bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnography of a Stone
Authors: Hazan Taylor
Published: July 2020

A recent graduate of Kenyon College, I completed theses for both my Anthropology and English majors. In this excerpt from my English capstone project, I explored the idea of ethnography in relation to a subject (anxiety) that cannot speak but is embodied through someone's experiences. The “stone” is the metaphorical iteration of that anxiety, and the “anthropologist” (myself) is interviewing the person most closely linked to the stone (also myself). I also play with the idea of ethnographic research, combining “real” ethnography with lyrical “fake ethnography,” resulting in both an exploration of actor‐network theory and the creation of the “somnoquilogue” method. The piece is both a love letter to anthropology and an attempt to breathe life, empathy, and a bit of humor into my life‐long relationship with an anxiety disorder, and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
HIPEC with cisplatin in a patient with a prior hypersensitivity reaction to systemic oxaliplatin
Authors: Morgan Ryan , Parsad Sandeep , Turaga Kiran K. , Eng Oliver S.
Published: July 2020

Platinum‐based chemotherapeutic agents are commonly used in the treatment of several cancers. While effective, they are often discontinued due to toxicities and hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) that occur more frequently with repeated exposure. Following discontinuation of one agent, therapy may be continued with a second platinum salt, though the cross‐reactivity between agents in this class is not well understood. This is particularly true for alternative routes of administration such as hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). In this case report, we describe the use of cisplatin during HIPEC in a patient who previously experienced an HSR to systemic oxaliplatin. The patient tolerated HIPEC including 200 mg cisplatin for 1 hour without any adverse effects and did not require a desensitization protocol prior to therapy. This case suggests that HIPEC with platinum‐based agents can be performed in patients with prior HSRs to systemic therapy, though further studies are needed to understand safety parameters, the cross‐reactivity between agents and the necessity of skin testing or desensitization protocols.
Enhancing consent forms to support participant decision making in multimodal learning data research
Authors: Beardsley Marc , Martínez Moreno Judit , Vujovic Milica , Santos Patricia , Hernández‐Leo Davinia
Published: July 2020

Advances in the field of multimodal learning analytics (MMLA) research is often accomplished by actively exploring new technologies and techniques related to the collection and analysis of data. Exploration of ethical principles and procedures for governing the use of new technologies and techniques, however, is not as readily pursued. As collected data grow in complexity and invasiveness, potentially, a growing need is arising to scrutinize ethical aspects of MMLA research. In our study, we introduce an informed consent comprehension test for educational technology research and assess the effects of enhancing MMLA consent forms on comprehension of informed consent and on rates of enrollment in a MMLA study. One form is written from a researcher perspective and the other from a participant perspective. Results of the study involving first‐year undergraduate students suggest that the overall level of comprehension did not differ between conditions. Yet, the participant‐oriented consent form resulted in significantly lower rates of enrollment. Implications for MMLA researchers are discussed.
The impact of AI and robotics on physical, social‐emotional and intellectual learning outcomes: An integrated analytical framework
Authors: Salas‐Pilco Sdenka Zobeida
Published: July 2020

This qualitative study examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in learning designs from the perspective of learning sciences. The literature on the topic indicates that there is not enough research on including diverse learning outcomes in the designs for learning. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand how AI and robots impact physical, social‐emotional and intellectual learning outcomes through the implementation of learning designs that are guided by selected design principles. In this study, the design‐based research (DBR) methodology was employed for investigating learning in naturalistic contexts. The intervention was implemented in a primary school in which learners used educational robots. The main findings reveal that the development of an integrated analytical framework, which considers a broader spectrum of human potential, allows for analyzing students’ learning outcomes in a more integral, inclusive and balanced way. This, in turn, promotes students’ learning by using AI and robots. Another finding reveals that the impact of using AI and robotics on learning designs is reflected in learners’ personal trajectories having different pathways and paces. Finally, the lessons learned and the challenges to be overcome are summarized, and recommendations are made for future research for the enhancement of learning experiences that use AI and robotics.
Multimodal data capabilities for learning: What can multimodal data tell us about learning?
Authors: Sharma Kshitij , Giannakos Michail
Published: July 2020

Most research on learning technology uses clickstreams and questionnaires as their primary source of quantitative data. This study presents the outcomes of a systematic literature review of empirical evidence on the capabilities of multimodal data (MMD) for human learning. This paper provides an overview of what and how MMD have been used to inform learning and in what contexts. A search resulted in 42 papers that were included in the analysis. The results of the review depict the capabilities of MMD for learning and the ongoing advances and implications that emerge from the employment of MMD to capture and improve learning. In particular, we identified the six main objectives (ie, behavioral trajectories, learning outcome, learning‐task performance, teacher support, engagement and student feedback) that the MMLA research has been focusing on. We also summarize the implications derived from the reviewed articles and frame them within six thematic areas. Finally, this review stresses that future research should consider developing a framework that would enable MMD capacities to be aligned with the research and learning design (LD). These MMD capacities could also be utilized on furthering theory and practice. Our findings set a baseline to support the adoption and democratization of MMD within future learning technology research and development.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Capturing and measuring learners’ engagement and behavior using MMD has been explored in recent years and exhibits great potential.

There are documented challenges and opportunities associated with capturing, processing, analyzing and interpreting MMD to support human learning.

MMD can provide insights into predicting learning engagement and performance as well as into supporting the process.

What this paper adds

Provides a systematic literature review (SLR) of empirical evidence on MMD for human learning.

Summarizes the insights MMD can give us about the learning outcomes and process.

Identifies challenges and opportunities of MMD to support human learning.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Learning analytics researchers will be able to use the SLR as a guide for future research.

Learning analytics practitioners will be able to use the SLR as a summary of the current state of the field.
Survival following cytoreductive nephrectomy: a comparison of existing prognostic models
Authors: Westerman Mary E. , Shapiro Daniel D. , Tannir Nizar M. , Campbell Matthew T. , Matin Surena F. , Karam Jose A. , Wood Christopher G.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To validate models currently used to predict metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) outcomes in a cohort of patients undergoing cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN).

Patients and methods

A total of 10 RCC prognostic models (International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium [IMDC]; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [MSKCC]; Culp; Leibovich; University of California at Los Angeles Integrated Staging System [UISS]; Stage, Size, Grade, and Necrosis [SSIGN]; Yaycioglu; Karakiewicz; Cindolo; and Margulis) were chosen based on clinical relevance and use in clinical trial design. Model validation was performed using patients who underwent CN at a single institution between 2005 and 2017, and model discrimination (ability to select patients at risk of death) was assessed. Concordance indices (c‐index) were calculated and compared with originally published c‐indices.

Results

A total of 515 CN patients were stratified according to the prognostic models. A total of 387 (75%) died over the study period, with estimated 3‐year survival of 46.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 41.6–50.4%). All models’ discriminatory capacity underperformed when compared to the originally published c‐indices. The c‐indices ranged from 0.53 (95% CI 0.50–0.56) for the Cindolo model to 0.61 (95% CI 0.58–0.64) for the Leibovich model. The MSKCC and IMDC models performed poorly with c‐indices of 0.55 and 0.56, respectively.

Conclusion

Currently used prognostic models have limited discriminatory capacity when applied to a modern cohort of patients undergoing CN. They are inadequate for risk stratification and randomisation in prospective clinical trials of untreated patients with mRCC. Caution should be used when using these models for clinical decision making.
Multinationals, intra‐firm trade and employment volatility
Authors: Kiyota Kozo , Matsuura Toshiyuki , Higuchi Yoshio
Published: July 2020

This paper examines the theoretically ambiguous relationship between the volatility of employment growth and the foreign exposure of firms. We employ unique Japanese firm‐level data during the period of 1994 to 2012. This allows us to investigate any differences in this relationship across multinational firms and trading and non‐trading firms, manufacturing and wholesale trade and intra‐firm and inter‐firm trade. One major finding is that, in manufacturing, employment volatility increases as the share of intra‐firm exports to total sales increases. In contrast, in wholesale trade, employment volatility declines as the share of intra‐firm imports to total imports increases. One possible interpretation of these results is that the transmission of foreign supply and demand shocks could be through not only manufacturing but also wholesale trade firms. Further, a higher share of intra‐firm trade could magnify foreign demand shocks in manufacturing and could mitigate foreign supply shocks in wholesale trade.

Multinationales, commerce intra‐entreprise et volatilité de l’emploi. Cet article analyse le rapport en théorie ambigu entre la volatilité de la croissance de l’emploi et l’exposition des entreprises à l’étranger. Grâce à des données spécifiques recueillies au niveau des entreprises japonaises entre 1994 et 2012, nous pouvons étudier les différences relatives à cette relation pour les entreprises multinationales et les entreprises commerciales et non‐commerciales, le commerce manufacturier et le commerce de gros ainsi que le commerce intra‐entreprise et le commerce inter‐entreprise. L’une des conclusions majeures est que dans le secteur manufacturier, la volatilité de l’emploi diminue à mesure que la part des exportations intra‐entreprise augmente par rapport aux ventes totales. À l’inverse, dans le commerce de gros, la volatilité de l’emploi diminue à mesure que la part des importations intra‐entreprise augmente par rapport aux importations totales. L’une des interprétations possibles de ces résultats est que la transmission des chocs en matière d’offre et de demande étrangère ne passe pas uniquement par les entreprises du secteur manufacturier, mais également par les entreprises du commerce de gros. En outre, une plus grande part de commerce intra‐entreprise pourrait amplifier les chocs en matière de demande étrangère dans le secteur manufacturier, et pourrait atténuer les chocs en matière d’offre étrangère pour le commerce de gros.
Debate: Mentalising remotely – The AFNCCF’s adaptations to the coronavirus crisis
Authors: Fonagy Peter , Campbell Chloe , Truscott Alexandra , Fuggle Peter
Published: July 2020

An overview of the work the approach taken by the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families in the rapid transition to remote working in response to the coronavirus lockdown. We outline some of the challenges of remote working and how we are seeking to mitigate them, informed by the over‐riding principle that individual relationships and the experiences of the child, young person and family must remain the central concern. The importance of maintaining a mentalising stance in remote working is discussed. We argue that a mentalising relationship which generates epistemic trust is possible in remote working, but this will require particular thought and effort on the part of the therapist. In particular, it is suggested that mentalising processes can be supported in remote working through, in the absence of the more implicit communications that are possible in face‐to‐face work, more explicit communications about mental states.
The work of Canadian political staffers in parliamentary caucus research offices
Authors: Wilson R. Paul
Published: July 2020

Since 1970, recognized political parties in the Canadian House of Commons have received funding for caucus research offices. Staffed by political partisans, research offices provide policy, communications, research and administrative support to party leaders and their parliamentary caucuses. This research note examines the evolving organization, work and function of these offices. It demonstrates, first, that the tendency towards centralization, evident in Canadian politics for decades, is clearly reflected in research offices’ primary support for leaders rather than individual caucus members. Second, research offices are integral to parties’ strategic communications and marketing efforts, and this, especially in government, often eclipses their policy contribution. Third, while the government party views caucus researchers as a useful supplement to public service and ministerial office resources, opposition parties rely heavily on their caucus research offices as their dominant source of staff capacity.
Innate IFN‐lambda responses to dsRNA in the human infant airway epithelium and clinical regulatory factors during viral respiratory infections in early life
Authors: Salka Kyle , Arroyo Maria , Chorvinsky Elizabeth , Abutaleb Karima , Perez Geovanny F. , Wolf Seth , Xuchen Xilei , Weinstock Jered , Gutierrez Maria J. , Pérez‐Losada Marcos , Pillai Dinesh K. , Nino Gustavo
Published: July 2020

Introduction

IFN lambda (type III‐IFN‐λ1) is a molecule primarily produced by epithelial cells that provides an important first‐line defence against viral respiratory infections and has been linked to the pathogenesis of viral‐induced wheezing in early life. The goal of this study was to better understand the regulation of innate IFN‐lambda responses in vitro in primary human infant airway epithelial cells (AECs) and in vivo using nasal aspirates during viral respiratory infections.

Methods

IFN‐lambda protein levels were quantified: (a) in human infant AECs exposed to (poly(I:C) dsRNA) under different experimental conditions (n = 8 donors); and (b) in nasal aspirates of young children (≤3 years) hospitalized with viral respiratory infection (n = 138) and in uninfected controls (n = 74). In vivo IFN‐lambda airway levels during viral infections were correlated with individual characteristics and respiratory disease parameters.

Results

Our in vitro experiments showed that the poly(I:C)‐induced innate production of IFN lambda in human infant AECs is regulated by (a) p38‐MAPK/NF‐kB dependent mechanism; and (b) exposure to pro‐inflammatory signals such as IL1β. Our in vivo studies demonstrated that (a) infants (<18 months) had higher virus‐induced IFN‐lambda airway secretion; (b) subjects with RSV infection showed the highest IFN‐lambda airway levels; and (c) individuals with the highest virus‐induced IFN‐lambda levels (>90th percentile) had higher viral loads and were more likely to have respiratory sick visits within 12 months of discharge (OR = 5.8).

Conclusion

IFN‐lambda responses to dsRNA in the human infant airway epithelium are regulated by p38‐MAPK and NF‐kB signalling. High in vivo IFN‐lambda production is influenced by virus type and associated with recurrent respiratory sick visits in young children.
Aromatase deficiency: A case series of 46, XX Chinese children and a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Fan Lijun , Zhang Beibei , Li Lele , Gong Chunxiu
Published: July 2020

Background

Aromatase deficiency (AD) caused by cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A polypeptide 1 (CYP19A1) variants is characterized by a deficiency in androgen‐to‐oestrogen conversion.

Objective

To investigate the clinical characteristics and accurate management of aromatase‐deficient children.

Patients and methods

We described three 46, XX aromatase‐deficient children, searched PubMed with “(aromatase deficiency) AND (46, XX OR ovaries)” and manually searched citations in identified studies for the literature review.

Results

Two girls and one boy (3.4‐9.2 years) with the 46, XX karyotype presented ambiguous genitalia and maternal antenatal virilization, normal‐low height, delayed bone age, normal glucose and lipid profiles, markedly elevated follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and poor oestradiol responses to human menopausal gonadotropin stimulation. Ultrasound revealed normal‐sized uterus and ovaries with undetectable follicles. Histopathology revealed primordial follicles and few primary follicles in ovaries. One patient presented granulosa and follicular membrane cell proliferation and interstitial sclerosis. We identified four CYP19A1 variants; c.146_158del and c.344G >A were unreported. We reviewed available data from thirty 46, XX patients (0.2‐32 years). Some patients were not diagnosed until puberty/adulthood; three were initially misdiagnosed with congenital adrenocortical hyperplasia. The main characteristics were maternal antenatal virilization (21/29), ambiguous genitalia (mainly Prader IV or III, 19/23), delayed bone age (16/17), low bone mass (5/8), markedly elevated FSH levels and ovarian cysts (13/30).

Conclusions

46, XX AD is easily neglected or misdiagnosed. Ambiguous genitalia, maternal antenatal virilization and markedly elevated FSH levels are important diagnostic indicators. We described two novel variants, new histopathological features of ovaries and an early management strategy.
Lovers for a time, mothers for life: Ecosystemic analysis of blended family experiences of lesbian mothers and stepmothers
Authors: Lavoie Kévin , Saint‐Jacques Marie‐Christine
Published: July 2020

This article presents results of a qualitative study of blended lesbian‐headed families with children from previous same‐sex relationships. Conducted in partnership with the LGBT Family Coalition, this study adopts an ecosystemic approach to document the experiences of parental separation and family blending of 17 (n = 17) lesbian mothers and stepmothers in the province of Quebec, Canada. The challenges these women face in these periods of transition, particularly in terms of post‐separation co‐parenting and family reorganization, are analysed with particular concern for the daily stresses of heterosexism and membership in a sexual minority. Various strategies used to overcome these challenges, the positive outcomes of creating blended families and the stepmother's place and role within the family are examined. A discussion of the support and intervention needs of these families concludes the paper.
A case of primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma with immature features in an old man. Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma with immature features or B‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma?
Authors: Ronchi Andrea , Zito Marino Federica , Vitiello Paola , Caccavale Stefano , Argenziano Giuseppe , Crisci Stefania , Franco Renato , Sica Antonello
Published: July 2020

Primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of lymphoid neoplasms primarily occurring in the skin. Although most cases are represented by primary cutaneous follicle center cell lymphoma, primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma and leg‐type diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, other diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas and B‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma may rarely present primarily in the skin. In this setting, the presence of histopathologic and immunohistochemical features of cellular immaturity is exceedingly rare and may represent a diagnostic challenge. We present the first case of a primary cutaneous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma characterized by diminished expression of CD45, expression of TdT and rearrangement of MYC gene. The differential diagnosis mainly included B‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma, and required the genetic analysis of heavy chain (IGH) gene rearrangements.
Intravascular schwannoma: A review of a rare diagnosis
Authors: Dai Annie , Cai Jian‐ping
Published: July 2020

While schwannoma is one of the most common types of benign peripheral nerve tumors in adults, a very unique and specific variant of schwannoma, the intravascular variant, is exceedingly rare. There have only been three previously published cases of intravascular schwannomas. Here we describe a fourth case of an intravascular schwannoma in a 47‐year‐old man with an enlarging subcutaneous nodule on his posterior calf. This is the second case of an intravascular schwannoma contained within a vein. Also included is an overview of intravascular schwannomas, including a description and discussion of the histopathological diagnosis, differential diagnoses, and schwannoma variants.
E pluribus unum and civil harmony at election time
Authors: Peters Ted
Published: July 2020

One way to formulate the task of the public theologian at election time is to interpret America's motto, e pluribus unum (out of many, one). Civility both presumes oneness while promoting oneness. After four years of ceaseless divisiveness from the White House, America needs political leadership that promotes a sense of belonging that includes persons of all races, ethnicities, economic classes, ages, genders, and country of origin. The public theologian combats xenophobia and the fear of replacement by demanding police reform, establishing a comprehensive national health delivery system, and comforting those who are anxious about their future in the unum.
The interaction between host and host plant influences the oviposition and performance of a generalist ectoparasitoid
Authors: Traine Juan , Cuny Maximilien A.C. , Bustos‐Segura Carlos , Benrey Betty
Published: July 2020

The successful development of parasitoids of herbivores depends on the quality of their host, which is often affected by the host plant. Therefore, a parasitoid’s oviposition decisions will directly depend on the host, but also on plant quality. Here, we investigated the direct effects of host species and the indirect effects of the host’s food plant on the oviposition decisions and performance of the gregarious ectoparasitoid Euplectrus platyhypenae Howard (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). With a series of no‐choice experiments, we determined the oviposition and performance of the parasitoid on: (1) two caterpillar species, fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), and velvet armyworm, Spodoptera latifascia Walker, reared on maize (Zea mays L., Poaceae), (2) the same caterpillars reared on maize, bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., Fabaceae), or squash (Cucurbita pepo L., Cucurbitaceae) leaves, and (3) S. latifascia caterpillars reared on leaves of wild and cultivated lima bean, Phaseolus lunatus L. All these insects and plants originate from Mesoamerica where they have coexisted for thousands of years in the traditional agricultural system known as Milpa in which maize, beans, and squash are planted together. We found that the preferred and best combination of host and host plant for parasitoid performance was S. frugiperda on maize. Parasitoids laid larger clutches, had higher survival, and more females and larger adults emerged from S. frugiperda reared on maize. However, when both caterpillar species were reared on squash, S. latifascia was the better host. Contrary to the literature, S. frugiperda was not able to develop on bean plants. Results from the lima bean experiment showed that parasitoid performance was best when S. latifascia was reared on leaves of cultivated compared to wild lima bean. These findings are discussed in the context of mixed cropping in which the ability of generalist parasitoids to switch among hosts and host plant species could be advantageous for pest management.
Nonlinearity in interspecific interactions in response to climate change: Cod and haddock as an example
Authors: Durant Joël M. , Ono Kotaro , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Langangen Øystein
Published: July 2020

Climate change has profound ecological effects, yet our understanding of how trophic interactions among species are affected by climate change is still patchy. The sympatric Atlantic haddock and cod are co‐occurring across the North Atlantic. They compete for food at younger stages and thereafter the former is preyed by the latter. Climate change might affect the interaction and coexistence of these two species. Particularly, the increase in sea temperature (ST) has been shown to affect distribution, population growth and trophic interactions in marine systems. We used 33‐year long time series of haddock and cod abundances estimates from two data sources (acoustic and trawl survey) to analyse the dynamic effect of climate on the coexistence of these two sympatric species in the Arcto‐Boreal Barents Sea. Using a Bayesian state‐space threshold model, we demonstrated that long‐term climate variation, as expressed by changes of ST, affected species demography through different influences on density‐independent processes. The interaction between cod and haddock has shifted in the last two decades due to an increase in ST, altering the equilibrium abundances and the dynamics of the system. During warm years (ST over ca. 4°C), the increase in the cod abundance negatively affected haddock abundance while it did not during cold years. This change in interactions therefore changed the equilibrium population size with a higher population size during warm years. Our analyses show that long‐term climate change in the Arcto‐Boreal system can generate differences in the equilibrium conditions of species assemblages.
A critical evaluation of the material properties and clinical suitability of in‐house printed and commercial tooth replicas for endodontic training
Authors: Reymus M. , Stawarczyk B. , Winkler A. , Ludwig J. , Kess S. , Krastl G. , Krug R.
Published: July 2020

Aim

To assess the suitability of several 3D‐printed resins for the manufacturing of tooth replicas for endodontic training in comparison with commercially available replicas by analysing the properties of the materials and comparing them with real teeth during endodontic training.

Methodology

Tooth replicas were 3D‐printed using four resins (NextDent Model, NextDent C&B, V‐Print ee and Vero White Plus) and compared with two commercially available products (VDW and Smile Factory) as well as extracted human teeth. Martens hardness, indentation modulus and radiopacity were investigated on these tooth replicas. Experienced dentists evaluated the suitability of the replicas for endodontic training by comparing them with real teeth in terms of appearance, anatomy, radiopacity, similarity to dentine during access opening, canal gauging and canal instrumentation. Data were analysed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results

The greatest hardness values were recorded for human dentine (P < 0.001), followed by V‐Print ee and the commercial tooth replica of Smile Factory. The greatest radiopacity was associated with VOC and dentine (P < 0.001) in comparison with the other materials tested. The appearance of the in‐house printed tooth replicas was subjectively evaluated by the dentists as being more realistic than the commercially available products. No differences between the replicas was detected during mechanical instrumentation of root canals.

Conclusion

None of the tooth replicas were able to simulate human dentine from the perspectives evaluated. V‐Print ee had radiopacity comparable with dentine, but its hardness was not comparable with dentine.
Retrieving a Mature Reformed Doctrine of Original Sin: A Conversation with Some Recent Proposals
Authors: Leslie Andrew M.
Published: July 2020

A ‘broadly Augustinian’ doctrine of original sin continues to receive support in contemporary Catholic and Protestant theological discourse as the best account of human experience and biblical teaching. Notwithstanding this, substantial challenges arise in connection with this doctrine which Catholics and Protestants have classically sought to address in their own ways. With a contemporary Protestant audience in mind, I attempt to rehabilitate the theological viability of the oft‐criticized mature Reformed doctrine of original sin which entails the immediate imputation of Adamic guilt. In dialogue with some recent dogmatic contributions, I draw upon eloquent advocates of the Reformed doctrine, such as Petrus van Mastricht and Francis Turretin, to argue that the notion of immediate imputation continues to provide a coherent and biblically defensible explanation for the just imposition of inherited corruption. Faring somewhat better than other proposals, it deserves reconsideration in contemporary reconstructions of the doctrine, especially in those which might self‐consciously seek to identify with the Protestant confessional tradition.
Detecting pathogenic variants in autoimmune diseases using high‐throughput sequencing
Authors: Field Matt A
Published: July 2020

Sequencing the first human genome in 2003 took 15 years and cost $2.7 billion. Advances in sequencing technologies have since decreased costs to the point where it is now feasible to resequence a whole human genome for $1000 in a single day. These advances have allowed the generation of huge volumes of high‐quality human sequence data used to construct increasingly large catalogs of both population‐level and disease‐causing variation. The existence of such databases, coupled with a high‐quality human reference genome, means we are able to interrogate and annotate all types of genetic variation and identify pathogenic variants for many diseases. Increasingly, sequencing‐based approaches are being used to elucidate the underlying genetic cause of autoimmune diseases, a group of roughly 80 polygenic diseases characterized by abnormal immune responses where healthy tissue is attacked. Although sequence data generation has become routine and affordable, significant challenges remain with no gold‐standard methodology to identify pathogenic variants currently available. This review examines the latest methodologies used to identify pathogenic variants in autoimmune diseases and considers available sequencing options and subsequent bioinformatic methodologies and strategies. The development of reliable and robust sequencing and analytic workflows to detect pathogenic variants is critical to realize the potential of precision medicine programs where patient variant information is used to inform clinical practice.
Brucella abortus–infected platelets modulate the activation of neutrophils
Authors: Trotta Aldana , Milillo M Ayelén , Serafino Agustina , Castillo Luis A , Birnberg Weiss Federico , Delpino M Victoria , Giambartolomei Guillermo H , Fernández Gabriela C , Barrionuevo Paula
Published: July 2020

Brucellosis is a contagious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. Platelets (PLTs) have been widely involved in the modulation of the immune response. We have previously reported the modulation of Brucella abortus–mediated infection of monocytes. As a result, PLTs cooperate with monocytes and increase their inflammatory capacity, promoting the resolution of the infection. Extending these results, in this study we demonstrate that patients with brucellosis present slightly elevated levels of complexes between PLTs and both monocytes and neutrophils. We then assessed whether PLTs were capable of modulating functional aspects of neutrophils. The presence of PLTs throughout neutrophil infection increased the production of interleukin‐8, CD11b surface expression and reactive oxygen species formation, whereas it decreased the expression of CD62L, indicating an activated status of these cells. We next analyzed whether this modulation was mediated by released factors. To discriminate between these options, neutrophils were treated with supernatants collected from B. abortus–infected PLTs. Our results show that CD11b expression was induced by soluble factors of PLTs but direct contact between cell populations was needed to enhance the respiratory burst. Additionally, B. abortus–infected PLTs recruit polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells to the site of infection. Finally, the presence of PLTs did not modify the initial invasion of PMN cells by B. abortus but improved the control of the infection at extended times. Altogether, our results demonstrate that PLTs interact with neutrophils and promote a proinflammatory phenotype which could also contribute to the resolution of the infection.
Hemocyte‐specific FREP13 abrogates the exogenous bacterial population in the hemolymph and promotes midgut endosymbionts in Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Chauhan Charu , Das De Tanwee , Kumari Seena , Rani Jyoti , Sharma Punita , Tevatiya Sanjay , Pandey Kailash C , Pande Veena , Dixit Rajnikant
Published: July 2020

The immune blood cells “hemocytes” of mosquitoes impart a highly selective immune response against various microorganisms/pathogens. Among several immune effectors, fibrinogen‐related proteins (FREPs) have been recognized as key modulators of cellular immune responses; however, their physiological relevance has not been investigated in detail. Our ongoing comparative RNA‐sequencing analysis identified a total of 13 FREPs originating from naïve sugar‐fed, blood‐fed, bacterial challenged and Plasmodium vivax–infected hemocytes in Anopheles stephensi. Transcriptional profiling of the selected seven FREP transcripts showed distinct responses against different pathophysiological conditions, where an exclusive induction of FREP12 after 10 days of P. vivax infection was observed. This represents a possible role of FREP12 in immunity against free circulating sporozoites and needs to be explored in the future. When challenged with live bacterial injection in the thorax, we observed a higher affinity of FREP13 and FREP65 toward Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria in the mosquito hemocytes, respectively. Furthermore, we observed increased bacterial survival and proliferation, which is likely compromised by the downregulation of TEP1, in FREP13 messenger RNA–depleted mosquito hemolymph. In contrast, after blood‐feeding, we also noticed a significant delay of 24 h in the enrichment of gut endosymbionts in the FREP13‐silenced mosquitoes. Taken together, we conclude that hemocyte‐specific FREP13 carries the unique ability of tissue‐specific regulation, having an antagonistic antibacterial role in the hemolymph, and an agonistic role against gut endosymbionts.
Mn‐ and Mn/Cu‐doped PIN‐PMN‐PT piezoelectric ceramics for high‐power transducers
Authors: Watson Beecher H. , Brova Michael J. , Fanton Mark A. , Meyer Richard J. , Messing Gary L.
Published: July 2020

The effects of acceptor doping with manganese as either MnO2 or MnNb2O6 (MnN) with CuO on the dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of PIN‐PMN‐PT ceramics were investigated. The 2% MnNb2O6‐doped PIN‐PMN‐PT (6Pb(Mn1/3Nb2/3)O3‐25Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3‐34Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐35PbTiO3) ceramics possessed hard properties such as high coercive field (EC) of 11.7 kV/cm, low dielectric loss (tan δ) of 0.7%, and high electromechanical quality factor (QM) of 1011. These properties were diminished in MnO2‐doped ceramics because of lower oxygen vacancy defect concentration, and exaggerated grain growth resulted in >20 µm grain size. Co‐doping with 2 mol% MnNb2O6 and 0.5 mol% CuO retained hardened properties such as high EC of 9.6 kV/cm, low tan δ of 0.6%, and high QM of 1029. MnNb2O6‐doped and MnNb2O6 + Cu co‐doped ceramics display excellent figures of merit for resonance and off‐resonance applications as well as high energy conversion efficiencies which make them promising candidates for high‐power transducer elements.
Testing trade‐offs and the dominance–impoverishment rule among ant communities
Authors: Sheard Julie K. , Nelson Annika S. , Berggreen Jeppe D. , Boulay Raphael , Dunn Robert R. , Sanders Nathan J.
Published: July 2020

Aim

Ant communities are believed to be structured by competition, with dominant species competitively excluding subordinates (the dominance–impoverishment rule). However, a high number of seemingly similar species coexist, possibly due to interspecific trade‐offs. Here, we examine the evidence for the dominance–impoverishment rule across a broad latitudinal gradient and explore whether trade‐offs explain coexistence within and among ant communities.

Location

40 sites in 19 countries across Europe, western North America and northern South America.

Taxon

Formicidae.

Methods

We conducted 2‐hr baiting experiments at each site. Three dominance scores were calculated for each species at each site where it occurred. We then examined the relationship between ant dominance and diversity and tested for the generality of three trade‐offs (dominance–discovery, dominance–thermal tolerance and dominance–generalism) within and among ant communities along with the possible effects of environmental variables on these trade‐offs.

Results

We found no support for the dominance–impoverishment rule. Instead, overall species richness at baits was positively correlated with the number of dominant species and exhibited a unimodal relationship with the relative abundance of dominant ants. Moreover, we found little consistent evidence for the three interspecific trade‐offs.

Main conclusion

Although total species richness at baits is positively correlated with species richness of dominant species and, to a point, increasing worker numbers of dominants, trade‐offs among species do not appear to shape broad‐scale patterns of coexistence among ants. Species richness declines only when the numbers of dominant workers are very high. Together, these results suggest that while trade‐offs and the dominance–impoverishment rule might promote coexistence or shape ant communities in some locations, the evidence for their being general across communities is scant.
The co‐occurrence between symptoms of internet gaming disorder and psychiatric disorders in childhood and adolescence: prospective relations or common causes?
Authors: Hygen Beate Wold , Skalická Věra , Stenseng Frode , Belsky Jay , Steinsbekk Silje , Wichstrøm Lars
Published: July 2020

Background

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is highlighted as a condition for further study in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM‐5). Some studies indicate that IGD appears comorbid with other psychiatric disorders. We examine concurrent and prospective links between symptoms of IGD and symptoms of common psychiatric disorders in childhood and adolescence to determine whether observed comorbidity is a result of (a) reciprocal relations or (b) common underlying causes.

Methods

A community sample (n = 702) of Norwegian children completed the Internet Gaming Disorder Interview (IGDI) to assess DSM‐5 defined IGD symptoms at ages 10, 12 and 14 years. The Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Assessment (CAPA) assessed symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) at the same time points.

Results

A Random Intercept Cross‐lagged Panel Model (RI‐CLPM), which captures pure within‐person changes and adjusts for all unmeasured time‐invariant factors (e.g., genetics, parent education) revealed no associations between IGD symptoms and psychopathology, except that increased IGD symptoms at ages 10 and 12 predicted decreased symptoms of anxiety two years later.

Conclusions

No support emerged for concurrent or prospective relations between IGD and psychiatric symptoms, except in one case: increased IGD symptoms forecasted reduction in anxiety symptoms. Observed co‐occurrence between IGD symptoms and mental health problems can mainly be attributed to common underlying factors.
Effects of ipragliflozin versus metformin in combination with sitagliptin on bone and muscle in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Subanalysis of a prospective, randomized, controlled study (PRIME‐V study)
Authors: Koshizaka Masaya , Ishikawa Ko , Ishibashi Ryoichi , Maezawa Yoshiro , Sakamoto Kenichi , Uchida Daigaku , Nakamura Susumu , Yamaga Masaya , Yokoh Hidetaka , Kobayashi Akina , Onishi Shunichiro , Kobayashi Kazuki , Ogino Jun , Hashimoto Naotake , Tokuyama Hirotake , Shimada Fumio , Ohara Emi , Ishikawa Takahiro , Shoji Mayumi , Ide Shintaro , Ide Kana , Baba Yusuke , Hattori Akiko , Kitamoto Takumi , Horikoshi Takuro , Shimofusa Ryouta , Takahashi Sho , Nagashima Kengo , Sato Yasunori , Takemoto Minoru , Newby L. Kristin , Yokote Koutaro ,   the PRIME‐V study group
Published: July 2020

Aims/Introduction

Recent randomized clinical trials have suggested that sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors might reduce cardiovascular events and heart failure, and have renal protective effects. Despite these remarkable benefits, the effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on bone and muscle are unclear.

Materials and Methods

A subanalysis of a randomized controlled study was carried out to evaluate the effects of the sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, ipragliflozin, versus metformin on bone and muscle in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (baseline body mass index ≥22 kg/m2 and hemoglobin A1c 7–10%) who were already receiving sitagliptin. These patients were randomly administered ipragliflozin 50 mg or metformin 1,000–1,500 mg daily. The effects of these medications on the bone formation marker, bone alkali phosphatase; the bone resorption marker, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP‐5b); handgrip strength; abdominal cross‐sectional muscle area; and bone density of the fourth lumbar vertebra were evaluated.

Results

After 24 weeks of treatment, the changes in bone density of the fourth lumbar vertebra, handgrip strength and abdominal cross‐sectional muscle area were not significantly different between the two groups. However, TRACP‐5b levels increased in patients treated with ipragliflozin compared with patients treated with metformin (median 11.94 vs −10.30%, P < 0.0001), showing that ipragliflozin can promote bone resorption.

Conclusions

There were no adverse effects on bone or muscle when sitagliptin was used in combination with either ipragliflozin or metformin. However, ipragliflozin combination increased the levels of TRACP‐5b. A long‐term study is required to further understand the effects of this TRACP‐5b increase caused by ipragliflozin.
First Report of Blastocystis Infection in Pigs from Large Farms in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang Rongjun , Zhang Ying , Jiang Yuxi , Xing Jinming , Tao Dayong , Qi Meng
Published: July 2020

Blastocystis is a common intestinal protozoan in humans and various animals worldwide. A few studies have reported the genetic characterization of Blastocystis in pigs in China, but no epidemiological data are available from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. In this study, 801 fecal samples were collected from seven scale pig farms in Xinjiang and tested by polymerase chain reaction and sequence analysis of the partial SSU rRNA gene. The average infection rate of Blastocystis was 21.7% (174/801), with 7.1% in preweaning piglets, 10.0% in postweaning piglets, 31.8% in fattening pigs, and 41.9% in sows (χ2 = 104.89; P < 0.01). Blastocystis subtypes ST1 (7/174), ST3 (2/174), and ST5 (165/174) were identified, with subtype ST5 being predominant in each of the pig farms and in each of the age groups. ST3 and ST5 were identified in preweaning piglets, and ST1, ST3, and ST5 were identified in postweaning piglets. In contrast, only the subtype ST5 was observed in fattening pigs and sows. Genetic polymorphisms were observed at the intrasubtype level, including two variations of ST1 (ST1A, ST1B), and seven of ST5 (ST5A to ST5G), by sequence alignment analysis and phylogenetic analysis. More studies are needed to elucidate the transmission and public health significance of Blastocystis in pigs in various areas.
Efficacy of IPL therapy for the treatment of acne vulgaris: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lu Lingling , Shi Meiling , Chen Zhiwei
Published: July 2020

Background

Intense pulse light (IPL) has been adopted by numerous patients. However, no existing study has analyzed the efficiency and safety of IPL in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Objective

To assess the efficiency and safety of IPL in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Methods

Electronic databases, including Embase, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE, were retrieved to identify related studies. In this study, the primary and secondary outcomes were the mean percentage reduction of inflammatory acne lesion improvement (MPRI) and the mean percentage reduction of noninflammatory acne lesion improvement (NMPRI), respectively. Between‐study heterogeneities were assessed using the I 2 statistic.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 450 patients were enrolled into the present analysis. With regard to MPRI, the result of IPL group was poorer than that of control group [mean deviation (MD) = −4.37 (95% confidence interval CI: −7.83, −0.91),P = .01]. In addition, the efficiency of IPL was poor among African and Asian populations [MD = −3.87 (95% CI: −7.36, −0.37),P = .03; MD = −28.37 (95% CI: −52.26, −4.18),P = .02]. Meanwhile, difference in the efficiency between IPL and 1064 nm Nd:YAG was not statistically significant [MD = −3.25 (95% CI: −7.01, −0.51).P = .09]. Besides, the efficiency of IPL was lower than that of PDL [MD = −28.37 (95% CI: −52.26, −4.18),P = .02]. There was no statistically significant difference in the efficiency between IPL and other treatments for NMPRI. With regard to adverse effects, erythema (46.73%) and pain (39.13%) were the most common.

Conclusions

IPL is not so efficient as other supplementary therapies. For inflammatory acne lesions, the efficiency of IPL is poorer than that of PDT. Difference in geographic regions may affect the IPL efficiency. However, the results obtained in this study should be cautiously interpreted due to the heterogeneities and the lack of studies with a large sample size.