bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infant‐directed speech to infants at risk for dyslexia: A novel cross‐dyad design
Authors: Kalashnikova Marina , Goswami Usha , Burnham Denis
Published: February 2020

When mothers speak to infants at risk for developmental dyslexia, they do not hyperarticulate vowels in their infant‐directed speech (IDS). Here, we used an innovative cross‐dyad design to investigate whether the absence of vowel hyperarticulation in IDS to at‐risk infants is a product of maternal infant‐directed behavior or of infants’ parent‐directed cues. Interactions between mothers and infants who were at risk or not at risk for dyslexia were recorded in three conditions: when mothers interacted with (a) their own infants, (b) infants who were not their own but of the same risk status, and (c) infants who were not their own and of the opposite risk status. This design revealed both infant and parent effects. Mothers of not‐at‐risk infants hyperarticulated vowels significantly more when speaking to not‐at‐risk than to at‐risk infants. In contrast, mothers of at‐risk infants hyperarticulated vowels significantly less than NAR mothers, and this was irrespective of infant status. Mothers of not‐at‐risk infants thus adjusted their IDS to the infant's risk status, while mothers of at‐risk infants did not. We suggest that IDS is determined reciprocally by characteristics of both partners in the dyad: Both infant and maternal factors are essential for the vowel hyperarticulation component of IDS.
Characterisation of respiratory syncytial virus activity in children and adults presenting with acute respiratory illness at primary care clinics in Singapore, 2014‐2018
Authors: Ang Li Wei , Mak Tze Minn , Cui Lin , Leo Yee Sin , Lee Vernon Jian Ming , Lin Raymond Tzer‐Pin
Published: February 2020

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important respiratory pathogen that affects people of all ages.

Objectives

We examined the patterns of RSV circulation in 2014‐2018, and investigated their age‐specific differences in tropical Singapore.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal and/or throat swabs were taken from outpatient attendees for the national influenza virological surveillance among those who presented with acute respiratory illness in the community. Specimens tested negative for influenza were then tested for RSV and other respiratory pathogens.

Results

Among 8436 influenza‐negative specimens tested during the five‐year period, 5.8% (95% confidence interval 5.3%‐6.3%) were positive for RSV. The peak of RSV activity occurred around middle of the year. The age‐specific proportion of RSV detections showed a reverse J‐shaped pattern; RSV positivity was the highest in young children ≤2 years of age (10.9%), followed by those aged 3‐5 years (6.4%) and persons aged ≥65 years (5.3%), while the nadir was observed in the age group of 15‐24 years (1.2%). RSV type A was predominantly circulating in children ≤5 years of age from 2014 to 2015 and 2017, whereas in 2016, they were more affected by type B.

Conclusion

Respiratory syncytial virus was more frequently detected among the two age groups that have been recommended for influenza vaccination; persons ≥65 years of age and children 6 months to <5 years of age. Characterisation of RSV activity in the community helps to better inform public health policies for effective prevention and control interventions.
Rationale, design, and baseline characteristics of the Cardiovascular Prognostic COUPLING Study in Japan (the COUPLING Registry)
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Fujiwara Takeshi , Negishi Keita , Nishizawa Masafumi , Yamamoto Mitsuyoshi , Yamagiwa Kayo , Kawashima Akihiro , Yoshida Tetsuro , Nakazato Jun , Matsui Yoshio , Sekizuka Hiromitsu , Abe Hideyasu , Abe Yasuhisa , Fujita Yumiko , Sato Kei , Narita Keisuke , Tsuchiya Norihiro , Kubota Yoshiaki , Hashizume Toshikazu , Hoshide Satoshi
Published: February 2020

Vascular biomarkers, including the cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI), are increasingly being recognized as important indicators of cardiovascular risk. CAVI has been shown to have good discriminative ability for detecting new‐onset hypertension, but results of studies investigating cardiovascular risk prediction are inconsistent. Furthermore, there is a lack of data on the prognostic value of changes in CAVI over time. The Cardiovascular Prognostic Coupling study was designed to determine the impact of baseline CAVI and changes in CAVI on cardiovascular events in a Japanese cohort. The design of the ongoing, multicenter, prospective, observational registry and baseline characteristics of the enrolled population are reported. Eligible consecutive patients were aged ≥30 years, had ≥1 cardiovascular risk factor, and were being treated according to relevant Japanese guidelines. The primary outcome is time to onset of a major cardiovascular event (a composite of cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, stroke of unknown etiology, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular intervention for angina pectoris, and sudden death). Screening and enrollment occurred over a period of 3 years, followed by ≥7 years of follow‐up, with CAVI determined annually. A total of 5279 patients were registered, of whom 5109 had baseline data available and will be included in future analyses. Mean CAVI at baseline was 8.8 ± 1.4. The proportion of patients with CAVI of <8, 8‐10 or >10 was 25.3%, 57.0%, and 17.7%, respectively. Data from this registry should provide information on the significance of baseline CAVI and change in CAVI as indicators of cardiovascular prognosis in a representative patient population.
Endogenous ocular lipids as potential modulators of intraocular pressure
Authors: Edwards Genea , Arcuri Jennifer , Wang Haiyan , Ziebarth Noel , Zode Gulab , Lee Richard K. , Bhattacharya Sanjoy K.
Published: February 2020

Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a risk factor in glaucoma, a group of irreversible blinding diseases. Endogenous lipids may be involved in regulation of IOP homeostasis. We present comparative fold analysis of phospholipids and sphingolipids of aqueous humour and trabecular meshwork from human control vs primary open‐angle glaucoma and mouse control (normotensive) vs ocular hypertensive state. The fold analysis in control vs disease state was based on ratiometric mass spectrometric data for above classes of lipids. We standardized in vitro assays for rapid characterization of lipids undergoing significant diminishment in disease state. Evaluation of lipids using in vitro assays helped select a finite number of lipids that may potentially expand cellular interstitial space embedded in an artificial matrix or increase fluid flow across a layer of cells. These assays reduced a number of lipids for initial evaluation using a mouse model, DBA/2J with spontaneous IOP elevation. These lipids were then used in other mouse models for confirmation of IOP lowering potential of a few lipids that were found promising in previous assessments. Our results provide selected lipid molecules that can be pursued for further evaluation and studies that may provide insight into their function.
Using Natural Language Processing to Predict Item Response Times and Improve Test Construction
Authors: Baldwin Peter , Yaneva Victoria , Mee Janet , Clauser Brian E. , Ha Le An
Published: February 2020

In this article, it is shown how item text can be represented by (a) 113 features quantifying the text's linguistic characteristics, (b) 16 measures of the extent to which an information‐retrieval‐based automatic question‐answering system finds an item challenging, and (c) through dense word representations (word embeddings). Using a random forests algorithm, these data then are used to train a prediction model for item response times and predicted response times then are used to assemble test forms. Using empirical data from the United States Medical Licensing Examination, we show that timing demands are more consistent across these specially assembled forms than across forms comprising randomly‐selected items. Because an exam's timing conditions affect examinee performance, this result has implications for exam fairness whenever examinees are compared with each other or against a common standard.
Adaptation accuracy of milled lithium disilicate crowns: A 2D and 3D microCT analysis
Authors: De Freitas Bruna N. , Tonin Bruna S. H. , Macedo Ana P. , dos Santos Thais M. P. , De Mattos Maria d. G. C. , Hotta Takami H. , Matsumoto Wilson
Published: February 2020

Objective

Evaluate the effects of the scanning techniques and the crystallization in the internal and marginal adaptation of milled lithium disilicate crowns by two techniques computer microtomography analysis.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen polyurethane teeth prepared for a complete crown were divided into two groups according to the scanner method (n = 8): indirect (IND), dental stone models were scanned with laser‐surface scanner, and direct (DIR), digital typodont creates with an intraoral scanner. Internal and marginal gap were evaluated by micro‐computed tomography (microCT). The replica technique (RT) was applied for analysis of total volume (TV) and marginal volume (MV) gap in microCT. The data showed normal distribution (Shapiro‐Wilk test). One‐way ANOVA (scanner techniques) with repeated measures (crystallization) was performed. Multiple comparisons were performed with Bonferroni adjustment (α = .05).

Results

The axial gap showed a significant difference between the times (P = .017) for lower values after crystallization. The vertical marginal gap presented a significant difference in times for higher value after crystallization (P = .001). The marginal horizontal gap IND was greater than DIR after crystallization (P = .001) and IND before lower than after crystallization. For TV was not significant difference and MV in DIR was reduction (P = .002) after crystallization. Conclusion: Crystallization changes the relationship between the crown and tooth, reducing internal gap and preventing the adequate fit in indirect and direct scanning.

Clinical Significance

The measure gap under technological methodology is useful for adjust clinical parameters prosthetic in the CAD/CAM and the applicability of the new possibilities of analysis.
Medical Doctors and Dementia: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Vassilaki Maria , Syrjanen Jeremy A. , Kremers Walter K. , Hagen Philip T. , Knopman David S. , Mielke Michelle M. , Geda Yonas E. , Alhurani Rabe E. , Machulda Mary M. , Roberts Rosebud O. , Petersen Ronald C.
Published: February 2020

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between being a medical doctor (MD) and the risk of incident dementia.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTING

Olmsted County, Minnesota.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 3460 participants (including 104 MDs), aged 70 years or older, of the population‐based Mayo Clinic Study of Aging.

MEASUREMENTS

Participants were randomly selected from the community and had comprehensive cognitive evaluations at baseline and approximately every 15 months to assess for diagnosis of dementia. For participants who withdrew from the follow‐up, dementia diagnosis was also assessed using information available in their medical record. The associations were examined using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for sex, education, and apolipoprotein E ε4, using age as the time scale.

RESULTS

MDs were older (vs “general population”), and most were males (93.3%). MDs without dementia at baseline did not have a significantly different risk for incident dementia (hazard ratio = 1.12; 95% confidence interval = 0.69‐1.82; P = .64) compared to the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the study includes a small number of older, mainly male, MDs, it provides a preliminary insight on cognitive health later in life in MDs, while most previous studies examine the health of younger MDs. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to examine these associations and investigate if associations are modified by sex. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1250–1255, 2020.
Rheology of starch dispersions at high temperatures
Authors: Ahuja Amit , Lee Reginald , Latshaw Alina , Foster Peter
Published: February 2020

In the food industry, many food products experience extreme processing conditions of high temperature and high shear stresses. The measurements of sample behavior for water‐based formulations above 100°C is extremely challenging due to changes in material composition from the boiling of volatile ingredients. We have developed a high‐sensitivity, pressurized starch pasting cell (up to 5 bar) which utilizes a design free of mechanical bearings and seals, resulting in an order‐of‐magnitude improvement in torque sensitivity (1 μN.m in oscillatory and 10 μN.m in shear flows) compared to traditional pressure cells. A pressurized atmosphere in the cell suppresses boiling of the volatile components, allowing the characterization of the structure–property relationships of the sample over a range of testing conditions (−5 to 150°C) which simulate industrial processing and storage conditions. This cell is employed to investigate the pasting properties of a commercial starch dispersed in water. In situ gelatinization of starch dispersions of varying starch particle weight fractions (ϕ) subjected to a high temperature (120°C) at elevated pressure and at a fixed shear rate is studied. A phase transition, from an initial flowable starch slurry to a paste, takes place during which the viscosity evolves by several orders of magnitude. Typical parameters associated with the viscosity evolution during gelatinization such as onset temperature, peak temperature, and peak viscosity are analyzed to probe the impact of high temperature on the gelation process and the rheological properties of the final starch paste. Furthermore, yield stresses of the final paste, measured at 120°C, are examined for varying ϕ through traditional rheological methods such as flow ramps, oscillatory shear, and stress growth, demonstrating the capabilities of this cell for studies of steady shear and nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of the starch pastes. The yield stress values are found to be in good agreement when comparing various testing methods. Yield stresses range from 0.25 to 6.5 Pa for ϕ between 0.05 and 0.15, with 0.05 being the minimum starch weight fraction for which there is any measurable yield stress. The yield stress and the paste viscosity both scale with starch particle weight fraction as (ϕ − ϕc)
m, where ϕc = 0.04 as no yield stress is observed for ϕ ≤ 0.04. The exponent, m, for yield stress is found to be in the range of 1.15–1.4 depending on the analytical method used and the definition of yield stress while for peak and breakdown viscosities it is noted to be 1.6 and 1.1, respectively. The Herschel‐Bulkley model is found to fit the flow curves well. The starch pastes are found to exhibit shear‐thinning and significant thixotropic behavior.
The amount of liver fat predicts mortality and development of type 2 diabetes in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Nasr Patrik , Fredrikson Mats , Ekstedt Mattias , Kechagias Stergios
Published: February 2020

Background & Aims

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a risk factor for development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We aimed to evaluate whether conventional histological grading of steatosis and accurate quantification of fat content in liver biopsies using stereological point counting (SPC) can predict mortality and future development of T2DM in NAFLD patients.

Methods

129 patients with biopsy proven NAFLD, enrolled between 1988 and 1992, were re‐evaluated on two occasions, after 13.7 (±1.5) and 23.2 (±6.8) years. In patients accepting to undergo the procedure, repeat liver biopsies were performed on each follow‐up and were evaluated with conventional histopathological methodology and SPC.

Results

Of the 106 patients without T2DM at baseline, 66 (62%) developed T2DM during a mean follow‐up of 23.2 (± 6.8) years. Steatosis grade and liver fat measured with SPC independently (adjusted for age, BMI, fibrosis stage) predicted development of T2DM with an aHR of 1.60 per grade and 1.03 for each SPC percentage increase respectively. Overall mortality and development of T2DM was more common in patients with grade 3 steatosis compared to lower grades of steatosis. Liver fat measured with SPC was significant for overall mortality (aHR 1.04). In patients that underwent repeat biopsy, reduction in liver fat measured with SPC was associated with decreased risk of developing T2DM (aHR 0.91 for each SPC percentage decrease).

Conclusion

Steatosis grade and liver fat measured with SPC predict mortality and the risk of developing T2DM in NAFLD. Reduction in liver fat decreases the risk of developing T2DM.
Fatty liver is not independently associated with the rates of complete response to oral antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Li Jie , Le An K. , Chaung Kevin T. , Henry Linda , Hoang Joseph K. , Cheung Ramsey , Nguyen Mindie H.
Published: February 2020

Background & aims

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are common liver diseases. Concurrent NAFLD may affect antiviral treatment outcomes in CHB patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of NAFLD on complete viral suppression ([CVS], HBV DNA <20‐100 IU/mL) and/or biochemical response ([BR], ALT of ≤25 U/L for females; 35 U/L for males) in CHB patients who received oral antiviral therapy.

Methods

A retrospective study of 555 treated CHB patients (187 NAFLD; 368 non‐NAFLD) from 2000 to 2016 at a USA medical centre. NAFLD was diagnosed by imaging and/or histology after ruling out secondary causes of hepatic steatosis.

Results

The majority of patients were male (60.7%), Asian (87.56%) and HBeAg‐negative (66.7%). NAFLD patients compared to non‐NAFLD were more likely HBeAg negative (74.3% vs 62.8%, P = .02), hypertensive (33.2% vs 22.8%, P = .009) and male (67.4% vs 57.3%, P = .02) with a higher mean BMI (25.4 ± 4.3 vs 23.8 ± 4.0 kg/m2, P < .001). Both cohorts achieved similar rates of CVS (86% vs 88%) and BR (38% vs 41%) during the follow‐up of up to 60 months (P > .05), but NAFLD had higher cumulative rates of CVS + BR, compared with non‐NAFLD patients (32.5% vs 22.8%, P = .03). In multivariate analyses, NAFLD was not independently associated with CVS and/or BR outcomes. Receipt of entecavir or tenofovir (vs older therapies) and lower baseline HBV DNA or higher ALT were positively associated with achieving CVS or BR.

Conclusion

Concomitant NAFLD had no impact on the long‐term rates of CVS and/or BR in treated CHB patients.
Association between plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 in young adulthood and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in midlife: CARDIA
Authors: Campbell Patrick T. , VanWagner Lisa B. , Colangelo Laura A. , Lewis Cora E. , Henkel Anne , Ajmera Veeral H. , Lloyd‐Jones Donald M. , Vaughan Douglas E. , Khan Sadiya S.
Published: February 2020

Background

Prior studies have demonstrated a cross‐sectional association between elevated plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, there are no prospective longitudinal assessments of the association between PAI‐1 and NAFLD. We aimed to describe the association between PAI‐1 levels in early adulthood with NAFLD in midlife.

Methods

Among the 5115 participants in the coronary artery risk development in young adults (CARDIA) study, participants were randomly selected from a subset that was free of obesity, diabetes and hypertension at the 1992‐1993 exam and attended the 2005‐2006 exam (n = 996). A subset of participants (n = 896) also had CT liver fat measured (2010‐2011). Participants with secondary causes of steatosis were excluded (n = 87). NAFLD was defined as liver attenuation ≤51 Hounsfield units. Logistic regression models assessed the association between PAI‐1 and NAFLD.

Results

Of 809 participants, 53% were female, 37% black with a mean age of 32 years. Median PAI‐1 level at 1st assessment (1992‐1993) was 23.4 ng/mL among participants with NAFLD vs 11.9 ng/mL among those without NAFLD (P < .0001). Median PAI‐1 level at 2nd assessment (2005‐2006) was 55.6 ng/mL among participants with NAFLD vs 19.5 ng/mL among those without NAFLD (P < .0001). Higher PAI‐1 levels were independently associated with NAFLD (1st assessment adjusted OR [AOR] 2.16 per 1 standard deviation higher log(PAI‐1) level (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.63‐2.85); 2nd assessment AOR 2.71 (95% CI 2.03‐3.61)).

Conclusions

Plasma PAI‐1 levels in young adulthood were independently associated with NAFLD in midlife. Further studies may indicate whether PAI‐1 plays a role in NAFLD pathophysiology.
Team diversity and individual performance
Authors: Homroy Swarnodeep , Soo Kwok Tong
Published: February 2020

Using a field experiment, we investigate the impact of working in a diverse team on team and individual performance. We find no short‐term effect of team diversity on team performance, but a positive (albeit small) effect on subsequent individual performance. In the latter case, it is diversity in terms of nationality which matters, not diversity in terms of gender or ability. Our results suggest that the gains from asymmetries in work teams are assimilated by individuals.
Behaviorally measured tactile sensitivity in the common bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus
Authors: Strahan Madelyn G. , Houser Dorian S. , Finneran James J. , Mulsow Jason , Crocker Daniel E.
Published: February 2020

Little research has been conducted on the somatosensory system of toothed whales and it remains uncertain how tactile sensitivity varies about their bodies. In this study, tactile sensitivity to high‐frequency (250‐Hz) displacement of the skin was quantified in three trained adult common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) using a vibratory device (tactor). The magnitude of skin displacement was controlled by varying the voltage to the tactor held against the skin surface with a constant force. Tactile thresholds were determined using an adaptive method of limits in which dolphins reported perception of the tactile stimulus by producing a whistle. Displacement thresholds ranged from 2.4 to 40 μm, with the greatest sensitivity found along the rostrum, melon, and blowhole. Sensitivity decreased caudally along the body, with the dorsal fin and tip of the fluke being the least sensitive locations tested. The results support hypotheses that the follicles on the dolphin rostrum are particularly important for perception. The reduction in tactile sensitivity at the appendages is consistent with their primary role in stabilization and locomotion compared to exploration or environmental sensing.
Mapping musical automatism: Further insights from epileptic high‐frequency oscillation analysis
Authors: Rini James , Ochoa Juan
Published: February 2020

As ictal semiology is increasingly understood to arise from epileptogenic networks, high‐frequency oscillation propagation patterns are helping elucidate networks relevant for surgical planning. Musical automatisms, a well‐documented but very rare phenomenon of epilepsy, have yet to be examined as a manifestation of high‐frequency propagation in the public literature. In our current study, we report a rare case intractable epilepsy with ictal humming whose epileptogenic zone was associated with the non‐dominant left anterior medial temporal region. Mapping our case's ictal semiology and high‐frequency propagation pattern both facilitated treatment and further supports prior observations that the rare phenomena of musical automatisms localize to a non‐dominant frontal‐temporal network rather than a specific cortical territory.
The force stability of tissue contact and lesion size index during radiofrequency ablation: An ex‐vivo study
Authors: Parwani Abdul S. , Hohendanner Felix , Bode David , Kuhlmann Stefan , Blaschke Florian , Lacour Philipp , Heinzel Frank R. , Pieske Burkert , Boldt Leif‐Hendrik
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is a commonly used tool in the invasive electrophysiology laboratory to treat a variety of rhythm disorders. Reliable creation of transmural ablation lesions is crucial for long‐term success. Lesion size index (LSI) is a multiparametric index that incorporates time, power, contact force (CF), and impedance data recorded during RF ablation in a weighted formula and has been shown to predict the extent of myocardial tissue lesions. Whether the force stability of contact influences lesion size in LSI‐guided ablations is unknown.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the force stability of contact on lesion size during LSI‐guided ablations in an ex‐vivo model.

Methods and Results

A total of 267 RF lesions (n = 6 hearts) were created on porcine myocardial slabs by using an open‐tip irrigated ablation catheter with the following settings: 35 W with either intermittent (varied between 0 and up to 20 g), variable (10 to 20 g), or constant tissue contact (15 g) in a perpendicular or parallel fashion (applied manually) up to a target LSI of either 5 or 6. Subsequently, lesion width and depth were determined. Lesion width was mainly influenced by catheter tip orientation and LSI, whereas lesion depth was mainly influenced by LSI alone. The force stability of catheter contact had no relevant impact on lesion width or depth.

Conclusion

The force stability of catheter contact has only little effect on lesion depth or width in LSI‐guided catheter ablation while the catheter orientation primarily affects lesion width.
School nurse reported supply and administration of naloxone in schools
Authors: McDonald Catherine C. , Pinto‐Martin Jennifer , Compton Peggy , Parikh Madeleine , Meisel Zachary F.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To describe school nurse reported naloxone supply and administration in Pennsylvania, as well as nurse and school‐level characteristics associated with naloxone availability.

Methods

Cross‐sectional, online survey with school nurses in Pennsylvania. Data were collected (3/14/18‐6/5/18) on school nurse demographic and professional characteristics, school characteristics, naloxone supply and administration, and when not available, reasons for not having a naloxone supply.

Results

A total of 362 school nurses met inclusion criteria, representing schools in 56 of the 67 Pennsylvania counties. Over half of the school nurses reported a naloxone supply in their school building (53.6%, n = 194). Additionally, 5.2% of those who had a naloxone supply reported that it had been administered in their school or at a school sponsored activity. The most common reasons for not having naloxone available included lack of support and the belief that naloxone was not needed in their school.

Conclusion

Although many school nurses reported having a naloxone supply in their school, and a small percentage reported administration, particular barriers to access and use remain.
Functional anatomy and xylem cavitation resistance of three species of monocotyledons grown on flooded substrates
Authors: Alemán‐Sancheschúlz Gilberto , Solano Eloy , Terrazas Teresa , López‐Portillo Jorge
Published: February 2020

There are few investigations that analyze the xylem functional anatomy of monocotyledons, as the methods have been developed for woody plants. This study describes the root, rhizome and aerial stem xylem anatomy and functional anatomy ofCanna indica,Cyperus papyrusandPhragmites communisgrown on flooded substrates; and it aims to evaluate the relationship between the xylem anatomy and its cavitation resistance. To calculate the indexes of vulnerability, mesomorphy, collapse and relative hydraulic conductivity in the three organs mentioned, the diameter, number of vessels per mm2, thickness of the walls and the length of the tracheal elements were recorded. In addition, the xylem specific conductivity of the aerial stem was measured with the pipette method, and its resistance to cavitation was determined experimentally by the air injection technique. The protoxylem is xeromorphic, it has longer vessel elements, smaller diameters, thin walls and scalariform perforation plates, whereas the metaxylem is mesomorphic, with shorter vessel elements, larger diameters, thicker walls and simple perforation plates. Both present low collapse resistance but have a high relative hydraulic conductivity.P. communisrecorded the highest cavitation resistance, and the number of vessels per mm2was related to xylem cavitation resistance inCanna indicaandCyperus papyrus. The experimental results of this investigation match partially the anatomical indexes and showed that the xylem of these species has a low specific conductivity and is more vulnerable to cavitation than that of other monocots.
Lessons from Japan marine stock enhancement and sea ranching programmes over 100 years
Authors: Kitada Shuichi
Published: February 2020

More than 26 billion juveniles of 180 marine species are released annually into the wild in over 20 countries, but the usefulness of this strategy remains unclear. Here, I analyse the effects of stocking by Japanese marine and salmon stock enhancement programmes and evaluate their efficacy through a Bayesian meta‐analysis of new and previously considered cases. The posterior mean recapture rate (±SD) was 8.3 ± 4.7%. Without considering personnel costs and negative impacts on wild populations, the mean economic efficiency was 2.8 ± 6.1, with many cases having values of 1 to 2. On the macro‐scale, the proportion of released seeds to total catch was 76 ± 20% for Japanese scallop, 28 ± 10% for abalone, 20 ± 5% for swimming crab, 13 ± 5% for kuruma prawn, 11 ± 4% for Japanese flounder and 7 ± 2% for red sea bream; according to these percentages, stocking effects were generally small, and population dynamics were unaffected by releases but dependent on the carrying capacity of the nursery habitat. All cases of Japanese releases, except for Japanese scallop, were probably economically unprofitable. Captive breeding reduces the fitness of hatchery fish in the wild. In addition, long‐term releases replace wild genes and may cause fitness decline in the recipient population when the proportion of hatchery fish is very high. Short‐term hatchery stocking can be useful, particularly for conservation purposes, but large‐scale programmes may harm the sustainability of populations. Nursery habitat recovery and fishing pressure reduction often outperform hatcheries in the long run.
Women and Buddhism in East Asian History: The Case of the Blood Bowl Sutra, Part I: China
Authors: Meeks Lori
Published: February 2020

This two‐part series examines an often‐overlooked aspect of Buddhist practice that was ubiquitous in late medieval and early modern China and Japan: cults to the Blood Bowl Sutra. According to the logic of this indigenous Chinese sutra, women are destined for a special hell composed of uterine blood, where they are to be punished for the pollution they produce during childbirth and/or menstruation. While cults to the Blood Bowl Sutra have mostly disappeared in modern times—and despite the fact that they have been largely forgotten, even by historians of East Asia—they were, by the 16th and 17th centuries, a common part of women's religious lives in both China and Japan. Cults to the Blood Bowl Sutra comprised a diverse set of practices that engaged concerns about female bodies, motherhood, filial piety, and suffering in hell. Part I focuses on the development of such cults in China, and Part II focuses on the cults' spread in Japan.
Home bias in divestment decisions of multinational corporations in the EU
Authors: Resmini Laura , Vittucci Marzetti Giuseppe
Published: February 2020

We empirically investigate the claim that multinational corporations (MNCs) suffer from a “home bias” in divestment decisions: MNCs prefer to divest from foreign subsidiaries because the “emotional involvement” and the commitment in divesting from domestic subsidiaries is larger. This issue has not been yet empirically explored in the economic literature, although it is quite recurrent in the political debate on MNCs and FDI. Using detailed company‐level data on the EU corporate groups during the economic crisis (2008–2014), we show that, in spite of prima facie empirical evidence of a home bias, the bias disappears when firm‐, country‐, and sector‐specific factors are accounted for.
DNA taxonomy of the potamid freshwater crabs from Northern Africa (Decapoda, Potamidae)
Authors: Marrone Federico , Vecchioni Luca , Deidun Alan , Mabrouki Youness , Arab Abdeslam , Arculeo Marco
Published: February 2020

The Mediterranean area, from southern Balkans to western Maghreb, is inhabited by the Potamon subgenus Euthelphusa, with three currently recognised species. The Maghrebian species P. (E.) algeriense is isolated from other Potamon species by the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert, and nearly no molecular data are currently available for this taxon. Present study investigated the mtDNA and nuDNA diversity in Potamon algeriense s.l. with the aims of exploring its molecular diversity pattern throughout its known distribution range, and testing the possible presence of cryptic taxa currently lumped under this binomen. The phylogenetic and DNA taxonomy analyses showed the presence of two well‐supported clades of species rank within P. algeriense s.l, with an eastern clade including the populations from Tunisia and Numidia, and a western, highly structured clade including the populations from central Algeria and Morocco. In agreement with a typical Maghrebian biogeographic pattern, the distribution of these two species shows a clear east–west divide, with a disjunction zone located in Kabylia, and a strong link between molecular diversity and segregation within different hydrographical basins is evident. The Maghreb thus proved to host an unexpectedly high genetic diversity of, and to constitute a biodiversity hot‐spot for, the Potamon subgenus Euthelphusa. In the light of the existence of two well‐characterised species currently lumped under P. algeriense s.l., and of their noteworthy molecular structuring, the status of Maghrebian Potamon populations should be re‐assessed for both the species present in the area, which are to be considered as independent management units.
The utility of ultrasound examination in cubital tunnel syndrome caused by heterotopic ossification
Authors: Jačisko Jakub , Sobotová Karolína , Mezian Kamal
Published: February 2020

This case presents the utility of ultrasound examination in diagnostics, providing accurate therapy and follow-up of entrapment syndrome of the ulnar nerve, caused by heterotopic ossification. The heterotopic ossifications were in this case presumably linked to a long-term working with a vibration sander.
Strategies in catalysts and electrolyzer design for electrochemical CO2reduction toward C2+products
Authors: Fan Lei , Xia Chuan , Yang Fangqi , Wang Jun , Wang Haotian , Lu Yingying
Published: February 2020

Recent progress about electrochemical CO2reduction toward C2+products is reviewed.
Intrinsic disorder controls two functionally distinct dimers of the master transcription factor PU.1
Authors: Xhani Suela , Lee Sangchoon , Kim Hye Mi , Wang Siming , Esaki Shingo , Ha Van L. T. , Khanezarrin Mahtab , Fernandez Giselle L. , Albrecht Amanda V. , Aramini James M. , Germann Markus W. , Poon Gregory M. K.
Published: February 2020

Distinct dimeric forms of PU.1 mutually antagonize to control the transcriptionally active dose via a disordered PEST domain.
PHOTACs enable optical control of protein degradation
Authors: Reynders Martin , Matsuura Bryan S. , Bérouti Marleen , Simoneschi Daniele , Marzio Antonio , Pagano Michele , Trauner Dirk
Published: February 2020

We present a modular approach to control the small molecule–mediated degradation of cellular proteins of interest using light.
Diversification insulates fisher catch and revenue in heavily exploited tropical fisheries
Authors: Robinson James P. W. , Robinson Jan , Gerry Calvin , Govinden Rodney , Freshwater Cameron , Graham Nicholas A. J.
Published: February 2020

Catch diversification, when fishers target several species of fish, can increase revenue and catch sizes in tropical fisheries.
SpoT Induces Intracellular
Salmonella
Virulence Programs in the Phagosome
Authors: Fitzsimmons Liam F. , Liu Lin , Kant Sashi , Kim Ju-Sim , Till James K. , Jones-Carson Jessica , Porwollik Steffen , McClelland Michael , Vazquez-Torres Andres
Published: February 2020

Pathogenic bacteria experience nutritional challenges during colonization and infection of mammalian hosts. Binding of the alarmone nucleotide guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) to RNA polymerase coordinates metabolic adaptations and virulence gene transcription, increasing the fitness of diverse Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as that of actinomycetes. Gammaproteobacteria such as
Salmonella
synthesize ppGpp by the combined activities of the closely related RelA and SpoT synthetases. Due to its profound inhibitory effects on growth, ppGpp must be removed; in
Salmonella
, this process is catalyzed by the vital hydrolytic activity of the bifunctional SpoT protein. Because SpoT hydrolase activity is essential in cells expressing a functional RelA, we have a very limited understanding of unique roles these two synthetases may assume during interactions of bacterial pathogens with their hosts. We describe here a SpoT truncation mutant that lacks ppGpp synthetase activity and all C-terminal regulatory domains but retains excellent hydrolase activity. Our studies of this mutant reveal that SpoT uniquely senses the acidification of phagosomes, inducing virulence programs that increase
Salmonella
fitness in an acute model of infection. Our investigations indicate that the coexistence of RelA/SpoT homologues in a bacterial cell is driven by the need to mount a stringent response to a myriad of physiological and host-specific signatures.
Isolation and Molecular Analysis of a NovelNeorickettsiaSpecies That Causes Potomac Horse Fever
Authors: Teymournejad Omid , Lin Mingqun , Bekebrede Hannah , Kamr Ahmed , Toribio Ramiro E. , Arroyo Luis G. , Baird John D. , Rikihisa Yasuko
Published: February 2020

Despite the detection ofNeorickettsiaspecies DNA sequences in various trematode species and their hosts, only threeNeorickettsiaspecies have been cell culture isolated and whole-genome sequenced and are known to infect mammals and/or cause disease. The molecular mechanisms that enable the obligatory intracellular bacteriumNeorickettsiato colonize trematodes and to horizontally transmit from trematodes to mammals, as well as the virulence factors associated with specific mammalian hosts, are unknown. Potomac horse fever (PHF) is a severe and acute systemic infectious disease of horses, with clinical signs that include diarrhea.Neorickettsia risticiiis the only known bacterial species that causes PHF. Ingestion of insects harboringN. risticii-infected trematodes by horses leads to PHF. Our discovery of a newNeorickettsiaspecies that causes PHF and whole-genome sequence analysis of this bacterium will improve laboratory diagnosis and vaccine development for PHF and will contribute to our understanding ofNeorickettsiaecology, pathogenesis, and biology.
BRASH syndrome
Authors: Srivastava Shaurya , Kemnic Tyler , Hildebrandt Kyle R
Published: February 2020

A 62-year-old woman with chronic kidney disease stage 4, sleep apnoea on continuous positive airway pressure and recent admission for acute-on-chronic diastolic heart failure presented to emergency room with weakness. She was hypotensive and had symptomatic bradycardia in the 30 s secondary to hyperkalaemia and beta-blockers, raising concern for BRASH syndrome. Antihypertensives were immediately held. Potassium-lowering agents (with calcium gluconate for cardiac stability) were begun, as were fluids and dopamine for vasopressor support. The patient was admitted to intensive care unit and electrophysiology was consulted. Over the next 2 days, the patient clinically improved: she remained off dopamine for over 24 hours; potassium levels and renal function improved; and heart rate stabilised in 60 s. The patient was eventually discharged and advised to avoid metolazone, bumetanide and carvedilol, with primary care provider and cardiology follow-up.
The CURE Protocol: evaluation and external validation of a new public health strategy for treating paediatric hydrocephalus in low-resource settings
Authors: Lepard Jacob R , Dewan Michael C , Chen Stephanie H , Bankole Olufemi B , Mugamba John , Ssenyonga Peter , Kulkarni Abhaya V , Warf Benjamin C
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Managing paediatric hydrocephalus with shunt placement is especially risky in resource-limited settings due to risks of infection and delayed life-threatening shunt obstruction. This study evaluated a new evidence-based treatment algorithm to reduce shunt-dependence in this context.

Methods

A prospective cohort design was used. The CURE Protocol employs preoperative and intraoperative data to choose between endoscopic treatment and shunt placement. Data were prospectively collected for 730 children in Uganda (managed by local neurosurgeons highly experienced in the protocol) and, for external validation, 96 children in Nigeria (managed by a local neurosurgeon trained in the protocol).

Results

The age distribution was similar between Uganda and Nigeria, but there were more cases of postinfectious hydrocephalus in Uganda (64.2% vs 26.0%, p<0.001). Initial treatment of hydrocephalus was similar at both centres and included either a shunt at first operation or endoscopic management without a shunt. The Nigerian cohort had a higher failure rate for endoscopic cases (adjusted HR 2.5 (95% CI 1.6 to 4.0), p<0.001), but not for shunt cases (adjusted HR 1.3 (0.5 to 3.0), p=0.6). Despite the difference in endoscopic failure rates, a similar proportion of the entire cohort was successfully treated without need for shunt at 6 months (55.2% in Nigeria vs 53.4% in Uganda, p=0.74).

Conclusion

Use of the CURE Protocol in two centres with different populations and surgeon experience yielded similar 6-month results, with over half of all children remaining shunt-free. Where feasible, this could represent a better public health strategy in low-resource settings than primary shunt placement.
Clinical and laboratory characteristics of clozapine-treated patients with schizophrenia referred to a national immunodeficiency clinic reveals a B-cell signature resembling common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)
Authors: Ponsford Mark James , Steven Rachael , Bramhall Kathyrn , Burgess Mathew , Wijetilleka Sonali , Carne Emily , McGuire Frances , Price Colin R , Moody Mo , Zouwail Soha , Tahir Tayyeb , Farewell Daniel , El-Shanawany Tariq , Jolles Stephen R A
Published: February 2020

Aims

An association between antibody deficiency and clozapine use in individuals with schizophrenia has recently been reported. We hypothesised that if clozapine-associated hypogammaglobulinaemia was clinically relevant this would manifest in referral patterns.

Methods

Retrospective case note review of patients referred and assessed by Immunology Centre for Wales (ICW) between January 2005 and July 2018 with extraction of clinical and immunological features for individuals with diagnosis of schizophrenia-like illness.

Results

1791 adult patients were assessed at ICW during this period; 23 patients had a psychiatric diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Principal indications for referral were findings of low calculated globulin and immunoglobulins. Clozapine was the single most commonly prescribed antipsychotic (17/23), disproportionately increased relative to reported use in the general schizophrenia population (OR 6.48, 95% CI: 1.79 to 23.5). Clozapine therapy was noted in 6/7 (86%) of patients subsequently requiring immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT). Marked reduction of class-switched memory B cells (CSMB) and plasmablasts were observed in clozapine-treated individuals relative to healthy age-matched controls. Clozapine duration is associated with CSMB decline. One patient discontinued clozapine, with gradual recovery of IgG levels without use of IgRT.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with enrichment of clozapine-treatment within schizophrenic individuals referred for ICW assessment over the last 13 years. These individuals displayed clinical patterns closely resembling the primary immunodeficiency common variable immunodeficiency, however appears reversible on drug cessation. This has diagnostic, monitoring and treatment implications for psychiatry and immunology teams and directs prospective studies to address causality and the wider implications for this patient group.
Behavior of asphalt mastics containing different materials as filler
Authors: Bastidas-Martínez Juan Gabriel , Rondón-Quintana Hugo Alexander , Muniz de Farias Márcio
Published: February 2020

The behavior of the asphalt mixture is mainly attributed to the performance of the asphalt mastic. Several studies have been performed to evaluate the behavior of mastics made with different fillers. Most researchers have added the filler by mass within the bitumen; however, this comparison may be more appropriate by volume. An experimental program was designed to evaluate the behavior of mastics produced with five different fillers (natural limestone, LS; hydrated lime, HL; Portland cement, PC; Linz-Donawitz steel slag, LDSS; and blast furnace slag, BFS), and were dosed by mass and volume. Penetration, softening point, viscosity, multiple stress creep and recovery test, and linear amplitude sweep test were performed. Results showed that analyzed asphalt mastic properties depend on dosage type performed and test type. Furthermore, HL, PC, BFS and LDSS mastics showed better performance compared to control LS mastic.
Tracking insect outbreaks: a case study of community-assisted moth monitoring using sex pheromone traps
Authors: Carleton R. Drew , Owens Emily , Blaquière Holly , Bourassa Stéphane , Bowden Joseph J. , Candau Jean-Noël , DeMerchant Ian , Edwards Sara , Heustis Allyson , James Patrick M.A. , Kanoti Alison M. , MacQuarrie Chris J.K. , Martel Véronique , Moise Eric R.D. , Pureswaran Deepa S. , Shanks Evan , Johns Rob C.
Published: February 2020

Insect outbreaks can cover vast geographic areas making it onerous to cost-effectively monitor populations to address management or ecological questions. Community science (or citizen science), which entails engaging the public to assist with data collection, provides a possible solution to this challenge for the spruce budworm ( Choristoneura fumiferana Clemens), a major defoliating pest in North America. Here, we lay out the Budworm Tracker Program, a contributory community science program developed to help monitor spruce budworm moths throughout eastern Canada. The program outsources free pheromone trap kits to volunteers who periodically check and collect moths from their traps throughout the budworm flight period, then return them in a prepaid envelope to the organizers. Over three years, the program engaged an average of 216–375 volunteers and yielded a data return rate of 68%–89%, for a total of 16 311–54 525 moths per year. Volunteer retention among years was 71%–89%. Data from this program offer compelling evidence for the range of long-distance moth dispersal. Although our program was designed for spruce budworm, this template could easily be adapted for forestry, urban forestry, and agricultural systems to monitor any of the numerous organisms for which there is an established trapping method.
Musings on the current status of HEP
Authors: Shifman M.
Published: February 2020

I give a brief review of theoretical high energy physics as we know it today in the general picture of quantum physics. Prospects for future developments are outlined.