bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Foster Care Agencies Discriminate Against Gay Couples? Evidence from a Correspondence Study
Authors: Mackenzie‐Liu Mattie , Schwegman David J. , Lopoo Leonard M.
Published: July 2020

There has been considerable recent debate regarding proposed policies that would allow foster care administrators to discriminate on the basis of the sexual orientation of the foster parent. To date, however, we know very little about the level of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in the foster care system. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first empirical investigation to ask whether foster care agencies, the public, and nonprofit firms that facilitate foster care placements respond similarly to e‐mails sent by fictitious same‐sex and heterosexual couples who inquire about becoming foster parents. Our results suggest that, while foster care agencies respond at somewhat similar rates to gay male couples, gay female couples, and heterosexual couples, responses sent to gay males are of lower quality. Gay males receive much shorter responses that take longer to receive. Responses to gay male couples are also less likely to include essential information about the process of becoming a foster parent, such as details about informational sessions or being given an application. We do not find any evidence of differential treatment towards same‐sex female couples.
Phosphonium‐based polythiophene conjugated polyelectrolytes with different surfactant counterions: thermal properties, self‐assembly and photovoltaic performances
Authors: Chevrier Michèle , Kesters Jurgen , Houston Judith E , Van den Brande Niko , Chambon Sylvain , Richeter Sébastien , Van Mele Bruno , Arnold Thomas , Mehdi Ahmad , Lazzaroni Roberto , Dubois Philippe , Evans Rachel C , Maes Wouter , Clément Sébastien
Published: July 2020

Phosphonium‐based polythiophene conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) with three different counterions (dodecylsulfate, octylsulfate and perfluorooctane sulfonate) are synthesized to determine how the nature of the counterion affects the thermal properties, the self‐assembly in thin films and the performance as the cathode interfacial layer in polymer solar cells (PSCs). The counterion has a significant effect on the thermal properties of the CPEs, affecting both their glass transition and crystalline behaviour. Grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering studies also indicate that changing the nature of the counterion influences the microstructural organization in thin films (face‐on versus edge‐on orientation). The affinity of the CPEs with the underlying photoactive layer in PSCs is highly correlated with the counterion species. Finally, in addition to an increase of the power conversion efficiency of ca 15% when using these CPEs as cathode interfacial layers in PSCs, a higher device stability is noted, compared to a reference device with a calcium interlayer. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Wirelessly triggered bioactive molecule delivery from degradable electroactive polymer films
Authors: Ashton Mark D , Appen Isabel C , Firlak Melike , Stanhope Naomi E , Schmidt Christine E , Eisenstadt William R , Hur Byul , Hardy John G
Published: July 2020

The development of stimuli‐responsive drug delivery systems offers significant opportunities for innovations in industry. It is possible to produce polymer‐based drug delivery devices enabling spatiotemporal control of the release of the drug triggered by an electrical stimulus. Here we describe the development of a wireless controller for drug delivery from conductive/electroactive polymer‐based biomaterials and demonstrate its function in vitro. The wireless polymer conduction controller device uses very low power, operating at 2.4 GHz, and has a supply voltage controller circuit which controls electrical stimulation voltage levels. The computer graphical user interface program communicates with the controller device, and it receives device information, device status and temperature data from the controller device. The prototype of the wireless controller system can trigger the delivery of a drug, dexamethasone phosphate, from a matrix of degradable electroactive polymers. Furthermore, we introduce the application of in silico toxicity screening as a potentially useful method to facilitate the design of non‐toxic degradable electroactive polymers for a multitude of biotechnological applications, addressing one of the key commercial challenges to biomaterial development, in accordance with ‘safe by design’ principles. © 2020 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Zonal regulation of collagen‐type proteins and posttranslational modifications in prostatic benign and cancer tissues by imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: Angel Peggi M. , Spruill Laura , Jefferson Melanie , Bethard Jennifer R. , Ball Lauren E. , Hughes‐Halbert Chanita , Drake Richard R.
Published: July 2020

Background

The emergence of reactive stroma is a hallmark of prostate cancer (PCa) progression and a potential source for prognostic and diagnostic markers of PCa. Collagen is a main component of reactive stroma and changes systematically and quantitatively to reflect the course of PCa, yet has remained undefined due to a lack of tools that can define collagen protein structure. Here we use a novel collagen‐targeting proteomics approach to investigate zonal regulation of collagen‐type proteins in PCa prostatectomies.

Methods

Prostatectomies from nine patients were divided into zones containing 0%, 5%, 20%, 70% to 80% glandular tissue and 0%, 5%, 25%, 70% by mass of PCa tumor following the McNeal model. Tissue sections from zones were graded by a pathologist for Gleason score, percent tumor present, percent prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and/or inflammation (INF). High‐resolution accurate mass collagen targeting proteomics was done on a select subset of tissue sections from patient‐matched tumor or nontumor zones. Imaging mass spectrometry was used to investigate collagen‐type regulation corresponding to pathologist‐defined regions.

Results

Complex collagen proteomes were detected from all zones. COL17A and COL27A increased in zones of INF compared with zones with tumor present. COL3A1, COL4A5, and COL8A2 consistently increased in zones with tumor content, independent of tumor size. Collagen hydroxylation of proline (HYP) was altered in tumor zones compared with zones with INF and no tumor. COL3A1 and COL5A1 showed significant changes in HYP peptide ratios within tumor compared with zones of INF (2.59 ± 0.29, P value: .015; 3.75 ± 0.96 P value .036, respectively). By imaging mass spectrometry COL3A1 showed defined localization and regulation to tumor pathology. COL1A1 and COL1A2 showed gradient regulation corresponding to PCa pathology across zones. Pathologist‐defined tumor regions showed significant increases in COL1A1 HYP modifications compared with COL1A2 HYP modifications. Certain COL1A1 and COL1A2 peptides could discriminate between pathologist‐defined tumor and inflammatory regions.

Conclusions

Site‐specific posttranslational regulation of collagen structure by proline hydroxylation may be involved in reactive stroma associated with PCa progression. Translational and posttranslational regulation of collagen protein structure has potential for new markers to understand PCa progression and outcomes.
Deal or no deal on water‐saving program? Exploring the optimal interval for government subsidies and internal incentives
Authors: Chen Zhisong , Cheung Keith C. K.
Published: July 2020

Water resources can be soon exhausted with the overdeveloped industrialization. High‐water‐consumption (HWC) industries and their supply chains are trying to reduce water consumption in the production process. These water‐saving behaviors and effects may be subsidized by the government to pursue the goal of social welfare maximization (SWM). In this context, to investigate when to bring in government subsidy for any water‐saving behaviors and effects to maximize the social welfare, six game‐theoretical decision models for the water‐saving supply chain under three scenarios are developed, analyzed, and compared, and the corresponding numerical and sensitivity analyses of water‐saving case in the papermaking industry are conducted and compared; on this basis, the corresponding policy implications and managerial insights are discussed and summarized in this article. The research results indicate that the supply chain would only have internal incentive to implement water‐saving management under low‐ or medium‐cost case, while the government would only have external incentive to subsidize water‐saving behaviors and effects under medium‐cost case. Besides, the coordination strategy outperforms the equilibrium strategy regarding the water‐saving effects, operational performances, social welfare, consumer surplus, and positive externality for the water‐saving supply chain under all three scenarios. Furthermore, a kind of niche targeting subsidy policy based on actual water‐saving effect that the government only subsidizes the water‐saving supply chain operating under coordination strategy with medium water‐saving cost structure can achieve social welfare maximization, operational performance improvement, and positive externality enhancement.

Practitioner points

The optimal interval for internal incentives of water‐saving is explored.

The optimal interval for government subsidies of water‐saving is investigated.

The optimal operational strategy for the water‐saving supply chain is examined.
A birds'‐eye view of the activity and specificity of the mRNA m6A methyltransferase complex
Authors: Garcias Morales David , Reyes José L.
Published: July 2020

Appropriate control of the transcriptome is essential to regulate different aspects of gene expression during development and in response to environmental stimuli. Fast accumulating reports are recognizing and functionally characterizing several types of modifications across transcripts, which have created a new field of RNA study named epitranscriptomics. The most abundant modification found in messenger RNA (mRNA) is N6‐methyladenosine (m6A). m6A addition is achieved by a large methyltransferase complex (MTC). The m6A‐MTC is composed of the methyltransferases METTL3 and METTL14 as the catalytic core, and several protein factors necessary for its correct catalysis, which include WTAP, RBM15, VIRMA, HAKAI, and ZC3H13. To fully appreciate the relevance of this modification, it is important to dissect the basis for the MTC function as well as to define its interaction with other cellular partners. Here, we summarize previous and recent knowledge on these issues to provide a guide for future research and put forward ideas on the flexibility and specificity of this process.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Recognition
The forgotten joint score-12 is a valid and responsive outcome tool for measuring success following hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome
Authors: Robinson Patrick G. , Rankin C. S. , Murray I. R. , Maempel J. F. , Gaston P. , Hamilton D. F.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The forgotten joint score-12 (FJS-12) is an outcome questionnaire designed to evaluate joint awareness. The responsiveness and validity of the English language version of the FJS-12 in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is not known.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for a diagnosis of FAI were prospectively followed up over a 1 year period. Patients completed preoperative and postoperative FJS-12, EuroQol 5 Dimension (EQ-5D-5L), and the 12-item international hip outcome tool (iHOT-12). We evaluated construct validity with Spearman correlation coefficients for the FJS-12, and responsiveness by way of effect size and ceiling effects.

Results

Forty-six patients underwent hip arthroscopy, of which 42 (91%) completed post-operative PROMs at 1 year follow-up. Construct validity was strong with the iHOT-12 (r = 0.87) and also the EQ-5D-5L (r = 0.83). The median postoperative FJS score was 50.2 (IQR 64). The mean change in score for the FJS-12 was 31 points (SD 31) (p < 0.001), with an effect size (Cohen’s d) of 1.16. Preoperatively, three patients scored the lowest possible value resulting in a floor effect of 7.1%. Similarly, only three patients (7.1%) scored the best possible score post-operatively.

Conclusion

This is the first evaluation of the joint awareness concept in the English language version of the FJS-12 following hip arthroscopy for FAI. The FJS-12 is a valid and responsive tool for the assessment of this cohort of patients.

Level of evidence

II.
Risk Predictors of Prolonged Hypotension After Open Surgery for Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas
Authors: Kong Hao , Li Nan , Tian Jie , Li Xue‐Ying
Published: July 2020

Background

Prolonged hypotension is a common complication after surgery for pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs). It places patients at an increased risk of major morbidities and even death. The objective of the study was to investigate the risk predictors of prolonged hypotension in patients undergoing open surgery for PPGLs.

Methods

The present study adopted a retrospective, single‐center design. Patients who underwent open surgery for PPGLs were enrolled from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2018, at Peking University First Hospital. Perioperative variables were screened from patients’ electronic medical records. Prolonged hypotension was defined as hypotension that required continuous catecholamine support for at least 30 min to maintain a systolic blood pressure of > 90 mmHg after surgery.

Results

A total of 162 patients were included in the study. Fifty‐two patients (31.1%) had prolonged hypotension with a median vasopressor support duration of 14 h (IQR = 4–30 h). Body mass index <24 kg/m2 (OR = 3.015, 95% CI 1.217–7.467; P = 0.017), larger tumor size (OR = 1.146, 95% CI 1.014–1.295; P = 0.029), and higher plasma norepinephrine concentration (OR = 1.053, 95% CI 1.019–1.087; P = 0.002) were associated with prolonged hypotension. Patients with prolonged hypotension had a higher incidence of complication, were more frequently admitted to the intensive care unit, underwent mechanical ventilation for a longer duration, and had a longer postoperative hospital stay when compared to those without.

Conclusion

Body mass index < 24 kg/m2, larger tumor size, and higher plasma norepinephrine concentration are independent risk predictors of prolonged hypotension in patients undergoing open surgery for PPGLs.
Propagation of spontaneous electrical activity in the ex vivo human uterus
Authors: Kuijsters Nienke P.M. , Sammali Federica , Ye Xin , Blank Celine , Xu Lin , Mischi Massimo , Schoot Benedictus C. , Rabotti Chiara
Published: July 2020

Contractions of the non-pregnant uterus play a key role in fertility. Yet, the electrophysiology underlying these contractions is poorly understood. In this paper, we investigate the presence of uterine electrical activity and characterize its propagation in unstimulated ex vivo human uteri. Multichannel electrohysterographic measurements were performed in five freshly resected human uteri starting immediately after hysterectomy. Using an electrode grid externally and an electrode array internally, measurements were performed up to 24 h after hysterectomy and compared with control. Up to 2 h after hysterectomy, we measured biopotentials in all included uteri. The median root mean squared (RMS) values of the external measurements ranged between 3.95 μV (interquartile range (IQR) 2.41–14.18 μV) and 39.4 μV (interquartile range (IQR) 10.84–105.64 μV) and were all significantly higher than control (median RMS of 1.69 μV, IQR 1.13–3.11 μV), consisting of chicken breast meat. The RMS values decreased significantly over time. After 24 h, the median RMS (1.27 μV, IQR 0.86–3.04 μV) was comparable with the control (1.69 μV, IQR 1.13–3.11 μV, p = 0.125). The internal measurements showed a comparable pattern over time, but overall lower amplitude. The measured biopotentials propagated over the uterine surface, following both a plane-wave as well as an erratic pattern. No clear pacemaker location nor a preferred propagation direction could be identified. These results show that ex vivo uteri can spontaneously generate propagating biopotentials and provide novel insight contributing to improving our understanding of the electrophysiology of the human non-pregnant uterus.
Adaptive differential evolution with a new joint parameter adaptation method
Authors: Leon Miguel , Xiong Ning
Published: July 2020

Differential evolution (DE) is a population-based metaheuristic algorithm that has been proved powerful in solving a wide range of real-parameter optimization tasks. However, the selection of the mutation strategy and control parameters in DE is problem dependent, and inappropriate specification of them will lead to poor performance of the algorithm such as slow convergence and early stagnation in a local optimum. This paper proposes a new method termed as Joint Adaptation of Parameters in DE (JAPDE). The key idea lies in dynamically updating the selection probabilities for a complete set of pairs of parameter generating functions based on feedback information acquired during the search by DE. Further, for mutation strategy adaptation, the Rank-Based Adaptation (RAM) method is utilized to facilitate the learning of multiple probability distributions, each of which corresponds to an interval of fitness ranks of individuals in the population. The coupling of RAM with JAPDE results in the new RAM-JAPDE algorithm that enables simultaneous adaptation of the selection probabilities for pairs of control parameters and mutation strategies in DE. The merit of RAM-JAPDE has been evaluated on the benchmark test suit proposed in CEC2014 in comparison to many well-known DE algorithms. The results of experiments demonstrate that the proposed RAM-JAPDE algorithm outperforms or is competitive to the other related DE variants that perform mutation strategy and control parameter adaptation, respectively.
Review 2: Primary graft dysfunction after lung transplant—pathophysiology, clinical considerations and therapeutic targets
Authors: Jin Zhaosheng , Suen Ka Chun , Wang Zhiping , Ma Daqing
Published: July 2020

Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) is one of the most common complications in the early postoperative period and is the most common cause of death in the first postoperative month. The underlying pathophysiology is thought to be the ischaemia–reperfusion injury that occurs during the storage and reperfusion of the lung engraftment; this triggers a cascade of pathological changes, which result in pulmonary vascular dysfunction and loss of the normal alveolar architecture. There are a number of surgical and anaesthetic factors which may be related to the development of PGD. To date, although treatment options for PGD are limited, there are several promising experimental therapeutic targets. In this review, we will discuss the pathophysiology, clinical management and potential therapeutic targets of PGD.
Preparing for the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: creation and implementation of new recommendations
Authors: Conrad David , Hoffmann Patrick , Berwanger Ulrich , Hüppe Tobias , Volk Thomas , Fink Tobias
Published: July 2020

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in 2020, departments of anesthesiology worldwide have encountered new and unique challenges. In this short communication, we present and assess our recommendations for orotracheal intubation, a frequent high-risk procedure. We will point out that interdisciplinary cooperation with “non-patient care” departments like the Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene tremendously helped us in creating this and other new, clear standards for anesthesiological procedures. Moreover, to reliably implement our newly created measures, we distributed incisive posters and organized comprehensive training sessions. Eventually, we summarize and analyze the occurring problems of our suggestions for intubation during their realization.
Modelling Heat Loss Effects in the Large Eddy Simulation of a Lean Swirl-Stabilised Flame
Authors: Massey James C. , Chen Zhi X. , Swaminathan Nedunchezhian
Published: July 2020

The flame in a gas turbine model combustor close to blow-off is studied using large eddy simulation with the objective of investigating the sensitivity of including different heat loss effects within the modelling. A presumed joint probability density function approach based on the mixture fraction and progress variable with unstrained flamelets is used. The normalised enthalpy is included in the probability density function to account for heat loss within the flame. Two simulations are presented that use fixed temperature boundary conditions, and use adiabatic and non-adiabatic formulations of the combustion model. The results are compared against the previous fully adiabatic case and experimental data. The statistics for the simulations are similar to the results obtained from the fully adiabatic case. Improved statistics are obtained for the temperature in the near-wall regions. The non-adiabatic flamelet case shows the average reaction rate values at the flame root are approximately 50% smaller in comparison to the adiabatic flamelet cases. This causes the lift-off height to be overestimated. The time series of the lift-off height and the volume integrated heat release rate show that including non-adiabatic flamelets causes the flame to be highly unstable. A higher enthalpy deficit is seen in the near-field regions when the flame root is not present and experiencing some lift-off, suggesting that the flame is more dynamic when including heat loss.
The Estimation of Depth to Basement Under Sedimentary Basins from Gravity Data: Review of Approaches and the ITRESC Method, with an Application to the Yucca Flat Basin (Nevada)
Authors: Florio Giovanni
Published: July 2020

This paper reviews different approaches to the problem of finding the shape of the basement buried under sedimentary basins from gravity data and explores the applicability of a recently proposed method to a well-constrained real case, comparing the results obtained with the models computed using a variety of techniques. Many gravity inversion techniques to estimate the depth to basement based on rather different approaches have been proposed. As is well known, the interpretation of gravity data requires certain assumptions about the source, aimed at constraining the solution of an ambiguous problem. The different approaches imply different kinds of solutions, namely a density contrast distribution at depth, or a grid defining the depth to basement in the entire area of study or several single depth estimates. Each approach has its own advantages and weaknesses. In this context, special attention is given to the ITerative RESCaling method (ITRESC), which has been recently proposed. In this method, there is no need to assume a density function, which is estimated by a data-driven procedure and then used to generate a grid of the depth to basement. This technique is based on the depth–gravity relation plot, illustrating the link between the depth to basement, known at some control points (e.g., boreholes or interpretation of other geophysical data), and the values of the residual gravity anomaly. An important feature of the ITRESC method is that borehole control points are used globally rather than locally, providing constraints for all parts of the model. The main features of this innovative method are illustrated and evaluated by its application to the gravity anomalies of the Yucca Flat basin (Nevada). The results are compared with models obtained by previous gravity interpretations and by the processing of other geological and geophysical data.
Sex/Gender Differences in Camouflaging in Children and Adolescents with Autism
Authors: Wood-Downie Henry , Wong Bonnie , Kovshoff Hanna , Mandy William , Hull Laura , Hadwin Julie A.
Published: July 2020

This study investigated sex/gender differences in camouflaging with children and adolescents (N = 84) with and without an autism diagnosis/increased levels of autistic traits using two conceptualisations/operationalisations of camouflaging. A significant group-by-gender interaction using ANCOVA, with the covariate of verbal IQ, reflected similar levels of social reciprocity in autistic and neurotypical females, whereas autistic males had lower reciprocity than neurotypical males. Autistic females also had higher reciprocity than autistic males, despite similar levels of autistic traits (behavioural camouflaging). Additionally, autistic males and females had similar theory of mind skills, despite females having increased reciprocity (compensatory camouflaging). These findings provide evidence of increased camouflaging in autistic females, which may contribute to delay in the recognition of difficulties and provision of support.
Thermodynamic model and Raman spectra of MgO–P2O5 glasses
Authors: Hruška Branislav , Dagupati Rajesh , Chromčíková Mária , Nowicka Aleksandra , Macháček Jan , Liška Marek , Munoz Francisco
Published: July 2020

The structure of binary glassesxMgO·(1−x)P2O5(x = 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, and 0.55) was studied by thermodynamic model (TDM) of Shakhmatkin and Vedishcheva (SV) and Raman spectroscopy. In the TDM, six following system components were considered: MgO (M), P2O5(P), MgO·2P2O5(MP2), MgO·P2O5(MP), 2MgO·P2O5(M2P), 3MgO·P2O5(M3P). The principal component analysis (PCA) of experimental Raman spectra resulted in three independent components. The baseline subtracted and thermally corrected Raman spectra were analyzed by the multivariate curve analysis (MCR) for three components. The MCR resulted in the Raman spectra and relative abundance of each component. The experimental spectra were reproduced by the MCR on the level of 99.9%. Correlation analysis attributed the MCR components to M2P, MP, and MP2. Then the Malfait’s decomposition was performed based on the TDM-SV equilibrium molar amounts of system components (MP2, MP, and M2P) resulting in partial Raman spectra (PRS). Normalized MCR loadings coincide with normalized PRS. Adjusted scores were reproduced with good accuracy equilibrium molar amounts of system components.
Assessing Stress in Pregnancy and Postpartum: Comparing Measures
Authors: Štěpáníková Irena , Baker Elizabeth , Oates Gabriela , Bienertova-Vasku Julie , Klánová Jana
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Measuring early-life psychosocial stress is complicated by methodological challenges. This paper compares three survey instruments for the assessment of life in pregnancy/postpartum and investigates the effects of the timing of early-life stress for emotional/behavioral difficulties (EBD) of offspring during mid/late childhood and adolescence.

Methods

Observational data were obtained from the European Longitudinal Cohort Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ELSPAC-CZ), which included 4811 pregnancies in two Czech metropolitan areas. We used data collected between 1991 and 2010 at 20 weeks of pregnancy (T1), after delivery (T2), at 6 months postpartum (T3), and at child’s age of 7 years (T4), 11 years (T5), 15 years (T6), and 18 years (T7). Life stress was assessed with (1) the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), (2) a stressful life events (SLE) count based on 42-item inventory, and (3) the SLE measure weighted by perceived stressfulness (PS). Each stress measure was administered at T1, T2, and T3. Child’s EBD were assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at T4, T5, T6, and T7.

Results

Each stress measure independently predicted long-term EBD. The best data fit was obtained in a model combining EPDS and SLE. Effect sizes for SLEs decreased between the first half of pregnancy and postpartum, while the effect of EPDS increased.

Discussion

SLE-based methods capture an aspect of perinatal stress not adequately assessed by EPDS. Combination of psychological distress measures and SLE-based measures is optimal in predicting EBD of the child. Stress measures based on SLE are suitable for early pregnancy, while self-reports of depressive symptoms may perform better in postpartum.
Validation of the German group development (GD) questionnaire
Authors: Leuteritz Jan-Paul , Navarro Jose , Czakert Jan Philipp , Berger Rita
Published: July 2020

Group Development (GD) is an important variable when researching and evaluating what makes teams successful. We analyzed the psychometric properties of the originally Spanish GD questionnaire with German participants. 501 team members and 104 team leaders, 18 to 65 years old, from a German research organization answered an online survey composed of the GD questionnaire and items related to other group processes of democracy, mutual trust, team spirit, and interest in the team’s tasks. Results confirmed the unidimensional factor structure of the translated Spanish version for the German GD construct. Internal consistency, convergent and discriminant validity were good. The German GD correlated as expected to other constructs, and it showed concurrent validity with respect to the team members’ motivation and interest in team tasks (r = .79, p < .01). We recommend using the GD in German samples to measure team processes that are highly relevant for team effectiveness.
Whole-Brain Map of Long-Range Monosynaptic Inputs to Different Cell Types in the Amygdala of the Mouse
Authors: Fu Jia-Yu , Yu Xiao-Dan , Zhu Yi , Xie Shi-Ze , Tang Meng-Yu , Yu Bin , Li Xiao-Ming
Published: July 2020

The amygdala, which is involved in various behaviors and emotions, is reported to connect with the whole brain. However, the long-range inputs of distinct cell types have not yet been defined. Here, we used a retrograde trans-synaptic rabies virus to generate a whole-brain map of inputs to the main cell types in the mouse amygdala. We identified 37 individual regions that projected to neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2, 78 regions to parvalbumin-expressing neurons, 104 regions to neurons expressing protein kinase C-δ, and 89 regions to somatostatin-expressing neurons. The amygdala received massive projections from the isocortex and striatum. Several nuclei, such as the caudate-putamen and the CA1 field of the hippocampus, exhibited input preferences to different cell types in the amygdala. Notably, we identified several novel input areas, including the substantia innominata and zona incerta. These findings provide anatomical evidence to help understand the precise connections and diverse functions of the amygdala.
From landscape affordances to landscape connectivity: contextualizing an archaeology of human ecology
Authors: Kempf Michael
Published: July 2020

To understand the connectivity in human–landscape ecosystems, a multidirectional concept of landscape transformation, sociocultural development, and human response cycles needs to be considered. In this context, societal decision-making is controlled by the ecosystem’s functionality; the human perception, experience, memory, and tradition; and the individual configuration of landscape components: a conceptual framework that is herein referred to as landscape affordances. In contrast to defining environmental components as passive resources, the concept of landscape affordances entails dynamic and processual feedbacks of an individual and the environment in the moment of mutual interaction—thus actively integrating human ingenuity in the production of landscapes, biological processes, and sociocultural patterns. This article contextualizes the concepts of landscape affordances and functional ecosystem connectivity to evaluate human behavioural patterning and the production of landscapes in a methodological landscape archaeological approach.
Mental Representation and the Cognitive Architecture of Skilled Action
Authors: Schack Thomas , Frank Cornelia
Published: July 2020

The aim of this paper is to understand the functional role of mental representations and intentionality in skilled actions from a systems related perspective. Therefore, we will evaluate the function ofrepresentationand then discuss thecognitive architecture of skilled actionsin more depth. We are going to describe the building blocks and levels of the action system that enable us to control movements such as striking the tennis ball at the right time, or grasping tools in manual action. Based on this theoretical understanding themeasurement of mental representationsand related research results concerningmental representation in skilled actionare presented in an overview. This leads to the question how mental representations develop and change duringlearning.Finally, to consolidate the functional understanding of mental representation in skilled action and interaction, we provide examples how to use the measurement of mental representation in humans to inform technical systems.
Ovarian Histopathology in Transmasculine Persons on Testosterone: A Multicenter Case Series
Authors: Grimstad Frances W. , Fowler Kylie G. , New Erika P. , Ferrando Cecile A. , Pollard Robert R. , Chapman Graham , Gray Meredith , Gomez Lobo Veronica
Published: July 2020

Background

As transmasculine persons utilize androgen gender affirming hormone therapy as a part of transition, guidance has been lacking on the effects of the therapy on the ovaries, especially for those who may desire retention.

Aim

To describe the ovarian histopathology of transmasculine persons on testosterone therapy following oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy performed for gender affirmation.

Methods

This was a multicenter case series study of transmasculine patients on testosterone therapy who underwent hysterectomy with oophorectomy for gender affirmation between January 2015 and December 2017 at 5 tertiary care referral centers. Patients were identified by their current procedural and International Classification of Diseases codes.

Outcomes

Pre-, perioperative, and pathologic data were obtained from the electronic medical records and ovarian tissue descriptions from pathology reports were grouped into the following classifications: (i) simple/follicular cysts; (ii) polycystic ovaries; (iii) complex cysts; (iv) endometriomas; (v) other masses; (vi) atrophy; and (vii) normal.

Results

85 patients were included in the study. At the time of oophorectomy, the mean age and body mass index of the cohort were 30.4 ± 8.4 years and 30.2 ± 7.3 kg/m2, respectively, and the average interval from the initiation of testosterone to oophorectomy was 36 0.3 ± 37.9 months. On examination of ovarian histopathology, 49.4% (42) of specimens were found to have follicular/simple cysts, 5.9% (5) were polycystic, and 38.8% (33) had normal pathology. For those specimens with volume documented (n = 41), the median volume was 9.6 (range 1.5–82.5) cm3. There was no association between the duration of testosterone therapy or body mass index and the presence of cysts in the ovaries.

Clinical Implications

The results of this study reported benign histopathology in ovaries of a large cohort of transmasculine persons on testosterone which should be included when counseling patients on ovarian retention, as transmasculine patients may choose to retain their ovaries while on testosterone for a variety of reasons (including no desire to undergo surgery, desire for backup sex steroids, and potential use for future fertility).

Strengths & Limitations

This is a large multicenter study seeking to address the uncertainty in present counseling surrounding ovarian conservation in transmasculine persons on testosterone therapy. Its limitations included its retrospective nature and inability to address ovarian function after testosterone discontinuance.

Conclusion

In this cohort of transmasculine patients on testosterone therapy undergoing hysterectomy with oophorectomy for gender affirmation, ovarian histopathology was benign in all the specimens.
Blind Testing of Faunal Identification Protocols: A Case Study with North American Artiodactyl Stylohyoids
Authors: Lubinski Patrick M. , Lyman R. Lee , Johnson Matthew P.
Published: July 2020

Taxonomic identification of archaeofauna relies on techniques and anatomical traits that should be valid, reliable, and usable, but which are rarely tested. Identification protocols (techniques and anatomical traits), particularly those used to distinguish taxa of similar size and morphology, should be rigorously tested to ensure a solid interpretive foundation. Blind testing of a protocol for identifying stylohyoid bones of North American artiodactyls was performed by three analysts who independently employed the protocol to identify 77 anatomically complete specimens of known taxonomic identity, representing 54 individuals and 11 species. Identifications were identical in 89% of cases and in conflict in 3% of cases. The remainder involved differences in resolution; two analysts identified specimens to species, whereas the third identified specimens to more general taxonomic groups. Inter-analyst variability in identification was a result of differences in protocol application. Identifications were consistent with known taxon in 92%–96% of cases. Results indicate that the protocol is valid, reliable, and usable, and it can be applied to archaeological specimens with confidence. Testing of other identification criteria employed by zooarchaeologists is encouraged.
Prevalence of Cognitive and Vestibular Impairment in Seniors Experiencing Falls
Authors: Varriano Brenda , Sulway Shaleen , Wetmore Curtis , Dillon Wanda , Misquitta Karen , Multani Namita , Anor Cassandra , Martinez Maria , Cacchione Elena , Rutka John , Tartaglia Maria Carmela
Published: July 2020

Background:

Falls are a growing concern in seniors (≥65 yrs). Cognitive impairment (CI) and vestibular impairment (VI) increase fall risk. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of CI and VI in seniors experiencing falls.

Methods:

Participants (≥65 yrs) with falls were recruited from Falls Prevention Programs (FPPs) and a Memory Clinic (MC). CI was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment at FPPs. VI was assessed at an MC and FFPs using the Head Impulse- (video + bedside), Headshake-, Dix-Hallpike test, and test of sensory interaction in balance. Questionnaires included Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC).

Results:

Of 41 participants (29 FPPs, 12 MC); mean age was 80.1 ± 7.1 years, and 58.5% were female. Overall, 82.9% had VI. At FPPs, 76.0% had CI, and 72.3% had CI + VI. Bilateral vestibular hypofunction (BVH) was more common than unilateral vestibular hypofunction (UVH) (70.6% vs. 29.4%); p = 0.016. Dizziness Handicap (DHI) was not different between those with a VI (23.5 ± 23.9) versus without VI [PVI + no impairment] (10.0 ± 15.4); p = 0.160. Balance confidence (ABC) was lowest in VI but not significantly different between those with a VI (63.4 ± 27.3) versus without VI [PVI + no impairment] (85.0 ± 16.5); p = 0.053.

Conclusions:

VI and CI are prevalent in seniors experiencing falls. For seniors with history of falls, both cognitive and vestibular functions should be considered in the assessment and subsequent treatment. Screening enables earlier detection, targeted interventions, and prevention, reducing the clinical and financial impact.
Patients' perceptions of self-management of high blood pressure in three low- and middle-income countries: findings from the BPMONITOR study
Authors: Al-Rousan Tala , Pesantes M. Amalia , Dadabhai Sufia , Kandula Namratha R. , Huffman Mark D. , Miranda J. Jaime , Vidal-Perez Rafael , Dzudie Anastase , Anderson Cheryl A. M.
Published: July 2020

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for global disease burden. Self-management of high blood pressure (BP) through self-monitoring and self-titration of medications, has proved to be one successful and cost-effective tool to achieve better BP control in many high-income countries but not much is known about its potential in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We used semi-structured questionnaires and focus groups in three LMICs; Peru, Cameroon and Malawi to examine perceptions and attitudes of patients diagnosed with essential hypertension towards living with hypertension, BP measurement and treatment, patient–physician relationship and opinions about self-management of high blood pressure. Results in all three countries were comparable. Patients showed varied levels of health literacy related to hypertension. BP measurement habits were mostly affected by resources available and caregiver support. Treatment and adherence to it were primarily affected by cost. Most patients were welcoming of the idea of self-management but skeptical about the ability to do self-monitoring accurately and the safety involving self-titration of medications.
The Ediacaran frondose fossilArboreafrom the Shibantan limestone of South China
Authors: Wang Xiaopeng , Pang Ke , Chen Zhe , Wan Bin , Xiao Shuhai , Zhou Chuanming , Yuan Xunlai
Published: July 2020

Bituminous limestone of the Ediacaran Shibantan Member of the Dengying Formation (551–539 Ma) in the Yangtze Gorges area contains a rare carbonate-hosted Ediacara-type macrofossil assemblage. This assemblage is dominated by the tubular fossilWutubusChen et al., 2014 and discoidal fossils, e.g.,HiemaloraFedonkin, 1982 andAspidellaBillings, 1872, but frondose organisms such asCharniaFord, 1958,RangeaGürich, 1929, andArboreaGlaessner and Wade, 1966 are also present. Herein, we report four species ofArboreafrom the Shibantan assemblage, including the type speciesArborea arborea(Glaessner in Glaessner and Daily, 1959) Glaessner and Wade, 1966,Arborea denticulatanew species, and two unnamed species,Arboreasp. A andArboreasp. B.Arborea arboreais the most abundant frond in the Shibantan assemblage.Arborea denticulatan. sp. resemblesArborea arboreain general morphology but differs in its fewer primary branches and lower length/width ratio of primary branches.Arboreasp. A andArboreasp. B are fronds with aHiemalora-type basal attachment. Sealing by microbial mats and authigenic cementation may have played an important role in the preservation ofArboreain the Shibantan assemblage. The Shibantan material ofArboreaextends the stratigraphic, ecological, and taphonomic ranges of this genus.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/554f21da-5f09-4891-9deb-cbc00c41e5f1
ON EXTENSIONS OF PARTIAL ISOMORPHISMS
Authors: ETEDADIALIABADI MAHMOOD , GAO SU
Published: July 2020

In this paper we study a notion of HL-extension (HL standing for Herwig–Lascar) for a structure in a finite relational language
$\mathcal {L}$
. We give a description of all finite minimal HL-extensions of a given finite
$\mathcal {L}$
-structure. In addition, we study a group-theoretic property considered by Herwig–Lascar and show that it is closed under taking free products. We also introduce notions of coherent extensions and ultraextensive
$\mathcal {L}$
-structures and show that every countable
$\mathcal {L}$
-structure can be extended to a countable ultraextensive structure. Finally, it follows from our results that the automorphism group of any countable ultraextensive
$\mathcal {L}$
-structure has a dense locally finite subgroup.
HOW STRONG ARE SINGLE FIXED POINTS OF NORMAL FUNCTIONS?
Authors: FREUND ANTON
Published: July 2020

In a recent paper by M. Rathjen and the present author it has been shown that the statement “every normal function has a derivative” is equivalent to
$\Pi ^1_1$
-bar induction. The equivalence was proved over
$\mathbf {ACA_0}$
, for a suitable representation of normal functions in terms of dilators. In the present paper, we show that the statement “every normal function has at least one fixed point” is equivalent to
$\Pi ^1_1$
-induction along the natural numbers.
Independent living with mobility restrictions: older people's perceptions of their out-of-home mobility
Authors: Luoma-Halkola Henna , Häikiö Liisa
Published: July 2020

We studied older people's perceptions of how they organise their out-of-home mobility and independent living when they face mobility restrictions, based on seven focus groups with older people (N = 28) from a suburb in Finland. This article provides an everyday life view of how the ability to move outside the home evolves through interdependencies between older people and their neighbourhoods, social relations and societal arrangements. Our findings show that supportive socio-material surroundings can provide older people with new ways to move outside their home despite mobility restrictions and new ways to organise their daily life with decreased mobility. In contrast, restrictive socio-material surroundings can lead to situations in which older people forgo certain out-of-home journeys and activities. The findings contribute to an understanding that organising one's daily life and out-of-home mobility is an act of interdependence. Policies promoting independent living in old age should recognise these fundamental interdependencies and support versatile ways of living rather than overemphasise activity and self-reliance. Based on older people's everyday life perspectives, both sides of the coin need to be considered: how to enable the out-of-home mobility of older people facing mobility restrictions and how to support them in managing and enjoying daily life with decreased mobility.
Mathematical model describing CoViD-19 in São Paulo, Brazil – evaluating isolation as control mechanism and forecasting epidemiological scenarios of release
Authors: Yang H. M. , Lombardi Junior L. P. , Castro F. F. M. , Yang A. C.
Published: July 2020

In São Paulo, Brazil, the first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (CoViD-19) was confirmed on 26 February, the first death due to CoViD-19 was registered on 16 March, and on 24 March, São Paulo implemented the isolation of persons in non-essential activities. A mathematical model was formulated based on non-linear ordinary differential equations considering young (60 years old or less) and elder (60 years old or more) subpopulations, aiming to describe the introduction and dissemination of the new coronavirus in São Paulo. This deterministic model used the data collected from São Paulo to estimate the model parameters, obtainingR0= 6.8 for the basic reproduction number. The model also allowed to estimate that 50% of the population of São Paulo was in isolation, which permitted to describe the current epidemiological status. The goal of isolation implemented in São Paulo to control the rapid increase of the new coronavirus epidemic was partially succeeded, concluding that if isolation of at least 80% of the population had been implemented, the collapse in the health care system could be avoided. Nevertheless, the isolated persons must be released one day. Based on this model, we studied the potential epidemiological scenarios of release by varying the proportions of the release of young and elder persons. We also evaluated three different strategies of release: All isolated persons are released simultaneously, two and three releases divided in equal proportions. The better scenarios occurred when young persons are released, but maintaining elder persons isolated for a while. When compared with the epidemic without isolation, all strategies of release did not attain the goal of reducing substantially the number of hospitalisations due to severe CoViD-19. Hence, we concluded that the best decision must be postponing the beginning of the release.