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The national food consumption survey on the adult population in Poland was conducted from August 2019 to February 2020 and was funded by EFSA under the EU Menu project. It aimed at collecting food consumption data of a representative sample of adolescents, adults and elderly living in Poland and followed the EFSA EU Menu methodology. Altogether 4,249 subjects aged 10 to ≥75 years old were invited to participate in the study out of which participants were 2,432 individuals with a response rate of 57%. Two additional ad hoc groups of 300 vegetarians aged 18‐50 years old and 150 pregnant women were also recruited. After verifying the collected data, EFSA accepted the data from 2385 subjects (1196 men, 1189 women) in the main group, 246 subjects (118 men, 128 women) in the group of vegetarians and 145 subjects in the group of pregnant women. Data on food consumption was collected by means of two non‐consecutive days through a web‐based 24‐hour dietary recall method. In addition, a food propensity questionnaire was used. Anthropometric measurements of height, weight, waist, and hip circumferences were made to assess the nutritional status of the participants. The level of physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Before the main study the pilot study was conducted for verifying the feasibility of the study organization. The collected data will be used to update the Comprehensive European Food Consumption Database which is regulated and administered by the EFSA. The results will allow the evaluation of diet and nutritional status of adolescents and adults in Poland, including the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The national food consumption survey on the children population in Poland was conducted from August 2019 to February 2020 and was funded by EFSA under the EU Menu project. It aimed at collecting food consumption data of a representative sample of children living in Poland and followed the EFSA EU Menu methodology. Altogether 2605 subjects aged three months to nine years old were invited to participate in the study out of which participants were 1,574 children (780 boys and 794 girls) with a response rate of 60%. An additional group of 300 vegetarians aged six to nine years old was also recruited. After verifying the collected data, EFSA accepted the data from 1565 subjects (777 boys, 788 girls) in the main group and 294 subjects (147 boys, 147 girls) in the group of vegetarians. Data on food consumption was collected by means of two non‐consecutive food dietary record method using a web‐based tool intended for 24‐hour dietary recall method. In addition, a food propensity questionnaire was used. Anthropometric measurements of height, weight, waist and hip circumferences were made to assess the nutritional status of the participants. The level of physical activity was assessed with a short questionnaire, using questions from HBSC (Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children) Polish Study. Before the main study the pilot study was conducted for verifying the feasibility of the study organization. The collected data will be used to update the Comprehensive European Food Consumption Database, which is regulated and administered by EFSA. The results will allow the evaluation of diet and nutritional status of children in Poland, including the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim to combine more than one biologically‐active component in a single molecule, derivatives of ispinesib and its (S) analogue were prepared that featured ferrocenyl moieties or bulky organic substituents. Inspired by the strong kinesin spindle protein (KSP) inhibitory activity of ispinesib, the compounds were investigated for their antiproliferative activity. Among these compounds, several derivatives demonstrated significantly higher antiproliferative activity than ispinesib with nanomolar IC50 values against cell lines. Further evaluation indicated that the antiproliferative activity is not directly correlated with their KSP inhibitory activity while docking suggested that several of the derivatives may bind in a manner similar to ispinesib. In order to investigate the mode of action further, cell cycle analysis and reactive oxygen species formation were investigated. The improved antiproliferative activity of the most active compounds may be assigned to synergic effects of various factors such as KSP inhibitory activity due to the ispinesib core and ability to generate ROS and induce mitotic arrest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Society for Birth Defects Research and Prevention (BDRP) strives to understand and protect against potential hazards to developing embryos, fetuses, children, and adults by bringing together scientific knowledge from diverse fields. The theme of 62nd Annual Meeting of BDRP, "From Bench to Bedside and Back Again", represented the cutting‐edge research areas of high relevance to public health and significance in the fields of birth defects research and surveillance. The multidisciplinary Research Needs Workshop (RNW) convened at the Annual Meeting continues to identify pressing knowledge gaps and encourage interdisciplinary research initiatives. The multidisciplinary RNW was first introduced at the 2018 annual meeting to provide an opportunity for annual meeting attendees to participate in breakout discussions on emerging topics in birth defects research and to foster collaboration between basic researchers, clinicians, epidemiologists, drug developers, industry partners, funding agencies, and regulators to discuss state‐of‐the‐art methods and innovative projects. Initially, a list of workshop topics was compiled by the RNW planning committee and circulated among the members of BDRP to obtain the most popular topics for the Workshop discussions. Based on the pre‐meeting survey results, the top three discussion topics selected were, A) Inclusion of pregnant and lactating women in clinical trials. When, why, and how? B) Building multidisciplinary teams across disciplines: What cross‐training is needed? And C) Challenges in applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning for risk factor analysis in birth defects research. This report summarizes the key highlights of the RNW workshop and specific topic discussions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Traditionally, data regarding thyroidectomy were extracted from billing databases, but information may be missed. In this study, a multi-institutional pediatric thyroidectomy database was used to evaluate recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury and hypoparathyroidism. Study Design: Retrospective multi-institutional cohort study. Setting: Tertiary care pediatric hospital systems throughout North America. Methods: Data were individually collected for thyroidectomies, then entered into a centralized database and analyzed using univariate and multivariable regression models. Results: In total, 1025 thyroidectomies from 10 institutions were included. Average age was 13.9 years, and 77.8% were female. Average hospital stay was 1.9 nights and 13.5% of patients spent at least 1 night in the pediatric intensive care unit. The most frequent pathology was papillary thyroid carcinoma (42%), followed by Graves' disease (20.1%) and follicular adenoma (18.2%). Overall, 1.1% of patients experienced RLN injury (0.8% permanent), and 7.2% experienced hypoparathyroidism (3.3% permanent). Lower institutional volume (odds ratio [OR], 3.57; 95% CI, 1.72-7.14) and concurrent hypoparathyroidism (OR, 3.51; 95% CI, 1.64-7.53) correlated with RLN injury on multivariable analysis. Graves' disease (OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.35-3.80), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (OR, 4.67; 95% CI, 2.39-9.09), central neck dissection (OR, 3.60; 95% CI, 2.36-5.49), and total vs partial thyroidectomy (OR, 7.14; 95% CI, 4.55-11.11) correlated with hypoparathyroidism. Conclusion: These data present thyroidectomy information and complications pertinent to surgeons, along with preoperative risk factor assessment. Multivariable analysis showed institutional volume and hypoparathyroidism associated with RLN injury, while hypoparathyroidism associated with surgical indication, central neck dissection, and extent of surgery. Low complication rates support the safety of thyroidectomy in pediatric tertiary care centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children without asthma symptoms, and any antiasthma treatment during last year, including fall-winter season 2020, were defined as I patients without asthma symptoms i (Figure 1C). In the fall-winter 2020 season, asthma symptoms and/or antiasthma therapy were reported in 31(27.9%) children (Figure 1C). [Extracted from the article]

How do social identities contribute to the formation of coalitions in a policy subsystem? Social identities help to understand the bundling of resources and common strategies for action. Thus, we argue that identification with a group and across groups discursively results in the formulation of shared and competing storylines. As coalitions are characterized by some kind of sameness of their actors which results in shared storylines, we thereby postulate that the link between storylines and social identities provides added value to the explanation of coalition formation. We test whether shared storylines can be traced back to social identities in the different discursive periods of traffic development on a local level in Germany. A media analysis of 110 articles and 14 interviews shows that the assignment of certain group characteristics is discursively confirmed, renegotiated, or rejected. Social identities, therefore, matter for coalition formation. Related Articles: Chang, Katherine T., and Elizabeth A. Koebele. 2020. "What Drives Coalitions' Narrative Strategy? Exploring Policy Narratives around School Choice." Politics & Policy 48 (4): 618‐657. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12367 Shanahan, Elizabeth A., Mark K. McBeth, and Paul L. Hathaway. 2011. "Narrative Policy Framework: The Influence of Media Policy Narrative on Public Opinion." Politics & Policy 39 (3): 373‐400. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00295.x Vercesi, Michelangelo. 2016. "Coalition Politics and Inter‐Party Conflict Management: A Theoretical Framework." Politics & Policy 44 (2): 168‐219. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12154 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To see if three‐dimensional (3D) methods could bring new understanding to acetabular changes in shape and orientation in the spastic hip and in which direction(s) acetabular orientation might change, which is crucial for planning appropriate hip correction surgery. Method: We performed a retrospective study of pelvic computed tomography (CT) examinations in 20 consecutive patients (10 females, 10 males). The mean age of patients was 12 years 9 months (SD 2y; range: 9–16y) at the time of the CT examination. The control group consisted of 18 consecutive pelvic CT examinations (36 acetabula) of deceased individuals (six females, 12 males) aged 4 to 17 years (mean age: 10y 6mo; SD 5y 2mo) whose whole‐body CT scans were taken shortly after their death. We compared 3D CT reconstructions of 28 unstable and dislocated hips in children with bilateral cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V) with the unaffected side and typically developing controls to assess spatial orientation (inclination, anteversion, and tilt), acetabular volume, and surface area. Additionally, we analysed the multiple factors that may lead to structural and spatial changes of the acetabulum. Results: Patients with dislocated and spastic hips had significantly lower anteversion (−3.2° and −1.4° respectively, p<0.001), increased inclination (85.2° and 85.3° respectively, p<0.001), and decreased tilt (24.6° [p=0.014] and 20.7° [p=0.013] respectively) compared with typically developing individuals. Regarding acetabular volume and surface area, dislocated and unstable hips had significantly lower volume (17.6ml vs 31.5ml respectively, p<0.001) and surface area (28.9cm2 vs 36.2cm2 respectively, p<0.001) than unaffected hips. Among several factors, only Reimer's migration index had an influence on acetabular orientation (i.e. anteversion, p=0.01), volume (p<0.001), and surface (p=0.004). Interpretation: Acetabula in patients with spastic hip disease were severely retroverted with increased steepness; acetabular orientation was distorted superoposteriorly. In rare cases, acetabular orientation was distorted only superiorly or superoanteriorly. What this paper adds: Acetabular orientation was distorted superoposteriorly in most patients with severe bilateral cerebral palsy.More pronounced acetabular changes were found in hips with a higher Reimer's migration index. What this paper adds: Acetabular orientation was distorted superoposteriorly in most patients with severe bilateral cerebral palsy.More pronounced acetabular changes were found in hips with a higher Reimer's migration index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two series of the ferrocenyl and ruthenocenyl analogues of etoposide bearing 1,2,3‐triazolyl or aminoalkyl linker were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic properties, influence on the cell cycle, ability to induce tubulin polymerization, and inhibition of topoisomerase II activity. We found that the replacement of the etoposide carbohydrate moiety with a metallocenyl group led to organometallic conjugates exhibiting differentiated antiproliferative activity. Biological studies demonstrated that two ferrocenylalkylamino conjugates were notably more active than etoposide, with submicromolar or low‐micromolar IC50 values towards SW620, etoposide‐resistant SW620E, and methotrexate‐resistant SW620M cancer cell lines. Moreover, the simplest ferrocenylmethylamino conjugate exerted dual inhibitory action against tubulin polymerization and topoisomerase II activity while other studied compounds affected only topoisomerase II activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Innate immunity response to local dysbiosis seems to be one of the most important immunologic backgrounds of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and concomitant asthma. We aimed to assess clinical determinants of upper‐airway dysbiosis and its effect on nasal inflammatory profile and asthma risk in young children with CRS. Methods: We recruited one hundred and thirty‐three children, aged 4‐8 years with doctor‐diagnosed CRS with or without asthma. The following procedures were performed in all participants: face‐to‐face standardized Sinus and Nasal Quality of Life questionnaire, skin prick test, taste perception testing, nasopharynx swab, and sampling of the nasal mucosa. Upper‐airway dysbiosis was defined separately by asthma‐specific microbiome composition and reduced biodiversity. Multivariate methods were used to define the risk factors for asthma and upper‐airway dysbiosis and their specific inflammatory profile of nasal mucosa. Results: The asthma‐specific upper‐airway microbiome composition reflected by the decreased ratio of Patescibacteria/Actinobacteria independently of atopy increased the risk of asthma (OR:8.32; 95%CI: 2.93‐23.6). This asthma‐specific microbiome composition was associated with ≥ 7/week sweet consumption (OR:2.64; 95%C:1.11‐6.28), reduced biodiversity (OR:3.83; 95%CI:1.65‐8.87), the presence of Staphylococcus strains in the nasopharynx (OR:4.25; 95%CI:1.12‐16.1), and lower expression of beta‐defensin 2, IL‐5, and IL‐13 in the nasal mucosa. The reduced biodiversity was associated with frequent antibiotic use and with a higher nasal expression of IL‐17 and T1R3 (sweet taste receptor). In asthmatic children, reduced sweet taste perception was observed. Conclusions: Specific upper‐airway dysbiosis related to frequent sweet consumption, frequent antibiotic courses, and altered nasal immune function increases the risk of asthma in young children with CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, endoscopic examination is a diagnostic tool gaining popularity in the management of gastrointestinal disorders in dogs and cats. Direct accessibility of the lumen of gastrointestinal tract combined with the mucosal biopsy provides a great diagnostic potential. Using endoscopy and endoscopically guided biopsy, one can conduct both macro- and microscopic assessment of lesions and perform many specialist adjunct examinations. Histopathological examination of mucosal biopsy specimens collected from the stomach and intestines allows us to distinguish between types of inflammations and to diagnose ulcerative, polypoid, and cancerous lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Heterogeneity of infection and extreme shedding patterns are common features of animal infectious diseases. Individual hosts that are super‐shedders are key targets for control strategies. Nevertheless, the mechanisms associated with the emergence of super‐shedders remain largely unknown. During chicken salmonellosis, a high heterogeneity of infection is observed when animal‐to‐animal cross‐contaminations and reinfections are reduced. We hypothesized that unlike super‐shedders, low‐shedders would be able to block the first Salmonella colonization thanks to a different gut microbiota. The present study demonstrates that (i) axenic and antibiotic‐treated chicks are more prone to become super‐shedders; (ii) super or low‐shedder phenotypes can be acquired through microbiota transfer; (iii) specific gut microbiota taxonomic features determine whether the chicks develop a low‐ and super‐shedder phenotype after Salmonella infection in isolator; (iv) partial protection can be conferred by inoculation of four commensal bacteria prior to Salmonella infection. This study demonstrates the key role plays by gut microbiota composition in the heterogeneity of infection and pave the way for developing predictive biomarkers and protective probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐step functionalization of 4‐diphenylphosphino benzoic acid with biotin afforded 2‐(biotinyloxy)ethyl 4‐(diphenylphosphanyl)benzoate (LP), that was subsequently used to synthesize the Ru(II) arene complexes [RuCl2(η6‐p‐cymene)(LP)] (1), [Ru(C2O4)(η6‐p‐cymene)(LP)] (2) and [Ru(curc)(η6‐p‐cymene)(LP)]NO3 ([3]NO3), the latter incorporating curcumin (curcH) as an additional bioactive fragment. [Ru(curc)(η6‐p‐cymene)(PPh3)]NO3 ([4]NO3) was also prepared as a reference compound. Compounds 2 and [3]NO3 exhibited excellent stability in water/DMSO solution while being slowly activated in the cell culture medium over 72 hours. Together with LP, they were therefore assessed for their antiproliferative activity towards a panel of cancer cell lines, with different levels of biotin transporter expression. The apparent affinity of the compounds towards avidin varies, and their antiproliferative activity does not correlate with biotin transporter expression, although it is systematically enhanced when biotin‐free cell culture medium is used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: It is commonly assumed that a genetically determined polymorphism of xenobiotic biotransformation plays a particular role in the development of such disease entities in which chemical compounds and environmental pollutants are relevant etiologic factors. Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) belongs to diseases of connective tissue, characterized by chronic inflammation developing on an autoimmune background. The current state of knowledge on the etiopathogenesis of autoimmune diseases indicates the existence of many factors affecting the development of the disease, including factors of the external environment. Considering all the above, a study on a role of genetic polymorphisms of glutathione S‐transferase has been undertaken in which predisposition to SSc in a Polish population was assessed. Methods: The study was carried out in 161 subjects: 61 patients with SSc and 100 healthy volunteers. A determination of the polymorphism of GSTM1 and GSTT1 was performed with a multiplex PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The GSTP1 polymorphism was determined by using the PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: The risk of developing SSc was 3‐fold higher for persons with the null GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes (odds ratio [OR] = 3.3; P = .0051). The risk for SSc was also demonstrated to be over 2.5‐fold greater in the GSTP1 Ile/Val genotype individuals (OR = 2.62; P = .0037). Carriers of the GSTP1 Val variant allele had a greater than 2‐fold increase in SSc risk (OR = 2.41; P = .0006). Conclusion: The genetic polymorphism of glutathione S‐transferase may affect the risk of SSc in a Polish population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photochemical transformation of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) under simulated sunlight into mostly unexplored photoproducts is reported herein. Non‐enzymatic glycation of amino acids leads to a heterogeneous class of intermediates with extreme chemical diversity, which is of particular relevance in processed and stored food products as well as in diabetic and age‐related protein damage. Here, three amino acids (lysine, arginine, and histidine) were reacted with ribose at 100 °C in water for ten hours. Exposing these model systems to simulated sunlight led to a fast decay of MRPs. The photodegradation of MRPs and the formation of new compounds have been studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and nontargeted (ultra)high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Photoreactions showed strong selectivity towards the degradation of electron‐rich aromatic heterocycles, such as pyrroles and pyrimidines. The data show that oxidative cleavage mechanisms dominate the formation of photoproducts. The photochemical transformations differed fundamentally from "traditional" thermal Maillard reactions and indicated a high amino acid specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite an ongoing need for pediatric research, low study enrollment may impede study completion, particularly in critical care. We conducted a prospective cross‐sectional survey and chart review study to assess parent experiences with research in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Of the 80 parents who completed the study survey, 54% were approached to participate in a research study in the PICU, and 93% agreed to participate. Motivators included altruism, low burden, low risk, and research that would benefit the child. Barriers included risks to the child, the child's being too sick to participate, feeling overwhelmed, not having enough time to participate, the research's being burdensome, and the research's not being explained well. PICU parents had mostly favorable attitudes toward research participation. Compared with non‐Hispanic survey respondents, respondents of Hispanic ethnicity less often reported having been approached for research, which further evidences the need to track research recruitment processes to help avoid underinclusion of members of minority populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Prior studies suggest diabetes camps improve psychosocial well‐being in youth with type 1 diabetes but these studies suffer from variable levels of rigor. The present study assessed associations between camp participation and diabetes distress, perceived independence in diabetes self‐care, and diabetes strengths in a large sample of children, adolescents, and their parents across 44 camps in the United States. Analyses compared viewpoints of study participants, identified moderators of change, and assessed perceived benefits of camp participation. Methods: There were 2488 youth and 2563 parents consented for participation in the online survey. Participants reported diabetes distress and perceived independence in youth care, their new experiences and best parts of camp, and changes in behavior following camp. T‐tests, regressions, Cohen's d, and relative frequencies were used as appropriate to assess baseline differences between reporters, pre‐post outcome differences, and moderators of change. Results: Parents as compared to youth reported higher pre‐camp distress and lower perception of youth independence in self‐care. Youth experienced a statistically significant decrease in distress and increase in independence in self‐care. Diabetes strengths did not change. Higher A1c prior to camp was associated with higher levels of distress across camp participation. Campers and their parents endorsed a high frequency of positive firsts, bests, and benefits of camp. Conclusions: Data from a large sample youth with type 1 diabetes across multiple camps showed broad‐based psychosocial benefits of camp participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study aimed to compare the accuracy of different methods of data acquisition and data reconstruction and to assess their usefulness for 3D printing of tooth replicas. Methods. 3-dimensional models of molar and canine teeth obtain utilizing CBCT examination with different protocols, and optical scanning was compared with models derived from micro-computed (micro-CT) examination using Geomagic Studio Qualify software. A pairwise comparison of 3D models with analysis of standard deviation and the value of the mean distance of given surfaces was performed. Results. Standard deviation and the value of the mean distance were lowest for optical scanning followed by CBC in high and standard resolution in all tested protocols. Models, obtained with high-resolution CBCT protocols, of teeth in and outside of alveolar bone showed similar average distance parameters, but standard deviation parameter was significantly lower for models of teeth scanned outside of the socket. Good surface representation on all models was seen at relatively smooth areas while in areas of high changes in the geometry CBCT based models performed inferiorly to those obtained from an optical scanner. Conclusions. In case of teeth of noncomplicated texture, independently from a position (within or outside the alveolar socket), the high-resolution CBCT seems to be a sufficient method to obtain data for 3D printed tooth replica. Optical scanning performs better when a detailed replica is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In human studies, it is well established that exposures during embryonic and fetal development periods can influence immune health. Coupled with genetic predisposition, these exposures can alter lifetime chronic and infectious disease trajectory, and, ultimately, life expectancy. Fortunately, as research advances, mechanisms governing long‐term effects of prenatal exposures are coming to light and providing the opportunity for intervention and risk reduction. For instance, human association studies have provided a foundation for the association of prenatal exposure to particulate matter with early immunosuppression and later allergic disease in the offspring. Only recently, the mechanisms mediating this response have been revealed and there is much we have yet to discover. Although cellular immune response is understood for many exposure scenarios, molecular pathways are still unidentified. This review will provide commentary and synthesis of the current literature regarding environmental exposures during pregnancy and mechanisms determining immune outcomes. Shared mechanistic features and current gaps in the state of the science are identified and discussed. To such purpose, we address exposures by their immune effect type: immunosuppression, autoimmunity, inflammation and tissue damage, hypersensitivity, and general immunomodulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, we have learned much about the anatomy, evolutionary history, and biomechanics of the extant sloths. However, most of this study has involved studying sloths in controlled conditions, and few studies have explored how these animals are behaving in a naturalistic setting. In this study, we integrate positional activities in naturalistic conditions with kinematic and kinetic observations collected on a simulated runway to best capture the biomechanical behavior of Linnaeus's twotoed sloths. We confirm that the dominant positional behaviors consist of hanging below the support using a combination of forelimbs and hindlimbs, and walking quadrupedally below the branches. The majority of these behaviors occur on horizontal substrates that are approximately 5-10 cm in diameter. The kinematics of suspensory walking observed both in the naturalistic settings and on simulated arboreal runways are dominated by movement of the proximal limb elements, while distal limb elements tend to show little excursion. Joint kinematics are similar between the naturalistic setting and the simulated runway, but movements of the shoulder and hip tend to be exaggerated while moving in simulated conditions. Kinetic patterns of the two-toed sloth can be explained almost entirely by considering them as an inverted linked strut. However, medially directed forces toward the substrate were more frequent than expected in the forelimb, which may help sloths maintain a better "grip" on the substrate. This study serves as a model of how to gain a comprehensive understanding of the functional-adaptive profile of a particular species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Atropine (Atr) and scopolamine (Scp) are toxic secondary plant metabolites of species within the Solanaceae genus that can accidentally or intentionally reach the food store chain by inaccurate harvesting of any plant material, e.g. for herbal tea infusions. Ingestion may cause severe anticholinergic poisoning thus requiring risk‐oriented determination in food and beverages. The suitability of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (tandem) mass spectrometry, MALDI‐TOF MS(/MS), should be characterized for simultaneous analysis. Methods: We herein present the first MALDI‐TOF MS(/MS) procedure for quantitative determination of both alkaloids in herbal tea infusions and Solanaceae plant material. A standard additions procedure using triply deuterated Atr as internal standard was developed and validated. Results: Tropane alkaloids were detected without interferences and the standard additions procedure allowed reliable quantification. Intraday and interday precision were less than 17% and corresponding accuracies were between 77% and 112%. Limits of detection in the spotting solution were found at 5 ng/mL (Atr) and 0.5 ng/mL (Scp). The assay was applied to diverse tea infusions as well as to berries and leaves of deadly nightshade and angel's trumpet. Conclusions: The usefulness of MALDI‐TOF MS(/MS) for investigations of plant‐derived samples to prove contaminations by small basic compounds was demonstrated. The elaborate procedure is reliable but quite laborious to obtain quantitative results, but MALDI‐TOF MS(/MS) was also shown to be a valuable tool for rapid qualitative screening for Atr and Scp in plant extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vitamin E (Vit. E) is discussed to influence ruminal biohydrogenation. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of a Vit. E supplementation on rumen fermentation characteristics, ruminal microbial protein synthesis as well as ruminal organic matter fermentation. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate the influence of Vit. E supplementation on short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) and protozoa concentrations in the rumen and, in addition, on transfer rates of middle‐chain and long‐chain fatty acids into the duodenum in lactating dairy cows. Eight rumen and duodenum fistulated German Holstein cows were assigned to either a group receiving 2,327 IU/d Vit. E (138.6 IU/kg DM DL‐α‐tocopherylacetate; n = 4) or a control group (23.1 IU/kg DM; n = 4). Neither ruminal protein synthesis nor organic matter fermentation was influenced by treatment. Vit. E did not act on the concentrations of short‐chain fatty acids and protozoa in rumen fluid. Duodenal flow of C13:0 (1.3 versus 0.2 g/d, p = 0.014) and iso‐C14:0 (1.0 versus 0.5 g/d, p = 0.050) was higher in the Vit. E group. We observed a trend for higher duodenal flows for C12:0 (1.6 versus 0.9 g/d, p = 0.095) and anteiso‐C15:0 (12.2 versus 8.9 g/d, p = 0.084). Transfer rate of C12:0 tended to be higher in the Vit. E group (125.61 versus 73.96, p = 0.082). No other transfer rates were affected by treatment. Further studies are necessary to investigate the influence of Vit. E on rumen microbiota and their fatty acid production as well as on the impact of different doses of Vit. E supplementation on variables of protein synthesis efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Summary: Carriage of Salmonella is often associated with a high level of bacterial excretion and generally occurs after a short systemic infection. However, we do not know whether this systemic infection is required or whether the carrier‐state corresponds to continuous reinfection or real persistence in caecal tissue. The use of a Salmonella Enteritidis bamB mutant demonstrated that a carrier‐state could be obtained in chicken in the absence of systemic infection. The development of a new infection model in isolator showed that a marked decrease in animal reinfection and host‐to‐host transmission between chicks led to a heterogeneity of S. Enteritidis excretion and colonization contrary to what was observed in cages. This heterogeneity of infection was characterized by the presence of super‐shedders, which constantly disseminated Salmonella to the low‐shedder chicks, mainly through airborne movements of contaminated dust particles. The presence of super‐shedders, in the absence of host‐to‐host transmission, demonstrated that constant reinfection was not required to induce a carrier‐state. Finally, our results suggest that low‐shedder chicks do not have a higher capability to destroy Salmonella but instead can block initial Salmonella colonization. This new paradigm opens new avenues to improve understanding of the carrier‐state mechanisms and to define new strategies to control Salmonella infections.© 2018 Society for Applied Microbiology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Infantile hemangiomas are the most common benign tumors of childhood. Although some children with periocular infantile hemangiomas do not require treatment, these lesions may result in amblyopia and visual impairment if not properly treated. We have attempted to characterize clinical features of periocular infantile hemangiomas that predict negative ocular outcomes and thus require prompt referral to an ophthalmologist and initiation of therapy. Methods: This study included children with periocular infantile hemangiomas consecutively seen at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago from January 1994 through December 2014. Only patients evaluated by both a dermatologist and an ophthalmologist were included. Medical records of patients who met inclusion criteria were reviewed. Ocular findings were reviewed for the presence of ptosis, refractive errors, strabismus, proptosis, and amblyopia. Results: Ninety‐six patients (74% female, median age of onset 0.48 months) were included. Periocular infantile hemangiomas larger than 1 cm in diameter, with a deep component, and with involvement of the upper eyelid were significantly associated with astigmatism (P = .002, P = .02, and P = .003, respectively) and amblyopia (P = .002, P = .02, and P = .04, respectively). Using logistic regression, diameter greater than 1 cm (odds ratio = 14.13, P = .01) and amblyopia (odds ratio = 21.00, P = .04) were the strongest predictors of astigmatism. Lower lid and medial and lateral canthal involvement were not predictive of ocular complications. Conclusion: Predictive factors for ocular complications in patients with periocular infantile hemangiomas are diameter greater than 1 cm, a deep component, and upper eyelid involvement, with size being the most consistent predictor. These patients should be promptly referred to an ophthalmologist, and treatment should be strongly considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Camp offers a safe and fun environment for learning new information about diabetes care and for trying new self-care skills. It is a place where children and teens are able to meet with others who also have diabetes and who share their experiences. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study assessed self-reports before and after attending diabetes camp on diabetes-specific emotional distress, diabetes-specific quality of life, and self-care behaviors by surveying campers and their parents from over 42 diabetes-specific summer camps across the United States. Parents ( N = 413), Teenagers ( N = 154), and Children ( N = 116) completed both pre- and post-camp surveys. RESULTS Parents reported higher levels of diabetes-specific emotional distress than their campers did. Both parents and children reported significant improvements in their own distress after camp. Teens reported improvements in distress but they were not statistically significant. Youth report higher levels of self-care skills than parents believe their children possess. Parents, Teens, and Children all reported significant improvements in the camper's self-care skills after camp. First time campers' and their parents' perspectives regarding self-care skills are consistent with veteran campers after attending camp. Self-reports post-camp reveals that campers and their parents see camp as a place where youth feel they are with others who really understand what it is like to live with diabetes. Respondents also report that camp is a place where youth are exposed to new technologies and where campers can try new self-care tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acacia rat Thallomys paedulcus is a small arboreal rodent, extensively dependent on Acacia sp. trees. In order to understand the arboreal locomotor adaptations of the species, we examined their gaits in arboreal locomotion (i.e. diagonality, duty factor, duty factor index, velocity, and stride length and frequency). For these purposes, we filmed 12 captive specimens on simulated arboreal substrates of variable sizes (2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 25 mm) and inclinations (0° and 45°). Acacia rats employed slow, symmetrical gaits with lower diagonality on the smaller substrates, which were progressively substituted by faster, asymmetrical half-bounding gaits on larger substrates. In general, inclination had no impact on gait metrics, except that ascents were slower than horizontal locomotion. Velocity increase was regulated primarily due to an increase in stride frequency, a pattern encountered in many small mammals, although stride length contributed significantly as well. These locomotor adaptations serve as a behavioural mechanism to cope with the challenges of the arboreal milieu. They appear to provide stability and enable safe negotiation of arboreal substrates, ultimately leading to the successful exploitation of Acacia trees in their natural habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this study was to optimize an existing clinical care pathway (CCP) for head and neck cancer with a high-observation protocol (HOP) and to determine the effect on length of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and length of stay in hospital (LOS). Methods The HOP mandated initiation of spontaneous breathing trials before the conclusion of the surgery, weaning of sedation, and limiting mechanical ventilation. All patients with head and neck cancer undergoing primary surgery on the HOP were compared to a historical cohort regarding length of ICU admission, ICU readmissions, and LOS. Results Ninety-six and 52 patients were observed in 'historical' and 'HOP' cohorts. The length of ICU admission (1.9 vs 1.2 days; p = .021), LOS (20.3 vs 14.1 days; p = .020), and ICU readmissions (10.4% vs 1.9%; p = .013) were significantly decreased in the 'HOP' cohort. Conclusion Rapid weaning of sedation and limiting mechanical ventilation may contribute to a shorter length of ICU admission and LOS, as well as decreased ICU readmissions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1689-1695, 2016 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium infections in malting barley cause mycotoxin contamination, quality impairment, and processing difficulties. The visual assessment of barley malt is a commonly applied practice in the malting and brewing industry to screen cereal batches for fungal infection, because it assumes a direct connection between occurring symptomatology and actual fungal contamination. The exceedance of a defined limit of red kernels (usually five to seven) in a 200 g subsample of malt is associated with an unjustifiable risk for further processing and can lead to reductions in price or the rejection of the entire batch. The present study evaluated the suitability of this method to ensure product quality and safety. It was further intended to resolve the presumed linkage between kernel discoloration and Fusarium infection. In general, symptomatology showed low predictability for Fusarium contamination. However, significant correlations became apparent between the number of discolored kernels and fungal DNA contents under conditions of higher levels of infection, although this was not the case for mycotoxin levels. Although symptomatology is likely overinterpreted in regard to its reliability as an indicator for Fusarium contaminations, it might still assist in assessing the risk of certain fungal contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To identify barriers to hydroxyurea adherence (negative beliefs, access, and/or recall barriers), and their relationship to adherence rates and health-related quality of life ( HRQOL) among adolescents and young adults ( AYA) with sickle cell disease ( SCD). Methods A cross-sectional survey was administered to 34 AYAs (12-22 years old) in SCD clinics from January to December 2015. Study measures included Brief Medication Questionnaire, Modified Morisky Adherence Scale 8-items, visual analog scale, and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System. Results Participants (59% male; 91% Black) had a median age of 13.5 years ( IQR 12-18). Participants reported negative beliefs (32%), recall barriers (44%), and access barriers (32%). Participants with recall barriers reported worse pain ( P=.02), fatigue ( P=.05), and depression ( P=.05). The number of adherence barriers inversely correlated with adherence level using © MMAS-8 ( rs=−.38, P=.02) and VASdose ( rs=−.25, P=.14) as well as MCV ( rs=−.45, P=.01) and HbF% ( rs=−.36, P=.05), suggesting higher hydroxyurea adherence in patients with fewer barriers. Conclusions Patients with fewer barriers to hydroxyurea adherence were more likely to have higher adherence rates and better HRQOL scores. Routine assessment of hydroxyurea adherence and its related barriers could provide actionable information to improve adherence rates, HRQOL, and other clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]