bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of archives in documenting African National Congress Women’s League records that impacted the development of their records
Authors: Netshakhuma Nkholedzeni Sidney
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the role of archives in documenting African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) records on the liberation struggle of South Africa from 1960 to 1990 with a view to recommending the best method of collection and preservation of archival materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were collected through interviews with purposively selected employees of the African National Congress (ANC), the Nelson Mandela Foundation centre of memory, the national heritage and cultural studies at the University of Fort Hare, the National Archives of South Africa and provincial archives of South Africa. Interview data were augmented through content analysis of ANC documents such as policies, websites and annual reports.

Findings

The study found a gap of documentation of the role of archives in documenting ANCWL’s contribution to the liberation of South Africa. The National Archives of South Africa did not play a meaningful role to document the history of African National Women’s League in the liberation struggle of South Africa. There was also a lack of coordination of community archives that keep ANCWL archives materials. There is a need to embark on oral history and bilateral relations with overseas archival institutions to repatriate ANCWL archives to South Africa. Furthermore, contemporary history records about the ANCWL records need to be listed, arranged and described and made available to the public.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the role played by the National Archives of South Africa and community archives such as the ANC archives, the Mayibuye Centre archives based at the University of Western Cape in documenting ANC and ANCWL and contemporary issues that impact the development of ANCWL records created from 1960 to 1990.

Practical implications

The findings are expected to be instrumental to document the history of women’s struggle for democracy in South Africa. The ANCWL collection may contribute to social cohesion to enable society to understand the role of ANCWL during the struggle for democracy in South Africa. While the literature on women’s archives is limited, there is still much research that needs to be conducted. Increasing the body of research will strengthen understanding of the role of the National Archives of South Africa and community archives on documenting women’s liberation struggle in South Africa.

Social implications

The document of women’s history would enrich the archival collection. This means that records with historical, cultural and social significance will be permanently preserved by archives.

Originality/value

The research appears to be the first of its kind to assess the documentation on the role of archives on documenting ANCWL. The archival heritage of women’s struggle for democracy forms part of the national archival heritage of South Africa as they bridge the gap of undocumented history of South Africa.
Future time perspective and group performance among students
Authors: Gupta Manish , Bakker Arnold B.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study is to understand the mediating role of student engagement between future time perspective and group task performance. In addition, the study examines the interaction effect of group cohesion task with student engagement on group performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 170 (a total of 34 groups of five members each) business management students for three consecutive months. To analyze the data, multi-level modeling was carried out.

Findings

The results of the three-wave multi-level analysis indicate support for the hypotheses and suggest that future time perspective affects group performance through student engagement. Moreover, group cohesion interacts with student engagement to predict group task performance.

Research limitations/implications

The findings show how the application of engagement theory can help in understanding the relationship between two distant variables, namely, future time perspective and group performance.

Practical implications

The educators are encouraged to engage students for facilitating the positive impact of future time perspective on group task performance. The findings also imply that the students with future orientation perform well and thus, the educators may need to teach students to have futuristic perspective.

Originality/value

This study in one of its kinds to test the mediating role of student engagement between future time perspective and group task performance as well as the interaction effect of group cohesion task with student engagement on group performance at both the individual and group level over a period of time.
Changes in multiple environmental factors additively enhance the dominance of an exotic plant with a novel trade‐off pattern
Authors: Qiu Shiyun , Liu Shuangshuang , Wei Shujuan , Cui Xinhong , Nie Ming , Huang Jingxin , He Qiang , Ju Rui‐Ting , Li Bo
Published: March 2020

Whether global changes impact native and exotic species differently is unclear, because the changes may favour both native and exotic species over competitors. Previous studies have mainly focused on the separate effects of different environmental changes, but plant communities are influenced by the changes in multiple environmental factors, and it is still unclear whether native and exotic species respond similar to the combined effects of these factors.

We hypothesized that differences in interspecific trade‐offs between native and exotic species can lead to the dominance of exotic species when the species are simultaneously subjected to multiple environmental changes.

Using coastal saltmarsh plant communities as the study system, we experimentally manipulated flooding and nutrient enrichment, examined the interspecific trade‐offs between competitiveness and stress tolerance for two native and one exotic species, and explored the combined effect of the two environmental changes on both native–native and native–exotic species interactions.

We found that flooding and nutrient enrichment oppositely affected native–native species interactions but additively affected native–exotic species interactions. The two factors together resulted in no net change in the relative advantages between the two native species but enhanced the dominance of the exotic species over the native species. This disparity occurred because the exotic species was not subject to the interspecific trade‐off between competitiveness and stress tolerance that constrained the native species.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that changes in multiple environmental factors favour exotic species because of evolutionary novel trade‐off patterns. Mechanisms underlying species coexistence in the invaded community such as interspecific trade‐offs need to be considered when future attempts are made to predict the effects of global changes on biological invasions.
Do soil‐borne fungal pathogens mediate plant diversity–productivity relationships? Evidence and future opportunities
Authors: van Ruijven Jasper , Ampt Eline , Francioli Davide , Mommer Liesje
Published: March 2020

From the establishment of the first biodiversity experiments in the 1990s, studies have consistently reported positive relationships between plant diversity and productivity in grasslands. However, the predominant hypotheses that may explain this pattern have changed. Initially, there was a strong focus on plant–plant interactions such as facilitation and resource partitioning, but the results from the first experiments that manipulated soil communities have led to a paradigm shift.

In the current view on mechanisms that drive plant diversity–productivity relationships, fungal pathogen‐induced reductions of plant productivity at low diversity play an important role. This role rests on two assumptions: the effects of pathogens (a) are plant‐species specific (i.e. not all plant species are affected equally by a fungal pathogen) and (b) display negative density dependence (i.e. decrease with decreasing host plant density and hence, with increasing plant species richness).

Here, we review the empirical evidence for these two assumptions. In the biodiversity literature, this is mainly based on indirect approaches, such as soil sterilization, plant–soil feedback studies and plant biomass patterns. The identification and functional characterization of the fungal pathogens that actually drive the plant diversity–productivity relationship have only recently started.

Synthesis. Nevertheless, these studies, together with studies on plant–pathogen interactions in agricultural crops and forests, clearly suggest host‐specific, negative density‐dependent effects of fungal pathogens are common. Moreover, recent studies suggest that the reduced impact of pathogens at high plant diversity depends not just on host density but also on effects of neighbouring (non‐host) plant species on the pathogen. Understanding how neighbouring plants affect the interactions between a pathogen and its host plants and disentangling the role of plant–pathogen interactions from other mechanisms potentially driving diversity–productivity relationships are important future challenges.
Levelling Up?
Authors: Tomaney John , Pike Andy
Published: March 2020

‘Levelling up’ is the new UK government mantra to describe its ambitions for addressing longstanding local and regional inequalities and, especially, for tackling the problems of ‘left‐behind’ places. This article examines the thinking behind this slogan and the associated policy agenda. We identify a danger of misdiagnosis leading to policies that do little to ameliorate conditions in the places that most need help. The government’s agenda appears, so far, to be driven by electoral calculation rather than a real engagement with tackling deep inequalities.
The effect of Medicaid expansion on use of opioid agonist treatment and the role of provider capacity constraints
Authors: Gertner Alex K. , Robertson Allison G. , Jones Hendree , Powell Byron J. , Silberman Pam , Domino Marisa E.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of Medicaid expansion on the use of opioid agonist treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) and to examine heterogeneous effects by provider supply and Medicaid acceptance rates.

Data Sources

Yearly state‐level data on methadone dispensed from opioid treatment programs (OTPs), buprenorphine dispensed from OTPs and pharmacies, number of OTPs and buprenorphine‐waivered providers, and percent of OTPs and physicians accepting Medicaid.

Study Design

This study used difference‐in‐differences models to examine the effect of Medicaid expansion on the amount of methadone and buprenorphine dispensed in states between 2006 and 2017. Interaction terms were used to estimate heterogeneous effects. Sensitivity analyses included testing the association of outcomes with Medicaid enrollment and state insurance rates.

Principal Findings

The estimated effects of Medicaid expansion on buprenorphine and methadone dispensed were positive but imprecise, meaning we could not rule out negative or null effects of expansion. The estimated associations between state insurance rates and dispensed methadone and buprenorphine were centered near zero, suggesting that improvements in health coverage may not have increased OUD treatment use. The effect of Medicaid expansion was larger in the states with the most waivered providers compared to states with the fewest waivered providers. In the states with the most waivered providers, the average estimated effect of expansion on buprenorphine dispensed was 12 kg/y, enough to treat about 7500 individuals. We did not find evidence that the effect of expansion was consistently modified by OTP concentration, OTP Medicaid acceptance, or physician Medicaid acceptance.

Conclusions

Gains in health coverage may not be sufficient to increase OUD treatment, even in the context of high treatment need. Provider capacity likely limited Medicaid expansion's effect on buprenorphine dispensed. Policies to increase buprenorphine providers, such as ending the waiver requirement, may be needed to ensure coverage gains translate to treatment access.
Does Private Country‐by‐Country Reporting Deter Tax Avoidance and Income Shifting? Evidence from BEPS Action Item 13
Authors: JOSHI PREETIKA
Published: March 2020

To combat tax avoidance by multinational corporations, the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development introduced country‐by‐country reporting (CbCr), requiring firms to provide tax authorities with a geographic breakdown of their profitability and activities. Treating the introduction of CbCr in the European Union as a shock to private disclosure requirements, this study examines the effect on corporate tax outcomes. Exploiting the €750 million revenue threshold for disclosure and employing regression‐discontinuity and difference‐in‐differences designs, I document a 1–2 percentage point increase in consolidated GAAP effective tax rates among affected firms. I also find evidence consistent with a decline in tax‐motivated income shifting, starting in 2018. These results suggest that, although private geographic disclosures can deter corporate tax avoidance, so far, the regulations have had a limited effect on tax‐motivated income shifting. My findings have policy implications for the global implementation of private CbCr and extend the debate on public versus private disclosure of tax information.
Association of anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies and rheumatoid factor isotypes with HLA‐DRB1 shared epitope alleles in Egyptian rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Raslan Hala M. , Attia Hanaa R. , Hamed Ibrahim Mona , Mahmoud Hassan Eman , Salama Iman I. , Ismail Sherif , Abdelmotaleb Eman , El Menyawi Manal M. , Amr Khalda S.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The most common genetic risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is human leucocyte antigen DRB1 (HLA‐DRB1) shared epitope (SE).

Aim

To investigate the relationship between anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP), rheumatoid factor (RF), immunoglobulin (Ig)G, IgM and IgA and HLA‐DRB1 SE among Egyptian patients with RA.

Methods

Serum levels of anti‐CCP antibodies and RFIgG, RFIgM, RFIgA were assayed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for 157 Egyptian RA patients and 150 healthy controls attending the outpatient clinics of National Research Center and Kasr El Aini Hospital. HLA‐DRB1 genotyping was performed by the DynalAllSetTM polymerase chain reaction (PCR) single specific primer low‐resolution typing kits. Amplified PCR product was checked using 3% agarose gel.

Results

HLA‐DRB1‐SE was found among 129 (82.2%) RA patients and 67 (44.7%) controls (odds ratio [OR] 5.7, CI 3.4‐9.6, P < .0001). The risk of RA development was higher with the presence of SE two alleles (OR 11.6, P < .0001), while the OR for 1 copy SE allele was 4.4 (P < .0001). HLA‐DRB1‐SE was significantly associated with positive as well as negative anti‐CCP and RF isotypes. The stronger association was with anti‐CCP positivity with OR 11 (5.1‐23.6), P < .0001. Furthermore, the risk of development of positive anti‐CCP and RF isotypes was higher with the presence of 2 copies of SE alleles than with 1 copy.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HLA‐DRB1‐SE is high in Egyptian RA patients. The role of SE in RA patients is most probably related to the development of anti‐CCP positive RA rather than the development of anti‐CCP positivity.
Ruminal transcript abundance of the centromere‐associated protein E gene may influence residual feed intake in beef steers
Authors: Rathert A. R. , Meyer A. M. , Foote A. P. , Kern R. J. , Cunningham‐Hollinger H. C. , Kuehn L. A. , Lindholm‐Perry A. K.
Published: March 2020

A better understanding regarding the mechanisms by which the rumen processes feed may assist us in identifying animals with superior feed efficiency. Studies to evaluate the gene expression of rumen tissue have previously been performed to analyze their relationship with feed efficiency. Continuing this research is critical to determine whether the expression of the genes identified is associated with feed efficiency in additional populations of beef cattle to ensure that they are robust across breed and environment. A previous rumen‐transcriptome study on Hereford × Angus steers identified 122 differentially expressed genes (PFDR < 0.05) associated with residual feed intake (RFI), a measure of feed efficiency. The purpose of our study was to test the most divergent, up‐ and down‐regulated genes in the rumen tissue of an unrelated population of Hereford × Angus steers that included two contemporary groups. A total of 13 genes were evaluated by quantitative real‐time PCR. The centromere‐associated protein E (CENPE) gene was expressed in lower concentrations in the rumen epithelium of steers in the more efficient (low RFI) group in both contemporary groups of animals, which was the same as the previous study. In addition, CENPE, a gene involved in chromosome alignment during mitosis, has also been associated with growth traits in cattle and pigs. There was no relationship between the expression of the other 12 genes tested with RFI in the population of steers in this study, which illustrates the importance of validating gene expression data in additional populations.
Onycholemmal variant of keratoacanthoma centrifugum marginatum as an expression of mutated committed stem cells in a conceptual pathway
Authors: Kossard Steven , Amiri Alvand
Published: March 2020

We describe a 43‐year‐old woman with a 10‐year history of grossly hyperkeratotic nodules which progressively extended over the right ring finger. These involuted leaving pale, atrophic skin in their wake. At presentation, the advancing border had an arciform series of nodules in the pattern of keratoacanthoma centrifugum marginatum. The presence of filiform keratinisation that encased the nail plate, gross onychogryphotic masses of keratin on the ventral finger surface and a flat nail‐like plate of keratin on the dorsal finger surface were distinctive features. Skin biopsy showed epidermal acanthosis, gross papillomatous cutaneous horn formation that had onycholemmal features. The pathology differed from keratoacanthoma and was not crateriform or infundibulocystic. Although HPV was not detected on immunohistochemistry, pathogenesis may still represent an HPV‐related transfection of onycholemmal keratin committed stem cells producing an onycholemmal variant of keratoacanthoma centrifugum marginatum. A conceptual model linked to advances in follicular stem cell biology is formulated to explore this case.
Uterine rupture over 11 years: A retrospective descriptive study
Authors: Chang Yu‐Hsing
Published: March 2020

Background

Uterine rupture is a rare obstetric emergency, and the rate of rupture has increased over time with the rising rate of caesarean section (CS) and trial of labour after CS (TOLAC).

Aim

To determine the prevalence, and maternal and neonatal complications associated with complete uterine rupture at a New Zealand (NZ) tertiary referral hospital over an 11‐year period.

Material and Methods

This is a retrospective, observational study. Waikato Hospital records of patients with uterine rupture occurring between 2008 and 2018 were reviewed for risk factors, delivery outcomes, and maternal and neonatal complications.

Results

There were 32 patients with complete uterine rupture in 38 182 births, conferring a prevalence of 8.4 per 10 000 births (95% CI 5.9–11.8). Of the 29 cases occurring during labour, 83% of patients were multiparous, 59% previously had one or two CS; patients with an unscarred uterus had lower rates of emergency CS and high rates of postpartum haemorrhage than patients with a scarred uterus. There were no maternal deaths although three patients required peripartum hysterectomy, 63% required blood transfusion and there were five (16%) perinatal deaths.

Conclusion

The prevalence of uterine rupture in this NZ tertiary hospital is comparable to other developed countries. There was no maternal mortality but there was a 16% perinatal death rate. Patients with spontaneous labour and an unscarred uterus were not exempt from this rare complication. There is a need to manage labour judiciously in all patient groups and to maintain a high level of suspicion for uterine rupture.
Affective Well‐Being, Rumination, and Positive Reappraisal among People Living with HIV: A Measurement‐Burst Diary Study
Authors: Gruszczyńska Ewa , Rzeszutek Marcin
Published: March 2020

Background

Changes of affective well‐being are usually analysed either as longitudinal processes or as daily fluctuations. We used a three‐burst diary study to combine these perspectives.

Method

The participants were 211 patients with a diagnosis of HIV infection. In three bursts with 6‐month intervals, they completed an online diary for five consecutive days, which gives 15 days of measurements. They evaluate affective well‐being (positive and negative affect), stress associated with a central hassle, and coping (rumination and positive reappraisal).

Results

Higher daily stress coupled with higher rumination was related to lower well‐being. For positive reappraisal, the picture was more complex. First, its interaction with daily stress had an effect on negative, but not on positive, affect. Second, this effect was significant only at the first burst.

Conclusions

These results suggest a stable debilitating effect of daily rumination, but a limited and diminishing beneficial effect of daily positive reappraisal among people living with HIV. As such, they do not confirm the view that positive reappraisal sustains affective well‐being during chronic health conditions. This may inform stress management interventions for PLWH, which are now increasingly taking the form of mobile applications, adapted to the daily lives of patients in their natural environment.
Utility of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 as a serum protein biomarker for the early detection of non‐small‐cell lung cancer: A multicenter in vitro diagnostic clinical trial
Authors: Sun Nan , Sun Shouguo , Gao Yibo , Li Yuan , Lu Zhiliang , Yuan Zuyang , Che Yun , Huang Jianbing , Mao Shuangshuang , Lei Yuanyuan , Zang Ruochuan , Li Ning , Cui Wei , Qi Jun , Chen Feng , Gao Jia , Wang Jinling , Min Rong , Chen Yan , Shi Guangli , Tan Fengwei , He Jie
Published: March 2020

We aimed to verify the expression status and diagnostic significance of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially during early stages. Serum IDH1 levels were measured by ELISA. A total of 1223 participants (660 patients with NSCLC, 276 healthy controls [HCs], 95 patients with benign pulmonary conditions [BPCs], 135 patients with other cancers [OCs], and 57 samples with interfering factors) were divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort according to 3 testing centers. The IDH1 concentrations in the NSCLC group were obviously higher than those in the control groups (P < .001). Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) for discriminating NSCLC patients from controls (HC, BPC, and OC) were 0.870 and 0.745 (sensitivity, 63.3% and 55.0%; specificity, 86.8% and 86.3%) in the training cohort and validation cohort, respectively. The AUCs for discriminating stage 0‐IA lung cancer patients from HCs were 0.907 and 0.788 (sensitivity, 58.6% and 59.1%; specificity, 92.9% and 89.3%) in 2 cohorts, respectively. Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 showed specificity for NSCLC and had no diagnostic value for other common cancers. Furthermore, IDH1 was significantly reduced in postoperative serum. Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 shows clinical utility as a serum protein biomarker for the early diagnosis of NSCLC.
Marked neurological and immunological improvement in refractory eosinophilic granulomatous polyangiitis after treatment with mepolizumab, an anti‐interleukin‐5 antibody: A case report
Authors: Yasuda Manato , Sugiyama Atsuhiko , Suichi Tomoki , Misawa Sonoko , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: March 2020

Background

Mepolizumab is an option for add‐on therapy in cases of refractory or relapsing eosinophilic granulomatous polyangiitis (EGPA). However, it has not been fully investigated if add‐on mepolizumab is effective for active refractory or active relapsing EGPA patients with life‐ and/or organ‐threatening manifestations, especially with severe neuropathy.

Case presentation

We herein report on a 63‐year‐old man with severe progressive neuropathy secondary to active relapsing EGPA. In this case, the optimal dose of glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide could not be used because of glaucoma and signet ring cell carcinoma. Add‐on therapy of mepolizumab showed prompt immunological remission and marked improvement in neurological manifestations.

Conclusions

Mepolizumab can be considered as an important induction therapy option for active relapsing or refractory EGPA. It has the potential to effectively improve neurological disturbances associated with severe neuropathy in EGPA.
Fossil and phylogenetic analyses reveal recurrent periods of diversification and extinction in dictyopteran insects
Authors: Condamine Fabien L. , Nel André , Grandcolas Philippe , Legendre Frédéric
Published: March 2020

Variations of speciation and extinction rates determine the fate of clades through time. Periods of high diversification and extinction (possibly mass‐extinction events) can punctuate the evolutionary history of various clades, but they remain loosely defined for many biological groups, especially nonmarine invertebrates like insects. Here, we examine whether the cockroaches, mantises and termites (altogether included in Dictyoptera) have experienced episodic pulses of speciation or extinction and how these pulses may be associated with environmental fluctuations or mass extinctions. We relied on molecular phylogeny and fossil data to shed light on the times and rates at which dictyopterans diversified. The diversification of Dictyoptera has alternated between (i) periods of high diversification in the late Carboniferous, Early–Middle Triassic, Early Cretaceous and middle Palaeogene, and (ii) periods of high extinction rates particularly at the Permian‐Triassic boundary, but not necessarily correlated with the major global biodiversity crises as in the mid‐Cretaceous. This study advocates the importance of analyzing, when possible, both molecular phylogeny and fossil data to unveil diversification and extinction periods for a given group. The causes and consequences of extinction must be studied beyond mass‐extinction events alone to gain a broader understanding of how clades wax and wane.
Glucose and protein metabolic responses to an energy‐ but not protein‐ restricted diet in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Coussa Ayla , Bassil Maya , Gougeon Réjeanne , Marliss Errol B. , Morais José A.
Published: March 2020

Aims

To test the effect of energy restriction with maintained protein intake on body composition and on insulin sensitivity of glucose and protein metabolism in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

After 3 days of an isoenergetic diet with 1.2 g/kg/d protein, obese adults with T2D (three women, two men) followed a 5‐week diet providing 60% of energy requirements with 45% carbohydrate, and with protein maintained at pre‐intervention level. Isotopic tracers were used to quantify whole‐body glucose (3‐3H‐glucose) and protein (13C‐leucine) metabolism pre‐ (day 4) and post‐intervention (day 39), in the postabsorptive state and during a hyperinsulinaemic, isoglycaemic, isoaminoacidaemic clamp. Body composition was measured using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry.

Results

After energy restriction, 6% weight loss occurred via total body (11%) and visceral fat losses (25%), but lean mass was preserved. Fasting glucose level, serum insulin level, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance index and C‐peptide level decreased significantly (29%, 38%, 54% and 38%, respectively) as did other cardiometabolic risk factors. Between clamp studies, postabsorptive protein turnover and oxidation rates decreased (12% and 32%), resulting in less negative net balance, consistent with protein conservation. The rates of glucose turnover decreased, and glucose metabolic clearance rate improved (24%). During the clamp, protein flux was lower (9%) and breakdown suppressed (12%), and net balance became less negative but not different. Although glucose turnover did not differ, metabolic clearance improved by 47%.

Conclusions

In obese adults with T2D, an energy‐restricted diet with maintained protein intake of ~1.2 g/kg/d improved the kinetics of protein metabolism (particularly in the postabsorptive state), and preserved lean body mass and increased glucose metabolic clearance rate.
Conserving the endangered woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi): Establishing a semi‐arid population within a fenced safe haven
Authors: Smith Michael , Volck Georgia , Palmer Nicola , Jackson Chantelle , Moir Carly , Parker Raquel , Palmer Bryony , Thomasz Adele
Published: March 2020

Measuring and monitoring population size and growth are critical to assessing the progress and ultimately the success (or failure) of a reintroduction. The Woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi) is one of Australia's threatened critical weight range mammals. To increase the species' area of occupancy, extent of occurrence, number of sub‐populations and global population size, in addition to creating a source population for future reintroductions, a new population has been re‐established into a safe haven located within the species' former range – Mt Gibson Wildlife Sanctuary. In this paper, we document the first 3 years of the reintroduction programme, over which time 162 individuals were translocated to Mt Gibson. Specifically, we (i) provide information on survivorship, (ii) estimate changes in critical population metrics (density, population size and distribution) and (iii) look for any major habitat preferences. Survivorship of collared animals was complete (i.e. zero mortality). The most recent population estimate was in the order of 750 individuals, reflecting strong growth in population size and density. The woylie has occupied the majority of the safe haven and is well represented in all major vegetation communities. The translocation is on track to meeting the key success criteria: a self‐sustaining population of woylies with a minimum of 300 individuals.
Macroalgal meadow habitats support fish and fisheries in diverse tropical seascapes
Authors: Fulton Christopher J. , Berkström Charlotte , Wilson Shaun K. , Abesamis Rene A. , Bradley Michael , Åkerlund Carolina , Barrett Luke T. , Bucol Abner A. , Chacin Dinorah H. , Chong‐Seng Karen M. , Coker Darren J. , Depczynski Martial , Eggertsen Linda , Eggertsen Maria , Ellis David , Evans Richard D. , Graham Nicholas A. J. , Hoey Andrew S. , Holmes Thomas H. , Kulbicki Michel , Leung Priscilla T. Y. , Lam Paul K. S. , van Lier Joshua , Matis Paloma A. , Noble Mae M. , Pérez‐Matus Alejandro , Piggott Camilla , Radford Ben T. , Tano Stina , Tinkler Paul
Published: March 2020

Canopy‐forming macroalgae can construct extensive meadow habitats in tropical seascapes occupied by fishes that span a diversity of taxa, life‐history stages and ecological roles. Our synthesis assessed whether these tropical macroalgal habitats have unique fish assemblages, provide fish nurseries and support local fisheries. We also applied a meta‐analysis of independent surveys across 23 tropical reef locations in 11 countries to examine how macroalgal canopy condition is related to the abundance of macroalgal‐associated fishes. Over 627 fish species were documented in tropical macroalgal meadows, with 218 of these taxa exhibiting higher local abundance within this habitat (cf. nearby coral reef) during at least one life‐history stage. Major overlap (40%–43%) in local fish species richness among macroalgal and seagrass or coral reef habitats suggest macroalgal meadows may provide an important habitat refuge. Moreover, the prominence of juvenile fishes suggests macroalgal meadows facilitate the triphasic life cycle of many fishes occupying diverse tropical seascapes. Correlations between macroalgal canopy structure and juvenile abundance suggests macroalgal habitat condition can influence levels of replenishment in tropical fish populations, including the majority of macroalgal‐associated fishes that are targeted by commercial, subsistence or recreational fisheries. While many macroalgal‐associated fishery species are of minor commercial value, their local importance for food and livelihood security can be substantial (e.g. up to 60% of landings in Kenyan reef fisheries). Given that macroalgal canopy condition can vary substantially with sea temperature, there is a high likelihood that climate change will impact macroalgal‐associated fish and fisheries.
Morphological traits mediate fish occurrences in oil palm‐impacted tropical streams
Authors: Chua Kenny W. J. , Lim Felix K. S. , Ahmad Amirrudin B. , Tan Heok Hui , Yeo Darren C. J.
Published: March 2020

Land‐use change is a leading driver of biodiversity loss, especially in tropical fresh waters where the conversion of natural forest to monoculture plantations impacts freshwater fish assemblages. The environmental pathways underpinning shifts in fish assemblages, however, are poorly understood, but could potentially be inferred from trait–environment relationships.

We addressed this knowledge gap using eco‐morphological traits to explain fish occurrences in oil palm‐impacted streams of the Endau drainage in Peninsular Malaysia. We also investigated how traits relate to differences in environmental conditions associated with land‐use change. We then integrate findings from the above to test how potential pathways of land‐use driven environmental changes can impact species occurrences through effects on life history, feeding habits, and mobility.

Mixed‐effects models show that fishes with superior (upward‐facing) mouths and low body mass were more likely to occur in oil palm streams than forest streams, and these traits were associated with grass‐dominated riparian zones and reduced woody debris in oil palm streams, respectively. Structural equation models show that mouth positions statistically mediated the effect of riparian vegetation on fish species occurrences in oil palm streams. Specifically, fishes with superior mouths were more likely to feed on terrestrial invertebrates.

Our analysis of easily measurable traits revealed pathways of land‐use impact that are potentially more widely applicable than conventional taxa‐based approaches. Fishes with superior mouths tended to occur in oil palm streams as they were able to more effectively exploit inputs of terrestrial invertebrates that are potentially associated with grass‐dominated riparian vegetation.

Moreover, shifts in traits may suggest land‐use driven changes in stream ecosystem functioning (e.g. in terms of the role of terrestrial subsidies), thereby informing targeted management actions in land‐use impacted habitats (e.g. retention/restoration of riparian trees).
The realities of climate change, conservation agriculture and soil carbon sequestration
Authors: Hunt James R. , Celestina Corinne , Kirkegaard John A.
Published: March 2020

The principles of conservation agriculture are frequently assumed to increase soil organic carbon and crop yield under all circumstances. A new analysis confirms that this is not the case, and that the likelihood of increasing either soil organic carbon or crop yield is environmentally dependent.

This is a commentary on Sun et al. 26, 3325–3335.
Effect of up‐regulation of circMATR3 on the proliferation, metastasis, progression and survival of hypopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zhanwang , Wei Peng , Wei Dongmin , Cao Shengda , Liu Heng , Chen Long , Han Xiao , Zhao Xiaoyan , Liu Chuan , Li Guojun , Yang Jianming , Pan Xinliang , Lei Dapeng
Published: March 2020

Increasing number of circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to play important role in gene regulation, carcinogenesis and pathogenesis in various cancers. However, the biological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of circRNAs in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) remain elusive. Thus, secondary circRNA‐seq profiling was performed to identify the differentially expressed circRNAs between HSCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues, and the expression level of circMATR3 (derived from human gene matrin3 (MATR3), has_circRNA_0008922) was confirmed by qRT‐PCR. Proliferation of HSCC cells was detected by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK8) assay, apoptosis and the cell cycle were analysed by flow cytometry, and the migration and invasion of HSCC cells was determined by transwell assay. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to predict possible pathways and potential miRNA targets of circMATR3. We found that circMATR3 was up‐regulated in HSCC tissues, and abundant circMATR3 expression was markedly correlated with late T classification, advanced clinical stage, greater lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis. Furthermore, knock‐down of circMATR3 significantly inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of HSCC cells, whereas silencing of circMATR3 induced cell apoptosis. Our analysis predicted that circMATR3 may participate in cancer‐related pathways by serving as miRNA sponges. In conclusion, our findings first identified the oncogenic roles of circMATR3 in promoting the progression of HSCC and demonstrated that circMATR3 may be a novel prognostic marker and therapeutic target for HSCC.
Effectiveness of N95 respirators versus surgical masks against influenza: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Long Youlin , Hu Tengyue , Liu Liqin , Chen Rui , Guo Qiong , Yang Liu , Cheng Yifan , Huang Jin , Du Liang
Published: March 2020

Objective

Previous meta‐analyses concluded that there was insufficient evidence to determine the effect of N95 respirators. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of N95 respirators versus surgical masks for prevention of influenza by collecting randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMbase and The Cochrane Library from the inception to January 27, 2020 to identify relevant systematic reviews. The RCTs included in systematic reviews were identified. Then we searched the latest published RCTs from the above three databases and searched ClinicalTrials.gov for unpublished RCTs. Two reviewers independently extracted the data and assessed risk of bias. Meta‐analyses were conducted to calculate pooled estimates by using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

A total of six RCTs involving 9 171 participants were included. There were no statistically significant differences in preventing laboratory‐confirmed influenza (RR = 1.09, 95% CI 0.92‐1.28, P > .05), laboratory‐confirmed respiratory viral infections (RR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.70‐1.11), laboratory‐confirmed respiratory infection (RR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.42‐1.29) and influenzalike illness (RR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.33‐1.14) using N95 respirators and surgical masks. Meta‐analysis indicated a protective effect of N95 respirators against laboratory‐confirmed bacterial colonization (RR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.43‐0.78).

Conclusion

The use of N95 respirators compared with surgical masks is not associated with a lower risk of laboratory‐confirmed influenza. It suggests that N95 respirators should not be recommended for general public and nonhigh‐risk medical staff those are not in close contact with influenza patients or suspected patients.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of colorectal cancer screening using colonoscopy, fecal immunochemical test, and risk score
Authors: Sekiguchi Masau , Igarashi Ataru , Sakamoto Taku , Saito Yutaka , Esaki Minoru , Matsuda Takahisa
Published: March 2020

Background and Aim

A risk‐stratification score may be useful for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, alongside screening colonoscopy (CS) and fecal immunochemical test (FIT). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of population‐based CRC screening strategies using CS, FIT, and the Japanese CRC screening score.

Methods

The effectiveness in quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs), cost‐effectiveness, and required number of CS procedures were evaluated for screening strategies with primary screening CS (strategy 1), FIT (strategy 2), and the risk score (strategy 3), using a simulation model analysis with two scenarios. In scenario 1, uptake rates for all tests were 60%. In scenario 2, uptake rates for FIT and a risk score were 40%, and those for screening CS and CS following a positive FIT or high risk score were 20% and 70%, respectively.

Results

In scenario 1, strategy 1 gained the highest QALYs and required the highest cost. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios per QALY gained for strategy 1 against the others were lower than 5 000 000 JPY. Strategy 1 required more than twice as many CS procedures as the other strategies. In scenario 2, strategy 3 had the highest QALYs and lowest cost, and strategy 1 had the lowest QALYs and highest cost.

Conclusions

Screening CS has the potential to be the most effective and cost‐effective form of CRC screening, although it requires a large number of CS procedures. However, if non‐invasive tests are preferred by recipients, other screening strategies, particularly those using the risk score, can be more effective and cost‐effective.
Do not swipe the small stuff: A randomized evaluation of rules of thumb‐based financial education
Authors: Theodos Brett , Stacy Christina Plerhoples , Hanson Devlin , Jamison Julian , Daniels Rebecca
Published: March 2020

We perform the first rigorous test of a rules of thumb‐based approach to financial education on consumer behavior and outcomes. We test two rules of thumb that are targeted at reducing credit card revolving and deliver them in a randomized fashion via e‐mail, online banner, and physical mailer. Using monthly administrative data and pre and postintervention credit data on almost 14,000 consumers, we find that the “Do not swipe the small stuff” rule of thumb reduces participants' targeted credit card balance by an average of 2% at a cost of around $0.50 per person. The “Credit keeps charging” rule shows a decline as well but the impact is not significant.
Combined effects of aflatoxin B1 and deoxynivalenol on the expression of glutathione redox system regulatory genes in common carp
Authors: Kövesi Benjamin , Pelyhe Csilla , Zándoki Erika , Mézes Miklós , Balogh Krisztián
Published: March 2020

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the short‐term effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and deoxynivalenol (DON) exposure on the expression of the genes encoding the glutathione redox system glutathione peroxidase 4a (gpx4a), glutathione peroxidase 4b (gpx4b), glutathione synthetase (gss) and glutathione reductase (gsr) and the oxidative stress response‐related transcription factors Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (keap1) and nuclear factor‐erythroid 2 p45‐related factor 2 (nrf2) in liver, kidney and spleen of common carp. During the 24‐hr long experiment, three different doses (5 µg AFB1 and 110 µg DON; 7.5 µg AFB1 and 165 µg DON or 10 µg AFB1 and 220 µg DON/kg bw) were used. The results indicated that the co‐exposure of AFB1 and DON initiated free radical formation in liver, kidney and spleen, which was suggested by the increase in Nrf2 dependent genes, namely gpx4a, gpx4b, gss and gsr. Expression of keap1 gene showed upregulation after 8 hr of mycotoxin exposure, and also upregulation of nrf2 gene was found in kidney after 8 hr of exposure, while in the liver, only slight differences were observed. The changes in the expression of the analysed genes suggest that level of reactive oxygen species reached a critical level where other signalling pathway was activated as described by the hierarchical model of oxidative stress.
Medical student education in sleep and its disorders is still meagre 20 years on: A cross‐sectional survey of UK undergraduate medical education
Authors: Romiszewski Stephanie , May Felix Edward Kelly , Homan Elizabeth Jane , Norris Ben , Miller Michelle A. , Zeman Adam
Published: March 2020

Sleep is a pillar of health, alongside adequate nutrition and exercise. Problems with sleep are common and often treatable. Twenty years ago, UK medical school education on sleep disorders had a median teaching time of 15 min; we investigate whether education on sleep disorders has improved. This is a cross‐sectional survey, including time spent on teaching sleep medicine, subtopics covered and forms of assessment. Thirty‐four medical degree courses in the UK were investigated via a questionnaire. We excluded responses not concerned with general undergraduate education (i.e. optional modules). Twenty‐five (74%) medical schools responded. Time spent teaching undergraduates sleep medicine was: median, 1.5 hr; mode, <1 hr; mean, 3.2 hr (SD = 2.6). Only two schools had a syllabus or core module (8%) and five (22%) were involved in sleep disorders research. Despite the above, half of the respondents thought provision was sufficient. Free‐text comments had recurring themes: sleep medicine is subsumed into other specialties, obstructive sleep apnea dominates teaching, knowledge of sleep disorders is optional, and there is inertia regarding change. A substantial minority of respondents were enthusiastic about improving provision. In conclusion, little has changed over 20 years: sleep medicine is neglected despite agreement on its importance for general health. Sleep research is the exception rather than the rule. Obstacles to change include views that “sleep is not a core topic” or “the curriculum is too crowded”. However, there is enthusiasm for improvement. We recommend establishment of a sleep medicine curriculum. Without better teaching, doctors will remain ill‐equipped to recognize and treat these common conditions.
Pharmacokinetics and clinical effects of xylazine and dexmedetomidine in horses recovering from isoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Guedes Alonso , Knych Heather , Tucker Laura , Almeida Daniel C. , Baldo Caroline F. , Wendt‐Hornickle Erin , Allweiler Sandra
Published: March 2020

This study determined the pharmacokinetics and compared the clinical effects of xylazine and dexmedetomidine in horses recovering from isoflurane anesthesia. Six healthy horses aged 8.5 ± 3 years and weighing 462 ± 50 kg were anesthetized with isoflurane for 2 hr under standard conditions on two occasions one‐week apart. In recovery, horses received 200 μg/kg xylazine or 0.875 μg/kg dexmedetomidine intravenously and were allowed to recover without assistance. These doses were selected because they have been used for postanesthetic sedation in clinical and research studies. Serial venous blood samples were collected for quantification of xylazine and dexmedetomidine, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Two individuals blinded to treatment identity evaluated recovery quality with a visual analog scale. Times to stand were recorded. Results (mean ± SD) were compared using pairedttests or Wilcoxon signed‐ranked test withp < .05 considered significant. Elimination half‐lives (62.7 ± 21.8 and 30.1 ± 8 min for xylazine and dexmedetomidine, respectively) and steady‐state volumes of distribution (215 ± 123 and 744 ± 403 ml/kg) were significantly different between xylazine and dexmedetomidine, whereas clearances (21.1 ± 17.3 and 48.6 ± 28.1 ml/minute/kg), times to stand (47 ± 24 and 53 ± 12 min) and recovery quality (51 ± 24 and 61 ± 22 mm VAS) were not significantly different. When used for postanesthetic sedation following isoflurane anesthesia in healthy horses, dexmedetomidine displays faster plasma kinetics but is not associated with faster recoveries compared to xylazine.