bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebellopontine Angle Surgery Assisted by Continuous Mapping of the Facial Nerve Via the Ultrasonic Aspirator
Authors: Cenzato Marco , Stefini Roberto , Zenga Francesco , Piparo Maurizio , Debernardi Alberto , Costi Ilaria , Fava Enrica
Published: October 2020

Background Cerebellopontine angle (CPA) surgery carries the risk of lesioning the facial nerve. The goal of preserving the integrity of the facial nerve is usually pursued with intermittent electrical stimulation using a handheld probe that is alternated with the resection. We report our experience with continuous electrical stimulation delivered via the ultrasonic aspirator (UA) used for the resection of a series of vestibular schwannomas.

Methods A total of 17 patients with vestibular schwannomas, operated on between 2010 and 2018, were included in this study. A constant-current stimulator was coupled to the UA used for the resection, delivering square-wave pulses throughout the resection. The muscle responses from upper and lower face muscles triggered by the electrical stimulation were displayed continuously on multichannel neurophysiologic equipment. The careful titration of the electrical stimulation delivered through the UA while tapering the current intensity with the progression of the resection was used as the main strategy.

Results All operations were performed successfully, and facial nerve conduction was maintained in all patients except one, in whom a permanent lesion of the facial nerve followed a miscommunication to the neurosurgeon.

Conclusion The coupling of the electrical stimulation to the UA provided the neurosurgeon with an efficient and cost-effective tool and allowed a safe resection. Positive responses were obtained from the facial muscles with low current intensity (lowest intensity: 0.1 mA). The availability of a resection tool paired with a stimulator allowed the surgeon to improve the surgical workflow because fewer interruptions were necessary to stimulate the facial nerve via a handheld probe.
A novel indoor smell regulation method
Authors: Wang Jia-Ying , Meng Qing-Hao , Wu Bin , Cheng Lu
Published: October 2020

Indoor smell affects human health and work efficiency. In order to reduce the impact of indoor smell on human health and work efficiency, a novel indoor smell regulation method was proposed. First, an indoor smell regulation system, including wireless sensor nodes (WSNs), a smell presenting device (SPD), and a wireless control node, was designed. Second, the number and location of WSNs were optimized by combining the computational fluid dynamics with the ant colony optimization algorithm. Third, the location of the SPD was determined according to the diffusion speed, uniformity of distribution, total number of indoor smell particles, and average smell concentration of the breathing section. Finally, experiments were conducted and the results show that the smell regulation system can quickly and effectively detect and remove the unpleasant smell and then release the pleasant smell. Generally, the smell regulation system is capable of performing an indoor smell adjustment in less than 5 min.
Features of the electrical resistivity as a function of temperature in GdxPb1−xMo6S8 (x = 0.5, 0.7, and 0.9) superconductors
Authors: Terekhov A. V. , Zolochevskii I. V. , Ischenko L. A. , Zaleski A. , Khlybov E. P. , Lachenkov S. A.
Published: October 2020

For the first time, the temperature ρ(T) and magnetic field ρ(H) dependences of the electrical resistivity have been studied in compounds GdxPb1−xMo6S8 (x = 0.5, 0.7, 0.9), in the temperature range 2–300 K and magnetic fields up to 9 T. In the absence of a magnetic field, the compounds Gd0.9Pb0.1Mo6S8 and Gd0.7Pb0.3Mo6S8 exhibit features along ρ(T) (maximum and minimum for Gd0.9Pb0.1Mo6S8, and an inflection for Gd0.7Pb0.3Mo6S8), in some temperature ranges. The ρ(T) dependence of Gd0.5Pb0.5Mo6S8 is monotonic over the entire investigated temperature range. The presence of a small positive magnetoresistance (up to 2%) is established, which peaks at temperatures where there are features. It is shown that the dependence of the magnetization M(T) in the studied temperature range does not have features associated with long-range magnetic transformations. It is suggested that the features along the ρ(T) of Gd0.9Pb0.1Mo6S8 and Gd0.7Pb0.3Mo6S8 can be caused by band structure rearrangement, and the appearance of two charge carrier channels that are responsible for the semiconductor and metallic behavior of the temperature dependences of the electrical resistivity.
Tungsten disulfide nanotubes demonstrate useful luminescent behavior
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: October 2020

Quantum confinement in tungsten disulfide nanotubes could allow for tunable electronic structures and a multitude of new applications.
Complete complementarity relations for multipartite pure states
Authors: Basso Marcos L W , Maziero Jonas
Published: October 2020

Complementarity relations for wave-particle duality are saturated only for pure, single-quanton, quantum states. For a completely incoherent state, it is known that wave and particle quantifiers can reach zero, and hence no information about the wave and particle aspects of the system can be obtained. This means that the information is being shared with other systems, and quantum correlations can be seen as responsible for the loss of purity of the quanton, provided that the quanton is part of a multipartite pure quantum system. In this paper, by exploring the purity of bi- and tri-partite pure quantum states, we show that it is possible to obtain complete complementarity relations. This procedure allows us to create a general framework for obtaining complete complementarity relations for a subsystem that belongs to an arbitrary multi-partite quantum system in a pure state. By some simple examples, we show that if the predictability measure is changed then the correlation measure must also be changed in order to obtain complete complementarity relations for pure cases.
Differentiating cancer types using a urine test for volatile organic compounds
Authors: Bannaga Ayman S , Kvasnik Frank , Persaud Krishna , Arasaradnam Ramesh P
Published: October 2020

Background. In the human body, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are produced by different tissues then secreted in different body fluids and subsequently excreted. Here we explore a non-invasive method for the detection of liver, prostate and bladder cancers. Methods. We recruited 140 cases. There were 31 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), 62 prostate carcinomas, 29 bladder carcinomas and 18 non-cancer cases. Male to female ratio was 5:1 and mean age was 72 years. Urinary VOCs were detected by applying solid-phase microextraction (SPME) technique. Results. The sensitivity for detection of HCC with normal alpha fetoprotein (AFP) was 68% (SE 0.06, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.81 and P < 0.005). The VOCs sensitivity in the detection of HCC cases with raised AFP was 83%. (SE 0.05, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.93 and P < 0.0001). The VOCs sensitivity for prostate cancer detection was 70% (SE 0.049, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.79 and P < 0.0002) and sensitivity for bladder cancer detection was 81% (SE 0.052, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.91 and P < 0.0001). Conclusions. SPME urinary VOCs analysis was able to differentiate between controls and each of hepatocellular, prostate and bladder cancers. This suggests that urinary VOCs are cancer specific and could potentially be used as a diagnostic method.
A Review of Terrestrial and Canopy Malaise Traps
Authors: Skvarla Michael J , Larson Jonathan L , Fisher J Ray , Dowling Ashley P G
Published: October 2020

Malaise traps are important tools for the large-scale collection of arthropod taxa. Here, an extensive review of the history and literature concerning Malaise and canopy traps is given. This review highlights how trap design and placement can affect trap catch, which will help researchers to make more informed choices when planning research endeavors. Additionally, terrestrial and canopy-style Malaise traps are compared to each other and other types of arthropod traps.
Non-normative use of reflexivity in social work with families in the Czech Republic
Authors: Glumbíková Kateřina
Published: October 2020

Discourse on the normative use of reflexivity predominates in the professional literature. Expert articles on the topic of non-normative use of reflexivity, which is based on the presumption that social workers do not use reflexivity to improve their work quality, but rather its functions for themselves to fulfil specific purposes, is missing, with some exceptions in the literature. The presented article therefore aims to understand the use of reflexivity in the practice of social work with families in its non-normative concept and to determine the implications for social work. Using the abduction method (in which Schechtman’s narrative identity theory was applied to data analysis), the following four categories of the use of reflexivity in a non-normative way were saturated with data obtained from initial interviews, field observations and subsequent reflection of field observations with social workers: personal interest, survival, moral responsibility and compensation. The non-normative concept of reflexivity is further discussed in the context of specific implications for education and practice of social work.
Diagnostic Tests Can Stem the Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance: Infectious Disease Professionals Can Help
Authors: Trevas Dana , Caliendo Angela M , Hanson Kimberly , Levy Jaclyn , Ginocchio Christine C
Published: October 2020

Uptake of existing diagnostics to identify infections more accurately could minimize unnecessary antibiotic use and decrease the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (PACCARB) agree that, to improve uptake of existing diagnostics, healthcare providers, health systems, and payors all need better clinical and economic outcomes data to support use of diagnostic tests over empiric use of antibiotics, providers need better tools and education about diagnostic tests, and diagnostics developers need federal funding in the absence of a viable diagnostics market. Recommendations from PACCARB and the IDSA are amplified. Incentives for—and challenges to—diagnostics research, development, and uptake are summarized. Advocacy opportunities are given for infectious disease professionals to join the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
“If You Don’t Get Caught”: Islands, Isolation, and Entrapment in Contemporary Scottish Women’s Poetry
Authors: Mackay Peter
Published: October 2020

This essay explores the trope of the island in recent Scottish poetry and in particular the tendency to treat poems as islands and vice versa. With a particular focus on the work of Meg Bateman, Jen Hadfield, Kathleen Jamie, Jackie Kay, and Liz Lochhead, the essay discusses ideas of entrapment, freedom, and isolation, to suggest that alongside the Utopian imaginings of islands, there is also the possibility of them becoming, like St Kilda for Lady Grange, constrictive prison cells.
Functional complementation of V-ATPase a subunit isoforms in osteoclasts
Authors: Matsumoto Naomi , Sekiya Mizuki , Fujimoto Yasuyuki , Haga Satoshi , Sun-Wada Ge-Hong , Wada Yoh , Nakanishi-Matsui Mayumi
Published: October 2020

In osteoclasts, the a3 isoform of the proton-pumping V-ATPase plays essential roles in anterograde trafficking of secretory lysosomes and extracellular acidification required for bone resorption. This study examined functional complementation of the a isoforms by exogenously expressing the a1, a2 and a3 isoforms in a3-knockout (KO) osteoclasts. The expression levels of a1 and a2 in a3KO osteoclasts were similar, but lower than that of a3. a1 significantly localized to lysosomes, whereas a2 slightly did. On the other hand, a2 interacted with Rab7, a regulator of secretory lysosome trafficking in osteoclasts, more efficiently than a1. a1 partly complemented the functions of a3 in secretory lysosome trafficking and calcium phosphate resorption, while a2 partly complemented the former but not the latter function.
Respiratory Viral Pathogens in Children Evaluated at Military Treatment Facilities in Oahu, Hawaii From 2014 to 2018: Seasonality and Climatic Factors
Authors: Montgomery Agnes S , Lustik Michael B , Jones Milissa U , Horseman Timothy S
Published: October 2020

Five-year retrospective analysis of respiratory viruses in children less than 18 years old at Tripler Army Medical Center and outlying clinics in Oahu. Respiratory syncytial virus and influenza A showed pronounced seasonality with peaks from September to December and December to March, respectively. Results provide a better understanding of the timing of viral preventive strategies in Oahu.
Challenging delayed bleeding after an Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy
Authors: Liddle Sean , Mirakhur Anirudh , Debru Estifanos
Published: October 2020

A 66-year-old man underwent a minimally invasive oesophagectomy for oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Surgery and recovery were routine; however, he represented 8 days later with a massive upper gastrointestinal bleed. He was stabilized, but over a 2-week period experienced several bleeds requiring transfusion and multiple endoscopies, all showing a prominent luminal vessel at the oesophago-gastric (OG) anastomosis. Haemostatic clipping was attempted resulting in pulsatile bleeding and transfer to the radiology suite where angiography showed extravasation of contrast at the OG anastomosis from the terminal portion of the gastro-epiploic arcade. Coil embolization was successful and did not result in ischaemia. It was our standard to construct the OG anastomosis with the end-to-end anastomosis circular stapler (DST™ Series EEA™), 4.8-mm staple height. However, we now use the 3.5-mm staple height for improved haemostasis and ensure that the area for anastomosis is cleared of omental tissue so as not to incorporate a visible vessel.
A user’s view of the validity of acceptability judgments as evidence for syntactic theories
Authors: Sprouse Jon
Published: October 2020

The primary goal of this chapter is to discuss the validity of acceptability judgments as a data type. The author’s view is that acceptability judgments have most, if not all, of the hallmarks of a valid data type: syntacticians have a plausible theory of the source of acceptability judgments, a theory of how to leverage judgments for the construction of syntactic theories using experimental logic, and a set of evaluation criteria that are similar to those used for other data types in the broader field of psychology. At an empirical level, acceptability judgments have been shown to be relatively reliable across tasks and participants, to be relatively sensitive, and to be relatively free of theoretical bias. Therefore the author’s view is that acceptability judgments are at least as valid as other data types that are used in the broader field of language science.
Mitogenomic phylogeny and fossil-calibrated mutation rates for all F- and M-type mtDNA genes of the largest freshwater mussel family, the Unionidae (Bivalvia)
Authors: Zieritz Alexandra , Froufe Elsa , Bolotov Ivan , Gonçalves Duarte V , Aldridge David C , Bogan Arthur E , Gan Han Ming , Gomes-Dos-Santos André , Sousa Ronaldo , Teixeira Amilcar , Varandas Simone , Zanatta David , Lopes-Lima Manuel
Published: October 2020

The Unionidae represent an excellent model taxon for unravelling the drivers of freshwater diversity, but, phylogeographic studies on Southeast Asian taxa are hampered by lack of a comprehensive phylogeny and mutation rates for this fauna. We present complete female- (F) and male-type (M) mitogenomes of four genera of the Southeast Asian clade Contradentini+Rectidentini. We calculate substitution rates for the mitogenome, the 13 protein-coding genes, the two ribosomal units and three commonly used fragments (co1, nd1 and 16S) of both F- and M-mtDNA, based on a fossil-calibrated, mitogenomic phylogeny of the Unionidae. Phylogenetic analyses, including an M+F concatenated dataset, consistently recovers a monophyletic Gonideinae. Subfamily-level topology is congruent with that of a previous nuclear genomic study and with patterns in mitochondrial gene order, suggesting Unionidae F-type 2 as a synapomorphy of the Gonideinae. Our phylogeny indicates that the clades Contradentini+Rectidentini and Lamprotulini+Pseudodontini+Gonideini split in the early Cretaceous (~125 Mya), and that the crown group of Contradentini+Rectidentini originated in the late Cretaceous (~79 Mya). Most gonideine tribes originated during the early Palaeogene. Substitution rates were comparable to those previously published for F-type co1 and 16S for certain Unionidae and Margaritiferidae species (pairs).
An Open Letter from Past Presidents of the American Nurses Association
Authors: Cipriano Pamela , Daley Karen , Patton Rebecca , Blakeney Barbara , Foley Mary , Betts Virginia Trotter , Cole Eunice , Nichols Barbara
Published: October 2020

Eight former ANA presidents urge nurses to consider nursing's values when they vote.
Infectious complications of newer agents in the fight against diabetes
Authors: Stover Kayla R. , Hugh Emily , Sherman Justin J. , Malinowski Scott S. , Berdahl Gideon J. , Riche Daniel M.
Published: October 2020

Infectious complications have been reported with antidiabetic medications. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors have been associated with upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors have been associated with lower limb amputations, urinary tract infections, genital mycotic infections, and Fournier gangrene.
Greater Conditioned Pain Modulation Is Associated With Enhanced Morphine Analgesia in Healthy Individuals and Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Bruehl Stephen , France Christopher R. , Stone Amanda L. , Gupta Rajnish , Buvanendran Asokumar , Chont Melissa , Burns John W.
Published: October 2020

Objectives:

Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) protocols index magnitude of descending pain inhibition. This study evaluated whether the degree of CPM, controlling for CPM expectancy confounds, was associated with analgesic and subjective responses to morphine and whether chronic pain status or sex moderated these effects.

Materials and Methods:

Participants included 92 individuals with chronic low back pain and 99 healthy controls, none using daily opioid analgesics. In a cross-over design, participants attended 2 identical laboratory sessions during which they received either intravenous morphine (0.08 mg/kg) or saline placebo before undergoing evoked pain assessment. In each session, participants engaged in ischemic forearm and heat pain tasks, and a CPM protocol combining ischemic pain (conditioning stimulus) and heat pain (test stimulus). Placebo-controlled morphine outcomes were derived as differences in pain and subjective effects across drug conditions.

Results:

In hierarchical regressions controlling for CPM expectancies, greater placebo-condition CPM was associated with less subjective morphine unpleasantness (P=0.001) and greater morphine analgesia (P’s<0.05) on both the ischemic pain task (Visual Analog Scale Pain Intensity and Unpleasantness) and heat pain task (Visual Analog Scale Pain Intensity, McGill Pain Questionnaire—Sensory, and Present Pain Intensity subscales). There was no moderation by sex or chronic low back pain status, except for the ischemic Present Pain Intensity outcome for which a significant 2-way interaction (P<0.05) was noted, with men showing a stronger positive relationship between CPM and morphine analgesia than women.

Discussion:

Results suggest that CPM might predict analgesic and subjective responses to opioid administration. Further evaluation of CPM as an element of precision pain medicine algorithms may be warranted.
Timing of Prenatal Care Initiation and Psychological Wellbeing in Black Women
Authors: Wong Ana C. , Rengers Brooke , Nowak Alexandra L. , Schoeppner Samantha , Price Mercedes , Zhang Liying , Dailey Rhonda K. , Anderson Cindy M. , Misra Dawn P. , Giurgescu Carmen
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to see if timing of prenatal care initiation was related to psychological wellbeing of Black women.

Study Design and Methods:

Using a cross-sectional design, a sample of 197 pregnant Black women completed a self-reported survey between 8 weeks and less than 30 weeks gestation as part of the Biosocial Impact on Black Births study. The questions asked about the initiation of prenatal care, perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and psychological wellbeing. Multiple linear regression was used to examine if timing of prenatal care initiation was related to psychological variables.

Results:

Sixty-three women (32%) reported they were not able to initiate their first prenatal care visit as early as they wanted due to various barriers. After adjusting for cofounders, not initiating prenatal care as early as women wanted predicted lower levels of psychological wellbeing.

Clinical Implications:

Perinatal nurses should assess psychological wellbeing in Black women throughout pregnancy; advocate for Black women who report high levels of stress, psychological distress, or depressive symptoms for further mental health evaluation by their health care provider; and provide resources and education (e.g., support groups, counseling) for these women.
Using Simulation to Develop Solutions for Ventilator Shortages From the Epicenter
Authors: Burnett Garrett W. , Shah Anjan , Fried Eric A. , Shah Ronak , Lai Cheuk Yin , Levin Matthew
Published: October 2020

Summary Statement

The COVID-19 pandemic threatened to overwhelm the medical system of New York City, and the threat of ventilator shortages was real. Using high-fidelity simulation, a variety of solutions were tested to solve the problem of ventilator shortages including innovative designs for safely splitting ventilators, converting noninvasive ventilators to invasive ventilators, and testing and improving of ventilators created by outside companies. Simulation provides a safe environment for testing of devices and protocols before use on patients and should be vital in the preparation for emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impact on microbiology laboratory turnaround times following process improvements and total laboratory automation
Authors: Gonzalez-Ortiz Carolyn , Emrick Alanna , Tabak Ying P. , Vankeepuram Latha , Kurtz Stephen , Sellers David , Wimmer Megan , Asjes Caitlin , Barake Suhaireirene Suady , Nichols Jacob , Levent Fatma
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The impact of workflow changes and total laboratory automation (TLA) on microbiology culture processing time was evaluated in an academic-affiliated regional hospital.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of microbiological data in a research database was performed to compare turnaround time (TAT) for organism identification (ID) before and after implementation of TLA (2013 versus 2016, respectively). TAT was compared using the χ2 test for categorical variables and log-transformed t-test for continuous variables.

Results

A total of 9,351 predefined common and clinically important positive mono-bacterial culture results were included in the analysis. Shorter TAT (hours) in 2016 compared to 2013 (p<0.0001) for positive result pathogen ID were observed in specimen types including blood (51.2 vs. 70.6), urine (40.7 vs. 47.1), wound (39.6 vs. 60.2), respiratory (47.7 vs. 67), and all specimen types combined (43.3 vs. 56.8). Although shorter TATs were not observed from all specimen categories for negative result pathogen ID, TAT for all specimen types combined was shorter (p≤0.001) in 2016 compared to 2013 (94 vs. 101).

Conclusions

Total laboratory automation and workflow changes—including process standardization—facilitate shorter organism ID TAT across specimen sources.
Temporal variation in one-time partnership rates among young men who have sex with men and transgender women
Authors: Janulis Patrick , Goodreau Steven M. , Birkett Michelle , Phillips Gregory , Morris Martina , Mustanski Brian , Jenness Samuel M.
Published: October 2020

Background

Volatility in sexual contact rates has been recognized as an important factor influencing HIV transmission dynamics. One-time partnerships may be particularly important given the potential to quickly accumulate large number of contacts. Yet, empirical data documenting individual variation in contact rates remains rare. This study provides much needed data on temporal variation in one-time partners to better understand behavioral dynamics and improve the accuracy of transmission models.

Methods

Data for this study from a longitudinal cohort study of young men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in Chicago. Participants provided sexual network data every 6-months for 2 years. A series of random effects models examined variation in one-time partnership rates and disaggregated within and between associations of exposure variables.

Exposure variables included prior number of one-time partners, number of casual partners, and having a main partner.

Results

Results indicated substantial between and within person variation in one-time partners. Casual partnerships were positively associated and main partnerships negatively association with one-time partnership rates. There remained a small positive association between prior one-time partnerships and the current number of one-time partnerships.

Conclusions

Despite the preponderance of a low number of one-time partners, substantial variation in one-time partnership rates exists among young MSM and transgender women. Accordingly, focusing on high contact rate individuals alone may be insufficient to identify periods of highest risk. Future studies should utilize these estimates to more accurately model how volatility impacts HIV transmission and better understand how this variation influences intervention effectiveness.
Clinical symptoms among ambulatory patients tested for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Chung Jessie R. , Kim Sara S. , Jackson Michael L. , Jackson Lisa A. , Belongia Edward A. , King Jennifer P. , Zimmerman Richard K. , Nowalk Mary Patricia , Martin Emily T. , Monto Arnold S. , Gaglani Manjusha , Smith Michael E. , Patel Manish , Flannery Brendan
Published: October 2020

We compared symptoms and characteristics of 4961 ambulatory patients with and without laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Findings indicate that clinical symptoms alone would be insufficient to distinguish between COVID-19 and other respiratory infections (e.g., influenza) and/or to evaluate the effects of preventive interventions (e.g., vaccinations).
A novel Golgi-associated Vangl2 translational variant required for PCP regulation in vertebrates
Authors: Walton Alexandra , Revinski Diego , Sergé Arnauld , Audebert Stéphane , Camoin Luc , Puvirajesinghe Tania M , Isnardon Daniel , Marchetto Sylvie , Kodjabachian Laurent , Bailly Eric , Borg Jean-Paul
Published: October 2020

First described inDrosophila melanogaster, planar cell polarity (PCP) is a developmental process essential for embryogenesis and development of polarized structures in Metazoans. This signaling pathway involves a set of evolutionarily conserved genes encoding transmembrane (Vangl, Frizzled, Celsr) and cytoplasmic (Prickle, Dishevelled) molecules. Vangl2 is of major importance in embryonic development as illustrated by its pivotal role during neural tube closure in human, mouse,Xenopusand zebrafish embryos. The regulated and poorly understood traffic of Vangl2 to the plasma membrane is a key event for its function in development. Here we report on the molecular and functional characterization of a novel 569-amino acid N-terminally extended Vangl2 isoform, Vangl2-Long, that arises from an alternative non-AUG translation initiation site, lying 144 base pair upstream of the conventional start codon. While missing in Vangl1 paralogs and in all invertebrates, includingDrosophila melanogaster, this N-terminal extension is conserved in all vertebrate Vangl2 sequences and confers a subcellular localization in the Golgi apparatus, probably as a result of an extended retention time in this organelle. Vangl2-Long belongs to a multimeric complex with Vangl1 and Vangl2 and we show that its down-regulation leads to severe PCP-related phenotypes inXenopusembryos, including shorter body axis and neural tube closure defects. Altogether, our study unveils a novel level of complexity in Vangl2 expression, trafficking and function.
Public perception of police behaviors in the disaster COVID-19 – The case of Serbia
Authors: Janković Bojan , Cvetković Vladimir Miroljub
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study is to determine the perception of general public on the Serbian police behaviors in combating COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the perception of the citizens how successful the police units were in fulfilling their tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to the state of emergency declared due to COVID-19 pandemic, in particular the restriction of movement and the need for social distance, the data collection for this study had to be conducted via the online survey platform (Google.doc). The study was conducted during March–April 2020, only four weeks after the state of emergency was declared. The participants were invited to complete the online questionnaire in their native language by using the snowball sampling strategy focused on recruiting the general public via social media tools.

Findings

Considering the fact that police officers are not sufficiently prepared and trained to respond in these specific circumstances, it is necessary to improve their engagement in the future by conducting appropriate training, procuring adequate resources, implementing adequate planning activities, etc. The results of the multivariate regressions of public perception preparedness subscale show that the most important predictor is gender and it explains 23.6% of the variance in preparedness subscale. The remaining variables did not have significant effects on preparedness. This model with all mentioned independent variables explains 6.1% of the variance of preparedness subscale.

Originality/value

Bearing in mind that there were no completed studies on public perception of police behaviors about the COVID-19 disaster in Serbia, the research has a considerable scientific and social importance.
Multiple stressors interact to impair the performance of bumblebee Bombus terrestris colonies
Authors: Botías Cristina , Jones Julia C. , Pamminger Tobias , Bartomeus Ignasi , Hughes William O. H. , Goulson Dave
Published: October 2020

Bumblebees are constantly exposed to a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses which they must defend themselves against to survive. Pathogens and pesticides represent important stressors that influence bumblebee health, both when acting alone or in combination. To better understand bumblebee health, we need to investigate how these factors interact, yet experimental studies to date generally focus on only one or two stressors.

The aim of this study is to evaluate how combined effects of four important stressors (the gut parasite Nosema ceranae, the neonicotinoid insecticide thiamethoxam, the pyrethroid insecticide cypermethrin and the EBI fungicide tebuconazole) interact to affect bumblebees at the individual and colony levels.

We established seven treatment groups of colonies that we pulse exposed to different combinations of these stressors for 2 weeks under laboratory conditions. Colonies were subsequently placed in the field for 7 weeks to evaluate the effect of treatments on the prevalence of N. ceranae in inoculated bumblebees, expression levels of immunity and detoxification‐related genes, food collection, weight gain, worker and male numbers, and production of worker brood and reproductives.

Exposure to pesticide mixtures reduced food collection by bumblebees. All immunity‐related genes were upregulated in the bumblebees inoculated with N. ceranae when they had not been exposed to pesticide mixtures, and bumblebees exposed to the fungicide and the pyrethroid were less likely to have N. ceranae. Combined exposure to the three‐pesticide mixture and N. ceranae reduced bumblebee colony growth, and all treatments had detrimental effects on brood production. The groups exposed to the neonicotinoid insecticide produced 40%–76% fewer queens than control colonies.

Our findings show that exposure to combinations of stressors that bumblebees frequently come into contact with have detrimental effects on colony health and performance and could therefore have an impact at the population level. These results also have significant implications for current practices and policies for pesticide risk assessment and use as the combinations tested here are frequently applied simultaneously in the field. Understanding the interactions between different stressors will be crucial for improving our ability to manage bee populations and for ensuring pollination services into the future.
Potential ofCaenorhabditis elegansas an antiaging evaluation model for dietary phytochemicals: A review
Authors: Ye Yongli , Gu Qingyin , Sun Xiulan
Published: October 2020

Aging is an inevitable process characterized by the accumulation of degenerative damage, leading to serious diseases that affect human health. Studies on aging aim to develop pre‐protection or therapies to delay aging and age‐related diseases. A preventive approach is preferable to clinical treatment not only to reduce investment but also to alleviate pain in patients. Adjusting daily diet habits to improve the aging condition is a potentially attractive strategy. Fruits and vegetables containing active compounds that can effectively delay the aging process and reduce or inhibit age‐related degenerative diseases have been identified. The signaling pathways related to aging inCaenorhabditis elegansare evolutionarily conserved; thus, studying antiaging components by intervening senescence process may contribute to the prevention and treatment of age‐related diseases in humans. This review focuses on the effects of food‐derived extracts or purified substance on antiaging in nematodes, as well as the underlying mechanisms, on the basis of several major signaling pathways and key regulatory factors in aging. The aim is to provide references for a healthy diet guidance and the development of antiaging nutritional supplements. Finally, challenges in the use ofC. elegansas the antiaging evaluation model are discussed, together with the development that potentially inspire novel strategies and research tools.
Robot‐assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy using the selective clamping approach
Authors: Wong Ting‐Fung , Lam Wayne , Tsang Chiu‐Fung , Ho Brian Sze‐Ho , Ng Ada Tsui‐Lin , Tsu James Hok‐Leung
Published: October 2020

Introduction and Objectives

To demonstrate the technique of robot‐assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) using the selective clamping approach.

Materials and Methods

A 56‐year‐old man presented with a 1.9 cm middle pole anterior right renal mass. Imaging studies demonstrated it to be likely a renal cell carcinoma. Transperitoneal RAPN was performed with intraoperative identification of an arterial branch supplying the region containing the renal tumour. Selective clamping of the polar branch was achieved, resulting in zero global renal ischaemia during the procedure.

Results

Operative time was 2.5 hours with estimated blood loss 30 mL. Patient made an uneventful recovery and was discharged on postoperative day four. Pathology confirmed pT1aG2 clear cell carcinoma with clear margins.

Conclusion

The selective clamping approach is an optimal strategy during RAPN and should be adopted if possible, to avoid global renal ischaemia. Meticulous dissection of the hilar vessels is essential to identify arterial branches for selective clamping.
Iliac vein pathology and short‐term stenting outcomes in a South‐East Asian population: A single‐centre experience
Authors: Huang Ivan Kuang Hsin , Pua Uei , Quek Lawrence Han Hwee , Chong Rhan Chean Lester , Tay Wei Ling , Hong Qiantai , Yong Enming , Chandrasekar Sadhana , Zhang Li , Tan Glenn Wei Leong , Lo Zhiwen Joseph
Published: October 2020

Objective

Current literature regarding iliofemoral intervention and stenting is mostly based on Western populations. We present our experience of iliofemoral stenting for chronic venous disease within a South‐East Asian population.

Methods

This is a single‐centre retrospective review of a prospectively collected registry. Seventy‐one patients with 105 limbs underwent iliac vein IVUS and stenting between 2016 and 2019. All patients underwent pre‐procedure ultrasound venous scan and MRI venogram. Pre‐ and post‐operative CEAP classification, Villalta score and Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), technical results, stent patency rates and complication rates are documented.

Results

Seventy‐six per cent of the cases are non‐thrombotic iliac vein lesion, and 68% of patients have C4 to C6 disease. Ten percentage of patients had acute thrombosis on presentation. There was 100% technical success. A 6‐ and 7‐point reduction in the mean VCSS and Villalta score, respectively, were noted post‐stenting (baseline of 10 points and P < 0.001 in both categories). Post‐stenting ulcer healing rate was 91% at 6 and 12 months. One‐year ulcer recurrence and cellulites recurrence were at 8% and 7%, respectively. One unplanned 30‐day readmission (not related to procedure) and no 30‐day mortality were noted. Bleeding complication from anticoagulation was 3%. There was 10% in‐stent non‐flow limiting stenosis on surveillance. One‐year primary patency was 91%, and secondary patency was 100%.

Conclusion

Within our series, iliofemoral stenting has 100% technical success, with statistically significant reduction in VCSS and Villalta score, good wound healing rates, low ulcer and cellulites recurrence and good primary and secondary patency rates at 1 year.
Analysis of the Nursing Diagnosis Risk for Falls in Older Adults with Hypertension
Authors: Ferreira Glauciano de Oliveira , Moreira Rafaella Pessoa , Felício Janiel Ferreira , Guerra Francisca Valúzia Guedes , Cavalcante Tahissa Frota , Rouberte Emilia Soares Chaves
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the Nursing Diagnosis risk for falls indicators in aged with hypertension and to verify the association of this diagnosis with sociodemographic variables and antihypertensive agents used by the aged.

METHODS

Analytical study, cross‐sectional with quantitative approach. It was carried out in three health units in the city of Redenção, Ceará, Brazil, in the Brazilian Northeast. A total of 153 elderly subjects participated in the study. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test, Pearson's chi‐square test and multinomial logistic regression of variables that presented association with the Nursing Diagnosis.

RESULTS

Use of throw rugs, difficulties with gait, acute illness (p = .004), age greater than or equal to 65 years and impaired vision were associated with the Nursing Diagnosis risk for falls (00155). The work situation (retired) was the only sociodemographic variable that had a significant association with the risk for falls. Antihypertensive agents were not associated with the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Age greater than or equal to 65 years, use of throw rugs, difficulties with gait, acute illness, and impaired vision can be useful to infer the risk for falls and to confirm their presence in the aged with hypertension.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

This study provides data that can help nurses in the process of inferring the diagnosis risk for falls in the aged with hypertension, which streamlines the planning and implementation of preventive interventions.
Birthweight predicts individual differences in adult face recognition ability
Authors: Bate Sarah , Mestry Natalie , Atkinson Maddie , Bennetts Rachel J. , Hills Peter J.
Published: October 2020

It has long been known that premature birth and/or low birthweight can lead to general difficulties in cognitive and emotional functioning throughout childhood. However, the influence of these factors on more specific processes has seldom been addressed, despite their potential to account for wide individual differences in performance that often appear innate. Here, we examined the influence of gestation and birthweight on adults’ face perception and face memory skills. Performance on both sub‐processes was predicted by birthweight and birthweight‐for‐gestation, but not gestation alone. Evidence was also found for the domain‐specificity of these effects: No perinatal measure correlated with performance on object perception or memory tasks, but they were related to the size of the face inversion effect on the perceptual test. This evidence indicates a novel, very early influence on individual differences in face recognition ability, which persists into adulthood, influences face‐processing strategy itself, and may be domain‐specific.
Simulation based study on parameter variation of Si0.9Ge0.1 junction‐less SELBOX FinFET for high‐performance application
Authors: Vidhya Sagar G , Vijayakumar D
Published: October 2020

In this article, we present a high‐performance SiGe junctionless FinFET (JLFinFET) on insulator by selective growth of buried oxide (SELBOX) layer device with better electrostatics. The mole fraction x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, and 0.7 with fin width 10 nm and gate length of 20 nm are considered for simulation using technology computer aided design (TCAD) Sentaurus device. With Si0.9Ge0.1 JLFinFET on insulator by SELBOX layer, nearly an ideal subthreshold swing of 61.51 mV/decade and enhanced on‐current, off‐current has been achieved. Evaluation of on‐off current ratio, DIBL, SS for different parameters, such as doping concentration (1015‐1019/cm3), channel length (10‐40 nm), temperature (200‐700°K) on JLJFinFET on insulator by SELBOX layer are presented. Three‐dimensional device simulation using the TCAD software tool Sentaurus Device is used to simulate and the results are compared with a SELBOX JLFinFET.
Use of healthcare services by young people with disabilities: a policy practitioner perspective
Authors: Gubbels André
Published: October 2020

This commentary is on the original articles by Carter et al. and Russell et al. on pages 75–80 and 81‐88 of this issue.
Using historical genome‐wide DNA to unravel the confused taxonomy in a songbird lineage that is extinct in the wild
Authors: Baveja Pratibha , Garg Kritika M. , Chattopadhyay Balaji , Sadanandan Keren R. , Prawiradilaga Dewi M. , Yuda Pramana , Lee Jessica G. H. , Rheindt Frank E.
Published: October 2020

Urgent conservation action for terminally endangered species is sometimes hampered by taxonomic uncertainty, especially in illegally traded animals that are often cross‐bred in captivity. To overcome these problems, we used a genomic approach to analyze historical DNA from museum samples across the Asian Pied Starling (Gracupica contra) complex in tropical Asia, a popular victim of the ongoing songbird crisis whose distinct Javan population (“Javan Pied Starling”) is extinct in the wild and subject to admixture in captivity. Comparing genomic profiles across the entire distribution, we detected three deeply diverged lineages at the species level characterized by a lack of genomic intermediacy near areas of contact. Our study demonstrates that the use of historical DNA can be instrumental in delimiting species in situations of taxonomic uncertainty, especially when modern admixture may obfuscate species boundaries. Results of our research will enable conservationists to commence a dedicated ex situ breeding program for the Javan Pied Starling, and serve as a blueprint for similar conservation problems involving terminally endangered species subject to allelic infiltration from close congeners.
Quality of electronic treatment records and adherence to prophylaxis in haemophilia and von Willebrand disease: Systematic assessments from an electronic diary
Authors: Tiede Andreas , Bonanad Santiago , Santamaria Amparo , Goldmann Georg , Canaro Mariana , Palomero Antonio , Frade Luis J. G. , Eduardo Megias‐Vericat Juan , Martinez Fernanda , Garcia Candel Faustino , Jimenez Yuste Victor , Sparber‐Sauer Monika , Halimeh Susan , Adolf Daniela , Hukauf Martin , Reichmann Jan , Oldenburg Johannes
Published: October 2020

Introduction

HaemoassistTM 2 is an electronic system designed for people with bleeding disorders and their physicians to record prophylactic infusions and treatment of bleeds. It aims to improve adherence by permitting reminders and accuracy of documentation by facilitating real‐time reporting.

Aim

To assess documentation quality and adherence to prophylactic regimens in patients with haemophilia A, haemophilia B or von Willebrand disease who are using HaemoassistTM 2.

Methods

Ten centres enrolled consecutive patients, who had been using HaemoassistTM 2 for ≥ 3 months (Cohort 1, ‘quality of documentation’). Of these, patients who had a specified prophylactic regimen in HaemoassistTM 2 for ≥ 3 months were eligible for inclusion in Cohort 2 (‘adherence to prophylaxis’).

Results

Cohort 1 comprised 796 patients (71% with severe haemophilia A; median 20.5 months of HaemoassistTM 2 use). The most common method of documentation for patients was using the mobile app; the median time between infusion and documentation was 4 hours using the app, compared with 85 hours using a web portal on a stationery device. The median total annualised number of infusions was consistent in the first and last 3 months of documentation (128; IQR: 70‐184 and 120; IQR 64‐176, respectively). Cohort 2 comprised 202 patients (79% severe haemophilia A; median of 13 months on prophylactic regimen in HaemoassistTM 2). The rate of adherence to prophylaxis was 83%; median deviation between planned and actual infusion time was ± 2 hours.

Conclusion

HaemoassistTM 2 was used consistently over prolonged periods of time and allowed for precise analysis of adherence to prophylaxis.