bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcript assembly improves expression quantification of transposable elements in single-cell RNA-seq data
Authors: Shao Wanqing , Wang Ting
Published: December 2020

Transposable elements (TEs) are an integral part of the host transcriptome. TE-containing noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) show considerable tissue specificity and play important roles during development, including stem cell maintenance and cell differentiation. Recent advances in single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) revolutionized cell type–specific gene expression analysis. However, effective scRNA-seq quantification tools tailored for TEs are lacking, limiting our ability to dissect TE expression dynamics at single-cell resolution. To address this issue, we established a TE expression quantification pipeline that is compatible with scRNA-seq data generated across multiple technology platforms. We constructed TE-containing ncRNA references using bulk RNA-seq data and showed that quantifying TE expression at the transcript level effectively reduces noise. As proof of principle, we applied this strategy to mouse embryonic stem cells and successfully captured the expression profile of endogenous retroviruses in single cells. We further expanded our analysis to scRNA-seq data from early stages of mouse embryogenesis. Our results illustrated the dynamic TE expression at preimplantation stages and revealed 146 TE-containing ncRNA transcripts with substantial tissue specificity during gastrulation and early organogenesis.
Risk perception and intelligent decision in complex social information network
Authors: Wu Desheng , Song Jingxiu , Bian Yuan , Zheng Xiaolong , Zhang Zhu
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The increase of turbulence sources and risk points under the complex social information network has brought severe challenges. This paper discusses risk perception and intelligent decision-making under the complex social information network to maintain social security and financial security.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-modal semantic fusion and social risk perception, temporal knowledge graph and analysis, complex social network intelligent decision-making methods have been studied. A big data computing platform of software and hardware integration for security combat is constructed based on the technical support.

Findings

The software and hardware integration platform driven by big data can realize joint identification of significant risks, intelligent analysis and large-scale group decision-making.

Practical implications

The integrated platform can monitor the abnormal operation and potential associated risks of Listed Companies in real-time, reduce information asymmetry and accounting costs and improve the capital market's ability to serve the real economy. It can also provide critical technical support and decision support in necessary public opinion monitoring and control business.

Originality/value

In this paper, the theory of knowledge-enhanced multi-modal multi-granularity dynamic risk analysis and intelligent group decision-making and the idea of an inference think tank (I-aid-S) is proposed. New technologies and methods, such as association analysis, time series evolution and super large-scale group decision-making, have been established. It's also applied in behavior and situation deduction, public opinion and finance and provides real-time, dynamic, fast and high-quality think tank services.
Understanding determinants of social networking service fatigue: an interpretive structural modeling approach
Authors: Xiao Lin , Pan Ting , Mou Jian , Huang Lihua
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to build a comprehensive structural model to demonstrate the interrelationships of factors influencing social networking service (SNS) fatigue and to identify the varying degrees of influence.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 14 factors influencing SNS fatigue are identified through an extensive literature review. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliqué à un Classement (MICMAC) analysis are employed to build a hierarchical model and classify these factors into four clusters.

Findings

The results revealed that ubiquitous connectivity and immediacy of feedback are key factors contributing to SNS fatigue through their strong influence on other factors. Privacy concern, impression management concern and work–life conflict lead directly to SNS fatigue. In contrast, system feature overload and system pace of change are relatively insignificant in generating SNS fatigue.

Originality/value

This study represents an initial step toward comprehensively understanding the interrelationships among the factors leading to SNS fatigue and reveals how determinants of SNS fatigue are hierarchically organized, thus extending existing research on SNS fatigue. It also provides logical consistency in the ISM-based model for SNS fatigue by grouping identified factors into dependent and independent categories. Moreover, it extends the applicability of the integration of the ISM and MICMAC approaches to the phenomenon of SNS fatigue.
The role of environmental management control systems for ecological sustainability and sustainable performance
Authors: Rehman Shafique Ur , Bhatti Anam , Kraus Sascha , Ferreira João J. M.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study determines how environmental management control system (MCS) packages influence ecological sustainability and sustainable performance through the mediating role of environmental strategies. Furthermore, this applies organizational capabilities as moderating variables between environmental strategies, ecological sustainability and sustainable performance in a sample of 373 construction firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply quantitative questionnaire data from construction firm representatives (from project, sales and construction managers and contract managers, executive directors and engineers) to structural equation modeling and SmartPLS for our analysis.

Findings

The results demonstrate that recourse to environmental MCS packages significantly influence ecological sustainability, sustainable performance and environmental strategies. Additionally, environmental strategies and organizational capabilities significantly influence ecological sustainability and sustainable performance. Moreover, environmental strategies mediate between environmental MCS packages, ecological sustainability and sustainable performance. Organizational capabilities significantly moderate the relationship between ecological sustainability and sustainable performance.

Practical implications

This research highlights the issue of how the management of construction organizations deploy environmental MCS packages, organizational capabilities and business strategies to measure ecological sustainability and improve their sustainable performance. This study fills a gap in the literature and facilitates the management of construction organizations in strengthening their internal resources in terms of environmental MCS packages, environmental strategies and organizational capabilities able to help improve their ecological sustainability and sustainable performance.

Originality/value

There are few studies building theoretical frameworks for incorporating environmental MCS packages, organizational capabilities, environmental strategies, ecological sustainability and sustainable performance into a single study. Although the influence of various types of intangible resources on ecological sustainability and sustainable performance receive considerable examination in the literature, there is a dearth of attention paid to understanding the role of environmental MCS packages, environmental strategies and organizational capabilities in determining the ecological sustainability and sustainable performance of construction organizations.
Spatial analysis on the recreation of wool retail spaces in Iranian markets (case study: Tabriz Grand Bazaar)
Authors: Rezaei Nahideh , Najjari Rana , Nezhadfard Arsalan , Mohammadzadeh Rahmat
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper aims at the spatial analysis of the Rastas dealing with the wool market to revise the production resulting in a recreation of spaces and the pathways based on its high economic–commercial role.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary resources and direct observations through field research were the two critical methodological steps for this paper based on phenomenology and qualitative approaches.

Findings

The results represent that the usage of past experiences is the most effective solutions for activities relying on manufacturing inside the workshops leading to improvement in functional objectives of Bazaar. Integration between diverse institutions, precise planning regarding the creation and restoration of past and new jobs and organizing the exhibition of recreational spaces contributing to development regarding public attraction and strengthening the spatial relationships between production, representation and service. Indeed these mentioned steps will provide multifunctional space with a priority of production and reproduction useful on a recreation of urban life.

Originality/value

This study fulfils to examine the important of the bazaar (Iranian market) and recreate its manufacturing, service and economic processes.
Outcomes of left ventricular assist device implantation for advanced heart failure in critically ill patients (INTERMACS 1 and 2): A retrospective study
Authors: Zhigalov Konstantin , Van den Eynde Jef , Chrosch Thomas , Goerdt Lukas , Sá Michel Pompeu Barros Oliveira , Zubarevich Alina , Papathanasiou Maria , Wendt Daniel , Luedike Peter , Pizanis Nikolaus , Koch Achim , Schmack Bastian , Rassaf Tienush , Kamler Markus , Ruhparwar Arjang , Weymann Alexander
Published: December 2020

The use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for advanced heart failure is becoming increasingly common. However, optimal timing and patient selection remain controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes of LVAD implantation for advanced heart failure in critically ill patients (INTERMACS 1 and 2). Between August 2010 and January 2020, 207 consecutive patients underwent LVAD implantation. Overall survival, major adverse events, and laboratory parameters were compared between patients in INTERMACS 1‐2 (n = 107) and INTERMACS 3‐5 (n = 100). Preoperative white blood cells, C‐reactive protein, procalcitonin, bilirubin, alanine transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase were all significantly higher in INTERMACS 1‐2 when compared to INTERMACS 3‐5 (P < .05). During hospitalization following LVAD implantation, patients in INTERMACS 1‐2 were more likely to develop major infections (41.1% vs. 23.0%, P = .005), respiratory failure (57.9% vs. 25.0%, P < .001), mild (20.6% vs. 8.0%, P = .010), and moderate (31.8% vs. 7.0%, P < .001) right heart failure, and acute renal dysfunction (56.1% vs. 6.0%, P < .001). During a median follow‐up of 2.00 years (interquartile range (IQR) 0.24‐3.39 years), they had a higher incidence of thoracic (15.9% vs. 4.0%, P = .005) and gastrointestinal bleeding (21.5% vs. 11.0%, P = .042), as well as right heart failure (18.7% vs. 1%, P < .001). Risk of death was significantly higher in the INTERMACS 1‐2 group (hazards ratio (HR) 1.64, 95% CI 1.12‐2.40, P = .011). LVAD implantation in critically ill patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Our results suggest that decision for LVAD should be not be delayed until INTERMACS 1 and 2 levels whenever possible.
A Modified Double Gyre with Ground Truth Hyperbolic Trajectories for Flow Visualization
Authors: Wolligandt S. , Wilde T. , Rössl C. , Theisel H.
Published: December 2020

The model of a Double Gyre flow by Shadden et al. is a standard benchmark data set for the computation of hyperbolic Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCS) in flow data. While structurally extremely simple, it generates hyperbolic LCS of arbitrary complexity. Unfortunately, the Double Gyre does not come with a well‐defined ground truth: the location of hyperbolic LCS boundaries can only be approximated by numerical methods that usually involve the gradient of the flow map. We present a new benchmark data set that is a small but carefully designed modification of the Double Gyre, which comes with ground truth closed‐form hyperbolic trajectories. This allows for computing hyperbolic LCS boundaries by a simple particle integration without the consideration of the flow map gradient. We use these hyperbolic LCS as a ground truth solution for testing an existing numerical approach for extracting hyperbolic trajectories. In addition, we are able to construct hyperbolic LCS curves that are significantly longer than in existing numerical methods.
Reliability of evidence‐review methods in restoration ecology
Authors: Romanelli João P. , Meli Paula , Naves Rafaela P. , Alves Marcelo C. , Rodrigues Ricardo R.
Published: December 2020

In restoration science, evidence reviews play a crucial role in summarizing research findings in practice and policy. However, if unreliable or inappropriate methods are used to review evidence, decisions based on these reviews may not accurately reflect the available evidence base. To assess the current value of restoration reviews, we examined a sample of meta‐analyses and narrative syntheses (n = 91) with the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence Synthesis Assessment Tool (CEESAT), which uses detailed criteria to assesses the method of policy‐relevant evidence synthesis according to elements important for objectivity, transparency, and comprehensiveness. Overall, reviews scored low based on this standard: median score 16 out of 39, modal score 15, and mean 16.6. Meta‐analyses scored higher than narrative syntheses (median 17 vs. 5, respectively), although there were some outlier narrative syntheses that had high scores, suggesting that quantitative synthesis does not solely reflect the reliability of a review. In general, criteria spanning the more fundamental review stages (i.e., searching for studies and including studies) received low scores for both synthesis types. Conversely, criteria comprising the later stages of the review (i.e., critical appraisal, data extraction, and data synthesis) were generally well described in meta‐analyses; thus, these criteria achieved the highest individual CEESAT scores. We argue that restoration ecology is well positioned to advance so‐called evidence‐based restoration, but review authors should elucidate their conceptual understanding of evidence syntheses and recognize that conducting reliable reviews demands the same methodological rigor and reporting standards used in primary research. Given the potential of evidence reviews to inform management, policy, and research, it is of vital importance that the overall methodological reliability of restoration reviews be improved.
African Swine Fever threatens Southeast Asia's 11 endemic wild pig species
Authors: Luskin Matthew Scott , Meijaard Erik , Surya Selly , Sheherazade  , Walzer Chris , Linkie Matthew
Published: December 2020

The spread of the most recent African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Asia since late 2018 poses a significant threat to endemic pig species and socioeconomic security. Within domestic pigs and free‐living Eurasian wild boars (bothSus scrofa) in Asia, ASF causes almost 100% case fatality. The ongoing ASF epidemic has so far caused the death of over one hundred million domestic pigs, causing unprecedented economic impacts on the global pork industry. Transmission among free‐living wild boars has been reported, and transmission to threatened Asian pig species is probable but lacks research. Our assessment reveals a near‐term risk for Southeast Asia's 11 endemic pig species, which have small population sizes and small ranges that may be insufficient to withstand the initial, lethal onslaught of the disease. The decline of pigs also triggers cascading impacts for endangered carnivores, plant communities, and livelihoods of millions of people. Our management recommendations include time‐critical research themes, improved emerging infectious disease detection through site‐based monitoring and surveillance paired with online reporting and proper carcass disposal.
Geometry effects on mode I brittle fracture in U‐notched specimens
Authors: Bahadori Robab , Ayatollahi Majid R. , Razavi Nima , Berto Filippo
Published: December 2020

The effects of geometrical constraints on the fracture initiation location and the fracture strength are evaluated in U‐notched specimens using theoretical and experimental analyses. It is proven that high geometrical constraints in pure mode I loading of geometrically symmetric U‐notched specimens can result in occurrence of the maximum tangential stress (MTS) at two symmetric points on both sides of the notch bisector line. The experiments also indicated that the fracture takes place from a direction that is not along the notch bisector line. The experimental results are then examined theoretically through a stress‐based brittle fracture criterion. Because the conventional MTS criterion was poor to predict the onset of fracture properly, an attempt is made to use the generalized MTS (GMTS) criterion by considering the higher order terms in the fracture model. It is shown that the GMTS criterion gives very good predictions for experimentally obtained values of crack initiation angle and notch fracture resistance.
Climate‐driven conifer mortality in Siberia
Authors: Kharuk Viacheslav I. , Im Sergei T. , Petrov Il’ya A. , Dvinskaya Maria L. , Shushpanov Alexandr S. , Golyukov Alexei S.
Published: December 2020

Aim

An increase in conifer mortality has been observed widely across the boreal forest biome. We investigate the causes of this mortality, in addition to the geospatial and temporal dynamics of mortality, in Siberian pine and fir stands.

Location

Central Siberia.

Time period

1950–2018.

Major taxa studied

Pinus sibirica Du Tour and Abies sibirica Ledeb.

Methods

We used geospatial analysis of satellite‐derived (MODIS, Landsat) data, topography (elevation, slope steepness and exposure) and climatic variables [precipitation, thermal degree days (TDD = ∑(t > 0 °C), standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) and root zone moisture content (RZM)], together with in situ data. Dendrochronology was applied for analysis of the radial growth increment (GI).

Results

Siberian pine and fir mortality has increased greatly in recent decades. The mortality of forest stands and trees was dependent on the TDD, RZM and SPEI. Mortality occurred mainly within the southern part of the species ranges and decreased northward, correlated with latitudinal gradients of TDD and SPEI. Mortality was observed mostly at elevations < 1,000 m and decreased with increasing elevation, whereas the area of forests and GI of trees increased with elevation. Forest mortality was preceded by the changes in tree GI. Since the onset of climate warming, GI increased until a breakpoint in the mid‐1980s. Further temperature increase caused a reduction in GI owing to moisture stress and division of the tree population into “decliners” and “survivors”. Mortality was caused by the combined impact of moisture stress and bark beetle attacks.

Main conclusion

Siberian pine and fir mortality was preceded by a reduction in the GI of trees caused by elevated air temperatures, acute droughts and subsequent insect attacks. Forest mortality was observed mostly at low elevations, whereas within the areas with sufficient moisture availability (at elevations c. < 1,000 m) the tree GI and forest area increased. With the projected increase in drought, Siberian pine and fir trees are predicted to retreat from their southern low‐elevation ranges.
Intersecting marginalities: International students' struggles for “survival” in COVID‐19
Authors: Coffey Julia , Cook Julia , Farrugia David , Threadgold Steven , Burke Penny Jane
Published: December 2020

This article draws on examples from a study of the impacts of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) shutdowns on young hospitality workers in Melbourne and Newcastle, Australia, in May and June of 2020. We explore how existing vulnerabilities related to gender, migrant status, and precarious hospitality work were intensified by the impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic for young women international students in our study. The international students we discuss were exposed to extreme financial precarity, which rendered them vulnerable to other gendered forms of risk and exploitation, including taking part in experimental drug trails and having to take off‐the‐books cleaning work for a “creep.” These students described feeling “unwelcome” or “unwanted” through open racial discrimination, or comments from the Prime Minister that international students should “go home.” We take an embodied intersectional approach to detail how existing conditions of marginality such as gender, migrant status, economic vulnerability, and precarious conditions of hospitality labor are compounded in the pandemic and exacerbate inequalities, manifesting in increased threats to physical safety and wellbeing.
A novel rapid immunoassay of serum type IV collagen 7S for the diagnosis of fibrosis stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases
Authors: Shima Toshihide , Ohtakaki Yukie , Kikuchi Hitoshi , Uchino Hiroki , Isomura Mitsuo , Aoyagi Katsumi , Oya Hirohisa , Katayama Takayuki , Mitsumoto Yasuhide , Mizuno Masayuki , Umemura Atsushi , Yamaguchi Kanji , Itoh Yoshito , Okanoue Takeshi
Published: December 2020

Aim

Type IV collagen 7S (T4C7S) is a valuable biomarker for detecting liver fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The conventional T4C7S measurement via radioimmunoassay (T4C7S RIA) has shortcomings of radioisotope usage and longer assay periods. We compared T4C7S RIA with a newly developed, fast T4C7S chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (T4C7S CLEIA) and examined the diagnostic accuracies of and correlation between the two techniques.

Methods

We evaluated 170 biopsy‐confirmed patients with NAFLD. T4C7S was measured via both T4C7S RIA and T4C7S CLEIA. The correlation between T4C7S RIA and T4C7S CLEIA was analyzed in 305 total serum samples via exploratory research and 47 validation samples. The diagnostic accuracies of T4C7S CLEIA and T4C7S RIA were compared in the sera of patients with NAFLD and test samples.

Results

Sera T4C7S levels of T4C7S CLEIA and T4C7S RIA significantly correlated in patients' samples via exploratory (r = 0.914, P = 0.000) and validation (r = 0.929, P = 0.000) research. At a 10% coefficient, T4C7S CLEIA concentration was 0.26 ng/ml in the serum samples, indicating high accuracy at even low concentrations. T4C7S CLEIA revealed distinct changes between each stage and high sensitivity in detecting the F2 stage, indicating a higher sensitivity in detecting low fibrosis stages than T4C7S RIA in patients with NAFLD.

Conclusions

The T4C7S CLEIA correlated well with the T4C7S RIA. Favorably, the T4C7S CLEIA has a higher sensitivity and rapid measurement time and requires a small sample volume; thus, it is a promising and popular biomarker for fibrosis stage diagnosis in NAFLD.
Effects of a prescribed, supervised exercise programme on tumour disease progression in oncology patients undergoing anti‐cancer therapy: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Salamon Georgia , Dougherty Daniella , Whiting Lauren , Crawford Gregory B. , Stein Brian , Kotasek Dusan
Published: December 2020

Background

Exercise promotes numerous advantages in both health and disease, and is increasingly being acknowledged to improve overall survival in cancer patients. Preclinical studies indicate a direct effect on tumour behaviour, but human data on the effect of exercise on tumour progression are lacking.

Aims

To capture preliminary clinical data regarding the impact of a prescribed, supervised exercise programme on cancer disease progression.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 137 matched pairs of patients. All patients referred to LIFT Cancer Care Services (LIFT) supervised exercise programme between 2018 and 2019 were matched with non‐LIFT patients from the oncology practice database. Disease progression via staging computed tomography scans ± tumour markers was compared for each match. Secondary outcomes were changes in neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and death. Results were analysed by logistical regression and adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

Patients from the LIFT group had a 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.61) decreased odds of disease progression and 76% (OR = 0.24, 95% CI 0.12‐0.47) decreased odds of death compared with the non‐LIFT group. No effect on the number of LIFT sessions on disease progression was demonstrated. The LIFT group had a mean final NLR reading 3.48 (−5.89 to −1.09) lower than the non‐LIFT group.

Conclusion

Supervised exercise programmes have the potential to significantly improve outcomes in cancer patients due to an effect on tumour progression.
Adaptation and Validation of a Chart‐Based Delirium Detection Tool for the ICU (CHART‐DEL‐ICU)
Authors: Krewulak Karla D. , Hiploylee Carmen , Ely E. W. , Stelfox Henry T. , Inouye Sharon K. , Fiest Kirsten M.
Published: December 2020

OBJECTIVE

To adapt and validate a chart‐based delirium detection tool for use in critically ill adults.

DESIGN

Validation study.

SETTING

Medical‐surgical intensive care unit (ICU) in an academic hospital.

MEASUREMENTS

A chart‐based delirium detection tool (CHART‐DEL) was adapted for use in critically ill adults (CHART‐DEL‐ICU) and compared with prospective delirium assessments (i.e., clinical assessments (reference standard) by a research nurse trained by a neuropsychiatrist and routine delirium screening tools Confusion Assessment Method (CAM‐ICU)) and (Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC)). The original CHART‐DEL tool was adapted to include physician‐reported ICDSC score (for probable delirium) and Richmond‐Agitation Sedation Scale score (for altered level of consciousness and agitation). Two trained chart abstractors blinded to all delirium assessments manually abstracted delirium‐related information from medical charts and electronic medical records and rated if delirium was present (four levels: uncertain, possible, probable, definite) or absent (no evidence).

RESULTS

Charts were manually abstracted for delirium‐related information for 213 patients who were included in a prospective cohort study that included prospective delirium assessments. The CHART‐DEL‐ICU tool had excellent interrater reliability (kappa = 0.90). Compared to the reference standard, the sensitivity was 66.0% (95% CI = 59.3–72.3%) and specificity was 82.1% (95% CI = 78.0–85.7%), with a cut‐point that included definite, probable, possible, and uncertain delirium. The AUC of the CHART‐DEL‐ICU alone is 74.1% (95% CI = 70.4–77.8%) compared with the addition of the CAM‐ICU and ICDSC (CAM‐ICU/CHART‐DEL‐ICU: 80.9% (95% CI = 77.8–83.9%), P = .01; ICDSC/CHART‐DEL‐ICU: 79.2% (95% CI = 75.9–82.6%), P = .03).

CONCLUSION

A chart‐based delirium detection tool has improved diagnostic accuracy when combined with routine delirium screening tools (CAM‐ICU and ICDSC), compared to a chart‐based method on its own. This presents a potential for retrospective detection of delirium from medical charts for research or to augment routine delirium screening methods to find missed cases of delirium.
Association between rosacea and cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Jiawen , Yan Yang , Jiang Peiyu , Liu Zijing , Liu Yunyi , Liu Yixuan , Wang Xiaoyan , Li Min , Xu Yang
Published: December 2020

Background

Rosacea and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are chronic inflammatory disorders. While CVD is the leading cause of mortality globally, increasing evidence indicates that CVD prevalence could be higher among patients with rosacea.

Aims

This review aimed to determine the association between the prevalence of CVD and rosacea.

Patients/Methods

A systematic review of observational studies with controls available in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was conducted. We performed a pooled meta‐analysis using random‐effects weighting. Overall, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria, which indicated increased odds for at least one risk factor of CVD, including diabetes, high blood pressure, or dyslipidemia.

Results

The pooled meta‐analysis indicated an association of rosacea with higher odds of insulin resistance or diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97‐1.45), high systolic blood pressure (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.35‐2.84), dyslipidemia (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.19‐1.88), and CVD (OR, 6.65; 95% CI, 2.80‐15.76). No publication bias was detected. The effect of confounding factors due to overlapping symptoms and lack of individual‐level data were limitations of this review.

Conclusion

Patients with rosacea have a high risk of CVD. However, further studies are warranted to confirm the association between rosacea and CVD.
Biodiversity food dataset: Centralizing chemical composition data to allow the promotion of nutrient‐rich foods in Brazil
Authors: Grande Fernanda , Giuntini Eliana Bistriche , Coelho Kristy Soraya , Purgatto Eduardo , Franco Bernadette Dora Gombossy de Melo , Lajolo Franco Maria , Menezes Elizabete Wenzel de
Published: December 2020

Centralizing chemical composition data for biodiverse foods is an important strategy in promoting their consumption. To support this strategy, a dataset of foods based on Brazilian biodiversity was created. The set was based on data for foods produced or commercialized in Brazil; these data were previously compiled for the Brazilian Food Composition Table (TBCA), according to international guidelines. Inclusion criteria were based on the following indicators: (i) foods with description below species level; (ii) wild foods; and (iii) underutilized foods. The dataset contains 1,305 food entries, and the majority correspond to raw plant foods. Nutrient content in foods identified below species level exhibited a wide range of values. Underutilized foods presented similar or higher selected nutrient contents than commonly consumed foods. For instance, depending on the cultivar of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), vitamin A content ranged from a negligible amount to high content (0.33‐ to 3,637‐μg retinol equivalents per 100‐g edible portion on a fresh weight basis [EP]). Camu‐camu (Myrciaria dubia), a fruit from Amazon, was identified as the richest source of vitamin C (2,300 mg of ascorbic acid per 100‐g EP), corresponding to 48‐fold the content of orange. The dataset provides evidence to promote nutrient‐rich foods that may be integrated into more effective programmes and policies on nutrition and food security in Brazil. It can be accessed online, free of charge on the TBCA platform.
Seed dormancy profiles for forest dynamics plot data: focusing on a tropical seasonal rainforest in Xishuangbanna, southwest China
Authors: Liu Y. , Baskin C. C. , Baskin J. M. , Yang J. , Cao M. , Wen B.
Published: December 2020

Long‐term forest dynamics monitoring plots provide information on number of individual species in the plot, allowing us for the first time to construct seed dormancy profiles at the species and individual levels for a specific site.

Focusing on the Xishuangbanna tropical season rainforest plot (XTRDP), we used data from nine forest dynamics plots (two for tropical, four for subtropical and three for temperate) and information on kind of seed dormancy to generate seed dormancy profiles for communities across tropical to temperate latitudes at the species and individual levels. Seed dormancy information was collected from previous publications, and some data were provided by two germplasm banks that test seed germination of wild plants in China.

In XTRDP, 35% of the species and 58% of individuals have non‐dormant seeds; the dominant species have non‐dormant seeds. In all plots, the most common kind of dormancy among species and individuals with dormant seeds was physiological dormancy. At the species level, the profile for tropical, subtropical and temperate plots was similar to profiles for each of these vegetation regions. In all plots, except one subtropical plot, the percentage of species versus individuals with dormant seeds differed. All temperate plots had a higher percentage of individuals than species with dormant seeds, but this pattern was not consistent for tropical or subtropical plots.

We show that dormancy increases with latitude at both the species and individual levels. Dormancy profiles at the individual tree level provide new insight into seed dormancy relationships within plant communities.
Formation of retromer transport carriers is disrupted by the Parkinson disease‐linked Vps35D620Nvariant
Authors: Cui Yi , Yang Zhe , Flores‐Rodriguez Neftali , Follett Jordan , Ariotti Nicholas , Wall Adam A. , Parton Robert G. , Teasdale Rohan D.
Published: December 2020

Retromer core complex is an endosomal scaffold that plays a critical role in orchestrating protein trafficking within the endosomal system. Here we characterized the effect of the Parkinson's disease‐linked Vps35 D620N in the endo‐lysosomal system using Vps35 D620N rescue cell models. Vps35 D620N fully rescues the lysosomal and autophagy defects caused by retromer knock‐out. Analogous to Vps35 knock out cells, the endosome‐to‐trans‐Golgi network transport of cation‐independent mannose 6‐phosphate receptor (CI‐M6PR) is impaired in Vps35 D620N rescue cells because of a reduced capacity to form endosome transport carriers. Cells expressing the Vps35 D620N variant have altered endosomal morphology, resulting in smaller, rounder structures with less tubule‐like branches. At the molecular level retromer incorporating Vps35 D620N variant has a decreased binding to retromer associated proteins wiskott–aldrich syndrome protein and SCAR homologue (WASH) and SNX3 which are known to associate with retromer to form the endosome transport carriers. Hence, the partial defects on retrograde protein trafficking carriers in the presence of Vps35 D620N represents an altered cellular state able to cause Parkinson's disease.
Variation in the MRI appearance of the canine pituitary gland
Authors: Travetti Olga , White Crystal , Labruyère Julien , Dunning Mark
Published: December 2020

A recent publication described pathological findings in the pituitary gland incidentally discovered during routine necropsies of the brain of dogs and cats; however, imaging characteristics of these lesions were not reported. Aims of this retrospective, observational study were to characterize MRI variants and incidental lesions in pituitary glands of dogs with no clinical signs of pituitary disease. Cranial MRIs from dogs with no suspicion of pituitary disease, based on history and presenting clinical signs, were retrieved from a veterinary teleradiology database during the period of January 2014 to January 2016. Images were reinterpreted by two observers and pituitary lesions were described based on consensus. A total of 580 scans were evaluated and pituitary lesions were detected in 78 dogs (13.44%). Pituitary cystic lesions were the most common finding and occurred in 31 dogs (5.34%). Of these 31 dogs, the majority (74%) were of toy or brachycephalic breed. Partial or total empty sella lesions were detected in 14 dogs (2.41%), and all of these were small or toy breeds. A significantly increased incidence of the partial empty sella lesion was found in male dogs (P = .034). Pituitary lesions greater than 1 cm occurred rarely (0.69%). There was a significant association between low‐field (LF) MRI strength and detection of a partial or total empty sella lesion (P = .0112), and detection of a pituitary lesion greater than 1 cm (P = .0125). A significant difference was present between the MRI field strength (FS) that identified pituitary cysts and the FS that detected an empty sella (P = .0068), with the former being a high FS and the latter a LF strength. The findings from this study indicated that up to 13% of dogs with no presenting clinical signs of pituitary disease may have MRI pituitary lesions.
The role of autonomic pathways in peripheral apelin‐induced gastrointestinal dysmotility: involvement of the circumventricular organs
Authors: Sinen Osman , Bülbül Mehmet
Published: December 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Are central autonomic pathways and circumventricular organs involved in apelin‐induced inhibition of gut motility?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Peripherally administered apelin‐13 inhibits gastric and colonic motor functions through sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic pathways, which seems to be partly mediated by the apelin receptor in circumventricular organs.

Peripheral administration of apelin‐13 has been shown to inhibit gastrointestinal (GI) motility, but the relevant mechanisms are incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate (i) whether the apelin receptor (APJ) is expressed in circumventricular structures involved in autonomic functions, (ii) whether they are activated by peripherally administered apelin, (iii) the role of autonomic pathways in peripheral exogenous apelin‐induced GI dysmotility, and (iv) the changes in apelin levels in the extracellular environment of the brain following its peripheral application. Ninety minutes after apelin‐13 administration (300 μg kg−1, i.p.), gastric emptying (GE) and colon transit (CT) were measured in rats that underwent parasympathectomy and/or sympathectomy. Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were also collected from another group of rats that received apelin‐13 or vehicle injection. The immunoreactivities for APJ and c‐Fos in circumventricular organs (CVOs) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Compared with vehicle‐treated rats, GE and CT were inhibited significantly by apelin‐13 treatment, and were completely restored in animals that underwent the combination of parasympathectomy and sympathectomy and sympathectomy alone, respectively. Apelin concentrations were elevated in both plasma and CSF following peripheral administration of apelin‐13. APJ expression was detected in area postrema (AP), subfornical organ and organum vasculosum of lamina terminalis, and c‐Fos expression was observed in response to apelin injection. Apelin‐induced c‐Fos expression in AP was partially attenuated by pretreatment with the cholecystokinin‐1 receptor antagonist lorglumide, whereas it was completely abolished in vagotomized rats. The present data suggest that APJ in CVOs could indirectly contribute to the inhibitory action of peripheral apelin on GI motor functions.
Dynamic Behaviors of Postbuckled Thin Film on Flexible Substrates Considering Viscoelastic Effects
Authors: Wang Yi , Cui Xinbo , Fu Haoran , Zhao Qi , Li Yuhang
Published: December 2020

Stretchable electronic systems based on controllable compressive buckling can be further endowed with superior compliance and stretchability. However, such systems are usually restrained by the interference from different loads in practical applications, so it is desirable to study their dynamic behaviors. In this article, an analytical model is developed on the linear free vibrations of a buckled thin film attached to a flexible substrate, whose results can be verified by the finite element analysis (FEA). In the model, the film is considered as an Euler–Bernoulli beam, and the substrate is assumed as a Pasternak foundation with Kelvin viscoelasticity. The natural frequencies and their corresponding vibration modes of the buckled film with the substrate are obtained. The results indicate that the increases of stiffness and damping of the substrate have negative effects on the natural frequencies. The damping influences the low-order modes a lot but not the high-order modes. This study may provide some suggestions for the dynamic design of buckled thin films on flexible substrates. For example, the controllable vibration attenuation can be achieved by choosing the substrate with appropriate viscoelasticity.
Influence of nitrogen gas flow ratio on gallium nitride film growth using high-density convergent plasma sputtering device at room temperature
Authors: Motomura T. , Tabaru T. , Fujio Y. , Okuyama T.
Published: December 2020

The influence of the nitrogen gas ratio on the gallium nitride (GaN) film growth has been investigated using a high-density convergent plasma sputtering device at room temperature. To obtain a highly reactive environment for GaN film growth, the convergent magnetic field lines assist the high-density plasma transport near the target surface. An orthogonal array in the design of experiments was used to effectively investigate GaN film growth conditions. To optimize the GaN film growth conditions, we focus on four sputtering parameters: (1) the N2 gas flow ratio, (2) the inflowing ion current to the target, (3) the process gas pressure, and (4) the target-substrate distance. The N2 gas flow ratio mainly characterizes the growth condition of c-axis oriented wurtzite-structure GaN films on an unheated glass substrate. The full width at half maximum of the rocking curve for the GaN(0002) peak position decreases to 3.9° in the growth condition with 100% nitrogen at room temperature.
Personal audio system for neckband headset with low computational complexity
Authors: Jeon Se-Woon , Choi Jung-Woo
Published: December 2020

Personal audio systems have been developed based on various approaches with the goal of synthesizing an isolated sound zone that avoids disturbing others in different locations. In this work, a near-field solution for a neckband headset using three loudspeakers positioned close to each ear is proposed. In particular, it is an attempt to derive a simple multichannel filter for reducing the computational cost in mobile devices. Unlike super-directive beamforming techniques, the controlled radiation pattern is not highly directional but can boost the near-field sound, thereby providing an extra sound level difference between the listener's ear locations and far-field surrounding areas. For this purpose, a multichannel filter is designed using a conventional pressure matching technique for reproducing a target signal at the ear location while suppressing sound radiation to a far-field. It is shown that the optimal filter weights can be successfully approximated in the form of a simple broadside differential array pattern. The simplified filter structure can be realized using only two second-order infinite impulse response filters for driving the middle and two side loudspeakers. Through various simulations and experiments, it is demonstrated that the proposed solution can effectively realize a personal audio system with a minimal loss of sound isolation performance.
Temporal and spatial characteristics of the Beaufort Sea ambient noise environment
Authors: Chen R. , Schmidt H.
Published: December 2020

Underwater ambient noise from the Beaufort Sea, collected in March 2016, is analyzed to investigate the effect that environmental changes in the region have on the spatial and temporal characteristics of the ice-generated ambient noise. In particular, the influx of warm Pacific water, so called the Beaufort Lens, has dramatically altered the level and vertical directionality of ambient noise, creating a low noise zone in the ∼75–250 m depth interval with a noise notch at low grazing angles. It is also demonstrated how the observed noise vertical directionality is consistent with ice-mechanical activity along an active pressure ridge ∼30–50 km from the recording array, as shown by satellite imagery. The discrete ranges to this ice activity explain the peak arrival angles between −10 to −15 degrees in noise vertical directionality, as well as the horizontal noise notch. Transient noise events associated with the ice activity are analyzed using an image processing approach with hierarchical clustering applied to the recorded spectrograms. The observed events are grouped into three categories—short-time-broadband, long-time-narrowband, and long-time-broadband—each likely generated through a different mechanism by the ice cover. The spectral and temporal distribution of these transients are discussed.
Influence of Spatial Scale on Structure of Soil Bacterial Communities across an Arctic Landscape
Authors: Malard Lucie A. , Anwar Muhammad Z. , Jacobsen Carsten S. , Pearce David A.
Published: December 2020

The significance of this study is 3-fold. It investigated the influence of spatial scale on the soil bacterial community composition across a typical Arctic landscape and demonstrated that conclusions reached when examining the influence of specific environmental variables on bacterial community composition are dependent upon the spatial scales over which they are investigated.
COVID-19 in children treated with immunosuppressive medication for kidney diseases
Authors: Marlais Matko , Wlodkowski Tanja , Al-Akash Samhar , Ananin Petr , Bandi Varun Kumar , Baudouin Veronique , Boyer Olivia , Vásquez Luciola , Govindan Sukanya , Hooman Nakysa , Ijaz Iftikhar , Loza Reyner , Melgosa Marta , Pande Nivedita , Pape Lars , Saha Anshuman , Samsonov Dmitry , Schreuder Michiel F , Sharma Jyoti , Siddiqui Sahar , Sinha Rajiv , Stewart Heather , Tasic Velibor , Tönshoff Burkhard , Twombley Katherine , Upadhyay Kiran , Vivarelli Marina , Weaver Donald J , Woroniecki Robert , Schaefer Franz , Tullus Kjell
Published: December 2020

Background

Children are recognised as at lower risk of severe COVID-19 compared with adults, but the impact of immunosuppression is yet to be determined. This study aims to describe the clinical course of COVID-19 in children with kidney disease taking immunosuppressive medication and to assess disease severity.

Methods

Cross-sectional study hosted by the European Rare Kidney Disease Reference Network and supported by the European, Asian and International paediatric nephrology societies. Anonymised data were submitted online for any child (age <20 years) with COVID-19 taking immunosuppressive medication for a kidney condition. Study recruited for 16 weeks from 15 March 2020 to 05 July 2020. The primary outcome was severity of COVID-19.

Results

113 children were reported in this study from 30 different countries. Median age: 13 years (49% male). Main underlying reasons for immunosuppressive therapy: kidney transplant (47%), nephrotic syndrome (27%), systemic lupus erythematosus (10%). Immunosuppressive medications used include: glucocorticoids (76%), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (54%), tacrolimus/ciclosporine A (58%), rituximab/ofatumumab (11%). 78% required no respiratory support during COVID-19 illness, 5% required bi-level positive airway pressure or ventilation. Four children died; all deaths reported were from low-income countries with associated comorbidities. There was no significant difference in severity of COVID-19 based on gender, dialysis status, underlying kidney condition, and type or number of immunosuppressive medications.

Conclusions

This global study shows most children with a kidney disease taking immunosuppressive medication have mild disease with SARS-CoV-2 infection. We therefore suggest that children on immunosuppressive therapy should not be more strictly isolated than children who are not on immunosuppressive therapy.