bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth rate‐dependent synthesis of halomethanes in marine heterotrophic bacteria and its implications for the ozone layer recovery
Authors: Gómez‐Consarnau Laura , Klein Nick J. , Cutter Lynda S. , Sañudo‐Wilhelmy Sergio A.
Published: November 2020

Halomethanes (e.g., CH3Cl, CH3Br, CH3I and CHBr3) are ozone‐depleting compounds that, in contrast to the human‐made chlorofluorocarbons, marine organisms synthesize naturally. Therefore, their production cannot be totally controlled by human action. However, identifying all their natural sources and understanding their synthesis regulation can help to predict their production rates and their impact on the future recovery of the Earth's ozone layer. Here we show that the synthesis of mono‐halogenated halocarbons CH3Cl, CH3Br, and CH3I is a generalized process in representatives of the major marine heterotrophic bacteria groups. Furthermore, halomethane production was growth rate dependent in all the strains we studied, implying uniform synthesis regulation patterns among bacterioplankton. Using these experimental observations and in situ halomethane concentrations, we further evaluated the potential production rates associated with higher bacterial growth rates in response to global warming in a coastal environment within the Southern California Bight. Our estimates show that a 3°C temperature rise would translate into a 35%–84% increase in halomethane production rate by 2100. Overall, these data suggest that marine heterotrophic bacteria are significant producers of these climate‐relevant gases and that their contribution to the atmospheric halogen budget could increase in the future, impacting the ozone layer recovery.
Pre‐existing interstitial lung disease does not affect prognosis in non‐small cell lung cancer patients with PD‐L1 expression ≥50% on first‐line pembrolizumab
Authors: Yamaguchi Ou , Kaira Kyoichi , Shinomiya Shun , Mouri Atsuto , Hashimoto Kosuke , Shiono Ayako , Miura Yu , Akagami Tomoe , Imai Hisao , Kobayashi Kunihiko , Kagamu Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

Background

The safety of pembrolizumab monotherapy in treatment‐naïve non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with high programed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression and pre‐existing interstitial lung disease (ILD) has not yet been determined. Here, we aimed to evaluate the prognosis, efficacy and safety associated with pembrolizumab in such settings.

Methods

In this single‐institution retrospective study conducted from May 2017 to October 2019, pembrolizumab was administered to 72 Japanese patients with treatment‐naïve advanced NSCLC with PD‐L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥50%. Patients with ILD were assigned to the ILD group, and those without to the non‐ILD group. Between‐group comparisons were then performed.

Results

Of the 72 patients, 61 (84.7%) were male. The median age was 70 years. A total of 64 patients (88.9%) had a smoking history, median PD‐L1 TPS status was 77.5%, and 10 of the 72 patients (13.9%) had ILD on pretreatment computed tomography. The objective response rate (ORR) was 45.8% and disease control rate (DCR) was 75.0%. The ORR was 70.0% and DCR was 90.0% in the ILD group, while the ORR was 41.9% and DCR was 72.6% in the non‐ILD group. The median overall survival was 568 days; the value in the non‐ILD group was 521 days, while in the ILD group was not reached. There was no significant difference between the two groups (log‐lank, P = 0.73).

Conclusions

Pembrolizumab was administered to patients with pre‐existing ILD with no difference in prognosis compared to patients without ILD. In patients with ILD, physicians should consider the expected long‐term prognosis and risk of adverse events.
Serum NETosis expression and recurrence risk after regional or volatile anaesthesia during breast cancer surgery: A pilot, prospective, randomised single‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Aghamelu Onyinye , Buggy Padraig , Smith Genevieve , Inzitari Rosanna , Wall Tom , Buggy Donal J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Some experimental and retrospective clinical studies signal an association between certain anaesthetic techniques and tumour metastasis following breast cancer surgery. Neutrophil Extracellular Trapping (NETosis) is an immunological process, whereby neutrophils engulf tumour antigen then degranulate, leaving a serologic marker. NETosis expression among breast cancer patients is associated with an increased risk of metastasis. We investigated the effect of two distinct anaesthetic techniques on the expression of NETosis in women who underwent potentially curative breast cancer surgery.

Methods

In a parallel‐group, randomised controlled trial, a subset of women (n = 40) undergoing breast cancer resection surgery, who were partaking in a larger trial (NCT00418457), were randomly assigned to receive volatile general anaesthesia (GA) or propofol GA combined with paravertebral regional anaesthesia (PPA) for their surgery. Serum was taken and stored before and 24 hours post‐operatively. NETosis was measured by ELISA using Neutrophil Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and citrullinated histone H3 (H3Cit) biomarkers, which were the co‐primary end points.

Results

Patient and breast cancer characteristics did not differ significantly between groups. Recurrence occurred in 7.5% patients. GA patients received more opioids and reported higher post‐operative pain than PPA. There was no difference in post‐operative MPO in GA vs PPA (10.5 ± 6.6 vs 11.5 ± 4.7 ng mL−1, P = .60). Regarding CitH3, there was no difference post‐operatively in GA vs PPA (3.6 ± 2.3 vs 4.0 ± 5.9, P = .80). NET expression did not differ before or after anaesthesia and surgery in either group, for either biomarker.

Conclusion

Anaesthetic technique did not affect NETosis expression in breast cancer patients, indicating that it is not a viable marker of the effect of anaesthetic technique on breast cancer recurrence.
Oligopsonistic Input Substitution in a Thin Market
Authors: McKendree Melissa G.S. , Saitone Tina L. , Schaefer K. Aleks
Published: November 2020

Concerns surrounding horizontal concentration, vertical coordination, regional procurement areas, and resultant thinly traded input markets have beset the U.S. beef industry for decades. In late 2016, Tyson Foods, Inc. announced to its suppliers that it would no longer purchase Holstein cattle at its Joslin, IL harvest facility. This alteration to Tyson's procurement policy provides a unique opportunity to estimate the degree and extent to which a firm‐level decision impacted the beef supply chain. Results indicate that Tyson's decision resulted in a 5.5% (3.5%) reduction in live (dressed) Holstein prices. This impact was immediate, and the updated equilibrium price relationship has persisted. Price impacts were more significant upstream; Holstein feeder cattle prices were reduced by 22% initially and struggled to find a new equilibrium level for more than two years, ultimately stabilizing 4.8% below pre‐announcement levels. We extend the price adjustment analysis to estimate impacts on U.S. Holstein feeder operations' revenues and gross margins, quantifying losses totaling $610 million annually.
Risk factors for severe and critically ill COVID‐19 patients: A review
Authors: Gao Ya‐dong , Ding Mei , Dong Xiang , Zhang Jin‐jin , Kursat Azkur Ahmet , Azkur Dilek , Gan Hui , Sun Yuan‐li , Fu Wei , Li Wei , Liang Hui‐ling , Cao Yi‐yuan , Yan Qi , Cao Can , Gao Hong‐yu , Brüggen Marie‐Charlotte , van de Veen Willem , Sokolowska Milena , Akdis Mübeccel , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: November 2020

The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has caused an unprecedented global social and economic impact, and high numbers of deaths. Many risk factors have been identified in the progression of COVID‐19 into a severe and critical stage, including old age, male gender, underlying comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, chronic lung diseases, heart, liver and kidney diseases, tumors, clinically apparent immunodeficiencies, local immunodeficiencies, such as early type I interferon secretion capacity, and pregnancy. Possible complications include acute kidney injury, coagulation disorders, thoromboembolism. The development of lymphopenia and eosinopenia are laboratory indicators of COVID‐19. Laboratory parameters to monitor disease progression include lactate dehydrogenase, procalcitonin, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, Krebs von den Lungen‐6 (KL‐6), and ferritin. The development of a cytokine storm and extensive chest computed tomography imaging patterns are indicators of a severe disease. In addition, socioeconomic status, diet, lifestyle, geographical differences, ethnicity, exposed viral load, day of initiation of treatment, and quality of health care have been reported to influence individual outcomes. In this review, we highlight the scientific evidence on the risk factors of severity of COVID‐19.
Care and Resistance
Authors: Mody Perveez
Published: November 2020

I consider the ways in which acts of kinship among British South Asians such as the suitable arrangement of a child’s marriage can be rejected by the child as an act of care and reframed as acts of force. Drawing on ethnographic research with people who have experienced “forced marriage,” I examine the processes through which they come to re‐examine the meanings of kinship and care from their own perspective and through their own life course. I argue that acts of care are not stable givens but rather constitute a constantly shifting set of configurations evolving through changing life experiences.
Endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment: A minimally invasive surgical technique
Authors: Azhough Ramin , Azari Younes , Taher Sahar , Jalali Pooya
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a common skin and subcutaneous disease that is mainly seen in men (mean age, 30 years); its incidence rate is 26 cases per 100 000. PSD greatly affects quality of life. Ideally, a surgical procedure to treat PSD should involve a minimal hospital stay and require minimal time off work, discomfort, operative time, and cost; it should also limit recurrence. In this study, we present a new minimally invasive technique for pilonidal sinus surgery known as endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSiT).

Methods

From February 2017 to April 2019, 100 patients diagnosed with PSD were treated with the EPSiT method at the Department of General Surgery, Imam Reza Hospital. Patient information was recorded prospectively. During the operation, the fistula cavity and tracts were ablated by an electrode that was introduced through the operative channel. All the epithelial and granulation tissues were removed by a brush inserted into the operative channel or by a Volkmann spoon.

Results

None of the patients had postoperative complications, such as hematoma, seroma, or wound infection, during the follow‐up period. Recurrence was seen four patients (4%). At 1 week postoperatively, the visual analog scale score was 3 for 37 patients (37%) and 2 for 28 patients (28%). The maximal cosmetic satisfaction rate was reported in 85 patients (85%).

Conclusion

As a minimally invasive procedure, EPSiT is effective for treating PSD. Compared with excision and primary closure techniques, EPSiT has a very low recurrence rate after the procedure and a short hospital stay.
Lymphocyte subsets early predict mortality in a large series of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Spain
Authors: Cantenys-Molina S , Fernández-Cruz E , Francos P , Lopez Bernaldo de Quirós J C , Muñoz P , Gil-Herrera J
Published: November 2020

The role of lymphocytes and their main subsets as prognostic factors of death in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients remains unclear, with no information obtained from patients outside China. We aimed to assess whether measuring lymphocyte subpopulations added clinical value to the total lymphocyte counting regarding mortality when they were simultaneously tested at hospital admission. Peripheral blood was analysed in 701 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed consecutive patients by lysed–no washed flow cytometry. Demographic and clinical features were registered in electronic medical records. Statistical analysis was performed after a 3-month follow-up. The 112 patients who died were older and had significantly higher frequencies of known co-morbidities than survivor COVID-19 patients. A significant reduction in total lymphocytes, CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ and CD19+ counts and CD3+ percentage was found in the group of deceased patients (P < 0·001), while the percentage of CD56+/CD16+ natural killer (NK) cells was significantly higher (P < 0·001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significantly increased risk of in-hospital death associated to age [odds ratio (OR) = 2·36, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1·9–3·0 P < 0·001]; CD4+ T counts ≤ 500 cells/μl, (OR = 2·79, 95% CI = 1·1–6·7, P = 0·021); CD8+ T counts ≤ 100 cells/μl, (OR = 1·98, 95% CI = 1·2–3·3) P = 0·009) and CD56+/CD16+ NK ≥ 30%, (OR = 1·97, 95% CI = 1·1–3·1, P = 0·002) at admission, independent of total lymphocyte numbers and co-morbidities, with area under the curve 0·85 (95% CI = 0·81–0·88). Reduced counts of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells with proportional expansion of NK lymphocytes at admission were prognostic factors of death in this Spanish series. In COVID-19 patients with normal levels of lymphocytes or mild lymphopenia, imbalanced lymphocyte subpopulations were early markers of in-hospital mortality.
Determinants of survival in captive‐bred Griffon Vultures Gyps fulvus after their release to the wild
Authors: Efrat Ron , Hatzofe Ohad , Miller Ygal , Berger‐Tal Oded
Published: November 2020

Conservation translocations are a wide‐spread tool commonly used to prevent the extinction of species locally and globally. However, conservation translocations are complicated operations which often fail, especially when they involve the release of captive‐bred animals. In order to survive, translocated animals need to adapt to a new environment; the success of this adaptation depends, to a large extent, on the characteristics of the release environment and on early life experiences that can affect the animals' proficiencies. We tested the effects of different early life experiences and differences in the release environment on the survival of captive‐bred translocated Griffon Vultures (Gyps fulvus) in Israel, where they are critically endangered. We used a mark‐resight approach to calculate survival using a large dataset containing 9 years of observations of individually‐marked vultures. We found that the Griffon Vultures' survival was positively affected by their age at release and the time they spent in the wild. We also found that survival was affected by rearing method, release site and release season. Our results emphasize the critical importance of the release protocol to the success of a conservation translocation project. Furthermore, our results show how events occurring during the entire pre‐release period can have important repercussions many years later when the captive animal is released into the wild, but also that experience gained post‐release plays a major role in the animals' survival.
Aberrant expression of HMB45 and negative PRAME expression in halo nevi
Authors: Ruby Kristen N. , Li Zhongze , Yan Shaofeng
Published: November 2020

Background

Traditionally, most cutaneous nevi show a gradient of HMB45 (human melanoma black 45) and negative PRAME (preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma) immunostaining, while melanomas often show irregularly positive, diffusely positive or completely negative HMB45 expression, and PRAME immunopositivity. However, we have occasionally observed benign halo nevi with loss of HMB45 gradient, raising diagnostic consideration for melanoma. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the expression pattern of HMB45 and PRAME in nevi with the halo phenomenon (NHP).

Methods

PRAME and HMB45 staining patterns in 20 cases of NHP and 16 cases of conventional nevi were evaluated using light microscopy. An HMB45 gradient was defined as immunopositivity in only superficial melanocytes. HMB45 aberrant expression consisted of superficial and deep immunopositivity.

Results

Aberrant HMB45 expression was observed in 10 of 20 NHP (50%). A gradient of HMB45 staining was seen in most conventional nevi, with only one showing focal weak expression in the deep dermis (6.3%). All cases of NHP and conventional nevi showed essentially negative immunostaining by PRAME.

Conclusion

Aberrant HMB45 expression in NHP is not uncommon and may be a diagnostic pitfall. Negative PRAME immunostaining may be a reassuring finding to help differentiate halo nevus from malignant melanoma.
Living Archives and The Social Transmission of Memory
Authors: Sabiescu Amalia G.
Published: November 2020

Living archives refer to practices and environments that connect the organisation, curation and transmission of memory with present‐bound creative, performative, and participatory processes. Recent trends in the democratisation of arts and cultural heritage and the advent of digital media have provided living archives with new creative valences, making them potent means for the performative celebration of the past through contemporary acts of creation and transmission. In this article, I argue that living archives perform a function of social sharing of memory that contributes to building social bonds, community and identity. This potential resides in the capacity of living archives to bring together an archival function, concerned with memory preservation and transmission, with a present‐bound artistic, performative and creative function. I use the term ‘archival performativity’ to denote this dual nature of living archives, and will exemplify this concept by drawing on the analysis of living archives through the twin lenses of performance studies and archival science.
It’s Not Just for the Children: On Engaging Culturally Diverse Families at Museums
Authors: Maldonado Pamela , Nguyen Cecilia
Published: November 2020

This Virtual Issue studies how the museum field has historically prioritized Anglo families in research, exhibit design and programming. The authors pinpoint gaps inCurator’s archive on this topic, with few research articles focusing on families representing diverse cultures and identities. Recent literature features inclusive approaches to research on family learning, and by extension, how museums can serve culturally diverse families. Through their analysis, the authors show that museums’ ability to work with all families will hinge not only on adopting specific techniques, but also on taking a new perspective on the rich variety of families in light of trends in population demographics and the implications on museum visitorship.
Thyroid metastasis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma with EGFR G719A mutation: Genetic confirmation with liquid‐based cytology specimens
Authors: Yamada Yosuke , Shirahase Hiroyuki , Fukiya Mika , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Ozasa Hiroaki , Haga Hironori
Published: November 2020

Presented is a case of advanced pulmonary adenocarcinoma and a thyroid tumour with calcification. EGFR gene mutation testing of the thyroid aspirate specimen revealed a G719A point mutation in exon 18 that was identical to that in the patient's known lung cancer. This case demonstrates the usefulness of liquid‐based cytology samples, which enable genetic testing leading to a conclusive diagnosis while preserving the cytological specimens.
Fractured alveolar process displacement evaluation—Effect of the rigidity of wire‐composite splints
Authors: Paz João Lucas Carvalho , Soares Carlos José , Rodrigues Jessica Ferreira , de Araújo Almeida Guilherme , Soares Priscilla Barbosa Ferreira
Published: November 2020

Backgrounds/Aims

Traumatic dental injuries with bone fractures require rigid splinting. The degree of rigidity of the wire‐composite splints can be challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the rigidity of different wire‐composite splints on alveolar process displacement.

Material and Methods

A model was created using polystyrene resin to simulate the anterior maxilla, bovine incisors to simulate maxillary incisors, and polyether impression material to simulate the periodontal ligament. An alveolar process fracture was created, while maintaining the labial bone connection with the PDL. Four wire‐composite splints (0.3, 0.6, 0.9, and 1.2 mm in diameter) were compared with models without splints and with no fracture (n = 5). The alveolar process displacement was measured (3 times per model/per splint type) at the fractured and adjacent central incisor regions using a deflectometer (Instron) under functional cycling and static loading (100 N). Data (μm) were analyzed using RM ANOVA, followed by Tukey's HSD test (α = 0.05).

Results

The displacement at the region of the adjacent incisor was not influenced by the splint during static and cycling load (P > .05). The Tukey test demonstrated that the model without splints had significantly higher alveolar process displacement at the traumatized teeth than that of all other splint models (P < .001). Increasing the wire diameter from 0.3 mm to 0.9 mm significantly reduced the alveolar process displacement (P < .001). No difference was observed between the 0.9 mm (P = .123) and 1.2 mm (P = .219) wire‐composite splints irrespective of the measured tooth regions.

Conclusions

The rigidity of the wire‐composite splint significantly influenced the mobility of the fractured alveolar process. The use of at least 0.9 mm wire was effective in reducing the fractured alveolar process displacement to a level that was similar to the adjacent teeth.
Factors influencing the long‐term hospitalization of bicyclists and motorcyclists with oral and maxillofacial injuries
Authors: Hirobe Yu , Koshinuma Shinya , Nakamura Mami , Baba Mineko , Yamamoto Gaku , Hitosugi Masahito
Published: November 2020

Background/Aim

Because bicyclists and motorcyclists with oral and maxillofacial injuries often suffer from disabilities requiring long‐term treatment, reducing the severity of such injuries is a valuable objective for improving these people's quality of life (QOL). The aims of this study were, first, to present the prevalence and patterns of oral and maxillofacial injuries of bicyclists and motorcyclists and to compare the features of these injuries and, second, to determine the factors contributing to long‐term hospitalization for these patients and to propose effective preventive measures.

Material and Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective analysis. Hospital records from 2011 through 2018 were reviewed for all patients who had sustained oral and maxillofacial injuries in bicycle or motorcycle collisions and had presented at a university hospital which was the only hospital in the region attended 24 hours per day by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Characteristics of the oral and maxillofacial injuries, injury severity, and factors influencing the length of hospitalization were examined.

Results

Records of 130 patients (82 bicyclists and 48 motorcyclists) with a mean age of 28.0 years were analyzed. Thirty‐three patients (25.4%) had maxillofacial fractures, with 41 fracture lines while 103 patients (79.2%) had dental injuries and 57 patients (43.8%) had soft‐tissue injuries. The distribution and prevalence of oral and maxillofacial injuries were similar for bicyclists and motorcyclists. However, motorcyclists had significantly higher Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) scores for facial injuries and the maximum AIS score than did bicyclists. According to a multiple regression analysis, the number of fracture lines and the requirement for intermaxillary fixation were independent factors influencing long‐term hospitalization (standard regression coefficients: 6.795 and 6.715, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusions

The number of fracture lines and the use of intermaxillary fixation were independent factors influencing long‐term hospitalization of both bicyclists and motorcyclists with oral and maxillofacial injuries.
Is the human model RPTEC/TERT1 a relevant model for assessing renal drug efflux?
Authors: Saib Sonia , Hodin Sophie , He Zhiguo , Delézay Olivier , Delavenne Xavier
Published: November 2020

Active tubular secretion plays a major role in renal excretion of drugs thanks to the presence of many membrane transporters such as ABC transporters. These proteins facilitate drug transfer into the urine and could be a source of pharmacokinetic variabilities. Up to now, several human in vitro models of proximal tubule have been proposed but few of them have been characterized for predicting drugs renal efflux. The aim of this study was to determine whether the human model RPTEC/TERT1 meets all the criteria expected of a good model to assess renal drug transport. First, in vitro barrier properties were investigated. Then, the expression of several ABC transporters was assessed by immunofluorescence and relative quantification by liquid chromatography—high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS) in comparison to the MDCK model. Finally, bidirectional transport studies were performed to evaluate the functionality of transporters and the abilities of model to discriminate several drugs. The RPTEC/TERT1 model formed a tight structure (192 Ω.cm2) that was confirmed by paracellular permeability assays. Proteomic analysis and immunofluorescence staining showed the expression of several ABC transporters. Then, only the functionality of P‐gp was confirmed by the active efflux of apixaban in this study. In addition, the RPTEC/TERT1 model presents the key criteria of a renal barrier and expresses several ABC transporters. Nevertheless, the BCRP and MRP’s functionality was not confirmed and further investigations are required to valid this model as in vitro model for assessing renal drug efflux.
Biological variation data and analytical specification goal estimates of the thrombin generation assay with and without thrombomodulin in healthy individuals
Authors: Mairesse Antoine , Bayart Jean‐Louis , Desmet Sandrine , Lopes Dos Santos Helder , Saussoy Pascale , Defour Jean‐Philippe , Eeckhoudt Stéphane , van Dievoet Marie‐Astrid
Published: November 2020

Background

Evaluation of an individual’s thrombin‐generating capacity enables a global assessment of the coagulation cascade and is therefore thought to better reflect the clotting function of blood. However, the lack of standardization still hampers the use in routine clinical practice.

Methods

Nineteen healthy subjects were sampled once a week for 5 consecutive weeks. Thrombin generation assay (TGA) was performed in duplicate by calibrated automated thrombogram (CAT) on platelet poor plasma with and without thrombomodulin. After exclusion of outliers, a nested analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to evaluate the biological variability (BV) results. Analytical variation (CVA), within‐individual variation (CVI), between‐individual variation (CVG), index of individuality (II), and reference change value (RCV) were calculated.

Results

All parameters taken together, the CVA, CVI, and CVG without TM, ranged from 2.8% to 6.5%, from 4.1% to 13.3% and from 10.4% to 28.4%, respectively. For TG with TM, CVI and CVG were higher and ranged from 5.0% to 18.1% and from 14.9% to 35.3%, respectively. For endogenous thrombin potential (ETP), a CVI of 4.1% and CVG of 10.4% were obtained without addition of thrombomodulin (TM). With addition of TM, both CVI and CVG were higher: 14.0% and 34.8%, respectively. The II was low and the RCV ranged from 17.2% to 50.4%.

Conclusion

CAT parameters are highly individualized and population‐based reference values could be called into question. The assessment of BV and RCV for thrombin generation assays could optimize interpretation of serial patient results and guide setting of analytical specification goals.
An assay to investigate factors influencing initial orientation in nocturnally fledging seabirds
Authors: Syposz Martyna , Padget Oliver , Wynn Joe , Gillies Natasha , Fayet Annette L. , Guilford Tim
Published: November 2020

The first solitary migration of juvenile birds is difficult to study because of a low juvenile survival rates and sometimes long delays in return to the breeding grounds. Consequently, little is known about this crucial life event for many bird species, in particular the sensory guidance mechanisms facilitating the first migratory journey. Initial orientation during the first migration is a key measure to investigate these mechanisms. Here, we developed an assay to measure initial orientation as flight direction upon first take‐off in nocturnally fledging juvenile seabirds. We dorsally deployed a coloured LED on juvenile birds to allow researchers to observe the vanishing bearings of individuals as they flew out to sea. Additionally, we co‐deployed either a small Neodymium magnet or glass bead (control) on top of the bird's head to investigate the use of magnetoreception, previously unexplored in this early life stage.

We used this assay to observe the first flight of Manx shearwatersPuffinus puffinusand found that they did not orient towards their wintering ground straight after taking off. Further, we did not find an effect of the magnetic treatment on juveniles' flight direction, though whether this is due to the birds not using magnetoreception, other salient cues being available or a lack of motivation to orient to the migratory beeline is unclear. We were, however, able to identify wind direction and topography as drivers of first flight direction in Manx shearwaters, which fledged with wind component between a crosswind and a tailwind and directed their maiden flight towards the sea and away from the land.

This novel assay will facilitate the study of the maiden flight of nocturnally fledging birds and will help advance the study of sensory guidance mechanisms underpinning migratory orientation in a wide range of taxa, including species which are traditionally challenging to study.
The pitfalls and virtues of population genetic summary statistics: Detecting selective sweeps in recent divergences
Authors: Schneider Kevin , White Tom J. , Mitchell Sonia , Adams Colin E. , Reeve Richard , Elmer Kathryn R.
Published: November 2020

During evolution, genomes are shaped by a plethora of forces that can leave characteristic signatures. A common goal when studying diverging populations is to detect the signatures of selective sweeps, which can be rather difficult in complex demographic scenarios, such as under secondary contact. Moreover, the detection of selective sweeps, especially in whole‐genome data, often relies heavily on a narrow set of summary statistics that are affected by a multitude of factors, frequently leading to false positives and false negatives. Simulating genomic regions makes it possible to control these demographic and population genetic factors. We used simulations of large genomic regions to determine how different secondary contact and sympatric speciation scenarios affect the footprint of hard and soft selective sweeps in the presence of varying degrees of gene flow and recombination. We explored the ability of an array of population genetic summary statistics to detect the footprints of these selective sweeps under specific demographies. We focussed on metrics that do not require phased data or ancestral sequences and therefore have wide applicability. We found that a newly developed beta diversity measure, utperformed all other metrics in detecting selective sweeps and that FST also performed well. High accuracy was also found in and genotype distance‐derived metrics. The performance of most metrics strongly depended on factors such as the presence of an allopatric phase, migration rates, recombination, population growth, and whether the sweep was hard or soft. We provide suggestions for locating and analysing the response to selective sweeps in whole‐genome data.
Analytics with artificial intelligence to advance the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Zhang Zhongheng , Navarese Eliano Pio , Zheng Bin , Meng Qinghe , Liu Nan , Ge Huiqing , Pan Qing , Yu Yuetian , Ma Xuelei
Published: November 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) has found its way into clinical studies in the era of big data. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinical syndrome that encompasses a heterogeneous population. Management of such heterogeneous patient population is a big challenge for clinicians. With accumulating ALI datasets being publicly available, more knowledge could be discovered with sophisticated analytics. We reviewed literatures with big data analytics to understand the role of AI for improving the caring of patients with ALI/ARDS. Many studies have utilized the electronic medical records (EMR) data for the identification and prognostication of ARDS patients. As increasing number of ARDS clinical trials data is open to public, secondary analysis on these combined datasets provide a powerful way of finding solution to clinical questions with a new perspective. AI techniques such as Classification and Regression Tree (CART) and artificial neural networks (ANN) have also been successfully used in the investigation of ARDS problems. Individualized treatment of ARDS could be implemented with a support from AI as we are now able to classify ARDS into many subphenotypes by unsupervised machine learning algorithms. Interestingly, these subphenotypes show different responses to a certain intervention. However, current analytics involving ARDS have not fully incorporated information from omics such as transcriptome, proteomics, daily activities and environmental conditions. AI technology is assisting us to interpret complex data of ARDS patients and enable us to further improve the management of ARDS patients in future with individual treatment plans.
Using behavioural skills training via telehealth to increase teachers use of communication interventions and increase student use of speech‐generating devices in a high school functional skills classroom
Authors: Carnett A. , Hansen S. , Tullis C. , Machalicek W.
Published: November 2020

Background

Behavioural skills training (BST) has demonstrated effectiveness in training teachers in evidence‐based interventions to increase communication for children with limited repertoires. However, research has yet to extend to youth with developmental disabilities who are learning to communicate using speech‐generating devices. The emergent use of telehealth technology in applied behaviour analysis has been associated with greater access to therapeutic services. Although the use of telehealth has been extended as an avenue for parents to access behavioural intervention services for their child, fewer studies have evaluated the use of telehealth for teacher behavioural consultation or with adolescents and young adults with complex communication needs.

Method

In the present study, four teaching staff were trained via telehealth to implement communication facilitation strategies with augmentative and alterative communication users in a high school functional skills classroom. During the coaching sessions, the staff were provided BST on the basic behaviour analytic teaching strategies (e.g. assessing preference, environmental arrangement, and reinforcement strategies). Independent adapted ABAB designs were used to evaluate the effectiveness of modified BST delivered via telehealth on increased teaching staff‐implemented communication opportunities within the functional skills classroom and the effectiveness of staff‐implemented communication intervention on increased speech‐generating device mands for four adolescents/young adults with developmental disabilities.

Results

The results indicated that the improved staff fidelity of the communication interventions was associated with the increased level of independent student mands for each dyad. Lastly, social validity data suggest that the procedures were acceptable and feasible. These data indicate that the use of telehealth may be a viable model for specialised classroom consultation.

Conclusion

The use of a telehealth delivery model to train classroom staff may be a viable option when specialised support is necessary, but access is limited.
Fractional CO2 laser therapy for cesarean scar under the guidance of multiple evaluation methods: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Nan , Yu Xin , Zhao Jingchun , Yu Jiaao , Shi Kai , Liu Tongjun
Published: November 2020

Aims

To introduce the treatment experience of fractional CO2 laser for cesarean scar under the guidance of multiple evaluation methods.

Methods

Cesarean scar patients receiving fractional CO2 laser therapy between January 2016 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. The demographic characteristics and treatment protocols, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), the University of North Carolina “4P” Scar Scale (UNC4P), and the Antera3D score of all the enrolled patients were recorded.

Results

Altogether, 79 cesarean scar patients were involved in this study, with the average age of 28.1 years, the average scar age and length of 26.5 (range, 24‐30) months and 8.5 (range, 7‐11) cm, respectively. Significant improvements were observed in VSS (t = 16.75, P < .05), UNC4P (t = 15.63, P < .05), and Antera3D score (color:t = 13.19, P < .05; texture: t = 13.12, P < .05; melanin: t = 3.89, P < .05; hemoglobin: t = 2.28, P < .05). No long‐term complication was reported during the follow‐up visits.

Conclusions

Fractional CO2 laser therapy is an effective treatment for cesarean scar. The multiple evaluation methods, including the combined application of VSS, UNC4P, and Antera3D score, can be potentially used for guiding treatment protocols and evaluating efficacy. Meanwhile, rhGM‐CSF hydrogel provides another choice for laser wound management.
Public Thrift, Private Perks: Signaling Board Independence with Executive Pay
Authors: RUIZ‐VERDÚ PABLO , SINGH RAVI
Published: November 2020

We analyze how boards' reputational concerns influence executive compensation and the use of hidden pay. Independent boards reduce disclosed pay to signal their independence, but are more likely than manager‐friendly boards to use hidden pay or to distort incentive contracts. Stronger reputational pressures lead to lower disclosed pay, weaker managerial incentives, and higher hidden pay, whereas greater transparency of executive compensation has the opposite effects. Although reputational concerns can induce boards to choose compensation contracts more favorable to shareholders, we show that there is a threshold beyond which stronger reputational concerns harm shareholders. Similarly, excessive pay transparency can harm shareholders.
The Impact of Repossession Risk on Mortgage Default
Authors: O'MALLEY TERRY
Published: November 2020

I study the effect of removing repossession risk on a mortgagor's decision to default. Reducing default costs may result in strategic default, particularly during crises when homeowners can be substantially underwater. I analyze difference‐in‐differences variation in repossession risk generated by an unexpected legal ruling in Ireland that prohibited collateral enforcement on delinquent residential mortgages originated before a particular date. I estimate that borrowers defaulted by 0.3 percentage points more each quarter after the ruling, a relative increase of approximately one‐half. High loan‐to‐value ratios and low liquidity are associated with a larger treatment effect, suggesting both equity and consumption‐based motivations.
Reviewing Directors’ Business Judgements: Views from the Field
Authors: KEAY ANDREW , LOUGHREY JOAN , McNULTY TERRY , OKANIGBUAN FRANCIS , STEWART ABIGAIL
Published: November 2020

Directors take decisions that can have significant impacts on others, as illustrated by the global financial crisis and the collapse of Thomas Cook Group plc. Yet many academics argue that courts should not review or impose liability on directors for poor business judgements. These arguments often rely on untested empirical assumptions about directors’ behaviour and attitudes. Through semi‐structured interviews and focus groups, we explored the responses of directors, legal practitioners, company secretaries, and board headhunters to the prospect of judicial review of directors’ business judgements. Our findings challenge orthodox thinking: many directors supported some form of review and the impact of review may not be as great as the literature predicts, nor necessarily detrimental. The debate about whether courts should review directors’ business judgements should therefore move away from reliance on negative empirical assumptions about the impact of review, to clearly articulating, and engaging with, normative positions that underpin opposition to, and support for, review.
Research to Translation: The Healthy Schools Toolkit and New Approaches to the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child Model
Authors: Purnell Jason Q. , Lobb Dougherty Nikole , Kryzer Emily K. , Bajracharya Smriti , Chaitan Veronica L. , Combs Todd , Ballard Ellis , Simpson Allie , Caburnay Charlene , Poor Timothy J. , Pearson Charles J. , Reiter Crystal , Adams Kelvin R. , Brown Michael
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

The Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model is an evidence‐based comprehensive framework to address health in schools. WSCC model use improves health and educational outcomes, but implementation remains a challenge.

METHODS

Working with 6 schools in 2 districts in the Midwest, we used a mixed‐methods approach to determine the people, systems, and messages needed to activate WSCC implementation. We report on social network analysis and message testing findings and research translation to develop the Healthy Schools Toolkit.

RESULTS

Social networks for both districts included more than 150 individuals. Both demonstrated network densities less than half of the desirable threshold, with evidence of clustering by role and minimal cross‐school relationships, posing challenges for WSCC implementation. Across stakeholder groups, messages that emphasize empathy, teamwork, and action were well‐received, especially when shared by trusted individuals through communication channels that align with stakeholder needs.

CONCLUSIONS

The Healthy Schools Toolkit provides an example of a translational product that helps to bridge research with practice. With features that highlight 6 design principles, the toolkit provides complementary activities that schools and districts can use as they plan for integration of the WSCC model.
Applying a Structural‐Competency Framework to the Implementation of Strategies to Reduce Disparities for Sexual and Gender Minority Youth
Authors: Shattuck Daniel G. , Willging Cathleen E. , Green Amy E.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) are at high risk for adverse health outcomes. Safer schools decrease this risk. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified 6 practices that can make schools safer for SGMY, yet few US schools implement them all. We apply a structural competency framework to elucidate factors contributing to this implementation gap.

METHODS

We conducted 75 interviews and 32 focus groups with school professionals in 18 New Mexico high schools to assess factors impacting implementation of the practices over 2 years. We analyzed data using iterative coding, thematic identification techniques, and the sensitizing concept of structural competency.

RESULTS

Themes included: rendering an invisible population visible; critical thinking about LGBTQ inequalities; building school personnel capacity; intersecting cultural, religious, and political conflicts; and tackling community‐based sources of stigma and discrimination.

Conclusions

Underlying cultural and structural forces render SGMY invisible and constrain what schools can accomplish. Professional development encouraging critical thinking about structural inequities is foundational, but efforts to close the implementation gap must attend to structural forces producing disparities for SGMY. Structural competency can strengthen the ability of the Whole School, Whole Community, and Whole Child model's cross‐sector coordination of policy and process to meet the needs of every student.
The new age of renal biomarkers: does SDMAsolve all of our problems?
Authors: Sargent H. J. , Elliott J. , Jepson R. E.
Published: November 2020

Within clinical small animal practice, diagnosis of both chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury is common. To assess renal function, measurement of glomerular filtration rate is considered the gold standard. Currently, routine tests of kidney function include surrogate markers of glomerular filtration rate such as serum creatinine, and urea, each with their own limitations, whilst urine protein to creatinine ratio gives an indication of glomerular and tubular handling of protein, and urine specific gravity information about urine concentrating ability by the kidney. These parameters are used together with historical and physical examination data to give a diagnosis of kidney disease following which creatinine, proteinuria and blood pressure are used to stage chronic kidney disease and, together with urine output, grade acute kidney injury according to the International Renal Interest Society. However, there has been much concern that creatinine is insensitive when used to indicate early decline in renal function and this has highlighted the need for additional methods of diagnosing and monitoring these patients, with the potential to allow earlier therapeutic intervention. Symmetric dimethylarginine is a novel biomarker, which has been shown to perform as a surrogate marker of glomerular filtration rate in small animals. This article will review current research on symmetric dimethylarginine and the ways in which it may be utilised in small animal practice; current research supports the use of symmetric dimethylarginine as a screening test for detection of early chronic kidney disease according to International Renal Interest Society guidelines, but further research is required in to the usefulness of symmetric dimethylarginine as a tool for monitoring disease and the effect of non‐renal influences.
The Relationship between Behavioral Inattention, Meta‐Attention, and Graduate Students' Online Information Seeking
Authors: Burek Brittany , Martinussen Rhonda
Published: November 2020

Success in postsecondary education requires proficiency with academic online information seeking. Navigating the internet to find information is a complicated task that is vulnerable to lapses in attention. This study examined the relationships among Canadian graduate students' self‐reported behavioral inattention symptoms, awareness and regulation of attentional focus (meta‐attention), and online academic information seeking abilities. One‐hundred and thirteen (99 female) graduate students (83 master's level, 27 doctoral level) completed an online self‐report questionnaire examining domain‐ and strategic‐experience, behavioral inattention symptoms, meta‐attention, and online information seeking ability. Results indicated that self‐reported inattention symptoms, both components of meta‐attention and domain experience each significantly predicted unique variance in online information seeking ability. Implications for research and intervention are discussed.
Gene expression links genotype and phenotype during rapid adaptation
Authors: Josephs Emily B.
Published: November 2020

Natural environments can change quickly and organisms living in these environments can either move, go extinct, or persist through rapid adaptation. Understanding the genetic and phenotypic changes that occur during rapid adaptation is crucial for predicting how populations will respond to sudden environmental changes. Since gene expression links genotype to phenotype, determining how rapid adaptation shapes the transcriptome will be useful for identifying both the traits and the genes important for adaptation, especially in cases where adaptation involves changes in quantitative traits. However, we lack a clear understanding of how rapid adaptation can cause and be caused by changes in gene expression. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Hamann et al. (2020) investigate how gene expression has evolved during rapid adaptation to drought in two populations of the plant species Brassica rapa.