bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-enterprising eSports: Meritocracy, precarity, and disposability of eSports players in China
Authors: Lin Zhongxuan , Zhao Yupei
Published: February 2020

The emerging realm of eSports has become an inescapable part of overall sports and game culture. However, this study investigates eSports beyond sports and games, regarding it as a meta-change in the context of neoliberal Chinese society. In particular, this study focuses on the practices of Chinese eSports players to explore research questions of why and how eSports practitioners, especially professional players in China, have transformed themselves into new, self-enterprising subjects. Based on data collected from our fieldwork and interviews, this study demonstrates that Chinese eSports players pursue meritocracy, suffer from precarity, and face disposability in the future. The study finally proposes questions for sports ontologies and the challenges that eSports have created for the games empire.
Semi-active vibration control of MRF core PMC cantilever sandwich beams: Experimental study
Authors: Allien J Vipin , Kumar Hemantha , Desai Vijay
Published: February 2020

The semi-active vibration control of sandwich beams made of chopped strand mat glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite (PMC) and magnetorheological fluid (MRF) core were experimentally investigated in this study. Two-, four- and six-layered glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composites were prepared using the hand-layup technique. The magnetorheological fluid was prepared in-house with 30% volume of carbonyl iron powder and 70% volume of silicone oil. Nine cantilever sandwich beams of varying thicknesses of the top and bottom layers glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite beams and middle magnetorheological fluid core were prepared. The magnetorheological fluid core was activated with a non-homogeneous magnetic field using permanent magnets. The first three modes, natural frequencies and damping ratios of the glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite-magnetorheological fluid core sandwich beams were determined through free vibration analysis using DEWESoft modal analysis software. The amplitude frequency response of the glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite-magnetorheological fluid core sandwich beams through forced vibration analysis was determined using LabVIEW. The effect of various parameters such as magnetic flux density, thickness of glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite layers and magnetorheological fluid core layer on the natural frequencies, damping ratio and vibration amplitude suppressions of the glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite-magnetorheological fluid core sandwich beams was investigated. Based on the results obtained, 2 mm thickness top and bottom layers glass fiber reinforced polyester resin polymer matrix composite and 5 mm thickness magnetorheological fluid core sample have achieved a high shift in increased natural frequency, damping ratio and vibration amplitude suppression under the influence of magnetic flux density.
The legal structure of ventures and exit routes: A study of single-founder start-ups in the United States
Authors: Lee Byungku , Cho Yeri
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this article is to focus on the role of the legal structure of ventures for the event of the entrepreneurial exit. Specifically, this study is to reveal the different effects of incorporated and non-incorporated legal structures of ventures on diverse exit routes. Using the Kauffman Firm Survey, this study investigated the relationship between the legal structure of ventures and their exit routes with a sample of 901 single-founder start-ups that were founded in 2004 and exited during 2005 to 2011 period. The finding of this study confirmed that ventures with an incorporated legal structure were less likely to exit by sale than ventures with a non-incorporated legal structure. While little research has considered the legal structure of ventures as a predictor of different exit routes, this study empirically suggests the importance of considering the forms of the legal status of ventures in studying entrepreneurial exit routes.
Low SOX12 Expression Is Correlated With Poor Prognosis in Patients With Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yang Kan-kan , Xu Hui-mian , Huang Jin-yu , Guo Yu-xuan , Wang Zhen-ning
Published: February 2020

Background:

SRY-related HMG box-12, which is associated with the prognosis of cancer, has been frequently described. However, both SRY-related HMG box-12 expression and its relationship with clinicopathological variables and patient survival have not been defined in gastric cancer. The aim of our study was to examine the prognostic value of SRY-related HMG box-12 expression in patients with gastric cancer.

Methods:

In this study, we determined SRY-related HMG box-12 expression in 79 primary gastric cancer tissues and 79 matched adjacent nontumor tissues by immunohistochemistry and then calculated the survival rate using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to analyze predictors of gastric cancer. Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to investigate the difference in SRY-related HMG box-12 expression between normal gastric epithelial cells and gastric cancer cells at the protein level and RNA level, respectively.

Results:

SRY-related HMG box-12 was downregulated in gastric cancer tissues. Low SRY-related HMG box-12 expression was significantly associated not only with lymph node metastasis ( P = .027) and TNM stage ( P = .021) but also with disease-specific survival in patients with gastric cancer. Multivariate analysis demonstrated TNM stage was an independent factor predicting poor survival ( P = .034).

Conclusions:

Low SRY-related HMG box-12 expression is associated with poor clinical outcomes in gastric cancer.
Impact of Educational Intervention on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Laboratory Technicians regarding Universal Work Precautions at a Tertiary Health Care Center in Central India
Authors: Mehta Abhishek , Diwakar Manish Kr.
Published: February 2020

Introduction:

Laboratory technicians are routinely exposed to occupational health hazards that can be a serious threat to their health. To safeguard themselves against laboratory-acquired infections, they must be aware of universal work precautions. A targeted educational intervention to increase awareness about universal precautions was designed to result in behavioral changes in attitudes and practices to help reduce the incidence of laboratory-acquired infections. This study was planned to assess the preexisting levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of laboratory technicians regarding universal work precautions at a tertiary care hospital in central India and to evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions on the same.

Method:

The 40 lab technicians participating in the study were subjected to educational interventions in the form of training on universal precautions. Pretest and posttest evaluations using questionnaires were conducted to evaluate the learning gain. Pretest and posttest responses to each question were compared using the Pearson chi-square test. The subjects’ mean pretest and posttest scores were compared using paired t tests, and the significance level was set at .05.

Results:

There was remarkably significant improvement in knowledge, attitudes, and practices of laboratory technicians regarding universal work precautions after the educational intervention/training sessions.

Conclusion:

On the basis of the findings, it was suggested that such training sessions should be conducted regularly for laboratory technicians to help in better retention of knowledge and to instill a positive attitude toward universal precautions.
“You Never Know When You Will See Him Again”: Understanding the Intersectional Dimensions of Immigration, Indigeneity, and Language for Unaccompanied Indigenous Minors
Authors: López Josué , Fernández Erica
Published: February 2020

This case explores the complex ways unaccompanied Latinx Indigenous minors experience the intersection of immigration policies and U.S. school policies and practices and the implications this has for school leaders. As such, we present three critical incidents that center three students’ experience with and through U.S. schooling—from enrollment, to navigating schooling linguistic support, and then finally the ways in which disciplinary policies heighten the consequences of immigration reform. Through the critical incidents, readers will meet Santiago, Manuel, and Cristian Indigenous unaccompanied minors and examine the ways in which school leaders and schooling practices shape and impact the schooling experiences of undocumented, unaccompanied, Latinx Indigenous students.
Neuromuscular Mimics of Entrapment Neuropathies of Upper Extremities
Authors: Gilchrist James M. , Dandapat Sudeepta
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar neuropathy are such common maladies affecting the upper extremties that they often become the default diagnosis when patients complain of numbness, pain, or weakness of the hands. While often correct, there are a number of other conditions that can also cause sensory or motor loss of the hands, which should be considered when appropriate, as they can mimic upper extremity entrapment syndromes. Methods: In this review, we will discuss such mimics, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, multifocal motor neuropathy, hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies, mononeuropathy multiplex, Lewis-Sumner syndrome, brachial plexitis (Parsonage-Turner syndrome), myotonic dystrophy, inclusion body myopathy, and distal myopathy of Welander. We will discuss the clinical presentation, as well as diagnostic testing, treatment (if available), and prognosis. Conclusion: The objective is to provide a differential diagnosis for those patients who do not fit well clinically or respond to usual therapy for entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremities.
Electrical, structural, and photocatalytic properties of copper oxide nanowire
Authors: Jafari Azadeh , Terohid SAA , Kokabi Alireza , Moradiani Amir
Published: February 2020

Using a direct oxidation method in a horizontal quartz tube, copper oxide nanowires are grown on a Cu substrate. In order to investigate the growth temperature effects on the structural, morphological, electrical, and photocatalytic properties of the copper oxide nanowires, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, a KEITHLEY 2361 system, and a homemade photoreactor are used. The X-ray diffraction results show that both CuO and Cu2O phases are formed, and while increasing the growth temperature, the crystallinity is improved and the intensity of most of the diffraction peaks increases. The scanning electron microscopy images at different growth temperatures show that the number, density, and length of the copper oxide nanowires on pre-formed micro-scaled grains increase, when the growth temperature increases to 700°C and sharper nanowires with average diameters of 1–3 µm grow on the surface. Also I–V curves show that by raising the growth temperature, the conductivity of the samples increases. In addition, the photocatalytic activities are studied by photocatalytic degradation of Congo red dye, and based on these results, the sample grown at 700°C with the highest number and density of the nanowires showed the best photocatalytic performance and electrical conductivity. The results can be used to guide better understanding of the growth behavior of copper oxide nanowires and can be useful for the development of novel photocatalytic nanodevices.
Critical care scientists: Role, training and future directions
Authors: Fowler Natalie , Ali Raashid , Bannard-Smith Jonathan , Jennings Claire , Playfor Stephen , Pruski Michal
Published: February 2020

Critical care scientists are a little known but increasingly prominent group of professionals, included in both the government-run Modernising Scientific Careers initiative and 2019 Guidelines for the Provision of Intensive Care Services. This article outlines the role of critical care scientists, their training programme and potential future directions for the role. A wider appreciation and acknowledgement of the critical care scientist’s role within the multi-disciplinary team will allow critical care units to fully understand the potential benefits that may be brought to patient care and service delivery.
Regional Development of China’s Inclusive Finance Through Financial Technology
Authors: Hasan Md. Morshadul , Yajuan Lu , Mahmud Appel
Published: February 2020

Financial technology, commonly used the term as FinTech, is a key emerging driver of inclusive finance. This is also one of the emerging issues of finance as well as financial research. This research is done with the purpose of showing the present status of China’s FinTech in inclusive finance development. In addition, the study raises regional disparity and critical issues related to the inclusive development. A secondary data analysis methods are systematically carried out to demonstrate the present situation of internet finance in the development of inclusive finance in China, as well as the developing status of different provinces through internet finance. The ultimate finding of this research is that, despite significant development in China’s financial system, there is still a development inequality between the most and least developed regions. This study also identifies some important issues that should be taken care of by the policy makers. This research is done from authentic data also sources with appropriate explanations, which help the readers, academicians, researchers, and others to get comprehensive understanding of China’s FinTech and its influence on inclusive development.
Severe thoracolumbar congenital kyphosis treated with single posterior approach and gradual “in situ” correction
Authors: Audat Ziad A , Radaideh Ahmad M , Odat Mohannad A , Bashaireh Khaldoon M , Mohaidat Ziyad M , Assmairan Mohammed A , Alshbool Omar K , Audat Mohammad Z
Published: February 2020

Background:

Congenital kyphosis results from the failed formation of the vertebrae during the embryonic period and may be associated with cardiac, urogenital, or spinal cord anomalies. Surgical treatment is the best choice through anterior, posterior, or both approaches.

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the effect of posterior gradual correction using the “in situ” bender to correct severe thoracolumbar congenital kyphosis with or without osteotomy or excision of the vertebra.

Methods:

Twenty-five patients with an age range of 2–23 (mean ± SD = 12.58 ± 6.03) years with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis were treated surgically at our institution between 2004 and 2013. Pedicle screwing, osteotomy, and gradual “in situ” bending through the single posterior approach were the choices of treatment. Cobb’s angle, patient’s height, and SRS-22r were used to evaluate the patients preoperatively and postoperatively. Follow-up periods were 35–136 months.

Result:

Cobb’s angle pre-surgery range was 35–180 (81.48 ± 39.1) degrees improved post-surgery to 0–45 (21.72 ± 13.47) degrees ( p-value <0.0001). The range of patients’ standing height pre-surgery was 79–170 (142.42 ± 24.85) centimeters increased after surgery to 81–175 (147.76 ± 26.33) centimeters ( p-value <0.0001). SRS-22r pre-surgery range was between 2.12 and 3.904 (3.2 ± 0.77) and improved post-surgery to 4.16 and 4.96 (4.59 ± 0.29) ( p-value = 0.046).

Conclusion:

Gradual correction with the “in situ” bender with or without osteotomy through the single posterior approach can give satisfying clinical (patients’ standing height and SRS-22r scores) and radiological (Cobb’s angle) results to treat severe congenital thoracolumbar kyphosis.
Correlates of Organisational Commitment Among University Teachers in India: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Bashir Barooj , Gani Abdul
Published: February 2020

For the success of educational institutions (herein referred as an organisation), teachers’ commitment has, in particular, been recognised as an effectual route. As the educational system is the most influential spot that leads to the progress of society, it requires committed teachers who are not mere tools, but their strategic partners. This research study highlights the state of commitment of university teachers under various dimensions in India and explore whether there is any significant difference between selected demographics and the perception of teachers over their organisational commitment issues. The data were collected from full-time teachers working in selected universities of India. This study reveals that the majority of teachers possess continuance commitment, as they weigh the costs and risks associated with leaving the university and when given better alternatives, they may leave their institutions. Among the demographic variables, it was only the level of education that was found to be significantly affecting the commitment of university teachers. This study reveals that the teachers and the universities are engaged in give and take relationship. When teachers perceive high organisational engagement, they respond back with a greater commitment, perceiving them as an integral part of the organisation. They are more motivated and dedicated towards meeting and achieving organisational goals. Moreover, universities depend on committed teachers to create and sustain a competitive advantage and achieve superior performance.
Pediatric Abdominal Tuberculosis in Singapore: A 10-Year Retrospective Series
Authors: Wong Sarah Ailyne , Lee Meijuan Dawn , Loh Sin Wee , Thoon Koh Cheng , Tan Natalie Woon Hui , Chong Chia Yin
Published: February 2020

Background. Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Pediatric patients are more likely to develop severe disease. Abdominal TB is a rare manifestation of pediatric TB and can present with chronic and nonspecific abdominal symptoms. This study examines the clinical profile of pediatric patients with abdominal TB and treatment outcomes. Method. A retrospective study of patients admitted to a tertiary pediatric hospital in Singapore over 10 years. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were examined. Results. There were 3 male and 3 female patients with mean age of 11.3 years. Household contacts were traced in 3 cases. The most common presenting symptoms were fever, weight loss, and abdominal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Inflammatory markers were raised with mean C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation (ESR) rate at 70.9 mg/L and 90 mm/h respectively. Abdominal imaging showed abnormalities such as splenic foci and thickened bowel wall with significant intraabdominal lymphadenopathy. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated from stool, rectal swabs and intra-adominal specimens. Two patients underwent excisional biopsy of lymph node to obtain diagnosis. Two patients required emergency laparotomy and 1 patient received esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy. Four out of the 6 patients had pulmonary involvement. Conclusion. Abdominal TB should be a differential diagnosis in children with chronic abdominal symptoms for at least 8 weeks with anemia, raised ESR and CRP. The gold standard for diagnosis still remains as positive microbiological culture. However, abdominal imaging studies are also vital in obtaining further supportive evidence for chronic infection.
Can We Predict Usage of Dental Services? An Analysis from Germany 2000 to 2015
Authors: Schwendicke F. , Krois J. , Jordan R.
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

We aimed to predict the usage of dental services in Germany from 2000 to 2015 based on epidemiologic and demographic data, and to compare these predictions against claims within the statutory health insurance.

Methods:

Indicators for operative (number of coronally decayed or filled teeth, root surface caries lesions, and fillings), prosthetic (number of missing teeth), and periodontal treatment needs (number of teeth with probing pocket depths (PPDs) ≥ 4 mm) from nationally representative German Oral Health Studies (1997, 2005, 2014) were cross-sectionally interpolated across age and time, and combined with year- and age-specific population estimates. These, as well as the number of children eligible for individual preventive services (aged 6 to 17 y), were adjusted for age- and time-specific insurance status and services’ utilization to yield predicted usage of operative, prosthetic, periodontal, and preventive services. Cumulative annual usage in these 4 services groups were compared against aggregations of a total of 24 claims positions from the statutory German health insurance.

Results:

Morbidity, utilization, and demography were highly dynamic across age groups and over time. Despite improvements of individual oral health, predicted usage of dental services did not decrease over time, but increased mainly due to usage shifts from younger (shrinking) to older (growing) age groups. Predicted usage of operative services increased between 2000 and 2015 (from 52 million to 56 million, +7.8%); predictions largely agreed with claimed services (root mean square error [RMSE] 1.9 million services, error range −4.6/+3.8%). Prosthetic services increased (from 2.4 million to 2.6 million, +11.9%), with near perfect agreement to claimed data [RMSE 0.1 million services, error range −8.3/+3.9%]). Periodontal services also increased (from 21 million to 27 million, +25.9%; RMSE 5.2 million services, error range +21.9/+36.5%), as did preventive services (from 22 million to 27 million, +20.4%; RMSE 3 million, error range −13.7/−4.7%).

Conclusion:

Predicting dental services seems viable when accounting for the joint dynamics of morbidity, utilization, and demographics.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Based on epidemiologic and demographic data, predicting usage of certain dental services is viable when accounting for the dynamics of morbidity, utilization, and demographics.
Influence of ozonized water on pain, oedema, and trismus during impacted third molar surgery: a randomized, triple blind clinical trial
Authors: Glória José Cristiano Ramos , Douglas-de-Oliveira Dhelfeson Willya , e Silva Larissa Doalla Almeida , Falci Saulo Gabriel Moreira , dos Santos Cássio Roberto Rocha
Published: February 2020

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ozonized water on pain, oedema and trismus after impacted third molar mandibular surgeries when compared to double distilled water. A randomized triple blind trial was conducted.

Methods

Patients with third molars class II-B of Pell-Gregory were included, and surgical extraction was performed. Irrigation was done with ozonized (group 1) or double distilled water (group 2). The type of irrigation and the side to be operated were randomized. Neither the patients nor the operator or evaluator were aware of the irrigation solution. Pain, oedema and trismus were evaluated at baseline, 24-h, 48-h, 72-h and 7-days after treatment. The data were evaluated by Friedman, Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney tests, and size effect.

Results

It was included 8 men and 12 women, with a mean age of 20.9y.o. The initial pain mean was 7.94 (±12.81) (group 1) and 5.50 (±9.12) (group 2) (p > 0,05). There was a statistically significant reduction of pain, oedema and trismus in intragroup analysis (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) when comparing the oedema and trismus between groups. The size effect ranged from small (0.23) to large (1.29).

Conclusions

It was concluded that ozonized water was compatible as irrigation method, not inferior to double distilled water, and had satisfactory effects on management of pain, oedema and trismus after surgical removal of the third molar.

Trial registration

This clinical trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.govNCT03501225on April 18, 2018.
Opuntia cladode powders inhibit adipogenesis in 3 T3-F442A adipocytes and a high-fat-diet rat model by modifying metabolic parameters and favouring faecal fat excretion
Authors: Héliès-Toussaint Cécile , Fouché Edwin , Naud Nathalie , Blas-Y-Estrada Florence , del Socorro Santos-Diaz Maria , Nègre-Salvayre Anne , Barba de la Rosa Ana Paulina , Guéraud Françoise
Published: February 2020

Background

Obesity is a major public health concern worldwide. A sedentary life and a nutritional transition to processed foods and high-calorie diets are contributing factors to obesity. The demand for nutraceutical foods, such as herbal weight-loss products, which offer the potential to counteract obesity, has consequently increased. We hypothesised that Opuntia cladodes consumption could assist weight management in an obesity prevention context.

Methods

This study was designed to explore the anti-adipogenic effects of lyophilised Opuntia cladode powders (OCP) in an in vitro cellular model for adipocyte differentiation and an in vivo high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced obesity rat model. Two OCP were tested, one from wild species O. streptacantha and the second from the most known species O. ficus-indica.

Results

Pre-adipocytes 3 T3-F442A were treated by OCP during the differentiation process by insulin. OCP treatment impaired the differentiation in adipocytes, as supported by the decreased triglyceride content and a low glucose uptake, which remained comparable to that observed in undifferentiated controls, suggesting that an anti-adipogenic effect was exerted by OCP. Sprague–Dawley rats were fed with a normal or HFD, supplemented or not with OCP for 8 weeks. OCP treatment slightly reduced body weight gain, liver and abdominal fat weights, improved some obesity-related metabolic parameters and increased triglyceride excretion in the faeces. Taken together, these results showed that OCP might contribute to reduce adipogenesis and fat storage in a HFD context, notably by promoting the faecal excretion of fats.

Conclusions

Opuntia cladodes may be used as a dietary supplement or potential therapeutic agent in diet-based therapies for weight management to prevent obesity.

Graphical abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes of European wild boar from distinct agricultural and forest habitats in Poland
Authors: Nosal Paweł , Kowal Jerzy , Wyrobisz-Papiewska Anna , Wajdzik Marek
Published: February 2020

The study aimed to compare the gastrointestinal helminthofauna of free-ranging wild boars from arable lands and forests, which are the natural habitats for wild boar in Poland and further to investigate if wild boars living in agricultural environments could acquire helminths commonly detected in domestic pigs. In 2011–2014, a total of 57 wild boars were examined post-mortem for the presence of gastrointestinal nematodes. Altogether, all but two of the animals were infected, and seven nematode species were found. The mean infection burden was 68.9 parasites, ranging from 1 to 381 worms. In forest areas, Ascarops strongylina, Physocephalus sexalatus, and Globocephalus urosubulatus were common, whereas on arable lands, the animals were more frequently infected (P < 0.05) by Ascaris suum and Trichuris suis, which are parasites that commonly occur in domestic pigs. Oesophagostomum dentatum was observed only in wild boars on arable lands, and Bourgelatia diducta, which is alien to European suids, appeared irrespective of habitat type. These results show significant differences in parasite spectra among wild boars living in forests or arable lands in Poland and indicates the risks of parasite transfer from domestic pigs to free-ranging wild boars. Furthermore, in farmed game, organic farming, or in the case of agritourism farms, one should be aware of the risk of related animals acquiring new and alien parasite infections by being kept outdoors.
Considerations on the taxonomy and morphology of Microcotyle spp.: redescription of M. erythrini van Beneden & Hesse, 1863 (sensu stricto) (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) and the description of a new species from Dentex dentex (L.) (Teleostei: Sparidae)
Authors: Víllora-Montero María , Pérez-del-Olmo Ana , Georgieva Simona , Raga Juan Antonio , Montero Francisco Esteban
Published: February 2020

Background

Microcotyle erythrinivan Beneden & Hesse, 1863 (Platyhelminthes: Monogenea) and other closely related species of the genus are often considered as cryptic. Records in hosts other than the type-host with no species confirmation by molecular analyses have contributed to this situation.

Methods

Gill parasites of five sparid fishes,Boops boops(L.),Pagellus erythrinus(L.),P. acarne(Risso), Dentex dentex(L.) andPagrus pagrus(L.), from the Western Mediterranean off Spain were collected. Specimens ofMicrocotylespp. were characterised both molecularly and morphologically. Partial fragments (domains D1-D3) of the28SrRNA gene and the cytochromecoxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene were amplified and used for molecular identification and phylogenetic reconstruction. Principal components analysis was used to look for patterns of morphological separation.

Results

Molecular analyses confirmed the identity of three species:M. erythriniexP. erythrinusandPa. pagrus;M. isyebiBouguerche, Gey, Justine & Tazerouti, 2019 exB. boops; and a species new to science described herein,M. whittingtonin. sp. exD. dentex.The specific morphological traits and confirmed hosts (P. erythrinusandPa. pagrus) are delimited here in order to avoid misidentifications ofM. erythrini(sensu stricto).Microcotyle erythrini(s.s.) is mostly differentiated by the shape of its haptor, which is also longer than in the other congeners. New morphological and molecular data are provided forM. isyebifrom the Spanish Mediterranean enlarging the data on its geographical range.Microcotyle whittingtonin. sp. is described fromD. dentexand distinguished from the remaining currently recognised species of the genus by the number and robustness of the clamps.

Conclusions

New diagnostic morphological traits useful to differentiateMicrocotylespp. are suggested: (i) haptor dimensions including lobes; (ii) the thickness of the clamps; (iii) the size and shape of spines of the genital atrium; (iv) the extension of the posterior extremities of vitelline fields; and (v) the shape of egg filaments. The use of new morphological approaches may allow considering these species ofMicrocotyleas being pseudocryptic. The use of representative undamaged specimens that have been genetically confirmed as conspecific is considered crucial to avoid abnormally wide morphological ranges that prevent species differentiation.
Treating medically unexplained symptoms via improving access to psychological therapy (IAPT): major limitations identified
Authors: Geraghty Keith , Scott Michael J.
Published: February 2020

Background

Improving Access to Psychological Therapies is a UK Government funded initiative to widen access to psychological treatment for a range of common mental health complaints, such as depression and anxiety. More recently, the service has begun to treat patients with medically unexplained symptoms. This paper reports on a review of treatment protocols and early treatment data for medically unexplained symptoms, specifically the illness myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.

Main text

A series of seven core problems and failings are identified, including an unproven treatment rationale, a weak and contested evidence-base, biases in treatment promotion, exaggeration of recovery claims, under-reporting of drop-out rates, and a significant risk of misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.

Conclusions

There is a pressing need for independent oversight of this service, specifically evaluation of service performance and methods used to collect and report treatment outcomes. This service offers uniform psycho-behavioural therapy that may not meet the needs of many patients with medically unexplained health complaints. Psychotherapy should not become a default when patients’ physical symptoms remain unexplained, and patients should be fully informed of the rationale behind psychotherapy, before agreeing to take part. Patients who reject psychotherapy or do not meet selection criteria should be offered appropriate medical and psychological support.
H3F3A mutant allele specific imbalance in an aggressive subtype of diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27M-mutant
Authors: Maeda Sachi , Ohka Fumiharu , Okuno Yusuke , Aoki Kosuke , Motomura Kazuya , Takeuchi Kazuhito , Kusakari Hironao , Yanagisawa Nobuyuki , Sato Shinya , Yamaguchi Junya , Tanahashi Kuniaki , Hirano Masaki , Kato Akira , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Kitano Yotaro , Yamazaki Shintaro , Yamashita Shinji , Takeshima Hideo , Shinjo Keiko , Kondo Yutaka , Wakabayashi Toshihiko , Natsume Atsushi
Published: February 2020

Diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27M-mutant is a lethal brain tumor located in the thalamus, brain stem, or spinal cord. H3 K27M encoded by the mutation of a histone H3 gene such as H3F3A plays a pivotal role in the tumorigenesis of this type of glioma. Although several studies have revealed comprehensive genetic and epigenetic profiling, the prognostic factors of these tumors have not been identified to date. In various cancers, oncogenic driver genes have been found to exhibit characteristic copy number alterations termed mutant allele specific imbalance (MASI). Here, we showed that several diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27M-mutant exhibited high variant allele frequency (VAF) of the mutated H3F3A gene using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assays. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) revealed that these cases had various copy number alterations that affected the mutant and/or wild-type alleles of the H3F3A gene. We also found that these MASI cases showed a significantly higher Ki-67 index and poorer survival compared with those in the lower VAF cases (P < 0.05). Our results indicated that the MASI of the H3F3A K27M mutation was associated with the aggressive phenotype of the diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27M-mutant via upregulation of the H3 K27M mutant protein, resulting in downregulation of H3K27me3 modification.
Thermophysical properties of surficial rocks: a tool to characterize geothermal resources of remote northern regions
Authors: Miranda M. M. , Giordano N. , Raymond J. , Pereira A. J. S. C. , Dezayes C.
Published: February 2020

The energetic framework of Canadian remote communities relies on fossil fuels. This has adverse environmental and energy security issues. In order to offset diesel consumption, the search for local, sustainable and carbon-free energy sources is of utmost importance. Unfortunately, in such remote regions, subsurface data to evaluate the geothermal potential is often nonexistent. This raises a key question: how to characterize geothermal resources associated to petrothermal systems based on surface data? Answering this question is the purpose of this work highlighting how outcrops can be used as deep subsurface analogues. The variability induced by laboratory methods to characterize thermophysical properties is further evaluated in the estimation of the present-day temperature at depth. The community of Kuujjuaq, Canada, is used as an example where guidelines are defined to evaluate the steady-state geotherm. Rock samples were collected and analyzed with a guarded heat flow meter and an optical scanner to determine thermal conductivity. Radiogenic elements concentration was evaluated with gamma-ray and mass spectrometry. 2D temperature models were built taking into account the regional geology and the results obtained from the different laboratory methods. A base-case temperature of 57–88 °C at 5 km is predicted below Kuujjuaq. This range is based on different methods used to evaluate both thermal conductivity and internal heat generation. The work conducted in Kuujjuaq shows that the combination of gamma-ray spectrometry and optical scanning gives lower base-case temperature predictions when compared to mass spectrometry combined with the guarded heat flow meter. Despite the nonexistence of deep temperature measurements in northern regions, the assessment of thermophysical properties from outcrops is shown to be a useful tool for a preliminary assessment of geothermal resources in remote areas facing critical energy issues.
Initial implementation of active learning strategies in large, lecture STEM courses: lessons learned from a multi-institutional, interdisciplinary STEM faculty development program
Authors: Borda Emily , Schumacher Emily , Hanley Daniel , Geary Edward , Warren Shannon , Ipsen Cassidy , Stredicke Lauren
Published: February 2020

Background

A faculty development program was implemented over four years at a 4-year regional comprehensive university and two partnering community colleges. This project was focused on improving student learning in introductory Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) courses at each institution, by helping faculty adopt inclusive, student-centered pedagogies. Survey data were combined with data from classroom videos, faculty interviews, and student questionnaires collected during the first two years of the project to give insight into how faculty initially implemented the theory and strategies they learned and how the students perceived instruction from participating faculty.

Results

These data sources were combined to generate four overall themes to characterize our project and guide future projects. These are: (1) implementation of student-centered learning took a variety of forms; (2) quality implementation of student-centered teaching practices lagged behind understanding of the theory behind those practices; (3) the most robust perceived barriers to implementation of student-centered teaching stayed constant, while more moderate barriers were ranked differently from year 1 to year 2; and (4) faculty perceptions of student-centered learning practices were not always the same as students’ perceptions. These themes build from the extant faculty development literature in that they are drawn from the unique context of a multidisciplinary, multi-institutional project, and that they represent an “on the ground” perspective from case studies combined with “big picture” findings from surveys.

Conclusions

This paper describes the faculty development project, as well as our collection and interpretation of data from surveys and case studies, to ultimately develop the four themes. Recommendations deriving from these themes are also described. These include modeling a variety of pedagogies; adopting realistic expectations for faculty change; institutionalizing faculty development so it can take place over multiple years; being transparent with faculty about known barriers and aligning supports with those barriers; and helping faculty develop strategies for transparency with students about student-centered pedagogies.
Meningioma in mature cystic teratoma of the ovary: clinical and computed tomography findings
Authors: Liu Yi-yang , Liang Pan , Ji Jiang , Chen Kui-sheng , Li Li-ming , Gao Jian-bo , Yong Liu-liang
Published: February 2020

Background

Mature cystic teratoma (MCT) with meningioma of the ovary is a very rare benign tumor. There is only 3 reports of this disease until June 2019. The aim of the present study was to describe a ovarian mature cystic teratoma containing meningioma and nests of neuroblasts in a 15-year-old girl.

Methods

The method used in the present study consists of description of the clinical history, image lab features, and pathological result.

Results

The patient complained of a 2-month history of irregular vaginal bleeding. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed a large oval cystic-solid mass with septations and fat density shadow, in abdomen pelvic cavity. The cystic part was the main component in the mass. The tumoral solid parts and its internal division could be seen intensified from slight to moderate on contrast-enhanced CT images compared with those on precontrast images, and the solid parts showed heterogeneous enhancement. Neighbouring intestinal tract and the uterus displaced by compression. The pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.

Conclusions

The clinical feature of ovarian mature cystic teratoma with meningioma includes a lack of specificity. Only meticulous recording of the gross features, histopathological examination including immunohistochemistry and supportive clinical and radiological findings to arrive at a correct diagnosis in case of unconventional tumours. If necessary, preoperative puncture can be performed.
Foraging behavior of the Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) wintering at Shengjin Lake: diet shifts and habitat use
Authors: Fan Yanguang , Zhou Lizhi , Cheng Lei , Song Yunwei , Xu Wenbin
Published: February 2020

Background

The habitat use and foraging behaviors of waterbirds are closely related to the distribution and abundance of their food resources. Reductions in food supply can cause waterbirds to shift their habitats and adjust their foraging behaviors to meet their nutritional requirements and increase fitness. Seasonal withdraw of the water levels in the river-connected lakes in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain provides abundant food resources for the wintering Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons). Sedge (Carex) meadows are critical foraging habitats for herbivorous waterbirds in the hydro-fluctuation belt, which changes with hydrological conditions and climate. This study aimed to examine the behavioral responses of the Greater White-fronted Goose to temporal- spatial changes of food availability in the Sedge meadows.

Methods

Fields surveys were carried out at Shengjin Lake from November 2017 to April 2018. According to the phenology of Shengjin Lake, we divided the wintering season into three periods. The food density, minimum temperature, food items, grass height, and number of foraging geese were surveyed, and samples of the foraging behavior were collected. We analyzed the relationship of the foraging behavior and habitat use relative to the food resources, using correlation and linear regression analyses.

Results

Along with the temporal-spatial variation and exploitation of food resources, the food abundance and items varied widely among the foraging sites. Over the whole wintering period, the foraging habitat with the highest utilization rate was the meadows, followed by the paddy fields, and then mudflats. Furthermore, the utilization of the meadows showed a bimodal distribution trend, while the paddy fields showed a unimodal trend, and a decreasing trend was seen in the mudflats over the whole wintering period. The results of the generalized linear model showed that the foraging rate was related to the food density and grass height, with a linearly increasing trend during the winter.

Conclusions

With the change of food resources in the three habitats, the habitats used by the Greater White-fronted Geese shifted from meadows in the hydro-fluctuation belt to the paddy fields, and then back to the meadows. The time budget for foraging activities increased correspondingly, and there was an increase in the foraging rate to compensate for food shortages.
Categorization of lower body shapes of abdominal obese men using a script-based 3D body measurement software
Authors: Lee Kyu Sun , Song Hwa Kyung , Kim Sungmin
Published: February 2020

The objectives of this study are to identify the principal components that represent distinctive shapes from the silhouette and profile views of the lower body shapes of abdominal obese Korean men and to categorize their body types. Using 3D scans of 625 men aged 35–64 in the 6th SizeKorea dataset, 173 scans (27.7%) of men in ‘abdominal obese’ category (BMI value of 25, waist girth to height ratio of 0.53, and waist girth to hip girth ratio of 0.9 or higher) were utilized. We developed a script to measure 38 items such as front/back crotch length and front/back depths and angles using the SNU-BM program, which is a script-based automated 3D body scan measurement software. The measurements used for principal component (PC) analysis were 31 drops, 2 heights, 2 lengths and 4 angles. Ten PCs representing distinctive silhouettes and profiles of lower body shapes were extracted. The PCs were interpreted as follows: abdomen prominence, thigh to knee profile, upper buttocks prominence, waist to hip drop, thigh to knee silhouette, lower body tilt angle, waist to crotch length, vertical height, abdomen to crotch height, and lower buttocks slope. The three body shape groups were categorized using a K means cluster analysis with ten PC scores. Group 1 had a flat abdomen but prominent buttocks. Group 2 had a developed abdomen and buttocks with vertical thighs. Group 3 had drooped buttocks with tilted thighs.
A new redescription of Richtersius coronifer, supported by transcriptome, provides resources for describing concealed species diversity within the monotypic genus Richtersius (Eutardigrada)
Authors: Stec Daniel , Krzywański Łukasz , Arakawa Kazuharu , Michalczyk Łukasz
Published: February 2020

Richtersius coronifer, the nominal species for the family Richtersiidae and a popular laboratory model, exemplifies a common problem in modern tardigrade taxonomy. Despite undeniable progress in the field, many old and incomplete descriptions of taxa hinder both species delimitation and the estimation of species diversity and distribution. Although for over a century this species has been recorded throughout the world, recent research indicates that records to date are likely to represent a species complex rather than a single cosmopolitan species. However, in order to recognise and name species diversity within the complex, an integrative redescription of the nominal species is first needed. Here, we describe an R. coronifer population collected from Spitsbergen, i.e., one of the two localities mentioned in the original description, with detailed morphological and morphometric data associated with standard DNA sequences of four standard genetic markers (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, ITS-2, and COI) and supported by transcriptome sequencing. We propose replacement of the neotype designated in 1981 by Maucci and Ramazzotti, as it is impossible to verify whether the existing neotype is conspecific with specimens studied by Richters in 1903 and 1904. Finally, using newly obtained cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences of populations from Spitsbergen, Italy, Poland, and Greece together with sequences deposited in GenBank (China, Greenland, Italy, Mongolia), we performed genetic species delimitation, which indicated seven distinct potential species within the genus Richtersius, in addition to the nominal taxon. This study marks a starting point for further research on the taxonomy of and species diversity within the genus. Moreover, this work has the potential to be the first tardigrade redescription to provide both genetic barcodes and a transcriptome of the species in question.