bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Op‐Ed Writing Assignment in Supply Chain Management Courses
Authors: Kwon Hee Yoon , Zhang Jiayuan , Özpolat Koray , Lin Yufeng , Ng Adolf K.Y.
Published: December 2020

Newspaper op‐eds, dedicated to commentary essays from outside of a newspaper, function as a platform for the public to exchange opinions. We designed an op‐ed writing assignment as part of a semester‐long course project in global supply chain management (SCM). Student teams conducted research on a SCM topic, presented their findings in the classroom, and wrote an op‐ed for submission to a local or regional newspaper. This teaching brief describes the implementation of this assignment at a northeast U.S. university. The goals of this assignment were: (1) to educate students on how to write an op‐ed and (2) to educate students on how to publish their opinion articles. Insights on the benefits and challenges that students experienced from completing the op‐ed assignment are discussed. A description of a case‐based version of the op‐ed writing assignment used in a Canadian university is also provided.
Unmasking pulmonary hypertension following tricuspid valve replacement
Authors: Ajam Mustafa , Touma Rabih , Chehab Omar , Shokr Mohamed , Abidov Aiden
Published: December 2020

In this Viewpoint, we highlight a possible hemodynamic problem arising following tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) in patients with severe chronic tricuspid regurgitation, represented by “unmasking” of pulmonary hypertension (PH) following the surgery. We share an observation that should alert cardiologists to the fact that this increasingly utilized surgery is not risk free, and careful assessment of the right ventricular function and pulmonary circulation preoperatively is extremely important, especially in patients with preexisting risk factors for PH, since TVR may lead to a sudden increase in right ventricular afterload.
Integration of three‐dimensional echocardiography into the modern‐day echo laboratory
Authors: Hur David J. , Sugeng Lissa
Published: December 2020

Three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) has emerged in recent decades from a conceptual, research tool to an important, useful imaging technique that can informatively impact daily clinical practice. However, its adoption into the modern‐day echo laboratory requires the acknowledgment of its value, coupled with proper leadership, education, and resources to implement and integrate its use with conventional echo techniques. 3DE integration involves important updates regarding equipment and patient selection, assimilation of 3D protocols into current clinical routine, laboratory workflow adaptation, storage, and reporting. This review will provide a practical blueprint and key points of how to integrate 3DE into today's echo laboratory, necessary resources to implement 3D workflow, logistical challenges that remain, and future directions to further improve assimilation of this relevant echo technique into the laboratory.
Limitations of the fasting proinsulin to insulin ratio as a measure of β‐cell health in people with and without impaired glucose tolerance
Authors: Egan Aoife M. , Laurenti Marcello C. , Hurtado Andrade Maria Daniela , Dalla Man Chiara , Cobelli Claudio , Bailey Kent R. , Vella Adrian
Published: December 2020

Background

The fasting proinsulin to insulin ratio is elevated in people with type 2 diabetes and has been suggested as a marker of β‐cell health. However, its utility in discriminating between individuals with varying degrees of β‐cell dysfunction is unclear. Proinsulin has a very different half‐life to insulin and unlike insulin does not undergo hepatic extraction prior to reaching the systemic circulation. Given these limitations, we sought to examine the relationship between fasting and postprandial concentrations of β‐cell polypeptides (proinsulin, insulin and C‐peptide) in people with normal and impaired glucose tolerance in differing metabolic environments.

Design

Subjects were studied on two occasions in random order while undergoing an oral challenge. During one study day, free fatty acids were elevated (to induce insulin resistance) by infusion of Intralipid with heparin. Proinsulin to insulin and proinsulin to C‐peptide ratios were calculated for the 0‐, 30‐, 60‐ and 240‐minute time points. Insulin action (Si) and β‐cell responsivity (Φ) indices were calculated using the oral minimal model.

Results

The fasting proinsulin to c‐peptide or fasting proinsulin to insulin ratios did not differ between groups and did not predict subsequent β‐cell responsivity to glucose during the glycerol or Intralipid study days in either group.

Conclusions

Among nondiabetic individuals, the fasting proinsulin to insulin ratio is not a useful marker of β‐cell function.
GDP‐network CoVaR: A tool for assessing growth‐at‐risk
Authors: De Meo Emanuele , Tizzanini Giacomo
Published: December 2020

We propose a tool to predict risks to economic growth and international business cycles spillovers: the gross domestic product (GDP)‐Network conditional value at risk (CoVaR). Our methodology to assess Growth‐at‐Risk is composed of two building blocks. In the first step, we apply a machine learning methodology, namely the network‐based NETS by Barigozzi and Brownlees, to identify significant linkages between pair of countries. In the second step, applying the CoVaR methodology by Adrian and Brunnermeier, and exploiting international statistics on trade flows and GDPs, we derive the entire distribution of Economic Growth spillover exposures at the bilateral, country and global level for different quantiles of tail events on economic growth. We find that Economic Growth Spillover probability distribution is time‐varying, left‐skewed and in some cases bi‐ or even multi‐modal. Second, we prove that our two‐step approach outperforms alternative one‐step quantile regression models in predicting risks to economic growth. Finally, we show that Global exposure to economic growth tail events is decreasing over time.
Intra‐amygdala metaplasticity modulation of fear extinction learning
Authors: Saha Rinki , Kriebel Martin , Anunu Rachel , Volkmer Hansjuergen , Richter‐Levin Gal
Published: December 2020

The amygdala is a key brain region involved in emotional memory formation. It is also responsible for memory modulation in other brain areas. Under extreme conditions, amygdala modulation may lead to the generation of abnormal plasticity and trauma‐related psychopathologies. However, the amygdala itself is a dynamic brain region, which is amenable to long‐term plasticity and is affected by emotional experiences. These alterations may modify the way the amygdala modulates activity and plasticity in other related brain regions, which in turn may alter the animal's response to subsequent challenges in what could be termed as “Behavioral metaplasticity.”Because of the reciprocal interactions between the amygdala and other emotion processing regions, such as the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) or the hippocampus, experience‐induced intra‐amygdala metaplasticity could lead to alterations in mPFC‐dependent or hippocampus‐dependent behaviors. While initiated by alterations within the basolateral amygdala (BLA), such alterations in other brain regions may come to be independent of BLA modulation, thus establishing what may be termed “Trans‐regional metaplasticity.” In this article, we review evidence supporting the notions of intra‐BLA metaplasticity and how this may develop into “Trans‐regional metaplasticity.” Future research is needed to understand how such dynamic metaplastic alterations contribute to developing psychopathologies, and how this knowledge may be translated into promoting novel interventions in psychopathologies associated with fear, stress, and trauma.
Defining the course of tumefactive multiple sclerosis: A large retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Di Gregorio Maria , Torri Clerici Valentina Liliana Adriana , Fenu Giuseppe , Gaetani Lorenzo , Gallo Antonio , Cavalla Paola , Ragonese Paolo , Annovazzi Pietro , Gajofatto Alberto , Prosperini Luca , Landi Doriana , Nicoletti Carolina Gabri , Di Carmine Caterina , Totaro Rocco , Nociti Viviana , De Fino Chiara , Ferraro Diana , Tomassini Valentina , Tortorella Carla , Righini Isabella , Amato Maria Pia , Manni Alessia , Paolicelli Damiano , Iaffaldano Pietro , Lanzillo Roberta , Moccia Marcello , Buttari Fabio , Fantozzi Roberta , Cerqua Raffaella , Zagaglia Sara , Farina Deborah , De Luca Giovanna , Buscarinu Maria Chiara , Pinardi Federica , Cocco Eleonora , Gasperini Claudio , Solaro Claudio Marcello , Di Filippo Massimiliano
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose

Tumefactive multiple sclerosis (TuMS) (i.e., MS onset presenting with tumefactive demyelinating lesions [TDLs]) is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We performed a multicentre retrospective study to describe the clinical characteristics and the prognostic factors of TuMS.

Methods

One hundred two TuMS patients were included in this retrospective study. Demographic, clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), laboratory data and treatment choices were collected.

Results

TuMS was found to affect women more than men (female:male: 2.4), with a young adulthood onset (median age: 29.5 years, range: 11–68 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 38 years). At onset, 52% of TuMS patients presented with the involvement of more than one functional system and 24.5% of them with multiple TDLs. TDLs most frequently presented with an infiltrative MRI pattern (38.7%). Cerebrospinal fluid immunoglobulin G oligoclonal bands were often demonstrated (76.6%). In 25.3% of the cases, more than one acute‐phase treatment was administered, and almost one‐half of the patients (46.6%) were treated with high‐efficacy treatments. After a median follow‐up of 2.3 years (range: 0.1–10.7 years, IQR: 3.4 years), the median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was 1.5 (range: 0–7, IQR: 2). Independent risk factors for reaching an EDSS score ≥3 were a higher age at onset (odds ratio [OR]: 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.14, p < 0.01), a higher number of TDLs (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.02–2.74, p < 0.05) and the presence of infiltrative TDLs (OR: 3.34, 95% CI: 1.18–9.5, p < 0.001) at baseline.

Conclusions

The management of TuMS might be challenging because of its peculiar characteristics. Large prospective studies could help to define the clinical characteristics and the best treatment algorithms for people with TuMS.
Treatment of a congenital lateral patellar luxation by recession trochleoplasty in a donkey foal
Authors: Abu‐Seida A. M. , Shamaa A. A.
Published: December 2020

The present report describes the surgical treatment of a congenital lateral patellar luxation in a 6‐month‐old female donkey foal. The foal was presented with a slight crouched position, muscle atrophy, moderate lameness, reluctance to flex the right hindlimb at a walk and slight effusion of the right stifle joint. The foal responded painfully to the stifle flexion test. Irreducible lateral luxation of the right patella was confirmed on physical examination and radiography. The animal was treated surgically by recession trochleoplasty and imbrication of the medial joint capsule. The animal gradually improved after surgery, and good clinical results were reported after 6 months post‐operatively. In conclusion, congenital lateral luxation of the patella should be considered as a congenital cause of lameness in donkeys and surgical repair by recession trochleoplasty and medial imbrication of the joint capsule can be helpful to treat this problem.
Lessons From the Field: Developing and Implementing an Intervention for Jailed Parents and Their Children
Authors: Charles Pajarita , Kerr Margaret , Wirth Jennifer , Jensen Sarah , Massoglia Michael , Poehlmann‐Tynan Julie
Published: December 2020

Objective

In this Lesson from the Field, we describe an intervention designed by our transdisciplinary team focusing on opportunities for enhanced parent–child visits when a parent is incarcerated in jail. We present implementation challenges and lessons learned from our pilot feasibility study.

Background

Separation from one's parent because of incarceration has become an increasingly common experience for U.S. children, with one in 14 children experiencing a coresident parent leaving for prison or jail. Parental incarceration is associated with elevated risk for less optimal child development outcomes, yet few evidence‐based interventions are available to mitigate this risk.

Experience

Our field experience underscores knowledge about intervention development and lessons learned in four areas: (a) use of visit coaching with jailed parents and caregivers, (b) application of video chat technology, (c) serving families holistically, and (d) developing family‐focused services in jails.

Conclusion and Implications

Our study highlights the value of integrating multiple perspectives, ensuring flexibility with families, combining technology with enhanced support strategies, and collaborating with community organizations and government agencies. The intervention can be implemented without extensive training and can be useful across different family professionals working with families involved in the criminal justice system.
Crystal and solution structure of NDRG1, a membrane‐binding protein linked to myelination and tumour suppression
Authors: Mustonen Venla , Muruganandam Gopinath , Loris Remy , Kursula Petri , Ruskamo Salla
Published: December 2020

N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) is a tumour suppressor involved in vesicular trafficking and stress response. NDRG1 participates in peripheral nerve myelination, and mutations in the NDRG1 gene lead to Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathy. The 43‐kDa NDRG1 is considered as an inactive member of the α/β hydrolase superfamily. In addition to a central α/β hydrolase fold domain, NDRG1 consists of a short N terminus and a C‐terminal region with three 10‐residue repeats. We determined the crystal structure of the α/β hydrolase domain of human NDRG1 and characterised the structure and dynamics of full‐length NDRG1. The structure of the α/β hydrolase domain resembles the canonical α/β hydrolase fold with a central β sheet surrounded by α helices. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering and CD spectroscopy indicated a variable conformation for the N‐ and C‐terminal regions. NDRG1 binds to various types of lipid vesicles, and the conformation of the C‐terminal region is modulated upon lipid interaction. Intriguingly, NDRG1 interacts with metal ions, such as nickel, but is prone to aggregation in their presence. Our results uncover the structural and dynamic features of NDRG1, as well as elucidate its interactions with metals and lipids, and encourage studies to identify a putative hydrolase activity of NDRG1.

Databases

The coordinates and structure factors for the crystal structure of human NDRG1 were deposited to PDB (PDB ID: 6ZMM).
Lower soil moisture and deep soil temperatures in thermokarst features increase old soil carbon loss after 10 years of experimental permafrost warming
Authors: Pegoraro Elaine F. , Mauritz Marguerite E. , Ogle Kiona , Ebert Christopher H. , Schuur Edward A. G.
Published: December 2020

Almost half of the global terrestrial soil carbon (C) is stored in the northern circumpolar permafrost region, where air temperatures are increasing two times faster than the global average. As climate warms, permafrost thaws and soil organic matter becomes vulnerable to greater microbial decomposition. Long‐term soil warming of ice‐rich permafrost can result in thermokarst formation that creates variability in environmental conditions. Consequently, plant and microbial proportional contributions to ecosystem respiration may change in response to long‐term soil warming. Natural abundance δ13C and Δ14C of aboveground and belowground plant material, and of young and old soil respiration were used to inform a mixing model to partition the contribution of each source to ecosystem respiration fluxes. We employed a hierarchical Bayesian approach that incorporated gross primary productivity and environmental drivers to constrain source contributions. We found that long‐term experimental permafrost warming introduced a soil hydrology component that interacted with temperature to affect old soil C respiration. Old soil C loss was suppressed in plots with warmer deep soil temperatures because they tended to be wetter. When soil volumetric water content significantly decreased in 2018 relative to 2016 and 2017, the dominant respiration sources shifted from plant aboveground and young soil respiration to old soil respiration. The proportion of ecosystem respiration from old soil C accounted for up to 39% of ecosystem respiration and represented a 30‐fold increase compared to the wet‐year average. Our findings show that thermokarst formation may act to moderate microbial decomposition of old soil C when soil is highly saturated. However, when soil moisture decreases, a higher proportion of old soil C is vulnerable to decomposition and can become a large flux to the atmosphere. As permafrost systems continue to change with climate, we must understand the thresholds that may propel these systems from a C sink to a source.
Effects of rhizosphere soil nitrification on the compensatory growth of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam) based on root‐produced cytokinin
Authors: Guo Ya‐Dan , Wang Xiao‐Ling , Qi Lin , Shi Jiang , Liu Yu‐Hua , Li Xue‐Lin , Zhang Li‐Xia , Qin De‐Hua , Song Peng
Published: December 2020

Compensatory growth of forage grass can determine its optimal biomass, which is beneficial for increasing its production. The effect of rhizosphere soil nitrification on Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam) regrowth was investigated on the basis of root‐produced cytokinin concentration in leaves to reveal the forage grass compensatory growth mechanism. The nitrification inhibitor 3,4‐dimethylpyrazole phosphate was added to inhibit soil nitrification. Without soil nitrification being inhibited, compared with no clipping one defoliation cycle increased the leaf photosynthetic rate by 43.82%–53.79%, increased the leaf cytokinin content by 33.48%–34.73%, and increased the cytokinin transport from roots to leaves by 28.88%–39.47%. Nitrification inhibitor decreased soil nitrification rates by 23.33%–84.17% in the rhizosphere and by 42.71%–68.29% in the bulk soil during regrowth. In the rhizosphere micro‐environment, nitrification increased soil nitrate concentration that played an important role in the transport of cytokinin from roots to leaves during regrowth, increasing the leaf cytokinin concentration. However, bulk soil nitrification rate and nitrate content had little influence on leaf cytokinin concentration during regrowth. An increase in leaf cytokinin improved the photosynthesis and the regrowth. Without soil nitrification being inhibited, total biomass at the end of regrowth period was 1.09 times higher in plants that were defoliated once than in non‐clipped plants. However, soil nitrification inhibitor and two defoliation cycles decreased Italian ryegrass regrowth. Super compensatory growth occurred in the one defoliation cycle Italian ryegrasses without adding soil nitrification inhibitor. Compensatory growth occurred in once‐defoliated Italian ryegrass with adding soil nitrification inhibitor and in twice‐defoliated Italian ryegrass without adding soil nitrification inhibitor. In conclusion, rhizosphere soil nitrification is the key factor that regulates the compensatory growth of Italian ryegrass.
Migration, service work, and masculinity in the global South: Private security guards in post‐socialist China
Authors: Choi Susanne Y. P. , Li Siran
Published: December 2020

Past research on service work and masculinity has focused on men in traditionally feminized occupations or men in celebrated male‐dominated occupations in the global North, thus neglecting the experiences of men in low status, male‐dominated, and supposedly “masculine” service occupations in the global South. This article attempts to fill the gap by illustrating the problematic connections between work and masculinity among rural‐to‐urban male migrant workers in low paid private security guarding in South China. It examines how macrostructural forces of labor precarization, growing class inequalities, and the emergence of a discourse of consumer supremacy in post‐socialist China has rendered the instrumental, symbolic, and social connections between work and masculinity problematic for this group of workers. It also describes five different strategies employed by these workers to achieve a sense of manhood: practicing combative masculinity; practicing toxic masculinity; constructing a discourse of professionalism; emphasizing their fulfillment of familial responsibility; and espousing an entrepreneurial aspiration.
Effect of forest disturbance on ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) diversity in a Mexican tropical dry forest canopy
Authors: Hernández‐Flores Jaime , Flores‐Palacios Alejandro , Vásquez‐Bolaños Miguel , Toledo‐Hernández Víctor Hugo , Sotelo‐Caro Ofelia , Ramos‐Robles Michelle
Published: December 2020

1. Ants are the dominant insects in tropical forest canopies. The α and β diversities of ants change in response to forest disturbance. Understanding the response of ants to forest disturbance will help to guide ant conservation and forest management plans, especially in endangered ecosystems such as the tropical dry forest. 2. We analysed ant α and β diversities in 15 fragments (5 mature, 5 disturbed, and 5 secondary) of a tropical dry forest in central Mexico. We identified and measured all of the trees in two transects (10 × 50 m) established within each fragment. Pit‐fall traps were used to sample ants in all of the trees. 3. We identified 52 ant species (from a total of 11,524 individuals). The mature forest presented the greatest quantity of exclusive species and the highest α diversity. Ant composition differed among the mature forest but not between disturbed and secondary forest, and was related to tree size and richness. The β diversity was lower in the disturbed forest, reflecting the cost of biotic homogenization (15%). Among the β diversity components in all three forest types, this diversity was mainly influenced by turnover, while nestedness diminished in the disturbed forest. 4. In the tropical dry forest studied, anthropogenic disturbance homogenises the ant community, probably because the availability of resources is also homogenised, decreasing the α diversities of the canopy ants. Our results show the importance of the conservation of mature forests in terms of maintaining the diversity of canopy ants.
A New Politics? Symposium on Dauvergne’s The New Politics and the End of Settler Societies
Authors: Paquet Mireille
Published: December 2020

This Special Issue presents articles that empirically and theoretically explores the central arguments of Catherine Dauvergne's 2016 book The New Politics and the End of Settler Societies. This multidisciplinary issue comprises five research articles and a closing commentary from Catherine Dauvergne, exploring migration‐related events that have taken place since 2015. As a whole, these articles demonstrate the relevance of The New Politics and the End of Settler Societies to future comparative studies of immigration politics and policies. Contributions to this Special Issue also confirm policy trends and convergence, as argued by Dauvergne. More broadly, the selected articles illustrate the analytical and political challenges associated with imagining research and policies outside of the paradigm of settler societies.
The development of gaze following in monolingual and bilingual infants: A multi‐laboratory study
Authors: Byers‐Heinlein Krista , Tsui Rachel Ka‐Ying , van Renswoude Daan , Black Alexis K. , Barr Rachel , Brown Anna , Colomer Marc , Durrant Samantha , Gampe Anja , Gonzalez‐Gomez Nayeli , Hay Jessica F. , Hernik Mikołaj , Jartó Marianna , Kovács Ágnes Melinda , Laoun‐Rubenstein Alexandra , Lew‐Williams Casey , Liszkowski Ulf , Liu Liquan , Noble Claire , Potter Christine E. , Rocha‐Hidalgo Joscelin , Sebastian‐Galles Nuria , Soderstrom Melanie , Visser Ingmar , Waddell Connor , Wermelinger Stephanie , Singh Leher
Published: December 2020

Determining the meanings of words requires language learners to attend to what other people say. However, it behooves a young language learner to simultaneously encode relevant non‐verbal cues, for example, by following the direction of their eye gaze. Sensitivity to cues such as eye gaze might be particularly important for bilingual infants, as they encounter less consistency between words and objects than monolingual infants, and do not always have access to the same word‐learning heuristics (e.g., mutual exclusivity). In a preregistered study, we tested the hypothesis that bilingual experience would lead to a more pronounced ability to follow another's gaze. We used a gaze‐following paradigm developed by Senju and Csibra (Current Biology, 18, 2008, 668) to test a total of 93 6‐ to 9‐month‐old and 229 12‐ to 15‐month‐old monolingual and bilingual infants, in 11 laboratories located in 8 countries. Monolingual and bilingual infants showed similar gaze‐following abilities, and both groups showed age‐related improvements in speed, accuracy, frequency, and duration of fixations to congruent objects. Unexpectedly, bilinguals tended to make more frequent fixations to on‐screen objects, whether or not they were cued by the actor. These results suggest that gaze sensitivity is a fundamental aspect of development that is robust to variation in language exposure.
Effects of customer horizontal merger on supplier capital structure decisions
Authors: Oliveira Mauro , Kadapakkam Palani‐Rajan
Published: December 2020

We study the impact of a significant customer's merger on the capital structure of suppliers using a sample of U.S. firms that merged with rivals in the same industry. The bargaining power theory of capital structure predicts that suppliers will increase debt to decrease the surplus available for negotiation when facing customers that gain buying power by increasing their size through mergers. We find that suppliers increase their financial leverage after the effective date of their customer's merger. This increase is economically significant, permanent, and unrelated to supplier merger activity. We also find that greater concentration in the supplier's industry and higher supplier market power are associated with lower increases in supplier's leverage. Overall, the empirical evidence is consistent with suppliers increasing their financial leverage to fortify their bargaining power.
Attitudes towards advanced nursing roles in primary dementia care – Results of an observational study in Germany
Authors: Michalowsky Bernhard , Henning Esther , Rädke Anika , Dreier‐Wolfgramm Adina , Altiner Attila , Wollny Anja , Drewelow Eva , Kohlmann Thomas , Biedenweg Bianca , Buchholz Maresa , Oppermann Roman F. , Zorn Daniela , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: December 2020

Aims

To demonstrate the attitudes of general practitioners (GPs), nurses, persons with dementia, and caregiver towards suitable tasks and qualification needs for and the acceptance and impact of advanced nursing roles in German dementia primary care.

Design

Observational study using a questionnaire survey with 225 GPs, 232 nurses, 211 persons with dementia, and 197 caregivers, conducted between December 2017–August 2018.

Methods

A questionnaire was generated that includes specific assessment, prescription, and monitoring tasks of advanced nursing roles in dementia primary care as well as qualification requirements for and the acceptance and the impact of advanced nursing roles. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Group differences were assessed using the Fisher's exact test.

Results

Advanced nursing roles were highly appreciated across all groups. Assessment and monitoring tasks were rated as highly suitable, and prescription authorities as moderately suitable. Nurses felt less confident in assessment and monitoring, but more confident in prescribing as practitioners expected. Patients and caregivers would appreciate a takeover of tasks by nurses; nurses and practitioners preferred a delegation. A dementia‐specific qualification was rated as best suitable for advanced nursing roles, followed by ‘no specific qualification’ if medical tasks that only can be carried out by practitioners were delegated and an academic degree if tasks were substituted. Advanced nursing roles were rated as beneficial, strengthening the confidence in nursing care and improving the cooperation between professionals and the treatment. Practitioners assumed that advanced nursing roles would improve job satisfaction of nurses, which was not confirmed by nurses.

Conclusion

There is an extended consensus towards the enlargement of advanced nursing roles, represented by high endorsement, acceptance, and willingness to reorganize tasks.

Impact

Results debunk the common notion that German practitioners would be reluctant towards advanced nursing roles and a takeover of current practitioner tasks, supporting the implementation of advanced nursing roles in Germany.
The stages‐of‐change approach for prosocial behavior: Message tailoring to encourage blood donation
Authors: Hong Ji Mi , Lee Wei‐Na
Published: December 2020

This research applied the Trans‐Theoretical Model and the Construal Level Theory to framing messages for blood donation. People can be at different degrees of readiness for blood donation and are, therefore, dispersed into discrete stages of change. These stages of change correspond to varying psychological distances that define the extent to which a person's thinking on the suggested behavior is abstract (high construal level) or concrete (low construal level). Differences in psychological distance thus affect whether individuals focus on how easy it is to donate blood (feasibility) or on why it is important to donate blood (desirability) in the ad message. This research conducted two studies using a 2 (types of message: feasibility vs. desirability—manipulated) × 3 (stages of change: pre‐contemplation vs. contemplation/preparation vs. action/maintenance—measured) between‐subject, randomly assigned factorial design experiment. The results of both studies showed that for individuals in the pre‐contemplation stage, desirability, rather than feasibility, messages were more likely to produce favorable attitudes toward the ad, its sponsoring organization, and blood donation behavior itself, whereas the opposite was true for those in the action/maintenance stage. Those differences were weakened or not observed for those in the contemplation/preparation stage. These patterns of interaction were not replicated for behavioral intention. Collectively, these findings suggest that tailoring a message according to the intended audience's stage of change should promote positive attitudes for blood donation. Meanwhile, future research is needed to bridge the attitude‐behavior gap when it comes to blood donation.
Catheter ablation of premature ventricular contractions originating from periprosthetic aortic valve regions
Authors: Han Jie , Lee Justin Z. , Padmanabhan Deepak , Naksuk Niyada , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Munger Thomas M. , Killu Ammar M. , Madhavan Malini , Xiao PeiLin , Zheng Liang‐Rong , Cha Yong‐Mei
Published: December 2020

Background

Little is known about the ablation outcomes of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) that originate from the periprosthetic aortic valve (PPAV) regions of patients with aortic valve replacement (AVR).

Methods and Results

Our study had 11 patients who underwent catheter ablation for PVCs arising from the PPAV regions (bioprosthetic aortic valve, n = 5; mechanical aortic valve, n = 6). The PVC characteristics, procedure characteristics, and efficacy of ablation were compared with the control group (n = 33). At baseline, the PPAV group had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (mean [SD], 41% [12%] vs. 51% [8%]; p = .002). The rate of acute ablation success was 90.9% in the PPAV group. Ablation sites were identified above the left coronary cusp (LCC) and right coronary cusp commissure (LRCC) in one PVC, below the prosthetic valve in eight PVCs (four below LCC and four below LRCC), and within the distal coronary sinus in two PVCs. The mean procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and radiation in the PPAV group were all significantly greater than those in the control group (all p < .05). However, the number of radiofrequency ablation energy deliveries was not different. The PPAV group had a long‐term success rate compared with the control group (72.7% vs. 87.9%, p = .48) and an increase of left ventricular ejection fraction from 43% to 49% after successful PVC ablation at follow‐up (p < .001). Echocardiography showed no significant change in valve regurgitation after ablation. No new atrioventricular block occurred.

Conclusion

PVCs arising from PPAV regions can be successfully ablated in patients with prior AVR, without damaging the prosthetic aortic valve and atrioventricular conduction.
Anti‐tumour effects of a dual cancer‐specific oncolytic adenovirus on Breast Cancer Stem cells
Authors: Li Wenjie , Li Yiquan , Cui Yingli , Li Shanzhi , Zhu Yilong , Shang Chao , Song Gaojie , Liu Zirui , Xiu Zhiru , Cong Jianan , Li Tingyu , Li Xiao , Sun Lili , Jin Ningyi
Published: December 2020

Apoptin can specifically kill cancer cells but has no toxicity to normal cells. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) can act as a tumour‐specific promoter by triggering the expression of certain genes in tumour cells. This study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects and to explore the inhibitory pathway of a dual cancer‐specific recombinant adenovirus (Ad‐apoptin‐hTERTp‐E1a, Ad‐VT) on breast cancer stem cells. Breast cancer cell spheres were obtained from MCF‐7 cells through serum‐free suspension culture. The cell spheres were detected by flow cytometry for CD44+ CD24− cell subsets. The stemness of MCF‐7‐CSC cells was confirmed by in vivo tumorigenesis experiments. The inhibitory effect of the recombinant adenoviruses on MCF‐7‐CSC cells was evaluated by CCK‐8 assay. In addition, the stemness of adenovirus‐infected MCF‐7‐CSC cells was analysed by testing the presence of CD44+ CD24− cell subsets. The ability of the recombinant adenovirus to induce MCF‐7‐CSC cell apoptosis was detected by staining JC‐1, TMRM and Annexin V. Our results showed that a significantly higher proportion of the CD44+ CD24− cell subsets was present in MCF‐7‐CSC cells with a significantly increased expression of stem cell marker proteins. The MCF‐7‐CSC cells, whlist exhibited a strong tumorigenic ability with a certain degree of stemness in mice, were shown to be strongly inhibited by recombinant adenovirus Ad‐VT through cell apoptosis. In addition, Ad‐VT was shown to exert a killing effect on BCSCs. These results provide a new theoretical basis for the future treatment of breast cancer.
Comparing the scale of modelled and recorded current flood risk: Results from England
Authors: Penning‐Rowsell Edmund C.
Published: December 2020

As the Sendai framework recognises, understanding the nature and severity of risk is an important prerequisite to sensible risk reducing measures. The UK has been in the forefront of assessing the scale of flood risk at a national level to inform investment and policy directions but the scale of this risk, as modelled, has reduced since 2014. This paper compares the most recent modelled version of national flood risk, in the form of the Environment Agency's State of the Nation report, with loss figures quantified in terms of insurance claims data for the period 1998 to 2018. Depending on assumptions, the results show that the modelled results are between 2.06 and over 9.0 times the comparable flood losses measured in terms of the compensation paid to flood victims by insurance companies. The reasons for these differences remain unclear but several possibilities are reviewed. Many of these reasons appear implausible, but the divergence between the two sets of results should encourage the users of this data to consider carefully their assessments of the true scale of flood risk that the country faces, and perhaps promote similar comparisons in other countries.
Composite coatings based on konjac glucomannan and sodium alginate modified with allicin and in situ SiOx for ginger rhizomes preservation
Authors: Li Qiuying , Xu Jinxiu , Wang Jianyuan , Ge Yonghong , Li Jianrong , Sun Tong
Published: December 2020

Ginger is a condiment vegetable and widely cultivated in many countries for its important role as spice and medicinal herb in international trade. However, the quality of fresh ginger will reduce after harvest and during storage. In the present study, edible coatings were developed based on konjac glucomannan (KGM) and sodium alginate (SA), incorporating with allicin and in situ SiOx. The coatings were characterized, and the effects of the coatings on the quality of ginger were evaluated. The results demonstrate that the addition of allicin improve the compatibility of KGM and SA in film, and the addition of allicin and in situ SiOx promote more hydrogen bond formation in the film. The physicochemical properties of KGM/SA film are improved due to modification, and allicin coating is optimal for mechanical properties, while allicin‐SiOx film is optimal both for mechanical properties and gas barrier. The KGM/SA coatings especially KGM/SA‐allicin‐SiOx significantly inhibited the total phenol, flavonoid, total soluble sugars content, enzyme activities such as peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and cellulase of gingers during storage. In addition, KGM/SA coatings effectively preserved the ascorbic acid (AsA), and titratable acidity (TA). Over all, KGA/SA coatings, especially with allicin and in situ SiOx, exhibited more significant and positive effects on quality of gingers during storage. Therefore, the KGM/SA coatings are promising in gingers preservation.
Successful Discharge to Community Gap of FFS Medicare Beneficiaries With and Without ADRD Narrowed
Authors: Bardenheier Barbara H. , Rahman Momotazur , Kosar Cyrus , Werner Rachel M. , Mor Vincent
Published: December 2020

Background/Objectives

We sought to compare the post‐acute and long‐term care experience of Medicare beneficiaries with and without Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD), and whether differences changed from January 1, 2007 to September 30, 2015.

Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional trend study using Medicare claims linked to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) Minimum Data Set.

Setting

CMS‐certified skilled nursing facilities (skilled nursing facility (SNF), n = 17,043).

Participants

Fee‐for‐service Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥66 years (n = 6,614,939) discharged from a hospital to a SNF who had not lived in a nursing home during the year before hospitalization.

Measurements

ADRD was defined by the Chronic Condition Data Warehouse. Outcome measures included: (1) successful discharge defined as being in SNF less than 90 days, then discharged back to the community, alive without subsequent inpatient health care for 30 continuous days; (2) became long‐stay resident in SNF; (3) death in SNF within 90 days; (4) hospital readmission within 30 days of entering SNF; and (5) transferred to another nursing home within 30 days of entering SNF.

Results

Successful discharge of beneficiaries with ADRD increased from 43.4% in 2007 to 53.9% in 2015 (average annual percent change (AAPC) = 2.1 (95% CI = 2.0–2.2)); those without ADRD also increased (from 59.1% to 63.6%, AAPC = 0.9 (95% CI = 0.7–1.1)) but not as fast as those with ADRD (P < .01). The proportion of all beneficiaries who became long‐stay or were readmitted to the hospital decreased (P < .05). The proportion with ADRD who became long‐stay was nearly three times higher than those without throughout the study (15.0% vs 5.5% in 2007; 11.3% vs 4.3% in 2015).

Conclusion

Though disparity in ADRD in becoming long‐stay residents remains, the increase in successful discharges among those with ADRD also stresses the increasing importance of community as a care setting for adults with ADRD.
Two cases of cryptococcus gattii infection in the rhesus macaque (Macaca Mulatta)
Authors: Johnson Amanda L. , Lewis Anne D.
Published: December 2020

Cryptococcus gattii was diagnosed in two female indoor‐housed rhesus macaques. Gross and histopathologic findings included an isolated pulmonary cryptococcoma in a non‐SIV‐infected macaque and disseminated disease centered on the lungs of an SIV‐infected macaque. Fungal yeast were positive with special stains, and the diagnoses were confirmed with a lateral flow assay and PCR.
Nicotinamide ameliorates energy deficiency and improves retinal function in Cav‐1‐/‐ mice
Authors: Tang Yizhen , Fang Wangyi , Xiao Zebin , Song Maomao , Zhuang Dongli , Han Binze , Wu Jihong , Sun Xinghuai
Published: December 2020

Caveolin‐1(Cav‐1) is involved in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis, which is important for the energetically demanding retina. Although retinal function deficits were noted in Cav‐1 knockout (Cav‐1‐/‐) mice, the underlying causes remain largely unknown. Here, we investigate if the disruption in energy homeostasis presents a potential mechanism for retinal function deficits in Cav‐1‐/‐ retina and if it can be ameliorated by nicotinamide (NAM). In this study, NAM was administrated orally for 2 weeks in Cav‐1‐/‐ mice before experiments. Oxidative lipidomics was conducted to detect the oxylipin changes, the retinal energy flux was measured by seahorse assay, and the retinal function was assessed by electroretinogram (ERG). Cav‐1 deficiency induced the dysregulation of oxidative lipidomics and reduction in energy consumption/production in the retina by decreasing Na+/K+‐ATPase, oxidative phosphorylation CII, cytochrome c, and oxygen consumption rate (OCR). A decrease in Sirt1 was also detected. Therapeutic administration of NAM significantly increased Sirt1 expression and improved energy deficiency by increasing Na+/K+‐ATPase, cytochrome c, and OCR. The dysregulation of oxidative lipidomics was partially recovered, and the retinal function was improved as assessed by ERG compared to Cav‐1‐/‐ mice. Our study demonstrated the dysregulation of oxidative lipidomics in Cav‐1‐/‐ retina and established a link between energy deficiency and retinal function deficits in Cav‐1‐/‐ mice. Administration of NAM ameliorated energy deficiency, increased the expression of Sirt1, and improved retinal function, which presents a potential therapeutic strategy for Cav‐1 deficiency‐induced retinal function deficits.

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The variability in location of the most prominent points on the posterior torso of those without abnormal surface topography, those with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis and those with Scheuermann's Kyphosis: a seven year longitudinal analysis
Authors: Gardner Adrian , Berryman Fiona , Sur Hartej , Pynsent Paul
Published: December 2020

The correction of adolescent scoliosis involves the recreation of torso symmetry. A symmetrical torso has equivalent areas of shape on either side of the midline. The posterior torso has two areas of prominence, known as the ‘most prominent points’ on either side of the midline which can be used as reference points to measure symmetry of the posterior torso. This study used the three‐dimensional (3D) coordinates of the most prominent points, measured using ISIS2 surface topography and standardised by torso size, in children without abnormal surface topography, with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) (right thoracic curves) and with Scheuermann's kyphosis (SK). The purpose was to demonstrate the variability of the position of the points in these three groups. The variability of the 3D coordinates was calculated for each group (mean, standard deviation and range in millimetres) and the standardised data were illustrated using 3D 95% confidence interval ellipsoids. In those without deformity, the position of the left and right point was mirrored with little difference. The AIS group showed a difference between the left and right points, with the right becoming further from the midline and more prominent than the left but with the left becoming more superior than the right. For the SK cohort, both left and right points moved inwards towards the midline and became more prominent. Linear mixed effect modelling was used to examine the contribution of age, kyphosis and scoliosis to the position of the most prominent points. In the cohort without abnormal surface topography, the x parameter increases with the covariates of age and kyphosis, with the covariate of age likely reflecting torso growth. The left side becomes more prominent and inferior compared to the right. In the AIS cohort, age follows the cohort without abnormal surface topography. This is added to by the scoliosis which is observed to make the right side more lateral, less inferior and more prominent, whereas the left becomes more medial, less inferior and less prominent. Kyphosis in the AIS cohort leads to the right point becoming more lateral, less inferior and less prominent whereas in the left becomes more lateral, more inferior and more prominent. In the SK cohort, the effects of the covariates of age and kyphosis are not clear reflecting the small number of cases with more than one surface topography image over time.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Cancer Screening Interventions Targeting Appalachian Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Robertson Nicole M. , Hudson Lauren , Attia Suzanna Labib , Porterfield J. Zachary , Vanderford Nathan L.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Appalachian residents have higher cancer prevalence and invasive cancer incidence in almost all cancer types relative to non‐Appalachian residents. Public health interventions have been carried out to increase preventive cancer screening participation. However, no studies have evaluated the effectiveness of existing interventions targeting cancer screening uptake in this high‐risk population. The main objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed at increasing uptake and/or continuing participation in screened cancers (breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate) in Appalachia.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of electronic databases and gray literature using a combination of MeSH and free‐text search terms related to breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer; mass screening; health promotion; and Appalachia. We identified 3,014 articles of which 15 articles were included. We assessed methodological quality using validated tools and analyzed findings using narrative synthesis.

Findings

Fifteen studies reported uptake and/or continued participation in screening interventions; these focused on cervical (n = 7), colorectal (n = 5), breast (n = 2), and lung (n = 1) cancers in Appalachia. Interventions included diverse components: mass media campaigns, community outreach events, community health workers, interpersonal counseling, and educational materials. We found that multi‐strategy interventions had higher screening uptake relative to interventions employing 1 intervention strategy. Studies that targeted noncompliant populations and leveraged existing community‐based organization partnerships had a substantial increase in screening participation versus others.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need for further research and implementation of effective cancer prevention and screening interventions to reduce disparities in cancer morbidity and mortality in Appalachian populations.