bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating music‐based interventions with Gamma‐frequency stimulation: Implications for healthy ageing
Authors: Tichko Parker , Kim Ji Chul , Large Edward , Loui Psyche
Published: November 2020

In recent years, music‐based interventions (MBIs) have risen in popularity as a non‐invasive, sustainable form of care for treating dementia‐related disorders, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite their clinical potential, evidence regarding the efficacy of MBIs on patient outcomes is mixed. Recently, a line of related research has begun to investigate the clinical impact of non‐invasive Gamma‐frequency (e.g., 40 Hz) sensory stimulation on dementia. Current work, using non‐human‐animal models of AD, suggests that non‐invasive Gamma‐frequency stimulation can remediate multiple pathophysiologies of dementia at the molecular, cellular and neural‐systems scales, and, importantly, improve cognitive functioning. These findings suggest that the efficacy of MBIs could, in theory, be enhanced by incorporating Gamma‐frequency stimulation into current MBI protocols. In the current review, we propose a novel clinical framework for non‐invasively treating dementia‐related disorders that combines previous MBIs with current approaches employing Gamma‐frequency sensory stimulation. We theorize that combining MBIs with Gamma‐frequency stimulation could increase the therapeutic power of MBIs by simultaneously targeting multiple biomarkers of dementia, restoring neural activity that underlies learning and memory (e.g., Gamma‐frequency neural activity, Theta‐Gamma coupling), and actively engaging auditory and reward networks in the brain to promote behavioural change.
Added value of cerebrospinal fluid multimarker analysis in diagnosis and progression of dementia
Authors: Álvarez Ignacio , Diez‐Fairen Monica , Aguilar Miquel , González Jose Manuel , Ysamat Montse , Tartari Juan Pablo , Carcel Maria , Alonso Alvaro , Brix Britta , Arendt Philipp , Pastor Pau
Published: November 2020

Background and purpose: Recently, some emerging cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers have been proposed as diagnostic tools for Alzheimer disease (AD) that can have an effect on disease progression. We analyze the accuracy of these CSF markers for diagnosis of AD in reference to brain amyloid positron emission tomography (PET). We also investigated whether they help in differentiating AD from other dementias and examined their influence in tracing the progression to dementia. Methods: Amyloid‐β (Aβ) 1–42, total tau (t‐tau), phosphorylated tau, Aβ40, Aβ38, beta‐site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE‐1), neurogranin (ng), phosphorylated neurofilament heavy‐chain, and α‐synuclein (α‐syn) CSF levels were analyzed in 319 subjects, among whom 57 also underwent an amyloid PET scan. We also analyzed longitudinal clinical data from 239 subjects. Results: Emerging CSF markers, especially ng/BACE‐1 ratio (area under the curve = 0.77) and their combinations with core AD CSF markers (all AUCs >0.85), showed high accuracy to discriminate amyloid PET positivity. Subjects with AD had higher CSF BACE‐1, ng, and α‐syn levels than those with non‐AD dementia. CSF t‐tau/α‐syn ratio was higher in subjects with dementia with Lewy bodies than in those with frontotemporal dementia. Most emerging/core AD ratios predicted a faster conversion from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage to AD and appeared to be helpful when core AD CSF markers were discordant. In addition, the rate of cognitive decline was associated with all CSF core AD markers, several emerging/core AD two‐marker ratios, and CSF ng levels. Conclusions: These results suggest that emerging biomarkers in conjunction with core AD markers improve diagnosis of AD, are associated with the conversion from MCI into AD, and predict a faster progression of dementia.
Dentition status and 10‐year higher‐level functional capacity trajectories in older adults
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Yoshihara Akihiro
Published: November 2020

Aim

The effect of dentition status on higher‐level functional capacity patterns over time remains unclear. We aimed to identify distinct higher‐level functional capacity trajectories in individuals aged 70–80 years, and examine whether dentition status at 70 years predicted the trajectory.

Methods

The study included 551 community‐dwelling adults aged 70 years at baseline. Higher‐level functional capacity was measured using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG‐IC) up to the age of 80 years. A higher TMIG‐IC score indicated a higher level of competence. Group‐based trajectory modeling was used to identify distinct TMIG‐IC trajectories. The number of teeth, use of dentures, sex and education were added as baseline group membership predictors. Dental visits, health behaviors, body mass index and comorbidities during observation were added as time‐varying covariates.

Results

Three TMIG‐IC trajectories were identified: “high/stable” (65.3%), “middle/decline” (24.5%) and “low/decline” (10.2%). A lower number of teeth and non‐denture use were associated with increased odds of a low/decline trajectory relative to a high/stable trajectory (odds ratio 1.09, 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.14 [per one decrease] and odds ratio 3.96, 95% confidence interval 1.54–10.16, respectively).

Conclusions

Older adults with fewer teeth and those without dentures at the age of 70 years were more likely to follow a trajectory toward functional decline with low baseline TMIG‐IC scores, which further declines by the age of 80 years. These findings suggest that preserving natural teeth later in life, as well as using dentures, could contribute toward maintaining a higher‐level functional competence. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 48–53.
Spatial aspects of pain modulation are not disrupted in adolescents with migraine
Authors: Nahman‐Averbuch Hadas , Thomas Priya L. , Schneider Victor J. , Chamberlin Leigh Ann , Peugh James L. , Hershey Andrew D. , Powers Scott W. , Coghill Robert C. , King Christopher D.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To compare spatial pain modulation capabilities between adolescents with and without migraine.

Background

Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) responses at the leg are similar in adolescents with versus without migraine. However, the anatomical region of testing may affect spatial pain modulation capabilities as differences in nociceptive processing between patients with migraine and healthy controls are found in local areas that are near the site of clinical pain but not in nonlocal areas. This study aimed to examine spatial pain modulation capabilities tested by the CPM paradigm using test stimulus applied to a local body area.

Methods

Nineteen adolescents with migraine (age 14.9 ± 2.3, mean ± SD; 16 female) and 20 healthy adolescents (age 13.8 ± 2.5, mean ± SD; 16 female) completed this case–control study at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were assessed at the trapezius before and during immersion of the foot in a cold water bath (8°C).

Results

In the migraine group (146.0 ± 79.1, mean ± SD), compared to healthy controls (248.0 ± 145.5, mean ± SD), significantly lower PPT (kilopascal) values were found (estimate = 124.28, 95% CI: 58.98, 189.59, p < 0.001; effect size: d = 1.40). No differences between the groups were found for pain intensity and unpleasantness ratings of cold‐water immersion nor the CPM response.

Conclusions

This study found altered ascending nociceptive processing of mechanical stimuli at the neck in adolescents with migraine. However, endogenous pain modulatory mechanisms were functional and not altered. In light of other studies, impairments in inhibitory control may not be involved in migraine pathophysiology in pediatric patients regardless of stimulus location.
To stage or not to stage: determining the true clinical significance of the biopsy tract through perinephric fat in assessing renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Valencia‐Guerrero Aida , Oliva Esther , Wu Chin‐Lee , Wu Shulin , Rice‐Stitt Travis , Sadow Peter M , Dahl Douglas M , Feldman Adam S , Arellano Ronald S , Cornejo Kristine M
Published: November 2020

Aims

Perinephric fat invasion (PFI) is a key component of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) staging, but there are limited data pertaining to biopsy tract seeding (BTS) resulting in perirenal tissue involvement [BTS with perinephric fat invasion (BTS‐P)].The aim is to correlate clinical outcomes with pathologic stage to determine whether the presence of BTS‐P should be considered a criterion to stage RCC as part of the pT3a category in the absence of any other upstaging variables.

Materials and results

We identified 304 renal biopsies from patients with subsequent nephrectomies for RCC; 33 of the tumours contained PFI. Each case was reviewed to determine the presence of BTS‐P and other forms of invasion [e.g. non‐BTS‐P PFI, sinus fat invasion (SFI), and/or renal vein invasion (RVI)], and these findings were compared with survival outcomes. Ten (30%) of 33 tumours with PFI showed BTS‐P as the only finding, and were otherwise pT1 tumours; six (60%) patients were alive without disease (AWOD) (mean, 77.5 months), three were lost to follow‐up (LTF), and one died of other disease (DOOD). Two patients showed true PFI plus BTS‐P; one was LTF and one is AWOD at 107 months. Ten (43%) of 23 patients with tumours with true invasion (PFI ± SFI and/or RVI) are AWOD (mean, 97.7 months), eight (35%) died of disease (DOD), four were LTF, and one DOOD. Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that the cancer‐specific survival was significantly worse in patients with true invasion (P = 0.044) than in those with BTS‐P as the sole finding.

Conclusion

Patients with tumours showing BTS‐P only appear to have better outcomes than those with other non‐PFI invasion, suggesting that this finding should not be upstaged to pT3a. Additional studies are needed to corroborate the significance of our observations.
AVAILABILITY OF IRON STORES BUILT UP BY IRON DEXTRIN
Authors: Olsson Sigvard , Lundvall Ove , Weinfeld Aleksander
Published: November 2020

Iron stores built up by iron dextrin have been studied in a group of iron‐depleted, non‐anemic blood donor volunteers. The chelatability by desferrioxamine (DF) of these iron stores was repeatedly examined during 21 months at different loads of administered iron. The availability for DF chelation was lower as compared to natural iron stores of a comparable size. The availability for Hb formation was studied with vigorous phlebotomy and was found to be reduced. An iron‐deficient state developed when approximately 65% of the administered iron was mobilized. Non‐available iron deposits could be demonstrated in bone marrow smears in all subjects at the end of performed phlebotomies.
CALIBRATED HYPOXEMIA TEST IN NORMAL SUBJECTS AND CORONARY PATIENTS
Authors: Broch Ole Jacob
Published: November 2020

There is a great need for a calibrated test that can be used in coronary patients for diagnostic purposes and for evaluating the effect of drugs. A hypoxemia test with 7½% oxygen in nitrogen on mouthpiece, with continuous registration of the oxygen saturation of the blood, has been evaluated in 13 patients with coronary disease and in 5 normal subjects. The test usually gives a decline of the oxygen saturation of the blood to 70% or less, the level necessary to give a maximal positive response. The dispersion of oxygen saturation is rather great. During hypoxemia of short duration the heart rate and the cardiac output will increase, but will never compensate for the decline of oxygen saturation. The change in acid base equilibrium is very slight. No significant change of BP occurred during hypoxemia. The degree of oxygen saturation will therefore give a good indication of the coronary strain and may provide a reproducible and calibrated test for use in coronary insufficiency.
FURTHER EXPERIENCES WITH KIDNEY PRESERVATION FOR 24 HOURS USING CONTINUOUS HYPOTHERMIC PERFUSION
Authors: Løkkegaard H. , Gyrd‐Hansen N. , Hansen R. Iversen , Hasselager E. , Nerstrøm B. , Rasmussen Folke
Published: November 2020

Preservation of pig kidneys for 24 hours at 8°C has been studied using continuous perfusion with cryoprecipitated, microfiltered, oxygenated ACD‐plasma. The perfusion pressure was about 65/30 mmHg and the flow from 1 to 2 ml/g kidney weight/min. Five consecutive experiments were performed. All the animals survived and were followed for three months. Measurements inulin, endogenous creatinine, urea and PAH clearances 10, 31 and 94 days after transplantation showed normal values as compared to a control group of autotransplanted, not long‐term preserved pig kidneys. The only permanent functional damage was a reduced maximal tubular excretion of PAH.
HEREDITARY ANGIONEUROTIC OEDEMA IN THREE FAMILIES
Authors: Blohmé G. , Ysander L. , Korsan‐Bengtsen K. , Laurell A.‐B.
Published: November 2020

Three families from the western part of Sweden with hereditary periodic oedema (HANE) are reported. Complement analyses were performed in 11 of 21 members of the families. They all have the biochemical abnormality characterizing this disease, with low values of CI INH. The symptoms of HANE are not the same from patient to patient, nor in the same patient from attack to attack. The frequency of peripheral oedema, abdominal pain and other symptoms were studied. The influence of menstrual period and pregnancy are discussed. Therapeutic trials with methyltestosterone and aminocaproic acid are reported.
LONG‐TERM PROGNOSIS AFTER VENTRICULAR FIBRILLATION IN ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Authors: Ruosteenoja R. , Inkovaara J. , Koskinen P. J.
Published: November 2020

During the period 1965–1969 a total of 87 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have been discharged from hospital alive after recovering from one or more episodes of ventricular fibrillation (VF). The average age was 59 years (39–82). Up to the time of follow‐up the group had been observed for 6–62 months. At the follow‐up 47 of the survivors were alive and the average age was significantly lower than that of the non‐survivors. The prognosis was not found to be significantly better in the cases of “primary” as opposed to “complicating” VF. The actual time of the first VF had no significant influence on the survival rate. Normal heart volume upon discharge was found to be a favourable factor in prognosis. After convalescence 16 of the 44 patients in employment prior to the onset of disease returned to work. Other factors influencing return to work are discussed.
NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL STUDIES IN HEREDITARY AMYLOIDOSIS WITH POLYNEUROPATHY
Authors: Andersson Rune , Blom Sigfrid
Published: November 2020

Sixteen cases with histologically verified amyloidosis with polyneuropathy have been investigated electro‐myographically (EMG) and motor conduction velocity (MCV) has been recorded. Eleven cases were familial and five sporadic. Clinically the polyneuropathy was pronounced in nine cases, moderate in six, and slight in one case. The EMG changes correlated well with the clinical findings and with the duration of symptoms, and were more marked in the long‐standing cases. The MCV was abnormal, but correlated less well with the clinical pattern. The denervation was most obvious in the distal parts of the lower extremities. EMG of the short toe extensor muscles was found to be an especially useful examination. The findings in familial and sporadic cases were similar. The same examinations were performed on nine members of one afflicted family. Examinations of biopsy specimens of the skin did not reveal amyloid deposits. In two of the nine cases no clinical or neuropnysiological findings of peripheral polyneuropathy were revealed. In seven cases clinical symptoms and/or signs of polyneuropathy were observed. They were, however, discrete. Three of these seven cases showed neurophysiological changes. In four patients no conclusive neurophysiological abnormalities were found.
THE EFFECT OF ADRENERGIC β‐RECEPTOR BLOCKADE ON CORONARY CIRCULATION IN MAN DURING WORK
Authors: Ekström‐Jodal Barbro , Häggendal Egil , Malmberg Rolf , Svedmyr Nils
Published: November 2020

The effect of an adrenergic β‐receptor blocker (sotalol) on coronary circulation and heart metabolism has been studied in six healthy subjects at rest and during work. Sotalol did not produce any uniform effects at rest. During work sotalol reduced the increase of cardiac output, oxygen consumption and coronary blood flow as well as the lowering of the total peripheral resistance which is produced by muscle activity. Despite the fact that sotalol reduced the work of the heart musculature and its oxygen consumption, oxygen extraction from coronary blood was increased. The pyruvate/lactate quotient in coronary venous blood was decreased during work by sotalol. The mechanism for reduction of metabolic vasodilatation by sotalol is discussed. It seems probable that after β‐receptor blockade the contracting effect of adrenergic α‐receptor stimulation gains an increased significance.
SPECIFIC DETERMINATIONS OF PROTHROMBIN FOR EVALUATION OF LIVER FUNCTION
Authors: Norén Ingrid , Blombäck Margareta
Published: November 2020

Prothrombin has been determined specifically with a two‐stage assay, based on intrinsic activation of prothrombin, and the values compared with other methods for determination of prothrombin and related factors. It was found that prothrombin values in healthy subjects were not influenced by age or sex. Prothrombin and Normotest values in acutely intoxicated alcoholics, without liver cirrhosis or hepatitis, did not show significant differences from those of normal controls. Prothrombin values in patients with cirrhosis and hepatitis were correlated to Normotest and prothrombin‐proconvertin values. In patients with cirrhosis prothrombin values were correlated to serum albumin concentration, in patients with hepatitis to glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) values, and thus appeared to indicate the degree of liver damage. Prothrombin values obtained with the present two‐stage method are not significantly influenced by anti‐thrombin levels.
DIURNAL VARIATIONS IN THE CONCENTRATIONS OF BLOOD ACETOACETATE, 3‐HYDROXYBUTYRATE AND GLUCOSE IN NORMAL PERSONS
Authors: Wildenhoff K. E.
Published: November 2020

The blood concentration of acetoacetate (AA), 3‐hydroxybutyrate (3‐HB) and glucose has been determined over a 24‐hour period in 16 normal subjects, 22–39 years old. The mean fasting concentration of AA was 29 ± 10 μmol/l (S.D.). The mean fasting concentration of 3‐HB was 38 ± 31 μmol/l (S.D.). During the evening there was a characteristic rise in the concentration of AA and 3‐HB to a peak at midnight, where mean concentration were 4 times greater than mean fasting concentration. In most of the subjects a ketone body peak was also found at 5 p.m. and in seven also at noon. In connection with the rise in blood glucose following lunch and dinner an inverse relationship was seen between the concentrations of blood ketone bodies and blood glucose. There was a considerable positive correlation between blood AA and blood 3‐HB.
HYPOTENSIVE EFFECT OF METHYLDOPA IN RENAL FAILURE ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERTENSION
Authors: Stenbæk Ø. , Myhre E. , Brodwall E. K. , Hansen T.
Published: November 2020

Increased sensitivity to the hypotensive action of methyldopa is often seen in patients with renal failure. It is generally accepted that the increased sensitivity is due to drug accumulation in renal failure, though there are very few studies on this topic. The hypotensive effect and the serum concentration of unconjugated methyldopa have been determined in 6 patients with advanced renal failure and 7 patients with essential hypertension and normal or slightly reduced renal function. Following i.v. injection of 200 mg methyldopa the maximal decrease of the supine mean BP was on an average 21.5% in patients with renal failure and 11.5% in patients with essential hypertension without renal insufficiency. The maximal response was somewhat delayed in renal failure. The supine, standing and post‐exercise BP was recorded during shorty‐term oral treatment in the two groups of patients. The average reduction of the mean BP in patients with renal failure was 11, 16 and 20%, respectively. In patients with essential hypertension the figures were 16, 26 and 25%, respectively. The slightly higher hypotensive effect in the patients with normal renal function, however, was achieved after an average serum concentration of unconjugated methyldopa amounting to more than 4 times that found in the patients with renal failure. The study demonstrated an augmented sensitivity to the hypotensive effect of methyldopa in renal failure. The high sensitivity to the hypotensive action of the drug was not due to increased serum concentration of unconjugated methyldopa.
ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC CHANGES DURING SELECTIVE CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY
Authors: Grendahl Helge , Eie Harald , Nordvik Arne , Müller Carsten
Published: November 2020

During selective coronary angiography ECG was recorded in leads 1 and II in 95 consecutive patients with the purpose of studying the ECG changes invoked by the injection of 7 ml Urografin 60% (Schering). Marked but transient changes were seen, probably caused by the physico‐chemical properties of the contrast medium. The selective injection of the same volume of Ringer solution did not evoke any ECG changes. When a blood volume in the coronary circulation is replaced by contrast medium or Ringer solution, transient coronary hypoxia will result. This hypoxia, therefore, is not the cause of the ECG changes observed in coronary angiography. Selective coronary angiography appears to impair depolarization as well as repolarization, the latter being the most affected function. Absence of ECG response during coronary injections indicates severe coronary artery disease or the presence of a single coronary artery. Right coronary injection is followed by an increase in PQ interval; arrhythmias seldom occur but are more likely to appear during right than during left coronary injections. The changes observed in this series are increased QRS and QT duration, a shift in QRS axis in the frontal plane, which is clockwise during right and counter‐clockwise during left coronary injections. The QRS vector is doubled. The T axis rotates in the frontal plane towards + 120° during left and towards – 75° during right coronary injection. When the T axis has this direction before angiography, no shift in axis is seen during injection of contrast medium.
TUBULAR REABSORPTION OF PHOSPHATE AND CALCIUM IN PRIMARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Authors: Andersen P. , Mosekilde L.
Published: November 2020

Phosphate clearance (Clph) and the renal tubular reabsorption of phosphate and calcium (TRP and TRCa) have been determined in 90 patients, 31 with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP), 9 with non‐parathyroid hypercalcemia, 24 with nephrolithiasis and 26 with other diseases in order to determine the value of these parameters in diagnosing PHP. A high Clph (≥ 15 ml/min) was seen more commonly in patients with PHP than among patients in the other groups. Measurement of this parameter, however, was not found to be of any definite value in diagnosing PHP. Renal TRP < 80% was found in 35.5% of patients with PHP, in 33.3% of patients with non‐parathyroid hypercalcemia, in 0% of patients with nephrolithiasis and in 11.5% of patients with other diseases. The TRP, however, was found to vary with creatinine clearance (Cler) and thus the TRP could be used as a diagnostic parameter of PHP in patients with normal Cler (≥ 70 ml/min). The renal TRCa was found to be of aid in diagnosing PHP in patients with greatly increased serum calcium values. Thus a complete differentiation was found between patients with PHP and patients with non‐parathyroid hypercalcemia when the TRCa was compared with the serum calcium concentration.
Dealing with RV‐oversensing; separate sensitivity settings for brady and tachy sensing
Authors: Bhagirath Pranav , Beunder Kyle , van Halm Vokko
Published: November 2020

An 81‐year‐old male with a history of systolic heart failure due to an underlying ischemic cardiomyopathy with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 13% and QRS duration of 130 ms had undergone an uncomplicated cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator implantation (Quadra Assura MP, St. Jude Medical, LV lead (SJM Quartet 1458Q‐86), RA lead (Biotronik Safio S53) and RV shocklead (Biotronik Linox Smart S65 ProMRI) in 2015.
Association between lncRNA‐H19 polymorphisms and hepatoblastoma risk in an ethic Chinese population
Authors: Tan Tianbao , Li Jiahao , Wen Yang , Zou Yan , Yang Jiliang , Pan Jing , Hu Chao , Yao Yuxiao , Zhang Jiao , Xin Yijuan , Li Suhong , Xia Huimin , He Jing , Yang Tianyou
Published: November 2020

H19 polymorphisms are associated with increased susceptibility to several cancers; however, their role in hepatoblastoma remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between three H19 polymorphisms (rs2839698 G>A, rs3024270 C>G, rs217727 G>A) and hepatoblastoma susceptibility in 213 hepatoblastoma patients. The rs2839698 and rs3024270 polymorphisms were associated with significantly increased hepatoblastoma risk, with the GG genotype associated with a higher risk of hepatoblastoma than the CC genotype at the rs3024270 locus. The rs217727 polymorphism was associated with significantly decreased hepatoblastoma risk, with the AG genotype associated with a lower risk of hepatoblastoma than the GG genotype. These findings were confirmed by combined analysis, and stratification analysis revealed that age, gender and clinical stage were associated with increased hepatoblastoma susceptibility. The GGG and AGG haplotypes were significantly associated with increased hepatoblastoma risk compared with the GCA reference (rs2839698, rs3024270, rs217727). The rs2839698 and rs3024270 polymorphisms correlated with decreased MRPL23‐AS1 expression, whereas the rs217727 polymorphism was associated with increased MRPL23‐AS1 expression. Overall, the H19 rs2839698, rs3024270 and rs217727 polymorphisms were associated with hepatoblastoma susceptibility in a Chinese Han population.
Persistent Effects of Colonial Institutions on Long‐Run Development: Local Evidence from Regression Discontinuity Design in Argentina
Authors: Spruk Rok , Kovac Mitja
Published: November 2020

We exploit the discontinuity in the integration into the colonial court district of Real Audiencia in Upper Peru to estimate how colonial institutions have impacted local development across 527 departments in Argentina. Our identification strategy takes advantage of geo‐referenced spatial boundary splits with local quasi‐randomization between the localities integrated into the colonial court jurisdiction and the localities outside Audiencia's jurisdiction. The results show the impact of colonial institutions imposed by real audiencia in Upper Peru is both strong and remarkably persistent. Departments outside the colonial court district have lower literacy rates, a less computer‐literate population, better physical and digital infrastructure, and more widespread computer ownership. The established effects of real audiencia do not seem driven by the climatic conditions and environment of disease, and are robust to a battery of specification checks, placebo tests, and falsification tests. We show that Audiencia's effect persisted through its influence on public goods provision, economic specialization patterns, clientelist networks, and elite control of the political representation.
Beta‐defensin 1 gene polymorphisms in the pathologies of the oral cavity—Data from meta‐analysis: Association only with rs1047031 not with rs1800972, rs1799946, and rs11362
Authors: Ślebioda Zuzanna , Woźniak Tomasz , Dorocka‐Bobkowska Barbara , Woźniewicz Małgorzata , Kowalska Anna
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to reveal a potential association of the four functional polymorphisms in human Beta‐defensin 1 (DEFB1) gene: rs1047031(c*5G > A) at 3’UTR and rs11362 (−20 G > A), rs1800972(−44 C > G), and rs1799946 (−52 G > A) at 5’UTR with the risk of common oral cavity pathologies that included periodontitis, caries, lichen planus, and recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

Methods

The relevant studies were obtained by the two researchers from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 29, 2020. The manual search of the reference lists was also performed. Studies on DEFB1 gene polymorphisms and oral cavity disorders, using the case‐control genetic association analysis approach, and published as full texts in English were included. To assess the association strength, odds ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted.

Results

Thirteen publications met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated in this meta‐analysis. Statistically significant values of the association tests were found only for the rs1047031 polymorphism. Allele distribution in the rs1047031 polymorphism was significantly associated with susceptibility to oral cavity pathologies (adjusted P value = 0.003). The rare variant allele carriers had a significantly higher risk for oral disasters under recessive (CC vs CT + TT), and CC vs CT models. No significant correlations between rs11362, rs1800972, and rs1799946 and the risk of oral pathologies were revealed.

Conclusions

Significant association between rs1047031 polymorphism and risk of oral pathologies has been found, and therefore, we suggest to include this polymorphism in future research concerning the genetic background of the oral cavity diseases.
Coming to stay or to go? Stay intention and involved uncertainty of international students
Authors: Koenings Fabian , Haussen Tina , Toepfer Stefan , Uebelmesser Silke
Published: November 2020

Countries compete for young talents to alleviate skilled‐labor shortage. International students, who stay after graduation, allow host countries to overcome this challenge. This study investigates the factors associated with international students' intention to stay or to go after graduation from a host country's perspective. In contrast to the literature, this analysis employs survey data collected from first‐semester students. This assures that the analysis is not distorted by attrition. Furthermore, it allows policymakers to address those students who would be no longer around later in the absence of any policy measure. At the same time, it requires to deal with uncertainty as the actual migration decision will be later. This study introduces a set of uncertainty models to the migration context. The results show that, next to career opportunities and a stay in the host country before the studies, being enrolled in a Bachelor program instead of a Master program is significantly associated with the intention to stay. The findings are largely robust to different approaches accounting for the uncertainty involved. Further, Master students are found to be significantly more uncertain than Bachelor students.
Surfacing consumer psychosensory perceptions of a nonendemic food: The case of coffee in a tea culture
Authors: Caskey D'Arcy , Chen Judy F. , Warden Clyde A.
Published: November 2020

Introducing a culturally unfamiliar food to a new market requires understanding local meaning. Local psychological associations with nonendemic food often remain masked from common research methods such as surveys and home interviews. We apply a localized adaptation of the Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique to explore consumer psychosensory perceptions of nonendemic foods—the contemporary phenomenon of coffee's acceptance in Taiwan's tea‐dominated market. A purposive sample of 10 trial and 20 full study participants, avid coffee drinkers, ranged in age from 19 to 52. Participants were supplied with single‐use film‐based cameras that they carried about in everyday life to snap photos later used in structured interviews. Over 120 concepts were generated from a total count of 95,472 transcribed words. This resulted in six top‐level categories: emotions/feelings, flavor/taste/color, cultural integration, nature, eat/drink, and coffee type organized in hierarchies of meaning. Participants consistently associated coffee with the desire for relaxation, enjoyment, and nature.

Practical Applications

The revealed psychometric themes unearthed in this study suggest practical applications including informing market positioning segmentation strategies. In Taiwan's tea culture, findings show coffee plays a strong metaphorical role in consumers' psychology of escape and retreat from hectic daily life. Marketers of coffee should align with this theme rather than the standard Western messaging of energy and motivation boosting. This local metaphor provides coffee with a better opportunity for market adoption. Building on locally meaningful representations is key to market penetration and a strategy of glocalization that is fundamental to marketing of nonendemic food products. Successful diffusion of a nonendemic food product begins from a core group of dedicated loyal users, like the participants in the current study. By understanding the values these consumers associate with the nonendemic product, marketing managers can identify and select key features and meanings to emphasize in the product's design and marketing communications.
Risk of malaria in young children after periconceptional iron supplementation
Authors: Gies Sabine , Roberts Stephen A. , Diallo Salou , Lompo Olga M. , Tinto Halidou , Brabin Bernard J.
Published: November 2020

This study in Burkina Faso investigated whether offspring of young mothers who had received weekly periconceptional iron supplementation in a randomised controlled trial were at increased risk of malaria. A child safety survey was undertaken in the peak month of malaria transmission towards the end of the trial to assess child iron biomarkers, nutritional status, anaemia and malaria outcomes. Antenatal iron biomarkers, preterm birth, fetal growth restriction and placental pathology for malaria and chorioamnionitis were assessed. Data were available for 180 babies surviving to the time of the survey when their median age was 9 months. Prevalence of maternal iron deficiency in the last trimester based on low body iron stores was 16%. Prevalence of active placental malaria infection was 24.8%, past infection 59% and chorioamnionitis 55.6%. Babies of iron supplemented women had lower median gestational age. Four out of five children ≥ 6 months were iron deficient, and 98% were anaemic. At 4 months malaria prevalence was 45%. Child iron biomarkers, anaemia and malaria outcomes did not differ by trial arm. Factors associated with childhood parasitaemia were third trimester C‐reactive protein level (OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.1–3.9), active placental malaria (OR 5.8; 1.0–32.5,P= 0.042) and child body iron stores (OR 1.13; 1.04–1.23,P= 0.002). Chorioamnionitis was associated with reduced risk of child parasitaemia (OR 0.4; 0.1–1.0,P= 0.038). Periconceptional iron supplementation of young women did not alter body iron stores of their children. Higher child body iron stores and placental malaria increased risk of childhood parasitaemia.
ClpP1P2 peptidase activity promotes biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Mawla Gina D. , Hall Branwen M. , Cárcamo‐Oyarce Gerardo , Grant Robert A. , Zhang Jia Jia , Kardon Julia R. , Ribbeck Katharina , Sauer Robert T. , Baker Tania A.
Published: November 2020

Caseinolytic proteases (Clp) are central to bacterial proteolysis and control cellular physiology and stress responses. They are composed of a double‐ring compartmentalized peptidase (ClpP) and a AAA+ unfoldase (ClpX or ClpA/ClpC). Unlike many bacteria, the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa contains two ClpP homologs: ClpP1 and ClpP2. The specific functions of these homologs, however, are largely elusive. Here, we report that the active form of PaClpP2 is a part of a heteromeric PaClpP17P27 tetradecamer that is required for proper biofilm development. PaClpP114 and PaClpP17P27 complexes exhibit distinct peptide cleavage specificities and interact differentially with P. aeruginosa ClpX and ClpA. Crystal structures reveal that PaClpP2 has non‐canonical features in its N‐ and C‐terminal regions that explain its poor interaction with unfoldases. However, experiments in vivo indicate that the PaClpP2 peptidase active site uniquely contributes to biofilm development. These data strongly suggest that the specificity of different classes of ClpP peptidase subunits contributes to the biological outcome of proteolysis. This specialized role of PaClpP2 highlights it as an attractive target for developing antimicrobial agents that interfere specifically with late‐stage P. aeruginosa development.
Badnaviruses and banana genomes: a long association sheds light on Musa phylogeny and origin
Authors: Chabannes Matthieu , Gabriel Marc , Aksa Abderrahmane , Galzi Serge , Dufayard Jean‐François , Iskra‐Caruana Marie‐Line , Muller Emmanuelle
Published: November 2020

Badnaviruses are double‐stranded DNA pararetroviruses of the family Caulimoviridae. Badnaviral sequences found in banana are distributed over three main clades of the genus Badnavirus and exhibit wide genetic diversity. Interestingly, the nuclear genome of many plants, including banana, is invaded by numerous badnaviral sequences although badnaviruses do not require an integration step to replicate, unlike animal retroviruses. Here, we confirm that banana streak viruses (BSVs) are restricted to clades 1 and 3. We also show that only BSVs from clade 3 encompassing East African viral species are not integrated into Musa genomes, unlike BSVs from clade 1. Finally, we demonstrate that sequences from clade 2 are definitively integrated into Musa genomes with no evidence of episomal counterparts; all are phylogenetically distant from BSVs known to date. Using different molecular approaches, we dissected the coevolution between badnaviral sequences of clade 2 and banana by comparing badnavirus integration patterns across a banana sampling representing major Musa speciation events. Our data suggest that primary viral integrations occurred millions of years ago in banana genomes under different possible scenarios. Endogenous badnaviral sequences can be used as powerful markers to better characterize the Musa phylogeny, narrowing down the likely geographical origin of the Musa ancestor.
The Heliotropium marifolium complex in India and five new combinations in Euploca (Heliotropiaceae) from H. sect. Orthostachys (Boraginaceae s.l.)
Authors: Antony Anna Ancy , Javad P.
Published: November 2020

This paper includes studies on Heliotropium marifolium complex from India. Five new combinations in Euploca from H. sect. Orthostachys are proposed here. H. marifolium, H. marifolium subsp. wallichii, H. rottleri, H. cornutum and H. madurense are transferred to the genus Euploca. The taxonomic status of the unresolved name H. rottleri is also discussed.
The cellular mechanobiology of aging: from biology to mechanics
Authors: Bajpai Apratim , Li Rui , Chen Weiqiang
Published: November 2020

Aging is a chronic, complicated process that leads to degenerative physical and biological changes in living organisms. Aging is associated with permanent, gradual physiological cellular decay that affects all aspects of cellular mechanobiological features, including cellular cytoskeleton structures, mechanosensitive signaling pathways, and forces in the cell, as well as the cell's ability to sense and adapt to extracellular biomechanical signals in the tissue environment through mechanotransduction. These mechanobiological changes in cells are directly or indirectly responsible for dysfunctions and diseases in various organ systems, including the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, skin, and immune systems. This review critically examines the role of aging in the progressive decline of the mechanobiology occurring in cells, and establishes mechanistic frameworks to understand the mechanobiological effects of aging on disease progression and to develop new strategies for halting and reversing the aging process. Our review also highlights the recent development of novel bioengineering approaches for studying the key mechanobiological mechanisms in aging.
Determination of growth and development periods in orthodontics with artificial neural network
Authors: Kök Hatice , Izgi Mehmet Said , Acilar Ayşe Merve
Published: November 2020

Background

We aimed to determine the growth‐development periods and gender from the cervical vertebrae using the artificial neural network (ANN).

Setting and Sample Population

The cephalometric and hand‐wrist radiographs obtained from 419 patients aged between 8 and 17 years were included in our study.

Materials and Methods

Our retrospective study consisted of 419 patients’ cephalometric and hand‐wrist radiographs. The cephalometric radiographs were divided into six cervical vertebrae stages (CVS). Correlations were evaluated between hand‐wrist maturation level, CVS, and ages. Twenty‐seven vertebral reference points are marked on the cephalometric radiograph, and 32 linear measurements were taken. With the combination of these measurements, 24 different data sets were formed to train ANN. Thus, 24 different ANN models for the determination of the growth‐development periods were obtained. According to the results, seven ANN models that have a high success level and clinically applicable were selected. Also, an ANN model was done by all measurements and age for the determination of gender from cervical vertebrae.

Results

Significantly positive correlations between hand‐wrist maturation level, CVS and ages were detected. The ANN‐7 model (32 linear measurements and age) accuracy value was found 0.9427. The highest model accuracy, 0.8687, with the least linear measurements, was obtained by drawing 13 linear measurements, using vertical measurements and indents. Gender was determined using ANN (0.8950) on cervical vertebrae data.

Conclusion

The growth‐development periods and gender were determined from the cervical vertebrae by using ANN. The success of the ANN algorithm has been satisfactory. Further studies are needed for a fully automatic decision support system.
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in children
Authors: Manti Sara , Parisi G Fabio , Papale Maria , Licari Amelia , Chiappini Elena , Mulè Enza , Rotolo Novella , Leonardi Salvatore
Published: November 2020

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a pulmonary disease caused by Aspergillus induced hypersensitivity that occurs in immunocompetent but susceptible patients with asthma and/or cystic fibrosis (CF). In children, ABPA remains mostly undiagnosed resulting in one of the most common causes of poorly controlled asthma and highly significant morbidity in children with CF. Currently, no specific diagnostic criteria of ABPA for children are available. Corticosteroids and itraconazole are the mainstays of therapy although there is a lack of randomized clinical trials regarding their usefulness for ABPA in children. Several monoclonal antibodies, such as omalizumab and mepolizumab, may be potential therapies for refractory ABPA in pediatric patients; however, further data are required to clarify the optimal dose and duration of therapy as a routine treatment approach.
Immunological basis of virus‐host interaction in COVID‐19
Authors: La Torre Francesco , Leonardi Lucia , Giardino Giuliana , Volpi Stefano , Federici Silvia , Soresina Annarosa , Cancrini Caterina , Lougaris Vassilios , Castagnoli Riccardo , Corrente Stefania , Cardinale Fabio ,   the Immunology Commission of the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology (SIAIP)
Published: November 2020

COVID‐19 is a complex new viral disease, in which a strict balance between anti‐viral immune response and the ensuing organ inflammation has a critical role in determining the clinical course. In adults, compelling evidence exists indicating that an uncontrolled inflammatory response ("cytokine storm") is pivotal in determining disease progression and mortality. Children may rarely present with severe disease. Modulating factors related to the host's genetic factors, age‐related susceptibility, and the capability to mount appropriate immune responses might play a role in control virus load at an early stage and regulating the inflammatory reaction. Elucidating these mechanisms seems crucial in developing target therapies according to patient's age, immunologic status, and disease evolution in COVID‐19.
Updates on new monogenic inborn errors of immunity
Authors: Castagnoli Riccardo , Notarangelo Luigi Daniele
Published: November 2020

Inborn errors of immunity (IEI), also referred to as primary immunodeficiencies (PID), are disorders that, for the most part, result from mutations in genes involved in immune host defense and immune regulation. Thanks to the increased availability of high‐throughput DNA sequencing and the improvement in genomic data interpretation, the number of newly identified genes associated with IEI has exponentially increased over the last decade. We reviewed four recently described monogenic IEI and discussed the clinical and immunologic features of these new conditions.
Random forest analysis identifies change in serum creatinine and listing status as the most predictive variables of an outcome for young children on liver transplant waitlist
Authors: Kulkarni Sakil , Chi Lisa , Goss Charles , Lian Qinghua , Nadler Michelle , Stoll Janis , Doyle Maria , Turmelle Yumirle , Khan Adeel
Published: November 2020

Young children listed for liver transplant have high waitlist mortality (WL), which is not fully predicted by the PELD score. SRTR database was queried for children < 2 years listed for initial LT during 2002‐17 (n = 4973). Subjects were divided into three outcome groups: bad (death or removal for too sick to transplant), good (spontaneous improvement), and transplant. Demographic, clinical, listing history, and laboratory variables at the time of listing (baseline variables), and changes in variables between listing and prior to outcome (trajectory variables) were analyzed using random forest (RF) analysis. 81.5% candidates underwent LT, and 12.3% had bad outcome. RF model including both baseline and trajectory variables improved prediction compared to model using baseline variables alone. RF analyses identified change in serum creatinine and listing status as the most predictive variables. 80% of subjects listed with a PELD score at time of listing and outcome underwent LT, while ~70% of subjects in both bad and good outcome groups were listed with either Status 1 (A or B) prior to an outcome, regardless of initial listing status. Increase in creatinine on LT waitlist was predictive of bad outcome. Longer time spent on WL was predictive of good outcome. Subjects with biliary atresia, liver tumors, and metabolic disease had LT rate >85%, while >20% of subjects with acute liver failure had a bad outcome. Change in creatinine, listing status, need for RRT, time spent on LT waitlist, and diagnoses were the most predictive variables.