bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomy of the female pelvic nerves: a macroscopic study of the hypogastric plexus and their relations and variations
Authors: Aurore Valerie , Röthlisberger Raphael , Boemke Nane , Hlushchuk Ruslan , Bangerter Hannes , Bergmann Mathias , Imboden Sara , Mueller Michael D. , Eppler Elisabeth , Djonov Valentin
Published: May 2020

The autonomic nerves of the lesser pelvis are particularly prone to iatrogenic lesions due to their exposed position during manifold surgical interventions. Nevertheless, the cause of rectal and urinary incontinence or sexual dysfunctions, for example after rectal cancer resection or hysterectomy, remains largely understudied, particularly with regard to the female pelvic autonomic plexuses. This study focused on the macroscopic description of the superior hypogastric plexus, hypogastric nerves, inferior hypogastric plexus, the parasympathetic pelvic splanchnic nerves and the sympathetic fibres. Their arrangement is described in relation to commonly used surgical landmarks such as the sacral promontory, ureters, uterosacral ligaments, uterine and rectal blood vessels. Thirty‐one embalmed female pelvises from 20 formalin‐fixed and 11 Thiel‐fixed cadavers were prepared. In all cases explored, the superior hypogastric plexus was situated anterior to the bifurcation of the abdominal aorta. In 60% of specimens, it reached the sacral promontory, whereas in 40% of specimens, it continued across the pelvic brim until S1. In about 25% of the subjects, we detected an accessory hypogastric nerve, which has not been systematically described so far. It originated medially from the inferior margin of the superior hypogastric plexus and continued medially into the presacral space. The existence of an accessory hypogastric nerve was confirmed during laparoscopy and by histological examination. The inferior hypogastric plexuses formed fan‐shaped plexiform structures at the end of both hypogastric nerves, exactly at the junction of the ureter and the posterior wall of the uterine artery at the uterosacral ligament. In addition to the pelvic splanchnic nerves from S2–S4, which joined the inferior hypogastric plexus, 18% of the specimens in the present study revealed an additional pelvic splanchnic nerve originating from the S1 sacral root. In general, form, breadth and alignment of the autonomic nerves displayed large individual variations, which could also have a clinical impact on the postoperative function of the pelvic organs. The study serves as a basis for future investigations on the autonomic innervation of the female pelvic organs.
False (and Missed) Discoveries in Financial Economics
Authors: HARVEY CAMPBELL R. , LIU YAN
Published: May 2020

Multiple testing plagues many important questions in finance such as fund and factor selection. We propose a new way to calibrate both Type I and Type II errors. Next, using a double‐bootstrap method, we establish a t‐statistic hurdle that is associated with a specific false discovery rate (e.g., 5%). We also establish a hurdle that is associated with a certain acceptable ratio of misses to false discoveries (Type II error scaled by Type I error), which effectively allows for differential costs of the two types of mistakes. Evaluating current methods, we find that they lack power to detect outperforming managers.
Prenatal nicotine exposure affects cardiovascular function and growth of the developing fetus
Authors: Aoyagi Yoshimichi , Momoi Nobuo , Kanai Yuji , Go Hayato , Abe Yusaku , Miyazaki Kyohei , Tomita Yoichi , Hayashi Mariko , Endo Kisei , Mitomo Masaki , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: May 2020

Aim

Effects of nicotine on fetal hemodynamics are not well known, especially in the first trimester fetus. We investigated the acute and chronic effects of nicotine on hemodynamics in pregnant mice and their fetuses using ultrasound. Postnatal health status including growth and hemodynamics was also examined.

Methods

To investigate the acute effects of nicotine on fetal hemodynamics, we injected nicotine 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously into pregnant mice on gestational days (GD) 9.5, 11.5 and 13.5 and compared with saline‐injected group. To determine the chronic effects of nicotine on fetal hemodynamics, we administered nicotine in drinking water (0.1 mg/mL) to pregnant mice from GD 6.5 until they gave birth and compared hemodynamics with water‐administered mice.

Results

Regarding the acute effects of nicotine, we found no intergroup difference in maternal hemodynamics; however, fetal blood flow through the dorsal aorta, carotid artery and umbilical artery tended to decrease, particularly on GD 11.5. Regarding the chronic effects of nicotine, we observed no intergroup difference in maternal body weight changes and hemodynamics; however, blood flow to all fetal organs tended to be lower in the nicotine water group than in the water group with significant difference on GD 13.5. The offspring of the nicotine water group had significantly low birth weights and continued to have low body weight until 9 weeks of age. In addition, these offspring developed postnatal cardiac hypertrophy.

Conclusion

Nicotine adversely affects fetal hemodynamics acutely and chronically in early pregnancy, potentially leading to fetal tissue hypoxia, intrauterine growth restriction and adverse postnatal health effects.
Prognostic factors in women with cervical cancer stage IIIC1r treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Ryu Jung Min , Choi Yoon Seok , Bae Jin Young
Published: May 2020

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors of patients with stage IIIC1r cervical cancer who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

A total of 134 patients treated with chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer with pelvic and/or paraaortic lymph node metastasis (PALNM) were enrolled in this study. Clinical variables were investigated through review of the patients' medical records.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate in patients with stage IIICr cervical cancer was 70.5%. Age, PALNM, parametrial invasion, T stage, pelvic side wall invasion, differentiation, lymphovascular space involvement and high squamous cell carcinoma antigen level (>8 ng/mL) were prognostic factors for survival. The 5‐year OS rate of patients with stage IIIC1r was 74.5%, and that of stage IIIC2r was 38.1% (P‐value = 0.012). The 5‐year OS rate of patients with stage IIIC1r with the presence of pelvic side wall invasion was 48.3% and that in its absence was 83.0% (P‐value < 0.001). The 5‐year OS rate of patients with stage IIIC1r with the presence of parametrial invasion was 68.9% and that in its absence was 82.4% (P‐value = 0.031). In multivariable analysis via backward conditional modeling, age, PALNM and pelvic side wall invasion were independent prognostic factors for survival of stage IIICr. Age and pelvic side wall invasion were independent prognostic factors for survival of stage IIIC1r cervical cancer.

Conclusion

In stage IIICr cervical cancer, patients with PALNM, and/or pelvic side wall invasion can expect to have a poor prognosis. Particularly, pelvic side wall invasion in stage IIIC1r is an independent prognosis factor.
Contextual and Interactional Approaches to Advancing Leadership and Entrepreneurship Research
Authors: Pollack Jeffrey M. , Carr Jon C. , Corbett Andrew C. , Hoyt Crystal L. , Kellermanns Franz W. , Kirkman Bradley L. , Post Corinne
Published: May 2020

In this introductory article for the special issue of Journal of Management Studies, entitled ‘Leading Entrepreneurial Ventures: Individual and Team‐Based Perspectives’, we leverage insights in the extant literature as well as those insights developed by the authors of the four articles published in response to our call for papers. Overall, we explore multiple nuanced questions with regards to research on entrepreneurship, research on leadership, and their intersection. Our goal is to begin to help guide research on entrepreneurship and leadership, and their intersection, for the next decade.
EBV and CMV viral load in rheumatoid arthritis and their role in associated Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Sorgato Camila Carvalho , Lins‐e‐Silva Marília , Leão Jair Carneiro , Vasconcelos Luydson Richardson , Romão Tatiany Patrícia , Duarte Angela Luzia , Gueiros Luiz Alcino
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The role of viral infections in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has long been suggested, but little evidence is available.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate an association between EBV and CMV and the presence of rheumatoid arthritis and its association with Sjögren's Syndrome.

Patients and Method

A case‐control study was performed with 227 patients divided in RA (n = 99), RA/SS (n = 20), and C (n = 128). Resting salivary flow rate and Schirmer's test were performed; minor salivary gland biopsy was indicated in the case of suspected Sjögren's syndrome. CMV and EBV viral loads were quantified in peripheral blood, and their presence in glandular tissue samples was evaluated by in situ hybridization (EBV) and immunohistochemistry (CMV).

Results

EBV was more frequent in RA and RA/SS than in C (P < .000007). No correlation with clinical markers (P > .05) or between RA and RA/SS was found (P > .05). A higher number of EBV/DNA copies were found in RA (158.52 copies/μL) and RA/SS (99.24 copies/μL) (P = .739). EBV/DNA was associated with the Schirmer test (P = .0231). CMV was detected in one patient of the RA group. None of the viruses were detected in biopsies of minor salivary glands.

Conclusions

Detection of EBV/DNA in peripheral blood was associated with RA regardless of the presence of SS.
The Temporomandibular Joint: A Critical Review of Life‐Support Functions, Development, Articular Surfaces, Biomechanics and Degeneration
Authors: Roberts W. Eugene , Goodacre Charles J.
Published: May 2020

The temporomandibular joint is a highly conserved articulation because it promotes survival and propagation via the essential functions of mastication, communication, and routine mating success (dentofacial esthetics). The temporomandibular joint is a unique secondary joint formed between the endochondral temporal bone and the mandibular secondary condylar cartilage via Indian hedgehog and bone morphogenetic protein signaling that is closely related to ear development. A dynamic epigenetic environment is provided by Spry1 and Spry2 genetic induction of the lateral pterygoid and temporalis muscles. Mechanical loading of the condylar periosteum during fetal development produces a superficial layer of fibrocartilage that separates from the condyle to form the interposed temporomandibular joint disc. The articular surfaces of the condyle and fossa are dynamically modified periosteum that has healing and regenerative capability. This unique tissue is composed of a superficial fibrous layer (synovial surface) with an underlying proliferative (cambium) layer that produces a cushioning layer of fibrocartilage which subsequently forms bone. Prior to occlusion of the first primary (deciduous) molars at about 16 months, facial development is dominated by primary genetic mechanisms. After achieving posterior functional occlusion, biomechanics enhances temporomandibular joint maturation, and assumes control of facial growth, development and adaptation. Concurrently, hypothalamus control of musculoskeletal physiology shifts from insulin‐like growth factor IGF2 to IGF1, which affects bone via muscular loading (biomechanics). Three layers of temporomandibular joint fibrocartilage are resistant to heavy functional loading, but parafunctional clenching may result in degeneration that is first manifest as trabecular sclerosis of the mandibular condyle.
Registering Maxillomandibular Relation to Create a Virtual Patient Integrated with a Virtual Articulator for Complex Implant Rehabilitation: A Clinical Report
Authors: Li Junying , Chen Zhaozhao , Dong Bo , Wang Hom‐Lay , Joda Tim , Yu Haiyang
Published: May 2020

The virtual patient, a unique computer simulation of the patient's face, teeth, oral mucosa, and bone, provides an extraordinary mechanism for digital dental implant surgery planning and prosthetic design. However, the seamless registration of digital scans with functional information in the context of a virtual articulator remains a challenge. This report describes the treatment of a 47‐year‐old male with full‐mouth guided immediate implant placement and immediate loading of CAD/CAM interim prostheses. Utilizing a novel digital workflow, a multifactorial registration of the vertical dimension of occlusion, centric occlusion, and facebow record were completed digitally and paired within a digital articulator. Utilizing this innovative approach, a complex treatment plan and procedure was executed smoothly with a successful prosthetic outcome demonstrating good fit, occlusion, esthetics, and patient reported satisfaction.
Characterization of Chlorella vulgaris (Trebouxiophyceae) associated microbial communities1
Authors: Haberkorn Iris , Walser Jean‐Claude , Helisch Harald , Böcker Lukas , Belz Stefan , Schuppler Markus , Fasoulas Stefanos , Mathys Alexander
Published: May 2020

Microalgae exhibit extensive potential for counteracting imminent challenges in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and biomaterial sectors, but lack economic viability. Biotechnological systems for contamination control could advance the economic viability of microalgal feedstock, but the selection of suitable strains that sustainably promote microalgal productivity remains challenging. In this study, total diversity in phototrophic Chlorella vulgaris cultures was assessed by amplicon sequencing comparing cultures subjected to five different cultivation conditions. Overall, 12 eukaryotic and 53 prokaryotic taxa were identified; Alphaproteobacteria (36.7%) dominated the prokaryotic and C. vulgaris (97.2%) the eukaryotic community. Despite altering cultivation conditions, 2 eukaryotic and 40 prokaryotic taxa remained stably associated with C. vulgaris; diversity between systems did not significantly differ (P > 0.05). Among those, 20 cultivable taxa were isolated and identified by 16S rDNA sequencing. Subsequently, controlled co‐cultures were investigated showing stable associations of C. vulgaris with Sphingopyxis sp. and Pseudomonas sp.. Out‐competition of C. vulgaris due to ammonium or phosphate limitation was not observed, despite significantly elevated growth of Sphingopyxis sp. and Tistrella sp.. (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, C. vulgaris growth was impaired by Tistrella sp.. Hence, the study provides a selection of stable indigenous prokaryotes and eukaryotes for artificially tailoring microbial biocenoses. Following a bottom‐up approach, it provides a base for controlled co‐cultures and thus the establishment of even more complex biocenoses using interkingdom assemblages. Such assemblages can benefit from functional richness for improved nutrient utilization, as well as bacterial load control, which can enhance microalgal feedstock production through improved culture stability and productivity.
Serum creatinine levels in cases of posterior urethral valve: 29 years experience of a pediatric urology reference center
Authors: Demirkan Hasan , Yeşildal Cumhur
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study is to describe the importance of serum creatinine levels for the long‐term renal outcome in cases of posterior urethral valve.

Methods

Records of 94 patients who underwent cystoscopic valve ablation were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic variables, radiologic findings, and serum creatinine levels were recorded. Patients were grouped according to the serum creatinine levels in the first month of life. Twenty‐four patients' serum creatinine levels were found to be above 1 mg/dL in group 1 and ≤1 mg/dL in 70 patients in group 2.

Results

The initial findings of 74 patients were as follows: pyelonephritis in 24 (32.43%) patients, hydronephrosis in 20 (27.02%), and inability to urinate in 18 (24.32%). Prenatal hydronephrosis was present in 36 cases (38.29%). Of the 92 voiding cystograms, 53.26% had findings that included vesicoureteral reflux. The mean serum creatinine levels of the patients in group 1 increased above 1 mg/dL in the 2nd year, the significant difference between the two groups lasted up to 7 years of age, and no significant difference was observed at the age of 7. The mean serum creatinine levels of the patients in group 2 were observed to increase above 1 mg/dL by the 10th year.

Conclusions

In patients with posterior urethral valves, nadir creatinine, especially higher than 1 mg/dL, should be considered as high risk for end‐stage renal disease. Therefore, clinicians should improve awareness about early detection and treatment of posterior urethral valves, and these patients should be monitored as early as possible for the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Where meanings arise and how: Building on Shannon's foundations
Authors: Gallistel Charles R.
Published: May 2020

Information theory provides a quantitative conceptual framework for understanding the flow of information from the world into and through brains. It focuses our attention on the sets of possible messages a brain's anatomy and physiology enable it to receive. The meanings of the messages arise from the inferences licensed by the brain's processing of them. Different meanings arise at different levels because different representations of the input license different inferences.
The initial detection of Toscana virus in phlebotomine sandflies from Turkey
Authors: Özbel Y. , Oğuz G. , Arserim S. K. , Erişöz Kasap Ö. , Karaoglu B. , Yilmaz A. , Emanet N. , Günay F. , Hacioğlu S. , Demirok M. C. , Töz S. , Alten B. , Nalçaci M. , Özkul A. , Ergünay K.
Published: May 2020

Toscana virus (TOSV) is a prominent arthropod‐borne viral agent of human central nervous system infections occurring in the Mediterranean region. The main transmission route to susceptible individuals involves sandflies as vectors. Despite several reports revealing widespread TOSV activity in Turkey, vectors remained unidentified. A sandfly field survey was carried out in five provinces in Central, Southeast and Mediterranean Anatolia in 2017 to identify TOSV and related sandfly‐borne phleboviruses and Leishmania parasites, with evidence for circulation in the region. A total of 7136 sandfly specimens, collected via standard methods, were evaluated in 163 pools. TOSV was detected in 11 pools (6.7%), comprising Phlebotomus major sensu lato, Sergentomyia dentata and Phlebotomus papatasi species. TOSV partial L and S segment sequences were characterized, that phylogenetically clustered with local and global genotype A strains. An amino acid substitution outside the conserved motifs of the viral polymerase, also present in previous TOSV sequences in endemic regions, was observed. Leishmania tropica was detected in a single pool of Ph. sergentii (0.6%). This is the first report of TOSV in sandflies from Turkey, and this study further provides evidence for additional sandfly species with the potential to transmit
TOSV.
Self‐management recommendations for sickle cell disease: A content analysis of websites
Authors: Druye Andrews A. , Nelson Katherine , Robinson Brian
Published: May 2020

This authors report on the findings of a study designed to establish website‐based self‐management recommendations for sickle cell disease. Google and Yahoo search engines were used to search the World Wide Web. Purposive sampling was used to select 28 websites that met the inclusion criteria. Data were manually collected from health education materials and subjected to qualitative content analysis. Self‐management was conceptualized as actions involving preventive health, self‐monitoring, self‐diagnosing, and self‐treatment. The results show that the websites recommend more self‐management actions for preventive health and self‐treatment than for self‐monitoring and self‐diagnosis. Frequent oral fluid intake, limitation of overactivity, eating a healthy diet, avoiding extreme temperatures, and infections were the most common preventive health recommendations. Daily pain monitoring and general bodily inspections were the most frequent self‐monitoring recommendations. Commonly cited self‐diagnostic indicators were fever, persistent pain, enlarged spleen, and leg ulcers. The use of analgesics and nonpharmacological measures were regularly cited for self‐treatment. Most recommendations were assessed as clinically safe as they align with standards for sickle cell management. Nurses and other professionals should teach clients how to assess the credibility of websites.
Application of metabolomics to the study of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Bennet Sean M. , Keshteli Ammar H. , Bercik Premysl , Madsen Karen L. , Reed David , Vanner Stephen J.
Published: May 2020

The pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome and the detection of biomarkers of specific mechanisms and/or predictors of therapeutic response remain elusive. This roadblock reflects, in large part, the complexity and heterogeneity of the disorder. Recently, there has been growing evidence of a dietary and/or microbiome interaction with the host that may trigger symptoms in a subset of patients. While a number of techniques are available to examine these potential interactions, “omic” approaches such as metabolomics are becoming more widely used. Metabolomics measures hundreds and potentially thousands of known and unknown small molecule chemicals (metabolites) to provide a unique look into mechanisms that underlie symptom generation and potential predictors of therapeutic response. In this issue of the journal, Lee et al use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to demonstrate the value of this approach to study IBS. This review examines the use of metabolomics to better understand IBS, focusing on what has been learned to date, practical and technical considerations, its potential for future research and how the study by Lee et al have contributed to these concepts.
Pediatric donor heart allocation in the United States, 2006‐2017: Current patterns and potential for improvement
Authors: Giafaglione Jaclyn , Morrison Adam , Gowda Charitha , Gajarski Robert , Nandi Deipanjan
Published: May 2020

Objective

To understand current donor heart allocation practices for pediatric transplantation.

Background

Despite high waitlist mortality rates among pediatric patients awaiting transplant, a substantial proportion of donor hearts go unused. Analysis of UNOS match run data may identify opportunities to optimize organ utilization.

Methods

Using UNOS/OPTN data, we evaluated all match runs for pediatric (<18 years) donor hearts from 1/1/2006 to 3/31/2017. We assessed final disposition of donor hearts, reasons for donor refusal, and other match run characteristics. Variation in total offers made per organ, and refusal rates by OPOs were also evaluated.

Results

Of 7585 pediatric potential donor hearts, 2226 (29.3%) were refused. Hearts accepted underwent a median of 2 offers (IQR: 1‐5), compared to 11 (IQR: 5‐24) for refused donor hearts. Organ refusal rates decreased from 36.9% in 2006‐2009 to 22.3% in 2014‐2017 (P < .001). Reasons for refusal included quality (80.9%), size mismatch (57.5%), and known/suspected crossmatch positivity (39.1%). Among 1800 hearts deemed “poor quality” by ≥1 transplant program, less than half (46.6%) were coded “poor quality” by multiple refusing programs. Organ refusal rates ranged from 13.5% to 83.3% across OPOs, and there was no correlation between refusal rates and median number of offers made by the OPO.

Conclusion

Although more organs are being used over time, 1 in 5 available pediatric donor hearts are still discarded. The lack of donor evaluation consensus and wide variability in donor refusal rates indicates a need for standardization of donor assessment and match run processes across OPOs.
Allocative Efficiency in Online Auctions: Improving the Performance of Multiple Online Auctions Via Seek‐and‐Protect Agents
Authors: Bapna Ravi , Day Robert , Rice Sarah
Published: May 2020

Much of the prominent literature describing behavior in eBay‐like marketplaces emphasizes the successful use of “sniping” agents that wait until the last moments of an auction to bid (truthfully) on behalf of a human user. These agents fare well against “naïve” agents (typically assumed to be those who bid incrementally on the most profitable open auction) who do not get the chance to respond to the snipe‐bid placed in the final seconds. This reasoning, however, tends to ignore the effect of the poor coordination that occurs as more and more players attempt the sniping agent strategy, thereby raising prices above their minimum possible competitive equilibrium levels. Using proprietary data purchased from eBay, encompassing all bids submitted on four specific product types over a 3‐month period, we analyze the allocative efficiency, price, and bidder surplus using a software agent and compare this to the historical performance. After showing a significant amount of “money left on the table” in the historical record, we proceed to demonstrate how bidders can significantly improve their surplus (i.e., observed profit) by adopting a “seek‐and‐protect” agent. If bidders go further and implement sequential‐auction shading strategies, they can incrementally improve their surplus, but sometimes at the expense of allocative efficiency. Acknowledging that each bidder’s time window of interest is inherently unobservable, we vary the length of bidders’ consumption windows and find similar results.
Managing Mass Fatalities during COVID‐19: Lessons for Promoting Community Resilience during Global Pandemics
Authors: Entress Rebecca M. , Tyler Jenna , Sadiq Abdul‐Akeem
Published: May 2020

In the United States and around the world, COVID‐19 represents a mass fatality incident, as there are more bodies than can be handled using existing resources. Although the management and disposition of bodies is distressing and heartrending, it is a task that local, state, and federal governments must plan for and respond to collaboratively with the private sector and faith‐based community. When mass fatalities are mismanaged, there are grave emotional and mental health consequences that can delay recovery and undermine community resilience. Using insights from one author's mass fatality management research during the 2010 Haiti earthquake, this Viewpoint essay explores how mass fatalities are being managed in response to COVID‐19. Based on the researcher's findings a decade ago, it is apparent that many lessons have not been learned. The essay concludes by providing governments with practical lessons on how to manage mass fatalities to facilitate and promote community resilience.
The Effects of Governmental and Individual Predictors on COVID‐19 Protective Behaviors in China: A Path Analysis Model
Authors: Dai Bibing , Fu Di , Meng Guangteng , Liu Bingsheng , Li Qi , Liu Xun
Published: May 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has plunged the world into a crisis. To contain this crisis, it is essential to build full cooperation between the government and the public. However, it is unclear which governmental and individual factors are determinants and how they interact with protective behaviors against COVID‐19. To resolve this issue, this study builds a multiple mediation model. Findings show that government emergency public information such as detailed pandemic information and positive risk communication had greater impact on protective behaviors than rumor refutation and supplies. Moreover, governmental factors may indirectly affect protective behaviors through individual factors such as perceived efficacy, positive emotions, and risk perception. These findings suggest that systematic intervention programs for governmental factors need to be integrated with individual factors to achieve effective prevention and control of COVID‐19 among the public.
Association of bovine KISS1 single nucleotide polymorphisms with reproductive traits in Indian Cattle
Authors: Singh Umesh , Alex Rani , Kumar Sushil , Deb Rajib , Venkatesan Raja Thiruvothur , Singhal Shaily , Sengar Gyanendra Singh , Singh Rathod Bharat , Srirama Murthy Kotikalapudi , Vasant Rao Patil Nitin
Published: May 2020

Kisspeptins, a family of neuropeptide encoded by the Kiss1 gene, have emerged as crucial regulator of fertility and reproduction by regulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. The present study was aimed to identify and associate SNPs in the KISS1 gene with reproductive traits in cattle of Indian origin. DNA samples collected from 300 individual cows of three Indian dairy breeds (Gir, Kankrej and Frieswal) of cattle were used in the study. The SNPs of KISS1 gene were identified with PCR‐RFLP and sequence analysis using two sets of primer pairs. A total of 5 SNPs were identified in the targeted region of which, two were selected for screening the population and association studies. The analysis revealed that genotypes of rs442633552G>A and rs42022871C>T had a significant association with dry period. The SNP rs42022871C>T also established significant role in milk production traits, and selection of TT‐genotyped animals will improve the reproduction and production potential of the animals.
Effect of seed storing duration and sowing year on the seedling establishment of grassland species in xeric environments
Authors: Kövendi‐Jakó Anna , Szitár Katalin , Halassy Melinda , Halász Krisztián , Mojzes Andrea , Török Katalin
Published: May 2020

Theavailability of seeds of native species in many countries for grassland restoration is limited; therefore, ex situ seed banks can gain importance as a source of germplasm in the future. We tested the usability of seed accessions of the Pannon Seed Bank for reintroduction with the aim to restore sandy grassland in Hungary. Seeds of 10 native sandy grassland species were seeded in the year of collection and after one or two years of storage. The establishment was estimated by counting seedlings along seeded transects for two vegetation seasons. This study produced the first numerical estimate we know about of native sand grassland species emergence in the field. A low establishment of the tested species was found, ranging from 0.002 to 8%. Within this range, Dianthus serotinus had the highest establishment, while Festuca vaginata, which was sown as matrix species, performed only medium establishment. The short‐term storage (1 or 2 years) of seeds had no significant effect, except for F. vaginata, where seed storage had a positive effect on reintroduction success. The year of seeding had the highest influence on recruitment. Four species were found to emerge over two years instead of only the first year. Based on our results, the weak seed yield of certain years and the low supply of native seeds in the market can be mitigated by using stored seeds. It is recommended to use multi‐year, scheduled seeding to reduce the negative impacts of particularly dry years and to increase the restoration success.
Artificial Intelligence for Natural Hazards Risk Analysis: Potential, Challenges, and Research Needs
Authors: Guikema Seth
Published: May 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) methods have seen increasingly widespread use in everything from consumer products and driverless cars to fraud detection and weather forecasting. The use of AI has transformed many of these application domains. There are ongoing efforts at leveraging AI for disaster risk analysis. This article takes a critical look at the use of AI for disaster risk analysis. What is the potential? How is the use of AI in this field different from its use in nondisaster fields? What challenges need to be overcome for this potential to be realized? And, what are the potential pitfalls of an AI‐based approach for disaster risk analysis that we as a society must be cautious of?
“Opt out” or kept out? The effect of stigma, structure, selection, and sector on the labor force participation of married women in India
Authors: Datta Gupta Nabanita , Nandy Debasish , Siddhanta Suddhasil
Published: May 2020

Using the 61st and 68th rounds of National Sample Survey data, we investigate the role of stigma, the economy’s structure, potential selection bias, and sectoral differences in explaining the low labor force participation (LFP) of middle and secondary educated women in India relative to low‐ and high‐educated women (the “U‐shape”). Estimating LFP regressions on a sample of prime‐aged married women, we show that, controlling for background characteristics, if a woman’s husband works in a white‐collar job in a region with a high share of blue‐collar jobs, she is less likely to participate in the labor market (stigma). We also find a positive effect of an increase in an index of white‐collar job growth (structure) on married women’s LFP. These effects are present in both rural and urban sectors but are strongest in the rural sector. However, middle and secondary educated women are still found to have substantially lower LFP than low‐ and graduate‐educated women in both sectors. Indeed, over time, the U‐shape persists in the rural sector and deepens in the urban sector. Because unobservables are quite large in the urban sector, we use the method of instrumental variables and find an increasing return at middle levels but stagnation at higher levels.
Distribution of HLA allele frequencies in 82 Chinese individuals with coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19)
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Wei , Zhang Jingjing , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: May 2020

COVID‐19 is a respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus and is currently a global pandemic. HLA variation is associated with COVID‐19 because HLA plays a pivotal role in the immune response to pathogens. Here, 82 individuals with COVID‐19 were genotyped for HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1, ‐DRB3/4/5, ‐DQA1, ‐DQB1, ‐DPA1, and ‐DPB1 loci using next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Frequencies of the HLA‐C*07:29, C*08:01G, B*15:27, B*40:06, DRB1*04:06, and DPB1*36:01 alleles were higher, while the frequencies of the DRB1*12:02 and DPB1*04:01 alleles were lower in COVID‐19 patients than in the control population, with uncorrected statistical significance. Only HLA‐C*07:29 and B*15:27 were significant when the corrected P‐value was considered. These data suggested that some HLA alleles may be associated with the occurrence of COVID‐19.
Liposome‐encapsulated statins reduce hypertrophic scarring through topical application
Authors: Xie Ping , Dolivo David M. , Jia Shengxian , Cheng XingGuo , Salcido John , Galiano Robert D. , Hong Seok Jong , Mustoe Thomas A.
Published: May 2020

Hypertrophic scar is an important clinical problem with limited therapeutic options. Aside from their roles as 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, statins have also been demonstrated to decrease scarring by reducing connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression. However, poor penetrative ability limits their utility as topical treatments for hypertrophic scar. Here, we aim to develop novel statin formulations using liposomes to enhance dermal penetrative ability and to evaluate their efficacy against formation of hypertrophic scar utilizing our validated rabbit ear hypertrophic scar model. Liposomal simvastatin or pravastatin were compounded using a novel, flexible liposomal formulation and applied topically to rabbit ear hypertrophic scars daily from postoperation day (POD) 14 until POD 25. Scar color, including erythema and melanin, was measured using reflectance spectrophotometry on POD 28, and scar tissue was harvested for evaluation of scar elevation index as well as gene and protein expression. Human foreskin fibroblasts were also treated with statin formulations and CCN2 expression was determined by quantitative PCR. Both simvastatin and pravastatin were efficiently encapsulated in liposomes, forming nanometer‐scale particles possessing highly negative charges. Topical treatment with liposomal simvastatin and pravastatin at 6.5% concentration significantly reduced scar elevation index and decreased type I/III collagen content and myofibroblast persistence in the wound. The erythema/vascularity of scars was reduced by liposomal statin treatment, with concomitant decrease of CD31 expression as measured histologically. Expression levels of transcripts encoding CTGF, collagen I, and collagen III collagen in scar tissue were also decreased by liposomal pravastatin treatment, as were myofibroblast persistence and the type I/III collagen ratio as assessed by immunofluorescence and picrosirus red staining, respectively. Treatment of human foreskin fibroblasts with simvastatin or with liposome‐encapsulated pravastatin resulted in decreased expression of transcript encoding CTGF. Overall, our novel statin formulations encapsulated in liposomes were successfully delivered through topical application, significantly reducing hypertrophic scarring in a rabbit ear model.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Gibbs Nikki
Published: May 2020

Applied Economics and Finance (AEF) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AEF publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 7, Number 3 Ali Massoud, Sohag University, EgyptAyoub Taha Sidahmed, SIU, SudanFarhat Iqbal, University of Balochistan, PakistanHedieh Shadmani, Fairfield University, USAIulia Lupu, Victor Slavescu” Centre for Financial and Monetary Research, Romanian Academy, RomaniaKaveh Dalvand, University of Delaware, United StatesMagdalena Radulescu, University of Pitesti, RomaniaMagdalena Zioło, University of Szczecin, PolandMamdouh Abdelmoula M. Abdelsalam, Minufiya University, EgyptMohammed Al-Mahish, King Faisal University, Saudi ArabiaNana Rusadze, Akaki Tsereteli State University, GeorgiaNuno Crespo, ISCTE-IUL, PortugalPatrycja Kowalczyk-Rolczynska, Wroclaw University of Economics, PolandRajeev Rana, APB Govt. P.G. College, IndiaRamona Orastean, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, RomaniaRichard Nguyen, Alliant International University, USARomeo Victor Ionescu, Dunarea de Jos University, RomaniaRuhet Genc, Turkish-German University, TurkeyShahram Fattahi, Razi University, IranSzabolcs Blazsek, Universidad Francisco Marroquín, GuatemalaVictoria Cociug, Academy of Sciences of Moldova, MoldovaY. Saidi, M’sila University, AlgeriaZi-Yi Guo, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., USAZuzana Janko, San Francisco State University, USA    Nikki GibbsEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Applied Economics and FinanceRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://aef.redfame.com
Enhancing responsiveness of human jejunal enteroids to host and microbial stimuli
Authors: Ruan Wenly , Engevik Melinda A. , Chang‐Graham Alexandra L. , Danhof Heather A. , Goodwin Annie , Engevik Kristen A. , Shi Zhongcheng , Hall Anne , Rienzi Sara C. Di , Venable Susan , Britton Robert A. , Hyser Joseph , Versalovic James
Published: May 2020

Key points

Enteroids are a physiologically relevant model to examine the human intestine and its functions.

Previously, the measurable cytokine response of human intestinal enteroids has been limited following exposure to host or microbial pro‐inflammatory stimuli.

Modifications to enteroid culture conditions facilitated robust human cytokine responses to pro‐inflammatory stimuli.

This new human enteroid culture methodology refines the ability to study microbiome:human intestinal epithelium interactions in the laboratory.

The intestinal epithelium is the primary interface between the host, the gut microbiome and its external environment. Since the intestinal epithelium contributes to innate immunity as a first line of defence, understanding how the epithelium responds to microbial and host stimuli is an important consideration in promoting homeostasis. Human intestinal enteroids (HIEs) are primary epithelial cell cultures that can provide insights into the biology of the intestinal epithelium and innate immune responses. One potential limitation of using HIEs for innate immune studies is the relative lack of responsiveness to factors that stimulate epithelial cytokine production. We report technical refinements, including removal of extracellular antioxidants, to facilitate enhanced cytokine responses in HIEs. Using this new method, we demonstrate that HIEs have distinct cytokine profiles in response to pro‐inflammatory stimuli derived from host and microbial sources. Overall, we found that host‐derived cytokines tumour necrosis factor and interleukin‐1α stimulated reactive oxygen species and a large repertoire of cytokines. In contrast, microbial lipopolysaccharide, lipoteichoic acid and flagellin stimulated a limited number of cytokines and histamine did not stimulate the release of any cytokines. Importantly, HIE‐secreted cytokines were functionally active, as denoted by the ability of human blood‐derived neutrophil to migrate towards HIE supernatant containing interleukin‐8. These findings establish that the immune responsiveness of HIEs depends on medium composition and stimuli. By refining the experimental culture medium and creating an environment conducive to epithelial cytokine responses by human enteroids, HIEs can facilitate exploration of many experimental questions pertaining to the role of the intestinal epithelium in innate immunity.
Evaluation of PANS Methodology With Nonlinear Eddy Viscosity Closure: Flow Past a Heated Sphere
Authors: Saroha Sagar , Chakraborty Krishnendu , Sinha Sawan S. , Lakshmipathy Sunil
Published: May 2020

The partially averaged Navier–Stokes (PANS) approach has emerged as a viable scale-resolving bridging method over the last decade. Conventional PANS method, based on the linear eddy viscosity closure, overcomes the scale-resolving inadequacies of Reynolds-averaging but still suffers from limitations arising from linear constitutive modeling of turbulent stresses. Linear PANS has been evaluated in a variety of complex flow fields, including the benchmark case of flow around a sphere. In this work, the authors assess the potential of nonlinear eddy viscosity closure and further extend the evaluation of nonlinear closure in predicting thermal characteristics (besides hydrodynamics) of flow past a sphere. The presented evaluation has been performed on the basis of various surface-related and wake-related quantities. Our results are compared against available experimental and direct numerical simulation (DNS)/large eddy simulation studies. Our study shows that for the same value of the filter-control parameters, nonlinear PANS performs significantly better than linear PANS.
Closed-Loop Control of Transition by Local Dynamic Surface Modification
Authors: Rizzetta Donald P. , Visbal Miguel R. , Mishra Sandipan , Amitay Michael
Published: May 2020

Direct numerical simulations (DNSs) were carried out in order reproduce the generation and control of transition on a flat plate by means of local dynamic surface modification. The configurations and flow conditions duplicate those of previous numerical investigations, and are similar to an experimental arrangement, which employed piezoelectrically driven actuators to impart small amplitude local deformation of the plate surface. In those studies, one actuator was located in the upstream plate region, and oscillated at the most unstable frequency of 250 Hz in order to generate small disturbances, which amplified Tollmien–Schlichting instabilities. A second actuator placed downstream, was then oscillated at the same frequency, but with appropriate amplitudes in order to mitigate disturbance growth and delay the evolution of transition. Prior simulations employed an empirical process to determine optimal values of the control parameters. In the current effort, this process is replaced with a closed-loop control law. Numerical solutions are obtained to the two-dimensional and three-dimensional compressible Navier–Stokes equations, utilizing a high-fidelity numerical scheme and an implicit time-marching approach. Local surface modification of the plate is enforced via grid deformation. Results of the simulations are presented, and features of the flowfields are described. Comparisons are made between results obtained with the two control methods, and effectiveness of the closed-loop approach is evaluated.
Sound absorption by metallic foam after triaxial hydrostatic compression
Authors: Cops Mark J. , McDaniel J. Gregory , Magliula Elizabeth A. , Bamford David J. , Bliefnick Jay
Published: May 2020

An engineering method for triaxial hydrostatic compression of metallic foam is presented to preferentially alter the foam's microstructure. The method is demonstrated on an assortment of open-cell aluminum foams with varying pore size and porosity. Measurements of acoustic absorption indicate that the compressed samples absorb significantly more sound than the conventional samples of equal thickness in the test range from 0.25 to 4 kHz. The acoustic absorption trends that result from the transformation of foam microstructure in the compressed samples are a function of the initial pore size and porosity. An analysis is presented which links the microstructure properties of compressed foam samples to conventional samples, thereby providing a means to estimate acoustic absorption trends for compressed samples through use of existing models.
Place Your Bets: An Exploratory Study of Sports-Gambling Operators’ Use of Twitter for Relationship Marketing
Authors: Stadder Emily , Naraine Michael L.
Published: May 2020

Worldwide, sports gambling is a multibillion-dollar industry. Despite the industry’s size and success, little research has been conducted on sport-gambling operators (SGOs), and no research has examined their presence on social media. As such, this exploratory study aimed to examine the social media habits of SGOs through a relationship-marketing lens. To do so, 16,466 tweets were collected from the Twitter accounts of six Australian SGOs, with descriptive statistics from tweets presented and Leximancer performing automated thematic analyses. Results indicated that SGOs are discussing professionalized sport, influencers, and subbrands, as well as extensively making use of hashtags and mentions. Given these results, the strategies that SGOs are using to communicate and interact with their consumers focuses particularly on a North American professional-sport and horseracing context. This research contributes to the growing understanding of social media stakeholders in sport and provides an initial starting point for future research on SGOs given the recent legalization of sports gambling in the United States.
Serology for SARS-CoV-2: Apprehensions, opportunities, and the path forward
Authors: Bryant Juliet E. , Azman Andrew S. , Ferrari Matthew J. , Arnold Benjamin F. , Boni Maciej F. , Boum Yap , Hayford Kyla , Luquero Francisco J. , Mina Michael J. , Rodriguez-Barraquer Isabel , Wu Joseph T. , Wade Djibril , Vernet Guy , Leung Daniel T.
Published: May 2020

Defining acceptable performance characteristics for SARS-CoV-2 serological tests requires factoring in how the results will be used.
Mycobacterium abscessus Clearance by Neutrophils Is Independent of Autophagy
Authors: Pohl Kerstin , Grimm Xue A. , Caceres Silvia M. , Poch Katie R. , Rysavy Noel , Saavedra Milene , Nick Jerry A. , Malcolm Kenneth C.
Published: May 2020

Mycobacterium abscessus
, a rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacterium, is increasingly prevalent in chronic lung disease, including cystic fibrosis, and infections are characterized by neutrophil-dominated environments. However, mechanisms of immune control are poorly understood. Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic with immunomodulatory effects, is used to treat
M. abscessus
infections. Recently, inhibition of macrophage bactericidal autophagy was described for azithromycin, which could be detrimental to the host.