bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dichotomy of superconductivity between monolayer FeS and FeSe
Authors: Shigekawa Koshin , Nakayama Kosuke , Kuno Masato , Phan Giao N. , Owada Kenta , Sugawara Katsuaki , Takahashi Takashi , Sato Takafumi
Published: November 2019

The discovery of high-temperature (
T
c
) superconductivity in monolayer FeSe on SrTiO
3
raised a fundamental question: Whether high
T
c
is commonly realized in monolayer iron-based superconductors. Tetragonal FeS is a key material to resolve this issue because bulk FeS is a superconductor with
T
c
comparable to that of isostructural FeSe. However, difficulty in synthesizing tetragonal monolayer FeS due to its metastable nature has hindered further investigations. Here we report elucidation of band structure of monolayer FeS on SrTiO
3
, enabled by a unique combination of in situ topotactic reaction and molecular-beam epitaxy. Our angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy on FeS and FeSe revealed marked similarities in the electronic structure, such as heavy electron doping and interfacial electron–phonon coupling, both of which have been regarded as possible sources of high
T
c
in FeSe. However, surprisingly, high-
T
c
superconductivity is absent in monolayer FeS. This is linked to the weak superconducting pairing in electron-doped multilayer FeS in which the interfacial effects are absent. Our results strongly suggest that the cross-interface electron–phonon coupling enhances
T
c
only when it cooperates with the pairing interaction inherent to the superconducting layer. This finding provides a key insight to explore heterointerface high-
T
c
superconductors.
Obligate bacterial endosymbionts limit thermal tolerance of insect host species
Authors: Zhang Bo , Leonard Sean P. , Li Yiyuan , Moran Nancy A.
Published: November 2019

The thermal tolerance of an organism limits its ecological and geographic ranges and is potentially affected by dependence on temperature-sensitive symbiotic partners. Aphid species vary widely in heat sensitivity, but almost all aphids are dependent on the nutrient-provisioning intracellular bacterium
Buchnera
, which has evolved with aphids for 100 million years and which has a reduced genome potentially limiting heat tolerance. We addressed whether heat sensitivity of
Buchnera
underlies variation in thermal tolerance among 5 aphid species. We measured how heat exposure of juvenile aphids affects later survival, maturation time, and fecundity. At one extreme, heat exposure of
Aphis gossypii
enhanced fecundity and had no effect on the
Buchnera
titer. In contrast, heat suppressed
Buchnera
populations in
Aphis fabae
, which suffered elevated mortality, delayed development and reduced fecundity. Likewise, in
Acyrthosiphon kondoi
and
Acyrthosiphon pisum
, heat caused rapid declines in
Buchnera
numbers, as well as reduced survivorship, development rate, and fecundity. Fecundity following heat exposure is severely decreased by a
Buchnera
mutation that suppresses the transcriptional response of a gene encoding a small heat shock protein. Similarly, absence of this
Buchnera
heat shock gene may explain the heat sensitivity of
Ap. fabae
. Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed heat-induced deformation and shrinkage of bacteriocytes in heat-sensitive species but not in heat-tolerant species. Sensitive and tolerant species also differed in numbers and transcriptional responses of heat shock genes. These results show that shifts in
Buchnera
heat sensitivity contribute to host variation in heat tolerance.
Expansion of GGC repeat in the human-specific NOTCH2NLC gene is associated with essential tremor
Authors: Sun Qi-Ying , Xu Qian , Tian Yun , Hu Zheng-Mao , Qin Li-Xia , Yang Jin-Xia , Huang Wen , Xue Jin , Li Jin-Chen , Zeng Sheng , Wang Ying , Min Hao-Xuan , Chen Xiao-Yu , Wang Jun-Pu , Xie Bin , Liang Fan , Zhang Hai-Nan , Wang Chun-Yu , Lei Li-Fang , Yan Xin-Xiang , Xu Hong-Wei , Duan Ran-Hui , Xia Kun , Liu Jing-Yu , Jiang Hong , Shen Lu , Guo Ji-Feng , Tang Bei-Sha
Published: November 2019

Essential tremor is one of the most common movement disorders. Despite its high prevalence and heritability, the genetic aetiology of essential tremor remains elusive. Up to now, only a few genes/loci have been identified, but these genes have not been replicated in other essential tremor families or cohorts. Here we report a genetic study in a cohort of 197 Chinese pedigrees clinically diagnosed with essential tremor. Using a comprehensive strategy combining linkage analysis, whole-exome sequencing, long-read whole-genome sequencing, repeat-primed polymerase chain reaction and GC-rich polymerase chain reaction, we identified an abnormal GGC repeat expansion in the 5′ region of the NOTCH2NLC gene that co-segregated with disease in 11 essential tremor families (5.58%) from our cohort. Clinically, probands that had an abnormal GGC repeat expansion were found to have more severe tremor phenotypes, lower activities of daily living ability. Obvious genetic anticipation was also detected in these 11 essential tremor-positive families. These results indicate that abnormal GGC repeat expansion in the 5′ region of NOTCH2NLC gene is associated with essential tremor, and provide strong evidence that essential tremor is a family of diseases with high clinical and genetic heterogeneities.
Tuberculosis Disease in Children and Adolescents on Therapy With Antitumor Necrosis Factor-ɑ Agents: A Collaborative, Multicenter Paediatric Tuberculosis Network European Trials Group (ptbnet) Study
Authors: Noguera-Julian Antoni , Calzada-Hernández Joan , Brinkmann Folke , Basu Roy Robindra , Bilogortseva Olga , Buettcher Michael , Carvalho Isabel , Chechenyeva Vira , Falcón Lola , Goetzinger Florian , Guerrero-Laleona Carmelo , Hoffmann Peter , Jelusic Marija , Niehues Tim , Ozere Iveta , Shackley Fiona , Suciliene Elena , Welch Steven B , Schölvinck Elisabeth H , Ritz Nicole , Tebruegge Marc
Published: November 2019

Background

In adults, anti–tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) therapy is associated with progression of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection (LTBI) to TB disease, but pediatric data are limited.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter study within the Paediatric Tuberculosis Network European Trials Group, capturing patients <18 years who developed TB disease during anti–TNF-α therapy.

Results

Sixty-six tertiary healthcare institutions providing care for children with TB participated. Nineteen cases were identified: Crohn’s disease (n = 8; 42%) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (n = 6; 32%) were the commonest underlying conditions. Immune-based TB screening (tuberculin skin test and/or interferon-γ release assay) was performed in 15 patients before commencing anti–TNF-α therapy but only identified 1 LTBI case; 13 patients were already receiving immunosuppressants at the time of screening. The median interval between starting anti–TNF-α therapy and TB diagnosis was 13.1 (IQR, 7.1–20.3) months. All cases presented with severe disease, predominantly miliary TB (n = 14; 78%). One case was diagnosed postmortem. TB was microbiologically confirmed in 15 cases (79%). The median duration of anti-TB treatment was 50 (IQR, 46–66) weeks. Five of 15 (33%) cases who had completed TB treatment had long-term sequelae.

Conclusions

LTBI screening is frequently false-negative in this patient population, likely due to immunosuppressants impairing test performance. Therefore, patients with immune-mediated diseases should be screened for LTBI at the point of diagnosis, before commencing immunosuppressive medication. Children on anti–TNF-α therapy are prone to severe TB disease and significant long-term morbidity. Those observations underscore the need for robust LTBI screening programs in this high-risk patient population, even in low-TB-prevalence settings.
PIK3CA Mutation in HPV-Associated OPSCC Patients Receiving Deintensified Chemoradiation
Authors: Beaty Brian T , Moon Dominic H , Shen Colette J , Amdur Robert J , Weiss Jared , Grilley-Olson Juneko , Patel Shetal , Zanation Adam , Hackman Trevor G , Thorp Brian , Blumberg Jeffrey M , Patel Samip N , Weissler Mark C , Yarbrough Wendell G , Sheets Nathan C , Parker Joel S , Neil Hayes D , Weck Karen E , Ramkissoon Lori A , Mendenhall William M , Dagan Roi , Tan Xianming , Gupta Gaorav P , Chera Bhishamjit S
Published: November 2019

PIK3CA is the most frequently mutated gene in human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Prognostic implications of such mutations remain unknown. We sought to elucidate the clinical significance of PIK3CA mutations in HPV-associated OPSCC patients treated with definitive chemoradiation (CRT). Seventy-seven patients with HPV-associated OPSCC were enrolled on two phase II clinical trials of deintensified CRT (60 Gy intensity-modulated radiotherapy with concurrent weekly cisplatin). Targeted next-generation sequencing was performed. Of the 77 patients, nine had disease recurrence (two regional, four distant, three regional and distant). Thirty-four patients had mutation(s) identified; 16 had PIK3CA mutations. Patients with wild-type-PIK3CA had statistically significantly higher 3-year disease-free survival than PIK3CA-mutant patients (93.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 85.0% to 99.9% vs 68.8%, 95% CI = 26.7% to 89.8%; P = .004). On multivariate analysis, PIK3CA mutation was the only variable statistically significantly associated with disease recurrence (hazard ratio = 5.71, 95% CI = 1.53 to 21.3; P = .01). PIK3CA mutation is associated with worse disease-free survival in a prospective cohort of newly diagnosed HPV-associated OPSCC patients treated with deintensified CRT.
Psychoeducation
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

The primary purpose of this chapter is to help the client understand his or her diagnosis in the context of normal and excessive social anxiety. The therapist helps the client gain an appreciation that cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective and also provides a basic understanding of the nature of CBT, including the investment of effort and energy required. An important aspect is socialization to help the client to understand the need for his or her active participation, including making an emotional investment in change and participating in the many activities of therapy. The therapist works to enhance motivation for change and builds the therapeutic alliance.
Psychoeducation
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

The primary purpose this chapter is to finish presentation to the client of the cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) model, with a discussion of the etiology and maintenance of social anxiety. Clients vary on how much they want to know about some of the details; however, nearly everyone asks about etiology at some point in treatment. This chapter includes the beginning of monitoring progress using the Social Anxiety Session Change Index (SASCI). From this point in therapy forward, at the beginning of each session, clients complete the SASCI. The chapter is an opportunity to reinforce the basics of the CBT model.
The Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

In this chapter, the therapist and client continue to refine their understanding of the client’s three components of anxiety and develop a Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy. A Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy is a “top 10” list of situations in which the client experiences social anxiety. The greatest fear is in the number 1 position. Once the items are generated, each is rated for the level of anxiety it evokes and the likelihood that the person would avoid the situation if it were to occur in his or her life. There are four steps in constructing a Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy: (a) brainstorming, (b) discovering what makes a situation easier or harder and refining the client’s list of situations, (c) making ratings of fear and avoidance for each situation, and (d) rank ordering the situations. A hierarchy is meant to provide a good representation of situations that cause the client anxiety.
Exposure and Cognitive Restructuring
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

The first in-session exposure is a highlight of this therapy. (It is specified that exposure must occur no later than session 8 of treatment.) This is the first opportunity to fully integrate all of the therapeutic elements. Everything up to this point has been preparation for facing feared situations. Prior to the session, the therapist is instructed to review the client’s Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy and to determine what situation will likely be role-played. For the first exposure, simple, straightforward scenarios that require little “pretending” are the best. Although it is easy to skip setting an achievable behavioral goal to save time, this step is essential. Debriefing the exposure is often the most powerful portion of the intervention.
Exposure and Cognitive Restructuring
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

Although this chapter focuses on public speaking fears, many similar issues arise for clients who fear being the center of attention or speaking up in large or small groups, such as meetings and classes. Research indicated that most socially anxious individuals fear public speaking, but not all desire treatment for the problem. Although such fears may be long standing, individuals with public speaking anxiety are often prompted to seek treatment by a new opportunity, such as a promotion at work or following what they perceive to be a failed public speaking experience. The largest difficulty in designing in-session exposures for individuals with fears about public speaking is being able to create the conditions that will evoke anxiety. Common automatic thoughts reported by individuals with public speaking fears usually center on the visibility of anxiety symptoms or concerns about the quality of one’s performance.
Termination
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

This final chapter focuses on assessment of progress, relapse prevention, and termination. After approximately 15 sessions of treatment for the typical client with moderately severe symptoms, it is time to stop and assess progress. Treatment for social anxiety may continue with the same interventions, additional interventions may be added, all treatment may end, or treatment may shift to focus on other issues. Assessment of progress involves reviewing the progress checklist shown at the beginning of chapter 13 in the Client Workbook and re-rating the Fear and Avoidance Hierarchy. It is normal for some social anxiety to remain, but the avoidance ratings should be dramatically reduced.
Starting Our Journey Together From the Same Place
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

This chapter helps clients understand more about their own anxiety in the context of the cognitive–behavioral model. The three components of anxiety (physiological, cognitive, and behavioral) are presented, as well as a thorough discussion of avoidance. Avoidance is often a big problem for people with social anxiety because avoiding a few situations that make a person anxious can quickly snowball into a general pattern of avoiding many situations. When people become anxious, they rarely experience just one of the components of anxiety. The cognitive, physiological, and behavioral components interact with each other, and an increase or decrease in one may cause increases or decreases in the other two. The three components of treatment are also discussed. These are systematic graduated exposure, cognitive restructuring, and homework assignments.
Getting Into the Pool
Authors: Hope Debra A. , Heimberg Richard G. , Turk Cynthia L.
Published: November 2019

This chapter introduces the next component of treatment—therapeutic exposure to feared situations (facing the situations that make someone anxious). Therapeutic exposure is a powerful technique that helps with the three components of social anxiety: behavioral, cognitive, and physiological. How exposure works and why it is such a crucial step in overcoming social anxiety are reviewed. The chapter presents the steps involved in completing a first in-session exposure, including picking the situation, doing the cognitive restructuring, setting an achievable behavioral goal, entering the situation, and processing what was learned from the exposure. The first in-session exposure is a highlight of this therapy.
Classroom and Schoolwide, Universal Health-Promotion Strategies
Authors: Bradley-Klug Kathy L. , Lynn Courtney , Wesley Katherine L.
Published: November 2019

Prevention at the universal level is designed for all children and typically includes components of health promotion and risk reduction. To address the learning and wellness needs of all students, school-based and health professionals must concentrate on health promotion and systems-level coordination of services. This chapter focuses on specific classroom and schoolwide, universal health-promotion strategies that may be implemented in the educational setting. Topics covered include prevention and health-promotion programs that address healthy eating, physical activity and exercise, sleep hygiene, and mindfulness. Specific programs, strategies, and resources for each topic are presented. The chapter concludes with an overview of school-based consultation and implementation of universal health-promotion programs. Finally, the role of mental health professionals in providing services to students with chronic health conditions is addressed.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Fein Rachel , Goetz Amy , McKee Shannon
Published: November 2019

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders include a range of disorders that may affect children and adolescents with varying symptoms and levels of severity. This chapter presents a description of GI disorders common in childhood and the management or treatment approaches for each. The disorders reviewed include celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, constipation, and encopresis. For each of the major conditions, the chapter provides a review of difficulties that a child with the condition may encounter, including school-related issues, barriers to adherence, behavioral/emotional difficulties, and academic problems. Specific strategies for schools to implement when working with students with the conditions are provided, including approaches to assessment, intervention, and legal and ethical considerations. A series of handouts to assist with the strategies are included. Finally, the chapter concludes with a list of resources useful for school-based professionals working with students with GI conditions.
Pulmonary Disorders
Authors: Williford Desireé N. , Hynes Lisa , Durkin Kristine , Duncan Christina L.
Published: November 2019

Pulmonary disorders affect the functioning of the lungs. Two of the most common pulmonary disorders in children are asthma and cystic fibrosis, and for each of these two conditions, the chapter provides a review of the symptoms, treatment, and prognosis, as well as associated risk and protective factors, sociocultural and environmental considerations, and legal and policy-related concerns. Reviews of common school-related concerns and psychological comorbidities associated with each condition are presented, and the topics are illustrated by case examples. The chapter includes specific information strategies and recommendations for school-based professionals to collaborate with children, families, and medical providers to support youth with these conditions in the school setting. Also included are handouts with information about important considerations in working with students with asthma and cystic fibrosis and potential resources for school personnel, students, and their families.
Sleep Disorders
Authors: Perfect Michelle M. , Frye Sara S. , Sakakini Robin J.
Published: November 2019

Sleep is an essential human behavior and sleep difficulties in children can manifest with a range of different problems and symptoms. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the assessment and treatment of sleep and sleep-related disorders in children and adolescents, including insufficient sleep, insomnia, parasomnias, circadian rhythm disorders, and obstructive sleep apnea. The chapter also reviews implications of sleep difficulties on school functioning, including academic and social-emotional outcomes and comorbid behavioral health conditions. Strategies for identifying risk factors, assessing for sleep difficulties, and intervening when they occur are provided, with a specific focus on applications for school-based professionals. The chapter includes a list of resources for practitioners and parents, as well as handouts to assist with education about sleep disorders, monitoring sleep, and maintaining appropriate sleep hygiene.
Setting Goals and Tasks in the Working Alliance
Authors: Tryon Georgiana Shick
Published: November 2019

The author reviews skills for setting and developing attainable therapy goals and methods to achieve goal consensus. These goals should be determined in collaboration with the patients, should be in the patients’ best interest, and should address the patients’ problems. Once the therapist–patient dyad has established the goals of therapy, the therapist and client will need to collaborate on establishing the treatment tasks that will help patients achieve their goals. Finally, progress toward goals should be assessed and termination should be discussed from a goal perspective. Moreover, therapists should discuss plans for the future with their patients, including an invitation to return to treatment if the need were to arise, as well as possible referrals for additional help if necessary. The author presents clinical examples of how to develop goals and tasks in therapy.
Long-read sequencing based clinical metagenomics for the detection and confirmation of Pneumocystis jirovecii directly from clinical specimens: A paradigm shift in mycological diagnostics
Authors: Irinyi Laszlo , Hu Yiheng , Hoang Minh Thuy Vi , Pasic Lana , Halliday Catriona , Jayawardena Menuk , Basu Indira , McKinney Wendy , Morris Arthur J , Rathjen John , Stone Eric , Chen Sharon , Sorrell Tania C , Schwessinger Benjamin , Meyer Wieland
Published: November 2019

The advent of next generation sequencing technologies has enabled the characterization of the genetic content of entire communities of organisms, including those in clinical specimens, without prior culturing. The MinION from Oxford Nanopore Technologies offers real-time, direct sequencing of long DNA fragments directly from clinical samples. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of unbiased, genome-wide, long-read, shotgun sequencing using MinION to identify Pneumocystis jirovecii directly from respiratory tract specimens and to characterize the associated mycobiome. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a life-threatening fungal disease caused by P. jirovecii. Currently, the diagnosis of PCP relies on direct microscopic or real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination of respiratory tract specimens, as P. jirovecii cannot be cultured readily in vitro. P. jirovecii DNA was detected in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and induced sputum (IS) samples from three patients with confirmed PCP. Other fungi present in the associated mycobiome included known human pathogens (Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Pichia) as well as commensal species (Candida, Malassezia, Bipolaris). We have established optimized sample preparation conditions for the generation of high-quality data, curated databases, and data analysis tools, which are key to the application of long-read MinION sequencing leading to a fundamental new approach in fungal diagnostics.
The evolution of galaxy intrinsic alignments in the MassiveBlackII universe
Authors: Bhowmick Aklant K , Chen Yingzhang , Tenneti Ananth , Di Matteo Tiziana , Mandelbaum Rachel
Published: November 2019

We investigate the redshift evolution of the intrinsic alignments (IAs) of galaxies in the MassiveBlackII (MBII) simulation. We select galaxy samples above fixed subhalo mass cuts ($M_h\gt 10^{11,12,13}\,\mathrm{M}_{\odot }\, h^{-1}$) at z = 0.6 and trace their progenitors to z = 3 along their merger trees. Dark matter components of z = 0.6 galaxies are more spherical than their progenitors while stellar matter components tend to be less spherical than their progenitors. The distribution of the galaxy–subhalo misalignment angle peaks at ∼10 deg with a mild increase with time. The evolution of the ellipticity–direction (ED) correlation amplitude ω(r) of galaxies (which quantifies the tendency of galaxies to preferentially point towards surrounding matter overdensities) is governed by the evolution in the alignment of underlying dark matter (DM) subhaloes to the matter density of field, as well as the alignment between galaxies and their DM subhaloes. At scales $\sim 1~\mathrm{Mpc}\, h^{-1}$, the alignment between DM subhaloes and matter overdensity gets suppressed with time, whereas the alignment between galaxies and DM subhaloes is enhanced. These competing tendencies lead to a complex redshift evolution of ω(r) for galaxies at $\sim 1~\mathrm{Mpc}\, h^{-1}$. At scales $\gt 1~\mathrm{Mpc}\, h^{-1}$, alignment between DM subhaloes and matter overdensity does not evolve significantly; the evolution of the galaxy–subhalo misalignment therefore leads to an increase in ω(r) for galaxies by a factor of ∼4 from z = 3 to 0.6 at scales $\gt 1~\mathrm{Mpc}\, h^{-1}$. The balance between competing physical effects is scale dependent, leading to different conclusions at much smaller scales ($\sim 0.1~\mathrm{Mpc}\, h^{-1}$).
First discovery of trans-iron elements in a DAO-type white dwarf (BD−22°3467)
Authors: Löbling L , Maney M A , Rauch T , Quinet P , Gamrath S , Kruk J W , Werner K
Published: November 2019

We have identified 484 lines of the trans-iron elements (TIEs) Zn, Ga, Ge, Se, Br, Kr, Sr, Zr, Mo, In, Te, I, Xe, and Ba, for the first time in the ultraviolet spectrum of a DAO-type white dwarf (WD), namely BD−22°3467, surrounded by the ionized nebula Abell 35. Our TIE abundance determination shows extremely high overabundances of up to 5 dex – a similar effect is already known from hot, H-deficient (DO-type) WDs. In contrast to these where a pulse-driven convection zone has enriched the photosphere with TIEs during a final thermal pulse and radiative levitation has established the extreme TIE overabundances, here the extreme TIE overabundances are exclusively driven by radiative levitation on the initial stellar metallicity. The very low mass ($0.533^{+0.040}_{-0.025}\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$) of BD−22°3467 implies that a third dredge-up with enrichment of s-process elements in the photosphere did not occur in the asymptotic giant branch (AGB) precursor.
The Australian Calciphylaxis Registry: reporting clinical features and outcomes of patients with calciphylaxis
Authors: Ruderman Irene , Toussaint Nigel D , Hawley Carmel M , Krishnasamy Rathika , Pedagogos Eugenia , Lioufas Nicole , Elder Grahame J
Published: November 2019

Background

Calciphylaxis is a rare disease, predominantly affecting patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to progressive cutaneous calcification, necrotic ulceration and infection. Clinical registries have been established to better understand the risk factors, optimal treatments and disease outcomes of calciphylaxis.

Methods

We established a prospective, Internet-based clinical registry for the online notification of calciphylaxis cases in Australia. Seven institutions participated, with data recorded on patient characteristics, biochemical parameters, treatments and disease outcomes.

Results

Between 2014 and 2019, 47 cases of calciphylaxis were registered. The mean patient age was 66 ± 11 years and body mass index was 35 ± 9 kg/m2, with a higher proportion of females (51%). Eighty-seven percent of patients had end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), with 61% on hemodialysis or hemodiafiltration, with a median dialysis vintage of 4.8 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.7–7.4)] years. Five patients had CKD not requiring dialysis and two were kidney transplant recipients. Diabetes was present in 76% of patients and the cause of ESKD in 60%; 34% received vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) before diagnosis. The median parathyroid hormone level at diagnosis was 32 (IQR 14–50) pmol/L. The most common site of calciphylaxis was the lower limbs (63%), with 19% of patients having more than one area involved. Ten patients (22%) had a resolution of calciphylaxis and 25 died, with 50% mortality at a median of 1.6 (IQR 0.2–2.5) years from diagnosis.

Conclusions

The Australian Calciphylaxis Registry highlights risk factors for calciphylaxis, including diabetes, obesity and VKA use. Resolution of calciphylaxis is uncommon despite multimodal therapy and mortality from calciphylaxis in the first year following diagnosis remains high.
A synthetic approach reveals a highly sensitive maize auxin response circuit
Authors: Ramos Báez Román , Buckley Yuli , Yu Han , Chen Zongliang , Gallavotti Andrea , Nemhauser Jennifer , Moss Britney L
Published: November 2019

Auxin plays a key role across all land plants in growth and developmental processes. Although auxin signaling function has diverged and expanded, differences in the molecular functions of signaling components have largely been characterized in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we used the Auxin Response Circuit recapitulated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ARCSc) system to functionally annotate maize auxin signaling components, focusing on genes expressed during development of ear and tassel inflorescences. All 16 maize Auxin (Aux)/Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) repressor proteins are degraded in response to auxin, with rates that depended on both receptor and repressor identity. When fused to the maize TOPLESS (TPL) homolog RAMOSA1 ENHANCER LOCUS2 (REL2), maize Aux/IAAs were able to repress AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR (ARF) transcriptional activity. A complete auxin response circuit comprised of all maize components, including ZmAFB2/3 b1 maize AUXIN SIGNALING F-BOX (AFB) receptor, was found to be fully functional. The ZmAFB2/3 b1 auxin receptor was found to be more sensitive to hormone than AtAFB2 and allowed for rapid circuit activation upon auxin addition. These results validate the conserved role of predicted auxin response genes in maize, as well as provide evidence that a synthetic approach can facilitate broader comparative studies across the wide range of species with sequenced genomes.
Rapid acquisition of near optimal stopping using Bayesian by-products
Authors: Calder-Travis Joshua , Slade Emma
Published: November 2019

Prior to any decision, animals (including humans) must stop deliberating. Both accumulating evidence for too little or too long can be costly. In contrast to accounts of decision making, accounts of stopping do not typically claim that animals use Bayesian posteriors. Considering a generic perceptual decision making task we show that, under approximation, only two variables are relevant to the question of when to stop evidence accumulation; time and the maximum posterior probability. We explored the rate at which stopping rules are learned using deep neural networks as model learners. A network which only used time and the maximum posterior probability learned faster than any other network considered. Therefore, such an approach may be highly adaptive, and animals may be able to reuse the same neural machinery they use for decisions for stopping. These results suggest that Bayesian inference may be even more important for animals than previously thought.
Approximating the coalescent under facultative sex
Authors: Hartfield Matthew
Published: November 2019

Genome studies of facultative sexual species, which can either reproduce sexually or asexually, are providing insight into the evolutionary consequences of mixed reproductive modes. It is currently unclear to what extent the evolutionary history of facultative sexuals’ genomes can be approximated by the standard coalescent, and if a coalescent effective population sizeNeexists. Here, I determine if and when these approximations can be made. When sex is frequent (occurring at a frequency much greater than 1/Nper reproduction per generation, forNthe actual population size), the underlying genealogy can be approximated by the standard coalescent, with a coalescentNe≈N. When sex is very rare (at frequency much lower than 1/N), approximations for the pairwise coalescent time can be obtained, which is strongly influenced by the frequencies of sex and mitotic gene conversion, rather thanN. However, these terms do not translate into a coalescentNe. These results are used to discuss the best sampling strategies for investigating the evolutionary history of facultative sexual species.
Tempora: cell trajectory inference using time-series single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Tran Thinh N. , Bader Gary D.
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACT

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) can map cell types, states and transitions during dynamic biological processes such as development and regeneration. Many trajectory inference methods have been developed to order cells by their progression through a dynamic process. However, when time series data is available, these methods do not consider the available time information when ordering cells and are instead designed to work only on a single scRNAseq data snapshot. We present Tempora, a novel cell trajectory inference method that orders cells using time information from time-series scRNAseq data. In performance comparison tests, Tempora accurately inferred developmental lineages in human skeletal myoblast differentiation and murine cerebral cortex development, beating state of the art methods. Tempora uses biological pathway information to help identify cell type relationships and can identify important time-dependent pathways to help interpret the inferred trajectory. Our results demonstrate the utility of time information to supervise trajectory inference for scRNA-seq based analysis.
Comprehensive analysis of structural variants in breast cancer genomes using single molecule sequencing
Authors: Aganezov Sergey , Goodwin Sara , Sherman Rachel , Sedlazeck Fritz J. , Arun Gayatri , Bhatia Sonam , Lee Isac , Kirsche Melanie , Wappel Robert , Kramer Melissa , Kostroff Karen , Spector David L. , Timp Winston , Richard McCombie W. , Schatz Michael C.
Published: November 2019

Improved identification of structural variants (SVs) in cancer can lead to more targeted and effective treatment options as well as advance our basic understanding of disease progression. We performed whole genome sequencing of the SKBR3 breast cancer cell-line and patient-derived tumor and normal organoids from two breast cancer patients using 10X/Illumina, PacBio, and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. We then inferred SVs and large-scale allele-specific copy number variants (CNVs) using an ensemble of methods. Our findings demonstrate that long-read sequencing allows for substantially more accurate and sensitive SV detection, with between 90% and 95% of variants supported by each long-read technology also supported by the other. We also report high accuracy for long-reads even at relatively low coverage (25x-30x). Furthermore, we inferred karyotypes from these data using our enhanced RCK algorithm to present a more accurate representation of the mutated cancer genomes, and find hundreds of variants affecting known cancer-related genes detectable only through long-read sequencing. These findings highlight the need for long-read sequencing of cancer genomes for the precise analysis of their genetic instability.
Bid/no-bid decision factors for Chinese international contractors in international construction projects
Authors: Li Guanghua , Chen Chuan , Zhang Guomin , Martek Igor
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Factors affecting bid/no-bid decisions of international projects are more complex than those of domestic projects. The purpose of this paper is to identify and rank decision factors considered by variously sized Chinese international contractors (CICs) and categorize those groups of factors important to experienced practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of factors identified by a literature review is conducted based on data derived from questionnaire results received from 119 CIC project and bidding managers. The relative importance of factors is measured by mean value and standard deviation. The discrepancy in rank and importance value perceived by variously sized CICs are explored by ranking disparity analysis, non-parametric test and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient test. Finally, factor analysis is used to categorize the underlying groups of factors considered by CICs.

Findings

In sum, 41 factors are identified through the literature review as having an impact on the bid decision. Significant disparities in ranking and importance are found in several factors, which partially affect the consistency of the ranking of factors perceived between large and small-medium CICs. Ultimately, nine major factors are identified as impacting the bidding decision, with “contractor’s capability” and “country risk of the host country,” being the most important.

Research limitations/implications

The weight of a factor considered in a decision varies across contractors as a function of contractor size. Whether using models or subjective judgment in making decisions, it is beneficial to fully understand the main groups of factors influencing the decision. Vulnerability to country risk emerges as the first criterion accessed in the bid decision.

Originality/value

A comprehensive set of factors is established for CICs, including both general factors common to domestic projects, and international factors unique to international projects. All factors are grouped by inferential analysis from the perspective of contractors, which reveals the underlying mechanism of the bid decision-making process. While the data were collected from CICs, the methodology in exploring factors, along with implications, is determined to be applicable internationally.
Dynamic capabilities in Italian leading SMEs adopting industry 4.0
Authors: Garbellano Salvatore , Da Veiga Maria do Rosário
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on how Industry 4.0 technology transfer has been implemented by leading Italian innovative small, and medium-size companies (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory-descriptive study uses qualitative methods for collecting primary data (interviews and ethnographic observation) and secondary data (surveys, press news and websites).

Findings

The paper contributes to the understanding of what building dynamic capabilities (DC) is, and to clarify pivotal roles, functions and dynamics of the entrepreneur and the executive team.

Research limitations/implications

The results that emerged from the present research unveil a great potential for further development. The study can be confirmed and/or extended by replicating it within other economic contexts such as the European Union allowing then comparative studies amongst regions and countries.

Practical implications

In Italian leading SMEs an “augmented management” emerged. The study shows that digital technologies are enriching not only “what” and “how” management performs its duties but also its role: “orchestration” – a key term in DC theory – has been enhanced by new meanings.

Social implications

The study points out the relevance of an inclusive approach to Industry 4.0 to leverage the collective intelligence of the company.

Originality/value

Implementing Industry 4.0 has required a renewal of the leadership executive team: new young executives coming from other companies and sons/daughters of the entrepreneurs have provided methodologies and commitment to foster the digital transformation.
Decolonising the University: The Origins and Meaning of a Movement
Authors: Pimblott Kerry
Published: November 2019

This article responds to the contemporary debates in UK higher education about the need to ‘decolonise the curriculum’, with particular attention to the implications for the discipline of history. The author positions these important debates as one outcome of a transnational movement led by students of colour whose grievances reach into and beyond the classroom. The first part of the article examines the origins of this movement identifying some important antecedents as well as the broader political and socio‐economic forces that propelled its rise in 2015. There then follows an examination of the movement's multidimensional critique of the university sector, which includes—but is not limited to—the call to ‘decolonise the curriculum', before considering potential implications for academic workers labouring in the discipline of history.
Consumer Acceptance of Reduced Sodium Potato Chips and Puffed Rice: How Does Ingredient Information and Education Influence Liking?
Authors: Buechler Aimee E. , Lee Soo‐Yeun
Published: November 2019

Approximately 90% of Americans consume more than the 2,300 mg of sodium recommended daily; therefore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recommended short‐ and long‐term sodium reduction goals in food products. Reduced sodium products have not been previously liked, so flavor enhancers may increase their palatability. The objective of this research was to compare the acceptability of FDA‐recommended short‐ and long‐term sodium reduction goals for potato chips (18 and 51% reduction) and puffed rice (20 and 57% reduction) seasoned with and without monosodium glutamate (MSG) and disodium inosinate and guanylate (I + G) combinations across three conditions: blind tasting, ingredient information, and ingredient information with educational phrase of the need for sodium reduction and safety of flavor enhancers. Data were collected for 83 potato chip panelists and 81 puffed rice panelists. A significant difference was seen across the samples with different levels of sodium and flavor enhancers for potato chips (P < 0.01) and puffed rice (P < 0.001). For potato chips, ingredient information increased the acceptance of samples with flavor enhancers. Education increased the liking of samples with short‐ and long‐term sodium reduction and samples that combined only salt and MSG. For puffed rice, ingredient information increased acceptance except the long‐term reduced sodium samples with MSG and I + G. Education increased the liking of all samples with MSG and I + G. The combination of flavor enhancers with consumer education increased the acceptance of reduced sodium products. Future research on specific sensory differences across samples that influence acceptability will be valuable for industrial application of the findings.

Practical Application

The findings of our study suggest the overall liking of reduced sodium potato chip and puffed rice samples could be improved with the addition of flavor enhancers. Additionally, reduced sodium product liking was maintained or improved when paired with ingredient labeling and sodium reduction education. The acceptance of reduced sodium products would lead to the decreased risk of hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes for Americans.
Alcohol Intake in Early Pregnancy and Risk of Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children Up to 19 Years of Age: A Cohort Study
Authors: Weile Louise Katrine Kjær , Wu Chunsen , Hegaard Hanne Kristine , Kesmodel Ulrik Schiøler , Henriksen Tine Brink , Nohr Ellen Aagaard
Published: November 2019

Background

Little is known about maternal alcohol intake in early pregnancy and the risk of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children beyond 5 years of age. We examined the association between alcohol binge drinking and weekly alcohol intake in early pregnancy and the risk of ADHD in children followed from birth to 19 years of age.

Methods

We included 48,072 children born between 1998 and 2012, whose mothers participated in the Aarhus Birth Cohort. Maternal alcohol intake was obtained from a self‐administered questionnaire completed in early pregnancy. ADHD diagnoses were retrieved from the Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register and the Danish National Patient Register. Crude hazard ratio and adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of ADHD according to alcohol binge drinking or weekly intake of alcohol were calculated using the Cox regression.

Results

Compared to children of women with no binge drinking episodes, we observed an aHR for ADHD of 0.91 (95% CI 0.76 to 1.08), 0.73 (95% CI 0.56 to 0.96), and 0.77 (95% CI 0.57 to 1.06) among children of women reporting 1, 2, and 3 or more binge drinking episodes, respectively. Among children of women drinking <1 drink per week, 1 drink per week, 2 drinks per week, and 3 or more drinks per week, we observed an aHR for ADHD of 0.87 (95% CI 0.74 to 1.03), 0.63 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.98), 1.30 (95% CI 0.89 to 1.92), and 0.78 (95% CI 0.38 to 1.59), respectively, when compared to children of women not drinking on a weekly basis.

Conclusion

We found no evidence that binge drinking or low alcohol intake in early pregnancy was associated with the risk of ADHD in children.
Neurotensin receptor 1 deletion decreases methamphetamine self‐administration and the associated reduction in dopamine cell firing
Authors: Dominguez‐Lopez Sergio , Sharma Ramaswamy , Beckstead Michael J.
Published: November 2019

We previously reported that a non‐selective pharmacological blockade of neurotensin receptors in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) decreases methamphetamine (METH) self‐administration in mice. Here, we explored the consequences of genetic deletion of neurotensin receptor 1 (NtsR1) on METH self‐administration and VTA dopamine neuron firing activity. We implanted mice with an indwelling jugular catheter and trained them to nose‐poke for intravenous infusions of METH. Mice with NtsR1 deletion (KO) acquired self‐administration similar to wildtype (WT) and heterozygous (HET) littermates. However, in NtsR1 KO and HET mice, METH intake and motivated METH seeking decreased when the response requirement was increased to a fixed ratio 3 and when mice were tested on a progressive ratio protocol. After completion of METH self‐administration, single cell in vivo extracellular recordings of dopamine firing activity in the VTA were obtained in anesthetized mice. Non‐bursting dopamine neurons from KO mice fired at slower rates than those from WT mice, supporting an excitatory role for NtsR1 on VTA dopamine neuronal activity. In WT mice, a history of METH self‐administration decreased dopamine cell firing frequency compared with cells from drug‐naïve controls. NtsR1 KO and HET mice did not exhibit this decline in dopamine cell firing activity after METH experience. We also observed an increase in population activity following METH self‐administration that was strongest in the WT group. Our results suggest a role for NtsR1 in METH‐seeking behavior and indicate that ablation of NtsR1 prevents the detrimental effects of prolonged METH self‐administration on VTA dopamine cell firing frequency.