bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social participation patterns and the incidence of functional disability: The Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study
Authors: Ukawa Shigekazu , Tamakoshi Akiko , Okada Yutaka , Ito Yoichi M , Taniguchi Rika , Tani Yukako , Sasaki Yuri , Saito Junko , Haseda Maho , Kondo Naoki , Kondo Katsunori
Published: July 2020

Aim

To examine whether patterns of social participation vary in their associations with functional disability.

Methods

Data from 44 978 participants (22 750 men and 22 228 women) who participated in the 2010 Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study were analyzed; a study of those aged ≥65 years from 23 municipalities in eight prefectures. Social participation information was obtained at baseline with an eight‐item questionnaire. Incidence of functional disability from 2010 to 2013 was defined as a new certification of eligibility for municipal public long‐term care insurance. Social participation patterns were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and participants were classified into quartiles of factor scores of social participation patterns. A competing risk model was used to calculate the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the incidence of functional disability in 3 years of follow‐up.

Results

Two social patterns were identified: sports groups/clubs and hobby groups, and political groups/organizations and industry/trade associations. For both patterns, compared with participants in the lowest quartile, participants in the highest quartile were more likely to be male, college educated, high‐income and current drinkers. Both patterns were associated with reduced incidence of functional disability (adjusted hazard ratios for top quartile of sports and hobby pattern: 0.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.59, 0.74; for political and industry/trade pattern: 0.81, 95% confidence interval: 0.72, 0.90; P for trend <0.001 for both).

Conclusions

Those whose social participation patterns were characterized by frequent participation in sports groups/clubs and hobby groups or political groups/organizations and industry/trade associations were less likely to develop a functional disability. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 765–772.
The effects of three types of China's official turnover on air quality: A regression discontinuity study
Authors: Chen Liqiang , Gao Ming
Published: July 2020

Air pollution control has been incorporated into the performance appraisal system of local officials in China. It is necessary to explore the underlying reasons behind China's air pollution. In this study, we measure the effects of different types of official turnover (OT) on air quality using a sharp regression discontinuity model, and collect the appointment information of mayors and municipal party secretaries from 333 cities in China between December 2013 and January 2018. Results show: (a) OT leads to a significant increase in air pollution discharges and this result remains valid after a series of robustness checks; (b) the level of air pollution increases when newly appointed officials are from the local district; (c) officials promoted from other districts tend to break the existing political connections and do not aggravate local air pollution; (d) when officials come from the central government, they often do not take any actions to control air pollution; (e) from the perspective of heterogeneity, we find that frequency of turnover, ex‐officials, and the age, place of birth, and region of the officials have a heterogeneous impact on the officials' behavior. These findings shed new light on the determinants of air quality and suggest that OT is important in controlling air pollution.
Inhibitors—Recent insights
Authors: Pratt Kathleen P. , Arruda Valder R. , Lacroix‐Desmazes Sébastien
Published: July 2020

The development of inhibitory antibodies to therapeutic factor VIII (FVIII) in haemophilia A (HA) patients is the major complication in treatment/prevention of haemorrhages. The reasons some HA patients develop inhibitors while others do not remain unclear. This review briefly summarizes our understanding of anti‐FVIII immune responses, the roles of T cells, both effector and regulatory, and generally discusses the interplay between FVIII and the immune system, both in factor replacement therapy and gene therapy, with some comparisons to factor IX and haemophilia B therapies. Notably, we propose that the prevailing observed active tolerance to FVIII in both HA and non‐HA individuals rests to greater or lesser extents on peripherally induced immune tolerance. We also propose that the immune systems of inhibitor‐negative HA patients do not merely ignore therapeutic FVIII, but rather have immunologically assessed and actively tolerized the patients to exogenous FVIII. Induction of such peripheral immune tolerance may further be triggered in HA patients who failed to tolerize upon initial FVIII exposure by ‘appropriate’ stimulation of their immune system, eg by immune tolerance induction therapy via intensive FVIII therapy, by oral administration of FVIII, by cellular therapies or by gene therapy directed to immuno‐tolerogenic sites such as the liver.
Is platelet monitoring during 7‐day lusutrombopag treatment necessary in chronic liver disease patients with thrombocytopenia undergoing planned invasive procedures? A phase IIIb open‐label study
Authors: Numata Kazushi , Tanaka Katsuaki , Katsube Takayuki , Ochiai Toshimitsu , Fukuhara Takahiro , Kano Takeshi , Osaki Yukio , Izumi Namiki , Imawari Michio
Published: July 2020

Aim

Lusutrombopag is approved for thrombocytopenia in chronic liver disease patients planned to undergo invasive procedures. In previous clinical studies, lusutrombopag treatment was stopped in patients with an increase in platelet count (PC) of ≥20 × 109/L from baseline and whose PC was ≥50 × 109/L (discontinuation criteria). We assessed the influence of platelet monitoring during lusutrombopag treatment in lusutrombopag‐naïve patients.

Methods

In this open‐label study, Child–Pugh class A and B (A/B) patients were enrolled and treated with lusutrombopag (3 mg/day) for 7 days. In the treatment‐naïve A/B‐1 group, the discontinuation criteria were applied on day 6. In the treatment‐naïve A/B‐2 group, the criteria were not applied. In a non‐naïve A/B group, the criteria were applied on days 3 and 5–7. The main efficacy end‐point was the proportion of patients without platelet transfusion (PT) before the primary invasive procedure.

Results

In the A/B‐1, A/B‐2, and non‐naïve A/B groups, the proportions of patients without PT were 80.9% (38/47), 83.0% (39/47), and 75.0% (6/8), respectively. The mean durations of PC ≥ 50 × 109/L without PT were 20.7, 20.3, and 22.8 days, respectively. Excessive PC increases (≥200 × 109/L) were not detected in any group. Treatment‐related adverse events occurred in 4.3%, 6.4%, and 0% of A/B‐1, A/B‐2, and non‐naïve A/B patients, respectively. Severe portal vein thrombosis occurred in one A/B‐2 patient (PC 75 × 109/L at onset).

Conclusions

No meaningful efficacy and safety differences were observed among the groups with or without discontinuation criteria and the non‐naïve group. These findings support lusutrombopag treatment without platelet monitoring and retreatment with lusutrombopag.
Prevalence of histological features resembling autoimmune pancreatitis in neoplastic pancreas resections
Authors: Chen Lina , Orr Christine E , Wang Tao
Published: July 2020

Aims

Types 1 and 2 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) can mimic pancreatic neoplasia. Due to the small quantity of tissue in mass‐targeted pancreas biopsies, inflammatory features may raise the differential of AIP. However, the frequency of AIP‐like histology in neoplastic pancreas is not well characterised. Therefore, the specificity of inflammatory lesions on biopsy with respect to the diagnosis of AIP is uncertain.

Methods and results

Neoplastic pancreas resections performed at our institution between 2008 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Features of AIP types 1 and 2 were assessed in the non‐neoplastic areas. If features of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4‐associated AIP were seen, IgG4 immunohistochemistry was performed. We identified 163 neoplastic pancreas resections. Of these, 34 had one or more types of inflammatory lesions in non‐neoplastic pancreatic tissue. Dense lymphoplasmacytic inflammation mimicking type 1 AIP was found in six cases with mild to moderately increased IgG4‐positive plasma cells. Neutrophilic infiltrates in small intralobular ducts were found in 20 cases. Mild extralobular ductitis or duct microabscess was found in 10 specimens. Marked neutrophilic duct destruction that resembled granulocytic epithelial lesions was found in 12 cases. Some cases showed multiple features.

Conclusion

Approximately 20% of neoplastic pancreas resections showed focal areas that could raise the differential of AIP. More cases showed neutrophilic predominant inflammation as seen in type 2 autoimmune pancreatitis, compared to dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates seen in type 1 AIP. Pathologists must be cautious when making a diagnosis of AIP on biopsy tissue based on histological findings alone.
Preclinical relevance of probiotics in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review
Authors: Marques Anaísa Martins , Sarandy Mariáurea Matias , Novaes Rômulo Dias , Gonçalves Reggiani Vilela , Freitas Mariella Bontempo
Published: July 2020

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is among the most prevalent metabolic diseases in the world and may result in several long‐term complications. The crosstalk between gut microbiota and host metabolism is closely related to T2DM. Currently, fragmented data hamper defining the relationship between probiotics and T2DM. This systematic review aimed at investigating the effects of probiotics on T2DM in animal models. We systematically reviewed preclinical evidences using PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases, recovering 24 original articles published until September 27th, 2019. This systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. We included experimental studies with animal models reporting the effects of probiotics on T2DM. Studies were sorted by characteristics of publications, animal models, performed analyses, probiotic used and interventions. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined through the SYRCLE's Risk of Bias tool. Probiotics improved T2DM in 96% of the studies. Most studies (96%) used Lactobacillus strains, and all of them led to improved glycaemia. All studies used rodents as models, and male animals were preferred over females. Results suggest that probiotics have a beneficial effect in T2DM animals and could be used as a supporting alternative in the disease treatment. Considering a detailed evaluation of the reporting and methodological quality, the current preclinical evidence is at high risk of bias. We hope that our critical analysis will be useful in mitigating the sources of bias in further studies.
Attitudes of nurses towards clinical information systems: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ferdousi R. , Arab‐Zozani M. , Tahamtan I. , Rezaei‐Hachesu P. , Dehghani M.
Published: July 2020

Aim

This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluates the attitudes of Iranian nurses towards clinical information systems in nursing practice.

Background

Nurses are essential in the successful adoption and implementation of clinical information systems.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science and Farsi databases, to retrieve relevant studies. The methodological quality of the studies is assessed via the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklist for analytical cross‐sectional studies. The random effect model was utilized to analyse the data due to the high heterogeneity in the included studies (n = 17).

Results

Results indicate that clinical information systems impact on at least seven aspects of nursing practice, including documentation, patient safety, quality of treatment, communication, treatment management, nursing tasks and hospital resource management. Results also indicated that one aspect of using clinical information systems in nursing practice is satisfaction with the ‘quality and design of clinical information systems’, such as ease of use and learning, flexibility and software speed.

Conclusion

Clinical information systems can contribute to different aspects of nursing practice. However, their design should improve significantly in order to help nurses perform their professional activities in an efficient and satisfactory manner.

Implications for Nursing Policy

Before the full deployment of clinical information systems, their usability should be tested. In pilot testing, nurses should provide necessary feedback about how well the systems work and improvements needed to meet their professional goals.
BMX tyrosine kinase gene is expressed in granulocytes and myeloid leukaemias
Authors: Kaukonen Jaakko , Lahtinen Isto , Laine Sinikka , Alitalo Kari , Palotie Aarno
Published: July 2020

The growth and maturation of haemopoietic cells is regulated by signal transduction through tyrosine protein kinases. Recently, a novel cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase gene in chromosome X, called Bmx, was identified in human bone marrow RNA. Bmx belongs to a subfamily of tyrosine kinases which are expressed in various haemopoietic cell lineages. We studied Bmx expression using RT‐PCR of RNA from fractionated peripheral blood leucocytes, progenitor‐enriched fractions of cord blood and from bone marrow or peripheral blood samples from leukaemia patients. Bmx was strongly expressed in haemopoietic tissues and enhanced in neutrophilic granulocytes. Bmx mRNA was also found in CD34‐positive progenitor cells from cord blood. All samples (10/10) of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and (4/4) with chronic myeloid leukaemia showed expression of Bmx. In contrast, none of the samples of acute lymphoid leukaemia (0/8) and only one out of six samples of chronic lymphoid leukaemia expressed Bmx. fa conclusion, Bmx expression seems to be associated with myelopoiesis.
White‐coat and masked hypertension diagnoses in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Pereira Henrique , Bonilha Alessandra , Barretti Pasqual , Silva Roberto , Burgugi Vanessa , dos Santos Vanessa , Cuadrado Luis
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to analyze which 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure measurement (ABPM) parameters should be used on masked hypertension (MH) and white‐coat hypertension (WCH) diagnoses in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Non‐dialysis CKD patients underwent 24‐hour ABPM examination between 01/27/2004 and 02/16/2012. They were followed from the 24‐hour ABPM to January/2014 in an observational study. The WCH definitions tested were as follows: (a) office blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140/90 mm Hg and daytime ABPM BP ≤ 135/85 mm Hg (old criterion); and (b) office BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg and 24‐hour ABPM BP ≤ 130/80 mm Hg, daytime ABPM BP ≤ 135/85 mm Hg, and nighttime ABPM BP ≤ 120/70 mm Hg (new criterion). The MH definitions tested were as follows: (a) office BP < 140/90 mm Hg and daytime ABPM BP > 135/85 mm Hg (old criterion); and (b) office BP < 140/90 mm Hg and 24‐hour ABPM BP > 130/80 mm Hg or daytime ABPM BP > 135/85 mm Hg or nighttime ABPM BP > 120/70 mm Hg (new criterion). The two definitions' predictive capacity was compared, regarding both WCH and MH. Cardiovascular mortality was the primary and all‐cause mortality was the secondary outcome. Cox regression was adjusted to the variables: glomerular filtration rate, age, diabetes mellitus, and active smoking. There were 367 patients studied. The old criterion (exclusive mean daytime ABPM BP) was the only to distinguish sustained hypertension from WCH (adjusted HR: 3.730; 95% CI: 1.068‐13.029; P = .039), regarding all‐cause mortality. Additionally, the old criterion was the only one to distinguish normotension and MH, regarding cardiovascular mortality (adjusted HR: 7.641; 95% CI: 1.277‐45.738; P = .026). Therefore, WCH and MH definitions based exclusively on daytime ABPM BP values (old criterion) were able to better distinguish mortality in this studied CKD cohort.
A Recursion‐Based Analytical Approach to Evaluate the Performance of MST
Authors: Lim Hwanggyu , Davey Tim , Wells Craig S.
Published: July 2020

This study proposed a recursion‐based analytical approach to assess measurement precision of ability estimation and classification accuracy in multistage adaptive tests (MSTs). A simulation study was conducted to compare the proposed recursion‐based analytical method with an analytical method proposed by Park, Kim, Chung, and Dodd and with the more commonly used Monte Carlo (MC) simulation approaches. The results from the simulation study indicate that the recursion‐based analytical method produced more stable measurement properties in MST than the MC‐based simulation method. It also produced more credible measurement performance than the analytical approach of Park, Kim, Chung, and Dodd. We expect that the recursion‐based analytical method would be especially efficient in instances when multiple MST designs need to be compared to determine which one has better measurement performance.
Real‐time RT‐qPCR assay to detect sequences in the Piscine orthoreovirus‐1 genome segment S1 associated with heart and skeletal muscle inflammation in Atlantic salmon
Authors: Siah Ahmed , Knutsen Emilie , Richmond Zina , Mills Meghan , Frisch Kathleen , Powell James F. F. , Brevik Øyvind , Duesund Henrik
Published: July 2020

During the last decade, Piscine orthoreovirus was identified as the main causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) in Atlantic Salmon, Norway. A recent study showed that PRV‐1 sequences from salmonid collected in North Atlantic Pacific Coast (NAPC) grouped separately from the Norwegian sequences found in Atlantic Salmon diagnosed with HSMI. Currently, the routine assay used to screen for PRV‐1 in NAPC water and worldwide cannot differentiate between the two groups of PRV‐1. Therefore, this study aimed at developing a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) assay to target the PRV‐1 genome segments specific for variants associated with HSMI. The assay was optimized and tested against 71 tissue samples collected from different regions including Norway, Chile and both coast of Canada and different hosts farmed Atlantic Salmon, wild Coho Salmon and escaped Atlantic Salmon collected in British Columbia, West Coast of Canada. This assay has the potential to be used for screening salmonids and non‐salmonids that may carry PRV‐1 potentially causing HSMI.
The dance of cystic fibrosis: Experiences of living with cystic fibrosis as an adult
Authors: Varilek Brandon M. , Isaacson Mary J.
Published: July 2020

Aims and objectives

This study sought to understand the experience of living with cystic fibrosis (CF) as an adult.

Background

Cystic fibrosis is one of the most difficult chronic diseases to manage long term because of numerous challenges faced on a day‐to‐day basis. The majority of studies focus on improving symptom response to new treatment regimens with the hope of prolonging life. Yet few qualitative studies explore the experience of adults with CF. What is missing from the current literature are the voices of people living with CF, especially as they age.

Design

This study follows a hermeneutic phenomenology design guided by Martin Heidegger's philosophy.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nine adults living with CF. Hermeneutic phenomenology guided the data interpretation. This manuscript follows COREQ reporting guidelines.

Results

Hermeneutic analysis revealed the overarching theme The Dance of Cystic Fibrosis which is supported by five themes: (a) the paradox of control, (b) living deaths, (c) dancing with death, (d) relearning to dance, and (e) role of the dance partner.

Conclusions

The experience of living with CF as an adult is multidimensional and unique to each person. Despite the uniqueness, there is a shared experience that manifested as The Dance of Cystic Fibrosis. As life expectancy continues to increase for persons with CF, it is essential that researchers and healthcare professionals intentionally consider the life‐prolonging effects of the treatment regimen alongside the persons’ experience with those effects.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses at all levels of practice should be prepared to address the multifaceted experience of living with CF through thoughtful incorporation of open‐ended questions. This allows patients to share their experience with nurses, augmenting their practice of delivering holistic care.
Technology Choice and Coalition Formation in Standards Wars
Authors: Llanes Gastón , Poblete Joaquín
Published: July 2020

We study the efficiency of the standard‐setting process when standards result from competition between groups of firms sponsoring different technologies. We show that ex ante agreements may decrease welfare in the case of standards wars: Even though industry profits are larger with ex ante agreements, welfare is not necessarily larger, because the interests of firms and society may not be aligned. This result contrasts with the findings of previous works studying de jure monopoly standards. Including adopters in the standard‐setting process may restore the efficiency of ex ante agreements.
Forward Contracts, Market Structure and the Welfare Effects of Mergers
Authors: Miller Nathan H. , Podwol Joseph U.
Published: July 2020

We examine how forward contracts affect economic outcomes under generalized market structures. In the model, forward contracts discipline the exercise of market power by making profit less sensitive to changes in output. This impact is greatest in markets with intermediate levels of concentration. Mergers reduce the use of forward contracts in equilibrium and, in markets that are sufficiently concentrated, this amplifies the adverse effects on consumer surplus. Additional analyses of merger profitability and collusion are provided. Throughout, we illustrate and extend the theoretical results using Monte Carlo simulations. We discuss the practical relevance for antitrust enforcement.
Effect of a Standardized Training with Digital Evaluation on the Improvement of Prosthodontic Faculty's Performance in Crown Preparation: A Pre‐Post Design
Authors: Xu Xiaoxiang , Xie Qiufei , Zhou Yongsheng , Wu Lei , Cao Ye
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Standardized crown preparation is an important competency for prosthodontic faculty especially when they take on the dual role of clinician and clinical teacher. Effects of faculty training for enhancing crown preparation competency are seldom reported. This study aimed to analyze the impact of a standardized training workshop with digital evaluation on the dental faculty's performance in crown preparation.

Materials and Methods

The digitally evaluated grades of anterior (the maxillary right central incisor) and posterior (the mandibular left first molar) tooth preparations made by 76 participants who accomplished all six training tasks were collected, including off‐site and on‐site exercises before the didactic lecture and live demonstration, three rounds of practices with digital feedback, and a final test. Grades of preparations performed in the on‐site exercise were adopted as pre‐training scores, and those in the final test as post‐training scores. Total scores and marks deducted for the parameters including amount of reduction, margin line, and taper were compared among each training task.

Results

The post‐training scores of both anterior and posterior tooth preparations increased significantly more than the pre‐training scores. The average increased score proportion was 22.95% ± 4.17% for anterior tooth preparations, and 21.78% ± 3.68% for posterior tooth preparations. For anterior tooth preparations, total scores and the parameters except taper significantly improved in the first practice and maintained the same level for the next sessions. Total scores and all parameters for posterior tooth preparations exhibited continual improvement during the training process.

Conclusion

Standardized training can further improve dental faculty's crown preparation performance in a moderate way. Individual design for crown preparation training can be considered based on different tooth positions. Providing such training will aid the calibration of clinical teaching behavior and the elevation of clinical operative standards for prosthodontic faculty.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in Nursing: Ethics of Caring as a Guide to Dividing Tasks Between AI and Humans
Authors: Stokes Felicia , Palmer Amitabha
Published: July 2020

Nurses have traditionally been regarded as clinicians that deliver compassionate, safe, and empathetic health care (Nurses again outpace other professions for honesty & ethics, 2018). Caring is a fundamental characteristic, expectation, and moral obligation of the nursing and caregiving professions (Nursing: Scope and standards of practice, American Nurses Association, Silver Spring, MD, 2015). Along with caring, nurses are expected to undertake ever‐expanding duties and complex tasks. In part because of the growing physical, intellectual and emotional demandingness, of nursing as well as technological advances, artificial intelligence (AI) and AI care robots are rapidly changing the healthcare landscape. As technology becomes more advanced, efficient, and economical, opportunities and pressure to introduce AI into nursing care will only increase. In the first part of the article, we review recent and existing applications of AI in nursing and speculate on future use. Second, situate our project within the recent literature on the ethics of nursing and AI. Third, we explore three dominant theories of caring and the two paradigmatic expressions of caring (touch and presence) and conclude that AI—at least for the foreseeable future—is incapable of caring in the sense central to nursing and caregiving ethics. We conclude that for AI to be implemented ethically, it cannot transgress the core values of nursing, usurp aspects of caring that can only meaningfully be carried out by human beings, and it must support, open, or improve opportunities for nurses to provide the uniquely human aspects of care.
What factors are associated with obesity‐related health behaviours among child refugees following resettlement in developed countries? A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative and quantitative evidence
Authors: Alsubhi Maha , Goldthorpe Joanna , Epton Tracy , Khanom Sonia , Peters Sarah
Published: July 2020

Refugee children are likely to become less active and eat more unhealthily after their resettlement in developed countries. This review aims to identify and synthesize research about factors that influence unhealthy behaviours related to obesity in this population. Six electronic databases were searched systematically to identify studies that sampled refugee children or parents of refugee children aged 2 to 16 years who have resettled in a developed country. Methodological and cultural study quality was assessed and factors associated with obesity‐related health behaviours investigated. Twenty studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Five major themes, representing factors influencing health behaviours, were identified from the data synthesis process: Acculturation, Environmental, Socioeconomic, Cognitive, and Family. The analysis revealed that refugee's health behaviours are influenced by several complex factors that are common to immigrant groups but have a greater influence among refugees. The review also revealed parental practices influence the health behaviours of children, especially those aged 2 to 10 years. Research is needed to understand further the role that parents have in influencing health behaviours and weight trajectories of children following resettlement.
Regeneration using endogenous neural stem cells following neonatal brain injury
Authors: Jinnou Hideo
Published: July 2020

Despite recent advancements in perinatal care, the incidence of neonatal brain injury has not decreased. No therapies are currently available to repair injured brain tissues. In the postnatal brain, neural stem cells reside in the ventricular‐subventricular zone (V‐SVZ) and continuously generate new immature neurons (neuroblasts). After brain injury in rodents, V‐SVZ‐derived neuroblasts migrate toward the injured area using blood vessels as a scaffold. Notably, the neonatal V‐SVZ has a remarkable neurogenic capacity. Furthermore, compared with the adult brain, after neonatal brain injury, larger numbers of neuroblasts migrate toward the lesion, raising the possibility that the V‐SVZ could be a source for endogenous neuronal regeneration after neonatal brain injury. We recently demonstrated that efficient migration of V‐SVZ‐derived neuroblasts toward a lesion is supported by neonatal radial glia via neural cadherin (N‐cadherin)‐mediated neuron‐fiber contact, which promotes RhoA activity. Moreover, providing blood vessel‐ and radial glia‐mimetic scaffolds for migrating neuroblasts promotes neuronal migration and improves functional gait behaviors after neonatal brain injury. In the V‐SVZ, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are also generated and migrate toward the surrounding white matter, where they differentiate and form myelin. After white matter injury in rodents, the production and subsequent migration of V‐SVZ‐derived OPCs are enhanced. In the neonatal period, administration of growth factors at a specific time promotes oligodendrocyte regeneration and functional recovery after brain injury. These findings suggest that activating the high regenerative capacity that is specific to the neonatal period could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for neonatal brain injury.
The effect of maize–alfalfa intercropping on the physiological characteristics, nitrogen uptake and yield of maize
Authors: Nasar J. , Shao Z. , Arshad A. , Jones F. G. , Liu S. , Li C. , Khan M. Z. , Khan T. , Banda J. S. K. , Zhou X. , Gao Q.
Published: July 2020

In Northeastern China, the intensive cropping system and increased use of chemical fertilizer has caused severe problems in terms of sustainable agricultural development. Therefore, to improve agricultural sustainability and crop productivity the farming system needs to be modified in the region.

A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of maize–alfalfa intercropping on the physiological characteristics, nitrogen (N) uptake and yield of the maize crops in northeast China in 2017–2018.

The study findings showed that intercropping under N fertilization progressively improved the physio‐agronomic indices of the maize crop as compared to mono‐cropping. The grain yield, 100 seed weight and biomass dry matter of maize crop improved in intercropping when it was practiced with N fertilizer. Furthermore, intercropping with N fertilization increased the chlorophyll content of the maize crop at bell‐mouthed, silking, filing and mature stages by 19%, 44%, 12%, and 9% in 2017 and by 23%, 43%, 15%, and 11% in 2018, respectively, as compared with the monocropping system. Unlike monocropping, intercropping with N fertilization increased the photosynthesis rate (14% and 15%), stomatal conductance (74% and 98%) and transpiration rate (74% and 75%) in 2017 and 2018, respectively. However, intercropping reduced intercellular CO2 (Ci). Moreover, intercropping with N fertilization increased the maize N content of grain and leaves as well as total N uptake by 49%, 31% and 93% in 2017 and 53%, 34% and 132%, respectively, in 2018 as compared to monocropping.

In conclusion, our results suggest that maize–alfalfa intercropping with optimal N fertilization provides a practical method for improving growth, yield and N accumulation in the maize crop.
Estimating Listeria monocytogenes Growth in Ready‐to‐Eat Chicken Salad Using a Challenge Test for Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment
Authors: Bernardo Rita , Barreto António Salvador , Nunes Telmo , Henriques Ana Rita
Published: July 2020

Currently, there is a growing preference for convenience food products, such as ready‐to‐eat (RTE) foods, associated with long refrigerated shelf‐lives, not requiring a heat treatment prior to consumption. Because Listeria monocytogenes is able to grow at refrigeration temperatures, inconsistent temperatures during production, distribution, and at consumer's household may allow for the pathogen to thrive, reaching unsafe limits. L. monocytogenes is the causative agent of listeriosis, a rare but severe human illness, with high fatality rates, transmitted almost exclusively by food consumption. With the aim of assessing the quantitative microbial risk of L. monocytogenes in RTE chicken salads, a challenge test was performed. Salads were inoculated with a three‐strain mixture of cold‐adapted L. monocytogenes and stored at 4, 12, and 16 °C for eight days. Results revealed that the salad was able to support L. monocytogenes’ growth, even at refrigeration temperatures. The Baranyi primary model was fitted to microbiological data to estimate the pathogen's growth kinetic parameters. Temperature effect on the maximum specific growth rate (μmax) was modeled using a square‐root‐type model. Storage temperature significantly influenced μmax of L. monocytogenes (p < 0.05). These predicted growth models for L. monocytogenes were subsequently used to develop a quantitative microbial risk assessment, estimating a median number of 0.00008726 listeriosis cases per year linked to the consumption of these RTE salads. Sensitivity analysis considering different time–temperature scenarios indicated a very low median risk per portion (<−7 log), even if the assessed RTE chicken salad was kept in abuse storage conditions.
What has New Zealand gained from The FTA with China?: Two counterfactual analyses†
Authors: Verevis Samuel , Üngör Murat
Published: July 2020

We investigate the effects of the 2008 New Zealand (NZ)–China free trade agreement (FTA) on exports from NZ to China, and real GDP per capita in NZ using the synthetic control method to estimate the counterfactuals. NZ exports to China were more than 200% higher in 2014 than what they would have had the FTA never been signed. NZ's food and live animals exports to China were more than 180% higher in 2014 than the counterfactual. Our counterfactuals indicate a small but negative effect of the FTA on NZ's real GDP per capita between 2009 and 2012.
Simplified indices of exercise tolerance in patients with multiple sclerosis and healthy subjects: A case‐control study
Authors: Valet Maxime , Stoquart Gaëtan , de Broglie Clémence , Francaux Marc , Lejeune Thierry
Published: July 2020

Among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), the impairment of exercise tolerance is closely related to disability. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is the gold standard to assess exercise tolerance in healthy subjects (HS). Among patients with MS, the accuracy of VO2max measurement is often impaired because the patients are unable to reach the maximal exercise intensity due to interdependent factors linked to the disease (such as pathological fatigue, pain, lack of exercise habit, and lack of mobility). This study assesses the accuracy of simplified indices for assessing exercise tolerance, which are more suitable in patients with MS. They are simple in the way they are either measurable during submaximal exercise (oxygen uptake efficiency slopes (OUES), physical working capacity at 75% of maximal heart rate (PWC75%), oxygen consumption at a respiratory exchange ratio of 1 (VO2@RER1)) or not based on gas exchange analysis (peak work rate (PWR)‐based predictive equation and PWC75%). All indices were significantly lower in the MS group compared to the HS group (P < .001). OUES appeared highly correlated (r > .70, P < .001) with VO2peak, in both groups, without difference between groups. PWR‐based prediction of VO2peak showed a standard error of the estimate of 315 mL min−1 in HS and 176 mL min−1 in MS. PWC75% did not correlate to VO2peak in neither group. These findings suggest an impairment of exercise tolerance functions in mildly disabled persons with MS, independently from other factors. Submaximal indices involving gas exchange analysis or peakWR‐based estimation of VO2peak are usable to accurately assess exercise tolerance.
Beyond Coronativism: The Need For Agape
Authors: van Uden Annelies , van Houtum Henk
Published: July 2020

In this contribution we focus on togetherness, as one of the key notions in the current COVID‐19 crisis. Globally, it is seen as vital to stand and act together to combat the virus, and avoid a tragedy of the commons, in which actors are acting out of self‐interest and counterproductively to the general interest. In this essay we analyse the current geographical dissonant developments that the required human togetherness across the globe is facing. We find that the main conflicting tendencies, that we summarise as utilitarian locking up, nationalistic locking in and exclusionary locking out, are all employing a notion of togetherness which is largely based on an in‐group solidarity based on either age, gender, ethnicity, nationality or fitness. We argue that such narrow definition of togetherness falls short in dealing with the crisis in an effective as well as non‐discriminatory manner, and potentially could even lengthen or worsen the corona crisis. We end with a plea for a different conceptualisation of solidarity in the combat of the crisis, a radical non‐dividing form of togetherness: agape.
T‐cell adoptive immunotherapy for BK nephropathy in renal transplantation
Authors: Jahan Sadia , Scuderi Carla , Francis Leo , Neller Michelle A , Rehan Sweera , Crooks Pauline , Ambalathingal George R , Smith Corey , Khanna Rajiv , John George T.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

BK virus (BKPyV) nephropathy occurs in 1%‐10% of kidney transplant recipients, with suboptimal therapeutic options.

Case

A 54‐year‐old woman received a transplant in March 2017. BKPyV was detected at 1.5 × 102 copies/mL within a month, necessitating halving of mycophenolate and addition of leflunomide. Allograft histology in December showed polyomavirus nephropathy treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and cessation of mycophenolate. In February 2018, cidofovir and ciprofloxacin were commenced. In April, tacrolimus was reduced while introducing everolimus. A second graft biopsy in August showed increasing polyoma virus infection and a subsequent biopsy in September for worsening renal function showed 30% of tubular reactivity for simian virus 40 (SV40). Allogeneic BKPyV‐reactive T cells were generated from the patient's daughter and infused over 10 sessions starting late September. The fourth allograft biopsy in November 2018 demonstrated involvement of BKPyV in 50% of tubules. Allograft function continued to decline, requiring hemodialysis from December 2018. Allograft nephrectomy after 6 months showed <1% SV40 in preserved tubules and 80% interstitial fibrosis.

Discussion

We conclude that the T‐cell adoptive immunotherapy reduced BKPyV load significantly despite extensive infection, but attendant fibrosis and tubular atrophy led to graft failure. Early intervention with T‐cell therapy may prove efficacious in BKPyV nephropathy.
Glaucoma‐associated pain results in mechanical sensitivity changes in dogs: A pilot study
Authors: Zibura Ashley E. , Salmon Jacklyn H. , Belda Lopez Beatriz , X. Lascelles B. Duncan , Westermeyer Hans D.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To explore the effects of chronic, uncontrolled glaucoma on pressure sensitivity in dogs before and after enucleation of the painful globe.

Methods

Client‐owned dogs undergoing enucleation for chronic glaucoma with no other sources of pain were enrolled. Normal dogs of similar breeds and skull morphology were enrolled as controls. Craniofacial ratio (CFR) and relative palpebral fissure width (RPFW) were assessed in all patients. Serial mechanical quantitative sensory testing (QST) was performed the day before surgery, and 14, 30, 60, and 120 days after surgery. QST consisted of electronic Von Frey (eVF), and blunt algometry (BA) performed above and below the nonglaucomatous eye, the metacarpus, and metatarsus. Cochet‐Bonnet esthesiometry (CB) was also performed on the remaining eye.

Results

Twelve dogs (6 per group) were included. Compared to baseline values, sensitivity tended to decrease over time (increased thresholds) in treatment dogs while it stayed constant or increased slightly in control dogs. The difference in change from baseline sensitivity between control and treatment groups was significant at day 120 using BA at supraorbital (P = .0153), infraorbital (P = .0209), and metacarpal sites (P = .007) and overall (P = .0470). This divergence was also significant using CB (P = .0470) on the opposite cornea. As patient CFR and RPFWV increased, both eVF (P = .005‐.023) and BA (P = .004‐.041) increased.

Conclusions

Sensitivity to mechanical stimuli decreased both locally and at remote sites in dogs following enucleation for painful chronic glaucoma. Cranial conformation is associated with differences in sensitivity.
Aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate community responses to drying in chalk streams
Authors: Bunting George , England Judy , Gething Kieran , Sykes Tim , Webb Jon , Stubbington Rachel
Published: July 2020

Temporary streams are dynamic ecosystems that shift between wet and dry states and include the ‘winterbourne’ chalk streams of south England. Our understanding of temporary stream biodiversity is biased, with most research to date exploring aquatic invertebrate communities in benthic sediments during flowing phases. We surveyed the invertebrate communities of the Candover Brook chalk stream, comparing aquatic (benthic, hyporheic) and terrestrial communities in reaches with different flow permanence regimes. We used kick and Bou–Rouch sampling methods to collect aquatic invertebrates, and compared the terrestrial communities characterised by pitfall traps and ground searches and in different seasons. Although aquatic taxa richness was lower in temporary compared to perennial reaches, the total biodiversity of temporary stream channels was enhanced by contributions from both aquatic and terrestrial species, including several of conservation interest. We recommend that both aquatic and terrestrial communities should be considered in research and monitoring to characterise the biodiversity and ecological quality of temporary streams.
Innovative Flipped Classroom Approach for TESL Subjects: From Students’ Perspective
Authors: Shean Yin Chu , Md. Yusof Masdinah Alauyah
Published: July 2020

The importance of active learning and higher order thinking skills among students at higher learning institutions have steered lecturers to employ the flipped classroom approach in their classes. The move is hoped to assist students to become active recipients of knowledge and break away from the traditional learning method where knowledge is only imparted by lecturers. A study was conducted to investigate: (1) the TESL students’ ability to research and present their findings related to a teaching method via group posters when the flipped classroom approach is utilized in their Methodology in TESL 1 subject, and (2) their views on the feasibility of using flipped classroom approach for other TESL subjects. This study had adopted the mixed method approach in which an interview guide was used to address the first research question and a questionnaire was used to address the second research question. From the interview, it is found that majority of the TESL students had managed to research the teaching method assigned to them, had understood what they were reading, and were able to present the teaching method in the form of a poster. From the questionnaire data, it was found that majority of the TESL students agreed the flipped classroom approach can be implemented for other TESL subjects although a few of them felt that it might only be suitable for certain topics or subtopics as they were afraid of inaccurate knowledge being transferred if there is no proper guidance from the lecturer. Nevertheless, for this study, it can be concluded that the flipped classroom approach had enhanced the students’ understanding of the given topic, and it is feasible for other TESL subjects.
An Analysis of Whatsapp Emoji in Business Interactions between a Malaysian SME and the Turkish Counterparts
Authors: Kahar Rohayah , Habil Hadina
Published: July 2020

Social media usage such as Twitter, Whatsapp, and Instagram are widely used by individuals around the globe. Entrepreneurs are among those who use social media as their platforms in selling and marketing their items. Particularly in WhatsApp communication, there are various functions of emoji in social networking that offer various messaging features. The purposes of this study were to identify the usage of emoji in WhatsApp business interactions and to types of emoji employed among Malaysian Small and Medium enterprises (SME) and his Turkish counterparts. This study used Content Analysis to make interpretations about the emoji found in conversational messages between the entrepreneurs in their business interactions. The findings revealed that the Malaysian participant was more technology savvy when it came to the use of emoji compared to his Turkish business counterparts. Thus, the WhatsApp emoji provides a non-verbal communication and other functions in business interaction. Based on the findings, this study recommends that the use of emoji should be encouraged among entrepreneurs and customers to create a cheerful and customer-friendly atmosphere. Additionally, WhatsApp features should be used by both businesses and consumers to promote business processes and help readers understand the meaning of their communications.
Analisis Penggunaan Kata Sendi Nama dalam Penulisan Berdasarkan Teori Kesalahan Bahasa / Analysis of Preposition in Writing Based on the Theory of Language Error
Authors: Mohd Rusli Nur Farahkhanna , Nor Azman Nor Ain
Published: July 2020

This paper aims to explain the misuse of prepositions among students in writing based on Error Analysis Theory (Corder, 1981). The data of the study were obtained through literature-based and observation methods with the help of instruments included questionnaire form. The respondents of this study consist of 20 form 2 students at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Seri Manjung, Manjung, Perak. The findings of this study shows that the level of mastery of students in the use of prepositions is at satisfactory level. Students are found to be confused with the functions of the prepositions ‘dari’ and ‘daripada’ when both if them used in sentences. This study is an effort to improve the mastery of Malay speakers, especially in prepositions.
Formulation of a novel HRV classification model as a surrogate fraudulence detection schema
Authors: Swee Tan Tian , Chia Hiik Kelvin Ling , Hou Tan Jia , Kah Meng Leong , Abdul-Kadir Mohammed Rafiq , A. Harris Arief Ruhullah , Mohd Rafi Muhamad Firdaus , Bodey Leo , Cheng Tay Yii , Yahya Azli , Sin Yin Joyce Sia , Foh Thye Matthias Tiong , Tengku Alang Tengku Ahmad Iskandar , Ahmed Malik Sameen
Published: July 2020

Lie detection has been studied since a few decades ago, usually for the purpose of producing a scheme to assist in the investigation of identifying the culprit from a list of suspects. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) may be used as a method in lie detection due to its versatility and suitability. However, since its analysis is not instantaneous, a new experiment is described in this paper to overcome the problem. Additionally, a preliminary HRV classification model is designed to further enhance the classification model which is able to distinguish the lie from the truth for up to 80%.