitions. Our study provides insights into the transcriptional regulation of primary HCMs in response to inflammatory stimuli and identifies novel melanocyte‐driven mechanisms potentially involved in choroidal homeostasis and inflammation.
Bowel‐associated dermatosis‐arthritis syndrome in a child with very early onset inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Havele Sonia A. , Clark Ashley K. , Oboite Michelle , Conrad Máire A. , Perman Marissa J. , Rubin Adam I. , Treat James R.
Published: March 2021

A 6‐year‐old boy with severe very early‐onset inflammatory bowel disease (VEO‐IBD) was admitted for 1 week of high fevers, loose stools, joint pains, and myalgias. He subsequently developed a progressive, papular, and vesiculopustular eruption on his face with rapid spread to his trunk and extremities. Histopathology demonstrated dense dermal neutrophilic inflammation. Findings were consistent with bowel‐associated dermatosis‐arthritis syndrome (BADAS), which is rarely reported in children and requires further characterization.
Risks for acquiring hepatitis C virus among women in the United States
Authors: Watts Theresa , Lauver Diane , Snedden Traci , Zahner Susan
Published: March 2021

Objective

To conduct a literature review about the breadth of risks for acquiring hepatitis C virus (HCV) among women who are living in the United States.

Design

A mixed research synthesis of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed‐methods studies guided by the Socioecological Model and Theory of Gender and Power.

Sample and Analytic Strategy

The sample consisted of 29 studies: 10 qualitative, 18 quantitative, and one mixed‐methods studies. Data were analyzed using a segregated approach and integrated into a narrative synthesis of themes by components of the Socioecological Model.

Results

Individual risks themes were drug use as a coping strategy, transition to injection drug use, and lack of awareness about HCV. Interpersonal risks themes were social norms of drug use and drug use and sexual activities. Community risks themes were community re‐entry, housing instability, and community HCV resources. Societal risks themes are policies affecting drug markets and social construct of “worthlessness.”

Conclusions

Findings highlight the need for comprehensive gender‐specific HCV prevention strategies built around harm reduction. In partnership with women with lived experience, public health nurses can apply findings to build harm reduction collaborations aimed at implementing HCV risk‐reduction or risk‐elimination strategies.
North Korean women’s reproductive health experience
Authors: Han Jung Jin , Oh Seung Jin
Published: March 2021

Objectives(s)

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of women's reproductive health in North Korea through statements from North Korean female refugees.

Design and Sample

A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using Colaizzi's methods. Through purposive and snowball sampling, a total of eight North Korean women refugees were recruited.

Measures

Data were collected through in‐depth, unstructured interviews with individual participants.

Results

A total of 18 themes, eight theme clusters, and three categories emerged. The three categories of North Korean women's reproductive health experience were: distorted sexual concepts, internalization of sexual repression, and threat of women's health rights. The study on the reproductive health experiences of North Korean women was based on the premise that their “right to health was threatened due to the internalization of sexual repression by distorted sexual concepts.”

Conclusion

The reproductive health of North Korean women must be approached as a fundamental right, and as a human and health right.
Re‐Evaluation of Rat Corneal Damage by Short‐Wavelength UV Revealed Extremely Less Hazardous Property of Far‐UV‐C†
Authors: Kaidzu Sachiko , Sugihara Kazunobu , Sasaki Masahiro , Nishiaki Aiko , Ohashi Hiroyuki , Igarashi Tatsushi , Tanito Masaki
Published: March 2021

Corneal damage‐induced various wavelength UV (311, 254, 235, 222 and 207 nm) was evaluated in rats. For 207 and 222‐UV‐C, the threshold radiant exposure was between 10 000 and 15 000 mJ cm−2 at 207 nm and between 3500 and 5000 mJ cm−2 at 222 nm. Penetrate depth to the cornea indicated by cyclobutene pyrimidine dimer (CPD) localization immediately after irradiation was dependent on the wavelength. 311 and 254 nm UV penetrate to corneal endothelium, 235 nm UVC to the intermediate part of corneal stroma, 222 and 207 nm UVC only to the most outer layer of corneal epithelium. CPD observed in corneal epithelium irradiated by 222 nm UVC disappeared until 12 h after. The minimum dose to induce corneal damage of short‐wavelength UV‐C was considerably higher than the threshold limit value (TLV®) promulgated by American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). The property that explains why UV‐C radiation at 207 and 222 nm is extremely less hazardous than longer UV wavelengths is the fact that this radiation only penetrates to the outermost layer of the corneal epithelium. These cells typically peel off within 24 h during the physiological turnover cycle. Hence, short‐wavelength UV‐C might be less hazardous to the cornea than previously considered until today.
RB1 gene mutations are a distinct predictive factor in Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Muto Yusuke , Ryo Eijitsu , Namikawa Kenjiro , Takahashi Akira , Ogata Dai , Fujimura Taku , Yatabe Yasushi , Aiba Setsuya , Yamazaki Naoya , Mori Taisuke
Published: March 2021

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that tends to show local recurrence and metastasis. Typically, MCC is polyomavirus (MCPyV)‐associated and cytokeratin 20 (CK20) positive. However, little is known about this tumor and its origins. Here, we aimed to determine the developmental origins of MCC and to identify prognostic clinicopathologic factors. Initial examinations revealed that CK20 and MCPyV expression (CK20+, MCPyV+ (60%); CK20+, MCPyV− (10%); CK20−, and MCPyV− (30%)) did not affect overall survival. With RB1 gene sequencing of FFPE specimens, which covered an entire exon, all RB1 mutation‐positive cases showed positive regional lymph node and/or distant metastases (8/8 cases, 100%), whereas the frequency of the metastasis was statistically significantly lower in RB1 mutation‐negative cases, (10/16 cases, 62%, P = 0.033). The results were also confirmed with immunohistochemistry, and either RB1 alterations, entire exon sequencing, or immunohistochemistry was associated with the metastasis (P = 0.007). RB1 alterations may be used to access the aggressive clinical course of MCC.
Identification of RNA silencing suppressor encoded by wheat blue dwarf (WBD) phytoplasma
Authors: Wang L. , Chen W. , Ma H. , Li J. , Hao X. , Wu Y.
Published: March 2021

Plants possess an innate immune system for defence against pathogens. In turn, pathogens have various strategies to overcome complex plant defences. Among diverse pathogens, phytoplasmas are associated with serious diseases in a range of species. RNA silencing serves as an efficient defence system against pathogens in eukaryotes but can be interrupted by RNA silencing suppressors (RSSs) encoded by pathogens. Currently, many RSSs have been identified in viruses, bacteria, oomycetes and fungi. Phytoplasmas are pathogens in several hundred plant species.

In this research, 37 candidate effectors of wheat blue dwarf (WBD) phytoplasma were screened for presence of RSS. Agro‐infiltration assay, yeast expression system, floral‐dip method for constructing transgenic A. thaliana, Western blotting and RT‐qPCR were used for identification of RNA silencing suppressors.

SWP16 encoded by WBD phytoplasma was found to be a secretory protein that inhibited accumulation of GFP siRNA and led to the accumulation of GPF mRNA in systemic N. benthamiana 16c. Furthermore, in A. thaliana SWP16 inhibited production of miRNAs, which are components of RNA silencing. SWP16 also promoted infection of potato virus X.

We conclude that SWP16 encoded by WBD phytoplasma was an RSS, suppressing systemic RNA silencing. This is the first evidence that a phytoplasma encodes an RSS and provides a theoretical basis for research on the interaction mechanisms between pathogens and plants.
A drought‐responsive rice amidohydrolase is the elusive plant guanine deaminase with the potential to modulate the epigenome
Authors: Gotarkar Dhananjay , Longkumer Toshisangba , Yamamoto Naoki , Nanda Amrit Kaur , Iglesias Tamara , Li Lin‐Feng , Miro Berta , Blanco Gonzalez Elisa , Montes Bayon Maria , Olsen Kenneth M. , Hsing Yue‐Ie Caroline , Kohli Ajay
Published: March 2021

Drought stress in plants causes differential expression of numerous genes. One of these differentially expressed genes in rice is a specific amidohydrolase. We characterized this amidohydrolase gene on the rice chromosome 12 as the first plantguanine deaminase(OsGDA1). The biochemical activity of GDA is known from tea and coffee plants where its catalytic product, xanthine, is the precursor for theine and caffeine. However, no plant gene that is coding for GDA is known so far. RecombinantOsGDA1converted guanine to xanthine in vitro. Measurement of guanine and xanthine contents in theOsGDA1knockout (KO) line and in the wild type Tainung 67 rice plants also suggested GDA activity in vivo. The content of cellular xanthine is important because of its catabolic products allantoin, ureides, and urea which play roles in water and nitrogen stress tolerance among others. The identification ofOsGDA1fills a critical gap in the S‐adenosyl‐methionine (SAM) to xanthine pathway. SAM is converted to S‐adenosyl‐homocysteine (SAH) and finally to xanthine. SAH is a potent inhibitor of DNA methyltransferases, the reduction of which leads to increased DNA methylation and gene silencing in Arabidopsis. We report that theOsGDA1KO line exhibited a decrease in SAM, SAH and adenosine and an increase in rice genome methylation. The OsGDA1 protein phylogeny combined with mutational protein destabilization analysis suggested artificial selection for null mutants, which could affect genome methylation as in the KO line. Limited information on genes that may affect epigenetics indirectly requires deeper insights into such a role and effect of purine catabolism and related genetic networks.
The role of social support in the association between dependency and important risk factors among the elderly
Authors: Cui PingYu , Chen Yuan , Li YaXing , Wali Nuremaguli , Li Ying
Published: March 2021

Background

This study aimed to assess the association between social resources and dependency, and explored the effect of social support in modifying important risk factors for dependency among the elderly.

Methods

This was a population‐based cross‐sectional study. A total of 950 participants aged ≥60 years were selected using a complex multistage sampling design from 22 locations in China. All data were collected using questionnaires by face‐to‐face interviews. Dependency was assessed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory‐II, and social resource status with the Chinese version of the Older American Resources and Services (OARS) questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between dependency and social resources. Analysis of covariance was performed to evaluate the effect of social support on modifications of important risk factors for dependency.

Results

A total of 913 participants were included in the analysis, and 10.3% of the males and 14.4% of the females were identified as in dependency. The results of logistic regression analysis showed a significant negative association between the levels of social resources and dependency. The odds ratio was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.84) after adjusting for important confounding factors. The results of analysis of covariance showed differences in the mean dependency scores between different groups defined by chronic disease status and social support level.

Conclusions

Levels of social resources were negatively associated with dependency. Our results suggest that social support has both a direct effect on dependency and an indirect effect through modifying chronic disease status and individual income.
Energy Regionalisms in Theory and Practice
Authors: Johnson Corey , VanDeveer Stacy D.
Published: March 2021

Regionalism has long conceptual and empirical histories across social sciences, and areas of the international and transnational practice of economics, imperialism, and environmental governance. However, energy regionalism remains in the early stages of development both conceptually and empirically. This article reviews three areas of diverse and interdisciplinary scholarship, including international relations, geography, and regional environmental governance, and draws lessons for research agendas associated with energy regionalism. It draws insights from recent work on comparative regionalisms, together with critical perspectives from geography scholarship, conceptualizing regionness as potentially subnational and transnational, as well as inter‐state. Recent geographical literature examines regions and regionalisms as both sets of relational networks and territorial entities, with infrastructure playing a central role around questions of energy. The use of regionalism in international relations literatures, around regionally‐framed environmental cooperation regimes, offers another set of conceptual and empirical lessons for an energy regionalism research agenda. Arguing that these areas have much to contribute to the study of a conceptual and theoretically diverse understanding of energy regionalisms research, the piece concludes by identifying five nodes for theorizing empirical research on energy regionalism: constructing regionness; inequality, money and power; epistemic and normative dimensions; diffusion and institutional hybridization; and scaling regionalism.
Resting metabolic rate is increased in hypertensive patients with overweight or obesity: Potential mechanisms
Authors: Pedrianes‐Martin Pablo B. , Perez‐Valera Mario , Morales‐Alamo David , Martin‐Rincon Marcos , Perez‐Suarez Ismael , Serrano‐Sanchez Jose A. , Gonzalez‐Henriquez Juan Jose , Galvan‐Alvarez Victor , Acosta Carmen , Curtelin David , de Pablos‐Velasco Pedro , Calbet Jose A. L.
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether differences in body composition, pharmacological treatment, and physical activity explain the increased resting metabolic rate (RMR) and impaired insulin sensitivity in hypertension. Resting blood pressure, RMR (indirect calorimetry), body composition (dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry), physical activity (accelerometry), maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (ergospirometry), and insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index) were measured in 174 patients (88 men and 86 women; 20–68 years) with overweight or obesity. Hypertension (HTA) was present in 51 men (58%) and 42 women (49%) (p = .29). RMR was 6.9% higher in hypertensives than normotensives (1777 ± 386 and 1663 ± 383 kcal d−1, p = .044). The double product (systolic blood pressure × heart rate) was 18% higher in hypertensive than normotensive patients (p < .001). The observed differences in absolute RMR were non‐significant after adjusting for total lean mass and total fat mass (estimated means: 1702 kcal d−1, CI: 1656–1750; and 1660 kcal d−1, CI: 1611–1710 kcal d−1, for the hypertensive and normotensive groups, respectively, p = .19, HTA × sex interaction p = .37). Lean mass, the double product, and age were the variables with the higher predictive value of RMR in hypertensive patients. Insulin sensitivity was lower in hypertensive than in normotensive patients, but these differences disappeared after accounting for physical activity and VO2max. In summary, hypertension is associated with increased RMR and reduced insulin sensitivity. The increased RMR is explained by an elevated myocardial oxygen consumption due to an increased resting double product, combined with differences in body composition between hypertensive and normotensive subjects.
Effects of biochar incorporation on soil viable and necromass carbon in the luvisol soil
Authors: Zhang YuLan , Xie HongTu , Wang FuPing , Sun Caixia , Zhang XuDong
Published: March 2021

Biochar amendments generally enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation. Little is known about soil carbon sequestration and stabilization, particularly via the path of living microbial biomass (MBC) and dead microbial biomass (amino sugar tissue C, AS‐C) with biochar incorporation. In a maize field trial in north‐eastern China, maize straw‐derived biochar was applied at four dosages levels of 0, 22.5, 67.5 and 112.5 t·ha‐1(CK, D1, D2 and D3). The SOC, MBC, MBC/SOC (qMB), AS‐C (GluN: glucosamine; GalN: galactosamine; and MurA: muramic acid), AS‐C/SOC and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) were quantified during five corn‐growing stages. The differences between the principal component analysis results of each pair of treatments were significant. The soil MBC, SOC and qMB were significantly linearly correlated with biochar dosage. These results indicate that biochar incorporation still accelerated the microbial C pool and the turnover after 3 years. Biochar addition enhanced the AS‐C pools slightly. The addition of biochar increased the fungi and bacteria PLFAs and their ratios, but it only slightly influenced the GluN/MurA. The biochar dosages and growing stages had significant interactive effects on MBC, qMB, GluN‐C, MurA‐C and AS‐C, but not on SOC, GalN‐C and AS‐C/SOC. The growing stages had significant impacts on all of the indexes, except for GluN/MurA. These results collectively suggest that increasing the biochar amendment dosage further stimulates the microbial activity, particularly that of the fungal communities, while retaining the dead microbial biomass residues and their structural stability.
Adherence to blood product transfusion guidelines—An observational study of the current transfusion practice in a medical intensive care unit
Authors: Sadana Divyajot , Kummangal Basheer , Moghekar Ajit , Banerjee Kinjal , Kaur Simrat , Balasubramanian Shailesh , Tolich Deborah , Han Xiaozhen , Wang Xiaofeng , Hanane Tarik , Mireles‐Cabodevila Eduardo , Quraishy NurJehan , Duggal Abhijit , Krishnan Sudhir
Published: March 2021

Background

Blood transfusions though life‐saving are not entirely benign. They are the most overused procedure in the hospital and have been under scrutiny by the ‘Choosing Wisely campaign’. The strict adoption of restrictive transfusion guidelines could improve patient outcomes while reducing cost.

Objectives

In this study, we evaluate adherence to restrictive transfusion guidelines, along with hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS) in transfusion events with a pre‐transfusion haemoglobin (Hb) ≥7 g/dl. Additionally, we evaluated associated costs accrued due to unnecessary transfusions.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study in a 64‐bed medical intensive care unit (MICU) of an academic medical centre involving all adult patients (N = 957) requiring packed red blood cell transfusion between January 2015 and December 2015.

Results

In total, 3140 units were transfused with a mean pre‐transfusion Hb of 6.75 ± 0.86 g/dl. Nine hundred forty‐four (30%) transfusion events occurred with a pre‐transfusion Hb ≥7 g/dl, and 385 (12.3%) of these occurred in patients without hypotension, tachycardia, use of vasopressors, or coronary artery disease. Forgoing them could have led to a savings of approximately 0.3 million dollars. Transfusion events with pre‐transfusion Hb ≥7 g/dl were associated with an increased mortality in patients with acute blood loss (odds ratio [OR] 2.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11–3.88; p = 0.02) and LOS in patients with chronic blood loss (β1.8.26, 95% CI 4.09–12.43; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

A subset of anaemic patients in the MICU still receive red blood cell transfusions against restrictive guidelines offering hospitals the potential for effective intervention that has both economic and clinical implications.