bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers' perceptions towards inclusive education programs for children with Down syndrome
Authors: Bills Kaycee L. , Mills Bradley
Published: September 2020

Inclusion education is being implemented all across the world for children with special needs. Specifically, children who have Down syndrome are a population that is beginning to have more inclusive education experiences in their k‐12 schooling. Although children with Down syndrome are being included in mainstream classroom settings, studies indicate the perceptions teachers have towards children with Down syndrome in inclusive settings have a significant impact on the child's success,thus emphasising the importance to study the perceptions teachers have towards inclusive programmes for children with Down syndrome. This review of literature analyses 11 studies conducted across the world in order to provide an overview of the overall perceptions teachers have towards inclusion programmes for children with Down syndrome. The results of the 11 studies detail specific reasons for these varied perceptions. Implications for education practice concerning the perceptions teachers have towards children with Down syndrome are also discussed.
Corporate Tax Enforcement Externalities and the Banking Sector
Authors: GALLEMORE JOHN , JACOB MARTIN
Published: September 2020

We explore whether corporate tax enforcement can affect bank lending. Specifically, we hypothesize that tax enforcement efforts aimed at small and midsized enterprises (SME) can improve their information environments, which in turn could lead to increased bank commercial lending. Exploiting the regional structure employed by the IRS until 1999, we find that the corporate tax return audit probability for SMEs is associated with greater commercial lending growth for regionally focused banks. We find similar evidence when exploiting the IRS reorganization from a regional to federal system in 2000. Further results show that tax enforcement's impact on SME informational environments is at least partially responsible for this association: The impact of tax auditing on bank lending is stronger for banks facing greater informational disadvantages and in areas where SMEs face greater hold‐up problems. Finally, we find that the tax audit rate is positively associated with loan portfolio quality, suggesting that tax enforcement can lead to better loan decisions. Our findings are consistent with the tax authority's mandate having important externalities on bank lending and SME access to capital, suggesting that the benefits to tax enforcement go beyond improving tax collection.
The reduction impact of monoglucosyl rutin on abdominal visceral fat: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, parallel‐group
Authors: Hashizume Yushi , Tandia Mahamadou
Published: September 2020

Water soluble α‐glycosylated rutin (4G‐α‐D‐glucopyranosyl rutin, monoglucosyl rutin, MR) was used in this study to evaluate its ability to reduce abdominal visceral fat (AVF). We conducted a study examining 66 healthy Japanese men and women with a body mass index of ≥23 and <30 kg/m2 for 8 weeks. The subjects were randomly assigned to groups via computer random numbers as follows: MR200 group (MR 200 mg/day), MR400 group (MR 400mg/day), or placebo group. The primary outcome was change in the AVF area after 8 weeks of intervention. The secondary outcomes were effects of MR on total fat and subcutaneous fat of umbilical area, lipid‐related markers, and subjective symptoms. The per‐protocol set analysis involved 18 subjects in the placebo group (7 males and 11 females), 20 subjects in the MR200 group (8 males and 12 females), and 20 subjects in the MR400 group (8 males and 12 females). AVF area in both the MR200 and MR400 groups was reduced at week 8, with changes from the baseline (week 0) significantly higher than the placebo group. Additionally, the MR400 group reported improved subjective symptoms concerning being “worried about abdominal fat” at week 4 compared with the placebo group. These results indicate that the consumption of MR (200 and 400 mg/day) for 8 weeks reduced AVF.

Practical Application

Monoglucosyl rutin, an enzymatically modified form of rutin, is a highly stable and water‐soluble flavonoid widely used in food and beverages to prevent oxidation. The present clinical study demonstrated that it may improve overall health by reducing abdominal visceral fat.
Properties of margarines prepared from soybean oil oleogels with mixtures of candelilla wax and beeswax
Authors: Hwang Hong‐Sik , Winkler‐Moser Jill K.
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the physical properties of margarines prepared from oleogels with binary mixtures of candelilla wax (CDW) and beeswax (BW) in soybean oil. Some of the margarines made from oleogels with mixtures of CDW and BW had higher firmness than those made with one wax. For example, a 3% wax margarine made with 25% CDW and 75% BW had significantly higher firmness (0.97 N) than those with 100% CDW (0.59 N) and with 100% BW (0.11 N). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and solid fat content (SFC) analyses revealed eutectic melting properties for binary wax margarines, which may be desirable since wax oleogel‐based margarines often have higher melting points than conventional margarines. For example, the major melting point of 3% wax margarine made with 50% CDW and 50% BW was 43.85 °C, while for margarines made with 100% CDW or 100% BW, the melting points were at 46.00% and 47.61 °C, respectively. SFC was lowest for margarines with 50 or 75% BW; for example, 3% wax margarine with 25% CDW and 75% BW had 0.72% SFC at 40 °C while those with 100% CDW and 100% BW had 1.19 and 1.13% SFC, respectively. However, dropping point constantly decreased with increasing BW ratios. This study demonstrated that by mixing two waxes, the firmness of oleogel‐based margarines could be increased, and the melting point could be tailored by the ratio of two waxes.

Practical Application

This study demonstrated that firmness and melting properties of margarines prepared from wax‐oleogels can be improved by mixing two waxes, making their practical application more feasible. Firmness of margarines prepared with oleogels of binary mixtures of candelilla wax and beeswax were higher than those with pure waxes. The melting point of wax oleogel‐based margarines was decreased by use of binary mixtures of candelilla wax and beeswax.
Biosimilars in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Talathi Saurabh , Baig Kondal R. Kyanam Kabir
Published: September 2020

The advent of biologics has changed outcomes in many chronic conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Biologics have been used for the induction and remission of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease for almost two decades and are effective in patients who used to fail conventional treatment with steroids, immunomodulators. The use of biologics in the treatment of IBD has increased over the last few years, partly due to the rise in its incidence and the use of biologics as a first‐line treatment in severe disease as well as in complicated diseases like penetrating/fistulating Crohn's disease. However, their use is associated with a significant burden to the society with respect to healthcare costs, resulting in the premature discontinuation of therapy in some patients, leading to exacerbations and complications. The introduction of biosimilars a decade ago seems to be a promising approach to reducing the costs related to therapy. Since their introduction, numerous studies conducted in adults and some in children show the efficacy of biosimilars with a similar side‐effect profile to biologics. This review discusses the history of biosimilars in the treatment of IBD, enumerates several such studies and discusses the possibility of using biosimilars in the future.
Identifying the causes and consequences of assembly gaps using a multiplatform genome assembly of a bird‐of‐paradise
Authors: Peona Valentina , Blom Mozes P. K. , Xu Luohao , Burri Reto , Sullivan Shawn , Bunikis Ignas , Liachko Ivan , Haryoko Tri , Jønsson Knud A. , Zhou Qi , Irestedt Martin , Suh Alexander
Published: September 2020

Genome assemblies are currently being produced at an impressive rate by consortia and individual laboratories. The low costs and increasing efficiency of sequencing technologies now enable assembling genomes at unprecedented quality and contiguity. However, the difficulty in assembling repeat‐rich and GC‐rich regions (genomic “dark matter”) limits insights into the evolution of genome structure and regulatory networks. Here, we compare the efficiency of currently available sequencing technologies (short/linked/long reads and proximity ligation maps) and combinations thereof in assembling genomic dark matter. By adopting different de novo assembly strategies, we compare individual draft assemblies to a curated multiplatform reference assembly and identify the genomic features that cause gaps within each assembly. We show that a multiplatform assembly implementing long‐read, linked‐read and proximity sequencing technologies performs best at recovering transposable elements, multicopy MHC genes, GC‐rich microchromosomes and the repeat‐rich W chromosome. Telomere‐to‐telomere assemblies are not a reality yet for most organisms, but by leveraging technology choice it is now possible to minimize genome assembly gaps for downstream analysis. We provide a roadmap to tailor sequencing projects for optimized completeness of both the coding and noncoding parts of nonmodel genomes.
Characteristics, interventions, and longer term outcomes of COVID‐19 ICU patients in Denmark—A nationwide, observational study
Authors: Haase Nicolai , Plovsing Ronni , Christensen Steffen , Poulsen Lone Musaeus , Brøchner Anne Craveiro , Rasmussen Bodil Steen , Helleberg Marie , Jensen Jens Ulrik Stæhr , Andersen Lars Peter Kloster , Siegel Hanna , Ibsen Michael , Jørgensen Vibeke , Winding Robert , Iversen Susanne , Pedersen Henrik Planck , Madsen Jacob , Sølling Christoffer , Garcia Ricardo Sanchez , Michelsen Jens , Mohr Thomas , Mannering Anne , Espelund Ulrick Skipper , Bundgaard Helle , Kirkegaard Lynge , Smitt Margit , Buck David Levarett , Ribergaard Niels‐Erik , Pedersen Helle Scharling , Christensen Birgitte Viebæk , Perner Anders
Published: September 2020

Background

Most data on intensive care unit (ICU) patients with COVID‐19 originate in selected populations from stressed healthcare systems with shorter term follow‐up. We present characteristics, interventions and longer term outcomes of the entire, unselected cohort of all ICU patients with COVID‐19 in Denmark where the ICU capacity was not exceeded.

Methods

We identified all patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 admitted to any Danish ICU from 10 March to 19 May 2020 and registered demographics, chronic comorbidities, use of organ support, length of stay, and vital status from patient files. Risk factors for death were analyzed using adjusted Cox regression analysis.

Results

There were 323 ICU patients with confirmed COVID‐19. Median age was 68 years, 74% were men, 50% had hypertension, 21% diabetes, and 20% chronic pulmonary disease; 29% had no chronic comorbidity. Invasive mechanical ventilation was used in 82%, vasopressors in 83%, renal replacement therapy in 26%, and extra corporeal membrane oxygenation in 8%. ICU stay was median 13 days (IQR 6‐22) and hospital stay 19 days (11‐30). Median follow‐up was 79 days. At end of follow‐up, 118 had died (37%), 15 (4%) were still in hospital hereof 4 in ICU as of 16 June 2020. Risk factors for mortality included male gender, age, chronic pulmonary disease, active cancer, and number of co‐morbidities.

Conclusions

In this nationwide, population‐based cohort of ICU patients with COVID‐19, longer term survival was high despite high age and substantial use of organ support. Male gender, age, and chronic co‐morbidities, in particular chronic pulmonary disease, were associated with increased risk of death.
Aging‐induced aberrant RAGE/PPARα axis promotes hepatic steatosis via dysfunctional mitochondrial β oxidation
Authors: Wan Jian , Wu Xiangsong , Chen Hanbei , Xia Xinyi , Song Xi , Chen Song , Lu Xinyuan , Jin Jie , Su Qing , Cai Dongsheng , Liu Bin , Li Bo
Published: September 2020

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by an increase in hepatic triglyceride (TG) content, is the most common liver disease worldwide. Aging has been shown to increase susceptibility to NAFLD; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. In the present study, we examined hepatic TG content and gene expression profiles in body weight‐matched young (3 months old), middle‐aged (10 months old), and old (20 months old) C57BL/6 mice and found that TGs were markedly accumulated while mitochondrial β‐oxidation‐related genes, including PPARα, were downregulated in the liver of old mice. In addition, advanced glycation end product receptor (RAGE), a key regulator of glucose metabolism, was upregulated in the old mice. Mechanistically, suppression of RAGE upregulated PPARα and its downstream target genes, which in turn led to reduced TG retention. Finally, we found that hepatic RAGE expression was increased in aging patients, a finding that correlated with decreased PPARα levels. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the upregulation of RAGE may play a critical role in aging‐associated liver steatosis.
Boardroom gender diversity and CEO pay deviation: Australian evidence
Authors: Ahmed Ammad , Atif Muhammad , Gyapong Ernest
Published: September 2020

We study whether boardroom gender diversity affects CEO pay. Specifically, we investigate the association between boardroom gender diversity and CEO pay deviation from the optimal level of CEO pay based on firm characteristics and market performance. Using a sample of 2,288 firm‐year observations for the period 2006–2014, we find that boardroom gender diversity is negatively associated with CEO pay deviation, suggesting that firms with gender‐diverse boards are cautious about the consequences of CEO pay deviation (under/overpayment), and thus likely to bridge the gap between CEO actual pay and expected pay. These findings provide important insights to the global discussion on executive compensation. Our findings are robust to alternative variable specifications, propensity score matching, difference‐in‐differences estimations, and generalised method of moments.
Bullous pemphigoid in adolescence, a rare demographic
Authors: Brown Hilary , Lamrock Edwina , Jenkins David
Published: September 2020

Bullous pemphigoid is rarely seen in adolescence, and its presentation, clinical course, and treatment can differ to that found in other age groups. We present a case of bullous pemphigoid in a 16‐year‐old with features of koebnerisation and oral mucosal involvement and provide a brief review of paediatric bullous pemphigoid.
Triglyceride‐Glucose Index (TyG) is associated with erectile dysfunction: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yilmaz Mehmet , Karaaslan Mustafa , Tonyali Senol , Celik Mecit , Toprak Tuncay , Odabas Oner
Published: September 2020

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with endocrine metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetes mellitus (DM), in which insulin resistance (IR) plays a decisive role in pathology. Triglyceride‐glucose index (TyG), a simple, inexpensive and easily accessible IR marker, is calculated by fasting serum glucose and triglyceride values.

Objectives

We aimed to reveal the relationship between TyG index and ED.

Materials and methods

Of 152 male patients, aged between 24‐80 years, admitted to the urology outpatient clinic with complaining erectile insufficiency were evaluated. Liver function tests, complete blood count, fasting serum triglyceride, serum testosterone, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and hemoglobinA1c (HbA1c) were analyzed. TyG index was calculated. All patients were requested to fill in the validated Turkish version of the 5‐item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) survey.

Results

A total of 142 patients were included the study. ED was detected in 91 (64.1%) of the patients. BMI, fasting insulin level, fasting glucose level, IR, GGT, HDL, HbA1c, Triglyceride, TyG, DM, HT, and MetS status of the patients in ED group were statistically significantly higher compared to non‐ED group (all P < .05). It was found that the cutoff value of TyG index for ED was 8.88 (AUC = 0.739, sensitivity 67%, specificity = 68.6%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1026‐1115, P = .002) and TyG index above 8.88 (OR = 3.865, 95% CI = 1686‐8859, P = .001) were found as independent predictors of ED after accounting for BMI, serum total T and IR.

Conclusion

TyG index might be useful in the diagnosis and follow‐up of ED.
Why do Filipinos desire to work more hours?
Authors: Felipe Jesus , Sawada Yasuyuki , Estrada Gemma , Bajaro Donna Faye
Published: September 2020

In 2018, 16.4 per cent of Filipino workers stated that they wanted to have more work hours in their present jobs, to have an additional job, or to have a new job with longer work hours, that is, they declared themselves under‐employed. Analysis of the 2015 Labor Force Survey data shows that relative to being full‐time employed and not under‐employed, the major determinant of being under‐employed is the basic pay. Region, educational attainment, sector, and primary occupation are much less important determinants.
Species and demographic responses to wildlife‐friendly fencing on ungulate crossing success and behavior
Authors: Segar Josiane , Keane Aidan
Published: September 2020

Fencing is a ubiquitous part of the landscape across the Great Plains of North America. This can fragment habitats and reduce the ability of wildlife to move between patches. A relatively novel conservation tool aimed at mitigating these impacts is the use of wildlife‐friendly fencing. However, there is still an incomplete understanding as to how this tool affects ungulate movement and whether it increases habitat connectivity across barriers. Using camera trap data from three properties across the American Prairie Reserve, Montana, we investigated the effects of fencing on four ungulate species. Averaged across species and demographics, this wildlife‐friendly fencing design increased the probability that ungulates successfully crossed a fence by 33% and reduced the time taken to cross by 54%, but has limited effects on species' crossing behavior. Responses to the wildlife‐friendly fencing differed between species, sex, and age class. The greatest improvement in permeability was detected for mule deer, females, and juvenile groups. Yet, permeability remained lowest for elk, juveniles, and males overall at both fence types. Understanding these differences between groups is important when improving or selecting fence designs, and we highlight vulnerable groups that may require further study when implementing this conservation tool.
Tocilizumab as a Therapeutic Agent for Critically Ill Patients Infected with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Petrak Russell M. , Skorodin Nathan C. , Van Hise Nicholas W. , Fliegelman Robert M. , Pinsky Jonathan , Didwania Vishal , Anderson Michael , Diaz Melina , Shah Kairav , Chundi Vishnu V. , Hines David W. , Harting Brian P. , Sidwha Kamo , Yu Brian , Brune Paul , Owaisi Anjum , Beezhold David , Kent Joseph , Vais Dana , Han Alice , Gowda Neethi , Sahgal Nishi , Silverman Jan , Stake Jonathan , Nepomuceno Jenie , Heddurshetti Renuka
Published: September 2020

Tocilizumab is an IL‐6 receptor antagonist with the ability to suppress the cytokine storm in critically ill patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). We evaluated patients treated with tocilizumab for a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection who were admitted between March 13, 2020, and April 16, 2020. This was a multicenter study with data collected by chart review both retrospectively and concurrently. Parameters evaluated included age, sex, race, use of mechanical ventilation (MV), usage of steroids and vasopressors, inflammatory markers, and comorbidities. Early dosing was defined as a tocilizumab dose administered prior to or within 1 day of intubation. Late dosing was defined as a dose administered > 1 day after intubation. In the absence of MV, the timing of the dose was related to the patient’s date of admission only. We evaluated 145 patients. The average age was 58.1 years, 64% were men, 68.3% had comorbidities, and 60% received steroid therapy. Disposition of patients was 48.3% discharged and 29.3% died, of which 43.9% were African American. MV was required in 55.9%, of which 34.5% died. Avoidance of MV (P = 0.002) and increased survival (P < 0.001) was statistically associated with early dosing. Tocilizumab therapy was effective at decreasing mortality and should be instituted early in the management of critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019) COVID‐19).
Clinical implications of trials investigating drug‐drug interactions between cannabidiol and enzyme inducers or inhibitors or common antiseizure drugs
Authors: Patsalos Philip N. , Szaflarski Jerzy P. , Gidal Barry , VanLandingham Kevan , Critchley David , Morrison Gilmour
Published: September 2020

Highly purified cannabidiol (CBD) has demonstrated efficacy with an acceptable safety profile in patients with Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome in randomized, double‐blind, add‐on, controlled phase 3 trials. It is important to consider the possibility of drug‐drug interactions (DDIs). Here, we review six trials of CBD (Epidiolex/Epidyolex; 100 mg/mL oral solution) in healthy volunteers or patients with epilepsy, which investigated potential interactions between CBD and enzymes involved in drug metabolism of common antiseizure drugs (ASDs). CBD did not affect CYP3A4 activity. Induction of CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 led to small reductions in exposure to CBD and its major metabolites. Inhibition of CYP3A4 activity did not affect CBD exposure and caused small increases in exposure to CBD metabolites. Inhibition of CYP2C19 activity led to a small increase in exposure to CBD and small decreases in exposure to CBD metabolites. One potentially clinically important DDI was identified: combination of CBD and clobazam (CLB) did not affect CBD or CLB exposure, but increased exposure to major metabolites of both compounds. Reduction of CLB dose may be considered if adverse reactions known to occur with CLB are experienced when it is coadministered with CBD. There was a small increase of exposure to stiripentol (STP) when coadministered with CBD. STP had no effect on CBD exposure but led to minor decreases in exposure to CBD metabolites. Combination of CBD and valproate (VPA) did not cause clinically important changes in the pharmacokinetics of either drug, or 2‐propyl‐4‐pentenoic acid. Concomitant VPA caused small increases in exposure to CBD metabolites. Dose adjustments are not likely to be necessary when CBD is combined with STP or VPA. The safety results from these trials were consistent with the known safety profile of CBD. These trials indicate an overall low potential for DDIs between CBD and other ASDs, except for CLB.
Lysosomes and signaling pathways for maintenance of quiescence in adult neural stem cells
Authors: Kobayashi Taeko , Kageyama Ryoichiro
Published: September 2020

Quiescence is a cellular strategy for maintaining somatic stem cells in a specific niche in a low metabolic state without senescence for a long period of time. During development, neural stem cells (NSCs) actively proliferate and self‐renew, and their progeny differentiate into both neurons and glial cells to form mature brain tissues. On the other hand, most NSCs in the adult brain are quiescent and arrested in G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Quiescence is essential in order to avoid the precocious exhaustion of NSCs, ensuring a sustainable source of available stem cells in the brain throughout the lifespan. After receiving activation signals, quiescent NSCs reenter the cell cycle and generate new neurons. This switching between quiescence and proliferation is tightly regulated by diverse signaling pathways. Recent studies suggest significant involvement of cellular proteostasis (homeostasis of the proteome) in the quiescent state of NSCs. Proteostasis is the result of integrated regulation of protein synthesis, folding, and degradation. In this review, we discuss regulation of quiescence by multiple signaling pathways, especially bone morphogenetic protein and Notch signaling, and focus on the functional involvement of the lysosome, an organelle governing cellular degradation, in quiescence of adult NSCs.
Human activities' fingerprint on multitrophic biodiversity and ecosystem functions across a major river catchment in China
Authors: Li Feilong , Altermatt Florian , Yang Jianghua , An Shuqing , Li Aimin , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: September 2020

Human‐induced global change dramatically alters individual aspects of river biodiversity, such as taxonomic, phylogenetic or functional diversity, and is predicted to lead to losses of associated ecosystem functions. Understanding these losses and dependencies are critical to human well‐being. Until now, however, most studies have only looked either at individual organismal groups or single functions, and little is known on the effect of human activities on multitrophic biodiversity and on ecosystem multifunctionality in riverine ecosystem. Here we profiled biodiversity from bacteria to invertebrates based on environmental DNA (hereafter, ‘eDNA’) samples across a major river catchment in China, and analysed their dependencies with multiple ecosystem functions, especially linked to C/N/P‐cycling. Firstly, we found a spatial cross‐taxon congruence pattern of communities' structure in the network of the Shaying river, which was related to strong environmental filtering due to human land use. Secondly, human land use explained the decline of multitrophic and multifaceted biodiversity and ecosystem functions, but increased functional redundancy in the riverine ecosystem. Thirdly, biodiversity and ecosystem function relationships at an integrative level showed a concave‐up (non‐saturating) shape. Finally, structural equation modeling suggested that land use affects ecosystem functions through biodiversity‐mediated pathways, including biodiversity loss and altered community interdependence in multitrophic groups. Our study highlights the value of a complete and inclusive assessment of biodiversity and ecosystem functions for an integrated land‐use management of riverine ecosystems.
Relative impacts of land‐use and climate change on grasshopper range shifts have changed over time
Authors: Poniatowski Dominik , Beckmann Christian , Löffler Franz , Münsch Thorsten , Helbing Felix , Samways Michael John , Fartmann Thomas
Published: September 2020

Aim

Stopping the decline of biodiversity is one of today’s greatest challenges. To help address this, we require studies that disentangle the effects of the most important drivers behind species range losses and shifts. In this large‐scale study, we aim to evaluate the relative impacts of changes in land use and climate on distributional changes in grasshoppers.

Location

Central Europe.

Time period

Historical (pre‐1990 vs. 1990–1999); recent (1990–1999 vs. 2000–2017).

Major taxa studied

Orthoptera (hereafter referred to as grasshoppers).

Methods

We used an advanced modelling approach within the framework of spatial point pattern analysis (SPPA) to calculate distributional changes of 58 grasshopper species based on > 100,000 aggregated observational records. Historical and recent range shifts were compared among four functional groups and analysed against: (a) the species temperature index (STI); and (b) the species farmland index (SFI).

Results

During the earlier historical period, most species suffered from large range losses, with habitat specialists declining more than generalists with equal mobility. Range retractions were related to species with high SFI values; that is, species associated with farmland having a high natural value. In contrast, during the recent period the distribution of less mobile species generally remained stable, whereas highly mobile species even expanded their ranges, irrespective of their habitat specificity. Additionally, range expansions occurred mostly among thermophilic species; that is, those with high STI values.

Main conclusions

This is the first large‐scale study world‐wide that quantifies both historical and recent range shifts of numerous grasshopper species. Our results suggest that historical range losses were mainly caused by severe loss of semi‐natural habitats pre‐1990. Recently, global warming has led to range expansions of several grasshopper species. The challenge now is to ensure the persistence of species that might not be able to evade future climate change owing to the increasing lack of suitable refuge habitats in intensive agricultural landscapes.
Treatment preferences in people with haemophilia A or caregivers of people with haemophilia A: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Fifer Simon , Kerr Annette M. , Parken Claire , Hamrosi Kim , Eid Samantha
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The standard of care for people with haemophilia A (PwHA) is regular prophylactic therapy with Factor VIII. However, very little is known about the treatment preferences of PwHA with and without inhibitors, or their caregivers, when presented with the choice between intravenous and subcutaneous prophylactic treatments with different modes of action, side effect risk and frequency of administration.

Methods

We conducted a discrete choice experiment to assess the preferences of PwHA or their caregivers. The survey was conducted in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Italy and the United Kingdom.

Results

There were 56 respondents. The majority of PwHA had hereditary HA (78%) rather than spontaneous HA (22%). Most PwHA were diagnosed when they were under 12 months old (65%). The model identified two segments based on treatment preferences. There is heterogeneity between PwHA in their treatment preferences. People with and without inhibitors prefer to receive treatment via a subcutaneous injection compared to an intravenous infusion. However, for PwHA, efficacy is key; they value a reduction in the annual bleed rate. For those without inhibitors, this also includes a reduction in the risk of developing inhibitors. The side effect risk, administration risk and storage requirements were prioritised differently in each segment.

Conclusions

Results from this study may inform decisions about the value of existing and new treatments for PwHA.
The societal burden of haemophilia A. I – A snapshot of haemophilia A in Australia and beyond
Authors: Brown Laurie J. , La Hai A. , Li Jinjing , Brunner Matthias , Snoke Martin , Kerr Annette M.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Few studies, both in Australia and overseas, have examined the social impacts of living with haemophilia A (HA) or the economic costs associated with the disorder. The purpose of this paper is to examine the epidemiology and societal burden of people with HA (PwHA) in Australia, with a particular focus on men with this disorder.

Methods

The epidemiology and societal burden of HA in Australia, with a particular focus on men with this disorder, were assessed, using data available in the Australian and international literature and publicly available data.

Results

The mean annual prevalence of HA is approximately 1‐2 per 10 000 males. Prophylactic treatment is used in one‐quarter (25.1%) of people with moderate HA, and 82.2% of people with severe HA. Within the latter group, 16.1% have inhibitors for Factor VIII, predisposing them to worse morbidity, mortality and quality of life when compared to the non‐inhibitor population. Joint pain and joint disease occur commonly in PwHA, with up to 70% of adults with HA experiencing joint problems. HA is associated with poor physical health, and PwHA miss school and work due to bleeding‐related events.

Conclusion

HA is associated with substantial economic burden; with large differences in costs reported between countries. Overall, HA imposes a significant burden of disease on PwHA, their families and the community at large.
The trend of cutaneous lesions during COVID‐19 pandemic: lessons from a meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Rajan M. Bandhala , Kumar‐M Praveen , Bhardwaj Abhishek
Published: September 2020

Background

Besides predominant respiratory and gastrointestinal manifestations, reports on cutaneous manifestations in COVID‐19 patients are being noted increasingly.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

This study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A detailed literature search was done in PubMed and Embase from December 1, 2019, till May 1, 2020. Studies reporting cutaneous manifestations in COVID‐19 patients were included. Irrespective of the heterogeneity of data, a random effects model with inverse‐variance approach was used for pooling the prevalence using meta package in R version 3.6.2.

Results

Out of 15,143 articles, 2086 articles were selected for full‐text read. Forty‐three articles were selected for qualitative analysis, of which 10 articles (N = 1682) were included for meta‐analysis. The pooled prevalence of overall cutaneous lesions was 5.69 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.87–15.98; I2 88%). The pooled prevalence of other outcome parameters were as follows: viral exanthem‐like presentation 4.15 (95% CI: 1.33–12.23; I2 88%), maculopapular rash 3.81 (95% CI: 1.02–13.18; I2 87%), vesiculobullous lesions 1.67 (95% CI: 0.70–3.96; I2 0%).

Conclusion

The estimated prevalence of cutaneous manifestations in COVID‐19 was 5.69%. Other manifestations were urticaria, chilblain‐like lesions, livedo reticularis, and finger/toe gangrene. Although it is premature to conclude the prevalence of the cutaneous manifestations during this ongoing pandemic, our report may be a stimulating factor for the physicians to perform further vigilant streamlined reporting of cutaneous manifestations in COVID‐19 patients to estimate the final prevalence.
Effects of different nut oils on the structures and properties of gel‐like emulsions induced by ultrasound using soy protein as an emulsifier
Authors: Geng Mengjie , Hu Tan , Zhou Qi , Taha Ahmed , Qin Lang , Lv Wenhui , Xu Xiaoyun , Pan Siyi , Hu Hao
Published: September 2020

Gel‐like emulsions were produced by high‐intensity ultrasound (HIU) emulsification using soy protein as an emulsifier. Sunflower (a seed kernel oil), peanut (a groundnut oil), hazelnut, walnut, almond and pine nut oils were chosen as oil phases. The kinds of nut oil significantly affect the structures and properties of gel‐like emulsions. The particle size of sunflower oil gel‐like emulsion was smallest. Moreover, the macrorheological and microrheological results indicated that the values of apparent viscosity, storage modulus (G′) and elasticity index (EI) of sunflower and almond oil gel‐like emulsions were higher while those of the walnut and pine nut oil gel‐like emulsions were lower. Moreover, the sunflower oil gel‐like emulsion was more stable after 2‐month storage. The current study illustrated that HIU was of great importance for the production of high‐viscosity gel‐like emulsions. Furthermore, the differences of nut oils resulted in diverse physicochemical properties of gel‐like emulsions.
La liberté syndicale dans l’industrie de la confection au Bangladesh, ou la schizophrénie de la réglementation du travail
Authors: RAHIM Mia Mahmudur , ISLAM Samidul
Published: September 2020

La liberté syndicale est indispensable à l'institution syndicale. Au Bangladesh, les dispositions qui protègent déjà ce principe restent inopérantes dans la confection. Les autorités doivent pouvoir s'appuyer sur un cadre législatif capable de promouvoir la syndicalisation dans le secteur. Pour les auteurs, ce cadre devrait mobiliser les compétences et ressources complémentaires des différents acteurs en présence (État, industriels locaux, syndicats et marques internationales) et les amener à s'engager et agir sur le long terme pour améliorer la situation des relations professionnelles dans l'industrie de la confection au Bangladesh, à la fois sous l'angle socio‐économique et sous l'angle politique.
Analysis of differentially expressed proteins affecting insecticidal protein content in Bt cotton under high‐temperature and water deficit stress using label‐free quantitation
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Tian Qiaofeng , Zhao Zixu , Dong Zhaodi , Chen Yuan , Chen Dehua
Published: September 2020

Differently expression proteins under high‐temperature and drought stress were screened to investigate how stress affected the insecticidal protein content. These stresses decrease insecticidal protein, so the goal of this study was to provide a theoretical reference for maintaining the insect resistance of Bt cotton. The effect of high‐temperature and drought stress on differently expression protein in Bt cotton cultivar Sikang 3 was investigated using a label‐free quantitation method. Two treatments [40% field capacity and 38°C (HD) and 70% field capacity and 32°C (CK)] were imposed in a controlled environment. The results showed that high‐temperature and drought significantly degraded insecticidal protein content in bolls, with a decrease of 65.2 ng/g fresh weight (FW) compared to CK. The analysis of differently expression proteins with a label‐free quantitative proteomic approach showed that 83 proteins were significantly up‐regulated, but 104 proteins were significantly down‐regulated (Ratio > ±2, p value < 0.05) compared with CK. In addition, 122 new proteins were detected and 167 proteins were not detected. The analysis of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways showed that 14 KEGG pathways, in which the difference expression proteins were enriched, were significantly affected and three KEGG pathways (carbohydrate digestion and absorption, protein export and protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum) were related to protein synthesis. In the carbohydrate digestion and absorption pathway, the capacity of starch hydrolysis for HD increased, while the capacity to phosphorylate the hexoses, fructose and glucose decreased. In protein export pathway, the synthesis of peptide for HD was not significant affected, while the process of peptide transferred into the endoplasmic reticulum was confined. In the protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum pathway, the capacity of ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis increased.
Effect of hypertriglyceridemia in dyslipidemia‐induced impaired glucose tolerance and sex differences in dietary features associated with hypertriglyceridemia among the Japanese population: The Gifu Diabetes Study
Authors: Nonoyama Yukiko , Yamamoto Mayumi , Oba Shino , Horikawa Yukio , Nagata Chisato , Yabe Daisuke , Takeda Jun ,   Gifu Diabetes Study Group
Published: September 2020

Aims/Introduction

The mechanisms underlying hypertriglyceridemia‐induced impaired glucose tolerance in Japanese individuals remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate the effect of hypertriglyceridemia on glucose metabolism in comparison with that of increased low‐density lipoprotein or decreased high‐density lipoprotein levels and to elucidate the sex differences in hypertriglyceridemia‐related dietary intake among Japanese individuals.

Materials and Methods

We randomly selected 898 (384 men and 514 women) participants aged 40–78 years in the Gifu Diabetes Study; those taking medication for dyslipidemia or diabetes mellitus were excluded. Serum levels of glucose metabolism parameters and the food frequency were measured cross‐sectionally. The glycated hemoglobin was measured again after 5 years.

Results

Glucose metabolism parameters and the percentage of individuals with impaired glucose tolerance were significantly higher in the high triglyceride group in men and women. Similar trends were observed in the low high‐density lipoprotein group, but only in men. Meanwhile, only the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was higher in the high low‐density lipoprotein group. In non‐obese men, the percentage of energy intake from alcohol per total daily energy intake was significantly greater in the high triglyceride group. In obese women, the total energy intake was significantly greater in the high triglyceride group. At the 5‐year follow up, the risk of elevated glycated hemoglobin levels with hypertriglyceridemia was increased in men.

Conclusions

Hypertriglyceridemia is a stronger risk factor for impaired glucose tolerance than increased low‐density lipoprotein or decreased high‐density lipoprotein. For dietary habits, increased daily alcohol energy intake in non‐obese men and increased total energy intake in obese women were associated with hypertriglyceridemia.
Efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy on glucose levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ranjbaran Hossein , Mohammadi Jobani Bahareh , Amirfakhrian Elham , Alizadeh‐Navaei Reza
Published: September 2020

Aims/Introduction

In recent years, mesenchymal cellular therapies have received much attention in the treatment of diabetes. In this meta‐analysis, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive literature search was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Central databases. A total of 1,721 articles were identified, from which nine full‐text clinical trials were qualified to enter the current meta‐analysis. The assessment groups included patients with type 2 diabetes, and levels of C‐peptide, glycosylated hemoglobin and insulin dose were analyzed before and after mesenchymal stem cell infusion. Data analysis was carried out in Stata version 11, and the Jadad Score Scale was applied for quality assessment.

Results

Changes in levels of C‐peptide after mesenchymal stem cell therapy were: standardized mean difference 0.20, 95% confidence interval −0.61 to 1.00, glycosylated hemoglobin levels were: standardized mean difference −1.45, 95% confidence interval −2.10 to −0.79 and insulin dose were: standardized mean difference −1.40, 95% confidence interval −2.88 to 0.09.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis of prospective studies showed associations between mesenchymal stem cell therapy and control of glucose level in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Estimating the economic returns to community‐level interventions that build resilience to flooding
Authors: Yaron Gil , Wilson Dave
Published: September 2020

Flooding is among the largest economic costs of climate change and vulnerable communities in some of the poorest countries are particularly badly affected. Community‐planned interventions to build resilience to floods following climate shocks and stresses play a role in major global development programmes but evidence on their costs and benefits is limited. This paper presents a way of combining evidence from participatory methods to understand changes that have occurred with more formal economic modelling and can be widely used for community‐planned interventions to tackle flooding. We consider projects in flood‐affected communities in Myanmar implemented as part of the Department for International Development‐funded Building Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Extremes and Disasters programme and find estimated economic benefits over a 10‐year period (based on 12–18 months of postintervention data) are significantly greater than estimated costs. The highest returns accrue to relatively small‐scale infrastructure investments planned with communities and local government, drawing on donor finance with community contributions of labour.
Disorders of synaptic vesicle fusion machinery
Authors: Melland Holly , Arvell Elyas H. , Gordon Sarah L.
Published: September 2020

The revolution in genetic technology has ushered in a new age for our understanding of the underlying causes of neurodevelopmental, neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders, revealing that the presynaptic machinery governing synaptic vesicle fusion is compromised in many of these neurological disorders. This builds upon decades of research showing that disturbance to neurotransmitter release via toxins can cause acute neurological dysfunction. In this review, we focus on disorders of synaptic vesicle fusion caused either by toxic insult to the presynapse or alterations to genes encoding the key proteins that control and regulate fusion: the SNARE proteins (synaptobrevin, syntaxin‐1 and SNAP‐25), Munc18, Munc13, synaptotagmin, complexin, CSPα, α‐synuclein, PRRT2 and tomosyn. We discuss the roles of these proteins and the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning neurological deficits in these disorders.

image
Caspase inhibitor attenuates the shape changes in the alveolar ridge following tooth extraction: A pilot study in rats
Authors: Schwarze Uwe Yacine , Strauss Franz‐Josef , Gruber Reinhard
Published: September 2020

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine whether the inhibition of apoptosis via pan‐caspase inhibitors can attenuate the changes in the alveolar ridge upon tooth extraction.

Background

Cells undergoing apoptosis might play a central role in the onset of alveolar bone resorption and the ensuing bone atrophy following tooth extraction. Caspases are proteases that regulate apoptotic cell death. It is, therefore, reasonable to hypothesize that blocking apoptosis with pan‐caspase inhibitors attenuates the changes in the alveolar ridge following tooth extraction.

Methods

In 16 inbred rats, the mandibular first (M1) and second (M2) molars of one side were extracted. Following random allocation, the rats received either a cell‐permeable pan‐caspase inhibitor or diluent. After a healing period of 10 days, changes in shape and height of the alveolar ridge were examined using geometric morphometrics and linear measurements based on micro‐computed tomography.

Results

Geometric morphometric analysis revealed that the pan‐caspase inhibitor prevented major shape changes of the alveolar ridge following M1 tooth extraction (P < .05). Furthermore, linear measurements confirmed that the pan‐caspase inhibitor significantly prevented the atrophy of the alveolar ridge height following M1 tooth extraction compared to the diluent controls (−0.53 mm vs −0.24 mm; P = .012). M2 tooth extraction caused no shape changes of the alveolar ridge, and thus, the pan‐caspase inhibitor group did not differ from the control group (−0.14 mm vs −0.05 mm; P = .931).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the inhibition of apoptosis may attenuate shape changes of the alveolar ridge following M1 tooth extraction in rodents.
Molecular detection and identification of spotted fever group rickettsiae in ticks collected from horses in Cuba
Authors: Díaz‐Sánchez A. A. , Chilton N. B. , Roblejo‐Arias L. , Fonseca‐Rodríguez O. , Marrero‐Perera R. , Diyes C. P. , Yunik M. E. M. , Lobo‐Rivero E. , Corona‐González B.
Published: September 2020

Spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiae are obligatory intracellular bacteria that cause disease in humans and other animals. Ixodid ticks are the principal vectors of SFG rickettsiae. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and species identity of SFG rickettsiae in ticks and horses from urban and rural areas of western Cuba using PCR assays. Tick samples, collected from 79 horses, consisted of 14 Amblyomma mixtum adults, 111 Dermacentor nitens adults and 19 pools of D. nitens nymphs (2–5 individuals/pool). The PCR results revealed the presence of Rickettsia spp. in 64% of the A. mixtum adults, 16% of the D. nitens adults, and 11% of the pooled samples of D. nitens nymphs. In contrast, Rickettsia spp. was not detected in any of the 200 horse blood samples included in this study. DNA sequence data of the rickettsial 17 kDa antigen gene showed that Rickettsia amblyommatis was present in A. mixtum; and Rickettsia felis in D. nitens. This is the first report of R. felis in D. nitens in Cuba. The present study extends our knowledge of the potential vector spectrum and distribution of SFG rickettsiae pathogens in western Cuba.
New views on old seeds: a new description of Genomosperma sheds light on early seed evolution
Authors: Hetherington Alexander J.
Published: September 2020

This article is a Commentary on Meade et al. (2021), 229: 1782–1794.