bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bitcoin intraday time series momentum
Authors: Shen Dehua , Urquhart Andrew , Wang Pengfei
Published: October 2021

This study examines intraday time series momentum in Bitcoin. Unlike stock markets, Bitcoin trades 24 h a day and therefore has not got a clear opening and closing period. Therefore, we use trading volume as a proxy for the market trading time and show that the first half‐hour positively predicts the last half‐hour return. We find that the first trading sessions with the highest volume or volatility are associated with the greatest predictability for intraday time series momentum. We also show that intraday momentum‐based trading yields substantial economic gains in terms of market timing and asset allocation, especially in periods of a market downturn in Bitcoin. Consistent with the finding in foreign exchange markets, our results also show that the Bitcoin intraday momentum is driven by liquidity provision rather than late‐informed trading.
“Let my hands be your hands”: Constructions of intimacy among Filipina migrants in the care of the elderly in Japan
Authors: Navallo Katrina
Published: October 2021

The activities of care are often regarded as intimate and highly dependent on personal, relational and cultural contexts of care provision. In this paper, I explore how migrant care workers who do not share in the cultural logic and norms understand and mediate the expectations of intimacy in care work with their personal meanings and values in caregiving. Through multiple in‐depth interviews with 50 Filipino care workers and 1‐month of intensive fieldwork in a long‐term care facility, this paper unpacks the meanings and negotiations of intimacy in the care work of Filipino migrants in Japan. This paper analyzes intimacy in four dimensions: spatial, cultural, corporeal, and relational. It finds that Filipina care workers understand and negotiate intimacy in the care of the elderly Japanese by embodying cultural intimacy, mediating vulnerability and maintaining boundedness, attuning with the aged body, and articulating familial care. The findings offer the possibility for transformative caring relations when migrant care workers exercise intimacy in their care of the elderly residents in the institutional setting.
Regulatory function of interferon‐inducible 44‐like for hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA in primary human hepatocytes
Authors: Nosaka Takuto , Naito Tatsushi , Murata Yosuke , Matsuda Hidetaka , Ohtani Masahiro , Hiramatsu Katsushi , Nishizawa Tsutomu , Okamoto Hiroaki , Nakamoto Yasunari
Published: October 2021

Aim

Curing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection requires elimination of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Interferon (IFN)‐γ has noncytolytic antiviral potential; however, elimination of cccDNA could not be achieved. To enhance the regulatory effect, we comprehensively analyzed the host factors associated with cccDNA amplification and IFN‐γ and IFN‐α effects using an in vitro HBV infection system showing various transcription levels.

Methods

Primary human hepatocytes were infected with HBV using genomic plasmids carrying the basic core promoter mutation A1762T/G1764A and/or the precore mutation G1896A and treated with IFN‐γ and IFN‐α. Comprehensive and functional studies involving microarray and small interfering RNA analysis revealed the host factors related to cccDNA regulation.

Results

The HBV infection system reproduced the HBV life cycle and showed various propagation levels. Microarray analysis revealed 53 genes correlated with the cccDNA levels. Of the 53 genes, expression of IFN‐induced protein 44‐like (IFI44L) was significantly upregulated by IFN‐γ and IFN‐α. The anti‐HBV effect of IFI44L is exerted regardless of IFN‐γ or IFN‐α by inhibiting the activation of nuclear factor‐κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 pathways.

Conclusions

Using the in vitro HBV infection system, an IFN‐inducible molecule, IFI44L, associated with cccDNA amplification, was identified. These results suggest an innovative molecular strategy for the regulation of HBV cccDNA by controlling a novel host factor, IFI44L.
Data practices in quality evaluation and assessment: Two universities at a glance
Authors: Raffaghelli Juliana E. , Grion Valentina , de Rossi Marina
Published: October 2021

As the debate on data in the society and in education grows the attention on data‐trace as ‘primary material’ for governance, educational quality and innovation falls under the spotlights. In this context, HEIs have been put under pressure to adopt quantitative metrics and evaluation approaches enhancing the massive collection of trace data. Nonetheless, each university overall, and the academics specifically, might respond differently to this context of innovation. The present article aims to explore data practices in two higher education institutions. Two relevant areas for the imaginaries related to data and quantification were explored: (a) evaluation of quality in teaching and learning; (b) data to support assessment. The study is based on a survey distributed to the whole university teaching staff of two institutions. Descriptive and inferential statistics comparing multivariate sample means (MANOVA) were applied to 601 responses collected. The results indicated the prevalence of institutionally consolidated data practices relative to quality teaching evaluation, with fragmentation and isolation in some emerging data practices connected to decision‐making and teaching and learning. Moreover, each of the universities revealed distinct institutional profiles which could be put in connection with the organisational culture. The results are discussed in light of the potential strategies at the institutional level, particularly regarding faculty development as means to build a visible, contextualised data culture.
Using inpatient electronic medical records to study influenza for pandemic preparedness
Authors: Fuller Candace C. , Cosgrove Austin , Sands Kenneth , Miller Karla M. , Poland Russell E. , Rosen Edward , Sorbello Alfred , Francis Henry , Orr Robert , Dutcher Sarah K. , Measer Gregory T. , Cocoros Noelle M.
Published: October 2021

Background

We assessed the ability to identify key data relevant to influenza and other respiratory virus surveillance in a large‐scale US‐based hospital electronic medical record (EMR) dataset using seasonal influenza as a use case. We describe characteristics and outcomes of hospitalized influenza cases across three seasons.

Methods

We identified patients with an influenza diagnosis between March 2017 and March 2020 in 140 US hospitals as part of the US FDA's Sentinel System. We calculated descriptive statistics on the presence of high‐risk conditions, influenza antiviral administrations, and severity endpoints.

Results

Among 5.1 million hospitalizations, we identified 29,520 hospitalizations with an influenza diagnosis; 64% were treated with an influenza antiviral within 2 days of admission, and 25% were treated >2 days after admission. Patients treated >2 days after admission had more comorbidities than patients treated within 2 days of admission. Patients never treated during hospitalization had more documentation of cardiovascular and other diseases than treated patients. We observed more severe endpoints in patients never treated (death = 3%, mechanical ventilation [MV] = 9%, intensive care unit [ICU] = 26%) or patients treated >2 days after admission (death = 2%, MV = 14%, ICU = 32%) than in patients treated earlier (treated on admission: death = 1%, MV = 5%, ICU = 23%, treated within 2 days of admission: death = 1%, MV = 7%, ICU = 27%).

Conclusions

We identified important trends in influenza severity related to treatment timing in a large inpatient dataset, laying the groundwork for the use of this and other inpatient EMR data for influenza and other respiratory virus surveillance.
Treatment and control of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors among patients with diabetes mellitus and hypertension in Inner Mongolia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bi Yanqing , Tian Zixuan , Yan Wenyan , Liu Min , Zhao Yuqian , Bao Han , Yan Tao , Zhang Nan , Xia Yuan , Zhang Xingguang
Published: October 2021

The authors assessed treatment and control of blood glucose, blood pressure (BP), and blood lipids among patients from Inner Mongolia with diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) and identified the modifiable factors associated with treatment and achievement of blood glucose, BP, and blood lipid targets. The authors used a multistage stratified cluster sampling method according to geographical location and level of economic development in Inner Mongolia. Among patients with DM and HTN, the crude rates of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) treatment and control was 30.76% and 4.73%, respectively. Crude rates of BP treatment and control were 50.81% and 8.70%, respectively. The authors found that treatment rates of HTN and DM and control rates of BP and FPG showed a gradually increasing trend with increased age. Among patients with DM and HTN, the likelihood of treatment for HTN and DM was significantly increased among participants who were older, non‐Mongolian, male, obese, smokers, and those with previous cardiovascular disease. The authors found that control of BP, FPG, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was far from optimal among study participants. Medical and health departments in Inner Mongolia should take appropriate measures to reduce the burden of DM and HTN in the population, such as by promoting and improving the quality of HTN and DM treatment to achieve control goals and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Modified conditioning regimen with chidamide and high‐dose rituximab for triple‐hit lymphoma
Authors: Kang Junnan , Zhang Yizhuo , Ding Sa , Yasheng Kalbinur , Li Yueyang , Yu Yong , Wang Yafei , Tian Chen
Published: October 2021

Triple‐hit lymphoma (THL), which is classified into high‐grade B‐cell lymphoma with rearrangements of MYC, BCL2 and BCL6, presents aggressive biological behaviour. High‐dose chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto‐HSCT) is considered to be one of the recommended treatment options. Here, we reported 3 THL patients received carmustine, etoposide, cytarabine and cyclophosphamide (BEAC) combined with chidamide and high‐dose rituximab conditioning regimen and found that this conditioning showed good efficacy and tolerance without increase of adverse events.
Cutaneous ischemia‐reperfusion injury is exacerbated by IL‐36 receptor antagonist deficiency
Authors: Tanaka Y. , Iwata Y. , Saito K. , Fukushima H. , Watanabe S. , Hasegawa Y. , Akiyama M. , Sugiura K.
Published: October 2021

Background

Loss‐of‐function homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in IL36RN, which encodes interleukin‐36 receptor antagonist (IL‐36Ra), has been implicated in the pathogenesis of skin disorders. However, the pathogenic role of IL‐36Ra in cutaneous ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury remains unclear.

Objectives

We investigated the role of IL36Ra in cutaneous I/R injury.

Methods

We examined I/R injury in Il36rn−/− mice. The area of wounds, numbers of infiltrated cells, apoptotic cells and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation were assessed. The expression levels of various genes were analysed using real‐time RT‐PCR. The expression of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), an endogenous toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 ligand, was confirmed using immunohistology, and serum HMGB1 levels were measured by ELISA. Cytokine production by stimulated cultured J774A.1 and HaCaT cells was examined.

Results

IL‐36Ra deficiency resulted in significantly delayed wound healing and increased neutrophil and macrophage infiltration into the wound tissues. Il36rn−/− mice had increased mRNA expression levels of CXCL1, CXCL2, CCL4, TNF‐α, TGF‐β, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐36γ relative to wild‐type mice. Apoptosis was identified in keratinocytes by TUNEL assay. HMGB1 expression in the I/R site was decreased in both keratinocytes and adnexal cells, while serum HMGB1 levels were significantly elevated after reperfusion. The mRNA levels of various cytokines, including IL‐1β, were elevated in J774A.1 cells through TLR4 signalling by HMGB1 stimulation. In addition, HaCaT cells stimulated with IL‐1β showed significantly increased CXCL1, TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐36β and IL‐36γ mRNA expression. Furthermore, NET formation was increased by IL‐36Ra deficiency. Finally, either the blockade of TLR4 signalling by TAK‐242 or inhibition of NET formation by Cl‐amidine normalized exacerbated I/R injury in Il36rn−/− mice.

Conclusions

This study indicated that IL‐36Ra deficiency exacerbates cutaneous I/R injury due to excessive inflammatory cell recruitment, NET formation, and excessive cytokine and chemokine production via the TLR4 pathway by HMGB1 released from epidermal apoptotic cells.
Biosecurity and the ornamental fish trade: A stakeholder perspective in England
Authors: Wood Louisa E. , Guilder James , Brennan Marnie L. , Birland Nicola J. , Taleti Virginia , Stinton Nicholas , Taylor Nick G. H. , Thrush Mark A.
Published: October 2021

The freshwater and marine ornamental fish industry is a primary route of hazard introduction and emergence, including aquatic animal diseases and non‐native species. Prevention measures are key to reducing the risk of hazard incursion and establishment, but there is currently little understanding of the biosecurity practices and hazard responses implemented at post‐border stages of the ornamental fish supply chain. This study addresses this knowledge gap, using questionnaires to collate information on actual biosecurity behaviours and hazard responses practised by ornamental fish retailers and hobbyist communities in England. Actual behaviours varied considerably within retailers and hobbyists, suggesting that reliance on preventative practices by individuals in the post‐border stages of the ornamental fish supply chain is likely to be ineffective in minimizing the risk of hazard incursion and establishment. Resources should be allocated towards improving and enforcing robust pre‐ and at‐border control measures, such as risk‐based surveillance of ornamental fish imports at border controls. In addition, these findings should be used to implement targeted awareness‐raising campaigns and help create directed training on biosecurity practices for individuals involved in the post‐border stages of the ornamental supply chain.
Osteology‐focused redescription and description of the blood‐feeding candirus Paracanthopoma parva and Paravandellia alleynei sp.n. (Trichomycteridae: Vandelliinae)
Authors: Henschel Elisabeth , Bernt Maxwell J. , Baskin Jonathan N. , Schmidt Robert E. , Lujan Nathan K.
Published: October 2021

This study resolves a significant impediment to the taxonomy of the Neotropical endemic hematophagous candirus by providing the first high‐resolution, CT‐based osteological descriptions of type and nontype specimens of Paracanthopoma parva, type species of the genus. We also describe the distinctive new species Paravandellia alleynei based on specimens that were previously misidentified as Parac. parva in the only taxonomic study of that species since its 1935 description. Paracanthopoma parva is distinguished from all nominal congeners by its parietosupraoccipital and caudal skeleton morphology and by various meristics, including numbers of teeth on median premaxilla, vertebrae, and procurrent and principal caudal‐fin rays. Paravandellia alleynei differs from both nominal congeners (Paravandellia oxyptera and Paravandellia phaneronema) by the unique morphology of its maxilla, mesethmoid and opercular apparatus, relative position of the pelvic‐ and anal‐fin origins, orientation of the opercular odontodes, and various meristics, including numbers of vertebrae, median premaxillary teeth, medial teeth on premaxilla, branchiostegal rays, opercular and interopercular odontodes, distal claw‐like premaxillary teeth, dorsal‐fin rays and dentary teeth. This is the first species of Paravandellia recognized from Guyana and the Essequibo River basin. It is currently known only from two type specimens from the lower Essequibo River basin and 43 nontype specimens from the upper Branco River basin. By providing the first skeletal observations for type specimens of the type species Parac. parva and for topotypic specimens of all three nominal species of Paravandellia, we clarify and confirm the diagnosis of Parac. parva and establish a robust foundation for ongoing taxonomic revisions of these two small‐sized and species‐poor, yet trans‐continentally distributed genera, both of which contain considerable unrecognized diversity.
Does tagging transparent fish increase predation risk? A laboratory study with glass eel (Anguilla anguilla) and sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Griffioen Arie Benjamin , Janssen Woody , Menke Timon , Wilkes Tony , Winter Hendrik Volken
Published: October 2021

Barriers in the estuaries of the rivers prevent the immigration of glass eels (Anguilla anguilla) arriving on the European coast every spring. This leads to an unnatural accumulation of migrating glass eels below the barriers, and this may lead to additional losses in glass eels by piscivorous fish. The proportion of predation losses can be estimated using mark‐recapture techniques and abundance estimates in combination with stomach content analysis of piscivorous fish. Nonetheless, whether tagging transparent glass eels increases predation risk and what the digestion rate of glass eel is in piscivorous fish are unknown. This study aimed to determine whether there is an increased predation risk for tagged glass eel; it also studies glass eel digestion status in piscivorous fish after appointed time frames. A laboratory experiment with 48 trials was conducted. Tagged (visible implanted elastomer, VIE) and untagged glass eels were exposed to small (19.1–24.4 cm) and large (31.9–43.5 cm) sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) during a 2 h trial. In 48% of the trials, successful predation was present and 13% showed clear predation attempts in which bass did not capture glass eels. No significant difference was found in predation rate between tagged and untagged glass eels and between red and blue tagged glass eels. Large sea bass predated more, but all sizes consumed glass eel under laboratory conditions. Stomach content analysis showed intact glass eel bodies 4–6 h after ending the 2 h trial and parts of glass eel bodies up to 16–18 h. This study showed that tagging does not increase predation in mark‐recapture studies using VIE‐tags in transparent glass eel. It also shows that the proportion of predation in relation to local glass eel abundance can be estimated if stomach content analysis is conducted within 4–6 h after predation.
Geriatric considerations for collaborative care for depression in rural populations
Authors: Kazan Joseph , Gebara Marie Anne
Published: October 2021

This editorial comments on the article by Renn et al in this issue.
Abortion With Pills: Review of Current Options in The United States
Authors: Jenkins Julie , Woodside Faith , Lipinsky Katrina , Simmonds Katherine , Coplon Leah
Published: October 2021

Interest in self‐management approaches to abortion with pills in the United States preceded the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and has accelerated during this global health crisis. Coupled with the unclear future of legal abortion in the United States, clinical care providers need to be aware of the range of self‐managed abortion approaches and of the varying levels of engagement with the formal health care system they entail. This article is intended to serve as a resource to inform providers of the current landscape of abortion with pills in the United States, while also describing possible shifts in the future that may result due to the ongoing pandemic and the continuing erosion of access to abortion care and services.
Distinct displacement of the superficial and deep fascial layers of the iliotibial band during a weight shift task in runners: An exploratory study
Authors: Besomi Manuela , Salomoni Sauro E. , Cruz‐Montecinos Carlos , Stecco Carla , Vicenzino Bill , Hodges Paul W.
Published: October 2021

Motion of the fascial layers of the iliotibial band (ITB), as a reinforcement of the deep fascia lata, is likely to be relevant for its function and mechanical behaviour. This exploratory study aimed to evaluate the ITB fascial layers displacement during a weight shift task. Thirteen pain‐free runners performed a 6‐second standing weight shift task. B‐mode ultrasound imaging using an automated fascicle tracking algorithm was used to measure proximal and distal displacement of superficial and deep ITB layers at the middle region. To study the potential contributors to individual variation of fascial motion, we recorded the activity of five hip/thigh muscles with electromyography (EMG), thigh/pelvis/trunk position with accelerometers, and centre of pressure with a force plate. Linear regressions estimated the relationship between displacement of fascial layers and hip/trunk angles. Independent t‐tests or Fisher's exact tests compared EMG and movement‐related parameters between participants who demonstrated motion of the fascia in the proximal and distal directions. Thickness of the ITB and the loose connective tissue between its layers were calculated. Proximal displacement was observed in six (−4.1 ± 1.9 mm [superficial]) and two (−6.2 ± 2.0 mm [deep]) participants. Distal displacement was observed for seven participants for each layer (3.1 ± 1.1 mm [superficial]; 3.6 ± 1.3 mm [deep]). Four participants did not show displacement of the deep layer. Trunk lateral flexion and gluteus medius muscle activity were determinants of proximal motion of the superficial layer. Loose connective tissue was thinner in participants without displacement of the deep layer. Displacement of the ITB fascial layers varies between individuals. Variation related to differences in joint movements and muscle activity. This study highlights the complex interaction between fascia and movement.
Shared decision‐making interventions: An overview and a meta‐analysis of their impact on vaccine uptake
Authors: Scalia P. , Durand M.‐A. , Elwyn G.
Published: October 2021

Background: The interest in shared decision making (SDM) and the use of patient decision aids have increased significantly. Research indicates that this approach has benefits, and yet, implementation remains a challenge. To illustrate this development, we focus on vaccine hesitancy which has become a serious public health challenge during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Various strategies have been used in healthcare, with limited success, to help patients overcome vaccine hesitancy. It is unclear whether SDM interventions can increase vaccination rates.

Aims: Our aim was two‐fold: to provide an overview of SDM and the use of patient decision aids and to determine the effect of SDM interventions on vaccine uptake.

Methods: To provide an overview, we drew on our knowledge of the field and summarized the most recent systematic reviews. We examined the impact on vaccine hesitancy by searching for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of SDM interventions, conducted a meta‐analysis and calculated a pooled odds ratio. Additional outcomes were reported in a narrative synthesis.

Results: SDM is viewed as the pinnacle of patient‐centred care, supported by an ethical imperative and by empirical evidence of benefits. We found 10 RCTs that met our inclusion criteria. SDM interventions significantly increased vaccine uptake compared to control groups (odds ratio = 1.45; 95% confidence interval [1.17–1.80]; p < 0.01). Some RCTs also reported significantly decreased decisional conflict and increased decision confidence.

Conclusion: Future healthcare delivery systems will need to consider how to support the implementation of SDM. Interventions designed to facilitate this approach can represent a helpful, ethically defensible, strategy to increase vaccination rates.
An update on extracapsular dissection for the management of parotid gland pleomorphic adenoma
Authors: Loke Wee Lee , Rahimi Siavash , Brennan Peter A.
Published: October 2021

Superficial parotidectomy has been the gold standard for surgical removal of benign mobile parotid gland tumours. The comparatively newer technique of extracapsular dissection, which involves careful dissection of the tumour itself without the need for formal gland excision, has gained popularity in recent years. Tumours can be removed via smaller incision, and the technique reduces the risk of Frey's syndrome (gustatory sweating) and hollowing at the site of surgery. The risk of facial nerve damage can also be lower with extracapsular dissection. If done carefully, the incidence of tumour recurrence, particularly for pleomorphic adenomas, is comparable with formal parotidectomy. We provide a brief update overview of the current evidence for extracapsular dissection in the treatment of benign parotid tumours and include several meta‐analyses which provide evidence for the safety of the technique. We have also included our audited results of over 100 recent extracapsular dissections, with 0% incidence of permanent facial nerve weakness, reported Frey's syndrome and recurrence rates over the last 5 years.
The effect of accounting for income tax uncertainty on tax‐deductible loss accruals for private insurers
Authors: Cheng Jiang , Chow Travis , Lin Tzu‐Ting , Ng Jeffrey
Published: October 2021

Little is known about the effects of accounting regulation on private insurers. In this paper, we examine the uniqueness of the tax deductibility of insurers' loss accruals. We find that private insurers' overstatement of loss accruals in tax planning significantly decreases after adoption of the Statement of Statutory Accounting Principles (SSAP) 101, which mandates that insurance companies recognize and measure tax contingencies. Relative to public insurers' loss reserve errors, those of private insurers decrease by an estimated 0.8%–1.1% of total assets, implying a forfeited tax benefit of $1.79–$4.4 million per firm, per year. We also find that the decrease is mitigated for insurers with lower IRS monitoring or in states where the insurance industry comprises a greater part of state employment. Additionally, insurers with independent boards, or those with independent, external actuaries are more responsive to the adoption of SSAP 101.
Controlled and Automatic Processing in the Acceptability Judgment Task: An Eye‐Tracking Study
Authors: Maie Ryo , Godfroid Aline
Published: October 2021

We conducted an eye‐tracking study of the acceptability judgment task (AJT) by drawing on the dual process theory of controlled and automatic processing. We conceptually replicated the work of Godfroid et al. (2015) and then extended it in two respects: (a) we analyzed both late and early measures of eye movement to differentiate between the effect of time pressure on controlled and on automatic processes, and (b) we examined how the automaticity of participants’ lexical processing moderated the effect of time pressure. Under timed and untimed conditions, 31 L1 and 40 L2 English speakers performed the AJT while their eye movements were recorded. Through statistical modeling of the eye‐tracking data, we demonstrated that (a) time pressure inhibits not only controlled processing but also automatic processing and (b) the time pressure effect is most pronounced for the late eye‐movement measures of L2 speakers with slow lexical decoding skills. We explain that time pressure may not work as theoretically predicted by L2 researchers (i.e., to suppress only controlled processes associated with explicit knowledge) and that its effect is not uniform across different L2 speakers.
The prevalence of chronic kidney disease in Samoans living in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Tafuna'i Malama , Turner Robin M. , Richards Rosalina , Sopoaga Fa'afetai , Walker Robert
Published: October 2021

Aims

Pacific peoples have higher rates of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and are five times more likely to commence kidney replacement therapy compared with New Zealand (NZ) Europeans. As the majority live Auckland, this study looked at the prevalence of CKD in two Auckland Pacific Island health providers caring for a large proportion of Pacific peoples, of which almost 50% are Samoan, as well as NZ Europeans.

Methods

De‐identified information was requested on individuals who had two or more CKD tests (serum creatinine and urinary albumin creatinine ratios) more than 3 months apart. CKD prevalence across different demographic groups was determined. Logistic regression was used to look at associations of known risk factors and CKD.

Results

Data from 25 127 patients was evaluated. Of the total sample, 7451 individuals identified as Samoans. The prevalence of CKD amongst all Samoans in this sample was 17.8% increasing to 36.3% in those Samoans that had been tested for CKD. The prevalence of CKD in this total sample was 13% increasing to 27.5% considering only those who had CKD testing. The odds of Samoans having CKD (adjOR: 1.9 [95%CI 1.7, 2.2]), all other Pacific Island ethnicities identified and NZ Maori (adjOR:1.5 [95%CI 1.3, 1.8]), were increased compared with non‐Māori‐non‐Pacific (likelihood p value <.001).

Conclusion

We report the high prevalence of CKD (15.9%–33.4%) in Samoans living in New Zealand. This reveals an urgent need for further studies to develop strategies to prevent or reduce the development of kidney failure and premature death.
Baseline predictive factors for foregut and hindgut response to long‐term gastric electrical stimulation using augmented energy
Authors: Elmasry Mohamed , Hassan Hamza , Mathur Prateek , Stocker Abigail , Atassi Hadi , Saleem Saad , McElmurray Lindsay , Cooper Kelly , Hughes Michael G. , Starkebaum Warren , Pinkston Christina , Abell Thomas
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Gastric electrical stimulation (GES) has been recommended for drug refractory patients with gastroparesis, but no clear baseline predictors of symptom response exist. We hypothesized that long‐term predictors to GES for foregut and hindgut symptoms exist, particularly when using augmented energies.

Patients

We evaluated 307 patients at baseline, 1 week post temporary GES, and one year after permanent GES. Baseline measures included upper and lower symptoms by patient‐reported outcomes (PRO), solid and liquid gastric emptying (GET), cutaneous, mucosal, and serosal electrophysiology (EGG, m/s EG), BMI, and response to temporary stimulation.

Methods

Foregut and hindgut PRO symptoms were analyzed for 12‐month patient outcomes. All patients utilized a standardized energy algorithm with the majority of patients receiving medium energy at 12 months. Patients were categorized based on change in average GI symptom scores at the time of permanent GES compared to baseline using a 10% decrease over time as the cutoff between improvers versus non‐improvers.

Results

By permanent GES implant, average foregut and hindgut GI symptom scores reduced 42% in improved patients (n = 199) and increased 27% in non‐improved patients (n = 108). Low BMI, baseline infrequent urination score, mucosal EG ratio, and proximal mucosal EG low‐resolution amplitude remained significant factors for improvement status.

Conclusions

GES, for patients responding positively, improved both upper/foregut and lower/hindgut symptoms with most patients utilizing higher than nominal energies. Low baseline BMI and the presence of infrequent urination along with baseline gastric electrophysiology may help identify those patients with the best response to GES/bio‐electric neuromodulation.
Abscisic acid supports colonization of Eucalyptus grandis roots by the mutualistic ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus microcarpus
Authors: Hill Richard A. , Wong‐Bajracharya Johanna , Anwar Sidra , Coles Donovin , Wang Mei , Lipzen Anna , Ng Vivian , Grigoriev Igor V. , Martin Francis , Anderson Ian C. , Cazzonelli Christopher I. , Jeffries Thomas , Plett Krista L. , Plett Jonathan M.
Published: October 2021

The pathways regulated in ectomycorrhizal (EcM) plant hosts during the establishment of symbiosis are not as well understood when compared to the functional stages of this mutualistic interaction. Our study used the EcM host Eucalyptus grandis to elucidate symbiosis‐regulated pathways across the three phases of this interaction.

Using a combination of RNA sequencing and metabolomics we studied both stage‐specific and core responses of E. grandis during colonization by Pisolithus microcarpus. Using exogenous manipulation of the abscisic acid (ABA), we studied the role of this pathway during symbiosis establishment.

Despite the mutualistic nature of this symbiosis, a large number of disease signalling TIR‐NBS‐LRR genes were induced. The transcriptional regulation in E. grandis was found to be dynamic across colonization with a small core of genes consistently regulated at all stages. Genes associated to the carotenoid/ABA pathway were found within this core and ABA concentrations increased during fungal integration into the root. Supplementation of ABA led to improved accommodation of P. microcarpus into E. grandis roots.

The carotenoid pathway is a core response of an EcM host to its symbiont and highlights the need to understand the role of the stress hormone ABA in controlling host–EcM fungal interactions.
Nutritional quality of giant kelp declines due to warming ocean temperatures
Authors: Lowman Heili E. , Emery Kyle A. , Dugan Jenifer E. , Miller Robert J.
Published: October 2021

Giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera forms extensive forests on temperate reefs, providing habitat and food for a diversity of marine life. Kelp biomass varies in response to changing ocean temperatures, but physiological responses as reflected in the nutritional quality of kelp tissue are poorly understood. Over a 19‐year period in southern California, we found that nutritional quality of giant kelp tissue declined; nitrogen content of giant kelp tissue declined by 18%, while carbon content proportionally increased. This decline in nutritional quality was associated with increasing seawater temperatures and with regional and local scale processes including upwelling as indicated by the biologically effective upwelling transport index, the El Niño‐Southern oscillation and the North Pacific Gyre oscillation. Changes in kelp stoichiometry with seawater temperature have important implications for nutrition and behavior of key consumers, such as sea urchins. Our results suggest that the consequences of projected declines in kelp abundance due to climate change may be compounded by reductions in its nutritional quality.
Knockout of the lignin pathway gene BnF5H decreases the S/G lignin compositional ratio and improves Sclerotinia sclerotiorum resistance in Brassica napus
Authors: Cao Yanru , Yan Xingying , Ran Shuyao , Ralph John , Smith Rebecca A. , Chen Xueping , Qu Cunmin , Li Jiana , Liu Liezhao
Published: October 2021

Ferulate‐5‐hydroxylase is a key enzyme involved in the conversion of the guaiacyl monolignol to the syringyl monolignol in angiosperms. The monolignol ratio has been proposed to affect biomass recalcitrance and the resistance to plant disease. Stem rot caused by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Brassica napus causes severe losses in its production. To date, there is no information about the effect of the lignin monomer ratio on the resistance to S. sclerotiorum in B. napus. Four dominantly expressed ferulate‐5‐hydroxylase genes were concertedly knocked out by CRISPR/Cas9 in B. napus, and three mutant lines were generated. The S/G lignin compositional ratio was decreased compared to that of the wild type based on the results of Mӓule staining and 2D‐NMR profiling in KO‐7. The resistance to S. sclerotiorum in stems and leaves increased for the three f5h mutant lines compared with WT. Furthermore, we found that the stem strength of f5h mutant lines was significantly increased. Overall, we demonstrate for the first time that decreasing the S/G ratio by knocking out of the F5H gene improves S. sclerotiorum resistance in B. napus and increases stem strength.
Visual attention to their own paralytic limbs in children with spina bifida: Measurement of gaze direction using eye tracking
Authors: Mano Hiroshi , Fujiwara Sayaka , Yabuki Sayumi , Takikawa Kazuharu , Tanaka Hiroshi , Haga Nobuhiko
Published: October 2021

Background

Patients with spina bifida experience sensory and motor paralysis and complications in the form of deformation and skin problems of the lower limbs. Enhancing their awareness of the paralysed lesions could be helpful for these patients to prevent secondary disorders. This study sought to investigate to what extent children with spina bifida are visually aware of their body parts and, in particular, to their paralysed lesions.

Methods

Participants included children with spina bifida (n = 10) and typically developing control children (n = 10) between the ages of 5 and 11 years. All participants were shown still images of themselves on a monitor after which their gaze direction was measured using an eye tracker, with or without providing an instruction to direct their attention to their limbs. The gaze direction data were analyzed and compared between children with spina bifida and the control children.

Results

Children with spina bifida paid visual attention to their bodies in a manner similar to that of control children. Prompts to direct their attention to their limbs were effective in both groups; however, the degree of efficacy in children with spina bifida was inferior to that in control children.

Conclusions

Promotion of visual awareness to their paralytic parts could be a reasonable and effective method for children with spina bifida to improve their understanding and recognition of their body and prevent associated skin problems.
A novel BMPR1A mutation affects mRNA splicing in juvenile polyposis syndrome
Authors: Imagawa Kazuo , Morita Atsushi , Fukushima Hiroko , Tagawa Manabu , Takada Hidetoshi
Published: October 2021

Background

Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) is one of the hereditary polyposis syndromes caused by abnormal regulation of transforming growth factor β signaling because of mutations in BMPR1A and SMAD4. Juvenile polyposis syndrome patients with SMAD4 mutations develop cardiovascular events, whereas those with BMPR1A usually do not. Analysis of genetic mutations in JPS patients can be helpful in devising suitable strategies for medical management. In this study, we demonstrate the pathogenicity of a novel intronic mutation in BMPR1A using mRNA extracted from colonic mucosa of a boy with JPS.

Methods

Genomic DNA extracted from peripheral blood and total RNA isolated from the colonic mucosa were used for DNA sequencing and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analyses, respectively.

Results

A 13‐year‐old boy, with no previous medical history, presented to the hospital complaining of bloody stools. Colonoscopy revealed multiple polyps in the colon, and the resected polyps were compatible with juvenile polyps. Sequencing analysis revealed a novel intronic mutation (c.778+5G>C) in BMPR1A. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis of RNA extracted from the colonic mucosa showed an aberrant splicing form of BMPR1A. Trio analysis showed that his mother also had the same BMPR1A mutation. She was diagnosed with cancer of the cecum and polyposis of the colon at the age of 41.

Conclusion

We demonstrate the presence of a novel BMPR1A intronic mutation that exhibits splicing abnormality in a family with JPS. Further research and development will help elucidate the genotype–phenotype relationship in JPS.
Coagulation potential in pediatric patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Omae Takashi , Ishikawa Tomoaki , Nakajima Yuto , Nogami Keiji
Published: October 2021

Background

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most prevalent primary chronic glomerular disease in children. Understanding the changes in coagulability caused by IgAN is important for clarifying pathophysiology and choice of treatment. The coagulation potential in patients with IgAN remains to be investigated, however. We aimed to assess comprehensive coagulation potential in pediatric patients with IgAN and explore its relationship with pathological disease severity.

Methods

Fourteen children with IgAN diagnosed by renal biopsy, who were admitted at Nara Medical University Hospital between 2015 and 2020, were analyzed. Rotational thromboelastometry was used to evaluate coagulation potential. Values of rotational thromboelastometry parameters in patients with IgAN were compared with those in control children.

Results

In patients with IgAN (aged median 9.5 year), clotting time plus clot formation time (CT + CFT) was shortened (P = 0.003) and α angle was greater (P < 0.001) than those in controls, indicating a hypercoagulable state. The rate of mesangial hypercellularity of glomeruli correlated with CT + CFT, α, and maximum clot firmness (MCF) (rs = −0.79, 0.56, and 0.37). The rate of cellular/fibrocellular crescent of glomeruli correlated with CT + CFT, α, and MCF (rs = −0.41, 0.60, and 0.50). Patients with mesangial hypercellularity ≥80% of glomeruli showed reduced CT + CFT and increased α angle (P = 0.007 and 0.03). Patients with cellular/fibrocellular crescent ≥10% of glomeruli showed decreased CT + CFT and increased α angle (both P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The hypercoagulable state in pediatric patients with IgAN may be associated with the pathological severity of their disease.
Response of soil aggregate stability and erodibility to different treatments on typical steppe in the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Zhou Yao , Ma Hongbin , Xie Yingzhong , Lu Qi , Shen Yan , Ma Jing
Published: October 2021

Vegetation restoration is an effective means to increase the stability of aggregates and the ability of soil to resist erosion. At present, there are few studies on soil aggregate stability in contour trench and fish‐scale pit grasslands (FPGs). Therefore, to determine the effects of different treatments on the stability of aggregates in the Loess Plateau, grazing grassland (GG), fencing grassland (FG), contour trench grassland (CG), and FPG were selected to compare distributions of soil aggregates, the soil aggregate stability, and soil erodibility K value. The results showed that <0.25‐mm and >5‐mm aggregates were the main components. The mass percentage of 5–0.25‐mm aggregates in FG was significantly higher than that in GG, CG, or FPG. The proportion of large water‐stable aggregates, mean weight diameter, and geometric mean diameter values were significantly higher in GG than in FG, CG, or FPG for topsoil, while FG had the highest WR0.25 (70.21%) for subsoil. The opposite trends were found for fractal dimension and percentage of aggregate destruction values. The K values for CG and FPG were found to be significantly higher than those for GG and FG. A correlation analysis indicated that soil organic carbon can promote the stability of soil aggregates. A negative correlation was found between the comprehensive score and K values. In summary, FG had positive effects on soil aggregate stability and erodibility. This finding can guide the local government to adopt enclosure measures when implementing ecological restoration of degraded grasslands.
The determinants of inequality in child nutrition status: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Krafft Caroline
Published: October 2021

Early childhood is the period when inequality originates and the intergenerational transmission of poverty and inequality begins. It is therefore important to understand what drives inequality in early childhood health and nutrition in order to provide children with equal chances for healthy growth. In Jordan, there are substantial socioeconomic disparities in children's health and nutrition; children from wealthy households grow normally while other children falter. This paper examines the determinants and mediators of health disparities in children's height and weight in Jordan, including parental health knowledge, food quantity and quality, health conditions, the health environment, and prenatal development. While this paper demonstrates that the health environment and food quantity and quality contribute to inequality in child health, these effects explain only a small share of disparities. A large share of inequality in children's health is determined prenatally, and nutrition policies need to prioritize this period.
Rhythm disturbances associated with lidocaine administration in four dogs with supraventricular tachyarrhythmias
Authors: Seo Joonbum , Spalla Ilaria , Porteiro Vázquez Dolores M. , Luis Fuentes Virginia , Tinson Erica , Connolly David J.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To describe arrhythmias associated with administration of lidocaine in dogs treated for supraventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Case summaries

Four dogs with recent‐onset supraventricular tachyarrhythmias: 3 dogs had atrial fibrillation (AF), and 1 had focal atrial tachycardia (FAT), which was thought to be AF at the time of assessment. The substrate of the supraventricular tachyarrhythmia was considered to be due to primary cardiomyopathy in 1 dog, high vagal tone in 2 dogs, and the change in hemodynamics from heavy sedation in 1 dog. Pharmacological cardioversion using lidocaine was only successful in the 2 dogs with vagally mediated AF. In these 2 cases, lidocaine administration resulted in a paroxysmal atrial flutter that was self‐limiting and quickly led to sinus rhythm within 10 seconds in 1 dog but did not change over a 5‐minute interval and required additional boluses in another dog. In the latter case, the dog showed severe bradycardia for 17.5 seconds prior to achieving sinus rhythm. The 2 unsuccessful cases both developed ventricular arrhythmias shortly after the lidocaine administration, with 1 case degenerating into ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest.

New or unique information provided

Arrhythmias associated with lidocaine should be considered when treating dogs with supraventricular tachyarrhythmia.
Outcome measures of palliative care programs and interventions implemented in nursing homes: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Meng Lingyuan , Peters Micah D.J. , Sharplin Greg , Eckert Marion
Published: October 2021

Objective:

This scoping review aims to identify and map the outcomes reported from evaluations that measure the effectiveness and acceptability of palliative care programs and interventions in residential aged care facilities.

Introduction:

As the population ages, there is increasing attention on implementing new interventions and programs to improve palliative care in residential aged care facilities. However, there is no standard evaluation for intervention implementation. Mapping the outcome measures used in evaluations of diverse palliative care interventions in residential aged care facilities has not been explored recently.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies involving older adults (aged 50 years and above) in any country living and receiving care in residential aged care facilities. This review will exclude literature that focuses on other age groups, and people receiving palliative care in other care settings, such as hospitals, palliative care inpatient units, sheltered housing, cancer centers, own homes, and hospices.

Methods:

This scoping review will follow the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. This scoping review will identify both published and unpublished (eg, gray literature) primary studies, as well as reviews. The databases to be searched for published studies will include MEDLINE, Emcare, ProQuest, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. The search will be limited to evidence published in English from 2008 to the present. Visual, tabular, and accompanying narrative summaries will be used to present the results.