bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Correlation of Histopathologic Parameters With Mismatch Repair Protein-deficient Subgroups and MLH1 Methylation in Endometrial Carcinomas
Authors: Soylemez Tuce , Kir Gozde , Olgun Zeynep C. , Dur Safiye R. , Tosun Muzaffer I. , Ankarali Handan , Demircan Berna , Kaya Ibrahim A. , Karateke Ates
Published: November 2021

There are limited data regarding the correlation of clinical and pathologic parameters with mismatch repair (MMR) protein-deficient subgroups and methylation status. In this study, we analyzed the status of MMR proteins in resection specimens of 198 consecutive endometrial carcinomas and the methylation status in tumors with MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency. We, therefore, assessed the correlation of clinical and pathologic parameters with MMR protein-deficient subgroups. Univariate analysis revealed that deeper myometrial invasion and the presence of tumor-associated lymphocytes were more frequently observed in tumors with MMR protein deficiency (P=0.023 and 0.001, respectively). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that only the presence of tumor-associated lymphocytes was significantly associated with MMR protein deficiency (P=0.002, odds ratio=2.674, 95% confidence interval=1.418–5.045). We also compared MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency with other protein deficiency regarding clinical and pathologic parameters. Furthermore, we compared MLH1 methylated tumors with MMR protein-deficient nonmethylated tumors regarding clinical and pathologic parameters. MLH1 was methylated in 51 of 54 tumors with MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency. In univariate analysis, a larger tumor size was significantly associated with MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency and with MLH1 methylation (P=0.004 and 0.005, respectively). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a larger tumor size was significantly associated with MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency and MLH1 methylation (P=0.002, odds ratio=14.222, 95% confidence interval=2.560–79.026, P=0.008, odds ratio=22.222, 95% confidence interval=2.220–222.395, respectively). Our results showed a slightly higher rate of MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency (34.3%) than in previous studies. This may likely be due to ethnic differences in frequency of various mutations.
Vocal plasticity in harbour seal pups
Authors: Torres Borda Laura , Jadoul Yannick , Rasilo Heikki , Salazar Casals Anna , Ravignani Andrea
Published: November 2021

Vocal plasticity can occur in response to environmental and biological factors, including conspecifics' vocalizations and noise. Pinnipeds are one of the few mammalian groups capable of vocal learning, and are therefore relevant to understanding the evolution of vocal plasticity in humans and other animals. Here, we investigate the vocal plasticity of harbour seals (
Phoca vitulina
), a species with vocal learning abilities observed in adulthood but not puppyhood. To evaluate early mammalian vocal development, we tested 1–3 weeks-old seal pups. We tailored noise playbacks to this species and age to induce seal pups to shift their fundamental frequency (
f
0
), rather than adapt call amplitude or temporal characteristics. We exposed individual pups to low- and high-intensity bandpass-filtered noise, which spanned—and masked—their typical range of
f
0
; simultaneously, we recorded pups' spontaneous calls. Unlike most mammals, pups modified their vocalizations by lowering their
f
0
in response to increased noise. This modulation was precise and adapted to the particular experimental manipulation of the noise condition. In addition, higher levels of noise induced less dispersion around the mean
f
0
, suggesting that pups may have actively focused their phonatory efforts to target lower frequencies. Noise did not seem to affect call amplitude. However, one seal showed two characteristics of the Lombard effect known for human speech in noise: significant increase in call amplitude and flattening of spectral tilt. Our relatively low noise levels may have favoured
f
0
modulation while inhibiting amplitude adjustments. This lowering of
f
0
is unusual, as most animals commonly display no such
f
0
shift. Our data represent a relatively rare case in mammalian neonates, and have implications for the evolution of vocal plasticity and vocal learning across species, including humans.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Voice modulation: from origin and mechanism to social impact (Part I)’.
Metagenomic profiling of placental tissue suggests DNA virus infection of the placenta is rare
Authors: Witney Adam A. , Aller Sean , Strang Blair L.
Published: November 2021

It is widely recognized that pathogens can be transmitted across the placenta from mother to foetus. Recent re-evaluation of metagenomic studies indicates that the placenta has no unique microbiome of commensal bacteria. However, viral transmission across the placenta, including transmission of DNA viruses such as the human herpesviruses, is possible. A fuller understanding of which DNA virus sequence can be found in the placenta is required. We employed a metagenomic analysis to identify viral DNA sequences in placental metagenomes from full-term births (20 births), pre-term births (13 births), births from pregnancies associated with antenatal infections (12 births) or pre-term births with antenatal infections (three births). Our analysis found only a small number of DNA sequences corresponding to the genomes of human herpesviruses in four of the 48 metagenomes analysed. Therefore, our data suggest that DNA virus infection of the placenta is rare and support the concept that the placenta is largely free of pathogen infection.
Sensorless metal object detection for wireless power transfer using machine learning
Authors: Gong Yunyi , Otomo Yoshitsugu , Igarashi Hajime
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims to realize a sensorless metal object detection (MOD) using machine learning, to prevent the wireless power transfer (WPT) system from the risks of electric discharge and fire accidents caused by foreign metal objects.

Design/methodology/approach

The data constructed by analyzing the input impedance using the finite element method are used in machine learning. From the loci of the input impedance of systems, the trained neural network (NN), support vector machine and naive Bayes classifier judge if a metal object exists. Then the proposed method is tested by experiments too.

Findings

In the test using simulated data, all of the three machine learning methods show high accuracy of over 80% for detecting an aluminum cylinder. And in the experimental verifications, the existence of an aluminum cylinder and empty can are successfully identified by a NN.

Originality/value

This work provides a new sensorless MOD method for WPT using three machine learning methods. And it shows that NNs obtain high accuracy than the others in both simulated and experimental verifications.
Analytical calculation of leakage permeance of coreless axial flux permanent magnet generator
Authors: Zhu Jun , Li Shuaihui , Guo Xiangwei , Nan Huaichun , Yang Ming
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the relationship between leakage flux coefficient and the coreless axial magnetic field permanent magnet synchronous generator (AFPMSG) size and obtain the expressions of leakage flux coefficient.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a magnetic circuit model of coreless AFPMSG is proposed. Four kinds of leakage permeances of permanent magnet (PM) are considered, and the expression of no-load leakage flux coefficient is obtained. Solving the integral region of leakage permeances by generator size, which improves the accuracy of the solution.

Findings

Finite element method and magnetic circuit method are used to obtain the no-load leakage flux coefficient and its variation trend charts with the change of pole arc coefficient, air gap length and PM thickness. The average errors of the two methods are 2.835%, 0.84% and 1.347%, respectively. At the same time, the results of single-phase electromotive force obtained by magnetic circuit method, three dimensional finite element method and prototype experiments are 19.36 V, 18.82 V and 19.09 V, respectively. The results show that the magnetic circuit method is correct in calculating the no-load leakage flux coefficient.

Originality/value

The special structure of the coreless AFPMSG is considered in the presented equivalent magnetic circuit and equations, and the equations in this paper can be applied for leakage flux evaluating purposes and initial parameter selection of the coreless AFPMSG.
The framework of data-driven and multi-criteria decision-making for detecting unbalanced bidding
Authors: Li Huimin , Su Limin , Zuo Jian , An Xiaowei , Dong Guanghua , Wang Lunyan , Zhang Chengyi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Unbalanced bidding can seriously imposed the government from obtaining the best value for the taxpayers' money in public procurement since it increases the owner's cost and decreases the fairness of the competitive bidding process. How to detect an unbalanced bid is a challenging task faced by theoretical researchers and practical actors. This study aims to develop an identification method of unbalanced bidding in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The identification of unbalanced bidding is considered as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. A data-driven unit price database from the historical bidding document is built to present the reference unit prices as benchmarks. According to the proposed extended TOPSIS method, the data-driven unit price is chosen as the positive ideal solution, and the unit price that has the furthest absolute distance measure as the negative ideal solution. The concept of relative distance is introduced to measure the distances between positive and negative ideal solutions and each bidding unit price. The unbalanced bidding degree is ranked by means of relative distance.

Findings

The proposed model can be used for the quantitative evaluation of unbalanced bidding from a decision-making perspective. The identification process is developed according to the decision-making process. The finding shows that the model will support owners to efficiently and effectively identify unbalanced bidding in the bid evaluation stage.

Originality/value

The data-driven reference unit prices improve the accuracy of the benchmark to evaluate the unbalanced bidding. The extended TOPSIS model is applied to identify unbalanced bidding; the owners can undertake objective decision-making to identify and prevent unbalanced bidding at the stage of procurement.
Social commerce isn’t the cherry on the cake, its the new cake! How consumers’ attitudes and eWOM influence online purchase intention in China
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Akram Umair , Rasool Hassan , Yang Xiaoyan , Tanveer Yasir
Published: November 2021

Purpose

In the recent decade, social media popularity and growth have boosted the development of social commerce (SC). This study aims to explore the significant impact of guanxi (关系) elements (ganqing 感情, renqing 人情 and xinren 信任) on online purchase intentions. Furthermore, this study investigated the moderating role of social support between electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) and online purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted on 309 consumers who had online purchasing experience through WeChat, a famous social media application in China. Structural equational modeling was used to test all hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that guanxi elements are positively related to eWOM, affective attitude and online purchase intentions in SC. Additionally, social support has a significant moderating role between eWOM intention and online purchase intention.

Practical implications

Considering the effects of guanxi elements on eWOM affective attitude and online purchase intention in Chinese SC, online retailers are advised to carefully develop their marketing strategies to retain and attract new consumers. Furthermore, online retailers can use the findings from this study to understand the consequences when online purchase intention is strongly influenced by guanxi elements.

Originality/value

This research extends the current literature by applying the notion of guanxi components to the sense of SC and relating the notion of guanxi components and consumer decisions. The results show an understanding of the reality by which guanxi elements may affect the intention of eWOM sharing and boost online purchase intention.
Determinants of consumer intention to purchase food with safety certifications in emerging markets: evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Hai Minh , Liu Ran , Moritaka Masahiro , Fukuda Susumu
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Research on the determinants of consumer behavior toward food with safety certifications in Vietnam remains little. The primary objective of this study is to identify the factors affecting Vietnamese consumer intention to purchase safely certified vegetables (safe vegetables) based on an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 361 urban consumers in Hanoi city based on a stratified sampling technique, we applied structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the model.

Findings

The results revealed that the extended TPB succeeded to predict 62% of the variance of intention to purchase safe vegetables. Attitude played the most important role in consumer intention. Notably, the attitude of consumers was the most largely influenced by subjective norms (social effects). Also, subjective norms had a direct effect on intention. Furthermore, consumer trust motivated a favorable attitude to increase purchase intention. The effects of past behavior on intention were verified as direct and indirect through subjective norm and trust combined with attitude. Few socio-demographic variables (e.g. age and education) were found to affect intention indirectly through attitude and subjective norm.

Research limitations/implications

Further research on the relationship between intention and the actual purchase of safe food is needed.

Originality/value

This extends the application of the TPB to predict consumer intention to purchase safely certified food in a developing country like Vietnam by examining both direct and indirect effects of socio-demographic variables, trust and past behavior on intention.
Downregulation of NADPH‐cytochrome P450 reductase via RNA interference increases the susceptibility of Acyrthosiphon pisum to desiccation and insecticides
Authors: Qiao Jian‐Wen , Fan Yong‐Liang , Wu Bing‐Jin , Bai Tian‐Tian , Wang Ying‐Hao , Zhang Zhan‐Feng , Wang Dun , Liu Tong‐Xian
Published: November 2021

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)‐cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) is involved in the metabolism of endogenous and exogenous substances, and detoxification of insecticides. RNA interference (RNAi) of CPR in certain insects causes developmental defects and enhanced susceptibility to insecticides. However, the CPR of Acyrthosiphon pisum has not been characterized, and its function is still not understood. In this study, we investigated the biochemical functions of A. pisum CPR (ApCPR). ApCPR was found to be transcribed in all developmental stages and was abundant in the embryo stage, and in the gut, head, and abdominal cuticle. After optimizing the dose and silencing duration of RNAi for downregulating ApCPR, we found that ApCPR suppression resulted in a significant decrease in the production of cuticular and internal hydrocarbon contents, and of cuticular waxy coatings. Deficiency in cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) decreased the survival rate of A. pisum under desiccation stress and increased its susceptibility to contact insecticides. Moreover, desiccation stress induced a significant increase in ApCPR mRNA levels. We further confirmed that ApCPR participates in CHC production. These results indicate that ApCPR modulates CHC production, desiccation tolerance, and insecticide susceptibility in A. pisum, and presents a novel target for pest control.
Clearing the air on surgical plume
Authors: Watters David A. , Foran Paula , McKinley Sharryn , Campbell Graeme
Published: November 2021

Background

Surgical smoke or plume is produced by a variety of surgical coagulators and dissectors. A number of jurisdictions have recently introduced policies to reduce the associated occupational health risks including WorkSafe Victoria and New South Wales Health.

Method

This paper is a narrative review of potential risks, including any associated with COVID‐19, and options for mitigation.

Results

Surgical smoke or plume contains potentially toxic chemicals, some of which are carcinogens. Plume may also contain live virus, notably Human Papilloma and Hepatitis B, though any possible viral transmission is limited to a few case reports. Despite identifying COVID‐19 ribonucleic acid fragments in various body tissues and fluids there are no current reports of COVID‐19 transmission. Although plume is rapidly removed from the atmosphere in modern operating rooms, it is still inhaled by the operative team. Mitigation should include ensuring diathermy devices have evacuators while plume extraction should be standard for laparoscopic procedures. Consideration needs to be given to the potential to compromise the operating field of view, or the noise of the extractor impairing communication. There is an increasing range of suitable products on the market. The future includes pendant systems built into the operating room.

Conclusion

The potential risks associated with surgical plume cannot be ignored. Health services should invest in plume extraction devices with a view to protecting their staff. The conduct of the operation should not be compromised by the devices chosen. Future operating theatres need to be designed to minimize exposure to plume.
Coronary imaging of cardiac allograft vasculopathy predicts current and future deterioration of left ventricular function in patients with orthotopic heart transplantation
Authors: Reddy S Ashwin , Khialani Bharat V , Lambert Ben , Floré Vintcent , Brown Adam J , Pettit Steve J , West Nick EJ , Lewis Clive , Parameshwar Jayan , Bhagra Sai , Kydd Anna , Hoole Stephen P
Published: November 2021

Background

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) improve sensitivity of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) detection compared to invasive coronary angiography (ICA), but their ability to predict clinical events is unknown. We determined whether severe CAV detected with ICA, IVUS, or OCT correlates with graft function.

Methods

Comparison of specific vessel parameters between IVUS and OCT on 20 patients attending for angiography 12–24 months post‐orthotopic heart transplant. Serial left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) was recorded prospectively.

Results

Analyzing 55 coronary arteries, OCT and IVUS correlated well for vessel CAV characteristics. A mean intimal thickness (MIT)OCT > .25 mm had a sensitivity of 86.7% and specificity of 74.3% at detecting Stanford grade 4 CAV. Those with angiographically evident CAV had significant reduction in graft EF over 7.3 years follow‐up (median ΔEF ‐2% vs +1.5%, P = .03). Patients with MITOCT > .25 mm in at least one vessel had a lower median EF at time of surveillance (57% vs 62%, P = .014). Two MACEs were noted.

Conclusion

Imaging with OCT correlates well with IVUS for CAV detection. Combined angiography and OCT to screen for CAV within 12–24 months of transplant predicts concurrent and future deterioration in graft function.
Long‐term changes in paddy soil fertility in tropical Asia after 50 years of the Green Revolution
Authors: Yanai Junta , Tanaka Sota , Nakao Atsushi , Abe Susumu S. , Hirose Mina , Sakamoto Keita , Masai Fukiko , Saito Haruyoshi , Kajiwara Nao , Dejbhimon Ketsuda , Sriprachote Anongnat , Kanyawongha Porntiva , Lattirasuvan Thanakorn , Timbas Nicola , Medina Simplicio , Paing Tan Ngai , Yusoff Khairul Hafiz Mohd , Wakatsuki Toshiyuki , Kyuma Kazutake
Published: November 2021

Over 50 years of the Green Revolution since the 1960s, the global population has increased by 2.5 times, cereal production by 3.3 times and the use of N, P and K fertilisers by 9.4, 4.2 and 4.3 times, respectively. Information is still limited, however, on the influence of these impacts on the fertility status of agricultural soils. Here we investigated the influence of the Green Revolution on 142 paddy soils in three tropical Asian countries, that is, Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia, during the given period by repeated soil sampling in the 1960s and 2010s at or near the same locations. We revealed that the phytoavailablility indices of three macronutrients – N, P and K, that is, available P, exchangeable K and total N, showed 743% (p < 0.01), 12% and 1% increase on average, respectively, while total C showed 9% decline. Comprehensive investigation of overall fertility status by factor analysis using 11 soil parameters suggested that only the factor scores associated with ‘available P status’ increased drastically in all the three countries (p < 0.01) whereas those associated with ‘organic matter and N contents’ and ‘inherent potentiality’ did not exhibit any consistent changes among the countries. In conclusion, intensive soil/fertiliser management systems under the Green Revolution have successfully improved the nutrient status, especially P status, of paddy soils with slight decrease of soil organic matter over the last 50 years, while a large amount of nutrients applied, especially N and K, has been released from soil to the outer environments. Conversion to a high‐efficiency system of external nutrient inputs with organic matter‐conserving strategies is, therefore, urgently required to secure sustainable food production while restoring the environment during the coming decades.

Highlights

Paddy soils from 142 locations in three tropical Asian countries were repeatedly surveyed in the 1960s and 2010s.

Available P increased by 8.4 times, that of exchangeable K and total N showed 12% and 1% increase, while organic matter level showed 9% decline.

Factor analysis indicated significant increase of the factor scores for those associated with ‘available P status’.

A high‐efficiency system with organic matter‐conserving strategies is to be established for both sustainable food production and restoration of the environment.
Effects of exergaming on hippocampal volume and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor levels in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Schaeffer Eva , Roeben Benjamin , Granert Oliver , Hanert Annika , Liepelt‐Scarfone Inga , Leks Edyta , Otterbein Sascha , Saraykin Pavel , Busch Jan‐Hinrich , Synofzik Matthis , Stransky Elke , Bartsch Thorsten , Berg Daniela
Published: November 2021

Background and objective

Cognitive impairment is among the most burdensome non‐motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) and has been associated with hippocampal atrophy. Exercise has been reported to enhance neuroplasticity in the hippocampus in correlation with an improvement of cognitive function. We present data from the Training‐PD study, which was designed to evaluate effects of an “” training protocol on neuronal plasticity in PD.

Methods

We initiated a 6‐week exergaming training program, combining visually stimulating computer games with physical exercise in 17 PD patients and 18 matched healthy controls. Volumetric segmentation of hippocampal subfields on T1‐ and T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) serum levels were analyzed before and after the training protocol.

Results

The PD group showed a group‐dependent significant volume increase of the left hippocampal subfields CA1, CA4/dentate gyrus (DG) and subiculum after the 6‐week training protocol. The effect was most pronounced in the left DG of PD patients, who showed a significantly smaller percentage volume compared to healthy controls at baseline, but not at follow‐up. Both groups had a significant increase in serum BDNF levels after training.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that exergaming might be a suitable approach to induce hippocampal volume changes in PD patients. Further and larger studies are needed to verify our findings.
The ever‐expanding landscape of cancer therapeutic approaches
Authors: Watson Christine J.
Published: November 2021

Cancer is a leading cause of death and a major health problem worldwide, particularly in more developed countries. There is, therefore, an urgent clinical need to develop more effective therapies to treat cancer and metastatic disease. In this Editorial, the content of The FEBS Journal’s Special Issue on Cancer Therapeutics is outlined. The interesting collection of recent articles in this issue covers a wide repertoire of cancer therapeutic approaches. While some of the articles discuss broad‐spectrum applications such as immunotherapy and oncolytic virus therapy, others focus on a particular type of cancer or a signalling pathway that has gone awry such as aberrant Ca2+ signalling, glycosylation or pre‐mRNA processing. Finally, an article featured in this issue reviews our current understanding of how cancer cells can become dormant, often for decades, and which pathways reactivate these cells to cause relapse. I am sure there is something for everyone in this issue.
Hepatitis C virus in people with serious mental illness: an analysis of the care cascade at a tertiary health service with a pilot ‘identify and treat’ strategy
Authors: Braude Michael , Phan Timothy , Con Danny , Woolley Ian , Sundram Suresh , Clarke David , Dev Anouk , Sievert William
Published: November 2021

Background

People with serious mental illness (SMI) are underserved from a hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening and treatment perspective.

Aims

To examine the HCV care cascade in people with SMI and to pilot a supported HCV treatment integration programme.

Methods

HCV prevalence was retrospectively analysed from 4492 consecutive individuals admitted to a tertiary hospital mental health service between January 2017 and December 2018. Subcohort analysis of screening patterns and predictors of seropositive infection was performed. Referral pathways and community care integration were analysed for HCV‐positive individuals, and a prospective community‐based ‘identify and treat’ HCV programme was assessed.

Results

Screening for HCV had been performed in 18.6% (835/4492) of the cohort. Seroprevalence was 4.6% (207/4492). HCV seropositivity was associated with age >40 years (odds ratio (OR) = 9.30; confidence interval (CI) 3.69–23.45; P < 0.01), injecting drug use (OR = 24.26; CI 8.99–65.43; P < 0.01) and previous incarceration (OR = 12.26; CI 4.51–33.31; P < 0.01). In a cohort of treatment‐eligible individuals, 43.3% (90/208) had neither been referred to specialist services or general practitioners for HCV management. Amongst those referred to specialist services, 64.7% (57/88) did not attend scheduled follow up, and 48.3% (15/31) of attendees were lost to follow up. Through an intensified community access programme, 10 people were successfully treated for HCV, although 22 could not be engaged.

Conclusion

People with SMI are underserved by traditional models of HCV healthcare. Intensified community‐based support can partially bolster the treatment cascade, although investment in innovative screening and management strategies are required to achieve healthcare parity.
Long‐term decline in abundance of male sperm whales visiting Kaikōura, New Zealand
Authors: Somerford Tamlyn R. , Dawson Stephen M. , Slooten Elisabeth , Guerra Marta , Childerhouse Simon J. , Richter Christoph F. , van der Linde Miranda L. , Rayment William J.
Published: November 2021

Kaikōura, New Zealand, is one of the few places worldwide where sperm whales can be routinely found close to the coast. Although whales are present nearly all year round, no individuals are truly resident. In this study, we analyzed photo‐identification data collected over 27 years to investigate long‐term trends in inshore abundance. We contrasted two analytical approaches: Cormack‐Jolly‐Seber (CJS) mark‐recapture models, and the “Robust Design,” which can incorporate temporary emigration of individuals. CJS models for open populations showed a significant decline in the annual number of individual males, from 89, 95% CI [60, 133] in 1991, to 40, 95% CI [33–49] in 2017. The Robust Design models indicated that the trend was driven by a decline in abundance of whales using Kaikōura during summer, from 54, 95% CI [18, 156] in 1990, to 23, 95% CI [16, 33] in 2017. In contrast, there was no evidence for change in the numbers of whales using Kaikōura during winter. Incorporating temporary emigration had the most support, indicating Robust Design was more appropriate for estimating abundance. The results of Pradel recruitment models suggest that recruitment to the population using the study area during summer declined during the late 1990s/early 2000s, potentially explaining the decline in abundance.
Laboratory evidence that dinotefuran, pyriproxyfen and permethrin combination abrogates Leishmania infantum transmissibility by sick dogs
Authors: Bongiorno G. , Bosco A. , Bianchi R. , Rinaldi L. , Foglia Manzillo V. , Gizzarelli M. , Maurelli M. P. , Giaquinto D. , El Houda Ben Fayala N. , Varloud M. , Crippa A. , Oliva G. , Gradoni L. , Cringoli G.
Published: November 2021

Dogs are reservoir hosts of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum and transmitted by phlebotomine vectors. The effect of dinotefuran, pyriproxyfen and permethrin spot‐on solution (Vectra®3D, Ceva Santé Animale, Libourne, France) on Leishmania transmissibility by naturally infected dogs via reared Phlebotomus perniciosus, was assessed. Dogs affected by leishmaniasis were submitted to xenodiagnosis and 6 infecting >10% of insects were treated topically on day 0. Antifeeding, insecticidal and anti‐transmissibility effects were evaluated through xenodiagnoses performed on days 1, 7 and 28, using individual pre‐treatment parameters as control. Feeding and mortality rates were assessed at 24 h, whereas promastigote infection, maturation and burden were assessed up to 96 h post blood meal (potentially infectious rate). On day 1, the anti‐feeding efficacy was >95% in 4 dogs, insecticidal efficacy 100% in 4 dogs, and anti‐transmissibility effect 100% in 6 dogs. Efficacy rates recorded on day 7 were very similar to day 1. On day 28, anti‐feeding and insecticidal efficacy values were much broader, ranging 32.6–100% and 7.7–94.4%, respectively. Potentially infectious insects were recorded from two dogs, with sharp decrease in transmissibility rate as compared with pre‐treatment condition. Altogether, Vectra®3D abrogated by >98% the potential Leishmania transmissibility by the examined pool of infected dogs over 1 month.
Percutaneous transhepatic interventional therapy of portal vein stenosis in paediatric liver transplantation: A systematic review of efficacy and safety
Authors: Kyaw Lin , Lai Nai Ming , Iyer Shridhar Ganpati , Loh Dale Ser Kheng Lincoln , Loh Stanley Eu Kuang , Mali Vidyadhar Padmakar
Published: November 2021

Purpose of the systematic review

To determine the efficacy and safety of percutaneous trans‐hepatic balloon and/or stent angioplasty (PTA) in the management of portal vein (PV) stenosis following paediatric liver transplantation.

Methods

Articles were included from a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and International Clinical Trials Registry from inception to the 29th of August 2020.

Results

There were 213 paediatric liver recipients who underwent PTA for PV stenosis in 19 included studies published between 1991 and 2019. Balloon angioplasty was the initial treatment in the majority (n = 153). Primary stent placement (n = 34) was performed for elastic recoil, intimal tears and PV kinks and rescue stent placement (n = 14) for recurrent PV stenosis following primary balloon angioplasty. The technical success was 97.6%–100% overall, 97.6%–100% for balloon‐angioplasty‐only and 100% for primary stenting. The clinical success was 50%–100% overall, 50%–100% for balloon‐angioplasty‐only and 100% for primary stenting. Long‐term PV patency was 50%–100% overall, 37.5%–100% for balloon‐angioplasty‐only and 100% for primary stenting. Primary balloon angioplasty was successful in 78% of the cases. Of the recurrent PV stenoses, 9% resolved with stent placement and one required a meso‐Rex shunt. There was one re‐transplantation without stenting. The complication rate was 2.6% for balloon‐angioplasty‐only (bleeding, liver abscess, 2 PV thromboses) and 5.9% for primary stenting (bleeding, stent‐fracture). There was no procedure‐related mortality.

Conclusion

Percutaneous transhepatic balloon angioplasty may be the initial management of portal vein stenosis in paediatric liver recipients. Stent placement may be a primary option in selected cases and a reliable rescue option for recurrent portal vein stenosis following balloon‐angioplasty‐only.
Does President Trump's Outrageous Behavior Work?: Results from Two Randomized‐Controlled Trials
Authors: James Chandler
Published: November 2021

Politicians are increasingly relying on outrage to engage the public. President Donald Trump used outrage to fuel his unlikely 2016 presidential victory and 2020 reelection effort. Was Trump's outrageous behavior a boon to his political fortunes or political malpractice? I draw on research in political psychology, populism, and presidential appeals to examine President Trump's outrageous behavior and its effect on the public. Using a series of original experiments, I find support for my expectation that Trump's outrageous behavior is a politically advantageous public relations strategy. My results show that Trump's outrageous behavior increases his support among self‐identified Independents. However, contrary to popular conception, the results do not support claims that racial resentment or affinity for populism makes individuals more amenable to Trump's outrageous behavior.
The intelligence concept and racial classification as sociological products of Western education
Authors: Cook William S.
Published: November 2021

This article is a historical examination of how Western theorists created and utilized the intelligence concept and aligned it with racial classification to determine cognitive abilities. By the 1900s, Western theorists, without evidence, declared that intelligence exists as an inheritable, unchangeable mental condition. Influential Western theorists have exploited the intelligence concept to categorize the cognitive abilities of European descendants above that of non‐Whites, particularly African‐descended people as incessant deliberations emerged regarding the value of either cognitively superior or inferior racially defined groups. By interrelating geographical location with shared physical characteristics, Western theorists non‐scientifically divided the human family based on physical similarities among people and referred to them as races. These theorists incorporated the intelligence concept with racial classification as a sociological principle for educational development. According to the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, however, everyone has one or more forms of several intelligences. Although this theory appears to portray a different understanding from the original intelligence concept, it categorizes racial groups and individuals as having fixed levels of cognitive ability. Emphasizing intelligence as a descriptive factor to determine cognitive ability is an unscientific, unequitable characterization that has been employed to explain levels of social awareness and academic performance in Western education.
The first phylogeny of Australasian Lamiinae longhorn beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) reveals poor tribal classification and a complex biogeographic history
Authors: Ashman Lauren G. , Shin Seunggwan , Zwick Andreas , Ślipiński Adam , McKenna Duane D.
Published: November 2021

We used phylogenomic data and information from the beetle fossil record to reconstruct the phylogeny and historical biogeography of Australasian longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) in the subfamily Lamiinae. We further focused our study on the distribution of proposed diagnostic morphological characters in Lamiinae, and on the phylogeny of Rhytiphora Audinet‐Serville, Australia's most species‐rich genus of longhorn beetles. Lamiinae was monophyletic, but the majority of tribes were poly‐ or paraphyletic. Within Lamiinae, we recovered four main clades, including one clade mostly comprised of Australian endemic genera of probable Gondwanan origin. This clade also contained taxa that dispersed from Australia to New Zealand and experienced multiple independent instances of wing loss. Another of the four clades contained Australian genera that colonized the region from Asia, including Rhytiphora. The defining feature of Rhytiphora, the setose ‘sex patches’ on the male abdomen, was shared with many other Asian lamiine genera recovered in the same clade. Our results shed new light on the geographic and temporal origins of Australian Lamiinae, revealing an unexpected mixture of both ancient Gondwanan and recent Asian origins. Moreover, we confirmed rampant nonmonophyly at the tribal level among the Australasian genera of Lamiinae. Based on our results, we move 17 genera into Lamiinae incertae sedis and six genera into the tribe Ancitini Aurivillius. We also reinstate the tribe Niphonini Pascoe for part of the Asian‐Australian Pteropliini Thomson and synonymize Achriotypa Pascoe with Rhytiphora.
Postnatal hypoglycemia and blood glucose concentrations in neonatal tropical goat kids
Authors: Habibu Buhari , Umaru Kawu Mohammed , Aluwong Tagang , Joan Makun Hussaina
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the influences of breed, sex, litter size, and birth weight on the incidence of postnatal hypoglycemia and blood glucose concentrations in neonatal tropical goats. A total of 160 neonatal goat kids belonging to Red Sokoto (n = 98), Sahel (n = 40), and West African Dwarf (n = 22) breeds, were categorized after birth based on glycemic status, sex, litter size, and birth weights (high or low). Blood samples were collected on postnatal days 0, 1, 2, 3, 10, and 20 to determine blood glucose concentrations. Results revealed that the incidence of hypoglycemia at birth among neonatal goat kids was 22.5% (36/160) and was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the Sahel breed kids, twin kids, and kids born with low birth weights. After 24 hours, all hypoglycemic kids became normoglycemic but maintained lower (P < 0.05) blood glucose levels than those that were normoglycemic at birth, until day 10, when both groups had comparable blood glucose levels. In all groups, blood glucose concentrations increased significantly 24 hours postnatal, and kids with high birth weights had significantly higher values than those with low birth weights, while the buck kids had higher values than the doelings. There was a negative correlation (r = −0.31;P < 0.0003) between the blood glucose concentration of dams and those of their kids. In conclusion, the incidence of hypoglycemia in tropical goat kids was markedly influenced by breed, birth weight, and litter size. Furthermore, the hypoglycemic kids maintained lower blood glucose concentrations until day 10 postnatal, suggesting the need for relevant nutritional provisions for hypoglycemic kids during this critical period.
Structural competency curriculum in health sciences education: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gholar Victoria M. , Palokas Michelle , Christian Robin
Published: November 2021

Objective:

This scoping review aims to explore existing literature related to structural competency and how this concept is being implemented and evaluated in health sciences programs. The secondary aim is to examine and summarize any documented outcomes related to structural competency training.

Introduction:

Structural competency is a concept that was introduced in 2014 to train pre-health and health professionals to understand the broader structures that influence health outcomes. Studies have shown structural competency training is beneficial to health science students. To address health outcomes at the population level, students should collaborate with other disciplines to address the larger structures that influence health.

Inclusion criteria:

This scoping review will consider studies that include health science programs that implemented or evaluated structural competency training for undergraduate students, graduate students, and postgraduate trainees.

Methods:

The key databases to be searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, Europe PubMed Central, PsycINFO, and ERIC. The search for unpublished studies will include ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, PapersFirst, and OpenGrey. Studies conducted in English, in any year, setting, or geographical location will be included. Two independent reviewers will perform retrieval of full-text studies and data extraction. The results will be presented in diagrammatic or tabular format with a narrative summary.
Delirious mania in a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Haddad Peter M , Alabdulla Majid , Latoo Javed , Iqbal Yousaf
Published: November 2021

Delirious mania (the coexistence of delirium and mania) is described in the literature but not recognised in standard nosologies. We report a woman in her late 30s, with no psychiatric history, who presented with concurrent symptoms of mania and delirium. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia (positive reverse transcription-PCR test). There was no history of substance misuse or concurrent medical illness. CT head scan was normal as were blood investigations, other than elevated inflammatory markers. She received standard treatment for COVID-19 pneumonia and lorazepam and quetiapine to treat her neuropsychiatric symptoms. She made a full recovery after 9 days. She was apyrexial with normal oxygen saturation throughout her illness. The case shows that severe neuropsychiatric symptoms can complicate otherwise mild COVID-19 pneumonia with neuroinflammation being a possible mechanism. A diagnosis of delirious mania appears to better capture the complexity of the presentation than a diagnosis of mania or delirium alone.
Health workers’ perspectives on asthma care coordination between primary and specialised healthcare in the COVID-19 pandemic: a protocol for a qualitative study in Ecuador and Brazil
Authors: Romero Natalia Cristina , Cisneros-Caceres Maria Jose , Granadillo Emily , Aragao Erika , Romero-Sandoval Adriana , Barbosa Carolina , Barreto de Oliveira Ana Luiza , Rodriguez Alejandro , Pinheiro Gabriela Pimentel , Cruz Alvaro , Cooper Philip , Ferreira da Silva Maria Rejane
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Asthma is a common long-term disorder and strategies to improve asthma control are still a challenge. Integrated delivery of health systems is critical for effective asthma care: there is limited information on experiences of care coordination for asthma from Latin America, especially on perspectives of health personnel and in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods and analysis

This protocol details a qualitative approach to analyse health workers’ perspectives of healthcare coordination for asthma control during COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador and Brazil, at primary and specialised levels, through in-depth semistructured interviews using a video communications platform. The analysis will identify knowledge and perspectives based on coordination of clinical information, clinical management and administrative coordination. Theoretical sampling will be used to obtain approximately equal numbers of women and men within each level of healthcare; data saturation will be used to determine sample size. Transcripts will be analysed using content-coding procedures to mark quotations related to major topics and subthemes included in the interview guide, and narrative analysis will be based on a theoretical framework for healthcare coordination to identify new themes and subthemes.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the ethics committees of Hospital General Docente Calderón, Quito, Ecuador; and Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil. The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed articles, conference presentations and condensed summaries for key stakeholders and partners.
Outcomes reported in randomised controlled trials of major depressive disorder in older adults: protocol for a methodological review
Authors: Rodrigues Myanca , Sanger Nitika , Dufort Alexander , Sanger Stephanie , Panesar Balpreet , D"Elia Alessia , Parpia Sameer , Samaan Zainab , Thabane Lehana
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD or depression) is prevalent among adults aged 65 years and older. The effectiveness and safety of interventions used to treat depression is often assessed through randomised controlled trials (RCTs). However, heterogeneity in the selection, measurement and reporting of outcomes in RCTs renders comparisons between trial results, interpretability and generalisability of findings challenging. There is presently no core outcome set (COS) for use in RCTs that assess interventions for older adults with MDD. We will conduct a methodological review of the literature for outcomes reported in trials for adults 65 years and older with depression to assess the heterogeneity of outcome measures.

Methods and analysis

RCTs evaluating pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or any other treatment intervention for older adults with MDD published in the last 10 years will be located using electronic database searches (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). Reviewers will conduct title and abstract screening, full-text screening and data extraction of trials eligible for inclusion independently and in duplicate. Outcomes will be synthesised and mapped to core outcome-domain frameworks. We will summarise characteristics associated with trials and outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

We hope that findings from our methodological review will reduce variability in outcome selection, measurement and reporting and facilitate the development of a COS for older adults with MDD. Our review will also inform evidence synthesis efforts in identifying the best treatment practices for this clinical population. Ethics approval is not required, as this study is a literature review.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021244753.
A C1 virtual element method for an elliptic distributed optimal control problem with pointwise state constraints
Authors: Brenner Susanne C. , Sung Li-Yeng , Tan Zhiyu
Published: November 2021

We design and analyze a [Formula: see text] virtual element method for an elliptic distributed optimal control problem with pointwise state constraints. Theoretical estimates and corroborating numerical results are presented.
NONISOTHERMAL CRYSTALLIZATION KINETICS OF TERNARY SE60TE30S10 GLASS
Authors: KHALIFA ZAKI S. , ELSAYED SAMY A.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the composition Se[Formula: see text]Te[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text] has been prepared by the melt quenching technique. Morphology of the bulk material has been investigated by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Thermal analysis has been carried out for the powder obtained from the bulk ingot. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been recorded at different heating rates. Thermal stability and crystallization kinetics have been investigated for the obtained glass. A mixed alloy, an amorphous–crystalline matrix, shows a lower glass forming ability and a high value of fragility index. Crystallization parameters have been derived based on temperature and time and compared. The obtained values for the transition activation energies and the order of crystallization reaction show a considerable agreement.