bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of new leptospiral antigens for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis: An approach using pan‐genomic analysis, reverse vaccinology and antigenic selection
Authors: Zilch Tiago J. , Lee Jen‐Jie , Bressan Gustavo C. , McDonough Sean P. , Mohammed Hussni O. , Divers Thomas J. , Chang Yung‐Fu
Published: November 2020

Background

The current gold standard diagnostic test for leptospirosis is the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), which has many drawbacks; therefore, the development of a better and easier serological test for leptospirosis is needed.

Objectives

To apply reverse vaccinology (RV) and antigenic selection on the assortment of leptospiral targets and evaluate their potential for use as reagents for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The antigenic selection parameters were: proteins with antigenicity score ≥0.5 (VaxiJen), at least one B cell epitope and size between 10 and 275 KDa. New leptospiral proteins were cloned, expressed and serologically screened against equine sera (n = 128) on a single analysis and comparative combinations. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp), accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. A BLAST with nucleotide and protein sequences was used to identify the serovar or species specificity.

Main limitations

This cross‐sectional analysis had three main limitations: (a) The equine sera used in these tests were limited to sera submitted to the Animal Health Diagnosis Center and were only tested against seven serovars; (b) MAT results were considered being ‘perfect’, and the highest titre presented was considered being the infecting serovar, which may not hold true; (c) The strains used to represent the serovars and the limited number of different serovars and species included in the genetic analysis, which leads to the possibility that these proteins might be present in different species or serovars that perhaps would be seroprevalent in another geographic region.

Conclusions

The new leptospiral antigens described in this research could increase the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA for detection of Leptospira exposure and the detection of leptospirosis in horses along with support from other clinical signs. Some of these new antigens might be used to improve the detection of infecting serovar.
Segmented pathways of educational mobility: English language schools, working holidays, and divergent prospects among South Korea's global youth
Authors: CHOI CAROLYN AREUM
Published: November 2020

Using participant‐observation and 58 in‐depth participant interviews, this study examines South Korean youth who undertake overseas English language acquisition across the Philippines, United States, New Zealand, and Australia. This research introduces a concept I call ‘segmented pathways of educational mobility’, which describes the multi‐dimensional and complex levels of stratification within regional educational mobility flows that reinforce existing class inequalities for many migrants. However, segmented pathways also reveal that while resource‐constrained youth understand that their migration choices are more limited, they seek to accrue alternative cultural resources across varied destinations to gain the experiences and credentials necessary to advance in the South Korean labour market. Despite increased opportunities for English study abroad via market liberalization, this research contends that it also produces more levels of stratification within and among youth migrants.
Digital humanities and East Asian studies in 2020
Authors: Vierthaler Paul
Published: November 2020

Although East Asian studies scholars have a long history of using technology to their advantage, starting in at least the 1970s, East Asian digital humanities lags behind digital humanities in other parts of the world. This gap is rapidly closing, and a variety of new resources, tools, and communities have developed in the last few years. At the same time, this progress has produced a remarkable flowering of research. This article provides a broad overview of some of the more recent and important trends in East Asian digital humanities. I discuss a variety of important datasets that include text corpora, geographic information, biographic data, images, and more. I also introduce a number of analytical tools, discuss community building efforts, and discuss some of the research that has emerged from this. Finally, I address efforts in digital humanities education, because although East Asian scholars are rapidly adopting digital tools, the field still faces a gap in knowledge driven by a lack of easily accessible training opportunities.
Influence of pressurised cryogenic nitrogen technology on Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) preservation during storage
Authors: Maujean Elvis , Desobry Stéphane , Gillet Guillaume , Poupard Nicolas , Desjardins‐Lavisse Isabelle , Desobry‐Banon Sylvie
Published: November 2020

In this study, preservation of spirulina using the new pressurised cryogenic nitrogen technology (PCN) was compared to classical methods used in laboratories and industry. Spirulina morphology was better preserved by PCN compared to unpressurised cryogeny and classical freezing at −20 °C that led to cells fragmentation. A 25% loss of Phycocyanin‐C content against 60% were measured after 98 days storage for 6‐Bar PCN process and frozen samples, respectively. The Total AntiOxidant Power (PAOT Liquid Technology®) was used for determination of total antioxidant and oxidant power of spirulina extracts. PAOT value of PCN samples was 50% higher than the frozen sample. From ABTS measurements on PCN spirulina fractions sonicated or not, it was suggested that pressurisation at 6 bars allowed a better preservation of free antioxidants (outside the cells) due to replacement of oxygen by nitrogen in the frozen beads. After dehydration, phycocyanin‐C content variation during storage at 20 °C and 33% RH showed higher loss for freeze‐dried spirulina treated at 0 compared to 6 Bars.
Independent external validation of a nomogram to define risk categories for a significant decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate after robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy
Authors: Bajalia Essa M , Myers Amanda A , Haehn Daniela A , Kahn Amanda E , Ball Colleen T , Thiel David D
Published: November 2020

Objective

To validate the Martini nomogram predicting the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate after robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy.

Methods

Estimated glomerular filtration rate of 406 patients from a single surgeon series was calculated before robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy and at postoperative intervals. To determine the risk group, we calculated the total score and corresponding risk of significant estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction at 15 months using the Martini nomogram. The primary outcome was a reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≥25% from preoperative levels between 1 and 12 months after surgery.

Results

The median length of follow up for this study was 12 months (interquartile range 6–12 months). Overall, 134 (33%) patients were in the low‐, 143 (35%) in the intermediate‐, 119 (29%) in the high‐ and 10 (2%) in the very high‐risk groups. The Kaplan–Meier estimates for the probability of significant estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction by 12 months after robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy was 12.9% in the low‐risk group, 24.0% in the intermediate‐risk group, 49.7% in the high‐risk group and 40.0% in the very high‐risk group. Harrell’s C‐index for discriminating between those with and without a significant reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate 1–12 months after robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy was 0.73 (95% confidence interval 0.68–0.78).

Conclusions

The risk groups proposed by the Martini nomogram are accurate in predicting those at higher risk for a >25% decline in postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate after robotic‐assisted partial nephrectomy at 12 months.
Musculoskeletal immune‐related adverse events with the use of checkpoint inhibitors in malignancy
Authors: Dey Abhishikta , Manolios Nicholas , Long Georgina V. , Carlino Matteo S. , Kefford Richard , Schrieber Leslie
Published: November 2020

Background

Immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of many malignancies. Along with their success, there have been inflammatory and immune‐related adverse events (irAE). There is a paucity of literature describing the Australian experience of rheumatic irAE.

Aims

To describe and characterise the Royal North Shore Hospital and Westmead Hospital cohort with rheumatic irAE.

Methods

This case series reports on 17 patients with advanced cancer treated at two sites in Sydney, Australia who were referred for rheumatological evaluation from 2013 to 2016. Data were collected retrospectively and inspected for clinical signs, duration of immunotherapy prior to onset of symptoms, management strategies and cancer outcomes.

Results

Patients presented with arthralgias, myalgias, periarticular and systemic symptoms. Onset of rheumatological symptoms was variable, with a median of 4 months (range 0.2–24) for monotherapy and 5.05 months (range 0.2–6.9) for combination. The predominant findings were of tenosynovitis (23%) and large joint involvement (65%). All patients were seronegative for RF and anti‐CCP. Most patients responded well to non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs or low‐dose prednisone (59%) and remained on immunotherapy (77%). The majority (76%) of patients experienced concomitant irAE in other organ systems. Sixty‐five percent of patients had complete response of their malignancy to immunotherapy.

Conclusion

Rheumatic irAE are heterogenous clinical entities, which require further evaluation into classification, patient susceptibility and response. From our study, there was no clear clinical pattern. The present case series supports that rheumatic irAE may be associated with tumour response. However, there is still limited experience in rheumatic irAE management and outcomes.
Inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress prevents high‐fat diet mediated atrial fibrosis and fibrillation
Authors: Zhang Yan , Yang Shuwen , Fu Jing , Liu Annan , Liu Deping , Cao Suyan
Published: November 2020

Obesity is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), which is the most common sustained arrhythmia with increased mortality and morbidity. High‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obesity is associated with the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). However, the role of ERS in HFD‐induced AF remains elusive. Human atrium samples were examined for the ERS activation test. C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups, including the control group, the HFD group, the 4‐phenylbutyric acid (4‐PBA) group, and the HFD + 4‐PBA group. At the age of 4 weeks, the HFD group and the HFD + 4‐PBA group were given HFD to construct the obesity model, while the other two groups were given a normal diet (ND). Transesophageal programmed electrical stimulation was conducted to evaluate the AF inducibility and duration. Atrial fibrosis and ERS activation were also investigated.We found that CHOP and GRP‐78 protein were significantly higher in overweight patients than the controls (both P < 0.05). AF inducibility and duration of the HFD group were significantly higher than the other groups (both P < 0.05), while there was no difference between those groups (P > 0.05). The mice of the HFD group had significantly higher collagen volume fraction (CVF%) than the other groups (P < 0.05). ERS marker protein of GRP78, p‐PERK, ATF6 and CHOP protein expression level was increased in the HFD group, which were significantly mitigated in the HFD + 4‐PBA group. In summary, HFD‐induced ERS activation facilitates atrial fibrosis and AF. The inhibition of ERS might alleviate atrial fibrosis and reduce the incidence of AF‐associated obesity.
Phenoscreening: a developmental approach to research domain criteria‐motivated sampling
Authors: Doyle Colleen M. , Lasch Carolyn , Vollman Elayne P. , Desjardins Christopher D. , Helwig Nathaniel E. , Jacob Suma , Wolff Jason J. , Elison Jed T.
Published: November 2020

Background

To advance early identification efforts, we must detect and characterize neurodevelopmental sequelae of risk among population‐based samples early in development. However, variability across the typical‐to‐atypical continuum and heterogeneity within and across early emerging psychiatric/neurodevelopmental disorders represent fundamental challenges to overcome. Identifying multidimensionally determined profiles of risk, agnostic to DSM categories, via data‐driven computational approaches represents an avenue to improve early identification of risk.

Methods

Factor mixture modeling (FMM) was used to identify subgroups and characterize phenotypic risk profiles, derived from multiple parent‐report measures of typical and atypical behaviors common to autism spectrum disorder, in a community‐based sample of 17‐ to 25‐month‐old toddlers (n = 1,570). To examine the utility of risk profile classification, a subsample of toddlers (n = 107) was assessed on a distal, independent outcome examining internalizing, externalizing, and dysregulation at approximately 30 months.

Results

FMM results identified five asymmetrically sized subgroups. The putative high‐ and moderate‐risk groups comprised 6% of the sample. Follow‐up analyses corroborated the utility of the risk profile classification; the high‐, moderate‐, and low‐risk groups were differentially stratified (i.e., HR > moderate‐risk > LR) on outcome measures and comparison of high‐ and low‐risk groups revealed large effect sizes for internalizing (d = 0.83), externalizing (d = 1.39), and dysregulation (d = 1.19).

Conclusions

This data‐driven approach yielded five subgroups of toddlers, the utility of which was corroborated by later outcomes. Data‐driven approaches, leveraging multiple developmentally appropriate dimensional RDoC constructs, hold promise for future efforts aimed toward early identification of at‐risk‐phenotypes for a variety of early emerging neurodevelopmental disorders.
Application of ohmic heating for the inactivation of microbiological hazards in food products
Authors: Shin Minjung , Kim Sang‐Soon , Kang Dong‐Hyun
Published: November 2020

Ohmic heating has long been used to inactivate pathogens in food products. Several research investigations on the use of ohmic heating technology in the inactivation of microbial hazards in food products are discussed in this review. These studies are discussed under the following sub‐headings: (a) inactivation of microbiological hazards, (b) in combination treatments with other sanitizing technologies, and (c) mathematical modeling, all of which are of long‐standing interest. In this review, we evaluate ohmic heating as a rapid and volumetric heating process that inactivates microbiological hazards in food products. We also examine ohmic heating‐based combination treatments as promising methods to maximize microbial inactivation efficacy and minimize the quality deterioration of food products. We first highlight the fact that most researchers had an interest in the inactivation of vegetative pathogens, whereas only a few focused on the inactivation of bacterial spores. In general, significantly higher treatment conditions were needed to inactivate bacterial spores (>95°C) than vegetative pathogens (>50°C). Studies on the inactivation of viral pathogens by ohmic heating are limited, and further research is needed in this field. In the first part of this review, the nonthermal effects of ohmic heating are also discussed, which is a popular topic in the food industry. Cumulatively, research suggests that that these nonthermal effects are dependent on the treatment conditions and the electrical conductivity of different food samples. Therefore, we suggest that focus should be on the thermal rather than the nonthermal effects of ohmic heating when considering the application of this technology to inactivate pathogens. Finally, we introduced combination technology based on ohmic heating and mathematical modeling, which are of interest recently.
Detecting Delirium: A Systematic Review of Identification Instruments for Non‐ICU Settings
Authors: Helfand Benjamin K. I. , D'Aquila Madeline L. , Tabloski Patricia , Erickson Kristen , Yue Jirong , Fong Tamara G. , Hshieh Tammy T. , Metzger Eran D. , Schmitt Eva M. , Boudreaux Edwin D. , Inouye Sharon K. , Jones Richard N.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Delirium manifests clinically in varying ways across settings. More than 40 instruments currently exist for characterizing the different manifestations of delirium. We evaluated all delirium identification instruments according to their psychometric properties and frequency of citation in published research.

DESIGN

We conducted the systematic review by searching Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane Library, Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science from January 1, 1974, to January 31, 2020, with the keywords “delirium” and “instruments,” along with their known synonyms. We selected only systematic reviews, meta‐analyses, or narrative literature reviews including multiple delirium identification instruments.

MEASUREMENTS

Two reviewers assessed the eligibility of articles and extracted data on all potential delirium identification instruments. Using the original publication on each instrument, the psychometric properties were examined using the Consensus‐based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) framework.

RESULTS

Of 2,542 articles identified, 75 met eligibility criteria, yielding 30 different delirium identification instruments. A count of citations was determined using Scopus for the original publication for each instrument. Each instrument underwent methodological quality review of psychometric properties using COSMIN definitions. An expert panel categorized key domains for delirium identification based on criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)‐III through DSM‐5. Four instruments were notable for having at least two of three of the following: citation count of 200 or more, strong validation methodology in their original publication, and fulfillment of DSM‐5 criteria. These were, alphabetically, Confusion Assessment Method, Delirium Observation Screening Scale, Delirium Rating Scale‐Revised‐98, and Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale.

CONCLUSION

Four commonly used and well‐validated instruments can be recommended for clinical and research use. An important area for future investigation is to harmonize these measures to compare and combine studies on delirium.
Case of suspected theobromine poisoning in dairy cattle
Authors: Klein Carmen , Feist Melanie , Knubben‐Schweizer Gabriela , Dobenecker Britta
Published: November 2020

High‐yielding dairy cows collapsed and died displaying signs of a disturbed central nervous system (muscle tremor, convulsion) and a considerably reduced body condition score. An intense diagnostic screening did not allow to confirm a definite diagnosis. Therefore, further analyses including an evaluation of feeds and feeding were initiated. The herd was fed a total mixed ration (TMR) based on corn and grass silage of moderate nutritive value supplemented with various amounts of chocolate chips. In retrospect, the amount of chocolate chips added to the respective TMR batches could not be quantified. These chips were purchased from a company producing bakery and chocolate products for human consumption and added to the silage and therefore to the TMR in order to increase the energy intake of the animals. Because the TMR, which was fed during the time of the incidence, was no longer available, a sample of a later batch of silage was examined. The amount of chocolate chips was quantified (0.44% per fresh matter), and a theobromine analysis was performed in the chocolate chips of the available batch (69.7 mg/100 g fresh matter). Because of the possible link between chocolate intake and observed signs, an immediate cessation of using the chocolate chips was recommended in addition to an optimisation of the TMR, that is an increase of the energy density. Even though the theobromine intake during the time of the incidence is unknown and information about toxicity of theobromine in ruminants is limited, we suspect that the feeding of chocolate in this case caused all signs including the sudden death of the cows. Further reasons are that no differential diagnoses were established and the problems at the farm stopped after removing the chocolate from the TMR.
Determining the therapeutic range for ribavirin in transplant recipients with chronic hepatitis E virus infection
Authors: Mulder Midas B. , de Man Robert A. , Kamar Nassim , Durmaz Gűlcan , de Bruijne Joep , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Izopet Jacques , Gandia Peggy , van der Eijk Annemiek A. , van Gelder Teun , Hesselink Dennis A. , de Winter Brenda C.M.
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to define the therapeutic range for ribavirin (RBV) in transplant recipients with chronic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. In this retrospective multicentre cohort study, data of adult transplant recipients with chronic HEV infection, who had been treated with RBV monotherapy between 01‐3‐2008 and 01‐08‐2018, were included. ROC curve analyses were performed, and the half‐maximal effective RBV concentration was calculated to determine a representative therapeutic range. In 96 patients, RBV monotherapy for a median of three months resulted in a sustained virologic response in 63.5% of the patients, while 88.5% of the patients developed anaemia. RBV plasma concentrations at steady state were significantly higher in clinical responders compared with clinical non‐responders: median 1.96 (IQR 1.81‐2.70) versus 0.49 (IQR 0.45‐0.73) mg/L, P = .0004. RBV caused a dose‐dependent haemoglobin reduction with higher RBV plasma concentrations resulting in more haemoglobin reduction. The therapeutic range for RBV for chronic HEV infection in transplant recipients ranges between 1.8 and 2.3 mg/L.
Cerebrospinal fluid lactate concentrations in dogs with seizure disorders
Authors: Mariani Christopher L. , Nye Carolyn J. , Ruterbories Laura , Tokarz Debra A. , Green Lauren , Lau Jeanie , Zidan Natalia , Early Peter J. , Muñana Karen R. , Olby Natasha J. , Lee Chun‐Sheng , Guevar Julien
Published: November 2020

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lactate concentrations increase after seizure activity in many human patients independent of the underlying disease process. The effect of seizure activity on CSF lactate concentration in dogs is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Cerebrospinal fluid lactate concentration is unaffected by seizure activity in dogs and is more dependent on the underlying disease process causing the seizures.

Animals

One‐hundred eighteen client‐owned dogs with seizure disorders.

Methods

Case series. Cerebrospinal fluid lactate concentration was determined using a commercially available lactate monitor. Seizure semiology, time from last seizure to CSF collection, number of seizures within the 72 hours preceding CSF collection, and clinical diagnosis were recorded.

Results

Dogs with focal seizures had higher CSF lactate concentrations than did those with generalized seizures (P= .03). No differences in lactate concentrations were found among dogs with single seizures, cluster seizures or status epilepticus (P= .12), among dogs with CSF collection at different time points after the last seizure activity (P= .39) or among dogs having different numbers of seizures within the 72 hours preceding CSF collection (P= .42). A significant difference (P= .001) was found in CSF lactate concentrations among diagnostic groups, and dogs with inflammatory and neoplastic disease had higher concentrations than did dogs with idiopathic or unknown epilepsy.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cerebrospinal fluid lactate concentration is minimally affected by seizure activity in dogs and increased concentrations are more likely associated with the underlying disease process.
Deficits of urothelial cell proliferation, cytoskeleton, and barrier function protein expressions in patients with recurrent and persistent urinary tract infections
Authors: Jhang Jia‐Fong , Lin Teng‐Yi , Ho Han‐Chen , Jiang Yuan‐Hong , Hsu Yung‐Hsiang , Birder Lori A. , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) is a common infectious disease in women. This study investigated the urothelial cell proliferation, the cytoskeleton, barrier proteins, and inflammatory protein expression in women with rUTIs.

Methods

Female patients with recurrent or persistent UTIs were recruited. Bladder mucosal specimens were investigated by Western blot and immunohistochemical staining for the urothelial cytoskeleton proteins cytokeratin 5 (CK5), CK14, and CK20; proteins involved in cellular proliferation, including CD34, sonic hedgehog (SHH), and tumor protein 63 (TP63); barrier proteins zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1) and E‐cadherin; inflammatory proteins p38 and tryptase; and proapoptotic proteins Bcl2‐associated agonist of cell death protein (BAD), Bcl2‐associated X protein (BAX), and caspase‐3. Women with stress urinary incontinence without bladder symptoms served as controls. Bladder specimens from 18 recurrent UTI patients with rUTIs and 12 persistent UTIs, and 17 controls were analyzed, and protein expressions were compared between the three groups.

Results

Cell proliferation protein expression for CD34, SHH, and TP63 was significantly lower in the urothelium of patients with rUTIs than in controls. Expression of CK5 increased, whereas CK20 decreased significantly in rUTIs compared with those of controls. Apoptotic proteins BAD, BAX, and caspase‐3 were significantly higher in patients with rUTIs. However, barrier proteins ZO‐1 and E‐cadherin, and tryptase were not significantly lower in patients with rUTIs.

Conclusion

Deficits in expression of proteins involved in urothelial cell proliferation, cytoskeleton, and barrier function were noted in patients with rUTIs. These urothelial deficits may be due to deficient proliferation and differentiation resulting in inadequate urothelial barrier function and further in rUTIs.
Successful management to prevent early graft loss due to Seventh‐day Syndrome after liver retransplantation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Matsuura Toshiharu , Kohashi Kenichi , Kawano Yuki , Takahashi Yoshiaki , Yoshimaru Koichiro , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Oda Yoshinao , Mori Masaki , Taguchi Tomoaki
Published: November 2020

Graft loss characterized by sudden deterioration after initial favorable recovery of the allograft function within the first week after liver transplantation was reported as “seventh‐day syndrome.” The outcome of seventh‐day syndrome is extremely poor, and its etiology and management are not still established. We herein reported a seventh‐day syndrome case who was successfully managed by immediate desensitization after liver retransplantation and reviewed by English literature. A 19‐year‐old woman who had underwent the first liver transplantation when she was 2‐year‐old. She developed graft failure due to chronic rejection and was on the waiting list for retransplantation. An evaluation of panel‐reactive antibody showed high positivity, but there were no preformed donor‐specific antibodies. Plasma exchange was performed one‐time just before retransplantation and the mean fluorescence intensity significantly decreased. The second liver was successfully transplanted, and post‐operative course was uneventful. However, on post‐operative day 5, her body temperature elevated and thereafter, her liver enzymes dramatically elevated. We immediately started a desensitization consisted of plasma exchange, intravenous immunoglobulin, and anti‐CD20 antibody. The peak level of AST and ALT was 5799 IU/L and 3960 IU/L, respectively. The pathological findings of liver biopsy revealed some central venous endotheliitis and massive centrilobular hemorrhagic hepatocellular necrosis. These findings were not typical for antibody‐mediated rejection, but the desensitization was effective and liver graft was successfully rescued. The only way to prevent early graft loss due to seventh‐day syndrome is thought to be an immediate decision to start intensive desensitization.
Educational justice
Authors: Culp Julian
Published: November 2020

Philosophical conceptions of educational justice are centered at the intersection of political philosophy and philosophy of education. They justify moral‐political rights to education and sometimes also determine who is responsible for their realization through which kinds of pedagogical practices or systemic educational reform. This article concentrates on contemporary conceptions of educational justice in primary and secondary education and highlights central practical implications that the various conceptions of educational justice have under non‐ideal circumstances. Section 2 explains the conceptions of fair and luck‐egalitarian equal educational opportunity, Section 3 the conception of educational priority for the least‐advantaged students, and Section 4 the conception of democratically adequate education. Finally, Section 5 presents a philosophical conception of global justice in school education. Section 6 concludes.
Sustainable Triple‐A Supply Chains
Authors: Erhun Feryal , Kraft Tim , Wijnsma Sytske
Published: November 2020

In his 2004 article, Professor Hau Lee argues that the best supply chains are not only fast and cost‐effective but also agile, adaptable, and aligned. The concept of triple‐A supply chains has been extensively studied in academic and trade publications and integrated into numerous operations and supply chain management curricula. It has also influenced the management approach of leaders around the world. Yet since the triple‐A concept was first developed, supply chains have become increasingly global, connected, and interdependent. The increased complexity of global supply chains has reduced much‐needed visibility, further complicating their management, while the growing connectivity and interdependence among different stakeholders have led to many unforeseen environmental and social issues. As a result, Professor Lee’s emphasis on triple‐A supply chains is even more relevant today. In light of these new challenges and demands, we revisit the original triple‐A definitions of agile, adaptable, and aligned, expanding these concepts for a more socially and environmentally conscientious world. We also discuss potential enablers of and barriers to sustainable triple‐A supply chains.
Reducing Affective Polarization: Warm Group Relations or Policy Compromise?
Authors: Huddy Leonie , Yair Omer
Published: November 2020

Hostility between rival political partisans, referred to as affective polarization, has increased in the United States over the last several decades generating considerable interest in its reduction. The current study examines two distinct sets of factors that potentially reduce affective polarization, drawn respectively from a group‐based and a policy‐based model of its origins. Specifically, we contrast the degree to which warm social relations and policy compromise reduce affective polarization. In two experimental studies (N = 937), respondents read a mock news story about an observed interaction between Chuck Schumer, Senate minority leader, and Mitch McConnell, Senate majority leader. The leaders either interact in a warm or hostile manner and independently compromise, or fail to compromise, on immigration matters. In both studies, warm leader relations reduced affective polarization whereas policy compromise did not. We consider the implications of these findings for the study of affective polarization and its reduction.
A Risk Assessment Method for Multi‐Hazard Coupling Disasters
Authors: He Zhichao , Weng Wenguo
Published: November 2020

Multi‐hazard coupling disasters, in which multiple hazards occur simultaneously and interact to compound the consequences, are a common phenomenon. The assessment of the individual risk in multi‐hazard coupling disasters faces several difficulties due to the nonlinear additivity of risks from multiple hazards. This article presents the Choquet integral multiple linear regression model as a method of overcoming the problems of nonlinear additivity. Using this method, the nonlinear additive individual risks of multi‐hazard coupling disasters can be superposed with the nonadditivity of the fuzzy measure during the Choquet integral and the nonlinearity of the Choquet integral itself. This method also takes into account the effects of magnification on the severity of disasters and the vulnerability of victims in multi‐hazard disasters. It provides the magnification coefficients to quantitatively calculate the risks of all disasters. To examine the efficacy of the risk‐assessment measure, this article uses as a case study the severe fire and explosion disaster that occurred in a port at Tianjin, China, in 2015. From this case study, it can be concluded that the composite individual risk of multi‐hazard coupling disasters is greater than that of the simple addition of the risk of each hazard. This finding indicates that multi‐hazard coupling disasters are more severe than disasters involving single hazards. Moreover, this risk‐assessment method provides guidance in preventing, estimating, and dealing with multi‐hazard coupling disasters. It can also provide solutions to complex risk‐analysis problems in fields, such as finance, economics, and information science.
The Effects of Health on the Extensive and Intensive Margins of Labour Supply
Authors: Cai Lixin
Published: November 2020

Using the first seven waves of the Understanding Society data, this study estimates the effects of health on the extensive and intensive margins of the labour supply of the UK workers. Earlier studies on the effects of health on labour supply tend to focus on a binary measure of labour force participation or early retirement. The results show that health affects both the margins of labour supply for both males and females. From the preferred model, the results indicate that the effects of health on both the margins of labour supply are larger for females than for males. Furthermore, the results show that while at the extensive margin there does not appear to be a difference in the effect of health between the old and the young for both genders, for males the effect of health on hours worked, conditional on being employed, is larger for the old than for the young, but for females the effect on hours worked is larger for the young than for the old. The results also show that inadequately exploiting the longitudinal features of panel data might have led to bias estimates.
Preparing for an Increased Need for Abortion Access in India during and after COVID‐19: Challenges and Strategies
Authors: Chandrasekaran Sruthi , Diamond‐Smith Nadia , Srinivasan Karthik , Dalvie Suchitra
Published: November 2020

Access to safe abortion is a reproductive rights and justice issue, and it is imperative that safe abortion access during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic is a reality for all. India imposed a lockdown in March 2020 to contain the spread of the pandemic. Limited mobility, lack of clarity about abortion as an essential service and abortion as a service permitted through telemedicine, shut down of services providing long‐acting and permanent methods of contraception, and changes to decision‐making about birthing and parenting during a pandemic are factors that may impact the demand for abortion during and after the lockdown. Shortage of raw materials and limited inter‐ and intra‐ state transport of drugs may result in breakages in the supply of medication abortion. Given that 73 percent of abortions in India in 2015 occurred outside of health facilities, the pandemic may have several implications on the need for evidence‐based information and quality abortion services, as well as if and how medication abortion is accessed in India, and what self‐managed abortion looks like in the COVID‐19 era. We discuss factors contributing to reduced access to abortion, changes in abortion need, and suggest strategies to respond to an increased demand for abortion in India.
Social policy responses to COVID‐19 in Canada and the United States: Explaining policy variations between two liberal welfare state regimes
Authors: Béland Daniel , Dinan Shannon , Rocco Philip , Waddan Alex
Published: November 2020

Canada and the United States are often grouped together as liberal welfare‐state regimes, with broadly similar levels of social spending. Yet, as the COVID‐19 pandemic reveals, the two countries engage in highly divergent approaches to social policymaking during a massive public health emergency. Drawing on evidence from the first 5 months of the pandemic, this article compares social policy measures taken by the United States and Canadian governments in response to COVID‐19. In general, we show that Canadian responses were both more rapid and comprehensive than those of the United States. This variation, we argue, can be explained by analysing the divergent political institutions, pre‐existing policy legacies, and variations in cross‐partisan consensus, which have all shaped national decision‐making in the middle of the crisis.
German in the Marketplace of Languages: Why Students of German and of Four Other Languages Say That They and Others Might Choose German
Authors: Chavez Monika
Published: November 2020

This study examined why current university learners of French, Spanish, Russian, and Japanese, and, for comparative purposes, actual university learners of German, believe that others and why they themselves would study German. Responses were compared against current motivation theories, narratives promoted by academic language programs, research in language and country branding, documents issued by professional organizations, and demographic backgrounds of the participating population. Results included the following: (1) The responses of German students were distinct, yet the other four groups also differed from each other, with varying degrees and types of inclination toward German study, (2) heritage was less likely to attract students than a lack of heritage was to discourage students, (3) academic programs in German were particularly likely to promote culture even as none of the learner groups considered culture to be a superior attractor, (4) affinity to the language was an important consideration for learners, and (5) learners differentiated between personal reasons and reasons that they attributed to others. This study suggests both inherent limits of and possible directions for growth in German enrollments, points out competing and sometimes contradicting narratives that learners face, and identifies gaps between recruitment efforts and clientele expectations.
Are B‐symptoms more reliable prognostic indicators than substage in canine nodal diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Škor Ondřej , Bicanová Ludmila , Wolfesberger Birgitt , Fuchs‐Baumgartinger Andrea , Ruetgen Barbara , Štěrbová Marie , Schwendenwein Ilse , Kleiter Miriam
Published: November 2020

In humans B‐symptoms refer to systemic symptoms of lymphoma such as fever, weight loss, and night sweats and influence the prognosis of patients. In canine lymphoma, substage B is used to describe any clinical sign observed. Aim of the retrospective study was to compare the prognostic value of substage B with B‐symptoms to predict treatment response and survival in canine nodal diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Affected dogs treated with CHOP chemotherapy between 2008 and 2019 were included. B‐symptoms were defined by weight loss greater than 10% of normal weight, fever and the occurrence of unexplained resting tachypnoea substituted human night sweats. Substage B was defined as any symptoms but lymphadenopathy. Fifty‐five cases were included. B‐symptoms were present in 20/55 (36%) and substage B in 40/55 (74%) patients. No significant associations between B‐symptoms or substage B and weight, sex, breed, WHO stage and lymphoma grade were found. Treatment response was negatively associated with both substage B (P = .02) and B‐symptoms (P = .001). B‐symptoms significantly decreased progression free survival (PFS) (95 vs 330 days, P = .001) and lymphoma specific survival (LSS) (160 vs 462 days, P = .001). Data showed that B‐symptoms might be a more reliable prognostic indicator than substage B in canine nodal diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Prospective studies assessing B‐symptoms in a larger cohort of patients and in other common lymphoma types are warranted. The abstract was presented at the fourth meeting of the European Canine Lymphoma Network Group in Lugano, 22 June 2019 and published in the proceeding of the meeting on the page 26.
Correlation between bispectral index value and modified Glasgow Coma Scale score in dogs with altered level of consciousness
Authors: Saenubol Phitchaya , Akatvipat Areerath , Pleumsamran Apisate , Chankrachang Siwaporn
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study aims to identify the correlation between bispectral index (BIS) value and modified Glasgow Coma Scale (MGCS) score in dogs with altered level of consciousness (ALOC).

Design

This prospective, observational, clinical study was conducted from February 2016 to March 2017, and follow‐up was conducted until the death of dogs or their discharge from the hospital.

Setting

This study was performed at the Small Animal Teaching Hospital.

Animals

A total of 31 client‐owned dogs (males, 20; females, 11) with ALOC and MGCS score <18 with no restrictions for age, breed, sex, and body weight were included. Dogs that received neuromuscular blocking agents before MGCS score evaluation were excluded.

Interventions

BIS values were measured using the Covidien BIS Loc 2 Channel OEM module and a pediatric 4 sensor with a bifrontal application pattern.

Measurements and Main Results

Minimal databases of initial neurological assessment, blood profiles, and chest and skull radiographs were developed. In addition, MGCS scores and BIS values were recorded. The mean BIS values for mild, moderate, and severe brain injuries were 89.14 ± 6.52, 77.21 ± 9.82, and 50.58 ± 27.04, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed a significantly positive relationship between BIS values and MGCS scores (r = 0.75; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The significant correlation observed between MGCS scores and BIS values in dogs with ALOC demonstrated the usefulness of BIS as an alternative to MGCS for monitoring consciousness in patients with ALOC caused by traumatic brain injury, encephalitis, etc.
Golden retriever pigmentary uveitis: Vision loss, risk factors for glaucoma, and effect of treatment on disease progression
Authors: Jost Haley E. , Townsend Wendy M. , Moore George E. , Liang Siqi
Published: November 2020

Objective

In previous reports, almost half of Golden Retrievers with Pigmentary Uveitis (GRPU) have lost vision in an eye within a year of diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the proportion of GRPU affected dogs with vision loss, risk factors for the development of glaucoma, and effect of treatment on disease progression.

Animals Studied

Client owned Golden Retrievers.

Procedures

Two complete ophthalmic examinations were performed at least 6 months apart. Visual status, presence of glaucoma, GRPU score, and treatment were recorded. A proportional odds (ordinal logistic) model was fitted to determine whether the use of topical steroidal or non‐steroidal (NSAID) ophthalmic preparations was associated with a change in GRPU scores.

Results

Twenty‐nine Golden Retrievers, 58 eyes, were included. One eye was enucleated after the first examination. On first examination, 57/58 (98.3%) eyes and 29/29 (100%) dogs were visual. At the second examination, 48/57 (84.2%) eyes and 25/29 (86.2%) dogs were visual. Vision loss in 7/9 (77.8%) eyes was secondary to glaucoma. Posterior synechia and fibrinous material in the anterior chamber were significant risk factors for the development of glaucoma (P < .001). There was no significant difference in the change in GRPU score between eyes receiving topical steroids and topical NSAIDs (P = .14). Time between examinations was a significant factor in disease progression (increased GRPU score;P = .016).

Conclusion

The number of eyes and dogs that retained vision was higher than previous reports. No topical treatment was superior in slowing disease progression. Golden Retriever Pigmentary Uveitis is a slowly progressive disease.
Blood transfusion activity in a general hospital during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Marín‐Mori Karen , González‐Gascón y Marín Isabel , Foncillas‐García María‐Ángeles , Muñoz‐Novas Carolina , Infante María , Churruca‐Sarasqueta Juan , Landete‐Hernández Elena , Bueno‐García Begoña , Duffort‐Falco Mercedes , Hernández‐Rivas José‐Ángel
Published: November 2020

Background

The COVID‐19 outbreak has affected almost all hospital departments, including transfusion services. However, the demand for transfusions in a general hospital designated to deal with COVID‐19 patients has not been analysed before.

Study Design and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate blood transfusion practices from 15 March to 14 April 2020 at Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor (Madrid, Spain). During this month, with few exceptions, the hospital became a ‘COVID‐19’ centre. In addition, transfusion rates during this time frame and the same period over the last 4 years were compared.

Results

From 15 March to 14 April 2020, only 254 blood components were transfused, resulting in a 49·3% reduction over the previous year. Interestingly, in critically ill patients, the red blood cell (RBC) transfusion/bed ratio significantly decreased during this period (0·92) compared to the same ratio over the past 4 years (2·70) (P = 0·02). Of note, 106 blood components (95 RBC; 11 platelet concentrates) were transfused to only 36 out of 1348 COVID‐19 patients (2·7%). The main reason for RBC transfusion in COVID‐19 patients was a previous underlying disease (44%) followed by bleeding (25%) and inflammatory anaemia (25%).

Conclusion

This is the first study to report a decrease in blood transfusions during the COVID‐19 pandemic in a general hospital and especially in the intensive care unit. The results of this study suggest that COVID‐19 does not generally induce transfusion requiring anaemia, being the main causes for transfusion in these patients underlying conditions or bleeding.
Aero Engine Concepts Beyond 2030: Part 2—The Free-Piston Composite Cycle Engine
Authors: Kaiser Sascha , Schmitz Oliver , Klingels Hermann
Published: November 2020

Recognizing the attention currently devoted to the environmental impact of aviation, this three-part publication series introduces two new aircraft propulsion concepts for the timeframe beyond 2030. This second part presents the free-piston composite cycle engine concept. It is composed of a gas turbine topped with a free-piston system. The latter is a self-powered gas generator in which the internal combustion process drives an integrated air compressor. Here, several free-piston engines replace the high-pressure core of the gas turbine. Through the ability to work at much higher temperatures and pressures, the overall system efficiency can be increased significantly, and fuel burn as well as CO2 emissions reduce. The proposed free-piston composite cycle engine design is described in detail, and the sources of thermodynamic benefits are stated. Concrete engineering solutions consider the implementation into an aircraft. The free-piston design enables lower weight and size compared to a crankshaft-bound piston engine, as no mechanical transmission and lubrication system is required. The absence of a crankshaft and connecting rods eliminates reactive forces, reduces mechanical losses, and allows higher mean piston velocities. Facilitated through air lubrication, higher cylinder temperatures are viable. The reduction of heat losses enables cooling of the piston-cylinder with core fluid. The use of a sequential combustion chamber can enhance operability and tailor the production of NOx in low-altitude operation. A discussion of emissions affecting the environment shows the potential to reduce the climate impact of aviation.