bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatty Acid Data and Crop Surveys Indicate Sources of Red Sunflower Seed Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Populations and Suggest Strategies for Management
Authors: Prasifka Jarrad R , Ferguson Beth , Anderson James V
Published: November 2020

The red sunflower seed weevil, Smicronyx fulvus L., is a univoltine seed-feeding pest of cultivated sunflower, Helianthus annuus L. Artificial infestations of S. fulvus onto sunflowers with traditional (<25% oleic acid), mid-oleic (55–75%), or high oleic (>80%) fatty acid profiles were used to test if fatty acids could be used as natural markers to estimate the proportion of weevils developing on oilseed sunflowers rather than wild Helianthus spp. and confection (non-oil) types. Oleic acid (%) in S. fulvus confirmed the fatty acid compositions of mature larvae and weevil adults reflected their diets, making primary (oleic or linoleic) fatty acids feasible as natural markers for this crop-insect combination. Oleic acid in wild S. fulvus populations in North Dakota suggests at least 84 and 90% of adults originated from mid-oleic or high oleic sunflower hybrids in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Surveys in 2017 (n = 156 fields) and 2019 (n = 120 fields) extended information provided by S. fulvus fatty acid data; no significant spatial patterns of S. fulvus damage were detected in samples, damage to oilseed sunflowers was greater than confection (non-oil) types, and the majority of damage occurred in ≈10% of surveyed fields. Combined, data suggest a few unmanaged or mismanaged oilseed sunflower fields are responsible for producing most S. fulvus in an area. Improved management seems possible with a combination of grower education and expanded use of non-insecticidal tactics, including cultural practices and S. fulvus-resistant hybrids.
Brugada syndrome genetics is associated with phenotype severity
Authors: Ciconte Giuseppe , Monasky Michelle M , Santinelli Vincenzo , Micaglio Emanuele , Vicedomini Gabriele , Anastasia Luigi , Negro Gabriele , Borrelli Valeria , Giannelli Luigi , Santini Francesca , de Innocentiis Carlo , Rondine Roberto , Locati Emanuela T , Bernardini Andrea , Mazza Beniamino C , Mecarocci Valerio , Ćalović Žarko , Ghiroldi Andrea , D’Imperio Sara , Benedetti Sara , Di Resta Chiara , Rivolta Ilaria , Casari Giorgio , Petretto Enrico , Pappone Carlo
Published: November 2020

Aims 

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) in young, otherwise healthy individuals. Despite SCN5A being the most commonly known mutated gene to date, the genotype–phenotype relationship is poorly understood and remains uncertain. This study aimed to elucidate the genotype–phenotype correlation in BrS.

Methods and results

Brugada syndrome probands deemed at high risk of future arrhythmic events underwent genetic testing and phenotype characterization by the means of epicardial arrhythmogenic substrate (AS) mapping, and were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of SCN5A mutation. Two-hundred probands (160 males, 80%; mean age 42.6 ± 12.2 years) were included in this study. Patients harbouring SCN5A mutations exhibited a spontaneous type 1 pattern and experienced aborted cardiac arrest or spontaneous VT/VF more frequently than the other subjects. SCN5A-positive patients exhibited a larger epicardial AS area, more prolonged electrograms and more frequently observed non-invasive late potentials. The presence of an SCN5A mutation explained >26% of the variation in the epicardial AS area and was the strongest predictor of a large epicardial area.

Conclusion 

In BrS, the genetic background is the main determinant for the extent of the electrophysiological abnormalities. SCN5A mutation carriers exhibit more pronounced epicardial electrical abnormalities and a more aggressive clinical presentation. These results contribute to the understanding of the genetic determinants of the BrS phenotypic expression and provide possible explanations for the varying degrees of disease expression.
Acuity Differences Among Newly Admitted Older Residents in Rural and Urban Nursing Homes
Authors: Jonk Yvonne , Thayer Deborah , Mauney Karen , Croll Zachariah , McGuire Catherine , Coburn Andrew F
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

Our primary objective was to assess rural–urban acuity differences among newly admitted older nursing home residents.

Research Design and Methods

Data included the 2015 Minimum Data Set v3.0, the Area Health Resources File, the Provider of Services File, and Rural–Urban Commuting Area codes. Activities of daily living, the Cognitive Function Scale, and aggression/wandering indicators were used to assess functional, cognitive, and behavioral status, respectively. Excluding assessments for short stays (less than 90 days), assessments for 209,719 newly admitted long-stay residents aged 65 and older across 14,834 facilities in 47 states were evaluated. Difference in differences (DID) generalized linear models with state-fixed effects and clustering by facilities were used to assess the interaction effect of older age (75 plus) on rural–urban acuity differences, controlling for socioeconomic factors, admission source, and market characteristics.

Results

Residents admitted to rural facilities were less functionally impaired (incidence rate ratio: 0.973–0.898) but had more cognitive (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03–1.22) and problem behaviors (OR: 1.19–1.48) than urban. Although older age was predictive of higher acuity, in DID models, the expected decline in functional status was comparable in rural and urban facilities, while the cognitive and behavioral status for older admissions was 8.0% and 8.5% lower in rural versus urban facilities, respectively.

Discussion and Implications

Although the higher prevalence of cognitive impairment and problem behaviors among rural admissions was attributable in part to older age, rural facilities admitted less complex individuals among older age residents than urban facilities. Findings may reflect less capacity to manage older, complex individuals in rural facilities.
Stress drop–magnitude dependence of acoustic emissions during laboratory stick-slip
Authors: Blanke Aglaja , Kwiatek Grzegorz , Goebel Thomas H W , Bohnhoff Marco , Dresen Georg
Published: November 2020

Earthquake source parameters such as seismic stress drop and corner frequency are observed to vary widely, leading to persistent discussion on potential scaling of stress drop and event size. Physical mechanisms that govern stress drop variations are difficult to evaluate in nature and are more readily studied in controlled laboratory experiments. We perform two stick-slip experiments on fractured (rough) and cut (smooth) Westerly granite samples to explore fault roughness effects on acoustic emission (AE) source parameters. We separate large stick-slip events that generally saturate the seismic recording system from populations of smaller AE events which are sensitive to fault stresses prior to slip. AE event populations show many similarities to natural seismicity and may be interpreted as laboratory equivalent of natural microseismic events. We then compare the temporal evolution of mechanical data such as measured stress release during slip to temporal changes in stress drops derived from AEs using the spectral ratio technique. We report on two primary observations: (1) In contrast to most case studies for natural earthquakes, we observe a strong increase in seismic stress drop with AE size. (2) The scaling of stress drop with magnitude is governed by fault roughness, whereby the rough fault shows a more rapid increase of the stress drop–magnitude relation with progressing large stick-slip events than the smooth fault. The overall range of AE sizes on the rough surface is influenced by both the average grain size and the width of the fault core. The magnitudes of the smallest AE events on smooth faults may also be governed by grain size. However, AEs significantly grow beyond peak roughness and the width of the fault core. Our laboratory tests highlight that source parameters vary substantially in the presence of fault zone heterogeneity (i.e. roughness and narrow grain size distribution), which may affect seismic energy partitioning and static stress drops of small and large AE events.
Anatomical segmentectomy versus pulmonary lobectomy for stage I non-small-cell lung cancer: patients selection and outcomes from the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons database analysis
Authors: Tosi Davide , Nosotti Mario , Bonitta Gianluca , Mendogni Paolo , Bertolaccini Luca , Spaggiari Lorenzo , Brunelli Alex , Ruffini Enrico , Falcoz Pierre Emmanuel
Published: November 2020

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to describe the potential selection criteria for patients scheduled for lobectomy versus segmentectomy for stage I non-small-cell lung cancer and to compare the 2 procedures in terms of intraoperative variables and postoperative outcomes using the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS) Registry.

METHODS

This observational multicentre retrospective cross-sectional study was based on data collected from the ESTS database. The following were set as inclusion criteria: pulmonary lobectomy or segmentectomy for stage I primary lung cancer (according to 8th TNM edition), no previous lung surgery and no induction chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Statistical significance was examined using Mann–Whitney or 2 proportions Z tests.

RESULTS

Among 63 542 patients enrolled in the ESTS database (2007–2018), 17 692 met the inclusion criteria: 15 845 patients received lobectomy and 1847 segmentectomy. Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy and VATS segmentectomy were the 27.8% and 31.9% of the procedures, respectively. Lobectomy group was significantly younger and had a lower American Society of Anaesthesiology (ASA) score, lower comorbidities prevalence and better respiratory function. The segmentectomy group had lower complications rate (25.6% vs 33.8%). When considering only the last 5 years, ASA score was similar between the 2 groups, although pulmonary function remained significantly lower in the segmentectomy group.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the ESTS database, segmentectomy was preferably offered to ‘compromised’ patients, with limited respiratory function, higher ASA score and relevant comorbidities. Nevertheless, the procedure showed lower complications rate and similar short-term outcomes compared to lobectomy. During the last 5 years, segmentectomy appeared to be regarded as a valid alternative, even for selected patients who could tolerate both procedures.
Monogamy in a Moment: How do Brief Social Interactions Change Over Time in Pair-Bonded Zebra Finches (Taeniopygia guttata)?
Authors: Prior Nora H , Smith Edward , Dooling Robert J , Ball Gregory F
Published: November 2020

Synopsis

Research on monogamy has largely focused on marked behaviors that are unique to pair bonded partners. However, these marked behaviors represent only a subset of the pair-directed behaviors that partners engage in; the influence of pair bonding on mundane or subtle social interactions among partners remains largely unknown. In this study, we describe the changes that occur during brief social reunions (or greets) over the course of pair bonding in zebra finches. We quantified pair-directed behavior during 5-min reunions from three stages of pair bonding: initial pairing (between 4 and 72 h), early pairing (1–2 weeks), and late pairing (>1 month). These social interactions were operationalized in multiple ways. First, we quantified the overall activity levels (call and movement rates) for both the male and female. Overall, females were more active than males, but for both males and females calling activity was highest at initial pairing. We quantified behavioral coordination between partners in two ways: (1) similarity in call and movement rates between partners and (2) temporal synchrony of calls and movements between partners (via sliding correlation coefficients of time-stamped calls and movements). Overall, there were no effects of pairing stage on behavioral coordination. Finally, we used principal component analyses to disentangle behavioral coordination from the activity levels of the male and female. These results contribute to a growing line of evidence that male and female zebra finches differentially contribute to social dynamics and highlight the influence of pair bonding on the development of social dynamics. Furthermore, our preliminary analyses raise the hypothesis that behavioral coordination during the earliest phases of pairing is modulated by the extent and nature of prior experience. Overall, while behavioral coordination is clearly important for many salient interactions such as duetting, courtship displays, and biparental care, the significance of mundane social interactions for monogamous partnerships remains largely unknown.
The Presence and Accessibility of Competitive Resources Affect Trapping Efficiency of Spotted-Wing Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae)
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Huang Juan , Grieshop Matthew J
Published: November 2020

Spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii, (Matsumura)) is an invasive vinegar fly that has become a serious threat to soft fruit crops. Monitoring for this pest is typically performed using drowning traps baited with live yeast cultures or fermentation volatile blends. Trapping programs using these compounds provide highly variable results across production systems, geographic regions, and growing seasons. Trap competition with fruit is one hypothesis for this inconsistency. This study evaluated the trapping efficiency of yeast and wine baits in the presence and absence of small quantities of host fruits in two binary-choice laboratory experiments. The first experiment evaluated trap capture in clear 946-ml traps with easily accessible water, apple pomace, blueberry, raspberry, strawberry, cherry, or grape as competitive influences. The second experiment evaluated the same competitors, but they were made less accessible. Recapture of flies in arenas containing competitive fruit was reduced by 64–88% when fruit was ‘accessible’ and from 0 to 51% when it was ‘inaccessible’ compared with arenas containing a water competitor. All fruit types provided statistically similar levels of trap interference. In the first experiment, yeast captured more flies compared with wine, whereas in the second experiment, wine captured more flies than yeast. Our results support the hypothesis that the presence of fruit or other reproductive resources will reduce trap captures and that this reduction is likely mediated by the relative accessibility of the fruit versus the trap. Thus, attempts to develop population estimates based on traps should incorporate fruit availability/accessibility.
Understanding Pediatric Drug Lag Time: Review of Selected Drug Package Inserts
Authors: Beleck Aviva , Nachman Sharon
Published: November 2020

The wait for a pharmaceutical drug to become approved by the FDA for pediatrics lasts approximately 8 years longer than that for adults. One of the reasons given is the concern that simultaneous pediatric and adult trials may affect licensing in adults. We reviewed drug package inserts obtained from the FDA database for 5 selected agents for the years prior to and after being FDA approved for pediatric use. There were no new contraindications, warnings, or adverse events identified during pediatric clinical trials that would have put adult licensure at risk if approval was obtained in parallel for pediatric populations. The few changes in the package inserts in those years were due to ongoing adult clinical trials and post-marking experience in adults. The concern that pediatric trials might affect adult licensure does not appear to be justifiable.
Scaling parameter of the lethal effect of mammalian cells based on radiation-induced OH radicals: effectiveness of direct action in radiation therapy
Authors: Kusumoto Tamon , Ogawara Ryo , Igawa Kazuyo , Baba Kentaro , Konishi Teruaki , Furusawa Yoshiya , Kodaira Satoshi
Published: November 2020

We have been studying the effectiveness of direct action, which induces clustered DNA damage leading to cell killing, relative to indirect action. Here a new criterion Direct Ation-Based Biological Effectiveness (DABBLE) is proposed to understand the contribution of direct action for cell killing induced by C ions. DABBLE is defined as the ratio of direct action to indirect action. To derive this ratio, we describe survival curves of mammalian cells as a function of the number of OH radicals produced 1 ps and 100 ns after irradiation, instead of the absorbed dose. By comparing values on the vertical axis of the survival curves at a certain number of OH radicals produced, we successfully discriminate the contribution of direct action induced by C ions from that of indirect action. DABBLE increases monotonically with increasing linear energy transfer (LET) up to 140 keV/μm and then drops, when the survival curves are described by the number of OH radicals 1 ps after irradiation. The trend of DABBLE is in agreement with that of relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of indirect action. In comparison, the value of DABBLE increases monotonically with LET, when the survival curves are described by the number of OH radicals 100 ns after irradiation. This finding implies that the effectiveness of C ion therapy for cancer depends on the contribution of direct action and we can follow the contribution of direct action over time in the chemical phase.
The WRKY transcription factor AaGSW2 promotes glandular trichome initiation in Artemisia annua
Authors: Xie Lihui , Yan Tingxiang , Li Ling , Chen Minghui , Ma Yanan , Hao Xiaolong , Fu Xueqing , Shen Qian , Huang Yiwen , Qin Wei , Liu Hang , Chen Tiantian , Hassani Danial , Kayani Sadaf-llyas , Rose Jocelyn K C , Tang Kexuan
Published: November 2020

Glandular secreting trichomes (GSTs) synthesize and secrete large quantities of secondary metabolites, some of which have well-established commercial value. An example is the anti-malarial compound artemisinin, which is synthesized in the GSTs of Artemisia annua. Accordingly, there is considerable interest in understanding the processes that regulate GST density as a strategy to increase artemisinin production. In this study, we identified a GST-specific WRKY transcription factor from A. annua, AaGSW2, which is positively regulated by the direct binding of the homeodomain proteins AaHD1 and AaHD8 to the L1-box of the AaGSW2 promoter. Overexpression of AaGSW2 in A. annua significantly increased GST density, while AaGSW2 knockdown lines showed impaired GST initiation. Ectopic expression of AaGSW2 homologs from two mint cultivars, Mentha spicata and Mentha haplocalyx, in A. annua also induced GST formation. These results reveal a molecular mechanism involving homeodomain and WRKY proteins that controls glandular trichome initiation, at least part of which is shared by A. annua and mint.
An Analysis of Exertional Safety After Blood Donation in Active Duty Military Personnel—A Feasibility Study
Authors: Carius Brandon M , Umar Mohamad , Aden James K , Schauer Steve G
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Whole blood (WB) is the optimal resuscitation fluid in hemorrhagic shock. Military research focuses on mortality benefits of WB acquired through walking blood banks (WBBs). Few military-based studies on donation effects exist, almost exclusively performed on small special operation forces. No Department of Defense regulations for postdonation precautions in nonaviation crew members exist. Further study is warranted regarding safety and limitations in postdonation populations.

Materials and Methods

A feasibility (n = 25) prospective interventional study examined the safety of exertion (defined as a 1.6-km treadmill run at volunteers’ minimum passing pace for the Army Physical Fitness Test) following 1 unit of WB donation. Subjects served as their own controls, performing baseline testing 7 days before donation, with repeat testing 1 h following donation conducted by Armed Services Blood Program personnel. Adverse events, pre- and postexertion vital signs (VS) were evaluated.

Results

There were no adverse events throughout testing. Only resting heart rate (68 vs. 73 beats · min−1, p < 0.01) and postexertion heart rate were significantly different among pre- and postdonation VS. Additional significant findings were time to attain postexertion normocardia (116 vs. 147 seconds, p < 0.01). A small but statistically significant change in Borg perceived exertional scores was noted (10.3 vs. 10.8, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This feasibility study demonstrates the first safety test of regular military populations performing exertion immediately following the standardized WB donation. VS changes may translate into a small but significant increase in perceived postdonation exertion. Future studies should expand duration and intensity of exertion to match combat conditions.
How Common Knowledge Is Possible
Authors: Immerman Daniel
Published: November 2020

The two of us commonly know a proposition just in case (i) we both know it, (ii) we both know that we both know it, (iii) we both know that we both know that we both know it, and so on. In a recent paper titled ‘Uncommon Knowledge’, Harvey Lederman (2018) argues against the possibility of common knowledge. His argument rests on the empirical claim that there are minor individual variations in how we perceive things. This motivates a principle about perception: when two people are perceiving something and it perceptually appears a certain way to one of them, then for all that person knows, it perceptually appears a slightly different way to the other. In this paper, I challenge Lederman’s perceptual principle and thereby his argument. In particular, I argue that there are some circumstances in which things perceptually appear a certain way to me and nonetheless I know that they don’t perceptually appear in a slightly different way to you. Indeed, I argue that not only are there exceptions to the perceptual principle, but they are widespread.
The exomoon corridor: Half of all exomoons exhibit TTV frequencies within a narrow window due to aliasing
Authors: Kipping David
Published: November 2020

Exomoons are expected to produce potentially detectable transit timing variations (TTVs) upon their parent planet. Unfortunately, distinguishing moon-induced TTVs from other sources, in particular planet–planet interactions, has severely impeded its usefulness as a tool for identifying exomoon candidates. A key feature of exomoon TTVs is that they will always be undersampled, due to the simple fact that we can only observe the TTVs once per transit/planetary period. We show that it is possible to analytically express the aliased TTV periodicity as a function of planet and moon period. Further, we show that inverting an aliased TTV period back to a true moon period is fraught with hundreds of harmonic modes. However, a unique aspect of these TTV aliases is that they are predicted to occur at consistently short periods, irrespective of what model one assumes for the underlying moon population. Specifically, 50 per cent of all exomoons are expected to induce TTVs with a period between 2 to 4 cycles, a range that planet–planet interactions rarely manifest at. This provides an exciting and simple tool for quickly identifying exomoons candidates and brings the TTV method back to the fore as an exomoon hunting strategy. Applying this method to the candidate, Kepler-1625b i, reveals that its TTV periodicity centres around the median period expected for exomoons.
Characterizing Transcriptional Regulatory Sequences in Coronaviruses and Their Role in Recombination
Authors: Yang Yiyan , Yan Wei , Hall A Brantley , Jiang Xiaofang
Published: November 2020

Novel coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, SARS, and MERS, often originate from recombination events. The mechanism of recombination in RNA viruses is template switching. Coronavirus transcription also involves template switching at specific regions, called transcriptional regulatory sequences (TRS). It is hypothesized but not yet verified that TRS sites are prone to recombination events. Here, we developed a tool called SuPER to systematically identify TRS in coronavirus genomes and then investigated whether recombination is more common at TRS. We ran SuPER on 506 coronavirus genomes and identified 465 TRS-L and 3,509 TRS-B. We found that the TRS-L core sequence (CS) and the secondary structure of the leader sequence are generally conserved within coronavirus genera but different between genera. By examining the location of recombination breakpoints with respect to TRS-B CS, we observed that recombination hotspots are more frequently colocated with TRS-B sites than expected.
Fibrosis and cancer: shared features and mechanisms suggest common targeted therapeutic approaches
Authors: Landolt Lea , Spagnoli Giulio C , Hertig Alexandre , Brocheriou Isabelle , Marti Hans-Peter
Published: November 2020

Epidemiological studies support a strong link between organ fibrosis and epithelial cancers. Moreover, clinical and experimental investigations consistently indicate that these diseases intertwine and share strikingly overlapping features. As a deregulated response to injury occurring in all body tissues, fibrosis is characterized by activation of fibroblasts and immune cells, contributing to progressive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and inflammation. Cancers are driven by genetic alterations resulting in dysregulated cell survival, proliferation and dissemination. However, non-cancerous components of tumour tissues including fibroblasts, inflammatory cells and ECM play key roles in oncogenesis and cancer progression by providing a pro-mutagenic environment where cancer cells can develop, favouring their survival, expansion and invasiveness. Additional commonalities of fibrosis and cancer are also represented by overproduction of growth factors, like transforming growth factor β, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, high oxidative stress, Hippo pathway dysfunctions and enhanced cellular senescence. Here, we review advances in the analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of both organ fibrosis and cancer, with particular reference to chronic kidney diseases and renal cell cancers. Most importantly, improved understanding of common features is contributing to the development of innovative treatment strategies targeting shared mechanisms.
Products of current operators in the exact renormalization group formalism
Authors: Sonoda H.
Published: November 2020

Given a Wilson action invariant under global chiral transformations, we can construct current composite operators in terms of the Wilson action. The short-distance singularities in the multiple products of the current operators are taken care of by the exact renormalization group. The Ward–Takahashi identity is compatible with the finite momentum cutoff of the Wilson action. The exact renormalization group and the Ward–Takahashi identity together determine the products. As a concrete example, we study the Gaussian fixed-point Wilson action of the chiral fermions to construct the products of current operators.
Screening at ports of entry for Ebola Virus Disease in England—a descriptive analysis of screening assessment data, 2014–2015
Authors: Boddington Nicki L , Steinberger Sophia , Pebody Richard G
Published: November 2020

Background

In response to the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in West Africa in 2014 and evidence of spread to other countries, pre-entry screening was introduced by PHE at five major ports of entry in the England.

Methods

All passengers that entered the England via the five ports returning from Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leonne were required to complete a Health Assessment Form and have their temperature taken. The numbers, characteristics and outcomes of these passengers were analysed.

Results

Between 14 October 2014 and 13 October 2015, a total of 12 648 passengers from affected countries had been screened. The majority of passengers were assessed as having no direct contact with EVD cases or high-risk events (12 069, 95.4%), although 535 (4.2%) passengers were assessed as requiring public health follow-up. In total, 39 passengers were referred directly to secondary care, although none were diagnosed with EVD. One high-risk passenger was later referred to secondary care and diagnosed with EVD.

Conclusions

Collection of these screening data enabled timely monitoring of the numbers and characteristics of passengers screened for EVD, facilitated resourcing decisions and acted as a mechanism to inform passengers of the necessary public health actions.
Strategy by latitude? Higher photosynthetic capacity and root mass fraction in northern than southern silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) in uniform growing conditions
Authors: Tenkanen Antti , Suprun Sergei , Oksanen Elina , Keinänen Markku , Keski-Saari Sarita , Kontunen-Soppela Sari
Published: November 2020

Growth of northern trees is limited by short growing seasons. In multi-year trials, northern trees usually grow less than southern ones but can have higher gas exchange, whereas differences in biomass allocation and its relation to photosynthesis are less known. We characterized silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) provenances from southern (latitude 61°) and northern (latitude 67°) Finland in uniform chamber conditions. In a time-series experiment, we measured traits related to growth, biomass allocation and photosynthesis, and determined gas exchange responses to temperature and light. We found provenance differences in photosynthetic capacity and growth. The northern provenance allocated relatively more to roots, having a higher root mass fraction and lower shoot:root ratio than the southern provenance. On the other hand, the northern provenance had fewer leaves and lower total leaf dry weight (DW) than the southern provenance. The northern provenance attained higher rates of net photosynthesis (Anet) and higher stomatal conductance (gs) in all measured temperatures and higher photosynthesis at the optimum temperature (Aopt) than the southern provenance, but there was no difference in the optimum temperature of photosynthesis (Topt, 18.3 °C for the southern provenance vs 18.9 °C for the northern one). Photosynthetic light response curves showed no between-provenance differences. In a time-series, the northern provenance had higher Anet than the southern provenance, but gs was similar. The northern provenance had higher maximum quantum yield of photosystem II photochemistry (Fv/Fm) than the southern provenance. There were no differences between provenances in height, total plant DW, shoot DW, root DW or shoot mass fraction. Our results suggest that the provenances occupy a common thermal niche, or can at least relatively quickly acclimate to a common growth temperature. Thus, carbon assimilation of these northern trees may not be significantly affected by rising temperatures alone. In an equal photoperiod and optimal conditions, we found different one-season biomass accumulation strategies: southern trees grow with more leaves, while northern trees reach similar total assimilation (total DW, height) with more efficient photosynthetic capacity per leaf area (higher gas exchange, higher Fv/Fm) and relatively more investment in the below-ground fraction of the plant.
The benefits and costs of social distancing in high- and low-income countries
Authors: Barnett-Howell Zachary , Watson Oliver John , Mobarak Ahmed Mushfiq
Published: November 2020

Background

Widespread social distancing and lockdowns of everyday activity have been the primary policy prescription across many countries throughout the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite their uniformity, these measures may be differentially valuable for different countries.

Methods

We use a compartmental epidemiological model to project the spread of COVID-19 across policy scenarios in high- and low-income countries. We embed estimates of the welfare value of disease avoidance into the epidemiological projections to estimate the return to more stringent lockdown policies.

Results

Social distancing measures that ‘flatten the curve’ of the disease provide immense welfare value in upper-income countries. However, social distancing policies deliver significantly less value in lower-income countries that have younger populations, which are less vulnerable to COVID-19. Equally important, social distancing mandates a trade-off between disease risk and economic activity. Poorer people are less able to make those economic sacrifices.

Conclusions

The epidemiological and welfare value of social distancing is smaller in lower-income countries and such policies may exact a heavy toll on the poorest and most vulnerable. Workers in the informal sector often lack the resources and social protections that enable them to isolate themselves until the virus passes. By limiting these households’ ability to earn a living, social distancing can lead to an increase in hunger, deprivation, and related mortality and morbidity.
The Source of Hemisensory Disturbances in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Drummond Peter D. , Vo Lechi , Finch Philip M.
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

In complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), sensory deficits and/or hyperalgesia often extend beyond the affected limb to encompass other sites on the ipsilateral side of the body. The aim of this study was to determine whether hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral forehead reflects disinhibition and/or sensitization of trigeminal afferent or second-order neurons on the CRPS-affected side.

Participants and Methods:

To investigate this, blink reflexes to supraorbital electrical stimuli (a 2 mA triple pulse delivered using a concentric electrode) were recorded bilaterally in 30 CRPS patients and 20 controls of similar age and sex distribution. In addition, the effect of acoustic startle stimuli on pain and blink reflexes to supraorbital electrical stimuli was explored.

Results:

Supraorbital electrical stimulation was more painful on the affected than unaffected side in patients (P<0.05), and was more painful on both sides in patients than controls (P<0.001). In addition, electrical stimulation of the ipsilateral forehead increased loudness and auditory discomfort to acoustic startle stimuli (P<0.05). However, blink reflexes were similar on both sides in patients, and smaller in amplitude and of longer latency in patients than controls (P<0.05).

Discussion:

These findings suggest that trigeminal sensory nerve input activates sensitized and/or disinhibited nociceptive circuits in the thalamus or higher cortical centers in CRPS. This not only evokes ipsilateral supraorbital hyperalgesia but also compromises auditory perception. Hence, crosstalk between auditory and nociceptive signals at sites of convergence within the central nervous system may generate hyperacusis in CRPS.
Modified Woodward’s procedure confers functional improvement in Sprengel’s deformity
Authors: Ashok Anand , James Deeptiman , Gahukamble Abhay , Palocaren Thomas , Madhuri Vrisha
Published: November 2020

Modified Woodward’s procedure improves shoulder movement and cosmesis. There is a paucity of literature reporting objective assessment of functional outcomes. We report cosmetic and functional outcomes in Sprengel’s deformity treated with modified Woodward’s procedure. Children aged 12 years and under, who underwent Modified Woodward’s procedure from January 2006 to December 2014 were included in the prospective study. Improvement in Cavendish grade, Rigault scale, and shoulder movements was noted. Pediatric outcomes data collection instrument (PODCI) and simple shoulder test (SST) scores were assigned at the final follow-up. Statistical analysis was conducted with paired T-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Fourteen patients (one bilateral) with a mean follow-up of 4.5 years (1–8 years) were analyzed. The mean age at surgery was 5.7 years (3–12 years). Ten (71%) patients had omovertebral bars. Six patients had Klippel-Feil syndrome including one with cervical hemivertebrae with anterior chest wall deficiency. Cavendish grade and Rigault scale improved significantly (P < 0.05). Mean shoulder abduction and forward flexion improved by 37.3° (P < 0.001) and 38.7° (P < 0.001), respectively. The mean normative PODCI score was 24.07 (reported normative score ranges from −146 to 53) and the SST score was 9.64 (reported score ranges from 0 to 12). SST scores demonstrated a moderate correlation with shoulder function. Patients without associated anomalies had better cosmetic (P = 0.057) and functional (P = 0.029) improvement. Modified Woodward’s procedure improved cosmesis and provided near-normal functional outcomes in children irrespective of age and sex. Better improvement was noted in children without anomalies.
The Salter innominate osteotomy does not lead to acetabular retroversion
Authors: Airey Grace , Shelton James , Dorman Sara , Bruce Colin , Wright David M.
Published: November 2020

In children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), Salter’s innominate osteotomy aims to surgically manipulate the acetabulum to increase anterior coverage and aid joint support. Consequently, this procedure may retrovert the acetabulum, predisposing patients to pain, osteoarthritis, impingement, or further surgical intervention. In this study, we aim to address whether the innominate osteotomy leads to acetabular retroversion postoperatively or at follow-up. Ninety-two patients were identified from our institutions DDH database between 2009 and 2016, who underwent a unilateral innominate osteotomy for DDH, performed by expert surgeons in a leading paediatric hospital. A novel technique was utilized to measure acetabular version on postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans, where acetabular version was compared between the pathological and contralateral control hips. Measurement of acetabular version in postoperative and control hips demonstrated no incidence of acetabular retroversion. A significant difference was observed when comparing the acetabular version of control versus post-operative hips (P < 0.001), where hips postinnominate osteotomy had a larger degree of acetabular anteversion compared to the control hip. Furthermore, on follow-up radiographic imaging, there was no evidence of acetabular retroversion when using previously defined markers. This study confirms that the Salter innominate osteotomy does not lead to acetabular retroversion both immediately post-operatively and throughout follow-up. In fact, it demonstrates that the acetabula are more anteverted than the contralateral control hip, which has not been previously documented. Additionally, this study demonstrates a novel method of measuring acetabular retroversion using CT technology that adjusts for pelvic tilt, which is repeatable among individuals.
S-allylcysteine induces cytotoxic effects in two human lung cancer cell lines via induction of oxidative damage, downregulation of Nrf2 and NF-κB, and apoptosis
Authors: Orozco-Morales Mario , Hernández-Pedro Norma Yanet , Barrios-Bernal Pedro , Arrieta Oscar , Ruiz-Godoy Luz María , Aschner Michael , Santamaría Abel , Colín-González Ana Laura
Published: November 2020

In this study, we investigated the putative cytotoxic effect elicited by the garlic-derived compound S-allylcysteine (SAC) in two human cancer cell lines (HCC827 and NCI-H1975) in order to develop an experimental approach to the therapeutic potential of this molecule for lung cancer. Cells were incubated for 24, 48 and 72 h in the presence of SAC (10 or 20 mM), which resulted in a concentration- and time-dependent decrease in cell viability and culture confluence in both cell lines. These effects were contrasted with – and validated through – those observed in an immortalized but nontumorigenic epithelial cell line from human bronchial epithelium (BEAS-2B, negative control) and an adenocarcinoma human alveolar basal epithelial cell line (A549, positive control). SAC (20 mM at 72 h) also increased the oxidative damage to lipids, augmented apoptosis, and decreased the expression of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) proteins in HCC827 and NCI-H1975 cells. Our results establish the efficacy of SAC in reducing malignant growth and proliferation of lung tumor cells. This effect is mediated by the induction of oxidative damage associated with the downregulation of Nrf2 and NF-κB and their corresponding signaling pathways.
Learning With Patients, Students, and Peers
Authors: Ryan Anna , Hatala Rose , Brydges Ryan , Molloy Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

Conceptualizations of workplace learning have moved from knowledge acquisition to learning as participation in the practices and cultures of the workplace environment. Along with this has come an appreciation of applicability of sociocultural learning theories, which frame learning as occurring within “communities of practice” or learning being “situated” within a workplace environment where collaboration and social interaction are fundamental to the learning process. These conceptualizations of workplace learning are ideally suited to health professions where learners are supervised in clinical work environments and then continue to work in team-based environments as graduates. However, what happens to workplace learning for novice practitioners who have limited periods of clinical supervision and then graduate into solo or small group practices (which may also be in rural or remote locations) and embark on long working careers without supervision? This paper argues workplace learning needs to be scaffolded and supported to reach its full potential in these environments. Drawing on workplace-based learning theory, we highlight the ubiquitous nature of learning in the workplace, the importance of active engagement, reflection, and individual meaning making. Through this reframing of traditional notions of continuing professional development, we emphasize the importance of patients, students, and other practitioners as partners in workplace learning for solo practitioners. We also focus on the role of educators, professional associations, and regulators in helping solo practitioners recognize, access, and maximize the learning opportunities inherent in relatively isolated practice environments.
Can propranolol act as a chemopreventive agent during oral carcinogenesis? An experimental animal study
Authors: Wagner Vivian P. , Spuldaro Tobias R. , Nör Felipe , Gaio Eduardo J. , Castilho Rogerio M. , Carrard Vinicius C. , Rösing Cassiano K.
Published: November 2020

The multistep process of oral carcinogenesis provides a biological rationale for the use of chemoprevention in individuals at increased risk of developing oral cancer. We aimed to determine if low doses of propranolol can prevent the development of oral cancer using a tobacco-relevant and p53-associated animal model of cancer initiation. Twenty-six Wistar rats were randomly allocated into two groups, vehicle, and propranolol. All animals received 4-nitroquinoline N-oxide (4NQO) at 25 ppm diluted in the drinking water for 20 weeks. Animals from the propranolol group received propranolol (0.1 mg/kg) 5 days per week by gavage for 18 weeks. The clinical analysis was performed by measuring the area of the lesion and assessment of scores based on lesion appearance (papule; plaque; nodule or ulcerated). Histopathological analysis was performed to determine the presence of epithelial dysplasia or invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The average lesion area in 4NQO + vehicle and in 4NQO + propranolol groups were 0.20  and 0.28 mm2, respectively (P = 0.53). The percentage of cases clinically graded as papules, thick plaques, nodular areas, and ulcerated lesions was similar between groups (P = 0.94). Histopathological diagnosis also did not differ between groups (P = 0.65), with 54.5 and 70% of cases being diagnosed as SCC in 4NQO and in 4NQO + propranolol groups, respectively. In conclusion, daily doses propranolol at 0.1 mg/kg were not as effective as a chemopreventive therapy in an animal model of 4NQO-induced carcinogenesis.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients 80 Years and Older Hospitalized With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Nabors Christopher , Sridhar Abhinaya , Hooda Urvashi , Lobo Stephen A. , Levine Avi , Frishman William H. , Dhand Abhay
Published: November 2020

Patients older than 65 years hospitalized with COVID-19 have higher rates of intensive care unit admission and death when compared with younger patients. Cardiovascular conditions associated with COVID-19 include myocardial injury, acute myocarditis, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, cardiogenic shock, thromboembolic disease, and cardiac arrest. Few studies have described the clinical course of those at the upper extreme of age. We characterize the clinical course and outcomes of 73 patients with 80 years of age or older hospitalized at an academic center between March 15 and May 13, 2020. These patients had multiple comorbidities and often presented with atypical clinical findings such as altered sensorium, generalized weakness and falls. Cardiovascular manifestations observed at the time of presentation included new arrhythmia in 7/73 (10%), stroke/intracranial hemorrhage in 5/73 (7%), and elevated troponin in 27/58 (47%). During hospitalization, 38% of all patients required intensive care, 13% developed a need for renal replacement therapy, and 32% required vasopressor support. All-cause mortality was 47% and was highest in patients who were ever in intensive care (71%), required mechanical ventilation (83%), or vasopressors (91%), or developed a need for renal replacement therapy (100%). Patients older than 80 years old with COVID-19 have multiple unique risk factors which can be associated with increased cardiovascular involvement and death.
Experiences and Needs of Parents Caring for Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Elangkovan Ian Thiruchelvam , Shorey Shefaly
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Caregiver burden of parents of children with disabilities is negatively associated with parental quality of life and psychosocial well-being and has been identified as a public health concern. Reviews have consolidated the experiences of these parents, but little is understood about the unique challenges faced by parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP). We aim to conduct an in-depth synthesis of the experiences and needs of parents of children with CP to better support them.

Methods:

Six electronic databases were searched systematically for qualitative research, and a thematic synthesis was performed.

Results:

Seventeen studies from 1988 to 2019 encapsulating the experiences of 226 parents were included in this review. Four themes and 11 subthemes were identified: (1) self: the caregiver-parent trajectory (coming to terms with the fact, physical and emotional demands, and a nice outlet), (2) family: maintaining the family unit (juggling multiple children and parenting as a co-occupation), (3) society: social repercussions (facing public discrimination, rejection by extended family, and loss of freedom), and (4) parents' wish list (open communication and caring attitudes, funding and health care accessibility, social integration, and inclusivity). Apart from emotional adaptation and physical childcare difficulty, parents indicated a need for more information on health care services, funding, better attitudes and empathy from health care providers, properly trained educators, disability-friendly fixtures, and more public awareness.

Conclusion:

The findings in this review provide insight into the true experiences and needs of parents caring for children with CP and will aid clinicians in the development of family-centered care pathways for these patients.