bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Blind Forensic Odontology Analyses
Authors: Shiroma Calvin Y. , Zuerlein Chelsey L.
Published: February 2020

Forensic odontology cases examined from 2012 to 2019 at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) laboratory were reviewed. Five cases from World War II and the Korea War were selected. Three of the cases presented involve dental assemblages, which were built by previous analysts. Postmortem radiographic analyses at the DPAA laboratory of these cases were complicated by the use of an older version of a digital x‐ray program and the assumption that teeth placed in the parent bone (maxilla and mandible) did not fully articulate due to the presence of debris at their root apices. Conflicting mitochondrial DNA test results for the submitted teeth and previously believed to be parent bone indicated these elements were not from the same individual. The remaining two cases are examples of how knowledge of findings from other disciplines may sway an opinion and could possibly lead to the rendering of erroneous opinions by the forensic odontologist. Having knowledge of previous examinations or results from other scientists, disciplines, and lines of evidence may lead to a bias in findings or opinions. If not careful, even the best‐intended scientist may fall victim to a bias in their opinion/analysis. The forensic odontologist should perform all analysis in the blind, not knowing any information which may bias their opinion, and utilize current versions of digital x‐ray software available and their tools when performing their examinations.
Viability of thermal imaging in detecting nests of the invasive hornet Vespa velutina
Authors: Lioy Simone , Bianchi Ettore , Biglia Alessandro , Bessone Mattia , Laurino Daniela , Porporato Marco
Published: February 2020

Vespa velutina is an invasive hornet species that is colonising Europe, generating considerable impacts on honeybees, beekeeping and biodiversity. Control and early warning strategies for this species are mainly based on monitoring plans and procedures of nest detection and destruction. Technological tools (harmonic radar, radio‐telemetry) have been developed to increase the probabilities of nest detection in new outbreaks. Since hornets are able to regulate nest temperature, thermography may represent an additional technique that may be used, both alone or in support to other techniques.

In this study, the viability of thermal imaging in detecting nests of V. velutina was evaluated in controlled conditions. The influence of different environmental and operative variables (time of the day, presence/absence of leaves covering the nest, distance between the nest and the operator) were tested on three nests detected during August 2018 in Italy. All the nests were detectable by thermal imaging, but environmental and operative variables affect their detectability. The temperature difference between the nests and the surrounding reaches its maximum before sunrise and without a tree canopy covering the nests. Although nests were visible in some cases from 30 m, the detectability was higher at shorter distances, even if this variable may also depend on infrared camera resolution. An increase in the environmental temperature also generates a decrease of nest detectability. Although some limitations could occur, these results show the applicability of thermography in detecting V. velutina nests before the beginning of the reproductive phase, and consequently its potentiality in control strategies.
HR analytics: The onto‐epistemology and politics of metricised HRM
Authors: Greasley Kay , Thomas Pete
Published: February 2020

The development of HR analytics, the growing dominance of positivistic approaches in academic HRM, and the increasing influence of evidence‐based approaches on HR represent a convergence of contextual factors that have the potential to influence HR practice significantly. In this context, we examine how the HR analytics “project” may unfold base on a reflective analysis of a number of data‐rich well‐being projects and empirical evaluations. We focus on the ways in which participants may become enrolled and mobilised in such projects and the implications this has for perceived value and effects of “data” generated by HR analytics. In particular, we draw attention to the social, political, and onto‐epistemological processes of the analytics project and draw conclusions about the way in which the analytics project may influence professional practice.
MicroRNA‐153‐3p regulates cell proliferation and cisplatin resistance via Nrf‐2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zuo Jing , Zhao Mei , Fan Zhisong , Liu Bowei , Wang Yudong , Li Yuehong , Lv Ping , Xing Lingxiao , Zhang Xianghong , Shen Haitao
Published: February 2020

Background

Our recent studies have indicated that miR‐153‐3p is downregulated in the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell lines and tissues. Upregulation of miR‐153‐3p was found to inhibit migration and invasion of ESCC cells. However, whether miR‐153‐3p regulates the cisplatin sensitivity in ESCC cells remains unclear. In this study, we explored whether and how miR‐153‐3p regulates the proliferation and confers cisplatin resistance in ESCC by targeting the Nrf‐2 protein.

Methods

Eca109 cell line was transfected with microRNA‐153‐3p mimics or Nrf‐2siRNA and cell proliferation and cisplatin resistance were studied. A dual‐luciferase reporter assay was performed on Eca109 cells cotransfected with the wild‐type/mutant 3′UTR sequences of Nrf‐2 and control or microRNA‐153‐3p mimics. We determined the correlation between microRNA‐153‐3p and Nrf‐2 expression in human ESCC samples and explored the effect of Nrf‐2 in the overall survival rate of ESCC patients.

Results

MiR‐153‐3p significantly suppressed cell proliferation and increased the sensitivity of Eca‐109 cells to cisplatin. MiR‐153‐3p showed a negative correlation with Nrf‐2 in human esophageal carcinoma tissues. MiR‐153‐3p suppressed the expression of Nrf‐2 via binding to its 3′‐UTR region. Furthermore, inhibition of Nrf‐2 also decreased cell proliferation and increased the sensitivity of Eca109 cells to cisplatin. High expression of Nrf‐2 in human ESCC samples was associated with poor overall survival of ESCC patients.

Conclusion

MiR‐153‐3p inhibits cell proliferation and confers cisplatin resistance by downregulating Nrf‐2 expression in Eca‐109 cells. Thus, miR‐153‐3p/Nrf‐2 may play an important role in conferring cisplatin resistance in ESCC. Nrf‐2 appears to be a promising therapeutic target for ESCC.
Do Shareholders Assess Managers' Use of Accruals to Manage Earnings as a Negative Signal of Trustworthiness Even When Its Outcome Serves Shareholders' Interests?*
Authors: Hewitt Max , Hodge Frank D. , Pratt Jamie H.
Published: February 2020

We examine how shareholders' trust in managers is affected by (i) the outcome of earnings management (inconsistent vs. consistent with shareholders' interests) and (ii) the method of earnings management (accruals vs. real methods). Using a controlled experiment, we predict and find that trust is impaired when the outcome of earnings management suggests that managers have put their interests above shareholders' interests and/or when the method of earnings management suggests that managers misreported the firm's economic performance. We argue that shareholders assess managers putting their interests above shareholders' interests as a signal of untrustworthiness because it involves a transfer of the firm's resources away from shareholders to managers. We argue that shareholders also assess managers' use of accruals to manage earnings as a signal of untrustworthiness because, in this instance, managers misreport the firm's economic performance. Finally, we show that trust mediates the combined effects of the outcome of earnings management and the method of earnings management on investment decisions. Our study incrementally contributes to the literature by highlighting the adverse implications of managers' use of accruals to manage earnings even when its outcome serves shareholders' interests.
Pain Severity and Alcohol Use Among Daily Tobacco Cigarette Smokers
Authors: LaRowe Lisa R. , Powers Jessica M. , Paladino Michael B. , Ditre Joseph W.
Published: February 2020

Background and Objectives

Pain is associated with hazardous alcohol use. Drinkers have reported using alcohol for pain‐coping, and negative affect may be a key mechanism in pain‐induced motivation to drink. However, no previous study has examined pain severity in relation to alcohol consumption, dependence, and alcohol‐related consequences. Moreover, no studies have examined pain‐alcohol interrelations among tobacco cigarette smokers. These secondary analyses tested the hypotheses that greater past 4‐week pain severity would be positively associated with indices of hazardous drinking (ie, quantity/frequency, harmful use, and dependence), and that the current pain intensity would be positively/indirectly associated with the urge to drink via negative affect.

Methods

Participants included 225 daily smokers (43% female; MCPD = 22) who completed the baseline session for a larger experimental study.

Results

Every one‐point increase in pain severity was associated with a 47% increased likelihood of hazardous drinking, and pain severity was positively associated with quantity/frequency of alcohol consumption, harmful patterns of drinking, and alcohol dependence level (Ps < .05). Pain intensity was indirectly associated with urge to drink via negative affect (P < .05).

Conclusions

These findings provide initial evidence that smokers with greater pain severity may also report hazardous patterns of alcohol use.

Scientific Significance

This is the first study to demonstrate that past 4‐week pain severity may be one factor that maintains three conceptually distinct patterns of hazardous drinking among smokers. The current results also provide the first evidence that greater pain intensity may be associated with an increased urge to drink alcohol, via negative affect. (Am J Addict 2020;29:134–140)
High‐fat diet pre‐conditioning improves microvascular remodelling during regeneration of ischaemic mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Nwadozi Emmanuel , Rudnicki Martina , De Ciantis Matthew , Milkovich Stephanie , Pulbere Alexandru , Roudier Emilie , Birot Olivier , Gustafsson Thomas , Ellis Christopher G. , Haas Tara L.
Published: February 2020

Aim

Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) is characterized by inadequate angiogenesis, arteriolar remodelling and chronic myopathy, which are most severe in type 2 diabetic patients. Hypertriglyceridaemia, commonly observed in these patients, compromises macrovascular function. However, the effects of high‐fat diet‐induced increases in circulating lipids on microvascular remodelling are not established. Here, we investigated if high‐fat diet would mimic the detrimental effect of type 2 diabetes on post‐ischaemia vascular remodelling and muscle regeneration, using a mouse model of hindlimb ischaemia.

Methods

Male C57Bl6/J mice were fed with normal or high‐fat diets for 8 weeks prior to unilateral femoral artery ligation. Laser doppler imaging was used to assess limb perfusion recovery. Vascular recovery, inflammation, myofibre regeneration and fibrosis were assessed at 4 or 14 days post‐ligation by histology and RNA analyses. Capillary‐level haemodynamics were assessed by intravital microscopy of control and regenerating muscles 14 days post‐ligation.

Results

High‐fat diet increased muscle succinate dehydrogenase activity and capillary‐level oxygen supply. At 4 days post‐ligation, no diet differences were detected in muscle damage, inflammatory infiltration or capillary activation. At 14 days post‐ligation, high fat‐fed mice displayed accelerated limb blood flow recovery, elevated capillary and arteriole densities as well as greater red blood cell supply rates and capillary‐level oxygen supply. Regenerating muscles from high fat‐fed mice displayed lower interstitial fat and collagen deposition.

Conclusion

The muscle‐level adaptations to high‐fat diet improved multiple aspects of muscle recovery in response to ischaemia and did not recapitulate the worse outcomes seen in diabetic CLI patients.
Real‐world data on safety and efficacy of venetoclax‐based regimens in relapsed/refractory t(11;14) multiple myeloma
Authors: Basali Diana , Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Rybicki Lisa , Rosko Nathaniel , Reed Janice , Karam Maryann , Schlueter Kristen , Dysert Hayley , Kalaycio Matt , Valent Jason
Published: February 2020

The treatment for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) continues to be challenging despite recent therapeutic advancements. Venetoclax, an inhibitor of the anti‐apoptotic protein BCL‐2, is a promising agent, especially in patients harbouring t(11;14). Our objective was to review our experience with venetoclax‐based regimens at our institution. All ten RRMM patients treated with venetoclax were included and had a median of six prior lines of therapy. The overall response rate was 78% and one patient with cardiac amyloidosis and MM achieved a cardiac organ response. Haematologic toxicities requiring red blood cell and platelet transfusion and non‐haematologic toxicities, most commonly gastrointestinal upset, were observed.
Volumetric assessment of unaffected parenchyma and Wilms’ tumours: analysis of response to chemotherapy and surgery using a semi‐automated segmentation algorithm in children with renal neoplasms
Authors: Rickard Mandy , Fernandez Nicolas , Blais Anne‐Sophie , Shalabi Ahmed , Amirabadi Afsaneh , Traubici Jeffrey , Lee Wayne , Gleason Joseph , Brzezinski Jack , Lorenzo Armando J.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To present our proof of concept with semi‐automatic image recognition/segmentation technology for calculation of tumour/parenchyma volume.

Methods

We reviewed Wilms' tumours (WTs) between 2000 and 2018, capturing computed tomography images at baseline, after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NaC) and postoperatively. Images were uploaded into MATLAB‐3‐D volumetric image processing software. The program was trained by two clinicians who supervised the demarcation of tumour and parenchyma, followed by automatic recognition and delineation of tumour margins on serial imaging, and differentiation from uninvolved renal parenchyma. Volume was automatically calculated for both.

Results

During the study period, 98 patients were identified. Of these, based on image quality and availability, 32 (38 affected moieties) were selected. Most patients (65%) were girls, diagnosed at age 50 ± 37 months of age. NaC was employed in 64% of patients. Surgical management included 27 radical and 11 partial nephrectomies. Automated volume assessment demonstrated objective response to NaC for unilateral and bilateral tumours (68 ± 20% and 53 ± 39%, respectively), as well as preservation on uninvolved parenchyma with partial nephrectomy (70 ± 46 cm3 at presentation to 57 ± 41 cm3 post‐surgery).

Conclusion

Volumetric analysis is feasible and allows objective assessment of tumour and parenchyma volume in response to chemotherapy and surgery. Our data show changes after therapy that may be otherwise difficult to quantify. Use of such technology may improve surgical planning and quantification of response to treatment, as well as serving as a tool to predict renal reserve and long‐term changes in renal function.
Parasitization of bats by bat flies (Streblidae) in fragmented habitats
Authors: Hiller Thomas , Brändel Stefan Dominik , Honner Benjamin , Page Rachel A. , Tschapka Marco
Published: February 2020

Parasites represent a large fraction of the world's biodiversity. They control host population sizes and contribute to ecosystem functioning. However, surveys on species diversity rarely include parasitic species. Bats often present traits favoring parasite diversity, such as large home ranges, long life spans, and large colonies. The most conspicuous bat parasites are the highly host‐specific, blood‐sucking bat flies (Diptera: Streblidae, Nycteribiidae). Recent studies have found a direct effect of habitat alteration on the abundance of bat species. We expected, therefore, that changes in the host community in response to anthropogenic habitat modification will also result in changes in the associated parasite community. We captured bats in three different habitats in Central Panama between 2013 and 2015. We recorded information on prevalence and intensity of bat fly parasitization of the seven most commonly captured bat species. Prevalence and intensity were both significantly influenced by roost type, abundance, and host sex and age. We found that habitat variables and matrix type significantly influenced the prevalence and intensity of parasitization, while the direction of the responses was host species‐ and parasite species‐specific. In general, roosting conditions and behavior of host bats appear to be fundamental in explaining changes in prevalence and intensity of parasitization between different habitat types, as bat flies are bound to the roost during their reproductive cycle. Habitat alterations affect next to the host community composition also the availability of possible roost structures as well as microclimatic conditions, which all three reflect in parasitization.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Schools as “Really Dangerous Places” for Indigenous Children and Youth: Schools, Child Welfare, and Contemporary Challenges to Reconciliation
Authors: Milne Emily , Wotherspoon Terry
Published: February 2020

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) final report called attention to the damage induced by government policies and practices and outlined a pathway toward reconciliation in which education and child welfare system reforms play a central role. Drawing from 61 interviews with teachers and parents of Indigenous children in Alberta, this paper addresses the question: what do intersections between schooling and child welfare systems contribute to prospects for meaningful reconciliation between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people in Canada? Findings suggest that, despite formal commitments to acknowledge and address colonial legacies of residential schooling, obligations to fulfill state child welfare and educational objectives continue to situate schools, for many Indigenous families, as “dangerous places.”
Pembrolizumab monotherapy in Japanese patients with advanced ovarian cancer: Subgroup analysis from the KEYNOTE‐100
Authors: Nishio Shin , Matsumoto Koji , Takehara Kazuhiro , Kawamura Naoki , Hasegawa Kosei , Takeshima Nobuhiro , Aoki Daisuke , Kamiura Shoji , Arakawa Atsushi , Kondo Eiji , Hirakawa Tomoko , Yamamoto Keiko , Aoki Masayuki , Stein Karen , Keefe Stephen , Fujiwara Keiichi , Ushijima Kimio
Published: February 2020

Interim results from the two‐cohort, phase 2 KEYNOTE‐100 study (NCT02674061) of 376 patients with previously treated advanced recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC) showed that pembrolizumab monotherapy was associated with an objective response rate (ORR) of 8.0% (95% CI, 5.4‐11.2). We present outcomes for the Japanese patients (n = 21) enrolled in KEYNOTE‐100. Patients with epithelial ROC had received either 1‐3 prior chemotherapy lines and had platinum‐free interval or treatment‐free interval (PFI; TFI) of 3‐12 months (cohort A) or 4‐6 prior chemotherapy lines and had PFI/TFI of ≥3 months (cohort B). All patients received pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks as monotherapy for 2 years or until progression, death, unacceptable toxicity or consent withdrawal. Primary objectives were ORR per RECIST v1.1 for each cohort and higher programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) tumor expression. The relationship between PD‐L1 expression (measured as combined positive score [CPS]) and ORR was assessed. Twenty‐one Japanese patients (cohort A, n = 19; cohort B, n = 2) were treated. The median (range) age was 57 (37‐78) years; 19 (90.5%) patients had ECOG status of 0 and 16 (76.2%) patients had stage III‐IV disease. ORR was 19.0% (95% CI, 5.4‐41.9) and seemed to increase with increasing PD‐L1 expression. A total of 13 (61.9%) patients had treatment‐related adverse events (TRAE), and 5 (23.8%) had grade 3‐4 TRAE. There were no treatment‐related deaths in this subpopulation. Pembrolizumab monotherapy was associated with antitumor activity in Japanese patients with ROC, with no new safety signals identified in this subpopulation. The data suggested a trend toward higher PD‐L1 expression among some patients with higher ORR.
Long‐term clinical and radiographic results after treatment or no treatment of small buccal bone dehiscences at posterior dental implants: A randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Waller Tobias , Herzog Milan , Thoma Daniel S. , Hüsler Jürg , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: February 2020

Aim

To test whether or not buccal vertical bone dehiscences (≤5 mm) around posterior implants left for spontaneous healing (SH) result in the same clinical and radiologic outcome as dehiscences treated with guided bone regeneration (GBR) at 7.5 years after implant placement (IMPL).

Materials and methods

Twenty‐two patients receiving 28 posterior implants with a small non‐contained buccal bone dehiscence (≤5 mm) were randomly assigned to the SH or the GBR group. Implants were loaded at 6 months. Clinical parameters (probing depths, sulcus bleeding index, plaque index) and approximal marginal radiographic bone levels were assessed regularly up to at least 6.8 years. The vertical extension of the dehiscences was measured clinically at IMPL and abutment connection and radiographically on cone beam computed tomographys at a mean follow‐up time of 7.5 years.

Results

Twenty patients with a total of 26 implants were recalled at 7.5 years (9.1% dropout). The implant/crown survival rates were 100% in both groups. Stable peri‐implant tissues were observed in both groups showing only minimal signs of inflammation. During the entire study period (IMPL—7.5‐year follow‐up), the median buccal vertical bone gain measured 1.61 mm for the GBR group and 0.62 for the SH group showing no significant difference between the groups. Also, at 7.5 years, the median approximal marginal bone levels (GBR: 0.53; SH: 0.68) were not significantly different between the two groups (p = .61) while the remaining median buccal vertical dehiscences were larger in the SH group (2.51 mm) compared to the GBR group (1.66 mm; p = .02).

Conclusions

Implants with small non‐contained buccal bone dehiscences exhibited high implant survival rates and healthy peri‐implant tissues at 7.5 years. In the GBR group, the buccal vertical bone levels were higher compared to the SH group but remained stable over the entire study period for both treatments.
Gains and limitations of a connected tracking solution in the perioperative follow‐up of colorectal surgery patients
Authors: Agri F. , Hahnloser D. , Demartines N. , Hübner M.
Published: February 2020

Aim

The means to target shorter hospital stay include information technology strategies to improve communication between caregivers and patients in order to limit potentially avoidable readmissions. The aim of the present study was to analyse the benefits and limitations of a smartphone‐based connected tracking solution in the perioperative follow‐up of colorectal surgery patients.

Method

This was a retrospective monocentric cohort study of consecutive patients after colorectal surgery between February and December 2018. The mobile health application included information delivery and daily structured questionnaires on a personalized patient electronic profile, before the hospital stay and for 7 days post‐discharge. The medical team answered automatic alerts in real time.

Results

A total of 93 eligible patients were approached and 36 had to be excluded (26 no smartphone, five no email, five not French speaking). Among the potential users, 50 (88%) engaged in an mHealth app and seven refused. Of these 50 patients, seven dropped out. Of the remaining 43 patients, the app detected 12 adverse events, and 10 (83%) were handled through the app. Healthcare providers responded to patient‐generated alerts after a median time of 90 min (range 9–448 min). Patients’ mean satisfaction level was 4 ± 0.97 out of 5.

Conclusion

In total, 88% of smartphone‐equipped patients showed a willingness to engage in mHealth. Reasons for exclusion were the absence of connection tools and a language barrier. Patients who responded to the survey were satisfied with the solution and 83% of post‐discharge adverse events were solved through the app, avoiding emergency consultations.
A rare case of primary dermal clear cell sarcoma with focal epidermotropism: An entity difficult to distinguish from melanoma
Authors: Nawrocki Shiri , Fitzhugh Valerie A. , Groisberg Roman , Aviv Hana A. , Maghari Amin
Published: February 2020

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is an uncommon soft‐tissue sarcoma that only rarely arises within the dermis. It is challenging to distinguish dermal CCS from nodular, primary dermal, or metastatic melanoma, as they share morphologic features and immunoprofiles. We describe a dermal CCS in a 25‐year‐old man with a cutaneous groin mass. The lesion was initially diagnosed as melanoma, likely metastatic. On consultation, in addition to a melanoma‐like tumor in the dermis, we identified focal infiltration of tumor cells into the overlying epidermis (epidermotropism), resembling primary nodular or metastatic melanoma. Given the patient's age and absence of a history of primary melanoma, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed, which revealed separation of the 5′ and 3′ EWSR1 probe signals on chromosome 22q12, prompting a diagnosis of CCS. Our case highlights the histopathological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural similarities between CCS and melanoma, and the consequent potential for major diagnostic confusion. In such cases, FISH analysis remains the key to diagnosis. CCS should be considered in patients with a melanoma‐like tumor in the dermis or subcutaneous tissue without epidermal (or with minimal) involvement, or prior to diagnosing metastatic melanoma in the absence of a known history of primary melanoma, especially in young individuals.
Perceptions of purchasing and payment mechanisms in alcohol and other drug treatment services in Australia: A qualitative study involving alcohol and other drug service providers and purchasers of treatment
Authors: van de Ven Katinka , Ritter Alison , Berends Lynda , Chalmers Jenny , Lancaster Kari
Published: February 2020

Introduction and Aims

Governments across the globe invest considerable amounts in funding alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment. Little attention however has been paid to the ways AOD service providers are chosen and how they are paid. This study sought to examine the perceptions of Australian AOD treatment purchasers and providers regarding different purchasing and payment mechanisms.

Design and Methods

Qualitative interviews with AOD treatment providers and purchasers (N = 197) were undertaken across the eight Australian states/territories and the Commonwealth. Data were collated against six main AOD treatment purchasing and payment mechanisms (as identified in the literature), then an inductive, comparative analysis to assign codes was conducted, followed by interpretive analysis to explore emergent themes.

Results

Five main themes were identified in relation to AOD treatment payment and purchasing mechanisms: (i) applying private sector principles to purchasing; (ii) innovation, sector stability and addressing client needs; (iii) performance monitoring and measuring outcomes; (iv) the threat to designated funding for AOD treatment; and (v) the costs and benefits of having multiple funding sources.

Discussion and Conclusions

In many countries reforms are taking place in the health sector consistent with New Public Management principles. These principles, when applied to AOD treatment, have included introducing competition, output and outcomes‐based funding models, standards and accountability. Purchaser and providers identified both strengths and weaknesses and highlighted the overarching concern that implementation of any (mix) of these mechanisms should always be underpinned by a client‐centred and not a finance‐centred approach.
Modelling the spatial distribution of cetaceans in New Zealand waters
Authors: Stephenson Fabrice , Goetz Kimberly , Sharp Ben R. , Mouton Théophile L. , Beets Fenna L. , Roberts Jim , MacDiarmid Alison B. , Constantine Rochelle , Lundquist Carolyn J.
Published: February 2020

Aim

Cetaceans are inherently difficult to study due to their elusive, pelagic and often highly migratory nature. New Zealand waters are home to 50% of the world's cetacean species, but their spatial distributions are poorly known. Here, we model distributions of 30 cetacean taxa using an extensive at‐sea sightings dataset (n > 14,000) and high‐resolution (1 km2) environmental data layers.

Location

New Zealand's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Methods

Two models were used to predict probability of species occurrence based on available sightings records. For taxa with <50 sightings (n = 15), Relative Environmental Suitability (RES), and for taxa with ≥50 sightings (n = 15), Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) models were used. Independently collected presence/absence data were used for further model evaluation for a subset of taxa.

Results

RES models for rarely sighted species showed reasonable fits to available sightings and stranding data based on literature and expert knowledge on the species' autecology. BRT models showed high predictive power for commonly sighted species (AUC: 0.79–0.99). Important variables for predicting the occurrence of cetacean taxa were temperature residuals, bathymetry, distance to the 500 m isobath, mixed layer depth and water turbidity. Cetacean distribution patterns varied from highly localised, nearshore (e.g., Hector's dolphin), to more ubiquitous (e.g., common dolphin) to primarily offshore species (e.g., blue whale). Cetacean richness based on stacked species occurrence layers illustrated patterns of fewer inshore taxa with localised richness hotspots, and higher offshore richness especially in locales of the Macquarie Ridge, Bounty Trough and Chatham Rise.

Main conclusions

Predicted spatial distributions fill a major knowledge gap towards informing future assessments and conservation planning for cetaceans in New Zealand's extensive EEZ. While sightings datasets were not spatially comprehensive for any taxa, these two best available approaches allow for predictive modelling of both more common, and of rarely sighted, cetacean species with limited available information.
H2O2 induces oxidative stress damage through the BMP‐6/SMAD/hepcidin axis
Authors: Chen Li , Ma Bo , Liu Xuan , Hao Yang , Yang Xiaogang , Liu Ming
Published: February 2020

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in elderly individuals worldwide. Oxidative stress injury to retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells plays a major role in the pathogenesis of AMD. The purpose of this study was to observe the correlation between Hepcidin and neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD) and to further observe whether oxidative stress can inhibit Hepcidin expression through relevant signaling pathways to produce oxidative damage. We compared the concentrations of Hepcidin in the aqueous humor of nAMD patients and a control group and found that the concentration of Hepcidin was lower in nAMD patients. Through PCR and western blotting, we observed that H2O2 can significantly inhibit the expression of Bone morphogenetic protein‐6 (BMP‐6) and Hepcidin and increase the intracellular iron concentration in RPE cells, while BMP‐6 can reverse the inhibition of Hepcidin and the increase in iron concentration caused by H2O2. In addition, alterations in smad1 and smad5 expression were examined, and pretreatment with BMP‐6 was demonstrated to reduce H2O2‐induced activation of smad1 and smad5. The effects of BMP‐6 were attenuated by smad1 and smad5 siRNA, further verifying that oxidative stress inhibits the expression of Hepcidin by inhibiting activation of the BMP/SMAD signaling pathway. To some extent, this study verified that oxidative stress injury plays a role in nAMD by affecting the level of hepcidin, which lays a foundation for exploring new methods to treat nAMD.
Older age of childhood type 1 diabetes onset is associated with islet autoantibody positivity >30 years later: the Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications Study
Authors: Miller R. G. , Yu L. , Becker D. J. , Orchard T. J. , Costacou T.
Published: February 2020

Aims

To examine the association between islet autoantibody positivity and clinical characteristics, residual β‐cell function (C‐peptide) and prevalence of complications in a childhood‐onset (age <17 years), long‐duration (≥32 years) type 1 diabetes cohort.

Methods

Islet autoantibodies (glutamic acid decarboxylase, insulinoma‐associated protein 2 and zinc transporter‐8 antibodies) were measured in the serum of participants who attended the 2011–2013 Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications study follow‐up examination (n=177, mean age 51 years, diabetes duration 43 years).

Results

Prevalences of islet autoantibodies were: glutamic acid decarboxylase, 32%; insulinoma‐associated protein 2, 22%; and zinc transporter‐8, 4%. Positivity for each islet autoantibody was associated with older age at diabetes onset (glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies, P=0.03; insulinoma‐associated protein 2 antibodies, P=0.001; zinc transporter‐8 antibodies, P<0.0001). Older age at onset was also associated with an increasing number of autoantibodies (P = 0.001). Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody positivity was also associated with lower HbA1c (P = 0.02), insulinoma‐associated protein 2 antibody positivity was associated with lower prevalence of severe hypoglycaemic episodes (P=0.02) and both distal and autonomic neuropathy (P=0.04 for both), and zinc transporter‐8 antibody positivity was associated with higher total and LDL cholesterol (P=0.01). No association between autoantibody positivity and C‐peptide was observed.

Conclusions

The strong association between islet autoantibody positivity and older age at type 1 diabetes onset supports the hypothesis of a less aggressive, and thus more persistent, immune process in those with older age at onset. This observation suggests that there may be long‐term persistence of heterogeneity in the underlying autoimmune process.
Evidence‐based treatment of hyperglycaemia with incretin therapies in patients with type 2 diabetes and advanced chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tuttle Katherine R. , McGill Janet B.
Published: February 2020

Type 2 diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence of CKD is growing in parallel with the rising number of patients with type 2 diabetes globally. At present, the optimal approach to glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and advanced CKD (categories 4 and 5) remains uncertain, as these patients were largely excluded from clinical trials of glucose‐lowering therapies. Nonetheless, clinical trial data are available for the use of incretin therapies, dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists, for patients with type 2 diabetes and advanced CKD. This review discusses the role of incretin therapies in the management of these patients. Because the presence of advanced CKD in patients with type 2 diabetes is associated with a markedly elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), treatment strategies must include the reduction of both CKD and CVD risks because death, particularly from cardiovascular causes, is more probable than progression to end‐stage kidney disease. The management of hyperglycaemia is essential for good diabetes care even in advanced CKD. Current evidence supports an individualized approach to glycaemic management in patients with type 2 diabetes and advanced CKD, taking account of the needs of each patient, including the presence of co‐morbidities and concomitant therapies. Although additional studies are needed to establish optimal strategies for glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and advanced CKD, treatment regimens with currently available pharmacotherapy can be individually tailored to meet the needs of this growing patient population.
Traumatic dental injuries presenting to a paediatric emergency department in a tertiary children's hospital, Adelaide, Australia
Authors: Ng Lydia , Malandris Michael , Cheung Wendy , Rossi‐Fedele Giampiero
Published: February 2020

Background/Aim

There is a scarcity of data regarding paediatric traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in tertiary teaching hospitals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to review the TDI presenting to the Women's and Children's Hospital in Adelaide (Australia) on an emergency basis and to identify the characteristics of the presenting patient cohort, their accident, injuries and management.

Methods

Medical health records of 337 paediatric patients attending the Paediatric Emergency Department (PED) for the management of TDI over 18 months were prospectively reviewed.

Results

TDI were more frequent in children under 5 years of age (56.1%) with a predominance of injuries sustained by males (63.8%). The accident characteristics included weekend occurrence (35.6%), the most common aetiology was falls (64.4%) and many incidents occurred at home (48.5%). Overall, 654 teeth were injured with the majority affecting deciduous teeth (58.4%) and the maxillary central incisors (69.9%). The most frequent injury was lateral luxation (27.5%). The majority of patients were referred to the Paediatric Dentistry Department (60.8%). However, almost half of presenting patients did not require further management locally and were subsequently discharged to their dental practitioners (39.2%). Most patients receiving treatment were managed under general anaesthetic (36.9%), and there was often a delay of 3‐12 hours before treatment commenced (49.1%). Similarly, more severe injuries in the permanent dentition (avulsion, extrusion, root fracture, intrusion, alveolar fracture) were more frequently managed between 3 and 12 hours following the accident.

Conclusion

The patient, accident, injury and management characteristics are comparable to what has previously been reported in other studies in paediatric populations. Injuries affecting the permanent dentition are more likely to be managed within 3 and 12 hours in an outpatient setting, whereas injuries affecting the deciduous dentition had a delay in management between 12 and 24 hours under general anaesthetic.
Sex differences in circadian endocrine rhythms: Clinical implications
Authors: Nicolaides Nicolas C. , Chrousos George P.
Published: February 2020

Organisms have developed a highly conserved and tightly regulated circadian system, to adjust their daily activities to day/night cycles. This system consists of a central clock, which is located in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus, and the peripheral clocks that are ubiquitously expressed in all tissues. Both the central and peripheral clocks communicate with each other and achieve circadian oscillations of gene expression through transcriptional/translational loops mediated by clock transcription factors. It is worth mentioning that circadian non‐transcriptional/non‐translational rhythms also occur in non‐nucleated cells. Interestingly, sex has been identified as an important factor influencing the activity of the circadian system. Indeed, several sex differences have been documented in the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology that pertain to circadian rhythms. In this review, we present the historical milestones of understanding circadian rhythms, describe the central and peripheral components of the circadian clock system, discuss representative examples of sexual dimorphism of circadian rhythms, and present the most relevant clinical implications.
Constraining oceanic oxygenation during the Shuram excursion in South China using thallium isotopes
Authors: Fan Haifeng , Nielsen Sune G. , Owens Jeremy D. , Auro Maureen , Shu Yunchao , Hardisty Dalton S. , Horner Tristan J. , Bowman Chelsie N. , Young Seth A. , Wen Hanjie
Published: February 2020

Ediacaran sediments record an unusual global carbon cycle perturbation that has been linked to widespread oceanic oxygenation, the Shuram negative C isotope excursion (NCIE). However, proxy‐based estimates of global ocean redox conditions during this event have been limited largely due to proxy specificity (e.g., euxinic sediments for Mo and U isotopes). Modern global seawater documents a homogenous Tl isotope composition (ε205Tl = −6.0) due to significant manganese oxide burial, which is recorded in modern euxinic sediments. Here, we provide new data documenting that sediments deposited beneath reducing but a non‐sulfidic water column from the Santa Barbara Basin (ε205Tl = −5.6 ± 0.1) also faithfully capture global seawater Tl isotope values. Thus, the proxy utilization of Tl isotopes can extend beyond strictly euxinic settings. Second, to better constrain the global redox conditions during the Shuram NCIE, we measured Tl isotopes of locally euxinic and ferruginous shales of the upper Doushantuo Formation, South China. The ε205Tl values of these shales exhibit a decreasing trend from ≈−3 to ≈−8, broadly coinciding with the onset of Shuram NCIE. There are ε205Tl values (−5.1 to −7.8) during the main Shuram NCIE interval that approach values more negative than modern global seawater. These results suggest that manganese oxide burial was near or even greater than modern burial fluxes, which is likely linked to an expansion of oxic conditions. This ocean oxygenation may have been an important trigger for the Shuram NCIE and evolution of Ediacaran‐type biota. Subsequently, Tl isotopes show an increasing trend from the modern ocean value to values near the modern global inputs or even heavier (ε205Tl ≈ −2.5 ~ 0.4), occurring prior to recovery from the NCIE. These records may suggest that there was a decrease in the extent of oxygenated conditions in the global oceans during the late stage of the Shuram NCIE.
Invader presence disrupts the stabilizing effect of species richness in plant community recovery after drought
Authors: Vetter Vanessa M. S. , Kreyling Juergen , Dengler Jürgen , Apostolova Iva , Arfin‐Khan Mohammed A. S. , Berauer Bernd J. , Berwaers Sigi , De Boeck Hans J. , Nijs Ivan , Schuchardt Max A. , Sopotlieva Desislava , von Gillhausen Philipp , Wilfahrt Peter A. , Zimmermann Maja , Jentsch Anke
Published: February 2020

Higher biodiversity can stabilize the productivity and functioning of grassland communities when subjected to extreme climatic events. The positive biodiversity–stability relationship emerges via increased resistance and/or recovery to these events. However, invader presence might disrupt this diversity–stability relationship by altering biotic interactions. Investigating such disruptions is important given that invasion by non‐native species and extreme climatic events are expected to increase in the future due to anthropogenic pressure. Here we present one of the first multisite invader × biodiversity × drought manipulation experiment to examine combined effects of biodiversity and invasion on drought resistance and recovery at three semi‐natural grassland sites across Europe. The stability of biomass production to an extreme drought manipulation (100% rainfall reduction; BE: 88 days, BG: 85 days, DE: 76 days) was quantified in field mesocosms with a richness gradient of 1, 3, and 6 species and three invasion treatments (no invader, Lupinus polyphyllus, Senecio inaequidens). Our results suggest that biodiversity stabilized community productivity by increasing the ability of native species to recover from extreme drought events. However, invader presence turned the positive and stabilizing effects of diversity on native species recovery into a neutral relationship. This effect was independent of the two invader's own capacity to recover from an extreme drought event. In summary, we found that invader presence may disrupt how native community interactions lead to stability of ecosystems in response to extreme climatic events. Consequently, the interaction of three global change drivers, climate extremes, diversity decline, and invasive species, may exacerbate their effects on ecosystem functioning.
Endodontic considerations of survival rate for autotransplanted third molars: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Lin P.‐Y. , Chiang Y.‐C. , Hsu L.‐Y. , Chang H.‐J. , Chi L.‐Y.
Published: February 2020

Aim

To investigate whether the timing of root canal treatment (primary aim) or other endodontic parameters (secondary aim) is associated with the survival probability of autotransplanted third molars, using a nationwide population‐based database.

Methodology

A total of 1811 third molars autotransplanted between 2000 and 2013 met the inclusion criteria and were followed until the end of 2016. The teeth were classified into three groups on the basis of timing between root canal treatment and the autotransplantation: preoperative, extraoral and postoperative treatment groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the association between the timing of root canal treatment and the risk of tooth extraction after autotransplantation.

Results

Of the 1811 autotransplanted third molars, 462 were extracted, yielding a 17‐year survival probability of 0.578. The survival probability of autotransplanted teeth that received postoperative root fillings after 17 years was 0.583, which was significantly higher than the 0.434 and 0.566 for teeth that received preoperative and extraoral root fillings, respectively (P = 0.0013). After adjustment for potential confounding factors, teeth that received postoperative root fillings were associated with a significantly lower tooth extraction hazard ratio (HR) compared with those that received extraoral root fillings (adjusted HR, 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–1.78) and those that received preoperative root fillings (adjusted HR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.19–3.82). Furthermore, the use of a rubber dam during postoperative root filling was associated with a significantly lower extraction rate after autotransplantation (adjusted HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.43–0.69).

Conclusions

Postoperative root canal treatment resulted in a significantly lower extraction rate than did preoperative or extraoral root canal treatment amongst autotransplanted third molars during a mean follow‐up period of 8.33 years. Rubber dam use is recommended during postoperative root canal treatment to improve the outcomes of autotransplantation.
Gendering consumer ethics
Authors: Chatzidakis Andreas , Maclaran Pauline
Published: February 2020

Consumer ethics research has greatly enhanced our knowledge of the social and environmental consequences and considerations of consumption choices. We argue, however, that gender theory introduces important aspects of ethical enquiry currently overlooked. To build our argument, we undertake a critical literature review that assesses current gender theory and related applications in gender and consumption research. In doing so, we offer a conceptual pathway that elucidates the intersection of gender with consumer ethics in relation to three distinct levels of understanding; socio‐economic, embodied‐affective and representational. Although fundamentally intertwined, for our current purposes, these are analytically distinct. Implications and avenues for future research into gendering consumer ethics are discussed.