bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Hand Leiomyoma
Authors: Oliver Jeremie D. , Boczar Daniel , Huayllani Maria T. , Restrepo David J. , Sisti Andrea , Manrique Oscar J. , Broer Peter Niclas , Forte Antonio J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Primary leiomyoma is a rare cause of a mass in the hand, with few reported cases to date. To our knowledge, this constitutes the most comprehensive and up-to-date systematic review of the literature of all cases of primary hand leiomyoma. We also provide an additional case recently managed in our practice of confirmed primary vascular leiomyoma of the hand in a 44-year-old woman to add to the current body of literature.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature review of all articles published on primary leiomyoma of the hand. The PubMed database was used, with search terms leiomyoma hand, angioleiomyoma hand, and angiomyoma hand. Articles were selected for their accuracy in anatomic localization in the hand and confirmed pathology of leiomyoma.

Results

Our initial search query resulted in 216 articles. After applying the inclusion criteria, we identified 50 individual articles with 108 cases of confirmed primary leiomyoma in the hand from January 1, 1954, to July 1, 2018. Common initial clinical impressions recorded for primary hand leiomyoma included ganglion cyst, giant-cell tumor, hemangioma, and glomus tumor. Patients presenting with leiomyoma of the hand frequently describe a painful lesion, which differs from most other benign tumors of the hand at presentation.

Conclusions

Leiomyoma is an important consideration when developing a differential diagnosis for primary benign masses in the hand. We hope that this comprehensive review can provide increased awareness of this tumor type.
Concepts in Early Reconstruction of the Burned Hand
Authors: Hundeshagen Gabriel , Warszawski Jan , Tapking Christian , Ziegler Benjamin , Hirche Christoph , Kneser Ulrich , Schmidt Volker J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Early reconstruction of burn sequelae of the hand can be challenging owing to high goals for functional and aesthetic outcome. A variety of reconstructive procedures with ascending levels of complexity exists and warrants careful indication.

Methods

In this case series, the main reconstructive techniques for reconstruction of burn defects of the hand are described, illustrated, and discussed: split thickness skin grafting (STSG) with fibrin glue, dermal matrices with STSG, distant random pattern (abdominal bridge) flap, distant pedicled flap (superficial circumflex iliac artery flap), and free microvascular tissue transfer (anterolateral thigh flap). An algorithm for decision making in the reconstructive process is proposed.

Results

Split thickness skin grafting provides sufficient coverage for partial thickness defects without exposure of functional structures; fixation with fibrin glue avoids unnecessary stapling. Dermal matrices under STSG provide vascularized granulation tissue on full thickness defects and can be used as salvage procedure on functional structures. Distant random pattern or pedicled flaps provide sufficient coverage of large full thickness defects with exposed functional structures but pose some challenges regarding patient compliance and immobilization. Free tissue transfer allows tailored reconstruction of large full thickness defects with exposed functional structures and can be safely and feasibly performed. Secondary and tertiary procedures are needed with more complex techniques; if applied correctly and consequently, all methods can yield favorable functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusions

Reconstruction of the burned hand may require a broad armamentarium of surgical techniques with different levels of complexity, versatility, and applicability. Excellent results can be achieved with the right procedure for the right patient.
Simultaneous Surgical Correction of Skeletal Class III Dentofacial Deformity During Acute Management of Facial Fractures
Authors: Pandit Vikram S. , Chang Chun-Shin , Ho Cheng-Ting , Hsu Sam Sheng-Pin , Lin Susie , Liao Han-Tsung
Published: October 2019

Background

Mandibular prognathism is a common dentofacial deformity in Asia. Treatment of such condition may vary from orthodontic camouflage to surgical orthodontics with orthognathic surgery depending on the severity of the condition. Because of the prominent position of the mandible, fractures involving different locations of the mandible commonly occur in maxillofacial trauma. Anatomical reduction of maxillofacial fractures and restoration of the pretraumatic occlusion are the primary goals of acute management of facial fractures. In patients with dentofacial deformity, simultaneous surgical correction of their malocclusion and improvement of their facial aesthetics while providing open treatment to the maxillofacial fractures are rarely reported in the literature.

Patients and Methods

We reported 3 cases with combined open reduction and internal fixation and surgery-first orthognathic surgery principles to correct class III malocclusion with mandibular prognathism during acute management of maxillofacial fractures. Computer-assisted surgical simulation was used in surgical planning and fabrication of surgical splint.

Results

Two patients underwent mandibular osteotomies in addition to open reduction and internal fixation of maxillofacial fractures. One patient had both maxillary and mandibular osteotomies during facial fracture repair. Class I occlusion with satisfactory facial profile was achieved in all 3 cases.

Conclusions

Careful patient selection with presurgical planning using computer-assisted surgical simulation is essential in achieving successful outcomes in correcting dentofacial deformities while managing maxillofacial fractures. This combined technique is a viable option in the surgical management of facial fractures in patients with dentofacial deformities.
Perioperative Risks of Sleeve Gastrectomy Versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Among Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Montgomery John R. , Waits Seth A. , Dimick Justin B. , Telem Dana A.
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To determine whether patients with CKD experience higher rates of perioperative complications after RYGB compared to sleeve gastrectomy.

Summary of Background Data:

For obese CKD patients who qualify for bariatric surgery, sleeve gastrectomy is often preferred to RYGB based on perceptions of prohibitively-high perioperative risks surrounding RYGB. However, some patients with CKD are not candidates for sleeve gastrectomy and the incremental increased-risk from RYGB has never been rigorously tested in this population.

Methods:

CKD patients who underwent RYGB or sleeve gastrectomy between 2015 and 2017 were identified from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Participant Use File. RYGB patients were 1:1 propensity-score matched with sleeve gastrectomy patients based on preoperative factors that influence operative choice. Primary outcomes included 30-day readmissions, surgical complications, medical complications, and death. Secondary outcomes included the individual complications used to create the composite surgical/medical complications. Univariate logistic regression was used to compare outcomes. E-value statistic was used to test the strength of outcome point estimates against possible unmeasured confounding.

Results:

Demographics were similar between RYGB (n = 673) and sleeve gastrectomy (n = 673) cohorts. There were no statistically significant differences in primary outcomes. Among secondary outcomes, only acute kidney injury was statistically-significantly higher among RYGB patients (4.9% vs 2.7%, P = 0.035, E-value 1.27).

Conclusions:

Among well-matched cohorts of RYGB and sleeve gastrectomy patients, incidence of primary outcomes were similar. Among secondary outcomes, only acute kidney injury was statistically-significantly higher among RYGB patients; however, the E-value for this difference was small and relatively weak confounder(s) could abrogate the statistical difference. The perception that RYGB has prohibitively-high perioperative risks among CKD patients is disputable and operative selection should be weighed on patient candidacy and anticipated long-term benefit.
Studying global processing in autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with gaze movements: The example of a copying task
Authors: Seernani D. , Ioannou C. , Damania K , Spindler K. , Hill H. , Foulsham T. , Smyrnis N. , Bender S. , Fleischhaker C. , Biscaldi M. , Ebner-Priemer U. , Klein C
Published: October 2019

Recent discussions in the literature, along with the revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) [2], suggest aetiological commonalities between the highly comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Addressing this discussion requires studying these disorders together by comparing constructs typical to each of them. In the present study, we investigate global processing, known to be difficult for participants with ASD, and Intra-Subject Variability (ISV), known to be consistently increased in participants with ADHD, in groups, aged 10-13 years, with ADHD (n=25), ASD without comorbid ADHD (ASD-) (n=13) and ASD with ADHD (ASD+) (n=18) in comparison with a typically developing group (n=22). A Copying task, typically requiring global processing and in this case particularly designed using equally complex stimuli to also measure ISV across trials, was selected. Oculomotor measures in this task proved to be particularly sensitive to group differences. While increased ISV was not observed in the present task in participants with ADHD, both ASD groups needed to look longer on the figure to be drawn, indicating that global processing takes longer in ASD. However, the ASD+ group needed to fixate on the figure only between drawing movements, whereas the ASD-group needed to do this throughout the drawing process. The present study provides evidence towards ASD and ADHD being separate, not-overlapping, disorders. Since the pure ASD-group was affected more by central coherence problems than the ASD+ group, it may suggest that neuropsychological constructs interact differently in different clinical groups and sub-groups.
The role of SRSF3 splicing factor in generating circular RNAs
Authors: Naqvi Ammar S. , Asnani Mukta , Black Kathryn L. , Hayer Katharina E. , Taylor Deanne , Thomas-Tikhonenko Andrei
Published: October 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent a novel class of non-coding RNAs that are emerging as potentially important regulators of gene expression. circRNAs are typically generated from host gene transcripts through a non-canonical back-splicing mechanism, whose regulation is still not well understood. To explore regulation of circRNAs in cancer, we generated sequence data from RNase R-resistant transcripts in human p493-6 B-lymphoid cells and identified thousands of novel as well as previously identified circRNAs. Approximately 40% of expressed genes generated a circRNA, with half of them generating multiple isoforms, suggesting the involvement of alternative back-splicing and regulatory RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). We observed that genes generating circRNAs with back-spliced exonic junctions were enriched for RBP recognition motifs, including multiple splicing factors, most notably SRSF3, a splicing factor known to promote exon inclusion. To test the role of SRSF3 role in circRNA production, we performed traditional RNA-seq in p493-6 B-lymphoid cells with and without SRSF3 knockdown, and identified 926 mRNA transcripts, whose canonical splicing was affected by SRSF3. We found that a subset (205) of these SRSF3 targets served as host transcripts for circRNA, suggesting that SRSF3 may regulate exon circularization. Since this splicing factor is deregulated in hematologic malignancies, we hypothesize that SRSF3-dependent circRNAs, similar to their mRNA counterparts, might contribute to the pathogenesis of lymphomas and leukemias.
Bootstrapping promotes the RSFC-behavior associations: an application of individual cognitive traits prediction
Authors: Wei Lijiang , Jing Bin , Li Haiyun
Published: October 2019

Resting state functional connectivity records enormous functional interaction information between any pair of brain nodes, which enriches the prediction of individual phenotypes. To reduce the high dimensional features in prediction, correlation analysis is a common way for feature selection. However, rs-fMRI signal exhibits typically low signal-to-noise ratio and correlation analysis is sensitive to outliers and data distribution, which may bring unstable and uninformative features to subsequent prediction. To alleviate this problem, a bootstrapping-based feature selection framework was proposed and applied on three widely used regression models: connectome-based predictive model (CPM), support vector regression (SVR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). A large open-source dataset from Human Connectome Project (HCP) was adopted in the study and a series of cognitive traits were acted as the prediction targets. To systematically investigate the influences of different parameter settings on the bootstrapping-based framework, a total of 216 parameter combinations were evaluated through the R value between the predicted and real cognitive traits, and the best identified performance among them was chosen out as the final prediction accuracy for each cognitive trait. By using bootstrapping without replacement, the best performances of CPM with positive and negative feature sets, SVR and LASSO averagely increased by 28.0%, 33.2%, 11.6% and 24.3% in R values in contrast to the baseline method without bootstrapping. By using bootstrapping with replacement, these best performances increased by 22.1%, 22.9%, 9.4% and 19.6%. Furthermore, the bootstrapping-based feature selection methods could effectively refine the original feature sets obtained from correlation analysis, which thus retained the more stable and informative feature sets. The results demonstrate that bootstrapping-based feature selection is an easy-to-use and effective method to improve RSFC prediction of cognitive traits and is highly recommended in future RSFC prediction studies.
Functional brain network reconfiguration during learning in a dynamic environment
Authors: Kao Chang-Hao , Khambhati Ankit N. , Bassett Danielle S. , Nassar Matthew R. , McGuire Joseph T. , Gold Joshua I. , Kable Joseph W.
Published: October 2019

When learning about dynamic and uncertain environments, people should update their beliefs most strongly when new evidence is most informative, such as when the environment undergoes a surprising change or existing beliefs are highly uncertain. Here we show that modulations of surprise and uncertainty are encoded in a particular, temporally dynamic pattern of whole-brain functional connectivity, and this encoding is enhanced in individuals that adapt their learning dynamics more appropriately in response to these factors. The key feature of this whole-brain pattern of functional connectivity is stronger connectivity, or functional integration, between the fronto-parietal and other functional systems. Our results provide new insights regarding the association between dynamic adjustments in learning and dynamic, large-scale changes in functional connectivity across the brain.
Comparative therapeutic potential of ALX-0171 and palivizumab against RSV clinical isolate infection of well-differentiated primary pediatric bronchial epithelial cell cultures
Authors: Broadbent Lindsay , Parke Hong Guo , Ferguson Lyndsey J. , Miller Andrena , Shields Michael D. , Detalle Laurent , Power Ultan F.
Published: October 2019

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes severe lower respiratory tract infections in young infants. There are no RSV-specific treatments available. Ablynx has been developing an anti-RSV F-specific Nanobody®, ALX-0171. To characterise the therapeutic potential of ALX-0171 we exploited our well-differentiated primary pediatric bronchial epithelial cell (WD-PBEC)/RSV infection model, which replicates several hallmarks of RSV diseasein vivo.Using 2 clinical isolates (BT2a; Memphis 37), we compared the therapeutic potential of ALX-0171 with palivizumab, which is currently prescribed for RSV prophylaxis in high-risk infants. ALX-0171 treatment (900 mM) at 24 h post-infection reduced apically released RSV titers to near or below the limit of detection within 24 h for both strains. Progressively lower doses resulted in concomitantly diminished RSV neutralisation. ALX-0171 was approximately 3 fold more potent in this therapeutic RSV/WD-PBEC model than palivizumab (mean IC50= 346.9-363.6 nM and 1048-1090 nM for ALX-0171 and palivizumab, respectively), irrespective of the clinical isolate. When viral genomic copies (GC) were measured by RT-qPCR, the therapeutic effect was considerably less and GCs were only moderately reduced (0.62 – 1.28 Log10copies/mL) by ALX-0171 treatment at 300 and 900 nM. Similar findings were evident for palivizumab. Therefore, ALX-0171 was very potent at neutralising RSV released from apical surfaces but only had a limited impact on virus replication. The data indicate a clear disparity between viable virus neutralisation and GC viral load, the latter of which does not discriminate between viable and neutralised RSV. This study validates the RSV/WD-PBEC model for the pre-clinical evaluation of RSV antivirals.
Age of seizure onset as a major determinant of memory changes following surgery for hippocampal sclerosis
Authors: Leal-Conceição Eduardo , Bianchin Marino Muxfeldt , Borelli Wyllians Vendramini , de Oliveira Liss Januário , Wagner Mário Bernardes , Palmini André , Neto Eliseu Paglioli , Radaelli Graciane , Escobar Vinícius Spencer , da Costa Jaderson Costa , Portuguez Mirna Wetters
Published: October 2019

Objective

To study the relation of epileptological and surgical variables with post-operative memory performance, following surgery for refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) due to hippocampal sclerosis (HS).

Methods

Logical memory (LM) and visual memory (VM) scores for immediate and late recall of 201 patients operated for MTLE/HS from 1996 to 2016 were reviewed. All patients were evaluated prior to surgery and reevaluated up until 5 years after the procedure. Scores were standardized to a control group of 54 healthy individuals matched for age and education. Patients were divided in two groups according to the hemisphere affected and scores for immediate and late recall were compared. Reliable Change Index (RCI) with a 90% confidence interval was performed to verify individual memory changes for each late LM (lLM) and late VM (lVM) score. A multiple linear regression was performed with the RCI using late recall scores of lLM and lVM and clinical variables.

Results

112 (56%) patients had left HS (lHS). The lHS group showed decreased immediate LM (iLM) scores before and after surgery (p<0.05), compared with rHS. The rHS group showed increased iLM scores post-operatively (p<0.05). RCI of the rHS group showed that 6 (7%) individuals had improved, 78 (87%) stabilized and 5 (6%) decresead in lLM scores, and for lVM 7 (8%) improved, 80 (89%) stabilized and 2 (3%) worsened (RCI> 1.645). RCI of the lHS group showed that 3 (3%) individuals had increased scores, 104 (93%) stabilized and 5 (4%) worsened for lLM, and for lVM 3 (3%) obtained improved scores, 103 (92%) stabilized and 6 (5%) decreased (RCI> 1.645). lHS and later age of onset of the first epileptic seizure were predictors of lLM loss (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Left MTLE/HS and later age of seizure onset were predictive factors for worsening of lLM. No RCI predictors of post-op lVM performance were identified. We found a decreased baseline functioning of LM in the lHS group and improvement of LM in some patients who had resection of the right MTL. Patients of the rHS group had a higher percentage of reliable post-op improvement for both VM and LM scores.
Topical 2% ketoconazole cream monotherapy significantly improves adult female acne: A double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Chottawornsak Natcha , Chongpison Yuda , Asawanonda Pravit , Kumtornrut Chanat
Published: October 2019

The emergence of bacterial resistance is a global crisis. Prolonged use of antibiotics especially in acne is one issue of concern among dermatologists. Ketoconazole (KTZ) cream, a topical antifungal with anti‐inflammatory and antiandrogenic actions, can decrease lipase activity ofCutibacterium acnes in vitro. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of KTZ cream in mild adult female acne (AFA) by conducting a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial using KTZ 2% and placebo cream twice daily for 10 weeks. We assessed the improvement of clinical severity, measured by AFA score graded by investigators and participants, and the change of acne count. Forty‐one participants enrolled in our study. The proportion of participants with acne improvement from baseline (42.9% vs 9.5%,P = 0.015) and the success rate (45.0% vs 14.3%,P = 0.043) in the KTZ group were significantly higher than that of the placebo group. The most common adverse events were dryness and itching. The percentage change of acne count decreased significantly compared with baseline but did not differ statistically between the two groups (P = 0.268). We concluded that the KTZ monotherapy showed a plausible effect in improving AFA with excellent safety profile. It should be considered as a viable option for mild AFA treatment.
Pop‐off data storage tags reveal niche partitioning between native and non‐native predators in a novel ecosystem
Authors: Raby Graham D. , Johnson Timothy B. , Kessel Steven T. , Stewart Thomas J. , Fisk Aaron T.
Published: October 2019

Niche partitioning might be predicted to be particularly dynamic in ‘novel ecosystems’ characterized by human‐altered environmental conditions and biological invasions. Restoration efforts for native species in such systems can be informed by detailed characterization of niche partitioning.

In Lake Ontario, fishery management agencies have been engaged in a long‐term struggle to restore native top predators including lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush). Meanwhile, management agencies continue to stock non‐native species like Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) into the lake to support a recreational fishery and to help control the abundance of a non‐native forage fish, the alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus).

We used pop‐off data storage tags to study fine scale (9.1M lines of data from 22 animals) behaviour and habitat use by lake trout (native) and Chinook salmon (non‐native) in Lake Ontario in terms of depth and temperature, recorded at ≤70 s intervals for periods of up to 12 months.

Chinook salmon occupied warmer and shallower waters during summer than did lake trout, and their niche breadth was wider. They achieved greater niche breadth in part because they were much more active vertically, cumulatively traveling 103 ± 1 m/hour during summer (model‐estimated median), whereas most lake trout were relatively inactive vertically (7 ± 1 m/hour). In each of our analyses, there was more inter‐individual variation among lake trout than among Chinook salmon, driven by some lake trout that spent considerable time making forays into warmer, shallower waters.

Synthesis and applications. Our results illustrate the different foraging tactics used by two species in the Great Lakes and reflect their distinct life histories. Physical niche partitioning between Chinook salmon and lake trout helps to explain how these species can co‐exist in a multi‐species fishery even while having overlap in diet. The diversity of behaviours exhibited here by native lake trout have likely helped them persist during dramatic changes to the forage base in recent decades; that flexibility could help underlie their long‐term prospects for restoration during future changes to the ecosystem.
Unveiling the complexities of mild stroke: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the mild stroke experience
Authors: Hodson Tenelle , Gustafsson Louise , Cornwell Petrea
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Limited research has been conducted from a longitudinal and qualitative perspective on the experience of life after mild stroke. This restricts the knowledge held in this area. This study aimed to answer the question: How do people with mild stroke understand their experiences in the first 6 months after hospital discharge?

Methods

Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, involving five Australians with mild stroke, interviewed at 1‐, 3‐ and 6 months post‐hospital discharge.

Results

Two themes emerged about the transitional journeys post‐mild stroke: (i) Understanding and representation of stroke and (ii) Underlying relationship dynamics revealed. The first theme had two subthemes: (i) Society defines the stroke experience, and (ii) The past determines the present. The first of these reflected the impact that societal perceptions of ‘stroke’ had on participants’ views of their mild stroke, including feelings of being ‘lucky’ even when experiencing hidden difficulties that were viewed as liveable repercussions. The second explores how previous health conditions acted as a mediator for participants’ experiences of the mild stroke and how personal attributes assisted adaption to post‐mild stroke changes. The final theme highlights how participants’ relationships were either strengthened or weakened after the mild stroke, dependent on previous relationship dynamics.

Conclusion

Current societal perceptions of stroke are centred on ‘observable’ symptoms; however, more subtle symptoms common in the mild stroke population remain widely unknown by the general public impacting post‐mild stroke experiences. Previous health conditions and personal attributes have an impact on how people react to their mild stroke and help to explain the individualist nature of mild stroke outcomes. Relationship dynamics prior to mild stroke can impact on post‐mild stroke family functioning, and should be screened for, and supported by health professionals. All of these factors emphasise the need for a patient‐centred and multidisciplinary approach when determining interventions.
Testing the habitat suitability index for great crested newt in Central Poland
Authors: Bełcik Michał , Klimaszewski Krzysztof , Pełnia‐Iwanicka Ewa , Zajchowska Justyna
Published: October 2019

As amphibians decline at alarming rates worldwide, there is a growing need for developing and perfecting tools for predicting species occurrence, abundance and demography. One of those tools are Habitat Suitability Indices (HSI) that are widely used in conservation for habitat evaluation. We have used HSI developed for great crested newt Triturus cristatus to assess its predictive capability, and to determine which of the indices that make the final HSI are the most important factors in shaping this species presence in waterbodies in forest landscape of Central Poland. Our focus was at the local scale variables. We found that the occurrence of T. cristatus could be predicted by the HSI, and the three most important factors in shaping that prediction were the pond area as well as the presence and abundance of invertebrates or predatory fish. We argue that biotic factors could have, along landscape features, significant influence on habitat suitability of this species.
Bacillus licheniformis escapes from Myxococcus xanthus predation by deactivating myxovirescin A through enzymatic glucosylation
Authors: Wang Chuandong , Liu Xinlin , Zhang Peng , Wang Yan , Li Zhifeng , Li Xun , Wang Renqing , Shang Zhaohui , Yan Jingen , He Haifeng , Wang Jing , Hu Wei , Li Yuezhong
Published: October 2019

Myxococcus xanthus kills susceptible bacteria using myxovirescin A (TA) during predation. However, whether prey cells in nature can escape M. xanthus by developing resistance to TA is unknown. We observed that many field‐isolated Bacillus licheniformis strains could survive encounters with M. xanthus, which was correlated to their TA resistance. A TA glycoside was identified in the broth of predation‐resistant B. licheniformis J32 co‐cultured with M. xanthus, and a glycosyltransferase gene (yjiC) was up‐regulated in J32 after the addition of TA. Hetero‐expressed YjiC‐modified TA to a TA glucoside (TA‐Gluc) by conjugating a glucose moiety to the C‐21 hydroxyl group, and the resulting compound was identical to the TA glycoside present in the co‐culture broth. TA‐Gluc exhibited diminished bactericidal activity due to its weaker binding with LspA, as suggested by in silico docking data. Heterologous expression of the yjiC gene conferred both TA and M. xanthus‐predation resistance to the host Escherichia coli cells. Furthermore, under predatory pressure, B. licheniformis Y071 rapidly developed predation resistance by acquiring TA resistance through the overexpression of yjiC and lspA genes. These results suggest that M. xanthus predation resistance in B. licheniformis is due to the TA deactivation by glucosylation, which is induced in a predator‐mediated manner.
Adult size and timing of reproduction in five species ofAsobaraparasitoid wasps
Authors: Askari Seyahooei Majeed , Kraaijeveld Ken , Bagheri Abdoolnabi , van Alphen Jacques J. M.
Published: October 2019

The majority of adult parasitoid wasps are unable to synthesize lipids and therefore face a trade‐off between the investment of lipids in eggs or in the maintenance of soma. It has been shown that resource allocation should depend on body size in parasitoids. Given that smaller females have shorter expected life times, they should concentrate their reproductive effort into early life. To test this prediction, we investigated the relationship between body size and the timing of egg production in parasitoids. We measured body size, lipid reserves, and reproductive investment (number of eggs, ovigeny index equivalent [OIE] and egg size) at eclosion in five species ofAsobara(Hymenoptera: Braconidae) originating from different geographic and climatic environments. Our results show significant interspecific variation in all these traits. A diagnostic test for phylogenetic independence revealed that closely related species did not resemble each other more closely than expected by chance for all traits measured. Lipid reserves scaled positively with body size both between and within species. In agreement with theory, OI correlated negatively with body size both between and within species. Total egg area at eclosion correlated negatively with lipid reserves both between and within species. This indicates the existence of a trade‐off between allocation of lipids to current reproduction and survival/future reproduction. With the exception of the most extreme pro‐ovigenic species,A. persimilis, we found that pro‐ovigeny was compensated for by small egg size. Our results indicate the role of habitats in shaping interspecific variation in resource allocation strategies.
Effect of the Incorporation of Amaranth (Amaranthus Mantegazzianus) into Fat‐ and Cholesterol‐Rich Diets for Wistar Rats
Authors: Sisti Martín S. , Scilingo Adriana , Añón María Cristina
Published: October 2019

The hypocholesterolemic effect of amaranth was studied in male Wistar rats fed a high‐fat diet that was supplemented with amaranth flour, AF, or isolated protein, AI. Likewise, an in vitro test was carried out, in which the capacity of the AI, AF, the digested isolate, DAI, and the digested amaranth flour, DAF, to displace the cholesterol of the model micelles was evaluated. The in vivo results showed an increase in the excretion of cholesterol through feces (77% for AF7; 23% and 108% for AI30 and AF30, respect control) and a decrease in the content of hepatic cholesterol (98% for AF7; 96% and 53% for AI30 and AF30 respect control); whereas in vitro it was shown that both AF and DAF have greater power to displace cholesterol than the AI and DAI (IC50 0.1, 0.71, 0.2, and 2.1 for AF, DAF, AI, and DAI, respectively). These evidences show that the proteins and fibers of amaranth have an effect on cholesterol metabolism.

Practical Application

Nowadays, consumers give great importance to the effect that food has on health. The results shown in this work evidence the potential hypocholesterolemic activity presented by amaranth, this is of great importance due to the increase in the incidence of dyslipidemia in the world population and the importance of amaranth as a nonextensive crop of excellent agronomic, nutritional, and bioactive properties suitable for preparation of functional foods.
Alpha‐Casein and Beta‐Lactoglobulin from Cow Milk Exhibit Antioxidant Activity: A Plausible Link to Antiaging Effects
Authors: Kim Yong‐Eun , Kim Jae Whan , Cheon Seonghye , Nam Myoung Soo , Kim Kee K.
Published: October 2019

Studies on the discovery and function of antioxidants are consistently being performed because oxidative stress can cause various diseases. Many compounds and natural products have antioxidant activity in vitro; however, it is often difficult to reproduce their effects in vivo. Additionally, methods to measure antioxidant activities in cells are also scarce. Here, we investigated the antioxidant activity of milk proteins by observing the formation of arsenite‐induced stress granules as a tool to evaluate antioxidant activity in cells. Milk proteins not only decreased the formation of stress granules in several cell types but also scavenged 2,2'‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cations in vitro. In addition, milk proteins inhibited cellular senescence based on an SA‐β‐galactosidase assay, and increased differentiation to myotubes from myoblasts isolated from the skeletal muscles of mouse pups. Taken together, our results demonstrate that milk proteins have an antiaging effect, especially prevention of skeletal muscle loss, through their antioxidant activities.

Practical Application

Our results provide that antioxidant effects of milk proteins containing α‐caseins, β‐caseins, and β‐lactoglobulin can mitigate aging‐related damage induced by oxidative stress through showing inhibition of cellular senescence and increase of differentiation and maturation of myoblast. Therefore, we suggest that milk proteins could be potent health supplements to prevent aging‐associated diseases, especially sarcopenia.
Chromosome‐level genome assembly of the predator Propylea japonica to understand its tolerance to insecticides and high temperatures
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Li Song , Luo Junyu , Du Pei , Wu Linke , Li Yarong , Zhu Xiangzhen , Wang Li , Zhang Shuai , Cui Jinjie
Published: October 2019

The ladybird beetle Propylea japonica is an important natural enemy in agro‐ecological systems. Studies on the strong tolerance of P. japonica to high temperatures and insecticides, and its population and phenotype diversity have recently increased. However, abundant genome resources for obtaining insights into stress‐resistance mechanisms and genetic intra‐species diversity for P. japonica are lacking. Here, we constructed the P. japonica genome maps using Pacific Bioscience (PacBio) and Illumina sequencing technologies. The genome size was 850.90 Mb with a contig N50 of 813.13 kb. The Hi‐C sequence data were used to upgrade draft genome assemblies; 4,777 contigs were assembled to 10 chromosomes; and the final draft genome assembly was 803.93 Mb with a contig N50 of 813.98 kb and a scaffold N50 of 100.34 Mb. Approximately 495.38 Mb of repeated sequences was annotated. The 18,018 protein‐coding genes were predicted, of which 95.78% were functionally annotated, and 1,407 genes were species‐specific. The phylogenetic analysis showed that P. japonica diverged from the ancestor of Anoplophora glabripennis and Tribolium castaneum ~ 236.21 million years ago. We detected that some important gene families involved in detoxification of pesticides and tolerance to heat stress were expanded in P. japonica, especially cytochrome P450 and Hsp70 genes. Overall, the high‐quality draft genome sequence of P. japonica will provide invaluable resource for understanding the molecular mechanisms of stress resistance and will facilitate the research on population genetics, evolution and phylogeny of Coccinellidae. This genome will also provide new avenues for conserving the diversity of predator insects.
Impact of the introduction and withdrawal of financial incentives on the delivery of alcohol screening and brief advice in English primary health care: an interrupted time–series analysis
Authors: O'Donnell Amy , Angus Colin , Hanratty Barbara , Hamilton Fiona L. , Petersen Irene , Kaner Eileen
Published: October 2019

Aim

To evaluate the impact of the introduction and withdrawal of financial incentives on alcohol screening and brief advice delivery in English primary care.

Design

Interrupted time–series using data from The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database. Data were split into three periods: (1) before the introduction of financial incentives (1 January 2006–31 March 2008); (2) during the implementation of financial incentives (1 April 2008–31 March 2015); and (3) after the withdrawal of financial incentives (1 April 2015–31 December 2016). Segmented regression models were fitted, with slope and step change coefficients at both intervention points.

Setting

England.

Participants

Newly registered patients (16+) in 500 primary care practices for 2006–16 (n = 4 278 723).

Measurements

The outcome measures were percentage of patients each month who: (1) were screened for alcohol use; (2) screened positive for higher‐risk drinking; and (3) were reported as having received brief advice on alcohol consumption.

Findings

There was no significant change in the percentage of newly registered patients who were screened for alcohol use when financial incentives were introduced. However, the percentage fell (P < 0.001) immediately when incentives were withdrawn, and fell by a further 2.96 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.21–3.70] patients per 1000 each month thereafter. After the introduction of incentives, there was an immediate increase of 9.05 (95% CI = 3.87–14.23) per 1000 patients screening positive for higher‐risk drinking, but no significant further change over time. Withdrawal of financial incentives was associated with an immediate fall in screen‐positive rates of 29.96 (95% CI = 19.56–40.35) per 1000 patients, followed by a rise each month thereafter of 2.14 (95% CI = 1.51–2.77) per 1000. Screen‐positive patients recorded as receiving alcohol brief advice increased by 20.15 (95% CI = 12.30–28.00) per 1000 following the introduction of financial incentives, and continued to increase by 0.39 (95% CI = 0.26–0.53) per 1000 monthly until withdrawal. At this point, delivery of brief advice fell by 18.33 (95% CI = 11.97–24.69) per 1000 patients and continued to fall by a further 0.70 (95% CI = 0.28–1.12) per 1000 per month.

Conclusions

Removing a financial incentive for alcohol prevention in English primary care was associated with an immediate and sustained reduction in the rate of screening for alcohol use and brief advice provision. This contrasts with no, or limited, increase in screening and brief advice delivery rates following the introduction of the scheme.
Money and Blood: Remittances as a Substance of Relatedness in Transnational Families in Nepal
Authors: Zharkevich Ina
Published: October 2019

Drawing on research with transnational families in Nepal, this article explores how kinship is reconstituted through transnational mobility and what role material flows play in sustaining and disrupting kinship ties, rethinking remittances as a substance of relatedness. In a situation of unprecedented international mobility in Nepal, money has become a substance through which kinship is produced across time and space, resulting in a profound reconfiguration of the institution of the family, with long‐distance marriages and nuclear families increasingly becoming the norm. Transnational families in Nepal maintain cohesiveness on condition that there is a flow of remittances, pointing toward the role of money in constituting affective relations, delineating the boundaries of transnational families, and reproducing kinship ties across borders. Rather than arguing that money is “thicker than blood,” the article shows that the flow of money illuminates how thick “blood” is: the extent to which affective kinship ties map onto formal kinship structures in the world of today. [transnational families, substance of relatedness, remittances, money, Nepal]
The burden of and factors associated with misclassification of intrapartum stillbirth: Evidence from a large scale multicentric observational study
Authors: KC Ashish , Berkelhamer Sara , Gurung Rejina , Hong Zhou , Wang Haijun , Sunny Avinash K. , Bhattarai Pratiksha , Poudel Pragya G. , Litorp Helena
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Global estimates suggest 2.6 million stillbirths and 2.5 million neonatal deaths occur annually worldwide. The majority of these deaths occur in low resource settings where analysis of health metrics and outcomes measurements may be challenging. We examined the misclassification of documented intrapartum stillbirth and factors associated with misclassification.

Material and methods

A prospective observational study was performed in 12 public hospitals in Nepal. Data were extracted from the medical records of all births that occurred during the 6‐month period of the study. For the study purpose, we classified birth outcome based on the presence of fetal heart sound (FHS) at admission and use of neonatal resuscitation. The health worker‐documented intrapartum stillbirths were considered potentially misclassified when there were FHS present at admission and no resuscitation initiated after birth. The association between potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirth and complications during labor, birthweight and gestational age was assessed using Pearson’s chi‐square test, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 39 562 mother‐infant dyads were enrolled in the study, all of whom had FHS at admission. Among the 391 intrapartum stillbirths recorded during the study, 180 (46.0%) of them had FHS at admission with no resuscitation initiated after birth and were considered potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirths. Among these potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirths, 170 (43.5%) had FHS present 15 minutes before birth and 10 had no FHS 15 minutes before birth Among the potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirths, 23.3% had complications during labor, 93.3% had birthweight less than 2500 g and 90.0% were born preterm. The risk of intrapartum misclassification was nearly four times higher among low birthweight babies (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8 to 7.0, P < 0.001) and five times higher among preterm babies (aOR 5.3, 95% CI 3.0 to 9.3, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We estimate that 46% of intrapartum stillbirths were potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirths. Improving quality of both FHS monitoring and neonatal resuscitation as well as measurement of the care will reduce the risk of potentially misclassified intrapartum stillbirth and consequently intrapartum stillbirth.
Individual‐based relative deprivation as a response to interpersonal help: The roles of status discrepancy and type of help
Authors: Zhang Hong , Deng Weijing , Wei Li
Published: October 2019

Individual‐based relative deprivation (IRD) refers to anger and resentment associated with upward interpersonal comparison. Four studies investigated whether and when IRD can be a result of receiving help. In all the studies, we found an interaction between type of help (i.e., autonomy‐oriented vs. dependency‐oriented help) and status discrepancy such that participants experienced a higher level of IRD after receiving dependency‐oriented help from a higher status helper than in other conditions. This interaction emerged uniquely on IRD, but not on general affect, self‐esteem, or evaluations of helper. Moreover, Study 3 indicated that the perception of a diminished likelihood of changing mediated the impact of dependency‐oriented, high‐status help on IRD. Study 4 showed that IRD stemming from such help was positively associated with prioritizing self‐interest over others’. Implications for research on help and IRD are discussed.
Mechanisms of Panax ginseng action as an antidepressant
Authors: Jin Yang , Cui Ranji , Zhao Lihong , Fan Jie , Li Bingjin
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Panax ginseng, a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine with multiple pharmacological activities, plays a crucial role in modulating mood disorders. Several recent studies have identified an underlying role of Panax ginseng in the prevention and treatment of depression. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Materials and Methods

In this review, we summarized the recent progress of antidepressant effects and underlying mechanisms of Panax ginseng and its representative herbal formulae.

Results

The molecular and cellular mechanisms of Panax ginseng and its herbal formulae include modulating monoamine neurotransmitter system, upregulating the expression of neurotrophic factors, regulating the function of HPA axis, and anti‐inflammatory action.

Conclusions

Therefore, this review may provide theoretical bases and clinical applications for the treatment of depression by Panax ginseng and its representative herbal formulae.
Studying the Relationships Between the Number of APs, AP Performance, and College Outcomes
Authors: Beard Jonathan J. , Hsu Julian , Ewing Maureen , Godfrey Kelly E.
Published: October 2019

High school students enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses and take AP exams for a variety of reasons. However, a lack of information about the extent to which there are incremental benefits associated with taking multiple AP exams has fostered a perception that students must take many APs to be prepared for college. Conversely, many American students graduate from high school without even one AP, raising questions about whether such experiences should have been more strongly encouraged. Our article investigates the incremental gains in college student outcomes that are associated with taking and performing well on numerous AP exams. Using postsecondary transcript records, we examine the relationships between college outcomes (first‐year grades and bachelor's degree attainment) and AP (number of AP exams taken and number of AP exams with passing scores of 3 or higher). After controlling for achievement, demographic characteristics, and other factors, we find that the biggest predicted boost in first‐year grades and on‐time bachelor's degree attainment are associated with AP participation changing from zero to one AP exam and from one to two AP exams. Taking and performing well on more than four to six AP exams does not markedly alter predicted first‐year college grades and on‐time bachelor's degree attainment rates.
Accounting facilitating sociopolitical aims: The case of Maryland hospitals
Authors: Malmmose Margit , Fouladi Negin
Published: October 2019

In 2014, the State of Maryland in the United States implemented a substantial change to their hospital payment approach in the form of “Global Budgets”. This strategy for financing garnered significant attention because acute care hospitals in the state transitioned from a fee‐for‐service hospital payment system to a prospective frame‐based budget. Applying the conceptual framework of Miller and Power [Academy of Management Annals, 7(1), 557–605], we emphasise how calculative practices actively influence organisational structure decision‐making. The study investigates the reciprocal role of accounting practices in the facilitation of hospital policies. Findings demonstrate that accounting practices recursively constitute and reshape the organisation of hospitals. The policy change to Global Budgets has influenced accounting practices, which likewise have promoted large organisational changes that increase engagement with external stakeholders. The consequences of the Global Budget policy have been significant, leading to highly complex administrative practices while also necessitating a cost shifting in order to subsidise physician costs, due to the separation of hospitals and physician organisations. However, we also witness how Global Budgets and the combination of centralised monitoring with decentralised managerial freedom substantiate remarkable holistic quality initiatives.