bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Miocene Paleoaltitude of the Tuotuohe Basin, Central‐Northern Tibetan Plateau and its Tectonic Implications
Authors: LI Leyi , CHANG Hong , GUAN Chong , LIU Weiguo , CAO Yunning
Published: October 2019

Reconstruction of the paleoaltitude history of the Tibetan Plateau is critical for understanding the linkage between tectonics and its effect on regional and global climate change. Presently, most of the paleoaltitude studies are concentrated on the southern and southeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau, and few studies have been conducted in the central‐northern part. In this paper we focused on the Wudaoliang Formation in the Tuotuohe Basin, central to northern Tibetan Plateau, to reconstruct paleoaltitude based on carbonate oxygen isotopes. The carbonate samples are primary or have experienced an early stage of digenesis. Based on the thermodynamic and empirical model results, the paleoaltitude of the Wudaoliang Formation is found to be around 2700–3260 m (average of 2980 ± 280 m) in the early Miocene (∼24 Ma). Integrating paleoaltitude results from Wudaoliang Basin and our results, we conclude that crustal shortening and tectonic activity were strong during the late Eocene to late Oligocene‐early Miocene and relatively weak during the early Miocene in the central‐northern Tibetan Plateau.
Geochemical Characteristic of Charnockites in North Margin of North China Craton: Indicating the Significiant of the Neoarchean Tecnotic Event
Authors: SHI Qiang , FENG Fan , XU Zhongyuan , LIU Zhenghong , DONG Xiaojie , LI Gang
Published: October 2019

The Neoarchean charnockites of North margain of North China Craton (NCC) has become a hot topic into understanding the Early Precambrian basement. Although there is a broad consensus that charnockite is usually related to granulite facies metamorphism, whether its petrogenesis and tectonics characteristics remains controversial. Inclusions within hypersthene and garnet in charnockite are used to identify the peak granulite facies mineral assemblage, with the formation of Magnesian–charnockite attributed to anatexis of the protolith associated with this granulite facies metamorphism. The distribution of major and trace elements in charnockite is very uneven, significant depleted in LILEs (eg. Cs, U, Th) and HFSEs (eg. Nb, Ta, P and Ti), riched in Sr. Raising to the coexistence of Eu–enrichment and Eu–depletion type of REE patterns that influenced by the content of plagioclase and the remnants minerals of zircon and apatite. Comparative the petrography, geochemistry and geochronology data of Magnesian–charnockite indicate that the ratios of mafic pellites and basalts involved in anatectic melting are different by the upwelling of mantle magma, also resulting in the Eu anormals characteristics. The formation of the Magnesian–charnockite is closely connected with the subduction of the NCC oceanic crust (About ∼2.5 Ga). However, Ferroan–charnockite may be the formed by the crystallization differentiation of the upwelling of mantle–derived shoshonitic magma (About ∼2.45 Ga), with the lower crust material addition.
Transpulmonary driving pressure during mechanical ventilation–validation of a non‐invasive measurement method
Authors: Gudmundsson Magni , Persson Per , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Lundin Stefan , Rylander Christian
Published: October 2019

Background

Transpulmonary driving pressure plays an important role in today's understanding of ventilator induced lung injury. We have previously validated a novel non‐invasive method based on stepwise increments of PEEP to assess transpulmonary driving pressure in anaesthetised patients with healthy lungs. The aim of this study was to validate the method in patients who were mechanically ventilated for different diagnoses requiring intensive care.

Methods

We measured transpulmonary pressure (Ptp) and calculated transpulmonary driving pressure (ΔPtp) in 31 patients undergoing mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit. Parallel triplicate measurements were performed with the PEEP step method (PtpPSM) and the conventional oesophageal balloon method (Ptpconv). Their agreement was compared using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Bland Altman plot.

Result

The coefficient of variation for the repeated measurements was 4,3 for ΔPtpPSM and 9,2 for ΔPtpconv. The ICC of 0,864 and the Bland Altman plot indicate good agreement between the two methods.

Conclusion

The non‐invasive method can be applied in mechanically ventilated patients to measure transpulmonary driving pressure with good repeatability and accuracy comparable to the traditional oesophageal balloon method.
Social Interaction With an Alcohol‐Intoxicated or Cocaine‐Injected Peer Selectively Alters Social Behaviors and Drinking in Adolescent Male and Female Rats
Authors: Gamble Danielle N. , Josefson Chloe C. , Hennessey Mary K. , Davis Ashley M. , Waters Renee C. , Jones Brooke N. , Belton Destiny M. , Hall Nzia I. , Costen Taylor J. , Kirstein Cheryl L. , Maldonado‐Devincci Antoniette M.
Published: October 2019

Background

Drinking alcohol is facilitated by social interactions with peers, especially during adolescence. The importance of peer social influences during adolescence on alcohol and substance use has recently received more attention. We have shown that social interaction with an alcohol‐intoxicated peer influences adolescent alcohol drinking differently in male and female rats using the demonstrator–observer paradigm. The present set of experiments analyzed the social interaction session to determine changes in social behaviors and subsequent alcohol drinking in adolescent male and female rats.

Methods

Specifically, in Experiment 1, we determined whether specific social behaviors were altered during interaction with an alcohol‐intoxicated demonstrator administered 1.5 g/kg ethanol (EtOH) and assessed changes in EtOH intake in adolescent observers. Experiment 2 examined changes in voluntary saccharin consumption to determine whether social interaction with an alcohol‐intoxicated demonstrator administered 1.5 g/kg EtOH altered consumption of a palatable solution. In Experiment 3, we administered saline, and a low (5 mg/kg) or high (20 mg/kg) dose of cocaine to the demonstrator and assessed changes in the adolescent observers to determine whether social interaction with a “drugged” peer altered social behaviors and voluntary EtOH intake.

Results

We showed that social interaction with an alcohol‐intoxicated demonstrator administered 1.5 g/kg EtOH (i) decreased social play and increased social investigation and social contact in adolescent male and female observers, (ii) did not alter nonsocial behaviors, (iii) did not alter saccharin consumption, and (iv) increased voluntary EtOH intake in adolescent female but not male observers. When the peer was injected with cocaine, (i) social play was dose‐dependently decreased, (ii) there were no changes in other social or nonsocial behaviors, and (iii) voluntary EtOH intake in adolescent male and female observers was unaffected.

Conclusions

The present results are consistent and extend our previous work, showing that social interaction with an alcohol‐intoxicated peer selectively alters social behaviors and alcohol drinking in adolescent rats. Females appear to be more sensitive to the elevating effects of social interaction on voluntary EtOH consumption.
Maternal soluble PD‐1 levels are significantly increased in women with preeclampsia
Authors: Gu Yang , Morgan John , Lewis David F. , Cooper Danielle B. , McCathran Charles E. , Wang Yuping
Published: October 2019

Problem

Programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) and its ligand (PD‐L1) have emerged as key players in regulating immune tolerance. Preeclampsia is associated with maladaptation of immune tolerance during pregnancy. This study aimed to determine if maternal soluble PD‐1 (sPD‐1) and soluble PD‐L1 (sPD‐L1) levels are altered in preeclampsia.

Method of study

Maternal sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels were measured by ELISA in 172 pregnant women (86 normotensive and 86 preeclampsia). The differences in sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels between normotensive and preeclamptic pregnant women, <34 vs >34 weeks, and fetal gender differences were assessed. Data were analyzed by unpaired t test or chi‐square. A probability level of <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Maternal sPD‐1 levels were significantly higher in preeclamptic than in normotensive pregnant women, 6262 ± 1860 vs 1134 ± 349 pg/mL, P < .01. sPD‐1 levels were not statistically different between <34 and >34 weeks of gestation in both normotensive and preeclamptic groups. sPD‐1 levels were relatively higher in mothers with female fetus than with male fetus in the preeclamptic group: 8104 ± 3054 vs 3802 ± 2177 pg/mL, but relatively lower in mothers with female fetus than with male fetus in the normotensive group: 425 ± 134 vs 625 ± 182 pg/mL. Maternal sPD‐L1 levels were relatively higher in preeclamptic than in normotensive pregnant women: 143 ± 52 vs 69 ± 13 pg/mL.

Conclusion

Aberrant sPD‐1/sPD‐L1 signaling is present in preeclampsia. Whether increased maternal sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels were associated with fetal gender difference or immune tolerance dissimilarity during pregnancy in women with preeclampsia warrants further investigation.
Utilisation of a NSW teratology information service by pharmacists and patients referred by a pharmacist from 2000 to 2018
Authors: Ritchie Helen Elizabeth , Saini Bandana , Twigg Michael J. , Kennedy Debra
Published: October 2019

Background

MotherSafe is a free telephone counselling service for exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As the last health professional seen prior to consumption of medicines, community pharmacists’ opinions on the use of medications in pregnancy/breastfeeding is likely to be particularly sought by women presenting in pharmacies. However, a recent qualitative study revealed that community pharmacists feel unsupported in their role as medicine information providers to pregnant/breastfeeding women.

Aim

The aim of the current study was to undertake a descriptive analysis of calls made by pharmacists or pharmacist‐referred patients to MotherSafe across the time period 2000–2018.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted of call data from January 2000 to December 2018. Aggregate data were examined by type of caller, reason for call, pregnancy category and exposure type.

Results

Most calls (57%) related to pregnancy or breastfeeding (39%) with calls equally distributed throughout gestation. Calls regarding potential pregnancy exposures to uncategorised drugs were the most frequent (mainly complementary medicines). Unlike pharmacists, calls from pregnant consumers referred by pharmacists were also frequently regarding category A drugs.

Conclusions

This study highlights the need for reliable evidence‐based information sources regarding the use of prescribed medications, over‐the‐counter and complementary preparations during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There is a need for better education of pharmacists about appropriate information sources and the need to use evidence‐based resources other than the A‐X categories to advise their clients about the safety or otherwise of medications in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The effect of melatonin on ultrasound markers of follicular development: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomised trial
Authors: Fernando Shavi , Wallace Euan Morrison , Rombauts Luk , White Nikki , Hong Jennifer , Vollenhoven Beverley , Lolatgis Nicholas , Hope Nicole , Wong Melissa , Lawrence Mark , Lawrence Anthony , Russell Chris , Leong Kenneth , Thomas Philip , da Silva Costa Fabricio
Published: October 2019

Background

Melatonin is a potent oxygen scavenger and is capable of altering blood flow in various vascular beds.

Aims

We aimed to determine the effect of melatonin on ovarian vascular indices during ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Materials and Methods

This is a pilot double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomised trial. Sixty‐nine women (mean age 35.8 ± 4.3 years) undergoing their first cycle of IVF were randomised to receive either placebo, 2, 4 or 8 mg of melatonin, twice a day. Each participant underwent a transvaginal ultrasound at days 6–10 assessing follicular number and size. The vascularisation index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularisation‐flow index (VFI) were measured. These indices were then correlated with embryological outcomes. Informed consent was obtained from participants. This trial was registered with the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12613001317785).

Results

The number of follicles did not differ between groups (P = 0.4). There were no differences in the VI (P = 0.4), FI (P = 0.1) or VFI (P = 0.3) in the right ovary or the FI (P = 0.3) or VFI (P = 0.3) in the left ovary between groups. When comparing placebo to any dose of melatonin, there were no differences in any measured parameter. While there was correlation between the number of follicles on ultrasound and all measured embryological outcomes, there was no correlation between ovarian vascular indices and these important clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Melatonin does not appear to change ovarian vascular indices during ovarian stimulation. In addition, such vascular indices cannot predict the number or quality of oocytes or embryos obtained in an IVF cycle. These findings require confirmation in future larger studies.
Analgesic benefits and clinical role of the posterior suprascapular nerve block in shoulder surgery: a systematic review, meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Cho N. , Kang R. S. , McCartney C. J. L. , Pawa A. , Costache I. , Rose P. , Abdallah F. W.
Published: October 2019

The posterior suprascapular nerve block has been proposed as an analgesic alternative for shoulder surgery based on the publication of several comparisons with interscalene block that failed to detect differences in analgesic outcomes. However, quantification of the absolute treatment effect of suprascapular nerve block on its own, in comparison with no block (control), to corroborate the aforementioned conclusions has been lacking. This study examines the absolute analgesic efficacy of suprascapular nerve block compared with control for shoulder surgery. We systematically sought electronic databases for studies comparing suprascapular nerve block with control. The primary outcomes included postoperative 24‐h cumulative oral morphine consumption and the difference in area under the curve for 24‐h pooled pain scores. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of opioid‐related side‐effects (postoperative nausea and vomiting) and patient satisfaction. Data were pooled using random‐effects modelling. Ten studies (700 patients) were analysed; all studies examined landmark‐guided posterior suprascapular nerve block performed in the suprascapular fossa. Suprascapular nerve block was statistically but not clinically superior to control for postoperative 24‐h cumulative oral morphine consumption, with a weighted mean difference (99%CI) of 11.41 mg (−21.28 to −1.54; p = 0.003). Suprascapular nerve block was also statistically but not clinically superior to control for area under the curve of pain scores, with a mean difference of 1.01 cm.h. Nonetheless, suprascapular nerve block reduced the odds of postoperative nausea and vomiting and improved patient satisfaction. This review suggests that the landmark‐guided posterior suprascapular nerve block does not provide clinically important analgesic benefits for shoulder surgery. Investigation of other interscalene block alternatives is warranted.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: automated low‐flow ascites pump therapy for refractory ascites
Authors: Lepida Antonia , Marot Astrid , Trépo Eric , Degré Delphine , Moreno Christophe , Deltenre Pierre
Published: October 2019

Background

Few effective treatments are available for patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites. New treatment modalities are needed for these patients.

Aim

To synthesise the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of automated low‐flow ascites pump therapy in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for trials evaluating automated low‐flow ascites pump therapy in patients with refractory ascites.

Results

Nine studies were included. Eight were case series, one was a randomised controlled trial. Pooled estimate rates were 0.62 (95% CI = 0.49‐0.74) for the absence of requirement of large volume paracentesis (LVP) after pump insertion, 0.30 (95% CI = 0.17‐0.47) for acute kidney injury, 0.27 (95% CI = 0.13‐0.49) for bacterial peritonitis and 0.20 (95% CI = 0.09‐0.37) for urinary tract infection. There was high heterogeneity between studies which was often reduced or eliminated in sensitivity analyses by excluding studies of patients with a mean or median model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score > 15. Results of sensitivity analyses were similar to those of overall analyses. Mean increase in serum creatinine level after pump insertion was 23 µmol/L (95% CI = 10‐35) with no heterogeneity between studies. The pooled estimate rate for pump‐related side effects was 0.77 (95% CI = 0.64‐0.87) with low heterogeneity between studies.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis demonstrates that most patients treated with automated low‐flow ascites pump therapy do not require LVP after pump insertion. Acute kidney injury occurs in 30% of patients and creatinine levels increase by a mean of 23 µmol/L after pump insertion. Bacterial peritonitis and urinary tract infection occur in 27% and 20% of patients respectively.
Standardising the interpretation of liver biopsies in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease clinical trials
Authors: Pai Rish K. , Kleiner David E. , Hart John , Adeyi Oyedele A. , Clouston Andrew D. , Behling Cynthia A. , Jain Dhanpat , Kakar Sanjay , Brahmania Mayur , Burgart Lawrence , Batts Kenneth P. , Valasek Mark A. , Torbenson Michael S. , Guindi Maha , Wang Hanlin L. , Ajmera Veeral , Adams Leon A. , Parker Claire E. , Feagan Brian G. , Loomba Rohit , Jairath Vipul
Published: October 2019

Background

There is substantial variation in how histologic definitions and scoring systems of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are operationalised.

Aim

To develop a consensus‐based framework for standardising histologic assessment of liver biopsies in clinical trials of NAFLD.

Methods

An expert panel of 14 liver pathologists and three hepatologists was assembled. Using modified RAND/University of California Los Angeles appropriateness methodology, 130 items derived from literature review and expert opinion were rated by each panel member on a 1‐9 scale. Disagreement was defined as ≥5 ratings in the lowest (1‐3) and highest (7‐9) categories. Items were classified as inappropriate (median 1‐3.5 without disagreement), uncertain (median 3.5‐6.5 or any median with disagreement) or appropriate (median 6.5‐9 without disagreement). Survey results were discussed as a group before voting.

Results

Current measures of disease activity and fibrosis may not fully capture important features of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Alternative methods to evaluate ballooning degeneration are needed. Panellists were uncertain whether portal inflammation, degree of steatosis and Mallory‐Denk bodies are important measures of disease activity. Furthermore, it was felt that current staging systems do not capture the full spectrum of fibrosis in NASH. A consensus definition and sub‐stages for bridging fibrosis are needed. The severity of perisinusoidal fibrosis should be captured at all stages. Lastly, a method to evaluate features of fibrosis regression should be developed.

Conclusion

The operating properties of the modifications proposed should be evaluated prospectively to determine reliability and responsiveness.
Data reduction prior to inference: Are there consequences of comparing groups using a t‐test based on principal component scores?
Authors: Bedrick Edward J.
Published: October 2019

Researchers often use a two‐step process to analyze multivariate data. First, dimensionality is reduced using a technique such as principal component analysis, followed by a group comparison using a ‐test or analysis of variance. Although this practice is often discouraged, the statistical properties of this procedure are not well understood, starting with the hypothesis being tested. We suggest that this approach might be considering two distinct hypotheses, one of which is a global test of no differences in the mean vectors, and the other being a focused test of a specific linear combination where the coefficients have been estimated from the data. We study the asymptotic properties of the two‐sample ‐statistic for these two scenarios, assuming a nonsparse setting. We show that the size of the global test agrees with the presumed level but that the test has poor power. In contrast, the size of the focused test can be arbitrarily distorted with certain mean and covariance structures. A simple method is provided to correct the size of the focused test. Data analyses and simulations are used to illustrate the results. Recommendations on the use of this two‐step method and the related use of principal components for prediction are provided.
Exploring the use and quality of Internet discussion forums in pregnancy: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Ellis Leila , Roberts Lesley
Published: October 2019

Background

The Internet is widely used as a source of health information to assist decision making in pregnancy. Concerningly, the quality of information shared on online pregnancy forums is unclear. Our objectives were to explore online pregnancy forum health‐related use and evaluate quality of information shared.

Methods

This retrospective qualitative study had two phases of data collection and analysis. First, thematic analysis of a representative sample (n = 480) of posts explored motivators for forum use. Second, a subgroup (n = 153) of threads with clinical content was assessed for congruence with reputable sources.

Results

Common motivators for forum engagement were a desire for lived experience, unlimited access, and the opportunity to express emotions. Of 1098 responses sharing advice, information, or experience, 601 (54.7%) were accurate; 230 (20.9%) were erroneous, incomplete, or misleading; and 267 (24.3%) lacked credible evidence. Of these, 60 (5.5%) were potentially harmful. Responses often directed women to a health care practitioner, but concerningly, failed to refer ten women in need of urgent medical assessment. Few discussions were self‐regulating, with only 12 of 230 (5.2%) poor‐quality messages subsequently rectified.

Conclusions

Exchange of information and emotional support among peers are key functions of online pregnancy forums. There is a modest prevalence of poor‐quality or potentially harmful information but more concerningly a lack of peer moderation. We suggest health care practitioners ensure pregnant women have a clear understanding of when clinical consultation is required. Clinicians may wish to discuss the supportive community aspects of online forums in cases where offline support is lacking.
Urban Heat: Rising Temperatures as Critique in India's Air‐Conditioned City
Authors: Frazier Camille
Published: October 2019

Bengaluru's clement weather has long been a defining factor of the urban imaginary, earning it the title of India's naturally “air‐conditioned city.” Over the past three decades, escalating temperatures have changed the urban climate and challenged this understanding of the city. The “rising temperatures narrative” has become a common form of lament among native and long‐term middle‐class residents of Bengaluru (Bangalore). This narrative links hotter temperatures with the past three decades of rapid urbanization to critique uncontrolled urban growth and associated changes in the urban ecology. In telling a story about the effects of urbanization on local weather patterns, the rising temperatures narrative refuses the spatial and temporal effects of global climate change in favor of more locally and politically salient attributions. Yet the critique that this narrative generates is anchored in class‐specific experiences and historical relationships to the city. In its nostalgic descriptions of the city that came before, the rising temperatures narrative draws a line of distinction between “old” and “new” middle‐class residents of Bengaluru. The rising temperatures narrative thus exposes the ambiguities and complexities of middle‐class life in the rapidly developing city.
Use of standardized methods to improve extinction‐risk classification
Authors: Mothes Caitlin C. , Clements Stephanie L. , Hewavithana Dishane K. , Howell Hunter J. , David Aaron S. , Leventhal Nicole D. , Searcy Christopher A.
Published: October 2019

Standardized classification methods based on quantifiable risk metrics are critical for evaluating extinction threats because they increase objectivity, consistency, and transparency of listing decisions. Yet, in the United States, neither federal nor state agencies use standardized methods for listing species for legal protection, which could put listing decisions at odds with the magnitude of the risk. We used a recently developed set of quantitative risk metrics for California herpetofauna as a case study to highlight discrepancies in listing decisions made without standardized methods. We also combined such quantitative metrics with classification tree analysis to attempt to increase the transparency of previous listing decisions by identifying the criteria that had inherently been given the most weight. Federally listed herpetofauna in California scored significantly higher on the risk‐metric spectrum than those not federally listed, whereas state‐listed species did not score any higher than species that were not state listed. Based on classification trees, state endemism was the most important predictor of listing status at the state level and distribution trend (decline in a species’ range size) and population trend (decline in a species’ abundance at localized sites) were the most important predictors at the federal level. Our results emphasize the need for governing bodies to adopt standardized methods for assessing conservation risk that are based on quantitative criteria. Such methods allow decision makers to identify criteria inherently given the most weight in determining listing status, thus increasing the transparency of previous listing decisions, and produce an unbiased comparison of conservation threat across all species to promote consistency, efficiency, and effectiveness of the listing process.
Sufficient hepatic artery flow compensates for poor portal vein flow after liver transplantation in patients with portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Sasaki Kazunari , McVey John C. , Firl Daniel J. , Andreatos Nikolaos , Moro Amika , Coromina Hernandez Laia , Matsushima Hajime , Teresa Diago Uso , Fujiki Masato , Aucejo Federico N. , Quintini Cristiano , Kwon Choon‐Hyuck D. , Eghtesad Bijan , Miller Charles M. , Hashimoto Koji
Published: October 2019

Objective

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) does not preclude liver transplantation (LT), but poor portal vein (PV) flow after LT remains a predictor of poor outcomes. Given the physiologic tendency of the hepatic artery (HA) to compensate for low PV flow via vasodilation, we investigated whether adequate HA flow would have a favorable prognostic impact among patients with low PV flow following LT.

Methods

This study included 163 patients with PVT who underwent LT between 2004 and 2015. PV and HA flow were categorized into quartiles, and their association with 1‐year graft survival (GS) and biliary complication rates was assessed. For both the HA and the PV, patients at the lowest two quartiles were categorized as having low flow and the remainder as having high flow.

Results

The median MELD score was 22 and 1‐year GS was 87.3%. As expected, GS paralleled PV flow with patients at the lowest flow quartile faring the worst. In combination of PV and HA flows, high HA flow was associated with improved 1‐year GS among patients with low PV flow (P = .03). Similar findings were observed with respect to biliary complication rates.

Conclusions

Sufficient HA flow may compensate for poor PV flow. Consequently, meticulous HA reconstruction may be central to achieving optimal outcomes in PVT cases.
Shared reproduction and sex ratio adjustment to clutch size in a socially polymorphic orchid bee
Authors: Friedel Anna , Lattorff H. Michael G. , Quezada‐Euán José Javier G. , Boff Samuel
Published: October 2019

Nests of the primitively eusocial orchid beeEuglossa viridissimaare generally founded by a solitary female but can be reactivated by female offspring, in the presence or absence of the mother. The population therefore exists of solitary and social nests that co‐occur in an area. A female can stay as a subordinate helper under a dominant female or disperse to become a solitary foundress. Yet, the costs and benefits of the different social phenotypes are so far little understood. Here, we compared solitary and social nests of orchid bees. We used offspring of solitary and social nests to calculate offspring sex ratio, and applied molecular markers to calculate intranidal relatedness, infer maternity and test whether sociality may have a genetic component. We found that social nests had on average more brood than solitary nests. The overall sex ratio in the population did not differ from 1:1. However, social nests tended to produce a split sex ratio with some nests producing mainly males and others mainly female offspring. Regardless of social phenotype, the number of offspring was correlated with the sex ratio, with smaller nests having a more female‐biased offspring. In social nests, not all offspring resulted from a single‐mated mother, which was also the case for some solitary nests. This suggests shared reproduction in social nests and may be an indication that intraspecific parasitism and nest takeover are not uncommon. Structure analyses did not reveal different genetic background of the two social phenotypes. Our results suggest that there is no clear benefit that favours one of the two social phenotypes over the other and that the population is kept at balance in terms of sex ratio.
A Descriptive Study of Low‐Income Never‐Married Fathers' Coparenting With Mothers and Relatives
Authors: Fagan Jay , Pearson Jessica , Kaufman Rebecca
Published: October 2019

Objective

This study was designed to examine low‐income, never‐married fathers' perceptions of their coparenting relationships with mothers and relatives.

Background

Many low‐income, never‐married fathers have more than one child, and often these children were born to more than one mother. Despite the growing body of research on multipartnered fertility, few studies have examined fathers' coparenting relationships with more than one of their children's mothers. In this study, we examine associations between fathers' coparenting relationships and the number of biological mothers, race or ethnicity, and fathers' challenges.

Method

A convenience sample of 487 never‐married, low‐income fathers who had at least one child with whom they did not reside were recruited via numerous fatherhood programs and places in the community where fathers frequently congregate and completed a face‐to‐face survey of closed‐ended items administered by a trained interviewer.

Results

Fathers did not coparent with all of their children's mothers, and they reported having more coparenting relatives than coparenting mothers. Fathers' coparenting contact and cooperation with relatives was more common among African American and Hispanic fathers than non‐Hispanic White fathers. Fathers who reported no coparenting mothers had more biological children than fathers with one coparenting partner, and their interpersonal and financial challenges were associated with less coparenting involvement.

Conclusion

Understanding the complex coparenting arrangements of fathers with all of their children's mothers and relatives will provide a better understanding of family systems in low‐income communities with high rates of nonmarital parenting and multipartnered fertility. This includes understanding how these coparenting relationships are associated with fathers' personal challenges, race/ethnicity, and number of biological children.

Implications

Social service programs would benefit from assessing coparenting relationships more broadly rather than focusing only on singular father–mother coparenting relationships.
Parental Naming Practices in Same‐Sex Adoptive Families
Authors: Frank Emma L. , Manley Melissa H. , Goldberg Abbie E.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To explore the ways in which same‐sex adoptive parents navigate the process of determining what terms their children will use to address them (i.e., parent names).

Background

Parent names are markers of familial relationships and identity. Different‐sex parents are linguistically privileged in that their parent names are widely recognizable, easily distinguishable between each parent, and usually assigned by default as opposed to chosen, whereas parents in same‐sex couples must go through a deliberate process of choosing parent names. Little is known about the naming process for same‐sex parents.

Method

This qualitative analysis was designed to explore 40 same‐sex adoptive parent couples' approaches to parent naming (20 gay couples, 20 lesbian couples).

Results

Most couples collaboratively selected parallel names (e.g., “Daddy” and “Papa”). Participants drew on traditional mother and father derivatives, as well as their cultural backgrounds and naming trends within queer family communities. Families who adopted older children navigated unique issues.

Conclusion

This study adds to the literatures on same‐sex parenting, adoptive parenting, and naming. Families highlighted the perceived importance of parallel names and collaborative naming processes; the consideration of cultural backgrounds and other same‐sex parent families in naming; and naming challenges related to child age, the gender binary, and stigma.

Implications

Results shed light on various sources and considerations that may shape parent naming, which can inform the work of therapists and other providers who work with same‐sex parent families, particularly during the transition to parenthood.
Response to the Editor: Assessing the robustness of communities and ecosystems in global change research
Authors: Muller Ludo A. H. , Ballhausen Max‐Bernhard , Lakovic Milica , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: October 2019

This article is a response to Korell et al., 26, 325–327; See also the Commentary on this article by De Boeck et al., 26, e6–e7; See also the response to this Letter to the Editor by Korell et al., 26, 328–329.
Severe postpartum haemorrhage as first presenting symptom of an inherited bleeding disorder
Authors: Veen Caroline S. B. , van der Reijken Irene S. , Jansen A. J. Gerard , Schipaanboord Celesta W. A. , Visser Willy , de Maat Moniek P. M. , Leebeek Frank W. G. , Duvekot Johannes J. , Kruip Marieke J. H. A.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the major cause of maternal death worldwide. Haemostatic abnormalities are independently associated with a significantly increased risk for severe PPH. In this study, the value of haemostatic evaluation in women with severe PPH was explored.

Aim

To investigate the occurrence of previously unknown inherited bleeding disorders in women with severe PPH.

Methods

Women with severe PPH (blood loss of ≥2000 mL) between 2011 and 2017, referred to the haematology outpatient clinic for haemostatic evaluation, were retrospectively included. A bleeding disorder was diagnosed based on (inter)national guidelines, or when having a clear bleeding phenotype, not fulfilling any diagnostic criteria or laboratory abnormalities, this being classified as Bleeding of Unknown Cause (BUC). Logistic regression was used to model the association between diagnosis and obstetrical causes and risk factors for PPH.

Results

In total, 85 women with PPH were included. In 23% (n = 16), a mild bleeding disorder was diagnosed, including low von Willebrand factor (Low VWF 8/16), platelet function disorders (PFD 5/16), BUC (2/16) and von Willebrand disease type 1 (1/16). No significant associations were found between obstetrical causes or risk factors for PPH and the presence of a bleeding disorder.

Conclusion

In 23% of women with severe PPH, a mild bleeding disorder was diagnosed, independent of obstetrical causes or risk factors for PPH. This implies that severe PPH can be the first clinical symptom of an inherited bleeding disorder. Therefore, to optimize clinical management, haemostatic evaluation after severe PPH is recommended.
Share the Burden or Pass it on?
Authors: Rudolf Markus
Published: October 2019

There are numerous explanations for why Tanzania withdrew from theCRRF(Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework). Being aware that the decision was the sum of multiple coinciding factors the article argues that the decisive features were, firstly, a failed dialogue about the basis and the goals ofCRRFbetween the Tanzanian government and theUN(United Nations); secondly, a disillusion on the Tanzanian side related to the history of international cooperation on refugee issues; and thirdly, a perceived contradiction between the goals of theCRRFand domestic policies, specifically in relation to the agenda of national sovereignty propagated by the incumbent Tanzanian government. Numerous publications on the New York declaration, theCRRF, and theGCR(Global Compact on Refugees) have portrayed the evolution of ideas, principles, and political compromises in question. Yet few analyses highlight which core messages were received on the ground or what impact they had on the very people concerned. This article, therefore will touch only briefly on declarations and statements of theUNand instead focus on a bottom‐up perspective.
Improving immunological insights into the ferret model of human viral infectious disease
Authors: Wong Julius , Layton Daniel , Wheatley Adam K. , Kent Stephen J.
Published: October 2019

Ferrets are a well‐established model for studying both the pathogenesis and transmission of human respiratory viruses and evaluation of antiviral vaccines. Advanced immunological studies would add substantial value to the ferret models of disease but are hindered by the low number of ferret‐reactive reagents available for flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Nevertheless, progress has been made to understand immune responses in the ferret model with a limited set of ferret‐specific reagents and assays. This review examines current immunological insights gained from the ferret model across relevant human respiratory diseases, with a focus on influenza viruses. We highlight key knowledge gaps that need to be bridged to advance the utility of ferrets for immunological studies.
Saving Lives, or Costing Them? The Unintended Consequences of Data Protection
Authors: Carrigan Chris
Published: October 2019

Eighteen months on from the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation, the Data Protection Act 2018 and the NHS national data opt-out, Chris Carrigan of the patient data group use MY data considers what impact the new rules have had on health research
Learning to cope with everyday instances of social exclusion: A review of emotional and cognitive strategies for children and adolescents
Authors: Timeo Susanna , Riva Paolo , Paladino Maria Paola
Published: October 2019

Over 20 years of research has shown that social exclusion is a pervasive and powerful form of social threat. Social exclusion causes a wide variety of negative outcomes including negative emotions and threats to fundamental human needs (i.e., self‐esteem). Most importantly, experiencing exclusion during childhood or adolescence can provoke long‐term negative effects such as depression and anxiety disorders. Despite the growing interest in this domain, only recent studies have started to examine possible coping strategies to contrast the negative effects of exclusion. In this article, we first review the empirical findings concerning the consequences of social exclusion in children and adolescent populations. Second, we focus on cognitive and socio‐emotional strategies that children and adolescents can use to deal with exclusion when it has occurred. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Pro‐peace or anti‐war: The effect of emotions primed by protest songs on emotions toward in‐group and out‐group in conflict
Authors: Ziv Naomi
Published: October 2019

Members of societies in conflict hold stable positive and negative views, and emotions of the in‐group and out‐group, respectively. Music is a potent tool to express and evoke emotions. It is a social product created within a social and political context, reflecting, and commenting it. Protest songs aim to change views and attitudes toward ongoing conflicts. Their message may be expressed positively (pro‐peace songs) or negatively (anti‐war songs). Previous research has shown that evoking emotions such as guilt toward the in‐group or empathy toward the out‐group may influence attitudes toward reconciliation. The present research, conducted in Israel, presents three studies investigating whether emotions evoked by positive or negative protest songs may influence in‐group members' guilt toward the in‐group (Israeli Jews) and empathy toward the out‐group (Palestinians). Studies 1 and 2 show that negative emotions evoked by negative protests songs predicted both empathy and guilt when the out‐group is considered as a whole (Study 1) or as a particular individual (Study 2). Study 2 in addition showed that empathy predicts an altruistic decision regarding an out‐group member. Emotions evoked by lyrics alone (Study 3) did not contribute to explained variance in either guilt or empathy, nor the altruistic decision. Results suggest that negative emotions expressed by negative protest songs, focused on the in‐group, are more effective in influencing attitudes toward out‐groups. Results are discussed in the context of group emotions in conflict and the role of protest songs in intergroup relations.
Randomized Controlled Trial of the Marriage Checkup: Depression Outcomes
Authors: Gray Tatiana D. , Hawrilenko Matt , Cordova James V.
Published: October 2019

The association between relationship functioning and depressive symptoms is well established. This study examined the effects of the Marriage Checkup, a brief two‐session Assessment and Feedback relationship intervention, on depressive symptoms. Two hundred and nine married couples participated in the Marriage Checkup and were randomized into Treatment (N = 108) and Waitlist‐Control Conditions (N = 101). Compared to the control condition, intervention participants reported significant improvements in depressive symptoms (d = 0.55), with an even greater effect for those who were reporting more severe baseline depression symptoms (d = 0.67). These outcomes are comparable to those within long‐term individual psychotherapy, couple therapy, and pharmacology trials, making this the briefest intervention to date to demonstrate significant improvements in depressive symptoms. Clinical implications are discussed.
Plasma neurofilament light chain concentration is increased and correlates with the severity of neuropathy in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Kapoor Mahima , Foiani Martha , Heslegrave Amanda , Zetterberg Henrik , Lunn Michael P. , Malaspina Andrea , Gillmore Julian D. , Rossor Alexander M. , Reilly Mary M.
Published: October 2019

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRm) causes a disabling peripheral neuropathy as part of a multisystem disorder. The recent development of highly effective gene silencing therapies has highlighted the need for effective biomarkers of disease activity to guide the decision of when to start and stop treatment. In this study, we measured plasma neurofilament light chain (pNfL) concentration in 73 patients with ATTR and found that pNfL was significantly raised in ATTRm patients with peripheral neuropathy compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, pNFL correlated with disease severity as defined by established clinical outcome measures in patients for whom this information was available. These findings suggest a potential role of pNfL in monitoring disease activity and progression in ATTRm patients.
Characterization of blackleg and soft rot from potato in northern Thailand
Authors: Kumvinit Athidtaya , Akarapisan Angsana
Published: October 2019

Blackleg and soft rot of potato cause economic loss through reduced yield and quality. The causal agents of bacterial blackleg and soft rot of potato were identified based on biological data and sequence analyses of the 16S rDNA gene. Between 2016 and 2018, diseased potato stems and tubers were collected in Chai Prakan District, Chiang Mai Province, and Chiang Khum District, Pa Yao Province. The symptoms included black stem lesions, soft rot on tubers, wilting, break down of the stem vascular ring and foliar yellowing. Of 13 bacterial isolates, five were identified asPectobacterium carotovorumsubsp.brasiliense, four‐Dickeya dadantii, two‐Pseudomonas putidaand two‐Bacillus altitudinis. Pathogenicity tests ofP. carotovorumsubsp.brasilienseandD. dadantiiresulted in lower leaves turning yellow and wilting followed by blackleg symptoms on lower stems and maceration of tuber tissue. Symptoms caused byP. putidawere yellowing and wilting of leaves.B. altitudiniscaused yellowing of the lower leaves and wilting followed by drying of leaf tissue. This is a first report of these bacterial pathogens causing blackleg and soft rot of potato in Thailand.
Juvenile‐onset and adult‐onset demodicosis in dogs in the UK: prevalence and breed associations
Authors: O'Neill D. G. , Turgoose E. , Church D. B. , Brodbelt D. C. , Hendricks A.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To explore epidemiological features of demodicosis relevant to UK veterinary general practitioners. Breed risk factors were proposed as distinct between juvenile‐onset and adult‐onset disease.

Materials and Methods

The study used anonymised clinical data on dogs under primary veterinary care at practices enrolled in the UK VetCompass Programme. Case inclusion required recording of a final demodicosis diagnosis for a dermatological condition that was present during the 2013 study period. Risk factor analysis used multivariable logistic regression modelling.

Results

In dogs aged <2 years (juvenile‐onset), the 1‐year period prevalence was 0.48% (95% confidence interval: 0.45 to 0.52). Compared with crossbred dogs, seven breeds showed increased odds of diagnosis with demodex: British bulldog, Staffordshire bull terrier, Chinese shar‐pei, dogue de Bordeaux, pug, French bulldog and boxer. Additionally, six breeds showed reduced odds of juvenile demodicosis: Lhasa apso, bichon frise, Labrador retriever, German shepherd dog, shih‐tzu and Chihuahua. In dogs aged >4 years (adult‐onset), the 1‐year period prevalence was 0.05% (95% confidence interval: 0.0.04 to 0.06). Six breeds showed increased odds of demodicosis compared with crossbred dogs: Chinese shar‐pei, shih‐tzu, West Highland white terrier, pug, boxer and Border terrier.

Clinical Significance

Juvenile‐onset demodicosis is much more common (about 10 times higher) than the adult‐onset form. Knowledge of the predisposed breeds for these two presentations can assist with diagnosis and support the concept of distinct aetiopathogenetic phenotypes.