bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the European Union capitals in the context of smart sustainable cities
Authors: Lapinskaitė Indrė , Stasytytė Viktorija , Skvarciany Viktorija
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The concept of a smart city, which is relatively new, is analysed from different aspects, including sustainability. Due to rapid urban development, smart city and sustainable city synergy has become an approach supported by the authorities. Hence, the paper aims at assessing and ranking the European Union (EU) capitals in the context of the smart sustainable city (SSC).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper assesses and ranks 19 EU capitals according to 41 indicators. The assessment was done in four steps. First, each target SSC indicator was accessed for each city. Second, the scattering results of each city in the list of indicators were noted. Third, the indicators were ranked using the VIsekriterijumska optimisacija i KOmpromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method. And fourth, both scattering and ranking results were compared.

Findings

The comparison of the scattering and ranking results revealed that almost the same cities share the top ten positions. Although two cities fell out of the top ten, the overall results reinforce the reliability of the research results. Amsterdam ranked as the Number 1 SSC, and Helsinki took the second position.

Originality/value

A comparison of a wide range of indicators highlights the current situation and the disparities between EU capitals. The results could help local and national authorities and policymakers increase the sustainability and smartness of cities.
Morphosyntactic abilities in young children with Down syndrome: Evidence from the Greek language
Authors: Katsarou Dimitra , Andreou Georgia
Published: June 2022

Down syndrome is the most common genetic syndrome of intellectual disabilities with a distinct linguistic profile. Language research so far has come mainly from the English language, a language with different syntax and morphology from many other languages, including Greek, indicating a paucity of research findings in the Greek language. Given the rich morphology and distinct syntactic characteristics of the Greek language, the present study evaluated the performance of children with Down syndrome (N = 45) who are native Greek speakers in syntax and morphology and compared it with the performance of children with typical development (N = 45) matched for chronological age. The paper also analysed the items of each task in terms of the performance of the two groups in subject–verb agreement, noun conversion from singular to plural, and verb conversion from present to past and future tenses. All children were tested in four subscales of a standardized test, including morphosyntactic comprehension, morphosyntactic completion and articulation (parts 1 and 2). The results showed that children with Down syndrome lag behind in syntax and morphology compared with children of typical development and present difficulties in specific aspects of morphology and syntax inherent in the Greek language.

What this paper adds

What is already known on this subject

Morphosyntactic skills are severely impaired in Down syndrome, and research so far has come mainly from the English language, a language with different syntax and morphology from many other languages.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge

This research adds more information about morphosyntactic skills in children with Down syndrome compared with typically developing children in the Greek language, a language with rich morphology and syntax.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

Children with Down syndrome face difficulties in morphosyntactic skills in the Greek language, especially in subject–verb agreement and in converting nouns from singular to plural.
Small RNAs in the Antarctic bacterium Pseudomonas extremaustralis responsive to oxygen availability and oxidative stress
Authors: Solar Venero Esmeralda C. , Matera Gianluca , Vogel Jörg , López Nancy I. , Tribelli Paula M.
Published: June 2022

Bacterial small non‐coding RNAs (sRNAs) play key roles as genetic regulators, mediating in the adaptability to changing environmental conditions and stress responses. In this work, we analysed putative sRNAs identified by RNA‐seq experiments in different aeration conditions in the extremophile bacterium P. extremaustralis. These analyses allowed the identification of 177 putative sRNAs under aerobiosis (A), microaerobiosis (M) and microaerobiosis after H2O2 exposure (m‐OS). The size and transcription profile of eight sRNAs with differential expression were verified by Northern blot. sRNA40, with unknown function but conserved in other Pseudomonas species, was selected to perform overexpression experiments followed by RNA‐seq analysis. The overexpression of sRNA40 in P. extremaustralis resulted in significant expression changes of 19 genes with 14 differentially upregulated and five downregulated. Among the upregulated genes, eight transcripts corresponded to components of secretion systems, such as gspH, gspK, and gspM, belonging to the Type II secretion system, and rspO and rspP from Type III secretion system. Our results showed a novel sRNA which expression was triggered by low oxygen levels, and whose overexpression was associated with upregulation of selected components of protein secretion systems.
Effectiveness of tongue‐tie assessment tools in diagnosing and fulfilling lingual frenectomy criteria: a systematic review
Authors: Hatami A , Dreyer CW , Meade MJ , Kaur S
Published: June 2022

It is unclear how effective tongue‐tie classification assessment tools are in diagnosing symptomatic tongue‐tie and fulfilling lingual frenectomy criteria. The purpose of this systematic review is to determine and evaluate any association between tongue‐tie severity, as measured by pre‐treatment assessment tools, and post‐operative outcome following tongue‐tie division. PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane search engines were used to retrieve articles published between 1947 and 2021. Included studies consisted of patients with symptomatic tongue‐tie, assessment by either the Coryllos, Kotlow, or Hazelbaker Assessment Tool for Lingual Frenulum Function (HATLFF) classification tool, and tongue‐tie division. A total of 205 abstracts were identified; 31 studies met the criteria for a full‐text review, of which, only 14 studies met the criteria for data extraction and analysis. Six studies used the HATLFF, 2 studies used the Kotlow, 5 studies used the Coryllos, and 1 study used a combination of both Kotlow and Coryllos methods. Significant heterogeneity was evident across all studies. No statistical correlation between the two variables could be determined. Although tongue‐tie division procedures appear to provide benefits in breastfeeding and speech, there are no data to suggest a statistically significant association between the severity of tongue‐tie, and the correct identification of patients who would benefit from tongue‐tie division. © 2022 Australian Dental Association.
Truth‐Telling and Education‐Making in a Neighborhood in Mexico City
Authors: Corson Jordan
Published: June 2022

This qualitative study examines educational life in a neighborhood in Mexico City, analyzing how discourses have produced the neighborhood, Tepito, as a place “without education.” Simultaneously, ethnographic research entangles with theories of radical equality and resistance to explore how education emerges and how certain forms of education circulate throughout the neighborhood. Ultimately, everyday life in Tepito reveals rebellious and playful forms of education that challenge dominant educational discourses and open new understandings of educational possibilities.
What did we learn in 35 years of research on nutrition and supplements for age‐related macular degeneration: a systematic review
Authors: Pameijer Els M. , Heus Pauline , Damen Johanna A. A. , Spijker René , Hooft Lotty , Ringens Peter J. , Imhof Saskia M. , van Leeuwen Redmer
Published: June 2022

The aim of this paper is to summarize all available evidence from systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative nonrandomized studies (NRS) on the association between nutrition and antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral supplements and the development or progression of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane register CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase were searched and studies published between January 2015 and May 2021 were included. The certainty of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE methodology. The main outcome measures were development of AMD, progression of AMD, and side effects. We included 7 systematic reviews, 7 RCTs, and 13 NRS. A high consumption of specific nutrients, i.e. β‐carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, copper, folate, magnesium, vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin C, docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid, was associated with a lower risk of progression of early to late AMD (high certainty of evidence). Use of antioxidant supplements and adherence to a Mediterranean diet, characterized by a high consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and nuts and a low consumption of red meat, were associated with a decreased risk of progression of early to late AMD (moderate certainty of evidence). A high consumption of alcohol was associated with a higher risk of developing AMD (moderate certainty of evidence). Supplementary vitamin C, vitamin E, or β‐carotene were not associated with the development of AMD, and supplementary omega‐3 fatty acids were not associated with progression to late AMD (high certainty of evidence). Research in the last 35 years included in our overview supports that a high intake of specific nutrients, the use of antioxidant supplements and adherence to a Mediterranean diet decrease the risk of progression of early to late AMD.
Editorial: COVID‐19 vaccines are safe and effective in patients with inflammatory bowel disease—but many unanswered questions remain
Authors: Benchimol Eric I. , Kuenzig M. Ellen
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bhurwal et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16913 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16935
Letter: non‐selective beta‐blockers in cirrhosis‐effect beyond portal hypertension
Authors: Chauhan Ashish , Bhatia Aakanksha
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Dunne et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16901 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16982
Editorial: seeing the light at the end of gastroscope—Complications after elective procedures are ready for NICE, bright decision aid tools
Authors: Shiratori Yasutoshi , Miller Steven D. , Hutfless Susan
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Crooks et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16946 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16987
Letter: non‐invasive prediction models to exclude cirrhosis in NAFLD—not everyone fits the mould. Authors' reply
Authors: Brandman Danielle , Boyle Marie , McPherson Stuart , Van Natta Mark L. , Sanyal Arun J. , Kowdley Kris , Neuschwander‐Tetri Brent , Chalasani Naga , Abdelmalek Manal F. , Terrault Norah A. , McCullough Art , Bettencourt Ricki , Caussy Cyrielle , Kleiner David E. , Behling Cynthia , Tonascia James , Anstee Quentin M. , Loomba Rohit
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Brandman et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16874 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16931
Letter: paying attention to the comorbidities or extraintestinal complications in patients with inflammatory bowel disease during the COVID‐19 pandemic—authors’ reply
Authors: Hadi Yousaf , Kochhar Gursimran S.
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Yuan et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16915
Letter: the effect of anti‐COVID‐19 treatment on the outcome of patients with inflammatory bowel disease—authors’ reply
Authors: Hadi Yousaf , Kochhar Gursimran S.
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Wang et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16903
Editorial: seeing the light at the end of gastroscope ‐ complications after elective procedures are ready for NICE, bright decision aid tools ‐ authors' reply
Authors: West Joe , Card Timothy R. , Crooks Colin J.
Published: June 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Crooks et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16946 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16961
Towards an agenda for oral history and geography: (Re)locating emotion in family narratives of domestic abuse in 1970s East Kilbride
Authors: Levine Hampton Rosie
Published: June 2022

This paper sets out a research agenda for oral history in/and geography, with a particular focus on emotional historical geographies. With three families' relocation from inner‐city Glasgow to the new town of East Kilbride as the empirical backdrop, I argue that oral history methodology is uniquely well placed to capture both the emotionality and spatiality of historical narratives. Whilst previous reviews across geography and oral history theory have considered important emotional markers such as tone of voice, the expression of feeling and body language, I intervene by focusing on different narrative strategies employed throughout the interview and argue that the geographical remit of an interviewee's memories is inseparable from their emotional brevity. The focus of the paper is therefore threefold. Firstly, I consider the subjective temporalities and spatialities that oral history narrators employ when seeking composure, considering how they might “re‐place” their narratives (and thus themselves) in the interview setting. Secondly, I argue that how interviewees might “re‐place” themselves is inextricable, and as such so is any emotional reading of the interview, from the inter‐subjective relationship produced by such an encounter. Finally, I explore the implications of this methodology for carefully elaborating on the intersection between the intimate geographies of the home, and geographies of violence. How the interviewees witnessed domestic abuse among their families was moulded by the context of their relocation. Moreover, the inter‐subjective relationship, an analysis of which I argue is crucial to the findings of the paper, was also distinctly moulded by that same family context – as I was conducting these interviews with members of my own family.
High‐resolution environmental changes recorded in ostracod and mollusc fauna from the Holsteinian palaeolake at Ortel Królewski II, eastern Poland
Authors: Czajkowska Monika
Published: June 2022

To better understand the environmental variability during the Holsteinian interglacial, fauna of the palaeolake deposits at Ortel Królewski II, eastern Poland was investigated. The analysis covered the uppermost part of the profile, representing the so‐called pre‐optimal part of the Holsteinian interglacial (MIS 11c), namely the Taxus and Pinus‐Larix pollen zones. Variability within the structure and composition of the faunal assemblage enabled a high‐resolution palaeoecological reconstruction – lake level and temperature fluctuations, its trophy and energy of the environment. During the Taxus pollen zone the lake was relatively deep and characterized by medium trophy conditions, which is indicated by a low abundance of molluscs of temporary water bodies and low numbers of Metacypris cordata and Scottia tumida. The temperature was rather stable with only small fluctuations during the transition between the Taxus and Pinus‐Larix zones. The occurrence of some cold‐loving ostracod species within the beginning of the Pinus‐Larix pollen zone indicates some deterioration of thermal conditions, which was additionally confirmed by using the mutual ostracod temperature range (MOTR) method. Lake level drop and expansion of reed zones within the Pinus‐Larix pollen zone are inferred from the increased abundance of shallow water ostracod and mollusc species as well as from an increased Bithynia‐index (BIN). The short cooling event documented early in the Pinus‐Larix zone in the studied profile might be an equivalent to the mid‐MIS 11c cooling, the so‐called Older Holsteinian Oscillation. Thus, the improved knowledge about the climate dynamics recorded within the sediments from this site contributes to a better understanding of the spatial extent and pattern of the climatic changes within the Holsteinian interglacial across Europe.
Altered gut microbiota and metabolites profile are associated with reduced bone metabolism in ethanol‐induced osteoporosis
Authors: Liu Zhao , Xu Xilin , Shen Yiwei , Hao Yuanyuan , Cui Wenwen , Li Wenyan , Zhang Xin , Lv Hang , Li Xiaodong , Hou Yunlong , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: June 2022

Objective

Chronic heavy drinking causes ethanol‐induced osteoporosis (EIO). The present study aimed to explore the role of GM in EIO.

Material and Methods

A rat EIO model was established by chronic ethanol intake. Taking the antibiotic application as the matched group of dysbacteriosis, an integrated 16S rRNA sequencing and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics in serum and faeces were applied to explore the association of differential metabolic phenotypes and screen out the candidate metabolites detrimental to ossification. The colon organoids were used to track the source of 5‐HT and the effect of 5‐HT on bone formation was examined in vitro.

Results

Compared with antibiotics application, ethanol‐gavaged decreased the BMD in rats. We found that both ethanol and antibiotic intake affected the composition of GM, but ethanol intake increased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Elevated serotonin was proved to be positively correlated with the changes of the composition of GM and faecal metabolites and inhibited the proliferation and mineralization of osteogenesis‐related cells. However, the direct secretory promotion of serotonin was absent in the colon organoids exposed to ethanol.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that ethanol consumption led to osteoporosis and intestinal‐specific dysbacteriosis. Conjoint analysis of the genetic profiles of GM and metabolic phenotypes in serum and faeces allowed us to understand the endogenous metabolite, 5‐HT, as detrimental regulators in the gut‐bone axis to impair bone formation.
An association study of ABCG2 rs2231142 on the concentrations of allopurinol and its metabolites
Authors: Pilon Marc‐Olivier , Leclair Grégoire , Oussaïd Essaïd , St‐Jean Isabelle , Jutras Martin , Gaulin Marie‐Josée , Mongrain Ian , Busseuil David , Rouleau Jean Lucien , Tardif Jean‐Claude , Dubé Marie‐Pierre , de Denus Simon
Published: June 2022

ABCG2 is a gene that codes for the human breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). It is established that rs2231142 G>T, a single nucleotide polymorphism of the ABCG2 gene, is associated with gout and poor response to allopurinol, a uric acid‐lowering agent used to treat this condition. It has also been suggested that oxypurinol, the primary active metabolite of allopurinol, is a substrate of the BCRP. We thus hypothesized that carrying the rs2231142 variant would be associated with decreased oxypurinol concentrations, which would explain the lower reduction in uric acid. We performed a cross‐sectional study to investigate the association between the ABCG2 rs2231142 variant and oxypurinol, allopurinol, and allopurinol riboside concentrations in 459 participants from the Montreal Heart Institute Hospital Cohort. Age, sex, weight, use of diuretics, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were all significantly associated with oxypurinol plasma concentration. No association was found between rs2231142 and oxypurinol, allopurinol and allopurinol riboside plasma concentrations. Rs2231142 was not significantly associated with daily allopurinol dose in the overall population, but an association was observed in men, with T carriers receiving higher doses. Our results do not support a major role of ABCG2 in the pharmacokinetics of allopurinol or its metabolites. The underlying mechanism of the association between rs2231142 and allopurinol efficacy requires further investigation.
1018. ASARUM SATSUMENSE: Aristolochiaceae
Authors: Moore Richard , King Christabel
Published: June 2022

Asarum satsumense Maekawa is an evergreen herb native to southern Japan and Taiwan, critically endangered in the wild. It is illustrated with a new painting; its introduction, horticultural merits and cultivation are discussed.
Persistent disparities in diabetes medication receipt by socio‐economic disadvantage in Australia
Authors: Morton Jedidiah I. , Ilomӓki Jenni , Magliano Dianna J. , Shaw Jonathan E.
Published: June 2022

Background

It is unknown how use of newer glucose‐lowering drugs (GLDs) has changed in Australia following the publication of clinical trials demonstrating definitive clinical advantages for glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), and whether this varies by socio‐economic disadvantage.

Methods

We included 1,064,645 people with type 2 diabetes registered on the National Diabetes Services Scheme. This cohort was linked to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme database to evaluate trends in diabetes medication receipt and variation by socio‐economic disadvantage between 2013 and 2019.

Results

The proportion of people with type 2 diabetes receiving ≥3 GLDs concurrently increased from 12% in 2013 to 25% in 2019. By 2019, 6% of people with diabetes were receiving a GLP‐1 RA and 21% an SGLT2i. Disparities in receipt of GLP‐1 RAs and SGLT2is by socio‐economic disadvantage decreased over time (ORs for most vs. least disadvantaged quintile were 0.80 [0.77–0.85] and 0.87 [0.82–0.94] in 2014 and 0.95 [0.92–0.98] and 1.07 [1.05–1.09] in 2019 for GLP‐1 RAs and SGLT2is, respectively). However, people in more disadvantaged areas were more likely to receive multiple GLDs. After stratifying by number of concurrent GLDs received, people in more disadvantaged areas were less likely to receive GLP‐1 RAs and SGLT2is in 2019 (ORs for most vs. least disadvantaged: 0.81 [0.78–0.84] and 0.90 [0.87–0.93] for people receiving ≥3 GLDs, respectively).

Conclusions

After controlling for intensity of glucose‐lowering therapy, people in more disadvantaged areas were less likely to receive cardioprotective GLDs, although disparities decreased over time.
Real world hypoglycaemia related to glucose variability and Flash glucose scan frequency assessed from global FreeStyle Libre data
Authors: Riveline Jean‐Pierre , Wojtusciszyn Anne , Guerci Bruno , Alves Clara , Kao Kalvin , Xu Yongjin , Dunn Timothy C.
Published: June 2022

Aim

Flash glucose monitoring provides a range of glucose metrics. In the current study, we aim to identify those that indicate that glycaemic targets can be consistently met and contrast the total (t‐CV) and within‐day coefficient of variation (wd‐CV) to guide the assessment of glucose variability and hypoglycaemia exposure.

Methods

De‐identified data from Flash readers were collected. The readers were sorted into 10 equally sized groups of scan frequency followed by quartiles of estimated A1c (eA1c). A similar grouping was performed for the total coefficient of variation (t‐CV) and within‐day coefficient of variation (wd‐CV). In addition, analysis of the association of time below 54 mg/dl and glucose variability measured by t‐CV and wd‐CV was performed.

Results

The dataset included 1 002 946 readers. Readers sorted by 10 equal groups of scan rate and quartiles by eA1c, t‐CV and wd‐CV represented 25 074 readers per group. The association of lower eA1c with higher time in range and reduced time above range was clear. The correlation of eA1c quartiles and time below range was not consistent. An association between glucose variability and hypoglycaemia was found. Both wd‐CV and t‐CV were associated with time below range. For achieving the consensus target of <1% time below 54 mg/dl, the associated wd‐CV and t‐CV values were 33.5% and 39.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

The type of CV reported by the different continuous glucose monitoring systems should be acknowledged. CV <36% might not be adequate to ensure low hypoglycaemia exposure. To our knowledge, the majority of continuous glucose monitoring reports the t‐CV. Appropriate thresholds should be used to identify patients that would probably meet time below range targets (t‐CV <40% or wd‐CV <34%).
Resistance in lentil (Lens culinaris) genetic resources to the pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum)
Authors: Das Shimul , Porter Lyndon D. , Ma Yu , Coyne Clarice J. , Chaves‐Cordoba Bernardo , Naidu Rayapati A.
Published: June 2022

The pea aphid (PA), Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), can cause complete yield loss in lentil, Lens culinaris Medik. (Fabaceae, Leguminosae), if not managed properly. Determining lentil genetic resources with resistance to PA is important for integrated pest management (IPM) in production areas worldwide. The objectives of this study were to identify genetic resources and genes associated with resistance to PA in 188 lines of the USDA Lentil Single Plant Core Collection. A cluster analysis of the mean number of adults, nymphs, and total aphids that developed on lentil lines 10 days after infestation with a single aphid identified four clusters associated with aphid resistance: 20 lines were considered resistant, 99 moderately resistant, 51 moderately susceptible, and 18 susceptible. PIs 329157 LSP and 432085 LSP, originating from Iran, demonstrated the best resistance when assessing antibiotic and antixenotic properties. Genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS)‐based single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used for genome‐wide association mapping to locate genes or quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with PA resistance traits, in which six, four, and three SNPs were associated with low numbers of PA adults, nymphs, and total aphids that developed on lentil lines, respectively. Fifteen candidate genes were identified relating to PA resistance. The results can effectively be used in molecular lentil breeding programs to target specific genomic regions associated with PA resistance, as well as in traditional breeding, using lines identified as highly PA‐resistant as parents, to develop durable resistance in lentil cultivars.
Rate of adolescent inpatient admission for psychosis during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A retrospective chart review
Authors: Deren Barbara , Matheson Katherine , Cloutier Paula
Published: June 2022

Aim

Given the concerns for mental health (MH) impacts on children and adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic, as well as the relative paucity of research in this field, this retrospective study compares the rate of paediatric inpatient MH admissions for psychosis for a period of 11 months before and during the pandemic.

Methods

We used administrative data to compare the rate and clinical characteristics of patients (<18 years) admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit for a psychotic illness before (March 17, 2019 to February 17, 2020) and during (March 17, 2020 to February 17, 2021) the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Results showed a 66% increase in inpatient psychosis admissions from pre‐pandemic rates. More males were admitted with psychosis during the pandemic. Age and length of hospitalization were not significantly different across time periods.

Conclusions

Results highlight the importance of accessible MH care for paediatric patients with psychosis during the pandemic.
DNA metabarcoding unravels unknown diversity and distribution patterns of tropical freshwater invertebrates
Authors: Zieritz Alexandra , Lee Ping Shin , Eng Wilhelm Wei Han , Lim Shu Yong , Sing Kong Wah , Chan Wei Ning , Loo Jey Sern , Mahadzir Farah Najwa , Ng Ting Hui , Yeo Darren C.J. , Gan Lydia Xinjie , Gan Jing Ye , Gibbins Christopher , Zoqratt Muhammad Zarul Hanifah Md , Wilson John‐James
Published: June 2022

Tropical freshwater invertebrate species are becoming extinct without being described, and effective conservation is hampered by a lack of taxonomic and distribution data. DNA metabarcoding is a promising tool for rapid biodiversity assessments that has never been applied to tropical freshwater invertebrates across large spatial and taxonomic scales.

Here we use DNA metabarcoding to comprehensively assess the benthic freshwater invertebrate fauna of the Perak River basin, Malaysia. Specific objectives were to: (1) assess performance of two DNA metabarcoding protocols; (2) identify gaps in reference databases; (3) generate new data on species diversity and distribution; and (4) draw conclusions regarding the potential value of DNA metabarcoding in tropical freshwater conservation.

Organisms were collected by hand and net at 34 sites and divided into small (retained in 0.5‐mm but passing through 1‐mm mesh) and large (retained in 1‐mm mesh) fractions, and a 313‐bp cytochrome c oxidase subunit I fragment amplified and sequenced using general Metazoa primers.

Bioinformatic analysis resulted in 468 operational taxonomic units (~species) from 12 phyla. Only 29% of species could be assigned binominal names through matches to public sequence libraries, indicating varying levels of library completeness across Orders. Extraction of small‐fraction DNA with a soil kit resulted in a significantly higher species count than with a general kit, but this was not even across taxa.

Metabarcoding (amplification) success rate, estimated via comparison to morphological identifications of the large‐fraction specimens, was high in most taxa analysed but low, for example, in ampullariid and viviparid gastropods. Conversely, a large proportion of species‐site records for Decapoda and Bivalvia came from metabarcoding only. Species richness averaged 29 ± 16 species per site, dominated by Diptera, Annelida, and Odonata, and was particularly high in tributaries of the mountainous Titiwangsa Range. At least eight species are new records for Malaysia, including the non‐natives Ferrissia fragilis (Gastropoda) and Dugesia notogaea (Platyhelminthes).

Our study showed that DNA metabarcoding is generally more effective in detecting tropical freshwater invertebrate species than traditional morphological approaches, and can efficiently improve knowledge of distribution patterns and ranges of native and non‐native species. However, current gaps in reference databases, particularly for bioindicator taxa, such as the Plecoptera, Ephemeroptera, and Coleoptera, need to be addressed urgently.
Comparing hair tensile testing in the wet and the dry state: Possibilities and limitations for detecting changes of hair properties due to chemical and physical treatments
Authors: Wortmann Franz J. , Quadflieg Jutta M. , Wortmann Gabriele
Published: June 2022

Objectives

This investigation focuses, first, on the question to which extent wet and dry tensile tests on human hair may be considered as leading to independent results. Second, we try to assess the sensitivities of wet and dry‐testing to detect changes of mechanical properties. Specifically, we were interested in separating changes, which were induced by a combination of a chemical (oxidation/bleach) and a physical treatment (heat).

Methods

The basis for our study are data for the tensile properties (wet and dry) of a set of untreated and bleached hair tresses, which were submitted to the same schedule of thermal treatments. As characteristic tensile parameters, we chose modulus (E), break extension (BE), and break stress (BS). First, parameters were analysed across treatments for the correlations between wet and dry data. Second, we applied two‐factor analysis of variance to assess the effects of the factors and their potential interaction.

Results

Correlations for the dry versus wet data show only a weak relationship forE, while coefficients of determination (R2) are quite high forBEandBS. Two‐factor ANOVA enables to quantify the various contributions to theTotal Sum‐of‐Squaresfor all three parameters. We show that the parameters respond quite differently to the chemical and the thermal treatments as well as to testing conditions (wet or dry). It is of interest to note that the interaction between the chemical and the physical treatment is generally quite weak. For the interpretation of the results, we use the concept of the humidity‐dependent as well as strain‐induced glass transition of the amorphous matrix.

Conclusions

The independence hypothesis for dry and wet tensile measurements only applies for modulus. Overall, we consider modulus (wet) as the best tensile measure of fibre damage when assessing chemical and/or physical treatments. Under ambient conditions (dry), break stress is shown to be a feasible alternative measure.
Easy formation process of anatase‐TiO2 coating layer strongly bonded to titanium metal surface
Authors: Ishikawa Toshihiro , Niidome Katsuya
Published: June 2022

Because of the formation of a surface passive film (rutile TiO2) on its surface layer, titanium metal shows adequate corrosion resistance. As the surface layer (passive film) of titanium metal is very stable, any functionalization of the titanium metal has been generally performed using relatively complicated methods. This is because any direct oxidation of titanium metal only leads to the formation of rutile TiO2 over the entire temperature range. Chemical reactions using titanium chemicals can easily produce anatase TiO2 at temperatures of ≤600°C. Using precursors is one of the ways of producing an anatase TiO2 coating on titanium metal. However, in previous studies, anatase TiO2 layers easily peeled off when they were used in flowing water. Herein, we describe a simple process for obtaining an anatase TiO2 coating layer strongly bonded to the titanium metal surface. In our process, titanium metal was pretreated with a reducing agent to create a surface TiH2 layer, whose condensation reaction easily proceeds with a precursor (composed of oxalic acid and tetra‐butoxy titanium). Subsequently, the treated titanium metal was calcinated at 550°C in air to achieve strong bonding between the anatase TiO2 coating layer and titanium metal surface. The treated titanium metal exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity.
Leveraging Indian pulses for plant‐based meat: functional properties and development of meatball analogues
Authors: Penchalaraju Malleboina , Bosco Sowriappan John Don
Published: June 2022

Worldwide, the development of next‐generation plant protein‐based meat analogues has gained popularity because of plant proteins' reliable, sustainable, functional and nutritional benefits. In this work, we study the functional properties of green gram (GG), horse gram (HG) and cowpea protein concentrates (CPPCs) obtained using the alkaline/isoelectric precipitation method and developed the conventional and plant‐based deep‐fried meatballs. The results indicated that all protein concentrates exhibited superior functional properties. All protein concentrates exhibited a typical U‐shaped solubility curve from pH 2 to 9. Emulsification, foaming and gelling properties were found to correlate well with the protein solubility (PS) profile. The least gelation capacity for GGPC was 15%, while HGPC and CPPC required 20% protein to form a gel. Water absorption capacity (WAC), emulsification properties were significantly different for all protein concentrates, but not oil absorption, foaming and protein solubility. A plant‐based deep‐fried meatball formulated using the ratio of 20:20:20 for GGPC: HGPC: CPPC was found to be closely related to the conventional meatballs in terms of taste, flavour and colour. The oil absorbed in plant‐based deep‐fried meatballs was ~4% lower than in conventional deep‐fried meatballs. This research allowed a more in‐depth understanding of the functional characterisation of pulse protein concentrates (PPCs) obtained by alkaline‐isoelectric precipitation and their potential use in developing plant protein‐based meatball analogues. In conclusion, Indian pulses could potentially offer sustainable options for plant protein‐based meat formulations.
Appropriate ultrasonic treatment improves the production of antioxidant peptides by modifying gelatin extracted from yak skin
Authors: He Long , Han Ling , Wang Yanru , Yu Qunli
Published: June 2022

The antioxidant peptide was produced from hydrolysis with Bacillus subtilis proteases supplemented with different duration of ultrasound, and the hydrolysis and structural characteristics of yak skin gelatin (YSG) were characterised. Compared with the excessive ultrasonic treatment (10–40 min), the YSG produced by moderate ultrasonic treatment (5 min) had a higher degree of hydrolysis and the DPPH free radical scavenging ability, and ABTS free radical scavenging activity of the hydrolysate was increased. The results showed that ultrasound for 5 min significantly weakened hydrogen bonds and promoted the exposure of hydrophobic groups, resulting in the loosening of collagen structure. Appropriate ultrasonic treatment obviously changed the gelatin structure, as the changes in the decrease of glass transition temperature, the reduction of particle size and the destruction of the surface morphology. These findings showed that moderate ultrasound (5 min) could modify the structure of YSG and, therefore, has great potential in the production of antioxidant peptides.
The evolution of employee engagement: Towards a social and contextual construct for balancing individual performance and wellbeing dynamically
Authors: Boccoli Gabriele , Gastaldi Luca , Corso Mariano
Published: June 2022

Research demonstrates that high Employee Engagement (EE) sustains job satisfaction and performance among staff. This literature review analyses the evolution of EE, highlighting the theoretical frameworks used to explain the concept, the measurement scales adopted by researchers and the principal antecedents and outcomes relating to EE that have been progressively considered along the way. Three main findings emerge from the analysis. First, we highlight the social and relational nature of EE, providing a more sociological interpretation of this phenomenon. Second, we underscore the fact that EE is dynamic, and when combined with modern digital technologies, it can be studied through innovative approaches. Third, we discuss how EE could be a fundamental ingredient in shifting towards a human centred approach through which balancing individuals’ wellbeing and performance. We discuss the implications of these findings, highlighting the necessity to rethink EE in relation to the new normal ushered in by Covid‐19, and the increasing role of hybrid working.
An organized anarchy? Understanding the role of German cooperation in the construction and export of the dual training model
Authors: Fontdevila Clara , Valiente Oscar , Schneider Sebastian
Published: June 2022

The role of German cooperation as a key force behind the worldwide dissemination of dual training is well‐established within the specialized literature. The multilayered and fragmented nature of the German cooperation landscape suggests that German efforts in this area follow a complex and evolving interplay of motivations—yet the rationales behind Germany's bilateral work in the area of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) have rarely been examined in a systematic way. Additionally, existing approaches to the question of aid motivations as provided by economics and international relations scholarship appear to be ill‐suited to understanding the rationales behind Germany's TVET cooperation efforts. Drawing on a combination of document analysis and interviews with key stakeholders, this paper investigates the heterogeneity of drivers and motivations behind German cooperation efforts in the promotion and export of the dual training model and examines the coordination challenges posed by this diversity. The paper finds that German efforts in the international promotion of dual training are driven by at least three analytically distinct rationales that correspond roughly to three differentiated poles within the German policy space—namely, the economic, development and education arenas. The paper also finds that this diversity of motivations poses important coordination challenges—and that, while recent coordination efforts have succeeded in securing some degree of rhetorical consistency, only limited progress has been made in terms of operational coherence.
Human FOXP3 and tumour microenvironment
Authors: Wang Jia , Gong Ruining , Zhao Chenyang , Lei Ke , Sun Xiaoyuan , Ren He
Published: June 2022

The tumour microenvironment (TME) is a complex system composed of cancer cells, stromal cells and immune cells. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the TME impede immune surveillance of tumours and suppress antitumor immune responses. Transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) is the main marker of Tregs, which dominates the function of Tregs. FOXP3 was originally thought to be a Tregs‐specific expression molecule, and recent studies have found that FOXP3 is expressed in a variety of tumours with inconsistent functional roles. This review summarizes the recent progress of infiltrating Treg‐FOXP3 and tumour‐FOXP3 in TME, discusses the communication mechanism between FOXP3+ cells and effector T cells in TME, the relationship between FOXP3 and clinical prognosis, and the potential of FOXP3‐targeted therapy.
Immunogenicity and efficacy of Ad26.COV2.S: An adenoviral vector–based COVID‐19 vaccine
Authors: Le Gars Mathieu , Hendriks Jenny , Sadoff Jerald , Ryser Martin , Struyf Frank , Douoguih Macaya , Schuitemaker Hanneke
Published: June 2022

Since its emergence in late 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has caused substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of efficacious vaccines, new variants with reduced sensitivity to vaccine‐induced protection are a troubling new reality. The Ad26.COV2.S vaccine is a recombinant, replication‐incompetent human adenovirus type 26 vector encoding a full‐length, membrane‐bound severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) spike protein in a prefusion‐stabilized conformation. This review discusses the immunogenicity and efficacy of Ad26.COV2.S as a single‐dose primary vaccination and as a homologous or heterologous booster vaccination. Ad26.COV2.S elicits broad humoral and cellular immune responses, which are associated with protective efficacy/effectiveness against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, moderate to severe/critical COVID‐19, and COVID‐19–related hospitalization and death, including against emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. The humoral immune responses elicited by Ad26.COV2.S vaccination are durable, continue to increase for at least 2‐3 months postvaccination, and involve a range of functional antibodies. Ad26.COV2.S given as a heterologous booster to mRNA vaccine–primed individuals markedly increases humoral and cellular immune responses. The use of Ad26.COV2.S as primary vaccination and as part of booster regimens is supporting the ongoing efforts to control and mitigate the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Mental health of Spanish nurses working during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Martin‐Rodriguez Leticia San , Escalda‐Hernandez Paula , Soto‐Ruiz Nelia , Ferraz‐Torres Marta , Rodriguez‐Matesanz Irati , Garcia‐Vivar Cristina
Published: June 2022

Aim

To explore the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the mental health of nurses working in primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare centers in Navarre (Spain).

Background

Healthcare workers, especially nurses, are at high risk for developing mental health problems during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Introduction

Spain ranks among the European countries with the highest incidence of and mortality from COVID‐19 and has a 31% deficit in the number of nurses compared with the average for the European Union.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study involving 800 Registered Nurses in Navarre, Spain. Four standardized instruments, along with a self‐administered online questionnaire, were used to measure the impact in terms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and posttraumatic stress disorder. The STROBE checklist for cross‐sectional studies was used to report this study.

Results

Of the 800 nurses, 68% had some level of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and distress, and of these, 38% had moderate or severe symptoms. Those who worked in hospital COVID units and in nursing homes showed a higher impact on their mental health.

Discussion

The sustained pressure that nurses have experienced in their work during the COVID‐19 pandemic has negatively affected their mental health.

Conclusion

This study found that nurses who worked in hospital COVID units and in nursing homes during the pandemic had worse mental health outcomes.

Implications for nursing/policy

Recommendations for nursing policy include the need to implement coaching and emotional programs to support nurses on the frontlines of the pandemic. There is also an urgent need for the implementation of national training programs to strengthen health emergency preparedness, improve response capacity, and increase the resilience of nurses to disasters.
‘You people have brought the virus here’: Othering experience of northeastern people amid COVID‐19 in Delhi, India
Authors: E P Abdul Azeez , Negi Dandub Palzor , A P Senthil Kumar , A Kaini
Published: June 2022

Racial discrimination is a common phenomenon against the northeastern people of India on the mainland. They are prejudiced and othered mainly because of their very identity—mongoloid features—and by assuming their Chinese affiliations. The outbreak of COVID‐19 has exacerbated discrimination, violence, and othering across the globe. The case of northeasterners living in the mainland of India is not different either. Racial discrimination and the othering experienced by northeasterners have not yet been studied extensively, especially in the context of the pandemic. Against this backdrop, the present paper examines the othering experiences of northeasterners living in Delhi by analysing nineteen qualitative interviews. We also have attempted to unveil their experiences of being othered before the pandemic. The participants were recruited based on inclusion criteria. The findings of the paper underline othering as the everyday experience of northeasterners living in Delhi. The worst forms of othering and discrimination amid the COVID‐19 pandemic resulting in stigmatisation and bullying, insecurity and helplessness, and mental and emotional strains are evident in the participants' experiences. The instances of growing racism in India against northeasterners evidence the stereotypical attitude of the mainstream population towards them and urges legal measures to prevent it.
Infrared GRIN GeS2–Sb2S3–CsCl chalcogenide glass–ceramics
Authors: Li Chengkang , Liu Hongjun , Zhou Gangjie , Kang Shiliang , Tan Linling , Gao Chengwei , Lin Changgui
Published: June 2022

Chalcogenide glasses show a unique potential for creating gradient refractive index (GRIN) lenses, which would reduce the size and weight of infrared thermal imaging system and remain/improve its performance. Here, we propose a new method that forms a GRIN chalcogenide glass–ceramics (GCs) by creating low refractive index (n) CsCl nanocrystals within a high n GeS2–Sb2S3 glass matrix. After specific gradient thermal treatment, the GRIN structure of Δn ∼ 0.04 was formed through the gradient precipitation of CsCl. This work would pave a new path to design the GRIN chalcogenide GCs through a selective crystallization of halide crystals with low n.