bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large placental area of degeneration in a twin pregnancy in a mare (Equus caballus)
Authors: Rapacz‐Leonard A. , Paździor‐Czapula K.
Published: December 2020

A primiparous mare foaled a live foal and a mummy. The mummy and its fetal membranes were necrotic and had been invaginated within the fetal membranes of the live foal. Near the mummy, the fetal membranes of the live foal had a clear demarcation between a ‘white’ and a ‘red’ region. The white region was touching the mummy, and some of its features were similar to those of a fetal–foot placental area of degeneration (PAD): it was ischaemic and degenerate (as indicated by hypoplasia, hyaline degeneration, multifocal squamous metaplasia, cell swelling and basement membrane sclerosis) with villi that were shorter than normal and limited in number. However, the PAD in this case was thinner than those in previous reports, and it was much larger, as it surrounded the entire mummy. The red region, which was touching the maternal endometrium, was hyperaemic, but in other respects, it was similar to the fetal membranes in the other uterine horn. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first extensive report on the histology of type C twinning (i.e. with a mummified foal) in which the death of one foal had not been induced.
Decadal shift in foraging strategy of a migratory southern ocean predator
Authors: van den Berg Gideon L. , Vermeulen Els , Valenzuela Luciano O. , Bérubé Martine , Ganswindt Andre , Gröcke Darren R. , Hall Grant , Hulva Pavel , Neveceralova Petra , Palsbøll Per J. , Carroll Emma L.
Published: December 2020

Rapid anthropogenic environmental change is expected to impact a host of ecological parameters in Southern Ocean ecosystems. Of critical concern are the consequences of these changes on the range of species that show fidelity to migratory destinations, as philopatry is hypothesized to help or hinder adaptation to climate change depending on the circumstances. Many baleen whales show philopatry to feeding grounds and are also capital breeders that meet migratory and reproductive costs through seasonal energy intake. Southern right whales (Eubalaena australis, SRWs) are capital breeders that have a strong relationship between reproductive output and foraging success. The population dynamics of South Africa's population of SRWs are characterized by two distinct periods: the 1990s, a period of high calving rates; and the late 2010s, a period associated with lowered calving rates. Here we use analyses of stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope values from SRW biopsy samples (n = 122) collected during these two distinct periods to investigate foraging ecology of the South African population of SRWs over a time period coincident with the demographic shift. We show that South African SRWs underwent a dramatic northward shift, and diversification, in foraging strategy from 1990s to 2010s. Bayesian mixing model results suggest that during the 1990s, South African SRWs foraged on prey isotopically similar to South Georgia/Islas Georgias del Sur krill. In contrast, in the 2010s, South African SRWs foraged on prey isotopically consistent with the waters of the Subtropical Convergence, Polar Front and Marion Island. We hypothesize that this shift represents a response to changes in preferred habitat or prey, for example, the decrease in abundance and southward range contraction of Antarctic krill. By linking reproductive decline to changing foraging strategies for the first time in SRWs, we show that altering foraging strategies may not be sufficient to adapt to a changing ocean.
Environment and physiology shape Arctic ungulate population dynamics
Authors: Desforges Jean‐Pierre , Marques Gonçalo M. , Beumer Larissa T. , Chimienti Marianna , Hansen Lars H. , Pedersen Stine Højlund , Schmidt Niels M. , van Beest Floris M.
Published: December 2020

Species conservation in a rapidly changing world requires an improved understanding of how individuals and populations respond to changes in their environment across temporal scales. Increased warming in the Arctic puts this region at particular risk for rapid environmental change, with potentially devastating impacts on resident populations. Here, we make use of a parameterized full life cycle, individual‐based energy budget model for wild muskoxen, coupling year‐round environmental data with detailed ontogenic metabolic physiology. We show how winter food accessibility, summer food availability, and density dependence drive seasonal dynamics of energy storage and thus life history and population dynamics. Winter forage accessibility defined by snow depth, more than summer forage availability, was the primary determinant of muskox population dynamics through impacts on calf recruitment and longer term carryover effects of maternal investment. Simulations of various seasonal snow depth and plant biomass and quality profiles revealed that timing of and improved/limited winter forage accessibility had marked influence on calf recruitment (±10–80%). Impacts on recruitment were the cumulative result of condition‐driven reproductive performance at multiple time points across the reproductive period (ovulation to calf weaning) as a trade‐off between survival and reproduction. Seasonal and generational condition effects of snow‐rich winters interacted with age structure and density to cause pronounced long‐term consequences on population growth and structure, with predicted population recovery times from even moderate disturbances of 10 years or more. Our results show how alteration in winter forage accessibility, mediated by snow depth, impacts the dynamics of northern herbivore populations. Further, we present here a mechanistic and state‐based model framework to assess future scenarios of environmental change, such as increased or decreased snowfall or plant biomass and quality to impact winter and summer forage availability across the Arctic.
Increasing and disparate use of neuroimaging for adults and children with non‐traumatic headaches in the US emergency departments: Opportunities for improvement
Authors: Trofimova Anna V. , Duszak Richard , Kadom Nadja , Sadigh Gelareh
Published: December 2020

Background

Optimization of neuroimaging practices for headache is considered a national priority; however, nationwide patterns and predictors of neuroimaging use for headache in the US emergency departments (EDs) are unknown.

Objective

To analyze temporal neuroimaging utilization trends for adults and children with non‐traumatic headache in the US EDs and identify factors predictive of neuroimaging use in this patient population.

Methods

Retrospective cross‐sectional study using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Emergency Department Sample database for administrative encounter‐level data analysis of a nationwide group of adult and pediatric patients with primary diagnosis of headache (ICD‐9CM codes 784.0x, 339.xx, 346.xx) visited the US EDs between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2014. Temporal trends and independent predictors of neuroimaging use (e.g., patient and hospital characteristics, primary payment sources) were determined.

Results

In 2006–2014, a weighted group of 18,146,302 patients with a primary diagnosis of non‐traumatic headache visited US EDs. Advanced neuroimaging utilization increased from 18.6% (n = 350,777) to 34.8% (n = 756,895) in the total group, from 18.8% (n = 314,646) to 36.5% (n = 698,080) in the adult subgroup (+94.1%), and from 16.9% (n = 36,131) to 22.0% (n = 58,815) (+30.2%) in the pediatric subgroup (+87.0%) between 2006 and 2014. The strongest predictors of higher neuroimaging utilization were hospital location in the Northeast (OR 3.17, 95% CI 2.67–3.76) or South (OR 2.42, 95% CI 2.03–2.88) regions. Lower utilization of imaging was associated with weekend ED visits (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.92–0.93), female gender (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.81–0.83), and Medicare, Medicaid, or self‐pay (vs. private insurance) encounters.

Conclusion

Neuroimaging utilization in patients with headache in US EDs nearly doubled in 2006–2014, and was used in 34.8% of all ED encounters in 2014. Utilization was higher and increased at faster rates for adults than children. In US EDs, imaging for headache is preferentially performed on commercially insured and male patients, at urban hospitals, in certain geographic regions, and on weekdays, raising concerns regarding disparate imaging use.
Stakeholder involvement in the development of trial material for a clinical trial
Authors: Rix Jacqueline , Branney Jonathan , Breen Alexander C. , Sewell Philip , Docherty Sharon
Published: December 2020

Background

Stakeholder involvement includes not just patients and public, but also those delivering treatment for example clinicians and students. Each stakeholder brings unique experiences to the process. The aim of this stakeholder exercise was to explore readability and understanding of the trial material for the future trial to be conducted by the authors: Biomechanical Effects of Manual Therapy—A Feasibility Study.

Design

Volunteers from identified stakeholder groups were provided with trial material which included the information sheet, consent form, questionnaires and home management booklet. They provided feedback on content (readability, understanding) and style (font, layout). An additional document was provided with genres of pictures to choose the most appropriate style to be used in the booklet.

Readability formulas were used to calculate reading age before and after feedback to objectively measure ease of reading.

Results

The public group provided a layperson's perspective to clarify the information sheet for patients, whereas practitioner and intern groups indicated where information could be clarified. The reading age of all documentation decreased following feedback; however, templated sections of the documentation did not. The majority (87%) of volunteers chose coloured classic cartoons for the booklet.

Conclusion

This process highlighted the importance of involving different stakeholder groups in the development of research materials as each group made a unique contribution. Readability and understanding of the trial material were improved, feeding back into the consent process contributing towards fully informed consent.

Patient or Public Contribution

Public helped develop materials for a future trial but not with manuscript preparation.
Identification of EWSR1–NFATC2 fusion in simple bone cysts
Authors: Hung Yin P , Fisch Adam S , Diaz‐Perez Julio A , Iafrate A John , Lennerz Jochen K , Nardi Valentina , Bredella Miriam A , Raskin Kevin A , Lozano‐Calderon Santiago A , Rosenberg Andrew E , Nielsen G Petur
Published: December 2020

Aims

Simple bone cysts are benign intramedullary tumours primarily involving the long bones in skeletally immature individuals. Several mechanisms have been proposed for their pathogenesis. Although the diagnosis is typically straightforward, the interpretation can be problematic, because of superimposed fracture causing them to resemble aneurysmal bone cysts and other tumours. EWSR1–NFATC2 or FUS–NFATC2 fusions, which are characteristic of a subset of aggressive round cell sarcomas, have been recently detected in simple bone cysts. The aim of this study was to examine the clinicopathological and molecular features in a series of simple bone cysts.

Methods and results

Using RNA‐based next‐generation sequencing and/or fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation, we investigated the presence of EWSR1 or FUS rearrangements in nine simple bone cysts. The patients were five females and four males, aged 3–23 years (median, 14 years); the tumours ranged from 19 mm to 160 mm (median, 46 mm) in size, and involved the femur (n = 3), humerus (n = 2), fibula (n = 2), tibia (n = 1), and iliac wing (n =1). We identified three cases with EWSR1–NFATC2 fusion (showing identical breakpoints to those in EWSR1–NFATC2 sarcomas) and one additional case with FUS rearrangement. Unlike in EWSR1–NFATC2 sarcomas, immunohistochemical expression of NKX3.1 and NKX2.2 was absent in two simple bone cysts tested.

Conclusions

More than 40% of simple bone cysts harbour genetic alterations confirming that they are neoplastic, investigation of EWSR1 and/or FUS rearrangement may help to distinguish simple bone cysts from mimics, and NFATC2 rearrangement is not pathognomonic of malignancy.
Influence of wheat flour substitution with potato pulp on dough rheology, microstructure and noodle quality
Authors: Pu Huayin , Yue Miao , Guo Simin , Li Yanjun , Yang Yifei , Kuang Jiwei , Huang Junrong
Published: December 2020

The effects of potato pulp (0–40%) on dough rheology and microstructures, as well as noodle quality, were investigated in this study. Substitution of wheat flour with potato pulp led to a decrease in β‐sheet content, an increase in α‐helix and unordered content for protein in dough, as well as a drop of the storage and loss modulus, which was mainly caused by the weakening of dough gluten strength. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the gluten–starch network could no longer to be observed for the formulated dough containing 30–40% potato pulp. Structural damage of dough induced the increases in optimal cooking time, cooking loss and adhesiveness, and a decrease in cohesiveness of cooked noodles. However, the samples with 20% potato pulp addition showed higher values in water absorption, hardness, springiness and chewiness, indicating that noodles with potato pulp content below 20% were acceptable.
A comparative study on the physio‐chemical properties, antioxidant and immuno‐stimulating activities of two national geographical indication products of Tremella fuciformis in China
Authors: Huang Shishi , Zou Yuan , Ye Zhiwei , Chen Jieming , Luo Jinhai , Lan Yaqi , Guo Liqiong , Lin Junfang , Zheng Qianwang
Published: December 2020

Tremella fuciformis from Gutian in Fujian Province (TF‐GT) and Tongjiang in Sichuan Province (TF‐TJ) in China are two geographical indication (GI) products that are mainly differentiated and characterised by their cultivation methods. To better understand the qualities of the GI products of T. fuciformis, a comparative study was conducted on the physio‐chemical properties, antioxidant and immuno‐stimulating activities of TF‐GT and TF‐TJ. The results showed that TF‐GT has a higher content of ash, polysaccharides and protein, but lower essential amino acid/total amino acid compared with TF‐TJ. The rehydration ratio and the desirable viscous characteristics varied in a species‐dependent manner. The water extract (component, 70.79% polysaccharides) from TF‐GT showed higher immuno‐stimulating activity. TF‐GT and TF‐TJ can be separated via cluster analysis, suggesting that the above‐mentioned parameters are essential to characterise the qualities of GI products of T. fuciformis. Understanding these different properties are vital to product processing and dietary guideline formulation.
Sensory profile and consumer perception of meat products enriched with EPA and DHA using fish oil microcapsules
Authors: Solomando Juan Carlos , Antequera Teresa , Ventanas Sonia , Perez‐Palacios Trinidad
Published: December 2020

The sensory properties of cooked and dry‐cured sausages enriched with monolayered and multilayered fish oil microcapsules, as EPA and DHA vehicles, were investigated, by using quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA), temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) and hedonic and purchase intent tests. The enrichment effect was slight, mainly influencing flavour attributes, which led to lower scores in the QDA and lower dominance rate in TDS. The effect on acceptability and purchase intent depends on the meat product, being more noticeable in cooked sausages. It is worth noting the impact of the label information that increased the scores of hedonic and purchase intent tests. All these results may point out the use of fish oil microcapsules, the adjustment of the content of salt and flavour additives and the inclusion of accurate label information to enrich meat products. The importance of combining different sensory techniques to achieve a complete sensory evaluation of meat products has also been highlighted in the present study.
Nomogram predicting 30‐day mortality after nephrectomy in the contemporary era: Results from the SEER database
Authors: Falagario Ugo Giovanni , Veccia Alessandro , Cormio Luigi , Simeone Claudio , Carbonara Umberto , Crocerossa Fabio , Antonelli Alessandro , Porpiglia Francesco , Carrieri Giuseppe , Autorino Riccardo
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To assess contemporary 30‐day mortality rates after partial and radical nephrectomy in USA, and to develop a predictive model of 30‐day mortality.

Methods

We relied on the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was fitted to predict 30‐day mortality. A nomogram was built based on the coefficients of the logit function. Internal validation was carried out using the leave‐one‐out cross‐validation. Calibration was graphically investigated.

Results

A total of 102 146 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy (n = 36 425; 35.7%) or radical nephrectomy (n = 65 721; 64.3%) between 2005 and 2015 were included in the analysis. The median age at diagnosis was 62 years. A total of 11 921 (11.7%) patients were African American. The clinical stage was T1–T2 in 79 452 (77.8%), T3 in 16 141 (15.8%) and T4/T1–4–M1 in 6553 (6.4%) patients. Overall, 497 deaths occurred during the initial 30 days after nephrectomy (0.49% 30‐day mortality rate). Stratified by type of surgery, the 30‐day mortality rate was 0.16% for partial nephrectomy and 0.67% for radical nephrectomy. At univariate analyses, age, tumor size, stage and surgical procedure emerged as predictors of 30‐day mortality (all P < 0.001). All of these covariates were included in the multivariable logistic regression model. The area under the curve after leave‐one‐out cross‐validation was 0.808 (95% confidence interval 0.788–0.828), and the model showed good calibration in the range of predicted probability <10%.

Conclusions

Contemporary rates of 30‐day mortality in patients undergoing radical or partial nephrectomy are very low. Age and tumor stage are key determinants of 30‐day mortality. We present a predictive model that provides individual probabilities of 30‐day mortality after nephrectomy, and it can be used for patient counseling prior surgery.
Institutional uncertainty and growth expectations of businesses: the case of Jordan
Authors: Sandri Serena , Alshyab Nooh
Published: December 2020

Uncertainty about the institutional environment plays a crucial role in business‐related decisions. Measuring institutional uncertainty, in light of its interplay with normative, regulatory, and cognitive aspects of institutions, is a complex issue. This study develops a multidimensional index to measure the perception of institutional uncertainty by private sector decision‐makers and to assess its effects on the perspectives of business growth. The index captures uncertainty related to government and policies, law and law enforcement, judiciary, security of persons and property rights, political instability, and state–private sector relations. The developed indicator is then measured based on a survey run over a representative sample of 319 business owners, entrepreneurs, and top managers in Jordan. The results of binary logit regressions support the view that if institutions are perceived to be uncertain, this negatively influences the growth expectations of businesses. More specifically, it emerges that the uncertainty related to the judiciary, to political instability, as well as to clientelism and corruption significantly contributes to discouraging job creation. The results further point to the importance of social capital and networking for doing business.
Individual and organizational factors associated with evidence‐based practice among physical and occupational therapy recent graduates: A cross‐sectional national study
Authors: Thomas Aliki , Al Zoubi Fadi , Mayo Nancy E. , Ahmed Sara , Amari Fatima , Bussières André , Letts Lori , MacDermid Joy C. , Polatajko Helene J. , Rappolt Susan , Salbach Nancy M. , Valois Marie‐France , Rochette Annie
Published: December 2020

Background

Occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) programs in Canada have moved to graduate‐level entry education to address graduates' readiness for evidence‐based practice (EBP). Whether rehabilitation professionals with advanced training in EBP are meeting their responsibilities as evidence‐based professionals upon entry into practice and the factors that influence the use of evidence is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the individual and organizational factors associated with the use of EBP and supporting evidence‐based activities among graduates of professional OT and PT master's programs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design using a survey of recent graduates of the 29 OT and PT programs in Canada. The survey measured six constructs supportive of EBP (ie, knowledge, attitudes, confidence, organizational resources, actual use of EBP, and evidence‐based activities). Analyses consisted of descriptive statistics to characterize the sample and the different variables and ordinal multivariate regression analysis.

Results

257 graduates (15%) completed the survey. Attitudes towards EBP was positively associated both with evidence‐based activities (odds ratio = 1.36 with a 95% CI: 1.22 to 1.52) and use of EBP (odds ratio = 1.23 with a 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.36); greater confidence was related to greater use of EBP (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.24); and working in a private practice setting was found to be related to performing more evidence‐based activities (odds ratio = 3.15, 95% CI: 1.40 to 7.12).

Conclusions

Despite a greater focus on EBP knowledge in these curricula across Canada, knowledge was not related to EBP use nor evidence‐based activities upon entry into practice. On the other hand, attitudes, confidence and working in private practice were. University programs should consider curricular strategies that increase the use of EBP, provide opportunities to engage in evidence‐based activities with an emphasis on promoting the development of positive attitudes towards EBP and increasing learners' confidence in their ability to be evidence‐based professionals.
Older Adults’ Engagement in Technology‐Mediated Self‐Monitoring of Diet: A Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Aure Caroline Farsjø , Kluge Anders , Moen Anne
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This feasibility study explored older adults’ use of a nutrition app called Appetitus (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/appetitt/id1001936854?ign‐mpt=uo%3D2; https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=no.nr.appetitt&hl=e) and addressed their engagement in technology‐mediated self‐monitoring of diet. Undernutrition is a significant challenge among older adults and is associated with poorer health experiences. Digital health for self‐monitoring of diet has the potential to increase awareness of personal nutrition, and the scarcity of research reporting older adults’ ability and willingness to engage in technology‐mediated dietary self‐monitoring warranted this study.

Design and Methods

An explorative mixed‐methods design combining descriptive analysis of log data with qualitative analysis of interviews with Appetitus users was implemented.

Findings

Twenty‐five older adults self‐monitored their diet using Appetitus over an 8‐week trial period. Eighty percent of the participants used the app regularly in the trial period. The most engaged users recorded their food consumption daily for 8 weeks. Personal interest in nutrition and commitment to the project facilitated regular use of Appetitus. Poor health and the perception that using a nutrition app lacked personal relevance contributed to irregular self‐monitoring. For inexperienced technology users, participation in this project became a springboard to using tablet technology and the Internet beyond the Appetitus app.

Conclusions

The majority of the participants regularly used Appetitus for self‐monitoring of diet; they found the tablet technology and Appetitus app easy to use.

Clinical Relevance

Older adults are able and willing to use self‐monitoring tools. Nutrition apps can empower older adults to make better informed decisions about their diet. Patients’ self‐monitoring can provide valuable and detailed health‐related information to healthcare professionals and mediate patient‐centered care practices.
Escherichia coli‐associated granulomatous colitis in dogs treated according to antimicrobial susceptibility profiling
Authors: Manchester Alison C. , Dogan Belgin , Guo Yongli , Simpson Kenneth W.
Published: December 2020

Background

Eradication of intramucosal Escherichia coli correlates with remission of periodic acid‐Schiff‐positive E coli‐associated granulomatous colitis (GC). Treatment failures attributed to multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria necessitate alternative approaches.

Hypothesis/objectives

Determine clinical outcome of E coli‐associated GC in dogs treated based on antimicrobial susceptibility profiling and characterize E coli phylogeny and resistance mechanisms.

Animals

Twenty Boxers and 4 French Bulldogs with E coli‐associated GC.

Methods

Culture, antimicrobial susceptibility profiling, and molecular characterization of E coli were performed and response to treatment was evaluated.

Results

Initial biopsy sample culture yielded fluoroquinolone‐sensitive (FQ‐S) E coli from 9/24 dogs and fluoroquinolone‐resistant (FQ‐R) E coli from 15/24. All but 1 FQ‐R E coli were MDR with susceptibility to macrophage‐penetrating antimicrobials restricted to carbapenems in 13/15 dogs. Of 22/24 treated based on susceptibility profiling, 8/9 FQ‐S dogs had complete initial clinical response (CR) during fluoroquinolone (FQ) treatment, whereas 9/13 FQ‐R dogs had complete or partial response (PR) during meropenem or doxycycline treatment. In 5/9 FQ‐S and 12/13 FQ‐R dogs with follow‐up ≥3 months, CR was sustained in 5/5 FQ‐S (median, 25 months; range, 4‐46) whereas 6/12 FQ‐R had long‐term CR (median, 59 months; range 15‐102), 4/12 PR (median, 19 months; range, 5‐65), and 2/12 had no response (NR). Four dogs with long‐term follow‐up died within 4 years of diagnosis, including 2 euthanized for refractory colitis. Escherichia coli were genetically diverse. Fluoroquinolone resistance was associated with mutations in gyrA and parC, with plasmid‐mediated resistance less common.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Antimicrobial treatment guided by susceptibility profiling was associated with positive long‐term outcomes in >80% of cases. Fluoroquinolone‐resistance was widespread and not clonal. Further study is required to optimize treatment for dogs with MDR E coli‐associated GC.
Retrospective study of proliferative urethritis in dogs: Clinical presentation and outcome using various treatment modalities in 11 dogs
Authors: Emanuel Max , Berent Allyson C. , Weisse Chick , Donovan Taryn , Lamb Kenneth E.
Published: December 2020

Background

Proliferative urethritis (PU) is an uncommon inflammatory and infiltrative disease of the urethra in female dogs, often associated with urinary tract infection (UTI). It typically presents with evidence of urethral obstruction (UO).

Objectives

Identify clinical features in dogs with PU and determine outcome after different treatment modalities.

Animals

Eleven client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records of dogs with histopathologic diagnosis of PU from 2011 to 2020 were retrospectively evaluated, including information on clinical pathology, imaging, and histopathology. Outcomes of various treatment modalities were recorded and compared. Long‐term urethral patency (>6 months) was considered treatment success.

Results

All dogs were female and presented with UO. Eight (73%) had a history of UTI. Ten of 11 survived to discharge and were used for long‐term data collection. Seven of 10 (70%) were treated using an effacement procedure (balloon dilatation [BD], stent, or both) and 6/7 (86%) achieved long‐term urethral patency (>6 months). Seven of 10 had UO recurrence after their first procedure, including 3/3 (100%) that did not have effacement and 4/7 that did (57%), at a median of 101 days and 687 days, respectively. After effacement, the duration of patency was longer for those treated using a stent than BD alone (median, 843 days and 452 days, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Proliferative urethritis is a recurrent disease often associated with UTI. The best outcome of long‐term urethral patency occurred after lesion effacement, either by BD or stenting. Future prospective studies should determine the impact of immunosuppressive treatment.
Evidence for shock provides insight into the formation of the central elevated area in the Dhala impact structure, India
Authors: Agarwal Amar , Kumar Satyendra , Joshi Gaurav , Agarwal K. K.
Published: December 2020

The central elevated area is a postimpact morphological landmark in the otherwise flat eroded remnant of the Dhala impact structure, India. Its base is the Bundelkhand granitic complex followed by beds of Dhala and Kaimur Formations. The beds of the Dhala and Kaimur Formation present typical sedimentary textures and structures such as cross‐bedding. The grains are angular, sorting is moderate to poor, and brittle–ductile deformation of the protolith is still preserved in some grains. This reveals a short distance of transport. Detailed microscopy and U‐stage measurements confirm planar deformational features (PDFs) oriented (0001) and {10–13} in few quartz grains. Based on these facts, it is suggested that the quartz with PDFs was shocked, ejected out of the crater, and deposited near the crater cavity. Reworking of the ejecta blanket redeposited these quartz grains to their present location. Relatively few shocked grains in the rocks favor a postimpact fluvial process over impact resurge.
Hidden variation: cultivars and wild plants differ in trait variation with surprising root trait outcomes
Authors: Foxx Alicia J. , Kramer Andrea T.
Published: December 2020

Restoration practitioners have many seed material choices when restoring plant communities, and cultivars may be the most affordable and accessible material available for some species. However, the process of plant selection and commercial seed production can limit trait variability critical to survival and persistence in heterogeneous environments. Several studies show the impacts of plant selection and commercial production on trait values and variation in aboveground traits. Yet, researchers rarely assess impacts on root traits in wild‐collected material relative to cultivars. This is a critical gap, especially in arid environments where root traits play key roles in plant survival. We grew Pseudoroegneria spicata seedlings from three wild accessions and three cultivars (the cultivars “Whitmar” and “Goldar,” and the “selected germplasm polycross” “P‐7”) to compare root and shoot traits and variability. We grew seedlings in a growth chamber for 4 weeks in sand, which had low moisture content and few added nutrients, resulting in stressful conditions. We harvested the plants and compared trait variation and averages between wild‐collected versus cultivars for four shoot and four root traits. We found that wild accessions had marginally greater variation in root tip count, root mass fraction, and shoot mass fraction. Importantly, wild‐collected plants had 51% more root tips on average, greater variability in four of seven traits that exhibited differing variability between collection types, and greater survival compared to cultivars. These results indicate differences in traits and variation in wild and cultivated accessions that should be considered when choosing material for restoration use.
On Revolutionary Waves and the Dynamics of Landslides
Authors: Ille Sebastian
Published: December 2020

This paper argues that revolutionary waves and social movements share similar dynamics to sand sliding down the edges of a pile. On this basis, the paper develops a theoretical model in which contention arises endogenously through discontent and social imitation as the social system self‐organizes into a state of criticality over time. Revolts and collective actions are thus understood as subsequent reorganizing cascades once the system has reached such a critical state. Although taken by themselves the properties and timings of these cascades are entirely chaotic, at the aggregate level the cascades’ properties follow regularities that are impervious to the individual characteristics of individuals but are affected by the intrinsic structure of social networks.
Pension reforms, the generational welfare contract and preferences for pro‐old welfare policies in Europe
Authors: Riekhoff Aart‐Jan
Published: December 2020

This study investigates how various types of pension reforms affect the age‐related policy preferences of different cohorts and whether they reinforce or undermine the generational welfare contract. It uses detailed descriptions from OECD Pensions at a Glance reports to create indicators for pension reforms in 18 European countries between 2008 and 2016. These indicators are combined with European Social Survey data from 2008 and 2016 to measure preferences towards welfare programmes that benefit the old compared to policies that benefit the working population and families with children. A difference‐in‐difference design is applied to test whether there are differences between reform and non‐reform countries and between cohorts. Pension reforms were found to be associated with stronger declines in pro‐old policy preferences in countries that raised the retirement age or introduced private pensions. The results show that although support for pro‐old welfare policies has declined in almost all countries, this has not necessarily undermined the generational welfare contract. Rather, there has been a re‐balancing of preferences towards policies that also favour other generations in other life‐course stages.
Evaluating automated titre score as an alternative to continuous flow analysis for the prediction of passive anti‐D in pregnancy
Authors: Evans Michelle L. , Holmes Benjamin , Dowling Kerry , Lofting Tracey , Barnett Matthew R. , Heydon Nicolette , Clarke Tracy , Hall Christopher , Surmann Eva‐Maria , Callsen Sophie C. I. , Malomgre Wim
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the potential of the automated titre score (TS) as an alternative method to continuous flow analysis (CFA) for the prediction of the nature of anti‐D in pregnancy.

Background

The 2016 revised British Society for Haematology (BSH) antenatal guidelines recommended a measurement of anti‐D concentration by CFA to ensure the detection of potential immune anti‐D. Due to high referral costs and resource pressures, uptake has been challenging for hospital laboratories. Serious Hazards of transfusion (SHOT) data have previously shown that this has contributed to missed antenatal follow ups for women with immune anti‐D and neonates affected by haemolytic disease of the fetus/newborn.

Methods/Materials

In this multicentre comparative study, samples referred for CFA quantification were also tested by an ORTHO VISION automated anti‐D indirect antiglobulin test (IAT) serial dilution and then converted to TS. CFA results and history of anti‐D prophylaxis were used to categorise samples as passive or immune, with the aim of determining a potential TS cut‐off for CFA referral of at risk patients.

Results

Five UK National Health Service (NHS) trusts generated a total of 196 anti‐D TS results, of which 128 were classified as passive and 68 as immune. Diagnostic testing of CFA and TS values indicated a TS cut‐off of 35 to assist in distinguishing the nature of anti‐D. Using this cut‐off, 175 (89%) results were correctly assigned into the passive or immune range, giving a specificity of 92.19% and a negative predictive value of 91.47%.

Conclusion

TS in conjunction with clinical and anti‐D prophylaxis history can be used as a viable and cost‐effective alternative to CFA in a hospital laboratory setting.
Effects of soil and crop management practices and pedo‐hydrological conditions on the seedbank size of Galinsoga spp. in organic vegetable fields
Authors: De Cauwer Benny , Biesemans Nina , De Ryck Sander , Delanote Lieven , Dewaele Karel , Willekens Koen , Vanden Nest Thijs , Reheul Dirk
Published: December 2020

Galinsoga quadriradiata and Galinsoga parviflora are very troublesome weeds in many organic vegetable crops in Europe. A very straightforward method to keep Galinsoga infestations under control is by targeting the Galinsoga seedbank. To identify cropping systems able to reduce the seedbank size in vegetable‐based cropping systems, the relationships between the seedbank size of Galinsoga species and prevailing soil/crop management practices and pedo‐hydrological conditions were investigated. Hereto, the seedbank of the 0–20 cm topsoil layer was sampled in 50 organic vegetable fields and analysed according to the seedling emergence method. Field history data were collected for the past 5 years, and physical, chemical and microbial soil quality was determined. Galinsoga quadriradiata was the most frequent and abundant Galinsoga species in the weed seedbank. The genus Galinsoga was present in 90% of the soil weed seedbanks of organic vegetable fields but displayed wide variation in abundance. Smallest Galinsoga seedbanks were found in fields that were predominantly tilled with non‐inversion implements or rotationally ploughed, and continuously cropped with competitive crops during the entire growing season (April 15‐November 15). Contrary to G. quadriradiata, seedbank size of G. parviflora was closely related to soil organic carbon content and sand fraction. Remarkably, soils with a low level of easily plant‐available phosphorus and concomitant high activity of arbuscular mycorrhizae had smaller G. quadriradiata seedbanks. To reduce Galinsoga infestations, fields should preferably be tilled without soil inversion, fertilised with organic amendments with low content of readily plant‐available phosphorus and cropped with competitive crops all season long.
Selection of a novel AAV2/TNFAIP3 vector for local suppression of islet xenograft inflammation
Authors: Zammit Nathan W. , Seeberger Karen L. , Zamerli Jad , Walters Stacey N. , Lisowski Leszek , Korbutt Gregory S. , Grey Shane T.
Published: December 2020

Background

Neonatal porcine islets (NPIs) can restore glucose control in mice, pigs, and non‐human primates, representing a potential abundant alternative islet supply for clinical beta cell replacement therapy. However, NPIs are vulnerable to inflammatory insults that could be overcome with genetic modifications. Here, we demonstrate in a series of proof‐of‐concept experiments the potential of the cytoplasmic ubiquitin‐editing protein A20, encoded by the TNFAIP3 gene, as an NPI cytoprotective gene.

Methods

We forced A20 expression in NPI grafts using a recombinant adenovirus 5 (Ad5) vector and looked for impact on TNF‐stimulated NF‐κB activation and NPI graft function. As adeno‐associated vectors (AAV) are clinically preferred vectors but exhibit poor transduction efficacy in NPIs, we next screened a series of AAV serotypes under different transduction protocols for their ability achieve high transduction efficiency and suppress NPI inflammation without impacting NPI maturation.

Results

Forcing the expression of A20 in NPI with Ad5 vector blocked NF‐κB activation by inhibiting IκBα phosphorylation and degradation, and reduced the induction of pro‐inflammatory genes Cxcl10 and Icam1. A20‐expressing NPIs also exhibited superior functional capacity when transplanted into diabetic immunodeficient recipient mice, evidenced by a more rapid return to euglycemia and improved GTT compared to unmodified NPI grafts. We found AAV2 combined with a 14‐day culture period maximized NPI transduction efficiency (>70% transduction rate), and suppressed NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression without adverse impact upon NPI maturation.

Conclusion

We report a new protocol that allows for high‐efficiency genetic modification of NPIs, which can be utilized to introduce candidate genes without the need for germline engineering. This approach would be suitable for preclinical and clinical testing of beneficial molecules. We also report for the first time that A20 is cytoprotective for NPI, such that A20 gene therapy could aid the clinical development of NPIs for beta cell replacement.
Investigating the epidemiology of methanol poisoning outbreaks: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Askarian Mehrdad , Khakpour Mahasti , Taghrir Mohammad Hossein , Akbarialiabad Hossein , Borazjani Roham
Published: December 2020

Objective:

We aim to identify relevant studies from 2000 to 2020 regarding methanol poisoning outbreaks and map the existing literature with a focus on the epidemiology and global burden of disease.

Introduction:

Methanol poisoning occurs in individuals or as an outbreak. Illicit productions are responsible for most methanol poisoning outbreaks; however, there are some occupational, suicidal, and homicidal incidences as well. In methanol poisoning outbreaks, medical facilities get overwhelmed quickly. The current WHO fact sheet dates back to 2014 and there have been no updates since. Based on our preliminary search, it seems that the course of methanol outbreaks has changed.

Inclusion criteria:

The study will include peer-reviewed articles and gray papers that focus on the epidemiology of methanol poisoning outbreaks. This review will consider all methanol poisoning outbreak victims without any limitation in geographical, social, cultural, or gender-based demographics.

Methods:

A three-step search strategy will be used. First, an initial search will be done in MEDLINE and Scopus to identify key terms. Those key terms will then be searched across included databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science) and sources for gray literature. In a third step, references and Google Scholar will be searched manually. Two reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts, then full texts for identifying inclusion criteria and data extraction. Disagreements will be resolved by a senior author. Extracted data will be tabulated and mapped. Quantitative data will be reported using descriptive numerical summary analysis.
Numerical Evaluation of Spray-Guided Glow Plug Assistance on Gasoline Compression Ignition During Cold Idle Operation in a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhao Le , Pei Yuanjiang , Zhang Yu , Kumar Praveen , Tzanetakis Tom , Traver Michael , Ameen Muhsin
Published: December 2020

Starting compression ignition engines under cold conditions is extremely challenging, due to insufficient fuel vaporization, heavy wall impingement, and low ignitability of the fuel. For gasoline compression ignition (GCI) combustion strategies, which offer the potential for an enhanced NOx-PM tradeoff with diesel-like fuel efficiency, robust ignition and combustion in very cold conditions pose a significant challenge due to the low reactivity of gasoline fuels. Based on the previous understanding of the spray, ignition and combustion processes for a GCI engine under cold conditions, this study focuses on investigating the cold combustion performance of a heavy-duty GCI engine with glow plug ignition assist. Glow plugs, commonly used for low temperature cold starts in diesel engines, are used to pre-heat a segment of the mixture to improve its ignitability. Here, CFD studies are carried out to explore the influence of a spray-guided glow plug on the spray and combustion behavior of a GCI engine under cold operating conditions. In a prior study, the underlying CFD model has been validated using experimental data from a six-cylinder, 15 L heavy-duty diesel engine operating with a compression ratio (CR) of 17.3 at a 600 rpm cold idle condition with RON92 E0 gasoline. The energy intensity required by the glow plug to deliver stable combustion isparametrically studied. The size and location of the glow plug are also parametrically varied to evaluate their effects on the combustion process. The influence of the glow plug on the in-cylinder mixture distribution and the ensuing combustion process is also investigated. In particular, the localized fuel spray distribution and mixture formation near the glow plug are examined. The results reveal that the glow plug enhances GCI combustion under cold idle conditions and that the spray-guided glow plug improves fuel vaporization, leading to a rich mixture near the glow plug and an enhancement of the combustion efficiency. In addition, the effectiveness of the glow plug at a low ambient temperature of 0°C and a 200 rpm cold start condition is evaluated. These simulations suggest that the glow plug can improve the cold start performance of a GCI engine.
Optimization and Simulation of a CFR Engine Fueled by Dilute Anode Tail-Gas
Authors: Balu Alexander , Castro Miguel , Padhi Geet , Bandhauer Todd , Windom Bret , Garland Shane , Olsen Daniel , Braun Robert
Published: December 2020

Recent innovations in Metal Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (MS-SOFC) have increased the longevity and reliability of fuel cells. These innovations drive the desire to create power generating systems that combine different ways of extracting power from a fuel to increase overall thermal efficiency. This investigation assesses the feasibility of operating an internal combustion engine with the anode tail-gas, which is a blend of H2, CO, CO2, H2O, and CH4, exhausted by a MS-SOFC. This engine would be used to support fuel cell balance of plant equipment and produce excess electrical power.

Four variations of the expected anode tail-gas blends were determined by varying the dewpoint temperature of the fuel. Gas blends are tested by combining separate flows of each constituent, and combustion is tested using a Cooperative Fuel Research (CFR) engine. Compression ratio, spark timing, inlet manifold temperature, and boost pressure were used to obtain optimal operating conditions. Stable engine operation was obtained on all test blends. A combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and analysis of chemical species and reaction mechanisms is used to develop an engine and combustion model. This model allows for further investigation into anode tail-gas combustion characteristics. Response Surface Method Optimization was used to experimentally optimize operating parameters and determine the maximum achievable efficiency utilizing the CFR engine.

All test blends with H2O produced power in the engine although the blend with the most water content caused operational problems with the CFR engine test stand, including large amounts of water entering the oil system. Three chemical kinetic mechanisms were investigated that had the correct species for simulating the fuel with a low number of reactions to facilitate low computational time: San Diego (SD), GRI and Gallway 2017 (NUIG) mechanism. Out of these four mechanisms, the NUIG mechanism results fit the CFR engine experimental data best. Response Surface Method Optimization was performed on the most viable test blends, the steam injections blends at 40°C and 90°C fuel dewpoint temperature. During optimization the 40°C dewpoint temperature blend brake efficiency increased from 20% to 21.6%, and the 90°C dewpoint temperature blend brake efficiency increased from 17% to 22.3%.