bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint Oligopsony‐Oligopoly Power in Food Processing Industries: Application to the us Broiler Industry
Authors: Hamilton Stephen F. , Sunding David L.
Published: July 2020

Food manufacturers and retailers mediate transactions between farm product markets and finished product markets for a large number of agricultural products. In such settings, producers at the intermediary stages of the supply chain have the potential to exercise market power jointly over agricultural producers in the upstream farm product market and over consumers in the downstream market for finished goods. In this paper, we examine settings in which food processors jointly exercise oligopsony power over farmers in the upstream market and oligopoly power over consumers in the downstream market. We demonstrate how forward contracts in the procurement market affect equilibrium prices in the downstream consumer market, allowing food processors to raise margins by leveraging oligopsony power. We apply our model to the US broiler industry and show that tournament contracts for live chicken procurement can be employed as an instrument to extend spatial oligopsony power in the upstream procurement market to soften price competition in the downstream processed goods market.
Combined association of massive choroidal and optic nerve invasion as a prognostic relevance in primary retinoblastoma: A 10‐year study
Authors: Kashyap Seema , Singh Lata , Kumar Nikhil , Singh Mithalesh Kumar , Pushker Neelam , Bakhshi Sameer , Sen Seema , Lomi Neiwete , Meel Rachna , Chawla Bhavna
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To determine the significance of both massive choroidal invasion and optic nerve invasion (retrolaminar [(RL]+cut end [CE]) as a criterion for classifying high metastatic potential retinoblastoma and their relationship with other known histopathological high‐risk features.

Methods

A retrospective review of 650 eyes diagnosed as retinoblastoma over a 10‐year period. In our study, there is male predominance and a higher percentage of the poorly differentiated tumors. The age of most of the patients ranges from 1 month to 8 years with a median age of 2 years.

Results

There were 24% of eyes with massive choroidal invasion and 18% of eyes with optic nerve invasion up to the cut end. On performing Cox‐proportional hazard analysis, it was found that massive choroidal invasion in association with optic nerve invasion up to the cut end was an independent prognostic parameter. On Kaplan‐Meier analysis, overall survival had reduced in patients having both massive choroidal invasion and an optic nerve cut end invasion along with orbital invasion (P < .05).

Conclusion

The presence of massive choroidal invasion in association with optic nerve cut end invasion (RL+CE) could be used as a better prognostic predictor in assessing retinoblastoma patients with high metastatic potential and need to be kept for longer follow up.
Clinical molecular genetics evaluation in women with reproductive failures
Authors: Bilal Mahmood Y. , Katara Gajendra , Dambaeva Svetlana , Kwak‐Kim Joanne , Gilman‐Sachs Alice , Beaman Kenneth D.
Published: July 2020

Molecular diagnostics is a rapidly growing branch of the clinical laboratory and has accelerated the advance of personalized medicine in the fields of pharmacogenomics, pharmacogenetics, and nutrigenomics. The versatility of molecular biology allows it to be effective in several medical fields that include reproduction, immunogenetics, and virology. Implementation of molecular and sequencing technology in reproductive medicine can add another layer of understanding to better define the causes behind infertility and recurrent reproductive loss. In the following, we examine current molecular methods for probing factors behind reproductive pregnancy loss including reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and next generation sequencing (NGS). We review several current and potential genetic (DNA) and transcriptional (RNA)‐based parameters in women with infertility that can be significant in diagnosis and treatment. These molecular factors can be inferred either from genomic DNA or RNA locally within the endometrium. Furthermore, we consider infection‐based abnormalities such as human herpesvirus‐6 and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Finally, we present future directions as well as data demonstrating the potential role of human endogenous retroviruses in pregnancy loss. We hope these discussions will assist the clinician in delineating some of the intricate molecular factors that can contribute to infertility and recurrent reproductive failures.
How Government Credibility and Social Morality Work in a Public Health Emergency. A Study of Public Quarantine Willingness in COVID‐19
Authors: Xiang Pengcheng , Guo Jin , Liu Qiqi
Published: July 2020

This study explores the relationships among the variables: willingness to quarantine, perception of the epidemic, willingness to do outdoor activities, government credibility, and public morality. To understand these relationships, it integrates theories including epidemic prevention and control, government credibility, public morality, and social network systems. Structural equation modeling (SEM) with bootstrapping estimation was conducted using data calculated from 368 healthy citizens who are quarantining at home due to COVID‐19 in Chinese cities that have launched a first‐level primary public safety incident response. The results show that residents’ perception of the epidemic has a positive effect on their willingness to quarantine, and willingness to do outdoor activities has a negative effect. Moreover, government credibility and public morality have a mediating effect on the relationship between the perception of epidemic and willingness to quarantine. What is more, government credibility has a moderating effect on the relationship between willingness to do outdoor activities and willingness to quarantine. We discuss the implications of these results for beating future epidemics that may break out.
Do cultural differences affect users’ e‐learning adoption? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Yang , Wang Ning , Li Yixuan , Zhou Ruoxin , Li Shuangshuang
Published: July 2020

The great advantages of e‐learning have been recognized, and efforts have been made to promote e‐learning adoption. Despite valuable research achievements from technology adoption, previous studies built their models from different perspectives. In this study, to offer a comprehensive research model on e‐learning adoption, we integrated these models (ie, TAM, TPB and IDT) and included culture as a moderator. Based on 45 relevant empirical research, this study conducted a meta‐analysis to explore key determinants of users’ attitude and behavioral intention to adopt e‐learning. Combined with traditional technology acceptance theories and innovation diffusion theory, we developed a comprehensive model and explored the moderating role of culture. The results indicate that this integrated technology acceptance model can be applied to better understand e‐learning adoption. The moderator analysis shows that the influence of subjective norms and self‐efficacy on users’ behavior intention is more salient in the collectivistic culture, whereas perceived usefulness is more important for online learners in an individualistic culture.
Egocentric metric representations in peripersonal space: A bridge between motor resources and spatial memory
Authors: Ruggiero Gennaro , Ruotolo Francesco , Orti Renato , Rauso Barbara , Iachini Tina
Published: July 2020

Research on visuospatial memory has shown that egocentric (subject‐to‐object) and allocentric (object‐to‐object) reference frames are connected to categorical (non‐metric) and coordinate (metric) spatial relations, and that motor resources are recruited especially when processing spatial information in peripersonal (within arm reaching) than extrapersonal (outside arm reaching) space. In order to perform our daily‐life activities, these spatial components cooperate along a continuum from recognition‐related (e.g., recognizing stimuli) to action‐related (e.g., reaching stimuli) purposes. Therefore, it is possible that some types of spatial representations rely more on action/motor processes than others. Here, we explored the role of motor resources in the combinations of these visuospatial memory components. A motor interference paradigm was adopted in which participants had their arms bent behind their back or free during a spatial memory task. This task consisted in memorizing triads of objects and then verbally judging what was the object: (1) closest to/farthest from the participant (egocentric coordinate); (2) to the right/left of the participant (egocentric categorical); (3) closest to/farthest from a target object (allocentric coordinate); and (4) on the right/left of a target object (allocentric categorical). The triads appeared in participants' peripersonal (Experiment 1) or extrapersonal (Experiment 2) space. The results of Experiment 1 showed that motor interference selectively damaged egocentric‐coordinate judgements but not the other spatial combinations. The results of Experiment 2 showed that the interference effect disappeared when the objects were in the extrapersonal space. A third follow‐up study using a within‐subject design confirmed the overall pattern of results. Our findings provide evidence that motor resources play an important role in the combination of coordinate spatial relations and egocentric representations in peripersonal space.
Oil price shocks, real economic activity and uncertainty
Authors: Charles Amélie , Chua Chew Lian , Darné Olivier , Suardi Sandy
Published: July 2020

This paper develops a structural factor vector autoregressive (SFVAR) model to study the effect of oil price shock on economic activity. The model allows both types of uncertainty (real economic activity and oil price) todirectlyaffect oil prices and economic activity. More importantly, the factor variable, which is akin to the macroeconomic uncertainty measure of Henzel and Rengel (2017), captures the significantindirectspillover effects of both supply‐related (oil prices) and demand‐related (business cycle) shocks on oil prices and economic activity. By incorporating the indirect effect of this macroeconomic uncertainty, the response of economic activity to oil price shocks is amplified. In some countries the real effect is prolonged. Results for net oil exporting (importing) countries show that an oil price hike has an appreciably positive (negative) effect on economic activity. The factor dynamics of all countries, except for France, are highly correlated with each other, while they are all moderately correlated with some commonly used measures of macroeconomic uncertainty.
Adherence to eye examination guidelines among individuals with diabetes: An analysis of linked health data
Authors: Gibson Alice A. , Humphries Jacob , Gillies Mark , Nassar Natasha , Colagiuri Stephen
Published: July 2020

Importance

Screening for diabetic retinopathy for early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss.

Background

We aimed to assess rates of eye examination of people with diabetes, adherence with national guidelines and investigate characteristics of those who do not adhere.

Design

We used data from the 45 and Up Study, a cohort study of 267 153 randomly selected residents aged ≥45 years from New South Wales, Australia. Individual survey data collected in 2006 to 2009 were linked to corresponding national Medicare Benefits Schedule claims data for 2006 to 2016.

Participants

The study sample included 24 832 participants who reported having diabetes and at least 5 years of observation.

Methods

Claims for visits to optometrists or ophthalmologists were assessed to estimate rates of eye examination. Poisson regression models were used to investigate factors associated with non‐adherence.

Main outcome measure

Participants were classified as adherent if the average time between eye care claims was consistent with national guideline of having an eye exam every 2 years.

Results

Of 50% to 75% people with diabetes met the biennial eye examination guidelines and only 21% to 28% with diabetes duration ≥10 years were adherent to the annual eye examination guideline. Characteristics associated with greatest (~1.3‐fold) risk of non‐adherence were smoking, age <60 years and higher income.

Conclusions and relevance

There is a clear need to improve rates of adherence to eye examination guidelines among people with diabetes to reduce the personal and societal burden of diabetic retinopathy.
Power to see—Drivers of aerobic glycolysis in the mammalian retina: A review
Authors: Haydinger Cameron D. , Kittipassorn Thaksaon , Peet Daniel J.
Published: July 2020

The mammalian retina converts most glucose to lactate rather than catabolizing it completely to carbon dioxide via oxidative phosphorylation, despite the availability of oxygen. This unusual metabolism is known as aerobic glycolysis or the Warburg effect. Molecules and pathways that drive aerobic glycolysis have been identified and thoroughly studied in the context of cancer but remain relatively poorly understood in the retina. Here, we review recent research on the molecular mechanisms that underly aerobic glycolysis in the retina, focusing on key glycolytic enzymes including hexokinase 2 (HK2), pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA). We also discuss the potential involvement of cell signalling and transcriptional pathways including phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) signalling, fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signalling, and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 (HIF‐1), which have been implicated in driving aerobic glycolysis in the context of cancer.
Retinal pigment epithelium and age‐related macular degeneration: A review of major disease mechanisms
Authors: Somasundaran Shreya , Constable Ian J. , Mellough Carla B. , Carvalho Livia S.
Published: July 2020

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly population. Degeneration/dysregulation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a supportive monolayer of cells underlying the photoreceptors, is commonly seen in patients with AMD. While treatment exists for the neovascular/wet form of AMD, there is currently no cure for the non‐exudative/dry form of AMD, making it imperative to understand the pathogenesis of this disease. Although our understanding of the aetiology of AMD has increased over the years, the underlying disease mechanism has not yet been identified, mainly due to the multifactorial nature of this disease. Herein, we review some of the commonly proposed degeneration pathways of RPE cells and their role in the pathogenesis of AMD; including activation of the complement cascade, oxidative stress‐induced cell death mechanisms, dysfunctional mitochondria and the role of crystallins in AMD disease progression.
COUNTY‐LEVEL DETERMINANTS OF SOCIAL DISTANCING (OR LACK THEREOF) DURING THE COVID‐19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Baradaran Motie Golnaz , Biolsi Christopher
Published: July 2020

We study the relationship between a number of socioeconomic, demographic, and political variables and county‐level measures of social mobility in the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States. We find that higher income, more educated populations, older populations, a higher share of Asian residents, a higher share of residents in a formal religious institution, and the early presence of the virus all significantly correlate with reduced mobility. A higher share of the resident population that is Black or Hispanic or a greater vote share for Donald Trump in the 2016 election significantly predict smaller mobility declines. (JEL R20, R23, R28)
Factors associated with sleep disturbance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Lee Sang Hee , Lee Haejung , Kim Yun Seong , Kim Ki Uk , Park Hye‐Kyung , Lee Min Ki
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Poor sleep quality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been associated with poor health outcomes. However, there is a lack of research on factors associated with sleep disturbance in patients with COPD.

Objectives

We investigated patterns of sleep disturbance and factors associated with sleep impairment in patients with COPD.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter cross‐sectional study enrolling a sample of 245 COPD subjects. All patients completed the patient‐reported measure, the COPD and Asthma Sleep Impact Scale (CASIS) to assess sleep impairment. The St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), the 36‐item Short‐Form health survey (SF‐36), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the COPD Self‐Efficacy Scale (CSES) were utilized to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQL), anxiety/depression and self‐efficacy, respectively.

Results

About 35.1% of the patients reported that they had a bad night’s sleep. Univariate analysis showed that the CASIS total score was significantly correlated with the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, SGRQ total score, SF‐36 PCS, SF‐36 MCS, HADS‐A, HADS‐D and CSES (all P < 0.05). In a multivariate analysis, SGRQ total (r = 0.19, P = 0.006), SF‐36 PCS (r = 0.14, P = 0.037), HADS‐D (r = 0.24, P ≤ 0.001), and CSES(r = −0.12, P = 0.010) were independently associated with the CASIS score.

Conclusions

In this study, 35% of clinically stable patients with COPD reported poor sleep quality. Depression, poorer HRQL and self‐efficacy were significantly associated with sleep disturbance in patients with COPD.
S‐100 protein and SOX10‐positive breast carcinoma mimicking metastatic melanoma
Authors: Newman John , Brahmbhatt Meera , Stoff Benjamin K. , Martinez Anthony P.
Published: July 2020

We present a case detailing a 70‐year‐old female with a history of triple‐negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) of the left breast and contralateral stage pT2a nodular melanoma of the right upper arm who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy of the right axilla demonstrating a metastatic epithelioid tumor that was strongly positive for S‐100 protein and SOX10. The tumor cells were negative for HMB‐45 and Melan‐A and positive for CK7 and other breast markers (GCDFP15, mammaglobin, and GATA3). While concerning for metastatic melanoma based on clinical history and initial immunohistochemistry, tumor morphology and subsequent immunohistochemistry was supportive of metastatic breast adenocarcinoma. This case demonstrates a rare but perilous diagnostic pitfall of triple‐negative breast carcinomas that strongly and diffusely express S‐100 protein and SOX10 mimicking melanoma.
Global ore trade is an important gateway for non‐native species: A case study of alien plants in Chinese ports
Authors: Yu Shengxiang , Fan Xiaohong , Gadagkar Sudhindra R. , Albright Thomas P. , Li Jin , Xue Tiantian , Xu Han , Huang Ying , Shao Xiuling , Ding Wei , Zhou Minghua , Hu Changsong , Li Zhenyu
Published: July 2020

Aim

Biological invasion has become one of the most important environmental concerns in many countries, with considerable time, money and effort being spent in the prevention and eradication of invasive species. Since mineral ores tend to harbour seeds from the local plants, our aim was to study the non‐native plants collected in Chinese ports to understand the influence of global ore trade on biological invasion.

Location

China.

Methods

We surveyed 75 ore heaps across six types of ore in 22 Chinese port cities from 2010 to 2016 and collected 737 voucher specimens of non‐native plants, out of which 709 specimens were traced to the country of origin. Using the software Maxent, we evaluated the risk of invasion from these non‐native plants based on the global ore trade flow, traced their route and predicted the regions in China most vulnerable to invasion by these plants.

Results

Of the 407 non‐native plant species identified, most were from India, followed by Malaysia, Swaziland, Mexico, and Iran. Taxonomically, there were representations from 49 families, notably Fabaceae, Poaceae, Asteraceae and Solanaceae. The non‐native plant species were represented by varying number of species, from a single specimen to 179. Analysis of the invasion risk indicated that the entire coast of China was at high risk. Furthermore, two major potential introduction pathways were also identified, namely the Yangtze drainage basin and the land from the Gulf of Tonkin to Sichuan Basin.

Main conclusion

An important pathway for the invasion of non‐native plants is the inadvertent transportation of seeds through global ore trade networks. Based on this study, we suggest greater monitoring and cooperation in the international ore trade for better management, and creating public awareness of the dangers of non‐native species to help minimize the risk of transporting non‐native plants by the global ore trade network.
Prophetic confrontation, civil harmony, and Christian responsibility
Authors: Gushee David P.
Published: July 2020

This election season is a time for prophetic confrontation, not civil harmony.
Disparity of child/parent‐reported quality of life in cerebral palsy persists into adolescence
Authors: Sentenac Mariane , Rapp Marion , Ehlinger Virginie , Colver Allan , Thyen Ute , Arnaud Catherine
Published: July 2020

Aim

To examine the evolution of child–parent discrepancy in reporting quality of life (QoL) between childhood and adolescence in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and to investigate potential factors associated with such a discrepancy.

Method

We used data from the SPARCLE (Study of PARticipation of Children with CP Living in Europe) study, a population‐based cohort study of children with CP, aged 8 to 12 years at baseline (in 2004–2005), in nine European centres, who were followed up at the age of 13 to 17 years. The KIDSCREEN‐52 Quality of Life measure was used at baseline and follow‐up; 354 child–parent dyads out of 500 eligible dyads were followed up (201 males, 153 females). We used intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) to examine agreement between parent proxy‐reports and self‐reported QoL. We used linear regression to examine factors associated with child–parent discrepancy in QoL reporting.

Results

Agreement was low to moderate (ICC=0.16–0.48) in childhood and in adolescence across all QoL domains. In four domains (moods and emotions, self‐perception, relationship with parents and home life, and social support and peers), the extent of the discrepancy increased significantly between childhood and adolescence. Parenting stress, child pain, and child behaviour problems influenced parent proxy‐reports during both childhood and adolescence.

Interpretation

The points of view of the child and their parents should be treated as complementary to obtain better knowledge regarding the QoL of children and adolescents with CP.
Cervical myelopathy in cerebral palsy
Authors: Jia Mengxian , Ying Jinwei , Teng Honglin
Published: July 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Hung et al. on pages 1147–1153of this issue.
Cenostigma tocantinum, a new host of Colletotrichum siamense
Authors: Ferreira e Ferreira Ana Francisca Tibúrcia A. , Silva Blenda N. S. , Mota Adolfo J. , Lima Jânia Lília S. B.
Published: July 2020

Trees of Cenostigma tocantinum showing brown leaf spots surrounded by chlorotic areas were observed at the campus of the Federal University of Amazonas, Brazil, in 2018. Necrotic lesions were covered by orange masses of hyaline cylindrical conidia with rounded ends, typical of the genus Colletotrichum. Three monoconidial isolates were subject of DNA extraction followed by PCR amplification and sequencing of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS rDNA), beta‐tubulin 2 (TUB2) and glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses and morphological characterization allowed the identification of the isolates as C. siamense, a member of the C. gloeosporioides species complex. The pathogenicity of C. siamense was confirmed, and Koch's postulates completed. This is the first worldwide report of C. siamense causing leaf spots on Ce. tocantinum.
Late‐onset epilepsy and 25‐year cognitive change: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study
Authors: Johnson Emily L. , Krauss Gregory L. , Walker Keenan A. , Brandt Jason , Kucharska‐Newton Anna , Mosley Jr Thomas H. , Yasar Sevil , Gottesman Rebecca F.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To define the association between late‐onset epilepsy (LOE) and 25‐year change in cognitive performance.

Methods

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study is a multicenter longitudinal cohort study with participants from four U.S. communities. From linked Medicare claims, we identified cases of LOE, defined as ≥2 seizure‐related diagnostic codes starting at age ≥67. The ARIC cohort underwent evaluation with in‐person visits at intervals of 3‐15 years. Cognition was evaluated 4 times over >25 years (including before the onset of seizures) using the Delayed Word Recall Test (DWRT), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Word Fluency Test (WFT); a global z‐score was also calculated. We compared the longitudinal cognitive changes of participants with and without LOE, adjusting for demographics and LOE risk factors.

Results

From 8033 ARIC participants with midlife cognitive testing and Medicare claims data available (4523 [56%] female, 1392 [17%] Black), we identified 585 cases of LOE. The rate of cognitive decline was increased on all measures in the participants who developed LOE compared to those without LOE. On the measure of global cognition, participants with LOE declined by −0.43 z‐score points more over 25 years than did participants without epilepsy (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.59 to −0.27). Prior to the onset of seizures, cognitive decline was more rapid on the DWRT, DSST, and global z‐scores in those who would later develop LOE than it was in non‐LOE participants. Results were similar after excluding data from participants with dementia.

Significance

Global cognition, verbal memory, executive function, and word fluency declined faster over time in persons developing LOE than without LOE. Declines in cognition preceding LOE suggest these are linked; it will be important to investigate causes for midlife cognitive declines associated with LOE.
Photoplethysmography: A measure for the function of the autonomic nervous system in focal impaired awareness seizures
Authors: El Atrache Rima , Tamilia Eleonora , Mohammadpour Touserkani Fatemeh , Hammond Sarah , Papadelis Christos , Kapur Kush , Jackson Michele , Bucciarelli Bethany , Tsuboyama Melissa , Sarkis Rani A. , Loddenkemper Tobias
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Photoplethysmography (PPG) reflects variations of blood perfusion in tissues, which may signify seizure‐related autonomic changes. The aim of this study is to assess the variability of PPG signals and their value in detecting peri‐ictal changes in patients with focal impaired awareness seizures (FIASs).

Methods

PPG data were recorded using a wearable sensor placed on the wrist or ankle of children with epilepsy admitted for long‐term video‐electroencephalographic monitoring. We analyzed PPG data in four different periods: seizure‐free, preictal, ictal, and postictal. Multiple features were automatically extracted from the PPG signal—frequency, duration, amplitude, increasing and decreasing slopes, smoothness, and area under the curve (AUC)—and were used to identify preictal, ictal, or postictal changes by comparing them with seizure‐free periods and with each other using a linear mixed‐effects model.

Results

We studied PPG in 11 patients (18 FIASs), including seizure‐free, preictal, and postictal periods, and a subset of eight patients (12 FIASs) including the ictal period. Compared to the seizure‐free period, we found significant changes in PPG (1) during the ictal period across all features; (2) during the preictal period in amplitude, duration, increasing slope, and AUC; and (3) during the postictal period in decreasing slope.

Significance

Specific PPG changes can be seen before, during, and after FIASs. The peri‐ictal changes in the PPG features of patients with FIASs suggest potential applications of PPG monitoring for seizure detection.
Hypertonicity counteracts MCL‐1 and renders BCL‐XL a synthetic lethal target in head and neck cancer
Authors: Heimer Sina , Knoll Gertrud , Neubert Patrick , Hammer Karin P. , Wagner Stefan , Bauer Richard J. , Jantsch Jonathan , Ehrenschwender Martin
Published: July 2020

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive and difficult‐to‐treat cancer entity. Current therapies ultimately aim to activate the mitochondria‐controlled (intrinsic) apoptosis pathway, but complex alterations in intracellular signaling cascades and the extracellular microenvironment hamper treatment response. On the one hand, proteins of the BCL‐2 family set the threshold for cell death induction and prevent accidental cellular suicide. On the other hand, controlling a cell's readiness to die also determines whether malignant cells are sensitive or resistant to anticancer treatments. Here, we show that HNSCC cells upregulate the proapoptotic BH3‐only protein NOXA in response to hyperosmotic stress. Induction of NOXA is sufficient to counteract the antiapoptotic properties of MCL‐1 and switches HNSCC cells from dual BCL‐XL/MCL‐1 protection to exclusive BCL‐XL addiction. Hypertonicity‐induced functional loss of MCL‐1 renders BCL‐XL a synthetically lethal target in HNSCC, and inhibition of BCL‐XL efficiently kills HNSCC cells that poorly respond to conventional therapies. We identify hypertonicity‐induced upregulation of NOXA as link between osmotic pressure in the tumor environment and mitochondrial priming, which could perspectively be exploited to boost efficacy of anticancer drugs.
Rewiring coral: Anthropogenic nutrients shift diverse coral–symbiont nutrient and carbon interactions toward symbiotic algal dominance
Authors: Allgeier Jacob E. , Andskog Mona A. , Hensel Enie , Appaldo Richard , Layman Craig , Kemp Dustin W.
Published: July 2020

Improving coral reef conservation requires heightened understanding of the mechanisms by which coral cope with changing environmental conditions to maintain optimal health. We used a long‐term (10 month) in situ experiment with two phylogenetically diverse scleractinians (Acropora palmata and Porites porites) to test how coral–symbiotic algal interactions changed under real‐world conditions that were a priori expected to be beneficial (fish‐mediated nutrients) and to be harmful, but non‐lethal, for coral (fish + anthropogenic nutrients). Analyzing nine response variables of nutrient stoichiometry and stable isotopes per coral fragment, we found that nutrients from fish positively affected coral growth, and moderate doses of anthropogenic nutrients had no additional effects. While growing, coral maintained homeostasis in their nutrient pools, showing tolerance to the different nutrient regimes. Nonetheless, structural equation models revealed more nuanced relationships, showing that anthropogenic nutrients reduced the diversity of coral–symbiotic algal interactions and caused nutrient and carbon flow to be dominated by the symbiont. Our findings show that nutrient and carbon pathways are fundamentally “rewired” under anthropogenic nutrient regimes in ways that could increase corals’ susceptibility to further stressors. We hypothesize that our experiment captured coral in a previously unrecognized transition state between mutualism and antagonism. These findings highlight a notable parallel between how anthropogenic nutrients promote symbiont dominance with the holobiont, and how they promote macroalgal dominance at the coral reef scale. Our findings suggest more realistic experimental conditions, including studies across gradients of anthropogenic nutrient enrichment as well as the incorporation of varied nutrient and energy pathways, may facilitate conservation efforts to mitigate coral loss.
The association between number of teeth and physical function limitation among older adults in the USA
Authors: Chalittikul Warut , Kassim Saba , Sabbah Wael
Published: July 2020

Aim

To examine the association between the number of teeth and physical function limitation (PFL), as an indicator of frailty, among older adults in the USA.

Background

Physical function limitation is common among the elderly and potentially associated with oral health, particularly the number of extracted teeth.

Materials and Methods

Data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2014 (BRFSS, 2014), a cross‐sectional national interview survey of US population, were analyzed. The number of participating older adults aged 65 and over was 158 962. The association between PFL, outcome and number of extracted teeth, demographic data, socio‐economic status, smoking, general health, comorbidity conditions and body mass index (BMI) was assessed using logistic regression analyses.

Results

The prevalence of PFL was 28%. In the fully adjusted model, the number of extracted teeth had a significant association with PFL: edentulous older adults had higher odds for PFL, (odds ratio [OR]:1.36; 95%CI: 1.22, 1.52). Similarly, those who lost 6 teeth or more but not all were likely to have PFL (OR 1.35: 95% CI: 1.23, 1.48).

Conclusions

There was a significant association between the number of extracted teeth and PFL among US older adults aged 65 and more, based on the data from BRFSS 2014. The findings indicate that losing teeth may be a potential risk for PFL.
How do migrants’ processes of social embedding unfold over time?
Authors: Lubbers Miranda J. , Molina José Luis , Mccarty Christopher
Published: July 2020

In this article we investigate how migrants’ processes of social (dis‐) embedding in local and transnational contexts unfold over time and illustrate their driving forces. Drawing on unique longitudinal, mixed‐methods social network data of 77 transnational migrants in Barcelona, Spain, we were able to capture changes in social relationships at a micro‐level. We found that migrant embedding is far from a linear process. In many regards, the observed network dynamics are similar to those the literature observed for non‐migrants; for example, the more substantial changes were typically caused by life events. We also found that migrants’ opportunities to form new relationships with natives depended on their positions within their places of residence, which were structured by gender, race and class. These results call into question assumptions of individual agency in integration and assimilation debates. Furthermore, they call for a greater presence of temporality and life course scholarship in research into migrants’ networks.
Analyzing the spatial allocation of Japan’s aid to China: A perspective from the relations between aid allocation stakeholders
Authors: Shao Jing , Wang Maojun
Published: July 2020

While the spatial distribution of foreign aid has aroused a widespread academic interest, the existing research is limited mainly to the transnational level and lacks an analysis of aid allocation within a single recipient country. Moreover, more attention is paid to the factors influencing the aid allocation than to the interactions among different aid allocation stakeholders. To fill the research blank, this paper proposes a “three‐party relationship model” to analyze the spatial allocation of aid within a recipient county, and uses the case of Japan's aid to China to validate the model. We find most of the aid has been allocated to the economic infrastructure, over time, and the key aid sector has shifted from economic infrastructure to social infrastructure and general environmental protection; The allocation characteristics of total aid and key aid sectors are various; The spatial allocation pattern of aid reflects an interaction between the donor (Japan) and the recipient country (China). The degree of importance of each aid allocation stakeholder is different at different stages of the total life cycle of aid, and the aid allocation stakeholder relationship in the three‐party relationship model may be constantly reshaped during the allocation processes of aid in space.
Extra food provisioning reduces extra‐pair paternity in the lesser kestrel Falco naumanni
Authors: Costanzo Alessandra , Tommasi Nicola , Galimberti Andrea , Scesa Giorgia C. , Ambrosini Roberto , Griggio Matteo , Cecere Jacopo G. , Rubolini Diego
Published: July 2020

Female promiscuity can function to acquire both direct and indirect benefits from their social mate and extra‐pair males. In many raptor species, intense mate‐feeding significantly contributes to female energy requirements before and during egg laying. Moreover, females may use mate‐feeding effort to assess male quality. In this study of the lesser kestrel Falco naumanni, we aimed at experimentally manipulating the female's perception of mate quality by providing females with extra food during egg laying, and evaluated the occurrence of extra‐pair paternity in food‐supplemented and control broods by parentage analyses. No extra‐pair offspring (EPO) was found among 19 food‐supplemented broods, whereas EPO occurred in five out of 17 control broods. No significant differences in morphological traits, body condition and reproductive success were found between faithful and unfaithful females. However, clutches containing EPO were laid later in the breeding season. Moreover, un‐cuckolded males had longer tarsi than cuckolded ones, indicating larger body size. Hence, extra food provisioning and early breeding reduced the occurrence of EPO in lesser kestrels. In addition, we confirmed the occurrence of intraspecific brood parasitism, as five nestlings were not the offspring of the brooding female. The results of our food‐provisioning experiment support the idea that mate‐feeding ability is a reliable indicator of male quality, and are in accordance with the hypothesis that male mate‐feeding behaviour is a sexually selected trait.
Integrating light‐level geolocation with activity tracking reveals unexpected nocturnal migration patterns of the tawny pipit
Authors: Briedis Martins , Beran Václav , Adamík Peter , Hahn Steffen
Published: July 2020

Migratory birds complete their seasonal journeys between breeding and non‐breeding sites with a series of migratory flights that are separated by prolonged stopovers. While songbirds are the most common taxa among migratory birds, empirical data on flight and stopover behaviour along their entire migratory journeys are still rare. Here, we integrate activity and barometric pressure tracking with classical light‐level geolocation to describe migration behaviour of tawny pipits Anthus campestris breeding in central Europe. Surprisingly, tracked pipits used, on average, as many as 10 stopover sites during their six week, > 5000 km long autumn migration. This conforms to a typical hop‐type pattern of migration. In contrast to common knowledge which considers the tawny pipit as a typical diurnal migrant, our data revealed that more than two thirds of all migratory movements were carried out at night. Nocturnal departure times were highly variable within individuals and spread across the entire night while landing most often took place within the first few hours after sunrise. Consequently, there was a negative relationship between departure timing relative to sunset and flight duration. Short flights of up to 2 h were most common and median flight duration was 4.5 h. There was a hyperbolic relationship between flight duration and maximum flight altitude and flight altitudes during night were two times higher compared to daytime. The overall ratio of flight versus stopover duration during migration was on average 1:6.5. This closely matches predictions from theoretical models. We show that multi‐sensor tracking has the potential to provide unprecedented details on migratory behaviour of individual birds along their entire migratory journeys, and it also improves the precision of geographical locations derived from light‐level geolocators.
Use of distinct anti‐hypertensive drugs and risk for COVID‐19 among hypertensive people: A population‐based cohort study in Southern Catalonia, Spain
Authors: Vila‐Corcoles Angel , Satue‐Gracia Eva , Ochoa‐Gondar Olga , Torrente‐Fraga Cristina , Gomez‐Bertomeu Frederic , Vila‐Rovira Angel , Hospital‐Guardiola Imma , de Diego‐Cabanes Cinta , Bejarano‐Romero Ferran , Rovira‐Veciana Dolors , Basora‐Gallisa Josep
Published: July 2020

The use of some anti‐hypertensive drugs in the current COVID‐19 pandemic has become controversial. This study investigated possible relationships between anti‐hypertensive medications use and COVID‐19 infection risk in the ambulatory hypertensive population. This is a population‐based retrospective cohort study involving 34 936 hypertensive adults >50 years in Tarragona (Southern Catalonia, Spain) who were retrospectively followed through pandemic period (from 01/03/2020 to 30/04/2020). Two data sets including demographic/clinical characteristics (comorbidities and cardiovascular medications use) and laboratory PCR codes for COVID‐19 were linked to construct an anonymized research database. Cox regression was used to calculate multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) and estimate the risk of suffering COVID‐19 infection. Across study period, 205 PCR‐confirmed COVID‐19 cases were observed, which means an overall incidence of 586.8 cases per 100 000 persons‐period. In multivariable analyses, only age (HR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02‐1.05; P < .001) and nursing home residence (HR: 19.60; 95% CI: 13.80‐27.84; P < .001) appeared significantly associated with increased risk of COVID‐19. Considering anti‐hypertensive drugs, receiving diuretics (HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 0.90‐1.67; P = .205), calcium channel blockers (HR: 1.29; 95%CI: 0.91‐1.82; P = .148), beta‐blockers (HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.68‐1.37; P = .844), and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (HR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.61‐1.13; P = .238) did not significantly alter the risk of PCR‐confirmed COVID‐19, whereas receiving angiotensin II receptor blockers was associated with an almost statistically significant reduction risk (HR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.44‐1.01; P = .054). In conclusion, our data support that receiving renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors does not predispose for suffering COVID‐19 infection in ambulatory hypertensive people. Conversely, receiving angiotensin II receptor blockers could be related with a reduced risk.
Lin28a up‐regulation is associated with the formation of restenosis via promoting proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Zou Zhiwei , Zhou Xiaojun , Zhang Ruzhen , Zhang Qian , Jiang Shan , Xu Chunmei , Zhang Rui , Xie Tianyue , Zhu Huangao , Gong Piyun , Zhang Dongmei , Ma Huimei , Liao Lin , Dong Jianjun
Published: July 2020

To explore the potential role of Lin28a in the development of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, double‐balloon injury surgery and mono‐balloon injury surgery were used to establish restenosis and atherosclerosis models, respectively, so as to better distinguish restenosis from atherosclerotic lesions. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that significantly higher expression of Lin28a was observed in the iliac arteries of restenosis plaques than that of atherosclerosis plaques. Immunofluorescence studies showed the colocalization of Lin28a with α‐smooth muscle actin in restenosis plaques, rather than in atherosclerosis plaques, which suggested that Lin28a might be related to the unique behaviour of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in restenosis. To further confirm above hypothesis, Lin28a expression was up‐regulated by transfection of Lenti‐Lin28a and inhibited by Lenti‐Lin28a‐shRNA transfection in cultured VSMCs, and then the proliferation and migration capability of VSMCs were detected by EdU and Transwell assays, respectively. Results showed that the proliferation and migration of VSMCs were significantly increased in accordance with the up‐regulation of Lin28a expression, while above behaviours of VSMCs were significantly suppressed after inhibiting the expression of Lin28a. In conclusion, the up‐regulation of Lin28a exerts its modulatory effect on VSMCs’ proliferation and migration, which may play a critical role in contributing to pathological formation of restenosis.
Functional dyspepsia in children: A study of pathophysiological factors
Authors: Shava Upender , Srivastava Anshu , Mathias Amrita , Kumar Narvesh , Yachha Surender Kumar , Gambhir Sanjay , Poddar Ujjal
Published: July 2020

Background and Aim

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is common in children, and treatment targeted towards the altered pathophysiology can improve outcome. We evaluated FD children for abnormality of gastric accommodation and emptying, psychological stressors (PS), Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection, and post‐infectious FD.

Methods

Diagnosis of FD was based on ROME III criteria. Clinical evaluation including dyspeptic symptom scoring and assessment for PS was performed. Satiety drink test for gastric accommodation, gastroscopy with biopsy for HP infection, and solid meal gastric emptying were performed. Sixty‐seven healthy children were enrolled for assessing PS and satiety drink test.

Results

Fifty‐five FD children (33 boys, age 12 [6–18] years) with symptoms for 4 (2–48) months and dyspeptic score of 5 (1–13) were enrolled. PS were more common in FD than in controls (46/55 vs 9/67; P < 0.001). Median satiety drink volume was 360 mL (180–1320 mL); no patients had satiety drink volume of < 5th centile of healthy children. The frequency (98% vs 85%; P = 0.01) and severity (65 [10–175] vs 50 [5–130]; P < 0.001) of postprandial symptoms were higher in FD than in controls. Of the postprandial symptoms, pain (20.3% vs 0%; P = 0.000) was present only in FD. Delayed gastric emptying was present in 6.5%, HP infection in 11%, and post‐infectious FD in 13% cases. Etiological factor was identified in 87% children, with 20% having multiple factors.

Conclusions

Abnormality of gastric sensorimotor function is seen in one‐fourth of FD cases. HP infection and post‐infectious FD are present in 11% and 13% cases, respectively.
Rate, reasons, predictors, and burden of readmissions after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement
Authors: Khan Ahmad , Maheshwari Sanjay , Gupta Kamesh , Naseem Khadija , Chowdry Monica , Singh Shailendra
Published: July 2020

Background and Aim

Nationwide data on readmissions after the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure are lacking. We aimed to investigate the 30‐day readmission rate after TIPS procedure, reasons, and predictors for readmissions and its impact on resource utilization and mortality in the USA.

Methods

We identified all adults who underwent an inpatient TIPS procedure between 2010 and 2014 using the National Readmission Database. Outcomes included all‐cause 30‐day readmission rate, reasons and predictors of readmissions, mortality rate, and mean hospitalization charges.

Results

Out of a total of 31 230 hospitalizations with TIPS procedure, 28 021 patients met the study criteria and were finally included. The mean age of patients was 56.90 years, and 63.84% were men. All‐cause 30‐day readmission rate was 27.81%. Hepatic encephalopathy with or without coma was the most common reason for readmissions in at least 36.43% patients. The in‐hospital mortality for index hospitalization and 30‐day readmission was 10.69% and 5.85%, respectively. The mean hospitalization charges for index hospitalization and readmissions were $153 357 and $45 751, respectively. Advanced age, Medicaid insurance, higher Charlson comorbidy index, ascites as indication of TIPS, and nonspecific or hepatitis C cirrhosis etiologies for cirrhosis were found to be independent predictors of 30‐day readmissions after a TIPS procedure.

Conclusions

Our study found a high rate of readmission for patients undergoing TIPS procedure, and the majority of these readmissions were related to hepatic encephalopathy. Further studies highlighting areas for improvement, particularly for patient selection and post‐discharge care, are needed to reduce readmissions.