bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PETROLEUM SYSTEMS OF THE BONGOR BASIN AND THE GREAT BAOBAB OILFIELD, SOUTHERN CHAD
Authors: Dou Lirong , Cheng Dingsheng , Wang Jingchun , Du Yebo , Xiao Gaojie , Wang Renchong
Published: June 2020

The Bongor Basin in southern Chad is an inverted rift basin located on Precambrian crystalline basement which is linked regionally to the Mesozoic – Cenozoic Western and Central African Rift System. Pay zones present in nearby rift basins (e.g. Upper Cretaceous and Paleogene reservoirs overlying Lower Cretaceous source rocks) are absent from the Bongor Basin, having been removed during latest Cretaceous – Paleogene inversion‐related uplift and erosion. This study characterizes the petroleum system of the Bongor Basin through systematic analyses of source rocks, reservoirs and cap rocks.

Geochemical analyses of core plug samples of dark mudstones indicate that source rock intervals are present in Lower Cretaceous lacustrine shales of the Mimosa and upper Prosopis Formations. In addition, these mudstones are confirmed as a regional seal. Reservoir units include both Lower Cretaceous sandstones and Precambrian basement rocks, and mature source rocks may also act as a potential reservoir for shale oil. Dominant structural styles are large‐scale inversion anticlines in the Lower Cretaceous succession whilst underlying “buried hill” ‐type basement plays may also be important. Accumulations of heavy to light oils and gas have been discovered in Lower Cretaceous sandstones and basement reservoirs.

The Great Baobab field, the largest discovery in the Bongor Basin with about 1.5 billion barrels of oil in‐place, is located in the Northern Slope, a structural unit near the northern margin of the basin. Reservoirs are Lower Cretaceous syn‐rift sandstones and weathered and fractured zones in the crystalline basement. The field currently produces about 32,000 barrels of oil per day.
Pharmacometabolomics with a combination of PLS‐DA and random forest algorithm analyses reveal meloxicam alters feline plasma metabolite profiles
Authors: Broughton‐Neiswanger Liam E. , Rivera‐Velez Sol M. , Suarez Martin A. , Slovak Jennifer E. , Hwang Julianne K. , Villarino Nicolas F.
Published: June 2020

Repeated administration of meloxicam to cats is often limited by the potential damage to multiple organ systems. Identifying molecules that predict the adverse effects of meloxicam would help to monitor and individualize its administration, maximizing meloxicam's beneficial effects. The objectives of this study were to (a) determine if the repeated administration of meloxicam to cats alters the plasma metabolome and (b) identify plasma metabolites that may serve to monitor during the administration of meloxicam in cats. Purpose bred young adult cats (n = 12) were treated with meloxicam at 0.3 mg/kg or saline subcutaneously once daily for up to 17 days. An untargeted metabolomics approach was applied to plasma samples collected prior to and at designated time points after meloxicam or saline administration. To refine the discovery of biomarkers, the machine‐learning algorithms, partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) and random forest (RF), were trained and validated using a separate unrelated group of meloxicam‐ and saline‐treated cats (n = 8). A total of 74 metabolites were included in the statistical analysis. Metabolomic analysis shows that the repeated administration of meloxicam alters multiple substances in plasma, including nonvolatile organic acids, aromatic amino acids, monosaccharides, and inorganic compounds as early as four days following administration of meloxicam. Seventeen plasma molecules were able to distinguish meloxicam‐treated from saline‐treated cats. The metabolomic changes discovered in this study may help to unveil unknown mechanisms of NSAID‐induced side effects. In addition, some metabolites could be valuable for individualizing the administration of meloxicam to cats to mitigate adverse effects.
“They Think I'm a Lawyer”: Undocumented College Students as Legal Brokers for Their Undocumented Parents
Authors: Delgado Vanessa
Published: June 2020

Past research demonstrates that children of immigrants serve as language and cultural brokers for their parents. However, much of this work centers on immigrants with protected legal status. Drawing on thirty in‐depth interviews with undocumented college students, I conceptualize the phenomenon of legal brokering to capture how undocumented students share legal resources with their parents. In addition to this conceptualization, I find that four factors shaped how students served as legal brokers: (1) online platforms; (2) institutional support; (3) networks of support; and (4) involvement in immigrant rights organizations. These findings advance theoretical frameworks in segmented assimilation theory, sociolegal studies, and immigrant illegality.
Lymphocyte‐C‐reactive protein ratio as a novel prognostic index in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A multicentre cohort study
Authors: Lu Liang‐He , Zhong Chong , Wei Wei , Li Shao‐Hua , Mei Jie , Zou Jing‐wen , Guo Rong‐Ping , Zhang Yong‐Fa
Published: June 2020

Background & Aims

The lymphocyte‐C‐reactive protein ratio (LCR) is a novel inflammatory‐based score, based solely on the lymphocyte and C‐reactive protein. We aimed to clarify the prognostic value of the LCR score in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) patients after resection.

Methods

We compared the prognostic accuracy of the LCR score with other inflammatory‐based scores in this large, multicentre cohort study. The independent variables associated with overall survival (OS) were explored in both the primary (n = 228) and validation cohorts (n = 135). Harrell's concordance index (C‐index) was used to compare the predictive ability of all the assessed inflammatory‐based scores.

Results

The LCR score was differentiated two groups of ICC patients with distinct prognoses (1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year OS rates: 94.4%, 66.3%, and 59.3%; and 66.6%, 45.6%, and 32.7%, respectively) (P < .001). Multivariate analysis showed that the LCR score, as well as the TNM stage and preoperative CA19‐9 level, were independently associated with OS. The predictive accuracy of the LCR score (c score: 0.634) was superior to that of the other inflammatory‐based scores (c scores: 0.508‐0.615). These findings were supported by the external validation cohort.

Conclusion

The LCR score is stable and consistently the best prognostic score and may offer as a simple, objective and discriminatory method in facilitating the risk stratification of ICC patients.
Choledochal malformations in adults in the Netherlands: Results from a nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: de Kleine Ruben H. , Schreuder A. Marthe , ten Hove Anneke , Hulscher Jan B. F. , Borel Rinkes Inne H. M. , Dejong Cornelis H. C. , de Jonge Jeroen , de Reuver Philip , Erdmann Joris , Kazemier Geert ,   the PALGA Foundation, van Gulik Thomas M. , Gouw Annette S. H. , Porte Robert J.
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims

Patients with a choledochal malformation, formerly described as cysts, are at increased risk of developing a cholangiocarcinoma and resection is recommended. Given the low incidence of choledochal malformation (CM) in Western countries, the incidence in these countries is unclear. Our aim was to assess the incidence of malignancy in CM patients and to assess postoperative outcome.

Methods

In a nationwide, retrospective study, all adult patients who underwent surgery for CM between 1990 and 2016 were included. Patients were identified through the Dutch Pathology Registry and local patient records and were analysed to determine the incidence of malignancy, as well as postoperative mortality and morbidity.

Results

A total of 123 patients with a CM were included in the study (Todani Type I, n = 71; Type II, n = 10; Type III, n = 3; Type IV, n = 27; unknown, n = 12). Median age was 40 years (range 18‐70) and 81% were female. The majority of patients (99/123) underwent extrahepatic bile duct resection, with additional liver parenchyma resections in eight patients, only exploration in two, and a local cyst resection in eight patients. Postoperative 30‐day mortality was 2% (2/123) and limited to patients who underwent liver resection. Severe morbidity occurred in 24%. In 14 of the 123 patients (11%), a malignancy was found in the resected specimen. One patient developed a periampullary malignancy 7 years later.

Conclusions

In a large Western series of CM patients, 11% were found to have a malignancy. This justifies resection in these patients, despite the risk of morbidity (24%) and mortality (2%).
Regorafenib in patients with advanced Child‐Pugh B hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Kim Hyung‐Don , Bang Yeonghak , Lee Myung Ah , Kim Jin Won , Kim Jee Hyun , Chon Hong Jae , Kang Beodeul , Kang Myoung Joo , Kim Ilhwan , Cheon Jaekyung , Hwang Jun‐Eul , Kang Jung Hun , Byeon Seonggyu , Hong Jung Yong , Ryoo Baek‐Yeol , Lim Ho Yeong , Yoo Changhoon
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Regorafenib is an approved agent in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who progressed on sorafenib, but little is known about its clinical outcomes in Child‐Pugh B patients. We aimed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of regorafenib in Child‐Pugh B HCC patients.

Methods

This multicentre retrospective study included 59 patients with Child‐Pugh B HCC who received regorafenib. Comparative analyses were performed with an independent cohort of Child‐Pugh class A patients from the same registry (n = 440).

Results

The median age was 58 years (range, 19‐83). All patients had progression on prior sorafenib. Regorafenib was given as 2nd line, and 3rd‐4th line systemic therapy in 37 (62.7%) and 22 (37.3%) patients respectively. Compared to Child‐Pugh A cohort, grade 3‐4 AEs were more common in the Child‐Pugh B cohort (27.1% vs 14.1%, P = .017). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 1.8 and 4.6 months, respectively, and these were significantly poorer than the Child‐Pugh A cohort (P = .008 and P < .001 respectively). Child‐Pugh B patients with albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) grade 3 had a significantly higher frequency of increased bilirubin (P = .01 for any grade and P = .01 for grade 3‐4) and showed significantly poorer OS (P = .021), compared to those with ALBI grade 1 or 2.

Conclusion

Regorafenib's poor clinical outcomes and increased frequency of severe adverse events lead us to discourage its use in the Child‐Pugh B population. In particular, regorafenib should not be used in Child‐Pugh B patients with ALBI grade 3.
Accounting for environmental variation in co‐occurrence modelling reveals the importance of positive interactions in root‐associated fungal communities
Authors: Abrego Nerea , Roslin Tomas , Huotari Tea , Tack Ayco J. M. , Lindahl Björn D. , Tikhonov Gleb , Somervuo Panu , Schmidt Niels Martin , Ovaskainen Otso
Published: June 2020

Understanding the role of interspecific interactions in shaping ecological communities is one of the central goals in community ecology. In fungal communities, measuring interspecific interactions directly is challenging because these communities are composed of large numbers of species, many of which are unculturable. An indirect way of assessing the role of interspecific interactions in determining community structure is to identify the species co‐occurrences that are not constrained by environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated co‐occurrences among root‐associated fungi, asking whether fungi co‐occur more or less strongly than expected based on the environmental conditions and the host plant species examined. We generated molecular data on root‐associated fungi of five plant species evenly sampled along an elevational gradient at a high arctic site. We analysed the data using a joint species distribution modelling approach that allowed us to identify those co‐occurrences that could be explained by the environmental conditions and the host plant species, as well as those co‐occurrences that remained unexplained and thus more probably reflect interactive associations. Our results indicate that not only negative but also positive interactions play an important role in shaping microbial communities in arctic plant roots. In particular, we found that mycorrhizal fungi are especially prone to positively co‐occur with other fungal species. Our results bring new understanding to the structure of arctic interaction networks by suggesting that interactions among root‐associated fungi are predominantly positive.
Seeing but not believing: Insights into the intractability of failure to fail
Authors: Gingerich Andrea , Sebok‐Syer Stefanie S. , Larstone Roseann , Watling Christopher J. , Lingard Lorelei
Published: June 2020

Context

Inadequate documentation of observed trainee incompetence persists despite research‐informed solutions targeting this failure to fail phenomenon. Documentation could be impeded if assessment language is misaligned with how supervisors conceptualise incompetence. Because frameworks tend to itemise competence as well as being vague about incompetence, assessment design may be improved by better understanding and describing of how supervisors experience being confronted with a potentially incompetent trainee.

Methods

Following constructivist grounded theory methodology, analysis using a constant comparison approach was iterative and informed data collection. We interviewed 22 physicians about their experiences supervising trainees who demonstrate incompetence; we quickly found that they bristled at the term ‘incompetence,’ so we began to use ‘underperformance’ in its place.

Results

Physicians began with a belief and an expectation: all trainees should be capable of learning and progressing by applying what they learn to subsequent clinical experiences. Underperformance was therefore unexpected and evoked disbelief in supervisors, who sought alternate explanations for the surprising evidence. Supervisors conceptualised underperformance as: an inability to engage with learning due to illness, a life event or learning disorders, so that progression was stalled, or an unwillingness to engage with learning due to lack of interest, insight or humility.

Conclusion

Physicians conceptualise underperformance as problematic progression due to insufficient engagement with learning that is unresponsive to intensified supervision. Although failure to fail tends to be framed as a reluctance to document underperformance, the prior phase of disbelief prevents confident documentation of performance and delays identification of underperformance. The findings offer further insight and possible new solutions to address under‐documentation of underperformance.
Rhizosphere control of soil nitrogen cycling: a key component of plant economic strategies
Authors: Henneron Ludovic , Kardol Paul , Wardle David A. , Cros Camille , Fontaine Sébastien
Published: June 2020

Understanding how plant species influence soil nutrient cycling is a major theme in terrestrial ecosystem ecology. However, the prevailing paradigm has mostly focused on litter decomposition, while rhizosphere effects on soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition have attracted little attention.

Using a dual 13C/15N labeling approach in a ‘common garden’ glasshouse experiment, we investigated how the economic strategies of 12 grassland plant species (graminoids, forbs and legumes) drive soil nitrogen (N) cycling via rhizosphere processes, and how this in turn affects plant N acquisition and growth.

Acquisitive species with higher photosynthesis, carbon rhizodeposition and N uptake than conservative species induced a stronger acceleration of soil N cycling through rhizosphere priming of SOM decomposition. This allowed them to take up larger amounts of N and allocate it above ground to promote photosynthesis, thereby sustaining their faster growth. The N2‐fixation ability of legumes enhanced rhizosphere priming by promoting photosynthesis and rhizodeposition.

Our study demonstrates that the economic strategies of plant species regulate a plant–soil carbon–nitrogen feedback operating through the rhizosphere. These findings provide novel mechanistic insights into how plant species with contrasting economic strategies sustain their nutrition and growth through regulating the cycling of nutrients by soil microbes in their rhizosphere.
Modeling the impact of social network measures on institutional adaptive capacity needed for sustainable governance of water resources
Authors: Salajegheh Sosan , Jafari Hamid R. , Pourebrahim Sharareh
Published: June 2020

Given the hydrological, social, and economic complexity of water resources, planning for evaluation of such resources is extremely challenging. The vulnerability and limitations of water resources in one hand, and the growing demand on the other hand necessitates integrated planning for resource protection. Accordingly, applying Smart partial least squares software for structural equation modeling using the partial least square path modeling, the impact of social network measures upon the adaptive capacity of organizational stakeholders faced with water scarcity in industries of Kerman Province was scrutinized in the present study. To investigate the structural position of actors (organizational stakeholders) within the social network, relevant data was extracted and thereafter used to estimate the dependent variables of research (dimensions of adaptation). It was found out that there is significant correlation between the measures of stakeholders' network and the adaptive capacity. Closeness centrality (access to information sources related to water) was found to have the strongest effect on fair governance and leadership, necessary for higher adaptive capacity. On the contrary, betweenness centrality (revealing intermediary actors capable of consensus building) was found to have a negative effect on the adaptive capacity. In other words, better access to the flow of information related to water resources enhances the adaptive capacity of stakeholders but the presence of actors of high betweenness centrality, who are reluctant to an adaptive governance system, decreases adaptive capacity.

Recommendations for Resource Managers:

Establishment of a polycentric governance system that requires power sharing, coordination, and collaboration of all involved actors and stakeholders.

Considering water rights in exploiting water resources.

Instructing and educating executive managers of water industry projects for increasing adaptive capacity against water scarcity.

Creating integrated watershed management.

Development of social network analysis knowledge for analyzing the relationships of stakeholders and the governance network of natural resources and environment.
Pyk2 deficiency enhances bone mass during midpalatal suture expansion
Authors: Sun Jun , Eleniste Pierre P. , Utreja Achint , Turkkahraman Hakan , Liu Sean Shih‐Yao , Bruzzaniti Angela
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine if Pyk2 deficiency increases midpalatal suture bone mass and preserves sutural integrity after maxillary expansion.

Setting and Sample

Thirty‐six male Pyk2 knockout (KO) and control (WT) mice at 6 weeks of age.

Materials and Methods

Mice received nickel‐titanium spring expanders delivering 0 g (no intervention control), 10 or 20 g force for 14 days. High‐resolution micro‐CT was used to determine bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV), sutural width and intermolar width. Effects on osteoclasts, chondrocytes and suture morphology were determined by histomorphometry.

Results

Pyk2‐KO controls (0 g) had 7% higher BV/TV compared with WT controls. Expanded Pyk2‐KO maxillae also exhibited 12% (10 g) and 18% (20 g) higher BV/TV than WT mice. Although bone loss following expansion occurred in both genotypes, BV/TV was decreased to a greater extent in WT maxillae (−10% at 10g; −22% at 20 g) compared with Pyk2‐KO maxillae (−11% only at 20 g). Expanded WT maxillae also showed a greater increase in sutural width, intermolar width and fibrous connective tissue width compared with expanded Pyk2‐KO maxillae. Moreover, osteoclast number was increased 77% (10 g) and 132% (20 g) in expanded WT maxillae, but remained unchanged in expanded Pyk2‐KO, compared to their respective controls. Cartilage area and chondrocyte number were increased to the same extent in expanded WT and Pyk2‐KO sutures.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that midpalatal suture expansion increases osteoclast formation in WT but not Pyk2‐KO mice, leading to higher BV/TV in expanded Pyk2‐KO maxillae. These studies suggest Pyk2‐targeted strategies may be beneficial to increase bone density and preserve sutural integrity during maxillary expansion.
The chemokine lymphotactin and its recombinant variants in oral cancer cell regulation
Authors: Abdullah Zubir Amir Zaki , Whawell Simon A. , Wong Tuck Seng , Khurram Syed Ali
Published: June 2020

Background

The expression of XCR1 receptor and its metamorphic ligand lymphotactin (hLtn) has been shown in cancers but their precise role in tumorigenesis is poorly understood including the significance of the physiologically existing hLtn monomeric (CC3) and dimeric (W55D) confirmations where the latter thought to function as the receptor antagonist. The aim of this study was to explore the functional role of bioengineered hLtn variants and the role of fibroblasts in XCR1/hLtn expression regulation in oral cancer cells (OCCL).

Material and methods

qRT‐PCR and flow cytometry were performed to evaluate mRNA and protein expression of XCR1 and hLtn. Recombinant hLtn variants (wild‐type, CC3 and W55D mutant) were designed, expressed, purified and evaluated using proliferation, adhesion and chemotaxis assays. XCR1 and hLtn expression regulation by fibroblasts was determined using indirect co‐culture. XCR1 and hLtn expression in primary and metastatic OSCC tissue was assessed using immunohistochemistry.

Results

hLtn caused a significant decrease in OCCL XCR1 surface protein expression. hLtn CC3 mutant was highly functional facilitating proliferation and migration. Conditioned media from primary cancer‐associated and senescent fibroblasts significantly upregulated XCR1 and hLtn mRNA expression in OCCL. Immunohistochemistry revealed higher XCR1 and hLtn expression in metastatic tumour deposits and surrounding stroma compared to primary OSCC tissue.

Conclusions

The development of hLtn biological mutants, regulation of XCR1 expression by its ligand hLtn and crosstalk with fibroblasts are novel findings suggesting an important role for the XCR1/hLtn axis within the OSCC tumour microenvironment. These discoveries build upon previous studies and suggest that the hLtn/XCR1 axis has a significant role in stromal crosstalk and OSCC progression.
Eating barbed wire: Direct and indirect defensive roles of non‐glandular trichomes
Authors: Kaur Ishveen , Kariyat Rupesh R.
Published: June 2020

This article comments on: Nonglandular silicified trichomes are essential for rice defense against chewing herbivores
Functions and regulatory framework of ZmNST3 in maize under lodging and drought stress
Authors: Ren Zhenzhen , Zhang Dongling , Cao Liru , Zhang Weiqiang , Zheng Hongjian , Liu Zhixue , Han Shengbo , Dong Yahui , Zhu Fangfang , Liu Huafeng , Su Huihui , Chen Yanhui , Wu Liancheng , Zhu Yingfang , Ku Lixia
Published: June 2020

The growth and development of maize are negatively affected by various abiotic stresses including drought, high salinity, extreme temperature, and strong wind. Therefore, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying abiotic stress resistance in maize. In the present work, we identified that a novel NAC transcriptional factor, ZmNST3, enhances maize lodging resistance and drought stress tolerance. ChIP‐Seq and expression of target genes analysis showed that ZmNST3 could directly regulate the expression of genes related to cell wall biosynthesis which could subsequently enhance lodging resistance. Furthermore, we also demonstrated that ZmNST3 affected the expression of genes related to the synthesis of antioxidant enzyme secondary metabolites that could enhance drought resistance. More importantly, we are the first to report that ZmNST3 directly binds to the promoters of CESA5 and Dynamin‐Related Proteins2A (DRP2A) and activates the expression of genes related to secondary cell wall cellulose biosynthesis. Additionally, we revealed that ZmNST3 directly binds to the promoters of GST/GlnRS and activates genes which could enhance the production of antioxidant enzymes in vivo. Overall, our work contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory network of ZmNST3 in regulating maize lodging and drought stress resistance.
Hate Speech Epidemic. The Dynamic Effects of Derogatory Language on Intergroup Relations and Political Radicalization
Authors: Bilewicz Michał , Soral Wiktor
Published: June 2020

Exposure to derogatory language about immigrants and minority groups leads to political radicalization and deteriorates intergroup relations. This article addresses the psychological processes responsible for these effects as well as those involved in hate‐speech proliferation in contemporary societies and discusses the factors that constrain its growth. We propose that frequent exposure to hate speech has severe effects on emotional, behavioral, and normative levels. Exposure to hate speech results in empathy being replaced by intergroup contempt as a dominant response to others—it is both a motivator and a consequence of derogatory language. The increased presence of hate speech in one's environment creates a sense of a descriptive norm that allows outgroup derogation. This leads to the erosion of existing antidiscriminatory norms. Finally, through a process of desensitization, hate speech reduces people's ability to recognize the offensive character of such language. Based on empirical evidence from the fields of social psychology and psychology of emotion and aggression, we propose a model that explains the described processes, and we trace the dynamics of this model using an agent‐based modeling approach. We show that the mechanisms potentially effective in constraining hate‐speech proliferation (empathy, norms) are eroded by hate speech itself. We argue that through basic psychological dynamics, societies become more accepting of derogatory language and less accepting of immigrants, as well as religious, ethnic, and sexual minorities.
Impact of exogenously applied trehalose on leaf biochemistry, achene yield and oil composition of sunflower under drought stress
Authors: Kosar Firdos , Akram Nudrat Aisha , Ashraf Muhammad , Ahmad Abrar , Alyemeni Mohammed Nasser , Ahmad Parvaiz
Published: June 2020

This study was carried out to assess the influence of trehalose, a non‐reducing disaccharide involved in improving plant stress tolerance, on two cultivars (Hysun 33 and FH 598) of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) grown under control and drought stress conditions. At pre‐flowering stage, varying concentrations (10, 20 and 30 mM) of trehalose were applied to the foliage. Drought stress significantly suppressed the plant growth, total soluble proteins, chlorophyll, achene yield per plant, oil percentage, organic contents, as well as oil palmitic and linoleic acids in both sunflower cultivars. External application of trehalose significantly reduced RMP (relative membrane permeability), and the accumulation of H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide), while a considerable improvement was recorded in shoot fresh and shoot and root dry weights, total soluble proteins, glycinebetaine, AsA (ascorbic acid), total phenolics, achene yield per plant, oil contents, inorganic and organic contents, and the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) enzymes under water‐limited regimes. The cultivar Hysun 33 was superior to the other cultivar in plant growth, RMP, glycinebetaine, proline, achene yield per plant, oil contents, and palmitic and linoleic acids. Overall, foliar‐applied trehalose improved plant growth, oxidative defense system, yield and oil composition of sunflower under drought stress conditions.
Selective breeding of edible bivalves and its implication of global climate change
Authors: Tan Karsoon , Zhang Hongkuan , Zheng Huaiping
Published: June 2020

Bivalve molluscs are very nutritious and are an important source of human animal protein. To date, bivalve farming has contributed to about 15% of the mean per capita animal protein intake of approximate 1.5 billion people around the world. Unfortunately, the effects of climate change, mainly global warming and ocean acidification, have had many deleterious effects on bivalve aquaculture, not only leading to mass mortalities of bivalves in farms and hatcheries, but also causing collapse of natural bivalve populations. In response to the recurrent mass mortalities of farmed bivalves, many selective breeding programmes have been launched with the breeding goal of reducing mortality rate caused by disease outbreaks and changing ocean conditions. This article reviews the progress and potential of selective breeding of edible bivalves in the context of global climate change. It is clear from the literature that in terms of environmental sensitivity, and disease resistance and tolerance, selective breeding has great potential for improving the robustness of edible bivalves with significant heritability and genetic gain. Because the robustness of edible bivalves to climate change is a complex trait affected by multiple genes, the application of modern genomic tools in selective breeding is expected to dramatically enhance the accuracy and efficacy of genetic improvements and produce bivalve strains that are robust to climate change. The information in this article is very useful for guidance on adaptation strategies for climate‐smart bivalve aquaculture solutions to be implemented in bivalve hatcheries and farms.
Xanthan gum and locust bean gum substrate improves bovine embryo development
Authors: Hara Shunsuke , Aoki Sogo , Nagata Miki , Shirasuna Koumei , Noguchi Tatsuo , Iwata Hisataka
Published: June 2020

One of the major difference between the in vivo and in vitro embryonic environments is the stiffness of the culture substrate. Xanthan gum (XG) and locust bean gum (LBG) are natural materials that are safe, inexpensive and easy to handle. In this study, we investigated the effects of using a polysaccharide culture substrate made from 1% XG and 1% LBG (XG‐LBG gel) on bovine embryonic development. Oocytes collected from bovine ovaries were subjected to maturation, and fertilization to generate embryos at an early developmental stage (>4 cell stage). Cleaved embryos were further cultured in a well of 96‐well cell culture plate coated with or without XG‐LBG gel for 5 days. While the developmental rate up to the blastocyst stage did not differ between the two culture systems (control, 38.0 vs. gel, 38.6%), blastocysts developed on the XG‐LBG gel produced significantly high cell numbers and ATP content. Embryos cultured on XG‐LBG gels for 24 hr had high expression levels of F‐actin and a highly even distribution of E‐cadherin. In addition, embryos developed on XG‐LBG gel demonstrated increased translocation of YAP to the nucleus and increased connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) protein levels (downstream of Hippo signalling). These findings suggest that soft culture substrates improve embryonic development by enhancing mechanotransduction, including YAP‐CTGF signalling.
Current management strategies in Osgood Schlatter: A cross‐sectional mixed‐method study
Authors: Lyng Kristian Damgaard , Rathleff Michael Skovdal , Dean Benjamin John Floyd , Kluzek Stefan , Holden Sinead
Published: June 2020

Background

Osgood Schlatter disease (OSD) is the most common knee condition in adolescent athletes aged 9‐16. Without evidence to guide clinical practice, it is unclear how OSD is managed. The aim of this study was to investigate how international healthcare professionals (general practitioners, physiotherapists, rheumatologists, sports and exercise medicine doctors, and orthopedic surgeons) diagnose and manage OSD.

Methods

This mixed‐method study used a convergent parallel design. A quantitative questionnaire and semi‐structured interview covered prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and return to play of adolescents with OSD. For quantitative data, those who reported likely/very likely considered “for” and unlikely/very unlikely “against” (for specific diagnostic/management strategy). Qualitative data analysis used a phenomenological approach.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐one healthcare professionals completed the questionnaire. The most common diagnostic criterion was pain at the tibial tuberosity (97% for). The most common treatments were patient education (99%) and exercise therapy (92%). Other treatment options were more heterogeneous, for example, pain medication (31% for and 34% against). Managing training load (97%), pain intensity (87%), and psychological factors (86%) were considered the most important factors influencing the return to activities. Several themes emerged from the interviews (on N = 20) including imaging, pain management, family, and psychosocial factors influencing prognosis.

Conclusion

Diagnosis criteria of OSD were relatively well agreed upon, whereas the triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data showed heterogeneity of treatments. Psychosocial factors including family were highlighted as critical in the management of OSD.
Prospective relations of preschoolers’ prosocial and aggressive affect themes in pretend play with prosocial and aggressive behaviors across contexts
Authors: Marcelo Ana K. , Yates Tuppett M.
Published: June 2020

Children’s ability to engage in pretend play is important for healthy development. However, relative to cognitive play features, only a handful of studies have examined the influence of affect expression in pretend play on child development. This study evaluated prospective relations of 250 preschoolers’ (Mage = 49.05 months,SD = 2.95; 50% female; 46% Latinx) expressions of prosocial and aggressive affect themes in solitary pretend play with their prosocial and aggressive behaviors in laboratory and school settings two years later. Prosocial and aggressive affect themes in preschoolers’ pretend play evidenced specific and positive relations with prosocial and aggressive behaviors in the laboratory two years later, but not with teacher‐reported behaviors in school. Multigroup analyses indicated these relations did not vary as a function of child gender, ethnicity‐race, or poverty status. This study illustrates the complexity and behavioral significance of children’s affect expression in pretend play. Implications for understanding children’s play and social development include the need to consider affective (in addition to cognitive) play features, including specific affect themes in pretend play, as a potential window into children’s behavioral strengths and vulnerabilities.
Varied clinical presentation and outcome of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in liver transplant recipients: Initial experience at a single center in Madrid, Spain
Authors: Loinaz Carmelo , Marcacuzco Alberto , Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , Caso Oscar , Cambra Félix , San Juan Rafael , Justo Iago , Calvo Jorge , García‐Sesma Alvaro , Manrique Alejandro , Pérez‐Jacoiste Asín María Asunción , Folgueira María Dolores , Aguado José María , Lumbreras Carlos
Published: June 2020

Background

Which are the consequences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in liver transplant (LT) recipients?

Methods

We attempted to address this question by reviewing our single‐center experience during the first 2 months of the pandemics at a high incidence area.

Results

Nineteen adult patients (5 females) were diagnosed by May 5, 2020. Median age was 58 (range 55‐72), and median follow‐up since transplantation was 83 (range 20‐183) months. Cough (84.2%), fever (57.9%), and dyspnea (47.4%) were the most common symptoms. Thirteen patients (68.4%) had pneumonia in x‐ray/CT scan. Hydroxychloroquine was administered in 11 patients, associated with lopinavir/ritonavir and interferon β in 2 cases each. Immunomodulatory therapy with tocilizumab was used in 2 patients. Immunosuppression (IS) was halted in one patient and modified in only other two due to potential drug interactions. Five (26.3%) patients were managed as outpatient. Two patients (10.5%) died, 10 (52.6%) were discharged home, and 2 (10.5%) were still hospitalized after a median follow‐up of 41 days from the onset of symptoms. Baseline IS regimen remained unchanged in all surviving recipients, with good liver function.

Conclusions

Our preliminary experience shows a broad spectrum of disease severity in LT patients with COVID‐19, with a favorable outcome in most of them without needing to modify baseline IS.
A new index of globalisation: Measuring impacts of integration on economic growth and income inequality
Authors: Huh Hyeon‐Seung , Park Cyn‐Young
Published: June 2020

The debate over globalisation has intensified over the past decade. Recognition that globalisation comes with grave risks has garnered political support for regionalism as a strategy to build economic and financial resilience. This study is the first attempt to develop a new composite index of globalisation building on the separate contributions of intraregional and extraregional integration. The study also uses the new index to evaluate empirically the possible effects of globalisation on economic growth and income inequality. The index comprises 25 indicators that represent the key socioeconomic components of global integration. Principal component analysis is used to weight each component and construct an aggregate measure. The results show that although globalisation promotes economic growth, it may worsen income inequality. High‐income countries benefit most in that the positive effect of globalisation on economic growth is strongest among them than on other income groups, and they experience a less‐pronounced widening of income inequality. Between the two drivers of global economic integration, intraregional integration is far more important than extraregional integration. The analysis also shows extraregional integration turns out to be mainly responsible for the rise in income inequality that has accompanied globalisation.
Optical coherence tomography imaging of excised canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma tumours
Authors: Dornbusch Josephine A. , Selmic Laura E. , Huang Pin‐Chieh , Samuelson Jonathan P. , Cocca Christina , Wavreille Vincent A. , Boppart Stephen A.
Published: June 2020

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an optical imaging modality that has been investigated for real‐time surgical margin evaluation in human breast cancer patients. Previous veterinary OCT studies have been limited to surgical margin imaging for soft tissue sarcoma (STS) tumours. To the authors knowledge, OCT has never been used to characterize or evaluate other types of neoplasia in dogs. The goal of this study was to characterize the OCT imaging appearance of apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA) in excised ex vivo specimens from five client‐owned dogs. All excised tissue surgical margins were imaged using a clinical spectral domain OCT system and two to four areas suspicious for incomplete surgical margins were selected. These areas were inked and sections were trimmed for histopathology. This enabled OCT imaging from each area of interest to be compared with corresponding H&E stained histology imaging from the same location. OCT was able to identify the presence of AGASACA at or within 1 mm of the surgical margin in all areas of interest. AGASACA, similar to the previously described canine STS, generated a dense, highly scattering image without any specific textural architecture. This study was able to validate the ability of OCT to accurately identify another type of tumour presence at or close to the surgical margin in the dog. Further study is needed to assess OCT accuracy at identifying other tumour types in dogs to understand its potential clinical applications.
A combined current density technique for the electrochemical oxidation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) with boron‐doped diamond
Authors: Ensch Mary , Rusinek Cory A. , Becker Michael F. , Schuelke Thomas
Published: June 2020

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have unique properties that limit their degradability in the environment. One of these PFAS is an acid (PFOA). Electrochemical oxidation is a promising method for remediation, but energy costs are high. To limit the energy consumption, this study used a boron‐doped diamond (BDD) electrode stack and a combined current density technique that employed 50 mA/cm2 for the first 0.25 hours then lowered the current density to 1, 5, or 10 mA/cm2. This technique is similar to one developed previously; however, that method was only developed for compounds comprising of carbon, oxygen and nitrogen, whereas PFAS have the addition of fluorine. For the degradation of PFOA, the combined current density of 50 and 5 mA/cm2 (50&5) allowed for a 37% reduction in energy usage to obtain 75% defluorination compared to using 50 mA/cm2 alone. Further investigation into remediating an ion‐exchange regeneration solution shows great promise.
Late Cretaceous to Eocene denudation history of the Tolimán area, southern Sierra Madre Oriental, central Mexico
Authors: Guerrero-Paz Deisy N. , Abdullin* Fanis , Ortega-Flores Berlaine , Solari Luigi , Ortega-Obregón Carlos , Juárez-Arriaga Edgar
Published: June 2020

This study presents the first apatite fission-track results from the Tolimán area, which is located in the western portion of the southern Sierra Madre Oriental, central Mexico. In total, six rock samples from different lithostratigraphic units were dated, adding new results to the thermochronological data set of the Sierra de los Cuarzos–San Joaquín–Tamazunchale transect in the Mexican fold-and-thrust belt. The apatite fission-track ages vary from 84 ± 4 Ma to 52 ± 2 Ma, indicating that the main denudation period of the Tolimán area lasted until the Eocene. Combining our results with previous geological data, we suggest that the western part of the southern Sierra Madre Oriental was uplifted and undergoing erosion during the whole period of development of the Campanian–Ypresian Mexican orogenic system. Therefore, the Tolimán area may be considered as one of the source areas from which clastic materials of the Campanian–Maastrichtian Méndez and Paleocene–Eocene Velasco and Chicontepec Formations were partially derived. Older cooling ages recording the latest Aptian accretion of the Guerrero terrane with the Mexican continental interior were not detected in samples from the Tolimán area.
Late-term topical tacrolimus for subepithelial infiltrates resistant to
topical steroids and ciclosporin secondary to adenoviral
keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Arici Ceyhun , Mergen Burak
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Investigation of the efficacy and safety of 12 months of topical
tacrolimus 0.03% ointment treatment against the subepithelial infiltrates
(SEIs) due to adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) resisting at least 2 years
was aimed.

Methods

This case series included consecutive patients with SEIs secondary to AKC
who were resistant to topical steroid and ciclosporin-A (CSA) treatment and
treated with topical 0.03% tacrolimus (Protopic; Fujisawa Healthcare, Teva,
Deerfield, Illinois, USA) for 12 months, at least 2 years after AKC. For the
evaluation of treatment efficacy, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Fantes
score, corneal subepithelial infiltrate score (CSIS), Oxford score, Schirmer
and tear breakup time results were evaluated. Intraocular pressure and
complaints of the patients were followed for evaluating the safety profile of
the treatment. The patients were followed after the baseline visit at the 1st,
3rd, 6th and 12th month.

Results

15 eyes of 11 patients with SEIs and 16 eyes of 16 healthy controls were
included in this study. 1 patient (9.1%) could not tolerate the treatment.
Significant improvements in BCVA, CSIS, Fantes score and Schirmer results were
observed in the study group starting from the 3rd-month visit, and the
improvements persisted until the end of 12 months of treatment.

Conclusion

Topical 0.03% tacrolimus might show efficacy against the SEIs persisting
at least 2 years despite corticosteroid and/or CSA treatment without any
prominent side effect. While at least a period of 3 months was necessary for a
significant improvement in the BCVA, SEIs and Schirmer results, a period of
6 months was necessary for a decrease in Oxford score.
Private sector delivery of quality care for maternal, newborn and child health in low-income and middle-income countries: a mixed-methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Lattof Samantha R , Maliqi Blerta
Published: June 2020

Introduction

To accelerate progress to reach the sustainable development goals for ending preventable maternal, newborn and child deaths, it is critical that both the public and private health service delivery systems invest in increasing coverage of interventions to sustainably deliver quality care for mothers, newborns and children at scale. Although various approaches have been successful in high-income countries, little is known about how to effectively engage and sustain private sector involvement in delivering quality care in low-income and middle-income countries. Our systematic review will examine private sector implementation of quality care for maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) and the impact of this care. This protocol details our intended methodological and analytical approaches, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline for protocols.

Methods and analysis

Following the PRISMA approach, this systematic review will include quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies addressing the provision of quality MNCH care by private sector providers. Eight databases (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, EconLit, Excerpta Medica Database, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, Popline, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science) and two websites will be searched for relevant studies published between 1 January 1995 and 30 June 2019. For inclusion, studies in low-income and middle-income countries must examine at least one of the following critical outcomes: maternal morbidity or mortality, newborn morbidity or mortality, child morbidity or mortality, quality of care, experience of care and service utilisation. Depending on the data, analyses could include meta-analysis, descriptive quantitative statistics, narrative synthesis and thematic synthesis. Quality will be assessed using tools for qualitative and quantitative studies.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval is not required for this research, as the secondary data are not identifiable. Findings from this review will be used to develop models for effective collaboration of the private and public sectors in implementing quality of care for MNCH. In addition to publishing our findings in a peer-reviewed journal, the findings will be shared through the Quality of Care Network, relevant mailing lists, webinars and social media.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019143383