bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of agreement between EXTEM and NATEM thromboelastometry measurement assays in critically ill neonates
Authors: Tsantes Andreas G. , Konstantinidi Aikaterini , Parastatidou Stavroula , Ioakeimidis Georgios , Tsante Konstantina A. , Mantzios Petros G. , Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Gialeraki Argyri , Houhoula Dimitra , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Piovani Daniele , Bonovas Stefanos , Tsantes Argirios E. , Sokou Rozeta
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To investigate the agreement between the EXTEM and NATEM measurements.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, EXTEM and NATEM analyses were performed on blood samples from 162 ill neonates, providing 324 paired measurements. The agreement between EXTEM and NATEM measurements was evaluated by the nonparametric spearman's rank correlation to assess the correlation between the paired measurements, by the Bland–Altman analysis for the graphical presentation of the agreement, and by the Deming regression model to assess the significance of the agreement. The agreement between the two methods for the detection of bleeding events was determined by kappa statistic.

Results

Strong correlations were found between EXTEM and NATEM measurements for A10, MCF. The Bland–Altman plots showed good agreement for A10, MCF, LI60, and alpha angle parameters, while CT showed a nearly linear slope indicating that bias increased with the mean. The highest agreement for bleeding events was found for the A10 parameter (κ = 0.70, p < .001), while the lowest for the CT parameter (κ = 0.36, p = .94).

Conclusions

NATEM parameters that reflect clot firmness and fibrinolytic activity are strongly correlated with the corresponding EXTEM measurements with a good agreement between them, indicating that these two methods could be used interchangeably.
Random mating for body size despite fitness benefits of size‐assortative mating in a treefrog
Authors: Höbel Gerlinde , Feagles Olivia , Moore Abigail , Reichert Michael , Stratman Kane
Published: June 2022

Size‐assortative mating in frogs and toads should increase fitness, because pairs consisting of partners well matched for size should also have a higher proportion of fertilized eggs. We examined whether the size ratios of mated males and females had an effect on fertilization success in Eastern Gray Treefrogs and tested whether the naturally observed size ratios could be attributed to female preferences or stochastic effects (male availability). We show that in this species, mating with a roughly size‐matched partner (m/f size ratios between 0.9 and 1.1) provides direct benefits by increasing fertilization success. Although the frequency of male advertisement calls would provide females with a cue by which to estimate the body size of a potential partner, the female call frequency preferences are not size‐dependent. Call frequency preferences are therefore unlikely to result in the choice of a well‐matched partner. The size distributions of males and females available at the breeding site appear to result in the distribution of male/female size ratios and the weak pattern of size‐assortative mating we observed in nature, despite apparently random mating with respect to body size.
Infection influences vibratory signal components in a wolf spider
Authors: Gilbert Rachel , Uetz George W.
Published: June 2022

While most research on sexual signals as indicators of health status and infection has been focused on communication by visual (color), airborne acoustic (song structure, amplitude, frequency, and pattern), or chemical means, new evidence suggests that substrate‐borne vibratory signals can also be a reliable indicator of male quality and possibly infection history. In this study, we investigated the ability of the vibratory cues in multimodal sexual signals of Schizocosa ocreata wolf spiders to convey male health information to a female, and whether females adjust their mate choice decisions based on these cues. Individual components of the complete vibratory signal, including stridulatory pulse rate, mean amplitude, and peak amplitude, were all significant predictors of mating success in live trials. Males infected as a juvenile (during the penultimate molt) had significantly lower stridulatory rate and peak amplitude than control males. There were no significant differences in any of the vibratory signal components between control males and males infected as adults (1 h prior to mating trials). This suggests that the vibratory cues in this species may be altered when infection occurs during development, allowing females to avoid males that have been immunocompromised in the past. However, these cues are not reliable indicators of whether a male is actively infected, which means that the evaluation of these cues will not help a female avoid contact with infected individuals. Taken together, these results suggest that vibratory signals may convey honest information about male quality and past health, allowing females to choose mates that have not been compromised during development.
Cooperative robust adaptive control of multiple trains based on RBFNN position output constraints
Authors: Yang Junxia , Zhang Youpeng , Jin Yuxiang
Published: June 2022

The stability of each train, high control accuracy, and minimum safe separation distance are important indexes to measure the performance of the cooperative control system of multiple trains. In this article, aiming at the problem of low accuracy of multiple trains cooperative control with nonlinear running resistance and external disturbance, the distributed cooperative robust adaptive control scheme for multiple trains with RBFNN position output constraints based on train running curve tracking is proposed. Multiple different control techniques are offered for different trains, and that they are based on local knowledge of position, speed, and acceleration. The leading train's speed and position precisely match the planned operation curve, while the following train keeps the tracking interval at the minimum safe distance between two trains. In order to reduce the influence of the uncertainty of basic resistance parameters and external interference on the cooperative control of multiple trains, the parameter uncertainties are compensated by adding a robust adaptive law to the multiple trains control based on position output constraints. The lumped exogenous disturbances (additional resistance, external interference, measurement noise, etc.) are estimated using an RBFNN approximator for the unknown term of the cooperative system. The stability of the cooperative operation of multiple trains is confirmed using the Lyapunov stability theorem. The performance of the proposed scheme was evaluated by the cooperative control system of multiple trains in predecessor following (PF) and bidirectional control (BC) modes.
Analytical Artefacts Preclude Reliable Isotope Ratio Measurement of Internal Water in Coral Skeletons
Authors: de Graaf Stefan , Vonhof Hubert B. , Reijmer John J. G. , Feenstra Eline , Mienis Furu , Prud'Homme Charlotte , Zinke Jens , van der Lubbe Jeroen H. J. L. , Swart Peter K. , Haug Gerald
Published: June 2022

Internal water in cold‐water and tropical coral skeletons was extracted and measured for its oxygen and hydrogen isotope ratios. Water was extracted by crushing pieces of coral hard tissue in a percussion device connected to either a cavity ring‐down spectroscopy (CRDS) system or an isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) system. Despite most samples yielding sufficient water, each analytical system produces distinct isotope patterns. Experiments show that several characteristics specific to biominerals give rise to discrepancies and analytical artefacts that preclude the acquisition of reproducible isotope data. The main complication is that internal water in biogenic carbonates is distributed in an open interconnected micro‐network that readily exchanges with external water and potentially facilitates interaction with hydration water in the finely dispersed organic matrix in the coral skeleton. Furthermore, only an isotopically fractionated part of the internal water is released from the coral skeletons upon crushing. Altogether, isotope ratio measurement of internal water in corals with bulk crushing techniques does not give primary fluid isotope ratios useful for (palaeo‐)environmental or microbiological studies. As the resulting isotope patterns can show systematic behaviour per technique, isotope data may be erroneously interpreted to reflect the original calcifying fluid when using only a single technique to isotopically characterise internal fluids in coral skeletons.
Auditors' workload and audit quality under audit hour budget pressure: Evidence from the Korean audit market
Authors: Hwang Seokyoun , Hong Philip Keejae
Published: June 2022

By utilizing unique audit hour (actual and budgeted) data from Korea, this study examines the impact of auditors' workload on audit quality under audit hour budget pressure. We find the intensity of auditor workload has a negative impact on audit quality when total audit hours exceed budgeted hours (i.e., unfavourable budget variance). When we breakdown the audit workload by auditor level, we find partner workload has a negative impact on audit quality regardless of the budget variance, while senior auditor workload negatively affects audit quality only when the budget variance is unfavourable. We cautiously interpret our empirical findings to suggest that stress and burnout caused by increased audit hours under budget pressure can compel auditors to engage in behaviours that undermine audit quality.
Molecular characterization of insulin receptor (IR) in oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), and elucidation of its regulatory roles in glucolipid homeostasis and metamorphosis through interaction with miR‐982490
Authors: Fang Haibo , Wang Xiu , Liu Xiaoxia , Michaud J. P. , Wu Yanan , Zhang Huaijiang , Li Yisong , Li Zhen
Published: June 2022

As an intermediate molecule in the Insulin/Insulin‐like growth factor signalling pathway (IIS), the insulin receptor (IR) plays vital roles linking nutritional signals to the downstream regulation of metabolic homeostasis, development, metamorphosis, reproduction and stress responses. In the present study, we describe the molecular characteristics of IR in the cosmopolitan fruit boring pest, Grapholita molesta, and its predicted posttranscription regulator miR‐982490, and elucidate its regulatory roles in glucolipid homeostasis and metamorphosis. Phylogenetic and domain analyses indicate that lepidopteran IRs normally cluster within families, and that four main domains are conserved in GmIR and those of other Lepidoptera. Bio‐informatic prediction, synchronic expression profile evaluation and dual luciferase reporter assays indicated negative regulation of GmIR by miR‐982490. Injection of miR‐982490 agomir into fifth instar larvae yielded effects similar to dsGmIR injection, resulting in enhanced levels of trehalose and triglyceride in haemolymph, and reduced pupation success and pupal weight, both of which could be rescued by co‐injection of dsGmIR and miR‐982490 antagomir. We infer that GmIR regulates glucolipid homeostasis and affects G. molesta metamorphosis via interactions with its posttranscriptional regulator miR‐982490. This study expands our understanding of the regulatory network of IIS in insect nutritional homeostasis and development.
miR‐218 affects the ECM composition and cell biomechanical properties of glioblastoma cells
Authors: Grabowska Małgorzata , Kuczyński Konrad , Piwecka Monika , Rabiasz Alicja , Zemła Joanna , Głodowicz Paweł , Wawrzyniak Dariusz , Lekka Małgorzata , Rolle Katarzyna
Published: June 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumour. GBM cells have the ability to infiltrate into the surrounding brain tissue, which results in a significant decrease in the patient’s survival rate. Infiltration is a consequence of the low adhesion and high migration of the tumour cells, two features being associated with the highly remodelled extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we report that ECM composition is partially regulated at the post‐transcriptional level by miRNA. Particularly, we show that miR‐218, a well‐known miRNA suppressor, is involved in the direct regulation of ECM components, tenascin‐C (TN‐C) and syndecan‐2 (SDC‐2). We demonstrated that the overexpression of miR‐218 reduces the mRNA and protein expression levels of TN‐C and SDC‐2, and subsequently influences biomechanical properties of GBM cells. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and real‐time migration analysis revealed that miR‐218 overexpression impairs the migration potential and enhances the adhesive properties of cells. AFM analysis followed by F‐actin staining demonstrated that the expression level of miR‐218 has an impact on cell stiffness and cytoskeletal reorganization. Global gene expression analysis showed deregulation of a number of genes involved in tumour cell motility and adhesion or ECM remodelling upon miR‐218 treatment, suggesting further indirect interactions between the cells and ECM. The results demonstrated a direct impact of miR‐218 reduction in GBM tumours on the qualitative ECM content, leading to changes in the rigidity of the ECM and GBM cells being conducive to increased invasiveness of GBM.
Combined anticancer therapy with imidazoacridinone analogue C‐1305 and paclitaxel in human lung and colon cancer xenografts—Modulation of tumour angiogenesis
Authors: Świtalska Marta , Filip‐Psurska Beata , Milczarek Magdalena , Psurski Mateusz , Moszyńska Adrianna , Dąbrowska Aleksandra M. , Gawrońska Małgorzata , Krzymiński Karol , Bagiński Maciej , Bartoszewski Rafał , Wietrzyk Joanna
Published: June 2022

The acridanone derivative 5‐dimethylaminopropylamino‐8‐hydroxytriazoloacridinone (C‐1305) has been described as a potent inhibitor of cancer cell growth. Its mechanism of action in in vitro conditions was attributed, among others, to its ability to bind and stabilize the microtubule network and subsequently exhibit its tumour‐suppressive effects in synergy with paclitaxel (PTX). Therefore, the objective of the present study was to analyse the effects of the combined treatment of C‐1305 and PTX in vivo. In addition, considering the results of previous genomic analyses, particular attention was given to the effects of this treatment on tumour angiogenesis. Treatment with C‐1305 revealed antitumor effect in A549 lung cancer cells, and combined treatment with PTX showed tendency to anticancer activity in HCT116 colon cancer xenografts. It also improved tumour blood perfusion in both tumour models. The plasma level of CCL2 was increased and that of PDGF was decreased after combined treatment with C‐1305 and PTX. The experimental results showed that the levels of FGF1, TGF‐β and Ang‐4 decreased, whereas the levels of ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation increased in HCT116 tumour tissue following combined treatment with both drugs. The results of in vitro capillary‐like structure formation assay demonstrated the inhibiting effect of C‐1305 on this process. Although previous in vitro and in vivo studies suggested a positive effect of C‐1305 on cancer cells, combined treatment of HCT116 human colon and A549 lung cancer cells with both PTX and C‐1305 in vivo showed that the antitumor activity was restricted and associated with the modulation of tumour angiogenesis.
Optimizing Implementation of Artificial‐Intelligence‐Based Automated Scoring: An Evidence Centered Design Approach for Designing Assessments for AI‐based Scoring
Authors: Ercikan Kadriye , McCaffrey Daniel F.
Published: June 2022

Artificial‐intelligence‐based automated scoring is often an afterthought and is considered after assessments have been developed, resulting in nonoptimal possibility of implementing automated scoring solutions. In this article, we provide a review of Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based methodologies for scoring in educational assessments. We then propose an evidence‐centered design framework for developing assessments to align conceptualization, scoring, and ultimate assessment interpretation and use with the advantages and limitations of AI‐based scoring in mind. We provide recommendations for defining construct, task, and evidence models to guide task and assessment design that optimize the development and implementation of AI‐based automated scoring of constructed response items and support the validity of inferences from and uses of scores.
Does diet influence aging? Evidence from animal studies
Authors: Le Couteur David G. , Raubenheimer David , Solon‐Biet Samantha , de Cabo Rafael , Simpson Stephen J.
Published: June 2022

Nutrition profoundly influences the risk for many age‐related diseases. Whether nutrition influences human aging biology directly is less clear. Studies in different animal species indicate that reducing food intake (“caloric restriction” [CR]) can increase lifespan and delay the onset of diseases and the biological hallmarks of aging. Obesity has been described as “accelerated aging” and therefore the lifespan and health benefits generated by CR in both aging and obesity may occur via similar mechanisms. Beyond calorie intake, studies based on nutritional geometry have shown that protein intake and the interaction between dietary protein and carbohydrates influence age‐related health and lifespan. Studies where animals are calorically restricted by providing free access to diluted diets have had less impact on lifespan than those studies where animals are given a reduced aliquot of food each day and are fasting between meals. This has drawn attention to the role of fasting in health and aging, and exploration of the health effects of various fasting regimes. Although definitive human clinical trials of nutrition and aging would need to be unfeasibly long and unrealistically controlled, there is good evidence from animal experiments that some nutritional interventions based on CR, manipulating dietary macronutrients, and fasting can influence aging biology and lifespan.
“It's Not the Stereotypical 80s Movie Bullying”: A Qualitative Study on the High School Environment, Body Image, and Weight Stigma
Authors: Plummer Rachel S. , Alter Zanny , Lee Rebekka M. , Gordon Allegra R. , Cory Hannah , Brion‐Meisels Gretchen , Reiner Jennifer , Topping Kimm , Kenney Erica L.
Published: June 2022

Background

Schools are crucial for preventing negative health outcomes in youth and are an ideal setting to address weight stigma and poor body image. The current study sought to examine and describe the nature of weight stigma and body image in adolescents, ascertain aspects of the school environment that affect body image, and identify recommendations for schools.

Methods

We conducted 24 semi‐structured interviews with students at 2 high schools in 2020. Qualitative data were analyzed using inductive coding and an immersion/crystallization approach.

Results

Students did not report weight discrimination or harmful body image messaging from teachers or administrators. Physical education (PE) class and dress codes were 2 instances where covert weight stigma appeared. The most common forms of peer weight stigma reported were weight‐based teasing and self‐directed appearance critiques. Students recommended that schools eliminate dress codes, diversify PE activities, address body image issues in school, and be cognizant of teasing within friend groups.

Conclusions

Weight stigma presents itself in unique ways in high school settings. Schools can play a role in reducing experiences of weight stigma and negative body image. Weight‐related teasing within friend groups was common and may not be captured in traditional assessments of bullying. More nuanced survey instruments may be needed.
Evaluating the impact of ultraviolet C exposure conditions on coliphage MS2 inactivation on surfaces
Authors: Ratliff K. , Oudejans L. , Calfee W. , Abdel-Hady A. , Monge M. , Aslett D.
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised interest in using devices that generate ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation as an alternative approach for reducing or eliminating microorganisms on surfaces. Studies investigating the efficacy of UVC radiation against pathogens use a wide range of laboratory methods and experimental conditions that can make cross-comparison of results and extrapolation of findings to real-world settings difficult. Here, we use three different UVC-generating sources – a broad-spectrum pulsed xenon light, a continuous light-emitting diode (LED), and a low-pressure mercury vapour lamp – to evaluate the impact of different experimental conditions on UVC efficacy against the coliphage MS2 on surfaces. We find that a nonlinear dose–response relationship exists for all three light sources, meaning that linear extrapolation of doses resulting in a 1-log10 (90%) reduction does not accurately predict the dose required for higher (e.g. 3-log10 or 99.9%) log10 reductions. In addition, our results show that the inoculum characteristics and underlying substrate play an important role in determining UVC efficacy. Variations in microscopic surface topography may shield MS2 from UVC radiation to different degrees, which impacts UVC device efficacy. These findings are important to consider in comparing results from different UVC studies and in estimating device performance in field conditions.
Identification of ancestral sex chromosomes in the frog Glandirana rugosa bearing XX‐XY and ZZ‐ZW sex‐determining systems
Authors: Miura Ikuo , Shams Foyez , Jeffries Daniel Lee , Katsura Yukako , Mawaribuchi Shuuji , Perrin Nicolas , Ito Michihiko , Ogata Mitsuaki , Ezaz Tariq
Published: June 2022

Sex chromosomes constantly exist in a dynamic state of evolution: rapid turnover and change of heterogametic sex during homomorphic state, and often stepping out to a heteromorphic state followed by chromosomal decaying. However, the forces driving these different trajectories of sex chromosome evolution are still unclear. The Japanese frog Glandirana rugosa is one taxon well suited to the study on these driving forces. The species has two different heteromorphic sex chromosome systems, XX‐XY and ZZ‐ZW, which are separated in different geographic populations. Both XX‐XY and ZZ‐ZW sex chromosomes are represented by chromosome 7 (2n = 26). Phylogenetically, these two systems arose via hybridization between two ancestral lineages of West Japan and East Japan populations, of which sex chromosomes are homomorphic in both sexes and to date have not yet been identified. Identification of the sex chromosomes will give us important insight into the mechanisms of sex chromosome evolution in this species. Here, we used a high‐throughput genomic approach to identify the homomorphic XX‐XY sex chromosomes in both ancestral populations. Sex‐linked DNA markers of West Japan were aligned to chromosome 1, whereas those of East Japan were aligned to chromosome 3. These results reveal that at least two turnovers across three different sex chromosomes 1, 3 and 7 occurred during evolution of this species. This finding raises the possibility that cohabitation of the two different sex chromosomes from ancestral lineages induced turnover to another new one in their hybrids, involving transition of heterogametic sex and evolution from homomorphy to heteromorphy.
Estimating Nonlinear Business Cycle Mechanisms with Linear Vector Autoregressions: A Monte Carlo Study*
Authors: Kohler Karsten , Calvert Jump Robert
Published: June 2022

The paper investigates how well linear vector autoregressions (VARs) identify endogenous cycle mechanisms and cycle frequencies when the underlying process is a nonlinear limit cycle. We conduct Monte Carlo simulations with five nonlinear models in which cycles are driven by the interaction of two state variables. We find that while linear VARs quantitatively underestimate the strength of the interaction mechanism, they successfully identify the qualitative presence of a cycle mechanism in most cases (55%–100%). Our results further suggest that linear VARs are surprisingly successful at estimating cycle frequencies of nonlinear processes.
Dimension Reduction for High‐Dimensional Vector Autoregressive Models*
Authors: Cubadda Gianluca , Hecq Alain
Published: June 2022

This article aims to decompose a large dimensional vector autoregressive (VAR) model into two components, the first one being generated by a small‐scale VAR and the second one being a white noise. Hence, a reduced number of common components generates the entire dynamics of the large system through a VAR structure. This modelling, which we label as the dimension‐reducible VAR, extends the common feature approach to high‐dimensional systems, and it differs from the dynamic factor model in which the idiosyncratic component can also embed a dynamic pattern. We show the conditions under which this decomposition exists. We provide statistical tools to detect its presence in the data and to estimate the parameters of the underlying small‐scale VAR model. Based on our methodology, we propose a novel approach to identify the shock that is responsible for most of the common variability at the business cycle frequencies. We evaluate the practical value of the proposed methods by simulations as well as by an empirical application to a large set of US economic variables.
Prevalence and associated factors of secondary hyperparathyroidism after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Zhiguang , Liang Yuzhi , Zheng Chao , Wang Zhongchang , Wu Zhenpeng , Li Min , Huang Shifang , Yang Jingge
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for relevant studies using search terms gastric bypass, RYGB and hyperparathyroidism. Thirty‐four cohort studies with 4331 patients were incorporated into the final meta‐analysis. Overall estimates of the prevalence of SHPT following RYGB were 39%. Subgroup analyses indicated the pooled prevalences of SHPT were 25%, 42%, 48%, and 54% for ≤1 year, >1 and ≤5 years, >5 and ≤10 years, and >10 years, respectively, after RYGB. Meta‐regression showed that SHPT occurred was positively related to follow‐up durations (p = 0.001). Additionally, SHPT prevalence was higher in studies in which calcium and vitamin D supplementation were considered inadequate than in those which were adequate (p = 0.002). SHPT is highly prevalent in individuals with obesity after RYGB. It seems to progress with time after surgery. Routine calcium and vitamin D supplementation post‐RYGB together with targeted treatment of vitamin D deficiency, reasonable adjustment of the doses of supplementation with regular follow‐up, and improved patient compliance, as well as long‐term screening, are necessary to prevent the development of SHPT.
Harold Pinter'sOld Timesand the play of indistinction
Authors: Kallenbach Ulla
Published: June 2022

This article analyses the fluid frontiers of imagination, memory and the real in Harold Pinter’sOld Times. While the latter notions of memory and the real in Pinter’s works have been extensively explored, the concept of imagination has not. In this article I argue that the concept of imagination as it has been interpreted since the mid‐1900s—which exactly tries to grasp or even dissolve these fluid frontiers—offers a way of rethinking both Pinter’s discussion of dramatic truth, the notion of ‘the real’ as it appears to his characters, and how memory is presented in his plays. An attentiveness to the concept of imagination as an analytical approach, will also allow us new ways for understanding how the text implies a potential engagement with his audience.
Cataract surgery is not associated with post‐operative binocular vision anomalies in age‐related cataract patients
Authors: Tan Qing‐Qing , Lewis James S. , Lan Chang‐Jun , Liao Xuan , Tang Xiao‐Li , Wang Jingyun , Aljohani Saeed , Scheiman Mitchell M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To compare the binocular vision status of patients pre‐ and post‐cataract surgery, and to investigate the risk factors for patients who develop binocular vision anomalies post‐surgery.

Methods

A prospective study of patients (≥50 years) who elected to undergo bilateral cataract surgery was implemented. A comprehensive binocular vision test battery including stereopsis, ocular alignment, fusional vergence, vergence facility, near point of convergence and the Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey (CISS) was administered before the first surgery and at the third visit after surgery on the second eye. A detailed diagnostic classification protocol was applied to identify the presence of binocular vision anomalies pre‐ and post‐surgery.

Results

Seventy‐three participants were included at baseline, 24 (33%) of whom were diagnosed with non‐strabismic binocular vision anomalies (NSBVA), mainly convergence insufficiency (18/73, 25%). Fifty‐one participants completed the post‐operative evaluation, 17 (33%) of whom had NSBVA pre‐surgery and 13 (26%) post‐surgery (p = 0.48). There were a number of conversions from NSBVA to normal binocular vision and vice versa. Logistic regression showed that the adjusted odds ratio of pre‐existing NSBVA diagnosis for predicting the risk of post‐operative NSBVA was 6.37 (p < 0.01). There were no significant changes in most binocular vision measures post‐surgery, except for a significant improvement in the CISS score (p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.83).

Conclusions

Binocular vision anomalies, especially convergence insufficiency, are prevalent in the age‐related cataract population. Cataract surgery does not appear to be a significant risk factor for the development of new binocular vision anomalies. A pre‐existing binocular vision anomaly is the main risk factor for predicting a post‐operative binocular vision anomaly in this population.
Analgesia for retinopathy of prematurity screening: A systematic review
Authors: Thirunavukarasu Arun J. , Hassan Refaat , Savant Shalom V. , Hamilton Duncan L.
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims

Premature neonates require regular ophthalmological examination, generally indirect ophthalmoscopy, to screen for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Conventional analgesia is provided with topical anesthetic eyedrops and oral sugar solution, but neonates still experience significant pain. Here, the literature base was examined to evaluate the usefulness of other pharmacological analgesics.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review was undertaken, adhering to a PROSPERO preregistered protocol in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (identifier CRD42022302459). Electronic databases were searched for primary research articles on pharmacological pain interventions used for ROP screening in neonates. The primary outcome measure was pain scores recorded using validated pain scoring tools, with and without pharmacological interventions in neonates during eye examination. For analysis, studies were separated into two categories: topical anesthesia and alternative pharmacological treatments.

Results

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Topical analgesia, oral paracetamol, and intranasal fentanyl were found to be effective in reducing the pain of eye examination. Oral morphine and inhaled nitrous oxide had no significant effect on premature infant pain profile (PIPP) scores during indirect ophthalmoscopy.

Discussion

In addition to topical anesthesia, premedication with oral paracetamol is recommended during screening examination for ROP. The routine use of fentanyl is not recommended due to the risk of potential side effects. Non‐pharmacological measures, such as sweet oral solutions and comfort techniques should also be employed. Further research is required to determine whether the use of nitrous oxide has a role, and to develop a safe and effective analgesic strategy to fully ameliorate the pain of ROP screening.
CRISPR RNA‐guided integrase enables high‐efficiency targeted genome engineering in Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Aliu Ephraim , Lee Keunsub , Wang Kan
Published: June 2022

Agrobacterium tumefaciens, the causal agent of plant crown gall disease, has been widely used to genetically transform many plant species. The inter‐kingdom gene transfer capability made Agrobacterium an essential tool and model system to study the mechanism of exporting and integrating a segment of bacterial DNA into the plant genome. However, many biological processes such as Agrobacterium‐host recognition and interaction are still elusive. To accelerate the understanding of this important plant pathogen and further improve its capacity in plant genetic engineering, we adopted a CRISPR RNA‐guided integrase system for Agrobacterium genome engineering. In this work, we demonstrate that INsertion of Transposable Elements by Guide RNA–Assisted TargEting (INTEGRATE) can efficiently generate DNA insertions to enable targeted gene knockouts. In addition, in conjunction with Cre‐loxP recombination system, we achieved precise deletions of large DNA fragments. This work provides new genetic engineering strategies for Agrobacterium species and their gene functional analyses.
Bending the arc of nonprofit leadership toward justice: Impacts of racial representation and organizational publicness on diversifying executive leadership
Authors: LeRoux Kelly , Medina Alejandra
Published: June 2022

Nonprofits are critical partners in the delivery of government‐funded human services in the US, but there is evidence of a persistent racial leadership gap in the sector, whereby Black and Latino Executive Directors are dramatically under‐represented. Why does this gap persist despite increased attention to this issue in recent years? And what organizational and community‐level factors do shape the likelihood that nonprofits will hire a Black or Latino Executive Director (ED)? We answer these questions through a mixed‐methods sequential design, drawing on survey data from 606 nonprofit organizations across the US, along with interview data from 12 nonprofit executives representing expert informants in the Chicago metro area. Consistent with theories of representation and publicness, we find demographic representation at the board level positively linked to the hiring of a Black or Latino ED, but government funding has inconsistent effects. We further elaborate on these findings through our qualitative data.
Credit Line Exposure at Default Modelling Using Bayesian Mixed Effect Quantile Regression
Authors: Betz Jennifer , Nagl Maximilian , Rösch Daniel
Published: June 2022

For banks, credit lines play an important role exposing both liquidity and credit risk. In the advanced internal ratings-based approach, banks are obliged to use their own estimates of exposure at default using credit conversion factors. For volatile segments, additional downturn estimates are required. Using the world's largest database of defaulted credit lines from the US and Europe and macroeconomic variables, we apply a Bayesian mixed effect quantile regression and find strongly varying covariate effects over the whole conditional distribution of credit conversion factors and especially between United States and Europe. If macroeconomic variables do not provide adequate downturn estimates, the model is enhanced by random effects. Results from European credit lines suggest that high conversion factors are driven by random effects rather than observable covariates. We further show that the impact of the economic surrounding highly depends on the level of utilization one year prior default, suggesting that credit lines with high drawdown potential are most affected by economic downturns and hence bear the highest risk in crisis periods.
Assessing changes in facial skin quality using noninvasive in vivo clinical skin imaging techniques after use of a topical retinoid product in subjects with moderate‐to‐severe photodamage
Authors: Goberdhan Lisa T. , Pellacani Giovanni , Ardigo Marco , Schneider Katie , Makino Elizabeth T. , Mehta Rahul C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Studies utilizing reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and dynamic optical coherence tomography (D‐OCT) to assess cosmetic skin changes are limited.

Methods

A 12‐week, open‐label study was conducted using RCM and D‐OCT to evaluate the effects of a topical cosmetic retinol (RET05) on subjects with facial photodamage. Study endpoints included investigator grading, standardized (VISIA‐CR) and 3D photography (Antera 3D), independent RCM (VivaScope1500) and D‐OCT (VivoSight) image analysis, validated FACE‐Q scales, and subject questionnaires.

Results

Twenty‐three subjects, 45‐ to 68‐year old, with Fitzpatrick skin types II–IV completed the study. After 12 weeks of repeated application, RET05 demonstrated significant corresponding cosmetic improvements for overall photodamage, skin tone unevenness, tactile roughness, fine lines/wrinkles (forehead, periocular, and perioral), and coarse lines/wrinkles (forehead, periocular, and cheeks), and Allergan Skin Roughness Scale. FACE‐Q assessments also demonstrated significant improvements from baseline at week 12. RCM analysis showed decreases in all epidermis, less compact stratum corneum (SC), more non‐compact SC, decreases in coarse/huddled dermal fibers, and increases in fibrillar dermal fibers, as compared to baseline. D‐OCT analysis showed significant decreases in epidermal thickness (ET), reduction of moderate/many collagen fragments and collagen bundles, and significant increases in the stroma attenuation coefficient and collagen density. Moreover, the dermal–epidermal junction was more pronounced, and vascular abundance at 300 and 500 μm depth increased. Independent evaluation of RCM and D‐OCT images showed similar decreases in ET and improvements in dermal fibers.

Conclusion

This study was the first to utilize RCM and D‐OCT to evaluate the cosmetic effects of a topical retinoid and further substantiate improvements in skin quality.
The HLA‐DRB1*12:97 allele identified in a volunteer donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Baek In‐Cheol , Choi Eun‐Jeong , Kim Hyoung‐Jae , Kim Tai‐Gyu
Published: June 2022

HLA‐DRB1*12:97 differs from HLA‐DRB1*12:02:01:01 in codon 63 in exon 2.
Extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing and carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacterales bloodstream infection after solid organ transplantation: Recent trends in epidemiology and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Pérez‐Nadales Elena , Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , Gutiérrez‐Gutiérrez Belén , Pascual Álvaro , Rodríguez‐Baño Jesús , Martínez‐Martínez Luis , Aguado José María , Torre‐Cisneros Julian
Published: June 2022

Background

Infections caused by multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative bacilli (MDR GNB), in particular extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing (ESBL‐E) and carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), pose a major threat in solid organ transplantation (SOT). Outcome prediction and therapy are challenging due to the scarcity of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) or well‐designed observational studies focused on this population.

Methods

Narrative review with a focus on the contributions provided by the ongoing multinational INCREMENT‐SOT consortium (ClinicalTrials identifier NCT02852902) in the fields of epidemiology and clinical management.

Results

The Spanish Society of Transplantation (SET), the Group for Study of Infection in Transplantation of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (GESITRA‐SEIMC), and the Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI) recently published their recommendations for the management of MDR GNB infections in SOT recipients. We revisit the SET/GESITRA‐SEIMC/REIPI document taking into consideration new evidence that emerged on the molecular epidemiology, prognostic stratification, and treatment of post‐transplant ESBL‐E and CRE infections. Results derived from the INCREMENT‐SOT consortium may support the therapeutic approach to post‐transplant bloodstream infection (BSI). The initiatives devoted to sparing the use of carbapenems in low‐risk ESBL‐E BSI or to repurposing existing non‐β‐lactam antibiotics for CRE in both non‐transplant and transplant patients are reviewed, as well as the eventual positioning in the specific SOT setting of recently approved antibiotics.

Conclusion

Due to the clinical complexity and relative rarity of ESBL‐E and CRE infections in SOT recipients, multinational cooperative efforts such as the INCREMENT‐SOT Project should be encouraged. In addition, RCTs focused on post‐transplant serious infection remain urgently needed.
A review of investigated risk factors for developing equine recurrent uveitis
Authors: Kingsley Nicole B. , Sandmeyer Lynne , Bellone Rebecca R.
Published: June 2022

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is an ocular inflammatory disease that can be difficult to manage clinically. As such, it is the leading cause of bilateral blindness for horses. ERU is suspected to have a complex autoimmune etiology with both environmental and genetic risk factors contributing to onset and disease progression in some or all cases. Work in recent years has aimed at unraveling the primary triggers, such as infectious agents and inherited breed‐specific risk factors, for disease onset, persistence, and progression. This review has aimed at encompassing those factors that have been associated, implicated, or substantiated as contributors to ERU, as well as identifying areas for which additional knowledge is needed to better understand risk for disease onset and progression. A greater understanding of the risk factors for ERU will enable earlier detection and better prognosis through prevention and new therapeutics.
Optimizing seasonal grain intakes with non-linear programming: An application in the feed industry
Authors: Çelikdin Alperen Ekrem
Published: June 2022

In the feed sector, 95% of the input costs arise from the supply of raw materials used in feed production. The selling price is determined by competition in free market conditions. Due to the use of similar technologies and the very small share of production costs in total costs, it is unlikely that a competitive advantage will be gained through innovations in production. Between 30% and 50% of grain products are used in feed ration analysis. Cereals can only be harvested at a certain time of the year. Due to this limited time frame, feed production enterprises have to balance their financial burdens with their operational needs while making their annual stocks. The study was carried out to cover all the relevant businesses of the company, which has feed factories in four regions of Turkey. Based on the season data of the year 2020-2021, the grain purchase planning for the year 2021-2022 was tried to be optimized with non-linear programming. While creating the mathematical model, grain prices, interest rates, production needs according to production planning, sales according to sales forecasts, factory stocking capacities, licensed warehouse rental, transportation, handling and transshipment costs were taken into account.
With this unique paper, in the cattle feed production sector, storage, transportation and handling costs will be minimized. Cost advantage will be provided with optimum purchase planning in the season. According to the grain pricing forecast and market data for the 2021-2022 season, model can provide a cost advantage of 0.7%. Model will also provide insight to the managers for additional storage space investments.
Rotor design optimization of a synchronous generator by considering the damper winding effect to minimize THD using grasshopper optimization algorithm
Authors: Karaoglan Aslan Deniz , Perin Deniz
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to calculate the optimum factor levels for the design parameters namely slot pitch, center slot pitch, and damper width to keep the magnetic flux density distribution in a desired range while minimizing the total harmonic distortion (THD). For this purpose, the numerical simulations are performed in the Maxwell environment. Then by the aid of regression modeling over this simulation results; the mathematical equations between the responses (THD and magnetic flux density distribution) and the factors are calculated. After the modeling phase, grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) is run through these regression equations to determine the optimum values of the rotor design parameters (factors). The confirmations are also performed in the Maxwell environment and the result indicated that the THD is minimized and the magnetic flux density distribution on the teeth is kept in a desired range.
Parkin: a potential target to promote healthy ageing
Authors: Leduc‐Gaudet Jean‐Philippe , Hussain Sabah NA , Gouspillou Gilles
Published: June 2022

Parkin is an E3 ubiquitin ligase mostly known for its role in regulating the removal of defective mitochondria via mitophagy. However, increasing experimental evidence that Parkin regulates several other aspects of mitochondrial biology in addition to its role in mitophagy has emerged over the past two decades. Indeed, Parkin has been shown to regulate mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and mitochondria‐derived vesicle formation, suggesting that Parkin plays key roles in maintaining healthy mitochondria. While Parkin is commonly described as a cytosolic E3 ubiquitin ligase, it was also detected in other cellular compartments, including the nucleus, where it regulates transcription factors and acts as a transcription factor itself. New evidence also suggests that Parkin overexpression can be leveraged to delay ageing. In Drosophila, for example, Parkin overexpression extends lifespan. In mammals, Parkin overexpression delays hallmarks of ageing in several tissues and cell types. Parkin overexpression also confers protection in various models of cellular senescence and neurological disorders closely associated with ageing, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Recently, Parkin overexpression has also been shown to suppress tumour growth. In this review, we discuss newly emerging biological roles of Parkin as a modulator of cellular homeostasis, survival and healthy ageing, and we explore potential mechanisms through which Parkin exerts its beneficial effects on cellular health.

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Semántica para lenguajes sublunares: Charles Travis y el debate contemporáneo en filosofía del lenguaje
Authors: Giraldo-Giraldo Ana María
Published: June 2022

Este libro presenta la teoría de la sensibilidad a la ocasión de Charles Travis en discusión con otras posiciones vigentes sobre el significado. Esta teoría no solo es una muy buena ruta alterna de elucidación de la naturaleza del contenido semántico, sino que hace que la filosofía del lenguaje se replantee la formulación de su problema central: el de la relación entre semántica y pragmática. Las fronteras de ambas no están bien delimitadas, como lo suponen las teorías contemporáneas. Con una imagen wittgensteiniana, lo que se quiere mostrar es que el lenguaje es como un río: tiene una dimensión que fluye como el agua, la pragmática, y otra que permanece idéntica como el lecho, la semántica. Esta relación cambia con el tiempo, de modo que lo fluido se solidifica y lo sólido se fluidifica.
Feather mites of the genus Brephosceles Hull, 1934 (Acariformes: Alloptidae) from the European storm petrel Hydrobates pelagicus (Procellariiformes: Hydrobatidae)
Authors: Mironov Sergey V. , González-Solís Jacob , Mihalca Andrei D. , Stefan Laura M.
Published: June 2022

Three feather mite species of the genus Brephosceles Hull, 1934 (Alloptidae: Alloptinae) were found on the European storm petrel, Hydrobates pelagicus (Procellariiformes: Hydrobatidae), in the Mediterranean Sea and North-east Atlantic Ocean. Brephosceles holoplax sp. n. is described as a new species; B. pelagicus (Vitzthum, 1921) and B. longirostris (Vitzthum, 1921) comb. n. formerly known only from females are redescribed from both sexes. The latter species has been transferred from the genus Alloptes Canestrini, 1879. All descriptions are supported by DNA barcode data.