bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract PR14: Sub-nucleosomal fragmentation in urine cell-free DNA
Authors: Markus Havell , Zhao Jun , Contente-Cuomo Tania , Raupach Elizabeth , Odenheimer-Bergman Ahuva , Connor Sydney , McDonald Bradon , Hutchins Elizabeth , McGilvrey Marissa , de la Maza Michelina C. , Van Jensen Kendall Van Keuren-Jensen , Pirrotte Patrick Pirrotte , Goel Ajay , Becerra Carlos , Von Hoff Daniel D. , Celinski Scott , Hingorani Pooja , Murtaza Muhammed
Published: June 2020

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in plasma has been shown to be a promising analyte for noninvasive diagnostics. The collection of blood plasma requires venipuncture, and plasma volume obtainable at a single point is limited. In contrast, cfDNA in urine can be collected noninvasively, with minimal assistance and in larger volumes. However, so far there has been limited success in diagnostic development using urine cfDNA as urine cfDNA is highly fragmented, and whether the characteristics of these fragments reflect underlying genomic architecture is unknown. Here, we perform a comprehensive characterization of fragmentation patterns in urine cfDNA using high-depth whole-genome sequencing from 30 healthy volunteers. We show the distribution of fragment sizes and genome-wide distribution of urine cfDNA fragments are consistent with transient protection from complete degradation by stable intermediates of nucleosome disassembly. Genome-wide nucleosome occupancy and fragment sizes in urine cfDNA are informative of the cell of origin and renal epithelial cells are among the highest contributors in urine. Based on a reference nucleosome map for urine cfDNA positioning, we developed a computational method to measure the fraction of urine cfDNA fragments with aberrant ends at unexpected genomic loci. We observe a higher fraction of fragments with aberrant ends in pediatric and adult cancer patients, distinguishing cancer samples with an area under the curve of 0.89. Our results demonstrate genomic architecture is preserved to an unexpected degree in urine cfDNA and are proof of principle that genome-wide fragmentation analysis of urine cfDNA can enable cancer diagnostics.

This abstract is also being presented as Poster B12.

Citation Format: Havell Markus, Jun Zhao, Tania Contente-Cuomo, Elizabeth Raupach, Ahuva Odenheimer-Bergman, Sydney Connor, Bradon McDonald, Elizabeth Hutchins, Marissa McGilvrey, Michelina C. de la Maza, Kendall Van Keuren-Jensen Van Jensen, Patrick Pirrotte Pirrotte, Ajay Goel, Carlos Becerra, Daniel D. Von Hoff, Scott Celinski, Pooja Hingorani, Muhammed Murtaza. Sub-nucleosomal fragmentation in urine cell-free DNA [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Liquid Biopsies; Jan 13-16, 2020; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2020;26(11_Suppl):Abstract nr PR14.
Dermatofluoroscopy Is Also for Redheads a Sensitive Method of Early Melanoma Detection
Authors: Leupold Dieter , Szyc Lukasz , Stankovic Goran , Hofmann Maja , Scholz Matthias , Forschner Andrea
Published: June 2020

Background: Caucasians with red hair and fair skin have a remarkably increased risk of malignant melanoma compared to non-redhead Caucasians. Objectives: With the aim of a reliable melanoma diagnosis in redheads, the application of dermatofluoroscopy was analyzed in 16 patients with red hair. Most of them had been included in a clinical dermatofluoroscopy study for patients with the suspicion of melanoma. We examined whether the 25 lesions of the redheads showed the same characteristic melanin fluorescence spectra for dysplastic nevi and melanomas as those of non-redhead Caucasians or whether there was a different fluorescence pattern. This is important in view of the known significantly altered ratio of eumelanin to pheomelanin in the skin of redheads. Methods: More than 8,000 spatially resolved fluorescence spectra of 25 pigmented lesions were measured and analysed. The spectra were excited by the stepwise absorption of two 800-nm photons (principle of dermatofluoroscopy). Furthermore, the fluorescence spectra of eumelanin and pheomelanin in hair samples were determined in the same way. Results: The evaluation revealed that the melanin fluorescence spectra of dysplastic nevi and melanomas of redheads have the same spectral characteristics as those of non-redhead Caucasians. An accompanying result is that dermatofluoroscopy shows identical fluorescence spectra for eumelanin and pheomelanin. Conclusions: Dermatofluoroscopy proves to be a reliable diagnostic method also for redheads. Our results also explain our recent finding that there is a uniform fluorescence spectroscopic fingerprint for melanomas of all subtypes, which is of particular interest for hypomelanotic and apparently amelanotic melanomas containing pheomelanin.
Efficacy and Moderators of Internet-Based Interventions in Adults with Subthreshold Depression: An Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Reins Jo Annika , Buntrock Claudia , Zimmermann Johannes , Grund Simon , Harrer Mathias , Lehr Dirk , Baumeister Harald , Weisel Kiona , Domhardt Matthias , Imamura Kotaro , Kawakami Norito , Spek Viola , Nobis Stephanie , Snoek Frank , Cuijpers Pim , Klein Jan Philipp , Moritz Steffen , Ebert David Daniel
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Evidence on effects of Internet-based interventions to treat subthreshold depression (sD) and prevent the onset of major depression (MDD) is inconsistent. Objective: We conducted an individual participant data meta-analysis to determine differences between intervention and control groups (IG, CG) in depressive symptom severity (DSS), treatment response, close to symptom-free status, symptom deterioration and MDD onset as well as moderators of intervention outcomes. Methods: Randomized controlled trials were identified through systematic searches via PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase and Cochrane Library. Multilevel regression analyses were used to examine efficacy and moderators. Results: Seven trials (2,186 participants) were included. The IG was superior in DSS at all measurement points (posttreatment: 6–12 weeks; Hedges’ g = 0.39 [95% CI: 0.25–0.53]; follow-up 1: 3–6 months; g = 0.30 [95% CI: 0.15–0.45]; follow-up 2: 12 months, g = 0.27 [95% CI: 0.07–0.47], compared with the CG. Significantly more participants in the IG than in the CG reached response and close to symptom-free status at all measurement points. A significant difference in symptom deterioration between the groups was found at the posttreatment assessment and follow-up 2. Incidence rates for MDD onset within 12 months were lower in the IG (19%) than in the CG (26%). Higher initial DSS and older age were identified as moderators of intervention effect on DSS. Conclusions: Our findings provide evidence for Internet-based interventions to be a suitable low-threshold intervention to treat individuals with sD and to reduce the incidence of MDD. This might be particularly true for older people with a substantial symptom burden.
Truncated RUNX1 Generated by the Fusion of RUNX1 to Antisense GRIK2 via a Cryptic Chromosome Translocation Enhances Sensitivity to Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor
Authors: Abe Akihiro , Yamamoto Yukiya , Katsumi Akira , Yamamoto Hideyuki , Okamoto Akinao , Inaguma Yoko , Iriyama Chisako , Tokuda Masutaka , Okamoto Masataka , Emi Nobuhiko , Tomita Akihiro
Published: June 2020

Fusions of the Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) with different partner genes have been associated with various hematological disorders. Interestingly, the C-terminally truncated form of RUNX1 and RUNX1 fusion proteins are similarly considered important contributors to leukemogenesis. Here, we describe a 59-year-old male patient who was initially diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, inv(16)(p13;q22)/CBFB-MYH11 (FAB classification M4Eo). He achieved complete remission and negative CBFB-MYH11 status with daunorubicin/cytarabine combination chemotherapy but relapsed 3 years later. Cytogenetic analysis of relapsed leukemia cells revealed CBFB-MYH11 negativity and complex chromosomal abnormalities without inv(16)(p13;q22). RNA-seq identified the glutamate receptor, ionotropic, kinase 2 (GRIK2) gene on 6q16 as a novel fusion partner for RUNX1 in this case. Specifically, the fusion of RUNX1 to the GRIK2 antisense strand (RUNX1-GRIK2as) generated multiple missplicing transcripts. Because extremely low levels of wild-type GRIK2 were detected in leukemia cells, RUNX1-GRIK2as was thought to drive the pathogenesis associated with the RUNX1-GRIK2 fusion. The truncated RUNX1 generated from RUNX1-GRIK2as induced the expression of the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) receptor on 32D myeloid leukemia cells and enhanced proliferation in response to G-CSF. In summary, the RUNX1-GRIK2as fusion emphasizes the importance of aberrantly truncated RUNX1 in leukemogenesis.
In silico Analysis of the Immunological Landscape of Hippocampi in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Batchu Sai
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Accumulating evidence suggests a relationship between neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study sought to investigate the immunological composition of hippocampi in patients afflicted with AD. Methods: CIBERSORTx RNA deconvolution was applied on gene expression data developed from hippocampi of 38 AD patients and 17 controls to infer the relative proportions of 22 subsets of immune cells. Results: AD-afflicted hippocampi were found to have greater relative abundances of M2 macrophages and CD8 T cells. AD-afflicted hippocampi were also composed of significantly more active dendritic cells and significantly fewer resting dendritic cells than control samples. Conclusion: AD-afflicted hippocampi present with a distinct immune signature and dendritic cells may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of AD in this brain component.
Large Extracellular Vesicle-Associated Rap1 Accumulates in Atherosclerotic Plaques, Correlates With Vascular Risks and Is Involved in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Perdomo Liliana , Vidal-Gómez Xavier , Soleti Raffaella , Vergori Luisa , Duluc Lucie , Chwastyniak Maggy , Bisserier Malik , Le Lay Soazig , Villard Alexandre , Simard Gilles , Meilhac Olivier , Lezoualc’h Frank , Khantalin Ilya , Veerapen Reuben , Dubois Séverine , Boursier Jérôme , Henni Samir , Gagnadoux Frédéric , Pinet Florence , Andriantsitohaina Ramaroson , Martínez M. Carmen ,   on behalf of Metabol study Group
Published: June 2020

Rationale:

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of interrelated risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. Circulating levels of large extracellular vesicles (lEVs), submicrometer-sized vesicles released from plasma membrane, from MetS patients were shown to induce endothelial dysfunction, but their role in early stage of atherosclerosis and on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) remain to be fully elucidated.

Objective:

To determine the mechanisms by which lEVs lead to the progression of atherosclerosis in the setting of MetS.

Methods and Results:

Proteomic analysis revealed that the small GTPase, Rap1 was overexpressed in lEVs from MetS patients compared with those from non-MetS subjects. Rap1 was in GTP-associated active state in both types of lEVs, and Rap1-lEVs levels correlated with increased cardiovascular risks, including stenosis. MetS-lEVs, but not non-MetS-lEVs, increased Rap1-dependent endothelial cell permeability. MetS-lEVs significantly promoted migration and proliferation of human aortic SMC and increased expression of proinflammatory molecules and activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) 5/p38 pathways. Neutralization of Rap1 by specific antibody or pharmacological inhibition of Rap1 completely prevented the effects of lEVs from MetS patients. High-fat diet-fed ApoE
−/−
mice displayed an increased expression of Rap1 both in aortas and circulating lEVs. lEVs accumulated in plaque atherosclerotic lesions depending on the progression of atherosclerosis. lEVs from high-fat diet-fed ApoE
−/−
mice, but not those from mice fed with a standard diet, enhanced SMC proliferation. Human atherosclerotic lesions were enriched in lEVs expressing Rap1.

Conclusions:

These data demonstrate that Rap1 carried by MetS-lEVs participates in the enhanced SMC proliferation, migration, proinflammatory profile, and activation of ERK5/p38 pathways leading to vascular inflammation and remodeling, and atherosclerosis. These results highlight that Rap1 carried by MetS-lEVs may be a novel determinant of diagnostic value for cardiometabolic risk factors and suggest Rap1 as a promising therapeutic target against the development of atherosclerosis.

Graphical Abstract:

A graphical abstract is available for this article.
Comparative Safety and Effectiveness of Oral Anticoagulants in Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Van Ganse Eric , Danchin Nicolas , Mahé Isabelle , Hanon Olivier , Jacoud Flore , Nolin Maëva , Dalon Faustine , Lefevre Cinira , Cotté François-Emery , Gollety Sabrina , Falissard Bruno , Belhassen Manon , Steg Ph. Gabriel
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose:

The effects of direct oral anticoagulants in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation should be assessed in actual conditions of use. France has near-universal healthcare coverage with a unified healthcare information system, allowing large population-based analyses. NAXOS (Evaluation of Apixaban in Stroke and Systemic Embolism Prevention in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation) aimed to compare the safety, effectiveness, and mortality of apixaban with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), rivaroxaban, and dabigatran, in oral anticoagulant-naive patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Methods:

This was an observational study using French National Health System claims data and including all adults with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who initiated oral anticoagulant between 2014 and 2016. Outcomes of interest were major bleeding events leading to hospitalization (safety), stroke and systemic thromboembolic events (effectiveness), and all-cause mortality. Four approaches were used for comparative analyses: matching on propensity score (PS; 1:n); as a sensitivity analysis, matching on high-dimensional PS; adjustment on PS; and adjustment on known confounders. For each outcome, cumulative incidence rates accounting for competing risks of death were estimated.

Results:

Overall, 321 501 patients were analyzed, of whom 35.0%, 27.2%, 31.1%, and 6.6% initiated VKAs, apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran, respectively. Apixaban was associated with a lower PS–matched risk of major bleeding compared with VKAs (hazard ratio [HR], 0.43 [95% CI, 0.40–0.46]) and rivaroxaban (HR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.63–0.72]), but not dabigatran (HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.81–1.08]). Apixaban was associated with a lower risk of stroke and systemic thromboembolic event compared with VKAs (HR, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.56–0.65]), but not rivaroxaban (HR, 1.05 [95% CI, 0.97–1.15]) or dabigatran (HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.78–1.11]). All-cause mortality was lower with apixaban than with VKAs, but not lower than with rivaroxaban or dabigatran.

Conclusions:

Apixaban was associated with superior safety, effectiveness, and lower mortality than VKAs; with superior safety than rivaroxaban and similar safety to dabigatran; and with similar effectiveness when compared with rivaroxaban or dabigatran. These observational data suggest potentially important differences in outcomes between direct oral anticoagulants, which should be explored in randomized trials.
Salinity effects on egg production, hatching, and survival of Eurytemora affinis (Copepoda, Calanoida)
Authors: Kuismanen Lauri , Forsblom Louise , Engström-Öst Jonna , Båmstedt Ulf , Glippa Olivier
Published: June 2020

Salinity is an important biodiversity regulating factor in the Baltic Sea, forming a physiological dispersal barrier for species. The salinity in the Baltic Sea has been predicted to decline due to increased precipitation and fewer saline water inflows from the ocean. This causes stress to species already living on the edge of their tolerances and can alter species compositions and interactions in ecosystems. Calanoid copepod resting eggs, originating from a known egg bank on the seabed in the western Gulf of Finland, were incubated in the laboratory. We monitored the hatching of the calanoid copepods Acartia sp. and Eurytemora affinis, as well as the survival to maturity of hatched Eurytemora affinis nauplii in salinities ranging from 0 to 25. Further, we also investigated salinity-related effects on body size and egg production. Based on the results of our generalized linear mixed model, peak hatching occurred within the salinity range 5-20 (6.3 at the study site). Body size was not affected by salinity and most eggs were produced in salinities of 5, 7.5 and 15. The results suggest that E. affinis lives on the edge of an optimal salinity and that a decline of salinity could affect the fitness of the local populations of the species.
Rediscovery and new combination of Serpocaulon demissum (Polypodiaceae), an endangered endemic species to the Brazilian inselbergs

Authors: SANÍN DAVID , SALINO ALEXANDRE
Published: June 2020

Serpocaulon demissum is herein proposed as a new combination based on the study of the type specimens and protologue of Goniophlebium demissum, as well as the comparison with its sympatric and morphologically similar species, S. catharinae and S. vacillans, two widespread species from the Atlantic Forest. Serpocaulon demissum is similar to these species by the presence of patent rhizomes scales and pinnatisect laminae, but differs from them by its thick amylaceous rhizomes, larger rhizome scales, and spores without folded perine. This taxon represents an endemic species from the Brazilian inselbergs. A re-description that includes a lectotype designation, line drawings, SEM pictures of the spores, pictures of the plant in the field, information of the novel habitat and rhizome stores, distribution map, and the conservation status of the species is presented.
Use of early word-reading fluency measures to predict outcomes on the Phonics Screening Check
Authors: Bell Nicola , Farrell-Whelan Max , Wheldall Kevin
Published: June 2020

Teachers in England and South Australia annually administer the Phonics Screening Check (PSC) to Year 1 students, with the purpose of identifying struggling readers. Students who do not meet the score threshold have not met the expected standard of word-decoding ability, meaning further support may be warranted. We sought to quantify the extent to which other early reading measures, such as the Wheldall Assessment of Reading Nonwords (WARN) and Wheldall Assessment of Reading Lists (WARL), predicted students’ likelihood of not meeting PSC expected standards. Predicting PSC outcomes, and thereby identifying struggling readers at the start of Year 1, has important implications for possible intervention strategies. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analyses were conducted to examine the longitudinal relationships between real-word and pseudoword predictors as measured by the WARL and WARN and PSC pass/fail outcomes. Students who scored lower on predictors were less likely to meet the PSC expected standards. Results indicate that the WARL and WARN could be used to identify students who will not meet PSC expected standards, facilitating earlier intervention where it is most critically required.
Modern Slavery in Business: The Sad and Sorry State of a Non-Field
Authors: Caruana Robert , Crane Andrew , Gold Stefan , LeBaron Genevieve
Published: June 2020

“Modern slavery,” a term used to describe severe forms of labor exploitation, is beginning to spark growing interest within business and society research. As a novel phenomenon, it offers potential for innovative theoretical and empirical pathways to a range of business and management research questions. And yet, development into what we might call a “field” of modern slavery research in business and management remains significantly, and disappointingly, underdeveloped. To explore this, we elaborate on the developments to date, the potential drawbacks, and the possible future deviations that might evolve within six subdisciplinary areas of business and management. We also examine the value that nonmanagement disciplines can bring to research on modern slavery and business, examining the connections, critiques, and catalysts evident in research from political science, law, and history. These, we suggest, offer significant potential for building toward a more substantial subfield of research.
Occupational Therapy Roles in an Indigenous Context: An Integrative Review
Authors: White Tara , Beagan Brenda L.
Published: June 2020

Background.

Indigenous peoples experience health inequities linked in part to lack of access to culturally-relevant health care. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) calls on all health professionals, including occupational therapists, to reduce health inequities through improved work with Indigenous communities.

Purpose.

This integrative review of the literature explores how occupational therapists can improve their work with Indigenous peoples.

Key issues.

Communication and building relationships are central to effective work with Indigenous communities, along with reciprocity regarding knowledge exchange. Issues surrounding service provision are a significant concern, yet improvements are unlikely to be effective unless therapists can critically examine the (mainstream) Western cultural assumptions that infuse the profession and their own practices.

Implications.

Though nascent, there are identified directions for occupational therapists to meet the TRC’s calls for more competent health care. Researchers should explore best ways for therapists to critically interrogate taken-for-granted professional assumptions mired in Western colonialism.
Shifting senses of solidarity and belonging in the internal migration pathways of citizens in ger areas in Ulaanbaatar: A social work perspective
Authors: Terbish Bayartsetseg , Lietaert Ine , Roets Griet
Published: June 2020

Mongolia has witnessed an ongoing internal rural–urban migration and urbanization process in recent decades, resulting in families settling informally in suburban ‘ ger’ areas and in areas with concentrations of social and environmental problems in the city of Ulaanbaatar. In social policy and social work practice in Mongolia, there is a critical lack of understanding and information regarding the experience of ger residents in shaping their lives. This article explores and examines evolving meanings and mechanisms of solidarity and senses of belonging in ger residents’ internal migration pathways. It aims to contribute to a deeper understanding that may assist social work practice and policy to embrace ger residents’ strengths and capability to aspire.
Community work, love and the indigenous worldview of buen vivir in Peru
Authors: Godden Naomi Joy
Published: June 2020

The Latin American indigenous knowledge paradigm of buen vivir (‘living well’) encapsulates an equilibrium of rights of people and nature, with a ‘solidarity economy’ emphasising equities, equality and freedoms, social justice and ecological justice. In participatory research in Peru, community workers developed a love-based framework of practice that reflects features of buen vivir. Participants suggest love is values-based feeling and action aiming for a world of peace, happiness and prosperity by transforming social conditions for a system of equality through participatory and democratic processes. The findings enhance developmental social work and buen vivir literature with a localised, relationship-oriented practice approach.
Numerical analysis of cracked aluminum plate repaired with multi-scale reinforcement composite patches
Authors: Yousefi A , Mosavi Mashhadi M , Safarabadi M
Published: June 2020

In this study, numerical modeling is used to investigate the performance of a single-sided composite patch with different scale fillers, as reinforcement of a cracked aluminum plate under static tension. The main concerns of previous studies are about the geometry of patches, composite layups, and failure of adhesive. In this research, the effect of patch properties such as size and fiber volume fraction, the thickness of patch, and thickness of adhesive on the overall performance of the cracked aluminum plate are investigated numerically. Indeed, first, a 3 D representative volume element (RVE) is adopted to calculate the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube (CNT)/epoxy and carbon fiber (CF)/epoxy composite patch at each specified volume fraction for investigating the effect of patch properties on the performance of a single-sided patch for crack repairing. In this regard, the cohesive zone model is adopted to analyze the debonding between the epoxy matrix and reinforcement to characterize the mechanical properties of composite patches. Finally, a linear 3 D finite element analysis is performed to calculate the stress intensity factor (SIF) for cracked aluminum plate repaired by a single-sided composite patch at each specified reinforcement volume fraction for different thickness of patch and different thickness of adhesive. The results demonstrated that the stress intensity factor highly depends on the patch properties (patch stiffness) in addition to patch thickness and adhesive thickness.
Physical and mechanical performance of bentonite and barite loaded low density polyethylene composites: Influence of surface silanization of minerals
Authors: Elkawash Hesham , Tirkes Seha , Hacioglu Firat , Tayfun Umit
Published: June 2020

In this study, two kinds of mineral fillers, bentonite (BNT) and barite (BRT), were incorporated into low density polyethylene (LDPE) by extrusion process. Silane treatment was applied to BRT and BNT surfaces in order to increase their compatibility with LDPE matrix. Surface characteristics of fillers were examined by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). LDPE-based composites were prepared at a constant concentration of 10%wt for each additives. Test samples were shaped by injection molding process. Mechanical, thermo-mechanical, water repellency, melt-flow and morphological characterizations of LDPE and its composites were performed by tensile and impact tests, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), water absorption test, melt flow index (MFI) measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique, respectively. Test results showed that surface treatments led to increase for final properties of composites since they promoted to stronger adhesion between minerals and LDPE matrix compared to untreated ones. Tensile and impact strength values, storage modulus and glass transition temperature of LDPE were improved by inclusion of silane treated minerals. BRT and BNT additions caused no remarkable changes with regard to MFI of LDPE. Additionally, silane modified mineral filled composites exhibited remarkable water resistance behavior. According to SEM analysis of composites, silane treated BNT and BRT containing samples displayed homogeneous dispersions into LDPE phase whereas debondings were observed for untreated BNT and BRT filled composites due to their weak adhesion to polymer matrix.
Three Different Measures of Graduates’ Instructional Readiness and the Features of Preservice Preparation That Predict Them
Authors: Ronfeldt Matthew , Matsko Kavita Kapadia , Greene Nolan Hillary , Reininger Michelle
Published: June 2020

This article extends prior research seeking to identify preparation features related to better workforce outcomes. To our knowledge, it is the first to link many dimensions of preparation to graduates’ first-year observation ratings. It follows 305 preservice teachers (PSTs) who student taught in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) in 2014–2015 and were subsequently hired in CPS in 2015–2016. PSTs received stronger observation ratings when their CTs had stronger observation ratings themselves, their CTs reported providing stronger coaching in specific areas, they gained employment in their field placement schools, and they student taught in self-contained elementary classrooms. Finally, we tested whether these same preparation features were associated with two other outcomes—(a) how well prepared PSTs felt after student-teaching and (b) how well prepared their CTs felt their PSTs were—and found they were not. We discuss implications for using workforce and survey-based outcomes to identify promising forms of preparation.
Japanese Perceptual Epenthesis is Modulated by Transitional Probability
Authors: Kilpatrick Alexander , Kawahara Shigeto , Bundgaard-Nielsen Rikke , Baker Brett , Fletcher Janet
Published: June 2020

Perceptual epenthesis is the perception of illusory vowels in consonantal sequences that violate native phonotactics. The consensus has been that each language has a single, predictable candidate for perceptual epenthesis, that vowel which is most minimal (i.e., shortest and/or quietest). However, recent studies have shown that alternate epenthetic vowels can be perceived when the perceptual epenthesis of the minimal vowel would violate native co-occurrence restrictions. We propose a potential explanation for these observed patterns: speech perception, and thus also vowel perceptual epenthesis, is modulated by transitional probability whereby epenthetic vowels must conform to the language specific expectations of the listener. To test this explanation, we present two experiments examining perceptual epenthesis of two Japanese vowels—/u/ and /i/—against their transitional probability in CV sequences. In Experiment 1, Japanese listeners assigned VCCV tokens to VCuCV and VCiCV categories. In Experiment 2, participants discriminated VCCV tokens from VCuCV and VCiCV tokens. The results show that sequences where /i/ is transitionally probable are more likely to elicit /i/ perceptual epenthesis.
Of dots and levels: a case of partial subacute combined degeneration
Authors: Garg Divyani , George Jerry A , Dhamija Rajinder K
Published: June 2020

Subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord is a typical clinical syndrome due to vitamin B12 deficiency, characterised by the involvement of the posterior column and corticospinal tracts. Occasionally, it may present with atypical features such as a sensory level and Lhermitte's sign, both traditionally considered to be a feature of compressive myelopathy. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging strongly augments the diagnosis by exhibiting changes in the posterior column in the form of a ‘dot’. We describe such a patient who responded to therapy.
A New Integrative Vision: China’s Belt-Road Initiative and Its Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Authors: Huang Philip C. C.
Published: June 2020

For nearly two centuries, China has been trapped in the dilemma of many developing countries, for which the modern West is both the imperialist enemy and the model of development. Its modern and contemporary history has seen violent swings from outright rejection of the West to imitation of it. Today, China is finally working its way toward a more integrative approach, drawing both on its experience of anti-imperialist revolution and of Western-style modernization, and is moving forward with a vision that would attempt to take the best from each of the hitherto either/or approaches. This change is well illustrated by China’s recent Belt and Road Initiative and the launching of the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank. Much of Western scholarship and analyses, however, are still largely mired in an older Cold War Manichaean world view, with a tendency to project onto China simply Machiavellian schemes in the pursuit and uses of power. Even Chinese scholars themselves, under the influence of political science studies that focus mainly on power and its use, have tended to overlook the distinctive Chinese mode of thinking of combining moral vision with practical considerations. Or, they simply restate or elaborate on official statements, without considering their actual practices or their underlying vision. We need a better understanding of the conceptual roots of China’s new perspective and vision in order to grasp its new strategy for development and its new integrative vision for the future. A comparison of the new vision with the recent strategies for rural development in China in the last section of this article will serve to illustrate more completely and clearly differences between the two approaches.
Treatment Integrity Failures during Timeout from Play
Authors: Foreman Apral P. , Peter Claire C. St. , Mesches Gabrielle A. , Robinson Nicole , Romano Lucie M.
Published: June 2020

Timeout is an effective behavior-reduction strategy with considerable generality. However, little is known about how timeout is implemented under natural conditions, or how errors in implementation impact effectiveness. During Experiment 1, we observed teachers implementing timeout during play to evaluate how frequently the teachers implemented timeout following target behavior (omission errors) and other behaviors (commission errors) for four children. Teachers rarely implemented timeout; thus, omission errors were frequent, but commission errors rarely occurred. During Experiment 2, we used a reversal design to compare timeout implemented with 0% omission integrity, 100% integrity, and the level of omission integrity observed to occur during Experiment 1 for two of the participants. Timeout implemented with reduced-integrity decreased problem behavior relative to baseline, suggesting that infrequent teacher implementation of timeout may have been sufficient to reduce problem behavior.
A Poultry Project in the Connecticut School for the Blind
Authors: Barrett Florence
Published: June 2020

Explanatory note: The project described below has grown out of efforts over a period of some years to interest a group of pupils in this school in poultry keeping. Previous to our present scheme we have tried to use the school flock as a basis for practical training. These attempts were only partially successful. We are now convinced that a complete separation is desirable between the pupils’ poultry activities and the institution flock. The 4-H Club organization seemed to us to promise most as a means to this end. We now have, thereby, a definite profit incentive and in addition the stimulation afforded by competition among all similar clubs in the county and state. Close cooperation with and definite help from the State College is also of large value to the enterprise.

The author of the article, Miss Florence Barrett, teacher of commercial subjects, modestly refers to the voluntary service rendered by one of the teachers. We realize that the succss of this undertaking is largely due her as it would have been impossible to initiate the project without a paid instructor had it not been for this contribution during its beginnings. I am glad to say that Miss Barrett still continues her interest and efforts in behalf of the venture.—Gordon Hicks, Superintendent, Connecticut School for the Blind.
The Nature of Creative Activity—A Review
Authors: Northrup Belle
Published: June 2020

The Nature of Creative Activity, Experimental and Comparative Studies of Visual and Non-Visual Sources of Drawing, Painting and Sculpture by means of the Artistic Products of Weak-sighted and Blind Subjects and of the Art of Different Epochs and Cultures, by Viktor Löwenfeld. Harcourt, Brace & Co., New York, 1939, pp. xvii & 272, $4.00.
Rights-oriented or responsibility-oriented? Two subtypes of populism in contemporary China
Authors: Guan Tianru , Yang Yilu
Published: June 2020

The present investigation engages in the debate on populism from a demand/acceptance perspective by providing examinations and explanations within the Chinese context. It clarifies the heterogeneity of China’s populism, separating rights-oriented populism, which shares the element of anti-elitism with the populism found in most European nations, from responsibility-oriented populism, which has ideological roots in China’s specific socio-political contexts. The study finds responsibility-oriented populism to be predominant in China (occupying 76.92% of the populist sample), with rights-oriented populism only representing 18.04% of the populist respondents. Using these results, we examine associations between each type of populism and a series of political ideations. Statistics suggest that China’s rights-oriented populism is negatively correlated with system justification and national identification. In contrast, stronger responsibility-oriented populism associates with higher system justification, greater national identification, more satisfaction with life, and higher right-wing authoritarianism. Finally, implications for research on populism and on China’s public opinion are discussed.
Double‐Layered (Cartilage Island + Extra Perichondrium) Graft for Type 1 Tympanoplasty
Authors: Ismi Onur , Gorur Kemal , Gur Harun , Ozcan Cengiz , Vayisoglu Yusuf
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare the graft success rates and hearing results of single‐layered (composite island) grafting (SLG) vs double‐layered (composite plus second layer of perichondrium) grafting (DLG) for over‐under type 1 tympanoplasty techniques.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Settings

Tertiary center otorhinolaryngology clinic.

Subjects and Methods

Medical charts of the patients who underwent type 1 tympanoplasty via the microscopic technique by a single surgeon between 2015 and 2019 were analyzed.

Results

A total of 48 patients were included. The DLG (n = 26) group had higher graft take rates as compared to the SLG group (n = 22) for all patients (P =. 038) and for moderate‐ to high‐risk patients according to Middle Ear Risk Index (MERI) scores (P =. 029) but not for patients with mild disease (P =. 429) or myringosclerotic patients (P =. 242). The DLG group exhibited higher air‐bone gap closure (C‐ABG) values as compared to the SLG group for all patients (P =. 018). However, there was no noticeable difference in C‐ABG values within the patients with successful grafting (P =. 217). Only graft success status had a significant effect on C‐ABG values when the multivariate linear regression was performed. (P =. 016). Higher MERI scores and presence of myringosclerosis were related to the unsuccessful grafting (P <. 01).

Conclusion

DLG tympanoplasty is encouraged, especially for patients with higher MERI scores, to increase the graft success rates. Better hearing outcomes of DLG tympanoplasty were related to the higher graft success status of this technique; DLG had no additional hearing effect for patients with successful grafting. Higher MERI scores and presence of myringosclerosis were related to graft failure.
Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction as an Early Identifier of COVID‐19 in Adults and Children: An International Multicenter Study
Authors: Qiu Chenghao , Cui Chong , Hautefort Charlotte , Haehner Antje , Zhao Jun , Yao Qi , Zeng Hui , Nisenbaum Eric J. , Liu Li , Zhao Yu , Zhang Di , Levine Corinna G. , Cejas Ivette , Dai Qi , Zeng Mei , Herman Philippe , Jourdaine Clement , de With Katja , Draf Julia , Chen Bing , Jayaweera Dushyantha T. , Denneny James C. , Casiano Roy , Yu Hongmeng , Eshraghi Adrien A. , Hummel Thomas , Liu Xuezhong , Shu Yilai , Lu Hongzhou
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of olfactory or gustatory dysfunction in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients.

Study Design

Multicenter case series.

Setting

Five tertiary care hospitals (3 in China, 1 in France, 1 in Germany).

Subjects and Methods

In total, 394 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–confirmed COVID‐19‐positive patients were screened, and those with olfactory or gustatory dysfunction were included. Data including demographics, COVID‐19 severity, patient outcome, and the incidence and degree of olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction were collected and analyzed. The Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD) and visual analog scale (VAS) were used to quantify olfactory and gustatory dysfunction, respectively. All subjects at 1 hospital (Shanghai) without subjective olfactory complaints underwent objective testing.

Results

Of 394 screened subjects, 161 (41%) reported olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction and were included. Incidence of olfactory and/or gustatory disorders in Chinese (n = 239), German (n = 39), and French (n = 116) cohorts was 32%, 69%, and 49%, respectively. The median age of included subjects was 39 years, 92 of 161 (57%) were male, and 10 of 161 (6%) were children. Of included subjects, 10% had only olfactory or gustatory symptoms, and 19% had olfactory and/or gustatory complaints prior to any other COVID‐19 symptom. Of subjects with objective olfactory testing, 10 of 90 demonstrated abnormal chemosensory function despite reporting normal subjective olfaction. Forty‐three percent (44/102) of subjects with follow‐up showed symptomatic improvement in olfaction or gustation.

Conclusions

Olfactory and/or gustatory disorders may represent early or isolated symptoms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. They may serve as a useful additional screening criterion, particularly for the identification of patients in the early stages of infection.
Comparative effectiveness of various treatment strategies for trigger finger by pairwise meta-analysis
Authors: Shen Po-Chih , Chou Shih-Hsiang , Lu Cheng-Chang , Fu Yin-Chih , Lu Chun-Kuan , Liu Wen-Chih , Huang Peng-Ju , Tien Yin-Chun , Shih Chia-Lung
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To compare the efficacy of various strategies in the treatment of trigger finger.

Data sources:

A systematic literature search for randomized controlled trials to compare treatments for trigger finger was conducted through three online databases, Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library, from their inception dates to 22 May 2020.

Methods:

Relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to evaluate the effect sizes in success rate for included articles.

Results:

Sixteen articles ( n = 1185) were included in our meta-analysis. The results showed that the efficacy of steroid injection was significantly better than the placebo group at short-term follow-ups (RR = 19.00, 95% CI = 1.17–309.77 for one-week; RR = 3.70, 95% CI = 3.70, 95% CI = 1.61–8.53 for one-month), and then became non-significant at four months (RR = 3.21, 95% CI = 0.88–11.79). There was no significant difference in success rate between steroid injection and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug injection, and between open surgery and percutaneous release at all the follow-ups. Only surgical treatment had significantly better efficacy in success rate than steroid injection at all follow-ups (RR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.34–0.66 for one-month; RR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.80–0.96 for three-month; RR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.48–0.68 for six-month; RR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.20–0.72 for 12-month).

Conclusion:

There were no differences in efficacy between steroid injection and shockwave or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug injection. The surgical treatments had the best efficacy among these treatments.
Exploring the Professional Development Needs of Early Childhood Paraeducators and Supervising Teachers
Authors: Frantz Rebecca , Douglas Sarah , Meadan Hedda , Sands Michelle , Bhana Naima , D’Agostino Sophia
Published: June 2020

Paraeducators play an important role supporting children with developmental disabilities in early childhood settings, and the current educational system has come to rely heavily on paraeducator supports. Unfortunately, most paraeducators receive limited training prior to engaging in their classroom roles and responsibilities, and teachers receive limited training related to supervising paraeducator staff. This study examined the roles and responsibilities, professional development experiences, perceived professional development needs, suggestions for professional development, and perceived barriers to professional development among early childhood paraeducators working with children with developmental disabilities and their supervising teachers using focus group method and a questionnaire. Implications for improving professional development practices among early childhood staff, remediating barriers to effective professional development, and future directions for research are discussed.
MiR-877 suppresses gastric cancer progression by downregulating AQP3
Authors: Zhu Hongyu , Wu Yulian , Kang Muxing , Zhang Bo
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Gastric cancer (GC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms of GC remain unclear. This study investigated the role of the miR-877–AQP3 axis in GC tumorigenesis.

Methods

The levels of miR-877 expression were measured in GC tissues and cell lines by qRT-PCR. Functional assays were performed to elucidate the role of miR-877 in GC development.

Results

Our results showed that miR-877 levels were lower in GC tissues and cell lines compared with the corresponding controls. Additionally, reduced miR-877 levels were associated with unfavorable prognoses. Increased miR-877 expression suppressed proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, while promoting apoptosis in GC cells. Luciferase reporter assays showed that aquaporin 3 (AQP3) was a direct downstream target of miR-877. Overexpression of AQP3 partially rescued the tumor suppressive effects of miR-877 in GC cells. Moreover, miR-877 was negatively correlated with AQP3 mRNA expression in GC tissues.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that miR-877 plays a suppressive role in GC tumorigenesis by regulating AQP3.
Late traumatic diaphragmatic rupture complicated by haemothorax and strangulation of the stomach: A case report
Authors: Xiao Jian-Chun , Ma Li-Yuan , Li Bing-Lu
Published: June 2020

Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture (TDR) is an uncommon but life-threatening condition often caused by blunt or penetrating trauma. Symptoms may appear late resulting in delayed or missed diagnosis. We report here a case of a 28-year-old man who presented with left subcostal pain and vomiting after recently binge drinking alcohol. He had experienced bilateral rib fractures two years previously. Computed tomography (CT) showed massive left pleural effusion and pleural fluid drained by thoracentesis had a bloody appearance. The patient developed septic shock but emergency surgery showed no active bleeding. Enhanced-CT showed herniated stomach with ischemic necrosis in the left thoracic cavity. Total gastrectomy and diaphragmatic repair were successful and the patient had an uneventful recovery. A high index of suspicion is necessary when evaluating haemothorax, especially in patients with recent or previous thoraco-abdominal injury.