bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STAT3 and GR Cooperate to Drive Gene Expression and Growth of Basal-Like Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Conway Megan E. , McDaniel Joy M. , Graham James M. , Guillen Katrin P. , Oliver Patsy G. , Parker Stephanie L. , Yue Peibin , Turkson James , Buchsbaum Donald J. , Welm Bryan E. , Myers Richard M. , Varley Katherine E.
Published: August 2020

Breast cancers are divided into subtypes with different prognoses and treatment responses based on global differences in gene expression. Luminal breast cancer gene expression and proliferation are driven by estrogen receptor alpha, and targeting this transcription factor is the most effective therapy for this subtype. By contrast, it remains unclear which transcription factors drive the gene expression signature that defines basal-like triple-negative breast cancer, and there are no targeted therapies approved to treat this aggressive subtype. In this study, we utilized integrated genomic analysis of DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility, transcription factor binding, and gene expression in large collections of breast cancer cell lines and patient tumors to identify transcription factors responsible for the basal-like gene expression program. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and STAT3 bind to the same genomic regulatory regions, which were specifically open and unmethylated in basal-like breast cancer. These transcription factors cooperated to regulate expression of hundreds of genes in the basal-like gene expression signature, which were associated with poor prognosis. Combination treatment with small-molecule inhibitors of both transcription factors resulted in synergistic decreases in cell growth in cell lines and patient-derived organoid models. This study demonstrates that GR and STAT3 cooperate to regulate the basal-like breast cancer gene expression program and provides the basis for improved therapy for basal-like triple-negative breast cancer through rational combination of STAT3 and GR inhibitors.

Significance:

This study demonstrates that GR and STAT3 cooperate to activate the canonical gene expression signature of basal-like triple-negative breast cancer and that combination treatment with STAT3 and GR inhibitors could provide synergistic therapeutic efficacy.
Extracellular Vesicle–Derived miR-124 Resolves Radiation-Induced Brain Injury
Authors: Leavitt Ron J. , Acharya Munjal M. , Baulch Janet E. , Limoli Charles L.
Published: August 2020

Radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction (RICD) is a progressive and debilitating health issue facing patients following cranial radiotherapy to control central nervous system cancers. There has been some success treating RICD in rodents using human neural stem cell (hNSC) transplantation, but the procedure is invasive, requires immunosuppression, and could cause other complications such as teratoma formation. Extracellular vesicles (EV) are nanoscale membrane-bound structures that contain biological contents including mRNA, miRNA, proteins, and lipids that can be readily isolated from conditioned culture media. It has been previously shown that hNSC-derived EV resolves RICD following cranial irradiation using an immunocompromised rodent model. Here, we use immunocompetent wild-type mice to show that hNSC-derived EV treatment administered either intravenously via retro-orbital vein injection or via intracranial transplantation can ameliorate cognitive deficits following 9 Gy head-only irradiation. Cognitive function assessed on the novel place recognition, novel object recognition, and temporal order tasks was not only improved at early (5 weeks) but also at delayed (6 months) postirradiation times with just a single EV treatment. Improved behavioral outcomes were also associated with reduced neuroinflammation as measured by a reduction in activated microglia. To identify the mechanism of action, analysis of EV cargo implicated miRNA (miR-124) as a potential candidate in the mitigation of RICD. Furthermore, viral vector–mediated overexpression of miR-124 in the irradiated brain ameliorated RICD and reduced microglial activation. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that systemic administration of hNSC-derived EV abrogates RICD and neuroinflammation in cranially irradiated wild-type rodents through a mechanism involving miR-124.

Significance:

Radiation-induced neurocognitive decrements in immunocompetent mice can be resolved by systemic delivery of hNSC-derived EVs involving a mechanism dependent on expression of miR-124.
Association between the Onset of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Symptoms and Reduced Default Mode Network Connectivity
Authors: Miyazaki Koichi , Hanaoka Kohei , Kaida Hayato , Chiba Yasutaka , Ishii Kazunari
Published: August 2020

Objective: The aim was to examine the association between connectivity changes in the default mode network (DMN) and the progression of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). Methods: We retrospectively recruited cases of preclinical and clinical iNPH from 2,196 patients who had received whole-body 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) scanning. We included 31 cases with asymptomatic ventriculomegaly with features of iNPH on MRI (AVIM; reported as preclinical iNPH) and 12 with iNPH. We performed a voxel-based analysis of the brain FDG-PET images of the AVIM and iNPH groups as well as for each background-matched normal control (NC) group, using Statistical Parametric Mapping 12. Volume of interest (VOI)-based analysis was also performed. We set the VOI as the region from the precuneus to the posterior cingulate cortices (PCC), and compared the mean regional standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) between the AVIM and iNPH group FDG-PET/CT images and each corresponding NC group. Results: The voxel-based analysis showed a greater decreased FDG uptake in the PCC in the iNPH group than in the AVIM group. The VOI-based analysis revealed no significant difference in the mean SUVR of the AVIM group and the corresponding NC group, but that of the iNPH group was significantly lower than that of its corresponding NC group. Conclusions: DMN connectivity was reduced in the clinical iNPH group but not in the preclinical group. These data suggest that alterations in the functional connectivity of the DMN are related to the onset of iNPH symptoms.
Combined Multimodal Cerebral Monitoring and Focused Hemodynamic Assessment in the First 72 h in Extremely Low Gestational Age Infants
Authors: Deshpande Poorva , Jain Amish , Ibarra Ríos Daniel , Bhattacharya Soume , Dirks Julia , Baczynski Michelle , McNamara Karl P. , Hahn Cecil , McNamara Patrick J. , Shah Prakesh , Guerguerian Anne-Marie 
Published: August 2020

Background: Characteristic changes in cerebral saturation (CrSO2), amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG), and echocardiography (ECHO) may be associated with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH); however, the feasibility of their combined application is not known. Objective: The aim of this work was to investigate the feasibility and safety of combined multimodal cerebral and hemodynamic monitoring in extremely low gestational age (ELGA) infants in the first 72 h after birth. Methods: In this prospective ­observational study of 50 infants born between 23 + 0 and 27 + 6 weeks gestation, we measured CrSO2 and aEEG, starting <8 h until 72 h of age. Sequential echocardiography and head ultrasound were performed at 4–8, 12–18, 24–30, and 48–60 h of age. The primary outcome was feasibility of multimodal monitoring, defined as >75% of the subjects satisfying at least 3/4 criteria: (a) CrSO2 and (b) aEEG monitoring each for >75% of the time, and (c) at least 2 out of 4 ECHO and (d) head ultrasounds (at least one by age 24 h). Adverse reactions to sensors, desaturation, and bradycardia during ultrasound studies were recorded. Results: Fifty infants were enrolled over 14 months. Multimodal monitoring was feasible in 49 (98%) infants. Forty-one (82%) infants fulfilled all 4 criteria. Mild erythema below CrSO2 sensors lasting 3–8 h without skin breakdown was noted in 8/50 subjects (16%). Desaturation was noted during 17/197 (8.6%) of the ultrasound studies. In total, 26/50 (52%) infants developed IVH (grade I/II, n = 22; grade III/IV, n = 4). Conclusion: Multimodal monitoring is feasible, safe, and well tolerated in ELGA infants in the first 72 h after birth.
Eosinophil/Neutrophil/Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratios in Various Types of Immediate Hypersensitivity to NSAIDs: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Branicka Olga , Rogala Barbara , Glück Joanna
Published: August 2020

Background: The eosinophil/neutrophil/platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios (ELR, NLR, and PLR) have been used as clinical markers of systemic inflammation. However, they have not yet been tested in various subtypes of immediate hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Objectives: To assess the ELR, NLR, and PLR in various types of hypersensitivity to NSAIDs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of complete blood cell count and the ELR, NLR, and PLR was performed. Appropriate types of hypersensitivity to NSAIDs were diagnosed based on the anamnesis and drug provocation tests. The analysis covered 97 patients. Twenty were diagnosed with NERD (NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease), 20 with NECD (NSAID-exacerbated cutaneous disease), 38 with NIUA (NSAID-inducted urticaria/angioedema), and 19 with SNIUAA (single-NSAID-induced urticaria/angioedema or anaphylaxis). Two controls groups were included: the first covered 15 patients with bronchial asthma and the second 28 patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria without NSAID hypersensitivity. Results: The NLR did not differ significantly between the NSAID hypersensitivity types. The ELR was significantly higher in NERD patients, and the PLR was significantly lower in NECD patients than in patients with other types of NSAID hypersensitivity and in controls. Conclusions: The ELR and PLR may be useful in differentiating various types of immediate hypersensitivity to NSAIDs. Moreover, the ELR may be helpful in differentiating patients with bronchial asthma with and without NSAID hypersensitivity and PLR in differentiating patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria from NECD.
Dose-Dependent Influence of Antithyroid Drugs on the Difference in Free Thyroxine Levels between Mothers with Graves’ Hyperthyroidism and Their Neonates
Authors: Iwaki Hiroyuki , Ohba Kenji , Okada Eisaku , Murakoshi Takeshi , Kashiwabara Yumiko , Hayashi Chiga , Matsushita Akio , Sasaki Shigekazu , Suda Takafumi , Oki Yutaka , Gemma Rieko
Published: August 2020

Background: Several guidelines have recommended that the use of the lowest effective dose of antithyroid drugs (ATDs) that maintains maternal serum free thyroxine (FT4) levels at or moderately above the upper limit of the reference range is appropriate for fetal euthyroid status. However, little is known about whether ATD dosage affects the difference in serum FT4 levels between the mother and neonate. We conducted a retrospective study at a tertiary hospital in Japan to investigate the dose-dependent influence of ATDs on both maternal and fetal thyroid hormone status. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively examined 62 pregnant women who delivered between 2007 and 2016 and were treated for Graves’ hyperthyroidism with ATD at any stage during pregnancy. We selected individuals whose data on maternal FT4 level within 4 weeks of their deliveries and cord FT4 level of their infants at the time of delivery were available. Those with multiple pregnancies, iodine or glucocorticoid treatment, and fetal goiter detected by ultrasonography were excluded. Results: After the exclusion criteria were applied, we recruited 40 individuals. The cord FT4 levels were significantly lower than the maternal FT4 levels in patients treated with high-dosage ATDs (methimazole >5 mg daily or propylthiouracil >100 mg daily). However, there were no significant differences between maternal and cord FT4 levels in patients treated with low-dosage ATDs (methimazole ≤5 mg daily or propylthiouracil ≤100 mg daily). We selected 35 individuals whose data on maternal thyrotropin receptor-binding inhibitory immunoglobulin (TBII) level were available. Multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for ATD dosage, maternal TBII level, and gestational period found that ATD dosage was a significant predictor of the difference in serum FT4 levels between the mother and neonate. In terms of maternal complications, multiple logistic regression analysis identified maternal free triiodothyronine (FT3) level as a significant predictor of the incidence of preterm delivery. Conclusions: We found a dose-dependent influence of ATDs on the difference in serum FT4 levels between mothers with Graves’ hyperthyroidism and their neonates. Further studies to evaluate the optimal target FT4 and FT3 levels for the mother and neonate during pregnancy may improve the outcome of pregnant women with Graves’ hyperthyroidism.
Acute Cardiorenal Syndrome: Models and Heart-Kidney Connectors
Authors: Funahashi Yoshio , Chowdhury Sheuli , Eiwaz Mahaba B. , Hutchens Michael P.
Published: August 2020

Cardiorenal syndrome type 1 (CRS-1) is an acute kidney injury (AKI) due to acute worsening of cardiac function. More than 20% of patients with acute heart failure develop AKI, and AKI predicts poor outcome. Although a number of potential pathways have been suggested as heart-kidney connectors which might drive the syndrome, there are significant barriers to investigation, such as a paucity of animal models, a lack of specific biomarkers, and an inconsistent temporal and causal relationship between changes in cardiac flow and development of renal dysfunction. Thus, mechanisms of heart-kidney interaction are still unclear, and there is no specific or effective therapy for CRS-1. This review, therefore, focuses on mitigating these challenges in the investigation of CRS-1. We review the available models and focus on mechanistic insights gained from those models. In particular, we focus on non-flow and endocrine mediators of CRS-1 such as heart-derived messengers which alter renal function and which may represent targetable pathways in this syndrome. As precise connectors of heart-kidney interaction remain unclear, the establishment of animal and relevant cell-culture models and further investigation are required.
Dietary Vitamin D Supplementation Is Ineffective in Preventing Murine Cow’s Milk Allergy, Irrespective of the Presence of Nondigestible Oligosaccharides
Authors: Kerperien JoAnn , Veening-Griffioen Désirée , Oja Anna , Wehkamp Tjalling , Jeurink Prescilla V. , Garssen Johan , Knippels Leon M.J. , Willemsen Linette E.M.
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common food allergies especially early in life. A mixture of nondigestible short-chain galacto-oligosaccharides, long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides, and pectin-derived acidic-oligosaccharides (GFA) may reduce allergy development and allergic symptoms in murine CMA. Recently, vitamin D (VitD) has been suggested to have beneficial effects in reducing allergy as well. Objective: In this study, the immune modulatory effect on allergy prevention using the combination of GFA and VitD was investigated. Methods: Female C3H/HeOuJ mice were fed a control or GFA-containing diet with depleted, standard (1,000 IU/kg), or supplemented (5,000 IU/kg) VitD content for 2 weeks before and during whey sensitization (n = 10–15). Mice were sensitized 5 times intragastrically with PBS as a control, whey as cow’s milk allergen, and/or cholera toxin as adjuvant on a weekly interval. One week after the last sensitization, mice were intradermally challenged in both ear pinnae and orally with whey, subsequently the acute allergic skin response and shock symptoms were measured. After 18 h, terminal blood samples, mesenteric lymph nodes, and spleens were collected. Whey-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E and IgG1 levels were measured by means of ELISA. T cell subsets and dendritic cells (DCs) were studied using flow cytometry. Results: Additional VitD supplementation did not lower the allergic symptoms compared to the standard VitD diet. CMA mice fed the GFA diet supplemented with VitD (GFA VitD+) significantly decreased the acute allergic skin response of whey sensitized mice when compared to the CMA mice fed VitD (VitD+) group (p < 0.05). The effect of GFA was not improved by extra VitD supplementation even though the CMA mice fed the GFA VitD+ diet had a significantly increased percentage of CD103+ DCs compared to the VitD+ group (p < 0.05). The VitD-deprived mice showed a high percentage of severe shock and many reached the humane endpoint; therefore, these groups were not further analyzed. Conclusions: High-dose VitD supplementation in mice does not protect against CMA development in the presence or absence of GFA.
Putative Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma in situ (MPMIS) with Sequential Acquisition of Genomic Alterations on Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) Examination
Authors: Haefliger Simon , Savice Prince Spasenija , Rebetez Julien , Borer Heinz , Bubendorf Lukas
Published: August 2020

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and deadly disease. A precursor in situ lesion, malignant pleural mesothelioma in situ (MPMIS), has recently been proposed. On cytological examination, the distinction between reactive and malignant mesothelial cells is often challenging, and sometimes even impossible without ancillary methods. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for detection of 9p21 deletion is a powerful diagnostic tool in this context, both in histological and in cytological specimens. Here, we present a case of MPM with initial presentation as a putative MPMIS with disomic chromosomal pattern and homozygous 9p21 deletion with subsequent development of an aneuploid pattern after whole genome duplication during tumor progression.
Dynamics of Cardiac Neutrophil Diversity in Murine Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Vafadarnejad Ehsan , Rizzo Giuseppe , Krampert Laura , Arampatzi Panagiota , Arias-Loza Anahi-Paula , Nazzal Yara , Rizakou Anna , Knochenhauer Tim , Bandi Sourish Reddy , Nugroho Vallery Audy , Schulz Dirk J.J , Roesch Melanie , Alayrac Paul , Vilar Jose , Silvestre Jean-Sébastien , Zernecke Alma , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Cochain Clément
Published: August 2020

Rationale:

After myocardial infarction, neutrophils rapidly and massively infiltrate the heart, where they promote both tissue healing and damage.

Objective:

To characterize the dynamics of circulating and cardiac neutrophil diversity after infarction.

Methods and results:

We employed single-cell transcriptomics combined with cell surface epitope detection by sequencing to investigate temporal neutrophil diversity in the blood and heart after murine myocardial infarction. At day 1, 3, and 5 after infarction, cardiac Ly6G
+
(lymphocyte antigen 6G) neutrophils could be delineated into 6 distinct clusters with specific time-dependent patterning and proportions. At day 1, neutrophils were characterized by a gene expression profile proximal to bone marrow neutrophils (
Cd177
,
Lcn2
,
Fpr1
), and putative activity of transcriptional regulators involved in hypoxic response (
Hif1a
) and emergency granulopoiesis (
Cebpb
). At 3 and 5 days, 2 major subsets of
Siglecf

hi

(enriched for eg,
Icam1
and
Tnf
) and
Siglecf

low

(
Slpi, Ifitm1
) neutrophils were found. Cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing (CITE-seq) analysis in blood and heart revealed that while circulating neutrophils undergo a process of aging characterized by loss of surface CD62L and upregulation of
Cxcr4
, heart infiltrating neutrophils acquired a unique SiglecF
hi
signature. SiglecF
hi
neutrophils were absent from the bone marrow and spleen, indicating local acquisition of the SiglecF
hi
signature. Reducing the influx of blood neutrophils by anti-Ly6G treatment increased proportions of cardiac SiglecF
hi
neutrophils, suggesting accumulation of locally aged neutrophils. Computational analysis of ligand/receptor interactions revealed putative pathways mediating neutrophil to macrophage communication in the myocardium. Finally, SiglecF
hi
neutrophils were also found in atherosclerotic vessels, revealing that they arise across distinct contexts of cardiovascular inflammation.

Conclusions:

Altogether, our data provide a time-resolved census of neutrophil diversity and gene expression dynamics in the mouse blood and ischemic heart at the single-cell level, and reveal a process of local tissue specification of neutrophils in the ischemic heart characterized by the acquisition of a SiglecF
hi
signature.
Reasoning about Durations
Authors: Kelly Laura Jane , Khemlani Sangeet , Johnson-Laird P. N.
Published: August 2020

A set of assertions is consistent provided they can all be true at the same time. Naive individuals could prove consistency using the formal rules of a logical calculus, but it calls for them to fail to prove the negation of one assertion from the remainder in the set. An alternative procedure is for them to use an intuitive system (System 1) to construct a mental model of all the assertions. The task should be easy in this case. However, some sets of consistent assertions have no intuitive models and call for a deliberative system (System 2) to construct an alternative model. Formal rules and mental models therefore make different predictions. We report three experiments that tested their respective merits. The participants assessed the consistency of temporal descriptions based on statements using “during” and “before.” They were more accurate for consistent problems with intuitive models than for those that called for deliberative models. There was no robust difference in accuracy between consistent and inconsistent problems. The results therefore corroborated the model theory.
A comparison of large-scale science models based on textual, direct citation and hybrid relatedness
Authors: Boyack Kevin W. , Klavans Richard
Published: August 2020

Recent large-scale bibliometric models have largely been based on direct citation, and several recent studies have explored augmenting direct citation with other citation-based or textual characteristics. In this study we compare clustering results from direct citation, extended direct citation, a textual relatedness measure, and several citation-text hybrid measures using a set of nine million documents. Three different accuracy measures are employed, one based on references in authoritative documents, one using textual relatedness, and the last using document pairs linked by grants. We find that a hybrid relatedness measure based equally on direct citation and PubMed-related article scores gives more accurate clusters (in the aggregate) than the other relatedness measures tested. We also show that the differences in cluster contents between the different models are even larger than the differences in accuracy, suggesting that the textual and citation logics are complementary. Finally, we show that for the hybrid measure based on direct citation and related article scores, the larger clusters are more oriented toward textual relatedness, while the smaller clusters are more oriented toward citation-based relatedness.
Species delimitation in Capparis spinosa group (Capparaceae) in Iran: Multivariate morphometric analysis and ISSR markers

Authors: AHMADI MARYAM , SAEIDI HOJJATOLLAH , MIRTADZADINI MANSOUR
Published: August 2020

Multivariate morphometric approach (using PCA mix and CDA) and Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat Markers (ISSR) were used to characterize the patterns of morphological and genetic relationships of Capparis spinosa group in Iran. The morphological data analyses revealed that this complex could be divided into three main groups. C. spinosa subsp. cartilaginea and C. spinosa subsp. spinosa var. mucronifolia were reliably delineated by morphological data, but C. spinosa subsp. spinosa var. parviflora, C. spinosa subsp. spinosa var. herbacea, C. spinosa subsp. spinosa var. canescens, C. spinosa subsp. spinosa var. aegyptia and their intermediate phenotypes were overlapped. The results of ISSR data were different from morphological analyses and var. parviflora exhibited a close genetic affinity to var. mucronifolia rather than the other varieties of sub. spinosa. The results of this study revealed that subsp. cartilaginea should be recognized at species level. In case of var. parviflora, we propose subspecies level for this variety. Further investigation is needed to reveal the taxonomic status of var. mucronifolia.
Brachysira aristidesii sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Brachysiraceae): a new species from oligotrophic and mesotrophic tropical reservoirs in southeastern Brazil

Authors: ZORZAL-ALMEIDA STÉFANO , BARTOZEK ELAINE C. RODRIGUES , MORALES EDUARDO A. , BICUDO DENISE C.
Published: August 2020

A new diatom species, Brachysira aristidesii sp. nov., is described from three oligotrophic and mesotrophic reservoirs in Piracicaba River basin, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Descriptions are based on light and scanning electron microscopy. The new species is mainly characterized by rhombic-lanceolate valves with strongly capitated ends, filiform and straight raphe, narrow and linear axial area, slightly radiate striae and transapically elongated areolae. It is compared to Brachysira microcephala, B. silvicola, B. vitrea, B. neoexilis and Nupela brachysiroides. Our findings suggest that Brachysira aristidesii is a species mainly associated to high water transparency, low to moderate conductivity, slightly acidic and low nutrient environments.
Causes of Interdecadal Increase in the Intraseasonal Rainfall Variability over Southern China around the Early 1990s
Authors: Cheng Yifeng , Wang Lu , Li Tim
Published: August 2020

The southern China (SC) summer rainfall exhibits prominent intraseasonal variability, which exhibits a significant increase in the early 1990s with the turning point at 1993. The SC intraseasonal rainfall events could be divided into three categories according to different propagations, including the southward-propagating (SP) events, the northwestward-propagating (NWP) events, and the northward-propagating (NP) events. This study explores the causes of the observed interdecadal increase in the intraseasonal rainfall variability over SC by comparing the SC intraseasonal rainfall events of each category between the former decadal period (P1) and the later decadal period (P2). The result indicates that such interdecadal change is due to the more frequent NP events coming from the South China Sea (SCS). Based on the moisture and vorticity budget analysis, it is revealed that the summer mean southerly wind in the middle to lower troposphere is the dominant factor of the northward propagation over the SCS, as it could induce positive meridional moisture and vorticity advection anomalies ahead of the convection. A marked interdecadal enhancement of the summer mean southerly wind over the SCS is the cause of more frequent occurrence of NP events over SC, as it provides more favorable conditions for the northward propagation. The change of the atmospheric instability over the SCS where the NP convection perturbation originates was also investigated, but no significant change was found.
A Critical Evaluation of the Adequacy of the Gamma Model for Representing Raindrop Size Distributions
Authors: Gatidis Christos , Schleiss Marc , Unal Christine , Russchenberg Herman
Published: August 2020

The adequacy of the gamma model to describe the variability of raindrop size distributions (DSD) is studied using observations from an optical disdrometer. Model adequacy is checked using a combination of Kolmogorov–Smirnov goodness-of-fit test and Kullback–Leibler divergence and the sensitivity of the results to the sampling resolution is investigated. A new adaptive DSD sampling technique capable of determining the highest possible temporal sampling resolution at which the gamma model provides an adequate representation of sampled DSDs is proposed. The results show that most DSDs at 30 s are not strictly distributed according to a gamma model, while at the same time they are not far away from it either. According to the adaptive DSD sampling algorithm, the gamma model proves to be an adequate choice for the majority (85.81%) of the DSD spectra at resolutions up to 300 s. At the same time, it also reveals a considerable number of DSD spectra (5.55%) that do not follow a gamma distribution at any resolution (up to 1800 s). These are attributed to transitional periods during which the DSD is not stationary and exhibits a bimodal shape that cannot be modeled by a gamma distribution. The proposed resampling procedure is capable of automatically identifying and flagging these periods, providing new valuable quality control mechanisms for DSD retrievals in disdrometers and weather radars.
The Dynamics of Prioritizing: How Actors Temporally Pattern Complex Role–Routine Ecologies
Authors: Kremser Waldemar , Blagoev Blagoy
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the emergence of temporal coordination among multiple interdependent routines in a complex work setting that does not allow for up-front scheduling. We propose that when actors continuously have to prioritize their expected contributions to multiple interdependent routines, they address this challenge by orienting not just toward routines but also toward person-roles. Drawing on an ethnographic study of an agile consulting project team confronted with continued scheduling failures, we demonstrate how the dynamics of prioritizing enabled the actors to resolve what at first appeared to be an irresolvable and highly complex problem of temporal coordination. We add to the literature on routine dynamics and temporality by setting forth the dynamics of prioritizing as an explanation for the temporal patterning of complex work settings. We introduce the notion of role–routine ecologies as a novel way to conceptualize such complex work settings and contribute to developing a performative theory of person-roles and their significance for coordinating.
HCC Liver Transplantation Wait List Dropout Rates Before and After the Mandated 6-Month Wait Time
Authors: Sokolich Julio , Buggs Jacentha , LaVere Michael , Robichaux Kobe , Rogers Ebonie , Nyce Samantha , Kumar Ambuj , Bowers Victor
Published: August 2020

Background

Studies have shown significant improvement in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence rates after liver transplantation since the united network of organ sharing (UNOS) implementation of a 6-month wait period prior to accrued exception model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) points enacted on October 8, 2015. However, few have examined the impact on HCC dropout rates for patients awaiting liver transplant. Our objective is to evaluate the outcomes of HCC dropout rates before and after the mandatory 6-month wait policy enacted.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on adult patients added to the liver transplant wait list between January 1, 2012, and March 8, 2019 (n = 767). Information was obtained through electronic medical records and organ procurement and transplant network (OPTN) publicly available national data reports.

Results

In response to the 2015 UNOS-mandated 6-month wait time, dropout rates in the HCC patient population at our center increased from 12% pre-mandate to 20.8% post-mandate This increase was similarly reflected in the national dropout rate, which also increased from 26.3% pre-mandate to 29.0% post-mandate.

Discussion

From these changes, it is evident that the UNOS mandate achieved its goal of increasing equity of liver organ allocation, but HCC patients are nonetheless dropping off of the wait list at an increased rate and are therefore disadvantaged.
Dysphagia and Dysphonia, a Pairing of Symptoms Caused by an Unusual Pair of Diseases: Castleman’s Disease and Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Abdelmeguid Ahmed , Rojansky Rebecca , Berry Gerald J. , Dewan Karuna
Published: August 2020

Objectives:

To describe a case of coincident Castleman’s disease and myasthenia gravis that initially presented as rapidly progressive dysphagia and dysphonia and to review the unique pathophysiology of these two uncommon diagnoses.

Methods:

Case report and literature review.

Results:

Castleman’s disease, angiofollicular or giant lymph node hyperplasia, is a rare benign lymphoid proliferation. Traditionally, the disease is classified based on histologic and clinical characteristics. Fewer than 10 cases with concurrent myasthenia gravis have been reported. Myasthenia gravis and thymic epithelial tumors are both associated with acetylcholine receptor antibody. While patients with isolated Castleman’s disease are usually asymptomatic, those who have concurrent myasthenia gravis and undergo surgical treatment are at increased risk of postoperative myasthenic crisis. Both pre- and postoperative plasmapheresis are suggested to improve muscle strength and prevent severe postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

In the setting of multiple cranial neuropathies including velopalatal insufficiency and bilateral ptosis it is important to consider myasthenia gravis. Castleman’s disease occurs rarely in conjunction with myasthenia gravis but may increase the risk of myasthenic crisis.
A Time and Place for Sustainability: A Spatiotemporal Perspective on Organizational Sustainability Frame Development
Authors: Mazutis Daina , Slawinski Natalie , Palazzo Guido
Published: August 2020

In this article, we explore how sense of time and sense of place shape the development of organizational sustainability frames (OSFs). Time and place are fundamental cultural assumptions that influence the way organizations form these frames. Given that globalization and digitalization have fundamentally altered how organizations experience and value time and place, we develop a typology of OSF development and theorize how an organization’s sense of time and sense of place interact to shape the content and structure of OSFs. In so doing, we offer a spatiotemporal perspective to the sustainability literature by bringing together previously disconnected research streams on time and place. We also highlight the importance of understanding the origins, not just the outcomes, of OSFs.
Tobacco prevention education for middle school and high school educators
Authors: Baer Caroline M , Khoussine Michaela A , Dobbs Page D
Published: August 2020

Objectives:

In an attempt to reduce tobacco use among adolescents in the USA, some health educators have created school-based tobacco education programmes. However, none currently exist for middle and high school educators. The current study sought to determine if middle and high school educators’ knowledge about combustible cigarettes and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) improved following an educational session about youth tobacco use.

Design:

Pre-/post-assessment was employed to measure change in knowledge.

Setting:

Educators ( N = 41) from a rural, southern middle and high school were invited to take part in the study during an educational workshop held during an in-service training event.

Method:

In addition to seven knowledge questions, participants also provided demographic information and details of current and previous use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Chi-square analyses examined changes in responses to individual items, and total pre-/post-knowledge score change was compared using a dependent t-test. Independent t-tests examined differences between knowledge change and participants’ personal and behavioural characteristics.

Results:

Participants’ overall knowledge improved from pre- to the post-test ( p < .05); however, there was no relationship between pre-/post-test responses for individual items. In addition, there were no differences between participants’ knowledge change when compared by age, sex, grades taught and past use of cigarettes or e-cigarettes.

Discussion:

Increasing middle school and high school educators’ knowledge about tobacco products, particularly novel devices, is important due to the increasing rates of use among youth. More research is needed to determine how educators’ knowledge can help decrease tobacco initiation and use among school-aged children.
What’s good about the good life? Action theory, virtue ethics and modern morality
Authors: Vandenberghe Frédéric
Published: August 2020

The article explores the scope and the limits of virtue ethics from the perspective of critical theory (Habermas) and critical realism (Bhaskar). Based on new research in moral sociology and anthropology, it ponders how the self-realization of each can be combined with the self-determination of all. The article adopts an action-theoretical perspective on morality and defends the priority of the right over the good. It suggests that in plural and polarized societies, there no longer exists a consensus on any version of the good life. It therefore limits the scope of virtue ethics to personal life and pleads for a minima moralia at the social and political level.
Perceived institutional support and small venture performance: The mediating role of entrepreneurial persistence
Authors: Ahsan Mujtaba , Adomako Samuel , Mole Kevin F
Published: August 2020

This article examines the entrepreneurial persistence of opportunity-motivated entrepreneurs in Ghana. Specifically, it develops a theoretical model focusing on the relationships among perceived institutional support, entrepreneurial persistence and small venture performance, including how entrepreneurial networks condition the relationship between institutional support and entrepreneurial persistence. Using time-lagged data from 373 opportunity-motivated entrepreneurs leading small ventures in Ghana, we find broad support for our hypotheses. The insights from our study provide an integrative understanding of the relationships among perceived institutional support, entrepreneurial persistence and venture performance in an adverse environment. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Association between body mass index and clinical characteristics, as well as with management, in Chinese patients with breast cancer
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhu Lizhe , Jiang Siyuan , Zhao Lizhi , Zhou Yuhui , Niu Ligang , Yan Yu , Wang Ke
Published: August 2020

Objective

Body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor associated with breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This study aimed to identify the associations of BMI with clinical characteristics and management of breast cancer in female Chinese patients.

Methods

Clinicopathological information on 1296 women who were diagnosed with breast cancer was collected at our hospital. We recorded the clinicopathological characteristics, molecular phenotypes, manner of diagnosis, implementation rate of preoperative examinations, and surgical method used.

Results

Significant differences were found in the tumor size, disease stage, manner of diagnosis, implementation rate of preoperative examinations, and the surgical method among different BMI groups. In premenopausal patients, significant differences were found in the distribution of molecular phenotypes and surgical approach among different BMI groups. In postmenopausal patients, different BMI groups showed significant differences in the tumor size, disease stage, distribution of molecular phenotypes, manner of diagnosis, rate of implementation of preoperative mammography, and surgical method.

Conclusion

Higher BMI is associated with a larger tumor size, more advanced disease stage, diagnosis by physical examination, higher implementation rate of preoperative examinations, and lower radical surgery rate in Chinese women with breast cancer. However, the relationship between BMI and molecular phenotypes differs between pre- and postmenopausal women.
Granulomatous Inflammation of the Muzzle in White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) Associated With Mannheimia granulomatis
Authors: Keel M. Kevin , Keeler Shamus , Brown Justin , Fenton Heather , Munk Brandon , Gerhold Rick , Gottdenker Nicole , Ruder Mark , Elsmo Elizabeth , Nemeth Nicole
Published: August 2020

Since 2002, reports of deer with swollen muzzles from throughout the United States have resulted in significant interest by wildlife biologists and wildlife enthusiasts. The condition was identified in 25 white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus) and 2 mule deer ( O. hemionus). Microscopic lesions consisted of severe, granulomatous or pyogranulomatous inflammation of the muzzle, nasal planum, and upper lip, as well as similar but less severe inflammation of the hard palate. Lymphadenitis of regional lymph nodes was common and granulomatous pneumonia was present in one individual. Splendore-Hoeppli material was typical in the center of inflammatory foci. Other than the single instance of pneumonia, systemic disease was not evident. Various bacterial species were isolated in culture, most of which were not morphologically consistent with the colonies of small, gram-negative bacteria observed in the center of the granulomas. Amplification and sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from tissues of affected deer resulted in the identification of Mannheimia granulomatis. Laser capture microdissection was used to confirm that the colonies in the inflammatory foci were M. granulomatis. The cases described here are reminiscent of a bovine disease in Brazil and Argentina, locally called lechiguana. Although the inflammation of lechiguana is mostly truncal, the microscopic lesions are very similar and are also attributed to M. granulomatis. It is unclear if this is an emerging infectious disease of deer, or if it is a sporadic, uncommon condition that has only recently been recognized.
What has Leviticus 17 to do with Deuteronomy 12.20–27? The literary relationship between the Deuteronomic and Holiness Codes on cult centralization and animal slaughter
Authors: Fuad Chelcent
Published: August 2020

This article examines the literary connection between the laws of cult centralization and animal slaughter in Lev. 17 and Deut. 12.20–27. After establishing a set of criteria for determining the literary connection between two texts, the author compares and analyzes the textual evidence in Lev. 17 and Deut. 12.20–27. This study concludes that the connection between the two passages may not be one of literary dependence of one text upon the other as has been widely assumed by many scholars. Instead, even though both texts attempt to deal with the same socio-religious issues, they may have been literarily independent of each other.
Breast Is (Viewed as) Best: Demonstrating Formula Feeding Stigma
Authors: Moss-Racusin Corinne A. , Schofield Casey A. , Brown Sophie S. , O’Brien Kerry A.
Published: August 2020

Experimental research has not examined possible formula feeding stigma. We explored whether mothers encounter stigma resulting from infant feeding method and if formula feeding stigma is impacted by whether this feeding method was intended or unintended. Experiment 1 ( N = 252) exposed participants to a social media post in which a mother described intentionally breastfeeding, formula feeding, or did not mention a feeding method (control). Results provided the first experimental evidence of formula feeding stigma; the formula feeding mother was viewed less positively than the identical breastfeeding and control mothers, who were typically not perceived differently than one another. Experiment 2 ( N = 388) added conditions in which feeding methods were unintended. When feeding methods were intended, results replicated Experiment 1. However, when feeding methods were unintended, the pattern fully reversed; unintended formula feeders were viewed more positively than unintended breast-feeders. Further, women who formula fed were penalized when they did so intentionally, while those who breastfed were penalized when they did so unintentionally. This suggests that formula feeding stigma stems primarily from perceptions of feeding intentions (rather than the belief that breast milk is superior) because mothers who planned to formula feed were viewed more negatively than those who planned to breastfeed, regardless of whether babies actually received formula or breast milk. These results imply that caregivers, health care providers, and policy makers should be mindful of the potential for pro-breastfeeding rhetoric to be associated with formula feeding stigma (with potential consequences for the health of women and infants) and consider implementing interventions designed to reduce stigma and promote awareness of the safety and utility of proper formula use.
Medial Elbow Instability Resulting From Partial Tears of the Ulnar Collateral Ligament: Stress Ultrasound in a Cadaveric Model
Authors: Ciccotti Michael C. , Hammoud Sommer , Dodson Christopher C. , Cohen Steven B. , Nazarian Levon N. , Ciccotti Michael G.
Published: August 2020

Background:

There is consensus that most complete ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries in throwers would benefit from surgical intervention. Optimal treatment for partial UCL tears remains controversial. Stress ultrasonography has become a well-accepted diagnostic modality for assessing UCL injury.

Hypothesis:

Partial UCL tears will result in an intermediate increase in ulnohumeral joint space gapping as compared with that of an intact UCL and a complete UCL tear, but the degree of joint space gapping will vary by anatomic location of the partial tear.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Twenty-one cadaveric elbows were divided into 7 groups representing different anatomic locations of UCL partial tears. Partial tears were simulated by cutting 50% of the measured width of the UCL at 6 locations: distal anterior/posterior, midsubstance anterior/posterior, and proximal anterior/posterior. A seventh partial tear was created by partially elevating the undersurface of the distal UCL to simulate the radiographic “T-sign.” Valgus stress (15 daN) was applied to each cadaveric elbow at 30° of flexion using a standardized device. Each specimen was tested intact, partially torn, and completely torn. At each state, joint space was measured using stress ultrasonography, and the difference in joint space from unstressed to stressed (delta) was recorded.

Results:

There were 10 right and 11 left upper extremity specimens. The mean delta was 0.58 mm for the intact state and <0.75 mm in all groups. Both distal partial tear groups had mean deltas <0.75 mm, similar to intact elbows. Proximal tears and the T-sign demonstrated intermediate deltas (0.99-1.23 mm). Midsubstance partial tears demonstrated the largest deltas (1.57-2.03 mm), similar to those of the complete tears. All complete tear groups had a mean delta >1.5 mm (1.54-3.03 mm).

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that partial tears introduce a spectrum of instability from functionally intact to completely torn. As a result, some may be biomechanically amenable to nonoperative treatment, while others would be indicated for early reconstruction. Further research into the biological and biomechanical determinants of nonoperative treatment failure will assist with more precise treatment recommendations.

Clinical Relevance:

Describing the biomechanical consequences of different, clinically significant partial UCL tears potentially allows more precise recommendations for operative and nonoperative treatment.