bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary intake is compromised among elderly living in agricultural settlements
Authors: Zainudin Norain , Hamirudin Aliza Haslinda , Sidek Suriati , A. Rahman Nor Azlina
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This study aims to investigate dietary intake among elderly living in agricultural settlements in comparison with a recent nutritional recommendation.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study was carried out among elderly living in five agricultural settlements in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia. Participants were interviewed on socio-demographic information such as age, gender, marital status, smoking status, household income, education level and living status. Data on individual dietary intake were obtained through diet history method. Dietary intake data were analyzed using Nutritionist Pro software and compared to the recommended nutrient intakes (RNI) for Malaysia version 2017. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 21.

Findings

A total of 413 participants (male 32.4 per cent and female 67.6 per cent) with the mean age of 69.4 ± 7.9 years participated in this study. Dietary intake results demonstrated that participants did not meet the Malaysian RNI for energy and most nutrients (p < 0.05). This study also found that energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, folate and iron intake were significantly higher in male than female (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, calcium and vitamin A intake were significantly higher in female than male (p < 0.05).

Research limitations/implications

Integrated nutrition education and health promotion programme with a multidisciplinary approach are essential to be designed and executed to improve dietary intake of the elderly, which can further lead to appropriate dietary practices and knowledge improvement related to healthy food choices. Factors associated with inadequate dietary intake and awareness on the importance of adequate nutrients intake among the elderly warrant further investigation.

Originality/value

This research is at the forefront, which indicated that the dietary intake of elderly individuals living in the agricultural settlement was inadequate in comparison to the latest recommendation. Strategies to improve their intakes need to be developed and implemented accordingly to improve nutritional status and prevent adverse effects to health.
A review on antennas for biomedical implants used for IoT based health care
Authors: Patil Kasturi Sudam , Rufus Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The paper aims to focus on implantable antenna sensors used for biomedical applications. Communication in implantable medical devices (IMDs) is beneficial for continuous monitoring of health. The ability to communicate with exterior equipment is an important aspect of IMD. Thus, the design of an implantable antenna for integration into IMD is important.

Design/methodology/approach

In this review, recent developments in IMDs, three types of antenna sensors, which are recommended by researchers for biomedical implants are considered. In this review, design requirements, different types of their antenna, parameters and characteristics in medical implants communication system (MICS) and industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) bands are summarized here. Also, overall current progress in development of implantable antenna sensor, its challenges and the importance of human body characteristics are described.

Findings

This article give information about the requirements of implantable antenna sensor designs, types of antennas useful to design implantable devices and their characteristics in MICS and ISM bands. Recent advancement in implantable devices has led to an improvement in human health.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information on implantable antennas design for biomedical application. The designing of such antennas needs to meet requirements such as compact size, patients’ safety, communication ability and biocompatibility.
Remote sensing image super-resolution using deep–shallow cascaded convolutional neural networks
Authors: He Haiqing , Chen Ting , Chen Minqiang , Li Dajun , Cheng Penggen
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present a novel approach of image super-resolution based on deep–shallow cascaded convolutional neural networks for reconstructing a clear and high-resolution (HR) remote sensing image from a low-resolution (LR) input.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed approach directly learns the residuals and mapping between simulated LR and their corresponding HR remote sensing images based on deep and shallow end-to-end convolutional networks instead of assuming any specific restored models. Extra max-pooling and up-sampling are used to achieve a multiscale space by concatenating low- and high-level feature maps, and an HR image is generated by combining LR input and the residual image. This model ensures a strong response to spatially local input patterns by using a large filter and cascaded small filters. The authors adopt a strategy based on epochs to update the learning rate for boosting convergence speed.

Findings

The proposed deep network is trained to reconstruct high-quality images for low-quality inputs through a simulated dataset, which is generated with Set5, Set14, Berkeley Segmentation Data set and remote sensing images. Experimental results demonstrate that this model considerably enhances remote sensing images in terms of spatial detail and spectral fidelity and outperforms state-of-the-art SR methods in terms of peak signal-to-noise ratio, structural similarity and visual assessment.

Originality/value

The proposed method can reconstruct an HR remote sensing image from an LR input and significantly improve the quality of remote sensing images in terms of spatial detail and fidelity.
Agricultural Commercialisation and Nutrition in Smallholder Farm Households
Authors: Ogutu Sylvester Ochieng , Gödecke Theda , Qaim Matin
Published: August 2019

Commercialisation of smallholder agriculture is important for rural economic growth. While previous studies have analysed effects of commercialisation on productivity and income, implications for farm household nutrition have received much less attention. We evaluate the effects of commercialisation on household food security and dietary quality with a special focus on calorie and micronutrient consumption. We also examine transmission channels by looking at the role of income, gender, and possible substitution effects between the consumption of own‐produced and purchased foods. The analysis uses survey data from farm households in Kenya and a control function approach. Generalised propensity scores are employed to estimate continuous treatment effects. Commercialisation significantly improves food security and dietary quality in terms of calorie, zinc and iron consumption. For vitamin A, effects are insignificant. Commercialisation contributes to higher incomes and increased nutrients from purchased foods, but it does not reduce the consumption of nutrients from own‐produced foods. Enhancing market access is important not only for rural economic growth, but also for making smallholder agriculture more nutrition‐sensitive.
Two Kaempferol Glycosides Separated from Camellia Oleifera Meal by High‐Speed Countercurrent Chromatography and Their Possible Application for Antioxidation
Authors: Zheng Liufeng , Chen Li , Li Jing , Liang Li , Fan Yawei , Qiu Leyun , Deng Zeyuan
Published: August 2019

Recently, kaempferol and its glycosides have attracted considerable attention owing to their potentially health‐benefitting properties including protection against chronic diseases. Here, a microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) method was developed for the extraction of total flavonoid glycosides (FG) from Camellia oleifera meal, a major agrifood waste largely generated as a byproduct from the Camellia oil processing industry. Compared with traditional extraction methods, MAE enables more efficient extraction of FG. High‐speed countercurrent chromatography was then applied to separate FG from MAE extract, and two major compounds were successfully separated with purities above 90.0% as determined by HPLC. These two compounds were further identified by UV, FT‐IR, ESI‐MS, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR as kaempferol 3‐O‐[α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]‐7‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside and kaempferol 3‐O‐[β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl]‐7‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranoside, which were for the first time separated from C. oleifera meal. The results of antioxidant activity assay demonstrated that both compounds had excellent scavenging activity for DPPH radical, and exhibited protective effects against H2O2‐induced oxidative damage of vascular endothelial cells. The findings of this work suggest the possibility of employing C. oleifera meal as an attractive source of health‐promoting compounds, and at the same time facilitate its high‐value reuse and reduction of environmental burden.
Association between clinicopathologic characteristics and BRAFV600E expression in Chinese patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Huang Hui , Lu Tao , Sun Yuxin , Li Shan , Li Ji , Xu Kai , Feng Rui e , Xu Zuo jun
Published: August 2019

Background

The identification of V‐raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF)V600E mutations has been recommended in patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) with difficult diagnosis and failure of first‐line treatment. The reported frequencies of BRAFV600E mutations vary in Chinese patients with LCH.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of LCH patients with a definitive pathological diagnosis who were hospitalized between 2013 and 2017. The BRAFV600E mutations were detected with the human BRAFV600E amplification refractory mutation system‐PCR (ARMS‐PCR) kit from the collected tissue samples.

Results

This study consisted of 46 male (68.7%) and 21 female (31.3%) patients, with a mean age of 29.1 years (range, 2–76 years). Most were adults (45/67.2%) with the multisysytem‐LCH (MS‐LCH) disease subtype (49/61.3%). The overall frequency of BRAFV600E mutations was 22.4% (15 of 67 patients), confirmed by PCR analysis. These mutations were not closely correlated with age (nonadults vs. adults = 5/22.7% vs. 10/22.2%, P = 0.54), gender (female vs. male = 9/19.6% vs. 6/28.6%, P = 0.61), LCH classification type (single system: MS‐risk organ+: MS‐risk organ− = 3/16.7%: 12:28.6%: 0, P = 0.19) or prognosis (cured: improved/stable: exacerbated: died = 4/44.4%: 19.2%: 20%: 0, P = 0.37). There were 33 patients (49.2%) with lung involvement, and 12 patients (36.3%) underwent lung biopsies; after screening, four patients were diagnosed with solitary pulmonary LCH, all of whom were negative for BRAFV600E mutations.

Conclusion

The BRAFV600E mutation rate in patients with LCH was lower than those reported in other studies. In addition, BRAFV600E mutations might not be correlated with age, gender, LCH classification type or prognosis for Chinese cases.
Synthetic cannabinoids and their impact on neurodevelopmental processes
Authors: Alexandre João , Carmo Helena , Carvalho Félix , Silva João Pedro
Published: August 2019

Cannabinoids comprise a broad group of psychoactive substances that activate endogenous cannabinoid (EC) receptors (ie, CB1R and CB2R), altering neurotransmitter release in the brain. The importance of their regulatory role in different biological processes has prompted the development of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), substantially more potent than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the main psychoactive substance of cannabis). Although SCs were primarily designed given their therapeutic applications, their recreational use has become a major public health concern due to several reports of severe intoxications and deaths. SCs have favored increased popularity over recent years due to their intensified psychoactive effects, compared with THC, turning regular cannabis users into SCs. Among cannabinoid users (mainly young people), pregnant women and women of child‐bearing potential (WoCBP) comprise particular risk groups, due to the potential onset of neurodevelopment disorders in the offspring (eg, schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders). Understanding the role played by cannabinoids, and the potential action of emerging SCs in the regulation of the neuronal function, especially during neuronal development, thus assumes critical relevance. Here, we review the mechanistic regulation of neuronal processes, namely during neuronal development, by the endocannabinoid system. Most important, we further develop on the potential of SCs to modulate such mechanisms and subsequently disrupt proper neurodevelopment.
Evaluation ofin vitro Streptococcus mutansandActinomyces naeslundiiattachment and growth on restorative materials surfaces
Authors: Wei CX , Leung WK , Burrow MF
Published: August 2019

Background

Restorative materials have varying surface characteristics from natural tooth, which may affect oral‐bacterial surface attachment/growth. This study examined 48‐hStreptococcus mutans(Sm) orActinomyces naeslundii(An) growth on various restorative materials and tooth surfaces.

Methods

The quantity and viability of 48‐hour‐oldSmandAngrowth on polished (180‐ or 1200‐grits), saliva‐coated resin composite (RC), glass ionomer cements (GIC), resin‐modified GIC (R‐GIC), GIC containing casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (3% (w/w), CPP‐ACP GIC), amalgam or tooth blocks (5 × 5 × 1 mm3) were examined.

Results

Rough‐polished (arithmetical mean deviation of the assessed surface roughness profile (Ra): 1.50–1.75 µm) material surfaces revealed relatively higher proportion of inorganic, positively charged surface components ((Si + Al)/C) and greater quantity of surface attached bacteria than smooth polished (Ra: 0.20–0.35 µm) material groups (P < 0.001). LessSmandAnwere observed on tooth, and smooth polished GIC and CPP‐ACP GIC surfaces than on resin‐based materials (RC, R‐GIC) and amalgam (P ≤ 0.003). Viability ofSmwas found to be lower on amalgam surfaces (P < 0.001), whereas that ofAnappeared lower on both amalgam surfaces and rough CPP‐ACP GIC surfaces (P ≤ 0.033).

Conclusion

Surface roughness exerted a pronounced effect onin vitrogrowth/attachedSm/Anquantity but may not have an impact on bacteria viability. Interestingly, despite smoother surfaces of various materials tested, fewerSm/Anwere observed attaching on tooth surfaces.
Extended hypoxia‐mediated H2S production provides for long‐term oxygen sensing
Authors: Olson Kenneth R. , Gao Yan , DeLeon Eric R. , Markel Troy A. , Drucker Natalie , Boone David , Whiteman Matt , Steiger Andrea K. , Pluth Michael D. , Tessier Charles R. , Stahelin Robert V.
Published: August 2019

Aim

Numerous studies have shown that H2S serves as an acute oxygen sensor in a variety of cells. We hypothesize that H2S also serves in extended oxygen sensing.

Methods

Here, we compare the effects of extended exposure (24‐48 hours) to varying O2 tensions on H2S and polysulphide metabolism in human embryonic kidney (HEK 293), human adenocarcinomic alveolar basal epithelial (A549), human colon cancer (HTC116), bovine pulmonary artery smooth muscle, human umbilical‐derived mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells and porcine tracheal epithelium (PTE) using sulphur‐specific fluorophores and fluorometry or confocal microscopy.

Results

All cells continuously produced H2S in 21% O2 and H2S production was increased at lower O2 tensions. Decreasing O2 from 21% to 10%, 5% and 1% O2 progressively increased H2S production in HEK293 cells and this was partially inhibited by a combination of inhibitors of H2S biosynthesis, aminooxyacetate, propargyl glycine and compound 3. Mitochondria appeared to be the source of much of this increase in HEK 293 cells. H2S production in all other cells and PTE increased when O2 was lowered from 21% to 5% except for HTC116 cells where 1% O2 was necessary to increase H2S, presumably reflecting the hypoxic environment in vivo. Polysulphides (H2Sn, where n = 2‐7), the key signalling metabolite of H2S also appeared to increase in many cells although this was often masked by high endogenous polysulphide concentrations.

Conclusion

These results show that cellular H2S is increased during extended hypoxia and they suggest this is a continuously active O2‐sensing mechanism in a variety of cells.
Member and dentist narratives about a dental programme for the Medicaid expansion population: A content analysis
Authors: Reynolds Julie C. , Sukalski Jennifer M. C. , McKernan Susan C. , Damiano Peter C.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

In the United States, the 2010 Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion improved financial access to dental care for new Medicaid enrollees in states with Medicaid dental benefits for adults. Using an existing theoretical framework, we explored dentist and Medicaid member narratives concerning a state's redesigned dental programme for the Medicaid expansion population.

Methods

Data sources include two surveys conducted in 2016—one to a random sample of Medicaid members and one to private practice dentists in Iowa. A qualitative content analysis approach was used to quantify and describe themes present in open‐ended comment data.

Results

The most common themes among Medicaid member narratives were related to oral health needs and status, availability of dentists who accept Medicaid, and Medicaid coverage for dental care. Among dentists, the programme's administrative burden was the most common theme, with coverage and reimbursement commonly cited as well. An emergent theme among both member and dentist comments was patient confusion or lack of knowledge about programme enrolment and coverage.

Conclusions

Member awareness about enrolment and coverage in public dental benefit plans should be further explored to determine the impact on access to care. Effectively communicating the intent, programme design and expectations of a Medicaid programme to both providers and Medicaid members is important to the success of the programme.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in European grasslands under nutrient pollution
Authors: Ceulemans Tobias , Van Geel Maarten , Jacquemyn Hans , Boeraeve Margaux , Plue Jan , Saar Liina , Kasari Liis , Peeters Gerrit , van Acker Kasper , Crauwels Sam , Lievens Bart , Honnay Olivier
Published: August 2019

Aim

Our aim was to quantify the extent to which nutrient pollution explains arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community richness and composition.

Location

Europe.

Time period

2014–2016.

Major taxa studied

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.

Methods

We sampled soils of calcareous and acidic grasslands and roots of 34 host plant species across a large geographical gradient of atmospheric nitrogen deposition and soil phosphorus availability. Furthermore, we performed an independent pairwise comparison between fertilized and unfertilized grasslands in Belgium and Iceland to compare results.

Results

We found that nitrogen deposition had a significant negative relationship to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal richness, with a negative community threshold of 7.7 kg N/ha/year corresponding to the greatest reduction in operational taxonomic units. Additionally, we found that soil phosphorus had a significant negative relationship to mycorrhizal fungal richness.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight the necessity to revisit the critical loads of atmospheric nitrogen deposition used in European environmental policy, currently set at 10–15 kg N/ha/year. Importantly, our observed threshold of 7.7 kg N/ha/year does not correspond to a critical load below which there is no environmental harm, because the least negative changes in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities were observed at < 5 kg N/ha/year. Therefore, to avoid compromising the policy tenet of no environmental harm with respect to grassland mycorrhizal fungi, areas of zero tolerance to nitrogen pollution should be delimited. Our results also indicate that environmental policy biased towards reducing nitrogen pollution alone will fail to preserve mycorrhizal biodiversity in European grasslands. We advocate increased policy attention to avoid phosphorus enrichment, particularly through agricultural fertilization. Here too, areas of zero phosphorus input, ideally set in the currently unpolluted (or least polluted) areas, seem key for effective environmental policy, because elevated levels of soil phosphorus after phosphorus fertilization are known to be extremely persistent.
Plag1 regulates neuronal gene expression and neuronal differentiation of neocortical neural progenitor cells
Authors: Sakai Hiroshi , Fujii Yuki , Kuwayama Naohiro , Kawaji Keita , Gotoh Yukiko , Kishi Yusuke
Published: August 2019

Neural progenitor cells (NPCs, also known as radial glial progenitors) produce neurons and then glial cells such as astrocytes during development of the mouse neocortex. Given that this sequential generation of neural cells is critical for proper brain formation, the neurogenic potential of NPCs must be precisely controlled. Here, we show that the transcription factor Plag1 plays an important role in the regulation of neurogenic potential in mouse neocortical NPCs. We found that Hmga2, a key neurogenic factor in neocortical NPCs, induces expression of the Plag1 gene. Analysis of the effects of over‐expression or knockdown of Plag1 indicated that Plag1 promotes the production of neurons at the expense of astrocyte production in embryonic neocortical cultures. Furthermore, over‐expression of Plag1 promoted and knockdown of Plag1 suppressed neuronal differentiation of neocortical NPCs in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis showed that Plag1 increases the expression of a set of neuronal genes in NPCs. Our results thus identify Plag1 as a regulator of neuronal gene expression and neuronal differentiation in NPCs of the developing mouse neocortex.
Are American homeowners more satisfied with their lives than renters?
Authors: Kuroki Masanori
Published: August 2019

Researchers often find that homeownership is not associated with life satisfaction in the United States. Using the 2009–2010 Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey, this study examines whether homeowners are more satisfied with their lives than renters in the following eight states: Alabama, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina and Wisconsin. A positive relationship between homeownership and life satisfaction (approximately 0.06 points on a 4‐point scale;p < .01) is found, even when whether respondents are worried about having enough money to pay their rent or mortgage is controlled for. However, the positive effect of homeownership declines as the local house prices increase, indicating that homeowners in expensive areas tend to be less satisfied with their lives than homeowners in more affordable areas.
Negative permittivity in titanium nitride‐alumina composite for functionalized structural ceramics
Authors: Fan Guohua , Zhao Yupeng , Xin Jiahao , Zhang Zidong , Xie Peitao , Cheng Chuanbing , Qu Yunpeng , Liu Yao , Sun Kai , Fan Runhua
Published: August 2019

The study on novel physical properties of structural ceramics or ceramic composites could make them more conducive to be function‐ and structure‐integrated materials. Herein, titanium nitride‐alumina (TiN–Al2O3) duplex ceramics were prepared and the dielectric spectra of the ceramics were studied from 10 MHz to 1 GHz. Negative permittivity appeared when TiN content exceeded 40 wt% due to the induced plasmonic state of massive delocalized electrons in connected TiN grain networks. Meanwhile, alternating current conduction behaviors of the duplex ceramics were discussed with percolation theory. Furthermore, the analysis of reactance by equivalent circuit models indicated that negative permittivity ceramics exhibited inductive character. This work realized negative dielectric behaviors in TiN–Al2O3duplex ceramics and would promote the study of electromagnetic functionalization in wave shielding or attenuation for structural ceramics.
Systematic review of sedentary behaviour in people with Down syndrome across the lifespan: A clarion call
Authors: Agiovlasitis Stamatis , Choi Poram , Allred Anthony T. , Xu Jian , Motl Robert W.
Published: August 2019

Background

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) experience health disparities possibly associated with high levels of sedentary behaviour (SB). We systematically reviewed SB measurement, levels, patterns, correlates, consequences and interventions in people with DS across the lifespan.

Method

We searched these databases: Embase; PubMed; Web of Science; Scopus; CINAHL; PsycINFO; SPORTDiscus; and Cochrane Library. We included quantitative studies published in English since 1 January 1990.

Results

We identified 17 eligible articles. Across studies, accelerometer‐determined sedentary time was 552 min/day (median: 542; range 392–680 min/day). Sedentary time appeared higher than previously reported values in the general population, especially for youth with DS. Multivariate SB correlates were primarily familial and environmental. Sedentary behaviour consequences have not been exclusively studied. Motor skills training reduced SB in youth with DS.

Conclusions

Sedentary behaviour research in this population is in early stages. Individuals with DS have high levels of SB that may be responsive to interventions.
Long non‐coding RNA SNHG16 regulates human aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via sponging miR‐205 and modulating Smad2
Authors: Lin Yongqing , Tian Guoping , Zhang Haifeng , Yuan Woliang , Xie Yong , Yang Ying , Wang Jingfeng , Liang Ying
Published: August 2019

The present study investigated the role of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) in the human aortic smooth muscle cell (HASMC) proliferation and migration and explored the potential link between SNHG16 and atherosclerosis. Our results showed that platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐bb treatment promoted cell proliferation and migration with concurrent up‐regulation of SNHG16 in HASMCs. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 overexpression promoted HASMC proliferation and migration, while SNHG16 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and migration in PDGF‐bb‐stimulated HASMCs. The bioinformatic analyses showed that SNHG16 possessed the complementary binding sequence with miR‐205, where the interaction was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull‐down assay in HASMCs, and SNHG16 inversely regulated miR‐205 expression. MiR‐205 overexpression attenuated the enhanced effects of PDGF‐bb treatment on HASMC proliferation and migration. Moreover, Smad2 was targeted and inversely regulated by miR‐205, while being positively regulated by SNHG16 in HASMCs. Smad2 knockdown attenuated PDGF‐bb‐mediated actions on HASMC proliferation and migration. Both miR‐205 overexpression and Smad2 knockdown partially reversed the effects of SNHG16 overexpression on HASMC proliferation and migration. Moreover, SNHG16 and Smad2 mRNA were up‐regulated, while miR‐205 was down‐regulated in the plasma from patients with atherosclerosis. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 expression was inversely correlated with miR‐205 expression and positively correlated with Smad2 expression in the plasma from atherosclerotic patients. In conclusion, our data showed the up‐regulation of SNHG16 in pathogenic‐stimulated HASMCs and clinical samples from atherosclerotic patients. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 regulated HASMC proliferation and migration possibly via regulating Smad2 expression by acting as a competing endogenous RNA for miR‐205.
A mapping study and recommendations for a joint NGO (Think Pink) and Bahrain Government Breast Cancer project
Authors: Sprakel Julie , Carrara Helio , Manzer Bruce M. , Fedorowicz Zbys
Published: August 2019

Aims

Breast cancer within the region continues to present challenges to the healthcare services. Strategies to shed light on clinical gaps could better support country‐specific circumstances. The aims of the mapping study were to identify the gaps in the evidence base, for the management of breast cancer with relevance to Bahrain and the Gulf Region. In parallel, focusing on areas and directions of research, which are compatible with international and local clinical interests. It was envisaged that the mapping project would expose not only opportunities to improve support to the community but also illustrate the possible engagement of a government entity and a Nongovernment Organization in a private‐public partnership.

Method

An extensive literature review of local and international publications from the period between 1979 and 2015 was undertaken. Searches were conducted using free‐text terms, singularly or combined, with no limiters, to provide unrestricted retrieval of available English studies.

Results

A total of 326 citations were identified, which after deduplication provided 277 unique citations of which included 236 studies within 13 different categories, relevant to breast cancer within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Conclusion

Contextualizing gaps in literature and, therefore, providing evidence‐based decisions, not only support the enduser, but better support the country‐specific challenges and burdens to healthcare. Three broad but key areas were identified after mapping of the literature, covering:screening and mammography, knowledge translation and dissemination, and lymphoedema postsurgical resection. Similar mapping projects could be undertaken by other national NGO's to better support the government and solidify the framework for a public‐private partnership.
Management of hepatic hydrothorax and effect on length of stay, mortality, cost, and 30‐day hospital readmission
Authors: Sobotka Lindsay A , Spitzer Carleen , Hinton Alice , Michaels Anthony , Hanje A James , Mumtaz Khalid , Conteh Lanla F
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

Cirrhosis‐related complications are associated with high inpatient mortality, cost, and length of stay. There is a lack of multi‐centered studies on interventions for hepatic hydrothorax and its impact on patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of performing thoracentesis for hepatic hydrothorax on hospital length of stay, mortality, cost, and 30‐day readmission.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample between 2002 and 2013 and Nationwide Readmission Database during 2013 was performed including patients with a primary diagnosis of hydrothorax or pleural effusion and a secondary diagnosis of cirrhosis based on International Classification of Disease 9 codes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the effect of thoracentesis on patient outcomes during their hospital stay.

Results

Of the 37 443 patients included from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, 26 889 (72%) patients underwent thoracentesis. Thoracentesis was associated with a longer length of stay (4.56 days, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.40–6.72) and higher total cost ($9449, 95% CI: 3706–15 191). There was no significant difference in inpatient mortality between patients who underwent thoracentesis compared with those who did not. Of the 2371 patients included from the Nationwide Readmission Database, 870 (33%) were readmitted within 30 days. Thoracentesis was not a predictor of readmission; however, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (odds ratio: 4.89, 95% CI: 1.17–20.39) and length of stay (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.001–1.05) on index admission were predictors of readmission.

Conclusion

When considering treatment for hepatic hydrothorax, many factors should contribute to determining the best intervention. While performing thoracentesis may provide immediate relief to symptomatic patients, it should not be considered a long‐term intervention given that it increases hospital cost, was associated with longer length of stays, and did not improve mortality.
MATCHING SUBSIDIES AND VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS: A REVIEW
Authors: Epperson Raphael , Reif Christiane
Published: August 2019

This paper provides a synthesis of the experimental literature on matching subsidies in the context of charitable giving. We classify results according to four different outcome variables frequently considered in the literature and address (i) short‐term effects of linear matching, (ii) the role of the matching rate, (iii) context‐dependence of behavioural responses, (iv) the relevance of the price of giving, (v) long‐term effects and (vi) nonlinear matching schemes. Based on this comprehensive review, we highlight several avenues for future research, such as putting stronger emphasis on competition in fundraising, long‐term effects or heterogeneity in responses.
Administration of ginger and/or thyme has ameliorative effects on liver and kidney functions of V‐line rabbits: Histological and biochemical studies
Authors: Abdel‐Gabbar Mohammed , Ahmed Rasha R. , Kandeil Mohamed A. , Mohamed Alaa El‐deen H. , Ali Shimaa M.
Published: August 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Zingiber officinale and Thymus vulgaris aqueous extracts as a natural antioxidant on liver and kidney functions and antioxidant status of growing rabbits. A total of 24 V‐line male rabbits, 3 months old, 1.465 ± 0.12 kg average body weight (BW) were used in a complete randomized design. The rabbits were weighed individually and assigned randomly to four groups (6 animals/each). The first group (G1) was taken fresh water and served as control, rabbits of the second group (G2) were taken 100 mg/kg BW in drinking water of the Z. officinale aqueous extract daily. The third group (G3) was taken 50 mg/kg BW in drinking water of the T. vulgaris aqueous extract daily and the fourth group (G4) was taken 100 mg/kg BW of the Z. officinale aqueous extract plus 50 mg/kg BW of the T. vulgaris aqueous extract in drinking water daily. The oral administration of ginger and/or thyme aqueous extracts increased (p < .001) serum protein profile compared with control group. Moreover, results of group 2 showed significant (p < .001) decrease in cholesterol, triglyceride and very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol compared with group 3 and 4. Serum urea, uric acid and creatinine levels were significantly (p < .001) decreased in treated groups compared with control group. Oral administration of ginger and/or thyme aqueous extracts to growing rabbits increased (p < .001) total antioxidant capacity and glutathione content and the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione‐S‐transferase compared with the control group. In conclusion, the current study showed that oral administration of ginger and thyme aqueous extracts to growing rabbits showed no adverse effects on liver and kidney function parameters, histological structures and improved antioxidant status.
Effects of sodium selenite addition on ruminal fermentation, microflora and urinary excretion of purine derivatives in Holstein dairy bulls
Authors: Liu YongJia , Wang Cong , Liu Qiang , Guo Gang , Huo WenJie , Zhang YanLi , Pei CaiXia , Zhang ShuanLin , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2019

Researches on sodium selenite (SS) mainly focus on production performance and rumen fermentation in ruminants, and the influence of dietary Se addition on ruminal microbial population and enzyme activity in dairy bulls is scarce. This study mainly evaluated the effects of SS on ruminal fermentation, microflora and urinary excretion of purine derivatives (PD) in dairy bulls. Eight ruminally cannulated dairy bulls were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were control, low SS (LSS), medium SS (MSS) and high SS (HSS) with 0, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 mg/kg of selenium (Se) from SS in dietary dry matter (DM), respectively. The supplement of SS (1.0 g/kg of Se) was mixed into the first third of the daily ration. Bulls were fed a total mixed ration with corn silage to concentrate ratio of 50:50 on a DM basis. Dry matter intake was not affected, average daily gain linearly increased, while feed conversion ratio quadratically decreased with increasing Se addition. The linearly increased digestibility of DM, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre was observed. Both ruminal pH and ammonia‐N concentration linearly decreased, whereas total volatile fatty acid concentration linearly increased. A lower acetate to propionate ratio was observed due to the unchanged acetate proportion and increased propionate proportion. Activity of cellobiase, xylanase, pectinase, α‐amylase and protease, populations of total bacteria, fungi, protozoa, Ruminococcus (R.) albus, R. flavefaciens, Fibrobacter succinogenes, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens and Ruminobacter amylophilus as well as urinary total PD excretion linearly increased, whereas populations of total methanogens and Prevotella ruminicola linearly decreased. The data indicated that dietary Se addition stimulated ruminal microbial growth and enzyme activity, and resulting in the increased nutrient digestion and growth performance, and the optimum supplementary dose of Se was 0.3 mg/kg dietary DM from SS in dairy bulls.
Automated methods for the investigation of language contact, with a focus on lexical borrowing
Authors: List Johann‐Mattis
Published: August 2019

While language contact has so far been predominantly studied on the basis of detailed case studies, the emergence of methods for phylogenetic reconstruction and automated word comparison—as a result of the recent quantitative turn in historical linguistics—has also resulted in new proposals to study language contact situations by means of automated approaches. This study provides a concise introduction to the most important approaches, which have been proposed in the past, presenting methods that use (A) phylogenetic networks to detect reticulation events during language history, (B) sequence comparison methods in order to identify borrowings in multilingual datasets, and (C) arguments for the borrowability of shared traits to decide if traits have been borrowed or inherited. While the overview focuses on approaches dealing with lexical borrowing, questions of general contact inference will also be discussed where applicable.
Adult tinea capitis and tinea barbae in a tertiary Portuguese hospital: A 11‐year audit
Authors: Duarte Bruno , Galhardas Célia , Cabete Joana
Published: August 2019

Adult tinea capitis and tinea barbae are nowadays considered uncommon in developed countries. Despite their potential for morbidity and healthcare costs, few series have attempted to characterise these infectious disorders. We conducted a cross‐sectional study to analyse the epidemiological, clinical and mycological characteristics of adult tinea capitis and tinea barbae of a large tertiary centre in Southern Europe. All adult patients with a mycological‐confirmed tinea capitis or barbae over a 11‐year period (January 2008 to December 2018) were considered for the analysis. Concerning tinea capitis, 860 culture‐confirmed diagnoses were made during this 11‐year period, of which only 15 (1.5%) occurred in adults (15 patients). A disproportionately high number of patients were female and immunocompromised. Microsporum audouinii (20%) and Trichophyton rubrum (20%) were the most common isolates. Half of the cases were initially misdiagnosed. Regarding tinea barbae, 7 cases were diagnosed over this time period. Overuse of topical steroids was widespread in this population. Trichophyton rubrum was the infectious agent in all cases. Initial misdiagnosis was very common (43%). Adult tinea capitis and tinea barbae can still be observed in contemporary practice and remain a public health concern, with the immunosuppressed patient being particularly affected. Initial misdiagnosis is a common occurrence. Anthropophilic fungi are now the most common aetiologic agents of these infections, and they will probably continue to do so as the large urban centres expand peripherally. Awareness for this diagnosis is necessary to prevent unwarranted morbidity and costs.
Mitochondrial Ca2+‐activated F1FO‐ATPase hydrolyzes ATP and promotes the permeability transition pore
Authors: Algieri Cristina , Trombetti Fabiana , Pagliarani Alessandra , Ventrella Vittoria , Bernardini Chiara , Fabbri Micaela , Forni Monica , Nesci Salvatore
Published: August 2019

The properties of the mitochondrial F1FO‐ATPase catalytic site, which can bind Mg2+, Mn2+, or Ca2+ and hydrolyze ATP, were explored by inhibition kinetic analyses to cast light on the Ca2+‐activated F1FO‐ATPase connection with the permeability transition pore (PTP) that initiates cascade events leading to cell death. While the natural cofactor Mg2+ activates the F1FO‐ATPase in competition with Mn2+, Ca2+ is a noncompetitive inhibitor in the presence of Mg2+. Selective F1 inhibitors (Is‐F1), namely NBD‐Cl, piceatannol, resveratrol, and quercetin, exerted different mechanisms (mixed and uncompetitive inhibition) on either Ca2+‐ or Mg2+‐activated F1FO‐ATPase, consistent with the conclusion that the catalytic mechanism changes when Mg2+ is replaced by Ca2+. In a partially purified F1 domain preparation, Ca2+‐activated F1‐ATPase maintained Is‐F1 sensitivity, and enzyme inhibition was accompanied by the maintenance of the mitochondrial calcium retention capacity and membrane potential. The data strengthen the structural relationship between Ca2+‐activated F1FO‐ATPase and the PTP, and, in turn, on consequences, such as physiopathological cellular changes.
Wait times, health care touchpoints, and nonattendance in an academic pediatric dermatology clinic
Authors: Stephens Michael R. , Murthy Aditi S. , McMahon Patrick J.
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives

Timely access to pediatric dermatology care remains a challenge. While awaiting appointments, many patients and families utilize so‐called health care touchpoints outside of the dermatology clinic such as primary care or emergency department visits to address dermatologic concerns. Long waiting periods also factor into nonattendance rates at pediatric dermatology appointments. This observational retrospective study investigated wait times, relevant health care touchpoints, and factors related to nonattendance at a pediatric dermatology clinic.

Methods

We reviewed demographic, health care touchpoint, and nonattendance data for patients referred by a primary care affiliate to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) pediatric dermatology clinic from February 2016 to May 2017. Descriptive statistics were used to identify trends among analyzed variables.

Results

We reviewed 250 patient records. The average number of touchpoints per patient was 0.56, and factors that significantly correlated with increased numbers of touchpoints included younger patient age and longer wait time while payer, primary diagnosis, and time of year were not associated. The nonattendance rate was 26%, and factors significantly associated with increased nonattendance rate included longer wait times and winter and spring appointments.

Conclusion

Long wait times impact numbers of touchpoints and appointment attendance rate when referring to pediatric dermatology. A platform such as teledermatology may represent an opportunity to improve access to care by allowing for earlier input from the pediatric dermatologist.
Predictors and Limitations of the Penetration Depth of Photodynamic Effects in the Rodent Brain
Authors: Inglut Collin T. , Gaitan Brandon , Najafali Daniel , Lopez Irati Abad , Connolly Nina P. , Orsila Seppo , Perttilä Robert , Woodworth Graeme F. , Chen Yu , Huang Huang‐Chiao
Published: August 2019

Fluorescence‐guided surgery (FGS) is routinely utilized in clinical centers around the world, whereas the combination of FGS and photodynamic therapy (PDT) has yet to reach clinical implementation and remains an active area of translational investigations. Two significant challenges to the clinical translation of PDT for brain cancer are as follows: (1) Limited light penetration depth in brain tissues and (2) Poor selectivity and delivery of the appropriate photosensitizers. To address these shortcomings, we developed nanoliposomal protoporphyrin IX (Nal‐PpIX) and nanoliposomal benzoporphyrin derivative (Nal‐BPD) and then evaluated their photodynamic effects as a function of depth in tissue and light fluence using rat brains. Although red light penetration depth (defined as the depth at which the incident optical energy drops to 1/e, ~37%) is typically a few millimeters in tissues, we demonstrated that the remaining optical energy could induce PDT effects up to 2 cm within brain tissues. Photobleaching and singlet oxygen yield studies between Nal‐BPD and Nal‐PpIX suggest that deep‐tissue PDT (>1 cm) is more effective when using Nal‐BPD. These findings indicate that Nal‐BPD‐PDT is more likely to generate cytotoxic effects deep within the brain and allow for the treatment of brain invading tumor cells centimeters away from the main, resectable tumor mass.
Restoring marine environmental damage: Can the Costa Rica v Nicaragua compensation case influence the BBNJ negotiations?
Authors: Long Ronán
Published: August 2019

The negotiations of a new international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions are at a crucial stage. This article reviews the first adjudication by the International Court of Justice of a compensation claim for environmental damage (Costa Rica v Nicaragua) to see if the case can influence the negotiation of provisions in the new instrument on liability and compensation, as well as on the obligation to restore damaged biodiversity and degraded ecosystems. By doing so, the instrument will close long‐standing lacunae in the law of the sea and thereby engender greater marine environmental accountability.
Recognizing Structural Nonidentifiability: When Experiments Do Not Provide Information About Important Parameters and Misleading Models Can Still Have Great Fit
Authors: Schmidt Philip J. , Emelko Monica B. , Thompson Mary E.
Published: August 2019

In the quest to model various phenomena, the foundational importance of parameter identifiability to sound statistical modeling may be less well appreciated than goodness of fit. Identifiability concerns the quality of objective information in data to facilitate estimation of a parameter, while nonidentifiability means there are parameters in a model about which the data provide little or no information. In purely empirical models where parsimonious good fit is the chief concern, nonidentifiability (or parameter redundancy) implies overparameterization of the model. In contrast, nonidentifiability implies underinformativeness of available data in mechanistically derived models where parameters are interpreted as having strong practical meaning. This study explores illustrative examples of structural nonidentifiability and its implications using mechanistically derived models (for repeated presence/absence analyses and dose–response of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and norovirus) drawn from quantitative microbial risk assessment. Following algebraic proof of nonidentifiability in these examples, profile likelihood analysis and Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo with uniform priors are illustrated as tools to help detect model parameters that are not strongly identifiable. It is shown that identifiability should be considered during experimental design and ethics approval to ensure generated data can yield strong objective information about all mechanistic parameters of interest. When Bayesian methods are applied to a nonidentifiable model, the subjective prior effectively fabricates information about any parameters about which the data carry no objective information. Finally, structural nonidentifiability can lead to spurious models that fit data well but can yield severely flawed inferences and predictions when they are interpreted or used inappropriately.