bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of platelets on major thrombosis in patients with a normal white blood cell count in essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Buxhofer‐Ausch Veronika , Wolf Dominik , Sormann Siegfried , Forjan Ernst , Schimetta Wolfgang , Gisslinger Bettina , Heibl Sonja , Krauth Maria Theresa , Thiele Jürgen , Ruckser Reinhard , Gisslinger Heinz
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Cell counts have a significant impact on the complex mechanism of thrombosis in patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET). We recently demonstrated a considerable impact of white blood cell (WBC) counts on thrombotic risk in patients with optimized platelet counts by analysing a large anagrelide registry. In contrast, the current analysis of the registry aimed to estimate the influence of platelet counts on thrombotic risk in patients with optimized WBC counts.

Methods

Cox regression analysis and Kaplan‐Meier plot were applied on all patients in the registry with optimized WBC counts.

Results

By using the calculated cut‐off of 593 G/L for platelets, Cox regression analysis revealed a clear influence of elevated platelet counts on the occurrence of a major thrombotic event (P < .001). A Kaplan‐Meier plot revealed a markedly shorter time to a major thrombotic event for patients with platelet counts above the cut‐off (P < .001).

Conclusions

The data show clear impact of platelet lowering on the thrombotic risk in ET patients with normal WBC counts. Therefore, selective platelet lowering with anagrelide appears sufficient for thrombotic risk reduction in WHO‐diagnosed ET patients lacking leukocytosis.
Bi‐allelic mutations in EGR2 cause autosomal recessive demyelinating neuropathy by disrupting the EGR2‐NAB complex
Authors: Lupo V. , Won S. , Frasquet M. , Schnitzler M. S. , Komath S. S. , Pascual‐Pascual S. I. , Espinós C. , Svaren J. , Sevilla T.
Published: September 2020

Background and purpose

Mutations in the early growth response 2 gene (EGR2) cause demyelinating, but also axonal, neuropathies differing in severity and age of onset. Except for one family, all reported cases have autosomal dominant inheritance and mutations are localized within the three zinc finger (ZNF) DNA‐binding domain. The aim of this study was to provide a clinical and molecular analysis of a novel recessive mutation in EGR2.

Methods

Clinical and electrophysiological assessments of three affected patients, from a consanguineous family, were performed. Genetic analyses of EGR2 were carried out by Sanger sequencing. Functional effects of clinical recessive mutations were assessed using a mammalian two‐hybrid assay.

Results

A novel missense mutation (c.791C>T; p.P264L) in the homozygous state was detected outside the ZNF domains of the EGR2 gene. Three affected siblings presented with distal demyelinating polyneuropathy with severe sensory loss, progressive thoracolumbar scoliosis and trigeminal neuralgia. Respiratory compromise and cranial nerve dysfunction were also found. Our data indicate that the p.P264L mutation prevents interaction of EGR2 transcription factor with NAB corepressors, suggesting that a disruption of the NAB‐EGR2 protein interactions can result in dramatic neuropathy.

Conclusion

Mutations in, or next to, the R1 domain of EGR2 should be considered with extreme caution for genetic counseling, since these could cause a severe neuropathy with an autosomal recessive manner of transmission.
On the estimation of inbreeding depression using different measures of inbreeding from molecular markers
Authors: Caballero Armando , Villanueva Beatriz , Druet Tom
Published: September 2020

The inbreeding coefficient (F) of individuals can be estimated from molecular marker data, such as SNPs, using measures of homozygosity of individual markers or runs of homozygosity (ROH) across the genome. These different measures of F can then be used to estimate the rate of inbreeding depression (ID) for quantitative traits. Some recent simulation studies have investigated the accuracy of this estimation with contradictory results. Whereas some studies suggest that estimates of inbreeding from ROH account more accurately for ID, others suggest that inbreeding measures from SNP‐by‐SNP homozygosity giving a large weight to rare alleles are more accurate. Here, we try to give more light on this issue by carrying out a set of computer simulations considering a range of population genetic parameters and population sizes. Our results show that the previous studies are indeed not contradictory. In populations with low effective size, where relationships are more tight and selection is relatively less intense, F measures based on ROH provide very accurate estimates of ID whereas SNP‐by‐SNP‐based F measures with high weight to rare alleles can show substantial upwardly biased estimates of ID. However, in populations of large effective size, with more intense selection and trait allele frequencies expected to be low if they are deleterious for fitness because of purifying selection, average estimates of ID from SNP‐by‐SNP‐based F values become unbiased or slightly downwardly biased and those from ROH‐based F values become slightly downwardly biased. The noise attached to all these estimates, nevertheless, can be very high in large‐sized populations. We also investigate the relationship between the different F measures and the homozygous mutation load, which has been suggested as a proxy of inbreeding depression.
Optimizing video sampling for juvenile fish surveys: Using deep learning and evaluation of assumptions to produce critical fisheries parameters
Authors: Sheaves Marcus , Bradley Michael , Herrera Cesar , Mattone Carlo , Lennard Caitlin , Sheaves Janine , Konovalov Dmitry A.
Published: September 2020

The limitations imposed by traditional sampling methods have restricted the acquisition of data on key fisheries parameters. This is particularly the case for juveniles because most traditional gear explicitly avoids the capture of juveniles, and the juveniles of many species use habitats in which traditional gear is ineffective. The increasing availability and sophistication of Remote Underwater Video Techniques (RUVs) such as Baited Remote Underwater Video, Unbaited Remote Underwater Video and Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles offer the opportunity of overcoming some of the key limitations of more traditional approaches. However, RUV techniques come with their own set of limitations that need to be addressed before they can fully realize their potential to shed new light on the early life history of fish. We evaluate key strengths and limitations of RUV techniques, and how these can be overcome, in particular by employing bespoke computer vision Artificial Intelligence approaches, such as Deep Learning in its Convolutional Neural Networks instantiation. In addition, we investigate residual issues that remain to be solved despite the advances made possible by new technology, and the role of explicitly identifying and evaluating key residual assumptions.
Families Who Return to the Child Welfare System after a Previous Termination of Parental Rights: Few in Number, High in Court Utilization
Authors: Davidson Ryan D. , Irgens Megan S. , Beck Connie J.
Published: September 2020

Anecdotally, judges, court staff and behavioral health providers working in the child welfare system indicate that families commonly return to the system after a termination of parental rights. The current study is the first to empirically investigate these families who return to the system with new children. Results show that although only a small proportion of families returned after a previous termination of parental rights, these families often returned multiple times with new children. Future research should attempt to replicate these results in other jurisdictions and focus on risk and protective factors to better understand the needs of these parents and children, and determine how to better support them within the child welfare system.
Closing the pre and in‐service gap: Perceptions and implementation of the IPA during student teaching
Authors: Eddy Jennifer , Bustamante Carolina
Published: September 2020

This research explored the experiences of nine preservice teacher candidates of Spanish in world language teacher education programs at two higher education institutions implementing the Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA) as Student Teachers (ST), as well as perceptions of seven Cooperating Teachers (CTs) and the University Field Supervisor. This qualitative, multiple‐case study included data from interviews, focus groups, and classroom observations. Four themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) STs’ preparation and CT's familiarity with the IPA; (b) STs’ implementation of IPA and CTs’ reactions; (c) impact of clinical experience on STs and CTs' pedagogical beliefs; and (d) professional development needs. The article concludes with recommendations for world language teacher certification programs and professional development opportunities for in‐service, CTs.
Geographic variation in responses of kelp forest communities of the California Current to recent climatic changes
Authors: Beas‐Luna Rodrigo , Micheli Fiorenza , Woodson C. Brock , Carr Mark , Malone Dan , Torre Jorge , Boch Charles , Caselle Jennifer E. , Edwards Matt , Freiwald Jan , Hamilton Scott L. , Hernandez Arturo , Konar Brenda , Kroeker Kristy J. , Lorda Julio , Montaño‐Moctezuma Gabriela , Torres‐Moye Guillermo
Published: September 2020

The changing global climate is having profound effects on coastal marine ecosystems around the world. Structure, functioning, and resilience, however, can vary geographically, depending on species composition, local oceanographic forcing, and other pressures from human activities and use. Understanding ecological responses to environmental change and predicting changes in the structure and functioning of whole ecosystems require large‐scale, long‐term studies, yet most studies trade spatial extent for temporal duration. We address this shortfall by integrating multiple long‐term kelp forest monitoring datasets to evaluate biogeographic patterns and rates of change of key functional groups (FG) along the west coast of North America. Analysis of data from 469 sites spanning Alaska, USA, to Baja California, Mexico, and 373 species (assigned to 18 FG) reveals regional variation in responses to both long‐term (2006–2016) change and a recent marine heatwave (2014–2016) associated with two atmospheric and oceanographic anomalies, the “Blob” and extreme El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Canopy‐forming kelps appeared most sensitive to warming throughout their range. Other FGs varied in their responses among trophic levels, ecoregions, and in their sensitivity to heatwaves. Changes in community structure were most evident within the southern and northern California ecoregions, while communities in the center of the range were more resilient. We report a poleward shift in abundance of some key FGs. These results reveal major, ongoing region‐wide changes in productive coastal marine ecosystems in response to large‐scale climate variability, and the potential loss of foundation species. In particular, our results suggest that coastal communities that are dependent on kelp forests will be more impacted in the southern portion of the California Current region, highlighting the urgency of implementing adaptive strategies to sustain livelihoods and ensure food security. The results also highlight the value of multiregional integration and coordination of monitoring programs for improving our understanding of marine ecosystems, with the goal of informing policy and resource management in the future.
Mapping the effectiveness of nature‐based solutions for climate change adaptation
Authors: Chausson Alexandre , Turner Beth , Seddon Dan , Chabaneix Nicole , Girardin Cécile A. J. , Kapos Valerie , Key Isabel , Roe Dilys , Smith Alison , Woroniecki Stephen , Seddon Nathalie
Published: September 2020

Nature‐based solutions (NbS) to climate change currently have considerable political traction. However, national intentions to deploy NbS have yet to be fully translated into evidence‐based targets and action on the ground. To enable NbS policy and practice to be better informed by science, we produced the first global systematic map of evidence on the effectiveness of nature‐based interventions for addressing the impacts of climate change and hydrometeorological hazards on people. Most of the interventions in natural or semi‐natural ecosystems were reported to have ameliorated adverse climate impacts. Conversely, interventions involving created ecosystems (e.g., afforestation) were associated with trade‐offs; such studies primarily reported reduced soil erosion or increased vegetation cover but lower water availability, although this evidence was geographically restricted. Overall, studies reported more synergies than trade‐offs between reduced climate impacts and broader ecological, social, and climate change mitigation outcomes. In addition, nature‐based interventions were most often shown to be as effective or more so than alternative interventions for addressing climate impacts. However, there were substantial gaps in the evidence base. Notably, there were few studies of the cost‐effectiveness of interventions compared to alternatives and few integrated assessments considering broader social and ecological outcomes. There was also a bias in evidence toward the Global North, despite communities in the Global South being generally more vulnerable to climate impacts. To build resilience to climate change worldwide, it is imperative that we protect and harness the benefits that nature can provide, which can only be done effectively if informed by a strengthened evidence base.
The impacts of fiscal decentralization on environmental innovation in China
Authors: Zhou Kuo , Zhou Baicheng , Yu Mengmeng
Published: September 2020

Environmental innovation is the fundamental support for sustainable development. Exploiting Chinese provincial panel data from 2007 to 2017, this study investigates the impacts of fiscal decentralization on environmental innovation. In particular, we discuss the regulating role of government’s environmental protection expenditures relying on the mediator effect model. The empirical analyses show that fiscal decentralization cannot only directly promote environmental innovation, but also indirectly weaken environmental innovation through the environmental protection expenditure of the local government. The overall performance is that fiscal decentralization promotes environmental innovation. It is noteworthy that there is regional heterogeneity in the impact of fiscal decentralization on environmental innovation. The impact in the east is significantly higher than in the central and western regions in China.
The relationship between diabetes and depressive symptoms in men with or at risk of HIV infection
Authors: Basil RC , Brown TT , Haberlen S , Rubin LH , Plankey M , Becker JT , Lake JE , Palella FJ , Sarkar S
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The aim of the study was to compare the prevalence of comorbid diabetes and depressive symptoms in men living with HIV (MLWH) with that in men without HIV infection and to determine associations between glycaemic control and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Participants included 920 MLWH and 840 men without HIV infection from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) with available data regarding glycaemic status [categorized as normal for fasting blood glucose (FBG) < 100 mg/dL, prediabetes for FBG 100–125 mg/dL, and diabetes, defined by self‐report, diabetes medication use or FBG ≥ 126 mg/dL on at least two consecutive visits, with diabetes classified as controlled if Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) < 7.5% and uncontrolled if HbA1C ≥ 7.5%]. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) score, with CES‐D ≥ 16 scores classified as elevated depressive symptoms. A modified Poisson regression model with robust variance was used and adjusted for covariates including HIV serostatus.

Results

Compared to men without HIV infection, MLWH had a higher mean CES‐D score, but a similar prevalence of diabetes (11.3% versus 12.8%, respectively; P = 0.33). The concomitant prevalence of diabetes and elevated depressive symptoms did not differ by HIV serostatus (P = 0.215). In an adjusted analysis, men with uncontrolled diabetes had a greater prevalence of depressive symptoms compared to men with normoglycaemia (prevalence ratio = 1.43; 95% confidence interval 1.11, 1.84). The association between glycaemic status and depressive symptoms did not differ by HIV serostatus (P = 0.22 for interaction).

Conclusions

Both controlled and uncontrolled diabetes were independently associated with a greater prevalence of depressive symptoms, regardless of HIV serostatus. These results highlight the importance of identifying depression in people with diabetes.
The ‘Great Decarceration’: Historical Trends and Future Possibilities
Authors: COX PAMELA , GODFREY BARRY
Published: September 2020

During the 19th Century, hundreds of thousands of people were caught up in what Foucault famously referred to as the ‘great confinement’, or ‘great incarceration’, spanning reformatories, prisons, asylums, and more. Levels of institutional incarceration increased dramatically across many parts of Europe and the wider world through the expansion of provision for those defined as socially marginal, deviant, or destitute. While this trend has been the focus of many historical studies, much less attention has been paid to the dynamics of ‘the great decarceration’ that followed for much of the early‐ to mid‐20th Century. This article opens with an overview of these early decarceration trends in the English adult and youth justice systems and suggests why these came to an end from the 1940s onwards. It then explores parallels with marked decarceration trends today, notably in youth justice, and suggests how these might be expedited, extended, and protected.
Policy Responses to Domestic Violence, the Criminalisation Thesis and ‘Learning from History’
Authors: WILLIAMS LUCY , WALKLATE SANDRA
Published: September 2020

The ‘criminalisation thesis’ has proved a contentious but defining feature of modern social and legal responses to domestic violence since the 1970s. However, criminalisation has not always been the focus of legal attempts to tackle violence or offer recourse to victims. This article uses historical examples to explore the potential of legislative intervention outside of criminal law in tackling violence against women. While the Victorians introduced the first criminal legislation specifically developed to tackle domestic violence, the intervention remained singular. Those addressing violence against women soon shifted their focus towards achieving broader social and cultural change via civil law. Legislators sought to reduce the vulnerability of women to exploitation and violence at the hands of their husbands through reforms to child custody, divorce, and property law. The authors find there are relevant lessons to be learned from addressing domestic violence in this way, which might usefully inform current policy direction.
The Buffalo study: Outcome and associated predictors in endodontic microsurgery‐ a cohort study
Authors: Azim A. A. , Albanyan H. , Azim K. A. , Piasecki L.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To (i) evaluate and compare the outcome of endodontic microsurgery (EMS) using periapical radiographs (PAs) and cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans; (ii) identify prognostic factors affecting the outcome; and (iii) correlate the effect of guided tissue regeneration (GTR) on the pattern of apical bone remodelling.

Methodology

Eighty‐two patients (101 teeth) who received EMS were included and followed‐up using clinical and radiographic examinations (PAs and CBCT scans). Two calibrated endodontists evaluated the radiographic healing (favourable or unfavourable) by assessing PAs and CBCT. The success (favourable radiographic outcome with no clinical symptoms) and survival rates (tooth retention without clinical symptoms) were calculated, and the cause of failure (diseased or fractured) was identified. Pre‐treatment (age, sex, tooth type, position, sequence of treatment, quality of root canal before surgery, presence/absence of through‐and‐through lesion, presence/absence apico‐marginal defect) and treatment (presence/absence of errors during surgery, type of error (major or minor), retro‐preparation depth, presence/absence of an isthmus, retro‐filling material used, presence/absence bone graft material and/or resorbable membrane) factors were recorded. Data were analysed statistically to determine the inter‐observer, intra‐observer and inter‐radiographic agreements. Univariate, bivariate and logistic regression analysis were used to determine prognostic factors affecting the outcome and the effect of GTR on the pattern of apical bone remodelling. The significance level was set at 5%.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients (83 teeth) presented for outcome evaluation (recall rate: 84%). The survival rate was 93%. The success rate was 88% using PA and 86% using CBCT when vertical root fracture (VRF) cases were included and 94% using PAs, and 91% using CBCT when VRF cases were excluded. The intra‐ and inter‐observer agreements were substantial using CBCT, slight to a fair agreement using PA (P < 0.001), and slight to moderate for inter‐radiographic agreement. The occurence of a major procedural error during surgery was the only negative predictor for the outcome of EMS (P = 0.013). GTR did not affect the success rate or the type of healing when assessed using PA but it affected the type of healing on CBCT scans (complete vs incomplete healing) and the pattern of cortical plate remodelling (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The success and survival rate of endodontic microsurgery was very high, and the occurrence of a major procedural error during surgery was the only factor affecting the outcome. GTR did not improve the outcome, but did affect the quality of apical bone remodelling following EMS.
A systematic review of worldwide data on tinea capitis: analysis of the last 20 years
Authors: Rodríguez‐Cerdeira C. , Martínez‐Herrera E. , Szepietowski J.C. , Pinto‐Almazán R. , Frías‐De‐León M.G. , Espinosa‐Hernández V.M. , Chávez‐Gutiérrez E. , García‐Salazar E. , Vega‐Sánchez D.C. , Arenas R. , Hay R. , Saunte D.M.
Published: September 2020

Dermatophyte infections are the most common fungal infections in humans; among them, tinea capitis (TC) – the most contagious fungal infection – is caused by anthropophilic, zoophilic and geophilic dermatophytes. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the different aetiological variants involved in TC and the overall epidemiology of the causes of this infection in the last two decades. We searched the MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase databases for articles published from July 2000 to August 2019 using the following search terms: ‘Tinea capitis’, ‘Africa’, ‘America’, ‘Asia’, ‘Europe’, ‘Oceania’, and the names of the countries on each continent. The flow of information through the different phases in this systematic review was depicted using a PRISMA flow diagram, which mapped the number of records identified, included and excluded, and the reasons for exclusion. Our findings indicate that the frequency of different aetiologic agents of TC in the reported studies varied globally, from 0.4–87.7% in Africa, 0.2–74.0% in North America, 0.0–91.2% in Eastern Asia, 0.0–69.0% in Eastern Europe and 2.9–86.4% in Oceania.Microsporum canisis the most frequent reported zoophilic agent worldwide, whileTrichophyton violaceumandTrichophyton tonsuransare the predominant anthropophilic agents. Over time, the frequency of these latter fungal infections has increased globally, and these fungi have become the major species globally. Anthropophilic transmission – the most prevalent type of transmission – could be explained by two factors: (i) the socioeconomic status of affected countries and population groups with associated risk factors and (ii) movement of populations importing new causes of infection to areas where they had not been encountered previously. We observed that intercontinental migration and travel; globalization; environmental, climatic and ecological changes; and accelerated evolution of health technologies may influence the observed epidemiological changes and, consequently, contributed to the variations in the global status of TC.
Environmental determinants in morphospace and diet of the larval blenny Calliclinus geniguttatus from an upwelling ecosystem
Authors: Galeano‐Chavarria Ana María , Landaeta Mauricio F. , Plaza Guido , Castillo Manuel I. , Alarcón Darly S.
Published: September 2020

The effects of two contrasting environmental conditions in nearshore waters off central Chile on the diet and morphospace of two cohorts of larval labrisomid blenny Calliclinus geniguttatus were studied using geometric morphometrics and gut content analysis. The two environmental conditions corresponded to (a) a cold period with upwelling‐favourable southwesterly winds and a mixed water column of cooler water and (b) a warm period with calm winds and stratified warmer water. During the cold period, fish larvae had a more hydrodynamic head shape, longer jaws and a higher feeding incidence, suggesting a greater food supply due to upwelling events and a possible increase in encounter rates in the turbulent environment. In contrast, the larvae from the warm period had a more robust head shape with smaller jaws and a lower feeding incidence, which was related to higher water temperatures and lower wind intensities. The present study suggests that larvae have a rapid response to environmental changes on a short time scale (i.e., from weeks to months), showing a link between environmental conditions and changes in the phenotypic traits and diet of the larval stages of this cryptobenthic species.
TheGill‐Oxygen Limitation Theoryand size at maturity/maximum size relationships for salmonid populations occupying flowing waters
Authors: Meyer Kevin A. , Schill Daniel J.
Published: September 2020

The slowing of growth as fish age has long been believed to be related to energy expenditure for maturation, and this rationalization has been used to explain why, across nearly all fish species, the relationship between size at first maturity (Lm) and maximum (Lmax) or asymptotic length (L∞) is relatively constant. In contrast, the Gill‐Oxygen Limitation Theory (GOLT) postulates that (a) fish growth slows because as they grow, their two‐dimensional ability to extract oxygen from the water diminishes relative to their three‐dimensional weight gain, and (b) they can only invest energy for maturation if oxygen supply at their size at first maturity (Qm) exceeds that needed for maintenance metabolism (Q∞). It has been reported previously across dozens of marine fish species that the relationship betweenQmandQ∞is linear and, further, it can be mathematically converted toLmvs. L∞by raising both terms to the power ofD(the gill surface factor), resulting in a slope of 1.36. If the GOLT is universal, a similar slope should exist forLmDvs. L∞Drelationships for freshwater species across multiple individual populations that reside in disparate habitats, although to our knowledge this has never been evaluated. For analysis, we used existing data from previous studies conducted on 51 stream‐dwelling populations of redband troutOncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri, Yellowstone cutthroat troutO. clarkii bouvieriand mountain whitefishProsopium williamsoni. The resultingLmDvs. L∞Dslopes combining all data points (1.35) or for all species considered separately (range = 1.29–1.40) were indeed equivalent to the slope originally produced for the marine species from which the GOLT‐derived relationship was first reported. We briefly discuss select papers both supporting and resisting various aspects of the GOLT, note that it could potentially explain shrinking sizes of marine fish, and call for more concerted research efforts combining laboratory and field expertise in fish growth research.
Simple models for predicting water loss of bread during baking
Authors: Purlis Emmanuel
Published: September 2020

The baking process has received quite attention during the last three decades, due to its economic and industrial relevance, and since it is associated with staple foods like bread. Because of the composition and structure of dough, a series of complex, simultaneous and coupled phenomena occur in the product inside the oven, which make very difficult the design, control and optimization of the process. For these tasks, the use of mathematical models appears as an adequate solution, although they still represent a complex approach for industrial purposes and their use is limited. In this paper, we focus on prediction of water loss, which is relevant for different aspects of the process, for example, texture and sensory properties, economic impact, energy demand. Two simple models are developed based on knowledge about transport phenomena of bread baking. Both methods involve the estimation of a mass transfer coefficient, which can be related to operating conditions. Good prediction performance is found in both cases, in a common range of baking conditions. Finally, the use of water loss as a design and control variable of the process is discussed, and we propose the construction of a baking diagram with moisture loss as independent variable.

Practical applications

Overall, there is a lack of simple and accurate prediction methods for baking, in contrast with other traditional food process operations, since the complexity of the process makes very difficult the task of developing user‐friendly models. This work proposes two simple models to predict water loss variation during bread baking, based on knowledge about transport phenomena of the process. Implementation of the proposed methods needs simple adjustment of parameters, which can be related to operating conditions (oven temperature and apparent heat transfer coefficient). Besides, the construction of a baking diagram is discussed.
Developmental Trajectories of Women's Identity Development
Authors: Butterbaugh Sarah M. , Wood Nathan D.
Published: September 2020

A substantial amount of identity development scholarship has drawn on the work of Erik Erikson to argue that women resolve stages of identity and intimacy simultaneously, whereas men follow the trajectory originally proposed by Erikson, first resolving the identity stage, then the intimacy stage. Some research has shown that for some women, the identity and intimacy stages appear to be fused; however, other research has shown that many women do follow the traditional Eriksonian progression. We propose a model of identity development for women that maps a trajectory for women who follow Erikson's traditional stages and a relational‐identity trajectory characterized by simultaneous resolution of the identity and intimacy stages. Our model synthesizes work by Josselson (1987), Dyk and Adams's (1990) recognition of sex‐role identification, Kerpelman and Pittman's (2018) infusion of attachment theory and identity, and Berzonsky's (1990) identity styles. Future research directions are also presented.
Role of nucleotide binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor protein 3 inflammasome in stress‐induced gastric injury
Authors: Higashimori Akira , Watanabe Toshio , Nadatani Yuji , Nakata Akinobu , Otani Koji , Hosomi Shuhei , Tanaka Fumio , Kamata Noriko , Taira Koichi , Nagami Yasuaki , Tanigawa Tetsuya , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: September 2020

Background and Aim

The inflammasomes promote pro‐caspase‐1 cleavage, leading to processing of pro‐interleukin (IL)‐1β into its mature form. We investigated the role of the IL‐1β and nucleotide binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in gastric injury in mice receiving water‐immersion restraint stress (WIRS), focusing on the cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2/prostaglandin (PG) E2 axis.

Methods

To induce gastric injury, the mice were placed in a restraint cage and immersed in the water bath to the level of the xiphoid process. Protein levels of mature caspase‐1 and IL‐1β were assessed by western blotting.

Results

Water‐immersion restraint stress induced gastric injury with increase in IL‐1β expression by activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Exogenous IL‐1β attenuated the injury, whereas anti‐IL‐1β neutralizing antibody and IL‐1β receptor antibody aggravated it. NLRP3−/− and caspase‐1−/− mice enhanced the injury with reducing of mature IL‐1β, and this aggravation was reduced by exogenous IL‐1β supplementation. Toll‐like receptor 4−/− mice were hyporesponsive to WIRS in terms of mature IL‐1β production. Rabeprazole attenuated the injury with preventing inflammasome activation. WIRS injured the stomach with promotion of COX‐2 mRNA and PGE2 production, and exogenous IL‐1β enhanced these molecules, while IL‐1β immunoneutralization exerted opposite effect. PGE2 supplementation abolished the hypersensitivity in NLRP3−/− and caspase‐1−/− mice through negative regulation of inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

These results suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome‐derived IL‐1β plays a protective role in stress‐induced gastric injury via activation of the COX‐2/PGE2 axis. Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling and gastric acid may be involved in NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Factors associated with patient safety in neonatal intensive care units: A multicenter study using ordinal logistic regression
Authors: Yu Mi , Park Chang Gi
Published: September 2020

Aim

This study aimed to identify nurses' staffing levels, neonatal infection experience, infection control knowledge, and infection control performance, as well as levels of patient safety, and to verify the factors influencing patient safety related to infection control in multi‐centered neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Methods

A self‐administered questionnaire was completed by 251 NICU nurses working in seven hospitals throughout South Korea. The data were collected in February 2019 and analyzed using generalized ordinal logistic regression.

Results

The distribution of patient safety was as follows: level 1 (very poor) 0%, level 2 (poor) 6.8%, level 3 (fair) 29.7%, level 4 (good) 35.0%, level 5 (very good) 21.5%, and level 6 (excellent) 7.2%. The factors influencing patient safety differed across the different levels of patient safety. Comparing patient safety level 2 with the other levels (3, 4, 5, 6), the nurse staffing level (b = 1.12) was a significant influencing factor. Comparing patient safety levels 2, 3, 4 and 5 with level 6, the influencing factors were neonatal infection experience (b = −1.18) and infection control performance (b = 5.77).

Conclusion

The nurse staffing level was a factor when patient safety levels were low, and nurses' neonatal infection experience and infection control performance were factors when patient safety levels were high. Institutional policy efforts are required to identify patient safety levels in NICUs to develop comprehensive strategies to ensure appropriate nurse staffing and enhance neonatal infection control performance to prevent infections.
The role of workplace social capital on the relationship between perceived stress and professional identity among clinical nurses during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: Zhang Yu‐dong , Gao Ya‐qin , Tang Yan , Li Yu‐hong
Published: September 2020

Aim

Workplace social capital refers to relationship networks formed by individuals in an organization through long‐term mutually beneficial interactions and cooperation with members. These relationship networks can create value and resources for organizations and individuals. This current study aimed to explore the potential impact of workplace social capital on the association between perceived stress and professional identity in clinical nurses during the COVID‐19 outbreak.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 308 Chinese clinical nurses filled out the Chinese Workplace Social Capital Scale, the Chinese Perceived Stress Scale, and the Chinese Nurse's Professional Identity Scale. Descriptive analysis, independent samples t test, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analyses, and bootstrap method were performed to analyze the data.

Results

Perceived stress was negatively correlated with professional identity (r = −0.455, p < .001). Workplace social capital was not found to moderate the relationship between perceived stress and professional identity (95% CI −0.03 to− 0.06, p = .47 > .05). Instead, it mediated that relationship (95% CI −0.61 to −0.19, p < .05), and its mediating effect was −0.37.

Conclusions

In the early stages of the COVID‐19 outbreak, workplace social capital among the investigated clinical nurses failed to buffer the negative impact of perceived stress on professional identity, but it did play a part in mediating perceived stress and professional identity. A healthy workplace should be provided to clinical nurses to improve their professional identity, while lowering perceived stress.
SCF‐Slimb is critical for Glycogen synthase kinase‐3β‐mediated suppression of TAF15‐induced neurotoxicity in Drosophila
Authors: Choi Hyun‐Jun , Joo Cha Sun , Do Hyeon‐Ah , Kim Hyung‐Jun , Lee Jang‐Won , Kim Kiyoung
Published: September 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder characterized pathologically by motor neuron degeneration and associated with aggregation of RNA‐binding proteins. TATA‐binding protein‐associated factor 15 (TAF15) accumulates as cytoplasmic aggregates in neuronal cells, and clearance of these aggregates is considered a potential therapeutic strategy for ALS. However, the exact pathogenic mechanism of TAF15‐induced neurotoxicity remains to be elucidated. Glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK‐3) plays a critical role in the protection of ALS pathology. In the present study, we use a transgenic fly model over‐expressing human TAF15 to study the protective effects of Shaggy/GSK3β on TAF15‐induced neuronal toxicity in Drosophila brain. Transgenic flies were examined for locomotor activity and lithium treatment. The expression level and solubility of TAF15 were assessed with western blotting, whereas immunohistochemistry was used to assess TAF15 aggregation in Drosophila brain. We have revealed that Shaggy/GSK3β was abnormally activated in neurons of TAF15‐expressing flies and its inhibition can suppress the defective phenotypes, thereby preventing retinal degeneration and locomotive activity caused by TAF15. We have also found that Shaggy/GSK3β inhibition in neuronal cells leads to a reduction in TAF15 levels. Indeed, the F‐box proteins Slimb and archipelago genetically interact with TAF15 and control TAF15 protein level in Drosophila. Importantly, SCFslimb is a critical regulator for Shaggy/GSK3β‐mediated suppression of TAF15‐induced toxicity in Drosophila. The present study has provided an in vivo evidence supporting the molecular mechanism of GSK3β inhibition for protection against TAF15‐linked proteinopathies.

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Aspects of colorectal cancer screening, methods, age and gender
Authors: Hultcrantz R.
Published: September 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is, besides breast, prostate, lung and skin cancers, the most common cancer worldwide and is suitable for screening. The incidence of CRC varies considerably in different parts of the world: in well‐developed countries, the incidence is between 30 and 70 per 100 000 inhabitants, whereas in less‐developed countries such as sub‐Saharan Africa, it is 10–20/100 000 inhabitants. Women have a lower incidence of CRC, which is usually one‐third of total incidence. Several studies have shown that it is possible to decrease mortality from CRC with about 20%, which is evidenced through the data from countries with screening programmes. Though the method of choice to identify blood samples in faecal matter is under debate, the most feasible way is to perform colonoscopy. Other methods include more advanced faecal analyses, testing for mutations from CRC, sigmoidoscopy, CT colonoscopy or optical colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is in most countries not available in sufficient amount and has to be carried out with great accuracy; otherwise, lesions will be missed to identify, thus leading to complications. Gender is an issue in CRC screening, as women have about 20% fewer colorectal adenomas and CRCs, but they also have more right‐sided lesions, which are more difficult to detect with tests for faecal blood since they create less blood in faeces. Thus, other strategies may have to be developed for women in order for screening to have the same effect. It is essential to introduce colorectal cancer screening in all countries together with other clinical pieces of advice such as information on smoking, obesity and exercise in order to reduce one of the most dangerous cancers.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of immunosuppressed patients hospitalized with COVID‐19: experience from London
Authors: Vaid N. , Ardissino M. , Reed T. A. N. , Goodall J. , Utting P. , Miscampbell M. , Condurache D. G. , Cohen D. L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a global health emergency. Despite the widely hypothesized role of a cytokine storm in disease severity, no study thus far has explored the association between immunosuppression and disease severity in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between the use of immunosuppressant medication and outcomes of patients hospitalized with COVID‐19.

Methods

Nine hundred and eighty‐one consecutive patients hospitalized between 12 March 2020 and 15 April 2020, who tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), were enrolled in this cohort study and subdivided by immunosuppression status. The patients were followed up for a minimum of 28 days (median 37 days) for the primary end‐point of mortality. Secondary end‐points included the composite of intubation or death, and the composite of mortality, intubation or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) requirement.

Results

During the follow‐up period, 354 (36.1%) of study patients died. The immunosuppressed cohort (n = 31) had significantly higher mortality rates (aHR: 2.067, 95% CI: 1.20–3.57, P = 0.009). There was no association between immunosuppression and the composite end‐point of mortality or intubation (aHR: 1.49 95% CI: 0.88–2.51, P = 0.14) and of the composite end‐point of mortality, intubation or CPAP (aHR: 1.36 95% CI: 0.81–2.30 P = 0.245).

Conclusion

In this cohort study of 981 confirmed COVID‐19 patients consecutively hospitalized at a large North West London hospital, immunosuppressant use was associated with significantly higher mortality rates. These results support the current UK government’s early isolation ('shielding') policy for these individuals and should be used to guide future research.
Functional Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy to Assess Central Pain Responses in a Nonpharmacologic Treatment Trial of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pollonini Luca , Montero‐Hernandez Samuel , Park Lindsey , Miao Hongyu , Mathis Kenneth , Ahn Hyochol
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common source of pain in older adults. Although OA‐induced pain can be relieved with analgesics and anti‐inflammatory drugs, the current opioid epidemic is fostering the exploration of nonpharmacologic strategies for pain mitigation. Amongs these, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and mindfulness‐based meditation (MBM) hold potential for pain‐relief efficacy due to their neuromodulatory effects of the central nervous system, which is known to play a fundamental role in pain perception and processing.

METHODS

In this double‐blind study, we used functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to investigate the effects of tDCS combined with MBM on underlying pain processing mechanisms at the central nervous level in older adults with knee OA. Nineteen subjects were randomly assigned to two groups undergoing a 10‐day active tDCS and MBM regimen and a sham tDCS and MBM regimen, respectively.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the neuromodulatory intervention significantly relieved pain only in the group receiving active treatment. We also found that only the active treatment group showed a significant increase in oxyhemoglobin activation of the superior motor and somatosensory cortices colocated to the placement of the tDCS anodal electrode. To our knowledge, this is the first study in which the combined effect of tDCS and MBM is investigated using fNIRS.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, fNIRS can be effectively used to investigate neural mechanisms of pain at the cortical level in association with nonpharmacological, self‐administered treatments.
Human sociality in the times of the Covid‐19 pandemic: A systematic examination of change in greetings
Authors: Mondada Lorenza , Bänninger Julia , Bouaouina Sofian A. , Camus Laurent , Gauthier Guillaume , Hänggi Philipp , Koda Mizuki , Svensson Hanna , Tekin Burak S.
Published: September 2020

Using multimodal conversation analysis this article examines embodied and tactile greetings in social interaction, documenting their change during the Covid‐19 pandemic. Recognizing social interaction as foundational for human sociality, we consider greetings as a crucial normative, organizational, and ritual practice for mutually engaging in intersubjective action. Analyses use video recordings made in Switzerland (featuring (Swiss‐)German and English as a lingua‐franca), focusing on embodied greetings of acquainted people in public spaces at the age of Covid19—a historical moment in which physical proximity and contact are targeted by official measures restricting social interactions. Studying a range of tactile embodied greetings, the paper shows how they change from routine greetings to hesitated, suspended yet still completed ones, and to projected but resisted and refused ones. Furthermore, it reveals some ‘new’ practices of greeting (elbow/feetbumps, hugs‐in‐the‐air) and their non‐straightforward and accountable character, as well as how they sediment and normalize during the pandemic.
NUMERICAL MODELLING OF THE AUSTRALIA – ANTARCTICA CONJUGATE MARGINS USING THE GALO SYSTEM: PART 2. THERMAL AND MATURATION HISTORY OF THE MAWSON SEA BASIN, EAST ANTARCTICA
Authors: Galushkin Y.I. , Leitchenkov G.L. , Dubinin E.P.
Published: September 2020

The thermal evolution of the Mawson Sea Basin, offshore East Antarctic, was modelled using the GALO basin modelling programme. As there exist no deep temperature or vitrinite reflectance data for the Mawson Sea Basin, the simulation was based on a limited nonthermal database. This includes the present‐day sedimentary section along a multichannel seismic profile which crosses the western part of the Mawson Sea along with geophysical assessments of the depth of the Moho. An analysis of the variations in tectonic subsidence was used to estimate the duration and magnitude of thermal activation or stretching of the lithosphere. This analysis suggested that a proportion of the lithospheric stretching took place before the start of synrift sediment deposition at about 160 Ma (Late Jurassic). This pre‐sedimentation lithospheric stretching has been ignored in previous studies, resulting in significant underestimation of the total stretching which has occurred. The analysis also suggests that the thermal maturity of Lower Jurassic potential source rocks along the profile may reach and even exceed the onset of the oil generation window, whereas source rocks in less deeply buried parts of the profile are less mature. In general, the results of the modelling indicate that the Mawson Sea Basin is a promising area for future oil and gas exploration.