bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of blood tests in screening for metabolic disorders in kidney stone disease
Authors: Eyre Katie S. , Lewis Francesca , Cui Helen , Grout Emily , Mihai Radu , Turney Benjamin W. , Howles Sarah A.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To determine the clinical utility of blood tests as a screening tool for metabolic abnormalities in patients with kidney stone disease.

Subjects and Methods

Clinical and biochemical data from 709 patients attending the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for assessment and treatment of kidney stones were prospectively collected between April 2011 and February 2017. Data were analysed to determine the utility of serum calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), urate, chloride, bicarbonate, potassium and phosphate assays in screening for primary hyperparathyroidism, normocalcaemic hyperparathyroidism, hyperuricosuria, distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) and hypercalciuria.

Results

An elevated serum calcium level was detected in 2.3% of patients. Further investigations prompted by this finding resulted in a diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism in 0.2% of men and 4.6% of women for whom serum calcium was recorded. An elevated serum PTH level in the absence of hypercalcaemia was detected in 15.1% of patients. Of these patients, 74.6% were vitamin D‐insufficient; no patients were diagnosed with normocalcaemic hyperparathyroidism. Hyperuricosuria was present in 21.6% of patients and hypercalciuria in 47.1%. Hyperuricaemia was not associated with hyperuricosuria, nor was hypophosphataemia associated with hypercalciuria. No patient was highlighted as being at risk of dRTA using serum chloride and bicarbonate as screening tests.

Conclusion

This study indicates that individuals presenting with renal calculi should undergo metabolic screening with a serum calcium measurement alone. Use of additional blood tests to screen for metabolic disorders is not cost‐effective and may provide false reassurance that metabolic abnormalities are not present. A full metabolic assessment with 24‐h urine collection should be undertaken in recurrent stone formers and in those at high risk of future stone disease to identify potentially treatable metabolic abnormalities.
Meta‐analysis of retroperitoneal vs transperitoneal laparoscopic and robot‐assisted pyeloplasty for the management of pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction
Authors: Chua Michael E. , Ming Jessica M. , Kim Jin Kyu , Milford Karen L. , Silangcruz Jan Michael , Ren Lily , Rickard Mandy , Lorenzo Armando J.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To determine differences in perioperative outcomes between retroperitoneal and transperitoneal approaches for laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) to manage pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) through a meta‐analysis of comparative studies.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in January 2020. Comparative studies were evaluated according to Cochrane Collaboration recommendations. Assessed outcomes included success and complication rates, conversion to open surgery, operative time (OT), length of hospital stay (LOS), estimated blood loss (EBL), analgesic requirements, regular diet resumption, and drain duration. Relative risk (RR) and standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extrapolated. Subgroup analyses were performed according to study design and techniques. International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number: CRD42020163303.

Results

A total of 18 studies describing 2007 cases were included. Overall pooled effect estimates did not show statistically significant differences between the approaches with regards to success rate (RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.97, 1.01), complications (RR 1.09; 95% CI 0.82, 1.45), OT (SMD 0.61; 95% CI −0.04, 1.26), LOS (SMD −0.30; 95% CI −0.63, 0.04), EBL (SMD −0.53; 95% CI −1.26, 0.21), or analgesic requirements (SMD −0.51; 95% CI −1.23, 0.21). Compared to the transperitoneal approach, retroperitoneal LP had a higher conversion rate (RR 2.40; 95% CI 1.23, 4.66); however, patients resumed diets earlier (SMD −2.49; 95% CI −4.17, −0.82) and had shorter drain duration (SMD −0.31; 95% CI −0.57, −0.05).

Conclusion

The evidence suggests that there are no significant differences in success rate, OT and complications between transperitoneal and retroperitoneal LP. Conversion rates are higher with the retroperitoneal approach; however, return to diet occurs faster and drain duration is shorter when compared to the transperitoneal approach.
Reduction of stent‐associated morbidity by minimizing stent material: a prospective, randomized, single‐blind superiority trial assessing a customized ‘suture stent’
Authors: Betschart Patrick , Piller Alberto , Zumstein Valentin , Schmid Hans‐Peter , Engeler Daniel S. , Güsewell Sabine , Pratsinis Manolis , Abt Dominik
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To compare a customized 'suture stent' with a standard ureteric stent regarding stent‐related symptoms, safety and efficacy.

Materials and Methods

Patients with urolithiasis located proximal to the iliac vessel crossing, requiring stenting in preparation for secondary ureterorenoscopy (URS) were randomized to standard ureteric stenting or a suture stent. Secondary ureterorenoscopy was performed 2–6 weeks later. The Ureteral Stent Symptoms Questionnaire (USSQ) was completed after 1 week, on the day before URS and 2–6 weeks after stent removal. Stent efficacy and safety were systematically assessed.

Results

A total of 88 patients were included in the analysis. The median (range) suture stent length was 10 (5–25) cm vs 26 cm for standard stents. Operation time was longer for insertion of the suture stent (24.0 vs 14.5 min; P < 0.001). Patients with a suture stent had a significantly lower USSQ urinary symptoms score 1 week after stent insertion, adjusted for baseline symptoms by subtracting scores from the final visit without indwelling stent (mean 7.1 vs 13.7, difference −6.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] −3.4 to −9.8; P < 0.001). Prior to secondary URS (after 2–6 weeks), baseline‐adjusted urinary symptoms (mean 4.7 vs 12.2, difference −7.5, 95% CI −4.5 to −10.4; P < 0.001) and pain subscores (11.5 vs 17.6, difference −6.1, 95% CI −0.7 to −11.6; P = 0.004) were significantly lower in the suture stent group. All other USSQ subscores showed no significant differences. Adverse events occurred in 15 patients and were similarly frequent in the two groups. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding ureteric access during secondary URS.

Conclusion

Replacement of the distal part of ureteric stents by a suture can reduce stent‐associated symptoms without restrictions regarding secondary stone removal or safety.
Long‐term effects of a toddler‐focused caries prevention programme among Northwestern US tribal children: The TOTS‐to‐Tweens study
Authors: Smith Nicole Holdaway , Lutz Tam , Maupomé Gerardo , Lapidus Jodi , Jimenez Candice , Janis Maxine , Schwarz Eli , Becker Thomas
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We sought to determine whether American Indian tribe‐based interventions that successfully prevented toddler dental caries in a 2005 cohort study (the Toddler Overweight and Tooth Decay Prevention Study, or TOTS) influenced the prevalence of dental caries in children ages 11 to 13 in the same communities ten years later (the TOTS‐to‐Tweens study).

Methods

We recruited original TOTS participants and conducted school‐ and community‐based dental screenings at tribal communities that received family plus community‐wide interventions (F + CW), community interventions only (CW) or were control communities. We also enrolled children who did not participate in TOTS, but were exposed to CW interventions or to the control environment. Trained clinicians examined children's teeth and recorded whether each tooth was decayed, missing or filled (DMFT). We calculated DMFT scores for each child and evaluated differences in DMFT incidence rate ratios (IRR) and components of DMFT by intervention group.

Results

We observed lower age‐ and sex‐adjusted DMFT scores among F + CW children (a mean of 2.1 DMFT; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4‐2.7) and among CW children (2.2; 95% CI: 1.9‐2.6), than control children (3.0; 95% CI: 2.3‐3.7). The F + CW group had 32% lower DMFT scores than control children (IRR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.46‐1.01), and CW children had 26% lower DMFT scores than control (IRR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.55‐1.00). The proportion of children with filled teeth was higher in control than intervention communities (37.9% in F + CW, 47.1% in CW, and 67.1% in control, P = .002).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest modest yet significant long‐term effects of interventions that prevented toddler dental caries on the DMFT scores of tweens evaluated ten years later. Further study of effective interventions and their sustainability is clearly warranted among tribal children, who remain at high risk for dental caries.
National patterns in paediatric hospital admissions for dental extractions in England
Authors: Broomhead Tom , Rodd Helen D. , Baker Sarah R. , Jones Kate , Davies Gill , White Sandra , Wilcox David , Allen Zoe , Marshman Zoe
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Paediatric hospital admissions for dental extractions remain a cause for concern, despite decreasing levels of dental diseases in some areas of the country. While local investigations have taken place, little is known about national patterns, and how the relationship between the number of hospital admissions and key independent variables differs across England. The aim of this study was to examine spatial differences in the number of paediatric hospital admissions for extractions in relation to four key independent variables: dental caries, deprivation, units of dental activity and child access to dentists.

Methods

Hospital admissions data (for all dental‐related reasons) were taken from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) for England (2017/18) for children and adolescents aged up to 19 years. All data were collected at local authority level. Geographically weighted regression was used to examine associations between the number of hospital admissions and the independent variables, as well as the strength of these associations and how they differed spatially.

Results

Geographically weighted regression revealed considerable differences in the associations between the number of paediatric hospital admissions and the independent variables across England, with distinct regional clusters identified in the data. Some areas exhibited positive associations between independent variables and the number of hospital admissions, such as in Yorkshire and areas of south‐west, south‐east and north‐west England, where greater mean dmft scores were associated with greater numbers of hospital admissions. Negative associations were also found, such as in south‐west, north‐west and North East England, where higher deprivation scores were associated with lower admission numbers. Despite the patterns found, a much smaller sample of the associations between the independent variables and the number of hospital admissions was statistically significant.

Conclusions

This analysis allows for a better understanding of the spatial associations between the number of hospital admissions and key independent variables, as well as how changes to these independent variables may affect the number of admissions in each local authority. These findings should be considered in the context of the limitations of HES dataset.
Integrating biobanking minimises inbreeding and produces significant cost benefits for a threatened frog captive breeding programme
Authors: Howell Lachlan G. , Frankham Richard , Rodger John C. , Witt Ryan R. , Clulow Simon , Upton Rose M. O. , Clulow John
Published: December 2020

Captive breeding is an integral part of global conservation efforts despite high costs and adverse genetic effects associated with unavoidably small population sizes. Supplementing captive‐bred populations with biobanked founder sperm to restore genetic diversity offers a solution to colony size, costs and inbreeding, yet is rarely done, partly due to a lack of concrete examples or awareness amongst the conservation community of the huge potential benefits. We present a model system of the cost and genetic benefits achieved by incorporating biobanking into captive breeding of Oregon spotted frogs (Rana pretiosa). Backcrossing with frozen sperm every generation resulted in very large reductions in required programme expenditure compared to traditional captive breeding. This model supports the view that integration of biobanking into captive breeding would make longstanding and previously unachievable genetic diversity retention targets feasible (90% source population heterozygosity for a minimum of 100 years) at much reduced costs. This study suggests that the credibility of captive breeding as a conservation strategy would be enhanced by integrating genome storage and assisted breeding to produce far larger numbers of animals of higher genetic quality. This innovation would justify increased public and agency support for captive breeding.
Donor management using a specialized donor care facility is associated with higher organ utilization from drug overdose donors
Authors: Frye Christian Corbin , Gauthier Jason M. , Bery Amit , Gerull William D. , Morkan Deniz B. , Liu Jingxia , Shea Harrison M. , Terada Yuriko , Van Zanden Judith E. , Marklin Gary F. , Pasque Michael K. , Nava Ruben G. , Meyers Bryan F. , Patterson Alexander G. , Kozower Benjamin D. , Hachem Ramsey , Byers Derek , Witt Chad , Kulkarni Hrishikesh , Kreisel Daniel , Puri Varun
Published: December 2020

Drug overdoses have tripled in the United States over the last two decades. With the increasing demand for donor organs, one potential consequence of the opioid epidemic may be an increase in suitable donor organs. Unfortunately, organs from donors dying of drug overdose have poorer utilization rates than other groups of brain‐dead donors, largely due to physician and recipient concerns about viral disease transmission. During the study period of 2011 to 2016, drug overdose donors (DODs) account for an increasingly greater proportion of the national donor pool. We show that a novel model of donor care, known as specialized donor care facility (SDCF), is associated with an increase in organ utilization from DODs compared to the conventional model of hospital‐based donor care. This is likely related to the close relationship of the SDCF with the transplant centers, leading to improved communication and highly efficient donor care.
Im/migrant Farmworker Deportability Fears and Mental Health in the Trump Era: A Study of Polimigra and Contramigra in New York State
Authors: Medeiros Melanie A. , Guzmán Jennifer R.
Published: December 2020

The Trump administration’s policies have created a climate of heightened hostility in the U.S. northern borderlands that exacerbates im/migrant farmworkers’ anxieties surrounding deportation and family separation. At the same time, Trump’s enforcement initiatives have inspired resistance efforts aimed at mitigating these threats. Drawing on evidence from ethnographic research with Mexican and Guatemalan farmworkers in New York, we explore these interrelated, countervalent trends. First, we show how farmworkers’ heightened fears and social isolation since the outset of Trump’s presidency negatively impact their emotional and mental health. Second, we trace an opposing force of state‐level political shifts and local activities that may be mitigating these detrimental effects for im/migrant farmworkers. In particular, we focus on pro‐immigrant advocacy efforts in New York. We refer to this pro‐immigrant turn as contramigra, a phenomenon of intentional pushback against immigration detention and polimigra cooperation tactics between nonfederal law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
Isolation and Fear of Deportation: Intersectional Barriers to Well‐Being Among Latina Farmworkers in Southwestern Idaho
Authors: Meierotto Lisa , Castellano Rebecca L. Som , Curl Cynthia
Published: December 2020

Latina farmworkers in rural Idaho live with geographic isolation, fear of deportation, gender disparities, and income inequalities. While economic and social challenges have existed for decades, fear and isolation have become more acute during the Trump administration. Utilizing interview, survey, and focus group data, we identify multiple ways in which Latina farmworkers struggle with policy‐exacerbated isolation. We find that experiences of isolation intersect with gender disparities and economic inequalities, and this ultimately affects women’s well‐being.
Short report: Improving motor competence skills in early childhood has corollary benefits for executive function and numeracy skills
Authors: Hudson Kesha N. , Ballou Haley M. , Willoughby Michael T.
Published: December 2020

Previous studies have documented that individual differences in fine and gross motor skills are associated with executive function (EF) skills. This study used an experimental design to test whether participating in cognitively challenging motor skills activities was causally related to improvements in motor skills and two key indicators of school readiness: executive function and early numeracy skills. The motor skill program involved fine and gross motor game‐like activities that were delivered in a small group format. Activities were socially engaging and progressively challenged children based on their motor competencies. Fifty‐three preschool‐aged children participated in 16 motor skill sessions across 8 weeks. There were significant treatment effects for all outcomes, such that children in the treatment condition exhibited significant improvements in motor, EF, and early numeracy skills, compared to their peers in the waitlist control condition. Treatment effects on EF skills were stronger for inhibitory control than working memory. Improvements in numeracy were most pronounced for children with initially lower levels of ability. Motor skill‐based interventions are an ecologically valid and developmentally appropriate approach for fostering school readiness skills in early childhood.
United with Christ in the spirit: The pneumatological dimension of the doctrine of justification
Authors: Hegstad Harald
Published: December 2020

An important aspect of the consensus reached in the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification was the understanding of justification as union with Christ. From the Lutheran side, this understanding was dependent on the contributions of the Finnish school of Luther research. The Finns’ understanding of justification has been criticized for its insufficient pneumatological basis, and this criticism might also be applied to the Joint Declaration. This article points to resources in Luther's theology as well as perspectives from Pentecostal theology that might contribute to developing the pneumatological dimension of the doctrine of justification.
Surgical repair of congenital lateral luxation of the patella in an Arabian foal using a polypropylene mesh
Authors: Gustafsson K. , Hontoir F. , Sutton G. A. , Kelmer G. , Tatz A. J.
Published: December 2020

A 3‐h‐old, 40‐kg Arabian filly was referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, due to inability to stand and nurse after birth. The left stifle was oedematous and warm, and the patella was palpated lateral to the distal end of the femur. Radiographs of the left stifle confirmed the patella to be positioned laterally. The trochlear groove of the femur appeared of normal depth, and no other radiographic abnormalities were observed. The filly was leucopenic (white blood cell count 3.0 x 109/L; reference range 6.9–17.0 x 109/L) and had a normal packed cell volume [40% (RR 37–50%)] and low concentration of total serum protein [44 g/L (RR 51–78 g/L)] suggesting the filly likely suffered from failure of passive transfer. The filly was surgically treated for lateral patellar luxation by transecting the lateral parapatellar fascia, imbricating the medial parapatellar fascia and suturing a polypropylene mesh to the imbricated fascia. Post‐operative complications included dehiscence of the lateral incision, a subcutaneous abscess on the medial aspect of the stifle and synovial sepsis of the femoropatellar joint. The filly was sound at the walk 10 months after surgery, and no osseous abnormalities were noted on examination of radiographs of the left stifle at that time.
Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram to horses competing at 5‐star three‐day‐events: Comparison with performance
Authors: Dyson S. , Ellis A. D.
Published: December 2020

A Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) was previously developed to facilitate the detection of musculoskeletal pain. The objectives were to apply the RHpE during warm‐up for the dressage phase of two 5* three‐day events and to correlate the RHpE scores with subsequent performance. It was hypothesised that there would be a higher rate of failure to complete the cross‐country phase in horses which exhibited ≥7 behaviours compared with those showing <7 behaviours. The RHpE, comprising 24 behaviours, was applied for 10–12 min during warm‐up. Gait abnormalities in trot and canter were recorded. Dressage penalties, cross‐country performance, showjumping penalties and final placings were documented. Horses were categorised as those which completed cross‐country, or those which did not complete because of elimination or retirement. RHpE scores (n = 137) ranged from 0 to 9/24 (median 3 [range 0–9] for nonlame horses; median 5 [range 1–9] for horses with gait abnormalities in trot or canter). There was a moderate correlation between dressage penalty scores and the RHpE score (rho = 0.4, P<0.001, Spearman rank). Fifty‐nine per cent of horses (n = 10/17) with a RHpE score ≥7 failed to complete cross‐country, compared with 33% (n = 39/117) with a score <7. Horses that failed to complete the cross‐country phase had higher RHpE scores compared with those that completed (P = 0.04, W = 8.3, Kruskal–Wallis; pairwise comparison Bonferroni, P = 0.06). There was a significant (rho = 0.3) relationship between total RHpE score and final horse placings (n = 80, P<0.01, Spearman rank). Horses with lameness or gait abnormalities in canter had significantly higher RHpE scores (P<0.01, χ2 = 35, chi‐square test) compared with other horses. There was a strong correlation between the RHpE scores for horses which competed at both events (P<0.001, rho = 0.6, Spearman rank). The RHpE should facilitate earlier identification of horses which may benefit from diagnosis and treatment, resulting in improvement in both performance and equine welfare.
Anthropogenic forcing of fish boldness and its impacts on ecosystem structure
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu Nuo , Zhang Lai , Andersen Ken H. , Klaminder Jonatan
Published: December 2020

Modified fish behaviors in response to anthropogenic stressors, such as chemicals, microplastics, acoustic emissions and fisheries, are a debated driver of change in freshwater ecosystems and oceans. Our ability to judge the severity of observed behavioral responses is hampered by limited knowledge regarding how subtle behavior modifications in prey fish affect ecosystems. Here we show that anthropogenic stressors affecting fish boldness are not expected to cause population collapse, but rather elusive effects on fish length, population biomass, reproduction and ecosystem state shifts. We use a physiologically structured population model (three trophic levels), well fed with empirical data, to simulate how previously suggested alterations of fish boldness traits due to anthropogenic stressors affect ecosystem structure. Our results suggest that these stressors may cause ecosystem structure effects, such as skewed size distributions, reduced fish biomass and reduced reproduction success, by altering the foraging behavior of fish. However, the specific structure effects depend on where the boldness–shyness continuum change occurs and on the species‐specific life stages. The model also highlights somewhat counterintuitive effects leading to possible extinction of predators when the foraging behavior of the prey is hampered. We conclude that anthropogenic forcing of fish behavior may be a hidden mechanism behind ecosystem structure changes in both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Relative effects of anthropogenic pressures, climate, and sampling design on the structure of pollination networks at the global scale
Authors: Doré Maël , Fontaine Colin , Thébault Elisa
Published: December 2020

Pollinators provide crucial ecosystem services that underpin to wild plant reproduction and yields of insect‐pollinated crops. Understanding the relative impacts of anthropogenic pressures and climate on the structure of plant–pollinator interaction networks is vital considering ongoing global change and pollinator decline. Our ability to predict the consequences of global change for pollinator assemblages worldwide requires global syntheses, but these analytical approaches may be hindered by variable methods among studies that either invalidate comparisons or mask biological phenomena. Here we conducted a synthetic analysis that assesses the relative impact of anthropogenic pressures and climatic variability, and accounts for heterogeneity in sampling methodology to reveal network responses at the global scale. We analyzed an extensive dataset, comprising 295 networks over 123 locations all over the world, and reporting over 50,000 interactions between flowering plant species and their insect visitors. Our study revealed that anthropogenic pressures correlate with an increase in generalism in pollination networks while pollinator richness and taxonomic composition are more related to climatic variables with an increase in dipteran pollinator richness associated with cooler temperatures. The contrasting response of species richness and generalism of the plant–pollinator networks stresses the importance of considering interaction network structure alongside diversity in ecological monitoring. In addition, differences in sampling design explained more variation than anthropogenic pressures or climate on both pollination networks richness and generalism, highlighting the crucial need to report and incorporate sampling design in macroecological comparative studies of pollination networks. As a whole, our study reveals a potential human impact on pollination networks at a global scale. However, further research is needed to evaluate potential consequences of loss of specialist species and their unique ecological interactions and evolutionary pathways on the ecosystem pollination function at a global scale.
Decreasing control of precipitation on grassland spring phenology in temperate China
Authors: Fu Yongshuo H. , Zhou Xuancheng , Li Xinxi , Zhang Yaru , Geng Xiaojun , Hao Fanghua , Zhang Xuan , Hanninen Heikki , Guo Yahui , De Boeck Hans J.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Vegetation phenology is highly sensitive to climate change. The timing of spring phenology in temperate grasslands is regulated primarily by temperature and precipitation. The aim of this study was to determine whether the primary factor regulating vegetation phenology has changed under ongoing climate change and the underlying mechanisms.

Location

Temperate semi‐dry grasslands in China.

Time period

1982–2015.

Major taxa studied

Temperate grassland.

Methods

We extracted start of season (SOS) dates using five standard methods from satellite‐derived normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data and determined the primary factor regulating spring phenology using partial correlation analysis.

Results

The SOS date did not change significantly during the entire 1982–2015 study period in these semi‐dry grasslands, but interannual variability increased significantly from the first subperiod [1982–1998, 8.8 ± 1.1 days (mean ± SE)] to the second subperiod (1999–2015, 10.3 ± 1.1 days). Interestingly, we found that the primary factor regulating SOS shifted from precipitation during 1982–1998 to temperature during 1999–2015. Specifically, we found that during the first period, the SOS in 67.5% of the study area was determined by precipitation (mean partial correlation coefficient, r = 0.58 ± 0.16), but during the second period the main regulating factor in 75.0% of the study area was temperature (r = 0.61 ± 0.14).

Main conclusions

The change in the primary driver of spring phenology was attributed mainly to significant increases in preseason precipitation. Our study highlights that the response of spring phenology to climatic factors might change under ongoing climate change. This shift should be addressed in phenology models to simulate grassland phenology better, in addition to its impact on carbon and water cycles in future climate conditions.
Explaining interest group litigation in Europe: Evidence from the comparative interest group survey
Authors: Hofmann Andreas , Naurin Daniel
Published: December 2020

Litigation has long been a part of interest groups' lobbying tactics in the U.S. In Europe, by contrast, taking political conflicts to court has traditionally been viewed with skepticism. However, in the wake of an increasing judicialization of politics in Europe, litigation has also become part of the toolbox of European interest groups. Using original survey data from five European countries, we study how they use that tool. We show that European interest groups go to court somewhat less often than their American counterparts, but that the groups that do end up in court have similar characteristics. Overall, we find that the more politically active and resourceful a group is, the more likely it is to turn to the courts. However, a subset of politically active groups, one that deploys distinct outsider tactics, is more likely to use litigation than the rest. Government funding, however, reduces groups' propensity to litigate.
Responses to the COVID‐19 crisis in Ireland: From feminized to feminist
Authors: Cullen Pauline , Murphy Mary P.
Published: December 2020

In this study, we conceptualize feminist engagement with neo‐liberalism, austerity, and crisis management and analyze potential to advance a feminist “recovery” political agenda. Feminist discursive analysis of crisis and a focus on narrative enables analysis of continuity and change in feminist responses to the pandemic and exposes the nature of opportunities and constraints for mobilization on gender equality. A case study of responses to the pandemic in Ireland and empirical data in areas of care, income support and domestic violence is presented to reflect on gendered analysis of austerity and feminist responses to same, on gendered effects of COVID‐19 and feminist responses to pandemic crisis management. The case studies allow us to interrogate feminist's use of crisis to advance social transformation. We discuss whether and how feminist actors in Ireland built on learning from previous crises to generate opportunity to advance feminist demands, to break continuities by reframing old problems and to mobilize in relation to COVID‐19. We find some continuity over time, but also greater awareness of connective tissues of multiple crises, making overall strategies of feminist actors and organizations less reactive, more innovative, inclusive and independent than the previous crisis with greater potential for social transformation.
Seasonal to Decadal Variability in Focused Groundwater and Contaminant Discharge along a Channelized Stream
Authors: Tripathi Ganesh N. , Fryar Alan E. , Hampson Steven K. , Mukherjee Abhijit
Published: December 2020

Focused groundwater discharge to streams is problematic at contaminated sites because high fluxes can limit natural attenuation in the hyporheic zone. However, information on location, spatial evolution, and temporal persistence of springs in unlithified sediments over multiyear time scales is limited. We examine discharge at point (~1‐m) to reach (~300‐m) scales along a stream that intercepts trichloroethene and technetium‐99 plumes from a Superfund site. During 2011 to 2012, we seasonally monitored stream and spring flow and contaminant concentrations, along with probing streambed temperatures on a grid in winter and summer, building on prior monitoring during 1999 to 2002. Baseflow measured by both gauging and dye dilution generally increased with distance downstream, and stream and spring discharge varied seasonally, from minima in October to January to maxima in February to June. Thermal anomalies identified by probing occupied approximately 3% to 6% of the reach and typically coincided with visible springs or seeps. Locations of anomalies were similar to those identified in summer 2002, although some orifices disappeared and others emerged. Vertical groundwater fluxes calculated from probing tended to be less than net fluxes calculated from stream discharge, perhaps in part because the assumption of one‐dimensional, steady‐state flow in calculating point fluxes was simplistic. Maximum contaminant concentrations and fluxes decreased between 1999 to 2001 and 2011 to 2012 as a result of partial capture by an upgradient pump‐and‐treat system. Our findings confirm that springs in unlithified sediments can remain stationary within a few meters over decadal time scales, and seasonal variability in discharge can be greater than decadal variability.
Adolescents and young adults’ (AYA) views on their cancer knowledge prior to diagnosis: Findings from a qualitative study involving AYA receiving cancer care
Authors: Hart Ruth I. , Cowie Fiona J. , Jesudason Angela B. , Lawton Julia
Published: December 2020

Background

Cancer is rare amongst adolescents and young adults (AYA). Previous research has reported (healthy) AYA’s knowledge of risk factors and symptoms as limited, with this potentially leading to delays in help‐seeking and diagnosis.

Objectives

We explored AYA’s views on their cancer knowledge prior to diagnosis and if/how they perceived this as having affected their experiences of diagnosis and care.

Methods

We interviewed 18 AYA diagnosed with cancer (aged 16‐24 years). Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. We undertook qualitative descriptive analysis, exploring both a priori topics and emergent themes, including cancer knowledge prior to diagnosis.

Results

Adolescents and young adults characterized their knowledge of cancer and treatment prior to diagnosis and treatment initiation as limited and superficial. AYA perceived gaps in their knowledge as having profound consequences throughout their cancer journey. These included: hindering recognition of symptoms, thereby delaying help‐seeking; impeding understanding of the significance of tests and referrals; amplifying uncertainty on diagnosis; and affording poor preparation for the harsh realities of treatment.

Conclusions

Adolescents and young adults perceived their limited cancer knowledge prior to diagnosis as affecting experiences of diagnosis and initial/front‐line care. These findings prompt consideration of whether, when and how, AYA’s knowledge of cancer might be improved. Two broad approaches are discussed: universal education on AYA cancer and/or health; and targeted education (enhanced information and counselling) at and after diagnosis.

Patient or Public Contribution

Our work was informed throughout by discussions with an advisory group, whose membership included AYA treated for cancer.
Determining the origin of volcanic rocks in the mélange complex of Karangsambung based on the electrical resistivity imaging
Authors: Handayani Lina , Arisbaya Ilham , Mukti Muhammad Maruf , Sudrajat Yayat
Published: December 2020

An ENE‐WSW‐trending localized basalt‐diabase outcrop along the SE margin of Luk Ulo Mélange Complex has been suggested as intrusive rocks cut through the Paleogene Totogan and Karangsambung formations. However, the absolute dating of the volcanics is older than the inferred relative age of the sedimentary formations, hence the in‐situ intrusion theory is less likely. A subsurface imaging should delineate the possibility of the in‐situ nature of volcanic rock by looking at the continuation of the rocks to the depth. In this study, we did a subsurface imaging by electrical resistivity method. The electrical resistivity surveys were conducted at 3 (three) lines across the ENE‐WSW trend of the volcanic distribution. From those three measurements, we obtained three inversion models that present the distribution of the resistivity. We could differentiate between the high resistivity of volcanic rocks and the low resistivity of the clay‐dominated sediments. Instead of the deep‐rooted intrusions, the geometry of the volcanic rocks is concordant with the sedimentary strata. Since we do not observe any spatial continuity of the bodies, both laterally and vertically, the volcanic rocks might be part of broken intrusive rocks. Furthermore, the size and the sporadically distributed of the rocks also indicated that they are more likely as fragments during the olistostrome deposition, transported from its original location.
Modern Strategies for Time Series Regression
Authors: Clark Stephanie , Hyndman Rob J. , Pagendam Dan , Ryan Louise M.
Published: December 2020

This paper discusses several modern approaches to regression analysis involving time series data where some of the predictor variables are also indexed by time. We discuss classical statistical approaches as well as methods that have been proposed recently in the machine learning literature. The approaches are compared and contrasted, and it will be seen that there are advantages and disadvantages to most currently available approaches. There is ample room for methodological developments in this area. The work is motivated by an application involving the prediction of water levels as a function of rainfall and other climate variables in an aquifer in eastern Australia.
TGFB1 polymorphisms and TGF‐β1 plasma levels identify gastric adenocarcinoma patients with lower survival rate and disseminated disease
Authors: Juarez Ignacio , Gutierrez Alberto , Vaquero‐Yuste Christian , Molanes‐López Elisa M. , López Adela , Lasa Inmaculada , Gómez Remedios , Martin‐Villa José Manuel
Published: December 2020

TGF‐β1 is involved in tumour growth. Four TGFB1 SNPs and TGF‐β1 production by stimulated PBMC were determined in seventy‐eight gastric adenocarcinoma patients. In addition, TGF‐β1 levels were measured in the plasma of further thirty patients. rs1800471‐G/C genotype was prevalent in patients (20.7%) compared to controls (8.4%), as it also was the rs1800468 SNP‐G/A genotype in stage IV patients (20.7%) compared to stage I, II and III patients, combined (10.3%). Conversely, the T/T rs1800469 SNP‐T/T genotype was absent in the former group and present in 19.0% in the latter. Furthermore, the rs1800469‐C/rs1800470‐T (CT) haplotype was found in 15.0% of stage IV patients as compared to 3.0% of the remaining patients (3.0%) and also identifies patients with worse five‐year life expectancy (P = .03). TGF‐β1 synthesis by stimulated PBMCs was significantly lower in patients with the risk SNPs or haplotype, compared to the alternative genotype. Finally, TGF‐β1 plasma levels were lower in patients with worse life expectancy. Analysis of TGFB1 SNPs and measurement of plasma TGF‐β1 levels serves to identify patients at risk of developing a more aggressive disease.
Combined inhibition of Ref‐1 and STAT3 leads to synergistic tumour inhibition in multiple cancers using 3D and in vivo tumour co‐culture models
Authors: Caston Rachel A. , Shah Fenil , Starcher Colton L. , Wireman Randall , Babb Olivia , Grimard Michelle , McGeown Jack , Armstrong Lee , Tong Yan , Pili Roberto , Rupert Joseph , Zimmers Teresa A. , Elmi Adily N. , Pollok Karen E. , Motea Edward A. , Kelley Mark R. , Fishel Melissa L.
Published: December 2020

With a plethora of molecularly targeted agents under investigation in cancer, a clear need exists to understand which pathways can be targeted simultaneously with multiple agents to elicit a maximal killing effect on the tumour. Combination therapy provides the most promise in difficult to treat cancers such as pancreatic. Ref‐1 is a multifunctional protein with a role in redox signalling that activates transcription factors such as NF‐κB, AP‐1, HIF‐1α and STAT3. Formerly, we have demonstrated that dual targeting of Ref‐1 (redox factor‐1) and STAT3 is synergistic and decreases cell viability in pancreatic cancer cells. Data presented here extensively expands upon this work and provides further insights into the relationship of STAT3 and Ref‐1 in multiple cancer types. Using targeted small molecule inhibitors, Ref‐1 redox signalling was blocked along with STAT3 activation, and tumour growth evaluated in the presence and absence of the relevant tumour microenvironment. Our study utilized qPCR, cytotoxicity and in vivo analysis of tumour and cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAF) response to determine the synergy of Ref‐1 and STAT3 inhibitors. Overall, pancreatic tumours grown in the presence of CAFs were sensitized to the combination of STAT3 and Ref‐1 inhibition in vivo. In vitro bladder and pancreatic cancer demonstrated the most synergistic responses. By disabling both of these important pathways, this combination therapy has the capacity to hinder crosstalk between the tumour and its microenvironment, leading to improved tumour response.
Naringin attenuates cisplatin‐ and aminoglycoside‐induced hair cell injury in the zebrafish lateral line via multiple pathways
Authors: Li Ming , Liu Jingwen , Liu Dong , Duan Xuchu , Zhang Qingchen , Wang Dawei , Zheng Qingyin , Bai Xiaohui , Lu Zhiming
Published: December 2020

Exposure to ototoxic drugs is a significant cause of hearing loss that affects about 30 thousand children with potentially serious physical, social and psychological dysfunctions every year. Cisplatin (CP) and aminoglycosides are effective antineoplastic or bactericidal drugs, and their application has a high probability of ototoxicity which results from the death of hair cells (HCs). Here, we describe the therapeutic effect of the flavonoid compound naringin (Nar) against ototoxic effects of cisplatin and aminoglycosides include gentamicin (GM) and neomycin (Neo) in zebrafish HCs. Animals incubated with Nar (100‐400 μmol/L) were protected against the pernicious effects of CP (150‐250 μmol/L), GM (50‐150 μmol/L) and Neo (50‐150 μmol/L). We also provide evidence for the potential mechanism of Nar against ototoxicity, including antioxidation, anti‐apoptosis, promoting proliferation and hair cell regeneration. We found that mRNA levels of the apoptotic‐ and pyroptosis‐related genes are regulated by Nar both in vivo and in vitro. Finally, by proving that Nar does not affect the anti‐tumour efficacy of CP and antibacterial activity of aminoglycosides in vitro, we highlight its value in clinical application. In conclusion, these results unravel a novel therapeutic role for Nar as an otoprotective drug against the adverse effects of CP and aminoglycosides.
Experimental evaluation of nickel and cobalt release from tools and self‐reported prevalence of nickel and cobalt allergy in the German hairdressing trade
Authors: Symanzik C. , Skudlik C. , John S.M.
Published: December 2020

Background

Nickel release from some metal tools in the hairdressing trade has been sporadically evidenced, whereas data about cobalt release from metal tools in the hairdressing trade are lacking.

Objectives

To screen metal tools for nickel and cobalt release and to estimate the prevalence of nickel allergy and cobalt allergy in the German hairdressing trade.

Methods

Four hundred seventy‐five metal tools in the hairdressing trade were tested in three North German states with a nickel spot test for nickel release and with a cobalt spot test for cobalt release. Seventy hairdressers were surveyed with a standardized questionnaire to collect data about the tested metal tools as well as the prevalence of nickel allergy and cobalt allergy.

Results

One hundred thirty‐one of 475 metal tools (27.6%) – 60 of 60 hair clips (100%), five of five crochet hooks (100%), 24 of 40 tweezers (60.0%), 33 of 75 sectioning clips (44.0%), five of 32 straight razors (15.6%), and four of 45 tail combs (8.9%) – released nickel and 10 of 475 metal tools (2.1%) – three of 40 tweezers (7.5%), four of 60 hair clips (6.7%), one of 32 straight razors (3.1%), and two of 75 sectioning clips (2.7%) – released cobalt. Eight of 63 female hairdressers (12.7%) suffered from nickel allergy and two of 63 female hairdressers (3.2%) suffered from cobalt allergy.

Conclusions

Metal tools in the German hairdressing trade – with which a prolonged skin contact is intended – release nickel and cobalt in allergologically relevant amounts and thus should be taken into account as occupational sources of exposure to nickel and cobalt.
Professional judgement in clinical practice (part 3): A better alternative to strong evidence‐based medicine
Authors: Mugerauer Robert
Published: December 2020

Parts 1 and 2 in this series of three articles have shown that and how strong evidence‐based medicine has neither a coherent theoretical foundation nor creditable application to clinical practice. Because of its core commitment to the discredited positivist tradition it holds both a false concept of scientific knowledge and misunderstandings concerning clinical decision‐making. Strong EBM continues attempts to use flawed adjustments to recover from the unsalvageable base view. Paper three argues that a promising solution is at hand if we can manage several modes of inclusion. A modified original, moderate version of EBM continues though usually overshadowed. As definitively laid out by Sackett in the 1990s, clinical decision making is intended to be person‐centered, recognizing and integrating multiple modes of evidence and knowledge that have been marginalized: professional experience, illness narratives, and individual patients' values and preferences. Complementary resources are at hand: interpretative understanding and practice, such as philosophical anthropology, hermeneutical phenomenology, complexity theory, and phronetic practices respond to the major problems and open new possibilities. Phronesis is especially important in regard to public decision making. Within part 3 an additional tone necessarily occurs. While most of papers 1, 2, and 3 are written in the classical mode of contrasting the theoretical‐logical and empirical evidence offered by contending positions bearing on the decision making and judgement in clinical practice, a shift occurs when considerations move beyond what is possible for clinical practitioners to accomplish. A different, discontinuous level of power operates in the trans‐personal realm of instrumental policy, insurance, and hospital management practices. In this social‐economic‐political‐ethical realm what happens in clinical practice today increasingly becomes a matter of what is “done unto” clinical practitioners, of what hampers their professional action and thus care of individual patients and clients.
Case definitions for skin lesion syndromes in chinook salmon farmed in Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand
Authors: Johnston Hazel , Symonds Jane , Walker Seumas , Preece Mark , Lopez Cesar , Nowak Barbara
Published: December 2020

Skin lesions are commonly reported in farmed salmonids. Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), introduced from California USA, is the only salmonid species commercially farmed in New Zealand, although trout are cultured for release by Fish and Game New Zealand. There are several farming areas in New Zealand, including Marlborough Sounds, Canterbury and Stewart Island. While the industry has not been affected by any of the major production diseases seen internationally, skin lesions have been recorded with an increase in prevalence from 2012 onwards in the Marlborough Sounds and were associated with elevated summer mortalities on farms in 2015. Here we are proposing case definitions for different types of skin lesions for future monitoring and research. Based on our current understanding of the above skin conditions, we developed case definitions for spots, spreading spots, ulcerated spreading spots and Regular Outline Flank Ulcers defining a positive case for three study units, including individual fish, pen/unit and farm.