bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Longevity of Small Family Businesses in Historical Narratives of Their Members
Authors: Vier Machado Hilka Pelizza , Ros Douglas
Published: July 2020

Objetivo do estudo: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi compreender a longevidade de pequenas empresas familiares a partir de memórias de seus integrantes.Metodologia/abordagem: O método foi o de narrativas históricas e a coleta de dados ocorreu por meio de entrevistas do tipo narrativas. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram, para cada uma das empresas, um dos fundadores, um sucessor e o funcionário mais antigo. Os dados foram analisados de acordo com a análise estrutural.Originalidade/Relevância: A pesquisa mostrou a trajetória de pequenas empresas longevas com foco diferente de abordagens lineares predominantes no estudo da temática.Principais resultados: Os resultados apontaram diferentes trajetórias de pequenas empresas familiares longevas. No primeiro caso, foram identificados três momentos de mudança, que resultaram em crescimento, declínio e continuidade. No segundo caso, foram observados dois momentos: o de consolidação e o de crescimento. Os resultados mostraram ainda a importância da sucessão familiar para empresas longevas.Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: A utilização de narrativas históricas e da história oral no estudo de pequenas empresas longevas representa uma contribuição desta pesquisa, evidenciando aspectos associados à longevidade em pequenas empresas familiares, como a relevância da sucessão. No campo de pequenas empresas, o estudo mostrou que longevidade não é diferente de crescimento e que diferentes trajetórias podem configurar a longevidade.
Stakeholder Disclosure in Reference Forms - An Analysis of the Focus of Healthcare Companies on Reporting Their Risk
Authors: Lugoboni Leonardo Fabris , Salgado Beatriz Simonetti Fraga , Murcia Flávia Cruz de Souza
Published: July 2020

Objetivo do estudo: Este estudo teve como objetivo examinar a evidenciação sobre stakeholders nas análises de risco das empresas do setor de saúde atuantes no Brasil. Metodologia/abordagem: Foram examinados os Formulários de Referência publicados entre os anos 2013 e 2017 de 13 empresas do setor de saúde listadas na bolsa de valo   res brasileira, a B3. Utilizou-se análise de conteúdo para evidenciar os stakeholders presentes nos formulários de referência. Originalidade/Relevância: Apesar da gestão de riscos e a gestão de stakeholders já terem uma literatura abundante, esta pesquisa trás evidências empíricas de como os formulários de referência das empresas do setor da saúde evidenciam seus stakeholders. Até o momento, não foi possível identificar trabalhos que discutem esse tema tanto na literatura brasileira como na literatura internacional. Principais resultados: Os resultados constataram que os stakeholders mais citados, como esperado, foram os Clientes (apareceram em 98% dos formulários), Funcionários e Concorrentes (cada um em 95% dos documentos analisados). Por outro lado, os menos mencionados foram Parceiros (68%), Mídia (65%) e Comunidade (37%). Por fim, o resultado mais relevante diz respeito à quantidade absoluta de menções aos stakeholders listados. Os Clientes foram citados 867 vezes, os Investidores em 851 oportunidades e os Funcionários em 811 ocasiões. Os stakeholders menos citados foram Mídia, com 106 alusões, e Comunidade, com 53 menções. Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: Pode-se concluir que, no que se refere à gestão do risco, as organizações dedicam grande atenção aos stakeholders Clientes, Funcionários e Concorrentes, pois estes são bastante mencionados nos documentos analisados.
Model of Maturity and Audit of Innovation Management in Micro, Small And Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil
Authors: Mafra Pereira Frederico Cesar , Jordão Ricardo Vinícius Dias , Matos Nancy Rosa , Almeida Aulus Vinícius de
Published: July 2020

Objetivo do estudo: Analisar o grau de gestão da inovação e propor modelo de maturidade para SMEs brasileiras. Metodologia/abordagem: Estudo comparativo de casos de abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa, descritiva e aplicada, para SMEs brasileiras; utilizados os métodos dedutivo e indutivo e a triangulação de dados para análise e proposição do modelo. Originalidade/Relevância: Desafio de se compreender, em profundidade, os fatores críticos e os relacionamentos entre a inovação, o desempenho e a competitividade das SMEs, importantes para sua sobrevivência, crescimento e desenvolvimento, especialmente em economias emergentes como a brasileira. Principais resultados: (i) a despeito das dificuldades práticas de gestão da inovação e da ausência de uma estratégia formal em algumas SMEs para incentivar e suportar os processos inovativos, essas se relacionam direta e indiretamente com o desempenho e a competitividade dessas empresas; (ii) o grau de maturidade da inovação é i           nfluenciado pelas características das SMEs e de seus gestores, e a auditoria e a gestão da inovação ampliam a sua capacidade de sobrevivência, crescimento e desenvolvimento empresarial. Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: (i) teóricas, ao colaborar para preencher a lacuna supramencionada e ampliar o conhecimento sobre o tema no âmbito das SMEs; (ii) aplicadas, ao propor um framework específico para auditoria e aferição do grau de maturidade da inovação em SMEs, a partir de referencial validado pela literatura internacional. Contribuições sociais / para a gestão: O modelo proposto traz contribuições gerenciais por refinar a práxis das SMEs quanto à gestão da inovação, oferecendo a empresas em situações similares uma oportunidade de benchmarking competitivo.
Central sensitization in chronic lumbar spine pain – pathophysiology and diagnostics
Authors: Kosińska Barabara , Turczyn Paweł , Wesołowski Krzysztof , Tarnacka Beata , Malec-Milewska Małgorzata
Published: July 2020

Chronic low back pain is a substantial clinical problem because of its high prevalence, incidence, complex and heterogeneous symptomatology. The majority of patients experience nociceptive pain only, but in almost 40% of patients neuropathic component may be present. In many patients with low back pain symptoms associated with central sensitization may be present as well and therefore their pain can be classified as nocyplastic. (functional) This paper describes how clinicians can differentiate these types of pain, taking into account that in a given patient several mechanisms may contribute to chronic pain development, and pain results from complex mechanisms. In the second part, therapeutic options are presented for people with symptoms of central sensitization, with emphasis on non-pharmacological methods.
Cámaras de comercio: una nueva gestión. El enfoque del Cuadro de Mando Integral en las Cámaras Españolas
Authors: Foncubierta-Rodríguez María-José , Galiana-Tonda Francisca , Galiana Rubia María del Mar
Published: July 2020

Las Cámaras de Comercio, una de las organizaciones empresariales multisectoriales más extendidas en el mundo, se caracterizan por tres condiciones que las diferencian de otras agrupaciones empresariales: no tienen fines de lucro, comprenden diversos sectores dentro de un territorio específico, y son autogestionadas. En el presente trabajo, después de tratar sobre qué tipo de entidad es una Cámara, la evolución en su organización, y la utilidad de su labor para la sociedad y la economía españolas, ponemos de manifiesto la oportunidad de que éstas modifiquen su gestión introduciendo el sistema, ya bien conocido y aplicado en el sector privado, del Cuadro de Mando Integral (CMI), como instrumento de planificación estratégica. Ello supone un cambio de filosofía en unas organizaciones que son pieza clave en el desarrollo empresarial y social de los territorios. Con el CMI las Cámaras atenderán y controlarán de forma más eficiente la realización de sus funciones a través de determinadas líneas estratégicas. Líneas que no sólo velan por los resultados financieros, sino también por la contribución en la mejora de la propia organización, de su personal, de la satisfacción de las necesidades de sus clientes, o usuarios, y del entorno socioeconómico. Y lo harán a través de indicadores, para lo cual proponemos un listado de éstos, Con ellos, las Cámaras podrán contar con una guía ágil para su gestión y control, a la par que visualizarán en la sociedad de qué manera y en qué medida contribuyen a su desarrollo.
THE USE OF VIDEO IN TEACHING GRAMMAR TO PRE-SECONDARY STUDENTS
Authors: Silalahi Ivo Novita S br , Halimi Sisilia Setiawati
Published: July 2020

This paper examines the effectiveness of videos as a teaching medium in a pre-intermediate grammar class in Tangerang, Indonesia. This research adopted a quasi-experimental approach with a posttest control group design. Two pre-secondary classes in Tangerang were selected as subjects of the study. Data were obtained from the pretest and posttest, a questionnaire on student perception of video usage in teaching, and interviews. The experimental class was taught using a video while the control class was taught via textbooks. A pretest and a posttest were given to the experimental class. The improvement in scores was then examined using t-test. To compare the learning results of the two groups, a final posttest was conducted on both classes after the lessons. The scores were then examined using the Mann–Whitney test. Results indicated that students who learned from the video achieved higher scores than those who learned from textbooks. The learning-style questionnaire results revealed that learning with videos was enjoyable. Therefore, this medium is highly recommended as a crucial grammar-teaching tool in the classroom.
ASPECTS OF PRECOLONIAL ISOKO SOCIO-POLITICAL RELATIONS WITH THEIR NEIGHBOURS IN SOUTH CENTRAL NIGERIA
Authors: Okpevra Uwomano Benjamin
Published: July 2020

This work focused on aspects of pre-colonial Isoko socio-political relations with their neighbours in the Niger Delta region of South Central Nigeria. It attempts to illuminate the nexus between internal and external dynamics and the concomitant changes and continuities in Isoko relations with their Urhobo, Ijaw, Ukwuani and Aboh neighbours. The work is premised on the historical method and interpretations deploying primary and secondary data to achieve its objective. The study concludes that intergroup relations in the region is largely influenced by their somewhat common ancestral origin; geographical contiguity; a shared common environmental and cultural practices; and the experience of similar external influences. This is done within the context of contemporary trajectory of the socio-political conflicts in the Niger Delta with serious implications for both National and International interests.
CYBER STALKING ACTIVITY OF MILENIAL GENERATION IN URBAN SOCIETY IN INDONESIA
Authors: Sugiharto Agus , Puspitasari Puspitasari
Published: July 2020

Millennial generation itself is often defined not by date of birth but also based on their behavioral and psychographic tendencies. This unique generation is a generation born in the internet age. Cyber stalking activities to ex-girlfriends or wives are often done, this is the reason why this cyber stalking activity exists and continues to grow, along with the many activities in social media, and the amount of social media used. It is a fairly large number, it seems that also experienced by the millennial generation, the activities carried out on the internet usual to obtain information. Methods in this study using qualitative method with sequential exploratory strategy. While theory used in the research is the theory of communication, theory of global village, theory negotiation advance, the theory of national resilience and social media theory. Cyber stalking has increased along with the easy access to the internet and mobile phone users owned smartphones. Cyber stalking activity is also done to co-workers, friends, boyfriend and ex-boyfriend. This means that cyber stalking activity will be a reasonable activity, self activity (private) even now is not uncommon to be public consumption. So that cyber stalking activity becomes something commonly done by millennial generation.
ROMAN CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE OF SIN AND HOMOSEXUALITY: SCRUTINIZING THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
Authors: Nwosu Patrick U.
Published: July 2020

In a pluralistic world, in which the issues of homosexuality and gay rights have taken the centre stage of discourse in Sub-Saharan Africa, critical analysis is required to re-appraise the Roman Catholic perspective of sin and homosexuality. Again, the emergence of the study of homosexuality as a subfield within African Studies gives further vent to critical reflection to assess the merits and demerits of Church pronouncements on the issues. In the context of emerging fields of study and various sexual orientations of people of different cultures today, the issue of the Roman Catholic understanding of sin and her teaching on homosexuality has become problematic to many, especially the young ones in various higher institutions of learning. A growing number of them think that the recent comments of the Catholic Pontiff are not helping matters. The challenges seem to lie in balancing the teachings on homosexuality with the belief that God is merciful and loving. The relatively charitable disposition of the Pope calls for the re-evaluation of the Church stance on sin and homosexuality. Therefore, the paper, using historical and analytical methods, examines the basic meaning of sin and puts in context the chances of accepting homosexuals without indeed undue focus on their habits that may be in need of healing. Drawing on relevant literature and on the assertions of some students in my classes, taking RCR 332, a course in Comparative Religious Studies in the Department of Religions, University of Ilorin, Nigeria, the paper concludes that in a pluralistic society the homosexuals may make the human community richer when given the same opportunities accorded the majority orientation.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND JOURNALISM PRACTICE IN NIGERIA: PERCEPTION OF JOURNALISTS IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE
Authors: Guanah Jammy Seigha , Agbanu Venatus Nosike , Obi Ijeoma
Published: July 2020

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gradually having effects on every facet of the society; the mass media, being an indispensable part of any society, are not exempted from this AI bug hence they must synergise with new technologies to remain relevant. This study looked at how AI can, or has been impacting journalism practice in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The study was anchored on the mediamorphosis theory while Survey and In-depth oral interview were adopted as the research methods for obtaining data. The 254 registered journalists under the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benin City Chapter, formed the population, and the sample size of 152 was determined using Cozby`s Precision of Estimate table. Among other findings, the study revealed the agreement of journalists in Benin City that automated journalism (usage of AI-driven media applications) is an improvement over the current reporting practices which are still done “manually.” It concluded that automation is the future, and Nigerian journalists cannot afford to be left out in the ultimate move to a world of automation, hence they have to prepare themselves, and embrace AI. Its recommendation included that Journalism schools should have curricula that embrace technology that will effectively prepare potential journalists for the future use of AI for their work.
UKHTI VS UGHTEA: ARABIC KINSHIP ADDRESS TERM AS SLANG AND IDENTITY IN INDONESIAN TWITTER
Authors: Qonitah Salma , Triwinarti Wiwin
Published: July 2020

Microblogging has taken a quotidian position in the scope of internet usage. This research explores the pragmatic of ughtea, a slang form of ukhti, as a term of address slang and identity in Twitter’s prominent behaviour on virtual sphere: tweeting. Semantically, ukhti refers to “sister” of a possessive pronoun of the first person i.e. the speaker, both in biological and ideological contexts. For the last two years (2018—2019), the usage of the term ukhti has undergone the extension of its meaning through its use among Indonesian Twitter users by changing its form into ughtea as a slang with degenerative meaning, in order to insinuate the exclusivity of the use of the term ukhti among Indonesian conservative Muslims and the misbehavior of ukhti. As a result, the meaning of the term ukhti experiences pejoration. These certain Indonesian Twitter users, according to McCulloch’s classification of Internet People (2019) are classified as Post Internet People. This research problem focuses on the analysis of the speakers, terms, and how both terms used in the context of pejoration. This study aims to analyze both terms in terms of shifting meaning in terms of speakers, speech, and usage by implementing corpus linguistic approach and Martin and White (2005)’s appraisal system. Data sources were obtained from Twitter users' tweets during a certain period (October 2019).
Gap junctions deliver malonyl-CoA from soma to germline to support embryogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Starich Todd A , Bai Xiaofei , Greenstein David
Published: July 2020

Gap junctions are ubiquitous in metazoans and play critical roles in important biological processes, including electrical conduction and development. Yet, only a few defined molecules passing through gap junction channels have been linked to specific functions. We isolated gap junction channel mutants that reduce coupling between the soma and germ cells in theCaenorhabditis elegansgonad. We provide evidence that malonyl-CoA, the rate-limiting substrate for fatty acid synthesis (FAS), is produced in the soma and delivered through gap junctions to the germline; there it is used in fatty acid synthesis to critically support embryonic development. Separation of malonyl-CoA production from its site of utilization facilitates somatic control of germline development. Additionally, we demonstrate that loss of malonyl-CoA production in the intestine negatively impacts germline development independently of FAS. Our results suggest that metabolic outsourcing of malonyl-CoA may be a strategy by which the soma communicates nutritional status to the germline.
Distribution of deep-water scleractinian and stylasterid corals across abiotic environmental gradients on three seamounts in the Anegada Passage
Authors: Auscavitch Steven R. , Lunden Jay J. , Barkman Alexandria , Quattrini Andrea M. , Demopoulos Amanda W.J. , Cordes Erik E.
Published: July 2020

In the Caribbean Basin the distribution and diversity patterns of deep-sea scleractinian corals and stylasterid hydrocorals are poorly known compared to their shallow-water relatives. In this study, we examined species distribution and community assembly patterns of scleractinian and stylasterid corals on three high-profile seamounts within the Anegada Passage, a deep-water throughway linking the Caribbean Sea and western North Atlantic. Using remotely operated vehicle surveys conducted on the E/V Nautilus by the ROV Hercules in 2014, we characterized coral assemblages and seawater environmental variables between 162 and 2,157 m on Dog Seamount, Conrad Seamount, and Noroît Seamount. In all, 13 morphospecies of scleractinian and stylasterid corals were identified from video with stylasterids being numerically more abundant than both colonial and solitary scleractinians. Cosmopolitan framework-forming species including Madrepora oculata and Solenosmilia variabilis were present but occurred in patchy distributions among the three seamounts. Framework-forming species occurred at or above the depth of the aragonite saturation horizon with stylasterid hydrocorals being the only coral taxon observed below Ωarag values of 1. Coral assemblage variation was found to be strongly associated with depth and aragonite saturation state, while other environmental variables exerted less influence. This study enhances our understanding of the factors that regulate scleractinian and stylasterid coral distribution in an underreported marginal sea and establishes a baseline for monitoring future environmental changes due to ocean acidification and deoxygenation in the tropical western Atlantic.
Effect of the Leaf Extract of Bidens pilosa on Haemostasis
Authors: Benard Pade , Barugahare Banson
Published: July 2020

Aims: To determine the effect of the leaf extract of Bidens pilosa on the rate of haemostasis and validate its traditional use application to fresh wounds.

Study Design: Experimental

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Education, Busitema University and Nagongera Health Center IV laboratory between April and May 2019.

Methodology: Different concentrations of the extract were applied to blood samples. Whole venous blood was collected by vein puncture in heparin tubes. The rate of clotting in presence and absence of the extract was determined. The experiment was replicated.

Results: Increase in the concentration of the extract decreased the rate of haemostasis. Statistical analysis with a two-way ANOVA was significant, P = 0.02 at a 95% CI.

Conclusion: High concentration Bidens pilosa leaf extract decreases the rate of haemostasis but may have other healing activities attributed to its historical and traditional use and application to fresh wounds.
Developing Graded TED Talks to Integrate Academic Vocabulary into Listening Lessons for Pre‐Sessional Learners
Authors: Madarbakus‐Ring Naheen
Published: July 2020

TED Talks have become a primary listening resource to use in academic contexts. However, for learners using academic vocabulary with TED Talks in their second language (L2), listening can prove difficult in facilitating effective lexical practice for learners. This entry builds on prior evidence suggesting TED Talks‐based listening lessons need 4% academic word list (AWL) coverage to guide academic vocabulary decisions. This entry explores the suitability of TED Talks in pre‐sessional contexts by using Romanelli, Cain, and McNamara's aspects checklist from 2014. The entry then outlines how vocabulary profiles created from software, such as Compleat Lexical Tutor Classic, can help provide learners with strategy exposure and vocabulary practice in listening lessons. Finally, practical suggestions to integrate academic vocabulary and listening strategies into TED Talks‐based lessons are discussed. The entry demonstrates how using academic vocabulary tasks in TED Talks‐based listening lessons can support educators who seek pedagogic listening and vocabulary guidance.
Digital Literacy and Adult English Learners
Authors: Harris Kathy
Published: July 2020

Digital literacies are the socially and culturally embedded practices that are required as part of 21st‐century life in nearly every domain, from work, to education, to health, as well as for personal and community purposes. Digital literacies include the linguistic, pragmatic, and technical conventions of writing digital communication to a teacher about their children, to a neighbor about a problem, or to a work supervisor about a scheduling issue, for example. All workers, including adult English language learners, can expect that the skills required to perform their work will change and require increasing technology skills and digital literacies. Language teachers can integrate digital literacies instruction into their existing lessons and curricula in a variety of ways that promote both English language learning and the acquisition of digital literacies. Digital literacy activities need to be relevant to learners' goals, include multiple exposures, and support a try‐and‐see mindset. This entry addresses these concerns.
English Medium Instruction (EMI) Lectures
Authors: Siegel Joseph
Published: July 2020

English medium instruction (EMI) lectures have been growing in number as more universities worldwide seek to provide intercultural educational opportunities. While the lecture format is well‐established in tertiary education, EMI lectures represent a complex learning environment that is influenced by the spoken English proficiency of the lecturer and the listening abilities of the lecture attendees. Various factors can impact the relative success of participants in EMI lectures. Relevant theoretical and research‐based information on EMI lectures is described, including pedagogic implications and suggestions for both EMI lecturers and students attending such lectures.
Functionally Graded Phononic Crystals with Broadband Gap for Controlling Shear Wave Propagation
Authors: Liu Wenlong , Yi Bing , Yoon Gil Ho , Choi Hyunggyu
Published: July 2020

Metamaterials that can be used in manipulating wave propagation have been shown in previous research. However, existing methods for controlling the propagation of shear waves remain a challenge. By combining the principle of wave destructive interference and the design concept of the gradient‐index phononic crystals, here new functionally graded phononic crystals with broadband gap for controlling shear wave propagation are presented. The proposed functionally graded phononic crystals are formed by an array of unit cells with different topological geometries, where the topological geometries of the unit cell are tailored to obtain the frequency bandgap guided by the wave destructive interference. Meanwhile, the frequency bandgap with a target width is obtained by combining the design concept of the gradient‐index phononic crystals. This work presents an approach to control the propagation of shear waves, and the advantages of the method reported in this work can be useful in engineering applications, such as bridges, railways, and buildings.
pH/Cathepsin B Hierarchical‐Responsive Nanoconjugates for Enhanced Tumor Penetration and Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Du Hongliang , Zhao Sui , Wang Yaoqi , Wang Zenghui , Chen Binlong , Yan Yue , Yin Qingqing , Liu Dechun , Wan Fangjie , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yiguang
Published: July 2020

An ideal cancer nanomedicine should precisely deliver therapeutics to its intracellular target within tumor cells. However, the multiple biological barriers seriously hinder their delivery efficiency, leading to unsatisfactory therapeutic outcome. Herein, pH/cathepsin B hierarchical‐responsive nanoconjugates (HRNs) are reported to overcome these barriers by sequentially responding to extra‐ and intracellular stimuli in solid tumors for programmed delivery of docetaxel (DTX). The HRNs have stable nanostructures (≈40 nm) in blood circulation for efficient tumor accumulation, while the tumor extracellular acidity induces the rapid dissociation of HRNs into polymer conjugates (≈5 nm), facilitating the deep tumor penetration and cellular internalization. After being trapped into the lysosomes, the conjugates are cleaved by cathepsin B to release bioactive DTX into cytoplasm and inhibit cell proliferation. In addition to the direct inhibition effect, HRNs can trigger the in vivo antitumor immune responses via the immunogenic modulation of tumor cells, activation of dendritic cells (DCs), and generation of cytotoxic T‐cell responses. By employing a combination with α‐PD‐1 (programmed cell death 1) therapy, synergistic antitumor efficacy is achieved in B16 expressing ovalbumin (B16OVA) tumor model. Hence, this strategy demonstrates high efficiency for precise intracellular delivery of chemotherapeutics and provides a potential clinical candidate for cancer chemo‐immunotherapy.
Character evolution of modern fly‐speck fungi and implications for interpreting thyriothecial fossils
Authors: Le Renard Ludovic , Firmino André L. , Pereira Olinto L. , Stockey Ruth A. , Berbee Mary L.
Published: July 2020

Premise

Fossils show that fly‐speck fungi have been reproducing with small, black thyriothecia on leaf surfaces for ~250 million years. We analyzed morphological characters of extant thyriothecial fungi to develop a phylogenetic framework for interpreting fossil taxa.

Methods

We placed 59 extant fly‐speck fungi in a phylogeny of 320 Ascomycota using nuclear ribosomal large and small subunit sequences, including newly determined sequences from nine taxa. We reconstructed ancestral character states using BayesTraits and maximum likelihood after coding 11 morphological characters based on original observations and literature. We analyzed the relationships of three previously published Mesozoic fossils using parsimony and our morphological character matrix, constrained by the molecular phylogeny.

Results

Thyriothecia evolved convergently in multiple lineages of superficial, leaf‐inhabiting ascomycetes. The radiate and ostiolate scutellum organization is restricted to Dothideomycetes. Scutellum initiation by intercalary septation of a single hypha characterizes Asterinales and Asterotexiales, and initiation by coordinated growth of two or more adjacent hyphae characterizes Aulographaceae. Scutella in Microthyriales are initiated apically on a lateral hyphal branch. Patterns of hyphal branching in scutella contribute to distinguishing among orders. Parsimony resolves three fossil taxa as Dothideomycetes; one is further resolved as a member of a Microthyriales‐Zeloasperisporiales clade within Dothideomycetes.

Conclusions

This is the most comprehensive systematic study of thyriothecial fungi and their relatives to date. Parsimony analysis of the matrix of character states of modern taxa provides an objective basis for interpreting fossils, leading to insights into morphological evolution and geological ages of Dothideomycetes clades.
International registry of otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeons with COVID‐19
Authors: Sowerby Leigh J , Stephenson Kate , Dickie Alexander , Lella Federico A. Di , Jefferson Niall , North Hannah , De Siati R. Daniele , Maunsell Rebecca , Herzog Michael , Nandhan Raghu , Trozzi Marilena , Dehgani‐Mobaraki Puya , Melkane Antoine , Callejas Claudio , Miljeteig Harald , Smit Diane , Reynoso Daniel Dibildox , Moura Joao Eloi , Hermansson Ann , Peer Shazia , Burnell Lisa , Fakhry Nicolas , Chiesa‐Estomba Carlos , Önerci Çelebi Özlem , Karpischenko Sergei , Sobol Steven , Sargi Zoukaa , Patel Zara M.
Published: July 2020

Background

It has become clear that healthcare workers are at high risk, and otolaryngology has been theorized to be among the highest risk specialties for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The purpose of this study was to detail the international impact of COVID‐19 among otolaryngologists, and to identify instructional cases.

Methods

Country representatives of the Young Otolaryngologists–International Federation of Otolaryngologic Societies (YO‐IFOS) surveyed otolaryngologists through various channels. Nationwide surveys were distributed in 19 countries. The gray literature and social media channels were searched to identify reported deaths of otolaryngologists from COVID‐19.

Results

A total of 361 otolaryngologists were identified to have had COVID‐19, and data for 325 surgeons was available for analysis. The age range was 25 to 84 years, with one‐half under the age of 44 years. There were 24 deaths in the study period, with 83% over age 55 years. Source of infection was likely clinical activity in 175 (54%) cases. Prolonged exposure to a colleague was the source for 37 (11%) surgeons. Six instructional cases were identified where infections occurred during the performance of aerosol‐generating operations (tracheostomy, mastoidectomy, epistaxis control, dacryocystorhinostomy, and translabyrinthine resection). In 3 of these cases, multiple operating room attendees were infected, and in 2, the surgeon succumbed to complications of COVID‐19.

Conclusion

The etiology of reported cases within the otolaryngology community appear to stem equally from clinical activity and community spread. Multiple procedures performed by otolaryngologists are aerosol‐generating procedures (AGPs) and great care should be taken to protect the surgical team before, during, and after these operations.
Chemical Synthesis Elucidates the Key Antigenic Epitope of the Autism‐Related Bacterium Clostridium bolteae Capsular Octadecasaccharide
Authors: Cai Juntao , Hu Jing , Qin Chunjun , Li Lingxin , Shen Dacheng , Tian Guangzong , Zou Xiaopeng , Seeberger Peter H. , Yin Jian
Published: July 2020

The gut pathogen Clostridium bolteae has been associated with the onset of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To create vaccines against C. bolteae, it is important to identify exact protective epitopes of the immunologically active capsular polysaccharide (CPS). Here, a series of C. bolteae CPS glycans, up to an octadecasaccharide, was prepared. Key to achieving the total syntheses is a [2+2] coupling strategy based on a β‐d‐Rhap‐(1→3)‐α‐d‐Manp repeating unit that in turn was accessed by a stereoselective β‐d‐rhamnosylation. The 4,6‐O‐benzylidene‐induced conformational locking is a powerful strategy for forming a β‐d‐mannose‐type glycoside. An indirect strategy based on C2 epimerization of β‐d‐quinovoside was efficiently achieved by Swern oxidation and borohydride reduction. Sequential glycosylation, and regioselective and global deprotection produced the disaccharide and tetrasaccharide, up to the octadecasaccharide. Glycan microarray analysis of sera from rabbits immunized with inactivated C. bolteae bacteria revealed a humoral immune response to the di‐ and tetrasaccharide, but none of the longer sequences. The tetrasaccharide may be a key motif for designing glycoconjugate vaccines against C. bolteae.
High‐Throughput Label‐Free Enzymatic Assays Using Desorption Electrospray‐Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Morato Nicolás M. , Holden Dylan T. , Cooks R. Graham
Published: July 2020

High‐throughput (HT) enzymatic assays, which typically rely on labeled compounds and plate readers, are important for drug discovery. Mass spectrometry (MS) provides an alternative method of performing HT label‐free assays. Here we demonstrate the use of a HT platform based on desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) MS for the label‐free study of enzymatic reactions directly from the bioassay matrix with an effective analysis time of 0.3 s per sample. This system allows for thorough analysis of the enzymatic process through monitoring of its substrate and product after an external calibration. We show the platform capabilities by an in‐depth study of the acetylcholinesterase assay, including kinetic parameter determination, rapid inhibitor screening, and further characterization of positive hits (that is, IC50andKi), as well as inhibition–reactivation assays. We anticipate that the expansion of this platform has high potential impact in label‐free enzymology as well as in drug discovery.
Beyond the Sex Binary: Toward the Inclusive Anatomical Sciences Education
Authors: Štrkalj Goran , Pather Nalini
Published: July 2020

Developments in biology and genetics in recent decades have caused significant shifts in the understanding and conceptualization of human biological variation. Humans vary biologically in different ways, including individually, due to age, ancestry, and sex. An understanding of the complexities of all levels of biological variation is necessary for efficient health care delivery. Important steps in teaching medical students about human variation could be carried out in anatomy classes, and thus, it is important that anatomical education absorbs new developments in how biological variation is comprehended. Since the early 1990s biological sex in humans has been vigorously investigated by scientists, social scientists, and interest groups. Consequently, the binary division in male and female sex has been called into question and a more fluid understanding of sex has been proposed. Some of the major textbooks teach anatomy, particularly of the urogenital system, as a male‐female binary. Anatomical sciences curricula need to adopt a more current approach to sex including the introduction of the category of “intersex”/“differences in sexual development” and present sex as a continuum rather than two sharply divided sets of characteristics. This approach offers a better understanding of the complexity of sex differences and, at the same time, provides students with an improved theoretical framework for understanding human variation in general, transcending the limitations of biological typology. When well delivered, the non‐binary approach could play a significant contribution to the formation of competent and responsible medical practitioners and avoidance of problematic practices such as non‐consensual “normalizing” surgeries.
Ancestry‐Tracking of Stress Response GPCR Clades: A Conceptual Path to Treating Depression
Authors: Boucard Antony A.
Published: July 2020

The environmental complexity in which living organisms found themselves throughout evolution, most likely resulted in various encounters that would continuously challenge the organisms' ability to survive. Coping with this stress can prove energetically demanding and might require the proper coupling between mechanisms aimed at sensing external stimuli and cellular strategies geared at producing energy. In this issue of BioEssays, Lovejoy and Hogg hypothesize that preservation of this bifaceted coupling can be detected by the maintenance and evolution of stress response mechanisms at the genomic, molecular and cellular levels. Through ancestry‐tracking, they identify a group of related G protein‐coupled receptor systems with intersecting stress‐modulating properties which might represent an essential part of a complex organism's coping mechanisms to stress, an attribute that they suspect may be affected in individuals suffering from mood disorders such as depression.
Venous thromboembolism during preoperative chemotherapy in the CRITICS gastric cancer trial
Authors: Slagter Astrid E. , Sikorska Karolina , Grootscholten Cecile , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. , Lind Pehr , Nordsmark Marianne , Meershoek‐Klein Kranenbarg Elma , van de Velde Cornelis J. H. , van Grieken Nicole C. T. , van Sandick Johanna W. , Jansen Edwin P. M. , Verheij Marcel , Cats Annemieke
Published: July 2020

Background

The occurrence of a venous thromboembolism (VTE) is common in patients with cancer. Gastric cancer has been associated with one of the highest risks for VTE. Chemotherapy, especially cisplatin has been associated with a high VTE risk. In this study, risk factors for VTE occurrence and their potential impact on subsequent therapeutic interventions were investigated in patients who underwent preoperative chemotherapy, in the CRITICS gastric cancer trial.

Patients and methods

Patients with resectable gastric cancer were preoperatively treated with three cycles of 3‐weekly epirubicin, cisplatin or oxaliplatin, and capecitabine (ECC/EOC). VTE was defined as any thrombus in the venous system, excluding superficial and/or device related VTEs. Potential risk factors were analyzed in a multivariable regression model with age, gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), tumor localization, Lauren classification, type of chemotherapy (ECC/EOC), (cardiovascular) comorbidity, and previous VTE as independent risk factors. The impact of VTE on completion rate of preoperative chemotherapy, surgical resection rate, postoperative complications, and start of postoperative therapy were investigated.

Results

Of 781 patients, 78 (10%) of 781 patients developed a VTE during preoperative chemotherapy. On multivariable analysis, BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and previous VTE were associated with VTE occurrence (reference BMI < 25 kg/m2; OR 2.190; 95% CI 1.152‐4.164; P = .017/previous VTE; OR 3.617; 95% CI 1.201‐10.890; P = .022). Treatment with cisplatin was, compared to oxaliplatin, not significantly associated with VTE occurrence (OR 1.535; 95% CI 0.761‐3.094; P = .231). VTE occurrence did not affect completion of preoperative chemotherapy, surgical resection rate, postoperative complications, or start of postoperative therapy.

Conclusion

High BMI and previous VTE were independent risk factors for VTE occurrence during preoperative chemotherapy in patients with resectable gastric cancer. VTE occurrence in the preoperative setting did not affect receipt of further treatment.
The Impact of Halogenated Phenylalanine Derivatives on NFGAIL Amyloid Formation
Authors: Chowdhary Suvrat , Moschner Johann , Mikolajczak Dorian J. , Becker Maximilian , Thünemann Andreas F. , Kästner Claudia , Klemczak Damian , Stegemann Anne‐Katrin , Böttcher Christoph , Metrangolo Pierangelo , Netz Roland R. , Koksch Beate
Published: July 2020

The hexapeptide hIAPP22–27 (NFGAIL) is known as a crucial amyloid core sequence of the human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) whose aggregates can be used to better understand the wild‐type hIAPP′s toxicity to β‐cell death. In amyloid research, the role of hydrophobic and aromatic‐aromatic interactions as potential driving forces during the aggregation process is controversially discussed not only in case of NFGAIL, but also for amyloidogenic peptides in general. We have used halogenation of the aromatic residue as a strategy to modulate hydrophobic and aromatic‐aromatic interactions and prepared a library of NFGAIL variants containing fluorinated and iodinated phenylalanine analogues. We used thioflavin T staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) to study the impact of side‐chain halogenation on NFGAIL amyloid formation kinetics. Our data revealed a synergy between aggregation behavior and hydrophobicity of the phenylalanine residue. This study introduces systematic fluorination as a toolbox to further investigate the nature of the amyloid self‐assembly process.
Immobilization of Tris(1,10‐phenanthroline)ruthenium on Acetylene Carbon Black for Regenerable Electrochemiluminescence Sensors Free from Ionic Exchanger
Authors: Anjum Saima , Ma Xiangui , Yuan Fan , Lou Baohua , Iftikhar Irum , Aziz‐ur‐Rehman  , Xu Guobao
Published: July 2020

Acetylene carbon black has excellent conductivity, structural assortment and adsorption characteristics. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that carbon black has been used for assembling regenerable electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensors. The present method involves the immobilization of Ru(phen)32+ on acetylene carbon black without using any ionic exchanger, owing to the strong adsorption capability of acetylene carbon black toward Ru(phen)32+, thereby avoiding the loss of activity resulting from the migration of ruthenium complex into the hydrophobic region of ionic exchanger. The developed Ru(phen)32+‐acetylene carbon black regenerable ECL sensor for the determination of oxalate shows a linear response from 1×10−7 M to 1×10−3 M with a remarkable detection limit of 2.5×10−9 M (S/N=3). The effect of various commonly associated species within real samples was also explored. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of oxalate in urine samples. The as‐prepared Ru(phen)32+‐acetylene carbon black regenerable ECL sensor exhibits outstanding long‐term stability over six months and also good reproducibility. The relative standard deviation of five repeated values of 1.0 mM oxalate concentrations is 4.1 %. The developed Ru(phen)32+‐acetylene carbon black regenerable ECL sensor is promising for ECL detection.
Main‐Group Metallocenophanes
Authors: Wirtz Lisa , Schäfer André
Published: July 2020

Metallocenes with interlinked cyclopentadienide ligands are commonly referred to as ansa‐metallocenes or metallocenophanes. These can have drastically different properties than their unbridged parent compounds. While this concept is best known for transition metals such as iron, it can also be adopted for many main‐group elements. This review aims to summarize recent advances in the field of metallocenophanes based on main‐group elements of group 2, group 13, group 14 and group 15, focusing on synthesis, structure and properties of these compounds.
Chemical Communication between Organometallic Single‐Chain Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Kobernik Victoria , Berkovich Inbal , Levy Avishai , Lemcoff N. Gabriel , Diesendruck Charles E.
Published: July 2020

Chemical communication between macromolecules was studied by observing the controlled single chain collapse that ensues the exchange of a metal cross‐linker between two polymer chains. The rhodium (I) organometallic cross‐linker transfer from a low molecular weight collapsed polybutadiene to a larger polymer was followed using size exclusion chromatography. The increased effective molarity in the larger polymer seems to be the driving force for the metal migration. Thus, we demonstrate here a strategy for transferring a molecular signal that induces chain collapse of a polymer chain based on non‐covalent interactions, mimicking biological behaviors reminiscent of signal transductions in proteins.
Mechanisms and conditions that affect phase inversion processes: A review
Authors: Maffi Juan M. , Meira Gregorio R. , Estenoz Diana A.
Published: July 2020

The phenomenon of phase inversion occurs in liquid‐liquid dispersions found in a variety of chemical engineering fields. From simple oil‐water mixtures to complex polymeric systems, the operating variables that affect this physical phenomenon are discussed in this work. The contribution on this matter by a large number of researchers is critically assessed, outlining both coherent and conflicting results. A detailed review of the mechanisms by which phase inversion takes place is also provided. While this subject has been studied for the past 50 years, this multivariate nonlinear process is not yet comprehensively understood, and this review article aims to describe the conclusions so far reached to provide insight for future research.
Isolated progression of metastatic lung cancer: Clinical outcomes associated with definitive radiotherapy
Authors: Friedes Cole , Mai Nicholas , Fu Wei , Hu Chen , Hazell Sarah Z. , Han Peijin , McNutt Todd R. , Forde Patrick M. , Redmond Kristin J. , Voong K. Ranh , Hales Russell K.
Published: July 2020

Background

Progressive, metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) often requires the initiation of new systemic therapy. However, in patients with NSCLC that is oligoprogressive (≤3 lesions), local radiotherapy (RT) may allow for the eradication of resistant microclones and, therefore, the continuation of otherwise effective systemic therapy.

Methods

Patients treated from 2008 to 2019 with definitive doses of RT to all sites of intracranial or extracranial oligoprogression without a change in systemic therapy were identified. Radiographic progression‐free survival (rPFS) and time to new therapy (TNT) were measured. Associations between baseline clinical and treatment‐related variables were correlated with progression‐free survival via Cox proportional hazards modeling.

Results

Among 198 unique patients, 253 oligoprogressive events were identified. Intracranial progression occurred in 51% of the patients, and extracranial progression occurred in 49%. In the entire cohort, the median rPFS was 7.9 months (95% CI, 6.5‐10.0 months), and the median TNT was 8.8 months (95% CI, 7.2‐10.9 months). On adjusted modeling, patients with the following disease characteristics were associated with better rPFS: better performance status (P = .003), fewer metastases (P = .03), longer time to oligoprogression (P = .009), and fewer previous systemic therapies (P = .02). Having multiple sites of oligoprogression was associated with worse rPFS (P < .001).

Conclusions

In select patients with oligoprogression, definitive RT is a feasible treatment option to delay the initiation of next‐line systemic therapies, which have more limited response rates and efficacy. Further randomized prospective data may help to validate these findings and identify which patients are most likely to benefit.