bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of intervention aimed at improving reproductive success in Orange‐bellied Parrots Neophema chrysogaster: Lessons, barriers and successes
Authors: Stojanovic Dejan , Young Catherine , Troy Shannon , Heinsohn Robert
Published: September 2020

Assessing feasibility and identifying constraints that affect project implementation is a crucial step for planning long‐term species recovery actions for field‐based programs. We report on the outcomes of a conservation intervention on the most endangered parrot in the world, the Orange‐bellied Parrot (Neophema chrysogaster). We aimed to trial new techniques to increase reproductive success of wild nests and address key knowledge gaps. We aimed to achieve higher reproductive success using (i) intervention – where fertile eggs or nestlings would be fostered from captivity to wild nests that suffered infertility or had small brood sizes and (ii) rescue – where wild‐born nestlings would be removed from nests if they were ailing and either fostered to another nest or hand reared to improve their survival. Our project provided proof of principle that it is possible to implement intensive, individual‐level monitoring and intervention (via fostering of nestlings to infertile nests) to address reproductive problems for the Orange‐bellied Parrot. However, we also found important factors that hindered our ability to achieve project aims (management of biosecurity), and identified unexpected factors that have important implications for future application of these techniques (nest abandonment from video camera deployment, rapid death of unhealthy nestlings hindering rescue attempts). Our project tested techniques and tools to provide new approaches for fighting extinction of the Orange‐bellied Parrot, and yielded important new information about the species ecology and management options.
Blood biomarkers associated with inflammation predict poor prognosis in cerebral venous thrombosis:
Authors: Aguiar de Sousa D. , Pereira‐Santos M. C. , Serra‐Caetano A. , Lucas Neto L. , Sousa A. L. , Gabriel D. , Correia M. , Gil‐Gouveia R. , Oliveira R. , Penas S. , Carvalho Dias M. , Correia M. A. , Carvalho M. , Sousa A. E. , Canhão P. , Ferro J. M.
Published: September 2020

Background and purpose

Experimental studies suggest inflammation can contribute to blood barrier disruption and brain injury in cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). We aimed to determine whether blood biomarkers of inflammation were associated with the evolution of brain lesions, persistent venous occlusion or functional outcome in patients with CVT.

Methods

Pathophysiology of Venous Infarction—Prediction of Infarction and Recanalization in CVT (PRIORITy‐CVT) was a multicenter prospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed CVT. Evaluation of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations in peripheral blood samples was performed at admission in 62 patients. Additional quantification of interleukin (IL)‐6 was performed at day 1, 3 and 8 in 35 patients and 22 healthy controls. Standardized magnetic resonance imaging was performed at day 1, 8 and 90. Primary outcomes were early evolution of brain lesion, early recanalization and functional outcome at 90 days.

Results

Interleukin‐6 levels were increased in patients with CVT with a peak at baseline. IL‐6, NLR and CRP levels were not related with brain lesion outcomes or early recanalization but had a significant association with unfavourable functional outcome at 90 days (IL‐6: OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.05–1.56, P = 0.046; NLR: OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.4–1.87, P = 0.014; CRP: OR = 1.756, 95% CI: 1.010–3.051, P = 0.029). Baseline IL‐6 had the best discriminative capacity, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to predict unfavourable functional outcome of 0.74 (P = 0.031).

Conclusions

Increased baseline levels of NLR, CRP and IL‐6 may serve as new predictive markers of worse functional prognosis at 90 days in patients with CVT. No association was found between inflammatory markers and early evolution of brain lesion or venous recanalization.
Interparental Relationship Quality During Pregnancy: Implications for Early Parent–Infant Bonding and Infant Socioemotional Development
Authors: Ramsdell Erin L. , Brock Rebecca L.
Published: September 2020

Las investigaciones demuestran el papel fundamental que desempeñan las relaciones entre madre e hijo en el desarrollo socioemocional del niño; sin embargo, las familias son sistemas complejos, y los papeles únicos que desempeñan los múltiples subsistemas familiares en el desarrollo temprano del bebé han recibido menos atención. En el presente estudio, investigamos el papel que desempeñan varias relaciones familiares (interparentales, mamá‐bebé, papá‐bebé) durante el embarazo y el primer mes después del parto en el funcionamiento socioemocional a los 6 meses. Administramos entrevistas semiestructuradas durante el embarazo para evaluar varias cualidades de la relación interparental. Un mes después del parto, los padres realizaron informes acerca de sus sentimientos y actitudes hacia su bebé para evaluar deficiencias en el vínculo. A los 6 meses, los padres proporcionaron informes del funcionamiento socioemocional del niño. Los vínculos deficientes tanto entre la madre y el bebé como entre el padre y el bebé estuvieron asociados exclusivamente con una deficiencia socioemocional del bebé, teniendo en cuenta la calidad de la relación interparental prenatal. Además, varias dimensiones de la relación interparental (p. ej.: la mala calidad de la gestión de conflictos, el apoyo inadecuado para los papás y los niveles bajos de respeto hacia las mamás) estuvieron asociadas con una deficiencia socioemocional del bebé teniendo en cuenta el vínculo entre los padres y los bebés. Los resultados también demostraron una vía indirecta, por ejemplo, que la mala calidad de vida sexual durante el embarazo estuvo asociada con el informe de los padres (pero no de las madres) de un vínculo más deficiente con sus bebés, el cual estuvo ligado a una mayor deficiencia socioemocional del bebé. Los resultados destacan la importancia de comprender el entorno familiar amplio antes e inmediatamente después del nacimiento del niño a fin de identificar niños en riesgo lo antes posible en las etapas de la intervención.
Overview of Contributions inGeographical Analysis: Waldo Tobler
Authors: Murray Alan T. , Xu Jing , Baik Jiwon , Burtner Susan , Cho Seonga , Noi Evgeny , Pludow B. Amelia , Zhou Enbo
Published: September 2020

The academic contributions of Waldo Tobler are noteworthy and significant, spanning essentially all disciplines that involve the study of geographic phenomena. While much attention has been given to his observations of the first law of geography, there is much more substance to his larger body of research. It is especially fitting that this commemorative special issue is appearing inGeographical Analysisas Tobler published extensively in the journal, beginning in the first volume in 1969 up to volume 42 in 2010, making important contributions to quantitative theoretical geography. His research helped to build and sustain the journal, laying the foundation for what is the premier quantitative geography outlet today. This article reviews his publication activity inGeographical Analysis.
Body mass index and noninfectious comorbidity in HIV‐positive patients commencing antiretroviral therapy in Zimbabwe
Authors: Bleasel JM , Heron JE , Shamu T , Chimbetete C , Dahwa R , Gracey DM
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The aim of the study was to describe the prevalence of elevated body mass index (BMI) in a cohort of treatment‐naïve people living with HIV (PLWH) and to investigate the association of BMI with CD4 count and noninfectious comorbidities including hypertension and renal impairment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 1598 PLWH at the Newlands Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe was carried out. Data were extracted from the medical records at baseline and 6 months after initiation of treatment. The univariate association between BMI and CD4 count was assessed and multiple regression models were used to predict factors associated with loss of renal function and change in CD4 count at 6 months.

Results

Overweight and obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) were prevalent in this cohort (34%), as was the presence of hypertension (18%). Higher BMI was associated with a higher CD4 count at baseline and 6 months (B = 0.28 and 0.24, respectively; P < 0.001 for both), adjusted for age and sex. The presence of hypertension independently predicted loss of renal function at 6 months (B = −15.31; P < 0.001), adjusted for BMI, CD4 count and sex. High BMI itself was also independently associated with a decline in renal function (B = −0.41; P = 0.003), adjusted for other significant variables.

Conclusions

We demonstrate a high prevalence of overweight/obesity and hypertension in an urban cohort of PLWH in Zimbabwe. Higher BMI was associated with a higher CD4 count, both before and 6 months after commencing antiretroviral therapy; it was also associated with loss of renal function in this cohort.
Students’ motivating influences for selecting dental hygiene and a 4‐year degree: A retrospective study
Authors: Katyal Shivalika , Kanji Zul
Published: September 2020

Purpose

A growing body of research is exploring why applicants select to enrol into a 4‐year dental hygiene degree in Canada when the entry‐to‐practice credential remains a diploma. The aims of this study were to investigate first‐year entry‐to‐practice students’ motivating influences for choosing the dental hygiene profession and enrolling in a baccalaureate program.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2018, first‐year students in the University of British Columbia's Bachelor of Dental Science program completed orientation surveys. A secondary data analysis was conducted on a total of 127 orientation surveys from a cumulative first‐year population over a 5‐year period. 159 students participated in the surveys for an 80% response rate. Survey questions were open‐ended. Saldaña's approach to coding was used to analyse the descriptive data for emerging themes.

Results

The primary reasons for choosing dental hygiene as a profession included personal desire (65%) which involved students’ desire to help others, as well as past experience (32%) relating to personal, goal or external experiences. Two prominent themes for choosing a dental hygiene degree emerged and included expanding career opportunities outside of clinical practice (82%) and broadening and deepening one's knowledge base (34%).

Conclusions

The results provide insight about the factors that influence prospective dental hygiene students to pursue a baccalaureate credential that is presently beyond the entry‐to‐practice requirements for the dental hygiene profession in Canada.
An aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist suppresses the growth of human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro: Potent effect with polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Yamaguchi Masayoshi , Hankinson Oliver
Published: September 2020

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) are a pivotal component of the hematopoietic microenvironment linked to the modulation of the immune response, inflammation and carcinogenesis. HUVEC expresses the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which regulates gene expression by binding to the xenobiotic‐responsive element. 2,3,7,8‐Tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) is a potent agonist for AHR signalling. Treatment with TCDD (0.1‐100 nmol/L) was found to suppress the proliferation and to stimulate the death of HUVEC. TCDD’s effects were abolished by culturing with CH223191, an inhibitor of AHR signalling. Mechanistically, TCDD treatment increased the protein levels of cell growth suppressors, including p53, Rb, p21 and regucalcin, and caspase‐3 implicated in apoptotic cell death, and decreased the levels of Stat3, mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK/Erk1/2) and phospho‐MAPK/Erk1/2. Treatment with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and arachidonic acid, suppressed the proliferation and stimulated the death of HUVEC in vitro, and decreased the levels of Stat3, MAPK/Erk1/2 and phospho‐MAPK/Erk1/2 and increased caspase‐3. Notably, the effects of TCDD in suppressing proliferation and stimulating death of HUVEC were modulated by coculturing with PUFAs. These effects were reversed by treatment with CH223191, an inhibitor of AHR. Treatment with both TCDD and PUFAs collaboratively enhanced the levels of AHR, CYP1A1, p53, p21, Rb and regucalcin. Moreover, TCDD suppressed migration with wound healing of HUVEC. Notably, the combination of TCDD and PUFAs revealed potent suppressive effects on angiogenesis of HUVEC, potentially related to disorders of the stromal microenvironment.
The role of culture in the transfer of training
Authors: Brion Corinne
Published: September 2020

Organizations interested in raising their performance and results spend large sums of money on training their employees, but unless the resultant learning is transferred to the work situation that investment will not yield a return. This study's initial premise is that national cultures may play a part in the transfer process. The study’s purpose is to identify national cultural factors which may influence training and learning transfer. Leadership training among school leaders in Ghana and Burkina Faso, West Africa was observed and recorded using Hofstede et al. Six Cultural Dimensions model as a framework of analysis. Some cultural factors, which may have influenced transfer, are identified and the author provides a practical checklist that training organizers can use to ensure that they account for cultural factors before, during and after training.
Diabetes in ischaemic stroke in a regional Australian hospital: uncharted territory
Authors: Hu Chih‐Chiang , Low Ashlea , O'Connor Ellie , Siriratnam Pakeeran , Hair Casey , Kraemer Thomas , Sahathevan Ramesh
Published: September 2020

Background

Stroke and diabetes mellitus (DM) are significant interrelated healthcare issues but there is a dearth of data on the prevalence of DM among Australia's regional stroke population.

Aims

We aimed to determine the prevalence of DM in stroke patients at a large regional centre, including subanalyses on stroke subtypes, glycaemic control and renal function in ischaemic stroke (IS).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients (n = 323) with IS or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) admitted to Ballarat Base Hospital from January 2015 to December 2016. Demographic data, cardiovascular risk factors, aetiology/territory of IS, pre‐morbid DM status, indicators of glycaemic control and renal impairment were recorded.

Results

DM was present in 28.5% of IS and TIA patients, including 4% being newly diagnosed. Among diabetic IS patients, 45.3% had poor glycaemic control (HbA1c ≥7.0%) while 16% had moderate to severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate of <30). The majority of IS were partial anterior circulation stroke (53.4%) and cardioembolism was the commonest mechanism (43.5%). We found no significant association between DM and a specific stroke location or mechanism.

Conclusions

Almost one‐third of IS/TIA patients had DM, with a significant proportion showing poor glycaemic control. The DM prevalence in our cohort was comparable with reported rates from other developed countries. Although we found no association between DM and a particular stroke type or mechanism, it is likely a reflection of our cohort size. Our study demonstrated that DM, as a significant risk factor in IS, warrants early detection and better management strategies.
Elucidating host–microbe interactions in vivo by studying population dynamics using neutral genetic tags
Authors: Hausmann Annika , Hardt Wolf‐Dietrich
Published: September 2020

Host–microbe interactions are highly dynamic in space and time, in particular in the case of infections. Pathogen population sizes, microbial phenotypes and the nature of the host responses often change dramatically over time. These features pose particular challenges when deciphering the underlying mechanisms of these interactions experimentally, as traditional microbiological and immunological methods mostly provide snapshots of population sizes or sparse time series. Recent approaches – combining experiments using neutral genetic tags with stochastic population dynamic models – allow more precise quantification of biologically relevant parameters that govern the interaction between microbe and host cell populations. This is accomplished by exploiting the patterns of change of tag composition in the microbe or host cell population under study. These models can be used to predict the effects of immunodeficiencies or therapies (e.g. antibiotic treatment) on populations and thereby generate hypotheses and refine experimental designs. In this review, we present tools to study population dynamics in vivo using genetic tags, explain examples for their implementation and briefly discuss future applications.
Technical and managerial efficiency assessment of European banks using a conditional nonparametric approach
Authors: Minviel Jean Joseph , Ben Bouheni Faten
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates the conditional technical and managerial efficiency of European banks through the lending channel using a robust nonparametric frontier approach. We select the largest commercial banks in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and Greece over the period 2005–2013 for our study. The estimates show significant technical inefficiency in the use of available resources for banks in our sample. The overall measure of managerial efficiency suggests sound managerial performance. However, at a detailed level, we find that, for each country examined, banks exhibit large proportions of poor managerial performance. This may explain why some banks could not resist the 2008 financial crisis. Regarding institutional factors, we find capital requirements and bank size are associated with bank efficiency in a nonlinear manner. These findings provide support for contextual factors in determining bank efficiency and rethinking financial reforms.
Nursing interventions in autologous stem cell transplantation for autoimmune diseases
Authors: Nilsen Loren , Santos Bruna N. dos , Leopoldo Vanessa C. , Reis Paula E. D. dos , Oliveira Maria C. de , Clark Alexander M. , Silveira Renata C. de C. P.
Published: September 2020

Aims

To identify clinical symptoms and nursing interventions for stem cell therapy in autoimmune diseases.

Design

This is a retrospective, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study was undertaken with patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes or multiple sclerosis, undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation from January 2004 ‐ December 2018. Data were registered in a questionnaire, taken during the conditioning regimen comprising cyclophosphamide and rabbit anti‐thymocyte globulin. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were used for data analysis.

Results

There were 68 and 23 patients in the multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes groups respectively. Skin rash, nausea, vomiting and fever were more frequent and diverse in the type 1 diabetes group. Steroids were used as prophylaxis for anti‐thymocyte globulin‐associated allergic reactions in 97% of multiple sclerosis patients. Most of the identified symptoms and nursing interventions were more associated with one or other disease group (p < .05) and were more frequent in the type 1 diabetes group.

Conclusion

Patients with autoimmune diseases who underwent stem cell therapy present differences in their repertoire of adverse events and require disease‐specific nursing actions.

Impact

Our results may enable nurses to establish transplant and disease‐specific guidelines to improve prevention and management of adverse events and therefore optimize patient care and therapeutic success.
A circulating exosomal microRNA panel as a novel biomarker for monitoring post‐transplant renal graft function
Authors: Chen Yimeng , Han Xu , Sun Yangyang , He Xiaozhou , Xue Dong
Published: September 2020

Accurate and effective biomarkers for continuous monitoring of graft function are needed after kidney transplantation. The aim of this study was to establish a circulating exosomal miRNA panel as non‐invasive biomarker for kidney transplant recipients. Plasma exosomes of 58 kidney transplant recipients and 27 healthy controls were extracted by gel exclusion chromatography and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis and Western blotting. Post‐transplant renal graft function was evaluated by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs). Exosomal miR‐21, miR‐210 and miR‐4639 showed negative correlations with eGFR in the training set and were selected for further analysis. In the validation set, miR‐21, miR‐210 and miR‐4639 showed the capability to discriminate between subjects with chronic allograft dysfunction (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and those with normal graft function (eGFR > 90 mL/min/1.73 m2). Three‐miRNA panel exhibited higher accuracy compared with individual miRNAs or double indicators. One‐year follow‐up revealed a stable recovery of allograft function in subjects with low calculated score from three‐miRNA panel (below the optimal cut‐off value). In conclusion, a unique circulating exosomal miRNA panel was identified as an effective biomarker for monitoring post‐transplant renal graft function in this study.
Endosymbionts facilitate rapid evolution in a polyphagous herbivore
Authors: Lenhart Paul A. , White Jennifer A.
Published: September 2020

Maternally transmitted bacterial symbionts can be important mediators of the interactions between insect herbivores and their foodplants. These symbionts are often facultative (present in some host individuals but not others) and can have large effects on their host's phenotype, thus giving rise to heritable variation upon which selection can act. In the cowpea aphid (Aphis craccivora), it has been established that the facultative endosymbiont Arsenophonus improves aphid performance on black locust trees (Robinia pseudoacacia) but not on fava (Vicia faba). Here, we tested whether this fitness differential translated into contemporaneous evolution of aphid populations associated with the different plants. In a laboratory study lasting 16 weeks, we found that the frequency of Arsenophonus‐infected individuals significantly increased over time for aphid populations on black locust but declined for aphid populations on fava. By the end of the experiment, Arsenophonus infection was >3× more common on black locust than fava, which is comparable to previously described infection frequencies in natural field populations. Our results clearly demonstrate that aphid populations with mixed facultative symbiont infection status can rapidly evolve in response to the selective environments imposed by different host plants. This selection differential may be a sufficient explanation for the global association between Arsenophonus‐infected cowpea aphids and black locust trees, without invoking additional assortative mechanisms. Because the aphid and plant originate from different parts of the world, we further hypothesize that Arsenophonus infection may have acted as a preadaptation that has promoted functional specialization of infected aphids on a novel host plant.
Pesticide residues identification by impedance time‐sequence spectrum of enzyme inhibition on multilayer paper‐based microfluidic chip
Authors: Yang Ning , Zhou Xu , Yu Defei , Jiao Siying , Han Xue , Zhang Suliang , Yin Hang , Mao Hanping
Published: September 2020

Different organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) normally vary in the level of toxicity to human health, but common electrochemical identification methods usually require complex electrode fabrication processes and high detection cost. To overcome these problems, a pesticide residues identification method based on multilayer paper‐based microfluidic chip was proposed. The microfluidic chip integrates the enzyme inhibition and a label‐free screen‐printed carbon electrode (SPCE). Three different pesticides were selected as study objects, respectively, avermectin, phoxim, dimethoate. This chip realizes on‐chip identification via analyzing impedance time‐sequence spectrum data aroused by the enzyme inhibition during the 15 min period. A classification model based on principal component analysis (PCA) and support vector machines (SVMs) was established to evaluate these data. Furthermore, the real‐world sample (lettuce) was tested to verify the feasibility of the proposed detection method. The results showed that the classification accuracy was achieved around 93% in multiple experiments. Therefore, the method has good stability and specificity in rapid identification of different pesticides.

Practical Applications

Identification of pesticide types is essential to human health, for this, impedance time‐sequence spectrum data aroused by the enzyme inhibition during the 15 min period was used to establish a classification model to identity different types of pesticides. In this article, multilayer paper‐based microfluidic chip and a label‐free screen‐printed carbon electrode (SPCE) was proposed without complicated operation steps and expensive cost, which provide a basis for establishment of the rapid pesticide discriminator.
Revisiting the proteolytic processing of cell adhesion molecule L1
Authors: Kleene Ralf , Lutz David , Loers Gabriele , Bork Ute , Borgmeyer Uwe , Hermans‐Borgmeyer Irm , Schachner Melitta
Published: September 2020

The important functions of cell adhesion molecule L1 in the nervous system depend on diverse proteolytic enzymes which generate different L1 fragments. It has been reported that cleavage in the third fibronectin type III (FNIII) homologous domain generates the fragments L1‐80 and L1‐140, while cleavage in the first FNIII domain yields the fragments L1‐70 and L1‐135. These results raised questions concerning the L1 cleavage sites. We thus generated gene‐edited mice expressing L1 with mutations of the cleavage sites either in the first or third FNIII domain. By immunoprecipitations and immunoblot analyses using brain homogenates and different L1 antibodies, we show that L1‐70 and L1‐135 are generated in wild‐type mice, but not or only to a low extent in L1 mutant mice. L1‐80 and L1‐140 were not detected in wild‐type or mutant mice. Mass spectrometry confirmed the results from immunoprecipitations and immunoblot analyses. Based on these observations, we propose that L1‐70 and L1‐135 are the predominant fragments in the mouse nervous system and that the third FNIII domain is decisive for generating these fragments. Treatment of cultured cerebellar neurons with trypsin or plasmin, which were both proposed to generate L1‐80 and L1‐140 by cleaving in the third FNIII domain, showed by immunoprecipitations and immunoblot analyses that both proteases lead to the generation of L1‐70 and L1‐135, but not L1‐80 and L1‐140. We discuss previous observations on the basis of our new results and propose a novel view on the molecular features that render previous and present observations compatible.

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The influence of psychological response and security sense on pregnancy stress during the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019: A mediating model
Authors: Zheng Qing‐Xiang , Jiang Xiu‐Min , Lin Yan , Liu Gui‐Hua , Lin Yu‐Ping , Kang Yu‐Lan , Liu Xiu‐Wu
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To observe the psychological status of pregnant women during COVID‐19 pandemic, and to test a hypothetical model that estimates the influence of psychological response to COVID‐19 and security sense on pregnancy stress.

Background

COVID‐19 advanced rapidly and then spread worldwide. Pregnant women were more susceptible to the COVID‐19 infection. Furthermore, it is not clear whether this infection will increase the risk of congenital monstrosity, foetal growth restriction, premature delivery or cause other long‐term adverse effects.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A total of 331 pregnant women participated in this study. And this research adhered to the STROBE guideline. The psychological questionnaire for emergent events of public health, pregnancy stress scale and security questionnaire were used to collect data. The hypothetical path model was tested using the SPSS version 25.0 software and AMOS version 26.0 software.

Results

Fear and depression were the most common psychological responses among pregnant women during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The hypothesis model of this study fitted the data well, and the results showed that psychological response positively affected pregnancy stress, while security sense negatively affected pregnancy stress; security sense mediated between psychological response and pregnancy stress.

Conclusion

Nurses and midwives can help reduce the stress in pregnant women by alleviating their psychological response to the COVID‐19 pandemic and by improving their security sense.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is essential for the health staff to build trust with pregnant women and their families, and communicate accurate information to them. Nurses should promptly conduct a psychological response evaluation and psychological guidance for pregnant women to alleviate their fears and hypochondria related to COVID‐19.
An examination of life insurance policy surrender and loan activity
Authors: Cole Cassandra R. , Fier Stephen G.
Published: September 2020

Extant literature has explored policyowner decision‐making as it relates to both life insurance policy surrender and borrowing activity. However, researchers have not yet examined why individuals may select one option over the other. In this study, we investigate common hypotheses related to policy surrender and loan activity using approaches which allow us to examine the two options jointly while also accounting for the multidimensional nature of the decision‐making process. We offer evidence consistent with the emergency fund, alternative funds, and policy replacement hypotheses as they relate to the decision to either surrender a policy or take out a policy loan and find that differential effects exist between the two options. In particular, our findings suggest that households tend to surrender their cash value policies when longer‐term financial needs arise while temporary needs are more likely addressed with loans which keep the policy in force, each consistent with rational household decision‐making.
The value of values: shared decision‐making in person‐centered, value‐based oral health care
Authors: Allen Matthew
Published: September 2020

In order to provide care that is truly person‐centered, dental practitioners must incorporate the informed preferences of our patients into clinical treatment decisions. Shared decision making provides the necessary framework to accomplish this goal, especially in an era of value‐based care.
Family Physician Burnout Does Not Differ With Rurality
Authors: Ward Zachary D. , Morgan Zachary J. , Peterson Lars E.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Burnout affects about half of family physicians (FPs). Minimal research exists which examines the impact of urban and rural practice settings on FP burnout. In this study, we examined whether rural practice is associated with FP burnout.

Methods

Data from the 2017 and 2018 American Board of Family Medicine Family Medicine Certification examination registration questionnaire were used. We limited our sample to FPs in continuity care in the United States. The questionnaire is a mandatory component of registration, resulting in a 100% response rate. Burnout was measured via 2 questions validated against the Maslach Burnout Inventory. We used logistic regression to determine associations between burnout and rural location, controlling for practice and personal characteristics.

Findings

Of the FPs surveyed, 2,740 met our inclusion criteria. Rural FPs were older, more likely to be male, and had a broader scope of practice than urban FPs. Rural FPs had a nonsignificantly higher burnout rate than urban FPs (45.1% vs 43.0%). Burnout was more common in younger and female FPs. We found no rural/urban differences between job satisfaction, practice environment, workload, and job stress; however, all of these characteristics were associated with burnout. In adjusted analyses, rural location was not associated with burnout (odds ratio = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.87‐1.52).

Conclusion

In a large national sample, we found no difference in burnout between rural and urban FPs. This suggests there is nothing unique about rural practice that predisposes to burnout and that a common pathway to reduce burnout may exist.
The importance of the Mexican taxa of Asteraceae in the family phylogeny
Authors: Rivera Patricia , Villaseñor José Luis , Terrazas Teresa , Panero José L.
Published: September 2020

Asteraceae is the largest plant family in México with about 417 genera and 3113 species, and with more than 60% of them being endemic. Phylogenetic relationships at subfamily and tribal levels have been previously resolved employing both nuclear and plastid molecular markers. However, Asteraceae species native to Mexico have been underrepresented in such phylogenies. To tackle this issue, the taxon sampling of this study included 90 Asteraceae species native to México, four species from the Caribbean, 119 previously sequenced species, and six outgroups. With this sampling, all the Asteraceae subfamilies and all of the tribes recognized to date are represented. The analyzed dataset consisted of eleven chloroplast markers (atpB, matK, ndhC, ndhD, ndhF, ndhI, ndhJ, ndhK, rbcL, trnL‐trnF, and 23S‐trnA). We present two phylogenetic reconstructions obtained by maximum likelihood and pseudocoalescent methods. Besides, we present a time‐calibrated phylogeny, which is used to infer the best configuration of diversification rate shifts. Our results show that Mexican species are distributed mainly in the subfamily Asteroideae (80 species), followed by Cichorioideae (6 species), Carduoideae (2 species), and Mutisioideae (2 species). Four net diversification rate shifts were found: One near the base of the tree and four within Asteroideae subfamily. Our extended sampling of the family with the representation of native species to Mexico allowed us to identify important events in the evolutionary history of the family.
“This is the worst that has happened to me in 86 years”: A qualitative study of the experiences of grandparents losing a grandchild due to a neurological or oncological disease
Authors: Flury Maria , Orellana‐Rios Claudia L. , Bergsträsser Eva , Becker Gerhild
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Pediatric palliative care focuses mainly on the children suffering from a life‐limiting disease, but always includes parents and siblings. However, grandparents are also often highly involved in caring for the child and require additional attention. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of grandparents during the end‐of‐life care and after the death of a grandchild.

Design and Methods

A qualitative approach using semi‐structured interviews was chosen. Fifteen grandparents of 10 children who had died of neurological or oncological diseases were interviewed. Participants were recruited among the families cared by the pediatric palliative care team of a children's hospital in northern Switzerland. Grandparents were interviewed at least 1 year after the death of the grandchild. The data was analyzed employing reconstructive interview analysis.

Results

Regardless of the child's diagnosis and circumstances of death, the participants described how the child's death had a major impact on them and their entire family. Grandparents felt obligated to support the family and constantly be a source of support for the parents. They bore a heavy psychological burden as they cared and mourned not only for their dying grandchild but also for their own daughter or son. Grandparents struggled with their ability to communicate about disease and death. They tried to process and make sense of their loss by remembering the deceased child.

Practice Implications

These findings emphasize the importance of identifying and understanding grandparents' suffering. Pediatric palliative care teams can achieve this by actively making contact with grandparents, taking their concerns seriously and demonstrating appreciation for their role in supporting the family.
The effect of universal infant vaccination on the prevalence of hepatitis B immunity in adult solid organ transplant candidates
Authors: Koc Özgür M. , Kuypers Dirk , Dupont Lieven J , Vos Robin , Van Keer Jan M. , Van Cleemput Johan , Robaeys Geert , Oude Lashof Astrid , Kramer Matthijs , Verleden Geert , Verbeek Jef , Nevens Frederik
Published: September 2020

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) immunity is recommended to optimize outcomes after solid organ transplantation (SOT). This study assessed the prevalence and predictors of HBV immunity at the time patients were placed on transplant waiting list over a period from 1997 to 2019 in a low HBV endemic region.

Methods

Data were obtained from the University Hospitals Leuven transplant database. Minors and patients with past/current HBV infection were excluded. From 1986, Belgian patients are covered by the universal infant vaccination; therefore, birth cohort was stratified in those born ≥1986 vs <1986.

Results

The study population consisted of 3297 SOT candidates. HBV immunity rate was superior in renal transplant candidates (55.3%), and this number was 21.5%, 15.4% and 16.8% for liver, cardiac and pulmonary transplant candidates, respectively, P < .001. Among liver transplant candidates, HBV immunity rate was 14.8% in decompensated cirrhotic patients and 27.9% in those without advanced cirrhosis (P < .001). The overall immunity rate increased from 19.3% in period 1997‐2008 to 32.8% in 2009‐2019, P < .001. In multivariable analyses, younger age (odds ratio (OR) 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.97‐0.98, P < .001) and birth cohort ≥ 1986 (OR 95% CI: 1.18‐2.66, P = .006) were associated with increased HBV immunity.

Conclusion

An increase in HBV immunity was observed over a 20‐year period related to the introduction of universal infant HBV vaccination. Nevertheless, this study highlights the low overall HBV immunity at the time of listing for organ transplantation and points out the need of an increased awareness and vaccination strategy at an early disease stage.
The sulfur budget and sulfur isotopic composition of Martian regolith breccia NWA 7533
Authors: Lorand Jean‐Pierre , Labidi Jabrane , Rollion‐Bard Claire , Thomassot Emilie , Bellucci Jeremy J. , Whitehouse Martin , Nemchin Alexander , Humayun Munir , Farquhar James , Hewins Roger H. , Zanda Brigitte , Pont Sylvain
Published: September 2020

The sulfur isotope budget of Martian regolith breccia (NWA 7533) has been addressed from conventional fluorination bulk rock analyses and ion microprobe in situ analyses. The bulk rock analyses yield 865 ± 50 ppm S in agreement with LA‐ICP‐MS analyses. These new data support previous estimates of 80% S loss resulting from terrestrial weathering of NWA 7533 pyrite. Pyrite is by far the major S host. Apatite and Fe oxyhydroxides are negligible S carriers, as are the few tiny igneous pyrrhotite–pentlandite sulfide grains included in lithic clasts so far identified. A small nonzero Δ33S (−0.029 ± 0.010‰) signal is clearly resolved at the 2σ level in the bulk rock analyses, coupled with negative CDT‐normalized δ34S (−2.54 ± 0.10‰), and near‐zero Δ36S (0.002 ± 0.09‰). In situ analyses also yield negative Δ33S values (−0.05 to −0.30‰) with only a few positive Δ33S up to +0.38‰. The slight discrepancy compared to the bulk rock results is attributed to a possible sampling bias. The occurrence of mass‐independent fractionation (MIF) supports a model of NWA 7533 pyrite formation from surface sulfur that experienced photochemical reaction(s). The driving force that recycled crustal S in NWA 7533 lithologies—magmatic intrusions or impact‐induced heat—is presently unclear. However, in situ analyses also gave negative δ34S values (+1 to −5.8‰). Such negative values in the hydrothermal setting of NWA 7533 are reflective of hydrothermal sulfides precipitated from H2S/HS‐ aqueous fluid produced via open‐system thermochemical reduction of sulfates at high temperatures (>300 °C).
Shock compaction heating and collisional processes in the production of type 3 ordinary chondrites: Lessons from the (nearly) unique L3 chondrite melt breccia Northwest Africa 8709
Authors: Ruzicka Alex M. , Friedrich Jon M. , Hutson Melinda L. , Strasser Juliette W. , Macke Robert J. , Rivers Mark L. , Greenwood Richard C. , Ziegler Karen , Pugh Richard N.
Published: September 2020

Northwest Africa (NWA) 8709 is a rare example of a type 3 ordinary chondrite melt breccia and provides critical information for the shock compaction histories of chondrites. An L3 protolith for NWA 8709 is inferred on the basis of oxygen isotope composition, elemental composition, diverse mineral chemistry, and overall texture. NWA 8709 is among the most strongly shocked type 3 chondrites known, and experienced complete melting of the matrix and partial melting of chondrules. Unmelted phases underwent FeO reduction and partial homogenization, with reduction possibly occurring by reaction of olivine and low‐Ca pyroxene with an S‐bearing gas that was produced by vaporization. Chondrules and metal grains became foliated by uniaxial compaction, and during compression, chondrules and fragments became attached to form larger clumps. This process, and possibly also melt incorporation into chondrules to cause “inflation,” may have contributed to anomalously large chondrule sizes in NWA 8709. The melt breccia character is attributed to strong shock affecting a porous precursor. Data‐model comparisons suggest that a precursor with 23% porosity that was impacted by a 3 km/s projectile could have produced the meteorite. The rarity of other type 3 ordinary chondrite melt breccias implies that the immediate precursors to such chondrites were lower in porosity than the NWA 8709 precursor, or experienced weaker shocks. Altogether, the data imply a predominantly “quiet” dynamical environment to form most type 3 ordinary chondrites, with compaction occurring in a series of relatively weak shock events.
Argumentation, Adversariality, and Social Norms
Authors: Yap Audrey
Published: September 2020

Janice Moulton's “The Adversary Method: A Philosophical Paradigm” articulated several criticisms of the popular idea of philosophy as adversarial debate. Moulton criticizes it on epistemic grounds, arguing that philosophy's overreliance on adversarial debate is to the detriment of its goals. Some, notably Trudy Govier, have argued in favor of at least a minimal adversariality, governed by norms of respectful argumentation. This paper suggests that Govier's faith in these norms is misplaced, because it neglects the social circumstances of the arguers. While some authors have argued that politeness and aggression apply differently to those of different genders, this paper extends that analysis to social identities other than gender. In fact, given certain assumptions about the philosophy of language, engagement in polite adversarial debate may not even be possible for people occupying certain social locations.
MiR‐98‐5p promotes ischemia/reperfusion‐induced microvascular dysfunction by targeting NGF and is a potential biomarker for microvascular reperfusion
Authors: Hu Yisen , Xiong Jingjie , Wen Hong , Wei Heng , Zeng Xiaocong
Published: September 2020

Objective

This study examined the correlation between serum miR‐98‐5p levels and indices of microvascular reperfusion in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) after ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Additionally, we evaluated the mechanisms by which miR‐98‐5p promoted ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)‐induced injury in both cultured cell lines and an animal model.

Methods

Circulating miR‐98‐5p levels were measured and compared from 171 STEMI patients undergoing pPCI, who were divided into two groups: no‐reflow and reflow. The levels of miR‐98‐5p, nerve growth factor (NGF), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) were analyzed in cultured human coronary endothelial cells (HCECs) exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). The effects of antagomir‐98‐5p on myocardial I/R‐induced microvascular dysfunction in vivo were evaluated. Target gene expression and activity were assessed.

Results

Higher miR‐98‐5p levels were associated with compromised indices of microvascular reperfusion. In vitro experiments on HCECs showed that exposure to H/R significantly increased miR‐98‐5p levels. We identified NGF as a novel target of miR‐98‐5p. Further, antagomir‐98‐5p relieved microvascular dysfunction and enhanced the expression of NGF and TRPV1 in the rat myocardial I/R model.

Conclusions

MiR‐98‐5p promotes microvascular dysfunction by targeting the NGF‐TRPV1 axis. Serum miR‐98‐5p serves as a potential biomarker for microvascular reperfusion.
Revealing secrets of the enigmatic omega subunit of bacterial RNA polymerase
Authors: Kurkela Juha , Fredman Julia , Salminen Tiina A , Tyystjärvi Taina
Published: September 2020

The conserved omega (ω) subunit of RNA polymerase (RNAP) is the only nonessential subunit of bacterial RNAP core. The small ω subunit (7 kDa–11.5 kDa) contains three conserved α helices, and helices α2 and α3 contain five fully conserved amino acids of ω. Four conserved amino acids stabilize the correct folding of the ω subunit and one is located in the vicinity of the β′ subunit of RNAP. Otherwise ω shows high variation between bacterial taxa, and although the main interaction partner of ω is always β′, many interactions are taxon‐specific. ω‐less strains show pleiotropic phenotypes, and based on in vivo and in vitro results, a few roles for the ω subunits have been described. Interactions of the ω subunit with the β′ subunit are important for the RNAP core assembly and integrity. In addition, the ω subunit plays a role in promoter selection, as ω‐less RNAP cores recruit fewer primary σ factors and more alternative σ factors than intact RNAP cores in many species. Furthermore, the promoter selection of an ω‐less RNAP holoenzyme bearing the primary σ factor seems to differ from that of an intact RNAP holoenzyme.
Tip‐to‐base xylem conduit widening as an adaptation: causes, consequences, and empirical priorities
Authors: Olson Mark E. , Anfodillo Tommaso , Gleason Sean M. , McCulloh Katherine A.
Published: September 2020

In the stems of terrestrial vascular plants studied to date, the diameter of xylem water‐conducting conduits D widens predictably with distance from the stem tip L approximating D ∝ Lb, with b ≈ 0.2. Because conduit diameter is central for conductance, it is essential to understand the cause of this remarkably pervasive pattern. We give reason to suspect that tip‐to‐base conduit widening is an adaptation, favored by natural selection because widening helps minimize the increase in hydraulic resistance that would otherwise occur as an individual stem grows longer and conductive path length increases. Evidence consistent with adaptation includes optimality models that predict the 0.2 exponent. The fact that this prediction can be made with a simple model of a single capillary, omitting much biological detail, itself makes numerous important predictions, e.g. that pit resistance must scale isometrically with conduit resistance. The idea that tip‐to‐base conduit widening has a nonadaptive cause, with temperature, drought, or turgor limiting the conduit diameters that plants are able to produce, is less consistent with the data than an adaptive explanation. We identify empirical priorities for testing the cause of tip‐to‐base conduit widening and underscore the need to study plant hydraulic systems leaf to root as integrated wholes.