bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of a chromosome‐level genome and variation map for the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Qi Haigang , Li Li , Zhang Guofan
Published: March 2021

The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is a widely distributed marine bivalve of great ecological and economic importance. In this study, we provide a high‐quality chromosome‐level genome assembled using Pacific Bioscience long reads and Hi‐C‐based and linkage‐map‐based scaffolding technologies and a high‐resolution variation map constructed using large‐scale resequencing analysis. The 586.8 Mb genome consists of 10 pseudochromosome sequences ranging from 38.6 to 78.9 Mb, containing 301 contigs with an N50 size of 3.1 Mb. A total of 30,078 protein‐coding genes were predicted, of which 22,757 (75.7%) were high‐reliability annotations supported by a homologous match to a curated protein in the SWISS‐PROT database or transcript expression. Although a medium level of repeat components (57.2%) was detected, the genomic content of the segmental duplications reached 26.2%, which is the highest among the reported genomes. By whole genome resequencing analysis of 495 Pacific oysters, a comprehensive variation map was built, comprised of 4.78 million single nucleotide polymorphisms, 0.60 million short insertions and deletions, and 49,333 copy number variation regions. The structural variations can lead to an average interindividual genomic divergence of 0.21, indicating their crucial role in shaping the Pacific oyster genome diversity. The large amount of mosaic distributed repeat elements, small variations, and copy number variations indicate that the Pacific oyster is a diploid organism with an extremely high genomic complexity at the intra‐ and interindividual level. The genome and variation maps can improve our understanding of oyster genome diversity and enrich the resources for oyster molecular evolution, comparative genomics, and genetic research.
Chromosome level reference of Atlantic halibut Hippoglossushippoglossus provides insight into the evolution of sexual determination systems
Authors: Einfeldt Anthony L. , Kess Tony , Messmer Amber , Duffy Steven , Wringe Brendan F. , Fisher Jonathan , den Heyer Cornelia , Bradbury Ian R. , Ruzzante Daniel E , Bentzen Paul
Published: March 2021

Changes in the genetic mechanisms that control sexual determination have occurred independently across the tree of life, and with exceptional frequency in teleost fishes. To investigate the genomic changes underlying the evolution of sexual determination, we sequenced a chromosome‐level genome, multitissue transcriptomes, and reduced representation population data for the Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), which has an XY/XX sex determination mechanism and has recently diverged (0.9–3.8 Ma) from the Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis), which has a ZZ/ZW system. We used frequency and coverage‐based population approaches to identify a putative sex‐determining factor, GSDF. We characterized regions with elevated heterozygosity and linkage disequilibrium indicating suppression of recombination across a nascent sex chromosome. We detected testis‐specific expression of GSDF, the sequence of which is highly conserved across flatfishes. Based on evidence from genome‐wide association, coverage, linkage disequilibrium, testis and brain transcriptomes, and sequence conservation with other flatfishes, we propose a mechanism for the recent evolution of an XY sex‐determination mechanism in Atlantic halibut. Changes to the ancestral sex‐determining gene DMRT1 in regulating the downstream gene GSDF probably coincided with GSDF, or a proximal regulatory element of it, becoming the primary sex‐determining factor. Our results suggest changes to a small number of elements can have drastic repercussions for the genomic substrate available to sex‐specific evolutionary forces, providing insight into how certain elements repeatedly evolve to control sex across taxa. Our chromosome‐level assembly, multitissue transcriptomes, and population genomic data provide a valuable resource and understanding of the evolution of sexual systems in fishes.
Pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant tislelizumab and chemotherapy for Pancoast tumor: A case report
Authors: Tang Wen‐Fang , Xu Wei , Huang Wei‐Zhao , Lin Gui‐Nan , Zeng Yu‐Mei , Lin Jie‐Shan , Wu Min , Bao Hua , Peng Jie‐Wen , Jiang Hai‐Ming , Wang Heng‐Qiang , Wu Ying‐Meng , Ye Hong‐Yu , Liang Yi
Published: March 2021

A 60‐year‐old man was hospitalized because of numbness and weakness in the right upper limb. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large mass in the right upper lobe invading the right eighth cervical and first thoracic nerve root. Biopsy pathology confirmed primary lung adenocarcinoma with a clinical stage of cT4N0M0 IIIA, negative for anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusion gene and epidermal growth factor receptor mutations but positive for programmed death ligand 1 (3%). Neoadjuvant tislelizumab and chemotherapy were offered to this patient with Pancoast tumor, and tumor shrinkage of 71% was achieved. After the operation, surgical pathology indicated pathologic complete response (pCR). Circulating tumor cells testing was negative after the first adjuvant treatment. In this case, we provide real‐world evidence of encouraging pCR with neoadjuvant tislelizumab and chemotherapy for a patient with Pancoast tumor.
Review on Late Pleistocene‐Holocene relative sea‐level changes in Kuwait: New evidence from Failaka island
Authors: Arhan Damien , Pavlopoulos Kosmas , Fouache Éric
Published: March 2021

New results from fieldwork carried out on Failaka island testify to relative sea‐level fluctuations during Late Pleistocene and Holocene. This study is based on analysing, sampling and dating geomorphological sea‐level indicators, including beach ridges or beachrocks. The results have been compared and harmonised with recalibrated data from pre‐existing literature to reconstruct the relative sea‐level local chronology. The vertical displacement identified may have induced coastline mobility and significant environmental changes and impacted the human occupation in Failaka and along the coastal areas of Kuwait. Eventually, the results highlight the impact of large‐scale crustal deformations on regional relative sea‐level variations.
Hydrops fetalis in PKD1L1‐related heterotaxy: Report of two foetuses and expanding the phenotypic and molecular spectrum
Authors: Correa Alec Reginald Errol , Endrakanti Mounika , Naini Kamal , Kabra Madhulika , Gupta Neerja
Published: March 2021

Abnormalities in the normal left–right axis asymmetry range from situs inversus totalis to situs ambiguous or heterotaxy. More than 80 genes have been described to have a role in the establishment of the normal situs of the internal organs. Pathogenic variants in the PKD1L1 gene have recently been described in heterotaxy and congenital heart disease. Till date, 11 families have been described with PKD1L1‐related heterotaxy. We describe the first Indian family with two affected foetuses with PKD1L1‐related nonimmune hydrops, congenital heart disease, situs inversus, and heterotaxy, with biallelic variants in the compound heterozygous state.
Association between COVID‐19 public health interventions and major trauma presentation in the northern region of New Zealand
Authors: McGuinness Matthew J. , Harmston Christopher ,   The Northern Region Trauma Network
Published: March 2021

Background

The New Zealand government implemented restrictive public health interventions to eradicate Covid‐19. Early reports suggest that one downstream ramification is a change in trauma presentations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect these public health measures had on major trauma admissions in the Northern Region, New Zealand.

Methods

A retrospective comparative cohort study was performed. Two cohorts were identified: 16 March to 8 June 2020 and the same period in 2019. Data was extracted from the New Zealand Major Trauma Registry which prospectively collects data on all major trauma in New Zealand. All patients who presented to a hospital in the Northern Region with major trauma and met the Registry inclusion criteria were included.

Results

There were 163 major trauma admissions in 2019 and 123 in 2020, a reduction of 25% (rate ratio 0.75, 95% confidence interval 0.6–0.95; P = 0.018). There was no significant difference in mechanism of injury (P = 0.442), type of injury (P = 0.062) or intent of injury (P = 0.971). There was a significant difference in place of injury (P = 0.004) with 20% of injuries happening at home in 2019 compared with 35% in 2020.

Conclusion

This study has shown that public health interventions to prevent the spread of COVID‐19 reduced major trauma admissions in the Northern Region of New Zealand. There was a variation in effect a between institutions within the region and a change in pattern of injury.
Social‐cognitive predictors of parental supervised toothbrushing: An application of the health action process approach
Authors: Smith Stephanie R. , Kroon Jeroen , Schwarzer Ralf , Hamilton Kyra
Published: March 2021

Background

We examined the social cognition determinants of parental supervised toothbrushing guided by the health action process approach (HAPA).

Methods

In a prospective correlational survey study, participants (N = 185, 84.3% women) completed HAPA social cognition constructs at an initial time point (T1), and 12 weeks later (T2) self‐reported on their parental supervised toothbrushing behaviour, toothbrushing habit, and action control.

Results

Structural equation models exhibited adequate fit with the data when past behaviour and habit were either excluded or included. Intention, self‐efficacy, planning, and action control were predictors of parental supervised toothbrushing; intention predicted action planning and coping planning; and self‐efficacy and attitude were predictors of intention. Indirect effects of social cognition constructs through intentions, and intentions through planning constructs were also observed. Inclusion of past behaviour and habit attenuated model effects.

Conclusion

Results indicate that parental supervised toothbrushing is a function of motivational and volitional processes. This knowledge can be used to inform behaviour change interventions targeting parental supervised toothbrushing.
New evidence on the minimal important change (MIC) for the Hand Eczema Severity Index (HECSI)
Authors: Yüksel Yasemin Topal , Agner Tove , Ofenloch Robert
Published: March 2021

Background

How changes in hand eczema (HE) severity correlate with the single scores on the Hand Eczema Severity Index (HECSI) is sparsely investigated and particularly needed in clinical trials.

Objectives

To find the minimal important change (MIC) for HECSI based on patient's and physician's assessments using different methods.

Methods

In this prospective follow‐up study, three different anchors were used: two anchor questions for patients and physician, respectively, and the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) with a photographic guide. MIC was estimated by mean change in patients with a one‐step increase to anchor‐questions, receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) plot, and smallest detectable change (SDC).

Results

One hundred fifty‐two patients with HE (63.8% female) were included at baseline (89% completed follow‐up). The mean change, ROC cutoff, and SDC values were 7.1, 4.5, 21.4 (patient‐rating), 8.2, 4.5, 8.3 (physician‐rating), and 16.6, 6.5, 27.1 points (PGA), respectively. SDC stratified by baseline severity was 2.9 and 11 points for mild and moderate‐severe HE (physician‐rating), respectively.

Conclusion

Identification of the MIC for the HECSI is important in relation to evaluation of treatment, intervention, and sample‐size calculations. An improvement of 8.3 points on the HECSI is recommended as the MIC. MIC values may differ according to baseline severity, and this variation should be clarified in future studies.
Principles for the socially responsible use of conservation monitoring technology and data
Authors: Sandbrook Chris , Clark Douglas , Toivonen Tuuli , Simlai Trishant , O'Donnell Stephanie , Cobbe Jennifer , Adams William
Published: March 2021

Wildlife conservation and research benefits enormously from automated and interconnected monitoring tools. Some of these tools, such as drones, remote cameras, and social media, can collect data on humans, either accidentally or deliberately. They can therefore be thought of as conservation surveillance technologies (CSTs). There is increasing evidence that CSTs, and the data they yield, can have both positive and negative impacts on people, raising ethical questions about how to use them responsibly. CST use may accelerate because of the COVID‐19 pandemic, adding urgency to addressing these ethical challenges. We propose a provisional set of principles for the responsible use of such tools and their data: (a) recognize and acknowledge CSTs can have social impacts; (b) deploy CSTs based on necessity and proportionality relative to the conservation problem; (c) evaluate all potential impacts of CSTs on people; (d) engage with and seek consent from people who may be observed and/or affected by CSTs; (e) build transparency and accountability into CST use; (f) respect peoples' rights and vulnerabilities; and (g) protect data in order to safeguard privacy. These principles require testing and could conceivably benefit conservation efforts, especially through inclusion of people likely to be affected by CSTs.
Ozone‐induced encephalopathy: A novel iatrogenic entity
Authors: Haggiag Shalom , Prosperini Luca , Stasolla Alessandro , Gerace Carmela , Tortorella Carla , Gasperini Claudio
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose

Ozone‐based treatments can be associated with central nervous system toxicity, which we have termed ozone‐induced encephalopathy (OIE). A detailed description of its phenotype is lacking.

Methods

Three cases with findings suggestive of OIE are presented, and the literature is reviewed.

Results

Case 1 is a healthy 59‐year‐old man presenting with loss of consciousness, cortical blindness, restlessness, and anterograde amnesia immediately following a cervical ozone‐therapy (OT) session for chronic neck pain. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on admission was normal. A follow‐up scan demonstrated a subtle increased T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery signal within the left cerebellum; an echocardiography showed a patent foramen ovale (PFO). Case 2 is a 56‐year‐old woman with history of migraine, PFO, and lumbar pain who presented with headache, bilateral visual impairment, motor dysphasia, and agitation. All her symptoms began immediately after lumbar OT. Her brain MRI was negative. Case 3 is a healthy 27‐year‐old man who complained of vertigo and mild blurred vision 5 min following a cervical ozone injection. His neurological examination and brain MRI were normal. All three patients had full recovery within 48 h. We found eight additional cases of OIE in the literature.

Conclusions

OIE should be considered in patients presenting with neurological symptoms in close relation to OT. OIE is likely a novel iatrogenic entity with a complex pathogenesis; it is probably underreported because it mimics other neurological conditions.
Earnings management around founder CEO reappointments and successions in family firms
Authors: Ansari Iram F. , Goergen Marc , Mira Svetlana
Published: March 2021

This paper studies reappointment of a chief executive officer (CEO) and succession events in listed family firms with an incumbent family CEO. We explore whether family firms with a founder CEO are more likely to engage in earnings management preevent than other family firms. We find evidence of preevent upward earnings management for firms that reappoint their founder CEO but no for other family firms. These findings suggest that the costs and benefits from earnings management change around founder CEO reappointments in family firms. Investors, auditors, policymakers and regulators should be aware of the temptation of founder CEOs to inflate earnings preceding their reappointment.
Polycystin‐1 modulates RUNX2 activation and osteocalcin gene expression via ERK signalling in a human craniosynostosis cell model
Authors: Katsianou Maira , Papavassiliou Kostas A. , Zoi Ilianna , Gargalionis Antonios N. , Panagopoulos Dimitrios , Themistocleous Marios S. , Piperi Christina , Papavassiliou Athanasios G. , Basdra Efthimia K.
Published: March 2021

Craniosynostosis refers to the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures leading to skull shape deformities and brain growth restriction. Among the many factors that contribute to abnormal suture fusion, mechanical forces seem to play a major role. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanobiology‐related mechanisms of craniosynostosis still remain unknown. Understanding how aberrant mechanosensation and mechanotransduction drive premature suture fusion will offer important insights into the pathophysiology of craniosynostosis and result in the development of new therapies, which can be used to intervene at an early stage and prevent premature suture fusion. Herein, we provide evidence for the first time on the role of polycystin‐1 (PC1), a key protein in cellular mechanosensitivity, in craniosynostosis, using primary cranial suture cells isolated from patients with trigonocephaly and dolichocephaly, two common types of craniosynostosis. Initially, we showed that PC1 is expressed at the mRNA and protein level in both trigonocephaly and dolichocephaly cranial suture cells. Followingly, by utilizing an antibody against the mechanosensing extracellular N‐terminal domain of PC1, we demonstrated that PC1 regulates runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) activation and osteocalcin gene expression via extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) signalling in our human craniosynostosis cell model. Altogether, our study reveals a novel mechanotransduction signalling axis, PC1‐ERK‐RUNX2, which affects osteoblastic differentiation in cranial suture cells from trigonocephaly and dolichocephaly patients.
Reproductive biology of hardhead catfish Ariopsis felis: evidence for overwintering oocytes
Authors: Pensinger Lucas G. , Brown‐Peterson Nancy J. , Green Christopher C. , Midway Stephen R.
Published: March 2021

Hardhead catfish Ariopsis felis are a common marine catfish in the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). The low economic value of this species has depressed interest and research, and although the species is known for its extremely low fecundity and large oocytes, little else is known about this catfish species. A total of 1230 samples across all months of the year from 2016 to 2018 resulted in 681 females, and analysis of gonado‐somatic index (IG) revealed 1% to be a clear cut‐off indicating maturity. Females are considered capable of spawning from April to June when IG averaged 4–8%. Both atresia and post‐ovulatory follicles were present in July, suggesting that spawning ends in July in the northern GOM. The 1% IG cut‐off was used to designate maturity, and from that an L50 of 253 mm was estimated. Batch fecundity from 41 females estimated a mean batch size of 36 oocytes. Perhaps the most interesting finding was the presence of secondary growth stage oocytes (e.g., cortical alveoli) from July through November, well outside the spawning capable period. Furthermore, 78% of females had some early vitellogenic oocytes present during the non‐spawning season, and the distribution of these relatively large (2–5 mm) oocytes did not change over time. The results here are not only important as reproductive biology information for a common and abundant species, but also present interesting and unusual patterns of non‐spawning season oocyte development that is not commonly seen in Western Hemisphere subtropical fish species.
Programmed cell death‐ligand 1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics
Authors: Mou Haibo , Yang Qiu‐an , Yu Lanfang , Wang Ting , Liu Kui , Shen Rong , Pan Xuedong , Dai Yi , Wan Qing , Zhou Fangling , Qian Lili , Chen Donglin , Yau Thomas , Dong Xiaowei , Wang Xuemei , Wang Shuang
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) immunohistochemistry score has been approved as the predictive biomarker for anti‐PD1/PD‐L1 therapy in several advanced malignancies. Although its predictive role remained inconclusive in hepatocellular carcinoma, ongoing study of anti‐PD1/PD‐L1 therapy showed promising results. However, less is known about the PD‐L1 immunohistochemistry score and factors correlated with it in hepatocellular carcinoma. We investigated PD‐L1 immunohistochemistry scores in a large cohort of hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as its correlation with various clinical and genomic factors.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expression of PD‐L1 protein in 315 hepatocellular carcinoma tissues. All slides were independently reviewed by three senior pathologists. Next‐generation YS panel (450 genes) sequencing was performed on 309 patients.

Results

Higher PD‐L1 expression as measured by combined positive score (CPS) was associated with increased Edmondson–Steiner grade (grade III vs II, P = 0.041) and TP53 mutations (P = 0.021). PD‐L1 CPS had no correlation with tumor mutational burden (Spearman's correlation coefficient 0.067). PD‐L1 CPS was not significantly associated with hepatitis B virus infection.

Conclusions

Our data indicated that patients with higher Edmondson–Steiner grade (grade III) had significantly higher PD‐L1 CPS than patients with lower Edmondson–Steiner grade (grade II). Patients with TP53 mutations had significantly higher PD‐L1 expression.
Adverse events associated with home blood transfusion: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sharp Rebecca , Turner Lisa , Altschwager Jodie , Corsini Nadia , Esterman Adrian
Published: March 2021

Aims and objectives

To determine the rate of individual and system adverse events associated with blood transfusion at home.

Background

Home or residential care facility based blood transfusion is beneficial for individuals requiring transfusion due to reduced disruption to daily life and the comfort of a familiar environment. However, blood transfusion may result in serious adverse events. There is a lack of research in this area, and there is a need to identify rates of adverse events and evaluate the system used for this service.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Existing data routinely collected for clinical care were used to determine client and system adverse events of medically stable adults with a chronic disease who underwent blood transfusion in a home setting provided by a nurse‐led service. A STROBE EQUATOR checklist was used for this study (see Appendix S1).

Results

There were 1790 episodes of care involving 533 participants, with 13 cases of transfusion reaction (incident rate [IR] 0.7%; 95% CI 0.43–1.25). Only five of these were severe, resulting in the cessation of the blood transfusion and further medical review or hospital admission (IR 0.28%; 95% CI 0.12–0.68). There were no cases of tampered blood packaging, expired or visually damaged blood products. There were 10 cases of incorrect paperwork (0.6%) and nine cases of incorrect temperature (0.5%). There were 153 cases of vascular access device adverse events (IR 8.5% 95% CI 7.3–9.9), most commonly, difficulty cannulating the individual (n = 82, 54%).

Conclusions

A nurse‐led home blood transfusion service was associated with low rates of both individual and system adverse events. Further research is needed to explore the perception of those using this service and supports required to improve the experience.

Relevance to clinical practice

Blood transfusions may be associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. This risk may be increased in a home setting due to the distance from an acute care facility. This study has demonstrated that a nurse‐led home blood transfusion service is safe (<1% adverse event rate) for those with a medically stable, chronic condition. There were few failures in the system used to provide this service. Adverse events associated with the vascular access device were the most common complication and the reason for most blood product wastage. Mainly, this was due to difficulty inserting the short‐term peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC). RNs should consider ultrasound to aid PIVC insertion to facilitate treatment provision and enhance the experience of the individual.
Community‐ based maternal and newborn interventions in Africa: Systematic review
Authors: Nishimwe Clemence , Mchunu Gugu G. , Mukamusoni Dariya
Published: March 2021

Aim and objectives

This review analysed the implementation and integration into healthcare systems of maternal and newborn healthcare interventions in Africa that include community health workers to reduce maternal and newborn deaths.

Background

Most neonatal deaths (99%) occur in low‐ and middle‐income countries, with approximately half happening at home. In resource‐constrained settings, community‐based maternal and newborn care is regarded as a sound programme for improving newborn survival. Health workers can play an important role in supporting families to adopt sound health practices, encourage delivery in healthcare facilities and ensure timeous referral. Maternal and newborn mortality is a major public health problem, particularly in sub‐Saharan Africa, where the Millennium Development Goals 4, 5 and 6 were not achieved at the end of 2015.

Methods

The review includes quantitative, qualitative and mixed‐method studies, with a data‐based convergent synthesis design being used, and the results grouped into categories and trends. The review took into account the participants, interventions, context and outcome frameworks (PICO), and followed the adapted PRISMA format for reporting systematic reviews of the qualitative and quantitative evidence guide checklist.

Results

The results from the 17 included studies focused on three themes: antenatal, delivery and postnatal care interventions as a continuum. The main components of the interventions were inadequate, highlighting the need for improved planning before each stage of implementation. A conceptual framework of planning and implementation was elaborated to improve maternal and newborn health.

Conclusion

The systematic review highlight the importance of thoroughly planning before any programme implementation, and ensuring that measures are in place to enable continuity of services.

Relevant to the clinical practice

Conceptual framework of planning and implementation of maternal and newborn healthcare interventions by maternal community health workers.
Otopathogen interactions in the nasopharynx of children, and the predictive value of nasopharyngeal aspirate culture for the aetiology of upper respiratory infections
Authors: Browne Jessica J , Matthews Evan H , Taylor‐Robinson Andrew W , Kyd Jennelle M
Published: March 2021

Aim

To evaluate nasopharyngeal aspirate cultures for screening otopathogen carriage in the adenoid in children 2–7 years of age.

Methods

Thirty‐seven children, 2–7 years of age, scheduled for adenoidectomy were enrolled into this prospective study at Rockhampton, Australia. Adenoid biopsy and nasopharyngeal aspirate bacteriology were assessed by conventional culture. Demographic and environmental data were collected by questionnaire. Statistical analyses for descriptive, comparison and logistic regression tests between microbial, demographic, environmental and clinical groups were applied.

Results

Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, non‐typeable Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis were detected in 38, 38, 35 and 24% of cases, respectively. Streptococcus pneumoniae was an independent determinant for non‐typeable H. influenzae and S. aureus colonisation, and S. aureus was an independent determinant for S. pneumoniae colonisation. The nasopharyngeal aspirate otopathogen cultures were strong predictors for otopathogens in the adenoid, with moderate‐high test accuracy for all otopathogens (receiver operator characteristics area under the curve ranging from 71 to 97% for the otopathogens tested). Children with positive non‐typeable H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis, S. pneumoniae and S. aureus nasopharyngeal aspirate cultures were more likely to have the equivalent species in adenoid cultures (positive likelihood ratios = undefined, 15.0, 9.09 and 5.85, respectively).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that nasopharyngeal aspirate cultures are an indicator of otopathogens in the adenoid. Nasopharyngeal aspirate cultures may provide clinicians with information that informs clinical management. Strategies for improved management to reduce otopathogen carriage could reduce the prevalence of chronic upper respiratory infections that contribute to adenoidectomy.
Digestibility of phosphorus in growing pigs as influenced by source and concentration of dietary phosphorus and collection site
Authors: Aderibigbe Ayodeji , Ajuwon Kolapo , Adeola Olayiwola
Published: March 2021

The current study examined the influence of source and concentration of dietary phosphorus (P) on the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of P in growing pigs. Eighteen cannulated barrows (25 ± 5 kg) were allotted to a triplicate 6 × 3 incomplete Latin square design with six diets and three periods. The diets comprised of soybean meal (SBM) or distillers' dried grain with solubles (DDGS) as sole sources of dietary P, and three concentrations of P (2.0, 2.5 or 3.0 g/kg) in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement. The AID and ATTD of P were not different (p = 0.37) in all diets. Apparent digestibility of P was affected (p < 0.01) by source and concentration of P. There was no interaction between source and concentration of dietary P on the apparent digestibility of P. Determined by regression analysis, the true ileal digestibility of P was 58.3% or 57.6%, and true total tract digestibility of P was 56.0% or 62.6%, for SBM or DDGS, respectively. The regression‐derived ileal endogenous P loss (EPL) was 0.61 or 0.13 g/kg DM intake, and total tract EPL was 0.53 or 0.35 g/kg DM intake, for SBM or DDGS, respectively. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that both the source and concentration of dietary P affect the digestibility of P in growing pigs.
Race reporting and representation in onychomycosis clinical trials: A systematic review
Authors: Chang Michelle J. , Qiu Yuqing , Lipner Shari R.
Published: March 2021

Background

Onychomycosis is the most common nail disease seen in clinical practice. Inclusion of diverse groups in onychomycosis clinical trials subjects is necessary to generalise efficacy data.

Objectives

We aimed to systematically review race and ethnicity reporting and representation, as well as, treatment outcomes in onychomycosis clinical trials.

Methods

A PubMed search for onychomycosis clinical trials was performed in August 2020. Primary clinical trial data were included and post hoc analyses were excluded. Categorical variables were compared using chi‐squared and Fisher's exact tests. Statistical significance was set atp < .05. Photos in articles were categorised by Fitzpatrick skin type.

Results

Only 32/182 (17.5%) trials reported on race and/or ethnicity and only one trial compared treatment efficacy in different subgroups. Darker skin colours were infrequently depicted in articles. Topical treatment, location with ≥1 US‐based site, industry funding type and publication date after 2000 were significantly associated with reporting of racial/ethnic data (p < .05 for all comparisons).

Limitations

Demographics on excluded subjects and methods of recruitment were not available. Assigning Fitzpatrick skin type is inherently subjective.

Conclusions

This study highlights a need for consistent reporting of races and ethnicities of onychomycosis clinical trial participants with subgroup analyses of treatment efficacies.
Why has China’s Inequality of Household Wealth Risen Rapidly in the Twenty‐First Century?
Authors: Knight John , Shi Li , Haiyuan Wan
Published: March 2021

The inequality of wealth in China has increased rapidly in recent years. China presents a fascinating case study of how inequality of household wealth increases as economic reform takes place. Wealth inequality and its growth are measured and decomposed using data from two national sample surveys of the China Household Income Project (CHIP) relating to 2002 and 2013. The changing relationships between income and wealth are explored. An original attempt is made to explain the rising wealth inequality in terms of differential saving, differential house price inflation, income from wealth, and a growing urban‐rural wealth disparity. Income from wealth as conventionally measured makes a negligible contribution but becomes central when it is reformulated to include real capital gain as part of income. A series of counterfactual experiments are conducted in order to measure the contributions of the various factors to the rise in inequality. Wealth and wealth inequality increase most rapidly for those in the top wealth decile.
Buffering the Stigma? On the Racialization of Religious Attendance and Health among Formerly Incarcerated Persons
Authors: Thomson Robert A.
Published: March 2021

Religious involvement can benefit health by providing social and/or psychological resources for coping with strain. But it can have the opposite effect under certain conditions, such as feeling abandoned by God or belonging to a tradition that discourages medical care. Here, I consider whether religion buffers the stigma‐related health risks of prior incarceration, and whether racial–ethnic status moderates the relationship. Using panel data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY79), I regressed count measures of physical and mental health at midlife on religious attendance, and prior incarceration by racial‐ethnic group. While religious attendance correlated inversely with mental health issues, results provide no evidence that religion buffers the positive associations between incarceration and health issues. Religious attendance was unrelated to health among formerly incarcerated African Americans and Hispanics and strongly related to worse health among formerly incarcerated whites, suggesting additional stigmatization in their religious communities because of their criminal history.
Morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural features of gray eosinophils in nine cats
Authors: Holmes Emma , Raskin Rose , McGill Paul , Szladovits Balázs
Published: March 2021

Background

Gray eosinophils, resembling those in sighthound dog breeds, have not previously been reported in cats.

Objectives

We aimed to provide a morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural description of gray eosinophils in cats.

Methods

Blood films examined as part of routine hematology profiles in cats from May 2015 to July 2018 were evaluated for the presence of gray eosinophils. When identified with modified Wright stain, cells were morphologically assessed and additionally stained with Diff‐Quik, ALP, Luna, and Luxol fast blue stains and compared with feline controls. Two cases were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and compared with a feline control.

Results

Gray eosinophils were identified in 9 of 2641 cats during the study period. Compared with typical feline eosinophils, these cells contained abundant round granules instead of the characteristic rod‐shaped specific granules. These granules lacked the characteristic intense pink/red staining with Romanowsky stains and did not stain with ALP, Luna, or Luxol fast blue stains. On TEM, the classical electron‐dense core of these granules was replaced by a core with fragmented or amorphous internal material. Typical eosinophils were not identified in any cat in which gray eosinophils were identified.

Conclusions

The distinct morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural changes in gray feline eosinophils might be associated with a reduction or lack of major basic protein (MBP) in specific granule cores. Similar to canine gray eosinophils, accurate recognition of these cells is essential to prevent their misclassification as toxic neutrophils.
Precursor‐targeted immune‐mediated anemia in a dog with a stage IV mast cell tumor and bone marrow infiltration
Authors: Akiyoshi Makoto , Hisasue Masaharu , Neo Sakurako , Akiyoshi Masami
Published: March 2021

A 12‐year‐old spayed female Shiba Inu dog was referred to our hospital for a suspected mast cell tumor (MCT) of the bone marrow (BM). Laboratory abnormalities included severe nonregenerative anemia (packed cell volume or PCV: 12.5%; reference interval (RI): 37.3‐61.7%; reticulocytes: 35.1 × 103/µL; RI: 10‐110 × 103/µL), and a few mast cells were visualized in the blood smear examination. The BM was hypercellular with hematopoietic cells, a decreased myeloid:erythroid (M:E) ratio (0.77; RI, 0.9‐1.8), and no dysplastic hematopoietic cells. Mast cells accounted for 11.5% of the total nucleated BM cells. Neoplastic mast cells and histiocytes phagocytizing erythroid progenitor cells were occasionally noted. The dog was diagnosed with precursor‐targeted immune‐mediated anemia (PIMA) concurrent and a stage IV MCT infiltrating the BM. Multimodal treatment included toceranib, imatinib, vinblastine, lomustine (CCNU), prednisolone, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, and a blood transfusion. The dog died due to MCT progression lasting 139 days after the initial BM examination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a dog presenting with PIMA and a stage IV MCT infiltrating the BM.
Treatment of murine partial thickness scald injuries with multipotent adult progenitor cells decreases inflammation and promotes angiogenesis leading to improved burn injury repair
Authors: Ahangar Parinaz , Mills Stuart J. , Smith Louise E. , Strudwick Xanthe L. , Ting Anthony E. , Vaes Bart , Cowin Allison J.
Published: March 2021

Stem cells have been shown to have potential as a new therapy for burns and promote wound healing through decreasing inflammation and increasing angiogenesis. Multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPC® cells) are a subpopulation of bone marrow‐derived stem cells with outstanding self‐renewal and differentiation capacity. MAPC cells also secrete a wide range of cytokines which can affect cellular activities. This article aimed to examine the effects of MAPC cells treatment on burn injury repair using a mouse model of partial thickness burn injury. The immunomodulatory effect of MAPC cells was investigated in vitro using a simultaneous T‐cell proliferation assay. Partial thickness burns were created on the dorsal surface of mice and MAPC cells were administered via intradermal injection to the wound margins 24 h post‐burn injury. The burn tissues were analysed macroscopically to determine wound area and histologically assessed to determine wound width and rate of re‐epithelialisation. Immunohistochemistry and ELISA were employed to assess cell proliferation, inflammation and angiogenesis and collagen deposition in the burn area. MAPC cells inhibit the proliferation of stimulated T cells in culture. Burns intradermally injected with MAPC cells showed a significant reduction in the macroscopic wound area, histologic wound width and had an increased rate of re‐epithelialisation. Immunohistochemistry and ELISA analysis of burn tissues showed dampened inflammation evidenced by a reduction in neutrophilic infiltration and modulation of inflammatory cytokines. Angiogenesis within the burn area was also improved in MAPC cell treated mice. However, no significant effect of MAPC cell treatment was observed on extracellular matrix production. Treatment of burns with MAPC cells improved burn injury repair with reduced time to healing, decreased inflammation and increased angiogenesis. These findings demonstrate the promising effects of MAPC cells on burn injury repair and suggest MAPC cells as a candidate source for clinical cell therapies.
Solution of Problems of Elasticity by the Framework Method
Authors: Hrennikoff A.
Published: March 2021

Because of mathematical difficulties which make the solution of differential equations of the theory of elasticity impossible in many cases, the author has been impelled to seek some other method of approach than one of pure mathematical analysis. The method outlined in this paper is of this character and may with some qualifications be applied to problems of two-dimensional stress, bending of plates, bending of cylindrical shells, the general case of three-dimensional stress, and a great variety of others. Essentially, the method consists in replacing the continuous material of the elastic body being studied by a framework of bars arranged according to a definite pattern, the elements of which are endowed with elastic properties suitable to the type of problem. This framework is then analyzed, according to the procedure outlined in the paper for various types of elastic problems. Examples of the application of the principles involved are also given.
Steady Flow in the Transition Length of a Straight Tube
Authors: Langhaar Henry L.
Published: March 2021

By means of a linearizing approximation, the Navier-Stokes equations are solved for the case of steady flow in the transition length of a straight tube. The family of velocity profiles is defined by Bessel functions, and the parameter of this family is tabulated against the axial co-ordinate in a dimensionless form. Hence, the length of transition is obtained. The curves give a comparison of the author’s calculations of the velocity field with those of other investigators, and with the experimental data of Nikuradse. The pressure function is derived from the computed velocity field by means of the energy equation, and the pressure drop in the transition length is defined by a dimensionless constant m, which is computed to be 2.28. A discussion of this constant is given in the conclusions.
Some Dynamic Properties of Rubber
Authors: Harris C. O.
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the investigation described in this paper was to obtain information concerning the dynamic properties of rubber bonded to metal. Two properties of rubber were measured (a) the internal damping and (b) the dynamic modulus of elasticity. Two types of specimens were tested (a) rubber cylinders bonded to steel cylinders at the ends and stressed in compression and (b) specimens of rubber bonded to steel and stressed in shear. All specimens were of the same stock, 5140-V-4, manufactured by the U. S. Rubber Company. The hardness, as measured by the durometer, varied from 32 to 40. In the process of bonding to the steel, a 1/32-in. layer of 60-durometer stock was added adjacent to each piece of steel. This represents standard practice of the U. S. Rubber Company in bonding soft stock to metal. All specimens were cured for 30 min at 279 F.
Stress Distributions in Cylindrically Aeolotropic Plates
Authors: Carrier G. F.
Published: March 2021

The subject of this paper is the mathematical analysis of the distribution of stress in thin plates of cylindrically aeolotropic material. The plane-stress theory leading to the general solution of this problem under arbitrary boundary conditions is developed in a manner analogous to that used in the corresponding problem involving isotropic materials. The analogy between the plane-stress and plane-strain problems is the same as in the isotropic case, and hence needs no discussion. The following problems are solved: The ring under uniform radial internal and external pressure; the extension of this problem to include the case of the complete disk; the rotating disk; the curved beam bent by end couples; the dislocation problems of the ring; the hydrostatic-stress problem; the force and the couple applied to the vertex of a wedge; and the force applied at a point in the infinite plate. Stresses and displacements are plotted for the first four of the foregoing problems, showing the effect of the degree of anisotropy.
The Free Lateral Vibrations of a Cantilever Beam With a Terminal Dashpot
Authors: McBride E. J.
Published: March 2021

This paper first presents the results of the solution of the problem of the longitudinally vibrating beam with a terminal dashpot, some of the more interesting features of which are explained in detail. A brief statement is also given of the corresponding results in the single-degree-of-freedom system. Following this, the results for the laterally vibrating cantilever beam with a terminal dashpot are discussed; the details of this analysis are stated; and a résumé of the general results are presented.
APOE4
disrupts intracellular lipid homeostasis in human iPSC-derived glia
Authors: Sienski Grzegorz , Narayan Priyanka , Bonner Julia Maeve , Kory Nora , Boland Sebastian , Arczewska Aleksandra A. , Ralvenius William T. , Akay Leyla , Lockshin Elana , He Liang , Milo Blerta , Graziosi Agnese , Baru Valeriya , Lewis Caroline A. , Kellis Manolis , Sabatini David M. , Tsai Li-Huei , Lindquist Susan
Published: March 2021

APOE4
-disrupted intracellular lipid homeostasis in human and yeast cells was reversed by promoting phospholipid synthesis through choline supplementation.
Lytic Bacteriophages Facilitate Antibiotic Sensitization of Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Canfield Gregory S. , Chatterjee Anushila , Espinosa Juliel , Mangalea Mihnea R. , Sheriff Emma K. , Keidan Micah , McBride Sara W. , McCollister Bruce D. , Hang Howard C. , Duerkop Breck A.
Published: March 2021

Enterococcus faecium
, a commensal of the human intestine, has emerged as a hospital-adapted, multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogen. Bacteriophages (phages), natural predators of bacteria, have regained attention as therapeutics to stem the rise of MDR bacteria.
Synchrotron-Based X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy Reveals Accumulation of Polymyxins in Single Human Alveolar Epithelial Cells
Authors: Azad Mohamad A. K. , Zhang Shuo , Li Jiayao , Kim Yeonuk , Yu Heidi H. , Fulcher Alex J. , Howard Daryl L. , de Jonge Martin D. , James Simon A. , Roberts Kade D. , Velkov Tony , Fu Jing , Zhou Qi Tony , Li Jian
Published: March 2021

Intravenous administration of the last-line polymyxins results in poor drug exposure in the lungs and potential nephrotoxicity, whereas inhalation therapy offers better pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics for pulmonary infections by delivering the antibiotic directly to the infection site. However, polymyxin inhalation therapy has not been optimized, and adverse effects can occur.
TLR3 Activation by Zika Virus Stimulates Inflammatory Cytokine Production Which Dampens the Antiviral Response Induced by RIG-I-Like Receptors
Authors: Plociennikowska Agnieszka , Frankish Jamie , Moraes Thais , Del Prete Dolores , Kahnt Franziska , Acuna Claudio , Slezak Michal , Binder Marco , Bartenschlager Ralf
Published: March 2021

Zika virus (ZIKV) has a pronounced neurotropism, and infections with this virus can cause serious neurological disorders, most notably microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Our studies reveal that during ZIKV infection, recognition of viral RNA by TLR3 enhances the production of inflammatory cytokines and suppresses the interferon response triggered by RIG-I-like receptors (RLR) in a SOCS3-dependent manner, thus facilitating virus replication.
Draft Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Enteritidis ODA 99-30581-13, a Heat-Resistant Strain Isolated from Shell Eggs
Authors: Xu Yumin , Abdelhamid Ahmed G. , Yousef Ahmed E.
Published: March 2021

Salmonella enterica
serovar Enteritidis ODA 99‐30581‐13 is a relatively heat-resistant strain isolated from shell eggs. The strain has a 4,777,965-bp genome sequence (52.1% GC content) that was predicted to encode 4,455 proteins, including heat stress response proteins and stress response regulators; these may be involved in its heat resistance.