bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemiology of Mayaro virus in the Americas: A systematic review and key parameter estimates for outbreak modelling
Authors: Caicedo Edgar-Yaset , Charniga Kelly , Rueda Amanecer , Dorigatti Ilaria , Mendez Yardany , Hamlet Arran , Carrera Jean-Paul , Cucunubá Zulma M.
Published: December 2020

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an arbovirus that is endemic to tropical forests in Central and South America, particularly within the Amazon basin. In recent years, concern has increased regarding MAYV’s ability to invade urban areas and cause epidemics across the region. We conducted a systematic literature review to characterise the evolutionary history of MAYV, its transmission potential, and exposure patterns to the virus. We analysed data from the literature on MAYV infection to produce estimates of key epidemiological parameters, including the generation time and the basic reproduction number, R0. We also estimated the force-of-infection (FOI) in epidemic and endemic settings. Seventy-six publications met our inclusion criteria. Evidence of MAYV infection in humans, animals, or vectors was reported in 14 Latin American countries. Nine countries reported evidence of acute infection in humans confirmed by viral isolation or reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). We identified at least five MAYV outbreaks. Seroprevalence from population based cross-sectional studies ranged from 21% to 72%. The estimated mean generation time of MAYV was 15.2 days (95% CrI: 11.7-19.8) with a standard deviation of 6.3 days (95% CrI: 4.2-9.5). The per-capita risk of MAYV infection (FOI) ranged between 0.01 and 0.05 per year, producing R0 estimates between 1.1 and 2.9 in endemic settings. In an outbreak in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, R0 was estimated at 2.2 (95% CrI: 0.8-4.8). Although MAYV has been identified in urban vectors, there is not yet evidence of sustained urban transmission. MAYV’s enzootic cycle could become established in forested areas within cities similar to yellow fever virus.

Author summary

Each year, diseases that are transmitted by mosquitoes cause substantial deaths and disability across the world. We performed a systematic literature review of Mayaro virus (MAYV) and estimated key epidemiological parameters that can be used to improve future outbreak response. We estimated the generation time and basic reproduction number for a historical outbreak. Our results suggest that the force-of-infection of MAYV in endemic settings is low. We did not find evidence of substantial urban transmission of MAYV. Nevertheless, similarities between MAYV and yellow fever virus epidemiology suggest that MAYV could emerge in urban areas. Local transmission of MAYV has never been reported outside of Central and South America. Our results highlight the need to continue monitoring emerging arboviruses in the Americas.
Validation of the IMPEDE VTE Score for Prediction of Venous Thromboembolism in Multiple Myeloma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Covut Fahrettin , Ahmed Ramsha , Chawla Sanchit , Ricaurte Frank , Samaras Christy J. , Anwer Faiz , Mejia Garcia Alex V. , Angelini Dana E , Mazzoni Sandra , Faiman Beth , Valent Jason , Khouri Jack
Published: December 2020

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is highly prevalent in Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients, however a reliable VTE prediction tool in MM remains under study. The IMPEDE VTE score has recently emerged as a novel risk prediction tool for VTE in MM but needs external validation in different cohorts. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to validate this score. We reviewed 839 patients who were newly diagnosed with MM between 2010 and 2015 at Cleveland Clinic and included 575 patients in final analysis. The 6-month cumulative incidence of VTE among all patients was 10.7% (95% CI: 8.2 – 13.2) and the c-statistic of the IMPEDE VTE score to predict VTE within 6 months of treatment start was 0.68 (95% CI: 0.61 – 0.75). The 6-month cumulative incidence of VTE was 5.0% (95% CI: 2.1 – 7.9) in the low risk group, compared to 12.6% (95% CI: 8.9% – 16.4%) and 24.1% (95% CI: 12.2 – 36.1) in the intermediate and high risk groups (p<0.001 for both). In addition, a higher proportion of patients in the VTE cohort had ECOG performance status of ≥2 as compared to the no VTE cohort (33% vs. 16%, p=0.001). Other MM characteristics such as stage, immunoglobulin subtype, and cytogenetics were not found to be predictors of VTE. In summary, we have validated the IMPEDE VTE score in our patient cohort and our findings suggest that it can be utilized as a VTE risk stratification tool in prospective studies looking into investigating VTE prophylaxis strategies in MM patients.
Surprising Phenotypic Diversity of Cancer-associated mutations of Gly 34 in the Histone H3 tail
Authors: Lowe Brandon R. , Yadav Rajesh K. , Henry Ryan A. , Schreiner Patrick , Matsuda Atsushi , Fernandez Alfonso G. , Finkelstein David , Campbell Margaret , Kallappagoudar Satish , Jablonowski Carolyn M. , Andrews Andrew J. , Hiraoka Yasushi , Partridge Janet F.
Published: December 2020

Sequencing of cancer genomes has identified recurrent somatic mutations in histones, termed oncohistones, which are frequently poorly understood. Previously we showed that fission yeast expressing only the H3.3G34R mutant identified in aggressive pediatric glioma had reduced H3K36 trimethylation and acetylation, increased genomic instability and replicative stress, and defective homology-dependent DNA damage repair (Yadav et al., 2017). Here we show that surprisingly distinct phenotypes result from G34V (also in glioma) and G34W (giant cell tumors of bone) mutations, differentially affecting H3K36 modifications, subtelomeric silencing, genomic stability, sensitivity to irradiation, alkylating agents, hydroxyurea and influencing DNA repair. In cancer, only one of thirty alleles encoding H3 is mutated. Whilst co-expression of wild-type H3 rescues most G34 mutant phenotypes, G34R causes dominant hydroxyurea sensitivity and homologous recombination defects, and dominant subtelomeric silencing. Together, these studies demonstrate the complexity associated with different substitutions at even a single residue in H3 and highlight the utility of genetically tractable systems for their analysis.
Novel xylan degrading enzymes from polysaccharide utilizing loci ofPrevotella copriDSM18205
Authors: Linares-Pastén Javier A. , Hero Johan Sebastian , Pisa José Horacio , Teixeira Cristina , Nyman Margareta , Adlercreutz Patrick , Martinez M. Alejandra , Karlsson Eva Nordberg
Published: December 2020

Prevotella copriDSM18205 is a bacterium, classified under Bacteroidetes that can be found in the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The role ofP. copriin the GIT is unclear, and elevated numbers of the microbe have been reported both in dietary fiber-induced improvement in glucose metabolism but also in conjunction with certain inflammatory conditions. These findings raised our interest in investigating the possibility ofP. coprito grow on xylan, and identify the enzyme systems playing a role in digestion of xylan-based dietary fibers inP. copri, which currently are unexplored. Two xylan degrading polysaccharide utilizing loci (PUL10 and 15) were found in the genome, with three and eight GH-encoding genes, respectively. Three of the eight gene products were successfully produced inEscherichia coli: One monomeric two-domain extracellular enzyme from GH43 (subfamily 12, in PUL10, 60 kDa) and two dimeric single module enzymes from PUL15, one extracellular GH10 (41 kDa), and one intracellular GH43 subfamily 1 enzyme (37 kDa). The GH43_12 enzyme was hydrolysing arabinofuranose residues from different substrates, and a model of the 3D-structure revealed a single arabinose binding pocket. The GH10 (1) and GH43_1 are cleaving the xylan backbone. Hydrolysis products of GH10 (1) were DP2-4, and seven subsites (−3 to +4) were predicted in the 3D-model of the GH10 active site. GH43_1 mainly produced xylose (in line with its intracellular location). Based on our results we propose that in PUL15, GH10 (1) is an extracellular endo-1,4-β-xylanase, that hydrolyses mainly glucuronosylated xylan polymers to xylooligosaccharides (XOS); while, GH43_1 in the same PUL, is an intracellular β-xylosidase, catalysing complete hydrolysis of the XOS to xylose. In PUL10, the characterized GH43_12 is an arabinofuranosidase, with a role in degradation of arabinoxylan, catalysing removal of arabinose-residues on xylan polymers.
Improved Photocleavable Proteins with Faster and More Efficient Dissociation
Authors: Lu Xiaocen , Wen Yurong , Zhang Shuce , Zhang Wei , Chen Yilun , Shen Yi , Lemieux M. Joanne , Campbell Robert E.
Published: December 2020

The photocleavable protein (PhoCl) is a green-to-red photoconvertible fluorescent protein that, when illuminated with violet light, undergoes main chain cleavage followed by spontaneous dissociation of the resulting fragments. The first generation PhoCl (PhoCl1) exhibited a relative slow rate of dissociation, potentially limiting its utilities for optogenetic control of cell physiology. In this work, we report the X-ray crystal structures of the PhoCl1 green state, red state, and cleaved empty barrel. Using structure-guided engineering and directed evolution, we have developed PhoCl2c with higher contrast ratio and PhoCl2f with faster dissociation. We characterized the performance of these new variants as purified proteins and expressed in cultured cells. Our results demonstrate that PhoCl2 variants exhibit faster and more efficient dissociation, which should enable improved optogenetic manipulations of protein localization and protein-protein interactions in living cells.
Predictors of Physical and Mental Health in Healthcare Teams Working with COVID-19 patients: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Aguirre-Duarte Nelson , Øvretveit John , Kenealy Timothy
Published: December 2020

Introduction

As a result of the current pandemic (COVID-19), many clinical teams are exposed to stressful situations that may lead to physical and mental issues for clinical staff themselves (we exclude the effects of personal infection with the virus). Recent studies suggest some predictors could depend on context, notably country and the type of the health system.

Methods and Analysis

This protocol was follows using the PRISMA-ScR guideline (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews), which was revised and approved by the research team. This study aims to identify factors and evidence of the physical, behavioural and mental consequences of sustained clinical practice in a continuing pandemic. Our research seeks to fill this gap in the literature, and the results may suggest to governments, healthcare authorities and healthcare providers appropriate measures to mitigate risks to healthcare workers during a pandemic response.

Dissemination and ethics

The current research design is based on the use of publicly available information and does not require ethical approval. The findings will be disseminated in conferences. Results will be published and additionally shared with relevant local and national authorities.

Strengths and Limitations of the study

This will be the first scoping review to identify factors and evidence of the physical, behavioural and mental consequences of sustained clinical practice in a continuing pandemic with health impacts for clinical staff.

The search strategy includes six electronic databases with peer-reviewed literature, as well as a broad range of grey literature sources.

Although this study will not require a quality appraisal, which is consistent with the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley, the current study will formally assess the studies quality.

This scoping review study has been registered with Open Science Framework to enhance its transparency.

The search strategy proposed is broad, but the search strategy is limited to articles published in English, Spanish, Portuguese or Italian.
(2S,3′S,3a'R,5′R,7a'R)-5′-[(E)-5-(Furan-3-yl)-2-methylpent-1-en-1-yl]-3-hydroxy-3′,4,7′-trimethyl-1′,2′,3′,3a',5′,7a'-hexahydro-5H-spiro[furan-2,4′-inden]-5-one
Authors: Majer Thomas , Schollmeyer Dieter , Koch Pierre , Gross Harald
Published: December 2020

The title compound, ircinianin, C25H32O4, belongs to the sesterterpene tetronic acid compound family and was isolated from the marine sponge Ircinia wistarii. These chemical scaffolds are pharmacologically relevant, since they represent a new class of glycine receptor modulators. The furan ring makes a dihedral angle of 35.14 (12)° to the 4-hydroxy-3-methylfuran-2(5H)-one ring. The crystal packing is characterized by intermolecular O—H...O hydrogen bonds, which generate [010] chains.
On classification of (n + 6)-dimensional nilpotent n-Lie algebras of class 2 with n ≥ 4
Authors: Jamshidi Mehdi , Saeedi Farshid , Darabi Hamid
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the structure of nilpotent (n+6)-dimensional n-Lie algebras of class 2 when n≥4.

Design/methodology/approach

By dividing a nilpotent (n+6)-dimensional n-Lie algebra of class 2 by a central element, the authors arrive to a nilpotent (n+5) dimensional n-Lie algebra of class 2. Given that the authors have the structure of nilpotent (n+5)-dimensional n-Lie algebras of class 2, the authors have access to the structure of the desired algebras.

Findings

In this paper, for each n≥4, the authors have found 24 nilpotent (n+6) dimensional n-Lie algebras of class 2. Of these, 15 are non-split algebras and the nine remaining algebras are written as direct additions of n-Lie algebras of low-dimension and abelian n-Lie algebras.

Originality/value

This classification of n-Lie algebras provides a complete understanding of these algebras that are used in algebraic studies.
Plant protection practices: how do risk perception, subjective and objective knowledge influence the preference of German consumers
Authors: Lehberger Mira , Becker Christine
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify which plant protection practices consumers prefer and why. The authors focused on beneficial insects, genetically modified (GM) plants, synthetic chemical pesticides, biological plant protection, mechanical-physical plant protection as well as biotechnical plant protection. The authors studied the effects of the risk perception and both subjective and objective knowledge on preference.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected cross-sectional data from n = 1,223 people living in Germany. For this, the authors used an online panel and quoted participation after age, gender, income and region. The authors used multiple regression analyses and also explored moderation effects of knowledge on risk perception to explain participants' preferences.

Findings

The most preferred plant protection practice in the study sample was the application of beneficial insects. The authors found evidence that risk perception, as well as objective and subjective knowledge, can have a pivotal direct effect on preferences. Additionally, subjective as well as objective knowledge typically moderated the effect of risk perception, depending on the plant protection practice in focus. Overall, the authors found that levels of subjective and objective knowledge of plant protection practices were rather low among German participants.

Originality/value

While studies on consumer preferences for GM or organic food are abundant, preferences regarding other types of common plant protection practices are hardly investigated. To tackle this research gap, the authors focused on six different and common plant protection practices and compare results.
EntreCompEdu, a professional development framework for entrepreneurial education
Authors: Grigg Russell
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a new professional development framework (EntreCompEdu) that identifies the competencies educators need to promote entrepreneurial education in primary, secondary and vocational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper explores the relationships between the framework's various constructs to articulate its rationale and value. Its design was informed by literature review and critical feedback from an advisory group of European and national policymakers, university staff, teachers and education consultants. It is currently in a pilot stage.

Findings

The paper proposes a new model in the field resting on six pedagogical principles. These are translated into five areas of competence: entrepreneurial knowledge and understanding, planning and organization, teaching and training, assessment, and professional learning.

Research limitations/implications

This paper only describes the conceptual thinking and contents of EntreCompEdu based on a limited literature review. Empirical research is necessary to assess the impact of EntreCompEdu on teaching. There are implications for building a network to support educators' professional development.

Practical implications

EntreCompEdu and its training materials offer educators structure and guidance to develop their competences. These are available in open access format, viahttps://www.entrecompedu.eu. Participants will have access to a bank of effective teaching practices and support network across Europe.

Social implications

Collaboration is essential to effective entrepreneurial education, with EntreCompEdu facilitating a support network across Europe.

Originality/value

EntreCompEdu is an original response to a policy problem, namely the need for a professional development framework to support the implementation of EntreComp. It is timely given calls to pay further attention to teachers' professional development and widen the appeal of entrepreneurial education.
Criteria for selecting partner cities in a national-level resilience network
Authors: Elkhidir Elrasheid , Mannakkara Sandeeka , Wilkinson Suzanne
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish the factors affecting the selection of a suitable partner city for resilience building at the national level.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory sequential research was adopted using New Zealand as a case study. Data were collected through focus groups and semi-structured interviews and subsequently validated through an online survey.

Findings

The study confirmed that the criteria for selecting partner cities for collaboration and knowledge sharing on resilience were similarity of hazards, geographic proximity, city resources and priorities, resilience performance, city size and demographics, previous relationship, willingness to collaborate and similar industries.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper will help guide cities that are interested in developing national-level resilience partnerships through the process of selecting the most suitable partner cities.

Originality/value

Despite the existence of international intercity resilience networks, there is a lack of information on the criteria affecting the selection of suitable resilience partner cities at the national level. This paper addresses this gap and offers informed decision-making criteria for cities to consider.
Influence of tourists’ sociodemographic characteristics on their perception of destination personality and emotional experience of a city break destination
Authors: Šagovnović Ivana , Kovačić Sanja
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of tourists’ sociodemographic characteristics on their perception of destination personality and emotional experience on the example of the city break tourism destination.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine this relationship, survey research was conducted on a sample of 203 national and international tourists who visited Novi Sad, the second-largest city in Serbia.

Findings

Research results confirmed the role of travelers’ sociodemographic variables in shaping their emotional experience and destination personality perception. The findings pointed out significant divergences in the perception of emotional experience in the case of respondents’ education level, previous visits to the city and travel companion. On the other hand, the analysis showed that repeat visitors significantly differed from first-time visitors regarding destination personality perception. In addition, differences in both destination personality and emotional experience assessment were found between national and international city break travelers.

Originality/value

The current study is first to focus on the role of travelers’ sociodemographic variables in simultaneous modeling of their perception of destination personality and emotional experience within the city break destination context. Besides, results revealed some new influencing factors of both destination personality and emotional experience perception, thus contributing to the existing tourism literature. In addition, this paper offers useful practical implications for city break marketers to adapt promotional activities, more effectively present the desired brand personality of the city to different sociodemographic categories of tourists and sustain repeat tourists’ perception of Positive surprise.
A road traffic accidents prediction model for traffic service robot
Authors: Zhang Chaohui , Li Yijing , Li Tian
Published: December 2020

Purpose

In recent years, the demand for road traffic has continued to increase, but the casualties and economic losses caused by traffic accidents have also remained high. Therefore, the use of social service robots to manage, supervise and warn real-time traffic information has become an inevitable trend of traffic safety management.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to explore the inherent objective development law of road traffic accidents, in this paper, the factor analysis (FA) is used to explore the main influencing factors of traffic accidents, then the random forest algorithm is applied to build an FA–RF-based road traffic accident severity prediction model to predict two- and three-category accidents.

Findings

By comprehensively comparing the classification results of the two- and the three-category accident prediction, it also finds that due to the intersection between injuries and fatalities and the lack of necessarily external environmental information, the FA–RF model has a large degree of misjudgment for injuries and fatalities. Therefore, it is recommended to establish a real-time autonomous information communication mechanism between different kinds of social robots, which can improve the prediction of traffic accidents.

Originality/value

(1) A fusion model of FA–RF is considered to predict traffic accidents, which can be applied in traffic service robot. (2) It is recommended to establish a real-time autonomous information communication mechanism between different kinds of social robots, which can improve the prediction of traffic accidents.
On the motivational nature of authentic leadership practices: a latent profile analysis based on self-determination theory
Authors: Levesque-Côté Julie , Fernet Claude , Morin Alexandre J.S. , Austin Stéphanie
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Although one of the central premises of authentic leadership theory is that authentic leaders mobilize their followers, the underlying motivational mechanisms of this process remain poorly understood. Drawing on self-determination theory, this study aims to fill that gap by examining authentic leadership practices (ALP) as theoretical antecedents of employees' motivation profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

Latent profile analyses conducted on a sample of 501 employees revealed four profiles: self-determined, unmotivated, highly motivated and moderately motivated.

Findings

ALP were associated with a higher likelihood of membership into the most adaptive motivation profiles. Employees in these profiles displayed more optimal job functioning: higher organizational commitment and performance, and lower intentions to leave their organization.

Originality/value

These findings underscore the predictive power of autonomous motivation for employee functioning and provide new insights into how ALP can improve work motivation, and hence job functioning. Our results account not only for how ALP affects the complete range of behavioral regulations at work but also the different patterns in which these regulations combine within employees.
Does fiscal tightening (loosening) reduce public debt?
Authors: Abubakar Attahir Babaji
Published: December 2020

This study examined the effect of fiscal tightening and loosening on the public debt of sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries. To achieve this, the study employed a two‐step approach. In the first step, the effect of government primary balance on public debt was examined; while in the second step, the primary balance was disaggregated into its surplus and deficit components with the effect of each component on public debt examined. By utilising data covering a panel of 37 SSA countries for the period 2008 to 2017, the study employed the Panel System Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) model for analysis. Estimation results indicated that fiscal tightening (via government surpluses) produces a depressing effect on the stock of public debt while fiscal loosening increases the stock of public debt. Economic growth was also found to be effective in reducing public debt. The study cautions against protracted fiscal tightening due to its potential negative effect on economic growth and social welfare, thereby rendering it counterproductive.
Import Competition and Firm Markups in the Food Industry
Authors: Curzi Daniele , Garrone Maria , Olper Alessandro
Published: December 2020

This paper assesses the relationship between import competition and firm‐level markups by examining the imports of intermediate and final goods. Using a rich firm‐level dataset of French food companies from 2001 to 2013, we find that, on average, increased final goods import competition (intermediate inputs) is negatively (positively) associated with firm‐level markups. These results are consistent with the trade models that predict the pro‐competitive effects of trade and the incomplete cost pass‐through to prices. Importantly, the reduction in markups due to the pro‐competitive effect of trade tends to be counterbalanced by the increase in markups induced by incomplete pass‐through. Our empirical analysis uncovers considerable heterogeneity in the effects of output and input import competition on markups. Our results particularly reveal that firm size and industry market structure (i.e. concentration) are key determinants of how firm‐level markups respond to import competition.
Archaeometallurgical research on the manufacture of leadmingqifrom Nanyang in Chu state during the Warring States period
Authors: Chen D. , Qiao B. T. , Luo W. G.
Published: December 2020

Themingqiis the material manifestation of ancient Chinese burial rituals. As opposed to the prevalent bronze wares in the living world, leadmingqiwas one of the major wares for the netherworld. But research on leadmingqihas been quite sparse up to the present. In this paper, 11 Warring States period leadmingqifrom three Chu sites in Nanyang are taken as examples and analysed by metallurgical observations, scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) and multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS) methods. In terms of the manufacturing process, they were all cast in moulds and cooled slowly rather than quickly. Some regular insights are refined by comparison with all the other leadmingqicollected. The lead weapons are made of pure lead, while the lead axle caps are made with a Pb:Sn ratio of around 3:1. Smaller pieces of artefacts are in random ratios, presumably cast with leftover materials. In addition, the lead raw materials are supposed to be sourced locally. The leadmingqiunearthed in the same tomb are more likely to have similar isotopes, which may mean they derived from the same batch of products.
Random effects and extended generalized partial credit models
Authors: Hessen David J.
Published: December 2020

In this paper it is shown that under the random effects generalized partial credit model for the measurement of a single latent variable by a set of polytomously scored items, the joint marginal probability distribution of the item scores has a closed‐form expression in terms of item category location parameters, parameters that characterize the distribution of the latent variable in the subpopulation of examinees with a zero score on all items, and item‐scaling parameters. Due to this closed‐form expression, all parameters of the random effects generalized partial credit model can be estimated using marginal maximum likelihood estimation without assuming a particular distribution of the latent variable in the population of examinees and without using numerical integration. Also due to this closed‐form expression, new special cases of the random effects generalized partial credit model can be identified. In addition to these new special cases, a slightly more general model than the random effects generalized partial credit model is presented. This slightly more general model is called the extended generalized partial credit model. Attention is paid to maximum likelihood estimation of the parameters of the extended generalized partial credit model and to assessing the goodness of fit of the model using generalized likelihood ratio tests. Attention is also paid to person parameter estimation under the random effects generalized partial credit model. It is shown that expected a posteriori estimates can be obtained for all possible score patterns. A simulation study is carried out to show the usefulness of the proposed models compared to the standard models that assume normality of the latent variable in the population of examinees. In an empirical example, some of the procedures proposed are demonstrated.
Parental stress and children's school performance: Are locals doing better than rural‐to‐urban migrants in Beijing?
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Zhai Fuhua , Pei Fei , Gao Qin
Published: December 2020

This study provides the first empirical evidence on whether parental stress is associated with children's school performance (measured by academic performance and peer relations) for rural‐to‐urban migrants (n = 499) and local residents (n = 299) in Beijing, China. Results from regression analyses showed that children of local families systematically scored better than those of migrants on measures of school performance. Correlation between parental stress and academic performance was found among locals but not among migrant households. Further, although children's peer relations were negatively associated with parental stress among migrant families, the duration of their residence in Beijing did not moderate this association. This study probed the structural origins of stressors for migrant parents and discussed implications for community‐based social work services in urban China for migrant families.
Case of descending colon schwannoma diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration using an overtube
Authors: Akahoshi Kazuaki , Akahoshi Kazuya , Kubokawa Masaru
Published: December 2020

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Growth before birth: the relationship between placental weights and infant and maternal health in early twentieth‐century Barcelona†
Authors: Galofré‐Vilà Gregori , Harris Bernard
Published: December 2020

Although a number of writers have argued that birth weights have increased in different parts of the world over the last 150 years, others have disputed this. The absence of clear evidence of increasing birth weights contrasts with the picture provided by child and adult heights and raises profound questions about the measurement of changes in intrauterine health. This article uses newly discovered data from Barcelona's Provincial House to examine the extent to which placental weights, and the ratio of birth weight to placental weight, can help to fill this gap. We find some evidence to suggest that there was an inverse relationship between placental weights and male real wages in Barcelona between c. 1908 and 1920. We also show that both low placental weights and high placental weights were associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, after reviewing a large number of different studies, we do not find any clear evidence of an unequivocal trend in placental weights over time. Our results also have implications for our understanding of the impact of the First World War on the standard of living in non‐combatant countries and its long‐term effects on those who were born during the conflict.
Echolalia in patients with primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Ota Shoko , Kanno Shigenori , Morita Ayumi , Narita Wataru , Kawakami Nobuko , Kakinuma Kazuo , Saito Yumiko , Kobayashi Erena , Baba Toru , Iizuka Osamu , Nishio Yoshiyuki , Matsuda Minoru , Odagiri Hayato , Endo Keiko , Takanami Kentaro , Mori Etsuro , Suzuki Kyoko
Published: December 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine echolalia and its related symptoms and brain lesions in primary progressive aphasia (PPA).

Methods

Forty‐five patients with PPA were included: 19 nonfluent/agrammatic variant PPA (nfvPPA), 5 semantic variant PPA, 7 logopenic variant PPA, and 14 unclassified PPA patients. We detected echolalia in unstructured conversations. An evaluation of language function and the presence of parkinsonism, grasp reflex, imitation behaviour, and disinhibition were assessed. We also measured regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) using single‐photon emission computed tomography.

Results

Echolalia was observed in 12 nfvPPA and 2 unclassified PPA patients. All patients showed mitigated echolalia. We compared nfvPPA patients with echolalia (echolalia group) to those without echolalia (non‐echolalia group). The median age of the echolalia group was significantly lower than that of the non‐echolalia group, and the echolalia group showed a significantly worse auditory comprehension performance than the non‐echolalia group. In contrast, the performance of repetition tasks was not different between the two groups. The prevalence of imitation behaviour in the echolalia group was significantly higher than that in the non‐echolalia group. The rCBFs in the bilateral pre‐supplementary motor area and bilateral middle cingulate cortex in the echolalia group were significantly lower than those in the non‐echolalia group.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that echolalia is characteristic of nfvPPA patients with impaired comprehension. Reduced inhibition of the medial frontal cortex with release activity of the anterior perisylvian area account for the emergence of echolalia.
The Contribution of Empathy to the Adjustment of Military Veterans and Their Female Partners
Authors: Siegel Alana , Dekel Rachel , Svetlitzky Vlad
Published: December 2020

Objective

Empathy plays an important role in romantic relationships; and thus, this study examined the contribution of both Israeli male military veterans' and their female partners' cognitive and emotional empathy to both partners' adjustment defined as posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and functioning, comparing veterans who asked for mental health help and a comparison group of veterans who did not.

Method

Participants were 300 Israeli male veterans of the 2006 Israel–Lebanon War and their female partners, all of whom completed self‐report questionnaires.

Results

Results demonstrated significant differences between the models in the groups. Among the male veterans in the research group, higher levels of veterans' own emotional and cognitive empathy were associated with higher levels of their PTSS and lower levels of functioning. In the comparison group, females' Personal Distress and Fantasy subscales of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index were positively associated with their own PTSS, whereas the Empathic Concern subscale was negatively associated. Females' Perspective‐Taking served as a protective factor only for those in the research group and was negatively associated with females' PTSS. In each of the models, the cross effects (from one partner to the other) were limited.

Conclusion

The various facets of empathy and its dyadic nature appear to play a different role in the adjustment of each partner in military couples. The associations among the research group were stronger than in the comparison group.
Structural snapshot of the mitochondrial protein import gate
Authors: Araiso Yuhei , Imai Kenichiro , Endo Toshiya
Published: December 2020

The translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane (TOM) complex is the main entry gate for most mitochondrial proteins. The TOM complex is a multisubunit membrane protein complex consisting of a β‐barrel protein Tom40 and six α‐helical transmembrane (TM) proteins, receptor subunits Tom20, Tom22, and Tom70, and regulatory subunits Tom5, Tom6, and Tom7. Although nearly 30 years have passed since the main components of the TOM complex were identified and characterized, the structural details of the TOM complex remained poorly understood until recently. Thanks to the rapid development of the cryoelectron microscopy (EM) technology, high‐resolution structures of the yeast TOM complex have become available. The identified structures showed a symmetric dimer containing five different subunits including Tom22. Biochemical and mutational analyses based on the TOM complex structure revealed the presence of different translocation paths within the Tom40 import channel for different classes of translocating precursor proteins. Previous studies including our cross‐linking analyses indicated that the TOM complex in intact mitochondria is present as a mixture of the trimeric complex containing Tom22. Furthermore, the dimeric complex lacking Tom22, and the trimer and dimer may handle different sets of mitochondrial precursor proteins for translocation across the outer membrane. In this Structural Snapshot, we will discuss possible rearrangement of the subunit interactions upon dynamic conversion of the TOM complex between the different subunit assembly states, the Tom22‐containing core dimer and trimer.
Review of Obstetric Operative Intervention Rates
Authors: Foote Andrew J. , Giles Warwick B.
Published: December 2020

Abstract

The trends in obstetric operative intervention at a major teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia, were reviewed during the decade 1979–1989. While the caesarean section rate has increased by 36.4%, forceps deliveries have decreased. The normal delivery rate has remained constant at 67%.
Tetanic Uterine Contraction May Be a Cause of Persistent Fetal Bradycardia after Fetal Blood Sampling by Ultrasound‐Guided Cordocentesis
Authors: Yoon Bo Hyun , Kim Woo Jin , Eun Gil Sang , Kim Seung Hyup , Syn Hee Chul , Kim Syng Wook
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Persistent fetal bradycardia necessiating emergency cesarean section is uncommon but a serious complication of ultrasound‐guided cordocentesis. The cause of this complication, however, is not completely known. Reported here is a case of tetanic uterine contraction after fetal blood sampling via cordocentesis.
Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Investigation of New Membrane‐Associated Placental Tissue Proteins (MP2A, B, C, D, and E) in Gynecologic Neoplasms
Authors: Hirai Yasuo , Inaba Noriyuki , Takamizawa Hiroyoshi , Chen Jui‐Tung , Hasumi Katsuhiko , Masubuchi Kazumasa , Bohn Hans , Suemizu Hiroshi , Osamura Yoshiyuki , Watanabe Keiichi
Published: December 2020

Abstract

New membrane‐associated placental tissue proteins (MP2 A, B, C, D, and E) were investigated immunohistochemically by avidin‐biotin immunoperoxidase technique and immunoelectron microscopy in various gynecologic neoplasms and normal gynecologic tissues. MP2 A and MP2 B were not specific for malignant tumors. MP2 C was present in 67–100% of ovarian carcinomas, 100% of benign dermoid cysts, and 77% of endometrial carcinomas. Except for endocervical adenocarcinomas, MP2 D was hardly detectable in gynecologic malignancies. Although MP2 E was hardly detectable in benign gynecologic tumors, this protein was present in ovarian carcinomas, uterine squamous carcinomas, endocervical adenocarcinomas, and endometrial adenocarcinomas. These results suggest a possible clinical application of these MP2 proteins as a new tumor marker for gynecologic malignancies.
Vascular Wall Arachidonic Acid Metabolism and Fetal Growth in the Pregnant STZ‐Induced Diabetic Rat
Authors: Takeda Osamu , Kitagawa Michihiro
Published: December 2020

Abstract

In pregnant women with severe diabetes mellitus, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) may occur despite hyperglycemia. Uterine blood flow may be an important factor in this process. Using pregnant streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats (pregnant STZ‐diabetic rats), we evaluated functional and morphological changes in the endothelium, as well as platelet thromboxane A2 (TXA) production and their influence on uterine blood flow. Decreased basal endothelial prostacyclin (PGI2) production as well as significant attenuation of the production response to stimulus was noted, suggesting an impairment of PGI2 production. In the platelet, TXA2 production was augmented, leading to a hypercoagulable state. Decreased myometrial blood flow was documented. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed definite morphological abnormality of the endothelial cells, probably affecting the permeability to molecules, a major endothelial function. Based on these data, the endothelial derangements suggested by SEM and arachidonic acid metabolism alterations may affect fetal growth in the severe pregnant diabetic through alterations in uterine blood flow.
The influence of operating room nurses’ job stress on burnout and organizational commitment: The moderating effect of over‐commitment
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Lichuan , Li XueJing , Lu Qian
Published: December 2020

Aims

To determine job stress among Chinese operating room nurses, test the mediating effect of burnout and verify the moderating effect of over‐commitment between job stress and mental health.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A multistage sampling method was adopted. First, a random sampling method was used to select 30 tertiary hospitals in Beijing, after which 509 operating room nurses were selected by convenience sampling from March‐June 2017. Self‐administered questionnaires were used to evaluate job stress, burnout, and organizational commitment among participants. Multiple‐group path analysis was used to test the mediating effect and the moderating effect.

Results

Of all nurses, 70.3% were in a state of job stress, which had negative effects on organizational commitment mediated by emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. The result of multiple‐group path analysis showed that the path coefficients are different between the low and high groups of over‐commitment. When facing job stress, operating room nurses with low over‐commitment were more likely to have emotional exhaustion (β = 0.750 vs. 0.602), while those with high over‐commitment were more likely to have low organizational commitment (β = −0.641 vs. −0.594).

Conclusion

The job stress of operating room nurses in China was high. Burnout played a mediating role between job stress and organizational commitment. Over‐commitment played a moderating role in the relationship among job stress, burnout, and organizational commitment.

Impact

This study analysed the relationship among operating room nurses’ job stress, burnout, and organizational commitment. The findings provided confirmatory support on the mediated effect of burnout between job stress and organizational commitment and the moderation effect of over‐commitment. Different measures are needed to reduce job stress, as for easing burnout and improving organizational commitment among different groups of nurses.
Beyond Objectification: Understanding the Correlates and Consequences of Sexualization for Black and White Adolescent Girls
Authors: Grower Petal , Ward L. Monique , Rowley Stephanie
Published: December 2020

Although objectification theory posits negative consequences of self‐objectification for adolescent girls, few studies have tested how objectification and sexualization contribute to mental health for youth of color. Accordingly, the current study explores the relations among body surveillance, enjoyment of sexualization, and mental health for a sample of 473 Black and White adolescent girls (Mage = 15.21, SD = 1.43). As expected, body surveillance and enjoyment of sexualization were associated with various forms of diminished well‐being. Race moderated two of these links, with Black girls who reported higher levels of body surveillance also reporting higher levels of depression and hostility compared with their White peers. Future work should examine the implications of enjoyment of sexualization for youth of color.
Teledentistry applications for mitigating risk and balancing the clinical schedule
Authors: Suter Nathan
Published: December 2020

The upheaval of providers and their patients has led to many changes in the way people live and work. In addition to the changes in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines, there has been evidence of rapid adoption of telehealth services. In April of 2020, the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute released a report stating that 1 in 4 dentists nationally were utilizing teledentistry to perform limited evaluations. Many of these dentists are new to teledentistry, and unfortunately, direct‐to‐patient consultations yield limited clinical outcomes. The more traditional methods of using teledentistry have been extending the reach of dental care for over a decade, using an allied team member such as a dental hygienist or expanded‐function dental assistant. As dentistry adapts to this new environment, it is important that there be adequate awareness of the diverse uses of teledentistry to meet the needs of the population. This brief, outlines one dental clinic’s attempt at providing a broad use of teledentistry.
Dental caries management: A practical approach for your practice
Authors: Bruner Tess
Published: December 2020

Chronic disease management models in primary care have demonstrated significant benefits to the patient experience and patient health outcomes. In trying to prepare for the future, with or without COVID‐19 implications, dental providers and clinics are facing opportunities to add value, consider alternative payment models, and to incorporate risk stratification and population health management along with medical systems. However, as alternative payment models emerge in dentistry, stand‐alone dental clinics may face unique challenges in trying to prepare for the future while still providing patient care in the fee for service environment. This article focuses on a 6‐months pilot project of how implementing a comprehensive caries disease management care model, evaluating caries risk, and implementing risk stratification strategies can prepare dental offices for future payment models and inclusion in the greater health system. There are two overall goals for this pilot. First, applying a caries disease management protocol to every patient visit, regardless of reimbursement. Second, applying quality improvement (QI) principles to change how a dental office approaches care delivery. The Institute of Medicine defines quality in healthcare as a direct correlation between the level of improved health services and the desired health outcomes of individuals and populations