bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome level assembly reveals a unique immune gene organization and signatures of evolution in the common pheasant
Authors: He Chuan , Zhao Lele , Xiao Lu , Xu Ke , Ding Jinmei , Zhou Hao , Zheng Yuming , Han Chengxiao , Akinyemi Fisayo , Luo Huaixi , Yang Lingyu , Luo Lingxiao , Yuan Hongyan , Lu Xuelin , Meng He
Published: November 2020

The common pheasant Phasianus colchicus, belonging to the order Galliformes and family Phasianidae, is the most widespread species. Despite a long history of captivity, the domestication of this bird is still at a preliminary stage. Recently, the demand for accelerating its transformation to poultry for meat and egg production has been increasing. In this study, we assembled high quality, chromosome scale genome of the common pheasant by using PacBio long reads, next‐generation short reads, and Hi‐C technology. The primary assembly has contig N50 size of 1.33 Mb and scaffold N50 size of 59.46 Mb, with a total size of 0.99 Gb, resolving most macrochromosomes into single scaffolds. A total of 23,058 genes and 10.71 Mb interspersed repeats were identified, constituting 30.31% and 10.71% of the common pheasant genome, respectively. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that the common pheasant shared common ancestors with turkey about 24.7–34.5 million years ago (Ma). Rapidly evolved gene families, as well as branch‐specific positively selected genes, indicate that calcium‐related genes are potentially related to the adaptive and evolutionary change of the common pheasant. Interestingly, we found that the common pheasant has a unique major histocompatibility complex B locus (MHC‐B) structure: three major inversions occurred in the sequence compared with chicken MHC‐B. Furthermore, we detected signals of selection in five breeds of domestic common pheasant, several of which are production‐oriented.
Lung adenocarcinoma with repetitive endotracheal/endobronchial metastasis 20 years after surgery: A case report
Authors: Maki Yohei , Kimizuka Yoshifumi , Sasaki Hisashi , Yamamoto Takayuki , Watanabe Chie , Sano Tomoya , Tagami Yoichi , Misawa Kazuhisa , Miyata Jun , Fujikura Yuji , Shimazaki Hideyuki , Kawana Akihiko
Published: November 2020

The occurrence of endotracheal/endobronchial metastasis (EEM) after complete resection of a primary lung cancer is rare. Here, we report the case of an 86‐year‐old woman in whom EEM occurred twice over a 20‐year period following complete resection of a primary adenocarcinoma localized to the left main bronchus and trachea. The presence of EEM was confirmed by establishing immunohistochemical homology of the metastases with the primary tumor. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of repetitive EEM of primary lung adenocarcinoma. Lymphatic invasion in the primary lesion suggested that a possible route for EEM was the peripheral lymphatic tract, explaining the slow recurrence rate. We conclude that observation of the trachea/bronchus over a long period post operation could be important in monitoring for EEM, particularly if lymphatic invasion is confirmed in the primary tumor.
Controlled drinking—non‐abstinent versus abstinent treatment goals in alcohol use disorder: a systematic review, meta‐analysis and meta‐regression
Authors: Henssler Jonathan , Müller Martin , Carreira Helena , Bschor Tom , Heinz Andreas , Baethge Christopher
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

The proportion of untreated patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) exceeds that of any other mental health disorder, and treatment alternatives are needed. A widely discussed strategy is to depart from the abstinence paradigm as part of controlled drinking approaches. This first systematic review with meta‐analysis aims to assess the efficacy of non‐abstinent treatment strategies compared with abstinence‐based strategies.

Methods

CENTRAL, PubMed, PsycINFO and Embase databases were searched until February 2019 for controlled (randomized and non‐randomized) clinical trials (RCTs and non‐RCTs) among adult AUD populations, including an intervention group aiming at controlled drinking and a control group aiming for abstinence. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) and Cochrane Collaboration guidelines, literature search, data collection and risk of bias assessment were carried out independently by two reviewers [International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), registration no. CRD42019128716]. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants consuming alcohol at or below the recommended threshold. Secondary outcomes were social functioning, drinking reductions, abstinence rates and dropouts. Using random‐effects models, RCTs and non‐RCTs were analyzed separately. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses accounted for methodological rigor, inclusion of goal‐specific treatment, length of follow‐up and AUD severity.

Results

Twenty‐two studies (including five RCTs) with 4204 patients were selected. There was no statistically significant difference between both treatment paradigms in RCTs [odds ratio (OR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.51–3.39]. Non‐randomized studies of free goal choice favored abstinence‐orientation (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.40–0.90), unless goal‐specific treatment was provided (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.40–1.56), or in studies of low risk of bias (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.49–1.09) or with long follow‐up (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.78–2.85). Effect sizes were not clearly dependent upon AUD severity. Abstinence‐ and controlled drinking interventions did not clearly differ in their effect on social functioning and drinking reductions.

Conclusions

Available evidence does not support abstinence as the only approach in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Controlled drinking, particularly if supported by specific psychotherapy, appears to be a viable option where an abstinence‐oriented approach is not applicable.
The Impacts of GM Foods: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial of Bt Eggplant in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Akhter U. , Hoddinott John , Abedin Naveen , Hossain Nusrat
Published: November 2020

We implemented a cluster randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of genetically modified eggplant (Bt brinjal) in Bangladesh. Our two primary outcomes were changes in yield and in pesticide costs. Cultivation of Bt brinjal raises yields by 3,564 kg/ha. This statistically significant impact is equivalent to a 51% increase relative to the control group. There is a statistically significant fall in pesticide costs, 7,175 Taka per hectare (85 USD per ha), a 37.5% reduction. Yield increases arise because Bt farmers harvest more eggplant and because fewer fruits are discarded because they are damaged. Bt brinjal farmers sell more eggplant and receive a higher price for the output they sell while incurring lower input costs, resulting in a 128% increase in net revenues. Bt brinjal farmers used smaller quantities of pesticides and sprayed less frequently. Bt brinjal reduced the toxicity of pesticides as much as 76%. Farmers growing Bt brinjal and who had pre‐existing chronic conditions consistent with pesticide poisoning were 11.5% points less likely to report a symptom of pesticide poisoning and were less likely to incur cash medical expenses to treat these symptoms. Our results are robust to changes in model specification and adjustment for multiple hypothesis testing. We did not find evidence of heterogeneous effects by farmer age, schooling, or land cultivated. Bt brinjal is a publicly developed genetically modified organism that conveys significant productivity and income benefits while reducing the use of pesticides damaging to human and ecological health.
Rebalancing Our Portfolio: Envisioning a More Inclusive, Altruistic, and Engaged AAEA
Authors: Thilmany Dawn
Published: November 2020

Throughout its history, the AAEA has evolved to broaden its scope, expand its partners and create an organization that encourages its members to more actively collaborate, network and serve. Using concepts from Gladwell's Tipping Points framework, this address highlights how past visionaries, connectors and leaders guided this evolution and urged the AAEA to update its portfolio of activities and organizational structure. 2020 has given us a unique opportunity to consider the portfolio of topics on which we research and educate, but also, reflect on our professional impacts in terms of the stakeholders, partners and policies we strive to impact. This address challenges AAEA members to revisit their portfolio as a means to update our desired risk‐reward ratio, framing the tradeoffs through a lens of altruism, inclusion and engagement. I conclude with an agenda of where AAEA can directly play a role in highlighting best practices and nudging its membership toward new social norms, encouraging members' to update and reframe their own professional priorities and goals.
Low anterior resection syndrome following different surgical approaches for low rectal endometriosis: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Bokor Attila , Hudelist Gernot , Dobó Noémi , Dauser Bernhard , Farella Marilena , Brubel Réka , Tuech Jean‐Jacques , Roman Horace
Published: November 2020

Introduction

There is increasing evidence that intermediate and long‐term bowel dysfunction may occur as a consequence of radical surgery for rectal deep endometriosis (DE). Typical symptoms include constipation, feeling of incomplete evacuation, clustering of stools, and urgency. This is described in the colorectal surgical literature as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). Within this, several studies suggested that differences regarding functional outcomes could be favorable to more conservative surgical approaches, that is, excision of endometriotic tissue with preservation of the luminal structure of the rectal wall when compared with classical segmental resection techniques for DE, especially when performed for low DE.

Material and methods

A total of 211 patients undergoing rectal surgery for low DE (≤7 cm from the anal verge) in three different tertiary referral centers between October 2009 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed regarding major complications and LARS. From the 211 eligible patients, six women were excluded because of loss to follow‐up. Finally, a total number of 205 patients were enrolled for the statistical analysis; 139 with nerve‐ and vessel‐sparing segmental resection (NVSSR) and 66 operated for laparoscopic‐transanal disk excision (LTADE) were included. Gastrointestinal functional outcomes of the two procedures were compared using the validated LARS questionnaire. The median follow‐up time was 46 ± 11 months. As a secondary outcome, the surgical sequelae were examined.

Results

We found no statistically significant difference between the incidence of LARS (31.7% and 37.9%, respectively) among patients operated by LTADE when compared with NVSSR (P = .4). The occurrence of LARS was positively associated with the use of protective ileostomy or colostomy (P = .02). A higher rate of severe complications was observed in women undergoing LTADE (19.7%) when compared with patients with NVSSR (9.0%, P = .029).

Conclusions

LARS is not more frequent after NVSSR when compared with a more conservative approach such as LTADE in patients undergoing rectal surgery for low DE. To confirm our findings prospective studies are required.
Outcome of acute respiratory distress syndrome requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in Covid‐19 or influenza: A single‐center registry study
Authors: Jäckel Markus , Rilinger Jonathan , Lang Corinna Nadine , Zotzmann Viviane , Kaier Klaus , Stachon Peter , Biever Paul Marc , Wengenmayer Tobias , Duerschmied Daniel , Bode Christoph , Staudacher Dawid Leander , Supady Alexander
Published: November 2020

Veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐V ECMO) is used to sustain blood oxygenation and decarboxylation in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It is under debate if V‐V ECMO is as appropriate for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) ARDS as it is for influenza. In this retrospective study, we analyzed all patients with confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 or influenza A/B infection, ARDS and V‐V ECMO, treated at our medical intensive care unit (ICU) between October 2010 and June 2020. Baseline and procedural characteristics as well as survival 30 days after ECMO cannulation were analyzed. A total of 62 V‐V ECMO patients were included (15 with Covid‐19 and 47 with influenza). Both groups had similar baseline characteristics at cannulation. Thirty days after ECMO cannulation, 13.3% of all patients with Covid‐19 were discharged alive from our ICU compared to 44.7% with influenza (P = .03). Patients with Covid‐19 had fewer ECMO‐free days (0 (0‐9.7) days vs. 13.2 (0‐22.1) days; P = .05). Cumulative incidences of 30‐day‐survival showed no significant differences (48.6% in Covid‐19 patients, 63.7% in influenza patients; P = .23). ICU treatment duration was significantly longer in ARDS patients with V‐V ECMO for Covid‐19 compared to influenza. Thirty‐day mortality was higher in Covid‐19, but not significant.
Dialectical behavior therapy in the Asia‐Pacific Rim region
Authors: Loo Jiann Lin , Keng Shian‐Ling , Ramírez‐Espinosa Iizax Gisela , Nor Hadi Noor Melissa , Ramírez‐Gutiérrez José Angel , Shoesmith Wendy
Published: November 2020

Background: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) contributes to suicide‐related morbidity and mortality and requires more intensive psychotherapeutic resources due to its high mental health service usage. Accessibility to an evidence‐based treatment program is a cornerstone to support patients with BPD and part of broader suicide prevention efforts as well as improving their quality of life.

Aims: In this article, the authors aim to discuss and review available dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and DBT‐informed services of selected countries in the Asia‐Pacific Rim, namely Singapore, Malaysia, and Mexico.

Materials & Methods: We contacted providers of different services and gathered information on the process of setting up the service and adapting the treatment, in addition to reviewing the available literature published in the countries.

Results: To date, there have been a pair of DBT‐informed services in Singapore, four in Malaysia, and several in Mexico with a few of them offering standard DBT. Different efforts have been put in place to increase the accessibility to training and also the number of DBT practitioners.

Discussion: Important considerations during the process of setting up new services include the use of domestic examples and local language that are contextually appropriate for the local community. Selected challenges faced in common include shortage of workforce, affordability of training programs, and the need for language adaptation with or without translation.

Conclusion: Further long‐term evaluation of locally adapted DBT‐informed mental health services will help to elucidate the effectiveness and efficacy of the program which will potentially serve as a guide for other resource‐scarce regions.
Hypophosphataemia after treatment of iron deficiency with intravenous ferric carboxymaltose or iron isomaltoside—a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Schaefer Benedikt , Tobiasch Moritz , Viveiros André , Tilg Herbert , Kennedy Nicholas A. , Wolf Myles , Zoller Heinz
Published: November 2020

Aims

Hypophosphataemia is an increasingly recognized side‐effect of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and possibly iron isomaltoside/ferric derisomaltose (IIM), which are used to treat iron deficiency. The aim of this study was to determine frequency, severity, duration and risk factors of incident hypophosphataemia after treatment with FCM and IIM.

Methods

A systematic literature search for articles indexed in EMBASE, PubMed and Web of Science in years 2005–2020 was carried out using the search terms ‘ferric carboxymaltose’ OR ‘iron isomaltoside’. Prospective clinical trials reporting outcomes on hypophosphataemia rate, mean nadir serum phosphate and/or change in mean serum phosphate from baseline were selected. Hypophosphataemia rate and severity were compared for studies on IIM vs. FCM after stratification for chronic kidney disease. Meta‐regression analysis was used to investigate risk factors for hypophosphataemia.

Results

Across the 42 clinical trials included in the meta‐analysis, FCM induced a significantly higher incidence of hypophosphataemia than IIM (47%, 95% CI 36–58% vs. 4%, 95% CI 2–5%), and significantly greater mean decreases in serum phosphate (0.40 vs. 0.06 mmol/L). Hypophosphataemia persisted at the end of the study periods (maximum 3 months) in up to 45% of patients treated with FCM. Meta‐regression analysis identified low baseline serum ferritin and transferrin saturation, and normal kidney function as significant predictors of hypophosphataemia.

Conclusion

FCM is associated with a high risk of hypophosphataemia, which does not resolve for at least 3 months in a large proportion of affected patients. More severe iron deficiency and normal kidney function are risk factors for hypophosphataemia.
Does the BCG vaccine have different effects on strains of tuberculosis?
Authors: Kousha A , Farajnia S , Ansarin K , Khalili M , Shariat M , Sahebi L
Published: November 2020

Several explanations have been suggested concerning the variety in bacille Calmette–Guerin (BCG) vaccine efficacy on strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). This study aimed to compare the effect of BCG vaccination history in the prevention of the occurrence of Mtb-Beijing and non-Beijing strains. In this cross-sectional study, 64 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) were recruited from the Iranian border provinces (North West and West). Isolates were subjected to restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis, using the insertion sequence IS6110 as a probe (IS6110 RFLP) and drug susceptibility testing using the proportion method. Samples were analyzed with Gel Compare II 6.6 and spss version 18. The mean age [standard deviation (SD)] of the patients was 54·4 (SD = 17·0). Overall, 49 cases (76·56%) had no BCG vaccination scar. The prevalence of Beijing strains was 9·38% and drug resistance proportion among the isolates was 14·1% (nine cases). There was a significant relationship between Beijing strains and tuberculosis (TB)-drug resistance in isolates (χ2 = 26·29, P < 0·001). There was also a strong association between vaccination history and Beijing strains (χ2 = 13·23, P = 0·002). Also, a statistical relationship was observed between Beijing strains and drug-resistant TB among patients with a history of vaccination (χ2 = 7·47, P = 0·002). This association was not maintained in the unvaccinated group (P = 0·102). These findings confirm the claim that the vaccine has different effects on different subspecies of tuberculosis. The cause of the high probability of drug resistance in patients with Beijing-TB and vaccination history requires further investigation with a higher sample size.
Needs of homeless children in the Czech Republic
Authors: Glumbíková Kateřina , Mikulec Marek
Published: November 2020

The needs of homeless children living in shelters and hostels in the Czech Republic have been not sufficiently explored yet. The paper therefore aims to analyse and describe the needs of homeless children living in shelters and hostels in the Czech Republic, thus creating a basis for social work with homeless children and their families. As part of a qualitative research strategy carried out through interviews with parents, children and their social workers, five categories of homeless children's needs (based on Matějček's theory) were identified and described in detail based on a data analysis using Charmaz's Grounded Theory; these categories were the need for stimulation, the need for a meaningful world, the need for love and emotional safety, the need for identity and finding one's own place in society and the need for a life perspective and open future. Based on the identified needs, implications for social work with families were identified, strengthening a sensitive approach of helping professions to the needs of homeless children.
Surgical outcomes following colorectal cancer resections in patients aged 80 years and over: results from the Australia and New Zealand Binational Colorectal Cancer Audit
Authors: Cross Andrea J. , Kornfält Pauline , Lidin Jacqueline , Buchwald Pamela , Frizelle Frank A. , Eglinton Timothy W.
Published: November 2020

Aim

The primary aim was to compare the 30‐day morbidity and mortality in patients aged ≥80 years undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer with those aged <80 years. The secondary aim was to identify independent outcome predictors.

Method

This was a retrospective study of patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer between January 2007 and February 2018. Patients were divided into those <80 years and those ≥80 years at the time of surgery. Data had been collected prospectively by the Australasian Binational Colorectal Cancer Audit and included patient demographics, site and stage of tumour, comorbidity, operative details, American Society of Anesthesiologists score (ASA), pathological staging, 30‐day mortality and morbidity (medical and surgical). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify predictors of 30‐day morbidity and mortality.

Results

During the study period, 4600 out of 20 463 (22.5%) patients were ≥80 years. They had a greater 30‐day mortality after both colonic (97/2975 [3.3%] vs. 66/7010 [0.9%], P < 0.001) and rectal resections (50/1625 [3.1%] vs. 36/9006 [0.4%], P < 0.001) compared with younger patients. They also had an increased length of stay (colon cancer, 9 vs. 7 days; rectal cancer, 10 vs. 8 days; P < 0.001) and medical complications (colon cancer, 23.5% vs. 12.7%; rectal cancer, 25.2% vs. 11.2%; P < 0.001). Surgical complications were equivalent.

Age ≥80 years was not an independent predictor of 30‐day morbidity or mortality. Patients ≥80 years who were ASA 2/3 and had rectal cancer seemed to fare worse in terms of 30‐day mortality (ASA 2, 22%, 95% CI 9%–36%, P < 0.001; ASA 3, 11%, 95% CI 4%–19%, P< 0.001).

Conclusions

Postoperative morbidity and mortality are significantly greater in patients ≥80 years undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. Any recommendation for surgery in this age group should take into account patient comorbidity and not be based on age alone.
Emerging role of AMPA receptor subunit GluA1 in synaptic plasticity: Implications for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Qu Wenrui , Yuan Baoming , Liu Jun , Liu Qianqian , Zhang Xi , Cui Ranji , Yang Wei , Li Bingjin
Published: November 2020

It is well established that GluA1 mediated synaptic plasticity plays a central role in the early development of AD. The complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable GluA1‐related synaptic regulation remain to fully understood. Particularly, understanding the mechanisms that disrupt GluA1 related synaptic plasticity is central to the development of disease‐modifying therapies which are sorely needed as the incidence of AD rises. We surmise that the published evidence establishes deficits in synaptic plasticity as a central factor of AD aetiology. We additionally highlight potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of AD, and we delve into the roles of GluA1 in learning and memory. Particularly, we review the current understanding of the molecular interactions that confer the actions of this ubiquitous excitatory receptor subunit including post‐translational modification and accessory protein recruitment of the GluA1 subunit. These are proposed to regulate receptor trafficking, recycling, channel conductance and synaptic transmission and plasticity.
MAP2K1‐driven mixed Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Rosai‐Dorfman‐Destombes disease and Erdheim‐Chester disease, clonally related to acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bonometti Arturo , Ferrario Giuseppina , Parafioriti Antonina , Giardino Demostene , Simonetti Federico , Ginori Alessandro , Passoni Emanuela , Berti Emilio ,   for AIRI, Associazione Italiana Ricerca Istiocitosi ONLUS
Published: November 2020

Mixed histiocytoses are a rare and recently recognized subset of histiocytic disorders that may involve the skin, characterized by the synchronous or metachronous development of lesions with Langerhans and/or non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis histopathological features. Around 10% of patients diagnosed with histiocytosis may develop a hematological malignancy, often with dramatic prognostic consequences. We hereby describe the exceptional case of a patient developing a MAP2K1‐driven mixed histiocytosis with Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Rosai‐Dorfman‐Destombes disease, and Erdheim‐Chester disease features and cutaneous involvement, progressing to a fatal and clonally‐related acute myeloid leukemia. We reviewed the literature on similar cases and discussed the histopathological difficulties in their diagnosis and their clinical‐pathological features.
The socio‐environmental context of simultaneous alcohol and marijuana use among young adults: Examining day‐level associations
Authors: Linden‐Carmichael Ashley N. , Allen Hannah K. , Lanza Stephanie T.
Published: November 2020

Introduction and Aims

Simultaneous alcohol and marijuana (SAM) use is reported by roughly 30% of young adult drinkers. Among SAM users, SAM use days have more negative substance‐related consequences than single‐substance days. Little information is available about contextual factors contributing to the likelihood of SAM use on a particular day. This study compared days on which individuals reported SAM use relative to days on which they reported alcohol but not marijuana use in terms of physical location, engagement in risky activities and social context of use.

Design and Methods

Participants were 148 young adults (57% female) reporting past‐month SAM use and past two‐week binge drinking. Participants completed up to 14 daily surveys assessing substance use behaviour and socio‐environmental characteristics of use.

Results

For those <21 years, only using at home was associated with greater odds of SAM use. For those 21+, using at a friend's house and outdoors were associated with increased odds of use; using at a bar/club was associated with lower odds. Using alone was associated with lower odds of use for those 21+. Engagement in risky activities (pre‐gaming and drinking games) was not associated with SAM use.

Discussion and Conclusions

SAM days are linked with use in private settings and social situations. Despite experiencing more harms on SAM days, SAM use is not more likely than alcohol use alone to occur in certain environments and situations traditionally found to be linked with increased risk. Findings may provide key insight for developing context‐informed interventions focused on SAM use.
High stream flows dilute environmental DNA (eDNA) concentrations and reduce detectability
Authors: Curtis Amanda N. , Tiemann Jeremy S. , Douglass Sarah A. , Davis Mark A. , Larson Eric R.
Published: November 2020

Aim

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a rapidly emerging methodology with important applications to environmental management and conservation. However, the effects of stream flow or discharge on eDNA have been minimally investigated in lotic (stream and river) environments. In this study, we examined the role of stream flow on eDNA concentrations and detectability of an invasive clam (Corbicula fluminea), while also accounting for other abiotic and biotic variables.

Location

Illinois, United States of America.

Methods

We used a longitudinal study over a year in two streams, as well as a seasonal study (summer, autumn) in eight streams, to investigate the effects of variable stream flow on eDNA concentrations and detectability. We used linear mixed‐effects models to assess the influence of various factors on eDNA concentration and occupancy models to make predictions on how seasonality can influence eDNA detection.

Results

We found higher stream flows decreased eDNA concentrations, and floods produced false negatives or non‐detections at locations where C. fluminea was relatively common. In addition, we found concentrations and detectability of C. fluminea eDNA to be higher in summer than in autumn.

Main conclusions

We found that stream flow dilutes eDNA concentrations, which may have serious implications for the detection of low abundance organisms. Managers and practitioners applying eDNA for rare species should seek to sample at low or base stream flows when feasible, and future studies should investigate whether our findings here are consistent for other taxa and lotic ecosystems.
Perception of health and educational risks amongst dental students and educators in the era of COVID‐19
Authors: Jum’ah Ahmad A. , Elsalem Lina , Loch Carolina , Schwass Donald , Brunton Paul A.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To investigate the perceived educational and health risks associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic amongst dental students and educators.

Methods

A 17‐item electronic survey was sent to 496 undergraduate dental students and 53 clinical faculty members who attended clinical sessions during the outbreak period. The survey explored various aspects related to primary sources and prevention of disease exposure, dental management of suspected cases, impact of COVID‐19 on students’ clinical performance and effects of suspension of educational activities on academic performance and clinical competence.

Results

The response rate of the students’ was 60.7% (n = 301). The majority of students reported that performing clinical work during the outbreak posed significant health concerns, resulted in a significant stress and negatively affected their clinical performance. The majority of students believed that aerosols generated during dental procedures are the major source for disease exposure and universal protective equipment is not effective for prevention. The decision to suspend teaching activities was supported by 89% of the students. Opinions were divided regarding the impact of the suspension on the academic performance and clinical competence. Educational videos were the most preferred form of distance education. The response rate of faculty members was 60.4% (n = 32). Responses of faculty members were similar to students, though fewer concerns were reported regarding the risk of disease transmission. All respondents agreed that extra‐precautionary measures are required to ensure optimum protection against disease exposure.

Conclusions

The recent COVID‐19 outbreak has adversely affected various elements of dental education. High levels of major health risk perception were noted amongst students and educators. The interruption to academic and clinical activities may lead to an inevitable skill deficit within the new generation of dental graduates. Educators are under significant pressure to accommodate abrupt changes in teaching methods, find solutions to mitigate skill deficit and ensure safe clinical practice once clinical activities are resumed.
Development of a novel outcome prediction score (PEDSS) for pediatric convulsive status epilepticus: A longitudinal observational study
Authors: Tiwari Richa , Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Gulati Sheffali , Jauhari Prashant , Lodha Rakesh , Sankar Jhuma , Kumar Atin , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Upadhyay Ashish , Gupta Juhi , Sinha Rahul
Published: November 2020

Objective

The objectives of this study were to evaluate ENDIT score and develop a novel outcome prediction score for outcome of pediatric convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge.

Methods

Children and adolescents aged 1 month to 14 years, presenting with CSE to a tertiary care teaching center in North India from January 2017 to March 2019, were screened for enrollment. In‐hospital and 3‐month postdischarge outcome were defined as poor if Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category Scale (PCPCS) score dropped by ≥2 levels.

Results

Overall, 61 patients were enrolled for final analysis after applying exclusion and inclusion criteria. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for ENDIT score in predicting mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge was 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.58‐0.89), 0.7 (95% CI = 0.57‐0.83), and 0.72 (95% CI = 0.6‐0.82), respectively. Based on predictors in the present cohort that were significantly different between good and poor outcome cases at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge, a new six‐point score named PEDSS (pre–status epilepticus PCPCS, background electroencephalographic abnormalities, drug refractoriness, semiology, and critical sickness) was developed. The area under ROC curves for PEDSS score in predicting mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge were 0.93 (95% CI = 0.87‐0.99), 0.8 (95% CI = 0.7‐0.9), and 0.89 (95% CI = 0.8‐0.96), respectively. The best cutoff PEDSS scores for predicting mortality and poor outcome at the hospital and at 3 months postdischarge were ≥4, ≥3, and ≥3, respectively.

Significance

The PEDSS score has high predictive accuracy for mortality and differentiating good from poor outcome at the hospital and 3 months postdischarge in pediatric CSE. Future studies should be planned to validate it in various geographical and health care settings and in adults.
Risk for infantile spasms after acute symptomatic neonatal seizures
Authors: Glass Hannah C. , Grinspan Zachary M. , Li Yi , McNamara Nancy A. , Chang Taeun , Chu Catherine J. , Massey Shavonne L. , Abend Nicholas S. , Lemmon Monica E. , Thomas Cameron , McCulloch Charles E. , Shellhaas Renée A. ,   the Neonatal Seizure Registry Study Group
Published: November 2020

Objective

Infantile spasms (IS) is a severe epilepsy in early childhood. Early treatment of IS provides the best chance of seizure remission and favorable developmental outcome. We aimed to develop a prediction rule to accurately predict which neonates with acute symptomatic seizures will develop IS.

Methods

We used data from the Neonatal Seizure Registry, a prospective, multicenter cohort of infants with acute symptomatic neonatal seizures born from July 2015 to March 2018. Neonates with acute symptomatic seizures who received clinical electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and were younger than 2 years of age at the time of enrollment were included. We evaluated the association of neonatal EEG, MRI, and clinical factors with subsequent IS using bivariate analysis and best subsets logistic regression. We selected a final model through a consensus process that balanced statistical significance with clinical relevance.

Results

IS developed in 12 of 204 infants (6%). Multiple potential predictors were associated with IS, including Apgar scores, EEG features, seizure characteristics, MRI abnormalities, and clinical status at hospital discharge. The final model included three risk factors: (a) severely abnormal EEG or ≥3 days with seizures recorded on EEG, (b) deep gray or brainstem injury on MRI, and (c) abnormal tone on discharge exam. The stratified risk of IS was the following: no factors 0% (0/82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0%‐4%), one or two factors 4% (4/108, 95% CI 1%‐9%), and all three factors 57% (8/14, 95% CI 29%‐83%).

Significance

IS risk after acute symptomatic neonatal seizures can be stratified using commonly available clinical data. No child without risk factors, vs >50% of those with all three factors, developed IS. This risk prediction rule may be valuable for clinical counseling as well as for selecting participants for clinical trials to prevent post‐neonatal epilepsy. This tailored approach may lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment and improve outcomes for a devastating early life epilepsy.
Incidence rates of severe cutaneous adverse reactions due to antiseizure medication: A nationwide study using health claims data in Korea
Authors: Chung Soo Jie , Ahn Kyung‐Min , Oh Ji Hyun , Shim Ji‐Su , Park Heung‐Woo
Published: November 2020

Objective

Antiseizure medications (ASMs) can rarely result in severe, sometimes fatal, cutaneous adverse reactions. To date, few studies have reported on the incidence rates (IRs) of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) due to ASM use. This study aimed to determine the IRs of SCAR resulting from the use of seven commonly prescribed ASMs, carbamazepine (CBZ), phenytoin (PHT), oxcarbazepine (OXC), lamotrigine (LMT), zonisamide (ZNS), levetiracetam (LVT), and topiramate (TPM), and to compare the associated risks among the drugs.

Methods

Using a nationwide health claims database, we selected all the patients prescribed with one of the target ASMs. We defined a SCAR case as the first hospitalization with one of three specific codes provided by the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (L511, L512, and L27). We then calculated the IR of SCARs according to each target ASM.

Results

The IR of SCARs for each ASM was as follows: 870/1 000 000 person‐years (PYs) for CBZ, 5750/1 000 000 PYs for PHT, 1490/1 000 000 PYs for OXC, 3860/1 000 000 PYs for LMT, 1540/1 000 000 PYs for ZNS, 830/1 000 000 PYs for LVT, and 400/1 000 000 PYs for TPM. Concomitant use of antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs significantly increased the risk of SCARs with OXC, LVT, or TPM use. Comorbid skin disease was associated with a significantly higher IR of SCARs from CBZ, PHT, OXC, LMT, or LVT use.

Significance

This is the first study in Asia to determine the IRs of SCARs for various ASMs and compare the rates across drugs using a large dataset. The results from this study should help clinicians select safer ASMs in practice.
Electrochemical evidence for in situ microbial activity at the Deep Mine Microbial Observatory (DeMMO), South Dakota, USA
Authors: Rowe Annette R. , Abuyen Karla , Lam Bonita R. , Kruger Brittany , Casar Caitlin P. , Osburn Magdalena R. , El‐Naggar Mohamed Y. , Amend Jan P.
Published: November 2020

The subsurface is Earth's largest reservoir of biomass. Micro‐organisms are the dominant lifeforms in this habitat, but the nature of their in situ activities remains largely unresolved. At the Deep Mine Microbial Observatory (DeMMO) located in the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota (USA), we performed in situ electrochemical incubations designed to assess the potential for deep groundwater microbial communities to utilize extracellular electron transfer to support microbial respiration. DeMMO 4 was chosen for its stable geochemistry and microbial community. Graphite and indium tin oxide electrodes poised at −200 mV versus SHE were incubated along with open circuit controls and various minerals in a parallel flow reactor that split access to fluids across different treatments. From the patterns of net current over time (fluctuating between anodic and cathodic currents over the course of a few days to weeks) and the catalytic features measured using periodic cyclic voltammetry, evidence of both oxidative and reductive microbe‐electrode interactions was observed. The predominant catalytic activity ranged from −210 to −120 mV. The observed temporal variability in electrochemical activity was unexpected given the documented stability in major geochemical parameters. This suggests that the accessed fluids are more heterogeneous in electrochemically active microbial populations than previously predicted from the stable community composition. As previously reported, the fracture fluid and surface‐attached microbial communities at SURF differed significantly. However, only minimal differences in community composition were observed between poised potential electrodes, open circuit electrodes, and mineral incubations. These data support that in this environment the ability to attach to surfaces is a stronger driver of microbial community structure than the type or reactivity of the surface. We demonstrate that insight into specific activities can be gained from electrochemical methods, specifically chronoamperometry coupled with routine cyclic voltammetry, which provide a sensitive approach to evaluate microbial activities in situ.
Improvement in mechanical properties of enamel via carbon nanotube addition
Authors: Wang Yue , Xu Kunshan , Zhang Lei , Chen Zeheng , Liang Shuangshuang , Li Zhiheng
Published: November 2020

Enameled metal equipment exploits the strength of metal materials and the corrosion resistance of enamel; therefore, it is widely used in the chemical industry. However, the mechanical properties of the enamel restrict its service life. Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are one‐dimensional nanomaterials with high‐specific surface area, C–C bond structure, and SP2 hybrid orbital. Herein, the effect of the dosage of MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of enamel is studied by adding MWCNTs to improve the mechanical properties of the enamel. Microscopic observation showed that the toughening mechanism of MWCNTs was mainly manifested in fracture and pull out behaviors. According to three‐point bending test, when 0.4 wt% carbon nanotubes were added, the reinforcing effect of enamel layer reached the best state. These results provide reference for optimizing the formulation of enamel and extending the service life of enamel.
Chemosensory proteins participate in insecticide susceptibility in Rhopalosiphum padi, a serious pest on wheat crops
Authors: Peng X. , Qu M. J. , Wang S. J. , Huang Y. X. , Chen C. , Chen M. H.
Published: November 2020

Rhopalosiphum padi is a worldwide agricultural pest. Chemosensory proteins (CSPs) are considered to be a type of transporters which can bind chemicals from external environments. Previous research showed that the expression of some insect CSPs were significantly increased after exposure to insecticides, and CSPs were involved in insecticide resistance or susceptibility. However, the role of CSPs in the susceptibility and response of R. padi to insecticides is still unknown. In this study, we identified eight CSP (RpCSP) from R. padi by genome‐wide investigation. Seven RpCSP genes had two exons, while RpCSP7 had three exons. qPCR analyses showed that the mRNA levels of the eight RpCSP genes were significantly affected by imidacloprid and beta‐cypermethrin in different post‐treatment periods. Molecular docking predicted that there were hydrogen bonding sites which played key roles in binding of RpCSP4, RpCSP5, RpCSP6, RpCSP7 and RpCSP10 with imidacloprid and beta‐cypermethrin. Knockdown of RpCSP4, RpCSP5, RpCSP6 and RpCSP10 by RNA interference significantly increased the aphid mortality under two sublethal concentrations of imidacloprid. Mortalities under two sublethal concentrations of beta‐cypermethrin conditions were significantly higher after injection of R. padi with dsCSP4 and dsCSP6. The results indicate that some RpCSP genes are involved in the insecticide susceptibility of R. padi.
Cask methylation involved in the injury of insulin secretion function caused by interleukin1‐β
Authors: Wang Tian‐yuan , Liu Xing‐jing , Xie Jin‐yang , Yuan Qing‐zhao , Wang Yao
Published: November 2020

Islet inflammation severely impairs pancreatic β‐cell function, but the specific mechanisms are still unclear. Interleukin1‐β (IL‐1β), an essential inflammatory factor, exerts a vital role in multiple physio‐pathologic processes, including diabetes. Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent serine protein kinase (CASK) is an important regulator especially in insulin secretion process. This study aims to unveil the function of CASK in IL‐1β–induced insulin secretion dysfunction and the possible mechanism thereof. Islets of Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats and INS‐1 cells stimulated with IL‐1β were utilized as models of chronic inflammation. Insulin secretion function associated with Cask and DNA methyltransferases (DNMT) expression were assessed. The possible mechanisms of IL‐1β‐induced pancreatic β‐cell dysfunction were also explored. In this study, CASK overexpression effectively improved IL‐1β‐induced islet β‐cells dysfunction, increased insulin secretion. DNA methyltransferases and the level of methylation in the promoter region of Cask were elevated after IL‐1β administration. Methyltransferase inhibitor 5‐Aza‐2’‐deoxycytidine (5‐Aza‐dC) and si‐DNMTs partially up‐regulated CASK expression and reversed potassium stimulated insulin secretion (KSIS) and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) function under IL‐1β treatment in INS‐1 and rat islets. These results reveal a previously unknown effect of IL‐1β on insulin secretion dysfunction and demonstrate a novel pathway for Cask silencing based on activation of DNA methyltransferases via inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and modification of gene promoter methylation.
Shared decision‐making and maternity care in the deep learning age: Acknowledging and overcoming inherited defeaters
Authors: Begley Keith , Begley Cecily , Smith Valerie
Published: November 2020

In recent years there has been an explosion of interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) both in health care and academic philosophy. This has been due mainly to the rise of effective machine learning and deep learning algorithms, together with increases in data collection and processing power, which have made rapid progress in many areas. However, use of this technology has brought with it philosophical issues and practical problems, in particular, epistemic and ethical. In this paper the authors, with backgrounds in philosophy, maternity care practice and clinical research, draw upon and extend a recent framework for shared decision‐making (SDM) that identified a duty of care to the client's knowledge as a necessary condition for SDM. This duty entails the responsibility to acknowledge and overcome epistemic defeaters. This framework is applied to the use of AI in maternity care, in particular, the use of machine learning and deep learning technology to attempt to enhance electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). In doing so, various sub‐kinds of epistemic defeater, namely, transparent, opaque, underdetermined, and inherited defeaters are taxonomized and discussed. The authors argue that, although effective current or future AI‐enhanced EFM may impose an epistemic obligation on the part of clinicians to rely on such systems' predictions or diagnoses as input to SDM, such obligations may be overridden by inherited defeaters, caused by a form of algorithmic bias. The existence of inherited defeaters implies that the duty of care to the client's knowledge extends to any situation in which a clinician (or anyone else) is involved in producing training data for a system that will be used in SDM. Any future AI must be capable of assessing women individually, taking into account a wide range of factors including women's preferences, to provide a holistic range of evidence for clinical decision‐making.