bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The postcranial anatomy ofWhatcheeria deltaeand its implications for the family Whatcheeriidae
Authors: Otoo Benjamin K A , Bolt John R , Lombard R Eric , Angielczyk Kenneth D , Coates Michael I
Published: December 2020

Here we describe the postcranial skeleton and present the first full-body reconstruction of the early tetrapod Whatcheeria deltae from the Viséan of Iowa. The skeletal proportions, including an elongate neck and large limbs, are unlike those of other Devonian and Mississippian tetrapods. The robust limbs of Whatcheeria appear adapted for a walking gait, but the lateral lines of the cranium are fundamentally unsuited for sustained subaerial exposure. Thus, although Whatcheeria bears a general resemblance to certain terrestrially adapted Permian and Triassic members of crown tetrapod lineages, its unusual form signals a broader range of early amphibious morphologies and habits than previously considered. From the exceptionally rich collection it is evident that most Whatcheeria specimens represent immature individuals. Rare specimens suggest an adult body size of at least 2 m, over twice that of the holotype. Further comparison suggests that the Pederpes holotype might also be a juvenile and reveals a combination of hindlimb characters unique to Whatcheeria and Pederpes. These new data contribute to a revised diagnosis of the family Whatcheeriidae and a re-evaluation of fragmentary Devonian–Carboniferous fossils reported as ‘whatcheeriid’ but sharing no synapomorphies with the more precisely defined clade.
How close are we to anterior robotic skull base surgery?
Authors: Campbell Raewyn G. , Harvey Richard J.
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

The application of robotic surgery to anterior skull base disease has yet to be defined despite the potential for improved tumour resection with less morbidity in this region. Complex anatomy and restricted access have limited the development of robotic anterior skull base surgery.

Recent findings

A limited number of transoral robotic surgical anterior skull base procedures have been undertaken; however, there are significant limitations to the utilization of this technology in the anterior skull base. In this article, the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of robotic anterior skull base surgery are discussed. Currently, the major limitation is the size of the robotic endoscope and of the available instrumentation. Technological advancements that provide promise for the future development of robotic anterior skull base surgery are in development, such as single-port robots, flexible instrument systems and miniaturization and growth of minimally invasive platforms.

Although transnasal access to the skull base is not possible with the currently available robotic systems, promising technology does exist and is in development. Robotic anterior skull base surgery promises to provide greater access to skull base disease, improve oncologic results, reduce morbidity and to reduce the ergonomic burden on the surgeon.
Hybrid Schwannoma/Perineurioma: Morphologic Variations and Genetic Profiles
Authors: Hirose Takanori , Kobayashi Anna , Nobusawa Sumihito , Jimbo Naoe
Published: December 2020

To clarify the morphologic spectrum and molecular profiles of hybrid schwannoma/perineurioma (HSP), we investigated 15 tumors clinicopathologically and cytogenetically. HSP was classified into 2 morphologic types: mixed cellular and combined tumor types. The former comprising of 14 tumors mostly arose in the subcutaneous tissue of the extremities and the trunk of middle-aged adults. They were well-circumscribed and composed of elongated spindle-shaped tumor cells arranged in storiform and whorl patterns. Immunostaining revealed a mixed cellular proliferation of S-100 protein-positive and SOX10-positive Schwann cells and epithelial membrane antigen-positive, claudin 1-positive, and GLUT1-positive perineurial cells. During follow-up, no tumors were found to have recurred in any cases. In contrast, in the combined tumor type arising in the mediastinum of a young male with neurofibromatosis type 2, the intraneural perineurioma-like areas, characterized by small whorl-like structures, were present in plexiform schwannoma-like areas. No recurrence was noted in the case. Molecular analyses (array comparative genomic hybridization and fluorescence in situ hybridization) revealed LOH 22q in 2 tumors of 5 studied: one each of the mixed cellular and combined tumor types. Although the same diagnostic term, HSP, has been applied to both mixed and combined types, they should be separated from each other.
Job satisfaction factors for housekeepers in the hotel industry: a global comparative analysis
Authors: Andrade Maureen Snow , Miller Doug , Westover Jonathan H.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study offers a global comparative analysis of variables associated with job satisfaction, specifically work-life balance, intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, and work relations on job satisfaction for hotel housekeepers.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes these variants across 29 countries using International Social Survey Program data.

Findings

Findings indicate significant differences in job satisfaction for hotel housekeepers across countries, lower job satisfaction for hospitality occupations compared to all other occupational categories, lower job satisfaction for hotel housekeepers than employees in other hospitality occupations, and a statistically significant positive impact of some elements of work-life balance, intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, and coworker relations on job satisfaction.

Originality/value

The hospitality industry is characterized by poor work-life balance, high turnover rates and limited rewards. Hotel housekeepers report lower levels of satisfaction than other hospitality workers in terms of work-life balance, pay, relationships with managers, useful work and interesting work. Housekeepers play an important role in hotel quality and guest satisfaction. As such, understanding and addressing factors contributing to job satisfaction for hotel housekeepers is critical for managers
Circular economy versus planetary limits: a Slovak forestry sector case study
Authors: Beckmann Andreas , Sivarajah Uthayasankar , Irani Zahir
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Circular economy is presented as an approach to economic growth that is in line with sustainable development. However, the recent literature has highlighted the limits of the concept in terms of environmental sustainability. The study examines the relationship between circular economy and conservation of ecosystems, using a case study on the implications of a circular economy for Slovak forests and forest sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a qualitative methodology through a focused review of the relevant literature on circular economy and sustainable development and primary data gathered through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts and practitioners in the forest sector, forest conservation and circular economy context, both from within as well as outside of Slovakia.

Findings

The study finds that the forestry sector has an important role to play in a shift to a circular economy in Slovakia, with significant opportunities for improved efficiency as well as substitution of wood for non-renewable resources. There is also growing potential for ecosystem stewardship and restoration. However, the increased application of biomass could crowd out other needs, including for biodiversity. Safeguarding these services depends ultimately on good governance.

Originality/value

The study highlights that circular economy taken in a narrow focus on resource efficiency is insufficient to ensure environmental sustainability but rather needs to be set within the broader environmental and social context.
Expansionary monetary policy and corporate investment in an emerging market
Authors: Tran Quoc Trung
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of monetary loosening on corporate investment in an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins this study by using a dynamic model to investigate the effect of monetary loosening on corporate investment. This paper uses money supply growth as a proxy for monetary loosening, as the State Bank of Vietnam relies mainly on a quantity-based policy. Next, this paper continues to analyze whether cash holdings are able to mitigate this effect. Finally, this paper examines the effect of monetary loosening on investment smoothing and the mitigating role of cash holding. The research sample includes 4,868 from 617 firms. This paper uses different regression techniques (i.e. pooled ordinary least squares clustered by firm, fixed effects, random effects and system generalized method of moments).

Findings

The research findings show that money supply growth is positively related to both corporate investment and investment smoothing. The effect of monetary loosening on corporate investment is mitigated by corporate cash holding. Moreover, this paper finds that the mitigating effect of cash holdings is stronger for financially constrained firms and non-state-owned enterprises.

Originality/value

Prior studies only focus on corporate investment under-tightening monetary policy; however, there is no research on firm investment under monetary loosening in an emerging market.
The public as projection
Authors: Morgner Christian
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To develop a new conceptualisation of the public particular emphasis is placed on later developments in the work of Niklas Luhmann using theoretical terms such as medium, form and observation.

Design/methodology/approach

Current theoretical approaches conceptualise the public domain as a sphere, field or system, and theorists disagree about the range of meanings of the term public. While acknowledging that diversity of meanings, this paper seeks to avoid the limitations imposed by figures such as sphere, field or system by invoking the sociological theory developed by Niklas Luhmann.

Findings

Building on Luhmann’s work, the public is conceived here as (connection) medium and projection.

Originality/value

The paper draws on a range of diverse phenomena to illustrate the wider scope of this conception and its potential application, including public interactions, the transformation of texts as publications, audience formation, the role of media communication and the concept of traffic. In so doing, the paper contributes to the development of system theory as well as to a wide-ranging theory of the public.
Evaluation of an occupation‐based, mental‐health program: Meeting being, belonging and becoming needs
Authors: Rebeiro Gruhl Karen L. , Boucher Martin , Lacarte Sara
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Being, belonging and becoming are important theoretical constructs for occupational scientists and therapists, and for members of Northern Initiative for Social Action (NISA), located in northern Ontario, Canada. Collaborative research with service users guided the development of NISA and its evaluation tool: the 3B~S Scale. The aim of this paper is to share the results of the 2018 program evaluation.

Methods

113 participants completed a questionnaire consisting of the 3B~S Scale, demographic and program satisfaction questions, and open‐ended questions. Quantitative analysis used descriptive statistics followed by ordinal logistic regression to determine the intersectional effects of gender, race and age on becoming and system impact outcomes. Open‐ended responses were analysed thematically and triangulated with quantitative findings.

Results

Participants agreed‐to‐strongly agreed that the program met their 3B needs (x = 4.20, SD = 0.24). Participants indicated strong satisfaction with the program (x = 4.38, SD = 0.66), and agreement that participating in the program reduced their reliance on other system‐based services (x = 3.96, SD = 0.24). The regression revealed no significant differences in gender, race or age in predicting six of 10 outcomes examined; race was not significant for any outcome. Younger females were more likely to agree that the work they do is part of a larger community charitable purpose, the program is helping them to achieve their goals, and is increasing their involvement in community. Younger participants were more likely to agree that participation facilitated a return to school or employment than older participants.

Conclusions

Occupation‐based, mental health programs that address participants' being, belonging and becoming needs can contribute to improvements in perceived mental health and well‐being, as well as to improved community and system usage outcomes. The NISA model provides a framework for clinically operationalising the 3B's and may provide a unique contribution to ongoing theoretical discussions of these constructs within occupational therapy and science.
iTRAQ analysis reveals the effect of gabD and sucA gene knockouts on lysine metabolism and crystal protein formation in Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Yi Zixian , Zhang Tong , Xie Junyan , Zhu Zirong , Luo Sisi , Zhou Kexuan , Zhou Pengji , Chen Wenhui , Zhao Xiaoli , Sun Yunjun , Xia Liqiu , Ding Xuezhi
Published: December 2020

Lysine metabolism plays an important role in the formation of the insecticidal crystal proteins of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). The genes lam, gabD and sucA encode three key enzymes of the lysine metabolic pathway in Bt4.0718. The lam gene mainly affects the cell growth at stable period, negligibly affected sporulation and insecticidal crystal protein (ICP) production. While, the deletion mutant strains of the gabD and sucA genes showed that the growth, sporulation and crystal protein formation were inhibited, cells became slender, and insecticidal activity was significantly reduced. iTRAQ proteomics and qRT‐PCR used to analyse the differentially expressed protein (DEP) between the two mutant strains and the wild type strain. The functions of DEPs were visualized and statistically classified, which affect bacterial growth and metabolism by regulating biological metabolism pathways: the major carbon metabolism pathways, amino acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation pathways, nucleic acid metabolism, fatty acid synthesis and peptidoglycan synthesis. The gabD and sucA genes in lysine metabolic pathway are closely related to the sporulation and crystal proteins formation. The effects of DEPs and functional genes on basic cellular metabolic pathways were studied to provide new strategies for the construction of highly virulent insecticidal strains, the targeted transformation of functional genes.
Integrating the online OurRelationship program into a stepped‐care model of couple therapy
Authors: Le Yunying , Rothman Karen , Christensen Andrew , Doss Brian D.
Published: December 2020

Due to various barriers, most relationally distressed couples do not seek couple therapy. With the COVID‐19 pandemic, many of these barriers are further exacerbated, while the need for relationship services has increased. To increase the reach of couple therapy both during and after the pandemic, we propose a stepped‐care model that utilises technology as a precursor to couple therapy and acts as an integral component of it. In this paper, we first introduce the OurRelationship program – an evidence‐based online relationship program that improves both relationship and individual functioning in several large‐scale, nationwide trials. We then describe how therapists can incorporate this program into an abbreviated, eight‐session course of couple therapy. We expect this integration will be useful to couple therapists from a variety of theoretical orientations and will address numerous common barriers to treatment including cost, scheduling difficulties and geographic distance from the therapist.

Practitioner points

Couple therapists can leverage technology to increase their reach both during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic.

The online OurRelationship program improves relationship and individual functioning in several nationwide clinical trials.

The OurRelationship program can be integrated into an eight‐session course of couple therapy to serve couples who would otherwise be unable or unwilling to attend therapy.
Using Robson's Ten‐Group Classification System for comparing caesarean section rates in Europe: an analysis of routine data from the Euro‐Peristat study
Authors: Zeitlin J , Durox M , Macfarlane A , Alexander S , Heller G , Loghi M , Nijhuis J , Sól Ólafsdóttir H , Mierzejewska E , Gissler M , Blondel B ,   the Euro‐Peristat Network
Published: December 2020

Objective

Robson's Ten Group Classification System (TGCS) creates clinically relevant sub‐groups for monitoring caesarean birth rates. This study assesses whether this classification can be derived from routine data in Europe and uses it to analyse national caesarean rates.

Design

Observational study using routine data.

Setting

Twenty‐seven EU member states plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and the UK.

Population

All births at ≥22 weeks of gestational age in 2015.

Methods

National statistical offices and medical birth registers derived numbers of caesarean births in TGCS groups.

Main outcome measures

Overall caesarean rate, prevalence and caesarean rates in each of the TGCS groups.

Results

Of 31 countries, 18 were able to provide data on the TGCS groups, with UK data available only from Northern Ireland. Caesarean birth rates ranged from 16.1 to 56.9%. Countries providing TGCS data had lower caesarean rates than countries without data (25.8% versus 32.9%, P = 0.04). Countries with higher caesarean rates tended to have higher rates in all TGCS groups. Substantial heterogeneity was observed, however, especially for groups 5 (previous caesarean section), 6, 7 (nulliparous/multiparous breech) and 10 (singleton cephalic preterm). The differences in percentages of abnormal lies, group 9, illustrate potential misclassification arising from unstandardised definitions.

Conclusions

Although further validation of data quality is needed, using TGCS in Europe provides valuable comparator and baseline data for benchmarking and surveillance. Higher caesarean rates in countries unable to construct the TGCS suggest that effective routine information systems may be an indicator of a country's investment in implementing evidence‐based caesarean policies.

Tweetable abstract

Many European countries can provide Robson's Ten‐Group Classification to improve caesarean rate comparisons.
The Direction and Intensity of China’s Monetary Policy: A Dynamic Factor Modelling Approach*
Authors: Funke Michael , Tsang Andrew
Published: December 2020

The recent update of the People’s Bank of China’s monetary policy framework establishes a corridor system of interest rates. We employ a dynamic factor modelling approach to derive an indicator of China’s monetary policy stance. The approach is based on the notion that co‐movements in several monetary policy instruments have a common element that can be captured by a single underlying, unobserved component. To clarify and interpret the derived index, we employ a baseline dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model that can be solved analytically and allows tracing of the expansionary and contractionary on‐and‐off phases of Chinese monetary policy.
Cholinergic receptor–independent modulation of intrinsic resonance in the rat subiculum neurons through inhibition of hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels
Authors: Vasnik Sonali , Sikdar Sujit K.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Acetylcholine release is vital in the pacing of theta rhythms in the hippocampus. The subiculum is the output region of the hippocampus with different neuronal subtypes that generate theta oscillations during arousal and rapid eye movement sleep. The combination of intrinsic resonance in the hippocampal neurons and the periodic excitation of hippocampal excitatory and inhibitory neurons by cholinergic pathway drives theta oscillations. However, the acetylcholine mediated effect on intrinsic subthreshold resonance generating hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated current, Ih of subicular neurons is unexplored. We studied the acetylcholine receptor‐independent effect of cholinergic agents on the intrinsic properties of subiculum principal neurons and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

We bath perfused acetylcholine or nicotine on rat brain slices in the presence of synaptic blockers. The physiological effect was studied by cholinergic fibres stimulation and electrophysiological recordings under whole‐cell mode of subiculum neurons using septohippocampal sections.

Results

Exogenously applied acetylcholine in the presence of atropine affected two groups of subicular neurons differently. Acetylcholine reduced the resonance frequency and Ih in bursting neurons, whereas these properties were unaffected in regular firing neurons. Subsequently, the endogenously released acetylcholine by stimulation showed a selective suppressive effect on Ih, sag, and resonance in burst firing among the two excitatory neurons. Nicotine suppressed the Ih amplitude in burst firing neurons, which was evident by decreased sag amplitude and resonance frequency and increased excitability.

Conclusion

Our study suggests cell type‐specific acetylcholine receptor‐independent shift in resonance frequency by partially inhibiting HCN current during high cholinergic inputs.
Gender differences in socio‐demographics, clinical characteristic and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia: A community‐based study in Shenzhen
Authors: Peng Xiaodong , Wang Shibin , Bi Jianqiang , You Liqin , Zhou Zhijian , Tan Wenyan , Xie Haiyan , Hu Chiyi , Ng Chee H. , Liu Tiebang
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The objective of this study was to explore the gender differences of community‐dwelling patients with schizophrenia in terms of socio‐demographics, clinical characteristic and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

A total of 433 community‐dwelling patients with schizophrenia were recruited in Shenzhen city, China. Data were obtained from a face‐to‐face interview with standard research questionnaire. The QOL and insight were assessed using the WHOQOL‐BREF and the Chinese version of the insight and treatment attitude questionnaire, respectively.

Results

This cross‐sectional study included 206 male and 227 female patients. Male patients were more likely to be educated, employed, smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol, and have an early age of illness onset. In contrast, female patients were more likely to be married/cohabitating and have drug side effects. There was no significant difference between genders across all QOL domain. Multiple regression analyzes showed that mental symptoms were negatively associated with all QOL domains, whereas frequency of exercise in the past year was positively associated with all QOL domains. Higher education levels, household per capita annual income in past year (≥100 000 RMB), employment status, IATQ score, drug side effects, marital status, and number of hospitalization were also significantly associated with specific QOL domains.

Discussion

There was significant gender difference in socio‐demographics and clinical characteristics among community schizophrenia patients in Shenzhen city. Gender‐specific intervention measures are needed to improve the functioning and QOL in patients with schizophrenia.
A conscious choice: Is it ethical to aim for unconsciousness at the end of life?
Authors: Takla Antony , Savulescu Julian , Wilkinson Dominic J. C.
Published: December 2020

One of the most commonly referenced ethical principles when it comes to the management of dying patients is the doctrine of double effect (DDE). The DDE affirms that it is acceptable to cause side effects (e.g. respiratory depression) as a consequence of symptom‐focused treatment. Much discussion of the ethics of end of life care focuses on the question of whether actions (or omissions) would hasten (or cause) death, and whether that is permissible. However, there is a separate question about the permissibility of hastening or causing unconsciousness in dying patients. Some authors have argued that the DDE would not permit end of life care that directly aims to render the patient unconscious. The claim is that consciousness is an objective human good and therefore doctors should not intentionally (and permanently) suppress it. Three types of end of life care (EOLC) practices will be explored in this article. The first is symptom‐based management (e.g. analgesia); the second is proportional terminal sedation as a means of relieving suffering (also referred to as palliative sedation or continuous deep sedation); and finally, deliberate and rapid sedation to unconsciousness until death (a practice we call terminal anaesthesia in this paper). After examining the common arguments for the various types of symptom‐based management and sedation, we apply the DDE to the latter two types of EOLC practices. We argue that aiming at unconsciousness, contrary to some claims, can be morally good or at least morally neutral in some dying patients.
Are some students graded more appropriately than others? Student characteristics as moderators of the relationships between teacher‐assigned grades and test scores in mathematics
Authors: Westphal Andrea , Lazarides Rebecca , Vock Miriam
Published: December 2020

Background

Building on the Realistic Accuracy Model, this paper explores whether it is easier for teachers to assess the achievement of some students than others. Accordingly, we suggest that certain individual characteristics of students, such as extraversion, academic self‐efficacy, and conscientiousness, may guide teachers’ evaluations of student achievement, resulting in more appropriate judgements and a stronger alignment of assigned grades with students’ actual achievement level (as measured using standardized tests).

Aims

We examine whether extraversion, academic self‐efficacy, and conscientiousness moderate the relations between teacher‐assigned grades and students’ standardized test scores in mathematics.

Sample

This study uses a representative sample of N = 5,919 seventh‐grade students in Germany (48.8% girls; mean age: M = 12.5, SD = 0.62) who participated in a national, large‐scale assessment focusing on students’ academic development.

Methods

We specified structural equation models to examine the inter‐relations of teacher‐assigned grades with students’ standardized test scores in mathematics, Big Five personality traits, and academic self‐efficacy, while controlling for students’ socioeconomic status, gender, and age.

Results

The correlation between teacher‐assigned grades and standardized test scores in mathematics was r = .40. Teacher‐assigned grades more closely related to standardized test scores when students reported higher levels of conscientiousness (β = .05, p = .002). Students’ extraversion and academic self‐efficacy did not moderate the relationship between teacher‐assigned grades and standardized test scores.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that students’ conscientiousness is a personality trait that seems to be important when it comes to how closely mathematics teachers align their grades to standardized test scores.
A cross‐sectional, case‐control study of intracranial arterial wall thickness and complete blood count measures in sickle cell disease
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Jordan Lori C. , Davis Larry T. , Cogswell Petrice M. , Lee Chelsea A. , Patel Niral J. , Waddle Spencer L. , Juttukonda Meher , Sky Jones R. , Griffin Allison , Donahue Manus J.
Published: December 2020

In sickle cell disease (SCD), cerebral oxygen delivery is dependent on the cerebral vasculature's ability to increase blood flow and volume through relaxation of the smooth muscle that lines intracranial arteries. We hypothesised that anaemia extent and/or circulating markers of inflammation lead to concentric macrovascular arterial wall thickening, visible on intracranial vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (VW‐MRI). Adult and pediatric SCD (n = 69; age = 19.9 ± 8.6 years) participants and age‐ and sex‐matched control participants (n = 38; age = 22.2 ± 8.9 years) underwent 3‐Tesla VW‐MRI; two raters measured basilar and bilateral supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) wall thickness independently. Mean wall thickness was compared with demographic, cerebrovascular and haematological variables. Mean vessel wall thickness was elevated (P < 0·001) in SCD (1·07 ± 0·19 mm) compared to controls (0·97 ± 0·07 mm) after controlling for age and sex. Vessel wall thickness was higher in participants on chronic transfusions (P = 0·013). No significant relationship between vessel wall thickness and flow velocity, haematocrit, white blood cell count or platelet count was observed; however, trends (P < 0·10) for wall thickness increasing with decreasing haematocrit and increasing white blood cell count were noted. Findings are discussed in the context of how anaemia and circulating inflammatory markers may impact arterial wall morphology.
Heterogeneity of cellular inflammatory responses in ageing white matter and relationship to Alzheimer’s and small vessel disease pathologies
Authors: Waller Rachel , Narramore Ruth , Simpson Julie E. , Heath Paul R. , Verma Nikita , Tinsley Megan , Barnes Jordan R. , Haris Hanna T. , Henderson Frances E. , Matthews Fiona E. , Richardson Connor D. , Brayne Carol , Ince Paul G. , Kalaria Raj N. , Wharton Stephen B. ,   CFAS
Published: December 2020

White matter lesions (WML) are common in the ageing brain, often arising in a field effect of diffuse white matter abnormality. Although WML are associated with cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), their cause and pathogenesis remain unclear. The current study tested the hypothesis that different patterns of neuroinflammation are associated with SVD compared to AD neuropathology by assessing the immunoreactive profile of the microglial (CD68, IBA1 and MHC‐II) and astrocyte (GFAP) markers in ageing parietal white matter (PARWM) obtained from the Cognitive Function and Ageing Study (CFAS), an ageing population‐representative neuropathology cohort. Glial responses varied extensively across the PARWM with microglial markers significantly higher in the subventricular region compared to either the middle‐zone (CD68 p = 0.028, IBA1 p < 0.001, MHC‐II p < 0.001) or subcortical region (CD68 p = 0.002, IBA1 p < 0.001, MHC‐II p < 0.001). Clasmatodendritic (CD) GFAP+ astrocytes significantly increased from the subcortical to the subventricular region (p < 0.001), whilst GFAP+ stellate astrocytes significantly decreased (p < 0.001). Cellular reactions could be grouped into two distinct patterns: an immune response associated with MHC‐II/IBA1 expression and CD astrocytes; and a more innate response characterised by CD68 expression associated with WML. White matter neuroinflammation showed weak relationships to the measures of SVD, but not to the measures of AD neuropathology. In conclusion, glial responses vary extensively across the PARWM with diverse patterns of white matter neuroinflammation. Although these findings support a role for vascular factors in the pathogenesis of age‐related white matter neuroinflammation, additional factors other than SVD and AD pathology may drive this. Understanding the heterogeneity in white matter neuroinflammation will be important for the therapeutic targeting of age‐associated white matter damage.
Bats and hawkmoths form mixed modules with flowering plants in a nocturnal interaction network
Authors: Queiroz Joel A. , Diniz Ugo M. , Vázquez Diego P. , Quirino Zelma M. , Santos Francisco A. R. , Mello Marco A. R. , Machado Isabel C.
Published: December 2020

Based on the conceptual framework of pollination syndromes, pollination networks should be composed of well‐delimited subgroups formed by plants that diverge in floral phenotypes and are visited by taxonomically different pollinators. Nevertheless, floral traits are not always accurate in predicting floral visitors. For instance, flowers adapted to bat‐pollination are larger and wider, enabling the exploitation by other nocturnal animals, such as hawkmoths. Thus, should an interaction network comprising bats and hawkmoths, the most important nocturnal pollinators in the tropics, be formed of mixed‐taxon modules due to cross‐syndrome interactions? Here, we analyzed such a network to test whether resource plants are shared between the two taxa, and how modules differ in terms of species morphologies. We sampled interactions through pollen grains collected from floral visitors in a Caatinga dry forest in northeastern Brazil. The network was modular yet interwoven by cross‐syndrome interactions. Hawkmoths showed no restriction to visit the wider chiropterophilous flowers. Furthermore, bats represented a subset of a hawkmoth‐dominated network, as they were restricted to chiropterophilous flowers due to constraints in accessing narrower sphingophilous flowers. As such, the bat‐dominated module encompassed relatively wider flowers, but hawkmoths, especially long‐tongued ones, were unrestricted by floral width or length. Thus, pollination of flowers with open architectures must be investigated with caution, as they are accessible to a wide array of floral visitors, which may result in mixed‐pollination systems. Future research should continue to integrate different syndromes and pollinator groups in order to reach a better understanding of how pollination‐related functions emerge from community‐level interactions.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Validity and reliability of the Turkish versions of Assessment of Children's Hand Skills and Children's Hand‐Skills Ability Questionnaire in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy
Authors: Gün Fatma , Temizkan Ege , Bumin Gonca
Published: December 2020

Background

Assessment of Children's Hand Skills (ACHS) and Children's Hand‐Skills Ability Questionnaire (CHSQ) are interconnected hand skills assessment tools that together contain parent questionnaire and observational assessment. With this quality, ACHS and CHSQ enable the therapist to obtain information about the child's real‐life performances as well as to conduct a clinical observational assessment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the Turkish versions of ACHS and CHSQ in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (HCP).

Methods

A total of 112 children with HCP between 2 and 12 years of age were included. All participants were subjected to ACHS, CHSQ, Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation (SHUEE) and ABILHAND‐Kids. Convergent construct validity was investigated through analysing the relationship between ACHS and SHUEE and between CHSQ and ABILHAND‐Kids. Discriminative construct validity was investigated through analysing the differences between genders for CHSQ and ACHS. For reliability, test–retest interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and internal consistency Cronbach's alpha were calculated and analysed.

Results

ACHS showed very strong relationships with SHUEE's spontaneous functional analysis (r = 0.86) and grip–release function (r = 0.86) parameters with a strong relationship with positional dynamic analysis (r = 0.78). CHSQ's leisure (r = 0.80), school/education (r = 0.75) and activities of daily living (r = 0.76) domains showed strong relationships with the ABILHAND‐Kids. There was no difference between genders for ACHS and all domains of CHSQ (p > 0.05). All domains and total score of ACHS and CHSQ had perfect test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.90). ACHS had perfect internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.98); CHSQ had very high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.84).

Conclusions

The Turkish versions of ACHS (ACHS‐TR) and CHSQ (CHSQ‐TR) are valid and reliable hand skills assessment tools in children with HCP.
Individual‐level data reveal high prevalence of positive size‐trophic position relationships for vertebrates in temperate streams
Authors: McGarvey Daniel J.
Published: December 2020

A positive relationship between body size and trophic position is often assumed in ecology, but efforts to confirm the generality of this relationship for freshwater vertebrates have produced mixed results. Some authors have tested for among‐species relationships, using species‐level estimates of average size and trophic position. Others have used individual‐level body size and trophic position data to test for within‐species relationships. However, no study has yet estimated prevalence, defined here as the fraction of total standing stock biomass within a given ecosystem that consists of taxa exhibiting positive size versus trophic position relationships.

Individual‐level estimates of body size and relative trophic position (inferred from bulk‐tissue nitrogen stable isotopes) were collected for vertebrates in six temperate streams. In each stream, all locally occurring vertebrate taxa were collected and closed population depletion samples were used to obtain standing stock biomass estimates.

Ordinary least squares regression was used with the individual‐level data to test for positive relationships between body size and relative trophic position (r‐STPRs). A separate r‐STPR model was tested for each vertebrate species collected at the six study sites. Linear mixed‐effects modelling was then used to test for differing r‐STPRs among species.

Prevalence of the r‐STPR was calculated for each site by summing the standing stock biomass of all taxa that exhibited a statistically significant, positive STPR at a given site, then dividing this number by the total standing stock biomass of vertebrates at the site.

Significant, positive r‐STPRs were detected in 15 of 22 species × site regression models. Prevalence of species with positive r‐STPRs ranged from 91 to 100% of the total vertebrate biomass in western streams and from 45 to 66% in eastern streams.

Results confirm that positive r‐STPRs are characteristic of many of the vertebrate taxa considered in this study. Furthermore, species that exhibit positive r‐STPRs comprise a clear majority of the standing stock biomass in five of six study streams. By using individual‐level data to account for prevalence, a more complete understanding of size‐dependent trophic dynamics should be possible in freshwater ecosystems.
Genetic association of BIN1 and GAB2 in Alzheimer's disease: A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Hao Xiaoyan , Wang Aijun , Li Chong , Shao Lufei , Li Yi , Yang Ping
Published: December 2020

Aim

Heredity plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) especially for single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) of susceptible genes, which is one of the significant factors in the pathogenesis of AD. The SNPs of BIN1 rs744373, BIN1 rs7561528 and GAB2 rs2373115 are associated with AD in Asian and white people.

Methods

We included 34 studies with a total of 38 291 patients with AD and 55 538 controls of diverse races from four main databases. We used meta‐analysis to obtain I2‐values and odds ratios of five genetic models in three SNPs. We carried out analysis of sensitivity, subgroup, publication bias and linkage disequilibrium test.

Results

The forest plots showed the odds ratio value of the three SNPs was >1 in white individuals, but not Asian individuals, in their genetic model. The funnel plot was symmetrical, and the D'‐value was 0.986 between rs744373 and rs7561528.

Conclusions

BIN1 rs744373, BIN1 rs7561528 and GAB2 rs2373115 are pathogenicity sites for AD in white people, and also rs7561528 belongs to a risk site in Asian people. The rs7561528 and rs744373 SNPs have strong linkage disequilibrium in Chinese people. In addition, apolipoprotein E ε4 status promotes them to result in the pathogenesis of AD. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 185–191.
Tariff pass‐through in the middle products model
Authors: Bond Eric W.
Published: December 2020

I use the middle products model of Sanyal and Jones to study the pass‐through of a tariff on the price of non‐traded final goods. I extend their analysis by comparing the short‐run effect of the tariff, when all factors are immobile, with the effects when labor is mobile between all sectors. It is shown that the short‐run pass‐through may vary from zero to a magnified effect on the price of the final product, depending on the elasticities of substitution in consumption and production. The relative magnitude of these elasticities determines whether the pass‐through with labor mobility is greater or less than the short‐run pass‐through.
Introduction Les perspectives transnationales du droit international du travail
Authors: BLACKETT Adelle
Published: December 2020

Dans cette introduction, l'auteure replace le thème du numéro spécial dans le contexte du 100e anniversaire de l'OIT et de la difficulté à réaliser les principes du travail décent, qui reste entière aujourd'hui, alors que des forces transnationales diverses font sentir leur influence. Pour sortir de l'impasse et réformer le cadre de régulation transnational, il faut, pour l'auteure, redonner une place centrale au droit international du travail, qui fournit le fondement normatif du droit transnational du travail. En outre, il faut associer à l'entreprise une large gamme d'acteurs, tout en mobilisant l'OIT, en tant qu'organe normatif et force de coordination.
Loss of hnRNPLL‐dependent splicing of Ptprc has no impact on B‐cell development, activation and terminal differentiation into antibody‐secreting cells
Authors: Yabas Mehmet , Yazicioglu Yavuz F , Hoyne Gerard F , Goodnow Christopher C , Enders Anselm
Published: December 2020

The RNA‐binding protein heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L‐like (hnRNPLL) controls alternative splicing of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C (Ptprc) which encodes CD45. hnRNPLL deficiency leads to a failure in silencing Ptprc exons 4–6 causing aberrant expression of the corresponding CD45 isoforms, namely, CD45RA, RB and RC. While an N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea‐induced point mutation in murine Hnrnpll results in loss of peripheral naïve T cells, its role in B‐cell biology remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that B‐cell development in the bone marrow of Hnrnpllthu/thu mice is normal and the number of mature B‐cell subsets in the spleen and peritoneal cavity is comparable to control littermates. In response to in vivo immunization, Hnrnpllthu/thu mice were deficient in generating germinal center (GC) B cells, and analysis of mixed bone marrow chimeras revealed that the GC B‐cell deficiency was a B‐cell extrinsic effect of the hnRNPLL mutation. Mature Hnrnpllthu/thu B cells proliferated normally in response to various B‐cell receptor‐ and Toll‐like receptor‐mediated stimuli. Similarly, in vitro stimulation of mutant B cells led to normal generation of plasmablasts, but mutant plasmablasts failed to downregulate B220 expression because of the inability of cells to undergo proper CD45 pre‐messenger RNA alternative splicing. These findings collectively suggest that, like in T and natural killer T cells, the mutation disrupts hnRNPLL‐mediated alternative splicing of the Ptprc gene in plasmablasts, but this dysregulation of Ptprc alternative splicing does not affect the development and function of B cells.
Linc00475 promotes the progression of glioma by regulating the miR‐141‐3p/YAP1 axis
Authors: Yu Mingjun , Yi Bolong , Zhou Wen , Gong Wei , Li Gang , Yu Shijia
Published: December 2020

Glioma is the most prevalent and lethal primary brain tumour. Abundant long non‐coding RNAs ( lncRNAs) are aberrant and play crucial roles in the oncogenesis of glioma. The exact functions of linc00475 in glioma remain blurred. Here, we analysed the expression levels of linc00475 by qRT‐PCR and discovered that linc00475 was up‐regulated in glioma and predicted a poor prognosis in patients with glioma. Besides, inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma in vitro and in vivo. Further experiments confirmed that linc00475 regulated the progression of glioma by acting as a sponge for miR‐141‐3p. Moreover, we detected the binding sites of linc00475 and miR‐141‐3p, the YAP1‐ 3′UTR and miR‐141‐3p by luciferase reporters. The rescue assays confirmed that inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma through the miR‐141‐3p/YAP1 pathway. Collectively, our research demonstrates the key roles of linc00475 in glioma, which could be a promising therapeutic target.
Usefulness of the ‘cosmos pattern’ for differentiating between cervical gastric‐type mucin‐positive lesions and other benign cervical cystic lesions in magnetic resonance images
Authors: Ohya Ayumi , Kobara Hisanori , Miyamoto Tsutomu , Komatsu Mai , Shiozawa Tanri , Fujinaga Yasunari
Published: December 2020

Aim

To evaluate the usefulness of the ‘cosmos pattern’ (CP) on magnetic resonance (MR) images for differentiating between gastric‐type mucin‐positive lesions (GMPL) and gastric‐type mucin‐negative lesions (GMNL).

Methods

This study included 131 patients with clinical suspicion of lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH) who underwent pelvic MR imaging and a Pap smear and/or latex agglutination assay. Differences in MR findings, such as cyst and solid component patterns, cervical location and T1‐weighted image (T1WI) signal intensity, were compared between GMPL and GMNL. The diagnostic performances of the findings were assessed.

Results

The frequencies of CP (63.1%), upper part (UP) lesions (72.3%) and hypointense area compared with the cervical stroma on T1WI (61.3%) were significantly greater in GMPL than in GMNL (P < 0.05). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and odds ratio of the CP for diagnosis of GMPL were 63.1%, 87.9%, 83.7%, 70.7% and 12.4, respectively. In GMNL, a ‘macrocystic pattern’ was observed in 65.2% of patients; an isointense or hyperintense area on T1WI was observed in 86.4% of patients. The sensitivity was highest (90.8%) when one or more of the following were observed: CP, UP lesion, or hypointense area on T1WI. The specificity was highest (95.5%) when the CP was observed as a hypointense area on T1WI.

Conclusion

The CP is a highly specific finding for diagnosis of GMPL. If the CP is observed as a hypointense area compared with the cervical stroma on T1WI, GMPL (i.e., LEGH or gastric‐type mucinous carcinoma) should be strongly suspected.
National survey of primary amenorrhea and relevant conditions in Japan
Authors: Haraguchi Hirofumi , Harada Miyuki , Kashimada Kenichi , Horikawa Reiko , Sakakibara Hideya , Shozu Makio , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka , Kugu Koji
Published: December 2020

Aim

In Japan, most of the patients with primary amenorrhea or related conditions, such as delayed menarche, are diagnosed by pediatricians or gynecologists; accordingly, the number of the patients and the ratio of the causes were unclear. To clarify them, we conducted a nationwide survey in both the departments for the first time.

Methods

We sent a questionnaire about the patients with chief complaint of no menarche whose first visit was from January 2015 to December 2017, to 596 training institutions for specialist physicians of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and 152 facilities to which councilors of the Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology belong.

Results

We received replies from 283 (37.8%) institutions. During the 3 years, 1043 patients first visited pediatrics or gynecology for no menarche. In 303 patients under 16 years old at the first visit, 177 (58.4%) patients had menarche by the age of 16. Of them, 41 (13.5%) patients had menarche spontaneously. Among 308 patients aged 16 to 17 at the first visit, 216 patients were 18 years or older at the survey. Of them, 124 (57.4%) patients had menarche by the age of 18, and 21 (9.7%) of them had menarche spontaneously. The causes of amenorrhea were detected in 462 patients. Abnormal karyotype including Turner syndrome was the most common at 122 (26.4%), followed by Mullerian agenesis at 73 (15.8%).

Conclusions

The first national survey revealed the number and causes of primary amenorrhea and related conditions. This report will provide better information for clinicians.