bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of a factory‐calibrated, real‐time continuous glucose monitoring system during elective abdominal surgery
Authors: Tripyla Afroditi , Herzig David , Joachim Dehais , Nakas Christos T. , Amiet Franziska , Andreou Andreas , Gloor Beat , Vogt Andreas , Bally Lia
Published: June 2020

We assessed the performance of the factory‐calibrated, sixth‐generation continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system Dexcom G6® (DexCom Inc., San Diego, California) during elective abdominal surgery. Twenty adults with (pre)diabetes undergoing abdominal surgery (>2 hours; 15 men, age 69 ± 13 years, glycated haemoglobin 53 ± 14 mmol/mol) wore the sensor from 1 week prior to surgery until hospital discharge. From induction of anaesthesia until 2 hours post‐surgery, reference capillary glucose values were obtained every 20 minutes using the Accu‐Chek® Inform II meter (Roche Diabetes Care, Mannheim, Germany). The primary endpoint was the mean absolute relative difference (ARD) between sensor and reference method during this period. In total, 1207 CGM/reference pairs were obtained. In the peri‐operative period (523 pairs), mean ± SD and median (interquartile range [IQR]) ARD were 12.7% ± 8.7% and 9.9 (6.3;15.9)%, respectively, and 67.4% of sensor readings were within International Organization of Standardization 15197:2013 limits. CGM overestimated reference glucose by 1.1 ± 0.8 mmol/L (95% limits of agreement −0.5;2.7 mmol/L). Clarke error grid zones A or B contained 99.2% of pairs (A: 78.8%; B: 20.4%). The median (IQR) peri‐operative sensor availability was 98.6 (95.9;100.0)%. No clinically significant adverse events occurred. In conclusion, the Dexcom G6 device showed consistent and acceptable accuracy during elective abdominal surgery, opening new avenues for peri‐operative glucose management.
A simple score to predict early death after kidney transplantation
Authors: Bamoulid Jamal , Frimat Marie , Courivaud Cécile , Crepin Thomas , Gaiffe Emilie , Hazzan Marc , Ducloux Didier
Published: June 2020

Background

Few studies have focused on risk stratification for premature death after transplantation. However, stratification of individual risk is an essential step in personalized care.

Material and methods

We have developed a risk score of early post‐transplant death (ORLY score) in a prospective multicentre cohort including 942 patients and validated our model in a retrospective independent replication cohort including 874 patients.

Results

60 patients (6.4%) from the prospective cohort died during the first three‐year post‐transplant. Age, male gender, diabetes, dialysis duration and chronic respiratory failure were associated with early post‐transplant death. The multivariable model exhibited good discrimination ability (C‐index = 0.78, 95%CI [0.75‐0.81]). ORLY score highly predicted early death after transplantation (1.34; 95%CI, 1.22 to 1.48 for each increase of 1 point in score; P < .001). The predictive value of the score in the validation cohort was close to that observed in the experimental cohort (1.41; 95%CI, 1.27 to 1.56 for each increase of 1 point in score; P < .001). Merging the two cohorts, four categories of risk could be individualized: low, 0‐5 (n = 522, mean risk, 1%); intermediate, 6‐7 (n = 739, mean risk 4.7%); moderate, 8‐10 (n = 429, mean risk 10%); and high risk 11‐15 (n = 132, mean risk 19%).

Conclusions

The ORLY score discriminates patients with high risk of early death.
Climate change impacts on soil salinity in agricultural areas
Authors: Corwin Dennis L.
Published: June 2020

Changes in climate patterns are dramatically influencing some agricultural areas. Arid, semi‐arid and coastal agricultural areas are especially vulnerable to climate change impacts on soil salinity. Inventorying and monitoring climate change impacts on salinity are crucial to evaluate the extent of the problem, to recognize trends and to formulate irrigation and crop management strategies that will maintain the agricultural productivity of these areas. Over the past three decades, Corwin and colleagues at the U.S. Salinity Laboratory (USSL) have developed proximal sensor and remote imagery methodologies for assessing soil salinity at multiple scales. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the impact climate change has had on selected agricultural areas experiencing weather pattern changes, with a focus on the use of proximal and satellite sensors to assess salinity development. Evidence presented in case studies for Californiaʼs San Joaquin Valley (SJV) and Minnesotaʼs Red River Valley (RRV) demonstrates the utility of these sensor approaches in assessing soil salinity changes due to changes in weather patterns. Agricultural areas are discussed where changes in weather patterns have increased root‐zone soil salinity, particularly in areas with shallow water tables (SJV and RRV), coastal areas with seawater intrusion (e.g., Bangladesh and the Gaza Strip) and water‐scarce areas potentially relying on degraded groundwater as an irrigation source (SJV and Murray‐Darling River Basin). Trends in salinization due to climate change indicate that the infrastructure and protocols to monitor soil salinity from field to regional to national to global scales are needed.

Highlights

Climate change will have a negative impact on agriculture, particularly in arid regions.

Proximal/remote sensors are useful to assess climate change impact on soil salinity across scales.

Salt‐water intrusion, shallow water tables and degraded water reuse will increase soil salinity.

Infrastructure and protocols to monitor soil salinity across multiple scales are needed.
Introducing a mechanistic model in digital soil mapping to predict soil organic matter stocks in the Cantabrian region (Spain)
Authors: Hendriks Chantal Mechtildis Johanna , Stoorvogel Jetse Jacob , Álvarez‐Martínez Jose Manuel , Claessens Lieven , Pérez‐Silos Ignacio , Barquín José
Published: June 2020

Digital soil mapping (DSM) is an effective mapping technique that supports the increased need for quantitative soil data. In DSM, soil properties are correlated with environmental characteristics using statistical models such as regression. However, many of these relationships are explicitly described in mechanistic simulation models. Therefore, the mechanistic relationships can, in theory, replace the statistical relationships in DSM. This study aims to develop a mechanistic model to predict soil organic matter (SOM) stocks in Natura2000 areas of the Cantabria region (Spain). The mechanistic model is established in four steps: (a) identify major processes that influence SOM stocks, (b) review existing models describing the major processes and the respective environmental data that they require, (c) establish a database with the required input data, and (d) calibrate the model with field observations. The SOM stocks map resulting from the mechanistic model had a mean error (ME) of −2 t SOM ha−1 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 66 t SOM ha−1. The Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was 0.47 and the amount of variance explained (AVE) was 0.21. The results of the mechanistic model were compared to the results of a statistical model. It turned out that the correlation coefficient between the two SOM stock maps was 0.8. This study illustrated that mechanistic soil models can be used for DSM, which brings new opportunities. Mechanistic models for DSM should be considered for mapping soil characteristics that are difficult to predict by statistical models, and for extrapolation purposes.

Highlights

Theoretically, mechanistic models can replace the statistical relationships in digital soil mapping.

Mechanistic soil models were used to develop a mechanistic model for digital soil mapping that predicted SOM stocks.

The applicability of the mechanistic approach needs to be explored for different soil properties and regions.
Trajectories of quality of life 10 years following a diagnosis of epilepsy in childhood
Authors: Puka Klajdi , Ferro Mark A. , Camfield Carol S. , Levin Simon D. , Smith Mary Lou , Wiebe Samuel , Zou Guangyong , Anderson Kelly K. , Speechley Kathy N.
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study estimated trajectories of health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) over a 10‐year period among children newly diagnosed with epilepsy. We also modeled the characteristics of children, parents, and families associated with each identified trajectory.

Methods

Data came from the HERQULES (Health‐Related Quality of Life in Children With Epilepsy Study), a Canada‐wide prospective cohort study of children (aged 4‐12 years) with newly diagnosed epilepsy. Parents reported on their children's HRQOL at diagnosis, and at 0.5‐, 1‐, 2‐, 8‐, and 10‐year follow‐ups using the Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire–55. Trajectories of HRQOL were identified using latent class growth models. Characteristics of children, parents, and families at the time of diagnosis that were associated with each trajectory were identified using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

A total of 367 children were included. Four unique HRQOL trajectories were identified; 11% of the cohort was characterized by low and stable scores, 18% by intermediate and stable scores, 35% by intermediate scores that increased then plateaued, and 43% by high scores that increased then plateaued. Absence of comorbidities, less severe epilepsy, and better family environment (greater satisfaction with family relationships and fewer family demands) at the time of diagnosis were associated with better long‐term HRQOL trajectories. Although the analyses used estimates for missing values and accounted for any nonrandom attrition, the proportion of children with poorer HRQOL trajectories may be underestimated.

Significance

Children with new onset epilepsy are heterogenous and follow unique HRQOL trajectories over the long term. Overall, HRQOL improves for the majority in the first 2 years after diagnosis, with these improvements sustained over the long term.
Crooked tail carriage in horses: Increased prevalence in lame horses and those with thoracolumbar epaxial muscle tension or sacroiliac joint region pain
Authors: Hibbs K. C. , Jarvis G. E. , Dyson S. J.
Published: June 2020

The relationship between lameness and crooked tail carriage (CTC) in horses is unclear. The objectives of this study were (i) to determine the association between CTC and lameness; (ii) among lame horses, to determine associations between CTC and lameness diagnosis, saddle slip, thoracolumbar range of motion (ROM), epaxial muscle tension and pain, and sacroiliac joint region (SIJR) pain, and (iii) to determine whether abolition of lameness and SIJR pain by diagnostic anaesthesia modified CTC. In this study, 520 lame and 170 nonlame sports horses were examined for CTC and other characteristics by one clinician (S.J.D.). All horses were evaluated when ridden. Lame horses were also assessed in hand and on the lunge. Crooked tail carriage, its direction, lameness, musculoskeletal and tack‐related parameters were recorded as binary variables and analysed using 2 × 2 contingency tables. Sacroiliac joint region pain was diagnosed using local anaesthesia. Standard errors are shown in square brackets. 32.5% of lame horses had CTC, compared with 5.3% of nonlame horses (odds ratio = 8.6 [confidence intervals 4.4, 16.7]; P = 2×10−12). Of 169 lame horses with CTC, 103 (60.9% [3.8%]) held their tail to the left. There was no association between the side of the predominant lame limb and CTC direction. However, CTC was more common (P = 0.005) in horses with hindlimb lameness (35.7% [2.4%], N = 401) compared with forelimb lameness (21.0% [4.1%], N = 100). Crooked tail carriage was associated with SIJR pain (P = 0.0007) and thoracolumbar epaxial muscle tension (P = 0.0007), but not with saddle slip, reduced thoracolumbar ROM or thoracolumbar epaxial muscle pain. Limitations of the study included the facts that nonlame horses were a convenience sample and lameness assessment, other clinical observations and determination of the presence of CTC were subjective, with potential for bias. Video recordings and photographs are available for verification of tail position. It was concluded that CTC is more prevalent in lame horses than nonlame horses. There is a positive association between CTC and hindlimb lameness, SIJR pain and thoracolumbar epaxial muscle tension.
Understanding the significance of cytokines and chemokines in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata
Authors: Ito Taisuke , Kageyama Reiko , Nakazawa Shinsuke , Honda Tetsuya
Published: June 2020

Alopecia areata has basically been understood as a type 1 inflammatory disease. Activated NKG2D+CD8+ cells produce the Th1 cytokine interferon‐γ, which leads to the disruption of immune tolerance of hair follicles and the exposure of self‐antigens. This results in dense inflammatory cell infiltration and apoptosis around hair follicles, inducing hair loss. A well‐known complication of alopecia areata is atopic dermatitis, a typical type 2 inflammatory disease. Hair scientists have shied away from confronting and understanding how alopecia areata, a type 1 inflammatory disease, and atopic dermatitis, a type 2 inflammatory disease, can occur together. This review summarizes the research on the cytokine balance in alopecia areata and then focuses on the classification of the cytokine balance in alopecia areata, including the classification of atopic dermatitis into extrinsic and intrinsic types. Dupilumab reportedly showed dual efficacy in a patient with concomitant atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata, supporting our own experience. Elevated Th2 cytokine levels have also been reported in patients with alopecia areata, with increased serum IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6 levels, high IgE levels and elevated eosinophil levels. Because local immunotherapy is a treatment that induces Th2‐type inflammation, it may worsen the condition of alopecia areata patients with extrinsic atopic dermatitis. It is desirable to select appropriate treatments with consideration of the cytokine balance.
Links Between Work–Family Conflict, Enrichment, and AdolescentWell‐Being: Parents' and Children's Perspectives
Authors: Matias Marisa , Recharte Joana
Published: June 2020

Objective

To analyze both parents' and adolescents' perspectives on work–family conflict (WFC) and enrichment (WFE) and its crossover to adolescent well‐being, via quality of parent–child relationships.

Background

Parents' work and family experiences are associated with parenting and may crossover to adolescent well‐being. Adolescents' outcomes and perceptions about parents' work–family balance have been disregarded, despite acknowledgment of adolescence as a crucial developmental period.

Method

A convenience sample of 209 dual‐earner families including both couple members and their adolescent children (aged 13–18 years) participated. WFC, WFE, and parent–child relationship dimensions (coercion, autonomy support, and warmth) were addressed by both parents' and adolescent perspectives, while adolescent well‐being was assessed using children's report. A nested design and dyadic data analyses with SEM were used.

Results

Mothers' WFC and both parents' WFE were significantly associated with the quality of the relationships with children, and only mothers' WFC was indirectly linked to the well‐being of adolescents. The perceptions of adolescents show that both parents' WFE was linked to the quality of the relationship with children, but only mothers' WFE was indirectly linked to the well‐being of adolescents.

Conclusion

These findings emphasize adolescents' critical perspective over their parents' work–family interface and highlight the importance of considering multiple informants in research.

Implications

Practitioners may use these findings to foster a sensible approach on how the work–family interface interferes with parent–adolescent relationship, diminishing strains rooted on parents' perspective. Discussion groups on work–family linkages and vocational programs that allow adolescents to think critically about their parents' work experiences and how it affects them.
Over‐expression of Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase in mouse cells confers protective effect against oxidative and ER stress‐induced premature senescence
Authors: Nuriliani Ardaning , Nakahata Yasukazu , Ahmed Rezwana , Khaidizar Fiqri D. , Matsui Takaaki , Bessho Yasumasa
Published: June 2020

A main feature of aged organisms is the accumulation of senescent cells. Accumulated senescent cells, especially stress‐induced premature senescent cells, in aged organisms lead to the decline of the regenerative potential and function of tissues. We recently reported that the over‐expression of NAMPT, which is the rate‐limiting enzyme in mammalian NAD+ salvage pathway, delays replicative senescence in vitro. However, whether Nampt‐overexpressing cells are tolerant of stress‐induced premature senescence remains unknown. Here, we show that primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts derived from Nampt‐overexpressing transgenic mice (Nampt Tg‐MEF cells) possess resistance against stress‐induced premature senescence in vitro. We found that higher oxidative or endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is required to induce premature senescence in Nampt Tg‐MEF cells compared to wild‐type cells. Moreover, we found that Nampt Tg‐MEF cells show acute expression of unfolded protein response (UPR)‐related genes, which in turn would have helped to restore proteostasis and avoid cellular senescence. Our results demonstrate that NAMPT/NAD+ axis functions to protect cells not only from replicative senescence, but also from stress‐induced premature senescence in vitro. We anticipate that in vivo activation of NAMPT activity or increment of NAD+ would protect tissues from the accumulation of premature senescent cells, thereby maintaining healthy aging.
Gendering the digitalized metal industry
Authors: Johansson Janet , Asztalos Morell Ildikó , Lindell Eva
Published: June 2020

With an empirical investigation of the Swedish metal industry, this study explores the gendering of metalwork in the context of digitalization. Adopting Butler’s notions of gender performativity, and taking a broad feminist perspective, our analysis renders the following findings: first, inequality in the workplace between normative masculine and feminine characteristics is still present in the metal industry. The dominant exploitative expectations of masculine physical strength are gradually being replaced by the persistent masculine association with technology. Both men and women contribute to the confirmation and strengthening of this new masculine attribute. Second, women, through the construction of their sense of self as competent digital steelworkers, take on a vital role in re‐formulating the gender script of the digitalized metal industry. By enacting stereotypical feminine aesthetic gestures, using ‘housewifely’ metaphors parodying masculine discourses, and through deliberately connecting feminine attributes with competences and strengths in technology, female operators subvert the ideal image of a metalworker and disrupt the persistent myth of femininity as being incompatible with technology.
The effect of antibiotic resistance on Helicobacter pylori eradication efficacy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zou Yunzhi , Qian Xing , Liu Xiaoqun , Song YanPing , Song Conghua , Wu Shuang , An Ying , Yuan Rui , Wang Youhua , Xie Yong
Published: June 2020

Background

The occurrence of antibiotic‐resistant strains has been rapidly increasing due to the wide use of antibiotics. To evaluate the current effects of antibiotic resistance on Helicobacter pylori eradication efficacy, we conducted this systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Literature searches were conducted in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 12.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).

Results

A total of 120 studies, including 28 707 patients, were assessed. Only first‐line therapy was considered. The pooled RR of eradication rate in patients with Helicobacter pylori strains sensitive versus resistant to clarithromycin was 0.682 (95% CI: 0.636‐0.731). The pooled RR of eradication rate in patients with Helicobacter pylori strains sensitive versus resistant to metronidazole was 0.843 (95% CI: 0.810‐0.877). The pooled RR of eradication rate in patients with Helicobacter pylori strains sensitive versus resistant to levofloxacin was 0.794 (95% CI: 0.669‐0.941). The pooled RR of eradication rate in patients with Helicobacter pylori strains sensitive versus resistant to dual clarithromycin and metronidazole was 0.674 (95% CI: 0.590‐0.770).

Conclusion

Antibiotic resistance causes a decrease in the eradication rate of H pylori today. Quadruple concomitant therapy may overcome the declining H pylori eradication rate caused by metronidazole‐only resistance.
Effects of aggregate/matrix‐phase ratio on the in‐situ synthesis of SiC whiskers and properties of reaction‐bonded SiC
Authors: Li Yage , Lao Xinbin , Wang Tao , Liu Jianmin , Jiang Feng , Feng Guo , Jiang Weihui , Tang Huidong
Published: June 2020

Reaction‐bonded silicon carbide (RBSC) materials were synthesized by a carbon‐buried firing method, using α‐SiC powders with different sizes as aggregates, while silicon and graphite powders as matrix‐phase materials for in‐situ synthesis of β‐SiC. The effect of the mass ratio of α‐SiC aggregate to β‐SiC matrix‐phase on the in‐situ synthesis of β‐SiC whiskers was investigated and the optimum mass ratio was determined according to the properties of RBSC materials. The phase compositions, microstructure, and properties of the RBSC materials were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM), respectively. The results showed that the decreasing aggregate/matrix‐phase ratio could increase the yield and aspect ratio of β‐SiC whiskers by improving the amount of pores and SiO2 content. The β‐SiC whiskers with stacking faults grew along [111] direction. The in‐situ formed β‐SiC whiskers and SiO2 in the matrix‐phase enhanced the hot modulus of rupture (HMOR) of the RBSC materials, and the sample with the aggregate/matrix‐phase ratio of 70:30 showed the highest cold modulus of rupture (CMOR) of 53.3 MPa, high HMOR of 43.3 MPa, and medium water absorption of 13.8%.
Serotonin in the rat prefrontal cortex controls the micturition reflex through 5‐hydroxytryptamine 2A and 5‐hydroxytryptamine 7 receptors
Authors: Chiba Hiroki , Kitta Takeya , Ohmura Yu , Higuchi Madoka , Kon Masafumi , Nakamura Michiko , Yoshioka Mitsuhiro , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To identify the types of serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine) receptors of the prefrontal cortex related to the micturition reflex.

Methods

Female Sprague–Dawley rats and a microinjection method were used for this study. Stainless steel guide cannulas were implanted bilaterally into the prefrontal cortex, and a polyethylene catheter was inserted into the bladder. Cystometric parameters (intercontraction interval and maximum voiding pressure) were measured before and after injection of any one of six specific antagonists of 5‐hydroxytriptamine receptors (5‐hydroxytryptamine 1A, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 2A, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 2C, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 3, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 4 and 5‐hydroxytryptamine 7) into the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex was divided into two regions, namely the prelimbic cortex and the infralimbic cortex. The experiments were carried out in conscious and free‐moving rats.

Results

The intercontraction interval value increased significantly after injection of the 5‐hydroxytriptamine 2A receptor antagonist, MDL11939, into the prelimbic cortex of the rat prefrontal cortex (7.68 ± 1.28 vs 9.02 ± 1.41 min, P < 0.05), whereas the intercontraction interval value decreased significantly after injection of the 5‐hydroxytriptamine 7 antagonist SB269970 into the prelimbic cortex (9.42 ± 0.39 vs 8.14 ± 0.71 min, P < 0.05). The intercontraction interval was unaffected by injection of either of these two antagonists into the infralimbic cortex. The other four antagonists (5‐hydroxytryptamine 1A, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 2C, 5‐hydroxytryptamine 3 and 5‐hydroxytryptamine 4) had no effect on the intercontraction interval after injection into the prelimbic cortex and the infralimbic cortex. The maximum voiding pressure was unaffected by injection of any one of the six 5‐hydroxytriptamine antagonists into the prelimbic cortex and infralimbic cortex.

Conclusions

In the rat prefrontal cortex5‐hydroxytryptamine 2A receptors excite the micturition reflex, whereas 5‐hydroxytryptamine 7 receptors inhibit this reflex.
Infants’ sensitivity to shape changes in 2D visual forms
Authors: Dillon Moira R. , Izard Véronique , Spelke Elizabeth S.
Published: June 2020

Research in developmental cognitive science reveals that human infants perceive shape changes in 2D visual forms that are repeatedly presented over long durations. Nevertheless, infants’ sensitivity to shape under the brief conditions of natural viewing has been little studied. Three experiments tested for this sensitivity by presenting 128 seven‐month‐old infants with shapes for the briefer durations under which they might see them in dynamic scenes. The experiments probed infants’ sensitivity to two fundamental geometric properties of scale‐ and orientation‐invariant shape: relative length and angle. Infants detected shape changes in closed figures, which presented changes in both geometric properties. Infants also detected shape changes in open figures differing in angle when figures were presented at limited orientations. In contrast, when open figures were presented at unlimited orientations, infants detected changes in relative length but not in angle. The present research therefore suggests that, as infants look around at the cluttered and changing visual world, relative length is the primary geometric property by which they perceive scale‐ and orientation‐invariant shape.
‘Twin Sun’: A Simple Lunar Eclipse Predictor
Authors: Clausen Claus
Published: June 2020

A simple method to predict lunar eclipses proposed in this article uses the position of the full moon relative to the sun. Calculations show that the method works better during the summer period in Scandinavia simply because the night is shorter and therefore the moon is closer to the exact time of the lunar eclipse when the moon rises as the sun is setting. When the conditions are right, the moon reflects the red colour of the setting sun. The two celestial bodies look within a short time as similar objects, like twins or ‘Twin Sun’ (TS). This article aims to demonstrate that TS is a useful method to predict lunar eclipses during the summer period at Northern latitudes. It will be discussed that TS as a lunar eclipse predictor could partly explain the alignment of some megalithic monuments in Denmark constructed from c. 3300-3100 BC. Finally, it is suggested that TS could be an explanation behind the doubleness reflected in the construction of the Danish passage graves. Some archaeological finds seemingly also render the TS phenomenon.
Fishers of The Corded Ware Culture in The Eastern Baltic
Authors: Piličiauskas Gytis , Kluczynska Grażyna , Kisielienė Dalia , Skipitytė Raminta , Peseckas Kęstutis , Matuzevičiūtė Simona , Lukešová Hana , Lucquin Alexandre , Craig Oliver E. , Robson Harry K.
Published: June 2020

Between 2800 and 2400 cal BC pastoralists from Central Europe migrated into the eastern Baltic paving the way for the Corded Ware Culture (CWC), and a new type of economy, animal husbandry. Traditionally the CWC people were viewed as highly mobile due to the lack of substantial traces of dwellings and material culture at settlement sites; they were reliant on an economy based on animal husbandry as demonstrated by zooarchaeological and stable isotopic evidence. However, this paradigm is beginning to shift. Here, we present new AMS radiocarbon (14C) measurements, pollen and macrobotanical data from sediment samples and a portable fish screen, as well as technological, molecular and isotopic data obtained from ceramic vessels from three CWC sites in the eastern Baltic. Overall, our results indicate a de-Neolithisation process undergone by some CWC groups, particularly in lacustrine and coastal ecotones, and a shift to hunting, gathering and fishing.
Differences in the contributions of sex linkage and androgen regulation to sex‐biased gene expression in juvenile and adult sticklebacks
Authors: Kitano Jun , Kakioka Ryo , Ishikawa Asano , Toyoda Atsushi , Kusakabe Makoto
Published: June 2020

Different evolutionary interests between males and females can lead to the evolution of sexual dimorphism. However, intersex genetic correlations due to the shared genome can constrain the evolution of sexual dimorphism, resulting in intra‐locus sexual conflict. One of the mechanisms resolving this conflict is sex linkage, which allows males and females to carry different alleles on sex chromosomes. Another is a regulatory mutation causing sex‐biased gene expression, which is often mediated by gonadal steroids in vertebrates. How do these two mechanisms differ in the contributions to the resolution of intra‐locus sexual conflict? The magnitude of sexual conflict often varies between the juvenile and adult stages. Because gonadal steroids change in titre during development, we hypothesized that gonadal steroids play a role in sexual dimorphism expression only at certain developmental stages, whereas sex linkage is more important for sexual dimorphism expressed throughout life. Our brain transcriptome analysis of juvenile and adult threespine sticklebacks showed that the majority of genes that were sex‐biased in both stages were sex‐linked. The relative contribution of androgen‐dependent regulation to the sex‐biased transcriptome increased and that of sex linkage declined in adults compared to juveniles. The magnitude of the sex differences was greater in sex‐linked genes than androgen‐responsive genes, suggesting that sex linkage is more effective than androgen regulation in the production of large sex differences in gene expression. Overall, our data are consistent with the hypothesis that sex linkage is effective in resolving sexual conflict throughout life, whereas androgen‐dependent regulation can contribute to temporary resolution of sexual conflict.
Reply to: “Zooming” in the Anterior Thigh Muscle for the Diagnosis of Sarcopenia
Authors: Bhasin Shalender , Cawthon Peggy M.
Published: June 2020

This letter comments on the letter by Ayse Merve Ata.
Nurses’ experiences and perspectives on collaborative discharge planning when patients receiving palliative care for cancer are discharged home from hospitals
Authors: Lundereng Elias David , Dihle Alfhild , Steindal Simen A.
Published: June 2020

Aims and objectives

To explore nurses’ experiences and perspectives on discharge collaboration when patients receiving palliative care for cancer are discharged home from hospitals.

Background

Patients receiving palliative care for cancer experience multiple transitions between the hospital and their home. Poor discharge collaboration is a major cause of preventable hospital readmissions. Collaborative discharge planning could improve the care for these patients outside the hospital setting. Previous research has mostly been conducted in noncancer populations. Further research regarding both home care nurses’ and hospital nurses’ perspectives on care transitions is required.

Design

A qualitative study with descriptive and explorative design.

Methods

Data were collected through 10 individual, semi‐structured interviews of nurses working at two oncology wards at a university hospital and home care services in four municipalities within the hospital's catchment area. Data were analysed using systematic text condensation. COREQ guidelines were adhered to in the reporting of this study.

Results

Three categories emerged from the data analysis: lack of familiarity and different perceptions lead to distrust; inefficient communication creates a need for informal collaboration; and delayed discharge planning challenges collaboration.

Conclusions

The nurses lacked an understanding of each other's work situation, which created distrust, misunderstandings and misconceptions regarding each other's abilities to care for the patient. This led to inefficient communication, relying on individual knowledge, informal communication and personal networking. Delays in the discharge planning resulted in poorly prepared discharges often lacking necessary equipment and documentation.

Relevance to clinical practice

To improve the care of patients receiving palliative care for cancer outside the hospital setting, better communication is a key factor to promote confidence and understanding between nurses working in different settings of health care.
Learning‐Challenged Youth Show an Abnormal Relationship Between Fronto‐Parietal Myelination and Mathematical Ability
Authors: Denyer Ronan , Morris Sarah R. , Greeley Brian , Ferris Jennifer K. , White Katherine , Laule Cornelia , Boyd Lara A. , Weber Rachel C.
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Differences in the microstructure of fronto‐parietal white matter tracts have been associated with mathematical achievement. However, much of the supporting evidence relies on nonspecific diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging, making it difficult to isolate the role of myelin in math ability.

METHODS

We used myelin water imaging to measure brain myelin. We related myelin water fraction (MWF) to Woodcock‐Johnson III (WJ‐III) basic math scores using region of interest (ROI) and tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS) analyses, in 14 typically developing and 36 learning challenged youth aged 9‐17 years.

RESULTS

The ROI analysis found a positive relationship between fronto‐parietal MWF and math in typically developing youth, but not in learning challenged youth. The relationship between fronto‐parietal MWF and math observed in typically developing youth was fully mediated by age. No group differences in fronto‐parietal MWF were found between typically developing and learning challenged youth. TBSS also found no group differences in MWF values. TBSS indicated math‐MWF relationships extend beyond fronto‐parietal tracts to descending and ascending projection tracts in typically developing youth. TBSS identified math‐MWF relationships in the cerebral peduncles of learning challenged youth.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that in typically developing youth, brain myelination contributes to individual differences in basic math achievement. In contrast, youth with learning challenges appear to have less capacity to leverage myelin to improve math achievement.
Perineural invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma: Incidence, prognostic impact and molecular insight
Authors: Alkhadar Huda , Macluskey Michaelina , White Sharon , Ellis Ian
Published: June 2020

Background

The objective of this study was to characterise the incidence and prognostic correlation of perineural invasion (PNI) in oral squamous cell carcinoma and determine whether nerve growth factor and its receptor tyrosine Kinase A expression could be used as biological markers for PNI.

Methods

A retrospective review of pathology reports of 430 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who were treated from 1992 to 2014 in Tayside, Scotland, was carried out. The expression of nerve growth factor and tyrosine kinase A was assessed with immunohistochemistry in 132 tissue sections of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Results

Perineural invasion was identified in 17.4% of oral squamous cell carcinomas. High expression of nerve growth factor and tyrosine kinase A was seen in 84% and 92% of oral squamous cell carcinoma, respectively. Tumours with PNI expressed nerve growth factor and tyrosine kinase A with a greater frequency than tumours without PNI. PNI and high expression of nerve growth factor were significantly associated with pain. PNI was significantly associated with stage IV tumours and poor disease‐specific survival.

Conclusions

A higher level of expression of nerve growth factor and tyrosine kinase A may predict PNI and therefore may be considered as biological markers for PNI in oral squamous cell carcinoma. PNI and nerve growth factor overexpression may contribute to the pain generation in oral cancer patients. PNI and nerve growth factor expression can predict the aggressiveness and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma patients.
Subverting the Mandates of Our Methods: Tensions and Considerations for Incorporating Reproductive Justice Frameworks into Psychological Science
Authors: Avery Lanice R. , Stanton Alexis G.
Published: June 2020

Psychological science has had a long history of both being in collusion with and resisting the colonial and violent nature of White supremacy in the academy. The field of psychology has culpability in creating and maintaining dominant narratives that have served to justify the dehumanization of marginalized groups, particularly in regards to the methodologies used. Meaningfully integrating reproductive justice (RJ) frameworks into psychological science can drive the development of interventions for using empiricism in the service of justice for systemically vulnerable groups. This paper examines how RJ offers psychological science methodological interventions that interrogate, expose, and challenge hegemonic discourses and policies that have functioned to disempower systemically vulnerable groups.
Detection of silent reflux events by nuclear scintigraphy in healthy dogs
Authors: Grobman Megan E. , Maitz Charles A. , Reinero Carol R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Reflux and aspiration in people are associated with respiratory disease, whereas approximately 50% of healthy adults microaspirate without apparent consequence. In dogs, analogous information is lacking.

Hypothesis

Healthy dogs commonly have gastroesophageal reflux and a proportion of these dogs will have laryngopharyngeal reflux with silent aspiration.

Animals

Twelve healthy, client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Prospective study: Dogs were free‐fed a meal containing (111 MBq) colloidal 99m‐technetium phytate. Dynamic‐scans were performed 5 and 30 minutes postingestion. Time‐activity curves, reflux margination, volume, frequency, and duration were evaluated over 7 regions of interest in dorsal ± left‐lateral recumbency. Static scans (dorsal recumbency) were performed 2 and 18 hours postfeeding to detect aspiration. Reflux and aspiration were defined as counts ≥200% background activity ± decreased gastric counts. Between‐group comparisons were performed by Wilcoxon rank‐sum test or one‐way ANOVA on ranks with significance of P < .05.

Results

In this study, reflux of variable magnitude was detected in 12/12 dogs. No significant differences in outcome parameters were detected with recumbency (P > .05). Margination to the pharynx and proximal, middle, and distal esophagus was identified in 5/12, 2/12, 3/12, and 2/12 dogs, respectively. Median (IQR) reflux frequency and duration were 2 events/5 minutes (1‐3.3 events/5 minutes) and 6 seconds (4‐9 seconds) respectively. No dog had detectable aspiration.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Nuclear scintigraphy can document reflux in dogs. Reflux, but not aspiration, is common in healthy dogs and must be considered when interpreting results in clinically affected dogs.
Proteomic analysis of Fusobacterium nucleatum growth in biofilm versus planktonic state
Authors: Llama‐Palacios Arancha , Potupa Oksana , Sánchez María C. , Figuero Elena , Herrera David , Sanz Mariano
Published: June 2020

Fusobacterium nucleatum is isolated from both supra‐ and sub‐gingival dental biofilms in humans and has been implicated in the aetiology of periodontitis. Also, this bacterium plays an important role in serious infections in other parts of the body. The aim of this investigation was to study the protein differential expression of F. nucleatum when growing on biofilm, compared to planktonic state, using proteomic analysis by the 2D‐DIGE™ system. In all, 68 proteins were differentially expressed during biofilm growth (1.5‐fold, p < .05), being 20 downexpressed and 31 overexpressed. The repressed proteins belonged to metabolism, biosynthesis and were outer membrane proteins (OMPs); and overexpressed were proteins involved in metabolism, transcription, translation, transport and proteins with unknown function. Also, of the seven enzymes that regulate the synthesis of butyrate, six of them were differentially expressed (overexpressed and downexpressed) when the bacteria were forming biofilms. The enzymatic activities of two of the enzymes in the butyrate pathway were analysed when the bacteria were growing in biofilms or in planktonic growth. All these results confirmed that this metabolic pathway is important in the formation of the biofilm of F. nucleatum and in its pathogenicity, both in the oral cavity and in other locations of the body.
When experiences of presence go awry: A survey on psychotherapy practice with the ambivalent‐to‐distressing ‘hallucination’ of the deceased
Authors: Sabucedo Pablo , Evans Chris , Gaitanidis Anastasios , Hayes Jacqueline
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Experiences of presence, involving the sensory perception or felt presence of the deceased, are common amongst the bereaved (30–60%). Despite them being predominantly comforting and reassuring, a minority (approximately 25%) report ambivalent or distressing experiences. The study’s aim was to explore how psychotherapy is practised with this subset.

Method

A mixed‐method approach, involving both quantitative analysis and thematic analysis, was used to analyse data from an online survey, conducted in English and Spanish, amongst mental health therapists (i.e., psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors). Seventy responded to the survey and four of them were further interviewed.

Results

The participants primarily framed interventions for ambivalent‐to‐distressing experiences of presence as grief therapy, with the severity of the presentation as the main factor influencing their clinical decision‐making, but several perspectives co‐existed regarding how to intervene. These discourses were categorized into two themes: ‘A normalising and exploratory psychotherapy’ and ‘A grief stages psychotherapy’. The main sources of patient’s distress, as understood by the sample, were located in the bereaved–departed relationship, in pre‐existing mental health issues, and in a societal taboo or stigma.

Conclusion

After comparing and contrasting the participants’ working hypotheses with existing knowledge on experiences of presence, and contemporary theories in the research area, guidelines are presented on how to intervene with people disturbed by their experiences of presence.

Practitioner points

Perceiving the deceased person, or feeling their presence, is common and normal amongst bereaved people.

When these experiences are distressing or ambivalent, therapists’ share that psychological suffering may originate from the departed–bereaved relationship, pre‐existing mental health issues, or the effect of societal taboo or stigma.

Psychotherapy is frequently aimed at normalizing, accepting, supporting, and exploring patient’s experience
Rational Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Indole Nitrogen Hybrids as Photosystem II Inhibitors
Authors: de Souza Jéssica Maria , Fazolo Bruno Rodrigues , Lacerda Jhully Wellen Ferreira , Moura Mariana de Souza , dos Santos Arielly Celestino Rodrigues , de Vasconcelos Leonardo Gomes , de Sousa Junior Paulo Teixeira , Dall’Oglio Evandro Luiz , Ali Akbar , Sampaio Olívia Moreira , Vieira Lucas Campos Curcino
Published: June 2020

We report the synthesis of twelve indole derivatives bearing nitro or amide groups via Fischer indole methodology followed by reduction/acetylation and amidation reactions. After thorough characterization, these indoles were subjected to a number of studies in order to evaluate their bioactive potential as photosynthesis and plant growth inhibitors. Firstly, these molecular hybrids were evaluated as photosystem II (PSII) inhibitors through chlorophyll a (Chl a) fluorescence measurement. In this study, 6‐chloro‐8‐nitro‐2,3,4,9‐tetrahydro‐1H‐carbazole (15a) and 5‐chloro‐2,3‐dimethyl‐7‐nitro‐1H‐indole (15b) showed the best results by reducing the phenomenological parameters of reaction centers ABS/RC, TR0/RC and ET0/RC of PSII. Electron chain blockage by these compounds may lead to diminished ATP synthesis and CO2 fixation which interrupt the plant development. The compounds 15a and 15b both act as postemergent herbicides, reducing the dry biomass of Ipomoea grandifolia and Senna alata weeds by an average of 40% and 37%, respectively, corroborating the fluorescence results. Additionally, the molecular docking study revealed that the presence of strong electron‐withdrawing groups at the indole phenyl ring is important for the ligand’s interaction with the binding pocket of protein D1 on PSII. The optimization of these molecular features is the goal of our research group in further understanding and development of new potent herbicides.
Effect of Nail Thickness on Visible Radiation Transmittance: Implications for New Photodynamic Therapy Technologies in Onychomycosis
Authors: de Gálvez Enrique Navarrete‐ , Aguilera José , de Gálvez María Victoria , Fonda‐Pascual Pablo , Herrera‐Ceballos Enrique , Gago‐Calderón Alfonso
Published: June 2020

Photodynamic therapy is taking importance as a nonintrusive treatment for nail onychomycosis. Knowledge of true transmittance values across nails could lead to qualitative and quantitative improvements in light‐based treatments. We have characterized the spectral transmittance of healthy and fungally infected human fingernails and toenails according to nail thickness, and we propose a surface transmittance model for the small‐scale optimization of light‐based treatments. Transmittance of fingernails and toenails was analyzed by means of spectroradiometric measurements under solar‐simulated visible light radiation (400 nm to 750 nm). The nail thickness was measured by means of microscope measurement. Transmittance was highest at longer wavelengths and decreased gradually as the wavelengths became shorter but with a significant nail transmittance of around 20% in the blue region of the spectrum. In the case of nails affected by onychomycosis, transmittance fell to under 10% because of the thickness of the nails, with no changes in spectral characteristics of transmitted light. Nail thickness is the main variable controlling exponentially light transmission in the visible spectrum and not only red radiation is effective for nail onychomycosis PDT. Blue light, the spectral band more effective for PPIX absorption is also effectively transmitted.
Making the Indebted Citizen: An Inquiry into State Benevolence in Turkey
Authors: Yoltar Çağrı
Published: June 2020

This article concerns the making of the indebted citizen in Turkey through state benevolence. It focuses on the materialization of a debt relationship between state and citizen in everyday workings of state‐sponsored welfare programs in the Kurdish region, in the shadow of a protracted armed conflict between the Turkish military forces and the Partiya Karkerên Kurdistan (Kurdistan Workers’ Party). In Turkey, as in many other places, welfare benefits are promoted as a state benevolence rather than a citizenship right, and many officials seek to ensure that beneficiaries are credible enough to honor their debts to the state in the form of loyalty and obedience. Examining bureaucratic processes of beneficiary selection, I demonstrate how a dialectic of generous giving and forceful taking congeals in welfare distribution, compelling compliant behavior among the beneficiaries through the power of debt. I argue that what seems to be a free provision by the Turkish state—social assistance—often operates as a mechanism of debt production in practice—another form of political and economic dispossession for the Kurds in Turkey.