bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Liver Injury in COVID‐19: Prevalence and Association with Clinical Outcomes in a Large U.S. Cohort
Authors: Phipps Meaghan M. , Barraza Luis H. , LaSota Elijah D. , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E. , Pereira Marcus R. , Zheng Elizabeth X. , Fox Alyson N. , Zucker Jason , Verna Elizabeth C.
Published: May 2020

Background and Aims

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been associated with acute liver injury (ALI) manifested by increased liver enzymes in reports worldwide. Prevalence of liver injury and associated clinical characteristics are not well defined. We aim to identify the prevalence of and risk factors for development of COVID‐19‐associated ALI in a large cohort in the United States.

Approach and Results

In this retrospective cohort study, all patients who underwent SARS‐CoV‐2 testing at three hospitals in the NewYork‐Presbyterian network were assessed. Of 3,381 patients, 2,273 tested positive and had higher initial and peak alanine aminotransferase (ALT) than those who tested negative. ALI was categorized as mild if ALT was greater than the upper limit of normal (ULN) but <2 times ULN, moderate if ALT was between 2 and 5 times the ULN, and severe if ALT was >5 times the ULN. Among patients who tested positive, 45% had mild, 21% moderate, and 6.4% severe liver injury (SLI). In multivariable analysis, severe ALI was significantly associated with elevated inflammatory markers, including ferritin (odds ratio [OR], 2.40; P < 0.001) and interleukin‐6 (OR, 1.45; P = 0.009). Patients with SLI had a more severe clinical course, including higher rates of intensive care unit admission (69%), intubation (65%), renal replacement therapy (RRT; 33%), and mortality (42%). In multivariable analysis, peak ALT was significantly associated with death or discharge to hospice (OR, 1.14; P = 0.044), controlling for age, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, intubation, and RRT.

Conclusions

ALI is common in patients who test positive for SARS‐CoV‐2, but is most often mild. However, among the 6.4% of patients with SLI, a severe disease course should be anticipated.
Whole genome copy number analysis in search of new prognostic biomarkers in first line treatment of mantle cell lymphoma. A study by the LYSA group
Authors: Le Bris Yannick , Magrangeas Florence , Moreau Anne , Chiron David , Guérin‐Charbonnel Catherine , Theisen Olivier , Pichon Olivier , Canioni Danielle , Burroni Barbara , Maisonneuve Hervé , Thieblemont Catherine , Oberic Lucie , Gyan Emmanuel , Pellat‐Deceunynck Catherine , Hermine Olivier , Delfau‐Larue Marie‐Hélène , Tessoulin Benoît , Béné Marie‐Christine , Minvielle Stéphane , Le Gouill Steven
Published: May 2020

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by the t(11;14)(q13;q32) CCND1/IGH translocation. This lymphoma is however extremely heterogeneous in terms of molecular alterations. Moreover, the course of the disease can vary greatly between indolent forms with slow progression and aggressive conditions rapidly pejorative. The identification of early markers allowing to predict individual patients outcome has however been unsuccessful so far. The LyMa trial treated homogeneously a cohort of young MCL patients. This appeared as a good opportunity to search for biomarkers of response to therapy. DNA extracted from diagnostic paraffin‐embedded lymph node biopsies from 100 patients with newly diagnosed MCL, homogeneously treated in this prospective clinical trial, were investigated for copy number alterations and copy neutral loss of heterozygosity using the Oncoscan SNP‐array scanning the whole genome. An independent confirmatory cohort was used to strengthen the possibly relevant anomalies observed. Here we describe the recurrent anomalies identified with this technique. Deletions of 17p(TP53) and 9p(CDKN2A) were more frequent in refractory or early relapsing patients (10%), but had no significant impact in univariate analysis on progression‐free (PFS) or overall survival (OS). Regardless of the presence of TP53 or CDKN2A deletions, gains in 7p22 (8,5%) were associated with better PFS in univariate but not in multivariate analysis including MCL International Prognostic Index and treatment. Gains of 11q(CCDN1), suggesting gains of the CCND1/IGH fusion, were associated with worse OS and PFS in univariate and multivariate analyses. This worse prognosis impact was confirmed by FISH in an independent confirmatory cohort. This work, using a whole genome approach, confirms the broad genomic landscape of MCL and shows that gains of the CCND1/IGH fusion can be considered as a new prognostic structural variant. Genomic abnormalities of prognostic impact could be useful to strengthen or de‐escalate treatment schedules or choosing targeted therapies or CART‐cells.
The liability of mimicry: Implementing “global human resource management standards” in United States and Indian subsidiaries of a South Korean multinational enterprise
Authors: Chung Chul , Brewster Chris , Bozkurt Ödül
Published: May 2020

There is increasing evidence that multinational enterprises (MNEs) from less dominant economies tend to mimic and disseminate human resource management (HRM) practices sourced from a dominant economy, usually the United States, to overcome their “liabilities of origin.” However, our understanding of the specific challenges involved in the implementation of such practices by firms across different national and subsidiary contexts remains limited. Drawing on evidence from a case study of a South Korean MNE, we examine the extent to which, and ways in which, global HRM policies mimicking U.S. practices are implemented across its sales, manufacturing, and research and development subsidiaries in the United States and India. We find discernible differences in the implementation of the global policies both between the two host country sites and across the three function‐specific subsidiaries in each country, identifying a range of national and subsidiary‐specific factors that inform these variable implementation outcomes. In addition to legitimacy challenges related to the source, appropriateness, and process of transfer, we note a unique form of legitimacy challenge—“the liability of mimicry”—whereby local actors can challenge head office policies on the basis of a claim to superior expertise in the dominant practices, as a particular concern of MNEs from emerging economies.
Domestic violence amid COVID‐19
Authors: Anurudran Ashri , Yared Leah , Comrie Cameron , Harrison Katherine , Burke Thomas
Published: May 2020

This manuscript highlights the risk that shelter‐in‐place instructions during COVID‐19 places on victims of domestic violence and serves as a call‐to‐action to address this crisis.
Practical recommendations for gynecologic surgery during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Chiofalo Benito , Baiocco Ermelinda , Mancini Emanuela , Vocaturo Giuseppe , Cutillo Giuseppe , Vincenzoni Cristina , Bruni Simone , Bruno Valentina , Mancari Rosanna , Vizza Enrico
Published: May 2020

Surgery in suspected/confirmed COVID‐19 patients is a high‐risk venture. In infected patients, COVID‐19 is present in the body cavity. During surgery it could be nebulized in the spray generated by surgical instruments and could theoretically infect members of the surgical team. Nevertheless, some surgical gynecologic pathologies cannot be postponed. We present a list of the most frequent gynecologic diseases and recommendations on their surgical management during the COVID‐19 pandemic, based on expert opinion, current available information, and international scientific society recommendations to support the work of gynecologists worldwide. In brief, any kind of surgical treatment should be scrutinized and postponed if possible. Nonoperative conservative treatment including pharmacological therapies for hormone‐sensitive pathologies should be implemented. Health risk assessment by patient history and COVID‐19 test before elective surgery are pivotal to protect both patients and healthcare providers. In confirmed COVID‐19 patients or highly suspected cases, elective surgery should be postponed until full recovery.
Maternal mortality from COVID‐19 in Mexico
Authors: Lumbreras‐Marquez Mario Isaac , Campos‐Zamora Melissa , Lizaola‐Diaz de Leon Heriberto , Farber Michaela Kristina
Published: May 2020

In this study, we report a 2.3% case fatality rate among parturients with COVID‐19 in Mexico.
Ethical considerations of gene editing and genetic selection
Authors: Rothschild Jodie
Published: May 2020

For thousands of years, humans have felt the need to understand the world around them—and ultimately manipulate it to best serve their needs. There are always ethical questions to address, especially when the manipulation involves the human genome. There is currently an urgent need to actively pursue those conversations as commercial gene sequencing and editing technologies have become more accessible and affordable. This paper explores the ethical considerations of gene editing (specifically germline) and genetic selection—including the hurdles researchers will face in trying to develop new technologies into viable therapeutic options.
Helicobacter pylorieradication improved the Kyoto classification score on endoscopy
Authors: Toyoshima Osamu , Nishizawa Toshihiro , Sakitani Kosuke , Yamakawa Tadahiro , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Kinoshita Kazunori , Torii Akira , Yamada Atsuo , Suzuki Hidekazu , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: May 2020

Background and Aim

Endoscopy‐based Kyoto classification predicts the risk ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection and gastric cancer; however, the change in score followingH. pylorieradication remains unknown. We retrospectively compared the Kyoto score before and afterH. pylorieradication.

Methods

H. pylori‐positive patients who underwent baseline esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), successfulH. pylorieradication, and surveillance EGD were enrolled. The Kyoto score is a sum of scores for atrophy (Kimura‐Takemoto atrophic‐border classification none or C1: 0, C‐II or C‐III: 1, O‐I to O‐III: 2), intestinal metaplasia (none: 0, antrum: 1, corpus and antrum: 2), enlarged folds (absence: 0, presence: 1), nodularity (absence: 0, presence: 1), and diffuse redness (none: 0, mild: 1, severe: 2) and ranges from 0 to 8.

Results

Eighty‐three patients (mean age: 54.9 years; 65.1% women) were enrolled. The mean duration from successful eradication to surveillance EGD was 256 days. The Kyoto score significantly decreased from 3.90 to 2.78 followingH. pylorieradication (P < 0.001). Scores for endoscopic atrophy (from 1.43 to 1.46,P= 0.638) and endoscopic intestinal metaplasia (from 0.53 to 0.47,P= 0.543) did not change; however, there was significant improvement in the scores for enlarged folds (from 0.14 to 0.00,P= 0.002), nodularity (from 0.18 to 0.04,P= 0.002), and diffuse redness (from 1.61 to 0.82,P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The Kyoto classification score decreased followingH. pylorieradication. A decrease in the scores for enlarged folds, nodularity, and diffuse redness contributed to the decrease in Kyoto score.
Radiosynthesis, in vitro and preliminary biological evaluation of [18F]2‐amino‐4‐((2‐((3‐fluorobenzyl)oxy)benzyl)(2‐((3‐(fluoromethyl)benzyl)oxy)benzyl)amino)butanoic acid, a novel alanine serine cysteine transporter 2 inhibitor‐based positron emission tomography tracer
Authors: Baguet Tristan , Bouton Jakob , Janssens Jonas , Pauwelyn Glenn , Verhoeven Jeroen , Descamps Benedicte , Van Calenbergh Serge , Vanhove Christian , De Vos Filip
Published: May 2020

The metabolic alterations in tumors make it possible to visualize the latter by means of positron emission tomography, enabling diagnosis and providing metabolic information. The alanine serine cysteine transporter‐2 (ASCT‐2) is the main transporter of glutamine and is upregulated in several tumors. Therefore, a good positron emission tracer targeting this transport protein would have substantial value. Hence, the aim of this study is to develop a fluorine‐18‐labeled version of a V‐9302 analogue, one of the most potent inhibitors of ASCT‐2. The precursor was labeled with fluorine‐18 via a nucleophilic substitution of the corresponding benzylic bromide. The cold reference product was subjected to in vitro assays with [3H]glutamine in a PC‐3 and F98 cell line to determine the affinity for both the human and rat ASCT‐2. To evaluate the tracer potential dynamic μPET, images were acquired in a mouse xenograft model for prostate cancer. The tracer could be synthesized with an overall nondecay corrected yield of 3.66 ± 1.90%. in vitro experiments show inhibitor constants Ki of 90 and 125 μM for the PC‐3 and F98 cells, respectively. The experiments in the PC‐3 xenograft demonstrate a low uptake in the tumor tissue. We have successfully synthesized the radiotracer [18F]2‐amino‐4‐((2‐((3‐fluorobenzyl)oxy)benzyl)(2‐((3‐(fluoromethyl)benzyl)oxy)benzyl)amino)butanoic acid. in vitro experiments show a good affinity for both the human and rat ASCT‐2. However, the tracer suffers from poor in vivo tumor uptake in the PC‐3 model. Briefly, we present the first fluorine‐18‐labeled derivative of compound V‐9302, a promising novel ASCT‐2 blocker used for inhibition of tumor growth.
Mass spectrometrical and quantum‐chemical study of pentafluorophenylhydrazones
Authors: Bortňák Dušan , Pecher Daniel , Végh Daniel , Breza Martin , Mikuš Peter , Milata Viktor
Published: May 2020

Twenty‐one pentafluorphenylhydrazones have been analyzed by means of tandem mass spectrometry (ESI MS/MS) conditions to compare their fragmentations with those ones obtained from quantum‐chemical calculations of the hydrazone moiety depending on the substitution from the aldehyde site. The hydrazone N–N bond is disrupted under such conditions, and these results are in accordance with the facts that an electron‐rich particle, such as an anion and or radical in a solution, can cause this disruption and simultaneous defluorination in para‐position of the hydrazone part of the molecule.
Protective role of overexpressed MUC5AC against fibrosis in MHV‐68‐induced combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema mouse model
Authors: He Li , Feng Qian‐qian , Zhang Qiao , Zhang Bo , Wu Si‐Si , Gong Jian‐hua
Published: May 2020

Mucins have long been regarded to play a role as a barrier to prevent mucosal infections; however, some studies report that overexpression of mucins induces obstruction and inflammation of airways. We investigated whether the secretion of overexpressed mucin, mucin5ac (MUC5AC), could improve protection against pathogens. To examine the possible roles of mucin hypersecretion in augmenting host defense against disease‐promoting muco‐obstructive lung disease, a mouse model that overexpressed MUC5AC was generated. We had previously proved that murine gammaherpesvirus‐68 (MHV‐68) infection could induce emphysema in mice, which later developed into combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE). We further explored whether increased MUC5AC secretion could provide benefits against MHV‐68 induced fibrosis. We initially developed a pcDNA3.1‐MUC5AC mouse model. Next, the experimental mice were randomly divided into five groups: normal control, pcDNA3.1 control, pcDNA3.1‐MUC5AC, CPFE, and pcDNA3.1‐ MUC5AC + CPFE. Morphometric analysis of each group was performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson trichrome staining. MUC5AC levels in lung tissues were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. The airway inflammation was determined by differential cell counts of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and measurement of cytokines and chemokines in BALF by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. MUC5AC hypersecretion alone was not sufficient to drive goblet cell metaplasia to induce obvious mucus plugging and airway inflammation. However, MUC5AC overexpression served as a protective barrier against MHV‐68 virus infection in vivo. Infectivity of MHV‐68 was decreased in the pcDNA3.1‐MUC5AC + CPFE group compared with that in CPFE group. Meanwhile, a reduction of MHV‐68 virus attenuated the expressions of chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2), chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 5 (CXCL5), interleukin‐13 (IL‐13), and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), and weakened airway inflammation and fibrosis in the pcDNA3.1‐MUC5AC + CPFE group. Overexpression of MUC5AC appears to exhibit a protective role against MHV‐68 infection in mice with emphysema that subsequently developed into CPFE and to further decrease airway inflammation and fibrosis induced by MHV‐68 by decreasing the expressions of CCL2, CXCL5, IL‐13, and TGF‐β1.
Dust storm frequency change in relation to climate drivers
Authors: Modarres Reza
Published: May 2020

Climate variability and change in arid regions are important factors in controlling emission, frequency and movement of dust storms. This study provides robust statistical methods including univariate Mann‐Kendall block bootstrapping method and three bivariate trend assessment methods, Covariance Inversion Test, Covariance Sum Test and The Covariance Eigenvalue to detect trends in dust storm frequency across arid regions of Iran in relation to climate variability and trend in recent decades. In this regard, the annual number of dust storms from 25 stations in central arid and semi‐arid regions of Iran were selected. In addition, five major climatic variables including annual rainfall, annual maximum and average wind speed, annual maximum and average temperature were also collected. The univariate trend test indicates both increasing and decreasing trend in dust storm frequency and climate variables. The bivariate trend test shows a strong and statistically significant relationship between trend of climate variables and dust storm frequency for most of the stations across the region. Among climate variables, rainfall change has an inverse impact on dust storm frequency while wind speed and temperature have direct covariance structure with dust storm frequency. The wind speed also seems to be the most effective climate driver on dust storm frequency in arid regions of Iran, followed by temperature. The results also shows that local conditions that are not considered in this study may also play a significant role in dust storm emission in some parts of the region.
Dysbiosis of Gut Microbiota and Short‐Chain Fatty Acids in Acute Ischemic Stroke and the Subsequent Risk for Poor Functional Outcomes
Authors: Tan Chuhong , Wu Qiheng , Wang Huidi , Gao Xuxuan , Xu Ruoting , Cui Ziming , Zhu Jiajia , Zeng Xiuli , Zhou Hongwei , He Yan , Yin Jia
Published: May 2020

Background

The intestinal microbiota and its metabolites have been reported to play an important role in stroke. Gut microbiota–originating short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) modulate brain functions directly or indirectly through immune, endocrine, vagal, and other humoral pathways. However, relatively few investigations have evaluated the gut microbiome and SCFAs spectrum or their potential associations with stroke outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with different stroke severities.

Methods

We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing and gas chromatography to compare the fecal microbial composition and SCFA spectrum between AIS patients (n = 140) and healthy controls (n = 92). Their associations with 90‐day poor functional outcomes were evaluated by logistic regression models.

Results

We found that the intestinal microbiota distinguished AIS patients from healthy controls. A lack of SCFAs‐producing bacteria and a low fecal SCFAs level defined dysbiosis in AIS patients, especially those with increased stroke severity. The SCFAs levels were negatively correlated with stroke severity and prognosis. Reduced SCFAs levels, especially acetate, were associated with an increased risk of 90‐day poor functional outcomes even after adjustments.

Conclusions

Dysbiosis of SCFAs‐producing bacteria and SCFAs in AIS patients increased the subsequent risk for poor functional outcomes, indicating that SCFAs could be potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for stroke.
Development and validation of study filters for identifying controlled non‐randomized studies in PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE
Authors: Waffenschmidt Siw , Navarro‐Ruan Tamara , Hobson Nick , Hausner Elke , Sauerland Stefan , Haynes R Brian
Published: May 2020

A retrospective analysis published by the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) in 2018 concluded that no filter for non‐randomized studies (NRS) achieved sufficient sensitivity (≥92%), a precondition for comprehensive information retrieval. New NRS filters are therefore required, taking into account the challenges related to this study type. Our evaluation focused on the development of study filters for NRS with a control group (“controlled NRS”), as this study type allows the calculation of an effect size. In addition, we assumed that due to the more explicit search syntax, controlled NRS are easier to identify than non‐controlled ones, potentially resulting in better performance measures of study filters for controlled NRS. Our aim was to develop study filters for identifying controlled NRS in PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE. We developed two new search filters that can assist clinicians and researchers in identifying controlled NRS in PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE. The reference set was based on 2110 publications in Medline extracted from 271 Cochrane reviews and on 4333 irrelevant references. The first filter maximizes sensitivity (92.42%; specificity 79.67%, precision 68.49%) and should be used when a comprehensive search is needed. The second filter maximizes specificity (92.06%; precision 82.98%, sensitivity 80.94%) and should be used when a more focused search is sufficient.
Ureter Visualization With Transvaginal Ultrasound
Authors: Ong Jozarino , Leonardi, Mathew , Espada Mercedes , Stamatopoulos Nicole , Georgousopoulou Ekavi , Condous George
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the learning curve of gynecologic surgical fellows (ie, in training) to properly identify the ureters in real time while simultaneously performing and interpreting transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) examinations.

Methods

We performed a prospective study, which took place at 2 centers in Sydney, Australia, from December 2017 to December 2018. Three fellows (F1–F3), of varying prestudy ultrasound (US) experience, were recruited to participate. One hundred fifty predetermined examinations were planned. A TVUS examination was performed by the study reference standard (an expert in gynecologic US). Subsequently, the fellows performed a focused component to identify bilateral ureters, having been blinded to the patient's clinical history and reference standard findings. Immediate feedback and hands‐on teaching were provided after each of the fellow's evaluations were complete. To evaluate the number of scans needed to gain competency, the cumulative summation test for the learning curve was used.

Results

A total of 150 examinations were performed on 145 patients. One patient had a single ureter, and 1 patient had US evidence of hydroureter. The cumulative summation test for the learning curve for bilateral ureter identification showed that F1 did not reach competency by 50 TVUS examinations, whereas F2 and F3 required 41 and 31 TVUS examinations to reach competency, respectively.

Conclusions

Contrary to other studies on the topic, this study suggests that although it is feasible for surgical fellows to learn TVUS identification of bilateral ureters, not all fellows can reach competency during a program based on a predefined number of scans. We advocate for an individualized, competency‐based medical education model in learning US for identifying the ureters.
Lung Ultrasound Pattern in Healthy Infants During the First 6 Months of Life
Authors: Buonsenso Danilo , Soldati Gino , Curatola Antonietta , Morello Rosa , De Rose Cristina , Vacca Maria Eugenia , Lazzareschi Ilaria , Musolino Anna Maria , Valentini Piero
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Lung ultrasound (LUS) has gained a primary role in the diagnosis and management of pleuropulmonary disorders in pediatric practice. However, normal and pathologic patterns are translated from adult studies and have never been specifically studied in children, particularly in infants. This was a prospective observational pilot study aiming to define the normal LUS pattern in healthy infants during the first 6 months of life.

Methods

We recruited healthy neonates at 7 to 10 days of life, and these were followed until the sixth month of life (times: 7–10 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months). We excluded neonates with a gestational age before 33 weeks and neonates with cardiac or lung abnormalities or diseases, immune deficiencies, metabolic or genetic conditions, and acute or chronic respiratory diseases. A LUS evaluation was performed by a single certified pediatrician. The chest wall was examined in 18 areas, addressing A‐lines, short and long B‐lines, pleural abnormalities, and subpleural consolidations.

Results

Thirty‐seven neonates were enrolled and followed until the sixth month of life, 27 (73%) of whom were born at term (≥37 weeks) and 10 (27%) of whom were born preterm (33–36 weeks). Most of the patients at 7 to 10 days showed multiple B‐lines (long and short) with a progressive normalization toward a normal A pattern at 6 months (P < .00001; 95% confidence interval, 13.75–23.24). No infants showed subpleural consolidations or pleural abnormalities.

Conclusions

This study has implications for the interpretation of LUS during the first 6 months of life. Most healthy infants show a diffuse pattern of vertical artifacts (B‐lines), and the LUS pattern tends to be similar to the physiologic pattern (A‐lines) after the sixth month of life. The only pathologic LUS findings were pleural irregularities and effusion and subpleural consolidations, which have never been described in healthy infants.
Annual Pronghorn Survival of a Partially Migratory Population
Authors: Jones Paul F. , Jakes Andrew F. , Eacker Daniel R. , Hebblewhite Mark
Published: May 2020

The importance of conserving migratory populations is recognized across a variety of ungulate taxa, yet the demographic benefits of migration remain uncertain for ungulate populations that exhibit partial migration. We hypothesized that migratory pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) would experience greater survival compared to residents by moving longer distances to avoid severe winter weather and access higher quality forage. We used a Bayesian time‐to‐event approach to analyze the fates of 175 radio‐collared adult female pronghorn monitored over 8 biological years (2004–2011) in the Northern Sagebrush Steppe ecosystem. Annual survivorship of migratory pronghorn was 7% higher on average compared to residents but not statistically different. Migratory pronghorn had higher survivorship in summer and winter compared to residents, and few mortalities were observed during the short autumn and spring migration periods. Mortality risk for both movement tactics intensified under more severe winter weather; winter weather severity alone best explained annual pronghorn mortality risk. The top model predicted survival rates to decline on average by 56% over the range of observed winter climatic conditions. To minimize human impacts to pronghorn during extreme climatic events, we recommend working with transportation departments and land managers to enhance pronghorn crossings of roads and railroads, and landholders to modify fences to wildlife‐friendly standards. © 2020 The Authors.Journal of Wildlife Managementpublished by Wiley Periodicals, LLC on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Variation in Sleep Stability with Differences in Severity of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing in Children
Authors: Seo Min Young , Han Mun Soo , Jeong Yong Jun , Lee Min Kyu , Park Seongbin , Hwang Sun Jin , Lee Seung Hoon
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity and various cardiopulmonary coupling (CPC) parameters in children with OSA.

Study design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 117 children (aged 7.96 ± 3.54 years, 86 male) who underwent both full‐night polysomnography (PSG) and CPC for suspicion of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). We analyzed the association between various CPC and PSG findings.

Results

The apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was negatively correlated with high frequency coupling (HFC, r = −0.374, P < .001) and very low frequency coupling (VLFC, r = −0.192, P = .038) and positively correlated with low frequency coupling (LFC, r = 0.503, P < .001), elevated low frequency coupling (e‐LFC, r = 0.475, P < .001), and narrow and broad band e‐LFC (e‐LFCNB and e‐LFCBB; r = 0.221, P = .016 and r = 0.468, P < .001, respectively). The arousal index was negatively correlated with HFC (r = − 0.466, P < .001) and positively correlated with LFC, e‐LFC, e‐LFCNB, and e‐LFCBB (r = 0.543, r = 0.460, r = 0.239, and r = 0.445, respectively; all P < .001). In addition, we also found a significant difference in various CPC values according to OSA severity.

Conclusion

CPC parameters accurately reflect sleep fragmentation and OSA severity in children. Thus, we can verify objective sleep quality using CPC analysis, which is a simple method of analyzing sleep stability in children with SDB.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:435–439, 2021
Native and invasive zooplankton show differing responses to decadal‐scale increases in maximum temperatures in a large temperate river
Authors: Dexter Eric , Bollens Stephen M. , Rollwagen‐Bollens Gretchen
Published: May 2020

It has been widely proposed that increasing global temperatures will promote the geographic spread of invasive species, yet few studies have examined the effects of increasing temperatures on existing populations of invaders. Here, we examine temperature trends across a 70‐year series of daily records from the lower Columbia River (Washington and Oregon), and assess the correlation between interannual water temperature variability and the abundance of several native and invasive zooplankton species using a 12‐year series of monthly zooplankton samples from a nearby station. Our results show a clear pattern of increasing temperatures in the river, with a negative correlation between elevated late summer temperatures and the abundance of all examined native taxa, but none of the examined invasive taxa. Our study supports the hypothesis that anthropogenic climate change may promote conditions more favorable to previously established populations of invasive zooplankton species.
A TOMM40/APOE allele encoding APOE‐E3 predicts high likelihood of late‐onset Alzheimer’s disease in autopsy cases
Authors: Soyal Selma M. , Kwik Markus , Kalev Ognian , Lenz Stefan , Zara Greta , Strasser Peter , Patsch Wolfgang , Weis Serge
Published: May 2020

Background

The APOE‐ε4 allele is an established risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). TOMM40 located adjacent to APOE has also been implicated in AD but reports of TOMM40 associations with AD that are independent of APOE‐ε4 are at variance.

Methods

We investigated associations of AD with haplotypes defined by three TOMM40 and two APOE single nucleotide polymorphisms in 73 and 71 autopsy cases with intermediate and high likelihood of AD (defined by BRAAK stages <V and V‐VI), respectively, and in 150 controls without major neurodegenerative diseases.

Results

We observed eight haplotypes with a frequency >0.02. The two haplotypes encoding APOE‐E4 showed strong associations with AD that did not differ between intermediate and high likelihood AD. In contrast, a TOMM40 haplotype encoding APOE‐E3 was identified as risk haplotype of high‐ (p = .0186), but not intermediate likelihood AD (p = .7530). Furthermore, the variant allele of rs2075650 located in intron 2 of TOMM40, increased the risk of high‐, but not intermediate likelihood AD on the APOE‐ε3/ε3 background (p = .0230).

Conclusion

The striking association of TOMM40 only with high likelihood AD may explain some contrasting results for TOMM40 in clinical studies and may reflect an association with more advanced disease and/or suggest a role of TOMM40 in the pathogenesis of neurofibrillary tangles.
The stochastic critical node problem over trees
Authors: Hosteins Pierre , Scatamacchia Rosario
Published: May 2020

We tackle a stochastic version of the critical node problem (CNP) where the goal is to minimize the pairwise connectivity of a graph by attacking a subset of its nodes. In the stochastic setting considered, the outcome of attacks on nodes is uncertain. In our work, we focus on trees and demonstrate that over trees the stochastic CNP actually generalizes to the stochastic critical element detection problem where the outcome of attacks on edges is also uncertain. We prove the NP‐completeness of the decision version of the problem when connection costs are one, while its deterministic counterpart was proved to be polynomial. We then derive a nonlinear model for the considered CNP version over trees and provide a corresponding linearization based on the concept of probability chains. Moreover, given the features of the derived linear model, we devise an exact Benders decomposition (BD) approach where we solve the slave subproblems analytically. A strength of our approach is that it does not rely on any statistical approximation such as the sample average approximation, which is commonly employed in stochastic optimization. We also introduce an approximation algorithm for the problem variant with unit connection costs and unit attack costs, and a specific integer linear model for the case where all the survival probabilities of the nodes in case of an attack are equal. Our methods are capable of solving relevant instances of the problem with hundreds of nodes within 1 hour of computational time. With this work, we aim to foster research on stochastic versions of the CNP, a problem tackled mainly in deterministic contexts so far. Interestingly, we also show a successful application of the concept of probability chains for problem linearizations significantly improved by decomposition methods such as the BD.
Gain‐scheduled controller design for linear parameter varying systems subject to pole assignment
Authors: Ku Cheung‐Chieh , Chang Wen‐Jer , Yen Chih‐Yu , Chen Guan‐Wei
Published: May 2020

This paper addresses a pole‐assignment control problem for discrete‐time linear parameter varying (LPV) systems. Based on LPV modeling approach, time‐varying systems can be mathematically described via combining several linear systems and a specific weighting function. For the LPV systems, gain‐scheduled (GS) control scheme is applied to deal with stabilization problem subject to pole‐assignment constraint. Moreover, two cases of Lyapunov function are respectively employed to derive some sufficient conditions which belong to linear matrix inequality (LMI) problems. Solving those derived conditions, the corresponding GS scheduled controller can be designed such that the asymptotical stability and pole assignment of LPV systems are guaranteed. Finally, a controller problem of truck‐trailer system is used to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed design methods.
Long‐term renal prognosis and risk for hypertension after myeloablative therapies in survivors of childhood high‐risk neuroblastoma: A nationwide study
Authors: Suominen Anu , Jahnukainen Timo , Ojala Tiina H. , Sarkola Taisto , Turanlahti Maila , Saarinen‐Pihkala Ulla M. , Jahnukainen Kirsi
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma (HR NBL) treated with myeloablative regimens are reported to be at risk for cardiovascular morbidity, and this risk may be increased by impaired renal function.

Procedure

Long‐term renal function was assessed in a national cohort of 18 (age 22.4 ± 4.9 years) HR NBL survivors by plasma creatinine (P‐Cr), urea, and cystatin C (P‐Cys C) concentrations, urine albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Ambulatory blood pressure was monitored, and common carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were evaluated.

Results

No significant difference in P‐Cr, P‐Cys C, or eGFR was found between the NBL survivors and the age‐ and sex‐matched 20 controls. P‐Cys C–based eGFR (eGFRcysc) was significantly lower than the P‐Cr–based eGFRcr (97 ± 17 mL/min/1.73 m2 vs 111 ± 19 mL/min/1.73 m2, P < 0.001) among the NBL survivors. The eGFRcysc was below normal in 28%, and ACR was above normal in 22% of the NBL survivors. Abnormal blood pressure was found in 56% of the survivors, and an additional 17% were normotensive at daytime but had significant nocturnal hypertension. Both ACR and P‐Cys C were associated with nighttime diastolic hypertension.

Conclusions

Long‐term survivors of childhood HR NBL showed signs of only mild renal dysfunction associated with diastolic hypertension. Elevated ACR and P‐Cys C were the most sensitive indicators of glomerular renal dysfunction and hypertension in this patient cohort.
Polyketone nanofiber: an effective reinforcement for the development of novel UV‐curable, highly transparent and flexible polyurethane nanocomposite films
Authors: Gavande Vishal , Lee Seungjae , Im Donghyeok , Nagappan Saravanan , Ha Chang‐Sik , Lee Won‐Ki
Published: May 2020

This study deals with the fabrication of a novel polyketone nanofiber‐reinforced UV‐curable polyurethane acrylate nanocomposite. An aliphatic polyketone nanofibrous mat was proficiently prepared by electrospinning using a solvent mixture of methylene chloride and trifluoroacetic acid. The outstanding characteristics of polymer nanofibers including a small pore size, a high aspect ratio and molecular orientation and an excellent mechanical performance offer the use of nanofibers as reinforcement in making nanocomposites. We fabricated a novel highly transparent and flexible nanocomposite film based on casting, electrospinning and UV‐curing processes. This method allowed significant enhancement of the mechanical properties using a very small amount (approximately 3.5 gsm) of polyketone nanofiber. The yield strength and Young's modulus of the nanocomposite were improved by up to 61% and 60%, respectively, compared to a UV‐cured polyurethane acrylate film. The reinforcing effect of nanofibers was accomplished without sacrificing the transparency and flexibility of polyurethane acrylate. The morphologies of the nanofibers and fiber–resin interface as well as the characteristics of the nanocomposite films were also studied. The effective use of nanofibers as a reinforcement and the preparation of a nanocomposite along with its characterization in comparison to a UV‐cured polyurethane acrylate film are also discussed. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
WHIRLY2 plays a key role in mitochondria morphology, dynamics, and functionality in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Golin Serena , Negroni Yuri L. , Bennewitz Bationa , Klösgen Ralf B. , Mulisch Maria , La Rocca Nicoletta , Cantele Francesca , Vigani Gianpiero , Lo Schiavo Fiorella , Krupinska Karin , Zottini Michela
Published: May 2020

WHIRLY2 is a single‐stranded DNA binding protein associated with mitochondrial nucleoids. In the why 2‐1 mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana, a major proportion of leaf mitochondria has an aberrant structure characterized by disorganized nucleoids, reduced abundance of cristae, and a low matrix density despite the fact that the macroscopic phenotype during vegetative growth is not different from wild type. These features coincide with an impairment of the functionality and dynamics of mitochondria that have been characterized in detail in wild‐type and why 2‐1 mutant cell cultures. In contrast to the development of the vegetative parts, seed germination is compromised in the why 2‐1 mutant. In line with that, the expression level of why 2 in seeds of wild‐type plants is higher than that of why 3, whereas in adult plant no difference is found. Intriguingly, in early stages of shoots development of the why 2‐1 mutant, although not in seeds, the expression level of why 3 is enhanced. These results suggest that WHIRLY3 is a potential candidate to compensate for the lack of WHIRLY2 in the why 2‐1 mutant. Such compensation is possible only if the two proteins are localized in the same organelle. Indeed, in organello protein transport experiments using intact mitochondria and chloroplasts revealed that WHIRLY3 can be dually targeted into both, chloroplasts and mitochondria. Together, these data indicate that the alterations of mitochondria nucleoids are tightly linked to alterations of mitochondria morphology and functionality. This is even more evident in those phases of plant life when mitochondrial activity is particularly high, such as seed germination. Moreover, our results indicate that the differential expression of why 2 and why 3 predetermines the functional replacement of WHIRLY2 by WHIRLY3, which is restricted though to the vegetative parts of the plant.
Usability, acceptability, and feasibility of the Implementation of Infant Pain Practice Change (ImPaC) Resource
Authors: Bueno Mariana , Stevens Bonnie , Rao Megha , Riahi Shirine , Lanese Alexa , Li Shelly‐Anne ,   The CIHR ImPaC Resource Team
Published: May 2020

The Implementation of Infant Pain Practice (ImPaC) Resource is an eHealth tool designed to support infant pain practice change and ultimately enhance pain outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine users' perspectives on usability, acceptability, and feasibility of the ImPaC Resource. A descriptive prospective mixed‐methods quality improvement study was conducted at a pediatric hospital in Canada. Individual “think aloud” interviews were conducted in a nonclinical environment (Phase A); “near live” testing was conducted while users interacted with the Resource in clinical setting (Phase B); individual “think‐aloud” interviews were conducted in a nonclinical environment (Phase C). Outcomes included usability (System Usability Scale—SUS), acceptability (Acceptability E‐Scale—AES), and feasibility. Interview transcripts were coded per a priori themes using deductive content analysis to create a structured categorization matrix. In Phase A, 10 clinicians interacted with the Resource in individual sessions. Median SUS score was 73.75 (range 52.5‐92.5). In Phase B, four clinicians implemented the Resource in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) over 4 months. Median SUS score was 85 (82.5‐92.5), and median AES score was 24 (21‐24). In Phase C, an enhanced prototype was produced, and the same users from Phase B navigated the Resource in individual sessions. Median SUS score was 88.75 (85‐95), and median AES score was 27.5 (25‐29). Users considered the Resource as feasible for implementation, easy to navigate, engaging, intuitive, comprehensive, and evidence‐based. Users highlighted the potential transferability of the Resource to other contexts and settings. The enhanced version of the ImPaC Resource was usable, acceptable, feasible, and met users' expectations and requirements. Results lead the way for evaluation of the Resource in a nationwide cluster randomized trial including 18 NICUs. This knowledge‐rich platform is expected to enhance infant pain practices and outcomes in diverse clinical settings.
Existence of α‐mangostin conformers and effects of aprotic and protic solvents on their equilibria, UV–Vis spectra, and chemical descriptors: Density functional theory and time‐dependent density functional theory study
Authors: Kaewsud Kanthira , Ruangpornvisuti Vithaya
Published: May 2020

The physicochemical, thermodynamic, spectroscopic, and electronic properties of α‐mangostin dye (1,3,6‐trihydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐2,8‐bis(3‐methyl‐2‐buten‐1‐yl)‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one) were investigated. Five conformers of the α‐mangostin dye were obtained using three different polarizable continuum model (PCM)/density functional theory (DFT) methods: wB97XD/6‐31+G(d,p), M06‐2X/6‐31+G(d,p), and B3LYP/6‐31+G(d,p). The species distribution of the five conformers in acetonitrile, water, and the gas phase was derived from the Gibbs free energy changes of their interconversion equilibria. Three dominant conformers (Conformers 2, 3, and 4) were found as coexisting species in solvents. Chemical descriptors of the three dominant conformers of the α‐mangostin in acetonitrile and water were obtained. Simulated UV–Vis spectra of the existing conformers and their mixtures in acetonitrile and water derived from the PCM/TD‐DFT calculations were in good agreement with experimental results. Because the three dominant conformers of α‐mangostin absorb light in the UV region, the application of α‐mangostin dye for UV protection is suggested. The performance of the three dominant α‐mangostin conformers in dye sensitized solar cells was also investigated.
Degradation of PFOA with a nanosecond‐pulsed plasma gas–liquid flowing film reactor
Authors: Bulusu Radha K. M. , Wandell Robert J. , Zhang Zhiming , Farahani Meysam , Tang Youneng , Locke Bruce R.
Published: May 2020

A continuous gas–liquid flowing film reactor with a nanosecond‐pulsed power supply was utilized for the degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as assessed by fluoride (F−) formation. PFOA, 50 mg/L, dissolved in deionized water was supplied at 2 ml/min with an argon carrier gas. The liquid phase was analyzed for F− using ion chromatography. The power supply pulse frequency (f) was varied between 0.25‐ and 10‐kHz using a constant 16‐kV input voltage and 40‐ns pulse width. The highest F− production rate (), 1.57 × 10−8 mol/s, occurred at 5 kHz whereas the highest efficiency of F− production (), 9.12 × 10−9 mol/J, was found at 0.25 kHz.
Influence of flooding period and seed burial depth on Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) seed germination
Authors: Franca Lucas X , Dodds Darrin M , Reynolds Daniel B , Bond Jason A , Mills Anthony , Catchot Angus L , Peterson Daniel G
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Flooding throughout fall and winter months is an effective practice for rice (Oryza sativa L.) straw decomposition, soil seedbank depletion, and waterfowl habitat in Mississippi. Nevertheless, limited research is available regarding the effects of fall–winter flooding and seed burial depth on Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) seed germination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of flooding period and seed burial depth on A. palmeri seed damage and germination in three different soil textures in Mississippi.

RESULTS

Amaranthus palmeri seed damage was greater when seeds were buried in sandy loam compared to silt loam soil textures. An interaction between flooding period and seed burial depth was present for A. palmeri seed germination. Flooding periods of 1‐month (at 0 and 15 cm burial depth) and 2 months (at 0 cm burial depth) provided similar A. palmeri seed germination compared to no‐flooding (at 0 cm burial depth). In addition, flooding periods of 3, 4, and 5 months reduced A. palmeri seed germination by 10, 10 and 14 percentage points at 0 cm burial depth, and 36, 40, and 41 percentage points when seeds were buried at 15 cm, respectively, across all soil textures.

CONCLUSION

This research demonstrates that flooding for 3, 4, and 5‐months throughout fall and winter is an effective cultural practice to increase soil seedbank depletion through reduced germination potential to help manage herbicide‐resistant A. palmeri populations in sandy loam, silt, and silt loam soil textures. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry