bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new emu genome illuminates the evolution of genome configuration and nuclear architecture of avian chromosomes
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Zongji , Li Jing , Xu Luohao , Liu Jiaqi , Feng Shaohong , Guo Chunxue , Chen Shengchan , Ren Zhanjun , Rao Jinpeng , Wei Kai , Chen Yuezhou , Jarvis Erich D. , Zhang Guojie , Zhou Qi
Published: January 2021

Emu and other ratites are more informative than any other birds in reconstructing the evolution of the ancestral avian or vertebrate karyotype because of their much slower rate of genome evolution. Here, we generated a new chromosome-level genome assembly of a female emu, and estimated the tempo of chromosome evolution across major avian phylogenetic branches, by comparing it to chromosome-level genome assemblies of 11 other bird and one turtle species. We found ratites exhibited the lowest numbers of intra- and inter-chromosomal changes among birds since their divergence with turtles. The small-sized and gene-rich emu microchromosomes have frequent inter-chromosomal contacts that are associated with housekeeping genes, which appears to be driven by clustering their centromeres in the nuclear interior, away from the macrochromosomes in the nuclear periphery. Unlike nonratite birds, only less than one-third of the emu W Chromosome regions have lost homologous recombination and diverged between the sexes. The emu W is demarcated into a highly heterochromatic region (WS0) and another recently evolved region (WS1) with only moderate sequence divergence with the Z Chromosome. WS1 has expanded its inactive chromatin compartment, increased chromatin contacts within the region, and decreased contacts with the nearby regions, possibly influenced by the spreading of heterochromatin from WS0. These patterns suggest that alteration of chromatin conformation comprises an important early step of sex chromosome evolution. Overall, our results provide novel insights into the evolution of avian genome structure and sex chromosomes in three-dimensional space.
A predictive model for improving placement of wind turbines to minimise collision risk potential for a large soaring raptor
Authors: Murgatroyd Megan , Bouten Willem , Amar Arjun
Published: January 2021

With the rapid growth of wind energy developments world‐wide, it is critical that the negative impacts on wildlife are considered and mitigated. This includes minimising the number of large soaring raptors, which are killed when they collide with wind turbines.

To reduce the likelihood of raptor collisions, turbines should be placed at locations which are least used by sensitive species. For resident or breeding species, this is often delineated crudely through the use of circular buffers centred on nest sites, which assume uniform habitat use around a nest site.

Using GPS tracking data together with a digital elevation model we build and cross‐validate a simple generalisable model, to classify the spatial likelihood of wind turbine collisions for resident adult Verreaux's eagles in any landscape where there are known nests. We apply our methods to operational developments in South Africa to validate the model and demonstrate its ability in predicting actual collision mortalities.

Our collision risk potential (CRP) model included the variables distance to nest, distance to conspecific nest, slope, distance to slope and elevation. Using our model, rather than a circular buffer, resulted in c. 4%–5% improvement in eagle protection while excluding development from the same amount (but not shape) of area. For an equal level of eagle protection, our model can make c. 20%–21% more area available for wind energy development compared to a circular buffer.

Exploring collisions at operational wind farms in South Africa we show that our CRP model correctly predicted 79% of known collisions, while circular buffers (5.2 km radius) only captured 50% of collisions.

Synthesis and applications. We show that by using predictive models to account for habitat use instead of simple buffers around a nest, a greater area of land can be made available for wind energy development without increased mortality risk to raptors. Our predictive model can be used to provide robust guidance on wind turbine placement in South Africa in a way which minimises the conflict between a vulnerable raptor species and the development of renewable energy.
Enrichment and description of novel bacteria performing syntrophic propionate oxidation at high ammonia level
Authors: Singh Abhijeet , Schnürer Anna , Westerholm Maria
Published: January 2021

Inefficient syntrophic propionate degradation causes severe operating disturbances and reduces biogas productivity in many high‐ammonia anaerobic digesters, but propionate‐degrading microorganisms in these systems remain unknown. Here, we identified candidate ammonia‐tolerant syntrophic propionate‐oxidising bacteria using propionate enrichment at high ammonia levels (0.7–0.8 g NH3L−1) in continuously‐fed reactors. We reconstructed 30 high‐quality metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs) from the propionate‐fed reactors, which revealed two novel species from the families Peptococcaceae and Desulfobulbaceae as syntrophic propionate‐oxidising candidates. Both MAGs possess genomic potential for the propionate oxidation and electron transfer required for syntrophic energy conservation and, similar to ammonia‐tolerant acetate degrading syntrophs, both MAGs contain genes predicted to link to ammonia and pH tolerance. Based on relative abundance, a Peptococcaceae sp. appeared to be the main propionate degrader and has been given the provisional name “CandidatusSyntrophopropionicum ammoniitolerans”. This bacterium was also found in high‐ammonia biogas digesters, using quantitative PCR. Acetate was degraded by syntrophic acetate‐oxidising bacteria and the hydrogenotrophic methanogenic community consisted ofMethanoculleus bourgensisand a yet to be characterisedMethanoculleussp. This work provides knowledge of cooperating syntrophic species in high‐ammonia systems and reveals that ammonia‐tolerant syntrophic propionate‐degrading populations share common features, but diverge genomically and taxonomically from known species.
SPME GC‐MS monitoring of volatile organic compounds to assess typicity of Pecorino di Carmasciano ewe‐milk cheese
Authors: Cozzolino Rosaria , Martignetti Antonella , De Giulio Beatrice , Malorni Livia , Addeo Francesco , Picariello Gianluca
Published: January 2021

The sensory traits of Pecorino di Carmasciano (PdC), an artisanal ewe‐milk cheese produced in Irpinia (Southern Italy), are believed to arise from grazing grass growing on a soil rich in sulphurated compounds. Volatiles of nine PdC samples obtained by solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry have been compared to those of six common ewe‐milk cheese samples. Amongst 82 volatiles identified, no sulphur compound was detected in any PdC sample, excepting traces of dimethyl sulphone. Principal component analysis (PCA) did not distinguish PdC and commercial samples. Thus, the typicality of PdC should be attributed to a combination of biotic and abiotic factors.
Immune response during the onset of coliform mastitis in dairy cows vaccinated with STARTVAC®
Authors: Kawai Kazuhiro , Kondo Yasuha , Shinozuka Yasunori , Kawata Ryusaku , Kaneko Sohei , Iwano Hidetomo , Enokidani Masafumi , Watanabe Aiko , Yuliza‐Purba Fika , Isobe Naoki , Kurumisawa Tomomi
Published: January 2021

The immune response during the onset of coliform mastitis in vaccinated cows was investigated by measuring lactoferrin (LF), interleukin‐8(IL‐8), and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) concentrations and somatic cell counts in 28 milk samples at the onset of acute coliform mastitis (ACM) and 73 milk samples at the onset of peracute coliform mastitis (PCM). Vaccinated ACM, unvaccinated ACM, and vaccinated PCM showed significantly higher values for LF and IL‐1β levels than unvaccinated PCM (p < .01). The IL‐8 concentration was lower in vaccinated PCM than in unvaccinated PCM (p < .05). There was no significant difference in somatic cell counts for each parameter. There were no significant differences in the parameters between vaccinated and unvaccinated ACM cows, or vaccinated ACM and PCM cows. From the above results, it is suggested that mastitis vaccination improved the early immune response, particularly at the onset of PCM, and played a large role in host defense against the initial infection.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis–A challenging disease with new horizons and changing therapeutic landscape
Authors: Fahim Ahmed
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To discuss the pathophysiological hypotheses of IPF with a view to summarise the data on pharmacological aspects of treatment of this fibrotic Interstitial Lung Disease. Furthermore, the adverse effects are briefly discussed for the currently available and licenced anti‐fibrotic agents.

Data source

The data were obtained from the Randomised Controlled Trials and scientific studies published in English literature. The manuscript is kept brief to provide an overview of pathophysiological and pharmacological interplay involved in IPF and it was aimed not to be exhaustive so an update is provided on the aspect of pharmacotherapeutics for physicians involved in managing patients with IPF.

Results

Two pharmacological agents Pirfenidone and Nintedanib are discussed with the evidence backing up for the rationale of these drugs to slow the disease progression and potentially improve mortality in this disease with a dismal prognosis. The drugs are associated with adverse events and a careful consideration to balance the efficacy with quality of life of individual patient should be considered before commencing these medications. We are seeing real‐world data on the value of these anti‐fibrotic agents and there is further evidence of them to be efficacious in severe disease and even in the cohort with significant progression over 6–12 months period.

Conclusion

The landscape of IPF management has seen a paradigm shift in the last decade form anti‐inflammatory to anti‐fibrotic approach and with evidence of slowing disease progression. We are likely to improve IPF management in the near future with multi‐modality and personalised therapy.
Tertiary lymphoid structures with overlapping histopathologic features of cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma during neoadjuvant cemiplimab therapy are associated with antitumor response
Authors: Sweeney Keith J. , Tetzlaff Michael T. , Vega Francisco , Gillenwater Ann , Zuo Zhuang , Gross Neil , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Wargo Jennifer , Nelson Kelly , Prieto Victor G. , Torres‐Cabala Carlos A. , Curry Jonathan L.
Published: January 2021

The development of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy with anti‐CTLA‐4 and anti‐PD‐1/L1 monoclonal antibodies has led to a paradigm shift in cancer therapy. ICI neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery has become the standard of care for several advanced‐stage cancers. The pathology associated with ICI therapy is vast and includes neoadjuvant‐associated tissue reactions and activation of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) at the site of the tumor bed and off‐target immune‐related adverse events. TLSs are thought to recapitulate lymph node function and may act as localized immune machinery to mount an antitumor response. B‐cell activation in TLSs during neoadjuvant ICI therapy has been correlated with antitumor response. We report a patient with a history of sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma treated with neoadjuvant ICI cemiplimab who developed clonal expansion of B‐cells in the TLSs of the tumor bed. The TLSs morphologically mimicked a cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma with plasmacytic differentiation. Awareness of clonal expansion of B‐cells in TLSs during neoadjuvant ICI therapy is critical to recognize a response to ICI therapy and to avoiding an incorrect diagnosis of low‐grade B‐cell lymphoma.
New microsatellite markers for the population studies ofRacodium therryanum, a causal agent of snow blight in Japan
Authors: Iwakiri Ayuka , Sakaue Daisuke , Matsushita Norihisa , Fukuda Kenji
Published: January 2021

Snow mold fungi cause serious damage to the seedlings of some coniferous species in the boreal region where deep snow covers the seedlings in winter.Racodium therryanumis one of the fungi causing such damage in Japan. Neither sexual nor asexual spores ofR. therryanumhave been found in the field, and thus, the taxonomy and life cycle of this fungus is unclear. In this study, we developed seven microsatellite markers for population studies such as population structure, recombination and genetic diversity ofR. therryanumthrough de novo genome assembly. Seven microsatellite markers were developed and applied for 133R. therryanumisolates fromPicea glehnii,P. jezoensisandAbies sachalinensisin a nursery and two planted sites in forests (forest sites) situating 10–20 km apart. Little genetic differentiation between the two forest sites suggests that gene flow had occurred between the forest sites. The nursery population was characterized by low genetic diversity compared to the two forest sites. Discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) indicated three genetically differentiated clusters ofR. therryanumwhich occurred sympatrically in each site. No dominant clusters were observed in the three host species, and no genetic differentiation was observed among the host species. The observed not significant linkage disequilibrium suggested the genetic recombination ofR. therryanum. Microsatellite markers developed in this study can be useful for the further population studies ofR. therryanum.
Autopsy‐reported cause of death in a population‐based cohort of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
Authors: Keller Anne E. , Ho Jordan , Whitney Robyn , Li Shelly‐Anne , Williams Andrew S. , Pollanen Michael S. , Donner Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a diagnosis of exclusion; the definition includes individuals with epilepsy who die suddenly without an identifiable toxicological or anatomical cause of death. Limited data suggest underidentification of SUDEP as the cause of death on death certificates. Here, we evaluate the autopsy‐reported cause of death in a population‐based cohort of SUDEP cases.

Methods

Case summaries of forensic autopsies conducted in Ontario, Canada between January 2014 and June 2016 were retrospectively screened using a language processing script for decedents with a history of epilepsy or seizures. After manual review for potential SUDEP cases, two neurologists independently examined the autopsy reports and classified deaths by Nashef criteria. Demographic characteristics and consideration by the forensic pathologist of the role of epilepsy, seizure, and SUDEP in death were summarized.

Results

One hundred and eight Definite, 34 Definite Plus, and 22 Possible SUDEP cases were identified. Seventy‐five percent of Definite/Definite Plus SUDEP cases identified by the neurologists were attributed to SUDEP, epilepsy, or seizure disorder in the autopsy report. There was a significant association between the proportion of cases listed in the autopsy report as SUDEP, epilepsy, or seizure disorder and neurologists' SUDEP classification (86% of Definite, 38% of Definite Plus, 0% of Possible). Age was significantly associated with SUDEP classification; Definite cases were younger than Definite Plus, which were younger than Possible SUDEP cases.

Significance

Most SUDEP cases identified by neurologists were classified concordantly by forensic pathologists in Ontario, Canada; however, concordance decreased with increased case complexity. Although the role of epilepsy/seizures was considered in most Definite/Definite Plus cases, this study highlights the need for autopsy report review of potential SUDEP cases in research studies and assessments of the public health burden of SUDEP. The relationship between age and SUDEP classification has important public health implications; SUDEP incidence may be underappreciated in older adults.
Activation of ALDH1A1 by omeprazole reduces cell oxidative stress damage
Authors: Calleja Luis Francisco , Yoval‐Sánchez Belem , Hernández‐Esquivel Luz , Gallardo‐Pérez Juan Carlos , Sosa‐Garrocho Marcela , Marín‐Hernández Álvaro , Jasso‐Chávez Ricardo , Macías‐Silva Marina , Salud Rodríguez‐Zavala José
Published: January 2021

Under physiological conditions, cells produce low basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS); however, in pathologic conditions ROS production increases dramatically, generating high concentrations of toxic unsaturated aldehydes. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) are responsible for detoxification of these aldehydes protecting the cell. Due to the physiological relevance of these enzymes, it is important to design strategies to modulate their activity. It was previously reported that omeprazole activation of ALDH1A1 protected Escherichia coli cells overexpressing this enzyme, from oxidative stress generated by H2O2. In this work, omeprazole cell protection potential was evaluated in eukaryotic cells. AS‐30D cell or hepatocyte suspensions were subjected to a treatment with omeprazole and exposure to light (that is required to activate omeprazole in the active site of ALDH) and then exposed to H2O2. Cells showed viability similar to control cells, total activity of ALDH was preserved, while cell levels of lipid aldehydes and oxidative stress markers were maintained low. Cell protection by omeprazole was avoided by inhibition of ALDHs with disulfiram, revealing the key role of these enzymes in the protection. Additionally, omeprazole also preserved ALDH2 (mitochondrial isoform) activity, diminishing lipid aldehyde levels and oxidative stress in this organelle, protecting mitochondrial respiration and transmembrane potential formation capacity, from the stress generated by H2O2. These results highlight the important role of ALDHs as part of the antioxidant system of the cell, since if the activity of these enzymes decreases under stress conditions, the viability of the cell is compromised.
Feasibility of a single‐species quota system for management of the Malaysian multispecies purse‐seine fishery
Authors: Harlyan Ledhyane Ika , Matsuishi Takashi Fritz , Md Saleh Mohammad Faisal
Published: January 2021

Malaysian fisheries employ multiple measures to improve management; however, not all are well‐suited to the multispecies fisheries. As part of a pilot project, an individual quota system was introduced for the purse‐seine fishery off the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (ECPM), but no assessment of this particular measure nor the feasibly of its implementation has been confirmed. Therefore, this study analysed spatial and temporal patterns of purse‐seine fishing, by collecting catch composition data per landing and its fishing ground within three period fishery surveys between August 2017 and September 2018 at six different landing sites. Similarity and cluster analysis examined species composition and diversity to determine the feasibility of implementing a single‐species quota system in this multispecies fishery. Some overlapped of indices results and minor difference in catch composition were found due to changes in spatial and temporal fishing activities. However, no specific spatial or temporal patterns were discernible as structuring the fishing grounds used by purse‐seiners. The absence of patterns, using the available data, might be attributable to huge species aggregations and widely distributed and homogenously mixed fish stocks. Thus, it is likely impractical to manage species individually in such a multispecies fishery.
An American lineage of Helicobacter pylori prophages found in Colombia
Authors: Muñoz Angela B , Trespalacios‐Rangel Alba A , Vale Filipa F
Published: January 2021

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a human gastric carcinogen that is highly prevalent in Latin American. The prophages of H. pylori show a structured population and contribute to the diversity of this bacterium. However, H. pylori prophages present in American strains have not been described to date. In this study, we identified, characterized, and present the phylogenetic analysis of the prophages present in Colombian H. pylori strains.

Methods

To characterize Colombian H. pylori strains and their prophages, a Multilocus Sequences Typing (MLST) and a Prophage Sequences Typing (PST), using the integrase and holin genes, were performed. Furthermore, five Colombian H. pylori had their full genome sequenced, and six Colombian H.pylori retrieved from databases, allowing to determine the prophage complete genome and insertion site.

Results

The integrase gene frequency was 12.6% (27/213), while both integrase and holin genes were present in 4.2% (9/213) of the samples analyzed. The PST analysis showed that Colombian prophages belong to different populations, including hpSWEurope, hpNEurope, hpAfrica1, and a new population, named hpColombia. The MLST analysis classified most of the Colombia strains in the hpEurope population.

Conclusions

The new H. pylori prophage population revealed that Colombian prophages follow a unique evolutionary trajectory, contributing to bacterial diversity. The global H. pylori prophage phylogeny highlighted five phylogenetic groups, one more than previously reported. After the arrival of Europeans, the Colombian H. pylori bacteria and their prophages formed an independent evolutionary line to adapt to the new environment and new human hosts.
Age‐related differences in responses to hydrogen sulfide in the bladder of spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Zou Suo , Shimizu Takahiro , Yamamoto Masaki , Shimizu Shogo , Higashi Youichirou , Karashima Takashi , Saito Motoaki
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To investigate whether a response to hydrogen sulfide donors (GYY4137 and sodium hydrosulfide) and the endogenous hydrogen sulfide system (hydrogen sulfide level and expression of cysteine aminotransferase, cystathionine β‐synthase, cystathionine γ‐lyase, and 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase) in the spontaneously hypertensive rat bladder differ with age, we compared the responses of hydrogen sulfide donors to micturition and bladder relaxation, and the endogenous hydrogen sulfide system in the bladder of 18‐week versus 12‐week‐old spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Methods

GYY4137 was intravesically administered and cystometry was performed in anesthetized rats. The responses of sodium hydrosulfide were evaluated in carbachol‐mediated precontracted bladder strips. Bladder hydrogen sulfide levels and expression levels of each enzyme were investigated using the methylene blue method and Western blotting, respectively.

Results

GYY4137 treatment significantly prolonged intercontraction intervals only in 12‐week‐old rats. Sodium hydrosulfide‐induced bladder relaxation was significantly attenuated in the strips of 18‐week‐old rats compared with that in 12‐week‐old rats. In the bladder dome, significant increases in hydrogen sulfide levels and in the expression of cystathionine β‐synthase, 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase, and cysteine aminotransferase were observed in 18‐week‐old rats compared with 12‐week‐old rats. However, cystathionine γ‐lyase bands were not detected in bladder tissues of either group.

Conclusions

Bladder relaxation induced by hydrogen sulfide may be attenuated in spontaneously hypertensive rats in an age‐dependent manner.
A clustering‐based review on project portfolio optimization methods
Authors: Saiz Miguel , Lostumbo Marisa A. , Juan Angel A. , Lopez‐Lopez David
Published: January 2021

Project portfolio management and optimization constitutes a critical activity for organizations in different industrial sectors and business. The scientific literature in this subject is extremely vast, which makes it difficult to understand the connections among the existing approaches and perspectives. This paper provides a clustering map of the existing work on the subject, thus identifying the main trends and approaches from different scientific communities. After analyzing each of the identified clusters, the paper provides insights and emerging trends that can be useful both for researchers and practitioners in the area.
Preventive effect of aspirin on preeclampsia in high‐risk pregnant women with stage 1 hypertension
Authors: Huai Jing , Lin Li , Juan Juan , Chen Jiahui , Li Boya , Zhu Yuchun , Yu Mengting , Yang Huixia
Published: January 2021

Studies reported that women in a low‐risk cohort with stage 1 hypertension defined as 130–139 mmHg/80–89 mmHg, according to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association, are more likely to develop into preeclampsia than women with normotensive in the early gestation. In this study, the authors investigated whether preeclampsia was more likely to occur in stage 1 hypertensive women compared to the normotensive pregnant women in a high‐risk cohort, which was based on the randomized controlled trial of "Low‐dose Aspirin in the Prevention of Preeclampsia in China." Meanwhile, the authors further evaluated the preventive effect of aspirin for preeclampsia in stage 1 hypertension subset. In women enrolled at or before 16 weeks of gestation, in the control group, the preeclampsia occurrence was significantly higher in stage 1 hypertensive woman than in the normotensive women (20.4% vs. 6.2%, aOR 3.960, 95% CI 1.299–12.074, p = .016), while no difference was observed in the aspirin group (4.5% vs. 4.2%, aOR 0.921, 95% CI 0.140–6.070, p = .932). In stage 1 hypertension, the incidences of preeclampsia and preterm birth were significantly lower in the aspirin group as compared to the control group (4.5% vs. 20.4%, aOR 0.139, 95% CI 0.027–0.716, p = .018; 4.5% vs. 18.4%, aOR 0.141, 95% CI 0.025–0.782, p = .025). Compared with the control group, the aspirin group displayed significantly prolonged gestational age at delivery (38.6 ± 1.2 vs. 37.4 ± 3.4, p = .042). This study indicates that the newly classified stage 1 hypertension might be an additional risk factor for preeclampsia in Chinese high‐risk pregnant women, and aspirin intervention might be useful.
Comparative effects of topiroxostat and febuxostat on arterial properties in hypertensive patients with hyperuricemia
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Nishizawa Masafumi , Kiuchi Mari , Kiyosue Arihiro , Tomita Fumishi , Ohtani Hiroshi , Abe Yasuhisa , Kuga Hideyo , Miyazaki Satoshi , Kasai Takatoshi , Hongou Makiko , Yasu Takanori , Kuramochi Jin , Fukumoto Yoshihiro , Hoshide Satoshi , Hisatome Ichiro
Published: January 2021

Elevated serum uric acid is a cardiovascular risk factor in patients with hypertension, even when blood pressure (BP) is well controlled. Xanthine oxidoreductase inhibitors (XORi) reduce serum uric acid levels and have several other potential effects. This multicenter, randomized, open‐label study compared the effects of two XORi, topiroxostat and febuxostat, on arterial stiffness, uric acid levels, and BP in hypertensive patients with hyperuricemia. Patients received topiroxostat 40–160 mg/day or febuxostat 10–60 mg/day, titrated to maintain serum uric acid <6 mg/dl, for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was change in the cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI) from baseline to 24 weeks. There were no significant changes in CAVI from baseline to 24 weeks (from 9.13 to 9.16 [feboxustat] and 8.98 to 9.01 [topiroxostat]). Compared with baseline, there were significant reductions in serum uric acid (–2.9 and –2.5 mg/dl; both p < 0.001) and morning home systolic BP (–3.6 and –5.1 mm Hg; both p < 0.01) after 24 weeks' treatment with febuxostat and topiroxostat. BP decreased to the greatest extent in the subgroup of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure at baseline. Topiroxostat, but not febuxostat, significantly decreased plasma xanthine oxidoreductase activity versus baseline. The urinary albumin‐creatinine ratio (UACR) decreased significantly from baseline to 24 weeks with topiroxostat (–20.8%; p = 0.021), but not febuxostat (–8.8%; p = 0.362). In conclusion, neither topiroxostat nor febuxostat had any significant effects on arterial stiffness over 24 weeks' treatment.
Expression and prognostic characteristics of m5C regulators in low‐grade glioma
Authors: Li Xiaozhi , Meng Yutong
Published: January 2021

Glioma is the most common intracranial malignant tumour. A clear diagnosis and molecular targeted therapy are of great significance for improving the survival time and quality of life of patients with low‐grade glioma. 5‐methylcytosine methylation is one of the ways of RNA modification, but there are limited studies on the role of m5C methylation of low‐grade glioma. Single‐nucleotide variant, RNA expression matrix and corresponding clinical data of low‐grade glioma came from public database. The single‐nucleotide variant and expression of m5C regulators were estimated. A prognostic model based on m5C regulators was constructed by Cox regression. Potential functions of these molecules were assessed by gene set enrichment analysis. DNMT3A mutation was the most frequent among the m5C regulators in low‐grade glioma. NSUN3, TET2, TRDMT1, ALYREF, DNMT3B, DNMT1, NOP2 and NSUN2 were up‐regulated. One prognostic model was constructed which had a strong predictive power for the overall survival of low‐grade glioma. We studied the expression and prognostic characteristics of m5C regulators in low‐grade glioma, supplied biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis and provided the foundation for the study of the pathogenesis of low‐grade glioma.
Prison as Home: Characteristics of Control within General Prison and Solitary Confinement Environments
Authors: Galford Gregory
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore stakeholder’ perspectives of control within general correctional and solitary confinement environments with findings focused on trust, sound, views to nature, routine, and time. Research was conducted at two medium security prisons in a large US state with male inmates. Using a survey methodology, interviews occurred with 10 inmates, 10 correctional officers, two superintendents, one staff psychologist, one nurse, and two correctional design architects. Observations and photography followed while visiting and leaving the prisons. Using grounded theory as a data analysis tool identified the themes of trust, views to nature, sound, time, and routine viewed through the overarching premise of control. Incongruence between rehabilitation and punitive environmental goals were found. Correctional officers who emphasized fear and trust valued visual surveillance despite its ability to lead to austere indoor and outdoor spaces. Inmates craved outdoor views along with personal possessions as these items established a more meaningful passage of time. Sound, as noted by the correctional architects, was not designed as a rehabilitative tool, but instead was used to denote impending attacks. And routine, so valued by inmates, was often taken away as a form of control. Implications suggest that the US prisons observed in this study exemplified control, dominance, and punishment. Future prison design should embrace the rehabilitative and healing strategies used in European models to help lower rates of recidivism which are problematic in the American prison system.
Effects and interaction of dietary electrolyte balance and citric acid on growth performance, intestinal histomorphology, digestive enzyme activity and nutrient transporters expression of weaned piglets
Authors: Deng Qingqing , Shao Yirui , Wang Qiye , Li Jianzhong , Li Yali , Ding Xueqin , Huang Pengfei , Yin Jia , Yang Huansheng , Yin Yulong
Published: January 2021

Fifty‐six piglets were weaned at 21 days and randomly assigned to 1 of 8 dietary treatments with 7 replicate pens for a 14‐day experimental period. The eight experimental diets were prepared via a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with citric acid (CA; 0 and 0.3%) and dietary electrolyte balance (dEB, Na +K − Cl mEq/kg of the diet; −50, 100, 250, and 400 mEq/kg). Varying dEB values were obtained by altering calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate contents. Dietary CA significantly increased (p < .05) villus height (VH) and villus height:crypt depth (VH:CD) in the jejunum. Piglets fed a 250 mEq/kg diet increased (p < .05) VH and VH:CD values in the duodenum. Jejunal VH and VH:CD increased (quadratic; p < .05), and ileal VH:CD (liner and quadratic; p < .05) decreased as dEB was increased in diets without CA, but no such effect was observed on the diets containing CA (dEB ×CA; p < .05). The CD in jejunum (quadratic; p < .05) increased as dEB was increased in diets containing CA, whereas it was decreased (linear; p < .05) in the diets without CA (dEB ×CA; p < .001). Dietary CA increased maltase activity and reduced the number of Ki67‐positive cells (p < .05). Increasing dEB values in diets without CA increased sucrose and lactase activities (quadratic; p < .05), but no such effect was observed in the diets with CA (dEB ×CA; p < .05). An interaction effect between dEB and CA on the number of Ki67‐positive cells was observed (p < .001). In conclusion, 250 mEq/kg dEB diet with CA improved piglet intestinal digestion and absorption function by improving intestinal morphology and increasing digestive enzyme activities. However, these improvements were also observed in piglets fed the 100 mEq/kg dEB diet without CA.
Assessment of the clinical usefulness of ultrasound‐guided cytological specimens obtained from gastrointestinal lesions in dogs and cats
Authors: Turner R. B. S. , Liffman R. , Woodward A. P. , Beck C. , Courtman N. , Dandrieux J. R. S.
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Cytological biopsies are an integral additional test to an abdominal ultrasound when a lesion is identified, but there is little published on factors that that may impact achieving a clinically useful sample of gastrointestinal lesions obtained by ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle cytologic biopsy. This retrospective, descriptive study aimed to assess factors that may influence the clinical usefulness of submitted cytological samples collected from gastrointestinal lesions by ultrasound‐guided percutaneous fine‐needle cytologic biopsy.

Material and Methods

Gastrointestinal cytological samples obtained from 25 dogs and 19 cats over 2.5 years were reviewed and determined as clinically useful or clinically useless as per the cytology report. Variables dependent on the ultrasound exam that were used in the analysis included lesion location, lesion thickness, loss of gastrointestinal layering, and the number of slides submitted.

Results

Thirty (30/44) of the submitted cytological samples were considered clinically useful. Factors associated with achieving a clinically useful sample in univariable models included the number of slides submitted and the thickness of the lesion. However, these two variables appear inter‐related, as a weak correlation existed between them. Where histologic biopsies were obtained, a clinically useful sample had a partial or complete agreement with histology in three of 12 and eight of 12 cases, respectively.

Clinical Significance

Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle cytological biopsies of gastrointestinal masses provided a clinically useful sample in two‐third of the cases, especially if more slides were provided to the cytologist and thicker lesions were sampled.
Intensive care nurse staffing and nurse outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Bae Sung‐Heui
Published: January 2021

Background

Intensive care units (ICU) are associated with significant work stress and exert continuous physical and emotional demand upon health care providers. The health and well‐being of care providers, including ICU nurses, is a matter of great concern. However, to the researcher's knowledge, there have been no reviews synthesizing the evidence about the relationship between nurse staffing and nurse outcomes in the ICU.

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to examine nurse staffing in the ICU and synthesize literature to examine the relationship with nurse outcomes such as job satisfaction, burnout, fatigue, and intent to leave.

Methods

This review was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Peer‐reviewed articles published between January 2000 and September 2019 were identified via eight electronic bibliographic databases. Articles were included and reviewed if they were correlational studies examining the relationships between nurse staffing and nurse outcomes in the ICU, and were published in peer‐reviewed journals written in either English or Korean. The Quality Assessment and Validity Tool for Correlation Studies was used for quality appraisal.

Results

From 5086 articles, eight published between 2006 and 2019 were included in this review. Three studies found expected relationships between worse nurse staffing and adverse nurse outcomes (high burnout, fatigue state, emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and stress). However, the relationships between nurse staffing and other adverse nurse outcomes were not significant. Perceived adequate staffing was negatively related to adverse nurse outcomes. However, a non‐significant relationship also was found.

Conclusion

This study found limited evidence on relationships between nurse staffing and nurse outcomes in the ICU. More studies are needed to conduct to find a conclusive relationship.

Relevance to clinical practice

Given high demands and workload in the ICU, nurse staffing levels should be closely monitored to prevent adverse nurse outcomes.
Barriers and facilitators to a healthy lifestyle in postpartum women: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies in postpartum women and healthcare providers
Authors: Makama Maureen , Awoke Mamaru Ayenew , Skouteris Helen , Moran Lisa J. , Lim Siew
Published: January 2021

A healthy postpartum lifestyle is vital for the promotion of optimal maternal health, return to pre‐pregnancy weight and prevention of postpartum weight retention, but barriers exist. We performed a systematic review that aimed to describe the barriers and facilitators to a healthy lifestyle in the first 2 years postpartum from the perspectives of women and healthcare providers. Databases were searched for eligible studies published up to 26 August 2019. Following thematic analysis, identified themes were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour model. We included 28 qualitative and quantitative studies after screening 15,643 citations and 246 full texts. We identified barriers and facilitators relating to capability (e.g., lack of knowledge regarding benefits of lifestyle behaviours; limitations in healthcare providers' skills in providing lifestyle support), opportunity (e.g., social support from partners, family, friends and healthcare providers; childcare needs) and motivation (e.g., identifying benefits of exercise and perception of personal health; enjoyment of the activity or food). We suggest intervention components to include in lifestyle interventions for postpartum women based on the identified themes. Our findings provide evidence to inform the development of interventions to support postpartum women in adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Continuous renal replacement therapy without anticoagulation in critically ill patients at high risk of bleeding: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Bai Ming , Yu Yan , Chen Xiaolan , Zhao Lijuan , Chen Xiangmei
Published: January 2021

The current clinical guideline recommends continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) proceed without anticoagulation in patients with contraindication to citrate and increased bleeding risk. Nevertheless, the efficacy of anticoagulation‐free CRRT remains inconsistent. The purpose of our present systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of anticoagulant‐free CRRT based on the current literatures. The primary outcomes were filter lifespan and risk factors for filter failure. Seventeen observational studies and three randomized controlled trials were included in our present meta‐analysis. There was no significant difference in filter lifespan and azotemic control between the anticoagulation‐free and systemic heparin group. The regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) protocol seems to be superior to the anticoagulation‐free protocol in terms of filter lifespan (WMD −23.01, 95% CI [−28.62, −17.39], p < 0.001; I2 = 0%, p = 0.53) and azotemic control. Nafamostat protocol could significantly prolong filter lifespan (WMD −8.4, 95% CI [−9.9, −6.9], p < 0.001; I2 = 33.7%, p = 0.21) as compared with anticoagulation‐free protocol without better azotemic control. The conventional coagulation parameters showed poor predictive performence for filter failure and the necessity of anticoagulants use before CRRT. Currently, the optimal choice of anticoagulation strategy for critically ill patients with increased bleeding risk could be RCA under close monitoring.
Are All Foragers the Same? Towards a Classification of Foragers
Authors: Grivins Mikelis
Published: January 2021

Some estimates suggest that almost a quarter of European households have members that forage, that is, pick wild products. Thus, foraging remains an important way for people to engage with their surrounding environment. Foraging has been associated both with the potential negative impacts it may have and with the potential positive effects it may bring. This article engages with the diversity of foragers and outlines the characteristics of their groups, consequently illustrating the potential and threats associated with various forager groups. It suggests that a targeted political engagement with these groups can help to address several pressing environmental, economic and social issues. The article employs two theoretical dimensions: motivation and knowledge to define two exclusive binary delimitating variables––the type of motivation and adapted knowledge frames. The variables are used to identify four subgroups of foragers: rooted foragers, lifestyle foragers, subsistence foragers and commercial foragers. The article relies on 30 in‐depth interviews conducted in Latvia to illustrate the characteristics of these groups.
A scoping review on the use, processing and fusion of geographic data in virtual assistants
Authors: Granell Carlos , Pesántez‐Cabrera Paola G. , Vilches‐Blázquez Luis M. , Achig Rosario , Luaces Miguel R. , Cortiñas‐Álvarez Alejandro , Chayle Carolina , Morocho Villie
Published: January 2021

Virtual assistants are a growing area of research in academia and industry, with an impact on people’s daily lives. Many disciplines in science are moving towards the incorporation of intelligent virtual assistants in multiple scenarios and application domains, and GIScience is not external to this trend since they may be connected to intelligent spatial decision support systems. This article presents a scoping review to indicate relevant literature pertinent to intelligent virtual assistants and their usage of geospatial information and technologies. In particular, the study was designed to find critical aspects of GIScience and how to contribute to the development of virtual assistants. Moreover, this work explores the most prominent research lines as well as relevant technologies/platforms to determine the main challenges and current limitations regarding the use and implementation of virtual assistants in geospatial‐related fields. As a result, this review shows the current state of geospatial applications regarding the use of intelligent virtual assistants, as well as revealing gaps and limitations in the use of spatial methods, standards, and resources available in spatial data infrastructures to develop intelligent decision systems based on virtual assistants for a wide array of application domains.
Red cell genotyping of rare blood donors: donation behaviour and data visualization
Authors: Anani Waseem Q. , Gottschall Jerome , Denomme Gregory A.
Published: January 2021

Background

The continual identification of rare blood among donors is critical to support national programs like the American Rare Donor Program (ARDP). Some blood centres require consent from donors to be registered with a national registry. This situation provides an opportunity to determine whether a donor’s willingness to register is associated with a change in donation behaviour.

Methods

Rare donors were identified by molecular typing. The average number of donations per year was compared for each donor prior to and after receiving a consent letter. Donors were categorized as either accepting or declining the request. Non‐parametric t tests compared the statistical significance within and between categories. Rare types were overlaid with consensus data to look for trends using data visualization techniques.

Results

A total of 270 molecularly typed rare donors received letters over 4 years. Half of the donors (132, 49%) agreed to participate in the ARDP. Overall, donation frequency increased after the letter when enrolled. Both Caucasian and non‐Caucasian donors increased their donations after enrolling providing an additional 159 red blood cell units over 3 years. Declining participation did not change donation frequency. Data visualization showed that enrolled donors were more affluent, high school and college educated, and lived in their home for longer periods of time.

Conclusion

A donor’s willingness to enrol in the ARDP was associated with a post‐response increase in donation frequency. New interventions to reach non‐Caucasian donors may be a prerequisite to increase donation frequency and a willingness to be a rare blood donor.
The response of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) to salinity and drought stresses and life table parameters of Tetranychus urticae Koch reared on it

Authors: Khodayari Samira , Nematollahi Narmila , Abedini Fatemeh , Rasouli Farzad
Published: January 2021

Plants in nature are constantly exposed to various stresses resulting from fluctuating environmental conditions which adversely affect their growth and development and may affect the performance of herbivores feeding on them. Drought and salinity are the most serious problems of agriculture due to climatic changes. According to global warming and drying of Urmia salty lake in Northwestern Iran which could result in salinization of agricultural lands nearby, the focus of this study was to examine the effect of two above mentioned stresses on a host plant and its pest population. Three levels of salinity (50 (low), 100 (intermediate) and 150 (high) mM NaCl) and water deficit (40–50% the amount of water given to control plants) were induced to common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) as stress factors and the following characteristics were measured: fresh and dry weight, leaf area, chlorophyll, carotenoid, proline and protein contents and CAT, APX and GPX enzyme activities. The life table parameters of two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, reared on stress-induced plants were measured and compared with control. The high saline condition caused plant defoliation and was deleted from results. The low saline condition caused an increase in fresh weight and decrease in chlorophyll and protein contents of plant. Intermediate saline condition caused an increase in APX and CAT enzyme activities and decrease of dry weight, chlorophyll, protein and proline contents. Drought condition caused an increase of APX and GPX enzyme activities and proline content and decrease of dry weight and chlorophyll content. Analysis of life table data of T. urticae showed a significant decrease of net reproductive rate (R0), mean generation time (T) and gross reproductive rate (GRR) of mites reared on plants under both of stresses. The intrinsic rate of increase (r) and finite rate of increase (λ) decreased significantly only for mites reared on plants under intermediate saline condition.
The gill-oxygen limitation theory (GOLT) and its critics
Authors: Pauly Daniel
Published: January 2021

The gill-oxygen limitation theory (GOLT) explains many previously unexplained aspects of the life history of fish.
Partisan pandemic: How partisanship and public health concerns affect individuals’ social mobility during COVID-19
Authors: Clinton J. , Cohen J. , Lapinski J. , Trussler M.
Published: January 2021

Partisanship affects efforts to limit social mobility.