bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of melt extraction during lower crustal partial melting
Authors: Etheridge Michael A. , Daczko Nathan R. , Chapman Timothy , Stuart Catherine A.
Published: July 2020

Progressive vapour‐absent partial melting of a closed rock system increases melt pressure due to an expansion in the volume of the mineral plus melt assemblage. For a locally closed system, we quantify the melt pressure increase per increment of partial melting of a metapelite using phase equilibria modelling and combine it with Mohr–Coulomb theory to examine the interplay between melt pressure and fracture behaviour. It is shown that very small increments of vapour‐absent partial melting (<1%) increase melt pore pressure by tens of MPa leading to inevitable brittle failure of locally closed systems. Fracturing will affect these systems, even if initially limited to the scale of a few grains, and a connected microfracture network will enhance permeability as partial melting progresses. This will lead to a conditionally open system, potentially limiting accumulation of melt in the source. Repeated and cyclic fracture as temperature progressively increases will drive migration of the melt into sites of low fluid pressure at all scales. Crystal‐plastic creep processes create deformation‐induced dilatancy gradients that dominate over buoyancy forces at all scales in the melt source. Brittle and ductile deformation therefore cooperate in the extraction of melt. Enhanced porosity and permeability in ductile shear zones result in lower fluid pressure, providing a potentially important driving force for melt migration and drainage ‘up’ shear zones and along larger scale fluid pressure gradients in the crust.
Differential gene signature in adipose tissue depots of growth hormone transgenic mice
Authors: Duran‐Ortiz Silvana , Young Jonathan A. , Jara Adam , Jensen Elizabeth A. , Basu Reetobrata , List Edward O. , Qian Yanrong , Kopchick John J. , Berryman Darlene E.
Published: July 2020

Bovine growth hormone (bGH) transgenic mice mimic the clinical condition of acromegaly, having high circulating growth hormone (GH) levels. These mice are giant, have decreased adipose tissue (AT) mass, impaired glucose metabolism and a shortened lifespan. The detrimental effects of excess GH have been suggested, in part, to be a result of its depot‐specific actions on AT. To investigate this relationship, we evaluated gene expression, biological mechanisms, cellular pathways and predicted microRNA (miRNA) in two AT depots (subcutaneous [Subq] and epididymal [Epi]) from bGH and littermate controls using RNA sequencing analysis. Two analyses on the differentially expressed genes (DEG) were performed: (i) comparison of the same AT depot between bGH and wild‐type (WT) mice (genotype comparison) and (ii) comparison of Subq and Epi AT depots within the same genotype (depot comparison). For the genotype comparison, we found a higher number of significant DEG in the Subq AT depot of bGH mice compared to WT controls, corroborating previous reports that GH has a greater impact on the Subq depot. Furthermore, most of the DEG in bGH mice were not shared by WT mice, suggesting that excess GH induces the expression of genes not commonly present in AT. Through gene ontology and pathway analysis, the genotype comparison revealed that the DEG of the Subq depot of bGH mice relate to fatty acid oxidation, branched‐chain amino acid degradation and the immune system. Additionally, the AT depot comparison showed that the immune cell activation and T‐cell response appear up‐regulated in the Subq compared to the Epi AT depot. The miRNA prediction also suggested a modulation of T‐cell‐related biological process in Subq. In summary, the present study provides a unique resource for understanding the specific differences in gene expression that are driven by both excess GH action and AT depot location.
PCSK9 is associated with mortality in patients with septic shock: data from the ALBIOS study
Authors: Vecchié A. , Bonaventura A. , Meessen J. , Novelli D. , Minetti S. , Elia E. , Ferrara D. , Ansaldo A. M. , Scaravilli V. , Villa S. , Ferla L. , Caironi P. , Latini R. , Carbone F. , Montecucco F. ,   the ALBIOS Biomarkers Study Investigators
Published: July 2020

Background

Pro‐protein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a proenzyme primarily known to regulate low‐density lipoprotein receptor re‐uptake on hepatocytes. Whether PCSK9 can concurrently trigger inflammation or not remains unclear. Here, we investigated the potential association between circulating levels of PCSK9 and mortality in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock.

Methods

Plasma PCSK9 levels at days 1, 2 and 7 were measured in 958 patients with severe sepsis or septic shock previously enrolled in the Albumin Italian Outcome Sepsis (ALBIOS) trial. Correlations between levels of PCSK9 and pentraxin 3 (PTX3), a biomarker of disease severity, were evaluated with ranked Spearman’s coefficients. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association of PCSK9 levels at day 1 with 28‐ and 90‐day mortality.

Results

Median plasma PCSK9 levels were 278 [182–452] ng mL−1 on day 1. PCSK9 correlated positively with PTX3 at the three time‐points, and patients with septic shock within the first quartile of PCSK9 showed higher levels of PTX3. Similar mortality rates were observed in patients with severe sepsis across PCSK9 quartiles. Patients with septic shock with lower PCSK9 levels on day 1 (within the first quartile) showed the highest 28‐ and 90‐day mortality rate as compared to other quartiles.

Conclusion

In our sub‐analysis of the ALBIOS trial, we found that patients with septic shock presenting with lower plasma PCSK9 levels experienced higher mortality rate. Further studies are warranted to better evaluate the pathophysiological role of PCSK9 in sepsis.
Transcranial Sonography versus CT for Postoperative Monitoring After Decompressive Craniectomy
Authors: De Bonis Pasquale , Mantovani Giorgio , Lofrese Giorgio , Cavallo Michele Alessandro , Valpiani Giorgia , Morotti Chiara , Scerrati Alba
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Computed tomography (CT) is the actual gold standard diagnostic tool for monitoring patients after decompressive craniectomy. It is validated and provides a wide number of information. However, it takes time, expensive, and requires patient transportation. Transcranial sonography (TCS) could represent an alternative diagnostic tool in these patients.

The aim of this study is to compare TCS versus CT scan after decompressive craniectomy in terms of diagnosing complications and costs evaluation.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 10 craniectomized patients who were monitored with sonography and CT. Ventricular measurements and possible complications were evaluated by two independent observers. The two methods were compared using Fisher's exact test and Spearman's Rho coefficient. A costs analysis was also conducted.

RESULTS

A good correlation coefficient (ρ) between CT and TCS was found for frontal horn dimensions (ρ .9929), median cella (ρ .9516), and third ventricle (ρ .8989). All results were statistically significant (P < .0001) and Bland‐Altman plots showed no systemic biases. Fisher's exact test showed no statistically significant differences between TCS and CT for all the studied predefined complications. Cost analysis showed a 68% cost reduction in favor of TCS.

CONCLUSIONS

TCS could be a reliable alternative diagnostic tool for major complications in patients undergoing decompressive craniectomy. It could limit the number of CT scans per patient overcoming several limitations, such as costs, radiation exposure, and need to move the patient.
Guaranteed renewable life insurance under demand uncertainty
Authors: Hoy Michael , Mirza Afrasiab , Sadanand Asha
Published: July 2020

Guaranteed renewability (GR) is a prominent feature in many health and life insurance markets. We develop a model that includes unpredictable (and unobservable) fluctuations in demand for life insurance as well as changes in risk type (observable) over individuals' lifetimes. The presence of demand type heterogeneity leads to the possibility that optimal GR contracts may have a renewal price that is either above or below the actuarially fair price of the lowest risk type in the population. Individuals whose type turns out to be high risk but low demand renew more of their GR insurance than is efficient due to the attractive renewal price. This results in imperfect insurance against reclassification risk. Although a first‐best efficient contract is not possible in the presence of demand type heterogeneity, the presence of GR contracts nonetheless improves welfare relative to an environment with only spot markets.
Complement split product C3c in saliva as biomarker for periodontitis and response to periodontal treatment
Authors: Grande Maria Anastasia , Belstrøm Daniel , Damgaard Christian , Holmstrup Palle , Thangaraj Sai Sindhu , Nielsen Claus Henrik , Palarasah Yaseelan
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective

The complement system is engaged in inflammatory reactions both in the periodontal pockets and in the periodontium itself, where it can mediate tissue destruction. The aim of this study was, first, to compare salivary levels of the total complement system protein C3 and its split product, fluid‐phase C3c in patients with periodontitis and periodontally healthy controls. Next, to determine if C3 and C3c levels had biomarker potential in diagnosing and monitoring periodontitis and its treatment. We hypothesized that salivary levels of total C3 and the split product C3c associated with the severity of periodontitis and reflected decreased inflammatory activity after periodontal treatment.

Methods

At baseline, stimulated saliva samples were collected from patients with periodontitis (n = 18) and periodontally healthy controls (n = 15). Subsequently, non‐surgical periodontal treatment was performed in the patients, and saliva sampling from patients was repeated two‐, six‐, and twelve weeks post‐treatment (NCT02913248 at clinicaltrials.gov).

The patients were grouped as good and poor responders to treatment according to the achieved reduction in bleeding on probing (BOP).

Salivary levels of C3 and C3c were quantified using sandwich ELISA.

Results

Patients with periodontitis had higher baseline levels of both total C3 and the split product C3c in saliva than did periodontally healthy controls (P < .0001). Receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses discriminated patients with periodontitis from controls based on both C3 (AUC (area under curve) = 0.91, P < .001) and C3c levels (AUC = 0.84, P < .001) in saliva. Periodontal treatment improved all clinical parameters (P < .01). Good responders (n = 10) had lower baseline levels of C3c than poor responders (n = 8), (P < .05), and baseline levels of C3c discriminated between good and poor responders (AUC = 0.80, P < .05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, patients with periodontitis had higher salivary levels of C3c, and the C3c levels were predictive of reductions in BOP, that is, the poor responders. This suggests that salivary C3c levels possess potential to serve as a biomarker predicting the clinical response to non‐surgical periodontal treatment.
Reproductive parameters of franciscana dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei) of Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Débora F. , Barbosa Rodrigo A. , Conversani Valéria R. M. , Botta Silvina , Hohn Aleta A. , de O. Santos Marcos C.
Published: July 2020

Reproductive parameters of 168 franciscana dolphins, Pontoporia blainvillei (73 females and 95 males) incidentally caught (n = 163) or stranded (n = 5) between 2005 and 2016 in southeastern Brazil are presented. Ovarian macroscopic analysis revealed 55 immature (75.3%) and 18 mature (24.7%) females. Annual pregnancy rate was estimated to be 0.36, with a calving interval of 2.8 years. Testicular histology revealed 66 immature (69.5%) and 29 mature (30.5%) males. Males with combined testis weight above 4 g were mature, and 1‐year‐old mature males and a 2‐year‐old pregnant female are reported for the first time for the species. Reproductive seasonality does not seem to occur in the study area. Mean age and length at sexual maturation were estimated to be at 2.7 years and 128.5 cm for females, and 2.7 years and 114.0 cm for males. These estimates are lower than most of the estimates for this species. These results add novel and valuable information on the reproductive patterns of this endangered species, threatened by high levels of mortality in gill net fisheries. The information presented here represents an important effort to obtain more reliable parameter estimates for the studied area, needed for a better assessment of its current conservation status.
Cercospora beticola: The intoxicating lifestyle of the leaf spot pathogen of sugar beet
Authors: Rangel Lorena I. , Spanner Rebecca E. , Ebert Malaika K. , Pethybridge Sarah J. , Stukenbrock Eva H. , de Jonge Ronnie , Secor Gary A. , Bolton Melvin D.
Published: July 2020

Cercospora leaf spot, caused by the fungal pathogen Cercospora beticola, is the most destructive foliar disease of sugar beet worldwide. This review discusses C. beticola genetics, genomics, and biology and summarizes our current understanding of the molecular interactions that occur between C. beticola and its sugar beet host. We highlight the known virulence arsenal of C. beticola as well as its ability to overcome currently used disease management strategies. Finally, we discuss future prospects for the study and management of C. beticola infections in the context of newly employed molecular tools to uncover additional information regarding the biology of this pathogen.

Taxonomy

Cercospora beticola Sacc.; Kingdom Fungi, Phylum Ascomycota, Class Dothideomycetes, Order Capnodiales, Family Mycosphaerellaceae, Genus Cercospora.

Host range

Well‐known pathogen of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) and most species of the Beta genus. Reported as pathogenic on other members of the Chenopodiaceae (e.g., lamb's quarters, spinach) as well as members of the Acanthaceae (e.g., bear's breeches), Apiaceae (e.g., Apium), Asteraceae (e.g., chrysanthemum, lettuce, safflower), Brassicaceae (e.g., wild mustard), Malvaceae (e.g., Malva), Plumbaginaceae (e.g., Limonium), and Polygonaceae (e.g., broad‐leaved dock) families.

Disease symptoms

Leaves infected with C. beticola exhibit circular lesions that are coloured tan to grey in the centre and are often delimited by tan‐brown to reddish‐purple rings. As disease progresses, spots can coalesce to form larger necrotic areas, causing severely infected leaves to wither and die. At the centre of these spots are black spore‐bearing structures (pseudostromata). Older leaves often show symptoms first and younger leaves become infected as the disease progresses.

Management

Application of a mixture of fungicides with different modes of action is currently performed although elevated resistance has been documented in most employed fungicide classes. Breeding for high‐yielding cultivars with improved host resistance is an ongoing effort and prudent cultural practices, such as crop rotation, weed host management, and cultivation to reduce infested residue levels, are widely used to manage disease.

Useful website

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/genome/11237?genome_assembly_id=352037
Targeted suppression of soybean BAG6‐induced cell death in yeast by soybean cyst nematode effectors
Authors: Wang Jianying , Yeckel Greg , Kandoth Pramod K. , Wasala Lakmini , Hussey Richard S. , Davis Eric L. , Baum Thomas J. , Mitchum Melissa G.
Published: July 2020

While numerous effectors that suppress plant immunity have been identified from bacteria, fungi, and oomycete pathogens, relatively little is known for nematode effectors. Several dozen effectors have been reported from the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Previous studies suggest that a hypersensitive response‐like programmed cell death is triggered at nematode feeding sites in soybean during an incompatible interaction. However, virulent SCN populations overcome this incompatibility using unknown mechanisms. A soybean BAG6 (Bcl‐2 associated anthanogene 6) gene previously reported by us to be highly up‐regulated in degenerating feeding sites induced by SCN in a resistant soybean line was attenuated in response to a virulent SCN population. We show that GmBAG6‐1 induces cell death in yeast like its Arabidopsis homolog AtBAG6 and also in soybean. This led us to hypothesize that virulent SCN may target GmBAG6‐1 as part of their strategy to overcome soybean defence responses during infection. Thus, we used a yeast viability assay to screen SCN effector candidates for their ability to specifically suppress GmBAG6‐1‐induced cell death. We identified several effectors that strongly suppressed cell death mediated by GmBAG6‐1. Two effectors identified as suppressors showed direct interaction with GmBAG6‐1 in yeast, suggesting that one mechanism of cell death suppression may occur through an interaction with this host protein.
Understanding Intergroup Conflict Complexity: An Application of the Socioecological Framework and the Integrative Identity Negotiation Theory
Authors: Dorjee Tenzin , Ting‐Toomey Stella
Published: July 2020

This research article used a controversial in‐progress conflict case story, namely the Citizenship Amendment Act in India, to illustrate the benefit of using a combined socioecological framework and integrative identity negotiation theory in explaining intergroup conflict complexity. The essay is structured in four sections. First, we present a highly controversial conflict case story of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) that was recently passed in India. The real‐life case story is embedded in the nexus of multifaceted identity conflict and multileveled socioecological interpretations. Second, we introduce the socioecological (SE) framework and its essential principles and illustrative examples of the various levels of analysis. Third, we review selective assumptions of the integrative identity negotiation theory (IINT) and, together with the SE framework, analyze the CAA India case story with explanatory depth and multilevel insights. Fourth, we conclude with a summary and seven strategy recommendations that can be applied to managing polarized intergroup conflict complexity constructively.
Arabidopsis seedling establishment under waterlogging requires ABCG5‐mediated formation of a dense cuticle layer
Authors: Lee Eun‐Jung , Kim Kyung Yoon , Zhang Jie , Yamaoka Yasuyo , Gao Peng , Kim Hyojin , Hwang Jae‐Ung , Suh Mi Chung , Kang Byungho , Lee Youngsook
Published: July 2020

Germination requires sufficient water absorption by seeds, but excessive water in the soil inhibits plant growth. We therefore hypothesized that tolerance mechanisms exist that help young seedlings survive and develop in waterlogged conditions.

Many ATP‐BINDING CASSETTE TRANSPORTER subfamily G (ABCG) proteins protect terrestrial plants from harsh environmental conditions. To establish whether any of these proteins facilitate plant development under waterlogged conditions, we observed the early seedling growth of many ABCG transporter mutants under waterlogged conditions.

abcg5 seedlings exhibited severe developmental problems under waterlogged conditions: the shoot apical meristem was small, and the seedling failed to develop true leaves. The seedlings had a high water content and reduced buoyancy on water, suggesting that they were unable to retain air spaces on and inside the plant. Supporting this possibility, abcg5 cotyledons had increased cuticle permeability, reduced cuticular wax contents, and a much less dense cuticle layer than the wild‐type.

These results indicate that proper development of plants under waterlogged conditions requires the dense cuticle layer formed by ABCG5 activity.
Necrobiosis lipoidica with rapid response to doxycycline
Authors: Burns Emily , Ukoha Uzoamaka , Chan Audrey
Published: July 2020

Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) is a rare granulomatous disease of unknown etiology. Multiple therapies may be used with varying efficacy. We report a pediatric patient with a history of type I diabetes mellitus and NL with minimal response to an ultrapotent topical steroid, topical calcineurin inhibitor, and intralesional triamcinolone, complicated by steroid atrophy, who rapidly responded after addition of doxycycline.
Clinical characteristics of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children: An 8‐year single center experience
Authors: Tunca Sahin Gulhan , Ozgur Senem , Kafali Hasan Candas , Sevinc Sengul Fatma , Haydin Sertac , Guzeltas Alper , Ergul Yakup
Published: July 2020

Background

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the second most common pediatric cardiomyopathy. Although there is a large body of literature about HCM in adults, there is limited information on HCM in childhood. We evaluated various aspects of pediatric HCM patients treated at our center.

Methods

We identified 152 pediatric patients with HCM between October 2011 and October 2019. Clinical history, invasive (ICD, pacemaker, electrophysiologic study, catheter ablation therapy) and non‐invasive (ECG, holter moniterization, echocardiography, cardiac MR, genetic study, medicam treatment) data were collected and evaluated.

Results

The mean ± standard deviation age of patients was 8.9 ± 5.7 years (1 month–18 years) and 67.8% were male. The most frequent clinical symptoms were murmur and palpitations. Three cases (2%) had aborted sudden death as the first manifestation of HCM. Of these patients, 120 (78.9%) had non‐syndromic HCM and 32 (27.2%) had syndromic HCM. Asymmetric septal hypertrophy was common (48.3%) in the non‐syndromic group, whereas concentric hypertrophy was common (56.2%) in syndromic group. Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) occurred in 39 (25.6%) patients. Nine (5.9%) patients underwent electrophysiologic study and/or ablation and 16 patients underwent surgical intervention. Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) insertion was performed in 38 patients (26 transvenous, 12 epicardial). ICDs were inserted in three (7.9%) patients for secondary prevention; in the remaining patients (92.1%) the devices were placed for primary prevention. Mean SD follow‐up time was 27.1 ± 22 months. Five (3.3%) patients died during the follow‐up. No patient had heart transplantation or a long‐term assistive device.

Conclusion

The etiology of HCM is heterogeneous and present at any age. It is important to determine the timing of surgery and potential risks for sudden cardiac arrest. As most cases of HCM are familial, evaluation of family members at risk should be a routine component of clinical management.
Cytological description of testicular cell populations in sexually mature cats with normal spermatogenesis
Authors: Bodet Lucile , Albaric Olivier , Topie Emmanuel , Dagher Elie , Chocteau Florian , Gogny Anne
Published: July 2020

In cats, assessment of the testicular function is mainly based on sperm evaluation. Whatever the technique used, the volume of collected sperm is often small, which may lead to technical difficulties to achieve the semen evaluation in routine practice. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the testicular parenchyma is one of the other methods used to assess testicular function. The aim of this study was to explore the relevance of FNA in the assessment of testicular cells in sexually mature cats. Eighteen cats over one year of age were recruited among animals presented for surgical neutering. Semen was collected by electroejaculation before it was evaluated. FNA biopsies of the testicles were taken using a 21‐gauge needle. After castration, histological analysis of the testes was performed. Semen evaluation and histological analysis showed no anomalies, which confirmed normal spermatogenesis in all the cats and allowed a proper interpretation of the cytological findings. The cells identified through cytological examination were spermatogonia (1.99 ± 0.17%), primary spermatocytes (10.49 ± 0.74%), round spermatids (34.80 ± 1.57%), elongated spermatids (23.59 ± 2.02%), spermatozoa (21.56 ± 1.86%), Sertoli cells (7.53 ± 1.23%) and Leydig cells (0.04 ± 0.03%). However, spermatocytes II were not identified. This is due to the low proportions of these cells, related to their very short lifespan. Likewise, the very low number of Leydig cells observed is probably due to the damage caused during the aspiration stage. This study showed that fine‐needle aspiration is an efficient method to describe cytologically normal testicular populations, a cornerstone for future research aimed to study abnormal spermatogenesis and to correlate it to cytological proportion of germ cells.
The effect of different treatments of moss layer transfer technique on plant functional types' biomass in revegetated milled peatlands
Authors: Purre Anna‐Helena , Ilomets Mati , Truus Laimdota , Pajula Raimo , Sepp Kairi
Published: July 2020

The number and the area of former milled peatlands under restoration have increased rapidly in the Northern Hemisphere in recent decades with the primary aim of promoting peat accumulation. However, the application of similar restoration techniques across different sites does not always lead to desired results, and some site‐specific modifications may be needed. This study aimed to evaluate the response of aboveground plant biomass on three experimental sites in northern Estonia to different restoration techniques in degraded peatlands. The sites were restored using the moss layer transfer technique, which was modified with different plant spreading rates and species composition of spread material, fertilization, and creating variations in microtopography. The strongest effect of manipulations was found for bryophyte biomass responses to treatments. The creation of a microtopographic relief during the site preparation phase favored the development of Sphagnum biomass in depressions rather than in positive microforms. The species composition of the spreading material had some effect on bryophyte biomass: Sphagnum biomass was higher where hummock species had been spread. We did not find any statistical difference in the ratio of Sphagnum reintroduction tested ranging from 1:10 to 1:15.
Implications of seed traits for restoration of ultramafic plant taxa from the Goro plateau in the subtropical hotspot of New Caledonia
Authors: Ititiaty Yawiya , Brescia Fabrice , Bordez Laurent , Gensous Simon , McCoy Stéphane , Fogliani Bruno
Published: July 2020

The biodiversity hotspot of New Caledonia faces extensive landscape fragmentation. Progress of restoration practices is critical to address this problem for reestablishment of ecological continuities. The objective of our study, which can be considered as a first step, was to support appropriate species selection for restoration of fragmented habitats. We assessed seed dispersal, seed dormancy, and seed desiccation tolerance of 407 species from Forest (F) and Maquis (M) vegetation on ultramafic soils in southern New Caledonia. The primary seed dispersal mode was animals (zoochory, 53%). Overall, we found 34% of the taxa had some seed dormancy, and 72.9% had orthodox seeds. Wind‐dispersed (anemochorous) species had predominantly non‐dormant and orthodox seeds, whereas zoochorous species had seeds with at least some dormancy potential and higher recalcitrance. Further assessments were performed on 70 of the taxa, those currently used in ecological restoration. Their primary seed dispersal mode was found to be anemochory, 42.5% in Maquis (M) alone, and 40% in Forest and Maquis (FM) combined. Non‐dormant seeds were prevalent both in M (82.5%) and FM (90%), and orthodoxy was the seed desiccation tolerance type most common in both vegetation types (95% and 66%, respectively in M and FM). Thus, the seeds currently used in restoration projects are mainly wind‐dispersed orthodox seeds. To enhance both functional and phylogenetic diversity in restored areas, we recommend including fleshy‐fruited, animal‐dispersed taxa in restoration programs.
Casting a shadow: Productivity of formal firms and informality
Authors: Amin Mohammad , Okou Cedric
Published: July 2020

Informality is a salient feature of most developing economies. Two important concerns arise from informality. First, informal firms tend to be less productive than formal firms. Second, the competition from informal firms can weigh on the productivity of firms in the formal sector. These challenges can lower the aggregate productivity and thereby retard overall development in countries where the informal sector is pervasive. Our analysis provides robust evidence on both issues using firm‐level survey data for a large cross section of countries. We also examine the extent to which firm characteristics and business environment quality shape the productivity gap between formal and informal firms as well as the impact of informal competition on the productivity of formal sector firms. The results show that, on average, the labor productivity of informal firms is about one‐fourth that of formal firms. Moreover, competition from informal firms lowers the labor productivity of formal firms by 20%–24%. In line with the “parasite” view of informality, the negative impact of informal competition on the productivity of the formal sector firms is more pronounced when the business environment is less conducive to operating formally due to high corruption, burdensome regulations, and weak institutions.
Ensemble updating of binary state vectors by maximizing the expected number of unchanged components
Authors: Loe Margrethe Kvale , Tjelmeland Håkon
Published: July 2020

The main challenge in ensemble‐based filtering methods is the updating of a prior ensemble to a posterior ensemble. In the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF), a linear‐Gaussian model is introduced to overcome this issue, and the prior ensemble is updated with a linear shift. In the current article, we consider how the underlying ideas of the EnKF can be applied when the state vector consists of binary variables. While the EnKF relies on Gaussian approximations, we instead introduce a first‐order Markov chain approximation. To update the prior ensemble we simulate samples from a distribution which maximizes the expected number of equal components in a prior and posterior state vector. The proposed approach is demonstrated in a simulation experiment where, compared with a more naive updating procedure, we find that it leads to an almost 50% reduction in the difference between true and estimated marginal filtering probabilities with respect to the Frobenius norm.
Maternal anxiety and toddler inhibited temperament predict maternal socialization of worry
Authors: Kiel Elizabeth J. , Price Natalee N. , Buss Kristin A.
Published: July 2020

Parent emotion socialization refers to the process by which parents impart their values and beliefs about emotional expressivity to their children. Parent emotion socialization requires attention as a construct that develops in its own right. The socialization of child worry, in particular, has implications for children’s typical socioemotional development, as well as their maladaptive development toward anxiety outcomes. Existing theories on emotion socialization, anxiety, and parent–child relationships guided our investigation of both maternal anxiety and toddler inhibited temperament as predictors of change in mothers’ unsupportive (i.e., distress, punitive, and minimizing) responses to toddler worry across 1 year of toddlerhood. Participants included 139 mother–toddler dyads. Mothers reported on their own anxiety and their emotion socialization responses to toddler worry. We assessed toddler inhibited temperament through a mother‐report survey of shyness and observational coding of dysregulated fear. Maternal anxiety but not child inhibited temperament predicted distress reactions and punitive responses, whereas maternal anxiety and toddler dysregulated fear both uniquely predicted minimizing responses. These results support the continued investigation of worry socialization as a developmental outcome of both parent and child characteristics.
Impregnation of healthy nail tissue with optical clearing agents for improved optical coherence tomography imaging
Authors: Ortner Vinzent Kevin , Mandel Victor Desmond , Haedersdal Merete , Philipsen Peter Alshede
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The impact of optical tissue clearing on optical coherence tomography (OCT) for nail tissue imaging has not been investigated. This study seeks to compare the effects of an emollient and water on visualization of micromorphology and morphometric outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six healthy nail plates were processed with a fractional CO2 laser, imaged with OCT, and measured with calipers in duplicates. All samples were reassessed after 12‐hour long sequential immersion in water and an emollient (Crodamol™ STS). OCT images were evaluated for thickness and scattering signal of the nail.

Results

Emollient‐impregnation caused stronger scatter responses (P < .0001) and decreased nail thickness (MD 45 μm, P < .0001) measured on OCT. Caliper‐derived measurements were not affected by Crodamol™ (MD 11 μm, P = .5538). Hydration increased nail thickness on OCT (MD 49 μm, P < .0001) but reduced thickness measurements taken with calipers (MD 41 μm, P < .0001). Emollient‐impregnation improved visualization of onychocytes compared with dry (P = .0209) and hydrated samples (P < .0001), and reduced occurrence of refractive artifacts (P < .0001).

Conclusion

The use of an emollient for OCT imaging can enhance nail tissue visualization without significant effects on caliper measurements. Hydration of nails, in contrast with emollient‐impregnation, may lead to disagreement between caliper‐ and OCT‐measured nail thickness and should be practiced cautiously.
Using ex‐ante economic evaluation to inform research priorities in pesticide self‐poisoning prevention: the case of a shop‐based gatekeeper training programme in rural Sri Lanka
Authors: Damerow Sabine Margarete , Weerasinghe Manjula , Madsen Lizell Bustamante , Hansen Kristian Schultz , Pearson Melissa , Eddleston Michael , Konradsen Flemming
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Suicide by pesticide self‐poisoning is a major public health challenge in low‐ and middle‐income countries. While effectiveness studies are required to test alternative prevention approaches, economic evidence is lacking to inform decision‐making in research priority setting. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the costs of a shop‐based gatekeeper training programme for pesticide vendors seeking to prevent pesticide self‐poisoning in rural Sri Lanka and assess its potential for cost‐effectiveness.

Methods

Ex‐ante cost and cost‐effectiveness threshold (CET) analyses were performed from a governmental perspective based on a three‐year analytic horizon, using ‘no programme’ as a comparator. A programme model targeting all 535 pesticide shops in the North Central Province and border areas was applied. Total programme costs (TPC) were estimated in 2019 USD using an ingredients approach and 3% annual discounting. The Sri Lankan gross domestic product per capita and life years saved were used as CET and effectiveness measure, respectively. Sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

TPC were estimated at 31 603.03 USD. TPC were sensitive to cost changes of training material and equipment and the programme lifetime. The programme needs to prevent an estimated 0.23 fatal pesticide self‐poisoning cases over three years to be considered cost‐effective. In the sensitivity analyses, the highest number of fatal cases needed to be prevented to obtain cost‐effectiveness was 4.55 over three years.

Conclusions

From an economic perspective, the programme has a very high potential to be cost‐effective. Research assessing its effectiveness should therefore be completed, and research analysing its transferability to other settings prioritised.
Preoperative erythropoietin within a patient blood management program decreases both blood transfusion and postoperative anemia: a prospective observational study
Authors: Biboulet Philippe , Motais Caroline , Pencole Mathieu , Karam Oliver , Dangelser Gaëtan , Smilevitch Pierre , Maissiat Guillaume , Capdevila Xavier , Bringuier Sophie
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

In orthopedic surgery, a patient blood management program (PBM) has been proposed to reduce blood transfusion. The aim of this observational study was to assess, within a PBM, the specific efficacy of preoperative erythropoietin (EPO).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In a single hospital, 723 patients undergoing elective primary hip or knee arthroplasty were prospectively studied. The PBM included EPO if preoperative hemoglobin was lower than 13 g/dL, intraoperative administration of tranexamic acid, use of recommended transfusion thresholds, and postoperative infusion of iron. Blood transfusion and hemoglobin were noted until discharge. Major thromboembolic or cardiovascular events were assessed during admission and 1 month after discharge.

RESULTS

Transfusion was noted in 2.5% patients with EPO. Transfusion rate was higher in patient for whom EPO was not indicated (13.6% transfusion rate; odds ratio [OR], 13.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.6‐66; p = 10−3) or if erythropoietin was indicated but not administrated (36.8% transfusion rate; OR, 18.2; 95% CI, 3.9‐84.5; p < 10−3). Hemoglobin was significantly higher during the postoperative period in patients with erythropoietin. At hospital discharge, 57% of patients were anemic if EPO was used compared to 88% when EPO was not indicated and 87% when EPO was indicated but not administered (p < 10−6). There were no significant differences in the odds of major complications between patients with or without EPO.

CONCLUSIONS

Within a PBM, preoperative treatment of anemia with EPO decreased both the rate of blood transfusion and postoperative anemia. Further studies are necessary to confirm these results.
Targeted exome sequencing designed for blood group, platelet, and neutrophil antigen investigations: Proof‐of‐principle study for a customized single‐test system
Authors: Roulis Eileen , Schoeman Elizna , Hobbs Matthew , Jones Greg , Burton Mark , Pahn Gail , Liew Yew‐Wah , Flower Robert , Hyland Catherine
Published: July 2020

Background

Immunohematology reference laboratories provide red blood cell (RBC), platelet (PLT), and neutrophil typing to resolve complex cases, using serology and commercial DNA tests that define clinically important antigens. Broad‐range exome sequencing panels that include blood group targets provide accurate blood group antigen predictions beyond those defined by serology and commercial typing systems and identify rare and novel variants. The aim of this study was to design and assess a panel for targeted exome sequencing of RBC, PLT, and neutrophil antigen–associated genes to provide a comprehensive profile in a single test, excluding unrelated gene targets.

Study Design and Methods

An overlapping probe panel was designed for the coding regions of 64 genes and loci involved in gene expression. Sequencing was performed on 34 RBC and 17 PLT/neutrophil reference samples. Variant call outputs were analyzed using software to predict star allele diplotypes. Results were compared with serology and previous sequence genotyping data.

Results

Average coverage exceeded 250×, with more than 94% of targets at Q30 quality or greater. Increased coverage revealed a variant in the Scianna system that was previously undetected. The software correctly predicted allele diplotypes for 99.5% of RBC blood groups tested and 100% of PLT and HNA antigens excepting HNA‐2. Optimal throughput was 12 to 14 samples per run.

Conclusion

This single‐test system demonstrates high coverage and quality, allowing for the detection of previously overlooked variants and increased sample throughput. This system has the potential to integrate genomic testing across laboratories within hematologic reference settings.
Contemporary Family and the Diversity of Family Life Forms
Authors: Mendelová Eleonóra
Published: July 2020

Contemporary Family and the Diversity of Family Life Formpp. Slovakia (as well as other post communistic countries) has been experiencing dynamic changes in family behaviour since 1989, which is reflected in the diversity of family life formpp. The dominant type, nuclear family, which is formed by two parents and a child or children, has been extended, in the process of family behaviour changes, by forms such as a family formed by one adult (a parent) or informal partnership couplepp. The study is aimed at the process of diversification of family behaviour, seeks to present a view of new forms of family and partnership life, and analyzes their difficulties and limitpp. This analysis focuses on five forms of family and partnership life which are typical of the current development and are organized with regard to family life cycle: single, cohabitation, marriage, one parent and reconstructed family. In the conclusion, the author indicates recommendations for family and school education aiming at improving the preparation of students and the young for family life.
May God be Merciful, May he Help me...
Authors: Suchomelová Věra
Published: July 2020

The need for love and support at time of a loss is one of the main spiritual needs of the elderly people. Where can the elderly, faced with physical or mental problems caused by the lack of natural social contacts, draw this love and support from? A majority of the elderly over seventy years of age were brought up in religious society of one of the Christian churches. These elderly reported some form of the Christian faith also in their old age, even though they spent a large part of their lives in a socialist society. This paper deals with the issue of religiosity as a source of love and support in difficult moments; and I refer to some results from the qualitative study “Spiritual needs in the South Bohemian elderly life”. The aim of this paper is to show the importance of spirituality/religiosity in coping with the problems associated with old age and to provide arguments for addressing this topic when training professionals and volunteers working with the elderly.
Attitudes of Elderly People in the South Moravian Region to Further Education
Authors: Adamec Petr , Svoboda Marián
Published: July 2020

This paper deals with the results of sociological survey focused on identification of the attitudes of elderly people to further education. The research was carried out in September 2010. Experience of elderly people with further education, their readiness (determination) for further education as well as their motivation and barriers in further education were also subjects of this research. Detecting elderly population’s awareness of universities of the third age and finding out their further education preferences were an integral part of the research. Research sample consisted of citizens over 55 years living in the South Moravian region. The survey results are structured by socio-demographic features e.g.: age, sex, educational attainment etc. and provide an interesting insight into the attitudes of the target group to one of the activities that contributes to improvement of their quality of life.
Benefits of Physical Literacy and Gymnastics for Physical Education of Older Adults and Seniors
Authors: Novotná Viléma , Holá Iveta , Doležalová Kateřina
Published: July 2020

The quality of life of the elderly is becoming a serious problem of contemporary society. Low level of physical literacy of this group of citizens does not encourage their need for exercise, it does not motivate to physical activity and to the change of lifestyle. The aim of the paper is to select and organize the knowledge about the concept and the direction of physical education of older adults and seniors, to define the conceptual content of physical literacy in education, to provide an example of a possible way to differentiate the offer of education for each age category and to present the appropriate proposal of movement and gymnastics programs for a selected population group. As a method of solution of the issue has been selected questionnaire and interval scaling. The questions in questionnaire survey were selected with regard to the appropriateness of defined gymnastic exercises involved in the concept of physical literacy. The questions were answered by 28 experts, university teachers. Descriptive statistics were used for the classification and analysis of the obtained data. The greatest impact responses gained Importance of exercises for correct body posture and basic locomotion were in responses stated as the most important, followed by realisation of the movements of the body and its parts, orientation in space and balance exercises. In the area of knowledge safety of physical activity, the execution of the movement and the importance of prevention and health benefits reached nearly 90%. Into the content of physical literacy of older people and seniors were selected five groups of inventories of gymnastic activities: body posture, locomotion, balance, flexibility and handling skills. Physical education of elderly population should be oriented to the optimal level of health focused fitness, acquiring specific skills, strengthening of resilience, well-being and social cohesion.
Lab-Scale, Closed-Loop Experimental Characterization, Model Refinement, and Validation of a Hydrokinetic Energy-Harvesting Ocean Kite
Authors: Siddiqui Ayaz , Naik Kartik , Cobb Mitchell , Granlund Kenneth , Vermillion Chris
Published: July 2020

This paper presents a study wherein we experimentally characterize the dynamics and control system of a lab-scale ocean kite, and then refine, validate, and extrapolate this model for use in a full-scale system. Ocean kite systems, which harvest tidal and ocean current resources through high-efficiency cross-current motion, enable energy extraction with an order of magnitude less material (and cost) than stationary systems with the same rated power output. However, an ocean kite represents a nascent technology that is characterized by relatively complex dynamics and requires sophisticated control algorithms. In order to characterize the dynamics and control of ocean kite systems rapidly, at a relatively low cost, the authors have developed a lab-scale, closed-loop prototyping environment for characterizing tethered systems, whereby 3D printed systems are tethered and flown in a water channel environment. While this system has been shown to be capable of yielding similar dynamic characteristics to some full-scale systems, there are also fundamental limitations to the geometric scales and flow speeds within the water channel environment, making many other real-world scenarios impossible to replicate from the standpoint of dynamic similarity. To address these scenarios, we show how the lab-scale framework is used to refine and validate a scalable dynamic model of a tethered system, which can then be extrapolated to full-scale operation. In this work, we present an extensive case study of this model refinement, validation, and extrapolation on an ocean kite system intended for operation in the Gulf Stream or similar current environments.
Inverse Heat Transfer Study of a Power Transmission Line Tower Foundation
Authors: Zhang Daqian , Duan Xili
Published: July 2020

In some northern regions, power transmission lines are built with metal tower footings buried in the permafrost. With a high thermal conductivity, the tower footing has a significant thermal effect on the foundation and the nearby permafrost. Heat transfer models were previously developed to predict the thermal effect with line heat source assumptions, without knowing the exact spatial distribution and temporal variation of the heat source strength. This limited the accuracy of these heat transfer models. In this work, an inverse heat transfer method (IHTM) based on dynamic matrix control (DMC) theory is developed to better estimate the heat source strength representing the tower footing. The methodology is validated with numerical simulations and experimental data. It is found that the distribution of heat source varies spatially and temporally in a more complicated way than what was assumed in previous studies. The inversed heat source is then used to reconstruct the temperature fields in a tower foundation, which provides more accurate heat transfer analysis for design and maintenance of the foundation.