bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced numerical integration scheme based on image-compression techniques: application to fictitious domain methods
Authors: Petö Márton , Duvigneau Fabian , Eisenträger Sascha
Published: May 2020

In the present work, we propose a new approach, the so-called compressed adaptive integration scheme (C-AIS), for the computation of the stiffness and mass matrices in fictitious domain methods requiring the integration of discontinuous functions. The novel approach extends the conventional quadtree-decomposition-based adaptive integration scheme (AIS) by an additional step, in which established image-compression techniques are exploited to decrease the number of integration sub-cells. The benefits of the C-AIS are manifold: First, the compression of the sub-cells inevitably leads to significant savings in terms of computational time required by the numerical integration. Second, the compression procedure, which is executed directly after the quadtree-decomposition algorithm, can be easily included in existing codes. Third, if applied to polynomial integrands, the C-AIS yields exactly the same accuracy as the conventional AIS. Finally, the fourth advantage is seen in the fact that the C-AIS can readily be combined with other approaches seeking a reduction of the number of integration points such as the Boolean-FCM. The efficiency of the C-AIS approach is presented in the context of the FCM based on Cartesian meshes applied to problems of linear elastostatics and modal analysis, while it is also suitable for the quadrature in other fictitious domain approaches, e.g., CutFEM and cgFEM.
Oak wood degradation processes induced by the burial environment in the archaeological site of Biskupin (Poland)
Authors: Lucejko Jeannette Jacqueline , Tamburini Diego , Zborowska Magdalena , Babiński Leszek , Modugno Francesca , Colombini Maria Perla
Published: May 2020

The open-air Archaeological Museum in Biskupin (Poland) preserves and shows to the public a prehistoric settlement of Lusatian culture dating back to Early Iron Age (eighth century BC). The monitoring of the environment and dynamics of the wood degradation in the burial conditions at the site is fundamental for the in situ preservation of archaeological wooden materials. A monitoring program thus started in 2003 at the Biskupin site, using contemporary sound oak wood that was placed in two wet burial environments, characterised by different conditions. A multi-analytical protocol was exploited to obtain information on the structural, physical and chemical conditions of the buried wood. The study involved the application of gravimetric and wet chemical analysis, and instrumental techniques, including infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and analytical pyrolysis (Py–GC/MS) to evaluate alterations in the buried oak wood over a 10-year period. The results showed that, during the burial period in both monitoring stations, there was only limited chemical transformation of the polysaccharide component, mostly involving hemicelluloses. The differences observed might be due to the natural compositional variability and inhomogeneity of oak wood. The final condition of the wood was very similar in the two burial environments. It is therefore suggested that the wet burial conditions in the Biskupin site represent a safe conservation environment for the in situ preservation of the wood remains, at least those presenting a good initial preservation state. This supports the conservation strategy adopted in the Biskupin Museum site.
Attitudes among paediatric healthcare professionals in Sweden towards sperm donation to single women: a survey study
Authors: Armuand Gabriela , Skoog Svanberg Agneta , Lampic Claudia , Elenis Evangelia , Sydsjö Gunilla
Published: May 2020

Background

The number of families conceived through sperm donation to single women is increasing. However, there is limited knowledge about health care professionals’ attitudes towards solo-mothers by choice, and there is some indication that professionals’ personal opinions influence their care of individuals who use alternate ways to build a family. The primary aim of the study was to investigate attitudes towards, and experiences of, families following sperm donation to single women among healthcare professionals working in primary child healthcare.

Methods

Between April and November 2016 a total of 712 physicians, registered nurses and psychologists working within primary healthcare in Sweden were invited to participate in a cross-sectional online survey study. The study-specific questionnaire contained the following four domains: Attitudes towards legalization and financing, Attitudes towards the family and the child’s health, Clinical experience and Knowledge about sperm donation to single women.

Results

The majority of the participants were positive or neutral towards sperm donation being allowed to single women in Sweden. However, one third believed that children risk worse mental health and social stigma. Half of healthcare professionals had own clinical experience of caring for solo-mothers by choice and their children, and of these one third perceived that these families had more need of support than other parents. One out of four indicated that they did not have sufficient knowledge to be able to provide adequate care to these families.

Conclusions

The present results indicate that while there was a relatively large support for sperm donation being allowed to single women in Sweden among health care professionals, many expressed concerns about the child’s health, as well as low confidence in their knowledge about the specific needs in this patient group. There is a need for educational interventions targeted to healthcare professionals in primary child healthcare in order to provide adequate care to solo-mothers by choice and their children.
IgG4-related disease presenting as a submucosal tumor of the stomach resected with laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery: a case report
Authors: Yamane Taishi , Eto Kojiro , Morinaga Takeshi , Matsumura Kazuki , Yamashita Kohei , Tokunaga Ryuma , Harada Kazuto , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Nagai Yohei , Iwatsuki Masaki , Iwagami Shiro , Miyamoto Yuji , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: May 2020

Background

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an immune-mediated disorder in which abundant IgG4-positive plasma cells infiltrate affected organs. There have been reported four cases of probable IgG4-RD presenting as a submucosal tumor of the stomach. We herein report the first case of definite IgG4-RD presenting as a submucosal tumor of the stomach resected with laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS).

Case presentation

A 70-year-old woman with a 6-year history of autoimmune pancreatitis was referred to our department because a 15-mm submucosal tumor in the greater curvature of the lower part of the stomach had been identified via upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a 10-mm low-echoic lesion derived from the submucosal layer of the stomach. A fine-needle aspiration biopsy was attempted, but the tumor was too hard for sampling. F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography showed an FDG uptake, suggesting a possibility of malignant disease. As the diagnosis could not be confirmed, LECS for both the diagnosis and curative treatment was performed. A histopathological examination showed a tumor with IgG4-positive lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and fibrosis. The ratio of IgG4+/IgG+ lymphoplasmacytic cells was > 80%. A laboratory examination showed elevation of the serum IgG4 levels preoperatively. Thus, the final diagnosis was IgG4-RD of the stomach. No recurrence was observed within 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions

We encountered a case of definite IgG4-RD presenting as a gastric SMT in which a correct diagnosis was achieved by a minimally invasive LECS technique. IgG4-RD may present as a gastric lesion and should be taken into consideration as a differential diagnosis.
Feasibility of behavioral activation group therapy in reducing depressive symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with depression: the BRAVE pilot trial
Authors: D’Elia Alessia , Bawor Monica , Dennis Brittany B. , Bhatt Meha , Litke Kathryn , McCabe Kathleen , Whattam Jeff , Garrick Laura , O’Neill Laura , Simons Scott , Chalmers Sandra , Key Brenda , Goyert Stefanie , Laplante Phillip , Vanstone Meredith , Xie Feng , Guyatt Gordon , Thabane Lehana , Samaan Zainab
Published: May 2020

Background

Depression impacts the lives of millions of people worldwide. Behavioral activation (BA), derived from cognitive behavioral therapy, has the potential for improving depressive symptoms in patients with depression. Studies evaluating the effectiveness of BA specifically in the context of group therapy programs in a hospital setting for patients with depression are limited. In this study, we report findings from a pilot trial evaluating group BA for major depressive disorder.

Objective

The objectives of this pilot trial are to assess the potential of a full trial of BA group therapy in a large-scale tertiary care setting and to provide preliminary information about possible results regarding mood symptoms and quality of life in adults with depression.

Methods

Using a parallel single-cohort pragmatic pilot randomized controlled trial design, we evaluated the potential of conducting a large trial of BA effectiveness among adults with depression. Participants were randomized to the intervention (BA in addition to usual care) or control (support group in addition to usual care) groups and were assessed weekly for 18 consecutive weeks. Participants randomized to intervention underwent 28 2-h group BA therapy visits administered by trained therapists and completed assessments to examine treatment outcomes. Feasibility was measured in terms of enrollment rates (min. 20%), completion rates of study (min. 80%), and completion rates of weekly measurement scales (min. 80%). The reporting of this pilot trial is in accordance with the CONSORT extension for randomized pilot and feasibility trials.

Results

We randomized 20 individuals of mean age of 48.8 years (standard deviation = 9.7) with a DSM-5 diagnosis of major depressive disorder to intervention (n = 10) or control (n = 10) groups. Based on our feasibility criteria, our recruitment rate was excellent (20/27; 74%), study completion was found to be a moderate (80% of the total participants in both arms completed the study; BA = 100%, control = 60%), and completeness of measurements on a weekly basis was adequate overall (82%; BA = 86%, control = 79%).

Conclusions

The study has demonstrated the potential feasibility to perform a larger scale trial upon modifications to the control group to avoid the low rate of study completion (60%) in this group.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials NCT02045771, Registered January 22, 2014
Body, Soul and Spirit, an adaptation of two evidence-based interventions to promote physical activity and healthy eating among adults in churches in Lagos Nigeria: a three-arm cluster randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Odukoya Oluwakemi Ololade , Manortey Steve , Takemoto Michelle , Alder Steve , Okuyemi Kolawole S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Physical inactivity and unhealthy eating are two leading behavioral risk factors contributing to preventable non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Evidence-based interventions (EBI) using community-engaged approaches to address these risks abound in high-income countries. Comparatively, evidence of such interventions is sparse in low- and middle-income countries, where NCD mortality is greater. This paper describes the protocol for the development of the cultural adaptation and pilot testing of a combination of two EBI (i.e., Body and Soul and the Healthy Body Healthy Spirit), in church-based settings in Lagos, Nigeria. In addition, we describe the development of the inclusion of an additional component, i.e., faith-based text messages, into one of the treatment arms. Our objective is to assess the feasibility of developing and implementing the adapted interventions with the ultimate aim of developing a fully powered trial.

Methods

This pilot study will assess the design and implementation of a three-arm cluster-randomized pilot trial in 12 randomly selected Anglican churches (4 in each arm). First, we will design a cultural adaptation of the two EBI’s to form a multifaceted combined intervention known as the Body Soul and Spirit. The second treatment arm, i.e., Body Soul and Spirit Plus, will retain all the components of Body Soul and Spirit with the inclusion of faith-based text messages using mobile phones. Participants in the control arm will receive information leaflets designed to increase physical activity and healthy food consumption. The outcome measures include participant recruitment and retention, program participation and satisfaction, and data collection completion rates. The outcomes for the proposed definitive trial will be the number of servings of fruit and vegetables and minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day will be assessed at baseline, 3 and 6-month follow-up. Implementation outcomes will be assessed using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Discussion

The study will enhance the understanding of how best to design and implement behavioral interventions in church-based settings using community-based participatory approaches. It will also inform the development of a definitive randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

Pan African Clinical Trials Registry on 12th July 2018. PACTR201807136835945. Available at https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=3481
Coordinated multi-sectoral efforts needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons from China and the United States
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Cao Cong , Yang Gonghuan
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused staggering human and economic costs. We outline four key lessons learned from efforts to address the pandemic in China and the US. First, effective surveillance, reporting, and contact tracing are needed to contain an epidemic at its emergence and to mitigate its impact at a later stage. Second, multi-sectoral efforts to offer incentives for those with no or minor symptoms to seek care and to quarantine themselves are critical, which would need concerted efforts from payers, providers, and public health. Third, sustained and routine prevention efforts involving both the public and the health systems will prove to be useful in times of a pandemic. Fourth, a strong public health system is essential and will be appreciated at times of urgency. Concerted multi-sectoral efforts are required to address COVID-19 pandemic with strong leadership from the public health sector.
Renal Cell and Urothelial Carcinoma: Biomarkers for New Treatments
Authors: Schmidt Andrew L. , Siefker-Radtke Arlene , McConkey David , McGregor Bradley
Published: May 2020

Therapies for genitourinary malignancies have evolved considerably in the past 5 years. Combination treatment targeting biologically relevant immune and angiogenic pathways is improving patient survival in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC), whereas immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), novel targeted therapy, and antibody drug conjugates have changed the landscape of urothelial cancer (UC) treatment. A daily challenge for clinicians is identifying patients who derive a preferential benefit from the available therapeutic options. The completion of large-scale genomics projects has yielded comprehensive descriptions of the molecular heterogeneity present in RCC and UC, although clinical applications of these data continue to evolve. Major molecular subtypes of RCC align well with histology subtype, and although some molecular characteristics appear to carry prognostic information, biomarkers predicting benefit from tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) or immunotherapy are generally lacking. Unexpectedly, similar work has demonstrated that UC can be grouped into “molecular subtypes” that share properties with those found in breast cancer and other solid tumors. Furthermore, this molecular subtype classification is prognostic and potentially predictive of differential benefit from conventional and targeted therapies. This article provides an update on the current state of molecular biomarker development and potential clinical utility in RCC and UC.
Prospects for FSH Treatment of Male Infertility
Authors: Simoni Manuela , Brigante Giulia , Rochira Vincenzo , Santi Daniele , Casarini Livio
Published: May 2020

Context

Despite the new opportunities provided by assisted reproductive technology (ART), male infertility treatment is far from being optimized. One possibility, based on pathophysiological evidence, is to stimulate spermatogenesis with gonadotropins.

Evidence Acquisition

We conducted a comprehensive systematic PubMed literature review, up to January 2020, of studies evaluating the genetic basis of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) action, the role of FSH in spermatogenesis, and the effects of its administration in male infertility. Manuscripts evaluating the role of genetic polymorphisms and FSH administration in women undergoing ART were considered whenever relevant.

Evidence Synthesis

FSH treatment has been successfully used in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but with questionable results in idiopathic male infertility. A limitation of this approach is that treatment plans for male infertility have been borrowed from hypogonadism, without daring to overstimulate, as is done in women undergoing ART. FSH effectiveness depends not only on its serum levels, but also on individual genetic variants able to determine hormonal levels, activity, and receptor response. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSHB) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) genes have been described, with some of them affecting testicular volume and sperm output. The FSHR p.N680S and the FSHB –211G>T variants could be genetic markers to predict FSH response.

Conclusions

FSH may be helpful to increase sperm production in infertile men, even if the evidence to recommend the use of FSH in this setting is weak. Placebo-controlled clinical trials, considering the FSHB-FSHR haplotype, are needed to define the most effective dosage, the best treatment length, and the criteria to select candidate responder patients.
In the Haze
Authors: Cockain Alex
Published: May 2020

This article explores psychic experiences of air pollution and the ways these experiences have become narrated in various texts, especially but not exclusively those responding to one weekend in December 2013 when Shanghai purportedly experienced the highest levels of fine-particle, or PM2.5, pollution on record. This paper is also concerned, more generally, with processes associated with attempts to transform the messiness, or figurative haze, of fieldwork into an authoritative written account. These dual concerns—with air pollution and writing—are mutually informing since both seem to translate troubling, and often socially unacceptable, emotions into more presentable and tolerable forms. Through narrativization, namely acts of authorship and inscription, persons implicated in this article attempt to relieve, figuratively write over, or otherwise repress anxieties. While it is understandable, and perhaps even normal, to perpetuate such processes, this article argues we should engage rather than erase them since they not only animate persons and texts but also illuminate efforts to understand human responses to air pollution.
The Failures of SESTA/FOSTA
Authors: Mia Valentina
Published: May 2020

In this essay, now-retired performer Valentina Mia talks about her experiences transitioning and the conditions that led her to join the pornography industry. She interrogates the role of the Trump administration's SESTA/FOSTA legislation and calls for the full decriminalization of sex work.
Glucocorticoids rapidly inhibit cell migration through a novel, non-transcriptional HDAC6 pathway
Authors: Kershaw Stephen , Morgan David J. , Boyd James , Spiller David G. , Kitchen Gareth , Zindy Egor , Iqbal Mudassar , Rattray Magnus , Sanderson Christopher M. , Brass Andrew , Jorgensen Claus , Hussell Tracy , Matthews Laura C. , Ray David W.
Published: May 2020

Glucocorticoids (GCs) act through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR, also known as NR3C1) to regulate immunity, energy metabolism and tissue repair. Upon ligand binding, activated GR mediates cellular effects by regulating gene expression, but some GR effects can occur rapidly without new transcription. Here, we show that GCs rapidly inhibit cell migration, in response to both GR agonist and antagonist ligand binding. The inhibitory effect on migration is prevented by GR knockdown with siRNA, confirming GR specificity, but not by actinomycin D treatment, suggesting a non-transcriptional mechanism. We identified a rapid onset increase in microtubule polymerisation following GC treatment, identifying cytoskeletal stabilisation as the likely mechanism of action. HDAC6 overexpression, but not knockdown of αTAT1, rescued the GC effect, implicating HDAC6 as the GR effector. Consistent with this hypothesis, ligand-dependent cytoplasmic interaction between GR and HDAC6 was demonstrated by quantitative imaging. Taken together, we propose that activated GR inhibits HDAC6 function, and thereby increases the stability of the microtubule network to reduce cell motility. We therefore report a novel, non-transcriptional mechanism whereby GCs impair cell motility through inhibition of HDAC6 and rapid reorganization of the cell architecture.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Using aerobic exercise to evaluate sub-lethal tolerance of acute warming in fishes
Authors: Blasco Felipe R. , Esbaugh Andrew J. , Killen Shaun S. , Rantin Francisco Tadeu , Taylor Edwin W. , McKenzie David J.
Published: May 2020

We investigated whether fatigue from sustained aerobic swimming provides a sub-lethal endpoint to define tolerance of acute warming in fishes, as an alternative to loss of equilibrium (LOE) during a critical thermal maximum (CTmax) protocol. Two species were studied, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus). Each fish underwent an incremental swim test to determine gait transition speed (UGT), where it first engaged the unsteady anaerobic swimming mode that preceded fatigue. After suitable recovery, each fish was exercised at 85% of their own UGT and warmed 1°C every 30 min, to identify the temperature at which they fatigued, denoted as CTswim. Fish were also submitted to a standard CTmax, warming at the same rate as CTswim, under static conditions until LOE. All individuals fatigued in CTswim, at a mean temperature approximately 2°C lower than their CTmax. Therefore, if exposed to acute warming in the wild, the ability to perform aerobic metabolic work would be constrained at temperatures significantly below those that directly threatened survival. The collapse in performance at CTswim was preceded by a gait transition qualitatively indistinguishable from that during the incremental swim test. This suggests that fatigue in CTswim was linked to an inability to meet the tissue oxygen demands of exercise plus warming. This is consistent with the oxygen and capacity limited thermal tolerance (OCLTT) hypothesis, regarding the mechanism underlying tolerance of warming in fishes. Overall, fatigue at CTswim provides an ecologically relevant sub-lethal threshold that is more sensitive to extreme events than LOE at CTmax.
The Separation and Reunification of Germany: Rethinking a Natural Experiment Interpretation of the Enduring Effects of Communism
Authors: Becker Sascha O. , Mergele Lukas , Woessmann Ludger
Published: May 2020

German separation in 1949 into a communist East and a capitalist West and their reunification in 1990 are commonly described as a natural experiment to study the enduring effects of communism. We show in three steps that the populations in East and West Germany were far from being randomly selected treatment and control groups. First, the later border is already visible in many socio-economic characteristics in pre-World War II data. Second, World War II and the subsequent occupying forces affected East and West differently. Third, a selective fifth of the population fled from East to West Germany before the building of the Wall in 1961. In light of our findings, we propose a more cautious interpretation of the extensive literature on the enduring effects of communist systems on economic outcomes, political preferences, cultural traits, and gender roles.
Sociological Perspectives on Racial Discrimination
Authors: Small Mario L. , Pager Devah
Published: May 2020

As in economics, racial discrimination has long been a focus of research in sociology. Yet the disciplines traditionally have differed in how they approach the topic. While some studies in recent years show signs of cross-disciplinary influence, exposing more economists to sociological perspectives on racial discrimination would benefit both fields. We offer six propositions from the sociology of racial discrimination that we believe economists should note. We argue that independent of taste and statistical discrimination, economists should study institutional discrimination; that institutional discrimination can take at least two forms, organizational and legal; that in both forms the decisions of a contemporary actor to discriminate can be immaterial; that institutional discrimination is a vehicle through which past discrimination has contemporary consequences; that minor forms of everyday interpersonal discrimination can be highly consequential; and that whether actors perceive they have experienced discrimination deserves attention in its own right.
Evaluating State and Local Business Incentives
Authors: Slattery Cailin , Zidar Owen
Published: May 2020

This essay describes and evaluates state and local business tax incentives in the United States. In 2014, states spent between $5 and $216 per capita on incentives for firms in the form of firm-specific subsidies and general tax credits, which mostly target investment, job creation, and research and development. States with higher per capita incentives tend to have higher state corporate tax rates. Recipients of firm-specific incentives are usually large establishments in manufacturing, technology, and high-skilled service industries, and the average discretionary subsidy is $178M for 1,500 promised jobs. Firms tend to accept subsidy deals from places that are richer, larger, and more urban than the average county, and poor places provide larger incentives and spend more per job. Comparing winning and runner-up locations for each deal, we find that average employment within the three-digit industry of the deal increases by roughly 1,500 jobs. While we find some evidence of direct employment gains from attracting a firm, we do not find strong evidence that firm-specific tax incentives increase broader economic growth at the state and local level.
Predicting response and toxicity to PD-1 inhibition using serum autoantibodies identified from immuno-mass spectrometry
Authors: Music Milena , Iafolla Marco , Soosaipillai Antoninus , Batruch Ihor , Prassas Ioannis , Pintilie Melania , Hansen Aaron R. , Bedard Philippe L. , Lheureux Stephanie , Spreafico Anna , Razak Albiruni Abdul , Siu Lillian L. , Diamandis Eleftherios P.
Published: May 2020

Background: Validated biomarkers are needed to identify patients at increased risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Antibodies directed against endogenous antigens can change after exposure to ICB.

Methods: Patients with different solid tumors stratified into cohorts received pembrolizumab every 3 weeks in a Phase II trial (INSPIRE study). Blood samples were collected prior to first pembrolizumab exposure (baseline) and approximately 7 weeks (pre-cycle 3) into treatment. In a discovery analysis, autoantibody target immuno-mass spectrometry was performed in baseline and pre-cycle 3 pooled sera of 24 INSPIRE patients based on clinical benefit (CBR) and irAEs.

Results: Thyroglobulin (Tg) and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) were identified as the candidate autoantibody targets. In the overall cohort of 78 patients, the frequency of CBR and irAEs from pembrolizumab was 31% and 24%, respectively. Patients with an anti-Tg titer increase ≥1.5x from baseline to pre-cycle 3 were more likely to have irAEs relative to patients without this increase in unadjusted, cohort adjusted, and multivariable models (OR=17.4, 95% CI 1.8–173.8, p=0.015). Similarly, patients with an anti-TPO titer ≥ 1.5x from baseline to pre-cycle 3 were more likely to have irAEs relative to patients without the increase in unadjusted and cohort adjusted (OR=6.1, 95% CI 1.1–32.7, p=0.035) models. Further, the cohort adjusted analysis showed patients with anti-Tg titer greater than median (10.0 IU/mL) at pre-cycle 3 were more likely to have irAEs (OR=4.7, 95% CI 1.2–17.8, p=0.024). Patients with pre-cycle 3 anti-TPO titers greater than median (10.0 IU/mL) had a significant difference in overall survival (23.8 vs 11.5 months; HR=1.8, 95% CI 1.0–3.2, p=0.05).

Conclusions: Patient increase ≥1.5x of anti-Tg and anti-TPO titers from baseline to pre-cycle 3 were associated with irAEs from pembrolizumab, and patients with elevated pre-cycle 3 anti-TPO titers had an improvement in overall survival.
Intraspecific mitochondrial gene variation can be as low as that of nuclear rRNA
Authors: Matumba Tshifhiwa G. , Oliver Jody , Barker Nigel P. , McQuaid Christopher D. , Teske Peter R.
Published: May 2020

Background: Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has long been used to date historical demographic events. The idea that it is useful for molecular dating rests on the premise that its evolution is neutral. Even though this idea has long been challenged, the evidence against clock-like evolution of mtDNA is often ignored. Here, we present a particularly clear and simple example to illustrate the implications of violations of the assumption of selective neutrality.

Methods: DNA sequences were generated for the mtDNA COI gene and the nuclear 28S rRNA of two closely related rocky shore snails, and species-level variation was compared. To our knowledge, this is the first study to use nuclear rRNA at this taxonomic level, presumably because this marker is assumed to evolve so slowly that it is only suitable for phylogenetics.  

Results: Even though high inter-specific divergence reflected the faster evolutionary rate of COI, intraspecific genetic variation was similar for both markers. As a result, estimates of population expansion times based on mismatch distributions differed between the two markers by millions of years.

Conclusions: Assuming that 28S evolves effectively clock-like, these findings can be explained by variation-reducing purifying selection in mtDNA at the species level, and an elevated divergence rate caused by diversifying selection between the two species. Although these two selective forces together make mtDNA suitable as a marker for species identifications by means of DNA barcoding because they create a ‘barcoding gap’, estimates of demographic change based on this marker can be expected to be highly unreliable. Our study contributes to the growing evidence that the utility of mtDNA sequence data beyond DNA barcoding is limited.
Causal overstatements reduced in press releases following academic study of health news
Authors: Bratton Luke , Adams Rachel C. , Challenger Aimée , Boivin Jacky , Bott Lewis , Chambers Christopher D. , Sumner Petroc
Published: May 2020

Background: Exaggerations in health news were previously found to strongly associate with similar exaggerations in press releases. Moreover such exaggerations did not appear to attract more news. Here we assess whether press release practice changed after these reported findings; simply drawing attention to the issue may be insufficient for practical change, given the challenges of media environments.

Methods: We assessed whether rates of causal over-statement in press releases based on correlational data were lower following a widely publicised paper on the topic, compared to an equivalent baseline period in the preceding year.

Results: We found that over-statements in press releases were 28% (95% confidence interval = 16% to 45%) in 2014 and 13% (95% confidence interval = 6% to 25%) in 2015. A corresponding numerical reduction in exaggerations in news was not significant. The association between over-statements in news and press releases remained strong.

Conclusions: Press release over-statements were less frequent following publication of Sumner et al. (2014). However, this is correlational evidence and the reduction may be due to other factors or natural fluctuations.
Finding Useful Solutions in Online Knowledge Communities: A Theory-Driven Design and Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Liu Xiaomo , Wang G. Alan , Fan Weiguo , Zhang Zhongju
Published: May 2020

In this study, we utilize a kernel theory of knowledge adoption model and propose a novel text analytic framework to classify the usefulness of solutions in online knowledge communities. The study combines multiple disciplines (behavioral, empirical, design science, and technical) to tackle an important and relevant business problem: how to effectively manage an online knowledge repository and identify useful solutions. Our framework can be implemented in online knowledge communities to improve users’ experience of searching for useful knowledge. The proposed framework has the potential to guide the development of customer-facing chatbots, which understand human-language questions and return helpful answers immediately.
Price of Anarchy in Networks with Heterogeneous Latency Functions
Authors: Kapoor Sanjiv , Shin Junghwan
Published: May 2020

We address the performance of selfish network routing in multicommodity flows where the latency or delay function on edges is dependent on the flow of individual commodities, rather than on the aggregate flow. An application of this study is the analysis of a network with differentiated traffic, that is, in transportation networks where there are multiple types of traffic and in networks where traffic is prioritized according to type classification. We consider the inefficiency of equilibrium in this model and provide price of anarchy bounds for networks with k (types of) commodities, where each link is associated with heterogeneous polynomial delays, that is, commodity i on edge e faces delay specified by a multivariate polynomial dependent on the individual flow of each commodity on the edge. We consider both atomic and nonatomic flows and show bounds on the price of anarchy that depend on the relative impact of each type of traffic on the edge delay when the delay functions are polynomials of degree θ, for example, [Formula: see text]. The price of anarchy is unbounded for arbitrary polynomials. For networks with decomposable delay functions where the delay is the same for all commodities using the edge, we show improved bounds on the price of anarchy, for both nonatomic and atomic flows. The results illustrate that the inefficiency of selfish routing worsens in the case of heterogeneous delays compared with the standard delay functions that do not consider type differentiation.
Integration of Adjectives to Learn Grammatical Gender for Object Categorization in Urdu for Balti Speakers
Authors: Basit Abdul
Published: May 2020

This quantitative research is an attempt to explore the possibilities to decrease the level of difficulty for Balti language speakers in object categorization while they learn Urdu language as their L2. Purpose of this research is to know that how chunking technique can help the Balti speakers remember the grammatical gender of different inanimate objects while keeping in mind their adjective-noun pairs. This is an experimental study and population for this research is comprised of all Balti language speakers living in Lahore. Simple random sampling technique is used to select the sample and teaching sessions are conducted by the researcher to teach experimental and controlled groups. Findings of this study show that chunking technique is beneficial to be used for L2 learners of Urdu language especially if their L1 doesn’t have the concept of grammatical gender. In conclusion, it is recommended through this research to apply the same technique of linking adjectives with nouns in pedagogical approach for the Balti speakers who intend learn Urdu as their L2 with the help of their curriculum.
The Implementation of Communicative Language Teaching in English Practice
Authors: Sabrina Arini
Published: May 2020

2013 Curriculum now has been implemented so widely in Indonesia, especially in English teaching and learning process. It delineates some focal points like student-centred active learning and contextual teaching which hopefully brings the students to learn more effectively. Furthermore, there is an apparent unanimity that the curriculum may lead the meaningfulness of learning. In relation to English teaching approach, Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is likened to the latest curriculum. CLT emphasises on the context and authenticity. Thus, this approach should go along with 2013 Curriculum. This study aims at finding out the implementation of CLT in line with the curriculum, since many previous studies alert some problems happening while CLT is applied not in ESL as its birthplace, yet in EFL context. In fact, Indonesia perceives English as foreign language. But, there are still few studies related to this approach. After observation and document tracking are conducted, it is concluded that Scientific Approach and Communicative Language Teaching Approach are able to blend to create more effective communicative learning.
Early Childhood Bilingualism: The Myths, Truths, and Implications in English Language Learning in Pontianak
Authors: Fiktorius Teddy
Published: May 2020

The paper explicates the immediate concern of gaining a deeper insight of language acquisition in the early childhood bilingualism in the setting of Pontianak city, a multi-ethnic city located in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is written through descriptive method or library research to provide the readers, especially the parents and teachers with better insights into a basis for decision making about raising and educating children bilingually. The first part elaborates on four myths, namely the myth of the monolingual brain, the myth of time investment, the myth of bilingualism and language impairment; and the myth of minority language children. It is followed by the argumentative support by the experts in the fields based on the literature review. Next, discussions are presented as a whole, pointing out some of significant implications for parents and teachers. Finally, an overall conclusion of the paper coverage is provided.
Verification of expected death in the community: role of the community specialist practitioner
Authors: Ormandy-Brooks Lianne
Published: May 2020

In 2019, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and Queen's Nursing Institute (QNI) recognised a significant reduction in the number of qualified district nurses (those who hold the Community Specialist Practitioner (CSP) qualification). Community nursing is an evolving role, and, with the role of community nurse expanding, the role of the CSP in supporting teams to adapt to the development of the role is more important than ever. As a leader, the CSP possesses skills in leadership and co-ordination of the team, alongside specialist knowledge of the provision of nursing care in community settings. This article seeks to explore the hidden practice of verification of expected adult deaths by registered nurses and how the CSP role is integral in developing and embedding this skill within a team.
Nappy rash: current evidence for the prevention and management
Authors: Lawton Sandra
Published: May 2020

Nappy rash affects up to 25% of nappy wearing infants and can be distressing for the infant, their family and carers. This paper focuses on the cause, prevention, diagnosis and management of nappy rash based on current evidence and guidance to provide optimum care and advice antenatally and postnatally. The aim is to shed light on assessment, diagnosis, self-management and therapeutic options to prevent, manage and treat nappy rash. Although common, nappy rash can provide diagnostic challenges. Thus, the paper will highlight further potential causes of nappy rash and when to seek further advice and guidance.
Research Roundup
Authors: Heggs Karen
Published: May 2020

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care
Aesthetic tweakments: the rise of the ‘fox eye’
Authors: Mcalees Melissa
Published: May 2020

The non-surgical aesthetics industry has gained momentum in the past few years due to open discussions and less downtime compared to surgical procedures. Melissa McAlees details some current trends and treatments that are being sought
Primary School Students’ Attitudes towards Science
Authors: Cermik Hulya , Fenli-Aktan Aslihan
Published: May 2020

This study aims to find out the attitude levels of the fourth grade primary school students towards science and to examine these attitudes according to some variables. The study is designed in descriptive survey model to reveal the present situation.  The data were collected through Attitude towards Science Scale, a three-point Likert scale developed by the researchers. A total of 562 students participated in the study. The findings of the study demonstrate that the students' attitudes towards science, which are based on two dimensions including scientific discovery and scientific curiosity, are positive. The students' attitudes towards science do not differ statistically according to their gender. However, their attitudes towards science show statistically significant differences according to whether the students follow a scientific magazine or not, whether they study at a public or private school, whether their mothers are a teacher or not and the educational level of their parents. It is believed that the results will contribute to raising generations with positive attitudes towards science.
CRÉDITO RURAL E IMPACTO SOBRE O VALOR DA PRODUÇÃO AGROPECUÁRIA: uma análise para agricultores não familiares
Authors: Eusébio Gabriela dos Santos , Maia Alexandre Gori , Silveira Rodrigo Lanna Franco da
Published: May 2020

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o impacto do acesso ao crédito rural no desempenho econômico dos estabelecimentos agropecuários não familiares no Brasil. Comparou-se, assim, o valor da produção agrícola dos produtores não familiares que acessaram ou não crédito rural, controlando as características do agricultor e do negócio. As análises se basearam nos microdados do Censo Agropecuário de 2006 do IBGE, com um total de 796.422 estabelecimentos. Para considerar as relações de dupla causalidade entre crédito e produção agropecuária, aplicou-se o método em dois estágios. Verificou-se que a obtenção de capital de terceiros impactou positivamente a produção agropecuária. Houve ainda evidências de que a intensidade de tal influência variou conforme a fonte de crédito obtido e entre as diferentes regiões brasileiras.
MUDANÇAS NO MODELO DE NEGÓCIO E ALINHAMENTO DA ESTRUTURA ORGANIZACIONAL
Authors: Oliveira José Turíbio , Crispim Sérgio Feliciano
Published: May 2020

O presente artigo explora o alinhamento da estrutura organizacional decorrente de mudanças significativas nos modelos de negócios. Realizou-se estudo de casos múltiplos com três empresas de grande porte visando identificar as mudanças da estrutura para suportar os novos modelos de negócios. Conclui-se que: a) as empresas alteraram significativamente seus modelos de negócios e as estruturas organizacionais passaram por modificações importantes; b) os quatro componentes das estruturas organizacionais (posições, superestrutura, vínculos laterais e sistema de decisão) foram alterados; c) a adoção das novas estruturas ocorreu simultaneamente às alterações nos modelos de negócios; d) a estrutura Divisionada com serviços compartilhados foi adotada pelas empresas; e) as empresas relataram que se as estruturas organizacionais não tivessem sido alteradas, os modelos de negócios significativamente alterados não teriam sucesso; f) as novas estruturas adotaram delegação de poder, gerando proximidade com clientes e desenvolvimento de produtos específicos, além de sentimento de maior envolvimento das pessoas.
Distribution of Gyrinops versteegii (Gilg.) Domke in varying vegetation structures, soil properties, and microclimates in Manggarai, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara
Authors: Yulistyarini Titut , Fiqa Abban Putri , Budiharta Sugeng , Rindyastuti Ridesti
Published: May 2020

Abstract. Yulistyarini T, Fiqa AP, Budiharta S, Rindyastuti R. 2020. Distribution of Gyrinops versteegii in varying vegetation structures, soil properties, and microclimates in western part of Flores Island, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 21: 1800-1808. Gyrinops versteegii is one of the agarwood-producing tropical plants that is distributed in the Lesser Sunda Islands to Sulawesi, Moluccas (Maluku), and Papua. The natural population of Gyrinops versteegii (Gilg.) Domke is widely exploited, making it being listed in CITES Appendix II. Despite largely exploited, information regarding the distribution of G. versteegii to reveal the habitat characteristics of its natural population is limited. The aims of the research were (i) to investigate the habitat characteristics of the distribution of G. versteegii in term of vegetation community, as well as soil and microclimate variables in its natural habitat in western part of Flores Island, and (ii) to study the relationship between its occurrence and ecological factors. The research was conducted in one community forest and three natural forests in the districts of Manggarai and West Manggarai, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. Data on vegetation, soil properties and microclimates were collected by establishing 73 observation plots across the four studied areas. Data were analyzed to reveal vegetation composition and structure where G. versteegii occurred, the dispersion pattern, and relationship between its occurrence and ecological factors. Our study revealed that G. versteegii populations at four studied areas in Flores Island were distributed in a broad range of habitat characteristics with varying vegetation compositions and structures, canopy covers as well as soil and microclimates variables. The local/metapopulations of G. versteegii in these areas can be dispersed in clumped or uniform pattern. Nonetheless, some ecological variables might be important for the abundance of this species including soil texture, soil pH, C organic and Soil Organic Matters (SOM). The results of this study suggest a promising opportunity for the conservation efforts of G. versteegii through the possibility of planting this species in various land management including planted in monoculture system, polyculture system (e.g. home garden and agroforestry) as well as reintroduced into species-rich natural forest.