bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plummer–Vinson syndrome: A decade's experience of 132 cases from a single center
Authors: Patil Mallikarjun , Malipatel Renuka , Devarbhavi Harshad
Published: June 2020

Background and Aim

Plummer–Vinson syndrome (PVS) comprises triad of iron deficiency anemia, dysphagia, and post‐cricoid esophageal web. PVS is rare nowadays due to improved nutritional status. However, we encountered patients with PVS regularly at our center. Data regarding PVS are limited; hence, we aimed to study the clinical features, treatment outcomes, and development of complications in patients with PVS.

Methods

The study was conducted over a 10‐year period (January 2008 to January 2018) in a medical college setting. All adults with dysphagia, anemia, and post‐cricoid web or those with iron deficiency anemia and post‐cricoids web were included in the study. Patients were treated with iron supplementation and Savary–Gilliard bougie dilation of the web. Patients were followed‐up for the recurrence of dysphagia and development of complications.

Results

Overall, 153 patients exhibited esophageal web, of which 132 (86.27%) patients had concomitant PVS and 21 (13.7%) patients did not. The mean age was 43.50 years (range 16–76) and 113 (85.6%) were women. Single session of Savary–Gilliard bougie dilation was successful in 90.7% of patients in relieving dysphagia and 9.3% developed recurrence, requiring repeated dilations. Four patients had concomitant squamous cell carcinoma of esophagus along with PVS and two developed upper gastrointestinal malignancy during follow‐up.

Conclusion

Plummer–Vinson syndrome is predominantly seen in middle aged women and present with symptoms of iron deficiency anemia and early grade dysphagia. Single session of Savary–Gilliard bougie dilation was successful in majority of patients in relieving dysphagia. Overall risk of developing upper gastrointestinal malignancy was 4.5%.
In vitro degradability of corn silage and Leymus chinensis silage and evaluation of their mixed ratios on performance, digestion and serum parameters in beef cattle
Authors: Zhang Xianglun , Wang Hongliang , You Wei , Zhao Hongbo , Wei Chen , Jin Qing , Liu Xiaomu , Liu Guifen , Tan Xiuwen , Wang Xingling , Wan Fachun , Sun Xiaoyu
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the degradability of corn silage (CS) and Leymus chinensis silage (LS) in vitro, and evaluated the effect of various ratios on growth performance, digestion and serum parameters in beef cattle. A 72‐hr bath culture trial was performed to evaluate degradability and rumen fermentation characteristics of CS, LS and their combinations [67:33, 33:67, dry matter (DM) basis]. Forty Simmental steers, averaging 441.46 ± 4.45 kg of body weight (BW), were randomly allocated into four dietary treatments for 120‐d period. Diets were given as total mixed rations with a forage‐to‐concentrate ratio of 60:40 and CS:LS ratios of 100:0, 67:33, 33:67 and 0:100 (DM basis). The in vitro trial showed that DM and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) degradability decreased linearly as LS proportion increased, whereas CP degradability increased linearly. Additionally, increased acid detergent fibre (ADF) degradability was detected at 48 hr of incubation. Increasing the proportion of LS increased rumen liquor pH and decreased volatile fatty acid linearly including acetate, propionate and butyrate, whereas the ammonia‐N increased linearly at 12 and 72 hr of incubation. With increasing LS ratio, final BW, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio of steers decreased linearly, whereas DMI was not affected. Additionally, apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter, NDF and ADF linearly and quadratically decreased while ether extract apparent digestibility decreased linearly, and CP apparent digestibility was not affected. Serum glucose and urea nitrogen linearly and quadratically decreased while glutamic‐pyruvic transaminase activity linearly decreased as the proportion of LS increased. Other serum parameters including total triglycerides, total cholesterol, total protein, albumin and glutamic‐oxalacetic transaminease were not affected. Overall, enhancing ratio of LS caused inferior DM and NDF degradability but improved CP degradability in the combinations of LS and CS. A CS:LS ratio of 67:33 resulted in the best growth performance and nutrient utilization in steers.
Subjective and polysomnographic evaluation of sleep in mitochondrial optic neuropathies
Authors: Příhodová Iva , Nepožitek Jiří , Kelifová Silvie , Dostálová Simona , Kemlink David , Šonka Karel , Tesařová Markéta , Honzík Tomáš , Kolářová Hana
Published: June 2020

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and Dominant optic atrophy are associated with a selective loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGC). A subtype of RGC is responsible for light‐dependent physiological processes. The aim of our study was to evaluate both subjective and objective sleep parameters in 36 (18 males; mean age 33.8 ± 16.7) symptomatic/asymptomatic subjects with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and dominant optic atrophy. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and nocturnal polysomnography were used to assess sleep disturbances and sleep quality. The questionnaires indicated significantly worse sleep quality (PSQI > 5; average 7.7 ± 3.8) in 21 (70%) and excessive daytime sleepiness (ESS > 10; average 6.3 ± 5.8) in six (20%) individuals. Nocturnal polysomnography has not revealed any significant changes of sleep structure. Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep without atonia was observed in two patients with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. Obstructive sleep apnea was noted in eight cases. No correlation between subjective and polysomnographic data and no differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic groups were observed. None of the subjects fulfilled criteria for a circadian sleep disorder. In both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, a subjective decrease of the quality of sleep and wakefulness was noted without any correlation on polysomnography.
Pharmacokinetics of magnesium and its effects on clinical variables following experimentally induced hypermagnesemia
Authors: Schumacher Stephen A. , Toribio Ramiro E. , Scansen Brian , Lakritz Jeffrey , Bertone Alicia L.
Published: June 2020

The objectives of this study were to describe pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes as a result of a single intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) to healthy horses. MgSO4 is a magnesium salt that has been used to calm horses in equestrian competition and is difficult to regulate because magnesium is an essential constituent of all mammals. Six healthy adult female horses were administered a single intravenous dose of MgSO4 at 60 mg/kg of body weight over 5 min. Blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected, and cardiovascular parameters were monitored and echocardiograms performed at predetermined times. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was applied to plasma concentrations of ionized magnesium (Mg2+). Objective data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank‐sum test with p < .05 used as a determination for significance. Plasma concentrations of Mg2+ increased nearly fivefold, ionized calcium (Ca2+) decreased by nearly 10%, and the Ca2+ to Mg2+ ratio declined more than 3.5‐fold and remained different than baseline until 24 hr (p < .05). Significant changes were seen with urinary fractional excretion of electrolytes, cardiovascular parameters, and echocardiographic measurements. No changes were detected in CSF electrolyte concentrations. The decrease in Ca2+ result of hypermagnesemia supports the interaction between these cations. Alterations detected in plasma electrolyte concentrations and urinary fractional excretion of electrolytes may serve as biomarkers for regulatory control for the nefarious administration of MgSO4.
Diabetes‐by‐Proxy: Virtual Embodiment of Disease by Oklahoma Choctaw Parents of Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Henderson J. Neil , Carson Linda D. , Tomette Alisa , Hass Amanda , King Kama
Published: June 2020

Childhood type 1 diabetes is increasing globally and requires meticulous at‐home care due to risks for fatal outcomes if glucose levels are not continuously and correctly monitored. Type 1 diabetes research has focused on metabolism and stress measurements confirming high parental worry levels. However, research on caregivers’ management strategies has lagged. We show parents’ intense, all‐encompassing work to preempt a disastrous drop in their child's glucose as a stress‐path to the virtual embodiment of their child's condition. That is, parents acquire diabetes‐by‐proxy. Our findings derive from four and half years of ethnographic research with the same 19 families in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. These parents were exceptionally engaged as caregivers and distressed by the potentially fatal outcome of type 1 diabetes mismanagement. Diabetes‐by‐proxy names the parents’ experience and validates clinical attention to them as they cope with their crucial caregiving commitment.
Nutritional evaluation and growth of infants in a Rwandan neonatal follow‐up clinic
Authors: Bradford Jessica , Beck Kathryn , Nshimyiryo Alphonse , Wilson Kim , Mutaganzwa Christine , Havugarurema Silas , Ngamije Patient , Uwamahoro Alphonsine , Kirk Catherine M.
Published: June 2020

Children born preterm, low birth weight (LBW) or with other perinatal risk factors are at high‐risk of malnutrition. Regular growth monitoring and early intervention are essential to promote optimal feeding and growth; however, monitoring growth in preterm infants can be complex. This study evaluated growth monitoring of infants under 6 months enrolled in Paediatric Development Clinics (PDCs) in rural Rwanda. We reviewed electronic medical records (EMR) of infants enrolled in PDCs before age 2 months with their first visit between January 2015 and December 2016 and followed them until age 6 months. Nurse classification of anthropometric measures and nutritional status were extracted from the EMR. Interval growth and length‐for‐age, weight‐for‐length, and weight‐for‐age z‐scores were calculated using World Health Organization anthropometry software as a ‘gold standard’ comparison to nurse classifications. Two hundred and ninety‐four patients enrolled and had 2,033 visits during the study period. Referral reasons included prematurity/LBW (73.8%) and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (28.2%). Nurses assessed interval growth at 58.7% of visits, length‐for‐age at 66.4%, weight‐for‐length at 65.6% and weight‐for‐age at 66.4%. Nurses and gold standard assessment agreed on interval growth at 53.3% of visits and length‐for‐age at 63.7%, weight‐for‐length at 78.2% and weight‐for‐age at 66.3%. At 6 months, 46.5% were stunted, 19.9% were wasted and 44.2% were underweight. There were significant challenges to optimizing growth and growth monitoring among high‐risk infants served by PDCs, including incomplete and inaccurate assessments. Developing tools for clinician decision support in assessing growth and providing specialized nutritional counselling are essential to supporting optimal outcomes in this population.
Paternal effects in a wild‐type zebrafish implicate a role of sperm‐derived small RNAs
Authors: Ord James , Heath Paul R. , Fazeli Alireza , Watt Penelope J.
Published: June 2020

While the importance of maternal effects has long been appreciated, a growing body of evidence now points to the paternal environment having an important influence on offspring phenotype. Indeed, research on rodent models suggests that paternal stress leaves an imprint on the behaviour and physiology of offspring via nongenetic information carried in the spermatozoa; however, fish have been understudied with regard to these sperm‐mediated effects. Here, we investigated whether the zebrafish was subjected to heritable influences of paternal stress by exposing males to stressors (conspecific‐derived alarm cue, chasing and bright light) before mating and assessing the behavioural and endocrine responses of their offspring, including their behavioural response to conspecific‐derived alarm cue. We found that after males are exposed to stress, their larval offspring show weakened responses to stressors. Small RNA sequencing subsequently revealed that the levels of several small noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs, PIWI‐interacting RNAs and tRNA‐derived small RNAs, were altered in the spermatozoa of stressed fathers, suggesting that stress‐induced alterations to the spermatozoal RNA landscape may contribute to shaping offspring phenotype. The work demonstrates that paternal stress should not be overlooked as a source of phenotypic variation and that spermatozoal small RNAs may be important intergenerational messengers in fish.
Vaccination in patients with chronic kidney disease—Review of current recommendations and recent advances
Authors: Ma Becky Mingyao , Yap Desmond Yat Hin , Yip Terence Pok Siu , Hung Ivan Fan Ngai , Tang Sydney Chi Wai , Chan Tak Mao
Published: June 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), influenza, pneumococcus and herpes zoster are important infections which could result in significant morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). While seroconversion rates after vaccination are often lower in CKD patients compared with healthy adults due to impaired innate and adaptive immunity, vaccinations for HBV, influenza, pneumococcus and herpes zoster are generally effective in reducing the transmission and/or severity of these infections. Practical issues that have an impact on the efficacy of vaccination in the CKD population include the timing, dose, schedule of vaccination, the route of administration, and adjuncts applied at time of vaccination. This review discusses the vaccination regimens and the efficacy of HBV, influenza, pneumococcus and zoster vaccines in CKD patients, and highlights recent advances in enhancing vaccine seroconversion rates.
European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility recommendations for conducting gastrointestinal motility and function testing in the recovery phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tack Jan , Vanuytsel Tim , Serra Jordi , Accarino Anna , Stanghellini Vincenzo , Barbara Giovanni ,   the ESNM Consensus Group, the Leuven Consensus Group, the Italian Consensus Group, the Spanish Consensus Group on function testing in the COVID‐19 pandemic era
Published: June 2020

Background

During the peak of the COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, care for patients with gastrointestinal motility and functional disorders was largely suspended. In the recovery phases of the pandemic, non‐urgent medical care is resumed, but there is a lack of guidance for restarting and safely conducting motility and function testing. Breath tests and insertion of manometry and pH‐monitoring probes carry a risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 spread through droplet formation.

Methods

A panel of experts from the European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) evaluated emerging national and single‐center recommendations to provide the best current evidence and a pragmatic approach to ensure the safe conduct of motility and function testing for both healthcare professionals and patients.

Results

At a general level, this involves evaluation of the urgency of the procedure, evaluation of the infectious risk associated with the patient, the investigation and the healthcare professional(s) involved, provision of the test planning and test units, education and training of staff, and use of personnel protection equipment. Additional guidance is provided for specific procedures such as esophageal manometry, pH monitoring, and breath tests.

Conclusions and Inferences

The ESNM guidelines provide pragmatic and appropriate guidance for the safe conduct of motility and function testing in the COVID‐19 pandemic and early recovery phase.
Asymmetric benefits of a heterospecific breeding association vary with habitat, conspecific abundance and breeding stage
Authors: Swift Rose J. , Anteau Michael J. , Roche Erin A. , Sherfy Mark H. , Toy Dustin L. , Ring Megan M.
Published: June 2020

Heterospecific breeding associations may benefit individuals by mitigating predation risk but may also create costs if they increase competition for resources or are more easily detectable by predators. Our understanding of the interactions among hetero‐ and conspecifics is often lacking in mixed species colonies. Here, we test how the presence of hetero‐ and conspecifics influence nest and chick survival for two listed (under the U.S. Endangered Species Act) migratory species breeding on the Missouri River, USA. We monitored 2507 piping ploverCharadrius melodusnests and 3245 chicks as well as 1060 least ternSternula antillarumnests and 1374 chicks on Lake Sakakawea, the Garrison River Reach and the Gavins Point Reach for varying years between 2007 and 2016. Piping plover nest and chick survival improved with the presence and abundance of least terns, but least terns only benefited from piping plover presence for certain study areas and breeding stages. Piping plover nest survival was also improved by the presence and abundance of conspecifics on the Garrison River Reach and was negatively influenced by conspecific presence on Lake Sakakawea. Least tern chick survival improved with the presence of other least terns only on the Gavins Point Reach. Ultimately, the heterospecific breeding association between plovers and terns is mutualistic but asymmetric and is moderated by habitat, abundance of conspecifics and breeding stage. Our results highlight that spatiotemporal variation in the interactions among individuals breeding in groups precludes simple generalizations and suggests that management focused on one species may restrict benefits to that focal species if nest site requirements for heterospecifics are not also included.
Effect of Capsular Closure on Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopy for Femoracetabular Impingement: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Liang , Zhang Yan , Gui Qi , Zhao Feng , Shen Xue‐Zhen , Zhang Xing‐Huo , Cong Xiao‐Peng , Zhang Ya‐Kui
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the effect of hip arthroscopy with or without capsular closure in femoracetabular impingement (FAI) by meta‐analysis.

Methods

Pertinent studies were identified by searching Pubmed, EMBASE databases with the last search update on 16 February 2020. Studies that reported hip arthroscopy for FAI were collected. Meta‐analysis was performed by the use of Review Manager 5.3 software. The odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MD) were used to compare dichotomous and continuous variables. Additionally, the I2 was used to assess heterogeneity among studies, and the fixed‐effects model or the random‐effects model was selected for the quantitative analysis. Outcomes were evaluated by forest plots. For statistical analysis, P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

There was no significant difference among the preoperative mHHS (MD = –2.66，95% CI [−7.25, 1.92], I2 = 80%, P = 0.25), preoperative (MD = ‐4.94, 95% CI [−11.56, 1.67], I2 = 50%, P = 0.14) and postoperative HOS‐SSS (MD = ‐1.00, 95% CI [−6.98, 4.98], I2 = 66%, P = 0.74), patient satisfaction (MD = 0.03, 95% CI [−0.25, 0.31], I2 = 19%, P = 0.84; OR = 0.94, 95% CI [0.59, 1.50], I2 = 0%, P = 0.78), complications (OR = 1.23, 95%CI [0.56, 2.67], I2 = 0%, P = 0.61), revisions (OR = 1.77, 95% CI [0.87, 3.60], I2 = 36%, P = 0.11), and surgery time (SMD = –0.38, 95% CI [−1.16, 0.40], I2 = 92%, P = 0.34) between the capsule closure group and the non‐closure group. For the comparison of postoperative mHHS (MD = –2.66, 95% CI [−7.25, 1.92], I2 = 80%, P = 0.25) and HOS‐ADL (MD = ‐4.20, 95% CI [−5.75, −2.65], I2 = 24%, P < 0.00001), the score of the non‐closure group was significantly better than that of the closure group.

Conclusions

Remain capsule unclosed after hip arthroscopy for FAI may, to some extent, has a better postoperative functional score than the non‐closure treatment.
Patient‐by‐patient basis anti‐tachycardia pacing for fast ventricular tachycardia with structural heart diseases
Authors: Chinushi Masaomi , Furushima Hiroshi , Saitoh Osamu , Noda Takashi , Nitta Takashi , Aizawa Yoshifusa , Ohe Tohru , Kurita Takashi
Published: June 2020

Background

Anti‐tachycardia pacing (ATP) delivered from an implantable device is an important tool to terminate ventricular tachycardia (VT). But its real‐world efficacy for fast VT has not been fully studied.

Methods

Using the database of Nippon‐storm study, effect of patient‐by‐patient basis ATP programming for fast VT (≥188 bpm) was assessed for the patients with structural heart diseases. Fast VTs were divided into three groups depending on heart rate (HR); Group A was 188–209 bpm, and Group‐B and Group‐C were 210‐239 bpm and ≥240 bpm, respectively.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 28 months, 202 fast VT episodes (209 ± 19 bpm) were demonstrated in the 85 patients. ATP terminated 151 of the 202 episodes (74.8%) in total. The success rate of the ATP was not different among the three groups: 73.3% in Group A, 80.6% in Group B, and 66.7% in Group C. ATP success rate of >50% and >70% was 77.6% and 64.7% of the patients, respectively. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly higher in the patients with rather than without successful ATP therapy, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that LVEF of 23% was the optimal cut‐off value. ATP was less effective in patients taking amiodarone, but etiology of the structural heart diseases, indication of the device implantation, and all Electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters were not useful predictors for successful ATP therapy.

Conclusions

ATP highly terminated fast VT with wide HR ranges in patients with structural heart diseases, and should be considered as the first‐line therapy for fast VT except for patients with very low LVEF.
ECG patterns of successful permanent left bundle branch area pacing in bradycardia patients with typical bundle branch block
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Fan Xiaohan , Li Hui , Ning Xiaohui , Liang Erpeng , Ma Wentao , Wang Hao , Liu Zhimin , Yao Yan
Published: June 2020

Aim

To assess the electrocardiogram patterns of paced QRS narrowing after successful left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) and echocardiographic measurements in patients with bradycardia and bundle branch block (BBB).

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 55 consecutive bradycardia patients with BBB and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40% who had attempted LBBAP. Successful LBBAP was defined as paced QRS morphology of a right BBB (RBBB) pattern in lead V1 and a recording of abruptly shortened and then constant stimulus to peak left ventricular activation time with high and low output. Pacing characteristics and echocardiographic measurements were evaluated perioperatively and at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

The success rate of LBBAP was 83.6% in patients with BBB, and median cumulative X‐ray dose‐area product was 100.5 µGym2 (60.0, 179.3). LBBAP was successful in 19 of 26 patients with left BBB (LBBB) (73.1%) and in 27 of 29 patients with RBBB (93.1%). The QRS duration (QRSd) was significantly shortened in patients with LBBB (QRSd 169.4 ± 22.6 to 119.6 ± 9.5 ms), and five forms of QRSd narrowing were observed in patients with RBBB with the mean QRSd shortened from 143.1 ± 16.6 ms to 119.5 ± 11.7 ms. The thresholds for narrowing of QRSd were higher in RBBB than LBBB (1.74 ± 0.36 V/0.4 ms vs 0.79 ± 0.17 V/0.4 ms, P < .001). During the 6‐month follow‐up, both left and right ventricular synchronies were improved, and narrow QRSd persisted in patients with BBB.

Conclusion

In most bradycardia patients, RBBB could be completely or partially narrowed by LBBAP at different pacing models in addition to the correction of LBBB with LBBAP.
Hereditary angioedema in children and adolescents – A consensus update on therapeutic strategies for German‐speaking countries
Authors: Wahn Volker , Aberer Werner , Aygören‐Pürsün Emel , Bork Konrad , Eberl Wolfgang , Faßhauer Maria , Krüger Renate , Magerl Markus , Martinez‐Saguer Inmaculada , Späth Peter , Staubach‐Renz Petra , Weber‐Chrysochoou Christina
Published: June 2020

Background/Methods

At a consensus meeting in August 2018, pediatricians and dermatologists from German‐speaking countries discussed the therapeutic strategy for the treatment of pediatric patients with type I and II hereditary angioedema due to C1 inhibitor deficiency (HAE‐C1‐INH) for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, taking into account the current marketing approval status. HAE‐C1‐INH is a rare disease that usually presents during childhood or adolescence with intermittent episodes of potentially life‐threatening angioedema. Diagnosis as early as possible and an optimal management of the disease are important to avoid ineffective therapies and to properly treat swelling attacks. This article provides recommendations for developing appropriate treatment strategies in the management of HAE‐C1‐INH in pediatric patients in German‐speaking countries. An overview of available drugs in this age‐group is provided, together with their approval status, and study results obtained in adults and pediatric patients.

Results/Conclusion

Currently, plasma‐derived C1 inhibitor concentrates have the broadest approval status and are considered the best available option for on‐demand treatment of HAE‐C1‐INH attacks and for short‐ and long‐term prophylaxis across all pediatric age‐groups in German‐speaking countries. For on‐demand treatment of children aged 2 years and older, recombinant C1‐INH and bradykinin‐receptor antagonist icatibant are alternatives. For long‐term prophylaxis in adolescents, the parenteral kallikrein inhibitor lanadelumab has recently been approved and can be recommended due to proven efficacy and safety.
Formation binning: a new method for increased temporal resolution in regional studies, applied to the Late Cretaceous dinosaur fossil record of North America
Authors: Dean Christopher D. , Chiarenza A. Alessandro , Maidment Susannah C. R.
Published: June 2020

The advent of palaeontological occurrence databases has allowed for detailed reconstruction and analyses of species richness through deep time. While a substantial literature has evolved ensuring that taxa are fairly counted within and between different time periods, how time itself is divided has received less attention. Stage‐level or equal‐interval age bins have frequently been used for regional and global studies in vertebrate palaeontology. However, when assessing diversity at a regional scale, these resolutions can prove inappropriate with the available data. Herein, we propose a new method of binning geological time for regional studies that intrinsically incorporates the chronostratigraphic heterogeneity of different rock formations to generate unique stratigraphic bins. We use this method to investigate the diversity dynamics of dinosaurs from the Late Cretaceous of the Western Interior of North America prior to the Cretaceous–Palaeogene mass extinction. Increased resolution through formation binning pinpoints the Maastrichtian diversity decline to between 68 and 66 Ma, coinciding with the retreat of the Western Interior Seaway. Diversity curves are shown to exhibit volatile patterns using different binning methods, supporting claims that heterogeneous biases in this time‐frame affect the pre‐extinction palaeobiological record. We also show that the apparent high endemicity of dinosaurs in the Campanian is a result of non‐contemporaneous geological units within large time bins. This study helps to illustrate the utility of high‐resolution, regional studies to supplement our understanding of factors governing global diversity in deep time and ultimately how geology is inherently tied to our understanding of past changes in species richness.
Alopecia universalis after drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (Dress)
Authors: Hollingsworth Parker , Paci Karina , Evans Megan , Miedema Jayson , Morrell Dean S.
Published: June 2020

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction characterized by a morbilliform cutaneous eruption, fever, lymphadenopathy, and multiorgan involvement. Alopecia universalis is a variant of alopecia areata characterized by complete loss of hair on the entire body. Herein, we report a case of alopecia universalis that presented after DRESS.
Harmless Effects of Sterilizing 222‐nm far‐UV Radiation on Mouse Skin and Eye Tissues
Authors: Cadet Jean
Published: June 2020

In this issue, Yamano et al. provide further evidence that germicidal 222‐nm far UV light has no immediate and delayed harmful effects on the skin and ocular tissue of rats. The safety of 222‐nm krypton–chlorine excimer lamps, highlighted in the commentary article, has already received relevant applications in the treatment of surgical site infections and in the control of airborne and foodborne pathogens.
Genome‐wide identification and characterization of microRNAs responding to ABA and GA in maize embryos during seed germination
Authors: Liu J. , Guo X. , Zhai T. , Shu A. , Zhao L. , Liu Z. , Zhang S.
Published: June 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an important class of non‐coding small RNAs that regulate the expression of target genes through mRNA cleavage or translational inhibition. Previous studies have revealed their roles in regulating seed dormancy and germination in model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, rice (Oryza sativa) and maize (Zea mays). However, the miRNA response to exogenous gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) during seed germination in maize has yet to be explored.

In this study, small RNA libraries were generated and sequenced from maize embryos treated with GA, ABA or double‐distilled water as control.

A total of 247 miRNAs (104 known and 143 novel) were identified, of which 45 known and 53 novel miRNAs were differentially expressed in embryos in the different treatment groups. In total, 74 (37 up‐regulated and 37 down‐regulated) and 55 (23 up‐regulated and 32 down‐regulated) miRNAs were expressed in response to GA and to ABA, respectively, and a total of 18 known and 38 novel miRNAs displayed differential expression between the GA‐ and ABA‐treated groups. Using bioinformatics tools, we predicted the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs. Using GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis of these targets, we showed that miRNAs differentially expressed in our samples affect genes encoding proteins involved in the peroxisome, ribosome and plant hormonal signalling pathways.

Our results indicate that miRNA‐mediated gene expression influences the GA and ABA signalling pathways during seed germination.
To Bribe or Not in a Procurement Auction under Disparate Corruption Pressure
Authors: Fan Xiaoshuai , Chen Ying‐Ju , Tang Christopher S.
Published: June 2020

We examine a (large) manufacturer’s bribery decision (to bribe or not to bribe) arising from a procurement auction under “disparate corruption pressure” when another (small) manufacturer is known to offer the auctioneer (i.e., the intermediary) a bribe in exchange for the “right of first refusal.” We discover that the large manufacturer should refuse to pay bribes at all times in order to prevent from leaking its private cost information to the small manufacturer and prevent from intensifying the competition. However, even when the large manufacturer is disadvantaged for refusing to bribe, we show that it can benefit from this corrupted auction when the difference in production efficiency or the bribe is high so that the “positive force” (i.e., cost advantage) derived from the right of first refusal dominates the information disadvantage. Hence, under a specific condition, the large manufacturer has no incentive to expose the collusion between the intermediary and the corrupt manufacturer. Such a “silence tactic” provides a plausible explanation for the prevalence of corrupt auctions in practice.
Thinking systemically about ecological interventions: what do system archetypes teach us?
Authors: Hallett Lauren M. , Hobbs Richard J.
Published: June 2020

To address the need for more holistic approaches to ecological management and restoration, we examine ecosystem interventions through the lens of systems thinking and in reference to systems archetypes, as developed in relation to organizational management in the business world. Systems thinking is a holistic approach to analysis that focuses on how a system's constituent parts interrelate and how systems work over time and within the context of larger systems. Systems archetypes represent patterns of behavior that have been observed repeatedly. These archetypes help relate commonly observed responses to environmental problems with their effect on important feedback processes to better anticipate connections between actions and results. They highlight situations where perceived solutions actually result in worse or unintended consequences, and where changing goals may be either appropriate or inappropriate. The archetypes can be applied to practical examples, and can provide guidance to help make appropriate intervention decisions in similar circumstances. Their use requires stepping back from immediately obvious management decisions and taking a more systemic view of the situation. A catalog of archetypes that describe common patterns of systems behavior may inform management by helping to diagnose system dynamics earlier and identifying interactions among them.
Visualizing the Effects of Predictor Variables in Black Box Supervised Learning Models
Authors: Apley Daniel W. , Zhu Jingyu
Published: June 2020

In many supervised learning applications, understanding and visualizing the effects of the predictor variables on the predicted response is of paramount importance. A shortcoming of black box supervised learning models (e.g. complex trees, neural networks, boosted trees, random forests, nearest neighbours, local kernel-weighted methods and support vector regression) in this regard is their lack of interpretability or transparency. Partial dependence plots, which are the most popular approach for visualizing the effects of the predictors with black box supervised learning models, can produce erroneous results if the predictors are strongly correlated, because they require extrapolation of the response at predictor values that are far outside the multivariate envelope of the training data. As an alternative to partial dependence plots, we present a new visualization approach that we term accumulated local effects plots, which do not require this unreliable extrapolation with correlated predictors. Moreover, accumulated local effects plots are far less computationally expensive than partial dependence plots. We also provide an R package ALEPlot as supplementary material to implement our proposed method.
How to … synthesise qualitative data
Authors: Johnston Jennifer , Barrett Aileen , Stenfors Terese
Published: June 2020

Methods of qualitative synthesis are an important component of the research toolbox. In this article, we introduce several ways to approach qualitative data synthesis and discuss how to choose between them. We use published examples throughout to illustrate how these methods are used to address research questions.
Tear film concentrations of topically applied 0.5% oxytetracycline ointment in normal canine eyes
Authors: Sigmund Alex B. , Ward Daniel A. , Cox Sherry K. , Hendrix Diane V. H.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine the tear film levels of oxytetracycline in normal canine eyes after application of the ophthalmic ointment, Terramycin™ (0.5% oxytetracycline, polymyxin B sulfate), to guide appropriate treatment frequency.

Animals studied

Ten research beagles.

Procedures

Ten research beagles with confirmed normal eyes were administered 0.02 mL of Terramycin™ ophthalmic ointment onto the dorsal bulbar conjunctival surface of the right eye. Tear samples were collected via dye‐less Schirmer tear strips at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 hours post‐administration. The sample for each timepoint was collected on a separate day, and concentrations of oxytetracycline were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results

There was a semi‐logarithmic decline in the median tear concentration of oxytetracycline. The median (2.5th and 97.5th percentiles) tear concentrations of oxytetracycline at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 hours were 43.5 μg/mL (11.1‐302.2 μg/mL), 28.7 μg/mL (8.04‐113.7 μg/mL), 16.1 μg/mL (4.96‐37.7 μg/mL), 9.2 μg/mL (4.52‐28.1 μg/mL), and 6.11 μg/mL (4.36‐26.7 μg/mL), respectively. Mean (±SD) drug recovery via HPLC was 88% (±7.5%).

Conclusions

Ophthalmic Terramycin™ achieves a substantially higher tear level than the MIC for common bacterial corneal pathogens up to 12 hours post‐administration in normal eyes. Anti‐collagenolytic tear levels were not achieved at the timepoints evaluated or with the manufacturer‐prescribed dosing frequency. HPLC can be used to analyze tear concentrations of ophthalmic ointment formulations.
THE CRISPR APPLE ON THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS: CRISPR IN SCIENCE, ETHICS, AND RELIGION
Authors: Gouw Arvin M.
Published: June 2020

The Institute on Religion in the Age of Science (IRAS) asked Ted Peters, an eminent theologian and bioethicist who was at the forefront of the cloning and stem cell debates in the past few decades, and myself, a molecular biologist, to invite scholars from various fields to brainstorm the religious and ethical implications of the CRISPR revolution. We invited keynote speakers, whose talks will be covered here, as well as other speakers and poster presentations. The conference also hosted question and answer sessions, chaplain sessions, and discussions throughout the week at the beautiful Star Island in the summer of 2019. The purpose of this paper is to highlight and sample the discussions and presentations from that conference. I will organize them into three broad topics: CRISPR in science, ethics, and religion. For readers unfamiliar with CRISPR technology, this overview can also serve as an introduction to the field, and a stepping stone for future ideas for CRISPR discussions.
BEMBA MYSTICO‐RELATIONALITY AND THE POSSIBILITY OF ARTIFICIAL GENERAL INTELLIGENCE (AGI) PARTICIPATION INIMAGO DEI
Authors: Kaunda Chammah Judex
Published: June 2020

This article interrogates the challenge artificial general intelligence (AGI) poses to religion and human societies, in general. More specifically, it seeks to respond to “Singularity”—when machines reach a level of intelligence that would put into question the privileged position humanity enjoys asimago Dei. Employing the Bemba notion of mystico‐relationality in dialogue with the concepts of the “created co‐creator” and Christ the Key, it argues for the possibility of AI participating inimago Dei. The findings show that imaging is a fluid, participatory activity that aims at likeness, but also social harmony. It also argues that God is the only original creator, humans are created creators, and that every aspect of visible existence, including AI, is inherently divine imaging. However, strong imaging is only attainable based on the only One and True Image—Christ, whose union of the material and the divine means that all creation can image, excluding nothing, even AI.
MENTAL FREEDOM AND FREEDOM OF THE LOVING HEART: FREE WILL AND BUDDHIST MEDITATION
Authors: Meyers Karin L.
Published: June 2020

InBuddhism, Meditation and Free Will: A Theory of Mental Freedom, Rick Repetti explains how the dynamics of Buddhist meditation can result in a kind of metacognition and metavolitional control that exceeds what is required for free will and defeats the most powerful forms of free will skepticism. This article argues that although the Buddhist path requires and enhances the kind of mental and volitional control Repetti describes, the central dynamic of the path and meditation is better understood as a process of habituation. This not only involves the dis‐identification from mental and emotional content that Repetti discusses—and is commonly emphasized in modern presentations of mindfulness or insight (vipassanā) meditation—but also a transformation of the heart that is effected through the complementary psychological and somatic qualities associated with calm abiding (samatha) and concentration (samādhi) and emphasized in the Pali Nikāyas and commentaries.
Material Thermal Performance Comparison Between The Tomb Of Mohammad Ghaus Heritage Building And A Modern Style Dwelling In Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Kushwah Anand , Gaur M.K. , Pandit R.K. , Singh Pushpendra
Published: June 2020

Building envelope not only provides us the protection from outside environment but also provides the necessary thermal comfort required for anyone residing inside it. It is observed that the natural cooling arrangements provided in the ancient buildings have a great influence on the thermal comfort inside the buildings. This type of arrangement of thermal comfort is not considered while designing new structures. So, the energy consumption in modern structure is more for the same thermal comfort as in ancient structures. Inside humidity, room temperature, mean surface temperatures, air variation ratio and lighting are some factors affecting thermal comfort. The materials such as cement and steel used in modern constructions are highly durable but not energy efficient. Hence necessary balance must therefore be achieved between energy efficiency and durability of modern buildings. Against this background, the paper presents a comparison of the thermal comfort inside the Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus heritage building and a modern style dwelling estimated around 10 years old. The average inside temperature of modern and heritage building was 32.65°C and 26.96°C respectively while the average outside temperature during observation period is 29.96°C. The average inside relative humidity of modern and heritage building was 61.73% and 68.93% respectively. As the heritage building was found cooler than the modern building, the study suggests that the cooling arrangement provided in the ancient buildings is imitable and beneficial to be incorporated in modern buildings
Recreating Historical Malay Architecture with BIM Process
Authors: Mustafa Muhammad Hadi , Ali Maisarah , Has Yun Hashim Khairusy Syakirin , Mohd Suhaimi Mohamad Saifulnizam
Published: June 2020

In South-East Asia, the Malay architecture is among the popular subject of research because of its historical importance within the region, apart from many others. To some researchers, the Malay architecture is unique because of its intangible meaning and historically rich design characters. It is difficult to be reproduced, and only limited numbers of people are acknowledged as experts. With the introduction of technology such as BIM, it is hypothesized that the gap can be minimized. The idea of this paper is to outline the process of recreating cultural architectural design using a modern process such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform in specific, from data collection using Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and digitalization process in Revit software. This paper employs observation approach using data from laser scanner collected from case study and content analysis technique. While normally most of the cultural architecture is undocumented, the findings of this activity are aimed to provide guideline to develop geometrical information for heritage-enthusiast in practicing their undertakings.  It is hoped that more historical and cultural architecture can be recreated and appreciated for the use and inspiration of current construction industry
The Brand Image and Brand Associations of Langkawi and Phuket: A Brand Concept Map Analysis/ Imej dan Asosiasi Jenama Langkawi dan Phuket: Satu Analisis Peta Konsep Jenama
Authors: Mohd Yusof Mohd Hafiz , Mustafa Hasrina
Published: June 2020

In the current competitive scenario of tourism industry, brand association studies are important to identify the authentic brand image of tourism destinations. This would eventually benefit the key players in the tourism industry in planning an effective tourism marketing campaign.  The present study aims to analyze the brand image of Langkawi and Phuket and to identify the differences in brand associations in the tourists' memory who visited the two destinations. Incorporating Brand Concept Mapping approach, the study used preliminary survey and focus group interviews to achieve the objectives of the study. Findings indicated that Langkawi was identified as a 'Family-oriented” or “Multiproduct” Destination as reflected in its multifarious list of brand associations covering from history, natural beauty, shopping centre and recreational destination. Meanwhile, Phuket was associated as an ‘Entertainment-oriented Destination’ with its structural brand associations were linked towards entertainment and pleasure such as nightclubs. Thai girl show, brothels and nightlife.
Malaysian Private University Students’ Perception of Online Discussion Forums: A Qualitative Enquiry
Authors: Wai Yee Serena Leow , Cheng Ean Catherine Lee
Published: June 2020

The continuous advancement in technology has transformed physical learning platforms into digital spaces in higher education. In Malaysia, instructors and students are gradually adopting the e-learning or blended-learning approach by using online discussion forums (e.g. BlackBoard) or social networking sites (e.g. Facebook groups) to engage students’ participation in courses and encourage self-directed learning. This study presents a qualitative view of students’ perception of engaging in online discussion forums in a synchronous learning environment, and their views on the positive and negative aspects of using online discussion forums for learning. Results indicate that students perceive autonomy and sense of belongingness in the online community as main factors that influence their voluntary and active participation in the online discussion forums. Technical challenges remain as a key factor in determining students’ interests to utilize online discussion forums for learning. While future research is needed to assess the sentiments of Malaysian students in online learning, this study was intended to provide Malaysian instructors and higher education institutions a preview on the sentiments of students towards online learning to better improve the aspects of technical, pedagogical methods and policies for online learning as the nation moves towards Education 4.0.
A Novel Method of Obtaining Honing Tool Profile for Machining Gears With Profile Modifications
Authors: Batsch Michał
Published: June 2020

In this study, a mathematical model of the honing process for helical gears with external teeth was developed. The proposed novel method of obtaining the two-parameter envelope of a family of surfaces proved useful in simulated machining by means of a tool with a profile deviation. Based on performed simulations and industrial applications, it was found that this method can be useful in predicting the accuracy of machined gear and therefore can be used in the design process of honing tool for high precision aerospace gears. For the example provided, the average absolute prediction error of machined tooth profile was 0.28 µm.
A genetic mechanism for sexual dichromatism in birds
Authors: Gazda Małgorzata A. , Araújo Pedro M. , Lopes Ricardo J. , Toomey Matthew B. , Andrade Pedro , Afonso Sandra , Marques Cristiana , Nunes Luís , Pereira Paulo , Trigo Sandra , Hill Geoffrey E. , Corbo Joseph C. , Carneiro Miguel
Published: June 2020

Canaries changing colors

Many animals are sexually dimorphic, with different phenotypes in males and females. To identify the genetic basis of sexual differences in bird coloration, Gazda
et al.
investigated red coloration in mosaic canaries and related species (see the Perspective by Chen). Using a combination of genetic crosses, genomic mapping, transcriptomics, and comparative analyses, the authors show that trans-regulation of the carotenoid-processing gene
BCO2
is involved in sexual dichromatism. Although such variation in coloration among the sexes is common, particularly in birds, there are few candidate genes known to be involved. This study helps to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underlie the evolution of dichromatism and may aid in uncovering sexually selected traits.

Science
, this issue p.
1270
; see also p.
1185
Electrification of the chemical industry
Authors: Barton John L.
Published: June 2020

Performing chemical synthesis with renewable electricity can reduce carbon emissions