bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymorphisms in the promotor region of the CRBN gene as a predictive factor for peripheral neuropathy in the course of thalidomide‐based chemotherapy in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Mlak Radosław , Szudy‐Szczyrek Aneta , Mazurek Marcin , Szczyrek Michał , Homa‐Mlak Iwona , Mielnik Michał , Chocholska Sylwia , Jankowska‐Łęcka Olga , Małecka‐Massalska Teresa , Hus Marek
Published: May 2019

Thalidomide is commonly used in treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). This study aimed to analyse the influence of clinical and molecular factors ‐ single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CRBN gene: rs6768972 and rs1672753, on the risk of adverse effects (AEs) of thalidomide‐based chemotherapy in patients with MM. The study group included 82 patients receiving CTD (thalidomide, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone) as first line treatment. The intensity of haematological and non‐haematological AEs was assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.03. Multivariate analysis showed that patients with the CRBN CC genotype (rs1672753) had more than a 14‐fold higher risk of peripheral polyneuropathy compared to patients with other variants of the investigated SNP [odds ratio (OR) = 14·29]. Carriers of this genotype were burdened with significantly (about 17‐fold) higher risk of diarrhoea during treatment (OR = 16·67). The presence of CRBN AA (rs6768972) or TT (rs1672753) genotypes was associated with about 333‐fold and 250‐fold lower risk of constipation in the course of therapy (OR = 0·003; OR = 0·004, respectively). Selected CRBN SNPs may be useful in assessing the probability of AEs in the form of peripheral polyneuropathy and gastrointestinal motility disorders associated with the use of thalidomide in patients with MM.
Acute activation of endothelial AMPK surprisingly inhibits endothelium‐dependent hyperpolarization‐like relaxations in rat mesenteric arteries
Authors: Chen Hui , Vanhoutte Paul M. , Leung Susan W.S.
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose

Endothelium‐dependent hyperpolarizations (EDHs) contribute to the regulation of peripheral resistance. They are initiated through opening of endothelial calcium‐activated potassium channels (KCa); the potassium ions released then diffuse to the underlying smooth muscle cells, causing hyperpolarization and thus relaxation. The present study aimed to examine whether or not AMPK modulates EDH‐like relaxations in rat mesenteric arteries.

Experimental Approach

Arterial rings were isolated for isometric tension recording. AMPK activity and protein level were measured by ELISA and western blotting respectively.

Key Results

The AMPK activator, AICAR, reduced ACh‐induced EDH‐like relaxations and increased AMPK activity in preparations with endothelium; these responses were prevented by compound C, an AMPK inhibitor. AICAR inhibited relaxations induced by SKA‐31 (opener of endothelial KCa) but did not affect potassium‐induced, hyperpolarization‐attributable relaxations or increase AMPK activity in preparations without endothelium. A769662, another AMPK activator, not only caused a similar inhibition of relaxations to ACh and SKA‐31 in preparations with endothelium but also inhibited hyperpolarization‐attributable relaxations and augmented AMPK activity in rings without endothelium. Protein levels of total AMPKα, AMPKα1, or AMPKβ1/2 were comparable between preparations with and without endothelium.

Conclusions and Implications

Activation of endothelial AMPK, by either AICAR or A769662, acutely inhibits EDH‐like relaxations of rat mesenteric arteries. Furthermore, A769662 inhibits signalling downstream of smooth muscle hyperpolarization. In view of the major blunting effect of AMPK activation on EDH‐like relaxations, caution should be applied when administering therapeutic agents that activate AMPK in patients with endothelial dysfunction characterized by reduced production and/or bioavailability of NO.
A life course approach to total tooth loss: Testing the sensitive period, accumulation, and social mobility models in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Lee Haena
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Childhood socio‐economic status (SES) has long been associated with later‐life oral health, suggesting that childhood is a sensitive period for oral health. Far less attention has been given to the long‐term impact of childhood trauma, abuse, and smoking on later‐life oral health. This study fills the gap in the literature by examining how adverse childhood experiences—social, psychological, and behavioral—shape total tooth loss over the life course, with an assessment of the sensitive period, accumulation, and social mobility models from life course research.

Methods

Data are drawn from the 2012 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) merged with multiple HRS data sources to obtain childhood information (N = 6,427; age > 50). Adverse childhood experiences include childhood financial hardship, trauma, abuse, and smoking. Total tooth loss is measured to assess poor oral health in later life. Educational attainment and poverty status (since age 51) are measured as adult adversity. Current health conditions and health behaviors are assessed to reflect the correlates of oral health in later life.

Results

The sensitive period model indicates that childhood trauma such as parental death or divorce (odds ratio [OR] = 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04, 1.80), physical abuse (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.34), and low educational attainment (≤ high school; OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.04, 2.22) are associated with higher odds of total tooth loss in later life. Poverty status was not associated with the outcome. There was a clear graded relationship between accumulation of adverse experiences and oral health, which supports the accumulation model. In the social mobility model, older adults who occupied a stable disadvantageous position were more likely to be toothless (OR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.08, 2.90) compared to those who did not face adversity in any case. Neither upward nor downward mobility mattered.

Conclusions

Failing oral health in older adults, especially total tooth loss, may have its roots in adverse experiences such as childhood trauma, abuse, and low educational attainment. Findings also suggest that oral health in later life may be more influenced by accumulation of adversity rather than changes in social and economic position over the life course.
Allocation of invasive plant management expenditures for conservation: Lessons from Florida, USA
Authors: Hiatt Drew , Serbesoff‐King Kristina , Lieurance Deah , Gordon Doria R. , Flory S. Luke
Published: May 2019

Although the ecological impacts of biological invasions are well studied, comprehensive analyses of spending on invasive species management are lacking. Such analyses could inform both effective resource allocation and management planning. We evaluated long‐term invasive plant management expenditures and their potential geographic, economic, and ecological drivers for freshwater and terrestrial conservation areas in Florida, USA. Average expenditures for managing invaders were approximately US$45M annually, with over 90% of funding provided by the state. Our model showed that expenditures were best predicted by the prevalence of waterways and abundance of invaders, indicating that funding was allocated towards asset protection in highly invaded aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Higher spending was directly correlated with reduced area invaded for the costliest invader (Hydrilla verticillata, ~$10M/year), demonstrating management efficacy and constructive use of resources. Our study highlights that significant funding is required to manage plant invaders in Florida and that greater funding would likely limit the extent of invasions. Additional analyses of management cost‐effectiveness for Florida and other regions would benefit from consistent collection and reporting of high‐resolution management data. Given the exponential rate of spread of many invaders, additional and sustained management funding is needed for early detection and rapid, effective control of invasive species.
S1 guidelines for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) – update 2018
Authors: Ugurel Selma , Kortmann Rolf‐Dieter , Mohr Peter , Mentzel Thomas , Garbe Claus , Breuninger Helmut , Bauer Sebastian , Grabbe Stephan
Published: May 2019

While dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare cancer entity overall, it is nevertheless the most common type of cutaneous sarcoma. The tumor is of fibroblastic origin and characterized by slow, undermining and locally destructive growth. Metastatic spread is very rare. Given its nonspecific clinical appearance, diagnosis is frequently delayed. Biopsy and subsequent histopathology are key diagnostic tools. Standard treatment for primary tumors consists of complete excision with surgical margins of 1 to 2 cm. Smaller margins are associated with high local recurrence rates. Inoperable and metastatic DFSP may be treated with radiation therapy. Approximately 80–90 % of DFSP lesions harbor a fusion gene that results in continuous activation of the PDGF‐β signaling pathway. Consequently, molecular targeted therapy inhibiting PDGF‐β is an effective option for advanced (inoperable) and metastatic DFSP. The first agent to be approved for systemic treatment of DFSP is the multikinase inhibitor imatinib, showing objective response rates of about 50 % in clinical trials.
Predictive model of proficiency in powered mobility of children and young adults with motor impairments
Authors: Gefen Naomi , Rigbi Amihai , Weiss Patrice L
Published: May 2019

Aim

To identify variables that can predict proficiency in powered mobility use for children in young adults.

Method

Participants included 80 children and young adults (42 males, 38 females; mean age 10y 2mo, [SD 5y 1mo]; range: 2–22y) with cerebral palsy, neuromuscular disease, and spinal cord injury who participated in the ALYN Hospital Powered Mobility Lending Program from 2009 to 2016. Data were collected and compared before and after participation in the program and powered mobility levels were determined by the Israeli Ministry of Health (MOH) Powered Mobility Proficiency Test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis followed by a bootstrapping procedure that was based on 1000 samples were used to determine if the variables were predictive of success on the Israeli MOH Powered Mobility Proficiency Test.

Results

Significant variables for predicting success were identified: manual wheelchair propulsion, go‐stop voluntarily upon request, and using a joystick. The model was able to correctly identify 80% of the children.

Interpretation

Children and young adults with the ability to go‐stop upon request, propel a manual wheelchair short distances, and use a joystick to activate the powered wheelchair had a higher chance of becoming proficient. In countries where wheelchair proficiency is a requirement for powered wheelchair procurement, these findings may support policy changes, as they did in Israel.

What this paper adds

Using powered wheelchairs offers children earlier and more natural practice to determine driving proficiency.

Manual wheelchair propulsion, go‐stop voluntarily upon request, and using a joystick were predictors of powered mobility proficiency.

More than 80% of children use a joystick with their hand to activate a powered wheelchair.
Role of left ventricle deformation analysis in stress echocardiography for significant coronary artery disease detection: A diagnostic study meta‐analysis
Authors: Gupta Kartik , Kakar Tanya S. , Gupta Ankur , Singh Amitoj , Gharpure Nitin , Aryal Sudeep , Hawi Riem , Lloyd Steven G. , Booker Julian , Hage Fadi G. , Prabhu Sumanth D. , Nanda Navin C. , Bajaj Navkaranbir S.
Published: May 2019

Background

We compared the diagnostic accuracy of longitudinal strain (LS) imaging during stress echocardiography with visual assessment of wall motion (WM) for detecting significant coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Our systematic search included studies reporting diagnostic measures for LS imaging and visual assessment of WM for detecting significant CAD during stress echocardiography. Summary diagnostic accuracy measures including area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and likelihood ratios (LRs) were estimated.

Results

In thirteen studies with 978 patients, ten studies used invasive coronary angiography as the reference standard. Pooled AUC for diagnosing significant CAD was 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89–0.94) for LS imaging as compared to 0.83 (95% CI 0.80–0.86), P < 0.001 for visual assessment of WM. LS imaging had higher sensitivity (88% [95% CI 84–92] vs 74% [95% CI 68–80], P < 0.001) and comparable specificity to visual assessment of WM (80% [95% CI 72–87] vs 83% [95% CI 74–90], P = 0.592). The DOR for LS imaging and visual assessment of WM was 31 and 15, P = 0.254, respectively. The positive LR was 4.5 for both; negative LR was 0.14 and 0.31, P = 0.002 for LS imaging and visual assessment of WM, respectively.

Conclusions

Longitudinal strain imaging during stress echocardiography has better diagnostic accuracy for detecting significant CAD as compared to visual assessment of WM. Studies using larger sample size and standardized techniques of strain measurement are required to further ascertain the added advantage of strain measurement over visual assessment alone.
A giant left atrial mass—Clinical treatment dilemma
Authors: Hsi David H. , Ebright Michael I. , Del Prete Salvatore A. , Pearson Gregory , Bernstein Michael A.
Published: May 2019

A 74‐year‐old female current 75 pack‐year smoker presented with shortness of breath and mild hemoptysis. Chest computed tomography showed a large right upper lobe mass compressing the superior vena cava, invading the right pulmonary veins, and occupying the majority of the left atrium. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 13 mm right parietal lesion with surrounding edema consistent with metastasis. A 3D TEE showed a large mobile mass in the left atrium. Bronchoscopy confirmed that the tumor mass was consistent with a moderately to poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. She underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and immune therapy. She was also started on warfarin for anticoagulation after the initial chemotherapy with resolution of the left atrial mass. We feel that the patient most likely had carcinogenic thrombus in the pulmonary veins and left atrium.
Impact of fire and the recovery of molluscs in south‐east Australian salt marsh
Authors: Ross Pauline M. , Harvey Kerinne , Vecchio Egidio M. , Beckers Doug
Published: May 2019

Fire has long been recognised as a natural force in structuring Northern Hemisphere salt marshes, yet little is known about the impact of fire on molluscs and native vegetation dynamics of Southern Hemisphere coastal salt marshes. Following a fire at Ash Island, Hunter River New South Wales, Australia in the summer 2012, we assessed patterns of recovery through time of gastropod populations and resident salt marsh vegetation including biomass for three keystone native plant species, Native Rush (Juncus kraussii Hochst.), a chenopod (Sarcocornia quinqueflora Bunge ex Ungen‐Sternberg A.J. Scott), Salt Couch (Sporobolus virginicus, L. Kunth) and the invasive Spiny Rush (Juncus acutus). In temperate east‐coast Australian salt marshes, Spiny Rush is displacing native salt marsh vegetation. After twelve months, the biomass of Native Rush recovered to similar pre‐burn levels. While fire affected the abundance, richness and composition of the gastropod assemblage differences were also largely driven by spatial variability. Gastropod assemblages associated with two of the higher elevation native species (Native Rush and Salt Couch) were impacted the most by fire. Greater abundance (between 1 and 5 orders of magnitude difference in abundance) and richness of gastropods were found in unburnt compared with burnt Native Rush and Salt Couch vegetation, while more gastropods were found in Spiny Rush in one site. Species prevalent in burnt vegetation included larger species of gastropods Ophicardelus ornatus (Ferussac, 1821) and Phallomedusa solida (Martens, 1878) with an unexpected spike in number of the smaller gastropod Tatea huonensis (Tenison‐Woods, 1876) in the spiny rush at one site only. In salt marsh habitats, many gastropods have planktonic larval dispersal stages which are dependent on the tidal height for transport and the structural complexity provided by vegetation at settlement. Since fire appears to negatively affect salt marsh gastropod populations within structurally complex Native Rush and Salt Couch, due consideration of the importance of these refuges for gastropods is recommended when fire or other disturbances occur in ecologically endangered salt marsh in the Southern Hemisphere. Managers need to consider spatial heterogeneity of molluscs and their recovery in the event of fire in Southern Hemisphere salt marshes.
Development and testing of a Bayesian population model for the bigeye thresher shark, Alopias superciliosus, in an area subset of the western North Pacific
Authors: Tsai Wen‐Pei , Chang Yi‐Jay , Liu Kwang‐Ming
Published: May 2019

A Bayesian population modelling tool integrating separable virtual population analysis, per‐recruit models and age‐structured demographic analysis was developed for the bigeye thresher Alopias superciliosus (Lowe) population in an area subset of the western North Pacific. The mortality rates for years 1989–2016 were estimated, various biological reference points and associated risks of decline were also estimated, and alternative harvest strategies for the stock were evaluated. Estimates of the posterior mean of fishing mortality for bigeye thresher shark suggest fishing pressure has been high in recent years (2011–2016). The estimated population growth rate (λ) (without fishing) obtained from age‐structured demographic model was relatively low (λ = 1.01 per year; 95% confidence intervals of 1.00 and 1.03 per year). Risk analyses revealed that only low levels of fishing pressure (10% of the current fishing pressure) over a wide range of ages could maintain a relatively low risk of population decline for bigeye threshers. Sensitivity testing indicated that the model is robust to prior specification. The developed framework could be used as an assessment tool to evaluate the risk of decline for other widely distributed pelagic shark species where insufficient catch and effort data are available.
Evolutionary histories impart structure into marine fish heterospecific co‐occurrence networks
Authors: Ford Benjamin M. , Roberts J. Dale
Published: May 2019

Aim

Understanding the role of interspecific interactions in maintaining diversity, ecosystem function and evolutionary processes is a major challenge in ecology. Historically, antagonistic heterospecific interactions were the focus of many studies, but the importance of facilitative interactions has become increasingly apparent over recent decades. Ecological networks can provide insights into potential interactions among co‐occurring heterospecifics. We compared the structures of temperate and tropical marine fish co‐occurrence networks to estimate their resilience and/or robustness to perturbations.

Location

Western Australia.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Marine fishes.

Methods

We compared the structure of temperate and tropical marine fish communities through interspecific co‐occurrences using joint species distribution modelling. Network analyses identified modules of co‐occurring species and those which play a strong role in the organization of communities.

Results

In all study locations, most interspecific co‐occurrences did not differ significantly from random, with positive co‐occurrences being more prevalent than negative non‐random co‐occurrences. The modularity of networks created from interspecific co‐occurrences tended to decrease poleward, with the opposite for species centrality. An increase in functional diversity among co‐occurring species with latitude was detected. Species centrality was greatest among the temperate endemic species, with a positive association between species centrality and intrinsic vulnerability scores.

Main conclusions

The differences in community structure between tropical and temperate Western Australian marine fish communities might be attributable, in part, to differing evolutionary histories. The temperate endemic species have co‐evolved in a relatively homogeneous abiotic and biotic environment, whereas the Indo‐Pacific ichthyofauna have evolved in a diverse range of environments. The temperate communities are characterized by: (a) low functional redundancy among co‐occurring species, with endemic species playing keystone roles in community structure; (b) attributes associated with increased vulnerability to perturbations; with (c) many of the species identified as potential keystone species having high intrinsic vulnerability scores and being targeted by fishers.
Unraveling the Hydrological Behavior of a Coastal Pond in Doñana National Park (Southwest Spain)
Authors: Fernández‐Ayuso Ana , Aguilera Héctor , Guardiola‐Albert Carolina , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez Miguel , Heredia Javier , Naranjo‐Fernández Nuria
Published: May 2019

Time series analysis methods have been used to detect behavioral patterns in a set of nine time series. These series contained information in a 3‐h time step about meteorological, hydrological and tidal data of a sand dune pond area located in Doñana National Park in the southwest of Spain. The methods used, such as wavelet analysis and additive seasonal decomposition, had never been applied before in the types of ecosystems studied. These approaches have improved the current knowledge of the conceptual model of the Santa Olalla pond system, the only system with a permanent hydroperiod located in this protected area. In addition, complex surface water‐groundwater interactions, not visible through descriptive methods, have been distinguished to have a strong seasonal component. Finally, we evaluated the effect of pumping activity in a nearby coastal resort on the water supply of the Santa Olalla pond system. Although direct damage to this sand dune pond has not yet been identified, special attention must be paid in order to maintain groundwater inputs that are integral to maintaining its current status.
Biomechanical performance of an immature maxillary central incisor after revitalization: a finite element analysis
Authors: Bucchi C. , Marcé‐Nogué J. , Galler K. M. , Widbiller M.
Published: May 2019

Aim

To investigate the stress distribution in an immature maxillary incisor and the same tooth after simulated revitalization with deposition of tubular dentine or cementum by finite element analysis (FEA).

Methodology

A finite element model of a maxillary central incisor was developed on the basis of a µCT scan. The tooth was segmented in two parts: a part that represented a tooth in an immature state and an apical part that represented the tissue formed after revitalization. The apical part was given the mechanical properties of dentine or cementum. The immature tooth and the same tooth reinforced by either dentine or cementum underwent simulation of biting, trauma and orthodontic movement. Von Mises stress values were compared between the scenarios and tooth segments.

Results

Maximum stress in the immature incisor developed apically; however, dentine‐ and cementum‐reinforced teeth revealed the greatest stress in the external portion of the root decreasing towards the apex. Greatest mechanical stress was caused by dental trauma perpendicular to the long axis of the root followed by biting and orthodontic movement. Stress peaks were lower in the dentine‐reinforced tooth compared with the cementum‐reinforced tooth in all scenarios; however, median stress in the immature part was reduced irrespective of dentine or cementum deposition. Dentine reinforcement caused greater stress values in the apical segment due to absorbance of the applied force, whereas stress was not transferred towards deposited cementum.

Conclusions

Apposition of simulated hard tissue in a maxillary central incisor after revitalization reduced mechanical stress in the immature tooth. Formation of dentine was advantageous because, unlike cementum, it facilitated an even stress distribution throughout the root resulting in lower stress values.
Thermal stability of lithium metasilicate produced under high pressure from lithium disilicate glass
Authors: Buchner Silvio , Kulbieda Felipe R. , Fokin Vladimir M. , Soares Paulo , Machado Álvaro D’. , Schmelzer Jürn W. P. , Balzaretti Naira M.
Published: May 2019

Crystalline lithium disilicate, Li2Si2O5(LS2c) is usually produced at atmospheric pressure by suitable heat treatment of the glass with the same stoichiometric composition (LS2g). At this pressure, the orthorhombic phase of lithium disilicate is thermodynamically stable. The heat treatment of LS2gunder high pressure (7.7 GPa) induces the crystallization of lithium metasilicate Li2SiO3(LSm) phase, which remains metastable after pressure release. In this work, distinct heat treatments under high pressure were chosen to produce lithium metasilicate crystals with different grain sizes embedded in the glass matrix: smaller than 10 µm, about 100 µm and larger than 100 µm. Thermal stability of this set of samples was investigated during subsequent heat treatments at atmospheric pressure. All samples were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and optical microscopy. Small LSmcrystals produced under high pressure remained detectable only up to 1 hour of heat treatment at 610°C at atmospheric pressure while for longer heating times, the formation of quartz and crystalline LS2cwas observed. On the other hand, for the samples containing larger LSmcrystals produced under high pressure, the metasilicate phase remained detectable up to 9.5 hours of subsequent heat treatment, forming spherulitic configurations.
Domestic spaces and beyond: Consumer food waste in the context of shopping and storing routines
Authors: Dobernig Karin , Schanes Karin
Published: May 2019

To significantly reduce the volumes of food currently wasted in industrialized countries, tackling food waste on the household level is paramount. While awareness campaigns and economic incentives are important measures, it is crucial to look beyond individual decision making and scrutinize how contextual factors frame consumer lifestyles in ways that intensify the issue of food going to waste. This paper addresses the role of material contexts—in particular, infrastructures and technologies—in the shaping of food shopping and storing practices and thus consumer food waste. It presents an in‐depth, qualitative study with 24 Austrian households, conducted from November 2016 to February 2017. Data were collected through food waste diaries, semi‐structured interviews and a total of 16 focus group discussions. In line with other studies, we find that food waste is a largely unintended outcome of entangled daily routines revolving around food, such as meal planning, grocery shopping and food storing. The characteristics of food retail infrastructures—in terms of accessibility, density and type—shape these routines and thus potentially influence excess food purchases. Food storing practices as well depend on the characteristics of domestic infrastructures and co‐evolve with technologies used for storing food. Unraveling the interconnectivity between material contexts and household food practices can inform policy, product design and food retail development and thus has implications for reducing consumer food waste.
How does the harvest index affect water‐use efficiency and nutrient‐utilization efficiency of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.)?
Authors: Keipp Katrin , Hütsch Birgit W. , Schubert Sven
Published: May 2019

Besides oilseed rape and soybean, sunflower is one of the most important annual oilcrops. Apart from seed yield, which is the most important trait in many crops, oil yield is of utmost interest for sunflower breeders and farmers. Compared to the seed yield of sunflowers, their total biomass is often very high, and it is of great agronomic interest to increase the ratio of both parameters, which is defined as harvest index. With an increase in harvest index, improvements of resource‐use efficiencies can be expected. To generate an adequate seed yield, water and nutrients are key factors and their efficient use becomes increasingly important under conditions of aridity and higher production goals. A pot experiment was conducted in summer 2017 to determine differences in harvest index of various sunflower genotypes which could have an influence on the use efficiencies of water and nutrients (N, P, K). In total, 25 genotypes of different origin and with various morphological traits were investigated under optimal growth conditions. The harvest index varied from 29% to 47% and showed significant differences among some genotypes. The harvest index was less affected by the total biomass of the plants but more by the seed yield. The seed yield itself was mainly determined by the single seed weight rather than by the number of seeds. The experiment also confirmed significant positive correlations between harvest indices and all use efficiencies. Genotypes with high harvest indices were characterized by high oil concentrations in the seeds and particularly by high oil yields. In conclusion, cultivation of sunflower genotypes with high harvest indices most likely results in high water‐use efficiency and high nutrient‐utilization efficiencies as well as in high oil yields.
Enhanced thermal quenching characteristic via carbon doping in red‐emitting CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ phosphors
Authors: Tian Junhang , Zhuang Weidong , Liu Ronghui , Wang Ligen , Liu Yuanhong , Yan Chunpei , Chen Guantong , Xu Huibing , Chen Mingyue , Jiang Ze , Zhang Xia
Published: May 2019

Enhancing thermal quenching characteristic of phosphor for use in high power white‐light‐emitting diodes (wLEDs) is a significant materials challenge. To achieve this goal, a series of red‐emitting carbidonitride phosphors Ca0.992AlSiN3 − 4/3xCx:0.008Eu2+ have been synthesized by high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method. Crystal structure, luminescence properties, and thermal quenching process are investigated. The location of carbon in the lattice is proved by the Raman spectra. The preferential crystallographic site of carbon is validated by the first‐principles density functional theory calculations combining the Rietveld refinement. With carbon doping from x = 0 to x = 0.24, the emission spectra are blue‐shifted from 656.8 to 650.2 nm, and the fitted lifetime of Eu2+ decreases from 775.3 to 721.7 ns. Replacing nitrogen by carbon enhances thermal quenching characteristic by 8.9% at 300°C. Carbon doping enlarges the thermal ionization energy barriers (EdC) which is calculated at great length, and suppresses thermal ionization process. A wLED fabricated by the combination of a blue chip with the as‐synthesized red phosphor and LuAG: Ce3+ green phosphor shows a high color rendering indexes (Ra = 95.9 and R9 = 92). The promising application of Ca0.992AlSiN3 − 4/3xCx:0.008Eu2+ phosphor for wLEDs is proved by all results above.
Enhanced insulating and piezoelectric properties of BiFeO3‐BaTiO3‐Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 ceramics with high Curie temperature
Authors: Cheng Shuai , Zhang Bo‐Ping , Zhao Lei , Wang Kai‐Kun
Published: May 2019

BiFeO3‐BaTiO3 ceramics are promising lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics due to their high piezoelectric properties and high Curie temperature, but their high leakage current density makes the poling difficult. In this study, a decreased leakage current density by three orders of magnitude was obtained in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT) added 0.67BiFeO3‐0.33BaTiO3 (BF‐BT) ceramics. It was found that the largely improved insulating properties benefit from the reduced oxygen vacancies and weak reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ as confirmed by photoluminescence and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements, thereby contributing to high‐temperature and high‐field poling. In addition, the introduction of BNT leaded to increased grain size. Due to the grown grains as well as reduced oxygen vacancies and Fe2+, enhanced insulating and optimal piezoelectric properties with Pr = 24.2 µC/cm2, d33 = 183 pC/N, kp = 0.28, and TC = 467°C were achieved in BF‐BT‐0.05BNT ceramics.
Apprehending the Creative Process through Drawing in the Foundation Design Studio
Authors: Akoury Chahid
Published: May 2019

One of the main goals of design education is to enhance and enable creative thinking. Therefore, effectively teaching visual representational and interpretational skills is vital for the communication and articulation of such ideations. This article will explore examples from two specific introductory design studios where my personal pedagogical approach emphasises drawing as a creative language of reflection and critical conceptualisation. The aim of my approach accentuates the exploration any idea through drawing and thus allowing this graphic language to aid in the generation of creative thinking. Drawing, then, assumes the role of a research process concerned not only with the projection of thoughts, but with the study of correlations, and the consequent incorporation of perceptive and conceptual articulations.
To initiate the conversation – Public health nurses’ experiences of working with obesity in persons with mobility disability
Authors: Holmgren Marianne , Sandberg Magnus , Ahlström Gerd
Published: May 2019

Aim

Developing a theory explaining how public health nurses accomplish and adapt counselling in lifestyle habits to decrease obesity in people with mobility disability.

Design

Empirical research ‐ qualitative.

Method

Classic grounded theory with face‐to‐face interviews, 2017–2018, using inductive approach to understand public health nurses' intervening experiences with obesity patients.

Results

To initiate the conversation emerged as the main concern meaning having difficulties initiating conversations about obesity with patients. Public health nurses’ facilitators to communicate lifestyle changes emerged as the pattern generating the theory, which consists of the categories; person‐centeredness in the situation, experience and knowledge, strengthening conditions, access to other professionals and prioritization in everyday work.

Conclusions

Public health nurses hesitate to raise topics of obesity in patients with mobility disability. They advocate increased integration with lifestyle changes in everyday work including multi‐professional cooperation. The implication is testing the emerged theory at primary health care centres.

Impact

Obesity is more common in people with mobility disability than in those without. There is a need to understand how public health nurses adapt counselling in lifestyle habits. Public health nurses hesitate to talk about obesity with patients in fear of offending anyone. Public health nurses did not distinguish between patients with or without mobility disability. Several facilitators could be helpful initiating conversation with the patients. Public health nurses need more time and resources to facilitate conversation with patients with mobility disability to counsel lifestyle changes.
Cointroductions of Australian acacias and their rhizobial mutualists in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Warrington Staci , Ellis Allan , Novoa Ana , Wandrag Elizabeth M. , Hulme Philip E. , Duncan Richard P. , Valentine Alex , Le Roux Johannes J.
Published: May 2019

Aim

Mutualisms are often disrupted for plants introduced to new ranges, yet many of these plants have managed to obtain effective mutualistic associations in their new ranges. There are two potential pathways for non‐native plants to reassemble mutualisms: cointroduction (i.e. familiar associations with cointroduced mutualists) or ecological fitting (i.e. forming or adapting novel associations with resident native mutualists). We assessed the importance of each pathway for mutualist reassembly in four AustralianAcaciaspecies (A. baileyana,A. dealbata,A. decurrensandA. melanoxylon) and their associated nitrogen‐fixing rhizobial symbionts in two non‐native locations.

Location

Native ranges of acacias in south‐eastern Australia and two non‐native ranges in New Zealand and South Africa.

Methods

Rhizobia associated with each acacia species in each country were isolated and identified based on DNA sequencing of the housekeepingrecAgene and the symbioticnodAgene. Separate phylogenies were reconstructed for each gene region to infer biogeographic histories of acacia‐associated rhizobia. Selected rhizobial strains for each acacia species by country combination were used as inocula in a glasshouse experiment and early growth kinetics and nitrogen fixation efficiency of acacia seedlings were compared between inoculum treatments to determine symbiotic effectiveness.

Results

All isolated rhizobial strains belonged to the genusBradyrhizobium. Phylogenetic analyses revealed almost no country‐ or species‐specific clusters of these strains for either gene region and indicated that most acacia‐associated bradyrhizobia in New Zealand and South Africa were cointroduced from Australia. These results were supported by little variation in the growth performances of acacia seedlings, irrespective of inoculum treatment.

Main conclusions

This study revealed that cointroduction of Australian acacias and their rhizobia may be more prevalent than previously thought. Additionally, a single rhizobium cointroduction event may be sufficient to facilitate the establishment of effective mutualisms in numerousAcaciaspecies, potentially leading to an invasion meltdown.
How to deliver personalized cardiac resynchronization therapy through the precise measurement of the acute hemodynamic response: Insights from the iSpot trial
Authors: Shun‐Shin Matthew J. , Miyazawa Alejandra A. , Keene Daniel , Sterliński Maciej , Sokal Adam , Van Heuverswyn Frédéric , Rinaldi Christopher A. , Cornelussen Richard , Stegemann Berthold , Francis Darrel P. , Whinnett Zachary
Published: May 2019

Introduction

New pacing technologies offer a greater choice of left ventricular pacing sites and greater personalization of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The effects on cardiac function of novel pacing configurations are often compared using multi‐beat averages of acute hemodynamic measurements. In this analysis of the iSpot trial, we explore whether this is sufficient.

Materials and Methods

The iSpot trial was an international, prospective, acute hemodynamic trial that assessed seven CRT configurations: standard CRT, MultiSpot (posterolateral vein), and MultiVein (anterior and posterior vein) pacing. Invasive and noninvasive blood pressure, and left ventricular (LV) dP/dtmax were recorded. Eight beats were recorded before and after an alternation from AAI to the tested pacing configuration and vice‐versa. Eight alternations were performed for each configuration at each of the five atrioventricular delays.

Results

Twenty‐five patients underwent the full protocol of eight alternations. Only four (16%) patients had a statistically significant >3 mm Hg improvement over conventional CRT configuration (posterolateral vein, distal electrode). However, if only one alternation was analyzed (standard multi‐beat averaging protocol), 15 (60%) patients falsely appeared to have a superior nonconventional configuration. Responses to pacing were significantly correlated between the different hemodynamic measures: invasive systolic blood pressure (SBP) vs noninvasive SBP r = 0.82 (P < .001); invasive SBP vs LV dP/dt r = 0.57, r2 = 0.32 (P < .001).

Conclusions

Current standard multibeat acquisition protocols are unfortunately unable to prevent false impressions of optimality arising in individual patients. Personalization processes need to include distinct repeated transitions to the tested pacing configuration in addition to averaging multiple beats. The need is not only during research stages but also during clinical implementation.
Gendering the Representative Work of the European Parliament: A Political Analysis of Women MEP's Perceptions of Gender Equality in Party Groups
Authors: Kantola Johanna , Rolandsen Agustín Lise
Published: May 2019

European Parliament's (EP) party groups are crucial to democratic representation in the EU. Much of the academic research about party groups has been gender‐blind. This article draws on qualitative methods to undertake a gender analysis of EP party groups. The article analyses the gendered experiences of women MEPs from two Nordic countries, Denmark and Finland, and draws on interview data with 18 women MEPs from these two member states to explore their perceptions of gender equality in the political groups. The findings illustrate that party groups exhibit some shared and some diversified gendered norms as well as concrete practices for advancing the position of women, including informal women's networks. We draw attention to the shortcomings in m/paternity leave rights in the EP and the lack of political will within the party groups to tackle this, which is further cementing exclusionary practices of the institution.
Moderate alteration to gut microbiota brought by colorectal adenoma resection
Authors: Yu Si‐Yi , Xie Yuan‐Hong , Qiu Yi‐Wen , Chen Ying‐Xuan , Fang Jing‐Yuan
Published: May 2019

Background and Aim

Microbial dysbiosis is involved in the development of colorectal cancer and its most common precancerous lesion, colorectal adenoma. Endoscopic resection is one of the procedures for primary prevention of colorectal cancer, yet little is known about how the endoscopic therapy influences gut microbiota.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of 20 patients who underwent endoscopic resection of colorectal adenoma and analyzed the fecal microbiota before and 3 months after adenoma resection. MiSeq sequencing of 16S rRNA genes was performed to determine the alterations in microbial diversity and structure. To discriminate the microbiota of the two groups, random forest and receiver operating characteristic analysis were applied, and a genus‐based microbiota signature was obtained.

Results

Despite few alterations in overall microbial structure after adenoma resection, the abundance of Parabacteroides revealed a significant increase postoperatively (3.8% vs 1.5%, 0.1160), and the microbiota signature of Parabacteroides, Streptococcus, and Ruminococcus showed an optimal discriminating performance of postoperative status with the area under the curve 0.788, P < 0.001.

Conclusion

Fecal microbial alterations indicate the moderate influence of adenoma resection on gut microbiota and lay the groundwork for microbial prediction of adenoma recurrence. Larger sample studies are further required to validate the findings.
Short‐term and long‐term impacts of Helicobacter pylori eradication with reverse hybrid therapy on the gut microbiota
Authors: Hsu Ping‐I , Pan Chao‐Yu , Kao John Y , Tsay Feng‐Woei , Peng Nan‐Jing , Kao Sung‐Shuo , Chen Yan‐Hua , Tsai Tzung‐Jiun , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Tsai Kuo‐Wang
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

Anti‐Helicobacter pylori therapy may lead to the growth of pathogenic or antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in the gut. The study aimed to investigate the short‐term and long‐term impacts of H. pylori eradication with reverse hybrid therapy on the components and macrolide resistance of the gut microbiota.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori‐related gastritis patients were administered a 14‐day reverse hybrid therapy. Fecal samples were collected before treatment and at the end of week 2, week 8, and week 48. The V3–V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene in fecal specimens was amplified by polymerase chain reaction and sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. Additionally, amplification of erm(B) gene (encoding erythromycin resistance methylase) was performed.

Results

Reverse hybrid therapy resulted in decreased relative abundances of Firmicutes (from 62.0% to 30.7%; P < 0.001) and Actinobacteria (from 3.4% to 0.6%; 0.032) at the end of therapy. In contrast, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria increased from 10.2% to 49.1% (0.002). These microbiota alterations did not persist but returned to the initial levels at week 8 and week 48. The amount of erm(B) gene in fecal specimens was comparable with the pretreatment level at week 2 but increased at week 8 (0.025) and then returned to the pretreatment level by week 48.

Conclusions

Helicobacter pylori eradication with reverse hybrid therapy can lead to short‐term gut dysbiosis. The amount of erm(B) gene in the stool increased transiently after treatment and returned to the pretreatment level at 1‐year post‐treatment.
Electroacupuncture plus on‐demand gastrocaine for refractory functional dyspepsia: Pragmatic randomized trial
Authors: Chung Vincent CH , Wong Charlene HL , Wu Irene XY , Ching Jessica YL , Cheung William KW , Yip Benjamin HK , Chan Kam Leung , Cheong Pui Kuan , Wu Justin CY
Published: May 2019

Background and Aim

Treatment options for functional dyspepsia (FD) refractory to pharmacological treatments are limited but the effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA) is uncertain. We assessed the effectiveness of EA combined with on‐demand gastrocaine.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center, assessor‐blind, randomized parallel‐group 2‐arm trial on Helicobacter pylori negative FD patients of the postprandial distress syndrome subtype refractory to proton pump inhibitor, prokinetics, or H2 antagonists. Enrolled participants were block randomized in a 1:1 ratio, with concealed random sequence. The treatment and control groups both received on‐demand gastrocaine for 12 weeks, but only those in treatment group were offered 20 sessions of EA over 10 weeks. The primary endpoint was the between‐group difference in proportion of patients achieving adequate relief of symptoms at week 12.

Results

Of 132 participants randomly assigned to EA plus on‐demand gastrocaine (n = 66) or on‐demand gastrocaine alone (n = 66), 125 (94.7%) completed all follow‐up at 12 weeks. The EA group had a compliance rate 97.7%. They had a significantly higher likelihood in achieving adequate symptom relief at 12 weeks, with a clinically relevant number needed to treat (NNT) value of 2.36 (95% CI: 1.74, 3.64). Among secondary outcomes, statistically and clinically significant improvements were observed among global symptom (NNT = 3.85 [95% CI: 2.63, 7.69]); postprandial fullness and early satiation (NNT = 5.00 [95% CI: 2.86, 25.00]); as well as epigastric pain, epigastric burning, and postprandial nausea (NNT = 4.17 [95% CI: 2.56, 11.11]). Adverse events were minimal and nonsignificant.

Conclusion

For refractory FD, EA provides significant, clinically relevant symptom relief when added to on‐demand gastrocaine (ChiCTR‐IPC‐15007109).