bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building a new resilience
Authors: Hirsch Peter Buell
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the viewpoint is to examine the various ways in which the pandemic has exposed structural vulnerabilities in global business infrastructures that have long existed and been long ignored. It urges business leaders not to return to a “new normal” but make fundamental changes to ensure that their businesses are truly resilient and can withstand future threats more effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The viewpoint looks at the various kinds of vulnerability to which businesses are exposed – such as supply chain, human capital, cyber security and climate change – and proposes ways to ensure that businesses, as well as shareholders and government entities work together to build true resilience.

Findings

At its core, the viewpoint exposes the various ways in which businesses have turned a blind eye to vulnerabilities that have always lurked just below the surface and suggests. The argument is that to secure the long-term future of our global business system, we can no longer remain oblivious to fundamental weaknesses in our infrastructures.

Research limitations/implications

The viewpoint looks selectively at the available data and is, therefore, by definition, subjective and non-comprehensive.

Practical implications

If businesses and shareholders truly take the recommendations of this viewpoint to heart, we can build a more resilient future through long-term investments in risk management infrastructures of all kinds that will secure a more prosperous and stable future.

Social implications

Developing a more resilient and stable global business infrastructure will help reduce the business volatility deriving from last minute responses to predictable threats. This will, in turn, help provide more stable, fulfilling employment, especially in developing countries that will act as a fly wheel for the secure development of human potential around the world.

Originality/value

While there has been much speculation of what the “new business normal” will look like once the pandemic has been conquered, this is, the author believes, the first piece to look concretely on how we can not only “build back better” but build back more soundly for the long term.
Is there a future for accelerationism?
Authors: Haynes Paul
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This article contributes to the debate by arguing that addressing the core concept underpinning accelerationism and helps to unpack a number of key assumptions on the nature of capitalism, identifying areas offering new and productive insights into organisation and organisations. The scope of the article will be to examine the accelerationist literature, in particular, the core principles first emerging in the prehistory of accelerationism and further developed through the various waves and iterations of the concept.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper offers a conceptual approach to accelerationism. It develops a critical literature review and uses a process of exemplification to highlight insights for organisation and organisations.

Findings

The paper concludes that the underpinnings of accelerationism are not well understood and thus much of the critique misses the more intriguing and interesting insights from the cluster of ideas at its core.

Originality/value

The scope of the paper is to provide a coherent and accessible way to navigate through a complex and demanding series of concepts. The value of the paper is that it helps to identify potential insights relevant to management, marketing and organisational scholars.
Determination of 5‐hydroxy oxindole by high performance liquid chromatography in Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis extracts
Authors: Choi Sung‐Up , Choi In‐Hag , Chung Tae‐Ho
Published: February 2021

White‐spotted flower larvae (Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis; PBS) have recently been approved as a food ingredient in Korea. They confer an antithrombotic effect in addition to various nutrients, including protein, fat, and dietary fiber. However, a quantitative analytical method is still required for the analysis of medicinal foods or medicines containing the active ingredient (5‐hydroxy oxindole, 5‐HI). The HPLC method validated on PBS larvae was verified through parameters such as linearity, specificity, range, accuracy, precision, detection limit, and quantitation limit. All the parameters tested met these criteria and were applied to the successful detection of the extract in PBS larvae. This HPLC method to detect 5‐HI could be used as a validated assay in regulatory processes.
A chromosome‐level assembly of the black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) genome facilitates the identification of growth‐associated genes
Authors: Uengwetwanit Tanaporn , Pootakham Wirulda , Nookaew Intawat , Sonthirod Chutima , Angthong Pacharaporn , Sittikankaew Kanchana , Rungrassamee Wanilada , Arayamethakorn Sopacha , Wongsurawat Thidathip , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Sangsrakru Duangjai , Leelatanawit Rungnapa , Khudet Jutatip , Koehorst Jasper J. , Schaap Peter J. , Martins dos Santos Vitor , Tangy Frédéric , Karoonuthaisiri Nitsara
Published: February 2021

To salvage marine ecosystems from fishery overexploitation, sustainable and efficient aquaculture must be emphasized. The knowledge obtained from available genome sequence of marine organisms has accelerated marine aquaculture in many cases. The black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) is one of the most prominent cultured penaeid shrimps (Crustacean) with an average annual global production of half a million tons in the last decade. However, its currently available genome assemblies lack the contiguity and completeness required for accurate genome annotation due to the highly repetitive nature of the genome and technical difficulty in extracting high‐quality, high‐molecular weight DNA. Here, we report the first chromosome‐level whole‐genome assembly of P. monodon. The combination of long‐read Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) and long‐range Chicago and Hi‐C technologies enabled a successful assembly of this first high‐quality genome sequence. The final assembly covered 2.39 Gb (92.3% of the estimated genome size) and contained 44 pseudomolecules, corresponding to the haploid chromosome number. Repetitive elements occupied a substantial portion of the assembly (62.5%), the highest of the figures reported among crustacean species. The availability of this high‐quality genome assembly enabled the identification of genes associated with rapid growth in the black tiger shrimp through the comparison of hepatopancreas transcriptome of slow‐growing and fast‐growing shrimps. The results highlighted several growth‐associated genes. Our high‐quality genome assembly provides an invaluable resource for genetic improvement and breeding penaeid shrimp in aquaculture. The availability of P. monodon genome enables analyses of ecological impact, environment adaptation and evolution, as well as the role of the genome to protect the ecological resources by promoting sustainable shrimp farming.
Safety and efficacy of administering reduced doses of pegylated recombinant human granulocyte‐colony stimulating factors in patients treated with cisplatin and etoposide for small cell carcinoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Liu Chang , Hao Ying , Wang Lei , Meng Fanlu , Wen Fuyu , Zhong Diansheng
Published: February 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to discuss the safety and efficacy of administering reduced doses (3 mg) of pegylated recombinant human granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (PEG‐rhG‐CSF) at approximately 24 h or up to three days following treatment with etoposide and cisplatin (EP).

Methods

A total of 104 cycles from 31 patients were divided into a PEG‐rhG‐CSF prophylaxis group (PP‐Group) and a control group (No‐PP‐Group). The PP‐Group received a reduced dose of 3 mg of PEG‐rhG‐CSF within a minimum of 15 h and a maximum of 72 h following EP chemotherapy, while the rest did not receive any G‐CSF prophylaxis (No‐PP‐Group). For both groups, complete blood counts, incidence of febrile neutropenia (FN), grade III or IV neutropenia, and the use of antibiotics to treat neutropenia were recorded.

Results

There was statistically no significant difference in the incidence of FN (0% vs. 1.4%, p = 1), antibiotic use due to neutropenia (0% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.881), estimated lowest mean marginal (EM) platelet (106.56 × 109/L vs. 127.70 × 109/L, p = 0.056) and hemoglobin (110.48 g/L vs. 110.14 g/L, p = 0.906) levels between the two groups. However, when compared with the No‐PP‐group, the white blood cell count in the PP‐group was significantly higher (EM means: 4.95 × 109/L vs. 2.80 × 109/L, p < 0.01), while the incidence of grade III or IV neutropenia was significantly lower (9.1% vs. 68.1%, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The administration of a low dose (3 mg) of PEG‐rhG‐CSF within approximately 24 h or up to three days following EP treatment is safe and effective at reducing the risk of neutropenia. These findings bring a more flexible administration interval between PEG‐rhG‐CSF and EP treatment.
Patch testing in New Zealand: Barriers to evidence‐based care
Authors: Sapsford Sabrina , Kennedy Harriet , Judd Lissa
Published: February 2021

Allergic contact dermatitis is a disabling condition, significantly impacting on quality of life, which can only be alleviated by identification and avoidance of a relevant allergen. Patch testing remains the gold standard diagnostic test for allergic contact dermatitis. The consistency with which patch testing is used varies throughout the world. The purpose of this study was to look at the adequacy of current patch testing practice in New Zealand. We undertook literature review of current guidance regarding patch testing and created a web‐based survey to evaluate use of patch testing in New Zealand. This was sent to all 75 vocationally registered New Zealand dermatologists. Of respondents, 46% do not perform patch testing. The most commonly cited barriers were lack of nursing support, poor remuneration, time pressure and lack of facilities. 23% noted that public patch testing services are not available in their region. The majority do not record patch test results in a database. Access to and utilisation of patch testing in New Zealand is suboptimal. Increasing services in the public sector requires investment by health boards, as there remains a dermatology workforce shortage in New Zealand. In private practice, patients often find it unsatisfactory to pay for negative tests, and adequate remuneration of patch testing by private insurers is necessary. Surveillance of patch test results at a national level is lacking, and the development of a centralised database to identify common allergens affecting our population is recommended.
How good is the Australian baseline series at detecting allergic contact dermatitis?
Authors: Dear Kate , Bala Harini , Palmer Amanda , Nixon Rosemary Louise
Published: February 2021

Background

Patch testing is the gold standard for the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The Australian Baseline Series (ABS) was formulated by our group to include the 60 most common and relevant allergens in our patient population. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of testing with the Australian Baseline Series in order to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 964 patients with ACD diagnosed at our centre from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2018. Patients with at least one relevant positive reaction were stratified into three groups: i) reactions only to allergens in the Australian Baseline Series; ii) reactions to allergens in the Australian Baseline Series and to additional allergens; and iii) reactions only to allergens not present in the Australian Baseline Series.

Results

The Australian Baseline Series alone was successful in identifying the cause of allergic contact dermatitis in 63.4% (611/964) of patients. In 23.0% (222/964), the Australian Baseline Series detected at least one relevant allergen, but there were relevant allergens outside of the Australian Baseline Series as well. In 13.6% (141/964), no relevant allergens were detected in the Australian Baseline Series, but allergens were detected in additional series or by testing patients’ own products. The most frequently occurring allergens not included in the Australian Baseline Series were citral, ammonium persulfate, geraniol, oakmoss absolute and chlorhexidine diacetate.

Conclusions

The Australian Baseline Series is an adequate screening tool for identifying patients with ACD. Nevertheless, females should be additionally routinely tested with the fragrance series. Patients with suspected occupationally related dermatitis should always be tested with additional allergens and own products.
Allogeneic and autologous serum eye drops: a pilot double‐blind randomized crossover trial
Authors: van der Meer Pieter F. , Verbakel Sanne K. , Honohan Áine , Lorinser Jos , Thurlings Rogier M. , Jacobs Joannes F.M. , de Korte Dirk , Eggink Catharina A.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Serum eye drops (SEDs) are used to treat a variety of ocular surface defects. Serum eye drops (SEDs) are normally produced from the patient’s blood. However, not all patients can donate sufficient or suitable blood, and logistics can be challenging. Allogeneic blood from voluntary blood donors does not have these disadvantages. Our aim was to evaluate whether autologous and allogeneic SEDs have comparable efficacy and tolerability.

Methods

In a prospective, double‐blind crossover trial, patients with severe dry eyes were randomized to first receive autologous SEDs for one month, followed by one‐month washout, before receiving allogeneic SEDs for 1 month; or receive the SED preparations in reverse order. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was the primary endpoint, and various secondary endpoints were determined. A linear mixed model with random intercept for each patient was applied per treatment group to compare the pre‐ and postoutcome measurements.

Results

Nineteen patients were enrolled, of whom 15 completed the trial. When autologous SEDs were used, the mean ± SD OSDI improved from 62 ± 19 to 57 ± 18. For allogeneic SEDs, the OSDI changed from 59 ± 20 to 56 ± 23. The estimated mean difference (95% confidence interval) was −4.2 (−9.5 to 1.2) for autologous and −4.5 (−9.8 to 0.9) for allogeneic SEDs (both, not significant). Adverse events were mild and resolved completely.

Conclusion

Autologous and allogeneic SEDs have comparable efficacy and tolerability for use in patients with severe dry eyes. Allogeneic SEDs are therefore an attractive alternative for patients who need SEDs but are clinically or logistically unable to donate blood.
Identity formation, Christian networks, and the peripheries of Kachin ethnonational identity
Authors: Pelletier Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Why do regional identities develop (or not)? While we know about the institutional incentives that make some identities more salient than others, we know much less about the conditions that make nation‐builders more or less successful. To fill this gap, this paper examines the organizational dimensions of identity formation and the peripheries of Kachin nationalism in Myanmar. It argues that identity formation is shaped by political entrepreneurs’ capacity to (1) create inclusive inter‐elite alliances and (2) turn individuals into “citizens” of a larger ensemble. Empirically, it seeks to understand why we find resistance to a pan‐Kachin identity among two “Kachin” subgroups: Rawang and Lisu. The article shows that their conditional Kachin identity is the outcome of (1) incomplete inter‐elite alliances due to the uneven spread of Christian networks through which nation‐builders worked; and (2) the KIO’s variable and declining capacity to provide public goods inclusively across all Kachin groups.
The influence of culture on children’s immediate and delayed retrieval
Authors: Qi Hongyuan , Roberts Kim P.
Published: February 2021

Culture shapes children’s memories. However, scant attention has been given to the influence of culture on specific memory stages. Thus, we conducted two controlled experiments to examine cultural differences in memory recall at immediate and delayed retrieval phases. In Studies 1 and 2 (n = 217), 7‐ to 10‐year‐old Chinese and Euro‐Canadian children watched a story involving both social‐ and individual‐focused scenarios. Participants then recalled the story immediately afterwards (Study 1) and 5–7 days later (Studies 1 and 2). Findings reveal that Chinese children accurately reported more details from the social‐focused events than did their Euro‐Canadian counterparts in the immediate interview, and this result was replicated after a delay in both studies. Moreover, as expected, within‐country comparisons showed that Euro‐Canadian children had better memory for individual‐ than for social‐focused events in both studies. Chinese children, however, showed better memory for social‐ than for individual‐focused events only in the immediate interview in Study 1; their delayed retrieval was not affected by event focus. These findings reveal that cultural variations in memory are evident in both immediate and delayed retrieval. Implications for future research are discussed.
“Who Would Watch the Animals?”: Gendered Knowledge and Expert Performance Among Andean Pastoralists
Authors: Caine Allison
Published: February 2021

In recent decades, global and regional pastoralist development initiatives have articulated their project goals within the broader objective of climate change adaptation. Development programs in the high Andes have sought to diminish pastoralist vulnerability to the impacts of shifting seasonal weather patterns and glacial retreat. Despite the increase in attention to the gendered distribution of climate change risks and strategies globally, women alpaca herders in the Andes continue to be sidelined in discussions around animal health and pasture management. I argue that women’s marginalization reflects the ways that pastoralist expertise is ascribed and reproduced in interactional encounters. Andean women herders lack access to the social, political, and economic resources necessary to perform expertise in a ratified way, and as a consequence are left out of critical decision‐making processes around climate change adaptation. An attention to women’s herding work yields insight into pastoralist knowledge and skill as distributive, relational, and embedded within social networks that are at increasing risk of fragmentation.
Spatial distribution of benthic algae in the South China Sea: Responses to gradually changing environmental factors and ecological impacts on coral communities
Authors: Liao Zhiheng , Yu Kefu , Chen Biao , Huang Xueyong , Qin Zhenjun , Yu Xiaopeng
Published: February 2021

Aim

In this study, we investigated whether environmental factors can effectively control the spatial distribution of various benthic algae and examined the critical ecological impacts of algae on corals across the South China Sea (SCS). Relationships between benthic algae and environmental factors were assessed, and potential ecological impacts of algae on coral communities were evaluated across spatial scales.

Location

A total of 104 sites at 12 coral reefs in four coral reef regions (CRRs) of the SCS (latitude range of 9–22° N).

Taxa

Turf algae, macroalgae (including fleshy macroalgae and Halimeda), crustose coralline algae (CCA), coral and juvenile coral.

Methods

Using diver‐based surveys (2015–2018), we investigated four CRRs with different reef distance to mainland (RDM) across the SCS. We obtained field data on benthic algal composition and cover, coral cover and diversity, and juvenile coral density. We also measured and collected the environmental factors (including seawater environmental parameters and reef fish diversity).

Results

The cover of turf algae and CCA gradually decreased and increased, respectively, with an increase in RDM, which had a strong relationship with the gradually changing environmental factors. Random forest models suggested that nutrients, reef fish diversity, seawater transparency and temperature were the most important factors for predicting turf algae and CCA cover. Linear regression analyses showed a significant relationship between the turf algae, macroalgae, and CCA covers, and juvenile coral density.

Main conclusions

Our results showed that gradually changing environmental factors were correlated with the spatial distributions of turf algae and CCA. However, the natural biophysical relationships between macroalgae and environmental factors may be disrupted by turf algal overgrowth and nutrient subsidies. Increases in all benthic algal groups significantly impacted coral recruitment, highlighting the critical role of benthic algae in determining the recovery trajectory of the Indo‐Pacific reefs that are threatened by human activities.
Serial echocardiography for valve dysfunction and aortic dilation in bicuspid aortic valves
Authors: Parker Matthew W. , Muchnik Renee Dallasen , Ogunsua Adedotun , Kundu Amartya , Lakshmanan Suvasini , Shah Nikhil , Dickey John B. , Gentile Bryon A. , Pape Linda A.
Published: February 2021

Background and aims

Complications of bicuspid aortic valve commonly include aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, and ascending aortic dilation. The progression of these lesions is not well described.

Materials and methods

We reviewed 249 bicuspid aortic valve patients with at least two echocardiograms from 2006 to 2016. Valve morphology (right–left or right–noncoronary cusp fusion) was confirmed by visual inspection, and aortic stenosis and regurgitation were quantified according to current guidelines; the ascending aorta was measured at end‐systole 2–3 cm above the sinotubular junction. Annualized progression of stenosis, regurgitation, and aortic dilation from first to most recent echocardiogram were compared between right–left and right–nonfused valves using multivariable logistic regression to adjust for baseline differences in groups.

Results

Among 249 bicuspid aortic valve patients (mean age 47.6 ± 13.5 years, 66.3% male), 75.9% had right–left cusp fusion. At baseline, aortic stenosis was absent or mild in 80.3%; aortic regurgitation was absent or mild in 80.7%; and aortic diameters were 35.0 ± 5.7 mm (sinuses of Valsalva) and 37.4 ± 6.2 mm (ascending). Mean annualized decrease in aortic valve area was 0.07 cm2/year, with 30% of bicuspid aortic valve patients progressing ≥0.1 cm2/year. Aortic regurgitation progressed ≥1 grade in 37 patients. Mean annualized increase in ascending aorta diameter was 0.36 mm/year in right–left and 0.65 mm/year in right–nonbicuspid valves.

Conclusions

In this serial echocardiographic study of bicuspid aortic valve patients, cusp orientation was not associated with progression of valve dysfunction. Right–noncoronary cusp fusion was associated with ascending aortic diameter progression.
Conversations that count: Cellular interactions that drive T cell fate
Authors: Duckworth Brigette C. , Groom Joanna R.
Published: February 2021

The relationship between the extrinsic environment and the internal transcriptional network is circular. Naive T cells first engage with antigen‐presenting cells to set transcriptional differentiation networks in motion. In turn, this regulates specific chemokine receptors that direct migration into distinct lymph node niches. Movement into these regions brings newly activated T cells into contact with accessory cells and cytokines that reinforce the differentiation programming to specify T cell function. We and others have observed similarities in the transcriptional networks that specify both CD4+ T follicular helper (TFH) cells and CD8+ central memory stem‐like (TSCM) cells. Here, we compare and contrast the current knowledge for these shared differentiation programs, compared to their effector counterparts, CD4+ T‐helper 1 (TH1) and CD8+ short‐lived effector (TSLEC) cells. Understanding the interplay between cellular interactions and transcriptional programming is essential to harness T cell differentiation that is fit for purpose; to stimulate potent T cell effector function for the elimination of chronic infection and cancer; or to amplify the formation of humoral immunity and longevity of cellular memory to prevent infectious diseases.
Sampling and distribution pattern of Trioza erytreae Del Guercio, 1918 (Hemiptera: Triozidae) in citrus orchard
Authors: Benhadi‐Marín Jacinto , Pereira Luís F. , Rodrigues Isabel , Fereres Alberto , Alberto Pereira José
Published: February 2021

Developing efficient sampling protocols is essential to monitor crop pests. One vector of the citrus disease HLB, the African citrus psyllid Trioza erytreae Del Guercio, 1918 (Hemiptera: Triozidae), currently threatens the lemon industry throughout the Mediterranean region. In this work, a pool of sampling methods devoted to monitoring the population of T. erytreae was compared, its spatial distribution in the orchard was assessed, and the minimum sampling effort for the best sampling method was estimated. Three lemon orchards in North‐western Portugal were sampled for one year using two types of yellow sticky traps (standard yellow and fluorescent Saturn yellow), B‐vac sampling and sweep net sampling. The method that best performed, in terms of cost‐efficiency, was the yellow sticky traps. The two colours of the sticky traps tested did not yield a significantly different number of catches. The spatial distribution throughout the orchards was found to be aggregated towards the borders. A minimum of three sticky traps per hectare was found to be enough to estimate the population at 90% accuracy for the mean during the outbreak. These results should help to monitor and anticipate outbreaks that may even colonize neighbour orchards. Studies on the local dispersion patterns of T. erytreae throughout the orchard are mandatory to further refine and optimize efficient monitoring protocols.
Illuminating the planktonic stages of salmon lice: A unique fluorescence signal for rapid identification of a rare copepod in zooplankton assemblages
Authors: Thompson Cameron R. S. , Bron James E. , Bui Samantha , Dalvin Sussie , Fordyce Mark J. , Furmanek Tomasz , á Norði Gunnvør , Skern‐Mauritzen Rasmus
Published: February 2021

Monitoring of planktonic salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis salmonis) abundance and parameterization of key life‐history traits has been hindered by labour‐intensive and error‐prone quantification using traditional light microscopy. Fluorescence illumination has been proposed as a means of improving visualization, but prior to this study adequate investigation of the relevant fluorescence profiles and measurement conditions has not been undertaken. We investigated the fluorescence profiles of L. salmonis and non‐target copepod spp. with excitation and emission matrices (200–600 nm) and identified unique fluorescence signals. Fluorescence microscopy using excitation wavelengths of 470 ± 40 nm, and emission wavelengths of 525 ± 50 nm, showed that after 90 days of formalin storage salmon lice have a mean fluorescence intensity that is 2.4 times greater than non‐target copepods (copepodid and adult stages). A 7‐day heat treatment of 42°C in formalin increased the difference between salmon louse copepodids and non‐target copepods to a factor of 3.6, eliminating the need for prolonged storage. Differences in the fluorescence signal and endogenous fluorophores were investigated with respect to variation in sea lice species, age, stage and host fish origin. Under the conditions outlined in this paper, the fluorescence signal was found to be a reliable means of visualizing and differentiating salmon lice from non‐target zooplankters. Adaptation of the fluorescence signal would greatly expedite traditional methods of enumerating salmon louse larvae in plankton samples and could provide a means of automated detection.
Association of in utero antibiotic exposure on childhood ear infection trajectories: Results from a national birth cohort study
Authors: Hu Yanhong J , Wang Jing , Harwell Joseph I , Wake Melissa
Published: February 2021

Aim

Most prescribed medicines during pregnancy are antibiotics, with unknown effects on a fetus and on the infant's acquired microbiome. This study investigates associations between in utero antibiotic exposure and ear infection trajectories over the first decade of life, hypothesising effects on early or persistent, rather than later‐developing, ear infections.

Methods

Design and participants: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children birth cohort recruited a nationally‐representative sample of 5107 infants in 2004. Measures: Mothers reported antibiotic use in pregnancy when a child was 3–21 months old (wave 1), and ongoing problems with ear infection every 2 years spanning ages 0–1 to 10–11 years (waves 1–6). Analysis: Latent class models identified ear infection trajectories, and univariable and multivariable multinomial logistic regression determined odds of adverse trajectories by antibiotic exposure.

Results

A total of 4500 (88.1% of original sample) children contributed (mean baseline age 0.7 years; 51.3% boys); 10.4% of mothers reported antibiotic use in pregnancy. Four probability trajectories for ear infection emerged: ‘consistently low’ (86.2%), ‘moderate to low’ (5.6%), ‘low to moderate’ (6.7%) and ‘consistently high’ (1.4%). Antibiotic use in pregnancy was associated with children following ‘consistently high’ (adjusted odds ratio 2.04, 95% confidence interval 1.08–3.88, P = 0.03) and ‘moderate to low’ (adjusted odds ratio 1.78, 95% confidence interval 1.25–2.53, P = 0.001) trajectories.

Conclusions

Antibiotic use in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of persistent and early childhood ear infections. This highlights the wisdom of cautious antibiotic use during pregnancy, and the need for the study of potential mechanisms underlying these associations.
Pelage variation in dingoes across southeastern Australia: implications for conservation and management
Authors: Cairns K. M. , Newman K. D. , Crowther M. S. , Letnic M.
Published: February 2021

How to manage hybridization and introgression in wild animals is controversial. Wildlife managers and researchers may often rely upon phenotypic variables such as coat colour to inform on ground management decisions. In Australia, dingoes are typically believed to be ginger in colour, and unusual coat colours such as brindle or sable are widely posited to be evidence of contemporary domestic dog hybridization. We carried out microsatellite‐based genotyping on 1325 wild canids from southeastern Australia of known coat colour to estimate the extent of domestic dog introgression. A key aim of our study was to examine the relationship between coat colour and ancestry in wild dingoes. We observed that 27.4% of our samples were dingoes with no evidence of domestic dog ancestry whilst 72.6% were dingoes with some domestic dog ancestry. Our data confirm that feral dogs, domestic dogs with no dingo ancestry, are rare in the wild, representing less than 1.5% of the population. There was no coat colour that could distinguish dingoes with or without dog ancestry from each other. Contrary to popular belief, colours such as brindle and patchy were positively associated with dingoes with no dog ancestry and were less common in dingoes of mixed ancestry. A key finding of this work is that coat colour should not be used to assess ancestry in dingoes. Further research is needed to uncover the antiquity, origin and potential adaptive value of these genomic regions. It is possible that this is a similar example of adaptive introgression as has been observed in North American wolves with black coat colour. These data add perspective to global debates about how to manage and conserve enigmatic animal populations in the presence of modern or historical introgression.
Are radiological endpoints surrogate outcomes of overall survival in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with transarterial chemoembolization?
Authors: Celsa Ciro , Cabibbo Giuseppe , Enea Marco , Battaglia Salvatore , Rizzo Giacomo E. M. , Busacca Anita , Giuffrida Paolo , Stornello Caterina , Brancatelli Giuseppe , Cannella Roberto , Gruttadauria Salvatore , Cammà Calogero
Published: February 2021

Background& Aims

Time to progression (TTP) and progression‐free survival (PFS) are commonly used as surrogate endpoints in oncology trials. We aimed to assess the surrogacy relationship of TTP and PFS with overall survival (OS) in studies of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u‐HCC) by innovative methods.

Methods

A search of databases for studies of TACE for u‐HCC reporting both OS and TTP or PFS was performed. Individual patient data were extracted from TTP/PFS and OS Kaplan‐Meier curves of TACE arms. Pooled median TTP and OS were obtained from random‐effect model. The surrogate relationships of hazard ratios (HRs) and median TTP for OS were evaluated by the coefficient of determination R2.

Results

We identified 13 studies comparing TACE vs systemic therapy or vs TACE plus systemic therapy and including 1932 TACE‐treated patients. Pooled median OS was 11.2 months (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 7.9‐17.8), and pooled median TTP was 5.4 months (95%CI 3.8‐8.0). Heterogeneity among studies was highly significant for both outcomes. The correlation between HR TTP and HR OS was moderate (R2 = 0.65. 95%CI 0.08‐0.81). R2 value was 0.04 (95%CI 0.00‐0.35) between median TTP and median OS.

Conclusion

In studies of TACE for u‐HCC, the surrogate relationship of radiology‐based endpoints with OS is moderate. Multiple endpoints including hepatic decompensation, macrovascular invasion and extrahepatic spread are needed for future trials comparing systemic therapies or combination of TACE with systemic therapies vs TACE alone.
Connecting tree‐ring phenotypes, genetic associations and transcriptomics to decipher the genomic architecture of drought adaptation in a widespread conifer
Authors: Depardieu Claire , Gérardi Sébastien , Nadeau Simon , Parent Geneviève J. , Mackay John , Lenz Patrick , Lamothe Manuel , Girardin Martin P. , Bousquet Jean , Isabel Nathalie
Published: February 2021

As boreal forests face significant threats from climate change, understanding evolutionary trajectories of coniferous species has become fundamental to adapting management and conservation to a drying climate. We examined the genomic architecture underlying adaptive variation related to drought tolerance in 43 populations of a widespread boreal conifer, white spruce (Picea glauca [Moench] Voss), by combining genotype–environment associations, genotype–phenotype associations, and transcriptomics. Adaptive genetic variation was identified by correlating allele frequencies for 6,153 single nucleotide polymorphisms from 2,606 candidate genes with temperature, precipitation and aridity gradients, and testing for significant associations between genotypes and 11 dendrometric and drought‐related traits (i.e., anatomical, growth response and climate‐sensitivity traits) using a polygenic model. We identified a set of 285 genes significantly associated with a climatic factor or a phenotypic trait, including 110 that were differentially expressed in response to drought under greenhouse‐controlled conditions. The interlinked phenotype–genotype–environment network revealed eight high‐confidence genes involved in white spruce adaptation to drought, of which four were drought‐responsive in the expression analysis. Our findings represent a significant step toward the characterization of the genomic basis of drought tolerance and adaptation to climate in conifers, which is essential to enable the establishment of resilient forests in view of new climate conditions.
Updating with Others: Testing the Effect of Informational Social Influence on Political Attitudes
Authors: Houck Aaron M. , King Aaron S. , Taylor J. Benjamin
Published: February 2021

What role does information concerning the beliefs of others play in the correction, or persistence, of misperceptions? Can social pressure affect whether someone will change their mind on a salient political issue? Building on the “backfire effect” and informational context literatures, we theorize that informational social influence can affect one's willingness to accept new information. Specifically, when individuals receive partisan cues, their attitudes will be different compared to individuals without similar social influence. We test our theory and hypotheses using a unique experimental between‐subjects design using a student sample (N = 839) as well as a nationally representative sample (N = 777). Using the salient debate over voter identification laws, we find some evidence for our theory. We conclude by considering the policy implications of our analysis and directions for future research.

Related Articles

Caillier, James. 2010. “Citizen Trust, Political Corruption, and Voting Behavior: Connecting the Dots.” Politics & Policy 38 (5): 1015‐1035. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00267

Dettrey, Bryan J. 2013. “Relative Losses and Economic Voting: Sociotropic Considerations or ‘Keeping up with the Joneses?’” Politics & Policy 41 (5): 788‐806. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12038

Nielson, Lindsay. 2017. “Ranked Choice Voting and Attitudes toward Democracy in the United States: Results from a Survey Experiment.” Politics & Policy 45 (4): 535‐570. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12212
Critical thinking of psychology students: A within‐ and cross‐cultural study using Rasch models
Authors: Nielsen Tine , Martínez‐García Inmaculada , Alastor Enrique
Published: February 2021

The primary aim of this study was to conduct a cross‐cultural comparison of the level of critical thinking of Danish and Spanish psychology students (N = 788) attending innately different bachelor‐level courses; personality psychology and introductory statistics/research methods. Several instruments are available for the assessment of critical thinking (CTh), but most are, however, unsuitable for use in large surveys with many constructs, due to length or single‐person administration formats. One brief and much‐used scale is the CTh scale in the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), used in this study. To ensure unbiased comparisons across countries and courses, our secondary aim was to investigate the content validity, as well as the psychometric properties, of the CTh scale to ensure the most accurate and unbiased comparison. For this purpose, Rasch and graphical loglinear Rasch models were used. After reducing the number of items due to content validity issues, the CTh scale fitted Rasch models within each national sample, and was measurement invariant relative to age group, gender, course and university. In the cross‐cultural item analysis, two items functioned differentially relative to nationality, and the scale fitted a graphical loglinear Rasch model. CTh scores related to introductory statistics/research methods courses differed significantly from scores related to personality psychology, for Danish students only.
Atypical free‐floating iridociliary pigmented epithelial cysts and secondary glaucoma in a caiman (Caiman latirostris)
Authors: Oriá Arianne Pontes , Estrela‐Lima Alessandra , Teixeira Leandro B. C. , Dubielzig Richard R. , Ofri Ron
Published: February 2021

We describe a case of chronic ocular trauma that resulted in fixed and free‐floating, pigmented epithelial iridociliary cysts, inflammation, and secondary glaucoma in a caiman (Caiman latirostris). A 20‐ to 25‐year‐old male caiman was presented with phthisis bulbi in the right eye, and congested episcleral vessels, corneal leukoma, disorganized anterior chamber, multifocal anterior synechia, and elevated intraocular pressure in the left eye. Ocular ultrasound of the left eye revealed round structures dispersed in the anterior and posterior chambers and vitreous cavity. Bilateral enucleation was performed, and gross pathology of the left eye revealed multiple pigmented cysts attached to the iris and posterior corneal surface causing marked distortion of the anterior uvea, and free‐floating in the vitreous cavity. Histopathology demonstrated heavily pigmented cystic structures of iridociliary epithelium origin carpeting the anterior segment surfaces and causing obstruction of the iridocorneal angles, leading to secondary glaucoma. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of iridociliary cysts in wildlife species.
La utilización de la constitución vigente como freno a grandes transformaciones políticas. Los casos de Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador y el reciente caso de Catalunya en el Reino de España
Authors: Compains Silva Eneko
Published: February 2021

Como es sabido, Catalunya se encuentra inmersa en pleno proceso soberanista. Desde hace años, una mayoría social, política e institucional promueve dicho proceso con el objetivo de fundar una república catalana independiente. Desde Madrid, el Gobierno de España trata de frenar dicho proceso, pero para ello, en vez de utilizar herramientas habituales en política como el diálogo, la negociación y el acuerdo, se empeña en acudir al Tribunal Constitucional para que este, Constitución en mano, prohíba o anule las distintas decisiones que una mayoría democrática en Catalunya viene aprobando. Es decir, parece que se utiliza continuamente la Constitución vigente para frenar en los Tribunales lo que no se puede frenar con votos en las instituciones de Catalunya. ¿Es realmente así?, ¿es legítimo hacer esto?, ¿existen casos similares? Salvando las distancias, a priori parece algo similar a lo que ya ha ocurrido en el caso de otras grandes transformaciones políticas, como lo fueron los procesos constituyentes de Venezuela, Bolivia y Ecuador. El presente trabajo pretende analizar todos esos casos, tanto en su vertiente política como en la jurídica.
A Method of Balancing Reciprocating Machines
Authors: Johnson W. E.
Published: February 2021

General types of balancing problems are classified into three groups: Those requiring perfect balance, those in which the machine inherently is balanced sufficiently well for practical purposes, and those requiring a distinct compromise, such as single-cylinder engines. It is a method of securing an optimum condition for the last class that is presented.

The method consists, first, of the selection of a suitable criterion for the particular problem, such as minimizing the average potential energy of vibration in a spring mounting, which tends to secure the least possible transmission of vibration. Another criterion may reduce the vibration of the machine itself to a minimum. The selection of a suitable criterion is a matter for the judgment of the designer. When the selection is made, the attainment of the optimum sought is carried out by mathematical analysis. This general method is particularly useful for balancing spring-mounted machines. An illustrative problem is given for this case, showing the effects of working to several different criteria.
The Temperature History During the Constant-Rate Heating of a Solid Circular Cylinder
Authors: Newman Albert B. , Church Austin H.
Published: February 2021

The authors present a solution of the partial-differential equation for heat conduction in a solid circular cylinder for the condition where the heat is forced into the cylindrical surface at a constant rate. A mathematical analysis is made of the temperature-history curve at the heated face and at the axis of the cylinder and the results are reduced to tabular and graphical form for practical application.
Single Point Incremental Forming Springback Reduction Using Edge Stiffener
Authors: Grimm Tyler J. , Parvathy Gowtham V. , Mears Laine
Published: February 2021

Single point incremental forming (SPIF) is a dieless forming process which uses local deformations to form complex geometries. This is achieved through the use of a typically hemispherical tipped forming tool. Several variations of SPIF have been developed to improve the performance of this process. This includes the use of a partial die which is placed on the back-side of the material. The forming tool is then able to press the material into this partial die. Another method is to utilize a clamping fixture with a periphery that closely matches that of the desired geometry. While both of these methods improve the performance of SPIF, they also require dedicated fixturing. While these modifications still present an advantage over traditional stamping, it is desirable to avoid the use of any geometry-specific equipment.

Springback is a significant issue when performing traditional SPIF. Springback can occur in two different ways: local and global. Local springback results from the elastic deformations created outside the region located directly beneath the forming tool. This causes poor accuracy as a result. Compensation methods have been developed to overcome this type of springback but are faced with certain limitations. Global springback refers to the springback experienced once the material is removed from its clamping fixture. This springback is a result of all residual stresses produced during forming. This springback is much more difficult to reduce and often requires annealing the workpiece subsequent to forming.

A toolpath approach is explored herein as a method to reduce springback without the use of geometry-specific equipment. The toolpath developed begins at the edge of the clamping fixture, regardless of the geometry shape, and forms the flashing material prior to the desired geometry. By starting the toolpath along the edge of the fixture, elastic deformations are minimized. Additionally, the work hardening produced during this forming acts as a stiffener for the desired geometry, which behaves as a frame which matches the periphery of the desired geometry.

This method was experimentally tested for its accuracy improvements when forming a truncated pyramid from 5052 aluminum. The angle of this stiffener, the step size of the stiffener, and the size of the desired geometry were varied. The fixture dimensions were held constant. This method was found to reduce the overall springback of the part and increase the accuracy of the resulting geometry. Furthermore, it was found that a large step size can be used to form the stiffener section of the part. By using a large step size, the time it takes to form this sacrificial region is minimized.