bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of residual renal function using beta‐trace protein: Impact of dialysis procedures
Authors: Bargnoux Anne‐Sophie , Buthiau Delphine , Morena Marion , Rodriguez Annie , Noguera‐Gonzalez Maria‐Eugenia , Gilbert Olivia , Le Quintrec Moglie , Kuster Nils , Cristol Jean‐Paul
Published: January 2020

Beta‐trace protein (BTP), a low molecular weight protein of 23‐29 kDa, has been proposed as a promising biomarker to estimate residual renal function (RRF) in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Indeed, BTP is cleared by native kidney but not during conventional HD session. By contrast, the removal rate of BTP using convective processes (mainly hemodiafiltration [HDF]) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) has been little or not investigated. Therefore, an aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of dialysis procedures (high‐flux HD, on‐line post‐dilution HDF and PD) on BTP removal in comparison with beta‐2 microglobulin (B2M) and cystatin C (CYSC) removals after a single session. In addition, the ability of BTP to predict RRF in PD was assessed. This observational cross‐sectional study included a total of 82 stable chronic kidney disease patients, 53 patients were on maintenance dialysis (with n = 26 in HD and n = 27 in HDF) and 29 were on PD. Serum concentrations of BTP, B2M, and CYSC were measured (a) before and after a single dialysis session in HD and HDF anuric patients to calculate reduction percentages, (b) in serum, 24‐hour‐dialysate and 24‐hour‐urine in PD patients to compute total, peritoneal, and urinary clearance. RRF was estimated using four equations developed for dialysis patients without urine collection and compared to the mean of the urea and creatinine clearances in PD. The concentrations of the three studied molecules were significantly reduced (P < .001) after dialysis session with significantly higher reduction ratio using HDF compared to HD modality (P < .001): BTP 49.3% vs 17.5%; B2M 82.3% vs 69.7%; CYSC 77.4% vs 66% in HDF and HD, respectively. In non‐anuric PD patients, B2M and CYSC were partly removed by peritoneal clearance (72.3% and 57.6% for B2M and CYSC, respectively). By contrast, BTP removal by the peritoneum was negligible and a low bias for the BTP‐based equation to estimate RRF (−1.4 mL/min/1.73 m2) was calculated. BTP is significantly removed by high‐flux HD or HDF, thereby compromising its use to estimate RRF. By contrast, BTP appears as a promising biomarker to estimate RRF in PD patients since it is not affected by peritoneal clearance, unlike B2M and CYSC, and it is well correlated to RRF.
Low molecular weight heparin versus unfractioned heparin for anticoagulation during perioperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A single center experience in 102 lung transplant patients
Authors: Gratz Johannes , Pausch André , Schaden Eva , Baierl Andreas , Jaksch Peter , Erhart Friedrich , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Wiegele Marion
Published: January 2020

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is gaining importance in the perioperative management of lung transplant patients. To date, the ideal substance for anticoagulation of ECMO patients is still a matter of debate. In this study, we describe our experience with the use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in comparison with unfractioned heparin (UFH) in lung transplant patients undergoing perioperative ECMO support. We retrospectively analyzed data from all lung transplant patients who underwent perioperative ECMO support at our institution between 2013 and 2017. Bleeding events served as primary outcome parameter. Secondary outcome parameters consisted of thromboembolic events. 102 patients were included in this study, of which 22 (21.6%) received UFH for anticoagulation, and 80 (78.4%) received LMWH. There was no difference between the two groups in regard to serious bleeding events (22.7% in the UFH group vs 12.5% in the LMWH group, P = .31). However, the proportion of patients experiencing thromboembolic events was significantly higher in the UFH group than in the LMWH group (50% vs 20%, P = .01). After adjusting for baseline differences between the two groups, we still observed a difference with respect to thromboembolic events. These data remain to be validated in future prospective, randomized trials.
Simple outlier detection for a multi‐environmental field trial
Authors: Tanaka Emi
Published: January 2020

The aim of plant breeding trials is often to identify crop variety that are well adapt to target environments. These varieties are identified through genomic prediction from the analysis of multi‐environmental field trial (MET) using linear mixed models. The occurrence of outliers in MET is common and known to adversely impact the accuracy of genomic prediction yet the detection of outliers are often neglected. A number of reasons stand for this—first, complex data such as a MET give rise to distinct levels of residuals (eg, at a trial level or individual observation level). This complexity offers additional challenges for an outlier detection method. Second, many linear mixed model software packages that cater for complex variance structures needed in the analysis of MET are not well streamlined for diagnostics by practitioners. We demonstrate outlier detection methods that are simple to implement in any linear mixed model software packages and computationally fast. Although these methods are not optimal methods in outlier detection, they offer practical value for ease of application in the analysis pipeline of regularly collected data. These are demonstrated using simulation based on two real bread wheat yield METs. In particular, models that consider analysis of yield trials either independently or jointly (thus borrowing strength across trials) are considered. Case studies are presented to highlight benefit of joint analysis for outlier detection.
PA‐CRM: A continuous reassessment method for pediatric phase I oncology trials with concurrent adult trials
Authors: Li Yimei , Yuan Ying
Published: January 2020

Pediatric phase I trials are usually carried out after the adult trial testing the same agent has started, but not completed yet. As the pediatric trial progresses, in light of the accrued interim data from the concurrent adult trial, the pediatric protocol often is amended to modify the original pediatric dose escalation design. In practice, this is done frequently in an ad hoc way, interrupting patient accrual and slowing down the trial. We developed a pediatric‐continuous reassessment method (PA‐CRM) to streamline this process, providing a more efficient and rigorous method to find the maximum tolerated dose for pediatric phase I oncology trials. We use a discounted joint likelihood of the adult and pediatric data, with a discount parameter controlling information borrowing between pediatric and adult trials. According to the interim adult and pediatric data, the discount parameter is adaptively updated using the Bayesian model averaging method. Numerical study shows that the PA‐CRM improves the efficiency and accuracy of the pediatric trial and is robust to various model assumptions.
High activation and skewed T cell differentiation are associated with low IL-17A levels in a hu-PBL-NSG-SGM3 mouse model of HIV infection
Authors: Perdomo-Celis F , Medina-Moreno S , Davis H , Bryant J , Taborda N A , Rugeles M T , Kottilil S , Zapata J C
Published: January 2020

The humanized NOD/SCID/IL-2 receptor γ-chainnull (NSG) mouse model has been widely used for the study of HIV pathogenesis. Here, NSG mice with transgenic expression of human stem cell factor (SCF), granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin (IL)-3 (NSG-SGM3) were injected with peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL mice) from two HIV-infected (HIV+) patients who were under anti-retroviral therapy (ART; referred as HIV+ mice) or one HIV-seronegative healthy volunteer (HIV−). Such mice are either hu-PBL-NSG-SGM3 HIV+ or HIV− mice, depending on the source of PBL. The kinetics of HIV replication and T cell responses following engraftment were evaluated in peripheral blood and secondary lymphoid tissues. High HIV replication and low CD4 : CD8 ratios were observed in HIV+ mice in the absence of anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Consistent with high activation and skewed differentiation of T cells from the HIV-infected donor, HIV+ mice exhibited a higher T cell co-expression of human leukocyte antigen D-related (HLA-DR) and CD38 than HIV− mice, as well as a shifted differentiation to a CCR7−CD45RA+ terminal effector profile, even in the presence of ART. In addition, HIV replication and the activation/differentiation disturbances of T cells were associated with decreased plasma levels of IL-17A. Thus, this hu-PBL-NSG-SGM3 mouse model recapitulates some immune disturbances occurring in HIV-infected patients, underlying its potential use for studying pathogenic events during this infection.
Sensitizing fragrances in absorbent hygiene products
Authors: Desmedt Bart , Marcelis Quinten , Zhilivoda Dea , Deconinck Eric
Published: January 2020

Background

Allergenic fragrances are present in a wide range of products but they are not regulated in all industries to the same extent. In Europe, absorbent hygiene products (AHPs) are only covered by the general product safety directive and therefore fragrances can be used freely, whereas in cosmetics and toys the use of these ingredients is regulated.

Method

An analytical method was developed to evaluate the presence of 24 sensitizing fragrances in AHPs. This method allows simultaneous identification and quantification and was validated using the total error approach with an acceptance value of ±15%.

Results

The validated method was applied to evaluate 10 scented AHPs consisting of four tampons, three panty liners, and three sanitary pads. Eight allergenic fragrances were identified in these products and five products contained at least one allergen above 10 μg/g.

Conclusion

The presence of these allergens is not communicated to the consumer. This is, however, a strict requirement in other industries (eg, cosmetics, toys) to ensure adequate consumer protection. Knowing that the exposed area is more susceptible to allergens and irritants, the presence of these allergens should be disclosed.
How feasible are global forest restoration commitments?
Authors: Fagan Matthew E. , Reid J. Leighton , Holland Margaret B. , Drew Justin G. , Zahawi Rakan A.
Published: January 2020

Numerous countries have made voluntary commitments to conduct forest landscape restoration over millions of hectares of degraded land in the coming decade. We consider the relative likelihood these countries will achieve their restoration commitments. Across countries, the area committed to restoration increased with existing forest and plantation area, but was inversely related to development status, with less developed countries pledging more area. Restoration commitments are generally large (median: 2 million hectares) and will be challenging to meet without the wholesale transformation of food production systems. Indeed, one third of countries committed >10% of their land area to restoration (maximum: 81%). Furthermore, high rates of land cover change may reverse gains: a quarter of countries experienced recent deforestation and agricultural expansion that exceeded their restoration commitment area. The limited progress reported by countries, and the sheer scale of commitments, raises serious questions about long‐term success, especially absent necessary monitoring and management plans.
Contrasting Ozark and Great Lakes populations in the endangered Hines emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana) using ecological, genetic, and phylogeographic analyses
Authors: Walker Jane , Mahoney Meredith , Templeton Alan R. , McKenzie Paul , Vogt Timothy E. , Cashatt Everett D. , Smentowski Joseph , Day Richard , Gillespie Robert , Henry Bruce , Wiker James , Braude Stanton , Landwer Brett
Published: January 2020

The federally endangered species Hine's emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana) is found in fens surrounding the Great Lakes region and in a small portion of the Missouri Ozarks. Most previous work has focused on the populations in the Great Lakes region. We present mark/recapture studies and genetic surveys to address the status of the Ozark populations. The densities and genetic diversity tend to be higher in the Ozarks than in the Great Lakes region. A phylogeographic analysis indicates that the Ozarks, with its unglaciated fens, is the likely source for the populations currently inhabiting the formerly glaciated Great Lakes region, and genetic diversity decreases with increasing distance from the Ozarks. This work illustrates the inadequacy of using geography alone to identify a population as marginal and of less conservation concern. We also reanalyzed genetic data on the Great Lakes populations, where several populations have been extirpated over the last several decades. We show that the populations in the Great Lakes region have already lost more than 30% of their genetic diversity over just several decades, and the phylogeographic analysis indicates that increased fragmentation is a possibility in this region due to local extirpations. Ecologically and genetically, the Ozark populations should have a high priority in management plans, and the high rate of loss of genetic diversity and potential fragmentation indicates that continued monitoring and management is needed in the Great Lakes region for this highly endangered dragonfly.
Differentiation of combined nevi and melanomas: Case‐control study with comparative analysis of dermoscopic features
Authors: Schweizer Anissa , Fink Christine , Bertlich Ines , Toberer Ferdinand , Mitteldorf Christina , Stolz Wilhelm , Enk Alexander , Kilian Samuel , Haenssle Holger A.
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives

Combined nevi (CN) show two or more components of major nevus subtypes and simulate melanomas. We investigated a panel of dermoscopic features and three dermoscopic algorithms for differentiating CN from melanomas.

Patients and methods

Retrospective, blinded case‐control study using dermoscopic images of 36 CN and 36 melanoma controls. Twenty‐one dermoscopic features validated for the diagnosis of melanocytic lesions, the number of colors, and three dermoscopic algorithms were investigated (ABCD rule of dermoscopy, Menzies scoring method, 7‐point checklist).

Results

Five of seven features indicative of nevi were observed significantly more frequently in CN than in melanomas (all p < 0.05) and two were exclusively found in CN. Eleven out of 14 features indicative of melanomas were observed significantly more frequently in melanomas than in CN (all p < 0.03) and five were exclusively found in melanomas. The mean (± SD) number of colors in CN was lower than in melanomas (2.1 ± 0.6 versus 3.4 ± 0.7; p < 0.001). Among tested algorithms the ABCD rule of dermoscopy performed best (sensitivity 91.7 %, specificity 77.8 %).

Conclusions

The ABCD rule of dermoscopy differentiated CN from melanomas most efficiently. Additional knowledge of dermoscopic features to be expected exclusively in either CN or melanomas should help dermatologists to make a correct clinical diagnosis.
Distress, quality of life and disability in treatment‐seeking young adults with social anxiety disorder
Authors: Park Shin Ho , Song Yun Ju C. , Demetriou Eleni A. , Pepper Karen L. , Hickie Ian B. , Glozier Nick , Hermens Daniel F. , Scott Elizabeth M. , Guastella Adam J.
Published: January 2020

Aim

This study aimed to: (a) examine whether treatment‐seeking young adults with social anxiety disorder (SAD) demonstrate similar degrees of distress, quality of life (QoL) and disability to those with other mental disorders; and (b) investigate the impact of comorbidity, specific comorbid conditions and antidepressants use on distress, QoL and disability in treatment‐seeking young adults with SAD.

Methods

A cohort of treatment‐seeking young adults (aged 16‐45) diagnosed with SAD (N = 298) or other mental health disorders (N = 842; including depression, N = 349; bipolar, N = 141; psychosis, N = 173) completed self‐report assessments of distress, QoL and disability.

Results

Young adults with SAD showed distress and disability of similar degree to those with most other mental disorders. Specifically, young adults with SAD reported significantly lower QoL than those with major depressive disorder or obsessive‐compulsive disorder. Furthermore, young adults with SAD had the most difficulties in getting along with others and the second highest level of distress in comparison to other psychiatric groups. In comparison to antidepressants use, the presence of comorbidity showed a substantial negative influence on these health outcomes, particularly when presenting with comorbid depression or obsessive‐compulsive disorder.

Conclusions

Findings highlight significant impairments in young adults seeking treatment for SAD and the important moderating influence of comorbidity. This emphasizes the urgent need for effective management and treatment for its presentation and comorbidities in mental health services targeting young adults.
Assessing strategies to enhance soil carbon sequestration with the DSSAT‐CENTURY model
Authors: Nicoloso Rodrigo S. , Amado Telmo J. C. , Rice Charles W.
Published: January 2020

The adoption of no‐till (NT) has been proposed to recover soil organic carbon (SOC), which will aid the mitigation of climate change. However, studies have questioned the potential of NT soils to deliver SOC sequestration and sustain crop yields. No‐till experiments are relatively recent (<50 years) and very few studies were able to assess SOC dynamics in high‐yield agroecosystems. We used the DSSAT‐CENTURY model to predict long‐term SOC (0–30 cm) using datasets from two experiments assessing tillage and nitrogen (N) sources in a Mollisol from the midwest United States (28 years) and tillage and crop rotations in an Oxisol from southern Brazil (33 years). The conversion of prairie and grassland soils to conventional agriculture decreased SOC by 61 and 12% in the Mollisol and Oxisol, respectively. Soil organic C accrual in NT soils was >0.5 Mg C ha−1 year−1 under medium‐low‐yield maize in the Mollisol and negligible in the Oxisol under soybean/wheat rotation. Organic fertilization and crop rotation increased SOC accrual at both sites. Simulated SOC had good agreement with observations for NT soils but overestimated SOC in tilled soils. The model's parameters were then modified for tilled soils. Long‐term simulations (100 years) revealed that SOC accrual in NT soils (0–15 cm) is partially offset by losses at 15–30 cm under low C inputs. Simulations with best crop management practices (BP; irrigation, high‐yield cultivars, higher plant density and improved N fertilization) augmented C inputs and SOC stocks, ultimately recovering SOC to the levels of prairie soils. Our results suggest that the adoption of NT, recycling of organic fertilizers and the use of BP should be further promoted for recovery and permanence of SOC in agricultural soils.

Highlights

Studies have questioned the potential of conservation agriculture (CA) to deliver SOC sequestration and sustain crop yields.

We used the DSSAT‐CENTURY model to simulate SOC dynamics in temperate and subtropical soils.

No‐till under moderate C/N inputs recovered topsoil SOC, but subsurface losses offset SOC accrual.

Use of CA, organic amendments and best practice crop management (BP) is crucial for long‐term SOC storage and permanence.
Social immunity modulates competition between coinfecting pathogens
Authors: Milutinović Barbara , Stock Miriam , Grasse Anna V. , Naderlinger Elisabeth , Hilbe Christian , Cremer Sylvia
Published: January 2020

Coinfections with multiple pathogens can result in complex within‐host dynamics affecting virulence and transmission. While multiple infections are intensively studied in solitary hosts, it is so far unresolved how social host interactions interfere with pathogen competition, and if this depends on coinfection diversity. We studied how the collective disease defences of ants – their social immunity – influence pathogen competition in coinfections of same or different fungal pathogen species. Social immunity reduced virulence for all pathogen combinations, but interfered with spore production only in different‐species coinfections. Here, it decreased overall pathogen sporulation success while increasing co‐sporulation on individual cadavers and maintaining a higher pathogen diversity at the community level. Mathematical modelling revealed that host sanitary care alone can modulate competitive outcomes between pathogens, giving advantage to fast‐germinating, thus less grooming‐sensitive ones. Host social interactions can hence modulate infection dynamics in coinfected group members, thereby altering pathogen communities at the host level and population level.
REVEALED PREFERENCE AND ACTIVITY RULES IN DYNAMIC AUCTIONS
Authors: Ausubel Lawrence M. , Baranov Oleg
Published: January 2020

Activity rules—constraints that limit bidding in future rounds based on past bids—are intended to limit strategic bidding delays in high‐stakes auctions. This article provides a general treatment of activity rules. Traditional point‐based rules are effective for homogeneous goods and reasonably suited for substitute goods. However, they are simultaneously too strong and too weak for general environments; they allow parking, while sometimes preventing straightforward bidding. We prove that the activity rule operationalizing the generalized axiom of revealed preference (GARP) is essentially the unique rule that enforces the Law of Demand while enabling straightforward bidding and never producing “dead ends.”
Drought effects on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) fibre quality and fibre sucrose metabolism during the flowering and boll‐formation period
Authors: Gao Min , Snider John L. , Bai Hua , Hu Wei , Wang Rui , Meng Yali , Wang Youhua , Chen Binglin , Zhou Zhiguo
Published: January 2020

The cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) crop is an indeterminate species that is most sensitive to drought stress during the flowering and boll‐formation stage of development. To evaluate the effect of water deficit on fibre quality and carbon metabolism at different fruiting branches (FB), multiple controlled experiments were conducted. The cotton cultivar Siza 3 was used under three soil relative water content (SRWC): control (CK, SRWC (75 ± 5) %), moderate drought stress (MDS, SRWC (60 ± 5) %) and severe drought stress (SDS, SRWC (45 ± 5) %) treatment, imposed at the beginning of the flowering of FB6–7. Fibre quality was significantly affected by drought level and fruiting branch location on the plant. Compared to the CK, under MDS and SDS, sucrose content and sucrose synthase (SuSy) activity decreased prior to 24 days post‐anthesis (DPA; the fibre elongation phase), which caused low fibre turgor pressure. This decreased the rate of fibre elongation and final fibre length. Moreover, from 24 to 38 DPA (during fibre thickening), low fibre sucrose content led to insufficient UDP‐glucose (UDPG; uridine diphosphate glucose) for cellulose synthesis. Furthermore, more of the existing UDPG was allocated to the synthesis of callose instead of cellulose, which resulted in lower cellulose accumulation and decreased fibre strength. The magnitude of the drought stress effect on fibre qualities, as well as the formation process, was strongly influenced by fruiting branch position, where differences were most pronounced for fruiting branches further away from the base of the plant.
Efficacy of mind–body therapies and exercise‐based interventions on menopausal‐related outcomes among Asian perimenopause women: A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and synthesis without a meta‐analysis
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Ang Lina , Lau Ying
Published: January 2020

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy of exercise‐based interventions and mind–body therapies on quality of life, menopausal symptoms, and depression among Asian perimenopausal women.

Design

A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and synthesis without meta‐analysis (SWiM).

Data sources

Six electronic databases were systematically searched: PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and ProQuest.

Review methods

The point of inception of each database to 15 November 2018 were systematically searched. A meta‐analysis and SWiM were used to present the results. Review Manager 5.3 and The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool were used for meta‐analyses and assessing of risk of bias, respectively.

Results

In all, 23 studies were reviewed. Significant effects in exercise‐based interventions and mind–body therapies were found for quality of life, menopausal symptoms, and depression but not for hot flashes. Limitations of this review include insufficient blinding of participants and/or researchers found in most of the included studies and high levels of heterogeneity in the meta‐analyses. Evidence found in this review is to be interpreted with caution.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals can consider exercise‐based interventions or mind–body therapies to manage menopausal symptoms. Future trials of good quality can examine the cost‐effectiveness and optimal intervention duration. Intervention effects on specific menopausal symptoms such as sleeplessness in Asia can be examined in future.

Impact

Exercise‐based interventions and mind–body therapies suggest effectiveness on quality of life, menopausal symptoms, and depression among Asian perimenopausal women. Exercise‐based interventions and mind–body therapies improve quality of life, menopausal symptoms, and depression but not hot flashes. Long‐term exercise‐based interventions is effective in managing depression. Due to varied limitations in the review and included studies, firm conclusions cannot be reached. Healthcare professionals in Asia can consider implementing exercise‐based interventions and mind–body therapies for symptomatic perimenopausal Asian women.
Reciprocal links between anxiety sensitivity and obsessive–compulsive symptoms in youth: a longitudinal twin study
Authors: Krebs G. , Hannigan L.J. , Gregory A.M. , Rijsdijk F.V. , Eley T.C.
Published: January 2020

Background

Anxiety sensitivity, the tendency to fear the symptoms of anxiety, is a key risk factor for the development anxiety disorders. Although obsessive–compulsive disorder was previously classified as an anxiety disorder, the prospective relationship between anxiety sensitivity and obsessive–compulsive symptoms (OCS) has been largely overlooked. Furthermore, a lack of genetically informative studies means the aetiology of the link between anxiety sensitivity and OCS remains unclear.

Methods

Adolescent twins and siblings (N = 1,579) from the G1219 study completed self‐report questionnaires two years apart assessing anxiety sensitivity, OCS, anxiety and depression. Linear regression models tested prospective associations between anxiety sensitivity and OCS, with and without adjustment for anxiety and depressive symptoms. A phenotypic cross‐lagged model assessed bidirectional influences between anxiety sensitivity and OCS over time, and a genetic version of this model examined the aetiology of these associations.

Results

Anxiety sensitivity was prospectively associated with changes in OCS, even after controlling for comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms. The longitudinal relationship between anxiety sensitivity and OCS was bidirectional, and these associations were predominantly accounted for by nonshared environmental influences.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with the notion that anxiety sensitivity is a risk factor for OCS during adolescence, but also suggest that experiencing OCS confers risk for heightened anxiety sensitivity. The reciprocal links between OCS and anxiety sensitivity over time are likely to be largely mediated by nonshared environmental experiences, as opposed to common genes. Our findings raise the possibility that interventions aimed at ameliorating anxiety sensitivity could reduce risk for OCS, and vice versa.
Harmonizing behavioral outcomes across studies, raters, and countries: application to the genetic analysis of aggression in the ACTION Consortium
Authors: Luningham Justin M. , Hendriks Anne M. , Krapohl Eva , Fung Ip Hill , van Beijsterveldt Catharina E.M. , Lundström Sebastian , Vuoksimaa Eero , Korhonen Tellervo , Lichtenstein Paul , Plomin Robert , Pulkkinen Lea , Rose Richard J. , Kaprio Jaakko , Bartels Meike , Boomsma Dorret I. , Lubke Gitta H.
Published: January 2020

Background

Aggression in children has genetic and environmental causes. Studies of aggression can pool existing datasets to include more complex models of social effects. Such analyses require large datasets with harmonized outcome measures. Here, we made use of a reference panel for phenotype data to harmonize multiple aggression measures in school‐aged children to jointly analyze data from five large twin cohorts.

Methods

Individual level aggression data on 86,559 children (42,468 twin pairs) were available in five European twin cohorts measured by different instruments. A phenotypic reference panel was collected which enabled a model‐based phenotype harmonization approach. A bi‐factor integration model in the integrative data analysis framework was developed to model aggression across studies while adjusting for rater, age, and sex. Finally, harmonized aggression scores were analyzed to estimate contributions of genes, environment, and social interaction to aggression. The large sample size allowed adequate power to test for sibling interaction effects, with unique dynamics permitted for opposite‐sex twins.

Results

The best‐fitting model found a high level of overall heritability of aggression (~60%). Different heritability rates of aggression across sex were marginally significant, with heritability estimates in boys of ~64% and ~58% in girls. Sibling interaction effects were only significant in the opposite‐sex twin pairs: the interaction effect of males on their female co‐twin differed from the effect of females on their male co‐twin. An aggressive female had a positive effect on male co‐twin aggression, whereas more aggression in males had a negative influence on a female co‐twin.

Conclusions

Opposite‐sex twins displayed unique social dynamics of aggressive behaviors in a joint analysis of a large, multinational dataset. The integrative data analysis framework, applied in combination with a reference panel, has the potential to elucidate broad, generalizable results in the investigation of common psychological traits in children.
Development and testing of a double‐action cassava grater with an automated contact plate
Authors: Umani Kingsley C. , Ituen Etim U. U. , Fakayode Olugbenga A.
Published: January 2020

Cassava grating is a size reduction process that converts peeled cassava tubers into cassava mash. Grating cassava tubers using the conventional graters makes the process tedious and labor‐intensive. Thus, a double‐action cassava grating machine with an automated contact plate was developed, and the machine performance was evaluated. A 3 × 5 central composite rotatable design (CCRD) of response surface methodology (
RSM) was adopted for the performance test experiments. The machine parameters are grating speeds,
g
s (765, 865, and 965 rpm), conveying time,
c
t (7.37, 5.84, 4.40, 3.00, and 1.69 s); (6.67, 5.00, 3.55, 2.40, and 1.19 s); and (5.97, 4.38, 3.19, 2.00, and 0.97 s) at 765, 865, and 965 rpm respectively; and the contact plate control timing,
cpct (5.85, 11.91, 17.16, 26.69, and 30.44 s) were selected. The throughput (
TP) and grating efficiency (
GE) were determined. Data analysis was carried out using multiple linear regressions at
α = 0.05. Maximum
TP of 26.64 kg/hr was obtained at
g
s (965 rpm),
c
t (3.19 s), and
t
scp (5.85 s), while maximum
GE of 74.25% was obtained at
g
s (765 rpm),
c
t (4.40 s), and
t
scp (17.16 s).
TP increased with an increase in
g
s, but decreased with an increase in
c
pct and
c
t. Hence, the developed cassava grating machine is a viable option to large scale cassava processors due to the ease of operation, less processing time, and less man‐power demand as a result of machine automation.

Practical Applications

Despite a considerable improvement in the advancement of machines for grating cassava tubers, there is still some tedious activities experienced during the process of cassava grating. To this end, there is a need for innovation of technological application in cassava grating. Thus, a double‐action cassava grater with automated contact plate capable of integrating several operations involved in cassava grating and finishing in one pass was developed, and the performance was evaluated. CCRD of RSM was employed to design the experiment to evaluate the effects of the machine operating parameters on the performance of the cassava grating system based on the machine throughput and grating efficiency. The developed cassava grating system will be a useful option for large‐scale cassava processing due to the continuous grating operation achieve in the machine, which is suitable for cassava processing industry where the large scale of cassava tubers is being processed.
Numerical modeling of granular flow in star valve type cryogenic precooler
Authors: Ghodki Bhupendra M , Chhetri Krishna Bahadur , Goswami Tridib Kumar
Published: January 2020

Cryogenic precooler/precooler is the essential component of a cryogenic grinding system that removes the desired amount of heat from a sample with the aid of a cryogen such that brittle type of failure occurs during grinding. Nevertheless, the understanding of particle dynamics, heat transfer phenomena, and optimal cryo‐grinding condition are obligatory to lower the operational cost and scaling up the findings. Therefore, the present study aims to model three‐dimensional dynamic flow behavior of black pepper seeds in star valve type precooler using discrete element method (DEM). The Hertz‐Mindlin contact model was utilized to simulate the granular flow profile of the seeds. The DEM simulation results of flow pattern and volumetric fill level of bulk granules in different sections (feed, mid, and discharge) of precooler were in line with the results of the experimental approach. Overall, DEM modeling provided a better insight into particle‐scale flow dynamics in precooler.

Practical applications

Cryogenic grinding technique is widely preferred to obtain high‐quality spices powder owing to maximal retention of thermo‐sensitive flavoring components compared to conventional counterpart. The inefficient utilization of cryogen and granular flow issues results in higher operational cost of cryo‐ground spices powder. Thus, the finding of granular flow characteristics of black pepper in cryogenic precooler may aid in improving the design of precooler as well as efficient utilization of the costly cryogen. Overall, these would help in producing high‐quality of spices powder at an affordable cost.
Antiviral activity of interferon‐stimulated gene 20, as a putative repressor binding to hepatitis B virus enhancer II and core promoter
Authors: Park Yong Kwang , Lee Sun Young , Lee Ah Ram , Kim Kyung‐Chang , Kim Kisoon , Kim Kyun‐Hwan , Choi Byeong‐Sun
Published: January 2020

Background and Aim

Interferon‐stimulated gene 20 (ISG20) is an interferon‐inducible exonuclease that inhibits the replication of several RNA viruses. In patients with chronic hepatitis B, ISG20 expression is related to the interferon‐α treatment response. However, the molecular mechanism of ISG20‐mediated anti‐hepatitis B virus (HBV) activity is unclear.

Methods

We have investigated the effect of ISG20 on antiviral activity to address that. The life cycle of HBV was analyzed by the ectopic expression of ISG20 in HepG2 and HepG2‐NTCP cells. Finally, to provide physiological relevance of our study, the expression of ISG20 from chronic hepatitis B patients was examined.

Results

Interferon‐stimulated gene 20 was mainly induced by interferon‐β and dramatically inhibited HBV replication. In addition, ISG20 decreased HBV gene expression and transcription. Although ISG20 inhibited HBV replication by reducing viral enhancer activity, the expression of transcription factors that bind the HBV enhancer was not affected. Particularly, ISG20 suppressed HBV enhancer activity by binding to the enhancer II and core promoter (EnhII/Cp) region.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ISG20 exerts the anti‐HBV activity by acting as a putative repressor binding to the HBV EnhII/Cp region.
Cultivating Alternatives to Authoritarian Populism in Amazonia
Authors: Rojas David , Olival Alexandre de Azevedo , Olival Andrezza Alves Spexoto
Published: January 2020

Um movimento de extrema direita que promete refazer as políticas rurais para beneficiar uma minoria de “produtores” conquistou a presidência do Brasil em 2018 com o apoio da maioria do eleitorado do sul da Amazônia. Lá, por muito tempo as elites políticas argumentaram que os produtores são representantes do interesse nacional. Esse argumento é uma questão multiespécies na medida em que “produtores” só podem argumentar que são “o povo” porque tem capturado as capacidades geradoras de ecologias de monocultura. E se agendas de extrema direita florescem em monoculturas, ecologias diversas podem abrir alternativas ao populismo autoritário. Examinamos um programa de agroecologia em que os camponeses fortalecem os laços de solidariedade entre eles estabelecendo relações mutualistas com sementes, solos e plantas nativas. Alternativas ao populismo autoritário podem ser cultivadas em lutas multiespécies pela terra nas quais forças humanas e não‐humanas convergem num esforço para compor ecologias hospitaleiras e inclusivas. [Populismo, autoritarismo, multiespécie, Amazônia, Brasil]
Trends of children being given advice for dental checkups and having a dental visit in the United States: 2001–2016
Authors: Luo Huabin , I. Garcia Raul , Moss Mark E. , Bell Ronny A. , Wright Wanda , Wu Bei
Published: January 2020

Introduction

The objectives of this study were to describe trends of children being given dental checkup advice by primary care providers (PCPs) and having dental visits and to assess factors associated with being given dental checkup advice and having a dental visit.

Methods

Data were from the annual, cross‐sectional Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) from 2001 to 2016. The sample included 126,773 children ages 2–17 years. We used predictive margins to estimate the probability of being given dental checkup advice and having a dental visit. We examined time trends of the proportion of children being given dental checkup advice from PCPs, as well as trends in the proportion of children having a dental visit from 2001 to 2016. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess the association between being given dental checkup advice and having a dental visit.

Results

Overall, the proportion of children being given dental checkup advice increased from 31.4% in 2001 to 51.8% in 2016 (Trend P < 0.001). No significant increasing trend was found for having a dental visit among those being given dental checkup advice (Trend P > 0.05). Children being given dental checkup advice were more likely to have a dental visit (AOR = 1.54, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although there was an increase in the proportion of children being given advice to have dental checkups by PCPs from 2001 to 2016, there was no significant increase in having a dental visit among children being given the advice. More research is needed to better understand how dental care advice from a PCP can effectively motivate and facilitate dental care for children.
Investigation on the variation of chemical composition and in vitro nutritive value of spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta) for ruminants
Authors: Sommerfeld Vera , Steingaß Herbert , Longin C. Friedrich H. , Rodehutscord Markus
Published: January 2020

Spelt has gained growing interest in Europe in human and animal nutrition. Data on the chemical composition of spelt and its variations, especially their nutritional value for ruminants, are scarce. Therefore, hulled kernels, dehulled kernels and hulls of six spelt cultivars grown on three different locations were analysed for their chemical composition and nutritive value for ruminants using the Hohenheim Gas Test. Most of the analysed constituents varied considerably and were significantly affected by the cultivars or location, or both. Hulled spelt and spelt kernels of more recent cultivars had higher starch and energy concentrations and lower concentrations of crude protein and fibre fractions than those of traditional cultivars. Significant differences between cultivars were found in the energy values for ruminants for hulled spelt but not for fractionated kernels. Spelt hulls of different cultivars and locations showed a high variation in chemical composition with overall high concentrations of fibre fractions and crude ash. The nutritive values for ruminants of hulled spelt and spelt kernels were similar to those of oats and wheat respectively. Pure spelt hulls cannot be recommended for use in ruminant feeding because of their high concentrations of fibre fractions and crude ash. However, when some part of the kernel (~20%) or small kernels remain with the hull in the dehulling process, the resulting hull fraction has a metabolizable energy value for ruminants that is similar to that of wheat straw.
Co‐administration of multiple intravenous medicines: Intensive care nurses' views and perspectives
Authors: Oduyale Mosopefoluwa S. , Patel Nilesh , Borthwick Mark , Claus Sandrine
Published: January 2020

Background

Co‐administration of multiple intravenous (IV) medicines down the same lumen of an IV catheter is often necessary in the intensive care unit (ICU) while ensuring medicine compatibility.

Aims and objectives

This study explores ICU nurses' views on the everyday practice surrounding co‐administration of multiple IV medicines down the same lumen.

Design

Qualitative study using focus group interviews.

Methods

Three focus groups were conducted with 20 ICU nurses across two hospitals in the Thames Valley Critical Care Network, England. Participants' experience of co‐administration down the same lumen and means of assessing compatibility were explored. All focus groups were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis. Functional Resonance Analysis Method was used to provide a visual representation of the co‐administration process.

Results

Two key themes were identified as essential during the process of co‐administration, namely, venous access and resources. Most nurses described insufficient venous access and lack of compatibility data for commonly used medicines (eg, analgesics and antibiotics) as particular challenges. Strategies such as obtaining additional venous access, prioritizing infusions, and swapping line of infusion were used to manage IV administration problems where medicines were incompatible, or of unknown or variable compatibility.

Conclusions

Nurses use several workarounds to manage commonly encountered medication compatibility problems that may lead to delays in therapy. Organizations should review and tailor compatibility resources towards commonly administered medicines using an interdisciplinary approach. Developing a clinical decision‐making pathway to minimise variability while promoting safe co‐administration practice should be prioritised.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlights several ways ICU nurses are able to manage challenges associated with co‐administration and the need for the development of a more robust and comprehensive compatibility resource that is relevant to everyday practice through collaboration between nurses and pharmacists.
Morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization of Oscillatoria kawamurae (Oscillatoriales, Cyanobacteria) isolated from different geographical regions
Authors: Thu Nanda Kyaw , Tanabe Yuuhiko , Matsuura Hiroshi , Watanabe Makoto M.
Published: January 2020

Oscillatoria kawamurae is an unusual freshwater cyanobacterium because of its large trichome and ambiguous gas vacuole. Because little is known about its phenotypic or genotypic characteristics, this study conducted morphological, biochemical, and genetic characterization of O. kawamurae strains isolated from Japan, Laos, and Myanmar. All strains displayed similar morphological characteristics; however some differences were observed in vegetative cell widths, trichome colors, and the distribution patterns of their gas vacuole‐like structures. The in vivo and phycobiliprotein absorption spectra revealed the two different trichome colors found in the four representative strains of O. kawamurae (Inle1, Lao7, Biwa6, and Inba3). These different trichome colors corresponded to the different ratios of phycoerythrin and phycocyanin, the two types of phycobilin pigments: 0.25 for olive‐green strain (Inle1) and 0.65–0.73 for brown‐green strains (Biwa6, Inba3, and Lao7). Cellular fatty acid compositions of the four strains were C14:0, C15:0, C16:0, C16:1c, C17:0, C18:0, C18:1c, C18:3α and C18:4, whereas two strains (Biwa6 and Inba3) lacked C17:0. Of the fatty acids, palmitic acid (C16:0) was predominant. PCR experiments using primers targeting a gas vesicle gene (gvpA) recovered gvpA fragments from all O. kawamurae strains, suggesting that this species has true gas vacuoles. The 16S rDNA sequences of all of the strains were identical regardless of their different trichome colors and/or geographic origins. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rDNA sequences indicated that O. kawamurae forms a monophyletic clade with O. princeps CCALA 1115 clB1 and O. duplisecta ETS‐06. We discuss the taxonomy of O. kawamurae based on the data obtained in this study.
Tyrosine phosphorylation is not a relevant mechanism to modulate aquaporin 2 activity in gestational queen endometrium and placenta
Authors: Ferré‐Dolcet Lluis , Rodríguez‐Gil Joan Enric , Yeste Marc , Rigau Teresa , Rivera del Alamo Maria Montserrat
Published: January 2020

Aquaporins have been shown to be regulated by phosphorylation of serine residues, but the possible role of tyrosine residues phosphorylation has not been evaluated. Changes in the localization of aquaporin 2 (AQP2) in the queen endometrium have been related to serum progesterone levels. The aim of this study was to determine whether these AQP2‐localization changes are mediated by variations in its tyrosine phosphorylation levels. Twelve queens were included in the study and divided into (a) non‐macroscopically pregnant with low levels of progesterone; (b) non‐macroscopically pregnant with high levels of progesterone; (c) 30 days of pregnancy; and (d) 60 days of pregnancy. Samples from endometrium and placental transference zone were obtained, immunoprecipitated and analysed by immunoblotting to determine the abundance of AQP2 and its relative levels of tyrosine phosphorylation. No significant differences in the tyrosine phosphorylation levels of immunoprecipated‐AQP2 were observed between groups. We can thus conclude that changes in the localization of AQP2 in the queen endometrium are not modulated by tyrosine phosphorylation.