bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of insulin glargine/lixisenatide fixed‐ratio combination (iGlarLixi) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on basal insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs: The LixiLan JP‐L randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kaneto Hideaki , Takami Akane , Spranger Robert , Amano Atsushi , Watanabe Daisuke , Niemoeller Elisabeth
Published: February 2020

Aims

To assess efficacy and safety of fixed‐ratio (1:1) combination insulin glargine and lixisenatide (iGlarLixi) compared to insulin glargine U100 (iGlar), with metformin, in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) inadequately controlled on basal insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs).

Materials and methods

This 26‐week, randomized, open‐label study compared iGlarLixi to iGlar, both with metformin in adult Japanese patients with T2DM and hemoglobin (Hb) A1c ≥7.5% to ≤9.5%, treated with basal insulin and 1 or 2 OADs. Five hundred and twelve patients were randomized after a 12‐week run‐in, when iGlar was introduced and/or further titrated and OADs other than metformin were stopped. The primary endpoint was change in HbA1c from baseline to week 26.

Results

iGlarLixi (n = 255) demonstrated significantly greater reductions in HbA1c (−1.27%) than iGlar (n = 257, −0.53%) (LS mean difference: –0.74%, P < .0001) at week 26, confirming the superiority of iGlarLixi. Significantly, more iGlarLixi patients reached target HbA1c <7% at week 26 (51.8% vs 16.0% for iGlar). iGlarLixi patients lost weight in contrast to iGlar patients (−0.51 kg vs +0.55 kg). Documented symptomatic hypoglycemia (plasma glucose ≤ 3.9 mmol/L) was observed in 18.8% of iGlarLixi patients vs 16.7% of iGlar patients. iGlarLixi patients had more gastrointestinal‐related adverse events than iGlar patients (33.3% vs 8.6%), primarily nausea (16.9% vs 0.8%). However, the treatment was generally well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

A once‐daily injection of iGlarLixi with metformin is an effective, well‐tolerated, and simple therapeutic intervention providing significant improvement in glycemic control in Japanese patients with T2DM inadequately controlled on basal insulin and up to two OADs.

Clinical Trial Number: NCT02752412.
Heliovaccination: Solar mediated immunity against cancer
Authors: Uzoigwe Chika Edward
Published: February 2020

The protective effect of ultraviolet (UV) light against a host of malignancies is well characterised. It was recognised by WHO in their 2006 publication on the global burden of UV‐mediated disease. The mechanism by which this oncoprotective effect occurs remains unclear. Vitamin D has been mooted as a potential mediator. However, the evidence does not support this. I suggest that UV irradiation of the skin produces nascent malignant and premalignant cells with associated generic tumor‐specific antigens. These are eliminated by immunosurveillance resulting in adaptive immunity. The clonal expansion of these immune cells protects against tumors in other viscera, effectively immunising the host. The evidence for this “heliovaccination” is very strong. Childhood UV exposure protects against cancer in adulthood. Tumor naïve individuals possess anti‐tumor antibodies. Antigen‐presenting cells mobilise to the skin following specifically UVB skin irradiation. It is time to rethink the link between UV light and cancer.
The neoliberal logic of state seals of biliteracy
Authors: Schwedhelm Maria C. , King Kendall A.
Published: February 2020

State‐issued seals and certificates of biliteracy are increasingly common nationwide. Nevertheless, limited research to date has examined how this state legislation functions as language in education policy and the ideological foundations of these policies. Addressing this gap, the present paper examines state seals as an instance of neoliberal language education policy and addresses how the policy has been constructed in public discourse and interview narratives and how it has been implemented to date. Focusing on one state, Minnesota, we demonstrate the neoliberal logic that undergirds state seals of biliteracy. Data revealed uneven availability of assessments and access to seals across the state. Access was largely determined by market‐oriented, rational choice ideologies, and dependent upon the language and district in question. Analysis also suggested that while Minnesota seals have been constructed in public discourse as a financial asset, their value is unclear in a potentially inflated marketplace of academic credentials within the state.
Credentialing heritage: The role of community heritage language schools in implementing the Seal of Biliteracy
Authors: Borowczyk Margaret
Published: February 2020

The introduction of the Seal of Biliteracy (SoBL) has presented a potent opportunity for community heritage language schools to credential the heritage language proficiency of their students in a U.S. context. This study explores the involvement of community heritage language schools in the SoBL initiative. It investigates how seven heritage language school administrators view the SoBL, what they see as its potential benefits, and what barriers they see to its full implementation. Results show that despite many potential benefits for community‐based schools, factors such as the status of the language in the wider community, a lack of articulation with local high schools, uneven parental power, and a lack of appropriate assessments, present barriers to full implementation. The paper concludes with suggestions for how to address these barriers and hopes to provide a roadmap for future collaboration between SoBL administrators and heritage language schools.
Woody plant encroachment intensifies under climate change across tundra and savanna biomes
Authors: García Criado Mariana , Myers‐Smith Isla H. , Bjorkman Anne D. , Lehmann Caroline E. R. , Stevens Nicola
Published: February 2020

Aim

Biomes worldwide are shifting with global change. Biomes whose extents are limited by temperature or precipitation, such as the tundra and savanna, may be particularly strongly affected by climate change. While woody plant encroachment is prevalent across both biomes, its relationship to temperature and precipitation change remains unknown. Here, we quantify the degree to which woody encroachment is related to climate change and identify its main associated drivers.

Location

Tundra and savanna biomes.

Time period

1992 ± 20.27–2010 ± 5.62 (mean ± SD). 1876–2016 (range).

Major taxa studied

Woody plants (shrubs and trees).

Methods

We compiled a dataset comprising 1,089 records from 899 sites of woody plant cover over time and attributed drivers of woody cover change across these two biomes. We calculated cover change in each biome and assessed the degree to which cover change corresponds to concurrent temperature and precipitation changes using multiple climate metrics. Finally, we conducted a quantitative literature review of the relative importance of attributed drivers of woody cover change.

Results

Woody encroachment was widespread geographically and across climate gradients. Rates of woody cover change (positive or negative) were 1.8 times lower in the tundra than in the savanna (1.8 vs. 3.2%), while rates of woody cover increase (i.e., encroachment) were c. 1.7 times lower in the tundra compared with the savanna (3.7 vs. 6.3% per decade). In the tundra, magnitudes of woody cover change did not correspond to climate, while in the savanna, greater cover change corresponded with increases in precipitation. We found higher rates of woody cover change in wetter versus drier sites with warming in the tundra biome, and higher rates of woody cover change in drier versus wetter sites with increasing precipitation in the savanna. However, faster rates of woody cover change were not associated with more rapid rates of climate change across sites, except for maximum precipitation in the savanna.

Main conclusions

Woody encroachment was positively related to warming in the tundra and increased rainfall in the savanna. However, cover change rates were not predicted by rates of climate change, which can be partially explained by climate interactions in both biomes. Additional likely influences include site‐level factors, time‐lags, plant‐specific responses, and land use and other non‐climate drivers. Our findings highlight the complex nature of climate change impacts in biomes limited by seasonality, which should be accounted for to realistically estimate future responses across open biomes under global change scenarios.
Effects of Pediococcus pentosaceus on fermentation, aerobic stability and microbial communities during ensiling and aerobic spoilage of total mixed ration silage containing alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Jiang Di , Li Bingnan , Zheng Mingli , Niu Dongze , Zuo Sasa , Xu Chuncheng
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Pediococcus pentosaceus inoculation on the fermentation quality and the dynamics of microbial communities during ensiling and aerobic exposure in total mixed ration (TMR) silage. The TMR were prepared using alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), maize meal, soybean curd residue, soybean meal, calcium carbonate, vitamin‐mineral supplement and salt (60.0:21.4:15.0:2.0:1.0:0.5:0.1, dry matter basis) with or without P. pentosaceus inoculation (105 cfu/g fresh matter) followed by 14 or 28 days of ensiling and exposed to air. Microbial communities were detected by high‐throughput sequencing. After ensiling, P. pentosaceus inoculation benefited silage fermentation as indicated by increased lactic acid content and decreased pH, whereas had no effect on aerobic stability. Taxonomic bacterial community was dominated by Lactobacillales after ensiling, with a notable increase in spoilage microorganisms as a result of aerobic exposure. Aerobically exposed TMR was characterized by an increase of operational taxonomic units belonging to the Hypocreales and with yeast genus Cryptococcus, whereas Monascus was the major mold genus in the aerobically exposed silages. Candida was detected with higher relative abundance only in 28 days aerobically exposed sample inoculated with P. pentosaceus. P. pentosaceus inoculation has good effects on improving the fermentation quality and shows a potential to inhibit the proliferation of Monascus at 28 days of ensiling.
The views and experiences of patients and health‐care professionals on the disclosure of adverse events: A systematic review and qualitative meta‐ethnographic synthesis
Authors: Sattar Raabia , Johnson Judith , Lawton Rebecca
Published: February 2020

Objective

To synthesize the literature on the views and experiences of patients/family members and health‐care professionals (HCPs) on the disclosure of adverse events.

Methods

Systematic review of qualitative studies. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL and PsycINFO. Study quality was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. Qualitative data were analysed using a meta‐ethnographic approach, comprising reciprocal syntheses of ‘patient’ and ‘health‐care professional’ studies, combined to form a lines‐of‐argument synthesis embodying both perspectives.

Results

Fifteen studies were included in the final syntheses. The results highlighted that there is a difference in attitudes and expectations between patients and HCPs regarding the disclosure conversation. Patients/family members expressed a need for information, the importance of sincere regret and a promise of improvement. However, HCPs faced several barriers, which hindered appropriate disclosure practices. These included difficulty of disclosure in a blame culture, avoidance of litigation, lack of skills on how to conduct disclosure and inconsistent guidance. A lines‐of‐argument synthesis is presented that identified both the key elements of an ideal disclosure desired by patients and the facilitators for HCPs, which can increase the likelihood of this taking place.

Conclusions

Although patients/family members and HCPs both advocate disclosure, several barriers prevent HCPs from conducting disclosure effectively. Both groups have different needs for disclosure. To meet patients’ requirements, training on disclosure for HCPs and the development of an open, transparent culture within organizations are potential areas for intervention.
A randomized controlled trial examining an exam room poster to prompt communication about weight
Authors: Brown Callie L. , Howard Janna B. , Perrin Eliana M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Recognition of childhood weight status is important to the adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviours.

Objectives

We assessed whether an exam room educational poster addressing weight and healthy lifestyle behaviours was acceptable to parents, prompted parent‐provider communication or improved parental weight perception accuracy.

Methods

In this multi‐site randomized controlled trial, exam rooms were randomized to display the posters (English and Spanish) or not. Children ages 3 to 8 years (N = 965) attending well visits were weighed and roomed per usual clinic protocol. After the visit, parents completed a questionnaire assessing demographics, child weight status perceptions and whether they discussed weight status with provider or were shown growth charts. We used separate logistic regression analyses to examine associations between intervention status and: asking provider about child weight, being shown growth charts, and accuracy of weight perception, adjusting for covariates and clustering by exam room.

Results

Of the parents who saw the poster, 97% liked seeing it and reported greater understanding of weight status visualization (96%) and healthy lifestyle behaviours (94%). Parents who saw the poster were more likely to report being shown a growth chart (OR 1.87, 95% 1.06, 3.30) but were not more likely to ask about their child's weight status nor accurately report their child's weight status.

Conclusions

An educational exam room poster about healthy weight was well‐received by parents and prompted providers to show the child's growth chart but did not prompt parent‐initiated conversations about weight status nor improve parental weight perception accuracy.
Awl‐like HfC nanowires grown on carbon cloth via Fe‐catalyzed in a polymer pyrolysis route
Authors: Fu Yanqin , Zhang Yulei , Yin Xuemin , Li Tao , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2020

Awl‐like hafnium carbide (HfC) nanowires were successfully synthesized on carbon cloth in a polymer pyrolysis route via Fe‐catalyzed for the first time. A detailed study of the HfC nanowire morphology was performed. X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the morphology and microstructure of the obtained awl‐like HfC nanowires and the growth mechanism was also discussed in detail. Results show that HfC nanowires wrapped by amorphous HfO2 layer with ~10 nm in thickness display awl‐like structure and the nanowire's surface exhibit prismatic geometry. The diameter of the nanowire decreases from the bottom (~500 nm) to the top (~100 nm). The growth mechanism of the awl‐like HfC nanowires was mainly affected by the combination of bottom‐type vapor‐liquid‐solid (VLS) and solid‐liquid‐solid.
Rethinking classic starling displacement experiments: evidence for innate or for learned migratory directions?
Authors: Piersma Theunis , Loonstra A. H. Jelle , Verhoeven Mo A. , Oudman Thomas
Published: February 2020

In an attempt to encourage the discourse on sources of individual variation in seasonal migration patterns and the microevolution of bird migration, we here critically examine the published interpretations of a now classic displacement study with starlingsSturnus vulgaris. Based on the ring recoveries after experimental displacement towards the south and southeast of Dutch capture sites of over 18 000 hatch‐year and older starlings, in a series of analyses published inArdeafrom 1958 to 1983, A. C. Perdeck established that displaced starlings showed appropriately changed orientations only when they were experienced. During both southward and northward migration, released adults navigated to an apparently previously learned goal (i.e. the wintering or the breeding area) by showing appropriately changed orientations. Juveniles showed appropriate directions when returning to the breeding grounds. In contrast, during their first southward migration displaced juveniles carried on in the direction (and possibly the distance) expected for their release at the Dutch capture site. From the mid‐1970s this work has become cited as evidence for starlings demonstrating ‘innate’ migratory directions. If the definition of innateness is ‘not learned by the individual itself’, then there is a range of non‐innate influences on development that are not ruled out by Perdeck's experimental outcomes. For example, young starlings might have carried on in the direction that they learned to migrate before being caught, e.g. by observing the migratory directions of experienced conspecifics. We argue that, despite over 60 citations to Perdeck as demonstrating innate migratory directions, the jury is out.
Novel mutations in ADAMTS13 CUB domains cause abnormal pre‐mRNA splicing and defective secretion of ADAMTS13
Authors: Jiang Yizhi , Huang Dongping , Kondo Yuji , Jiang Miao , Ma Zhenni , Zhou Lu , Su Jian , Bai Xia , Ruan Changgeng , Wang Zhaoyue , Xia Lijun
Published: February 2020

Hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an autosomal recessive thrombosis disorder, caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in ADAMTS13. Mutations in the CUB domains of ADAMTS13 are rare, and the exact mechanisms through which these mutations result in the development of TTP have not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we identified two novel mutations in the CUB domains in a TTP family with an acceptor splice‐site mutation (c.3569−1, G>A, intron 25) and a point missense mutation (c.3923, G>A, exon 28), resulting in a glycine to aspartic acid substitution (p.G1308D). In vitro splicing analysis revealed that the intronic mutation resulted in abnormal pre‐mRNA splicing, and an in vitro expression assay revealed that the missense mutation significantly impaired ADAMTS13 secretion. Although both the patient and her brother displayed significantly reduced ADAMTS13 activity and increased levels of ultra‐large VWF (ULVWF) multimers in plasma, only the female developed acute episodes of TTP. Our findings indicate the importance of the CUB domains for the protein stability and extracellular secretion of ADAMTS13.
Is evidence‐based medicine a mirage in resource‐constrained settings? A survey among resident doctors in selected teaching hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: Bello Segun , Ajayi David Taiwo , Bamgboye Eniola Adetola , Mpama Enagu Akwa
Published: February 2020

Aim

The study aimed to assess the self‐rated knowledge, attitude toward, and practice (KAP) of evidence‐based medicine (EBM) among resident doctors in Nigeria.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional web‐based survey among 238 resident doctors in four selected teaching hospitals in southern Nigeria. Survey questionnaire contained items assessing the KAP of EBM, familiarity with and understanding of key EBM terms, the use of EBM in decision making, barriers militating against EBM and ways to improve EBM adoption. Proportions and summary statistics were reported for the distribution of survey items.

Results

Mean number of years in clinical practice was 9.3 ± 4.5 years. Respondents were uniformly distributed in major clinical specialties. The majority (70.5%) were senior registrars. Respondents’ understanding of EBM components included; current best clinical evidence (98.3%), clinical expertise (65.5%), and patients’ choices (36.6%). Self‐rated familiarity with EBM terms was high while perceived understanding of the terms was lower. The least understood concept was heterogeneity (20.6%). The attitude toward EBM was generally positive. Only about half (53.6%) had used medical bibliographic databases within the last 6 months prior to the survey. Barriers against EBM included lack of time (47.1%) and lack of requisite skills (32.4%). Suggestions to improve EBM adoption included training (58.1%), provision of free Wi‐Fi, and free access to bibliographic databases (25.2%) and increased political will (23.1%).

Conclusion

A further understanding of the EBM concept, provision of enabling infrastructure, regular clinical audit and advocacy to hospital management and clinical consultants, may improve the level of adoption of EBM.
Multiphoton intravital microscopy in small animals: motion artefact challenges and technical solutions
Authors: SOULET D. , LAMONTAGNE‐PROULX J. , AUBÉ B. , DAVALOS D.
Published: February 2020

Since its invention 29 years ago, two‐photon laser‐scanning microscopy has evolved from a promising imaging technique, to an established widely available imaging modality used throughout the biomedical research community. The establishment of two‐photon microscopy as the preferred method for imaging fluorescently labelled cells and structures in living animals can be attributed to the biophysical mechanism by which the generation of fluorescence is accomplished. The use of powerful lasers capable of delivering infrared light pulses within femtosecond intervals, facilitates the nonlinear excitation of fluorescent molecules only at the focal plane and determines by objective lens position. This offers numerous benefits for studies of biological samples at high spatial and temporal resolutions with limited photo‐damage and superior tissue penetration. Indeed, these attributes have established two‐photon microscopy as the ideal method for live‐animal imaging in several areas of biology and have led to a whole new field of study dedicated to imaging biological phenomena in intact tissues and living organisms. However, despite its appealing features, two‐photon intravital microscopy is inherently limited by tissue motion from heartbeat, respiratory cycles, peristalsis, muscle/vascular tone and physiological functions that change tissue geometry. Because these movements impede temporal and spatial resolution, they must be properly addressed to harness the full potential of two‐photon intravital microscopy and enable accurate data analysis and interpretation. In addition, the sources and features of these motion artefacts are varied, sometimes unpredictable and unique to specific organs and multiple complex strategies have previously been devised to address them. This review will discuss these motion artefacts requirement and technical solutions for their correction and after intravital two‐photon microscopy.
Effect of inclusion of HMBi in the ration of goats on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, rumen bacteria community and blood serum parameters
Authors: Chen Dong , Yan Jingcai , Shen Weijun , Song Yang , Lan Xinyi , Yi Kangle , Muhammad Aziz ur Rahman
Published: February 2020

The objective of this experiment was to test the effect of supplementation of analogues of methionine 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylthio butanoic acid isopropyl ester (HMBi) on growth, digestibility, antioxidant index, abundance and composition of rumen bacterial community in Xiangdong Black Goats. Thirty‐six growing Xiangdong Black Goats were divided into four groups in such a way that each group had three replicate and each replicate had three animals. Experimental groups were assigned four levels of HMBi in basal diet: 0% HMBi (on dietary DM basis); 0.05% HMBi; 0.10% HMBi and 0.20% HMBi. Goats fed 0.10% HMBi in basal diet had higher average daily weight gain (p < .05). Goats fed 0.05% HMBi had higher apparent digestibility of gross energy (p < .01). The group 0% HMBi supplementation had a higher level of superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (p < .01). The goats fed 0.20% HMBi in basal diet had a higher level of insulin and leptin (p < .01) than 0% HMBi supplementation goats. 16S rRNA high‐throughput sequencing analysis revealed similarities in the community composition, species diversity and relative abundance of dominant bacteria at the phylum and genus levels among the four groups. In conclusion, HMBi supplementation has no negative effect on apparent digestibility, antioxidant index and the ruminal bacteria composition. Therefore, 0.10% supplementation of HMBi is recommended in the diet of goats to improve the growth performance.
Safety of Algal Oil Containing EPA and DHA in cats during gestation, lactation and growth
Authors: Vuorinen Anna , Bailey‐Hall Eileen , Karagiannis Alexios , Yu Shiguang , Roos Franz , Sylvester Erin , Wilson Jon , Dahms Irina
Published: February 2020

Algal Oil Containing EPA and DHA (AOCED) at approximately 50% was developed as a sustainable n−3 fatty acid source. AOCED was incorporated in diets at dose levels of 0%, 0.75%, 1.5% and 3.0% (w/w) and administered to healthy domestic shorthair female cats starting two weeks before mating, then during mating, gestation, lactation and to their kittens until they reached 32 weeks of age. The diets were made isocaloric and met the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient requirements of cats for growth and reproduction. Dietary AOCED treatment did not affect the overall health, physiological parameters, food consumption and body weights of the queens and their kittens. No AOCED‐related changes in haematology, coagulation or clinical chemistry parameters were observed in either generation when compared to control cats. Plasma levels of EPA and DHA were dose‐dependently increased in both generations, demonstrating bioavailability of the fatty acids. In this study, safety of AOCED at levels up to 3.0% in the diet was demonstrated in cats with administration starting in utero and until kittens reached 32 weeks of age. Bioavailability of EPA and DHA in cats supports use of AOCED as a source of EPA and DHA for feline growth and reproduction.
Potential growth and nutrient removal of Kappaphycus alvarezii in a fish floating‐net cage system in Sekotong Bay, Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Kambey Cicilia S. B. , Sondak Calvyn F. A. , Chung Ik‐Kyo
Published: February 2020

There has been increasing interest in promoting the seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii as a co‐culture species in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture system. In recent work, we observed the capability of K. alvarezii to grow and remove carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) when planted in an intensive fish floating‐net cage system in Sekotong Bay, Lombok, Indonesia. Environmental factors that may influence seaweed bioremediation were investigated. After 42 days, there was a significant difference in the seaweed growth and bioremediation capability while cultivated within the fish cage system compared to the control site. Six kilogram of K. alvarezii incorporated inside the fish cages reduced the inorganic NH4+ and PO43− on average of 22.5–34% and 5–30%, respectively, from morning to afternoon and removed 131 g C g DW−1, 4.6 g N g DW−1, and 1.18 g P g DW−1. The seaweed growth rate inside the fish cages was 3.33% d−1 and higher than at the control site. Water motion was a limiting factor for growth and nutrient bioremediation inside the fish cage system. Our results provide evidence of the potential for K. alvarezii to grow in a fish aquaculture system and reduce the nutrient discharge from fish farms.
Current management of refractory overactive bladder
Authors: Chen Li‐Chen , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: February 2020

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition affecting one‐sixth to one‐fifth of the global population. The treatment of refractory OAB remains a challenge for urologists. Current treatment options include the use of combination therapy with antimuscarinic agents and beta‐3 adrenoceptor agonists, and treating underlying curable disorders. Intravesical botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) injection, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, and sacral nerve stimulation are third‐line management therapies suggested by the American Urological Association/Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction (AUA/SUFU) guidelines. In rare cases, more invasive surgical interventions can be considered after explaining the benefits and risks to the patients. Augmentation cystoplasty has a high success rate; however, it has also been associated with a high complication rate. In contrast, detrusor myomectomy is an easy procedure, but the treatment outcome remains controversial. Liposome‐encapsulated BoNT‐A is administered via bladder instillation, and promising results have been obtained in preliminary studies. More therapies are currently being investigated, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 antagonists may be new type of medication. Radiofrequency ablation and other targets for neuromodulation have also been studied; however, more evidence is needed to confirm their efficacy.
Linking gene expression patterns with survival studies elucidates adaptive potential in changing environments
Authors: Meek Mariah H.
Published: February 2020

A major goal in ecology, evolution and conservation biology is understanding how species adapt to changing conditions and using that information to improve conservation actions. Primary to advancing our understanding of adaptation and adaptive potential is determining the causes and consequences of the genetic and phenotypic intraspecific variation that allows for adaptation. However, few studies have been able to link the variation present in molecular process under differing conditions to intraspecific variation in survival. In a From the Cover article in this issue of Molecular Ecology, Harder et al explore the relationship between molecular process and survival to understand the adaptive variation underlying tolerance to low thiamine (vitamin B1, an essential micronutrient) conditions in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Thiamine is required for metabolic functioning, including energy production and nervous and cardiovascular system functioning. By combining controlled breeding and phenotyping with a survival study and transcriptomics, the authors are able to quantify among‐family differences in survival under low thiamine conditions. They find wide variation in survival among families, and this survival is linked to differences in gene expression patterns. Their study elucidates the importance of combining different data types to characterize within‐population phenotypic variation and understand how that variation may lead to genetic adaptation under stressful conditions.
Phosphate excess increases susceptibility to pathogen infection in rice
Authors: Campos‐Soriano Lidia , Bundó Mireia , Bach‐Pages Marcel , Chiang Su‐Fen , Chiou Tzyy‐Jen , San Segundo Blanca
Published: February 2020

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for plant growth and productivity. Due to soil fixation, however, phosphorus availability in soil is rarely sufficient to sustain high crop yields. The overuse of fertilizers to circumvent the limited bioavailability of phosphate (Pi) has led to a scenario of excessive soil P in agricultural soils. Whereas adaptive responses to Pi deficiency have been deeply studied, less is known about how plants adapt to Pi excess and how Pi excess might affect disease resistance. We show that high Pi fertilization, and subsequent Pi accumulation, enhances susceptibility to infection by the fungal pathogenMagnaporthe oryzaein rice. This fungus is the causal agent of the blast disease, one of the most damaging diseases of cultivated rice worldwide. Equally,MIR399foverexpression causes an increase in Pi content in rice leaves, which results in enhanced susceptibility toM. oryzae. During pathogen infection, a weaker activation of defence‐related genes occurs in rice plants over‐accumulating Pi in leaves, which is in agreement with the phenotype of blast susceptibility observed in these plants. These data support that Pi, when in excess, compromises defence mechanisms in rice while demonstrating that miR399 functions as a negative regulator of rice immunity. The two signalling pathways, Pi signalling and defence signalling, must operate in a coordinated manner in controlling disease resistance. This information provides a basis to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in immunity in rice plants under high Pi fertilization, an aspect that should be considered in management of the rice blast disease.
Brain tumour diagnostics using a DNA methylation‐based classifier as a diagnostic support tool
Authors: Priesterbach‐Ackley L. P. , Boldt H. B. , Petersen J. K. , Bervoets N. , Scheie D. , Ulhøi B. P. , Gardberg M. , Brännström T. , Torp S. H. , Aronica E. , Küsters B. , den Dunnen W. F. A. , de Vos F. Y. F. L. , Wesseling P. , de Leng W. W. J. , Kristensen B. W.
Published: February 2020

Aims

Methylation profiling (MP) is increasingly incorporated in the diagnostic process of central nervous system (CNS) tumours at our centres in The Netherlands and Scandinavia. We aimed to identify the benefits and challenges of MP as a support tool for CNS tumour diagnostics.

Methods

About 502 CNS tumour samples were analysed using (850 k) MP. Profiles were matched with the DKFZ/Heidelberg CNS Tumour Classifier. For each case, the final pathological diagnosis was compared to the diagnosis before MP.

Results

In 54.4% (273/502) of all analysed cases, the suggested methylation class (calibrated score ≥0.9) corresponded with the initial pathological diagnosis. The diagnosis of 24.5% of these cases (67/273) was more refined after incorporation of the MP result. In 9.8% of cases (49/502), the MP result led to a new diagnosis, resulting in an altered WHO grade in 71.4% of these cases (35/49). In 1% of cases (5/502), the suggested class based on MP was initially disregarded/interpreted as misleading, but in retrospect, the MP result predicted the right diagnosis for three of these cases. In six cases, the suggested class was interpreted as ‘discrepant but noncontributory’. The remaining 33.7% of cases (169/502) had a calibrated score <0.9, including 7.8% (39/502) for which no class indication was given at all (calibrated score <0.3).

Conclusions

MP is a powerful tool to confirm and fine‐tune the pathological diagnosis of CNS tumours, and to avoid misdiagnoses. However, it is crucial to interpret the results in the context of clinical, radiological, histopathological and other molecular information.
Time Use and Household Division of Labor in India—Within‐Gender Dynamics
Authors: Srivastava Abhilasha
Published: February 2020

Household allocation of labor is an important area of scholarship in developing countries where women's well‐being is affected by the heavy load of unpaid work within the household. This study extends nuclear household‐centric research on labor allocation by drawing attention to bargaining between female in‐laws in multigenerational households in India. This paper empirically tests two competing theories based on the impact of a daughter‐in‐law's education on household division of labor in multigenerational households. First is Caldwell's thesis that contends that increasing education would increase the bargaining power of daughter‐in‐law, thereby tilting the distribution of household labor in her favor, and the second is patriarchal bargain theory that makes an opposite claim. Both these theories are tested using time‐use data, and the latter is found to have higher explanatory power. Further layers are added to the analysis by tracing the effects of caste, class, and religion. Findings show that these mediate and determine the division of housework and bargaining outcomes between female in‐laws. This study emphasizes the need for an intersectional understanding of gender norms that are inextricably tied to factors such as religion, caste, class, and family structure. Findings also underline the need to study within‐gender dynamics systematically.
Fullerene‐like structures of Cretaceous crinoids reveal topologically limited skeletal possibilities
Authors: Hoyal Cuthill Jennifer F. , Hunter Aaron W.
Published: February 2020

There are few cases where numbers or types of possible phenotypes are known, although vast state spaces have been postulated. Rarely applied in this context, graph theory and topology enable enumeration of possible phenotypes and evolutionary transitions. Here, we generate polyhedral calyx graphs for the Late Cretaceous, stemless crinoids Marsupites testudinarius and Uintacrinus socialis (Uintacrinoidea Zittel) revealing structural similarities to carbon fullerene and fulleroid molecules (respectively). The U. socialis calyx incorporates numerous plates (e.g. graph vertices |V| ≥ 197), which are small, light, low‐density and have four to eight sides. Therefore, the corresponding number of possible plate arrangements (number of polyhedral graphs) is large (≫1 × 1014). Graph vertices representing plates with sides >6 introduce negative Gaussian curvature (surface saddle points) and topological instability, increasing buckling risk. However, observed numbers of vertices for Uintacrinus do not allow more stable pentaradial configurations. In contrast, the Marsupites calyx dual graph has 17 faces that are pentagonal or hexagonal. Therefore, it is structurally identical to a carbon fullerene, specifically C30‐D5h. Corresponding graph restrictions result in constraint to only three structural options (fullerene structures C30‐C2v 1, C30‐C2v 2 and C30‐D5h). Further restriction to pentaradial symmetry allows only one possibility: the Marsupites phenotype. This robust, stable topology is consistent with adaptation to predation pressures of the Mesozoic marine revolution. Consequently, the most plausible evolutionary pathway between unitacrinoid phenotypes was a mixed heterochronic trade‐off to fewer, larger calyx plates. Therefore, topological limitations radically constrained uintacrinoid skeletal possibilities but thereby aided evolution of a novel adaptive phenotype.
Neonatal thyroid‐stimulating hormone and association with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Villanger Gro D. , Ystrom Eivind , Engel Stephanie M. , Longnecker Matthew P. , Pettersen Rolf , Rowe Alexander D. , Reichborn‐Kjennerud Ted , Aase Heidi
Published: February 2020

Background

Normal brain development is dependent on maternal, fetal and neonatal thyroid function. Measuring neonatal thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) 48‐72 hours after birth screens for congenital hypothyroidism, allowing early treatment to avoid serious impairment. However, even within sub‐clinical ranges, disrupted thyroid homeostasis during brain development has been linked to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, including attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Objectives

To estimate the association between neonatal TSH below threshold for potential congenital hypothyroidism and subsequent ADHD diagnosis using a population‐based birth cohort.

Methods

Children with a diagnosis of ADHD in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) were identified through linkage with the Norwegian Patient Registry using ICD‐10 codes for hyperkinetic disorders. The study included 405 ADHD cases and 1,092 controls (born 2003‐2008) with available neonatal TSH concentrations below 10 mU/L (cut‐off for potential congenital hypothyroidism) measured in dried blood spots sampled 48‐72 hours after birth.

Results

In multivariable, quintile models the relationship appeared to follow a U‐shaped pattern with elevated odds ratios (OR) at lower and higher TSH levels. Among children with TSH in the lowest quintile, odds of ADHD was approximately 1.5‐fold higher than children in the middle quintile (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.09, 2.34), which was driven by substantially elevated risk among girls, with no association among boys (Pinteraction = 0.02; girls OR 3.10, 95% CI 1.53, 6.30; boys OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.73, 1.84).

Conclusions

ADHD risk appeared to be elevated among newborns with low TSH levels (i.e. with hyperthyroid status), and this association was mainly found among girls. Because our findings are suggestive of increased risk at very low TSH concentrations, where analytical accuracy is low, future studies should employ highly sensitive assays capable of accurate quantitation at very low concentrations. Also, larger studies are needed to investigate these associations at higher neonatal TSH concentrations where data are more widely distributed.
Efficacy and tolerance of immune checkpoint inhibitors for non‐small cell lung cancer patients with interstitial lung disease – Reply
Authors: Kobayashi Haruki
Published: February 2020

See Letter
Efficacy and tolerance of immune checkpoint inhibitors for non‐small cell lung cancer patients with interstitial lung disease
Authors: Matsumoto Kinnosuke , Adachi Yuichi , Enomoto Takatoshi
Published: February 2020

See Reply
Use of a cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator for parenchyma‐sparing and complex liver resections in dogs
Authors: Sellier Clément , Carabalona Julien , Hahn Harriet , DVM Eymeric Gomes , Bismuth Camille ,   Hepato‐biliary and Pancreatic surgery
Published: February 2020

Objective

To report the clinical use of a cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA) for the resection of hepatic lesions in dogs.

Study design

Clinical prospective study.

Animals

Eleven client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Dogs requiring a hepatic nodulectomy, segmentectomy, and/or a lobectomy (including complex lobectomies) were enrolled. The number and location of procedures, blood loss, duration of surgery, and short‐term complications were recorded.

Results

Dogs underwent a mean of 2.3 ± 1.1 procedures. All masses were amenable to surgical excision regardless of their location and their relationship with major hepatic vessels. Dogs lost a median of 77 mL of blood (9.9‐161), which corresponded to 4.3% of blood volume (0.8%–23.2%). The dog with the highest blood loss survived without requiring transfusion. The median duration of all CUSA procedures was 33.5 minutes (15‐82). Short‐term outcomes were assessed for the first 15 days, during which two complications were diagnosed. Cholangiohepatitis was diagnosed in one dog and resolved after medical management, and another dog developed necrotic pancreatitis and died.

Conclusion

Liver parenchyma‐sparing nodulectomies and segmentectomies and liver lobectomies including complex lobectomies were achieved with a CUSA in all dogs.

Clinical significance

Use of a CUSA can be considered as an alternative for the removal of hepatic lesions in dogs.
Modeling Arbitrarily Shaped Liquid Pipelines Using a Segmented Transmission Line Model
Authors: Wiens Travis
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a new method of simulating the dynamic flow and pressure of laminar liquid flow through pipes of arbitrarily changing cross section. This method uses a segmented model based on the previously presented tapered transmission line model (TLM). This new method is computationally efficient and has comparable accuracy to previous methods such as the method of characteristics (MOC), but allow for more flexibility in solution time-step (such as accommodating variable time-step solvers), which is required if the rest of the system model has stiff equations. For the sample geometry presented, the new model calculates the dynamic response an order of magnitude faster than the previous method of characteristics solution, with minimal loss of accuracy.
Diagnostic performance of ultrasound for rotator cuff tears: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liang Weiyu , Wu Huaiyu , Dong Fajin , Tian Hongtian , Xu Jinfeng
Published: February 2020

Aim: Rotator cuff (RC) tears are considered to be the main reason for shoulder pain. Although ultrasound is a useful method to detect it, its effectiveness when diagnosing RC tears has been a heated discussion. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating RC tears’ ultrasound accuracy by conducting a systemically review and pooled comprehensive analysis.Materials and methods: Relevant articles up to May 2018 were searched from the Cochrane Library, Embase, and Pubmed databases. Either arthroscopy or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was considered as a reference standard. The results were estimated by pooled-sensitivity (P-SEN), pooled-specificity (P-SPE), pooled-diagnostic odds ratio (P-DOR), pooled-likelihood ratio+ (PLR+), pooled-likelihood ratio- (P-LR-), and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC).Result: We selected seven prospective studies in accordance with the inclusion criteria that covered 554 rotator cuff tears in 868 patients. The P-SEN, P-SPE, P-LR+, P-LR-, P-DOR, area under the SROC curve of diagnostic performance of ultrasound for RC and post-test probability were 95% (95% CI: 88 – 98), 72% (95% CI: 61 – 81), 3.41 (95% CI: 2.40 – 4.84), 0.08 (95% CI: 0.03 – 0.16), 45.31 (95% CI: 21.04 – 97.59), 89% (95% CI: 0.86 – 0.91), and 46% and 2%, respectively.Conclusion: Our metaanalysis demonstrates that ultrasound has a high efficiency for RC tears’ diagnosis. It can be a promising method in patients with suspected RC tears because of its high sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy.
A Case Studies Approach to Teaching Introductory Physics
Authors: DiLisi Gregory A. , Chaney Alison , McLean Stella , Rarick Richard
Published: February 2020

Over the past several years, we have contributed several articles to TPT that focused on a forensics-style reexamination of historical events. In each article, we presented a case study as a pedagogy for teaching topics from introductory-level physics courses. Recently, we assembled our prior work into a series of “MythBusters”-style modules for pre-service teachers (PSTs). The goal of these modules is to widen the pedagogical viewpoint of the PSTs by exposing them to case studies as a means of teaching physics, problem solving, and critical thinking. In this article, we describe the design and rationale of our modules while providing anecdotal commentary from a cohort of PSTs who trial tested them. We identify several unique teaching opportunities that we share with readers of TPT.
Measuring the Coefficient of Kinetic Friction by Exploring Dynamics of Rotational Motion
Authors: Drosd Robert , Minkin Leonid
Published: February 2020

Measuring the coefficients of static, kinetic, and rolling friction are typical experimental tasks for physics students. These coefficients depend on many factors that are difficult to control and so results may vary depending on the method used. We present a novel method of measuring the coefficient of kinetic friction. This method is based on the exploration of the dynamics of rotational motion and makes use of standard physics lab apparatus and procedures. We will focus on the coefficient of kinetic friction and will show that there is good agreement between the values of the coefficient when measured by either the traditional linear motion method or this new rotational technique.
A Measurement of Gravitational Acceleration Using a Metal Ball, a Ruler, and a Smartphone
Authors: Kim J. , Bouman L. , Cayruth F. , Elliott C. , Francis B. , Gogo E. , Hyman C. , Marshall A. , Masters J. , Olano W. , Paone A. , Patel K. , Richards L. , Sbardella C. , Snider A. , Trinh B. , Umari F. , Wilks H.
Published: February 2020

These days, smartphones are popular commodities among students in high school and college. Students carry their devices all the time, so why not use such a popular electronic device to measure physical quantities such as g in physics labs? In this work, we report a “multiple tasking” method, a measurement technique that we came up with, for this very purpose. The method is simple: A person holds a ball using one hand and prepares to activate a recording function using another hand. Then the person drops the metal ball and starts the voice memo simultaneously. The time the ball takes to reach the floor is measured by reviewing the sound amplitude recorded, and the magnitude of g is calculated from the time. The error due to the auditory reaction time alone could be about 0.15 s, but we could measure the time in a 0.02-s range at 95% confidence level. A “using sound” technique to measure g was introduced before, but given that triggers such as a latch or something equivalent could introduce larger errors due to the device resolutions, we came up with our own.