bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Abrupt Climate Change during the Mid‐ to Late‐Holocene Recorded in a Tropical Lake, Southern China
Authors: LING Yuan , TANG Wenkun , WANG Yong , TIAN Fei , YUAN Lupeng , YE Mengni
Published: August 2020

Research on abrupt paleoclimatic and paleoenvironmental change provides a scientific basis for evaluating future climate. Because of spatial variability in monsoonal rainfall, our knowledge about climate change during the mid‐ to late‐Holocene in southern China is still limited. We present a multi‐proxy record of paleoclimatic change in a crater lake, Lake Shuangchi. Based on the age‐depth model from 210Pb, 137Cs and AMS14C data, high‐resolution mid‐ to late‐ Holocene climatic and environmental records were reconstructed using multiple indices (TOC, TN, C/N, δ13C and grain size). Shuangchi underwent a marked change from a peat bog to a lake around 1.4 kaBP. The C3 plants likely dominated during 7.0–5.9 ka and 2.5–1.4 kaBP, while C4 plants dominated between 5.9–3.2 and 3.0–2.5 kaBP. Algae were dominant sources of organic matter in the lake sediments after 1.4 kaBP. Several intervals with high concentrations of coarser grain sizes might be due to flood events. These results reveal that several abrupt paleoclimatic events occurred around 6.6 ka, 6.1 ka, 5.9 ka, 3.0 ka, 2.5 ka and 1.4 kaBP. The paleoclimatic change recorded in the lake may be related to the migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and El Niño ‐ Southern Oscillation (ENSO) activity.
Impact of diabetes, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker use, and statin use on presentation and outcomes in patients with giant cell arteritis
Authors: Ma Jocelyn , Khalidi Nader , Wierzbicki Ola , Alqutami Abdallah , Ioannidis George , Pagnoux Christian
Published: August 2020

Aim

Few, separate, small retrospective studies in giant cell arteritis (GCA) reported that patients: (a) with diabetes mellitus had less positive temporal artery biopsies (TAB); (b) on angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE‐I) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) experienced fewer relapses; and (c) on statins experienced the same frequency of clinical complications and relapses as non‐exposed patients. This retrospective chart review study simultaneously investigated the impact of these 3 factors on a cohort of patients followed in 2 large Canadian centers (Hamilton and Toronto, ON).

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐seven patients diagnosed with GCA between 1993 and 2015 were included in the study. Presenting symptoms, TAB results, disease complications and outcomes (relapses, duration of glucocorticoid use) were compared between exposed (diabetes/ACE/ARB/statin) and non‐exposed patients, with adjustment for main potential confounding variables.

Results

Temporal artery biopsies was less often positive in patients with pre‐existing diabetes (relative risk 0.24; 95% CI: 0.069‐0.81). Patients who developed diabetes after diagnosis had a lower relapse‐free survival (adjusted hazards ratio [HR] 0.28; 95% CI: 0.095‐0.84). Patients taking ARBs prior to diagnosis were more likely to successfully discontinue glucocorticoids without a flare in the following 3 months (adjusted HR 2.46; 95% CI: 1.2‐5.3). Clinical complications and relapse rates did not differ between patients on statin therapy or not.

Conclusion

Diabetic patients with GCA were less likely to have a positive TAB, and more likely to relapse. ARB therapy prior to diagnosis showed an association with success at discontinuing glucocorticoids. Statin therapy did not alter the clinical presentation or course of GCA.
Response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in lung adenocarcinoma with the rare epidermal growth factor receptor mutation S768I and G724S: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Cuicui , Lin Li , Zuo Ran , Wang Yajie , Chen Peng
Published: August 2020

Mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are drivers of a subset of lung cancers. In recent years, the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially with EGFR inhibitors, has made rapid progress, and the median progression‐free survival (PFS) of patients with EGFR gene‐sensitive mutations has been significantly prolonged. However, the response effect of some uncommon EGFR mutations to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) remains unclear.

Here, we present a patient with multiple EGFR mutations that highlights tumor heterogeneity leading to a mixed molecular response to targeted drugs and emphasizes the complexity of EGFR‐driven lung cancer. He received chemotherapy and molecular‐targeted treatment including icotinib, afatinib, osimertinib and afatinib + osimertinib.

In conclusion, patients with lung adenocarcinoma harboring the EGFR S768I and G724S mutations appear less sensitive to icotinib than patients with sensitive EGFR. However, the patient in our report benefited from treatment with afatinib. Here, we hope to provide information for the treatment of rare and compound mutations in patients.
Heat shock protein HSP90 immunoexpression in equine endometrium during oestrus, dioestrus and anoestrus
Authors: Camacho Benítez Ana , Vasconcellos Rossana , Lombide Paula , Viotti Helen , Pérez William , Cazales Nicolás , Cavestany Daniel , Martin Graeme B. , Pedrana Graciela
Published: August 2020

Heat shock proteins play a crucial role in cellular development, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) has been localised in the human endometrium, where its immunoexpression changes during the menstrual cycle. Similar studies have not been done for the equid species, so the present study aimed to describe endometrial HSP90 immunoexpression in mare endometrium. Endometrial biopsies were formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded, and sections were stained with haematoxylin–eosin in preparation for HSP90 immunohistochemistry. Immunostaining and morphometric analyses were performed on the epithelial lining, endometrial glands and connective stroma during oestrus, dioestrus phase and anoestrus period (n = 7 per phase or period). Immunoexpression was localised in the basal region of the epithelial cells lining the lumen. Immunoexpression was greater during oestrus than during either dioestrus or anoestrus. During anoestrus, there was little immunostaining in the endometrium, suggesting that HSP90 is involved in the functional modulation of sex steroid receptors in cyclic mares. Indeed, the function of HSP90 as a chaperone in the folding of proteins, such as steroid receptors, might explain the greater intensity of immunostaining during the oestrus and dioestrus phases, compared the anoestrus period. We conclude that, in the mare, HSP90 plays a role in endometrial function and that further studies are needed to test whether it is important in pathological conditions as endometritis.
A cross‐sectional study of immune seroconversion to SARS‐CoV‐2 in frontline maternity health professionals
Authors: Bampoe S. , Lucas D. N. , Neall G. , Sceales P. , Aggarwal R. , Caulfield K. , Siassakos D. , Odor P. M.
Published: August 2020

COVID‐19, the respiratory disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, is thought to cause a milder illness in pregnancy with a greater proportion of asymptomatic carriers. This has important implications for the risk of patient‐to‐staff, staff‐to‐staff and staff‐to‐patient transmission among health professionals in maternity units. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of previously undiagnosed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in health professionals from two tertiary‐level maternity units in London, UK, and to determine associations between healthcare workers’ characteristics, reported symptoms and serological evidence of prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. In total, 200 anaesthetists, midwives and obstetricians, with no previously confirmed diagnosis of COVID‐19, were tested for immune seroconversion using laboratory IgG assays. Comprehensive symptom and medical histories were also collected. Five out of 40 (12.5%; 95%CI 4.2–26.8%) anaesthetists, 7/52 (13.5%; 95%CI 5.6–25.8%) obstetricians and 17/108 (15.7%; 95%CI 9.5–24.0%) midwives were seropositive, with an overall total of 29/200 (14.5%; 95%CI 9.9–20.1%) of maternity healthcare workers testing positive for IgG antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2. Of those who had seroconverted, 10/29 (35.5%) were completely asymptomatic. Fever or cough were only present in 6/29 (21%) and 10/29 (35%) respectively. Anosmia was the most common symptom occurring in 15/29 (52%) seropositive participants and was the only symptom that was predictive of positive seroconversion (OR 18; 95%CI 6–55). Of those who were seropositive, 59% had not self‐isolated at any point and continued to provide patient care in the hospital setting. This is the largest study of baseline immune seroconversion in maternity healthcare workers conducted to date and reveals that one out of six were seropositive, of whom one out of three were asymptomatic. This has significant implications for the risk of occupational transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 for both staff and patients in maternity units. Regular testing of staff, including asymptomatic staff should be considered to reduce transmission risk.
Long‐term effect of gender‐affirming hormone treatment on depression and anxiety symptoms in transgender people: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Aldridge Zoë , Patel Shireen , Guo Boliang , Nixon Elena , Pierre Bouman Walter , Witcomb Gemma L. , Arcelus Jon
Published: August 2020

Background

Cross‐sectional studies show that transgender people are more likely than cisgender people to experience depression and anxiety before gender‐affirming hormone treatment (GAHT). However, the effect of GAHT on mental health in transgender people, and the role of other factors that may have a predictive effect, is poorly explored.

Objectives

Using a longitudinal methodology, this study investigated the effect of 18‐month GAHT on depression and anxiety symptomatology and the predictors on mental health outcomes in a large population of transgender people.

Materials and methods

Participants (n = 178) completed a socio‐demographic questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Autism Spectrum Quotient—Short Version (AQ‐Short) at pre‐assessment (T0) and at 18 months after initiation of GAHT (T1).

Results

From T0 to T1, symptomatology was significantly decreased for depression (P < .001) and non‐significantly reduced for anxiety (P = .37). Scores on the MSPSS predicted reduction in depression, while scores on the AQ‐Short predicted reduction in anxiety.

Discussion

GAHT reduces symptoms of depression which are predicted by having higher levels of social support. Although anxiety symptoms also reduce, the changes are not significant and high levels of anxiety still remain post‐GAHT.

Conclusions

These results highlight the important mental health benefits of GAHT. Support services (professional, third sector or peer support) aiming at increasing social support for transgender individuals should be made available.
The Moderator Role of Passion for Work in the Association between Work Stressors and Secondary Traumatic Stress: A Cross‐Level Diary Study among Health Professionals of Intensive Care Units
Authors: Moreno‐Jiménez Jennifer E. , Blanco‐Donoso Luis Manuel , Rodríguez‐Carvajal Raquel , Chico‐Fernández Mario , Montejo Juan Carlos , Garrosa Eva
Published: August 2020

Background

Secondary traumatic stress (STS), a construct formed by compassion fatigue, shattered assumptions, and symptomatology, has been scarcely studied in intensive care units (ICU). In these units, healthcare workers encounter daily work stressors which impact on their health and well‐being. Also, previous literature revealed a passion for caring among these workers, finding two types: harmonious passion, which may protect them against negative outcomes, and obsessive passion, which may boost negative consequences. We aim to study whether both types of passion could moderate the relationships between daily work stressors and STS.

Methods

In all, 265 assessments were collected at ICUs from different hospitals in Spain through a diary approach (53 health workers × 5 days at two time points per day).

Results

First, daily work stressors were positive predictors of symptomatology; secondly, dispositional harmonious passion was a negative predictor of both compassion fatigue and shattered assumptions, also presenting a buffering effect between daily work stressors and daily shattered assumptions. Finally, dispositional obsessive passion showed positive relationships with both shattered assumptions and symptomatology, also presenting a boosting effect between daily work stressors and daily symptomatology.

Conclusions

This study allows us to deepen our understanding of STS in ICUs and to boost preventive proposals. Practical implications are discussed.
Letter: programmed death‐1—a predictor for anti‐viral treatment in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Vyas Ashish Kumar
Published: August 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to the Xia et al and Huang et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15732 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15924
Editorial: palliative long‐term abdominal drains in refractory ascites–a step in the right direction, but not the complete solution
Authors: Hudson Ben
Published: August 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to the Macken et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15802 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15928
Letter: IBD nurse—a pivotal role in the time of the pandemic
Authors: Khan Muhammad Umair , Mushtaq Kamran , Al‐Ejji Khalid Mohsin A. A. , Yakoob Rafie A. , Alkaabi Saad Rashid , Khoshnia Masoud
Published: August 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to the Al‐Ani et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15779 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15954
Letter: safety of proton pump inhibitors during pregnancy
Authors: Acar Selin , Keskin‐Arslan Elif , Uysal Nusret , Karadaş Barış , Kaplan Yusuf C.
Published: August 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to the Li et al and Li and Brusselaers papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15610 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15947
Letter: programmed death‐1—a predictor for antiviral treatment in chronic hepatitis B. Authors' reply
Authors: Huang Rui , Xia Juan , Wang Jian , Chen Yuxin , Wu Chao
Published: August 2020

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to the Xia et al and Vyas papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15732 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15878
Salt‐induced crestal faults control the formation of Quaternary tunnel valleys in the southern North Sea
Authors: Wenau Stefan , Alves Tiago M.
Published: August 2020

Tunnel valleys are major features of glaciated margins and they enable meltwater expulsion from underneath a thick ice cover. Their formation is related to the erosion of subglacial sediments by overpressured meltwater and direct glacial erosion. Yet, the impact of pre‐existing structures on their formation and morphology remains poorly known. High‐quality 3D seismic data allowed the mapping of a large tunnel valley that eroded underlying preglacial delta deposits in the southern North Sea. The valley follows the N–S strike of crestal faults related to a Zechstein salt wall. A change in downstream tunnel valley orientation towards the SE accompanies a change in the strike direction of salt‐induced faults. Fault offsets indicate important activity of crestal faults during the deposition of preglacial deltaic sediments. We propose that crestal faults facilitated tunnel valley erosion by acting as high‐permeability pathways and allowing subglacial meltwater to reach low‐permeability sediments in the underlying Neogene deltaic sequences, ultimately resulting in meltwater overpressure build‐up and tunnel valley excavation. Active faults probably also weakened the near‐surface sediment to allow a more efficient erosion of the glacial substrate. This control of substrate structures on tunnel valley morphology is considered as a primary factor in subglacial drainage pattern development in the study area.
Teaching Through Collaboration: Flexibility and Diversity in Caregiver–Child Interaction Across Cultures
Authors: Clegg Jennifer M. , Wen Nicole J. , DeBaylo Paige H. , Alcott Adam , Keltner Elena C. , Legare Cristine H.
Published: August 2020

Teaching supports the high‐fidelity transmission of knowledge and skills. This study examined similarities and differences in caregiver teaching practices in the United States and Vanuatu (N = 125 caregiver and 3‐ to 8‐year‐old child pairs) during a collaborative problem‐solving task. Caregivers used diverse verbal and nonverbal teaching practices and adjusted their behaviors in response to task difficulty and child age in both populations. U.S. caregivers used practices consistent with a direct active teaching style typical of formal education, including guiding children’s participation, frequent praise, and facilitation. In contrast, Ni‐Vanuatu caregivers used practices associated with informal education and divided tasks with children based on difficulty. The implications of these findings for claims about the universality and diversity of caregiver teaching are discussed.
Capacity Investment in a New Production Location
Authors: Shao Lusheng
Published: August 2020

Firms proactively search for low‐cost production locations to enjoy cost‐based advantages. In this article, we develop a two‐stage stochastic program to study a firm's capacity investment and production decisions about the exploration of new production locations. In the first stage, the firm determines how much capacity to build at the new location, and in the second stage, after the product demand and the production cost at the new location have been observed, the firm determines the optimal production quantities. We first characterize the firm's optimal decisions and then examine how the optimal capacity level and firm profit are affected by the key parameters. We find that the firm may be better off when either the production cost or the demand is more variable. Using numerical analyses, we also investigate the value of retaining the existing location, and our results demonstrate that retaining the existing location obtains the highest value when the market size is large, the consumers are insensitive to price, the market demand is highly uncertain, or the variability of the production cost at the new location is either sufficiently high or sufficiently low. Finally, we extend our baseline setting in two directions: one in which the firm makes the production decision prior to demand realization, and the other in which there is a finite capacity at the existing location. For both extensions, we demonstrate the robustness of the results obtained for the baseline setting.
Heautonomy: Schiller on freedom of the will
Authors: Noller Jörg
Published: August 2020

In his book “Schiller as Philosopher”, Frederick Beiser laments that “contemporary Kant scholars have been intent on ignoring him. If they know anything at all about Schiller, it is only as the author of an epigram satirizing Kant”. Therefore, Beiser calls us “to consider Schiller as a philosopher, to reconstruct and appraise the arguments of his philosophical writings” (Beiser, 2005, p. vii). In this paper, I shall argue that it is Schiller's conception of freedom of the will as “heautonomy” that stands behind his critique and modification of Kant's ethics. However, the systematic significance of Schiller's theory of freedom is not obvious. Its argumentative structure must first be reconstructed—as Beiser has demanded—because it is concealed by an esthetic discourse. A reconstruction of Schiller's theory of freedom shows that he contrasts his concept of heautonomy as individual self‐determination with the Kantian concept of an autonomy or autocracy of reason by the universal moral law. Schiller's own philosophical contribution to the debate on freedom after Kant must therefore not be understood as a mere esthetic balancing and softening of Kant's ethical rigorism. Rather, it shows serious transformations of Kant's approach, which justifies understanding it as a critical step beyond Kant's theory of the autonomy of reason.
Stereotactic MRI‐guided laser interstitial thermal therapy for extratemporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Gupta Kunal , Cabaniss Brian , Kheder Ammar , Gedela Satyanarayana , Koch Paul , Hewitt Kelsey C. , Alwaki Abdulrahman , Rich Christopher , Ramesha Supriya , Hu Ranliang , Drane Daniel L. , Gross Robert E. , Willie Jon T.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRg‐LITT) is an alternative to open epilepsy surgery. We assess safety and effectiveness of MRg‐LITT for extratemporal lobe epilepsy (ETLE) in patients who are considered less favorable for open resection.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed sequential cases of patients with focal ETLE who underwent MRg‐LITT between 2012 and 2019. Epileptogenic zones were determined from standard clinical and imaging data ± stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG). Standard stereotactic techniques, MRI thermometry, and a commercial laser thermal therapy system were used for ablations. Anatomic MRI was used to calculate ablation volumes. Clinical outcomes were determined longitudinally.

Results

Thirty‐five patients with mean epilepsy duration of 21.3 ± 12.2 years underwent MRg‐LITT for focal ETLE at a mean age 36.4 ± 12.7 years. A mean 2.59 ± 1.45 trajectories per patient were used to obtain ablation volumes of 8.8 ± 7.5 cm3. Mean follow‐up was 27.3 ± 19.5 months. Of 32 patients with >12 months of follow‐up, 17 (53%) achieved good outcomes (Engel class I + II) of whom 14 (44%) were Engel class I. Subgroup analysis revealed better outcomes for patients with lesional ETLE than for those who were nonlesional, multifocal, or who had failed prior interventions (P = .02). Of 13 patients showing favorable seizure‐onset patterns (localized low voltage fast activity or rhythmic spiking on SEEG) prior to ablation, 9 (69%) achieved good outcomes, whereas only 3 of 11 (27%) who show other slower onset patterns achieved good outcomes. Minor adverse events included six patients with transient sensorimotor neurologic deficits and four patients with asymptomatic hemorrhages along the fiber tract. Major adverse events included one patient with a brain abscess that required stereotactic drainage and one patient with persistent hypothalamic obesity. Three deaths—two seizure‐associated and one suicide—were unrelated to surgical procedures.

Significance

MRI‐guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (or MRg‐LITT) was well‐tolerated and yielded good outcomes in a heterogeneous group of ETLE patients. Lesional epilepsy and favorable seizure‐onset patterns on SEEG predicted higher likelihoods of success.
A semi‐analytical formula for calculating the notch stress field of cruciform welded joint under bending loading
Authors: Shen Wei , Qiu Yu , Xu Lin , Liu Enqian
Published: August 2020

A fine finite element model should be established in fatigue assessment of cruciform welded specimens in notch stress method, and there is no analytical or empirical notch stress formula suitable for engineering application. Based on linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and singular strength theory, this paper put forward a simple semi‐analytical formula of notch stress for commonly used cruciform joints. Considering the influence of incision types and different opening angles, the proposed formula is further extended to U‐shaped notch and other common opening angles. After a series of verification, it is found that the proposed semi‐analytical stress formula based on singular strength values can simply and accurately predict the notch stress under bending loading, which provides a simple assessment approach for fatigue assessment of cruciform welded joints in engineering.
Foraging deeply: Depth‐specific plant nitrogen uptake in response to climate‐induced N‐release and permafrost thaw in the High Arctic
Authors: Pedersen Emily P. , Elberling Bo , Michelsen Anders
Published: August 2020

Warming in the Arctic accelerates top‐soil decomposition and deep‐soil permafrost thaw. This may lead to an increase in plant‐available nutrients throughout the active layer soil and near the permafrost thaw front. For nitrogen (N) limited high arctic plants, increased N availability may enhance growth and alter community composition, importantly affecting the ecosystem carbon balance. However, the extent to which plants can take advantage of this newly available N may be constrained by the following three factors: vertical distribution of N within the soil profile, timing of N‐release, and competition with other plants and microorganisms. Therefore, we investigated species‐ and depth‐specific plant N uptake in a high arctic tundra, northeastern Greenland. Using stable isotopic labelling (15N‐NH4+), we simulated autumn N‐release at three depths within the active layer: top (10 cm), mid (45 cm) and deep‐soil near the permafrost thaw front (90 cm). We measured plant species‐specific N uptake immediately after N‐release (autumn) and after 1 year, and assessed depth‐specific microbial N uptake and resource partitioning between above‐ and below‐ground plant parts, microorganisms and soil. We found that high arctic plants actively foraged for N past the peak growing season, notably the graminoid Kobresia myosuroides. While most plant species (Carex rupestris, Dryas octopetala, K. myosuroides) preferred top‐soil N, the shrub Salix arctica also effectively acquired N from deeper soil layers. All plants were able to obtain N from the permafrost thaw front, both in autumn and during the following growing season, demonstrating the importance of permafrost‐released N as a new N source for arctic plants. Finally, microbial N uptake markedly declined with depth, hence, plant access to deep‐soil N pools is a competitive strength. In conclusion, plant species‐specific competitive advantages with respect to both time‐ and depth‐specific N‐release may dictate short‐ and long‐term plant community changes in the Arctic and consequently, larger‐scale climate feedbacks.
Sorghum silage quality as determined by chemical–nutritional factors
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Henrique Mazza , Pinedo Lerner Arévalo , Meyer Paula Marques , da Silva Thiago Henrique , Guimarães Iuli Caetano da Silva Brandão
Published: August 2020

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is an ensilable tropical plant known as a good alternative to maize crops in regions with scarce rainfall. The objective of this trial was to obtain prediction models based on nutritional contents and end products of sorghum silage fermentation as related to the dry‐matter composition of fresh plants before ensiling. Eleven different sorghum cultivars (including silage, graniferous and sweet types) were used. Twenty‐five sorghum plots were harvested between 80 and 120 days of growth. Fifty plastic buckets were used as experimental microsilos and opened between 60 and 90 days of storage. Statistical modelling was used to create a prediction equation that could explain the impact of fresh sorghum composition on the chemical and nutritional composition of its silage. A complex model was detected by stepwise multiple regression to predict the difference of in vitro dry‐matter digestibility (IVDMD) before and after ensiling, but a simpler model, which involved only the sum of water‐soluble carbohydrate (fWSC) and hemicellulose (fHemi) concentrations in the dry matter of fresh forage, was considered to more usable. It had an acceptable coefficient of determination (0.51). The higher amount of WSC and Hemi in fresh sorghum linearly decreased the difference between IVDMD before and after the ensiling process. A WSC concentration of 125.4 g/kg DM in fresh sorghum is recommended for an ideal silage fermentation when considering pH and lactic acid levels, although ethanol levels continued to increase.
Effectiveness of a far‐infrared low‐temperature sauna program on geriatric syndrome and frailty in community‐dwelling older people
Authors: Sugie Masamitsu , Harada Kazumasa , Takahashi Tetsuya , Nara Marina , Fujimoto Hajime , Kyo Shunei , Ito Hideki
Published: August 2020

Aim

Although it is known that geriatric syndrome is associated with the development of frailty, it is not known whether an amelioration of geriatric syndrome also improves shared risk factors and frailty.

Methods

In total, 67 community‐dwelling older people (79.6 ± 6.5 years, 49 women) participated in this study (41 were classified as pre‐frail and 26 as frail). We analyzed indices of physical frailty and cognitive depression, exercise tolerance and health‐related quality of life as frailty related indices, and the participants completed a questionnaire regarding common geriatric symptoms (cold extremities, leg edema, breathlessness, urinary incontinence, chronic headache, chronic pain, a sense of numbness, anorexia, constipation, insomnia and skin trouble) using numeric ratings. Frailty was evaluated using the Japanese version of the Cardiovascular Health Study (J‐CHS) criteria. The participants then underwent a far‐infrared low‐temperature sauna (FILTS) program twice a week for 3 months and the above parameters were reassessed.

Results

After the FILTS program, there were significant differences in usual walking speed, peak oxygen uptake, Geriatric Depression Scale‐15, health‐related quality of life and the severity of several geriatric symptoms. Of the 67 participants, 18 showed improvements in their J‐CHS frailty score, 47 showed no change and two showed reductions. Linear regression analysis showed that the change in the numeric rating of the coldness of extremities (B = −0.105, P = 0.013) and the cumulative numeric rating for geriatric syndromes (B = 0.044, P < 0.001) were independent determinants of the change in the J‐CHS score.

Conclusions

A 3‐month FILTS program ameliorates geriatric syndrome, the severity of frailty and frailty related indices in older Japanese people. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 892–898.
Sexual risk and HIV testing disconnect in men who have sex with men (MSM) recruited to an online HIV self‐testing trial
Authors: Rodger AJ , Dunn D , McCabe L , Weatherburn P , Lampe FC , Witzel TC , Burns F , Ward D , Pebody R , Trevelion R , Brady M , Kirwan PD , Khawam J , Delpech VC , Gabriel M , Collaco‐Moraes Y , Phillips AN , McCormack S
Published: August 2020

Objectives

We report the frequency of previous HIV testing at baseline in men who have sex with men (MSM) who enrolled in an HIV self‐testing (HIVST) randomized controlled trial [an HIV self‐testing public health intervention (SELPHI)].

Methods

Criteria for enrolment were age ≥ 16 years, being a man (including trans men) who ever had anal intercourse (AI) with a man, not being known to be HIV positive and having consented to national HIV database linkage. Using online survey baseline data (2017–2018), we assessed associations with never having tested for HIV and not testing in the previous 6 months, among men who reported at least two recent condomless AI (CAI) partners.

Results

A total of 10 111 men were randomized; the median age was 33 years [interquartile range (IQR) 26–44 years], 89% were white, 20% were born outside the UK, 0.8% were trans men, 47% were degree educated, and 8% and 4% had ever used and were currently using pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), respectively. In the previous 3 months, 89% reported AI and 72% reported CAI with at least one male partner. Overall, 17%, 33%, 54%, and 72% had tested for HIV in the last 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 2 years, respectively; 13% had tested more than 2 years ago and 15% had never tested. Among 3972 men reporting at least two recent CAI partners, only 22% had tested in the previous 3 months. Region of residence and education level were independently associated with recent HIV testing. Among current PrEP users, 15% had not tested in the previous 6 months.

Conclusions

Most men in SELPHI, particularly those reporting at least two CAI partners and current PrEP users, were not testing in line with current UK recommendations. The results of the trial will inform whether online promotion of HIVST addresses ongoing testing barriers.
Dietary inflammation and cardiometabolic health in adolescents
Authors: Sethna Christine B. , Alanko Daniel , Wirth Michael D. , Shivappa Nitin , Hebert James R. , Khan Samira , Sen Sarbattama
Published: August 2020

Background

The Children's Dietary Inflammatory Index (C‐DII) has been validated to characterize the inflammatory potential of an individual child's diet.

Objective

To determine the association between C‐DII and markers of cardiometabolic risk (adiposity, blood pressure [BP], lipids, albuminuria, glomerular hyperfiltration) in adolescents.

Methods

Participants aged 12‐18 enrolled in NHANES from 2005 to 2014 who completed a 24‐hour dietary recall were included in this cross‐sectional study. Regression models adjusted for age, sex, race and height examined associations of C‐DII quartiles stratified by weight status.

Results

Among adolescents (mean age 15 years), the average C‐DII score was 0.86 (SE 0.04). When comparing C‐DII quartile 4 (most pro‐inflammatory) to quartile 1 (most anti‐inflammatory), there was a positive association with albuminuria (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.02, 2.03). After stratifying by weight status, C‐DII quartile was found to be significantly associated with albuminuria (OR 4.27, 95% CI 1.83, 9.92) and dyslipidemia (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.15, 3.03) in adolescents who were overweight. Among adolescents with obesity, C‐DII quartile was associated with higher SBP (β = 5.07, 95% CI 2.55‐7.59) and lower DBP (β = −4.14, 95% CI −6.74, −1.54).

Conclusion

Consuming a pro‐inflammatory diet in adolescence was associated with alterations in albuminuria, lipid and BP measures.
Drivers of training participation in low skilled jobs: the role of ‘voice’, technology, innovation and labor shortages in German companies
Authors: Wotschack Philip
Published: August 2020

This article investigates the role of ‘voice’, technology, innovation (of products, services, or processes) and labor shortages in the training participation of low skilled workers in German companies. By building on the key findings of previous research, hypotheses on drivers of training participation are derived from filter theory and the concept of social embeddedness. Regression and cluster analysis based on the German IAB Establishment Panel (wave 2011) show evidence that training participation is shaped by ‘voice’‐related institutional company characteristics such as employee representation or formalized HR practices. Both characteristics often cluster together. Regression analyses confirm that companies in this cluster train a higher share of their low‐skilled workforce. The share is particularly high when companies in this cluster face labor shortages. Apart from that, advanced technology and recent innovations at the company level are not related to higher rates of training participation among low skilled workers.
Prevalence of testicular microlithiasis in healthy newlywed men trying for first‐time pregnancy
Authors: Hiramatsu Ippei , Tsujimura Akira , Miyoshi Miho , Ogasa Taiki , Miyoshi Yuto , Ishikawa Keisuke , Uesaka Yuka , Nozaki Taiji , Shirai Masato , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Horie Shigeo
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of testicular microlithiasis and the relationship between testicular microlithiasis, semen parameters and endocrinological profiles in healthy newlywed men trying for first‐time pregnancy.

Methods

Men visiting Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan, or D Clinic Tokyo, Chiyoda‐ku, Tokyo, Japan, for a first‐time examination of fertility underwent scrotal examination, semen analysis and blood tests. Testicular volume measured by orchidometer, semen parameters measured by the Makler counting chamber and endocrinological profiles were compared between men with testicular microlithiasis and without testicular microlithiasis. The correlation between sperm concentration and the number of calcifications, and sperm motility and the number of calcifications, were investigated.

Results

Of 739 men, 60 (8.1%) were diagnosed as having testicular microlithiasis. Among them, testicular volume, semen volume and motility were lower than those in the men without testicular microlithiasis. Luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone levels were higher in those with than those without testicular microlithiasis. The sperm concentration correlated negatively with the number of calcifications. There was no significant correlation between sperm motility and the number of calcifications.

Conclusion

Herein, we report the prevalence of testicular microlithiasis in healthy newlywed men. Furthermore, our findings suggest that semen parameters in men with severe testicular microlithiasis tend to be worse.
Exploring parents' experiences of promoting physical activity for their child with intellectual disabilities
Authors: McGarty Arlene M. , Westrop Sophie C. , Melville Craig A.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities participate in low levels of physical activity and have a greater reliance on their parents to provide activity opportunities. This study explored parents’ experiences of promoting physical activity for their child with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight parents of children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Interviews were independently coded and analysed by two researchers using thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes and nine subthemes were identified. Overall, parents had positive views of physical activity. However, parents face numerous barriers that limit their ability to promote physical activity for their child with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions

Parents experience high levels of exclusion and stigma that negatively affect their promotion of physical activity for their child with intellectual disabilities. Overcoming the barriers faced by parents could therefore be an indirect method to increase physical activity in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities.
Winds at departure shape seasonal patterns of nocturnal bird migration over the North Sea
Authors: Bradarić Maja , Bouten Willem , Fijn Ruben C. , Krijgsveld Karen L. , Shamoun‐Baranes Judy
Published: August 2020

On their migratory journeys, terrestrial birds can come across large inhospitable areas with limited opportunities to rest and refuel. Flight over these areas poses a risk especially when wind conditions en route are adverse, in which case inhospitable areas can act as an ecological barrier for terrestrial migrants. Thus, within the east‐Atlantic flyway, the North Sea can function as an ecological barrier. The main aim of this study was to shed light on seasonal patterns of bird migration in the southern North Sea and determine whether departure decisions on nights of intense migration were related to increased wind assistance. We measured migration characteristics with a radar that was located 18 km off the NW Dutch coast and used simulation models to infer potential departure locations of birds on nights with intense nocturnal bird migration. We calculated headings, track directions, airspeeds, groundspeeds on weak and intense migration nights in both seasons and compared speeds between seasons. Moreover, we tested if departure decisions on intense migration nights were associated with supportive winds. Our results reveal that on the intense migration nights in spring, the mean heading was towards E, and birds departed predominantly from the UK. On intense migration nights in autumn, the majority of birds departed from Denmark, Germany and north of the Netherlands with the mean heading towards SW. Prevailing winds from WSW at departure were supportive of a direct crossing of the North Sea in spring. However, in autumn winds were generally not supportive, which is why many birds exploited positive wind assistance which occurred on intense migration nights. This implies that the seasonal wind regimes over the North Sea alter its migratory dynamics which is reflected in headings, timing and intensity of migration.
The absence of oestrogen receptor beta disturbs collagen I type deposition during Achilles tendon healing by regulating the IRF5‐CCL3 axis
Authors: Bian Xuting , Liu Tianyao , Yang Mingyu , Gu Chengyi , He Gang , Zhou Mei , Tang Hong , Lu Kang , Lai Fan , Wang Feng , Yang Qiandong , Gustafsson Jan‐Åke , Fan Xiaotang , Tang Kanglai
Published: August 2020

Achilles tendon healing (ATH) remains an unanswered question in the field of sports medicine because it does not produce tissue with homology to the previously uninjured tissue. Oestrogen receptor β (ERβ) is involved in the injury and repair processes of tendons. Our previous study confirmed that ERβ plays a role in the early stage of ATH by affecting adipogenesis, but its role in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling is unknown. We established a 4‐week Achilles tendon repair model to investigate the mechanism through which ERβ affects ATH at the very beginning of ECM remodelling phase. In vitro studies were performed using tendon‐derived stem cells (TDSCs) due to their promising role in tendon healing. Behavioural and biomechanical tests revealed that ERβ‐deficient mice exhibit weaker mobility and inferior biomechanical properties, and immunofluorescence staining and qRT‐PCR showed that these mice exhibited an erroneous ECM composition, as mainly characterized by decreased collagen type I (Col I) deposition. The changes in gene expression profiles between ERβ‐knockout and WT mice at 1 week were analysed by RNA sequencing to identify factors affecting Col I deposition. The results highlighted the IRF5‐CCL3 axis, and this finding was verified with CCL3‐treated TDSCs. These findings revealed that ERβ regulates Col I deposition during ATH via the IRF5‐CCL3 axis.
Establishment of the biological control agent Aphalara itadori is limited by native predators and foliage age
Authors: Jones Ian M. , Smith Sandy M. , Bourchier Robert S.
Published: August 2020

The knotweed psyllid, Aphalara itadori, is a biological control agent for invasive knotweed species in North America and Europe. Initial releases were conducted in Canada in 2014 but establishment has been slow, seemingly as a result of low nymphal survival. We conducted two field experiments in Ontario, Canada, to explore the effects of native predators and the age of knotweed (Fallopia japonica) foliage on nymphal survival in A. itadori. Survival of A. itadori nymphs was significantly reduced on potted plants that were exposed to native predators in the field, compared to plants from which predators were excluded. The number of surviving nymphs was also significantly reduced on older F. japonica foliage, compared to recent regrowth after a summer cutting treatment. We discuss our findings in the context of biological invasion theory and emphasize the potential for increased overlap between the fields of invasion ecology and biological control. Finally, we advocate the use of A. itadori in combination with other control measures as part of an integrated pest management programme, rather than as a solitary measure. Specifically, we recommend that future releases of A. itadori be concentrated shortly after cutting or herbicide treatments in order to maximize the availability of young tender foliage.
Orthodontic‐assisted one step‐ no prep technique: A straightforward and minimally‐invasive approach for localized tooth wear treatment using polymer‐infiltrated ceramic network CAD‐CAM prostheses
Authors: Mainjot Amélie Karine Jacques , Charavet Carole
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To introduce a minimally invasive and simple ortho‐pros approach for localized tooth wear treatment.

Clinical considerations

Four patients with localized anterior and/or posterior tooth wear were treated. Occlusal analyses were performed, and localized wax‐up or digital setup were designed based on estimated tissue loss. No‐prep anterior and posterior partial‐coverage polymer‐infiltrated ceramic network (PICN, Vita Enamic) restorations (eg, palatal and occlusal veneers) were computer‐aided designed and manufactured (CAD‐CAM), tried in, and bonded in supraocclusion, creating a posterior open bite. Then, brief partial (three patients) or global (one patient, for anterior teeth alignment request) orthodontic treatment was performed to extrude the posterior teeth and re‐establish posterior occlusal contacts. The orthodontic treatment duration was ~2 months for extrusion. Direct composites were performed to mask the labial finish line of palatal veneers. Clinical results were successful after a follow‐up of 15, 21, 23, and 47 months, with 100% success rate of PICN anterior restorations and some minor chippings of borders of thin (0.2 mm) posterior occlusal veneers. Patient‐reported outcomes were positive.

Conclusion

Orthodontic‐assisted one step‐no prep technique is an advantageous and straightforward evolution of the Dahl concept. PICNs exhibit several advantages in this interdisciplinary approach.

Clinical significance

New hybrid‐ceramic CAD‐CAM materials and a collaborative interdisciplinary approach support the evolution of the Dahl concept for conservative treatment of worn dentitions. The orthodontic‐assisted one step‐no prep technique is predictable, efficient, and well tolerated by patients and conserves tooth structure.
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors and Dementia: Over Both Sides of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Braillon Alain
Published: August 2020

See the Reply by Niznik et al.
Reply to: Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors and Dementia: Over Both Sides of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Niznik Joshua D. , Zhao Xinhua , Aspinall Sherrie L. , Hanlon Joseph T. , Hanson Laura C. , Nace David , Thorpe Joshua M. , Thorpe Carolyn T.
Published: August 2020

This letter comments on the letter by Alain Braillon.
Eligibility for sacubitril/valsartan in heart failure across the ejection fraction spectrum: real‐world data from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry
Authors: Savarese G. , Hage C. , Benson L. , Schrage B. , Thorvaldsen T. , Lundberg A. , Fudim M. , Linde C. , Dahlström U. , Rosano G. M. C. , Lund L. H.
Published: August 2020

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCT) generalizability may be limited due to strict patient selection.

Objective

In a real‐world heart failure (HF) population, we assessed eligibility for sacubitril/valsartan based on PARADIGM‐HF (sacubitril/valsartan effective)/PARAGON‐HF [sacubitril/valsartan effective in mildly reduced ejection fraction (EF)].

Methods

Outpatients from the Swedish HF Registry (SwedeHF) were analysed. In SwedeHF, EF is recorded as <30, 30–39, 40–49 and ≥50%. In PARAGON‐HF, sacubitril/valsartan was effective with EF ≤ 57% (i.e. median). We defined reduced EF/PARADIGM‐HF as EF < 40%, mildly reduced EF/PARAGON‐HF ≤ median as EF 40–49%, and normal EF/PARAGON‐HF > median as EF ≥ 50%. We assessed 2 scenarios: (i) criteria likely to influence treatment decisions (pragmatic scenario); (ii) all criteria (literal scenario).

Results

Of 37 790 outpatients, 57% had EF < 40%, 24% EF 40–49% and 19% EF ≥ 50%. In the pragmatic scenario, 63% were eligible in EF < 50% (67% for EF < 40% and 52% for 40–49%) and 52% in EF ≥ 40% (52% for EF ≥ 50%). For the literal scenario, 32% were eligible in EF < 50% (38% of EF < 40%, 20% of EF 40–49%) and 22% in EF ≥ 40% (25% for EF ≥ 50%). Eligible vs. noneligible patients had more severe HF, more comorbidities and overall worse outcomes.

Conclusion

In a real‐world HF outpatient cohort, 81% of patients had EF < 50%, with 63% eligible for sacubitril/valsartan based on pragmatic criteria and 32% eligible based on literal trial criteria. Similar eligibility was observed for EF 40–49% and ≥50%, suggesting that our estimates for EF < 50% may be reproduced whether or not a higher cut‐off for EF is considered.