bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoglobulin G4 related disease: a single‐centre experience from South Australia
Authors: Pucar Phillippa A. , Nolan James , Hissaria Pravin
Published: May 2019

Background

IgG4 related disease (IgG4RD) is a newly described multisystem fibro‐inflammatory disorder. There is a paucity of literature describing the Australian experience of this rare condition.

Aims

To characterise the Royal Adelaide Hospital IgG4RD cohort with biopsy‐proven disease.

Methods

A search of the Frome Road SA Pathology database was performed for all tissue biopsies containing the phrase ‘IgG4 positive’. Case notes were reviewed for clinical details, laboratory and radiology results. Histological features according to the Boston Criteria were used. Patients with available case notes, highly suggestive or probable histology and clinical features to suggest IgG4RD were included.

Results

Twenty patients had definite or probable IgG4RD and suggestive clinical features; median age 59 (20–76), male : female 1.5:1. There was considerable delay in diagnosis (median diagnosis at 64 months). Organ involvement included: 11 exocrine gland, seven pancreatobiliary, seven nodal, seven soft tissue, five retro‐orbital, three retroperitoneal fibrosis and two renal. Systemic symptoms at diagnosis were seen in eight patients. Seven (35%) had an elevated serum IgG4 (>1.35 g/L) at diagnosis. Only 12 (60%) required immunosuppressive treatment (corticosteroids); of these, four (20%) required a steroid‐sparing agent and four (20%) required B‐cell depleting therapy (rituximab). The median duration of follow up was 18 months.

Conclusions

This is the first characterised Australian cohort with generalised IgG4RD, a rare, relatively indolent and under‐recognised multisystem disorder. Diagnosis is difficult given lack of awareness of this rare condition among physicians, its presentation as a great disease mimic, challenges with histopathological assessment and the absence of a suitable serum biomarker.
The Effects of Calibration Target, Screen Location, and Movement Type on Infant Eye‐Tracking Data Quality
Authors: Schlegelmilch Karola , Wertz Annie E.
Published: May 2019

During infant eye‐tracking, fussiness caused by the repetition of calibration stimuli and body movements during testing are frequent constraints on measurement quality. Here, we systematically investigated these constraints with infants and adults using EyeLink 1000 Plus. We compared looking time and dispersion of gaze points elicited by stimuli resembling commonly used calibration animations. The adult group additionally performed body movements during gaze recording that were equivalent to movements infants spontaneously produce during testing. In our results, infants’ preference for a particular calibration target did not predict data quality elicited by that stimulus, but targets exhibiting the strongest contrasts in their center or targets with globally distributed complexity resulted in the highest accuracy. Our gaze measures from the adult movement tasks were differentially affected by the type of movement as well as the location where the target appeared on the screen. These heterogeneous effects of movement on measures should be taken into account when planning infant eye‐tracking experiments. Additionally, to improve data quality, infants’ tolerance for repeated calibrations can be facilitated by alternating between precise calibration targets.
Recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment and management of tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in elephants in human care
Authors: Backues K. A. , Wiedner E. B.
Published: May 2019

African elephants Loxodonta africana and Asian elephants Elephas maximus are both susceptible to infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The Asian elephant has lived in close association with humans in Asian range countries for thousands of years and this close partnership is likely responsible for the exposure of the Asian elephant to this human disease. The confirmation by modern veterinary medicine of the existence of Mtb infection in elephants has only occurred recently after a testing programme was initiated in 1996 in elephant‐holding facilities in the United States. At the time of writing, Mtb is recognized as a disease primarily of Asian elephants in zoos. However, recent identification of tuberculosis in several free‐ranging elephants, both Asian and African, indicates that the disease may be emerging in the threatened wild populations of these species, which may further hinder the survival of wild elephants in some free‐ranging populations. Ante‐mortem diagnosis of the disease in elephants is improving but remains challenging. Protecting both human and elephant health via prevention of Mtb exposure must be part of a preventative‐medicine strategy wherever humans and elephants closely interact. Treatment of Mtb‐infected elephants has been accomplished by many facilities with some promising results. However, many challenges remain, including the side effects of drug therapies and poor compliance to medication administration by the elephant. Inconsistent treatment may potentially result in the bacterium developing resistance to the antibiotics. A brief overview of the diagnosis, treatment and management of Mtb in elephants in human care is provided.
Does higher‐than‐usual stress predict nonsuicidal self‐injury? Evidence from two prospective studies in adolescent and emerging adult females
Authors: Miller Adam Bryant , Eisenlohr‐Moul Tory , Glenn Catherine R. , Turner Brianna J. , Chapman Alexander L. , Nock Matthew K. , Prinstein Mitchell J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) is highly prevalent among adolescent and emerging adult females. Most studies examining the relationship between stress and NSSI largely have relied on aggregate self‐report measures of stress and between‐person models. Using data from two prospective samples, this manuscript tests the hypothesis that within‐person models of NSSI provide better clinical markers of risk for NSSI than between‐person models of NSSI.

Methods

Two samples (Sample 1: 220 high‐risk girls, M age = 14.68, SD = 1.36, baseline assessment and 3‐month follow‐ups for 18 months; Sample 2: 40 emerging adult females with a history of NSSI, M age = 21.55, SD = 2.14, 14 days with daily retrospective reports) were followed prospectively and completed validated measures of stress and NSSI. Models were adjusted for age and depression.

Results

In Sample 1, a within‐person model demonstrated that higher‐than‐usual (but not average) stress levels predicted NSSI within the same 3‐month wave. In Sample 2, results from a within‐person model with daily diary assessment data showed that higher‐than‐usual stress (but not average daily stress) predicted same‐day NSSI.

Conclusions

Together, our results suggest that higher‐than‐usual stress, relative to one's typical stress level, but not average stress levels, signals times of enhanced risk for NSSI. These results highlight the clinical utility of repeated assessments of stress.
Nickel dermatitis from earrings 15 years after EU directive implementation: a clinical‐epidemiological study and a market survey in Rome, Italy
Authors: Cristaudo A. , Petrucci F. , Giannarelli D. , Cercato M.C. , Orsini D. , Morrone A. , Bocca B.
Published: May 2019

Background

Nickel (Ni) dermatitis remains a highly prevalent allergic condition in Italy. There is a continuous need for clinical and epidemiological surveillance to evaluate whether or not European Ni Directive has been effective in contact allergy prevention.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of Ni dermatitis among patch‐tested patients and self‐interviewed school students and to analyse Ni release from earlobe jewellery.

Methods

Results of patch tests performed in 2006–2007, 2015–2016 and 2017–2018 were retrieved. A questionnaire was compiled by 315 secondary school students. Ni release from earring parts was analysed with the EN1811:2015 method.

Results

A significant time trend of decreasing Ni positivity from 2006–2007 to 2017–2018 was observed both in the overall population (44.1% in 2006–2007, 33.0% in 2015–2016, 31.6% in 2017–2018, P < 0.0001) and in female patients (P < 0.0001). Conversely, change was not significant in males (P = 0.16). Decrease was significant for all age groups, except for those aged >60 years (P = 0.51). Among 242 students who reported earring use, 130 (54%) reported symptoms at earlobes, mostly associated with jewellery of materials other than gold and silver (59% of those with earlobe symptoms). Ni release exceeded the migration limit in 4/21 (20%) earring parts.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of Ni dermatitis and earlobe symptoms were found in Rome. A decreasing time trend was noted, with a significant decline in Ni sensitivity compared to the situation observed right after Ni Directive implementation. This most likely represents the consequence of reduced Ni content in earring parts, although a major care in the use of Ni‐containing objects could contribute to explain these findings.
The association between the socioeconomic status and anxiety–depression comorbidity in patients with psoriasis: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Tzur Bitan D. , Krieger I. , Comaneshter D. , Cohen A.D. , Feingold D.
Published: May 2019

Background

Numerous studies have indicated that comorbid anxiety and depression are associated with a more severe course of illness. Yet generally, the study of the effect of psoriasis on patients’ mental health has considered anxiety and depression to be separate states.

Objective

To measure the association between psoriasis and anxiety, depression and anxiety–depression co‐occurrence among patients according to their socioeconomic statuses (SES).

Methods

A nationwide population‐based study of psoriasis patients and age and gender frequency‐matched controls (n = 255 862) was designed. Diagnostic data were obtained from Clalit Health Services, the largest managed care organization in Israel. This database was established using continuous real‐time input from healthcare providers, pharmacies, medical care facilities and administrative computerized operating systems.

Results

After controlling for demographic and clinical variables, psoriasis was associated with anxiety (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.23, P < 0.05), depression (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.08–1.26, P < 0.001), and anxiety and depression co‐occurrence (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.21–1.45, P < 0.001) among patients with low SES, yet was associated only with anxiety (OR 1.15 95% CI 1.04–1.27, P < 0.001) but not depression or comorbid anxiety–depression among patients with high SES. Survival analyses indicated that between the ages of 40 and 60, the cumulative probability of psoriasis patients with low SES to suffer from anxiety, depression and their co‐occurrence inclined more sharply with age as compared to psoriasis patients with high SES.

Conclusions

As psoriasis patients with low SES are prone to suffer from more severe courses of anxiety and depression, the choice of treatment of psoriasis should address the SES as well as the underlying psychiatric disease.
Reproductive characteristics and reproductive tract anatomy of the California butterfly ray Gymnura marmorata (Myliobatiformes: Gymnuridae)
Authors: Burgos‐Vázquez Maria I. , Galván‐Magaña Felipe , Carrera‐Fernández Maribel , Ochoa‐Báez Rosa I. , Oddone Maria C.
Published: May 2019

The California butterfly ray Gymnura marmorata is frequently caught by artisanal fisheries in north‐western Mexico (Baja California Sur; BCS). The aim of this study was to estimate reproductive characteristics and describe the micro and macroscopic reproductive structures of female and male G. marmorata. Sampling was carried out at two fisheries landing sites located on the west coast BCS, from 2008 to 2012. The largest disc width (WD) ever recorded for this species was 131.0 cm and females were larger than males. The male sample was composed exclusively of adult specimens, with a median size at 50% maturity (WD50) estimated at 44.9 cm WD. For females, size at onset of maturity was estimated at 63.0 cm WD; WD50, at 64.7 cm WD; and size at pregnancy at 80.1 cm WD. Gonadal asymmetry was observed for the first time in this species. Indeed, in males only the left testis was functional (testicular asymmetry), while in females, only the left ovary was functional (ovarian asymmetry).
Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants: An Underestimated Workforce for Older Adults with Cancer
Authors: Coombs Lorinda A. , Max Wendy , Kolevska Tatjana , Tonner Chris , Stephens Caroline
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

To describe the composition of the US provider workforce for adults with cancer older than 65 years and to determine whether there were differences in patients who received care from different providers (eg, nurse practitioners [NPs], physician assistants [PAs], and specialty physicians).

DESIGN

Observational, cross‐sectional study.

SETTING

Adults within the 2013 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registries linked to the Medicare claims database.

PARTICIPANTS

Medicare beneficiaries who received ambulatory care for any solid or hematologic malignancies.

MEASUREMENTS

International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9), diagnosis codes were used to identify Medicare patient claims for malignancies in older adults. Providers for those ambulatory claims were identified using taxonomy codes associated with their National Provider Identifier number.

RESULTS

A total of 2.5 million malignancy claims were identified for 201, 237 patients, with 15, 227 providers linked to claims. NPs comprised the largest group (31.5%; n = 4,806), followed by hematology/oncology physicians (27.7%; n = 4,222), PAs (24.7%; n = 3767), medical oncologists (10.9%; n = 661), gynecological oncologists (2.6%; n = 403), and hematologists (2.4%; n = 368). Rural cancer patients were more likely to receive care from NPs (odds ratio [OR] = 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.65‐2.05) or PAs (OR = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.40‐1.77) than from physicians. Patients in the South were more likely to receive care from NPs (OR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.24‐1.49).

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of older adults with cancer receive care from NPs and PAs, particularly those who reside in rural settings and in the southern United States. Workforce strategies need to integrate these provider groups to effectively respond to the rising need for cancer care within the older adult population.
An integrative view of mammalian seasonal neuroendocrinology
Authors: Dardente Hugues , Wood Shona , Ebling Francis , Sáenz de Miera Cristina
Published: May 2019

Seasonal neuroendocrine cycles that govern annual changes in reproductive activity, energy metabolism and hair growth are almost ubiquitous in mammals that have evolved at temperate and polar latitudes. Changes in nocturnal melatonin secretion regulating gene expression in the pars tuberalis (PT) of the pituitary stalk are a critical common feature in seasonal mammals. The PT sends signal(s) to the pars distalis of the pituitary to regulate prolactin secretion and thus the annual moult cycle. The PT also signals in a retrograde manner via thyroid‐stimulating hormone to tanycytes, which line the ventral wall of the third ventricle in the hypothalamus. Tanycytes show seasonal plasticity in gene expression and play a pivotal role in regulating local thyroid hormone (TH) availability. Within the mediobasal hypothalamus, the cellular and molecular targets of TH remain elusive. However, two populations of hypothalamic neurones, which produce the RF‐amide neuropeptides kisspeptin and RFRP3 (RF‐amide related peptide 3), are plausible relays between TH and the gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone‐pituitary‐gonadal axis. By contrast, the ways by which TH also impinges on hypothalamic systems regulating energy intake and expenditure remain unknown. Here, we review the neuroendocrine underpinnings of seasonality and identify several areas that warrant further research.
Skin‐lightening practices behind the veil: An epidemiological study among Saudi women
Authors: Alrayyes Sarah Fahad , Alrayyes Saad Fahad , Farooq Dar Umar
Published: May 2019

Background

Women are adopting skin‐lightening practices worldwide in an attempt to enhance their skin tone. The reasons and beliefs behind such practices vary from culture to culture. Scarce data are available for this phenomenon among Saudi women. We carried out this study to determine the practices, reasons, and correlates of skin‐lightening practices among women in the northern region of Saudi Arabia.

Method

Using nonprobability convenient sampling, an analytical cross‐sectional study was carried out among women attending two multispecialty hospitals in the Al‐Jouf region. A prevalidated, self‐administered questionnaire containing 35 items about demographic characteristics, skin‐lightening practices, knowledge of skin‐lightening products (SLPs), reasons, and perceptions about lighter skin tone was used to collect data.

Results

Among 605 sampled women, usage of skin‐lightening practices was found in 382 participants (63.1%). All participants had relatively lighter skin. Skin type and education affected skin‐lightening practices significantly (P values = 0.002 and 0.012, respectively). The prevalent reason for using SLPs was cosmetic (66%). One‐third of users faced side effects from these products. The SLP users believed that lighter skin tone plays a role in self‐esteem, perception of beauty, social class, marriage, and employment opportunities (P values < 0.01) as compared to nonusers. Media was found to influence the use of SLPs (P values < 0.001).

Conclusion

Skin‐lightening practices are prevalent among Saudi women. Such practices are reinforced by a belief that fairer skin is associated with beauty, self‐esteem, and financial and social advantages. A public health educational campaign is needed to decrease the usage of SLPs.
FromSissytoSickening:The Indexical Landscape of /s/ in SoMa, San Francisco
Authors: Calder Jeremy
Published: May 2019

This paper explores the relation between the linguistic and the visual in indexing social meaning and performing gender, focusing on fronted /s/ among a community of drag queens in SoMa, San Francisco. I argue that as orders of indexicality (Silverstein 2003) are established, linguistic features like fronted /s/ become linked with visual bodies. These body‐language links can impose top‐down restrictions on the uptake of gender performances. Non‐normatively gendered individuals like the SoMa queens embody cross‐modal figures of personhood (see Agha 2003, 2004) like thefierce queenthat forge higher indexical orders and widen the range of performative agency.
Effects of pH and the plasma or serum concentrations of total calcium, chloride, magnesium,l‐lactate, and albumin on the plasma ionized calcium concentration in calves
Authors: Constable Peter , Trefz Florian M. , Stämpfli Henry
Published: May 2019

Background

The plasma ionized calcium concentration (cCa2+) represents the biologically active form of calcium and is the preferred method for evaluating calcium status in animals. Different pH‐corrective equations have been developed for human plasma, but the validity of the equations for bovine plasma is unknown.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that pH‐corrective equations for bovine plasma would be similar to those used for human plasma;cCa2+was dependent on the plasma concentrations of total calcium (cTCa), chloride (cCl), L‐lactate (cLactate), and albumin (cAlbumin); and the in vitro and in vivocCa2+‐pH relationships would differ.

Animals

Ten healthy calves (in vitro study), 1426 critically ill calves.

Methods

The in vitro plasma log10(cCa2+)‐pH relationship was determined by CO2tonometry of 465 plasma samples. PlasmacCl was altered by equivolume dilution of plasma with 3 electrolyte solutions of differentcCl. The in vivo plasmacCa2+‐pH relationship was investigated and validated using clinicopathologic data extracted from the medical records of 950 (model development) and 476 (model validation) critically ill calves.

Results

pH‐corrective equations for bovine plasma were similar to those used for human plasma. PlasmacCa2+increased in vitro with increases in plasmacCl. PlasmacCa2+in critically ill calves was associated with plasmacTCa, blood pH, plasmacCl, serumcMg, andcL‐lactate (R2 = 0.69) but not plasmacAlbumin.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Calculation ofcCa2+fromcTCa in calf plasma or serum requires adjustment for at least pH andcCl when 1 or both are outside the reference range.
Pharyngeal trauma in dairy cattle: 27 cases
Authors: Gomez Diego E. , Desrochers André , Francoz David , Nichols Sylvain , Babkine Marie , Fecteau Gilles
Published: May 2019

Background

Characterization of the clinical signs, response to treatment and prognosis can be useful information for decision‐making when evaluating cattle with pharyngeal trauma.

Objective

To describe the signalment, history, clinicopathologic, endoscopic, ultrasonographic, radiographic, and postmortem findings as well as treatments and outcomes of cattle diagnosed with pharyngeal perforation/trauma.

Animals

Review of medical records of cattle >1 month of age admitted to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 1995 to 2017.

Methods

Retrospective study. Review of medical records of cattle with pharyngeal perforation/trauma identified by oral or endoscopic examination in hospital setting.

Results

Twenty‐seven out of 7550 (0.36%) cases met the inclusion criteria. Pharyngeal perforation/trauma was associated with the administration of a bolus in 24 (89%) cows and a magnet in 3 (11%) cases. The boluses contained monensin (n = 12), calcium salts (n = 5), iodine (n = 1), aspirin (n = 1), vitamins (n = 1), and an unknown product (n = 4). The primary clinical signs were dysphagia, swelling of the throatlatch, subcutaneous emphysema, swelling, and pain on palpation of the throatlatch. Seventeen (63%) cows were discharged whereas 10 (37%) were euthanized. Median time between the suspected traumatic event and hospital admission was 1 day (range: 0.5‐3 days) and 2 days (range: 0.5‐15) for surviving and nonsurviving cattle, respectively. All 5 cows that suffered pharyngeal trauma associated with administration of calcium salt bolus were euthanized.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Pharyngeal trauma is a rare condition in cattle. Case fatality rate increases if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The nature of the penetrating foreign body influences the outcome.
Causes and consequences of reciprocal translocations on sex chromosomes
Authors: Scott Michael F.
Published: May 2019

Under XY sex determination, the Y chromosome is only inherited via males, whereas the X chromosome is predominantly found in females. Thus, it is favourable when alleles with high male fitness become associated with the Y chromosome and when alleles with high female fitness become associated with the X chromosome. These favourable associations can be strengthened through linkage. Rearrangements, such as inversions and sex chromosome–autosome fusions, can increase linkage and thereby become favoured (Charlesworth, 2017). In a From the Cover article in this issue of Molecular Ecology, Toups, Rodrigues, Perrin, and Kirkpatrick (2019) present the first genomic analysis of a sex chromosome reciprocal translocation, a particularly dramatic chromosomal rearrangement that modifies linkage with the sex chromosome. As a result of reciprocal translocation, one studied population of the common frog (Rana temporaria, Figure 1) displays a remarkable sex‐determining system in which there are two physically unlinked sex chromosomes that are exclusively cotransmitted (Figure 2a).
krn1, a major quantitative trait locus for kernel row number in maize
Authors: Wang Jian , Lin Zhelong , Zhang Xuan , Liu Hangqin , Zhou Leina , Zhong Shuyang , Li Yan , Zhu Can , Lin Zhongwei
Published: May 2019

Kernel row number is a fundamental component of maize (Zea mays) yield and an important target for maize breeding. The revolutionary transition from the two‐rowed teosinte to maize with increased kernel row numbers dramatically enhanced yields during domestication. Kernel row number is controlled by many quantitative trait loci (QTLs), however most genes responsible for these QTLs remain uncharacterised and the molecular genetic mechanisms are unknown.

Here, we combined map‐based cloning and association mapping to identify a major QTL for kernel row number, krn1, which is likely to correspond to an existing gene (ids1/Ts6) encoding an AP2 domain protein homologous to the product of the wheat key domestication gene Q.

The increased expression of ids1/Ts6 in two maize mutants increased spikelet pair meristem numbers and then enhanced kernel row numbers. Nucleotide diversity analysis further revealed that ids1/Ts6 and Q were under strong parallel selection in maize and wheat that increased their yields during domestication or improvement.

RNA‐seq revealed that ids1/Ts6 is involved in multiple pathways regulating spikelet pair meristem development, involving several key genes such as fea3, fea4 and ra3. The cloning of the krn1 gene will pave a new way to efficiently improve maize yield in the near future.
StomataCounter: a neural network for automatic stomata identification and counting
Authors: Fetter Karl C. , Eberhardt Sven , Barclay Rich S. , Wing Scott , Keller Stephen R.
Published: May 2019

Stomata regulate important physiological processes in plants and are often phenotyped by researchers in diverse fields of plant biology. Currently, there are no user‐friendly, fully automated methods to perform the task of identifying and counting stomata, and stomata density is generally estimated by manually counting stomata.

We introduce StomataCounter, an automated stomata counting system using a deep convolutional neural network to identify stomata in a variety of different microscopic images. We use a human‐in‐the‐loop approach to train and refine a neural network on a taxonomically diverse collection of microscopic images.

Our network achieves 98.1% identification accuracy onGinkgoscanning electron microscropy micrographs, and 94.2% transfer accuracy when tested on untrained species.

To facilitate adoption of the method, we provide the method in a publicly available website athttp://www.stomata.science/.
Histone modifications in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders
Authors: Yang Huamei , Jin Xin , Dan Hongxia , Chen Qianming
Published: May 2019

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignancy with dismal prognosis without effective therapeutic options in advanced cases. The evolution from oral potentially malignant disorders to OSCC has poorly described underlying epigenetic features. With the ability of silencing or activation of vital genes, histone modifications’ and modifiers’ potentiality for early diagnosis, prognosis predicting, and therapy in OSCC were evaluated by extensive epigenetic studies. This review investigates the roles of dysregulated histone modifications and the associated modifying enzymes in OSCC onset and progression. Also, we focus on the current advances of histone modifications as therapeutic targets and the potential value of epi‐drugs.
Characterization of a stress tolerance‐defective mutant of Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRB
Authors: Biswas Saswati , Keightley Andrew , Biswas Indranil
Published: May 2019

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a lactic acid bacterium that survives diverse ecological niches, including the human oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. L. rhamnosus is an acidogenic bacterium that produces copious amounts of lactic acid. The organism is also considered as aciduric, since it can survive prolonged exposure to an acidic environment. For a probiotic bacterium such as L. rhamnosus, it is necessary to understand how this organism survives acid stress. In this study we used L. rhamnosus LRB to isolate one spontaneous mutant that was sensitive to acid stress. The mutant, which we named RBM1, also displayed sensitivity to a wide range of stresses including osmotic, thermal, and others. Using whole genome sequencing, we mapped the putative mutations in the mutant strain. It appears that three single nucleotide substitutions occurred in the mutant as compared to the wild‐type LRB strain. Among those, the most relevant mutation occurred in the ftsH gene that created a single amino acid change in the protein. We performed a comparative proteomic study to understand the molecular basis for stress sensitivity and found that ~15% of the proteome is altered in the mutant strain. Our study suggests that generation of spontaneous mutants during L. rhamnosus colonization could drastically affect bacterial physiology and survival under stress conditions.
Implementing European case law at the bureaucratic frontline: How domestic signalling influences the outcomes of EU law
Authors: Martinsen Dorte Sindbjerg , Blauberger Michael , Heindlmaier Anita , Thierry Jessica Sampson
Published: May 2019

This article analyses the implementation of European case law at the bureaucratic frontline of European member states. Theoretically, insights from street‐level implementation studies are combined with judicial impact research. Empirically, we compare how EU rules on free movement and cross‐border welfare are applied in practice in Denmark, Austria and France. We find that when applying EU rules in practice, street‐level bureaucrats are confronted with a world of legal complexity, consisting of ambiguous rules, underspecified concepts and a recent judicial turn by the Court of Justice of the European Union. In order to manage complexity, street‐level bureaucrats turn to their more immediate superiors for guidance. As a consequence, domestic signals shape the practical application of EU law. Despite bureaucratic discretion and many country differences, domestic signals create uniform, restrictive outcomes of EU law in all three cases. Thus we show that there is considerable room for politics in EU implementation processes.
Mutation in EMB1923 gene promoter is associated with chlorophyll deficiency in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Li Xiang , Huang Shengnan , Liu Zhiyong , Hou Li , Feng Hui
Published: May 2019

Leaf color mutants are widespread in higher plants and can be used as markers in crop breeding or as important material in understanding the regulatory mechanisms of chlorophyll biosynthesis and chloroplast development. A stably inherited plant etiolated mutation (pem) was obtained from its wild‐type ‘FT’ (a doubled haploid line of the Chinese cabbage variety ‘Fukuda 50’) by combining 60Co‐γ radiation and isolated microspore culture in Chinese cabbage. Compared to the wild‐type ‘FT’, the chlorophyll content in the pem mutant was decreased, the photosynthetic capacity was reduced and the chloroplast development was retarded. These physiological changes may lead to a reduction in growth and yield in the pem mutant line. Genetic analysis showed that the mutant phenotype was controlled by the single recessive nuclear pem gene. The pem gene was mapped to a 25.88 kb region on the A03 chromosome. Cloning and sequencing results showed that there was only one DNA sequence variation in this region, which was a 30 bp deletion on the promoter of Bra024218. Its homologous gene encodes EMBRYO DEFECTIVE 1923 (EMB1923) in Arabidopsis thaliana. We therefore predicted that Bra024218 was the mutated gene associated with etiolated leaves in Chinese cabbage. The pem mutant is a useful line for researching chloroplast development and the mechanism of leaf color mutation in Chinese cabbage.
Depression, negative relating with the oldest child, and the mediating role of resilience in community elders’ psychological well‐being: a pilot study in Greece
Authors: Kalaitzaki Argyroula E. , Pattakou‐Parasiri Vassiliki , Foukaki Eirini‐Michaela
Published: May 2019

Aim

This study examined the role of both positive and negative aspects of social relationships with partners, friends, and children on the psychological well‐being of Greek elders, as well as the potential mediating role of resilience.

Methods

The sample included 100 Greek older community‐dwellings recruited from three care centres. They completed questionnaires consisted of the Scales of Psychological Well‐Being, the shortened Family Members’ Interrelating Questionnaire, the Significant Others Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory, and the Brief Resilience Scale.

Results

The findings suggested that mental health (i.e. depression), rather than physical frailty, and a negative relationship with the oldest child, rather than a lack of social support from family or friends in general, have detrimental effects in elders’ well‐being. In contrast, resilience has a positive effect on well‐being that mediates the association between negative relating with the oldest child and well‐being. Elderly parents perceived their child's relating more negatively than their own relating towards the child, and it was the child's negative relating to them, rather than their relating toward the child, that predicted their psychological well‐being. An interdisciplinary approach to the care of the geriatric population is highlighted.

Conclusions

To improve elders’ well‐being and enhance successful ageing, the determinants of well‐being should be key targets of ageing research. Policy, prevention, and intervention actions should address the modifiable variables of any underlying emotional and social issues among elderly people (i.e. depression, negative relating with children, and resilience).
Activities of daily living are associated with outcomes of epilepsy treatment in elderly patients
Authors: Fujimoto Ayataka , Okanishi Tohru , Sato Keishiro , Masuda Yosuke , Nishimura Mitsuyo , Homma Yoichiro , Enoki Hideo
Published: May 2019

Aim

Controlling epileptic seizures in elderly populations is widely considered to be relatively easy, but we hypothesized that the lifestyles of elderly individuals may affect the outcomes of epilepsy treatment. The purpose of this study was to review the activities of daily living (ADL) of elderly individuals with epilepsy and compare them with the outcomes of epilepsy treatment.

Methods

Of the 177 patients ≥65 years old who were referred to our epilepsy centre, epilepsy was diagnosed in 84. ADL and treatment outcomes were then reviewed, with ADL classified into three levels: ADL I, without disability; ADL II, disabled only in some instrumental ADL; and ADL III, disabled in some basic ADL. Epilepsy syndromes and use of anti‐seizure drugs were also evaluated.

Results

Forty‐five patients (53.6%) achieved freedom from seizures, 23 (27.4%) achieved ≥80% but <100% reduction in seizures, 5 (6%) achieved ≥50% but <80% reduction in seizures, and 11 (13.1%) achieved <50% reduction in seizures. Thirty‐five patients (81.4%) with ADL I achieved freedom from seizures, compared with seven patients with ADL II (28.0%) and three patients with ADL III (19.0%). A significant difference was evident among the three groups (F = 6.145, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

ADL should be taken into account when an epilepsy treatment is being selected.
State Space Models for Non-Stationary Intermittently Coupled Systems: An Application to the North Atlantic Oscillation
Authors: Sansom Philip G. , Williamson Daniel B. , Stephenson David B.
Published: May 2019

We develop Bayesian state space methods for modelling changes to the mean level or temporal correlation structure of an observed time series due to intermittent coupling with an unobserved process. Novel intervention methods are proposed to model the effect of repeated coupling as a single dynamic process. Latent time varying auto-regressive components are developed to model changes in the temporal correlation structure. Efficient filtering and smoothing methods are derived for the resulting class of models. We propose methods for quantifying the component of variance attributable to an unobserved process, the effect during individual coupling events and the potential for skilful forecasts. The methodology proposed is applied to the study of winter time variability in the dominant pattern of climate variation in the northern hemisphere: the North Atlantic oscillation. Around 70% of the interannual variance in the winter (December–January–February) mean level is attributable to an unobserved process. Skilful forecasts for the winter (December–January–February) mean are possible from the beginning of December.
Maternity‐ward nurses’ kangaroo mother care attitudes and practices: implications and future challenges
Authors: Almazan Joseph U. , Cruz Jonas P. , Albougami Abdulrhman S. , Alamri Majed S. , Adolfo Cris S.
Published: May 2019

Background

Successful implementation of KMC depends on the attitudes and practices of maternity‐ward nurses. This study assessed the attitudes and practices of kangaroo mother care (KMC) by maternity‐ward nurses in the Eastern Philippines.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey design was used in the study. A convenience sample of 138 maternity‐ward nurses working in six rural health units (RHUs), two public hospitals and one private hospital. A questionnaire was used to assess the attitudes and practices of KMC by the recruited maternity‐ward nurses. Data were collected from June to July 2017 in maternity‐ward nurses’ workplace.

Results

Maternity‐ward nurses have a positive attitude towards KMC. Age is associated with attitudes towards KMC. Married maternity‐ward nurses have exhibit better attitudes and practice than single nurses. The attitudes of maternity‐ward nurses with master's degrees towards KMC are more positive than those with BSN degrees. Maternity‐ward nurses from Rural Health Units have better attitudes but fewer support to practice the KMC skills than those from public hospitals.

Conclusions

Maternity‐ward nurses who are married, hold master's degrees and are working in RHUs have better KMC attitudes than their counterparts. Maternity‐ward nurses have good KMC attitude but poor KMC practices. The KMC information and skills of maternity‐ward nurses should be continuously updated to implement KMC effectively and efficiently.
First‐time fathers’ experiences of professional support from child health nurses
Authors: Hrybanova Yana , Ekström Anette , Thorstensson Stina
Published: May 2019

Nowadays, in Sweden, fathers are expected to be active in their father role and to share caring responsibilities for their children equally with mothers. This active role of a father in a family can be challenging, especially for the first‐time fathers. Child health nurses’ support is an important factor for fathers to become confident caregivers. The Father Perceived Professional Support scale (FaPPS scale) can be used in nursing practice for better understanding father's needs of professional support. The aim of this study was to describe first‐time fathers’ experiences of the professional support received from child health nurses and to validate the instrument: ‘FaPPS scale’. A qualitative design, with inductive and deductive approaches, was used in this study. Twelve first‐time fathers participated in the semi‐structured interviews, thereafter grading the FaPPS scale items and commenting on them. The fathers experienced nurses’ support positively when nurses provided practical information and stimulated them to be involved in care of their children. In contrast, the support was experienced negatively because of nurses’ lack of commitment, availability and adaptation to the fathers’ individual needs. The fathers also felt inequality between the support received by fathers and by mothers. Although some fathers perceived it as negative, others considered it fair, believing that mothers needed more support. In addition, fathers expect nurses to actively offer support to them and supervise them in childcare. The fathers also needed meeting other parents, for example in parental groups.

This study also indicates that FaPPS scale can be used both in research and clinical practice, though still needing further development.
Effectiveness of continuous‐care model on self‐care in patients with heart failure: application of line follow‐up
Authors: Rezamand Fatemeh , Shahnazi Hossein , Hassanzadeh Akbar
Published: May 2019

Background

Self‐care behaviours are one of the most important determinant factors in the prognosis of heart failure, which can improve the symptoms of the disease, the performance and the reduction of mortality in these patients.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of continuous‐care pattern on self‐care in heart failure patients admitted to Shahid Chamran Hospital in Isfahan.

Methods

This quasi‐experimental study is implemented on 72 patients with heart failure who are admitted to Shahid Chamran Hospital in Isfahan. The patients are randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups (36 patients in each group). For a period of three months, a continuous‐care model is performed, and then, the self‐care score of patients with heart failure is compared in both groups at baseline and follow‐up assessment. The required data were gathered using a demographic questionnaire and a European Heart Failure Self‐Care Behavior (EHFSCB).

Results

Regarding the implementation of the continuous‐care model, the results showed that the mean self‐care score before the implementation of the continuous‐care model was 28.2 ± 5.02 in the experimental group and 29.5 ± 3.7 in the control group, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.22). However, after implementing continuous‐care model, the mean self‐care score of the experimental group was 51.4.4 ± 2.8 as compared to the control group (30.8 ± 3.2) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the implementation of this care model can lead to an increase in self‐care score in patients with chronic heart failure.
Severe hemorrhagic cystitis caused by the BK polyomavirus is associated with decreased survival post‐allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Kerbauy Lucila Nassif , Kerbauy Mariana Nassif , Bautzer Vivien , Chapchap Eduardo Cerello , de Mattos Vinicius Renan Pinto , da Rocha Juliana Dall’ Agnol , Esteves Iracema , Kutner Jose Mauro , Kerbauy Fabio Rodrigues , Ribeiro Andreza Alice Feitosa , Machado Clarisse Martins , Hamerschlak Nelson , Santos Fabio Pires de Souza
Published: May 2019

Background

BK polyomavirus reactivation can occur following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) and may lead to hemorrhagic cystitis (BKPyV‐HC). We hypothesized that development of BKPyV‐HC is associated with increased mortality post allo‐HSCT.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data on 133 adult patients (≥18 years old) who underwent allo‐HSCT from 2007 until 2014 at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in São Paulo, Brazil.

Results

Thirty‐six patients presented with BKPyV‐HC after a median time of 42 days, with a 1‐year cumulative incidence probability of 28.9% (95% CI 21.5%‐36.7%). In a multivariate Cox model, risk factors for development of BKPyV‐HC included younger age, male sex, development of grade 2‐4 acute graft‐versus‐host disease and recipients of umbilical cord blood grafts. Development of grade 3‐4 BKPyV‐HC (but not grade 1‐2) was associated with a decreased overall survival (OS) in a multivariate Cox model (hazard ratio [HR] 7.51, P < 0.0001) and an increased risk of TRM (HR 3.66, P < 0.0001). Grade 3‐4 BKPyV‐HC was also associated with an increased risk of relapse that did not reach statistical significance (HR 3.01, P = 0.07). Median overall survival (OS) post‐BKPyV‐HC was 4.7 months, and cidofovir had no impact on survival.

Conclusion

Development of BKPyV‐HC appears to be associated with decreased survival following allo‐HSCT.
Functional interrelation of MYC2 and HY5 plays an important role in Arabidopsis seedling development
Authors: Chakraborty Moumita , Gangappa Sreeramaiah N. , Maurya Jay P. , Sethi Vishmita , Srivastava Archana K. , Singh Aparna , Dutta Siddhartha , Ojha Madhusmita , Gupta Nisha , Sengupta Mandar , Ram Hasthi , Chattopadhyay Sudip
Published: May 2019

Arabidopsis MYC2 bHLH transcription factor plays a negative regulatory role in blue light (BL)‐mediated seedling development. HY5 bZIP protein works as a positive regulator of multiple wavelengths of light and promotes photomorphogenesis. Both MYC2 and HY5, belonging to two different classes of transcription factors, are the integrators of multiple signaling pathways. However, the functional interrelations of these two transcription factors in seedling development remain unknown. Additionally, whereas HY5‐mediated regulation of gene expression has been investigated in detail, the transcriptional regulation of HY5 itself is yet to be understood. Here, we show that HY5 and MYC2 work in an antagonistic manner in Arabidopsis seedling development. Our results reveal that HY5 expression is negatively regulated by MYC2 predominantly in BL, and at various stages of development. On the other hand, HY5 negatively regulates the expression of MYC2 at various wavelengths of light. In vitro and in vivo DNA–protein interaction studies suggest that MYC2 binds to the E‐box cis‐acting element of HY5 promoter. Collectively, this study demonstrates a coordinated regulation of MYC2 and HY5 in blue‐light‐mediated Arabidopsis seedling development.
One‐unit compared to two‐unit platelet transfusions for adult oncology outpatients
Authors: Gehrie Eric A. , Frank Steven M. , Visagie Mereze , Grabowski Mary K. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Strockbine Valerie L. , DeMario Vincent M. , Lawrence Courtney E. , Hambley Bryan C. , Uglik Kristin , Ness Paul M. , DeZern Amy E. , Bloch Evan M.
Published: May 2019

Background and Objectives

Platelet dosing has been studied in adult oncology inpatients, but there is almost no published evidence to guide platelet dosing for adult outpatients. We evaluated transfusion indices after 1 unit and 2 unit apheresis platelet transfusions at our hospital to determine whether a benefit to 2‐unit transfusions could be detected.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all adult oncology patients who received an outpatient platelet transfusion over a 16‐month period (July 2016–November 2017). Pre‐ and post‐transfusion platelet count, and chronology of subsequent platelet transfusions were compared.

Results

A total of 8467 platelet transfusions were administered to 602 patients during the study period. 59·8% of patients (n = 360) were transfused interchangeably with one or two platelets throughout the study period. The primary study population were comprised of these patients. On average, a 2‐unit platelet transfusions resulted in a higher immediate post‐transfusion platelet count (43 vs. 37 x 103/μl, P < 0·001) and a lower corrected count increment (9707 vs. 14 060, P < 0·001). Transfusion with 2 platelets did not increase the number of days between outpatient transfusions (median; 4 vs. 4, P = 0·959) or the platelet count at the time of next transfusion (11 vs. 11 x 103/μl, P = 0·147).

Conclusion

Among adult, oncology outpatients that were transfused interchangeably with one or two units of platelets, transfusion with two platelets did not offer a durable improvement in platelet count or impact the subsequent transfusion schedule.