bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ribosomal protein uS3 in cell biology and human disease: Latest insights and prospects
Authors: Graifer Dmitri , Karpova Galina
Published: November 2020

The conserved ribosomal protein uS3 in eukaryotes has long been known as one of the essential components of the small (40S) ribosomal subunit, which is involved in the structure of the 40S mRNA entry pore, ensuring the functioning of the 40S subunit during translation initiation. Besides, uS3, being outside the ribosome, is engaged in various cellular processes related to DNA repair, NF‐kB signaling pathway and regulation of apoptosis. This review is devoted to recent data opening new horizons in understanding the roles of uS3 in such processes as the assembly and maturation of 40S subunits, ensuring proper structure of 48S pre‐initiation complexes, regulation of initiation and ribosome‐based RNA quality control pathways. Besides, we summarize novel results on the participation of the protein in processes beyond translation and consider biomedical implications of previously known and recently found extra‐ribosomal functions of uS3, primarily, in oncogenesis.
Determination of the concentration of gilteritinib in human plasma using HPLC
Authors: Yasu Takeo , Sugi Tomiyuki , Momo Kenji , Hagihara Masao , Yasui Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

Gilteritinib, an oral inhibitor of FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), is a standard treatment for FLT3‐mutated acute myeloid leukemia. We developed a simple HPLC‐UV‐based method for determining the concentration of gilteritinib in human plasma. The analysis requires the extraction of a 200‐μL plasma sample and the precipitation of proteins by solid‐phase extraction. Gilteritinib was isocratically separated within 10 min using a mobile phase of acetonitrile:0.5% monopotassium phosphate (KH2PO4, pH 3.5, 28:72, v/v) on a Capcell Pack C18 MG II (250 × 4.6 mm) column at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and monitored at 250 nm. The calibration curve was found to be linear within a plasma concentration range of 25–2500 ng/mL, with the coefficient of determination (r2) being 0.9997. The coefficients of intra‐day and inter‐day validation were 2.3–3.7 and 1.3–5.2%, respectively. The accuracy and recovery of the assay were −9.6 to 0.1 and >81.8%, respectively. This HPLC‐UV method for determining the plasma concentration of gilteritinib is simple and can be effectively applied to routine drug monitoring.
Resting‐state default mode network connectivity in young individuals with Down syndrome
Authors: Figueroa‐Jimenez María Dolores , Cañete‐Massé Cristina , Carbó‐Carreté María , Zarabozo‐Hurtado Daniel , Peró‐Cebollero Maribel , Salazar‐Estrada José Guadalupe , Guàrdia‐Olmos Joan
Published: November 2020

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal disorder that causes intellectual disability. Few studies have been conducted on functional connectivity using resting‐state fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) signals or more specifically, on the relevant structure and density of the default mode network (DMN). Although data on this issue have been reported in adult DS individuals (age: >45 years), the DMN properties in young DS individuals have not been studied. The aim of this study was to describe the density and structure of the DMN network from fMRI signals in young DS (age: <36 years).

Method

A sample of 22 young people with DS between the ages of 16 and 35 (M = 25.5 and SD = 5.1) was recruited in various centers for people with intellectual disability (ID). In addition to sociodemographic data, a six‐minute fMRI session was recorded with a 3. T Philips Ingenia scanner. A control group of 22 young people, matched by age and gender, was obtained from the Human Connectome Project (to compare the networks properties between groups).

Results

The values of the 48 ROIs that configured the DMN were obtained, and the connectivity graphs for each subject, the average connectivity graph for each group, the clustering and degree values for each ROI, and the average functional connectivity network were estimated.

Conclusions

A higher density of overactivation was identified in DS group in the ventral, sensorimotor, and visual DMN networks, although within a framework of a wide variability of connectivity patterns in comparison with the control group network. These results extend our understanding of the functional connectivity networks pattern and intrasubject variability in DS.
Atypical parkinsonian syndromes in a North African tertiary referral center
Authors: Nasri Amina , Ben Djebara Mouna , Sghaier Ikram , Mrabet Saloua , Zidi Sabrina , Gargouri Amina , Kacem Imen , Gouider Riadh
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Data on epidemiology of atypical parkinsonian syndromes (APS) in North African countries are limited. Our objective was to study the epidemiological features of APS in a Tunisian population.

Methods

We conducted a 17‐year retrospective cross‐sectional descriptive study in the Department of Neurology at Razi University Hospital. We included all patients responding to consensus diagnosis criteria of APS. We recorded demographic and clinical data. Group differences were assessed with a post hoc ANOVA with a Bonferroni error correction.

Results

We included 464 APS patients. Hospital prevalence of APS among all parkinsonism cases was 20.6%. Mean annual increase of incidence defined as newly diagnosed APS cases per year reached 38.8%/year. APS were divided into 4 etiological subgroups: dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB; 56.7%); progressive supranuclear palsy(PSP; 16.2%); multiple system atrophy (MSA; 14.6%); and finally corticobasal syndrome (CBS; 12.5%). Sex‐ratio was 1.2. This male predominance was found in all subgroups except MSA (p = .013). Mean age at onset was 68.5 years, most belated in DLB (69.7 years; p < .001). Young‐onset parkinsonism (<40 years) was found only in MSA subgroup (p = .031). Parkinsonism was of late onset (>70 years) in 50.7% of patients and was significantly associated with DLB subgroup (p = .013). Inaugural parkinsonism was associated with CBS and MSA (p = .0497), and gait disorders at disease onset were associated with PSP and MSA (p = .0062). Cognitive and mood disorders were more marked in DLB and most preserved in MSA. Consanguinity was more marked in CBS (p = .037), and family history of dementia and psychiatric diseases was more common in DLB. Thirty‐seven families with similar cases of APS were identified.

Conclusions

This is the largest African epidemiological study on APS. In our population, APS were frequent and dominated by DLB. The age of onset of parkinsonism was the most decisive feature for differential diagnosis.
Big East Conference announces BE the Change
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: November 2020

The Big East Conference launched BE the Change, a conferencewide advocacy platform aimed at engaging people on issues of racial and social justice, in early July. BE the Change is part of a broader Big East campaign, A Call to Action on Anti‐Racism and Social Justice, created to spotlight ways to combat racial inequality. The conference has three diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic priorities: education, diversity in hiring, and awareness/advocacy.
On the use of computer‐assistance to facilitate systematic mapping
Authors: Haddaway Neal R. , Callaghan Max W. , Collins Alexandra M. , Lamb William F. , Minx Jan C. , Thomas James , John Denny
Published: November 2020

The volume of published academic research is growing rapidly and this new era of “big literature” poses new challenges to evidence synthesis, pushing traditional, manual methods of evidence synthesis to their limits. New technology developments, including machine learning, are likely to provide solutions to the problem of information overload and allow scaling of systematic maps to large and even vast literatures. In this paper, we outline how systematic maps lend themselves well to automation and computer‐assistance. We believe that it is a major priority to consolidate efforts to develop and validate efficient, rigorous and robust applications of these novel technologies, ensuring the challenges of big literature do not prevent the future production of systematic maps.
Martha Kanter reflects on higher education challenges for students with disabilities
Authors: Pena Maria
Published: November 2020

Martha Kanter, former Undersecretary of Education for the U.S. Department of Education, shared her thoughts on the challenges facing disability services offices and students with disabilities — and how to address them.
Support students of color through mental health challenges
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2020

Black, Indigenous, Pacific Islander, and Latinx populations are three times as likely to die from COVID‐19 as white neighbors, and populations of color are experiencing greater rates of anxiety, depression, and mental health concerns than white peers as well. Those findings come from a report issued by The Steve Fund, a national advocacy organization focused on the mental health of college and university students of color. The report also includes a plethora of suggestions for those who work in higher education to support their population of students of color who are currently facing mental health challenges.
Predicting the actual location of faults in underground optical networks using linear regression
Authors: Nyarko‐Boateng Owusu , Adekoya Adebayo Felix , Weyori Benjamin Asubam
Published: November 2020

Optical cables are enormous transmission media that carry high‐speed data across transatlantic, intercontinental, international boundaries, and cities. The optical cable is essential in data communication. The cable has become an indispensable component in optical communications infrastructure; hence, conscious efforts are always adopted to prevent or minimize faults in the optical network infrastructure. Typically, tracing fault in the underground optical network has been difficult even though the optical time‐domain reflectometer (OTDR) has been used to measure the distance of faults in the underground fiber cable. The methodologies deployed in the reviewed literature indicate a vast gap between the fault distance measured by the OTDR and the actual distance of fault. This paper observed the difficulties involved in tracing the actual spot of fault in the underground optical networks. The difficulty of tracing these underground faults mostly result in an undue delay and loss of revenue. This research presents a machine learning approach to predict the actual location of a fiber cable fault in an underground optical transmission link. Linear regression in the python sci‐kit learn library was used to predict the actual location of a fault in an underground optical network. The mean square error and MAE evaluation matrix used provided good accuracy results of 0.061291 and 0.080143, respectively. The result obtained in this paper indicates that faults in underground optical networks can be found quickly to avoid the delays in the fault tracing process, which leads to an excessive revenue loss.
In vitro and in vivo Anti‐Toxoplasma activity of Dracocephalum kotschyi essential oil
Authors: Khamesipour Faham , Razavi Seyed Mostafa , Hejazi Seyed Hossein , Ghanadian Seyed Mustafa
Published: November 2020

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite of worldwide importance, responsible for toxoplasmosis in homeotherms. Although treatment options are readily available, most drugs often cause serious side effects. Extracts of Dracocephalum kotschyi (D. kotschyi) have shown significant pharmacological activity against various parasites, viruses, and bacteria. In this study, we evaluated the anti‐T. gondii activity in vitro and in vivo of D. kotschyi essential oil. The thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method was used to assess the anti‐T. gondii activity and cytotoxicity of the essential oil. The presence of T. gondii was observed by Giemsa staining, and the viability was evaluated by the trypan blue staining method. Furthermore, the survival rate of acutely infected mice was evaluated by intraperitoneal injecting of the essential oil (50, 100, and 200 mg kg−1 day−1) for five days after infection with 2 × 104 tachyzoites. Essential oil, negative, and positive controls that showed the best toxoplasmacidal activity were assayed in triplicate at each concentration. The essential oil exhibited the highest anti‐Toxoplasma activity with a half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 9.94 ± 0.38 µg, with a selectivity index of 2.463. On Vero cells, the CC50 of the oil was 24.49 ± 0.96 µg and exhibited a significant anti‐Toxoplasma activity. Moreover, the treatment by essential oil significantly increased the survival rate compared to untreated infected control. In conclusion, the essential oil might be a useful compound, and with more testing, it may be an excellent alternative to standard chemical drugs in the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
Fingerprinting hydrological and biogeochemical drivers of freshwater quality
Authors: Heathwaite Ann Louise , Bieroza Magdalena
Published: November 2020

Understanding the interplay between hydrological flushing and biogeochemical cycling in streams is now possible owing to advances in high‐frequency water quality measurements with in situ sensors. It is often assumed that storm events are periods when biogeochemical processes become suppressed and longitudinal transport of solutes and particulates dominates. However, high‐frequency data show that diel cycles are a common feature of water quality time series and can be preserved during storm events, especially those of low‐magnitude. In this study, we mine a high‐frequency dataset and use two key hydrochemical indices, hysteresis and flushing index to evaluate the diversity of concentration‐discharge relationships in third order agricultural stream. We show that mobilization patterns, inferred from the hysteresis index, change on a seasonal basis, with a predominance of rapid mobilization from surface and near stream sources during winter high‐magnitude storm events and of delayed mobilization from subsurface sources during summer low‐magnitude storm events. Using dynamic harmonic regression, we were able to separate concentration signals during storm events into hydrological flushing (using trend as a proxy) and biogeochemical cycling (using amplitude of a diel cycle as a proxy). We identified three groups of water quality parameters depending on their typical c‐q response: flushing dominated parameters (phosphorus and sediments), mixed flushing and cycling parameters (nitrate nitrogen, specific conductivity and pH) and cycling dominated parameters (dissolved oxygen, redox potential and water temperature). Our results show that despite large storm to storm diversity in hydrochemical responses, storm event magnitude and timing have a critical role in controlling the type of mobilization, flushing and cycling behaviour of each water quality constituent. Hydrochemical indices can be used to fingerprint the effect of hydrological disturbance on freshwater quality and can be useful in determining the impacts of global change on stream ecology.
Farmers can substantially deploy irrigation potential through improved management environment: enabling factors of farmers' involvement in resource‐efficient irrigation management
Authors: Salman Maher , Fertő Imre , Alobid Mohannad , Pék Éva
Published: November 2020

The poor performance of government‐managed irrigation systems still spills over into developing countries despite numerous attempts to improve efficiency through management transfer to farmers. Weak engagement of farmers in management is identified as one of the underlying causes of poor performance. The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors determining farmers' engagement in irrigation management in the Mubuku smallholder scheme, Uganda. The paper presents an assessment of the governing institutions through a qualitative method and a quantitative analysis to identify enabling factors of famers' engagement in management. As results, the paper argues that the current institutional setting of the scheme is only partially in line with predefined principles of self‐governing irrigation schemes. Farmers are not considered as creating a two‐tiered management structure due to the weak enforcement mechanism towards free‐riders, insufficient monitoring of resources and activities, lack of effective means of conflict resolution, an underdeveloped de facto institution and lack of organizational layers. Based on a farmers' survey, the outputs of semi‐parametric (SML) and semi‐non‐parametric (SNP) models indicate that education and household size have a significant and positive impact on farmers' engagement in management, while land size large enough to require employees has a negative and significant impact on engagement.
Effect of Single Versus Multiple Fractures on Systemic Bone Loss in Mice
Authors: Zhang Chenggui , Zhu Junxiong , Jia Jialin , Guan Zhiyuan , Sun Tiantong , Zhang Wang , Yuan Wanqiong , Wang Hong , Leng Huijie , Song Chunli
Published: November 2020

Systemic bone loss after initial fracture contributes to an increased risk of secondary fracture. Clinical research has revealed an association between the risk of future fracture and the number or magnitude of prior fractures. However, the change in systemic bone mass after single versus multiple fractures is unknown. We used ipsilateral femur and tibia fractures as multiple fractures and a femur or tibia fracture as a single fracture to investigate the influence of single versus multiple fractures on systemic bone mass. Seventy-two adult male C57BL/6J mice underwent transverse osteotomies of the ipsilateral femur and/or tibia with subsequent internal fixation. The dynamic change of in vivo whole-body BMD was assessed at 4 days, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks after fracture. The microstructure of the L5 vertebral body and contralateral femur was assessed using micro-CT (μCT) and biomechanical tests (vertebral compression test and three-point bending test) at 2 and 4 weeks. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, sequential fluorescence labeling, and systemic inflammatory cytokines were also quantified. A greater decrease in whole-body BMD was observed after multiple than single fractures. The trabecular bone volume fraction, trabecular number, and trabecular thickness of the L5 vertebral body were significantly reduced. There were no significant differences in cortical thickness, trabecular bone microstructure, or bone strength in the contralateral femur. At 4 days and 2 weeks, we observed significant increases in the serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. We also observed an increase in the osteoclast number of the L5 vertebral body at 4 days. These data indicate that systemic bone loss might increase with the number or severity of prior fractures, and the mechanism may be partly associated with an increased osteoclast number and a more severe inflammatory response. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
An investigation of resurgence of reinforced behavioral variability in humans
Authors: Galizio Ann , Friedel Jonathan E. , Odum Amy L.
Published: November 2020

The present study examined resurgence of reinforced variability in college students, who completed a 3‐phase computer‐based variability task. In the first phase, baseline, points were delivered for drawing rectangles that sufficiently differed from previous rectangles in terms of a target dimension (size or location, counterbalanced) but were sufficiently similar in terms of the alternative dimension. In the second phase, alternative, points were only delivered for rectangles that were sufficiently different in terms of the alternative dimension, but repetitive in terms of the target dimension. In the third phase, extinction, no points were delivered. In baseline, participants made rectangles that were highly varied in terms of the target dimension and less varied in terms of the alternative dimension, and vice versa in the alternative phase. During extinction, levels of variability increased for the target dimension, providing evidence for resurgence of reinforced variability of a specific dimension of behavior. However, levels of variability also remained high for the alternative dimension, indicating that extinction‐induced response variability may also have impacted the results. Although future research is needed to explore other explanations, the results of this study replicate prior research with pigeons and provide some support for the notion of variability as an operant.
Forty‐Fourth ASPEN Presidential Address: The 2020 Overture—A New Tune for the Future
Authors: Chan Lingtak‐Neander
Published: November 2020

The provision of safe nutrition care to patients is the fundamental vision of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN). Yet we are facing important challenges in our field and society, requiring us to reflect, rethink, and adjust to make new breakthroughs to meet the needs for the future. In developing new plans to address these challenges, we must focus on 2 critical elements: people and the scientific process. Government and organizations cannot carry on their missions without people. But with the challenges of healthcare finance, biotechnology disruption, the desire to facilitate knowledge transfer and now the impact of the global pandemic, we need to develop a forward‐thinking and sustainable approach to connect people and foster continued learning. Burnout is a recognized occupational problem that affects providers and researchers across all disciplines. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has amplified the challenges associated with burnout. Supporting the needs and promoting the well‐being of people, therefore, are critical to move forward successfully. At the same time, the scientific advances in our field rely on sound scientific principles and integrity. Information overload, pressure to produce immediate outcomes (such as cost‐saving initiatives), and misinformation can compromise the scientific process and research evidence. The two common missteps that affect researchers, clinicians, and administrators include premature factulation and binary thinking. We will discuss how these missteps can occur and the approaches to minimize their influence in making sound decisions and policies to meet the future's needs.
Clinical Swallowing Profile Change in HNC Patients Treated with C/RT
Authors: Im Ikjae , Carnaby Giselle D. , Takahashi Noriaki , Dungan Sarah , Crary Michael A.
Published: November 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To demonstrate utility of the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability‐Cancer (MASA‐C) to describe change in swallowing ability in a cohort of HNC patients from pre‐C/RT to post‐C/RT to follow up at 3 months post‐C/RT. An exploratory analysis compared patients treated with radiotherapy (RT) only to patients treated with chemoradiation (CRT).

Study Design

Prospective Cohort.

Methods

The MASA‐C and Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) were completed on 85 HNC patients within the first 5 days of CRT initiation, at the completion of C/RT (6 weeks), and 3 months after completion of C/RT. MASA‐C total scores and clinical profiles were used to describe change in swallowing performance at each time point.

Results

MASA‐C and FOIS scores were significantly lower at 6 weeks and 3 months compared to baseline. Patients treated with CRT demonstrated more frequent and more severe dysphagia. Post C/RT items demonstrating the most deterioration included taste, diet level, oral mucosa, saliva, weight loss, and pharyngeal functions. Significant recovery was observed between 6 weeks and 3 months on both the MASA‐C and FOIS. MASA‐C items revealing the greatest recovery included taste, diet level, oral mucosa, tongue movement, weight loss, oral transit, voice, and pharyngeal phase. Few significant differences were noted between RT and CRT cases at 3 months.

Conclusions

Swallowing functions deteriorate significantly following C/RT with incomplete recovery at 3 months. Few differences were noted between RT and CRT treated patients at 3 months. Clinical profiling with the MASA‐C provides a standard, simple method to document swallow function change over time in these patients.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 131:E1873–E1880, 2021
Predictors of Completion of Sublingual Immunotherapy
Authors: Hura Nanki , Song Sophia , Kamil Rebecca J. , Pierre Gerdline , Lin Sandra Y.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) has emerged as an effective treatment alternative to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) given its improved safety profile and more convenient dosing. However, SLIT still relies on daily dosing for many years to optimize effectiveness. This study sought to investigate factors that influence patient completion of SLIT.

Methods

We performed an institutional retrospective review of patients who received SLIT (2008–2020). Completion was defined as completing at least 36 months of SLIT. Patient demographics and characteristics, including the number of allergens treated, history of asthma and sinus surgery, number of clinic visits, and total time undergoing SLIT, were documented. Multivariate models were used to analyze predictors of SLIT completion. Subgroup analysis was performed among pediatric patients and patients who discontinued SLIT.

Results

Of the 404 total patients, 249 (61.6%) discontinued, 47 (11.6%) completed, and 108 (26.7%) were currently undergoing SLIT. The mean duration of therapy was 11.2 months for those who discontinued and 49.4 months for patients who completed SLIT. The odds of SLIT completion were twice as high with each additional clinic visit (P < .001), and twice as high when the dosage was increased during therapy (P = .06). Pediatric patients younger than age 12 with a history of asthma were over five times more likely to complete therapy (P = .045). Patients with more clinic visits (P < .001) and higher associated costs (P = .003) were less likely to be lost to follow‐up.

Conclusion

Increasing the frequency of clinic visits, improving therapy availability, and mitigating concerns about clinical efficacy may increase patient completion of SLIT.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2111–E2115, 2021
Change in surgeon for revision rhinoplasty: The impact of patient demographics and surgical technique on patient retention
Authors: Crawford Kayva L. , Lee Jason H. , Panuganti Bharat A. , Burton Brittany N. , Jafari Aria , Hom David B. , Watson Deborah
Published: November 2020

Objectives

A subset of patients who require revision rhinoplasty will change surgeons for their second procedure. We sought to investigate the rate of surgeon change and identify associated predictors using a population‐based, ambulatory surgery database.

Methods/study design

In this retrospective review, 9172 rhinoplasty procedures over a 5‐year period were analyzed using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Florida State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Database (SASD). We identified 380 patients who had at least two rhinoplasty procedures between 2009 and 2014. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of patients changing surgeons for their second documented rhinoplasty.

Results

Among the 380/8531 (4.4%) patients who underwent a revision rhinoplasty, 117/380 (30.8%) patients changed surgeons for their subsequent procedure within a 5‐year period. Multivariable logistic regression identified a lower likelihood of surgeon change in patients undergoing functional or cosmetic cartilage grafting procedures (OR 0.342, 95%CI 0.155‐0.714, P = .006) and in patients who self‐paid for their procedure (OR 0.476, 95%CI 0.225‐0.984, P = .048). One hundred twenty‐four patients underwent a cosmetic revision rhinoplasty and were twice as likely to change surgeons as those who underwent functional revision rhinoplasty (OR 2.042 95%CI 1.046‐4.050, P = .038). Time elapsed (>2 years) was positively correlated with likelihood of surgeon change (OR 1.236, 95%CI 1.153‐1.333, P < .001).

Conclusion

In our analysis, 30.8% of patients changed surgeons for their revision rhinoplasty. Cartilage grafting at the time of index procedure and cash payment correlated with a decreased likelihood of surgeon change. Patients were more likely to change surgeons with increased time elapsed or for an aesthetic revision. Clarifying features associated with surgeon change may help improve patient satisfaction and retention.
A functional learning health system in Japan: Experience with processes and information infrastructure toward continuous health improvement
Authors: Soejima Hidehisa , Matsumoto Kautarou , Nakashima Naoki , Nohara Yasunobu , Yamashita Takanori , Machida Jiro , Nakaguma Hideki
Published: November 2020

Introduction and definition of the term Learning Health System (LHS) appears to have occurred initially around 2007. Prior to this and the introduction of electronic health records (EHR), a predecessor could be found in the Clinical Pathways concept as a standard medical care plan and a tool to improve medical quality. Since 1997, Japan's Saiseikai Kumamoto Hospital (SKH) has been studying and implementing Clinical Pathways. In 2010, they implemented EHR, which facilitated the collection of structured data in common templates that aligned with outcome measurements defined through Japan's Society of Clinical Pathways. For each patient at this hospital, variances from the desired outcomes have been recorded, producing volumes of structured data in formats that could readily be aggregated and analyzed. A visualization tool was introduced to display graphs on the home page of the EHR such that each patient can be compared to similar patients. Knowledge learned from patient care is shared regularly through Clinical Pathways meetings that are supported by all staff within the hospital. The SKH experience over the past two decades is worth exploring further in the context of the development of a fully functional LHS and the attributes/characteristics thereof. In this report, the SKH experience and processes are compared with previously published attributes of a fully functional LHS (ie, characteristics of an LHS that can indicate maturity). Specific examples of the SKH system are detailed with respect to leveraging knowledge gained to change performance that improves patient care as prescribed by learning health cycles. The SKH experience and its information infrastructure and culture exemplify a functional LHS, which is now being expanded to additional hospitals with the hope that it can be scaled and serve as a solid platform for measures aimed at improving medical care, thus establishing broader and more global learning health systems.
Electrochemical approaches towards sensing viruses: A mini review
Authors: Santhanam Kalathur S. V.
Published: November 2020

This mini review focusses the development of electrochemical sensors for a variety of viruses, for example, West Nile virus, dengue (DENV‐2, DENV‐3, DENV‐4), human phenotypes, H5N1, human norovirus, Japanese encephalitis (JEV), diarrhoea virus and rotavirus. These sensors are classified into four types based on Faradaic current measurement, impedance, conductivity and the current flow in a field effect transistor. While the first two have been well investigated, the latter two albeit in preliminary stages show great promise. Their simplicity, precision, sensitivity and rapid analysis make them valuable over conventional methods. The Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) can be assayed in 20 min with detection limit of 1 pg/ml. The combination of biology with chemistry and material science could be utilized to develop disposable sensors for the rapid detection of SARS‐CoV‐2, a virus that has caused havoc around the globe.
Longitudinal measurement invariance and stability of individual interest across a 16‐week introductory animal sciences course
Authors: Erickson MaryGrace , Wattiaux Michel A. , Karcher Elizabeth L.
Published: November 2020

Educators often compare quantitative scores on motivational traits across time (e.g., pre‐ and post‐semester), yet few studies have examined the longitudinal measurement equivalence of such traits or described typical trajectories. Our research explored the longitudinal measurement of individual interest in two cohorts of an introductory animal sciences course across four measurement occasions during a 16‐week semester. First, we modified an existing individual interest scale and validated it within our population (CFI = 1.00, SRMR = .02, RMSEA = .05). Second, we established partial scalar invariance across measurement occasions through nested model comparisons. Third, we described the trajectory of individual interest with latent growth curve models (LGCM). Individual interest started high for both cohorts (intercepts = 65.02, 61.06 on a scale from 0 [low] to 70 [high] for Fall 2018 and Spring 2019, respectively). Individual interest followed a curvilinear pattern in Fall 2018; however, no significant shape trends described Spring 2019 data. Overall, our results show that individual interest can be measured equivalently across a semester; however, it follows heterogenous trajectories. Further research is needed to improve the sensitivity of individual interest scales within high‐interest populations and relate heterogenous interest trajectories to classroom experiences.
The role of alumni in international recruiting
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: November 2020

Anyone working in higher education today knows international recruiting and admissions have changed, and in all likelihood will be changed forever.
Pandemic opportunities lead to largest, most diverse graduate enrollment yet
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2020

When COVID‐19 hit the nation and courses were forced into online learning, the J. Mack Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University had a secret weapon to offer students. “Sometimes it's better to be lucky than it is to be smart,” Richard D. Phillips, Ph.D., Dean of the J. Mack Robinson College of Business, said. Months before the COVID‐19 pandemic, GSU had started work on a new classroom facility located in downtown Atlanta, which included a suite of high‐end digitally enabled classrooms with high‐end simulcast capabilities to stream lectures. “The goal 18 months ago was just to make it easy for students at their desk at five o'clock to decide where and how they want to participate that day,” Phillips said.
A joint industry‐sponsored data monitoring committee model for observational, retrospective drug safety studies in the real‐world setting
Authors: Major‐Pedersen Atheline , McCullen Mary Kate , Sabol Mary Elizabeth , Adetunji Omolara , Massaro Joseph , Neugut Alfred I. , Sosa Julie Ann , Hollenberg Anthony N.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To share better practice in establishing data monitoring committees (DMCs) for observational, retrospective safety studies with joint‐industry sponsorship.

Methods

A DMC model was created to monitor data from an observational, retrospective, post‐authorization safety study investigating risk of medullary thyroid cancer in patients treated with long‐acting glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (LA GLP‐1RAs) (NCT01511393). Sponsors reviewed regulatory guidelines, best practice and sponsors' standard operation procedures on DMCs. Discussions were held within the four‐member consortium, assessing applicability to observational, retrospective, real‐world studies. A DMC charter was drafted based on a sponsor‐proposed, adapted DMC model. Thereafter, a kick‐off meeting between sponsors and DMC members was held to receive DMC input and finalize the charter.

Results

Due to this study's observational, retrospective nature, assuring participant safety – central for traditional explanatory clinical trial models – was not applicable to our DMC model. The overall strategy and key indication for our real‐world model included preserving study integrity and credibility. Therefore, DMC member independence and their contribution of expert knowledge were essential. To ensure between‐sponsor data confidentiality, all study committees/corporations and sponsors, besides the DMC, received blinded data only (adapted to refer to data blinding that revealed the specific marketed LA GLP‐1RA/sponsor). Communication and blinding/unblinding of these data were facilitated by the contract research organization, which also provided crucial operational oversight.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, we have established the first DMC model for joint industry‐sponsored, observational, retrospective safety studies. This model could serve as a precedent for others performing similar post‐marketing, joint industry‐sponsored pharmacovigilance activities.
New N – heterocyclic mono – and disilavinylidene iron – complexes by density functional theory
Authors: Soleimani Purlak Nahid , Kassaee Mohamad Z.
Published: November 2020

Recently, we found less nucleophilicity (N) for normally and abnormally disubstituted Arduengo‐type monosilylenes [R2N4Si:] (1–10) than their corresponding disilavinylidene ligands [R2N4SiSi:] (1′–10′). Considering the importance of silylene–iron complexes, here we compare and contrast thermodynamic properties of their novel [R2N4Si: → Fe(N(SiH3)2)2] (1c–10c) and [R2N4SiSi: → Fe(N(SiH3)2)2] iron complexes (1′c–10′c), for R = H, Me, ethyl, i‐propyl, and t‐butyl, at B3LYP/6‐311++G**+ LANL2DZ level of theory. Isodesmic reactions show higher stability for disilavinylidenes 1′c–10′c compared with their corresponding monosilylene 1c–10c. In all species, the natural bond orbital (NBO) calculations show transfer of charge from the silylene (of the ligand) to iron(II). Multiple Fe–Si bonding character is detected in all complexes (Wiberg bond index > 1). Yet Fe–Si bond distances in 1′c–10′c appear shorter than those in their corresponding 1c–10c. Binding energy (ΔEbin) of [Fe(N(SiH3)2)2] with 1′–10′ appears higher in 1′c–10′c than the corresponding 1c–10c.
Electrical and reaction performances of packed‐bed plasma reactors moderated with ferroelectric or dielectric materials
Authors: Gómez‐Ramírez Ana , Álvarez Rafael , Navascués Paula , García‐García Francisco J. , Palmero Alberto , Cotrino José , González‐Elipe Agustín R.
Published: November 2020

The operational behavior of packed‐bed plasma reactors depends on the dimension, shape, and chemical properties of the pellets used as moderators, but little information exists about the influence of their specific dielectric properties. Herein, we comparatively study the electrical behavior of a packed‐bed reactor filled with pellets of either dielectric (Al2O3 and glass) or ferroelectric (BaTiO3 and lead zirconate titanate) materials. We found that plasma current was higher for ferroelectrics and presented a nonlineal dependence on voltage. Moreover, for BaTiO3, we found a drastic decrease at around its relatively low Curie temperature. Differences in electrical behavior have a direct effect on the reactor performance, as illustrated for the ammonia synthesis, demonstrating the importance of moderator material dielectric properties and their dependence on temperature.
Size, Shape, and Wavelength Effect on Photothermal Heat Elevation of Gold Nanoparticles: Absorption Coefficient Experimental Measurement
Authors: Diallo Amadou Thierno , Tlemçani Malika , Khan Memona , Spadavecchia Jolanda , Djaker Nadia
Published: November 2020

Complex‐shaped nanoparticles as gold nanourchins (GNU) and nanorods (GNR) are very suitable agents in the case of photothermal therapy due to their photon‐heat conversion ability in the red and near‐infrared region (NIR). The quantification in heat generation of complex shaped nanostructures is an important key to predict the therapeutic effect of these nanoparticles. For that, the determination of the nanoparticles absorption cross section (σAbs) responsible for the heat generation is one of the important steps before any application. Although it is obvious to determine σAbs for spheres via Mie's theory, in the case of complex structures like GNU or GNR, this parameter is difficult to model. In this work, a new methodology is used to determine experimentally σAbs for both GNU and GNR. Experimental measurements of the photothermal properties of 100 nm size GNU and two different sizes of GNRs are studied regarding different parameters such as concentration, laser excitation wavelength, and exposure time. By using the heat transfer theory, the temperature elevation in the nanoparticles solutions is converted to temperature elevation at the nanoparticles surface and σAbs values are then calculated for both GNU and GNR in the NIR spectral region.
Momentum space spinning correlators and higher spin equations in three dimensions
Authors: Jain Sachin , John Renjan Rajan , Malvimat Vinay
Published: November 2020

Abstract

In this article, we explicitly compute in momentum space the three and four-point correlation functions involving scalar and spinning operators in the free bosonic and the free fermionic theory in three dimensions. We also evaluate the five-point function of the scalar operator in the free bosonic theory. We discuss techniques which are more efficient than the usual PV reduction to evaluate one loop integrals. Our techniques can be easily generalised to momentum space correlators of complicated spinning operators and to higher point functions. The three dimensional fermionic theory has the interesting feature that the scalar operator $$ \overline{\psi}\psi $$

ψ
¯

ψ
is odd under parity. To account for this, we develop a parity odd basis which is useful to write correlation functions involving spinning operators and an odd number of $$ \overline{\psi}\psi $$

ψ
¯

ψ
operators. We further study higher spin (HS) equations in momentum space which are algebraic in nature and hence simpler than their position space counterparts. We use them to solve for three-point functions involving spinning operators without invoking conformal invariance. However, at the level of four-point functions, solving the HS equation requires additional constraints that come from conformal invariance and we could only verify that our explicit results solve the HS equation.
Searching for surface defect CFTs within AdS3
Authors: Faedo Federico , Lozano Yolanda , Petri Nicolò
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We study AdS3$$ \times {S}^3/{\mathrm{\mathbb{Z}}}_k\times {\tilde{S}}^3/{\mathrm{\mathbb{Z}}}_{k^{\prime }} $$
×

S
3

/

ℤ
k

×

S
˜

3

/

ℤ

k
′

solutions to M-theory preserving $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (0, 4) supersymmetries, arising as near-horizon limits of M2-M5 brane intersections ending on M5’-branes, with both types of five-branes placed on A-type singularities. Solutions in this class asymptote locally to AdS7$$ /{\mathrm{\mathbb{Z}}}_k\times {\tilde{S}}^3/{\mathrm{\mathbb{Z}}}_{k^{\prime }} $$
/

ℤ
k

×

S
˜

3

/

ℤ

k
′

, and can thus be interpreted as holographic duals to surface defect CFTs within the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (1, 0) 6d CFT dual to this solution. Upon reduction to Type IIA, we obtain a new class of solutions of the form AdS3× S3/ℤk× S2×Σ2 preserving (0,4) supersymmetries. We construct explicit 2d quiver CFTs dual to these solutions, describing D2-D4 surface defects embedded within the 6d (1,0) quiver CFT dual to the AdS7/ℤk solution to massless IIA. Finally, in the massive case, we show that the recently constructed AdS3× S2× CY2 solutions with $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (0, 4) supersymmetries gain a defect interpretation as surface CFTs originating from D2-NS5-D6 defects embedded within the 5d CFT dual to the Brandhuber-Oz AdS6 background.
The Aegilops ventricosa 2NvS segment in bread wheat: cytology, genomics and breeding
Authors: Gao Liangliang , Koo Dal-Hoe , Juliana Philomin , Rife Trevor , Singh Daljit , Lemes da Silva Cristiano , Lux Thomas , Dorn Kevin M. , Clinesmith Marshall , Silva Paula , Wang Xu , Spannagl Manuel , Monat Cecile , Friebe Bernd , Steuernagel Burkhard , Muehlbauer Gary J. , Walkowiak Sean , Pozniak Curtis , Singh Ravi , Stein Nils , Mascher Martin , Fritz Allan , Poland Jesse
Published: November 2020

Key message

The first cytological characterization of the 2NvS segment in hexaploid wheat; complete de novo assembly and annotation of 2NvS segment; 2NvS frequency is increasing 2NvS and is associated with higher yield.

TheAegilops ventricosa2NvS translocation segment has been utilized in breeding disease-resistant wheat crops since the early 1990s. This segment is known to possess several important resistance genes against multiple wheat diseases including root knot nematode, stripe rust, leaf rust and stem rust. More recently, this segment has been associated with resistance to wheat blast, an emerging and devastating wheat disease in South America and Asia. To date, full characterization of the segment including its size, gene content and its association with grain yield is lacking. Here, we present a complete cytological and physical characterization of this agronomically important translocation in bread wheat. We de novo assembled the 2NvS segment in two wheat varieties, ‘Jagger’ and ‘CDC Stanley,’ and delineated the segment to be approximately 33 Mb. A total of 535 high-confidence genes were annotated within the 2NvS region, with > 10% belonging to the nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (NLR) gene families. Identification of groups of NLR genes that are potentially N genome-specific and expressed in specific tissues can fast-track testing of candidate genes playing roles in various disease resistances. We also show the increasing frequency of 2NvS among spring and winter wheat breeding programs over two and a half decades, and the positive impact of 2NvS on wheat grain yield based on historical datasets. The significance of the 2NvS segment in wheat breeding due to resistance to multiple diseases and a positive impact on yield highlights the importance of understanding and characterizing the wheat pan-genome for better insights into molecular breeding for wheat improvement.
The political choreography of the Sophia robot: beyond robot rights and citizenship to political performances for the social robotics market
Authors: Parviainen Jaana , Coeckelbergh Mark
Published: November 2020

A humanoid robot named ‘Sophia’ has sparked controversy since it has been given citizenship and has done media performances all over the world. The company that made the robot, Hanson Robotics, has touted Sophia as the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Robot scientists and philosophers have been more pessimistic about its capabilities, describing Sophia as a sophisticated puppet or chatbot. Looking behind the rhetoric about Sophia’s citizenship and intelligence and going beyond recent discussions on the moral status or legal personhood of AI robots, we analyse the performativity of Sophia from the perspective of what we call ‘political choreography’: drawing on phenomenological approaches to performance-oriented philosophy of technology. This paper proposes to interpret and discuss the world tour of Sophia as a political choreography that boosts the rise of the social robot market, rather than a statement about robot citizenship or artificial intelligence. We argue that the media performances of the Sophia robot were choreographed to advance specific political interests. We illustrate our philosophical discussion with media material of the Sophia performance, which helps us to explore the mechanisms through which the media spectacle functions hand in hand with advancing the economic interests of technology industries and their governmental promotors. Using a phenomenological approach and attending to the movement of robots, we also criticize the notion of ‘embodied intelligence’ used in the context of social robotics and AI. In this way, we put the discussions about the robot’s rights or citizenship in the context of AI politics and economics.