bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilisation of telehealth for outpatient diabetes management during COVID‐19 pandemic: how did the patients fare?
Authors: Wong Vincent W. , Wang Alexandra , Manoharan Manimegalai
Published: July 2021

Background

During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, many outpatient services at public hospitals, including diabetes services, had adopted telehealth appointments for their clinic patients. There was concern that patients' glycaemic control may worsen during the pandemic.

Aim

To assess glycaemic control of patients with diabetes attending telehealth consultations in 2020, compared to face‐to‐face reviews prior to pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with diabetes managed by telehealth consultations over 5 months at two metropolitan hospitals in Sydney. Their attendance rate, glycaemic control and unplanned admissions to hospital were assessed, and these were compared with the same period 12 months prior when patients were reviewed via face‐to‐face appointments.

Results

Between April and September 2020, the attendance rate for telehealth consultation at the diabetes services at the two hospitals was 88.9% (884 out of 994), which was higher than in 2019 (85.2%; 818 out of 959; P = 0.016) when patients attended via face‐to‐face appointments. Of the 629 patients reviewed via telehealth in 2020 and who had been with our service for over 12 months, glycaemic control was better in 2020 (HbA1c 7.8 ± 1.4% (62 ± 15 mmol/mol)) compared with 12 months earlier (8.2 ± 1.7% (66 ± 19 mmol/mol); P < 0.001). There was no difference in the number of unplanned admissions for this cohort in 2020 (n = 58; 9.2%) compared with 2019 (n = 75; 11.9%; P = 0.100).

Conclusions

The present study showed that for patients with diabetes who received care via telehealth consultations during the COVID‐19 lockdown, their glycaemic control was slightly better, and unplanned admission rates were not higher compared with those in the pre‐COVID‐19 period. Telehealth consultation offers an important care delivery option in the management of patients with diabetes under these circumstances.
Telehealth in Australian cardiology: insight into factors predicting the use of telephone versus video during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Rowe Stephanie J. , Paratz Elizabeth D. , Fahy Louise , Prior David L. , MacIsaac Andrew I.
Published: July 2021

Background

The use of telehealth has increased dramatically in Australia in 2020 as a pragmatic response to the COVID‐19 pandemic; however, differences between telehealth modalities have not been established.

Aim

To identify characteristics contributing to choosing telephone (TP) versus video consultation (VC) and assess patient outcomes between telehealth modalities.

Methods

We conducted an observational study of cardiology outpatients at a tertiary hospital with appointments from 17 March 2020 to 12 August 2020. Demographic variables and appointment modality were compared between each group. Outcomes assessed were mortality, emergency department (ED) presentations and cross over between appointment modalities.

Results

There were 1754 telemedicine encounters with 1188 patients seen by TP and 327 patients by VC. Consulting volume increased from previous years. Cardiac mortality was low (0.3%). There were no differences in mortality or ED presentations between telehealth modalities. Patients choosing TP over VC were older (P < 0.001), more likely to be female (P = 0.005), non‐English‐speaking (P = 0.041), living in metropolitan Melbourne (P < 0.0001), undertaking a first appointment (P = 0.002) and seeing particular cardiologists (P < 0.001). VC patients were more likely to have early review (P = 0.015), and this was likely to be TP (P < 0.0001). TP patients were more likely to follow up in person (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

During COVID‐19, we increased consultation volumes without adverse patient outcomes. We identified factors influencing the choice of telemedicine modality which did not translate into differences in mortality or ED presentations. Telemedicine is a growing platform with an important role of facilitating access to healthcare for diverse patient groups.
Immigration Status Uncertainty and Mental Health—Evidence from Brexit
Authors: Braakmann Nils
Published: July 2021

The decision of the UK to leave the European Union created uncertainty for European citizens resident in the UK for the period 2016–2019. This paper studies the effects of this uncertainty on their mental health. Using data from a large household panel and a difference‐in‐differences framework, we find no evidence for a decline in mental health or life satisfaction for various definitions of EU citizens relative to multiple control groups. These findings are robust to the specific mental health measure. We corroborate this finding by looking at various channels plausibly linking Brexit and European citizens’ mental health.
Pressure injury prevalence and risk factors in Chinese adult intensive care units: A multi‐centre prospective point prevalence study
Authors: Lin Frances Fengzhi , Liu Yu , Wu Zijing , Li Jing , Ding Yanming , Li Chunyan , Jiang Zhixia , Yang Jing , Wang Kefang , Gao Jie , Li Xiaohan , Xia Xinhua , Liu Hongmei , Li Xinxia , Chen Xiaoyan , Yang Lei , Fang Xiuhua , Zhao Ronghua , Chen Jingfang , Labeau Sonia , Blot Stijn ,   on behalf of the DecubICUs Study China Team, the DecubICUs Study Team, and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) Trials Group Collaborators
Published: July 2021

Despite increasing preventive efforts, pressure injury still occurs in intensive care patients. This study was aimed to describe pressure injury prevalence, risk factors, and prevention practices in adult intensive care patients. This was a multi‐centre, one‐day, prospective point prevalence study in which a total of 198 intensive care units from 21 provinces in China participated. Overall and ICU‐acquired prevalence in intensive care patients were 12.26% and 4.31%, respectively. Consistent with earlier reports, almost half of the ICU‐acquired pressure injuries were at stage I, one‐fourth were at stage 2, and the most common body sites for pressure injuries were sacral and heel region. Risk factors identified were consistent with prior studies. Repositioning was the most commonly used pressure injury prevention strategy, followed by alternating pressure mattresses/overlays, floating heels, and air‐filled mattresses/overlays. These reflect a good level of adherence to recommended international pressure injury prevention clinical practice guidelines. The results provide a baseline reference for overall and ICU‐acquired prevalence among adult intensive care patients in China. Future research on what contributed to the lower pressure injury incidence in China needs to be conducted to inform healthcare organisations on their future preventive strategies for pressure injury prevention.
Developing a conceptual model of older patients’ decision‐making process in choosing dialysis or conservative care using meta‐ethnography
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Son Youn‐Jung
Published: July 2021

Aims

To systematically review and synthesize qualitative evidence related to decision‐making for treatment modalities among older adults with end‐stage renal disease.

Design

A meta‐synthesis of the qualitative research was conducted.

Data sources

A comprehensive literature review using PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Sciences and Cochrane was systematically conducted. Qualitative studies published in English from January 2010 to October 2020 were considered.

Review methods

Qualitative studies were systematically identified and critically appraised. Data synthesis was performed independently by two reviewers. This review followed the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research statement.

Results

Seven qualitative studies, with publication years ranging from 2015 to 2019, were included in the analysis. Overall, the review comprised studies with a total of 133 participants aged between 61 and 93 years. Through meta‐synthesis, three themes were identified: ‘reflecting on treatment options’, ‘confronting difficult decisions’ and ‘maintaining hope in everyday life’.

Conclusion

Our findings reflect that older adults have varying preferences for treatment options. These preferences are influenced by various factors such as considering the possibility of opting for dialysis and the practical applicability of treatment options. The synthesized conceptual model serves as the first step towards the conceptualization of the treatment‐related decision‐making process facilitated by adequate communication, in which patients should be encouraged to speak up, and healthcare providers should listen actively to their patients. This review can provide a strategy for providers to communicate treatment options with older patients with ESRD.

Impact

Healthcare providers should be sensitive to older adults’ preferences, priorities and treatment goals related to worrying about burdening their families and their outlook on life before deciding treatment modality. Our findings highlight that shared decision‐making should be tailored to each of the older patients to provide comprehensive and individualized patient‐centred care.
Relationships between dyadic coping, intimate relationship and post‐traumatic growth in patients with breast cancer: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shi Genya , Shi Tieying , Liu Yu , Cai Yingjie
Published: July 2021

Aim

To investigate the relationships and pathways between dyadic coping, intimate relationship and post‐traumatic growth (PTG) in Chinese patients with breast cancer.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Between November 2019 and November 2020, 133 patients with breast cancer who received therapy in tertiary grade‐A hospitals at Dalian, China completed questionnaires including demographic and clinical questionnaires, Locke–Wallace Marriage Adjustment Test, Chinese version of the Dyadic Coping Inventory and Chinese version of the Post‐traumatic Growth Inventory. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the pathways.

Results

Dyadic coping was positively interrelated with PTG and intimate relationship (r = .355, p < .01; r = .213, p < .05); intimate relationship was negatively interrelated with PTG (r = −.207, p < .05). The structural equation model demonstrated adequate fit. Dyadic coping and intimate relationship directly affected PTG (β = .469, p < .05; β = −.309, p < .05). Dyadic coping indirectly affected PTG through intimate relationship (β = −.066, p < .05).

Conclusions

Dyadic coping was a stimulus factor, but intimate relationship was an obstructive factor in enhancing PTG for the Chinese patients with breast cancer. Furthermore, intimate relationship may have significant mediating effects in the link between dyadic coping and PTG. Strategies that improve dyadic coping level and avoid excessive intimacy relationships between couples contribute to the development of PTG among patients with breast cancer.

Impact

The research provides new ideas and intervention entry points for global nurses and psychotherapists so that they can enact and implement targeted PTG intervention plans for patients with breast cancer worldwide.
Students' abilities to evaluate the credibility of online texts: The role of internet‐specific epistemic justifications
Authors: Hämäläinen Elina K. , Kiili Carita , Räikkönen Eija , Marttunen Miika
Published: July 2021

Previous evaluation studies have rarely used authentic online texts and investigated upper secondary school students' use of evaluation criteria and deep reasoning. The associations between internet‐specific epistemic justifications for knowing and credibility evaluation of online texts are not yet fully understood among adolescents. This study investigated upper secondary school students' (N = 372) abilities to evaluate self‐selected authentic online texts and the role of internet‐specific epistemic justifications in students' evaluation performance when solving a health‐related information problem. Students selected three texts with Google Custom Search Engine and evaluated their credibility. Students' evaluation performance across the three texts was determined according to the different aspects evaluated (author, venue, intentions, evidence and corroboration) and the depth of their evaluations. Students also filled in the Internet‐Specific Epistemic Justifications (ISEJ) inventory previously validated with pre‐service teachers. The results revealed considerable differences in students' abilities to evaluate online texts. Students' beliefs in justification by authority and justification by multiple sources positively predicted their evaluation performance similarly in both topics. The findings suggest that the ISEJ inventory is also valid for upper secondary school students. Students should be explicitly taught to evaluate different credibility aspects and scaffolded to deeply engage with online information.
Increased glycolysis in skeletal muscle coordinates with adipose tissue in systemic metabolic homeostasis
Authors: Xiang Cong , Zhang Yannan , Chen Qiaoli , Sun Aina , Peng Yamei , Zhang Guoxin , Zhou Danxia , Xie Yinyin , Hou Xiaoshuang , Zheng Fangfang , Wang Fan , Gan Zhenji , Chen Shuai , Liu Geng
Published: July 2021

Insulin‐independent glucose metabolism, including anaerobic glycolysis that is promoted in resistance training, plays critical roles in glucose disposal and systemic metabolic regulation. However, the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. In this study, through genetically manipulating the glycolytic process by overexpressing human glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), hexokinase 2 (HK2) and 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase‐fructose‐2,6‐biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) in mouse skeletal muscle, we examined the impact of enhanced glycolysis in metabolic homeostasis. Enhanced glycolysis in skeletal muscle promoted accelerated glucose disposal, a lean phenotype and a high metabolic rate in mice despite attenuated lipid metabolism in muscle, even under High‐Fat diet (HFD). Further study revealed that the glucose metabolite sensor carbohydrate‐response element‐binding protein (ChREBP) was activated in the highly glycolytic muscle and stimulated the elevation of plasma fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), possibly mediating enhanced lipid oxidation in adipose tissue and contributing to a systemic effect. PFKFB3 was critically involved in promoting the glucose‐sensing mechanism in myocytes. Thus, a high level of glycolysis in skeletal muscle may be intrinsically coupled to distal lipid metabolism through intracellular glucose sensing. This study provides novel insights for the benefit of resistance training and for manipulating insulin‐independent glucose metabolism.
First 1,000 days: enough for mothers but not for children? Long‐term outcomes of an early intervention on maternal depressed mood and child cognitive development: follow‐up of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tomlinson Mark , Skeen Sarah , Melendez‐Torres G. J. , Hunt Xanthe , Desmond Chris , Morgan Barak , Murray Lynne , Cooper Peter J , Rathod Sujit D. , Marlow Marguerite , Fearon Pasco
Published: July 2021

Background

Child cognitive development is often compromised in contexts of poverty and adversity, and these deficits tend to endure and affect the child across the life course. In the conditions of poverty and violence that characterise many low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC), the capacity of parents to provide the kind of care that promotes good child development may be severely compromised, especially where caregivers suffer from depression. One avenue of early intervention focuses on the quality of the early mother–infant relationship. The aim of this study was to examine the long‐term impact of an early intervention to improve the mother–infant relationship quality on child cognitive outcomes at 13 years of age. We also estimated the current costs to replicate the intervention.

Method

We re‐recruited 333 children from an early childhood maternal–infant attachment intervention, ‘Thula Sana’, when the children were 13 years old, to assess whether there were impacts of the intervention on child cognitive outcomes, and maternal mood. We used the Kaufman Assessment Battery to assess the child cognitive development and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) and the Self‐Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ‐20) to assess maternal mental health.

Results

Effect estimates indicated a pattern of null findings for the impact of the intervention on child cognitive development. However, the intervention had an effect on caregiver psychological distress (PHQ‐9, ES = −0.17 [CI: −1.95, 0.05] and SRQ‐20, ES = −0.30 [CI: −2.41, −0.19]), but not anxiety. The annual cost per mother–child pair to replicate the Thula Sana intervention in 2019 was estimated at ZAR13,365 ($780).

Conclusion

In a socio‐economically deprived peri‐urban settlement in South Africa, a home visiting intervention, delivered by community workers to mothers in pregnancy and the first six postpartum months, had no overall effect on child cognitive development at 13 years of age. However, those caregivers who were part of the original intervention showed lasting improvements in depressed mood. Despite the fact that there was no intervention effect on long‐term child outcomes, the improvements in maternal mood are important.
Lower handgrip strength levels probably precede triglyceride glucose index and associated with diabetes in men not in women
Authors: Zheng Jia , Zhang Lu , Jiang Min
Published: July 2021

Aims/Introduction

To explore the relationship between handgrip strength per weight (HGS/W), triglyceride glucose index (TyG) and diabetes, and whether lower HGS levels precede TyG in the Chinese elderly population.

Materials and Methods

Two linear regression models were used to explore the association of whether baseline HGS/W predicted follow‐up variation of TyG or baseline TyG predicted follow‐up variation of HGS/W. The logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between baseline HGS/W and future diabetes.

Results

A total of 4,561 participants in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were enrolled, of which 47.0% were men, and the mean age was 58.7 years (standard deviation 8.68 years). A lower baseline HGS/W significantly correlated with a higher level of follow‐up TyG (β = −0.173, P = 0.002). The baseline level of HGS/W was significantly negatively associated with the incidence risk of diabetes (rate ratio 0.375, P = 0.004). However, in sex stratification, the statistical association between HGS/W and TyG and diabetes was only in men.

Conclusions

Our results showed that HGS/W was inversely associated with TyG and diabetes, and lower HGS/W levels preceded TyG levels in the elderly population. However, the effect was inconsistent between men and women, and the possible mechanism would require further clarification.
Evaluation of the antiviral activity of naringenin, a major constituent of Typha angustifolia, against white spot syndrome virus in crayfish Procambarus clarkii
Authors: Sun Zhong‐Chen , Chen Cheng , Xu Fei‐Fan , Li Bing‐Ke , Shen Jing‐Lei , Wang Tao , Jiang Hai‐Feng , Wang Gao‐Xue
Published: July 2021

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a serious pathogen threatening global crustacean aquaculture with no commercially available drugs. Herbal medicines widely used in antiviral research offer a rich reserve for drug discovery. Here, we investigated the inhibitory activity of 13 herbal medicines against WSSV in crayfish Procambarus clarkii and discovered that naringenin (NAR) has potent anti‐WSSV activity. In the preliminary screening, the extracts of Typha angustifolia displayed the highest inhibitory activity on WSSV replication (84.62%, 100 mg/kg). Further, NAR, the main active compound of T. angustifolia, showed a much higher inhibition rate (92.85%, 50 mg/kg). NAR repressed WSSV proliferation followed a dose‐dependent manner and significantly improved the survival of WSSV‐challenged crayfish. Moreover, pre‐ or post‐treatment of NAR displayed a comparable inhibition on the viral loads. NAR decreased the transcriptional levels of vital genes in viral life cycle, particularly for the immediately early‐stage gene ie1. Further results showed that NAR could decrease the STAT gene expression to block ie1 transcription. Besides, NAR modulated immune‐related gene Hsp70, antioxidant (cMnSOD, mMnSOD, CAT, GST), anti‐inflammatory (COX‐1, COX‐2) and pro‐apoptosis‐related factors (Bax and BI‐1) to inhibit WSSV replication. Overall, these results suggest that NAR may have the potential to be developed as preventive or therapeutic agent against WSSV.
Genetics and metabolic engineering of yeast strains for efficient ethanol production
Authors: Adebami Gboyega E. , Kuila Arindam , Ajunwa Obinna M. , Fasiku Samuel A. , Asemoloye Michael D.
Published: July 2021

Bioethanol production from monomeric sugar is performed by several yeasts. But there are several limitations associated with yeast strains such as their low tolerance to ethanol, toxic inhibitors, and high sugar concentration. Genetic and metabolic engineering of potential yeast strains can overcome the above limitations. The present article summarized current genetic and metabolic engineering approaches for the development of yeast strain for efficient ethanol production. The review systematically examined bioethanol generations based on substrate utilization, criteria for strain selections, strategies for strain improvements including randomized mutagenesis, genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, genome editing, whole genome (re)sequencing, promoter engineering, quantitative trait locus analysis, protein engineering, and evolutionary engineering. Different fermentation technologies employed in hydrolysate fermentation including low gravity (LG), high gravity (HG), and very high gravity (VHG) as well as challenges of yeast strains development and its future prospect have been critically evaluated in this article. Significant engineering efforts are imminent for yeast‐based second‐generation biofuel to leave a demonstration phase through strain improvement and become economically competitive with fossil fuel.

Practical Applications

This is a comprehensive review of yeast strain development for bioethanol production. The readers should be able to acquire some basic knowledge on:

The accompanied substrates for bioethanol generations as well as the technologies and challenges behind them.

The criteria to consider in selecting yeast strain for bioengineering development.

Different strategies and their reported applications employed in yeast strain development including randomized mutagenesis, genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, genome editing, whole genome (re)sequencing, promoter engineering, quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis, protein engineering, and evolutionary engineering.

Challenges and merits of different fermentation technologies employed in hydrolysate fermentation including LG, HG, and VHG.

Possible challenges to encounter in developing yeast strain for bioethanol production.

Desirable traits to consider in the selection and development of yeast strains for bioethanol production.
Transplantation of autologous fat, stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cell, and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) for cell therapy of atrophic acne scars: Clinical evaluation and biometric assessment
Authors: Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali , Heidari‐Kharaji Maryam , Alavi Shiva , Nouri Maryam , Nikkhah Nahid , Jahangiri Faezeh , Mahmoudbeyk Mona , Peyrovan Aisan , Baiat Tork Batool , Torkamaniha Elham , Zare Sona
Published: July 2021

Background

Scarring is an unfortunate result of acne because it causes the psychological and cosmetic problems for the patients. Unfortunately, no single treatment is suitable, and using multiple methods may have a better result. The autologous fat and stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells and their secretory factors can enhance the angiogenesis, collagen synthesis, and migration of fibroblasts, therefore regenerate hurt tissues. Moreover, other treatments for acne scarring, such as platelet‐rich plasma (PRP), induce the increase in scare.

Aims

This study aimed to verify the effectiveness of transplantation of autologous fat, SVF cells, and PRP as cell therapy techniques on atrophic acne scars.

Patients/Methods

This study included 9 adult patients with atrophic acne scars on face. All patients received the transplantation of autologous fat, stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells, and PRP. The treatment outcome was measured by biometric assessment (VisioFace 1000 D, Colorimeter, multi‐probe adapter Cutometer, Tewameter, Mexameter, and skin ultrasound imaging system), and also, the satisfaction of patients was evaluated. The patients were followed 6 months after the treatment.

Results

There was a significant improvement in the skin pores, spots, skin lightness and melanin content of skin, skin elasticity, and TEWL (transepidermal water loss) after 6 months of the treatment. Furthermore, denser skin layers were observed both in the epidermis and in the dermis. Moreover, 66.6% of patients showed good satisfaction after the treatment.

Conclusion

In brief, the transplantation of autologous fat, SVF cells, and PRP is an effective cell therapy for atrophic acne scars.
Outcomes of fetoscopic laser surgery for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome between 26 and 27 weeks of gestation in Japan
Authors: Takano Mayumi , Nakata Masahiko , Ishii Keisuke , Wada Seiji , Sumie Masahiro , Yamamoto Ryo , Ozawa Katsusuke , Sakuma Junya , Nagasaki Sumito , Sago Haruhiko
Published: July 2021

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP) for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in Japan.

Methods

The retrospective cohort study (2012–2018) was conducted in monochorionic twin pregnancies that underwent FLP for TTTS between 26 and 27 weeks from 2012 to 2018. The perioperative data, maternal complications, gestational age (GA) at delivery, neonatal complications, and survival of infants at 28 days of age were analyzed. At term‐equivalent age, severe neurological complications were identified by imaging study.

Results

Of 644 patients, 28 (4.3%) underwent FLP between 26 and 27 weeks, and 26 were analyzed. FLP procedures were technically successful in all cases. There were no cases of major maternal complications after surgery. Preterm rupture of membranes occurred in 34.6% of cases, and the mean GA at delivery was 33.2 ± 3.1 weeks. The survival of both twins was found in 23 (88.4%) cases, and the perinatal survival rate of at least one twin at 28 days of age was 100%. Severe neurological complications were found in six (12.2%) cases out of 49.

Conclusions

FLP for TTTS between 26 and 27 weeks provided a good prognosis and caused no major maternal complications. However, severe neurological findings were found in 12% of infants.
Biomarkers in premature calves with and without respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Ider Merve , Naseri Amir , Ok Mahmut , Uney Kamil , Erturk Alper , Durgut Murat K. , Parlak Tugba M. , Ismailoglu Nimet , Kapar Muhammed M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Approaches to the evaluation of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in premature calves by using lung‐specific epithelial and endothelial biomarkers are needed.

Objective

To investigate the evaluation of PAH in premature calves with and without respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) by using lung‐specific epithelial and endothelial biomarkers and determine the prognostic value of these markers in premature calves.

Animals

Fifty premature calves with RDS, 20 non‐RDS premature calves, and 10 healthy term calves.

Methods

Hypoxia, hypercapnia, and tachypnea were considered criteria for RDS. Arterial blood gases (PaO2, PaCO2, oxygen saturation [SO2], base excess [BE], and serum lactate concentration) were measured to assess hypoxia. Serum concentrations of lung‐specific growth differentiation factor‐15 (GDF‐15), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and surfactant protein D (SP‐D) were measured to assess PAH.

Results

Arterial blood pH, PaO2, SO2, and BE of premature calves with RDS were significantly lower and PaCO2 and lactate concentrations higher compared to non‐RDS premature and healthy calves. The ADMA and SP‐D concentrations of premature calves with RDS were lower and serum ET‐1 concentrations higher than those of non‐RDS premature and healthy calves. No statistical differences for GDF‐15 and VEGF were found among groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Significant increases in serum ET‐1 concentrations and decreases in ADMA and SP‐D concentrations highlight the utility of these markers in the diagnosis of PAH in premature calves with RDS. Also, we found that ET‐1 was a reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for PAH and predicting mortality in premature calves.
Gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes: Findings from North Indian pregnancy cohort
Authors: Chowdhury Ranadip , ▪ Nitika , Choudhary Tarun Shankar , Dhabhai Neeta , Mittal Pratima , Dewan Rupali , Kaur Jasmine , Chaudhary Ritu , Tamaria Anuradha , Bahl Rajiv , Taneja Sunita , Bhandari Nita
Published: July 2021

Despite the high prevalence of inadequate gestational weight gain (GWG) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, very few studies have addressed the association between GWG and pregnancy outcomes in South Asia. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of GWG during the second and third trimesters within, below and above the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines, and to estimate the effect of the rate and adequacy of GWG on gestational age at the time of delivery, weight, length, length‐for‐age z‐score (LAZ), weight‐for‐length z‐score (WLZ) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, namely prematurity, small‐for‐gestational age (SGA), low birth weight (LBW), stunting and wasting at birth. We analysed data from the intervention group of the Women and Infants Integrated Interventions for Growth Study (WINGS), which is an ongoing individually randomized factorial design study. Of the 1332 women analysed, 40.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 37.5 to 42.8] had GWG below the IOM guidelines. For every 100‐g/week increase in GWG, birth weight increased by 61 g, birth length by 0.16 cm, LAZ score by 0.08 SD, WLZ score by 0.14 SD, and gestational age at birth by 0.48 days. Women with GWG below the IOM guidelines had a higher relative risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (44% for LBW, 27% for SGA, 32% for stunting and 42% for wasting at birth) than women who had GWG within the IOM guidelines, except for prematurity. The association between GWG and LAZ scores at birth was modified by early pregnancy body mass index (BMI). GWG is a strong predictor of newborn anthropometric outcomes and duration of gestation but not prematurity.
Cassava diseases caused byXanthomonas phaseolipv.manihotisandXanthomonas cassavae
Authors: Zárate‐Chaves Carlos A. , Gómez de la Cruz Diana , Verdier Valérie , López Camilo E. , Bernal Adriana , Szurek Boris
Published: July 2021

Xanthomonas phaseolipv.manihotis(Xpm) andX. cassavae(Xc) are two bacterial pathogens attacking cassava. Cassava bacterial blight (CBB) is a systemic disease caused by Xpm, which might have dramatic effects on plant growth and crop production. Cassava bacterial necrosis is a nonvascular disease caused by Xc with foliar symptoms similar to CBB, but its impacts on the plant vigour and the crop are limited. In this review, we describe the epidemiology and ecology of the two pathogens, the impacts and management of the diseases, and the main research achievements for each pathosystem. Because Xc data are sparse, our main focus is on Xpm and CBB.
Elucidating morpho‐anatomical, physio‐biochemical and molecular mechanism imparting salinity tolerance in oats (Avena sativa)
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Anuragi Hirdayesh , Rana Maneet , Priyadarshini Parichita , Singhal Rajesh , Chand Subhash , Indu  , Sood Vinod Kumar , Singh Sultan , Ahmed Shahid
Published: July 2021

Soil salinization drastically affects crop growth, development and yield. In order to tackle salinity, knowledge about stress tolerance mechanism is important to expedite the development of salt‐tolerant cultivars. In this study, 20 oat genotypes consisting of 11 cultivated and nine wild Avena species were evaluated at different levels of salinity with 1:1 NaCl and Na2SO4 salts mixtures under hydroponics and pot experimental set‐up. Drastic reduction was observed in chlorophyll, relative water and K+/Na+ contents, along with yield traits in sensitive genotypes (HFO‐103, Kent and JHO‐2000‐4) when compared with tolerant (HJ‐8, JHO‐99‐2, HFO‐873 and HFO‐878) under elevated salinity. Root anatomical section studies were also critical to screen salinity tolerance among the oat genotypes. Furthermore, the effect of salinity at the transcriptomic level resulted in upregulation of sodium/hydrogen exchanger and potassium transporter genes along with WRKY17 transcription factor, regulating the signalling and osmotic roles in tolerant genotypes (HJ‐8 and HFO‐873). The identified salt‐tolerant oat genotypes reflected wide genetic diversity using SSR markers which can serve as a crucial donor for salt tolerance in oat breeding programmes.
Heterogeneous cutaneous findings associated with intrauterine HSV infection: A case series and literature review
Authors: Pithadia Deeti J. , Kerns Michelle L. , Golden William C. , Balagula Yevgeniy , Glick Sharon A. , Huang Amy , Natsis Nicola E. , Tom Wynnis L. , Cohen Bernard A.
Published: July 2021

Background/Objective

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection acquired in utero may present with non‐vesicular dermatologic findings in affected newborns, which may pose a diagnostic dilemma. We aimed to describe and assess the range of non‐vesiculobullous skin lesions that neonates with intrauterine HSV infection may manifest at birth.

Methods

We collected a multicenter case series and conducted a literature review of neonates with intrauterine HSV infection presenting with non‐vesiculobullous cutaneous lesions.

Results

Twenty‐two cases were reviewed, including six managed clinically by members of our team and 16 identified in the literature. Four (18%) were associated with twin pregnancies, and thirteen (59%) cases occurred in premature infants. Only four (18%) mothers had a documented history of HSV infection. Twelve (55%) cases resulted in poor outcomes, including long‐term neurologic sequelae or death. Cutaneous manifestations included erosions, ulcerations, crusted papules or plaques, calcinosis cutis, excoriations, macules (erythematous, hypopigmented, or hyperpigmented), cutaneous atrophy, contractures, and bruising. About one‐third of neonates developed new‐onset vesicular lesions within a week of birth; in each of these cases, accurate diagnosis and therapy were delayed until appearance of vesicles.

Conclusions

The range of dermatologic findings associated with intrauterine HSV is extremely broad, and the various morphologies present at birth likely reflect different stages of the ongoing evolution of an HSV infection that began in utero. Clinicians should have a low threshold for HSV testing in premature neonates born with atypical cutaneous lesions, since early detection and treatment of HSV may reduce morbidity and mortality from systemic complications.
What fuels passion? An integrative review of competing theories of romantic passion
Authors: Carswell Kathleen L. , Impett Emily A.
Published: July 2021

In an integrative review, we examine four theories and models of romantic passion to determine what causes feelings of romantic passion. Although a growing consensus has emerged for the definition of romantic passion, we suggest that this is largely not the case for the source of romantic passion. We outline how four different perspectives—Limerence Theory, the Rate of Change in Intimacy Model, the Self‐Expansion Model, and the Triangular Theory of Love—propose four different potential sources of romantic passion and review empirical support in favor and against each. For each of these perspectives, we additionally outline the predicted trajectory of passion that follows from each theorized source of passion, as well as each perspective's view on the ability for passion to be controlled and up‐regulated. In identifying ways in which these theories and models offer conflicting predictions about the source of romantic passion, this review points to ways in which a more comprehensive model may be developed that integrates across these four perspectives.
Recognition of crevasses with high‐resolution digital elevation models: Application of geomorphometric modeling and texture analysis
Authors: Ishalina Olga T. , Bliakharskii Dmitrii P. , Florinsky Igor V.
Published: July 2021

Crevasses—cracks in glaciers and ice sheets—pose a danger to polar researchers and glaciologists. We compare the capabilities of two techniques—geomorphometric modeling and texture analysis—to recognize open and hidden crevasses using high‐resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) generated from images collected by an unmanned aerial system (UAS). The first technique includes derivation of local morphometric variables; the second includes calculation of the Haralick texture features. The study area is represented by the first 30 km of a sledge route between the Progress and Vostok polar stations, East Antarctica. The UAS survey was performed by a Geoscan 201 Geodesy UAS. For the sledge route area, DEMs with resolutions of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 m were generated. Models of 12 morphometric variables and 11 texture features were derived from the DEMs. In terms of crevasse recognition, the most informative morphometric variable and texture feature was horizontal curvature and inverse difference moment, respectively. In most cases, derivation and mapping of these variables allow one to recognize crevasses wider than 3 m; narrower crevasses can be recognized for lengths from 500 m. For crevasse recognition, the geomorphometric modeling and the Haralick texture analysis can complement each other.
Lung transplant recipient attitudes and beliefs on accepting an organ that is positive for hepatitis C virus
Authors: Humar Sapna S. , Pinzon Natalia , Cypel Marcelo , Abbey Susan
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Little is known about patient perceptions regarding HCV+ organ use in non‐HCV‐infected recipients. This study examined factors influencing the decision to accept HCV+ organs and the resulting impacts.

Methods

Adult lung transplant (LT) patients or candidates who had consented to receive an HCV+ organ completed a survey including multiple choice, a five‐point Likert scale, and free‐text answers. A total of 67 LT recipients or candidates who had consented to receive HCV+ organs were enrolled, of which 21/67 (31%) received HCV+ lungs, 39 (58%) HCV− lungs, and seven (10%) were still waiting.

Results

Pre‐transplant, 50/67 (75%) patients felt it was either “completely safe” or “very safe” to accept an HCV+ organ. Although 22/67 (33%) said they never or rarely took risks, they still made the decision to accept an HCV+ organ. Common reported reasons were desperation, perception of having “no choice,” and increasing symptom severity. In the subset of patients that were transplanted with an HCV+ organ (n = 21), only 12.5% reported second thoughts about accepting. Post‐transplant, the majority (87.5%) never felt any anxiety about HCV and most (83%) reported no impact from HCV. Perception of treatment tolerability and ease was highly favorable.

Conclusion

Use of HCV+ organs demonstrated minimal detrimental perceived impacts on lung transplant patients. Patients generally found the experience to be very positive.
Biology, distribution and control of the invasive speciesUlex europaeus(Gorse): A global synthesis of current and future management challenges and research gaps
Authors: Roberts Jason , Florentine Singarayer
Published: July 2021

Ulex europaeus(Gorse) is one of the most invasive shrubs in the world, being now found in more than 50 countries where it economically and environmentally degrades the land. This highly versatile shrub can live more than 30 years and produce over 18,000 fertile seeds annually that can remain viable for over 30 years.Ulex europaeusspread is facilitated by its ability to germinate in a wide range of conditions, quick growth and maturing rate and several seed dispersal mechanisms. Despite extensive research and attempts at managingU. europaeus, current rates of control are not adequate to limit the species’ competitiveness and impact on the environment. This has resulted in the species altering soil and landscape dynamics in areas of major invasion, inhibiting the growth of agricultural and native species, creating shelter for pest species and reducing the richness of competing species at a site, all of which contribute to the economic and environmental degradation of the land. This review highlights that herbicide application is the most successful technique used to controlU. europaeus, although it has shown varying success across different climatic regions. In this regard, future research should investigate the possibility of integrating a range of techniques (competition, fire management, grazing, manual removal and mycoherbicides) to increase control success and reduce any potential risk of herbicide resistance. Further research is also required on the maintenance of longer‐term viable populations of biological control agents to limit the success of this invasive species. Bridging the identified research gaps will help to facilitate the improved long‐term management ofU. europaeusand help land managers confidently to maintain sustainable land systems.
Time-Accurate Evaluation of Film Cooling Jet Characteristics for Plenum and Crossflow Coolant Supplies
Authors: Sperling Spencer J. , Mathison Randal M.
Published: July 2021

Gas turbine film cooling creates complicated and highly unsteady flow structures. This study seeks to examine the unsteady characteristics created by different cooling hole inlet geometries using a fast-response pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) technique able to capture time-accurate measurements at 2000 frames per second, resolving frequencies up to 1000 Hz. Time-accurate and time-averaged measurements are used to evaluate the performance of a plenum-style inlet and a crossflow-style inlet in varying turbulence environments over a flat plate. The results of this study are intended to begin the process of breaking down widely accepted time-averaged film effectiveness trends into the cumulative effects of freestream turbulence and momentum flux ratio, with emphasis on the cooling jet motions they cause. Jet behaviors observed in this study include a sweeping oscillation, unsteady attachment and separation from the plate, and time-accurate and time-averaged flow bias. Cooling hole inlet geometry and momentum flux ratio affect the core of the jet, and freestream turbulence affects the periphery of the jet. Crossflow-fed cooling holes show bias to the upstream side of the cooling hole with respect to the internal crossflow direction. Plenum-fed cooling holes outperform crossflow-fed cooling holes, and the difference grows with increasing momentum flux ratio. The frequency of both plenum- and crossflow-fed cooling jet motions is influenced by the freestream turbulent velocity fluctuations. The resulting mode shapes show dominant side-to-side sweeping for higher turbulence environments and a separation and reattachment motion for lower turbulence environments. At higher momentum flux ratio, the jets were seen to increasingly favor separation and reattachment motions. The results of this study are intended to better inform existing predictive tools. With a better understanding of the time-accurate behaviors responsible for creating the commonly accepted time-averaged coolant distributions, simple predictive tools may be better equipped to accurately model film cooling flows.
Effect of the addition of cellulose filaments on the relaxation behavior of thermoplastics
Authors: Genoyer Julie , Lentzakis Helen , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: July 2021

In this work, the effect of cellulose filaments (CFs) dispersion on the relaxation behavior of thermoplastics matrices was studied. The dispersion state of polystyrene/CF composites produced by two different processing methods, leading to two different dispersion qualities, was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, and small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS). Instead of the generally used plateau value of G′, the melt yield stress of the modified Carreau–Yasuda model was used to find an accurate value of the percolation threshold concentration. It was concluded that in this case, the process involving a solution mixing step led to a better dispersion than the process involving only melt mixing. Then, using the weighted relaxation spectra calculated using the Honerkamp and Weese method on SAOS results, it was shown that the better the dispersion, the more delayed the relaxation process of the polymer matrix. Finally, by studying the relaxation spectra as well as the melt yield stress of polypropylene/CF composites, it was possible to understand the evolution of their morphology upon CF concentration. It was shown that below 5 wt. %, a well dispersed network of CF was obtained, whereas from 5 to 15 wt. % CFs were agglomerating, then leading to a network of agglomerated fibers for concentrations above 15 wt. %. Those assessments done using SAOS results were confirmed by SEM.
Polymyxin-Induced Metabolic Perturbations in Human Lung Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ahmed Maizbha U. , Azad Mohammad A. K. , Li Mengyao , Creek Darren J. , Han Meiling , Zhou Fanfan , Chan Kim , Zhou Qi Tony , Velkov Tony , Li Jian
Published: July 2021

Inhaled polymyxins are associated with toxicity in human lung epithelial cells that involves multiple apoptotic pathways. However, the mechanism of polymyxin-induced pulmonary toxicity remains unclear. This study aims to investigate polymyxin-induced metabolomic perturbations in human lung epithelial A549 cells.
Changing Pattern of Plasmodium falciparum
pfmdr1
Gene Polymorphisms in Southern Rwanda
Authors: van Loon Welmoed , Bergmann Clara , Habarugira Felix , Tacoli Costanza , Savelsberg Darius , Oliveira Rafael , Mbarushimana Djibril , Ndoli Jules , Sendegeya Augustin , Bayingana Claude , Mockenhaupt Frank P.
Published: July 2021

Plasmodium falciparum
multidrug resistance-1
gene (
pfmdr1
) polymorphisms associate with altered antimalarial susceptibility. Between 2010 and 2018/2019, we observed that the prevalence of the wild-type allele N86 and the wild-type combination NYD increased 10-fold (4% versus 40%) and more than 2-fold (18% versus 44%), respectively.
Exebacase Is Active
In Vitro
in Pulmonary Surfactant and Is Efficacious Alone and Synergistic with Daptomycin in a Mouse Model of Lethal Staphylococcus aureus Lung Infection
Authors: Swift Steven M. , Sauve Karen , Cassino Cara , Schuch Raymond
Published: July 2021

Exebacase (CF-301) is a novel antistaphylococcal lysin (cell wall hydrolase) in phase 3 of clinical development for the treatment of
Staphylococcus aureus
bacteremia, including right-sided endocarditis, used in addition to standard-of-care antibiotics. In the current study, the potential for exebacase to treat
S. aureus
pneumonia was explored
in vitro
using bovine pulmonary surfactant (Survanta) and
in vivo
using a lethal murine pneumonia model.
Role of the Staphylococcus aureus Extracellular Loop of GraS in Resistance to Distinct Human Defense Peptides in PMN and Invasive Cardiovascular infections
Authors: Cheung Ambrose L. , Cho Junho , Bayer Arnold S. , Yeaman Michael R. , Xiong Yan Q. , Donegan Niles P. , Mikheyeva Irina V. , Lee Gi Yong , Yang Soo-Jin
Published: July 2021

GraS is a membrane sensor in
Staphylococcus aureus
that induces
mprF
and
dltABCD
expression to alter the surface positive charge upon exposure to cationic human defense peptides (HDPs). The sensing domain of GraS likely resides in the 9-residue extracellular loop (EL).