bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building back better: Imagining an occupational therapy for a post‐COVID‐19 world
Authors: Whalley Hammell Karen
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic, which has disrupted occupations and lives of people around the world, has simultaneously exposed deeply rooted social inequities and structural injustices that have negated the facile claim that “we're all in this together.” But the pandemic has also opened up opportunities to imagine other ways of living and doing in the future. This paper imagines some possibilities for shaping occupational therapy's future practices and seeks to illustrate why it is both timely and necessary to re‐imagine occupational therapy in 2021.

Methods

Drawing from epidemiological research, the paper explores the inequitable impacts of COVID‐19, environmental degradation, and multiple social determinants on people's real opportunities for health, wellbeing, and occupational engagement.

Findings

Evidence presented in this paper challenges occupational therapy's individualised approach towards wellbeing and contests the limited parameters of occupations “that matter” that are prioritised and promoted within the profession. In response, the paper seeks to expose the specific, political, economic, and ableist ideology that has effectively shaped the occupational therapy profession's assumptions, models, theories, and the practices these inform.

Conclusion

Drawing from the “Build back better” approach to post‐disaster recovery—with its dual attentions to wellbeing, equity, and inclusivity and to physical, social, cultural, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities—this paper imagines an occupational therapy for a post‐COVID‐19 world; an occupational therapy that takes seriously the premise that occupations and people are inseparable from their environments; a profession that no longer colludes in individualising problems that are inherently social or in depoliticising the systemic social and economic inequalities that create stress and illness; an occupational therapy that no longer promotes the values of neoliberal ableism; and an occupational therapy dedicated to expanding people's just and equitable opportunities to engage in meaningful occupations that contribute positively to their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of their communities.
Chemometric analysis on ATR‐FT‐IR spectra of spray paint samples for forensic purposes
Authors: Sharma Sweety , Chophi Rito , Kaur Charanjeet , Singh Rajinder
Published: July 2021

Forensic investigation of cases involving spray paints requires comparison of paint such as those recovered from graffiti with the references sample seized from the suspect's possession site. This study describes the use of Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR‐FT‐IR) spectroscopy for nondestructive analysis of 20 red spray paints of different manufactures, which could be encountered at a crime scene, particularly in case of vandalism. Spray paints could be encountered on a number of different substrates, and therefore, the samples were placed on simulated substrates and were analyzed in order to check the effect of substrates on sample analysis. Results showed that all samples could be successfully differentiated using ATR‐FT‐IR spectroscopy assisted with principal component analysis. Analysis of spray paints on a paper and fabric substrate resulted in poor spectra and hampered the comparative examination between the spray paint deposited on fabric/paper surface and the control sample. In case of sample deposited on cemented wall, the substrate got scraped out along with the sample and caused interferences in the spectrum. On the other hand, for sample deposited on the floor, gloves, metal, plastic, leather shoes, tile, wood, and hair substrates, all the significant peaks were observed to be present and hence it was concluded that comparative studies can be done between neat spray paint and spray paint deposited on the aforesaid substrates. Additionally, blind validation test was conducted and it resulted in linking the blind samples with the source or origin with 100% accuracy.
Fatal intracranial hemorrhage due to infantile acute lymphoblastic leukemia mimicking abusive head trauma
Authors: Unuma Kana , Makino Yohsuke , Yamamoto Kouhei , Hattori Shinya , Arai Nobutaka , Sakai Kentaro , Kitagawa Masanobu , Uemura Koichi , Kanegane Hirokazu
Published: July 2021

We report the case of a 2‐month‐old infant who was found moribund in her crib. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) was performed before autopsy. As the baby had a severe subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and encephalopathy on PMCT, abusive head trauma (AHT) was tentatively diagnosed. At autopsy, no scalp hemorrhages or skull fractures were found; however, the classic triad of AHT was present, mainly on the right side. Additionally, there was dark red discoloration around the heart, and the liver, spleen, and pancreas were enlarged. Peripheral blood was macroscopically cloudy with marked leukocytosis. After careful histological examination, B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was diagnosed. All the macroscopic lesions could be attributed to ALL. The manner of death was natural. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of infantile ALL mimicking AHT on PMCT images. This case demonstrates the importance of a comprehensive systematic approach to considering differential diagnosis when PMCT shows multiple intracranial hemorrhages suggestive of AHT in an infant.
Comparative analyses of the venom components in the salivary gland transcriptomes and saliva proteomes of some heteropteran insects
Authors: Yoon Kyungjae Andrew , Kim Woo‐Jin , Lee Seungki , Yang Hee‐Sun , Lee Byoung‐Hee , Lee Si Hyeock
Published: July 2021

Salivary gland‐specific transcriptomes of nine heteropteran insects with distinct feeding strategies (predaceous, hematophagous, and phytophagous) were analyzed and annotated to compare and identify the venom components as well as their expression profiles. The transcriptional abundance of venom genes was verified via quantitative real‐time PCR. Hierarchical clustering of 30 representative differentially expressed venom genes from the nine heteropteran species revealed unique groups of salivary gland‐specific genes depending on their feeding strategy. The commonly transcribed genes included a paralytic neurotoxin (arginine kinase), digestive enzymes (cathepsin and serine protease), an anti‐inflammatory protein (cystatin), hexamerin, and an odorant binding protein. Both predaceous and hematophagous (bed bug) heteropteran species showed relatively higher transcription levels of genes encoding proteins involved in proteolysis and cytolysis, whereas phytophagous heteropterans exhibited little or no expression of these genes, but had a high expression of vitellogenin, a multifunctional allergen. Saliva proteomes from four representative species were also analyzed. All venom proteins identified via saliva proteome analysis were annotated using salivary gland transcriptome data. The proteomic expression profiles of venom proteins were in good agreement with the salivary gland‐specific transcriptomic profiles. Our results indicate that profiling of the salivary gland transcriptome provides important information on the composition and evolutionary features of venoms depending on their feeding strategy.
Revisiting the sex pheromone of the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, a new invasive pest in South China
Authors: Jiang Nan‐Ji , Mo Bao‐Tong , Guo Hao , Yang Jun , Tang Rui , Wang Chen‐Zhu
Published: July 2021

The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda is a worldwide serious agricultural pest, and recently invaded South China. Sex pheromone can be employed to monitor its population dynamics accurately in the field. However, the pheromone components previously reported by testing different geographic populations and strains are not consistent. On the basis of confirming that the S. frugiperda population from Yunnan Province belonged to the corn strain, we analyzed the potential sex pheromone components in the pheromone gland extracts of females using gas chromatography coupled with electroantennographic detection (GC‐EAD), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and electroantennography (EAG). The results show that (Z)‐9‐tetradecenal acetate (Z9‐14:Ac), (Z)‐11‐hexadecenyl acetate (Z11‐16:Ac), (Z)‐7‐dodecenyl acetate (Z7‐12:Ac) or (E)‐7‐dodecenyl acetate (E7‐12:Ac) with a ratio of 100 : 15.8 : 3.9 induced EAD responses to varying degrees: Z9‐14:Ac elicited a strong EAD response, Z7‐12:Ac or E7‐12:Ac elicited a small but clear EAD response, while Z11‐16:Ac elicited a weak EAD response. Further single sensillum recording (SSR) showed that Z9‐14:Ac and Z7‐12:Ac induced dose‐dependent activities in two types (A and B) of sensilla in male antennae, respectively, while the sensilla in response to E7‐12:Ac and Z11‐16:Ac was not recorded. Finally, wind tunnel tests reveal that Z9‐14:Ac and Z7‐12:Ac are two principal sex pheromone components of the tested population.
Overexpression of BCCIP predicts an unfavorable prognosis and promotes the proliferation and migration of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shi Jie , Lv Xin , Li Wei , Ming Zongjuan , Zeng Lizhong , Yuan Jingyan , Chen Yang , Liu Boxuan , Yang Shuanying
Published: July 2021

Background

Lung cancer accounts for the highest rate of cancer‐related diagnosis and mortality. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common histopathological type. BCCIP was originally identified as a BRCA2 and CDKN1A interacting protein. In different cancers, BCCIP plays different roles. The role of BCCIP in LUAD is still unknown.

Methods

The expression and prognostic value of BCCIP was analyzed using public databases, including LCE, GEPIA, TCGA, and clinical specimens. Bioinformatic analysis and vitro experiments were conducted to explore the biological functions of BCCIP in LUAD. By using the GEPIA and TIMER databases, we investigated the correlations between LUAD expression and immune infiltration in LUAD.

Results

Compared with normal tissue, LUAD tissue had a higher expression level of BCCIP and high expression level of BCCIP was detrimental to LUAD patient survival. The suppression of BCCIP inhibited LUAD cell proliferation, migration and resulted in G1/S phase arrest in vitro. Bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that BCCIP could be associated with cell cycle, DNA repair and E2F transcription factor family. There were significant correlations between BCCIP expression and immune infiltrates, including B cell, CD4+ T cell, macrophage, neutrophil and dendritic cells. Furthermore, BCCIP expression showed strong correlations with diverse immune marker sets in LUAD, such as B cell, macrophage and DC.

Conclusions

Overexpression of BCCIP predicts an unfavorable prognosis and promotes the proliferation and migration of lung adenocarcinoma cells. BCCIP is correlated with immune infiltration in LUAD. Suppression of BCCIP may be a potential approach in the prevention and treatment of LUAD.
Meta‐analysis of primary producer amino acid δ15N values and their influence on trophic position estimation
Authors: Ramirez Matthew D. , Besser Alexi C. , Newsome Seth D. , McMahon Kelton W.
Published: July 2021

Compound‐specific stable isotope analysis of individual amino acids (CSIA‐AA) has emerged as a transformative approach to estimate consumer trophic positions (TPCSIA) that are internally indexed to primary producer nitrogen isotope baselines. Central to accurate TPCSIA estimation is an understanding of beta (β) values—the differences between trophic and source AA δ15N values in the primary producers at the base of a consumers’ food web. Growing evidence suggests higher taxonomic and tissue‐specific β value variability than typically appreciated.

This meta‐analysis fulfils a pressing need to comprehensively evaluate relevant sources of β value variability and its contribution to TPCSIA uncertainty. We first synthesized all published primary producer AA δ15N data to investigate ecologically relevant sources of variability (e.g. taxonomy, tissue type, habitat type, mode of photosynthesis). We then reviewed the biogeochemical mechanisms underpinning AA δ15N and β value variability. Lastly, we evaluated the sensitivity of TPCSIA estimates to uncertainty in mean βGlx‐Phe values and Glx‐Phe trophic discrimination factors (TDFGlx‐Phe).

We show that variation in βGlx‐Phe values is two times greater than previously considered, with degree of vascularization, not habitat type (terrestrial vs. aquatic), providing the greatest source of variability (vascular autotroph = −6.6 ± 3.4‰; non‐vascular autotroph = +3.3 ± 1.8‰). Within vascular plants, tissue type secondarily contributed to βGlx‐Phe value variability, but we found no clear distinction among C3, C4 and CAM plant βGlx‐Phe values. Notably, we found that vascular plant βGlx‐Lys values (+2.5 ± 1.6‰) are considerably less variable than βGlx‐Phe values, making Lys a useful AA tracer of primary production sources in terrestrial systems. Our multi‐trophic level sensitivity analyses demonstrate that TPCSIA estimates are highly sensitive to changes in both βGlx‐Phe and TDFGlx‐Phe values but that the relative influence of β values dissipates at higher trophic levels.

Our results highlight that primary producer β values are integral to accurate trophic position estimation. We outline four key recommendations for identifying, constraining and accounting for β value variability to improve TPCSIA estimation accuracy and precision moving forward. We must ultimately expand libraries of primary producer AA δ15N values to better understand the mechanistic drivers of β value variation.
Does Conjoint Analysis Reliably Value Patents?
Authors: Chao Bernard , Donovan Sydney
Published: July 2021

Modern technology products are often covered by thousands of patents. Yet awards for a single component have averaged a surprisingly high 9.98% of the infringing product's price. To curb such disproportionate awards, the law insists that damages reflect the contribution made by the patent. But determining how to apportion damages in this way has proved to be elusive. One emerging technique that appears to offer rigor is conjoint analysis, a type of survey borrowed from the marketing world. This article explores the validity of the conjoint analysis technique by running two conjoint analysis surveys. Unfortunately, we found serious problems. First, the results of our surveys yielded irrationally high numbers. Most survey features suffered from bizarrely high valuations. Second, we demonstrate how experts can manipulate the results by selecting among a number of different ostensibly reasonable statistical choices and picking the one that yields the most desirable outcome. Based on these findings, we provide several recommendations. First, we argue that courts should not allow evidence of conjoint analysis to show the monetary value of specific features. However, we recognize that there is support for using conjoint analysis to provide relative valuations (i.e., feature A is worth significantly more than feature B). To the extent that courts permit this use, we suggest ways to ensure that experts employ the best science available. These recommendations include assuring that experts accurately depict variability in their results and requiring experts to “preregister” the approach they intend to use with the court.
Damages for Breach of a Forum Selection Clause
Authors: Monestier Tanya J.
Published: July 2021

When a party breaches a forum selection clause, a court will normally dismiss the action, therefore forcing the breaching party to re‐file in the appropriate forum, or the court will transfer the proceedings to the chosen court. Either way, the nonbreaching party appears to have gotten what he wanted: litigation to proceed before the designated court. However, to get there, the nonbreaching party had to outlay significant expenditures in the form of attorneys' fees. Are these attorneys' fees recoverable as damages? Should they be?

This Article argues that attorneys' fees associated with remedying a breach of a forum selection clause should be recoverable as damages flowing from the breach. Without the prospect of having to pay damages, the breaching party would be permitted to breach a forum selection clause with impunity. In other words, there is no downside to breaching a forum selection clause. Best case scenario, the non‐designated court retains jurisdiction; worst case scenario, the breaching party is “sent” to the contractually‐designated forum.

Awarding attorneys' fees for breach of a forum selection clause does not run afoul of the American Rule, which requires each side to bear their own costs and attorneys' fees. This is because attorneys' fees for breach of a forum selection clause are a measure of direct damages—and not consequential damages—and therefore do not implicate the American Rule.
Poaching is directly and indirectly driving the decline of South Africa's large population of white rhinos
Authors: Nhleko Zoliswa N. , Ahrens Robert , Ferreira Sam M. , McCleery Robert A.
Published: July 2021

Large herbivores, particularly in water limited systems, are vulnerable to the impacts of poaching (illegal hunting) and human‐induced climate changes. However, we have little understanding of how these processes can reshape their populations. With some rapidly declining populations there is a need to understand the effects of these stressors on populations of vulnerable large herbivores like the white rhino (Ceratotherium simum simum). We developed age‐structured models for the rhino population in Kruger National Park, home to 49% of South Africa’s rhinos. We wanted to determine the relative influence of poaching and climate on the current and future population size and demographics, examine the potential of a dependency effect (the loss of calves from poached females) and quantify the compound effect (loss of future young). Our results indicated that population declines were largely driven by poaching and included a dependency effect. Rainfall had a measurable but smaller influence on rhino populations and had an additive effect; reduced rainfall exacerbated poaching losses. Current poaching levels have resulted in a reduction to the lifetime reproductive output per cow from approximately 6 to 0.7 calves: a compound effect of 5.3 future offspring. Under current levels of poaching, we project a 35% decline in the Kruger rhino population in the next 10 years. However, if poaching intensity is cut in half, we project a doubling of the current population over the same time frame. Overall, our models showed little sensitivity to demographic and environmental parameters, except for adult survival. Our results suggest that maintaining and improving the lifetime reproductive output of rhino cows should thus be the highest management priority and that new management targets should consider both the dependency and compound effects associated with poaching on rhino cows.
Industriousness and divergence: Living standards, housework and the Japanese diet in comparative historical perspective
Authors: Francks Penelope
Published: July 2021

Quantitative comparisons of living standards across Eurasia continue to conclude that the eastern side of the “great divergence,” including Japan, lagged behind the leading regions of Europe from early‐modern times onwards. The “industrious revolution” model attributes this to the early spread in Europe of markets for labour and consumer goods. By contrast, in Japan, persistent household self‐sufficiency must have precluded improvements driven by market participation. However, qualitative evidence on the history of the now globally renowned Japanese diet reveals how a different dietary pattern, involving continued household‐based, non‐market production activities, might nonetheless have generated improved living standards, even if these are invisible to quantitative assessment.
The clinicopathologic and operative characteristics of patients with small nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Ha SuHyeon , Song Ki Byung , Hong Sarang , Shin Dakyum , Park Yejong , Kwon Jaewoo , Lee Woohyung , Jun Eunsung , Lee Jae Hoon , Hwang Dae Wook , Kim Song Cheol
Published: July 2021

Background

Incidentally detected, small nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF‐PNETs) are increasingly diagnosed on imaging modalities. This retrospective investigation evaluated the clinicopathologic characteristics and perioperative and oncologic outcomes in patients with small NF‐PNETs undergoing curative resection.

Methods

The medical records of 444 patients who underwent pancreatic resection for NF‐PNETs at a single, large‐volume institution between January 2000 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into those with small (≤2 cm) and large (>2 cm) tumors based on the largest tumor diameter on preoperative computed tomography (CT). Outcomes were also evaluated in subgroups of patients with small NF‐PNET who did and did not undergo lymphadenectomy.

Results

Of the 444 patients with NF‐PNETs, 195 (43.9%) had small (≤2 cm) and 249 (56.1%) had large (>2 cm) NF‐PNETs. The rate of parenchyma‐preserving surgery (14.4% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.014) and the ratio of spleen preservation for left‐sided pancreatectomy (65.6% vs. 38.3%, p < 0.001) were higher in the small NF‐PNET group. Size on CT >2 cm (p < 0.001, hazard ratio [HR]: 5.836, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.474–13.769), presence of perineural invasion (p < 0.001, HR: 3.025, 95% CI: 1.640–5.577), World Health Organization (WHO) Grade 2 (p = 0.007, HR: 2.861, 95% CI: 1.325–6.176), and WHO Grade 3 (p < 0.001, HR: 11.537, 95% CI: 5.282–25.199) were independent predictors of disease‐free survival (DFS). DFS did not differ significantly in patients with small NF‐PNETs who did and did not undergo lymphadenectomy (p = 0.886).

Conclusions

Assessment of long‐term oncologic outcomes suggests that surgical resection may cure small NF‐PNETs. Minimally invasive surgery and organ‐preserving surgery are acceptable treatment options for select patients with small NF‐PNETs. The effect on survival outcomes of lymph node dissection for small NF‐PNETs remains unclear.
Challenges parents encounter when implementing infant safe sleep advice
Authors: Cole Roni , Young Jeanine , Kearney Lauren , Thompson John M. D.
Published: July 2021

Aim

To understand which safe sleep recommendations parents find most challenging to implement, identifying common barriers encountered; and investigate whether challenges are associated with practices employed.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of 3341 Australian families with young infants who birthed a live baby during April–May 2017. Caregivers were asked about infant care practices and family characteristics. Qualitative free‐text items explored challenges faced with current safe sleep recommendations.

Results

Nearly one‐third (n = 1033, 31%) of caregivers reported difficulty with at least one safe sleep recommendation. Infant sleep position and avoiding bed‐sharing were identified as the most challenging recommendations. Caregivers described barriers which influenced consistency in uptake of advice. Families who described difficulty with a recommendation were significantly less likely to consistently employ that advice compared to those who did not report difficulty (sleep position: 198/473,42% vs 2548/2837,90% [p < 0.0001]; own sleep space: (269/344,78% vs 1331/2884,46% [p < 0.0001]). When families encountered challenges, they often proposed alternate strategies with an inference their substitute action compensated potential increased risk.

Conclusion

Many families encounter difficulties implementing safe sleep advice; these challenges negatively impact care practices. Effective interventions meeting individual family needs, to provide safe sleep environments consistently, are necessary to improve sleep‐related infant care and further reduce infant mortality.
Biomed Europa: After the coronavirus, a public infrastructure to overcome the pharmaceutical oligopoly
Authors: Florio Massimo , Gamba Simona
Published: July 2021

After a brief analysis of the causes underlying the failure of both governments and the pharma industry in terms of preparedness for the COVID‐19 pandemic, and after a discussion of further risks of health emergencies in the coming decades, this paper proposes a new public policy approach. The proposal aims at a major European initiative for the provision of research and development (R&D) in the biomedical field, based on public health priorities. A plan is discussed for an international, interconnected, transparent, science‐informed and publicly funded research infrastructure for pharmaceutical and biomedical research combined with a public enterprise: Biomed Europa. The proposed platform aims to identify research priorities in the public health sector, focusing its efforts on the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies against those diseases that will pose the greatest threats to human and social welfare over future decades. Biomed Europa could be managed as both an international research infrastructure, along the model of CERN, or the EMBL (European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg) and as a knowledge‐intensive public enterprise with an industrial policy mission, such as the ESA (European Space Agency).
Searching for a “China model” along the Belt and Road
Authors: Skidmore David
Published: July 2021

While China's own leadership offers their country's economic success as a model for other developing countries, China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is instead promoting a very different path of development. Differences between China's own experience and the BRI path are stark in terms of the timing of infrastructure development, the sources of financing, the political conditions surrounding infrastructure investment and the roles of manufacturing versus commodity exports. Yet the BRI does propagate a particular fragment of China's recent experience: a debt‐development complex featuring crony‐like relationships among policy banks, state‐owned construction firms and local/foreign governments. This nexus of interests promotes a risky and often unsustainable development path. The gap between promise and reality limits China's ability to promote a Sino‐centric world order while also suggesting the need for scholars to more carefully examine the social transmission belts through which great powers export fragments of their own political and economic structures abroad.
How financial institutions can serve the common good of society: Insights from Catholic Social Teaching
Authors: Guitián Gregorio
Published: July 2021

This article addresses the service of financial companies to society from the perspective of the Catholic Social Teaching (hereinafter CST), specifically regarding conflicts of interest between banks and their customers. The article begins with a case based on interviews with professionals in the financial sector, which provides the context for the CST’s contribution. The analysis of the aforementioned conflicts points to an apparent disconnect between service to society and service to customers. Thus, the bank would set aside the customer’s interests in exchange for a better service to society through good results. This article presents the CST’s normative framework to analyze this matter through some of the CST’s principles: the centrality of the person, the respect for her dignity, and the orientation to the common good. These principles and the CST’s ethical concept of service provide guidance in assessing these conflicts of interest. From an ethical point of view and according to CST, there cannot be a true service to society if the dignity of the client is not respected. It is necessary to review the organization’s incentive policy and level of awareness about the importance of customer service. We end with recommendations related to conflicts of interest with clients.
The effectiveness of schema therapy for patients with anxiety disorders, OCD, or PTSD: A systematic review and research agenda
Authors: Peeters Nancy , van Passel Boris , Krans Julie
Published: July 2021

Objectives

We reviewed the evidence regarding the effectiveness of schema therapy for anxiety disorders, obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Methods

This systematic review followed the recommendation of the PRISMA guidelines. A database search (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, WEB OF SCIENCE, and Academic Search Ultimate) was conducted to identify eligible studies up until 2 April 2021. The search included the keywords (‘schema therap*’ or ‘schema group therap*’ or ‘schema mode therap*’ or ‘schema focused’ or ‘young’s model’) and (‘anxiety disorder*’ or ‘anxiety‐related disorder*’ or ‘agoraphobia’ or ‘health anxiety’ or ‘phobi*’ or ‘panic disorder’ or ‘obsessive compulsive disorder’ or ‘OCD’ or ‘posttraumatic stress’ or ‘post traumatic stress’ or ‘PTSD’ or ‘hypochondria’ or ‘axis 1’). Included studies were appraised on methodological quality according to the Psychotherapy Outcome study Methodology Rating Form.

Results

We identified 41 studies that were eligible based on the topic. However, only six (comprising 316 anxiety, OCD, and PTSD patients) could be included despite lenient methodological inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results showed that schema therapy can lead to beneficial effects in disorder‐specific symptoms and early maladaptive schemas. Yet, we also uncovered substantial methodological limitations in most studies.

Conclusions

Schema therapy is a promising treatment for anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. Yet, there is a systematic problem in the quality of research despite growing clinical interest and application. We therefore concluded with a research agenda presenting recommendations for future research that will be crucial for building a solid evidence‐base for schema therapy in chronic anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.

Practitioner points

A systematic review on the effectiveness of schema therapy for anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD.

Preliminary but limited evidence that schema therapy leads to beneficial effects in disorder‐specific symptoms.

Preliminary but limited evidence that schema therapy leads to beneficial effects in early maladaptive schemas in anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.

More research of higher methodological quality is needed to provide more conclusive empirical support for the use of schema therapy for anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
Myelodysplastic syndromes with 20q deletion: incidence, prognostic value and impact on response to azacitidine of ASXL1 chromosomal deletion and genetic mutations
Authors: Martín Iván , Villamón Eva , Abellán Rosario , Calasanz Maria José , Irigoyen Aroa , Sanz Guillermo , Such Esperanza , Mora Elvira , Gutiérrez Míriam , Collado Rosa , García‐Serra Rocío , Vara Míriam , Blanco Mª Laura , Oiartzabal Itziar , Álvarez Sara , Bernal Teresa , Granada Isabel , Xicoy Blanca , Jerez Andrés , Calabuig Marisa , Diez Rosana , Gil Ángela , Díez-Campelo María , Solano Carlos , Tormo Mar ,   the Spanish Group of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (GESMD)
Published: July 2021

In myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), the 20q deletion [del(20q)] may cause deletion of the ASXL1 gene. We studied 153 patients with MDS and del(20q) to assess the incidence, prognostic value and impact on response to azacitidine (AZA) of ASXL1 chromosomal alterations and genetic mutations. Additionally, in vitro assay of the response to AZA in HAP1 (HAP1WT) and HAP1 ASXL1 knockout (HAP1KN) cells was performed. ASXL1 chromosomal alterations were detected in 44 patients (28·5%): 34 patients (22%) with a gene deletion (ASXL1DEL) and 10 patients (6·5%) with additional gene copies. ASXL1DEL was associated with a lower platelet count. The most frequently mutated genes were U2AF1 (16%), ASXL1 (14%), SF3B1 (11%), TP53 (7%) and SRSF2 (6%). ASXL1 alteration due to chromosomal deletion or genetic mutation (ASXL1DEL/ASXL1MUT) was linked by multivariable analysis with shorter overall survival [hazard ratio, (HR) 1·84; 95% confidence interval, (CI): 1·11–3·04; P = 0·018] and a higher rate for acute myeloid leukaemia progression (HR 2·47; 95% CI: 1·07–5·70, P = 0·034). ASXL1DEL/ASXL1MUT patients were correlated by univariable analysis with a worse response to AZA. HAP1KN cells showed more resistance to AZA compared to HAP1WT cells. In conclusion, ASXL1 alteration exerts a negative impact on MDS with del(20q) and could become useful for prognostic risk stratification and treatment decisions.
Microglia activation in postmortem brains with schizophrenia demonstrates distinct morphological changes between brain regions
Authors: Gober Ryan , Ardalan Maryam , Shiadeh Seyedeh Marziyeh Jabbari , Duque Linda , Garamszegi Susanna P. , Ascona Maureen , Barreda Ayled , Sun Xiaoyan , Mallard Carina , Vontell Regina T.
Published: July 2021

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a psychiatric disorder that can include symptoms of disorganized speech and thoughts with uncertain underlying mechanisms possibly linked to over‐activated microglia. In this study, we used brain samples from sixteen donors with SCZ and thirteen control donors to assess the differential activation of microglia by quantifying density and 3D reconstruction of microglia stained with ionized calcium‐binding adaptor molecule‐1 (Iba1). Our samples consisted of sections from the frontal, temporal, and cingulate cortical gray matter, subcortical white matter regions (SCWM), and included the anterior corpus callosum. In the first series of studies, we performed a density analysis followed by a spatial analysis to ascertain the microglial density, distribution, and soma size in SCZ brains. Second, we performed a series of morphological quantification techniques to investigate the arborization patterns of the microglia in SCZ. The results demonstrated an increase in microglia density in the cortical gray matter regions in SCZ cases, while in the SCWM, there was a significant increase in microglia density in the frontal and temporal, but not in the other brain regions of interest (ROIs). Spatial analysis using the “nearest neighbor” demonstrated that there was no effect in “clustering”, but there were shorter distances between microglia seen in the SCZ cases. The morphological measures showed that there was a region‐dependent increase in the microglia soma size in the SCZ cases while the Sholl analysis revealed a significant decrease in the microglia arborization in the SCZ cases across all the ROI’s studied. An in‐depth 3D reconstruction of microglia in Brodmann area 9 cortical region found that there was a significant association between age and reduced microglial arborization in the SCZ cases. This region‐dependent age association can help determine whether longitudinal changes in microglial activation across age are brain region‐dependent, which may point to potential therapeutic targets.
How wide is the gap? Examining gender income disparities among private career college graduates
Authors: Pizarro Milian Roger , Seward Brad
Published: July 2021

Research on gender wage gaps among recent graduates in Canada has ignored the private career college (PCC) sector. By virtue of the structure, composition and positioning of PCCs in Canada, along with the occupations they service, we argue that PCC graduates are an interesting population through which to study gender disparities. Drawing on an underutilized but rich dataset, we perform a series of exploratory multivariate analyses and estimate a gender income gap of approximately 5.3%. Though modest, this gap survives extensive robustness checks, with few notable exceptions. We theorize the implications of our findings for future policymaking and research.
The landscape of autosomal recessive variants in an isolated community: Implications for population screening for reproductive purposes
Authors: Khayat Morad , Danial‐Farran Nada , Chervinsky Elena , Zehavi Yoav , Peled‐Peretz Lilach , Gafni‐Amsalem Chen , Hakrosh Shadia , Abu‐Leil Zouabi Olfat , Tamir Liron , Mamlouk Efrat , Zlotogora Joël , Shalev Stavit A.
Published: July 2021

As a result of the preference for consanguineous/endogamous marriages, the Israeli Arab population is composed of isolated communities with relatively frequent autosomal recessive (AR) conditions in each community. Clinical diagnosis of affected individuals has uncovered the pathogenic variants throughout the years. We investigated the diversity of pathogenic AR variants in a single village in northern Israel by exome analysis of 50 random, healthy adults descendants of the founders. Only likely pathogenic and pathogenic variants in known AR genes were selected. In this study 48 AR variants were found, of which 12 had been previously diagnosed in patients from this village, and for 11 with a frequency compatible with the frequency already known. Among the other 36 variants, 12 had been previously diagnosed in affected individuals in other Arab communities in Israel and 24 variants had not been previously characterized in this population. Of the 35 variants associated with conditions of moderate–severe medical consequences, only eight were known previously in this village. These findings emphasize the importance to better delineate the conditions at risk in a defined community, in particular for the development of preventive measures such as screening tests for reproductive couples, and for genetic counseling.
Epileptic encephalopathy caused by ARV1 deficiency: Refinement of the genotype–phenotype spectrum and functional impact on GPI‐anchored proteins
Authors: Salian Smrithi , Scala Marcello , Nguyen Thi Tuyet Mai , Severino Mariasavina , Accogli Andrea , Amadori Elisabetta , Torella Annalaura , Pinelli Michele , Hudson Beth , Boothe Megan , Hurst Anna , Ben‐Omran Tawfeg , Larsen Martin J. , Fagerberg Christina R. , Sperling Lene , Miceikaite Ieva , Herissant Lucas , Doco‐Fenzy Martine , Jennesson Mélanie , Nigro Vincenzo , Striano Pasquale , Minetti Carlo , Sachdev Rani K. , Palmer Emma Elizabeth , Capra Valeria , Campeau Philippe M.
Published: July 2021

Early infantile epileptic encephalopathy 38 (EIEE38, MIM #617020) is caused by biallelic variants in ARV1, encoding a transmembrane protein of the endoplasmic reticulum with a pivotal role in glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) biosynthesis. We ascertained seven new patients from six unrelated families harboring biallelic variants in ARV1, including five novel variants. Affected individuals showed psychomotor delay, hypotonia, early onset refractory seizures followed by regression and specific neuroimaging features. Flow cytometric analysis on patient fibroblasts showed a decrease in GPI‐anchored proteins on the cell surface, supporting a lower residual activity of the mutant ARV1 as compared to the wildtype. A rescue assay through the transduction of lentivirus expressing wild type ARV1 cDNA effectively rescued these alterations. This study expands the clinical and molecular spectrum of the ARV1‐related encephalopathy, confirming the essential role of ARV1 in GPI biosynthesis and brain function.
Confirmatory psychometric evaluations of the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life–Lite Clinical Trials Version (IWQOL‐Lite‐CT)
Authors: Kolotkin Ronette L. , Williams Valerie S. L. , von Huth Smith Lisa , Meincke Henrik Hjorth , Qin Shanshan , Williams Nicole , Fehnel Sheri E.
Published: July 2021

The Impact of Weight on Quality of Life–Lite Clinical Trials Version (IWQOL‐Lite‐CT) was developed to assess weight‐related physical and psychosocial functioning in the context of clinical trials. Data from two pivotal trials of once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide for the purpose of weight management (NCT03548935 and NCT03552757) were analysed to confirm the structure, reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the IWQOL‐Lite‐CT and evaluate the magnitude of meaningful within‐patient change in patients with overweight or obesity, with and without type 2 diabetes. Factor analyses and inter‐item correlations confirmed the IWQOL‐Lite‐CT structure and scoring algorithm. Each composite score (physical, physical function, psychosocial, and total) demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alphas ≥ 0.82) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients ≥ 0.85) in both trials. Patterns of cross‐sectional and longitudinal construct validity correlations were generally consistent with hypotheses. Each of the IWQOL‐Lite‐CT composites was able to discriminate between known groups. Effect sizes and paired t tests comparing IWQOL‐Lite‐CT scores at baseline and Week 68 were statistically significant for all composites in both trials (P < 0.0001), providing strong support for the ability to detect change. Results of anchor‐based analyses supported responder thresholds ranging from 13.5 to 16.6 across composite scores. The IWQOL‐Lite‐CT, a comprehensive assessment of weight‐related functioning from the patient perspective, is appropriate for use in clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of new treatments for weight management.
Variation in opioid prescribing patterns after abdominal transplant surgery
Authors: Sussman Jon , Calderon Esteban , Ubl Daniel S. , Croome Kristopher P. , Taner C. Burcin , Heimbach Julie K. , Moss Adyr , Habermann Elizabeth B. , Mathur Amit K.
Published: July 2021

Background

Opioids are associated with negative transplant outcomes. We sought to identify patient and center effects on over‐prescribing of opioids (> 200 OME (oral morphine equivalents)).

Study design

Clinical and opioid prescription data (2014–2017) were collected from three academic transplant centers for kidney (KT), liver (LT), and simultaneous liver‐kidney transplant (SLK) patients. Multivariable models were used to identify predictors of opioid over‐prescribing at discharge and the occurrence of refill prescriptions at 90 days.

Results

Three‐thousand seven‐hundred and two patients underwent transplant in the cohort (KT: n = 2358, LT: n = 1221, SLK: n = 123). More than 80% of recipients were over‐prescribed opioids at discharge (Median OME (mOME) = 300 (IQR 225–375). LT and SLK had the largest prescription size (LT mOME 338 (IQR 300–450); SLK mOME 338 (IQR 225–450) and refill rate (LT: 64%, SLK 59%) (all, P < .001). Multivariable analysis indicated that transplant center was a significant predictor of opioid over‐prescription after KT and LT (all, P < .001); older age (in KT) and length of stay (LOS) (in LT) were protective factors (both, P < .05). Refill occurrence was associated with initial prescription size and was reduced by older age and initial LOS (all, P < .05).

Conclusions

The wide variation in opioid prescribing patterns has implications for transplant practice innovation, guideline development, and further study.
Skin adnexal carcinoma with BRD3‐NUTM2B fusion
Authors: Rubio Gonzalez Belen , Ortiz Michael V. , Ross Dara S. , Busam Klaus J.
Published: July 2021

NUT carcinomas are genetically defined epithelial neoplasms. Most tumors harbor fusions of NUTM1 with BRD4 or BRD3. Their histopathologic features have been predominantly reported as undifferentiated or poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, and clinically they tend to be aggressive cancers. However, recent studies have revealed a broader spectrum of NUTM1‐rearranged neoplasms with several new fusion partners and associated variable histopathologic phenotypes and clinical behaviors, including benign and malignant cutaneous poroid tumors. We report herein a primary invasive carcinoma of skin adnexal origin with a previously undescribed fusion between BRD3 and NUTM2B. The tumor occurred on the shoulder of a 7‐year‐old girl and was excised with negative margins. A sentinel lymph node was positive. After follow‐up of 23 months, and without systemic treatment, the child remains free of tumor. This case expands the spectrum of NUT carcinomas by including a skin adnexal variant with follicular infundibular differentiation, a novel genomic aberration, and preliminary evidence of a less aggressive clinical course.
Structural and functional cardiac changes in endomyocardial fibrosis treated with endomyocardial resection: Disease progression captured by multimodality imaging
Authors: Gibson Gregory T. , Majure David T. , Hartman Alan , Vitkovski Taisia , Breuer Frank , Maybaum Simon , Kuvin Jeffrey T. , Saba Shahryar G.
Published: July 2021

Eosinophilic myocarditis, a rare and under‐recognized disease process, occurs due to cytotoxic inflammation of the endomyocardium that over time may lead to a restrictive cardiomyopathy. We report clinical, multimodality imaging, and pathologic findings in a 45‐year‐old woman over a 17‐month period as she progressed from suspected acute eosinophilic myocarditis to phenotypic endomyocardial fibrosis resulting in recurrent ascites. Interval echocardiograms demonstrate definitive pathologic structural changes that reflect the hemodynamic consequences of the underlying cardiomyopathy. Despite a negative myocardial biopsy, characteristic findings on cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging clarified the diagnosis which led to successful treatment with endomyocardial resection and valve replacements.
The relationship between presystolic wave and subclinical left ventricular dysfunction assessed by myocardial performance ındex in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Saylik Faysal , Akbulut Tayyar
Published: July 2021

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients have left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) in an earlier stage. Myocardial performance index (MPI) reflects both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. A presystolic wave (PSW) detected on late diastole has been found to be associated with LVD.

Aims

We sought to determine whether there is an association between PSW and subclinical LVD assessed by MPI in PCOS patients.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 106 patients diagnosed with PCOS in this study. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of PSW. Both groups were compared with respect to demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic properties. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to detect predictors of subclinical LVD.

Results

The study included 58 patients with PSW‐positive (54.7%, mean age: 23) and 48 patients with PSW‐negative (45.3%, mean age: 25). PSW‐positive patients had a higher waist‐to‐hip ratio, fasting insulin, and HOMA‐IR compared to PSW‐negative patients. Higher MPI velocities and more frequent subclinical LVD were observed in PSW‐positive group than in PSW‐negatives (p < 0.001, p = 0.0031, respectively). PSW velocity was significantly correlated with MPI velocity (r:.404, p = 0.0016). The presence of PSW, HOMA‐IR, and waist‐to‐hip ratio > 85 were predictors of subclinical LVD in univariate logistic regression analysis. Only the presence of PSW was an independent predictor of subclinical LVD in multivariable logistic regression analysis (OR:3.257, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

PSW prevalence was 54.7% in PCOS patients. PSW velocity was significantly correlated with MPI velocity. The presence of PSW was independently associated with subclinical LVD in PCOS women.
Host repertoires and changing insect–plant interactions
Authors: Braga Mariana P. , Janz Niklas
Published: July 2021

1. One of the main challenges faced by ecologists today is to understand and predict how species interactions will respond to the current environmental change. It is likely that these changes will have a stronger effect on phylogenetic lineages that depend on intimate and specialised ecological interactions, such as most herbivorous insects.

2. In this review, we highlight the aspects that we consider are fundamental for understanding how species interactions change over time. We start by reviewing terminology and conclude that commonly used terms have undesired connotations with regard to what we know about how hosts are acquired and lost over time.

3. Based on that, we suggest host repertoire as a better term to describe the use of multiple hosts than the host range or diet breadth, both of which fail to capture that host use is often non‐contiguous and tend to emphasise the total number of hosts, while ignoring host identity.

4. Another important issue that we highlight is the differentiation between fundamental and realised host repertoires, where the latter is the set of hosts that are actually used in nature, whereas the first includes all hosts that can potentially be used by the species. We show that the characterisation of the fundamental host repertoire is key to understanding how insect–plant interactions will respond to the ecological opportunities instigated by environmental change.