bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous reactive angiomatosis associated with intravascular cryoprotein deposition as the presenting finding in a patient with underlying lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zacher Natasha C. , Bailey Elizabeth E. , Kwong Bernice Y. , Rieger Kerri E.
Published: October 2021

Cutaneous reactive angiomatosis, a group of disorders defined by benign vascular proliferation, is associated with a number of systemic processes, including intravascular occlusion by cryoproteins. We report a case of a 64‐year‐old female patient who presented with a 1‐year history of nontender petechiae of the bilateral arms and lower legs. Dermoscopic evaluation showed increased vascularity with a globular pattern. Over a period of months, her findings progressed to erythematous to violaceous plaques with admixed hypopigmented stellate scarring of the bilateral lower extremities, forearms, and lateral neck. Biopsy showed increased thin‐walled, small dermal blood vessels with focal inter‐anastamosis. Some vessels were occluded by eosinophilic globules suspicious for cryoprotein. Subsequent laboratory studies confirmed a diagnosis of type 1 cryoglobulinemia, prompting a bone marrow biopsy that revealed lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. Herein, we report the fourth case of angiomatosis secondary to intravascular cryoproteins as the initial presentation of an underlying hematologic malignancy. We also present a review of the literature and emphasize the need for thorough initial workup and close and prolonged clinical monitoring for underlying systemic disease in these patients.
Muscle synergy structure and gait patterns in children with spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Goudriaan Marije , Papageorgiou Eirini , Shuman Benjamin R , Steele Katherine M , Dominici Nadia , Van Campenhout Anja , Ortibus Els , Molenaers Guy , Desloovere Kaat
Published: October 2021

Aim

To determine if muscle synergy structure (activations and weights) differs between gait patterns in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

In this cross‐sectional study, we classified 188 children with unilateral (n=82) or bilateral (n=106) spastic CP (mean age: 9y 5mo, SD: 4y 3mo, range: 3y 9mo–17y 7mo; 75 females; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] level I: 106, GMFCS level II: 55, GMFCS level III: 27) into a minor deviations (n=34), drop foot (n=16), genu recurvatum (n=26), apparent equinus (n=53), crouch (n=39), and jump gait pattern (n=20). Surface electromyography recordings from eight lower limb muscles of the most affected side were used to calculate synergies with weighted non‐negative matrix factorization. We compared synergy activations and weights between the patterns.

Results

Synergy structure was similar between gait patterns, although weights differed in the more impaired children (crouch and jump gait) when compared to the other patterns. Variability in synergy structure between participants was high.

Interpretation

The similarity in synergy structure between gait patterns suggests a generic motor control strategy to compensate for the brain lesion. However, the differences in weights and high variability between participants indicate that this generic motor control strategy might be individualized and dependent on impairment level.
Persistence of islet autoantibodies after diagnosis in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Long Anna E. , George Gifty , Williams Claire L.
Published: October 2021

The presence of islet autoantibodies remains a reliable biomarker to identify individuals at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes. As such, these autoantibodies play a pivotal role in understanding the prodrome of diabetes and selecting individuals for both prevention and intervention clinical trials. Over the last few decades, studies have sought to investigate autoantibody prevalence after diabetes onset to better understand ongoing islet autoimmunity; however, many findings are contradictory, and little is known about factors that may influence autoantibody persistence. Generally, glutamate decarboxylase autoantibodies (GADAs) are the most prevalent autoantibodies after diagnosis, particularly in adults, whilst zinc transporter 8 autoantibodies (ZnT8A) prevalence declines more rapidly. However, when studies with islet autoantibody data at diagnosis are considered, it becomes clear that overall islet antigen‐2 autoantibodies (IA‐2A) tend to persist for longer than GADA or ZnT8A. In this review, we assess the major studies that have contributed to our understanding of autoantibody persistence after diabetes onset and what factors affect this. Islet autoantibodies may provide biomarkers for long‐term β‐cell function and insights into how to prevent ongoing islet autoimmunity but larger studies collecting samples at and decades after diabetes onset are required to leverage the information they could provide.
Efficacy of iGlarLixi in adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled (glycated haemoglobin ≥8%, ≥64 mmol/mol) on two oral antidiabetes drugs: Post hoc analysis of the LixiLan‐O randomized trial
Authors: Davies Melanie J. , Rosenstock Julio , Ali Amar , Russell‐Jones David , Souhami Elisabeth , Palmer Karen , Ji Chen , Niemoeller Elisabeth , Skolnik Neil
Published: October 2021

Aims

To assess the efficacy and safety of iGlarLixi (the titratable fixed‐ratio combination of insulin glargine 100 U/mL [iGlar] plus lixisenatide [Lixi]), in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels ≥8% (≥64 mmol/mol).

Materials and methods

The LixiLan‐O study (NCT02058147) compared iGlarLixi with iGlar or Lixi in adults with T2D inadequately controlled on metformin ± a second oral antidiabetes drug (OAD). This exploratory analysis evaluated the LixiLan‐O subgroup of participants with baseline HbA1c levels of ≥8% (≥64 mmol/mol) who were receiving metformin plus a second OAD at screening.

Results

The mean diabetes duration was 10.0 years, and the mean duration of second OAD use was 4.5 years. iGlarLixi demonstrated greater mean reductions from baseline in HbA1c and 2‐hour postprandial glucose (PPG) compared with iGlar or Lixi (HbA1c −1.9% vs. −1.6% or −1.0% [−20 vs. −17 or −10 mmol/mol; 2‐hour PPG −7.2 vs. −4.6 or −5.5 mmol/L). Greater proportions of participants achieved HbA1c <7% (<53 mmol/mol) with iGlarLixi versus iGlar or Lixi (67% vs. 51% or 18%), and the composite endpoints of HbA1c <7% (<53 mmol/mol) with no body weight gain (36% vs. 19% or 16%), and HbA1c <7% (<53 mmol/mol) with no body weight gain and no documented symptomatic hypoglycaemia (plasma glucose ≤3.9 mmol/L; 28% vs. 15% or 15%). The incidence rates of documented symptomatic hypoglycaemia were 29.0%, 27.9% and 12.1% for iGlarLixi, iGlar and Lixi, respectively.

Conclusions

Adults with T2D and HbA1c ≥64 mmol/mol (≥8%) despite two OADs at screening achieved better glycaemic control with iGlarLixi versus iGlar or Lixi, without increased risk of hypoglycaemia versus iGlar.
The unequal burden of retirement reform: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Morris Todd
Published: October 2021

As governments try to contain rising expenditure on retirement pensions by increasing eligibility ages, there are concerns that such reforms disproportionately affect poorer households. Using detailed longitudinal data, I examine this trade‐off in the context of an Australian reform that increased women’s pension‐eligibility age from 60 to 65. While this reform significantly reduced government spending on women at affected ages, the negative effects on household incomes were concentrated among poorer households. These unequal impacts meant that the reform temporarily increased relative poverty rates among affected women by around four percentage points and inequality measures by 6% to 19%.
Do economic conditions affect climate change beliefs and support for climate action? Evidence from the US in the wake of the Great Recession
Authors: Meyer Andrew G.
Published: October 2021

I show that climate skepticism increases with negative economic shocks and that the effects are concentrated among individuals in the labor force. I primarily employ a panel of US individuals in the period following the Great Recession, but also find consistent results with an alternative instrumental variables strategy. Among labor force participants, a one‐percentage point increase in the local unemployment rate leads to a three to five percentage point decrease in the probability of believing climate change is real and requires action. I conclude that support for climate change policies could depend on labor market conditions.
Standardized study of atorvastatin possible osteoarthritis disease‐modifying effect in a rat model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Gaballah Ali , Genedy Doaa , Ghayaty Essam , El‐Hawwary Amany A. , Elmasry Ahlam
Published: October 2021

We studied the osteoarthritis (OA)‐modifying effects of atorvastatin in an experimental OA rat model and possible underlining mechanisms. We used 62 adult male Sprague–Dawley rats (250–300 g): 32 rats were used to assess the effects of atorvastatin on surgically induced OA in the knee, and 30 rats were used to assess the potential inflammatory effects of carrageenan‐induced paw edema. In the OA model, joint stiffness was assessed by measuring the knee extension angle, and pathological changes in the OA knee joint were determined by histological examination and the measurement of serum biochemical markers, including interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13), and reduced glutathione (GSH). In the carrageenan‐induced paw edema model, both paw thickness and pain threshold were assessed in different groups. Atorvastatin significantly improved joint stiffness, pathological changes, a significant mitigation of the higher MMP‐13 and IL‐1β, and a significant increase of reduced GSH in OA rats. Additionally, atorvastatin significantly improved both paw thickness and pain threshold in animals. Atorvastatin is a potential OA‐modifying drug that warrants further clinical investigation.
Commingled Fluids in Abandoned Boreholes: Proximity Analysis of a Hidden Liability
Authors: Perra Christopher , McIntosh Jennifer C. , Watson Theresa , Ferguson Grant
Published: October 2021

The interactions between old abandoned wellbores of suspect well integrity with hydraulic fracturing (HF), enhanced oil recovery (EOR), or salt water disposal (SWD) operations can result in upward leakage of deep aqueous liquids into overlying aquifers. This potential for upward fluid migration is largely unquantified as monitoring abandoned wells is rarely done, and leakage may go unnoticed especially when in deeper aquifers. This study performs a proximity analysis between old abandoned wells and HF, EOR, and SWD wells, and identifies commingled old abandoned wellbores, which are those wells where groundwater may flow from one aquifer to one or more other aquifers, to identify the locations with the greatest potential for upward aqueous fluid migration at three study sites in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. Our analysis indicates that at all three study sites there are several locations where HF, EOR, or SWD operations are located in close proximity to a given old abandoned well. Much of this overlap occurs in formations above typically produced hydrocarbon reservoirs but below exploited potable aquifers, otherwise known as the intermediate zone, which is often connected between abandonment plugs in old abandoned wells. Information on the intermediate zone is often lacking, and this study suggests that unanticipated alterations to groundwater flow systems within the intermediate zone may be occurring. Results indicate the need for more field‐based research on the intermediate zone.
Social distancing and bacteraemia in the time of COVID‐19
Authors: Feldman Itamar , Natsheh Ayman , Nesher Gideon , Breuer Gabriel S.
Published: October 2021

Background

Social distancing was the predominant strategy used to mitigate the spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) at the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Aims

To study the impact of social distancing on the incidence of bacteraemia. The number of admitted patients with positive blood cultures in April–May 2020 in one tertiary medical centre was compared with the number during the same period in the previous 3 years (April–May 2017–2019).

Methods

Retrospective review of all positive blood cultures from January to July in the years 2017–2020.

Results

There were fewer cases of Streptococcus bacteraemia as well as coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus bacteraemia and other possible contaminated blood cultures in April–May 2020. Compared with the previous 3 years, the incidence of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteraemia among all bacteraemias was lower in April–May 2020 (5%) than in 2017–2019 (12.0%; 95% confidence interval 10.3–14.1%). In general, fewer cases of bacteraemia caused by oropharynx organisms were observed in April–May 2020; only 6 cases versus 31 (95% confidence interval 10–53) during the same period in 2017–2019. Only one case of S. pneumoniae bacteraemia was observed in April–May 2020 and its percentage among all bacteraemias was lower in April–May 2020 (0.4%) than during the same period in 2017–2019 (3.3%).

Conclusion

The incidences of streptococcal bacteraemia and bacteraemia of organisms transmitted through respiratory secretions were lower when there were social distancing restrictions. Adopting measures of social distancing may decrease the morbidity from bacteraemia caused by oropharynx and respiratory bacteria.
A systematic review of ozone therapy for treating chronically refractory wounds and ulcers
Authors: Wen Qing , Liu Dongying , Wang Xian , Zhang Yanli , Fang Song , Qiu Xianliang , Chen Qiu
Published: October 2021

This study aims at evaluating the efficacy and safety of ozone therapy for chronic wounds. The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Ovid Embase, Web of Science, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database were searched. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) about participants with chronic wounds were included. Risk of bias assessment was performed by the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool. A randomised‐effects model was applied to pool results according to the types of wounds or ulcers. Among 12 included studies, ozone was implemented by topical application (ozone gas bath, ozonated oil, ozone water flushing) and systematic applications including autologous blood immunomodulation and rectal insufflation. The results indicated compared with standard control therapy for diabetic foot ulcers, ozone therapy regardless of monotherapy or combined control treatment markedly accelerated the improvement of the wound area(standardised mean difference(SMD) = 66.54%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [46.18,86.90], P < .00001) and reduced the amputation rate (risk ration (RR) = 0.36, 95% CI = [0.24,0.54], P < .00001). But there is no improvement in the proportion of participants with completely healed wounds and length of hospital stay. No adverse events associated with ozone treatment have been reported. And the efficacy of ozone therapy for other wound types is still uncertain because of no sufficient studies. More high‐quality randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of ozone therapy for chronic wounds or ulcers.
A Responsiveness View of logistics and supply chain management
Authors: Richey Robert Glenn , Roath Anthony S. , Adams Frank G. , Wieland Andreas
Published: October 2021

The emergence of logistics and supply chain management as a fully mature business discipline may depend on the development of foundational supply chain management perspectives embracing a focus on responsiveness. Hundreds of papers in our field conceptualize responsiveness and related concepts in disconnected ways ignoring this potentially valuable foundation for investigating supply chain strategic and logistical adjustments. Although these extant studies highlight many important issues related to responsiveness, their conceptualizations and nomological networks vary considerably. This diffuse focus seriously hinders efforts to create an overarching theoretical perspective in a dynamic field without one. The result is a masking of promising research directions that could help define the discipline. Drawing from the organizational economics, logistics, and supply chain management literatures, we begin the argument that responsiveness—realized through logistics and supply chain management—has strong potential as our defined foundational perspective. All roads to superior performance depend upon supply chain responsiveness to the environment, supply chain members, stakeholders, and the consumer. Our proposed Responsiveness View of supply chain management supports the exploration of how supply chains compete successfully amidst disruption and change, helping to define a young, theoretically distinct, research domain.
Profiling knowledge brokers in the rehabilitation sector across Canada: A descriptive study
Authors: Gaid Dina , Ahmed Sara , Thomas Aliki , Bussières André
Published: October 2021

Rationale

Knowledge brokers (KBs) can help promote the uptake of the latest research evidence into clinical practice. Little is known about who they are, the types of roles they perform, and the training they receive. Establishing a portrait of Canadian KBs working in the rehabilitation sector may inform health care organizations and knowledge translation specialists on how best to advance KBs practices. The overall goal was to describe the profile of KBs working to promote the uptake of evidence within rehabilitation settings in Canada. Specifically, this study aimed to describe the sociodemographic and professional characteristics, work activities, and training of KBs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was administered to KBs working in rehabilitation settings across Canada. The survey included 20 questions covering sociodemographic and professional characteristics, work activities, and training opportunities. Response frequency and percentage were calculated for all categorical variables, and the weighted average (WA) for each role was calculated across participants. Descriptive analysis was conducted for all open‐ended questions.

Results

Of 475 participants accessing the website, 198 completed the survey questionnaire, including 99 clinicians, 35 researchers, and 26 managers. While over two‐thirds of respondents had completed a graduate degree, only 38% reported receiving KBs‐related training. The respondents' primary roles corresponded to a linking agent (WA = 1.84), followed by capacity builder (WA = 1.76), information manager (WA = 1.71), facilitator (WA = 1.41), and evaluator (WA = 1.32).

Conclusions

KBs are mostly expert clinicians who tend to perform brokering activities part‐time targeting their peers. Participants mostly perform the linking agent, capacity builder, and information roles. Moreover, only a few participants received formal training to perform brokering activities.
The PGO concept: Prosthetically guided orthodontics concept
Authors: Blasi Alvaro , Blasi Ignacio , Henarejos‐Domingo Victor , Castellano Vincenzo , Blasi Jose Ignacio , Blasi Gonzalo
Published: October 2021

Objective

The aim of this case report is to present a novel digital approach of guiding orthodontics and periodontal surgery by creating interim restorations that represent the final shape of the teeth before starting the treatment.

Clinical considerations

The patient presented with worn dentition, super‐erupted maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth, and altered passive eruption, all this creating a gummy smile. Following a digital wax‐up design, a digital orthodontic set‐up, and the digital bracket bonding, temporary restorations, and bracket indirect bonding trays were fabricated. Restorations' cementation, bracket bonding, and periodontal surgery were performed the same day. After 14 months of orthodontic treatment, teeth were restored with final ceramic restorations. One year and 6 months was the total treatment duration.

Conclusion

Prosthetically guided orthodontic concept allows the use of digital technology to simulate the final outcome of the patient treatment before starting dental therapy. This technique not only improves the communication between specialists, it also reduces treatment time and increases precision and predictability.

Clinical significance

The prosthetically guided orthodontics (PGO) concept has the goal to start interdisciplinary therapy with a simulation of the final outcome. Giving the worn teeth their proper size through interim restorations prior to orthodontic therapy will guide the orthodontist from the beginning of the treatment and will improve communications between all the specialists. Through a digital approach, a digital wax‐up and an orthodontic digital set‐up the objectives of treatment can be established early on.
Visualization of heavy metal cadmium in lettuce leaves based on wavelet support vector machine regression model and visible‐near infrared hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Zhou Xin , Sun Jun , Zhang Yuechun , Tian Yan , Yao Kunshan , Xu Min
Published: October 2021

In order to effectively detect the distribution of Cd in lettuce leaves, this article proposes a wavelet support vector machine regression (WSVR) modeling method and uses it in the prediction of cadmium (Cd) content in lettuce leaves. In addition, this article also observed the internal and external tissue structure of lettuce leaves under different concentrations of Cd stress by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the lettuce leaf samples under different Cd concentration stresses were acquired by the hyperspectral imaging system, different preprocessing algorithms combined with dimensionality reduction algorithms were used to select the spectral characteristic wavelengths, and SVR and WSVR models were established based on the spectral characteristic data. The results showed that with the increase of Cd concentration, the internal and external tissue structure of lettuce leaves changed significantly. The WSVR model parameters for the best prediction of Cd concentration in lettuce were Rp2 of 0.8843, RMSEP of 0.1292 mg/kg. Finally, the Cd contents in lettuce leaves were visualized on the prediction maps by predicted spectral features on each hyperspectral image pixel.

Practical Applications

It is of great significance to realize the visual expression of the distribution of heavy metals in crop leaves through nondestructive testing. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of Vis‐NIR hyperspectral imaging technology for the detection of cadmium (Cd) content in lettuce leaves, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to observe the internal and external tissue structure of lettuce leaves under different concentrations of Cd. Wavelet support vector machine regression modeling method was proposed and used to predict the Cd content in lettuce leaves. It is proved that the Vis‐NIR hyperspectral imaging technology is a feasible and effective method to realize the visualization of Cd content distribution in crop leaves.
A comparison of 9‐min colonoscopy withdrawal time and 6‐min colonoscopy withdrawal time: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bhurwal Abhishek , Rattan Puru , Sarkar Avik , Patel Anish , Haroon Shahid , Gjeorgjievski Mihajlo , Bansal Vikas , Mutneja Hemant
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The optimal colonoscopy withdrawal time is still a controversial topic. While several studies demonstrate that longer withdrawal time improves adenoma detection rate, others have contradicted these findings.

Methods

Three independent reviewers performed a comprehensive review of all original articles published from inception to January 2021 and included studies reporting comparison of the two cohorts—(i) ≥ 6 but less than 9 min of colonoscopy withdrawal time (CWT) and (ii) ≥ 9 min of CWT. The outcome measures were the following: (i) adenoma detection rate (ADR), (ii) advanced ADR, and (iii) sessile serrated adenoma detection rate (SDR). The meta‐analysis was performed, and the statistics were two‐tailed.

Results

A total of seven studies met the inclusion criteria after a thorough search of the literature was completed. The analysis revealed that ≥ 9 min of CWT had significantly higher odds of adenoma detection as compared with 6–9 min of CWT (odds ratio [OR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30–1.82; I2 = 93.7). Additionally, a significantly higher odds of sessile serrated adenoma detection (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.28–2.22; I2 = 0) and a trend towards higher odds of advanced adenoma detection (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.98–1.95, I2 = 90) were seen with CWT of at least 9 min when compared with 6–9 min of CWT.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis analysis provides further evidence that at least 9 min of CWT cohort had significantly higher ADR and SDR as compared with the at least 6 min but less than 9 min of cohort.
Long‐term hepatic function of patients with compensated cirrhosis following successful direct‐acting antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Ogawa Eiichi , Kawano Akira , Ooho Aritsune , Furusyo Norihiro , Satoh Takeaki , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Kajiwara Eiji , Dohmen Kazufumi , Nakamuta Makoto , Azuma Koichi , Koyanagi Toshimasa , Yamashita Nobuyuki , Yanagita Kimihiko , Ichiki Yasunori , Kuniyoshi Masami , Yamashita Naoki , Morita Chie , Sugimoto Rie , Kato Masaki , Shimoda Shinji , Nomura Hideyuki , Hayashi Jun ,   The Kyushu University Liver Disease Study (KULDS) Group
Published: October 2021

Background and Aim

Direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) have contributed to the improvement of outcomes for all patients with chronic hepatitis C. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term hepatic benefits of hepatitis C virus (HCV) cure by DAAs in patients with compensated cirrhosis.

Methods

This multicenter cohort study consisted of consecutive patients with compensated cirrhosis who initiated interferon‐free DAA treatment before September 2016. The impact of treatment on long‐term hepatic function was followed for at least 4 years after the end of treatment, and the progression to decompensation was evaluated.

Results

The data of 394 patients were available for study. The median age was 70, and 41% had modified albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) grade 2b. During a short‐term follow‐up 1 year after the end of treatment, FIB‐4 index and ALBI score significantly improved. The achievement rates of FIB‐4 < 3.25 (40%) and ALBI grade 1 (70%) reached their plateau in the first year; however, there were significant further improvements in platelet count and α‐fetoprotein level after the first year. The annual incidence of decompensation was 1.30 (95% confidence interval 0.83–2.02) per 100 person‐years. In multivariable analysis, male sex and modified ALBI grade 2b at baseline were associated with decompensation.

Conclusions

In a large real‐world cohort of patients with compensated cirrhosis treated with a DAA, remarkable improvement in hepatic function was seen after HCV cure, especially during the first year after the end of treatment. Treatment in the early stage of cirrhosis would be of great benefit for preventing liver deterioration to decompensation.
Speech production accuracy in children with Down syndrome: relationships with hearing, language, and reading ability and change in speech production accuracy over time
Authors: Burgoyne K. , Buckley S. , Baxter R.
Published: October 2021

Background

This study examines speech production accuracy in children with Down syndrome and concurrent relationships with hearing, language and reading ability. It also examines change in speech production accuracy over a 21‐month period.

Methods

A group of 50 children with Down syndrome (aged 5–10 years) completed measures of speech accuracy, non‐verbal IQ, reading (single‐word reading, letter–sound knowledge and phoneme blending) and language (expressive and receptive vocabulary and receptive grammar). Hearing was assessed by parental report. Speech accuracy was reassessed 21 months later.

Results

Although there was considerable variability in the sample, speech was characterised by high levels of errors. There were no effects of gender, hearing status or non‐verbal IQ on speech production accuracy. In contrast, speech production accuracy was significantly related to age and to measures of receptive vocabulary, phoneme blending and word reading. There was no significant improvement in speech production accuracy over time.

Conclusions

Children with Down syndrome experience difficulties producing accurate sounds in speech. These difficulties are related to age and to vocabulary and reading skills and persist over time, highlighting the need for intensive targeted speech intervention in this group of children.
An Epidemiological Model of Economic Crisis Spread across Sectors in the United States
Authors: JANSSENS EVA F. , LUMSDAINE ROBIN L. , VERMEULEN SEBASTIAAN H.L.C.G.
Published: October 2021

This paper develops a discrete‐time epidemiological model to characterize the spread of economic deterioration across sectors in the United States for the period 1952–2015. It is the first model to apply an epidemiological approach to consider such spread using macroeconomic Flow of Funds data. By extending the usual one‐period Markov model to a two‐period setting, we incorporate the possibility that an initial slow growth period may either continue further or improve such that further economic deterioration is averted. The estimated model can be used to classify more versus less contagious sectors and identify their channels of transmission.
Low anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S antibody levels predict increased mortality and dissemination of viral components in the blood of critical COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Martin‐Vicente María , Almansa Raquel , Martínez Isidoro , Tedim Ana P. , Bustamante Elena , Tamayo Luis , Aldecoa César , Gómez José Manuel , Renedo Gloria , Berezo Jose Ángel , Cedeño Jamil Antonio , Mamolar Nuria , García Olivares Pablo , Herrán‐Monge Rubén , Cicuendez Ramón , Enríquez Pedro , Ortega Alicia , Jorge Noelia , Doncel Cristina , de la Fuente Amanda , Bustamante‐Munguira Juan , Muñoz‐Gómez María José , González‐Rivera Milagros , Puertas Carolina , Más Vicente , Vázquez Mónica , Pérez‐García Felipe , Rico‐Feijoo Jesús , Martín Silvia , Motos Anna , Fernandez‐Barat Laia , Eiros Jose María , Dominguez‐Gil Marta , Ferrer Ricard , Barbé Ferrán , Trapiello Wysali , Kelvin David J. , Bermejo‐Martin Jesús F. , Resino Salvador , Torres Antoni
Published: October 2021

Background

Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S antibodies prevent viral replication. Critically ill COVID‐19 patients show viral material in plasma, associated with a dysregulated host response. If these antibodies influence survival and viral dissemination in ICU‐COVID patients is unknown.

Patients/Methods

We studied the impact of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S antibodies levels on survival, viral RNA‐load in plasma, and N‐antigenaemia in 92 COVID‐19 patients over ICU admission.

Results

Frequency of N‐antigenaemia was >2.5‐fold higher in absence of antibodies. Antibodies correlated inversely with viral RNA‐load in plasma, representing a protective factor against mortality (adjusted HR [CI 95%], p): (S IgM [AUC ≥ 60]: 0.44 [0.22; 0.88], 0.020); (S IgG [AUC ≥ 237]: 0.31 [0.16; 0.61], <0.001). Viral RNA‐load in plasma and N‐antigenaemia predicted increased mortality: (N1‐viral load [≥2.156 copies/ml]: 2.25 [1.16; 4.36], 0.016); (N‐antigenaemia: 2.45 [1.27; 4.69], 0.007).

Conclusions

Low anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S antibody levels predict mortality in critical COVID‐19. Our findings support that these antibodies contribute to prevent systemic dissemination of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Wealth accumulation by hypogamy in own and parental education in China
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Zhou Yang
Published: October 2021

Objective

This study examines how household wealth accumulation varies by different types of hypogamy on the basis of couples' own and parental education.

Background

Educational hypogamy (wives having more education than their husbands) is increasingly relevant in many societies, given the reversal of the gender gap in education. Prior research has studied how marital sorting on couples' own education shapes their individual earnings trajectories. Few have examined the implications of marital sorting on parental education for family‐level economic well‐being.

Method

Using data from the 2010–2018 China Family Panel Studies and multilevel growth curve models, this study examined how household wealth trajectories over years of marriage differ by types of hypogamy. Hypogamy in the child generation (wives having more education), hypogamy in the parent generation (wives having more parental education), and hypogamy in both generations (wives having more own and parental education) were compared to hypogamy in neither generation (wives having neither more own nor parental education).

Results

Hypogamy in either the child or the parent generation accumulated more total wealth and housing wealth than hypogamy in neither generation. Hypogamy in both generations experienced the fastest gains in total wealth.

Conclusion

Hypogamy on the basis of couples' own or parental education is associated with more household wealth and faster wealth accumulation over years of marriage.

Implications

This study sheds light on the long‐term implications of hypogamy based on the education of two generations for wealth stratification.
Parent and Child Perceptions of Barriers to Active School Commuting
Authors: Pfledderer Christopher D. , Burns Ryan D. , Byun Wonwoo , Carson Russell L. , Welk Gregory J. , Brusseau Timothy A.
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Active commuting (AC) to and from school can contribute to physical activity, although it has recently seen a global decline. The purpose of this study was to examine the agreement between parent and child perceptions of barriers to school AC.

METHODS

Participants were parents (N = 152, Mage = 40.6 ± 6.3 years) and elementary school children (N = 98, Mage = 10.0 ± 1.2 years). School commute type/frequency and barriers to AC were collected via surveys. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to assess relative agreement between parent and child perceptions (N = 98 dyads). Paired t tests and equivalence testing were employed to assess group‐level agreement. Bland‐Altman analysis was used to assess individual‐level agreement. Partial correlations of AC with perceptions were also assessed.

RESULTS

All parent and child perceptions of barriers to AC to school had low agreement. Bland‐Altman Plots indicated negative bias for all but 3 barrier perceptions. Paired t tests indicated significant differences between parent and child perceptions for 8 out of 15 barriers while equivalence testing deemed no parent‐child perception equivalent. Partial correlations with AC frequency were significant for 7 parent perceptions and 2 child perceptions.

CONCLUSIONS

Parent and child perceptions have low agreement. Programs aimed at promoting AC to and from school should account for these discrepancies.
Macro‐ and micro‐scale adaptations allow distinct Stylophora pistillata‐symbiodiniaceae holobionts to optimize performance across a broad light habitat
Authors: Kaniewska Paulina , Sampayo Eugenia M.
Published: October 2021

In sessile organisms, phenotypic plasticity represents an important strategy for dealing with environmental variability. Here we test if phenotypic plasticity enables the common coral Stylophora pistillata to occupy a broad niche. We find clear differences in the photo‐physiology of four putative species of photosynthetic dinoflagellate symbionts associated with the coral S. pistillata, namely, Cladocopium ‘C35a’, ‘C79’, ‘C78a’ and ‘C8a’. Coral phenotypic responses were also tightly linked to symbiont identity. Corals with Cladocopium ‘C8a’ have more “open” macro‐morphology compared to colonies associating with depth‐restricted Cladocopium ‘C35a’ or ‘C78a’ in the same shallow water habitat. Corals with Cladocopium ‘C8a’ had 40 to 60% lower symbiont cell densities compared to other holobionts but were more efficient at acclimating over a range of light levels, with clear mechanisms to dissipate excess light energy. This holobiont contains host‐based green fluorescent pigments, increased concentrations of symbiont‐based mycosporine amino acids, and xanthophyll cycling in high light habitats. Photosynthetic efficiency was also adjusted over the light habitat. In contrast, limited micro‐scale responses were observed between three depth‐restricted symbionts: Cladocopium ‘C79’, ‘C35a’, and ‘C78a’. To optimize light levels reaching the photosynthetic unit, these colonies rely on a more closed macro‐morphology under high light levels, which reduces incident light levels by up to 43%, and higher symbiont densities . Our results show that distinct macro‐ and micro‐scale adaptations lead to functional differences between four distinct S. pistillata holobionts, allowing them to co‐exist by filling specific niches on a small, but environmentally diverse, spatial scale.

Key index words: Light, Symbiodiniaceae, coral, pigments, Stylophora pistillata, ITS2, phenotypic plasticity, niche diversification.
IL10 promoter rs6667202 polymorphism is functional in health but not in grade c periodontitis patients: A pilot study
Authors: Stolf Camila S. , Sacramento Catharina M. , Paz Hélvis E. S. , Machado Renato A. , Ramos Lucas P. , de Oliveira Luciane D. , Cogo‐Müller Karina , Santamaria Mauro P. , Ruiz Karina G. S. , Casarin Renato C. V.
Published: October 2021

Background and objective

Previous studies have demonstrated an association between the IL10 promoter rs6667202 (C > A) single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and grade C, stage 3 or 4 periodontitis (Perio4C) in the Brazilian population, where the altered A allele was detected more frequently in these patients. However, no functional analysis of this variation has yet been performed. Thus, the objective of this preliminary study was to evaluate the functionality of rs6667202 in gingival fibroblasts (GFs) of individuals with Perio4C and with periodontal health (PH) stimulated with Aggregatibacter actinomycetencomitans protein extract (AaPE).

Methods

Patients with PH and Perio4C were segregated according to their genotype (AA, AC, or CC), and a biopsy was performed to establish the culture of the GFs. After GFs exposure to AaPE at 5 µg/ml for 1.5 h, RNA was extracted to analyze IL10 expression by qPCR. Aliquots of the cell's supernatant were subjected to immunoenzymatic analysis (MAGpix) to detect interleukin‐10 (IL‐10).

Results

In PH, the genotypes AA and AC are related to less expression of IL10 (p = 0.027 and p < 0.0001) and less production of IL‐10 (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001), when compared to CC. In Perio4C, there was no statistical difference between the genotypes (p > 0.05), although a lower IL‐10 expression and release compared with PH CC was seen (p = 0.033 and p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The rs6667202 SNP is functional in PH, as it decreases the expression and production of IL‐10. In Perio4C, other factors may be masking its action by altering the IL‐10's response.
Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography to detect hepatic and splenic lymphomatous infiltration in dogs and cats
Authors: Sumping J. C. , Maddox T. W. , Killick D. , Mortier J. R.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography in the detection of lymphomatous infiltration of the liver and spleen in a population of dogs and cats with lymphoma. To determine if specific ultrasonographic features of the liver and spleen in dogs are associated with lymphomatous infiltration or a specific immunophenotype of multi‐centric lymphoma.

Materials and Methods

A blinded retrospective evaluation of ultrasonographic images of the liver and/or spleen in dogs and cats with cytologically or histologically confirmed lymphoma was performed by two board‐certified veterinary radiologists.

Results

A total of 161 animals met the inclusion criteria, comprising 132 dogs and 29 cats. Ultrasonography had a sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 16.7%, 91.0%, 55.9%, 62.5% and 55.0% for the detection of lymphomatous infiltration of the liver, and 73.1%, 93.9%, 82.6%, 93.4% and 74.7% for the spleen. In dogs, an ultrasonographically normal liver was associated with not having lymphomatous infiltration, leopard‐spotted splenic parenchyma and splenomegaly were independently associated with lymphomatous infiltration and leopard‐spotted splenic parenchyma was also associated with the B cell immunophenotype of multi‐centric lymphoma.

Clinical Significance

Ultrasonography of the spleen and liver is specific but not sensitive in the detection of lymphomatous infiltration. A leopard‐spotted splenic parenchyma in dogs is highly specific for lymphomatous infiltration and in this population predicted a specific immunophenotype of multi‐centric lymphoma.
Opportunities and Limitations of Mobile Neuroimaging Technologies in Educational Neuroscience
Authors: Janssen Tieme W.P. , Grammer Jennie K. , Bleichner Martin G. , Bulgarelli Chiara , Davidesco Ido , Dikker Suzanne , Jasińska Kaja K. , Siugzdaite Roma , Vassena Eliana , Vatakis Argiro , Zion‐Golumbic Elana , van Atteveldt Nienke
Published: October 2021

As the field of educational neuroscience continues to grow, questions have emerged regarding the ecological validity and applicability of this research to educational practice. Recent advances in mobile neuroimaging technologies have made it possible to conduct neuroscientific studies directly in naturalistic learning environments. We propose that embedding mobile neuroimaging research in a cycle (Matusz, Dikker, Huth, & Perrodin, 2019), involving lab‐based, seminaturalistic, and fully naturalistic experiments, is well suited for addressing educational questions. With this review, we take a cautious approach, by discussing the valuable insights that can be gained from mobile neuroimaging technology, including electroencephalography and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy, as well as the challenges posed by bringing neuroscientific methods into the classroom. Research paradigms used alongside mobile neuroimaging technology vary considerably. To illustrate this point, studies are discussed with increasingly naturalistic designs. We conclude with several ethical considerations that should be taken into account in this unique area of research.
Water, sanitation and hygiene interventions and the prevention and treatment of childhood acute malnutrition: A systematic review
Authors: Patlán‐Hernández Alan R. , Stobaugh Heather C. , Cumming Oliver , Angioletti Andrea , Pantchova Danka , Lapègue Jean , Stern Stéphanie , N'Diaye Dieynaba S.
Published: October 2021

Undernutrition is more prevalent among children living in unsanitary environments with inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Despite good evidence for the effect of WASH on multiple infectious diseases, evidence for the effect of WASH interventions on childhood undernutrition is less well established, particularly for acute malnutrition. To assess the effectiveness of WASH interventions in preventing and treating acute childhood malnutrition, we performed electronic searches to identify relevant studies published between 1 January 2000 and 13 May 2019. We included studies assessing the effect of WASH on prevention and treatment of acute malnutrition in children under 5 years of age. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. We included 26 articles of 599 identified references with a total of 43,083 participants. Twenty‐five studies reported on the effect of WASH on prevention, and two studies reported its effect on treatment of acute malnutrition. Current evidence does not show consistent associations of WASH conditions and interventions with prevention of acute malnutrition or with the improvement of its treatment outcomes. Only two high‐quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that improved water quality during severe acute malnutrition treatment improved recovery outcomes but did not prevent relapse. Many of the interventions consisted of a package of WASH services, making impossible to attribute the effect to one specific component. This highlights the need for high‐quality, rigorous intervention studies assessing the effects of WASH interventions specifically designed to prevent acute malnutrition or improve its treatment.
The Fadeout of the Pax Americana in the Middle East
Authors: Freeman Chas W.
Published: October 2021

For two centuries, external great powers and their rivalries dominated and manipulated the Middle East. Eventually, the United States emerged as the main regulator of its affairs. Now the interests and interactions of countries within the region itself are the primary drivers of trends and events there. America's primacy in the Middle East is withering as it responds to domestic frustration with failed military interventions in West Asia, shifts its attention to East Asia, competes with the region in global oil and gas markets, and loses the confidence of the region's major actors in its willingness to protect them. A complex new geopolitical geometry is emerging among countries in a region no longer constrained by deference to external powers.
Fission yeast RNA‐binding proteins Puf2 and Puf4 are involved in repression of ferrireductase Frp1 expression in response to iron
Authors: Beaudoin Jude , Normant Vincent , Brault Ariane , Henry Darren J. , Bachand François , Massé Éric , Chua Gordon , Labbé Simon
Published: October 2021

This study identifies a post‐transcriptional mechanism of iron uptake regulation by Puf2 and Puf4 of the Pumilio and FBF (Puf) family of RNA‐binding proteins in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Cells expressing Puf2 and Puf4 stimulate decay of the frp1+ mRNA encoding a key enzyme of the reductive iron uptake pathway. Results consistently showed that frp1+ mRNA is stabilized in puf2Δ puf4Δ mutant cells under iron‐replete conditions. As a result, puf2Δ puf4Δ cells exhibit an increased sensitivity to iron accompanied by enhanced ferrireductase activity. A pool of GFP‐frp1+ 3′UTR RNAs was generated using a reporter gene containing the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of frp1+ that was under the control of a regulatable promoter. Results showed that Puf2 and Puf4 accelerate the destabilization of mRNAs containing the frp1+ 3′UTR which harbors two Pumilio response elements (PREs). Binding studies revealed that the PUM‐homology RNA‐binding domain of Puf2 and Puf4 expressed in Escherichia coli specifically interacts with PREs in the frp1+ 3′UTR. Using RNA immunoprecipitation in combination with reverse transcription qPCR assays, results showed that Puf2 and Puf4 interact preferentially with frp1+ mRNA under basal and iron‐replete conditions, thereby contributing to inhibit Frp1 production and protecting cells against toxic levels of iron.