bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Self-reported and parent proxy reported functional impairment among pediatric cancer survivors and controls
Authors: Erickson Sarah J. , Hile Sarah , Kubinec Nicole , Annett Robert D. 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
A unique and limiting component in the research on functional impairment among children has been the exclusive use of parent proxy reports about child functioning; and there is limited information regarding the impact of pediatric cancer treatment on children’s day-to-day functioning and how this is related to neurocognitive functioning. The objective of the current study was to examine a novel measure of self-reported functional impairment, and explore the relationship between self-reported and parent-reported child functional impairment in pediatric cancer survivors compared to controls.

Methods
A cross-sectional cohort of survivors (n = 26) and controls (n = 53) were recruited. Survivors were off treatment an average of 6.35 years (SD = 5.38; range 1–15 years) and demonstrated an average “medium” Central Nervous System treatment intensity score. Participants completed measures of functional impairment (FI), intellectual assessment (RIST) and executive functions (NIH Examiner), while parents reported on children’s functional impairment.

Results
Survivors were similar to controls in functional impairment. Regardless of group membership, self-reported FI was higher than parent-reported FI, although they were correlated and parent report of FI significantly predicted self-reported FI. Across groups, increased impairment was associated with four of seven Examiner scores.

Conclusions
Research regarding self-reported functional impairment of cancer survivors and its association with parent-reported functional impairment and neurocognitive deficits has been limited. Our results suggest that self-reported FI appears to be a reasonable and viable outcome measure that corresponds with and adds incremental validity to parent reported FI. While low treatment intensity may confer relative sparing of functional impairment among survivors, children report higher FI levels than parents, suggesting that FI can be of clinical utility. In conclusion, pediatric cancer survivors should be screened for self-reported functional difficulties.
Age-related differences in white matter diffusion measures in autism spectrum condition
Authors: Thompson Abigail , Shahidiani Asal , Fritz Anne , O’Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Walker Lindsay , D’Almeida Vera , Murphy Clodagh , Daly Eileen , Murphy Declan , Williams Steve , Deoni Sean , Ecker Christine 
Published: May 2020

AbstractBackgroundAutism spectrum condition (ASC) is accompanied by developmental differences in brain anatomy and connectivity. White matter differences in ASC have been widely studied with diffusion imaging but results are heterogeneous and vary across the age range of study participants and varying methodological approaches. To characterize the neurodevelopmental trajectory of white matter maturation, it is necessary to examine a broad age range of individuals on the autism spectrum and typically developing controls, and investigate age × group interactions.MethodsHere, we employed a spatially unbiased tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) approach to examine age-related differences in white matter connectivity in a sample of 41 individuals with ASC, and 41 matched controls between 7–17 years of age.ResultsWe found significant age-related differences between the ASC and control group in widespread brain regions. This included age-related differences in the uncinate fasciculus, corticospinal tract, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, anterior thalamic radiation, superior longitudinal fasciculus and forceps major. Measures of fractional anisotropy (FA) were significantly positively associated with age in both groups. However, this relationship was significantly stronger in the ASC group relative to controls. Measures of radial diffusivity (RD) were significantly negatively associated with age in both groups, but this relationship was significantly stronger in the ASC group relative to controls.LimitationsThe generalisability of our findings is limited by the restriction of the sample to right-handed males with an IQ > 70. Furthermore, a longitudinal design would be required to fully investigate maturational processes across this age group.ConclusionsTaken together, our findings suggest that autistic males have an altered trajectory of white matter maturation relative to controls. Future longitudinal analyses are required to further characterize the extent and time course of these differences.
Activity landscape image analysis using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Iqbal Javed , Vogt Martin , Bajorath Jürgen 
Published: May 2020

AbstractActivity landscapes (ALs) are graphical representations that combine compound similarity and activity data. ALs are constructed for visualizing local and global structure–activity relationships (SARs) contained in compound data sets. Three-dimensional (3D) ALs are reminiscent of geographical maps where differences in landscape topology mirror different SAR characteristics. 3D AL models can be stored as differently formatted images and are thus amenable to image analysis approaches, which have thus far not been considered in the context of graphical SAR analysis. In this proof-of-concept study, 3D ALs were constructed for a variety of compound activity classes and 3D AL image variants of varying topology and information content were generated and classified. To these ends, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) were initially applied to images of original 3D AL models with color-coding reflecting compound potency information that were taken from different viewpoints. Images of 3D AL models were transformed into variants from which one-dimensional features were extracted. Other machine learning approaches including support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) algorithms were applied to derive models on the basis of such features. In addition, SVM and RF models were trained using other features obtained from images through edge filtering. Machine learning was able to accurately distinguish between 3D AL image variants with different topology and information content. Overall, CNNs which directly learned feature representations from 3D AL images achieved highest classification accuracy. Predictive performance for CNN, SVM, and RF models was highest for image variants emphasizing topological elevation. In addition, SVM models trained on rudimentary images from edge filtering classified such images with high accuracy, which further supported the critical role of altitude-dependent topological features for image analysis and predictions. Taken together, the findings of our proof-of-concept investigation indicate that image analysis has considerable potential for graphical SAR exploration to systematically infer different SAR characteristics from topological features of 3D ALs.
Productivity beyond density: A critique of management models for reindeer pastoralism in Norway
Authors: Marin Andrei , Sjaastad Espen , Benjaminsen Tor A. , Sara Mikkel Nils M. , Borgenvik Erik Johan Langfeldt 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThe official governance of the reindeer pastoralist system in the north of Norway relies overwhelmingly on one central argument: that in order to maintain a sustainable system, maximum numbers and densities of reindeer, as well as certain herd structures, should be upheld. If these indicators are ignored, the argument goes, the consequences are resource degradation and economic collapse. Even though this argument has been challenged by both researchers and reindeer herders across Fennoscandia, it continues to dominate management policies and practice. Here we set out to investigate the validity of the premise that there is a strong relationship between density and carcass weights over the whole of Finnmark, based on official data. We find that although the relationship is present, its explanatory power is not very strong in a variety of circumstances and propose that it therefore cannot be used to frame important governance policies for the whole system. We also critically reflect on the model’s goal of high productivity per capita of reindeer (high carcass weight). We suggest that productivity per area unit can be at least as relevant as carcass weights and perhaps a better indicator for pastoralist systems in general. For the Finnmark pastoralist system, we argue, a measure of productivity in kilogrammes per square kilometer reveals a different picture: rather than being a failed system marred by suffering animals and low economic returns, reindeer herding in Western Finnmark becomes the most productive in Norway. This shift of focus is likely relevant for other pastoralist systems where governance is premised on similar arguments.
Distinct actions of the fermented beverage kefir on host behaviour, immunity and microbiome gut-brain modules in the mouse
Authors: van de Wouw Marcel , Walsh Aaron M. , Crispie Fiona , van Leuven Lucas , Lyte Joshua M. , Boehme Marcus , Clarke Gerard , Dinan Timothy G. , Cotter Paul D. , Cryan John F. 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
Mounting evidence suggests a role for the gut microbiota in modulating brain physiology and behaviour, through bi-directional communication, along the gut-brain axis. As such, the gut microbiota represents a potential therapeutic target for influencing centrally mediated events and host behaviour. It is thus notable that the fermented milk beverage kefir has recently been shown to modulate the composition of the gut microbiota in mice. It is unclear whether kefirs have differential effects on microbiota-gut-brain axis and whether they can modulate host behaviour per se.

Methods
To address this, two distinct kefirs (Fr1 and UK4), or unfermented milk control, were administered to mice that underwent a battery of tests to characterise their behavioural phenotype. In addition, shotgun metagenomic sequencing of ileal, caecal and faecal matter was performed, as was faecal metabolome analysis. Finally, systemic immunity measures and gut serotonin levels were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed by ANOVA followed by Dunnett's post hoc test or Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Mann-Whitney U test.

Results
Fr1 ameliorated the stress-induced decrease in serotonergic signalling in the colon and reward-seeking behaviour in the saccharin preference test. On the other hand, UK4 decreased repetitive behaviour and ameliorated stress-induced deficits in reward-seeking behaviour. Furthermore, UK4 increased fear-dependent contextual memory, yet decreased milk gavage-induced improvements in long-term spatial learning. In the peripheral immune system, UK4 increased the prevalence of Treg cells and interleukin 10 levels, whereas Fr1 ameliorated the milk gavage stress-induced elevation in neutrophil levels and CXCL1 levels. Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that both kefirs significantly changed the composition and functional capacity of the host microbiota, where specific bacterial species were changed in a kefir-dependent manner. Furthermore, both kefirs increased the capacity of the gut microbiota to produce GABA, which was linked to an increased prevalence in Lactobacillus reuteri.

Conclusions
Altogether, these data show that kefir can signal through the microbiota-gut-immune-brain axis and modulate host behaviour. In addition, different kefirs may direct the microbiota toward distinct immunological and behavioural modulatory effects. These results indicate that kefir can positively modulate specific aspects of the microbiota-gut-brain axis and support the broadening of the definition of psychobiotic to include kefir fermented foods.
Journeying to freedom: the spatial ecology of a reintroduced population of Orinoco crocodiles (Crocodylus intermedius) in Colombia
Authors: Moreno-Arias Rafael A. , Ardila-Robayo María Cristina 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
The Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius) is the largest crocodile and the most threatened by extinction in the Neotropics due to overexploitation for the skin trade during the early–middle twentieth century. Knowledge of their ecology is poor in Colombia because long-term armed conflict has restricted fieldwork. In 2015, we reintroduced four captive-reared adult crocodiles, each equipped with a Sirtrack KiwiSat 202 satellite transmitter and monitored their movements from 2015 to 2018.

Results
Seasonal movements were as far 177 km in males and 115 km in females. Home ranges were as large as 55 km2 for males and 16 km2 for females for a single year and 178 km2 and 21 km2, respectively, for males and females over 2 years. Spatial ecological patterns changed drastically by season, with males increasing their home range and females reducing home range during the wet season. We confirmed that daily activity patterns defined as measure by number of locations across the day were not influenced by season.

Conclusions
We believe that seasonal changes in the size and shape of home ranges were associated with patrolling or exploratory behaviors after release, while daily activity behavior was independent of season, sex or size of the animal.
Progressive lysosomal membrane permeabilization induced by iron oxide nanoparticles drives hepatic cell autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: Levada Kateryna , Pshenichnikov Stanislav , Omelyanchik Alexander , Rodionova Valeria , Nikitin Aleksey , Savchenko Alexander , Schetinin Igor , Zhukov Dmitry , Abakumov Maxim , Majouga Alexander , Lunova Mariia , Jirsa Milan , Smolková Barbora , Uzhytchak Mariia , Dejneka Alexandr , Lunov Oleg 
Published: May 2020

AbstractIron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) are frequently used in various biomedical applications, in particular as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents in liver imaging. Indeed, number of IONs have been withdrawn due to their poor clinical performance. Yet comprehensive understanding of their interactions with hepatocytes remains relatively limited. Here we investigated how iron oxide nanocubes (IO-cubes) and clusters of nanocubes (IO-clusters) affect distinct human hepatic cell lines. The viability of HepG2, Huh7 and Alexander cells was concentration-dependently decreased after exposure to either IO-cubes or IO-clusters. We found similar cytotoxicity levels in three cell lines triggered by both nanoparticle formulations. Our data indicate that different expression levels of Bcl-2 predispose cell death signaling mediated by nanoparticles. Both nanoparticles induced rather apoptosis than autophagy in HepG2. Contrary, IO-cubes and IO-clusters trigger distinct cell death signaling events in Alexander and Huh7 cells. Our data clarifies the mechanism by which cubic nanoparticles induce autophagic flux and the mechanism of subsequent toxicity. These findings imply that the cytotoxicity of ION-based contrast agents should be carefully considered, particularly in patients with liver diseases.
Faculty persistence with research-based instructional strategies: a case study of participation in a faculty online learning community
Authors: Corrales Adriana , Goldberg Fred , Price Edward , Turpen Chandra 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
Incorporating research-based instructional strategies (RBISs) into college classrooms is essential for improving learning outcomes. However, the rate of implementation of new strategies is quite low. The development and dissemination model of introducing faculty to new strategies has shown to be inadequate in encouraging uptake and consistent use of those strategies. This model lacks the ongoing support that has shown to be exceedingly important in the adoption and persistent use of new strategies. In addition, this model ignores the necessity of adaptation of RBISs due to differences in teaching situations including availability of particular resources or different student populations. Faculty online learning communities (FOLCs) are online collaborative faculty groups that provide continued support in order to fill this gap. This case study explores one FOLC member’s adoption of a research-based physical science curriculum as they reflect on their teaching experiences. We operationalize Rodgers’ cycle of reflection to make sense of these changes. Specifically, the study aims to understand how the focal faculty member’s participation in reflection in the context of the FOLC changes over time.

Results
Analysis via Rodgers’ reflection framework revealed changes in the way Leslie participated in reflection within the context of the FOLC. The faculty participant optimized her teaching practice through iterative cycles of reflection with the FOLC cluster. As a result, she became more satisfied with the curriculum and her implementation over time.

Conclusions
Faculty encounter challenges when adopting RBISs that must be addressed in real time. Reflection accompanied by ongoing community support via the Next Gen PET FOLC can provide support for changes in practice and increase faculty satisfaction with RBISs. The results contribute to evidence that community building and ongoing support in implementing new curricula is integral to the adaptation process, and FOLCs can provide that support to sustain long-term change.
Natural selection, selective breeding, and the evolution of resistance of honeybees (Apis mellifera) against Varroa
Authors: van Alphen Jacques J. M. , Fernhout Bart Jan 
Published: May 2020

AbstractWe examine evidence for natural selection resulting in Apis mellifera becoming tolerant or resistant to Varroa mites in different bee populations. We discuss traits implicated in Varroa resistance and how they can be measured. We show that some of the measurements used are ambiguous, as they measure a combination of traits. In addition to behavioural traits, such as removal of infested pupae, grooming to remove mites from bees or larval odours, small colony size, frequent swarming, and smaller brood cell size may also help to reduce reproductive rates of Varroa. Finally, bees may be tolerant of high Varroa infections when they are resistant or tolerant to viruses implicated in colony collapse. We provide evidence that honeybees are an extremely outbreeding species. Mating structure is important for how natural selection operates. Evidence for successful natural selection of resistance traits against Varroa comes from South Africa and from Africanized honeybees in South America. Initially, Varroa was present in high densities and killed about 30% of the colonies, but soon after its spread, numbers per hive decreased and colonies survived without treatment. This shows that natural selection can result in resistance in large panmictic populations when a large proportion of the population survives the initial Varroa invasion. Natural selection in Europe and North America has not resulted in large-scale resistance. Upon arrival of Varroa, the frequency of traits to counter mites and associated viruses in European honey bees was low. This forced beekeepers to protect bees by chemical treatment, hampering natural selection. In a Swedish experiment on natural selection in an isolated mating population, only 7% of the colonies survived, resulting in strong inbreeding. Other experiments with untreated, surviving colonies failed because outbreeding counteracted the effects of selection. If loss of genetic variation is prevented, colony level selection in closed mating populations can proceed more easily, as natural selection is not counteracted by the dispersal of resistance genes. In large panmictic populations, selective breeding can be used to increase the level of resistance to a threshold level at which natural selection can be expected to take over.
Carbonate dual-phase improves the performance of single-layer fuel cell made from mixed ionic and semiconductor composite
Authors: Jouttijärvi S. , Yao X. , Asghar M. I. , Etula J. , Reinecke A.-M. , Lippmann W. , Lund P. D. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractA mixed ionic and semiconducting composite in a single-layer configuration has been shown to work as a fuel cell at a lower temperature (500–600 °C) than a traditional solid-oxide fuel cell. The performance of a single-layer fuel cell (SLFC) is often limited by high resistive losses. Here, a eutectic mixture of alkali-carbonates was added to SLFC to improve the ionic conductivity. The dual-phase composite ionic conductor consisted of a ternary carbonate (sodium lithium potassium carbonate, NLKC) mixed with gadolinium-doped cerium oxide (GDC). Lithium nickel zinc oxide (LNZ) was used as the semiconducting material. The LNZ-GDC-NLKC SLFC reached a high power density, 582 mW/cm2(conductivity 0.22 S/cm) at 600 °C, which is 30 times better than without the carbonate. The best results were obtained with the ternary carbonate which decreased the ohmic losses of the cell by more than 95%, whereas the SLFC with a binary carbonate (sodium lithium carbonate, NLC) showed a lower conductivity and performance (243 mW/cm2, 0.17 S/cm at 600 °C). It is concluded that adding carbonates to LNZ-GDC will improve the ionic conductivity and positively contribute to the cell performance. These results suggest a potential path for further development of SLFCs, but also imply the need for efforts on up-scaling and stability to produce practical applications with SLFC.
Egyptian Association of Vascular Biology and Atherosclerosis (EAVA) consensus on the usage of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors
Authors: Reda Ashraf , Elserafy Ahmed Shawky , Farag Elsayed , Mostafa Tamer , Farag Nabil , Elbahry Atef , Sanad Osama , Bendary Ahmed , Elkersh Ahmed , Selim Mohammed , Beshay Morad , Khamis Hazem 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
The current expert view of the PCSK9 inhibitors’ use in Egypt is still ambiguous.

Main body
Hyperlipidemia is an important, if not the most important, risk factor for the occurrence of atherosclerosis worldwide. Egypt is the most populous country in the Middle East and North Africa and has > 15% of the cardiovascular deaths in the region. The burden of dyslipidemia as seen in the recently published CardioRisk project conducted throughout Egypt shows a high prevalence of dyslipidemia as a risk factor that is still reaching up to 71% in female participants. Reaching the targets for LDL lowering, and thus control of hyperlipidemia, is quite often very difficult especially with the update of the last ESC guidelines. With the advent of PCSK9 inhibitors, the control rate of patients, reduction of cardiac major adverse events, and mortality have been improved. However, Egypt is not considered a rich country on the grounds of annual income, and this raises a concern on which patients would benefit from these expensive medications. Revising the randomized control trials, we analyzed the data that would enable us to control LDL in those patients, at risk, to obtain simple clear indications for the use of these rather expensive medications.

Conclusion
We recommend the use of PCSK9 inhibitors in addition to statins ± ezetimibe in patients with ASCVD, by definition at very high risk; patients with ASCVD at very high risk who do not tolerate appropriate doses of at least three statins; and familial hypercholesterolaemia patients with clinically diagnosed ASCVD, at very high cardiovascular risk.