bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal niche‐based mechanisms support a stable coexistence of ants and spiders in an extrafloral nectary‐bearing plant community
Authors: Lange Denise , Calixto Eduardo Soares , Del‐Claro Kleber , Stefani Vanessa
Published: March 2021

Mechanisms promoting stable coexistence allow multiple species to persist in the same trophic level of a given network of species interactions. One of the most common stabilizing mechanisms of coexistence is niche differentiation, such as temporal and spatial patchiness. To understand the limits of coexistence between species we have to understand the limits of competitive interactions which translate in species exclusion or patterns of non‐co‐occurrence.

We evaluated spatiotemporal niche‐based mechanisms that could promote stable coexistence between ants and spiders which forage on extrafloral nectary (EFN)‐bearing plants. We observed co‐occurrence and overlapping patterns between ants and spiders in a temporal and spatial scale in nine different EFN‐bearing plant species in a Neotropical savanna, using both community and species‐level approach.

Ants and spiders showed asynchrony of their abundances over the year with low temporal overlapping patterns between them (temporal niche specialization). Greater abundance of ants occurred between September and March, whereas greater abundance of spiders occurred between March and August, exactly at the time when the abundance of ants decreases on plants. However, there might also be some levels of temporal overlapping, but then individual ants and spiders occupy different branches (spatial segregation). Finally, we also observed a spatial negative effect of the abundance of ants on the presence of spiders.

Our results suggest that spatiotemporal partitioning between ants and spiders may be one of the potential mechanisms behind a stable coexistence between these two groups of organisms that forage on EFN‐bearing plants in the Brazilian savanna.
Cooperative feeding in common dolphins as suggested by ontogenetic patterns in δ15N bulk and amino acids
Authors: Ruiz‐Cooley Rocio I. , Gerrodette Tim , Chivers Susan J. , Danil Kerri
Published: March 2021

Understanding the effect of stage‐specific traits on species feeding habits can reveal how natural selection shapes life strategies. Amino acid (AA) nitrogen stable isotopes (δ15N) provide multiple proxies of habitat baseline values and diet that can improve our understanding of species feeding strategies relative to their animal metabolism. We evaluated the effect of body length as a proxy for life stage and sex on the feeding habits of the common dolphinDelphinus delphis delphisusing δ13C and δ15N in bulk tissue and AAs δ15N from skin samples collected for almost two decades.

For bulk δ13C and δ15N data, we used SIBER analysis to compare isotopic niches by sex and life stage. For AA δ15N data, we developed a hierarchical Bayesian model (HBM) to estimate indices of trophic status (Δ15N and trophic position). The model reflected the natural hierarchical structure of AA data by partitioning variability into three sources: between laboratory replicates, within dolphins and among dolphins.

Estimates of Δ15N based on all trophic and source AAs were more precise for each dolphin, less variable among dolphins and on average 2.4‰ higher than indices based on single trophic (Glx) and source (Phe) AAs. Precision was further increased when information was shared among individuals through random effects or regression models. Estimates of trophic position showed similar patterns. Both Δ15N and δ15Nbulkisotopic niches showed no difference by sex, suggesting that males and females have similar feeding habits and may not segregate. However, lower Δ15N values for weaning calves and smaller juveniles discriminate them from adults, whereas δ15N bulk isotopic niches do not. A trophic discrimination factor (TDFTro‐Src) of 3.1‰ was required for reasonable estimates of trophic position for these dolphins.

Together, the lack of δ15N differences between sexes, low variation between juveniles and adults and knowledge of common dolphins' social organization support intraspecific feeding cooperation as an important strategy to feed in the highly dynamic marine environment. Our study also presents an efficient way to analyse complex AA δ15N data using HBM to investigate foraging behaviour in long‐lived marine species difficult to study in the wild.
Staffing levels and nursing‐sensitive patient outcomes: Umbrella review and qualitative study
Authors: Blume Kai Svane , Dietermann Karina , Kirchner‐Heklau Uta , Winter Vera , Fleischer Steffen , Kreidl Lisa Maria , Meyer Gabriele , Schreyögg Jonas
Published: March 2021

Objective

To derive a comprehensive list of nursing‐sensitive patient outcomes (NSPOs) from published research on nurse staffing levels and from expert opinion.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Published literature reviews and their primary studies analyzing the link between nurse staffing levels and NSPOs and interviews with 16 experts on nursing care.

Study Design

Umbrella review and expert interviews.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We screened three electronic databases for literature reviews on the association between nurse staffing levels and NSPOs. After screening 430 potentially relevant records, we included 15 literature reviews, derived a list of 22 unique NSPOs from them, and ranked these in a systematic fashion according to the strength of evidence existing for their association with nurse staffing. We extended this list of NSPOs based on data from expert interviews.

Principal Findings

Of the 22 NSPOs discussed in the 15 included literature reviews, we rated the strength of evidence for four as high, for five as moderate, and for 13 outcomes as low. Four additional NSPOs that have not been considered in literature were identified through expert interviews.

Conclusions

We identified strong evidence for a significant association between nurse staffing levels and NSPOs. Our results may guide researchers in selecting NSPOs they might wish to prioritize in future studies. In particular, rarely studied NSPOs as well as NSPOs that were only identified through expert interviews but have not been considered in literature so far should be subject to further research.
Effects of yarn size and blood drop size on wicking and bloodstains in textiles
Authors: Baby Ruksana , Michielsen Stephen , Wu Jiaying
Published: March 2021

Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) for stains found on non‐porous surfaces has matured into a powerful forensic science tool based on fluid mechanics principles. The same cannot be said when bloodstains are found on porous substrates, such as textiles. This is partially due to the complex nature of textiles with tens of thousands of different materials in addition to unknown wear characteristics. In this study, three single jersey knit fabrics were manufactured from 100% cotton ring‐spun yarns of linear densities of 12, 20, and 30 Ne (492, 295, and 197 dtex, respectively) and nearly identical twist multipliers. Single drops of porcine blood of 2, 10, 30, and 60 µL were allowed to fall 1 cm (to eliminate the impact of blood velocity) onto each fabric to understand the effects of yarn size on wicking and bloodstains. The size of the stain was then measured and compared for different fabrics and blood drop sizes. Wicking of blood into the fabric was fastest for the largest yarn fabrics, but more extensive wicking occurred on finer yarn fabrics resulting in much larger stains. All stains were highly altered due to wicking of blood. The findings from this paper might help the forensic scientists in understanding wicking in textiles and comparing stains on different textiles to gain a better understanding of bloodstains on textiles.
Review article: Has the implementation of time‐based targets for emergency department length of stay influenced the quality of care for patients? A systematic review of quantitative literature
Authors: Jones Peter , Haustead Daniel , Walker Katie , Honan Bridget , Gangathimmaiah Vinay , Mitchell Robert , Bissett Ian , Forero Roberto , Martini Ella , Mountain David
Published: March 2021

Time‐based targets (TBTs) for ED stays were introduced to improve quality of care but criticised as having harmful unintended consequences. The aim of the review was to determine whether implementation of TBTs influenced quality of care. Structured searches in medical databases were undertaken (2000–2019). Studies describing a state, regional or national TBTs that reported processes or outcomes of care related to the target were included. Harvest plots were used to summarise the evidence. Thirty‐three studies (n = 34 million) were included. In some settings, reductions in mortality were seen in ED, in hospital and at 30 days, while in other settings mortality was unchanged. Mortality reductions were seen in the face of increasing age and acuity of presentations, when short‐stay admissions were excluded, and when pre‐target temporal trends were accounted for. ED crowding, time to assessment and admission times reduced. Fewer patients left prior to completing their care and fewer patients re‐presented to EDs. Short‐stay admissions and re‐admissions to wards within 30 days increased. There was conflicting evidence regarding hospital occupancy and ward medical emergency calls, while times to treatment for individual conditions did not change. The evidence for associations was mostly low certainty and confidence in the findings is accordingly low. Quality of care generally improved after targets were introduced and when compliance with targets was high. This depended on how targets were implemented at individual sites or within jurisdictions, with important implications for policy makers, health managers and clinicians.
Granulomatous Crohn's disease follows a more aggressive clinical course?
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Ng Sherwin , Burgess Phillip
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to define and compare the clinical course of granulomatous (GCD) vs non‐granulomatous Crohn's disease (NGCD).

Methodology

All consecutive patients who had undergone small or large bowel resection for Crohn's disease from 2000 to 2008 in a District General Hospital were collated retrospectively for histological evidence of GCD vs NGCD. Patients were assessed using the Montreal classification and data were collected for the number of recurrences requiring hospital admissions, re‐operations and septic complications over a follow‐up period of 10 or more years.

Results

Fifty‐four patients were included in the study, 28 had GCD and 26 NGCD. The mean follow up for both groups was 13.5 years. No patients were excluded. Patients with GCD were younger but there were no other differences in age, sex, family history and smoking status. In patients with confirmed granulomata on resectional histology, there was an increased incidence of subsequent intra‐abdominal abscess formation after surgery (P < .05), an increased number of subsequent operations (P < .05) and shorter time to recurrences requiring hospital admissions (P < .05). The granulomatous cohort of patients had an apparent but not significant increased incidence of fistulating disease and stoma formation.

Conclusions

This study showed an increased risk of postoperative complications in patients with granulomatous Crohn's disease. Further studies are required to confirm that presence of granulomas in Crohn's disease is predictive of a poor prognosis and the need for more aggressive medical management.
Whistle signal variations among three Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphin populations in the South China Sea: a combined effect of the Qiongzhou Strait's geographical barrier function and local ambient noise?
Authors: YUAN Jing , WANG Zhitao , DUAN Pengxiang , XIAO Yousheng , ZHANG Hongke , HUANG Zhixiong , ZHOU Ruichun , WEN Hua , WANG Kexiong , WANG Ding
Published: March 2021

Geographic variations in the dolphin whistles could be useful in assessing association and isolation among populations. Whistle of free‐ranging Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) among the Pearl River Estuary (PRE), Leizhou Bei (LZB) and Sanniang Bay (SNB) populations were investigated. A total of 2850 whistles with legible fundamental contour were extracted and 15 acoustic parameters were measured. Contrary to SNB, PRE and LZB had the same relative proportion of tonal type compositions with flat and sine representing the most frequent types. The generalized linear model analysis showed significant acoustic difference among populations and tonal types. All frequency parameters in SNB were significantly higher than those in PRE and LZB, where no significant variation was observed in most of the parameters either at the population level or within each tonal type. Canonical discriminant functions analysis showed a smaller difference between PRE and LZB than between PRE and SNB and between LZB and SNB. Compared with previous recordings, recent recordings demonstrated a consistent pattern of becoming higher in whistle frequency parameters in both LZB and SNB populations, suggesting that noise pollution in LZB and SNB increasing with time according to the acoustic niche hypothesis. Dolphin whistle's geographic variations could be shaped by the combined function of the geographical barrier function of the Qiongzhou strait and local ambient noise. Considering the isolated condition and the relatively smaller population size of the humpback dolphin in the SNB, more effective and proactive conservation actions should be taken to prevent the extinction of small populations.
A novel fluorescence and DNA combination for versatile, long‐term marking of mosquitoes
Authors: Faiman Roy , Krajacich Benjamin J. , Graber Leland , Dao Adama , Yaro Alpha Seydou , Yossi Ousmane , Sanogo Zana Lamissa , Diallo Moussa , Samaké Djibril , Sylla Daman , Coulibaly Moribo , Kone Salif , Goita Sekou , Coulibaly Mamadou B. , Muratova Olga , McCormack Ashley , Gonçalves Bronner P. , Hume Jennifer , Duffy Patrick , Lehmann Tovi
Published: March 2021

Current mark–release–recapture methodologies are limited in their ability to address complex problems in vector biology, such as studying multiple groups overlapping in space and time. Additionally, limited mark retention, reduced post‐marking survival and the large effort in marking, collection and recapture all complicate effective insect tracking.

We have developed and evaluated a marking method using a fluorescent dye (SmartWater®) combined with synthetic DNA tags to informatively and efficiently mark adult mosquitoes using an airbrush pump and nebulizer. Using a handheld UV flashlight, the fluorescent marking enabled quick and simple initial detection of recaptures in a field‐ready and non‐destructive approach that when combined with an extraction‐free PCR on individual mosquito legs provides potentially unlimited marking information.

This marking, first tested in the laboratory with Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes, did not affect survival (median ages 24–28 days, p‐adj > 0.25), oviposition (median eggs/female of 28.8, 32.5, 33.3 for water, green, red dyes, respectively, p‐adj > 0.44) or Plasmodium competence (mean oocysts 5.56–10.6, p‐adj > 0.95). DNA and fluorescence had 100% retention up to 3 weeks (longest time point tested) with high intensity, indicating marks would persist longer.

We describe a novel, simple, no/low‐impact and long‐lasting marking method that allows separation of multiple insect subpopulations by combining unlimited length and sequence variation in the synthetic DNA tags. This method can be readily deployed in the field for marking multiple groups of mosquitoes or other insects.
The “walled oases” phenomenon. A study of the ramparts in Dūmat al‐Jandal and other pre‐Islamic sites in north‐western Arabia
Authors: Charloux Guillaume , AlMalki Thamer , AlQaeed Ahmed
Published: March 2021

The present article focuses on a long‐lasting phenomenon that has not yet been treated from a regional and comparative perspective, despite its exceptional character: the walled oases of north‐western Arabia. It appears that several oases in the region (Al‐Ḥuwayyiṭ, Dūmat al‐Jandal, Ḥāʾiṭ, Khaybar, Qurayyah and Taymāʾ) were entirely, or in large part, enclosed by outer walls prior to the Islamic era. These compounds comprised not only densely populated areas but the whole oasis territory, including rural zones and sometimes burial grounds. Measuring several kilometres in length, these immense defensive schemes required considerable investment by indigenous populations for their construction and maintenance until their disuse. According to our research, the walled oases phenomenon in north‐western Arabia originated sometime in the late fourth−early third millennium BCE, possibly inspired by Early Bronze Age southern Levant defensive concepts, and further expanded in connection with the emergence of the trans‐Arabian trade and the caravan kingdoms. These conclusions are based on the detailed technological study of the ramparts of the oasis of Dūmat al‐Jandal and on the analysis of satellite imagery and scientific literature on other sites in north‐western Arabia.
HLH‐30‐dependent rewiring of metabolism during starvation in C. elegans
Authors: Dall Kathrine B. , Havelund Jesper F. , Harvald Eva B. , Witting Michael , Færgeman Nils J.
Published: March 2021

One of the most fundamental challenges for all living organisms is to sense and respond to alternating nutritional conditions in order to adapt their metabolism and physiology to promote survival and achieve balanced growth. Here, we applied metabolomics and lipidomics to examine temporal regulation of metabolism during starvation in wild‐type Caenorhabditis elegans and in animals lacking the transcription factor HLH‐30. Our findings show for the first time that starvation alters the abundance of hundreds of metabolites and lipid species in a temporal‐ and HLH‐30‐dependent manner. We demonstrate that premature death of hlh‐30 animals under starvation can be prevented by supplementation of exogenous fatty acids, and that HLH‐30 is required for complete oxidation of long‐chain fatty acids. We further show that RNAi‐mediated knockdown of the gene encoding carnitine palmitoyl transferase I (cpt‐1) only impairs survival of wild‐type animals and not of hlh‐30 animals. Strikingly, we also find that compromised generation of peroxisomes by prx‐5 knockdown renders hlh‐30 animals hypersensitive to starvation, which cannot be rescued by supplementation of exogenous fatty acids. Collectively, our observations show that mitochondrial functions are compromised in hlh‐30 animals and that hlh‐30 animals rewire their metabolism to largely depend on functional peroxisomes during starvation, underlining the importance of metabolic plasticity to maintain survival.
Identifying Patterns of Alcohol Use and Obesity‐Related Factors Among Emerging Adults: A Behavioral Economic Analysis
Authors: Buscemi Joanna , Acuff Samuel F. , Minhas Meenu , MacKillop James , Murphy James G.
Published: March 2021

Background

Although heavy alcohol consumption and maladaptive eating behaviors have been shown to co‐occur among college students, less is known about the co‐occurrence of these behaviors in a more diverse community‐dwelling, emerging adult sample. The purpose of this study was to: (i) identify classes of emerging adults by their reported alcohol consumption patterns, food addiction symptoms, and body mass index; and (ii) determine whether these classes differed on indices of behavioral economic reinforcer pathology (e.g., environmental reward deprivation, impulsivity, alcohol demand).

Method

Emerging adult participants were recruited as part of a study on risky alcohol use (n = 602; 47% white, 41.5% Black; mean age = 22.63, SD = 1.03). Participants completed questionnaires on alcohol and food‐related risk factors and underwent anthropometric assessment.

Results

Latent profile analysis suggested a four‐profile solution: a moderate alcohol severity, overweight profile (Profile 1; n = 424, 70.4%), a moderate alcohol severity, moderate food addiction + obese profile (Profile 2; n = 93, 15.4%), a high alcohol severity, high food addiction + obese profile (Profile 3; n = 44, 7.3%), and a high alcohol severity, overweight profile (Profile 4; n = 41, 6.8%). Individuals in Profile 1 reported significantly lower levels of environmental reward deprivation than either Profile 2 or 3, and participants in Profile 3 reported significantly higher environmental reward deprivation than those in Profile 4 (p < 0.001). Profile 4 demonstrated significantly higher alcohol demand intensity and Omax and lower demand elasticity than Profile 1, Profile 2, or Profile 3. Profile 4 also demonstrated significantly greater proportionate substance‐related reinforcement than Profile 1 (p < 0.001) and Profile 2 (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Maladaptive eating patterns and alcohol consumption may share common risk factors for reinforcer pathology including environmental reward deprivation, impulsivity, and elevated alcohol demand.
Evaluating the impact of minimum unit pricing (MUP) on off‐trade alcohol sales in Scotland: an interrupted time–series study
Authors: Robinson Mark , Mackay Daniel , Giles Lucie , Lewsey Jim , Richardson Elizabeth , Beeston Clare
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

On 1 May 2018, Scotland became the first country in the world to introduce minimum unit pricing (MUP), a strength‐based floor price below which alcohol cannot be sold, across all alcoholic beverages. The legislation contains a sunset clause meaning a comprehensive mixed‐methods evaluation of its impact across a range of outcomes will inform whether it will continue beyond its sixth year. In this study, we assessed the impact of MUP on off‐trade alcohol sales (as a proxy for consumption) after its first year.

Design, Setting and Participants

Controlled interrupted time–series regression was used to assess the impact of MUP on alcohol sales among off‐trade retailers in Scotland in the year after it was introduced, with England and Wales (EW) being the control group. In adjusted analyses, we included household disposable income, on‐trade alcohol sales and substitution between beverage categories as covariates.

Measurements

Weekly data on the volume of pure alcohol sold by off‐trade retailers in Scotland and EW between January 2013 and May 2019, expressed as litres of pure alcohol per adult.

Findings

The introduction of MUP in Scotland was associated with a 3.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.2–4.9%] reduction in off‐trade alcohol sales per adult after adjustment for the best available geographical control, disposable income and substitution. In unadjusted analysis, the introduction of MUP was associated with a 2.0% (95% CI = 0.4–3.6%) reduction in off‐trade alcohol sales per adult in Scotland. In EW, there was a 2.4% (95% CI = 0.8–4.0%) increase during the same time‐period. The reduction in off‐trade alcohol sales in Scotland was driven by reduced sales of spirits, cider and perry beverage categories.

Conclusion

The implementation of minimum unit pricing for alcohol in Scotland in 2018 appears to have been associated with a reduction in off‐trade alcohol sales after its first year.
Enkurin domain containing 1 (ENKD1) regulates the proliferation, migration and invasion of non‐small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Song Ting , Zhou Peng , Sun Chunjiao , He Na , Li Haixia , Ran Jie , Zhou Jun , Wu Yue , Liu Min
Published: March 2021

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. NSCLC has an aggressive phenotype and poor prognosis, and is quite heterogeneous without effective and specific targeted therapies. Therefore, exploring new tumor markers and drug targets for NSCLC is crucial towards individualized treatment. Here, we demonstrate that enkurin domain containing 1 (ENKD1), a protein with unknown structure and function, is significantly downregulated in NSCLC tumor tissues compared with their non‐tumor counterparts. We also show that ENKD1 expression is decreased in NSCLC cells compared to normal human lung epithelial cells. EdU incorporation, wound healing, and transwell invasion assays reveal that ENKD1 regulates the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells. Collectively, these results suggest that ENKD1 plays an important role in NSCLC progression and that ENKD1 is a tumor marker and a potential molecular drug target for the treatment of NSCLC patients.
IgE‐cross‐blocking antibodies to Fagales following sublingual immunotherapy with recombinant Bet v 1
Authors: Grilo João Rodrigues , Kitzmüller Claudia , Aglas Lorenz , Sánchez Acosta Gabriela , Vollmann Ute , Ebner Christof , Horak Fritz , Kinaciyan Tamar , Radauer Christian , Ferreira Fatima , Jahn‐Schmid Beatrice , Bohle Barbara
Published: March 2021

Background

Evidence has accumulated that birch pollen immunotherapy reduces rhinoconjunctivitis to pollen of birch homologous trees. Therapeutic efficacy has been associated with IgE‐blocking IgG antibodies. We have recently shown that sera collected after 16 weeks of sublingual immunotherapy with recombinant Bet v 1 (rBet v 1‐SLIT) display strong IgE‐blocking bioactivity for Bet v 1. Here, we assessed whether rBet v 1‐SLIT‐induced IgG antibodies display cross‐blocking activity to related allergens in Fagales pollen.

Methods

IgE, IgG1 and IgG4 reactivity to recombinant Bet v 1, Aln g 1, Car b 1, Ost c 1, Cor a 1, Fag s 1, Cas s 1 and Que a 1 were assessed in pre‐ and post‐SLIT samples of 17 individuals by ELISA. A basophil inhibition assay using stripped basophils re‐sensitized with a serum pool containing high Bet v 1‐specific IgE levels was established and used to assess CD63 expression in response to allergens after incubation with pre‐SLIT or post‐SLIT samples. IgG1 and IgG4 were depleted from post‐SLIT samples to assess its contribution to IgE‐cross‐blocking.

Results

Sublingual immunotherapy with recombinant Bet v 1 boosted cross‐reactive IgE antibodies and induced IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies with inter‐ and intra‐individually differing reactivity to the homologs. Highly variable cross‐blocking activities of post‐SLIT samples to the different allergens were found. IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies displayed cross‐blocking activity with individual variance.

Conclusions

Our mechanistic approach suggested that immunotherapy with the reference allergen Bet v 1 induces individual repertoires of cross‐reactive IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies. The cross‐blocking bioactivity of these antibodies was also highly variable and neither predictable from protein homology nor IgE‐cross‐reactivity.
Population‐based picture of breast reconstruction in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Youl Philippa , Philpot Shoni , Moore Julie , Theile David E.
Published: March 2021

Background

Approximately 40% of women with invasive breast cancer will undergo a mastectomy. Clinical practice guidelines recommend breast reconstruction (BR) options should be discussed with all women who are to undergo a mastectomy. We sought to examine rates of BR, BR methods over time and to identify factors associated with the likelihood of receiving BR in Queensland.

Methods

This population‐based study used linked data from the Queensland Oncology Repository for 12 364 women who underwent a mastectomy for invasive breast cancer from 2008 to 2017. Multivariate logistic regression was used to model predictors of immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) and delayed breast reconstruction (DBR).

Results

Overall, 2560 (20.7%) women had BR, with 9.8% having IBR and 10.9% having DBR. Factors associated with a reduced likelihood of IBR or DBR included older age (P < 0.001), living in a regional/rural area (P < 0.001) and having a mastectomy in a public versus private hospital (P < 0.001). Median time from mastectomy to DBR was 18.4 and 29.2 months for women attending a private versus public hospital, respectively (P < 0.001). Use of implant‐based BR increased significantly with a corresponding decrease in autologous BR over time.

Conclusions

Significant disparities exist in rates of BR between public and private hospitals. Women living in regional and rural areas as well as those aged over 60 years continue to have lower rates of BR. Addressing the health system barriers and developing strategies to improve access to, and uptake of BR should be a priority.
Holiday hazards: burns in children during school holidays
Authors: Tran Sonia , Holland Andrew J. A. , Bertinetti Monique
Published: March 2021

Background

Paediatric burns are preventable injuries that can have a permanent impact on a child's health and wellbeing. The Burns Unit at the Children's Hospital at Westmead appeared to experience an increase in paediatric burn injury referrals during the school holidays. The evaluation of the characteristics of burn injuries in the school holidays compared to the school term may improve the effectiveness of burn prevention programmes.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all school‐aged children who were referred to our institution between January 2005 and January 2019. Patient details, burn aetiology, burn severity, length of stay and need for grafting were compared between burns sustained during the school holidays and burns sustained during school term.

Results

A total of 3020 children were referred to Children's Hospital at Westmead between January 2005 and January 2019. The mean number of burns sustained increased from 3.8 children per week during the school term to 5.4 children per week during school holidays (P < 0.0001). Contact burns were proportionally more common during school holidays than during the school term (26% versus 19.7%, P < 0.0001), whilst the proportion of scalds decreased significantly during the school holidays (43.5 versus 51.4%, P < 0.0001). There was no difference between mean age, % total body surface area, admission rates, length of stay or skin grafting rates.

Conclusion

There is a significant increase in burn injuries among school‐aged children during the school holidays. This highlights the need for targeted education and prevention campaigns in the periods immediately preceding the school holidays.
The Dialectic of Neoliberal Exploitation and Cultural‐Sexual Exclusion: From Special Economic Zones to LGBT‐Free Zones in Poland
Authors: Żuk Piotr , Pluciński Przemysław , Żuk Paweł
Published: March 2021

This article analyses the process of spatial segregation in Poland: the transition from economic deprivation and the neoliberal logic initiated in the 1990s, which can be symbolised by special economic zones, to the atmosphere of cultural exclusion manifested by LGBT‐free zones created at the level of municipalities, cities and regions in Poland in 2019 and 2020. The authors defend the thesis that events in Poland have confirmed that not only the state can be authoritarian, but that local and regional authorities can also reproduce an authoritarian and excluder vision of social order. The article also shows similarities between the arguments of the modern populist right, which demanded the establishment of LGBT‐free zones, and anti‐Semitic slogans of the pre‐war (1918–1939) right, which demanded the creation of ghettos for Jews. In conclusion, the authors call for avoiding the mistake of separating economic exclusion from cultural discrimination and treating these challenges separately.
Development of enzyme immunoassay for chromogranin A (CgA) and profiling of plasma CgA concentrations in the cow
Authors: Saito Chihiro , Ido‐Matsumoto Haruka , Kumazaki Hiromasa , Kubo Tomoaki , Kanazawa Tomomi , Takahashi Toru
Published: March 2021

The objectives of this study were to establish and characterize a homologous immunoassay for bovine chromogranin A (bCgA) and to profile plasma bCgA concentrations during early pregnancies. We synthesized oligopeptide corresponding to the amino acid sequence 341–355 of bCgA for immunizing rabbits and peptide corresponding to the amino acid sequence 336–365 of bCgA for both a biotinylated tracer and reference standards. Recombinant bCgA protein was also generated inEscherichia colilysate. Dose‐dependent displacement curves were obtained from 1 to 1,000 nM of the reference standards. The displacement curves showed a good relationship between the reference standards of the synthetic peptide and the serially diluted plasma sample or recombinant bCgA protein generated in the present study. The assay sensitivity defined as the value of two standard deviations below the zero standard was calculated as 0.46 nM. The intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation were 6.48% and 13.4%, respectively. Changes in the plasma bCgA concentrations in early pregnancies undulated in nonpregnant animals. The results of the present study suggest that assaying plasma bCgA concentrations could be utilized as measures to evaluate the physiological status of cattle.
Adverse events of recreational cannabis use reported to the French addictovigilance network (2012–2017)
Authors: Bouquet Emilie , Pain Stéphanie , Eiden Céline , Jouanjus Emilie , Richard Nathalie , Fauconneau Bernard , Pérault‐Pochat Marie‐Christine ,   French Addictovigilance Network
Published: March 2021

Aims

To describe the adverse events (AEs) of recreational cannabis use in France between 2012 and 2017.

Methods

AEs related to recreational cannabis use, alone or in combination with alcohol and/or tobacco reported to the French Addictovigilance Network were analysed (excluding cannabidiol and synthetic cannabinoids).

Results

Reporting of AEs tripled between 2012 (n = 179, 6.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 5.4–7.2) and 2017 (n = 562, 10.1%, 95% CI = 9.3–10.9), reaching 2217 cases. They concerned mainly men (76.4%) and users aged between 18 and 34 years (18–25: 30.9%; 26–34: 26.3%, range: 12–84 years). Cannabis was mainly inhaled (71.6%) and exposure was most often chronic (64.2%). Many types of AEs were reported: psychiatric (51.2%), neurological (15.6%), cardiac (7.8%) and gastrointestinal (7.7%), including unexpected AEs (n = 34, 1.1%). The most common effect was dependence, ranging from 10.1% (95% CI = 7.9–12.3) to 20.3% (95% CI = 17.3–23.2) over the study period. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (n = 87, 2.8%) emerged from 2015. Deaths accounted for 0.2% of all AEs (4 men and 3 women aged on average 35 years). A chronic pattern of cannabis use was reported in 4 of them (intracranial hypertension in the context of lung cancer, suicide, cerebral haematoma, neonatal death with concomitant chronic alcohol use), while in the other cases the toxicological analysis identified cannabis use (ruptured aneurysm and unknown aetiology).

Conclusion

This study showed a multitude of AEs related to recreational cannabis use, including unexpected AEs and deaths. It highlights the problem of dependence and the emergence of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Vasculo‐toxic and pro‐inflammatory action of unbound haemoglobin, haem and iron in transfusion‐dependent patients with haemolytic anaemias
Authors: Vinchi Francesca , Sparla Richard , Passos Sara T. , Sharma Richa , Vance S. Zebulon , Zreid Hala S. , Juaidi Hesham , Manwani Deepa , Yazdanbakhsh Karina , Nandi Vijay , Silva André M. N. , Agarvas Anand R. , Fibach Eitan , Belcher John D. , Vercellotti Gregory M. , Ghoti Husam , Muckenthaler Martina U.
Published: March 2021

Increasing evidence suggests that free haem and iron exert vasculo‐toxic and pro‐inflammatory effects by activating endothelial and immune cells. In the present retrospective study, we compared serum samples from transfusion‐dependent patients with β‐thalassaemia major and intermedia, hereditary spherocytosis and sickle cell disease (SCD). Haemolysis, transfusions and ineffective erythropoiesis contribute to haem and iron overload in haemolytic patients. In all cohorts we observed increased systemic haem and iron levels associated with scavenger depletion and toxic ‘free’ species formation. Endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation markers were significantly increased compared to healthy donors. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, oxidative stress markers remained significantly associated with both haem‐ and iron‐related parameters, while soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM‐1), soluble endothelial selectin (sE‐selectin) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) showed the strongest association with haem‐related parameters and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM‐1), sVCAM‐1, interleukin 6 (IL‐6) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with iron‐related parameters. While hereditary spherocytosis was associated with the highest IL‐6 and TNFα levels, β‐thalassaemia major showed limited inflammation compared to SCD. The sVCAM1 increase was significantly lower in patients with SCD receiving exchange compared to simple transfusions. The present results support the involvement of free haem/iron species in the pathogenesis of vascular dysfunction and sterile inflammation in haemolytic diseases, irrespective of the underlying haemolytic mechanism, and highlight the potential therapeutic benefit of iron/haem scavenging therapies in these conditions.
Animal models of pulmonary hypertension: Getting to the heart of the problem
Authors: Dignam Joshua P. , Scott Tara E. , Kemp‐Harper Barbara K. , Hobbs Adrian J.
Published: March 2021

Despite recent therapeutic advances, pulmonary hypertension (PH) remains a fatal disease due to the development of right ventricular (RV) failure. At present, no treatments targeted at the right ventricle are available, and RV function is not widely considered in the preclinical assessment of new therapeutics. Several small animal models are used in the study of PH, including the classic models of exposure to either hypoxia or monocrotaline, newer combinational and genetic models, and pulmonary artery banding, a surgical model of pure RV pressure overload. These models reproduce selected features of the structural remodelling and functional decline seen in patients and have provided valuable insight into the pathophysiology of RV failure. However, significant reversal of remodelling and improvement in RV function remains a therapeutic obstacle. Emerging animal models will provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms governing the transition from adaptive remodelling to a failing right ventricle, aiding the hunt for druggable molecular targets.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Preclinical Models for Cardiovascular disease research (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.5/issuetoc
Non‐peptide agonists and positive allosteric modulators of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptors: Alternative approaches for treatment of Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Malik Faisal , Li Zhijun
Published: March 2021

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptors belong to the pharmaceutically important Class B family of GPCRs and are involved in many biologically significant signalling pathways. Its incretin peptide ligand GLP‐1 analogues are effective treatments for Type 2 diabetes. Although developing non‐peptide low MW drugs targeting GLP‐1 receptors remains elusive, considerable progress has been made in discovering non‐peptide agonists and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of GLP‐1 receptors with demonstrated efficacy. Many of these compounds induce biased signalling in GLP‐1 receptor‐mediated functional pathways. High‐quality structures of GLP‐1 receptors in both inactive and active states have been reported, revealing detailed molecular interactions between GLP‐1 receptors and non‐peptide agonists or PAMs. These progresses raise the exciting possibility of developing non‐peptide drugs of GLP‐1 receptors as alternative treatments for Type 2 diabetes. The insight into the interactions between the receptor and the non‐peptide ligand is also useful for developing non‐peptide ligands targeting other Class B GPCRs.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on GLP1 receptor ligands (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.4/issuetoc
Exempted sectors in free trade agreements
Authors: Deardorff Alan V. , Sharma Rishi R.
Published: March 2021

Almost all participants in free trade agreements (FTAs) exclude at least a few products or sectors from complete tariff removal on the exports of their FTA partners. The positive tariffs that remain within an FTA are often the highest tariffs that the countries apply on an MFN basis. It seems plausible that such exclusions may be chosen because the domestic producers of these products are viewed as especially vulnerable to competition from imports from the partner country. In brief, they are especially “sensitive sectors.” We develop this idea theoretically and then test it empirically on data from 37 countries in 240 importer–exporter pairs within FTAs. We find support for the sensitive‐sector hypothesis only in the high‐income countries. We find that low‐income countries, in contrast, exempt sectors where bilateral tariff removal would be more likely trade‐diverting and therefore harmful. Our explanation for this, supported empirically, is not that they are following the advice of trade economists, but rather that they are avoiding loss of tariff revenue and may also perhaps be influenced by the greater bargaining power of richer and/or larger partners in their FTAs.
The evaluation of follow‐up strategies of watch‐and‐wait patients with a complete response after neoadjuvant therapy in rectal cancer
Authors: Haak Hester E. , Žmuc Jan , Lambregts Doenja M. J. , Beets‐Tan Regina G. H. , Melenhorst Jarno , Beets Geerard L. , Maas Monique ,   the Dutch Watch‐and‐Wait Consortium
Published: March 2021

Aim

Many of the current follow‐up schedules in a watch‐and‐wait approach include very frequent MRI and endoscopy examinations to ensure early detection of local regrowth (LR). The aim of this study was to analyse the occurrence and detection of LR in a watch‐and‐wait cohort and to suggest a more efficient follow‐up schedule.

Method

Rectal cancer patients with a clinical complete response after neoadjuvant therapy were prospectively and retrospectively included in a multicentre watch‐and‐wait registry between 2004 and 2018, with the current follow‐up schedule with 3‐monthly endoscopy and MRI in the first year and 6 monthly thereafter. A theoretical comparison was constructed for the detection of LR in the current follow‐up schedule against four other hypothetical schedules.

Results

In all, 50/304 (16%) of patients developed a LR. The majority (98%) were detected at ≤2 years, located in the lumen (94%) and were visible on endoscopy (88%). The theoretical comparison of the different hypothetical schedules suggests that the optimal follow‐up schedule should focus on the first 2 years with 3‐monthly endoscopy and 3–6 monthly MRI. Longer intervals in the first 2 years will cause delays in diagnosis of LR ranging from 0 to 5 months. After 2 years, increasing the interval from 6 to 12 months did not cause important delays.

Conclusion

The optimal follow‐up schedule for a watch‐and‐wait policy in patients with a clinical complete response after chemoradiation for rectal cancer should include frequent endoscopy and to a lesser degree MRI in the first 2 years. Longer intervals, up to 12 months, can be considered after 2 years.
Ant colony optimization–evolutionary hybrid optimization with translation of problem representation
Authors: Polnik Wojciech , Stobiecki Jacek , Byrski Aleksander , Kisiel‐Dorohinicki Marek
Published: March 2021

Different hybrid optimization metaheuristics (see the works of Talbi for classification) either assume the embedding of one algorithm (usually a metaheuristic) in another (for instance, a local search inside an evolutionary algorithm—a memetic algorithm) or creating a chain of algorithms. In this paper, such a chain combination of two algorithms (namely, the Ant Colony Optimization and Evolutionary Algorithm) is presented. However, because of the intrinsic differences between the two algorithms (a vector of labels and a pheromone table when solving the traveling salesman problem, for example), several dedicated algorithms for translating the solutions between these two representations of the problem are proposed. The hybrid algorithm constructed with the application of the translation methods turns out to be significantly better in solving the TSP compared to non‐hybrid versions (relevant experimental results are presented and discussed). This paves the way for new possibilities of constructing hybrid metaheuristics by putting together completely different ones (using different representations); the impact of the presented research is aimed far beyond the hybridization of only ant colony optimization and evolutionary algorithm.
Coupled effects of environment, space and ecological engineering on seafloor beta‐diversity
Authors: Brustolin Marco C. , Gladstone‐Gallagher Rebecca V. , Kraan Casper , Hewitt Judi , Thrush Simon F.
Published: March 2021

One of the challenges in modern ecology is reconciling how biotic interactions and abiotic factors are interwoven drivers of community assembly. β‐diversity is a measure of the variation in species composition across space and time. The drivers of variability in β‐diversity are thus responsible for dictating the trajectory of assembling communities. With data from multiscale surveys conducted in three marine intertidal sandflats, we aimed to determine the relative importance and interdependencies of biotic engineering, environment and spatial distances for β‐diversity. In each sandflat, macrofauna and environmental properties were assessed in 400 samples collected at different spatial distances over 300 000 m2. The role of environmental variability in driving patterns in β‐diversity and species turnover was dependent on the abundances of ecosystem engineers and spatial connectivity among seascapes as shown by the variance explained by the interaction terms in the variance partitioning. Our results highlight the interdependence between space, environment and species interactions in driving community assembly. Given that most models aiming to explain β‐diversity variation only consider abiotic factors, our findings call for the incorporation of biotic interactions into these models and we argue that this is essential for understanding resilience to environmental change. The degree of interdependence between environment, space and biotic interactions in driving ecological assembly is pivotal to our understanding of how biodiversity will respond to predicted changes in habitats, environment and key species distributions.