bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction between catechol‐O‐methyltransferase polymorphism and childhood trauma in suicidal ideation of patients with post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Kwon Aeran , Min Dongil , Kim Yourim , Jin Min Jin , Lee Seung‐Hwan
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Suicidal behavior of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene has been known to be associated with suicidal ideation. The present study aimed to explore the relationship of COMT polymorphism, childhood trauma, and suicidal ideation in patients with PTSD.

Methods

Fifty patients with PTSD and 62 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited, and COMT variants rs4680 and rs4633 were genotyped through peripheral blood. Psychological assessments such as the childhood trauma questionnaire (CTQ), the scale for suicidal ideation, the clinician‐administered PTSD scale for DSM‐5, and a PTSD checklist were administered. A regression analysis, the Johnson–Neyman technique, and a two‐way analysis of covariance were conducted.

Results

Interaction of COMT polymorphism (rs4680, rs4633) and childhood emotional abuse (subscale of CTQ) predicted suicidal ideation in patients with PTSD. Patients with the rs4680 Val/Val genotype, compared to Met carriers genotype, showed higher suicidal ideation when childhood emotional abuse was high. Patients with the rs4633 CC genotype, compared to T carriers genotype, showed higher suicidal ideation when childhood emotional abuse was high.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that vulnerability to suicide could be increased in the Val/Val genotype of COMT rs4680 and the CC genotype of rs4633 in patients with PTSD. Moreover, PTSD group with high childhood emotional abuse demonstrated a significantly higher suicidal ideation than did those with low childhood emotional abuse.
Residual functional SYNTAX score by quantitative flow ratio and improvement of exercise capacity after revascularization
Authors: Lee Seung Hun , Choi Ki Hong , Lee Joo Myung , Shin Doosup , Hwang Doyeon , Kim Hyun Kuk , Doh Joon‐Hyung , Nam Chang‐Wook , Shin Eun‐Seok , Jang Mi Ja , Im Se Young , Park Taek Kyu , Yang Jeong Hoon , Song Young Bin , Hahn Joo‐Yong , Choi Seung‐Hyuk , Koo Bon‐Kwon , Gwon Hyeon‐Cheol
Published: July 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the association between improvement in exercise capacity and functional completeness of revascularization, determined by residual functional SYNTAX score (rFSS), which is the sum of residual SYNTAX score of the vessels with post‐ percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) quantitative flow ratio (QFR) ≤0.80.

Background

In patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD), the efficacy of PCI in improving exercise capacity has been under debate and the differential effect of PCI for exercise capacity, according to functional completeness of revascularization, has not been evaluated.

Methods

Among patients enrolled in the QFR multicenter registry, 110 patients who underwent routine exercise treadmill tests before and after PCI were analyzed. Patients were classified into functional complete revascularization (CR) group (rFSS = 0) and functional incomplete revascularization (IR) group (rFSS ≥ 1). Increase of exercise time after PCI was compared between the two groups. Improvement of exercise capacity was defined as ≥10% increase of exercise time after PCI.

Results

Functional CR was achieved in 79 patients (71.8%), otherwise classified as functional IR in 31 patients (28.2%) without differences in baseline characteristics including medication profiles. Increase of exercise time was significantly associated with increase of 3‐vessel QFR (sum of QFRs in all three vessels; r = .198, p = .038) and rFSS (r = −.312, p < .001), but not with decrease of SYNTAX score (r = .097, p = .313). The rFSS showed significantly higher c‐index to predict the improvement of exercise capacity after PCI than increase of 3‐vessel QFR or decrease of SYNTAX score (0.722 vs. 0.627 vs. 0.492, respectively, p < 0.001). Patients with functional CR, defined by rFSS, showed significantly higher absolute and relative increase in exercise time than those with functional IR (97.7 s vs. 12.5 s, p < .001; 25.4% vs. 3.6%, p = .001). Functional CR was an independent predictor for improvement of exercise capacity after PCI (adjusted OR 4.656, 95% CI 1.678–12.920, p = .002).

Conclusions

Integrated anatomic and functional scoring system (rFSS) was significantly associated with improvement of exercise capacity after PCI. SIHD patients with functional CR, defined by rFSS, showed significantly higher exercise capacity after PCI than those with functional IR.
Environment during grain filling affects pasta color
Authors: Cabas‐Lühmann Patricia A. , Manthey Frank A.
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives

Pasta color is an important quality parameter for pasta companies and consumers. This research was carried out to determine the relative importance of environment and genotype effects on pasta color and related traits using durum lines grown in North Dakota, USA; to determine the relationships between pasta color and semolina quality traits; and to identify key environmental growing conditions that affect pasta color.

Findings

The environment had the highest relative proportion of variance for pasta color (ranged from 89% to 94%) and related traits. Stepwise linear regression analyses indicated that the number of days with relative humidity (rh) ≥80% was associated with diminished pasta brightness, yellowness, and enhanced pasta redness, while the number of days ≤13°C was associated with enhanced pasta yellowness and pasta color score. The negative effect of high rh could be related to speck counts and soluble brown pigment content, while the positive effect of low temperature was not clear.

Conclusions

The number of days with rh ≥ 80% diminished pasta color, while the number of days ≤13°C enhanced pasta color. Speck count, soluble brown pigment content, and semolina redness negatively affected pasta color, while yellow pigment content and semolina yellowness had a positive effect.

Significance and novelty

Since weather cannot be controlled, this information will be helpful in selecting growing locations with more favorable climatic conditions to achieve better quality and pasta color traits. Understanding the relationships between climatic variables and quality traits will aid in developing cropping systems that favor high‐quality durum wheat.
Intraventricular metastatic melanoma: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bernstock Joshua D. , Chagoya Gustavo , Elsayed Galal A. , Fox Brandon M. , Mir Nabiel , Gupta Saksham , Chua Melissa , Atchley Travis J. , Lobbous Mina , Sotoudeh Houman , Hackney James , Friedman Gregory K. , Harrigan Mark R.
Published: July 2020

Intraventricular melanoma is a very rare and highly malignant disease. Safe resection is the mainstay of treatment, but no standard guidelines exist for adjuvant therapy. Early histologic and molecular diagnosis is key for improved survival.
Isolated IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis with normal serum IgG4 levels—A case report
Authors: Shu Yanyun , Cheng Juanjuan , Ye Jin , Pan Xiaoli
Published: July 2020

The isolated IgG4‐SC that absent from AIP is quite rare and difficult to diagnose. We presented a case of isolated IgG4‐SC with the normal serum IgG4 which was hard to differentiate with cholangiocarcinoma. Under such circumstances, liver pathology has a pivotal role in the diagnosis.
Efficient photocatalytic degradation of gas‐phase formaldehyde by Pt/TiO2 nanowires in a continuous flow reactor
Authors: Diao Wenyu , Cai Hongyue , Wang Lu , Rao Xi , Zhang Yongping
Published: July 2020

Herein, we investigated the photocatalytic degradation of gas‐phase formaldehyde (HCHO) on Pt deposited TiO2 nanowires (Pt/TiO2NW) at continuous flow. Formaldehyde is decomposed into CO2 and H2O in a homemade tube reactor under the LED irradiation. The reactor can monitor online various parameters such as formaldehyde concentration, light intensity, humidity, and temperature. The results indicated that the formaldehyde degradation rate of Pt/TiO2NW increased at continuous flow compared with TiO2 nanowires. Under ultraviolet and visible LED light irradiation, the stable time of degrading low‐concentration formaldehyde by Pt/TiO2NW was 5.6 times that of TiO2NW. Higher ambient humidity facilitates the formaldehyde degradation of Pt/TiO2NW by increasing the hydroxyl radical (.OH) and superoxide radical (.
).
Divergent Pathways and Dynamic Effects of Intramolecular Hydride Transfer Reactions Mediated by Cp*M(III) Complexes (M = Co, Rh, Ir)†
Authors: Zheng Chao
Published: July 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Transition‐metal‐mediated hydride transfer reactions are fundamental steps in olefin polymerization and isomerization processes. β‐Hydride elimination/migratory insertion sequence and ligand‐to‐ligand hydrogen transfer mechanism have been proposed for these reactions. We have performed comprehensive theoretical studies on prototype 1,4‐hydride transfer reactions mediated by the Cp*M(III) complexes (M = Co, Rh, Ir). Depending on the metal center, the reaction courses are quite divergent, ranging from dynamically concerted to explicitly stepwise manner. A More O'Farrell–Jencks‐type plot is suggested to demonstrate the perturbation to the mechanistic continuum from the significant dynamic effects.
Improved Method for Transformation of Vibrio vulnificus by Electroporation
Authors: Jayakumar Jane M. , Shapiro Orr H. , Almagro‐Moreno Salvador
Published: July 2020

Vibrio vulnificus, an emergent human pathogen, causes fulminant septicemia with a mortality rate of over 50%. Unlike for other pathogenic Vibrio species, the factors to conclusively indicate the virulence potential of V. vulnificus strains remain largely unknown. Understanding the pathogenesis of this bacterium at a molecular level is severely hindered by inefficiencies in transformation, for instance, due to the presence of a periplasmic nuclease, Vvn. Currently, successful transformation of V. vulnificus is nearly impossible due to lack of mobilizable plasmids for the bacterium, requiring (i) very high DNA concentrations, (ii) plasmid linearization, (iii) development of novel V. vulnificus‐derived plasmids, or (iv) time‐consuming conjugation‐based methods. To overcome these limitations, we describe a rapid, efficient, and reproducible electroporation protocol to effectively transform widely available plasmids, with different copy numbers and antibiotic resistances, into phylogenetically distant strains of V. vulnificus. Cells are made competent in high concentrations of sucrose devoid of cations and recovered from electroporation using a high‐salinity recovery medium. Compared to existing methods for transformation of V. vulnificus, significantly higher efficiencies are obtained using this improved protocol. Rapid and effective transformations can markedly improve molecular analyses of V. vulnificus leading to a greater understanding of its virulence potential. This is crucial to develop rapid detection methods which have the potential to prevent future outbreaks. The electroporation protocol described here may be particularly useful for optimizing transformation of other nuclease‐producing bacteria. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of competent cells

Basic Protocol 2: Transformation of cells by electroporation
Mechanical properties of human oral mucosa tissues are site dependent: A combined biomechanical, histological and ultrastructural approach
Authors: Choi Joanne Jung Eun , Zwirner Johann , Ramani Rishi Sanjay , Ma Sunyoung , Hussaini Haizal Mohd , Waddell John Neil , Hammer Niels
Published: July 2020

Aim

To investigate load‐deformation properties of Thiel‐embalmed human oral mucosa tissues and to compare three different anatomical regions in terms of mechanical, histological and ultrastructural characteristic with focus on the extracellular matrix.

Materials and Methods

Thirty specimens from three different regions of the oral cavity: attached gingiva, buccal mucosa and the hard palate were harvested from two Thiel‐embalmed cadavers. Mechanical properties were obtained, combining strain evaluation and digital image correlation in a standardised approach. Elastic modulus, tensile strength, strain at maximum load and strain to failure were computed and analysed statistically. Subsamples were also analysed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histological analysis.

Results

The highest elastic modulus of 37.36 ± 17.4 MPa was found in the attached gingiva group, followed by the hard palate and buccal mucosa. The elastic moduli of attached gingiva differed significantly to the buccal mucosa (p = .01) and hard palate (p = .021). However, there was no difference in the elastic moduli between the buccal mucosa and hard palate (p > .22). The tensile strength of the tissue samples ranged from 1.54 ± 0.5MPa to 3.81 ± 0.9 MPa, with a significant difference between gingiva group and buccal mucosa or hard palate (p = .001). No difference was found in the mean tensile strength between the buccal mucosa and hard palate (p = .92). Ultrastructural imaging yielded a morphological basis for the various mechanical properties found intraorally; the attached gingiva showed unidirectional collagen fibre network whereas the buccal mucosa and hard palate showed multi‐directional network, which was more prone to tension failure and less elasticity.

Conclusion

This is the first study assessing the various morphological‐mechanical relationships of intraoral soft tissues, utilising Thiel‐embalmed tissues. The findings of this study suggest that the tissues from different intraoral regions showed various morphological‐mechanical behaviour which was also confirmed under the SEM and in the histological analysis.
Hybrid seagull and thermal exchange optimization algorithm‐based NLOS nodes detection technique for enhancing reliability under data dissemination in VANETs
Authors: Mani Rajendran , Jayaraman Sasikala , Ellappan Mohan
Published: July 2020

The reliability of data dissemination in vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) necessitates maximized cooperation between the vehicular nodes and the least degree of congestion. However, non‐line of sight (NLOS) nodes prevent the establishment and sustenance of connectivity between the vehicular nodes. In this paper, a hybrid seagull and thermal exchange optimization (TEO) algorithm‐based NLOS node detection technique is proposed for enhancing cooperative data dissemination in VANETs. It inherits three different versions of the proposed hybridized algorithm; three different approaches for localization of NLOS nodes depending upon its distance from the reference nodes are incorporated. It is considered as a reliable attempt in effective NLOS node localization as it is predominant in maintaining the balancing the degree of exploration and exploitation in the search process. In the first variant, the method of the roulette wheel is utilized for selecting one among the two optimization algorithm. In the second adoption, this hybridization algorithm combines TEO algorithm only after the iteration of SEOA algorithm. In the final adoption, the predominance of the seagull attack mode is enhanced by including the heat exchange formula of TEO algorithms for improving exploitation capability. The simulation experiments of the proposed HS‐TEO‐NLOS‐ND scheme conducted using EstiNet 8.1 exhibited its reliability in improving the emergency message delivery rate by 14.86%, a neighborhood awareness rate by 13%, and the channel utilization rate by 11.24%, compared to the benchmarked techniques under the evaluation done with different number of vehicular nodes and NLOS nodes in the network.
Kupffer cell activation by different microbial lysates: Toll‐like receptor‐2 plays pivotal role on thromboxane A2 production in mice and humans
Authors: Zhang Jiang , Wieser Andreas , Lin Hao , Li Hanwei , Hu Moyan , Behrens Ina‐Kristin , Schiergens Tobias S. , Gerbes Alexander L. , Steib Christian J.
Published: July 2020

Thromboxane (TX) A2 has been identified as an important intrahepatic vasoconstrictor upon Kupffer cell (KC) activation during infections such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The study aimed to investigate the role of TLRs in the TXA2 increase in liver nonparenchymal cells and their related mechanisms. Here, we identified TLR‐2 as a common pathway for different microbials: microbial lysates including Gram‐positive bacteria, Gram‐negative bacteria, and fungi all increased TXA2 secretion via activation of TLR‐2 in human KCs, accompanied by increased expression and phosphorylation of Myd88‐related pathway. Of all TLR agonists, only TLR‐1, ‐2, and ‐4 agonists increased TXA2 in human KCs. These results were further confirmed by mouse liver nonparenchymal cells. Comparing the effects of TLR‐1, ‐2, and ‐4 antagonists, only TLR‐2 antagonist showed inhibitory effects with all tested microbial lysates. Pretreatment with TLR‐2 antagonist in human KCs blocked the secretion of IL‐10, CXCL‐10, TNF‐α, and IL‐6 induced by Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacterial stimulation. IL‐23 and IL‐1β were only induced by Gram‐negative bacteria. Thus, TLR‐2 might be a potential marker and an attractive target for future treatment of patients with SBP. In addition, IL‐23 and IL‐1β might distinguish early between Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative SBP.
Interleukin‐17 producing mucosal associated invariant T cells ‐ emerging players in chronic inflammatory diseases?
Authors: Pisarska Marta M. , Dunne Margaret R. , O'Shea Donal , Hogan Andrew E.
Published: July 2020

Mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are a population of evolutionarily conserved T cells, which express an invariant T cell receptor (TCR) and represent a significant subset of innate‐like T cells in humans, yet their role in immunity is still emerging. Unlike conventional αβ T cells, MAIT cells are not restricted by MHC molecules, but instead uniquely recognize microbially derived vitamin metabolites presented by the MHC‐I like molecule MR1. MAIT cells are enriched in mucosal sites and tissues including liver and adipose tissue where they are thought to play an important role in immunosurveillance and immunity against microbial infection. In addition to their putative role in antimicrobial immunity, recent research on MAIT cells, in particular IL‐17 producing MAIT cells, has demonstrated their involvement in numerous chronic inflammatory conditions. In this review, we give an overview of the work to date on the function and subsets of MAIT cells. We also examine the role of IL‐17 producing MAIT cells in chronic inflammatory diseases ranging from autoimmune conditions, metabolic diseases to cancer. Furthermore, we discuss the most recent findings from the clinic that might help deepen our understanding about the biology of MAIT cells.
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Methanol on Pt‐Decorated Bi2WO6/Graphene Nanosheets with Visible Light Assistance
Authors: Gao Haifeng , Yuan Chen , He Zhilong , Xu Qiyan , Zhai Chunyang , Zhu Mingshan
Published: July 2020

Noble metal/semiconductor–based electrocatalysts have been proverbially used as the anode material in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) recently. Combined with the advantage of the properties of noble metals and semiconductors, photo‐assisted electrocatalytic methanol oxidation is a valid route to increase the catalytic activity of catalysts in DMFCs. Herein, a 2D composite of bismuth tungstate/reduced graphene oxide (Bi2WO6/RGO) with excellent optical, electrical, and thermal stability is used as the support for the decoration of platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) to synthesize a new electrocatalyst of Pt‐Bi2WO6/RGO. Under ambient conditions, the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) activity of the Pt‐Bi2WO6/RGO electrocatalyst increases relative to the Pt/Bi2WO6 electrode. Note that, under visible light irradiation, it deals with big enhancement of methanol oxidation activity on Pt‐Bi2WO6/RGO electrode, highlighting the effect of RGO used as Bi2WO6 cocatalysis for the MOR activity under illumination. Meanwhile, the corresponding reaction mechanisms with/without visible light are presented, and the roles of Pt‐Bi2WO6/RGO for photo‐assisted electrochemical reactions are proposed.
High‐Speed Coating of Primer Layer for Li‐Ion Battery Electrodes by Using Slot‐Die Coating
Authors: Diehm Ralf , Müller Marcus , Burger David , Kumberg Jana , Spiegel Sandro , Bauer Werner , Scharfer Philip , Schabel Wilhelm
Published: July 2020

A reduction of the inactive components can increase the energy density and reduce production cost of Li‐ion batteries. But an effective reduction of the binder amount also negatively affects the adhesion of the electrode. Herein, slot‐die coating of a primer layer for Li‐ion anodes is investigated. It is shown that the use of a primer layer with only 0.3 g m−2 can increase the adhesive force by the factor of 5 as well as the cell performance for anodes with low binder content. The process limits for a stable, defect‐free primer coating are investigated at coating speeds of up to 550 m min−1. The limits coincide both for a setup without vacuum box and with vacuum box with theory‐based equations. By using a vacuum box, the minimum wet film thickness can be reduced by half.
Toxicity of Nanoparticulate Nickel to Aquatic Organisms: Review and Recommendations for Improvement of Toxicity Tests
Authors: Meyer Joseph S. , Lyons-Darden Tara , Garman Emily R. , Middleton Elizabeth T. , Schlekat Christian E.
Published: July 2020

We reviewed the literature on toxicity of nanoparticulate nickel (nano-Ni) to aquatic organisms, from the perspective of relevance and reliability in a regulatory framework. Our main findings were 1) much of the published nano-Ni toxicity data is of low or medium quality in terms of reporting key physical–chemical properties, methodologies, and results, compared with published dissolved nickel studies; and 2) based on the available information, some common findings about nanoparticle (NP) toxicity are not supported for nano-Ni. First, we concluded that nanoparticulate elemental nickel and nickel oxide, which differ in chemical composition, generally did not differ in their toxicity. Second, there is no evidence that the toxicity of nano-Ni increases as the size of the NPs decreases. Third, for most organisms tested, nano-Ni was not more toxic on a mass-concentration basis than dissolved Ni. Fourth, there is conflicting evidence about whether the toxicity is directly caused by the NPs or by the dissolved fraction released from the NPs. However, no evidence suggests that any of the molecular, physiological, and structural mechanisms of nano-Ni toxicity differ from the general pattern for many metal-based nanomaterials, wherein oxidative stress underlies the observed effects. Physical–chemical factors in the design and conduct of nano-Ni toxicity tests are important, but often they are not adequately reported (e.g., characteristics of dry nano-Ni particles and of wetted particles in exposure waters; exposure-water chemistry). Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1861–1883 © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Application of isolated Lactobacillus sakei and Staphylococcus xylosus strains as a probiotic starter culture during the industrial manufacture of Tunisian dry‐fermented sausages
Authors: Najjari Afef , Boumaiza Mohamed , Jaballah Sana , Boudabous Abdelatif , Ouzari Hadda‐Imene
Published: July 2020

For decades, lactic acid bacteria has been isolated and selected to be used as starter cultures in meat fermentation for standardization and management of quality of dry‐fermented sausage which constitute a considerable challenge. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Lactobacillus sakei strains, isolated from different origins, on qualities of dry‐fermented sausages. These last, manufactured with different combinations of starter cultures (L. sakei + Staphylococcus xylosus), were ripened, using the same raw materials and conditions, for 45 days. Samples were collected during this period, and microbiological, physicochemical, fatty acid profile, and sensorial analyses determined. Lactic acid bacteria were the dominant flora during ripening. A desirable PUFA/SFA ratio, corresponding to 1:1.7 (0.6), was detected after 24 days of maturation in sausages inoculated by L. sakei BMG 95 and S. xylosus. Sensory analysis showed that fermented sausages manufactured with L. sakei and S. xylosus had a more desirable odor, flavor, and texture and consequently were preferred overall. In particular, sensory panellists preferred sausages produced with either L. sakei 23K or L. sakei BMG 95 when compared to fermented sausage produced with a commercial starter or no starter at all.
FABP7 upregulation induces a neurotoxic phenotype in astrocytes
Authors: Killoy Kelby M. , Harlan Benjamin A. , Pehar Mariana , Vargas Marcelo R.
Published: July 2020

Fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) are key regulators of lipid metabolism, energy homeostasis, and inflammation. They participate in fatty acid metabolism by regulating their uptake, transport, and availability of ligands to nuclear receptors. In the adult brain, FABP7 is especially abundant in astrocytes that are rich in cytoplasmic granules originated from damaged mitochondria. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress have been implicated in the neurodegenerative process observed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), either as a primary cause or as a secondary component of the pathogenic process. Here we investigated the expression of FABP7 in animal models of human superoxide dismutase 1 (hSOD1)‐linked ALS. In the spinal cord of symptomatic mutant hSOD1‐expressing mice, FABP7 is upregulated in gray matter astrocytes. Using a coculture model, we examined the effect of increased FABP7 expression in astrocyte‐motor neuron interaction. Our data show that FABP7 overexpression directly promotes an NF‐κB‐driven pro‐inflammatory response in nontransgenic astrocytes that ultimately is detrimental for motor neuron survival. Addition of trophic factors, capable of supporting motor neuron survival in pure cultures, did not prevent motor neuron loss in cocultures with FABP7 overexpressing astrocytes. In addition, astrocyte cultures obtained from symptomatic hSOD1‐expressing mice display upregulated FABP7 expression. Silencing endogenous FABP7 in these cultures decreases the expression of inflammatory markers and their toxicity toward cocultured motor neurons. Our results identify a key role of FABP7 in the regulation of the inflammatory response in astrocytes and identify FABP7 as a potential therapeutic target to prevent astrocyte‐mediated motor neuron toxicity in ALS.
ENIGMA‐anxietyworking group: Rationale for and organization oflarge‐scaleneuroimaging studies of anxiety disorders
Authors: Bas‐Hoogendam Janna Marie , Groenewold Nynke A. , Aghajani Moji , Freitag Gabrielle F. , Harrewijn Anita , Hilbert Kevin , Jahanshad Neda , Thomopoulos Sophia I. , Thompson Paul M. , Veltman Dick J. , Winkler Anderson M. , Lueken Ulrike , Pine Daniel S. , van der Wee Nic J. A. , Stein Dan J. ,   ENIGMA‐Anxiety Working Group
Published: July 2020

Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and disabling but seem particularly tractable to investigation with translational neuroscience methodologies. Neuroimaging has informed our understanding of the neurobiology of anxiety disorders, but research has been limited by small sample sizes and low statistical power, as well as heterogenous imaging methodology. The ENIGMA‐Anxiety Working Group has brought together researchers from around the world, in a harmonized and coordinated effort to address these challenges and generate more robust and reproducible findings. This paper elaborates on the concepts and methods informing the work of the working group to date, and describes the initial approach of the four subgroups studying generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobia. At present, the ENIGMA‐Anxiety database contains information about more than 100 unique samples, from 16 countries and 59 institutes. Future directions include examining additional imaging modalities, integrating imaging and genetic data, and collaborating with other ENIGMA working groups. The ENIGMA consortium creates synergy at the intersection of global mental health and clinical neuroscience, and the ENIGMA‐Anxiety Working Group extends the promise of this approach to neuroimaging research on anxiety disorders.
Designing a multi‐component intervention (P3‐MumBubVax) to promote vaccination in antenatal care in Australia
Authors: Kaufman Jessica , Attwell Katie , Hauck Yvonne , Leask Julie , Omer Saad B. , Regan Annette , Danchin Margie
Published: July 2020

Issue addressed

Coverage of maternal influenza and pertussis vaccines remains suboptimal in Australia, and pockets of low childhood vaccine coverage persist nationwide. Maternal vaccine uptake is estimated to be between 35% and 60% for influenza vaccination and between 65% and 80% for pertussis vaccination. Australian midwives are highly trusted and ideally placed to discuss vaccines with expectant parents, but there are no evidence‐based interventions to optimise these discussions and promote maternal and childhood vaccine acceptance in the Australian public antenatal setting.

Methods

We gathered qualitative data from Australian midwives, reviewed theoretical models, and adapted existing vaccine communication tools to develop the multi‐component P3‐MumBubVax intervention. Through 12 interviews at two Australian hospitals, we explored midwives’ vaccination attitudes and values, perceived role in vaccine advocacy and delivery, and barriers and enablers to intervention implementation. Applying the theory‐based P3 intervention model, we designed intervention components targeting the Practice, Provider and Parent levels. Midwives provided feedback on prototype intervention features through two focus groups.

Results

The P3‐MumBubVax intervention includes practice‐level prompts and identification of a vaccine champion. Provider‐level components are a vaccine communication training module, learning exercise, and website with printable fact sheets. Parent‐level intervention components include text message reminders to receive influenza and pertussis vaccines in pregnancy, as well as online information on vaccine safety, effectiveness and disease severity.

Conclusions

The P3‐MumBubVax intervention is the first Australian antenatal intervention designed to support both maternal and childhood vaccine uptake. A pilot study is underway to inform a planned cluster randomised controlled trial.

So what?

Barriers to vaccine acceptance and uptake are complex. The P3 model is a promising evidence‐informed multi‐component intervention strategy targeting all three levels influencing health care decision‐making.
Normative references and clinical correlates of fetal umbilical artery Doppler indices in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Awowole Ibraheem O. , Kuti Oluwafemi , Asaleye Christianah M. , Badejoko Olusegun O. , Bola‐Oyebamiji Sekinah B. , Olatunji Richard B. , Sowemimo Oluwaseun O. , Ayodele Sidikat A.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To derive normative references for umbilical artery (UA) Doppler indices, including pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and systolic/diastolic (SD) ratio, for singleton pregnancies in Ile‐Ife, Nigeria, and compare them with reference values from other populations.

Methods

A longitudinal study involving 415 women with a singleton fetus at 26–40 gestational weeks attending Obafemi Awolowo University Hospital, Ile‐Ife, between July 2015 and March 2019. Fetal UA PI, RI, and SD ratio were measured every 4 weeks until delivery. Reference values from the 2.5th to the 97.5th centiles were derived from 1375 measurements. Correlations between indices and bio‐demographic characteristics were assessed; regression equations were generated.

Results

The RI, PI, and SD ratio decreased by 0.013, 0.027, and 0.71, respectively, for each additional week of pregnancy. There was a negative correlation between the three indices and birthweight (P<0.001), but not maternal parity, age, or fetal gender. Regression equations for RI, PI, and SD ratio were, respectively, 1.004 – 0.013x, 1.78 – 0.027x, and 4.77 – 0.71x, where x is gestational age (weeks).

Conclusion

The derived normative references for fetal UA Doppler indices are recommended for monitoring high‐risk pregnancies in Nigeria. The indices are comparable to those derived from Norwegian, Thai, and British cohorts.
Temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of irrigation water requirement for main crops in the plain area of Hebei Province*
Authors: Cheng Minghan , Jiao Xiyun , Guo Weihua , Wang Shufang , Pan Yanchuan , Zhang Hang , Sang Honghui
Published: July 2020

The spatial and temporal distribution of agricultural water requirement can provide a scientific basis for regional drought and disaster mitigation management and optimal allocation of irrigation water resources. The irrigation water requirement and irrigation water requirement index of the Hebei Plain during 57 years were calculated by a long series of data of 22 weather stations from 1961 to 2017, and the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics were also analysed. The results show that (a) in this long‐term series, the irrigation water requirement was between 164 and 759 mm, and the irrigation water requirement index was between 0.33 and 0.78, which fluctuated between 1961 and 2017, and in 1977 began to show a downward trend; (b) irrigation water requirement and irrigation water requirement index in the Hebei Plain area had obvious seasonal changes during the year. Irrigation water requirement and irrigation water requirement index were the largest in April, the reasons for this phenomenon being high evapotranspiration and low effective precipitation; (c) the spatial distribution of irrigation water requirement and irrigation water requirement index in the Hebei Plain area are significantly different, both of which are larger in the central region and smaller in the Northeast and Southwest regions.
RNA‐sequencing‐based transcriptome analysis of cantharidin‐induced myocardial injury
Authors: Zhang Youyou , Liu Liang , Ren Liang
Published: July 2020

The cardiotoxicity of cantharidin has been well characterized, but the understanding of the underlying mechanism(s) is incomplete. To more fully understand the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cantharidin‐induced myocardial injury, Sprague‐Dawley rats were exposed to cantharidin (1.34 mg/kg or 2.67 mg/kg) for 24 h and then the heart was sampled for pathologic changes analysis and RNA‐sequencing‐based transcriptomic profiling. In addition, serum troponin T (TN‐T) levels were also tested using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method. The results showed that cantharidin could cause myocardial damage and elevated serum TN‐T levels. The genes with a fold change ≥2 were considered as DEGs and we found 38 DEGs that were mainly enriched in eight pathways revealed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. The cellular component of gene ontology analysis showed that the DEGs were mostly enriched in the extracellular matrix. In conclusion, our present study demonstrated that cantharidin induces myocardial injury by multiple modulatory mechanisms, which provide new insights for further study of the pathophysiologic mechanism of cantharidin‐induced myocardial injury.
Development of NSAID‐loaded nano‐composite scaffolds for skin tissue engineering applications
Authors: Zehra Mubashra , Mehmood Azra , Yar Muhammad , Shahzadi Lubna , Riazuddin Sheikh
Published: July 2020

Scar free healing together with pain management is one of the major considerations in full thickness wound healing. Extensive wounds take longer to heal without any clinical intervention and, hence, need natural or artificial extracellular matrix support for quick skin regeneration. To address these issues, medicated 3D porous biomimetic scaffolds were developed with a unique combination of biopolymers, that is, chitosan, sodium alginate, and elastin, supplemented with a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID). Scaffolds were physically characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), swelling ratio analysis, and degradation studies. Findings of the performed analyses proved that these skin substitutes suitable for skin tissue engineering applications attributable to their nano‐microporous structures (pore size in range of 0.085–256 μm) allowing cell infiltration and high‐water absorption capacity for management of wound exudates. Optimal dose of the loaded ibuprofen was estimated by evaluating effect of variable concentrations of ibuprofen (control, ILM‐10, ILM‐15, and ILM‐20) on adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) proliferation rate. Out of all experimental groups, ILM‐20 constructs were found to accelerate the proliferation rate of seeded ASCs confirming their non‐cytotoxic characteristics as well potential to be used for translational scaffold‐based therapies.
Microstructural evolution and corrosion behavior of a laser surface modified cast Co–Cr–Mo–C alloy
Authors: Erfanian‐Nazif‐Toosi Hamid‐Reza , Rodriguez Mario , López Hugo F.
Published: July 2020

A Co–Cr–Mo–C biomedical alloy was processed by investment casting, and its surface was modified using pulsed laser melting. The modified surface underwent rapid solidification, and the exhibited microstructure as well as its corrosion properties were investigated. It was found that the laser surface modified (LSM) Co–Cr–Mo–C alloy possesses enhanced corrosion resistance when compared with the same alloy in the as‐cast condition. Microstructural determinations indicated that the LSM Co–Cr–Mo–C alloy exhibited a lack significant solute segregation and a predominantly cellular morphology as a result of the development of a cellular solid–liquid front. The cellular morphology was characterized by a fine distribution of nano‐scale M23C6 carbides at the intercellular regions. Moreover, the austenite (γ) to athermal ε‐martensite transformation was totally suppressed in the cellular solidified regions. In contrast, the as‐cast alloy develops a coarse dendritic microstructure with coarse carbides in the interdendritic regions. Solute segregation is also present, as well as athermal ε‐martensite (13 pct). It was found that the corrosion resistance of the LSM alloy in the Ringer solution exhibits improved corrosion potential and a reduced corrosion current density (−281 mV and 0.032 μA/cm2, respectively),when compared with the same alloy in the investment as‐cast condition (−356 mV and 0.150 μA/cm2).
Quantum chemical topology at the spin–orbit configuration interaction level: Application to astatine compounds
Authors: Gomez Pech Cecilia , Haase Pi A. B. , Sergentu Dumitru‐Claudiu , Borschevsky Anastasia , Pilmé Julien , Galland Nicolas , Maurice Rémi
Published: July 2020

We report a methodology that allows the investigation of the consequences of the spin–orbit coupling by means of the QTAIM and ELF topological analyses performed on top of relativistic and multiconfigurational wave functions. In practice, it relies on the “state‐specific” natural orbitals (NOs; expressed in a Cartesian Gaussian‐type orbital basis) and their occupation numbers (ONs) for the quantum state of interest, arising from a spin–orbit configuration interaction calculation. The ground states of astatine diatomic molecules (AtX with X = AtF) and trihalide anions (IAtI−, BrAtBr−, and IAtBr−) are studied, at exact two‐component relativistic coupled cluster geometries, revealing unusual topological properties as well as a significant role of the spin–orbit coupling on these. In essence, the presented methodology can also be applied to the ground and/or excited states of any compound, with controlled validity up to including elements with active 5d, 6p, and/or 5f shells, and potential limitations starting with active 6d, 7p, and/or 6f shells bearing strong spin–orbit couplings.
Associations between practice patterns and dental education in special care dentistry
Authors: Gysling Seana P. , Taiclet Lynne M. , Polk Deborah E.
Published: July 2020

Objective

The goal of this study is to determine whether alumni who completed training in the Center for Patients with Special Needs (CPSN) feel more prepared and treat more patients with special healthcare needs (SHCN) than alumni who completed training prior to the establishment of the Center (pre‐CPSN).

Methods

Alumni graduating in 2000–2017 from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine (Pitt Dental Medicine) completed a survey addressing how well their dental school training prepared them to treat patients with SHCN and their current practice patterns as dental professionals. Alumni completed self‐reported questionnaires online or on paper by mail.

Results

The authors obtained a 16% response rate (N = 209; nPre‐CPSN = 75; nCPSN = 134). Compared with the pre‐CPSN alumni, CPSN alumni reported feeling more prepared in all 12 skills surveyed (t = 4.86, P < 0.05). There was a 0.85‐point difference between groups, on average, across the 12 skills. However, CPSN alumni were no more likely to treat individuals with SHCN than the pre‐CPSN alumni.

Conclusions

Information obtained from this survey supports the hypothesis that experience is associated with perceptions of preparedness and raises new questions about factors associated with deciding whether to treat or refer. This information may inform schools of the amount of training necessary to reach preparedness goals.
Early weaning alters redox status in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of rat pups
Authors: Rodrigues Karoline dos Santos , Klein Caroline Peres , August Pauline Maciel , dos Santos Bernardo Gindri , Hözer Régis Mateus , Maurmann Rafael Moura , Scortegagna Mariana Crestani , Hoppe Juliana Bender , Matté Cristiane
Published: July 2020

Exposure to environmental factors can program the metabolism, conferring resistance or increasing the risk to chronic disease development in childhood and adulthood. In this sense, lactation is an important period in this window of development. Herein, we investigated the effect of early weaning on neurochemical and behavioral changes in offspring at weaning and adulthood. Female and male pups were divided into four groups: (1) Control weaning (weaning on the PND21, pups were kept with the biological mother); (2) Early Weaning Bromocriptine group (EWB) (pharmacological weaning on PND16); (3) Early Weaning Cross‐Fostering group (EWCF) (pups housed with a foster mother on PND16 up to PND21); (4) Early Weaning Without Care group (EWWC) (weaning on PND16, maternal separation). Weight control of pups was recorded from postnatal Day 16 to 59. On the 21st day, part of the pups was euthanized and the hippocampus and hypothalamus were removed for biochemical evaluation. The remaining pups were submitted to behavioral tests on the 60th postnatal day. Early weaning reduced the pups' body weight, in a sex‐dependent way. At 60 days of age, male pups of EWCF and EWWC groups have lower body weight compared to control male, and female body weight was lower than male pups. In relation to biochemical changes in the brain, weaning altered the levels of oxidants, increased the enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), as well as induced lipid peroxidation. Weaning was also able to alter long‐term memory and induce anxious behavior in pups. Our results demonstrate that the different types of early weaning changed the parameters of redox status in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of pups (21 days old), suggesting a prooxidative profile, in addition, to alter learning/memory and inducing an anxious behavior in male offspring (60 days old).
Research literature on women of color in undergraduate engineering education: A systematic thematic synthesis
Authors: Ong Maria , Jaumot‐Pascual Nuria , Ko Lily T.
Published: July 2020

Background

To address social disparities and generate an innovative workforce, engineering higher education should provide learning environments that benefit students from all backgrounds. However, because engineering programs are not enrolling or retaining women of color at demographic parity, a better understanding of these students' experiences is needed to develop effective interventions.

Purpose

This study analyzes research on women of color in undergraduate engineering education to determine what influences their experiences, participation, and advancement. We identify challenges to and strategies for persistence and present recommendations for engineering institutions to create interventions that support women of color and mitigate institutional inequities.

Scope/Method

Using the snowballing method, we identified 65 empirical studies published between 1999 and 2015 that met the criteria for this review. These studies represented qualitative, mixed‐methods, and quantitative methodologies from various fields. We conducted a systematic thematic synthesis, informed by frames of intersectionality, critical race theory, and community cultural wealth.

Conclusions

Women of color use navigational strategies to address the social pain of race and gender inequity in engineering education. Institutions should take responsibility for generating a sense of belonging for women of color and provide social and structural supports that increase self‐efficacy, address social pain, and improve retention.
A mobile health‐facilitated behavioural intervention for community health workers improves exclusive breastfeeding and early infant HIV diagnosis in India: a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Suryavanshi Nishi , Kadam Abhay , Gupte Nikhil , Hegde Asha , Kanade Savita , Sivalenka Srilatha , Kumar V Sampath , Gupta Amita , Bollinger Robert C , Shankar Anita , McKenzie‐White Jane , Mave Vidya
Published: July 2020

Introduction

India’s national AIDS Control Organization implemented World Health Organization’s option B+ HIV prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT) guidelines in 2013. However, scalable strategies to improve uptake of new PMTCT guidelines to reduce new infection rates are needed. This study assessed impact of Mobile Health‐Facilitated Behavioral Intervention on the uptake of PMTCT services.

Methods

A cluster‐randomized trial of a mobile health (mHealth)‐supported behavioural training intervention targeting outreach workers (ORWs) was conducted in four districts of Maharashtra, India. Clusters (one Integrated Counselling and Testing Center (ICTC, n = 119), all affiliated ORWs (n = 116) and their assigned HIV‐positive pregnant/postpartum clients (n = 1191)) were randomized to standard‐of‐care (SOC) ORW training vs. the COMmunity home Based INDia (COMBIND) intervention – specialized behavioural training plus a tablet‐based mHealth application to support ORW‐patient communication and patient engagement in HIV care. Impact on uptake of maternal antiretroviral therapy at delivery, exclusive breastfeeding at six months, infant nevirapine prophylaxis, and early infant diagnosis at six months was assessed using multi‐level random‐effects logistic regression models.

Results

Of 1191 HIV‐positive pregnant/postpartum women, 884 were eligible for primary outcome assessment; 487 were randomized to COMBIND. Multivariable analyses identified no statistically significant differences in any primary outcome by study arm. COMBIND was associated with higher uptake of exclusive breastfeeding at two months (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR), 2.10; 95% CI 1.06 to 4.15) and early infant diagnosis at six weeks (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI 1.05 to 3.98) than SOC.

Conclusions

The COMBIND intervention was easily integrated into India’s existing PMTCT programme and improved early uptake of two PMTCT components that require self‐motivated health‐seeking behaviour, thus providing preliminary evidence to support COMBIND as a potentially scalable PMTCT strategy. Further study would identify modifications needed to optimize other PMTCT outcomes.