bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atlantic cod recovery from the Allee effect zone: contrasting ecological and evolutionary rescue
Authors: Kuparinen Anna , Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva
Published: June 2020

The ability of a population to recover from disturbances is fundamental for its persistence. Impaired population recovery might be associated with a demographic Allee effect. Immigration from adjacent populations could accelerate the recovery not only by promoting population growth beyond the Allee effect threshold but also by bringing in advantageous genotypes. We explore the nature and role of ecological and evolutionary rescue in an Atlantic cod (Gadus morhuaGadidae) population fished below its Allee effect threshold. We utilize an eco‐evolutionary model and simulate scenarios, where the target population evolves in response to selective fishing and sample immigrants from (a) a source population similarly adapted to fishing (post‐fishing genotypes) or (b) an unexploited source population with natural genetic and phenotypic diversity (pre‐fishing genotypes). Immigration of pre‐fishing genotypes enhances the recovery due to the larger body sizes and the flow of associated genes. Post‐fishing immigrants can also promote the population abundance recovery, but they increase uncertainty about recovery times as compared to pre‐fishing immigrants and do not promote evolutionary recovery. Our results stress the importance of maintaining genetic and phenotypic diversity and suggest that marine protected areas can serve as an important source of immigrants to promote both the demographic and evolutionary recovery of exploited populations.
Interactive global change factors mitigate soil aggregation and carbon change in a semi‐arid grassland
Authors: Bai Tongshuo , Wang Peng , Hall Steven J. , Wang Fuwei , Ye Chenglong , Li Zhen , Li Shijie , Zhou Luyao , Qiu Yunpeng , Guo Jiuxin , Guo Hui , Wang Yi , Hu Shuijin
Published: June 2020

The ongoing global change is multi‐faceted, but the interactive effects of multiple drivers on the persistence of soil carbon (C) are poorly understood. We examined the effects of warming, reactive nitrogen (N) inputs (12 g N m−2 year−1) and altered precipitation (+ or − 30% ambient) on soil aggregates and mineral‐associated C in a 4 year manipulation experiment with a semi‐arid grassland on China's Loess Plateau. Our results showed that in the absence of N inputs, precipitation additions significantly enhanced soil aggregation and promoted the coupling between aggregation and both soil fungal biomass and exchangeable Mg2+. However, N inputs negated the promotional effects of increased precipitation, mainly through suppressing fungal growth and altering soil pH and clay‐Mg2+‐OC bridging. Warming increased C content in the mineral‐associated fraction, likely by increasing inputs of root‐derived C, and reducing turnover of existing mineral‐associated C due to suppression of fungal growth and soil respiration. Together, our results provide new insights into the potential mechanisms through which multiple global change factors control soil C persistence in arid and semi‐arid grasslands. These findings suggest that the interactive effects among global change factors should be incorporated to predict the soil C dynamics under future global change scenarios.
Implications of China's innovation policy shift: Does “indigenous” mean closed?
Authors: Losacker Sebastian , Liefner Ingo
Published: June 2020

China's government aims to become an innovation nation and promotes the development of so‐called indigenous innovation. Under this paradigm of state‐encouraged innovation, however, it is unclear how domestic firms organize their innovation processes. We distinguish between two strategies in that respect: closed versus open innovation. Our findings suggest that firms with closed innovation processes collaborate in close geographic distance, rely on DUI‐modes of learning, and collaborations are based on guanxi. In contrast, firms with open innovation processes collaborate over large distances and rely on STI‐modes of learning that are not necessarily guanxi‐based. The findings help to understand the heterogeneous nature of indigenous innovation in China.
Modelling the economic and clinical burden of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in East Asia: Data from Hong Kong
Authors: Tampi Radhika P. , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Shu Sally She‐Ting , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Fung James , Stepanova Maria , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: June 2020

Aim

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the progressive form of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and prevalence is rising in Asia due to increasing rates of urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition.

Methods

We built a Markov model with 20‐year horizon to estimate the burden of NASH in Hong Kong. Cohort size was determined by population size, prevalence of NAFLD, and incidence of NASH in 2017. Health states include hepatic steatosis, fibrosis stages 0–3, compensated and decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, post‐liver transplant, and liver‐related, cardiovascular, and background mortality. Transition probabilities were estimated from published reports and we converted 2017 Gazette price from the Hospital Authority of Hong Kong to US dollars. We discounted costs by 3% annually. Health utilities were assumed to be the same as in the USA.

Results

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis will cost $1.32 billion and 124 liver transplants over 20 years, with average cost per person‐year of $257. Sensitivity analyses show our model is robust in predicting costs for the prevalent population but likely overestimates costs for the incident population.

Conclusions

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis will contribute to a significant clinical and economic burden in Hong Kong over the next two decades. Due to the limited number of donors and small number of liver transplants undertaken annually, patients with advanced liver disease due to NASH in Hong Kong are more likely to die from NASH than their counterparts in North America and Europe. Thus, rising prevalence of metabolic syndrome in elderly adults in Hong Kong make NASH an important consideration for clinicians and policy makers.
Low water absorption and pyroplastic deformation of alumina‐strengthened porcelain with petalite and Gairome clay
Authors: Hao Dong , Akatsu Takashi , Ohtake Asami , Shiraishi Atsunori , Kamochi Nobuaki
Published: June 2020

The pyroplastic deformation (PD) of porcelain is a key issue for reducing production loss. In this study, material design to realize both a low water absorption (WA) and low PD in alumina‐strengthened porcelain, which have a trade‐off relationship, was proposed. In this porcelain material design, a rigid microstructure composed of entangled needle‐like mullite crystals is formed by the addition of Gairome clay, which has the positive effect of suppressing PD but negatively affects densification. This was balanced by the controlling the amount and viscosity of the liquid phase in the porcelain fired at elevated temperatures with optimized quantities of added petalite and Gairome clay to obtain a low WA and low PD. As a result, a WA below 0.5% and PD index below 1.5 × 10−6 mm−1 in a wide firing temperature range from 1194 to 1384°C were obtained for porcelain containing Amakusa clay at 37.8 mass%, Gairome clay at 17.0 mass%, petalite at 13.7 mass%, and alumina at 31.5 mass%.
Cross‐evaluation of five slidemakers and three automated image analysis systems: The pitfalls of automation?
Authors: Saad Albichr Imane , Sottiaux Jean‐Yves , Hotton Julie , De Laveleye Morgane , Dupret Phillipe , Detry Gautier
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Automated slidemakers and stainers and digital microscopes are coupled with haematology analysers to achieve better efficiency and cost‐effectiveness. This study evaluates the integrated performance of slidemakers and digital microscopes commonly available on the market.

Methods

We compared the percentage of neutrophils for five slidemakers (two Siemens Advia Autoslides, a SysmexSP‐10 and SP‐50 and an Abbot Alinity hs) and a Horiba Hemaprep to the corresponding haematology analyser data (Siemens Advia 2120i, Sysmex XN and Abbot Alinity hq). Differential leucocyte counting (DLC) was performed on three different CellaVision digital microscopes (DM96, DM1200 and DI‐60) and manually. The quality of the smears was assessed using a CellaVision SmearChecker.

Results

We observed a significant positive absolute bias (P < .05) for the percentage of neutrophils with the Autoslide and Alinity hs smears on the digital microscopes, but not when DLC was performed manually. The SP‐10 and SP‐50 showed no bias regardless of the DLC method. No bias was observed for the Hemaprep smears. All the smears had an acceptable monolayer quality, stain intensity and colour. All smears, except those from Sp‐10, were of an acceptable length.

Conclusion

Users should be aware of a potential lack of accuracy that can be encountered when using some slidemakers and digital microscopes. All laboratories should validate or verify the differential counts from slidemakers and digital microscope with automated cell differential counters. Manual count validation should only be considered if a significant proportion of clinically relevant abnormal cells are present. Otherwise, haematology analyser results should be favoured.
Comparison between dorsal onlay and one‐sided dorsolateral onlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty in long anterior urethral strictures
Authors: Kartal Ibrahim , Çimen Sertaç , Kokurcan Alihan , Akay Emin Ozan , Yiğitbaşı Orhan , Yalçınkaya Fatih
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare dorsal onlay (conventional Barbagli) and one‐sided dorsolateral onlay (Kulkarni technique) buccal mucosa substitution urethroplasty techniques for the treatment of long anterior urethral strictures.

Methods

Demographic data, treatment outcomes and success rates of patients who underwent either conventional Barbagli or Kulkarni urethroplasty for the treatment of an anterior urethral stricture longer than 8 cm between January 2010 and March 2019 in our center were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Demographic parameters of patients who underwent the conventional Barbagli (n = 37) or Kulkarni procedure (n = 31) did not differ. The mean surgical duration and hospital stay were shorter for patients treated with the Kulkarni technique (179.5 ± 30.0 and 3.5 ± 1.2 vs 195.5 ± 28.9 min and 4.4 ± 1.8 days; P = 0.037, P = 0.002). Mean intraoperative blood loss and perioperative complication rates were signficantly lower in patients who underwent the Kulkarni technique than those who underwent the conventional Barbagli technique (164.3 ± 62.9 vs 202.4 ± 78.1 mL; P = 0.033 and 16.1% vs 37.8%; P = 0.046). The mean follow‐up time period was 59.8 ± 24.7 and 63.5 ± 26.8 months for Kulkarni and conventional Barbagli techniques, respectively. Success rates based these follow‐up time periods were 27 (87.1%) and 26 (70.3%) for the Kulkarni and conventional Barbagli techniques, respectively.

Conclusion

The Kulkarni technique should be more preferred for the treatment of long anterior urethral strictures over the conventional Barbagli technique based on surgical outcomes and success rates.
DNA barcoding of echinopluteus larvae uncovers cryptic diversity in neotropical echinoids
Authors: Collin Rachel , Venera‐Pontón Dagoberto E. , Driskell Amy C. , Macdonald Kenneth S. , Geyer Laura B. , Lessios Harilaos A. , Boyle Michael J.
Published: June 2020

Surveys of larval diversity consistently increase biodiversity estimates when applied to poorly documented groups of marine invertebrates such as phoronids and hemichordates. However, it remains to be seen how helpful this approach is for detecting unsampled species in well‐studied groups. Echinoids represent a large, robust, well‐studied macrofauna, with low diversity and low incidence of cryptic species, making them an ideal test case for the efficacy of larval barcoding to discover diversity in such groups. We developed a reference dataset of DNA barcodes for the shallow‐water adult echinoids from both coasts of Panama and compared them to DNA sequences obtained from larvae collected primarily on the Caribbean coast of Panama. We sequenced mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) for 43 species of adult sea urchins to expand the number and coverage of sequences available in GenBank. Sequences were successfully obtained for COI and 16S ribosomal DNA from 272 larvae and assigned to 17 operational taxonomic units (OTUs): 4 from the Pacific coast of Panama, where larvae were not sampled as intensively, and 13 from the Caribbean coast. Of these 17 OTUs, 13 were identified from comparisons with our adult sequences and belonged to species well documented in these regions. Another larva was identified from comparisons with unpublished sequences in the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD) as belonging to Pseudoboletia, a genus scarcely known in the Caribbean and previously unreported in Panama. Three OTUs remained unidentified. Based on larval morphology, at least two of these OTUs appeared to be spatangoids, which are difficult to collect and whose presence often goes undetected in standard surveys of benthic diversity. Despite its ability to capture unanticipated diversity, larval sampling failed to collect some species that are locally common along the Caribbean coast of Panama, such as Leodia sexiesperforata, Diadema antillarum, and Clypeaster rosaceus.
Effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage vs. perineal massage in secundigravida women with gestational oedema: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: de la Cueva‐Reguera Mónica , Rodríguez‐Sanz David , Calvo‐Lobo César , Fernández‐Martínez Silvia , Martínez‐Pascual Beatriz , Robledo‐Do‐Nascimento Yolanda , Blanco‐Morales María , Romero‐Morales Carlos
Published: June 2020

Perineal trauma (PT) may be considered as a very common injury during the childbirth. The incidence of PT was estimated in 30% to 85%, with 60% to 70% requiring suture. The present study was a prospective, single‐blinded, randomised, clinical trial carried out from January 2015 to January 2016. For this study, 49 secundigravida women diagnosed with gestational oedema were recruited and randomly divided into two groups (A and B). Group A (n = 30) received the conventional treatment plus perineal massage and group B (n = 19) the conventional treatment plus manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Visual analogue scale (VAS) and King Health's Questionnaire (KHQ) were performed to assess pain intensity and quality of life‐related with urinary incontinence (UI). Pain intensity measurements showed statistically significant differences for a decrease after 30‐weeks (P = .037), after 36‐weeks (P = .000), and at the end of puerperium (P = .014) for MLD with respect to perineal massage group. Moreover, inter‐groups repeated measures ANOVA for the values related statistically significant differences to the interaction of each applied treatment (perineal massage and MLD group, separately) over the pain intensity variable. MLD treatment reduced pain intensity with respect to perineal massage in secundigravida women with gestational oedema from 25‐weeks of gestation to the end of puerperium.
The Iron Age Urnfield Tradition of Southwestern Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Møller Niels Algreen , Harvig Lise Lock , Grundvad Bente
Published: June 2020

This study examines two urnfields, their development, burial rituals, grave goods and the cremated remains in a renewed analysis of the Danish Urnfield Tradition. The osteological investigation reveals a very high proportion of children´s graves in these communal burial sites. Individual expression and demonstration of status are muted in burial rituals adhering to strict norms, although differences between age categories show through variations in the size of a burial monument. The use of CT scans and a detailed analysis of all artefacts provide evidence of the ritualized breaking of urns and the retrieval of bones from graves. Such retrieval of bones together with the layout and development of urnfields demonstrate the importance placed on the ancestors in the Early Pre-Roman Iron Age. The inconspicuous burials, together with the incorporation of all age categories, suggest that the focus of these burial communities is on a relational rather than individual identity.
Transition of adolescents with intellectual disability from schools for learners with special educational needs: Parents views for the preparedness
Authors: Malapela Rakgadi Grace , Thupayagale‐Tshweneagae Gloria , Mashalla Yohana
Published: June 2020

Background

Studies on preparedness of parents of adolescents living with intellectual disabilities transitioning from school to adulthood are scarce in sub‐Saharan Africa. This study explored views of parents on their preparedness to handle adolescents transitioning from special schools to adulthood.

Methods

Descriptive qualitative method was used to collect views of parents of adolescents with intellectual disability on their preparedness to handle transition of their children from school into community life. Content analysis was used to analyse the data.

Findings

Twelve female and two male participants expressed concerns on lack of transition plans, adolescent's future, culture and beliefs and inadequate community support. Views of parents of younger children and those of parents of older children were similar.

Conclusion

Parents were unprepared for transition of their children from school to community life. Multidisciplinary approach including family involvement and community support is necessary to enhance the transition of adolescents with intellectual disability.
Major cluster of paediatric ‘true’ primary chilblains during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a consequence of lifestyle changes due to lockdown
Authors: Neri I. , Virdi A. , Corsini I. , Guglielmo A. , Lazzarotto T. , Gabrielli L. , Misciali C. , Patrizi A. , Lanari M.
Published: June 2020

Background

Over the last months, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, a growing number of chilblain‐like lesions were reported mainly in children and rarely in young adults. The relationship with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was postulated, often without any laboratory, instrumental or clinical confirmation. The disclosure of information about chilblain‐like lesions as a COVID‐19 manifestation in social media has created concern in children’s families and paediatricians.

Objectives

To verify whether the chilblain‐like lesions were caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

Prospective study on a case series including children who presented with acral lesions at the Pediatric Dermatology Outpatient and Pediatric Emergency Unit of the University of Bologna, from 1 April to 30 April 2020. We reported demographical, laboratory and clinical features, history of close contact with COVID‐19 patients, presence of similar skin lesions in other family members, precipitating and risk factors for chilblain onset.

Results

We evaluated eight patients (five females, three males) aged between 11 and 15 years. We excluded acute or previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with RT‐PCR nasopharyngeal swab, serum antibody levels using chemiluminescent immunoassays. Other acute infections causing purpuric lesions at the extremities were negative in all patients. Skin lesion biopsy for histological and immunohistochemical evaluation was made in two cases and was consistent with chilblain. PCR assay on skin lesion biopsy for parvovirus B19, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and SARS‐CoV‐2 was performed in a patient and resulted negative. We identified common precipitating and risk factors: physical (cold and wet extremities, low BMI), cold and wet indoor and outdoor environment, behaviours, habits and lifestyle. We therefore reached a diagnosis of primary chilblains.

Conclusions

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, a ‘cluster’ of primary chilblains developed in predisposed subjects, mainly teenagers, due to cold exposure in the lockdown period. Laboratory findings support our hypothesis, although it is also possible that an unknown infectious trigger may have contributed to the pathogenesis.
“Zooming” in the Anterior Thigh Muscle for the Diagnosis of Sarcopenia
Authors: Ata Ayşe Merve , Kara Murat , Kaymak Bayram , Özçakar Levent
Published: June 2020

See reply by Bhasin et al.
An Illustration of SARS‐CoV‐2 Dissemination Within a Skilled Nursing Facility Using Heat Maps
Authors: Blackman Carolyn , Farber Sharon , Feifer Richard A. , Mor Vincent , White Elizabeth M.
Published: June 2020

OBJECTIVES

To illustrate dissemination and asymptomatic transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) during a skilled nursing facility (SNF) outbreak.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Residents of a 150‐bed SNF.

MEASUREMENTS

Heat maps generated by the SNF's infection prevention team to track staff and resident symptoms and SARS‐CoV‐2 test results to identify infection patterns.

RESULTS

The SNF experienced a severe outbreak of SARS‐CoV‐2 early in the pandemic. The initial cluster of residents with symptoms and the first confirmed case occurred on the SNF's dementia care unit. The insufficient availability and prolonged turnaround time of testing for both residents and staff at the outset of the outbreak prevented timely and accurate identification and cohorting of cases. Despite extensive other infection control measures being in place, SARS‐CoV‐2 disseminated widely through the facility within 3 weeks of the first confirmed case, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality.

CONCLUSION

Early, rapid, universal SARS‐CoV‐2 testing of both SNF residents and staff at the outset of an outbreak and then repeatedly thereafter is critical to mitigate viral transmission. This will become even more important as states relax stay‐at‐home orders and SNF staff intermingle with communities that are increasingly mobile. Increased testing will inevitably result in more staff testing positive and having to self‐quarantine at home, meaning that states must partner with SNFs and other long‐term care providers to coordinate and support strategic staffing reserves that can supplement current frontline staff. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:2174–2178, 2020.
The ovipositor actuation mechanism of a parasitic wasp and its functional implications
Authors: van Meer Noraly M. M. E. , Cerkvenik Uroš , Schlepütz Christian M. , van Leeuwen Johan L. , Gussekloo Sander W. S.
Published: June 2020

Parasitic wasps use specialized needle‐like structures, ovipositors, to drill into substrates to reach hidden hosts. The external ovipositor (terebra) consists of three interconnected, sliding elements (valvulae), which are moved reciprocally during insertion. This presumably reduces the required pushing force on the terebra and limits the risk of damage whilst probing. Although this is an important mechanism, it is still not completely understood how the actuation of the valvulae is achieved, and it has only been studied with the ovipositor in rest position. Additionally, very little is known about the magnitude of the forces generated during probing. We used synchrotron X‐ray microtomography to reconstruct the actuation mechanism of the parasitic wasp Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Braconidae) in four distinct phases of the probing cycle. We show that only the paired first valvulae of the terebra move independently, while the second valvula moves with the metasoma (‘abdomen’). The first valvula movements are initiated by rotation of one chitin plate (first valvifer) with respect to another such plate (second valvifer). This is achieved indirectly by muscles connecting the non‐rotating second valvifer and the abdominal ninth tergite. Contrary to previous reports, we found muscle fibres running inside the terebra, although their function remains unclear. The estimated maximal forces that can be exerted by the first valvulae are small (protraction 1.19 mN and retraction 0.874 mN), which reduces the risk of buckling, but are sufficient for successful probing. The small net forces of the valvulae on the substrate may still lead to buckling of the terebra; we show that the sheaths surrounding the valvulae prevent this by effectively increasing the diameter and second moment of area of the terebra. Our findings improve the comprehension of hymenopteran probing mechanisms, the function of the associated muscles, and the forces and damage‐limiting mechanism that are involved in drilling a slender terebra into a substrate.
Primary facial demodicosis as a health problem and aesthetic challenge: A case report
Authors: Przydatek‐Tyrajska Renata , Sędzikowska Aleksandra , Bartosik Katarzyna
Published: June 2020

Colonization of skin by Demodex mites developing as a single facial lesion with a limited range is diagnosed relatively rarely. The presence of this type of skin lesions may hinder and thus delay the diagnostic process and application of appropriate treatment. The persistent cosmetic defect on the face is extremely onerous/embarrassing to the patient and impedes normal functioning. Describe a case of atypical presentation of primary facial demodicosis and its successful treatment. We present a case of a 38‐year‐old patient who consulted an aesthetic medicine doctor about a skin lesion, that is, erythematous‐papular lesion with single pustules persisting for more than half a year around the right eye corner and below the lower eyelid. Previous topical antibiotic treatment has proved ineffective. Diagnosis was targeted at detection of Demodex spp. invasion, which yielded a positive result. Targeted therapy with 1% topical ivermectin was implemented. Complete resolution of the skin lesions was observed after 8.5 weeks of the treatment with no further recurrence. In the case of limited scaly erythematous‐papular skin lesions with single pustules, Demodex mites should be considered as an etiological factor or one of the factors in the case of a mixed‐etiology lesion. A delayed diagnosis of visible lesions on facial skin has a negative impact on patient's well‐being and normal functioning. As diagnosis of primary demodicosis is underestimated, knowledge about this dermatosis and its clinical manifestations should be disseminated among cosmetologists and doctors of various specialties.
WELFARE AS EQUITY EQUIVALENTS
Authors: Berger Loïc , Emmerling Johannes
Published: June 2020

Equity (or, its counterpart, inequity) plays a fundamental role in the evaluation of social welfare in different dimensions. In this paper, we revisit the concept of inequity – in the sense of unequal distributions – across individuals, time, and states of the world using a unified framework that generalizes the standard expected discounted utilitarianism approach. We propose a general measure of welfare as equity equivalents and a corresponding inequity index. We show that allowing for different attitudes toward inequity across different dimensions covers a scope of possible inequity preferences with different interpretations. We then prove that the order of aggregation across the different dimensions matters for welfare evaluations. Finally, we show that many of the welfare‐theoretical approaches recently developed in the literature can be interpreted as special cases of this general framework.
Haemodynamics of primary aldosteronism associated with adrenocortical adenoma: insights from bioimpedance cardiography measurements
Authors: Mulè G. , Geraci G. , Carollo C. , Cottone S.
Published: June 2020

Click here to see the Original article by Choudhary et al.
Sex‐Related Differences in the Effects of Sports‐Related Concussion: A Review
Authors: Koerte Inga K. , Schultz Vivian , Sydnor Valerie J. , Howell David R. , Guenette Jeffrey P. , Dennis Emily , Kochsiek Janna , Kaufmann David , Sollmann Nico , Mondello Stefania , Shenton Martha E. , Lin Alexander P.
Published: June 2020

Sports‐related concussion is a serious health challenge, and females are at higher risk of sustaining a sports‐related concussion compared to males. Although there are many studies that investigate outcomes following concussion, females remain an understudied population, despite representing a large proportion of the organized sports community. In this review, we provide a summary of studies that investigate sex‐related differences in outcome following sports‐related concussion. Moreover, we provide an introduction to the methods used to study sex‐related differences after sports‐related concussion, including common clinical and cognitive measures, neuroimaging techniques, as well as biomarkers. A literature search inclusive of articles published to March 2020 was performed using PubMed. The studies were reviewed and discussed with regard to the methods used. Findings from these studies remain mixed with regard to the effect of sex on clinical symptoms, concussion‐related alterations in brain structure and function, and recovery trajectories. Nonetheless, there is initial evidence to suggest that sex‐related differences following concussion are important to consider in efforts to develop objective biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of concussion. Additional studies on this topic are, however, clearly needed to improve our understanding of sex‐related differences following concussion, as well as to understand their neurobiological underpinnings. Such studies will help pave the way toward more personalized clinical management and treatment of sports‐related concussion.
Effects of honey types and heating treatment on the textural, thermal, microstructural, and chemical properties of glutinous rice flour gels
Authors: Seow Eng‐Keng , Tan Thuan‐Chew , Lee Lai Kuan , Easa Azhar Mat
Published: June 2020

Hardening issue in starch‐based products that arises during storage, is ascribed to the long‐term starch retrogradation which involves the recrystallisation of amylopectin. Present study aimed to delay storage hardening with the addition of high diastase honey bee honey (HBH) and low diastase kelulut bee honey (KBH) into glutinous rice flour (GRF) gels. As compared to KBH, retardation of texture deterioration by HBH was more prominent as evidenced by the significantly (p < .05) lowest hardness and rate of hardening of GRF gel added with HBH (honeygel) throughout the 7‐day storage. Heated honey and sugar solution did not reduce gel hardness that gel weakening was associated to the naturally occurring diastase in raw honey. Hence, only conventional GRF gel (congel), GRF gel added with KBH (kelugel) and honeygel were assessed for intrinsic viscosity, thermal, microstructural and chemical properties. The results were substantiated by the significantly (p < .05) lowest intrinsic viscosity (62.93 mL/g) and thermal enthalpy (333.7 J/g) of honeygel. A weak gel network structure was illustrated in honeygel with the significantly (p < .05) highest pore diameter (125.27 μm). In conclusion, the GRF gel has successfully demonstrated the potential of honey diastase in inhibiting the long‐term retrogradation which could solve the industrial real problem.
Learning Novel Word Meanings: An ERP Study on Lexical Consolidation in Monolingual, Inexperienced Foreign Language Learners
Authors: Liu Yushuang , van Hell Janet G.
Published: June 2020

Novel word learning and consolidation was studied in inexperienced language learners, to conceptually replicate and extend a similar study in experienced learners by Bakker, Takashima, Van Hell, Janzen, and McQueen (2015). Participants learned definitions for novel words on Day 1 and for another set of novel words on Day 2. Brain potentials collected in a semantic relatedness task revealed that learned words elicited a late positive component (LPC) priming effect after 24 hours but not on the day of learning. On Day 8, all previously learned words elicited LPC priming effects, but failed to modulate the N400. While LPC modulation emerged immediately after learning in the previous study of experienced learners, novel word meanings were found lexicalized only on Day 2 for inexperienced learners. Together, the findings suggest that novel word meaning lexicalization is gradual, and that prior language learning experience speeds up the process.
Robust risk aggregation with neural networks
Authors: Eckstein Stephan , Kupper Michael , Pohl Mathias
Published: June 2020

We consider settings in which the distribution of a multivariate random variable is partly ambiguous. We assume the ambiguity lies on the level of the dependence structure, and that the marginal distributions are known. Furthermore, a current best guess for the distribution, called reference measure, is available. We work with the set of distributions that are both close to the given reference measure in a transportation distance (e.g., the Wasserstein distance), and additionally have the correct marginal structure. The goal is to find upper and lower bounds for integrals of interest with respect to distributions in this set. The described problem appears naturally in the context of risk aggregation. When aggregating different risks, the marginal distributions of these risks are known and the task is to quantify their joint effect on a given system. This is typically done by applying a meaningful risk measure to the sum of the individual risks. For this purpose, the stochastic interdependencies between the risks need to be specified. In practice, the models of this dependence structure are however subject to relatively high model ambiguity. The contribution of this paper is twofold: First, we derive a dual representation of the considered problem and prove that strong duality holds. Second, we propose a generally applicable and computationally feasible method, which relies on neural networks, in order to numerically solve the derived dual problem. The latter method is tested on a number of toy examples, before it is finally applied to perform robust risk aggregation in a real‐world instance.
Barriers to healthy lifestyle behaviors in Australian nursing students: A qualitative study
Authors: Thwaite Tanya L. , Heidke Penny , Williams Susan L. , Vandelanotte Corneel , Rebar Amanda L. , Khalesi Saman
Published: June 2020

Studying at university is stressful, which can lead to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. This study aimed to explore perceived reasons and barriers preventing Australian nursing students from engaging in a healthy lifestyle and strategies to overcome barriers. Fifty‐four bachelor of nursing students participated in seven focus groups between July and November 2018. Participants defined healthy lifestyle behaviors as eating well; regular physical activity; regular water consumption; limiting alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine; good sleep quality; stress management and relaxation; and regular social interaction and support. They identified individual (lack of motivation, existing bad habits, lack of knowledge), environmental (time, finances, limited access to healthy food and physical activity resources), and psychosocial (competing priorities, increased learning cognitive load, lack of social interaction and support, compassion fatigue, and shift work) barriers preventing healthy lifestyle. Participants proposed several individual and system‐related strategies to overcome barriers. Despite portraying a comprehensive understanding of healthy lifestyle behaviors, students reported finding difficulty in attaining healthy lifestyles. Strategies proposed by students may inform targeted interventions aiming to increase overall health of students, reduce attrition rates, and promote workforce retention post‐graduation.
GmVTL1a is an iron transporter on the symbiosome membrane of soybean with an important role in nitrogen fixation
Authors: Brear Ella M. , Bedon Frank , Gavrin Aleksandr , Kryvoruchko Igor S. , Torres‐Jerez Ivone , Udvardi Michael K. , Day David A. , Smith Penelope M. C.
Published: June 2020

Legumes establish symbiotic relationships with soil bacteria (rhizobia), housed in nodules on roots. The plant supplies carbon substrates and other nutrients to the bacteria in exchange for fixed nitrogen. The exchange occurs across a plant‐derived symbiosome membrane (SM), which encloses rhizobia to form a symbiosome. Iron supplied by the plant is crucial for rhizobial enzyme nitrogenase that catalyses nitrogen fixation, but the SM iron transporter has not been identified.

We use yeast complementation, real‐time PCR and proteomics to study putative soybean (Glycine max) iron transporters GmVTL1a and GmVTL1b and have characterized the role of GmVTL1a using complementation in plant mutants, hairy root transformation and microscopy.

GmVTL1a and GmVTL1b are members of the vacuolar iron transporter family and homologous to Lotus japonicus SEN1 (LjSEN1), which is essential for nitrogen fixation. GmVTL1a expression is enhanced in nodule infected cells and both proteins are localized to the SM. GmVTL1a transports iron in yeast and restores nitrogen fixation when expressed in the Ljsen1 mutant. Three GmVTL1a amino acid substitutions that block nitrogen fixation in Ljsen1 plants reduce iron transport in yeast.

We conclude GmVTL1a is responsible for transport of iron across the SM to bacteroids and plays a crucial role in the nitrogen‐fixing symbiosis.
SeedGerm: a cost‐effective phenotyping platform for automated seed imaging and machine‐learning based phenotypic analysis of crop seed germination
Authors: Colmer Joshua , O'Neill Carmel M. , Wells Rachel , Bostrom Aaron , Reynolds Daniel , Websdale Danny , Shiralagi Gagan , Lu Wei , Lou Qiaojun , Le Cornu Thomas , Ball Joshua , Renema Jim , Flores Andaluz Gema , Benjamins Rene , Penfield Steven , Zhou Ji
Published: June 2020

Efficient seed germination and establishment are important traits for field and glasshouse crops. Large‐scale germination experiments are laborious and prone to observer errors, leading to the necessity for automated methods. We experimented with five crop species, including tomato, pepper, Brassica, barley, and maize, and concluded an approach for large‐scale germination scoring.

Here, we present the SeedGerm system, which combines cost‐effective hardware and open‐source software for seed germination experiments, automated seed imaging, and machine‐learning based phenotypic analysis. The software can process multiple image series simultaneously and produce reliable analysis of germination‐ and establishment‐related traits, in both comma‐separated values (CSV) and processed images (PNG) formats.

In this article, we describe the hardware and software design in detail. We also demonstrate that SeedGerm could match specialists’ scoring of radicle emergence. Germination curves were produced based on seed‐level germination timing and rates rather than a fitted curve. In particular, by scoring germination across a diverse panel of Brassica napus varieties, SeedGerm implicates a gene important in abscisic acid (ABA) signalling in seeds.

We compared SeedGerm with existing methods and concluded that it could have wide utilities in large‐scale seed phenotyping and testing, for both research and routine seed technology applications.
Can palatal splint improve stability of segmental Le Fort I osteotomies?
Authors: Parizotto Julianna Oliveira Lima , Borsato Karina Tostes , Peixoto Adriano Porto , Bianchi Jonas , Cassano Daniel Serra , Gonçalves João Roberto
Published: June 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of a palatal splint on stability in multi‐segment maxillary osteotomies.

Setting and Sample Population

Retrospective series of fifty‐one adult patients, consecutively operated with bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) and three‐piece maxillary osteotomies, divided according to the use of a palatal splint (Group 1, n = 30) or no palatal splint (Group 2, n = 21).

Materials and Methods

Maxillary surgical casts (T1) and post‐retention casts (T2), taken at least six months after discontinuation of orthodontic retention, were digitized (MicroScribe‐3DX), measured and compared. Fifty‐one landmarks were identified on the maxillary, transverse dimension changes and arch length were calculated. Longitudinal changes in all measurements were assessed by t test.

Results

Post‐surgical transverse instability in group 1 ranged from 0.3 ± 0.4 to −1.3 ± 0.2 mm and was statistically significantly smaller than in group 2 that ranged from −1.0 ± 0.3 to −2.5 ± 0.5 mm.

Conclusions

The use of a palatal splint after segmental Le Fort I maxillary osteotomy improved transverse stability in the posterior region. The post‐surgical transverse instability occurred only between canine gingival points and thus suggesting no clinical relevance.
COVID‐19 pandemic and Zagreb earthquakes as stressors in patients with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Vrbanović Ema , Alajbeg Iva Z. , Alajbeg Ivan
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate stress effect of COVID‐19 pandemic and Zagreb earthquakes on symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

Materials and Methods

One hundred and two previously diagnosed TMD patients were contacted by email to participate in an online survey about impact of those events on current and/or new symptoms, perceived stress, anxiety and symptom intensity in time‐points at the baseline, following pandemic and following earthquake. We compared data between earthquake‐affected and non‐affected respondents.

Results

Response rate was 79.4%. Effects stress had on deterioration of symptoms were significantly different between earthquake‐affected and non‐affected (p = .024). In earthquake‐affected, numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) scores significantly increased between baseline and after COVID‐19 (p > .001) and between baseline and after earthquakes (p > .05). However, scores insignificantly dropped from COVID‐19 to after earthquakes time‐points. In earthquake‐affected, positive correlation was found between impact of COVID‐19 on stress and NPRS (p < .001) and between earthquakes’ impact on stress and NPRS (p < .001). Earthquake‐affected respondents reported significantly more new behavioral habits when compared to non‐affected (p = .048).

Conclusions

A series of stressful events do not necessarily have a cumulative effect, but are likely to have a complex interaction (e.g., acute stress might trigger the protective mechanisms), which could have decreased pain scores after the earthquakes.
The ECG Belt for CRT response trial: Design and clinical protocol
Authors: Rickard John , Jackson Kevin , Biffi Mauro , Vernooy Kevin , Bank Alan , Cerkvenik Jeff , Ghosh Subham , Gold Michael R.
Published: June 2020

The ECG Belt for CRT response trial is designed to test the hypothesis that in patients traditionally less likely to respond to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), an individualized approach utilizing the electrocardiogram (ECG) Belt to guide lead placement, vector selection, and device programming is superior to current standard of care. The ECG Belt is a noninvasive mapping technology designed to measure beat by beat electrical activation of the left ventricle by utilizing unipolar measurements from multiple ECG electrodes on the body surface. The ECG Belt for CRT response trial is a multicenter, prospective, randomized, investigational pre‐market research study conducted at 48 centers in the United States, Canada, and Europe and will randomize approximately 400 subjects. The trial has three arms (enrollment will be 2:1:1, respectively): utilization of the Belt to guide implant as well as postimplant programming, utilizing the Belt to guide postimplant programming alone, and a non‐Belt control arm. AdaptivCRT will be an option in the treatment arm but not the control arms. The primary endpoint is change in left ventricular end‐systolic volume between preimplant and at 6 months. This paper describes the design and analytic plan for the trial.
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome in a child with interleukin‐17 inhibitor treatment for psoriasis
Authors: Sánchez Martín María , Amores Hernández Irene , Argumánez García David , Silva Hernández Mariano , De Lucas Laguna Raúl , Aracil Santos Francisco Javier , López López Rosario , de Ceano‐Vivas La Calle María
Published: June 2020

A 6‐year‐old girl presented with fever, skin rash, anuria, and conjunctivitis that rapidly progressed to toxic shock syndrome. Following hospital discharge, she developed a staphylococcal abscess on the lower extremity. She had recently received the first two doses of the interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) inhibitor secukinumab for resistant plaque psoriasis. IL‐17 is known to be essential in host defense against Staphylococcus aureus. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) associated with an IL‐17 inhibitor.
Differences in rate and medical indication of caesarean section between Germany and Japan
Authors: Fröhlich Matthias , Koga Chie , Bührer Christoph , Mori Chisato , Yamamoto Midori , Sakurai Kenichi , Hinkson Larry ,   Japan Environment, Children's Study Group
Published: June 2020

Background

There are growing concerns about the increasing rate of caesarean section (CS) worldwide. Various strategies have been implemented to reduce the proportion of CS to a reasonable level. Most research on medical indications for CS focuses on nationwide evaluations. Comparative research between different countries is sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in the rate and indications for CS between Japan and Germany in 2012 and 2013.

Methods

Comparison of the overall rate and medical indications for CS in two cohort studies from Germany and Japan. We used data from the German Perinatal Survey and the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS).

Results

We analyzed data of 1 335 150 participants from the German perinatal survey and of 62 533 participants from JECS and found significant differences between the two countries in CS rate (30.6% vs 20.6%) and main medical indications: cephalopelvic disproportion (3.2% vs 1.3%; OR: 2.4 [95% CI: 2.2–2.6]), fetal distress (7.3% vs 2.3%; OR: 3.4 [95%‐CI: 3.2–3.6]), and past uterine surgery/repeat CS (8.4% vs 8.8%; OR: 0.9 [95%‐CI: 0.9–1]).

Conclusion

There are differences in the rate and medical indications for CS between Germany and Japan at the population level. Fetal distress was identified as a medical indication for CS more often Germany than in Japan. Considering the substantial diagnostic uncertainty of electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) as the major indicator for fetal distress, it would seem to be reasonable to rethink CS decision algorithms.
The Symbolic Power of the State: Inheritance Disputes and Litigants’ Judicial Trajectories in Cotonou
Authors: Andreetta Sophie
Published: June 2020

Over the last 10 years, scholars have started to focus on African states’ bureaucracies by investigating public servants’ relationships with the state, their professional ethos, how they appropriate reforms, and the way they interact with citizens. With inheritance disputes as a focal point, this article highlights the users’ perspective—which is often overlooked—and asks how litigants in Cotonou(Benin) see the state, appropriate legal reforms, and use the courts. It shows that citizens, despite a general sense that the court system is corrupt and ineffective, continue to use it because state institutions convey a form of authority that allows them either to legitimize or challenge family decisions in inheritance matters.