bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment of a desert foundation species is limited by exotic plants and light but not herbivory or water
Authors: Filazzola Alessandro , Brown Charlotte , Westphal Michael , Lortie Christopher J.
Published: July 2020

Questions

The biodiversity of deserts is becoming increasingly threatened due to global change including the introduction of invasive species. Desert shrubs are foundational species that can facilitate native plant communities but can also benefit exotic species. The influence of exotic plants on the establishment of benefactors from seeds or seedlings is a critical knowledge gap. We tested if the establishment, survival, or growth of seedlings for a benefactor shrub species in California was reduced by the invasive grasses that they facilitate in the field.

Location

San Joaquin Desert, California, USA.

Methods

We conducted a field survey to determine if a native shrub, Ephedra californica, facilitated the invasive grass Bromus madritensis. Using seed collected from the field, we conducted a competition experiment on Ephedra californica, using a densities series of Bromus madritensis and under manipulated conditions of light, water, and simulated herbivory. We measured seedling establishment, survival, and biomass of Ephedra californica and Bromus madritensis.

Results

In the field, Ephedra californica facilitated Bromus madritensiswithin the shrub canopy. In the competition experiment, Bromus madritensishad consistent negative effects on Ephedra californica emergence and seedling survival at all resource and herbivory levels. The emergence and survival of Ephedra californica was reduced in low light, but none of the manipulated conditions increased the competitive effect of Bromus madritensis.

Conclusions

Reciprocal costs of facilitation by shrubs were evident in emergence and seedling survival but not in growth once established. Water, herbivory, and shade did not mitigate these costs, but also did not exacerbate competition from exotics. Direct competition with exotic plant species is the most significant impact tested here on dryland shrub species and manipulations of resources or herbivory may not effectively promote shrub recruitment. Native shrubs are well adapted to variable desert conditions and could be effective foundational species if invasive grasses are reduced.
Vegetation unit assignments: phytosociology experts and classification programs show similar performance but low convergence
Authors: Maciejewski Lise , Pinto Paulina E. , Wurpillot Stéphanie , Drapier Jacques , Cadet Serge , Muller Serge , Agou Pierre , Renaux Benoît , Gégout Jean‐Claude
Published: July 2020

Aims

Assigning vegetation plots to vegetation units is a key step in biodiversity management projects. Nevertheless, the process of plot assignment to types is usually non‐standardized, and assignment consistency remains poorly explored. To date, the efficiency of automatic classification programs has been assessed by comparing them with a unique expert judgment. Therefore, we investigated the consistency of five phytosociology expert judgments, and the consistency of these judgements with those of automatic classification programs.

Location

Mainland France.

Methods

We used 273 vegetation plots distributed across France and covering the diversity of the temperate and mountainous forest ecosystems of Western Europe. We asked a representative panel of five French organizations with recognized expertise in phytosociology to assign each plot to vegetation units. We provided a phytosociological classification including 228 associations, 43 alliances and eight classes. The assignments were compared among experts using an agreement ratio. We then compared the assignments suggested by three automatic classification programs with the expert judgments.

Results

We observed small differences among the agreement ratios of the expert organizations; a given expert organization agreed with another one on association assignment one time in four on average, and one time in two on alliance assignment. The agreement ratios of the automatic classification programs were globally lower, but close to expert judgments.

Conclusions

The results support the current trend toward unifying the existing classifications and specifying the assignment rules by creating guiding tools, which will decrease inter‐observer variation. As compared to a pool of phytosociology experts, programs perform similarly to individual experts in vegetation unit assignment, especially at the alliance level. Although programs still need to be improved, these results pave the way for the creation of habitat time series crucial for the monitoring and conservation of biodiversity.
Urinary tract stone deaths: data from the Australian and New Zealand Audits of Surgical Mortality
Authors: Galiabovitch Elena , Hansen Dylan , Retegan Claudia , McCahy Philip
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To analyse all mortalities related to surgery for urinary tract calculi in Australia from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2018, and identify common causes, clinical management issues (CMIs), and areas for improvement.

Patients and Methods

All urological‐related deaths reported to the Australian and New Zealand Audit of Surgical Mortality (ANZASM) from 2009 to 2017 were analysed. The Bi‐National Audit of Surgical Mortality (BAS) database was interrogated for any involvement with renal, ureteric or bladder stones and all relevant associated data analysed. Any CMIs documented by the peer reviewers were recorded and compared to those in urology and all of surgery ANZASM data.

Results

Of 1034 total urological deaths, 100 (9.7%) were related to stones. The mean (range) age of patients was 74.4 (21–97) years; 95% of the patients underwent at least one procedure, with 45 (47.4%) of these being elective. Urinary sepsis was responsible for 49.5% of the deaths, with 20% dying of cardiac events. In all, 39% (37/95) of deaths were associated with CMIs, the most common considerations being delays in diagnosis or treatment, perioperative management and inadequate preoperative evaluation. This is a considerably higher percentage than the 26% recorded for the general urology and all surgery national data. Ureterorenoscopy at 54% (12/22) had the highest rate of CMIs.

Conclusion

Death related to stone surgery represents only a small proportion of all urological surgical deaths, but generates more CMIs amongst ANZASM peer assessors. Results could be improved with more rapid diagnosis and treatment. Careful case selection and access to all treatment options are recommended.
A risk calculator predicting recurrence in lymph node metastatic penile cancer
Authors: Bandini Marco , Spiess Philippe E. , Pederzoli Filippo , Marandino Laura , Brouwer Oscar R. , Albersen Maarten , Roussel Eduard , de Vries Hielke M. , Chipollini Juan , Zhu Yao , Ye Ding‐Wei , Ornellas Antonio A. , Catanzaro Mario , Hakenberg Oliver W. , Heidenreich Axel , Haidl Friederike , Watkin Nick , Ager Michael , Ahmed Mohamed E. , Karnes Jeffrey R. , Briganti Alberto , Salvioni Roberto , Montorsi Francesco , Azizi Mounsif , Necchi Andrea
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To develop and externally validate a risk calculator for prediction of any cancer recurrence in patients with penile squamous cell carcinoma (pSCC) and inguinal lymph node metastases (ILNM), as to date no validated prognostic tool is available for patients with pSCC and ILNM.

Patients and Methods

The development cohort included 234 patients from seven referral centres. The external validation cohort included 273 patients from two additional referral centres. Cox regression identified predictors of any recurrence, which were used to develop a risk calculator. The risk‐calculator grouped the development and the validation cohorts according to the individual risk of any recurrence at 24 months (24m‐R). Adjuvant treatment effects were tested on overall survival (OS) according to the derived tertiles, within the development and validation cohorts.

Results

Positive surgical margins, pN3, and ILNM ratio were associated with higher recurrence rate. The 2‐year OS rates were lower for patients with high (>37%) and intermediate (19–37%) compared to low (<19%) 24m‐R risk of recurrence, for both the development (43% and 58% vs 83%, P < 0.001) and validation cohort (44% and 50% vs 85%, P < 0.001). Results were confirmed in the subgroup of patients who did not receive adjuvant treatment (P < 0.001), but not in patients who did receive adjuvant treatments in both the development and validation cohorts (P > 0.1).

Conclusion

Adjuvant treatment planning is crucial in patients with pSCC with ILNM, where only weak evidence is available. The current tool proved to successfully stratify patients according to their individual risk, potentially allowing better tailoring of adjuvant treatments.
The molecular etiology of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Smith Adam R. , Mill Jonathan , Lunnon Katie
Published: July 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing global healthcare epidemic. Owing to advances in technology, genome‐scale studies of various layers of molecular information have been undertaken in recent years and robust variation in key loci have now been published and reproduced by others. This mini‐symposium highlights four key areas of current research in the field of molecular biology in AD, including articles focused on large‐scale genomic profiling, epigenetic research, integrative multi‐omic approaches and how these can be appropriately modeled to address reverse causality. This mini‐symposium provides a timely update on research focused on elucidating the molecular etiology of AD to date and highlights new methodological advances that could enable neuroscientists to identify novel therapeutic targets.
Epigenome‐wide association studies in Alzheimer’s disease; achievements and challenges
Authors: van den Hove Daniel L. A. , Riemens Renzo J. M. , Koulousakis Philippos , Pishva Ehsan
Published: July 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a devastating progressive neurodegenerative disease with a complex pathophysiology, affecting millions of people worldwide. Recent epigenome‐wide association studies suggest a key role for epigenetic mechanisms in its development and course. Despite the fact that current evidence on the role of epigenetic dysregulation in aging and AD is convincing, the pioneering field of neuroepigenetics is still facing many challenges that need to be addressed to fundamentally increase our understanding about the underlying mechanisms of this neurodegenerative disorder. This perspective paper describes the current state of play for epigenetic research into AD and discusses how new methodological advances in the field of epigenetics and related data science disciplines could further spur the development of novel therapeutic agents and biomarker assays.
The Svalbard Eocene‐Oligocene (?) Central Basin succession: Sedimentation patterns and controls
Authors: Helland‐Hansen William , Grundvåg Sten‐Andreas
Published: July 2020

A synthesis has been undertaken based on regionally compiled data from the post early Eocene foreland basin succession of Svalbard. The aim has been to generate an updated depositional model and link this to controlling factors. The more than kilometer thick progradational succession includes the offshore shales of the Gilsonryggen Member of the Frysjaodden Formation, the shallow marine sandstones of the Battfjellet Formation and the predominantly heterolithic Aspelintoppen Formation, together recording the progressive eastwards infill of the foredeep flanking the West Spitsbergen fold‐and‐thrust belt. Here we present a summary of the paleo‐environmental depositional systems across the basin, their facies and regional distribution and link these together in an updated depositional model. The basin‐margin system prograded with an ascending shelf‐edge trajectory in the order of 1°. The basin fill was bipartite, with offset stacked shelf and shelf‐edge deltas, slope clinothems and basin floor fans in the western and deepest part and a simpler architecture of stacked shelf‐deltas in the shallower eastern part. We suggest a foredeep setting governed by flexural loading, likely influenced by buckling, and potentially developing into a wedge top basin in the mature stage of basin filling. High‐subsidence rates probably counteracted eustatic falls with the result that relative sea‐level falls were uncommon. Distance to the source terrain was small and sedimentation rates was temporarily high. Time‐equivalent deposits can be found outbound of Stappen High in the Vestbakken Volcanic Province and the Sørvestsnaget Basin 300 km further south on the Barents Shelf margin. We cannot see any direct evidence of coupling between these more southerly systems and the studied one; southerly diversion of the sediment‐routing, if any, may have taken place beyond the limit of the preserved deposits.
Infant and Toddler Child‐Care Quality and Stability in Relation to Proximal and Distal Academic and Social Outcomes
Authors: Bratsch‐Hines Mary E. , Carr Robert , Zgourou Eleni , Vernon‐Feagans Lynne , Willoughby Michael
Published: July 2020

This study considered the quality and stability of infant and toddler nonparental child care from 6 to 36 months in relation to language, social, and academic skills measured proximally at 36 months and distally at kindergarten. Quality was measured separately as caregiver–child verbal interactions and caregiver sensitivity, and stability was measured as having fewer sequential child‐care caregivers. This longitudinal examination involved a subsample (N = 1,055) from the Family Life Project, a representative sample of families living in rural counties in the United States. Structural equation modeling revealed that children who experienced more positive caregiver–child verbal interactions had higher 36‐month language skills, which indirectly led to higher kindergarten academic and social skills. Children who experienced more caregiver stability had higher kindergarten social skills.
Sexual function and depressive symptoms in young women with hypoprolactinaemia
Authors: Krysiak Robert , Kowalcze Karolina , Okopień Bogusław
Published: July 2020

Objective

Dopamine agonist treatment may result in hypersexuality in men. The aim of this study was to investigate for the first time female sexual functioning and depressive symptoms in women with very low prolactin levels.

Design

A prospective case‐control study.

Patients and measurements

The study population consisted of three age‐matched groups of young women with normal, regular menstrual cycles: 15 subjects with cabergoline‐induced hypoprolactinaemia (group A), 25 cabergoline‐treated individuals with prolactin levels within the reference range (group B) and 30 dopamine agonist‐naïve women with normoprolactinemia. Because of low prolactin levels, the dose of cabergoline in group A (but not in group B) was then reduced. Apart from measuring serum levels of prolactin, testosterone, sex hormone‐binding globulin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, estradiol and gonadotropins, at the beginning of the study and 6 months later, all included women filled in questionnaires evaluating female sexual function (FSFI) and depressive symptoms (BDI‐II).

Results

At the beginning of the study, there were no differences between groups B and C in the mean total FSFI score, all domain scores and in the BDI‐II score. In group A, the total FSFI score and domain scores for desire and arousal were lower, while the BDI‐II score was higher than in the remaining study groups. Compared with groups of B and C, women with cabergoline‐induced hypoprolactinaemia were also characterized by lower total testosterone levels and lower values of the free androgen index. Cabergoline dose reduction normalized the FSFI score, desire, arousal, the BDI‐II score, as well as normalized prolactin, total testosterone and the free androgen index.

Conclusions

The obtained results suggest that dopamine agonist‐induced hypoprolactinaemia impairs sexual functioning and well‐being in young women, as well as that these disturbances are secondary to low prolactin levels, not to specific properties of cabergoline.
The risk of chronic kidney disease among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A long‐term population‐based cohort study
Authors: Behboudi‐Gandevani Samira , Amiri Mina , Cheraghi Leila , Amanollahi Soudmand Saber , Azizi Fereidoun , Ramezani Tehrani Fahimeh
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective

Results of studies focusing on chronic kidney disease (CKD) among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are insufficient and controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence rate of CKD in women with PCOS, compared to a control group of healthy women.

Methods

This study was a population‐based cohort study conducted from among 1460 reproductive‐age women including 156 women with PCOS and 1304 controls. Incidence rates per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up were calculated for PCOS and control groups. Cox proportional hazards regression with age as the time‐scale was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals for developing CKD in relation to PCOS in both univariable and multivariable models.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 12.9 years, 330 new cases of CKD were identified, including 25 PCOS women (14.8 per 1000 person‐years; 95% CI, 10‐22) and 305 healthy controls (21.5 per 1000 person‐years; 95% CI, 19.2‐24.1). The results of the Cox model showed that the risk of CKD among women with PCOS and healthy women is comparable and women with PCOS did not have a higher risk of developing CKD compared to healthy women (unadjusted HR: 0.883; 95% CI: 0.587‐1.328; P = .551). The results remained unchanged after adjustment for potential confounders of smoking status, BMI, hypertension and diabetes at baseline and follow‐up of study (multiple adjusted HR: 0.911; 95% CI: 0.600‐1.383; P = .661).

Conclusion

Our population‐based study with a long‐term follow‐up period showed that the risk of CKD in PCOS patients was similar to the general female population. Large studies, with long‐term follow‐up and more diverse phenotypes, are needed to confirm the findings.
Long‐acting porcine ACTH stimulated salivary cortisol in the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency
Authors: George Geena Susan , Jabbar Puthiyaveettil Khadar , Jayakumari Chellamma , John Mathew , Mini Malathi , Thekkumkara Surendran Nair Anish , Das Darvin V. , Gomez Ramesh , Sreenath Ravindranath , Prasad Nandini , Nair Abilash
Published: July 2020

Background

Synacthen stimulated salivary cortisol has been previously evaluated and found beneficial in the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency (AI), especially in situations with altered cortisol‐binding protein (CBG) levels. Unfortunately, Synacthen is not marketed in many parts of the world whereas porcine sequence corticotrophin (Acton Prolongatum) is readily available. This study aimed to find the diagnostic accuracy of Acton prolongatum stimulated salivary cortisol test (APSST) compared to the short synacthen test (SST).

Methods

Consecutive outpatients with suspected AI underwent SST initially, followed by APSST after 3 days. For APSST, saliva was collected at 0, 60 and 120 minutes after administering 30 units Acton Prolongatum intramuscularly. Serum and salivary cortisol were estimated using electrochemiluminescence assay. (Cobas e 411, Elecsys Cortisol II kits)

Results

Sixty‐seven patients with clinically suspected AI were enrolled for the study. Based on SST, 35 patients were classified as having AI [primary AI (n=19) and secondary AI (n=16)] whereas 32 had normal glucocorticoid reserve. The area under receiver operator curve of 0.99 and 0.98 was observed for salivary cortisol values at 60 and 120 minutes, respectively, for APSST. A cut‐off value of 18.5 nmol/L (0.67 µg/dL) and 29.3 nmol/L (1.06 µg/dL) at 60 and 120 minutes, respectively, had a sensitivity as well as specificity of 93%‐100% in diagnosing AI.

Conclusion

Salivary cortisol estimation following stimulation using intramuscular porcine ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone) (30 units) is an economical and accurate alternative to SST in the diagnosis of AI, m and its level of 30 nmol/L or more at 2 hours confirms adrenal sufficiency.
Immediately loaded mini‐implants supporting mandibular overdentures: A one‐year comparative prospective cohort study
Authors: Mifsud David P. , Sammut Edward J. , Degiorgio Jan , Borg Peter , Cortes Arthur R. G. , Attard Nikolai J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Little is known about differences between mini‐implants and conventional immediately loaded implants for overdentures.

Objectives

To compare clinical outcomes using two immediately loaded conventional or mini‐implants for mandibular overdentures.

Materials and Methods

Edentulous patients receiving either conventional (4.1 mm) or mini‐implants (2.9 mm or less), based on available bone width were analyzed. All implants were immediately loaded with mandibular overdentures installed using locator attachments. Digital periapical radiographs for measuring marginal bone loss and clinical outcomes (ie, periodontal probing, plaque, and bleeding indices) were assessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12‐month follow‐up periods.

Results

Fifty patients (25 receiving conventional implants—12 females, mean age of 65.3 ± 7.3 years; and 25 receiving mini‐implants—11 females, mean age of 66.8 ± 8.1 years) was analyzed. Peak insertion torque (P = .001) and bone loss (P = .02), as well as change in plaque (P = .02) and bleeding (P = .04) indices at 12 months differed significantly between groups. Furthermore, linear regression revealed the height of the locator as a risk factor for bone loss (P = .038).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that two mini‐implants are significantly more susceptible to bone loss after immediate loading, for which the height of locator might be considered a risk factor.
Implementation of a clinical pathway for the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Evans S. , Taylor C. , Antoniou A. , Agarwal T. , Burns E. , Jenkins J.T. , Miskovic D.
Published: July 2020

Aim

This report summarizes the early experience of implementing elective colorectal cancer surgery during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A pathway to minimize the risk of including COVID‐19‐positive patients for elective surgery was established. Prioritization and additional safety measures were introduced into clinical practice. Minimal invasive surgery was used where appropriate.

Results

Thirty‐eight patients were prioritized, and 23 patients underwent surgery (eight colon, 14 rectal and one anal cancer). The minimal invasive surgery rate was 78%. There were no major postoperative complications or patients diagnosed with COVID‐19. Histopathological outcomes were similar to normal practice.

Conclusion

A safe pathway to offer standard high‐quality surgery to colorectal cancer patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic is feasible.
A Step toward Standardization: Results of two National Surveys of Best Practices in Donation after Circulatory Death Liver Recovery and Recommendations from The American Society of Transplant Surgeons and Association of Organ Procurement Organizations
Authors: Hobeika Mark J. , Glazner Robert , Foley David P. , Hanish Steven , Loss George , Quintini Cristiano , Eidbo Elling , Zollinger Charles , Ruterbories Jay , Lebovitz Daniel J. , Axelrod David
Published: July 2020

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) liver allografts remain underutilized. Inconsistent processes for DCD procurement may contribute to allograft discard. Optimal surgical and organ procurement organization (OPO) practices for DCD liver recovery should be developed and adopted. DCD practice surveys were distributed to transplant surgeons and OPO leadership. DCD liver recovery best practices were assembled based on survey data, literature review, and subject‐matter expert consensus opinion. Data were obtained from transplant surgeons (n = 188) and OPO leadership (n = 48 OPOs). Surgeons preferred attending physician presence at recovery (72.4%); while only 27.7% of OPOs require this. Pre‐withdrawal communication huddle (Surgeons: 88.7%; OPOs: 93.8%) and administration of pre‐withdrawal heparin (Surgeons: 90.6%; OPOs: 84.8%) are widely accepted. Surgical preference for withdrawal of support is in the operating room (89.3%); OPO practice varies dependent upon hospital and family requirements. Functional donor warm ischemic time (fDWIT) start time is variable, while fDWIT end time is agreed upon as initiation of aortic flush by surgeons (81%) and OPOs (81%). DCD liver recovery practices including mandatory communication huddle, pre‐withdrawal heparin administration, and clearly defined start and end of fDWIT should be implemented nationally. Creating a set of best practices for DCD recovery guidelines is necessary for improving DCD liver utilization.
Diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism on heart rate variability
Authors: Hoshi Rosangela A. , Santos Itamar S. , Dantas Eduardo M. , Andreão Rodrigo V. , Mill José G. , Duncan Bruce B. , Schmidt Maria I. , Lotufo Paulo A. , Bensenor Isabela
Published: July 2020

Background

We aimed to analyse if the effects of coexistent diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism extend to the cardio autonomic nervous system, using heart rate variability baseline data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health.

Materials and Methods

Heart rate variability analyses were performed by linear time and frequency domains in 5‐minute time series collected in the supine position. The associations of diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism with the lowest quartile group for heart rate and the highest quartile group for each heart rate variability parameter were analysed using additive and multiplicative terms in logistic models. For the first approach, the subsample was categorized into four groups: subjects without diabetes and normal thyroid function (controls); subjects without diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism; patients with diabetes and normal thyroid function; and patients with diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism. For the interaction alnalysis, diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism diagnoses were included in separate, along with a multiplicative interaction term between them.

Results

Point odds ratio estimates for the 4th quartiles of heart rate, and 1st quartiles of all heart rate variability measurements were higher for subjects with combined diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism than for diabetes only, independently of main sociodemographic and clinical variables (HR: 8.33 vs 2.63; SDNN: 2.59 vs 1.61; RMSSD: 2.37 vs 1.42; LF: 2.83 vs 1.71; HF: 3.06 vs 1.39), but not independently of HbA1c and TSH. Only the interaction term for the association with heart rate, adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical variables, had borderline statistical significance.

Conclusion

Diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism exert a potential joint impact on cardiac autonomic control, showed by additive effects between diabetes and subclinical hypothyroidism, as well as a significant interaction term for the association with heart rate.
Sitting Still and Reading: Rethinking the Role of Literary Fiction in Civics Education
Authors: Schultz Annie
Published: July 2020

In this article Annie Schultz argues that engaging with narratives of resistance and empowerment in literary fiction makes for an important addition to the practice of political education. She is interested, in particular, in what can be gained from the thoughtful contemplation modeled by the inner monologues of literary narrators. Many writers of fiction have turned the inner lives of oppressed characters outward in order for readers to glimpse depictions of moral injustices that mirror those of the real world. Using Ralph Ellison's novel Invisible Man as an example of a literary representation of an existential journey to political consciousness, Schultz explores the imaginative implementation of literature in politically engaged pedagogy that, she argues, results in the development of conscious, articulate citizens.
Synaptic organization of cortico‐cortical communication in primates
Authors: Ashaber Maria , Zalányi László , Pálfi Emese , Stuber István , Kovács Tamás , Roe Anna W. , Friedman Rob M. , Négyessy László
Published: July 2020

In cortical circuitry, synaptic communication across areas is based on two types of axon terminals, small and large, with modulatory and driving roles, respectively. In contrast, it is not known whether similar synaptic specializations exist for intra‐areal projections. Using anterograde tracing and three‐dimensional reconstruction by electron microscopy (3D‐EM), we asked whether large boutons form synapses in the circuit of somatosensory cortical areas 3b and 1. In contrast to observations in macaque visual cortex, light microscopy showed both small and large boutons not only in inter‐areal pathways, but also in long‐distance intrinsic connections. 3D‐EM showed that correlation of surface and volume provides a powerful tool for classifying cortical endings. Principal component analysis supported this observation and highlighted the significance of the size of mitochondria as a distinguishing feature of bouton type. The larger mitochondrion and higher degree of perforated postsynaptic density associated with large rather than to small boutons support the driver‐like function of large boutons. In contrast to bouton size and complexity, the size of the postsynaptic density appeared invariant across the bouton types. Comparative studies in human supported that size is a major distinguishing factor of bouton type in the cerebral cortex. In conclusion, the driver‐like function of the large endings could facilitate fast dissemination of tactile information within the intrinsic and inter‐areal circuitry of areas 3b and 1.
Primary melanotic tumors of the nervous system: a consecutive case series
Authors: Grosshans H. K. , Huttner A. J. , Piepmeier J. M. , Kaulen L. D. , Fulbright R. K. , Baehring J. M. , Karschnia P.
Published: July 2020

Background and purpose

Primary melanotic tumors of the nervous system (PMTNS) are thought to be an exceedingly rare group of tumors not captured by tumor registries. We aimed to determine relative incidence, clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, patient management, and outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively searched the database of the Section of Neuro‐Oncology at the Yale Cancer Center for patients with primary or metastatic melanotic lesions of the nervous system. For patients with PMTNS, we recorded demographic data, clinical presentation, histopathological and imaging findings, therapy, and outcome.

Results

A total of 116 patients with melanotic lesions were identified, including four patients with PMTNS. The relative incidence of PMTNS was therefore calculated as 3.4%. Histology of PMTNS patients revealed melanocytoma in three patients and psammomatous melanotic schwannoma in one patient. Symptoms were non‐specific and attributed to tumor mass effect. Magnetic resonance imaging showed hyperintensity on pre‐contrast T1‐weighted imaging, hypointensity on T2‐weighted imaging, and homogenous contrast enhancement in all PMTNS patients. Definitive diagnosis was based on tissue analysis, with detection of melanin‐containing cells on conventional histology and S100‐positivity on immunohistochemistry. Molecular analysis for GNAQQ209L mutation assisted in establishing diagnosis when only small amounts of tissue were available. Aggressive surgical treatment showed favorable outcomes in all cases; radiation therapy was used for residual or relapsed disease. The median follow‐up was 7.5 ± 5 years, and all patients were alive on the day of database closure.

Conclusion

Primary melanotic tumors of the nervous system are rare nervous system tumors. Outcome appears excellent, and complete surgical resection may form the basis for favorable outcome. Radiation therapy may represent a therapeutic approach for residual or relapsed disease.
Expanding Possibilities: Flexibility and Solidarity with Under‐resourced Immigrant Families During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Falicov Celia , Niño Alba , D'Urso Sol
Published: July 2020

The novel coronavirus has added new anxieties and forms of grieving to the myriad practical and emotional burdens already present in the lives of underserved and uninsured immigrant families and communities. In this article, we relate our experiences since the COVID‐19 crisis to the lessons we have learned over time as mental health professionals working with families in no‐cost, student‐managed community comprehensive health clinics in academic‐community partnerships. We compare and contrast the learnings of flexibility of time, space, procedures, or attendance we acquired in this clinical community setting during regular times, with the new challenges families and therapists face, and the adaptations needed to continue to work with our clients in culturally responsive and empowering ways during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We describe families, students, professionals, promotoras (community links), and IT support staff joining together in solidarity as the creative problem solvers of new possibilities when families do not have access to Wi‐Fi, smartphones, or computers, or suffer overcrowding and lack of privacy. We describe many anxieties related to economic insecurity or fear of facing death alone, but also how to visualize expanding possibilities in styles of parenting or types of emotional support among family members as elements of hope that may endure beyond these unprecedented tragic times of loss and uncertainty.
Rituals in the Time of COVID‐19: Imagination, Responsiveness, and the Human Spirit
Authors: Imber‐Black Evan
Published: July 2020

Following the format put forth by Imber‐Black and Roberts, I examine daily rituals, family traditions, holidays, and life cycle rituals during the pandemic of COVID‐19. Marked by symbols capable of carrying multiple meanings, symbolic actions, special time and special place, and newly invented and adapted rituals are illustrated through stories of couples, families, and communities.
A Finance Handbook in a Suitcase Part I: A Comparison of Teaching and Learning Experiences in Different Countries
Authors: Nicolini Gianni
Published: July 2020

This article summarizes several teaching experiences that the author, an Italian professor of finance, has had in different countries. In addition, it compares the functioning of different academic environments. The aim is to help scholars who are beginning their academic careers with techniques to take into account the cultural and behavioral differences in different academic environments and countries. Also, the article could help: (i) students who want to study abroad to smooth their transition into a new and different academic system, and (ii) visiting professors that will be teaching abroad for the first time.
Tree planting in organic soils does not result in net carbon sequestration on decadal timescales
Authors: Friggens Nina L. , Hester Alison J. , Mitchell Ruth J. , Parker Thomas C. , Subke Jens‐Arne , Wookey Philip A.
Published: July 2020

Tree planting is increasingly being proposed as a strategy to combat climate change through carbon (C) sequestration in tree biomass. However, total ecosystem C storage that includes soil organic C (SOC) must be considered to determine whether planting trees for climate change mitigation results in increased C storage. We show that planting two native tree species (Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris), of widespread Eurasian distribution, onto heather (Calluna vulgaris) moorland with podzolic and peaty podzolic soils in Scotland, did not lead to an increase in net ecosystem C stock 12 or 39 years after planting. Plots with trees had greater soil respiration and lower SOC in organic soil horizons than heather control plots. The decline in SOC cancelled out the increment in C stocks in tree biomass on decadal timescales. At all four experimental sites sampled, there was no net gain in ecosystem C stocks 12–39 years after afforestation—indeed we found a net ecosystem C loss in one of four sites with deciduous B. pubescens stands; no net gain in ecosystem C at three sites planted with B. pubescens; and no net gain at additional stands of P. sylvestris. We hypothesize that altered mycorrhizal communities and autotrophic C inputs have led to positive ‘priming’ of soil organic matter, resulting in SOC loss, constraining the benefits of tree planting for ecosystem C sequestration. The results are of direct relevance to current policies, which promote tree planting on the assumption that this will increase net ecosystem C storage and contribute to climate change mitigation. Ecosystem‐level biogeochemistry and C fluxes must be better quantified and understood before we can be assured that large‐scale tree planting in regions with considerable pre‐existing SOC stocks will have the intended policy and climate change mitigation outcomes.
Patient with Cluster Headache and Harlequin Sign – Related or Not?
Authors: Van Oosterhout W.P.J.
Published: July 2020

Background

The harlequin sign or syndrome is a rare cranial autonomic condition characterized by unilateral diminished flushing and sweating of the face (and sometimes arm), in response to heat or exercise. It results from autonomic, mainly sympathetic dysfunction. Although the idiopathic form is the most common, underlying structural abnormalities in the head, neck, and thorax need to be excluded.

Methods and Results

Here, we describe the first case of the combination of primary cluster headache and the harlequin syndrome in a 49‐year‐old female patient. The patient presented with a first bout of cluster headache with persisting Horner syndrome and new harlequin sign after the bout. Additional neuroimaging did not reveal underlying pathologies. This report provides an overview of cases from the literature and then discusses the association between primary headaches and the harlequin syndrome. Relevant anatomy, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic options are all considered.

Conclusion

This case reports a rare combination of cluster headache and harlequin sign that warrants further testing to exclude pathology in the brain, neck or mediastinum. It also illustrates the underlying anatomy and physiology of the autonomic nervous system.
Diabetes mellitus and the healing of periapical lesions in root filled teeth: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gupta A. , Aggarwal V. , Mehta N. , Abraham D. , Singh A.
Published: July 2020

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) may affect the healing and survival of root filled teeth with periapical lesions.

Aim

To systematically analyse the available clinical literature to evaluate the association between DM and the prevalence of radiolucent periapical lesions in root filled teeth. The review question was ‘Is there a difference between the root canal treatment healing outcome (in terms of presence or absence of radiolucent periapical lesions) in diabetic and non‐diabetic patients?’.

Data sources

A systematic review of cross‐sectional studies and prospective clinical trials was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist. The review involved a search of the electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus and EBSCO host.

Study eligibility criteria, participants and interventions

The research protocol was previously registered in the International Prospective Register of Ongoing Systematic Reviews (CRD42019130954) and included defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The included studies were related to the root canal treatment outcome in diabetic patients in terms of periapical radiolucent lesions associated with root filled teeth.

Study appraisal and synthesis

The selected studies were critically analysed by two evaluators using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was recognized as the primary outcome variable and measure of the effect for the occurrence of periapical lesions associated with root filled teeth of control and diabetic patients. The random‐effects Mantel–Haenszel method was used, at a 95% confidence interval, to calculate the pooled OR. A funnel plot was created to evaluate possible sources of heterogeneity.

Results

Ten studies published between 1989 and March 2019 were selected after thorough analysis and exclusion according to the strict criteria. Seven cross‐sectional studies, 1 longitudinal and 2 prospective clinical studies were included. The pooled OR was calculated by comparing 773 diabetic subjects and 1133 control subjects. The pooled OR for the observational studies and clinical studies were 1.42 and 6.36, respectively. This value signified a high prevalence of periapical lesions in root filled teeth in diabetic subjects.

Limitations

There are limited prospective clinical trials on this topic. The majority of the included studies are observational.

Conclusions and implications of key findings

The data suggest a strong connection between the presence of periapical radiolucency on root filled teeth amongst diabetics as determined by the pooled OR.
Mechanical investigation of glass ceramic brazed ceramic and steel composites
Authors: Walter Tobias M. , Bucharsky Ethel C. , Schell Karl G. , Hoffmann Michael J.
Published: July 2020

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) convert chemical energy from hydrogen, methane, or other hydrocarbons directly into electrical energy and heat. Advantages are low noise during operation as well as relatively low pollutant emissions. This makes them interesting for stationary applications, eg combined heat and power plants for domestic use and for mobile applications, when there is a demand for integrating auxiliary power units. The high operating temperatures of about 850°C and the simultaneous presence by both, reducing and oxidizing atmospheres place high demands on the components of a SOFC. Due to these requirements, glass‐ceramics are proposed as sealants between interconnector and electrolyte. They provide lower costs and lower weight than commercially used silver solders. Furthermore, they have the following impressive benefits: The sealants are electrical insulating, chemical stable and by careful materials selection and adapted manufacturing processes, they adhere well on steel and on ceramic substrates. In order to characterize the adhesion of glass‐ceramic sealants on steel and on zirconia substrates, layer‐like composites are fabricated by screen‐printing and subsequent sintering in air. It turns out that the formation of crystalline phases at the interface is crucial for the adhesion behavior.
Use of antioxidants for enhancing oxidative stability of bulk edible oils: a review
Authors: Mishra Sumit Kumar , Belur Prasanna D. , Iyyaswami Regupathi
Published: July 2020

Edible oils industry is using synthetic and natural antioxidants to enhance the oxidative stability of bulk edible oils. Due to safety concerns of BHA, BHT and TBHQ, there is an ongoing effort to find an effective and safe replacement. Finding a safe antioxidant or its synergistic mixture, which delays, retard or prevent the oxidation of bulk oil without changing the colour or flavour upon addition is a challenge. In this review, a brief account of chemical basis of oxidative deterioration of the stored oil is given. The effectiveness of most widely experimented antioxidants such as tocopherols, carotenoids, ascorbic acid and its derivatives, lignan compounds, flavonoids, polyphenols and phenolic acids in various edible oils have been reviewed. Further, the synergistic and antagonistic combination of these antioxidants in controlling oxidative degradation of edible oils has been discussed.
Rye secalin characterisation and use to improve zein‐based film performance
Authors: Qazanfarzadeh Zeinab , Kadivar Mahdi , Shekarchizadeh Hajar , Porta Raffaele
Published: July 2020

Rye prolamins (secalin) were extracted, characterised and used as biopolymer source to produce plasticised films, as well as composite films in the presence of corn zein. Secalin film showed lower contact angle values and higher moisture content, solubility and swelling index than zein film, whereas the water vapour permeability of the two films was not different. Also, secalin film exhibited lower tensile strength and Young’s modulus and higher elongation at break. The average functional properties of the secalin/zein blend were morphologically confirmed by SEM analysis of the composite film surface that showed a good miscibility and compatibility of the two different biopolymers. These results indicated that secalin films were less hydrophobic and more flexible than those previously prepared by using other prolamins, whereas a material with hydrophobic features similar to those of zein films and a flexibility comparable to that exhibited by secalin films was obtained by preparing a secalin/zein blend.
SARS‐CoV‐2: An immunogenetics call to arms
Authors: Clark Brendan , Poulton Kay
Published: July 2020

Susceptibility to viral infection, development of immunity, response to treatment and patient clinical outcomes are all under the control of heritable factors in the host. In the context of the current SARS‐Cov‐2 pandemic, this review considers existing immunogenetic knowledge of virus‐immune system interactions. A major focus is to highlight areas in which work is required in order to improve understanding of antiviral immune responses and to move towards improved patient management.
Necrotic cell death increases the release of macrophage migration inhibitory factor by monocytes/macrophages
Authors: Dankers Wendy , Hasnat Md Abul , Swann Vanesa , Alharbi Arwaf , Lee Jacinta PW , Cristofaro Megan A , Gantier Michael P , Jones Sarah A , Morand Eric F , Flynn Jacqueline K , Harris James
Published: July 2020

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a pleiotropic inflammatory molecule with both cytokine and noncytokine activity. MIF is constitutively released from multiple cell types via an unconventional secretory pathway that is not well defined. Here, we looked at MIF release from human and mouse monocytes/macrophages in response to different stimuli. While MIF release was not significantly altered in response to lipopolysaccharide or heat‐killed Escherichia coli, cytotoxic stimuli strongly promoted release of MIF. MIF release was highly upregulated in cells undergoing necrosis, necroptosis and NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent pyroptosis. Our data suggest that cell death represents a major route for MIF release from myeloid cells. The functional significance of these findings and their potential importance in the context of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases warrant further investigation.
Highly tailorable electromechanical properties of auxetic piezoelectric ceramics with ultra‐low porosity
Authors: Tang Haishan , Jiang Xinli , Ling Ling , Li Li , Hu Yujin
Published: July 2020

Conventional porous piezoelectric ceramics can possess superior figures of merit only at very high values of porosity, leading to bad fragileness, small stiffness, low toughness, and the difficulty of polarization. To this end, this study for the first time shows that it is possible that the piezoelectric ceramic with ultra‐low porosity is capable of superior figures of merit based on the concept of auxetic piezoelectric ceramics. Owing to the ultra‐low porosity and auxetic effect, the auxetic piezoelectric ceramic shall also possess larger stiffness, higher toughness, and is more easily polarized. First, the auxetic piezoelectric ceramic with ultra‐low porosity is proposed to achieve highly tunable electromechanical properties on the basis of the rotating square mechanism. Then, using a multiscale finite element method, the effects of geometric architecture and polarization directions on the electromechanical properties including Poisson's ratios, elastic coefficients, piezoelectric stress coefficients, dielectric coefficients, and figures of merit in the auxetic piezoelectric ceramics are investigated in detail. Furthermore, the stress fields in conventional and proposed porous piezoelectric ceramics subjected to mechanical and electrical loads are compared and discussed. Finally, it can be concluded that the auxetic piezoelectric ceramic exhibits (a) giant negative Poisson's ratios (smaller than ), (b) negative elastic coefficients, (c) more extensible, higher piezoelectric sensitivity, lower acoustic impedance, stronger crack resistance than conventional porous piezoelectric ceramics with the same porosity, and (d) larger stiffness than conventional porous piezoelectric ceramics with similar figures of merit.