bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative coronary angiography and fractional flow reserve measurement with dobutamine infusion in supra-arterial myotomy for a myocardial bridge: a case report
Authors: Yamauchi Shuichiro , Hayashida Akihiro , Hirohata Atsushi , Sakaguchi Taichi
Published: July 2021

Background

A myocardial bridge (MB) is a congenital coronary anomaly, wherein the epicardial coronary artery tunnels through the myocardial band. Treatment is indicated when clinical symptoms occur, and β-blockers are the first choice of treatment. Symptomatic patients refractory to medical therapy are considered for other options, including stent placement, coronary artery bypass grafting, or surgical supra-arterial myotomy. Supra-arterial myotomy is effective; however, the symptoms might persist if myocardial resection is inadequately performed.

Case summary

We encountered a patient experiencing exertional chest pain. Coronary angiography revealed a MB at the mid-left anterior descending artery with systolic compression. The patient’s fractional flow reserves (FFRs) were 0.93 at rest and 0.72 with intravenous administration of 50 µg/kg/min dobutamine. The symptoms were refractory to drugs, and supra-arterial myotomy was performed with intraoperative coronary artery angiography, which revealed the milking effect of the residual myocardium; therefore, additional myocardial resection was performed. Postoperative coronary artery angiography showed no systolic compression, and the postoperative FFRs were 0.88 at rest and 0.92 with intravenous administration of dobutamine 50 µg/kg/min.

Discussion

Although surgical supra-arterial myotomy is safe and effective, inadequate myocardial resection might cause symptom recurrence. Intraoperative coronary artery angiography during the surgery can indicate whether additional resection is required. Objective assessment of ischaemia might be useful in cases with a MB, which can cause asymptomatic myocardial ischaemia and sudden cardiac death. FFRs before surgery can help in evaluating the need for surgery and for confirming the therapeutic effect and subsequent treatment.
Rapid Genomic Evolution Drives the Diversification of Male Reproductive Genes in Dung Beetles
Authors: Mrinalini  , Koh Cho Yeow , Puniamoorthy Nalini
Published: July 2021

The molecular basis for the evolution of novel phenotypes is a central question in evolutionary biology. In recent years, dung beetles have emerged as models for novel trait evolution as they possess distinct precopulatory traits such as sexually dimorphic horns on their head and thorax. Here, we use functional and evolutionary genomics to investigate the origins and the evolution of postcopulatory reproductive traits in male dung beetles. Male ejaculates that underlie postcopulatory sexual selection are excellent candidates to study novel trait evolution as they are complex, fast evolving, and often highly divergent in insects. We assemble de novo transcriptomes of male accessory glands and testes of a widespread dung beetle, Catharsius molossus, and we perform an evolutionary analysis of closely and distantly related insect genomes. Our results show there is rapid innovation at the genomic level even among closely related dung beetles. Genomic expansion and contraction drive the divergence of male reproductive traits and their functions. The birth of scores of completely novel reproductive genes is reinforced by the recruitment of these genes for high expression in male reproductive tissues, especially in the accessory glands. We find that male accessory glands of C. molossus are specialized for secretory function and express female, egg, and embryo-related genes as well as serine protease inhibitors, whilst the testes are specialized for spermatogenesis and sperm function. Finally, we touch upon putative functions of these evolutionary novelties using structure-function analysis as these proteins bear no homology to any other known proteins.
Retail Religion: Hinduism for a Neoliberal Age
Authors: Moodie Deonnie
Published: July 2021

A new discourse that both indigenizes and sacralizes mass consumption and corporate labor has emerged alongside the opening of India’s economy at the turn of the twenty-first century. To illustrate this argument, I take as my case study the so-named “retail religion” that leaders within India’s retail giant, Future Group, produced in the early 2000s to make buying more and working harder quintessentially Indian and specifically Hindu traits. Whereas the enchantment of corporate capitalism often draws on and produces notions of the spiritual, this religion rejects the universal resonances of that term. It employs mythology instead, referring to the epic and purāṇic genres of Hindu texts upon which it relies to produce the Future Group’s Indianness. As such, retail religion promises its adherents that their engagement in the neoliberal economic order does not signify their subjugation, but instead their freedom to truly be themselves.
Cancer Antigen 15-3/Mucin 1 Levels in CCTG MA.32: A Breast Cancer Randomized Trial of Metformin vs Placebo
Authors: Goodwin Pamela J , Dowling Ryan J O , Ennis Marguerite , Chen Bingshu E , Parulekar Wendy R , Shepherd Lois E , Gelmon Karen A , Whelan Timothy J , Ligibel Jennifer A , Hershman Dawn L , Mayer Ingrid A , Hobday Timothy J , Rastogi Priya , Rabaglio-Poretti Manuela , Lemieux Julie , Thompson Alastair M , Rea Daniel W , Stambolic Vuk
Published: July 2021

Background

Circulating levels of cancer antigen (CA) 15–3, a tumor marker and regulator of cellular metabolism, were reduced by metformin in a nonrandomized neoadjuvant study. We examined the effects of metformin (vs placebo) on CA 15–3 in participants of MA.32, a phase III randomized trial in early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

A total of 3649 patients with T1-3, N0-3, M0 breast cancer were randomly assigned; pretreatment and 6-month on-treatment fasting plasma were centrally assayed for CA 15–3. Genomic DNA was analyzed for the rs11212617 single nucleotide polymorphism. Absolute and relative change of CA 15–3 (metformin vs placebo) were compared using Wilcoxon rank and t tests. Regression models adjusted for baseline differences and assessed key interactions. All statistical tests were 2-sided.

Results

Mean (SD) age was 52.4 (10.0) years. The majority of patients had T2/3, node-positive, hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative breast cancer treated with (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Mean (SD) baseline CA 15–3 was 17.7 (7.6) and 18.0 (8.1 U/mL). At 6 months, CA 15–3 was statistically significantly reduced in metformin vs placebo arms (absolute geometric mean reduction in CA 15–3 = 7.7% vs 2.0%, P < .001; relative metformin: placebo level of CA 15–3 [adjusted for age, baseline body mass index, and baseline CA 15–3] = 0.94, 95% confidence interval = 0.92 to 0.96). This reduction was independent of tumor characteristics, perioperative systemic therapy, baseline body mass index, insulin, and the single nucleotide polymorphism status (all Ps > .11).

Conclusions

Our observation that metformin reduces CA 15–3 by approximately 6% was corroborated in a large placebo-controlled randomized trial. The clinical implications of this reduction in CA 15–3 will be explored in upcoming efficacy analyses of breast cancer outcomes in MA.32.
Parents’ Self-Reported Psychological Impacts of COVID-19: Associations With Parental Burnout, Child Behavior, and Income
Authors: Kerr Margaret L , Fanning Kerrie A , Huynh Tuyen , Botto Inés , Kim Christina N
Published: July 2021

Objective

The current study investigates associations between parents’ perceived coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) psychological impacts and experiences of parental burnout, children’s behaviors, and income.

Methods

Data were collected during an online survey of parents’ (N = 1000) pandemic experiences in April 2020. Parents (M = 36.5 years old, SD = 6.0; 82.1% White) with at least one child 12 years or younger reported on measures of mental health, perceived COVID-19 impacts, parental burnout, and perceived increases in children’s stress and positive behaviors.

Results

Path model analyses revealed that parents who perceived increased psychological impacts from COVID-19 reported higher levels of parental burnout, greater increases in children’s stress behaviors, and less positive behavior in children. Additionally, there were significant indirect effects of parental burnout on the link between COVID-19 psychological impacts and children’s behaviors. Finally, family income moderated associations between psychological impacts and children’s stress behaviors, such that the association was stronger for families with lower income.

Conclusions

These results suggest parents’ perceptions of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their mental health has implications for parent and child well-being, with stronger associations for low-income families. Given the potential for spillover effects between parents and children, promoting family well-being through practice and policy initiatives is crucial, including providing financial and caregiving relief for parents, and mental and behavioral health support for families.
BUSCO Update: Novel and Streamlined Workflows along with Broader and Deeper Phylogenetic Coverage for Scoring of Eukaryotic, Prokaryotic, and Viral Genomes
Authors: Manni Mosè , Berkeley Matthew R , Seppey Mathieu , Simão Felipe A , Zdobnov Evgeny M
Published: July 2021

Methods for evaluating the quality of genomic and metagenomic data are essential to aid genome assembly procedures and to correctly interpret the results of subsequent analyses. BUSCO estimates the completeness and redundancy of processed genomic data based on universal single-copy orthologs. Here, we present new functionalities and major improvements of the BUSCO software, as well as the renewal and expansion of the underlying data sets in sync with the OrthoDB v10 release. Among the major novelties, BUSCO now enables phylogenetic placement of the input sequence to automatically select the most appropriate BUSCO data set for the assessment, allowing the analysis of metagenome-assembled genomes of unknown origin. A newly introduced genome workflow increases the efficiency and runtimes especially on large eukaryotic genomes. BUSCO is the only tool capable of assessing both eukaryotic and prokaryotic species, and can be applied to various data types, from genome assemblies and metagenomic bins, to transcriptomes and gene sets.
Validation of the hen’s egg test for micronucleus induction (HET-MN): detailed protocol including scoring atlas, historical control data and statistical analysis
Authors: Maul Katrin , Fieblinger Dagmar , Heppenheimer Andreas , Kreutz Juergen , Liebsch Manfred , Luch Andreas , Pirow Ralph , Poth Albrecht , Strauch Pamela , Dony Eva , Schulz Markus , Wolf Thorsten , Reisinger Kerstin
Published: July 2021

A validation exercise of the hen’s egg test for micronucleus induction was finalised with a very good predictivity based on the analysis of micronuclei in peripheral erythrocytes of fertilised chicken eggs (Reisinger et al. The hen’s egg test for micronucleus-induction (HET-MN): validation data set. Mutagenesis, this issue). For transparency reasons this complementary publication provides further details on the assay especially as it was the first validation study in the field of genotoxicity testing involving the use of chicken eggs. Thus, the experimental protocol is described in detail and is complemented by a scoring atlas for microscopic analysis in blood cells. In addition, general characteristics of the test system, which is able to mirror the systemic availability of test compounds, are delineated: the test compound passes the egg membrane and is taken up by the blood vessels of the underlying chorioallantoic membrane. Subsequently, it is distributed by the circulating blood, metabolised by the developing liver and the yolk sac membrane and finally excreted into the allantois, a bladder equivalent. In specific, the suitability of the test system for genotoxicity testing is shown by, inter alia, a low background DNA damage in a comprehensive historical control database. In addition, the state-of-the-art statistical method used to evaluate obtained data is delineated. It combines laboratory-specific effect threshold with the Umbrella–Williams test, a statistical model also of interest for other genotoxicity test methods.
Mouse models of glioblastoma for the evaluation of novel therapeutic strategies
Authors: Haddad Alexander F , Young Jacob S , Amara Dominic , Berger Mitchel S , Raleigh David R , Aghi Manish K , Butowski Nicholas A
Published: July 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an incurable brain tumor with a median survival of approximately 15 months despite an aggressive standard of care that includes surgery, chemotherapy, and ionizing radiation. Mouse models have advanced our understanding of GBM biology and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for GBM patients. However, model selection is crucial when testing developmental therapeutics, and each mouse model of GBM has unique advantages and disadvantages that can influence the validity and translatability of experimental results. To shed light on this process, we discuss the strengths and limitations of 3 types of mouse GBM models in this review: syngeneic models, genetically engineered mouse models, and xenograft models, including traditional xenograft cell lines and patient-derived xenograft models.
Impact of the SnRK1 protein kinase on sucrose homeostasis and the transcriptome during the diel cycle
Authors: Peixoto Bruno , Moraes Thiago A , Mengin Virginie , Margalha Leonor , Vicente Rubén , Feil Regina , Höhne Melanie , Sousa António G G , Lilue Jingtao , Stitt Mark , Lunn John E , Baena-González Elena
Published: July 2021

SNF1-related Kinase 1 (SnRK1) is an evolutionarily conserved protein kinase with key functions in energy management during stress responses in plants. To address a potential role of SnRK1 under favorable conditions, we performed a metabolomic and transcriptomic characterization of rosettes of 20-d-old Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants of SnRK1 gain- and loss-of-function mutants during the regular diel cycle. Our results show that SnRK1 manipulation alters the sucrose and trehalose 6-phosphate (Tre6P) relationship, influencing how the sucrose content is translated into Tre6P accumulation and modulating the flux of carbon to the tricarboxylic acid cycle downstream of Tre6P signaling. On the other hand, daily cycles of Tre6P accumulation were accompanied by changes in SnRK1 signaling, leading to a maximum in the expression of SnRK1-induced genes at the end of the night, when Tre6P levels are lowest, and to a minimum at the end of the day, when Tre6P levels peak. The expression of SnRK1-induced genes was strongly reduced by transient Tre6P accumulation in an inducible Tre6P synthase (otsA) line, further suggesting the involvement of Tre6P in the diel oscillations in SnRK1 signaling. Transcriptional profiling of wild-type plants and SnRK1 mutants also uncovered defects that are suggestive of an iron sufficiency response and of a matching induction of sulfur acquisition and assimilation when SnRK1 is depleted. In conclusion, under favorable growth conditions, SnRK1 plays a role in sucrose homeostasis and transcriptome remodeling in autotrophic tissues and its activity is influenced by diel fluctuations in Tre6P levels.
Recent developments in German taxation of distributions of foreign trusts and foundations to their Germany-based beneficiaries
Authors: Haag Maximilian , Tischendorf Michael
Published: July 2021

Distributions of foreign trusts and foundations to their Germany-based beneficiaries may be subject to German income and gift tax. Fortunately, German tax authorities now have implemented a judgment of the German Federal Fiscal Court rendered on 3 July 2019 stating that distributions made by a foreign foundation to its Germany-based beneficiaries are not subject to German gift tax provided that (i) the distribution has been made in accordance with the foundation’s statutes and (ii) the beneficiary does not have a claim regarding the distribution received. However, there are still some cases in which gift tax may be levied on such distributions, so that the risk of potential double taxation with both income and gift tax is still not completely off the table.
Impact of Foliar Fungicides on Disease and Silage Quality of Brown Midrib Corn Hybrids in Wisconsin
Authors: Reed Hannah , Mueller Brian , Groves Carol L. , Smith Damon L.
Published: July 2021

Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the most widely grown crops in the United States due to its importance as a feed, food, and fuel crop. Silage is a high-energy, fermented feed that uses the entire corn plant and is important for feeding dairy cows. Any disease that affects the plant’s physiology can reduce silage quality. The goal of this study was to evaluate fungicide treatments on silage corn hybrids to determine their effect on fungal diseases, including those caused by Fusarium graminearum, on silage quality. Foliar fungicide trials were conducted in Arlington, Wisconsin, in 2018 and 2019 and included two brown-midrib silage hybrids. In-field disease ratings were collected for foliar disease symptoms, ear rot severity, and lodging. Harvested silage was analyzed for yield, quality parameters, and mycotoxin (deoxynivalenol, DON) concentration. There were significant differences in all measured parameters between years and hybrids; however, only the foliar disease ratings were consistently reduced by the use of fungicide treatments. DON concentrations were significantly lower for two fungicide treatments in one hybrid in 2019. There were no significant differences among the treatments used on yield or any quality parameters in this study. More research needs to be done to find potential fungicides that can consistently reduce F. graminearum damage and DON concentration in silage corn.
New horizons in early drugs development in solid cancers
Authors: Kotecki Nuria , Kindt Nadège , Krayem Mohammad , Awada Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Purpose of review

Drug development is the process of bringing new anticancer agents into clinical practice. From the basic research to clinical research each step is essential and intimately linked. The aim of this review is to describe emerging preclinical models and to provide an overview of selected drugs recently developed in oncology.

Recent findings

Preclinical models reproducing human immune-tumor interactions, 3D cell cultures and microfluidic platforms are of great interest for the development of immunotherapies and combination therapies and offer the opportunity to better understand the interplay between cancer and stromal cells.

Following a better biological understanding of cancer and advances in precision oncology, new exciting drugs (e.g. antibodies-drugs conjugates [ADCs], immunotherapeutic strategies, molecular-targeted therapies) have entered the field of clinical research and even clinical practice.

Recent improvements in preclinical models will allow an accurate selection of drug candidates for clinical research. Innovative drugs are currently being developed from early to later phases of development. An important remaining challenge in drug development is to set up a new model of patient-centered clinical research to facilitate quick access to innovation and target-oriented trials.
Are advancements in screening technology contributing to breast cancer over-diagnosis?
Authors: Jatoi Ismail
Published: July 2021

Purpose of review

Advancements in breast screening technology have increased the sensitivity of screening and thereby increased the detection rates of nonlethal cancers. Thus, improvements in breast screening technology may contribute to ‘over-diagnosis’, which refers to detection of cancers that pose no threat to life and that, in the absence of screening, might never have been detected. The purpose of this review is to draw attention to risks of over-diagnosis and provide a rationale for evaluating screening clinical breast examination (CBE) as an alternative to modern technology-based (mammography) screening.

Recent findings

Novel screening technologies have been adopted largely on the basis of their abilities to increase tumor-detection rates. However, as breast cancer treatments have improved, the mortality benefits of screening have declined. Moreover, there is evidence suggesting that, in the modern era of effective adjuvant systemic therapies, the mortality benefit of screening CBE may now be comparable to that of modern screening mammography, but screening CBE carries less risk of over-diagnosis.

A randomized trial comparing modern mammography screening versus screening CBE is warranted. If confirmed that the mortality benefits of the two screening strategies are now comparable, then screening CBE might be considered a reasonable alternative to mammography screening.
Barriers to Respite Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs
Authors: Graaf Genevieve , Baiden Philip , Boyd George , Keyes Latocia
Published: July 2021

Objective:

The objective of this study was to estimate time-specific, population-based prevalence of 14 specific barriers to respite services, as reported by parents of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) with and without emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems (EBDPs), and to identify individual, family, and environmental characteristics associated with the most common barriers to respite care for families of CSHCN.

Methods:

Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine data from the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs for 2005/2006 and 2009/2010.

Results:

Among families reporting unmet need for respite care services, service availability or transportation barriers (23.8%) and cost barriers (19.8%) were the most commonly reported obstacles among all CSHCN, followed by lack of knowledge about where to obtain respite services (12.1%) and inconvenient service times (11.3%). Reports of location or availability barriers decreased significantly from 2005 to 2009, but service time barriers increased simultaneously. All types of barriers to respite services were reported significantly more frequently by CSHCN with EBDPs than those without, even when other demographic factors were controlled for. CSHCN conditional severity and discontinuity in insurance were positively associated with cost barriers, whereas CSHCN public health coverage was associated with reduced rates of reported cost and information barriers to respite care.

Conclusion:

Increased understanding of parent-reported barriers to respite care for families of CSHCN is critical to creating structural and practice-oriented solutions that address obstacles and increase access to respite care for these vulnerable families.
Evaluation of the Safety and Immunogenicity of M-M-RII (Combination Measles-mumps-rubella Vaccine)
Authors: Nyaku Mawuli , Richardson Elizabeth , Martinon-Torres Federico , Kuter Barbara J.
Published: July 2021

Background:

The safety and immunogenicity of M-M-RII (measles, mumps and rubella virus vaccine live, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA)—the only combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine licensed for use in the United States—were previously reported in pre- and postlicensure clinical trials conducted from 1988 to 2009. M-M-RII continues to be evaluated as a comparator in clinical trials of other vaccines. Here, we review safety and efficacy data from more recent clinical trials of M-M-RII.

Methods:

We performed a systematic literature review of trials using M-M-RII published from 2010 to 2019.

Results:

In the 15 studies that met the inclusion criteria, a total of 12,032 subjects were vaccinated: 7667 persons received a first dose only, 2137 participated in 2-dose studies (128 received 1 dose and 2009 received both) and 2063 received a single dose of M-M-RII as their second dose. Dose number was not specified for 165 participants, ≥6 years old, in 2 studies in which a single dose of M-M-RII was administered. Similar to previous reports, M-M-RII was well tolerated and immunogenic when administered alone or concomitantly with other routinely recommended vaccinations. The most common adverse events included transient injection site pain and fever. Serious adverse events were extremely rare, with only 4 probable or potential vaccine-related events reported among the 12,032 participating subjects.

Conclusions:

In trials published from 2010 to 2019, M-M-RII continued to be safe and immunogenic in all age groups studied. These data, along with the results of earlier trials, indicate that the performance of the vaccine has been consistent across more than 30 years of postlicensure studies.
Ultrasound delivery of Chinese rhubarb promotes early recovery of gastrointestinal function after gastrectomy: a prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Jia Hengbo , Wang Shaofeng , Shen Lujun , You Jun , Yang Fan , Abe Masanobu , Xu Yingying , Zong Liang
Published: July 2021

Objective:

Chinese rhubarb is a promising Chinese medicine for the promotion of gastrointestinal function. This study was conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of Chinese rhubarb administered via ultrasound delivery in promoting the early recovery of gastrointestinal function after gastrectomy.

Methods:

In this prospective randomized controlled study, 100 patients who were scheduled to undergo total or subtotal gastrectomy in Changzhi People’s Hospital or Subei People’s Hospital from August 2017 to January 2018 were recruited. These patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups before surgery: 50 in the experimental (Chinese rhubarb) group, and 50 in the control (routine nursing) group. After surgery, time to flatus, bowel movement, clear liquid diet, and removal of nasogastric tube were recorded and analyzed. In addition, postoperative pain, postoperative bowel movement-related complications, and postoperative hospital stay duration were also recorded and analyzed. The study was approved by The protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Changzhi People’s Hospital and Subei People’s Hospital on July 1, 2017 and registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on December 17, 2018 (registration number: ChiCTR1800020143).

Results:

Time to flatus (control group 85.68±22.00 hours vs experimental group 73.06±23.42 hours;
P
=0.007), bowel movement (5.52±1.56 vs 4.40±1.21 days;
P
<0.001), clear liquid diet (6.72±1.16 vs 6.22±1.28 days;
P
=0.044), and removal of nasogastric tube (6.30±1.52 vs 5.65±1.58 days;
P
=0.044) were significantly shorter in the experimental group compared with the control group, as was the postoperative hospital stay duration (14.30±3.46 vs 12.86±1.36 days;
P
=0.006). In addition, better pain relief (
P
=0.003) and a lower incidence of postoperative bowel movement-related complications (6 vs 21;
P
=0.001) were noted in the experimental group.

Conclusion:

Ultrasound delivery of Chinese rhubarb is useful to promote the early recovery of gastrointestinal function after gastrectomy.
Bridging the Gap Between Pilot and Scale-Up: A Model of Antenatal Testing for Curable Sexually Transmitted Infections From Botswana
Authors: Wynn Adriane , Moucheraud Corrina , Martin Natasha K. , Morroni Chelsea , Ramogola-Masire Doreen , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Leibowitz Arleen
Published: July 2021

Background

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) are common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) associated with adverse outcomes, yet most countries do not test and conduct syndromic management, which lacks sensitivity and specificity. Innovations allow for expanded STI testing; however, cost is a barrier.

Methods

Using inputs from a pilot program in Botswana, we developed a model among a hypothetical population of 50,000 pregnant women to compare 1-year costs and outcomes associated with 3 antenatal STI testing strategies: (1) point-of-care, (2) centralized laboratory, and (3) a mixed approach (point of care at high-volume sites, and hubs elsewhere), and syndromic management.

Results

Syndromic management had the lowest delivery cost but was associated with the most infections at delivery, uninfected women treated, CT/NG-related low-birth-weight infants, disability-adjusted life years, and low birth weight hospitalization costs. Point-of-care CT/NG testing would treat and cure the most infections but had the highest delivery cost. Among the testing scenarios, the mixed scenario had the most favorable cost per woman treated and cured ($534/cure). Compared with syndromic management, the mixed approach resulted in a mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $953 per disability-adjusted life years averted, which is cost-effective under World Health Organization's one-time per-capita gross domestic product willingness-to-pay threshold.

Conclusions

As countries consider new technologies to strengthen health services, there is an opportunity to determine how to best deploy resources. Compared with point-of-care, centralized laboratory, and syndromic management, the mixed approach offered the lowest cost per infection averted and is cost-effective if policy makers' willingness to pay is informed by the World Health Organization's gross domestic product/capita threshold.
Personality Predictors of Time to Return to Play After Sports-Related Concussion
Authors: Weishaar Megan G. , Stephens Jaclyn A. , Conner Bradley T.
Published: July 2021

Objective

This study aimed to address a gap in concussion literature by investigating the relation between personality and return to play. It is important to know that earlier return to play places individuals at higher risk of sustaining a new concussion after an initial concussion.

Design

Participants were undergraduate students recruited from psychology courses in 2019 who reported medically confirmed sports-related concussion and medically advised return to play (N = 202). Participants completed an online battery in a supervised laboratory setting that included self-report survey measures, concussion history items, and behavioral impulsivity tasks. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze time to return to play after participants’ first reported sports-related concussion.

Results

Results showed that one subdimension of sensation seeking, experience seeking, and two subdimensions of self-reported impulsivity, attentional and motor impulsivity, were positively associated with earlier return to play after a sports-related concussion. In contrast, higher levels of conscientiousness were associated with later return to play.

Conclusions

Despite a heterogeneous sample, significant relations were found between timing of return to play and sensation seeking, impulsivity, and conscientiousness. Because earlier return to play can heighten the risk of sustaining a new concussion after an initial concussion, it is important to identify characteristics—such as personality traits—that influence individuals’ return-to-play behaviors.

To Claim CME Credits

Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME

CME Objectives

Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Distinguish between personality traits that resulted in earlier versus later return to play in this sample; (2) Describe why certain personality traits might be related to an earlier or later return-to-play timeline; and (3) List practical ways that these study results could be used to reduce adverse outcomes related to early return to play.

Level

Advanced

Accreditation

The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Facial Anthropometry Measurements Using Three-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetry Analysis Among Nigerians
Authors: Adekunle Adegbayi Adeola , Olowo Abiodun Yusuff , James Olutayo , Adamson Olawale Olatubosun , Alade Azeez A. , Agbogidi Failat Olushola , Oladega Afìsu O. , Ogunlewe Mobolanle Olugbemiga , Adeyemo Wasiu Lanre , Busch Tamara D. , Mossey Peter A. , Marazita Mary L. , Butali Azeez
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to determine the normative facial anthropometry measurement among Nigerians using three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry analysis.

This study was carried out in Lagos, Nigeria over a period of 3 years. The sample population was Nigerians of diverse ethnic groups, age 16 and above with no history of congenital or acquired craniofacial deformities.

A total of 452 subjects participated in the study with 56.2% males and 43.8% females. Most of the participants were between the ages of 25 to 49 (54.4%), 40.7% were less than 25 years of age and only 4.4% were more than 50 years old. The mean body mass index (BMI) for males was 22.7 and 23.4 for females. Mean values of upper facial height, midfacial height, lower facial height, intercanthal distance, interpupillary distance, upper facial width, and lower facial width are 69.13 ± 5.91, 49.89 ± 3.56, 67.85 ± 6.12, 35.19 ± 3.20, 67.04 ± 3.67, 139.43 ± 7.11, and 124.29 ± 9.72 mm, respectively. The upper facial height, commissure width, upper lip length, and lower jaw width were significantly affected by age, while the BMI of an individual was a determinant of the interpupillary distance, facial width, and lower jaw width.

This study demonstrated that there was a statistically significant difference in the facial dimensions of males when compared to females across all ages among the study population. The authors also observed that age and BMI are significant predictors of variations in some of the measurements.
Functional metabolic phenotyping of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Heid Irina , Karakaya Sinan , Münch Corinna , Lueong Smiths S. , Winkelkotte Alina M. , Liffers Sven T. , Godfrey Laura , Cheung Phyllis FY , Savvatakis Konstatinos , Topping Geoffrey J. , Englert Florian , Kritzner Lukas , Grashei Martin , Kunzke Thomas , Sun Na , Walch Axel , Tannapfel Andrea , Viebahn Richard , Wolters Heiner , Uhl Waldemar , Vangala Deepak , Smeets Esther M.M. , Aarntzen Erik H.J.G. , Rauh Daniel , Hoheisel Jörg D. , Hellerschmied Doris , Hahn Stephan A. , Schilling Franz , Braren Rickmer , Trajkovic-Arsic Marija , Siveke Jens T.
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) lacks targeted treatment options. Although subtypes with transcriptome-based distinct lineage and differentiation features have been identified, deduced clinically actionable targets remain elusive. We here investigate functional metabolic features of the classical and QM (quasi-mesenchymal)/basal-like PDAC subtypes potentially exploitable for non-invasive subtype differentiation and therapeutic intervention.

A collection of human PDAC cell lines, primary patient derived cells (PDC), patient derived xenografts (PDX) and patient PDAC samples were transcriptionally stratified into the classical and QM subtype. Functional metabolic analyses including targeted and non-targeted metabolite profiling (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI)), seahorse metabolic flux assays and metabolic drug targeting were performed. Hyperpolarized 13C-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (HP-MRS) of PDAC xenografts was used for in vivo detection of intra-tumoral [1-13C]pyruvate and [1-13C]lactate metabolism.

We identified glycolysis and lipid metabolism/fatty acid oxidation as transcriptionally preserved metabolic pathways in QM and classical PDAC subtype respectively. However, these metabolic cues were not unambiguously functionally linked to one subtype. Striking functional metabolic heterogeneity was observed especially in primary patient derived cells with only individual samples representing high dependence on glycolysis or mitochondrial oxidation. Of note, QM cells actively use the glycolytic product lactate as oxidative mitochondrial fuel. Using HP-MRS, we were able to non-invasively differentiate glycolytic tumor xenografts with high intratumoral [1-13C]pyruvate to [1-13C]lactate conversion in vivo.

Although PDAC transcriptomes indicate molecular subtype-associated distinct metabolic pathways, we found substantial functional metabolic heterogeneity independent of the molecular subtype. Non-invasive identification of highly glycolytic tumors by [1-13C]pyruvate/lactate HP-MRS support individualized metabolic targeting approaches.
The combined toxicity test of polyester and tetra ethylene glycol on Daphnia magna
Authors: Jung Yeonjo
Published: July 2021

The combined toxicity test of polyester and tetra ethylene glycol on Daphnia magna. Globally, wide use of plastics and its increased production has led to a mounting amount of plastic waste entering the natural ecosystems. Due to their small size, plastic particles might be ingested by organisms at the lower end of the food chain and can be transferred by feeding to top consumers. Consequently, plastic pollution in aquatic environments and its potential impact on aquatic life has recently been recognized as an issue of considerable concern for ecosystem. I produced microplastics from 100% polyester thread from Houjix, cut it finely and used a dissecting needle to cut into a size of 5mm or less through a microscope. I also included ethylene glycol to investigate its toxic effects on D. magna. Since my aim was also to compare the toxicity effect of both chemicals, I used different concentrations individually and then in combinations to determine the potential toxic effects of polyester and tetra ethylene glycol (combined and separately) on the life (survival, death) of D. magna.

Microplastics from 100% polyester thread from Houjix were produced, into a size of 5mm or less through a microscope. Tetra ethylene glycol was also used to investigate its toxic effects on D. magna. The toxicity effect of both chemicals using different concentrations individually and then in combinations were employed to determine the potential toxic effects of polyester and tetra ethylene glycol (combined and separately) on the life of D. magna. The study exhibited that the IC50 of TEG was higher as compared to polyester which suggests that polyester was more adverse than TEG. Moreover, when TEG and polyester were treated in combination, IC50 value was lower (Figure 3) than the IC50 value of TEG and polyester separately. In other words, the TEG and polyester in combination exhibited the lowest IC50 value in this study. These results suggest that TEG and polyester in combination had adverse effects on the growth and development of D. magna
Habituation, task solving and memorization may facilitate biological invasions: the Starling example
Authors: Rodriguez Alexandra , Hausberger Martine , Clergeau Philippe , Henry Laurence
Published: July 2021

Invasions ecology deals more and more with behavioural characteristics of invasive species. Particularly, research have focused on the personality of invaders and on their way of coping with novelty in new habitats. Traits of neophobia may limit individuals in their exploration of novel objects or the consumption of novel foods, they may stop the access to valuable ressources. Actually, in novel environments like cities, food can be unreachable in throwaway dishes with lids or hidden in the garbage or even close to frightening objects. Animals may either left the place and waste these resources, or they can express low neophobia from the beginning and manipulate the objects to reach food. They may also habituate progressively to the context and use the ressources.

Here we analyzed the behavioural responses of individuals from three populations of European starling Sturnus vulgaris: a population anciently settled in a rural region, a population that has recently colonized a urban area and a population of wintering migrant birds.

We used a series of tests in order to explore if individuals would habituate to a novel object and if they could remember it eight months later. We explored if individuals would be less neophobic when confronted to two novel objects successively and we tested them in a learning task involving a novel object and an attractive food. Our results show that Sturnus vulgaris habituates rapidly to novel objects and that categorization facilitates neophobia lost when confronted to two different novel objects. Initially young birds appeared to be more skilled than adults in the learning task. Individuals from this species seem to be able to remember an object durably. We suggest that habituation, task solving and memorization are three mechanisms enhancing biological invasions.
Identification of a new family of “megaphages” that are abundant in the marine environment
Authors: Michniewski Slawomir , Rihtman Branko , Cook Ryan , Jones Michael A. , Wilson William H , Scanlan David J , Millard Andrew
Published: July 2021

Megaphages – bacteriophages harbouring extremely large genomes – have recently been found to be ubiquitous, being described from a variety of microbiomes ranging from the animal gut to soil and freshwater systems. However, no complete marine megaphage has been identified to date. Here, using both short and long read sequencing, we assembled >900 high-quality draft viral genomes from water in the English Channel. One of these genomes included a novel megaphage, Mar_Mega_1 at >650 Kb, making it one of the largest phage genomes assembled to date. Utilising phylogenetic and network approaches, we found this phage represents a new family of bacteriophages. Genomic analysis showed Mar_Mega_1 shares relatively few homologues with its closest relatives, but, as with other mega-phages Mar_Mega_1 contained a variety of auxiliary metabolic genes responsible for carbon metabolism and nucleotide biosynthesis, including isocitrate dehydrogenase [NADP] and nicotinamide-nucleotide amidohydrolase [PncC] which have not previously been identified in megaphages. The results of this study indicate that phages containing extremely large genomes can be found in abundance in the marine environment and augment host metabolism by mechanisms not previously described.
Effect of copper addition in carbon steel on biocorrosion by sulfate-reducing bacteria in solution
Authors: Yu Haobo , Li Zimo , Xia Yeyin , Qi Yameng , Li Yingchao , Liu Qiaoping , Chen Changfeng
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the anti-biocorrosion performance and mechanism of the Cu-bearing carbon steel in the environment containing sulfate-reducing bacterial (SRB).

Design/methodology/approach

The biocorrosion behavior of specimens with Cu concentration of 0 Wt.%, 0.1 Wt.%, 0.3 Wt.% and 0.6 Wt.% were investigated by immersion test in SRB solution. By examining the prepared cross-section of the biofilm using focused ion beam microscopy, SRB distribution, bacterial morphology, biofilm structure and composition were determined. The ion selectivity of the biofilm was also obtained by membrane potential measurement. Moreover, the anti-biocorrosion performance of the Cu-bearing carbon steel pipeline was tested in a shale gas field in Chongqing, China.

Findings

Both the results of the laboratory test and shale gas field test indicate that Cu-bearing carbon steel possesses obvious resistance to microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). The SRB, corrosion rate and pitting depth decreased dramatically with Cu concentration in the substrate. The local acidification caused by hydrolyze of ferric ion coming from SRB metabolism and furtherly aggravated by anion selectivity biofilm promoted the pitting corrosion. Anti-biocorrosion of Cu-bearing carbon steel was attributed to the accumulation of Cu compounds in the biofilm and the weaker anion selectivity of the biofilm. This research results provide an approach to the development of economical antibacterial metallic material.

Originality/value

MIC occurs extensively and has become one of the most frequent reasons for corrosion-induced failure in the oil and gas industry. In this study, Cu-bearing carbon steel was obtained by Cu addition in carbon steel and possessed excellent anti-biocorrosion property both in the laboratory and shale gas field. This study provides an approach to the development of an economical antibacterial carbon steel pipeline to resist MIC.
Decision tree classifiers for unmanned aircraft configuration selection
Authors: Dantas de Jesus Ferreira João Antônio , Secco Ney Rafael
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the possibility of lowering the time taken during the aircraft design for unmanned aerial vehicles by using machine learning (ML) for the configuration selection phase. In this work, a database of unmanned aircraft is compiled and is proposed that decision tree classifiers (DTC) can understand the relations between mission and operational requirements and the resulting aircraft configuration.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a ML-based approach to configuration selection of unmanned aircraft. Multiple DTC are built to predict the overall configuration. The classifiers are trained with a database of 118 unmanned aircraft with 57 characteristics, 47 of which are inputs for the classification problem, and 10 are the desired outputs, such as wing configuration or engine type.

Findings

This paper shows that DTC can be used for the configuration selection of unmanned aircraft with reasonable accuracy, understanding the connections between the different mission requirements and the culminating configuration. The framework is also capable of dealing with incomplete databases, maximizing the available knowledge.

Originality/value

This paper increases the computational usage for the aircraft design while retaining requirements’ traceability and increasing decision awareness.
The effect of foreign market knowledge on SME export performance: a study ofnon-traditional SMEs in Ghana
Authors: Abubakari Aidatu , Ofori Kwame Simpe , Boateng Henry , N’Da Koffi , Hinson Robert Ebo
Published: July 2021

Purpose

It is well documented in the extant literature that knowledge plays a crucial role in small and medium enterprise (SME) internationalization. Exporting SMEs from developing economies faces many challenges, including lack of knowledge about institutions in foreign markets, inadequate knowledge about foreign institutions and limited internationalization knowledge (IK). However, research on the export performance of SMEs has thus far focused on the internationalization strategies of multinational corporations. This study aims to explore the effect of foreign market knowledge on SME export performance. The authors also assessed the moderating effect of employee absorptive capacity in the knowledge-performance nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a survey design to collect data from owners/managers of SMEs exporters in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. A total of 350 questionnaires were distributed based on convenience. Of this number, 257 usable responses were used in the final analysis. The authors tested the proposed model using partial least squares-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings show that the three types of foreign market knowledge tested in this study, namely, foreign institutional knowledge (FIK), foreign business knowledge and IK have positive and significant effects on SME exporters’ performance. It also shows that employees’ absorptive capacity affects the relationship between FIK and SME exporters’ performance.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates the types of knowledge relevant to SME export performance. The study further demonstrates the moderating effect of employee absorptive capacity on the relationship between knowledge and export performance. The study advances existing knowledge on SME performance, especially from an emerging economy context.