bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating wildlife translocations using genomics: A bighorn sheep case study
Authors: Flesch Elizabeth P. , Graves Tabitha A. , Thomson Jennifer M. , Proffitt Kelly M. , White P. J. , Stephenson Thomas R. , Garrott Robert A.
Published: November 2020

Wildlife restoration often involves translocation efforts to reintroduce species and supplement small, fragmented populations. We examined the genomic consequences of bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) translocations and population isolation to enhance understanding of evolutionary processes that affect population genetics and inform future restoration strategies. We conducted a population genomic analysis of 511 bighorn sheep from 17 areas, including native and reintroduced populations that received 0–10 translocations. Using the Illumina High Density Ovine array, we generated datasets of 6,155 to 33,289 single nucleotide polymorphisms and completed clustering, population tree, and kinship analyses. Our analyses determined that natural gene flow did not occur between most populations, including two pairs of native herds that had past connectivity. We synthesized genomic evidence across analyses to evaluate 24 different translocation events and detected eight successful reintroductions (i.e., lack of signal for recolonization from nearby populations) and five successful augmentations (i.e., reproductive success of translocated individuals) based on genetic similarity with the source populations. A single native population founded six of the reintroduced herds, suggesting that environmental conditions did not need to match for populations to persist following reintroduction. Augmentations consisting of 18–57 animals including males and females succeeded, whereas augmentations of two males did not result in a detectable genetic signature. Our results provide insight on genomic distinctiveness of native and reintroduced herds, information on the relative success of reintroduction and augmentation efforts and their associated attributes, and guidance to enhance genetic contribution of augmentations and reintroductions to aid in bighorn sheep restoration.
UV radiation affects antipredatory defense traits in Daphnia pulex
Authors: Eshun‐Wilson Franceen , Wolf Raoul , Andersen Tom , Hessen Dag O. , Sperfeld Erik
Published: November 2020

In aquatic environments, prey perceive predator threats by chemical cues called kairomones, which can induce changes in their morphology, life histories, and behavior. Predator‐induced defenses have allowed for prey, such as Daphnia pulex, to avert capture by common invertebrate predators, such as Chaoborus sp. larvae. However, the influence of additional stressors, such as ultraviolet radiation (UVR), on the Daphnia–Chaoborus interaction is not settled as UVR may for instance deactivate the kairomone. In laboratory experiments, we investigated the combined effect of kairomones and UVR at ecologically relevant levels on induced morphological defenses of two D. pulex clones. We found that kairomones were not deactivated by UVR exposure. Instead, UVR exposure suppressed induced morphological defense traits of D. pulex juveniles under predation threat by generally decreasing the number of neckteeth and especially by decreasing the size of the pedestal beneath the neckteeth. UVR exposure also decreased the body length, body width, and tail spine length of juveniles, likely additionally increasing the vulnerability to Chaoborus predation. Our results suggest potential detrimental effects on fitness and survival of D. pulex subject to UVR stress, with consequences on community composition and food web structure in clear and shallow water bodies.
Repeated convergent evolution of parthenogenesis in Acariformes (Acari)
Authors: Pachl Patrick , Uusitalo Matti , Scheu Stefan , Schaefer Ina , Maraun Mark
Published: November 2020

The existence of old species‐rich parthenogenetic taxa is a conundrum in evolutionary biology. Such taxa point to ancient parthenogenetic radiations resulting in morphologically distinct species. Ancient parthenogenetic taxa have been proposed to exist in bdelloid rotifers, darwinulid ostracods, and in several taxa of acariform mites (Acariformes, Acari), especially in oribatid mites (Oribatida, Acari). Here, we investigate the diversification of Acariformes and their ancestral mode of reproduction using 18S rRNA. Because parthenogenetic taxa tend to be more frequent in phylogenetically old taxa of Acariformes, we sequenced a wide range of members of this taxon, including early‐derivative taxa of Prostigmata, Astigmata, Endeostigmata, and Oribatida. Ancestral character state reconstruction indicated that (a) Acariformes as well as Oribatida evolved from a sexual ancestor, (b) the primary mode of reproduction during evolution of Acariformes was sexual; however, species‐rich parthenogenetic taxa radiated independently at least four times (in Brachychthonioidea (Oribatida), Enarthronota (Oribatida), and twice in Nothrina (Oribatida), (c) parthenogenesis additionally evolved frequently in species‐poor taxa, for example,Tectocepheus,Oppiella,Rostrozetes,Limnozetes, andAtropacarus, and (d) sexual reproduction likely re‐evolved at least three times from species‐rich parthenogenetic clusters, inCrotonia(Nothrina), inMesoplophora/Apoplophora(Mesoplophoridae, Enarthronota), and inSphaerochthonius/Prototritia(Protoplophoridae, Enarthronota). We discuss possible reasons that favored the frequent diversification of parthenogenetic taxa including the continuous long‐term availability of dead organic matter resources as well as generalist feeding of species as indicated by natural variations in stable isotope ratios.
Vegetation cover at the water surface best explains seed retention in open channels
Authors: Rudi Gabrielle , Belaud Gilles , Troiano Sébastien , Bailly Jean‐Stéphane , Vinatier Fabrice
Published: November 2020

Hydrochorous dispersal through agricultural channels plays a role in structuring plant communities across agricultural landscapes. To date, research on seed retention in vegetated areas has mainly focused on vegetation types with simple architecture (often cylinders), which consequently do not represent real vegetation features. Here, we test the hypothesis that vegetation cover estimated at the water surface best explains floating seed retention in open channels. We therefore proposed an experiment to measure seed retention in a controlled environment across a large range of hydraulic conditions and vegetation architecture types. We used three types of artificial plants with contrasting morphotypes, and real seeds of Rumex crispus. Vegetation metrics were calculated on the basis of 3D plant models. We also tested the additivity of seed retention as a function of the length of vegetated area crossed by the seeds. We developed a semi‐empirical formula for predicting seed retention. The main results of the experiment show that (i) the seed retention rate reacts differently to changes in density according to species, (ii) vegetation cover at the free water surface, potentially in contact with seeds, is a generic predictor of floating seed retention whatever the nature of the vegetated cover, and (iii) 95% of seed retention was reached for a large range of surface vegetation ratios and length of vegetation cover. The proposed formula could be used by stakeholders (farmers and ecologists) to estimate the amount of vegetation needed in a channel to limit or enhance seed dispersal.
The characteristic time of ecological communities
Authors: Ontiveros Vicente J. , Capitán José A. , Casamayor Emilio O. , Alonso David
Published: November 2020

A simple description of temporal dynamics of ecological communities may help us understand how community assembly proceeds, predict ecological responses to environmental disturbances, and improve the performance of biological conservation actions. Although community changes take place at multiple temporal scales, the variation of species composition and richness over time across communities and habitats shows general patterns that may potentially reveal the main drivers of community dynamics. We used the simplest stochastic model of island biogeography to propose two quantities to characterize community dynamics: the community characteristic time, as a measure of the typical time scale of species‐richness change, and the characteristic Jaccard index, as a measure of temporal β diversity, that is, the variation of community composition over time. In addition, the community characteristic time, which sets the temporal scale at which null, noninteracting species assemblages operate, allowed us to define a relative sampling frequency (to the characteristic time). Here we estimate these quantities across microbial and macroscopic species assemblages to highlight two related results. First, we illustrated both characteristic time and Jaccard index and their relation with classic time‐series in ecology, and found that the most thoroughly sampled communities, relative to their characteristic time, presented the largest similarity between consecutive samples. Second, our analysis across a variety of habitats and taxa show that communities span a large range of species turnover, from potentially very fast (short characteristic times) to rather slow (long characteristic times) communities. This was in agreement with previous knowledge, but indicated that some habitats may have been sampled less frequently than required. Our work provides new perspectives to explore the temporal component in ecological studies and highlights the usefulness of simple approximations to the complex dynamics of ecological communities.
The role of epigenetics in the reproductive toxicity of environmental endocrine disruptors
Authors: Shi Yanbin , Qi Wen , Xu Qi , Wang Zheng , Cao Xiaolian , Zhou Liting , Ye Lin
Published: November 2020

Environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) seriously endanger human health by interfering with the normal function of reproductive systems. In males, EEDs can affect sperm formation and semen quality as well spermatogenesis, ultimately reducing fertility. In females, EEDs can affect uterine development and the expression levels of reproduction‐related genes, ultimately reducing female fertility and the normal development of the fetus. There are a large number of putative mechanisms by which EEDs can induce reproductive toxicity, and many studies have shown the involvement of epigenetics. In this review, we summarize the role of DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, genomic imprinting, chromatin remodeling and histone modification in the reproductive toxicity of EEDs.
Recent Developments of Preintercalated Cathodes for Rechargeable Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fan Zixuan , He Wei , Ni Meng , Zhang Peigeng , Tian Wubian , Zhang Wei , Pan Long , Sun ZhengMing
Published: November 2020

Rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are regarded as a promising candidate for next‐generation green energy storage systems owing to their high safety, low‐cost, and low toxicity. Metal oxides with layered or tunnel structure are commonly applied as cathodes for ZIBs, but the electrochemical performance is severely limited by the structure collapse and sluggish diffusion kinetics. Preintercalating guest species into host structure is an effective strategy to solve these problems. Herein, a comprehensive overview on the recent developments of intercalation strategy in ZIBs is presented. The category and effect of guest species used in different cathode materials are presented. The issues and future research prospects in intercalation strategy are also discussed in this review.
An empirical study on the role of trading volume and data frequency in volatility forecasting
Authors: Liu Min , Lee Chien‐Chiang , Choo Wei‐Chong
Published: November 2020

This research investigates the role of trading volume and data frequency in volatility forecasting by evaluating the performance of Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity Mixed‐Data Sampling (GARCH‐MIDAS), traditional GARCH, and intraday GARCH models. We take trading volume as the proxy for information flow and examine whether the Sequential Information Arrival Hypothesis (SIAH) is supported in the China stock market. The contributions of this study are as follows. (1) We provide a more consistent comparison to evaluate the forecasting ability of the MIDAS approach. (2) We extend the literature on the forecasting performance of trading volume to the GARCH‐MIDAS approach. (3) We present clear evidence to support that forecasting ability strongly relies upon data frequency. The empirical results show that: (1) GARCH‐MIDAS is not able to beat the traditional GARCH method when both are estimated by the same predictor sampled at different frequencies; (2) there is a positive relation between trading volume and volatility, but no clear evidence appears that SIAH holds in the China stock market; and (3) high‐frequency data are highly recommended for daily realized volatility (RV) forecasting, whereas intraday GARCH could significantly outperform traditional GARCH and GARCH‐MIDAS in volatility forecasting.
Perceived Ecological Threats and Economic Benefits of Non-Native Black Bass in the United States
Authors: Seguy Lauren , Long James M
Published: November 2020

Black bass Micropterus spp. are highly sought-after sport fish and, where introduced, are emblematic of the tradeoffs between ensuring productive fisheries and conserving native biodiversity. To disentangle these potentially conflicting interests, we administered a survey of fisheries biologists in the United States to assess perceptions regarding ecological and economic impacts of non-native black bass between anthropogenic and natural habitats. Our results indicate that non-native black bass are generally considered economically beneficial in both habitat types. Contrastingly, these species were perceived to have significantly more negative ecological impacts in natural than anthropogenic habitats. Our findings suggest that habitat may be an important factor to partition the conflicting ecological–economic dynamic of non-native black bass. Implications of this study suggest that challenges remain for managers attempting to balance the paradoxical nature of these species as both desired sport fishes and as potentially harmful invaders when found outside their native range.
Effects of screw configuration on chemical properties and ginsenosides content of extruded ginseng
Authors: Zhang Yu , Jin Tie , Ryu Gihyung , Gao Yuxuan
Published: November 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of screw configuration on chemical properties and ginsenosides content of extruded ginseng and to select the most suitable screw configuration for the processing of ginseng.

Method

The extrusion conditions were set as follows: moisture content (20%), barrel temperature (140°C), screw speed (200 rpm), and feeding rate (100 g/min).

Result

The extruded ginseng of screw configuration 6 has the highest DPPH free radical scavenging rate, reducing power and total phenol, which is the most suitable configuration for the development of ginseng extract products. In addition, the extruded ginseng of screw configuration 9 has the highest content of total saponin, and the content of rare ginsenoside Rg3 which is scarcely present in the ginseng raw material powder was significantly increased. This intended that twin‐screw extrusion process enables the mutual conversion between ginsenosides and rare ginsenoside Rg3 had achieved.

Conclusion

The extrusion process promotes the development and utilization of ginseng and provides theoretical basis for the design and development of screw configuration of twin‐screw extruded ginseng.
Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells support remyelination in a murine model of multiple sclerosis by promoting oligodendrocyte precursor cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation
Authors: Melero‐Jerez Carolina , Fernández‐Gómez Beatriz , Lebrón‐Galán Rafael , Ortega Maria Cristina , Sánchez‐de Lara Irene , Ojalvo Ana Cristina , Clemente Diego , de Castro Fernando
Published: November 2020

The most frequent variant of multiple sclerosis (MS) is the relapsing–remitting form, characterized by symptomatic phases followed by periods of total/partial recovery. Hence, it is possible that these patients can benefit from endogenous agents that control the inflammatory process and favor spontaneous remyelination. In this context, there is increasing interest in the role of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) during the clinical course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). MDSCs speed up infiltrated T‐cell anergy and apoptosis. In different animal models of MS, a milder disease course is related to higher presence/density of MDSCs in the periphery, and smaller demyelinated lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). These observations lead us to wonder whether MDSCs might not only exert an anti‐inflammatory effect but might also have direct influence on oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and remyelination. In the present work, we reveal for the first time the relationship between OPCs and MDSCs in EAE, relationship that is guided by the distance from the inflammatory core. We describe the effects of MDSCs on survival, proliferation, as well as potent promoters of OPC differentiation toward mature phenotypes. We show for the first time that osteopontin is remarkably present in the analyzed secretome of MDSCs. The ablation of this cue from MDSCs‐secretome demonstrates that osteopontin is the main MDSC effector on these oligodendroglial cells. These data highlight a crucial pathogenic interaction between innate immunity and the CNS, opening ways to develop MDSC‐ and/or osteopontin‐based therapies to promote effective myelin preservation and repair in MS patients.
Information and sin goods: Experimental evidence on cigarettes
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine , Buckell John
Published: November 2020

We test the importance of information source on consumer choice in the context of sin goods, specifically electronic and tobacco cigarettes, among adult smokers. We proxy choice with intentions to vape and quit smoking in the next 30 days. We experimentally vary the information source: government, private companies, physicians, and no source. Our findings suggest that information source matters in the context of cigarettes choice for adult smokers. Private companies appear to be an important information source for cigarettes among adult smokers.
The persistence of medicare advantage spillovers in the post‐Affordable Care Act era
Authors: Feyman Yevgeniy , Pizer Steven D. , Frakt Austin B.
Published: November 2020

Spillovers can arise in markets with multiple purchasers relying on shared producers. Prior studies have found such spillovers in health care, from managed care to nonmanaged care populations—reducing spending and utilization, and improving outcomes, including in Medicare. This study provides the first plausibly causal estimates of such spillovers from Medicare Advantage (MA) to Traditional Medicare (TM) in the post‐Affordable Care Act era using an instrumental variables approach. Controlling for health status and other potential confounders, we estimate that a one percentage point increase in county‐level MA penetration results in a $64 (95% CI: $18 to $110) (0.7%) reduction in standardized per‐enrollee TM spending. We find evidence for reductions in utilization both on the intensive and extensive margins, across a number of health care services. Our results complement and extend prior work that found spillovers from MA to TM in earlier years and under different payment policies than are in place today.
Prior chemoradiotherapy and pathological perineural invasion predict the survival outcomes of salvage surgery in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Akali Nisha Rajrattansingh , Buggaveeti Rahul , Sukumaran Sheejamol Velickakathu , Balasubramanian Deepak , Iyer Subramania , Thankappan Krishnakumar
Published: November 2020

Background

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the oncological outcomes of salvage surgery in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of all patients of SCCHN with recurrence or second primary, post‐treatment, who underwent salvage surgery. The outcomes were analyzed in terms of overall survival, overall survival postsalvage surgery and disease‐free survival (DFS) postsalvage surgery. Clinical and pathological predictors were considered.

Results

Two hundred and forty‐one patients were included. The mean follow‐up was 56.33 months. Five‐year survival OS from date of initial diagnosis of the tumor was 61.2%. The 5‐year OS survival after salvage surgery was 47.1%. Five‐year DFS after salvage surgery was 28.1%. Prior chemoradiotherapy and pathological perineural invasion were independent predictors on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Survival outcomes after appropriate salvage treatment are good. Prior chemoradiotherapy and perineural invasion on salvage pathology are predictors of poorer outcomes.
Rare case of metastatic liposarcoma to the thyroid gland and a review of the literature of metastatic sarcomas to the thyroid
Authors: Xing Monica H. , Mundi Neil , Govindan Aparna , Khorsandi Azita , Brandwein‐Weber Margaret , Matloob Ammar , Liaw Bobby , Urken Mark L.
Published: November 2020

Background

Liposarcomas are the second most common type of soft tissue sarcomas. Typically, myxoid liposarcomas have a metastatic rate of 10%, usually involving the retroperitoneal space, abdomen, and spine. Metastasis to the thyroid is extremely rare.

Design/Method

A 62‐year‐old male with a history of metastatic myxoid liposarcoma in his right thigh presented to our clinic for evaluation of a thyroid nodule incidentally identified on a CT scan. A subsequent FNA biopsy was suggestive of a metastatic liposarcoma.

Results

The patient underwent a left thyroid lobectomy and final pathology confirmed a grade II/III metastatic myxoid liposarcoma that measured 3.3 cm. The patient tolerated the procedure well.

Conclusions

Our case highlights the role of a patient's medical history when evaluating thyroid nodules to optimize accurate diagnosis, as liposarcomas do not typically metastasize to the thyroid. We also provide an updated review of the literature on all cases of metastatic sarcomas to the thyroid.
Cirrhosis and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection in US Veterans: Risk of Infection, Hospitalization, Ventilation, and Mortality
Authors: Ioannou George N. , Liang Peter S. , Locke Emily , Green Pamela , Berry Kristin , O’Hare Ann M. , Shah Javeed A. , Crothers Kristina , Eastment McKenna C. , Fan Vincent S. , Dominitz Jason A.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims

Whether patients with cirrhosis have increased risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection and the extent to which infection and cirrhosis increase the risk of adverse patient outcomes remain unclear.

Approach and Results

We identified 88,747 patients tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 between March 1, 2020, and May 14, 2020, in the Veterans Affairs (VA) national health care system, including 75,315 with no cirrhosis–SARS‐CoV‐2‐negative (C0‐S0), 9,826 with no cirrhosis–SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive (C0‐S1), 3,301 with cirrhosis–SARS‐CoV‐2‐negative (C1‐S0), and 305 with cirrhosis–SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive (C1‐S1). Patients were followed through June 22, 2020. Hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and death were modeled in time‐to‐event analyses using Cox proportional hazards regression. Patients with cirrhosis were less likely to test positive than patients without cirrhosis (8.5% vs. 11.5%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.69‐0.99). Thirty‐day mortality and ventilation rates increased progressively from C0‐S0 (2.3% and 1.6%) to C1‐S0 (5.2% and 3.6%) to C0‐S1 (10.6% and 6.5%) and to C1‐S1 (17.1% and 13.0%). Among patients with cirrhosis, those who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 were 4.1 times more likely to undergo mechanical ventilation (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 4.12; 95% CI, 2.79‐6.10) and 3.5 times more likely to die (aHR, 3.54; 95% CI, 2.55‐4.90) than those who tested negative. Among patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, those with cirrhosis were more likely to be hospitalized (aHR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.12‐1.66), undergo ventilation (aHR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.05‐2.46) or die (aHR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.18‐2.30) than patients without cirrhosis. Among patients with cirrhosis and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, the most important predictors of mortality were advanced age, cirrhosis decompensation, and high Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score.

Conclusions

SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was associated with a 3.5‐fold increase in mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Cirrhosis was associated with a 1.7‐fold increase in mortality in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Effects of Korean red ginseng on human gray matter volume and cognitive function: A voxel‐based morphometry study
Authors: Namgung Eun , Kim Jungyoon , Jeong Hyeonseok , Hong Gahae , Kim Myeongju , Kim Rye Young , Kim Shinhye , Lyoo In Kyoon
Published: November 2020

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) supplementation on gray matter volume of the human brain which could be related to cognitive enhancing effects of KRG.

Methods

In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, 51 healthy individuals were assigned to receive either KRG (1000 mg/day, n = 26) or placebo (n = 25) for 8 weeks. Gray matter volume of the whole brain was measured using voxel‐based morphometry based on high‐resolution T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images acquired at baseline and week 8. The standardized composite cognitive scores of executive function, attention, and memory were also evaluated at baseline and week 8. Changes in gray matter volume as well as the composite cognitive scores were compared between the KRG and placebo groups.

Results

Following 8 weeks of KRG supplementation, the gray matter volume of the left parahippocampal gyrus increased significantly in the KRG group, relative to the placebo group (p for interaction < 0.001). The KRG group also showed greater magnitude of enhancement in the composite cognitive scores relative to the placebo group (p for interaction = 0.03).

Conclusions

Gray matter volume increase in the parahippocampus may be a key neural change as induced by KRG supplementation, which could be associated with cognitive enhancement.
Effects of permafrost degradation on thermokarst lake hydrochemistry in the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Gao Zeyong , Niu Fujun , Lin Zhanju
Published: November 2020

Thermokarst lakes play a key role in the hydrological and biogeochemical cycles of permafrost regions. Current knowledge regarding the changes caused by permafrost degradation to the hydrochemistry of lakes in the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP) is limited. To address this gap, a systematic investigation of thermokarst lake water, suprapermafrost water, ground ice, and precipitation was conducted in the hinterland of the QTP. The thermokarst lake water in the QTP was identified to be of the Na‐HCO3‐Cl type. The mean concentrations of HCO3− and Na+ were 281.8 mg L−1 (146.0–546.2 mg L−1) and 73.3 mg L−1 (9.2–345.8 mg L−1), respectively. The concentrations of Li+, NH4+, K+, F−, NO2−, and NO3− were relatively low. Freeze‐out fractionation concentrated the dissolved solids within the lake water during winter, which was deeply deepened on lake depth and lake ice thickness. Owing to solute enrichment, the ground ice was characterized by high salinity. Conversely, repeated replenishment via precipitation led to lower solute concentrations in the ground ice near the permafrost table compared to that within the permafrost. Although lower solute concentration existed in precipitation, the soil leaching and saline ground ice melting processes enhanced the solute load in suprapermafrost water, which is considered an important water and solute resource in thermokarst lakes. The influencing mechanism of permafrost degradation on thermokarst lake hydrochemistry is presumably linked to: (1) the liberation of soluble materials sequestered in ground ice; (2) the increase of solutes in suprapermafrost water and soil pore water; and (3) the changes in lake morphometry. These results have major implications on the understanding of the effects of ground ice melting on ecosystem functions, biogeochemical processes, and energy balance in a rapidly changing climate.
Aortic isthmus Doppler in normal and small‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses and its association with prediction of adverse perinatal outcome
Authors: Sharma K. Aparna , Swami Shilpa , Dadhwal Vatsla , Perumal Vanamail , Deka Dipika
Published: November 2020

Objective

To establish reference ranges for aortic isthmus Doppler indices in appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age (AGA) fetusesand to evaluate its association with perinatal outcome in small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetuses.

Methods

Prospective cohort observational study in which 30 pregnant women with SGA fetuses and 60 women with AGA fetuses were recruited from the prenatal clinic of the hospital. The AGA group was eventually followed from 24 weeks by 4‐weekly Doppler assessment, and the SGA group was examined as per institutional protocol. We analyzed the data using STATA version 14.0 statistical software. Continuous variables were examined for normality assumption using the Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test. To develop a nomogram for appropriate gestational age, we adopted a mixed linear model analysis. For each of the variables Ao pulsatility index (PI), Ao peak systolic velocity (PSV), Ao systolic nadir (Ns), and Ao isthmic systolic index (ISI) mean predicted values, 3rd centile and 97th centile were calculated based on the parameter estimation of mixed model. Observed data for each of the variables in the SGA group were plotted in the nomogram developed for the AGA group to show the trend of SGA data in comparison to AGA data.

Results

The total number of observations made on 60 AGA and 30 SGA fetuses were 240 and 67, respectively. Nomograms for the 3rd and 97th centiles were derived for Ao PI, Ao PSV, Ao Ns, and Ao ISI. Mean Ao PI values were significantly higher in SGA group (2.37 vs 2.22; P < .05); mean Ao PSV was significantly lower in the SGA group (67.1 vs 76.3; P < .05), but mean Ao Ns and mean Ao ISI values were significantly higher in the SGA group (–5.24 vs 2.0 and –0.04 vs –0.01; P < .05).

Conclusions

Aortic Doppler assessment seems to provide beneficial information for monitoring small fetuses. Ao PI and Ao ISI, which were raised in fetuses with SGA, can be used in prognosis.
Can in vitro maturation overcome cycles with repeated oocyte maturation arrest? A classification system for maturation arrest and a cohort study
Authors: Hatirnaz Safak , Başbuğ Alper , Hatirnaz Ebru , Tannus Samer , Hatirnaz Kaan , Bakay Kadir , Dahan Michael H.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To investigate the role of gonadotropin‐stimulated and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) ‐primed in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM) in cases of repeated in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure due to various forms of oocyte maturation arrest (OMA).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study.

Results

In all, 63 women with IVF failure due to OMA were evaluated in this study. According to the Hatirnaz & Dahan classification, 11 (17.5%) women were OMA type 1, 22 (34.9%) were OMA type 2, 0 were OMA type 3, 11 (17.5%) were OMA type 4, and 19 women were OMA type 5 (30.1%). Fewer oocytes were retrieved in the IVM than in the IVF cycles. No embryos were produced from oocytes collected in the IVM cycles of women with OMA types 1, 2, and 4. In the OMA type 5 group, 9 (47.4%) day 2 embryos and 6 (31.6%) day 3 embryos were obtained. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (P = 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively). Single day 3 embryo transfer was performed for the six patients with OMA type 5 but no clinical pregnancies occurred.

Conclusions

Follicle‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated and hCG‐primed IVM does not improve oocyte maturation, developmental potential, or pregnancy rates of women with OMA. Future studies directed to re‐establishing normal cytoskeletal architecture and machinery, and resumption of meiosis may be beneficial for obtaining mature oocytes.
Anatomical‐functional image fusion based on deep convolution neural networks in local Laplacian pyramid domain
Authors: Huang Yuping , Li Weisheng , Du Jiao
Published: November 2020

Medical image fusion technology makes clinical diagnosis and treatment more accurate. This technique can solve the existing problem that single mode medical images conveying insufficient information. Therefore, the key to this technology is to retain as much as possible information in the original medical image of multiple modes. However, the existing methods often lose source image detail with a low contrast and cause color distortion. This article proposed a novel multi‐modal medical image fusion framework. Our framework has four key steps. First, extracting the super‐resolution images from anatomical images via a deep neural network is performed. Second, decomposing the source images into detail‐enhanced approximate and residual images, and then processing by local Laplacian filtering. Third, a convolution neural network is used to complete the mapping of the source image to the feature map and the local energy‐based strategy is used to integrate the coefficients. Finally, the inversed local Laplacian pyramid is adopted to reconstruct the fused image. The experimental results prove that the fused image via the proposed method has the characteristics of high contrast, high brightness, and high color saturation and great advantages in retaining the color and structural information.
An assessment of farmers' perspective in support of the modernization of national irrigation systems in the Philippines*
Authors: Delos Reyes Mona Liza F. , Schultz Bart
Published: November 2020

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has been involving farmer‐irrigators of national irrigation systems (NIS) in planning system improvement and management since the 1980s. It has conducted various organization‐strengthening and capacity‐building programmes for members of irrigators associations. Unfortunately, unauthorized diversions, vandalism of structures, over‐irrigation in upstream farms while downstream farms fall dry, conflicts over water distribution, and non‐adoption of field‐demonstrated water‐saving techniques still occur in several systems.

Consultation‐workshops were conducted with farmer representatives of two small‐scale NIS to gain understanding of the causes of such social disharmony, which hinders good system performance. The present case study was specifically aimed at the following: examining the farmer‐irrigators' desired physical structures, system operation, water distribution rules, and institutional arrangements for their respective NIS vis‐à‐vis their envisioned quality of water delivery service; determining the levels of consistency of the desired irrigation technology and techniques; and generating data input for formulating programmes aimed at enhancing farmer‐irrigators' appreciation of the operational procedures and mechanisms of water delivery.

The results of the consultation‐workshops showed conflicting farmers' preferences for system modernization options. The findings implied that a participatory approach to system modernization planning would be more fruitful when farmers are equipped to make informed choices on possible improvement solutions.
Comparative proteomic analysis reveals cytotoxicity induced by graphene oxide exposure in A549 cells
Authors: Liao Yanyan , Wang Weiyi , Li Zhihui , Wang Yahong , Zhang Lu , Huang Xiaomei , Cai Peng
Published: November 2020

Several studies in recent years have demonstrated the broad application prospects of graphene and its derivatives in many fields such as composite material industry, energy storage, antimicrobial materials, and biomedicine. Large‐scale production and wide application also bring greater potential exposure risks, and there has been an increasing concern about the potential health hazards of graphene nanomaterials. In the present study, we exploited nonlabeled proteomics and bioinformatics analysis to examine the proteomic response to graphene oxide (GO) and unveil a systematic view of molecular targets and possible mechanisms underlying cytotoxicity of GO in A549 cells. Overall, 89 proteins were found to be differentially expressed at different exposure levels. These differentially expressed proteins were involved in several biological processes and signal transduction pathways such as messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing, negative regulation of plasminogen activation, extracellular matrix organization, positive regulation of cell migration, complement and coagulation cascades, p53 signaling pathway, and transcriptional misregulation in cancer. It is suggested that GO may exert toxic effects on cells by regulating gene transcription, immune response, cell growth, and apoptosis. Ingenuity pathway analysis showed that SMARCA4, TGF‐β1, and TP53 were located at the center of the protein interaction network and considered as key node proteins regulating GO toxicity. In general, these findings will augment our knowledge of the involved mechanisms and aid in developing develop useful biomarkers for GO‐induced pulmonary toxicity.
Tax avoidance and over‐investment: The role of the information environment
Authors: Ha Joohyung , Feng Mingming
Published: November 2020

We investigate whether the association between tax avoidance and over‐investment is moderated by a firm's information environment. Prior research (Blaylock, 2016) finds no association between tax avoidance and over‐investment, but the study did not consider the impact of financial reporting quality (FRQ). It seems likely that FRQ is a moderating variable because Balakrishnan, Blouin, and Guay (2012) find that a firm's information environment is affected by tax planning while Biddle and Hilary (2006) find that FRQ is negatively associated with investment. We find that tax avoidance is positively associated with over‐investment when the information environment is weak, and that having a richer information environment mitigates this association. Our results are robust across multiple measures of tax avoidance and multiple proxies for the quality of the information environment. In addition, our results hold after propensity score matching, controlling for governance and the firm's internal resources, partitioning on managerial ability, and in a change analysis. These findings highlight the important role of financial information in corporate investment behavior and enhance our understanding of the link between tax avoidance and agency costs.
Construction and validation of a self‐direction measure for mental health care
Authors: de Vries Arie , Tiemens Bea , Cillessen Linda , Hutschemaekers Giel
Published: November 2020

Objective

The aims were to describe and develop a measure of the concept of the active self as self‐direction and to assess the extent to which clients in a mental healthcare setting were becoming self‐directive instead of being directed by their therapist.

Methods

A panel of experts was formed to discuss the concept self‐direction and to formulate a tentative model of self‐direction. An initial questionnaire was constructed. A cross‐section of clients completed the questionnaire to evaluate its validity and reliability with exploratory factor analysis.

Results

A 31‐item questionnaire was constructed that included six factors that measured actorship, commitment, demoralization, readiness, understanding, and monitoring progress and two broader underlying factors called gaining control and loss of control.

Conclusion

The developed questionnaire measures the degree to which people are experiencing self‐direction in their lives, and their capability of solving their problems.
Antiretrovirals for Prophylaxis Against COVID‐19: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Alavian Golbarg , Kolahdouzan Kasra , Mortezazadeh Masoud , Torabi Zahra Sadat
Published: November 2020

Although people living with human immunodeficiency virus and other comorbidities are expected to experience more grievous consequences with corona virus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), recent cohort studies did not indicate this. Antiretrovirals (ARVs) might have a prophylactic role in these patients. The purpose of this study was to review the most recently published articles on the possible role of ARVs for pre‐ or postexposure prophylaxis against COVID‐19. From June to October 2020, we searched scientific databases using specific key words to identify ongoing trials or articles published before October 2020 investigating any subgroups of ARVs for prophylaxis against COVID‐19. Apart from molecular docking studies, in vitro, animal, and human studies are very limited for evaluating the prophylactic role of ARVs against severe acute respiratory syndrome‐corona virus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. According to our findings, there is no definite evidence to support use of protease inhibitors for this purpose, despite the promising results of molecular studies and limited clinical evidence for ritonavir‐boosted lopinavir, darunavir, and nelfinavir when used early in the course of the disease. Nucleotide/nucleoside reverse‐transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) also have shown binding affinity to main enzymes of SARS‐CoV‐2 in molecular, in vitro, and animal studies. NRTIs like tenofovir and emtricitabine might exhibit a prophylactic role against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. In conclusion, currently there is no evidence to justify the use of ARVs for prophylaxis against COVID‐19.
Correlation between Advanced Dental Admission Test performance and dental MATCH success
Authors: Deek Joseph , Albright David A. , John Vanchit , Tang Qing , Stewart Kelton T.
Published: November 2020

Purpose/Objectives

The Advanced Dental Admissions Test was developed in 2016 to aid residency programs evaluate qualified applicants. Since its conception, however, there have been no studies seeking to evaluate the usefulness of the exam regarding an applicants’ ability to match with a residency program through the Postdoctoral Dental Matching Program (MATCH). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the Advanced Dental Admission Test performance on student MATCH success into a post‐doctoral pediatric residency program.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated the academic records of pediatric residency applicants using the ADEA PASS and MATCH program between 2017 and 2019. Five scholastic and 7 demographic variables were extracted from student ADEA PASS applications. Applicant MATCH status and preference was obtained from the Postdoctoral Dental Matching Program. Descriptive statistics for each application cycle was calculated and used to evaluate applicant demographic and scholastic data. Correlation coefficients assessed for associations between scholastic/demographic factors and MATCH status/preference. Logistic regression models estimated the probability of MATCH status/preference. Significance was set at 5%.

Results

An association was found between ADAT scores and MATCH status, but the influence was minimal (odds ratio: 1.004, 95% confidence interval: 1.001‐1.008). Applicant age (P < 0.0216) and dental schools that ranked students (P < 0.0002) were the most significant factors for MATCH status and preference, respectively.

Conclusions

ADAT scores played a minimal role in applicants matching to pediatric residency programs. Applicant age and schools that provide class ranks were found to be significant predictors when considering MATCH status and preference to pediatric residency programs.
Morphological and scanning electron microscopic studies of the lingual papillae of the tongue of the goat (Capra hircus)
Authors: Mahdy Mohamed A. A. , Abdalla Kamal E. H. , Mohamed Salma A.
Published: November 2020

The morphology of different lingual papillae of the Egyptian goats was studied by gross observation, scanning electron microscopy, and light microscopy. According to function, two types of papillae were present; mechanical (filiform, conical and lenticular papillae) and gustatory papillae (fungiform and vallate papillae). Two types of filiform papillae were detected with different shape and position. Moreover, two types of conical and lenticular papillae could be recognized on the lingual torus. Abundant fungiform papillae were found on the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the tip of the tongue. The vallate papillae had also different shapes. Taste buds were demonstrated within the epithelium of the dorsal surfaces of the fungiform papillae and the lateral surfaces of the vallate papillae. In addition, a longitudinal row of large papillae was located on the lateral aspect of the tongue in relation to the filiform papillae. These papillae were suggested to be called elongated conical papillae and may be considered as ones of the lingual papillae. In conclusion, the current study provides a detailed description of the different lingual papillae of the Egyptian goat's tongue. Presence of different types and shapes of mechanical and gustatory lingual papillae in goats' tongue suggests a high degree of functional adaptation to their diet.
Authentication of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Trucz.) Schischk and its two adulterants based on their macroscopic morphology and microscopic characteristics
Authors: Chang Furui , Yu Donghui , Wang Huan , Qu Shouhe , Wang Dongmei , Liu Xiaoqiu , Pan Yingni
Published: November 2020

“Fangfeng” in Chinese Materia Medica refers to the dried root of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Trucz.) Schischk. The confusion regarding the species emerged centuries ago. Various medicinal plants from the family Umbelliferae have been documented under the name Fangfeng or other similar names in different areas of China. However, the efficacy and chemical profiles of these herbs can vary widely. In recent years, studies on medicinal material markets have revealed that “ChoutaiFangfeng” and “ShiFangfeng” are sold as Fangfeng. Previous studies on the differences among these herbs were not accurate; therefore, comprehensive authentication of these species is required. Investigation of the microscopic features of the transverse sections and powders of herbs is of great significance in identifying traditional Chinese medicine. This approach offers the advantages of easy operation and rapid results. In this study, microscopic observation of cross‐sectional tissues and powders of the herbs was performed using common light microscopy and polarized light microscopy, respectively, to identify Fangfeng, ChoutaiFangfeng, and ShiFangfeng. We found that phloem, clefts, and other significant tissue characteristics can be used to distinguish Fangfeng herbs. The developed method can also be applied to distinguish counterfeits of Fangfeng. Moreover, the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of Fangfeng and its two adulterants were determined.