bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Participatory design and qualitative evaluation of a decision guide for workplace human immunodeficiency virus self‐disclosure: The importance of a socio‐ecological perspective
Authors: Restall Gayle , Diaz Francis , Faucher Patrick , Roger Kerstin
Published: May 2021

Background

Disclosure of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive status in a workplace can be a complex social decision for a person living with HIV.

Objective

To design a Decision Guide to support people living with HIV in assessing contexts, risks and benefits of workplace disclosure in choosing whether or not, or to what extent, to disclose. In this report, we review the participatory design of a Decision Guide prototype and focus on its evaluation.

Methods

We began with stakeholder input through an environmental scan and community consultation that informed the development of an online Decision Guide prototype. To evaluate the comprehensiveness, acceptability and usability of the prototype, we used qualitative methodology involving individual interviews and the think‐aloud technique. Interviews were transcribed and analysed qualitatively.

Results

Fourteen people, including people living with HIV and service providers, participated. We identified benefits of the Decision Guide related to comprehensiveness, acceptability and usability. Additional interview themes focused on disclosure concerns, mitigating risks associated with disclosure and additional considerations for the Decision Guide.

Conclusions

The Decision Guide was perceived to be acceptable, comprehensive and useful. The findings endorse the application of a socio‐ecological perspective when designing decision support aids for complex social decisions.

Patient or public contribution

People with lived experience of HIV were involved in the prototype design phases as research team members. They, along with community leaders and service providers, also participated in a community forum and were key informants for the evaluation of the Workplace Disclosure Decision Guide prototype.
A global synthesis of the impacts of urbanization on bird dawn choruses
Authors: Marín‐Gómez Oscar H. , MacGregor‐Fors Ian
Published: May 2021

Urbanization drives changes in acoustic communication systems in some animal species. Noise and light pollution are among the main urban factors known to disrupt the timing and structure of avian singing behaviour. Despite our understanding of the ways in which urbanization can drive variations in avian acoustic communication, our ability to generalize the underlying causes of such variation and its consequences is still limited. Here, we reviewed the literature focused on the study of avian dawn choruses in urban settings at a global scale. Our findings reveal that avian dawn chorus research has focused on the impact of anthropogenic noise on dawn chorus traits (i.e. timing, peak, song output, song frequencies); relationships between light pollution and chorus timing; the effects of temperature, cloudiness, moonlight and natural light on chorus timing; relationships between nocturnal noise and light, and dawn chorus timing; the effects of chemical pollution and supplementary feeding on dawn chorus activity; and ecological patterns of dawn choruses in soundscapes across urban–non‐urban gradients. We identified important knowledge gaps in the study of avian dawn choruses in urban settings and thus suggest future research directions, including frameworks (e.g. the urbanization intensity gradient) and consideration of a wider array of urban conditions and variables. Given the complexity of urban settings, we encourage further studies to address the role that all sources of pollution can have on avian acoustic communication at dawn. Additionally, a central question to resolve is whether the function of avian dawn choruses in urban areas differs, and if so how, from non‐urban counterparts. Given that most research has been performed across Holarctic cities and towns, studies from tropical and subtropical regions are needed if we aim to understand the phenomenon globally. Finally, studies at the community‐ and soundscape‐level across cities could advance understanding of the way in which urban birds use the acoustic space during the most critical singing time period, dawn.
Allopreening in the Black‐browed Albatross (Thalassarchemelanophris): an exploration of patterns and possible functions
Authors: Gillies Natasha , Guilford Tim , Catry Paulo
Published: May 2021

The functions of display between breeding pairs of animals have been given little attention outside of sexual selection. Yet evidence suggests that display between partners is in fact most commonly observed following mate choice, and is often just as elaborate. In many bird species, allopreening, when one member of a pair preens the other, is a major component of display both pre‐ and post‐pair formation. Despite this, there has been little investigation into its functions. Explanations that have been put forward tend to focus on its role in feather hygiene, which has limited phylogenetic support, or its function in the maintenance of the pair bond, though how this might occur or indeed what this actually represents has not been adequately explained. Phylogenetic evidence reveals that allopreening is most commonly observed in those species exhibiting high levels of partner retention and biparental care, and it appears to be functional in maintaining cooperation in parental behaviour in at least one species. In our observational study, we explored the patterns and putative functions of allopreening during the nest‐relief displays of breeding pairs of Black‐browed AlbatrossesThalassarche melanophrisduring incubation and chick‐provisioning. Allopreening was an important feature of displays, constituting 30% of display time. We found that the bird returning from its foraging trip usually initiated allopreening, and preened more than its partner prior to change‐over of nesting duties. We further found a positive relationship between the amount of time the pair spent in display and the duration of the subsequent foraging trip, providing tentative support for a function in maintaining cooperative parental behaviour between the parents. Although we cannot be conclusive as to its exact functions, we add to a limited literature the first exploration of functions for this conspicuous behaviour in albatrosses.
Errors as indicators of writing task difficulty at the Slovene general matura in English
Authors: Dobrić Nikola , Sigott Günther , Ilc Gašper , Lazović Vesna , Cesnik Hermann , Stopar Andrej
Published: May 2021

Task difficulty is an important but complex phenomenon in Applied Linguistics, for which there is relatively little empirical research. This article discusses approaches to defining task difficulty and focuses on objective task difficulty derived from ratings of performances and on difficulty derived from an error count in the performances, thus taking errors as indicators of writing task difficulty. Errors are described in terms of the Scope–Substance error taxonomy in writing performances from the Slovene General Matura examination in English. The most frequent errors are located at word and phrase level. Generally, error frequency decreases as writing proficiency increases, but some error types do not conform to this trend. This is the case for punctuation errors, which gain prominence at higher levels of mastery. The results of this study are relevant for assessment, particularly for rating scale development or revision, and for rater training. They are equally relevant for teaching, since knowing sources of difficulty in tasks is a prerequisite for effective pedagogical action. More generally, if applied to performances based on a wider range of tasks, viewing errors as indicators of difficulty can lead to a better understanding of difficulty‐generating task features.
Hope, fear, and consumer behavioral change amid COVID‐19: Application of protection motivation theory
Authors: Kim Jiyoung , Yang Kiseol , Min Jihye , White Brechey
Published: May 2021

Using protection motivation theory (PMT), this study investigates the influence of cognitive assessment and affective response on customers’ behavioral intention amid COVID‐19 in the context of restaurants. More specifically, this research draws attention to (1) the influence of protection motivation (i.e., perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, maladaptive reward, response efficacy, self‐efficacy, response cost) on hope and fear, (2) hope and fear as mediators between protection motivation and behavioral intention, and (3) diverse customer behavioral intentions that have emerged during the COVID‐19 pandemic (i.e., health‐focused behavior, conscious consumption, and the supporting of local businesses and products). A total of 473 completed responses were obtained through an online survey. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships. The research model proposed in the study successfully explained the process in which individuals commit to hygienic behaviors, prioritize local restaurants, and engage in conscious consumption under the threat of COVID‐19. The proposed model can be utilized in examining consumer behaviors in the hospitality industry, especially in the COVID‐19 era.
Metabolic and microbial modulation of phenolic compounds from raspberry leaf extract under in vitro digestion and fermentation
Authors: Yang Jing , Hao Yuxin , Li Nana , Wang Chunyu , Liu Yongping
Published: May 2021

Raspberry leaves, by‐products in raspberry production, are also a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals. In this study, the changes of phenolic compounds in raspberries leaf extract (RLE) under in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation were further studied by HPLC‐MS analysis and 16S rRNA. The results showed that the phenolic compounds in RLE were relatively stable during in vitro gastric digestion; however, in the subsequent intestinal digestion and colonic fermentation, their content decreased sharply. A large amount of hydroxyphenylpropionic acid, hydroxyphenylacetic acid and urolithins were produced under the action of gut microbiota. Moreover, compared with corresponding control, RLE significantly reduced the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes in all volunteers, increased the relative abundances of some beneficial bacteria, Enterococcus, Prevotella, and decreased the relative abundances of potential pathogens, Clostridium and Faecalibacterium. These findings suggest that RLE during in vitro digestion and fermentation has positive effects on gut microbiota and potential value of maintaining intestinal health.
‘You've Been Framed’: A critical review of academic discourse on philanthrocapitalism
Authors: Haydon Steph , Jung Tobias , Russell Shona
Published: May 2021

Philanthrocapitalism—the strategic application of market methods and motives for philanthropic purposes—plays increasingly prominent roles in policy design and implementation at national and international levels. Notwithstanding philanthrocapitalism's growing significance, relevant scholarly discourse remains limited and fragmented. Drawing together diverse debates, our paper systematically reviews and synthesizes academic literature on philanthrocapitalism. Alongside raising questions about the casting and practice of philanthropy, the 186 relevant publications included in our review indicate a strong emphasis of philanthrocapitalism in the areas of education, international development, healthcare and agriculture. Across these, we identify and discuss the importance of three cultural frames: (1) development challenges being framed as scientific problems; (2) beneficiaries being framed as productive entrepreneurs; and (3) philanthropy being framed as social investment. Outlining and critically examining these issues, this work contributes: a comprehensive analysis of key debates and issues; strengthened conceptual clarity and nuance through an evaluative exploration of the multiple interpretations of philanthrocapitalism; and a future research agenda to address persisting knowledge gaps and refine focus.
The Doctrine of Divine Simplicity in T.F. Torrance’s Theology
Authors: Lee Sang Hoon
Published: May 2021

This article examines whether T.F. Torrance’s theology can uphold the doctrine of divine simplicity, in a manner consistent with his accounts of the ascension of Jesus, God’s eternity and divine im/passibility. This article indicates that Torrance’s doctrine of simplicity does not fully accord with the traditional one that does not allow for any form of introduction of composites and any historical contingencies into the Being of God. On Torrance’s account, God embraces created temporality and carnality into his eternal Being through Jesus Christ, but that does not undercut the significance of the divine indissoluble oneness by virtue of a christological and trinitarian notion of space. For Torrance, the one God embraces the creaturely others in his infinite, indivisible and comprehensive oneness.
Balancing inclusion and exclusion among Somali migrants in Germany
Authors: Hoehne Markus Virgil , Scharrer Tabea
Published: May 2021

We discuss the balancing acts of inclusion and exclusion by analysing how Somali migrants in Germany attempt to manoeuvre between various norms, individual interests and various social networks. Building on Glick Schiller and Caglar (2016), whose work on urban sociabilities emphasizes social relations in which people act as equals, we argue that ethnic (self‐)identification is important as it serves as a basis for boundary‐making and for bonding within and bridging and linking between groups. Thus, a focus on sociability and ethnic identification (as a category of praxis) can, in some cases, go hand in hand. Moreover, we argue that inclusion into local Somali communities, which is often discussed in public discourse as leading to exclusion from German society, helps to establish connections. Simultaneously, exclusion through racism can lead to (self‐)isolation of Somalis, but also places pressure on younger Somalis in particular to forge alliances with non‐Somali Germans to stabilize their situation. Balancing social inclusion and exclusion among Somali migrants in Germany therefore can have ambiguous and at times paradoxical outcomes.
Changes in characteristics and case‐severity in patients hospitalised with influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 infection between two epidemic waves—England, 2009–2010
Authors: Plumb Ian D. , Harris Ross , Green Helen K. , Ellis Joanna , Baisley Kathy , Pebody Richard G.
Published: May 2021

Background

During 2009‐2010, pandemic influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 virus (pH1N1) infections in England occurred in two epidemic waves. Reasons for a reported increase in case‐severity during the second wave are unclear.

Methods

We analysed hospital‐based surveillance for patients with pH1N1 infections in England during 2009‐2010 and linked national data sets to estimate ethnicity, socio‐economic status and death within 28 days of admission. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess whether changes in demographic, clinical and management characteristics of patients could explain an increase in ICU admission or death, and accounted for missing values using multiple imputation.

Results

During the first wave, 54/960 (6%) hospitalised patients required intensive care and 21/960 (2%) died; during the second wave 143/1420 (10%) required intensive care and 55/1420 (4%) died. In a multivariable model, during the second wave patients were less likely to be from an ethnic minority (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.26‐0.42), have an elevated deprivation score (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68‐0.83), have known comorbidity (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.63‐0.97) or receive antiviral therapy ≤2 days before onset (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56‐0.92). Increased case‐severity during the second wave was not explained by changes in demographic, clinical or management characteristics.

Conclusions

Monitoring changes in patient characteristics could help target interventions during multiple waves of COVID‐19 or a future influenza pandemic. To understand and respond to changes in case‐severity, surveillance is needed that includes additional factors such as admission thresholds and seasonal coinfections.
Changes of fibrinolytic system in thrombolytic resuscitation of pulmonary thromboembolism‐induced cardiac arrest model
Authors: Tong Nan , Li Chunsheng
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study is to explore the changes in the coagulation and fibrinolysis system in an animal model with pulmonary embolism after cardiopulmonary bypass and to provide a theoretical basis for clinical practice. An animal model of cardiac arrest due to pulmonary embolism was established for venous thrombus (10‐15 mL) in the left external jugular vein of 21 pigs. Computed tomography (CT) pulmonary arteriography was performed after the recovery of the underlying state, cardiac arrest state and spontaneous circulation, and then thrombolysis and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator [t‐PA] 50 mg) were performed immediately. The changes of tissue factor (TF), tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), t‐PA and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) in the blood were detected by ELISA. The blood samples were collected immediately, 1, 2, 4 and 6 hours after the recovery of spontaneous circulation. Data from animals that were successfully resuscitated at different time points were compared using a repeated measures one‐way analysis of variance. Seventeen pigs had cardiac arrest after 10 to 15 mL of thrombus injection, and the other four had cardiac arrest after 5 to 8 mL of additional thrombus. Nine pigs survived 6 hours of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. CT pulmonary angiogram showed pulmonary artery obstruction. TF levels were increased compared with basal status, but there was no statistical difference (P > .05). TFPI levels were higher at 1, 2, 4 and 6 hours after recovery of spontaneous circulation compared with basal state (P < .05); t‐PA levels were higher at cardiac arrest, and immediately after recovery of spontaneous circulation compared with basal state. There was a statistical difference in PAI‐1 level at 1, 2, 4 and 6 hours after recovery of spontaneous circulation (P < .05). There was no statistical difference in PAI‐1 level at each stage compared with basal state (P > .05). TFPI has a certain influence on the coagulation and thrombosis regulation of the body, and the increase in fibrinolytic activity has a positive promoting effect on the thrombolysis. It provided the theoretical basis of clinical treatment of thrombotic diseases.
A multicentre, randomised controlled clinical trial evaluating the effects of a novel autologous, heterogeneous skin construct in the treatment of Wagner one diabetic foot ulcers: Interim analysis
Authors: Armstrong David G. , Orgill Dennis P. , Galiano Robert , Glat Paul M. , Didomenico Lawrence , Reyzelman Alexander , Snyder Robert , Li William W. , Carter Marissa , Zelen Charles M.
Published: May 2021

We desired to carefully evaluate a novel autologous heterogeneous skin construct in a prospective randomised clinical trial comparing this to a standard‐of‐care treatment in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). This study reports the interim analysis after the first half of the subjects have been analysed. Fifty patients (25 per group) with Wagner 1 ulcers were enrolled at 13 wound centres in the United States. Twenty‐three subjects underwent the autologous heterogeneous skin construct harvest and application procedure once; two subjects required two applications due to loss of the first application. The primary endpoint was the proportion of wounds closed at 12 weeks. There were significantly more wounds closed in the treatment group (18/25; 72%) vs controls (8/25; 32%) at 12 weeks. The treatment group achieved significantly greater percent area reduction compared to the control group at every prespecified timepoint of 4, 6, 8, and 12 weeks. Thirty‐eight adverse events occurred in 11 subjects (44%) in the treatment group vs 48 in 14 controls (56%), 6 of which required study removal. In the treatment group, there were no serious adverse events related to the index ulcer. Two adverse events (index ulcer cellulitis and bleeding) were possibly related to the autologous heterogeneous skin construct. Data from this planned interim analysis support that application of autologous heterogeneous skin construct may be potentially effective therapy for DFUs and provide supportive data to complete the planned study.
Cold sintering of diatomaceous earth
Authors: Galotta Anna , Giust Enrico , Bortolotti Mauro , Sorarù Gian D. , Sglavo Vincenzo M. , Biesuz Mattia
Published: May 2021

Diatomite, a natural silicate‐based sedimentary rock, was densified by cold sintering at room temperature and 150°C under various pressures (100, 200, and 300 MPa) and using different NaOH water solutions (0–3 M). The relative density of cold sintered diatomite can be as high as 90%, a condition that can be achieved by conventional firing only at 1200–1300°C. The cold sintered materials maintain the same mineralogical composition of the starting powder (quartz, glass, and illite) and are constituted by well‐deformed and flattened grains oriented orthogonally to the applied pressure. Conversely, an evident phase evolution takes place upon conventional firing with the formation of cristobalite and mullite. The bending strength of cold sintered artifacts can exceed 40 MPa and increases to ≈80 MPa after post‐annealing at 800°C, such mechanical strength is much larger than that of conventionally pressed samples sintered at 800°C, which is only ≈1 MPa.
Decision aids for prenatal testing: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yu Lin , Yang Shu , Zhang Chunmiao , Guo Pingping , Zhang Xuehui , Xu Mengmeng , Tian Qi , Cui Xuan , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2021

Aims

To analyse the effect of decision aids (DAs) used by pregnant women on prenatal testing decisions.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Data resources

We searched Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Library ending October 2020.

Review methods

Papers were selected for analysis in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The meta‐analysis was carried out using Review Manager 5.3 software. The quality of the studies was assessed using the risk of bias tool recommended by the Cochrane Handbook. The result is knowledge, decision conflict, anxiety and other secondary outcomes.

Results

A total of 18 studies were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis. Comprehensive analysis showed that DAs could significantly improve knowledge and decision‐making satisfaction, reduce decision conflict, increase the proportion of women who make informed choice and had no influence on anxiety and decision regret.

Conclusions

This article systematically reviewed the positive effect of DAs on the decision‐making of pregnant women facing prenatal testing. In the future, nurses should be encouraged to develop DAs in accordance with strict standards and apply them to pregnant women of different backgrounds.

Impact

There is a growing consensus that health care should be patient‐centred, and the values and preferences of pregnant women who undergo prenatal testing need to be incorporated into the clinical decision‐making process. This review reports that the use of DAs can increase pregnant women's chances of participating in prenatal testing decisions and may improve the quality of their decision‐making. It also provides information on the role and practice of nurses in promoting evidence‐based prenatal testing for DAs.
Validation study to determine the accuracy of central blood pressure measurement using the SphygmoCor XCEL cuff device in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: De la Torre Hernández Jose M. , Veiga Fernandez Gabriela , Brown Jonathan , Sainz Laso Fermin , Lee Dae‐Hyun , Fradejas Victor , Garcia Camarero Tamara , Elmariah Sammy , Inglessis Ignacio , Zueco Javier , Vazquez de Prada Jose A. , Ben‐Assa Eyal , Edelman Elazer R.
Published: May 2021

Central aortic blood pressure could be helpful in the evaluation of patients with aortic stenosis (AS). The SphygmoCor XCEL device estimates central blood pressure (BP) measurement with its easy‐to‐use, operator‐independent procedure. However, this device has not been properly validated against invasive measurement in patients with severe AS. We evaluated the relationship between cuff‐brachial BP, transfer function‐estimated and invasively measured central aortic pressure in patients with severe AS before and after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Agreement between techniques was analyzed and, according to the ARTERY Society recommendations, the minimum acceptable error was a mean difference ± SD ≤5 ± ≤8 mm Hg. A total of 94 patients with AS undergoing TAVR had simultaneous non‐invasive and invasive measurements of central BP before and after the procedure. Before TAVR central systolic BP was in average slightly underestimated, though with wide variability, when using the default calibration of brachial‐cuff SBP (mean difference ± SD, −3 ± 15 mm Hg), and after TAVR the degree of underestimation increased (mean difference ± SD, −9 ± 13 mm Hg). The agreement tended to improve for those patients with low aortic gradient stenosis compared to those with high gradient at baseline (mean difference ± SD, −2 ± 11 mm Hg vs. −4 ± 17, respectively, p = .3). The cuff‐brachial systolic BP yielded numerically lower degree of agreement and weaker correlation with invasive measurements than SphygmoCor XCEL. In patients with severe AS the SphygmoCor XCEL cuff device, despite showing strong correlation, does not meet the ARTERY Society accuracy criteria for non‐invasive measurement of central SBP.
Extracellular Vesicles in chondrogenesis and Cartilage regeneration
Authors: Song Hong , Zhao Jiasong , Cheng Jun , Feng Zhijie , Wang Jianhua , Momtazi‐Borojeni Amir Abbas , Liang Yimin
Published: May 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), mainly exosomes and microvesicles, are bilayer lipids containing biologically active information, including nucleic acids and proteins. They are involved in cell communication and signalling, mediating many biological functions including cell growth, migration and proliferation. Recently, EVs have received great attention in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Many in vivo and in vitro studies have attempted to evaluate the chondrogenesis potential of these microstructures and their roles in cartilage regeneration. EVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or chondrocytes have been found to induce chondrocyte proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells in vitro. Preclinical studies have shown that exosomes derived from MSCs have promising results in cartilage repair and in cell‐free therapy of osteoarthritis. This review will focus on the in vitro and in vivo chondrogenesis and cartilage regeneration of EVs as well as their potential in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
A novel lncRNA promotes myogenesis of bovine skeletal muscle satellite cells via PFN1‐RhoA/Rac1
Authors: Chen Mingming , Zhang Linlin , Guo Yiwen , Liu Xinfeng , Song Yingshen , Li Xin , Ding Xiangbin , Guo Hong
Published: May 2021

Myogenesis, the process of skeletal muscle formation, is a highly coordinated multistep biological process. Accumulating evidence suggests that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as a gatekeeper in myogenesis. Up to now, most studies on muscle development‐related lncRNAs are mainly focussed on humans and mice. In this study, a novel muscle highly expressed lncRNA, named lnc23, localized in nucleus, was found differentially expressed in different stages of embryonic development and myogenic differentiation. The knockdown and over‐expression experiments showed that lnc23 positively regulated the myogenic differentiation of bovine skeletal muscle satellite cells. Then, TMT 10‐plex labelling quantitative proteomics was performed to screen the potentially regulatory proteins of lnc23. Results indicated that lnc23 was involved in the key processes of myogenic differentiation such as cell fusion, further demonstrated that down‐regulation of lnc23 may inhibit myogenic differentiation by reducing signal transduction and cell fusion among cells. Furthermore, RNA pulldown/LC‐MS and RIP experiment illustrated that PFN1 was a binding protein of lnc23. Further, we also found that lnc23 positively regulated the protein expression of RhoA and Rac1, and PFN1 may negatively regulate myogenic differentiation and the expression of its interacting proteins RhoA and Rac1. Hence, we support that lnc23 may reduce the inhibiting effect of PFN1 on RhoA and Rac1 by binding to PFN1, thereby promoting myogenic differentiation. In short, the novel identified lnc23 promotes myogenesis of bovine skeletal muscle satellite cells via PFN1‐RhoA/Rac1.
Therapeutic effect of SP‐8356 on pulmonary embolism‐associated cardiac injury is mediated by its ability to suppress apoptosis and inflammation
Authors: Zhou Jia , Liu Kai , Feng Cheng , Peng Zhengliang , Luo Wei
Published: May 2021

The cyclophilin A–CD147 interaction has been reported to be one of the most potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of acute pulmonary embolism. The signalling of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) was also reported in the pathogenesis of cardiac injury. Since SP‐8356 is regarded as a novel Inhibitor of CD147‐Cyclophilin, the study aimed to evaluate potential therapeutic effects of SP‐8356 for pulmonary embolism‐associated cardiac injury. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were carried out to analyse the expression of MMP‐9, ERK1/2, phosphorylated ERK1/2 (p‐ERK1/2), P65, p‐P65, and CyA protein in PE cell and rat models under distinct conditions. Flow cytometry and TUNEL were carried out to examine the apoptosis of primary rat myocardiocytes and PE rat models under distinct conditions. CyA treatment on primary rat myocardiocytes remarkably raised the expression of MMP‐9, p‐ERK1/2 and p‐P65 protein expression; SP8536 treatment effectively restored the CyA‐induced up‐regulation of MMP‐9, p‐ERK1/2 and p‐P65 protein expression in primary rat myocardiocytes. Besides, flow cytometry analysis showed that SP8536 remarkably suppressed the CyA‐induced elevation of cell apoptosis rate of primary rat myocardiocytes. Moreover, SP8536 notably diminished the abnormal elevation of right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), Troponin I and Myeloperoxidase activity in PE rat models. Furthermore, SP‐8536 significantly restored the up‐regulation of MMP‐9, p‐ERK1/2, p‐P65, CyA protein and the cellular apoptosis in the PE rat model. Our study validated that SP‐8356 could suppress cell apoptosis and inflammatory response via down‐regulating the highly expressed MMP‐9, p‐ERK1/2, and p‐P65 and MMP‐9 in PE‐associated cardiac injury in a dose‐dependent manner.
HIF‐1α is necessary for activation and tumour‐promotion effect of cancer‐associated fibroblasts in lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Yana , Bian Yangyang , Wang Yuan , Wang Yuanyuan , Duan Xixi , Han Yuning , Zhang Lijing , Wang Fei , Gu Zhuoyu , Qin Zhihai
Published: May 2021

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) activation is crucial for the establishment of a tumour promoting microenvironment, but our understanding of CAFs activation is still limited. In this study, we found that hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) was highly expressed in CAFs of human lung cancer tissues and mouse spontaneous lung tumour. Accordingly, enhancing the expression of HIF‐1α in fibroblasts via hypoxia induced the conversion of normal fibroblasts into CAFs. HIF‐1α‐specific inhibitor or HIF‐1α knockout (KO) significantly attenuated CAFs activation, which was manifested by the decreased expression of COL1A2 and α‐SMA. In vivo, during tumour formation, the expression of Ki‐67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the tumour tissue with HIF‐1α KO fibroblasts was significantly lower than that of normal fibroblasts. Moreover, HIF‐1α in fibroblasts could activate the NF‐κB signalling pathway and enhance a subsequent secretion of CCL5, thus promoting the tumour growth. In conclusion, our results suggest that HIF‐1α is essential for the activation and tumour‐promotion function of CAFs in lung cancer (LC). And targeting HIF‐1α expression on CAFs may be a promising strategy for LC therapy.
Development and validation of glycolysis‐related prognostic score for prediction of prognosis and chemosensitivity of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xiu‐Ping , Chen Qinjunjie , Liu Qu , Wang Yang , Wang Fei , Zhao Zhi‐Ming , Zhao Guo‐Dong , Lau Wan Yee , Gao Yu‐Zhen , Liu Rong
Published: May 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal malignancy with aggressive biological behaviour. Its rapid proliferation and tumour growth require reprogramming of glucose metabolism or the Warburg effect. However, the association between glycolysis‐related genes with clinical features and prognosis of PDAC is still unknown. Here, we used the meta‐analysis to correlate the hazard ratios (HR) of 106 glycolysis genes from MSigDB by the cox proportional hazards regression analysis in 6 clinical data sets of PDAC patients to form a training cohort, and a single group of PDAC patients from the TCGA, ICGC, Arrayexpress and GEO databases to form the validation cohort. Then, a glycolysis‐related prognosis (GRP) score based on 29 glycolysis prognostic genes was established in 757 PDAC patients from the training composite cohort and validated in 267 ICGC‐CA validation cohort (all P < .05). In addition, including PADC, the prognostic value was also confirmed in other 7 out of 30 pan‐cancer cohorts. The GRP score was significantly related to specific metabolism pathways, immune genes and immune cells in the patients with PADC (all P < .05). Finally, by combining with immune cells, the GRP score also well‐predicted the chemosensitivity of patients with PADC in the TCGA cohort (AUC = 0.709). In conclusion, this study developed a GRP score for patients with PDAC in predicting prognosis and chemosensitivity for PDAC.
Bidirectional associations between screen time and children’s externalizing and internalizing behaviors
Authors: Neville Ross D. , McArthur Brae Anne , Eirich Rachel , Lakes Kimberley D. , Madigan Sheri
Published: May 2021

Background

While it has been purported that excessive screen time can lead to behavioral problems, it has also been suggested that children with behavioral dysregulation receive more access to screens to manage problematic behavior. In this study, both temporally stable and longitudinal associations between screen time and externalizing and internalizing behaviors across childhood are examined to directly address this issue of directionality.

Methods

Data are from a prospective cohort of 10,172 Irish children, collected between 2010 and 2018 when children were ages 3, 5, 7, and 9. Children’s screen time (hours/day) and externalizing and internalizing behaviors (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) were assessed via caregiver report. Random‐intercepts cross‐lagged panel models were used to estimate longitudinal bidirectional associations while controlling for temporally stable (i.e., ‘time‐invariant’ or ‘trait‐like’) differences between children.

Results

Temporally stable differences between children were observed for both screen time and behavior problems. Longitudinal trajectories for screen time lacked stability; however, and externalizing and internalizing behaviors stabilized increasingly during later childhood. Greater externalizing and internalizing behaviors at age 3 were directionally associated with increased screen time at age 5. Greater screen time at ages 3 and 5 was directionally associated with increased internalizing behaviors at ages 5 and 7, respectively. More screen time at age 7 was directionally associated with fewer internalizing behaviors at age 9. Screen time was not associated with later externalizing behaviors.

Conclusions

Bidirectional associations between screen time and internalizing behaviors were observed for preschoolers. Directional associations between screen time and internalizing difficulties were observed across childhood. These findings can inform screen use guidelines and family media planning at different ages and stages of development.
First record of a potential neonate tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) at a remote oceanic island in the Eastern Tropical Pacific
Authors: Cambra Marta , Madrigal‐Mora Sergio , Chinchilla Isaac , Golfín‐Duarte Geiner , Lowe Christopher G. , Espinoza Mario
Published: May 2021

Tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) play an important ecological role as top predators, yet knowledge of their reproductive ecology is scarce. Here, the authors report the first observation of a potential neonate G. cuvier at Cocos Island, a predator‐dominated oceanic island in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). The individual was detected using baited remote underwater video stations (BRUVS). The cameras also detected female individuals potentially pregnant, suggesting that parturition may take place at or near the island. Nonetheless, it is still unclear if the presence of a single neonate is an isolated event or evidence that the species is using the island for reproduction.
Effect of electron beam irradiation on physicochemical properties of corn starch and improvement of enzymatic saccharification of corn starch at high concentration (45%)
Authors: Yu Yali , Feng Mengmeng , Wang Qi , Liu Mingyuan , Gao Feng , Lin Songyi
Published: May 2021

Cornstarch was irradiated under different doses of electron beam radiation (0–5.4 kGy), and the physicochemical properties of starch were analyzed. The dextrose equivalent (DE) values, which is a representative indicator of saccharification in the sugar production process, was measured after the EBI pre‐treated cornstarch at high concentration (45%, wt/wt) was hydrolyzed by thermostable α‐amylase and glucoamylase. The reducing sugar content of the cornstarch markedly increased with increasing irradiation dose. In addition, reduced transmittance, flexural vibration of chemical bond, the viscosity, and the relative crystallinity decreased with increasing irradiation dose. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the penetrating pinholes and pits were observed on the surface of irradiated cornstarch granules. After being hydrolyzed by thermostable α‐amylase and glucoamylase, slurry of cornstarch EBI pre‐treated at dose of 4.32 and 5.4 kGy exhibited the low viscosity values and high dextrose equivalent (DE) values. The resulting low viscosity values and high dextrose equivalent (DE) values slurry from EBI pre‐treated cornstarch have potential for use in syrup industry.

Practical Applications

The slurry made from EBI pre‐treated cornstarch at the concentration of 45% (wt/wt)exhibited a rather low viscosity values and high dextrose equivalent (DE) values compared with that of the slurry (45% wt/wt)made from the non‐EBI pre‐treated cornstarch. Therefore, the use of starch modified by electron beam irradiation treatment could lead to reduce corn syrup processing costs. Corn syrup is an important raw material of bakery industry. The reduction of its production cost is of great significance for stabilizing the market price of bakery food and promoting the coordinated development of bakery industry.
Cultivar identification of sweet cherries based on texture parameters determined using image analysis
Authors: Ropelewska Ewa , Popińska Wioletta , Sabanci Kadir , Aslan Muhammet Fatih
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to develop discriminative models for distinguishing different cultivars of whole sweet cherries based on the texture parameters determined using image analysis. The whole fruit images of “Büttner's Red,” “Kordia,” and “Lapins” were acquired using a digital camera. The discriminative models were built for textures selected from individual color channels R, G, B, L, a, b, X, Y, and Z and color spaces CIE RGB (R—red, B—blue, G—green), CIE Lab (L*—lightness from black to white, a*—green and red, b*—blue and yellow), CIE XYZ (Y—lightness, X and Z—components of color information). The models were developed for texture sets without division and subsets of textures with division into those calculated based on the histogram, co‐occurrence matrix, run‐length matrix, autoregressive model, gradient map. The total accuracy reached 100% for the models built based on sets of textures without division selected from color channels R and X and color spaces RGB, Lab, and XYZ. In the case of divided sets of textures, the correctness of 100% was obtained for textures selected from histogram and co‐occurrence matrix for color space Lab. For color channels, the highest accuracy was equal to 97% for the model built based on the selected textures calculated based on the histogram for color channel L. The significance of this study is great for practical applications. The correct identification of sweet cherry cultivar using the discriminative models can be important for the selection of fruits with the desired properties for consumption and processing.

Practical applications

The research involved the use of a procedure that allows the classification of sweet cherries in a non‐destructive, objective, and inexpensive manner. The obtained results were very satisfactory and allowed for the complete discrimination of sweet cherry cultivars based on texture parameters of the whole fruit. The developed models may be used in practice for cultivar identification of sweet cherries and detection of falsification or confirmation of authenticity. It will avoid the mixing of different cultivars with different properties intended for use and processing.
Mealtime and patient factors associated with meal completion in hospitalised older patients: An exploratory observation study
Authors: Naughton Corina , Simon Rachel , White T. J. , de Foubert Marguerite , Cummins Helen , Dahly Darren
Published: May 2021

Aims and Objectives

To examine mealtime and patient factors associated with meal completion among hospitalised older patients. We also considered contextual factors such as staffing levels and ward communication.

Background

Sub‐optimum nutrition is a modifiable risk factor for hospital associated decline (HAD) in older patients. Yet, the quality of mealtime experiences can be overlooked within ward routinised practice.

Design

Cross sectional, descriptive observation study.

Methods

We undertook structured observation of mealtimes examining patient positioning, mealtime set‐up and feeding assistance. The outcome was meal completion categorised as 0, 25%, 50%, 75% or 100%. Data were collected on patient characteristics and ward context. We used mixed‐effects ordinal regression models to examine patient and mealtime factors associated with higher meal completion producing odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The study was reported as per STROBE guidelines.

Results

We included 60 patients with a median age of 82 years (IQR 76–87) and clinical frailty score of 5 IQR (4–6). Of the 279 meals, 51% were eaten completely, 6% three quarters, 15% half, 18% a quarter and 10% were not eaten at all. Mealtime predictors with a weak association with less‐meal completion were requiring assistance, special diets, lying in bed, and red tray (indicator of nutrition risk), but were not statistically significant. Significant patient‐level factors were higher values for frailty (OR 0.34 [0.11–1.04]) and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (OR 0.22 [0.08–0.62]). The average nurse‐to‐patient ratio was 1:5.5.

Conclusion

Patient factors were the strongest predictors for meal completion, but mealtime factors had a subtle influence. The nursing teams' capacity to prioritise mealtimes above competing demands is important as part of a comprehensive nutrition strategy.

Relevance to clinical practise

Nurses are central to optimising nutrition for frail older patients. It requires ward leadership to instil a culture of prioritising assisted mealtimes, improved communication, greater autonomy to tailor nutrition strategies and safe staffing levels.
Inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis: modernizing the multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Hedin C.R.H. , Sonkoly E. , Eberhardson M. , Ståhle M.
Published: May 2021

Psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are immune‐mediated diseases occurring in barrier organs whose main task is to protect the organism from attack. These disorders are highly prevalent especially in northern Europe where psoriasis has a prevalence of around 3–4% and IBD around 0.3%. The prevalence of IBD in North America has been estimated at around 0.4%. The total incidence rates in northern Europe have been estimated at around 6 for Crohn’s disease and 11 for ulcerative colitis per 100 000 person‐years, compared with an incidence rate of around 280 per 100 000 person‐years for psoriasis. Both diseases are less common in countries with a lower index of development. The rise in IBD appears to occur as populations adopt a westernized lifestyle, whereas psoriasis seems more stable and prevalence differences may derive more from variation in genetic susceptibility. The gut microbiota is clearly an important driver of IBD pathogenesis; in psoriasis, changes in gut and skin microbiota have been reported, but it is less clear whether and how these changes contribute to the pathogenesis. Large studies show that most identified genes are involved in the immune system. However, psoriasis and IBD are highly heterogeneous diseases and there is a need for more precise and deeper phenotyping to identify specific subgroups and their genetic, epigenetic and molecular signatures. Epigenetic modifications of DNA such as histone modifications, noncoding RNA effects on transcription and translation and DNA methylation are increasingly recognized as the mechanism underpinning much of the gene–environment interaction in the pathogenesis of both IBD and psoriasis. Our understanding of underlying pathogenetic mechanisms has deepened fundamentally over the past decades developing hand in hand with novel therapies targeting pathways and proinflammatory cytokines incriminated in disease. There is not only substantial overlap between psoriasis and IBD, but also there are differences with implication for therapy. In psoriasis, drugs targeting interleukin‐23 and interleukin‐17 have shown superior efficacy compared with anti‐TNFs, whilst in IBD, drugs targeting interleukin‐17 may be less beneficial. The therapeutic toolbox for psoriasis is impressive and is enlarging also for IBD. Still, there are unmet needs reflecting the heterogeneity of both diseases and there is a need for closer molecular diagnostics to allow for the development of precise therapeutics.
3D Virtual Patient Representation for Guiding a Maxillary Overdenture Fabrication: A Dental Technique
Authors: Pérez‐Giugovaz Marcelo Gabriel , Park So Hyeon , Revilla‐León Marta
Published: May 2021

This report describes a technique to obtain a 3D virtual representation of a maxillary edentulous patient guided by an additively manufactured intraoral scan body. The intraoral scan body incorporated a custom tray and occlusion rim which facilitated the acquiring of a digital definitive cast, maxillary occlusion rim position, interocclusal registration, and guided the integration of the facial scans. The technique simplified the design and manufacturing of the maxillary overdenture.