bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serious adverse events reported from the COVID-19 vaccines: A descriptive study based on WHO database
Authors: Dutta Siddhartha , Kaur Rimple Jeet , Charan Jaykaran , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Sharma Praveen , Ambwani Sneha , Haque Mainul , Tandon Ankita , Abhayanand Jha Pallavi , Sukhija Sanchi , Suman S V , Misra Sanjeev
Published: March 2021

Background

In the light of current pandemic, the emergency approval of few COVID-19 vaccines seems to provide a ray of hope. However, their approval is solely based on limited data available from the clinical trials in a short period of time; thereby imposing a necessity to study the adverse events(AEs) associated with their use. This study therefore aims to assess the Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) associated with various COVID-19 vaccines reported in the WHO database (VigiBase®).

Methods

The data from VigiBase® was analyzed to assess the reported SAEs linked to various COVID-19 vaccines. The duplicates in the data were removed and were analyzed on the basis of age, gender, and seriousness of adverse events at the System Organ Classification (SOC) level and the individual Preferred Term (PT) level.

Results

A total 103954 adverse events reported from 32044 subjects were taken for analysis. Of 32044 subjects, majority were females (80%). Also, a total of 28799 (27.7%) SAEs were reported from the 8007 individuals. Most of the SAEs were observed in Europe (83%) amongst females (79.4%) between 18 to 64 years (80.74%) of age. Majority of SAEs (74%) were reported for BNT162b2 (Pfizer) vaccine. On system wise classification, general disorders (30%) were the commonest followed by nervous system (19.1%) and musculoskeletal (11.2%) disorders. In individual category, headache (8.1%) was the commonest, followed by pyrexia (7%) and fatigue (5.1%). The number of SAEs were reported with various vaccines were comparatively lesser as compared to the non-serious ones and incidence of death was low with all the vaccines candidates. Elderly (> 65 years) people reported more serious AEFIs as compared to other age groups.

Conclusion

The reported SAEs from the COVID–19 vaccines were in line with the data published in clinical trials. To link these SAEs to vaccines will need causality analysis and review of individual reports.
High resolution ultrasonic neural modulation observed viain vivotwo-photon calcium imaging
Authors: Cheng Zongyue , Wang Chenmao , Wei Bowen , Gan Wenbiao , Zhou Qifa , Cui Meng
Published: March 2021

Neural modulation plays a major role in delineating the circuit mechanisms and serves as the cornerstone of neural interface technologies. Among the various modulation mechanisms, ultrasound enables noninvasive label-free deep access to mammalian brain tissue. To date, most if not all ultrasonic neural modulation implementations are based on ∼1 MHz carrier frequency. The long acoustic wavelength results in a spatially coarse modulation zone, often spanning over multiple function regions. The modulation of one brain region is inevitably linked with the modulation of its neighboring regions. To significantly increase the spatial resolution, we explored the application of high-frequency ultrasound. To investigate the neuronal response at cellular resolutions, we developed a dual-modality system combiningin vivotwo-photon calcium imaging and focused ultrasound modulation. The studies show that the ∼30 MHz ultrasound can suppress the neuronal activity in awake mice at 100-micron scale spatial resolutions, paving the way for high-resolution ultrasonic neural modulation.
A deep-sea sulfate reducing bacterium directs the formation of zero-valent sulfur via sulfide oxidation
Authors: Liu Rui , Shan Yeqi , Xi Shichuan , Zhang Xin , Sun Chaomin
Published: March 2021

Zero-valent sulfur (ZVS) is a critical intermediate in the biogeochemical sulfur cycle. Up to date, sulfur oxidizing bacteria have been demonstrated to dominate the formation of ZVS. In contrast, formation of ZVS mediated by sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) has been rarely reported. Here, we report for the first time that a typical sulfate reducing bacteriumDesulfovibrio marinusCS1 directs the formation of ZVS via sulfide oxidation. In combination with proteomic analysis and protein activity assays, thiosulfate reductase (PhsA) and sulfide: quinone oxidoreductase (SQR) were demonstrated to play key roles in driving ZVS formation. In this process, PhsA catalyzed thiosulfate to form sulfide, which was then oxidized by SQR to form ZVS. Consistently, the expressions of PhsA and SQR were significantly up-regulated in strain CS1 when cultured in the deep-sea cold seep, strongly indicating strain CS1 might form ZVS in its real inhabiting niches. Notably, homologs ofphsAandsqrwidely distributed in the metagenomes of deep-sea SRB. Given the high abundance of SRB in cold seeps, it is reasonable to propose that SRB might greatly contribute to the formation of ZVS in the deep-sea environments. Our findings add a new aspect to the current understanding of the source of ZVS.
Tribal women’s work-life balance: an identity-based approach
Authors: Nath Koel , Dwivedi Rohit
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the work-life balance (WLB) experiences of tribal working women belonging to the matrilineal Khasi and Jaintia communities of Meghalaya, India, using an identity-based approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews conducted with 18 tribal women working in the formal sector helped generate descriptions of the subjective subliminal tensions they experienced in their efforts to balance work and home life.

Findings

Six key themes emerged: webs of role-based responsibilities; reframing family around work; revising self-identity through work; challenges and coping tactics; traditional community influences on management of work and home life; and enacting womanhood as problem-solving.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the literature on women and WLB in that it expands the theoretical understanding of the impact of identity work on women’s WLB.

Practical implications

A healthy WLB is crucial for enhanced intrinsic motivation and consequently women’s psychological empowerment and career satisfaction. This has important social and practical implications for enriching tribal women’s quality of life in India and facilitating their contribution towards the betterment of their communities and the economy at large. To this end, policymakers should launch awareness campaigns pertaining to tribal women’s WLB, to aid organizations in rolling-out contextually relevant work-life management programmes for these women.

Originality/value

This study extends an identity-based approach as a general theory of the self to examine matrilineal tribal women's WLB construction as a distinct form of “doing” and “being”.
Innovation dynamics in the Brazilian industrial sector: scenario and reflexions
Authors: Cirani Claudia Brito Silva , da Silva José Jaconias , Cassia Adalberto Ramos , Pedro Samara de Carvalho
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the innovation overview of the Brazilian industrial sector using data published by innovation survey – PINTEC. The aim was to provide a macro and updated diagnosis of the innovation scenario in Brazil and build reflections for further studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used information from the years 1998–2014 covered by PINTEC to analyze innovation indicators, namely, innovation types, problems and obstacles, novelty degree, established partnerships and interactions, as well as governmental incentives. This study is exploratory; thus, descriptive methods were used for data presentation through analyses and presented through figures and tables.

Findings

The results show that innovation of the Brazilian industrial sector is concentrated mainly in the acquisition of machinery and equipment, innovations that already exist in national or global markets, interactions for the innovation process with suppliers and governmental support for financing machinery and equipment acquisitions.

Originality/value

This study has relevance, as its results provide important subsidies for policy-makers to incorporate the needs and overcome challenges of innovation in Brazil.
Coordination of paediatric oncology care: an explorative Swedish case study
Authors: Gadolin Christian , Eriksson Erik , Alexandersson Patrik
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to empirically describe and analyze factors deemed to be relevant for the successful provision of coordinated paediatric oncology care by physicians and nurses involved.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study primarily consisting of interviews.

Findings

The paper's findings indicate that certain factors (i.e. distinct mission, clear treatment protocols and support from external stakeholders) relevant for the provision of coordinated paediatric oncology care have not received sufficient attention in previous research. In addition, emphasis is placed on the necessity of facilitating constructive working relationships and a bottom-up perspective when pursuing improved care coordination.

Originality/value

The factors described and analyzed may act as insights for how paediatric oncology might be improved in terms of care coordination and thus facilitate care integration. In addition, the paper's findings identify factors relevant for further empirical studies in order to delineate their generalizability.
Sports celebrity personality and purchase intention: the role of endorser-brand congruence, brand credibility and brand image transfer
Authors: Rai Jaskirat Singh , Yousaf Anish , Itani Maher N. , Singh Amanpreet
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of five sports celebrity personality (SCP) attributes – attractiveness, expertise level, credibility, trustworthiness and character – on consumers' purchase intentions (CPI). It identifies celebrity brand congruence (CBC), endorsed brand celebrity (EBC) and transfer of brand image (TBI) as antecedents of CPI.

Design/methodology/approach

The purposive sampling technique was used to collect the data from 838 respondents. This study developed a multidimensional construct for SCP. The covariance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was used to examine the relationship between SCP and the endorsed brand. The study used CBC as a mediator and EBC and TBI as partial mediators. The direct and indirect effect of SCP on CPI was investigated using CBC, EBC and TBI as mediators.

Findings

This study supports the importance of three antecedents (i.e. CBC, EBC and TBI) on CPI. It finds congruence across SCP and CBC variables, and a positive impact of SCP on EBC and TBI variables. Also, it exhibits a significant direct effect of CBC on EBC and TBI, whereas the direct effect of CBC on CPI is not substantial. The indirect effect of CBC through mediating variables EBC and TBI found to be significant.

Research limitations/implications

This study concludes that sports celebrity endorsement is essential to transfer the positive celebrity image to the endorsed brand image. However, it is not merely sufficient to influence the buyers' purchase conduct; the brand credibility additionally assumes to take a role in changing their behavioral intentions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the sports marketing literature by its novelty in analyzing the sports celebrity personality at a multidimensional level. It uses SCP's different attributes as one construct and studies its impact on CPI by taking CBC, EBC and TBI as mediators. The results of this study equip sports management professionals with the knowledge to build better long-term relationships with consumers.
Initial abundance and stochasticity influence competitive outcome in communities
Authors: Dallas Tad , Melbourne Brett A. , Legault Geoffrey , Hastings Alan
Published: March 2021

Predicting competitive outcomes in communities frequently involves inferences based on deterministic population models since these provide clear criteria for exclusion (e.g. R* rule) or long‐term coexistence (e.g. mutual invasibility).

However, incorporating stochasticity into population‐ or community‐level processes into models is necessary if the goal is to explain variation in natural systems, which are inherently stochastic.

Similarly, in systems with demographic or environmental stochasticity, weaker competitors have the potential to exclude superior competitors, contributing to what is known as ‘competitive indeterminacy’. The importance of such effects for natural communities is unknown, in part because it is difficult to demonstrate that multiple forms of stochasticity are present in these communities. Moreover, the effects of multiple forms of stochasticity on competitive outcomes are largely untested, even in theory.

Here, we address these issues by examining the role of stochasticity in replicated communities of flour beetles (Tribolium sp.). To do so, we developed a set of two‐species stochastic Ricker models incorporating four distinct forms of stochasticity: environmental stochasticity, demographic stochasticity, demographic heterogeneity and stochastic sex determination.

By fitting models to experimental data, and simulating fit models to examine long‐ term behaviour, we found that both the duration of transient coexistence and the degree of competitive indeterminacy were sensitive to the forms of stochasticity included in our models. These findings suggest the current estimates of extinction risk, coexistence and time until competitive exclusion in communities may not be accurate when based on models that exclude relevant forms of stochasticity.
Automatic inference of demographic parameters using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Wang Zhanpeng , Wang Jiaping , Kourakos Michael , Hoang Nhung , Lee Hyong Hark , Mathieson Iain , Mathieson Sara
Published: March 2021

Population genetics relies heavily on simulated data for validation, inference and intuition. In particular, since the evolutionary ‘ground truth’ for real data is always limited, simulated data are crucial for training supervised machine learning methods. Simulation software can accurately model evolutionary processes but requires many hand‐selected input parameters. As a result, simulated data often fail to mirror the properties of real genetic data, which limits the scope of methods that rely on it. Here, we develop a novel approach to estimating parameters in population genetic models that automatically adapts to data from any population. Our method, pg‐gan, is based on a generative adversarial network that gradually learns to generate realistic synthetic data. We demonstrate that our method is able to recover input parameters in a simulated isolation‐with‐migration model. We then apply our method to human data from the 1000 Genomes Project and show that we can accurately recapitulate the features of real data.
The Identification and Geological Significance of Fault Buried in the Gasikule Salt Lake in China based on the Multi‐source Remote Sensing Data
Authors: WANG Junhu , ZHAO Yingjun , WU Ding , LU Donghua
Published: March 2021

The salinity of the salt lake is an important factor to evaluate whether it contains some mineral resources or not, the fault buried in the salt lake could control the abundance of the salinity. Therefore, it is of great geological importance to identify the fault buried in the salt lake. Taking the Gasikule Salt Lake in China for example, the paper established a new method to identify the fault buried in the salt lake based on the multi‐source remote sensing data including Landsat TM, SPOT‐5 and ASTER data. It includes the acquisition and selection of the multi‐source remote sensing data, data preprocessing, lake waterfront extraction, spectrum extraction of brine with different salinity, salinity index construction, salinity separation, analysis of the abnormal salinity and identification of the fault buried in salt lake, temperature inversion of brine and the fault verification. As a result, the study identified an important fault buried in the east of the Gasikule Salt Lake that controls the highest salinity abnormal. Because the level of the salinity is positively correlated to the mineral abundance, the result provides the important reference to identify the water body rich in mineral resources in the salt lake.
VPS35 D620N knockin mice recapitulate cardinal features of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Niu Mengyue , Zhao Fanpeng , Bondelid Karina , Siedlak Sandra L. , Torres Sandy , Fujioka Hisashi , Wang Wenzhang , Liu Jun , Zhu Xiongwei
Published: March 2021

D620N mutation in the vacuolar protein sorting 35 ortholog (VPS35) gene causes late‐onset, autosomal dominant familial Parkinson's disease (PD) and contributes to idiopathic PD. However, how D620N mutation leads to PD‐related deficits in vivo remains unclear. In the present study, we thoroughly characterized the biochemical, pathological, and behavioral changes of a VPS35 D620N knockin (KI) mouse model with chronic aging. We reported that this VPS35 D620N KI model recapitulated a spectrum of cardinal features of PD at 14 months of age which included age‐dependent progressive motor deficits, significant changes in the levels of dopamine (DA) and DA metabolites in the striatum, and robust neurodegeneration of the DA neurons in the SNpc and DA terminals in the striatum, accompanied by increased neuroinflammation, and accumulation and aggregation of α‐synuclein in DA neurons. Mechanistically, D620N mutation induced mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction in aged mice likely through enhanced VPS35‐DLP1 interaction and increased turnover of mitochondrial DLP1 complexes in vivo. Finally, the VPS35 D620N KI mice displayed greater susceptibility to MPTP‐mediated degeneration of nigrostriatal pathway, indicating that VPS35 D620N mutation increased vulnerability of DA neurons to environmental toxins. Overall, this VPS35 D620N KI mouse model provides a powerful tool for future disease modeling and pharmacological studies of PD. Our data support the involvement of VPS35 in the development of α‐synuclein pathology in vivo and revealed the important role of mitochondrial fragmentation/dysfunction in the pathogenesis of VPS35 D620N mutation‐associated PD in vivo.
Insomnia treatment effects among young adult drinkers: Secondary outcomes of a randomized pilot trial
Authors: Miller Mary Beth , Freeman Lindsey , Park Chan Jeong , Hall Nicole A. , Deroche Chelsea , Sahota Pradeep K. , McCrae Christina S.
Published: March 2021

Background

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) has moderate‐to‐large effects on insomnia among young adult drinkers, with preliminary data indicating that improvements in insomnia may have downstream effects on alcohol‐related consequences. However, the mechanism(s) by which insomnia treatment may facilitate reductions in alcohol‐related problems is unclear. Secondary outcome data from a randomized pilot trial were used to examine CBT‐I effects on four proposed mediators of the insomnia/alcohol link: alcohol craving, delay discounting, negative affect, and difficulties with emotion regulation.

Methods

Young adults (ages 18 to 30 years) with insomnia who reported 1+ binge drinking episode (4/5+ drinks for women/men) in the past month were randomized to receive CBT‐I (n = 28) or to a sleep hygiene control (n = 28). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, after 5 weeks of treatment, and at 1‐month posttreatment.

Results

Relative to those in sleep hygiene, CBT‐I participants reported greater decreases in alcohol craving (d = 0.33) at the end of treatment and greater 1‐month posttreatment decreases in delay discounting of large rewards (d = 0.42). CBT‐I did not have a significant effect on delay discounting of smaller rewards or momentary negative affect. There was also no significant treatment effect on difficulties with emotion regulation, although findings were confounded by a significant group difference at baseline in difficulties with emotion regulation.

Conclusions

Treatment of insomnia may lead to improvements in alcohol craving and delay discounting of large rewards among young adult drinkers with insomnia. Additional research examining whether improvement in insomnia is a mechanism for improvement in addiction domains is warranted.
Risk contagion of global stock markets under COVID‐19:A network connectedness method
Authors: Yu Honghai , Chu Wangyu , Ding Yu’ang , Zhao Xuezhou
Published: March 2021

COVID‐19 spread throughout the world during 2020, bringing an increase in global financial risk. We use connectedness network to investigate the risk contagion among global stock markets during the COVID‐19 pandemic and analyse its source. Furthermore, we use spectrum analysis to explore the risk contagion effects on different frequency bands, which allows us to explore its speed and channels. We find that the United Kingdom and Italy are core transmitters of risks, and connectedness is mainly driven by low‐frequency components, which demonstrates that the risks are spread by affecting supply chains in global markets and investors’ long‐term expectations for the economy.
The impact of IFRS 10 on consolidated financial reporting
Authors: Bedford Anna , Bugeja Martin , Ma Nelson
Published: March 2021

This study examines the impact of IFRS 10 adoption on consolidated financial reports. Our evidence suggests that the new standard is associated with firms consolidating fewer subsidiaries and consolidating fewer subsidiaries with non‐majority ownership. The results also indicate that the effects of IFRS 10 adoption are associated with financial reporting incentives. Finally, our results suggest that post‐IFRS 10, the value relevance of equity increased and the value relevance of profit decreased for firms reporting fewer subsidiaries. The findings are of particular interest to accounting standard setters who are currently undertaking their post‐implementation review of the impact of IFRS 10 adoption.
Effects of translocation on survival of nuisance bears
Authors: Bauder J. M. , Ruid D. , Roberts N. M. , Kohn B. , Allen M. L.
Published: March 2021

Effective mitigation of human–wildlife conflict should aim to reduce conflicts while also minimizing wildlife mortality. Translocation is often used to mitigate human–wildlife conflict but translocated individuals may have reduced survival, which could negatively affect population growth and social acceptance of translocation as a management tool. Yet, non‐translocated nuisance individuals may also have low survival due to inherent risks associated with nuisance behavior. We used a 38‐year dataset of 1233 marked and translocated nuisance American black bears (Ursus americanus) as a model system with which to evaluate the impacts of translocation on nuisance bear survival. We used multi‐state mark‐recapture models to estimate annual harvest and non‐harvest mortality rates and tested for effects of translocation distance and harvest rate on recapture and both mortality rates. Recapture probability increased with translocation distance but 75% of translocated bears were translocated ≤75 km and recapture probabilities were <0.05 across these distances. Survival was 0.43 for adult males, 0.56 for adult females, and 0.38–0.40 for yearlings. However, increasing translocation distance reduced both harvest and non‐harvest mortality (β = −0.0044, 95% CI = −0.0081 to −0.0006 and β = −0.0020, 95% CI = −0.0051 to 0.0011, respectively) showing that increasing translocation distance does not negatively impact survival. Our survival estimates were generally lower than those reported for non‐nuisance American black bear populations (0.67–0.83), which likely reflects risks associated with nuisance behavior, such as proximity to human dwellings, agriculture, or roads which in turn may increase harvest and/or road mortality. Our results show that translocation is a useful approach for mitigating human–bear conflict that does not always negatively affect survival. Lower survival of nuisance bears suggests that biologists should focus efforts on reducing the incidences of human–wildlife conflicts (e.g., removing anthropogenic food sources).
Changes in the metabolic profile of human male postmortem frontal cortex and cerebrospinal fluid samples associated with heavy alcohol use
Authors: Kärkkäinen Olli , Kokla Marietta , Lehtonen Marko , Auriola Seppo , Martiskainen Mika , Tiihonen Jari , Karhunen Pekka J. , Hanhineva Kati , Kok Eloise
Published: March 2021

Heavy alcohol use is one of the top causes of disease and death in the world. The brain is a key organ affected by heavy alcohol use. Here, our aim was to measure changes caused by heavy alcohol use in the human brain metabolic profile. We analyzed human postmortem frontal cortex and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from males with a history of heavy alcohol use (n = 74) and controls (n = 74) of the Tampere Sudden Death Series cohort. We used a nontargeted liquid chromatography mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics method. We observed differences between the study groups in the metabolite levels of both frontal cortex and CSF samples, for example, in amino acids and derivatives, and acylcarnitines. There were more significant alterations in the metabolites of frontal cortex than in CSF. In the frontal cortex, significant alterations were seen in the levels of neurotransmitters (e.g., decreased levels of GABA and acetylcholine), acylcarnitines (e.g., increased levels of acylcarnitine 4:0), and in some metabolites associated with alcohol metabolizing enzymes (e.g., increased levels of 2‐piperidone). Some of these changes were also significant in the CSF samples (e.g., elevated 2‐piperidone levels). Overall, these results show the metabolites associated with neurotransmitters, energy metabolism and alcohol metabolism, were altered in human postmortem frontal cortex and CSF samples of persons with a history of heavy alcohol use.
Longitudinal tests of stressor–strain relationships among employed students: The role of core self‐evaluations
Authors: Wang Qiang , Burns Gary N. , Zhang Yucheng
Published: March 2021

This study examined the intraindividual relationships between two stressors and three strains as well as how these relationships can depend on interindividual differences in core self‐evaluations. The hypotheses were tested with four‐wave data from a sample of 147 employed students. Results based on multilevel analysis revealed that relationships between the focal stressors and strains were significant at the within‐person level in the expected directions, except the daily hassles‐physical symptoms relationship. Also, as predicted, three core self‐evaluations were associated with lower initial burnout and physical symptoms, whereas all four core self‐evaluations were associated with higher initial psychological health. Finally, the relationship between the work‐school conflict and burnout was moderated by self‐esteem and emotional stability such that increases in work‐school conflict were more strongly associated with increases in burnout when participants had lower levels of self‐esteem and emotional stability. Limitations and implications for future research on the stressor‐to‐strain effects are discussed.
Middle power behavior under multipolarity: Indonesia and Malaysia in the Middle East since the Arab uprisings
Authors: Burton Guy
Published: March 2021

How do middle powers operate in uncertain multipolar international systems? Through the cases of Malaysia and Indonesia, the article examines their approach in the Middle East after the Arab uprisings. Particular reference is given to their actions in three main areas: the Gulf (especially relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran), the Syrian war (and its blowback in terms of domestic radicalization), and the Palestinian‐Israeli conflict. While the two middle powers’ behavior demonstrated all three possible modes—whether to support, push back or stand apart—what distinguished them was their timing: under multipolarity these different forms of behavior occurred concurrently, in contrast to a more sequenced approach under (global) unipolarity and bipolarity. The findings point to Malaysian and Indonesian actions as examples of “hedging” whereby states seek good relations with all and minimize the risk of problematic entanglements.
@IT2020: An innovative algorithm for allergen immunotherapy prescription in seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: Arasi Stefania , Castelli Sveva , Di Fraia Marco , Villalta Danilo , Tripodi Salvatore , Perna Serena , Dramburg Stephanie , Brighetti Maria Antonia , Conte Mariaelisabetta , Martelli Paola , Sfika Ifigenia , Travaglini Alessandro , Verardo Pier Luigi , Villella Valeria , Matricardi Paolo Maria
Published: March 2021

Background

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease‐modifying treatment in patients with seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (SAR). Its efficacy depends on the precise identification of the triggering allergen. However, diagnostics based on retrospective clinical history and sensitization to whole extracts (SWE) often leads to equivocal results.

Objectives

To assess the usability and impact of a recently established algorithm for a clinical decision support system (@IT2020‐CDSS) for SAR and its diagnostic steps [anamnesis, SWE (skin prick test or serum IgE), component resolved diagnosis, CRD, and real‐time digital symptom recording, eDiary] on doctor's AIT prescription decisions.

Methods

After educational training on the @IT2020‐CDSS algorithm, 46 doctors (18 allergy specialists, AS, and 28 general practitioners, GP) expressed their hypothetical AIT prescription for 10 clinical index cases. Decisions were recorded repeatedly based on different steps of the algorithm. The usability and perceived impact of the algorithm were evaluated.

Results

The combined use of CRD and an eDiary increased the hypothetical AIT prescriptions, both among AS and GP (p < .01). AIT prescription for pollen and Alternaria allergy based on anamnesis and SWE was heterogeneous but converged towards a consensus by integrating CRD and eDiary information. Doctors considered the algorithm useful and recognized its potential in enhancing traditional diagnostics.

Conclusions and clinical implications

The implementation of CRD and eDiary in the @IT2020‐CDSS algorithm improved consensus on AIT prescription for SAR among AS and GP. The potential usefulness of a CDSS for aetiological diagnosis of SAR and AIT prescription in real‐world clinical practice deserves further investigation.
Genetic and clinical aspects of paediatric pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas
Authors: Petenuci Janaina , Guimaraes Augusto G. , Fagundes Gustavo F.C. , Benedetti Anna Flavia F. , Afonso Ana Caroline F. , Pereira Maria Adelaide A. , Zerbini Maria Claudia N. , Siqueira Sheila , Yamauchi Fernando , Soares Silvia C. , Srougi Victor , Tanno Fabio Y. , Chambo Jose L. , Lopes Roberto I. , Denes Francisco T. , Hoff Ana O. , Latronico Ana Claudia , Mendonca Berenice B. , Fragoso Maria Candida B. V. , Almeida Madson Q.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Few and conflicting reports have characterized the genetics of paediatric pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs). This study aimed to investigate the clinical and genetic features of Brazilian children with PPGL.

Patients and Methods

This study included 25 children (52% girls) with PPGL. The median age at diagnosis was 15 years (4‐19). The median time of follow‐up was 145 months. The genetic investigation was performed by Sanger DNA sequencing, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification and/or target next‐generation sequencing panel.

Results

Of the 25 children with PPGL, 11 (44%), 4 (16%), 2 (8%), 1 (4%) and 7 (28%) had germline VHL pathogenic variants, SDHB, SDHD, RET and negative genetic investigation, respectively. Children with germline VHL missense pathogenic variants were younger than those with SDHB or SDHD genetic defects [median (range), 12 (4‐16) vs. 15.5 (14‐19) years; P = .027]. Moreover, 10 of 11 cases with VHL pathogenic variants had bilateral pheochromocytoma (six asynchronous and four synchronous). All children with germline SDHB pathogenic variants presented with abdominal paraganglioma (one of them malignant). The two cases with SDHD pathogenic variants presented with head and neck paraganglioma. Among the cases without a genetic diagnosis, 6 and 2 had pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, respectively. Furthermore, metastatic PPGL was diagnosed in four (16%) of 25 PPGL.

Conclusions

Most of the paediatric PPGL were hereditary and multifocal. The majority of the affected genes belong to pseudohypoxic cluster 1, with VHL being the most frequently mutated. Therefore, our findings impact surgical management and surveillance of children with PPGL.
The prognostic variables affecting the frontal sinusotomy patency outcome and how to manage: A prospective study
Authors: Khafagy Yasser , Ghonim Mohamed , Elgendy Ahmed , Elzayat Saad
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The study aimed to assess the factors affecting the frontal sinus patency after endoscopic frontal sinusotomy.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary centre hospital.

Main outcome measures

Fifty patients with refractory chronic frontal sinusitis (83 operated frontal sinuses) had frontal sinusotomy and followed up for six months. Multiple operative factors were included the type of the procedure, intraoperative sinus findings, degree of mucosal preservation and middle turbinate stability. Other factors were also assessed, including smoking, the presence of allergic rhinitis, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux and other associated medical comorbidities.

Results

The sinus patency success rate was 75.9%. There was a significant difference regarding the intraoperative anteroposterior sinus ostium diameter (5.36 ± 1.45 mm vs 8.88 ± 2.38 mm, P‐value: .001* in the failed group and the success group, respectively). There was a significant association between the patency outcome and the presence of associated medical comorbidities (P‐value: .001*), the presence of allergic rhinitis (P‐value: .001*), the degree of sinus mucosal preservation (P‐value: .012*) and the degree of middle turbinate stability (P‐value: .001*). The multivariate analysis showed that the intraoperative anteroposterior diameter of the sinus ostium, middle turbinate stability and presence of allergic rhinitis were significant predictors (P‐value: .012*, .042* and .013*, respectively).

Conclusion

Sinuses with anteroposterior ostium diameters less than 5.36 mm are more susceptible to restenosis. The flail middle turbinate increases the risk of postoperative middle meatus synechia and frontal sinus patency failure. The presence of allergic rhinitis has a negative impact on the patency outcome.
The European baseline series: Criteria for allergen inclusion with reference to formaldehyde releasers
Authors: Wilkinson S Mark , Badulici Sonia , Giménez‐Arnau Ana , Dickel Heinrich , Gonçalo Margarida , Hervella Marcos , Isaksson Marléne , Johansen Jeanne D , Mahler Vera , Thyssen Jacob P , Uter Wolfgang ,   European Baseline Series Taskforce of the European Society of Contact Dermatitis
Published: March 2021

Existing criteria for inclusion in the European baseline series are summarized. Additional criteria are developed to aid decision making where the current criteria do not yield an unequivocal result. These include a consideration of whether an allergen (hapten) is better placed in a special series and the frequency with which an allergen cross‐reacts with existing markers in the baseline series.
Should methyldibromo glutaronitrile continue to be used in the European baseline Series? A REIDAC national cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mercader‐García Pedro , Pastor‐Nieto María Antonia , Gonzalez‐Perez Ricardo , Cordoba‐Guijarro Susana , Gimenez‐Arnau Ana María , Ruiz‐Gonzalez Inmaculada , Mora‐Fernández Verónica , Miquel Javier , Silvestre‐Salvador Juan Francisco , Ortiz‐Frutos Francisco Javier , Sanz‐Sanchez Tatiana , Rodriguez‐Serna Mercedes , Perez‐Feal Patricia , Sánchez‐Pérez Javier , Heras‐Mendaza Felipe , Serra‐Baldrich Ester , Zaragoza‐Ninet Violeta , Hervella‐Garces Marcos , Gatica‐Ortega María Elena , García‐Doval Ignacio , Descalzo Miguel Ángel , Borrego Leopoldo ,   the REIDAC group
Published: March 2021

Background

Methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN) was one of the most frequent and relevant allergens found in patch testing at the beginning of this century. In 2008, this preservative was banned from cosmetics in Europe and ever since the prevalence of contact allergy to MDBGN has progressively decreased. Despite that gradual decline, MDBGN is still patch‐tested in most baseline series. This study assessed the frequency of MDBGN sensitization, epidemiological characteristics of allergic patients, and the relevance of positive patch tests in a nationwide Spanish registry (REIDAC).

Patients and methods

We evaluated consecutively patch‐tested patients in all participating centres. Using these data, we calculated the proportion of patients with positive patch tests to MDBGN from June 2018 to June 2020 and evaluated the relevance of the positive patch tests.

Results

One hundred and fourteen out of 5072 (2.24 %) tested patients were sensitized to MDBGN. Clinical current relevance was confirmed in only one case.

Conclusion

Although the frequency of contact allergy to MDBGN remains high, no clinical significance was found in most of these patients (5072 tests needed to obtain one relevant positive result). The clinical usefulness of this allergen seems weak and its continued inclusion in the European baseline series is questionable.
The landscape of disaster film, 2000–20
Authors: Montano Samantha , Carr John
Published: March 2021

The general public's understanding of disasters is influenced by the portrayal of such events in popular culture. Disaster films have remained a core attraction in this regard. A systematic assessment of the most recent disaster film cycle (that is, from January 2000–December 2019) is warranted, therefore, to gain insights into the current landscape of the genre and to comprehend better the imagery that people encounter onscreen. This study evaluated 173 disaster films and found that most depict natural hazards and global catastrophes despite films about monsters and smaller‐scale disasters being the most popular. It provides a foundation for future research on the relevance of disaster films to disaster scholarship and emergency management practice. And it offers a starting point to analyse the role of disaster films in shaping the meaning and experience of disasters, generally, and the layperson's understanding of disasters and emergency management, including expectations of responder agencies and organisations.
Early life stress induces a transient increase in hippocampal corticotropin‐releasing hormone in rat neonates that precedes the effects on hypothalamic neuropeptides
Authors: Roque Angélica , Valles Méndez Kinberli Marcela , Ruiz Roberto , Pineda Edel , Lajud Naima
Published: March 2021

Early life stress (ELS) programs hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis activity and affects synaptic plasticity and cognitive performance in adults; however, the effects of ELS during the temporal window of vulnerability are poorly understood. This study aimed to thoroughly characterize the effects of ELS in the form of periodic maternal separation (MS180) during the time of exposure to stress. Hippocampal corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) gene expression and baseline HPA axis activity were analyzed at postnatal (P) days 6, 12, 15, and 21, and in adulthood (P75); these factors were correlated with plasticity markers and adult behavior. Our results indicate that MS180 induces an increase in hippocampal CRH expression at P9, P12, and P15, whereas an increase in hypothalamic CRH expression was observed from P12 to P21. Increased arginine‐vasopressin expression and corticosterone levels were observed only at P21. Moreover, MS180 caused transient alterations in hypothalamic synaptophysin expression during early life. As adults, MS180 rats showed a passive coping strategy in the forced swimming test, cognitive impairments in the object location test, increased hypothalamic CRH expression, and decreased oxytocin (OXT) expression. Spearman's analysis indicated that cognitive impairments correlated with CRH and OXT expression. In conclusion, our data indicate that MS180 induces a transient increase in hippocampal CRH expression in neonates that precedes the effects on hypothalamic neuropeptides, confirming the role of increased CRH during the temporal window of vulnerability as a mediator of some of the detrimental effects of ELS on brain development and adult behavior.
Mutualism disruption by an invasive ant reduces carbon fixation for a foundational East African ant‐plant
Authors: Milligan Patrick D. , Martin Timothy A. , John Grace P. , Riginos Corinna , Goheen Jacob R. , Carpenter Scott M. , Palmer Todd M.
Published: March 2021

Invasive ants shape assemblages and interactions of native species, but their effect on fundamental ecological processes is poorly understood. In East Africa, Pheidole megacephala ants have invaded monodominant stands of the ant‐tree Acacia drepanolobium, extirpating native ant defenders and rendering trees vulnerable to canopy damage by vertebrate herbivores. We used experiments and observations to quantify direct and interactive effects of invasive ants and large herbivores on A. drepanolobium photosynthesis over a 2‐year period. Trees that had been invaded for ≥ 5 years exhibited 69% lower whole‐tree photosynthesis during key growing seasons, resulting from interaction between invasive ants and vertebrate herbivores that caused leaf‐ and canopy‐level photosynthesis declines. We also surveyed trees shortly before and after invasion, finding that recent invasion induced only minor changes in leaf physiology. Our results from individual trees likely scale up, highlighting the potential of invasive species to alter ecosystem‐level carbon fixation and other biogeochemical cycles.
Range edges of North American marine species are tracking temperature over decades
Authors: Fredston Alexa , Pinsky Malin , Selden Rebecca L. , Szuwalski Cody , Thorson James T. , Gaines Steven D. , Halpern Benjamin S.
Published: March 2021

Understanding the dynamics of species range edges in the modern era is key to addressing fundamental biogeographic questions about abiotic and biotic drivers of species distributions. Range edges are where colonization and extirpation processes unfold, and so these dynamics are also important to understand for effective natural resource management and conservation. However, few studies to date have analyzed time series of range edge positions in the context of climate change, in part because range edges are difficult to detect. We first quantified positions for 165 range edges of marine fishes and invertebrates from three U.S. continental shelf regions using up to five decades of survey data and a spatiotemporal model to account for sampling and measurement variability. We then analyzed whether those range edges maintained their edge thermal niche—the temperatures found at the range edge position—over time. A large majority of range edges (88%) maintained either summer or winter temperature extremes at the range edge over the study period, and most maintained both (76%), although not all of those range edges shifted in space. However, we also found numerous range edges—particularly poleward edges and edges in the region that experienced the most warming—that did not shift at all, shifted further than predicted by temperature alone, or shifted opposite the direction expected, underscoring the multiplicity of factors that drive changes in range edge positions. This study suggests that range edges of temperate marine species have largely maintained the same edge thermal niche during periods of rapid change and provides a blueprint for testing whether and to what degree species range edges track temperature in general.
The global macroecology of brood size in amphibians reveals a predisposition of low‐fecundity species to extinction
Authors: Pincheira‐Donoso Daniel , Harvey Lilly P. , Cotter Sheena C. , Stark Gavin , Meiri Shai , Hodgson Dave J.
Published: March 2021

Aim

The diversity of brood size across animal species exceeds the diversity of most other life‐history traits. In some environments, reproductive success increases with brood size, whereas in others it increases with smaller broods. The dominant hypothesis explaining such diversity predicts that selection on brood size varies along climatic gradients, creating latitudinal fecundity patterns. Another hypothesis predicts that diversity in fecundity arises among species adapted to different microhabitats within assemblages. A more recent hypothesis concerned with the consequences of these evolutionary processes in the era of anthropogenic environmental change predicts that low‐fecundity species might fail to recover from demographic collapses caused by rapid environmental alterations, making them more susceptible to extinctions. These hypotheses have been addressed predominantly in endotherms and only rarely in other taxa. Here, we address all three hypotheses in amphibians globally.

Location

Global.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Class Amphibia.

Methods

Using a dataset spanning 2,045 species from all three amphibian orders, we adopt multiple phylogenetic approaches to investigate the association between brood size and climatic, ecological and phenotypic predictors, and according to species conservation status.

Results

Brood size increases with latitude. This tendency is much stronger in frogs, where temperature seasonality is the dominant driver, whereas salamander fecundity increases towards regions with more constant rainfall. These relationships vary across continents but confirm seasonality as the key driver of fecundity. Ecologically, nesting sites predict brood size in frogs, but not in salamanders. Finally, we show that extinction risk increases consistently with decreasing fecundity across amphibians, whereas body size is a “by‐product” correlate of extinction, given its relationship with fecundity.

Main conclusions

Climatic seasonality and microhabitats are primary drivers of fecundity evolution. Our finding that low fecundity increases extinction risk reinforces the need to refocus extinction hypotheses based on a suggested role for body size.
Correction of haemostasis can be reduced to four days for CVAD implantation in severe haemophilia A patients: Data from the PedNet study group
Authors: Minna Koskenvuo , Anne Mäkipernaa , Beatrice Nolan , Rainer Kobelt , Susanna Ranta
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Central venous access devices (CVAD) are used to facilitate intravenous treatment with coagulation factor concentrates (CFCs) in haemophilia A (HA). Guidelines for perioperative CFC replacement therapy are based on single centre experiences, and the length of replacement therapy varies.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether haemostasis coverage under four days is as effective and safe as a longer period of haemostatic coverage.

Methods

We identified patients with severe HA without inhibitors or major bleeds within one month of the surgery who received their first CVAD. We compared the CFC consumption and bleeds between children with ≤4 and those who received 5–7 perioperative treatment days including the day of surgery. Bleeds were recorded up to 4 days after the end of perioperative haemostatic coverage.

Results

In total, 144 children met the eligibility criteria and were included in the study cohort: 34 had received haemostatic coverage for ≤4 days, while 110 had received 5–7 days of haemostatic coverage. One bleed related to the surgery occurred in both groups.

Conclusion

Overall, the bleeding complications were rare. Haemostatic coverage with CFCs under ≤4 days with elective CVAD insertions was as effective as coverage for ≥5 days.