bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Holding the government to account for its finances: the “Unsung” heroes of the UK parliament scrutiny unit
Authors: Ferry Laurence , Honeysett Larry , Midgley Henry 
Published: January 2021

PurposeThis paper describes the role and remit of the Scrutiny Unit, which assists members of parliament (MPs) with the analysis of accounting data.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis is developed through an understanding of the secondary literature and practical experience of the work of the Unit.FindingsThe Scrutiny Unit is an unappreciated and yet vital part of the way in which financial scrutiny operates within the UK parliament. It translates to MPs key financial and economic documents including the budget and accounts. It is a unique institution, covering the entire financial cycle of approval and accountability within parliament.Originality/valueThis is the first descriptive piece on the Unit in an accounting journal and contributes to our understanding of how financial accountability works within the UK parliament.
Genome‐enabled exploration of microbial ecology and evolution in the sea: a rising tide lifts all boats
Authors: DeLong Edward F. 
Published: January 2021

SummaryAs a young bacteriologist just launching my career during the early days of the ‘microbial revolution’ in the 1980s, I was fortunate to participate in some early discoveries, and collaborate in the development of cross‐disciplinary methods now commonly referred to as "metagenomics". My early scientific career focused on applying phylogenetic and genomic approaches to characterize ‘wild’ bacteria, archaea and viruses in their natural habitats, with an emphasis on marine systems. These central interests have not changed very much for me over the past three decades, but knowledge, methodological advances and new theoretical perspectives about the microbial world certainly have. In this invited ‘How we did it’ perspective, I trace some of the trajectories of my lab's collective efforts over the years, including phylogenetic surveys of microbial assemblages in marine plankton and sediments, development of microbial community gene‐ and genome‐enabled surveys, and application of genome‐guided, cultivation‐independent functional characterization of novel enzymes, pathways and their relationships to in situ biogeochemistry. Throughout this short review, I attempt to acknowledge, all the mentors, students, postdocs and collaborators who enabled this research. Inevitably, a brief autobiographical review like this cannot be fully comprehensive, so sincere apologies to any of my great colleagues who are not explicitly mentioned herein. I salute you all as well!
Proton‐transfer‐reaction time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (PTR‐TOF‐MS) as a tool for studying animal volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions
Authors: Portillo‐Estrada Miguel , Van Moorleghem Charlotte , Janssenswillen Sunita , Cooper Richard Joseph , Birkemeyer Claudia , Roelants Kim , Van Damme Raoul 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Chemical sensing in vertebrates is crucial in their lives, and efforts are undertaken towards deciphering their chemical language. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals believed to play an essential role in a wide variety of animal interactions. Therefore, understanding what animals sense themselves and untangling the ecological role of their volatile cues can be accomplished by analysing VOC emissions. A proton‐transfer‐reaction time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (PTR‐TOF‐MS) is an instrument that measures VOCs in real‐time in an air sample. Since this technique acts as a hyper‐sensitive ‘nose’ it has a similar potential in deciphering the chemical language of vertebrates.

Here, we validate the use of PTR‐TOF‐MS as a tool to measure VOCs from vertebrates, which in turn will help resolve vertebrate interactions through VOCs. The instrument monitors and records the full spectrum of VOCs emitted by an individual with a high accuracy and low detection limit, including transient VOC emissions. We propose and test diverse measuring configurations that allow for measurement of VOC emissions from different vertebrates and their exudates: full body, specific parts of the body, urine and femoral pores. In addition, we test configurations for sudden and short‐lasting processes as VOCs emitted during adder skin shedding as well as the emissions of skin secretions upon mechanical and physiological stimulation in amphibia. Our configurations work in tandem with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) to allow compound structure verification.

We discuss the configurations and methodologies used and conclude with recommendations for further studies, such as the choice of chamber size and flow. We also report the results of the measurements on vertebrates—that are novel to science—and discuss their ecological meaning.

We argue that PTR‐TOF‐MS has a high potential to resolve important unanswered questions in vertebrate chemical ecology with great adaptability to a wide range of experimental set‐ups. If combined with a structure verification tool, such as GC‐MS, the creative deployment of PTR‐TOF‐MS in various future study designs will lead to the identification of ecologically relevant VOCs.
A review of seascape complexity indices and their performance in coral and rocky reefs
Authors: Lazarus Mai , Belmaker Jonathan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Seascape complexity is an important driver of ecological processes in marine systems. Today, high‐resolution, multiscale bathymetric data are being collected due to rapid advances in marine technologies and image processing, drastically improving the detailed mapping of the physical structure of the seascape. However, these data are rarely synthesized to create comprehensive complexity estimates, and complexity is still mostly measured using a small set of simple indices.

The aims of this study are to: (a) review existing seascape complexity indices and propose innovative indices designed to capture the marine organism perspective, (b) quantify the interrelationships among these complexity indices; (c) test the performance of these indices in explaining fish assemblage structure; and (d) provide R code to easily reproduce the indices. Seascape bottom topography for this study was quantified using digital depth recordings along transects in Mediterranean sub‐tropical rocky reefs and Red Sea tropical coral reefs. These were used to generate complexity indices that were then compared to visually surveyed fish assemblages.

We found that several common indices captured similar complexity facets, while an innovative family of structural diversity indices, representing the diversity of physical elements, captured distinct complexity facets not represented by existing indices. No single index was consistently superior; however, vertical relief was consistently included as a top predictor of fish assemblage structure. Interestingly, the most commonly used index, rugosity, was a poor predictor.

We suggest a new, distinct set of structural diversity indices that may explain considerable variation in fish assemblages. The results suggest that several indices may need to be combined to capture the full influence of complexity on marine diversity and caution against the use of a single ‘universal’ index. While bathymetric data are increasingly being collected at high resolutions and increasing scales, synthesizing these data requires the use of appropriate complexity indices. The guidelines and recommendations presented here, along with the supplemental R code, will facilitate progress towards a more complete representation of different complexity facets.
Chyle leak following pancreatico‐duodenectomy: a tertiary hepatopancreaticobiliary unit's experience and a proposed management algorithm
Authors: Russell Thomas , Tanase Andrei , Bowles Matthew , Briggs Christopher , Kanwar Aditya , Stell David , Aroori Somaiah 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundChyle leak (CL) is an uncommon complication of pancreatico‐duodenectomy (PD). Its incidence, risk factors, and effect on prognosis are not well described and optimum management remains debated. This study aims to calculate incidence of CL following PD and identify risk factors. Following a literature review, we have proposed a management algorithm.MethodsThis is a retrospective review of all patients who underwent PD between January 2006 and April 2020 at a tertiary hepatopancreaticobiliary unit in the UK. The following data were obtained: age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, body mass index, co‐morbidities, duration of surgery, tumour histology, length of stay and mortality.ResultsA total of 560 patients were included. Seventeen developed CL (3.04%). Median age was 64 years (range 50–81). Sixteen (94.1%) patients still had their surgical drain in at the time of CL diagnosis. One (5.9%) did not and had free intra‐abdominal fluid on computed tomography; a diagnosis was made after an ultrasound‐guided drain had been inserted. CL patients were more likely to have higher body mass index (mean 30.5 kg/m2 (range 17–43) versus 26.7 kg/m2 (22–38)) (P = 0.02) and longer duration of operation (mean 6.2 h (range 4.3–9.0) versus 5.6 (3.0–11.0)) (P = 0.03). All cases of CL resolved without operative intervention. CL did not affect length of stay (median 10 days (range 4–41) versus 11 (4–34)).ConclusionsIn our series, 3.04% of patients who underwent PD developed CL. No patients required a return to theatre, and none had CL recurrence.
Comparative analysis of emergency general surgery on‐call structure and its impact on emergency appendicectomy outcomes
Authors: Gounder Jaya , Dissanayake Bhanuka , Burstow Matthew J. , Yuide Peter J. , Naidu Sanjeev , Lancashire Raymond P. , Chua Terence C. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundIn Australia, there has been a shift from the traditional ‘on‐call’ surgical model to the ‘acute surgical unit’ (ASU) model to improve outcomes in acute general surgery. Using emergency appendicectomy as a standardized procedure, we aimed to identify the different patterns of care between these on‐call structures by comparing two metropolitan district hospitals; one that employs a traditional on‐call model and the other, which employ the ASU model.MethodsData on consecutive patients undergoing emergency appendectomies at the two hospitals (traditional and ASU model) between July 2018 and December 2018 were retrieved for retrospective review. Patient factors, preoperative factors, operative factors and post‐operative outcomes were collected and tabulated for comparative analysis between the traditional versus ASU model of care.ResultsUnivariate analysis demonstrated that there were a greater proportion of consultant‐led cases (P < 0.001), a shorter time to theatre (P = 0.047) and a greater number of out‐of‐hours operations (P < 0.001) in the ASU model compared to the traditional model. A larger proportion of patients from the traditional model underwent a computed tomography scan as part of their diagnostic workup compared to the ASU model (P < 0.001). There was no difference in negative appendicectomy rates, intraoperative conversion rates, post‐operative complication rates or mean lengths of hospital stay between the two on‐call models.ConclusionThe ASU and traditional on‐call model appears to achieve equivalent care outcomes for patients with acute appendicitis.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the treatment of perianal fistulas in 20 patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Lansdorp Corine A. , Gecse Krisztina B. , Buskens Christianne J. , Löwenberg Mark , Stoker Jaap , Bemelman Willem A. , D’Haens Geert R.A.M. , van Hulst Rob A. 
Published: January 2021

SummaryBackgroundPositive effects of hyperbaric oxygen on perianal fistulas in Crohn's disease have been reported.AimTo assess efficacy, safety and feasibility of hyperbaric oxygen in Crohn's disease patients with therapy‐refractory perianal fistulas.MethodsTwenty consecutive patients were recruited at the out‐patient fistula clinic of the Amsterdam UMC. Crohn's disease patients with high perianal fistula(s) failing conventional treatment for over 6 months were included. Exclusion criteria were presence of a stoma, rectovaginal fistula(s) and recent changes in treatment regimens. Patients received treatment with 40 hyperbaric oxygen sessions and outcome parameters were assessed at Week 16.ResultsSeven women and 13 men were included (median age 34 years). At Week 16, median scores of perianal disease activity index and modified van Assche index (co‐primary outcome parameters) decreased from 7.5 (95% CI 6‐9) to 4 (95% CI 3‐6, P < 0.001), and from 9.2 (95% CI 7.3‐11.2) to 7.3 (95% CI 6.9‐9.7, P = 0.004) respectively. Perianal disease activity index scores ≤4 (representing inactive perianal disease) were observed in 13/20 patients (65%). Twelve patients showed a clinical response (60%) and four (20%) clinical remission, assessed with fistula drainage assessment. Median C‐reactive protein and faecal calprotectin levels decreased from 4.2 mg/mL (95% CI 1.6‐8) to 2.2 (95% CI 0.9‐4.3, P = 0.003) and from 399 µg/g (95% CI 52‐922) to 31 (95% CI 16‐245, P = 0.001), respectively.ConclusionsWe found significant clinical, radiological and biochemical improvement in Crohn's disease patients with therapy‐refractory perianal fistulas after treatment with hyperbaric oxygen.Clinical trial registration: www.trialregister.nl/trial/6489.
The importance of co‐delivery of nanoparticle‐siRNA and anticancer agents in cancer therapy
Authors: Khelghati Nafiseh , Soleimanpour Mokhtarvand Jafar , Mir Mostafa , Alemi Forough , Asemi Zatollah , Sadeghpour Alireza , Maleki Masomeh , Samadi Kafil Hossein , Jadidi‐niaragh Farhad , Majidinia Maryam , Yousefi Bahman 
Published: January 2021

AbstractAccording to global statistics, cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Because of the heterogeneity of cancer, single‐drug therapy has many limitations due to low efficacy. Therefore, combination therapy with two or more therapeutic agents is being arisen. One of the most important approaches in cancer therapy is the shot down of key genes involved in apoptotic processes and cell cycle. In this regard, siRNA is a good candidate, a highly attractive method to suppressing tumor growth and invasion. Combination therapy with siRNAs and chemotherapeutic agents can overcome the multidrug resistance and increase apoptosis. The efficient delivery of siRNA to the target cell/tissue/organ has been a challenge. To overcome these challenges, the presence of suitable delivery systems by using nanoparticles is interesting. In this review, we discuss the current challenges for successful RNA interference. Also, we suggested proper a strategy for delivering siRNA that can be useful in targeting therapy. Finally, the combination of a variety of anticancer drugs and siRNA through acceptable delivery systems and their effects on cell cycle and apoptosis will be evaluated.
Identifying meaningful dietary intake and physical activity questions for individual and population health
Authors: Shinall Jennifer Bennett , Schlundt David G. , Sullivan Mikaela H. , Frank Hannah J. , Po'e Eli K. , Sommer Evan C. , Bonnet Kemberlee R. , Burgess Laura E. , Barkin Shari L. , Haws Kelly L. 
Published: January 2021

SummaryWe aimed to identify valid screening questions for adults regarding physical activity and dietary behaviours that (a) were correlated with BMI, (b) were deemed by patients and providers to be relevant to clinical care, and (c) have utility for longitudinal understanding of health behaviours in populations. The goal was to identify screening questions that could be implemented at annual health care visits. First, we identified dietary behaviour questions and solicited patient input. Next, we tested both physical activity and dietary behaviour questions in a large sample to test their potential utility. Finally, we used cognitive interviews with patients and physicians to narrow our assessment for clinical settings. We present a parsimonious and reliable six‐question scale of physical activity and dietary behaviours for research settings, as well as a three‐question scale for clinical settings. We demonstrate a robust relationship between these measures and obesity. Additionally, we present evidence that these measures may serve as a useful red flag for patients before they develop obesity. We provide a concise and useful tool for assessing patients' physical activity and dietary behaviours in a variety of research settings. We also highlight the importance of incorporating this tool into the clinical intake flow for inclusion in patients' Electronic Health Record.
Autologous stem cell transplantation vs bortezomib based chemotheraphy for the first‐line treatment of systemic light chain amyloidosis in the UK
Authors: Sharpley Faye A. , Manwani Richa , Petrie Aviva , Mahmood Shameem , Sachchithanantham Sajitha , Lachmann Helen J. , Martinez De Azcona Naharro Ana , Gillmore Julian D. , Whelan Carol J. , Fontana Marianna , Cohen Oliver , Hawkins Philip N. , Wechalekar Ashutosh D. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractObjectivesThe benefit of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in the treatment of light chain (AL) amyloidosis requires re‐evaluation in the modern era. This retrospective case‐matched study compares ASCT to bortezomib for the treatment of patients with AL amyloidosis.MethodsNewly diagnosed patients with AL amyloidosis treated with ASCT or bortezomib between 2001 and 2018 were identified. Patients were excluded if the time from diagnosis to treatment exceeded 12 months. Patients were matched on a 1:1 basis, using a propensity‐matched scoring approach.ResultsA total of 136 propensity score‐matched patients were included (ASCT n = 68, bortezomib n = 68). There was no significant difference in overall survival at two years (P = .908, HR: 0.95, CI: 0.41‐2.20). For ASCT vs bortezomib: overall haematological response rate at 6 months was 90.6% vs 92.5%; organ response at 12 months: cardiac (70.0% vs 54%, P > .999), renal (74% vs 24%, P = .463) liver (21% vs 22%, P = .048); median progression‐free survival (50 vs 42 months P = .058, HR: 0.61, CI: 0.37‐1.02) and time to next treatment (68 vs 45 months, P = .145, HR: 0.61, CI: 0.31‐1.19). More patients required treatment in the bortezomib group compared to ASCT group at 24 months (41 vs 23, Chi‐squared P = .004) and 48 months (57 vs 41, Chi‐squared P = .004).ConclusionsThis small retrospective study suggests that there is no clear survival advantage of ASCT over bortezomib therapy. A prospective randomised controlled trial evaluating ASCT in AL amyloidosis is critically needed.
Nest‐site selection in a neotropical arachnid with exclusive male care: Proximate cues and adaptive meaning
Authors: Rojas Andrés , Muniz Danilo G. , Solano‐Brenes Diego , Machado Glauco 
Published: January 2021

AbstractNest‐site selection is a crucial decision made by parents because inadequate sites may expose the offspring and the parent to harsh abiotic and biotic conditions. Although nest‐site selection has been reported for some species of arthropods, the proximate cues used by parents to select the nest site and the adaptive meaning of nest‐site selection are still poorly understood. We investigated nest‐site selection in the harvestman Quindina limbata, in which males build mud nests on the surface of fallen logs and perform parental care. This species inhabits tropical forests where rainfall destroys nearly 50% of the nests, representing an important selective force shaping nest‐site selection. We followed 139 nests and recorded the position (angle) where these nests were located on the fallen log surface. Males showed a complex pattern of nest‐site selection that responded to three proximate cues: the direct impact of raindrops on the upper half of the fallen log, the drag force caused by flowing water on the laterals of the fallen log, and water saturation on the lowest part of the fallen log. These selective pressures created a bimodal pattern of nest distribution on the lower half of the fallen logs. The peaks of this distribution occurred in places where nests are protected from the direct impact of raindrops, the drag force caused by flowing water is not high, and the risk of nest flooding is low. The possible adaptive meaning of nest‐site selection is to minimize the risk of nest destruction, which imposes energetic costs to males that need to build another nest. Nest‐site selection may also minimize reproductive costs because males with damaged nests show decreased attractiveness to females. Finally, nest‐site selection may increase offspring fitness minimizing the risk of egg mortality associated with nest destruction and anoxia when nests are flooded.
The role of prolines and glycine in the transmembrane domain of LAT
Authors: Glatzová Daniela , Mavila Harsha , Saija Maria Chiara , Chum Tomáš , Cwiklik Lukasz , Brdička Tomáš , Cebecauer Marek 
Published: January 2021

Linker for activation in T cells (LAT) is a critical regulator of T‐cell development and function. It organises signalling events at the plasma membrane. However, the mechanism, which controls LAT localisation at the plasma membrane, is not fully understood. Here, we studied the impact of helix‐breaking amino acids, two prolines and one glycine, in the transmembrane segment on localisation and function of LAT. Using in silico analysis, confocal and super‐resolution imaging and flow cytometry, we demonstrate that central proline residue destabilises transmembrane helix by inducing a kink. The helical structure and dynamics are further regulated by glycine and another proline residue in the luminal part of LAT transmembrane domain. Replacement of these residues with aliphatic amino acids reduces LAT dependence on palmitoylation for sorting to the plasma membrane. However, surface expression of these mutants is not sufficient to recover function of nonpalmitoylated LAT in stimulated T cells. These data indicate that geometry and dynamics of LAT transmembrane segment regulate its localisation and function in immune cells.