bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do animal performance and methane emissions vary with forage management intensification and supplementation?
Authors: Koscheck J. F. W. , Romanzini E. P. , Barbero R. P. , Delevatti L. M. , Ferrari A. C. , Mulliniks J. T. , Mousquer C. J. , Berchielli T. T. , Reis R. A.
Published: March 2020

Context
Yields from Brazilian beef-production systems do not always match the expected potential of a forage-based beef-production system. This efficiency is dependent on adjustments of grazing intensity and supplement utilisation to achieve higher bodyweight gain and lower methane emission. Therefore, more studies are necessary to evaluate the association between pasture management and supplement doses.

Aims
The aim of the present study was to determine nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, animal performance, carcass characteristics and enteric methane emissions of young Nellore bulls grazing Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu pastures.

Methods
One hundred and forty-eight yearling bulls (230 ± 17 kg) were randomly assigned to a grazing-by-supplementation strategy that was designed to allocate three different sward heights with differing levels of supplementation during the wet season. Treatment combinations were (1) low sward height with high supplementation (LH-HS, 15-cm sward height and supplementation at 0.6% of bodyweight (BW)); (2) low height with moderate supplementation (LH-MS, 15 cm and 0.3% BW); (3) moderate height with moderate supplementation (MH-MS, 25 cm and 0.3% BW); (4) moderate height with low supplementation (MH-LS, 25 cm and 0.1% BW); (5) high height with low supplementation (HH-LS, 35 cm and 0.1% BW); and (6) high height with no supplementation (HH-WS, 35 cm).

Key results
Bulls in the HH groups had a greater herbage intake than did those in the LH groups (P < 0.01). Bulls in the LH-HS treatment resulted in a greater (P < 0.01) carcass average daily gain than that obtained with LH-MS, MH-LS or HH-WS treatment. Higher stocking rate with the LH treatment resulted in greater gains per hectare in terms of both BW and carcass (P < 0.01). Carcass yield was greater for bulls maintained with the LH-HS treatment (54.3% BW). Higher enteric methane emissions were observed from bulls under the HH treatments (P < 0.01).

Conclusions
Comparing carcass gains per hectare and low methane emissions, the present study indicated that pasture management towards a low sward height combined with 0.3% or 0.6% BW supplementation can result in a greater nutrient utilisation efficiency of bulls.

Implications
Results provided information to obtain better gains per animals and area, also decreasing methane emission of beef cattle production system.
Nano-enabled agriculture: from nanoparticles to smart nanodelivery systems
Authors: Xin Xiaoping , Judy Jonathan D. , Sumerlin Brent B. , He Zhenli
Published: March 2020

Environmental contextNano-enabled agriculture holds the promise of enhancing crop production while reducing the environmental impacts of agrochemicals. We review recent developments in the use of nano-fertilisers, nano-additives, nano-pesticides, nano-sensors, nano-cleansers and nano-delivery systems in agriculture. The review highlights the need for systematic studies on nanotoxicity and the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly nanomaterials for future applications.
AbstractTo keep pace with the ever-increasing demand of world population (nearly 9.8 billion), worldwide food production will need to increase by 50% by 2050. Nanotechnology innovations show great promise for combating this challenge by delivering a more sustainable, efficient and resilient agricultural system, while promoting food security. Further exploration of nanotechnology applications in agriculture is necessary to realise its potential in manufacturing innovative agrochemicals and novel delivery platforms to enhance crop production and quality. Here, we review the fundamentals of nanotechnology and focus on its potential in agricultural applications. Progress has been made in the development of nano-fertilisers, nano-additives, nano-pesticides, nano-herbicides, nano-bactericides, nano-cleansers and nano-sensors to improve agrochemical efficiency, reduce runoff, enhance plant growth, and diagnose plant nutrition deficiencies and diseases. In addition, nano-delivery systems have been designed to deliver effective components to targeted sites within a plant to provide potential solutions to some devastating crop diseases which cannot be effectively managed with conventional methods. However, nano-enabled agriculture is still in its infancy and its applications are mostly theoretical. Therefore, more research is needed to develop biodegradable, cost-effective and safe nanomaterials for future application. Moreover, systematic studies are crucial to safeguard our food production system, while making efforts to raise public awareness of nanotechnology.
Anxiety may be a risk factor for experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms during endurance races: An observational study
Authors: Wilson Patrick B. , Russell Hayley , Pugh Jamie
Published: March 2020

Scarce research has examined the links between stress, anxiety, and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during competition, despite that they are positively correlated in the general population. A total of 186 endurance athletes completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)‐14, Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI)‐3, and State‐Trait Inventory for Cognitive and Somatic Anxiety (STICSA) before races. Afterwards, they reported the severity of in‐race GI symptoms. Associations between high levels of stress and anxiety (defined as the top tertile) and GI distress (≥3 on a 0–10 scale) were examined using logistic regression. Athletes with high PSS‐14 scores did not have greater odds of GI symptoms, except nausea (odds ratio [OR] = 2.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–4.78). High scores on the STICSA‐trait were associated with nausea (OR = 3.43, 95% CI 1.57–7.50) and regurgitation/reflux (OR = 3.31, 95% CI 1.26–8.73). Among a sub‐sample of 125 participants that completed STICSA‐state questionnaires, higher anxiety was associated with nausea (OR = 5.57, 95% CI 1.96–15.83), regurgitation/reflux (OR = 3.75, 95% CI 1.17–12.00), fullness (OR = 2.98, 95% CI 1.05–8.49), and cramping (OR = 3.99, 95% CI 1.36–11.68). The ORs remained relatively stable after adjusting for age, gender, experience, body mass index, type of race, and race duration. ASI‐3 scores were not associated with symptoms. Individuals with higher levels of anxiety, especially on the morning of a race, may be prone GI distress, particularly nausea, regurgitation/reflux, and cramping.
Exertional rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury in endurance sports: A systematic review
Authors: Rojas‐Valverde Daniel , Sánchez‐Ureña Braulio , Crowe Jennifer , Timón Rafael , Olcina Guillermo J.
Published: March 2020

The increase of wide‐spread participation in endurance events in sports such as open water swimming, cycling, running and triathlons, has given rise to a concern about potential implications for renal function and kidney health. This study aimed to delve into the findings on exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER) and acute kidney injury (AKI) in endurance sports, emphasizing the diagnostic criteria used, physical and environmental contextual conditions in which ER and AKI are reported. Following PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis, topic related studies were searched digital sources (from 2009 to 2020). Studies with biomarkers of ER and AKI reported in endurance or ultra‐endurance events were included. A total of 43 publications (sample = 813) were extracted, and 345 (43.5%) individuals were diagnosed with ER (creatinine kinase > 5000 UI/L) and 130 (16.39%) with ER + AKI (creatinine ≥ 1.88 mg/dL). Out of the total cases of ER + AKI, 96.92% were in ultra‐endurance runners. There were inconsistences between studies in diagnosis criteria for ER and AKI, which represented a difficulty in the interpretation of the data. Increased levels of muscle and kidney injury immediately after endurance events were reported, but after 5.86 days these levels usually returned to baseline. There is a lack of knowledge around the potential of repeated ER and AKI predisposing to long‐term chronic kidney disease. More accurate markers for subclinical and functional AKI diagnosis are needed in the analysis of kidney health after endurance events. ER and AKI are serious clinical problems with significant morbidity. Further research may be in order to help define future prevention strategies.
Entanglement area law for shallow and deep quantum neural network states
Authors: Jia Zhih-Ahn , Wei Lu , Wu Yu-Chun , Guo Guang-Can , Guo Guo-Ping
Published: March 2020

A study of the artificial neural network representation of quantum many-body states is presented. The locality and entanglement properties of states for shallow and deep quantum neural networks are investigated in detail. By introducing the notion of local quasi-product states, for which the locally connected shallow feed-forward neural network states and restricted Boltzmann machine states are special cases, we show that Rényi entanglement entropies of all these states obey the entanglement area law. Besides, we also investigate the entanglement features of deep Boltzmann machine states and show that locality constraints imposed on the neural networks make the states obey the entanglement area law. Finally, as an application, we apply the notion of Rényi entanglement entropy to understand the power of neural networks, and show that image classification problems can be efficiently solved must obey the area law.
Preparation and properties of functional particle Fe3O4-rGO and its modified fiber/epoxy composite for high-performance microwave absorption structure
Authors: Xue Jiewen , Wu Congya , Du Xiaomei , Ma Weihai , Wen Kai , Huang Shaoliang , Liu Yanan , Liu Yaqing , Zhao Guizhe
Published: March 2020

Microwave absorbing materials have been becoming a countermeasure and security media for radio environment, and also been becoming the main military force attached by the world. In this study, experimental data, theoretical researches and FEKO—a 3D structure and electromagnetic field analysis simulation tool, namely, FEldberechnung bei Korpern mit beliebiger Oberflache, are effectively combined. Through systematic studies on electromagnetic parameters and microwave absorbing properties of high-performance absorbing functional particle Fe3O4-rGO (i.e. reduced graphene oxide), single-layer composite Fe3O4-rGO@EP/GF (epoxy/glass fiber) and multi-layer structure composite Fe3O4-rGO@EP/fiber, combined with the simulation calculations of material structures, design on the microwave absorption performances of fiber/resin structural composites is achieved. In particular, under the guidance of FEKO simulations, a multi-layer structure composite with two layers of Fe3O4-rGO@EP/GF with different Fe3O4-rGO added amounts as the absorbing layer and carbon fiber (CF) reinforced EP as the reflecting layer is prepared, which has an effective absorption bandwidth of 8.43–12.40 GHz, almost covering the whole X-band, and RLmin (minimum reflection loss) up to −34.60 dB at 10.37 GHz. The relevant experimental results are basically consistent with the FEKO simulation results. This study is helpful to improve the developing efficiencies and properties of microwave absorbing structure composites with both excellent mechanical properties and outstanding microwave absorbing performances, especially conducive to industrial productions.
Luminescence properties of pulsed laser deposited CuInxGa1−xSe2 films
Authors: Zacharia Anna , Nicolaou Christiana , Giapintzakis John , Itskos Grigorios
Published: March 2020

Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) of CuIn1−xGaxSe2 (CIGS) provides a low cost, single-step process via which stoichiometric, high quality thin films for light harvesting applications can be produced. Little is known about the optical properties of PLD-deposited CIGS and how they compare with the respected properties of the well-studied evaporated or sputtered CIGS films. We report herein a systematic spectroscopic investigation, probing the influence of PLD deposition temperature on the energetics and dynamics of emission from CuIn0.7Ga0.3Se2 films. Variable-temperature steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence in combination with Gaussian lineshape analysis allow us to unravel the contribution and nature of three main radiative channels, with the high energy one associated with electronic and two lower energy ones with defect levels. The analysis show that the band-edge luminescence grows at the expense of defect emission as PLD temperature increases in the 300 °C–500 °C range. This is further supported by: (i) The dramatic increase of the band-edge recombination lifetime from 30 to 180 ns, (ii) The quenching in the carrier trapping rate from 0.25 ns−1 to 0.09 ns−1 as growth temperature increases. The results correlate well with structural and electrical characterization studies reported previously on PLD-grown CIGS and rationally interpret the improvement in their optoelectronic properties as PLD deposition temperature increases .
Electric-double-layer-gated transistors based on two-dimensional crystals: recent approaches and advances
Authors: Xu Ke , Fullerton-Shirey Susan K
Published: March 2020

Electric-double-layer (EDL) gated transistors use ions in an electrolyte to induce charge in the channel of the transistor by field-effect. Because a sub-nanometer gap capacitor is created at the electrolyte/channel interface, large capacitance densities (∼µF cm−2) corresponding to high sheet carrier densities (1014 cm−2) can be induced, exceeding conventional gate dielectrics by about one order of magnitude. Because it is an interfacial technique, EDL gating is especially effective on two-dimensional (2D) crystals, which—at the monolayer limit—are basically interfaces themselves. Both solid polymer electrolytes and ionic liquids are routinely used as ion-conducting gate dielectrics, and they have provided access to regimes of transport in 2D materials that would be inaccessible otherwise. The technique, now widely used, has enabled the 2D crystal community to study superconductivity, spin- and valleytronics, investigate electrical and structural phase transitions, and create abrupt p-n junctions to generate tunneling, among others. In addition to using EDL gating as a tool to investigate properties of the 2D crystals, more recent efforts have emerged to engineer the electrolyte to add new functionality and device features, such as synaptic plasticity, bistability and non-volatility. Example of potential applications include neuromorphic computing and non-volatile memory. This review focuses on using ions for electrostatic control of 2D crystal transistors both to uncover basic properties of 2D crystals, and also to add new device functionalities.
Prevalence of impostor phenomenon and assessment of well-being in pharmacy residents
Authors: Sullivan Jesse B , Ryba Nicole L
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to quantify the prevalence of impostor phenomenon (IP) and to assess well-being in pharmacy residents, as well as analyze the effects of demographics on these outcomes.

Methods

A cross-sectional, survey-based study was performed. Pharmacy residency program directors and pharmacy directors were asked to forward an invitation email to actively enrolled postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) and postgraduate year 2 pharmacy residents in March 2019. The survey used the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS) to identify IP and the Mayo Clinic Resident/Fellow Well-Being Index (RWBI) to assess resident well-being.

Results

Survey respondents were mostly female, enrolled in PGY1 programs and single with no children. Of the 720 responses included in the study, 57.5% (n = 414) were identified as “impostors” (CIPS score of ≥62), with a mean CIPS score of 64.0 (SD, 15.0). Prior mental health treatment and increased hours worked per week were significant predictors of IP. The greatest correlation was found in those working greater than 80 hours per week compared to less than 60 hours per week (ß = 9.845; P < 0.001). The mean RWBI score was 4.2 (SD, 1.8), with 47.8% (n = 344) of residents scoring ≥5, the cutoff for identifying those at greatest risk of distress. Age, previous mental health treatment, and increasing hours worked per week were significant predictors of RWBI ≥5. CIPS and RWBI scores were found to exhibit weak but significant correlation (ρ = 0.357; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pharmacy residents displayed significantly higher prevalence of IP vs comparable groups as well as significantly more distress with potential for a personal and/or professional consequence.
Demographic responses of forest-utilizing bats to past climate change in South Africa
Authors: Moir Monika , Richards Leigh R , Cherry Michael I , Rambau Ramugondo V
Published: March 2020

Historical forest contractions may have restricted the distributions of forest-utilizing fauna while providing opportunities for range expansions for open-habitat species. We aimed to test if habitat associations have played an important role in determining population genetic structure and demographic responses of six bats to oscillations in forest extent since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). We hypothesized that forest-associated species would display high levels of population structure and past population contractions as their distribution is dependent on fragmented forests. By contrast, habitat generalists would demonstrate low geographical structuring and historical population stability as suitable habitats are widely available. We used mitochondrial DNA to generate genetic diversity and population structure metrics of three forest-associated species and three habitat generalists in South Africa. Neutrality tests and Bayesian skyline plots were used to investigate demographic histories. A forest habitat association did not inform the population genetics of the study species. Rather, species-specific traits of roosting requirements, philopatry to the natal range and dispersal ability informed the observed structure. All species demonstrated population expansions during the Pleistocene, with no apparent decline during the LGM. It appears that the lower climate change footprint and refuge-status of eastern South Africa prevented population declines of insectivorous bats during the LGM.
Association of aortic valve calcification and vitamin K antagonist treatment
Authors: Sønderskov Pernille Stegemejer , Lindholt Jes Sandal , Hallas Jesper , Gerke Oke , Hasific Selma , Lambrechtsen Jess , Steffensen Flemming Hald , Busk Martin , Frost Lars , Urbonaviciene Grazina , Karon Marek , Kikar Abdel Monem , Rasmussen Lars Melholt , Diederichsen and Axel
Published: March 2020

Aims 

Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are suspected of causing aortic valve calcification (AVC). The objective of this study was to clarify whether patients undergoing VKA treatment have increased AVC scores compared to patients treated with new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and patients who never have been treated with VKA/NOAC.

Methods and results 

We included participants from the population-based DANCAVAS trial (n = 15 048). Information on confounders was collected, and the AVC scores were measured on non-contrast computed tomography scans. The participants’ medication data, including VKA and NOAC data, were collected from the Danish National Health Service Prescription Database. The final population consisted of 14 604 participants (67.4 years, 95% men) of whom 873 had been treated with VKA and 602 with NOAC. The association between AVC score and duration of anticoagulant use was investigated in an adjusted zero-inflated negative binomial regression model. For every year treated with VKA, the AVC score increased, on average, by 6% [ratio of expected counts (RECs) = 1.06; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–1.10] compared to non-use. The results were consistent in sensitivity analyses excluding patients with known cardiovascular disease and statin users (REC = 1.07; 95% CI 1.02–1.11 and REC = 1.10; 95% CI 1.03–1.17, respectively). NOAC treatment was not significantly associated with AVC score in any of the corresponding models (REC = 1.03, 1.02, and 0.96).

Conclusion 

Compared to no treatment with anticoagulants, VKA use was associated with increased AVC score, while a similar association could not be established for NOAC.
EACVI survey on the evaluation of infective endocarditis
Authors: Holte Espen , Dweck Marc R , Marsan Nina Ajmone , D’Andrea Antonello , Manka Robert , Stankovic Ivan , Haugaa Kristina H
Published: March 2020

Aims

To evaluate the diagnosis and imaging of patients with suspected endocarditis and the management in routine clinical practice across Europe, the EACVI Scientific Initiatives Committee performed a survey across European centres. In particular, the routine use of echocardiography, advanced imaging modalities and multidisciplinary team was explored.

Methods and results

A total of 100 European Echocardiography Laboratories from 29 different countries responded to the survey, which consisted of 20 questions. For most of the use of echocardiography and advanced imaging, answers from the centres were relatively homogeneous and demonstrated good adherence to current recommendations. In particular, two-thirds of centres report the use of a specific endocarditis team for decision-making. Echocardiography plays a key role in the diagnosis and management of endocarditis. Nuclear imaging modalities are broadly available among the centres and are mainly used in prosthetic valve endocarditis and cardiac device-related infective endocarditis. Computed tomography (CT) is widely available and used to assess for structural valve abnormalities, neurological complications, and to preoperative assessment of the coronary arteries. Most institutions provide structured patients follow-up following hospital discharge.

Conclusion

In Europe, a relatively homogenous adherence to current recommendation was observed for most diagnostic and management including the follow-up of patients with endocarditis. Decision-making is most commonly performed by a multidisciplinary team. Echocardiography remains the first line and central imaging modality for patient diagnosis and assessment, but 60% of centres also commonly use CT, whilst positron emission tomography imaging is used in patients with prosthetic valve endocarditis or device infection.
Biomarkers of orthodontic tooth movement with fixed appliances and vibration appliance therapy: a pilot study
Authors: Reiss Stacey , Chouinard Marie Claude , Frias Landa Dasha , Nanda Ravindra , Chandhoke Taranpreet , Sobue Takanori , Allareddy Veerasathpurush , Kuo Chia-Ling , Mu Jinjian , Uribe Flavio
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of supplemental vibratory force on biomarkers of bone remodelling during orthodontic tooth movement, the rate of mandibular anterior alignment (RMAA), and compliance with a vibration device.

Design, settings, and participants

Forty patients between the ages 15–35 undergoing fixed appliance treatment that presented to a university orthodontic clinic were randomly allocated to supplemental use of an intraoral vibrational device (n = 20, AcceleDent®) or fixed appliance only (n = 20). Salivary multiplex assay was completed to analyse the concentration of selected biomarkers of bone remodelling before treatment (T0) and at three following time points (T1, T2, T3), 4–6 weeks apart. Irregularity of the mandibular anterior teeth and compliance was assessed at the same trial time points. Data were analysed blindly on an intention-to-treat basis with descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U-test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and linear mixed effects regression modelling.

Results

No difference in the changes in salivary biomarkers of bone remodelling and RMAA between groups at any time point over the trial duration was observed. No correlation was found between changes in irregularity and biomarker level from baseline to another time point. Lastly, there was no association between RMAA and compliance with the AcceleDent® device.

Conclusions

Supplemental vibratory force during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances does not affect biomarkers of bone remodelling or the RMAA.

Limitations

The main limitation of the study was the small sample size and the large variability in the salivary biomarkers.

Harms

No harms were observed during the duration of the trial.

Protocol

The protocol was not published prior to trial commencement.

Registration

The study was registered in Clinical Trials.gov (NCT02119455) first posted on April 2014.
The great convergence? Mortality in Ireland and Europe, 1956–2014
Authors: Eighan James , Walsh Brendan , Connolly Sheelah , Wren Maev-Ann , Keegan Conor , Bergin Adele
Published: March 2020

Background

Until recently, Irish age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) were amongst the highest in the EU-15. This study examines changes in ASMRs in Ireland from 1956 to 2014.

Methods

Using data from the World Health Organization Mortality Database, we compare ASMRs in Ireland to other EU-15 countries from 1956 to 2014. ASMRS are used to plot the relative ranking of Ireland within the EU-15, and illustrate trends in which Ireland diverged with, and converged to, the EU-15 average. ASMRS are estimated across sex, age groups (15–64 and 65+ years) and cause of death.

Results

Between 1956 and 1999, ASMRs in Ireland were amongst the highest in the EU-15. ASMRs in Ireland saw slower improvements during this period as compared to other EU-15 countries. However, post-2000, a sharp reduction in Irish ASMRs resulted in an accelerated convergence to the EU-15 average. As a consequence of improvements in ASMRs between 2000 and 2014, there were an estimated 15 300 fewer deaths in 2014. The majority of these averted deaths were due to lower mortality rates for diseases of the circulatory system and respiratory system.

Conclusions

Rather than converging to the EU-15 average during the latter half of the 20th century, there was a divergence in ASMRs between Ireland and the EU-15. However, in recent years, Ireland experienced accelerated improvements in mortality rates with large reductions in mortality observed for diseases of the circulatory system and respiratory system, especially amongst older people.
Abiotic factors influence patterns of bacterial diversity and community composition in the Dry Valleys of Antarctica
Authors: Bottos Eric M , Laughlin Daniel C , Herbold Craig W , Lee Charles K , McDonald Ian R , Cary S Craig
Published: March 2020

The Dry Valleys of Antarctica are a unique ecosystem of simple trophic structure, where the abiotic factors that influence soil bacterial communities can be resolved in the absence of extensive biotic interactions. This study evaluated the degree to which aspects of topographic, physicochemical and spatial variation explain patterns of bacterial richness and community composition in 471 soil samples collected across a 220 square kilometer landscape in Southern Victoria Land. Richness was most strongly influenced by physicochemical soil properties, particularly soil conductivity, though significant trends with several topographic and spatial variables were also observed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) supported a final model in which variation in community composition was best explained by physicochemical variables, particularly soil water content, and where the effects of topographic variation were largely mediated through their influence on physicochemical variables. Community dissimilarity increased with distance between samples, and though most of this variation was explained by topographic and physicochemical variation, a small but significant relationship remained after controlling for this environmental variation. As the largest survey of terrestrial bacterial communities of Antarctica completed to date, this work provides fundamental knowledge of the Dry Valleys ecosystem, and has implications globally for understanding environmental factors that influence bacterial distributions.
The Origin and Composition of Korean Ethnicity Analyzed by Ancient and Present-Day Genome Sequences
Authors: Kim Jungeun , Jeon Sungwon , Choi Jae-Pil , Blazyte Asta , Jeon Yeonsu , Kim Jong-Il , Ohashi Jun , Tokunaga Katsushi , Sugano Sumio , Fucharoen Suthat , Al-Mulla Fahd , Bhak Jong
Published: March 2020

Koreans are thought to be an ethnic group of admixed northern and southern subgroups. However, the exact genetic origins of these two remain unclear. In addition, the past admixture is presumed to have taken place on the Korean peninsula, but there is no genomic scale analysis exploring the origin, composition, admixture, or the past migration of Koreans. Here, 88 Korean genomes compared with 91 other present-day populations showed two major genetic components of East Siberia and Southeast Asia. Additional paleogenomic analysis with 115 ancient genomes from Pleistocene hunter-gatherers to Iron Age farmers showed a gradual admixture of Tianyuan (40 ka) and Devil’s gate (8 ka) ancestries throughout East Asia and East Siberia up until the Neolithic era. Afterward, the current genetic foundation of Koreans may have been established through a rapid admixture with ancient Southern Chinese populations associated with Iron Age Cambodians. We speculate that this admixing trend initially occurred mostly outside the Korean peninsula followed by continuous spread and localization in Korea, corresponding to the general admixture trend of East Asia. Over 70% of extant Korean genetic diversity is explained to be derived from such a recent population expansion and admixture from the South.
A Practical Methodology for Improving the Aging-Friendliness of Communities: Case Studies from Three U.S. Communities
Authors: Evans Lauren , Oberlink Mia R , Stafford Philip B
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

In this paper, we present a series of three case studies to illustrate an innovative and practical approach to improving the aging-friendliness of communities. These three communities used the AdvantAge Initiative to “listen” to the voices of older adults in their communities and to identify and prioritize aging-related issues. This approach was developed by the Center for Home Care Policy and Research at the Visiting Nurse Service of New York (VNSNY), the largest not-for-profit home health care organization in the United States, and has been implemented in over 60 communities throughout the United States. The methodology involves tools such as conceptual frameworks, survey questionnaires, focus groups, and technical assistance to help stakeholders interpret data and find solutions to identified issues.

Research Design and Methods

We interviewed VNSNY program staff and community partners involved in three AdvantAge Initiative projects that commenced at varying time points: Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee (2012); New York City’s Chinatown neighborhood (2006); and the state of Indiana (2008). We also collected and reviewed secondary materials associated with these projects (e.g., meeting notes from community planning meetings, annual reports from grant recipients, press coverage).

Results

In this case study, we begin by providing an overview of the AdvantAge Initiative framework and the AdvantAge Initiative key indicators. We then present a more in-depth look at the three communities and how they approached and implemented the AdvantAge Initiative.

Discussion and Implications

These case studies demonstrate that this methodology may be implemented in diverse communities and geographic locations. By looking at the longer-term outcomes and by comparing the strategies employed by each community, we see that communities, regardless of size, can bring stakeholders together to promote health and implement meaningful changes that make the community a better place to live for older adults and their families.
ESHRE PGT Consortium good practice recommendations for the organisation of PGT†
Authors:   ESHRE PGT Consortium Steering Committee, Carvalho Filipa , Coonen Edith , Goossens Veerle , Kokkali Georgia , Rubio Carmen , Meijer-Hoogeveen Madelon , Moutou Céline , Vermeulen Nathalie , De Rycke Martine
Published: March 2020

The field of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is evolving fast, and best practice advice is essential for regulation and standardisation of diagnostic testing. The previous ESHRE guidelines on best practice for preimplantation genetic diagnosis, published in 2005 and 2011, are considered outdated and the development of new papers outlining recommendations for good practice in PGT was necessary.

The current updated version of the recommendations for good practice is, similar to the 2011 version, split into four documents, one of which covers the organisation of a PGT centre. The other documents focus on the different technical aspects of embryo biopsy, PGT for monogenic/single-gene defects (PGT-M) and PGT for chromosomal structural rearrangements/aneuploidies (PGT-SR/PGT-A).

The current document outlines the steps prior to starting a PGT cycle, with details on patient inclusion and exclusion, and counselling and information provision. Also, recommendations are provided on the follow-up of PGT pregnancies and babies. Finally, some further recommendations are made on the practical organisation of an IVF/PGT centre, including basic requirements, transport PGT and quality management.

This document, together with the documents on embryo biopsy, PGT-M and PGT-SR/PGT-A, should assist everyone interested in PGT in developing the best laboratory and clinical practice possible.
Towards regionalization of the chondrichthyan fauna of the Southwest Atlantic: a spatial framework for conservation planning
Authors: Sabadin D E , Lucifora L O , Barbini S A , Figueroa D E , Kittlein M
Published: March 2020

Biogeographic regionalization identifies natural species assemblages of a given region. In this study, the geographic distribution of chondrichthyan species richness and species assemblages for the Southwest Atlantic were identified. The geographic distribution of 103 chondrichthyans was estimated through modelling. Based on the obtained binary maps, the distribution of chondrichthyan richness was obtained at four taxonomic levels: class Chondrichthyes (chondrichthyans), subclass Holocephali (chimaeras), division Selachii (sharks), and division Batomorphi (batoids). The continental shelf off Uruguay and southern Brazil presented the highest levels of chondrichthyan richness, and a smaller peak was found in El Rincón (northern Argentina). Shark richness concentrated mainly off Lagoa dos Patos (southern Brazil). Batoid richness was maximal off Uruguay and northern Argentina, including modes in El Rincón, San Jorge Gulf, and slope of the Argentinean shelf. Classification analyses revealed the presence of a hierarchical regionalization, with three main and six minor assemblages. Main assemblages are hierarchically identifiable as provinces and minor ones as ecoregions or districts. Two of the main assemblages correspond with the Argentinean and Magellanic Provinces; the third one is identified here for the first time, the Patagonian Slope Province. This regionalization provides the basis for the design of protected area networks for conservation or management purposes.
The trophic ecology of partial migration: insights from Merluccius australis off NW Patagonia
Authors: Toledo Pamela , Niklitschek Edwin J , Darnaude Audrey M , Leiva Félix P , Harrod Chris , Lillo Sergio , Ojeda Vilma , Klarian Sebastián , Molina-Burgos Blanca E , Gálvez Patricio , Canales-Aguirre Cristian B
Published: March 2020

Partial migration, where migrant and resident organisms coexist within the same population, has been found in many fishes. Although it seems obvious that different life cycles exploit habitats and food webs differently, few assessments about the trophic consequences of partial migration are available. To unveil part of this complexity, we combined otolith chemistry with stable isotope analyses data for hind-casting Merluccius australis habitat use and diet composition at age. By providing detailed information about lifetime variability in diet, trophic position, and prey demand of four M. australis life-cycle types, we show that these groups feed differentially in estuarine and oceanic habitats throughout their ontogeny. Although trophic positions were similar between habitats for juvenile and subadults, substantial differences between life-cycle types were found regarding lifetime diet and trophic demand. Thus, the more abundant and heavily exploited oceanic stock of M. australis was heavily dependent of estuarine habitats within the Patagonian Fjords System, where it consumes large biomasses of Macruronus magellanicus, Pasiphaea, Sprattus fuegensis, and Euphausiidae at earlier stages. We show ignoring trophic consequences of partial migration and life-cycle diversity may produce highly biased results, both in terms of prey and habitat use, which appears critical for multispecies and ecosystem management approaches.
On the Construction of Closed Nonconvex Nonsoliton Ancient Mean Curvature Flows
Authors: Bourni Theodora , Langford Mathew , Mramor Alexander
Published: March 2020

We construct closed, embedded, ancient mean curvature flows in each dimension $n\ge 2$ with the topology of $S^1\times S^{n-1}$. These examples are not mean convex and not solitons. They are constructed by analyzing perturbations of the self-shrinking doughnuts constructed by Drugan and Nguyen (or, alternatively, Angenent’s self-shrinking torus when $n =2$).
How health care systems let our patients down: a systematic review into suicide deaths
Authors: Wyder Marianne , Ray Manaan K , Roennfeldt Helena , Daly Michael , Crompton David
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To synthesize the literature in relation to findings of system errors through reviews of suicide deaths in the public mental health system.

Data sources

A systematic narrative meta-synthesis using the PRISMA methodology was conducted.

Study selection

All English language articles published between 2000 and 2017 that reported on system errors identified through reviews of suicide deaths were included. Articles that reported on patient factors, contact with General Practitioners or individual cases were excluded.

Data extraction

Results were extracted and summarized. An overarching coding framework was developed inductively. This coding framework was reapplied to the full data set.

Results of data synthesis

Fourteen peer reviewed publications were identified. Nine focussed on suicide deaths that occurred in hospital or psychiatric inpatient units. Five studies focussed on suicide deaths while being treated in the community. Vulnerabilities were identified throughout the patient’s journey (i.e. point of entry, transitioning between teams, and point of exit with the service) and centred on information gathering (i.e. inadequate and incomplete risk assessments or lack of family involvement) and information flow (i.e. transitions between different teams). Beyond enhancing policy, guidelines, documentation and regular training for frontline staff there were very limited suggestions as to how systems can make it easier for staff to support their patients.

Conclusions

There are currently limited studies that have investigated learnings and recommendations. Identifying critical vulnerabilities in systems and to be proactive about these could be one way to develop a highly reliable mental health care system.
Sustainability of quality improvement teams in selected regional referral hospitals in Tanzania
Authors: Kacholi Godfrey , Mahomed Ozayr H
Published: March 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the sustainability of hospital quality improvement teams and to assess factors influencing their sustainability in the regional referral hospital in Tanzania.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and August of 2018.

Setting and participants

The study was conducted in four selected regional referral hospitals in Tanzania. All members of the quality improvement teams available during the study period were recruited.

Intervention

Quality improvement teams and their activities.

Main outcome measure

The primary outcome was sustainability total scores. The secondary outcomes were process, staff and organizational sustainability scores. The sustainability of quality improvement teams was assessed by using the National Health Service Institute for Innovation and Improvement Sustainability Model self-assessment tool.

Results

The overall mean sustainability score was 59.08 (95% CI: 53.69–64.46). Tanga Regional Referral Hospital had the highest mean sustainability score of 66.15 (95% CI: 55.12–77.18). Mbeya Regional Referral Hospital obtained the lowest mean sustainability score of 52.49 (95% CI: 42.96–62.01). The process domain had the highest proportionate mean sustainability score of 22.46 (95% CI: 20.58–24.33) across four hospitals. The staff domain recorded the lowest proportionate sustainability score of 27.28 (95% CI: 24.76–29.80).

Conclusions

Perceived less involvement of senior leadership (hospital management teams) and clinical leadership (heads of clinical departments) and infrastructure limitation appeared to negatively affect the sustainability of the hospital quality improvement teams. Our study underscores the importance of establishing a permanent and fully resourced Quality Improvement Unit—with team members employed as full-time staff.
Human cerebral organoids as a new legal and ethical challenge†
Authors: Lavazza Andrea , Pizzetti Federico Gustavo
Published: March 2020

Human cerebral organoids (HCOs) are miniature brains cultivated in a dish using pluripotent human cells that, thanks to advanced technologies, tend to reproduce the development path of the brain of an embryo in the mother’s uterus. Recent data from studies carried out in different laboratories have indicated that HCOs show complex electrical activity, are receptive to light stimuli, and can command a muscle connected to them. The presence of the main neuronal structures in them suggests that, despite currently lacking vascularization and sensory exchanges with the outside world, more developed HCOs could exhibit some rudimentary form of consciousness, specifically a minimal sentience with respect to the basic experiences of pain and pleasure. Faced with this possibility, which for many scientists is still a long way off, we have begun to reflect on how we could empirically investigate the presence of consciousness. If we were certain or had a reasonable belief that some types of HCOs are sentient, what kind of entity would we judge them to be? Would they have specific legal protection? Should they be attributed to a moral status? This article tries to give an initial answer to these two questions. On the one side, it seems that no special rights can be claimed for HCOs other than those relating to human biological material. On the other side, instead, a sentient HCO could aspire to having its moral status recognized. If this were the case, the law may have to adapt to this unprecedented situation.
Low risks for spiritual highs: Risk-taking behaviours and the protective benefits of spiritual health among Saskatchewan adolescents
Authors: Hatala Andrew , McGavock Jonathan , Michaelson Valerie , Pickett William
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Adolescent risk-taking behaviours, such as substance use and early sexual activity, can adversely impact physical health and psychosocial development. A connection to spiritual health may buffer against the negative health impacts of several risk-taking behaviours. The aim of this study was to determine if higher spiritual health was associated with lower risk-taking behaviours among school-attending adolescents in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Methods

A representative sample of 4,751 adolescents in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan completed the Health Behaviour of School-aged Children (HBSC) questionnaire during the 2014 to 2015 school year. The main risk-taking behavioural outcomes were self-reported: smoking; alcohol; and cannabis use; as well as sexual intercourse. The main exposures related to spiritual health included four factors: connectedness to (1) one’s self; (2) others; (3) nature; and (4) notions of the transcendent. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to test for associations between exposures and outcome measures.

Results

The sample was balanced across gender, primarily Caucasian (71%), and primarily ages 11 to 15 years (48%). Adolescents indicated a high prevalence of spiritual health. Across all adjusted models, the results demonstrated that adolescents who value the various components of spiritual health showed a decreased likelihood of engaging in cigarette smoking, alcohol and marijuana use, and sexual intercourse.

Conclusion

The findings indicate the potential for spiritual health to be considered as the basis for public- and community-health interventions, pending further evidence from experimental studies.
Understanding mechanisms of integrated behavioral therapy for co-occurring obesity and depression in primary care: a mediation analysis in the RAINBOW trial
Authors: Rosas Lisa G , Xiao Lan , Lv Nan , Lavori Phillip W , Venditti Elizabeth M , Snowden Mark B , Smyth Joshua M , Lewis Megan A , Williams Leanne M , Suppes Trisha , Goldstein-Piekarski Andrea N , Ma Jun
Published: March 2020

The RAINBOW trial demonstrated that an integrated collaborative care intervention was effective for improving weight and depression. This study examined mediation of the treatment effect by a priori specified lifestyle behaviors and cognitive functioning. Participants were randomized to a 12-month integrated intervention (n = 204) or usual care (n = 205). Body mass index (BMI) and 20-item Depression Symptom Check List (SCL-20) were co-primary outcomes (Y). To examine mediation, we assessed (a) the effect of the integrated intervention (X) on lifestyle behaviors (diet and physical activity) and cognitive functioning (problem-solving; M, X→M path a) and (b) the association of these behaviors with BMI and SCL-20 (M→Y path b). Mediation existed if paths a and b were significant or if path a and the product of coefficients test (paths a and b) were significant. Compared with usual care, the intervention led to significant improvements in leisure time physical activity (201.3 MET minutes/week [SD, 1,457.6]) and total calorie intake (337.4 kcal/day [818.3]) at 6 months but not 12 months (path a). These improvements were not significantly associated with improvements in BMI or SCL-20 (path b). However, avoidant problem-solving style score and increased fruit and vegetable intake significantly correlated with improvements in BMI at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Also, increased fruit and vegetable intake, higher dietary quality, and better problem-solving abilities significantly correlated with improvements in SCL-20 at 6 and 12 months. These findings did not support the hypothesized mediation, but suggest lifestyle behaviors and cognitive functioning to target in future intervention optimization.