bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When preservice teachers’ prior beliefs contradict evidence from educational research
Authors: Thomm Eva , Gold Bernadette , Betsch Tilmann , Bauer Johannes
Published: January 2021

Background

Knowledge from educational research frequently contradicts preservice teachers’ prior beliefs about educational topics. Such contradictions can seriously affect their attitudes towards educational research and can counteract efforts taken to establish teaching as a research‐based profession.

Aims

Inspired by Munro’s (2010,J.Appl.Soc.Psychol.,40, 579) work on science discounting, this study examined whether preservice teachers tend to devalue the potency of educational research when evidence contradicts their beliefs.

Sample

We used data from 145 preservice teachers from different German universities.

Methods

In an experimental design, participants indicated their prior beliefs about an educational topic (i.e., effectiveness of grade retention) before and after reading either confirming or disconfirming scientific evidence. Dependent variables were, first, whether participants devalued the potency of science to study this focal topic and whether they generalized this devaluation to further related and unrelated topics; second, whether participants preferred non‐scientific over scientific sources to inform themselves about the focal topic as an indirect measure of science devaluation.

Results

Interaction effects on both outcome variables confirmed that participants devalued educational research and its sources when scientific evidence conflicted with their prior belief. Yet, results did not corroborate any generalization of devaluation to further topics. Despite the devaluation, participants indicated belief revision in the direction of the evidence read.

Conclusions

Preservice teachers may indeed critically question educational research when scientific evidence conflicts with their prior beliefs. However, they may also adapt their assumptions in light of strong evidence. More research is needed to clarify the conditions of devaluation and belief revision.
Early mortality benefit with COVID‐19 convalescent plasma: a matched control study
Authors: Shenoy Aarthi G. , Hettinger Aaron Z. , Fernandez Stephen J. , Blumenthal Joseph , Baez Valentina
Published: January 2021

Convalescent plasma can provide passive immunity during viral outbreaks, but the benefit is uncertain for the treatment of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Our goal is to assess the efficacy of COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP). In all, 526 hospitalized patients with laboratory‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 at an academic health system were analyzed. Among them, 263 patients received CCP and were compared to 263 matched controls with standard treatment. The primary outcome was 28‐day mortality with a subanalysis at 7 and 14 days. No statistical difference in 28‐day mortality was seen in CCP cases (25·5%) compared to controls (27%, P = 0·06). Seven‐day mortality was statistically better for CCP cases (9·1%) than controls (19·8%, P < 0·001) and continued at 14 days (14·8% vs. 23·6%, P = 0·01). After 72 h, CCP transfusion resulted in transitioning from nasal cannula to room air (median 4 days vs. 1 day, P = 0·02). The length of stay was longer in CCP cases than controls (14·3 days vs. 11·4 days, P < 0·001). Patients with COVID‐19 who received CCP had a decreased risk of death at 7 and 14 days, but not 28 days after transfusion. To date, this is the largest study demonstrating a mortality benefit for the use of CCP in patients with COVID‐19 compared to matched controls.
Exome sequencing identifies SLIT2 variants in primary CNS lymphoma
Authors: Kaulen Leon D. , Erson‐Omay E. Zeynep , Henegariu Octavian , Karschnia Philipp , Huttner Anita , Günel Murat , Baehring Joachim M.
Published: January 2021

SLIT2 constitutes a known tumour suppressor gene, which has not yet been implicated in the pathogenesis of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). Performing exome sequencing on paired blood and tumour DNA samples from six treatment‐naïve PCNSL patients, we identified novel SLIT2 variants (p.N63S, p.T590M, p.T732S) that were associated with shorter progression‐free survival in our cohort and shorter overall survival in a large validation cohort of lymphoid malignancies from the cBio Cancer Genomics Portal. WNT‐ and NF‐κB‐reporter luciferase assays suggest detected alterations are loss‐of‐function variants. Given the possible prognostic implications, the role of SLIT2 in PCNSL pathogenesis and progression warrants further investigation.
The long‐term outcome of urethrotomy for primary urethral strictures: a population‐based analysis
Authors: Eredics Klaus , Röthlin Florian , Wachabauer David , Sevcenco Sabina , Marszalek Martin , Mock Karl , Madersbacher Stephan
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the long‐term outcome of endoscopic urethrotomy for primary urethral strictures based on a population‐based approach.

Patients and Methods

We analysed a nationwide database of all patients with urethral stricture disease who underwent endoscopic urethrotomy as a primary intervention between January 2006 and December 2007. All patients were followed individually for 7–9 years. Frequencies and types of surgical re‐interventions were documented. Repeat surgical interventions were stratified into three treatment types: urethrotomy, urethroplasty, and end‐to‐end urethral anastomosis.

Results

A total of 1203 men underwent urethrotomy during the index period. The median (SD, range) patient age was 63 (15.7, 20–85) years. A total of 136 patients (11%) died during follow‐up. Within the follow‐up period, 932 patients (78%) received no further surgical re‐intervention for recurrent disease, and 176 patients (14.6%) required one, 53 (4.5%) two, and 41 (3.4%) three or more procedures. The mean number of re‐interventions was 1.5/patient and the lowest re‐intervention rate was in patients aged ≥80 years (13.9%). In 236 cases (68%) at least one repeat urethrotomy was performed. An open reconstruction was performed in 87 cases (32%), with urethroplasty in 21 patients (24%), and end‐to‐end anastomosis in 66 patients (76%). The mean interval until re‐intervention was 29.5 months.

Conclusions

This long‐term population‐based study suggests that the invasive re‐treatment rate in men following initial urethrotomy is 22% within 8 years and lowest in the advanced age cohort.
A novel oncotherapy strategy: Direct thrombin inhibitors suppress progression, dissemination and spontaneous metastasis in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhao Bing , Wu Mengfang , Hu Zhihuang , Wang Tianfa , Yu Jinchao , Ma Yixin , Wang Qi , Zhang Yanling , Chen Di , Li Tianyu , Li Yaran , Yu Min , Wang Huijie , Mo Wei
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose

Cancer cachexia and cancer‐associated thrombosis are potentially fatal outcomes of advanced cancer. Nevertheless, thrombin expression in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) primary tumour tissues and the association between prognosis of NSCLC patients remain largely unknown.

Experimental Approach

Clinical pathological analysis was performed to determine the relationship between thrombin and tumour progression. Effects of r‐hirudin and direct thrombin inhibitor peptide (DTIP) on cancer progression were evaluated. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to explore the inhibition mechanism of r‐hirudin and DTIP. The therapeutic effect of the combination of DTIP and chemotherapy was determined.

Key Results

Thrombin expression in NSCLC tissues was closely related to clinicopathological features and the prognosis of patients. Thrombin deficiency inhibited tumour progression. The novel thrombin inhibitors, r‐hirudin and DTIP, inhibited cell invasion and metastasis in vitro. They inhibited tumour growth and metastasis in orthotopic lung cancer model, inhibited cell invasion, and prolonged survival after injection of tumour cells via the tail vein. They also inhibited angiogenesis and spontaneous metastases from subcutaneously inoculated tumours. The promotion by thrombin of invasion and metastasis was abolished in PAR‐1‐deficient NSCLC cells. r‐hirudin and DTIP inhibited tumour progression through the thrombin‐PAR‐1‐mediated RhoA and NF‐κB signalling cascades via inhibiting MMP9 and IL6 expression. DTIP potentiated chemotherapy‐induced growth and metastatic inhibition and inhibited chemotherapy‐induced resistance in mice.

Conclusions and Implications

Thrombin makes a substantial contribution, together with PAR‐1, to NSCLC malignancy. The anti‐coagulants, r‐hirudin and DTIP, could be used in anti‐tumour therapy and a combination of DTIP and chemotherapy might improve therapeutic effects.
The impact of molecular profile on the lymphatic spread pattern in stage III colon cancer
Authors: Song Jihyung , Kataoka Kozo , Yamada Takeshi , Shiozawa Manabu , Sonoyama Tomohiro , Beppu Naohito , Ueda Koji , Kuriyama Sho , Kanazawa Akiyoshi , Ikeda Masataka , Ceelen Wim
Published: January 2021

The anatomical spread of lymph node (LN) metastasis is of practical importance in the surgical management of colon cancer (CC). We examined the effect of KRAS, BRAF, and microsatellite instability (MSI) on LN count and anatomical spread pattern in stage III CC. We determined KRAS, BRAF, and MSI status from stage III CC patients. Biomarker status was correlated with LN count and anatomical spread pattern, which was classified as sequential or skipped. Relapse‐free survival (RFS) was estimated using Kaplan‐Meier method, and correlations were assessed using log‐rank and Cox regression analyses. We analyzed 369 stage III CC patients. The proportion of KRAS mutant (mt), BRAF mt, and MSI‐high (H) were 44.2% (163/344), 6.8% (25/344), and 6.8% (25/344), respectively. The mean number of metastatic LN was higher in microsatellite‐stable (MSS) compared with MSI patients (3.5 vs. 2.7, P = .0406), although no differences were observed in accordance with KRAS or BRAF status. Interestingly, patients with BRAF mt and MSI‐H were less likely to harbor skipped metastatic LN (9.3% vs 20% and 4% vs 10.5% compared with BRAF wild‐type (wt) and MSS, respectively), but KRAS status did not predict anatomical spread pattern. Patients with KRAS wt and MSI‐H showed superior RFS compared with KRAS mt and MSS patients, respectively, whereas BRAF status did not affect RFS. Differences exist in the anatomical pattern of invaded LN in accordance with the molecular status of stage III CC. Patients with MSI‐H CC have less invaded and skipped LN, suggesting that a tailored surgical approach is possible.
TARBP2 promotes tumor angiogenesis and metastasis by destabilizing antiangiogenic factor mRNAs
Authors: Zhou Meicen , Lu Wenbao , Li Bingwei , Liu Xueting , Li Ailing
Published: January 2021

Tumor angiogenesis is a crucial step in the further growth and metastasis of solid tumors. However, its regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Here, we showed that TARBP2, an RNA‐binding protein, played a role in promoting tumor‐induced angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo through degrading the mRNAs of antiangiogenic factors, including thrombospondin1/2 (THBS1/2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP1), and serpin family F member 1 (SERPINF1), by targeting their 3′untranslated regions (3′UTRs). Overexpression of TARBP2 promotes tumor cell–induced angiogenesis, while its knockdown inhibits tumor angiogenesis. Clinical cohort analysis revealed that high expression level of TARBP2 was associated with poor survival of lung cancer and breast cancer patients. Mechanistically, TARBP2 physically interacts with the stem‐loop structure located in the 3′UTR of antiangiogenic transcripts, leading to mRNA destabilization by the dsRNA‐binding domains 1/2 (dsRBDs1/2). Notably, the expression level of TARBP2 in human tumor tissue is negatively correlated with the expression of antiangiogenic factors, including THBS1/2, and brain‐specific angiogenesis inhibitor 1 (BAI1). Moreover, TARBP2 expression is strongly associated with tumor angiogenesis in a group of human lung cancer samples. Collectively, our results highlight that TARBP2 is a novel tumor angiogenesis regulator that could promote tumor angiogenesis by selectively downregulating antiangiogenic gene expression.
Children Persist Less When Adults Take Over
Authors: Leonard Julia A. , Martinez Dominique N. , Dashineau Samantha C. , Park Anne T. , Mackey Allyson P.
Published: January 2021

Children need to learn to persist through challenges, yet adults sometimes step in to solve problems for them. Here, we looked at how adult taking over related to children’s persistence. In an observational study (N = 34, ages 4–8), we found that parents who took over more often during a challenging puzzle task rated their children as dispositionally less persistent. To establish whether taking over can cause reduced persistence, we ran two preregistered experiments (N = 150, ages 4–5). Children assigned to a taking over condition persisted less on a subsequent task compared to those in a teaching or a baseline condition. Reframing the context did not ameliorate the negative impact of taking over. The results suggest that taking over impairs children’s persistence.
Pre‐ and postoperative 68Ga‐DOTATOC positron emission tomography for hormone‐secreting pituitary neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Tjörnstrand Axel , Casar‐Borota Olivera , Heurling Kerstin , Schöll Michael , Gjertsson Peter , Ragnarsson Oskar , Filipsson Nyström Helena
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are potential targets for detecting pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) that can be visualized effectively with 68Ga‐labelled PET tracers. With this study, we have evaluated the diagnostic properties of such a tracer, 68Ga‐DOTATOC, in patients with hormone‐producing PitNETs before and after surgery.

Design/Methods

This prospective case‐control study presents preoperative positron emission tomography (PET) and histopathological data in 18 patients with somatotroph (n = 8), corticotroph (n = 7) and thyrotroph (n = 3) PitNETs. Patients were scanned pre‐ and postoperatively with 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET. For the postoperative part of the study, patients with gonadotroph tumours (n = 7) were also included. Fifteen pituitary healthy controls underwent the same protocol once. The maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) was analysed in manually outlined regions around the tumour in patients and around the pituitary gland in controls. specimens were collected during surgery in subjects for assessment of adenohypophyseal tumour cell type and the SSTR expression.

Results

Thyrotroph tumours showed higher uptake (median SUVmax 41.1; IQR 37.4‐60.0) and corticotroph tumours lower uptake (SUVmax 6.8; 2.6‐9.3) than normal pituitary gland (SUVmax 13.8; 12.1‐15.5). The uptake in somatotroph tumours (SUVmax 15.9; 11.6‐19.7) was similar to the uptake in the pituitary gland. There was a strong correlation between SUVmax and SSTR2 expression (r = .75 (P < .01)). In the postoperative evaluation, PET was able to correlate tracer uptake with biochemical cure and noncure in patients with an abnormal postoperative magnetic resonance image and a preoperative tumour uptake SUVmax > 13.8.

Conclusions

68Ga‐DOTATOC PET can be used to detect thyrotroph tumours in the pre‐ and postoperative imaging assessment. Corticotroph tumours had a significantly lower uptake compared to the pituitary gland but without a distinct increased tumour uptake the clinical postoperative value is limited.
Thyroid eye disease: Redefining its management—A review
Authors: Jain Amy P. , Jaru‐Ampornpan Pimkwan , Douglas Raymond S.
Published: January 2021

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a debilitating, vision threatening disease that dramatically alters patients' quality of life. Until recently, the management of TED is a long arduous course with supportive therapy, followed by an extensive surgical treatment plan to reverse the disease endpoints. Teprotumumab offers an early, safe therapeutic intervention to help reverse disease end points such as diplopia and proptosis and improve quality of life.
Improving clinical practice in ENT: Lessons learnt from the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tysome James R.
Published: January 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the ENT community has demonstrated strong clinical leadership, adaptability to rapid change, enhanced clinical pathways and local networks, widespread use of digital technology for consultation and teaching and redirection of research programmes. These have permanently changed the way we work and, when the current global pandemic improves as COVID‐19 infections drop and vaccination programmes are rolled out, we should ensure that the positive changes that have been made are embedded in clinical practice to improve patient care.
Urinary dysfunction after colorectal cancer treatment and its impact on quality of life – a national cross‐sectional study in women
Authors: Sinimäki Saija , Elfeki Hossam , Kristensen Marianne Højsgaard , Laurberg Søren , Emmertsen Katrine J.
Published: January 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate urinary dysfunction and its impact on the quality of life of colorectal cancer survivors. We also wanted to identify the risk factors for impaired urinary function.

Method

A national cross‐sectional study was performed including patients treated for colorectal cancer between 2001 and 2014. Patients answered questionnaires regarding urinary function and quality of life, including the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐FLUTS), measuring filling, voiding and incontinence. Data were compared with data on demographics and treatment‐related factors from the Danish Colorectal Cancer Group (DCCG) database.

Results

We found that rectal cancer treatment significantly impaired urinary function compared with colon cancer treatment (filling score p = 0.003, voiding p < 0.0001, incontinence p = 0.0001). Radiotherapy was the single most influential risk factor for high filling (p = 0.0043), voiding (p < 0.0001) and incontinence (p < 0.0001) scores, whereas type of rectal resection was only significant in crude analysis. Urinary dysfunction was strongly associated with an impaired quality of life.

Conclusion

Urinary dysfunction is common after treatment for colorectal cancer, particularly if the treatment includes radiotherapy. All patients must be informed of the risk before cancer treatment, and functional outcome should be routinely assessed at follow‐up.
Development of a SARS‐CoV‐2 rapid antibody detection kit and study on dynamic changes in antibodies in infected patients
Authors: Wang Huihui , Li Xuemei , Li Tao , Wang Lianzi , Wang Li , Lin Jiawang , Zhang Shubing , Xu Yuanhong , Wei Wei
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has spread rapidly to 185 regions and countries around the world with more than 2.8 million confirmed infections and 203,044 deaths. Respiratory diseases caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 are serious threats to human health.

Objectives

To develop a rapid detection kit for new coronavirus antibodies and use it to study the dynamic changes in antibodies in clinically confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected patients.

Methods

The SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM/IgG antibody test kit (colloidal gold method) was developed. Serum SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and IgG antibodies were tested in SARS‐CoV‐2‐ and non‐SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected persons, respectively.

Results and conclusion

The sensitivities of the SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM/IgG antibody test kit (colloidal gold method) were 50%, 70%, 92.5% and 97.5% after 1–3 days, 4–6 days, 7–9 days and >9 days of admission, respectively, and the specificities of the IgM, IgG and IgM + IgG antibodies were all 100%. Using the SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM/IgG antibody test kit (colloidal gold method), the positive rates of SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and IgG antibodies increased from 50% to 92.5% after 1–3 days, 4–6 days and 7–9 days of admission, which showed an increasing trend. The titers of the SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and IgG antibodies in the positive specimens increased with the length of admission.
Should CT be used for the diagnosis of RT‐PCR‐negative suspected COVID‐19 patients?
Authors: Rona Günay , Arifoğlu Meral , Voyvoda Nuray , Batırel Ayşe
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The diagnosis of patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) suspicion but negative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) test is challenging.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of chest computed tomography (CT) in RT‐PCR‐negative patients with suspected COVID‐19.

Materials and methods

The study included patients who were admitted to our hospital with the suspicion of COVID‐19 between 1 April 2020 and 30 April 2020 and tested negative after RT‐PCR test, and underwent CT for further diagnosis. Initial CT findings were classified as typical, indeterminate, and atypical for COVID‐19, and negative for pneumonia. Incidental findings on CT were noted.

Results

Of the 338 patients with a mean age of 57 years (min 18 years–max 96 years), 168 (49.70%) were male and 170 (50.29%) were female. The most common symptoms were cough (58.87%), fever (40.82%), and dyspnea (39.34%). The CT findings were typical for COVID‐19 in 109 (32.24%) patients, indeterminate in 47 (13.90%) patients, and atypical in 77 (22.78%) patients. The CT findings of 105 (31.06%) patients were negative for pneumonia. Incidental lung nodules suspicious of malignancy were identified in seven patients. Seventy‐seven patients (22.78%) had extrapulmonary incidental findings

Conclusion

The diagnostic value of CT in RT‐PCR‐negative patients with suspected COVID‐19 is not very high. Based on clinical, laboratory, and chest x‐ray findings, it may be more appropriate to refer patients to CT after the first triage, when necessary.
Association between p73 G4C14‐to‐A4T14 polymorphism and lung cancer risk: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Du Fenghua , Wang Xiaojun , Qin Dandan , Zhu Rongjun , Kong Weibo , Kong Xiangzhou , Min Xuhong
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the p73 G4C14‐to‐A4T14 polymorphism (hereafter, G4C14‐to‐A4T14) and lung cancer risk.

Methods

The studies on the relationship between G4C14‐A4T14 and lung cancer risk published as of November 5, 2018, were comprehensively searched in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Wanfang database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and China Biology Medicine (CBM). The last update was on May 24, 2019. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 12.0.

Results

The association between G4C14‐A4T14 and lung cancer risk was analyzed in nine studies. The findings indicate no association between G4C14‐to‐A4T14 and lung cancer risk (allele model: OR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.73–1.11, I2 = 86.0%, P = .330; dominant model: OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.74–1.17, I2 = 82.6%, P = .551; recessive model: OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.50–1.13, I2 = 75.2%, P = .165; homozygote model: OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.47–1.17, I2 = 79.6%, P = .199; heterozygote model: OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.80–1.21, I2 = 75.8%, P = .879). The heterogeneity between subgroups by cancer types and genotyping method was significantly reduced. After the deletion of suspected duplicates, no association was found between G4C14‐to‐A4T14 and lung cancer susceptibility.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis confirms that G4C14‐to‐A4T14 is not significantly related to lung cancer risk.
Assessing risk of Lymantria dispar L. invasion management to monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus)
Authors: Nunez‐Mir Gabriela C. , Walter Jonathan A. , Johnson Derek M.
Published: January 2021

Conflicting conservation goals that lead to management tradeoffs are not uncommon in conservation practice. In this study, we explore a potential conflict between the management of a destructive invasive insect pest, Lymantria dispar, and conservation of a widely declining iconic species, the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Specifically, we assess the risk of exposure of susceptible monarch larvae to aerial applications of Btk, a Lepidoptera‐specific larvicide used in L. dispar suppression and eradication. Our findings indicate minimal conflict between L. dispar management and monarch conservation, as spatial overlap between Btk aerial applications and monarch larvae was found to be marginal. Furthermore, the results of our study indicated specific actions management can take to further minimize potential conflict between these conservation goals. Our study could serve as a guide to other efforts to evaluate potential tradeoffs between the management of invasive species and the conservation of vulnerable species.
Habitat use as indicator of adaptive capacity to climate change
Authors: Teitelbaum Claire S. , Sirén Alexej P. K. , Coffel Ethan , Foster Jane R. , Frair Jacqueline L. , Hinton Joseph W. , Horton Radley M. , Kramer David W. , Lesk Corey , Raymond Colin , Wattles David W. , Zeller Katherine A. , Morelli Toni Lyn
Published: January 2021

Aim

Populations of cold‐adapted species at the trailing edges of geographic ranges are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change from the combination of exposure to warm temperatures and high sensitivity to heat. Many of these species are predicted to decline under future climate scenarios, but they could persist if they can adapt to warming climates either physiologically or behaviourally. We aim to understand local variation in contemporary habitat use and use this information to identify signs of adaptive capacity. We focus on moose (Alces alces), a charismatic species of conservation and public interest.

Location

The northeastern United States, along the trailing edge of the moose geographic range in North America.

Methods

We compiled data on occurrences and habitat use of moose from remote cameras and GPS collars across the northeastern United States. We use these data to build habitat suitability models at local and regional spatial scales and then to predict future habitat suitability under climate change. We also use fine‐scale GPS data to model relationships between habitat use and temperature on a daily temporal scale and to predict future habitat use.

Results

We find that habitat suitability for moose will decline under a range of climate change scenarios. However, moose across the region differ in their use of climatic and habitat space, indicating that they could exhibit adaptive capacity. We also find evidence for behavioural responses to weather, where moose increase their use of forested wetland habitats in warmer places and/or times.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that there will be significant shifts in moose distribution due to climate change. However, if there is spatial variation in thermal tolerance, trailing‐edge populations could adapt to climate change. We highlight that prioritizing certain habitats for conservation (i.e., thermal refuges) could be crucial for this adaptation.
Intermittent serial casting for wrist flexion deformity in children with spastic cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dursun Nigar , Gokbel Tugba , Akarsu Melike , Bonikowski Marcin , Pyrzanowska Weronika , Dursun Erbil
Published: January 2021

Aim

To assess the efficacy of intermittent serial casting in conjunction with occupational therapy and botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT‐A) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) presenting spastic wrist flexion deformity.

Method

This was a controlled, prospective study in which 34 children (19 females, 15 males; mean [SD] 11y [4y 6mo]) were randomly allocated to casting or control groups in a ratio of 2:1. Both groups were subjected to BoNT‐A treatment and occupational therapy. The casting group additionally received a series of progressive casts intermittently for three consecutive weekends. Outcome measures consisted of passive range of motion (PROM) as assessed by goniometer, muscle tone by Modified Ashworth scale (MAS), and spasticity by Tardieu Scale. Assessments were done at baseline, week 4, and week 12.

Results

Baseline characteristics of casting and control groups were comparable. PROM, MAS, and Tardieu angle of catch (XV3) of the casting and control groups significantly improved after treatment (p<0.001 for all). Nevertheless the mean change from baseline MAS at week 12, mean changes from baseline PROM, Tardieu XV3, and the spasticity grade (Y) at week 4 and week 12 of the casting group showed statistical superiority over those of the control group (p<0.05 for all).

Interpretation

Children with CP presenting spastic wrist flexion deformity might gain additional benefits from supplementary intermittent serial casting as well as BoNT‐A injections and occupational therapy. Serial casting could be considered as a complementary treatment to BoNT‐A and occupational therapy in children with clinically significant PROM limitations.

What this paper adds

Intermittent serial casting is a useful treatment option in children with cerebral palsy with spastic wrist flexion deformity.

Intermittent serial casting supplementation to botulinum neurotoxin A and occupational therapy provides additional benefits on passive range of motion, muscle tone, and spasticity.
Importance of non‐native isopods and other terrestrial prey resources to steelhead/rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in coastal streams in Big Sur, California
Authors: Rundio David E. , Lindley Steven T.
Published: January 2021

Terrestrial invertebrates provide important prey subsidies to many stream fishes. Non‐native invertebrates are widespread in many ecosystems, yet they have received little attention in studies of subsidies to stream food webs. We sampled coastal basins in Big Sur, California, to determine the importance of non‐native isopods and other terrestrial invertebrates in the summer diet of steelhead/rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and to estimate the density of isopods along streambanks. Terrestrial invertebrates contributed more than 40% of the energetic value of O. mykiss stomach contents at most sites and up to 75% at some locations. Non‐native isopods Armadillidium vulgare or Porcellio scaber occurred at all sites, reaching mean densities of up to 13 individuals/m2 on streambanks, and accounted for up to 20% of the energy in the diet. The proportion of non‐native isopods in the diet was positively correlated with their density at a site, and the frequency and energetic value of terrestrial invertebrates and non‐native isopods in O. mykiss diets increased with fish size. In terms of the broader diet, the energetic value and taxonomic composition of stomach contents varied among sites but there was no major geographic pattern or trend to the variation, and overall O. mykiss diets were generally similar across the region. Our results highlight that non‐native terrestrial invertebrates may provide a considerable but overlooked subsidy to stream fishes.
Phylogenetic and pathogenicity evaluation of the marasmioid fungus Marasmius palmivorus causing fruit bunch rot disease of oil palm
Authors: Maizatul‐Suriza Mohamed , Suhanah Jaabi , Madihah Ahmad Zairun , Idris Abu Seman , Mohidin Hasmah
Published: January 2021

Marasmius palmivorus is a marasmioid fungal species that exhibits parasitic behaviour, although most marasmioids are rarely parasitic. The fungus has been reported to cause fruit bunch rot disease of oil palm and coconut, but only a few studies on its pathogenic behaviour are available, particularly on oil palm. Hence, there is a need to assess the ability of the fungus to act as a pathogen and to study its molecular evolution and taxonomy. Nine isolates of M. palmivorus were successfully isolated from basidiocarps and diseased fruitlets of oil palm collected from oil palm plantations and were morphologically characterized on potato dextrose agar (PDA) followed by molecular identification based on nucleotide sequence alignments of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene clusters with sequences from GenBank. Koch's Postulates confirmed that M. palmivorus could infect oil palm fruitlets with symptoms similar to those observed for bunch rot disease. Molecular phylogenetic studies using nucleotide sequences of ITS and the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nLSU) showed that isolates sharing the same phenotypic characteristics of Marasmius palmivorus and Marasmiellus palmivorus are monophyletic and share a common ancestor. The fungus has also been shown to be more closely related to the genus Marasmius than Marasmiellus; therefore, we support retention of the taxon name of the pathogen causing bunch rot disease of oil palm as Marasmius palmivorus.
Muscles in and around the ear as the source of “physiological noise” during auditory selective attention: A review and novel synthesis
Authors: Bell Andrew , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor
Published: January 2021

The sensitivity of the auditory system is regulated via two major efferent pathways: the medial olivocochlear system that connects to the outer hair cells, and by the middle ear muscles—the tensor tympani and stapedius. The role of the former system in suppressing otoacoustic emissions has been extensively studied, but that of the complementary network has not. In studies of selective attention, decreases in otoacoustic emissions from contralateral stimulation have been ascribed to the medial olivocochlear system, but the acknowledged problem is that the results can be confounded by parallel muscle activity. Here, the potential role of the muscle system is examined through a wide but not exhaustive review of the selective attention literature, and the unifying hypothesis is made that the prominent “physiological noise” detected in such experiments, which is reduced during attention, is the sound produced by the muscles in proximity to the ear—including the middle ear muscles. All muscles produce low‐frequency sound during contraction, but the implications for selective attention experiments—in which muscles near the ear are likely to be active—have not been adequately considered. This review and synthesis suggests that selective attention may reduce physiological noise in the ear canal by reducing the activity of muscles close to the ear. Indeed, such an experiment has already been done, but the significance of its findings have not been widely appreciated. Further sets of experiments are needed in this area.
Spatial and temporal genetic variation in an exploited reef fish: The effects of exploitation on cohort genetic structure
Authors: Taboun Zahra S. , Walter Ryan P. , Ovenden Jennifer R. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: January 2021

Many coral reef fishes are fished, often resulting in detrimental genetic effects; however, reef fishes often show unpredictable patterns of genetic variation, which potentially mask the effects of fishing. Our goals were to characterize spatial and temporal genetic variation and determine the effects of fishing on an exploited reef fish, Plectropomus leopardus, Lacepède (the common coral trout). To determine population structure, we genotyped 417 Great Barrier Reef coral trout from four populations sampled in 2 years (1996 and 2004) at nine microsatellite loci. To test for exploitation effects, we additionally genotyped 869 individuals from a single cohort (ages 3–5) across eight different reefs, including fished and control populations. Genetic structure differed substantially in the two sampled years, with only 1 year exhibiting isolation by distance. Thus, genetic drift likely plays a role in shaping population genetic structure in this species. Although we found no loss of genetic diversity associated with exploitation, our relatedness patterns show that pulse fishing likely affects population genetics. Additionally, genetic structure in the cohort samples likely reflected spatial variation in recruitment contributing to genetic structure at the population level. Overall, we show that fishing does impact coral reef fishes, highlighting the importance of repeated widespread sampling to accurately characterize the genetic structure of reef fishes, as well as the power of analysing cohorts to avoid the impacts of recruitment‐related genetic swamping. The high temporal and spatial variability in genetic structure, combined with possible selection effects, will make conservation/management of reef fish species complex.
An investigation of behaviour during tacking‐up and mounting in ridden sports and leisure horses
Authors: Dyson S. , Bondi A. , Routh J. , Pollard D. , Preston T. , McConnell C. , Kydd J. H.
Published: January 2021

Background

There has been no large‐scale, evidence‐based study on horses’ behaviour while being tacked ‐up or mounted.

Objectives

To describe equine behaviour during tacking‐up and mounting.

Study design

Cross‐sectional, prospective observational study, using a convenience sample.

Methods

A purpose‐designed protocol for documenting behaviour during tacking‐up and mounting was developed. Horses were recruited from 11 locations, from both amateur and professional riders. Horses (n = 193) were observed during acquisition of predefined information from the owners. Behaviour data were recorded during bridling, placement of the saddle, girthing and mounting.

Results

The majority (67%) were bridled first. The median sum of abnormal behaviours during tacking‐up was 10/64 (interquartile range [IQR] 7.13; range 0.33). There was an equal frequency of abnormal behaviours during bridling and saddling in 52% of horses; 34% of horses showed more abnormal behaviours during saddling than bridling; 15% of horses showed more abnormal behaviours during bridling than saddling. The duration of abnormal behaviours related to total tacking‐up time was 25–75% in 51% of horses. There was a positive relationship between the sum of abnormal behaviours and the duration of abnormal behaviours (P = 0.0001). Repeatedly chomping on the bit occurred most frequently during bridling (67%). Ears back (57–65%) and an intense stare (54–62%) were similar in all phases. Fidgeting was more common during saddle placement (32%) and girthing (21%), than bridling (9%). Tail swishing was more frequent during saddle placement (20%) and girthing (34%), than bridling (10%). Turning the head to the girth was only seen during saddle placement and girthing (11 and 40%, respectively), in addition to attempting to bite (5 and 15%, respectively) and rubbing the nose (8 and 21%, respectively). The median sum of abnormal behaviours during mounting was 1/30 (IQR 1.3; range 0.12).

Main limitations

Absence of many nonlame horses with correctly fitting tack.

Conclusion

Abnormal behaviour during tacking‐up and mounting was common.
Salmonella enterica subsp. arizonae‐associated abortion in a mare
Authors: Mayhew K. K. , Clarke L. , Howerth E. W.
Published: January 2021

Abortion in mares can be a financially devastating event to horse owners and the equine industry. In this case report, we describe the gross, histopathological and microbiological findings associated with an abortion caused by Salmonella enterica subsp. arizonae, which should be considered in cases of abortion and metritis. Gross and histopathological evaluation of fetal and placental tissue were consistent with ascending septic placentitis resulting in fetal septicaemia. S. enterica subsp. arizonae was isolated from the placenta, lung and fetal gastric contents. Diagnosis was confirmed by MALDI‐TOF MS. To our knowledge, this subspecies of S. enterica has not been previously reported as an isolate in a case of late‐term equine abortion. A retrospective search of abortion cases at our institution was done, and no similar cases were identified for comparison. This case demonstrates S. enterica subsp. arizonae, although not previously reported as a cause of abortion in pregnant mares and uncommonly isolated from equids in the literature, may cause late‐term abortions in susceptible animals. This pathogen should be considered in cases of abortion outbreaks on a farm and merits investigation of the carrier status of mares within a herd.
Anticonvulsive effects of edaravone on penicillin‐induced focal onset seizure model in the conscious rats
Authors: Kurt Semiha , Aygun Hatice
Published: January 2021

Edaravone is a potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory agent that is used in the clinic. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the chronic treatment effect of edaravone on penicillin‐induced epileptiform activity. Twenty‐eight Wistar rats were randomly divided into a total of four groups as penicillin control and edaravone pretreatment groups (1, 10, and 30mg/kg). Firstly, permanent electrodes for electrocorticography (ECoG) recording and canula for penicillin injection were placed as stereotactic under anesthesia. At the end of the recovery period, edaravone pretreatment groups received different doses of edaravone by intraperitoneal injection for 14 days and before 30‐min penicillin microinjection. Epileptiform activity was induced by injecting 500 IU penicillin through the intracortical cannula. The effects of edaravone pretreatment on epileptiform activity were evaluated by using both electrophysiological and behavioral parameters. Edaravone pretreatment suppressed epileptiform activity by reducing the mean spike frequency and the behavior scores in ECoG recording. The results of the present study indicated that the use of chronic edaravone had an anticonvulsant effect on penicillin‐induced focal onset epileptic activity. Edaravone had an anticonvulsant effect even at low doses.
Na+, K+‐ATPase participates in the protective mechanism of rat cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion through the interaction with glutamate transporter‐1
Authors: Li Lin‐Lin , Ke Xue‐Ying , Jiang Chen , Qin Shi‐Qi , Liu Yang‐Yang , Xian Xiao‐Hui , Liu Li‐Zhe , He Jin‐Chen , Chen Ya‐Meng , An Hong‐Fei , Sun Nan , Hu Yue‐Hua , Wang Yan , Zhang Li‐Nan , Lu Qi‐Yong
Published: January 2021

Glutamate excitotoxicity in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion is an important cause of neurological damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of Na+, K+‐ATPase (NKA) involved in l ow concentration of ouabain (Oua, activating NKA)‐induced protection of rat cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion injury. The 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and neurological deficit scores (NDS) were performed to evaluate rat cerebral injury degree respectively at 2 h, 6 h, 1 d and 3 d after reperfusion of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) 2 h in rats. NKA α1/α2 subunits and glutamate transporter‐1 (GLT‐1) protein expression were investigated by Western blotting. The cerebral infarct volume ratio were evidently decreased in Oua group vs MCAO/R group at 1 d and 3 d after reperfusion of 2 h MCAO in rats (*p ＜ 0.05 ). Moreover, NDS were not significantly different (p ＞ 0.05 ). NKA α1 was decreased at 6 h and 1 d after reperfusion of 2 h MCAO in rats, and was improved in Oua group. However, NKA α1 and α2 were increased at 3 d after reperfusion of 2 h MCAO in rats, and was decreased in Oua group. GLT‐1 was decreased at 6 h, 1 d and 3 d after reperfusion of 2 h MCAO in rats, and was improved in Oua group. These data indicated that l ow concentration of Oua could improve MCAO/R injury through probably changing NKA α1/α2 and GLT‐1 protein expression, then increasing GLT‐1 function and promoting Glu transport and absorption, which could be useful to determine potential therapeutic strategies for patients with stroke. Low concentration of Oua improved rat MCAO/R injury via NKA α1/α2 and GLT‐1.
Effects of mowing regimes on forage yield and crude protein of Leymus chinensis (Trin.) Tzvel in Songnen grassland
Authors: Zhao Chengzhen , Li Qiang , Cheng Long , Zhong Rongzhen
Published: January 2021

Forage dry matter (DM) yield and its nutrient content are important in livestock nutrition; however, they have distinct, even opposite responses to mowing regimes. To optimize forage resources, two independent field experiments were conducted to determine effects of initial mowing time (15‐day intervals from May 15 to September 1) and mowing frequency (one to five times per year) on DM yield and nutritive value of Leymus chinensis (Trin.) Tzvel. The greatest cumulative DM yield (cDMY), pre‐mowing crude protein yield (pCPY) and cumulative crude protein yield (cCPY) were attained when initial mowing occurred from July 15 to August 15. The crude protein (CP) concentration of pDMY was higher, whereas fiber concentrations were lower, when initial mowing was from May 15 to June 15, with opposite results when the initial mowing was delayed (July 1 to September 30). When mowing three times annually, cDMY and cCPY of L. chinensis were higher (p < .05) than with less frequent mowing. With more than three mowings, accumulated CP yield of L. chinensis was not significantly affected. With four or five yearly mowings, accumulated DM yield of L. chinensis decreased significantly compared to mowing one to three times. In conclusion, based on DM yield and nutritive value, the optimal initial mowing date ranged from July 15 to August 15, whereas optimal mowing frequency was three times yearly.
Spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid‐venous fistulas in patients with orthostatic headaches and normal conventional brain and spine imaging
Authors: Schievink Wouter I. , Maya Marcel , Prasad Ravi S. , Wadhwa Vikram S. , Cruz Rachelle B. , Moser Franklin G. , Nuno Miriam
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the occurrence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)‐venous fistulas, a type of spinal CSF leak that cannot be detected with routine computerized tomography myelography, among patients with orthostatic headaches but normal brain and spine magnetic resonance imaging.

Background

Spontaneous spinal CSF leaks cause orthostatic headaches but their detection may require sophisticated spinal imaging techniques.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of patients with orthostatic headaches and normal brain and conventional spine imaging who underwent digital subtraction myelography (DSM) to look for CSF‐venous fistulas, between May 2018 and May 2020, at a quaternary referral center for spontaneous intracranial hypotension.

Results

The mean age of the 60 consecutive patients (46 women and 14 men) was 46 years (range, 13–83 years), who had been suffering from orthostatic headaches between 1 and 180 months (mean, 43 months). DSM demonstrated a spinal CSF‐venous fistula in 6 (10.0%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.8–20.5%) of the 60 patients. The mean age of these five women and one man was 50 years (range, 41–59 years). Spinal CSF‐venous fistulas were identified in 6 (19.4%; 95% CI: 7.5–37.5%) of 31 patients with spinal meningeal diverticula but in none (0%; 95% CI: 0–11.9%) of the 29 patients without spinal meningeal diverticula (p = 0.024). All CSF‐venous fistulas were located in the thoracic spine. All patients underwent uneventful surgical ligation of the fistula. Complete and sustained resolution of symptoms was obtained in five patients, while in one patient, partial recurrence of symptoms was noted 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

Concerns about a spinal CSF leak should not be dismissed in patients suffering from orthostatic headaches when conventional imaging turns out to be normal, even though the yield of identifying a CSF‐venous fistula is low.