bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxin or medication? Immunotherapeutic effects of nicotine on a specialist caterpillar
Authors: Garvey Michael , Bredlau Justin , Kester Karen , Creighton Curtis , Kaplan Ian
Published: December 2020

A core tenant in the field of ecological immunology is that immune responses trade off with other physiological functions due to resource allocation costs. Caterpillars, for example, tend to exhibit reduced immune responses when reared on more toxic food plants due to a cost from detoxifying or sequestering secondary metabolites, also known as the ‘vulnerable host hypothesis’. However, support for this hypothesis is mixed, and studies have not yet mechanistically isolated the relative contributions of total plant defences, specific metabolites or macro‐nutritional quality.

We used the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta, a specialist herbivore on plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), to investigate trade‐offs in immune response. This system is ideal given the availability of solanaceous plant lines varying in general (i.e. jasmonate‐induced) and specific (i.e. nicotine) resistance traits. We also applied a geometric diet stoichiometry approach to examine how phytochemical toxicity and nutritional quality interactively impact insect immunity and performance. We predicted that as plant toxicity increased, immune activity and herbivore performance would decrease.

Increasing food plant toxicity reduced insect growth and development, as predicted, but contrary to our hypothesis, plant toxicity did not trade off with immune parameters. Surprisingly, specific plant chemicals, in this case nicotine, appeared immunotherapeutic, stimulating the phenoloxidase (PO) immune response of M. sexta. Available nutrients in artificial diets, mainly protein, also strongly impacted insect growth, but did not affect PO activity, while diets supplemented with nicotine enhanced the PO and melanization response.

This work highlights how specific secondary metabolites, and not overall plant toxicity, impact the immune response. Importantly, our data also suggest an alternative mechanism (i.e. immune enhancement) for reduced parasitoid performance when reared from hosts on toxic plants via tritrophic interactions.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Research Note: Recovering sparse models in 3D potential‐field inversion without bound dependence or staircasing problems using a mixed Lp norm regularization
Authors: Sun Jiajia , Wei Xiaolong
Published: December 2020

Sparse inversions have proven to be useful for interpreting potential‐field data because the recovered models are characterized by sharp boundaries, compact features and elevated values, compared with conventional smoothness‐based inversion results. However, several open problems remain to be addressed, including the bound dependence and staircasing problems. The former results in recovered anomalous values being close to the upper bound, while the latter leads to recovered anomalous bodies with either horizontal or vertical boundaries. We have developed a mixed Lp norm regularization strategy to address these two problems. Inversion results based on two synthetic examples confirm the validity of our approach.
Cell and extracellular matrix interaction models in benign mesothelial and malignant pleural mesothelioma cells in 2D and 3D in‐vitro
Authors: Jagirdar Rajesh M. , Papazoglou Eleftherios D. , Pitaraki Eleanna , Kouliou Olympia A. , Rouka Erasmia , Giannakou Lydia , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Sinis Sotirios I. , Hatzoglou Chrissi , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos I. , Zarogiannis Sotirios G.
Published: December 2020

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive tumour that grows in the pleural cavity. MPM spheroids released in the pleural fluid can form new tumour foci. Cell–cell, cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions in 2D and 3D impact malignant cell behaviour during cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In this study, epithelioid, biphasic and sarcomatoid MPM cell types as well as benign mesothelial cells were tested with regards to the above phenotypes. Fibronectin (FN) and homologous cell‐derived extracellular matrix (hcd‐ECM) treated substratum differentially affected the above phenotypes. 3D MPM spheroid invasion was higher in FN‐collagen matrices in the epithelioid and biphasic cells, while 3D cell cultures of epithelioid and sarcomatoid MPM cells in FN‐collagen showed a higher contractility compared to hcd‐ECM‐collagen. Cell aggregates demonstrated invasive behaviour in hcd‐ECM matrices alone. Our results suggest that ECM and the dimensionality affect malignant cell behaviour during cell culture studies.
Analysis of bacterial communities in a municipal duck pond during a phytoplankton bloom and isolation of Anatilimnocola aggregata gen. nov., sp. nov., Lacipirellula limnantheis sp. nov. and Urbifossiella limnaea gen. nov., sp. nov. belonging to the phylum Planctomycetes
Authors: Kallscheuer Nicolai , Rast Patrick , Jogler Mareike , Wiegand Sandra , Kohn Timo , Boedeker Christian , Jeske Olga , Heuer Anja , Quast Christian , Glöckner Frank Oliver , Rohde Manfred , Jogler Christian
Published: December 2020

Waterbodies such as lakes and ponds are fragile environments affected by human influences. Suitable conditions can result in massive growth of phototrophs, commonly referred to as phytoplankton blooms. Such events benefit heterotrophic bacteria able to use compounds secreted by phototrophs or their biomass as major nutrient source. One example of such bacteria are Planctomycetes, which are abundant on the surfaces of marine macroscopic phototrophs; however, less data are available on their ecological roles in limnic environments. In this study, we followed a cultivation‐independent deep sequencing approach to study the bacterial community composition during a cyanobacterial bloom event in a municipal duck pond. In addition to cyanobacteria, which caused the bloom event, members of the phylum Planctomycetes were significantly enriched in the cyanobacteria‐attached fraction compared to the free‐living fraction. Separate datasets based on isolated DNA and RNA point towards considerable differences in the abundance and activity of planctomycetal families, indicating different activity peaks of these families during the cyanobacterial bloom. Motivated by the finding that the sampling location harbours untapped bacterial diversity, we included a complementary cultivation‐dependent approach and isolated and characterized three novel limnic strains belonging to the phylum Planctomycetes.
A delicate balance between control and flexibility: Experiences of care and support among pre‐teenage children with type 1 diabetes and their families
Authors: Pals Regitze Anne Saurbrey , Coyne Imelda , Skinner Timothy , Grabowski Dan
Published: December 2020

For children with type 1 diabetes, the period of adolescence is associated with higher blood glucose levels and increased psychological distress compared to other age groups. Focusing on pre‐teens (9‐12 years) with type 1 diabetes and their families has been suggested as key to understanding and reducing these challenges. The aim of this study was to explore: 1, how diabetes affects family life, 2, experiences of and needs for support and 3, how care responsibilities are negotiated among pre‐teens with type 1 diabetes and their families. Data were obtained from four interactive workshops with pre‐teens (n = 17), their parents (n = 26) and their siblings (n = 14). Dialogue tools, for example quotes and picture cards, were used to facilitate discussion and reflection concerning family life with type 1 diabetes. Data analysis resulted in three themes: 1, diabetes takes up ‘a lot of space’, 2, giving and receiving support and 3, balancing control and flexibility. While diabetes took up significant space in the families, family members protected each other from their respective frustrations. The findings point to the significance of considering all key family members and their interactions in diabetes interventions. This includes balancing control and flexibility, negotiating responsibilities and building trust.
Heterotopia of the road: driving and drifting in Siberia
Authors: Argounova‐Low Tatiana
Published: December 2020

The article demonstrates how development of the car cultures in the city of Yakutsk, northeastern Russia, is facilitated by the proximity of Japan, where street racing and drift driving became popular through such outlets as the manga series, animation films, YouTube, and a blockbuster film, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. These influences, which arrived in Siberia from across the Sea of Japan and Hollywood, highlight the shifting geographies and multiple cultural entanglements of the technological advancements in the global space. Through these cultural engagements, young people in the city establish a different perception of the road, endowing it with heterotopic qualities. The article explores the heterotopia of the road in anthropology.
A structurally unique Fusobacterium nucleatum tannase provides detoxicant activity against gallotannins and pathogen resistance
Authors: Mancheño José Miguel , Atondo Estíbaliz , Tomás‐Cortázar Julen , Luís Lavín José , Plaza‐Vinuesa Laura , Martín‐Ruiz Itziar , Barriales Diego , Palacios Ainhoa , Daniel Navo Claudio , Sampedro Leticia , Peña‐Cearra Ainize , Ángel Pascual‐Itoiz Miguel , Castelo Janire , Carreras‐González Ana , Castellana Donatello , Pellón Aize , Delgado Susana , Ruas‐Madiedo Patricia , de las Rivas Blanca , Abecia Leticia , Muñoz Rosario , Jiménez‐Osés Gonzalo , Anguita Juan , Rodríguez Héctor
Published: December 2020

Colorectal cancer pathogenesis and progression is associated with the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum and the reduction of acetylated derivatives of spermidine, as well as dietary components such as tannin‐rich foods. We show that a new tannase orthologue of F. nucleatum (TanBFnn) has significant structural differences with its Lactobacillus plantarum counterpart affecting the flap covering the active site and the accessibility of substrates. Crystallographic and molecular dynamics analysis revealed binding of polyamines to a small cavity that connects the active site with the bulk solvent which interact with catalytically indispensable residues. As a result, spermidine and its derivatives, particularly N8‐acetylated spermidine, inhibit the hydrolytic activity of TanBFnn and increase the toxicity of gallotannins to F. nucleatum. Our results support a model in which the balance between the detoxicant activity of TanBFnn and the presence of metabolic inhibitors can dictate either conducive or unfavourable conditions for the survival of F. nucleatum.
First‐line treatment with irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitors associated with longer OS in EGFR mutation‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Su Po‐Lan , Chen Chian‐Wei , Wu Yi‐Lin , Lin Chien‐Chung , Su Wu‐Chou
Published: December 2020

Background

Few studies have compared the efficacy of the irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI), afatinib, with that of reversible EGFR‐TKIs. Therefore, this study assessed the effectiveness of afatinib, erlotinib, and gefitinib in terms of OS (overall survival) and progression‐free survival (PFS) in EGFR mutation‐positive advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

Methods

Patients with EGFR mutation‐positive advanced NSCLC who sought treatment from December 2013 to June 2018, at a tertiary referral center were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were treated with afatinib or a reversible EGFR‐TKI (erlotinib or gefitinib) until disease progression, intolerable adverse events, or death. The Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank tests were then used to compare the OS and PFS of the patients. We further analyzed the survival differences among the subgroup of patients without brain metastases.

Results

Of the 363 patients enrolled, 134 and 229 received first‐line afatinib and first‐line reversible EGFR‐TKI, respectively. Those given afatinib had better OS (39.3 vs. 26.0 months; HR 0.65, P = 0.033) and PFS (14.1 vs.11.2 months; HR 0.58, P < 0.001). Of the 246 patients without brain metastases, 93 and 153 received first‐line afatinib and a first‐line reversible EGFR‐TKI, respectively. Those given afatinib had a better OS (52.6 vs. 24.9 months; HR 0.62, P = 0.0030) and PFS (17.7 vs. 11.1 months; HR 0.51, P < 0.001). The survival benefit was more significant in the subgroup of patients with L858R substitutions.

Conclusions

The results indicated that afatnib resulted in significantly better OS and PFS than gefitnib and erlotinib for EGFR mutation‐positive advanced NSCLC patients without brain metastases.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

Afatnib resulted in significantly better overall survival and progression‐free survival than gefitnib and erlotinib for EGFR mutation‐positive advanced non‐small cell lung cancer patients without brain metastases.

What this study adds

This study helps fill the gap in our limited understanding of the differences in the efficacy of the irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI), afatinib, with that of reversible EGFR‐TKIs.
Alcohol dependence activates ventral tegmental area projections to central amygdala in male mice and rats
Authors: Avegno Elizabeth M. , Kasten Chelsea R. , Snyder William B. , Kelley Leslie K. , Lobell Thomas D. , Templeton Taylor J. , Constans Michael , Wills Tiffany A. , Middleton Jason W. , Gilpin Nicholas W.
Published: December 2020

The neural adaptations that occur during the transition to alcohol dependence are not entirely understood but may include a gradual recruitment of brain stress circuitry by mesolimbic reward circuitry that is activated during early stages of alcohol use. Here, we focused on dopaminergic and nondopaminergic projections from the ventral tegmental area (VTA), important for mediating acute alcohol reinforcement, to the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), important for alcohol dependence‐related negative affect and escalated alcohol drinking. The VTA projects directly to the CeA, but the functional relevance of this circuit is not fully established. Therefore, we combined retrograde and anterograde tracing, anatomical, and electrophysiological experiments in mice and rats to demonstrate that the CeA receives input from both dopaminergic and nondopaminergic projection neurons primarily from the lateral VTA. We then used slice electrophysiology and fos immunohistochemistry to test the effects of alcohol dependence on activity and activation profiles of CeA‐projecting neurons in the VTA. Our data indicate that alcohol dependence activates midbrain projections to the central amygdala, suggesting that VTA projections may trigger plasticity in the CeA during the transition to alcohol dependence and that this circuit may be involved in mediating behavioral dysregulation associated with alcohol dependence.
Influence of banana plantations on bat assemblages (Chiroptera)
Authors: Luz Júlia Lins , Costa Luciana de Moraes , Esbérard Carlos Eduardo Lustosa
Published: December 2020

Landscape modification for agriculture is the most severe and common threat to global diversity. Considering that part of the native biota may also live in plantations, it is important to investigate how human‐altered habitats can be incorporated into conservation strategies. We analysed how banana plantations affect bat assemblages. We selected 12 pair of sites in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, each one consisting of a banana plantation and a forest fragment adjacent to this. From November 2008 to October 2010, we carried out monthly sampling for two nights: one in the banana plantation and the other in the adjacent forest fragment, summing up 48 sampling nights. Bats were captured with mist nets. We analyse 2369 captures and recaptures of 27 bat species. Banana plantations did not affect species richness but did affect community structure. Frugivorous, nectarivorous and omnivorous bats were significantly more abundant in banana plantations. The ability of banana plantations to harbour bat diversity depends directly on the amount of forest cover surrounding it. Bat abundance was affected by banana plantations on a local scale while bat richness responds to forest cover on a broader scale. Forest fragments may satisfy requirements related to roosting habitat and permit continued occupancy if the surrounding deforested matrix provides adequate food resources. Banana plantations may enhance the availability of habitat across the landscape facilitating individual movements and appears to be compatible with the conservation of bat diversity. However, it is important to note that banana plantations are not efficient to house some species susceptible to fragmentation. This study provides evidence that banana plantation can be managed in an ecologically sustainable way and that significant biodiversity conservation efforts can occur outside national parks and nature reserves.
Is there a temporal trend in semen quality in Belgian candidate sperm donors and in sperm donors’ fertility potential from 1995 onwards?
Authors: Sugihara Alessa , De Neubourg Diane , Punjabi Usha
Published: December 2020

Background

A recent meta‐regression analysis reported a temporal trend in sperm count showing a significant decline in sperm count between 1973 and 2011. This decline is thought to affect fecundity. Moreover, semen quality is considered of key interest to public health given its association with all‐cause male morbidity/mortality. The issue requires ongoing investigation due to geographical variation in semen quality and methodological errors in semen analysis.

Objective

To study whether there is a temporal trend in semen quality in Belgian candidate sperm donors and in sperm donors’ fertility potential.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis of samples provided by 439 candidate donors and pregnancy outcome in acceptors over a period of 23 years.

RESULTS

A total of 807 specimens from 439 candidate donors were examined from January 1995 to December 2017 (Table S1). Sub‐analyses performed with regard to TSC from 2010 onwards (weighing) revealed a significant negative trend (R2=−0.033; β=−0.18; CI: −0.16 to 0.07; p < 0.05). We found a statistically significant association between year of donation and morphology (R2= 0.036; β= −0.19; CI: −0.26 to −0.08; p < 0.0001). The mean (±SD) clinical pregnancy rate per effective donor recruited (n = 104), defined as the number of women with a clinical pregnancy, per number of women who initiated treatment with a donor's spermatozoa, was 68.5 (± 24.9) %. This measure did not show a significant change in function of year of donation.

Discussion

Candidate sperm donors represent a select group of men; as such, these results are not to be interpreted as representative for the general population.

Conclusion

The study did not show a significant change in sperm concentration or fertility potential in sperm donors over a period of 23 years. However, a negative trend was found for TSC from 2010 onwards. Also, the results show a significant decrease in ideal morphology over time.
Bumetanide for autism: Open‐label trial in six children
Authors: Fernell Elisabeth , Gustafsson Peik , Gillberg Christopher
Published: December 2020

Aim

Bumetanide, a diuretic agent, that reduces intracellular chloride—thereby reinforcing GABAergic inhibition—has been reported to improve core symptoms of autism in children. Given the positive results reported from French trials of bumetanide in children with autism, we decided to evaluate its effects in a small‐scale pilot study, in advance of a larger randomised controlled study (RCT).

Methods

This was an open‐label three‐month trial of bumetanide on six children (five boys), aged 3–14 years with autism. Ratings according to the Parental Satisfaction Survey (PASS) were used after four and twelve weeks to assess symptom change. Blood electrolyte status was monitored.

Results

Improvement in the PASS domain “Communicative and cognitive abilities” was marked or very marked in four children, and two had some improvements. Few negative side effects were reported.

Conclusion

Our small cohort responded well to bumetanide, particularly with regard to “Communicative and cognitive abilities”. Taken with the evidence from larger‐scale RCTs, we suggest that bumetanide should be considered for inclusion in ethically approved treatment/management trials for children with autism, subject to rigorous follow‐up in large‐scale RCTs.
Is increased Staphylococcus aureus colonization during military service caused by specific genotypes? Molecular examination of long‐term carriage in a prospective cohort study
Authors: Blomfeldt Anita , Jørgensen Silje Bakken , Helmersen Karin , Eskonsipo Petri Kaarlo Juhani , Aamot Hege Vangstein
Published: December 2020

A 22% increase in Staphylococcus aureus colonization was observed in Norwegian recruits during first year of military service. The aim was to determine whether specific genotypes caused the increase and to examine carriage status based on genotyping. Characterization of S. aureus from nose, throat and perineum sampled at enrolment and discharge included spa typing, MLVA, detection of PVL genes and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. spa typing demonstrated high and stable genetic diversity. The three most frequent spa types were found in 15% of recruits at enrolment and in 29% at discharge. Only t084 increased significantly (p = 0.02). Subtyping revealed that t084, t065 and t002 consisted of 13, 6 and 11 different MLVA types, respectively, at discharge. The military cohort (n = 265) consisted of S. aureus carriers of identical genotype (n = 99, 38%), carriers of non‐identical genotype (n = 52, 20%), intermittent carriers (n = 86, 33%) and non‐carriers (n = 27, 10%). Carrier status was indefinable for one recruit due to unavailable isolates for genotyping. Antibiotic resistance towards erythromycin, fusidic acid and clindamycin increased significantly and above national surveillance levels. The observed increase in S. aureus colonization during military service was caused by many different genotypes implying many transmission routes. Genotype did not correlate with colonization niche or carriage status.
When and Where Global meets Local: A multilevel analysis of determinants of social trust in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
Authors: Yang Guang , Badri Masood , Al Bahar Muna , Al Rashdi Asma
Published: December 2020

Abu Dhabi's transformation to a modern society in recent decades provides an ideal context to explore the interplay of tradition, transition, and modernization at various levels, which shapes the trajectory of the development of social trust. This study offers multilevel analyses of the effects of social, psychological, and ethnical factors on social trust by using data from Abu Dhabi General Social Survey conducted in 2018. The results sustain the validity of both social capital and social network theories in explaining social trust. Contrary to the findings in other Middle East countries, in Abu Dhabi, the full‐time employed and people who are more satisfied with their household income tend to show a higher level of trust. A negative but insignificant relationship is found between community ethnic fragmentation and social trust.
Gene therapy for primary immunodeficiencies
Authors: Fox Thomas A. , Booth Claire
Published: December 2020

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are a group of rare inherited disorders of the immune system. Many PIDs are devastating and require a definitive therapy to prevent progressive morbidity and premature mortality. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is curative for many PIDs, and while advances have resulted in improved outcomes, the procedure still carries a risk of mortality and morbidity from graft failure or graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD). Autologous haematopoietic stem cell gene therapy (HSC GT) has the potential to correct genetic defects across haematopoietic lineages without the complications of an allogeneic approach. HSC GT for PID has been in development for the last two decades and the first licensed HSC‐GT product for adenosine deaminase‐deficient severe combined immunodeficiency (ADA‐SCID) is now available. New gene editing technologies have the potential to circumvent some of the problems associated with viral gene‐addition. HSC GT for PID shows great promise, but requires a unique approach for each disease and carries risks, notably insertional mutagenesis from gamma‐retroviral gene addition approaches and possible off‐target toxicities from gene‐editing techniques. In this review, we discuss the development of HSC GT for PID and outline the current state of clinical development before discussing future developments in the field.
Information Technology, Business Strategy and the Reassignment of Work from In‐House Employees to Agency Temps
Authors: Litwin Adam Seth , Tanious Sherry M.
Published: December 2020

Though we now understand how information technology (IT) influenceswork, we know much less about how it reshapes the actualrelationshipbetween workers and their employers. That is, to what extent do employers deploy new technologies towards the erosion of traditional employment relationships? This study relies on a cross section of British workplaces to provide statistical evidence that IT actually facilitates managers’reassignmentof work once done by in‐house employees to those working instead for a staffing agency, an effect that trebles in magnitude where managers have simultaneously cut employment. Furthermore, IT differentially serves opposing business strategies. While employers electing to compete on price rather than quality are more likely to reassign work, managers enacting quality‐centred strategies are more likely to rely on IT toavertwork reassignment. The findings demonstrate that new technologies may facilitate this form of externalization, but they do not unilaterally drive it. The estimates also illuminate IT's indirect impact on workers via managers’ use of it as a tool for restructuring employment.
A semiparametric approach for item response function estimation to detect item misfit
Authors: Köhler Carmen , Robitzsch Alexander , Fährmann Katharina , von Davier Matthias , Hartig Johannes
Published: December 2020

When scaling data using item response theory, valid statements based on the measurement model are only permissible if the model fits the data. Most item fit statistics used to assess the fit between observed item responses and the item responses predicted by the measurement model show significant weaknesses, such as the dependence of fit statistics on sample size and number of items. In order to assess the size of misfit and to thus use the fit statistic as an effect size, dependencies on properties of the data set are undesirable. The present study describes a new approach and empirically tests it for consistency. We developed an estimator of the distance between the predicted item response functions (IRFs) and the true IRFs by semiparametric adaptation of IRFs. For the semiparametric adaptation, the approach of extended basis functions due to Ramsay and Silverman (2005) is used. The IRF is defined as the sum of a linear term and a more flexible term constructed via basis function expansions. The group lasso method is applied as a regularization of the flexible term, and determines whether all parameters of the basis functions are fixed at zero or freely estimated. Thus, the method serves as a selection criterion for items that should be adjusted semiparametrically. The distance between the predicted and semiparametrically adjusted IRF of misfitting items can then be determined by describing the fitting items by the parametric form of the IRF and the misfitting items by the semiparametric approach. In a simulation study, we demonstrated that the proposed method delivers satisfactory results in large samples (i.e.,N ≥ 1,000).
Systemic transcriptome comparison between early‐ And late‐onset pre‐eclampsia shows distinct pathology and novel biomarkers
Authors: Guo Fang , Zhang Bao , Yang Hao , Fu Yixi , Wang Yaning , Huang Jianming , Cheng Mi , Li Xiaobo , Shen Zhuojian , Li Li , He Ping , Xiang Andy Peng , Wang Shuaiyu , Zhang Hongbo
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Pre‐eclampsia is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. Although the two forms of this disorder, early‐ (EOPE) and late‐onset of pre‐eclampsia (LOPE) are different, the underlying pathology remains elusive. We aim to unravel the difference and to identify novel biomarkers for EOPE and LOPE.

Materials and Methods

A complete comparison of both placental and peripheral blood transcriptomes was performed to investigate the pathology of pre‐eclampsia. Single‐cell transcriptomics of the maternal‐fetal interface were integrated to identify novel biomarkers for EOPE and LOPE which were further verified at protein or mRNA level in patients.

Results

We found that the transcriptomes of placentae from EOPE, but not LOPE, were significantly different from their respective controls. Conversely, the transcriptomes of peripheral blood from LOPE were more different from their controls than EOPE. Importantly, we identified that several classical biomarkers of pre‐eclampsia were expressed specifically in extravillous trophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast and only upregulated in EOPE, suggesting they should not be applied to all pre‐eclampsia patients in general. We further identified novel biomarkers for EOPE and LOPE from differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of placental and peripheral blood, respectively. The new biomarkers EBI3, IGF2, ORMDL3, GATA2 and KIR2DL4 were experimentally verified with patient blood samples.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate distinct pathology of EOPE and LOPE, and uncover new biomarkers that can be applied in diagnosis for pre‐eclampsia.
Influence of socioeconomic status on cognitive outcome after childhood arterial ischemic stroke
Authors: Bartha‐Doering Lisa , Gleiss Andreas , Knaus Sarah , Schmook Maria Theresa , Seidl Rainer
Published: December 2020

Aim

To determine whether socioeconomic status (SES) is a stronger predictor for cognitive outcome after childhood arterial ischemic stroke compared to clinical factors.

Method

We investigated perceptual reasoning, executive functions, language, memory, and attention in 18 children and adolescents (12 males, six females, median age at testing 13y 4mo, range 7y–17y 5mo) after arterial ischemic stroke; collected sociodemographic information (education of parents, household income); and used clinical information (initial lesion volume, residual lesion volume, age at stroke, time since stroke). Linear regression models were used to investigate the potential influence of SES and clinical parameters on cognitive abilities.

Results

SES had a moderate effect on all cognitive outcome parameters except attention by explaining 41.9%, 37.9%, 38.0%, and 22.5% of variability in perceptual reasoning, executive functions, language, and memory respectively. Initial lesion volume was the only clinical parameter that showed moderate importance on cognitive outcome (33.1% and 25.6% of the variability in perceptual reasoning and memory respectively). Overall, SES was a stronger predictor of cognitive outcome than clinical factors.

Interpretation

Future paediatric studies aiming at clinical predictors of cognitive outcome should control their analyses for SES in their study participants. The findings of the present study further point to the need for more attention to the treatment of children with low SES.

What this paper adds

Socioeconomic status (SES) explains up to 42% of variance in cognitive outcome after childhood arterial ischemic stroke.

SES is a stronger predictor of outcome than clinical factors.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and the risk of heart failure: A nationwide cohort study of older adults with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fralick Michael , Colacci Michael , Thiruchelvam Deva , Gomes Tara , Redelmeier Donald A
Published: December 2020

Aims

To analyse the rate of heart failure hospitalization for older adults prescribed a sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor.

Materials and Methods

The study cohort included adults aged 66 years and older diagnosed with diabetes mellitus in Ontario, Canada, between July 2015 and March 2019, who received either an SGLT2 inhibitor or a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor. The primary outcome was a composite of heart failure hospitalization and all‐cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included diabetic ketoacidosis and hypoglycaemia.

Results

A total of 29 916 adults prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor were compared with 29 916 adults prescribed a DPP‐4 inhibitor. The mean age was 72 years, 60% were men, the baseline glycated haemoglobin concentration was 8.2% and the baseline creatinine was 89 μmol/L. The incidence rate of the primary outcome was 19/1000 person‐years for adults prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor compared to 38/1000 person‐years in those prescribed a DPP‐4 inhibitor. This resulted in a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.49 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45, 0.54) and a rate difference (RD) of 19 fewer events per 1000 person‐years (RD –19 [95% CI –22, –17]). Patients prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor also had a lower rate of hypoglycaemia (HR 0.61 [95% CI 0.46, 0.81); RD –1.6 [95% CI –2.4, –0.8]), but a higher rate of diabetic ketoacidosis (HR 1.84 [95% CI 1.26, 2.70]; RD 1.0 [95% CI 0.4, 1.6]).

Conclusions

Older adults prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor had a lower rate of heart failure hospitalization or death, and a lower rate of hypoglycaemia, but an increased rate of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to older adults prescribed a DPP‐4 inhibitor.
Turkey and Erdoğan’s rising “Lausanne Syndrome”
Authors: Drakoularakos Stavros
Published: December 2020

In this article, I analyze the rise of the “Lausanne Syndrome” in Turkish politics during the twenty‐first century through the prism of ontological security theory. The arguments are presented through the examination of the legacy of the “Sèvres Syndrome”, the impact of the Turkish‐Israeli diplomatic break‐up during the 2010s on the Turkish self‐narrative, and the declaration of the second war of independence following the failed coup attempt of 2016. The “Lausanne Syndrome” serves both as a domestic and foreign policy tool, as it relates to Erdoğan’s search for ontological security and geopolitical strategy.
Diagnostic accuracy of infrared thermal imaging for detecting COVID‐19 infection in minimally symptomatic patients
Authors: Martinez‐Jimenez Mario A. , Loza‐Gonzalez Victor M. , Kolosovas‐Machuca E. Samuel , Yanes‐Lane Mercedes E. , Ramirez‐GarciaLuna Ana Sofia , Ramirez‐GarciaLuna Jose L.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Despite being widely used as a screening tool, a rigorous scientific evaluation of infrared thermography for the diagnosis of minimally symptomatic patients suspected of having COVID‐19 infection has not been performed.

Methods

A consecutive sample of 60 adult individuals with a history of close contact with COVID‐19 infected individuals and mild respiratory symptoms for less than 7 days and 20 confirmed COVID‐19 negative healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. Infrared thermograms of the face were obtained with a mobile camera, and RT‐PCR was used as the reference standard test to diagnose COVID‐19 infection. Temperature values and distribution of the face of healthy volunteers and patients with and without COVID‐19 infection were then compared.

Results

Thirty‐four patients had an RT‐PCR confirmed diagnosis of COVID‐19 and 26 had negative test results. The temperature asymmetry between the lacrimal caruncles and the forehead was significantly higher in COVID‐19 positive individuals. Through a random forest analysis, a cut‐off value of 0.55°C was found to discriminate with an 82% accuracy between patients with and without COVID‐19 confirmed infection.

Conclusions

Among adults with a history of COVID‐19 exposure and mild respiratory symptoms, a temperature asymmetry of ≥ 0.55°C between the lacrimal caruncle and the forehead is highly suggestive of COVID‐19 infection. This finding questions the widespread use of the measurement of absolute temperature values of the forehead as a COVID‐19 screening tool.
Warming is here: using locomotor performance to infer thermal parameters and vulnerability for an endemic Argentinean tarantula Grammostola vachoni
Authors: Leonela Schwerdt , Ana Elena De Villalobos , Nelson Ferretti
Published: December 2020

1. Because of global climate change and its consequences, estimating the physiological responses of ectothermicorganisms to temperature is of high priority. The thermal increase and changes in fire frequency are some of the consequences of global warming, which could challenge the physiological performance and thermal tolerance of individuals.

2. The present study estimates the thermal parameters from field individuals of the tarantula Grammostola vachoni. To achieve this, we determined the critical thermal limits for locomotor performance, the thermal optimum, and the preferred temperatures. We also calculate the thermal performance breadth and thermal tolerance zone.

3. Temperature strongly affected the locomotor performance of spiders; the sprint speeds were significantly different between temperatures, and at 5 °C and 25 °C the parameter was significantly different between females and juveniles. The preferred temperature showed a mean value of 26.5 °C, and females preferred lower temperature than juveniles. Grammostola vachoni showed a wide thermal tolerance range (close to 43 °C) and thermal performance breadth (B80), an index defined as the range of temperatures at which performance is at least 80% of the maximum.

4. For G. vachoni, these large breadths in the sprint speed represent a substantial buffer against future increases in habitat temperature and shows that the locomotor performance of this species is an adaptable parameter. Understanding the impact of warming in performances is important to make predictions about if this species can remain ecologically viable while facing global change, given the massive worldwide declines in arthropod populations.
Intra‐mental or intra‐cranial? On Brentano's concept of immanent object
Authors: Leung Ka‐wing
Published: December 2020

The aim of this paper is to elucidate Franz Brentano's concept of immanent object through his own words and from his own perspective. The prevalent account of Brentano's revival of intentionality, his initial failure to distinguish between object and content, and his wrong‐headed immanentism, is largely derived from his students. Brentano's objection to it, although well known, is seldom heeded. In fact, plenty of guidelines have been provided by Brentano himself in his writings on how his concept of immanent object is to be understood. I begin with his distinction between two senses of “object,” which, I argue, must be clearly set apart from distinction between two modes of object. I then examine three different interpretations of the term “in‐existence”: the locative, the inherentist, and the objective interpretation. In the end, after dismissing the first two interpretations, I argue that Brentano is best understood as maintaining an objective and deflationary account of mental in‐existence.
Indian Nurses in the United Kingdom: A Two‐Phase Study of the Expatriate‐Host Country National Relationship
Authors: Varma Arup , Mathew Jossy , Wang Chun‐Hsiao , Budhwar Pawan , Katou Anastasia
Published: December 2020

It is well established that expatriates need support from host country nationals (HCNs) to successfully adjust in their new location, and subsequently perform well in their jobs. Drawing on a sample of 149 Indian nurses in the United Kingdom, this two‐phase study illustrates how expatriate‐HCN interactions unfold over time (two years). To do this, we draw upon social identity theory and show that effective expatriate‐HCN relationship building (i.e., perceived categorization and perceived values similarity) lead to HCN support and, subsequently, expatriate adjustment. Results confirmed that perceptions of categorization and value similarity significantly impacted HCN willingness to offer support. We also find that expatriate age, education level, and time spent in the host country significantly impact adjustment. We discuss theoretical and practical implications and offer suggestions for future research.
Factors correlated with intracranial interictal epileptiform discharges in refractory epilepsy
Authors: Quon Robert J. , Meisenhelter Stephen , Adamovich‐Zeitlin Richard H. , Song Yinchen , Steimel Sarah A. , Camp Edward J. , Testorf Markus E. , MacKenzie Todd A. , Gross Robert E. , Lega Bradley C. , Sperling Michael R. , Kahana Michael J. , Jobst Barbara C.
Published: December 2020

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence that subject‐specific factors have on intracranial interictal epileptiform discharge (IED) rates in persons with refractory epilepsy.

Methods

One hundred fifty subjects with intracranial electrodes performed multiple sessions of a free recall memory task; this standardized task controlled for subject attention levels. We utilized a dominance analysis to rank the importance of subject‐specific factors based on their relative influence on IED rates. Linear mixed‐effects models were employed to comprehensively examine factors with highly ranked importance.

Results

Antiseizure medication (ASM) status, time of testing, and seizure onset zone (SOZ) location were the highest‐ranking factors in terms of their impact on IED rates. The average IED rate of electrodes in SOZs was 34% higher than the average IED rate of electrodes outside of SOZs (non‐SOZ;p < .001). However, non‐SOZ electrodes had similar IED rates regardless of the subject's SOZ location (p = .99). Subjects on older generation (p < .001) and combined generation (p < .001) ASM regimens had significantly lower IED rates relative to the group taking no ASMs; newer generation ASM regimens demonstrated a nonsignificant association with IED rates (p = .13). Of the ASMs included in this study, the following ASMs were associated with significant reductions in IED rates: levetiracetam (p < .001), carbamazepine (p < .001), lacosamide (p = .03), zonisamide (p = .01), lamotrigine (p = .03), phenytoin (p = .03), and topiramate (p = .01). We observed a nonsignificant association between time of testing and IED rates (morning–afternoonp = .15, morning–eveningp = .85, afternoon–eveningp = .26).

Significance

The current study ranks the relative influence that subject‐specific factors have on IED rates and highlights the importance of considering certain factors, such as SOZ location and ASM status, when analyzing IEDs for clinical or research purposes.
Sex‐ and time‐specific parental effects of warming on reproduction and offspring quality in a coral reef fish
Authors: Spinks Rachel K. , Bonzi Lucrezia C. , Ravasi Timothy , Munday Philip L. , Donelson Jennifer M.
Published: December 2020

Global warming can disrupt reproduction or lead to fewer and poorer quality offspring, owing to the thermally sensitive nature of reproductive physiology. However, phenotypic plasticity may enable some animals to adjust the thermal sensitivity of reproduction to maintain performance in warmer conditions. Whether elevated temperature affects reproduction may depend on the timing of exposure to warming and the sex of the parent exposed. We exposed male and female coral reef damselfish (Acanthochromis polyacanthus) during development, reproduction or both life stages to an elevated temperature (+1.5°C) consistent with projected ocean warming and measured reproductive output and newly hatched offspring performance relative to pairs reared in a present‐day control temperature. We found female development in elevated temperature increased the probability of breeding, but reproduction ceased if warming continued to the reproductive stage, irrespective of the male's developmental experience. Females that developed in warmer conditions, but reproduced in control conditions, also produced larger eggs and hatchlings with greater yolk reserves. By contrast, male development or pairs reproducing in higher temperature produced fewer and poorer quality offspring. Such changes may be due to alterations in sex hormones or an endocrine stress response. In nature, this could mean female fish developing during a marine heatwave may have enhanced reproduction and produce higher quality offspring compared with females developing in a year of usual thermal conditions. However, male development during a heatwave would likely result in reduced reproductive output. Furthermore, the lack of reproduction from an average increase in temperature could lead to population decline. Our results demonstrate how the timing of exposure differentially influences females and males and how this translates to effects on reproduction and population sustainability in a warming world.
Tenectomy of the superficial digital flexor tendon as a treatment of suspected septic tendinitis and tenosynovitis of the digital flexor tendon sheath followed by rehabilitation with an orthotic device
Authors: Lenoir A. , Schramme M. , Segard‐Weisse E. , Zimmerman M. , Lepage O. M.
Published: December 2020

A 15‐year‐old Sports horse gelding was referred for nonweightbearing lameness of the left hindlimb. Septic cellulitis was diagnosed and managed medically. After 14 days, septic tenosynovitis of the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS), with septic tendinitis of the superficial (SDFT) and deep (DDFT) digital flexor tendons, became evident. Surgical resection of the intrathecal portion of the septic SDFT was performed. Post‐operatively, a half‐limb cast was placed on the operated limb for 10 weeks followed by an articulated orthotic support boot during a rehabilitation period of 6 weeks. The horse recovered and regained long‐term pasture soundness. Ultrasonography demonstrated the presence of bridging connective tissue in the location of the resected SDFT.
Risk factors for bit‐related lesions in Finnish trotting horses
Authors: Tuomola Kati , Mäki‐Kihniä Nina , Valros Anna , Mykkänen Anna , Kujala‐Wirth Minna
Published: December 2020

Background

Bit‐related lesions in competition horses have been documented, but little evidence exists concerning their potential risk factors.

Objectives

To explore potential risk factors for oral lesions in Finnish trotters.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The rostral part of the mouth of 261 horses (151 Standardbreds, 78 Finnhorses and 32 ponies) was examined after a harness race. Information on bit type, equipment and race performance was collected.

Results

A multivariable logistic regression model of Standardbreds and Finnhorses showed a higher risk of moderate or severe oral lesion status associated with horses wearing a Crescendo bit (n = 38, OR 3.6, CI 1.4–8.9), a mullen mouth regulator bit (n = 25, OR 9.9, CI 2.2‐45) or a straight plastic bit (n = 14, OR 13.7, CI 1.75‐110) compared with horses wearing a snaffle trotting bit (n = 98, P = .002). Bar lesions (67 horses) were more common in horses wearing unjointed bits than in horses wearing jointed bits (Fisher's exact test P < .001). Lesions in the buccal area and the inner lip commissures were not associated with bit type. Using a tongue‐tie or an overcheck, galloping, placement in the top three or money earned in the race were not associated with lesion risk.

Main limitations

The sample size for certain bit types was insufficient for statistical analysis.

Conclusions

Moderate and severe oral lesion status was more common in horses wearing a Crescendo bit, a mullen mouth regulator bit or a straight plastic bit than in horses wearing a single‐jointed snaffle trotting bit. However, lesions were observed regardless of bit type. Further studies on rein tension, the interaction between bit type and rein tension and prevention of mouth lesions in trotters are warranted.