bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sulfur formation system mediating extracellular cysteine‐cystine recycling in Fervidobacterium islandicum AW‐1 is associated with keratin degradation
Authors: Jin Hyeon‐Su , Dhanasingh Immanuel , Sung Jae‐Yoon , La Jae Won , Lee Yena , Lee Eun Mi , Kang Yujin , Lee Do Yup , Lee Sung Haeng , Lee Dong‐Woo
Published: December 2020

Most extremophilic anaerobes possess a sulfur formation (Suf) system for Fe–S cluster biogenesis. In addition to its essential role in redox chemistry and stress responses of Fe–S cluster proteins, the Suf system may play an important role in keratin degradation by Fervidobacterium islandicum AW‐1. Comparative genomics of the order Thermotogales revealed that the feather‐degrading F. islandicum AW‐1 has a complete Suf‐like machinery (SufCBDSU) that is highly expressed in cells grown on native feathers in the absence of elemental sulfur (S0). On the other hand, F. islandicum AW‐1 exhibited a significant retardation in the Suf system‐mediated keratin degradation in the presence of S0. Detailed differential expression analysis of sulfur assimilation machineries unveiled the mechanism by which an efficient sulfur delivery from persulfurated SufS to SufU is achieved during keratinolysis under sulfur starvation. Indeed, addition of SufS–SufU to cell extracts containing keratinolytic proteases accelerated keratin decomposition in vitro under reducing conditions. Remarkably, mass spectrometric analysis of extracellular and intracellular levels of amino acids suggested that redox homeostasis within cells coupled to extracellular cysteine and cystine recycling might be a prerequisite for keratinolysis. Taken together, these results suggest that the Suf‐like machinery including the SufS–SufU complex may contribute to sulfur availability for an extracellular reducing environment as well as intracellular redox homeostasis through cysteine released from keratin hydrolysate under starvation conditions.
Using Boosted Regression Tree Models to Predict Salinity in Mississippi Embayment Aquifers, Central United States
Authors: Knierim Katherine J. , Kingsbury James A. , Haugh Connor J. , Ransom Katherine M.
Published: December 2020

High salinity limits groundwater use in parts of the Mississippi embayment. Machine learning was used to create spatially continuous and three‐dimensional predictions of salinity across drinking‐water aquifers in the embayment. Boosted regression tree (BRT) models, a type of machine learning, were used to predict specific conductance (SC) and chloride (Cl), and total dissolved solids (TDS) was calculated from a correlation with SC. Explanatory variables for BRT models included well location and construction, surficial variables (e.g., soils and land use), and variables extracted from a groundwater‐flow model, including simulated groundwater ages. BRT model fits (r2) were 0.74 (SC and Cl) and 0.62 (TDS). BRT models provided spatially continuous salinity predictions across surficial and deeper aquifers where discrete water‐quality samples were missing. Uncertainty was smaller where salinity was lower, and models tended to underpredict in areas of highest salinity. Despite this, BRT models were able to capture areas of documented high salinity that exceed the TDS secondary maximum contaminant level for drinking water of 500 mg/L. Variables that served as surrogates for position along groundwater flowpaths were the most important predictors, indicating that much of the control on dissolved solids is related to rock‐water interaction as residence time increases. BRT models additionally support hypotheses of both surficial and deep sources of salinity.
Evolution of the Physical Phenotype of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders from Childhood through Adolescence
Authors: Jacobson Sandra W. , Hoyme H. Eugene , Carter R. Colin , Dodge Neil C. , Molteno Christopher D. , Meintjes Ernesta M. , Jacobson Joseph L.
Published: December 2020

Background

This paper reports findings from the first longitudinal study on the evolution of the physical phenotypes of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and partial FAS (PFAS) from early childhood through adolescence.

Methods

The sample consisted of 155 children (78 males and 77 females) born to women recruited at an antenatal clinic serving a Cape Coloured (mixed ancestry) population in Cape Town, South Africa. Two expert FASD dysmorphologists, blind regarding prenatal alcohol exposure, independently evaluated each child’s growth and dysmorphology at 4 clinics conducted over an 11‐year period. Case conferences were held to reach consensus regarding which children had FAS or PFAS growth and physical features using the Revised Institute of Medicine (2005) guidelines.

Results

The prevalence of the physical phenotype was stable across the 4 ages for about half of the children with FAS and about one‐third of those with PFAS but more variable for the others. Test–retest reliability was substantial for the FAS phenotype, but poorer for PFAS. Two distinct patterns were seen: a “strong phenotype” that was consistently identified and a less consistent one in which dysmorphic features and/or anthropometric deficits fluctuated or diminished with age. The physical phenotype was most apparent during early childhood and least apparent during puberty, due to differences in timing of the growth spurt and the evolving adult face. Short palpebral features and small head circumference diminished with age, flat philtrum fluctuated, while thin vermilion and weight and height restriction were stable.

Conclusions

Key facial features that characterize FASD in early childhood diminish or evolve in some individuals, making diagnostic examinations that rely on these characteristics most sensitive during early childhood and school age. Moreover, puberty poses classification problems due to variability in timing of the growth spurt. Given that several features and small head circumference diminished with age, many individuals would be misdiagnosed if only examined at a later age.
Testing management alternatives for controlling nest parasites in an endangered bird
Authors: Mather E. , Fogell D. J. , McCready M. , McInnes K. , Ewen J. G.
Published: December 2020

Haematophagous parasites can negatively impact breeding success and their control is often the target of management for threatened bird species. Mitigating parasitism can be difficult and certainly should only be done if parasite control is possible and if successful control improves host species fitness. Here, we use an experiment to test the effect of two alternative chemical methods ofOrnithonyssus bursamanagement in nests of a threatened host species, the New Zealand hihiNotiomystis cincta. We compared a reactive management alternative using Frontline®(active ingredient fipronil) to controlO. bursainfestations after detection to a preventative management alternative using Avian Insect Liquidator (AIL) spray (active ingredients piperonyl butoxide (PBO), permethrin and methoprene) before egg laying. We found that AIL‐treated nests were less likely to be parasitized and parasitism occurred later in nestling development if nests did become parasitized. We also found no difference in egg hatchability nor nestling condition between alternative management approaches but did find nest success was higher in preventative AIL‐treated nests. Our approach highlights the value of an experimental approach in assessing management alternatives in threatened species conservation and the host fitness benefits that can be achieved from control of costly parasitism.
Rodent assemblage composition as indicator of fire severity in a protected area of south‐central Chile
Authors: Zúñiga Alfredo H. , Rau Jaime R. , Jaksic Fabián M. , Vergara Pablo M. , Encina‐Montoya Francisco , Fuentes‐Ramírez Andrés
Published: December 2020

Fires have a considerable impact on biological communities and ecosystems, within which the assessment of burned habitats requires consideration of indicator species or assemblages useful for monitoring. The short‐term effects of fires can be easily deduced from analysing assemblages of animals with short generation times and high fertility rates, such as rodents. Here, we evaluated the effect of fire severity in a protected area of southern Chile on abundance, composition and diversity of rodent assemblages. We sampled rodents and vegetation variables during summer and fall over two years (2017 and 2018) in forest stands with different levels of fire severity (high, low and unburned stands). Changes in diversity and abundance were found between unburned and burned stands, with these differences being more noticeable during the fall of the first year. Abundances of rodent species exhibited marked fluctuations over the study period, but two species consistently decreased their abundances as fire severity increased, and with the absence of one species in burned stands. The adverse fire effects were less evident during the second year due to the overall low capture rates (1.3–1.9%). Rodent species were differently affected by fire, with Irenomys tarsalis (arboreal rat) being the species most sensitive to fires. The effect of fire severity on abundance of rodent species was associated with changes in the vegetation variables, where dead wood, canopy and herb cover showed a low correlation (R = 0.147). Our results suggest that fires of high severity cause important disturbances on habitat and food resources that result in short‐term effects on the rodent assemblage. Fires apparently act as an ecological filter for the more specialised species while offering an opportunity for the settlement of generalist species. Hence, the monitoring of rodent species differing in their ecological traits, such as food habits and space use, offers an opportunity for assessing the short‐term recovery patterns of wildlife after fire disturbances.
What are the perceptions of staff who work in, and professionals who advise on the design of, Australian aged care facilities on the value and use of handrails in corridors?
Authors: Swan Nicole , Watchorn Valerie , Grant Cathryn
Published: December 2020

Objective

To investigate the perceived value of handrails and how they are used in Australian aged care facilities (ACFs). Such information aims to contribute to the body of knowledge available about handrails, their design features and application.

Methods

This study adopted a descriptive cross‐sectional research design. Online surveys were distributed to members of Australian professional networks, collecting information about handrail use, mobility supports and handrail design in ACFs.

Results

There were 112 participants (80% female), aged 18‐55 years or older. Many identified that handrails in ACF corridors are used by a residents, staff and visitors, and that circular‐shaped handrails should be installed in ACF corridors to assist with mobility and safety.

Conclusion

Handrails in ACF corridors offer an alternate support to those who experience an unexpected loss of balance and those without or unable to use a mobility aid, ultimately enabling users’ mobility and assisting staff to carry out work duties.
Gastrointestinal parasites of blue monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis) and grey‐cheeked mangabeys (Lophocebus albigena) at the Ngogo Research Site in Kibale National Park, Uganda
Authors: Ochieng James Robert , Rwego Innocent B. , Kisakye John Joseph M. , Brown Michelle
Published: December 2020

There has been persistent decline in blue monkey (Cercopithecus mitis) population at Ngogo research site in the past 40 years for no clear reasons. In contrast, the populations of other nonhuman primates like the grey‐cheeked mangabeys (Lophocebus albigena) which share identical home ranges with blue monkeys have not been obviously affected. However, stakeholders attribute this decline to gastrointestinal parasitic diseases, hence the need to determine the profile of parasitic infections in blue monkeys and compare them to that of grey‐cheeked mangabeys within a shared home range. Faecal samples (n = 241) were subjected to diagnostic tests, namely sodium nitrate floatation and formol‐ether sedimentation before microscopic examination. 227 (94%) samples were parasite positive; six protozoa and 21 helminths were present. This implies that Ngogo hosts a high diversity of parasites which poses health risks to nonhuman primates. There was no significant statistical difference in the prevalence of the overall main pathogenic parasites between the two studied nonhuman primate species. Therefore, gastrointestinal parasites may not be the obvious cause of the proclaimed blue monkey population decline at Ngogo research site.
Detection of small for gestational age babies and perinatal outcomes following implementation of the Growth Assessment Protocol at a New Zealand tertiary facility: An observational intervention study
Authors: Cowan F. Joyce , McKinlay Christopher J. D. , Taylor Rennae S. , Wilson Jess , McAra‐Couper Judith , Garrett Nick , O’Brien Andrea , McCowan Lesley M. E.
Published: December 2020

Background

Timely detection of small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses is important for reducing severe perinatal morbidity and mortality, and better tools are needed to detect SGA in maternity care.

Aim

We evaluated the effect of the introduction of the Perinatal Institute’s Growth Assessment Protocol (GAP) in the Counties Manukau Health region, South Auckland, New Zealand, on antenatal detection of SGA and maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Uncontrolled before and after study in women booked under hospital community midwife care with a singleton, non‐anomalous pregnancy. Antenatal detection of SGA (birthweight <10th customised centile) was compared pre‐GAP (2012, N = 1105) and post‐GAP (2017, N = 1082). Composite adverse neonatal outcome was defined as neonatal unit admission >48 h, five‐minute Apgar score <7, and/or any ventilation. Analyses were adjusted for maternal age, body mass index, deprivation, smoking and ethnicity.

Results

SGA rates were similar across epochs (13.8% vs 12.9%) but antenatal detection of SGA increased from 22.9% (35/153) to 57.9% (81/140) post‐GAP (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.8, 95% CI 2.82–8.18). Rates of induction of labour and caesarean section increased between epochs but were similar in SGA, non‐SGA, and detected and non‐detected SGA subgroups. Among SGA babies, there was some evidence that antenatal detection of SGA may be associated with lower composite adverse neonatal outcome (detected SGA: aOR 0.44 95% CI 0.17–1.15; non‐detected SGA: aOR = 1.81 95% CI 0.73–4.48; interaction P = 0.03). Pre‐term birth did not appear to be influenced by GAP.

Conclusion

Implementation of GAP was associated with a nearly five‐fold increase in SGA detection without increasing obstetric intervention for SGA.
“We are here to stay” vs. “Europe’s best hotel”: Hamburg and Athens as Geographies of Solidarity
Authors: Fischer Leandros , Bak Jørgensen Martin
Published: December 2020

Using a theoretical framework conceptualising mobility regimes, solidarity, as well as scales and “sanctuary/solidarity cities”, this article examines notions of locally scaled solidarity by looking at Hamburg and Athens. We undertake comparisons on three dimensions. First, between the historical and institutional context of migration in Germany and Greece. Second, between urban movements in Hamburg and Athens. Finally, between the balance sheet of Seebrücke Hamburg and the Solidarity Cities Initiative of Athens. We contend that different migrant mobilities, as well as the solidarity movements they bring forth, structure different geographies of solidarity. We argue that movements in Hamburg were relatively more successful in renegotiating restrictive migration regimes on the local scale than their counterparts in Athens. We view these differences as prefigured by different types of migrant mobility—arrival in Hamburg, transit in Athens—in the context of a European bordering geography characterised by asymmetrical power relations.
Placental abruption in immigrant women in Norway: A population‐based study
Authors: Mæland Karolina S. , Morken Nils‐Halvdan , Schytt Erica , Aasheim Vigdis , Nilsen Roy M.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Placental abruption is a serious complication in pregnancy. Its incidence varies across countries, but the information of how placental abruption varies in immigrant populations is limited. The aims of this study were to estimate the incidence of placental abruption in immigrant women compared with non‐immigrants by maternal country and region of birth, reason for immigration, and length of residence.

Material and methods

We conducted a nationwide population‐based study using data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway and Statistics Norway (1990‐2016). The study sample included 1 558 174 pregnancies, in which immigrant women accounted for 245 887 pregnancies and 1 312 287 pregnancies were to non‐immigrants. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% CI for placental abruption in immigrant women compared with non‐immigrants were estimated by logistic regression with robust standard error estimations (accounting for within‐mother clustering). Adjustment variables included year of birth, maternal age, parity, multiple pregnancies, chronic hypertension, and level of education.

Results

The incidence of placental abruption decreased during the study period for both immigrants (from 0.68% to 0.44%) and non‐immigrants (from 0.80% to 0.34%). Immigrant women from sub‐Saharan Africa had an adjusted odds ratio of 1.35 (95% CI 1.15‐1.58) compared with non‐immigrants for placental abruption, whereas immigrant women from Ethiopia had an adjusted odds ratio of 2.39 (95% CI 1.67‐3.41). We found a small variation in placental abruption incidence by other countries or regions of birth, length of residence, and reason for immigration.

Conclusions

Immigrant women from sub‐Saharan Africa, especially Ethiopia, have increased odds for placental abruption when giving birth in Norway. Reason for immigration and length of residence had little impact on the incidence of placental abruption.
Une analyse socio‐économique de la trajectoire institutionnelle de l'entreprise sociale : le cas de la Corée du Sud
Authors: Bidet Eric , Eum Hyungsik
Published: December 2020

As a unique case in Asia, South Korea has developed for about 15 years a complex eco‐system for encouraging the promotion of various forms of social enterprises, i.e. enterprises pursuing a social aim and/or operating under a democratic governance. This paper analyses the institutional trajectory of social enterprise in Korea and its close relation with the concept of social economy. A socio‐economic analysis of this trajectory reveals that it is strongly driven by successive consensus towards socially useful organisational forms that remain first relatively unknown and local, and then tend to attract the attention of a growing number of stakeholders, including central and local governments, to eventually generate specific public schemes and laws. Through this analysis, one can understand how far an economic concept like social enterprise is the result of a social construct that depends on the involvement of the public side and the civil society and social movement. It also stresses how important is the decisive role played by relatively minor actors to generate a consensus between different stakeholders and disseminate thus social innovation to reshape public action and public/private forms of partnerships.
The effect of urban temperature gradients on grassland microclimate amelioration in Los Angeles, USA
Authors: English John , Wright Alexandra J.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Microclimate amelioration between neighboring plants may be more common in environments with greater abiotic stress. This pattern has been shown in deserts, alpine systems, and forests, but has not been explored along urban severity gradients. In this study we hypothesized that strong temperature gradients in the greater Los Angeles area might be driving changes in microclimate amelioration in annual grasslands.

Location

Twenty‐seven sites along a 100‐km latitudinal, 72‐km longitudinal urban gradient across the greater Los Angeles area in California, USA.

Methods

We measured macro‐ and microclimate variables during the 2019 growing season. We took measurements of temperature, humidity, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) at the site level as well as under grass canopies.

Results

We found strong cooling effects of the vegetation during the day and warming effects from vegetation at night. We found that these effects were strongest on the hottest/driest days and at the hottest (and often most urban) sites.

Conclusions

Our microclimate amelioration data suggest that positive interactions might become stronger along urban temperature gradients and may be determining plant interactions in these areas in a way that was not previously considered.
Plant communities, populations and individuals have distinct responses to short‐term warming and neighbour biomass removal in two montane grasslands
Authors: Britton Travis G. , Hovenden Mark J. , Porter Meagan , Flittner Anna , Brinkhoff Rose , Mayfield Margaret M.
Published: December 2020

Aims

Climate change will impact plant communities and populations but also individual plant performance. Most predictive models of community responses to climate change ignore individual‐level biotic interactions despite their known importance for community diversity and functioning. Here, we consider plant fitness and diversity responses to climate change associated factors at three organisational levels: communities, populations and individual plants, to increase our understanding of how plant communities respond to climate change.

Location

Montane grassland, Tasmania, Australia.

Methods

In two plant communities, we manipulated temperature using open‐top chambers and removed random and dominant species biomass. Two years after experimental manipulations, we assessed the impact of treatments on species diversity, community‐ and population‐level functional traits and individual plant fitness.

Results

Species diversity was affected by warming in one of the two communities, while community‐level functional trait diversity metrics were unaffected by treatments. Mean community trait values were strongly impacted by dominant species biomass removal in both communities, notably increasing specific leaf area (SLA) and specific root length. SLA showed the strongest population‐level trait response, with higher values found in warmed plots and lower values found in dominant species biomass removal plots. Neighbours had a stronger competitive effect on individual plant fitness in warmed compared to unwarmed conditions at the higher‐elevation site and facilitation was common in both communities.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that over short time scales, plant communities respond to experimental warming and biomass removal across multiple organisational levels. Competitive and facilitative interactions played a significant role in determining fitness outcomes, but competitive interactions dominated under warmed conditions. We highlight the importance of local‐scale biotic interactions in mediating individual responses to warming and recommend their inclusion in future studies of how climate change will impact the long‐term structure and function of plant communities through short‐term impacts on individual plant fitness.
Ruxolitinib reverses checkpoint inhibition by reducing programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) expression and increases anti‐tumour effects of T cells in multiple myeloma
Authors: Chen Haiming , Li Mingjie , Ng Nicole , Yu Erin , Bujarski Sean , Yin Zhengyi , Wen Mingxiang , Hekmati Tara , Field Dylan , Wang Jasper , Nassir Isabella , Yu Janna , Huang Justin , Daniely David , Wang Cathy S. , Xu Ning , Spektor Tanya M. , Berenson James R.
Published: December 2020

Multiple myeloma (MM) tumour cells evade host immunity through a variety of mechanisms, which may potentially include the programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1):programmed cell death protein‐1 (PD‐1) axis. This interaction contributes to the immunosuppressive bone marrow (BM) microenvironment, ultimately leading to reduced effector cell function. PD‐L1 is overexpressed in MMBM and is associated with the resistance to immune‐based approaches for treating MM. Ruxolitinib (RUX), an inhibitor of the Janus kinase (JAK) family of protein tyrosine kinases, is approved for myeloproliferative diseases. We investigated the effects of RUX alone or in combination with anti‐MM agents on the expression of PD‐L1 and T‐cell cytotoxicity in MM. We showed that the expression of the PD‐L1 gene was markedly increased in BM mononuclear cells from patients with MM with progressive disease versus those in complete remission. Furthermore, RUX treatment resulted in a concentration‐dependent reduction of PD‐L1 gene expression in the MM tumour cells cultured alone or co‐cultured with stromal cells compared with untreated cells. The results also demonstrated that RUX increased MM cell apoptosis in the presence of interleukin‐2‐stimulated T cells to a similar degree as the treatment with anti‐PD‐1 or anti‐PD‐L1 antibodies. In summary, these results indicate that RUX can block PD‐L1 expression resulting in augmentation of anti‐MM effects of T cells.
When more is more: taking advantage of species diversity to move towards sustainable aquaculture
Authors: Thomas Marielle , Pasquet Alain , Aubin Joël , Nahon Sarah , Lecocq Thomas
Published: December 2020

Human population growth has increased demand for food products, which is expected to double in coming decades. Until recently, this demand has been met by expanding agricultural area and intensifying agrochemical‐based monoculture of a few species. However, this development pathway has been criticised due to its negative impacts on the environment and other human activities. Therefore, new production practices are needed to meet human food requirements sustainably in the future. Herein, we assert that polyculture practices can ensure the transition of aquaculture towards sustainable development. We review traditional and recent polyculture practices (ponds, recirculated aquaculture systems, integrated multi‐trophic aquaculture, aquaponics, integrated agriculture–aquaculture) to highlight how they improve aquaculture through the coexistence and interactions of species. This overview highlights the importance of species compatibility (i.e. species that can live in the same farming environment without detrimental interactions) and complementarity (i.e. complementary use of available resources and/or commensalism/mutualism) to achieve efficient and ethical aquaculture. Overall, polyculture combines aspects of productivity, environmental protection, resource sharing, and animal welfare. However, several challenges must be addressed to facilitate polyculture development across the world. We developed a four‐step conceptual framework for designing innovative polyculture systems. This framework highlights the importance of (i) using prospective approaches to consider which species to combine, (ii) performing integrated assessment of rearing environments to determine in which farming system a particular combination of species is the most relevant, (iii) developing new tools and strategies to facilitate polyculture system management, and (iv) implementing polyculture innovation for relevant stakeholders involved in aquaculture transitions.
Applying Interdisciplinary Frameworks to Study Prenatal Influences on Child Development
Authors: Camerota Marie , Willoughby Michael T.
Published: December 2020

Modern developmental science is informed by several shared principles and adopts a lifespan approach that goes from infancy to senescence. Increasingly, disciplines outside psychology are adopting research frameworks (e.g., fetal origins, developmental origins of health and disease, first 1000 days) that prioritize prenatal experience as a driver of children's long‐term health and developmental outcomes. Despite originating in medical literatures, these new frameworks share many of the core tenets of modern developmental theories. However, they also raise new questions and provoke a broader consideration of developmental influences, outcomes, and contexts. In this article, we describe these frameworks and consider how they align with, differ from, and inform modern developmental science.
Access to oral health care for undocumented migrants: Perspectives of actors involved in a voluntary dental network in the Netherlands
Authors: van Midde Myrthe , Hesse Iris , van der Heijden Geert JMG , Duijster Denise , van Elteren Marianne , Kroesen Margreet , Agyemang Charles , Beune Erik
Published: December 2020

Objective

Undocumented migrants in Europe face multiple barriers in access to oral health care. This study aimed to explore the accessibility of a voluntary dental network providing dental treatments to undocumented migrants in the Netherlands, from the perspectives of patients, dentists and staff members of nongovernmental organizations involved.

Methods

This qualitative study used semi‐structured interviews (n = 21) with undocumented migrants (n = 12), dentists (n = 7) and staff members of nongovernmental organizations (n = 2) during the implementation of a voluntary dental network. Interviews were analysed using a framework analysis method.

Results

As a temporary answer to problems in access to oral health for undocumented migrants, the voluntary dental network targeted initial barriers to dental care. Main challenges within the network were conflicting expectations and perceived treatment outcomes by patients, dentist and NGO staff members, limited financial resources, logistic and communication barriers and an increasing administrative burden. Furthermore, feelings of compassion for and trust of the patient affected the ethics of the professional relationship and influenced treatment decisions of dentists.

Conclusion

Through the implementation of a voluntary dental network, treatments could be provided to undocumented migrants as a temporary solution. However, the voluntary nature of dental care in the network resulted in a fragmented provision of oral health care among undocumented migrants. To reduce inequalities in oral health on the long term, systemic barriers in access to oral health care need to be addressed.
Evaluation of narrow band imaging for diagnosis of unilateral nasal lesions
Authors: Fan Dachuan , Hou Jinxiao , Zhang Tianhong , Ye Yijing
Published: December 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effect of narrow band imaging (NBI) examination on differentiating diagnosis between benign and malignant neoplasms involving nasal cavity.

Design, Setting, Participants

A retrospective study was conducted to analyse cases from January 2018 to December 2019 at a single centre. A total of 188 consecutive patients who were newly diagnosed with lesions in unilateral nasal cavity underwent complete examination with white light endoscopy (WLE) and NBI endoscopy. Biopsy specimens were harvested from the target lesions and sent to the pathologist for definite diagnosis. Participants with a history of congenital malformation, trauma and surgery in nasal cavity were excluded from the study.

Main outcome measures

Endoscopic diagnosis was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV, respectively).

Results

In identifying benign and malignant lesions of nasal cavity, NBI had a significant higher sensitivity (92.7% vs 70.7%, P = .020) and NPV (98% vs 92.3%, P = .032) than WLE, but there were no significant differences between NBI and WLE in specificity (98.6% vs 97.3%, P = .684), accuracy (97.3% vs 91.5%, P = .416) and PPV (95% vs 87.9%, P = .400).

Conclusion

NBI as an emerging technique can improve the diagnostic accuracy by distinguishing benign and malignant lesions in nasal cavity and remains a promising and helpful adjunct to the endoscopy techniques.
Prognostic value of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune‐inflammation index in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Zhilin , Qu Yi , Yang Yang , An Wei , Li Shaoqing , Wang Bin , He Ying , Li Jing , Shao Qi , Qin Lizheng
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We aimed to determine the prognostic value of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Design and setting

A retrospective analysis of patients with LSCC was conducted in our hospitals. Clinical information, including age, sex, TNM classification and other demographic and clinical data, was acquired and analysed. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated and compared using the Kaplan‐Meier method and log‐rank test.

Participants

A total of 147 patients with LSCC were included.

Results

According to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the optimal cut‐off points for NLR, PLR and SII were 1.88, 117.36 and 517.64. The analysis revealed NLR, PLR and SII to be independent predictors for OS and PFS (P < .05).

Conclusions

Preoperative NLR, PLR and SII are promising prognostic predictors for patients with LSCC.
Outcomes of kidney donors with pre‐ and post‐donation kidney stones
Authors: Murad Dina N. , Nguyen Hana , Hebert Sean A. , Nguyen Duc T. , Graviss Edward A. , Adrogue Horacio E. , Ibrahim Hassan N.
Published: December 2020

Roughly 25% of US transplant centers exclude donor candidates with kidney stones fearing future obstructive consequences and the possible association between stones and CKD. We compared the development of hypertension, proteinuria, and reduced eGFR in 227 kidney donors with kidney stones to 908 propensity score‐matched donor controls without kidney stones using data from The Renal and Lung Donor Evaluation (RELIVE) Study which studied intermediate and long‐term outcomes of 8922 donors who donated between 1963 and 2007. 200 donors had kidney stones prior to donation, 21 had post‐donation stones, and 6 had pre‐ and post‐donation stones. Donors with stones were older, more likely to be Caucasian, less likely to be related to the recipient and had a higher fasting glucose. After 16.5 ± 10.9 years (range 0–44 years) from donation to study close, no ESKD occurred in donors with stones. The multivariable risks of hypertension, proteinuria, and reduced GFR were similar in donors with and without kidney stones. We could not demonstrate an association between stones and adverse renal outcomes in kidney donors, and the occurrence of post‐donation stones was distinctly rare. These data may provide a rationale for possibly a wider acceptance of donor candidates with low kidney stones burden.
Saethre–Chotzen syndrome: long‐term outcome of a syndrome‐specific management protocol
Authors: Den Ottelander Bianca K , Van Veelen Marie‐Lise C , De Goederen Robbin , Van De Beeten Stephanie DC , Dremmen Marjolein HG , Loudon Sjoukje E , Versnel Sarah L , Van Den Ouweland Ans MW , Van Dooren Marieke F , Joosten Koen FM , Mathijssen Irene MJ
Published: December 2020

Aim

To assess the long‐term outcomes of our management protocol for Saethre–Chotzen syndrome, which includes one‐stage fronto‐orbital advancement.

Method

All patients born with Saethre–Chotzen syndrome between January 1992 and March 2017 were included. Evaluated parameters included occipital frontal head circumference (OFC), fundoscopy, neuroimaging (ventricular size, tonsillar position, and the presence of collaterals/an abnormal transverse sinus), polysomnography, and ophthalmological outcomes. The relationship between papilledema and its associated risk factors was evaluated with Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Thirty‐two patients (21 females, 11 males) were included. Median (SD) age at first surgery was 9.6 months (3.1mo) for patients who were primarily referred to our center (range: 3.6–13.0mo), the median (SD) age at last follow‐up was 13 years (5y 7mo; range: 3–25y). Seven patients had papilledema preoperatively, which recurred in two. Two patients had papilledema solely after first surgery. Second cranial vault expansion was indicated in 20%. Thirteen patients had an OFC deflection, indicating restricted skull growth, one patient had ventriculomegaly, and none developed hydrocephalus. Eleven patients had emissary veins, while the transverse sinus was aberrant unilaterally in 13 (hypoplastic n=10 and absent n=3). Four patients had mild tonsillar descent, one of which was a Chiari type I malformation. Four patients had obstructive sleep apnoea (two mild, one moderate, and one severe). An aberrant transverse sinus was associated with papilledema (p=0.01).

Interpretation

Single one‐stage fronto‐orbital advancement was sufficient to prevent intracranial hypertension for 80% of our patients with Saethre–Chotzen syndrome. Follow‐up should focus on OFC deflection and venous anomalies.
The effects of diabetes self‐management interventions on physiological outcomes in people living with diabetes in Africa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Diriba Dereje Chala , Leung Doris Y.P. , Suen Lorna K.P.
Published: December 2020

Aim

To examine the effects of diabetes self‐management interventions on physiological outcomes among people living with diabetes in Africa compared with patients receiving usual care.

Methods

Relevant databases including PubMed, CINAHL Complete, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched from inception to 28 September 2019, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults living with diabetes in Africa. Nine RCTs were included in the review, and the quality of the studies was assessed using Cochrane's collaboration risk of bias tools.

Results

A meta‐analysis of the outcomes showed the significant effects of diabetes self‐management interventions on blood pressure, total cholesterol and body mass index, whereas non‐significant and inconclusive results were obtained for waist circumference and glycosylated haemoglobin, respectively.

Conclusions

The diabetes self‐management interventions (DSM) effectively improved many physiological outcomes, but their effectiveness in HbA1c was inconclusive, suggesting a need for modifications in DSM interventions for African people living with diabetes.
COVID‐19’s impacts on global value chains, as seen in the apparel industry
Authors: Castañeda‐Navarrete Jennifer , Hauge Jostein , López‐Gómez Carlos
Published: December 2020

Motivation

The COVID‐19 pandemic has massively disrupted international trade and global value chains. Impacts, however, differ across regions and industries. This article contributes to a better understanding of the scale of disruptions to industries and value chains integral to the economies of and livelihoods in developing countries, and what role policy can play to mitigate harm.

Purpose

This article aims to: (1) analyse and characterize disruptions to the global apparel value chain caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic, focusing on how developing countries have been impacted, and; (2) identify key policies to support a resilient, inclusive and sustainable recovery.

Approach and methods

We review COVID‐19 related reports published by international and non‐governmental organizations, international trade and production statistics, industry surveys and media reports. We frame our analysis predominantly within the Global Value Chains literature.

Findings

The global apparel value chain has been severely disrupted by the pandemic, owing to direct effects of sickness on workers in factories, reduced output of materials—cloth, thread, etc.—used to fabricate clothing, and to reduced demand for apparel in high‐income countries. Developing countries are suffering disproportionately in terms of profits, wages, job security and job safety. Women workers in the apparel chain have been hit especially hard, not only because most workers in the chain are women, but also because they have experienced increasing unpaid care work and higher risk of gender‐based violence.

Policy implications

Five key areas of policy to support a resilient, inclusive and sustainable recovery stand out: (1) delivering emergency responses to ensure firm survival and the protection of workers’ livelihoods; (2) reformulating FDI attraction strategies and promoting market diversification; (3) supporting technology adoption and skills development; (4) deploying labour standards to improve workers’ conditions and strengthening social protection systems; and (5) adopting gender‐sensitive responses.
Aid instability, aid effectiveness and economic growth
Authors: Liu Qiaoqiao , Li Zenggang
Published: December 2020

Motivation

Despite large flows of official development assistance, the performance of recipient economies has been discouraging. Aid effectiveness, including the effect of instability of aid flows, has thus become a central concern.

Purpose

This article assesses the effect of unstable aid flows on aid effectiveness and economic growth.

Approach and Methods

We divide the aid effect into two stages: without‐aid and with‐aid. The impact of aid volatility is determined by the direction of volatility, the paths of aid and the incidence of its impact on the economy. The generalized method of moments (GMM) is applied to the panel data of 78 aid recipients from 2003 to 2017.

Findings

An open economy magnifies the impact of aid fluctuations (both positive and negative) for recipients highly dependent on aid. No statistically significant influence of aid volatility on growth can be seen. Volatility may however matter, since positive and negative impacts may offset each other. Aid unpredictability weakens aid efficiency and thus cripples growth.

Policy Implications

Donor agencies should make their assistance more predictable, above all in countries that depend heavily on aid.
L‐homoarginine is associated with decreased cardiovascular‐ and all‐cause mortality
Authors: Mokhaneli Maserame Cleopatra , Botha‐Le Roux Shani , Fourie Carla Maria Theresia , Böger Rainer , Schwedhelm Edzard , Mels Catharina Martha Cornelia
Published: December 2020

Background

Increasing evidence suggests that L‐homoarginine, an endogenous analogue of the amino acid L‐arginine, may have beneficial effects on vascular homeostasis. We examined whether L‐homoarginine is associated with 10‐year risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in a black South African population.

Methods

We included 669 black South African participants (mean age 59.5 years), 143 of whom died during the 10‐year follow‐up period. Mortality data were acquired via verbal autopsy. Plasma L‐homoarginine (and other related markers) were analysed with liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Survivors had higher L‐homoarginine levels compared with nonsurvivors (1.25 µM vs. 0.89 µM; P < .001). Multivariable Cox regression analyses revealed that higher plasma L‐homoarginine predicted a reduction in 10‐year cardiovascular (hazard ratio [HR] per SD increment, 0.61; 95% CI 0.50 to 0.75) and all‐cause (hazard ratio [HR] per SD increment, 0.59; 95% CI 0.41 to 0.84) mortality risk.

Conclusion

Higher L‐homoarginine levels are associated with reduced risk of 10‐year cardiovascular and all‐cause mortality. Regulation of L‐homoarginine levels as a therapeutic target in the management of cardiovascular disease should be investigated.
Combination of brentuximab‐vedotin and ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide in relapsed/refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Van de Wyngaert Zoé , Coppo Paul , Cervera Pascale , Fabiani Bettina , Lemonnier Marie‐Paule , Corre Elise , Marjanovic Zora , Aoudjhane Malek , Mohty Mohamad , Duléry Rémy
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Relapsed/refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphomas (PTCL) have a poor prognosis. We aimed at assessing efficacy of ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide (ICE) regimen, a known therapeutic option, to which we added brentuximab‐vedotin (BV).

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed patients with PTCL treated with BV‐ICE in our center between July 2014 and March 2018.

Results

Fourteen patients received BV‐ICE. Median age was 62 years (range, 31‐73). Main histological subtypes were PTCL‐not otherwise specified (29%), angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (21%), follicular‐T helper (21%), or anaplastic large‐cell (15%) lymphomas, all were CD30 positive. Overall response was seen in four (29%) patients, and complete response (CR) in two (14%). Most frequent adverse events were infections, and cytopenia. 2‐year progression‐free and overall survival were 14% and 17.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

Patients with relapsed/refractory PTCL treated with BV‐ICE can achieve CR, but few had a sustained response. This association should preferably be used as a bridge to stem cell transplant or be followed by maintenance therapy.
Blinatumomab in pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Queudeville Manon , Schlegel Patrick , Heinz Amadeus T. , Lenz Teresa , Döring Michaela , Holzer Ursula , Hartmann Ulrike , Kreyenberg Hermann , von Stackelberg Arend , Schrappe Martin , Zugmaier Gerhard , Feuchtinger Tobias , Lang Peter , Handgretinger Rupert , Ebinger Martin
Published: December 2020

Objective

Pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia have a poor prognosis. We here assess the response rates, adverse events, and long‐term follow‐up of pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving blinatumomab.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a single‐center experience with blinatumomab in 38 patients over a period of 10 years.

Results

The median age at onset of therapy was 10 years (1‐21 years). Seventy‐one percent of patients had undergone at least one hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) prior to treatment with blinatumomab. We observed a response to blinatumomab in 13/38 patients (34%).

The predominant side effect was febrile reactions, nearly half of the patients developed a cytokine release syndrome. Eight events of neurotoxicity were registered over the 78 cycles (15%). To date, nine patients (24%) are alive and in complete molecular remission. All survivors underwent haploidentical HSCT after treatment with blinatumomab.

Conclusions

Despite heavy pretreatment of most of our patients, severe adverse events were rare and response rates encouraging. Blinatumomab is a valuable bridging salvage therapy for relapsed or refractory patients to a second or even third HSCT.
Allostatic gene regulation of inhibitory synaptic factors in the rat ventral hippocampus in a juvenile/adult stress model of psychopathology
Authors: Albrecht Anne , Segal Menahem , Stork Oliver
Published: December 2020

Early life stress is an important vulnerability factor for the development of anxiety disorders, depression and late‐onset cognitive decline. Recently, we demonstrated that juvenile stress (JS) lastingly enhanced long‐term potentiation via reduction of steady‐state glutamine synthetase mRNA expression and the associated dysregulation of the astrocytic glutamate‐glutamine cycle in the rat ventral CA1. We now investigated the regulation of steady‐state mRNA expression of neuronal gene products that determine GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission in layers of the ventral and dorsal CA1 after JS. We further studied their interaction with stress in young adult age (AS) to address their putative role in psychopathology development. Strikingly, mRNA levels of the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) isoforms GAD65 and of the GABA‐A receptor α2 (Gabra2) were increased after single JS or AS, but not after combined JS/AS stress experience. In fact, JS/AS resulted in layer‐specific reduction of Gabra2 and also of Gabra1 mRNA levels in the ventral CA1. Furthermore, GAD65 and Gabra2 mRNAs were correlated with glutamatergic AMPA and NMDA receptor subunit mRNAs after single JS and AS, but not after combined JS/AS. Together, these data indicate a loss of allostatic regulation of steady‐state mRNA levels of key GABAergic components that may result in a dysregulation of excitation/ inhibition balance in the ventral CA1 upon dual stress exposure. Finally, individual differences in local glucocorticoid receptor mRNA expression may contribute to this regulation.