bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understand role of COVID‐19 in contractual obligations
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: June 2020

It's common knowledge: COVID‐19’s impact on student‐athletes, coaches, and staff members of every athletics department has been substantial. At the same time, however, the legal and business sides of an athletics department's operations are truly at the epicenter of much of the required activity. Indeed, in regard to other campus departments, only a few have as many daily, weekly, and ongoing contractual obligations with outside entities as athletics. The true magnitude of the business side of athletics became quickly apparent when existing arrangements for trips, hotels, buses, planes, equipment, supplies, food, services, and support personnel for numerous teams had to be canceled within a short period of time. Although cancellations took care of the short‐term commitments, athletics departments still need to address many broader and potentially more impactful contractual obligations.
Experts weigh in on economic sustainability in light of pandemic's effect on athletics
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2020

Yes, we can all expect the COVID‐19 crisis to have a significant financial impact on college athletics and some very real costs for schools nationwide. But that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do to soften the blow. In fact, you can make a big difference by taking some very practical steps recommended by financial experts during a virtual forum hosted by Tom McMillen, President and Chief Executive Officer of the LEAD1 Association. Here's an overview of the guidance provided by Ronald Nahass, C.F.E., A.S.A., Director of Financial Consulting; and Steve Mermelstein, M.B.A., Director of Management Consulting, both at RSM US LLP, an audit, tax, and consulting firm.
Emphasize communication during times of change, crisis
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2020

After the COVID‐19 crisis brought sports activities to a sudden halt, college athletics staff worked on developing new ways to handle daily responsibilities. This included adapting to new communication methods in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Phytochemical and Biological Characterization of Methanolic Extracts from Rumex algeriensis and Rumex tunetanus
Authors: Abidi Jouda , Occhiuto Cristina , Cimino Francesco , Speciale Antonio , Ruberto Giuseppe , Siracusa Laura , Bouaziz Mohamed , Boumendjel Mahieddine , Muscarà Claudia , Saija Antonina , Cristani Mariateresa
Published: June 2020

The present study is aimed at the evaluation of the phytochemical profile and the biochemical properties of methanolic extracts obtained from different parts of Rumex algeriensis and Rumex tunetanus, two relict species limited to the North Africa. Phytochemical analyses of these extracts were performed using standard colorimetric procedures, HPLC‐DAD, and HPLC‐DAD‐ESI/MS, and their antioxidant/free radical scavenging capability was estimated through several in vitro cell‐free assays. Moreover, the anti‐inflammatory potential of these extracts was demonstrated in an in vitro model of acute intestinal inflammation using differentiated Caco‐2 cells. The results showed that all the extracts appeared endowed with excellent antioxidant/free radical scavenging properties. In particular, the extracts from both R. algeriensis and R. tunetanus flowers, and that from R. algeriensis stems were characterized by a remarkable SOD‐like and NO‐scavenging activity, as well as by the capability to protect albumin against HClO‐induced degradation. Furthermore, the extracts from flowers of both Rumex species, as well as R. algeriensis stems, showed an anti‐inflammatory effect in intestinal epithelial cells, as demonstrated by the inhibition of TNF‐α‐induced gene expression of IL‐6 and IL‐8. In conclusion, R. algeriensis and R. tunetanus have shown to be potential sources of bioactive products to be used in the prevention and treatment of pathologies related to oxidative stress and inflammation.
Fluorophosphonate‐Based Degrader Identifies Degradable Serine Hydrolases by Quantitative Proteomics
Authors: Field S. Denise , Lee Wankyu , Dutra Jason K. , Serneo Finley Scott F. , Oyer Jon , Xu Hua , Johnson Douglas S. , am Ende Christopher W. , Seneviratne Uthpala
Published: June 2020

Novel chemical biology probes linking a serine hydrolase‐directed fluorophosphonate warhead and cereblon‐binding pomalidomide were assessed for the degradation of serine hydrolases. A quantitative proteomics approach to detect degraded proteins revealed that, despite the engagement of ∼40 serine hydrolases, degradation was achieved for only a single serine hydrolase, lysophospholipase II (LYPLA2).
Degenerated TiO2 Semiconductor Modified with Ni and Zn as Efficient Photocatalysts for the Water Splitting Reaction
Authors: Neaţu Florentina , Abramiuc Laura E. , Trandafir Mihaela M. , Negrea Raluca F. , Florea Mihaela , Teodorescu Cristian M. , Neaţu Stefan
Published: June 2020

The development of robust, safe, cost‐effective and efficient photocatalytic systems for water splitting should take into account the presence of a proper and powerful photon absorber and an efficient, low‐cost and earth‐abundant electrocatalyst to perform the reaction at high conversions. In this study, Ni−Zn/TiO2 ternary composites with high photocatalytic activity for water splitting under UV irradiation were successfully prepared via a simple and low‐cost deposition‐precipitation route. Thus, different Ni : Zn molar ratios (1 : 0, 1 : 1, 3 : 1, 6 : 1, 9 : 1, and 0 : 1) were deposited on TiO2 in order to reach a total metal loading of 50 wt. %. The obtained composites were characterized using several techniques, such as: X‐ray diffraction, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The most active synthesized composite, namely Ni−Zn/TiO2 (9 : 1), exhibits H2 generation rate above 17 mmols g−1 h−1, which is nearly one thousand times higher than that obtained with TiO2 Evonik P25. Our study demonstrates that TiO2 becomes a degenerated semiconductor in the presence of Ni and ZnO, with remarkable photocatalytic properties. Thus, the obtained results can open new opportunities in the preparation of very active materials for hydrogen production based on the optimization of three‐component structures.
A Phosphinine‐Derived 1‐Phospha‐7‐Bora‐Norbornadiene: Frustrated Lewis Pair Type Activation of Triple Bonds
Authors: Leitl Julia , Jupp Andrew R. , Habraken Evi R. M. , Streitferdt Verena , Coburger Peter , Scott Daniel J. , Gschwind Ruth M. , Müller Christian , Slootweg J. Chris , Wolf Robert
Published: June 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Ruth M. Gschwind and Robert Wolf (University of Regensburg), Christian Müller (Freie Universität Berlin), and J. Chris Slootweg (University of Amsterdam). The image depicts playing cards representing the reported reactions involving 1‐phospha‐7‐bora‐norbornadiene. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202000266.
Photoinduced Pyramidal Inversion Behavior of Phosphanes Involved with Aggregation‐Induced Emission Behavior
Authors: Machida Takashi , Iwasa Takeshi , Taketsugu Tetsuya , Sada Kazuki , Kokado Kenta
Published: June 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue is Kenta Kokado and co‐workers at Hokkaido University. The cover picture describes the interesting pyramidal inversion behavior of phosphanes in the excited state, like entering “the Mirror World”, which we found in this research. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202000264.
Pulsed drought: The effects of varying water stress on plant physiology and predicting herbivore response
Authors: Sconiers Warren B. , Rowland Diane L. , Eubanks Micky D.
Published: June 2020

Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency of drought conditions and alter plant–insect interactions. Despite over 530 studies on the effects of water‐deficit stress on plant–insect interactions, we still cannot accurately predict plant–insect interactions under drought conditions. Most studies have focused on how insect herbivores respond to water‐deficit‐stressed plants, with little attention on how stressed plants and changes in plant physiology may contribute to the variation in herbivore response. Variation in herbivore response to water‐deficit‐stressed plants may be due to stress‐induced changes in plants and how these changes differ with stress severity. In this study, we determined the effects of water‐deficit stress on cotton (Delta Pine 174RF) physiology in an agroecosystem using pulsed moderate and severe stress. Our goal was to determine how moderate and severe water‐deficit stress affect cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) physiology differently in terms of photosynthesis, development, water use, and nutrient content. We found that moderate and severely stressed plants had many different physiological responses that may contribute to the variation we see in herbivore response to stressed plants. For instance, moderately stressed plants were more vigorous and more developed than severely stressed plants, whereas severely stressed plants had more amino acids than moderately stressed plants. We predict that insect herbivores feeding on moderately and severely stressed plants would encounter differences in C assimilation, water content (stomatal conductance, transpiration), chlorophyll content, and concentrations of amino acids and digestible carbohydrates. It is clear that field studies should consider how differences in stress severity can affect plant–insect interactions.
Root system architecture in genetically diverse populations of grain sorghum compared with shallow and steeply rooted monocultures
Authors: Adams Curtis B. , Reyes‐Cabrera Joel , Nielsen Jackson , Erickson John E.
Published: June 2020

The genetic uniformity of monocultures extends belowground to the genetic controls over the architectural configuration of the root system. We hypothesized this may encourage inefficiency in resource acquisition compared with crops with diversity in root system architecture among plants. Here, we report on an evaluation of root systems in grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] populations phenotyped by crown root angle as “shallow” and “steep” rooted, and diverse mixtures (shallow, intermediate, and steep), at four N rates (0, 20, 100, and 200 kg N ha−1) in a sandy soil with a plow layer. Differences in the spatial distribution of root mass among architecturally contrasting populations were confirmed by direct measures in the field, which has not been previously reported in sorghum. This confirmation, plus confirmation of differences in root N distribution with soil depth, indicate that soil C and N dynamics would differ among sorghum populations differing in root system architecture. Patterns in root length density (RLD) by N rate indicated N‐based limitation on root proliferation at low N levels and a N‐induced suppression of proliferation at high N levels. There was no strong evidence that diverse architectural mixtures would result in tangible improvements in resource acquisition, as they generally had intermediate root mass and did not differ in RLD relative to architecturally contrasting monocultures. The similarity of RLD across rooting architectural types was one of several observed indicators of root growth plasticity, which could be a mechanism to alleviate physical constraints of the plants’ inherent first‐order rooting structure in taking up soil resources.
Molecular testing in diagnosis of indeterminate thyroid cytology: Trends and drivers
Authors: Kumar Neeta , Gupta Ruchika , Gupta Sanjay
Published: June 2020

Fine needle aspiration (FNA), the cornerstone of diagnosis in thyroid swellings, fails to render a definitive diagnosis in about 20% to 30% of cases that are reported as indeterminate on cytology. Since the clinical management in thyroid rests on the risk of malignancy (ROM) in a given nodule, this distinction between “benign” and “possibly malignant” assumes paramount clinical importance. Over the last two decades, tremendous progress has been achieved in our understanding of the molecular basis of thyroid pathologies leading to identification of several genetic alterations that could potentially be exploited for diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic purposes. An array of molecular tests has hit the markets aiming to predict the ROM in thyroid nodules. A deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of these tests is imperative to be able to judiciously choose the right molecular test in a given case for maximum clinical benefit. This narrative review provides an overview of current status of molecular testing in the evaluation of thyroid nodules encompassing the current status and applications of these tests in diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic areas along with a brief insight into the future developments in this field.
Together stronger: Intracolonial genetic variability occurrence in Pocillopora corals suggests potential benefits
Authors: Oury Nicolas , Gélin Pauline , Magalon Hélène
Published: June 2020

We investigated the occurrence of intracolonial genetic variability (IGV) in Pocillopora corals in the southwestern Indian Ocean. Ninety‐six colonies were threefold‐sampled from three sites in Reunion Island. Nubbins were genotyped using 13 microsatellite loci, and their multilocus genotypes compared. Over 50% of the colonies presented at least two different genotypes among their three nubbins, and IGV was found abundant in all sites (from 36.7% to 58.1%). To define the threshold distinguishing mosaicism from chimerism, we developed a new method based on different evolution models by computing the number of different alleles for the infinite allele model (IAM) and the Bruvo's distance for the stepwise mutation model (SMM). Colonies were considered as chimeras if their nubbins differed from more than four alleles and if the pairwise Bruvo's distance was higher than 0.12. Thus 80% of the IGV colonies were mosaics and 20% chimeras (representing almost 10% of the total sampling). IGV seems widespread in scleractinians and beyond the disabilities of this phenomenon reported in several studies, it should also bring benefits. Next steps are to identify these benefits and to understand processes leading to IGV, as well as factors influencing them.
Difference of lethal effect for cell type at applying high‐frequency burst pulse for cancer treatment
Authors: Sato Hiromi , Minamitani Yasushi , Ohnishi Nobuaki , Fujiwara Yusuke , Katsuki Sunao
Published: June 2020

Cancer treatment by ultrashort pulse high electric field is one of new biological applications. This work focuses on difference of effects caused at applying the pulse to different types of cells for realizing cancer treatment via ultrashort pulse electric field. In this study, by employing HeLa S3 of a cancer cell and budding yeast of a eukaryotic cell as samples, difference of effects given to each cell via the pulse was investigated. As a result, it was found that yeast cells are difficult to cause cell death compared to HeLa cells under the condition that the energy supplying to cells is equal.
Prevalence of hypopituitarism and quality of life in survivors of post‐traumatic brain injury
Authors: Bensalah Meriem , Donaldson Malcolm , Labassen Malek , Cherfi Lyes , Nebbal Mustapha , Haffaf El Mehdi , Abdennebi Benaissa , Guenane Kamel , Kemali Zahra , Ould Kablia Samia
Published: June 2020

Background

Hypopituitarism is a recognized sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may worsen the quality of life (QoL) in survivors.

Aims

To assess the prevalence of post‐traumatic hypopituitarism (PTHP) and growth hormone deficiency (GHD), and determine their correlation with QoL.

Methods

Survivors of moderate to severe TBI were recruited from two Algerian centres. At 3 and 12 months, pituitary function was evaluated using insulin tolerance test (ITT), QoL by growth hormone deficiency in adults’ questionnaire (QoL‐AGHDA), and 36‐item short‐form (SF‐36) health survey.

Results

Of 133 (M: 128; F: 5) patients aged 18‐65 years, PTHP and GHD were present at 3 and 12 months in 59 (44.4%) and 23 (17.29%), 41/116 (35.3%) and 18 (15.5%). Thirteen patients with GHD at 3 months tested normally at 12 months, while 9 had become GHD at 12 months. At 3 and 12 months, peak cortisol was < 500 nmol/L) in 39 (29.3%) and 29 (25%) patients, but <300 nmol/L in only five and seven. Prevalence for gonadotrophin deficiency was 6.8/8.6%, hypo‐ and hyperprolactinaemia 6.8/3.8% and 5.2/8.6%, and thyrotrophin deficiency 1.5/0.9%. Mean scores for QoL‐AGHDA were higher in patients with PTHP at 3 and 12 months: 7.07 vs 3.62 (P = .001) and in patients with GHD at 12 months: 8.72 vs 4.09 (P = .015). Mean SF‐36 scores were significantly lower for PTHP at 3 months.

Conclusion

Prevalence of PTHP and GHD changes with time. AGHDA measures QoL in GHD more specifically than SF‐36. Full pituitary evaluation and QoL‐AGHDA 12 months after TBI are recommended.
Analysis of a Diimine‐Organonickel Redox Series
Authors: Sondermann Christina , Pižl Martin , Paretzki Alexa , Feil Christoph , Ringenberg Mark R. , Záliš Stanislav , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: June 2020

Complex cations [Ni(C5R5)(L)]+, L = 1,4‐diphenyl‐2,3‐dimethyl‐1,4‐diaza‐1,3‐butadiene, were compared as structurally characterized BF4– (R = H) and SbF6– salts (R = Me). These NiII(L0) compounds are reversibly reduced (R = H,Me) or oxidized (R = Me) and their one‐electron oxidized and reduced forms studied by EPR and UV/Vis spectroelectrochemistry, supported by DFT calculations. Surprisingly similar EPR features were observed for [Ni(C5Me5)(L)]0 and [Ni(C5Me5)(L)]2+. Whereas the oxidation is largely metal centered to yield a NiIII species (R = Me), the reduction reveals energetically close‐lying alternatives (redox isomers) NiI(L0) and NiII(L·–).
Distancing or drawing together: Sexism and organisational tolerance of sexism impact women's social relationships at work
Authors: Ciftci Esma Esen , Barreto Manuela , Doyle David Matthew , van Breen Jolien , Darden Safi
Published: June 2020

This article examines the role of organisational climate in women's social responses to sexism at work. We argue that after experiences of sexism, women “draw together” with other women when they perceive that the organisational climate is intolerant of sexism. We assess the role of organisational climate at three levels: peer‐, manager‐, and policy‐level. We conducted a correlational study (Nstudy1 = 405) and two experimental studies (Nstudy2 = 377, Nstudy3 = 391), in which we examined women's experiences of sexism at work (measured in Study 1; manipulated in Studies 2 and 3). We also measured perceived tolerance of sexism at the peer‐, manager‐ and policy‐level in all studies. The main DVs were women's workplace friendships with other women in Studies 1 and 2, and closeness to female co‐workers in Study 3. Results showed that perceived tolerance of sexism from peers was especially important in shaping women's social relationships following experiences of sexism; tolerance from managers or at the policy level had less consistent effects. Specifically, experiences with sexism were positively associated with female participants' reported friendship (Studies 1 and 2) and closeness (Study 3) with their female colleagues, but only when peers were perceived not to tolerate sexism. When peers were perceived to tolerate sexism, female participants did not respond to sexism by drawing together.
Oligosaccharide attenuates aging‐related liver dysfunction by activating Nrf2 antioxidant signaling
Authors: Wang Yueming , Xiong Yanlei , Zhang Aiping , Zhao Nannan , Zhang Jiashen , Zhao Dongmei , Yu Zhenhai , Xu Ning , Yin Yancun , Luan Xiying , Xiong Yanlian
Published: June 2020

Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is the depolymerized product of chitosan possessing various biological activities and protective effects against inflammation and oxidative injury. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of COS supplements on aging‐related liver dysfunction. We found that COS treatment significantly attenuated elevated liver function biomarkers and oxidative stress biomarkers and decreased antioxidative enzyme activities in liver tissues in D‐galactose (D‐gal)‐treated mice. Furthermore, COS treatment significantly upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream target genes HO‐1, NQO1, and CAT. Moreover, in vitro experiments showed that COS treatment played a vital role in protecting H2O2‐exposed L02 cells against oxidative stress by activating Nrf2 antioxidant signaling. These data indicate that COS could protect against D‐gal‐induced hepatic aging by activating Nrf2 antioxidant signaling, which may provide novel applications for the prevention and treatment of aging‐related hepatic dysfunction.
Rheumatic diseases during pregnancy and SARS‐CoV‐2: An appeal for medication adherence
Authors: Scioscia Marco , Praino Emanuela , Scioscia Crescenzio
Published: June 2020

The novel SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak has raised concerns among patients with rheumatic diseases receiving chronic immunosuppressive therapy. Patient concerns regarding immune response to the virus have fueled non‐adherence behavior.
Comparison of two discrimination methods in teaching Chinese children with autism
Authors: Lin Fan Yu , Zhu Jing
Published: June 2020

In teaching conditional discriminations to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), practitioners may progress from simple to conditional discriminations or may teach conditional discriminations from the onset of instruction. Some research indicates that teaching simple discriminations first may be unnecessary and that teaching may more efficiently focus on conditional discriminations exclusively. This study replicated comparisons of simple‐to‐conditional and conditional‐only discrimination training methods in teaching audio‐visual conditional discriminations to Chinese preschoolers with ASD. Results indicated the conditional‐only training method appeared to be more efficient in teaching these skills.
Evaluation of an indirect assessment for identifying tasks for functional analysis
Authors: Wiggins Holly C. , Roscoe Eileen M.
Published: June 2020

Although a demand analysis is helpful for identifying potential establishing operations for the functional analysis (FA) demand condition, it may not always be practical due to time constraints. A potential alternative is the Negative Reinforcement Rating Scale (NRRS), an indirect assessment tool that may serve as a time efficient alternative to a demand analysis. The experimenter assessed the reliability and validity of the NRRS for 5 individuals with autism spectrum disorder who exhibited problem behavior. Multiple types of interrater reliability were assessed across 2 informants, and NRRS outcomes were compared to a subsequent demand analysis and FA to assess its validity. Reliability was high (M = 84%) for NRRS numerical ratings of categories but low (M = 32.9%) for specific examples provided. NRRS‐identified highly aversive tasks yielded better correspondence with demand analysis outcomes than did NRRS‐identified less aversive tasks.
A preliminary investigation of fixed and repetitive models during object imitation training
Authors: Deshais Meghan A. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: June 2020

Empirically based guidelines for imitation training for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are limited and there is no existing evidence about what types of imitative models foster faster acquisition of imitation in children with ASD. We compared rates of acquisition for two different methods for presenting the imitative model (i.e., repetitive, fixed) in simple (Experiment 1) and conditional (Experiment 2) discrimination arrangements. The results suggest that some children with ASD may acquire imitation more rapidly when repetitive models, rather than fixed models are used to present the target skill. In Experiment 3, we investigated the features of object imitation models that might influence acquisition. The results of Experiment 3 suggest that the dynamic nature of repetitive models might be responsible for the differential acquisition we observed in the earlier two Experiments. Additionally, the presence of an outcome (e.g., stacked blocks) during training does not enhance acquisition.
Relative preferences for edible and leisure stimuli in children with autism: A replication in Italy
Authors: Slanzi Crystal M. , Graziano Maria , D'Angelo Guido , Vollmer Timothy R. , Conine Daniel E.
Published: June 2020

Several studies have found that edible items tend to displace leisure items in multiple‐stimulus preference assessments for individuals with developmental disabilities. One recent study (Conine & Vollmer, 2019) included screen‐based technology devices in assessments and found that food items were less likely to displace leisure items and in some cases leisure items totally displaced edible items. The purpose of our study was to conduct a replication of Conine and Vollmer in Italy to evaluate cultural differences in food and leisure preferences. Results of our study were similar: For 44% of participants, at least one leisure item ranked above all edible items and leisure items displaced all edible items for 28% of participants. Participants in the present study showed a higher preference for leisure items or toys that were not screen‐based technology devices, suggesting there may be cultural variation in the types of leisure items that are preferred.
Adventitious reinforcement during long‐duration DRO exposure
Authors: Rey Catalina N. , Betz Alison M. , Sleiman Andressa A. , Kuroda Toshikazu , Podlesnik Christopher A.
Published: June 2020

Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) is a procedure often used to decrease problem behavior, but the processes responsible for behavior reduction are not well understood. This study assessed whether adventitious reinforcement of other behavior contributes to DRO effectiveness when, relative to previous research, DRO exposure is prolonged. Two response options were presented on a computer and target responding was reinforced on a variable‐ratio schedule. Response rates were then compared during DRO versus yoked variable‐time or extinction probes. Across 2 experiments, DRO decreased target responding and increased other responding more than control conditions. However, increases in other responding did not usually maintain despite target responding remaining at low levels. DRO might adventitiously reinforce other responses transiently but the decreases in target behavior could not be entirely explained by adventitious reinforcement of the other response. Instead, reductions in target responding likely depend on the discriminability of the DRO contingency.
Evaluating sources of baseline data using dual‐criteria and conservative dual‐criteria methods: A quantitative analysis
Authors: Falligant John Michael , McNulty Molly K. , Kranak Michael P. , Hausman Nicole L. , Rooker Griffin W.
Published: June 2020

Scheithauer et al. (2020) recently demonstrated that differences in the source of baseline data extracted from a functional analysis (FA) may not affect subsequent clinical decision‐making in comparison to a standard baseline. These outcomes warrant additional quantitative examination, as correspondence of visual analysis has sometimes been reported to be unreliable. In the current study, we quantified the occurrence of false positives within a dataset of FA and baseline data using the dual‐criteria (DC) and conservative dual‐criteria (CDC) methods. Results of this quantitative analysis suggest that false positives were more likely when using FA data (rather than original baseline data) as the initial treatment baseline. However, both sources of baseline data may have acceptably low levels of false positives for practical use. Overall, the findings provide preliminary quantitative support for the conclusion that determinations of effective treatment may be easily obtained using different sources of baseline data.
Tummy time without the tears: The impact of parent positioning and play
Authors: Mendres‐Smith Amber E. , Borrero John C. , Castillo Mariana I. , Davis Barbara J. , Becraft Jessica L. , Hussey‐Gardner Brenda
Published: June 2020

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants spend supervised time in the prone (tummy) position to foster motor development and prevent cranial deformities. However, infants may not tolerate the position, and consequently, caregivers may avoid placing their infants in the prone position. The AAP recommends that caregivers provide toys or interaction during tummy time. We evaluated the individual and combined effects of a play mat and experimenter interaction on negative vocalizations and head elevation during tummy time—positive effects were limited. Next, we evaluated a parent‐led intervention wherein mothers interacted with their infants, using a toy, while lying chest‐to‐chest. This intervention was associated with a reduction in negative vocalizations and an increase in head elevation for the majority of infants. Additionally, mothers rated the effectiveness of the parent‐led intervention more favorably than the experimenter‐led intervention, suggesting the effects of the parent‐led intervention were also socially valid.
Interventions for inappropriate sexual behavior in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A brief review
Authors: Falligant John Michael , Pence Sacha T.
Published: June 2020

Although prevalence rates vary, 6% to 28% of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) engage in inappropriate sexual behavior (ISB), ranging from public masturbation to sexually aggressive behavior. Along with increased risk for contacting the criminal justice system, people with IDDs who display ISB may encounter negative social consequences, restricted community access and barriers to independence, and a variety of counter‐therapeutic outcomes. The purpose of the present review is to highlight recent, efficacious behavior‐analytic treatments for ISB in individuals with IDDs. Ethical considerations and areas for future research will be discussed.
Transitioning from rich to lean reinforcement as a form of error correction
Authors: Jessel Joshua , Ma Sophia , Spartinos Joanna , Villanueva Adriana
Published: June 2020

Discrete trial instruction (DTI) is a ubiquitous tool used by practitioners in early intervention programs. A common approach to correcting errors during DTI involves providing a single prompt of the target response when a mistake is made (i.e., single‐response repetition). Modifications to the single‐response repetition approach have been developed to improve acquisition; however, these modifications are often aversive techniques (e.g., increased effort, response cost) and may not be preferred by the children or considered socially acceptable by caregivers. We conducted this study to evaluate the use of a transition from rich to lean reinforcement as a form of error correction. We compared the rich–lean condition to the single‐response repetition approach during DTI for 4 boys diagnosed with autism. The rich–lean condition was (a) more efficient in improving accuracy in 6 out of 9 tasks, (b) more preferred by all participants, and (c) socially validated by caregivers.
Murray Sidman: A life of giving
Authors: Johnson Cammarie , Iversen Iver , Kenyon Paula , Holth Per , de Souza Deisy G.
Published: June 2020

Murray Sidman's contributions to the science of behavior span many areas including avoidance behavior, coercion and its effects, stimulus control, errorless learning, programmed learning, stimulus equivalence, and single‐subject methodology. He was also a great mentor to many and helped shape the discipline we now call behavior analysis. In this memoriam, we briefly highlight his scholarly legacy and share some personal anecdotes.
Using e‐learning modules to teach ongoing‐visual inspection of functional analyses
Authors: Retzlaff Billie J. , Phillips Lauren A. , Fisher Wayne W. , Hardee Alexandra M. , Fuhrman Ashley M.
Published: June 2020

Despite the effectiveness of function‐based treatments, most clinicians do not conduct functional analyses (FA). The time required to conduct an FA is a major barrier preventing their use. One way to increase FA efficiency is to discontinue the analysis as soon as it has produced clear results. Saini et al. (2018) evaluated a structured procedure for ongoing‐visual inspection of FAs and found that it produced accurate interpretations while averaging 40% fewer sessions than author interpretation. This study evaluated the efficacy of an e‐learning module for training registered behavior technicians (RBTs) to implement ongoing visual inspection of FAs. Following training, 5 of the 6 participants showed mastery of ongoing visual inspection, and the final participant did so with the addition of supplemental procedures. We discuss how this training may increase the efficiency of FAs by teaching individuals who are less experienced in FA methodology when to seek supervision from a supervising Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA).
Authorship trends in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis: An update
Authors: Kranak Michael P. , Falligant John Michael , Bradtke Peter , Hausman Nicole L. , Rooker Griffin W.
Published: June 2020

The Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis (JABA) is considered the flagship journal for the discipline of applied behavior analysis. Thus, popular research topics and other publication trends within JABA reflect the current cultural and scientific contingencies governing the field of behavior analysis. Researchers have previously quantified a number of authorship trends in JABA (and other behavior‐analytic journals) across a number of variables, such as gender identity and sex of author, country of origin, or seniority within the field (Dunlap et al., 1998) to examine demographic and organizational factors associated with successful publication in JABA. These analyses ought to be conducted continuously to monitor trends and detect any potential biases (e.g., sexism). Accordingly, the purpose of the present investigation was to replicate previous research in this area (e.g., Dymond et al., 2000) and provide an update of current publication trends within JABA. Implications for future research and publishing practices are discussed.
Genetic Ablation of Osteopontin in Osteomalacic Hyp Mice Partially Rescues the Deficient Mineralization Without Correcting Hypophosphatemia
Authors: Hoac Betty , Østergaard Maja , Wittig Nina K , Boukpessi Tchilalo , Buss Daniel J , Chaussain Catherine , Birkedal Henrik , Murshed Monzur , McKee Marc D
Published: June 2020

PHEX is predominantly expressed by bone and tooth-forming cells, and its inactivating mutations in X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) lead to renal phosphate wasting and severe hypomineralization of bones and teeth. Also present in XLH are hallmark hypomineralized periosteocytic lesions (POLs, halos) that persist despite stable correction of serum phosphate (Pi) that improves bulk bone mineralization. In XLH, mineralization-inhibiting osteopontin (OPN, a substrate for PHEX) accumulates in the extracellular matrix of bone. To investigate how OPN functions in Hyp mice (a model for XLH), double-null (Hyp;Opn−/−) mice were generated. Undecalcified histomorphometry performed on lumbar vertebrae revealed that Hyp;Opn−/− mice had significantly reduced osteoid area/bone area (OV/BV) and osteoid thickness of trabecular bone as compared to Hyp mice, despite being as hypophosphatemic as Hyp littermate controls. However, tibias examined by synchrotron radiation micro-CT showed that mineral lacunar volumes remained abnormally enlarged in these double-null mice. When Hyp;Opn−/− mice were fed a high-Pi diet, serum Pi concentration increased, and OV/BV and osteoid thickness normalized, yet mineral lacunar area remained abnormally enlarged. Enpp1 and Ankh gene expression were increased in double-null mice fed a high-Pi diet, potentially indicating a role for elevated inhibitory pyrophosphate (PPi) in the absence of OPN. To further investigate the persistence of POLs in Hyp mice despite stable correction of serum Pi, immunohistochemistry for OPN on Hyp mice fed a high-Pi diet showed elevated OPN in the osteocyte pericellular lacunar matrix as compared to Hyp mice fed a control diet. This suggests that POLs persisting in Hyp mice despite correction of serum Pi may be attributable to the well-known upregulation of mineralization-inhibiting OPN by Pi, and its accumulation in the osteocyte pericellular matrix. This study shows that OPN contributes to osteomalacia in Hyp mice, and that genetic ablation of OPN in Hyp mice improves the mineralization phenotype independent of systemic Pi-regulating factors. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology (APAGE) Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Working Party guidelines on IBD management during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ling Khoon Lin , Hilmi Ida , Raja Ali Raja Affendi , Leong Rupert W L , Leung Wai Keung , Ng Siew Chien , Wu Kai Chun , Chen Min Hu , Ran Zhi Hua , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Ahuja Vineet , Makharia Govind K , Banerjee Rupa , Wei Shu Chen , Wu Deng Chyang , Pisespongsa Pises , Ye Byong Duk , Sollano Jose , Simadibrata Marcellus , Chuah Sai Wei , Ooi Choon Jin
Published: June 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic, secondary to SARS‐CoV‐2, has resulted in high mortality and morbidity worldwide. As inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease, and most patients are on long‐term immunosuppressive agents, there is understandable concern, particularly in terms of therapy. In view of this, experts in IBD across the Asia Pacific region were invited to put together recommendations based on their experience and the currently available data. In general, most IBD therapies (with a few exceptions) can be continued safely, and the general consensus is that maintaining disease control should remain the main principle of management. In addition, social distancing measures and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment should be strictly adhered to. During the current pandemic, face‐to‐face clinic follow ups and non‐urgent procedures should be kept to a minimum.
Piperazine‐mediated tandem synthesis of bis(thieno[2,3‐b]pyridines): Versatile precursors for related fused [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]pyrimidines
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Mekky Ahmed E. M.
Published: June 2020

In this study, we discuss the utility of bis(cyanoacetamides) as versatile precursors to the piperazine‐mediated synthesis of a wide spectrum of bis(thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine) derivatives, linked to aliphatic spacers via thioethers. The proposed tandem protocol involved the reaction of bis(cyanoacetamides) with two equivalents of the appropriate cinnamonitriles in dioxane in the presence of six equivalents of piperazine at reflux for 4 hours. Then, two equivalents of the appropriate halogen‐containing reagents were added and the reaction was heated at reflux for further 3 hours. The bis(thieno[2,3‐b]pyridines) were taken as a key intermediates to new bis(4‐oxopyrido[3′,2′:4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidines). The above derivatives were reacted with the appropriate hydrazonyl chloride derivatives in dioxane in the presence of triethylamine to yield the corresponding bis([1,2,4]triazoles) with a related fused pyridothienopyrimidine moiety. The new structures were elucidated by IR, NMR spectral data, as well as elemental analyses.
Design and the synthesis of 1‐heteroaryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles connected to coumarins via ether linker
Authors: Nibin Joy Muthipeedika , Beliaev Nikolai , Beryozkina Tetyana V. , Bakulev Vasiliy A.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we report an efficient and versatile methodology for the synthesis of a series of novel heteroaryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles connected to 4‐methylcoumarin (4‐methyl‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one) via oxymethylene linker. The desired molecules were accessed by both two‐step synthesis and the one‐pot copper catalyzed cycloaddition reaction of heteroaromatic azides with coumarin containing acetylenes. The developed protocol was found to be facile and effective for preparing a series of novel heteroaryl‐1,2,3‐triazole‐coumarin conjugates in excellent yields. Practical utility of one‐pot protocol has been confirmed by the successful gram‐scale synthesis of 1,3‐Dimethyl‐6‐(4‐[([4‐methyl‐2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐7‐yl]oxy)methyl]‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)pyrimidine‐2,4(1H,3H)‐dione.
Identification of nsp1 gene as the target of SARS‐CoV‐2 real‐time RT‐PCR using nanopore whole‐genome sequencing
Authors: Chan Wan‐Mui , Ip Jonathan Daniel , Chu Allen Wing‐Ho , Yip Cyril Chik‐Yan , Lo Lap‐Sum , Chan Kwok‐Hung , Ng Anthony Chin‐Ki , Poon Rosana Wing‐Shan , To Wing‐Kin , Tsang Owen Tak‐Yin , Leung Wai‐Shing , Kwan Mike Yat‐Wah , Chua Gilbert T. , Chung Tom Wai‐Hin , Hung Ivan Fan‐Ngai , Kok Kin‐Hang , Cheng Vincent Chi‐Chung , Chan Jasper Fuk‐Woo , Yuen Kwok‐Yung , To Kelvin Kai‐Wang
Published: June 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Accurate detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 using molecular assays is critical for patient management and the control of the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, there is an increasing number of SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses with mutations at the primer or probe binding sites, and these mutations may affect the sensitivity of currently available real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assays targeting the nucleocapsid (N), envelope (E), and open reading frame 1a or 1b genes. Using sequence‐independent single‐primer amplification and nanopore whole‐genome sequencing, we have found that the nonstructural protein 1 (nsp1) gene, located at the 5′ end of the SARS‐CoV‐2 genome, was highly expressed in the nasopharyngeal or saliva specimens of 9 COVID‐19 patients of different clinical severity. Based on this finding, we have developed a novel nsp1 real‐time RT‐PCR assay. The primers and probes are highly specific for SARS‐CoV‐2. Validation with 101 clinical specimens showed that our nsp1 RT‐PCR assay has a sensitivity of 93.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 86.2%‐97.2%), which was similar to those of N and E gene RT‐PCR assays. The diagnostic specificity was 100% (95% CI: 92.9%‐100%). The addition of nsp1 for multitarget detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 can avoid false‐negative results due to mutations at the primers/probes binding sites of currently available RT‐PCR assays.
A climatology of convective and non‐convective high‐wind events across the eastern United States during 1973–2015
Authors: Murley Victoria A. , Durkee Joshua D. , Gilliland Joshua M. , Black Alan W.
Published: June 2020

This study investigates convective and non‐convective high‐wind events (CWEs and NCWEs) across the eastern U.S. during a 43‐year climatological period (1973–2015) for spatial and temporal variations in wind speed and direction. Hourly surface wind observations were gathered from the National Centers for Environmental Information Data Center Integrated Surface Database (NCEI‐ISD). This dataset includes quality‐controlled wind observations from 391 first‐order weather stations in the eastern U.S. Findings show that high‐wind events (HWEs) meeting established National Weather Service criteria were most concentrated in the West North Central and South regions (High Plains) and fewer CWEs occurred during the study period compared to NCWEs. Gust CWEs increased significantly (1.95 days year−1) while sustained NCWEs decreased significantly (−0.58 days year−1). Mean wind directions were observed primarily in the southwest and northwest quadrants. Mean wind speed decreased at a statistically significant level for sustained CWEs, gust CWEs, and sustained NCWEs. Developing an extensive climatological understanding of convective and non‐convective high‐wind events is beneficial to mitigate damage and fatalities caused by these events.
Dissipation and residue determination of fluopyram and its metabolites in greenhouse crops
Authors: Vargas‐Pérez Marta , Egea González Francisco Javier , Garrido Frenich Antonia
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Fluopyram is a pesticide widely used in tomato and cucumber crops cultivation to control fungal diseases that develop especially in environments with moderate temperatures and high humidity, such as in a greenhouse. The pathway of fluopyram dissipation has been monitored in cucumber and cherry tomato under greenhouse conditions.

RESULTS

In the greenhouse trials, cherry tomato and cucumber were treated by irrigation water with the commercial product at the manufacturer’s recommended dose and double dose. High‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) coupled to ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) has been selected as the technique to obtain the identification of fluopyram and metabolites. The fate of fluopyram in greenhouse tomato and cucumber was investigated over 44 days. The metabolic pathway of fluopyram was: in a first step there was a primary transformation to fluopyram‐7‐hydroxy and fluopyram‐8‐hydroxy, isomeric compounds, and in a second phase to fluopyram‐benzamide and fluopyram‐pyridyl‐carboxylic acid. The behavior of fluopyram does not fit any type of kinetic classical model of degradation.

CONCLUSIONS

Greenhouse trials revealed that the fluopyram is a very persistent compound, and their terminal residues do not exceed maximum residue level (MRL) at the end of the study. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
The impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) on surgical outcome for patients with mostly HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) underwent hepatectomy
Authors: Tian Yunhong , Li Tie , Qi Shouliang , Alhourani Hani , Luo Binyu , Chenqin Junjie , Fu Qizhong , Peng Yong , Wu Jianlin
Published: June 2020

Background and Objectives

The impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) on surgical outcome, mostly in patients with HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who underwent hepatectomy.

Methods

A propensity score matching analysis was conducted. Patients were categorized into two groups MetS‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (MetS‐HCC) and 1:1 matched non‐MetS‐related HCC (non‐MetS‐HCC). Surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

Seventy‐four MetS‐HCC patients and 74 propensity score‐matched non‐MetS‐HCC patients were selected for analysis. The incidence of surgical site infection was higher in the MetS‐HCC group than in the non‐MetS‐HCC group (12.16% vs 0%, P < .005). There was no difference in the recurrence‐free survival and overall survival between patients in the MetS‐HCC group and in non‐MetS‐HCC group (P > .05). Microvascular invasion and severe postoperative complications were independent risk factors for recurrence‐free survival and overall survival.

Conclusions

Hepatectomy for patients with mostly HBV‐related HCC in the presence of MetS can result in a higher rate of postoperative surgical site infection compared with those in the absence of MetS, but long‐term survival rates are comparable.