bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A co‐twin–control analysis of adolescent and young adult drinking effects on learning and memory
Authors: Malone Stephen M. , Wilson Sylia , Bair Jessica L. , McGue Matt , Iacono William G.
Published: November 2020

Background and aims

Existing evidence for a link between alcohol use and memory impairments in adolescents and young adults is largely correlational. We aimed to determine whether associations between drinking and episodic memory were consistent with a causal effect of drinking or accounted for by familial factors confounding such associations. Because cannabis use is associated with a similar pattern of performance on episodic memory measures, we assessed whether any associations might be attributable to concurrent cannabis use.

Design, setting and participants

Observational study of individuals aged approximately 20–29 years, comprising two independent population‐based cohorts of twins. A co‐twin–control design permitted an estimate of alcohol exposure effects free of shared genetic and environmental confounding influences. Significant associations were followed‐up with twin‐difference analyses. Propensity scores derived from measures collected at age 11 were used to adjust for unshared confounders. Participants in both cohorts were assessed from the age of 11 (n = 1251) under the auspices of the Minnesota Center for Twin and Family Research.

Measurements

Regression analyses with cumulative alcohol use as the predictor of interest. Multiple measures of attention, learning and memory from a widely used episodic memory task constituted dependent variables.

Findings

Drinking was associated with poorer attention (P ≤ 0.003) and learning (P ≤ 0.008). Results were similar across the two cohorts. The within‐pair effect in twin‐difference analyses was significant only for measures of learning (P‐values ≤ 0.004). Results were not due to measured unshared confounders or cannabis use. Drinking in adolescence (to age 20) and early adulthood (between 20 and 29) exerted independent effects on learning.

Conclusions

There appears to be a robust and specific association between drinking and learning that can be reproduced across cohorts, is not easily accounted for by confounding factors or concurrent cannabis use and is consistent with a causal influence of drinking.
First‐time offenders for recreational ketamine use under a new penalty system in Taiwan: incidence, recidivism and mortality in national cohorts from 2009 to 2017
Authors: Pan Wen‐Hsuan , Wu Kevin Chien‐Chang , Chen Chi‐Ya , Chu Yu‐Roo , Wu Shang‐Chi , Jou Susyan , Lu Tzu‐Pin , Tung Yu‐Chi , Hsu Jui , Chen Wei J.
Published: November 2020

Background and aims

Ketamine has become a new recreational drug of choice among young people in parts of Asia. Using national databases in Taiwan, this study aimed to (1) examine the yearly trend in the ketamine offence rate over time; (2) estimate the 3‐year risk of drug‐related re‐offence and its correlates among the first‐time offenders; and (3) estimate the 3‐year standardized mortality ratio (SMR) among the first‐time offenders.

Design, Setting and Participants

Retrospective cohort studies of offenders for recreational ketamine use in a penalty system initiated in 2009. Offenders for recreational ketamine use were identified from the Administrative Penalty System for Schedule III/IV Substances database from 2009 to 2017, and the re‐offence rate and mortality among first‐time offenders were assessed via record‐linkage within the database as well as with both the criminal drug offence database and the national mortality database. The cohort from 2009 to 2016 (n = 39 178) was used for the recidivism analysis and the cohort from 2009 to 2013 (n = 25 357) was used for the 3‐year SMR analysis.

Measurements

Recidivism was estimated using survival analysis of the event as re‐arrest for using ketamine, more serious illicit drugs (Schedules I/II), or any illicit drugs (ketamine or Schedules I/II). SMRs were estimated for overall and cause‐specific death within 3 years after the first offence for ketamine use.

Findings

The age‐standardized rates for both prevalent (1.38 per 1000) and first‐time offenders (0.65 per 1000) peaked in 2013 and then decreased steadily. The 3‐year risk of re‐offence was 33.85% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 33.23–34.47%) for ketamine use and 39.52% (95% CI = 39.00–40.04%) for any illicit drug use. These first‐time offenders had an SMR of 4.9 (95% CI = 4.3–5.4) for overall mortality, 2.1 (95% CI = 1.6–2.7) for natural deaths and 7.6 (95% CI = 6.7–8.6) for unnatural deaths.

Conclusions

Recreational ketamine use in Taiwan appears to lead not only to high risk for drug‐related re‐offence but also to excess mortality.
Risk of neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular adverse events following treatment with varenicline and nicotine replacement therapy in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink: a case–cross‐over study
Authors: Thomas Kyla H. , Davies Neil M. , Taylor Amy E. , Taylor Gemma M. J. , Gunnell David , Martin Richard M. , Douglas Ian
Published: November 2020

Background and aims

Varenicline and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) are the most commonly used medications to quit smoking. Given their widespread use, monitoring adverse risks remains important. This study aimed to estimate the neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular risks associated with varenicline and NRT as used in routine UK care.

Design

Case–cross‐over study.

Setting

UK‐based electronic primary care records in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink from 2006 to 2015 linked to hospital and mortality data sets.

Participants

Adult smokers (n =282,429) observed during periods when exposed and not exposed to either varenicline or NRT.

Measurements

Main outcomes included suicide, self‐harm, myocardial infarction (MI), all‐cause death and cause‐specific death [MI, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)]. In primary analyses, conditional logistic regression was used to compare the chance of varenicline or NRT exposure during the risk period (90 days prior to the event) with the chance of exposure during an earlier single reference period (91–180 days prior to the event) or multiple 90‐day reference periods to increase statistical power.

Findings

In the primary analyses, findings were inconclusive for the associations between varenicline and the main outcomes using a single reference period, while NRT was associated with MI [odds ratio (OR) = 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–1.67]. Using multiple reference periods, varenicline was associated with an increased risk of self‐harm (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.12–1.56) and suicide (OR = 3.56, 95% CI = 1.32–9.60) but a reduction in all‐cause death (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.61–0.93). NRT was associated with MI (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.36–1.74), self‐harm (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.18–1.44) and deaths from MI (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.11–2.10), COPD (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.14–1.56) and all causes (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.18–1.40) when using multiple reference periods.

Conclusions

There appear to be positive associations between (1) nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and myocardial infarction, death and risk of self‐harm and (2) varenicline and increased risk of self‐harm and suicide, as well as a negative association between varenicline and all‐cause death. The associations may not be causal. They may reflect health changes at the time of smoking cessation (nicotine replacement therapy is prescribed for people with cardiac problems) or be associated with quit attempts (exposure to both medicines was associated with self‐harm).
Why do doctors work in rural areas in high‐income countries? A qualitative systematic review of recruitment and retention
Authors: Holloway Patrick , Bain‐Donohue Suzanne , Moore Malcolm
Published: November 2020

Objective

To identify and assess the drivers and barriers to recruiting and retaining doctors in rural communities of high‐income countries.

Design

A systematic review and thematic analysis.

Setting

Publications were sourced from medical and scientific databases online.

Participants

Qualitative, mixed‐methods and review studies from peer‐reviewed journals published since 2000 that discussed recruitment or retention of doctors to rural areas in high‐income countries.

Main outcome measures

Identification and assessment of themes in the literature pertaining to recruitment and retention of rural doctors. Recurrent themes were assessed for relevance and applicability to current rural shortages.

Results

A thematic analysis was completed on 41 papers assessed as in scope of the review. Papers were scrutinised for relevance to established rural recruitment and retention strategies. Key themes were rural background, education and training, personal and professional circumstances, and integration with the community.

Conclusion

While rural origin has long been promoted as the key factor for recruiting rural doctors, initiatives targeting only these individuals ignore a potentially larger cohort of future rural doctors. Rurally focused medical education and training need to encompass students and doctors from all backgrounds. The major barriers to rural recruitment are family‐unit considerations for partners and children, concerns over isolation and a poor perception of rural practice. Attracting doctors to practise rurally is only half the challenge however, and strategies to retain rural doctors need a greater focus on personal and professional support networks and community integration. Additional strategies are needed to retain international and bonded doctors restricted to rural areas.
Chemical characterization and radiocarbon dating of the rock art of Las Charcas caves, Cuba
Authors: Armitage R. A. , Arrazcaeta R. , Torres S. , Baker S. M. , Fraser D.
Published: November 2020

There has been much debate over the decades amongst Cuban archaeologists about what group or groups may have created the rock art in the karst caves of Cuba. The complexities of Cuba's history made dating rock paintings an attractive method for determining their origins. Samples were collected from three caves in Mayabeque province, collectively referred to as Las Charcas. Chemical analyses were carried out along with plasma–chemical oxidation and accelerator mass spectrometric radiocarbon dating. The paintings in two caves contained bitumen, resulting in anomalously old dates, whilst the other cave's amorphous carbon‐based paintings fit within a pre‐Columbian context.
Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of SBT‐020 in patients with early stage Huntington's disease, a 2‐part study
Authors: van Diemen Marcus P.J. , Hart Ellen P. , Abbruscato Anthony , Mead Liz , van Beelen Ilse , Bergheanu Sandrin C. , Hameeteman Pieter W. , Coppen Emma , Winder Jessica Y. , Moerland Matthijs , Kan Hermien , van der Grond Jeroen , Webb Andrew , Roos Raymund A.C. , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: November 2020

Aims

Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease with cognitive, motor and psychiatric symptoms. Toxic accumulation of misfolded mutant huntingtin protein induces mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to a bioenergetic insufficiency in neuronal and muscle cells. We evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of SBT‐020, a novel compound to improve mitochondrial function, in a 2‐part study in early stage HD patients.

Methods

Part 1 consisted of 7‐day multiple ascending dose study to select the highest tolerable dose for Part 2, a 28‐day multiple dose study. Mitochondrial function was measured in the visual cortex and calf muscle, using phosphorous magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and in circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Results

Treatment‐emergent adverse events were mild and more present in the SBT‐020 group. Injection site reactions occurred in 91% in Part 1 and 97% in Part 2. Mitochondrial function in calf muscle, peripheral blood mononuclear cells or visual cortex was not changed overall due to treatment with SBT‐020. In a posthoc analysis, patients with a higher degree of mitochondrial dysfunction (below the median [∆Ψm < 3412 and τPCr > 42.5 s]) showed more improvement than patients with a relatively lower level of mitochondrial dysfunction.

Conclusion

SBT‐020 was safe at all doses, but no significant differences in any of the pharmacodynamic measurements between the treatment groups and placebo group could be demonstrated. The data suggest that the better than expected mitochondrial function in our patient population at baseline might explain the lack of effect of SBT‐020.
Wnt8B, transcriptionally regulated by ZNF191, promotes cell proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma via Wnt signaling
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Wu Di , Cheng Hanghang , Chen Lei , Zhang Weidi , Zou Liping , Gao Qiongmei , Zhao Zhonghua , Chen Qi , Zeng Wenjiao , Zhang Zhigang , Jiang Wei , Huang Cheng , Liu Guoyuan
Published: November 2020

Dysregulation of wingless‐type (Wnt) signaling is implicated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Wnt family member 8B (Wnt8B), one of the canonical Wnt ligands, is implicated in oncogenesis. However, the role of Wnt8B in human HCCs and its transcriptional regulation mechanism are presently unknown . Here, we report that Wnt8B expression was frequently increased in HCCs and was significantly associated with poorer patient prognosis. Wnt8B knockdown suppresses HCC cell growth both in vitro and in vivo via inhibiting the canonical Wnt signaling. Zinc finger transcription factor 191 (ZNF191) can positively regulate Wnt8B mRNA and protein expression, and promoter luciferase assay indicated that ZNF191 can increase the transcription activity of the 2‐Kbps WNT8B promoter. Chromatin immunoprecipitation‐qPCR and electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that ZNF191 protein directly binds to the WNT8B promoter, and the binding sites are at nt‐1491(ATTAATT) and nt‐1178(ATTCATT). Moreover, Wnt8B contributes to the effect of ZNF191 on cell proliferation, and Wnt8B expression correlates positively with ZNF191 in human HCCs. Our findings suggested that Wnt8B, directly transcriptionally regulated by ZNF191, plays a pivotal role in HCC proliferation via the canonical Wnt pathway and may serve as a new prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for HCC patients.
Combining chemotherapy and autologous peptide‐pulsed dendritic cells provides survival benefit in stage IV melanoma patients
Authors: Eisendle Klaus , Weinlich Georg , Ebner Susanne , Forstner Markus , Reider Daniela , Zelle‐Rieser Claudia , Tripp Christoph H. , Fritsch Peter , Stoitzner Patrizia , Romani Nikolaus , Nguyen Van Anh
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

We examined retrospectively whether the combination of standard dacarbazine (DTIC) and/or fotemustine chemotherapy and autologous peptide‐loaded dendritic cell (DC) vaccination may improve survival of stage IV melanoma patients. Furthermore, a small cohort of long‐term survivors was studied in more detail.

Patients and methods

Between 1998 and 2008, 41 patients were vaccinated at least three times with DCs while receiving chemotherapy and compared to all other 168 patients in our database who only received chemotherapy (1993–2008).

Results

Median life expectancy of patients receiving additional DC‐vaccination was 18 months, compared to eleven months for patients under standard chemotherapy alone. In contrast to patients with other haplotypes, the HLA‐A1/A1 subset of DC‐treated patients showed significantly lower median survival (12 vs. 25 months). Autoantibodies were frequently detected in serum of both vaccinated and non‐vaccinated patients, and there was no correlation between titers, loss or appearance of autoantibodies and survival. Additionally, phenotyping of DCs and PBMCs also did not reveal any conspicuous correlation with survival.

Conclusions

Combining standard chemotherapy and DC vaccination appears superior to chemotherapy alone. The impact of HLA haplotypes on survival emphasizes the importance of a careful selection of patients with specific, well‐defined HLA haplotypes for future vaccination trials using peptide‐pulsed DCs, possibly combined with checkpoint inhibitors.
Selection and introgression facilitated the adaptation of Chinese native endangered cattle in extreme environments
Authors: Liu Xinfeng , Li Zhaohong , Yan Yubin , Li Ye , Wu Hui , Pei Jie , Yan Ping , Yang Ruolin , Guo Xian , Lan Xianyong
Published: November 2020

Although persistent efforts have identified and characterized a few candidate genes and related biological processes with potential functions in the adaptation of many species to extreme environments, few works have been conducted to determine the genomic basis of adaptation in endangered livestock breeds that have been living in extreme conditions for more than thousands of years. To fill this gap, we sequenced the whole genomes of nine individuals from three Chinese native endangered cattle breeds that are living in high‐altitude or arid environments. Phylogenetic and evolutionary history analyses of these three and other six breeds showed that the genetic structure of the cattle populations is primarily related to geographic location. Interestingly, we identified pervasive introgression from the yak to Zhangmu cattle (ZMC) that cover several genes (e.g., NOS2, EGLN1 and EPAS1) involved in the hypoxia response and previously identified as positive selection genes in other species, which suggested that the adaptive introgression from yak may have contributed to the adaptation of ZMC to high‐altitude environments. In addition, by contrasting the breeds in opposite living conditions, we revealed a set of candidate genes with various functions from hypoxia response, water metabolism, immune response and body shape change to embryo development and skeletal system development, etc., that may be related to high‐altitude or arid adaptation. Our research provides new insights into the recovery and adaptation of endangered native cattle and other species in extreme environments and valuable resources for future research on animal husbandry to cope with climate change.
Evolution of isoprene emission in Arecaceae (palms)
Authors: Li Mingai , Xu Jia , Lyu Fuling , Khomenko Iuliia , Biasioli Franco , Villani Mariacristina , Baldan Barbara , Varotto Claudio
Published: November 2020

Isoprene synthase (IspS) is the sole enzyme in plants responsible for the yearly emission in the atmosphere of thousands of tonnes of the natural hydrocarbon isoprene worldwide. Species of the monocotyledonous family Arecaceae (palms) are among the highest plant emitters, but to date no IspS gene from this family has been identified. Here, we screened with PTR‐ToF‐MS 18 genera of the Arecaceae for isoprene emission and found that the majority of the sampled species emits isoprene. Putative IspS genes from six different genera were sequenced and three of them were functionally characterized by heterologous overexpression in Arabidopsis thaliana, demonstrating that they encode functional IspS genes. Site‐directed mutagenesis and expression in Arabidopsis demonstrated the functional relevance of a novel IspS diagnostic tetrad from Arecaceae, whose most variable amino acids could not preserve catalytic function when substituted by a putatively dicotyledonous‐specific tetrad. In particular, mutation of threonine 479 likely impairs the open–closed transition of the enzyme by altering the network of hydrogen bonds between helices H1α, H, and I. These results shed new light on the evolution of IspS in monocots, suggesting that isoprene emission is an ancestral trait within the Arecaceae family. The identification of IspS from Arecaceae provides promising novel enzymes for the production of isoprene in heterologous systems and allows the screening and selection of commercially relevant palm varieties with lower environmental impact.
Computational approach for content‐based image retrieval of K‐similar images from brain MR image database
Authors: Sampathila Niranjana , Pavithra  , Martis Roshan Joy
Published: November 2020

Content‐based medical image retrieval (CBMIR) is a mechanism to handle a huge quantity of image data generated in various medical imaging modalities. In recent years, due to the evolution of computer vision and digital imaging modalities, a large number of medical images are generated. Consequently, the task of retrieving medical images from a large image database becomes more tedious due to variation in the size and shape of the images. Hence, it is necessary to design an appropriate system for medical image retrieval. In this paper a methodology for CBMIR using features of an image such as colour, shape, and texture is proposed to represent and retrieve the images from a large database that are relevant to a given query image. This methodology is evaluated for the application of retrieving the brain MRI images of different planes (coronal, sagittal, and transverse) from a dataset of normal and demented subjects. The features are determined in terms of Grey level co‐occurrence based Haralik's features and histogram based cumulative distribution function (CDF). The image retrieval mechanism is designed using the K‐Nearest Neighbour algorithm by finding the minimum distance between query and database images. The performance parameters such as precision and recall are calculated. The average accuracy of 95.5% are obtained. The results provided ensures the capability to use it as assistive framework for radiologists in radiology image retrieval and classification.
In conversation with Xin Lu
Authors: Howe Françoise S. , Lu Xin
Published: November 2020

Xin Lu is Professor of Cancer Biology at the University of Oxford, UK, and Director of the Oxford Branch of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Co‐director of the Cancer Research UK Oxford Centre, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre Multi‐Modal Cancer Therapies Theme Lead and Director of the Oxford Centre for Early Cancer Detection. She has a long‐standing interest in mechanisms of tumour suppression and cellular plasticity, centred on studies of p53 and the ASPP family of proteins (apoptosis‐stimulating protein of p53; ankyrin repeats, SH3 domain and proline‐rich sequence‐containing proteins). Her laboratory's discovery of ASPPs, regulators or ‘molecular switches’ of the apoptotic function of p53 led to key insights into the role of cell plasticity in cancer and other diseases, and these could pave the way to new diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Xin has received many awards and honours in recognition of her significant contributions to cancer biology, including being elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2020. Here, she outlines how her breakthrough discovery of ASPPs came about and its impact on the cancer field, as well as highlighting the importance of mentors including Min Wu, Birgit Lane and Sir David Lane in shaping her early career and helping her to navigate a new research world, having moved to the UK from China in the 80s.
The relationship of sleep duration and quality to energy expenditure and physical activity in children
Authors: Jindal Ishita , Puyau Maurice , Adolph Anne , Butte Nancy , Musaad Salma , Bacha Fida
Published: November 2020

Background

Shorter sleep duration has been linked to the risk for obesity in children. The pathways linking sleep duration and quality to the risk of obesity are unclear, particularly the effect of sleep on energetics.

Objective

We investigated the relationship between sleep duration, quality and timing in children, to the basal metabolic rate (BMR), total energy expenditure (TEE) and physical activity (PA).

Methods

Fifty nine children in two age‐groups (5‐11 and 12‐18 years) underwent evaluation of body composition (DXA), BMR in a room calorimeter, free‐living TEE by doubly labelled water method, sleep and PA (7‐day Actiheart monitor) during school break.

Results

Sleep duration contributed to the variance in BMR (β = 0.11, P = .009) after adjusting for age‐group, sex, lean and fat mass, but not to the variance in TEE. Late sleep timing was related to lower PA. In the younger age‐group, children who met recommended sleep duration on ≥50% of the 7 days had higher light PA (P = .03) and lower sedentary time (P = .009).

Conclusion

Suboptimal sleep is associated with lower BMR, lower PA, and higher sedentary behaviours in young children. Prospective studies are needed to confirm if insufficient sleep duration or late sleep timing contribute to obesity risk by increasing sedentary behaviours and decreasing BMR.
Predictors of bleeding in patients receiving direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Chua Geoh Soon , Pham Jonathan , Anpalahan Mahesan
Published: November 2020

Background

The predictors of clinically significant bleeding events (CSBE) associated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) are poorly characterised in the literature.

Aim

To determine the incidence and predictors of CSBE in patients receiving DOAC.

Methods

Patients who received DOAC during admission to a general medical unit over a 2‐year period were retrospectively studied. Following the index admission, patients were followed for 12 months or for the duration of treatment (if the latter was less than 12 months). The relevant data were obtained by review of medical records.

Results

A total of 203 patients was studied over a mean follow‐up period of 293 (±81) days. The incidence of CSBE was 13.7 (95% confidence interval (CI): 9.5–21.1) per 100 person‐years. Age ≥ 75 years (P = 0.01), concurrent use of antiplatelet medications (P = 0.02) and lower estimated creatinine clearance (CrCl) (P = 0.03) had a significant univariate association with CSBE. However, in the multivariate logistic regression, only concurrent use of antiplatelet medications remained significantly associated with CSBE (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.6; 95% CI: 1.4–9.6; P = 0.01). Concurrent use of antiplatelet medications was also independently associated with major bleeding events (MBE) (adjusted OR 4.9; 95% CI: 1.1–21.4; P = 0.04). Although 39 (19.2%) patients received antiplatelet medications, the indications for concurrent antiplatelet use complied with current guidelines in only 3 (7.7%) patients.

Conclusion

Caution should be exercised when prescribing antiplatelet medications with DOAC as this combination is a potential risk factor for both major and non‐major clinically significant bleeding events. In most patients, the concurrent use of antiplatelet medications was discordant with the current consensus guidelines.
Lay theories and ageist attitudes at work: Essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging, fixed mindsets, and cyclical perception of time are linked to ageist attitudes toward older workers
Authors: Hiu Shaun Kuan Wei , Rabinovich Anna
Published: November 2020

To resolve the problem of ageist attitudes in organizational contexts, the psychological processes that contribute to their endorsement must be investigated. We suggest that lay theories of aging (essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging, EBCA), fixed versus growth mindsets, and lay theories of time (LTT, perceptions of time as change versus. repetition) represent a set of beliefs linked to ageist attitudes toward older workers. We also propose that relationships between these beliefs and ageism are mediated by stereotypical perceptions of older workers. In a pilot study, we constructed a measure of ageist attitudes toward older workers (AATOW). In the main study, we surveyed 166 younger workers (18–30 years old, employed full‐time), measuring EBCA, mindsets, LTT, age‐related stereotypes, and AATOW. The results demonstrated that there were significant relationships between EBCA, fixed mindset, LTT, and ageist attitudes. The relationships between EBCA and ageism, and mindsets and ageism were mediated by perceptions of older workers as not adaptable, while the relationship between LTT and ageism was not mediated by age‐related stereotypes. Implications for organizational efforts to nurture an age‐inclusive intergenerational workforce are discussed.
Instructional mechanisms in immersive virtual reality serious games: Earthquake emergency training for children
Authors: Feng Zhenan , González Vicente A. , Mutch Carol , Amor Robert , Cabrera‐Guerrero Guillermo
Published: November 2020

Children are vulnerable in earthquakes, but they are also essential to foster earthquake‐resilient communities. It is critical to enhance the preparedness of children against earthquakes through effective education and training. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) and serious games (SGs) are innovative digital technologies that enable realistic and engaging training environments. However, little research has been made on the applications of IVR SGs for earthquake training targeting children. In order to fill this gap, this paper presents an IVR SG training system based on a problem‐based gaming framework. Three instructional mechanisms within the training system, namely prior instruction, immediate feedback, and post‐game assessment, were investigated to promote learning through effective reflection. A controlled experiment involving 125 secondary school students aged from 11 to 15 years old was undertaken, using leaflets as a traditional training approach for the control group and the IVR SG training system as the main intervention. Results revealed that the IVR SG training system with post‐game assessment was the most effective way to train children, with greater knowledge acquisition and self‐efficacy improvement observed. Possible improvements, such as increasing the time for reflection and differentiating the stimulation between positive and negative feedback, are suggested for further research.
Present scenario and future scope of food waste to biofuel production
Authors: Dhiman Sunny , Mukherjee Gunjan
Published: November 2020

Food waste is the outcome of different food processing practices that have not been reused and are disposed of as waste. Food wastes are rich in a wide variety of organic constituents including starches, proteins, oils, fats, phosphates, nutrients, amino acids, and natural acids. Food waste is a zero‐value and nonconsumable resource. In this context, the valorization of food waste to different sorts of biofuels, for example, biodiesel, bioethanol, biohydrogen, bio‐oil, biochar, and biomethane by employing well‐structured and efficient valorization technologies can be an attractive and viable approach to counter the current global energy crisis and in establishing a sustainable bioeconomy. This type of food waste management not only resolves the serious pollution problem but also helps to reduce the dependency of the energy sector on fossil fuels. This review discusses the characteristics of food waste, common strategies for food waste management, food waste as a feedstock, biofuels as a renewable energy source, valorization of food waste to various types of biofuels, microbes‐assisted valorization of food waste, biofuels and bioeconomy, and future scope and challenges in the valorization of food waste to biofuels.
Incidence and univariate models for lymphatic drainage disorders following management for cervical cancer
Authors: Cea García Jorge , Rodríguez Jiménez Inmaculada , Ríos‐Pena Laura , Márquez Mareaver Francisco , Rubio Rodríguez María del Carmen
Published: November 2020

Aim

To clarify the incidence of lymphatic drainage disorders (LLD) after treatment for cervical cancer (CC) and to establish univariate models for their occurrence.

Methods

A total of 263 eligible patients with CC were identified between 2010 and 2019. We conducted a case–control study and divided the study population into two subsamples of 12 and 251 CC survivors based on the presence/absence of LLD, respectively. The cumulative incidence was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Univariate models based on Pearson correlation coefficient were used to evaluate associations between explanatory variables and LLD.

Results

The cumulative incidence of LLD began at 3.3% after the 7‐month follow‐up, reaching a plateau of 21.2% between 130 and 250 months of follow‐up.

We detected correlation between LLD and number of removed para‐aortic lymph nodes (r = −0.39), number of pelvic lymphadenopathies (r = 0.16), pelvic lymphadenectomy (PL) (r = 0.16), age at diagnosis of CC (r = −0.1) and primary surgery (r = 0.1).

Conclusion

We observed a cumulative incidence of LLD of 21.2%, which is in accord with other retrospective studies. Number of removed para‐aortic lymph nodes, number of pelvic lymphadenopathies, PL, age at diagnosis of CC and primary surgery were the most influential clinical factors associated with the occurrence of LLD in CC survivors.
Fatherhood and Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Progression of Romantic Relationships
Authors: Parker Emily , Sassler Sharon , Tach Laura
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study examines the influence of fatherhood on the progression of men's romantic relationships.

Background

High levels of relationship flux have resulted in a partner market increasingly characterized by the presence of children, but little is known about how children influence the progression of men's romantic relationships. Children could reduce the likelihood of marriage and increase chances of cohabitation for single fathers in dating relationships, just as prior literature has found for single mothers. Given high levels of racial/ethnic assortative mating, and variation in the prevalence of single parenthood across racial/ethnic groups, the influence of prior children on men's relationships may differ by race/ethnicity as well.

Method

The authors use data from adult male respondents of the 2002–2015 cycles of the National Survey of Family Growth aged 18–45 regarding the most recent sexual relationship (n = 9,255).

Results

Results of propensity score weighted event‐history analyses show that fathers in sexual relationships transition more often and more rapidly into cohabitation than do childfree men, but this pattern varies by race/ethnicity. Children from prior relationships have a strong influence on the progression of non‐Hispanic White men's relationships, hastening cohabitation, and decreasing transitions to marriage, but prior children have little association with the progression of romantic relationships among Black or Hispanic men.

Conclusion

Although fatherhood shapes the progression of men's romantic relationships, the influence of fatherhood varies across racial/ethnic groups in the United States.
How COVID‐19 Informs Business Sustainability Research: It’s Time for a Systems Perspective
Authors: Bansal Pratima (Tima) , Grewatsch Sylvia , Sharma Garima
Published: November 2020

In this essay, we argue that by taking a systems lens, sustainability researchers can better understand the implications of COVID‐19 on business and society and prevent future pandemics. A systems lens asks management researchers to move from a firm‐level perspective to one that also considers the broader socioecological context. We argue that for business to prevent future pandemics and assure future prosperity, business must recognize the limits to growth, alternative temporalities that do not pit the short against the long term, the nestedness of local phenomena in global systems, and leverage points that can reduce entrenched systems of social inequalities.
Limitations of Using Cultured Algae to Study Cnidarian‐Algal Symbioses and Suggestions for Future Studies
Authors: Maruyama Shumpei , Weis Virginia M.
Published: November 2020

Much of our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying cnidarian‐algal symbiosis comes from studying the biological differences between the partners when they are engaged in symbiosis and when they are isolated from one another. When comparing the in hospite and ex hospite states in Symbiodiniaceae, the in hospite state is represented by algae sampled from hosts, and the ex hospite state is commonly represented by cultured algae. The use of cultured algae in this comparison may introduce nutrition as a confounding variable because, while hosts are kept in nutrient‐depleted conditions, culture media is nutrient rich and designed to facilitate algal growth. In this perspective, we reexamine how nutrition may be a confounding variable in studies that compare the biology of Symbiodiniaceae in hospite and in culture. We also suggest several innovations in experimental design to strengthen the comparison of the two lifestyles, including the adoption of nutritional controls, alternatives to culture for the representation of Symbiodiniaceae ex hospite, and the adoption of several proteomic approaches to find novel Symbiodiniaceae genes important for symbiosis.
Sex‐Specific Genes and their Expression in the Life History of the Red Alga Bostrychia moritziana (Ceramiales, Rhodomelaceae)
Authors: Shim Eunyoung , Zuccarello Giuseppe C. , Kim Gwang Hoon
Published: November 2020

Diverse sex determination mechanisms have been reported in eukaryotes, but little is known about the genetic pathways leading to sex determination in red algae. Sex‐specific genes that could be involved in sex determination and sexual differentiation were investigated in the red alga Bostrychia moritziana by analyzing the transcriptomes of various phases including males, females, and tetrasporophytes. Sex dominantly expressed genes which showed >10‐fold difference between sexes was isolated using comparative RNA‐seq analysis. We found 19 gene homologues, 10 from males, and nine from females, that were found only in one sex in genomic amplification using strains collected from five different localities. Most of the sex‐specific genes are involved in important cellular processes including chromosome segregation, nucleo‐cytoplasmic protein shuttling, or tRNA modification. Quantitative PCR analysis showed that some sex‐specific genes were differently regulated during critical events of sexual reproduction like fertilization and carposporophyte development. We could localize the expression of a male‐specific gene in spermatia before and after gamete binding using RNA in situ hybridization. Amino acid sequence identity between male and female homologues of importin alpha gene and PreQ(0) reductase were highly divergent (75% and 74%, respectively), suggesting that these divergent homologues are on non–recombining UV‐type chromosomes in their respective sexes. Another set of transcripts were found that were sex dominantly expressed, but not sex‐specific. Nineteen out of 39 sex dominantly expressed transcripts were annotated to transposable elements. Our results suggest that sexual differentiation in B. moritziana may be achieved by multi‐level regulation of cellular processes, both from genes present only in one sex and differential expression of shared genes.
Abundant synthesis of long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in Eutreptiella sp. (Euglenozoa) revealed by chromatographic and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Kuo Rita C. , Zhang Huan , Stuart James D. , Provatas Anthony A. , Hannick Linda , Lin Senjie
Published: November 2020

Algal lipids are important molecules to store energy in algae and transfer energy in the marine food chain, and are potential materials for high value nutraceuticals (e.g., omega‐3 fatty acids) or biofuel production. However, how lipid biosynthesis is regulated is not well understood in many species including Eutreptiella from the phylum of Euglenozoa. Here, we characterized the fatty acid (FA) profile of an Eutreptiella species isolated from Long Island Sound, USA, using gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) and investigated their biosynthesis pathways by transcriptome sequencing. We discovered 24 types of FAs including a relatively high proportion of long‐chain unsaturated FAs. The abundances of C16, C18, and saturated FAs decreased when phosphate in the culture medium was depleted. Among the 24 FAs, docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6∆4,7,10,13,16,19) was most abundant, suggesting that Eutreptiella sp. preferentially invests in the synthesis of long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PFAs). Further transcriptomic analysis revealed that Eutreptiella sp. likely synthesizes LC‐PFAs via ∆8 pathway and uses type I and II fatty acid synthases. Using RT–qPCR, we found that some of the lipid synthesis genes, such as β‐ketoacyl‐ACP reductase, fatty acid desaturase, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase, acyl carrier protein, ∆8 desaturase, and Acyl‐ACP thioesterase, were more actively expressed during light period, and two carbon fixation genes were up‐regulated in the high‐lipid illuminated cultures, suggesting a linkage between photosynthesis and lipid production. The lipid profile renders Eutreptiella sp. a nutritional prey and valuable source for nutraceuticals, and the biosynthesis pathway documented here will be useful for future research and applications.
Colorimetric detection of residual quaternary ammonium compounds on dry surfaces and prediction of antimicrobial activity using bromophenol blue
Authors: Burel C. , Direur G. , Rivas C. , Purevdorj-Gage L.
Published: November 2020

Controlling and monitoring the residual activity of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are critical for maintaining safe yet effective levels of these agents in the environment. This study investigates the utility of bromophenol blue (BPB) as a safe, rapid and user-friendly indicator to detect in situ residual QACs dried on hard, non-porous surfaces, as well a means to assess their antimicrobial efficacy. At pH 7, BPB has a purple colour which turns blue upon its complexation with QACs such as didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC). BPB itself has no antimicrobial properties up to 400 ppm. Within the range of 0–400 ppm, BPB colour change was tied to specific DDAC antimicrobial performances with a detection threshold of 100 ppm. BPB concentration and application volume could be adjusted such that a colour shift from purple to blue correlated with a set percent reduction (>99·9%) in test bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella aerogenes). The BPB solutions developed in this study yielded similar colour shifts on polycarbonate and stainless steel surfaces and did not cross-react with chemical ingredients commonly found in sanitizers and disinfectant products. Overall, this study suggests that BPB provides a simple solution to safely monitor the post-application level and biocidal activity of residual dried QACs on surfaces.
Impact flash evolution of CO2 ice, water ice, and frozen Martian and lunar regolith simulant targets
Authors: Tandy Jon D. , Price Mark C. , Wozniakiewicz Penny J. , Cole Mike J. , Alesbrook Luke S. , Avdellidou Chrysa
Published: November 2020

The wavelength dependence and temporal evolution of the hypervelocity impact self‐luminous plume (or “flash”) from CO2 ice, water ice, and frozen Martian and lunar regolith simulant targets have been investigated using the Kent two‐stage light‐gas gun. An array of 10 band‐pass filtered photodiodes and a digital camera monitored changes in the impact flash intensity during the different phases of the emitting ejecta. Early‐time emission spectra were also recorded to examine short‐lived chemical species within the ejecta. Analyses of the impact flash from the varied frozen targets show considerable differences in temporal behavior, with a strong wavelength dependence observed within monitored near‐UV to near‐IR spectral regions. Emission spectra showed molecular bands across the full spectral range observed, primarily due to AlO from the projectile, and with little or no contribution from vaporized metal oxides originating from frozen regolith simulant targets. Additional features within the impact flash decay profiles and emission spectra indicate an inhomogeneity in the impact ejecta composition. A strong correlation between the density of water ice‐containing targets and the impact flash rate of decay was shown for profiles uninfluenced by significant atomic/molecular emission, although the applicability to other target materials is currently unknown. Changes in impact speed resulted in considerable differences in the temporal evolution of the impact flash, with additional variations observed between recorded spectral regions. A strong correlation between the impact speed and the emission decay rate was also shown for CO2 ice targets. These results may have important implications for future analyses of impact flashes both on the lunar/Martian surface and on other frozen bodies within the solar system.
Mandibular orthognathic surgery does not alter temporomandibular joint symptoms – A single centre prospective study
Authors: Sandbakk Frank‐Jakob , Schilbred Eriksen Elisabeth , Moen Ketil , Løes Sigbjørn , Pedersen Torbjørn Ø.
Published: November 2020

Aim

Mandibular orthognathic surgery has been considered a risk factor for developing temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). A prospective follow‐up study was initiated to examine the correlation between two surgical techniques for mandibular advancement and setback on mandibular range of movement and temporomandibular joint symptoms.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐four patients who underwent mandibular orthognathic surgery were included. Twenty patients were operated with the intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO) technique and subsequent rigid maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) for 6 weeks; 14 were operated with the bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) with internal osteosynthesis. The patients completed a questionnaire regarding subjective symptoms and were examined 1 day before, and 1 year after surgery. Evaluations of tenderness upon muscular and articular palpation, assessment of mandibular mobility and calculation of the Helkimo index were performed.

Results

Mean maximum mouth opening was reduced one year after surgery for both experimental groups. The BSSO‐group also experienced reduced laterotrusive and protrusive movements. No statistically significant differences within or between the groups were found for the Helkimo clinical dysfunction score. Both groups reported no differences in TMD‐related symptoms before and after surgery, and no differences were found between the groups.

Conclusions

Maximum mandibular movement was slightly reduced for both surgical techniques. Assisted mouth opening, laterotrusive and protrusive mandibular movements were reduced after BSSO, and maximum mouth opening was reduced after IVRO. However, the differences were small and both groups were well within the normal range. None of the groups experienced changes in TMD‐related symptoms.
Keeping It Simple: Rethinking Abilities and Moral Responsibility
Authors: Metz Joseph
Published: November 2020

Moral responsibility requires that we are in control of what we do. Many contemporary accounts of responsibility cash out this control in terms of abilities and hold that the relevant abilities are strong abilities, like general abilities. This paper raises a problem for strong abilities views: an agent can plausibly be morally responsible for an action or omission, despite lacking any strong abilities to do the relevant thing. It then offers a way forward for ability‐based views, arguing that very weak abilities can form the basis of moral responsibility for both actions and omissions.
On Cynicism and Citizenship: The Place of Negative Affects in US Antihighway Activism
Authors: Vine Michael
Published: November 2020

In Tampa, Florida, the threat of material destruction and social dislocation associated with planned highway expansion has ignited local resistance, which, in turn, brings together a loose grouping of social and political actors. Through a shared commitment to cynicism, the members of this socioeconomically diverse array of antihighway activists join one another in making claims on the state, even as they doubt these claims will ever be heeded. Cynicism, in this context, acts as an affective boundary object that enables actors to negotiate the moments of intrasubjective and intersubjective incoherence that inevitably arise in the course of private and public life. Attending to the citizen effects of cynical affects invites a reformulation of the place of negative feelings within the politics of the city, and social life more broadly.