bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life on the edge: habitat fragmentation limits expansion of a restored carnivore
Authors: Butler A. R. , Bly K. L. S. , Harris H. , Inman R. M. , Moehrenschlager A. , Schwalm D. , Jachowski D. S.
Published: June 2020

The successful recovery of imperiled species is dependent on knowledge of how demographic drivers mediate population growth and expansion. One of the largest species restoration projects has been the reintroduction of swift foxes Vulpes velox to southern Canada, where 947 foxes were released between 1983 and 1997. Swift foxes have since increased and expanded their range into northern Montana (USA), but have experienced a population decline and stall in recolonization over the past 10 years. The objective of this study was to estimate the survival and reproductive rates of swift foxes in northern Montana, which constitutes the southern edge of this population. In addition, we evaluated support for two different hypotheses of how environmental factors and several demographic factors influence survival. Although our length of monitoring was relatively short, we found that adult and juvenile annual survival rates were 54% and 74%, respectively, and fecundity was 0.85. We found the most support for the hypothesis that the percentage of native grassland at the 1‐km scale influenced survival and found that survival increased, on average, 2.1% for every 5% increase in grassland. Compared to previous estimates of swift fox population growth immediately following the release, our data suggest the population is currently stable. The long‐term successful recolonization and connectivity of swift fox populations in this region will likely be dependent on maintaining large tracts of contiguous grassland. Comparing the estimates of demographic rates among different points in space and time should help managers better understand the population dynamics and inform restoration strategies for recovering populations.
Habitat use by Neotropical mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae): vegetation structure and edge effects
Authors: Orlandin Elton , Santos Emili B , Schneeberger André H , Souza Vilmar O , Favretto Mario A
Published: June 2020

Knowing which habitats (e.g. forest interiors or edges) are used by mosquitos and their relationship with possible environmental changes can assist in the development of public policies for the prevention of mosquito‐borne disease epidemics. This study assessed the influence of abiotic factors and vegetation structure on a mosquito community in an Atlantic rainforest remnant frequented by humans. Biting mosquito collections were undertaken by two operators and carried out every 2 weeks between October 2014 and October 2015, during the afternoon, at three points within the forest: A1 (40 m from the edge), A2 (220 m from the edge) and A3 (270 m from the edge). A significant difference was found between tree circumference at breast height from the different areas, as well as in tree height. However, no significant difference in the analysed abiotic factors between areas was observed. The paired comparison of mosquito abundance between the sample areas indicated that area A3 was different from area A1. Additionally, the abundance of the analysed species (Aedes crinifer, Aedes scapularis, Aedes serratus, Psorophora ferox, Sabethes aurescens, Sabethes identicus, Trichoprosopon pallidiventer and Wyeomyia limai) increased with distance from the forest edge. This observation may suggest that the abundance of certain species may be indicative of the level of disturbance of a forest.
Is obesity in pregnancy associated with signs of chronic fetal hypoxia?
Authors: Åmark Hanna , Sirotkina Meeli , Westgren Magnus , Papadogiannakis Nikos , Persson Martina
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The prevalence of obesity in pregnancy is increasing worldwide. Maternal obesity increases risks of severe fetal and neonatal complications. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are unclear. One possible contributing factor could be chronic fetal hypoxia. The aim of this study was to compare placentas from women with and without obesity with respect to placental lesions, which could reflect compensatory mechanisms in response to chronic fetal hypoxia as well as lesions possibly leading to chronic fetal hypoxia. In addition, levels of erythropoietin in cord blood were compared between offspring of lean and obese women.

Material and methods

This cohort study included 180 women with uneventful, full‐term, singleton pregnancies, out of which 91 lean women had a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5‐24.9 kg/m2 and 89 women had obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Women were recruited at Södersjukhuset between 16 October 2018 and 2 December 2019. Placentas were investigated by two senior perinatal pathologists, who were blinded for maternal BMI. Cord blood was analyzed for levels of erythropoietin.

Results

Levels of erythropoietin in cord blood increased with maternal BMI (P = .01, β = 0.97, 95% CI 0.27‐1.68). There was no difference between placentas of obese and lean women in number of placental lesions reflecting chronic fetal hypoxia or in lesions that could possibly lead to chronic fetal hypoxia.

Conclusions

This study of term and uneventful pregnancies demonstrated a positive association between maternal obesity and concentrations of erythropoietin in cord blood at birth. This finding supports the hypothesis of chronic fetal hypoxia as a risk factor for complications in the pregnancies of obese women. There were no differences in lesions associated with hypoxia between placentas of obese and lean women.
Effect of preoperative topical nepafenac 0.1% on inflammatory response after uncomplicated cataract surgery in healthy subjects
Authors: Cagini Carlo , Cerquaglia Alessio , Pellegrino Adriana , Iannone Alessia , Lupidi Marco , Fiore Tito
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To determine the effect of preoperative topical Nepafenac administration on anterior chamber flare after uneventful cataract surgery in healthy subjects.

Methods

Prospective randomized clinical trial. Seventy‐three eyes of 73 healthy patients undergoing routine cataract surgery were randomized to receive (group A) topical nepafenac (1 mg/ml) or not to receive (group B) 1 drop 3 times per day for 3 days before surgery. All eyes received the same postoperative anti‐inflammatory therapy. Clinical outcome parameters such as best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, retinal central foveal thickness and aqueous flare were recorded preoperatively, 1, 15, 30 and 60 days after surgery.

Results

Three patients were excluded for poor compliance, and three patients were excluded or developing pseudophakic macular oedema during the follow‐up. Both groups were comparable for age, gender, and showed similar BCVA, intraocular pressure and central macular thickness values preoperatively and during the entire follow‐up (p > 0.01). Aqueous flare values showed a statistically increase in both groups respect to preoperative values through follow‐up evaluations (p < 0.01), while values were significantly lower in group A than in group B 30 days after surgery (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Preoperative administration of topical Nepafenac reduces the inflammatory response in healthy patients undergoing uncomplicated cataract surgery one month after surgery respect to non‐treated group.
Effect of solid–liquid separation on anaerobic digestion of dairy manure in semi‐continuous stirred tank reactors: Process performance and digestate characteristics
Authors: Qi Guangdou , Pan Zhifei , Andriamanohiarisoamanana Fetra J. , Yamashiro Takaki , Iwasaki Masahiro , Ihara Ikko , Umetsu Kazutaka
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of solid–liquid separation on anaerobic digestion of dairy manure in semi‐continuous stirred tank reactors. Reactors fed with liquid fraction of dairy manure (screened liquid manure) were kept in water baths at mesophilic (Run 1) and thermophilic (Run 3) temperatures, respectively, while reactors fed with water diluted manure and kept at mesophilic (Run 2) and thermophilic (Run 4) temperatures as control reactors. The performances of reactors were compared in terms of biogas and methane production, and digestate characteristics. The methane yields obtained from screened manure were higher than those from diluted manure at both mesophilic and thermophilic temperatures, while the highest methane yield was 185 L/kg VSadded under thermophilic temperature. Solid–liquid separation also had improved the effect on digestate fertilizer characteristics. Among four digestates from reactors, the highest contents of nutrients, N (4.12 g/kg) and P (2.36 g/kg) were found in Run 3, while the highest content of K (3.42 g/kg) was found in Run 1. These results showed the benefits of solid–liquid separation of dairy manure on process performance and digestate characteristics.
Military Reform in the Post‐New Order Indonesia: A Transitional or a New Subtle Role in Indonesian Democracy?
Authors: Kosandi Meidi , Wahono Subur
Published: June 2020

This article examines the role of the military in Indonesian democracy since 1998. After 20 years of democratic reforms, it appears that the military has not executed all necessary reform agendas toward a professional military. Using qualitative research, this article questions how the new form of military role in politics was formed and how it contributes to the formation of Indonesian democracy today. It argues that the historical process of political interactions between actors has affected the formation of civil‐military relations. Indonesian military successfully maintained its power and leverage in politics by securitization and elegant power play with the elites. Civilian elites had to leave military reform agenda to the military and accept their dependence on military support to secure power. This situation has so far ensured military informal power and halted reform for professional military.
Living with persistent insomnia after cancer: A qualitative analysis of impact and management
Authors: Reynolds‐Cowie Paul , Fleming Leanne
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To conduct a qualitative exploration of the lived experience of insomnia disorder and its management amongst a sample of mixed‐diagnoses cancer survivors.

Methods

Twenty‐seven cancer survivors with persistent insomnia were recruited to this qualitative study following completion of treatment for breast (12), prostate (7), colorectal (7), and gynaecological (1) cancers. Eleven males and 16 females (mean age 62 years), who met DSM‐5 criteria for insomnia disorder, contributed to one of four focus group discussions, designed to explore the lived experience of persistent insomnia and its management within cancer care services.

Results

Poor sleep was a persistently troubling complaint for participants, long after the completion of active cancer treatment. The impact of insomnia was significant for all participants, with six key domains emerging as those most affected: temperament, sociability, physical well‐being, cognitive functioning, relationships, and psychological well‐being. In terms of insomnia management, participants frequently resorted to unfruitful self‐management strategies, due to the lack of professional insomnia expertise within cancer care settings. Three main themes emerged in relation to insomnia management: self‐management, seeking professional intervention, and a lack of focus on sleep. A lack of clinician understanding of the importance of sleep health and the poor availability of evidence‐based insomnia interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐i), were highlighted as important gaps in cancer care.

Conclusions

Insomnia was found to have a detrimental and pervasive impact on cancer survivors’ quality of life, which persisted long into survivorship. There is an absence of professional attention to sleep throughout the cancer care trajectory, contributing to its prevalence, persistence, and impact. In order to break this cycle, sleep health should be integrated as a key aspect of cancer treatment and rehabilitation, much like maintaining a healthy diet and appropriate levels of physical activity.
Management of benign prostatic hyperplasia in the 21st century: temporal trends in Australian population‐based data
Authors: Morton Andrew , Williams Michael , Perera Marlon , Teloken Patrick E. , Donato Peter , Ranasinghe Sachinka , Chung Eric , Bolton Damien , Yaxley John , Roberts Matthew J.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To examine national trends in the medical and surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) population data from 2000 to 2018.

Patients and methods

Annual data was extracted from the MBS, PBS and Australian Institute of Health and Welfare databases for the years 2000–2018. Population‐adjusted rates of BPH procedures and medical therapies were calculated and compared in relation to age. Cost analysis was performed to estimate financial burden due to BPH.

Results

Overall national hospital admissions due to BPH declined between 2000 and 2018, despite an increased proportion of admissions due to private procedures (42% vs 77%). Longitudinal trends in the medical management of BPH showed an increased prescription rate of dutasteride/tamsulosin combined therapy (111 vs 7649 per 100 000 men) and dutasteride monotherapy (149 vs 336 per 100 000 men) since their introduction to the PBS in 2011. Trends in BPH surgery showed an overall progressive increase in rate of total procedures between 2000 and 2018 (92 vs 133 per 100 000 men). Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) remained the most commonly performed surgical procedure, despite reduced utilisation since 2009 (118 vs 89 per 100 000 men), offset by a higher uptake of photoselective vaporisation of prostate, holmium:YAG laser enucleation of prostate, and later likely due to minimally invasive surgical therapies including prostatic urethral lift and ablative technologies (including Rezūm™). Financial burden due to BPH surgery has remained steady since 2009, whilst the burden due to medical therapy has risen sharply.

Conclusion

Despite reduced national BPH‐related hospitalisations, overall treatment for BPH has increased due to medical therapy and surgical alternatives to TURP. Further exploration into motivators for particular therapies and effect of medical therapy on BPH progression in clinical practice outside of clinical trials is warranted.
6‐Nitro‐1‐benzylquinolones exhibiting specific antitubercular activity
Authors: Beteck Richard M. , Jordaan Audrey , Swart Tarryn , Van Der Kooy Frank , Warner Digby F. , Hoppe Heinrich C. , Legoabe Lesetja J.
Published: June 2020

In this study, we synthesized novel nitro quinolone‐based compounds and tested them in vitro against a panel of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative pathogens including Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli for antibacterial activities and also against HeLa cells for overt cytotoxicity. Compound 8e was identified as a non‐toxic, potent hit with selective activity (MIC90 ˂ 0.24 µm) against MTB. 8e, however, showed no activity against DprE1 mutant, suggesting DprE1 as the likely target for this compound class.
Novel PCNT variants in MOPDII with attenuated growth restriction and pachygyria
Authors: Waich Stephanie , Janecke Andreas R. , Parson Walther , Greber‐Platzer Susanne , Müller Thomas , Huber Lukas A. , Valovka Taras , Vodopiutz Julia
Published: June 2020

Biallelic loss‐of‐function mutations in the centrosomal pericentrin gene (PCNT) cause microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPDII), which is characterized by extreme growth retardation, microcephaly, skeletal dysplasia, and dental anomalies. Life expectancy is reduced due to a high risk of cerebral vascular anomalies. Here, we report two siblings with MOPDII and attenuated growth restriction, and pachygyria. Compound heterozygosity for two novel truncated PCNT variants was identified. Both truncated PCNT proteins were expressed in patient's fibroblasts, with a reduced total protein amount compared to control. Patient's fibroblasts showed impaired cell cycle progression. As a novel finding, 20% of patient's fibroblasts were shown to express PCNT comparable to control. This was associated with normal mitotic morphology and normal co‐localization of mutated PCNT with centrosome‐associated proteins γ‐tubulin and centrin 3, suggesting some residual function of truncated PCNT proteins. These data expand the clinical and molecular spectrum of MOPDII and indicate that residual PCNT function might be associated with attenuated growth restriction in MOPDII.
Multitier Incentive Strategies for Quality Improvement: Case of Three‐Tier Supply Chain
Authors: Yoo Seung Ho , Choi Thomas Y. , Kim DaeSoo
Published: June 2020

This study investigates a final assembler's (FA) incentive strategies for quality management in the multitier supply chain context. FAs often decide to manage a second‐tier supplier in a reactive way when the first‐tier supplier is unable to control the former. In our model, an FA proactively looks upstream to its first‐tier (S1) and second‐tier (S2) suppliers in a three‐tier supply chain. We develop four proactive strategies with incentives and one reactive strategy with no incentive. We find that, first, proactive strategies are better at improving quality, demand, and profit than reactive strategies are. Second, among proactive strategies, the parallel incentive strategy, centrally controlling both the S1 and S2, imposes the fewest restrictions. It yields superior quality and profit performance for the entire supply chain as well as for individual suppliers. Third, when the tiers are sequentially controlled, proactive incentive strategies promise superior profits for the FA if its unit profitability is not sufficiently high. Finally, the reactive strategy may be more appropriate if the FA's profitability is lower than that of the S1 or S2.
Asymptomatic chronic traumatic aortic valve perforation with severe aortic regurgitation
Authors: Bachani Neeta , Bagchi Avishek , Sinkar Kunal , Jadwani Jaipal , Dhirawani Bhavik , Shah Harshad Pradeep , Vichare Sanjeev , Pinto Brian
Published: June 2020

Here, we present a young asymptomatic male patient incidentally diagnosed to have aortic regurgitation (AR). The patient had a history of a blunt trauma to the thorax two years back but did never have any symptoms. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a moderately dilated left ventricle with normal systolic function and severe AR with normal nondilated aortic root and tri‐leaflet aortic valve. To diagnose the etiology of the AR, a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was done, which revealed a perforation in the nonadjacent leaflet (NAL) and confirmed severe AR with two AR jets being clearly visualized, one through the point of incomplete coaptation and other one through the perforated area in the NAL. The patient was treated with aortic valve replacement and was doing well on follow‐up.
Multiple intra‐cardiac masses: A life‐threatening complication of Behçet’s disease
Authors: Ramoğlu Mehmet Gökhan , Atalay Semra , Uçar Tayfun , Fitoz Suat , Özçakar Zeynep Birsin , Çiftçi Ergin , Tutar Ercan
Published: June 2020

The incidence of multiple intra‐cardiac masses is rare, and the differential diagnosis may be challenging sometimes. The most common etiologies of multiple intra‐cardiac masses are thrombus, vegetation, and tumors. Intra‐cardiac thrombus is more common in patients with central catheters, with a wall‐motion abnormality and global hypokinesis. Certain autoimmune disorders may favor the development of intra‐cardiac thrombus, and very rarely, multiple thrombi may be seen. Here, a patient with multiple intra‐cardiac masses in the right ventricle and diagnosed with Behçet's disease is presented.
Prediction of clinical outcomes beyond psychosis in the ultra‐high risk for psychosis population
Authors: Polari Andrea , Yuen Hok Pan , Amminger Paul , Berger Gregor , Chen Eric , deHaan Lieuwe , Hartmann Jessica , Markulev Connie , McGorry Patrick , Nieman Dorien , Nordentoft Merete , Riecher‐Rössler Anita , Smesny Stefan , Stratford John , Verma Swapna , Yung Alison , Lavoie Suzie , Nelson Barnaby
Published: June 2020

Aim

Several prediction models have been introduced to identify young people at greatest risk of transitioning to psychosis. To date, none has examined the possibility of developing a clinical prediction model of outcomes other than transition. The aims of this study were to examine the association between baseline clinical predictors and outcomes including, but not limited to, transition to psychosis in young people at risk for psychosis, and to develop a prediction model for these outcomes.

Methods

Several evidence‐based variables previously associated with transition to psychosis and some important clinical comorbidities experienced by ultra‐high risk (UHR) individuals were identified in 202 UHR individuals. Secondary analysis of the Neurapro clinical trial were conducted to investigate the associations between these variables and favourable (remission and recovery) or unfavourable (transition to psychosis, no remission, any recurrence and relapse) clinical outcomes. Logistic regression, best subset selection, Akaike Information Criterion and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to seek the best prediction model for clinical outcomes from all combinations of possible predictors.

Results

When considered individually, only higher general psychopathology levels (P = .023) was associated with the unfavourable outcomes. Prediction models suggest that general psychopathology and functioning are predictive of unfavourable outcomes.

Conclusion

The predictive performance of the resulting models was modest and further research is needed. Nonetheless, when designing early intervention centres aiming to support individuals in the early phases of a mental disorder, the proper assessment of general psychopathology and functioning should be considered in order to inform interventions and length of care provided.
Exploration of symptom dimensions and duration of untreated psychosis within a staging model of schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: Berendsen Steven , Van Henricus L. , van der Paardt Jasper W. , de Peuter Olav R. , van Bruggen Marion , Nusselder Hans , Jalink Margje , Peen Jaap , Dekker Jack J. M. , de Haan Lieuwe
Published: June 2020

Aim

Clinical staging of schizophrenia entails a new method that identifies clusters of symptoms and variation in level of remission, with the goal to create a framework for early intervention. Additionally, duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) may influence symptom severity in the first episode of psychosis (FEP) and could necessitate refining of the staging model. However, consistent evidence concerning variation in symptom severity and DUP between stages is missing. Therefore, we evaluated the clinical validity of the staging model by investigating differences in symptom severity across stages in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Second, we assessed if a prolonged DUP is associated with higher symptom severity in FEP.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of 291 acutely admitted patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Patients were assigned to clinical stages following the definition of McGorry. Symptom severity was evaluated with the new DSM‐5 Clinician‐Rated Dimensions of Psychosis Symptom Severity (CRDPSS). In FEP, we determined the DUP.

Results

Significantly higher severity scores of CRDPSS items hallucinations (H = 14.34, df = 4, P‐value = .006), negative symptoms (H = 19.678, df = 4, P‐value = .001) and impaired cognition (H = 26.294, df = 4, P‐value = <.001) were found in more advanced stages of disease. Moreover, patients with FEP and a DUP longer than 1 year showed significantly more severe negative symptoms (U = 314 000, P = .015) compared to patients with a DUP shorter than 1 year.

Conclusions

The present study found supporting evidence for the clinical validity of the staging model in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. In addition, we found support for refining the stage “first episode” with information concerning the DUP.
The geologist down your street: three famous geologists from a small town in Lancashire, England
Authors: Murphy Phillip J.
Published: June 2020

The town of Colne in Pennine east Lancashire, northern England—once a centre of the textiles trade—is now best known locally as the home of Boundary Mill ‘shopping experience’. But there is more to the town than meets the eye, including three significant geologists.
Pinched between the plates: Armenia's voluminous record of volcanic activity
Authors: Halama Ralf , Meliksetian Khachatur , Savov Ivan P. , Sugden Patrick J. , Sokół Krzysztof
Published: June 2020

Located in the heart of the Lesser Caucasus mountains, where the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide, Armenia occupies an exceptional geological position shaped through millions of years of subduction and collision. It is a unique place on the Earth recording extensive intrusive and volcanic activity related to the long‐standing continental convergence. The volcanoes of Armenia provide a rare opportunity to study the sources and processes involved in this unusual type of magmatism. More than 500 Quaternary volcanoes have been mapped in Armenia, most of them formed from single eruptive episodes. Among several large composite volcanoes, the mighty Aragats stands out as the largest volcano in Armenia and the region altogether. Volcanic deposits testify to the range of eruptive styles—from the ignimbrites formed in eruptions as explosive and voluminous as any seen globally in the modern era to the enormous fissure‐fed lava flows that form the Southern Caucasus flood basalt province, the smallest and youngest Large Igneous Province in the world. Several pre‐historical and historical eruptions have been documented, highlighting the potential for future volcanic activity in the region. In recent years, research has focused on the volcanic hazards associated with the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant, located in the foothills of Aragats volcano. This article highlights some of the extraordinary volcanic and intrusive features observed in Armenia and summarizes aspects of recent volcanological and petrological research.
Undifferentiated endometrial carcinoma arising in the background of high‐grade endometrial carcinoma – Expanding the definition of dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Busca Aurelia , Parra‐Herran Carlos , Nofech‐Mozes Sharon , Djordjevic Bojana , Ismiil Nadia , Cesari Mathew , Nucci Marisa R , Mirkovic Jelena
Published: June 2020

Dedifferentiated endometrial adenocarcinoma (DEC) is defined by the coexistence of undifferentiated carcinoma with low‐grade (FIGO grade 1 or 2) endometrioid carcinoma. Few cases of DEC arising in the background of high‐grade carcinoma (DEC‐HG) have been reported, however, this phenomenon is poorly characterized. In this study we describe the morphologic, immunohistochemical and clinico‐pathologic characteristics of DEC‐HG. 18 DECs were diagnosed at our institution between 2008‐2019, and in 11 (61%), the undifferentiated component was associated with high‐grade carcinoma (8 endometrioid FIGO grade 3, 2 with ambiguous features, 1 serous). The remaining 7 (39%) represented DEC‐LG (3 FIGO grade 1 and 4 FIGO grade 2). 7/11 (64%) patients with DEC‐HG presented with advanced stage (FIGO stage III/IV), whereas most with DEC‐LG (6/7, 86%) were stage I. On follow up, 2 patients in the DEC‐HG group died of disease and 2 had progressive disease within 2 months of surgery. There was only one recurrence in the DEC‐LG, 6 months post‐surgery. The DEC component in both groups showed similar morphology and immunophenotype, with predominantly focal or complete loss of expression of pan‐keratin, EMA, E‐cadherin, CK8/18, PAX8 and ER. The DEC component in the DEC‐HG group had wild‐type p53 expression in 8/11 (73%) cases, loss of MLH1 and PMS2 in 6/11 (55%) and loss of SMARCA4 in 3/9 (33%). Although numbers are small, we show that DEC‐HG is a previously under‐recognized phenomenon, with morphologic and immunophenotypic similarities to DEC‐LG, which supports expanding the definition of DEC to include DEC‐HG. DEC‐HG may be more aggressive than DEC‐LG.
Synthesis and characterization of CeO2/Bi2O3/gC3N4 ternary Z‐scheme nanocomposite
Authors: Devi K R Sunaja , Mathew Sandra , Rajan Revathy , Georgekutty Josna , Pinheiro Dephan , U Ananthapadmanabhan , M Sundararajan
Published: June 2020

An effective and facile phytogenic method was used to prepare CeO2/Bi2O3 and CeO2/Bi2O3/gC3N4 composites using Eichhornia crassipes phytoextract. The synthesized catalysts were characterized using techniques such as XRD, FTIR, UV‐DRS, PL, SEM‐EDAX, XPS, zeta potential, and TGA. These catalysts showed diverse photocatalytic and optical properties due to the alteration in the bandgap. The synthesized composites exhibited good photocatalytic activity by degrading Malachite green (MG) dye. The increase in the photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the p‐n heterojunction of the catalysts with efficient charge separation and strong oxidative ability. The modified photocatalysts showed excellent catalytic activity and reusability under visible light. The superior efficiency and its applications in environmental remediation make these catalysts a potential candidate for photocatalysis.
Identifying geographic differences in children's sugar‐sweetened beverage and 100% fruit juice intake using health system data
Authors: Palakshappa Deepak , Lenoir Kristin , Brown Callie L. , Skelton Joseph A. , Block Jason P. , Taveras Elsie M. , Lewis Kristina H.
Published: June 2020

Background

Identifying areas with higher sugar‐sweetened beverage intake could help tailor policy and public health efforts intended to reduce sugary beverage consumption.

Objective

Demonstrate the feasibility of using health system data to examine the geographic distribution of sugar‐sweetened beverage intake and evaluate neighbourhood characteristics associated with intake.

Methods

We extracted electronic health record data from a sugar‐sweetened beverage and 100% fruit juice screener used for children ages 1 to 17 years in eight pediatric practices in North Carolina (March 2017‐2018) and dichotomized intake to high (≥3 sugar‐sweetened beverages/day) vs not. We geocoded address and mapped the proportion of consumers in each census tract. We combined electronic health record data with US census data and evaluated associations of census tract income and race/ethnicity with intake. We used multivariable models to evaluate the association between geographic concentrations of income and race/ethnicity and sugar‐sweetened beverage intake, controlling for demographics extracted from the electronic health record and clustering by tract.

Results

Of 19 451 patients, 4579 (23.5%) reported consuming ≥3 sugar‐sweetened beverages/day. In multivariable models, children living in tracts with high concentrations of low‐income (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.26, 1.68) and non‐white residents (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.71) were more likely to consume ≥3 sugar‐sweetened beverages/day than children in tracts with a high concentration of high‐income and white residents.

Conclusion

We demonstrate how health system data could be used to characterize geographic variation in sugar‐sweetened beverage and 100% fruit juice consumption. This approach could help target public health efforts and monitor the effects of community‐level interventions.
Childhood emotional and behavioral characteristics are associated with soda intake: A prospective study in Mexico City
Authors: Wang Zeyuan , Jansen Erica C. , Miller Alison L. , Peterson Karen E. , Téllez‐Rojo Martha M. , Watkins Deborah , Schnaas Lourdes , del Carmen Hernandez Chavez Maria , Cantoral Alejandra
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To evaluate whether childhood emotional and behavioral characteristics are associated with soda intake.

Methods

The study population included 391 Mexico City adolescents enrolled in a birth cohort study. When children were between 6 and 12 years of age, the Behavioral Assessment System for Children (BASC)‐2 was administered. Nondiet soda intake was measured concurrently and again when participants were of peripubertal ages via food frequency questionnaire. Linear regression models were run with soda mL/day (cross‐sectional and change in soda over time) as the outcome and BASC composite scores as predictors (in separate models), adjusting for confounders.

Results

At baseline, children were 8.3 (SD 1.3) years (49% males). Three scales out of 18 examined had statistically significant associations. Parent‐reported adaptive skills were inversely associated with concurrent soda intake (β = −2.29 with 95% CI −4.27 to −0.31). Parent‐reported internalizing problems (higher = more problems) were related to higher change in soda intake from childhood to adolescence (β = 5.83 with 95% CI 0.98‐10.68; N = 191). Self‐reported school problems were associated with a higher change in soda intake over time (β = 9.46 with 95% CI 2.10‐16.82; N = 122).

Conclusions

Parent‐ and self‐reported emotional and behavioral difficulties in childhood were associated with soda consumption and changes in soda consumption over time.
Financial exclusion in OECD countries: A scoping review*
Authors: Caplan Mary A. , Birkenmaier Julie , Bae Junghee
Published: June 2020

This scoping review assesses the state of scholarly literature on financial exclusion in OECD member countries to identify key concepts, gaps in the research, and types and sources of evidence to inform an agenda for advancing research, practice, and policy. The authors searched eight databases using 13 terms. The researchers extracted data for five concepts: financial inclusion conceptualization, financial inclusion measurement, financial inclusion mechanisms, financial exclusion conceptual, descriptive or empirical content, and financial capability conceptualization or measurement. This article reports on data coded only for financial exclusion conceptual, descriptive, or empirical content. The researchers identified N = 148 studies for inclusion. The majority of the studies were conceptual and were focused on either the USA or the UK. Aspects of financial exclusion that were well covered in the literature include the conceptualization, contributors, and impacts of financial exclusion. Less covered were measurement, prevention, and contemporary practice trends in financial exclusion.
COVID‐19 Infections and Deaths among Connecticut Nursing Home Residents: Facility Correlates
Authors: Li Yue , Temkin‐Greener Helena , Shan Gao , Cai Xueya
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To determine the associations of nursing home registered nurse (RN) staffing, overall quality of care, and concentration of Medicaid or racial and ethnic minority residents with 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) confirmed cases and deaths by April 16, 2020, among Connecticut nursing home residents.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional analysis on Connecticut nursing home (n = 215) COVID‐19 report, linked to other nursing home files and county counts of confirmed cases and deaths. Multivariable two‐part models determined the associations of key nursing home characteristics with the likelihood of at least one confirmed case (or death) in the facility, and with the count of cases (deaths) among facilities with at least one confirmed case (death).

SETTING

All Connecticut nursing homes (n = 215).

PARTICIPANTS

None.

INTERVENTION

None.

MEASUREMENTS

Numbers of COVID‐19 confirmed cases and deaths among residents.

RESULTS

The average number of confirmed cases was eight per nursing home (zero in 107 facilities), and the average number of confirmed deaths was 1.7 per nursing home (zero in 131 facilities). Among facilities with at least one confirmed case, every 20‐minute increase in RN staffing (per resident day) was associated with 22% fewer confirmed cases (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = .78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = .68–.89; P < .001); compared with one‐ to three‐star facilities, four‐ or five‐star facilities had 13% fewer confirmed cases (IRR = .87; 95% CI = .78–.97; P < .015), and facilities with high concentration of Medicaid residents (IRR = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.02–1.32; P = .025) or racial/ethnic minority residents (IRR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.03–1.29; P = .026) had 16% and 15% more confirmed cases, respectively, than their counterparts. Among facilities with at least one death, every 20‐minute increase in RN staffing significantly predicted 26% fewer COVID‐19 deaths (IRR = .74; 95% CI = I .55–1.00; P = .047). Other focused characteristics did not show statistically significant associations with deaths.

CONCLUSION

Nursing homes with higher RN staffing and quality ratings have the potential to better control the spread of the novel coronavirus and reduce deaths. Nursing homes caring predominantly for Medicaid or racial and ethnic minority residents tend to have more confirmed cases.
Declined use of cervical ripening balloon did not reduce the incidence of umbilical cord prolapse in Japan
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi , Sekizawa Akihiko , Arakaki Tatsuya , Ikeda Tomoaki , Ishiwata Isamu , Kinoshita Katsuyuki ,   Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (JAOG), Tokyo, Japan
Published: June 2020

Aim

To clarify whether the incidence of umbilical cord prolapse (UCP) at delivery is related to the cervical ripening balloon (CRB).

Methods

A postal questionnaire study was conducted in 2018 in institutions providing maternity services across Japan. Questions on the number of deliveries, labor inductions, used CRB and cases of UCP in 2017 were included. Because a similar questionnaire survey was conducted in 2012, the incidence of UCP and frequency of the use of CRB were compared.

Results

A total of 1354 answers were assessed (57% of all delivery institutions). The total number of deliveries was 490 279. Of these, 78% were transvaginal; 74 cases of UCP were reported (0.015%), while 13 cases were reported from obstetric facilities never using CRB (0.008%). The incidence of UCP (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]) was 0.036% in the intracervical type (4.3 [1.6–11.3]), 0.091% in the disk‐type (11.0 [4.2–29.0]) and 0.067% in the ball‐type (8.1 [2.8–22.8]). Frequencies of the use of CRB were 7.3% and 6.6% in the 2012 and 2018 surveys, respectively. The use of the intracervical type increased from 2.8% in the 2012 survey to 3.5% in the 2018 survey, while that of the disk‐type and ball‐type declined. However, the incidence of UCP was not different between the two surveys regardless of the use of cervical ripening balloons (0.014% vs 0.015% with CRB, 0.005% vs 0.008% without CRB).

Conclusion

Although the frequency of CRB use significantly declined, the incidence of UCP did not significantly reduce in the last 5 years.
Hysteroscopic management of omentum incarceration secondary to uterine perforation: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Procas‐Ramon Beatriz , Polo‐Oliveros Laura , Gabasa‐Gorgas Lourdes , Remacha‐Sienes María , Sobreviela‐Laserrada Mercedes
Published: June 2020

Uterine perforation is a potential complication of intrauterine procedures that can be associated with vascular or visceral injury. We report the case of a 35‐year‐old woman diagnosed with omentum incarceration, secondary to a uterine perforation, during a dilatation and curettage. This rare complication was successfully managed by release of incarcerated omentum hysteroscopically. Sealing of uterine wall defect was achieved by administration of intravenous uterotonic drugs, thus, avoiding a major surgery. In conclusion, this is a novel approach to a case of uterine omental incarceration. To date, there are few cases reported in the literature and only one of them was managed by hysteroscopy. Hysteroscopy alone or combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach when needed, should be attempted in such cases as it is safe and minimally invasive.
The immune adjuvant effect of Astragalus polysaccharide on in ovo injection of Newcastle disease vaccine
Authors: Xue Ligang , Wang Dan , Zhang Dongxing , Ju Anqi , Duan Aoyi , Xing Junhong , Qin Yanjun , Yang Shubao , Luan Weimin
Published: June 2020

In this study, immunogenic efficacies of in ovo administration of Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) along with live Newcastle disease vaccine (live ND vaccine) (live VG/GA strain) were evaluated. Four hundred fertilized eggs were randomly divided into four groups (n = 100/group), and vaccinated in ovo, respectively, with solutions of APS, live ND vaccine, live ND vaccine combined with APS, and 0.9% physiological saline into their amniotic fluid on d 18.5 of incubation. Significant improvement of chicks’ development was displayed in those vaccinated with live ND vaccine adjuvanted with APS in ovo, manifested as enhanced hatchability and gaining weight. Moreover, in ovo administration of live NDV vaccine plus APS could significantly enhance the serum anti‐NDV antibody titres and interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4 and IL‐6 concentrations, promote lymphocyte proliferative capability as well as improve the frequencies of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood. Overall results indicated in ovo administration of live ND vaccine adjuvanted with APS could stimulate stronger humoral and cellular responses in newly hatched chicks.
Measures of Cross‐Dependence for Bidimensional Periodic AR(1) Model with α‐Stable Distribution
Authors: Grzesiek Aleksandra , Giri Prashant , Sundar S. , WyŁomańska Agnieszka
Published: June 2020

Discrete‐time models with periodic behavior are useful for the description of different phenomenon. The most popular time series taking into consideration the periodicity of the real data is the periodic autoregressive moving average (PARMA) model. The PARMA models were considered in the literature from a theoretical and practical point of view. Most of the considerations related to the PARMA models are based on the assumption of the Gaussian (or finite‐variance) distribution of the noise. However, in many applications, the Gaussian distribution seems to be inappropriate. Thus, generalized models are considered. The natural extension of the Gaussian distribution is the ‐stable one which is a perfect distribution for the modeling of real data with large observations. However, for the ‐stable‐based models the classical methods adequate to Gaussian‐based systems cannot be used. The main problem comes from the fact that, in general, for the ‐stable based models the covariance cannot be applied as a measure of dependence. Thus, alternative measures are used. In this article, we consider the generalization of the classical PARMA models and take into consideration the ‐stable PAR system. Moreover, we analyze the bidimensional version of the univariate model and examine its structure of cross‐dependence in the language of the alternative cross‐dependence measures appropriate for the infinite‐variance systems. As the main result, we prove that the ratio of two considered alternative cross‐dependence measures tends to the stability index of the noise distribution. This result is the continuation of the authors' previous research where a similar study was performed for one‐dimensional models based on the ‐stable distribution. Moreover, in the authors' recent papers the stationary bidimensional time series models were considered in the same direction. Finally, we propose a possible application of the introduced methodology.
Amyloid‐beta plasma and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in aged dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome
Authors: Stylianaki Ioanna , Polizopoulou Zoe S. , Theodoridis Alexandros , Koutouzidou Georgia , Baka Rania , Papaioannou Nikolaos G.
Published: June 2020

Background

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a common progressive neurodegenerative disease that is poorly defined. Specific multitargeted protocols do not exist for setting the diagnosis and the prognosis of the syndrome.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To quantify Aβ42 and Aβ40 peptides in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and to investigate their contribution to CCDS.

Animals

A total of 61 dogs from a hospital population.

Methods

Case‐control study. Six young (YG: 0‐4 years old), 8 middle‐aged (4‐8 years old), 17 cognitively unimpaired and aged (CU: 8‐20 years old), and 30 cognitively impaired and aged (CI: 8‐17 years). From the CI group, 10 dogs exhibited mild impairment (CI‐MCI) and 20 exhibited severe impairment (CI‐SCI). Cognitive status was assessed using a validated owner‐based questionnaire. Direct and indirect Aβ markers were determined in plasma fractions (total‐TP, free‐FP, bound to plasma components‐CP) and CSF using commercial ELISA assays (AΒtest, Araclon Biotech).

Results

TPAβ42/40 facilitated discrimination between CI‐MCI and CU aged dogs with area under curve ≥ 0.79. CSFAβ42 levels were higher (P= .09) in CU (1.25 ± 0.28 ng/mL) than in MCI (1.04 ± 0.32 ng/mL) dogs. CSF Aβ42 levels were correlated with the CP fragment (CPAβ40:P= .02, CPAβ42:P= .02). CPAβ42 was higher in the CI‐MCI (23.03 ± 11.79 pg/μL) group compared to the other aged dogs (CU: 10.42 ± 7.18 pg/μL,P= .02, SCI: 11.40 ± 12.98 pg/μL,P= .26).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

The Aβ should be determined in all of the 3 plasma fractions (TP, FP, CP). In the clinical approach, TPAβ42/40 could be used as an efficient preselection tool for the aged canine population targeting dogs with mild cognitive impairment.
Pain, placebo, and cognitive penetration
Authors: Shevlin Henry , Friesen Phoebe
Published: June 2020

There is compelling evidence that pain experience is influenced by cognitive states. We explore one specific form of such influence, namely placebo analgesia, and examine its relevance for the cognitive penetration debate in philosophy of mind. We single out as important a form of influence on experience that we termradical cognitive penetration,and argue that some cases of placebo analgesia constitute compelling instances of this phenomenon. Still, we urge caution in extrapolating from this to broader conclusions about cognitive penetration in perceptual experience. Instead, we suggest that the cognitive penetration of pain raises distinctive psychological, epistemological, and ethical issues.
Mosquito oviposition and larvae development in response to kairomones originated by different fish
Authors: Cohen S. , Silberbush A.
Published: June 2020

Predator‐released kairomones indicating the presence of predatory fish are known to alter the behaviour and life‐history traits of several aquatic herbivores.Culexmosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) respond to such cues by altering oviposition habitat selection and larval development time. These responses differ among fish species indicating composition differences among fish‐released cues, but the recognition pattern is not clear. This study tested the dependence of fish recognition to co‐evolution and the level of threat to larvae. We comparedCulexresponses to three fish, the invasive larvivorousGambusia affinis(Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae), the native larvivorousAphanius mento(Cyprinodontiformes: Cyprinodontidae) and the native algivorousGarra rufa(Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae). The effects of cues released by the three fish onCulexoviposition and life‐history shifts were compared in field mesocosms and lab tests. Our results showed that ovipositing females were significantly repelled only by cues originated fromG. affinis, while developing larvae response was a more general one. Our results support the idea that fish‐released kairomones differ in composition or quantities among different species.