bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of GSDME compensates for GSDMD deficiency in a mouse model of NLRP3 inflammasomopathy
Authors: Wang Chun , Yang Tong , Xiao Jianqiu , Xu Canxin , Alippe Yael , Sun Kai , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi , Monahan Joseph B. , Abu-Amer Yousef , Lieberman Judy , Mbalaviele Gabriel
Published: January 2021

The D301N NLRP3 mutation in mice (D303N in humans) causes severe multi-organ damage and early death driven by the constitutively activated NLRP3 (NLRP3ca) inflammasome. Triggered inflammasomes activate caspase-1 to process IL-1 family cytokines and gasdermin D (GSDMD), generating N-terminal fragments, which oligomerize within the plasma membrane to form pores, which cause inflammatory cell death (pyroptosis) and through which IL-1β and IL-18 are secreted. GSDMD activation is central to disease symptoms since spontaneous inflammation inNlrp3ca;Gsdmd-/-mice is negligible. Unexpectedly, whenNlrp3ca;Gsdmd-/-mice were challenged with LPS or TNF-α, they secreted high amounts of IL-1β and IL-18, suggesting an alternative GSDMD-independent inflammatory pathway. Here we show that GSDMD deficient macrophages subjected to inflammatory stimuli activate caspase-8, -3 and GSDME-dependent cytokine release and pyroptosis. Caspase-8, -3 and GSDME also activated pyroptosis when NLRP3 was stimulated in caspase-1 deficient macrophages. Thus, a salvage caspase-8, -3-GSDME inflammatory pathway is activated following NLRP3 activation when the canonical NLRP3-caspase-1-GSDMD is blocked. Surprisingly, the active metabolite of the GSDMD-inhibitor disulfiram, inhibited not only GSDMD but also GSDME-mediated inflammationin vitroand suppressed severe inflammatory disease symptoms inNlrp3camice, a model for severe neonatal multisystem inflammatory disease. Although disulfiram did not directly inhibit GSDME, it suppressed inflammasome activation in GSDMD-deficient cells. Thus, the combination of inflammatory signals and NLRP3caoverwhelmed the protection provided by GSDMD deficiency, rewiring signaling cascades through caspase-8, -3 and GSDME to propagate inflammation. This functional redundancy suggests that concomitant inhibition of GSDMD and GSDME may be necessary to suppress disease in inflammasomopathy patients.
Neuron-type specificity of dorsal raphe projections to ventral tegmental area
Authors: Chang Anna J. , Wang Lihua , Lucantonio Federica , Adams Maya , Lemire Andrew L. , Dudman Joshua T. , Cohen Jeremiah Y.
Published: January 2021

The midbrain dorsal raphe (DR) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) contain two of the brains main ascending neuromodulatory transmitters: serotonin and dopamine. We studied the pathway from DR to VTA using single-cell RNA sequencing, anatomical tracing, and electrophysiology and behavior in mice. Single-cell sequencing confirmed a differential distribution of dopamine cell types between medial and lateral aspects of the VTA. This molecular diversity included differential expression of a subset of glutamatergic and serotonergic receptors. Anatomical data showed that distinct serotonergic and glutamatergic populations of DR neurons project to distinct medial-lateral locations in VTA. Physiological data showed that serotonergic neurons are positioned to excite putative dopaminergic neurons in lateral VTA on short timescales (within trial), and inhibit them on long timescales (on the next trial). Our results reveal precise anatomical specificity of DR projections to VTA, and suggest a functional role for serotonergic modulation of dopaminergic function across multiple timescales.
Geographic search, potential absorptive capacity and radical innovation performance: the moderating role of collaborative network
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhu Lei , Lyu Chongchong
Published: January 2021

Purpose

A firm's geographic boundaries represent an important demarcation line when searching for new knowledge. Prior research on geographic search has generated conflicting results concerning its influence on firm innovation outcomes. The purpose of this study is to fill the gap by examining how and under which conditions geographic search affects firm radical innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study hypothesizes a positive association between a firm's geographic search and radical innovation performance, which is mediated by potential absorptive capacity (PAC). It further proposes that the influence of geographic search on PAC will be moderated by a firm's collaborative network. Drawing on a random sample of 286 Chinese manufacturing firms, the theoretical model is tested.

Findings

The study's results show a positive relationship between geographic search and radical innovation performance, which is partially mediated by PAC. Moreover, attributes of collaborative networks (i.e. diverse location of and strong relational ties with partners) are observed to enhance the positive effect of geographic search on PAC.

Originality/value

This paper advances the understanding of how and when firms can better capture the benefits of geographic search in the development of radical innovation.
Dynamic capabilities for the creation of logistics flexibility – a conceptual framework
Authors: Sandberg Erik
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop a conceptual framework in which dynamic capabilities (DCs) for the creation of logistics flexibility are outlined, and elaborate it further based on empirical data from a case study at a Swedish fast fashion retailer.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework that aims to delineate the relationship between generic classes of DCs and logistics flexibility is proposed. Thereafter, based on a theory elaboration approach, empirical data from a case study at a Swedish fast fashion retailer is used to identify more specific DCs and further outline the characteristics of the DCs classes.

Findings

The proposed framework draws on the three DC classes of sensing, seizing and reconfiguring, and how they underscore logistics range and logistics response flexibility. The framework also distinguishes between DC classes and logistics flexibility that occur at operational, structural and strategic levels. DCs for the creation of logistics flexibility at a Swedish fast fashion retailer have also been identified and described as a means to further elaborate the characteristics of the DC classes.

Research limitations/implications

Current empirical data is limited to one specific company context.

Practical implications

The research presents a systematic and comprehensive map of different DCs that underscore logistics flexibility, a useful tool supporting logistics development efforts regarding flexibility.

Originality/value

The establishment of a more detailed DC lens, in which different classes of DCs are included, means that an improved understanding for how flexibility is created can be achieved. It helps the research to move beyond the “here and now” existence of logistics flexibility to instead focus on how logistics flexibility can be created.
Correlates of intimate partner violence in Bhutan: Evidence from the 2012 National Health Survey
Authors: Phuntsho Sonam , Dendup Tashi , Putra I Gusti Ngurah Edi , Gurung Mongal Singh , Pelzom Dorji , Wangmo Neyzang
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper is to examine the factors associated with partner violence (IPV) in Bhutan.

Design/methodology/approach

The nationally representative National Health Survey data conducted in 2012 was used. The survey included 12,210 women aged 15–75 years. Multiple logistic regression accounting for complex survey design was performed to assess the possible association of the putative factors with physical, sexual, psychological and any IPV experienced in the past 12 months before the survey.

Findings

Alcohol consumption, quarrelling habits and extramarital relationships of husbands/partners were associated with the experience of all types and any IPV. Women performing household chores had increased odds of sexual and any IPV, and those whose husbands had low education levels were more likely to experience physical IPV. Women living in households with >9 members had reduced odds of physical and any IPV. Women married to older husbands/partners were less likely to be psychologically abused. Women from poorer wealth quintiles and who married before reaching 18 years of age also had greater odds of any IPV.

Originality/value

Poor relationship quality, alcohol use, household size, low education, early marriage, poor wealth status and husband’s age were factors associated with one or more types of IPV in Bhutan. Interventions to reduce alcohol use, transform social norms, promote healthy relationships and enhance female empowerment through socio-economic programs may help prevent IPV.
Dietary habits in Japanese patients with palmoplantar pustulosis
Authors: Serizawa Naotaka , Okazaki Shizuka , Otsuka Yohei , Koto Mototaka , Okabe Kyochika , Ito Michiko , Morita Takashi , Hoashi Toshihiko , Saeki Hidehisa , Abe Namiko , Mori Miho , Okubo Yukari , Yano Yumiko , Mitsui Hiroshi , Kanda Naoko
Published: January 2021

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic dermatitis characterized by sterile intra‐epidermal pustules associated with erythema and scales on the palms and soles. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α/interleukin (IL)‐23/IL‐17 inflammatory pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of PPP, and the skin lesions manifest the enhanced expression of IL‐8 in keratinocytes and increased levels of antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin, leucine leucine‐37 in vesicles/pustules. Some PPP patients are associated with arthro‐osteitis, called pustulotic arthro‐osteitis (PAO). Dietary habits may modulate the pathogenesis of PPP, however, have not been investigated in PPP patients. We evaluated dietary habits in adult Japanese PPP patients, using a validated, brief‐type self‐administered diet history questionnaire, and compared their results to those of age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. The results in PPP patients with PAO were compared to those in the patients without. Japanese PPP patients showed higher body mass indices (BMIs), higher intakes of pulses and sugar/sweeteners, and lower intake of vitamin A, compared to those of healthy controls. The bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that PPP was associated with high BMI, high intake of pulses, and low intake of vitamin A. The sodium intake and BMI were positively correlated with palmoplantar pustulosis area and severity index (PPPASI). The linear multivariate regression analysis revealed that sodium intake and BMI were predictors of PPPASI. The age and sodium intake in the patients with PAO were lower than those in the patients without. The bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that PAO was negatively associated with age and sodium intake. This is the first study showing the dietary habits in patients with PPP. Further studies should clarify if the dietary intervention to correct the BMI and sodium intake will alter the progress of PPP.
Widening the Screen: Playful Responses to Challenges in Online Therapy with Children and Families
Authors: Vermeire Sabine , Van den Berge Luc
Published: January 2021

The growing demand for online work with children, youngsters and their families during the Covid19 pandemic presented new challenges. The well‐trodden roads had to be left. In this article we explore novel online ideas in systemic and narrative therapy. Playfulness in online work invites curiosity, vividness and collaboration, and vice versa. We conceive of it as an antidote for pitfalls and as an inspiration for responses to the threat of reductionism that lurks around the corner, especially in online work. It offers a stepping stone to a serious exploration and sharing of experiences, stories and meanings that help to develop richer understandings and more creative ideas. It is a source of new ways of relating for family members as well as for the therapist and the family. Finally, playfulness enables the weaving of threads and experiencing a sense of continuity between sessions. We illustrate our quest using several case stories.

Practitioner points

Playfulness as an atmosphere, attitude and intervention in online work invites curiosity, vividness and collaboration (and vice versa) while opening new therapeutic possibilities.

Keeping a broad systemic scope and inviting members of the actual and imaginary network works as an antidote to the threat of reductionism in online therapy.

A playful use of the online medium creates new relational dances between family members as well as between the therapist and the family.
Peritoneal sodium removal compared to glucose absorption in peritoneal dialysis patients treated by continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis and automated peritoneal dialysis with and without a daytime exchange
Authors: Tangwonglert Theerasak , Davenport Andrew
Published: January 2021

Sodium removal in peritoneal dialysis (PD) depends on convective clearance, typically generated by a glucose gradient, but this can result in glucose absorption. We wished to determine which factors determine peritoneal sodium losses to glucose absorption (PD Na/Gluc). Peritoneal sodium losses and glucose absorption were calculated from measured 24‐h collections of PD effluent, in patients attending for assessment of peritoneal membrane function. Five hundred and fifty eight patients; 317 (56.8%) males, mean age 56.1 ± 16.0 years, were studied, 281 treated by automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) with a daytime exchange (50.4%); 179 (32.1%) by APD and 98 (17.6%) by continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). All patients used glucose containing dialysates, with 352 (63.1%) using icodextrin and 210 (37.6%) hypertonic (22.7 g/L glucose) dialysates. The ratio of PD Na/Gluc was 0.14 (0.02–0.29). Patients using icodextrin had a higher ratio (0.16 (0.03–0.32) versus 0.11 (−0.02–0.26), P < .001), as did those using 22.7 g/L glucose versus 13.6 g/L (0.16 (0.06–0.32) versus 0.13 (−0.01–0.19), P < .01), and CAPD versus APD (0.18 (0.05–0.36) versus 0.11 (0.0–0.27), P < .05), respectively. A multivariable model showed that 24‐h ultrafiltration (odds ratio [OR] 7.6 (95% confidence interval [3.9–14.8]), P < .001 was associated with increased PD Na/Gluc, whereas APD (OR 0.19 (0.06–0.62), P < .01 and increased extracellular water to total body water (OR 0.001 [0–0.08], P = .03) were associated with lower ratios. Twenty four‐hour peritoneal ultrafiltration was strongly associated with PD Na/Gluc, whereas patients treated with APD cyclers without a daytime icodextrin exchange and those with an increased extracellular water to total body water had lower peritoneal sodium losses but with greater peritoneal glucose absorption.
Artificial diet development for mass rearing and its effect on the reproduction of yellow peach moth, Conogethes punctiferalis (Guenée)
Authors: Jing Dapeng , Zhang Tiantao , Bai Shuxiong , He Kanglai , Prabu Sivaprasath , Wang Zhenying
Published: January 2021

Yellow peach moth, Conogethes punctiferalis (Guenée) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a very destructive fruit borer in Eastern Asia and Australia. A successful artificial diet and rearing protocol are urgently needed for its biological control and research. In this study, we developed and assessed four artificial diets: AD‐1, AD‐2, AD‐3 and AD‐4, for rearing yellow peach moth larvae. AD‐1 is effective supplements, leading to the larval survival rate of 82.05%, percentage of pupation 79.48%, mean pupa weight of 76.53 mg, emergence rate of 95.25%, and an adult fecundity rate of 121 eggs/female. Using it to feed can shorten the whole generation developmental period to 33 days. Based on this diet AD‐1, we also develop a suitable mass rearing method. During the larval stages providing three‐ to four‐time fresh diet can keep a healthy larval colony.
Tracing dual entry beyond the Eurocentric boundary
Authors: Wang Jenny Jing , Cortese Corinne
Published: January 2021

This paper aims to trace the origins of dual entry beyond a Eurocentric boundary. The aim can be refined further by asking: did the Chinese use dual entry and how did dual entry appear in Europe. Double entry is more advanced as it includes the location of the account in which the contra entry is made. Dual entry approaches accounting, like mathematics, as a tautology, whereby an equation is constructed from a simple axiom. Defined as such, this paper argues that the concept of dual entry had its earliest origins in China.
An exploratory study of perfectionism, professional factors and psychological well‐being of dentistry academics
Authors: Teixeira H , Lalloo R , Evans JL , Fuss J , Pachana NA , Nović A , Burton NW
Published: January 2021

Background

Well‐being might be lower among dentistry professionals than other health professionals, and differ by personal, professional and sociodemographic factors. Few studies have considered dentistry academics who have different work roles and functions than clinicians. This exploratory study focused on well‐being among dentistry academics and aimed to explore associations with perfectionism, professional factors and sociodemographics.

Method

An online survey was carried out with academic staff in Dentistry and Oral Health departments of nine Universities in Australia and New Zealand. Well‐being was assessed using the 22‐item Psychological General Well‐Being Index, with a maximum score of 110 indicating good well‐being. Perfectionism was assessed using the 8‐item Short Almost Perfect Scale, with a maximum score of 56 and a higher score indicating perfectionism. Twenty items were used to assess professional and 7 items assessed sociodemographic factors. Associations were explored using correlation and multiple linear regression.

Results

There was no significant bivariate association between perfectionism and well‐being. Multiple linear regression indicated a significant association between hours of undergraduate teaching and psychological well‐being, after adjustment for age, gender, income and overall health.

Conclusion

This exploratory study showed poor well‐being among dentistry academics, particularly in those teaching undergraduate students for more than 6 h/week.
Psychometric properties of the assessment of COVID‐19 attitudes and behaviors
Authors: Silverstein Madison W. , Mekawi Yara , Alonzi Sarah P. , La Torre Adelaide
Published: January 2021

Developing psychometrically validated assessment tools to examine social and intergroup processes related to COVID‐19 is fundamental for creating interventions that reduce the spread of this virus. Thus, this manuscript aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of a new measure, Assessment of COVID‐19 Attitudes and Behaviors (ACAB), that assesses COVID‐19‐related attitudes (e.g., about physical distancing, xenophobia), behaviors (e.g., helping others versus prioritizing own needs), and beliefs (e.g., about others’ roles in spreading COVID‐19). We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA, CFA) to provide factor analytic support and Fisher's r‐to‐z transformation to provide construct validity evidence. EFA revealed and CFA confirmed a four‐factor structure of social distancing adjustment, self‐prioritization, prosocial behaviors, and belief in conspiracies. Fisher's r‐to‐z transformation provided evidence for the construct validity of the four factors. This psychometrically validated instrument will enhance social science researchers’ ability to accurately identify and explicate psychological processes related to COVID‐19.
Gene expression in the striatum of cynomolgus monkeys after chronic administration of cocaine and heroin
Authors: Choi Mi Ran , Jin Yeung‐Bae , Kim Han‐Na , Chai Young Gyu , Im Chang‐Nim , Lee Sang‐Rae , Kim Dai‐Jin
Published: January 2021

Cocaine and heroin cause impairment of neural plasticity in the brain including striatum. This study aimed to identify genes differentially expressed in the striatum of cynomolgus monkeys in response to cocaine and heroin. After chronic administration of cocaine and heroin in the monkeys, we performed large‐scale transcriptome profiling in the striatum using RNA‐Seq technology and analysed functional annotation. We found that 547 and 1238 transcripts were more than 1.5‐fold up‐ or down‐regulated in cocaine‐ and heroin‐treated groups, respectively, compared to the control group, and 3432 transcripts exhibited differential expression between cocaine‐ and heroin‐treated groups. Functional annotation analysis indicated that genes associated with nervous system development (NAGLU, MOBP and TTL7) and stress granule disassembly (KIF5B and KLC1) were differentially expressed in the cocaine‐treated group compared to the control group, whereas gene associated with neuron apoptotic process (ERBB3) was differentially expressed in the heroin‐treated group. In addition, IPA network analysis indicated that genes (TRAF6 and TRAF3IP2) associated with inflammation were increased by the chronic administration of cocaine and heroin. These results provide insight into the correlated molecular mechanisms as well as the upregulation and down‐regulation of genes in the striatum after chronic exposure to cocaine and heroin.
Feasible interventions for children in foster care according to service users and practitioners
Authors: Sørensen Kresta Munkholt , Sjoe Nina Madsen
Published: January 2021

Multiple obstacles exist to introducing evidence‐based methods in social work practice. The study directly interacts with social work practice and maps the interventions practice prioritizes when supporting children or parents. Specifically, the study examines service users' and practitioners' assessment of the feasibility of systematically evaluated interventions in the everyday life of foster care families. To integrate the different perspectives, we use a three‐step process comprising a systematic review of interventions for children in foster care, a literature review of challenges faced by the children to assist with choosing the most relevant interventions and a discussion of findings with service users and practitioners. The systematic review identified 51 interventions. The literature review revealed three common challenges: collaboration with the birth family, behavioural issues and social problem solving. We reduced the 51 interventions to 13 for discussions in workshops and interviews with service users and practitioners and ended up with two feasible interventions: incredible years and collaboration meetings. The first has been evaluated in several randomized studies, whereas the second has been evaluated qualitatively. Our analysis points to a profession where systematic and evidence‐based knowledge is subordinated to a pragmatism that prioritizes budgeting and prior knowledge of interventions.
Hybrid physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic model for remdesivir: Application to SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Gallo James M.
Published: January 2021

A novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) or coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), has caused a pandemic that continues to cause catastrophic health and economic carnage and has escalated the identification and development of antiviral agents. Remdesivir (RDV), a prodrug and requires intracellular conversions to the active triphosphate nucleoside (TN) has surfaced as an active anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 drug. To properly design therapeutic treatment regimens, it is imperative to determine if adequate intracellular TN concentrations are achieved in target tissues, such as the lungs. Because measurement of such concentrations is unrealistic in patients, a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed to characterize RDV and TN disposition. Specifically, a hybrid PBPK model was developed based on previously reported data in humans. The model represented each tissue as a two‐compartment model—both extracellular and intracellular compartment wherein each intracellular compartment contained a comprehensive metabolic model to the ultimate active metabolite TN. Global sensitivity analyses and Monte‐Carlo simulations were conducted to assess which parameters and how highly sensitive ones impacted peripheral blood mononuclear cells and intracellular lung TN profiles. Finally, clinical multiple‐dose regimens indicated that minimum lung intracellular TN concentrations ranged from ~ 9 uM to 4 uM, which suggest current regimens are effective based on in vitro half‐maximal effective concentration values. The model can be used to explore tissue drug disposition under various conditions and regimens, and expanded to pharmacodynamic models.
Sequence and functional differences in the ATPase domains of CHD3 and SNF2H promise potential for selective regulability and drugability
Authors: Hoffmeister Helen , Fuchs Andreas , Komives Elizabeth , Groebner‐Ferreira Regina , Strobl Laura , Nazet Julian , Heizinger Leonhard , Merkl Rainer , Dove Stefan , Längst Gernot
Published: January 2021

Chromatin remodelers use the energy of ATP hydrolysis to regulate chromatin dynamics. Their impact for development and disease requires strict enzymatic control. Here, we address the differential regulability of the ATPase domain of hSNF2H and hCHD3, exhibiting similar substrate affinities and enzymatic activities. Both enzymes are comparably strongly inhibited in their ATP hydrolysis activity by the competitive ATPase inhibitor ADP. However, the nucleosome remodeling activity of SNF2H is more strongly affected than that of CHD3. Beside ADP, also IP6 inhibits the nucleosome translocation of both enzymes to varying degrees, following a competitive inhibition mode at CHD3, but not at SNF2H. Our observations are further substantiated by mutating conserved Q‐ and K‐residues of ATPase domain motifs. The variants still bind both substrates and exhibit a wild‐type similar, basal ATP hydrolysis. Apart from three CHD3 variants, none of the variants can translocate nucleosomes, suggesting for the first time that the basal ATPase activity of CHD3 is sufficient for nucleosome remodeling. Together with the ADP data, our results propose a more efficient coupling of ATP hydrolysis and remodeling in CHD3. This aspect correlates with findings that CHD3 nucleosome translocation is visible at much lower ATP concentrations than SNF2H. We propose sequence differences between the ATPase domains of both enzymes as an explanation for the functional differences and suggest that aa interactions, including the conserved Q‐ and K‐residues distinctly regulate ATPase‐dependent functions of both proteins. Our data emphasize the benefits of remodeler ATPase domains for selective drugability and/or regulability of chromatin dynamics.
NUPR1 interacts with eIF2α and is required for resolution of the ER stress response in pancreatic tissue
Authors: Borrello Maria Teresa , Santofimia‐Castaño Patricia , Bocchio Marco , Listi Angela , Fraunhoffer Nicolas , Soubeyran Philippe , Chevet Eric , Pin Christopher , Iovanna Juan
Published: January 2021

Nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1) is a stress response protein overexpressed upon cell injury in virtually all organs including the exocrine pancreas. Despite NUPR1's well‐established role in the response to cell stress, the molecular and structural machineries triggered by NUPR1 activation remain largely debated. In this study, we uncover a new role for NUPR1, participating in the unfolded protein response (UPR) and the integrated stress response. Biochemical results and ultrastructural morphological observations revealed alterations in the UPR of acinar cells of germline‐deleted NUPR1 murine models, consistent with the inability to restore general protein synthesis after stress induction. Bioinformatic analysis of NUPR1‐interacting partners showed significant enrichment in translation initiation factors, including eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) 2α. Co‐immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays confirmed the interaction between NUPR1 and eIF2α and its phosphorylated form (p‐eIF2α). Furthermore, our data suggest loss of NUPR1 in cells results in maintained eIF2α phosphorylation and evaluation of nascent proteins by click chemistry revealed that NUPR1‐depleted PANC‐1 cells displayed a slower poststress protein synthesis recovery when compared to wild‐type. Combined, these data propose a novel role for NUPR1 in the integrated stress response pathway, at least partially through promoting efficient PERK branch activity and resolution through a unique interaction with eIF2α.
Dispersal syndromes drive the formation of biogeographical regions, illustrated by the case of Wallace’s Line
Authors: White Alexander E. , Dey Kushal K. , Stephens Matthew , Price Trevor D.
Published: January 2021

Aim

Biogeographical regions (realms) reflect patterns of co‐distributed species (biotas) across space. Their boundaries are set by dispersal barriers and difficulties of establishment in new locations. We extend new methods to assess these two contributions by quantifying the degree to which realms intergrade across geographical space and the contributions of individual species to the delineation of those realms. As our example, we focus on Wallace’s Line, the most enigmatic partitioning of the world’s faunas, where climate is thought to have little effect and the majority of dispersal barriers are short water gaps.

Location

Indo‐Pacific.

Time period

Present day.

Major taxa studied

Birds and mammals.

Methods

Terrestrial bird and mammal assemblages were established in 1‐degree map cells using range maps. Assemblage structure was modelled using latent Dirichlet allocation, a continuous clustering method that simultaneously establishes the likely partitioning of species into biotas and the contribution of biotas to each map cell. Phylogenetic trees were used to assess the contribution of deep historical processes. Spatial segregation between biotas was evaluated across time and space in comparison with numerous hard realm boundaries drawn by various workers.

Results

We demonstrate that the strong turnover between biotas coincides with the north‐western extent of the region not connected to the mainland during the Pleistocene, although the Philippines contains mixed contributions. At deeper taxonomic levels, Sulawesi and the Philippines shift to primarily Asian affinities, resulting from transgressions of a few Asian‐derived lineages across the line. The partitioning of biotas sometimes produces fragmented regions that reflect habitat. Differences in partitions between birds and mammals reflect differences in dispersal ability.

Main conclusions

Permanent water barriers have selected for a dispersive archipelago fauna, excluded by an incumbent continental fauna on the Sunda shelf. Deep history, such as plate movements, is relatively unimportant in setting boundaries. The analysis implies a temporally dynamic interaction between a species’ intrinsic dispersal ability, physiographic barriers, and recent climate change in the genesis of Earth’s biotas.
Cell count‐based parameters and algorithms for thalassaemia trait screening in the southern Chinese population
Authors: Xu Jialong , Yang Yeru , Zhou Huanbin , Huang Xiaoxin , Chen Bizhen , Chen Nuan , Wu Yinge
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Thalassaemia trait (TT) is potential to be missed clinically, especially normocytic thalassaemia. We aimed to establish discriminant functions (DFs) and an algorithm for detecting microcytic or normocytic TT in epidemiological screening.

Methods

The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the diagnostic performance of the proposed formulas in differentiating TT and nonthalassaemia (non‐TT). DFs combined the two blood count parameters with the highest performance, based on the area under the curve (AUC) value, into mathematical formulas, using logistic regression. The diagnostic efficacy of DFs was subsequently evaluated in 761 participants, and reliability (including adjusted agreement [AA] and Kappa values) and validity (including sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio and Youden's Index) were calculated.

Results

Among microcytic participants, the proposed DFs showed good diagnostic performance (in females: AUC = 0.892 [DF1 = 0.015 × RDW‐CV/RBC − 0.096 × RDW‐SD/RBC + 1.29], in males: AUC = 0.861 [DF2=−0.025 × RDW‐SD/RBC − 0.035 × MCV/RBC + 1.415]). Youden's Index, AA and Kappa values for microcytic TT detection were 0.72, 0.86, and 0.72 and 0.63, 0.81 and 0.63 for females and males, respectively. In normocytic participants with RDW‐CV/RBC ≤ 3.54, DF3=−0.38 × MCH−0.02 × MCHC+17.37 achieved AUC = 0.857 in females, whereas DF4 = 0.007 × MCV−0.113 × MCH+2.829 achieved AUC = 0.969 in males. The Youden's Index, AA and Kappa values for the proposed DFs for thalassaemia detection were 0.69, 0.84 and 0.67 in females, 0.76, 0.91 and 0.71 in males, respectively.

Conclusion

The proposed DFs performed well in the detection of TT among participants with microcytic and normocytic parameters and could be utilized in epidemiological study for TT.
Pre‐emptive remifentanil alleviates pain associated with tracheal suctioning in patients under mechanical ventilation and goal‐directed sedation: A randomized controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Deng Peng , Hao Liqun , Deng Yan , Yao Rong , Cao Yu
Published: January 2021

Aims

To investigate the efficacy of pre‐emptive remifentanil in alleviating pain during tracheal suctioning in patients under mechanical ventilation.

Background

Goal‐directed sedation is recommended for patients under mechanical ventilation by the current guidelines. Whether goal‐directed sedation can prevent pain during tracheal suctioning in these patients is unknown.

Design

This was a two‐centre, randomized, crossover, single‐blind trial conducted between August and October 2019.

Methods

Patients under mechanical ventilation received low‐dose remifentanil, high‐dose remifentanil or placebo prior to each tracheal suctioning in a random order. The primary outcomes were evaluated using the critical‐care pain observation tool and Richmond agitation–sedation scale after tracheal suctioning. Adverse events were also documented.

Results

A total of 39 patients who underwent 117 tracheal suctions were enrolled. After the tracheal suction, changes in the critical‐care pain observation tool and Richmond agitation–sedation scale scores were significantly lower in the low‐dose and high‐dose groups than in the placebo group (P < 0.001). A non‐significant increase in the absence of spontaneous breathing was observed in the high‐dose group compared to that in the placebo group.

Conclusion

A pre‐emptive remifentanil bolus of 0.5 μg/kg can mitigate the pain associated with tracheal suctioning.
Migrant health professionals’ systemic human rights vulnerabilities
Authors: Breakey Hugh , Ransome William , Sampford Charles
Published: January 2021

This article investigates whether the methods by which states implement citizens’ human rights possess serious weaknesses for ensuring migrant health professionals’ rights. Stemming from the discipline of normative philosophy, the moral approach to human rights sees rights as implemented through multiple waves of duties delivered by state‐managed integrity systems. We argue that this otherwise comparatively reliable method can fail to deliver adequate outcomes to migrant health professionals. These professionals can encounter problems stemming from the following: their lack of political priority as non‐citizens; the challenges to effective monitoring of migrant health professional pathways and outcomes; the incapacity of federal lawmakers to impact on key policy levers; the ever‐present threat of “pathways to nowhere”; and state‐enabled employee exploitation. The findings provide a philosophically grounded foundation for acknowledging the human rights concerns of even high‐skilled migrants, and show why special regimes for rights protection, facilitation and monitoring are necessary for migrant health professionals.
The evolutionary history of sedges (Cyperaceae) in Madagascar
Authors: Larridon Isabel , Spalink Daniel , Jiménez‐Mejías Pedro , Márquez‐Corro José Ignacio , Martín‐Bravo Santiago , Muasya Muthama , Escudero Marcial
Published: January 2021

Aim

Madagascar is renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and endemism. With many ecosystems under threat, research is urgently needed on its unique plant diversity. This applies both to Madagascar's forests and treeless vegetation types. Sedges (Cyperaceae) are among the top 10 species‐richest angiosperm families in Madagascar (310 native species, 38% endemic), of which two‐thirds occur in open habitats. We aimed to infer the evolutionary history of sedges in Madagascar, by estimating the number, age and origins of endemic lineages, and how they diversified on the island. We tested contrasting hypotheses of (a) few colonizations but important in situ radiations against (b) a high number of anagenetic colonizations.

Location

Madagascar and the surrounding Indian Ocean islands, integrated within a global dataset.

Taxon

Sedge family Cyperaceae.

Methods

We estimated time‐calibrated molecular phylogenies encompassing a large proportion of Madagascar's known sedge flora (incl. 55% of native species), integrating sequence data for 1,382 accessions representing almost 25% of the c. 5,600 sedge species worldwide, combined with ancestral area reconstruction, diversification analyses and Bayesian stochastic mapping.

Results

Cyperaceae lineages arrived in Madagascar from c. 40 Mya with many arriving more recently. About 20 endemic lineages of Cyperaceae occur on the island, of which only six encompass more than five species. All except one of the endemic lineages that diversified in Madagascar use the C3 photosynthetic pathway. The main biogeographical links of Madagascar's sedge flora are to Southern and Tropical Africa.

Main conclusions

The biogeographical history of Cyperaceae in Madagascar is a chronicle of relatively recent multiple in and out processes of long‐distance dispersal colonizations constrained by distance. Also, the Madagascar region is not only a ‘sink’ for immigrant taxa, in situ diversification and dispersal to other regions also occurred. Some of the most diverse endemic lineages show clear adaptation to local environments.
Food Insecurity Among Older Adults: 10‐Year National Trends and Associations with Diet Quality
Authors: Leung Cindy W. , Wolfson Julia A.
Published: January 2021

Background/Objectives

Food insecurity has emerged as a critical health issue for older adults. Food insecurity has been shown to disrupt healthy eating patterns, but these associations have not been widely studied among older adults. The objectives of the present study were to: (1) examine national trends in food insecurity across a 10‐year period, and (2) evaluate the associations between food insecurity and multiple diet quality indices in a recent and nationally representative sample of adults aged 60 or older.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of the 2007–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys.

Setting

Nationally representative sample of the United States.

Participants

The analytic sample was comprised of 5,097 adults aged 60 or older, with household incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.

Measurements

Household food security was measured using the 18‐item US Household Food Security Survey Module. Diet was assessed using two 24‐hour dietary recalls. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models examined the associations between household food security and three evidence‐based diet quality indices, adjusting for sociodemographic and health characteristics.

Results

Across the 10‐year period, food insecurity increased significantly from 5.5% to 12.4% among older adults; this increase was more pronounced among lower‐income older adults. From the linear regression models, food insecurity was associated with lower scores on the Healthy Eating Index (β = −1.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −3.70, −0.09), the Alternate Healthy Eating Index‐2010 (β = −1.47, 95% CI = −2.51, −0.44), and the Mediterranean Diet Score (β = −0.54, 95% CI = −1.06, −0.01) after multivariate adjustment. Further adjustment for the presence of chronic medical conditions did not attenuate these results.

Conclusion

Food insecurity is associated with lower overall diet quality among older adults, supporting the need for clinical efforts to identify those at risk of food insecurity and public health efforts to alleviate food insecurity and promote healthy eating behaviors among older adults.
Intrapartum fetal heart rate patterns and perinatal outcome in chorioamnionitis at or beyond 34 weeks of gestation
Authors: Muraoka Junsuke , Kodama Yuki , Ohashi Masanao , Goto Tomoko , Sameshima Hiroshi
Published: January 2021

Aim

To investigate intrapartum fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns in women with chorioamnionitis at or beyond 34 weeks of gestation in relation to neonatal outcome and to compare clinical and subclinical chorioamnionitis.

Methods

A retrospective questionnaire survey on deliveries during 2015 was conducted by the Perinatology Committee of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology from 2016 to 2018. A total of 498 singleton births complicated by chorioamnionitis delivered at ≥34 weeks of gestation without major congenital malformations were included. The subjects were divided into clinical and subclinical chorioamnionitis groups based on Lencki's criteria. Poor perinatal outcome was defined as death or brain damage. We analyzed clinical features, FHR patterns in the last 2 h before delivery, gestational age, birthweight, Apgar score, umbilical arterial blood gas analysis, and infant's outcome.

Results

Incidence of chorioamnionitis at ≥34 weeks of gestation was 0.59% (522/87827). Clinical and subclinical chorioamnionitis comprised 240 and 258 cases, respectively. Abnormal FHR patterns (late deceleration or decreased baseline variability) were significantly associated with poor perinatal outcome. Combined late deceleration and decreased variability showed low positive predictive value (12.8%) and high negative predictive value (99.5%), and was significantly associated with long‐term poor outcome in clinical chorioamnionitis only (odds ratio: 29.4, p < 0.01). Poor perinatal outcome showed no significant difference between the clinical and subclinical chorioamnionitis groups.

Conclusions

Combined late deceleration and decreased variability could predict poor perinatal outcome in clinical chorioamnionitis. Poor perinatal outcome occurred in infants born to mothers with clinical and subclinical chorioamnionitis.
Prevalence and 6‐month recovery of olfactory dysfunction: a multicentre study of 1363 COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Lechien J. R. , Chiesa‐Estomba C. M. , Beckers E. , Mustin V. , Ducarme M. , Journe F. , Marchant A. , Jouffe L. , Barillari M. R. , Cammaroto G. , Circiu M. P. , Hans S. , Saussez S.
Published: January 2021

Objective

To investigate prevalence and recovery of olfactory dysfunction (OD) in COVID‐19 patients according to the disease severity.

Methods

From 22 March to 3 June 2020, 2581 COVID‐19 patients were identified from 18 European hospitals. Epidemiological and clinical data were extracted at baseline and within the 2‐month post‐infection.

Results

The prevalence of OD was significantly higher in mild form (85.9%) compared with moderate‐to‐critical forms (4.5–6.9%; P = 0.001). Of the 1916 patients with OD, 1363 completed the evaluations (71.1%). A total of 328 patients (24.1%) did not subjectively recover olfaction 60 days after the onset of the dysfunction. The mean duration of self‐reported OD was 21.6 ± 17.9 days. Objective olfactory evaluations identified hyposmia/anosmia in 54.7% and 36.6% of mild and moderate‐to‐critical forms, respectively (P = 0.001). At 60 days and 6 months, 15.3% and 4.7% of anosmic/hyposmic patients did not objectively recover olfaction, respectively. The higher baseline severity of objective olfactory evaluations was strongly predictive of persistent OD (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

OD is more prevalent in mild COVID‐19 forms than in moderate‐to‐critical forms. OD disappeared in 95% of patients regarding objective olfactory evaluations at 6 months.
Thermal Comfort in School Classes in the Era of Global Warming: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Golshan Taylor , Lande Sarah , Nickfardjam Kaitlyn , Cohensedgh Sabrina , Roitblat Yulia , Nehuliaieva Liliia , Khabie David , Stillman Ruby , Volynsky‐Lauson Anna , Mametov Kadri , Shterenshis Michael
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

We investigated adolescents' feelings of thermal comfort during the educational process in various geographical locations far apart and present recommendations for the adjustment of the thermal environment in schools.

METHODS

The prospective international multicenter study took place in 8 locations on different continents. The survey in the form of a questionnaire was carried out among 2800 healthy high school students. The study was divided into “cold season survey,” “warm‐season survey,” and heat wave survey.

RESULTS

The statistically significant difference between the “cold season survey” score of 4.04 (discomfort) and “warm‐season survey” score of 3.47 (slight discomfort) (p = .04) indicates that students feel more thermal discomfort during winter months in all 8 locations. The heat wave survey score was 4.53 (discomfort). During the cold season, 29.24% of high school students felt themselves in full thermal comfort and 76.48% of the students felt themselves relatively comfortable (slightly cool—comfortable—slightly warm).

CONCLUSIONS

Even during the ongoing process of climate change, the cold season discomfort remains the main problem for students in classes. This tendency is present in different continents as a universal problem. We recommend keeping an entrance hall and classroom temperatures at different levels and to advise students about proper clothing.
Switching from entecavir to tenofovir alafenamide for chronic hepatitis B patients with low‐level viraemia
Authors: Li Zhong‐Bin , Li Le , Niu Xiao‐Xia , Chen Song‐Hai , Fu Yi‐Ming , Wang Chun‐Yan , Liu Yan , Shao Qing , Chen Guofeng , Ji Dong
Published: January 2021

Background and Aims

About 20% of patients receiving nucleos(t)ide analogues treatment experienced low‐level viraemia (LLV), which is associated with progression of liver fibrosis and high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of switching from entecavir (ETV) to tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) in ETV‐treated patients with LLV.

Methods

In this prospective study, ETV‐treated patients with LLV, presented to our hospital from December 2018 to October 2019, were enrolled. Switching to TAF or continuing ETV was given. The primary effectiveness endpoint was complete virological response (CVR) at 24 weeks, and the safety endpoint was the first occurrence of any clinical adverse event during the treatment.

Results

Totally, 211 patients were recruited and propensity score matching (PSM) generated 75 patients in either TAF or ETV group. After PSM, baseline characteristics were balanced in two groups. After 24‐week treatment, the CVR and ALT normalization in TAF group were 62.7% and 47.6%, which were higher than 9.3% and 10.5% in ETV group (OR 16.4, 95% CI 6.6‐40.0, P < .001) respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that switching to TAF achieved favours CVR regardless of the status of sex, age, CHB family history, HBV DNA, HBeAg and cirrhosis, whereas alcohol consumption and diabetes mellitus might compromise the CVR of switching to TAF. Both therapies were well tolerated and had satisfying renal safety.

Conclusions

For ETV‐treated patients with LLV, switching to TAF is safe enough and superior compared with continuing ETV monotherapy regarding both virological and biochemical benefits.