bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographical cline and inter‐seaside difference in cone characteristics related to climatic conditions of old planted Pinus thunbergii populations throughout Japan
Authors: Iwaizumi Masakazu G. , Matsunaga Koji , Iki Taiichi , Yamanobe Taro , Hirao Tomonori , Watanabe Atsushi
Published: December 2020

Although cone morphology has been mainly utilized for taxonomy or forestry purposes, characterization of the environmental factors that influence its variation is still insufficient. Major conifers distributed over diverse climatic conditions like the Japanese archipelago could show cone morphology variation among populations related to large differences in key influential factors such as temperature, snow, irradiance and sunshine. Geographical variation in cone characteristics (cone size, seed production, seed productivity per cone and seed size) was examined across the species distribution in 24 old planted Pinus thunbergii populations (479 trees) along two major seasides in Japan (Pacific Ocean side and Japan Sea side). Variance components of cone characteristics explained by seaside were at similar levels to those for populations nested within seasides. Populations on the Japan Sea side produced cones that had larger size (length and width), higher seed production (number of filled seeds per cone and seed mass per cone) and seed productivity per cone (seed‐to‐ovule ratio). Analysis of covariance showed that significant latitudinal clines observed in cone size and seed productivity per cone were mostly a result of inter‐seaside differences. Linear mixed model analysis detected that geographical variation in cone size, seed production and seed productivity per cone in the populations were affected significantly by low temperature, more snow, less solar irradiance and less sunshine time. Large cone sizes and high seed productivity per cone found in the populations on the Japan Sea side could be explained by a genetic or plastic response to maintain reproductive success.
Land expansion and growth in low‐ and middle‐income countries*
Authors: Barbier Edward B.
Published: December 2020

Over past decades, low and middle‐income countries have experienced considerable expansion of agricultural land, yet this effect on growth has not been examined The following paper shows that the Solow‐Swan growth model can be extended to the case whereby arable land is expanding, as originally suggested by Solow (1956). This extension indicates that land expansion boosts growth, and this effect increases with the relative share of land in income. An empirical analysis over 1990–2018 for 138 low and middle‐income countries supports this finding. The growth impact of land expansion over 1990–2018 varied significantly across the sample of countries depending on how much income was derived from land. This result explains why countries dependent on agriculture have engaged in extensive land expansion: it boosts overall growth. However, these growth benefits must be weighed against the considerable environmental costs of converting forests and other natural habitat to more agricultural land, such as increased carbon emissions, loss of ecosystem services and biodiversity, risk of disease, and impacts on local livelihoods.
Impact of In‐hospital and Outreach models for regional P.A.R.T.Y. Program participants
Authors: McLeod Janet , Ball Hayley , Gunn Anna , Howard Teresa , Fitzgerald Mark C , Cameron Peter A , Mitra Biswadev
Published: December 2020

Objective

This retrospective observational study aimed to compare the impact of the Prevent Alcohol and Risk‐Related Trauma Youth (P.A.R.T.Y.) Program when delivered as In‐hospital or Outreach models to rural and regional students.

Methods

The study population were consented participants from regional areas between 2013 and 2017 who completed pre‐programme, immediately post‐programme and 3–5 months post‐programme surveys. Responses from the metropolitan In‐hospital programme participants and regional Outreach programme participants were analysed within groups across the three time points. The primary outcome variable was a change in self‐reported perception of driving after drinking alcohol. Secondary outcome variables were designating a safe driver after drinking, perception of risk of injury if not wearing a seatbelt, risks of injury if undertaking physical risk‐taking activities and likelihood of the programme changing perceptions.

Results

There were 1314 participants invited to participate and 547 (42%) sets of complete surveys were received, of whom 296 (54%) were Outreach participants. Pre‐programme, a significantly lower proportion of Outreach participants reported ‘definitely not’ to driving after drinking (84% vs 91%), and perceived a ‘definite’ likelihood of sustaining injury if not wearing a seatbelt (57% vs 66%). Outreach participants displayed improvements in likelihood to drive after drinking alcohol immediately post‐programme and on follow up (P = 0.028). Responses to all other secondary outcome measures demonstrated some improvement.

Conclusions

Although demographically similar, baseline perceptions toward alcohol, risk‐taking and injury differed between groups. Improvements in perception were demonstrated across both models. These findings support P.A.R.T.Y. as an injury prevention initiative for regional youth.
Prostacyclin analog beraprost sodium efficacy in primary glomerular disease or nephrosclerosis: Analysis of the Japanese subgroup in CASSIOPEIR study
Authors: Kurumatani Hajimu , Okada Kiyonobu , Origasa Hideki , Fujita Toshiro , Isono Masanao , Nakamoto Hidetomo
Published: December 2020

We conducted a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase IIb/III study (CASSIOPEIR) using a renal composite endpoint (i.e., doubling of SCr or end‐stage renal disease) in seven Asian countries/region. CASSIOPEIR compared TRK‐100STP (120 μg and 240 μg) with placebo in patients with non‐diabetic CKD patients with primary glomerular disease or nephrosclerosis (n = 892). However, the superiority of TRK‐100STP over placebo was not observed. A prior phase II study on which the Phase IIb/III study design was based included only Japanese patients. We therefore evaluated TRK‐100STP efficacy and safety in a subgroup of Japanese patients using the CASSIOPEIR dataset. As the timing of treatment initiation is important in CKD, we conducted additional subgroup analyses based on the baseline serum creatinine (SCr) and eGFR. ITT analysis was performed in a Japanese subgroup (n = 339) in which the primary endpoint was the first occurrence of renal composite endpoint. Significant differences were observed for TRK‐100STP 240 μg vs. placebo (P = 0.0493; HR 0.69 [95% CI: 0.47, 1.00]), but no significant difference was observed between TRK‐100 120 μg and placebo (P = 0.3523; HR 0.85). More prominent improvement was observed with TRK‐100STP 240 μg vs. placebo for baseline SCr  < 3.0 mg/dL (P = 0.0031; HR 0.43); SCr < 3.5 mg/dL (P = 0.0237, HR 0.59); and eGFR ≥ 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 (P = 0.0339, HR0.67), respectively. No significant changes in urinary albumin/creatinine ratio and blood pressure were observed. TRK‐100STP was generally well tolerated and most adverse drug reactions were mild or moderate in severity. In conclusion, in the Japanese subgroup of CASSIOPEIR, TRK‐100STP 240 μg/day significantly improved the renal composite endpoint compared with placebo, with greater efficacy in subjects with SCr < 3.5 or eGFR ≥ 10 mL/min/1.73 m2.
A study on the morphoquantitative and cytological characteristics of the bulbar conjunctiva of the maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus; Illiger, 1815)
Authors: de Oliveira Garcia Débora , Estrela Giselli Capareli , Soares Roberta Teixeira Gomes , Paulino Daniel , Jorge Adriana Torrecilhas , Rodrigues Marcela Aldrovani , de Castro Sasahara Taís Harumi , dos Santos Honsho Cristiane
Published: December 2020

The maned wolf, Chrysocyon brachyurus, is a near‐threatened carnivore inhabiting the Brazilian Cerrado. Few studies have been conducted on this species, and even fewer have explored its ophthalmological characteristics. Vision is critical to wild canids; thus, this study aimed to provide a morphoquantitative description of the bulbar conjunctiva of the maned wolf using cytological and histological analyses. Ten healthy maned wolves from a conservational centre, including 4 females and 6 males aged 1–12 years (6.5 ± 2.8), were included in the study. The samples for cytological analysis were collected from the inferior conjunctival sac using a cytobrush, and conjunctival tissue was collected for histological analysis from the temporal canthus zone. The cytological samples were stained using the Papanicolaou method, and the histological sections were stained using haematoxylin and eosin, Periodic acid–Schiff, picrosirius red and Masson's trichrome stains. The cytological samples were studied for stain quality, and the different cell types were counted. Histological examination was used to determine tissue types in the conjunctiva and their proportions. Analyses revealed a stratified squamous epithelium with some goblet cells and eventual pigmentation in the basal layer. Loose connective tissue with the presence of some mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells was also observed. The epithelium of the maned wolf's bulbar conjunctiva resembles that of dogs and other carnivore species; furthermore, its physiological and pathological responses were similar to those of other carnivore species.
Development and validation of a frailty index based on data routinely collected across multiple domains in NSW hospitals
Authors: Lo Sarita Y. , Zhang Meggie , Hubbard Ruth E. , Gnjidic Danijela , Redston Mitchell R. , Hilmer Sarah N.
Published: December 2020

Objective(s)

To develop and validate a frailty index (FI) that covers multiple domains, using routine hospital data. To investigate the FI's validity, after excluding medication‐related items (FI‐ExMeds), for studies of frailty and polypharmacy.

Methods

A FI was derived from routine NSW hospital data following standard published guidance. In a development cohort (151 inpatients ≥ 70 years), the FI was correlated with the Reported Edmonton Frail Scale (REFS) using Pearson's R. Validity and distribution of FI and FI‐ExMeds, and correlation with each other, were evaluated in a validation cohort (999 inpatients ≥ 75 years).

Results

The mean FI for the development cohort was 0.27 (SD 0.09). The FI showed moderate linear correlation with the REFS (n = 148, R = 0.52, P < .001). In the validation cohort, mean FI (n = 993) and FI‐ExMeds (n = 990) were both 0.28 (SD 0.11). FI‐ExMeds showed high linear correlation with the FI (n = 990, R = 0.99, P < .001).

Conclusion

This multi‐domain FI is comparable to REFS, with adequate redundancy to exclude deficits for specific analyses.
Is Informed Trading Different Across Investor Types?*
Authors: Park Hyejin , Chung Kee H. , Kim In Joon
Published: December 2020

This study compares the extent of informed trading across investor types in the Korean stock market using intraday quote and trade data. We estimate for each stock the probability of information‐based trading (PIN) using trades that are initiated by foreign investors, domestic institutional investors, and local individual investors separately. The results show that the PIN values of foreign and domestic institutional investors are much higher than those of individual investors. Contrary to the belief of some market participants, however, we find that local institutional investors engage in more informed trading than foreign institutional investors.
Effects of competence information on perceptions of warmth
Authors: Chen Feifei , Guo Tieyuan
Published: December 2020

Competence (i.e., one’s knowledge, intelligence, and abilities) and warmth (i.e., one’s sociability, friendliness, and caring) are traditionally regarded as the two fundamental dimensions of social cognition. This study was aimed at examining how competence might influence perceived warmth. We hypothesised and found that compared to inept persons, competent ones were perceived as being more attractive, which made them being perceived as warmer (Studies 1–4). High competence increased warmth perception for those who were initially perceived as being cold (Study 2) whereas low competence decreased warmth perception of those who were initially perceived as being warm (Study 3). The effect of competence on perceived warmth was not simply a halo effect (Study 4). Thus, the studies provided converging evidence that competence fosters warmth perception.
Social functioning questionnaires of adolescents born preterm show average profiles and attenuated sex differences
Authors: Salomäki Susanna , Rautava Päivi , Junttila Niina , Huhtala Mira , Leppänen Marika H. , Nyman Anna , Koivisto Mari , Haataja Leena , Lehtonen Liisa , Korja Riikka ,   the PIPARI Study Group
Published: December 2020

Aim

Prematurity has been shown to affect social competence in children and adults. Our aim was to evaluate profiles of self‐reported social behaviours and loneliness in preterm‐ and term‐born adolescents.

Methods

Preterm (≤1500 g and, or, <32 gestational weeks)‐ and term‐born infants were recruited in Turku University Hospital from 2001 to 2006. The Multisource Assessment of Children's Social Competence Scale and the Peer Network and Dyadic Loneliness Scale were completed at the age of 11. Profiles of social competence and loneliness were labelled as low, average or high.

Results

A total of 172 preterm‐born and 134 term‐born adolescents returned the questionnaires. Most frequently, preterm adolescents reported a profile of average social competence and average levels of loneliness. Preterm‐born boys reported a profile of low social functioning less often (preterm‐born 36% vs. term‐born 54%), and preterm‐born girls reported a profile of high social functioning less frequently (preterm‐born 26% vs. term‐born 37%) than same‐sex controls. Sex differences in social functioning profiles were smaller in preterm than term‐born adolescents.

Conclusion

The majority of young adolescents born preterm reported a high or average social functioning profile irrespective of sex. Prematurity seems to level out differences between the sexes.
Prospectively ascertained mania and hypomania among young adults with child‐ and adolescent‐onset bipolar disorder
Authors: Hafeman Danella M. , Goldstein Tina R. , Strober Michael , Merranko John , Gill Mary Kay , Liao Fangzi , Diler Rasim S. , Ryan Neal D. , Goldstein Benjamin I. , Axelson David A. , Keller Martin B. , Hunt Jeffrey I. , Hower Heather , Weinstock Lauren M. , Yen Shirley , Birmaher Boris
Published: December 2020

Objectives

While adults with bipolar disorder (BD) often report symptoms starting in childhood, continuity of mania and/or hypomania (mania/hypomania) from childhood to adulthood has been questioned. Using longitudinal data from the Course and Outcome of Bipolar Youth (COBY) study, we assessed threshold mania/hypomania in young adults who manifested BD as youth. Methods: COBY is a naturalistic, longitudinal study of 446 youth with BD (84% recruited from outpatient clinics), 7–17 years old at intake, and over 11 years of follow‐up. Focusing on youth with BD‐I/II (n = 297), we examined adult mania/hypomania risk (>18 years old; mean 7.9 years of follow‐up) according to child (<13 years old) versus adolescent (13–17 years old) onset. We next used penalized regression to test demographic and clinical predictors of young adult mania/hypomania. Results: Most participants (64%) had child‐onset mania/hypomania, 57% of whom also experienced mania/hypomania in adolescence. Among those who experienced an episode in adolescence, over 40% also had mania/hypomania during adulthood; the risk did not differ according to child versus adolescent onset. In contrast, 7% with mania/hypomania in childhood, but not adolescence, experienced mania/hypomania in adulthood. Family history (of mania and suicide attempts) predicted mania/hypomania in young adulthood (p‐values <0.05); age of onset was not a significant predictor. Among participants with no mania/hypomania during adulthood, 53% (105/198) still experienced subthreshold manic episodes. Discussion: We find substantial continuity across developmental stage indicating that, in this carefully characterized sample, children who experience mania/hypomania—particularly those who also experience mania/hypomania in adolescence—are likely to experience mania/hypomania in young adulthood.
Early Cenozoic activated deformation in the Qilian Shan, northeastern Tibetan Plateau: Insights from detrital apatite fission‐track analysis
Authors: He Pengju , Song Chunhui , Wang Yadong , Wang Daichun , Chen Lihao , Meng Qingquan , Fang Xiaomin
Published: December 2020

The evolution of the tectonic deformation of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau (TP) in the Cenozoic is significant for understanding plateau growth during India‐Asia convergence. However, when deformation began and how it has developed in this pivotal region remain controversial. We focus on the temporal progress of Cenozoic deformation in the Qilian Shan, a major tectonic belt of the northeastern TP. In the present study, detrital apatite fission‐track (AFT) thermochronological analysis was performed on Oligocene‐Quaternary synorogenic sediments in the northern Qaidam Basin, where detritus is sourced from the Qilian Shan. Age components of buried but unannealed detrital AFT samples reveal two static peaks (i.e., peak ages that are consistent upsection) at ca. 60–50 Ma and ca. 40–36 Ma and a moving peak (i.e., peak ages that are younger upsection) with increased lag time during ca. 30–8 Ma. These new detrital AFT ages, integrated with the analysis of sedimentary provenance and data from previously published studies, indicate that Cenozoic tectonic deformation began in the Qilian Shan in the late Paleocene‐early Eocene. Furthermore, the Qilian Shan experienced a subsequent episodic deformation event in the late Eocene and the deformation or erosion of some terranes in the Qilian Shan decelerated during the Oligocene‐Miocene. Our results suggest that the northeastern TP responded to the India‐Asia collision almost instantaneously.
Phenotypic spectrum of the RBM10‐mediated intellectual disability and congenital malformation syndrome beyond classic TARP syndrome features
Authors: Kumps Candy , D'haenens Erika , Vergult Sarah , Leus Jasmine , van Coster Rudy , Jansen Anna , Devriendt Koen , Oostra Anna , Vanakker Olivier M.
Published: December 2020

Pathogenic variants in the RBM10 gene cause a rare X‐linked disorder described as TARP (Talipes equinovarus, Atrial septal defect, Robin sequence, and Persistent left vena cava superior) syndrome. We report two novel patients with truncating RBM10 variants in view of the literature, presenting a total of 26 patients from 15 unrelated families. Our results illustrate the highly pleiotropic nature of RBM10 pathogenic variants, beyond the classic TARP syndrome features. Major clinical characteristics include severe developmental delay, failure to thrive, brain malformations, neurological symptoms, respiratory issues, and facial dysmorphism. Minor features are growth retardation, cardiac, gastrointestinal, limb, and skeletal abnormalities. Additional recurrent features include genital and renal abnormalities as well as hearing and visual impairment. Thus, RBM10 loss of function variants typically cause an intellectual disability and congenital malformation syndrome that requires assessment of multiple organ systems at diagnosis and for which provided clinical features might simplify diagnostic assessment. Furthermore, evidence for an RBM10‐related genotype–phenotype correlation is emerging, which can be important for prognosis.
Diagnosis of peri‐implantitis in the absence of baseline data: A diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Romandini Mario , Berglundh Jessica , Derks Jan , Sanz Mariano , Berglundh Tord
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of clinical and radiographic evaluations made at a single time point during follow‐up in identifying (a) a history of peri‐implant bone loss and (b) the presence of peri‐implantitis.

Material & Methods

427 patients provided with implant‐supported reconstructions 9 years earlier were evaluated clinically by Probing Pocket Depth, Bleeding or Suppuration on Probing (PPD, BoP & SoP) and radiographically. Bone levels were assessed relative to the most coronal point of the intra‐osseous part of the implant. A history of bone loss and diagnosis of peri‐implantitis was confirmed through baseline documentation (direct evidence). Diagnostic accuracy of radiographic bone levels at 9 years and clinical findings (indirect evidence/secondary case definition) in identifying a history of bone loss and peri‐implantitis were evaluated through correlation and multilevel regression analyses as well as receiver operating characteristic curves. Results were expressed as sensitivity/specificity and area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Bone levels observed at 9 years were highly accurate in identifying pronounced bone loss (>2 mm; AUC = 0.96; 95% CI 0.95–0.98). In the absence of baseline documentation, a secondary case definition based on the presence of BoP/SoP & bone level ≥ 1 mm (indirect evidence) provided the overall best diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.80; 95% CI 0.77–0.82) in identifying peri‐implantitis cases (direct evidence: BoP/SoP & bone loss > 0.5 mm). Moderate/severe peri‐implantitis (BoP/SoP & bone loss > 2 mm) was most accurately identified by the combination of BoP/SoP & bone level ≥ 2 mm (AUC = 0.93; 95% CI 0.91–0.96). Sensitivity of the secondary case definition suggested by the 2017 World Workshop of Periodontology (WWP) (BoP/SoP ≥ 1 site & bone level ≥ 3 mm & PPD ≥ 6 mm) was low.

Conclusions

The present results underline the importance of baseline documentation for the correct diagnosis of peri‐implantitis, especially in its early/incipient forms. The secondary case definition of peri‐implantitis suggested at the 2017 WWP demonstrated a high level of specificity but low sensitivity. Moderate/severe peri‐implantitis was most accurately identified by the combination of BoP/SoP & bone level ≥ 2 mm.
Long‐term Lower Extremity and Cardiovascular Complications after Simultaneous Pancreas‐Kidney Transplant
Authors: Amara Dominic , Braun Hillary J. , Shui Amy M. , Sorrentino Thomas , Ramirez Joel L. , Lin Joseph , Liu Iris H. , Mello Anna , Stock Peter G. , Hiramoto Jade S.
Published: December 2020

Lower extremity (LE) vascular disease and adverse cardiovascular events (ACEs) cause significant long‐term morbidity after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney (SPK) transplantation. This study's purpose was to describe the incidence of, and risk factors associated with, LE vascular complications and related ACEs following SPK. All SPKs performed at the authors’ institution from 2000 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was any LE vascular event, defined as LE endovascular intervention, open surgery, amputation, or invasive podiatry intervention. Secondary outcomes included post‐SPK ACE. A total of 363 patients were included, of whom 54 (14.9%) required at least one LE vascular intervention following SPK. Only 3 patients received pre‐SPK ankle brachial indices (ABIs). A history of peripheral artery disease (PAD) (HR 2.95, CI 1.4‐6.2) was a risk factor for post‐SPK LE vascular intervention even after adjustment for other factors. Fifty‐nine (16.3%) patients experienced an ACE in follow‐up. Requiring a LE intervention post‐SPK was associated with a subsequent ACE (HR 2.3, CI 1.2‐4.5). LE vascular and cardiovascular complications continue to be significant sources of morbidity for SPK patients, especially for patients with preexisting PAD. The highest risk patients may benefit from more intensive pre‐ and post‐SPK workup with ABIs and follow‐up with a vascular surgeon.
Gender‐Based EFL Writing Error Analysis Using Human and Computer‐Aided Approaches
Authors: Almusharraf Norah , Alotaibi Hind
Published: December 2020

Committing errors is expected in the development of language acquisition and learning; however, there is limited research that contributes to the literature on the effect of gender of English as a foreign language (EFL) writing. This study explored the gender differences in EFL students' writing using two approaches: human evaluation and computer‐aided error analysis (CEA). A corpus of 90,753 words was compiled from written samples collected from 197 participants (98 males and 99 females [freshmen or sophomores]) who were studying on a full‐time basis in a private institution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). By utilizing descriptive analysis and factorial two‐way ANOVA to detect counting errors, the findings reveal that the distinctions between male and female writings are nonsignificantly related to specific errors. Generally, the results exhibit noteworthy differences between the error types of the two male and female groups (more error frequency in the male‐written productions). The findings support educators and decision‐makers on implementing more learner‐conscious teaching approaches, enhancing male and female students' EFL writing skills. This study further suggests diagnostic information about challenging EFL writing areas, which can benefit educators and course designers in establishing effective teaching strategies and feedback approaches that should be implemented to promote EFL writing skills.
Visual and chemical signals provide different information in Polistes fuscatus wasps
Authors: Cely Ortiz Christian , Tibbetts Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2020

Most animals communicate using complex signals that convey information in multiple sensory modalities. Testing receiver responses to each signal in isolation as well as the composite signal provides crucial information about how receivers use and integrate information from complex signals. Polistes fuscatus wasps have facial patterns that are visual signals of individual identity and cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) that are used for nestmate recognition. Because wasps learn the unique facial pattern of each nestmate, they could potentially use both visual and chemical signals to assess group membership. We test whether P. fuscatus integrate information from visual and chemical signals when assessing conspecifics that approach their nest. We challenged wasps with conspecifics that had color patterns and CHCs of nestmates, color patterns of nestmates and CHCs of non‐nestmates, color patterns of non‐nestmates and CHCs of nestmates, and color patterns and CHCs of non‐nestmates. Wasps with non‐nestmate CHCs were treated aggressively, and wasps with nestmate CHCs were treated non‐aggressively, regardless of whether the wasps had nestmate or non‐nestmate color patterns. Therefore, wasps use chemical signals alone to identify nestmates versus non‐nestmates. Receivers do not integrate information from visual and chemical signals during assessment of potential intruders. Instead, visual and chemical signals convey different information and are used in different contexts.
Intraincisional medical grade honey decreases the prevalence of incisional infection in horses undergoing colic surgery: A prospective randomised controlled study
Authors: Gustafsson Kajsa , Tatz Amos J. , Slavin Roni A. , Sutton Gila A. , Dahan Roee , Ahmad Wiessam A. , Kelmer Gal
Published: December 2020

Background

Medical grade honey has previously been described as a prophylactic treatment for wounds. Local prophylactic treatment may be valuable in preventing post‐operative incisional infections in horses undergoing colic surgery but has not been evaluated.

Objectives

To establish whether medical grade honey gel, applied on the linea alba intraoperatively, decreases the prevalence of incisional infections in horses undergoing colic surgery with no associated adverse effects.

Study design

Prospective blinded randomised controlled clinical study.

Methods

Horses older than 4 months that underwent colic surgery between May 2017 and December 2018 and survived for >2 weeks were included in the study. Horses were allocated 1:1 to treatment or control by block randomisation. In the treatment group, following closure of the linea alba, medical grade honey gel (L‐Mesitran Soft®) was placed in the incision followed by apposition of subcutaneous tissue and skin. Information regarding the incision and post‐operative complications was obtained at five time points (24 hours, 48 hours, 5 days, 14 days and 3 months).

Results

Eighty‐nine horses were included in the study. No adverse effects associated with treatment were observed. Horses in the treatment group had a lower rate of incisional infection compared with the control group (8.2% vs. 32.5%, P = .02). The protective effect of MGH had a calculated adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 0.2 (95% CI:0.07‐0.8, P = .03). The number of patients required to receive treatment to prevent one case of incisional infection (NNEB) was 4.7. Risk factors associated with infection included: younger age (OR = 27, 95% CI: 2.3 to 306, P = .008) and diarrhoea 48 hours post‐operatively (OR = 20, 95% CI: 1.5 to 277, P = .02).

Main limitations

Follow‐up was performed by different veterinary surgeons, hence not completely uniform.

Conclusion

Local prophylactic treatment with medical grade honey gel in the abdominal incision during surgery is safe and may significantly decrease the prevalence of incisional infections in horses undergoing colic surgery.
Effects of increased temperature on arctic slimy sculpin Cottus cognatus is mediated by food availability: Implications for climate change
Authors: Pennock Casey A. , Budy Phaedra , Atkinson Carla L. , Barrett Nick
Published: December 2020

Lakes are vulnerable to climate change, and warming rates in the Arctic are faster than anywhere on Earth. Fishes are sensitive to changing temperatures, which directly control physiological processes. Food availability should partly dictate responses to climate change because energetic demands change with temperature, but few studies have simultaneously examined temperature and food availability.

We used a fully factorial experiment to test effects of food availability and temperature (7.6, 12.7, and 17.4°C; 50 days) on growth, consumption, respiration, and excretion, and effects of temperature (12 and 19.3°C; 27 days) on habitat use and growth of a common, but understudied, mid‐level consumer, slimy sculpin Cottus cognatus, in arctic lakes. We also used bioenergetics modelling to predict consumptive demand under future warming scenarios.

Growth rates were 3.4× higher at 12.7°C in high food compared to low food treatments, but the magnitude of differences depended on temperature. Within low food treatments, there was no statistical difference in growth rates among temperatures, suggesting food limitation. Consumption, respiration, and nitrogen excretion increased with temperature independent of food availability. Lower growth rates coincided with lower phosphorus excretion at the highest temperature, suggesting that fish selectively retained phosphorus at high temperatures and low food. In habitat choice experiments, fish were more likely to use the 12°C side of the tank, closely matching their optimal temperature. We predicted a 9% increase in consumption is required to maintain observed growth under a 4°C warming scenario.

These results highlight considering changes in food resources and other associated indirect effects (e.g. excretion) that accompany changing temperatures with climate change. Depending on how food webs respond to warming, fish may cope with predicted warming if density‐dependent feedback maintains population sizes.
Direct and indirect effects of heatwaves on a coral reef fishery
Authors: Brown Christopher J. , Mellin Camille , Edgar Graham J. , Campbell Max D. , Stuart‐Smith Rick D.
Published: December 2020

Marine heatwaves are increasing in frequency and intensity, and indirectly impacting coral reef fisheries through bleaching‐induced degradation of live coral habitats. Marine heatwaves also affect fish metabolism and catchability, but such direct effects of elevated temperatures on reef fisheries are largely unknown. We investigated direct and indirect effects of the devastating 2016 marine heatwave on the largest reef fishery operating along the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). We used a combination of fishery‐independent underwater census data on coral trout biomass (Plectropomus and Variola spp.) and catch‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) data from the commercial fishery to evaluate changes in the fishery resulting from the 2016 heatwave. The heatwave caused widespread, yet locally patchy, declines in coral cover, but we observed little effect of local coral loss on coral trout biomass. Instead, a pattern of decreasing biomass at northern sites and stable or increasing biomass at southern sites suggested a direct response of populations to the heatwave. Analysis of the fishery‐independent data and CPUE found that in‐water coral trout biomass estimates were positively related to CPUE, and that coral trout catch rates increased with warmer temperatures. Temperature effects on catch rates were consistent with the thermal affinities of the multiple species contributing to this fishery. Scaling‐up the effect of temperature on coral trout catch rates across the region suggests that GBR‐wide catches were 18% higher for a given level of effort during the heatwave year relative to catch rates under the mean temperatures in the preceding 6 years. These results highlight a potentially large effect of heatwaves on catch rates of reef fishes, independent of changes in reef habitats, that can add substantial uncertainty to estimates of stock trends inferred from fishery‐dependent (CPUE) data. Overestimation of CPUE could initiate declines in reef fisheries that are currently fully exploited, and threaten sustainable management of reef stocks.
Disrupting institutional erasure: Organizational exit, remembrance, value, and the need to matter
Authors: Grace Hendrix Katherine
Published: December 2020

Nearing the end of my career, this narrative reflects my thoughts as I enter unknown territory—exiting my postsecondary institution and entering retirement. After a lifetime of working, this piece lays bare my (a) thoughts about being a Black female professor continually fighting for credibility in an academic war zone during my career and (b) apprehension as I ponder the aging process and what the future holds. My desire is not only to be accorded faculty emeritus status but to be remembered as an asset. Don't we all want to be viewed as valuable? Consistent with the scholarship about psychological needs to matter, after retirement, I want to reflect on my career believing my colleagues remember the importance of my presence, their ability to depend on me, and how much better academic life would be where I still on board.
Strengthening health information librarianship in Africa through associations and partnerships: personal reflections in memory of Shane Godbolt
Authors: Gathoni Nasra , Ajuwon Grace
Published: December 2020

This paper describes the significant roles Shane Godbolt played in promoting partnerships and collaborations and strengthening the Association for Health Information and Libraries in Africa (AHILA). It presents the personal reflections of each author about Shane, the part she played in their professional and personal lives as well as Shane's vital support for AHILA and AHILA members during her lifetime.
Effect of high temperature on the mechanical properties of hierarchical porous cenosphere/geopolymer composite foams
Authors: Yan Shu , Zhang Fanyong , Feng Xue , Kong Jian , Wang Bo , Yang Jinlong
Published: December 2020

A hierarchical porous cenosphere/geopolymer composite foam (FHCs/KGP) was fabricated by the simultaneous incorporation of O2 pore from hydrogen peroxide and cenosphere filler addition. Effects of both H2O2 content and high‐temperature treatment on the microstructure, porosity and strength of porous FHCs/KGP foams were investigated systematically. The obtained FHCs/KGP foams showed typical amorphous structure and desirable porosity from 65 to 82%. The composites could crystallize in situ to FHCs/leucite foams above 1000℃. Compression strength of the FHCs/leucite foams showed a maximum value of 5 ± 0.3 MPa when treated at 1000°C. The improvement of mechanical properties for the composite foams was attributed to crack deflection, fractured microspheres and the good bond between the FHCs and matrix. This study could open opportunities to employ cellular foams as alternatives in structure and filtration applications.
The human natural anti‐αGal antibody targets common pathogens by broad‐spectrum polyreactivity
Authors: Bernth Jensen Jens Magnus , Skeldal Sune , Petersen Mikkel Steen , Møller Bjarne Kuno , Hoffmann Steen , Jensenius Jens Christian , Skov Sørensen Uffe B. , Thiel Steffen
Published: December 2020

Naturally occurring antibodies are abundant in human plasma, but their importance in the defence against bacterial pathogens is unclear. We studied the role of the most abundant of such antibodies, the antibody against terminal galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose (anti‐αGal), in the protection against pneumococcal infections (Streptococcus pneumonia). All known pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides lack terminal galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose, yet highly purified human anti‐αGal antibody of the IgG class reacted with 48 of 91 pneumococcal serotypes. Anti‐αGal was found to contain multiple antibody subsets that possess distinct specificities beyond their general reactivity with terminal galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose. These subsets in concert targeted a wide range of microbial polysaccharides. We found that anti‐αGal constituted up to 40% of the total antibody reactivity to pneumococci in normal human plasma, that anti‐αGal drives phagocytosis of pneumococci by human neutrophils and that the anti‐αGal level was twofold lower in patients prone to pneumococcal infections compared with controls. Moreover, during a 48‐year period in Denmark, the 48 anti‐αGal‐reactive serotypes caused fewer invasive pneumococcal infections (n = 10 927) than the 43 non‐reactive serotypes (n = 18 107), supporting protection on the population level. Our findings explain the broad‐spectrum pathogen reactivity of anti‐αGal and support that these naturally occurring polyreactive antibodies contribute significantly to human protective immunity.
Managerial discretion and shareholder capital at risk
Authors: Falkinger Josef , Habib Michel A.
Published: December 2020

Managerial investment decisions put shareholder capital at risk. Shareholders respond either (i) by preserving the manager's discretion to choose among projects but decreasing the power of his (her) incentives, thereby decreasing the manager's gains from choosing risky projects, or (ii) by imposing a constraint on the type of project that the manager can undertake. We show that capital exposure—the extent to which managerial decisions put shareholder capital at risk—plays a central role in favoring the imposition of a constraint over the granting of discretion. We extend our analysis to consider other determinants of the choice between discretion and constraint.
Unveiling the drivers of local dung beetle species richness in the Neotropics
Authors: Pessôa Marcelo Bruno , Alves‐Martins Fernanda , De Marco Júnior Paulo , Hortal Joaquín
Published: December 2020

Aim

Nearly 40 different hypotheses have been put forward to explain the latitudinal diversity gradient, implying that geographical variations of biodiversity may be the result of a complex array of factors affecting organisms in different ways. Our main goal was to identify the most important drivers of local dung beetle species richness in the Neotropics.

Location

Neotropics.

Taxon

Dung Beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae).

Methods

We used a multi‐model approach to identify which potential drivers correlate better with the variations in local dung beetle species richness. We surveyed published literature on dung beetle communities to extract information on species richness, abundance, type of bait, type of habitat and sampling effort (as hours/pitfall) for different localities, discarding sites with low sampling effort. We used environmental variables to account for six possible explanations of species richness gradients: productivity, water–energy, ambient energy, habitat heterogeneity, resource heterogeneity and seasonality, as well as spatial data to account for other geographically structured phenomena. We used mixed models—with abundance, ecoregion and bait type as random factors—to select the best model among the variables accounting for each explanation. Finally, we used structural equation models to assess which explanations are associated with variations in dung beetle diversity and how they interact.

Results

Resource heterogeneity was the best single correlate of dung beetle richness. However, the best multiple model comprises three different explanations: productivity, resource heterogeneity and other spatially structured factors. Structural equation models show that abundance is directly (positively) associated with richness, followed by primary productivity and soil variables (a proxy for environmental heterogeneity), together with mammal richness, (a proxy for resource heterogeneity).

Main conclusions

Several explanations need to be considered to account for Scarabaeinae local richness patterns. The diversity of dung beetle communities correlates with the interaction of water–energy dynamics and heterogeneity in both resources and habitats. However, while heterogeneity variables are directly associated with richness, energy relates with it through abundance, and water through resource diversity.
Automatically assessed P‐wave predicts cardiac events independently of left atrial enlargement in patients with cardiovascular risks: The Japan Morning Surge‐Home Blood Pressure Study
Authors: Yokota Ayako , Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Hoshide Satoshi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: December 2020

A prolonged P‐wave in electrocardiography (ECG) reflects atrial remodeling and predicts the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). The authors enrolled 810 subjects in the Japan Morning Surge Home Blood Pressure (J‐HOP) study who had ≥1 cardiovascular (CV) risk factor. The duration of P‐wave was automatically analyzed by standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram. Left atrial (LA) enlargement and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) were measured on echocardiography. The primary end points were fatal/nonfatal cardiac events: myocardial infarction, sudden death, and hospitalization for heart failure. The maximum P‐wave duration (Pmax) from the 12 leads was selected for analysis. The authors compared four prolonged P‐wave cutoffs (Pmax = 120, 130, 140, 150 ms) and cardiac events. LA diameter and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were significantly associated with Pmax (r = 0.08, P = .02 and r = 0.17, P < .001, respectively). When the cutoff level was Pmax 120 or 130 ms, prolonged P‐wave was not associated with cardiac events (P = .45 and P = .10), but when a prolonged P‐wave was defined as Pmax ≥ 140 ms (n = 50) or Pmax ≥ 150 ms (n = 19), the patients in those groups had significantly higher incidence of cardiac events than others (P < .001 and P = .03). A Cox proportional hazards model including age, gender, body mass index, smoking, regular drinker, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, office systolic blood pressure, heart rate, LA enlargement, and LVH revealed that prolonged P‐wave defined as Pmax ≥ 140 ms was independently associated with cardiac events (hazard ratio: 4.23; 95% confidence interval: 1.30–13.77; P = .02). In conclusion, the automatically assessed prolonged P‐wave was associated with cardiac events independently of LA enlargement and LVH in Japanese patients with CV risks.
Hypertension in a multi‐ethnic Asian population of Singapore
Authors: Chan Gek Cher , Teo Boon Wee , Tay Jam Chin , Chen Chen‐Huan , Cheng Hao‐Min , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Turana Yuda , Kario Kazuomi , Chia Yook‐Chin , Tsoi Kelvin , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Nailes Jennifer ,   the HOPE Asia Network
Published: December 2020

The prevalence of hypertension varies by country and region, but it remains a leading yet modifiable risk factor of cardiovascular disease. There are many factors that contribute to the burden of hypertension in Asia, a region with diverse ethnicity. It has been shown that sociodemographic variability is related to ethnic differences, thereby emphasizing the importance of hypertension screening and educating at‐risk or vulnerable groups. In this review, we describe the ethnic differences in genetic variants, dietary choice, and lifestyle habits, as well as its association with sociodemographic differences, hypertension awareness, and treatment control.
Efficacy of focused radiofrequency with ultrasound in body contouring: A study of 64 patients
Authors: Hugul Huray , Oba Muazzez Cigdem , Kutlubay Zekayi
Published: December 2020

Background

Energy‐based devices are increasingly used for noninvasive body contouring. Our aim was to investigate the clinical efficacy of combined radiofrequency and ultrasound device for reduction in body circumference in various body parts.

Aims

The aim of our study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of combined focused radiofrequency and ultrasound device for reduction in body circumference in various body parts. We aimed to report objective measurements in terms of circumference reduction and patient satisfaction scores.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data of 64 patients who were treated with focused radiofrequency and ultrasound device during August 2017‐December 2019. All patients had received 4 sessions at one‐week interval. Body circumference measurements were done before treatment and one month after the last session. Patients were also asked to score their satisfaction with the result of treatment on a scale of 1 to 5.

Results

Abdomen was treated in 40 patients, thighs in 18 patients, and arms in 7 patients. One patient had received treatments to both abdomen and thighs. Circumference measurements in all body parts differed significantly between baseline and one month after the 4th session. Patients were satisfied with the result of treatment (score: 4.48 ± 0.66). No adverse events were noted.

Conclusions

Focused radiofrequency and ultrasound combination is a safe and effective treatment modality for body contouring. Patients should be informed about moderate degrees of improvement.
Phylogeography of the widespread fern Lemmaphyllum in East Asia: species differentiation and population dynamics in response to change in climate and geography
Authors: Wei Xue‐Ping , Zhang Xian‐Chun
Published: December 2020

Past climatic oscillations and complex geodynamic processes had tremendous effects on the current distributions of species in East Asia. Previous studies have revealed that spermatophytes experienced different demographic histories and survived in multiple refuges. However, very few studies involving ferns have been conducted over a large geographical area like East Asia. The monophyletic epiphytic fern genus Lemmaphyllum, which is composed of four species, is widespread in East Asia and offers a good model for exploring how geoclimatic oscillations influence the diversification and demographic history of fern species. We studied the phylogeography of Lemmaphyllum based on 115 populations using plastid sequences and ecological niche modeling. A total of 91 haplotypes were found in Lemmaphyllum. Molecular clock estimation revealed that speciation coincided with the three phases of the Qingzang Movement at beginning of the third uplift of Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau. The “Tanaka‐Kaiyong Line” demarcated lineages within L. carnosum. The split of the mainland and island lineages of L. rostratum and L. carnosum var. microphyllum may have resulted from ancestral isolation whereby land‐bridges acted as a “barrier” rather than as a “corridor” between mainland and island lineages. Multiple glacial refuges such as Sichuan Basin, Jinggangshan region, YGG region, HDM region, and the islands of the China East Sea during the LGM were revealed. The entities of Lemmaphyllum experienced species‐specific demographic histories in response to the Pleistocene climate change. The case study of epiphytic ferns may provide evidences for understanding the migration of evergreen broad‐leaf forest under climate oscillation.