bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Military veterans on the board and executive compensation
Authors: Li Zhe , Rainville Megan
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between independent director military service and monitoring effectiveness, focusing on chief executive officer (CEO) compensation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors identify independent directors with military experience using BoardEx data. The authors focus on the level of CEO compensation. The methods used include panel data estimation, propensity score matching analysis and instrumental variable analysis.

Findings

The authors find more powerful CEOs are more likely to appoint independent directors with past military service to the board. Boards with a larger proportion of independent directors with military experience tend to award higher levels of CEO compensation. Moreover, the positive relationship between independent directors with military experience and executive compensation is stronger when the CEO is more powerful.

Originality/value

This paper examines a relatively unexplored director background, directors with military experience, and finds this type of independent director is associated with weak monitoring. The authors contribute to the literature examining the effect of executive and board member military experience on corporations. The authors identify weak monitoring of powerful CEOs as a potential weakness of directors with military experience. This drawback should be considered before appointing a director with military experience to the board.
Creation of an OHS knowledge portal: an action research
Authors: Laroche Elena , Patoine Marie-Josée
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Research findings stress the importance of adapting prevention mechanisms to the contexts experienced in the workplace. This paper presents the development and implementation of a knowledge portal that includes a range of Internet-based resources to support the prevention measures implemented by occupational health and safety (OHS) union delegates. It describes the process used to develop a knowledge portal that takes into account the needs of communities and unions as well as the constraints expressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach chosen for this project was action research, in which data collection results in various readjustment loops that allow for reflection and situational assessment. Data were collected from documentation, meetings, questionnaires and focus groups. The readjustment loops led to the implementation of a solution based on sustainability.

Findings

After studying the context, needs and constraints, the results suggest that for a knowledge portal to stand out, it must be consistent with classroom training, include a pedagogical approach that facilitates the transfer of knowledge, be interesting to all workers, be able to adapt to the characteristics of users and use technologies that reach across time, space and connection tools.

Originality/value

This knowledge portal is the result of interactions and collaborations between the university and the community, an interesting way to develop a solution. It sheds light on the fact that the action research process needs to be documented throughout the process and creation cycles in order to facilitate the sharing of the results obtained.
The Impact of Default Correlations on the Prices of Collateralized Bond Obligat
Authors: Kim In Joon , Byun Suk Joon , Park Yuen Jung
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a numerical procedure for pricing collateralized bond obligations (CBO) and analyze the impact of default correlations for the prices of collateralized bond obligations. Specifically, we adopt default correlation model of Zhou (2001) and first passage time model of Black and Cox (1976). The model of Black and Cox is used for estimating the value of the firm and the volatility of the firm value which are unobservable variables. We find that the impact of default correlations on the prices of collateralized bond obligations is generally quite large. This can be tested by carrying out Monte-Carlo simulations for firm value processes, assuming first no default correlations and second modeling default correlations between the processes. We also compare the model prices and recently issued CBO market price and find that no default correlation model over prices the issued CBO and default correlation model under prices the issued CBO. These results in this paper emphasize that modeling default correlations is very important in analyzing CBO and a more complicated further analysis is required.
The Impact of Trading Volumes by Trader Types in the KOSPI200 Futures Market
Authors: Yun Chang Hyeon , Gu Lee Seong
Published: September 2020

In this study we examine the relationships between trader-type-specific trading volumes and the price volatility of the KOSPI200 stock index futures over the period of July 1997 through December 2001. The principal findings of this study are that the changes in trading volumes by foreign investors are positively associated with the return and the volatility of the index futures market. When trading volumes are decomposed into expected and unexpected components, unexpected shocks have more persistent effect on the volatility of the market than expected component. Meanwhile, individuals and domestic commercial investor seem to follow the lead made by foreign investors.
Critical success factors for adopting building information modelling (BIM) and lean construction practices on construction mega-projects: a Delphi survey
Authors: Evans Martin , Farrell Peter , Mashali Ayman , Zewein Wael
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate critical success factors (CSFs) that enhance integration between building information modelling (BIM) and lean construction (LC) practices on construction mega-projects. BIM and LC have gained momentum in the past decade.

Design/methodology/approach

The Delphi survey technique was used to gauge opinions of a panel of 16 experts through a two-round Delphi questionnaire survey. Panel responses were scrutinised using inferential and descriptive statistical techniques.

Findings

In total, 30 CSFs were identified in the literature. The top ranked factor out of 30 that supports LeanBIM synergy was “collaboration in design, construction works and engineering management”. Other top rated CSFs were centric on people, data and technology elements. The research findings are important for project stakeholders, organisations, contractors, engineers and local authorities who implement LC and BIM synergies in construction mega-projects.

Originality/value

The research findings are important for project stakeholders, organisations, contractors, engineers and local authorities who implement LC and BIM synergies in construction mega-projects. The research recommends further hands-on training to increase the integration of BIM and LC practices in the architecture, engineering and construction industry and to enrich the extant body of knowledge in construction of mega-projects.
Optimising human resource system strength in nurturing affective commitment: Do all meta‐features matter?
Authors: Bos‐Nehles Anna , Conway Edel , Fox Grace
Published: September 2020

This study aims to examine three propositions of how human resource (HR) system strength meta‐features—distinctiveness, consistency and consensus—operate together to better understand how they relate to affective commitment. We test a continuum proposition based on an additive (the sum of all features) and a compensatory model (the features as counteractive), a precursor proposition based on a mediation model, and an equifinality proposition based on a configurational model (distinguishing between different profiles of the features). The findings, drawn from a survey of 2844 part‐time employees from a Dutch home care organisation, demonstrate that all three meta‐features are important for generating HR management system strength and affective commitment among employees, but not to the same extent. We also find evidence that consistency is positively and directly related, whereas distinctiveness and consensus are positively and indirectly related to affective commitment via consistency.
Weekly split‐dose regimen for oral methotrexate reduced polyglutamation in red blood cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared with single‐dose regimen: Results from a multicentered randomized control trial
Authors: Nagaoka Shouhei , Katayama Kou , Kasama Tsuyoshi , Sato Masao , Ohno Shigeru , Amasaki Yoshiharu , Kataoka Hiroshi , Furusaki Akira , Kon Yujiro , Okamoto Masahiro , Sasano Minoru , Sagawa Akira
Published: September 2020

Aims

We compared the incidence of adverse events between single and divided‐dose regimens of methotrexate (MTX) by using a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Eighty‐nine patients with insufficient control on MTX 8 mg/wk were randomly assigned into single‐dose (39 patients) or triple dose (39 patients) groups. The MTX dose for all patients was gradually increased to 16 mg/wk. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of liver dysfunction during the observation period (20 weeks).

Results

There were no differences in baseline data and MTX dose at Week 20 between groups. There was no significant difference in the incidence of liver dysfunction between groups (single dose, 3 [7.7%] patients vs. triple dose, 5 [13.2%] patients; P = .455). The incidence of adverse event increased in triple dose (single dose, 12 [30.8%] patients vs. triple dose, 20 [51.3%]), but the difference was not significant (P = .066). There was no significant difference in disease activity between groups, although MTX‐triglutamate (PG3), MTX‐PG4, and MTX‐PG5 were significantly higher in the single dose group.

Conclusions

Weekly split dosing reduced the polyglutamation of MTX. There was no significant difference in efficacy and safety between the 2 groups.
Resistance to compressive force in continuous chelation
Authors: Wright Patricia P. , Scott Suzanne , Shetty Sowmya , Kahler Bill , Walsh Laurence J.
Published: September 2020

Continuous chelation involves the simultaneous use of sodium hypochlorite and a chelating agent. Given the combination of a proteolytic agent and a demineralising chelator, this study aimed to investigate whether mixtures containing the weak chelators etidronate or clodronate and sodium hypochlorite could adversely affect the mechanical strength of teeth compared to the sequence sodium hypochlorite/EDTA/sodium hypochlorite. Matching pairs of bovine teeth were tested on a universal testing machine, and the compressive load at fracture was recorded. One root from each pair was prepared with the sequence, and the matching tooth was prepared with either water, the clodronate mixture or the etidronate mixture. No differences in load at fracture were seen between either mixture and the sequence. However, loads were higher in the teeth irrigated with water compared to the sequence. The results indicated that the continuous chelation mixtures did not alter tooth mechanical properties compared to the standard sequence.
Radiotherapy for prostate cancer: Effect of gold fiducial markers on diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tanaka Osamu , Maejima Ryoshu , Yama Eiichi , Taniguchi Takuya , Ono Kousei , Makita Chiyoko , Matsuo Masayuki
Published: September 2020

Purpose

There has been an increase in the use of gold fiducial markers to ensure precise radiotherapy delivery in prostate cancer patients. However, metal artifacts may affect the quality of subsequent imaging used to assess disease status following treatment. In this study, we evaluated the effect of gold fiducial markers on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly on diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI).

Material and methods

Among 57 patients with prostate cancer, 21 patients in whom two gold markers were placed in the prostate tumor with abnormal signal intensity on DWI were evaluated. The effect of the markers on DWI was evaluated on a scale of 1‐5, with a high score indicating clinical usefulness. Change inapparent diffusion coefficient (ADC; 10−3 mm2/s) from before to after marker placement was also evaluated.

Results

The mean effect of the markers on DWI was 4.3 (standard deviation [SD] 1.3, range 2–5) points. The mean change in ADC was 0.045 (SD 0.041, range 0.025‐0.089) × 10−3 mm2/s.

Conclusions

The gold fiducial markers demonstrated negligible effect on DWI quality. Therefore, gold markers do not affect MRI quality, particularly DWI, and may be used during follow‐up in prostate cancer patients.
Differentiated timing of induction for women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy—A historical cohort study
Authors: Nielsen Julie Helmer , Lykke Jacob Alexander
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a pregnancy‐specific liver disease characterized by pruritus and abnormal liver function tests and it has been associated with intrauterine fetal distress and stillbirth. We compared two guidelines of the management of ICP: one mandating induction at 38 weeks of gestation (Rigshospitalet and Hvidovre Hospital before 2012) and another separating ICP into mild and severe forms, and only women with severe ICP were recommended for induction at 38 weeks (Hvidovre Hospital after 2012).

Material and methods

We performed a historical cohort study at two Copenhagen Hospitals from 2004 to 2015. We included 62 937 women with singleton deliveries at Rigshospitalet and 71 015 at Hvidovre Hospital, of whom 971 women (1.5%) and 998 women (1.4%) were diagnosed with ICP at Rigshospitalet and Hvidovre Hospital, respectively. Data were retrieved from a local medical database. For the analysis of induction and comparison of obstetrical outcomes we only included pregnancies with an ICP diagnosis and excluded women with other medical conditions that could mandate induction. Main outcome measures were induction and cesarean section rates, asphyxia and stillbirth.

Results

We found no changes in the rate of spontaneous labor, cesarean section and induction over the years at Rigshospitalet (P = .17) and Hvidovre Hospital (P = .38). For women with intended vaginal delivery we found no change in the final mode of delivery over the years at Rigshospitalet (P = .28) and Hvidovre Hospital (P = .57).

Conclusions

The two approaches to the management of mild ICP regarding the timing of induction are comparable. Women with mild ICP and their clinicians should be encouraged to engage in shared decision‐making when discussing timing of induction.
The Double Session: Two for the Price of One or One for the Price of Two?
Authors: Davies Rebecca
Published: September 2020

The double session is evaluated here as a treatment option in a once‐weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy. The double session is defined as two 50‐minute sessions back‐to‐back, a single 100‐minute session. I discuss how the double session came to be chosen and practiced with one particular male client. I discuss previous literature on the use of the double session, elucidating the rationale, clinical thinking, indications and contraindications in these papers. I analyse my own clinical experience and thinking in the use of the double session in the context of the many objections; I attempt to argue positively and reflectively with this seemingly controversial adaptation of well trodden once‐weekly work. I address therapists' resistance to the double session. Using other examples of extended session work I examine how the therapy can be enhanced by its intensity and I argue for further research and use of the double session in an endeavour to deepen and enhance once‐weekly work.
Inhabiting Death in the Presence of the Body: Challenges of Exhumation in the Case of the Malvinas War
Authors: Panizo Laura M.
Published: September 2020

This article explores how a group of relatives of fallen soldiers of the Malvinas War inhabited death from the immediate aftermath of the conflict to the identification of the bodies in 2017. From a perspective borrowed from the anthropology of death and the body, it discusses how the status of these bodies shaped their relatives' representations of these deaths, understood as holy, heroic and sacrificial and inhabited through the performance of various mourning rituals. Finally, it demonstrates how the prospect of exhumation provoked resistance and fear, due to the unpredictable agency of the ‘corporeality of the dead’ in social life.
Pre‐transplant short physical performance battery: Response to pre‐habilitation and relationship to pre‐ and early post–lung‐transplant outcomes
Authors: Wickerson Lisa , Rozenberg Dmitry , Gottesman Chaya , Helm Denise , Mathur Sunita , Singer Lianne G.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To evaluate whether the short physical performance battery (SPPB) pre‐lung transplant (LTx) was responsive to pre‐habilitation and predicted pre‐ and early post‐transplant outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study of LTx candidates accepted for transplant between 2016 and 2017. SPPB was categorized as frail/pre‐frail (≤9/12) and non‐frail (≥10/12).

Results

150 patients had LTx assessment SPPB data (53% male, 61 [52‐67] years, 59% had interstitial lung disease (ILD), 26% frail/pre‐frail). 131 (87%) underwent transplant by December 31, 2018. Adjusting for age, sex, diagnosis and Canadian transplant listing urgency, and frailty/pre‐frailty at LTx assessment was associated with a lower 6MWD pre‐transplant [−89 meters 95%CI (−125 to −53), P < .0001]. 62 patients underwent six weeks of pre‐habilitation. SPPB increased (11 [10‐12) vs. 12 [11‐12], P = .01) reflected in the chair stand component (11.4 ± 4.4 vs. 9.8 ± 2.8 seconds, P = .007), with larger improvements in the frail/pre‐frail group. A frail/pre‐frail SPPB closest to the time of transplant was associated with a lower 6MWD [−77 m 95%CI (−128 to −25), P = .004] but not with hospital length of stay or gait aid use three months post‐transplant.

Conclusions

Frailty/pre‐frailty was associated with a decreased 6MWD pre‐ and post‐transplant. The SPPB increased following pre‐habilitation, which may reflect increased lower extremity strength.
Current status and future perspective on artificial intelligence for lower endoscopy
Authors: Misawa Masashi , Kudo Shin‐ei , Mori Yuichi , Maeda Yasuharu , Ogawa Yushi , Ichimasa Katsuro , Kudo Toyoki , Wakamura Kunihiko , Hayashi Takemasa , Miyachi Hideyuki , Baba Toshiyuki , Ishida Fumio , Itoh Hayato , Oda Masahiro , Mori Kensaku
Published: September 2020

The global incidence and mortality rate of colorectal cancer remains high. Colonoscopy is regarded as the gold standard examination for detecting and eradicating neoplastic lesions. However, there are some uncertainties in colonoscopy practice that are related to limitations in human performance. First, approximately one‐fourth of colorectal neoplasms are missed on a single colonoscopy. Second, it is still difficult for non‐experts to perform adequately regarding optical biopsy. Third, recording of some quality indicators (e.g. cecal intubation, bowel preparation, and withdrawal speed) which are related to adenoma detection rate, is sometimes incomplete. With recent improvements in machine learning techniques and advances in computer performance, artificial intelligence‐assisted computer‐aided diagnosis is being increasingly utilized by endoscopists. In particular, the emergence of deep‐learning, data‐driven machine learning techniques have made the development of computer‐aided systems easier than that of conventional machine learning techniques, the former currently being considered the standard artificial intelligence engine of computer‐aided diagnosis by colonoscopy. To date, computer‐aided detection systems seem to have improved the rate of detection of neoplasms. Additionally, computer‐aided characterization systems may have the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy in real‐time clinical practice. Furthermore, some artificial intelligence‐assisted systems that aim to improve the quality of colonoscopy have been reported. The implementation of computer‐aided system clinical practice may provide additional benefits such as helping in educational poorly performing endoscopists and supporting real‐time clinical decision‐making. In this review, we have focused on computer‐aided diagnosis during colonoscopy reported by gastroenterologists and discussed its status, limitations, and future prospects.
Nonverbal cognitive assessments in children with cochlear implants
Authors: Meinzen‐Derr Jareen
Published: September 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Micheletti et al. on pages 1429–1436 of this issue.
Parental expectations before and after 12‐month experience with video consultations combined with regular outpatient care for children with type 1 diabetes: a qualitative study
Authors: von Sengbusch S. , Doerdelmann J. , Lemke S. , Lange K. , Hiort O. , Katalinic A. , Frielitz F. S.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To explore parents’ expectations of the perceived barriers to and benefits of 1 year of monthly video consultations combined with regular outpatient care of children with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

The Virtual Diabetes Outpatient Clinic for Children and Youth (VIDIKI) study was a controlled, multicentre, perennial study with 240 participants from northern Germany. Fifty‐four qualitative interviews with parents were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Before the intervention, 30 interviews were conducted to assess parents’ expectations, and after 1 year, 24 interviews evaluated the experienced benefits and barriers to video consultations.

Results

Four main topics were identified from parents’ responses to the video consultation. The main advantages of the video consultation compared with standard care were a higher frequency of contact for optimized insulin dosing and saving time; difficulties with internet connections were identified as the main barrier. A feeling of increased confidence with respect to insulin dosing was directly associated with telemedicine. Digital prescriptions and meeting the same diabetologist in both outpatient and telemedical care were mentioned as important improvements. The majority of interviewees preferred intervals of 4–6 weeks between video consultations.

Conclusion

The higher frequency of contact with the diabetes team was considered a great relief by parents of children with type 1 diabetes. Apart from the time savings and flexibility in appointments, the most important advantages were the higher frequency of contact leading to short‐term therapy adjustments and an increase in the ability to adjust therapy independently. (German Clinical Trials Registry No: DRKS00012645).
Caffeine enhances BOLD responses to electrical whisker pad stimulation in rats during alpha‐chloralose anaesthesia
Authors: Shih Cheng‐Ting , Chiu Shao‐Chieh , Peng Shin‐Lei
Published: September 2020

By reducing the cerebral blood flow and thereby increasing the resting deoxyhaemoglobin concentration, many human studies have shown that caffeine has a beneficial effect on enhancing the magnitude of blood‐oxygenation‐level‐dependent (BOLD) responses. However, the effect of caffeine on BOLD responses in animals under anaesthesia has not been demonstrated. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of systemic caffeine administration on BOLD responses in rats under alpha‐chloralose. By applying electric whisker pad stimulation to male Sprague‐Dawley rats, we performed fMRI measurements before and after the caffeine injection (40 mg/kg, n = 7) or an equivalent volume of saline (n = 6) at 7T. To understand the potential perturbation of animal physiology during stimulation, arterial blood pressure was measured in a separate group of animals (n = 3) outside the scanner. Caffeine significantly decreased baseline BOLD signals (p = .05) due to the increased deoxyhaemoglobin level. Both BOLD responses and t‐values in the primary somatosensory cortex were significantly increased (both p < .05). The blood pressure changed insignificantly (p > .05). No significant differences in BOLD responses and t‐values were observed in the control condition of saline injection (both p > .05). These findings suggested that, although the cerebral activity was lower under alpha‐chloralose anaesthesia, the higher level of deoxygemoglobin at the baseline under the caffeinated condition can benefit the magnitude of BOLD responses in rats. These findings suggest that animal models might serve as potential platforms for further caffeine‐related fMRI research studies.
Ecology and evolution of cycad‐feeding Lepidoptera
Authors: Whitaker Melissa R. L. , Salzman Shayla
Published: September 2020

Cycads are an ancient group of tropical gymnosperms that are toxic to most animals – including humans – though the larvae of many moths and butterflies (order: Lepidoptera) feed on cycads with apparent immunity. These insects belong to distinct lineages with varying degrees of specialisation and diverse feeding ecologies, presenting numerous opportunities for comparative studies of chemically mediated eco‐evolutionary dynamics. This review presents the first evolutionary evaluation of cycad‐feeding among Lepidoptera along with a comprehensive review of their ecology. Our analysis suggests that multiple lineages have independently colonised cycads from angiosperm hosts, yet only a few clades appear to have radiated following their transitions to cycads. Defensive traits are likely important for diversification, as many cycad specialists are warningly coloured and sequester cycad toxins. The butterfly family Lycaenidae appears to be particularly predisposed to cycad‐feeding and several cycadivorous lycaenids are warningly coloured and chemically defended. Cycad–herbivore interactions provide a promising but underutilised study system for investigating plant–insect coevolution, convergent and divergent adaptations, and the multi‐trophic significance of defensive traits; therefore the review ends by suggesting specific research gaps that would be fruitfully addressed in Lepidoptera and other cycad‐feeding insects.
Cortical inexcitability defines an adverse clinical profile in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Dharmadasa T. , Howells J. , Matamala J. M. , Simon N. G. , Burke D. , Vucic S. , Kiernan M. C.
Published: September 2020

Background and purpose

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, studies using threshold‐tracking transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) have identified corticomotoneuronal dysfunction as a key pathogenic mechanism. Some patients, however, display no motor response at maximal TMS intensities, termed here an ‘inexcitable’ motor cortex. The extent to which this cortical difference impacts clinical outcomes remains unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical profile of patients with inexcitability to TMS.

Methods

Motor cortex excitability was evaluated using TMS. Patients in whom a motor evoked potential could not be recorded in one or more limbs at maximal TMS intensities were classified as four‐limb or partially inexcitable. Demographic information, clinical variables and survival data were analysed.

Results

From 133 patients, 40 were identified with inexcitability. Patients with four‐limb inexcitability were younger (P = 0.03) and had lower‐limb disease onset (64%), greater functional disability (P < 0.001) and faster disease progression (P = 0.02), particularly if inexcitability developed within 1 year of symptoms (P < 0.01). Patients with partial inexcitability had higher resting motor thresholds compared to the excitable cohort (P < 0.01), but averaged short‐interval intracortical inhibition was similar (P = 0.5). Mean survival was reduced if inexcitability involved all limbs within 12 months of symptom onset (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with inexcitability of all four limbs to TMS have a distinct clinical profile of younger age and lower‐limb onset. Importantly, these patients display a more malignant disease trajectory, with faster progression, greater functional disability and reduced survival when occurring in early disease. This measure may provide an important prognostic marker in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Quantifying shortfalls in the knowledge on Neotropical Auchenipteridae fishes
Authors: Freitas Tiago Magalhães da Silva , Stropp Juliana , Calegari Bárbara Borges , Calatayud Joaquín , De Marco Paulo , Montag Luciano Fogaça de Assis , Hortal Joaquín
Published: September 2020

The Neotropics harbour the greatest diversity of freshwater fish on Earth. Despite recent advances in characterizing the fish fauna, the total number of species, distributional range, evolution and ecological traits remain uncertain. Thus, we quantify shortfalls in the knowledge of taxonomy (Linnean shortfall), geographic distribution (Wallacean shortfall), evolutionary relationships (Darwinian shortfall) and feeding habits (Raunkiæran shortfall) of Auchenipteridae driftwood catfishes, one of the most representative groups of the Siluriformes family in the Neotropics. We find a steep increase in the historical accumulation of valid species over time, suggesting that 45% of the total number predicted remains to be described. Auchenipterids also remain under‐collected; only 45% of the ecoregions and less than 3% of the one‐degree grid cells covering the Neotropics are reasonably sampled. The topologies of recent phylogenies are more similar to each other than former ones, showing a tendency towards a robust phylogenetic hypothesis for this family. Current knowledge on feeding habits is biased towards a few genera and species and is still expanding with every new published study. Our study highlights specific knowledge gaps that need to be addressed: a considerable number of Auchenipteridae species remain to be described; and most of valid species lack reliable information on their geographic distribution and feeding habitat. It implies that research on fish systematic biology needs to advance and it will require a concerted effort of taxonomists, ecologists and biogeographers to reduce these gaps.
Public pension reform and the 49th parallel: Lessons from Canada for the U.S.
Authors: Lipshitz Clive , Walter Ingo
Published: September 2020

Public employee pension systems around the world show remarkable diversity in design and execution. Among these, the U.S. defined benefit public pension system has drawn increased attention because of questions about the long‐term sustainability of many of the underlying pension funds – as well as concerns of equity between pension plan members, retirees, taxpayers, bondholders, and users of public services. The Covid‐19 pandemic introduced new fissures in state and local government finances, heightening the need to bolster long‐term public pension fund robustness. As an alternative model, the Canadian public pension system is widely respected. This was not foreordained. The authors trace difficult decisions undertaken in Canada in the 1980s and 1990s along with essential descriptive features of the Canadian Model. Using a novel primary dataset, the authors benchmark the 25 largest U.S. plans against their ten largest Canadian peers, exploring key issues in a paired analysis. The authors extract fundamental lessons from the Canadian experience, proposing a roadmap for reform of the U.S. public pension system. They argue that long‐term pension sustainability, once politically prioritized, must be built on equity and discipline in plan design, funding, and amortization of existing deficits. They emphasize the importance of legal framework, particularly joint sponsorship, alongside enhanced governance and unified legislation. They also draw lessons from the Canadian experience with respect to enhanced investment organizations and investment strategies.
Liquid‐based cytological and immunohistochemical study of nasopharyngeal swab from persons under investigation for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Parada David , Peña Karla B , Gumà Josep , Guilarte Carmen , Riu Francesc
Published: September 2020

Introduction

We describe cytologic and immunohistologic findings in virus transport medium on cases under investigation of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

Cytologic findings in cases under investigation of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection from one hundred consecutive nasopharyngeal swab were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry and SARSCoV‐2 RT‐PCR determination were performed to detect virus.

Results

No viral inclusions were noted in squamous cells obtained from virus transport medium. Immunohistochemical study with monoclonal antibody against SARS‐CoV‐2 viral nucleoprotein showed positivity in squamous cells. No positivity was present in others cellular components.

Conclusions

SARS‐CoV‐2 predominantly localizes squamous cells in cytology samples of patients with RT‐PCR positive determination of SARSCoV‐2. The results of the current study support the notion that the nasopharyngeal region is the anatomical station that SARS‐CoV‐2 infects first, and the infection can lead to the migration of the virus into the lower airways.
Family caregivers' experiences of interaction with people with mild‐to‐moderate dementia in China: A qualitative study
Authors: Yang Lili , Ye Huiling , Sun Qiuhua
Published: September 2020

Aim

This study aimed to explore the experiences of family caregivers interacting with people with dementia.

Background

A majority of people with mild‐to‐moderate dementia live at home with family caregivers. This interaction creates positive experiences and challenges for these caregivers.

Design

Descriptive phenomenological qualitative inquiry guided this study.

Methods

This qualitative study involved semi‐structured interviews with the caregivers of people with mild‐to‐moderate dementia (n = 10). Data were collected from June to September 2018, and then data were thematically analysed.

Results

Six categories of themes were identified from the interviews: (1) unexpected things often happen; (2) positive coping strategies; (3) sense of accomplishment because people with dementia actively participate in activities; (4) sense of frustration because of the reluctance of people with dementia to participate in activities; (5) hope for the happiness of people with dementia; and (6) want to have their own life.

Conclusions

This study reveals that caregivers could positively interact with people with dementia through creating opportunities and arranging meaningful activities. Future research should focus on family management and training on how to help caregivers interact effectively with people with dementia.
Staffing a Call Center with Uncertain Arrival Rate and Absenteeism
Authors: Whitt Ward
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes simple methods for staffing a single‐class call center with uncertain arrival rate and uncertain staffing due to employee absenteeism. The arrival rate and the proportion of servers present are treated as random variables. The basic model is a multi‐server queue with customer abandonment, allowing non‐exponential service‐time and time‐to‐abandon distributions. The goal is to maximize the expected net return, given throughput benefit and server, customer‐abandonment and customer‐waiting costs, but attention is also given to the standard deviation of the return. The approach is to approximate the performance and the net return, conditional on the random model‐parameter vector, and then uncondition to get the desired results. Two recently‐developed approximations are used for the conditional performance measures: first, a deterministic fluid approximation and, second, a numerical algorithm based on a purely Markovian birth‐and‐death model, having state‐dependent death rates.
On Equal Citizenship and Public Reason: Reply to Critics
Authors: Hartley Christie , Watson Lori
Published: September 2020

In writing Equal Citizenship and Public Reason, we aimed to show that political liberalism is a feminist liberalism. To that end, we develop and defend a particular understanding of the commitments of political liberalism. Then, we argue that certain laws and policies are needed to protect and secure the interests of persons as free and equal citizens. We focus on the laws and policies that we think are necessary for gender justice. In particular, we apply our view to the contexts of prostitution law, family and marriage law, state support for caregivers, and religious exemptions from generally applicable laws. In this article, we consider some of the challenges made by the thoughtful critics who are part of this symposium. In particular, we address: why the collective enterprise view of liberal democracy requires shared reasons for the justification of certain laws and policies; how we understand substantive equality and why our understanding of substantive equality does not commit us to a comprehensive doctrine; how we avoid defending a particular political conception of justice in showing that political liberalism is a feminist liberalism; and how it is that, given justice pluralism, public reasons can provide stability for the right reasons.
Meta‐analysis of changes in the levels of catecholamines and blood pressure with continuous positive airway pressure therapy in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Green Mackenzie , Ken‐Dror Gie , Fluck David , Sada Charif , Sharma Pankaj , Fry Christopher H. , Han Thang S.
Published: September 2020

Stress from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) stimulates catecholamine release consequently exacerbating hypertension. However, different studies have shown a conflicting impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment in patients with OSA on catecholamine levels and blood pressure. We aimed to examine changes to catecholamine levels and blood pressure in response to CPAP treatment. We conducted a meta‐analysis of data published up to May 2020. The quality of the studies was evaluated using standard tools for assessing the risk of bias. Meta‐analysis was conducted using RevMan (v5.3) and expressed in standardized mean difference (SMD) for catecholamines and mean difference (MD) for systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). A total of 38 studies met our search criteria; they consisted of 14 randomized control trials (RCT) totaling 576 participants and 24 prospective cohort studies (PCS) of 547 participants. Mean age ranged between 41 and 62 year and body mass index between 27.2 and 35.1 kg/m2. CPAP treatment reduced 24‐hour urinary noradrenaline levels both in RCT (SMD = −1.1; 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.63 to − 0.56) and in PCS (SMD = 0.38 (CI: 0.24 to 0.53). SBP was also reduced by CPAP treatment in RCT (4.8 mmHg; CI: 2.0‐7.7) and in PCS (7.5 mmHg; CI: 3.3‐11.7). DBP was similarly reduced (3.0 mmHg; CI: 1.4‐4.6) and in PCS (5.1 mmHg; CI: 2.3‐8.0). In conclusion, CPAP treatment in patients with OSA reduces catecholamine levels and blood pressure. This suggests that sympathetic activity plays an intermediary role in hypertension associated with OSA‐related stress.
Mobility Device Use and Mobility Disability in U.S. Medicare Beneficiaries With and Without Cancer History
Authors: Bluethmann Shirley M. , Flores Eileen , Campbell Grace , Klepin Heidi D.
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To examine the prevalence of mobility device use in U.S. community‐dwelling older adults including older adults with cancer history (“survivors”) and to estimate mobility disability noting variation by cancer history, cancer site, and other factors to improve early detection of mobility limitations.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional analysis from the 2011 National Health and Aging Trends Study.

SETTING

In‐person interviews in the homes of study participants.

PARTICIPANTS

Nationally representative sample of community‐dwelling Medicare beneficiaries, aged 65 and older (n = 6,080 including 1,203 survivors).

MEASUREMENTS

Participants were asked about cancer history, pain that limited activity, mobility device use (eg, canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters), history of falls, and medical conditions plus they were assessed for approximate mobility disability using a 3‐m gait speed test. The results were scored on a scale of 0 to 4 (0 = lowest, 4 = highest) using criteria from the National Institute on Aging.

RESULTS

A total of 19% of older adults and 23% of survivors reported using one or more mobility device, most commonly a single‐point cane. Approximately 10% of breast, 6% of prostate, and 3% of colorectal cancer survivors reported using two or more devices in the past month. Survivors had lower mean gait speed scores (2.27) than adults without cancer history (2.39). In regression models, survivors were 18% less likely than adults without cancer history to score high on the gait speed test (odds ratio = .82; P < .05). Prior mobility device use, history of multiple falls, unhealthy weight, Black race, multimorbidity, and pain that limited activity were associated with lower gait speed scores in all participants (all P < .05).

CONCLUSION

A greater proportion of older survivors used mobility devices than adults without cancer history. Mobility device use varied by cancer site and was highest in survivors of breast, colorectal, and gynecological cancer. Survivors were also more likely to show signs of mobility disability, based on gait speed, compared with adults without cancer history. These indications, although modest, suggest that older survivors may require special attention to functional changes in survivorship.
Evaluation of intralesional Candida antigen in diabetic patients with multiple warts
Authors: Marei Ayman , Alakad Rania , Wahid Reham M.
Published: September 2020

Background

Treatment of warts in diabetic patients with ablative modalities poses a significant risk owing to increased possibility of secondary infection, slow healing, and recurrence. Intralesional immunotherapy has gained popularity in the treatment of warts due to its proven efficacy and good tolerability compared with destructive methods.

Aim

To evaluate the intralesional Candida antigen injection for the treatment of multiple warts in diabetic patients.

Patients/Methods

Fifty diabetic patients with multiple genital/nongenital warts were divided into two groups. The first group (30 patients) received intralesional Candida antigen, and the second group (20 patients) had intralesional saline as control. The treatments were injected into the largest wart every 2 weeks until complete clearance of warts or for a maximum of five sessions.

Results

Complete clearance of warts was observed in 80% of the diabetic patients in the Candida antigen group compared with 15% in the control group (P < .001). Side effects to Candida antigen included pain during injection in all patients, flu‐like symptoms, and localized reaction at the injection site in few patients.

Conclusion

Intralesional Candida antigen injection can be a promising effective and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of warts in diabetic patients.
Phylogenomics enables biogeographic analysis and a new subtribal classification of Andropogoneae (Poaceae—Panicoideae)
Authors: Welker Cassiano A. D. , McKain Michael R. , Estep Matt C. , Pasquet Rémy S. , Chipabika Gilson , Pallangyo Beatrice , Kellogg Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2020

The grass tribe Andropogoneae (Poaceae—Panicoideae) includes several important crops such as maize, sugarcane, and sorghum, and dominates the tropical grasslands of the world. We present here a plastome phylogeny of the tribe with the largest sample of genera to date (about 73%), including 65 newly assembled plastomes, together with a broad biogeographic analysis of Andropogoneae. Major relationships found in previous phylogenetic studies were confirmed here, with most nodes having higher resolution and support, including those of the backbone of the tree, which had been a major problem in previous phylogenies of the tribe. Our dated tree suggests that Andropogoneae diverged from Arundinelleae in the Early Miocene, while the “core Andropogoneae” clade originated in the Late Miocene. The tribe originated in East Asia, but intercontinental dispersal has been common, with many independent dispersal events to Africa and the New World. Based on the plastome phylogeny, we propose here a new classification of Andropogoneae as most of its previously accepted subtribes are not monophyletic. Our classification comprises 14 subtribes, 92 genera, and ∼1224 species. About 90% of the Andropogoneae species could be assigned to a subtribe, which represents a major step toward clarification of the taxonomy of the tribe. The remaining taxa were placed incertae sedis pending additional molecular data. The new subtribes Chrysopogoninae and Rhytachninae are described herein. Our plastome trees also indicate that several Andropogoneae genera are para‐ or polyphyletic and require additional studies to define their circumscriptions.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in diffuse large B‐cell Lymphoma treated with R‐CHOP
Authors: Lee Ji Yun , Kang Minsu , Suh Koung Jin , Kim Ji‐Won , Kim Se Hyun , Kim Jin Won , Kim Yu Jung , Song Kyoung‐Ho , Kim Eu Suk , Kim Hong Bin , Lee Keun‐Wook , Kim Jee Hyun , Bang Soo‐Mee , Lee Jong‐Seok , Lee Jeong‐Ok
Published: September 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of and risk factors for Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) infection in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients treated with rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (R‐CHOP).

Methods

The medical records of 739 DLBCL patients who received R‐CHOP between May 2004 and January 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received primary PCP prophylaxis (prophylaxis group) and those who did not (control group). The incidence rate of PCP in each group was calculated, and risk factors for PCP were evaluated in the control group.

Results

Baseline characteristics were significantly different between the two groups. Compared to the 602 patients who did not receive prophylaxis, the prophylaxis group (n = 137) had poor prognostic factors of older age, high lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, advanced Ann Arbour stage, and high International Prognostic Index (IPI) risk scores. None of the patients receiving PCP prophylaxis developed PCP, while the incidence of PCP in the control group was 8.1% (definite cases 5.5% and probable cases 2.7%). Out of the 49 patients who developed PCP, 10 patients (20.4%) were admitted to the intensive care unit, and the PCP‐related death rate was 16.3% (8/49).

Conclusion

This study showed that PCP prophylaxis is highly effective against PCP infection and may help guide prevention of PCP during R‐CHOP treatment in DLBCL patients.
Genetics of autoimmunity in plants: an evolutionary genetics perspective
Authors: Wan Wei‐Lin , Kim Sang‐Tae , Castel Baptiste , Charoennit Nuri , Chae Eunyoung
Published: September 2020

Autoimmunity in plants has been found in numerous hybrids as a form of hybrid necrosis and mutant panels. Uncontrolled cell death is a main cellular outcome of autoimmunity, which negatively impacts growth. Its occurrence highlights the vulnerable nature of the plant immune system. Genetic investigation of autoimmunity in hybrid plants revealed that extreme variation in the immune receptor repertoire is a major contributor, reflecting an evolutionary conundrum that plants face in nature. In this review, we discuss natural variation in the plant immune system and its contribution to fitness. The value of autoimmunity genetics lies in its ability to identify combinations of a natural immune receptor and its partner that are predisposed to triggering autoimmunity. The network of immune components for autoimmunity becomes instrumental in revealing mechanistic details of how immune receptors recognize cellular invasion and activate signaling. The list of autoimmunity‐risk variants also allows us to infer evolutionary processes contributing to their maintenance in the natural population. Our approach to autoimmunity, which integrates mechanistic understanding and evolutionary genetics, has the potential to serve as a prognosis tool to optimize immunity in crops.