bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional genomics of abiotic environmental adaptation in lacertid lizards and other vertebrates
Authors: Wollenberg Valero Katharina C. , Garcia‐Porta Joan , Irisarri Iker , Feugere Lauric , Bates Adam , Kirchhof Sebastian , Jovanović Glavaš Olga , Pafilis Panayiotis , Samuel Sabrina F. , Müller Johannes , Vences Miguel , Turner Alexander P. , Beltran‐Alvarez Pedro , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: October 2021

Understanding the genomic basis of adaptation to different abiotic environments is important in the context of climate change and resulting short‐term environmental fluctuations.

Using functional and comparative genomics approaches, we here investigated whether signatures of genomic adaptation to a set of environmental parameters are concentrated in specific subsets of genes and functions in lacertid lizards and other vertebrates.

We first identify 200 genes with signatures of positive diversifying selection from transcriptomes of 24 species of lacertid lizards and demonstrate their involvement in physiological and morphological adaptations to climate. To understand how functionally similar these genes are to previously predicted candidate functions for climate adaptation and to compare them with other vertebrate species, we then performed a meta‐analysis of 1,100 genes under selection obtained from ‐omics studies in vertebrate species adapted to different abiotic factors.

We found that the vertebrate gene set formed a tightly connected interactome, which was to 23% enriched in previously predicted functions of adaptation to climate, and to a large part (18%) involved in organismal stress response. We found a much higher degree of identical genes being repeatedly selected among different animal groups (43.6%), and of functional similarity and post‐translational modifications than expected by chance, and no clear functional division between genes used for ectotherm and endotherm physiological strategies. In total, 171 out of 200 genes of Lacertidae were part of this network.

These results highlight an important role of a comparatively small set of genes and their functions in environmental adaptation and narrow the set of candidate pathways and markers to be used in future research on adaptation and stress response related to climate change.
Are microorganisms everywhere they can be?
Authors: Cockell Charles S.
Published: October 2021

Baas‐Becking is famously attributed with the conjecture that ‘everything is everywhere, but the environment selects’. Although this aphorism is largely challenged by microbial biogeographical data, even weak versions of the claim leave unanswered the question about whether all environments that could theoretically support life contain life. In the last decade, the discovery of thermally sterilized habitable environments disconnected from inhabited regions, and habitats within organisms such as the sterile, but habitable human fetal gut, suggest the existence of a diversity of macroscopic habitable environments apparently devoid of actively metabolizing or reproducing life. Less clear is the status of such environments at the micron scale, for example, between colonies of organisms within rock interstices or on and within other substrates. I discuss recent evidence for these types of environments. These environments have practical uses in: (i) being negative controls for understanding the role of microbial processes in geochemical cycles and geological processes, (ii) yielding insights into the extent to which the biosphere extends into all spaces it theoretically can, (iii) suggesting caution in interpreting the results of life detection instrumentation, and (iv) being useful for establishing the conditions for the origin of life and its prevalence on other planetary bodies.
Diagnostic value of 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET‐CT imaging for staging of ER+/PR+ HER2‐ breast cancer patients with metastatic disease: Comparison with conventional imaging with bone scan, diagnostic CT and 18F‐FDG PET‐CT in a prospective pilot trial
Authors: Nguyen Andrew , Fullard Karen , Sheehan‐Dare Gemma , Tang Reuben , Chan Lyn , Ho Bao , Dear Rachel , Keane Joanne , Hickey Adam , Nandurkar Rohan , Chen Julia , Chen Andrew , Lim Elgene , Emmett Louise
Published: October 2021

Introduction

18F‐Fludeoxyglucose PET‐CT (FDG) is increasingly used to stage breast cancer. Most breast cancers express the Oestrogen Receptor (ER) and Progesterone Receptor (PR), and this subtype demonstrates lower activity on FDG imaging. Somatostatin receptors (SSTR) offer a potentially improved radiotracer target for ER+/PR+ breast cancer. We present the first in vivo clinical study comparing 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET‐CT (DOTA) to FDG and conventional imaging (bone scan and diagnostic CT), in metastatic ER+/PR+ human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative breast cancer.

Methods

Patients with clinically progressive metastatic ER+/PR+ HER2‐ breast cancer underwent restaging with DOTA, FDG and conventional imaging. Scans were analysed visually, and semi‐quantitatively. Wilcoxon‐Rank Scoring was used to assess significance.

Results

Ten women (mean age 57 years) underwent imaging. 8/10 demonstrated disease on both DOTA and FDG. 2/10 positive on conventional imaging, but DOTA−/FDG−, and had no disease progression at 1‐year follow‐up. Heterogeneity of uptake was seen between DOTA and FDG with 5 bone lesions DOTA+/FDG− and 1 bone lesion FDG+/DOTA−. Twenty‐one visceral lesions were FDG+/DOTA− (2 patients), with 10/21 identified on conventional imaging. Maximum standard uptake values (SUV max) of DOTA were greater than FDG (10.9 vs. 6.6, P = ns). Four sites were biopsied (3 patients). 3/4 had high ER/PR expression (mean DOTA SUV max 9.4) and 1/4 low ER/PR expression (DOTA SUV max 3.1).

Conclusion

Whilst we have not demonstrated DOTA to be superior to FDG in staging of ER+/PR+ breast cancers, DOTA may have a role in assessing HR status and treatment decisions; further evaluation of this is warranted.
Imprinting of canine IGF2 and H19
Authors: Brabazon D. C. , Callanan J. J. , Nolan C. M.
Published: October 2021

Genomic imprinting occurs in therian mammals and is a phenomenon whereby the two alleles of a gene are differentially expressed, based on the sex of the parent from whom the alleles were inherited. The allelic differences in expression are the consequence of different epigenetic modifications that are established in the sperm or oocyte during gametogenesis and transmitted at fertilization to offspring. A small minority of genes is regulated in this way but they have important biological functions, and aberrant regulation of imprinted genes contributes to disease aetiology in humans and other animals. The factors driving the evolution of imprinted genes are also of considerable interest, as these genes appear to forego the benefits of diploidy. To broaden the phylogenetic analysis of genomic imprinting, we began a study of imprinted genes in the domestic dog, Canis familiaris. In this report, we show that canine IGF2 and H19 are imprinted, with parent‐of origin‐dependent monoallelic expression patterns in neonatal umbilical cord. We identify a putative imprint control region associated with the genes, and provide evidence for differential methylation of this region in a somatic tissue (umbilical cord) and for its hypermethylation in the male germline. Canis familiaris is fast becoming a highly informative system for elucidating disease processes and evolution, and the study of imprinted genes in this species may help in understanding how these genes contribute to the generation of morphological and behavioral diversity.
The impact of surgically diagnosed symptomatic endometriosis on women’s social lives, work and education: An inductive classical content analysis
Authors: Mastrangelo Melody , Turnbull Deborah
Published: October 2021

Aims:

The aim of this study is to extend understandings of the impact of surgically diagnosed endometriosis on women’s social lives, work and education.

Methods:

Participants (N = 200; average age: 27.1 years (±6.72)) were recruited from a range of sources, including social media and private women’s health clinics. They completed an online survey comprising seven open‐ended questions about how experience with endometriosis impacted (i) overall life; (ii) family relationships; (iii) friendships; (iv) attendance at social events; (v) engagement in leisure activities; (vi) work; and (vii) education. Data were analysed using inductive classical content analysis.

Results:

The data set contained 1400 discrete codable statements, with 19% of women reporting some form of social impact. A key result was the role of family and friends, both positive and negative, as well as the positive role that the workplace/educational institution can play (noted by 50% of participants). Findings highlight the negative impact on leisure activities, reported by 86% of women. The exhaustion of sick and unpaid leave was reported by 41% of women.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the impact of endometriosis on the social and economic lives of Australian women and underscores the importance of the comprehensive response recommended in the National Action Plan for Endometriosis.
Associations between aspirin prophylaxis and fetal growth and preeclampsia in women with pregestational diabetes
Authors: Shrestha Khatri Nely , White Scott W. , Graham Dorothy F.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Current guidelines recommend low‐dose aspirin for preeclampsia prophylaxis in all women with pregestational (type one and type two) diabetes mellitus. Most trials showing the efficacy of low‐dose aspirin in reducing preeclampsia risk have either excluded or included only small numbers of such women.

Aim:

To evaluate the association of low‐dose aspirin prophylaxis in women with pregestational diabetes with the incidence of large for gestational age (LGA) infants and preeclampsia.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective observational study of pregnancies to women with pregestational diabetes. Outcomes included rates of LGA and preeclampsia. Women were prescribed low‐dose aspirin prophylaxis from early pregnancy according to physician discretion after considering preeclampsia risk. Statistical analyses assessed the group overall and with stratification by diabetes type and other preeclampsia risk factors.

Results:

Of 716 pregnancies, aspirin was prescribed in 296 (41%). Preeclampsia occurred more frequently in women who received aspirin (58 of 296, 20%) than those who did not (39 of 420, 9%, P < 0.001). This association was maintained after adjustment for diabetes type and other preeclampsia risk factors (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.78; 95% CI 1.02–3.11). LGA infants were commoner in women with type one diabetes of short duration who took aspirin (aOR 2.21; 95% CI 1.05–4.66).

Conclusion:

Low‐dose aspirin use in women with pregestational diabetes may be associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia. In women with type one diabetes of short duration aspirin use may be associated with an increased risk of LGA infants. The retrospective nature of this study is acknowledged and assessment of such prophylaxis by further studies is warranted.
Defining the learning curve of transanal total mesorectal excision: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lau Steve Yee Chiang , Choy Kay Tai , Yang Tze Wei Wilson , Heriot Alexander , Warrier Satish K. , Guest Glenn D. , Kong Joseph C.
Published: October 2021

Background

Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) represents a novel approach to rectal dissection. Although many structured training programs have been developed worldwide to assist surgeons in implementing this new technique, the learning curve (LC) of taTME has yet to be conclusively defined. This is particularly important given the concerns regarding the complication profile and oncological safety of taTME. The aim of this review was to provide an up‐to‐date systematic review and meta‐analysis of the LC for taTME, comparing the difference of outcomes between the LC and after learning curve (ALC) groups.

Methods

An up‐to‐date systematic review was performed on the available literature between 2010–2020 on PubMed, EMBASE, Medline and Cochrane Library databases. All studies comparing taTME procedures before and after LC were analysed.

Results

Seven retrospective studies of prospectively collected databases were included, comparing 333 (51.0%) patients in the LC group and 320 (49.0%) patients in the ALC group. There was a significantly reduced number of adverse intra‐operative events, anastomotic leaks and improved quality of mesorectal excision in the ALC group.

Conclusion

This review shows that there is a significant improvement in clinical outcomes between the LC and ALC groups which supports the need for careful mastery and ongoing technical refinement during the LC in taTME. This procedure should be performed on a subset of carefully selected patients in the hands of experienced and well‐trained teams dedicated to ongoing audit.
Predictive factors for bleeding carotid artery pseudoaneurysms in patients with previous radiations for head and neck cancers
Authors: He Zhexi , Zhuang Tin Fong James , Ng Yuen Ting Rebecca , Cheng Horace , Tong Macy , Yu Chun Ho Simon , Wong George Kwok Chu
Published: October 2021

Background

Bleeding from carotid artery pseudoaneurysms is an emergency condition with high morbidity and mortality. We aimed to identify risk factors predicting pseudoaneurysmal bleeding as the cause of profuse epistaxis in irradiated head and neck cancer patients with suspect carotid blowout or pseudoaneurysms.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with history of radiation therapy for head and neck cancers and with nasal, oral or ear bleeding requiring in‐patient treatment from hospital database. Pseudoaneurysms were subgrouped into internal carotid artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysms, and external carotid artery (ECA) pseudoaneurysms. The treatment outcomes were evaluated using 30‐day mortality rate, recurrent bleeding, and cerebral infarction.

Results

There were 41 admissions for suspected carotid blowout or pseudoaneurysms from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2020 with 17 bleeding pseudoaneurysms identified, including 11 internal carotid arteries (ICA) pseudoaneurysms and 6 external carotid arteries (ECA) pseudoaneurysms. Among ICA pseudoaneurysms, six patients passed Balloon occlusion test with embolization and parent artery occlusion (trapping) of ICA performed, and all ECA pseudoaneurysms were embolized with parent artery occlusion (trapping). Baseline hypertension and hypotension on arrival were predictive for pseudoaneurysmal bleeding. The degree of haemoglobin drop was not significantly different between pseudoaneurysmal bleeding and non‐pseudoaneurysmal bleeding (2.1 ± 1.4 g/dL vs. 1.6 ± 1.4 g/dL, p = 0.234).

Conclusions

We identified baseline hypertension and hypotension on arrival as predictive factors for pseudoaneurysmal bleeding in patients with irradiated head and neck cancer. Presence of these risk factors should alert the clinicians to the possibility of carotid pseudoaneurysms.
In‐hospital survival after pancreatoduodenectomy is greater in high‐volume hospitals versus lower‐volume hospitals: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Kovoor Joshua G. , Ma Ning , Tivey David R. , Vandepeer Meegan , Jacobsen Jonathan Henry W. , Scarfe Anje , Vreugdenburg Thomas D. , Stretton Brandon , Edwards Suzanne , Babidge Wendy J. , Anthony Adrian A. , Padbury Robert T. A. , Maddern Guy J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Variation in cut‐off values for what is considered a high volume (HV) hospital has made assessments of volume‐outcome relationships for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) challenging. Accordingly, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis comparing in‐hospital mortality after PD in hospitals above and below HV thresholds of various cut‐off values.

Method

PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched to 4 January 2021 for studies comparing in‐hospital mortality after PD in hospitals above and below defined HV thresholds. After data extraction, risk of bias was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. A random‐effects model was used for meta‐analysis, including meta‐regressions. Registration: PROSPERO, CRD42021224432.

Results

From 1855 records, 17 observational studies of moderate quality were included. Median HV cut‐off was 25 PDs/year (IQR: 20–32). Overall relative risk of in‐hospital mortality was 0.37 (95% CI: 0.30, 0.45), that is, 63% less in HV hospitals. All subgroup analyses found an in‐hospital survival benefit in performing PDs at HV hospitals. Meta‐regressions from included studies found no statistically significant associations between relative risk of in‐hospital mortality and region (USA vs. non‐USA; p = 0.396); or 25th percentile (p = 0.231), median (p = 0.822) or 75th percentile (p = 0.469) HV cut‐off values. Significant inverse relationships were found between PD hospital volume and other outcomes.

Conclusion

In‐hospital survival was significantly greater for patients undergoing PDs at HV hospitals, regardless of HV cut‐off value or region. Future research is required to investigate regions where low‐volume centres have specialized PD infrastructure and the potential impact on mortality.
Understanding the mechanism of retinal displacement following rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair: A computer simulation model
Authors: Farahvash Armin , Marafon Samara B. , Juncal Verena R. , Figueiredo Natalia , Ramachandran Arun , Muni Rajeev H.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Retinal displacement is common following rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair. A computer simulation was developed to assess forces applied by a gas tamponade of various sizes in the setting of pneumatic retinopexy (PnR) versus pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).

Design

Computer simulation model.

Methods

The contact angle and pressure between the tamponade and the retina were calculated using interfacial tension and the densities of gas and vitreous. A simulation determined the dynamics of fluid motion in the subretinal space and calculated deformations of the retina.

Results

Bulk flow of fluid away from the tamponade in a direction along gravity stretched the retina and caused displacement in the simulations. Extent of displacement is attributable to the subretinal fluid layer thickness, and area of contact and contact pressure applied by the tamponade. Larger gas tamponades have greater contact pressure applied to the retina. Reducing gas bubble size from 93% to 6.25% with PPV versus PnR, there was a 79% reduction in the mean contact pressure (1.4 mmHg–0.29 mmHg), and a 93% reduction in the surface area of contact (11 cm2–0.8 cm2). Therefore, the contact force applied to the entire retina decreases by 97% from 83 mN (PPV) to 2.9 mN (PnR). The model resembling PnR had more than three times less displacement compared to PPV.

Conclusions

This model provides a framework to study retinal displacement. Our findings suggest that proportional to their size, gas tamponades stretched the retina by displacing subretinal fluid following RRD repair.
The advantages of listening to academic content in a second language may be outweighed by disadvantages: A cognitive load theory approach
Authors: Roussel Stéphanie , Tricot André , Sweller John
Published: October 2021

Background

It is frequently implicitly assumed that advantages in language acquisition when learning content through a second language exceed the disadvantages of reduced content acquisition.

Aims

Based on cognitive load theory, that assumption was tested experimentally. The theory is concerned with techniques for reducing extraneous working memory load in order to facilitate learning.

Materials

This study used a listening task.

Methods

French students of Law and Political Science listened to an audio document about the European Court of Humans Rights under one of four experimental conditions: in their native language (French) twice; in a second language (German) twice; first in French, then in German; or first in German then in French. After the listening task, we tested students’ understanding of both the German language and of the academic content.

Results

Our results indicated that listening to the content in French before listening to it in a second language was beneficial for both content and language learning. In contrast, listening to content in a second language not only depressed content acquisition as is to be expected, but also depressed language acquisition. We discuss the relevance of cognitive load theory to frame learning tasks aimed at teaching content through a second language.
Do large losses loom larger than gains? Salience, holding periods, and the disposition effect
Authors: Kotomin Vladimir , Varma Abhishek
Published: October 2021

Individual investors are more likely to sell stocks with nominal gains and losses that are large relative to their brokerage portfolio value. The salience of nominal gains and losses affects stock sales in both taxable and tax‐deferred accounts and across investor groups, but the effect of nominal losses is weaker for stocks with high valuation uncertainty. The effect has a time dimension: at short holding periods, individuals are more likely to sell stocks with large nominal losses than gains of the same size, mitigating the disposition effect. Investors may be compelled to revisit their beliefs after incurring large losses quickly.
Safety and durability of cavo‐tricuspid isthmus linear ablation in the current era: Single‐center 9‐year experience from 1078 procedures
Authors: Kakehashi Shota , Miyazaki Shinsuke , Hasegawa Kanae , Nodera Minoru , Mukai Moe , Aoyama Daisetsu , Nagao Moeko , Sekihara Takayuki , Eguchi Tomoya , Yamaguchi Junya , Shiomi Yuichiro , Tama Naoto , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Ishida Kentaro , Uzui Hiroyasu , Tada Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

Background

Cavo‐tricuspid isthmus (CTI) linear ablation is performed not only for atrial flutter (AFL) but empirically during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in real‐world practice. 

Purpose

We sought to evaluate the safety and durability of the CTI ablation. 

Methods

This retrospective study included 1078 consecutive patients who underwent a CTI ablation. AFL was documented before or during the procedure in 249 (23.1%) patients, and an empirical CTI and AF ablation were performed in 829 (76.9%) patients. 

Results

CTI block was successfully created in 1051 (97.5%) patients with a 10.3 ± 6.6 min total radiofrequency time. Repeat procedures were performed for recurrent arrhythmias in 187 (17.3%) patients at a median of 11.0 (5.0–30.0) months postprocedure, and conduction resumption was identified in 68/174 (39.1%). Among those undergoing a CTI ablation with an AF ablation, the durability was significantly higher in those with than without documented AFL (78.1% vs. 58.2%, p = .031). 

The total radiofrequency time was significantly shorter (9.0 ± 5.3 vs. 10.0 ± 6.4 [mins], p = .024) and durability significantly higher (78.1 vs. 58.7[%], p = .043) in the large‐tip than irrigated‐tip catheter group. Iatrogenic AFL was observed after the empiric CTI ablation in 11 (1.3%) patients. Procedure‐related complications occurred in 15 (1.4%) patients. Eight patients experienced coronary artery spasms, including one with ventricular fibrillation following ST elevation on the ward. The other six patients experienced transient atrioventricular block and one experienced cardiac tamponade requiring drainage. 

Conclusions

Despite a high acute CTI ablation success, the conduction block durability was relatively low after the empiric ablation. An empiric CTI ablation at the time of the AF ablation is not recommended.
Association of glycated hemoglobin at an early stage of pregnancy with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus among non‐diabetic women in Japan: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Sekine Tetsuo , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Uchinuma Hiroyuki , Horiuchi Sayaka , Kushima Megumi , Otawa Sanae , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Miyake Kunio , Akiyama Yuka , Ooka Tadao , Kojima Reiji , Shinohara Ryoji , Hirata Shuji , Yamagata Zentaro ,   The Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group
Published: October 2021

Aims/Introduction

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to explore the associations between glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at the early stage of pregnancy and the GDM risk among non‐diabetic women in a nationwide study in Japan. In addition, the relationship between GDM and adverse pregnancy outcomes was also analyzed.

Materials and Methods

This cohort study (n = 89,799) used data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study. We stratified the participants into four groups according to HbA1c levels at an early stage of pregnancy. We investigated the association of HbA1c at an early stage of pregnancy with the risk of GDM, and of GDM with the risk of some representative adverse pregnancy outcomes, using the multiple logistic regression model with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

The adjusted odds ratio for GDM per 0.1 percentage point increase in HbA1c (%) was 1.20. The adjusted odds ratio for developing GDM was significantly increased in women from the HbA1c 5.0–5.4% category. GDM significantly increased the adjusted odds ratio for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, polyhydramnios and premature birth.

Conclusions

High‐normal HbA1c levels at the early stage of pregnancy are significantly associated with GDM risk in women in Japan. GDM was significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Digestive proteinases from the marine fish processing wastes of the South‐West Atlantic Ocean: Their partial characterization and comparison
Authors: Friedman Ivana S. , Behrens Leonel A. , Pereira Nair de los Angeles , Contreras Edgardo M. , Fernández‐Gimenez Analia V.
Published: October 2021

Fish processing generates plenty of waste that is directly discarded in open‐air dumps and water sources, or treated in the same way as urban solid waste, causing serious pollution problems. The waste represents a significant source of high‐value bioproducts with potential applications in different industrial processes such as the production of feed, fertilizers, biodiesel and biogas, detergent additives and cosmetics. The objective of this study was to characterize and compare specific activities under different pH values and temperature conditions of acid and alkaline proteinases and viscera yield from the following fish species: Argentine hake Merluccius hubbsi, Brazilian flathead Percophis brasiliensis, Brazilian codling Urophycis brasiliensis and Stripped weakfish Cynoscion guatucupa. Individuals were fished off the coast of Mar del Plata (Argentina) by a commercial fleet and the viscera were immediately extracted and kept on ice until use. Stomach proteinases from four species had the highest activity at pH 2, with stability in the range of pH 2–4. The optimum pH was 11.5 from intestinal enzymes of C. guatucupa, M. hubbsi and P. brasiliensis and 9.5 from intestinal enzymes of U. brasiliensis. Alkaline proteinases from all species were highly stable in the range of 7–11.5. The optimum temperature of stomach proteinases from the four species studied were 30 and 50°C, with stability at 10 and 30°C during 150 min. The optimum temperature of intestinal enzymes from the tested species were 50°C with high stability at 10 and 30°C during 150 min. Alkaline proteinase from all species and acid proteinases from C. guatucupa were inactive at 70°C after 150 min, while there was a residual activity lower than 5% at 80°C on pre‐incubated stomach enzymes of M.hubbsi, P. brasiliensis and U. brasiliensis after 5, 10 and 20 min, respectively. Digestive proteinases recovered in this study could be appropriate for technological usage, reducing manufacturing costs, obtaining revenue from fishery wastes, and contributing to the reduction of environmental pollution.
Combination treatment for buttock and abdominal remodeling and skin improvement using HIFEM procedure and simultaneous delivery of radiofrequency and targeted pressure energy
Authors: Duncan Diane Irvine
Published: October 2021

Background

High‐intensity electromagnetic field procedure (HIFEM) is an effective tool for body shaping and muscle toning. Radiofrequency (RF) combined with targeted pressure energy (TPE) provides the solution for skin laxity and cellulite.

Aims

To document the effect of consecutive use of HIFEM, RF, and TPE for treatment of abdomen and buttocks.

Methods

Fifteen subjects (44.3 ± 14.2 years, 22.3 ± 2.3 kg/m2) finished treatments and consequent follow‐ups. They were treated over the abdomen (Group 1, N = 7) or buttocks (Group 2, N = 8), receiving four treatment procedures consisting of HIFEM treatment administered first, immediately followed by the simultaneous RF & TPE treatment. Each session took approximately 50 min (30 min of HIFEM; up to 20 min of RF & TPE) depending on the treated area. Study outcomes were assessed by the circumference measurement, satisfaction and comfort questionnaires, and digital photographs.

Results

Combined treatments were safe and comfortable. At 1 month, the abdominal circumference significantly decreased by 4.4 cm, while buttocks showed a significant increase by 1.0 cm. The abdomen (−4.1 cm) and buttocks (+1.2 cm) circumference results were sustained for three months without a significant decline. Satisfaction was high in both groups (93.3%) since most subjects noted that the appearance of the treated area has been improved, referring to both body sculpting and skin appearance.

Conclusions

The consecutive application of HIFEM, RF, and TPE treatments noticeably improved the appearance of the abdomen and buttocks. Subjects showed enhancement of abdominal body contour, buttock lifting, and improved skin quality manifested by reduced skin laxity and cellulite.
Exploring dyadic management of nutrition care throughout and beyond head and neck cancer treatment
Authors: Hiatt Joanne , Young Adrienne , Brown Teresa , Banks Merrilyn , Bauer Judith
Published: October 2021

Aims and Objectives

To identify how patients and carers collaborate to manage nutrition care throughout and beyond head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment as a step towards identifying changes to service delivery that are inclusive of the needs of the patient–carer dyad.

Background

Research in the field of dyadic interventions in cancer care is emerging, and there has been little work exploring patient–carer dyad needs in the provision of nutrition care in HNC.

Design

A qualitative study design was used.

Methods

Narrative interviews were completed with 13 patients and 15 carers over a 12‐month period (prior to treatment commencing, and 2 weeks, 3 months and 12 months post‐treatment completion). Deductive analysis of interview transcripts was performed using directed content analysis guided by the Theory of Dyadic Illness Management (TDIM). COREQ guidelines were used.

Results

Seven themes across four TDIM constructs were identified: (1) understanding and adapting to physical challenges impacting nutrition intake, (2) adjusting to emotional impact of changes to eating and drinking, (3) providing practical support, (4) intrapersonal characteristics, (5) interpersonal characteristics, (6) healthcare culture and (7) managing carer burnout.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of healthcare professionals recognising the patient and carer dyad as a team to enhance engagement in nutrition care and to ensure that their physical and psychological support needs across the cancer continuum are met.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is important that healthcare professionals understand information and support needs and preferences within patient–carer dyads prior to HNC treatment commencing and adapt care and interventions based on their changing needs throughout and beyond the treatment period.
Dental access and expenditures for adults with intellectual and other disabilities
Authors: Fosse Chelsea , Luo Huabin , Laniado Nadia , Okunseri Christopher , Badner Victor
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Individuals with disabilities experience greater barriers accessing health care services and have poorer oral health outcomes than those without disabilities. The aims of this study were to examine dental access, utilization, expenditures, and sources of payment between adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), other types of disabilities, and without disabilities.

Methods

Secondary analyses of data from the 2017 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) allowed examination of dental access (being able to get dental care and receiving necessary dental care without delay), dental utilization (having a dental visit in the past year), total dental expenditures, and associated sources of payment between three groups of adults based on disability status using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable statistics.

Results

Adults with ID have 2.70 (95% CI: 2.03, 3.61) times the odds of being unable to get dental care and 2.88 (95% CI: 2.11, 3.94) times the odds of having to delay necessary dental care compared with adults without disabilities. No significant differences were observed in dental utilization or mean total dental expenditure between the three groups after adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic variables. Among adults who incurred a dental expenditure, adults with ID had a greater share of dental care paid for by Medicaid, and adults without disabilities had a greater share of dental care paid for by private insurance.

Conclusions

Despite similar mean total dental expenditures, reduced dental access reported by adults with ID suggests that this population experiences significantly greater challenges obtaining dental care. Adults with ID rely more heavily on Medicaid to finance dental care.
Effects of the “Care for Participation+” Intervention on the Participation of Adults With Visual and Severe or Profound Intellectual Disabilities: A Nonrandomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hanzen Gineke , Waninge Aly , van Nispen Ruth M. A. , Vlaskamp Carla , van der Putten Annette A. J.
Published: October 2021

Background

The “Care for Participation+” (CFP+) intervention was developed in order to change the attitudes of direct support professionals (DSPs) regarding the participation of adults with visual and severe or profound ID (VSPID).

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CFP+ on the participation of the target group.

Methods

We performed a pilot nonrandomized controlled trial with three arms. The effect of CFP+ on participation was compared to a usual care control group (n = 13), and a control group in which one element of CFP+ was implemented (n = 14). Participation was measured using specific domains of the Quality Of Life of People with Profound Multiple Disabilities (QOL‐PMD) questionnaire that was completed by the legal representatives and DSPs of adults with VSPID, and video‐observations of (initiatives for prompting) active involvement within 10 dyads comprising adults with VSPID and DSPs.

Findings

The effects of CFP+ on the QOL‐PMD were very small and not statistically significant. Qualitative analyses showed that in the CFP+ group, active involvement in activities of adults with VSPID and number of DSPs' initiatives to stimulate active involvement exceeded those within the two control groups.

Discussion

CFP+ has positive effects on the active involvement of individuals with VSPID and on DSPs' initiatives to enhance this involvement. The unexpected small effects of CFP+ on the participation of these adults could be explained by several factors such as small sample size, ceiling effects, response shift, changes in the control group, and implementation barriers. Accordingly, the most effective elements of CFP+ could be further developed and investigated in combination with an improved implementation strategy.
Low total abundances and a predominance of n‐ω‐amino acids in enstatite chondrites: Implications for thermal stability of amino acids in the inner solar system
Authors: Simkus Danielle N. , Aponte José C. , Elsila Jamie E. , McLain Hannah L. , Parker Eric T. , Dworkin Jason P. , Glavin Daniel P.
Published: October 2021

Investigating the organic contents of enstatite chondrite meteorites may offer insights into both early inner solar system and early Earth chemistry. Enstatite chondrite meteorites have highly reduced and anhydrous compositions, and their bulk isotopic compositions closely resemble terrestrial values, suggesting that their parent body asteroids accreted within the inner protoplanetary disk and were a primary contributor during Earth’s late accretion (Javoy, 1995; Piani et al., 2020). Here, we present the first report of amino acids in enstatite chondrite meteorite samples. Three EH3 meteorites were analyzed (Dominion Range [DOM] 14021, Larkman Nunatak [LAR] 12001, and Larkman Nunatak 06252). The acid‐hydrolyzed water extracts of the meteorites contained low abundances (1.5–215.9 pmol g−1) of n‐ω‐amino acids (glycine, β‐alanine, γ‐amino‐n‐butyric acid [γ‐ABA], δ‐amino‐n‐valeric acid [δ‐AVA], and ε‐amino‐n‐caproic acid [ε‐ACA]), but amino acids were not present above detection limits in the nonhydrolyzed samples. The low amino acid abundances and the predominance of n‐ω‐amino acids resemble amino acid distributions previously observed for thermally altered chondrites. These results suggest that the parent body asteroid was not conducive to the synthesis and/or preservation of α‐amino acids, or free amino acids in general, and that EH3 chondrite‐like material may not have been a primary contributor of diverse or abundant free amino acids to the early Earth.
Recent speciation and hybridization in Icelandic deep‐sea isopods: An integrative approach using genomics and proteomics
Authors: Paulus Eva , Brix Saskia , Siebert Annabelle , Martínez Arbizu Pedro , Rossel Sven , Peters Janna , Svavarsson Jörundur , Schwentner Martin
Published: October 2021

The crustacean marine isopod species Haploniscus bicuspis (Sars, 1877) shows circum‐Icelandic distribution in a wide range of environmental conditions and along well‐known geographic barriers, such as the Greenland‐Iceland‐Faroe (GIF) Ridge. We wanted to explore population genetics, phylogeography and cryptic speciation as well as investigate whether previously described, but unaccepted subspecies have any merit. Using the same set of specimens, we combined mitochondrial COI sequences, thousands of nuclear loci (ddRAD), and proteomic profiles, plus selected morphological characters using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Five divergent genetic lineages were identified by COI and ddRAD, two south and three north of the GIF Ridge. Assignment of populations to the three northern lineages varied and detailed analyses revealed hybridization and gene flow between them, suggesting a single northern species with a complex phylogeographic history. No apparent hybridization was observed among lineages south of the GIF Ridge, inferring the existence of two more species. Differences in proteomic profiles between the three putative species were minimal, implying an ongoing or recent speciation process. Population differentiation was high, even among closely associated populations, and higher in mitochondrial COI than nuclear ddRAD loci. Gene flow is apparently male‐biased, leading to hybrid zones and instances of complete exchange of the local nuclear genome through immigrating males. This study did not confirm the existence of subspecies defined by male characters, which probably instead refer to different male developmental stages.
Detecting supraventricular tachycardia with smartwatches facilitates the decision for catheter ablation: A case series
Authors: Wu Shang‐Ju , Li Cheng‐Hung , Lin Jiunn‐Cherng , Weng Chi‐Jen , Lin Wei‐Wen , Hsieh Yu‐Cheng
Published: October 2021

Smartwatch allows easy detection of arrhythmia. Such an approach is widely used for detecting atrial fibrillation. However, there has been no consensus on the diagnostic power of smartwatch‐detected supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). We reported three patients of SVT presenting with infrequent palpitations. Their SVTs were not documented with single‐lead or standard ECG in hospital before, but only recorded by the single‐lead ECG on smartwatches. Electrophysiological studies confirmed the mechanisms of these SVTs and led to successful catheter ablations. In conclusion, in patients with recurrent symptomatic tachycardia and a smartwatch‐detected SVT, an electrophysiological study is indicated rather than to wait for a standard ECG for clinical decision. This approach might prevent the delay for successful treatment.
Proteomic profiling of Arachis hypogaea in response to drought stress and overexpression of AhLEA2 improves drought tolerance
Authors: Li C. , Yan C. , Sun Q. , Wang J. , Yuan C. , Mou Y. , Shan S. , Zhao X.
Published: October 2021

Drought is the main factor restricting peanut growth, but the molecular mechanism underlying peanut drought tolerance remains unclear.

Herein, the seedling stage of drought‐resistant peanut cultivar J11 was subjected to drought stress, and its proteomic profile was systematically analysed by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ), the results of which were further complemented with our previous transcriptome results.

A total of 4,018 proteins were identified by proteomic analysis, which revealed that the expression levels of 69 proteins were altered under drought stress. Among the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), 50 were upregulated, and 19 were downregulated. The most enriched metabolic pathways for these DEPs were those involving phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, and plant hormone signal transduction. The proteomic data and previous transcriptome results revealed 44 groups of genes/proteins with the same expression trend, including a LEA (Late embryogenesis abundant) gene, AhLEA2. Our present study showed that overexpression of the AhLEA2 gene enhanced the drought resistance of transgenic Arabidopsis plants, and the activities of related antioxidant enzymes in the transgenic plants significantly changed. The AhLEA2 gene was found to be located in the cytoplasm and cell membrane by subcellular localization experiments.

This work systematically analysed the differentially expressed proteins in peanut in response to drought stress, providing important candidates for further functional analysis of the stress response of peanut. Our results also indicated that AhLEA2 plays an important role in the peanut response to drought stress.
Defence against Bremia lactucae conferred by the resistance gene Dm7 in lettuce is broken by treatment with dichloroisonicotinic acid
Authors: Oikonomou Adriana , Bennett Mark H. , Parker Adam A. H. , Ton Jurriaan , Mansfield John W.
Published: October 2021

The effect of inducers of systemic acquired resistance, dichloroisonicotinic acid (DCINA) and acibenzolar‐S‐methyl (BION), on compatible interactions between Bremia lactucae and lettuce were examined using a detached cotyledon infection assay. Treatment with both activators caused a reduction in sporulation on susceptible cultivars Cobham Green challenged with isolate CL9W and Diana inoculated with isolate Tv, with DCINA being more effective than BION on an equimolar basis. Unexpectedly, treatment with both compounds suppressed the resistance conferred by the Dm7 gene in cv. Diana challenged by isolate CL9W (A7). The frequency of sporulation was greatly increased by DCINA in the incompatible interaction. The suppression of defence was associated with a delay in the onset of the Dm7‐based hypersensitive reaction as indicated by the extended viability of penetrated epidermal cells, and reductions in both the accumulation of the phytoalexin lettucenin A and the deposition of autofluorescent phenolics such as syringaldehyde on plant and oomycete cell walls. The analysis of DCINA homologues indicated that 2‐chloroisonicotinic acid was as effective as the dichloro‐derivative in suppressing resistance in cv. Diana, whereas the absence of the carboxyl group rendered 2,6‐dichloropyridine inactive. Infection of cotyledons by Botrytis cinerea was also found to be enhanced by DCINA treatment. Based on our results, we discuss the possibility that DCINA reduces Dm7 transcription through an epigenetic mechanism, as is supported by bioinformatic analyses of the resistance gene, and that it suppresses jasmonate‐dependent resistance to B. cinerea.
Contributions to a Phenomenology of Historical Experience
Authors: Rossi Tobia
Published: October 2021

In this article, I propose a phenomenological account of historical experience, aimed at showing how people directly experience an event as being historical. After examining the only previous phenomenological account, David Carr’s Experience and History, and exploring its limits, I present my own contributions. My analysis focuses on the features of three main concepts or “moments”: eventfulness, substantiality, and narrativity. Considering the transcendent character of historical experience in the moment of eventfulness brings three features to light: initial incomprehensibility, need for categorization, and memorability. The concept of “substantiality,” on the other hand, shows how a historical event is felt as a moment of change. History is perceived as a structure shaping a community and whose unity seems irremediably shattered. Three features of historical change are explored: threatened identity, broken temporality, and emphasized belongingness. Lastly, I look at the decisive role of the gradual transformation of past beliefs and expectations as it occurs “narratively,” revealing a further two features of historical experience: narrative justifications and uncertain new normativity. Dealing narratively with a historical event means providing justifications for how it constitutes a new configuration of practices and ideas foreshadowing the now uncertain future.
Validating a student assessment of mathematical modeling at elementary school level
Authors: Turner Erin E. , Chen Mei‐Kuang , Roth McDuffie Amy , Smith James E. , Aguirre Julia , Foote Mary Q. , Bennett Amy Been
Published: October 2021

While research suggests that mathematical modeling is accessible to elementary grade students, questions remain about how to assess modeling competency. Our research addresses this need through the systemic design and empirical testing of a Mathematical Modeling Student Assessment (MMSA) for elementary grades 3 through 5. Research questions focus on validity evidence for the MMSA based on test content, response process, internal structure, and relationship to other variables, as well as reliability evidence. Data sources included student interviews, MMSA post assessments and state level standardized assessments. We paid particular attention to evidence of internal structure to understand the extent to which a holistic versus an atomistic conceptualization of mathematical modeling competency was empirically supported by the data. We found that MMSA items provided sufficient coverage to provide accurate information about a range of modeling competencies. The MMSA had high reliability and low standard error for average modeling competency which supports its use for grades 3 to 5. Correlations between MMSA trait‐level estimates and standardized assessment scores indicate the MMSA captures overlapping but distinct competencies specific to modeling. We discuss implications for teaching modeling and directions for future research on the development of modeling assessments in the elementary grades.
The Myth of Epistemic Implicata
Authors: Sander Thorsten
Published: October 2021

Quite a few scholars claim that many implicata are propositions about the speaker's epistemic or doxastic states. I argue, on the contrary, that implicata are generally non‐epistemic. Some alleged cases of epistemic implicature are not implicatures in the first place because they do not meet Grice's non‐triviality requirement, and epistemic implicata in general would infringe on the maxim of quantity. Epistemic implicatures ought to be construed as members of a larger family of implicature‐like phenomena.